Date of Posting: 2016/11/11 (Fri) 11:02 PM
Subject: Re: Passport Copy
Dear
We have demonstrated some level of leniency, and amazingly, very kind to you. Please donot push our patience to the extreme. You assuredBNP PARIBASthat everything will be completed by last week. The fund will notcontinue to stay in the treasury of the federal Reserve Bank endlessly due to your inability to substantiate your claim. It may interest you to know that MONEY LUANDARY charges will be initiated against you in few days from today The case will be referred to the Justice Department as soon as Homeland security is through with the final background check on your organization and will possibly review paper work with theFederal Airport Authority of Nigeriasoon.
Miles Sanders
If you received a similar letter, please ignore it. Do not answer it. If you do, you will end up on more of the mailing lists used by the criminals behind this fraud. Read more....
WASHINGTON During his triumphant presidential campaign, Donald Trump renounced Republican orthodoxy on a Social Security overhaul.
Were not going to hurt the people who have been paying into Social Security their whole life, Trump declared, calling the payment of promised benefits honoring a deal.
But the man heading the Trump transition teams Social Security effort? Michael Korbey, a former lobbyist who has spent much of his career advocating for cutting and privatizing the program.
Its a failed system, broken and bankrupt, Korbey said as a lobbyist in the mid-1990s. Korbey acknowledged that some of the changes his group backed would hurt retirees, but our constituents arent just senior citizens, he told a newspaper in 1996. A decade later, as a senior adviser to the Social Security Administration, Korbey was an advocate for the George W. Bush administrations failed attempt to privatize Social Security.
Korbey is just one example of apparent discord between Trumps populist economic platform and the people who have been put in charge of planning to carry it out. While there are some true Washington outsiders on the team such as Dan DiMicco, a former steel industry executive who is Trumps transition head for the office of U.S. Trade Representative many of the players are familiar from the Republican economic establishment. The mix indicates a strong leaning toward rolling back much of the Obama administrations post-financial collapse changes, and a general posture toward deregulation.
The team will not necessarily carry over into the Trump administration though members of past transition teams often have. Instead, they are in charge of putting together hiring recommendations, working with outgoing appointees and laying the groundwork for administrations opening months.
Bill Walton, one of the two people overseeing the economic transition effort, is the former chief executive for Allied Capital, a financial firm that was sold after nearly failing during the financial crisis. He is both a trustee for the Heritage Foundation and a senior fellow at another conservative organization, the Discovery Institute.
David Malpass, who is overseeing both the Treasury Department staffing and part of the broader economic issues portfolio, was Bear Stearns chief economist in the years leading up to its collapse. In August 2007, as U.S. economic growth ground to a halt and the debt markets shuddered, he wrote a Wall Street Journal op-ed titled Dont Panic About the Credit Market.
Housing and debt markets are not that big a part of the U.S. economy, or of job creation, the piece declared, predicting continued economic growth and dismissing concerns that recent growth had been dependent on the housing bubble.
Eight months later, Bear Stearns collapsed, unable to withstand the toxic combination of overheated home prices and shoddily assembled debt that Malpass dismissed. But Malpass landed on his feet, founding a consulting firm called Encima Partners.
Since then, hes faulted both the Federal Reserves monetary response to the financial crisis and regulations intended to prevent future such calamities.
In a 2010 National Review article titled Chris Dodds Big, Misguided Bill, Malpass argued against the value of creating the consumer financial protection bureau, writing that the Obama administration should streamline and concentrate existing consumer protection regulators, a step that he said would result in a reduction of government jobs.
In Paul Atkins, Trump has found a leading proponent of the theory that government should get out of the financial industrys way.
Appointed to the Securities and Exchange commission in July 2002 at the height of the eras corporate accounting scandals, he was considered the most conservative member of the SEC during his tenure. Atkins objected to stiff penalties imposed on companies for allegedly fraudulent conduct, contending that they dont effectively deter crime. And in 2005, he defended the practice of backdating stock options a practice in which executives paid themselves for fictitious outperformance in their companies stocks. Numerous executives went to jail for those activities but Atkins caused a stir by saying he found nothing objectionable about it.
In the years that led up to the financial crisis, Atkins warned of dangers posed by enacting regulations that supplant the markets judgment. Among the initiatives he successfully backed at the SEC was a loosening of leverage restrictions on investment banks, a step that allowed firms like Bear Stearns and Lehman brothers to borrow more money and invest it in mortgage-backed securities.
Atkins resigned in August of 2008, and now runs a financial services industry consulting firm. But he has maintained his vigorously pro-market stance.
We all know that overregulation can kill the goose that laid the golden egg, he said in a 2012 speech opposing the regulation of money market funds.
Up until recently white porcelain plates have been the standard in most higher-end eating establishments. Chefs used these white spaces as open canvases for presenting their artistry across a blank page.
Over the last few years, however, there has been a distinct shift toward more ceramic creations, hand-formed dinnerware made in various shapes and colors. Part of this trend comes from innovative Napa Valley restaurants, such as Meadowood, that utilize a few select local artisan pottery-makers, including NBC Pottery in Angwin.
Ceramists Nikki and William Callnan [owners of NBC Pottery] came to visit us at the restaurant one day, having heard about our interest in collaborating with artisans in the valley, wrote three-star-Michelin Chef Christopher Kostow in his A New Napa Cuisine cookbook.
On that first visit they carried boxes dirtied with dried clay and overflowing with newspaper packing material. Seeing their brown earth bowl on our dining table, a compelling juxtaposition between linen and stone, completely upended my conception of elegance. We have been a different restaurant ever since.
That a bowl could influence the direction of one of the top-rated restaurants in the world is certainly a statement about the culinary ecosystem of place and the importance of not only the eating establishment itself but also all those other elements that go into making the meal: the wine, food and its farmers, the many hands that prepare, plate and present the food.
We are thrilled to have been working with the team at Meadowood for a while now, said Nikki Ballere Callnan, ceramic artist, art educator and co-owner of NBC Pottery. I have been making ceramics for over 23 years, and my motto has always been to keep one hand in the dirt.
Although they met at Sierra Nevada College, studying ceramic and art, the Callnans had moved to Massachusetts to continue school and for work, eventually returning to the Napa Valley in part to work with local master ceramic artist Richard Carter, whose work adorns many collections around the world, including the di Rosa in Carneros.
But in 2011, the year NBC started working with Meadowood, the Callnans were struggling to balance their passion for making ceramics with the economic realities of starting a family. Nikki had gone back to graduate school and Will was helping keep things afloat. But then their situation changed.
We got an email from Meadowood, Nikki said. They said they liked our work and wanted to check it out.
We really believed that our work would fit in so well with what they were doing up there, Will said. We had a ceramist friend that had been working with them for years, and sometimes he called us up and asked if he could use our kiln, saying, The chef needs this right now, and the work was similar to the kind of stuff we were doing, too.
When they finally met Kostow at Meadowood they felt even more synergy, so they got right to work.
We heard Christophers vision, and what he wanted was a perfect fit with our work, Nikki said. Hed say, I want to do a dish like this, and then wed say, Sure, we can do that.
It was exciting, fun and collaborative to work with them, Will said. And then we started working with Nathaniel a lot, too, which is how we came up with the coffee service. So we were in the back of the house (plates and bowls) and in the front of the house (coffee service), which was amazing.
I have been working with Will and Nikki on our coffee service, which is unique to anything else people have seen in the Napa Valley, said Meadowoods front-of-the-house director, Nathaniel Dorn. Were also excited for people to see what we have planned for the Charter Oak when it opens early next year.
Dorn was referring to his and Kostows yet-to-open new restaurant, the Charter Oak, a less-formal dining establishment than Meadowood that will open sometime in 2017 in what was the old Tra Vigna in downtown St. Helena.
NBC Pottery has been one of the local artisans we have collaborated with in bringing our concepts and designs to fruition, Dorn said. Not only do they produce great work, but its been meaningful to have a partnership with two individuals who are invested in our community, specifically with their involvement in Nimbus.
Nimbus Arts is a community-owned nonprofit organization founded in 2005 with the mission of giving the Napa Valley community access to art. In addition to their on-site classes and camps, open studios and lectures they offer free public events, community service programs, classes in public and private schools, and collaborative art projects throughout Napa County. Both Nikki and Will have been involved as instructors and contributors to Nimbus since its inception.
Nikki was one of the first artists I hired to teach at Nimbus, with Will coming on shortly after, said Jamie Graff, executive director and co-founder of Nimbus Arts. Their passion and dedication, growing their vision as artists, their beautifully designed ceramics and the love they pour into it all over the years has been so inspiring to watch. When you have the opportunity to work with the same group of artists for over 10 years its so exciting to see their ideas, artistry and lives grow and touch so many people.
It is gratifying to see our work having an impact, Will said. We have been working hard for decades, sometimes not knowing we were on the right track. But we just kept going, believing that someday we might find our place. Now I think weve found it.
NBC will be holding its annual Holiday Studio sale on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 3 and 4, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at their studio in Angwin, where theyll have all their inventory on sale, along with food and drinks. The event will also include live music by flamenco guitarist Chris Vorland.
More information can be found on the NBC Pottery website at www.nbcpottery.com.
Seeing their brown earth bowl on our dining table, a compelling juxtaposition between linen and stone, completely upended my conception of elegance. We have been a different restaurant ever since. Christopher Kostow, A New Napa Cuisine
Napa County caregivers must have permits
In Napa County, all individuals providing care for compensation are required to undergo a background check and obtain a permit. The regulations governing these permits were slightly changed with Ordinance #1406, which went into effect on Jan. 1. You can apply for a permit, check a caregivers permit status, or obtain further information at NapaCaregivers.org.
Napa County seeks landlord for 100-day housing challenge
Napa County seeks landlords and property owners to house as many people as possible during the 100-day Rapid Rehousing Challenge a national campaign to more effectively use existing resources to advance the goal of ending homelessness.
Rapid Rehousing is for individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness (residing in emergency shelters or on the street) and need temporary assistance in order to obtain housing and retain it. The two key elements to making this challenge successful are landlord engagement and comprehensive case management.
In Napa County, hundreds are experiencing homelessness or on the verge of it every day. So far this year, the South Napa Shelter has served 234 adults. The Samaritan shelter has served 43 adults and 49 homeless children.
The Napa County Continuum of Care, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), has identified 12 local veterans eligible to receive HUD-VASH vouchers. HUD-VASH is a collaborative program, which combines housing vouches with VA supportive services to help veterans who are homeless and their families find and sustain permanent housing. Ten Napa County veterans need to find housing before their vouchers expire.
Napa County needs landlords and property owners to work together to find the affordable units so desperately needed. If you have a rental property, consider participating in this program and help community members overcome the challenges of homelessness and lead independent lives. For more information, call Kelsey Swan at (707) 253-4217.
For those seeking housing, the first step is to go to the Hope Resource Center, 1304 4th St., in Napa or call (707) 259-8133. The center is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.
Unofficial election results available online
Napa County election results are available at countyofnapa.org/electionresults. The final count is expected by Dec. 2, according to the elections division.
Have a question? Use our website chat feature
Napa Countys website, CountyofNapa.org, has a chat function that allows users to ask questions online about programs and services countywide. If the button on the right-hand side is blue, someone is available to answer your question. If the button is gray, leave us a message, and well get back to you shortly.
Napa County Library renovations underway
Pardon our dust at the Napa County Librarys downtown Napa location, 580 Coombs St., as we work on a $4.4 million design and construction project. The renovations will focus on Childrens Area updates, new ADA/unisex restrooms, the Circulation Area including adding a modernized automated handling system and garage conversion to improve delivery and return of materials. You might hear some drilling, but were still open for business throughout the duration of construction. For more information, visit countyofnapa.org/library or follow us on Facebook (Napa County Library) or Twitter (@napalibraries).
Vet Connect: New Napa County Service for Veterans
Have you served in the military? You might be eligible for programs and resources you didnt even know existed. Napa County Vet Connect puts veterans in touch with local resources and services at no cost the second Thursday of every month from 9 a.m. to noon at 650 Imperial Way. Please bring your DD214 if available. Call Patrick Jolly 253-6072 for more information.
Link+ is available at the Napa County Library
Patron initiated Link+ is here! Now you can search unique titles in more than 50 libraries including universities in California, Nevada, and Arizona. Borrowing materials through Link+ is free. Items should be received in five to seven days. For more information, visit our website at napalibrary.org or contact Assistant Director Anthony Halstead at Anthony.Halstead@countyofnapa.org.
Sign up for Nixle
Get safety and community messages straight to your mobile phone by joining Nixle, the countys emergency mass communications system. Text your zip code to 888777 to receive updates during storms, wildfires and other emergencies.
Want to work for us?
Come work for us! You can apply online for any county job. Visit http://www.countyofnapa.org/jobs/ or call 253-4303 for more information.
Get involved join a Napa County committee or commission
Do you want to provide direct input to the Napa County Board of Supervisors and other county leaders? Apply for one of the countys advisory committees, commissions and boards. Put your knowledge, energy and passion to work for your community. If you need assistance with a committee or commission application, please contact Barbara Fultz at 253-4595 or visit us online at countyofnapa.org/ceo/committeesandcommissions.
Follow Napa County on social media
Become a fan of the Napa County, California Facebook page, follow us on Twitter @countyofnapa and check us out on countyofnapa.org to stay updated on everything Napa County. Information is posted daily to help connect you with resources and answer questions.
Barbara Pope of Napa likes Costco. Really, really likes Costco.
So much so that Pope decided to pack up her 2010 Honda Odyssey minivan and drive solo across the country to visit Costcos in every state that has one.
I love it, Pope said of shopping at Costco warehouse clubs.
Unlike what most people think, each Costco is different, Pope said. Im panning for gold, she said. I see all kinds of interesting things in the pan but Im looking for that nugget or two thats different from anything else.
Drew Sakuma, a Costco Regional vice president, said this is the first time hes heard of such a Costco odyssey.
However, hes not too surprised. People that have the Costco craze tend to visit Costcos wherever they are, he said.
Shes just one of many members that feel excited about shopping at Costco, he said.
If I had the time I would love to do the same thing.
This was a good time to hit the road, said Pope, age 47. She and her husband were nearing the end of a home remodel project and she was at a crossroads in her event planning business. Her husband, who works in appliance sales in St. Helena, supported the idea, as did her friends, she said.
There was this excitement that I didnt expect at all, she said.
Pope said that a higher power also motivated her.
Im a woman of faith, said Pope. While at first even she thought her idea was a bit ridiculous, I believe God was telling me to do this cross-country Costco road trip. Over time, this trip started taking on a life of its own.
Calling her journey My Costco Odyssey, Pope is documenting her trip on a new blog, Facebook page and other social media.
The idea to start the road trip started with a visit to see her brother, who had recently bought a home in Indiana. As she planned to drive east, Pope figured she could stop at Costco stores along the way for gas and check out what each one offered.
Because Napa doesnt yet have its own Costco, Pope said she has always made it a point to stop at other Costcos when shes out of town to see what each one offers. I could be missing out on something really interesting.
Depending on an areas demographics, Costco sells different kinds of ethnic foods, which brings back memories of her childhood growing up in a multicultural area on the south side of Chicago. These ethnic selections remind her a little bit of home, she said.
She left Napa on Sept. 28. As of last week Pope had traveled more than 6,000 miles and visited more than 36 Costco stores in 19 states. This is just the tip of the Costco iceberg. As of Mon. Nov. 14, there are 499 Costcos in 44 states in the United States.
There have been so many cool things that have happened along the way, said Pope from a stop in Ohio.
For one, shes met some Costco executives, including CEO Craig Jelinek.
He was super friendly, she said. Jelinek said he thought her odyssey was a great idea and joked that maybe he would join me. I told him there was room in my van, she said.
Shes been invited to a number of Costco grand openings and other special events.
Pope said the biggest surprise from her trip is just how cool people are. Shes been invited to stay in locals homes and to join them on other outings.
The kindness and support of strangers has been unexpected, said Pope.
The random people that Ive been meeting along the way (outside of Costco) who encourage me by laughing with me at the seeming absurdity of a venture like this and embrace my excitement about it by taking it as their own Im amazed by this camaraderie.
To stay organized, Pope said she goes to each Costco with her own version of a visit worksheet. First, she always makes sure to take a selfie at the store. Pope then notes how easy the store was to find, the range services offered (i.e. optometry, pharmacy, gas, tires, car wash, photo, hearing aids), the selection of local foods, organic food selection and any special local distinctions.
The clothing sold at each Costco is one big difference, she immediately noticed. For example, the boots that Costco sells in California are much more fashion oriented and less weather functional than those sold in cold weather states.
In Montana, they have real snow boots, she said. Those Costcos sell much more cold weather gear and specific outdoor equipment like bear resistant coolers and hunting supplies.
Pope said she doesnt have a set budget for her trip, but Im trying to do things as inexpensively as possible, staying with friends or family and occasionally using Airbnb.
By taking the rear seats out of her van, she fit a twin mattress into her vehicle. Parking at Walmarts overnight, she can sleep in her car, she said.
Pope said the most unusual thing shes seen for sale was an ice fishing auger. The largest Costco shes visited was in Salt Lake City.
Its the worlds largest Costco and I did not know that until I got there, she said. But I can believe it. I walked over 2.5 miles that day.
Pope said her favorite Costco treat are blueberries and blackberries. I love berries and they always have the best price.
When asked about the best deal that Costco offers, Pope said that depends on the shopper.
I think the best deal is always the deal you find there, Pope said. Thats what it comes down to whats most important to you.
Her larger goal is to earn income as a writer, said Pope.
Hopefully my blog will get sponsors and advertisers so I can generate the income and stay home and do some writing.
She might also be able to afford to do an international trip and visit Costcos in other states like Hawaii and Alaska.
Im going to go with this, she said.
RIO VISTA Police are asking for the publics help to identify a man who was found Sunday morning in Rio Vista, appearing lost and unable to speak.
Around 11:10 a.m. Sunday, officers responded to a report of a person in distress near St. Francis and Laurel ways, according to police.
There, officers found the man carrying a blanket and appearing extremely thin, police said.
The man was apparently unable to explain who he is or where he is from. A resident in the neighborhood believed he lives in the area with his family, who may not realize that he has gone missing, according to police.
Anyone with information about the mans identity is asked to call Rio Vista police at (707) 374-2300.
If you have never heard the term cultural relativism before, rest assured you are not alone. One really has to work hard to keep up with the new words and phrases that have popped up in the last few years, particularly on social media. Cultural relativism can be defined by this type of statement: Womens wearing of veils in certain Arab countries is just part of their culture and, therefore, we should not criticize them. It is also reflected in the comment made by Secretary of State John Kerry when asked about whether our ally, Saudi Arabia , should allow women to drive. He responded that this decision was best left to Saudi Arabia , thus refusing to take a stand for the rights of women.
But Secretary Kerry and cultural relativists are making a serious mistake for one simple reason. Women dont have a choice in these countries to decide for themselves whether they wear veils or whether can drive. It is this issue of choice that underlies all basic human rights and should not be construed as simply a difference in cultural norms. Mona Eltahawy , in her recent work entitled Headscarves and Hymens Why the Middle East Needs a Sexual Revolution, states that Cultural relativism is as much my enemy as the oppression I fight within my culture and faith. [1]
The Human Rights Council is an inter-governmental body within the United Nations system responsible for the promotion and protection of all human rights around the globe. It is made up of 47 nations. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights , as promulgated by the HRC, contains important phrases such as recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family, the dignity and worth of the human person and in the equal rights of men and women, and a common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations. It also decrees that maintaining these basic human rights is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world.
Lets examine some of the practices that affect women throughout the globe and try to determine whether they would be upheld by the Human Rights Council as a violation of womens human rights or whether they consist of different cultural norms that should not be criticized by those outside that culture.
Unchained at last
We must realize that it is not only in countries outside the United States that womens human rights are blatantly violated. The Public Broadcasting System recently aired a program entitled Unchained at Last about the practice of older men marrying young girls in the United States. Unchained at Last is a non-profit corporation founded by an ex-Orthodox Jewish woman named Fraidy Reiss. According to its mission, it helps any woman or girl in the US, from any community, culture or religion, who is or has been pressured, bribed, tricked, threatened, beaten or otherwise forced into marriage. It is quite obvious that each of the verbs used in that sentence violate a womans basic human rights. The founder, whose husband turned out to be abusive after only one week, was trapped for twelve years in her marriage. When she finally escaped with her two daughters, her Orthodox Jewish family shunned her. Esther, whose story is told here in more detail, was married off at just 17. Because she was under 18, her parents signed her marriage certificate. Her husband wanted to see her have sex with other men and she was gang raped numerous times while he hid in the closet and watched. Esther explains why her parents forced her to marry this man. They didnt have a chance to grow and mature, so how could they raise children to grow and mature? It is in this way that culture perpetuates itself. But to not criticize this aspect of culture is to condone it much as Secretary Kerry did in his comment about the Saudi Arabian practice of refusing to allow women to drive.
FGM
Female genital mutilation is the removal of part or all of the clitoris and part or all of the labia of the female genitalia. The obvious point in this cruel practice is to remove the organ that is responsible for sexual arousal and satisfaction in the female. The belief is that if this procedure is done on a pre-pubescent girl, she will not seek out a sexual partner prior to marriage, thus fulfilling the cultural and religious dictate to be a virgin when she marries, thus upholding the honor of her family. The requirement of virginity dates from at least the second millennium BCE as evidenced in the Old Testament. Once private property came into existence, the male head of household wanted to be sure that this property would pass to HIS children, thus virginity was paramount in a bride and adultery during marriage was severely punished. Because the young girl has no say in the matter, it is a basic violation of at least Article 3 of the GDHR Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.
A recent report by UNICEF on FGM gives us some hope as it shows that there has been a sharp decline in numerous countries where it is currently practiced. Prevalence has dropped by as much as almost half among adolescent girls in Benin, the Central African Republic, Iraq, Liberia and Nigeria. Education is helping. More and more mothers are becoming aware that this practice can lead to death and at the very least is torture.
Honor Killing
In her book entitled Unworthy Creature, Aruna Papp outlines her upbringing in India. Her story contains a litany of practices that everyone should agree violate the human rights of women. First, her mother had several coat-hanger abortions because abortion was not legal in her country. Second, Aruna herself was raped by a family friend. He raped her anally so that her virginity would be preserved (and probably also to increase his deniability). When she finally married, the man who raped her attended her wedding.
The scene that is the most heart-wrenching in her narrative, however, occurred when she was a teenager. She witnessed the burning of Kiran, a young neighbor girl. Kiran was burned to death because her family believed in some way that she had dishonored the family. Needless to say, no police or fire department was called to intervene to save her life. Aruna also found a dead baby girl on a garbage heap.
Each of us must do what we can in the countries that we live in to call out all the practices that do not treat women in the ways mandated by the UN Human Rights Council. I am most heartened by a young girl in Boorama town in North-West Somalia. I dont want any part of my body to be cut. I dont want to be circumcised, says 10-year old Kheiriya Abidi . Quite naturally she is terrified of the physical pain, torture and possible death that might occur. She had the support of her family, but of course not of the cultural norms in her country.
If Kheiriya can stand up for her rights, what can we do to support her and girls and women throughout the globe? We know that religion and culture are inextricably linked. If you are an atheist, have you told your friends? Do you talk to your friends about things you read like this blog post? There are many organizations that support womens rights across the globe. Can you help support them financially? Listed below are just a few of them.
For a longer list, please see this New York Times article .
MELBOURNE, Florida Neil Shafranski, 39, of Vero Beach, Florida has died as a result of injuries that he sustained in a vehicle accident that occurred around 12:37 a.m. on I-95 near Melbourne, Florida.
Shafranski was driving a 2014 Volkswagen Jetta southbound on I-95 in the outside lane. Meanwhile, a semi-truck driven by 54-year-old Rolando Veitia Gonzalez of Miami, Florida was also traveling southbound in front of the Volkswagon in the same lane.
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According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Shafranski failed to slow down as the Volkswagon approached the semi-truck. The front, right end of the Jetta then struck the rear, left end of the semi near mile marker 188.
Shafranski was pronounced deceased at the scene.
08:31
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with senior ministers past midnight to review demonetisation and its impact.
The meeting at Prime Minister's residence was attended by Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, I&B Minister Venkaiah Naidu, Power, Coal and Mines Minister Piyush Goyal and top officials of the Finance ministry.
Emerging from the meeting, Economic affairs secretary Shaktikanta Das told ANI:
* "The PM reviewed the supply and availability of cash to various banks and post offices. The reach and distribution of cash especially in rural area will improve substantially."
* "ATMs are being recalibrated to dispense 500,2000 notes that is new series of Rs 500 & Rs 2000 notes. To expedite the process as soon as possible, a task force is being set up under the chairmanship of RBI Deputy governor with representatives of banks as its members."
* "In the meantime, micro ATMs will be deployed in large number of areas to dispense cash against debit and credit cards."
* "Current account business entities which have operational current accounts during the last 3 months will be permitted to draw Rs 50,000 at a time. The ATM limit also has been increased to 2,500 rupees in respect to the recalibrated ATMs. In other words ATMs which are recalibrated to dispense new Rs500 or Rs 2000 notes, they can dispense 2,500 at a time."
* "It has been decided that all govt departments and central public sector undertakings will maximize their e-transactions. RBI advised National Payments Corporation of India to waive its transaction charges on old transactions which are settled through the financial switch. This facility will be available till December 31."
* "Annual life certificate which pensioners are required to submit during November, time limit for that has been extended till January 15, 2017. There will be separate queues for senior citizens and divyang persons in banks."
* "There will be separate queues for those who are visiting the banks only to exchange old series of notes for new notes."
* "Currently, the government has given exemption to certain category of transactions where old series of 500 & 1000 notes can be accepted. The limit for such transactions is being extended from November 14 midnight to November 24 midnight.
* "RBI has informed that there is enough cash available in the system."
New Delhi [India], Nov 14 (ANI- Business Wire India): This Children's Day Ola, India's most popular app for transportation is giving citizens of Kolkata a chance to support underprivileged children in the city. In an endeavor to help more than 30 thousand underprivileged kids, Ola, today announced an on-demand contribution drive. As part of this campaign, Ola will introduce a category icon - 'NOV 14', on its app on Children's Day. The 'NOV 14' icon will appear as an additional category on the Ola app, where customers can avail the offering at the click of a button, just like they book an Ola cab. Ola customers will be able to buy CRY (Child Rights and You) branded goodies like T-shirts, stationery kits, coffee mugs, cards and photo albums. All proceeds from the activity will be donated to CRY, to support their work towards upliftment of underprivileged children in the city. The category will be live between 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, on 14th November 2016. Once booked an Ola cab carrying CRY goodies will appear at the customer's location, from which he will be able to purchase the goodies of his/her choice. "A majority of children are still unable to receive basic amenities in the country. CRY has been playing a pivotal role in bringing about a positive change in the lives of millions of underprivileged children across the nation; and we are extremely proud to join them and do our bit in widening the reach of this effort," said Business Head - East at Ola, Piyush Surana. "While Ola is constantly working towards strengthening the transportation ecosystem in the city through its smart and sustainable commuting solutions; initiatives like these fall in line with our endeavour to serve the city in a holistic manner. As an Indian company whose vision is to create mobility for a billion Indians, we feel that it is of great importance that we open up our platform for such causes and enable people to contribute seamlessly. We hope to reach more and more underprivileged children through this campaign," added Surana. "We welcome Ola on their effort towards broadening our reach to the people of Kolkata on this Children's day. Having impacted over two million underprivileged children across 23 states in the country over the last 37 years, we hope that this drive will go a long way to raise awareness among the people at large, and receive considerable support from them, which will help us reaching more children in a meaning and effective way," said Regional Director CRY East, Atindra Nath Das. CRY, a renowned organization that has worked tirelessly to protect child rights and facilitates education opportunities for the underprivileged children. Together with Ola they are aiming to reach out to hundreds and thousands of Ola users through this contribution drive. Ola and CRY have worked together successfully on several occasions. Earlier this year, Ola collaborated with CRY for the World Environment Day wherein Ola gave away ride coupons to children affiliated with CRY to attend the event at Indian Museum, Kolkata. In September, Ola also participated in CRY's book launch event. (ANI- Business Wire India)
New Delhi [India], Nov 14 (ANI- Business Wire India): How often have you said this or heard people saying it? We forget many things in our daily lives, but there is a difference when we forget to take our prescribed medicines. If you missed yesterday's medicines, you can't take them today - the damage has already happened in your body. According to the World Health Organization, "Approximately 50 percent of patients do not take their medications as prescribed." This can lead to significant increase in hospitalization, treatment failure and even death. As per studies 2.5 times increased risk of hospitalization for patients with diabetes. Praveen Wadalkar with more than 15 years of experience in the healthcare domain offers strategies for patients to improve medicine adherence through his book "Stop buying medicines- if you are not going to have it as prescribed." He states, "Medicine adherence is the key to get maximum benefits from the treatment in any disease." Praveen Wadalkar is also a CEO and CO-founder of pharma digital marketing company, Techizer Tech solutions which is engaging more than 300000+ patients via various patient engagement programs in partnership with pharmaceutical companies. Dolly Wadalakar, Director and Co- founder of Techizer states, "We are exploring various digital technologies to develop robust, secured, compliant and scalable patients support programs for pharmaceutical companies. Even the audio version of this book will be introduced soon." Readers of his books have expressed great enthusiasm on this subject. Mihir Baxi, Marketing Manager Wockhardt states, "Based on the observations and various citations, it is found that in our country one thing has not changed, or maybe it was ignored then and is ignored now as well. It's the way we take our MEDICINE. The challenge at a doctor level has remained unchanged. Taking medicine on time as prescribed is like "I Know thing." Medicine non-adherence has huge impact on the global health system. As per studies done in the USA alone, one person is dying every five minutes due to non-adherence related issues. 10 percent to 25 percent of hospital and nursing-home admissions and 30 percent to 50 percent of treatment failures are because of medicine adherence related issues. Estimated annual pharmaceutical revenue loss due to medicine non-adherence is around USD 564 billion. Techizer has also introduced educational website www.neverskipmedicines.com for patients and their caregiver to improve their understanding on medicine adherence. "Very soon we are launching a free website where patients can read important information about their medicine in 9 Indian regional languages. Dolly Wadalkar, Director and Co-founder, Techizer Tech Solution. Further states, "Education is important in improving medicine adherence." Arun Intodia, General Manager, Sales at Springer Healthcare states, "I loved reading this book as author has focused on such an important topic very effectively in simple patient friendly language. I congratulate author for creating awareness about medication adherence through this book. This book should be available in all the Doctor's waiting rooms." (ANI- Business Wire India)
On Monday, leaders of the Congress, Trinamool Congress (TMC), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Janata Dal-United (JD-U), Communist Party of India (CPI), Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M), Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and the YSR Congress met in the room allotted to Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad.
"All parties denounced the manner in which the demonetisation was enforced. We are not against fighting black money, but this action has affected the farmers and daily wage earners," CPI leader D. Raja told IANS.
The opposition leaders will meet again at 2 p.m. on Tuesday and decide their strategy for the session.
Those present in the meeting included Sharad Yadav, Sitaram Yechury, Sudip Bandopadhyay, Derek O'Brien, D. Raja, Prem Chand Gupta, Sushil Kumar and M. Rajamohan Reddy.
Besides Azad, Congress Leader in the Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge and the party's Deputy Leader in the Rajya Sabha Anand Sharma were also present.
The opposition parties are quite vocal in opposing demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes on November 8 night, which has left people slogging in long queues outside banks and ATMs, with many complaining they do not have enough money even to buy esential items.
--IANS sid-ao/tsb/vt
( 247 Words)
2016-11-14-22:28:02 (IANS)
Harjinder Singh and Sandeep, along with two others, were printing the new Rs 2,000 notes in Bhikhiwind village, 40 km from Amritsar, to circulate these in the market and make a fast buck, the Punjab Police said.
The government had on November 10 issued the new notes of Rs 2,000 denomination in the wake of November 8 demonetisation of the Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes.
"Since most people have not seen the Rs 2,000 notes till now, the accused wanted to take advantage of the situation," a police officer said.
The arrested men had scanned the new notes to obtain their colour prints, police official Gurdeep Singh said.
The police seized fake currency notes, printer, scanner and computer of the accused.
"A case of counterfeiting currency has been registered against them. Further investigations and raids are in progress and more arrests are likely soon," the police officer said.
--IANS js/tsb
( 195 Words)
2016-11-14-22:36:02 (IANS)
Actor Sidharth Malhotra, who is currently in New Zealand as a brand ambassador of Tourism New Zealand, shared his prayers with all those who suffered damage after an earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale rocked New Zealand's South Island on Sunday. "Waking up to the news of the earthquakes overnight here in New Zealand - we're fine," he tweeted. "Thankfully at first light it seems the shakes have spared us from serious widespread damage. My thoughts n prayers are with the people of NZ," he further tweeted. A tsunami hit two hours after the earthquake. The US Geological Survey said the quake hit just after midnight, around 95 km from Christchurch, BBC reported. Officials who have warned the residents to head inland or for higher ground along the coast, said the first waves may not be the largest, with tsunami activity possible for several hours. A gauge at Kaikoura, 181 km north of Christchurch, measured a wave of two metres, according to Weatherwatch.co.nz. Smaller waves are said to be arriving in Wellington and other areas, the website said. Thousands of people have already evacuated their homes, Radio New Zealand reported. Christchurch is still recovering from the 2011 earthquake that killed 185 people and destroyed the city centre. According to the Herald newspaper, the tremor was felt all the way to Wellington, where sirens sounded and people fled buildings into the streets, some of them crying. On his second trip to the country, Sidharth loved Christchurch. "It has nice, easy vibes and it's comparatively younger I feel. It is less populated, which again makes this place very attractive for people like us who come from India. Its secluded, scenic, relaxed nature makes it a complete destination for anybody," he said. (The writer's trip is at the invitation of Tourism New Zealand. Nivedita can be contacted at nivedita.s@ians.in) --IANS nv/pgh/ ( 321 Words) 2016-11-14-04:00:04 (IANS)
Senior BJP leader and former Union minister Murli Manohar Joshi today emphasised that Indian nationalism is based on the concept of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the whole world is a family)' whereas globalisation is merely an economic concept. "The importance of nationalism in current era of globalisation and neo-liberalisation has been debated over the years. There is a difference between both of them. However, coordination is also required between them," said Dr Joshi while addressing a session on the second day of Lok Manthan being held at the Vidhan Sabha premises here, according to copies of a release distributed to media after the programme. NITI Ayog member and famous economist Bibek Debroy said true nationalism is subscribing to the belief that one's own progress is inherent the country's progress and vice-versa. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said India has provided more profound concept than globalisation and neo-liberalisation to the world in the form of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'. "Both capitalism and communism have failed. The whole world is looking with hope on India. Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay's concept of 'Ekatma Manav Vad (integral humanism)' is based on Indian traditions," he added.UNI PS PY SHK 2133 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0044-1021384.Xml
Nokia has been selected by the Korea Rail Network Authority (KRNA) as a supplier for the world's first LTE-R mobile broadband network to support railway operations and employee services. The network will be deployed on a railway line between Wonju and Gangneung as part of preparations for the major international sporting event being hosted by the country in 2018. KRNA is responsible for the development and maintenance of railway infrastructure in South Korea as well as a number of other countries. The communications network for KRNA will be based on LTE-R technology, a version of 4G LTE technology that is being developed to meet the mission-critical service requirements of railway operators. The network will support both operational and maintenance services on a high-speed commercial railway line operating at speeds of up to 250 km/h. KRNA's LTE-R network will provide secure, reliable, high-speed connectivity between trains, stations and other railway facilities between Wonju and Gangneung. The network will also be designed to interoperate with other LTE networks supporting public safety and maritime operations as well as legacy VHS (very high frequency) and TRS (trunked radio system) radio networks. This project is intended to serve as a model for future LTE-R deployments, and help further define LTE-R standardization efforts. For this project, Nokia will supply radio access network (RAN) base stations (eNodeBs) along with Nokia NetAct(TM), the first major virtualized network management software for mobile networks. NetAct delivers best-in-class applications for the railway operations and employee services management of KRNA. It also delivers advanced assurance capabilities as part of Nokia's comprehensive, multi-domain Service Assurance program, which provides closed-loop automation to drive greater network agility and optimization. Nokia systems integration and deployment services will help to establish the new LTE-R network. Andrew Cope, head of Korea at Nokia, said: "South Korea has been a world leader in the use of mobile broadband technology to make public services of all kinds safer, more efficient and reliable. With a thirty-year history in the delivery of GSM-R mobile networking technology for railways, and as a pioneer in the development of LTE-R solutions, we are pleased to partner with KRNA to bring these cutting edge capabilities to the country as they prepare to host one of the world's premier sporting events." (ANI)
Shocked by the gruesome murder of Dainik Bhaskar journalist Dharmendra Kumar Singh by unidentified assailants at Amra in Bihar on Saturday, the press fraternity of Arunachal Pradesh has condemned the incident in the strongest terms and urged the Bihar government to deliver justice to aggrieved family at the earliest. Singh, who was working with a prominent Hindi newspaper, was gunned down by unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants on Saturday morning, making it the second murder of a journalist in the state in the past six months. In a joint statement issued on Sunday, the Arunachal Press Club (APC), Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) and Arunachal Electronic Media Association (AEMA) expressed deep shock at the killing of Singh who had taken on the powerful local mafias in many occasions through his writings. The fraternity termed the murder as a cowardly attempt to muzzle down the freedom of speech. The media fraternity urged the Bihar government to come up with a mechanism to protect scribes in the state so that crusaders of freedom of speech are not cowed down. "The murder of journalist reflects the law and order situation of a state, it is duty the duty of welfare government of Bihar to protect the press fraternity and ensure safety of all scribes in the state" the press bodies stated in their statement. It further added that perpetrators should be brought to justice and award exemplary punishment, so that it sends message across. Expressing solidarity with media fraternity in Bihar as well as with aggrieved family, APC, APUWJ and AEMA stated that courageous and fierce writings of late Dharmendra Kumar Singh will embolden and inspired working journalists across the India. The fraternity further prayed almighty god for eternal peace of departed soul. (ANI)
The Israeli President will be accompanied by his spouse Nechama Rivlin and a high-level delegation comprising officials, academicians and business leaders.
During his visit from 14-21, President Rivlin will be received by President Mukherjee, who will also host a banquet in his counterpart''s honour. Later, Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari would call on him.
On November15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold bilateral discussions with President Rivlin and will also host a lunch for him.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj would call on President Rivlin.
President Rivlin is expected to meet business leaders of both of India and Israel. He will also be visiting ''Centre of Excellence'' in agriculture in Karnal and participate in Agro Tech - 2016.
India and Israel enjoy excellent relations marked by strong ties in the areas of economy and commerce, science and technology, research and innovation, culture and tourism, education etc, said a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs on November 9 in New Delhi. (ANI)
The Shiv Sena on Monday hailed the BJP-led NDA regime's bold step of demonetisation and asserted that such a move was required to combat the menace of black money. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said that his party is with the government in the fight against black money but added the Centre should also address the grievances of the common public which is suffering due to monetary crisis. "The government has full right to take such a bold step to combat the menace of black money and we are with the government in this endeavour. We demand that black money should be brought to an end and the nation should get a strong economic policy," said Raut. "Our issue is that measures should be taken to address the incumbent grievances of the common man, who does not possess black money. The Prime Minister is talking about 50 days, I say the people are not ready to wait for 50 hours," he added. During an emotional address to the people in Goa, Prime Minister Modi yesterday said that he left his family and home to serve the nation, adding he understands the pain of the people who have been waiting in long queues to exchange their currencies. "I was not born for sitting on a chair of high office. Whatever I had, my family, my home...I left it for the nation," Prime Minister Modi said. "Yes, I also feel the pain. These steps taken are not a display of arrogance. I have seen poverty and understand the problems of the people," he added. The demonetisation by the government has thrown normal life out of gear for those falling under the lower income group across the country as the new endeavour has caused cash crunch. Long queues at ATMs and bank branches are being seen as worried customers are thronging them to exchange or deposit their old cash and withdraw money. On November 8, Prime Minister Modi announced demonetisation of currency notes in a major assault on black money, fake currency and corruption. (ANI)
Gurupurab, the 548th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji, is being celebrated today with religious fervour and gaiety in the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh region despite sub-zero temperatures. Jammu and Kashmir Governor NN Vohra, Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, leaders of different political parties and sikh organisations greeted people on the occasion. Both the factions of the Hurriyat Conference (HC) and Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), spearheading the agitation since July 9, have already withdrawn the Lal Chowk Challo call on the request of Sikh organisations. However, hartal continues in the Valley, where life remains affected for the past 129 days. Braving chilly weather conditions due to below freezing minimum temperature, members of the Sikh community, including women and children, visited Gurdwaras in colourful dresses in the morning. The main function was held at Gurdwara Chatipadshahi on the foothills of Kohi-e-maran, where the shrines of Mehboob-ul-Aalam and a Hindu temple are also located. Despite minus 1.9 degrees Celsius minimum temperature, a large number of Sikhs, including women and children, from different parts of the city were visiting the Gurdwara in their private vehicles and covering the distance from their houses on foot since there was no public transport due to strike. Muslims and Kashmiri Pandits were seen greeting their Sikh brethern on the occasion. Special langars (community kitchen) have been established in gurdwaras for the devotees. Similar religious functions were also held at Jawahar Nagar, Sanant Nagar and other places in Srinagar, Baramulla, Tral, Uri and Pulwama. Hundreds of devotees also offered special prayers on the occasion of Gurupurab in Kargil and Leh despite below freezing temperatures. The All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC) has conveyed its greetings to the people around the globe on the occasion. In a statement, APSCC chairman Jagmohan Singh Raina, said: ''People should follow teachings of Guru Ji and his message of love and peace should percolate down the world. ''Ultimate peace can be achieved if people follow the path set out by Guru ji.'' More UNI BAS RSA SNU 1210 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0153-1021747.Xml
The Bus Bar makes the successful power distribution in high powersatellites with minimum power loss and good thermal performance ofHTS, where power requirement is greater than 10 kW, ISRO said in its website.
The indigenous Bus Bar would replace conventional harness tocater to the high power requirements of HTS Class of Satellites. Thepotential of Indian industry is utilised to realise Bus Bars at aremarkably competitive cost.
For the first time, indigenous Bus Bars will be carried byGSAT-19 which is scheduled to be launched by GSLV-Mk III from SDSC,SHAR, Sriharikota later this year.
The development of indigenous Bus Bar meets the requirements ofongoing programmes and ensures the adaptability for forthcoming highpower spacecraft programme of ISRO.
Conventional harness for power distribution with twisted pair ofwires could not meet the low power and voltage drop specifications.Therefore, it was prudent to have an efficient and optimised powerdistribution system. Usage of Bus Bar in place of conventional powerharness was noted to be an appropriate option. The main advantagesare power and voltage drop reduction, better thermal design, andreduced Electro Magnetic Interference (EMI) compared to wireharnesses.
The development of indigenous materials and processes associatedwith the Bus Bar also have paved the way for spin-off applicationsin other subsystems and utilisation for future satellite programmeISRO said.
In addition, the indigenous development has derived the benefitsof technology demonstration, technical expertise gain, in-houserealisation with adaptable and scalable designs for futureapplication and saving of considerable foreign exchange. Developmentof insulation materials such as Poly Aryl Ether Ketone (PAEK), 3Dprinted Ultem and processes such as Micro Arc Oxidation and EpoxyInsulation coating are the new areas proven for space applicationwhile evolving this Bus Bar.UNI CNR MSP RSS1355
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In view of higher demand of womenentrepreneurs seeking logistic and infrastructure support from thegovernment, Karnataka will be setting up industrial parksexclusively for women entrepreneurs in different parts of the state,Chief Minister Siddaramaiah today said. Speaking as the Chief Guest at 'Think Big -- Women in Business2016' summit, dubbed as Asia's largest women entrepreneurshipplatform here, he said his government had given women Entrepreneursspecial attention to encourage enterprise creation and industrialcapacity building by them for an inclusive growth and sustained development. The event, supported by the Karnataka government is a summit forwomen business owners being held today and tomorrow in associationwith WEConnect, a mega event that focuses exclusively on womenentrepreneurship. More than 2000 women entrepreneurs from across the globe,including 600 from Karnataka, are taking part in the event. ''We did not anticipate this kind of unprecedented response fromthe Women Entrepreneurs in such a short span. Initially we thoughtof developing one Women's Park at Harohally near Bangalore. But,surprisingly there was a great response from all over the State toset up Parks for Women. ''So we will be doing it and several such parks would come upacross the districts soon. This include a women's industrial parknear Kalaburgi in backward Hyderabad-Karnataka region,'' MrSiddaramaiah said. He said Karnataka's diversity ratio in employment andentrepreneurship is amongst the best in India. The eco-system in theState was regarded as the bench-mark for women to live and work andI am happy that we are in the right direction. As per the World Bank Report 2010-11, the highest percentage ofwomen work participation was in United States of America at 45percent. Their share was 35 percent in Brazil, 38 percent in France,40 percent in Indonesia, 42 percent in Canada and 43 percent inUnited Kingdom. India which had a share of 31.6 per cent can made further stridesto bring in more women as entrepreneurs, he said. He said according to the fourth Medium, Small and MicroEnterprises (MSME) census, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and WestBengal have 51.9 percent of the country's women-owned business trulyindicating the potential that exists in our State and country. ''I am sure with the initiatives taken up, Karnataka would soonbe in the top slot for Women Entrepreneurship. Therefore, ThinkBig2016 rightfully provides a platform to many Aspiring and Existingwomen entrepreneurs an equal opportunity for economic freedom andwell-being and Wealth creation, he added. He said his government had approved the reimbursement of the feeof WEConnect International for the next three years in a phasedmanner to encourage Women Entrepreneurs. WEConnect International provides certification to women-ownedbusinesses to help them succeed in global value chains and connectthem to Indian and Multinational Corporation. The chief minister said such networks have a critical role infinding solutions to common challenges faced by women globally andbringing about greater equity. UNI RS MSP RSS1400 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0284-1021919.Xml
Business and other activities remained crippled for the 129th day due to strike called by separatists in Kashmir valley, where a large number of private vehicles, besides three-wheelers, hit the streets in view of 12th grade examination commencing from today. However, public transport remained off the roads since July 9 in support of the separatists strike call though buses plied on city roads yesterday, when there was relaxation in shutdown between 1600 hrs to 0700 hrs this morning. Police said there was no curfew or restrictions in any part of Kashmir valley though security forces continued to remain deployed to maintain law and order. There was, however, no change in the situation in and around historic Jamia Masjid, where main gates leading to the mosque remained closed and no Friday prayers could be offered for the past 18 weeks due to curfew. Good number of private vehicles, particularly two-wheelers, were plying in summer capital, Srinagar and other major towns in view of the grade 12th examination. But public transport, barring some three-wheelers, remained off the roads in Kashmir, where around 90 civilians were killed and 10,000 others injured in security force and police action since July 9. Shops and business establishments also remained closed in summer capital, Srinagar and elsewhere in Kashmir, where large number of security forces and state police personnel remained deployed to prevent any demonstrations. Both the factions of the Hurriyat Conference (HC) and Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), spearheading the agitation since the death of Burhan, had already extended the strike till November 17. The separatists had earlier urged people to march towards historic Lal Chowk today, but later withdrew the programme on the request of All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC) in view of Gurupurab. However, there is no evening relaxation in the strike today. Business and other activities remained paralysed, including at major business hubs of historic Lal Chowk, Budshah Chowk, Gonikhan, Hari Singh High Street (HSHS), Residency road, Moulana Azad road, Dalgate and exhibition. However, some vendors, particularly selling vegetables and fruits could be seen at several places.MORE UNI ABS SB ADG 1414 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0433-1021891.Xml
Sharpening her attack against the Narendra Modi led NDA government at the Centre over banning of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today strongly criticised Mr Modi for his reported statement that the poor people were sleeping peacefullly."The PM in his speech had said the poor are sleeping peacefully. This is an insult to commoners and in bad taste," Ms Banerjee twitted immediately after the PM's reported speed during a rally in Uttar Pradesh.In Ghazipur on demonetisation Mr Modi said it was like ''kadak chai'', not liked by rich,but relished by poor. Mr Modi said the "poor are sleeping peacefully and the rich need sleeping pills". Reacting to this comment by the PM, Ms Banerjee said the statement on the poor was an insult to common people and in bad taste." The PM in his speech had said the poor are sleeping peacefully. This is an insult to commoners and in bad taste. My humble suggestion is not to hit the common people like this ," she added."While common people have been victimised and crushed under weight of 'demonetisation', many economists now predicting onset of recession," twitted the Bengal CM.She said "this ( banning of Rs 500 and Rs 1000) will be a killer for the common people. Already a staggering Rs 1.5 lakh crore of GDP has been lost to the economy in only six days," she added.Ms Banerjee earlier called for a "joint movement" by oppositions against the Union government to force the Centre to withdraw the decision, saying its was "financial anarchy." UNI PC RN -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0311-1022140.Xml
All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam(AIADMK) legislature party leader A Anbazhagan today exhorted the voters of Nellithoppe Assembly constituency to vote and elect AIADMK candidate Om Sakthi Sekhar in upcoming by-election. In a statement here today Mr Anbazhagan called upon the people to think how this by-election was imposed and for whose benefits and also how the constituency where the DMK had won five times was given away to the Congress in the last elections. Refuting several claims of Tamil Nadu opposition leader and DMK treasurer M K Stalin, Mr Anbazhagan said that Mr Stalin who held posts like Deputy Chief Minister and leader of the opposition hid the fact that Narayanasamy's government was one example for how a government should not function. He said in the last four years, the government was not functioning here and Mr Stalin during his election campaign last evening had pointed out several achievements in a government which was not at all functioning. Mr Anbazhagan also posed several questions to Mr Stalin whether, he knows that the real DMK cadres are irritated on giving away the seat to the Congress and the DMK is now becoming a branch of the Congress in Puducherry, whether Stalin will make clear which money the income tax officials had seized from the residence of former legislator John Kumar immediately after his resignation and why he(John Kumar) had "sold out" the love and affection of the people who voted him to power. Mr Anabzhagan said Mr Narayanasamy who was in power at the Centre for 23 years did nothing for Puducherry. The government owned Anglo-French Textile mill was closed for the past 10 years and in the past 15 years no new industry started here and in the 15 years Congress ruled 65 per cent of the industrial units left Puducherry. He said Mr Stalin had stated that Mr Narayanasamy had brought the law and order under control and wondered whether the bomb culture was eradicated. Refuting the claim of Stalin that Narayanasamy will bring more employment opportunities, Mr Anbazhagan said, when he assumed office as the chief minister 4000 government employees were terminated.UNI PAB SHS 1507 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0329-1021926.Xml
Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao today praised the Apollo Hospital for serving the society for more than 32 years, while noting the connection between Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Jayalalithaa and the hospital. While inaugurating the 66th Hospital of Apollo Group in Navi Mumbai, Mr Rao said when he took over as the Governor of Tamil Nadu, the Chief Secretary gave him a 'very important' file for reading. It was about the 1983-founded hospital, which treated Ms Jayalalithaa's mentor MG Ramchandhran, when he was the CM. Apollo hospital and the context was the health bulletin issued by its founder Dr Pratap Reddy in 1983 about Jayalalithaa's mentor MG Ramchandhran 32 years ago when he was the CM, who had been admitted and was being treated at the hospital. After 32 years, another Tamil Nadu Chief Minister was admitted to the same hospital and its founder Dr Pratap Reddy, who had issued health bulletin on MGR, did the same for the current CM, he said. UNI XR NV RJ 1508 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0169-1022048.Xml
Official sources here today said that Rizwan Ahmad, after battling for his life for over a week, succumbed to his injuries at a hospital this morning.
Rizwan was hit and critically injured by a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) vehicle at Parimpor in Srinagar last week.UNI ABS RJ 1514
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Kalavati (65) on pillion of bike being driven by her brother-in-law Devi Dyal, fell on road when hit by a speeding car on Barara-Sadhaura road. She died on the spot while injured Dayal was admitted to hospital. The car driver escaped.
In another incident, an old farmer Baldev Singh, a resident of village Kakkar Majra, was returning home from his fields. He was killed when a car on high speed hit him killing him on the spot.
The police started investigation after registering a case against unknown person driving the car.UNI XC JS SW 1652
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Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi is launching a global 'youth for youth' campaign to end child slavery and other forms of violence against children. The campaign will start from India with some of the world's highest moral authorities Nobel Laureates and other leaders-- assembling to take part in the 'Laureates and Leaders for Children Summit' on December 10 and 11 in the national capital. The summit will be inaugurated by President Pranab Mukherjee. In a press statement today, Mr Satyarthi called upon the government and citizens to celebrate Children's Day by pledging to protect the rights of all children in the country. Stressing on the need for a national resolve towards children, he made an appeal to the leaders of all political parties to devote at least one full day to deliberate on children's issues in the upcoming session. "The fight against child labour, child trafficking and child sexual abuse need higher political will," he said. Mr Satyarthi also said, "Although significant progress has been made for the protection of child rights, critical challenges continue due to gaps in policy and their implementation. More serious efforts are needed in this regard." He expressed his disappointment towards the budgetary allocation for the issues of children. Indian population comprises about 492 million children which is a massive 41 per cent of the overall figure. Whereas, the budgetary allocation made towards their issues is only 4 per cent. "Regardless of the fact that our nation has the world's highest number of malnourished children, child labour and children vulnerable to sexual offences; it is unfortunate that this section of the society receives the lowest budgetary allocation in terms of proportion." "All our efforts for the development of children fail with such disproportionate investment", he added. ''Every eight minutes a child goes missing in India. Another 43 lakh toil in exploitative labour conditions every day and the number of children out-of-school is close to 99 lakh. This is official data. However, the ground situation could be more pathetic,'' he noted. Mr Satyarthi appreciated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiative asking Parliament Members to make at least one model village in each constituency. The PM had announced this in his speech at the Red Fort on Independence Day after assuming office in 2014. He added, "We should work towards making these model villages child-friendly. Child participation should be emphasised on children's related matter. There should be zero tolerance to trafficking, child labour, child marriage, illiteracy and other forms of abuse against children at village level." Mr Satyarthi's novel concept of was started in 2001 with the objective of keeping children as the focal point, and through them, approximately 500 villages in 11 Indian states have been made child-friendly. A novel concept has been started of making Bal Mitra Gram (Child-friendly villages) to establish a child-friendly society through democratic processes and actions. "There is a deficit of moral will and compassion for children. Even with so many institutions of governance and faith, laws and conventions, we are failing to protect millions of our children worldwide. There is an imperative need for a strong moral platform of global leaders to come together for the cause of children", expressed the Nobel Laureate. Besides 25 Nobel Laureates and world leaders, around 150 eminent personalities from the corporate sector, academia, sports, media and civil society will be present on the occasion. UNI SY SB ADG 1707 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0093-1022078.Xml
Fortis Hospital Anandapur today saluted little superheroes on Children's Day. What happens when a six year old child is brought with two failed kidneys? What happens when an iron rod travelling at a lethal pace from the second storey of a building pierces an 11 year old girl? What happens when a baby is born just 25 weeks into the womb weighing 600gms? What happens when a six year old is brought with Dengue induced complications resulting in convulsion and bleeding into lungs? They fight hand-in-hand with the doctors. They cheat death. They celebrate life. In this age and time when the world is ruled by adult values and norms, Fortis Hospital Anandapur feels humbled in saluting these indomitable spirits on this Children's Day felicitating them as FORTIS SUPERHEROES. Speaking on the occasion, Zonal Director at Fortis Healthcare Ltd (East) Samir Singh said, "Children's day is celebrated to give respect, support and encouragement to the next generation. In a world where children are progressively being seen as passive recipients of an adult run societies values, beliefs and norms, it is important to enable the society to begin recognizing children as active participants of societal change and growth." "These little angels have proven they are fighters and are great idols for us adults to emulate. We are celebrating life, our future and also our doctors who never lost heart," he said. On the occasion, senior consultant Psychiatrist at Fortis Hospital Anandapur Dr Sanjay Garg said, "Every child is a real life super hero, they have within themselves the power to don their very own cape and save the world in their own special way". Consultant Paediatric Nephrology at Fortis Hospital Anandapur Dr Rajiv Sinha said, "This event is organised to celebrate those children who has come out from serious disease for example a child who lost both of the kidney because of in born problems and then came for dialysis and finally went for a transplant. Both of this is quite big procedure but they fought it and have survived. So they are the Hero to us. It's celebrating their spirit of fighting and survival". Consultant Neonatologist and Paediatrician at Fortis Hospital Anandapur Dr Sumita Saha said, "Fortis provides State of the Art facilities at Neo-Natal unit for babies fighting Congenital abnormalities and for those who require critical surgeries. Fortis also provides all equipped ambulances for us to go and pick critically ill babies from other Nursing Homes at odd hours. This event is to celebrate the survival instinct of such kids and we at Fortis stand united to salute the spirit of such superheroes"Consultant Paediatrics at Fortis Hospital Anandapur Dr Nicola Flynn said " To our children, whom we want to teach everything in life, but end up learning what life is all about. Give your child the gift of your precious time." Consultant Paediatric Intensivist at Fortis Hospital Anandapur Dr. Bichitrovanu Sarkar said, "While it takes true dedication and genuine expertise and knowledge to save a critically ill child, it is also important to support the family during this stressful period, with an understanding of their emotions and be accommodative of their reactions. We must remember, it is easy to be wise in retrospect, and whatever the initial treating doctor did, he did it according to his best judgement in that specific situation. Situations evolve and we do not know how things were like when he first saw this child. I think we need to do a lot more in bringing back these simple ethics into our medical practice today". Consultant Paediatric Neonatology at Fortis Hospital Anandapur Dr Indrani Bhattacharya said, " In the era of the babies " born to soon" we should commit ourselves to help make the future generations mentally and physically healthy and strong .UNI BM KK 1745 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0212-1022415.Xml
Only two people from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) arrived here, while eight Kashmiris crossed over to the other side of Line of Control (LoC) by Karwan-e-Aman bus, operating between Srinagar and Muzaffarabad. Meanwhile, 12 people also returned to their respective sides at Kaman post, the last Indian military post on this side of the LoC in Uri sector. Official sources here this evening said two PoK residents, including a woman, arrived at Kaman post after crossing Aman Setu, peace bridge, on foot to meet their relatives, separated in 1947 due to partition. They said eight Kashmiris, including two women and as many children, who had gone to the PoK, returned to Srinagar after completing their stay there. Meanwhile, eight Kashmiris crossed to the other side of LoC, to meet their relatives. Sources said that four PoK residents, including a woman and a child, who had come to Srinagar earlier, also returned to their homes. ''The bus had left Srinagar at 0700 hrs this morning to avoid any protests and stone pelting,'' they said. The bus service was not affected this time, despite tense situation on the LoC, where two soldiers were killed and several others were injured, when Pakistani troops violated ceasefire and targeted forward posts and civilian targets in Machil and Keran sectors, during the past four days.MORE UNI ABS SW RJ 1756 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0433-1022339.Xml
Addressing a two-day annual Security Skills & Leadership Summitorganised by Security Sector Skill Development Council (SSSDC) here,the Minister said the security agency should focus on the process ofsmart grooming and training of the men and woman in the field.
''It is very important for the security industry to focus onproduct presentation and quality services. This will take theindustry into the next orbit of growth,'' he said.
He urged the private security sector (PSS) to set up qualitytraining centres and centres of excellence across the country andmake the eco-system more aspirational for the youth and securityguards. ''The PSS needs a lot of interventions and I am ready toprovide all aids required in skill development and management,'' he added.
Mr Rudy hoped that Star Badge embedded with SSSDC logo andbarcode will give private security forces professional confidenceand special status as well.
Mr Kunwar Vikram Singh, Chairman, SSSDC, said wearing star badgewill not only make the badge holder trust his inner strength andstand out but also others to trust his competence and skills. Thisrecognition by SSSDC will also increase their salary to Rs 15,000from the current Rs 8,000-10,000, as per the guidelines of theLabour Ministry.
He said SSSDC will honour 20 lakh security guards with star badgeacross the country and it aims to certify the remaining 50 lakhsecurity services personnel with required training and grooming inthe next few years.
The private security sector has over 300 training centres acrossIndia to produce skilled security guards engaged mainly in mannedguarding and cash services.
Mr Singh said SSSDC aims at setting up centres of excellencepan-India and expects to increase the training centres manifold inthe next few years.UNI RS MSP AK1820
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A militant was reportedly killed as alert troops foiled an infiltration bid at Nowgam sector in the frontier district of Kupwara, Kashmir. Defence Ministry Spokesperson Col Rajesh Kalia told UNI that troops guarding the Line of Control (LoC) noticed a group of militants sneaking into this side from Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) in Nowgam sector of Kupwara. However, when challenged and asked to surrender, the militants opened indiscriminate firing with automatic weapons. Troops also retaliated and in the fierce encounter, a militant was reportedly killed, he added A massive search operation has been launched in the woods, he said, adding further details are awaited. However, the Defence ministry spokesman was not available to confirm the incident.UNI ABS CJ RJ 1824 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0433-1022428.Xml
Haryana Tourism Minister Ram Bilas Sharma today said the mindset of people of the state had changed and daughters were being treated with respect and consideration. Speaking at the Golden Jubilee Celebrations, organised by the Haryana Association UK at Southall, London, Mr Sharma said that wrestler Sakshi Malik and para athlete Deepa Malik had brought laurels to the country and the state by winning medals at the Olympics and Paralympics, respectively. Members of UK Parliament Seema Malhotra and Virendra Sharma; First Secretary, High Commission of India, London Sunil Kumar and other dignitaries were present in this event, a statement said here. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed appreciation for the improvement in the sex ratio of the state after the launch of 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' programme at the inaugural function of Swarna Jayanti celebrations in Gurugram on November 1, he added. He also invited the people to participate in the international Gita Jayanti Utsav, to be held at Kurukshetra from December 6 to 10, and International Crafts Mela at Surajkund in district Faridabad from February 1 to 15.UNI XC RJ 1923 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0293-1022626.Xml
Along with the rest of the country Children's Day was celebrated at Raj Bhavan here in Meghalaya today. The celebration was organised by Raj Bhavan, Shillong in collaboration with the East Khasi Hills District Administration with the support from State Bank of India, Singhania Printing Press, Round Table India, Delhi Mistan and Madras Cafe, Shillong. Meghalaya Governor V Shanmuganathan welcomed the students to the historic Raj Bhavan, stating that Raj Bhavan, Shillong is over a century old and is located amidst lush greenery. He informed the gathering that Children's Day is celebrated on the Birth anniversary of the first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. The late Prime Minister was very much enthusiastic and warm hearted towards children and was also concerned for their welfare, rights, education and overall improvement, he further said. "The deep love of Chacha Nehru towards children is the big reason for celebrating Children's Day on his Birth anniversary," the Governor said. He appealed to all parents and teachers present to strive to be role models to their wards, adding that their every word and action has a direct influence in the lives of the children. Mr Shanmuganathan urged upon the parents and teachers to give time, care, love, affection and to raise their children in such a manner that they grow up to become responsible citizens of this great nation. Songs and dances presented by the students of K J P Girls' Higher Secondary School, Sein Jaintia Secondary School, Garo Union Secondary School, and a One act play performed by ICCR and Department of Arts and Culture, Government of Meghalaya were some of the other highlights of the celebration. Mr Shanmuganathan distributed trophies and certificates to the winners of the different schools who participated in the Raj Bhavan Sprint Meet, Raj Bhavan Painting Competition, Raj Bhavan Essay Competition and Raj Bhavan Speech Competition which was held on October 25 to 27 at J N Stadium and at U Soso Tham Auditorium premises. UNI RRK BM -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0214-1022854.Xml
Bihar joined the nation in paying tributes to first Prime Minister Pundit Jawahar Lal Nehru on his birth anniversary, celebrated as children's day today. Bihar Education Minister Ashok Kumar Chaudhary paid floral tributes to statue of Pundit Nehru near Patna Junction where main function was organised. Excise Minister Abdul Jalil Mastan, Animal and Fisheries Minister Awadhesh Kumar Singn, former Minister Shyam Rajak and former MLA Sanjeev Prasad Tony besides several otherimportant dignitaries also paid tributes to the first Prime Minister on the occasion. Reports of organising function to pay tributes to Pundit Nehru also poured in from various parts of the state. Functions were also organised to observe birth anniversary of first Guru of Sikh communityGuru Nank. Main function was organised in Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib in Patna City, the birth place of 10th Guru of Sikh community Guru Govind Singh.UNI KKS BM -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0214-1022856.Xml
BJP today said militancy and separatism in Kashmir will never be same after the 'Financial Surgical Strike' by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "The well timed and extremely well executed move on blocking currency of high denominations by the Union Government has put the nail in the coffin of separatism and militancy in the state,'' Sunil Sethi, State BJP Chief Spokesperson in a statement issued here said. He said it is matter of common knowledge that unrest in Valley is sustained by 'fake currency' and 'Hawala money' from across borders or by even enemies of the nation sitting within but with the change of high denomination currency the money flow in Kashmir will be effectively stopped, which will ensure peace in region. Mr Sethi further said capacity of separatists and enemy, sitting across border to financially sustain such unrest over period of time, like what is being witnessed now, will never happen in future. "The correction in system carried by currency reforms will be here for stay and more anticipated reforms of Central Government will ensure that in future, nobody will be allowed to run business of terror and blood in land of peace,'' he added. Mr Sethi further said though people are currently facing difficulties because of the shifting of system but this is being done for larger interest of nation, which is being welcomed by public at large. He also noted that money, which is being deposited in banks, will put currency back in circulation and also get tax to govt, adding that the system as being implemented will make corruption and black-marketing in future almost impossible. He said the government will surely target the money in foreign banks stacked by corrupt elements. UNI VBH PY SHK 2124 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0298-1022858.Xml
High Court Judge Justice P Ubaid while rejecting the plea, asked petitioner Zakir Hussain to surrender before the investigating officer within one week.
While considering the anticipatory bail application, Kerala government counsel told the court that Zakir Hussain was a goonda.
The police had opposed the bail application stating that if the accused has been granted bail, there was possibility to influence the witness in the case.UNI CGV PY SHK 2155
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According to sources, Bhuyar, who heads Vidarbha region of the pro-farmer outfit, received the order of externment under the Bombay Police Act last week in a case of alleged extortion and obstruction of government work.
SSS, a partner in the BJP-led Maharashtra government, has alleged misuse of powers over slapping of an externment order against one of its key functionaries in Buldhana district.
Under the provisions of the Bombay Police Act, police prepares the externment order, which is then sent to the Revenue Department for approval, following which it is forwarded to the inspector general of police, after whose approval it is implemented by the district police.
The decision has irked local workers of SSS and the entire organisation that supported BJP during the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections of 2014.
"The organisation's popularity is the real problem to some leaders, who ensured that I get notice of externment,"Mr Bhuyar said to a section of media on getting the notice.UNI PK SS PY SHK 2134
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The Shiv Sena has warned Prime Minister Narendra Modi to roll back the demonetisation scheme or be on the receiving end of an angered public, who are seething with fury after being massively inconvenienced by the Centre's tectonic scheme. Speaking to the media here, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut asserted that the severe crunch being faced by the people was a very disturbing sign for the government. When told that the Prime Minister had firmly ruled out any possibility of a roll back, Raut replied saying, "then the government can face a roll back themselves. The Shiv Sena fully stands in the fight against corruption, but if there is so much anger among the masses, then something must be wrong." Emphasising his party's stand on the matter, Raut further said that it was the common man on whom the scheme had proven to be costly, which the rich and powerful continued to languish in their palaces. "Not a single one of them has been caught, nor are they standing in the long queues. This is not about siding with the opposition but about being with the masses when they need us. All political parties must join hands and call for a roll back of the scheme," Raut said. However, calling on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to pay no heed to the barrage of attack by the opposition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier today ordered the government to go full ahead with demonetisation and ruled out any chance whatsoever of rolling back the scheme. According to sources, the Prime Minister who was chairing the BJP Parliamentary Party executive meeting, told the attendees to not buckle under the opposition's pressure and go ahead with the Centre's policy. Stating that the opposition was hard at work to sabotage the process of demonetisation, the Prime Minister assured that the nation has welcomed the step. The Prime Minister's assertion comes in the wake of the all out attack launched by the opposition today, as the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP) joined forces in tearing down the scheme of demonetisation. Earlier today, Mayawati asserted that people, who were expecting good days, are now facing bad days because of the government's strange decision to ban high denomination notes. Attempting to reach out to the poor and middle class ahead of next year's assembly polls, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said that small and medium businesses have shut down courtesy demonetisation. "In the name of demonetisation, the common people are being made to suffer. Modi ji has brought miseries and pain for the poor which is extremely wrong. I would like to ask why people of the nation are being troubled like this," said Mayawati. "The economic affairs of the nation has been hampered by this decision, crores of small and medium scale businesses have been shut in the wake of demonetisation. Its seems like a country wide shutdown is being observed. The people, who were expecting 'achhe din', are now facing 'bure din' and people of the nation want freedom from all this," she added. On the other hand, holding the Prime Minister responsible for the present cash crunch, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the Centre was unprepared in dealing with the crisis. "Today Centre announced that Indian Air Force will be used to carry and distribute currency notes, it shows that government did not have any game plane to tackle the crisis, government was unprepared in executing its plan, it shows that the government is in a precarious situation," Kejriwal said. He said that despite Prime Minister Modi's claim that the demonitisation drive would bring sleepless nights to the rich, the aam aadmi (common man), instead, are having sleepless nights standing outside the ATMs. Branding the Prime Minister as a "habitual abuser", the Congress said that arrogance of power should not surpass the problems faced by people. Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala lashed out at the Prime Minister and said that it has become his "character and style" to taunt others. "The Prime Minister is a habitual abuser himself. We respect the Prime Minister and the office he holds. Whatever abuses he may heap, which he continues to do every day on the leaders of the opposition parties, let him mock the entire country. The Prime Minister mocks the entire nation. The other day, he was sitting in Japan and mocked everybody who was getting married, who were not able to arrange their marriages. Such has become the character and style of this minister," Surjewala said. Prime Minister Modi, who has drawn sharp flak from a united opposition post his decision to scrap 500 and 1,000 rupee currency notes, urged all to support his decision and bless him in his war against black or undeclared money. "There are some political parties that are worried over currency ban. Those against me are strong people. But I will not be scared of them. I will not leave the path of truth and integrity. Some people never say anything on your face, but behind your back they poke other people to oppose and go against you," he added while addressing a mega rally in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh on Monday. (ANI)
President Pranab Mukherjee today facilitated the Sikhs on the birthday of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh religion, and celebrated it with usual fervour and religious sanctity at Rashtrapati Bhavan.President of the Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee Manjit Singh G K and secretary Manjinder Singh Sirsa formally honoured Mr Mukherjee on behalf of the committee. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and former Deputy Prime Minister Lal Krishan Advani were part of the congregation. A Gurbani Kirtan (hymn) was performed on the auspicious occasion which was rendered by a team led by Bhai Rai Singh, Hazoori Ragi, Shri Darbar Sahib, Amritsar.Addressing the congregation, Mr Sirsa said Guru Nanakji worked for uplifting humanity by promoting a casteless and classless society that respected all religions sans ritualism and superstitions. He raised his voice against all and mighty barbaric rulers of the day while preaching equality and urging the people to be benevolent and partake their wealth with the needy and hapless. He sought not only equality but also put women at a higher pedestal an ideal which is still to be accomplished.Mr Sirsa emphasised that even during those days, Guru Nanak undertook four major pilgrimages and toured almost one-third of the present day world to spread his spiritual message which remains equally relevant today.Mr Mukherjee led the congregation to 'langer' which was organised at the Rastrapati Bhavan itself. After the holy prayer (ardas), the President honoured the kirtani jatha and five DSGMC office-bearers, Manjit Singh,Manjinder Singh Sirsa, vice-president Mohinder Pal Singh Chadda, junior vice-president Satpal Singh, joint secretary Amarjit Singh and Principal Dr Jaswinder Singh.UNI SM PY SHK 2213 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0298-1022908.Xml
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today arrived at Lal Bahadur Shashtri International Airport, Babatpur, here. He arrived 10 minutes before the scheduled time and later left for Ghazipur in an Army helicopter. Official Sources said here that Mayor Ramgopal Mohley, Commissioner Nitin Ramesh, District Magistrate Yogeshwar Ram Mishra welcomed Mr Modi at the airport. The PM will inaugurate several railway projects and will flag off a new train ''Shabdabhedi Express'' in Ghazipur. After that, he will return to Babatpur airport at around 0100 hours and then return to Delhi.UNI XC-JDM MB SHS SNU 1202 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0329-1021772.Xml
One person was killed and two others injured when an unidentified vehicle hit their scooty in Srinagar outskirts, official sources said here today. They said three people riding a scooty were injured when they were hit by an unidentified vehicle at Kralpora on Srinagar-Charar-e-Sharief road. The injured were rushed to a hospital where one of them identified as Suhail Rafiq succumbed. The condition of two other injured is stated to be critical, they said, adding that a massive hunt has been launched to identify the vehicle and driver.UNI BAS SHS SNU 1021 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0153-1021687.Xml
Despite tense situation on the Line of Control (LoC), the Karvan-e-Aman bus, operating between Srinagar and Muzaffarabad, capital of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), left here early this morning for Kaman Post, the last Indian military post on this side of the border in Uri sector. The weekly peace bus left Srinagar at 0700 hrs for security reasons to avoid any stone pelting and protests due to strike, called by separatists. The bus has since reached Kaman Post at around 0900 hrs. The bus run was not affected this time despite tense situation on the LoC, where two soldiers were killed and several others were injured when Pakistani troops violated ceasefire and targeted forward posts and civilian targets in Machil and Keran sector during the past four days. They said the exact number of passengers travelling in the bus will be known only in the afternoon as some of them will join at Trade Facilitation Centre (TFC) at Salamabad, Uri. Similarly, people coming from the PoK will have to wait at Uri before starting journey towards their respective destinations late in the night, to avoid stone pelting. Despite unrest since July 9 the bus run continued. On July 11 and 18, the bus could not operate for security reasons following strike by the separatists while on July 4 and September 12, it did not run in view of Eid festivals. However, the weekly bus service was not affected even after the Fidayeen attack on Army Brigade Headquarters at Uri on September 18, which left 19 soldiers dead and over 20 wounded. Four Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) militants, believed to be foreigners, were also killed in the encounter. The Fidayeen attack was followed by surgical attack by Indian troops across the LoC. On October 17, the peace bus could not operate due to tense situation on the LoC while on October 24, it was suspended due to some political activity in the PoK. The bus service has helped thousands of families divided due to Partition in 1947 to meet each other after India and Pakistan agreed to allow travel of state subjects from both sides on travel permits, instead of international passport. People are allowed to travel only after their names are cleared from intelligence agencies from both the sides in the bus, a major Confidence Building Measure (CBM) introduced on April 7, 2005 by India and Pakistan, will not operate much to the disappointment of passengers, who were scheduled to travel to meet their relatives separated in 1947. UNI BAS RSA SNU 1115 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0153-1021704.Xml
French journalist Olivier Bertrand has been released, his employer said today, following his arrest in Turkey which had drawn condemnation from the French government.Bertrand, who works for French news website lesjours.fr, was detained on Friday while reporting in the town of Gaziantep, just north of Turkey's border with Syria."Our journalist Olivier Bertrand is free, he is in a plane en route for Paris," lesjours said on its official Twitter page.Earlier today, French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault had demanded that Bertrand be set free. The Turkish government has been cracking down on the media following a failed coup earlier this year.The authorities have detained tens of thousands of people over alleged links to Fethullah Gulen, a cleric living in the United States who is accused of masterminding the abortive putsch - something he denies.The EU official in charge of relations with Ankara said earlier this month that Turkey's quest to join the bloc would probably fail unless it reversed its clampdown on civil rights, press freedoms and the judiciary.France had also expressed "serious concern" this month at Turkey's arrest of Kurdish lawmakers, while Ayrault voiced concern on Sunday over signs that Turkey could bring back the death penalty, something which Prime Minister Binali Yildirim has said is a possibility.Turkey abandoned the death penalty in 2002 as part of the EU accession process, although there had been no executions since 1984. REUTERS AKC 0028 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0432-1021563.Xml
President-elect Donald Trump backed away from his promise to build a wall on the US-Mexican border, saying some areas could instead be "fencing," and added he would move to deport up to 3 million immigrants in the country illegally who have criminal records.Trump, who made his pledge to force Mexico to pay for a border wall a centerpiece of his White House campaign, said "for certain areas" he would accept fencing instead of a brick-and-mortar wall, according to excerpts released today of his interview with the CBS program "60 Minutes.""But certain areas, a wall is more appropriate. I'm very good at this, it's called construction, there could be some fencing," the New York real estate developer said.Trump, who defeated Democrat Hillary Clinton in Tuesday's election and replaces Democratic President Barack Obama on January 20, also said once he takes office he would remove immigrants in the country illegally with criminal records."What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people, probably two million, it could be even three million, we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate. But we're getting them out of our country," he told "60 Minutes."During the campaign, Trump said he would deport the estimated 11 million immigrants in the country illegally, most of whom are Hispanic. In calling for the construction of a border wall, Trump said Mexico was sending criminals and rapists into the United States.Trump and his senior advisers have signaled they could be flexible on some of his campaign promises once he takes office.Republican House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan, who will play a key role in getting Trump's agenda through the Republican-led Congress, backed away from Trump's promise during the campaign of a "deportation force" to round up and deport immigrants in the country illegally."We are not planning on erecting a deportation force. Donald Trump's not planning on that," Ryan told CNN's "State of the Union" program. "I think we should put people's minds at ease. That is not what our focus is. That is not what we're focused on. We're focused on securing the border."Kevin McCarthy, the No. 2 House Republican, said on "Fox News Sunday" the wall with Mexico could in parts be a "virtual" wall patrolled by drones."You have to put a wall, it could be all virtual with the UAV airplanes as well, but I think that is doable and one of the first things that needs to be done," McCarthy said, referring to unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones.'A TRANSACTIONAL GUY'Today, senior adviser Kellyanne Conway indicated Trump would be results-oriented as he chooses his top aides, prepares his transition to the White House and gets ready to work with Congress."He'll be surrounded by people who want to get things done. Because he's a transactional guy. He's a businessman," Conway said on NBC's "Meet the Press."Ryan said he agreed with Trump's comments in a Wall Street Journal interview published on Friday that he would keep elements of President Barack Obama's signature healthcare law, known as Obamacare.Repealing and replacing the 2010 Affordable Care Act was another centerpiece of Trump's campaign. But he told the Journal that after talking to Obama at the White House on Thursday he would consider retaining provisions letting parents keep adult children up to age 26 on their insurance policies and barring insurers from denying coverage to people with pre-existing medical conditions."We can fix what is broken in healthcare without breaking what is working in healthcare," Ryan said. "Obamacare is failing. It must be replaced. We're going to do that."Ryan also sidestepped questions about Trump's plan to impose tariffs on imports from countries such as Mexico and China. Ryan said changes to tax law could accomplish the same goals "without any collateral damage to the economy."Trump, who pledged during the campaign to "drain the swamp" of corrupt insiders in the US capital, is considering a wide range of experienced Washington hands for his administration, as well as some officials with extensive lobbying experience.Conway said that experience was needed in Washington."Look, these are people who are talented and have done this before. You can't just appoint novices, you have to have people who know what they're doing. But at the same time moving forward this is an administration that's going to run very differently than typical Washington," Conway said on "Fox News Sunday."REUTERS AKC 0032 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0432-1021564.Xml
A group of migrants who hadmarched for two days from the Serbian capital Belgrade werestopped today at the border with Croatia, a European Unionmember which said would not allow illegal crossings. Some 150 migrants, reported as being mostly from Afghanistanand Pakistan, left Belgrade on Friday to walk about 125 km (80miles) to the Croatian border, demanding free and secure passageto Western Europe. Due to exhaustion and cold weather, some decided to give upthe march, media reported. But most of them, arriving at the Serbian border town ofSid, said they would wait until the frontier with Croatia wasopened and refused to be accommodated in the reception centre. "There is not a single reason why anyone should enterCroatia illegally. Croatian police will protect the border fromsuch attempts," Croatia's Interior Minister Vlaho Orepic said today after a visit to the Tovarnik border crossing near wherea group of migrants was stranded on the Serbian side. According to the UN refugee agency, around 6,400 migrantsfrom countries such as Syria, Iraq, Pakistan and Afghanistan arecurrently registered in Serbia, a candidate for EU membership. Local non-governmental organisations say their number isclose to 10,000 and they mostly arrived from Bulgaria andMacedonia. Last month, another group tried a similar march toward theHungarian border but eventually decided to return to Belgrade.Hungary, another EU member, has practically sealed its bordersto migrants. Last year, a total of 579,518 migrants and asylum seekerswere registered arriving in Serbia, out of more than a millionwho made it to Europe by land and sea. A deal between Turkey and the European Union, struck inMarch, has largely shut off the flow of people reaching Greeceand the Balkans. Austria began consultations with Balkan statesthis month to see what measures can be taken if the dealcollapses. REUTERS AKC 0055 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0432-1021569.Xml
The United Nations Security Council pushed for a peaceful transition of power in Congo during a weekend visit aimed at averting massive violence when President Joseph Kabila's mandate runs out on December 19.The visit by diplomats from countries on the council yesterday and today aimed to break the deadlock over whether Kabila should step down before an election which, thanks to slow voter registration, has been delayed until at least April 2018.He has vowed to stay on until the poll goes ahead, but the opposition accuse Kabila of manipulating the process to cling to power in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a charge his supporters deny.Several protests have erupted against Kabila, who has been in power since his father was assassinated in 2001. More than 50 people were killed in street protests in September.Security Council members stressed that Kabila's seeking to change the constitution to allow him to run for a third elected mandate, as the opposition accuse him of doing and some of his supporters suggest he might, would be no solution."The DRC is at a pivotal moment in its history," Francois Delattre, France's ambassador to the United Nations, told journalists after the meetings yesterday."For the first time, a peaceful transition of power at the end of the president's mandate is possible."Angola's ambassador to the United Nations Ismael Abraao focused more on the peaceful resolution of the crisis."We have assurances. There is a desire from everyone to avoid the worst ... The Security Council is ready to work with you so that there is peace," he said.But he added: "A third term has not been considered as a solution to the crisis. The solution lies in permanent dialogue."Leonard She Okitundu, a senator representing Kabila's ruling coalition, sought to allay fears Kabila would seek another term."There is no question of a third term because the constitution forbids it," he said. "There can be no third term."World powers fear that the political impasse over Kabila staying on beyond December 19 could reignite chaos in the vast Central African nation, where millions died in regional conflicts between 1998 and 2003.Congo stepped up patrols in its volatile east after the former military chief of a rebel group was reported missing from a camp for demobilised fighters in neighbouring Uganda, although the Ugandan military said today that Sultani Makenga was in the country's capital Kampala.As often, there appeared to be mixed messages about Kabila's intentions during the Security Council visit."UNSC asked #DRC Pres. Kabila to confirm he would not run in election. He said Constitution clear on no 3rd mandate but could be amended," Stephen Hickey, political counsellor at the UK Mission to the United Nations, tweeted yesterday."Very concerning that Pres. Kabila mentions possibility of amending constitution when asked straight question on standing for 3rd term," he said in another Tweet.REUTERS AKC 0327 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0432-1021581.Xml
Australia's prime minister said today resettlement to the United States of many of the 1,200 asylum seekers held in detention camps on Papua New Guinea and the Pacific island of Nauru will begin after President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration in January.Whether Trump honours the deal Australia reached with the outgoing Obama administration, and announced earlier this month, will provide an early test of Trump's anti-immigration stance.Campaigning for the presidency, Trump had started by advocating a blanket ban on Muslims entering the United States, but later adjusted his stance to propose that the ban should apply to people from nations that had been "compromised by terrorism".Australia's Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said yesterday that the United States had agreed to take a "substantial" number of those held on Manus Island and Nauru. Many of them are Muslims who have fled conflicts in Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan and Pakistan.Under Australia's tough border security laws, asylum seekers intercepted trying to reach the country by boat are sent for processing at the camps on Papua New Guinea's Manus island and Nauru.The resettlement deal with United States came after Turnbull's government agreed in September to accept people from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador as part of Australia's annual intake of 18,750 asylum seekers, to support a resettlement plan for Central Americans drawn up by Washington.Turnbull said today the first refugees to be resettled in the United States will not come before the Jan. 20 inauguration of President-elect Trump."The process will continue for some months. The United States won't be short-cutting their security or health checks," said Turnbull.Analysts said the timing could prove awkward for Turnbull."It looks pretty clear that the resettlement deal was done as a quid pro quo after Australia agreed to resettle Central American refugees," said Peter Chen, professor of political science, University of Sydney."But by holding off and starting the process in the expectation that Hillary Clinton would win the US presidency, it gives Trump the ability to reject the deal."Over the weekend, Trump said his administration would deport up to 3 million immigrants in the country illegally who have criminal records. While campaigning, Trump said he would deport 11 million illegal immigrants.Should Trump veto the deal with Australia, the detainees would be left with the choice of returning to their home countries or remaining in Nauru or Papua New Guinea.A veto would force Turnbull to search for another country willing to take them while facing growing outrage both at home and internationally over the treatment of the refugees.Turnbull said he remained confident that the new US administration would stand by the deal, stressing that it didn't require any increase in the United States' annual intake of asylum seekers.REUTERS SHS PM0930 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0329-1021638.Xml
The security officials said the arrested suspect was among the three suicide bombers, who had launched a coordinated attack, reports Khaama Press.
A photograph of the attacker was released by the security forces.
On November 10, a vehicle laden with heavy explosives detonated in the vicinity of the German Consulate, which damaged more than 100 homes and shops.
The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, describing it as revenge for recent air strikes in the neighbouring province of Kunduz.
Condemning the attack in strongest words, the UN mission in Afghanistan said "Attacks deliberately targeting the civilian population and violence aimed at spreading terror among civilians may amount to war crimes under customary international humanitarian law."(ANI)
United States President Barack Obama's successor Donald Trump, who has been a consistent opponent of marriage equality, has said that he is "fine" with same-sex marriage remaining legal across the country. He said in an interview that he wouldn't appoint Supreme Court judges with the goal of reversing the ruling on same sex marriage, reports the CNN. "It's irrelevant because it was already settled. It's law. It was settled in the Supreme Court. I mean it's done," he said. However, standing by his stance against abortion rights, Trump pledged to appoint judges who oppose abortion rights and oppose restrictions on Second Amendment gun rights. If the Supreme Court decision on Roe v. Wade that legalized abortion were overturned, Trump said the decisions on whether to legalize or ban abortion would return to the states. "We'll see what happens. It's got a long way to go, just so you understand. That has a long, long way to go," he said. When asked if he still knows more about the terror outfit ISIS, his often-mocked claim that he knows more than American generals about fighting ISIS, he said, "I'll be honest with you, I probably do because look at the job they've done. OK, look at the job they've done. They haven't done the job." On the issue of Electoral College, he said he favors ditching the Electoral College and handing the presidency to the winner of the popular vote despite winning more electoral votes than Hillary Clinton and losing the popular vote to her. "I'm not going to change my mind just because I won. But I would rather see it where you went with simple votes. You get 100 million votes and somebody else gets 90 million votes and you win. There's a reason for doing this because it brings all the states into play," he said. Trump also signaled that he has no real plans to change his tone even though it's seen by many as evidence of a man too combustible for the presidency. (ANI)
Bangladesh's central bank hopes to retrieve 30 million dollars more of the 81 million dollars stolen from its account at the New York Federal Reserve in February, two bank officials said today.Hackers used stolen Bangladesh Bank credentials to try to send three dozen SWIFT messages to transfer nearly 1 billion dollars from its Fed account. They succeeded in transferring 81 million dollars to four accounts at Rizal Commercial Banking Corp in Manila.Most of the money was laundered through casinos in Manila.On Friday, Philippine authorities began the process of handing over 15.25 million dollars to Bangladesh."We are hoping to get back around $30 million which remains frozen," Bangladesh Bank deputy governor Abu Hena Mohammad Razee Hassan, who heads its financial intelligence unit, told Reuters.A Bangladesh team was likely to visit the Philippines at the end of the month to accelerate the process, he said."We are expecting to get a favourable verdict from Philippines' Supreme Court as it has already been proved that $81 million is our money," said another Bangladesh Bank official, who asked not to be identified because he was not authorised to talk to the media. REUTERS SHS PM1208 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0329-1021782.Xml
Pakistan today claimed that Indian forces had killed its seven soldiers in shelling last night at Bhimber sector, across the Line of Control (LoC). Pakistan's military media wing, Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), said in a statement that seven soldiers were killed in Bhimber sector, on the Line of Control in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The ISPR said that Pakistani troops also responded to the shelling by Indian troops and targeted the Indian posts effectively. The relations between India and Pakistan have strained since the killing of terrorist Burhan Wani by Indian security forces in Kashmir, leading to unrest in the Valley, which India said, was fuelled by Pakistan.Pakistan backed terrorists have been continuously targeting security forces in the Valley for several months leading to deaths of civilians and soldiers. UNI XC CJ ADG 1649 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0400-1022219.Xml
Turkish food manufacturer Yildiz Holding today denied a media report suggesting its units were being targeted in a government operation against the cleric Ankara blames for the failed July coup, after news that sent their shares sharply lower.Yildiz, Turkey's largest food manufacturer and the owner of the Godvia chocolate brand, made the comment in an e-mailed statement to Reuters.Shares of three of its companies, including biscuit maker Ulker, investment fund Gozde Girisim and food wholesaler Bizim all fell more than 11 per cent in morning trade in Istanbul.REUTERS VS VP1632 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0440-1022204.Xml
Turkey temporarily closed a border gate with Syria today near its southeastern province of Kilis after clashes broke out across the border, security sources and the provincial governor said.The Oncupinar border gate, which lies across from Bab al Salam in Syria, is a major conduit for traffic between opposition-held northern Syria and Turkey. It lies close to the Syrian town of Azaz, controlled by Turkish-backed rebels.Kilis governor Ismail Catakli said the border was closed temporarily to humanitarian aid and commercial traffic due to developments on the Syrian side. Security sources said it was unclear how long the border would remain closed.Turkey launched an incursion into Syria in August in support of largely Turkmen and Arab rebel fighters to try to drive Islamic State away from its border and prevent Kurdish militia groups from seizing ground in their wake. REUTERS VS AS1726 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0440-1022346.Xml
Syrian rebels backed by Turkey were poised to begin an assault to try to drive Islamic State from the Syrian city of al-Bab, two of their commanders said today, a battle that could also prompt new fighting with Kurdish groups that are competing for the area.Further escalation in the complex, multi-sided conflict in northern Syria has the potential to undermine a campaign supported by an international coalition led by the United States to oust Islamic State from its Syrian capital of Raqqa.Al-Bab is fast becoming a major faultline in the war in northern Syria, bringing Free Syrian Army rebels backed by Turkish armour closer than ever to frontlines held by the Syrian government and its Iranian and Russian allies in nearby Aleppo."There is nothing between us and al-Bab," said one of the rebels, a commander in one of the groups fighting under the Free Syrian Army (FSA) banner taking part in the Turkey-backed Euphrates Shield operation in north Syria that began in August."If not in hours then in a very few days we will be inside al-Bab," the commander told Reuters, declining to be identified.The Britain-based war monitor, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights on Monday cited residents saying areas surrounding al-Bab were being struck by Turkish and FSA artillery. Another FSA commander who identified himself by the nom de guerre, Abu Assad Dabiq, said rebels were less than 3 km away.The main struggle in Syria's civil war pits President Bashar al-Assad, backed by Russia, Iran and Shi'ite militias against Sunni rebels backed by Turkey, the United States and Gulf monarchies. They are all fighting against Islamic State.Further complicating the warfare in northern Syria, Turkey and the FSA rebel groups it backs are also set against a Kurdish-dominated alliance of militias that has fought Islamic State since 2015 and recently began a campaign to take Raqqa.GOVERNMENT ALLIES' WARNINGAl-Bab is located 30 km south of Syria's border with Turkey and the same distance from Aleppo, meaning its capture could help rebels to advance against pro-government forces besieging their comrades inside the city.The city of al-Bab had a population of 63,000 before the war according to a 2004 census by Syria's Central Bureau of Statistics and is a hub for major roads in the region north of Aleppo."God willing with the capture of al-Bab, we will be on the outskirts of the (Aleppo) industrial zone and the outskirts of the Kweiras air port, and the outskirts of the infantry college, meaning in direct contact with the regime," the rebel commander, who declined to be identified, said.However, allies of the Syrian government late last month warned Turkey against an advance towards their positions to the north and east of Aleppo, saying any such move would be met "decisively and with force".The Syrian government is backed by the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, Lebanon's Hezbollah and other Shi'ite militia.Al-Bab also sits between two Kurdish-ruled enclaves and its capture would thwart Kurdish ambitions to join them, something some Syrian Kurds regard as necessary to advance their goal of protecting Kurdish autonomy in northern Syria.While Turkey's launch of the Euphrates Shield campaign in August was partly aimed at pushing Islamic State from border areas after the jihadist group shelled Turkish towns, it was also intended to prevent the Kurdish enclaves from joining.RAQQA CAMPAIGNAnkara regards the main Kurdish militia group YPG as being an extension of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which has fought a three-decade insurgency inside Turkey and is listed by the United States and European Union as a terrorist group.The YPG and allied groups have also tried to advance towards al-Bab in recent months from their two enclaves to the west and east but remain about 20 km away on each side.The YPG is the strongest element of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a US-backed alliance of armed groups fighting against Islamic State which last week began an offensive against territory held by the jihadist group north of Raqqa.Turkey and the YPG have both insisted that the other should have no part in the Raqqa campaign.The push against Raqqa has already been complicated by concerns that the central role of Kurds in the battle for the mostly Arab city would play into Islamic State propaganda.Last week, the Liwa Thuwwar al-Raqqa, one of the few Arab groups involved in the fighting in that area said it would not take part in the campaign because there were too few Arabs involved."We are not satisfied that the campaign should start this way," Mahmoud al-Hadi, head of the group's political office, told Reuters.Jihan Sheikh Ahmed, the spokeswoman for the SDF's Raqqa offensive, in comments to reporters on a social networking site on Saturday said she believed there were "sufficient" Arabs taking part in the campaign.The United States has said Arabs must play the central role in any push to take Raqqa.Turkey has also said that after the Euphrates Shield operation captures al-Bab, it will target Manbij, a city 40 km to the east that has been held by forces allied to the SDF for months.That could prompt a much wider escalation between Turkey and Kurdish groups that could in turn foil efforts by the United States to orchestrate an SDF assault on Islamic State in Raqqa."As for what is happening in al-Bab, it has an impact one way or another on our campaign," said Ahmed of the Raqqa offensive.REUTERS VS AS1802 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0440-1022452.Xml
The European Union said today it would keep pushing to restore ties with Iran in line with last year's nuclear deal, which US President-elect Donald Trump has said he will rescind. Trump has raised the prospect that the United States will pull out of the pact, calling it a "disaster" and "the worst deal ever negotiated" during campaigning for the White House, although he has conceded it would be hard to destroy a deal enshrined in a United Nations resolution. The deal curbs Iran's nuclear programme in return for the easing of Western sanctions and came after years of standoff and growing fears in the West that Iran was seeking to develop nuclear weapons. Iran denies that its nuclear programme has military aims. "The European Union reiterates its resolute commitment to the (Iran nuclear deal)," the bloc's foreign ministers said in a statement in Brussels. "The European Union is committed to support the full and effective implementation ... by the lifting of nuclear related economic and financial sanctions and engaging with the private sector and economic operators, especially banks, to promote growth in trade and investment." Despite concerns over human rights in Iran, the bloc is seeking to open a diplomatic mission there and senior EU officials have visited for talks on issues from trade and investment to migration and humanitarian aid.MORE REUTERS VS BD1805 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0440-1022466.Xml
Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Barack Obama may discuss Syria on the sidelines of APEC summit in Lima (Peru), on November 19-20, Kremlin's Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said today.However, Mr Peskov made it clear that so far, no contacts are planned between Mr Putin and Mr Barack, saying that the two leaders could meet on the sidelines of APEC summit."It is clear that if talks are held, it cannot be ruled out : The Syrian crisis is one of the most urgent issues," he told RIA Novosti."No contacts with Obama have been scheduled yet. At the same time, they are both likely to be in Peru on the sidelines of the APEC summit. Certainly, it cannot be ruled out that they will hold talks on the sidelines. It is difficult to say whether it will be a full-format conversation," Peskov said.He also said that there were no plans yet for a meeting between Mr Putin and US President-elect Donald Trump.UNI XC CJ RJ 1842 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0400-1022498.Xml
Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambayev raised the stakes in his standoff with political rival Omurbek Tekebayev today, ordering prosecutors to look into corruption allegations against Tekebayev, which the parliament deputy denies.The deepening rift between two political heavyweights could destabilise the volatile Central Asian nation which has seen two leaders overthrown by violent protests since 2005.Tekebayev, who had previously backed pro-Russian Atambayev and was a member of his parliamentary coalition until last month, has become one of the main critics of the president after Atambayev proposed to boost the powers of the executive.Today, Atambayev's office said the state security service had obtained documents from the government of Belize showing Tekebayev, along with two other people, was set to benefit from a sale of assets by an offshore company.Atambayev's office said the offshore company was believed to be owned by the family of ex-president Kurmanbek Bakiyev, who was deposed and fled the country in 2010. The sale mentioned in the documents never took place because the government nationalised the assets in question.Tekebayev denied any wrongdoing and said the move was politically motivated. The two other people mentioned in the Belize papers are members of his Ata Meken party and served as prosecutor general and justice minister respectively in April 2012, the date on the document published by the president's office."This is 100 percent fake," he told Reuters. "This is a primitive provocation they have come up with... because we oppose the referendum (on executive powers)".The mostly Muslim nation of 6 million will vote in a national referendum on Dec. 11 on a package of changes to the constitution which boost the powers of prime minister and the executive in general.Atambayev's opponents have said the reform could allow him to become a powerful prime minister once he steps down as president next year. Atambayev, 60, who is not allowed to run for a second term, has denied having such plans.Both Atambayev and Tekebayev were among the leaders of the 2005 and 2010 protests and open confrontation between the two could lead to another wave of instability in the former Soviet republic which hosts a Russian military airbase. REUTERS VS AS1912 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0440-1022638.Xml
Turkish warplanes struck 15 targets in the al Bab area of northern Syria on Sunday in an operation with Syrian rebels to drive Islamic State militants out of the region, the Turkish military said today.Ten Islamic State defensive positions, command centres and an ammunition store were destroyed in the strikes, the army said in a statement. Nine Syrian rebels were killed during clashes in the region. REUTERS SHS PM1119 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0329-1021718.Xml
Police said nine people were killed in clashes between Shi'ite Muslims and police during a religious procession in northern Nigeria today, but the minority sect said dozens of its members lost their lives.The clashes occurred on the outskirts of Kano, a city in a state of the same name, as members of the country's largest Shi'ite group, the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), conducted an annual procession to Zaria in neighbouring Kaduna state.It was the latest in a series of incidents involving the sect. A judicial inquiry in August reported that 347 IMN members were killed and buried in mass graves after clashes with the army in December 2015, and two sect members were killed in processions in Kaduna state last month.Kano state Police Commissioner Rabiu Yusuf told reporters that nine people died in Monday's violence - eight IMN members and a policeman. He said several people were injured, including four police officers."At first we used tear gas on them. They attacked one of our personnel, who sustained a fatal injury," he said. Yusuf said IMN members used the dead policeman's weapon to fire at officers and they had "no option" but to use live ammunition in response.Ibrahim Musa, a spokesman for the IMN - whose 1980s founders were inspired by the Islamic Revolution in Shi'ite Iran - said policemen opened fire on a peaceful crowd and killed "close to" 100 people including women and children."We view the unwarranted killings by the police as a continuation of the army pogrom started in Zaria last year," he said. The exact death toll was unclear, he added, because most of the bodies were "ferried away by the police, possibly for mass burial".Last month the Kaduna state government declared IMN as an "unlawful society" on the grounds that its processions were a danger to peace, and said anyone convicted of being a member of the sect could be imprisoned for up to seven years.Human Rights Watch estimates that IMN has around 3 million members. The sect's leader, Sheikh Ibrahim Zakzaky, has been held without charge since December following the clashes with the army in Zaria.Security analysts have drawn some parallels between the IMN and Boko Haram, the Sunni Muslim jihadist group whose insurgency began in 2009 after security forces killed hundreds of its members and its leader Mohammed Yusuf died in custody.Nigeria, which has 180 million people and is Africa's most populous nation, combines a predominantly Christian south and mainly Sunni Muslim north. Around 250 ethnic groups have co-existed mostly peacefully in the country. REUTERS AKC 2356 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0432-1022940.Xml
UNITED NATIONS, Nov. 13 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Sunday commends the efforts by the government of Colombia and the rebel group to signed a revised peace accord Saturday after years of negotiations and a half a century of conflict.
"The secretary-general commends the efforts by the government of Colombia and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia-People's Army (FARC-EP) to conclude a modified peace agreement that incorporates many of the proposals of the groups representing Colombians who voted 'No' in the 2 October plebiscite," said a statement issued here by Ban's spokesman.
The secretary-general also acknowledged the many groups and individuals in Colombian society who came forth with proposals to modify the texts and who took part constructively in the dialogue process, the statement said.
"Throughout this exercise, Colombians have listened to one another and have reaffirmed their collective desire for peace," the statement said. "They now have a new opportunity to go forward on this road to peace more unified than before."
Meanwhile, the secretary-general also commended the parties for maintaining firm their commitment to the cease-fire and cessation of hostilities, said the statement. "He reaffirms the support of the United Nations for the peace process and hopes that the focus of efforts can turn as soon as possible to the implementation of a final peace agreement."
The new pact seeks to overcome the impasse after the previous agreement discussed for four years in Havana, capital of Cuba, was rejected by a slight margin in an Oct. 2 referendum in Colombia.
A peace deal negotiated earlier this year with FARC rebels was unexpectedly defeated by Colombian voters in October. Many were angered by what they saw as insufficient punishment for those who perpetrated a litany of crimes against their people.
Negotiations for a peace deal continued after the defeat with rebels and those opposed to the original agreement.
The conflict in Colombia has left more than 260,000 people dead and displaced millions of others since 1964.
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has named Republican National Committee (RNC) chairman Reince Priebus as his chief of staff, according to an official statement released Sunday.
Trump's campaign manager Stephen Bannon will serve as his chief strategist and senior counselor, the statement said.
"I am thrilled to have my very successful team continue with me in leading our country," Trump said in the statement.
Both Priebus and Bannon expressed their gratitude and eagerness to help Trump "achieve his agenda."
The appointment was the first important government personnel arrangement Trump has made since his election on Wednesday. He has previously named his running mate Mike Pence to chair his transition team.
Priebus, 44, is a Wisconsin native who became the RNC chairman in 2011. he is said to have good relationships with both Trump and House Speaker Paul Ryan, a quality that is seen crucial to mend any possible differences between the White House and the Congress.
Bannon, 62, is a media executive who became Trump's campaign manager in August. He is also the chief of Breitbart News, a right-leaning U.S. news outlet that supported Trump during the presidential elections.
Trump is due to ascend to presidency on Jan. 20.
RAMALLAH, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- The Palestinian National Authority (PNA) slammed the Israeli government on Sunday for its decision to legalize settlement outposts and prevent loudspeakers calls for prayers in the West Bank.
Nabil Abu Rdineh, an aide to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said in an official statement that "the Israeli measures will drag the entire region into disasters."
He also said that "these measures are totally rejected," and warned that the PNA will go to the United Nations Security Council and all other international agencies to prevent the escalated Israeli measures."
Settlement is one of the most sticky issues that obstructed the resumption of the peace process that had been stalled since April 2014. Since then, the Palestinians and the Israelis were unable to resume their peace talks.
Reyad al-Malki, the PNA minister of foreign affairs told earlier "Voice of Palestine" Radio that the Israeli government "is trying to make use of the current international and regional atmospheres by legalizing its settlements."
However, he said that France is determined to hold the international conference for peace in the Middle East to end the current Israeli-Palestinian conflict before the end of this year.
He stressed that France will keep going on with its measures to hold the conference in spite of Israel' s opposition to the idea, adding that a French envoy is expected to visit in the Palestinian territories to discuss holding the conference.
"The Palestinian side will present to the French envoy a list of the countries the Palestinians wish to invite to the international peace conference," said al-Malki, adding that "all issues related to holding the conference will be debated."
The senior Palestinian diplomat said the Palestinian side applied to Egypt asking for holding a meeting with the Arab Ministerial Quartet to discuss the question of settlements, "but until now, the Egyptian side didn't respond to our request."
Photo taken on Nov. 14, 2016 (local time) shows a living room of a house in Wellington, New Zealand. A major earthquake rocked South Island of New Zealand in the wee hours of Monday, followed by a series of strong aftershocks and a tsunami warning. (Xinhua)
WELLINGTON, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Emergency services were trying to reopen communications and transport to the tourist town of Kaikoura after a deadly earthquake rocked much of New Zealand early Monday.
Roads into Kaikoura, on the northeast coast of the South Island, were blocked by landslides after the 7.5-magnitude quake hit just after midnight.
Police confirmed the two deaths, saying emergency services were still working at the scenes.
One fatality occurred at a property at Mount Lyford, north of Christchurch, on the east of the South Island, and the other at a reported collapsed property in Kaikoura.
Medical rescue helicopters and the air force planes were flying into Kaikoura, a popular tourist destination famed for its coastal scenery and whale-watching activities.
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) said it had mobilized at least three of its aircraft to support the government's response to the severe quake.
Air Commodore Darryn Webb said an air force NH90 helicopter was supporting relief efforts and a P-3K2 Orion surveillance aircraft was surveying main transport routes and towns from Picton, on the top of the South Island, to the second city of Christchurch.
Another NH90 helicopter and other aircraft were on standby for other tasks, including conducting an aerial survey of areas in the Kaikoura region, which suffered the brunt of the earthquake, Webb said in a statement.
A New Zealand Police spokesperson told Xinhua that emergency services had no information on how many, if any, overseas travellers were in Kaikoura when the quake struck.
"We don't have any information on specific individuals/groups who are in Kaikoura, but can confirm that Kaikoura is currently not accessible by road - so everyone there is stuck - locals and tourists alike," the spokesperson said.
"Government agencies are working together to provide support to people affected by the quake, including those in Kaikoura."
Prime Minister John Key and Acting Civil Defence Minister Gerry Brownlee said it was impossible to rule out further fatalities.
"On the very best information we have at the moment, we think it's only likely to be two, but of course there are isolated parts of the country in which we don't have perfect eyes on so we can't be 100 percent sure, but we're not aware of any that we're not reporting," said Key.
"We don't have any indications at this point to believe that will rise, but we obviously can't rule that out because what's going to happen now as we have daylight is we can do a proper assessment. Communities will obviously go out and reach out to their neighbors and their friends and their workmates to get a sense of the damage and making sure people get support."
Structural engineers were also checking buildings in the capital, Wellington, where the quake was felt strongly.
The quake was centered 15 km northeast of Culverden, on the east of the South Island, and struck at 12:02 a.m. on Monday, according to the government's GeoNet monitoring service.
The quake was 15 km deep and was felt widely throughout New Zealand.
It is being followed by many aftershocks, the largest of them a magnitude of 6.2.
The Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management (MCDEM) issued a tsunami warning along most of the country's eastern coasts after the initial earthquake and urged residents to move to higher ground.
The first tsunami waves had arrived, but it was too early to know what damage or casualties there might have been, said a statement from the MCDEM.
"Further waves should be expected and may be larger or more dangerous," it said.
The tsunami warning was later downgraded to a marine and beach threat, but the MCDEM still urged people to stay off beaches, stay out of the water, and not go sightseeing.
New Zealand is frequently rattled by earthquakes, most of which do no damage and cause no injuries, but Monday's quake brought back memories of the 6.3-magnitude quake which killed 185 people in Christchurch in February 2011.
WELLINGTON, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand Prime Minister John Key has called off talks in Argentina this week as his government deals with the aftermath of a deadly earthquake.
Key said on Monday that he had postponed a trip to Buenos Aires Tuesday for a series of meetings aimed at strengthening New Zealand's trade, economic and political ties with South America.
However, he would attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting in Peru on Nov. 19-20 if circumstances permitted.
At least two people were killed when a 7.5-magnitude quake centered on the northeast of the South Island rocked much of New Zealand just after midnight Monday.
It has been followed by hundreds of aftershocks.
"The situation is still unfolding and we don't yet know the full extent of the damage," Key said in a statement.
"I believe it is better that I remain in New Zealand in the coming days to offer my assistance and support until we have a better understanding of the event's full impact," he said.
"My officials have conveyed our apologies to the Argentine government and I intend to call President Mauricio Macri in the next few days," Key said.
The decision on whether the trip to APEC would go ahead would be made later this week.
CANBERRA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Beef and live cattle represent Australia's biggest agricultural exports for the first time, a report has found.
The report, released by the Rural Bank on Monday, revealed that beef and live cattle exports were worth 8.6 billion U.S. dollars of Australia's total agricultural exports of 34.7 billion U.S. dollars in the financial year ending in 2016.
It marks the first time that beef exports have been worth more to the Australian economy than crop products, which were worth 7.7 billion U.S. dollars.
The growth of the agricultural export market, up from 33.4 billion U.S. dollars in the financial year ending 2015, came despite widespread drought throughout Australia causing downturns in cotton (26 percent), wool (9 percent) and beef (13 percent) export volumes.
The Rural Bank report said that horticultural exports were the biggest improvers, up 30 percent in value to 1.58 billion U.S. dollars, led by the almond industry which has experienced a 337-percent in export growth in the past five years.
A growing appetite for Australian goods in China, best exhibited by the growth in table grape exports from 11 million U.S. dollars in 2014/2015 to 77 million U.S. dollars to China alone in 2015/2016, was largely responsible for the strong agricultural year.
Andrew Smith, general manager of agribusiness for the Rural Bank, said that there were even brighter prospects ahead as the Asian food boom escalated.
"There remain further opportunities in Asia outside our major trading partners in Japan and China," Smith told News Limited on Monday. "Indonesia, Vietnam and India all have huge populations,"
Other industries which shone in 2015-16 were wine, up 10 percent to 1.6 billion U.S. dollars, seafood which rose 10 percent to 1.06 billion U.S. dollars and prepared foods which rose 42 percent to 2.56 billion U.S. dollars.
China, the United States and Japan receive 39 percent of all Australian agri-food exports.
CANBERRA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Australian authorities are trawling through Facebook and other social media to identify and prosecute tax cheats.
Chris Jordan, Commissioner of the Australian Tax Office (ATO), said his organization had invested in data collection analysis of social media platforms to find cases of people's declared incomes not matching their lifestyles as part of a multi-faceted crackdown.
The social media posts, in addition to private school records and immigration data, have unveiled dozens of cases of undeclared foreign income being used to pay private school fees or for overseas holidays, netting the ATO 7.2 billion U.S. dollars in 2015.
"It's also a reality of the age we live in that there is more and more information publicly available, particularly through social media," Jordan said on Monday.
"Of course, we'll never go looking for this information where people are doing the right thing and are open with us. We only go looking when something just doesn't add up."
The ATO said that the gap between the tax that would be paid if all income was declared and the actual amount collected was 141.3 billion U.S. dollars in the financial year ending in 2016.
"Lots of little amounts add up to a lot," Jordan told News Limited.
"We need to continue to support those who do the right thing, and identify and take action against those who choose not to."
Jordan gave an example of a married couple who declared total income of 105,000 U.S. dollars for the year but had three children at private schools at an estimated total annual cost of 56,000 U.S. dollars and had recently purchased five business-class flights for a holiday to the Whistler ski resort in Canada.
"If our intelligence from immigration shows that the family of five flew business class three times in the last few years, and their social media posts show photos of the family on a ski holiday in Whistler, this will prompt us to contact them to ask more questions," Jordan said.
"People say 'well how do you know about that?' They can't dispute it because the kids are at that school and a lot of it is public information."
KUALA LUMPUR, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia and Singapore are likely to sign an official bilateral agreement on the much anticipated high speed rail project linking the two countries in December, local media reported Monday.
Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak and his Singaporean counterpart Lee Hsien Loong are expected to witness the signing of the legally binding agreement during their annual talks early next month, the New Straits Times reported.
The signing of the agreement would pave the way for construction to start in 2018, the report said. Malaysia and Singapore had said they were targeting operations by 2026.
The two countries inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in July for further negotiations on the details of the project, which would cut the traveling time between the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur and the city state to 90 minutes.
The MoU captures key points of agreement between the two countries on the project such as the details on technical parameter, commercial model as well as custom, immigration, quarantine (CIQ) clearance, safety and security matters, regulatory framework and project management.
Railway companies from China, Japan and Europe have long expressed interests in this major infrastructure project.
by Chen Jin, Lin Huifen
CHISINAU, Nov. 13 (Xinhua) -- Socialist candidate Igor Dodon led his rightist rival Maia Sandu by over 5 percentage points in Moldova's presidential runoff on Sunday, after 99.47 percent of the votes were counted.
Dodon, leader of the Socialist Party, picked up 52.57 percent of the votes, while the common right-wing candidate Sandu got 47.43 percent of the ballots, according to latest data of the Central Election Commission.
Local analysts believe Dodon's victory is already guaranteed, though there are still ballots to be counted.
"I promise I will be President for everyone, for those who see themselves as right-wing and for those who see themselves as left-wing, for those who want EU integration and for those who want close relations with Russia," the 41-year-old main opposition leader told a press conference after midnight, stressing that he had realized the responsibility he would bear as head of state.
The Socialist leader also addressed Moldovans living abroad, promising to take into account the problems they face.
Earlier, the rival Sandu, leader of the Action and Solidarity Party, told the media soon after the closing of polls that the runoff was organized badly, there weren't enough ballots at some polling stations and many people were unable to vote.
The Action and Solidarity Party is a party outside the parliament founded by 44-year-old Sandu after leaving her post as education minister last year.
Sandu complained that her team had earlier asked for setting up additional polling stations for Moldovan residents abroad, but their requests were ignored.,
Sandu was echoed by his contender Dodon, who also criticized the way in which the elections were organized.
"In Europe, Russia and Transnistria (a breakaway region of Moldova), thousands of people were forced to go home without voting as there were insufficient polling stations and a shortage of ballots," said the Socialist leader.
"I have repeatedly warned the Central Election Commission of the need to open an additional number of polling stations where the diaspora is widely represented, namely the Russian Federation. They did not," Dodon added.
"Now the CEC and other institutions will have to answer for it," he stressed.
Moldova held the presidential runoff on Sunday, as none of the nine candidates competing in the presidential race received an absolute majority of the votes (50 percent, plus one vote) in the first round of direct presidential elections on Oct. 30, a change from the past 16 years during which the head of state was indirectly elected by the parliament.
The voter turnout at the runoff, which ended at 9:00 p.m. local time (1900 GMT) in the country, was over 53 percent, some 5 percent more than that at the first round two weeks ago.
The presidential elections are generally viewed in the country as a battle between pro-Russian and pro-EU camps.
Landlocked between Romania and Ukraine, the former Soviet republic is still shrouded in the shadow of a corruption scandal in which a total of 1 billion U.S. dollars, or around 10 percent of the country's gross domestic product (GDP), disappeared from its banking system.
The scandal sparked large-scale protests last year, eroding the confidence in pro-European politicians that have led the country since 2009 and has partially contributed to the Socialists' gain in popularity.
SYDNEY, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- The China Chamber of Commerce in Australia is looking to build on the steady growth and achievements of its members' Australian investments for the past decade, including expanding their reach to all parts of the country and involving more local businesses in its network.
The chamber's chairman, Hu Shanjun, who is also general manager and country head of Australia, Bank of China, said Chinese investment as seen through the chamber members' work has proven to be a "win-win" situation.
"We've steadily grown bigger, with more members, most of which are Chinese businesses," said Hu, who was speaking in an interview with Xinhua, together with other leading representatives from a number of chamber members, at Bank of China's Sydney headquarters.
"We encompass a wide range of industries and sectors, from the financial sector, to aviation, agriculture, steel and mining."
The China Chamber of Commerce in Australia is marking its 10th anniversary this year, with major celebrations for the milestone lined up at The Westin Sydney on Nov 15. The non-profit organization has grown to include 289 members across New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia and Queensland.
By the end of September, the chamber's Sydney branch had 127 members and its Melbourne branch had 57. All its members form a major part of Chinese investment in Australia, which hit 74.9 billion Australian dollars in 2015, according to the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The organization aims to provide services that include helping to protect the legal rights of its members as well as promoting the development of bilateral trade and economic exchanges. It also serves as a bridge between China and Australia to facilitate the business development of its members as a major role.
"Next year, firstly, we'll be looking at expanding our work to all states beyond the four that we currently have presence in, to the rest of the country, to grow our role and investment. That includes South Australia, Tasmania, the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory," Hu said.
"Secondly, we'll definitely be looking at including more Australian companies, Australian members. There's a lot of potential in that. Most of our members are Chinese companies now. But I've actually spoken to a number of Australian industry players and businesses, such as those from the financial sector, and they've expressed keen interest in joining us and playing a role."
That will certainly build on the work of the chamber so far, Hu said.
"Our businesses have helped with a lot of jobs here, it's contributed a lot to the economy, in terms of taxes and beyond. We've also spent much time and made a lot of effort to contribute to society, including corporate social responsibility, facilities, public welfare and education projects," he said.
Other chamber members similarly highlighted the contributions of their association to the Australian economy, as well as the benefits and rewarding experience they reaped from doing business in the country.
The chamber's deputy chairman, Wang Ji, the president of resources and minerals assets development company Sino Mining Australia Pty Ltd, a member of leading global metals and minerals conglomerate China Minmetals Corporation now possessing a vertically integrated, trade-based and resource-backed production chain, cited one prominent case of "saving" a beleaguered Australian company.
"Following the acquisition of the majority of Oz Minerals by China Minmetals, carried out just about a year after the 2008 financial crisis, a number of measures were rolled out to help the new Minerals and Metals Group deal with the transition and changes in the sector. In a way, that significantly helped the troubled Oz Minerals, the company and its staff," Wang said.
Leo Liu, general manager of CCIC Australia, which focuses on services of accreditation, inspection and testing of Australian exports to China, said his work actually involves helping to keep both the Chinese and Australian sides "happy."
"Local companies that approach us for help, mostly small- and medium-sized, and industrial associations such as Wine Australia and Dairy Australia, expressed their concerns particularly in registration and certification to get their products to Chinese consumers," Liu said.
"For example, about two years ago, some Australian grape batches exported to China were found to contain pests during routine inspections. The head of the relevant association came to us for help. We gave them advice and actually helped them resolve the problem. We referred their problems to related Chinese authorities for verification so that their exports could be resumed, after measures were taken to ensure the quality and safety of their products.
"We are familiar with the standards and we can help both sides communicate effectively so that business can be conducted successfully. We are now upgrading a traceability system to trace the origin of Australian exports so that a better channel can be built to facilitate Sino-Australia trade," Liu said.
Members also lauded the positive Australian investment environment and spoke highly of its transparency.
Zhang Baocai, who chairs coal mining giant Yancoal Australia's executive committee, said Australia boasts a developed economic environment where businesses are protected by a sound legal system.
"It's safe to invest here. We've been here for more than 10 years and overall, for a Chinese company to be here, we've learned and benefited a lot in terms of the legal framework, management, human resources and other areas," Zhang said.
He also allayed recent fears that Chinese companies such as Yancoal might gain too much control of Australian assets or resources.
"We're operating a market-driven enterprise in line with global economic forces," Zhang said.
"Some mistakenly believe, for instance, that we corner the resources and direct them back home. But our main markets include Japan, South Korea and India.
"It's totally transparent and it's all part of a positive experience that we get from doing business here. All of that is facilitated by important two-way exchanges and open communication."
Hu, of Bank of China, believed the China Chamber of Commerce in Australia, from its initial stages to the present, has done a lot of work and put in a lot of effort to build China-Australia, people-to-people links.
"We'll certainly continue to do all of that going forward, to play an active role and continue contributing."
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BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping's upcoming visit to Latin America (LatAm) is expected to improve the all-round cooperative partnership and usher in a new era of bilateral relations.
Xi will pay state visits to Ecuador, Peru and Chile from Nov. 17 to Nov. 23, and attend the 24th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting from Nov. 19 to 20 in Lima, Peru.
This will be Xi's third visit to Latin America since he took the presidency in March 2013, and the visit to Ecuador will be the first since diplomatic relations between the two countries began in 1980.
The visit shows that China and LatAm are striving for win-win cooperation and common development under the principles of mutual trust, mutual benefit and mutual learning.
During Xi's visit, China will discuss free trade arrangements and cooperation in e-commerce, production capacity, industrial parks and infrastructure.
At present, affected by a weaker global market and the falling prices of commodities, LatAm needs capital and technology to improve its manufacturing capabilities, reduce its dependence on the export of raw materials and boost economic transformation.
As China has cost-effective equipment, and LatAm needs infrastructure and industrial upgrading, Xi's visit comes at a time when there are ample opportunities to expand the current relationship.
In fact, China-LatAm ties have been improving. Back in July 2014, Xi and leaders from the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) announced the establishment of the China-CELAC Forum. In January 2015, China and the CELAC inked a five-year cooperation plan at the first ministerial meeting of the cooperation forum in Beijing.
The cooperation forum marked a new era of mutual benefit and common development and improved bilateral cooperation in various fields.
In the political sphere, ties have been propelled forward by the exchanges of high-level visits. Peru, the first country in the LatAm region to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership with China, will be Xi's second leg of the visit. Xi's visit to Peru comes hot on the heels of Peruvian President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski's state visit to China in September, which was his first state visit since he assumed the presidency.
Such frequent high-level visits are sure to consolidate traditional friendship and pave the way for future cooperation.
Chile, the last leg of Xi's visit, has always led relations with China. It was the first South American nation to forge diplomatic ties with China, the first LatAm country that signed a bilateral accord with China on China's membership to the World Trade Organization and signed a free trade agreement with China.
In the economic and trade sector, trade volume between China and LatAm has risen more than twenty-fold during the past decade to hit 236.5 billion U.S. dollars in 2015. Currently, China is the second largest trade partner and third largest investment source country of LatAm, while LatAm is China's seventh largest trade partner.
As an emerging economy and the largest developing country in the world, China has always stood with developing countries and performed its due responsibilities commensurate with its status as a global economic power.
China provided cash support of two million dollars and humanitarian aid worth 9.2 million dollars to Ecuador after a fatal earthquake killed 668 people, injured 4,859 and displaced around 80,000 in April.
Furthermore, China provided financial and technical support to help LatAm countries bridge the infrastructure deficit.
Thanks to China's financial support, the Coca Codo Sinclair hydroelectric plant, the largest hydroelectric plant ever constructed by a Chinese company, in northeast Ecuador, is expected to generate 1,500 megawatts of energy and meet 30 percent of Ecuador's demand.
The plant, along with others built by Chinese companies, will help Ecuador transform from a power-hungry country into a clean energy exporter and greatly contribute to the country's economic development.
Within the framework of the China-CELAC Forum, cooperation has also flourished in other areas like education, people-to-people exchanges and culture.
China promised LatAm and Caribbean countries 6,000 government scholarships within five years from 2014.
In addition, various cultural activities have been run in China and LatAm to boost mutual understanding and consolidate the basis for a lasting friendship. Moreover, 2016 is the "Year of Cultural Exchanges" between China and the region.
It is believed that Xi's visit will consolidate the traditional friendship, promote common development and build a community of shared destiny between China and LatAm.
TOKYO, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Japan's economy grew an annualized 2.2 percent in real terms in the July-September quarter, expanding for the third consecutive quarter, the government said on Monday.
The growth, partly attributed to an export recovery, came in stronger than the average market expectations for an annualized 0.8 percent expansion, according to data issued by Japan's Cabinet Office.
Analysts here, however, are generally concerned about the difficulty Japanese economy is facing, due to weak domestic demands and the stronger yen, as well as the uncertainty of global economic outlook following Donald Trump's victory in the U.S. presidential election.
Japan's exports in the July-September quarter increased 2.0 percent, following a 1.5 percent fall in the April-June period. The imports, however, were down 0.6 percent in the recording period.
Private consumption, which accounts for roughly 60 percent of GDP, posted a modest 0.1 percent growth in real terms, unchanged from the second quarter.
Capital expenditure, another key component of GDP, was almost flat, reflecting worries about the global outlook and the stronger yen among Japanese companies, despite efforts of the government and the central bank to encourage them to invest more.
In nominal terms, the economy expanded an annualized 0.8 percent compared to the previous quarter.
DHAKA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will attend the High-Level Segment of the twenty-second session of the Conference of the Parties (COP22) to be held in Morocco on Nov. 15-16.
According to a statement of the Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs received here Monday, King Mohammed VI of Morocco has especially invited Bangladeshi prime minister for this event.
Hasina will be accompanied by a high profile delegation comprising minister of Water Resources, minister of Environment & Forests and minister for Foreign Affairs, as well as high officials of the government, it said.
In her national statement at the Marrakech Summit, Bangladeshi prime minster is expected to re-emphasize Bangladesh's resolve and determination in this regard, highlighting the initiatives and measures undertaken by the government in tackling the menaces of climate change, according to the statement.
She is expected to return to Dhaka on Nov. 16.
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Photo taken on Nov. 14, 2016 (local time) shows a living room of a house in Wellington, New Zealand. A major earthquake rocked South Island of New Zealand in the wee hours of Monday, followed by a series of strong aftershocks and a tsunami warning. (Xinhua)
KAIKOURA, New Zealand, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Prime Minister John Key has described scenes of "utter devastation" around the tourist town of Kaikoura and nearby areas after a deadly earthquake rocked much of New Zealand early Monday.
Emergency services were trying to restore power and water supply, and reopen communications and transport to Kaikoura, on the northeast coast of the South Island.
Roads into the town were blocked by landslides after the 7.5-magnitude quake hit just after midnight.
Medical rescue helicopters and the air force planes were flying into Kaikoura, a popular tourist destination famed for its coastal scenery and whale-watching activities.
Police confirmed the two deaths, saying emergency services were still working at the scenes.
One fatality occurred at a property at Mount Lyford, north of Christchurch, on the east of the South Island, and the other at a reported collapsed property in Kaikoura.
Meanwhile, a dam on the Clarence River, just north of Kaikoura, breached on Monday, releasing a "large wall of water."
Local residents were urged to move to higher ground after a wall of water was sweeping down the river, breaking through the earthquake debris, Radio New Zealand reported.
State-owned television network TVNZ reported about 1,200 tourists were stranded in Kaikoura and the government was looking at ways to get them out.
However, a New Zealand Police spokesperson told Xinhua that emergency services had no information on how many overseas travellers were in Kaikoura when the quake struck.
"We don't have any information on specific individuals/groups who are in Kaikoura, but can confirm that Kaikoura is currently not accessible by road - so everyone there is stuck - locals and tourists alike," the spokesperson said.
"Government agencies are working together to provide support to people affected by the quake, including those in Kaikoura."
According to the Chinese consulate general in Christchurch, the first batch of six Chinese tourists has been airlifted from Kaikoura to the country's second largest city.
"Altogether 21 Chinese tourists, including one slightly injured in the head, have been found trapped in Kaikoura so far, and they are all safe now," Consulate-General Jin Zhijian said.
TVNZ showed footage of Prime Minister John Key and Acting Civil Defence Minister Gerry Brownlee surveying the damage to Kaikoura from an air force helicopter.
"It's just utter devastation, I just don't know ... that's months of work," Key told Brownlee and pilots.
He hoped there were no cars stuck underneath the heavy rockfalls.
"It's lucky it was midnight," said Key.
Key and Brownlee estimated the clean-up would run into the hundreds of millions of dollars and clearing the debris and blocked roads could take months.
The Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management (MCDEM) said local state of emergency had been declared in Kaikoura and the neighboring Hurunui district.
"Civil Defence and Emergency Management groups across the country are sending people to the region to help. Search and rescue are on the ground and (the New Zealand Defence Force) is doing an aerial inspection so we can get a full picture of the help that is needed," MCDEM management director Sarah Stuart-Black said in a statement.
The St John ambulance service said it had two fully crewed ambulances operating in Kaikoura, despite earthquake damage to the Kaikoura Ambulance Station.
Additional paramedics and other ambulance officers had been transported into the area by helicopter, said the service.
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) said it had mobilized at least three aircraft to support the government's response to the severe quake.
Key and Brownlee said in a televised press conference earlier Monday that it was impossible to rule out further fatalities.
"On the very best information we have at the moment, we think it's only likely to be two, but of course there are isolated parts of the country in which we don't have perfect eyes on so we can't be 100 percent sure, but we're not aware of any that we're not reporting," said Key.
Structural engineers were also checking buildings in the capital, Wellington, where the quake was felt strongly.
The quake was centered 15 km northeast of Culverden, on the east of the South Island, and struck at 12:02 a.m. on Monday, according to the government's GeoNet monitoring service.
It is being followed by many aftershocks, the largest of them a magnitude of 6.3.
GeoNet scientist Sara McBride said the quake was the largest recorded in New Zealand since a magnitude 7.8 quake in the Dusky Sound, at the top of the South Island, in 2009.
"We can say one thing with certainty: there will be more earthquakes to come in this area," McBride said in a statement.
"It looks like we've got two separate but related quakes going on. Our reports indicate that the combination of these two quakes lasted two minutes, with the most severe shaking at around 50 seconds. It was widely felt throughout both the North and South Islands. It looks like one was a strike-slip and the other was a thrust fault."
A tsunami warning from Wellington, on the North Island, to Banks Peninsula, on the east of the South Island, was lifted later Monday afternoon, said the MCDEM.
New Zealand is frequently rattled by earthquakes, most of which do no damage and cause no injuries, but Monday's tremor brought back memories of the 6.3-magnitude quake that killed 185 people in Christchurch in February 2011.
SYDNEY, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Ltd. and Australia's Fortescue Metals Group have entered into a 473-million-U.S.-dollar agreement to fund the ongoing construction of eight iron ore vessels.
The finance lease facility will fund 85 percent of Fortescue's construction costs over 12 years, the largest direct funding arrangement provided by a major Chinese financier for a non-Chinese company in Australia ,with options for lease extension or early payment.
"This is a ground breaking financing transaction which builds and broadens Fortescue's highly valued relationships with China through our first direct funding arrangement with a major Chinese leasing company," Fortescue chief executive Nev Power said in a statement on Monday.
The world's fourth largest iron ore exporter has been ramping up production while rivals BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto have been scaling back, benefiting from higher spot iron ore prices to pay down debt faster than expected.
The first of eight Very Large Ore Carriers (VLOC) being built at China's Jiangsu Yangzijiang and Guangzhou Shipbuilding International shipyard is expected to be delivered by months end, with remainder through to mid -2018.
Once operational, the fleet will provide 12 percent of Fortescue's shipping requirements while improving load rates, efficiencies and reduce operating costs, the company said.
RIYADH, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Education Ministry has warned international schools from marking non-Islamic occasions, such as Christmas and New Year, Al Eqtisadiya local e-news reported on Monday.
The ban includes forbidding those schools from providing holidays on such occasions or changing the dates of exams to suit them.
The ministry directed all schools to stick to the academic calendars for exams and holidays.
The ministry warned of legal steps against violated schools that could reach to termination of the license.
Saudi Arabia is a Sunni-conservative state that follows Islamic rules in all walks of life.
SYDNEY, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- German discount supermarket giant Aldi will leverage its Australian suppliers as it looks to begin retail operations in China via e-commerce beginning mid next year.
Australia exports over 80 percent of produce due to increasing demand for high quality and clean goods in the emergent Asian middle class, driven primarily from China.
Following detailed feasibility studies, Aldi on Monday announced it would begin offering selected non-chilled grocery and wine products sourced from its Australian suppliers in the second quarter 2017 via an e-commerce retail platform. The move is a bid to gain a foothold in the Chinese market before a wider Asian expansion.
"We know there is a strong demand among Chinese consumers for Australian manufactured products and our goal is to provide a competitively priced alternative for shoppers seeking quality groceries," an Aldi spokesperson told Xinhua in a statement on Monday.
"We believe our unique offer of high-quality Australian products at unbeatable prices will be an attractive proposition for Chinese consumers."
Aldi has had a rapid expansion across Australia since 2001, taking a significant market share from the duopoly Woolworths and Wesfarmers owned Coles, allowing the German giant to gain and develop key relationships in the nation's agriculture industry.
"Our growth across the country has provided increased business for these suppliers, allowing them to invest this back into their own operations and contributing to their success," the spokesperson said.
"We look forward to further expanding these relationships as we develop further opportunities in Asia."
URUMQI, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Authorities in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region are working with local private firms to help improve the lives of the region's poor.
To date, 1,600 companies have provided 550 million yuan (80 million U.S. dollars) in funding to poverty alleviation projects; generated 6,800 jobs; and donated 6 million yuan, according to figures released Monday by the region's federation of industry and commerce.
The federation and the regional poverty alleviation office launched a campaign in March, encouraging local companies and chambers of commerce to sign contracts with villages to help with poverty alleviation.
The companies have opened factories, created jobs and promoted trade in impoverished areas.
Jueit Imin, chairman with the federation, said thanks to the participation of firms these villages are closer to being lifted out of poverty.
"Mini Jack Ma" Fan Xiaoqin (web photo)
Jack Ma, China's second richest man, will fund the education of his eight-year-old doppelganger, according to a statement from e-commerce giant Alibaba released Sunday.
The boy, Fan Xiaoqin, earned the nickname "mini Jack Ma" when photos of him showing a striking resemblance to the Alibaba founder were posted online last year.
Ma was impressed with the look-alike.
Younger Jack Ma (Left) (web photo)
"At first glance, I thought it was a photo of me when I was little," he wrote in a post on Sina Weibo last year. "I thought I was looking into a mirror."
"The only difference between us is the way we fastened our buttons," he added.
The photos and video of little Fan, who lives in Yongfeng County in east China's Jiangxi Province, were originally taken and posted online by a fellow villager in the winter of 2014. The boy soon became a cyber-celebrity and his plight has moved many.
Born into a poor family, the child and his elder brother have never attended school. His mother suffers from polio and lost an eye after getting hit by a buffalo. His 83-year-old grandmother has dementia. His father, 59, the family's sole breadwinner, lost a leg in an accident.
"Mini Jack Ma" Fan Xiaoqin (web photo)
The boy's story circulated online once again during this year's Singles' Day. The annual online shopping event on Nov. 11 was first launched by Alibaba, and this year, the company's sales topped 120 billion yuan (17.6 billion U.S. dollars).
Social media users remembered Fan and his family, and urged Ma to help the child.
Ma noticed the buzz and reportedly announced his decision within the company to fund the boy's education, from primary school to college.
Ma, 52, is a rags-to-riches story. He worked as an English teacher and translator early in his career, and today, with an estimated wealth of 28.2 billion U.S. dollars, ranks second on the 2016 Forbes list of China's 400 richest.
Younger Jack Ma (Left) (web photo)
"[Fan's situation] is not a joke. It is a serious fact," said the Alibaba statement.
"There are still many poor people in the country. The problem of growth and education of China's rural and left-behind children is alarming," it said.
By the end of 2015, China still had 55.75 million people living in poverty. About 40 million children live in impoverished areas nationwide.
According to the Ministry of Civil Affairs, the country also has 9.02 million left-behind rural children whose parents are migrant workers, or who have one migrant-worker parent and another incapable of guardianship.
"To fund one child's education is easy, but in order to help millions of poor children, more resources need to be used," said the Alibaba statement.
More than 700 million Chinese people have been raised from poverty over the past three decades. China vows to lift all of its poor out of poverty by 2020.
The Chinese government assigned poverty relief funds totaling 189.84 billion yuan from 2011 to 2015, and will allocate more in the coming five years, according to a white paper published by the State Council Information Office.
BAGHDAD, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- The Iraqi security forces on Monday killed six suicide bombers who tried to carry out attacks in a town near the holy Shiite city of Karbala in central Iraq, leaving six people killed, an Interior Ministry spokesman said.
The attack occurred in the morning in the town of Ain al-Tamur, some 80 m west of Karbala, when the security forces spotted six suicide bombers and clashed with them before reaching their targets, killing five of them, Brigadier General Saad Maan said in a press release.
The troops chased the sixth suicide bomber and surrounded him after he entered a house in the town, prompting the attacker to detonate his explosive vest inside, Maan said.
Six civilians were also killed and six others wounded by the clashes and explosions, Maan added.
The attacks occurred as the Shiite Muslims are preparing to commemorate the death of Imam Hussein, one of the Shiites' twelve most revered Imams, who was killed in 680 AD. and buried in Karbala, some 110 km south of Baghdad.
The Shiite Muslims had already observed the death day of Imam Hussein on October 12, in a ritual named Ashura Day, but they usually continue their mourning till the ritual of al-Arbaeen, or 40 days after the Imam's death which will take place on November 21.
No group has so far claimed responsibility for the attacks, but the Islamic State (IS) militant group, in most cases, is responsible for deadly attacks against Shiite Muslims who perform communal rituals in Iraq, in an attempt to provoke sectarian strife in the violence-shattered country.
Terrorist acts, violence and armed conflicts killed 1,792 Iraqis and wounded 1,358 others in October across Iraq, the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq said.
Many blame the current chronic instability, cycle of violence, and the emergence of extremist groups, such as the IS, on the U.S., which invaded and occupied Iraq in March 2003.
BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- China and New Zealand inked an agreement on Monday to mutually recognize organic food with official certification labels to facilitate organic food development and trade.
China's Certification and Accreditation Administration and New Zealand's Ministry of Primary Industries agreed to mutually recognize each other's certifications for organic food imports.
This is the first mutual recognition agreement for organic food certification China has signed with a foreign country.
China mainly exports coffee, frozen vegetables, and pet food to New Zealand and imports dairy products, meat and fruit from the country. Under the agreement, all organic food should be marked with Chinese certification labels and codes.
Official data showed that China sold organic food worth 60 billion yuan (8.78 billion U.S. dollars) last year. China is the fourth largest destination for New Zealand's organic food exports.
SEOUL, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Samsung Electronics, the world's largest maker of smartphones, chips and TVs, said Monday that it had agreed to buy Harman International Industries, the U.S.-based auto parts supplier, for 8 billion U.S. dollars in cash.
The South Korean company said in a statement that Harman shares were valued at 112 U.S. dollars apiece, 28 percent higher than the closing price in New York on Friday.
It is the largest acquisition by a local company of a foreign firm in history, indicating Samsung's push to become one of global auto parts leaders.
Harman is the market leader in connected car and audio systems, including embedded infotainment, telematics, connected safety and over-the-air solutions. It generated 700 million U.S. dollars in operating profit on revenue of 7 billion dollars in the past 12 months.
Samsung expects the connected car solutions market to expand from 45 billion dollars in 2015 to around 100 billion dollars in 2025.
"Harman perfectly complements Samsung in terms of technologies, products and solutions, and joining forces is a natural extension of the automotive strategy we have been pursuing for some time," said Kwon Oh-hyun, vice chairman and chief executive of Samsung Electronics.
"As a tier-1 automotive supplier with deep customer relationships, strong brands, leading technology and a recognized portfolio of best-in-class products, Harman immediately establishes a strong foundation for Samsung to grow our automotive platform," Kwon added.
BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- China will achieve major progress in the steel sector's structural overhaul by 2020 and "fundamentally bail out" the industry, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology said on Monday.
China plans to reduce crude steel output by 100 million tonnes to 150 million tonnes by 2020 and ease the uneven supply-demand situation in the sector, according to the ministry's 2016-2020 plan on upgrading the steel sector.
The whole sector will be modernized and its energy consumption and pollutant emissions will be within the nation standard by 2020, said the plan.
The ministry stressed the central government's resolution to continue to shed unnecessary production capacity in the steel sector, and underscored that it will not allow the addition of new steel capacity and said any investment that would increase steel capacity should stop.
Intelligent and green manufacturing in the steel sector will be encouraged, as well as mergers and acquisitions, according to the plan.
China's over-supplied steel sector experienced years of plunging prices and factory shutdowns due to the sluggish economy. However, with encouragement from the upward trend of prices from the beginning of this year, many steel mills are resuming production.
The central government reiterated that cutting overcapacity is high on its reform agenda as excess capacity in sectors such as steel and coal has weighed on the country's overall economic performance.
China has shut down steel plants with total capacity of over 90 million tonnes over the past five years.
The National Development and Reform Commission said Friday that the steel industry had completed its annual target of reducing production capacity by 45 million tonnes by the end of October.
BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday discussed China-U.S. relations with Donald Trump in a telephone conversation.
Xi congratulated Trump on his election as U.S. president and expressed his willingness to work with him.
Since the two countries established formal ties 37 years ago, bilateral relations have been continuously progressing, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples and promoting world and regional peace, stability and prosperity, Xi said.
Facts have shown that cooperation is the only correct choice for the two countries, he said.
As China-U.S. cooperation faces important opportunities and has huge potential, the two countries need to strengthen coordination, advance their respective economic development and global economic growth and expand exchanges and cooperation in various fields so as to bring more benefits to the two peoples and promote the smooth development of China-U.S. relations, said the Chinese president.
As the biggest developing country and the biggest developed country respectively and as the top two economies of the world, there are many things in which China and the United States can and should cooperate, Xi said.
"I attach great importance to China-U.S. relations and am ready to work with the U.S. side to carry forward bilateral ties and to better benefit the two peoples and the rest of the world," he told Trump.
For his part, Trump thanked Xi for the congratulations and said that he agreed with Xi on his views about U.S.-China relations.
China is a great and important country with eye-catching development prospects, said Trump. The United States and China can achieve win-win results featuring mutual benefits, he added.
Trump voiced his readiness to work with Xi to strengthen U.S.-China cooperation and expressed his belief that U.S.-China relations will witness even greater development.
Xi and Trump also agreed to maintain close contact, establish a good working relationship and meet at an early date to exchange views on bilateral ties and other issues of common concern.
HANOI, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam's cashew exports are expected to reach a record high of 3 billion U.S. dollars in 2016, with kernel accounting for 2.8 billion U.S. dollars, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade on Monday.
In the first 10 month of this year, the country exported 290,000 tons of cashew worth 2.32 billion U.S. dollars, a year-on-year increase of 5.5 percent in volume and 16.4 percent in value, said the ministry.
Vietnam currently accounts for half of the world's cashew exports, and has been the leading exporter for the last 10 years.
Its cashew products are exported to 80 countries and regions, with the United States, Europe, and China being the main markets.
However, Nguyen Duc Thanh, chairman of the Vietnam Cashew Association said on the state-run news agency VNA that the Vietnamese cashew industry is facing high risk due to its massive reliance on imported raw materials, which also makes it hard for processors and exporters to control quality or food safety and hygiene.
During the 2013-2016 period, demand for raw nut imports doubled, Thanh said, adding that the quality of raw cashew imported from Africa had been lower this year compared to last, affecting Vietnamese exporters.
The insider proposed local companies to have a strategy on developing raw material sources, and be more careful about importing raw nuts.
Yang Jianmin's wagon gallops on the National Highway 318 in Tingri County. (Xinhua/Guo Qiuda)
Yang Jianmin runs a little store in the Tibetan town Zhaxizom, only 50 kilometers away from the world's highest peak Mount Qomolangma. He has to go to the nearest city Xigaze for stockpile. Recently his store has started to run the express business.
This September, Yang was approached by a logistic company to establish an express post.
Knowing the new business would provide convenience for his fellow town people, Yang agreed to open the express service, maybe the highest express post of the world. Every Tuesday, Yang fetches parcels from the county seat Tingri.
Although the way to Zhaxizom is rigged by mountains and long distance, online shopping is no new practice there. However, what has bothered the town people is the glacial speed of logistics.
Yang's son helps unload cargo in front of the express post. (Xinhua/Liu Dongjun)
It used to take 15 to 20 days for parcels to be sent to Tingri, where the town people had to travel 60 kilometers to collect parcels by themselves. Yang's express post solves this problem.
On November 8 when Yang got a bunch of parcels to his post, Degyi Zhuoima hastened to get her pants booked online. It was her fifth time of the month to enjoy the service of the express post.
"It now takes only half of the time than before to get the parcel, so I shop online much more frequently," Degyi says. She has showed her purchase records during the annual online shopping festival, Nov. 11, on her WeChat, a leading social networking platform in China.
The convenience is also proved by Yang's postal record: It only takes nine days to dispatch a parcel from Guangzhou in south China to Zhaxizom.
The view of Mount Qomolangma from Tingri County. (Xinhua/Liu Dongjun)
Yang has to drive through 100 turnings on the mountain road which has a drop of 1,000 meters. Besides altitude sickness, the capricious weather conditions and frost storms add to the difficulty of his drive.
Since September 27, when Yang's post delivered the first parcel, the express post has handled over 200 parcels.
Online shopping is gradually changing people's life at the foot of Mount Qomolangma. "My daughter used to wear facials when she got here, which terrified some of the local kids," Yang says. Now many people know what it is, and other girls have also started to place orders.
Yang Jianmin and his wife show the fresh fruits shipped from Xigaze. (Xinhua/Guo Qiuda)
Yang's post has also become gospel for tourists and mountaineers: they mail their heavy luggage back home.
Online shopping has become a new normal for Tibetans. According to the local authorities, the number of Internet users in Tibet had reached 1.639 million by March this year. An account statement of Alipay, a leading mobile payment service, shows that 83.3% of the payments in Tibet were conducted on mobile phones in 2015, topping the country for four years in a roll.
MANILA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is open to support free trade deals, including the Chinese-led Free Trade Area of the Asia Pacific (FTAAP), an official of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Monday.
Leo Herrera-Lim Sr., a senior assistant of the DFA-Office of International Economic Relations made the remarks during the briefing in Malacanang, the presidential palace, of President Rodrigo Duterte's attendance in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in Lima, Peru later this week.
"I think for the Philippines and President Duterte, he's been open to anything that contributes well to the Philippine economy. So we are not closing the door on any economic integration or free trade because I think we understand that free trade by itself penetrates the greater population," he said when asked if Duterte is keen on joining the FTAAP being pushed by China.
He said the only thing that Duterte would like to see is that any free trade agreement would not disadvantage any of the sectors in the country.
During the 2014 APEC summit in Beijing, APEC member economies pushed forward the process of the FTAAP by sketching out a historic roadmap.
China has been pushing for the FTAAP and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
"RCEP is still alive," Lim said.
Duterte will join other 20 APEC leaders in the APEC Summit on Nov. 19-20.
Colourful lantern boats are seen during the annual Water Festival in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Nov. 13, 2016. The 3-day Water Festival kicked off here on Sunday. (Xinhua/Zhang Yanfang)
by Xue Lei, Nguon Sovan
PHNOM PENH, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Hundreds of thousands of people from rural Cambodia have traveled to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, to enjoy the 3-day Water Festival, which began on Sunday.
Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni and Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen as well as other notable figures and foreign diplomats watched the Water Festival boat races over the Tonle Sap River in front of the Royal Palace on Sunday afternoon.
A total of 259 dragon boats with about 15,000 racers from across the kingdom have taken part in the competition over the distance of 1.7 km, according to the Boat Racing Technical Control Committee.
The Water Festival is the biggest annual festival in the Southeast Asian nation. Besides viewing the regatta in the daytime, festival-goers can also enjoy processions of illuminated floats and fireworks over the river at nighttime.
Visitors can also see trade exhibitions and concerts, which will be performed by the country's superstars and comedians.
Phnom Penh Municipal Governor Pa Socheatvong said on Tuesday that around two million Cambodians, especially rural dwellers, are expected to flock to Phnom Penh for the festival.
He said more than 10,000 security personnel have been deployed to ensure security and safety, as tankers, cargo trucks, and buses are banned from entering the capital during the event.
Chhil Chhum, 70, a team minder of a boat from southern Kandal province, said his boat had 57 oarsmen, who had spent about 10 days to train together before joining the race.
"Most of us are farmers and construction workers, so we don't have much time for training," he told Xinhua, adding that their participation was mainly aimed to preserve the traditional Water Festival.
He said all boaters have been allowed to stay in makeshift shelters along the riverfront and provided a daily per diem of about 15,000 riel (3.75 U.S. dollars).
Chheang Lang, a 29-year-old boat racer from southeastern Kampong Cham province, said the festival was an opportunity for the people in the provinces to see Phnom Penh.
"This is the second time I have joined the race," he told Xinhua, adding that his boat had 72 crew members. "Our participation is only for fun because we trained just two weeks before participating in the competition."
Lang said he is a construction worker and will return to work after the festival.
Hang Nob, 65, a farmer from the western Pursat province, said she came to visit the event for the first time with her relatives.
"Previously, I just heard from my neighbors that visiting the Water Festival was really fun," she told Xinhua. "Now, I have come to see it with my own eyes and I see that it is indeed really a happy event!"
Another festival-goer, Tek Sam, 70, from southeastern Tboung Khmum province, said that he would regret it if he could not see the regatta with his own eyes.
"I like boat racing very much. This is the third time I've been to Phnom Penh to enjoy the festival," he said, adding that he visited the event with his two nephews.
The Water Festival is a traditional event that marks the end of the rainy season and the reversing course of the Tonle Sap River that connects the Tonle Sap Lake with the Mekong Rive.
"The festival is seen as a thanksgiving to the Mekong River for providing the country with fertile land and abundant fish," the website said. "Boat racing marks the strength of the powerful Khmer marine forces during the ancient Khmer Empire."
This year is the second celebration held in six years, following a tragedy on the final day of the 2010 festival in which 353 people were trampled to death or suffocated in a stampede on a bridge connecting the mainland to the Diamond Island.
MARRAKECH, Morocco, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- China will continue to play an active role in climate change with much stronger actions, while enhancing cooperation with related parties.
The 22nd Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP22) is being held in the Moroccan city of Marrakech.
Participants in the meeting are expected to identify ways for a potential future coalition and adopt a declaration on health, environment and climate change.
MUCH STRONGER ACTIONS
China has set up an ambitious target to reach the peaking of CO2 emissions around 2030, Xie Ji, a deputy chief of the Chinese delegation, said Thursday.
"Many cities promised they can reach their peaking before 2030, and a few cities try to achieve the target around 2020," said Xie, adding that many industries, especially energy-intensive ones, were asked to control CO2 emissions and try to reach the peaking around 2020.
Gou Haibo, another deputy chief of the Chinese delegation, said Wednesday that China would continue to uphold a development concept highlighting innovation, coordination, greenness, openness and sharing.
He said that China would act positively and forcefully in maintaining the international mechanism, promoting international cooperation and combating climate change.
CHINA-U.S. COOPERATION CONTINUES
China's policies will not be affected by any external changes, Chen Zhihua, a member of the Chinese delegation, said Friday.
"No matter what happens in the new U.S. government, China will continue to constructively participate in the international climate change process," Chen said.
Chen was referring to concerns that the United States will withdraw from the Paris Agreement on climate change after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who vowed to cancel the agreement during his campaign, takes office in January.
"We still need to wait," Chen said, adding that now is not the right time to assess it.
Even if the United States withdraws from the agreement, cooperation between China and the U.S. will continue, Chen said. "This is the attitude we hold toward the matter."
Catherine Novelli, U.S. undersecretary of state for economic growth, energy and the environment, said the United States and China have an "incredible working relationship" on climate issues.
"And I think it would portend well for leadership for the future," Novelli said. "I think everybody acknowledges that the momentum for Paris was generated by the agreement between the U.S. and China."
Novelli also said her country would continue the existing cooperation with China after Trump takes office in January.
COOPERATION WITH ALL PARTIES
The World Bank would continue to be a strong partner of China, with the country's commitment and leadership on climate changes issues, Laura Tuck, vice president for sustainable development of the World Bank, said Friday.
In an interview with Xinhua, Tuck hailed China's effort on climate issues, praising its impressive National Determined Contributions targets for 2030, which will take a variety of measures to achieve, among them the planned Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).
Tuck said the ETS China will be worth 50 billion U.S. dollars, the largest in the global range.
"The scale of the ETS China would be an inspiration for the countries and it has the potential to change investment and consumption decisions made by individuals and that can lead to a much lower-carbon economy," said Tuck, adding that it could be a model.
Meanwhile, members of the European Parliament on Friday urged the European Union and China to join forces at COP22.
"In Paris, China and the EU played a key role of honest brokers among different 'camps' during negotiations. That contributed to the final conclusion of the ground-breaking agreement," said Jo Leinen, chair of the European Parliament's delegation for relations with China.
The historic Paris Agreement, adopted in December 2015, has been ratified by 96 countries and the EU, and entered info force on Nov. 4.
Under the agreement, nations have agreed to combat climate change and to unleash actions and investment toward a low-carbon, resilient and sustainable future.
"In Marrakech, we will have to work on the implementation of the Paris Agreement. We shall also work to consolidate the trust between developed and developing countries," said Giovanni La Via, chair of the European Parliament's delegation to COP22.
"China is expected to line up with the EU. These two global powers should assume their responsibility by forming a new coalition with the aim of fighting for a progressive global climate policy," Leinen said.
RIYADH, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- A Saudi court has sentenced an Arab manager to one year in jail and 900 lashes for forcing an Asian worker to shave his beard in front of the employees, Okaz local newspaper reported on Monday.
The manager threatened to suspend the worker if he did not heed the order, the report said, without giving details on the reasons behind the order.
The court said its verdict was based on the psychological harms that befell the victim.
Expat workforce is with high demands in Saudi Arabia, especially for harsh jobs with low demands among local jobseekers.
Saudi Arabia's population grew by 2.4 percent to 31.52 million last year from 30.77 million in 2014, according to a report based on the Saudi Department of Statistics and Information published in February.
The number of Saudis, who make up two-thirds of the population, increased to 21.1 million in 2015. The number of expats rose to 10.4 million, it added.
ANKARA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu here on Sunday, with the two sides pledging further pushing forward bilateral strategic cooperation in economy, anti-terrorism and other fields.
Wang is in Ankara for the first meeting of the mechanism for consultation between the Chinese and Turkish foreign ministers.
Wang said the first meeting of the mechanism is intended to implement the important consensus reached between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Turkish President Recep Erdogan during their three meetings since last year, part of which is the agreement on a governmental cooperation committee mechanism at the foreign ministers' level.
As two developing countries as well as two emerging economies, China and Turkey enjoy vast potential and large room for the development of bilateral relations, Wang said.
The Chinese side attaches great importance to China-Turkey relations, and is willing to make a good use of the foreign ministers' consultation mechanism to strengthen strategic communication and policy coordination, to fully implement the important consensus reached between the two leaders, and to promote bilateral strategic cooperative relations, Wang said.
He also expressed the hope that the two countries could bring their respective potential and advantage into full play through joint efforts to build the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, and boost national and regional development.
For his part, Cavusoglu said Turkey stands ready to further promote its relations with China in economy, security and other fields.
"Turkey highly values relations with China and looks forward to further expanding trade and investment cooperation, pushing forward cooperation in major projects, and strengthening bilateral cooperation in humanistic fields including education, culture tourism," he said during a joint press conference with Wang after their first meeting under the consultation mechanism late Sunday.
Both sides agreed to align China's Belt and Road Initiative with Turkey's "Middle Corridor" project, innovate ideas and methods for cooperation, put emphasis on major cooperation projects such as high speed railway construction, in a bid to realize common development.
The two sides also agreed to deepen cooperation in security and anti-terrorism, build mutual political trust, and support each other in efforts of safeguarding national sovereignty, security and stability.
Both sides agreed to solve hotspot regional issues by political means in safeguarding regional peace.
VLADIVOSTOK, Russia, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- "Days of Heilongjiang Province," an event featuring forums, exhibitions and concerts, opened in Vladivostok on Monday.
"Heilongjiang province has planned rich programs in Primorsky Territory, in areas including economy, culture, tourism, sports, education, medicine and science," said Heilongjiang Governor Lu Hao.
Due to its special geographic location and history, cooperation with Russia has an important place in Heilongjiang. The province will continue to strengthen cooperation with Russia in various fields, Lu said.
Governor of Primorsky Territory Vladimir Miklushevsky said Heilongjiang is a special foreign partners of Primorsky.
"For Primorsky Territory, China is the main economic partner. Primorsky's trade volume with China exceeds 60 percent of its total annual volume," said Miklushevsky.
HANOI, Nov.14 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam is one of the three countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) along with the Philippines and Indonesia to have the most migrant workers, said the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (MoLISA) on Monday.
Some 500,000 Vietnamese labors are working in over 40 countries and regions worldwide, said the MoLISA at an international conference on informal laborers, migrant workers and healthcare issue in the ASEAN.
The conference held Monday in Vietnam's central Thue Thien-Hue province, some 540 km south of capital Hanoi, drew participation of over 200 delegates from Cambodia, Laos, Germany, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam, reported the state-run news agency VNA.
Representatives at the conference discussed labor competitiveness, rights of laborers in the wave of labor mobility among ASEAN countries, risks and diseases of migrant workers, low-skilled labors in ASEAN among others.
They came to a conclusion that in the coming time, workers should be further protected by using sample labor contracts with detailed terms in labor safety and hygiene for migrant workers, said VNA.
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- U.S. presidential election winner Donald Trump on Sunday told his supporters to stop harassing minorities in his first televised interview as president-elect.
Trump said he was "saddened" by reports that incidents of harassment and intimidation of minorities had spiked since his election.
"I hate to hear that. I am so saddened to hear that," Trump said when asked about the reports at the interview with the CBS's "60 Minutes," which was taped Friday and aired in full Sunday.
Police across the country are investigating a wave of alleged hate crimes against Muslims, Hispanic Americans, black people, ethnic minorities and the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community in the wake of the U.S. election.
Attackers professing support for Trump have been accused of numerous attacks following his shock victory, including death threats, physical assaults and racist graffiti.
Among the incident is the alleged robbery of a Muslim student at San Diego State University by two men who "made comments about President-elect Donald Trump and the Muslim community" before stealing her purse, rucksack and car.
There were also many reports of attacks on women wearing hijabs and Islamic dress.
Trump's election victory has sparked days of protests in several major cities nationwide, and analysts believe that the demonstrations may continue for some time.
The "we reject the president-elect" chant echoed far and wide again in New York City Saturday, as thousands of angry New Yorkers protested against Trump's win.
The protesters, mostly young people, gathered at Union Square in force and soon marched towards the Trump Tower on Fifth Avenue, residence and campaign headquarters of the real estate mogul and reality show star turned politician.
The police force of the city was on high alert, barricading the entrance of Trump Tower and many storefronts.
Protesters have also taken to the streets of Chicago, Miami, Denver, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Louisville, Kentucky, Baltimore and other cities.
While most protests have been peaceful, there have been reports of violence and at least one shooting.
A man was shot and injured during a protest march in the early morning hours of Saturday in the city of Portland, the U.S. state of Oregon, police said on Saturday.
The police said in a news release that the victim was participating in the protest march when he was shot, and that he was continuing to recover from his non-life-threatening injuries.
Analysts said the reason behind the widespread protests across the country is that Trump has elicited much controversy over the past year in one of the most controversial and nastiest presidential races.
The question remains whether the protests will continue, fade out, or even turn violent in the days and weeks to come.
"The protests against Trump will continue. Progressive forces are strongly opposed to Trump's agenda and will ferociously resist what he is doing. There is a risk that protests turn violent and exacerbate societal tensions," Brookings Institution Senior Fellow Darrell West told Xinhua.
BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- A training course for UN peacekeeping officers organized by China's Ministry of National Defense (MND) started in Beijing Monday.
The course enrolled 39 participants from 22 countries, including China, Sweden, Pakistan, New Zealand and Mexico.
The two-week course will be in English, and include topics such as international law, human rights, UN peacekeeper conduct, and crisis management.
Apart from learning basic theory and professional skills, the trainees will also take part in physical drills.
This is the first time for the MND to organize the course for UN peacekeeping staff officers.
The UN currently has over 1,800 military observers and staff officers working in 16 peacekeeping-mission areas, responsible for duties such as organizing, coordinating military peacekeeping operations, intelligence, communication, and training, including 93 from China.
MOGADISHU, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- A security officer was killed and two others wounded in a gun attack on a checkpoint in the Somali capital Mogadishu on Sunday evening, police sources said.
The sources said on Monday there was a gunfight after armed men raided the police checkpoint in Warta Nabada district.
A local resident told Xinhua on Monday the armed gang shot security officers manning the checkpoint with rifles.
"Heavy exchange of fire ensued thereafter. There was panic in the area and traffic was diverted to other roads," the resident said.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, but Islamist group Al-Shabaab has carried out frequent attacks in the country, many of them in Mogadishu, in its insurgency against the government.
Al-Shabaab has intensified its attacks as Somalia prepares for presidential election due on Nov. 30. Parliamentary elections are ongoing in various parts of the country.
PARIS, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- A collision between a school bus and a truck in Pas-de-Calais in northern France killed one person and seriously injured two others on Monday, local authorities said.
The collision occurred at 7:45 am local time (0645 GMT) between Arras et Doullens in northern region of Pas-de Calais after a truck left the lane and smashed head-on with a school bus in the opposite direction, Pas-de-Calais prefecture said.
The bus driver was killed and two others are in critical situation, it added.
Carrying 12 pupils, the bus was en route to a local school in Bapaume, according to local reports.
JAKARTA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Singapore's Premier Lee Hsien Loong held bilateral talks in Indonesia's Central Java capital of Semarang on Monday, discussing ways to further expand economic ties between the two nations.
The meeting was held prior to the inauguration of the Indonesia-Singapore jointly-operated Kendal Industrial Park located in city of Kendal, western part of Semarang.
President Widodo said in a joint press conference that Singapore is Indonesia's key partner in various sectors.
He said the Kendal Industrial Park would represent "new icon" of bilateral relations between the two countries which would be increased further in the future.
Scheduled to commence in 2020, initial operation of Kendal Industrial Park that covers 860 hectares, was expected to facilitate up to 200 trillion rupiah (about 14.9 billion U.S. dollars) of investments, opening up to 500,000 jobs.
Singapore investment in Indonesia was recorded at 7.1 billion U.S. dollars in the first nine months this year, or 44 percent higher than in the same period last year.
Meanwhile, the two leaders on Monday agreed to set up a business council to enhance business networking of the two countries.
Premier Lee said the council will give an added-value to the partnership of the two countries, according to a statement.
The two sides also inked four deals on hospitality and tourism, digital economy, and a smart city development plan.
Rwanda's President Paul Kagame (Front R) and Tanzania's President John Pombe Magufuli (Front 2nd R) light the Flame of Remembrance during the 22nd anniversary of the 1994 genocide in Kigali, capital of Rwanda, April 7, 2016. Rwanda on April 7, 2016 marked 22nd anniversary of the 1994 genocide in which more than one million people, mainly Tutsi and moderate Hutus, were killed. (Xinhua)
KIGALI, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Rwanda has called on the international community to apprehend and extradite genocide fugitives roaming freely in their respective countries.
Richard Muhumuza, Rwanda Prosecutor General told reporters Sunday, that Rwanda Genocide Fugitive Tracking Unit (GFTU) is pursuing more than 500 genocide suspects in hiding around the world.
"We thank countries that have cooperated with Rwanda and already extradited notorious genocide suspects to the country, but we are looking forward for more fugitives brought to Rwanda to face justice," he said. "We call upon the international community to investigate, arrest and extradite, all other fugitives accused of genocide residing on their territories."
Muhumuza's comments follow the extradition of two genocide suspects from Netherlands to Rwanda on Saturday evening.
The extradition follows a Dutch court's ruling to deport Jean-Claude Iyamuremye and Jean-Baptiste Mugimba, for genocide and crimes against humanity committed during the 1994 genocide.
The National Commission for the Fight against Genocide (CNLG) commended the Dutch government for supporting the cause for justice.
Most of the suspects residing in Europe are in Belgium and France. In Africa, most fugitives are said to be hiding in neighboring DR Congo and Uganda, according to GFTU.
"We are happy about the decision taken by Holland to seek for justice of genocide victims. We had been requesting for their extradition through normal channels, and finally it has happened. We call upon other countries to follow suit," said Jean-Damascene Bizimana, executive secretary of CNLG.
He hailed foreign countries for trusting the Rwandan justice system to be able to handle genocide cases fairly.
According to the Rwanda prosecution, the suspects extradited from Holland have been transferred to Kigali Central Prison where they will await trial before the specialized International Crimes Chamber of the High Court.
Both Mugimba and Iyamuremye will be tried for genocide, conspiracy to commit genocide, complicity in genocide, direct and public incitement to commit genocide, murder as a crime against humanity and extermination as a crime against humanity committed in Kigali City.
Mugimba was born on October 24, 1959 in then Cyambara, Gaturo Sector, Mutura Commune, Gisenyi Prefecture, Western Rwanda.
During the 1994 Genocide, he lived in Nyakabanda Sector, Nyarugenge Commune in Kigali.
He was previously employed by the National Bank of Rwanda (BNR) and was Secretary General of the Coalition for the Defence of the Republic ("CDR"), an extremist Hutu political party.
Iyamuremye was born on December 14, 1975, in the former Gatare cellule, Kicukiro sector, Kanombe commune of Kigali City.
He is suspected of having been the leader of the "Interahamwe" militia in Kicukiro sector and a member of the Mouvement Revolutionnaire National Pour Development (MRND).
Presently eleven people accused of committing genocide have been extradited from Uganda, DR Congo, Canada, U.S, Netherlands and ICTR to stand trial in Rwanda.
The top fugitives who have eluded justice for nearly two decades now include Felicien Kabuga, the alleged chief financier of the Genocide; Protais Mpiranya, the former commandant of the notorious Presidential Guards, and former defence minister Augustin Bizimana.
Liu Yunshan (R, front), a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft Satya Nadella in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 14, 2016. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)
BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Liu Yunshan, a senior leader of the Communist Party of China (CPC), met with Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft Satya Nadella here on Monday.
Liu, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, said he hoped Microsoft would share its technology with China and contribute to cooperation between Chinese and U.S. businesses.
Liu also called on the United States to work on cyber security with China with an open and inclusive attitude.
Praising Internet development in China, Nadella said Microsoft benefits from cooperation with China, and will continue to work with the country to develop new products with world class standards and security.
BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- In his role as chairman of the Central Military Commission, Xi Jinping has signed an order to confer a posthumous honorary title on a fighter jet pilot.
Zhang Chao, who died on April 27 when flying a J-15 carrier-based aircraft in a carrier-landing simulation, was given the title "Pioneer in Building a Strong Army."
Zhang, who had participated in several dozen marine patrols, joined the team of carrier-based aircraft pilots in March 2015.
The whole army and armed police forces were asked to learn from Zhang's virtues such as self-discipline and being bold enough to sacrifice everything for the Party and the people.
Zhang should be an example to those who strive for a world-class military, said the order.
People attend a gathering to call for less fossil fuel development and a transition to renewable energy during the 22nd Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP22) in Marrakech, Morocco, on Nov. 14, 2016. Africa presents united front and calls for action at the COP22 scheduled from Nov. 7 to 18 in Marrakesh, Morocco. (Xinhua/Meng Tao)
ADDIS ABABA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Africa presents united front and calls for action at the 22nd Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP22) scheduled from Nov. 7 to 18 in Marrakesh, Morocco.
Africa is among the world's regions most vulnerable to climate change, reiterated a statement from the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) on Monday.
Africa's key priorities include ensuring that global ambitions and historic responsibilities regarding means of implementation, particularly predictable financing, to facilitate low carbon climate resilient development are in line with the continent's development goals, said the statement.
A collaborative partnership between the Africa Development Bank (AfDB), the African Union Commission, ECA, and the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) established the Africa Pavilion in the blue zone of the COP22 village, dedicated to engagement, networking and dialogue, said the statement.
The Pavilion also aims to provide a platform for the voices of the continent to be heard.
The Pavilion embodies the united front of an Africa "speaking with one voice" in articulating its interests given the high stakes of climate change negotiations
The Africa Pavilion features a dynamic program of round-tables, conferences and bilateral meetings, where key issues of adaptation and mitigation; green industrialization; agriculture; transport; health; water and sanitation; biodiversity and innovation are discussed.
Both COP21 President and French Minister of the Environment, Energy and the Sea, in charge of international climate negotiations, Segolene Royal and COP22 President and Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs Salaheddine Mezouar, visited the Africa pavilion in the early days of COP22.
Several African heads of State and high level officials are also expected to visit the pavilion during the High level week of COP22, and especially on Africa Day, on Wednesday, according to the statement.
COP22 is the fourth COP to take place on African soil, the second time in Morocco, presenting an important opportunity to place special emphasis on the continent's needs and proposals.
COP22 is dubbed the COP of action, providing a clear roadmap for the implementation of commitments made in the Paris Agreement which came into force on 4 Nov. 2016.
BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- China takes a positive attitude toward cooperation with the United States in all areas, including infrastructure, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said on Monday.
Geng made the comment when asked if China is willing to participate in U.S. infrastructure plans, as President-elect Donald Trump hopes to create more jobs through an infrastructure revamp in the country.
China looks forward to working with the United States to expand cooperation on bilateral, regional and international levels, Geng said at a regular news briefing.
"As for the specific areas of cooperation, China takes a positive attitude to all areas that will benefit the two countries and peoples, including infrastructure," Geng said.
Media reports said the Obama administration has suspended its efforts to win congressional approval for the Trans-Pacific Partnership pact before Trump takes office, saying that the TPP's fate is up to Trump and Republican lawmakers.
"China is open in principle to all trade arrangements that are conducive to liberalizing and facilitating regional trade. But China maintains such arrangements should comply with World Trade Organization rules and should not be politicized," Geng said.
Responding to concerns that Trump vowed to "cancel" the Paris Agreement on climate change, which was inked last December and came into force last week, Geng said the deal was a result of concerted efforts of all parties, including China and the United States.
China is willing to strengthen cooperation with the United States and other countries on climate change and promote green, low-carbon and sustainable development around the globe, the spokesperson added.
BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan recently expressed the hope that a U.S. student delegation that recently visited China at their invitation would become ambassadors for China-U.S. friendship.
The presidential couple made the remarks in a letter to the students of the Lincoln High School in Tacoma, Washington, which they met during their state visit to the United States in September last year.
"We hope you will share your experience and impression of China with people around you, so that more Americans will get to know China better," they wrote in the letter.
"We hope you will become ambassadors of China-U.S. friendship and do more to promote the friendship between our peoples," they added.
During their recent visit in China, the students toured the Chinese cities of Beijing, Chengdu and Fuzhou, interacting with their peers and making friends with them.
In the letter, Xi cited the "Guling story" to demonstrate that the friendship between the Chinese and American peoples enjoys a long history, and needs to be carried forward by the younger generation.
In 1992, when Xi was working in Fuzhou City in southeast China, he helped an American woman fulfill her late husband's wish to visit Guling in the suburbs of Fuzhou.
Elizabeth Gardner's husband Milton Gardner was born and spent his childhood in Guling, before he left for the United States in 1911. Milton Gardner had longed to revisit Guling since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1979, but never made the trip due to his failing health.
After he died, his widow made several trips to China in an attempt to find the small town, but in vain.
On reading the story from a newspaper, Xi decided to lend a hand. With Xi's help, Elizabeth Gardner finally visited the town in August 1992.
The delegation of 118 U.S. students and teachers visited China on Oct. 11-18, and sent gifts to Xi and Peng through the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
NEW DELHI, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday made a scathing attack on the country's main opposition Congress party for trying to obstruct the fight against corruption.
"I will never let anyone loot the money that belongs to the poor of India," Modi said at a political rally in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.
His remarks came in the wake of the Congress and other opposition parties slamming the Indian government for scrapping currency notes of higher denominations, saying the move was causing massive inconvenience to the people.
However, the prime minister said he was "pained by the inconvenience caused," and assured he was "working tirelessly to help people overcome this."
The demonetization of currency notes of 500 Indian rupees (7.5 U.S. dollars) and 1,000 Indian rupees (15 U.S. dollars) has turned into a nightmare for citizens, with people standing in queues for hours just to withdraw money, which is being rationed till there are enough replacement notes.
Modi has said that the inconvenience would last for a few days, but promised the benefits would be manyfold in the long-term.
by Chen Jin, Lin Huifen
CHISINAU, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Moldova's presidential candidate Igor Dodon, leader of the Socialist Party, emerged Monday as the winner of the presidential runoff, preliminary results released by the Central Electoral Commission (CEC) showed.
The pro-Russia candidate got 52.29 percent of the votes, and his rival Maia Sandu received 47.71 percent, with 99.9 percent of the ballots counted.
The CEC said 835,010 voters chose Dodon as their next president, while 761,934 gave their votes to Sandu.
Supporters of Sandu are expected to gather late Monday in the central square of Chisinau to protest the results, as they believed the arrangements for this runoff were unfair for the pro-European candidate.
Late Sunday, Sandu told the media soon after the closing of polls that the runoff was organized badly and there weren't enough ballots at some polling stations and many people were unable to vote.
Sandu complained that her team had earlier asked for setting up additional polling stations for Moldovan expatriates, but their requests were ignored.
The insufficient amount of ballot papers abroad is seen by Sandu's supporters as an attempt to minimize the amount of votes in western European cities, an important pool of votes for the candidate.
After clinching the victory, Dodon called on Sandu to prevent destabilization in the country.
"I think everyone realized that we won in this campaign...We must do everything possible to avoid a split in society," Dodon said.
Moldova held the presidential runoff on Sunday, as none of the nine candidates competing in the presidential race received an absolute majority of the votes in the first round of direct presidential elections on Oct. 30. The presidential race marked the first time in 16 years that the country was electing its leader by national vote instead of having parliament select the head of state.
The presidential elections are generally viewed in the country as a battle between pro-Russian and pro-EU camps.
Landlocked between Romania and Ukraine, the former Soviet republic is still shrouded in the shadow of a corruption scandal in which about 1 billion U.S. dollars, or around 10 percent of the country's gross domestic product (GDP), disappeared from its banking system.
The scandal sparked large-scale protests last year, eroding confidence in pro-European politicians that have led the country since 2009 and has partially contributed to the Socialists' gain in popularity.
NEW DELHI, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Israeli President Reuven Rivlin arrived in India Monday on a six-day visit, aimed at bolstering bilateral ties.
President Rivlin landed in Mumbai in the morning, accompanied by a delegation of businessmen and academicians, and paid respects at the sites of 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in which over 170 people, including six Jews, were killed.
The visiting Israeli president will head to the Indian capital later in the evening, where he is slated to hold talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj during his stay, sources said.
He will also visit several sites of cooperation and joint projects between India and Israel, the sources said.
"I am departing now on an important visit to India, an important ally and close friend of Israel. This visit is a sign of the strong relations and friendship between our peoples, and I hope will plant the seeds for that friendship to grow closer and closer," Rivlin said in departure statement.
The last Israeli president to visit India was Ezer Weizman in January 1997, while Indian President Pranab Mukherjee visited Israel in October 2015.
JUBA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- A senior South Sudanese official has denied a UN report that the war-torn country risks spiraling into genocide due to targeted killings along ethnic lines.
Deputy Minister of Information Paul Akol Kordit told Xinhua on Monday that the report by the UN Secretary General Special Adviser for the Prevention of Genocide Adama Dieng was alarming but overstated the situation.
"I don't think this country can slide into genocide. This country has experience of conflict and emerging from it stronger. I have seen the report but the statement was overstated," Kordit said.
"What people of South Sudan need are not messages that spread fear but those that give them hope," he added.
Dieng concluded his fact-finding mission in South Sudan on Friday. He observed that the country risked falling into genocide if the government did not intervene to nip it in the bud.
"Inflammatory rhetoric, stereotyping and name calling have been accompanied by targeted killings and rape of members of particular ethnic groups," Dieng said.
He called for an end to targeted killings that have caused tension between the Equatoria region's Bari-speaking tribes and Dinka, the largest ethnic group in South Sudan.
Civil war broke out in December 2013 between government troops led by President Salva Kiir and forces loyal to sacked First Vice President Riek Machar. Tens of thousands have died and more than two million have been displaced ever since.
A peace deal signed between the rival leaders under UN pressure last year led to the formation of a unity government in April, but was shattered by renewed fighting that erupted in early July.
Machar, who had returned to his old post as Kiir's deputy in the unity government, was sacked again and fled the country after the July fighting. He is now in residence in South Africa and has asked his supporters to launch a rebellion.
Hundreds have been killed and tens of thousands forced out of their homes since July.
"Those killing civilians on the highways and targeting people on ethnic basis are criminals and the government is doing anything to deal with them. And for now we have not heard of more killings," Kordit said.
He also said that some SPLA-IO (Machar-led opposition party) officers had started to report to cantonment areas, which are established by the government, to avoid clashes.
LUSAKA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Zambia's corruption watchdog on Monday revealed that it was investigating a former minister, who was recently fired, on alleged corruption.
Last week, President Edgar Lungu fired Chishimba Kambwili, who was information and broadcasting minister.
This came barely a few days after the Zambian leader had complained that some of his ministers were engaging in corrupt activities.
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) said it has instituted investigations on alleged corrupt practices against former minister.
Timothy Moono, the watchdog's public relations manager said there has been an inquiry against the former minister of corrupt practices.
He however did not reveal more details on the matter.
"These investigations are on-going and the Commission would therefore not wish to comment further as this may jeopardize the investigations," he said in a statement.
TurKish anti-riot police officers detain protesters at Kadikoy district in Istanbul, on November 6, 2016, during a demonstration against the arrest of nine MPs of the pro-Kurdish People's Democratic Party (HDP), including the two co-leaders. (Xinhua/AFP Photo)
ISTANBUL, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- A package exploded on Monday in Istanbul's Asian district of Maltepe, wounding three people, local media reported.
The package was delivered to an electronic company by a courier, CNNTurk said, noting one of the injured was in serious condition.
Ambulances and police teams were sent to the area, and an investigation has been launched, CNNTurk said.
It said the cause of the explosion was not immediately clear.
Istanbul is being overshadowed by the threat of terrorism, as the metropolis has come under a spate of deadly attacks over the past year.
KAMPALA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Biosafety experts in East Africa are meeting in Uganda to assess the region's preparedness to prevent, detect, respond and contain natural, accidental or deliberate threats.
Ruth Aceng, Uganda's minister of health, in a statement issued ahead of the start of the two-day meeting on Monday said the experts from Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania and Kenya will look at the strategic preparedness and response capacities to deal with diseases attributed to the interface between humans and animals, and also deliberate use of biological agents (bioterrorism).
"Recent outbreaks of emerging and re-emerging diseases commonly spreading from animals to humans, what we call zoonosis, simply attest to how vulnerable we are especially considering how fatal they are, and how quickly and widely they can spread," said Aceng.
The region in the recent past has experienced Ebola, Marburg, Anthrax, Congo Crimean Fever, Rift Valley Fever and Yellow Fever outbreaks.
"In less than 36 hours, these diseases can cross to the farthest corners of the world because of our interconnectedness through travels, trade, tourism, education and all," said Aceng.
While the diseases have largely been attributed to the interface between human, animal and environmental ecosystems, the fear of bioterrorism -- the deliberate use of biological agents like Ebola, Anthrax, Multi Drug Resistant strains to cause massive destruction, is another growing threat to the region and global public health.
Aceng said the experts meeting is critical in the context of the growing number of terror groups, weak bio-banking systems, weak sector-based containment capacities, and fragmented response abilities.
The meeting held under the theme, "Bioterrorism in East Africa Region; Are we ready? Examining strategies for Biosafety and Biosecurity multi-sectoral collaboration" has attracted government officials, security experts and researchers.
KABUL, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Afghan Wolesi Jirga or Lower House of parliament disqualified another minister on Monday on the ground of failure in spending development budget, bringing the number of disqualified ministers to six since launching the move of no trust on Saturday.
On Monday's session, the lawmakers dismissed Farida Mohmand, the minister for higher education, with majority, while the minister for Urban development and the minister for Justice have survived the move.
The move has taken place amid opposition by Arg or Presidential Palace as Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani, according to local media reports, has urged Wolesi Jirga to postpone the ministers' disqualification process, a call spurned by the lawmakers.
In a similar move on Sunday, the lawmakers dismissed ministers for transport and education, but minister for finance narrowly escaped the vote of no confidence.
Earlier on Monday, the Lower House had dismissed the minister for foreign affairs, the minister for Public Works and the minister for Social Services, citing poor performances and failure to spend allocated budgetary funds on time.
The Afghan government has 25 ministries and more ministers will be summoned in coming days to the Lower House of parliament over failure of spending development budget and few more of them might be disqualified on the same ground.
Summoning and sacking ministers by Wolesi Jirga is taking place at a time when militants loyal to the hardliner Taliban and Islamic State outfits have increased activities in the insurgency-riddled country.
President Ghani, in a letter delivered to Wolesi Jirga on Sunday, asked the lawmakers to further evaluate the performances of disqualified ministers in line with the constitution.
However, the move initiated by legislators to disqualify ministers has drawn mixed reactions among Afghans, according to local media reports.
"Members of parliament should work based on the national interest and they should consider the fragility of political situation in the country," an analyst Keramudin Rezazada told local media.
"Disqualifying ministers should not continue," another analyst Sayed ali Rezas Mohamadi said, according to local media reports.
Xie Zhenhua, China's special representative on climate change affairs, addresses the opening ceremony of high-level forum on "South-South Cooperation on Climate Change" during COP22 in Marrakech, Morocco, Nov. 14, 2016. (Xinhua/Meng Tao)
MARRAKECH, Morocco, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- China stands ready to continue contributing to global efforts in addressing climate change through South-South cooperation, Xie Zhenhua, China's special representative on climate change affairs, said here Monday.
"Both South-North cooperation and the South-South cooperation among developing countries are essential for international cooperation in countering climate change," said Xie at a high-level event on the sidelines of a United Nations climate conference.
China is coping with climate change with a highly responsible attitude and is willing to share its best practices in this regard, including capacity-building, with other developing countries, Xie told the opening session of the forum on South-South cooperation.
Xie, who arrived in the southern Moroccan city Sunday, pointed out that China has actively pushed forward South-South cooperation through various mechanisms.
He underscored that China has donated a considerable amount of materials to developing countries to help them address climate change issues according to their own requirements, such as energy-saving lamps and clean cook stoves.
He noted that China has signed some 27 Memorandums of Understandings on donating materials to developing countries to help them address climate change and has carried out numerous regional dialogues and exchanges with Southern countries.
Xie reaffirmed China's plan to set up a 20 billion yuan (2.93 billion U.S. dollars) fund for South-South cooperation, saying that China will use the fund to establish low-carbon model parks, implement mitigation and adaption projects and train personnel in developing countries.
China has since 2011 earmarked a total of around 85 million dollars for low-carbon, energy-saving, capacity-building and other projects in developing countries, he said.
The forum, co-organized by China, Morocco, and the United Nations, brought together senior UN officials and ministers from more than a dozen countries. The participants will discuss the role of South-South cooperation in addressing climate change and building the capacity of developing countries and explore ways of financing for climate efforts and sustainable development.
by Xinhua writer Huang Xin
BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- By floating an emergency plan for local government debt risks Monday, China has addressed an issue that has made headlines for years.
The four-grade emergency plan, which could mean "fiscal re-balancing" on the part of local government, is a precautionary arrangement rather than an alarm for a crisis, said experts.
"We should make it clear that no crisis has ever occurred. The plan is more like a barrier against risk," said Zhao Quanhou, director of the financial research office of the Research Institute for Fiscal Science at the Ministry of Finance (MOF).
Data from the ministry showed total local government debt in China stood at 16 trillion yuan (about 2.35 trillion U.S. dollars) at the end of 2015 with a 38.9-percent debt-to-GDP ratio -- markedly lower than the 60-percent alert line of the European Union and other major economies.
With Grade I being the most serious, classification is based on the nature and impact of any incident, according to the State Council announcement.
City and county governments will fiscally re-balance if their annual interest payments on general debt are 10 percent higher than their public spending budgets, or if interest on special debts is 10 percent more than their government fund budgets.
"The fiscal rebalancing act is actually a rearrangement of government budgets. It is different from debt restructuring or a government bankruptcy plan," said Zhang Bin, a researcher with the Chinese Academy of Social Science (CASS).
According to the plan, once the local government launches fiscal rebalancing, it should take a slew of measures -- such as clearing up overdue taxes and owed fees, reducing expenditures and disposal of government assets -- to restore fiscal balance, guaranteed by the basic public service and effective operation of the government.
A senior official with the MOF said the precautionary arrangement is consistent with the nation's Budget Law and serves as a powerful measure to strengthen local government debt management.
Monday's announcement reaffirmed the central government will not become involved in bailouts and local government officials involved in graded incidents will be held accountable, even if they leave office.
While Chinese authorities have said the nation's debt risks are controllable, they still face challenges at the local level featuring illegal financing guarantees and fake public-private partnerships (PPPs).
By the end of 2015, the provinces of Zhejiang, Sichuan, Shandong and Henan had registered a total of 15.35 billion yuan in outstanding debt involving irregularities, according to latest statistics with the National Audit Office.
Local government debts soared during an investment and construction binge following the global financial crisis in 2008.
China has put a ceiling on the amount of local government debt. The total outstanding debt of the nation's local governments must be kept under 17.2 trillion yuan at the end of 2016, according to the central budget for 2016.
Risks will be eased by putting in place accountability mechanisms, said Bai Chongen, a Tsinghua University professor and member of the central bank monetary policy committee.
"The lifelong accountability system for officials will serve as a great deterrent against involvement in foul debts," said Zhang with CASS.
To rein in rising debt risks, China overhauled the management of government debts two years ago, streamlining fund-raising channels for local authorities and putting a cap on their annual bond issuance.
Government bonds are used to raise funds for urban infrastructure construction and public facilities. The nation is ramping up public spending to shore up the economy as private investment turned sluggish this year in fear of a continued slowdown.
A debt-for-bond swap program was introduced to convert outstanding debts. By the end of September, local governments had replaced 7.2 trillion yuan of debts under the program, according to the MOF.
The MOF said the debt level will remain stable for the remainder of the year and beyond thanks to growing fiscal incomes and GDP.
With its economic restructuring showing nascent progress, China's economy grew 6.7 percent in the third quarter, holding steady from the first two quarters of the year.
(Xinhua reporters Han Jie, Liu Hongxia and Li Jingfeng contributed to the story.)
Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan (3rd R Front) and Iranian Defense Minister Hossein Dehqan (2nd R Front) inspect guards of honor in Iran's capital Tehran, Nov. 14, 2016. Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan on Monday held talks with Iranian Defense Minister Hossein Dehqan in Tehran. (Xinhua/Mu Dong)
TEHRAN, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan on Monday held talks with Iranian Defense Minister Hossein Dehqan in Tehran.
Chang said the development of bilateral relations between China and Iran is not only positive for mutual interest of Chinese and Iranian peoples, but also positive for world peace and stability.
Witnessing increased mutual visits and personnel training cooperation between the armed forces in recent years, Chang said he is confident that the friendly relations between the two countries as well as the armed forces will be further reinforced.
Dehqan hailed Chang's remarks, voicing the hope that further military exchange and cooperation between Iran and China will continue to play a positive role in safeguarding regional peace and world stability.
Chang arrived in Tehran on Sunday for a three-day visit at the invitation of Dehqan.
GAZA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- A senior Islamic Hamas movement leader on Monday called for forming a new body to replace Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) which is chaired by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
Mahmoud al-Zahar, Hamas strongman in Gaza, made his call during his participation in a workshop organized by organized Hamas in Gaza to debate initiatives aimed at ending the current freeze in the Palestinian situation.
"The Palestinian factions are urged to form a new organization instead of the PLO that adopts the choice of armed resistance against the Israeli occupation," al-Zahar told the participants in the workshop.
He reminded that "the PLO recognition of the Israeli occupation 20 years ago was the biggest disaster that happened to the Palestinian people."
Al-Zahar said that his movement is a major foe to President Abbas Fatah Party and doubts that Abbas Fatah Party will dare to annul Oslo peace accords signed between the PLO and the Israeli occupation in 1993.
"I believe that it is impossible for Fatah to quit Oslo because its security apparatuses are living and counting on the security cooperation with the Israeli occupation," said al-Zahar.
He noted that "if Fatah and the PLO wouldn't be able to annul Oslo, we should look for an alternative and form a new body that adopts the armed resistance against the Israeli occupation."
Hamas violently seized control of the Gaza Strip in 2007 following weeks of internal fighting with Abbas security forces. Hamas won the parliamentary elections held in the Palestinian territories in 2006.
GAZA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Egypt temporarily reopened on Monday Rafah crossing point with the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip for five days.
Mohamed Odwan, the Palestinian director of the Hamas-run part of the crossing, told reporters that the crossing was reopened to enable around 25,000 Gaza Strip residents to travel from Gaza to Egypt and then to the entire world.
Rafah crossing point is the only crossing for around 2 million people residents of the Gaza Strip, that has been ruled by Hamas movement since the summer of 2007.
Eyewitnesses and workers at Rafah crossing said that four buses with full of passengers had already crossed from the Palestinian side to the Egyptian side.
"Reopening Rafah crossing point for five days is a positive step that we highly appreciate," said Odwan, adding "We hope the temporary opening of the crossing will be a positive introduction for a permanent reopening of the crossing."
Last week, Egypt reopened Rafah crossing point for one day to enable the return of 100 Palestinian figures, which included businessmen, notables and civil society activists, to the Gaza Strip.
The 100-figure delegation joined a three-day workshop held in a Red Sea resort in Egypt to discuss the urgent needs of the coastal enclave's populations and the improving of their hard living conditions.
SALT LAKE CITY, United States, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- China's Sunway TaihuLight has unsurprisingly won the title as the world's fastest machine again, according to the latest edition of the semiannual Top500 list of supercomputers released Monday.
ISTANBUL, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- An explosion hit an industrial zone in the Turkish city of Istanbul on Monday, wounding at least 10 people, local media reported.
The blast occurred at a manufacturing workshop within the industrial zone in Istanbul's Asian district of Sultanbeyli, the Hurriyet daily said.
The CNNTurk said a boiler inside the workshop exploded. Fire brigades and ambulances were dispatched to the scene, the reports said.
Hours earlier, a package delivered to an electronic company in Istanbul's another Asian district of Maltepe went off when opened, wounding three people.
ANKARA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Turkey could hold a Brexit-like referendum next year on whether to continue membership talks with the EU, Turkish President Erdogan said Monday, local NTV reported.
Erdogan slammed European Parliament (EP) President Martin Schulz for his remarks that the EU could impose sanctions on Turkey following its anti-terror arrests.
In a televised speech, Erdogan cited to calls from some EU members states to stop membership negotiations with Turkey and said "You are even too late. Make up your mind immediately," he said.
"We will be patient until the end of the year, and then go to public vote. Final decision shall be made by the nation. Let's ask the nation," he stated.
If Turkish parliament passes a law on reinstating death penalty, he would approve it, the president said.
Meanwhile,Turkish Deputy prime minister Numan Kurtulmus also slammed European Parliament President Schulz on Monday for signaling that the EU could impose sanctions on Turkey following its anti-terror arrests.
"It is impossible to understand Mr. Schulz's threatening remarks," he said.
He blasted the recent EU Progress Report on Turkey for being "biased" and "not friendly."
Kurtulmus said that Turkey rejects the report, which was released last week, and includes the July 15 failed coup attempt and the follow-up arrests.
Turkey is under fierce critic by EU over its post-coup attempts measures including thousands of purges and detentions on opponents and alleged plotters, including pro-Kurdish MPs.
Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) holds a welcoming ceremony for Peru's President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski before their talks outside the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 13, 2016. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)
LIMA, Nov. 13 (Xinhua) -- Peru and China are in the right time to further promote their economic ties to higher level, said Peruvian economist to Xinhua ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to the South American country.
"The most important task is now to consolidate the advances in economic relations made since Peru and China began their free-trade agreement (FTA) in 2010," Peruvian economist, Fernando Gonzalez, told Xinhua.
In terms of China's vision of Peru, the director of the APEC Studies Center, explained that "China has a very clear strategy based on continued results, boosting its own production chain for industry and services, and seeing ever more sophisticated technological development."
"China is a country of high efficiency. These capacities are not limited to production but extend to how to make pragmatic public policies," added Gonzalez.
He said that, after the visit of Peru's Pedro Pablo Kuczynski to China in September and the upcoming visit by President Xi Jinping to Lima in November, the two countries "must resolve any problems that remain and focus on the fundamentals."
Image taken on Jan. 29, 2016 shows the concentrator plant of the mine site of the company Shougang Hierro Peru, in the district of Marcona, province of Nazca, Ica, Peru. (Xinhua/Luis Camacho)
According to Gonzalez, both sides need to improve cooperation in mining areas and allow China's ICBC bank to open up more financial services in the country.
Moving on to the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP), Gonzalez said this was an initiative to minimize divisions within the region and help to create one large free-trade zone.
"This is a project that unites China and the U.S., and it drives to work together while managing their rivalries in the most civilized possible. This is the central topic for the future of the Asia-Pacific, for peace and prosperity in the region," he continued.
It would essentially unite the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), between ASEAN, and six other Pacific economies, and the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).
The academic concluded that "it is an honor for Peru to host the one more step of the Beijing Roadmap being taken this year."
GUANGZHOU, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- A three-day international academic seminar on Sun Yat-sen began on Monday in south China's Guangdong Province to commemorate the 150th anniversary of his birth.
The conference held in Zhongshan City, Sun's birthplace, was attended by more than 130 scholars from nearly 70 research institutions in countries such as China, France, Japan, Russia, Singapore and the United States.
Born in 1866, Sun was the founder of the Kuomintang Party, and is a revered revolutionary leader who played a pivotal role in overthrowing imperial rule in China.
Attendees will discuss Sun's political, military, economic ideas. Some 90 theses were selected from several hundred papers for the seminar.
Sun is important in China's modern historical research and there have been new findings and contributions in study of him in recent years, said Xiong Yuezhi, a Chinese scholar.
Academics should conduct more detailed research on Sun, said Wang Weiguang, president of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.
A series of events have been held recently across China to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Sun's birth.
JERUSALEM, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Israel's Supreme Court denied a request by the State of Israel on Monday to postpone evacuating an unauthorized Jewish outpost built on private Palestinian land in the West Bank.
The ruling puts Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's far-right coalition at odds with the country's top court, amidst efforts by the government to retroactively legalize the outpost.
In 2014, the Supreme Court ruled that Amona was illegally built on private Palestinian land and must be demolished by December 25, 2016.
However, pressured by his far-right partners - Jewish Home and Israel Our Home - Netanyahu agreed to petition the court for a seven-month postponement.
On Monday, the court unanimously rejected the petition, noting that the government has repeatedly postponed executing the evacuation time.
"In this case, as with previous ones, we have been asked at the last minute to extend the date of an evacuation that was set by a judgment," said the court, according to a copy of the decision sent to Xinhua.
The judges said that if they continue to allow these extensions, the dates set might "turn into recommendations," instead of orders.
The judges addressed a secret review submitted to the court by Israel's Shin Bet security service, which warned that evictions might trigger a violent reaction by settlers, with consequences to "the security of the region."
According to the judges, these types of threats communicate the message that executing judgments can be prevented by threats of violence, "a message with which cannot be accepted in a state of law," said the judges.
In recent years, settlers reacted aggressively to several attempts by the state to evict the unauthorized outpost.
The reactions involved clashes with security forces and the so-called "price tag" attacks, when ultra-nationalist Israelis assaulted Palestinians and their properties.
The ruling comes a day after the government's Ministerial Committee for Legislative Affairs voted in favor of a bill to prevent the eviction.
The government's Ministerial Committee for Legislative Affairs is chaired by Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked from the pro-settler Jewish Home party.
The bill aims to legalize the outpost by allowing the government to expropriate Palestinian land on which it was built.
The proposed legislation still needs to be voted in the Knesset, or parliament, and is scheduled for a preliminary reading in the Knesset plenum on Wednesday.
The Israeli anti-settlement organization Peace Now condemned the decision, saying it would petition the Supreme Court should the bill pass.
Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit warned ministers that such a law would be unconstitutional and that he will not be able to defend it in court.
This law is expected to trigger angry responses from Palestinians and the international community, who consider the settlements constructed on lands where Palestinians wish to establish their future state as a major obstacle to peace.
Amona, east of Ramallah city, is the largest among the so-called "unauthorized outposts," which are communities built by far-right Israelis without government permits.
There are about 100 unauthorized outposts and 120 settlements that Israel considers legal.
However, both outposts and settlements are illegal under international law as they were built on lands occupied by Israel in the 1967 Mideast War.
VIENTIANE, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Laos has made great strides in development, and extreme poverty has fallen below 24 percent, reads a press release of the World Bank (WB) on Monday.
During her recent visits to Laos' Vientiane and the Khammoune province on Nov. 9-12, World Bank Regional Vice President for East Asia and Pacific Victoria Kwakwa said she has seen how people's living conditions have improved, particularly among households with access to electricity. People are now enjoying better water supply and sanitation, and with more roads built, are more connected than ever.
On her visit to Laos, Kwakwa reaffirmed the WB's strong support for programs and policies to promote inclusive growth, invest in human development and protect the environment, as identified in the eighth National Socio-Economic Development Plan, also known as the NSEDP.
Laos has many opportunities to maintain strong growth and create more jobs while protecting its rich natural resources, Kwakwa said, commending Laos for its increased focus on green growth, which focuses on maintaining robust income growth and development while protecting the environment.
"The WB Group supports the Lao authorities' strategy to pursue diversified, green growth, with a view to advancing beyond Least Developed Country status and providing lasting and accessible opportunities for better health, nutrition and education services, as well as more jobs for the country's poor," she was quoted as saying on WB website.
The WB Group is committed to providing financing for critical programs and investments in Laos in both private and public sectors. Key investments expected to benefit from WB Group support include programs to improve the trade and business environment, improve the access to high quality education and health care, reduce the incidence of malnutrition, and support environmental protection and sustainable national resources management.
The WB press release said about 44 percent of children in Laos are stunted, one of the highest rates in the world. In southern Sekong and northern Phongsaly provinces, even more than 60 percent of children are stunted.
"The NSEDP correctly puts the development of human resources first, as strong education, skills, and health will allow people to participate in the growing Lao economy, said Kwakwa.
"Chronic malnutrition among young children is a major challenge, and the WB supports the government's Health Governance and Nutrition Development Program to help improve child nutrition by focusing on infant and child feeding practices through a national behavior change campaign."
File photo shows a staff of the WFP (United Nations World Food Programme) helps the South Sudanese refugees carry relief materials in a UN camp in Juba, capital of South Sudan, Dec. 29, 2013.(Xinhua/Lv Rui)
JUBA, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Some 3.6 million people are estimated to be highly food insecure in South Sudan during the ongoing lean season, says the World Food Program (WFP).
A WFP analysis says food security situation in the war-torn country has continued to deteriorate, with the number of people projected to face acute food insecurity likely to rise to 4.6 million in the coming months.
"Needs are expected to increase further in the first quarter of next year, with likely 4.6 million people in need of assistance," the WFP said in a report received on Monday.
The WFP said it is scaling up its response to the declining food and nutrition security situation in the country, reaching over 3.4 million people so far this year and aiming to reach 4.1 million by mid-2017.
The WFP said its mobile teams recently concluded distributions of one-month food rations to approximately 50,000 people in the southwestern town of Yei, where people have been affected by fighting and violence.
Renewed fighting erupted in South Sudan between rival political factions in early July. Hundreds of people have been killed and tens of thousands displaced since then.
The WFP said it would launch a "special operation" for the rehabilitation of the road from Kosti in White Nile state to Renk in Upper Nile state, which it says is critical for the delivery of life-saving food assistance.
The 2.5 million U.S. dollar project is expected to be approved in the coming week.
South Sudan's civil war since its outbreak in December 2013 has killed tens of thousands and displaced more than two million people.
In the wake of recent fighting in July between government troops led by President Salva Kiir and troops loyal to sacked First Vice President Riek Machar, more than 60,000 people have sought refuge in neighboring countries.
VIENTIANE, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Tens of thousands of Lao nationals and tourists, together with the country's leaders, gathered at the annual almsgiving ceremony of the That Luang Festival, the biggest religious ceremony of the country, in capital Vientiane on Monday.
The religious ceremony to pay homage to the That Luang stupa on Monday morning was attended by Lao communist party and government leaders including President Bounnhang Vorachit and his predecessor Choummaly Sayasone, Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith, along with other senior officials, and country representatives of foreign embassies and non-governmental organizations.
Traditionally the almsgiving ceremony, along with the playing of the traditional games Tee Khee and the candlelit procession marching around the grand stupa, were also held on the waxing moon of December of the Lao lunar calendar marking the end of the annual celebration, according to Lao News Agency on Monday.
This year's festival holds greater significance than usual as it marks the 450th anniversary of the building of the nation's iconic symbol, the golden That Luang stupa. There was also an extra surprise in store for visitors as there were several exhibitions featuring a traditional village and various aspects of the Lao lifestyle since the 16th century.
Built in 1566 by King Setthathirat, That Luang is the national symbol and most important religious monument in Laos. The That Luang Festival or Boun That Luang is Vientiane's most important Buddhist festival. Enditem
by Marian Draganov
SOFIA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- After the ruling GERB party lost Bulgaria's presidential vote on Sunday and the prime minister resigned on Monday, the Balkan country is going to face unpredictable early parliamentary elections, analysts said.
With some 99 percent of ballots counted, General Rumen Radev, a candidate backed by the opposition Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP), won 59.35 percent of the vote against 36.17 percent for the GERB party candidate Tsetska Tsacheva and 4.48 percent preferred the option "none of the above."
Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov, who heads the GERB party, said on Sunday night that this meant there was a new political situation in the country, and submitted the resignation of his government to the National Assembly on Monday.
Meanwhile, he said that his party, which came to power in November 2014 in coalition with the Reformist Bloc, the Patriotic Front and ABV, definitely wanted early elections.
Korneliya Ninova, leader of BSP, the second largest party in parliament, said in turn that her party would not try to form a government within this National Assembly, also called for early parliamentary elections.
Ninova stressed that the leaders of all parliamentary parties have to be responsible statesmen, ensure law and order in Bulgaria, and not allow political instability.
Earlier on Sunday, Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev, who will serve until Jan. 22, 2017, said "finding a sustainable governance formula within the current National Assembly depends only on the political parties and the executive branch of government."
"It is too early to form a caretaker government," Plevneliev said, adding that he was ready to hold consultations and a dialogue with everyone, including the newly-elected president, in order "to have stability and functioning institutions achieved in the state."
However, Nayden Zelenogorski, co-chairperson of the parliamentary group of the Reformist Bloc, said it was obvious that early parliamentary elections are coming, probably in March or April 2017.
Various political analysts agreed that early parliamentary elections in Bulgaria are inevitable, and it was not clear who would come to power as a result.
Ognyan Minchev said that the results of the presidential elections showed a serious crisis of confidence in GERB, but there is no clear alternative to the government.
Andrei Raichev held the opinion that the era of Borissov was over but GERB is the largest party in Bulgaria, and will probably have the biggest parliamentary group in the next National Assembly.
Kolyo Kolev, director of Mediana Polling Agency, said in an interview with Xinhua that "it's too early to predict what will happen after the elections, but the next government will most likely be a broad coalition without the participation of GERB."
It was also possible that a new political force would emerge, but this new force would hardly win the majority in the next parliament, Kolev said.
DAR ES SALAAM, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Germany on Monday announced an 11-million-Euro support to Tanzania in coping with the influx of refugees from Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Egon Kochanke, the German Ambassador to Tanzania, said the funds will support ongoing operations of the World Food Programme (WFP), the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and non-governmental organizations assisting refugees in the East African country.
"Our additional assistance comes in full recognition of Tanzania's humanitarian leadership role in providing a safe-haven for thousands of refugees who have fled conflicts in Burundi and Congo," he told a news conference in the commercial capital Dar es Salaam.
Michael Dunford, WFP Representative in Tanzania, said the UN food agency needed over 6 million U.S. dollars a month for providing food to the refugees.
"More support is needed from development partners like Germany as the number of refugees is increasing day after day," said Dunford.
Chansa Kapaya, UNHCR Representative in Tanzania, said there were currently more than 245,083 refugees in Tanzania coming from Burundi and DRC.
"The situation in refugees' camps in western Tanzania is pathetic. There is congestion. The refugees don't have toilets and water. And most of the children are not going to school due to shortage of qualified teachers and other school materials," she said. Enditem
TEHRAN, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Ministry of Petroleum said Monday that energy giants, France's Total and the Netherlands' Shell, have joined a fresh round of talks between Iran and Oman for the construction of a sub-sea gas pipeline, state-owned Press TV reported.
The ministry also said that Iran and Oman are approaching Korea Gas Corporation for its possible participation in the project.
According to the outlines of the project, Iran would export an annual 10 billion cubic meters of natural gas to neighboring Oman when the pipeline comes on stream.
Under a contract between the two countries in March 2014, Iran's gas would be pumped from the southern Iranian province of Hormuzgan to Oman's Sohar port, where it would join Oman's domestic natural gas network.
The accord is a 25-year deal with a value of about 60 billion U.S. dollars.
It is reported that Oman might have some of the imported gas liquefied for export to its neighbors, in addition to the country's own domestic use.
Despite huge gas reserves in the south, Iran has been slow to enhance its gas production due to Western sanctions in the past years.
BANGKOK, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) Public and private sectors across the ICT industry gathered here in Bangkok to talk about collaboration while Chinese ICT giant Huawei asks for a better connected world during the ITU Telecom World 2016 which will last from Monday to Friday.
In the forum section followed by a opening ceremony on Monday morning, participants expressed their opinions about the ICT industry development.
"Within the ICT industry, it is the innovative small and medium enterprises tech SMEs that are key to industry disruption, to job creation, and to the technological innovations that are taking the industry forward, said Houlin Zhao, secretary-general of International Telecommunication Union.
Prajin Juntong, Thai deputy prime Minister and acting minister of Digital Economy and Society emphasized that "ICT is not for those who can afford it but we must allow those who are most in need to benefit from it to not be left behind.
Besides these forums, many telecom carriers and ICT enterprises set up pavilions to show their latest technology and ideas during the 5-day event.
Chinese ICT giant Huaweis pavilion shows its latest ideas and experiences in cloud, national broadband networks, ultra-fast wireless communications, and smart devices.
In the pavilion, Huawei showed how cloud can make our world connected in the future.
People can unlock the door of their house with a click on smartphones and control other furnitures and equipments at home in the same way, governments can be connected with their people and thus service their people better, patientss health data from birth are all in a cloud for doctors to refer to, data of every motor vehicle is in a cloud for traffic police and hospitals to follow in case of an emergency, and for insurance companies to check
In order to achieve such a connected digital society, he company suggests countries around the world to make their ICT regulation less restrictive but more comprehensive.
The company says every country should be building more digital infrastructure to fuel a high quality economic transformation and long-term, sustainable growth.
"Data centers and broadband networks are a vital part of the national information infrastructure. Huawei is committed to building a better connected world, and we believe that for any developing nation or region seeking dramatic development, it is vital for them to use the levers of policy, to coordinate on standards and to accelerate infrastructure developments, said Zou Zhilei, president of Huawei's Carrier Business Group.
Zou added that Huawei is now a leading provider of global ICT solutions and the company is ready to work with all nations to develop their broadband capacity."
With a developed broadband capacity, the future society that Huawei described is a one with ubiquitous sensors, ubiquitous connectivity, and ubiquitous intelligence.
MADRID, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy on Monday received his Portuguese counterpart Antonio Costa at his official visit in the Palacio de la Moncloa in Madrid.
Costa is the first foreign leader to visit Spain since Rajoy's return to office at the end of October, which highlights the good relationship between the two neighboring countries.
In a meeting described "as a working meeting followed by lunch," the two leaders discussed bilateral issues, as well as European and international affairs, such as the questions to be dealt with at the forthcoming meeting of the European Council on Dec. 15-16.
"The leader of Portugal will always be welcome in Spain," said Rajoy in the posterior press conference.
When asked about the results of the U.S. elections later in the conference, Rajoy said he "respected the wishes of the American people in their election" in choosing Donald Trump.
"Spain will continue working to cultivate our relationship with a national that is both an ally and a friend," he said, refusing to be drawn on the recent meeting between U.S. president-elect Trump and Nigel Farage, the leader of British euro-sceptic party, UKIP.
"I am not going to comment on the meeting, he (Trump) can meet whoever he wants to meet," commented Rajoy.
The Spanish prime minister also highlighted the importance to combat climate change, stressing that his new government had "remitted the Paris Climate Change agreement to Parliament," something that the lack of government in Spain had not permitted for the past 10 months.
Screenshot shows the Athens Acropolis on Nov. 10, 2016. A team of Xinhua reporters are now exploring Greece. A highlight of the exploration is to get a panoramic view of some incredible Greek cultural heritages, including the Acropolis and underwater relics, by using virtual reality(VR) technology. According to Greek cultural protection authorities, Xinhua is the first authorized Chinese media outlet to make a VR product out of the country's world famous archaeological sites and relics. (Xinhua)
ATHENS, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Ascending the Athenian Acropolis, acknowledged by UNESCO as a timeless symbol of the world's cultural heritage, is considered as a must have experience at least once in life. However, the steep rocky hill in the heart of the Greek capital which embodies Classical Greece's ideals remains out of reach for many.
Xinhua News Agency in collaboration with the Greek Culture Ministry embarked this November on an unprecedented mission to capture Greece's unique cultural treasures with Virtual Reality (VR) cameras and drones, allowing people across the globe to take a 360-degree look at the Sacred Rock, as well as a panoramic aerial view of the breathtaking monuments built in the 5th century BC.
Xinhua's team is producing a documentary on Greece's rich ancient civilization relics filming with the latest technological tools the Acropolis, as well as the underwater antiquities discovered at the seabed of south Peloponnese peninsula.
Standing in front of the Parthenon temple on a sunny day, Vassiliki Eleftheriou, director of the Acropolis Restoration Service, which realizes all restoration works on the hill since 2000, spoke to Xinhua about the challenges of the task which is a national priority for Greece despite the current economic difficulties.
Eleftheriou warmly welcomed the use of technology in documenting the site with more accuracy and bringing it closer to wider audiences.
The drones flying around the ruins of Propylaea, Erechtheion and the Athena Nike temple captured from a bird's eye view the cranes, archaeologists and marble technicians operating on the site, as Theodosis Tzavaras, the operator of the VR camera, wearing a robotic arm filmed details in 360 degrees.
"You have everything in your frame," he explained with enthusiasm, as tourists visiting the Sacred Rock were watching the filming, expressing eagerness to see the result.
Angeliki Simosi, head of the Greek Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities, which is responsible for the preservation of ancient relics under sea, also shared their enthusiasm on the new perspectives VR technology and drones offer, while giving a tour to Xinhua's team of the submerged treasures of Navarino Bay off Pylos town.
A picture taken on Nov. 12, 2016 shows a underwater photographer filming columns on the seabed near Methoni in the southwest Greek municipality of Pylos-Nestoras.The columns are believed to be built by King Herod in Caesarea, Palestine in the 1st Century, AD. (Xinhua)
Off the coast of Sapienza island, braving the rough seas, Xinhua produced an underwater VR video which will help reveal more details and perhaps solve the mysteries of the two Roman era shipwrecks of the sarcophagi and columns, as well as the modern wreckage of the Greek oil tanker Irene Serenade which sank in the bay in 1980.
In contrast to the monumental complex of the Acropolis of Athens, the greatest and finest example of the beauty and glory of Greek ancient civilization at its peak, the underwater treasures of Navarino traced at a depth of 10-15 meters have still not been fully documented.
Xinhua's production will take audiences for the first time on a virtual reality trip to the site where Greek authorities aim to create underwater archaeological museums and diving parks in the future to promote Greece's cultural heritage.
ACCRA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama assured businesses and investors here on Monday that the country will not "blow up" despite the competitive nature of the upcoming polls in December.
He assured them of a stable and peaceful business environment ahead of next month's general election for which he is seeking re-election.
"One of the things which have made Ghana an attractive place for doing business is our stability and our democracy and the respect for rule of law,"the president stated.
On the economic slowdown across the world, the president maintained that Ghana was fortunate to have gone through the crisis way ahead of the rest of the world, adding that necessary measures were put in place to contain any further deterioration.
"As a result of that, we started structural reforms at the right time. So you notice that our economy is showing some more resilience in this period when everybody is facing economic headwinds," he said. Enditem
VALLETTA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Malta saw the biggest increase in the length of working life in the EU between 2005 and 2015, figures issued by Eurostat on Monday showed.
The expected duration of working life has increased in all EU member states, albeit to different extents.
It has risen the most in Malta (5.1 years), followed by Hungary (4.2 years), Luxembourg (3.1 years), Estonia (3.0 years) and Lithuania (2.9 years), while it remained nearly the same in Denmark, Portugal and Ireland.
The overall increase in duration of working life was generally driven across member states by the change in women's duration of working life.
The latter has increased between 2005 and 2015 in all EU states, notably in Malta (8.6 years), Spain (5.1 years), Luxembourg (4.7 years).
By contrast, the duration of working life for men has dropped in five member states, with men in Cyprus working 1.9 years less, in Greece 1.4 years less, with Ireland, Spain and Portugal standing at one year or under.
Across the EU member states, the average working life in 2015 was expected to be the longest in Sweden (41.2 years), ahead of the Netherlands (39.9 years), Denmark (39.2 years).
At the opposite end of the scale, working life was expected to last less than 33 years in Italy (30.7 years), Bulgaria (32.1 years), Greece (32.3 years). In all member states except Lithuania, the duration of working life was expected to be longer for men than for women.
The expected duration of working life in the European Union (EU) stood at 35.4 years on average in 2015, up by 1.9 years compared with 2005. Enditem
KIGALI, Nov, 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese scientist Zhao Dongyuan scooped the 2016 TWAS-Lenovo Science Prize for his works on nano materials.
The award, one of the most prestigious honors given to scientists in the developing world, was announced Monday at the ongoing 27th The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) general meeting in the Rwandan capital Kigali.
Zhao is credited for developing innovative nano-sized materials that can be used to clean water, deliver medicine and improve batteries.
The chemistry professor at Fudan University in Shanghai, China, focuses on mesoporous materials -- structures that feature tiny, microscopic holes.
The annual prize including 100,000 U.S. dollars is provided by China's largest computer maker Lenovo.
The TWAS-Lenovo Prize focuses on recognizing outstanding work in basic sciences, with the subject area changing each year -- Physics and Astronomy in 2013, Biological Sciences in 2014, Mathematics in 2015 and Chemical Sciences in 2016.
Each year the Academy also awards individual prizes of 15,000 dollars to scientists who have been working and living in a developing country for at least 10 years.
NEW YORK, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Americans who have so far never been to China have a "handy channel" to explore the land of endless wonders from Monday to Nov.28.
They could get of glimpses of the top natural and historical attractions of the robust country, starting from Monday morning local time, on one of the most visible billboards in the world at the Times Square.
A 50-second advertising video, featuring top Chinese tourist destinations including the Great Wall, the Forbidden City in Beijing, and the Potala Palace in Lhasa, is being posted China National Tourism Administration and China Public Diplomacy Association on a spectacular on 2 Times Square, the building that is the northern anchor of the district.
The video, running 48 to 120 times each day from Nov. 14 to Nov. 28, is a prelude to the launching of the closing ceremony of the 2016 China-U.S. Tourism Year and a grand event with 5,000 Chinese tourists visiting the U.S. in Washing D.C. and other parts of the United States in late November, according to an official with the Chinese Consulate in New York on Monday.
The events and activities hosted during the China-US Tourism Year are aimed at promoting a steady growth of U.S. tourists travelling to China as well as an early realization of the goal of 5 million trips between the two nations in 2016.
China has become the No. 1 travel destination for US tourists in the Asia-Pacific and the U.S. is the third biggest source country travelling to China.
by Xinhua writer Zhang Xu
MARRAKECH, Morocco, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Braving the chills in Marrakech, delegates attending a United Nations conference on climate change crossed through low-carbon fabricated pavilions, pondering pragmatic prescriptions to curb the fever gripping mother Earth.
As has been always the case, China, as the largest developing country, has taken concrete moves to act on its pledges on this issue of global concern.
From billions of dollars in climate investment over the years to Yangtze electric shuttle buses serving the conference in Marrakech, one can see China's role as a positive force behind endeavors to save the planet.
As Chinese Ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai put it, "whatever other countries may do or may not do, China will continue to make genuine efforts to respond to climate change to seek to realize green and sustainable development."
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AS STRATEGY
Since 1997, when sustainable development was set as a national strategy, China has been stressing its crucial role both domestically and at world forums.
Last September, while chairing a United Nations roundtable on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Chinese Premier Li Keqiang unveiled the country's national plan for implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
As the first national blueprint that specifies various domains and concrete goal-oriented measures, the plan comprehensively expounds China's development policy and its efforts to help other developing countries forge ahead with the process of global implementation.
Pursuing sustainable development is the fundamental solution to all kinds of global problems, the premier said, adding that as a responsible developing country, China is willing to join in relevant international efforts and continuously increase investment in South-South cooperation.
SOUTH-SOUTH COOPERATION
"China plays a 'very important' role in promoting and consolidating South-South partnership," said Salaheddine Mezouar, president of the 22nd Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP22), on Saturday.
Cooperation among developing countries, with its great potential in managing climate change, is a main area of discussion at COP22, to help developing economies come up with common responses to their pressing needs.
Xie Zhenhua, China's special representative on climate change affairs, said here Monday that China stands ready to continue contributing to global efforts in addressing climate change through South-South cooperation.
China is willing to share its best practices, including in capacity-building, with other developing countries, Xie told the opening session of a forum on South-South cooperation.
With 27 MoUs signed and many regional dialogues and exchanges, China has made considerable donations to other developing countries to help them address climate change issues according to their own requirements, Xie said.
CHINA'S CONTRIBUTION
Standing as an active contributor in the global climate campaign, China, itself still a developing country, now tops the world in conservation efforts and utilization of new and renewable energies.
Since 2011, China has earmarked around 85 million U.S. dollars for low-carbon, energy-saving, capacity-building and other projects in developing countries.
"China becomes the largest investor for renewable energies across the world," said Fatih Birol, executive director of the International Energy Agency. "It shows the Chinese commitment towards climate change and tackling air pollution."
Earlier November, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) Erik Solheim, hailed China's contribution to advancing the global green agenda, commending China for its "robust leadership" in advancing the December 2015 Paris Agreement.
Signed during COP21, the Paris Agreement entered into force on Nov. 4, committing its 180 signatories to limiting global warming to under 2 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial levels.
At the Paris climate summit in late 2015, Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated China's pledge to cut its carbon emissions per unit of GDP by 60-65 percent from the 2005 levels by 2030.
On Monday in Marrakech, Xie, China's top climate change envoy, reaffirmed the country's plan to set up a 20 billion yuan (2.93 billion U.S. dollars) fund for South-South cooperation, to help establish low-carbon model parks, implement mitigation and adaption projects, and train personnel in developing countries.
Laura Tuck, vice president for sustainable development of the World Bank, on Friday praised as "impressive" China's planned Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), which will be worth 50 billion dollars, the largest in the world.
China is the first developing country to set up a national carbon emissions trading market, based on its seven pilots that are running now.
Xie Ji, deputy chief of the Chinese delegation to COP22, said on Thursday that China has set up an ambitious target of reaching the peaking of CO2 emissions around the year 2030.
"Many cities promised they can reach their peaking before 2030, and a few cities are trying to achieve the target around 2020," Xie said, adding that many industries, especially energy intensive ones, were asked to cut CO2 emissions and try to reach the peaking around 2020.
TEHRAN, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Monday that Iran and Russia are determined to enhance their cooperation and relations in all fields.
Russia is an important friend and neighbor of Iran and both countries have common regional and global interests, said Rouhani during a meeting with visiting Russian Federation Council Chairperson Valentina Ivanovna Matvienko in Tehran on Monday.
"There is a strategic cooperation between Iran and Russia to fight terrorism and such cooperation will continue until the eradication of terrorism in the region," he was quoted as saying by Press TV.
He urged Tehran and Moscow to further improve ties in the economic, cultural, scientific and technological fields.
He was also quoted as saying that developing banking and economic cooperation, facilitation of customs-related issues and visa issuance process can speed up trade ties between both countries.
Rouhani additionally called for collective international cooperation to establish stability and Syrian sovereignty over their country's affairs.
As for Matvienko, she said that Tehran and Moscow share a common stance regarding the fight against terrorism.
Russia calls for the expansion of all-out cooperation with Iran particularly in the energy and nuclear fields, she added.
Matvienko arrived in Tehran on Sunday for multi-dimensional talks with senior Iranian officials, accompanied by the chairman of the Russian Federation Council's defense and security committee, Viktor Ozerov, and a number of parliamentary officials.
Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (L) shakes hands with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during their meeting in Ankara, capital of Turkey, on Nov. 14, 2016. (Xinhua/Turkish Presidential Office)
ANKARA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim here on Monday.
Erdogan said that Turkey attaches great importance to China-Turkey relations and is willing to maintain high-level exchanges to address issues concerning partnership through strategic cooperation.
"I'm pleased to see the consensus reached between Chinese President Xi Jinping and me in our previous meetings being effectively implemented," he said.
He also agreed to align China's Belt and Road Initiative with Turkey's "Middle Corridor" project, push ahead with major cooperation projects such as high speed railway construction and strengthen bilateral cooperation in fields such as tourism, culture and education.
The two countries need to deepen cooperation in security and anti-terrorism and support each other in efforts of safeguarding national sovereignty, security and stability, the president added.
In his meeting with Wang, Yildirim said that frequent high-level mutual visits have played a positive role in boosting bilateral relations between Turkey and China.
He expressed the hope that the two countries could bring their respective potential into full play through joint efforts to step up economic and trade cooperation and accelerate strategic alignment.
The prime minister also pointed out the importance of building high-speed railways as a new Silk Road to promote China-Turkey friendship in the new era.
For his part, Wang said the visit is intended to implement the important consensus reached between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Turkish President Recep Erdogan, launching the mechanism for consultation between the Chinese and Turkish foreign ministers.
The Chinese side attaches great importance to China-Turkey relations and is willing to keep high level dialogues and strategic communication, Wang added.
He also expressed the hope that the two countries could uphold the spirit of the ancient Silk Road and make joint efforts to build the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, in order to make new contributions to promoting national development, revitalizing Eurasia and advancing human civilization.
The two sides should also deepen cooperation in security and anti-terrorism and enhance mutual strategic trust to pave the way for all-round cooperation between the two countries, Wang said.
Wang arrived in Ankara on Sunday at the invitation of his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu.
China's vice Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin delivers a speech at a forum on South-South cooperation in countering climate change on the sidelines of a UN climate conference, in Marrakech, Morocco, on Nov. 14, 2016. China will continue strengthening its cooperation with other developing countries in addressing climate change, Liu Zhenmin said here Monday.(Zhao Dingzhe)
MARRAKECH, Morocco, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- China will continue strengthening its cooperation with other developing countries in addressing climate change, Liu Zhenmin, China's vice foreign minister, said here Monday.
China will incorporate its development with the common development of other developing countries and make joint efforts with them to find a low-carbon development path, said Liu in a speech concluding a forum on South-South cooperation in countering climate change.
The high-level forum, co-organized by China, Morocco and the United Nations, brought together ministers from 14 countries, senior officials from various UN bodies and representatives from civil society organizations. The day-long event took place on the sidelines of a UN climate conference opening in the southern Moroccan city a week ago.
Liu said that speakers at the forum made a common call for governments to work together against climate change in line with the principle of common but shared responsibility and achieve sustainable development.
As a developing country, China knows too well the difficulties and challenges developing countries are faced with, Liu said, adding that China has long been actively engaged in, and committed to the strengthening of, South-South cooperation.
China regards its cooperation with developing countries as the basis of its foreign policy and an important part of its opening-up in an all-round way, he added.
China launched the Belt and Road initiatives four years ago, with the aim of strengthening its connection and economic ties with other developing countries and create a community of common interests, Liu said.
Addressing climate change is a major area of South-South cooperation being carried out by China, he noted, adding that China will do everything it can to help other developing countries cope with climate change, while calling on developed countries to fulfill their obligations.
In 2015, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced the establishment of the 20 billion yuan China South-South Climate Cooperation Fund, which is aimed at providing a new platform for South-South cooperation, Liu said.
China has started to operate the fund this year, building low-carbon model parks, implementing climate-related projects and training personnel in other developing countries, he said.
Many speakers at the forum spoke highly of China's efforts to promote South-South cooperation in meeting the challenge of climate challenge.
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's special advisor on climate change, David Nabarro, said that China is playing a critical leadership role in pushing forward South-South cooperation in addressing climate change.
"I would like to again thank China for its leadership and the generous support it provided to advance South-South cooperation," he said.
A woman holds up a placard reads "Immigrants are welcome here" during a protest againstDonald Trump's presidential election victory near the Trump Tower on 5th Avenue in Manhattan of New York City, the United States, Nov. 13, 2016. (Xinhua/Li Muzi)
By Matthew Rusling
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President-elect Donald Trump' s stunning political upset has sparked protests in several major cities nationwide, and the demonstrations may continue for some time.
That's because Trump has elicited much controversy over the past year in one of the most controversial and nastiest presidential races.
While the New York mogul's supporters back him strongly, many others despise the man they view as overtly sexist, and who has referred to Mexicans as rapists and criminals. Many also view Trump as a loose cannon who easily flies off the handle, and fret that he may make rash, poorly-thought-out decisions based on emotions.
Recent days have seen thousands take to the streets in major U.S. cities to protest a president-elect who has grabbed headlines for his outrageous sexist comments and myriad other insults toward women.
The question remains whether the protests will continue, fade out, or even turn violent in the days and weeks to come.
"The protests against Trump will continue. Progressive forces are strongly opposed to Trump's agenda and will ferociously resist what he is doing. There is a risk that protests turn violent and exacerbate societal tensions," Brookings Institution Senior Fellow Darrell West told Xinhua.
Trump already has used Twitter to attack protesters and say they are unfair and incited by the media. "He is thin skinned and these protests will be very upsetting to him. He is likely to give local police resources to deal with these disruptions," West said.
Others, however, believe the protests will fizzle out in the coming days and weeks, although it remains to be seen whether more demonstrations will follow once Trump assumes office.
"I believe the protests will die down over the next week or two," Dan Lee, an assistant professor at the University of Nevada in Las Vegas, told Xinhua.
"But the next question is what sorts of protests will happen after he actually enters office. That is, what protests will there be against specific bills once they are proposed and then make it to the floor in Congress? Then what protests might happen after specific bills are passed and signed into law?" Lee said.
Trump is a candidate who is loved by his supporters and hated by his detractors. While a shocking 53 percent of white women voters cast their ballots for the billionaire, many other women are staunchly anti-Trump.
Indeed, the president-elect has over the past year made crass comments against several women, including former Republican contender Carly Fiorina, making disparaging remarks about the former HP CEO's face. "Look at that face!" he said during the primaries, suggesting she was unattractive.
Recent weeks saw Trump get embroiled in a social media war with a former Miss Universe, calling the former beauty pageant winner "Miss Piggy," remarking that she had put on weight in recent years.
Trump in recent weeks also caused a media firestorm after the release of tapes, several years old, that showed him making overtly sexist remarks on a radio show and backstage on a separate television show.
MOSUL, Iraq, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Iraqi security forces on Monday killed at least 57 militants of the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group in and near the city of Mosul, as fierce battles continued in the city to drive out the IS militants from their last major stronghold in Iraq.
The commandos of the Counter-Terrorism Service (CTS) repelled several attacks by IS suicide bombers on the troops' positions in the freed districts in eastern Mosul, including al-Qadsiyah and Zahraa, according to the CTS deputy commander Lieutenant General Abdul-Wahab al-Saadi.
The troops fought fierce clashes with the attackers and managed to kill 26 suicide bombers, Saadi told reporters.
The security forces have been fighting to go deeper into the eastern side of the city, locally known as left bank of the Tigris River, but the troops were slowed by stubborn resistance of the extremist militants who are fighting in small groups of well-trained fighters with snipers, suicide bomb attacks and many landmines, in addition to the heavy presence of civilians in their homes in Mosul districts.
Saadi also said that the CTS commandos will storm the Baker district in the coming hours, while heavy clashes are underway in several other districts.
Separately, the troops of the army's 16th Division and allied Sunni tribal fighters killed 31 IS militants and destroyed two booby-trapped cars when they stormed IS positions in area located some five kilometers in north of Mosul, according to the commander of the security forces in north of Mosul, Lieutenant General Ali al-Freiji.
In south of Mosul, the armored 9th Division freed the village of al-Naiyfa, just west of the town of Nimrud and its nearby archeological site, some 30 km south of Mosul, which the troops liberated them on Sunday, said Lieutenant General Abdul-Amir Yarallah from the Joint Operations Command.
In west of Mosul, the Shiite Hashd Shaabi paramilitary units continued their advance in the vast rugged land in west of Mosul toward the town of Tal-Afar, some 70 km west of Mosul, and managed to recaptured four villages after clashes with the IS militants, Yarallah said in a press release.
Tal Afar, which used to have majority of both Sunni and Shiite Turkoman villagers, as well as other minorities of Kurds and Arabs, fell to IS in 2014.
The advance of the pre-dominantly Shiite paramilitary units was aimed to cut off the supply lines between Mosul and neighboring Syria, but such advance in the ethnically mixed region where Sunni Muslims form a majority, could spark sectarian tension with Sunni Arabs and neighboring Sunni state of Turkey.
The battles in and around Mosul is part of a major offensive announced by Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi on Oct. 17 to retake Mosul, the country's second largest city.
Since then, the Iraqi security forces have inched to the eastern fringes of Mosul and made progress on other routes around the city.
Early in the month, hundreds of the CTS commandos and Iraqi army made a significant progress from three directions at the eastern side of Mosul and managed to recapture some 10 districts, so far, out of about 60 districts on both sides of the city.
Mosul, some 400 km north of Iraqi capital of Baghdad, has been under IS control since June 2014, when Iraqi government forces abandoned their weapons and fled, enabling IS militants to take control of parts of Iraq's northern and western regions.
Belgian soldiers patrol outside the European Union headquarters in Brussels, capital of Belgium, on Jan. 19, 2015. (Xinhua/Zhou Lei)
BRUSSELS, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Europe must be prepared to cope with a "wave of jihadists" returning from Syria, as situations keep escalating in the regions controlled by the Islamic State (IS), warned Belgian interior minister Jan Jambon.
"We can see that IS is under pressure in (the Syrian cities of) Raqqa and Mosul, Belgian jihadist fighters will either stay there to help the IS defence, or they will be sent back (to Europe)," Jambon told an interview with broadcaster RTBF aired on Sunday.
Jambon revealed that among all the Belgian nationals who left to join the IS in Syria, 117 had returned, adding that half of these people are now in prison, and the other half under surveillance.
Moreover, Jambon warned that Europe as a whole is facing a more severe threat, saying "Apart from the 200 Belgians, 3,000 to 5,000 European citizens are over there."
Nonetheless, the minister believes that Belgium is safer than before the terror attacks in Paris last November and the bombings in Brussels in March, as a result of tight security measures. Both attacks were plotted in Brussels.
"All the intelligence services are keeping an eye on the situation and exchange information," he said. "If this wave does arrive, we must be ready."
Photo taken by the author shows a cable car crossing the Yangtze River in Chongqing Municipality, southwest China, on Nov. 3, 2016. (Photo provided by the author)
BEIJING, Nov. 14(Xinhuanet) -- Despite the ticket price hike, riding a cable car crossing the mighty Yangtze River in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality remains a significant part of local culture.
The ticket price of a Yangtze River cable car riding has now risen to 20 yuan from 10 yuan charged just before the National Day holiday in October.
However, the number of riders keeps going up to hit a record of 18,000 in a single day last month.
According to the local residents, from six o'clock in the morning, riders speaking dialects of Beijing, Guangdong, and other places would queue up for over two hundred meters to buy the tickets.
For one thing, it is a unique way to see the gorgeous scenery on the two sides of the river in daytime, and the night view of illuminating neon and twinkling stars.
Besides, riders could also feel the imposing rush and hear the thunderous roar of the Yangtze River from high above in the cable car.
For another, unforgettable scenes in the famous Chinese movies like Crazy Stone, Chongqing Blues and Door were shot here, which further give food for their imagination.
The cable car was put into service in 1987, as a primary commuting tool for locals, taking them four to five minutes to cross the river.
Nicknamed "airbus" of the city, the cable car is China's first large cross-river passenger cableway.
Thanks to solid safety checks and maintenance, there has never been an accident over its nearly thirty years' operation.
According to the cable car company, in the first half of this year, the number of riders exceeded 1.5 million, and the number is expected to surpass 2.5 million for the whole year.
A Chinese tourist trapped in the worst-hit town of Kaikoura receives interview of Xinhua News Agency, in Kaikoura, New Zealand, Nov. 14, 2016. The first batch of six Chinese tourists has been airlifted from the worst-hit town of Kaikoura to Christchurch after a deadly quake rocked much of New Zealand early Monday. A 7.5-magnitude quake hit just after midnight Monday, leaving at least two dead. (Xinhua/Su Liang)
Five more cops fingered in $.4M robbery
A Special Reserve Officer (SRP), who is said to be a Tobagonian and assigned to the San Juan Sub Station, was detained hours after the robbery and is assisting investigators with their inquries.
Sources revealed that the SRP was transferred to the San Juan Sub Station recently.
On Friday, three armed men went to the home of Wei Hui Zhu, 31, at Soledad Road, Claxton Bay, in a marked police vehicle, wearing police tactcal uniform. Three others later arrived in a black Sport Utility Vehicle, telling the businessman they had instructions to search his home.
The men found and took $400,000 as well as two iPhones.
Officers who raided the SRPs home on Friday night recovered a high powered weapon, along with a quantity of cash.
Initially the SRP refused to cooperate with the police, but early Saturday he began confessing which led to five other officers being called in for questioning.
Sources revelead that camera footage obtained from the premises of the victim has proven to be very useful to investigators.
Sources also revealed that an iPhone stolen fronm the Chinese businessman was traced and found at the home of one of the five suspects.
Investigators are expected to approach the Director of Public Prosecutions today for instructions.
TERRIBLE TIMES'
Pastor Michael Phillips, who led the congregation as they raised their voices in praise, quoting scripture after scripture, told mourners that although Francis death was a testament of a dark time in our nation, better days are coming. There will be terrible times in the last days! Phillips quoted from the bible, People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God... but in spite of everything, better days are coming, he said.
He reminded the crowd that Felicias death was a sign of these times, but reminded them of Gods promise of eternal life.
Francis was described by most at the service as a well put together woman, who was straightforward, and strong willed, but was also loving, industrious, caring and kind-hearted. Representatives from the Community Hospital, where she worked most of her professional career, and from the Womens Ministry, Department of her Church, the South East Port-of- Spain Seventh Day Adventist Church took turns praising Francis for her contributions to the lives of the people around her.
On November 4, after attending an hour long service at her place of worship, Dyer Francis was shot dead by a unknown gunman. She was shot in her head and shoulders while sitting in her vehicle outside her church.
Reports indicate that she was killed as a warning to one of her children, who is a police officer.
Francis murder on November 4 was the 388th recorded murder for the year. Since then, the toll has shot up to 405. Voicing a serious concern for the rate of murders being committed in this country, Minister of National Security Edmond Dillon yesterday appealed to the nation to cease the unabating violence that has been destroying this nation. The minster said he was made aware of several news reports where neighbours were killing neighbours, brothers were killing brothers and friends were killing friends. He pleaded with the nation to look out for our fellow man.
We have to be our brothers keeper, said Dillon in a phone conversation with the Newsday.
He said that some instances of murder, for example gang violence could be deterred through utilising strategies which include detection, deterrence, prosecution and intelligence, but there are other instances of murder that police are less able to predict - like a friend killing a friend in an altercation.
Every murder is of a serious concern to the Ministry of National Security, and should be a concern to all of Trinidad and Tobago Said Dillon, Through recent meetings with the Acting Commissioner of Police, and commanders of the Northern and Central Division, we are setting the ground work to implement new strategies to tackle the rate of murders in the nation. We are looking for new ways to capitalize all our resources. We will be utilizing deterrence methods, by way of a higher police presence, and we will be looking for even better intelligence gathering methods. Newsday was told that up to October this year the detection rate for crimes in the country was at a ballpark figure of 17 percent.
Man killed by AirGuard
According to preliminary reports, Sylvan DeFour, of the Trinidad and Tobago Air Guard, was in an Air Guard vehicle, heading East-bound on the Churchill Roosevelt Highway near Maloney when an unidentified man crossed the highway.
The man was struck by the vehicle.
He died at the scene.
A statement from the TTAG said, DeFour was returning to station from official duty at about 11.30 pm in an official vehicle with five occupants when it collided with the man.
Reports indicate that the pedestrian ran across the highway into oncoming traffic, the statement said.
The TTAG said it was working with the TT Police Service in its inquiries.
In a separate incident, a man was driving in Pasea on Saturday night and lost control of his vehicle, hitting a lamp post.
He was taken to hospital for emergency treatment.
Sandals Resort a gold mine for Tobago, says Stewart
He was speaking on Saturday at the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Commerce Champions of Business Award Ceremony held at the Hyatt Regency, Port-of-Spain. Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley had approached Sandals founder and chairman Gordon Butch Stewart about establishing a Sandals Resort in Tobago.
The elder Stewart reported that he is eyeing No Mans Land for a 750 room resort.
On Saturday night Stewart reported that his father, was unable to attend as he was recovering from minor surgery.
In his feature address he said that this country has been relying on the certainty of the oil.
Like I am sure many of you, I have been shocked to read about the impact plummeting oil prices have had on the sectors contribution to Trinidad and Tobagos GDP, a 50 percent reduction and if that were not startling enough, with production down and only the most highly skilled workers necessary, it seems as there will be people, good people looking for work, he added.
Now, oil is not where my business expertise lies, but I do believe Prime Minister Rowley may be onto something because everything I do know something about hospitality, is telling me that Trinidad and Tobago is a gold mine just waiting to be discovered.
As you consider new paths to economic growth, I believe now is the time for Trinidad and Tobago to make way for tourism, Sandals style. He explained that Sandals style means as a Caribbean-based company, understanding this region, and knowing the critical role of tourism as an economic engine across all sectors and the responsibility we accept for the success of any endeavor we pursue.
Stewart also stressed that without destination demand Trinidad will not be able to encourage airlift but where Sandals plants it flag - the airlines follow. He pointed that these planes will deliver guests to other hotels as well.
And we never work in a silo. Sandals Resorts become part and parcel of the place where we operate. Our success trickles down and up and sideways and all ways... Whenever and as much as we can, we buy local.
In Jamaica, for example, a country like your own with a strong agricultural sector Sandals Resorts purchased US $1.5 million in melons, lettuce, pineapples and potatoes last year alone... We provide local farmers with consistent demand, creating a robust market for their produce that simply would not exist without full hotel rooms, he explained.
He reported that their guests consume in one year at a single resort of 750 rooms, about the size were proposing here in Trinidad and Tobago, nearly: 350,000 bottles of water; 215,000 bottles of beer; 925,000 eggs.
Altogether, the economic foot print of a resort the size we propose for Tobago, when you take into account payroll, taxes, local services and more, would be in the region of US$80 million annually. In the construction phase alone we anticipate to employ between 2500 to 3000 persons. Beyond that there will be some 1800 sustainable jobs for persons employed by the resort itself, he reported.
He continued: Trinidad and Tobago is on the brink of a great opportunity, a break- through in its quest to become a vibrant and relevant member of the Caribbean tourism community. I applaud Prime Minister Rowleys efforts to realise Trinidad and Tobagos potential and appreciate his thoughtful approach in considering the sizeable investment this will require. After all, so much is on the line.
Last known indentured labourer dies at 105
Historian and genealogist Shamshu Deen yesterday reported that jahajin (one who came on the boat from India) Samundarie died on Saturday night at the San Fernando General Hospital, where she was being treated after she fell ill at her home in St Charles Village, Princes Town.
She died of pneumonia and heart failure.
Her grand-daughter Lola Joseph, 65, took care of her during her last days.
I miss hearing her voice, she said.
She said her grandmother was a strong and independent woman. Samundaries grandson Raymond Joseph, 62, said she worked extremely hard during her life. She never stayed home from the estate nor did she stayed away from her vending job, he said. Deen said his research shows that Samundarie came here in 1912.
The historic passing of the last indentured survivor jahajin has truly a tremendous impact. Deen said. He noted that this represents the last chapter of a book of 147,592 pages of Indian ancestors to Trinidad and perhaps in the whole diaspora. Samundarie arrived in Trinidad aboard the SS Mutlah of 1912 as a baby with her mother Makhani.
She worked hard to raise her children after being a widow in her 30s. She had two daughters and a son.
They produced 10 grand-children and 16 great-grand. She was a cane cutter in Caroni and when she retired she started selling market produce at the San Fernando market.
She later became a vendor at the Jordan Hill Presbyterian school.
Her funeral is expected to take place later this week.
Kamla predicts: 0,0,0 seats for PNM, IPL
Political Leader of the United National Congress (UNC) Kamla Persad-Bissessar made the prediction yesterday during a campaign motorcade in the Chaguanas region, where she urged supporters to translate their support into votes.
In the borough of Chaguanas is zero, zero, zero seats for the PMN.
No seats for the PNM.
Tell the PNM and ILP, it is zero, zero, zero seats from the Borough, Opposition Leader Persad- Bissessar said while addressing supporters at Pepper Sauce Village Junction, Endeavor.
Referring to a newspaper report that the murder toll was 400 for this year, the Opposition Leader charged that the real figure is over 438 murders in this year alone.
Crimes are not only in the hotspots areas but nowhere are you safe in any community, in any village. The bandits are everywhere. It is like since the PNM came into power , the criminals feel they have open free season for all. We must tell the PNM that enough is enough, she said.
In addition to the spiraling crime under ( Dr Keith) Rowley there continues to be an increase in the unemployment figures, Persad-Bissessar noted.
She added: When we came into office, we had bills to pay . We came into the end of a recession, but we were able to stabilise our country and our economy . When we were there we were able to create over 57,00 new jobs. The campaign tour commenced at Price Plaza and ended at Jubilee Recreation Ground.
A PNM win a gift to Fyzabad
I pledge to displace the UNC in Fyzabad and this will be my gift to you, he said as he addressed a meeting of the PNM at Charlie King Junction on Saturday.
He also said he would continue the highway from Bamboo Junction to St Marys Junction in 2017, as well as the Point Fortin Highway.
The PNMs Mon Desir candidate Eileen Applwhite Steel said she will ensure that residents receive better roads, better drainage and better recreational facilities.
MP for Point Fortin and Minister of Trade Paula Gopee-Scoon called on the women to go out and vote. She said the previous government spent millions and had little to show for it in Fyzabad.
2 killed following powerful tremor in New Zealand
United Kingdom,Crime/Disaster/Accident,Environment/Wildlife, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
Wellington, Nov 14 (IANS) At least two people were killed on Monday after a series of powerful earthquakes jolted New Zealand's South Island, triggering a tsunami and sending aftershocks across the country, officials said.
The first, a 7.8-magnitude quake, struck just after midnight on Monday near the coastal community of Kaikoura, some 93 km northeast of the city of Christchurch, the US Geological Survey reported.
It triggered waves of 8 feet above usual tide levels, the highest New Zealand had seen in at least 38 years, Philip Duncan of Weather Watch New Zealand said.
An initial tsunami warning was lifted but temblors continued on Monday afternoon, CNN reported.
A 6.2-magnitude quake struck around 1.30 p.m., km west-southwest of Kaikoura, further north of Christchurch.
Aftershocks from South Island reverberated all the way to Wellington, the country's capital on the North Island, where residents were told to stay indoors Monday.
Images on social media showed shattered windows, toppled grocery items on the floor of a supermarket and water sloshing back and forth in swimming pools from different parts of the country.
Prime Minister John Key called off talks in Buenos Aires, Argentina scheduled for Tuesday following the quakes, Xinhua news agency reported.
"The situation is still unfolding and we don't yet know the full extent of the damage," Key said in a statement.
The South Island was hit by a flurry of aftershocks, according to the USGS and New Zealand's Geonet service, some with a magnitude above 6.0.
Officials from the island's second-largest town, Dunedin, has issued a state of emergency.
New Zealanders are used to earthquakes. The country lies on the Ring of Fire, the line of frequent quakes and volcanic eruptions that circles virtually the entire Pacific rim, the BBC reported.
Christchurch is still recovering from a 2011 earthquake that killed 185 people and destroyed the city centre.
--IANS
ksk
Saudi Arabia bans schools from marking non-Islamic holidays
Saudi Arabia,Religion,Education, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
Riyadh, Nov 14 (IANS) Saudi Arabia has warned international schools from marking non-Islamic occasions such as Christmas and New Year.
The ban includes forbidding the schools from providing holidays on such occasions or changing the dates of exams to suit them, Xinhua news agency reported.
The education ministry directed all schools to stick to the academic calendars for exams and holidays. It warned of action against schools that violate the directive.
Saudi Arabia is a Sunni-conservative state that follows Islamic rules in all walks of life.
--IANS
ksk/mr
Obama urged to revoke executive order against Venezuela
Venezuela,Politics,Diplomacy, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
Caracas, Nov 14 (IANS) Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has urged his US counterpart Barack Obama to revoke an executive order that labelled his country a security threat.
"It is an atrocity that I hope Obama corrects before he leaves office," Maduro said on Sunday, reiterating his government's willingness to improve diplomatic ties with the US.
In a message directly addressing the US head of state, Maduro said "in spite of the arrogance, aggression and negative legacy, you, President Barack Obama, can garner the admiration and respect of Venezuela, if you have the courage to sign a decree revoking that infamous executive order that claims our beloved country is a threat," Xinhua news agency reported.
The South American nation will also formally request the White House revoke the decree during an upcoming meeting with US Secretary of State John Kerry, so Obama "can leave with a message of peace for Venezuela", said Maduro.
While ties between the two countries have been sour since Venezuela's socialist party first came to power some 15 years ago, the 2015 decree calling the South American country "an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the US", marked a particular low point.
A day after the US presidential election on November 8, Maduro spoke with Kerry to request the two countries establish a "positive agenda" with which to work when the administration of President-elect Donald Trump takes over in January 2017.
--IANS
ksk
Ancient Iraqi city recaptured from IS
Iraq,Defence/Security,Terrorism,Human Interest/Society, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
Baghdad, Nov 14 (IANS) Iraqi forces recaptured the ancient village of Nimrud and the site of the ruins as part of the ongoing battle for Mosul, the Islamic State (IS) terror group's last major stronghold in the war-torn country.
The recapture took place on Sunday, according to Colonel Mohammed Ibrahim, a spokesman for Iraq's Joint operations command.
While the village was now under control by Iraqi forces, clashes were still underway to retake the town, less than a mile west of the ruins, Ibrahim told CNN.
Nimrud is 30 km southeast of Mosul.
Archeologists first began excavating the Assyrian city of Nimrud -- built nearly 3,000 years ago -- in the 1840s.
In the decades that followed, they unearthed priceless treasures from the city, including palaces adorned with unique frescoes and giant sculptures.
Last year, the IS blew up the ancient walled city.
Unesco described the deliberate destruction of Nimrud as a "war crime".
Nimrud flourished between 900 B.C. and 612 B.C. Buildings there "have yielded thousands of carved ivories, mostly made in the 9th and 8th centuries B.C., now one of the richest collections of ivory in the world," according to Encyclopedia Britannica's website.
The famous British mystery novelist Agatha Christie accompanied her husband, archaeologist Max Mallowan, at his excavation in Nimrud and helped clean some of the ivories.
The Iraqi and Kurdish troop offensive to liberate Mosul began on October 17 with a three-pronged offensive along the north, south and eastern fronts, which has enabled the liberation of various eastern Mosul neighbourhoods.
--IANS
ksk
Indian national killed in Nepal cross-fire
Nepal,Indo-Pak/Pakistan,Crime/Disaster/Accident, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
Kathmandu, Nov 14 (IANS) An Indian national was killed on Monday during a cross-fire between the police and an armed group in Nepal's Rautahat district.
Along with the victim, Tejhilala Shah, 44, of Bihar's East Champaran district, one Nepali policeman also received serious injuries, sources said.
Acting on a tip-off that a huge cache of arms was being smuggled into the district via the Lalbakaiya River embankment from India, a joint security squad reached the site.
But the gang comprising three to four individuals opened fire at the police team. The security personnel fired in retaliation and the exchange of firing continued for a short while.
One rifle, a home-made pistol and some bullets were recovered, the police added.
--IANS
giri/ksk/dg
Review demonetisation, act against black money hoarders: CPI
Delhi,National,Politics,Business/Economy, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
New Delhi, Nov 14 (IANS) The CPI on Monday demanded an immediate review of the demonetisation of high denomination currency and instead sought action against hoarders of black money.
"If the government is really sincere in curbing a parallel economy based on black money, it should take people into confidence about the WikiLeaks list of Indians holding accounts in foreign banks, the list of those with investment in foreign countries leaked in the Panama leak papers," said a statement by the Communist Party of India.
"The government should take urgent action against such holders of black money," it said.
The party said the new Rs 2,000 notes were causing more difficulty to the people due to shortage of notes of lesser value.
The CPI demanded banks to act against corporate defaulters and publicise the names of those who had made "huge deposits" prior to the announcement of the November 8 demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes.
"There are reports that a large number of people, including leaders of political parties, have deposited crores and crores of rupees in banks in the last month as they were aware (beforehand) of the demonetisation move. Banks should release the list of such depositors at all levels."
--IANS
and/tsb/mr
Banks warn staff over unauthorised exchange of notes
Delhi,National,Business/Economy, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
New Delhi, Nov 14 (IANS) Banks have issued alerts to their employees, warning them of serious action over unauthorised transactions following demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes in India.
According to a senior public sector bank officer, complaints were received that some bankers were indulging in unfair means like not maintaining records of customers who come to deposit or exchange the phased-out currency notes.
Allegations were also made that some bank employees were entertaining people known to them and issuing them lower denomination currency notes many times over the limit without bothering to keep records.
This is in violation of the government instructions that banks can exchange cash up to Rs 4,000 per person once till November 24.
The central government demonetised Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes effective November 8 midnight leading to a sharp demand for smaller currency notes. Banks and ATMs saw huge queues of people trying to exchange or withdraw money across the country, with most coming back empty-handed.
The government has placed restrictions on the amount that an individual can exchange or withdraw from the banks.
Employees of the public sector banks on Monday received instructions from higher ups that they need to enter the data of their customers in the banking software.
"Further, it was made very clear that the exchange of cash has to be recorded in CCTV and this footage has to be shared with RBI. It was also informed that any non-compliance would be dealt by RBI and (the) bank very seriously," read the note sent to the bank branches.
Some of the head offices of banks warned against this "dangerous" trend stating that serious action would be taken against the staff if they indulged in such activities.
"All the branches are instructed to sensitise their staff and desist from such practices. They should understand that they are diluting the government of India guidelines which attracts serious punishment," said the note sent by bank head offices to their branches.
Many other banks have also asked their branch offices to keep a strict vigil and maintain proper records of all the customers who exchange or deposit the now-spiked currency.
--IANS
na/sar/hs/dg
Did banks ignore RBI order on Rs 100-ATMs before demonetisation?
Delhi,National,Business/Economy, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
New Delhi, Nov 14 (IANS) In anticipation of the huge demand for lower currency notes, ahead of the demonetisation move, the Reserve Bank of India had asked banks to set up Automated Teller Machines which dispensed only Rs 100 notes.
On November 2, six days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in a television address to the nation that Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 denomination notes would become illegal from midnight of November 8, the RBI had asked banks to recalibrate 10 per cent of its ATMs to exclusively dispense Rs 100 notes.
How many banks complied with this directive is not known.
However, the long queues at ATMs and the resultant chaos all across the country would imply that the directive may have been ignored.
In its circular DCM(CC)No 1170/03.41.01/2016-17 issued on November 2, the apex bank said that "in keeping with the objectives of Clean Note Policy and to ensure that genuine requirement of members of public for Rs 100 denomination bank notes are met, the banks should increase dispensation of Rs 100 bank notes through ATMs."
Stating that as a pilot project, 10 per cent of the ATMs in the country would be recalibrated, the RBI said that "as the process involved in configuring the requisite number of machines is not complex, the banks are required to complete the exercise within 15 days" and report compliance.
The RBI had also moved as early as May this year to provide incentive for setting up ATMs which dispensed only Rs 100 notes. In a circular on May 5, The central bank promised to pay 50 per cent of the cost of such ATMs up to Rs 2 lakh.
--IANS
hs/bg
Andhra professor accused of abetting medico's suicide held
Andhra Pradesh,National,Crime/Disaster/Accident, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
Vijayawada, Nov 14 (IANS) A professor of Guntur Medical College accused of abetting the suicide of a post-graduate medical student was arrested in Bengaluru on Monday, police said in Guntur.
The professor, A.V.V. Lakshmi, is likely to be brought to Guntur later on Monday or Tuesday.
She was absconding following the suicide of B. Sandhya Rani in October.
Sandhya Rani (27), belonging to Nalgonda district of Telangana and a post-graduate student of the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, committed suicide by injecting in herself an overdose of anaesthesia. She died on October 24 while undergoing treatment at Guntur Government Hospital.
During investigation, police found Sandhya's diary in which she wrote that she is ending her life as she is unable to bear the harassment by Lakshmi.
Sandhya's classmates at the medical college had staged a protest demanding the immediate arrest and suspension of the Professor.
An inquiry committee of the college had found Lakshmi guilty of harassing the student.
However, Andhra Pradesh Police faced allegations from the victim's family that it is not doing enough to bring Lakshmi to book.
Denying the allegation, the police had formed special teams to track down the absconding Professor.
Lakshmi through her relatives had also moved a court in Guntur for anticipatory bail but the court refused her plea.
Following, Sandhya Rani's death her husband Ravi had also attempted suicide in Miryalaguda town of Telangana. Ravi, also a physician, tried to hang himself at his residence but was saved by his brother.
The couple had married a year ago. Sandhya was allegedly denied leave and burdened with additional work by the Professor.
--IANS
ms/lok/dg
Bengal government announces exemption of agricultural tax for 3 days
West Bengal,National,Politics,Business/Economy, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
Kolkata, Nov 14 (IANS) The West Bengal government has decided not to impose agricultural tax for the next three days on the trucks coming from other states as they were facing an acute cash shortage, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced on Monday.
Truck owners said over 40 per cent of their vehicles have stopped plying following the demonetisation of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes.
"Bengal government has decided not to impose any agricultural tax on movement of trucks for next three days," Banerjee said.
Banerjee said thousands of trucks carrying perishable vegetables and other essential products are stuck all over the country for the last three days.
"Thousands of trucks all over the country carrying essential goods and perishables facing huge cash shortage. This issue will become even more serious over next few days and push essential prices up beyond control. Quick action needed," Banerjee twitted.
She said the tax exemption was given to help resume the flow of essential products.
"To save farmers and commoners, perishable vegetables should not be allowed to spoil," the Chief Minister said.
The All India Motor Transport Association Chief Kultaran Singh said post demonetisation, over 40 per cent of their trucks have gone off the roads.
"Though the central government has exempted the toll tax on national highways till November 18, the truck owners are facing several issues due to the lack of cash flow. Paying the drivers, buying fuel and maintenance is not possible unless government allows to withdraw more cash," Singh said.
--IANS
mgr/ssp/lok/bg
Manipur battles cash shortage, blockade
Manipur,National,Politics,Business/Economy, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
Imphal, Nov 14 (IANS) People in Manipur are battling a twin crisis: an ongoing "economic blockade" and a crippling shortages of cash.
So severe is the problem of currency that shopkeepers across the state are freely accepting the spiked Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes. But no balance is returned as smaller denomination notes have virtually disappeared.
Many are blaming the Reserve Bank of India for not airlifting the new 500 and 2,000 rupee notes to the state on time.
Besides, ATMs in the state are yet to serve the customers properly. Also, only small amounts can be drawn by cheques.
The situation has further worsened on account of the ongoing fortnight-old economic blockade imposed by the United Naga Council, which has sent commodity prices soaring.
The crisis has spelt a windfall for those making a quick buck through illegal money exchange trade.
One can get any amount of Rs 100 and lesser denomination notes on payment of 20 per cent as "interest".
And since people are hard-pressed for liquidity, the illegal money trade is thriving.
Meghajit Laithangbam, who works in a private company, said: "Since it is impossible to draw money from the banks, we are paying 20 per cent to get the required amount for our daily needs."
Departmental stores, village shops, meat and fish sellers and other traders are freely accepting the demonetised currencies but with a rider that the entire money should be spent since there is no change to be returned.
In fact, no shop returns any change even if a customer pays Rs 100 or smaller denomination notes.
Chief Secretary Oinam Nabakishore said: "On our request, the RBI had despatched Rs 107 crore in new currencies. Now we have requested for Rs 304 crore more."
Official sources told IANS that the central government had invited the United Naga Council for talks to hammer out a solution to the economic blockade as Manipur is now short of most essential items.
Because of the blockade, potato is sold in some shops for Rs 80 a kg, each egg costs Rs 15 and petrol is selling at Rs 300 a litre. Life saving medicines are not available.
--IANS
il/nir/mr/sar
Modi greets nation on Gurpurab
Delhi,National,Politics,Religion, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
New Delhi, Nov 14 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday greeted the nation on the occasion of Gurpurab and urged the people to draw inspiration from the teachings of Guru Nanak.
"Gurupurab wishes to everyone. The inspiring teachings of the venerable Guru Nanak guide us in creating a prosperous and harmonious society," Modi tweeted.
Gurpurab or Guru Nanak Jayanti or Prakash Utsav is the sacred festival of the Sikh community.
Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, was born in Talwandi near Lahore (now Nankana Sahib), Pakistan, on April 15, 1469.
However, his birthday is celebrated during the Hindi month of Kartik in autumn.
--IANS
aks/in
Dell EMC unveils new IT products and solutions
Delhi,Business/Economy,Technology, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
New Delhi, Nov 14 (IANS) To help customers scale technology availability with IT demand, Dell EMC on Monday announced a range of products, solutions and consumption models that address cloud, big data analytics, converged infrastructure, storage, data protection and security.
"Today's organisations must embark on a digital transformation. To truly realise their digital future, we believe the vast majority of organisations will transform their IT through a hybrid cloud strategy," David Goulden, president, Infrastructure Solutions Group, Dell EMC, said in a statement.
Dell EMC announced the expansion of its leading converged infrastructure portfolio through integration with PowerEdge servers into VxRail Appliances and VxRack System 1000 hyper-converged infrastructure (HCI).
The company also announced the new Analytic Insights Module delivering all of the software, hardware and services necessary to stand up an environment for both big data analytics and cloud native application development in days rather than weeks.
Dell unveiled its Endpoint Data Security and Management portfolio encompassing technologies from Dell, Mozy by Dell, RSA and VMware AirWatch, offering data protection, backup and recovery, identity assurance, threat prevention and advanced response, and endpoint device and application management capabilities.
The company rolled out updates to the Dell EMC Elastic Cloud Storage (ECS) platform, with new support for Dell EMC PowerEdge Servers.
--IANS
sku/na/dg
Ahead of demonetisation, banks asked to install additional CCTVs
Tamil Nadu,Business/Economy, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
Chennai, Nov 14 (IANS) When a nationalised bank's manager read an official circular on November 7 regarding beefing up the closed-circuit television network or even hiring a videographer to capture the scene near its cash counters, he had no inkling of what was in store the next day.
"We initially thought the instructions were for increasing security. We asked an agency to urgently install two more CCTVs. We realised the actual import of the instruction only when Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the demonetisation of 500 and 1,000 rupee notes," the bank manager told IANS on condition of anonymity.
"Today, every person who enters a bank and the amount he deposits are captured on a camera. Further, we enter the details in the banking system. There is also documentary evidence," he added.
"If the government wants, it can now track a person. So, if people think they can exchange Rs 500 or Rs 1,000 notes on behalf of somebody else without detection, they are totally wrong," he said.
The official said he had heard people talking of offers of Rs 400 commission to anyone who exchanged invalid notes totalling Rs 4,000.
"If the government wants to track them or check bank accounts that suddenly became active, it can do so. We also send daily reports to higher authorities on the amount of cash exchanged," he said.
Meanwhile, banks in Tamil Nadu were open as usual as the state didn't declare a holiday on Gurpurab, which marks the birth anniversary of first Sikh master, Guru Nanak Dev.
However, many automated teller machines dried up soon after they were filled.
But bank branches continued to exchange Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes with new Rs 2,000 or old Rs 100 notes.
Queried about other banking operations, the official said everybody was running after cash for the last two days.
"Today (Monday), it is a holiday in Mumbai and so major markets are closed. The problem may crop up tomorrow (Tuesday). But, tomorrow is another day," he quipped.
--IANS
vj/tsb/bg
We'll touch Rs 100 cr-mark in Indian mobile accessories market by 2017: Intex
Delhi,National,Technology,Business/Economy, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
New Delhi, Nov 14 (IANS) The Indian mobile accessories market is set to explode owing to the exponential smartphone sales growth and domestic phone maker Intex aims to touch the Rs 100 crore mark in this segment by March 2017 while gearing up to play a key role in the batteries segment, a top company executive has said.
The global mobile phone accessories market is expected to reach $107.3 billion by 2022, according to alliedmarketresearch.com. The major factor that boosts market growth is the increase in adoption of smartphones in urban as well as rural areas.
Industry experts peg the Indian mobile accessories segment at $1 billion, which is set to grow 20-25 per cent year-on-year.
Intex entered the mobile accessories vertical in 2011 and, since then, has been growing rapidly by developing and designing products ranging from batteries, chargers, hands-free devices, cables and power banks, among others.
"Battery is the backbone of the mobile phone industry and since day one, our focus was on battery. Our major share -- almost 50-55 per cent -- comes from batteries," Manish Gupta, Deputy General Manager, Mobile Accessories, at Intex Technologies (India), told IANS.
Intex also sells batteries for other Indian brands like Micromax, Lava and Karbonn and even for Nokia, Samsung and some Chinese brands.
"Every month, we sell half-a-million batteries for the mobile accessories business in the general trade market. We have a capacity of more than that and, gradually, we are increasing the capacity. We are also planning to make power banks in-house," Gupta noted.
The company reported Rs 670 million in revenue in the financial year 2015-16 -- up from an average growth rate of 90 per cent year-on-year. The significant accessories sale is via batteries and chargers -- 70 per cent of the business value originates in this category.
Intex's growth came from new products, including power banks and accessories such as USB cables, Gupta said, adding that for the mobile accessory as a whole division, the revenue sat at 25 per cent with standard growth rate of 20-25 per cent.
"Northern region is a major contributor to our business. Almost 50 per cent of business comes from the northern region. Southern region will be major focus for us in the next financial year," Gupta told IANS.
Intex is also aiming to launch a separate a smartphone accessory section wherein they already have one product -- MFI cable for iPhones. The company has taken a licence from the Cupertino, San Francisco-based Apple to launch the cable which is available online as well as in retail stores.
According to Gupta, power banks is another big growth area. In the last financial year, Intex sold 130,000 power banks and have already sold 750,000 power banks this year.
"Diwali was excellent for us. At 'Flipkart Big Billion Day', we sold 100,000 power banks. With 'Snapdeal Unbox', we sold 25,000 power banks and in general trade, we sold 15,000-16,000 power banks," Gupta said.
"That is almost 34 per cent share in the power banks segment we garnered this festive season. We were number one in the 'Flipkart Big Billion Day'," Gupta added.
The company sold 400,000 units of power banks in the months of September and October alone. The sale of power banks has gone up by more than 100 per cent as compared to the same time last year.
"There are almost 1,000 channel partners with us for accessories business pan-India," the executive said.
The company will soon launch another innovative product -- "power inverter" -- that can charge laptops and two devices simultaneously. The product will be available in the market before March 2017.
(Anuj Sharma can be contacted at anuj.s@ians.in)
--IANS
anuj/na/vm/sac
President, Vice President pay tributes to Nehru
Delhi,National,Politics, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
New Delhi, Nov 14 (IANS) President Pranab Mukherjee and Vice President M. Hamid Ansari on Monday paid floral tributes to the first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru on his 127th birth anniversary.
The President and the Vice President arrived at the Shanti Vana - the memorial of Nehru on the banks of river Yamuna.
Nehru was born to Motilal Nehru and Swaroop Rani on November 14, 1889, in Allahabad.
He remained in office until his death on May 27, 1964.
As Nehru's birthday is celebrated as Children's Day, school children also gathered at the memorial to pay tributes.
--IANS
aks/in
Autocrat PM has created financial chaos in country: Congress
Delhi,National,Politics,Business/Economy, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
New Delhi, Nov 14 (IANS) The Congress on Monday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of having pushed the country into a "financial chaos" through demonetisation and called him an autocrat.
"The powerful autocratic Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi has pushed the country into a financial chaos by overnight reducing their hard earned money to worthless pieces of paper," Congress spokesman Randeep Singh Surjewala said here.
"Modiji has assumed that a clear majority in Parliament has given him a pass to act on his whims and fancies. But in a democracy the decisions have to be taken as per peoples' wishes," he added.
He said the black money that the government was targetting was not with the people who are wasting hours standing in long queues at banks and ATMs, but with "a handful of suited-booted friends of yours" who are not standing in queues.
"What is the reason that none of your corporate friends, your officers, your cabinet ministers your chief ministers or BJP leaders is seen standing in the queues outside banks? Is it not indicative of where the black money is actually lying?" Surjewala said.
He dared the Prime Minister to make public all the transactions done in the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP's) national and regional units bank accounts between March and September this year.
"These bank details will show how much money was changed before the decision to demonetise Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes was announced. Isse doodh ka doodh aur pani ka pani ho jayega (It will make the picture clear)," he said.
Surjewala said that before demonetisation, the Modi government had already hiked the remittances limit by 130 per cent in a financial year.
Under the Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS), any citizen of India is allowed to freely remit up to $2,50,000 in a financial year. In 2013 this limit was $75,000.
--IANS
mak/rn
44 per cent people found ATMs non-functional
Delhi,National,Business/Economy, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
New Delhi, Nov 14 (IANS) As difficulties continue in exchanging demonetised notes and withdrawing cash, 44 per cent of respondents in a survey complained that ATMs did not work between November 11 and 13.
With more than 9,000 citizens participating, 14 per cent said they had to wait for up to 2 hours, 8 per cent said they able to get cash in less than 10 minutes while 34 per cent did not visit an ATM, according to a survey conducted by the LocalCircles citizen engagement platform.
Similarly, at the banks, 29 per cent people said they had to wait for over two hours to exchange notes, 21 per cent waited between 30 minutes to two hours, 11 per cent suggested being able to transact in 10 minutes or less while 39 per cent did not visit the bank for currency exchange, it said.
In addition to sharing their experiences with the ATM and banks, citizens also highlighted the negative impacts of the demonetisation plan and the process gaps they have observed.
They said that enough currency notes were not available in small denominations before rolling out the scheme. Citizens have highlighted that since the introduction of the Rs 2000 note was already announced last month, ATMs could have been upgraded to dispense these while maintaining secrecy.
As per field experiences of LocalCircles members, more than 40 per cent people in bank lines stood for someone else.
Since 80 per cent of the currency is in Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, business owners said they are finding footfalls reduced by 50 per cent in malls, local markets and the like. The majority of citizens said they expect these difficulties to continue in the coming months.
--IANS
mg/vm
India's first Cherry Blossom Festival starts in Meghalaya
Meghalaya,National,Environment/Wildlife, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
Shillong, Nov 14 (IANS) Meghalaya on Monday became the first state to start India's first Cherry Blossom Festival, which is widely celebrated in Japan.
The four-day festival will also provide opportunities to showcase the unique beauty of pink and white cherry blossoms as well as Meghalaya's traditional arts, culture and cuisine to the naturalists and tourists.
Chief Minister Mukul Sangma inaugurated India's first Cherry Blossom Festival in this state capital of Meghalaya, where cherry blossoms are in full bloom in several parts of the city and the suburbs.
Sangma said: "This nature's gift of cherry blossoms to Meghalaya must be appreciated and is one of several elements that makes Meghalaya an attractive destination for tourists looking for a green destination and a short break away from the hustle and bustle of polluted cities."
He also appreciated the partnership with Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD) for joint conceptualisation and implementation of this humble yet successful start in putting Meghalaya onto the global tourist map.
The IBSD, a national institute of the Centre's Department of Biotechnology, said the festival would not only bring socio-economic development in the region, but also promote peace, prosperity and sustainable development, which are the United Nation's sustainable development goals.
IBSD Director Dinabandhu Sahoo, who conceptualised the Cherry Blossom Festival in India, said the event would set the stage for 2017, which has been declared by the UN as International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development.
"This festival would create a number of opportunities for the people of Meghalaya," he said, emphasising that collaborations should be developed with Japan so that more international tourists can visit the north-eastern states.
The Cherry Blossom Festival, popularly known as Sakura Festival in Japan, is held in April every year. Australia, Korea, China, the US and some other countries celebrate the festival which helps in creating a positive impact on the local economy.
The Washington DC Cherry Blossom Festival alone generates about $126 million from tourists every year from across the world, Sahoo said.
--IANS
rrk/ask/vt
Domestic, foreign traders accepting demonetised notes at Trade Fair
Delhi,National,Business/Economy, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
New Delhi, Nov 14 (IANS) The 36th India International Trade Fair, inaugurated here on Monday, has become an easy way out for people to use up their demonetised currency of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 as domestic and even foreign traders are easily and openly accepting payment in the phased-out notes.
"We are accepting all notes. Rs 500, Rs 1,000, Rs 2,000 -- all notes. People can buy anything for the full amount of the old currency. However, we cannot give change," a woman trader at Turkey's pavilion told IANS.
The annual IITF is being organised by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and will continue till November 27 at the sprawling Pragati Maidan here.
Another trader at the Myanmar pavilion, selling precious stones and gems and jewellery, said: "You can pay us anyhow, we are accepting online payments and cash as well. Cash... you can pay in old currency also."
Asked how will they get it exchanged as the notes have been demonetised, the trader nonchalantly said that he has access to Indian accounts into which he can deposit the cash.
The government had announced demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes on November 8 night.
The public at large is easily using up their stock of demonetised notes at the trade fair. A customer told IANS: "I brought new currency with me and old currency also. And I have purchased stuff using both. Many Indian and foreign counters are accepting old notes."
An Indian dealer trading in tea leaves said that they are open to accepting old Rs 500 notes and would even give the remaining change if the purchase is of lesser amount.
Asked if the government is allowing to trade in old notes at the trade fair, the sales girl told IANS: "I do not know. But we have instructions from our company to accept demonetised notes too."
Demand for point of sale (POS) machines have also gone up as the traders at the fair are accepting card payments. At the State Bank of India counter, an employee said that on the first day of the trade fair itself, orders for about 60 machines have been placed.
A trader who was filling the form for a POS machine told IANS: "The cosmetic pavilion is openly accepting old currency notes. They will get it exchanged later from the market. I am not accepting, so I have to take card payments."
This year's fair is seeing 7,000 participants including representation from 24 nations, Indian states and union territories, public and private enterprises with around 800 rural artisans and craftspersons.
(Meghna Mittal can be reached at meghna.m@ians.in)
--IANS
mm/vd/vt
Congress dares PM to disclose BJP's bank transactions
Delhi,National,Politics,Business/Economy, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
New Delhi, Nov 14 (IANS) The Congress on Monday dared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to make public the bank transactions of the BJP's national and regional accounts from March to September 2016, following allegations of a spike in deposits in some bank accounts in September.
The Congress also attacked the government for allegedly leaking the demonetise move to a "selected few" and questioned how the BJP's Kolkata unit had deposited Rs one crore on November 8, the day Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes.
"In September 2016, as against August 2016, there was a spike in deposits of Rs 5,88,600 lakh crore in banks across the country," Congress spokesman Randeep Singh Surjewala told reporters here.
"According to RBI figures, money deposited in all the banks in July 2016 was Rs 96,196 billion, whereas in September 2016, this rose to Rs 1,02,082 billion," he added.
Surjewala said the huge increase in deposited amount "tells the tale of black money".
"In July 2015, the money deposited in all the banks was Rs 88,301 billion. In September 2015, the money deposited in the banks was Rs 89,462 billion, which means around Rs 1 lakh crore extra money was deposited," said Surjewala.
"But, in July 2016, Rs 96,196 billion was deposited and in September 2016, it became 1,02,082 billion, which shows that the increase in the deposits during this period was around Rs 14 lakh crore," he added.
He also termed as a "lame duck excuse", Finance Minister Arun Jaitley clarifying that in September the arrears of the Seventh Pay Commission was paid leading to increase in bank deposits.
Congress said the Bharatiya Janata Party should disclose all the bank details of their national and state bank accounts from March to September 2016.
"Everything will become clear how much money has been exchanged before the demonetisation announcement."
"A few hours before the announcement of demonetisation, the Kolkata unit of BJP deposited Rs one crore in a bank bearing account number 554510034 on November 8, which was deposited by O.P. Jha. The information was leaked to a few selected people," he added.
The Congress also accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of having pushed the country into a "financial chaos" through demonetisation and called him an autocrat.
"The powerful autocratic Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi has pushed the country into a financial chaos by overnight reducing their hard earned money to worthless pieces of paper," Surjewala said.
"Modiji has assumed that a clear majority in Parliament has given him a pass to act on his whims and fancies. But in a democracy the decisions have to be taken as per peoples' wishes," he added.
He said the black money that the government was targetting was not with the people who are wasting hours standing in long queues at banks and ATMs, but with "a handful of suited-booted friends of yours" who are not standing in queues.
"What is the reason that none of your corporate friends, your officers, your cabinet ministers your chief ministers or BJP leaders is seen standing in the queues outside banks? Is it not indicative of where the black money is actually lying?" Surjewala said.
Surjewala said that before demonetisation, the Modi government had already hiked the remittances limit by 130 per cent in a financial year.
Under the Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS), any citizen of India is allowed to freely remit up to $2,50,000 in a financial year. In 2013 this limit was $75,000.
--IANS
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Karnataka to set up women's parks to facilitate entrepreneurs
Karnataka,Business/Economy,Politics, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
Bengaluru, Nov 14 (IANS) The Karnataka government on Monday invited women entrepreneurs to explore investment opportunities in the state, saying it will set up 'Women's Park' in all 30 district to facilitate their business endeavours.
"Our government has rolled out a red carpet for women entrepreneurs to explore investment opportunities in Karnataka and make it their base," said Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at an international conclave here.
Asserting that the state's new industrial policy gave special attention to women entrepreneurs for inclusive growth, the Chief Minister said the state government will set up 'Women's Park' in each district across the state to facilitate their enterprises and industrial capacity building.
"Though we decided to set up a Women's Park at Harohally near Bengaluru initially, we received demands for similar parks from all districts (30) across the state," Siddaramaiah said while inaugurating the two-day 'ThinkBig 2016',a women entrepreneurs summit, at a convention centre here.
Organised by the state government in association with WEConnect International, Asia's largest women entrepreneurship platform has brought 2,000 delegates, 300 industry leaders and 400 organisations from across the world on one platform to inspire more women to become entrepreneurs in diverse sectors.
The US-based WEConnect is a global network that connects women-owned businesses to qualified buyers the world over and helps women entrepreneurs to succeed in global value chains.
"As WEConnect helps women-owned businesses succeed in global value chain and connects them to Indian and multinational corporations, I have approved to reimburse its fee for the next three years to encourage women entrepreneurs," the Chief Minister said.
He said the state had the best diversity ratio in employment and entrepreneurship in the country.
"I am sure all delegates will experience the rich programmes, matchmaking and networking with corporate, government and women entrepreneurs and exhibitors showcasing brands, products and services," Siddaramaiah said.
According to the fourth Medium, Small and Micro Enterprises (MSME) census, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal have 51.9 per cent of the country's women-owned businesses, indicating the potential for further growth.
As per a World Bank report, the US has the highest women workforce (45 per cent), followed by Britain (43 per cent), Canada (42 per cent), Indonesia (40 per cent), France (38 per cent) and Brazil 38 per cent and India (31.6 per cent).
"We have 50 per cent reservation for women in local bodies to ensure equality, promote their participation in governances even at the grass-roots level for all-round socio-economic development of the state," added Siddaramaiah.
--IANS
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Opposition leaders to meet on Tuesday against demonetisation
Delhi,National,Politics,Business/Economy, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
New Delhi, Nov 14 (IANS) The opposition leaders on Monday joined hands in opposing the demonetisation of high-value currency notes and plan to hold another meeting on Tuesday to chalk out their strategy for Parliament's winter session, opening on Wednesday.
On Monday, leaders of the Congress, Trinamool Congress (TMC), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Janata Dal-United (JD-U), Communist Party of India (CPI), Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M), Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and the YSR Congress met in the room allotted to Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad.
"All parties denounced the manner in which the demonetisation was enforced. We are not against fighting black money, but this action has affected the farmers and daily wage earners," CPI leader D. Raja told IANS.
The opposition leaders will meet again at 2 p.m. on Tuesday and decide their strategy for the session.
Those present in the meeting included Sharad Yadav, Sitaram Yechury, Sudip Bandopadhyay, Derek O'Brien, D. Raja, Prem Chand Gupta, Sushil Kumar and M. Rajamohan Reddy.
Besides Azad, Congress Leader in the Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge and the party's Deputy Leader in the Rajya Sabha Anand Sharma were also present.
The opposition parties are quite vocal in opposing demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes on November 8 night, which has left people slogging in long queues outside banks and ATMs, with many complaining they do not have enough money even to buy esential items.
--IANS
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Paralysed property dealer shot dead, wife critically injured
Delhi,National,Crime/Disaster/Accident, Tue, 15 Nov 2016 IANS
New Delhi, Nov 14 (IANS) A 40-year-old property dealer was shot dead by two unidentified assailants in his own house on Monday while his wife was critically injured in the attack, police said.
The incident happened in Brijwasan area, where Sonu Rana, who was paralysed since the last couple of months, used to operate from his house.
According to police, around 3.45 p.m. two bike-borne assailants came to meet him to inquire about a property.
"When Rana came out with his wife as he could not able to walk properly, both the assailants shot at him thrice and one of the bullets also hit his wife," Deputy Commissioner of Police Surender Kumar told IANS.
Rana died on the spot, while his wife, who was admitted to a nearby private hospital, is said to be critical, Kumar said. The assailants managed to flee, he said.
A case of murder has been registered and further investigation is on, he said.
--IANS
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At COP22 in Marrakech, Morocco unveiled its new initiative, dubbed Blue Belt, to boost sustainable fisheries and bolster coastal resilience to climate change.
On the occasion of this COP, Morocco will confirm its support for the initiatives relating to the oceans, which have been already launched, and will launch a new initiative called the Blue Belt, aimed at increasing the resilience of coastal populations as well as promoting sustainable fishing activities, Princess Lalla Hasnaa, Chairwoman of the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection, Ambassador of the Coast, said in a speech at the opening ceremony of the Oceans Day at COP22.
The Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection will join the Blue Belt, said Princess Lalla Hasnaa, the youngest sister of King Mohammed VI, during the ceremony which was notably attended by Prince Albert of Monaco, French Minister of the Environment, Energy and the Sea, President of the COP 21, Segolene Royal, and European Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Karmenu Vella.
The Foundation will take part in the creation of marine protected areas in keeping with its efforts to bolster sustainable development of three Moroccan wetlands on the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts, she said, adding that oceans protection is part of Moroccos environmental engagement, which is a key component of public policies.
The Oceans Action Event at COP 22, part of the Global Climate Action Agenda, features high-level political leaders from around the world, international agencies, NGOs, experts, and private sector representatives to showcase how the world is tackling climate change impacts on oceans, seas, and coastal and island populations.
Morocco and Senegal are two old friend countries boasting an enduring and special relationship based on the values of freedom, democracy, enterprise and mutual respect.
The two countries are busy working building a modern and model South-South partnership tackling shared challenges and promoting mutual prosperity.
King Mohammed VI paid several visit to Senegal wherein he launched landmark socioeconomic development projects. During latest royal historical visit to this African country, the Sovereign addressed Moroccan people from Dakar on the occasion of the Green March, an unprecedented event showing the depth and solidity of the Moroccan relations.
During this visit, the Moroccan monarch received a warm welcome from Senegalese people and had a private meeting with president Macky Sall. The two leaders chaired later on signing ceremony of numerous cooperation accords.
These accords seek to boost small-scale agriculture in Senegal, octopus farming and preservation in this African country which received 12 Moroccan inflatable boats for rescue operations and monitoring of fishing activities.
King Mohammed VI and President Sall also chaired the launch ceremony of an Entrepreneurship Training Center to provide training on business creation to 300 young people a year in various sectors including tourism.
The center will also offer assistance to 100 young people carry out their projects.
The two Heads of State also visited Dakar Hospital where the Moroccan Sovereign donated to the Senegalese Aids Control National Council 1.6 tons of medicines to combat this deadly disease.
On the sidelines of the royal visit, the two countries carriers are also exploring partnership and joint business opportunities.
During the royal visit to Senegal, four partnership agreements, mapped out by the Moroccan-Senegalese Economic Impulse Group, were inked under chairmanship of King Mohammed VI and President Macky Sall.
The goal of these agreements is to promote tourism between two countries, set up a trade exhibition for social, solidarity economy & handicrafts, establish a Senegalese center for the development of IT & digital competence and create joint venture between Moroccan La voie express and Senegalese company Tex Courrier.
The Moroccan-Senegalese Economic Impulse Group endeavors more support for the sectors of transportation & logistics, an economic intelligence unit, better coordination between public and private sectors.
To achieve the goals set by the two countries leaders, the Moroccan & Senegalese businessmen call for more investment and tourism flow, support for the social economy, the removal of trade barriers, harmonized health standards and that signing of a trade deal with ECOWAS to get access to this market with huge business opportunities.
Morocco, host country of the 22nd UN climate conference, has launched Adaptation of African Agriculture (AAA) initiative which seeks to restore African ecosystem balance and enable countries of the continent to have access to climate funds.
This initiative focuses on strengthening the financing capacities of African farmers, via the micro-credit generalization to small farmers, meso-credit development to medium-sized farms and mobile banking solutions deployment.
It is characterized by its pragmatic approach based on the design, implementation and monitoring of bankable projects with accountability for results and impacts on African countries populations.
It will help link climate financing with food security through priority projects, which will allow for better appreciation of Africas natural resources in a sustainable manner.
The AAA initiative calls for the mobilization of all stakeholders: governments, international institutions, private sector, NGOs, and scientific community.
The Moroccan government seeks to mobilise $30bn of investment for the sector that is under the most significant threat from climate change, in the region that is the least equipped to deal with it.
According to current estimates, the negative effects of climate change are already reducing Africas GDP by about 1.4 per cent, and the costs arising from adaptation to climate change are set to reach an annual three per cent of GDP by 2030.
A principal victim of this is the agriculture sector, which not only feeds the chronically food-insecure continent, but forms the backbone of its economy and its route out of poverty.
A new study out this week led by the International Fund for Agricultural Development shows that Moroccos approach may well be on the right track. It confirms that investment in climate-sensitive approaches for smallholder farmers can more than double farmer incomes meaning directing climate funding for adaptation in African agriculture would make both climate and economic sense.
However, Africa currently only attracts around 5 per cent of climate funding.
Morocco has purchased from the World Bank USD 100 million Green Bonds to fund sustainable development projects in African countries to support their transition to a low carbon economy.
Many political analysts are wondering whether there is currently a Saudi mediation to heal relations between Algeria and its neighboring Morocco as top Algerian officials have softened up lately their anti-Moroccan rhetoric prior a visit to Riyadh by Algerian Premier Abdelmalek Sellal.
Morocco is one of the strategic partners of the Arab rich Gulf monarchies, while Algeria is an OPEC member as countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) gathering Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman.
Saudi Arabia has offered many times in the past its mediation to settle the disputes opposing Morocco to Algeria, particularly the Sahara issue, which is paralyzing the Arab Maghreb Union.
Road borders between the two neighbors remain closed since 1994 despite Moroccos numerous calls to the Algerians to reopen the borders and lift the hurdles which are affecting trade exchanges in the Maghreb and people living the near the borders.
The two countries remain at loggerhead with unbridgeable disagreements over the Sahara issue as Algeria continues to fund, harbor and provide weapons to Polisario separatists.
But lately Algerian PM Abdelmalek Sellal has softened the tone. In an interview with Sharq al-Awsat newspaper, he described Morocco as a brother and neighboring country, saying Algiers is ready to settle its differences with Rabat in a bid to give a new impetus Arab Maghreb Union (UMA).
There are issues on which we have opposed viewpoints. Algeria prefers a global approach where all questions will be posed in a direct dialogue, he added, noting his country supports UN political negotiations on Sahara and hopes that these negotiations will lead to a final and just solution to this conflict.
For his part, former Algerian foreign minister Abdelaziz Belkhadem early this month in an interview CNN Arabic spoke in favor of reopening land borders with Morocco.
According to some political analysts, the change in tone of the Algerian officials comes as this North African country seeks support to weather the economic and financial crisis after the falling in oil prices, while Morocco is thriving, expanding its influence in Africa and turning a world leader in renewable energies.
Furthermore, Morocco has sealed a strategic partnership with GCC which openly expressed support to Moroccos territorial integrity and backed its sovereignty over Sahara, hailing autonomy plan for the Moroccan Sahara.
Last April, Morocco and GCC convened in Riyadh their 1st summit meeting, a historical event that ushered in a new era in partnership between Rabat and the six-member powerful regional economic bloc, sharing common geostrategic, economic, and religious interests.
All these factors playing in favor of Morocco suggest that rival Algeria might seek Gulf backing to catch up. After all nothing is impossible in the world of politics wherein old foes become friends and vice versa!
Thirteen centres of excellence and think tanks from Africa, Europe, Asia and Latin America came together, on Monday in the Moroccan COP22 pavilion, to launch a network dubbed The International Climate Change Centre of Excellence and Think Tanks for Capacity Building (INCCCETT 4CB).
The network aims at catalysing cooperation and coordination between the centres of excellence in the field of capacity building for climate change mitigation and adaptation in order to boost efforts towards the implementation of the Paris Agreement.
Speaking on this occasion, Nizar Baraka, President of the COP 22 Scientific Committee, and President of the Economic, Social and Environmental Council, highlighted the role that these centres can play in promoting capacity building efforts as part of south-south and north-south cooperation.
Capacity building is a priority for Moroccos COP22 Presidency along with adaptation, funding, NDCs, technology transfer and innovation, said Baraka.
Speaking on the same occasion, Argentinas Under-Secretary for Climate Change and Sustainable Development, Carlos Gorissen, welcomed the initiative, saying that the network is well placed to act as a bridge between policy makers and the scientific community.
Each with extensive and substantial expertise in elaborating climate change plans, research and development, and capacity building, the 13 founding excellence centres and think tanks of the network are: Centre de Competences Changement Climatique (4C Maroc); Inter-American Institute for Global Change Research (IAI); Basque Centre for Climate Change (BC3); Institut du Developpement Durable et des Relations Internationales (IDDRI); RedeClima Brazil; Centre for Climate and Resilience Research, Chile ; International Research Institute for Climate and Society of Columbia University (IRI); German Development Institute (DIE); National Climate Change Strategy Research and International Cooperation Center (NCSC), China; Consortium of Finnish Universities; Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI); International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) and the African Center for Technology Studies (ACTS).
The Network founding members agreed to establish a permanent secretariat at the Competency Centre of Climate Change (4C Maroc) in Morocco.
When he took office in 2001, George W. Bush inherited a healthy Republican Party roughly at parity with its opposition. When he left office eight years later, Bush had degraded his partys image and taught a generation of Americans to loathe the GOP, and members of that generation have clung to their disgust through every election cycle since (though their enthusiasm for showing up at the ballot box has waxed and waned). Bush was such a comprehensive political fiasco that his only saving grace, in terms of the brand management of the Republican Party, was handing his successor a financial crisis so deep it allowed Republicans in Congress to run against his successors attempts to recover from it. The Bush administration cratered because it was filled with hacks, ideologues, and business cronies and led by a mental lightweight. Many people believed that for the Republican Party to recover, it would have to develop a governing class that grasped science and evidence.
It is safe to say that this has not exactly transpired. The Trump administration will make the last failed Republican presidency look like an age of reason. The United States has never elected a president so openly contemptuous of democratic norms. Theres no So Youve Elected a Bullying, Racist, Authoritarian Swindler As President pamphlet within easy reach. The loyal opposition faces an unusual paradox. What will almost certainly be a catastrophe for the Republican Party in the long run will also be a catastrophe for the United States much sooner. The threat posed by Trump requires a massive countermobilization of people and resources with the dual tasks of safeguarding the large-D Democratic Party and small-D democracy.
A letter to Trump from a first-grade student at Woodland School, Portola Valley, California. Photo: Bobby Doherty/New York Magazine
The immediate theater of action will be in Washington, where the key political dynamic has been identified by Mitch McConnell, the Senate majority leader. We worked very hard to keep our fingerprints off of these proposals, he told The Atlantic in 2011, referring generally to the agenda of Barack Obama and his fellow Democrats in Congress. Because we thought correctly, I think that the only way the American people would know that a great debate was going on was if the measures were not bipartisan. When you hang the bipartisan tag on something, the perception is that differences have been worked out, and theres a broad agreement that thats the way forward. Democrats in Congress have to understand this. Most people, and especially low-information voters who decide elections, pay little attention to legislative details. Bipartisanship tells them things are going well. Partisan conflict tells them things are going badly. McConnell filibustered the first bill that came up in 2009, a conservation measure with broad bipartisan appeal that ultimately passed with 77 votes.
The second element of this dynamic is equally crucial: It is the governing party that will be held accountable by the voters. Bipartisanship suggests high presidential approval, which leads to more success for the governing party in Congress and for the presidents reelection. Helping the majority govern means helping the majority maintain power. As McConnell said in 2010, The reward for playing team ball this year was the reversal of the political environment and the possibility that we will have a bigger team next year. The conventional wisdom of the pre-Obama years, that the minority would pay a price for obstruction, was precisely backward. The minority party pays a price for bipartisanship.
This does not mean Democrats should ape destructive tactics like shutting down the government or threatening default (which, in any case, they have no opportunity to do without the majority in either chamber of Congress). It does not even mean they should rule out all cooperation. It means they should carefully weigh every policy concession they can win, assuming that any present themselves, against the enormous political price they will pay by getting it. A few policy goals could meet this test. If Trump is somehow willing to abandon his catastrophic plan to destroy the international climate accords and unleash irreversible planetary catastrophe, or perhaps rethink his partys plan to deny access to medical care to millions of Americans too poor or sick to afford it, the political sacrifice of offering bipartisan cover to Trumpian moderation would be worthwhile.
In the short run, this calculation is almost entirely theoretical. Trumps allies in Congress are prepared to collect on their devils bargain. House Speaker Paul Ryan described the election as a mandate a curious term for an election in which his party will finish second in the national vote and Republicans will move with maximal haste on plans to cut taxes for the rich, deregulate the financial industry, and cut social spending for the poor. There is no other conceivable course of action: The Republican Party in Washington has been organized over the last three decades as a machine to redistribute resources upward. It has no other ideas and automatically rejects any proposals with any other effect. The political cost of waging class war for the rich will not deter them because it is their reason for existing. Trump managed to pass himself off to many hard-pressed voters as an enemy of concentrated wealth, but concentrated wealth mostly knew better, which is why stock of Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and JPMorgan Chase swelled on the news of the incoming friendly administration. Democrats in Congress must make it their task to expose the contradiction Trump has heretofore concealed.
So should anyone who voted for Hillary Clinton. The day after the election, protesters swarmed the streets of major cities shouting that Trump was not my president. Good for them. They were not expressing the traditional postelection decorum, but then again, many were simply describing reality: Trump has almost explicitly promised not to be the president of large swaths of this country. His campaign was rooted in his belief that Mexican-Americans and Muslim immigrants cannot become real Americans. There can be purpose beyond catharsis to theatrical expressions of alienation and anger. Just look at the tea party.
Trumps loyal opposition has a duty to respect the law. More than that for all those who are wondering, everyone must hope he can avoid the worst. It might help Democrats regain power if Trump throws 20 million Americans off their insurance, dissolves NATO, or prosecutes Hillary Clinton, but that is not an agenda to root for. Less horrible is better. At the same time, Americans who did not support Trump have no obligation to normalize his behavior. To the contrary: Upholding the dignity and value of the presidency means refusing to treat the ascendancy of a Trump into the office as normal. Trump is counting on a combination of media weariness and Republican partisan solidarity to allow him to grind governing norms to dust. Two days after the election, his attorney reaffirmed his intention to have his children run his business even while he serves as president an arrangement creating limitless opportunity for corruption, as his use of the presidency enriches his brand and foreign leaders strike deals that curry personal favor.
Whatever signs of normality he has given since Tuesdays triumph are, thus far, purely superficial. To submit to a world where we say the words President Trump without anger or laughter is to surrender our idea of what the office means.
A broader and even more vital mission, one that should attract support far beyond the Democratic Party, is to safeguard and expand space for political dissent. American politics has regularly been stalked by authoritarian figures, from Charles Coughlin to Joseph McCarthy to George Wallace. None of them has ever had command of a party with full control of government. It is now within the realm of imagining that the United States will come to resemble some sort of illiberal democracy or quasi-democracy Berlusconis Italy or, eventually, even Putins Russia.
This is no mere Trumpian personal idiosyncrasy. The GOP is absorbing the ideological tendencies of other far-right nationalist parties. The Nevada Republican Party chair raged at evening early-voting in Las Vegas: Last night, in Clark County, they kept a poll open till ten oclock at night so a certain group could vote Yeah, you feel free right now? Think this is a free or easy election? Alabamas Jeff Sessions, Trumps closest Senate ally, has railed against a global intellect elites with their big money and George Soros and his globalist crowd. Milwaukee sheriff David Clarke, who spoke at the Cleveland convention and has been touted as a potential Homeland Security secretary, tweeted that anti-Trump protests must be quelled. A recent Pew survey asked whether certain characteristics are important to maintaining a strong democracy. Fewer than half of the Trump supporters surveyed agreed with the statements Those who lose elections recognize the legitimacy of the winners and News organizations are free to criticize political leaders. Traditional Republicans in Washington will go along with all this, provided Trump signs Paul Ryans fiscal agenda into law.
American small-D democrats need to treat the election of Trumps party in a way not unlike how we respond to authoritarianism overseas. The nonprofit sector has a long tradition of subsidizing institutions to safeguard open discourse, human rights, labor rights, and ballot access. (Not coincidentally, Soros has made enemies in the Putinsphere by doing precisely this.) Trumps government will probably set itself the task of grinding down all these rights, from union organizing to civil-rights enforcement to freedom from torture. Philanthropists should subsidize legal defenses for journalists threatened by the tactic, embraced by Trump and his ally Peter Thiel, of bankrupting critics through exorbitant legal action. America already has a nonprofit infrastructure devoted to safeguarding domestic civil, human, and political rights, but it will have to scale up radically to meet the threat of a Trumpist party in full command of the federal government. Democracy will not disappear overnight, but it can be eroded over time. The fight to defend it must be joined in full.
There is one glimmer of dare I say it hope. Opposition parties tend to suffer from a lack of charismatic, high-profile leaders. American liberals enjoy the unusual good fortune of having the most popular politician in America on their side in Barack Obama. Obama has floated plans to devote his postpresidency to mentoring young black men. This is both a worthy endeavor and no longer the most high-leverage use of his time.
Obama very properly offered his deference to the validity of Trumps election (proving himself a more committed democrat than the president-elect, who refused beforehand to bind himself to the outcome and who, in 2012, took to Twitter on Election Night to call for revolution when it momentarily seemed that Obama would win the Electoral College while losing the popular vote). But the political-cultural norm of former presidents steering clear of politics is not rooted in any particular public interest. All recent living ex-presidents left office either infirm, unpopular, or in some way disgraced. (A pardon scandal in his final days, compounded by his sexual dalliance, created an especially noxious odor around Bill Clinton.) There is no example of a young, popular former president facing a successor committed to destroying all of his work.
And so the man who thought he was through with politics has, it turns out, one more essential role left: Beginning next year, Obama needs to rally the opposition, to community-organize his coalition, and to exploit his celebrity to make the case for saving his legacy. His visibility alone would serve a vital function. Trumps election has sent a statement to Americans and the world about the countrys identity. It has been received viscerally, by bullies abusing minorities as well as by fearful allies overseas. Obama is a powerful symbol of rationalism, thoughtfulness, and pluralism the ultimate anti-Trump, both ideologically and symbolically. Women, religious minorities, immigrants and prospective immigrants, transgender people, young Africans with iPhones, the beat-down opposition in places like Russia and China, and the people who bully all the preceding groups and more the whole planet, really need reminding that Obamas version of America has prevailed before and will prevail again.
The night after the election. Photo: Andres Kudacki
And prevail we can. The aftermath of every election plunges the losers into despair and launches the victors into giddiness, and Trumps shocking victory has had an unusually distorting effect. American progressives are burdened with a habit, stretching back decades, of handling political success badly taking power for granted, bemoaning compromised progress, and collapsing into sectarian cannibalism. Hillary Clinton suffered from the same liberal ennui that bedeviled Al Gore in 2000, Hubert Humphrey in 1968, and Harry Truman in 1948. She suffered additionally from the self-inflicted wounds of bad decisions regarding hired speeches and her private email server, months of bruising attacks on her ethics from Bernie Sanders, and a widespread sexism that made her ordinary shortcomings seem sinister. Add to that a press corps that obsessed over her email lapse and twin attacks by Russian intelligence and rogue, right-wing FBI agents. It all culminated with the director of the FBIs breaking all precedent to float new insinuations of wrongdoing against her ten days before the election, sealing her image as an untrustworthy and even criminal figure. Polls taken at the end of the campaign demonstrated that voters, astonishingly, believed that she was less honest and trustworthy than her opponent a man who is literally facing trial for fraud.
Trump will solve the Democrats voter-complacency problem for them. He may also help them solve another problem: massive Republican gerrymandering. The House map is redrawn every ten years, and Republicans had the good fortune that the last redrawing followed their 2010 anti-Obama midterm wave, allowing them to lock into place a map of districts designed to virtually guarantee Republican control throughout the decade. Should Democrats generate an effective response to Trump, an anti-incumbent wave could allow the party to capture governorships in 2018 and legislatures that year and in 2020. They would then be in a position to create district maps that are more fair and democratic and which, more often then not, would turn more Democratic.
Remember: When Trump showed the first signs of seriously challenging for the nomination, the panicked Republican Establishment identified him as a political calamity a candidate who appealed to the partys shrinking white, non-college-educated base and alienated the minorities and educated voters whose share of the electorate was growing. Its calculations were off, but only to a degree. Trump drew every ounce out of a shrinking coalition.
The party Establishment was on track to wipe its hands of the foul nominee after his expected defeat, clearing the way for fresh-faced, conventionally right-wing figures like Ryan and Marco Rubio to rebuild their partys standing. The flip side of a president who will sign Ryans agenda into law is that there will be no more oh-so-earnest Ryan speeches apologizing from the bottom of his heart for the nominees transgressions. Instead, a man who embodies hateful, misogynistic bluster will define the partys imprint in a lasting way. Tens of millions of young voters, and children too young to vote, will grow up associating the Republican Party with a man who embodies reactionary hate against them. The Trump stink will not wash away easily.
Notwithstanding his ability to appear reasonable from time to time, Trump has character traits that are consistent and long-standing. The postelection hope that his lifelong childlike attention span, monumental ego, obsession with dominance and vengeance, and greed verging on outright criminality will abate in his eighth decade is fanciful. More so the notion that the experience of enjoying electoral vindication against his critics, then ascending to the most powerful position in the world, will curtail these tendencies.
Trumps election is one of the greatest disasters in American history. It is worth recalling, however, that history is punctuated with disasters, yet the country is in a better place now than it was a half-century ago, and a better place than a half-century before that, and so on. Despair is a counterproductive response. So is denial an easy temptation in the wake of the inevitable postelection pleasantries and displays of respect needed to maintain the peaceful transfer of power. The proper response is steely resolve to wage the fight of our lives.
*This article appears in the November 14, 2016, issue of New York Magazine.
Government bound? Photo: Stephane Cardinale/Corbis via Getty Images
In an interview in the New York Post on Sunday, President-elect Donald Trumps ex-wife Ivana Trump said that she would like to be appointed ambassador to the Czech Republic.
During the interview, Ivana boasted that she was quite known all around the world.
Not only in America, she added. I have written three books, and they were translated in 40 countries in 25 languages. Im known by the name Ivana. I really did not need the name Trump.
Ivana suggested that she could be ambassador for the Czech Republic, because that is where Im from and my language and everybody knows me.
Normally, it would be easy to dismiss a presidents ex-wife claiming that she would make a good ambassador to a country on the grounds that she speaks the language, but this is a presidency in which the presidents children are somehow allowed to stay on and manage his global business empire, so anything is possible.
Elsewhere in the interview, Ivana who certainly knows Donald Trumps habits better than just about anybody provided some insight into what a Trump presidency might look like.
First she reassured the nations nervous interior-decorating enthusiasts by saying, I dont think hes going to do gold leafing in the White House. But she did say that she doubted that Trump would be willing to truly leave his Trump Tower apartment and live in the White House full time.
Not that Ivana blames him. To be perfectly honest, she said, I think probably the Trump Tower and my townhouse in New York is much better than the White House.
Ivana also intimated that the commander-in-chiefs busy travel schedule would be hell for the president-elect: Donald is like a good French wine. He doesnt like to be moved and traveled. The last 18 months, he traveled as much as he ever has in his life. Thank God he has his private plane, but still, it was brutal.
Im lending him my box set of West Wing DVDs. Hell be fine. Photo: Win McNamee/Getty Images
By naming Reince Priebus and Steve Bannon as his top two advisers, President-elect Donald Trump set up a battle between the GOP Establishment and the alt-right for control of his administration and there may be a third voice whispering in the presidents ear. The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday that President Obama plans to spend more time with his successor than presidents typically do because he realized during their meeting last week that Trump needs more guidance. Per the Journal:
During their private White House meeting on Thursday, Mr. Obama walked his successor through the duties of running the country, and Mr. Trump seemed surprised by the scope, said people familiar with the meeting. Trump aides were described by those people as unaware that the entire presidential staff working in the West Wing had to be replaced at the end of Mr. Obamas term.
One would think that Obama would spend as little time as possible with a man who repeatedly suggested that hes the Kenyan-born founder of ISIS, but what was scheduled to be a 15-minute meeting wound up lasting 90 minutes. As I said last night, my number one priority in the next two months is to try to facilitate a transition that ensures our president-elect is successful, Obama said.
Prior to the meeting, White House press secretary Josh Earnest said Obama would take the opportunity to urge Trump to keep some of his policies in place though many could be undone with a few executive orders. He may have had some success. After promising to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, Trump told the Journal on Friday that hed consider keeping two provisions that he discussed with Obama: the prohibition on denying coverage because of preexisting conditions, and allowing children to stay on their parents health insurance plan into their late 20s.
Trump confirmed that he is interested in keeping those two very popular provisions in his interview with 60 Minutes, which aired on Sunday night. Trump reiterated that he and Obama had great chemistry, and said he was surprised that there was zero awkwardness. He even heaped more praise on the president:
I found him to be terrific. I found him to be very smart and very nice. Great sense of humor, as much as you can have a sense of humor talking about tough subjects, but we were talking about some pretty tough subjects.
In addition to Obamacare, those topics included the Middle East and North Korea. On Monday night, President Obama will embark on his last foreign trip, heading to Greece, Germany, and Peru. It was supposed to be a celebratory farewell tour, but now Obamas mission is assuring foreign nations that America will keep its commitments though, in some instances, Trump has said that it wont.
Trump is not consistent, so by the time Obama gets back, Trump may have decided that he doesnt need the presidents help during the nine-week transition after all. But liberals need something to keep them going, and the idea of Obama and Trump forging an unlikely friendship is a more appealing best-case scenario than Mike Pence secretly calling the shots.
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and incoming Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer. Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images
In the disorienting wake of Donald Trumps election, Democrats in Congress grasped for some normality. To them being Democrats reared for decades in a lawmaking culture this meant some reassurance that they would participate in legislation. They quickly settled on Trumps proposal for infrastructure spending as a promising venue through which they could trade cooperation for policy leverage. Charles Schumer, the incoming Senate minority leader, sounded excited about the prospect of passing a bill he has worked for years to enact without success. As President-elect Trump indicated last night, investing in infrastructure is an important priority of his, announced Nancy Pelosi. We can work together to quickly pass a robust infrastructure jobs bill.
How and where to cooperate with Trump presents many dilemmas for the opposition, pitting the Democrats self-interest against the need to safeguard the welfare of the countrys political institutions. There are certainly venues where Americans alarmed by the incoming president ought to consider working with him for the sake of preserving the welfare of the country. But infrastructure is not one of those dilemmas. Supporting a Trumpian infrastructure bill would be to cooperate with the subversion of American government and an act of political self-sabotage. It is an idea so insanely bad it disturbingly suggests the party utterly fails to grasp the challenge before it, or the way out.
It would make sense that Trumps election would enable the passage of a large infrastructure plan if he were replacing a president who opposed such a plan. This is not the case. Obama spent years pleading publicly and privately with the Republicans to support a national infrastructure bank. They blocked it on the purported grounds of affordability. To the extent they are willing to support infrastructure spending under Trump, or at least stand aside, it is a continuation of a pattern dating back to Reagan, in which Republicans toggle between wild expansionary fiscal policy under Republican presidents and brutal contractionary policy under Democratic ones.
Republicans blew up the deficit under Ronald Reagan, then fomented hysterical warnings of insolvency under Bill Clinton. When Clintons policies structurally balanced the budget, they unbalanced it with massive tax cuts, a military and security buildup, and a prescription drug benefit, all entirely debt-financed. When the first signs of recession appeared in early 2008, Republicans did support a Keynesian stimulus bill. As Obama entered office, the seeming mild recession that had spurred both parties to action a year before had spiraled into a bottomless crisis unlike any in memory. But at the moment the justification for Keynesian stimulus had become stronger than at any time in the previous 80 years, Republicans embraced austerity, insisting temporary deficit spending would worsen the economy. They held to that stance with the exception of tax cuts for the rich, which they support regardless of circumstance throughout Obamas presidency, which is why they blocked infrastructure spending despite its appeal to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and other business groups.
The cycle has been repeated enough times that careful observers simply assume that the GOP will immediately flip from debt hysteria to debt mania. House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy told reporters today he still cares about the debt, but has realized that economic growth is a priority that will help resolve it a realization that somehow dawned in the immediate aftermath of the election after eluding him throughout Obamas two terms. This is a major reason the stock market has taken Trumps election with such equanimity: The government is no longer held hostage by an opposition party committed to tight fiscal policy. Steven Blitz, chief economist at Pangea Market Advisory, told The Wall Street Journal that he had previously worried the economy would tip into recession, but that new debt-financed tax cuts and spending would allay such a scenario: Now that Republicans are in control, theres no concern about debt and deficits, said Steven Blitz, chief economist at Pangea Market Advisory.
Again, this reversal has no relation to actual economic conditions. The unemployment rate is now half the level it was at the outset of Obamas presidency, when Republicans opposed fiscal stimulus. For Democrats to cooperate unconditionally with this strategy is to institutionalize a political order in which Democratic presidents must be punished with contractionary policy while Republicans are rewarded with expansionary policy. Reasonable people can disagree about what level of national debt can be sustained, but the figure is finite. The political system seems to passively accept that Americas long-term debt should be allocated toward the goal of maximizing growth exclusively during Republican administrations. Why Democrats would find this system good for their country, let alone their party, is difficult to understand.
There is additional irony in the prospect of a Republican infrastructure plan, one with even more chilling implications for democratic governance. In addition to their opposition to Democratic Keynesianism, Republicans opposed Obamas stimulus on the purported grounds that it contained pork and crony capitalism. As Michael Grunwald details in The New New Deal, his history of the stimulus, Obamas administration was seized with terror of being attacked for boondoggles. It established a rigorous vetting mechanism to ensure no dollar would be misappropriated, and obligingly eliminated any spending program that could be attacked as wasteful. Republicans gleefully savaged spending plans for such infrastructure as resodding the National Mall as if surrounding the Washington Monument with grass was an absurd indulgence public swimming pools, and virtually anything else. The administrations terror of waste did not stop the news media from framing the stimulus as largely an exercise in pork, or in deploying its resources to scour the country for examples of supposed waste. As Grunwald shows, no evidence of impropriety surfaced. As a political exercise, though, the campaign to lambaste the stimulus as corrupt payoffs to insiders was a success.
What makes this history relevant is not the implication Democrats should be driven by revenge or to replicate the Republican strategy. Indeed, low levels of routine pork-barrelling ought to be considered at worst a third-tier problem. The issue is that Trump is actually proposing to invite unprecedented levels of corruption into government. Trumps high potential for corruption involves the interplay of two different rejections of political norms. First, unlike every other presidential candidate in modern history, he has refused to disclose his tax returns, so his financial interests remain opaque. Second, he will continue to hold his interests in office rather than retreat into passive investment. Indeed, his branding business is so intricately connected to his name, which will be enhanced immeasurably through his standing as president, that he will garner enormous personal profits even if he and his family govern in a completely above-board fashion.
But that is a highly optimistic scenario given Trumps history. He has gravitated toward business dealings with organized criminals both in the United States and abroad. His foundation was a cesspool of self-dealing, and he is facing trial for fraud. Business lobbyists could literally give Trump or his children stock in return for favorable treatment, and the public would have no way of knowing.
Yesterday, Trumps close adviser and rumored cabinet official Rudy Giuliani gave an interview to Jake Tapper about the potential conflict of interest. His defense made it clear how willing the new administration is to shred any semblance of public ethics. Asked by Tapper about the presidential tradition of placing his assets in a blind trust, Giuliani replied (correctly) that a blind trust would do no good if Trumps branding business continued, since he knows its assets, and only selling off the entire company would do. But Giuliani insisted that such a drastic step would be unfair to Trumps offspring: Put his children out of work, theyd have to go start a whole new business, that would set up a whole set of new problems. The premise that Trumps children could not find jobs that did not involve selling their fathers name, and that averting the crisis of Trump-children unemployment should take precedence over averting massive corruption of the federal government is one Republicans probably do not relish having to defend.
Giulianis second defense was even more audacious. You have to have some confidence in the integrity of the president. The man is an enormously wealthy man. I dont think theres any real fear or suspicion that hes seeking to enrich himself by becoming president, he laughed. If he wanted to enrich himself, he wouldnt have run for president.
In reality, the world is replete with wealthy men who attained power and used it to enrich themselves. This is the very source of concern about Trumps attack on the norms that prevent American presidents from using their power for self-enrichment. These norms exist precisely because we dont assume a president is immune to temptation. Giulianis argument is that the very fact of Trumps wealth refutes any suspicion of his motives and frees him from any obligation to demonstrate his integrity. His premise is banana republicanism.
At minimum, Democrats could insist that any dealing with Trump be conditioned upon him selling off his family business and placing the assets in a blind trust, and attaching a law requiring presidential candidates to disclose their tax returns. They now have the opportunity to simultaneously expose the hollow joke of Trumps populist image and to defend vital protections against the subordination of the presidency to private gain. They seem ready to choose neither.
Congressional Republicans demonstrated the partisan advantage to be gained by unified opposition. As Mitch McConnell boasted, the public would hold the president and his party alone responsible for how they believed Washington was doing, and their estimation of how Washington was doing would be colored by the degree to which the two parties were getting along. If Democrats support elements of Trumps agenda, it will make Trump more popular and lift the popularity of his party, enabling Republicans to entrench their majorities.
Giving Trump and his party such a valuable gift, and weakening Democrats own chances for regaining power, is worth doing in the case of a vital humanitarian interest. But for some highways? And to give bipartisan cover to what may well have grants to contractors who will be giving kickbacks to Trump and his family? From the standpoint of Democrats like Pelosi and Schumer, the end of the Obama-era legislative boycott and a return to the old Washington, where they can sit with colleagues and hash out funding formulas and hold ribbon-cutting ceremonies, probably feels like sweet relief. They appear to be in the grips of a dangerous myopia.
On the fence. Photo: The Washington Post/The Washington Post/Getty Images
Donald Trump gave his first television interview as president-elect to 60 Minutes on Sunday, giving America its first glimpse of what a Donald Trump presidency might mean for the country.
First, the good news. It appears that Trump, at least for the time being, is sticking with the real friend to the LGBT community persona that he adopted during the election. When asked about the Supreme Court decision that legalized gay marriage nationwide, Trump said that he wouldnt challenge it. Its irrelevant, because its already settled. Its done. Im fine with that, he said. Thats a welcome surprise for Americas gays and lesbians, but a stance that is sure to put him in opposition to many of his supporters, and even his own partys platform.
Speaking of disappointing his supporters, one major theme of the interview was Trumps willingness dare we say eagerness? to walk back some of his campaigns most-touted promises.
For example, the wall. Trump has yet to back down on his assertion that Mexico will foot the bill for a wall on its northern border, but at least now hes making it much more affordable for them. Trump admitted that a wall for the entire border simply didnt make very much sense, and that a fence would surely suffice in places though surely it will be a big, beautiful fence. Lest you think that Trump is going soft on immigration, he still promised to deport all undocumented immigrants with criminal records, which he figures and by figures we mean has made up is between 2 and 3 million people.
Trump also back-pedaled on his campaigns other defining promise: to lock Hillary Clinton up. When asked about the Clintons, Trump changed his tune. I dont want to hurt them, I dont want to hurt them, he said, adding, Theyre good people.
When pushed on the whole special-prosecutor thing, Trump had the perfect response ready: I will give you a very, very good and definitive answer the next time we do 60 Minutes together.
On abortion, Trump was more in-line with his conservative base. The future president insisted that he was still pro-life and reiterated his promise to appoint pro-life justices to the Supreme Court. Though he did have what he seemed to think would be reassuring words for American women. Well, well see what happens. Its got a long way to go, he explained, just so you understand. That has a long, long way to go. And anyway, he said, when Roe. v. Wade is eventually overturned it will just go back to the states, so if you want an abortion all you will have to do is go to another state. Simple.
Donald Trump was perhaps most clear in addressing the spike in hate crimes that has been reported since he was elected. After claiming that he hadnt heard of any hate crimes, he said that even if he had, hes sure that its a very small amount.
Trump did tell his followers that, when it came to hate crimes, Dont do it.
Thats terrible, he explained, cause Im gonna bring this country together.
Trump looked right into the camera and spoke directly to his supporters, telling them: Stop it.
Problem solved.
Alison and Ann Dadow (otherwise known as Alexandria and Anastasia Duval). Photo: Courtesy of Twitter/aguyonclematis
Earlier this year, the news of a fatal car crash involving twin sisters one of whom died made local news in Hawaii and then quickly spiraled into something more sinister, resembling the makings of a Lifetime flick. Murder charges were initially filed in the spring against 37-year-old Alexandria Duval, who survived the wreckage while her twin sister, Anastasia, died after the SUV they were in fell off a 200-foot cliff. The second-degree murder charges were later dropped when a judge said there was insufficient evidence for a case. But in the latest plot twist, prosecutors have again charged Alexandria after a grand jury indicted her in October. She was arrested again on Friday after police found her in Albany, New York, according to IBT.
Witnesses claim the sisters were seen arguing in the car prior to the crash, including plenty of hair-pulling, according to the Maui News. As their apparent argument escalated, the SUV accelerated toward the cliff and then made a sharp turn left, before plunging down into a rocky coastline. Police investigators found that the accelerator was pushed all the way to the floor and that there were no signs it was broken, the Maui News reports. Alexandria, who was in the drivers seat, survived with minor injuries while Anastasia, who was in the back seat, suffered severe head trauma.
The twin sisters were popular yoga instructors, albeit with a shady past. For starters, Alexandria and Anastasia arent their real names: Theyre Alison and Ann Dadow. Prior to owning a yoga studio in Maui, the twins owned studios in New York and in Florida, where they caused some gossip after they unexpectedly and suddenly shut their business down and moved without paying staff or refunding customers. In Utah, where they opened their next studio, they also declared bankruptcy and then changed names before moving once more to Hawaii.
If Alexandria Duvals case goes to trial (bail is currently at $3 million), all bets are on Lifetime getting the rights for the story.
Barneys New Yorks By George ad campaign, 1965. Photo: Courtesy of Barneys New York Photo: Tom Sibley
In 1923, the first Barneys New York store opened in Manhattan thanks to an engagement ring, or lack of it: Businessman Barney Pressman pawned his wifes ring for $500, which helped him lease a 500-square-foot space at Seventh Avenue and West 17th Street. It began as a mens store, selling 40 designer suits with the tagline No Bunk, No Junk, No Imitations.
His son Fred Pressman later transformed the discount house into a high-end department store by 1973, the 60,000 suits in Barneys stock included designs by Pierre Cardin, Christian Dior, and Hubert de Givenchy. The store sold womens clothing three years later, expanding to sell Christian Louboutin, Diane von Furstenberg, Prada, Balenciaga, and others.
The book Barneys New York, edited by Interview magazine editor-at-large Christopher Bollen and out now from Rizzoli New York, chronicles those moments in the stores 93-year history. Three-hundred pages showcase famous ads and window displays alongside memories from celebrities like David Bowie and Sarah Jessica Parker, photographers, and fashion insiders. Click ahead to preview the book.
Barney Pressman stands in front of his menswear store Barneys on West 17th Steet and Seventh Avenue, at the stores opening.
By George ad campaign, 1965.
Cartoon Bouffant Window Display, 1992, featuring Calvin Klein, Vera Wang, and Herve Leger.
Barneys warehouse sale begins, Daily News ad, September 9, 1970.
Photo: Tom Sibley
Window display celebrating 20 years of Christian Louboutin, 2011.
Lypsinka Window Display, 1986, artwork by Albert Sanchez.
Neo Modern Window Display, 2013.
Photo: Barneys New York 2016
Barneys New York, edited by Christopher Bollen, published by Rizzoli New York
Weekend With is an ongoing Instagram series that features people we like photographing places wed like to be. Follow @thecut on Instagram to join in, and tag your photos with #weekendwith when you travel somewhere new.
Shes a self-described general enthusiast and after taking a look at Ana Montiels Instagram, that seems like a good way to identify. With a combination of painting, photography, and all types of graphic design, Montiel documents life in Mexico through a variety of mediums. After spending most of her life in Europe Logrono, Barcelona, and London respectively she decided to embark on a spiritual and artistic quest in her homeland.
Hugo Duran received a degree in visual arts at Escuela Nacional de Pintura Escultura y Grabado La Esmeralda. After a long period in Germany he recently returned to Mexico City. Attracted by the local gastronomic culture, he takes an interest in the professional practice of the culinary arts. Hes currently working on his first restaurant, which will open in 2017.
The OECD Observer online archive takes you on a journey through half a century of public policy and world progress.
Since November 1962, the OECDs experts and leading guests offer insights on the questions facing our member countries with concise and authoritative analysis, and provide our audiences with an excellent opportunity to understand policy debates and consider solutions.
Each edition of the OECD Observer reports on a core theme of the OECDs on-going work, from economics and society through governance, finance, and the environment, and articles are bolstered by tables and graphs.
Great fuel for Hayley's writings. Brand New Eyes was so bitter and so good.
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fuck yeah I love Brand New Eyes
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Mte and from the Parahoy cruise this year she is really bitter about this more than the Farro exit IMO.
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what happened on the cruise?
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I was really hoping that they would come out on the cruise and open with All We Know just as a big f you to jeremy
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mfte
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being married to an attorney, i've learned some very important things: get everything in writing, read your paperwork, and the wheels of justice do creak along.
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it's really not that black and white. like you can't just demand that members sign a paper after each session stating we wrote this song together etc. that would just drive a considerable wedge between band members. i guess he should have been more careful, and asked to see the copyrights that are submitted to the recording associations but those things are usually handled just before the release of an album so it could have been an oversight. either that or he's lying.
Edited at 2016-11-14 08:34 pm (UTC)
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idt he was involved much in writing. apparently in interviews they have joked about his lack of involvement in songwriting? haven't actually seen those interviews tho. so he may be just lying to play up his contributions
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I don't really care for Paramore and I don't know how problematic their ex-bassist is, but still since I don't like Hayley, this is entertaining.
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lol there's always drama for them in between each album i stg. really sucks but hopefully the next album is good and i can get back into stanning mode.
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wait zac is back???!! i'm excited now. though that must be super awkward for josh lmao
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He only recorded the drums for the next album. He seems heavily invested in his solo band HalfNoise to go back to Paramore.
Josh must be extra bitter that he's not back since he's been thirsting it on every single interview for his band.
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Yikes. This band is a mess but i love their songs.
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meeee tooo. i hate how much i like them.
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lol i feel like ex members are constantly suing them
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lol same. everything about this band just sounds messy.
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I don't think the Farro bros ever sued Paramore. That whole thing was just personal with Josh being bitter about Hayley and Chad. No one is touching Hayley's money though. Lol. Jeremy is screwed.
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Jeremy is the only one who has ever sued though...Josh just wrote that messy ass letter and then took it back because it was full of lies because he was bitter.
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this band has always been a mess. i've been a fan since i was like 13/14 though lol :|
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been a fan since 05/06 and i can confirm that they have ALWAYS been messy lmao
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I can't keep up with any of the band members except Hayley. I think it's messed up that the original band members would have been pushed out of their company.
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i think legally she is the only band member lol so you have kept up with them!
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Hunter left. Josh and Zac left. and Jeremy left who was pushed out?
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just release your new album and go on tour puh-puh-please. it's been too long.
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Lol josh came crawling back cause he broke now and needs that paramore $
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Josh is a trump supporter so he can fuck right back off into the hole he crawled out of
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he is? this...doesn't really surprise me at all. which says a lot tbh
Edited at 2016-11-14 05:15 pm (UTC)
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They asked him to come back though...
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And he still gets royalties off their old songs so hes not really hurting for money. Fame maybe.
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Let's not act like Jeremy wasn't petty too. He released this news the day Parahoy (paramore cruise) started on March 2016. He's trying to do as much damage as he can to the band to get his money.
I heard he also wants money for things he named like Parahoy and Monumetour (Paramore/Fall Out Boy tour name). This band will always be messy and it's why I stab them so hard. I dont like happy record and Paramore always delivers with the bitter angry songs. I can't wait for this new album because I know they're going to shred Jeremy apart.
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Yeah tbh something seemed up with Jeremy. I kinda figured there were drugs involved oop
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Really? I thought he might have left because of his child.
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Me too, I still somewhat have a feeling that they kicked him out cuz of drugs. He's so weird on instagram now too with his videos, just makes me think that even more.
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it's why I stab them so hard
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They are always so messy
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lmao mte
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this is kinda sad they've been friends since they were teens
and ngl jeremy leaving hurt me more than when josh left and dragged zach with him
Edited at 2016-11-14 07:59 pm (UTC)
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this band is always messy. i only know that one song.....uh....whatever makes you brag?
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jesy's hair should always look that curly omg
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Their hairstylist hates us, so that will never happen She also looks better with her bangs to the side, but she only wears them like that like once a year.
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like, her portrait shot is STUNNING i am in love
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I love this photoshoot but did leigh not get a solo bedroom shot?
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They keep doing Leigh dirty this era and I'm not pleased
I think she did tho
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mte! she easily looked the best in the fabulous mag shoot but they kept her mostly behind a fence wtf
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I didn't find her solo shot. I also thought it was weird that she didn't have one.
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Happy belated birthday OP! ty for all the work you always put into these < 3
They all look so good omw. I'm so pumped for the album. Two of my friends are seeing them a day after my birthday and I'm mad at myself for not being able to afford a way out there lol.
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Thank you!
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I am completely ready to unstan if they don't even try with Touch here in the US. Like...They have no excuse. It's such a fucking bop.
And happy belated OP!
Edited at 2016-11-14 06:14 pm (UTC)
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Thank you! And I loved Touch, but I have a feeling that Power is gonna be even better and I don't even know why.
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I love Jade's eye makeup like it is in those bed shots, she has such amazing eyes.
Leigh-Anne's body is INSANITY and I'm so jealous.
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it's crazy how much prettier perrie got after she broke up w/ zayn lol
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The glo up was real.
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There are rumors about them going to the pitstops because they went to the one in Australia this weekend, but I doubt it. That would require a lot of planning and a lot of flights and way more time, so I think that they're probably going to a few pitstops in the UK and maybe Europe, but that's it.
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Their team just doesn't care. I mean, they didn't even send SOTME to radios outside of the UK and Australia. But someone from Modest, I think the president of the company or the owner, said the other day that they were gonna focus on them with this album because they want them to have more success internationally and they're gonna be doing a lot of promo in the US next year when they tour with Ariana. I won't believe it until I see it.
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Love Jesy's hair like that so much. Leigh's top is super cute. They're beautiful etc etc
Happy late Birthday, OP! <3
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Three new oilfields in Iran were put in production mode this weekend at an official ceremony, adding more than 220,000 bpd to the countrys total output.
The fields are Yadavaran, North Azadegan, and North Yaranthree of the five fields that Iran shares with Iraq. The launch of North Yaran was reported last week, with initial production seen at 30,000 bpd. North Azadegan will yield 75,000 bpd, and Yadavaran should produce 115,000 bpd.
At the ceremony, President Hassan Rouhani was quoted as saying that Oil production west of Karoun must reach one million barrels per day. This is a realistic goal, and we need investment and technology.
The latest production figures for October for Iran are 4 million bpd, with exports at 2.4 million bpd. The country, which insistedand succeededthat it be exempted from an OPEC-wide production cut, has made no secret of its intentions to ramp up its oil production as quickly as possible.
To this end, Tehran devised a whole new petroleum contract in a bid to lure in foreign energy companies with the know-how and experience to help it in its plans. The first international major to sign on was Frances Total, which will develop the giant South Pars offshore field, together with Chinese CNPC. Related: Is GE Looking To Exit Oilfield Services?
Meanwhile, U.S. president-elect Donald Trump has during his campaign slammed the decision that put an end to the harshest of the sanctions against Iran, saying that he would have negotiated longer sanctions. At the same time, however, Reuters reminds us, Trump has been critical of the sanctions as something that prevents U.S. companies from doing business with Iran.
According to experts, pulling out of the international deal could create tension between Washington and its allies in Europe, for whom Irans return on the international energy scene was welcome news, as the continent seeks to reduce its energy dependence on Russia.
By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com
More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Continental Resources CEO Harold Hamm is on the short list for Secretary of Energy, according to a document obtained by the Associated Press. Along with the energy billionaire, president-elect Donald Trump is also considering venture capitalist Robert Grady and Kevin Cramer, a Republican Congressman from North Dakota.
In the run-up to the presidential elections, Trump had been vocal in his support for the oil and gas industry, and for U.S. energy independence. In fact, the document cited by the AP also includes repealing the Clean Power Plan passed by the Obama administration. According to the AP, the Plan, currently in the lap of the Supreme Court, could be dismissed if the court doesnt rule on it by the time Trump enters the Oval office.
The Clean Power Plan, which aims at reducing carbon emissions from power generation, envisaged the closure of up to 80 GW of coal-fired generating capacities in the U.S. With Trump at the helm, its repealment could buy some time for the troubled coal industry, which has come under the twin fire of environmentalists and low prices.
For the oil and gas industry, the next presidency would also more than likely be beneficial, as during his campaign the Republican candidate pledged to tackle new regulations that, according to the energy business, has stifled expansion.
However, nothing is certain, as S&P Global Ratings managing director Thomas Watters said as quoted by the USA Today. According to Watters, Trumps statements regarding the fossil fuel industry were lacking in detail. Related: How Important Is The Colonial Pipeline?
Appointing Harold Hamm, head of one of the most successful shale oil and gas players in the country, as the head of the Energy Department could certainly be seen as putting ideas into reality. Hamm, whose Continental Resources is a top player in the Bakken, last week criticized drilling regulations that had harmed the oil and gas industry in no small way.
There's so many of these overreaching regulations that's gone on. My goodness. We called it death by a thousand cuts, and that's exactly what it was intended to do, he said as quoted by CNBC.
Continental Resources has done much better than many of its peers thanks to its long-standing presence in the shale patch and the constantly improving efficiencies that the upstream industry is hailing as the only thing thats kept the business going during the price slump.
By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com
More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
The technical committee in charge of hammering out the details of an OPEC-wide production cut will meet for a fresh round of discussions on November 21, according to an energy industry source in Algeria. Previously, the meeting was scheduled for November 25.
The source spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity, also said that the decision on the new date was made by Saudi Energy Minister Khalid Falih and his Algerian counterpart Nouredine Bouterfa. The two met in Algeria over the weekend.
Since the first OPEC meeting in Algeria at the end of September, when a general agreement for a production freeze was achieved, there has been a wave of other meetings between individual OPEC members such as Venezuela and Iran and outsiders such as Russia, on which the deals effectiveness depends. This is the first market-rebalancing initiative undertaken by OPEC since 2008.
With its patience strained by the reluctance of some members to freeze production, most notably Iran, and others insistence that they be included in the exempted group, such as Iraq, Saudi Arabia recently threatened to raise production to 11-12 million bpd.
The situation has been aggravated by record-high OPEC output for October at 33.64 million bpd, which is substantially higher than the band agreed to at the September meeting in Algiers: 32.5-33 million barrels.
Those OPEC members that were exempted, such as Iran, Nigeria and Libya, are ramping up production as fast as they can to make up for market share loss, adding to the glut. So, it is abundantly clear that a simple freeze will not do. Saudi Arabia has said earlier that it was willing to cut its production, but it remains to be seen if all the other OPEC members outside the exempted group will also agree to do so, not to mention Russia, who might not be willing to cut at this stage.
By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com
More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
During a recent visit to Vancouver, British Columbia, George Schneider was inspired by how deeply the city celebrates the diversity of its people.
Then he saw something really incredible.
Bright, rainbow-striped crosswalks, representing the citys support for LGBTQ pride, stand loud and proud at the intersection of Davis and Bute in Vancouvers West End. These visuals really impressed Schneider, owner of This Is It, 418 E. Wells St., and long-time advocate for LGBTQ causes, so much so he decided to bring the idea home to Milwaukee.
On Nov. 5, he pitched an idea on the This Is It Facebook page.
"It was just one of those things where you see something wonderful," said Schneider, "and you think, 'Who can we get to make this happen?' I hoped the Facebook post would inspire conversation and attract people of influence."
Less than a week later, the Facebook post has been liked by nearly 1,000 people, inspiring lively conversation and motivating Schneider to advance the idea further.
"The public has been very supportive," said Schneider, "but the main concern has been vandalism. In the three years since the Vancouver crosswalks have been installed, theyve seen only one or two vandalism attempts. The other major question has been around maintenance, considering traffic, snow plowing and Wisconsin weather conditions. But if the city commits to this project, we know theyll use the right pavement paint and simply repaint it as often as any other crosswalk."
Vancouver is one of many world cities that have installed rainbow crosswalks to commemorate traditional LGBTQ neighborhoods. Theyve popped up in San Francisco; Sacramento; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Seattle; Key West; West Hollywood; Miami Beach; Northampton, MA; Reykjavik; Stockholm; Sydney; Toronto; and more. Other cities, like Vienna, London, Utrecht and Munich, have installed LGBT-friendly pedestrian signals during pride observations.
(PHOTO: WikiCommons/Qaswed)
There is a precedent for decorative street painting in Milwaukee. Three years ago, the East Town Association partnered with the Commissioner of Public Works to honor Jazz in the Park with piano key crosswalks at Kilbourn and Jefferson and Wells and Jefferson. Last year, innovative street art was installed at the intersection of South 2nd Street at Freshwater Way (formerly Pittsburgh Street) to commemorate the Global Water Council and Reed Street Yards developments.
When it comes to LGBTQ monuments, our city hasnt exactly been a leader. Although 18 national landmarks, including the White House, lit up for marriage equality on June 26, 2015, not a single Milwaukee building was illuminated. Some leading Milwaukee companies, including The Pfister Hotel and Northwestern Mutual, lit their facades with rainbow lighting in June 2016 to honor victims of the Club Pulse shootings. Milwaukees City Hall was also proudly decorated with the largest LGBTQ pride flag in Wisconsin for over a week.
Curiously, the U.S. Bank tower, as the tallest building in Milwaukee and one of its most recognizable landmarks, seems to have abandoned its longtime tradition of illuminating the roofline with different colors for holidays, sporting events or national happenings.
Schneider believes its time for a more permanent form of community commemoration.
"With the Milwaukee Streetcar coming to East Town, a rainbow crosswalk would be a wonderful visual for visitors to see and know they are welcome here," said Schneider. "It would carry lasting meaning as a continuous, year-round celebration of our LGBTQ citizens.
"But this is not just about This Is It. Crosswalks would be just as appropriate at the intersection of 2nd and National, in the heart of LGBT nightlife."
George knows a thing or two about LGBTQ visibility. When the Marquette Interchange was completed, he worked with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to light the underpasses with pride colors during PrideFest Milwaukee weekend.
Without any exterior signage or storefront, This Is It was long considered a "secret" or "hidden" bar. That changed in 2013 when Schneider and longtime operator Joe Brehm decided to redecorate the exterior with bright accents and a pride flag.
(PHOTO: George Schneider)
"We had a real problem with people not finding us," explained George. "While there were some who appreciated the speakeasy charm, we wanted to make a change that reflected that times have changed. The community as a whole had embraced us. We became an active member of the East Town Association. We wanted to establish a prominence. When LGBTQ bars are disappearing, sneaking into back doors and staying hidden is not the best course of preserving your future. And now, nobody has to call us to find us."
This Is It, now the longest operating LGBTQ landmark in Wisconsin and one of the longest running gay bars in the United States, will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2018. Management plans to honor the legacies of June Brehm, an early LGBTQ champion who opened the bar in 1968, and her son Joe Brehm, who operated the bar from 1982 until passing away in April 2016.
After a long day of touring tavern properties, June arrived at 418 E. Wells St., took one look around the room and said, "This is it were not going anywhere else." She had many gay friends and sought to create a safe space where they would be treated as well as any other customer. This was a policy June defended with fury. As the legend goes, June became fed up with her business partner complaining about an ever-increasing gay clientele. She pulled out two $20 bills and asked him to tell her which was gay and which was straight. She said, "Until you can tell me the difference, well serve whoever the hell we want."
As we approach a week after the election, the campaign for greater LGBT visibility in Milwaukee is growing. Individuals have already stepped forward offering sponsorship support for the rainbow crosswalk project. What began as a conversation has become a call to action.
Where can this go from here? Sandy Rusch Walton, communications manager for the City of Milwaukee, confirmed Friday that there is currently no formal process for requesting a decorative crosswalk. Since the city has done so few of these, the Commissioner of the Department of Public Works reviews each request on a case-by-case basis.
George is hopeful that the project will move forward.
"Weve got a great city here," said George. "And it would be terrific for Milwaukee to take a stand against the hateful rhetoric of the past year. Crosswalks would say we are all-inclusive and supportive of all our citizens. So, lets do it. Its high time."
From Civil Arab
Donald Trump won. I'm not here to tell you that Bernie would have beaten him, or that Hillary won the popular vote, or that voter suppression laws affected things, or anything like that. In our constitutional system, Donald Trump won the presidency. It's done.
I know why you voted for him. Trump tore down the political establishment that has been neglecting everyday Americans. He tapped into the raw emotions and real anxiety that you feel about your economic futures. He said that you have been forgotten, that the elites were screwing you over. I traveled around the country working for the Sanders' campaign and talking with people who supported Bernie for the same reasons. I get it. Hillary Clinton was part of the problem. I understand.
Trump won fair and square, as far as our system is concerned. I guess it wasn't "rigged" after all. But he won in a way no one has won before. He won while employing fear of Muslims, Latinos, and immigrants. In the last week of his campaign, Trump went to Minnesota and told its citizens that Somali immigrants were hurting their community, turning it into a dangerous place. Minneapolis' mayor (someone who actually lives there), quickly retorted back that Somalis add positively to the city. He won by kicking off his campaign by calling Mexicans "rapists." He proposed banning Muslims from America. He agreed with a suggestion to register Muslim Americans in a national database. He said a judge couldn't be impartial because of his heritage. He went after the parents of a dead Muslim American soldier for being Muslim.
These things happened. And we heard them in a different way than you did.
Now, maybe he was just stoking things up. Maybe he is not an ideologue. Maybe he will change his tune now to embrace unity and diversity. Maybe he is such a narcissist that he needed the attention then and needs the reverence now. And maybe that will turn him into a uniter. Sure, he removed the Muslim ban from his website. Maybe he was being hyperbolic. But my question is this: Do you hope for all the same "maybes" I do?
Maybe Trump is just like our crazy Arab uncles who say a lot of sensical stuff just to conclude it with some conspiratorial insanity. I've heard it before:
"You know, we have to make sure we stand up for our rights and fight for justice. We need to work hard, give back to our communities, and look out for each other. We need to be good Americans. And we wouldn't have all these problems if the Jews hadn't brought down the World Trade Center on 9/11."
That's when I look at him and say, "Ok, but you can't say that last crazy s&!t." Can't you say the same to your crazy uncle Donald?
I saw you at his rallies. You'd say things like, "He didn't really mean it." "You're taking him out of context." "That's not what I heard." Maybe you're right. But as much as you give him the benefit of the doubt, it doesn't matter. It just doesn't matter.
In San Jose, California, a Muslim college student was attacked and choked as her assailant attempted to pull off her hijab. In Buffalo, New York, a building was spray painted with the words "Make America White Again" and a swastika. In Royal Oak, Michigan, middle school students (right, middle school students) chanted "Build That Wall" to their Latino counterparts during lunch. In York, Pennsylvania, high school students marched in the halls, holding a Trump sign and chanting "White Power!"
This stuff is all happening. In just the few days since Trump's (and your) victory.
Let me be clear. Are you all racists? Of course not. That would be ridiculous. And it doesn't make me smart or brave to say as much. (Just like it doesn't make you smart or brave to say that Muslims aren't all terrorists.) But you did vote for a guy who said terribly racist things. Perhaps you didn't celebrate his racist comments, but you did, at best, dismiss them. And whether you like it or not, the KKK is celebrating today. How do you feel about that? Or is that a ridiculous question to ask?
See, racism for us "others" is not episodic. It's the default state of affairs. And more importantly, it's something we can protest, but it's not something we can actually solve. Racism is not a problem FOR white Americans, but it is a problem OF white Americans. I don't expect you to know exactly how I feel. It's tempting, maybe even comforting, to be in a position where you can ignore Trump's bigotry because it won't affect you (and perhaps even benefit you). But you do need to listen for a little while.
I know you might have voted for him because you're scared. Because you don't have a good job, and because you're worried your kids won't either. Because the government is screwed up and rigged. And you think he's the answer. But when you elected him, you empowered this ugliness. You, intentionally or not, allowed some to think it's now acceptable to openly and proudly make the rest of us feel like we don't belong.
In other words, when you voted for Trump, you exchanged your anxiety for ours. And we need to talk about that.
From Consortium News
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton speaking with supporters at a campaign rally in Phoenix, Arizona, March 21, 2016.
(Image by (Photo by Gage Skidmore)) Details DMCA
The election commentary now filling the Internet seems distinctly out of touch. Many analysts are castigating Hillary Clinton for all the things she did wrong, her failure to connect with white workers in the Rust Belt, her inability to sufficiently rally blacks, and so on. Or they're criticizing the American people for falling for a racist, sexist know-nothing like Donald Trump.
But these critics are ignoring the elephant in the parlor. The simple fact is that Americans didn't elect Trump. An ancient relic known as the Electoral College did. For better or worse, a plurality of the people voted for Hillary Clinton.
Indeed, her margin of victory is turning out to be bigger than many imagined. The latest count by the Associated Press has her ahead by about a half million popular votes, or Clinton's 48 percent to Trump's 47 percent. That's about the same as George W. Bush's losingmargin in 2000 before a judicial coup d'e'tat propelled him into office.
But Nate Cohen of The New York Times's "Upshot" team is predicting that by the time all mail-in, absentee, and provisional ballots are counted, it will end up even bigger, i.e., as high as 2.2 million, or 1.7 percent. That's 10 times John F. Kennedy's margin of victory in 1960 and four times Richard Nixon's in 1968.
If true, then Clinton will not only have won in terms of the popular vote, she will have won big (or as Trump might say "bigly" or "big league" depending on how you decipher one of his favorite expressions). Yet thanks to an obscure constitutional quirk, she's not the one going to the White House. Instead, an orange-haired reality TV star is so that he possibly can do to the United States what he did to his own real-estate empire, i.e., drive it into bankruptcy.
A Failure of Democracy
Three things seem clear as a consequence. One is that America has a major problem on its hands. After all, this is the second time in 16 years that the people (or at least a plurality of the people) have been robbed of their choice for president. And both times political democracy has suffered a major body blow as a consequence. How much more abuse the democratic process can take without succumbing entirely is now open to question.
A second thing is that no one has foggiest idea how to fix it. A third is that the ruling elite and its minions in the chattering classes don't give a damn because, in contrast to the population at large, they benefit from the breakdown (it's much easier to control a demoralized population that has lost faith in the value of democracy) and are therefore eager to sweep the entire issue under the rug. So let's take these issues on one at a time and see where they lead.
First, the problem. The Electoral College is a very Eighteenth-Century affair, an example of what happens when New World pragmatism combines with the Age of Reason's love affair with ancient Rome. Faced with a tentative new republic in which "democracy" tended to be limited, local and individualist, the Framers concluded that a special body of elite electors was needed to hold the country together and ensure that a solid leader like George Washington took the reins.
The decision may not have been unreasonable given the exigencies of the day. (The proposed Constitution was a radical departure from the Articles of Confederation, which made the states supreme. The Constitution shifted sovereignty to "We the People," but the states, especially the small ones, still wanted a significant role in the new hybrid system.)
Unexpected Problems
But 230 years later, the device has turned out to have unexpected consequences. By awarding one vote for every senator and representative that a state sends to Washington, it triples the clout of demographic Lilliputians like Wyoming (population 586,107, according to the most recent estimate) at the expense of multi-racial giants like California (population 39.1 million). By forcing presidential candidates to concentrate on a handful of swing states, it sidelines Democratic strongholds like California or New York along with Republican bastions such as Indiana or the Deep South.
It also effectively cancels out millions of votes. Since Clinton carried New York State by 59 percent, it means that out of the 4.1 million people who voted for her, some 632,000 might just as well have stayed home. Since she carried California by 61 percent, more than a million Golden State residents could have done the same.
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From Counterpunch
One of the most confounding aspects of Donald Trump's election as 45th President of the United States is that in the space of a year -- indeed less than a year -- a man with zero political experience has destroyed two of America's most entrenched political dynasties: Bush and Clinton.
Just pause on this for a moment, and place it in the context of someone who when he first appeared on the political stage as a candidate for the Republican nomination was met with ridicule and scorn. Consequently, a mainstream media and liberal commentators for whom politics is an exclusive club, the preserve of a select group of blessed people who belong to this club as if by divine right, have just been delivered one almighty slap-down.
The sense of entitlement that emanated from the Clinton campaign during this election was astonishing to behold. Hillary Clinton emitted the demeanour of a woman approaching a coronation rather than an election, disdaining not only Donald Trump but also his supporters, whom she infamously described as "deplorables." This was her undoing.
Regardless of the attempt to paint her as someone in touch with the suffering and pain of the millions of Americans who have long been denied a seat at the banquet of US democracy, she came over as the very embodiment of a machine politician, a candidate whose credibility and character was irredeemably tainted by her connections to Wall Street, big business, the Saudis, George Soros, etc.
This is why it is not so much that Donald Trump won this election as that Hillary Clinton and her campaign lost. Here the Democratic Party only has itself to blame. Bernie Sanders offered a far more potent challenge to the Trump phenomenon, both because he did not carry any of the baggage that Clinton brought to the election and also -- perhaps more importantly -- he represented a far sharper ideological counterweight to Trump.
One of the most salient consequences of the 2008 global economic crash, which ushered in the worst crisis within capitalism since the 1930s, has been the collapse of the political center ground and with it the dominance of the liberal order.
In this respect it is just as Karl Marx opined in his Communist Manifesto, "All that is solid melts into air, all that is holy is profaned, and man is at last compelled to face with sober senses his real conditions of life..."
The analogy that best describes this process is a battlefield after the smoke has cleared to reveal the ideological right on one side and its left wing counterpart on the other, ready to go to war over the right to shape the future. And as Brexit in the UK and now Trump's electoral victory in the US leaves no doubt, this is a struggle currently being won by the right.
This is not to suggest the struggle is completely over however. On the contrary the political, social, economic, and constitutional crisis ushered in by Brexit proves that there remains some distance to travel before the matter is settled in Britain, while Trump's election will inevitably give rise to strong opposition in the streets, perhaps even sparking a much needed revival of the left across the US, which based on the success of the Sanders campaign is far from dead.
Focusing in on Donald Trump and based on statements he made in the course of his campaign, it is interesting to observe that among the many places where you will find the most grievously disappointed people in response to his victory are NATO headquarters in Brussels and ISIS and Nusra headquarters in Syria. It is evidence of the hitherto insurmountable contradiction that has lain at the heart of Washington's geopolitical priorities and strategy these past few years. Trump, in contrast, laid it out very simply when he said, "Russia is killing ISIS. Assad is killing ISIS. I think it would be a good idea to get along with Russia."
This being said, the acid test is what he does rather than what he has said, which is why it remains far too soon to be complacent in welcoming a new dawn in Washington's relations with Russia or the rest of the world. Trump also said some harsh things about China and Iran during his election campaign, which taken in conjunction with the fact that as President he immediately becomes the CEO of an empire that is no longer sustainable, requires us to exercise caution rather than celebration at this stage.
Domestically, let us not delude ourselves. Trump has given rise to the recrudescence of nativism, xenophobia, and anti-immigrant sentiment across America, in much the same way Brexit has done in the UK. The logical conclusion of this path is social divisions and the erosion of social cohesion. Whether people like it or not globalization has given rise to multicultural societies across the West, with both constituting two sides of the same coin. In other words people cannot expect to enjoy the benefits of the free movement of capital without the free movement of people.
And here we get to the heart of the matter. Donald Trump and Brexit are symptoms of the rise of anti-politics in response to the massive inequality that has engulfed both British and US society in recent years. Far too much wealth is now owned by far two few, with the result that people are angry and in no mind to continue to support a status quo widely regarded as corrupt and hopelessly compromised by its support for a corporate elite and vested interests.
The world has changed, perhaps utterly.
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First CPEC cargo left for its destination
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif at a grand opening ceremony at the Gwadar port on Sunday marked the operationalisation and opening of trade activities at the port, a key project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
"We will leave no stone unturned in ensuring the CPEC and all the projects under its umbrella are materialised within the given time," he said. "This idea was conceived only two years ago, and this day marks the breaking of the dawn of a new era."
"CPEC is for entire Pakistan and no region or province will be left out of it," the PM said, in an apparent attempt at putting to bed the reservations of smaller provinces that claim the project doesn't benefit them. "The newly-constructed roads in Balochistan have opened up new areas that were inaccessible and deprived of development... and have brought peace to a volatile region," the premier said.
"The government of Balochistan and the Army have been successful in making the local population a stakeholder in development... Development can never be sustainable if it creates islands of properity. It must reach the lives of those who have remained mired in a trap of poverty and backwardness," he said.
The One Belt-One Road project integrates development of various regions, he said, adding that it integrates with Pakistan's Vision 2025 which seeks to transform Pakistan into a hub of trade and commerce, harnessing its geo-strategic location into a geo-economic advantage.
"The government has spent Rs49 billion on these projects. Next year, projects worth Rs200bn will be launched," the PM said. CPEC will help integrate South Asia, China and Central Asia and offer opportunities for people in this region, and investors all over the world, he said.
Director General Inter-Services Public Relations Asim Bajwa earlier tweeted that the first mega trade convoy of containers had arrived from China and will be loaded onto ships.
The trade convoy departed from Kashgar, China, on Oct 29, entered Pakistan on Oct 30 and reached Gwadar on Nov 12. PM Nawaz termed the arrival of the convoy 'a watershed event'.
Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Sun Weidong told the ceremony today: "This the first time that a trade convoy successfully passed through the western part of Pakistan from the north to the south. It proves the connectivity of the local roads and the realisation of the concept of one corridor with multiple passages."
"This is the first time that the Gwadar port is exporting containers to overseas destinations. It proves the port has restored it designed handling capacity," he said. "This is also the first time that Pakistan and China co-organised a trade convoy through Pakistan to Gwadar port."
Balochistan Chief Minister (CM) Nawab Sanaullah Zehri addressing the ceremony said, "Due to the government's hectic efforts, the active participation of our security forces and all-out cooperation fo the people of Balochistan, we have succeeded in curbing anti-state elements, and the law and order situation has improved."
Zehri's claims come a day after a brutal attack on a shrine in Balochistan's Khuzdar area claimed at least 52 lives and injured over 100 other people.
Executives from Sino Trans, a Chinese logistics company, also attended the ceremony as well as ministers for defence and planning and a number of politicians, especially from Balochistan.
This is the largest collection of VIPs hosted by Gwadar since it witnessed the signing of the 2009 National Finance Commission Award.
Amid tight security and a stream of arriving VIPs, the first consignment of cargoes from China to depart from the Pakistani port arrived at Gwadar on Saturday.
All day long, a stream of trucks of different sizes lined up outside the port to be individually scanned before being ushered in.
The convoys that joined up in Quetta took diverse routes. One convoy came from China, carrying almost 150 containers which were then shifted onto Pakistani trucks at the Sust border crossing south of Khunjerab in the Northern Areas.
At Jund, it was met by another convoy that originated in Sialkot with 50 trucks carrying around 100 containers and together the whole convoy crossed the Indus river to Kohat where they stayed the night before moving on to Dera Ismail Khan, Zhob and then Quetta, where it stopped for another night.
They were joined by a third convoy originating in Lahore and Sialkot, consisting of 45 trucks carrying approximately 90 containers that moved south to Sukkur, then west on the N65 highway past Sibi and Mastung before joining their companions in Quetta.
The containers carry cargoes ranging from rice and cotton, to Chinese machinery, some of which is destined for Gwadar for the ongoing development works here, and the rest going abroad.
Around Rs35 billion has been spent on road infrastructure for the CPEC projects in Balochistan alone since 2014, says the FWO chief. He said he pushed for the convoys to take these routes to show that the road infrastructure built during this time is fully capable of handling cargo consignments of this size.
Two ships Al Hussain Zanzibar and Cosco Wellington are berthed at Gwadar to receive the cargoes. They are setting sail for ports in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the UAE and the EU late on Sunday, according to information provided by the FWO.
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Of course. You would have to be be barking mad to want to bring this rabble to NZ. But then socialists are mad by definition. It's not as if we don't have...
About This Quiz Celebrate the festive spring holiday Easter by taking this quiz, which will set you straight on when it is observed, why it exists and most importantly which flavor jelly bean everyone is going to try to steal from your Easter basket.
(A) An ovule inserted with a pollen tube that can fertilize. Ovule enlargement is observed upon fertilization. (B) An ovule without insertion of a pollen tube. Without insertion of a pollen tube, ovule enlargement is not observed. (C) An ovule inserted with a pollen tube that cannot fertilize. Even though fertilization has not occurred, ovule enlargement is observed due to release of PTCs into the ovule. Upon analyzing 100 ovules inserted with pollen tubes that cannot fertilize, the ovule size was on average, 2.5 times larger relative to ovules without insertion of a pollen tube. Credit: ITbM, Nagoya University
Plant biologists at ITbM have made a key discovery that the contents in pollen tubes alone can increase the size of seeds, without the need for fertilization. This finding may be useful in developing crops, which can develop seeds under unfavorable environmental conditions where fertilization does not readily occur.
Plant biologists at ITbM, Nagoya University, have made a key discovery that the contents in pollen tubes alone can increase the size of seeds, without the need for fertilization. This new plant phenomenon, named as POEM (pollen tube-dependent ovule enlargement morphology), shows that even in the absence of fertilization (fusion of sperm and egg cells), release of the pollen tube content (PTC) to the ovule leads to enlargement of the ovule and seed coat formation. This finding may be useful in developing crops, which can develop seeds under unfavorable environmental conditions where fertilization does not readily occur.
Nagoya, Japan Dr. Ryushiro Kasahara, Professor Tetsuya Higashiyama of the Institute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM) of Nagoya University and their colleagues have reported in Science Advances, on the discovery of a new plant phenomenon where the pollen tube contents (PTCs) trigger seed enlargement in the absence of fertilization.
Upon pollination, pollen grows pollen tubes inside the pistil, in order to deliver its sperm cells (male) to the egg cells (female) located inside the ovules. Although PTCs have been known to exist inside the pollen tube along with sperm cells, its actual function has been unknown for a long time.
In animals, the function of the seminal fluid (containing sperm cells), which is in a similar position to PTCs in plants, has been well studied. Research in mice shows that when a particular protein is removed from the seminal fluid, the sperm cell is unable to induce fertilization, thus indicating that the seminal fluid is essential for fertilization to occur in animals.
Ryushiro Kasahara, a leader of this research, decided to look into the function of PTCs to see if it has a similar function to the seminal fluid in animals. He conducted hybridization experiments using mutants of a model plant Arabidopsis thaliana that can release PTCs into the ovule even when fertilization does not occur.
(A) An ovule inserted with a pollen tube that can fertilize. Seed coat formation is observed upon fertilization. (B) An ovule without insertion of a pollen tube. No seed coat formation is observed in the absence of pollen tube insertion. (C) An ovule inserted with a pollen tube that cannot fertilize. Even though fertilization has not occurred, seed coat formation is observed due to release of PTC into the ovule. Credit: ITbM, Nagoya University
As a result, his group found that ovules subjected to PTCs without fertilization lead to cell division, along with enlargement of the seed. In addition, formation of the seed coat and endosperm was also observed. For years, it has been considered that ovule enlargement only occurs upon fertilization. Nevertheless, Kasahara's new discoveries show that PTCs alone can induce ovule enlargement, which breaks the common principle that fertilization is essential for seed development.
"The most difficult part of this research was to make sure that fertilization does not occur in order to identify the function of PTCs," says Kasahara. "I was extremely excited when I saw that PTCs alone led to seed development without fertilization."
Reproduction in plants starts from pollination on the pistil, followed by pollen tube guidance, which eventually leads to fertilization. This research demonstrates the existence of an unexplored step between pollen tube guidance and fertilization, where PTCs have a major role in seed development.
In crops, such as rice, corn and wheat, the parts that we mainly eat are the endosperm in the seed. By further elucidation on the function of the PTCs, as well as development of new technology to apply PTCs to plants, it may become possible to produce crops that can form the endosperm without fertilization. As the fertilization rate becomes relatively low under unfavorable or unusual weather conditions (e.g. typhoon and high temperatures) during the flowering season, this has drastic effects on crop production. If endosperms can form by application of the key molecules in PTCs, without the need for fertilization, this may be useful in producing crops that are unaffected by climate conditions.
Initially, Kasahara and his colleagues investigated what kind of genes is expressed in ovules that have accepted PTCs, by analyzing the genes in Arabidopsis thaliana. They carried out experiments using mutants that do not necessarily fertilize upon pollination.
"We found that ovules that have accepted PTCs, undergone fertilization and have developed an embryo and endosperm, show expression of genes that are essential for embryo and endosperm formation," explains Kasahara. "On the other hand, ovules that have accepted PTCs but have not been fertilized did not show gene expression of the embryo and the endosperm. We were surprised to see that this unfertilized ovule showed expression of genes that induce cell expansion and division, as well as seed coat formation."
a) Growth of pollen tube towards the ovule. Sperm cells exist at the tip of the tube. Pollen tube contents (PTC) are the liquid part of the pollen tube, shown in yellow. b) Upon pollination to the pistil, the pollen tube grows from pollen towards the ovule. Once the pollen tube reaches the ovule, the tube bursts releasing PTCs and two sperm cells that can fertilize the egg cell and the central cell. Yellow lines on the ovule after fertilization (seed) in figure 1. a) show the pathway taken by the pollen tube. c) A seed after fertilization. After fertilization, the egg cell and central cell develop into the embryo and the endosperm, respectively. Simultaneously, the ovule develops a seed coat. Credit: ITbM, Nagoya University
From the results of gene expression, Kasahara hypothesized that the division and enlargement of ovules, as well as seed coat formation can occur without fertilization. Therefore, he decided to look into the gene expression of ovules.
"We found that ovules with the insertion of pollen tubes but without fertilization are on average 2.5 times larger that those without the insertion of pollen tubes. The unfertilized ovules with pollen tube insertion also showed seed coat formation," says Kasahara. "This new observation overturns the common principle that ovules need to fertilize for enlargement to occur."
Kasahara was then able to confirm through further experiments that PTCs were responsible for ovule enlargement. By using mutants where pollen tubes burst at a certain rate and release PTCs, they compared to ratio of ovules that increased in size without fertilization, to the ovules where the pollen tube ruptures and releases PTCs.
"We were delighted to see that the percentage of ovules that become enlarged and the percentage of ovules accepting PTCs showed a good match," describes Kasahara. "This shows evidence that PTCs contribute to ovule enlargement." Kasahara named this new phenomenon, POEM, which stands for "pollen tube dependent ovule enlargement morphology".
Upon using a mutant that generates an endosperm without fertilization, the rate of autonomous endosperm formation was below 3% without PTCs. On the other hand, when PTCs were released into the ovule, 50% of the ovules autonomously formed an endosperm. This indicates that PTCs are able to increase the probability of endosperm formation in ovules.
"We are currently interested in what kind of molecules in the PTCs are responsible for triggering POEM," says Kasahara. "We hope we can find key molecules, which can be constantly expressed in ovules so that the endosperm can be formed without fertilization. This is expected to be highly useful for producing crops in various climates, where fertilization does not readily occur."
More information: R. D. Kasahara et al. Pollen tube contents initiate ovule enlargement and enhance seed coat development without fertilization, Science Advances (2016). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.1600554 Journal information: Science Advances
SLU geologists John Encarnacion, Ph.D., and Timothy Keenan. Credit: Saint Louis University
Saint Louis University researchers report new information about conditions that can cause the Earth's tectonic plates to sink into the Earth.
In a paper published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) Saint Louis University researchers report new information about conditions that can cause the earth's tectonic plates to sink into the earth.
John Encarnacion, Ph.D., professor of earth and atmospheric sciences at SLU, and Timothy Keenan, a graduate student, are experts in tectonics and hard rock geology, and use geochemistry and geochronology coupled with field observations to study tectonic plate movement.
"A plate, by definition, has a rigidity to it. It is stiff and behaves as a unit. We are on the North American Plate and so we're moving roughly westward together about an inch a year," Encarnacion said. "But when I think about what causes most plates to move, I think about a wet towel in a pool. Most plates are moving because they are sinking into the Earth like a towel laid down on a pool will start to sink dragging the rest of the towel down into the water."
Plates move, on average, an inch or two a year. The fastest plate moves at about four inches a year and the slowest isn't moving much at all. Plate motions are the main cause of earthquakes, and seismologists and geologists study the details of plate motions to make more accurate predictions of their likelihood.
"Whenever scientists can show how something that is unexpected might have actually happened, it helps to paint a more accurate picture of how the Earth behaves," Encarnacion said. "And a more accurate picture of large-scale Earth processes can help us better understand earthquakes and volcanoes, as well as the origin and locations of mineral deposits, many of which are the effects and products of large-scale plate motions."
Plate movement affects our lives in other ways, too: It recently was reported that Australia needs to redraw its maps due to plate motion. Australia is moving relatively quickly northwards, and so over many decades it has traveled several feet, causing GPS locations to be significantly misaligned.
Subduction, the process by which tectonic plates sink into the earth's mantle, is a fundamental tectonic process on earth, and yet the question of where and how new subduction zones form remains a matter of debate. Subduction is the main reason tectonic plates move.
The SLU geologists' research takes them out into the field to study rocks and sample them before taking them back to the lab to be studied in more detail.
Their work involves geological mapping: looking at rocks, identifying them, plotting them on a map and figuring out how they formed and what has happened to them after they form. Researchers date rock samples and look at their chemistry to learn about the specific conditions where an ancient rock formed, such as if a volcanic rock formed in a volcanic island like Hawaii or on the deep ocean floor.
In this study, Keenan and Encarnacion traveled to the Philippines to study plates in that region. They found that a divergent plate boundary, where two plates move apart, was forcefully and rapidly turned into a convergent boundary where one plate eventually began subducting.
This is surprising because although the plate material at a divergent boundary is weak, it is also buoyant and resists subduction. The research findings suggest that buoyant but weak plate material at a divergent boundary can be forced to converge until eventually older and denser plate material enters the nascent subduction zone, which then becomes self-sustaining.
"We think that the subduction zone we studied was actually forced to start because of the collision of India with Asia. India was once separated from Asia, but it slowly drifted northwards eventually colliding with Asia. The collision pushed out large chunks of Asia to the southeast. That push, we think, pushed all the way out into the ocean and triggered the start of a new subduction zone."
Their finding supports a new model for how plates can begin to sink: "Places where plates move apart can be pushed together to start subduction."
The SLU researchers now want to learn if their model applies to other tectonic plates.
"How common was this forced initiation of a subduction zone that we think happened in the Philippines?" Encarnacion said. "I would like to see work on other ancient subduction zones to see whether our model applies to them as well."
More information: Timothy E. Keenan et al, Rapid conversion of an oceanic spreading center to a subduction zone inferred from high-precision geochronology, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2016). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1609999113 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
The Canadian boreal forest is dominated by the 10-year snowshoe hare cycle. Credit: University of Toronto Scarborough
Rudy Boonstra has been doing field research in Canada's north for more than 40 years.
Working mostly out of the Arctic Institute's Kluane Lake Research Station in Yukon, the U of T Scarborough Biology Professor has become intimately familiar with Canada's vast and unique boreal forest ecosystem.
But it was during a trip to Finland in the mid-1990s to help a colleague with field research that he began to think long and hard about why the boreal forest there differed so dramatically from its Canadian cousin. This difference was crystallized by follow-up trips to Norway.
"Superficially they look the same. Both are dominated by coniferous trees with similar low density deciduous trees like aspen. But that's where the similarities end," he says.
The real differences are most obvious on the ground, notes Boonstra. In Canada, the ground is dominated by tall shrubs like willow and birch but in the Northwestern European forests found in Norway, Finland and Sweden the ground is dominated by dwarf shrubs like bilberry.
"The reason for the difference comes down to different climates," he says.
It also goes without saying that global warming will have an effect on vegetation and the species that rely on the boreal forest, adds Boonstra.
"The data is still coming in but there are indications that this ecosystem is shifting and it could potentially be a massive shift," he says, pointing to changes in the global carbon cycle and the predator/prey dynamics.
Boreal forest covers an incredible 50 per cent of Canada's land mass and has evolved quite differently from the boreal forests of Northwestern Europe say Boonstra, who co-authored a book on Canada's boreal forest ecosystem.
The winters in the Canadian boreal forest are drier and 15 to 20C colder, with snow that is soft and shallow. In Northwestern Europe the winter is more mild and wet by comparison with deep snow that packs harder. The milder European winters are driven mainly by westerly winds from North America that dip into the Caribbean and carry warm air across the Atlantic.
The difference in climate means the plant and animal species in both forests have evolved along two very different paths. The Canadian system is dominated by the extreme cold tolerant tall shrubs and the 10-year snowshoe hare and Canadian lynx cycle
On the other hand, the forests in Northwestern Europe are dominated by cold intolerant dwarf shrubs and a three to four-year cycle of small rodent and weasels that live below the snow. It also has a higher density of larger animals like Moose.
"Predators have evolved to the prey, and the prey have evolved to the vegetation in both places," adds Boonstra.
Boonstra and his colleagues looked at a host of other potential factors to explain the differences between these forests including human activity, density of large mammals and other predators, but the deciding factor came down to climate.
The research, which included collaboration from researchers across Canada and Norway, was published in the journal BioScience and received funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and the Norwegian Science Council.
Boreal forests are important ecological zones because they cover 11 per cent of the Earth's total land surface and make up 25 per cent of the Earth's closed canopy forests, which are continuous, uninterrupted forest systems. These forests play a key role in the global carbon cycle that allows the Earth to be capable of sustaining life.
"There's no question that a shift in snow consistency and temperature will impact this immense ecosystem," adds Boonstra.
Physicists Nigel Goldenfeld (left) and Chi Xue, at the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Credit: Kathryn Faith.
Nature is full of parasitesorganisms that flourish and proliferate at the expense of another species. Surprisingly, these same competing roles of parasite and host can be found in the microscopic molecular world of the cell. A new study by two Illinois researchers has demonstrated that dynamic elements within the human genome interact with each other in a way that strongly resembles the patterns seen in populations of predators and prey.
The findings, published in Physical Review Letters by physicists Chi Xue and Nigel Goldenfeld, are an important step toward understanding the complex ways that genomes change over the lifetime of individual organisms, and how they evolve over generations.
"These are genes that are active and are doing genome editing in real time in living cells, and this is a start of trying to really understand them in much more detail than has been done before," said Goldenfeld, who leads the Biocomplexity research theme at the Carl R. Woese Institute for Universal Biology (IGB). "This is helping us understand the evolution of complexity and the evolution of genomes."
The study was supported by Center for the Physics of Living Cells, a Physics Frontiers Center at Illinois supported by the National Science Foundation, and the NASA Astrobiology Institute for Universal Biology at Illinois, which Goldenfeld directs.
Goldenfeld and Xue embarked on this work because of their interest in transposons, small regions of DNA that can move themselves from one part of the genome to another during the lifetime of a cella capability that has earned them the name "jumping genes." Collectively, various types of transposons make up almost half of the human genome. When they move around, they may create mutations in or alter the activity of a functional gene; transposons can therefore create new genetic profiles in a population for natural selection to act on, in either a positive or negative way.
The Illinois researchers wanted to learn more about how evolution works on this level, the level of whole organisms, by looking at the metaphorical ecosystem of the human genome. In this view, the physical structure of the DNA that makes up the genome acts like an environment, in which two types of transposons, long interspersed nuclear elements (LINEs) and short interspersed nuclear elements (SINEs), have a competitive relationship with one another. In order to replicate, SINEs steal the molecular machinery that LINEs use to copy themselves, somewhat like a cuckoo bird tricks other birds into raising her chicks for her while abandoning their own.
With help from Oleg Simakov, a researcher at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Xue and Goldenfeld focused on the biology of L1 elements and Alu elements, respectively common types of LINEs and SINEs in the human genome.
The researchers adopted methods from modern statistical physics and modeled the interaction between Alu and L1 elements mathematically as a stochastic processa process created from chance interactions. This method has been successfully applied in ecology to describe predator-prey interactions; Xue and Goldenfeld simulated the movements of transposons within the human genome with the same mathematical method. Their models included a detailed accounting for how Alu elements steal the molecular machinery L1 elements use to copy themselves.
Xue and Goldenfeld's results predicted that populations of LINE and SINE elements in the genome are expected to oscillate the way those of, for example, wolves and rabbits might.
"We realized that the transposons' interaction actually was pretty much like the predator-prey interaction in ecology," said Xue. "We came up with the idea, why don't we apply the same idea of predator-prey dynamics . . .we expected to see the oscillations we see in the predator-prey model. So we first did the simulation and we saw the oscillations we expected, and we got really excited."
In other words, too many SINEs and the LINEs start to suffer, and soon there are not enough for all the SINEs to exploit. SINEs start to suffer, and the LINEs make a come-back. Xue and Goldenfeld's model made the surprising prediction that these oscillations occur over a timescale that is longer than the human lifespanwaves of Alu elements and L1 elements pushing and pulling at each other in slow motion across generations of the human genomes that carry them.
"The most enlightening aspect of the study for me was the fact that we could really compute the timescales, and see that it is possible that we could observe these things," said Goldenfeld. "We have a prediction for what happens in single cells, and we may be able to actually do an experiment to observe these things, though the period is longer than the lifetime of a single cell."
In a related study, Goldenfeld's laboratory has collaborated with the laboratory of fellow physicist and IGB Biocomplexity research theme member Thomas Kuhlman to visualize the movements of transposons within the genomes of living cells. Using this type of innovative technology, and by studying the history of molecular evolution in other species, Goldenfeld and Xue hope to test some of the predictions made by their model and continue to gain insight into the dynamic world of the genome.
More information: Chi Xue et al, Stochastic Predator-Prey Dynamics of Transposons in the Human Genome, Physical Review Letters (2016). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.117.208101 Journal information: Physical Review Letters
Researchers will survey a new site Little Dome C, which is located 50 kms away from the French-Italian station of Concordia, based at Dome C. Credit: British Antarctic Survey
A team of European scientists heads to East Antarctica this month to locate the oldest ice on Earth. The team is part of an EU-funded research consortium from ten European countries whose aim is to search for a suitable site to drill an ice core to capture 1.5 million years of Earth's climate history. The project, Beyond EPICA Oldest Ice (BE-OI), will answer important questions about big shifts in the past record of Earth's climate.
By extracting air from the tiny bubbles trapped in the ice, researchers will understand how the atmosphere's composition has changed over time.
Dr Robert Mulvaney, ice core scientist from British Antarctic Survey (BAS), the UK partner in Beyond EPICA Oldest Ice, and involved in the site survey explains:
"In the early 2000s we drilled an ice core from Antarctica that gave us a climate record going back 800,000 years. Now we want to double the length of that record to investigate an important shift in Earth's climate around one million years ago, when the planet's climate cycle between cold glacial conditions and warmer interludes changed from being dominated by a 41,000-year pattern to a 100,000 year cycle."
Understanding what controlled this shift in the Earth's glacial cycles, and whether increasing carbon dioxide levels played a part, along with factors such as changes in the Earth's rotational tilt, will help scientists to understand better how ice sheets will behave as the world warms.
Dr Mulvaney continues: "We need to understand the interaction between the Earth's atmosphere and climate in very different conditions in the past if we are to be sure we can predict the future climate response to increasing greenhouse gases. There is no other place on Earth that retains such a long a record of the past atmosphere other than the Antarctic ice sheet, and it is tremendously exciting to be embarking now on the journey to recover this record."
Dr Robert Mulvaney from BAS is involved in the site survey at Little Dome C. Credit: British Antarctic Survey
The team will survey several sites at and near Little Dome C just 50 kms from the previous EPICA drill site located at the French-Italian research station Dome Concordia in East Antarctica using radar towed behind a snow tractor, and drilling test boreholes, so they can determine the suitability of the site and the terrain at the bedrock beneath the ice.
The researchers, together with other BE-OI partners, will investigate the ice sheet's thickness, its physical properties and the topography of the underlying bedrock at two different sites (Dome C and on the East Antarctic plateau at Dome F). Ice thickness is just a first indicator of past ice, as different snow accumulation, ice flow behaviour and the temperature at the bottom determine whether old ice remains near the base of the ice sheet.
"During previous studies we determined key regions where we expect the oldest continuous ice record on Earth" says Prof Olaf Eisen, project coordinator and glaciologist at the Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI). "Now we have to prove this and it is important that we learn as much as possible about deposition processes and the composition of the ice", he explains.
Once a suitable drilling site is found, scientists will embark on a second phase multi-year project to extract an ice core from the surface to the bed at nearly 3km depth using traditional ice core drilling technology. Laboratories across Europe will analyse this ice to determine how the climate and the atmosphere have interacted over the past 1.5 million years.
Dome C (75.10'S, 123.35'E) is one of the most hostile environments on the planet, and average annual temperatures are below -54 degrees Celsius. The deep field party at Little Dome C, supported by those at Concordia Station, will travel hundreds of kilometres by tractor and skidoo over featureless snow where blizzards are common.
Credit: University of Maryland
A major breakthrough in the cloning of a resistance gene to eliminate wheat scaba widespread disease responsible for drastic reductions in crop yield as well as millions of dollars in annual losses worldwidehas been achieved by a multi-institutional team of researchers including Nidhi Rawat, an assistant professor in the University of Maryland's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and Michael O. Pumphrey, associate professor in Washington State University's Crop and Soil Sciences Department, who together performed most of the experimental work.
This discovery has broad implications for the future as a promising source of resistance to not only wheat scab, but a variety of similar host plants affected by the fungal pathogen known as Fusarium graminearum. Ultimately, once the nature of gene action is known, the findings can be applied to control other Fusarium species which causes rot in cucurbit, tomato and potato to name a few.
Fusarium graminearum produces a toxin that makes the infected crop unfit for human and animal consumption. James Anderson, a professor of wheat breeding and genetics at the University of Minnesota, said there are frequent epidemics of the disease reported in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia and South America.
Historically, wheat scabotherwise known as Fusarium Head Blighthas been a very difficult problem to solve. 20 years of research that includes input from scientists in China and several American Universities has been slow to produce results, with resistance only found in a select group of local Chinese plants. Until now, nothing was known about the Fhb1 gene and its ability to provide broad-spectrum resistance. The multi-University team, which also included researchers from Kansas State University and the University of Minnesota, used sophisticated wheat genome sequencing techniques to isolate the gene. Now that the DNA source of the resistance is known, processes that would take years to replicate can be done in much quicker fashion in a diagnostics lab. The team recently published their work in Nature Genetics.
"After quite a long research process into Fusarium Head Blight, we are thrilled to uncover a solution to help the international farming community combat this devastating disease," says Dr. Rawat. "Fhb1 is very special, as only a few broad-spectrum resistance genes have been cloned so far that provide multi-pathogen resistance. The durability and applicability of Fhb1 puts it in a category all to itself and we must learn how to harness it appropriately."
Moving forward, Rawat and her colleagues will work towards utilizing Fhb1 for solving a multitude of diseases caused by the pathogen. Research will involve optimizing the transfer of this resistance to other crops infected by Fusarium species through breeding, transgenic, cis-genic, and genome editing techniques.
More information: Nidhi Rawat et al. Wheat Fhb1 encodes a chimeric lectin with agglutinin domains and a pore-forming toxin-like domain conferring resistance to Fusarium head blight, Nature Genetics (2016). DOI: 10.1038/ng.3706 Journal information: Nature Genetics
Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany's Phase IIb ADDRESS II Results Confirm Potential of Atacicept as a Candidate Therapy for SLE
Details Category: Antibodies Published on Monday, 14 November 2016 15:43 Hits: 2092
DARMSTADT, Germany I November 14, 2016 I Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, a leading science and technology company, today announced the results of the ADDRESS II Phase IIb, multicenter study on atacicept in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Patients on standard-of-care therapy (n=306) were randomized to weekly subcutaneous injections of atacicept (75 or 150 mg) or placebo for 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients achieving a clinical response as defined by a composite SLE Responder Index (SRI)-4 at week 24. Secondary endpoints included SRI-6 response rate and time to severe flare, assessed by SLEDAI flare index (SFI) or BILAG.
Although the primary endpoint was not met in the overall study population, there was a trend favoring atacicept with statistical significance achieved in a pre-specified sensitivity analysis of the primary endpoint using treatment Day 1 as baseline (rather than screening visit); atacicept 75 mg (55.9%, adjusted odds ratio/OR 1.88, p=0.029) and 150 mg (55.8%, adjusted OR 1.96, p=0.020) compared with placebo (41.0%). BILAG A flare was significantly reduced compared to placebo with atacicept 75 mg (p=0.019), and severe SFI flare reduced with 150 mg (p=0.002).
Additionally, analyses of a predefined subpopulation of patients with high disease activity (HDA; SLEDAI-2K10, n=158) demonstrated statistically significant treatment effects of atacicept when compared to placebo. SRI-6 response at week 24 was significantly greater with atacicept 150 mg (54.9%, adjusted OR 3.30, p=0.005) compared with placebo (28.8%). Both atacicept doses led to significant reductions in the incidence of severe flare versus placebo, BILAG A flare (150 mg, hazard ratio/HR 0.32, p=0.038; 75 mg, HR 0.08, p=0.002) and SFI flare (150 mg, HR 0.19, p=0.004; 75 mg, HR 0.33, p=0.029).
"This is an impressive result, and particularly remarkable for having been achieved in a small study and in 24 weeks," said Dr. Joan Merrill, Coordinating Investigator for the ADDRESS II study. "If confirmed in future studies, this could hold exciting possibilities for our patients."
Luciano Rossetti, Head of Global Research & Development for the biopharma business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany added, "Building on the results of the APRIL SLE study, the results of ADDRESS II show that atacicept has the potential to become an important option for patients with lupus. We are particularly encouraged by the results in patients with high disease activity which was approximately 50% of the patients in the ADDRESS II study. We are looking forward to discussions with the regulatory authorities."
Atacicept was also associated with increased serum complement C3 and C4, and decreased IgG, IgM, IgA, and anti-dsDNA antibodies over time. Treatment-emergent adverse event incidence was slightly higher with atacicept (150 mg, 80.8%; 75 mg, 81.4%) than placebo (71.0%), however, the risks of serious adverse events or serious/severe infections were not increased with atacicept versus placebo, and there were no deaths. The safety findings were comparable for the high disease activity subpopulation, in that the risks of serious adverse events or serious/severe infections were not increased with atacicept versus placebo.
These results will be presented in a late-breaking poster session, "Efficacy and Safety of Atacicept in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Results of a 24-week Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Phase IIb Study," at the 2016 American College of Rheumatology/Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals (ACR/ARHP) Annual Meeting in Washington, DC, U.S.
For more information about the data presented, please review the ACR/ARHP website. Also, visit Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany's booth at this year's Annual Meeting to learn more about the company's commitment to advancing innovation in lupus and other immunological diseases.
About Atacicept
Atacicept is a potential treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Atacicept, a recombinant fusion protein, contains the soluble TACI receptor that binds to the cytokines BLyS and APRIL. These cytokines are members of the tumor necrosis factor family that promote B-cell survival and autoantibody production associated with certain autoimmune diseases such as SLE. Atacicept has been shown in animal models to affect several stages of B-cell development and may inhibit the survival of cells responsible for making antibodies. Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany acquired exclusive worldwide development and commercialization rights for atacicept, including in North America, from Zymogenetics (acquired by Bristol-Myers Squibb) in 2008. Atacicept is currently under clinical investigation and not approved for any use in the United States, Canada and Europe.
About Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
SLE (often referred to as "lupus") is a chronic autoimmune disease, where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues and organs. SLE can result in swollen, painful joints, skin rash, extreme fatigue and kidney damage. Estimates vary widely, but SLE may affect as many as 300,000 patients in the U.S. alone. Women and individuals with African American, Asian, and Hispanic heritage are affected disproportionately by SLE.
All Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the EMD Group Website. In case you are a resident of the USA or Canada please go to www.emdgroup.com/subscribe to register again for your online subscription of this service as our newly introduced geo-targeting requires new links in the email. You may later change your selection or discontinue this service.
About EMD Serono, Inc.
EMD Serono is the biopharma business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, in the U.S. and Canada - a leading science and technology company - focused exclusively on specialty care. For more than 40 years, the business has integrated cutting-edge science, innovative products and industry-leading patient support and access programs. EMD Serono has deep expertise in neurology, fertility and endocrinology, as well as a robust pipeline of potential therapies in oncology, immuno-oncology and immunology as R&D focus areas. Today, the business has more than 1,100 employees around the country with commercial, clinical and research operations based in the company's home state of Massachusetts.
About Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, is a leading science and technology company in healthcare, life science and performance materials. Around 50,000 employees work to further develop technologies that improve and enhance life - from biopharmaceutical therapies to treat cancer or multiple sclerosis, cutting-edge systems for scientific research and production, to liquid crystals for smartphones and LCD televisions. In 2015, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, generated sales of 12.85 billion in 66 countries.
Founded in 1668, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, is the world's oldest pharmaceutical and chemical company. The founding family remains the majority owner of the publicly listed corporate group. Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, holds the global rights to the Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, name and brand. The only exceptions are the United States and Canada, where the company operates as EMD Serono, MilliporeSigma and EMD Performance Materials.
SOURCE: Merck KGaA
The state tests in math and English for students in grades three through eight will continue to be taken over a three-day period in the spring.
State education officials had looked into changing the format to administer the tests over two days. They announced Monday that they will keep the three-day format for the next two years.
They cited the fact that switching to a different format would make it difficult to compare students performance from year to year.
I have always said that state assessments must be diagnostic, valid, and reliable and they must provide timely and practical information to teachers, administrators and parents, said Board of Regents Chancellor Betty A. Rosa in a news release. Maintaining the current testing for now will allow us to measure student development over time in these areas. While we will consider moving to two-day tests for 2019, we will also examine the possibility of adding multiple measures of student achievement into the assessments.
The New York State Education Department had listened to feedback from educators and parents about the format of the tests and worked with its test vendor, Questar, to consider changes.
Last year, the state made the tests shorter and allowed students to be given unlimited time as long as they were working productively. In addition, the state released 75 percent of the test questions, which is more than ever before, and made the reports to parents about the chidlrnens scores in a more user friendly format.
Education advocacy groups took predictable positions on the announcement, with the pro-standards group High Achievement New York praising the decision and the New York State United Teachers union sharply criticizing it.
SEDs decision to maintain testing consistency through 2019 is the right approach to continue showing the real progress students are making in proficiency, said High Achievement New York Executive Director Stephen Sigmund in a news release. Just as standards should be consistent, districts and students shouldn't have to see a different test year in and year out. The tests have already been improved by eliminating extra questions, adding teacher review to every question, and removing time limits. Now, further changes should wait until they can be carefully implemented along with revised New York standards.
NYSUT released this statement on the matter:
Despite a fierce outcry against the length of state standardized tests by parents and educators, the State Education Department is punting on the changes needed to move forward. So much for listening. Whats worse than SEDs failure to heed the legitimate concerns of parents and educators, however, is its indefensible rationale for not reducing the number of test days from three to two. With wholesale changes expected to the states standards, tests and evaluations and a moratorium on the use of test results for students and teachers in place through 2019-20 there is no reason to continue to subject children to three days of standardized tests that mean little.
NYSUT strongly encourages the State Education Department to reconsider, and to continue to work with stakeholders to develop age- and developmentally appropriate assessments that are fair and meaningful. Teaching and learning must always take precedence over testing.
When Lynn Ackershoek stepped into the food pantry at Warren-Hamilton County Community Action just before Halloween, it was what she didnt see that truly scared her.
There was no pasta, no soup. I was really scared when I looked in there, said Ackershoek, the director of the Glens Falls-based non-profit that is one of the go-to places for the needy to get food.
One street over, at Open Door Mission, Kim Cooks main concern is the backpack program her organization runs that feeds 300 children from 10 schools over the weekends.
We are very, very low on backpack food, said Cook, whose group also provides a soup kitchen and food pantry. We really dont have enough to be able to give the kids what they want. We want to be able to put two lunches in each backpack, and we are barely able to do that.
The story is the same at every organization in the region that provides food for the needy. Part of it is cyclical, but its still an issue, and it likely will be in the future.
Well start doing pretty good for a while from now through Christmas, then until the end of January, Ackershoek said. We do pretty well through the end of January. Then we will start getting tight again.
Cook said the cost to sponsor one childs backpack for a year is $185, and donors can also choose to just sponsor milk. Cook is also looking for donations of healthy snacks, juice boxes, canned spaghetti and microwaveable macaroni and cheese.
Things are not good at the Salvation Army of Glens Falls, either.
We are down about 4,000 pounds of donated food, so we will be forced to purchase more again this year, said Major David Dean, the Salvation Army pastor said. Food donations have been trending pretty heavily down the last three or four years.
Devin Bulger, at Comfort Food Community in Greenwich, said he has been seeing a steady rise in the number of households using the Greenwich and Cossayuna pantries and the Fresh Food Hub deliveries, which ended Friday.
Its rough at the beginning of home-heating season, he said. Families are bracing for that.
In Salem, Seth Pitts said much the same thing.
Were struggling, but we will get it done. said Pitts, who is the town supervisor and also runs the food pantry. Pitts said the Salem pantry was starting to put together its Thanksgiving baskets with 15,000 pounds of food from the Region Food Bank of Northeastern New York in Latham.
Its been awfully busy lately, and other pantries I have talked to have said the same thing, said Marcy Robinson of the Washington County Economic Opportunity Council.
Kimberly Sopczyk, executive director of Family Service Association of Glens Falls, Inc., which has one of the largest food pantries in the area, echoed what other directors were saying.
We, too, felt uneasy this fall when our pantry shelves were bare, she said, noting that through various drives, her pantrys shelves are now full. We also are very grateful for the support of the community during the Stuff The Bus food drive and other food drives. The community, including faith organizations, businesses, and schools have been extremely generous to us.
FSA supports families in Warren, Washington and northern Saratoga counties.
Stuff a Bus: 3.1 tons
There was some good news for local pantries recently. Community, Work & Independence held its annual Stuff A Bus food drive at Price Chopper Nov. 4 and 5 and collected 3.1 tons of food, surpassing last years 2.5 tons. More than 20 local food pantries will share in the collection, up from 17 last year.
It was amazing how giving people were, said CWIs Krista Klock. We tried to make it as easy for them as we could, and that really seemed to help.
CWI worked in combination with the Tri-County United Way to put on the event.
Robinson said the drive really helped the Washington County EOC pantry.
Things are great, because we just got our food from the Stuff A Bus campaign, she said. And the Hannaford Helping Hands boxes are coming in, too.
Bellringers needed
One of the ways the Salvation Army funds its holiday food and gifts is through the Red Kettle bell-ringing campaign.
Dean said late last week the Salvation Army was still more than a dozen volunteers short for this week.
This is a critical shortage for the second week, he said. We really need to be strong in our second week, and we are just not getting the calls.
Dean said the first week produced far below the amount of money needed.
With both Election day and Veteren Day falling within a 3 day span, it has been very quiet, he said. Election day was the lowest one day total for income we have seen in our eight years here.
The organization is also still looking for volunteers to ring for the volunteer meal stipend of $23 per day for meals and transportation. It is still one-third short of the number it needs.
To volunteer for any of the positions, call 792-1960.
Prep for Thanksgiving
With Thanksgiving just 10 days away, food pantries and other groups are well into preparations for that day.
In Glens Falls, the Hometown Thanksgiving meal will be held at Christ Church, and there are also meals planned in Argyle and at the Caldwell Presbyterian Church in Lake George. Open Door holds a dinner for its regular visitors on the Saturday before Thanksgiving.
The Salvation Army will put together Thanksgiving food baskets, as will some of the other local food pantries.
Bulger said his group has gone away from the baskets and is delivering meals picked up from a food pantry site in Albany instead. Comfort Food Community collects names and passes them on to the Greenwich Central School National Honor Society, which gets the meals at the Equinox dinner in Albany.
Ackershoek said her pantry is something of a last resort for people for Thanksgiving boxes and has to buy much of the food for the boxes. We usually suggest people utilize one of the other sites, but were here if they need us.
Marcy Robinson, senior program coordinator for the Washington County Economic Opportunity Council.
QUEENSBURY The official results in the Warren County Family Court judge race were still unknown Monday, as absentee ballot counting has stopped in 11 counties because of a court order sought by a Supreme Court judge candidate.
Republican Ted Wilson declared victory on Nov. 8 after receiving 13,778 machine votes compared with 12,401 for Democrat Rob Smith in the race for the Family Court position. But Smith said he will not concede until all the votes are counted.
In the race for Supreme Court justice, Warren County Board of Elections Republican Commissioner Mary Beth Casey said the process of counting absentee ballots has come to a halt because of an order impounding the ballots that was requested by Schenectady County Family Court Judge Mark Powers.
Powers, who has the Democratic and Conservative Party lines, is running against Republican Clinton County Family Court Judge Timothy Lawliss for in the Fourth Judicial District.
A hearing on the matter was scheduled for Tuesday. No ballots will be counted at this time, according to Casey.
Were not allowed to open any of our ballots or give out numbers, she said.
Powers received 160,479 votes on Election Day, compared with 159,064 for Lawliss for the judge position in the district, which covers 11 counties Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Montgomery, Saratoga, Schenectady, St. Lawrence, Warren and Washington counties.
There are at least 21,000 absentee ballots left to be counted in the Powers-Lawliss contest.
MOREAU The final iteration of the 2017 town budget softens the blow to village residents, but theyre still seeing a big change in tax rate.
Now they are facing a 39 percent increase in their town tax, down from a 64 percent increase. The proposed tax rate is 77.9 cents per $1,000 of assessed property, which means the average property owner with a house assessed at $100,000 would see a tax bill increase of $21.90.
The Town Board will vote on the budget Nov. 16 at 7 p.m. at Town Hall.
Town Board member Todd Kusnierz pushed for changes to reduce the tax impact. But he warned that village residents may see another rise in town taxes next year.
For 2017, the budget proposal uses $270,000 from savings in the general fund to mitigate the tax impact, he said.
Previously, the Town Board had planned to put just $67,000 from savings into the general fund.
But injections of cash from savings wont go on forever. Savings is in limited supply, and the Town Board needs to steadily reduce the amount it spends, Kusnierz said. He wants to get to a point where the board doesnt rely on savings to balance its budget, calling that a sustainable budget.
We cant get there in one year, but were a far cry from where we were, he said. Were moving in the right direction.
In addition to savings, the board agreed last week to put $200,000 in sales tax revenue into the general fund. Originally, Supervisor Gardner Congdon wanted to keep all sales tax revenue out of the general fund, arguing that it was unfair to town residents. He put it in fire protection, a town tax paid only by residents who live in the town, not the village.
Congdons arrangement eliminated the fire protection tax. But it greatly increased the general fund tax, which is paid by both town and village residents. Town residents ended up with a total tax rate lower than their total tax rate this year, but village residents saw a 64 percent increase.
With the change, town residents will have to pay a fire protection tax but will still see a slight decrease in their total tax bill.
Now town residents will pay 95 cents per $1,000 of assessed property. Thats 4 cents lower than this year, so the average property owner with a house assessed at $100,000 will see a tax bill decrease of $4.
Its still a decrease, Congdon noted.
Kusnierz said it was a good interim step to ease village residents into the new budgeting method. Congdons philosophy is that village residents shouldnt benefit from the towns share of Saratoga County sales tax revenue, because the village gets its own share of sales tax and uses it in its own budget.
Kusnierz agreed with that philosophy but said a 64 percent tax rate increase was too much for one year. Thats why he proposed using some savings and sales tax revenue in the general fund.
It softens what theyre going to be faced with, he said during last weeks budget meeting. Maybe as a one-time effort.
Congdon supported his plan, saying that he, too, was worried about village residents.
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He noted that the project will make road transportation to and fro Accra very comfortable and will also impact positively on productivity.
The President in his speech at the inauguration stated that his administration is committed to improving the transportation system in the country and is working feverishly towards that objective.
"Lack of traffic flow [at Circle] resulted in an estimated loss of about 100 million dollars per annum to our national economy," he said.
"This is the longest flyover and the highest in West Africa...please note I said flyover, the longest bridge is in Lagos, Nigeria but the longest and highest flyover is in Accra, Ghana."
"Time is a precious invaluable commodity and once spent, it cannot be recovered.
"Effective use of time, therefore, has a direct impact on our economy and must be calculated as a contribution to our GDP.""With the opening of this interchange on which at peak hours is used by about 80,000 vehicles and daily it is estimated to be used by about 200,000 vehicles, reducing travelling time between the Ring Road Central and Feo Oyeo Intersection towards the North Industrial Area from two hours to just approximately five minutes, not only are we saving hundreds of millions of cedis in time wasted by the delay and the travel time, but we are also stimulating business and economic activity," he added.
The GH320.2 million project was jointly financed by the Brazilian government and the government of Ghana.
More here: Kwame Nkrumah Circle to be opened to traffic
It carries about 84,000 vehicles a day and constitutes a key bottleneck in the major road network that links the suburban areas of Accra to the central business district.
Such animals are believed to cause interruption to switching structures, causing intermittent power cuts.
READ ALSO: Power Crisis
But the Director of Operations at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Tetteh Ankamah Okyne insists that The power cut being witnessed in Accra and certain parts of the country is due to the activities of vultures and other birds and we are working hard to address the problem.
He made this known last week when the Public Utility Regulatory Commission convened a meeting among the power producers including VRA, GRIDCO, ECG, Asogli, and so on to find out the cause of the power cut being witnessed in Accra and certain parts of the country lately.
The Deputy Minister of Power, John Jinapor last month dismissed claims by the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) that Ghana may suffer another load shedding crisis in 2017 if the governing National Democratic Congress is given a second term.
READ ALSO: Power Supply
According to him, Ghana has sufficient power than it even requires.
Mr Boakye Agyarko, policy advisor of the NPP in a press conference on Wednesday said the NDC has not demonstrated any measure of control in addressing the challenge.
He said: many businesses and residential consumers of electricity are justifiably afraid that dumsor will come back if the NDC is retained in power.
According to him, Gas supply from Nigeria stopped in June this year and may not be resumed soon due to governments failure to pay outstanding debts in excess of US $160million.
Gas supply from Jubilee Field will also stop at the FPSO and it is expected to be shut down for repairs for the period between three to six months. With these developments, Asogli and AMERI will not be able to generate power.
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The GH320.2 million project was jointly financed by the Brazilian government and the government of Ghana.
Read related:Mahama to inaugurate Nkrumah interchange on Monday
A statement issued by the Ministry of Roads and Highways, said the opening was necessary to reduce congestion and allow traffic to flow freely at the interchange and its environs.
The statement asked the drivers of big trucks to, as a matter of urgency, observe the height restrictions when using the Interchange, and also tasked traders to transact business at authorised locations.
It said: "Law enforcement officers would not countenance any encroachment on the aforementioned routes", warning that trespassers would be dealt with and appropriate sanctions applied where necessary.
"The general public, both motorists and pedestrians are strictly advised to observe all road traffic regulations and obey the law enforcement officials to make driving on the new Kwame Nkrumah interchange safe and smooth for all," it added.
The Kwame Nkrumah Circle is a key intersection in the major road network in Accra.
More here: Kwame Nkrumah Circle to be opened to traffic
It carries about 84,000 vehicles a day and constitutes a key bottleneck in the major road network that links the suburban areas of Accra to the central business district.
President Mahama cut the sod for the construction of the three-tier interchange at the Kwame Nkrumah Circle in Accra in October, 2013.
The development irked passersby, with many asking why party faithfuls would hoist its flags at such an event.
Business is flourishing with the sales of NDC paraphernalia at the Kwame Nkrumah interchange.
The traders are into selling T-shirts, scarves, wrist watches, headgear, key holders, umbrellas, calendars, handkerchiefs, belts, clothes, necklaces and beads branded in NDCs colours and symbols or embossment of President John Dramani Mahamas portrait.
Read more: Mahama to commission Nkrumah interchange today
A statement issued by the Ministry of Roads and Highways, said the opening was necessary to reduce congestion and allow traffic to flow freely at the interchange and its environs.
The statement asked the drivers of big trucks to, as a matter of urgency, observe the height restrictions when using the Interchange, and also tasked traders to transact business at authorised locations.
See also: Government to construct interchange at Tema roundabout to ease traffic
The Kwame Nkrumah Circle is a key intersection in the major road network in Accra.
The NPP when elected into office will bring hope to the youth by introducing tax incentives, creating thousands of jobs and reserving 30 percent government contract for the youth, he said.
Dr Bawumia made this known when he addressed a mammoth youth rally organised by the party's youth wing in Moree in the Central Region on Sunday.
We are going to bring hope to the youth. We are going to create jobs. We are going to make sure that the economy is booming. We are going to bring in a tax incentives schemes so that companies that hire fresh graduate will get tax rebate," he said to sustained cheers from the crowd.
We are going to make sure that businesses set up by the youth, women and the disabled gets thirty percent of the seventy percent of contracts that are reserved for Ghanaian companies," he added.
And on the teacher and nursing trainee allowances, he promised to restore in full their quashed allowance by the Mahama administration.
We will fully and fully restore the teacher training allowances and nursing training allowances," he assured.
On empowering the youth living in the Zongo communities, Dr Bawumia reiterated the party's pledge to establish the Zongo Development Fund.
"And we are going to make sure that our youth in the Zongos are taken care of when we establish the Zongo Development Fund," he said. "We will make allocation every year from the budget to fund the Zongo Development Fund to make sure the Zongos are not forgotten and they are treated with respect and with emphasis on development."
"So we are asking all of you, all of you the youth of Ghana to arise for this change," he charged.
Dr Bawumia also reiterated the party's promise to create the Coastal Development Authority for the Coastal Regions of Ghana, the Northern Development Fund and a Middle Belt Development Authority as well as the Zongo Development Fund.
The ballots for the region arrived in Kumasi Sunday night and the representatives of the various parties gathered to assess them Monday morning.
READ ALSO: EC slams false claims over ballot papers
But the NPP regional chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako said the ballot did not have NPP initials printed on it as the other parties have.
According to him, apart from the logo printed on the ballot paper, there is no indication of the party to which the logo belongs.
The issue created confusion at the Electoral Commission Ashanti regional office on Monday, with the NPP feeling they are being cheated.
READ ALSO: Political parties have these interesting interpretations to their positions on the ballot paper
Meanwhile, the EC in the Ashanti region said it will communicate the incident to the Accra EC headquarters for a solution.
Addressing thousands of NPP supporters at the party's first ever youth rally in Moree in the Central Region, Dr Bawumia said the government is only interested in schemes they can siphon off money, citing the bus branding saga and the Woyome saga.
"But when it comes to the welfare of our people, there is no money. And this is why we say, this Mahama government is probably, and I say probably advisedly because I believe it is the most corrupt government in the history of this country," he said.
"Dollar for Dollar, Cedi for Cedi, this is probably the most corrupt in the history of this country," he stressed.
On the Woyome saga, Dr Bawumia slammed the government handling of the case, promising that an NPP administration will get to the bottom of it.
"And you see how they are treating the Woyome case, I can assure you that we will get to the bottom of this case when Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo is president of this country," he said.
Dr Bawumia also urged the youths to rally behind the NPP because the party has sound policies that will transform Ghana.
CLARIFICATION: POLITICAL PARTY LOGO ON BALLOT SHEETSThe Commissions attention has been drawn to reports in sections of the media suggesting that the Commission had printed a wrong logo for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on the Parliamentary ballot sheets. We would like to place on the records that the claim is entirely inaccurate.Below are the facts: 1. All Political Parties participating in this years elections worked closely with the Commissions Directorate of Electoral Services to agree on the acceptable logo for their parties to be printed on the Notice of Polls and the ballots sheets.2. For the Parliamentary Notice of Polls and Ballot Sheets, the New Patriotic Party specifically indicated their satisfaction with the logo as processed for printing. 3. During the printing process, not only did the party have its representatives at the printing houses at all material times, high ranking officers of the party visited the printing houses regularly to monitor the process. At no point did they raise any objections about the NPPs logo as it was being printed. 4. For the avoidance of doubt, we have added the NPPs official logo as it appears on the partys letterheads. It is clear from the pictures that the party uses these two versions of their logo interchangeably. Both do not include the partys acronym as now being claimed.5. We would like to further place on the record that it is only for the Presidential Ballot that the NPP has specifically requested that its acronym should be added to the logo, and that has been done.6. Therefore, it cannot be accurate that the Commission committed any design or printing errors as being speculated or claimed.Thank you.Signed:ERIC KOFI DZAKPASUHead of Communications
They also added that the reliefs sought by the plaintiffs were inconsistent with the 1992 constitution of Ghana.
The plaintiff argued in his writ that section 23 of C.I. 94, of the law which regulates the conduct of the 2016 general elections, is inconsistent with Article 49 of the 1992 constitution.
The applicants are of the belief that people who want to take part in the special voting should not be made to wait until the total results on actual polling were to be declared and that the results should be declared immediately after the polls have closed.
READ ALSO: Special voting fixed on December 1
Police Director of Communications, Superintendent Cephas Arthur, had told Accra-based Kasapa FM that "One of the Security guards of the opposition leader pointed a gun at the Commander of the Counter Terrorism Unit of the Ghana Police Service, fired a warning shot and pointed the gun back at the officer. The Police team attempted to unleash a defensive attack but the Commander ordered them to restrain the attacks and were very professional yesterday."
He said, "Imagine a civilian pointing a gun at the Police; you have called for everything possible, but the Police were very professional. If it were to be the army whose orientation about weapon is a different thing altogether you can imagine what would have happened."
But in a response, the Greater Accra regional chairman of the NPP, Ishmael Ashitey, insisted that Nana Addos bodyguards are not allowed to carry guns in the course of duty.
...Where did that person get the gun from? I will find out but I know Nana Addos security guards do not use guns. But even in the house, there are policemenso I do not know if those cops will look on and allow others to fire gunshots, he told AccraFM.
The two parties clashed on Sunday in front of Nana Akufo-Addos Nima residence when the NDC were having a health walk.
It is, however, unclear what triggered the clashes but according to reports, both sides confirmed gunshots and hurling of harmful objects.
The NPPs acting General Secretary, John Boadu at a press conference hours after the incident accused the NDC of attacking their supporters with guns, knives and other harmful objects.
The NDC has since denied the claims saying it was the personal security of Nana Addo who first fired multiple shots at the NDC members.
Meanwhile, political parties have been asked to immediately suspend all political activities in the metropolis following recent clashes between the governing National Democratic Congress and the opposition New Patriotic Party.
According to him, no one has so far been arrested in connection with the clashes.
Violence broke at the Nima residence of Nana Addo on Sunday for reasons yet to be made public but according to the NPP, the incident is part of series of activities planned by the NDC.
Some supporters of the NDC undertaking a health walk, allegedly veered off to Nana Addo's Nima residence and tried to enter the house but met resistance from security men.
It is however unclear what triggered the clashes but according to reports, both sides confirmed gunshots and hurling of harmful objects.
But Cephas Arthur in an interview with Accra-based Kasapa FM said, "One of the Security guards of the opposition leader pointed a gun at the Commander of the Counter Terrorism Unit of the Ghana Police Service, fired a warning shot and pointed the gun back at the officer. The Police team attempted to unleash a defensive attack but the Commander ordered them to restrain the attacks and were very professional yesterday."
He said, "Imagine a civilian pointing a gun at the Police; you have called for everything possible, but the Police were very professional. If it were to be the army whose orientation about weapon is a different thing altogether you can imagine what would have happened."
He added that, "Im sure we would have been telling a different story by now. But amidst this fierce challenge we faced yesterday, there were no casualties recorded. Its rather disappointing to hear the public blamed the Police."
However, the NPP has condemned an attack on the residence of Nana Akufo-Addo at his Nima residence by some alleged supporters of the NDC.
Welcome to the Pulse Community! We will now be sending you a daily newsletter on news, entertainment and more. Also join us across all of our other channels - we love to be connected! Welcome to the Pulse Community! We will now be sending you a daily newsletter on news, entertainment and more. Also join us across all of our other channels - we love to be connected!
It was gathered that the woman was abducted on Friday, November 11, 2016, at her residence on Iyewa Olorunsogo Estate.
A neighbour of the Falodis who spoke to newsmen, Baba Ayomide, said he had gone to the womans residence around 8am on that day to charge his mobile phone and that the woman had collected the phone from him and had wanted to enter her house when the bandits accosted her and whisked her into the bush while he was beaten up.
He was said to have been arrested after the case was reported at the Owutu Police Division.
Foladi's daughter, Fola, said she and her mother had vacated the residence a few months ago after a failed attempt to kidnap the sexagenarian, adding that they only came back thinking that the law enforcement agencies had curbed kidnapping in the area, only to be proven wrong.
A neighbour of ours called Baba Ayomide came to charge his mobile phone. She came out and collected the phone from him and was about to enter the house when three men suddenly appeared and attacked her.
She begged them but they didnt listen. They whisked her away. They came with an axe, a cutlass, and a gun.
There was an attempt to kidnap her a few months ago. We left home for about a month. We came back thinking the community was calm. We have not heard anything from the gang. She is a widow.
A landlord on the estate said he too was a victim of the gang on two occasions, adding that the incident has negatively affected the psyche of his family members, adding that he had relocated.
After I was kidnapped for the second time, I became convinced that the place is no longer safe for my family and me.
The second time they came for me, it was in the presence of my wife and children. They are still nursing the trauma.
I had to rent a two-bedroomed apartment somewhere else. I also know of a neighbour that had packed out of the estate.
The flamboyant Senator who has been involved in a lot of skirmishes in the Senate, took to his Twitter account to post the photo of a toddler with a disfigured face as a result of tribal marks.
Melaye who calls the act barbaric believes that the National Identity card is enough to identify individuals instead of tribal marks.
This is what the Senator wrote:
"This barbaric act must stop. National Identity card is enough to identify where individuals come from. Support my bill to stop this ...."
Read the tweet here.
Egbu, who pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge of stealing and obtaining by false pretences, resides at Ojo area of Lagos.
The prosecutor, Insp Uche Simon, told the court that the accused committed the offences on July 27 along Abule Ado, Ojo.
Simon said that the accused fraudulently obtained N200,000 from the complainant on the pretext of supplying Aluminum windows to him.
The prosecutor said that Egbu, who had no intention of supplying windows to the complainant, converted the money to his own personal use.
The complainant said that when they did not get the Aluminum windows from the accused, he demanded a refund of his money.
The complainant said that when he asked the accused for a refund, he started coming up with different excuses for not paying him.
When Iyke got tired of Egbus excuses, he reported the matter to the police and the accused was immediately arrested, Simon said.
The prosecutor said that the offences committed contravened Sections 285 and 312 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Section 312 prescribes 15-year jail term for obtaining by false pretences.
The magistrate, Mr A.A. Paul, granted the accused bail in the sum of N50,000 with one surety in like sum.
He said the surety must be gainfully employed and also show evidence of two years tax payment to the Lagos State Government.
The two men who in the past have had no love for each other spent 90 minutes in the Oval Office talking about the nation.
After the close door meeting, the Trump and Obama came out and addressed the media about their private conversation.
"I had been very encouraged by the, I think, interest in President-elect Trumps wanting to work with my team around many of the issues that this great country faces. And I believe that it is important for all of us, regardless of party and regardless of political preferences, to now come together, work together to deal with the many challenges that we face" said President Obama.
Donald Trump on his part said "I very much look forward to dealing with the president in the future, including counsel. Hes he explained some of the difficulties, some of the high-flying assets, and some of the some of the really great things that have been achieved."
While both men remained cordial and respectful their body gestures told a different story entirely. Here are the three body gestures from Trump and Obama's talk to the media.
1) Obama doesn't acknowledge Trump
The President of the United States did not look at Donald Trump until after the 1:45 second mark in the video. If you really admire someone and like the person's personality you would make eye contact with person a lot. Obama didn't look at his former adversary till after 100 seconds. This shows that Obama does not really regard Donald Trump.
2) Trump steepling his hands
Steepling is the act of placing your hands or fingers together so that they create an upward-pointing V-shape. According to body language experts, this is used to intimidate people. This has been Donald Trump's signature gesture for years. However, if you notice Trump's steeple is downward not upward which reveals he is paying respect to Obama's position as President.
3) Eye blocking
The Coordinator, Non Communicable Diseases and Cancer Control, Niger State Ministry of Health, Dr Hauwa Kolo, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Minna on Monday.
She said that the 2016 World Diabetes Day has the theme Eyes on Diabetes, a call for all to be involved in a global drive to confront and combat diabetes as a crucial health challenge.
Kolo said that diabetes is a disorder of the metabolism system causing excessive thirst and the production of large amount of urine.
She described diabetes as a condition where the amount of glucose in the blood is too high because the body cannot use it properly.
The director also explained that diabetes develops when glucose cannot enter the bodys cells to be used as fuel.
This happens when there is no insulin to unlock the cells known as Type one diabetes.
When there is no adequate insulin or the insulin is there but not working properly this is also known as Type two diabetes, Kolo said.
The state chairman of the association, Mr Umaru Sadiq, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lafia on Monday that governments attitude to his members was not encouraging.
NAN reports that November 14 is celebrated worldwide as the World Diabetic Day.
The theme for this year is Eyes on Diabetic.
The attitude of the state government toward the plights of those living with diabetes is disappointing to say the least.
Many of our members are the elderly and the poor in the society and because of their situation, many cannot easily manage it. So, I expect that the state government should do more to help this category of people, he said.
Sadiq who said that diabetes was far more deadly than the Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV), wondered how government could give huge resources and adequate attention to people living with the HIV but ignore diabetic patients.
He appealed to the state government to have a positive attitude toward assisting diabetic patients.
A diabetic patient, Mrs Rukayat Maitalo, told NAN that the state government was not doing enough to adequately support diabetic patients in the state.
Maitalo appealed for a pragmatic approach to diabetics care to help patients live a healthy life.
"We have a lot of problems, especially, relating to buying of drugs and testing for blood fasting sugar.
A test that used to cost N200 before is now N300, she said.
Maitalo said she was, however, optimistic that since more attention was being given to the disease, government would do more to assist patients living with the ailment.
Another patient, Mr Umaru Husseini, defended the Nasarawa State Governments attitude, saying it was due to the current economic crunch being witnessed in the state and across the country.
Husseini suggested that a cooperation mechanism be put in place between diabetic patients and the state government so that patients could have easy access to the relevant drugs
If patients keep to the rules, they will have no problems.
What is needed is cooperation between those who have the disease and the government, so that government can provide the drugs at subsidised rates since it cannot be provided free, he said.
When NAN correspondent contacted Mallam Tukur Ahmed, the Special Assistant to Gov. Umaru Al-Makura on Media and Publicity, for reactions on the issue, he directed the correspondent to the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Daniel Iya.
According to Punch, President Muhammadu Buhari may have asked the Senate to investigate how the bailout was spent by the Governors.
It was gathered the Senate President, Bukola Saraki ordered the Senate Committee on State and Local Government Administration to probe how Aregbesola applied the N34.988,900 given to it by the Central Bank of Nigeria as bailout to pay workers salaries.
Consequently, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on States and Local Government Administration, Senator Abdullahi A. Gumel, informed the Governor that the Senate committee would visit the state on December 7 for the investigation.
ASUU President, Biodun Ogunyemi announced that the industrial action begins from November 16.
He disclosed this after an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting which held at its headquarters located inside the University of Abuja.
According to Ogunyemi, this would be a one-week warning strike pending the Federal Government's response to subsisting demands raised by the union.
He said if the government fails to do the needful before the end of the warning strike, it would declare an indefinite action.
ASUU also faulted the recent approval granted by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for the establishment of eight new universities.
According to Leadership, the Governor described the reports as false, adding that his focus is on developing Adamawa state.
Bindow also said the false reports will not distract him from his goal of delivering his campaign promises to the people.
He said The attention of Adamawa State governor, Senator Muhammad Umar Jubrilla Bindow have drawn to a story on Peoples Daily newspaper of Friday, 16 November 2016, titled, 2019 Presidency: Its Either Atiku Or Nobody, Says Gov Bindow.
Governor Bindow wish to categorically state that at no time in the flag-off ceremony of the Girei-Pariya-Wuro Bokki last Thursday did he made any statement about 2019 presidency.
The governor only stated that Atiku is like a father to him and he has no political godfather as insinuated by some section of the media. He then thanked President Buhari for bringing peace to the Northeast and Nigeria as whole and called on the people of Adamawa to unite and make the state a better place.
The attribution of such statement to him by the newspaper is false, mischievous, fictitious and malicious. Its is a surprise that such concocted story is published by a reputable newspaper like Peoples Daily.
Atiku Abubakar, on Thursday, November 10, 2016, described Gov. Jibrilla Bindow as the best performing governor the state has ever produced.
The former Vice president pledged that he would continue to support Bindows administration to achieve its vision of transforming the state.
According to Daily Trust, the state's Chief of staff, Abdulrahman Abba Jimeta, on Thursday, November 10, 2016, revealed that Bindow declared his support for the presidential ambition of Atiku.
Muazu said in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Minna on Monday, that various police divisions had been briefed on appropriate steps to take ahead of the event.
The police commissioner added that the command was working with other security agencies to ensure peace and harmony across the state.
He said the early preparation was to ensure that residents move about freely and carry out their legitimate activities without any hindrance during the period.
All that we expect from members of the general public is vital information about bad elements living in their midst, the police chief said.
The commissioner also solicited the support of stakeholders in mobilising residents to volunteer information that would aid the command arrest and prosecutes criminals.
"Thanks be to God. After another 24 days in detention I am finally out. Thanks for all ur love, prayers and support. We shall prevail," he wrote.
Fani-Kayode who served as spokesman for the Goodluck/Sambo Campaign Organisation has been facing a 17-count charge of money laundering to the tune of N4.9 billion before he was re-arrested on Friday, October 21 by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
He was also re-arraigned on fresh charges bordering on corruption, criminal breach of trust and diversion of funds by the EFCC.
Fani-Kayode however pleaded not guilty to the five-count charge.
Falana also added that the government should obey the ruling of the ECOWAS court ordering the release of the former NSA.
He also asked the President to instruct security agencies not to violate the rights of people as they carry out their duties.
According to Punch, the lawyer told Buhari to put a stop to all human rights violations and also release all political detainees.
Falan said With respect to the substantive relief, the ECOWAS Court held that the detention of Col. Dasuki without a court order could not be justified under the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights.
Consequently, the court ordered the release of the applicant and the payment of N15m damages to him as reparation for the infringement of his rights.
In reporting the judgment of the ECOWAS Court, the media conveyed the impression that that the Federal Government has been ordered to release the plaintiff unconditionally from further detention.
Contrary to such misleading impression, the ECOWAS Court has not discharged and acquitted Col. Dasuki in respect to the criminal charges pending against him in the Nigerian courts. All that the court said was that the suspect be allowed to enjoy his human right to liberty within the context of the bail granted him by the trial courts.
The situation is so bad that Arik is now the poster child for flight delays, arbitrary cancellations, customer mishandling and other unbelievable things that would have seen the airline shut down a long time ago in saner countries.
But this is Nigeria, so the madness continues.
On March 31, 2014, Arik locked its passengers, including musician Banky W, in an airplane with no air conditioning. The passengers stayed this way for more than an hour and, according to accounts, some people even fainted.
My thoughts are as follows: it was an avoidable disaster, and one that could have ended up much worse for the staff and equipment of Arik Air. This policy of enclosing passengers within a cabin with no A/C is senseless Banky wrote after the incident.
That incident alone constitutes false imprisonment and criminal negligence on Ariks part, yet there was no investigation or penalty; only an apology which was issued more than a week later.
On November 12, 2016, DJ Neptune also criticized Arik for leaving him stranded and losing his equipment.
Dear @flyarikair @arikair. It is not a must to do business, if you can't act right kindly pack up and stop frustrating passengers. See how passengers going to Benin almost stopped us from boarding today out of frustration, not knowing my own was on the way waiting, he wrote.
He also explained how one passenger lost her wedding dress on the same flight.
On November 13, passengers waiting to fly Arik from Kaduna to Lagos were delayed from 2pm to almost 1:00am.
According to a passenger who works with Pulse, staff of the airline had actually started sneaking out of the airport without informing passengers that the flight had been cancelled.
Unfortunately for the Arik staff, they were detained by some passengers, including DJ Humility, who posted videos on Instagram.
Arik air is seriously messed up!! Weve been in the airport since 1pm, our flight was meant to takeoff by 2pm from Kaduna to Lagos.... This is almost 9pm we are still here and this crazy officials ain't showing any concern leaving everyone stranded here.. They do dis cus dey always get away with it but tonight that shitss gonna stop!!!!! WE ARE HUMANS!!! he wrote.
Arik has become so notorious for its poor customer service that someone created a whole blog dedicated to (negative) experiences on the airline.
This is how over 200 international passengers were held against their will without information, without assistance, without even food or water for more than 15 hours! It should also be noted that these TWO HUNDRED PASSENGERS were international passengers, meaning they were in a foreign country so there was no option to go back to their homes and wait for their flight information. They had no home there and had been prevented from going home for reasons unknown to them, one complainant, Lucie, wrote on the blog.
Another person, Kehinde Gafar wrote:
I am writing on behalf of my father of the dreadful experiences he has had with Arik Air. Flying on a return journey from London Heathrow International to Murtala Muhammad International Airport Lagos,his flight was delayed for 24 hours until he could actually get to Lagos! Also, my father had to make an onward journey to Ikorodu.
Arik Air has also been accused of gambling with the lives of its passengers through illegal practices.
Sources within the aviation industry told Sahara Reporters in October 2016 that the airline pays pilots $200 to exceed the maximum number of landings permissible by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
A staff in Ariks catering department also told Sahara Reporters that the airline takes meals to serve in New York in cargo hold from Lagos because of huge debts owed food vendors in New York. The meals, she said, are usually rancid after the long flight, but are still served to passengers. Passengers are said to regularly complain of food poisoning.
On Friday, November 11, an Arik Air aircraft lost one of its two engines while in flight, with over 100 passengers on board. Luckily the plane made an emergency landing, and this might be a random incident, but given Ariks history of carelessness, I seriously doubt it.
Theres absolutely no reason why Arik Air should get away with all these infractions without being investigated or penalized in any way.
Alhaji Abubakar Augie, the state Commissioner of Finance, gave the directive in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Birnin Kebbi on Monday.
Augie said that government was committed to checking the activities of illegal miners and directed the council administrators to mount surveillance in such areas.
As chief security officers of their localities, the council administrators have the responsibility of securing both public and government assets in their areas, Augie said.
We therefore expect the council administrators to be up and doing in guarding against illegal mining activities the commissioner said.
He noted that government has commenced formal registration of capable mining entities with a view to ensuring that due processes of mineral exploration were adhered to.
According to him, the state will make maximum utilization of its mineral resources to diversify the economy, generate employment and boost its revenue base.
NAN reports that Kebbi was blessed with various mineral deposits, including Gypsum, Gold, Diamond, Kaoline and Iron Ore.
Sagay made the comment in response to the recent arrest of some judges across the country by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Read excerpts of his interview with Vanguard below:
What is your position on the DSS raid on the homes of some judges and justices?
Prof. Itse Sagay I can respond to this as Chairman, Presidential Advisory Committee on Corruption because we have an official position, and that position is: There is nobody that is above the law in this country.
The only people who are enjoying immunity against criminal prosecution are president, vice president, governors, and deputy governors.
Anybody outside this group is totally subject to the full weight of the law for any crime he/she commits. Why we look at the judiciary, with all respect, is that we expect them to conduct themselves in such a manner that they are totally above suspicion.
So, any judicial authority that wants to maintain that aura and authority must be credible. You cannot be corrupt and expect to be respected. You cannot reduce yourself to a level where you are purchasable, where what I will call irresponsible and low type of lawyers will carry money to you and buy your soul and you sell your judgment.
The highest bidder will now hand over money to the judge. So, when you bring us down to that level where nobody can determine the outcome of a judgment based on arguments, the law and facts, then you have destroyed the judiciary.
Those judges, who are corrupt have destroyed the judiciary and nothing is too much for their punishment. Who are the corrupt persons? They are the politicians and lawyers who share part of the proceeds of crimes.
Sincerely speaking, the High Command of the Niger Delta Avengers cannot be blamed for the continuous bombing of crude oil export pipelines and other oil installations, since the Government has been relentlessly carrying out military build ups to continuously harass communities and indigenes of the Niger Delta after the November 1st meeting of the PANDEF and President Muhammadu Buhari, NDA said via a statement released by spokesman, Mudoch Agbinibo.
Iniruo Wills, IPA President, in a statement in Yenagoa, urged NCDMB to convert unregulated artisanal refining into a standardised and sustainable local economy of mini-refineries.
The group congratulated Simbi Wabote on his appointment as NCDMB Executive Secretary and urged him to enhance the participation of indigenes of host communities in the petroleum industry.
IPA urged the board to address issues pollution control in the petroleum sector to ensure that the sector operated in an environmentally sustainable manner.
He said there was urgent need to develop adequate indigenous and in-country capacity for dealing with environmental disasters inflicted on host communities by the petroleum industry over the years.
Obaseki said If you have been patient all these years, will you not give me 90 days? We want to change things radically. We have not less than half a million of young men and women between the ages of 19 and 35, at least half a million who are doing nothing.
I know if I have the figures, I will have to begin to do something about it. So please, just be patient with me. We will get there and we will get there sooner than you think.
He said You will find out that our administration is going to be slightly different, if not radically different, from the last four years and the reason is simple. In the last four years, we had to do a lot of politics because we had to recover our state from strange people who took over.
By the grace of God, we have recovered our state; it is now our state. In the next four years, we are going to be concentrating on what to do with it.
But the problem we have is that we now have to get value for everything we have. There is no free lunch anymore; everybody must now work to earn. You must work to chop. he said.
APC said in a statement on Monday by its Publicity Secretary, Mr Abayomi Adesanya, that Oke had hired over 500 luxury and mini buses to bring in supporters from the neighbouring states to the rally to deceive the people.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed Nov. 26 for the Ondo State Governorship Election.
Adesanya said: Some of our members have been receiving calls from APC members in Osun and Lagos states informing them of the planned mass mobilisation for the ADs flag off campaign in Akure.
We are reliably informed that Bola Ilori, the Director- General of Okes Campaign Organisation, who also doubles as an aide to the Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, has concluded plans with some APC leaders from Lagos and Osun states.
The arrangement is to hire over 500 luxurious and BRT buses, among other mini buses, to ferry people from these two states to deceive the general public and the good people of Ondo State.
Other desperate tricks being employed by Olusola Oke is generation of fake bulk SMS purportedly from EDO APC sent to people to deceitfully invite them to the flag off campaign.
The reality on ground in Ondo State is that the APC Candidate, Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN), is the most popular in the hearts of the good people of the state.
The AD candidate is a third force that has no place of reckoning in the present Ondo State politics.
The party, therefore, urges the people of the state to disregard whatever crowd seen at the AD flag off campaign as hired.
Crucial issue about this election is about evolving a home grown governor for the state; one in tune with the cravings of the people, not one thrown up by political and business merchants outside Ondo State for the promotion of pecuniary interests of Lagos and Osogbo jobbers.
In his reaction, Mr Kolawole Olabisi, the Chairman, Media and Publicity of Olusola Oke Campaign Organisation, advised APC to mind its problems and face its campaign like the AD candidate had been doing.
Is it not an irony that a party that specialises in the importation of people from Osun, Ogun, Oyo and Lagos states where the party currently rules is now accusing a party that it described as an orphan?
AD will not engage in such underhand methods that the APC is noted for. Our people from the nooks and crannies of Ondo State are the ones on ground now for our flag off rally.
Oke is the headache and sole manifesto of the APC in Ondo State and we are aware of their shenanigans and evil plots to stop him from contesting.
Osinbajo, who is also a Pastor, made the call while at the 8th Annual Festival of Minna Choral Society on Sunday in Minna.
The Vice President, who took his text from the book of Romans, Chapter 8 verse 37, re-echoed the portion of the Bible that says we are more than conqueror through Christ that loves us.
He reminded the people of St. Pauls teachings about the various problems that must be confronted by man, saying that people must brace to worlds challenges.
St. Paul was referring to people who are elected and people who have accepted Christ as their Lord and Saviour.
He said that for I am persuaded that neither in death, nor in life, that Christ will not let us go.
We are conqueror, not because we have any strength of our own, but because Christ has promised that if we can hold onto him, he will not let us down, the VP said
Osinbajo noted that Christ loves us so much that he gave us his grace in this life and the life to come.
He said Nigerians must realise the abundant grace Christ had given to us, adding that the worlds problems were temporal.
Gov. Abubakar Bello of Niger urged Nigerians to demonstrate honesty and sincerity in their daily activities.
He said Permit me to use this opportunity to remind you to take advantage of occasions like this to reflect on the need to imbibe the true teachings of Christ.
Are we indeed practicing things prescribed in the holy books. Are we our brothers keeper, do we see ourselves to have come from one father.
The time has come for us to take the things of God more seriously.
It is my prayers that we will make our communities, our state and the country at large free from crisis.
He urged the choristers to continue using their God-given talent in advancing the Kingdom of God.
He asked youths to shun acts capable of undermining the existence of the country, adding the youths were one of the priority areas of his administration.
As a government, we are determined to give every youth the chance to succeed as they are one of our major priorities.
We will not fail you but you must desist from acts capable of undermining our corporate existence, he said.
According to Punch, the spokesman of PENGASSAN, Emmanuel Ojugbana said the unions stand on the issue still remains the same.
This is coming on the heels of a proposal by the petroleum ministry on November 10, 2016, suggesting the sale of the governments stakes in NNPC.
Ojugbana said Actually, the government is trying to revisit the Petroleum Industry Bill and that may have to do with the draft document being reported. But we have not engaged with them in order to know the implication of what is in the draft or the bill. However, we have already made our position clear and Im restating it that we are not in support of any attempt to sell our national assets.
But if there are other policies of government that will enhance the oil and gas industry, we are in support of that. So, we need to understand what the draft proposal is all about and then we will make our contributions. But as per the sale of assets, PENGASSAN is completely against it and should be counted out.
We are not in support of the sale of our national assets; we will only give support to policies that aim to create adequate governance structures, as this will provide more business opportunities, which is good for the Nigerian people. In times like this, the government should not consider the sale of assets belonging to the NNPC, for we will oppose it seriously.
He also added that PENGASSAN will support the Federal Government if it comes up with options that will benefit Nigerians.
Lending his voice, PENGASSAN Secretary-General, Lumumba Okugbawa said the union is looking forward to holding talks with the Federal Government.
He said Our position still remains the same that they cannot sell our national assets. It is not to be allowed. We dont have the details of which company they want to sell in the NNPC. Is it the Kaduna, Warri or Port Harcourt refinery? Is it a different subsidiary of the NNPC, or is it the entire NNPC? These are things we need to find out.
But no matter what it may be, our position stays and it is that the government should not be allowed to sell our collective national assets. There should be better ways to handle things, not by selling our national assets. So, we look forward to having better dialogue with the government.
Ortom said his administration will soon overcome the challenges of non-payment workers salaries in the state.
Ortom gave the assurance when he met the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastort Enoch Adeboye, who was in Makurdi on Sunday for a programme.
The governor, who has owed about five months workers salaries, said that God would provide to help for his government to settle the backlog of the salaries.
He said despite the economic crunch that had affected the smooth running of his administration, God has been faithful and would intervene through the servant of God.
The governor noted that the security challenges of the state had ended since the state was dedicated to God in May, 2016.
Ortom stressed the need for the people to serve God and obey Him, saying that is the only way to live in plenty and prosperity.
Quoting from the Bible in Job 36: 11-12, the governor assured the people that God is the only source of prosperity, pointing out that God has a hand in his election because he was faithful to Him.
He, therefore, pledged that his tenure as governor would continue to focus on glorification of God and service to the people.
Responding, Adeboye said that God encountered man for the first time and spoke to him in blessing, taking his Bible passage from the Book of Genesis 1:26-28,
He stated that God still encounters man even today as He did in the time of old, urging the people to draw closer to God so that He would bless them and establish them in dominion
According to him, a true christian can still prosper despite the economic situation of the nation,adding that the plan of God for His people is to prosper.
He also prayed for the people to encounter God in a new dimension that will catapult them into their blessings and dominions.
Adeboye further prayed to God to give Gov. Ortom wisdom to govern Benue well, so that the people of the state can rejoice.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that AFRIFF kicked off its sixth year of cinematic celebration on Sunday with the unveiling of a new movie, Birth of a Nation.
The star-studded event held at the Filmhouse, IMAX Cinema, Lekki, Lagos.
In his opening speech, Mohammed, assured stakeholders of the Federal Governments commitment to the growth of the industry.
I congratulate the organisers of the Africa International Film Festival on what promises to be another successful event.
I want you all to help me celebrate their commitment to the industry and laudable investment in Nigeria, year after year.
This is the sixth one, and I am here to assure all the practitioners in the industry and the ever-growing customer base of this industry that the best days are here.
Before now, maybe the Nigerian Government threw crumbs at the Nigerian movie industry in terms of infrastructure and human capital investment.
However with the steady growth in the population, we have no choice than to turn to the creative industry, the minister said.
He added that the current administration would ensure that Nigeria would no longer depend only on oil revenues.
If that is the case, which industry do we turn our attention to? The creative industry, of course, he said.
On employment, Mohammed said that the creative industry had provided a veritable platform for talented youths and entrepreneurs to ply their trade.
The movie industry has fully accepted to be not just a great employer of labour, especially young people, but also a potential high foreign exchange earner because of its international appeal and demand.
We are taking the bull by the horn. You have all done a fantastic job with all the support of government and partnership.
Mr President has formally put his weight behind the creative industry and has promised to do everything that will make it possible for us to transit from a creative industry to a creative economy.
The minister gave the assurance that the government was taking proactive measures to provide necessary infrastructure for the development of the industry.
To this end, we are already in talks with state governments and investors to build studio facilities that would equal those in Mexico, India and the U.S. to make filmmaking easier and increase the quality of our films.
To make this industry a great success and attract investors and the best human skills, we are going to see not only to the expansion of distribution, but formalising it, he said.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Film One Distribution, Kene Mkparu, expressed delight at the large turnout of guests for the event.
2015 was great, but in order to make 2016, bigger and continental, it is going to open the biggest silver-screen in the whole of Africa.
In trying to find the right title to open this amazing film festival with, we spoke to our partners, 20th Century Fox.
We met them just under two years ago, and they got this amazing plan and desire to work with Africa and play a part in what happens in the continental film industry.
When we reached out to 20th Century Fox to say we wanted this particular title which happens to be an African story, a huge African story, written and directed by Nate Parker, they turned said yes, we will do it, Mkparu said.
He hailed the Senior Executive Vice President of 20th Century Fox in Europe and Middle-East, Mr Paul Higginson, for the partnership.
He is the most important person as far as distribution and marketing are concerned.
We wanted the stars of this film to come for the opening, but because of timing and schedules, we couldnt get Nate Parker, Gabriel Union and whole bunch of them.
But there is somebody who played a part in this film and happed to be one of our own; I will like to introduce Mr Chike Okonkwo, he said.
In his remarks, Higginson praised Film-house and all those involved, for putting up a great show.
The best way to see film is in the cinema, and the only way you are going to distinguish it from the mobile and home viewing is having great films in great environments.
Frank was suspended following the recommendations of the APC disciplinary committee.
The Northern youths, under the aegis of Coalition of Northern Youths (CNY), also issued a seven day ultimatum to the APC to call the embattled spokesman back.
The group said Franks suspension shows that the leadership of the party does not want youths to participate in the government.
At their stakeholder meeting in Kaduna, the CNY called on Buhari to look into the crisis rocking the APC.
The youths also said the issue in the ruling party is capable of rubbishing the achievements of the Presidents administration.
The youths said We are of the firm belief that the suspension is not welcome at this critical moment that President Buhari needs the support of all stakeholders to achieve his agenda for the country in the face of the prevailing economic crunch being experienced by Nigerians.
The Chairman of the party instead of a bridge builder has become the main problem of the party, causing division instead of using his experience and fatherly disposition to bring members together.
It is also pertinent to note that the leadership of the party has not been fair to the Deputy National publicity Secretary who should by virtue of his position and the constitution be the National Publicity Secretary after Lai Mohammad was appointed as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Instead, there were subtle move to sideline the young man and bring another person in his place, a development we as youth stakeholders in the party are not comfortable with.
From all indications, we are of the firm belief that the treatment being meted out to Comrade Frank is because he is a young man among elders like Oyegun. This is why we are saying that he must be protected by youths except if the elders are saying the party belongs to elders only.
As lovers of democracy, believers in the ideas of President Muhammadu Buhari with millions of Nigerian youths who worked for the success of the party in the last elections, the coalition of Northern Youths want to continually support the APC to deliver on its promises to Nigerians, they added.
That political party will be such a strong force and its one Nigerians will immediately embrace, once source revealed to this medium over Pizza on a sunny afternoon in the nations commercial capital of Lagos.
Various other political heavyweights in the country have revealed to Pulse that an alignment and realignment of political forces in the nation is currently underway.
Meetings are being held in the major cities in each geopolitical zone and very soon, well have that party, one prominent politician in the South West, told Pulse.
We just held one of our meetings in Lagos last week and weve been holding series of these kinds of meetings as we try to put this political party together, added the prominent politician whos been part of these gatherings at the highest levels.
Some of the chaps floating this new political party disclosed to Pulse that theyll be capitalizing on the poor performance of the APC at the center to make their case before Nigerians.
It's a strategy they are hoping can be pulled off.
As you are aware, the APC at the center has been struggling with the economy, said one Northern politician who spoke to Pulse over the phone. If things continue the way there are, well into 2017; and given the type of manifesto and programs well present to Nigerians; given the pedigree of the politicians wholl be selling this party to Nigerians, I can tell you that well displace APC at the center come 2019, he added confidently.
Some of the politicians spoken to for this story, would not reveal to Pulse the identity of the heavyweights behind this third force, except to say that the new party will be run by upwardly mobile and young politicians; some of whom are no strangers to the nation's topsy-turvy political terrain.
Well be a party of the young and old. Unlike the APC and PDP, well actually allow younger Nigerians have a say in the affairs of our party. In the first quarter of 2017, Nigerians will be proud to have a party they can call theirs, offered another politician.
It also looks like a pretty good time to usher in another political party with the APC and PDP battling different forms of internal crises.
APC heads into the Ondo governorship election, not throwing its full weight behind standard bearer, Oluwarotimi Akerodolu.
Indeed, APC leader and strongman of South West politics, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is no fan of Akerodolu.
Tinubus candidate for the election, Olusegun Abraham lost out in the party primaries.
So miffed was Tinubu about not having his way in Ondo, the Jagaban of Borgu called on APC Chairman John Odigie-Oyegun to throw in the towel for allegedly rigging the primary contest in Akerodolu's favour.
Tinubus letter was so scathing and vitriolic, Oyegun needed a few more days to pen his response.
Grapevine reports suggest that Tinubu will be pulling the rug from under the APCs feet by no longer bankrolling the party he helped forge together.
Last weekend, a few loyalists of Tinubus took to the streets to say the Buhari Presidency has treated the former Lagos Governor badly in spite of all hes done for the party.
The man that started the whole revolution (Tinubu) is now being rubbished because of the inordinate ambition of very few members of the party. They want to destroy the party and that is why we are concerned about what is going on. If we allow a few people to truncate what we fought for, then the promise made to Nigerians would not be fulfilled, lamented Henry Ajomale who is the APC Chairman in Lagos.
Olusola Oke who is flying the flag of the AD in the Ondo governorship election, is now assured Tinubus support, sources close to The Jagaban have told
Okes social media campaign has since been taken over by a crop of young men and women who swear by Tinubu.
Tinubu was also ominously absent during the campaign launch of the APC in Ondo--a move that political pundits have linked to the mans growing desire to severe ties with his party, at least behind the scenes.
Hes no longer playing an active role in the APC, said one APC chieftain who craved anonymity for this story. First, his candidate, was badly treated in and you all saw what happened in Ondo. If Tinubu can no longer have a say in how the APC is run, hed better keep his distance, the chieftain lamented.
The PDP isnt faring any better. It has paraded two chairmen in Ahmed Makarfi and Ali Modu Sheriff, since the turn of the year. It went into the Edo governorship contest with two candidates before eventually settling for one on the eve of voting; and it is playing a similar, disoriented card as it heads into the Ondo governorship election.
It is this disharmony in the two biggest political camps in the country, which the incoming third force intends to latch on into reckoning.
The 'third force' guys think they are savvy enough to spot a fertile political field when they see one.
The allegation was contained in a memo presented before the Katsina State Judicial Commission of Inquiry.
Counsel to the commission, Mr Hassan Liman (SAN) stated this on Monday, November 14, during the sitting of the commission.
Liman said the amount was diverted from the accounts of the Ministry of Environment, Department of Community Development, Special Duties, Girl-child Education and the Department of Almajirai Affairs.
He explained that available records showed that the funds were allegedly diverted by the former governor and other government officials.
According to him, there was no evidence on how the funds were utilised during the period under review.
Liman, however, told the commission that the former governor had filed a case before the Court of Appeal, Kaduna, on infringement of his fundamental human rights.
ALSO READ: Katsina road agency accuses Shema of misappropriating N14.2bn
He asked the commission to adjourn the sitting pending the determination of the case.
In his ruling, the Chairman of the commission, Justice Muhammad Surajo, adjourned the sitting indefinitely, saying that the commission will communicate to all parties involved.
The commission also adjourned the hearing of memo on activities of Katsina Road Maintenance Agency and Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs pending the determination of the appeal case before the Court of Appeal.
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According to Punch, the spokesman of the Akeredolu Support Organisation, Steve Otaloro on Sunday, November 13, 2016, alleged that the PDP had defaced Akeredolus posters in Akure.
Otaloro also accused the Ondo state Governor, Olusegun Mimiko of using the state signage agency to stop the APC from displaying Akeredolus posters.
He said The PDP members who took to the streets to celebrate the court verdict did not only deface posters and billboards of the APC candidate, Chief Rotimi Akeredolu, they also uprooted and hacked all his billboards in sight.
This was done without the governor restraining them due to the soaring popularity of the APC candidate above the candidates of other political parties contesting the election.
(Governor Olusegun) Mimiko is intimidated by the mammoth crowd and the high celebration with which the Akeredolu Support Organisation is being welcomed in all the towns and cities visited after the commencement of our campaign for Akeredolu in the forthcoming governorship election.
According to the Ghanaian prophet, the married men of his congregation need to learn to be financially generous towards to their wives.
"Love gives, love shares. Pretty soon your wife is going to say Where is the love? These days women too can do what men do, men if you tell a lady, you know I love you sweetheart, you know I love you babe, or whatever you call them these days, I love you, where is the money? Love must be followed by giving. Dont just do mouth mouth. You must show it", he said.
Ive watched and listened with amusement as people have tried to make Trumps victory seem like a victory for Christians; its not.
Christians are followers of Jesus Christ who are required to be like Jesus Christ; Donald Trump is not a Christian.
Its amusing but not unexpected that religious people are explaining why Christians should be happy about a Trump presidency; theyve conveniently forgotten that Jesus came to abolish religion.
They believe that because Trump is anti-gay and anti-abortion, he represents the Christian faith, but what about love? Does Donald Trump know about love?
Love is the most important part of being a Christian, and Jesus said so himself:
Mark 12: 30-31:and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. No other commandment is greater than these.
How can Donald Trump represent God when he is hate personified? He has expressed hatred for blacks, Mexicans, women and even Jews. How can an anti-Semite possibly represent God?
Trump wants to stop the US from helping dying Syrian children, he wants to separate families, he has no compassion, no milk of human kindness, nothing. How can he possibly represent a God who loves both the evil and the good?
Donald Trump is a hateful, hateful person who has ridden to power mostly on the wings of hate. He is nothing like Jesus Christ, who died for a world full of sinners not knowing if theyd ever love him back.
Trump and his like are bullies who thrive on fear; he is not like God whose perfect love casts out fear.
Donald Trump has won the US election, fair enough, but do not think for one second that this represents a victory for Christianity.
ALSO READ:Why Christians voted for Donald Trump over Hillary Clinton
The Colombian military said over the weekend that members of the ELN had activated an improvised explosive device causing a pipeline blast 100 meters from a kindergarten that left behind an oil slick in a nearby riverbed.
"This is the kind of anti-humanitarian gesture, besides being reprehensible, that calls into question those who say they want to start a peace process," the government's lead negotiator, Juan Camilo Restrepo, said Sunday on Twitter.
The government and the ELN, the second largest guerrilla group in the country, had planned to launch public peace talks on October 27 in Quito. President Juan Manuel Santos cancelled the negotiations after the rebels failed to release hostage ex-congressman Otis Sanchez.
The government and the FARC meanwhile announced over the weekend a new peace deal to end more than half-a-century of violent civil strife.
"We have reached a new final agreement to end the armed conflict, which incorporates changes, clarifications and some new contributions from various social groups, which we have gone through one by one," said a joint statement read out by diplomats from Cuba and Norway, the peace process guarantors.
"Building a stable, lasting peace must be the shared commitment of all Colombians, and one that helps polarization be overcome while including all social and political voices," the statement added.
'A better agreement'
Santos stressed that the new peace deal between the FARC and the government "is a better agreement."
"We made adjustments, tweaks and changes in 56 of the 57 issues that were addressed," Santos said, so "we can build a deeper and broader peace."
The modified agreement leaves intact the accord's major tenets, including the FARC laying down its arms and becoming a political party.
It includes a number of "innovations" to several of the key points in the original peace deal, according to the government's lead negotiator Humberto de la Calle.
The new accord was fine-tuned after the groups that opposed the original deal submitted proposed changes as starting points for negotiations.
"The tweaks and clarifications we have made do not undermine the issues we agreed on, which shaped the first peace deal," De la Calle said.
Santos acknowledged that a suggestion seeking to bar rebel leaders involved in serious crimes from elections was not part of the re-worked peace deal.
He also hinted that the new accord would maintain the provision that FARC rebels could avoid prison time by confessing and carrying out acts of reparation to victims.
But he added that there would be specifications concerning the "effective restriction of their freedom."
The agreement also states that foreign magistrates will not be allowed on special tribunals to hear cases about those involved in the conflict.
'An important step forward'
The original deal's fiercest opponents included Alvaro Uribe, who requested that spokespeople of the opposition be able to review the new text.
The United States hailed the agreement, and pledged continuing US support in implementing a peace under which the guerrillas would demobilize and become a political party.
US Secretary of State John Kerry said in a statement that the new accord "constitutes an important step forward on Colombia's path to a just and durable peace."
The UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said he "commends the efforts" of the FARC and the Colombian government and reaffirmed UN support for the peace process.
"Colombians have listened to one another and have reaffirmed their collective desire for peace," Ban said.
"They now have a new opportunity to go forward on this road to peace more unified than before."
The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and Santos' government had been meeting since October 22 to try to rescue a peace deal that has taken four years to negotiate.
In an October 2 referendum, voters unexpectedly rejected the peace agreement, deeming it too soft on the country's largest rebel group.
The development was a blow to Santos, who won the Nobel Peace Prize last month for his efforts to bring "total peace" to Colombia.
Monyane Moleleki, who quit the government earlier this week, said the landlocked country needed a broad-based and "strong" government of national unity to replace the "rotten" current administration.
"I invite all parties represented in the national assembly including the opposition to approach us to talk about how we can take this country forward," he said.
The current prime minister, Pakalitha Mosisili, heads a coalition government that took power after snap elections in February 2015.
On Thursday Mosisili sacked four ministers, immediately triggering the departure of four others including Moleleki, while 20 lawmakers from the ruling group announced they were quitting the fragile parliamentary majority.
The departures were officially due to disagreements over economic policy, according to local media.
Moleleki was speaking from his stronghold of Machache, about 40 km from the capital Maseru, in front of several thousand supporters dressed in the red colours of his party, an AFP journalist said.
Lesotho has been gripped by crisis since a failed coup d'etat in June 2014, which led to the elections in early 2015.
The All Basotho Convention (ABC) party of then premier Thomas Thabane was beaten by the Democratic Congress (DC) of former Prime Minister Pakalitha Mosisili, who formed a slim majority with several small parties controlling 65 seats in the 120-member parliament.
On Sunday several ABC members joined the DC rebel group, confirming that alliances could be completely rebuilt in parliament, threatening the current government.
Completely landlocked by South Africa, Lesotho is one of the world's poorest countries and its economy is heavily dependent on its larger neighbour, to whom it exports water and hydroelectric power.
The irony is cruel: In the name of a peaceful transition, the American president, having thoroughly denounced the billionaire Republican during the recent campaign, must now do his best to reassure his European counterparts about the future of American democracy under a President Trump.
"I think the design of the trip was meant to just give everybody some reassurance that we made it through this campaign and we're going to come out of it all right," said Heather Conley of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, in Washington. "We just have a different scenario now."
The bombastic populist, whose victory over Hillary Clinton surprised virtually everyone, has given Europeans ample cause for concern.
He has questioned the relevance of some of America's paramount alliances, starting with NATO; put the Paris climate-change accord in doubt by calling global warming "a hoax," and sharply criticized the strenuously negotiated pact that Washington and five other countries signed with Iran to curb its nuclear program.
Trump's attitude toward Russian President Vladimir Putin -- the New York mogul called him "a leader, far more than our president has been a leader" -- is deeply concerning in Europe, particularly in small countries like the Baltic nations living in Russia's shadow.
Beyond the many concerns over the future of American foreign policy, many European Union countries are bracing for a possible ripple effect of the outspoken Republican's victory.
"They are very worried, because the same populist, nationalist expressions" that Trump exposed in America on immigration and trade could amplify the already "very strong political currents within Europe," Conley said.
She noted that several European countries have important elections coming up, not least of them the French presidential election next spring.
In Greece on Tuesday for his first visit there, Obama is set to meet with President Prokopis Pavlopoulos and Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras. He is expected to thank them for the "remarkable generosity" the Greek government and people have shown to the thousands of immigrants who have poured into the country from Africa and the Middle East.
The roots of populism
During a day heavy with symbolism, Obama on Wednesday will visit the Parthenon in Athens, then deliver a speech -- sure to have considerable resonance, given the recent US elections -- on the challenges of globalization.
His advisers, pointing to the results of that election but also to the equally stunning British vote to leave the European Union, said the US president would offer his thoughts on the reasons so many people in the world feel "like decisions are made beyond their control."
Speaking at the United Nations in September, at a time when the US presidential campaign was in full stride but a Trump victory seemed anything but certain, Obama had called on his fellow leaders to come to grips with the rising frustrations fueling populist movements. He warned them against succumbing to a "soulless capitalism that benefits only the few."
"Twenty-five years after the Cold War, the world is less violent and more prosperous," he said, "and yet there is uncertainty and strife."
"This is the paradox that defines our world today," he said, stressing that a world in which one percent of the people control as much wealth as the other 99 percent can never be stable.
For his sixth visit to Germany since coming to power in 2009, the Democratic president will again meet with Chancellor Angela Merkel, long one of his closest foreign partners, according to Ben Rhodes, the US national security adviser.
The day after his election, the chancellor pointedly reminded Trump of the criteria that have long bound the two countries in close cooperation: "democracy, freedom, as well as respect for the rule of law and the dignity of each and every person, regardless of their origin, skin color, creed, gender, sexual orientation or political views."
Obama will also meet in Germany with French President Francois Hollande -- who once said Trump's "excesses" made people "want to retch" -- British Prime Minister Theresa May, and Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi. The leaders plan to discuss the crises in Syria and Ukraine, as well as the fight against the Islamic State group.
The MiG pilot and former Bulgarian air force chief of staff, more used to a uniform than a suit, won close to 60 percent of ballots in a closely-fought run-off on Sunday, projections showed.
The 53-year-old, little known previously, beat the personal nominee of centre-right Prime Minister Boyko Borisov, ex-parliament speaker Tsetska Tsacheva, who fell short with just over 35 percent.
Radev graduated from Bulgaria's Air Force University and Rakovski Defence and Staff College and specialised in the US Air War College in Maxwell Air Force Base.
He started his military career as junior pilot in 1987-88 and moved up the ranks to become Bulgaria Air Force deputy commander from 2009 to 2014, when he stepped up in the commander's seat.
Bumpy ride with Borisov
Radev has taken Borisov to task over his failure to improve the lot of the many Bulgarians living in dire poverty and the lack of progress in stamping out rampant corruption.
He had already crossed swords with Borisov in his air force days, when he pressed hard for the acquisition of new rather than used fighter jets, finally leaving office earlier this year in a huff.
He was then invited by the main opposition Bulgarian Socialist Party as their candidate for president.
His election campaign stressed national security and preventing a new migrant influx, and he gained confidence projecting himself as a fierce critic of the conservative status quo.
"He will unify the nation... and he knows how to defend his positions," his father, Georgi Radev, said on Sunday evening in the southeastern village of Slavianovo, which celebrated the news.
His first job as new president -- a largely ceremonial role -- will be to call early elections in March, after Borisov announced he would resign shortly after news broke of Tsacheva's crushing defeat.
Closer ties with Russia
Radev's clear support for the lifting of EU sanctions on Russia over Ukraine and ambivalent statements about the EU and NATO have prompted analysts to speculate that he might pursue closer ties with Moscow.
"I am convinced that the sanctions do not help but only harm... Russia and the EU countries are equally hurt," Radev said during the campaign.
Bulgaria's membership into the EU and NATO "has no alternative but it does not necessarily mean that we must declare ourselves enemies of Russia", he added.
He also shocked observers by repeatedly saying that Crimea "is de jure Ukrainian but de facto Russian".
Radev is married and a father of teenage daughter and son from a previous marriage. He speaks English, German and Russian.
"Not one state in the world, except it seems to me North Korea and Venezuela, recognises Crimea," Poroshenko told a joint news conference with Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven in Stockholm.
The "United States is not North Korea. And let's respect United States' people, the United States and the United States president," he added.
When asked about the possibility of "an agreement" with Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin about recognising Crimea, Poroshenko responded: "I am absolutely sure that the new president-elect is completely strong enough in an effective cooperation with Ukraine ... no doubt."
In an interview with ABC in August, Trump suggested that the US could accept Russia's annexation of Crimea if it led to improved relations between the two nations, which are bitterly at odds over Syria.
Trump, who takes over as US president in January, criticised President Barack Obama's foreign policy stance during the election campaign saying it had caused a sharp deterioration in relations with Russia.
US-Russia relations dipped to their worst since the Cold War after Moscow's annexation of Ukraine's Crimea peninsula in March 2014, and Russia also has been accused by Washington of supporting pro-Russian rebels in eastern Ukraine.
Poroshenko called for the extension of Western sanctions against Russia.
Woman jailed for misuse of 911
Marianne Gray, 51, was charged with misuse of a 911 service after the Nye County Sheriffs Office dispatch received a 911 call that a domestic violence was in progress at an address on Cajon Lane and a male was armed with a hammer.
Gray reportedly stated on a 911 call Friday that she and the male were involved in an argument and the male allegedly starting throwing tool boxes out of the closet and grabbed a hammer. Gray said that the male began hitting and breaking items within the residence as well as breaking the kitchen cabinets.
Gray told deputies that she feared for her safety because the male was standing within two feet of her with the hammer in his hand and she feared he would hit her.
The male reportedly barricaded himself in the residence and refused to come out.
After Nye County SWAT responded, Sheriff Sharon Wehrly and Undersheriff Brent Moody were able to speak with the male.
An investigation revealed that the residence was not in disarray and nothing was broken, contrary to the statements made by Gray.
The male stated that Gray told him to leave the residence and when he began packing, Gray called the sheriffs office and reported that he was chasing her around with a hammer.
The male, who is on parole and probation, said Gray always taunts him that hes going back to jail for 10 years.
Gray was subsequently arrested and transported to the Nye County Detention Center and booked on charges of false reporting of a crime and unlawful use of an emergency phone number.
Man charged with burglary
Michael J. Brown was arrested on Feb. 25 and charged with burglary after deputies received a report of a burglary at a residence on East Bank Avenue.
The victim reportedly told deputies that after arriving home he observed a male inside his residence who was attempting to exit out the back door.
The victim said he was holding the suspect, identified as Brown, at gunpoint until deputies arrived.
As deputies were investigating, they reportedly discovered that Brown had forced a window open from the back door, unlocked the door and gained access to the residence.
The home had been ransacked throughout and the victim reportedly said that Brown had opened and consumed approximately $250 worth of food.
Deputies noted in the arrest report that Brown is also a suspect in another burglary case where his clothing was discovered left behind inside the victims travel trailer as well as the suspects cellular phone.
That victim reportedly told deputies that he made contact with Browns twin brother using the contact information in the phone.
Brown was arrested and transported to the jail and booked on charges of burglary and petit larceny.
This article is compiled from Nye County Sheriffs Office arrest reports. Contact reporter Michelle Hermann at michelle.pvtimes@gmail.com
A Nye County Detention Center inmate who has been rushed to the hospital on several occasions after purposely ingesting plastic utensils and eyeglasses was denied a release from custody on his own recognizance last week by a District Court judge.
A Nye County Detention Center inmate who has been rushed to the hospital on several occasions after purposely ingesting plastic utensils and eyeglasses was denied a release from custody on his own recognizance last week by a District Court judge.
John Oliveira, 46, appeared in court Thursday morning following a report that mental health professionals had deemed him competent to stand trial in two cases he has pending.
The defendant was sent to Lakes Crossing, a state mental health facility in Sparks, for an evaluation at the request of his attorney.
Oliveira is currently facing charges of burglary and offenses involving a stolen vehicle, both of which he pleaded not guilty to during last weeks hearing.
After a trial date was set for next month in the burglary case, Oliveiras attorney Harry Kuehn asked Judge Kimberly Wanker if she would be willing to grant his client a recognizance release from custody.
Kuehn explained his client has cost the county money on several occasions when he has ingested something inedible and had to be sent to the hospital for treatment and Nye County Sheriffs deputies must be assigned to watch him around the clock while he recovers. He said it may be more cost-effective to allow his sickly client out of custody while he awaits further action in the two cases.
Your honor, the Lakes Crossing report, as I indicated earlier, is probably the most uncomplimentary a client has ever had in my 33 years. But the true reality of Mr. Oliveira is this, when he was in (custody) early on he ate some Styrofoam and a pencil and he had to be hospitalized until those items passed and the sheriffs office had to provide 24/7 coverage at the hospital. Then when he came back somehow he got a pair of eyeglasses and he swallowed those and he had to be hospitalized, he perforated his colon and had at least a temporary colostomy bag, and the sheriffs office had to provide supervision 24/7, the attorney told the court.
When he was in that second time, the hospital determined that he needed heart surgery, so he was again sent to the hospital and he had heart surgery, Kuehn said. Having said that I met with Lt. (Mark) Medina, I met with District Attorney Brian Kunzi and just philosophically discussed how long we might keep Mr. Oliveira in custody when hes so self-destructive and when hes costing so much time and effort and morale.
Kuehn said in light of those findings, it might be best to let Oliveira out of custody as he is likely not a flight risk in his diminished physical state.
Deputy District Attorney Michael Vieta-Kabell, however, told the court he believes Oliveira was the last defendant the judge should consider granting an OR release.
He does this every time. Ive never seen anyone go to that length to manipulate the system and to avoid their obligations to society and the courts. I feel for the sheriffs office but they have a job to do. This gentleman is the worst candidate for an own recognizance release Ive ever seen, he said.
Wanker said she agreed with the prosecutor, telling Oliveira and his attorney she does not reward bad behavior by letting someone out of custody.
This is a very, very manipulative attempt and unfortunately he thinks his bad behavior will be rewarded with an OR release and Im not going to do it, the judge said. Maybe he shouldnt be given any utensils to eat with, maybe he needs to just eat with his hands or be served sandwiches or something. The bottom line is Im tired of him pulling these little stunts and thinking hes going to get away with it, she said. The point is if he thinks he can manipulate the system and walk out the door. I dont think so, its not going to happen, not on my watch.
After he was ordered to remain in custody unless he can post bail, Oliveira told the judge he was just worried about being in custody and going through another heart surgery in the future.
Mr. Oliveira, I told you before when you ate the plate and the cup and then ate the pencilyou should have thought about that before you behaved so badly, she responded.
Oliveira will appear in court again on Nov. 14 for a one-day trial in the case of the burglary charge.
Canada will no longer require citizens of Romania and Bulgaria to hold a valid Canadian temporary resident visa (TRV) to lawfully enter Canada effective December 1, 2017. Further, citizens of Romania and Bulgaria who have held a Canadian TRV within the past 10 years or who currently hold a valid non-immigrant visa for the United States of America, will not be required to hold a valid Canadian TRV to lawfully enter Canada effective May 1, 2017. Citizens of Romania and Bulgaria will however be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada upon removal of the visa requirement.
In addition, Bill Morneau, Finance Minister, has announced that new measures will be implemented in 2017 to attract more foreign investment and foreign talent to Canada to stimulate growth. A Global Skills Strategy will be adopted that will expedite certain work permit and visa applications and the aim will be to process these applications within two weeks. The Global Skills Strategy will also introduce a new work permit exemption for foreign nationals working in Canada for 30 days or less within a year.
What this means for you as an employer?
Upon removal of the visa requirement, citizens of Romania and Bulgaria will be able to travel to Canada with a valid eTA and will be eligible to apply for a Canadian work permit at a Canadian port-of-entry (e.g. international airport), if required. Therefore, if you have any current or prospective employees who are citizens of Romania or Bulgaria and who are required to travel to Canada, they should be able to travel to Canada more expeditiously upon removal of the visa requirement.
The Global Skills Strategy will target high-growth Canadian companies that require foreign talent to facilitate and accelerate investments that create jobs and growth as well as global companies that are making large investments in Canada, relocating to Canada, and establishing or expanding production in Canada. The Global Skills Strategy should assist Canadian companies, particularly startup companies, to attract highly skilled workers and it should make Canada a more desirable place to do business.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to your usual PwC contact for further details.
Davenport police are investigating a report of shots fired early Sunday on Gaines Street.
The incident was reported at 2:47 a.m. when police were called to the 800 block of Gaines Street, according to a news release from the police department.
Officers were told that a vehicle had struck a pole and flipped on its side in the 1100 block of Gaines Street.
The occupants of that vehicle fled the scene.
Casings were recovered in the area.
Preliminary investigation indicates several vehicles had been chasing each other.
At 3:43 a.m. officers responded to Trinity Hospital in Rock Island for a gunshot victim. An adult male with a non-life threatening gunshot wound had been transported by private vehicle.
This incident was reported to have occurred when the victim was driving into Iowa on the Centennial Bridge.
Casings were located on the bridge.
Detectives are currently conducting follow up and to determine if these incidents are related.
Anyone with information regarding these incidents is encouraged to DO WHATS RIGHT and call the Davenport Police Department at 563 326-6125 or submit an anonymous tip via our mobile app entitled CityConnect Davenport, IA."
A Davenport woman was sentenced Monday to 17 years in federal prison for her role in a conspiracy to bring methamphetamine to the Quad-Cities.
Theresa Gay Morales, 51, declined to make a statement before District Court Judge Stephanie Rose handed down the sentence in U.S. District Court, Davenport.
Morales pleaded guilty in June to charges of conspiracy, distribution of a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
During an hour-long sentencing hearing, Rose sentenced Morales to 210 months in prison on the conspiracy and distribution charges and 120 months, or 10 years, on the gun charge. The sentences will run concurrently, or at the same time.
Once she completes her prison sentence, she will serve five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the prison sentence.
According to court documents:
In early November 2015, agents used a confidential source to investigate the distribution of methamphetamine by Morales, who was living in Bettendorf.
The confidential source told agents that Morales received large amounts of crystal methamphetamine from a man later identified as Cesar Angeles-Ballesteros. The source said Morales would travel to where he was and obtain the methamphetamine, including a run to Las Vegas where Morales collected about 10 pounds of methamphetamine, rented and car and drove back to the Quad-City area.
On Nov. 10, 2015, agents determined Morales had flown from Chicago to Phoenix and was returning in a particular vehicle.
On Nov. 13, 2015, agents located Morales on Interstate 80 and tried to initiate a traffic stop. Before stopping, Morales and her passenger, Ashley Marie Palmer, had thrown about 8 pounds of methamphetamine from the vehicle.
During questioning, Morales told agents she traveled to Phoenix and got 8 pounds of methamphetamine from two men working through Angeles-Ballesteros. Morales said she had transported meth for Ballesteros about 12 times with the largest amount being 15 pounds. Morales, who has felony convictions in Illinois and Iowa, also had a .22-caliber semiautomatic pistol in a safe deposit box at a Bettendorf bank, according to court documents.
Palmer pleaded guilty to conspiracy and was sentenced in October to 60 months in prison.
Angeles-Ballesteros and co-defendants Douglas Ray Lairmore, Abraham Guevara-Ocampo, Robert J. Skinner Jr., will be tried Jan. 9.
Two other co-defendants, Tammy Velazquez and Kimberly Edwards, also pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges and will be sentenced Jan. 17 and Feb. 13, respectively.
A roundup of Capitol news items of interest for Monday:
REYNOLDS ON GLASS CEILING: Iowa Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds said Monday that Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton achieved a milestone in her unsuccessful bid for the White House by becoming the first woman to earn a major-party nomination. Reynolds, a Republican, said she thinks Clinton lost because Americans voted for change. Reynolds said she encourages Iowa women to not only run for state office but to get involved with local government and non-profit organizations. Thats how were going to continue to get more women involved in the process, Reynolds said.
PROTESTORS SHOULD TAKE A BREATH: Responding to a reporters question about multiple race-related incidents in Iowa since the Nov. 8 presidential election, Reynolds urged people to take a breath. We need to treat everybody with dignity and respect. President-elect Trump called for that last night (during a televised interview). He said for individuals to stop it, Reynolds said. This is a divided country and we need to look at how we can bring this country back together. And its not about any one individual. Its about the direction of the country. When asked about the incidents, Reynolds said it is happening on both sides, and noted protests like the one in Iowa City, where protestors blocked a portion of Interstate 80.
APPRENTICESHIP WEEK: Reynolds discussed the second annual National Registered Apprenticeship Appreciation and Awareness week this week, which she plans to commemorate by traveling across Iowa to observe apprenticeship programs at the Iowa State Penitentiary in Anamosa, the MidAmerican Energy training facility, Service Legends, and Central Campus in Des Moines. Reynolds said the registered apprenticeship program can help the state fill what employers say is a lack of skilled workers. I believe that work-based learning can empower Iowans with the skills that they need for rewarding careers and grow the talent pipeline for Iowas employers so that they can expand and innovate, Reynolds said.
--Times bureau staff
MUSCATINE, Iowa John Moses Biah has all the American markers of success: a modest but inviting home in Newell Avenue, a car and a steady job at Allsteel. In his living room, a gargantuan flat-screen TV engulfs the wall behind it, and a plush rug adorns the floor.
On his brown sectional sofa, he recalls his previous life. A life marred by conflict, strife and hunger. A life as a refugee. He describes his previous life in big, urgent gestures, as though words alone are not enough to convey the message fully.
My life was very difficult. A lot of family members were killed, he said.
Biah lived in the Liberian capital of Monrovia with his parents, sisters and extended family when the civil war erupted in 1989. When rebels took over the city, he and his family fled the city by foot, walking for a month until they reached Ivory Coast.
Later the same rebel group came to Ivory Coast and we moved to Guinea, he said.
In Guinea, Biah and his extended family lived in a refugee camp ran by the U.N. International Organization for Migration, which assists migrants in need. In the camp, two of his nieces died of pneumonia. He and his family would eventually come to the US, and would settle in different parts of the country.
Biahs story is not unusual, said Pastor Bruce Martin of Calvary Church in Muscatine. He estimates that since 1995, more than 600 Liberian refugees have made the city their home. The church created the Liberian Fellowship, where many Liberians congregate to worship.
The first Liberian refugee to ever come to Muscatine learned about the city because engineering company Stanley Consultants has branches in the city and in Monrovia, Martin said.
Many Liberians who come to the country as refugees eventually move to Muscatine to work in factories such as Tyson, Heinz and Allsteel.
Biah was one of them. He initially settled in Minnesota, while other family members settled in Georgia. He visited his friend in Muscatine a decade ago, and his friend convinced him to settle in Muscatine. Biah got a job in Allsteel in 2006 and has since made his home in the Muscatine.
The life he had built in the United States is stable and productive. He studies agriculture in Muscatine Community College. He also has a fiance, Cecilia, an old friend from Monrovia who used to live in Atlanta.
He recalls his first few weeks in the United States with joy.
There was an abundance of food, he said.
And there was snow. Lots of it.
It was my very first time to have seen snow in my life. It was like a miracle to me, he said.
MUSCATINE, Iowa - The Third Annual Soup Sample Supper sponsored by the American Legion Family will be held from 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 19, at the American Legion Post 27 home at 110 South Houser Street in Muscatine.
The American Legion will be serving a variety of homemade soups to sample so plan on having fun sampling the variety and then going back for a bowl of your favorite(s). A cold cut platter will also be available for sandwiches along with crackers and other trimmings for the soups. The dinner also includes ice tea and coffee.
DES MOINES Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds said Monday shes had no discussions with Gov. Terry Branstad about ending his current term early to take a post in President-elect Donald Trumps administration, and she expects the focus to be on working with a GOP-led Legislature to move their goals to the next level.
Reynolds dismissed speculation about Branstad possibly being eyed as Trumps pick to be the next U.S. ambassador to China given his close ties to Chinese President Xi Jinping and his strong support in helping Trump win Iowa in last weeks election. She also said it was coincidence that Branstad currently is leading an Iowa trade mission to China and Japan, noting the visit was planned months ago for this week.
As youve heard the governor and I say multiple times, Reynolds said during the administrations weekly news conference Monday, were proud of what weve been able to do. But were not done yet. Weve got a lot to do, so Im looking forward to continue serving Iowans.
Reynolds sidestepped questions if she planned to run for governor in 2018 and told reporters I dont know what the governors going to do when asked if she expected Branstad would seek a seventh term. She did confirm she and Branstad have not talked about the possibility of him not serving out the remaining two years and two months of his current term after an eventful election last week.
Republicans will return to the Statehouse in January with a new majority in the Iowa Senate to go with a slightly larger majority in the Iowa House after Nov. 8 balloting in which Iowans backed Trump, held status quo on federal-level incumbents and put 29 GOP senators and 59 GOP representatives in charge at the Statehouse.
Im excited about this next legislative session and Im excited to get back to work on behalf of Iowans, Reynold said. Were going to sit down the governor and I and our team and our staff and legislators and were going to talk about putting an agenda together that will take Iowa to the next level.
The lieutenant governor said the Branstad administrations goals continue to be growing quality jobs, shrinking the size of government, returning Iowa schools to world-class caliber, making Iowa the healthiest state in the state as a way to help control spiraling healthcare costs, and improving the quality of Iowas water supply.
Thats the big picture were looking at, Reynold said. Well sit down and take a look at everything and then work with legislators and see how we continue to move the state forward.
The 2017 sessions agenda may be tempered by the amount of state tax money that is available for budgeting once the state Revenue Estimating Conference meets in December. That could be somewhat restrictive on what our opportunities are moving forward. All of that has to come into play when we take a look at next steps, she said.
Iowas economic growth has been slowed by depressed farm prices that have hovered below the cost of production, and Reynolds said the objective of the trade mission Branstad currently is leading to China and Japan is to expand Iowas exports and to encourage reverse investment in Iowa by Chinese companies.
Twenty-Six Seconds: A Personal History of the Zapruder Film
Alexandra Zapruder
Twelve
$27.00
472 pages
Point and click.
These days, its that easy: theres a camera on your cell phone and a cloud for your photos. No more film to buy, or plastic flash bulbs. No more waiting a week for your pictures; you can see them immediately and delete what you dont want. But be careful as youll see in Twenty-Six Seconds by Alexandra Zapruder, some snaps may have lasting significance.
Though she never knew her grandfather, Alexandra Zapruder understood that hed done something noteworthy. When people remarked on her surname, or asked if the family was related to the man who captured the Kennedy assassination on film, Zapruder adults answered politely but otherwise rarely discussed the matter.
That man, Zapruders grandfather, Abe, was born in 1905 in the Ukraine and immigrated to America when he was a teen. It was a trip that was not without dangers; still, Zapruder says her grandfather grew up to be a confident go-getter who ultimately owned a clothing business in Dallas. That was his work but photography was his passion.
On November 23, 1963, Abe told his employees that they were free to take a long lunch to watch as President Kennedys entourage drove past their building, and he left to retrieve the new film camera hed forgotten that morning. Shortly after he returned to work with camera in-hand and film loaded, he asked another employee to help steady him so he could get the best footage.
Twenty-six seconds. Thats all he caught.
Within minutes, he was offered big money for the footage, but Abe resisted, insisting that hed only release it to government officials; days after that, he controversially opted to release it to LIFE magazine. In coming months, when asked to do so, he answered questions and testified in court, in regards to the footage.
And then he put the matter aside, reluctant to speak of it again.
But, of course, that wasnt the end of the film.
There would be no end to it, says author Alexandra Zapruder but the footages afterlife was a contentious one. In Twenty-Six Seconds, she elaborates.
Beginning with Zapruders reasoning for telling this story, readers will gain a unique perspective on this iconic sliver of celluloid, but that tale is marred by passages of recreated emotions and conversational bits. Yes, that moves this story along but recreated scenes as such are inherently fiction. Clarity matters here was the information from interviews or was it meant to set a scene? and it would have helped a lot.
And yet, though it can absolutely be quite wordy, theres enough family research and personal insight in this book to keep it readable and relevant. Its been 53 years since the film was captured; it seems that we can never know enough about it.
I think that if you want nothing but hard facts, pass. If youre still fascinated with Camelot and conspiracy, then this book belongs on your bookshelf. Fall in the latter camp, and Twenty-Six Seconds is a book you should make a point to own.
RAPID CITY | South Dakota has dismissed a criminal charge against a SkyWest Airlines pilot accused of being under the influence of alcohol before a flight at an airport in the state.
Pennington County Chief Deputy State's Attorney Lara Roetzel said Monday that the state filed for dismissal because a blood draw taken hours after a preliminary breath test showed no measurable alcohol in his system.
The 39-year-old pilot was arrested Oct. 26 at Rapid City Regional Airport after a security worker said the pilot smelled like alcohol and notified authorities. The pilot was arrested before passengers had boarded the 50-seat jet.
Although the breath test showed a level above the legal limit of 0.04 percent, that level had dissipated by the time his blood was drawn four hours later, Roetzel said. Breath test results are not admissible in court.
The flight to Salt Lake City, Utah, with a passenger list of 45, was delayed for two hours until a new crew arrived. The airline based in St. George, Utah, issued a statement Monday saying the pilot was immediately grounded and remains on unpaid leave while the investigation continues.
Following his arrest, the pilot posted $300 bail and was released from jail.
SPEARFISH | After waiting more than two years for formal approval of its flight plan from the Federal Aviation Administration, the city of Spearfish has formally assumed the controls of Black Hills Airport-Clyde Ice Field from Lawrence County.
Local officials say the busy airport should see improvements under the new arrangement and will play a key role in the ongoing growth and development of the Spearfish economy.
Following the first meeting of the newly constituted Spearfish Airport Advisory Board late last week, city officials and the airports longtime manager said they see only clear skies in the years to come.
As you look at the city and you consider those assets that help create economic opportunity like Black Hills State, Regional Hospital and our Industrial Park the airport is one of those big assets that can be an economic driver for the community, Spearfish City Administrator Joe Neeb said. We believe this will be an asset that will help Spearfish reach its true potential.
Neeb said city control over operations, management and fiscal responsibility of the Spearfish airport, the busiest general-aviation airfield in South Dakota, should be a revenue-neutral proposition and that it was the intent of the city council to not devote any property tax revenues to its operation.
As discussed at Thursdays meeting, the city may initially have to assist in replacing some outdated equipment at the airport, but overall, the facility should be self-supporting, he said.
Its not a burden, but a vital piece of our citys future, Neeb said.
Tucked on the eastern flank of the Northern Black Hills and centered among the burgeoning energy camps of the Niobrara, Powder River Basin and the Bakken oil fields of North Dakota, the airport is named for pioneer aviator Clyde Ice.
Airport Manager Ray Jilek said Friday that the skys the limit for the airfields future.
Were optimistic and looking forward to flying in the right direction, Jilek said of the citys new role at the airport. I dont anticipate any real significant changes due to city control. This airport will continue to operate as it has, if not improve.
As evidence of the airports position for the future, Jilek pointed to 14 individuals and companies currently on a waiting list for hangar space, 47 existing and occupied T-hangars, and plans to build a new 11-unit T-hangar in 2017.
Weve been fortunate the past 16 years to have 100 percent occupancy of our hangars, and anytime we can bring another airplane to the field, it contributes to the local economy, he said. In addition, potentially weve got three large aircraft owners interested in developing hangars for their aircraft right now. On top of that, just this morning I got a call from a Texas company that would like to hangar their aircraft here.
So the demand is there, Jilek added.
Last year, the city bought 160 acres at the southeast edge of the airport to prevent encroachment and to accommodate a planned second cross-wind runway, Neeb noted. Typically, the FAA has funded 90 percent of airport improvements, with the remainder covered by local entities and the state, airport officials have explained.
The airport advisory board consists of seven members appointed by the mayor to serve three-year terms. They are Chairman Michael Rath, Vice Chairman Brooks Hanna, Randy Deibert, Travis Lantis, Randall Rosenau, Dan Hodgs and Jim Seward.
SIOUX FALLS | Lillie Ann Hybertson passed away peacefully Nov. 10, 2016, at Avera Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls. Born Sept. 5, 1931, on the family farm near Beresford to Elmer and Lillie Larson, Lillie Ann graduated from Beresford High School and Augustana College. She married Paul Hybertson in 1954, and they raised their five children in Sioux Falls.
Lillie Ann was employed by the Sioux Falls Public Library and the City of Sioux Falls personnel office. Pauls career with the South Dakota National Guard led them to Rapid City in 1977, where Lillie Ann worked for the Rapid City Public Schools personnel department. A renowned and accomplished home cook, she also enjoyed reading, needlework, and an active volunteer life with the Wesleyan Church, Rapid City Regional Hospital Auxiliary, and numerous other causes.
After her husbands death, Lillie Ann returned to Sioux Falls and resided at Good Samaritan Prairie Creek Lodge. Lillie Ann was a deeply loving and supportive mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. The candy bowl was always full, the Scrabble board or jigsaw puzzle was in play, and the Twins or Vikings played in the background. She was firmly grounded in her spiritual life and treasured her relationships with Crossroads Wesleyan Church in Rapid City, Linwood Wesleyan Church in Sioux Falls, and the Prairie Creek Chapel.
Lillie Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Hybertson, grandson Matthew Farmen, great-grandson Henry Opoien, and son-in-law Ray Dickerson. She is survived by her children Joel & Kathy Hybertson of Sioux Falls, Julee and Dale Farmen of Katy TX, Mary and Tom Frederick of Sioux Falls, Susan Dickerson and Louie DeSimone of Sioux Falls, and Karen Ellman of Minneapolis, MN.
Her meatballs, lemon meringue pies, and cinnamon and caramel rolls will be fondly remembered by her surviving grandchildren, Christopher, Corey, Kristen, and Scott Hybertson; Molly and Jacob Farmen; Sam Frederick and Janet Fearnside; Joseph and Andrew Dickerson; Greg, Jane, and Libby Opoien; and nine great-grandchildren. Lillie Ann was fortunate to have enjoyed the life-long love and enduring friendship of her surviving sisters and brothers-in-law, Alice Mae and Howard Kennedy of Beresford, SD, and Judy and Marlin Mehrens of Primghar, IA, and well as her nieces and nephews and their families.
The Hybertson family is grateful for the care provided by the Avera and Good Samaritan systems, and particularly the Dougherty Hospice House care team during her extended stay.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15, at Miller Southside Chapel, 7400 S. Minnesota Ave. in Sioux Falls. Remains will be committed at Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, SD, at a later date. Please direct memorials to Avera Dougherty Hospice House or Rapid City Regional Hospital Hospice of the Hills.
For obituary and online registry, please visit www.millerfh.com
Four other Ukrainian officers charged with using banned methods of warfare
MOSCOW, November 14 (RAPSI) - Russian investigators have charged in absentia four other Ukrainian officers with using of prohibited methods of warfare in Donbass region, acting spokeswoman for Investigative Committee Svetlana Petrenko told journalists on Monday.
Charges were brought against commanders of the 72nd, 92nd mechanized brigades, Col. Andrey Sokolov and Col. Viktor Nikolyuk, commander of the 44th artillery brigade, Col. Oleg Lisovoy and commander of the Army operational command Yug (South) Andrey Grishchenko, Petrenko said.
Last week similar charges were brought against commander of the 1st battalion of the 14th mechanized brigade, Lt. Col. Mykhaylo Prokopiv and commander of the 10th mountain assault brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Lt. Col. Vasily Zubanich.
Investigators claim that on March 15 and 16, 2016, officers of the 72nd and 93rd Separate Mechanized Brigades and their subordinates deliberately opened artillery fire on Yasinovataya and Staromikhailovka settlements in the Donetsk region damaging local civilian facilities and houses.
On March 16, in yet another incident servicemen of the 30th Separate Mechanized Brigade bombarded a house located near the town of Gorlovka, as a result harm was caused to two local residents.
On March 24 and 28, 2016, a local resident was wounded and several houses were demolished after two districts of the city of Donetsk had been chosen as an aim for the artillery of the 14th Separate Mechanized Brigade.
Besides, a criminal case was opened over the shelling of houses in the town of Makeyevka by heavy artillery on October 27, 2016. As a result of this bombardment two local residents died and several other were wounded, including a 6-year-old girl. Damage was caused to some civilian facilities.
U.S. citizen deported from Russia for illegal border crossing
MOSCOW, November 14 (RAPSI) U.S. citizen Julio Prieto who had come to Russia "looking for a better life" was deported from the country for illegal border crossing, RIA Novosti reported on Monday.
Prieto tried to enter Russia from Kazakhstan but the entry was denied because he had no visa.
U.S. citizen crossed the border anyway and was arrested by a border patrol, according to prosecutors.
Prieto was detained on September 15 and brought to court in October.
He was fined 7,000 rubles ($106) for crossing the Kazakh-Russian border and ordered to pay 2,000 rubles ($30) for administrative offense before being deported.
Prieto was put on the flight from Novosibirsk to New York via Moscow and Dublin, according to the Bailiff Service Directorate for the Novosibirsk Region.
Prieto told prosecutors that he came to Russia "looking for a better life" to work in the countryside.
America must return to conservative principles of less government,reduced taxes, less spending and a balanced budget! Cut,cap and balance!
AmericaUp to Its Eyeballs in Mass Murder and Starvation in Yemen
Updated November 14, 2016 | Revolution Newspaper | revcom.us
While the presidential election campaign was going on, America was up to its eyeballs in the mass murder of thousands of people, and the starvation of millions more. These war crimes were never mentioned, and many may never have heard about the country being devastated: Yemen.
Map: revcom.us
Yemen is located at the tip of the Arabian Peninsula and is one of the worlds most impoverished countries. Since March 2015, Saudi Arabia has been flying warplanes supplied by the U.S., guided by U.S. intelligence, refueled by U.S. tanker planes, and dropping U.S.-made bombs on Yemen. These bombs have destroyed homes, factories, funeral parlors, schools, and markets, and killed thousands of ordinary people.
This savage campaign is aimed at crushing the Houthi rebellion because it threatens the reactionary interests of Saudi Arabia and the U.S. The Houthi movement is based among followers of the Zaidi branch of Shia Islam, who are over a third of Yemens 25 million people. The Houthis are fighting under the reactionary Islamist banner of Ansar Allah (Partisans of God). Theyre politically supported by and have some ties to the reactionary Islamic Republic of Iran.
Markets, Homes, Funeral ParlorsNow a Prison
Rubble after a funeral hall was destroyed by a Saudi-led airstrike in Sana'a, Yemen, October 13. (Photo: AP)
The infrastructure of life in and around Saada, Yemen (above) has been devastated from U.S.-backed airstrikes by Saudi Arabia: 178 bridges, 13 power stations, 17,193 houses, 173 schools, 118 markets and 696 farms have been destroyed or damaged according to AP. (Photo: AP)
The latest Saudi massacre happened on October 30, when Saudi warplanes bombed a jail full of prisoners in the Houthi-controlled city of Al Hudaydah. At the time, the prison held 84 inmates; it was reduced to rubble by a direct hit which collapsed the roof. Sixty people were killed. They were mainly prisoners.
The U.S.-backed Saudis are waging a barbaric war against a whole section of Yemens population numbering in the millions. The United Nations reports that over 4,000 civilians have been killed and over 7,000 more wounded since the Saudi campaign began, mostly by the Saudis.
After the prison bombing, for the first time in the 19-month war, the U.S. called on Saudi Arabia to stop attacking civilian targets. Yet Saudi Arabia remains a key U.S. ally, military aid and support continue to flow, and the U.S. continues to uphold Saudi Arabias right to self-defense, their excuse for attacking Yemen in the first place.
War by Starvation and Disease... A Country on the Verge of Collapse
The Saudis are also waging war by a blockade thats prevented food and needed supplies from getting to Yemens people.
Now 80 percent of the populationmore than 21 million peopleurgently need humanitarian aid. Some 1.5 million children are acutely malnourished. The World Health Organization has reported that deadly cholera is spreading. The UN warns that Yemen is on the verge of collapse.
The Destruction of Saada
Saada is an old town in northern Yemen where 50,000 people live. Its also the birthplace of the Houthi movement. On November 4, the Associated Press reported the city had been devastated by the U.S.-Saudi bombing campaign: All along the main street, buildings are crumpled beyond recognition, roofs punched in and pancaked. Historic mud-brick houses in its walled old city are pounded to dust.
Imperialism means huge monopolies and financial institutions controlling the economies and the political systemsand the lives of peoplenot just in one country but all over the world. Imperialism means parasitic exploiters who oppress hundreds of millions of people and condemn them to untold misery; parasitic financiers who can cause millions to starve just by pressing a computer key and thereby shifting vast amounts of wealth from one place to another. Imperialism means warwar to put down the resistance and rebellion of the oppressed, and war between rival imperialist statesit means the leaders of these states can condemn humanity to unbelievable devastation, perhaps even total annihilation, with the push of a button. Imperialism is capitalism at the stage where its basic contradictions have been raised to tremendously explosive levels. But imperialism also means that there will be revolutionthe oppressed rising up to overthrow their exploiters and tormentorsand that this revolution will be a worldwide struggle to sweep away the global monster, imperialism. Bob Avakian, BAsics 1:6
The infrastructure of life in and around Saada has been shattered: 178 bridges, 13 power stations, 17,193 houses, 173 schools, 118 markets, and 696 farms have been destroyed or damaged. One local organization documented the killing of 2,262 civilians, including 397 children, in the area from March 2015 to March 2016.
Fear is a constant. The more crowded a place is, the more we are afraid of bombings, a 15-year-old girl said. Her family, like 4 of 10 Saada residents, had fled the town.
Why Is the U.S. Backing the Saudi Slaughter?
Why is the United States backing and enabling Saudi war crimes in Yemen?
Because the U.S. is a capitalist-imperialist power. It economy, wealth, and international influence are based on a global empire of sweatshop exploitation, resource plunder, and brutal oppressionenforced by the worlds biggest military. The Middle East region is a key part of this. It contains the worlds largest concentration of oil and natural gas. Important trade routes pass through the region. The U.S. has a number of military bases there.
Now the region is being torn by wars, upheavals, and deep suffering and anger. The U.S. is desperately working to protect key allies, like Saudi Arabia, while it fends off regional and global rivals, and the spread of anti-U.S. Islamic jihadism.
Saudi Arabia has been shaken by the U.S.-Iran nuclear deal, and then the 2014-2015 Houthi uprising. Both could strengthen their archrival Irans position in the region. So the U.S. has stepped up the arming of Saudi Arabia and backed its murderous war, even as the U.S. may have differences with some Saudi moves.
Systems Crimes Will ContinueNo Matter Who Is Commander in Chief
Saudi Arabias American-backed and -enabled crimes against Yemen have taken place under Obama, a Democrat. As his Secretary of State in 2011, Hillary Clinton personally oversaw the sale of $29.4 billion in U.S. weapons to the Saudi kingdom, including some 84 advanced F-15SA fighters, which are now in all likelihood being used to attack Yemen. An International Business Times investigation found that U.S. arms exports to Saudi Arabia increased 97 percent when Clinton ran the State Department.
Now, Donald Trump has been elected. Trump is a dangerous, outright fascist and war criminal in waiting.
Heres the reality: no matter who is commander in chief, America backs barbaric, fundamentalist despotisms like the Saudi kingdom. And it backs and has carried out horrific crimes that have shed oceans of bloodin Yemen and around the world.
STOP Wars of Empire, Armies of Occupation, and Crimes Against Humanity!
For full coverage and the current issue of REVOLUTION click here
Native Americans Fight Modern-Day Genocide: Critical Juncture in Battle at Standing Rock
November 14, 2016 | Revolution Newspaper | revcom.us
Standing Rock encampment, November 5, 2016. Photo: Special to Revolution/revcom.us
The battle taking place near the Standing Rock Sioux reservation, which straddles the border between North and South Dakota, to stop the Dakota Access oil pipeline (DAPL) may be reaching a critical turning point.
On November 11, media outlets reported that after delaying the pipeline since September 9, Obama is preparing to approve resuming its construction, perhaps as early as this week. One report said the approval is related to the election of Republican nominee Donald Trump who would eventually approve the project anyway. The Obama administration denied the reports. Kelcy Warren, head of Energy Transfer Partners that has funded the pipeline, recently boasted hes 100 percent sure that Trump will OK the pipeline.
The struggle to stop the DAPL is a battle against modern-day genocide of Native Americans and environmental destruction. The pipeline, being built right next to the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation as part of its almost 1,200-mile route, threatens the tribes water, land, irreplaceable historical and cultural sites, and their future as a people. The DAPL, scheduled to carry nearly 500,000 barrels of oil a day, is also a potential environmental catastrophe for the planet.
The Standing Rock Sioux is a small tribe8,250 live on the reservation near where the Cannonball and Missouri Rivers meet. Theyre up against powerful forces: a juggernaut of big financial institutions and energy companies, backed by the government, the legal system, and the armed enforcers of the state.
Standing Up
Donate to Support revcom.us Correspondents at Standing Rock Revcom.us correspondents at Standing RockTravis Morales and, from the Revolution Club, NYC, Riley Ruizare standing with the struggle, reporting on developments, learning from people, and engaging people with the new communism and the work and leadership of Bob Avakian. Click here now to make urgently needed donations to support them.
The Standing Rock Sioux have been battling the DAPL for two years. Early this year, they made a bold move and set up a protest camp to stop the pipeline. This just and courageous stand by a determined few water protectors, as many at Standing Rock call themselves, has galvanized the fighting spirit of many more.
Hundreds of Native tribes have joined the struggle, including ones with longstanding historical conflicts. Environmental activists and a wide range of people compelled to take a stand against injustice and oppression have joined. Thousands of people have been part of the protest encampment. Well-known voices, such as Edward Snowden and Susan Sarandon, have spoken out in support, and actor Shailene Woodley was among those arrested at a protest. At least 19 city governments have passed resolutions or written letters opposing construction of the pipeline. Thousands have taken part in support actions in over 200 cities across the U.S. and in Canada and England. On November 3, over 445 clergy members came to Standing Rock to act in solidarity.
Find out more about the revolution
Find out about BA, the leader of the revolution
Cannonball River. Photo: Special to revcom.us
Protesters have repeatedly faced off with police and constructions crews. Theyve stood up to pepper spray, rubber bullets, attack dogs, and heavily armed police and hired thugs. Theyve built barricades across roads and forded the freezing waters of the Cannonball River. Theyve refused to back down in the face of a media-fueled climate of violent hatred whipped up among significant numbers of whites in the area, who are armed and openly threatening Native Americans and those they perceive as supporting them. Many Native Americans and supporters have been brutalized and hundreds have been arrested.
The Systems Ongoing Genocide and Environmental Devastation
Over 90 percent of DAPL is being built on private landmuch of it on land granted to the Sioux by the 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie and then stolen. The original plans called for the pipeline to cross the Missouri near Bismarck, the capital of North Dakota. State officials worried that an oil spill could poison Bismarcks drinking water. In a blatant act of environmental racism, they moved the pipeline crossing to within half a mile of the Standing Rock reservation, land taken from the tribe in 1958.
The determined actions of the fighters at Standing Rockand now the possibility that Obama is preparing to give final approval to the pipeline and the near certainty that Trump willare shining a light on the predatory nature of the oil-addicted capitalist-imperialist system. Whatever the differences within the ruling class, all of them are committed to increasing domestic fuel production (what they call U.S. energy independence) in order to gain strategic advantage over rival world powers. This is a key part of maintaining their position as top global oppressor and exploiter. All this is driven by the workings of their capitalist-imperialist system.
A Critical Juncture
The pipeline construction reportedly reached the Missouri River in early November, and Energy Transfer Partners has stated it plans to start digging under the river in less than two weeks. The election of the fascist Trump promises to further embolden the capitalists building the pipeline and reactionaries in the area.
Read the entire HOW WE CAN WINHow We Can Really Make Revolution HERE
Our correspondents at Standing Rock report that many at the protest camp are NOT in a mood to sit by as this pipeline continues to go through, and more people continue to arrive at the encampment. As we go to press, the November 15 national day of action in solidarity with Standing Rock is demanding that the federal government and the Army Corps of Engineers stop this pipeline.
This is a crucial juncture. Everyone needs to express clear, unequivocal, and public support for the fighters at Standing Rock, who are not only defending the lives, water, and humanity of the Standing Rock tribe, but standing up against centuries of genocide against all Native peoples in America, and against the further destruction of the Earths environment. What takes place at Standing Rock can contribute to fueling a more defiant and determined spirit of resistance against all this systems crimesincluding the election of Trump.
Background on the struggle at Standing Rock:
"Native Americans Fight Modern-Day Genocide: Standing Up at Standing Rock"
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WASHINGTON, Nov 14: President-elect Donald Trump's tough-talking plan to rein in illegal immigration showed signs of cracking on Sunday, with the president-elect seemingly backing off his vow to build a solid wall along the southern U.S. border and the top House Republican rejecting any "deportation force" targeting people in the country illegally.
In an interview with CBS' "60 Minutes," Trump said Sunday he would accept a fence in some places along the U.S. southern border where he had promised to build a wall.
During his campaign he insisted he would deport 11 million people living in the country illegally, with exceptions. But he distanced himself from that position as time went on, and in his first television interview since winning the presidential election, Trump said he's willing to deport or incarcerate 2 million to 3 million people living in the country illegally who "are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers."
Earlier Sunday, House Speaker Paul Ryan, also told CNN's "State of the Union" that "we are not planning on erecting a deportation force." Ryan said "I think we should put people's minds at ease" on mass deportation because the top priority is really border security.
On that, both men agreed Sunday, with the president-elect emphasizing that securing the border is his first immigration priority.
Trump campaigned on a promise to build a wall and make Mexico pay for it. The promise elicited chants of "Build that Wall" from the thousands throughout the country who packed his rallies. Mexico has said it would not pay for the construction of a border wall.
Nearly 700 miles of fencing was put in place during President George W. Bush's second term and the beginning of President Barack Obama's first term.
The fencing is placed largely in urban areas along the nearly 2,000-mile frontier. It is not the type of solid wall that Trump has pledged to construct at Mexico's expense. The fence has miles-long gaps and gates built in to allow landowners access to their property on the south side of the fencing. Immigrants have been known to go over and around the fence.
Guwahati, November 14: At least four persons were killed when a speeding SUV hit at a roadside railing in Assam's Lakhimpur district on Monday morning, police said.
According to the reports, the incident took place near Lakhimpur town when a speedy SUV hit at a roadside railing.
All the four persons who travelled in the vehicle killed on spot.
(Reporting by Hemanta Kumar Nath)
FILE a In this Oct, 1, 2016 file photo, Pakistan army soldiers take position at a forward area Bagsar post on the Line of Control (LOC), that divides Kashmir between Pakistan and India, in Bhimber, some 103 miles, 166 km, from Islamabad, Pakistan. Photo: AP
ISLAMABAD: Pakistans military says Indian troops fired on its soldiers in Kashmir on Monday, killing seven of them and prompting return fire, as officials warned that the tense standoff between the nuclear-armed rivals could escalate.
The two sides have traded fire repeatedly in recent weeks across the Line of Control, which divides the Himalayan region into Indian and Pakistani-controlled zones. The two nuclear rivals each claim the entire territory, and have fought two of their three wars over it.
The international community should pay attention, Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif told Geo News TV. It can escalate. This could be catastrophic for the region.
He added that Pakistani troops had also inflicted losses on the Indian army, without elaborating.
An Indian army officer said Pakistan had fired on Indian troops in a breach of the cease-fire, and that they effectively retaliated. The officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief reporters, said there were no casualties on the Indian side.
The latest escalation was set off by a September attack on an Indian military base by Pakistani militants. India blamed the attack on Pakistan, which has denied involvement.
Tensions have run high since Indian troops killed a Kashmiri militant leader in July. The killing ignited some of the most violent protests in years, and dozens of people have been killed in Indias resulting crackdown.
Pakistani foreign affairs adviser Sartaj Aziz said there has been an increase in the duration and frequency of indiscriminate firing by India, which has in recent weeks killed 26 civilians and wounded over 100 in villages near the frontier.
The Indian actions, which constituted a threat to the maintenance of peace and security, may lead to strategic miscalculation, he said.
US President-elect Donald Trump and Chairman of the Republican National Committee Reince Priebus (right) address supporters during his election night rally in Manhattan, New York, US on November 9, 2016. Photo: Reuters
WASHINGTON: President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday picked Reince Priebus, a Washington insider who heads the Republican National Committee, as White House chief of staff, signaling a willingness to work with Congress to advance his agenda when he takes office in January.
But while giving the influential post to the low-key Priebus, Trump handed another senior White House job to rabble-rousing conservative media figure Stephen Bannon, his campaign chairman who helped engineer his surprise victory on Tuesday over Democrat Hillary Clinton.
Priebus is a friend of US House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan, who distanced himself from Trump during the campaign but embodies the Republican establishment in Washington and will play a critical role in shepherding Trumps agenda in Congress. Both Priebus and Ryan are from Wisconsin.
But Bannon, former head of the right-wing Breitbart News website, has been fiercely critical of Ryan.
Trumps statement announcing the appointments said Bannon and Priebus would be working as equal partners to transform the federal government, with Bannon serving as chief strategist and senior counselor to the president.
The White House chief of staff serves as a gatekeeper and agenda-setter for the president, but Trumps statement mentioned Bannons job first.
I am thrilled to have my very successful team continue with me in leading our country, Trump said in a statement. Steve and Reince are highly qualified leaders who worked well together on our campaign and led us to a historic victory. Now I will have them both with me in the White House.
Before joining Trumps team, Bannon spearheaded Breitbarts shift into a forum for the alt-right, a loose online confederation of neo-Nazis, white supremacists and anti-Semitics. Bannons hiring by Trumps campaign this year signaled the businessmans dedication to operating outside the norms of Washington.
Under Bannons leadership, the Breitbart site presented a number of conspiracy theories about Clinton as well as Republicans deemed to be lacking in conservative bona fides.
Critics have accused Bannon of harboring anti-Semitic and white nationalist sentiments. In a 2007 court filing during divorce proceedings, Bannons former wife accused him of making anti-Semitic comments on at least three occasions.
As head of Breitbart, he repeatedly attacked the Republican Party establishment including Ryan, alienating many veteran Republicans. Bannon showed his willingness to engage in brutal political tactics when he instigated the appearance before a presidential debate of three women who said they had been sexually abused by his Democratic rivals husband, former President Bill Clinton.
Trump, who will succeed Democratic President Barack Obama on Jan. 20, has been contemplating the candidates for top jobs in the White House and in various Cabinet positions since Tuesdays victory.
Priebus appointment could anger some hardline Trump supporters who were counting on Trump to keep his campaign promise to drain the swamp of business-as-usual Washington insiders.
Priebus is a longtime Wisconsin political operative who was credited with marshaling party resources for Trumps White House bid. The Republican National Committee stepped in and ran most of the partys get-out-the-vote effort this year in the absence of such an operation by the Trump campaign.
While some Republicans fled from Trump during the campaign, Priebus was unwavering in his backing for the New York real estate developer.
Priebus frequently traveled with Trump on the campaign trail and was seen as a positive force who helped rein in the unpredictable Trump in the closing weeks. Trump made his high regard for Priebus known on election night when he pulled him to the microphone to take a bow for his campaign efforts.
BORDER WALL
Trump and his advisers already have hedged on some of his major campaign promises, including on immigration, healthcare and appointing a special prosecutor to investigate Clinton.
Trump, in an interview that aired on Sunday, backed away from his promise to build a wall on the US-Mexican border, saying some areas could instead be fencing.
Trump, whose pledge to force Mexico to pay for a border wall was a centerpiece of his White House, said in certain areas he would accept fencing instead of a brick-and-mortar wall, according to his interview with the CBS program 60 Minutes.
But certain areas, a wall is more appropriate. Im very good at this, its called construction, there could be some fencing, he said.
In the 60 Minutes interview, Trump said Americans alarmed by his election had nothing to fear. Dont be afraid. We are going to bring our country back. But certainly, dont be afraid, he said.
Demonstrators in major US cities took to the streets on Sunday for a fifth straight day to protest against Trump.
Trump said in the interview that once he takes office, he would remove immigrants with criminal records who are in the country illegally.
During the campaign, Trump said he would deport the estimated 11 million immigrants in the country illegally, most of whom are Hispanic.
Ryan on Sunday backed away from Trumps promise during the campaign of a deportation force to round up and deport immigrants in the country illegally.
We are not planning on erecting a deportation force. Donald Trumps not planning on that, Ryan told CNNs State of the Union program. I think we should put peoples minds at ease. That is not what our focus is. That is not what were focused on. Were focused on securing the border.
Kathmandu, Nepal: Lawmakers of the agitating Federal Alliance (FA) a loose alliance of the Madhesi and Janajati parties, boycotted the Parliamentary session on Monday.
They had boycotted the parliament meeting alleging the government for delaying to address their demands by amending in the constitution.
Interestingly, earlier in the meeting with the Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal the leaders of the agitating FA had urged not to register the constitution amendment proposal right away.
Kathmandu, Nepal: Going contradiction to their demand, the agitating United Democratic Madhesi Front (UDMF) has urged the Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal not to register the constitution amendment proposal right away.
During a meeting with Prime Minister Dahal held at Singha Durbar on Monday, the UDMF leaders urged to register the constitution amendment proposal only by the end of November.
The UDMF had not only been piling pressure on the government to table the constitution amendment proposal in the Parliament at the earliest possible but also challenging to launch decisive protest demanding early registration of the constitution amendment bill in the parliament.
The UDMF leaders have a demand that the constitution amendment proposal should be registered in the parliament only after consultation with the political parties represent in the parliament.
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Just as Shinkai Makoto and Hosoda Mamoru are going strong in the race to become the new king of anime, it looks like Miyazaki Hayao, the man who was king for so many years may also be returning to the fold (once again).
The Man Who Is Not Done: Miyazaki Hayao, the master animator announced that he wants to make a new anime feature, according to In a recently screened NHK television special,, the master animator announced that he wants to make a new anime feature, according to ANN
Miyazaki has been working on Ghibli Musuem short Boro the Caterpillar but is apparently unsatisfied with it as a short and therefore has presented a project proposal for a feature film version, that could be completed by 2019.
According to the report, Miyazaki has already started creating storyboards for the film, but is still awaiting official approval.
Russia is going to ban Linkedin after a court ruling that found the professional social network to be in violation of the countrys data protection laws.
violation of the countrys data protection laws.
On Thursday, a Moscow court has confirmed the decision to ban the professional social network LinkedIn in Russia. LinkedIn is violating the countrys data protection laws that ask foreign and Russian companies to store personal data of Russian users within the countrys borders since Sept. 2015.
This summer a court ruled in favor of Roskomnadzor, the Federal Service for Supervision in the Sphere of Telecom, Information Technologies and Mass Communications, explaining that LinkedIn company didnt comply with Russian law.
LinkedIn it is not storing information about Russians on servers inside the country, and it is processing information about third parties who arent registered on the site and havent signed the companys user agreement.
The Russian Personal Data Law was implemented since September 1st, 2015, it requests foreign tech companies to store the personal data of Russian citizens within the country. The Law was designed for protecting Russian citizens from surveillance activities of foreign agencies such as the NSA.
On Aug. 4, Moscows Tagansky Court approved a request from Russias communications watchdog Roskomnadzor to add LinkedIn to a list of Internet sites that violated Russias personal data laws. reported the Moscow Times
On Sept. 1 2015, amendments to the law On Personal Data, which requires the localization of personal data on the territory of Russia, came into effect. Any Russian or foreign company working with Russian users must ensure recording, systematization, accumulation, storage and clarification of personal data of Russians using databases on Russian territory.
LinkedIn is just the first firm that could be targeted by the Roskomnadzor which is now threatening other tech giants, including WhatsApp, Facebook, and Twitter.
The Russian courts decision has the potential to deny access to LinkedIn for the millions of members we have in Russia and the companies that use LinkedIn to grow their businesses. We remain interested in a meeting with Roskomnadzor to discuss their data localization request. reads a statement from Linkedin.
Some companies like Google and Apple have already moved some of their infrastructures to Russia this year, differently from Microsoft, Facebook and Twitter that decided not to comply with the Russian law.
The ban could take effect today, with Russian internet service providers blocking access to LinkedIn. LinkedIn could still appeal the courts decision to avoid being blocked across the country.
Russia isnt the unique country that is going to adopt a similar law, the Germany passed similar legislation that forces tech companies to store German users data on servers located in the country.
A number of American tech companies are investing billions of dollars combined to build data centers across Europe to comply with such rules. reported the NYT.
In Brazil, a judge also blocked WhatsApp, the internet messaging service, after the company, which is owned by Facebook, refused to hand over data to help in a criminal investigation.
In May, a Brazilian judge ordered to block access to the WhatsApp messaging service for 72 hours, it was the second time in five months.
Brazilian authorities ordered ISPs to block WhatsApp in a dispute over access to encrypted data. The order to block the messaging service for 72 hours has been issued by a judge from the Brazilian state of Sergipe, the ISPs were obliged to comply the order to avoiding face fines.
According to the Brazilian newspaper Folha de S.Paulo the ban impacted more than 100 million Brazilian users.
Pierluigi Paganini
(Security Affairs Russia, LinkedIn)
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"Judicial Challenges to the Collateral Impact of Criminal Convictions: Is True Change in the Offing?" | Main | "A comeback for the death penalty?"
November 13, 2016
Respond to Election 2016 outcomes by writing a commentary for the Federal Sentencing Reporter
Wearing my hat as an editor of the Federal Sentencing Reporter, I am happy to reproduce a solicitation from the journal below (and I am eager to encourage regular readers to put together their views ASAP for possible publication):
Seeking Commentaries for Federal Sentencing Reporter Special Issue to provide Advice for the new Congress and new Administration
Every election cycle presents a notable opportunity for new discussions and debate over the state and future of the federal criminal justice system, especially when the election comes at the close of a two-term presidency. And after considerable talk before the campaign season of bipartisan agreement over the need for federal sentencing reforms, the 2016 campaign saw the two leading candidates take divergent tacks when discussing crime and punishment. Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton spoke of the need for end-to-end reform of the criminal-justice. In sharp contrast, GOP candidate (and now President Elect) Donald Trump stressed the themes of "law and order."
With the election of Donald Trump and with both houses of Congress to be under the control of the same party as the President Elect, the incoming Congress and new Administration could seek to move forward swiftly with criminal justice reforms. But what form might new reforms take? In a short document entitled "Donald Trump's Contract with the American Voter," the President-Elect pledged to work with Congress to establish new mandatory minimum prison terms for certain immigration offenses, to create a task force on violent crime, and to increase funding for federal law enforcement agencies and federal prosecutors. But beyond these few pledges, it remains quite unclear whether or how the new Trump Administration or the incoming Congress might want to make a criminal justice reform priority.
In light of these developments and related uncertainty, the editors of the Federal Sentencing Reporter have decided to create a special Forum opportunity to invite judges, lawyers and other sentencing practitioners, legal academics and sentencing researchers, to share "Advice for the new Congress and new Administration." We hope that contributors to this special issue of FSR can help provide both general ideas and specific proposals for how the new Congress and new Administration should approach criminal justice reform issues, especially as they relate to federal sentencing law and policy.
FSR seeks to publish short commentaries ranging in length from a few paragraphs to a few pages on any federal crime and punishment topics authored in any reasonable form to provide Advice for the new Congress and new Administration. Commentaries could tackle big structural issues (such as whether the time has come to radically change the advisory guideline system), smaller technical issues (such as how to revise statutory mandatory minimum drug sentencing provisions), or any other topic of interest or concern to modern federal sentencing policy and practice.
FSR hopes to publish in its December 2016 and February 2017 issues all proper commentaries submitted before the end of this year. Submissions must be received no later than November 28 for possible publication in the December issue and not later than December 24 for the February issue. Submissions should be sent electronically to sentencinglaw @ gmail.com with a clear indication of the author and the authors professional affiliation. All judges, lawyers and other sentencing practitioners, legal academics and sentencing researchers, and any others with an informed interest in federal sentencing law, policy and practice are encouraged to submit a commentary.
November 13, 2016 at 11:06 PM | Permalink
Comments
I'm probably going to write on how Obama sucked on clemency and how Trump is going to make clemency great again.
Posted by: Don't Ask | Nov 14, 2016 1:38:12 PM
Sounds like a great topic good to me. Certainly DJT cannot do worse in next four years than Prez Obama did during his first term.
Posted by: Doug B. | Nov 14, 2016 7:26:00 PM
Post a comment
Following a preliminary ruling by a federal judge last week suggesting that the court will hold Airbnb responsible for conducting transactions with hosts who are violating San Francisco law, the short-term rental company has done an about-face and said that it will cooperate with the city after all, as the Chronicle is reporting. Chris Lehane, the company's global policy chief, told the paper, "This is a serious proposal to once and for all address the core issues that exist in San Francisco. We can sit across the table from the city and address the issues in a win-win scenario."
Last Tuesday, U.S. District Judge James Donato ruled against a preliminary injunction sought by Airbnb that would have halted the implementation of a new ordinance passed by SF's Board of Supervisors in June. That ordinance would put Airbnb and competitor Homeaway on the hook for fines of $1000 per day per illegal listing if and when the companies did business with hosts trying to skirt local law. Airbnb had been arguing that the 1996 Communications Decency Act absolved them of responsibility for the content posted by users of the site, however Judge Donato said that because the ordinance was written to specify that a transaction had to take place before a fine was levied, the issue was no longer about content. Donato sent the company and the city back to the negotiating table to come up with a mutually agreeable compromise on enforcement of the so-called Airbnb law, with another hearing scheduled for Thursday, November 17.
Though they've resisted doing so now for several years as SF has sought to legislate against the loss of habitable units from the long-term rental market, Airbnb now tells the Chronicle that they are willing to release names, addresses, and guest stay data from their hosts' accounts in San Francisco, and that they will rejigger the system to disallow hosts from continuing to rent units beyond the city's 90-day per year cap which pertains to the rentals of entire homes or units, but not to hosts who rent out rooms in units they occupy. They will also have to crack down on the thousands of hosts who continue to use the site but have not registered, as they're obligated to do, with the city's Office of Short-Term Rentals, which requires them to pay hotel taxes and Airbnb is reportedly addressing this issue by creating their own online registration system, guaranteeing that all hosts are automatically registered with the city.
Airbnb also says they will prevent the use of their site by owners of units where Ellis Act evictions have taken place. Earlier this year, Airbnb vowed to crack down on hosts in SF who were listing multiple units on the site, which is also illegal, and which they said was being done in 20 percent of listings in SF.
John Cote, spokesperson for City Attorney Dennis Herrera, tells the Chronicle, "Were encouraged that Airbnb appears to be taking steps to meet their requirements under the law, and we look forward to them coming into full compliance."
Meanwhile, the Board of Supervisors is set this week to discuss making the cap on full-unit rentals even more stringent, 60 days per year down from 90, and perhaps Airbnb is hoping that their willingness to crack down will keep the city from making this move. A previous attempt to curtail rentals and cap full-unit rentals at 75 days per year (Prop F) was rejected by voters in 2015.
In related news, NBC Bay Area is reporting on the problem of SF homeowners who are on the hook for thousands of dollars in city fines because they had tenants who were using Airbnb and other platforms to rent their units illegally. One woman, who received a notice of violation from the city for her condo in Alamo Square, says her total fine is $22,000 despite the fact that it was her tenant who was acting illegally and not her.
Previously: Airbnb Dealt Blow By Federal Judge In Their Challenge To SF Crackdown On Illegal Rentals
Airbnb Reveals 20% Of SF Listings Are By Hosts Listing Multiple Homes, Vows Crackdown
16th BART plaza in SF. Wall of Empathy. pic.twitter.com/CQlN5iznNg Jeff Hunt (@jeffnhunt) November 14, 2016
Inspired by a subway tunnel in New York that has become an outpouring of grief and messages of support in the wake of the Democalypse last week, walls at three SF BART stations became "Walls of Empathy" Monday, with Post-It notes being shared by sad but defiant San Franciscans. Walls are ready for your messages of hope and empathy at 24th and Mission, 16th and Mission, and Montgomery Street stations, and they already display phrases like, "Lick wounds. Make plan. Rise up."
New York artist Matthew Chavez, a.k.a. Levee, started his "Subway Therapy" wall last Wednesday, providing Post-Its for strangers to leave notes to each other and a message that simply said "Express Yourself" in a long underground tunnel that connects the Sixth and Seventh Avenue stations at 14th Street in Manhattan. According to ABC News, more than 1500 notes have gone up on the walls so far.
People write supportive notes after Trump's election on a "Wall of Empathy" at the 16th St BART #Election2016 (Credit: Rachel Roberson) pic.twitter.com/MYvxBb2HaG KQED News (@KQEDnews) November 14, 2016 Close up of Wall of Empathy, 16th & Mission station entrance, San Francisco pic.twitter.com/tM3MN0taUr Newt Bailey (@nmbailey) November 14, 2016
According to CBS 5, the SF Walls of Empathy may only be temporary as they were installed in above-ground areas at the three BART stations.
Organizers Muriel MacDonald, Tamilla Mir and Melissa Goldman issued a statement saying, "In this time when so many members of our community feel threatened, we hope our Wall of Empathy will communicate support and love, as well as help those who participate to process their feelings. Hate crimes and hateful rhetoric have no place in our city. We are stronger together."
Previously: Thousands Join In Peaceful Sunday Protests At Lake Merritt, Golden Gate Park, Market Street
China Live, the ambitious, four-story food hall and restaurant project from restaurateur George Chen (he owned the former Shanghai 1930, and originally opened Betelnut in 1995), has finally got an opening timeframe set for January, just shy of two years later than it was originally set to open, in March 2015. Eater reports that the much-delayed project at 644-660 Broadway, which has been in the works for at least three years and under construction for more than two (SFist first talked about it in August 2014), intends to be open in time for Chinese New Year.
As we had heard in years past, China Live is intended to be akin to Eataly in New York, with multiple components under one roof including retail marketplace, several bars, a tea house, and a pair of restaurants including a fine dining, destination spot.
The latter is called Eight Tables, and will contain just that, eight tables wherefrom you can enjoy a 12-course seasonal prix fixe for about $200 per person, at least in 2014 dollars.
In addition to the retail-focused Marketplace on the ground floor, there will also be the more casual Market Restaurant & Bar, which we learned earlier would have 155 seats and boast "five specialized exhibition kitchens, including a noodle bar, a dim sum and dumplings kitchen, a Chinese charcuterie and barbecue station, a seafood and raw bar, and a rice table and seasonal vegetable kitchen." Also on the ground floor will be a tea shop called Oolong Cafe.
Chen is working with his wife Cindy Wong-Chen on the project, and along with Eight Tables on the second floor will be a a craft cocktail bar dubbed Madames Parlour (at least that was the original name) with 42 seats, and an event space.
Eater also reports that Joey Altman, executive chef/owner of Menlo Parks Wild Hare, will direct culinary operations, and Chi-Feng Lin has been hired as chef de cuisine, presumably for both restaurants, though that is unclear.
Stay tuned for more as we learn it.
SIOUX CITY | The bitter, partisan battle between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton to win the presidency came to an Tuesday. The outcome was a surprise for many, since polls had predicted a Clinton win rather than the Trump victory that played out.
Americans who got wrapped up in the long election slog have described feeling shocked or bruised and having a difficult time finding their feet again. Getting into a new headspace is an essential next step for some.
Here are five tips for moving on, gleaned from varying sources and even some friends.
(1) Limit input from social media and traditional news sources. Reducing exposure to media will stop the circulation of anxiety-causing election narratives. Stop the alerts on smartphones or go cold turkey on news.
(2) Exercise and be active. Exertion outdoors in raking leaves or a longer dog walk, or inside by pumping iron or doing minute-long planks refreshes the body and brain.
(3) Figure out your next new thing. Make a huge pivot and take on the hobby or pursuit that's been tucked in the recesses of the mind. Finally learn how to play an instrument (or a new one beyond the flute you once played in junior high). Buy art supplies and see where it takes you. Volunteer for a school or social agency in the community.
(4) Double up on your sleep or mood-altering medications. Be forewarned, this tip doesn't have medical backing, but likely has a certain allure for some. Maybe downing a favorite comfort good is a better recommendation. Lots of that.
(5) Or more holistically from the fourth option, take a tip from Henry David Thoreau, a renowned author, naturalist and philosopher, promoting simple living as America in the 19th century became more industrialized.
"I do believe in simplicity. It is astonishing as well as sad, how many trivial affairs even the wisest man thinks he must attend to in a day... So simplify the problem of life, distinguish the necessary and the real," Thoreau wrote.
NEW YORK At one point in the "Soundbreaking" documentary series, producer Paul Epworth describes a freshly heartbroken Adele singing him her new song, "Rolling in the Deep," pounding out the beat and her frustrations with her foot on a slab of wood.
He shows how her foot-stomping was incorporated into the rhythm track of the recording, which became one of this century's biggest hits. It's one of several insights packed into the eight-hour series that begins Monday at 9 p.m. on most PBS stations.
The series was the brainchild of Beatles producer George Martin, who died March 8. The sprawling overview was wrestled into shape by American producer Jeff Dupre, who made sure it was something other than a technology wonk's paradise.
"You want it to not be a history lesson but an experience for the audience," Dupre said. "They'll hear a few new things, but also enjoy hearing it."
The series is divided into several topics, including the role of a producer, the use of sampling and how the recording studio became an instrument. Each episode is packed with songs and personal stories. Tom Petty describes how Jeff Lynne stopped him upon first hearing the chord progression that became "Free Fallin'," and Questlove talks about being entranced by the sound of "Rapper's Delight."
Giles Martin was a partner in the project, becoming more active with his father's illness.
"His life was dedicated to making people happy through sound," he said. "If you think about it, it was really as simple as that. He tried to push boundaries all the time within that. The innovation, not just with himself but with a lot of people, he thought was quite an interesting story to tell."
After the Beatles left the road, they partnered with Martin using the studio as a palette. "Soundbreaking" discusses the making of "Tomorrow Never Knows," where Martin was charged with bringing some of John Lennon's offbeat ideas to life.
For much of the 1900s, the goal of recording technology was to make a listener experience being in a room as music was made, said Giles Martin, who went into the family business. In the 1960s and beyond with the constant introduction of new technology, that changed.
Before being assigned to a young Liverpool band no one had heard of, George Martin produced comedy records, where he was accustomed to incorporating sound effects into recordings. With his background, he would have never gotten the job as Beatles producer in today's world, "which is kind of an interesting lesson that hasn't been learned since," Martin said.
The surviving Beatles, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, both participate in "Soundbreaking." More than 150 artists and producers are interviewed.
Besides George Martin and the Beatles, "Soundbreaking" talks about the 1960s work of Brian Wilson and Phil Spector. Because of Spector piling on the instruments, "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" doesn't sound like a breakup, "it sounds like the end of the world," Dupre said.
Fortunately, the series doesn't stay stuck in a bygone era. There are artists you wish you'd heard from Prince and Bruce Springsteen come to mind but "Soundbreaking" keeps up with changing styles and the diversity of creators. In the first episode, Dr. Dre explains that "it's very easy to make a hip-hop record. It's not easy to make a good hip-hop record."
Although it's not something that Giles Martin wanted to spend much time on, the series doesn't avoid the masking power of recording technology: auto-tune's ability to make someone sound much better than they actually are.
"This is more a celebration of what is great about music," he said. "Since pop music has begun, there are people who have sold records who can't sing. It's not a new thing."
Mostly, "Soundbreaking" tells stories about how artists as fans were excited by certain sounds they heard on records and how they aspired to create something new themselves.
"If you watch all the episodes, you will hear music in a new way, because you will have a greater understanding of how it was created," Dupre said.
The gravity of the existential threat we face from Islamic Jihad is truly of epic proportions. It is essentially a battle pitting free-civilized man against a totalitarian barbarian. What is at stake is the struggle for our very soul - namely who we are and what we represent. The lives that were sacrificed for individual rights and freedoms that we've come to cherish are being chiseled away from right under our noses by the stealth jihadists. And many of us are in denial and totally clueless.
The left's appeasement and pandering to evil is nothing new. What makes their utopian delusions so infuriating and unpardonable is that it is not only they who will have to pay the consequences, and deservedly, so, they are thwarting and undermining our best efforts at resistance and are thus dragging us down in the process as well.
By Peter Lancz,, the head of the Raoul Wallenberg World Campaign Against Racism.
The St. Mary's County Museum Board of Trustees November meeting, originally scheduled for Monday, November 14, has been rescheduled for Monday, December 12. The meeting will take place at 8:30 a.m. in Room 14 inside the Potomac Building, 23115 Leonard Hall Drive, Leonardtown, Maryland.Museum Board of Trustees meetings are generally held every other month, on the second Monday of the month, beginning in January. Details on the dates and locations of 2017 meetings will be updated in the near future on the county website at www.co.saint-marys.md.us/docs/BoardsCommitteesCommissionsSchedule.pdf For more information, please contact the St. Mary's County Museum Division at 301-769-3235.The St. Mary's County Planning Commission meeting, scheduled for Monday, November 14, has been canceled. The applicant has removed their project from the agenda.The next scheduled meeting of the Planning Commission is Monday, December 12.Maryland is home to a number of outstanding senior volunteers, and St. Mary's County is fortunate to have three citizens recognized recently. Sam Brown was the recipient of the Outstanding Maryland Rural Health Volunteer Award in early October and Gail Murdock and Anne Marum were inducted into the Maryland Senior Citizens Hall of Fame on October 27.Brown, a member of the St. Mary's County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), serves as President of A Community That Shares (ACTS), a non-profit organization that provides free convalescent medical equipment to persons in need. Recipients include persons with disabilities, frail seniors and veterans, as well as individuals recovering from an illness, injury, and/or medical procedure. The ACTS warehouse stores an array of assistive medical equipment available for loan, including wheelchairs, walkers, canes and hospital beds.In addition to his work with ACTS, Brown is a member of the Garvey Senior Activity Center Council (GSAC), board member of the St. Clements Hundred, member of the Friends of Colton Point Lighthouse, the Welfare and Employment Specialist with his church and serves with the St. Mary's County Interfaith Council coordinating snack packs for Benjamin Banneker Elementary School.With so many accomplishments, Brown remains humble."You don't do it for the praise," he said. "You do it for the good feeling you get in your heart."Among his many activities, Murdock serves along with Brown on the GSAC. He is also a member of the RSVP Community Advisory Committee, member of the Commission on Aging, Commander of the American Legion Post 221, Financial Officer for Voiture Locale 456, Assistant Judge Advocate for Southern Maryland District American Legion, charter member of the Mechanicsville Optimist Club, and a founding member of Helen's Veterans, Inc.Murdock got involved because he'd seen friends retire then withdraw from life and sit at home. It wasn't a life he wanted for himself, so he began volunteering."It's what I do, it keeps me busy," Murdock said. "I have a philosophygo home when you can't go anywhere else."Marum volunteers at Summerseat Farm, assisting with wedding planning. Loffler Senior Activity Center Operations Manager Joyce Raum, whose son recently had a wedding at Summerseat, has firsthand experience working with Marum."Anne's role with weddings at Summerseat (a major fundraising activity for the farm) starts with arranging the initial tour of the property for the intended and ends only after everything has been removed from the property, often the day after the wedding. Anne tends to her duty as the wedding coordinator lovingly, tastefully, respectful of individual preferences and most professionally. In our case, it was Anne to whom we turned with each and every inquiry. She had a thorough and fitting response each time. Anne made herself present and available through every step of the pre- and post-wedding planning."Marum has been working with Summerseat for 10 years. She also helped start St. Mary's County Christmas in April and served on the board of directors of the organization for a number of years. For Marum, volunteerism and community service has been part of her life since she was a child."It's been my family's way, it's been what I've done all along," she said. "It's important to give back."Looking to get involved? Give us a call! St. Mary's County Department of Aging & Human Services is always looking for volunteers. Individuals over 55 can enroll in the RSVP program and become matched with one of the many opportunities in the community. Visit www.stmarysmd.com/aging/rsvp-overview.asp or call RSVP Program Manager Norine Rowe at 301-737-5670 ext. 1653. Teens can get involved as well. Check out the Teen Court program at www.stmarysmd.com/teencourt/ or call Teen Court Coordinator Greg Jones at 301-475-4200, ext. *1852.
Exoneree Sabein Burgess hangs out in his hometown of Baltimore on Tuesday, Oct. 20. Though the Maryland legislature has passed several laws facilitating the vacation of wrongful convictions, advocates and lawmakers say local prosecutors are blocking further progress. (Photo courtesy of Sabein Burgess)
ANNAPOLIS
(Nov. 14, 2016)Sabein Burgess wasted no time trying to prove his innocence.Convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in June 1995, the then-24-year-old waited just 10 days after his trial before filing a motion for a new one.The act was his first step in a battle that would last 19 years, during which the Baltimore resident would spend the prime of his life in a jail cell."From the day I was locked up, I was saying I was innocent," Burgess, now 46, said. "From the night I spent in homicide to the day I came home (from prison)."Baltimore City prosecutors had charged Burgess with the murder of his then-girlfriend, Michelle Dyson, whom he discovered fatally shot in the basement of her Baltimore home that fall. Evidence against him included gunpowder residue discovered on his hands; none was ever found on his body or clothes, according to the National Registry of Exonerations."It was a heart-wrenching experience," Burgess, who was holding Dyson's body when police arrived, said. "Nobody can really understand what it's like to be innocent and still go about your daily activities as if you were guilty."Just three years after Burgess's conviction, a man named Charles Dorsey wrote multiple letters confessing to the murder, according to The National Registry of Exonerations, a law school project that tracks every known exoneration since 1989. He was then serving a 45-year prison term on different charges brought after Dyson's death.However, it took 16 yearsspanning multiple motions for new trials, the uncovering of new evidence, and the involvement of innocence advocatesbefore the prosecution agreed to vacate Burgess's conviction."To do something about him (Dorsey), they would've had to help me, and they didn't want to help me," Burgess said. "It wasn't in their best interest to admit they were wrong and I was right."You look back on all those years, and all the stuff they had," Burgess told Capital News Service. "People keep asking me all the time why they didn't do somethingif I knew that, I'd be rich."In Maryland, prosecutors and judges make it unusually difficult to overturn wrongful convictions, lawmakers and advocates say. Though the state boasts a Democratic electorate and a progressive legislature, its judicial and prosecutorial climate is surprisingly unconducive to securing exonerations for the wrongfully convicted; meaning cases take far longer than expected."It is, for some reason, incredibly hard in Maryland to get prosecutors or judges to admit that people who are innocent get convicted," said Shawn Armbrust, executive director of the Mid-Atlantic Innocence Project, an advocacy group that helped Burgess become exonerated. "It's surprising, because it's Marylandthe legislature has been great, it's a progressive statebut there's not much enthusiasm in other areas of the system."If we were talking about Alabama, this wouldn't be a story. But we're not."To the layman, Maryland may appear poised to be a nationwide leader in exonerations.Some of the most high-profile cases took place here; Marylander Kirk Bloodsworth became the first American to be spared the death penalty by DNA evidence, in 1993.Most critically, its Democrat-controlled legislature is one of the most progressive in the country on the topic.Since 2008, some members of the Maryland General Assembly have worked closely with innocence advocates to push through some of the most exoneration-friendly laws in the nation, among them progressive policies concerning eyewitness identification, false confessions, and post-conviction DNA testing.In 2009, lawmakers enacted a statute that permits a convicted person to file a petition for a "writ of actual innocence" based upon a claim of newly discovered evidencea relatively low bar, experts say.However, these efforts have been stunted by state prosecutors and judges who appear unwilling to entertain the possibility of actual innocence, advocates and lawmakers say."The intent of the legislature has been to provide a mechanism for people who have been wrongfully convicted to have their cases heard and heard in an expeditious manner, but we don't see that happening," said Michele Nethercott, director of the University of Baltimore Innocence Project Clinic. "The legislative branch has been quite responsive; however, other players in the criminal justice system have not been."This contrast is unique to Maryland, said Rebecca Brown, policy director for New York-based advocacy group Innocence Project."It's extremely rare that all of the innocence-related activity is centered in the legislature," Brown said. "Usually it's a cumulative effort."In illustration, Armbrust points to neighboring Washington, D.C., where its Superior Court initiated forming a committee to examine wrongful convictions, and nearby Virginia, where she says multiple prosecutors are "more receptive to these cases."Utah, Alaska, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota and New Jersey also have courts that have issued rules to streamline the exoneration process, Brown said."That hasn't happened in Maryland," Armbrust said.As a result, trying to secure exonerations for those wrongfully convicted takes longer than it does in other states.The nation has seen 1,913 exonerations since 1989, according to the National Registry of Exonerations. Maryland has seen 24, and neighboring states Virginia and Pennsylvania have seen 43 and 59, respectively, in that time.Those wrongfully convicted in Maryland have spent an average of 11.3 years locked up; almost three years longer than the national average of 8.8 years, according to the National Registry of Exonerations."We see enormous delays," Nethercott said.State judges are hesitant to grant motions for new trials. And, when they do, they delay the docketing of the cases, Nethercott said.Moreover, state prosecutors and judges frequently oppose the releaselet alone the testingof new evidence, one of the ways they can make it extremely difficult for defense attorneys to secure objects that may help prove their client's innocence, Nethercott said.Malcolm Bryant, whose 1999 murder conviction was vacated in May, was also prosecuted in Baltimore City. It took him and his legal team eight yearsand multiple trialsto obtain the release of the DNA evidence that proved him innocent."When the person is in the category of being wrongfully convicted, to put so many additional obstacles in their path is just immoral and counterproductive," state Sen. Delores Kelley, D-Baltimore County, said."Often the response is not only surprising," Nethercott said. "The level of outright hostility we often encounter in connection with these claimsthat's a little discouraging."One possible reason prosecutors and judges could be so opposed is that vacating a conviction contradicts everything they work toward."It's hard for them to think, 'I did something that resulted in someone getting convicted,'" Nethercott said. "They view themselves as advocating on behalf of those victimizedthe idea that they may have participated in bringing about an injustice is at odds with their self-concept."Another potential explanation is that entertaining the idea of wrongful convictions would mean having to evaluate the effectiveness of the criminal justice system."There's a fear that if you admit innocent people are in jail, you open up the system to too many questions," Armbrust said.Rather, prosecutors in Maryland "tend to like the status quo," said Kelley."They do what they think will keep everybody comfortable," Kelley said. "It's sad, but I think that's impacting (exonerations) significantly."The state's prosecutorial and judicial communities are taking steps to address the issue of wrongful convictionsjust at a slower pace than the legislature, said Lauren Lipscomb, chief of the Baltimore City Conviction Integrity Unit."We're moving in the right direction," said Lipscomb. "I just think that with most things in the criminal justice field, things tend to be slow-moving."However, some prosecutors say the state already has "robust post-conviction procedures," rendering any further progress on their part unnecessary."There are a number of places to make sure that we have it right with the right defendants," said Baltimore County State's Attorney Scott Shellenberger. "A lot of things have happened. We've made a lot of progress."Shellenberger says the legislature's progressive stance on exoneration means that action on behalf of the state's prosecutors is redundant."I don't know how much farther we have to go," Shellenberger said. "We got a lot of laws."Former Maryland Attorney General Douglas Gansler says securing an exoneration isn't difficultthere just aren't any innocent people in jail in Maryland."It's not hard to get someone exonerated," said Gansler, who held office from 2007 to 2016. "There just aren't people who aren't guilty in jail."When asked if he thought the state could use more Conviction Review Units like Baltimore City's, Gansler said Maryland doesn't need them."Every case that should be reviewed is reviewed," Gansler said. "There's no question of actual innocence."The legislature is "skewed" to favor defendants, meaning that those accused are afforded so many protections that they are rarelyif everwrongfully convicted, Gansler said."There are just very, very, very innocent few people sitting in jail in Maryland," Gansler said. "There is nothing a lawyer would rather do than defend an actually innocent person, they are just extremely far and in-between."Looking back on that October night, Burgess says he bears no regret in remaining at the scene of the crime. If he hadn't, Dyson's young children would have discovered her body instead of him, he said."I slept well (in jail) every night because I did the right thing, even though it got me in a situation I had to endure," Burgess said. "Had I left, they would've had to have seen what I sawand I wouldn't wish that on anybody."But that doesn't make what happened to me right."
(SS) About 500 protesters marched through the streets of Fort Lauderdale on Sunday night, chanting anti-Trump slogans and engaging a few observers in heated debate.
"Build bridges not walls," they chanted as they crossed the Intracoastal bridge.
The protesters were a mix of young and old, many holding posters. One held American flags.
Just minutes into the march down Las Olas Boulevard, some of the protesters got into heated arguments with people who were sitting in restaurant outdoor patios.
One woman and an elderly man exchanged verbal jabs.
"Communist!" the man yelled at the woman. After several minutes, the woman rejoined the march.
"That's my dad," said Cathy Josey, of Pompano Beach. "He's been calling me a communist since I was 20 years old because I vote Democratic, he's the original Rush Limbaugh viewer. I haven't had anything to do with him in five years, there's no Thanksgiving between us."
Josey said she fears that Trump will follow through on his many campaign promises, especially those relating to immigration. "He changes so much you really don't know what he'll do, all you can go off is what he's done in the past."
The protesters marched east on Las Olas to A1A, both of which were shut down to traffic by police.
The march carried on for about three hours. After hitting A1A, protesters retraced their steps back to the downtown area and at one point walked to Broward Boulevard. It ended up back at the park at approximately 9:15 pm, with a short rally before they disbanded.
"The people voted, Hillary Clinton, not Trump," said Gabrielle Carline, one of the organizers. "We should get rid of the Electoral College.
"Trump is is responsible to get up and denounce all that hate that he created."
Gail Koranyi stood on the sidewalk near the shops and restaurants on Las Olas and shook her head as the marchers passed.
"I voted for Trump, but even if I didn't, I would tell them, grow up, that's the way it's gonna be, and if I had voted for Hillary, same thing. I am just sick over this."
"Hillary is a liar and Trump, he's a billionaire and we need some like him because we're in a financial bad way," said Steve Greco, sitting at a table with friends.
One woman was arrested on charges of disorderly conduct on Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale Police spokeswoman Tracy Figone said.
The brisk march, cleared by police on motorcycles, was otherwise peaceful. It was organized through a social media page and started at Huizenga Plaza.
Mostly peaceful protests have been held in more than a dozen cities across the country. On Sunday, more than 1,000 people marched in Manhattan, carrying signs in English and Spanish saying "Hate won't make us great" and chanting "We are here to stay."
Protests were also held Sunday in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Philadelphia. In Oregon, police said they arrested 71 people late Saturday and early Sunday during anti-Trump protests. A man in Portland was shot and wounded Saturday during a confrontation, police said.
On Friday, a mostly peaceful anti-Trump protest has held by more than an estimated 400 who gathered at the foot of Trump Plaza in downtown West Palm Beach. The crowd kept off roads until a couple hundred protesters left to march through the downtown and briefly blocked traffic on Flagler Drive.
In Miami on Friday night, a crowd of 300 to 400 people who gathered at Bayfront Park grew to what police estimated was several thousand who spilled into the streets and blocked major roads including Interstate 95, the Miami Herald reported. Another group gathered Saturday in Wynwood.
Le Collectif Cheikh Yassine a organise un certain nombre dactivites et de festivites pour les enfants de Gaza sous le theme La joie des enfants de Gaza pour lAid . Ces activites ont commence le premier jour de lAid et continue jusquau 4eme jour de lAid dans la bande de Gaza.
Plusieurs activites, ont ete organisees parmi lesquelles : des competitions recompensees par des prix, des jeux, des animations et des chants presentes par un groupe ainsi que des distributions de cadeaux et daides financieres.
NASA International Space Station On-Orbit Status 10 November 2016. NASA
The three Expedition 50 crew members today are working to unload cargo and set up new computer servers onboard the station. In Kazakhstan, the next trio to launch to the International Space are continuing their final prelaunch preparations.
Commander Shane Kimbrough completed work on Wednesday on the Oxygen Generation System (OGS) in the U.S. side of the International Space Station. The OGS was down for maintenance as he and ground specialists troubleshot the device due to a low voltage signature. Teams in Mission control conducted checkouts of the system today and reactivated it successfully, enabling OGS to once more supply oxygen to the space station crew. Final checkouts on the system are on the plan for Friday.
Today, Kimbrough set up new laptop computers to allow ground specialist to load required software. He also unloaded additional cargo from the attached Orbital ATK Cygnus cargo craft.
Cosmonauts Sergey Ryzhikov and Andrey Borisenko performed routine maintenance on the ventilation system inside the Russian segment and took part in the Pilot-T experiment, which assesses the cosmonauts ability to perform complex tasks at different points during their spaceflight.
Three new station crew members are in Kazakhstan preparing for a Nov. 17 launch to the station. Veteran station residents Peggy Whitson of NASA and Oleg Novitskiy of Roscosmos, along with first-time space flyer Thomas Pesquet of the European Space Agency will take a two-day, 34-orbit trip to the station after their liftoff and stay in space till May. The group reviewed flight plans and took part in traditional preflight events, including a media day and the ceremonial raising of flags and planting of trees.
On-Orbit Status Report
Oxygen Generation System (OGS) Maintenance: This morning the crew took a return-to-ground sample of the OGS Recirculation Loop and restowed all tools and hardware the crew has used the last 2 days for the OGS maintenance. The calibration settings for the OGA were updated based on performance this morning and the unit is now in Process, producing 2 kg of O2 per day. The current plan is to stay in this configuration overnight. Tomorrow, OGA will be put in a safe configuration to allow the crew to inspect the H2 ORU QD.
Glacier-1 Buffer Troubleshooting: On October 17, 2016 Glacier-1 internal memory disk buffer reached 99% and was not responding to clean up commands. Glacier-1 was unpowered to prevent the unit from reaching max capacity on the memory disk and risk file corruption. Today, the crew connected the Glacier into the EXpedite PRocessing of Experiments to Space Station (EXPRESS) Rack-2 Laptop Computer (ELC) for ground controllers to command through Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) and successfully cleared the internal memory disk buffer to below 70%. Glacier-1 is currently not in use and the next planned science operations are scheduled for SpX-10.
Fluid Science Laboratory (FSL) Software Update: To overcome the non-functioning high rate data link nominally used to downlink data from the FSL, the crew connected the Multi-purpose Computer and Communications (MPCC) Laptop to the FSL via S-Video cable. The crew was unsuccessful in updating the software on the MPCC laptop, possibly due to a file error. Ground teams are evaluating the software files used during the update. European Space Agency (ESA) plans to have the Simulation of Geophysical Fluid Flow Under Microgravity-2 (Geoflow-2) experiments video and data downlink through the Joint Station Local Area Network (JSL) by connecting it to the MPCC. The Geoflow-2 experiment, first run is scheduled for November 14. Geoflow-2 studies heat and fluid flow currents within the Earths mantle. Geoflow-2 aims to improve computational methods that scientists and engineers use to understand and predict the processes in the Earths mantle that lead to volcanic eruptions, plate tectonics and earthquakes.
Station Support Computer Server Load: The crew deployed and configured the new SSC Server2 ZBook laptop to allow ground specialist to load required software. The ground completed the SSC Server2 load. This afternoon, the crew moved the Ethernet and power cables to SSC Server1 and prepared the laptop for ground teams to load that laptop. SSC Server1 will host ISS-Server1 after the transition planned on Friday. SSC Server1 and 2 are the first use of the new ZBook model laptop onboard ISS.
Orbital ATK (OA)-5 Cargo Operations: The crew performed 1.5 hours of Cygnus cargo transfer operations today. As of the last report the crew had completed 19.5 hours of cargo transfer with an estimated 7.5 hours remaining.
International Docking Adapter (IDA) Survey: The robotics team completed the dynamic surveys that simulate the view of an incoming docking vehicle as it approaches the recently installed IDA at Pressurized Mating Adapter 2 (PMA-2). These surveys used the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator (SPDM) Camera Light Pan Tilt Assembly (CLPA) and pre-configured automatic trajectories to simulate vehicle motion. The approaches were performed in various lighting conditions.
Todays Planned Activities
All activities were completed unless otherwise noted.
In Flight Maintainence (IFM) Oxygen Generator System (OGS) Sample
Soyuz 732 Samsung Tablet Recharge, Initiate
SM Ventilation Subsystem Preventive Maintenance. Group ?2
Finding the cause of current overload in FGB ???31 exchange bus via SM-FGB Docking Assembly -X.
Oxygen Generation System (OGS) Photodocument and Restow
GLACIER Cable Connect
FSL MPCC Laptop Installation Hardware Pre-Gathering
FSL Stowage Container Opening and S-Video Cable Retrieval
FSL Stowage Container Closure
MPCC1 USB Stick move from SSC11 Laptop to MPCC Laptop
FSL MPCC Laptop Relocation, Powering On & Software Image Installation
PILOT-T. Experiment Ops.
Station Support Computer Server 2 Load Prep
Soyuz 732 Samsung Tablet Recharge, Terminate
Move Cables between Station Support Computer Servers
Station Support Computer Server 2 Load Prep
??? maintenance
Progress 433 (DC1) Transfers and IMS Ops
Crew Handover Conference
GLACIER Cable Disconnect
Transfer Cygnus Cargo Operations
Cygnus Cargo Operations Conference
FSL MPCC Laptop Reboot
FSL MPCC Laptop Hardware Relocation and Powering on Laptop
FSL AVM brackets installation & Facility Core Element release in preparation of scientific operations
Station Support Computer Server 1 Tear Down
IMS Update
Completed Task List Items
None
Ground Activities
All activities were completed unless otherwise noted.
4B3 Battery Reconditioning
SSC Server1 and 2 software load
OGS activation
Three-Day Look Ahead:
Friday, 11/11: GCM Troubleshooting, PFS PuFF Calibration Syringe Maintenance
Saturday, 11/12: Weekly Housekeeping, Crew Off Duty
Sunday, 11/13: Crew Off Duty
QUICK ISS Status Environmental Control Group:
Component Status
Elektron On
Vozdukh Manual
[???] 1 SM Air Conditioner System (SKV1) Off
[???] 2 SM Air Conditioner System (SKV2) Off
Carbon Dioxide Removal Assembly (CDRA) Lab Standby
Carbon Dioxide Removal Assembly (CDRA) Node 3 Operate
Major Constituent Analyzer (MCA) Lab Operate
Major Constituent Analyzer (MCA) Node 3 Idle
Oxygen Generation Assembly (OGA) Process
Urine Processing Assembly (UPA) Standby
Trace Contaminant Control System (TCCS) Lab Off
Trace Contaminant Control System (TCCS) Node 3 Full Up
Soyuz MS-03 NASA
Soyuz MS-03 spacecraft its moved toward its encapsulation into the upper stage of its Soyuz booster Nov. 9. at Baikonur Cosmodrome.
Expedition 50-51 crew members Peggy Whitson of NASA, Oleg Novitskiy of the Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos) and Thomas Pesquet of the European Space Agency will launch on the Soyuz Nov. 18, Baikonur time, for a six-month mission on the International Space Station. NASA/Alexander Vysotsky
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One of the largest gatherings to date was present in London on Sunday (Nov. 13) for the fourth session organized by Ontario Racing (OR) regarding a proposed long-term funding framework for horse racing in the province.
More than 50 people attended the Sunday session at the Metroland Media Agriplex, with a very engaged crowd discussing the framework with OR Executive Director Rob Cook and representing the Alliance was Western Fair District COO Mike Woods.
Questions and comments from those in attendance mirrored many of the sentiments and concerns put forth by the harness racing industry in the other jurisdictions. Concerns were presented regarding purses; that with increasing costs these purses are insufficient, and that to make it worthwhile to race, some racetracks may have to be closed.
The mayor of Lakeshore, Tom Bain issued concern that his local track in Leamington is one of those on the outside looking in. According to Bain, 2,000 jobs will disappear and there seems to be little to no discussion of a regional focus within this framework. He feels that the horse racing industry doesn't have a voice in this format going forward and they deserve one. Cook noted that OR needs to know about economic impacts and the facts from all stakeholders which is why these consultations are being scheduled to better understand options and alternatives going forward.
More comments came from the audience regarding a voice in this process after the framework is complete. Legal counsel from the Lakeshore group mentioned the newly-formed horse people's alliance and noted that it's growing in numbers. Cook acknowledged those statements and confirmed OR is aware.
The discussion continued on the interim OR board, a board making decisions in which some feel they don't have a voice. Cook stated there will be a full governance review and associations are welcome to express interest in being a part of the finalized board, with those at the session stating that board needs to be finalized as soon as possible.
Further comments came with a sense of frustration, noting that information like the operating costs at Standardbred Alliance racetracks were not publicly released and why that is the case.
Another question came from the aspect of urgency, asking what the rush is for this process. Cook replied that delaying and waiting further hampers bringing certainty to the industry, and confirmed the need to re-engage OLG on creating additional funding.
Many asked what OLG is doing with respect to industry integration, with Cook noting that the industry integration has begun but communication will be forwarded regarding the need for this process to move faster with more cohesion. He noted a committee is looking at products but there are a number of challenges that go along with such a process.
The framework discussion shifts next to Ottawa for a session on Wednesday night at Rideau Carleton Raceway.
This framework, subject to government approval, will be presented to the industry for feedback. If approved, this framework will provide the industry as a whole from owners, trainers and breeders to racetrack operators with the certainty they need to make investments in their businesses.
ORs primary objective, to this point, has been to engage directly with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. and the government to provide input to the development of a road map to sustainable funding for the industry. Now, ORs focus will shift towards engagement with the industry as a whole to garner feedback on this proposed framework.
This proposed framework is based on key principles including:
A new racetrack alliance: all Ontario racetracks that conduct live racing will be invited to create a new alliance. It is proposed that Woodbine Entertainment Group (WEG) will serve as the administrator of this new alliance.
Longer-term, predictable funding: Ontarios horseracing industry can invest in their businesses beyond 2021.
Ongoing accountability and transparency: decision-making based on evidence and agreed upon success indicators.
Industry leadership: racetrack business plans, race dates, purse levels will be aligned across racetracks for a coordinated approach. Ontario Racing will play a key industry leadership role in the future.
Next steps include widespread in person conversations with the industry about these principles, across Ontario. Sessions will take place in every region of the province that has horse racing. The following consultation schedule has been updated. (dates subject to change)
Wednesday, November 16 - 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. - Ottawa (Rideau Carleton Raceway)
Saturday, November 19 - 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. - Port Perry (Golfer's Dream Golf Club, Scugog)
Tuesday, November 22 - 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. - Milton (Gambrel Barn, Country Heritage Park)
Ontario Racing encourages all interested parties to submit their feedback about the future of the industry by accessing its online consultation portal here. The portal includes a series of questions and the option to attach a word document, for those who would like to share additional thoughts. The proposed long-term funding framework was outlined in a webinar, hosted on October 19, and can be viewed here.
Ontario Racing will collate feedback from the industry, and this perspective will inform recommendations to government.
There is an update in regard to the status of horseman John Beaton, who was one of the drivers involved in the serious accident this past Saturday (November 12) at Northside Downs in Nova Scotia.
Trot Insider reported on Saturday that the accident occurred after the opening quarter-mile in the fourth race when I Am Able and driver Danny Campbell moved up to challenge leaders R Es Aiden and Rodney Gillis at the top of the stretch and fell, which caused a pileup of horses and drivers. Among those involved were Fleetwood Cam, driven by John Beaton, and Shiny Mach, with Roddy Hurley aboard.
Campbell, Hurley and Beaton were taken to hospital. Campbell sustained three hairline cracks to his hip and was to undergo more x-rays to his back. He is expected to be out of action for at least six weeks. Hurley suffered a bad concussion along with bumps and bruises, but was released from hospital and is resting at home.
As an article by CBC News Nova Scotia explains, Beaton also suffered some serious injuries.
According to Beatons wife, Kim, the horseman was airlifted to a hospital in Halifax where his injuries were determined.
"They have him stabilized and everything, Kim said. He's in the outpatients there. He has broken ribs that I know of and his back, it may be vertebrae in his back. They're working on him now. I'm very upset. I want everything to work out all the best for him."
It is not believed at this time that any of the horses involved in the accident suffered serious injuries. Simon Poirier, an owner of one of the horses involved, stated in social media that local horsepeople should be commended for their quick actions.
As an owner of one of the horses involved in the accident yesterday, Id like to [thank] all the horsemen from Northside Downs that helped with my horse whom seemed to get the [worst] of it, Poirier wrote. But with the great help she received she is going fine today walking sound and seems very alert just some cuts and scrapes to deal with but looks like she will be fine.
Please join Standardbred Canada in wishing all of the horsemen and horses that were involved in the accident speedy and complete recoveries from their injuries.
(With files from CBC News Nova Scotia)
National Bible Week Commemorating 75th Anniversary with Special Reading of the Bible on Floor of the US House of Representatives
National Bible Association with Rep. Doug Lamborn (CO) host bi-partisan event to include readings from the Bible on Tuesday November 15th, 2016.
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2016 / Standard Newswire / -- In commemoration of the 75th Anniversary of National Bible Week, a bi-partisan event will be held on the floor of the US House of Representatives and will include readings from the Bible. Led by U.S. Congressmen, Doug Lamborn of Colorado Spring, CO., the event will be held in the afternoon hours of Tuesday November 15th, 2016 and will include the reading of passages from three different Bibles:
A Catholic Bible
A Jewish Bible
A Protestant Bible
WHO: Members of the House of Representatives led by U.S. Congressmen, Doug Lamborn of Colorado Spring, CO., in partnership with National Bible Association.
WHAT: Bi-Partisan Commemoration Event of 75th Anniversary of National Bible Week
WHEN: 3pm ET exact time may vary depending on potential House schedule overruns.
WHERE: The Floor of The House of Representatives
DAY OF POINT OF CONTACT: Elise Inman - (e) : Elise Inman - (e) einman@nationalbible.org (p) 615 775- 6902
The National Bible Association is a non-profit, educational association operating in the public square that provides a platform for our Nation's Leaders to encourage people to read the Bible. The National Bible Association was created in 1940 by a group of business and professional leaders in New York City. Their purpose was to find hope for America while war raged in Europe.
Today, the strength of National Bible continues as an association of dedicated members who encourage Bible reading locally, through events and special projects, and nationally, through media campaigns. This is done primarily through our three main program areas: International Bible Week (previously National Bible Week), Media & Literature, and Awards and Recognition. Our goal is to encourage everyone to read the Bible and raise awareness of the Bible's importance and relevance to our nation as a whole, as well as in the lives of individuals.
The essential component of totalitarian propaganda is artifice (het toepassen van kunstgrepen. svh) . The ruling elites, like celebritie...
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This slow cooker butternut squash lentil curry is creamy and flavored with warm spices, butternut squash, coconut milk and lime juice! Works great as a comforting vegan dinner, or for meal prep.
This slow cooker butternut squash lentil curry is a reader favorite around here! Not only is it super easy to get on to cook (no sauteeing!), but it tastes amazing and is hard to screw up.
Inspired by my favorite Red Lentil Dal recipe, this version has butternut squash, which adds a little bit of sweetness, coconut milk, which makes it richer and adds a little coconutty flavor, and lime, which brings out all the flavors.
This curry also happens to be one of my favorite meal prep lunch recipes: makes a big batch and is easy to portion out with rice and freeze for later. It's filling, but healthy, and I love that it's vegan, as we are making an effort to consume less meat these days.
Reasons you'll butternut squash lentil curry it's a 'dump and go' slow cooker meal
it freeze/thaws great (before or after cooking!)
it is vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free
Recipe video
Watch the video below to see exactly how I prepped this curry. Its so easy! You can find more of my recipe videos on my YouTube channel.
Don't forget to pin this post to save it for later!
What's in this curry?
Red lentils- use dried red lentils. This recipe has not been tested with green or brown lentils and probably won't work with pre-cooked canned lentils (unless you want soup)
use dried red lentils. This recipe has not been tested with green or brown lentils and probably won't work with pre-cooked canned lentils (unless you want soup) Butternut squash - 4 cups, which is roughly half a butternut squash. You could use frozen pre-cut butternut squash cubes as a shortcut!
- 4 cups, which is roughly half a butternut squash. You could use frozen pre-cut butternut squash cubes as a shortcut! Aromatics - onion, garlic and ginger.
- onion, garlic and ginger. Canned goods - diced tomatoes + juices and coconut milk. Use a good quality full fat coconut milk for the best results! Thai Kitchen Coconut Milk has never let me down.
- diced tomatoes + juices and coconut milk. Use a good quality full fat coconut milk for the best results! Thai Kitchen Coconut Milk has never let me down. Spices - curry powder, cumin, ground coriander, garam masala and salt
- curry powder, cumin, ground coriander, garam masala and salt Stock - use vegetable stock for a vegan recipe or homemade bone broth
- use vegetable stock for a vegan recipe or homemade bone broth Lime juice- to stir in before serving to bring a bit of acidity and make all the other flavors pop!
Can I cook this in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can! While I have not tried this myself, reader Patricia recommends a 4 minute cook time with a 10 minute natural pressure release.
Can I swap the butternut squash for something else?
I think sweet potatoes would work well as a replacement.
Can I skip the coconut milk in this recipe?
I have not tested this without the coconut milk. I *think* you could leave it out, and add in some cream or yogurt at the end of the cook time, but I am unsure of how this may alter the flavor. If you try it without the coconut milk, please leave us a comment below to tell us how it tasted!
Tips for the best curry! half batch - this recipe makes 8 servings. Leftovers do freeze, but if you want to cut it in half, you can cook it in a small 2.5 quart slow cooker.
- this recipe makes 8 servings. Leftovers do freeze, but if you want to cut it in half, you can cook it in a small 2.5 quart slow cooker. mash it - after cooking, I take a potato masher and mash until it's creamy and smooth. This is totally optional.
- after cooking, I take a potato masher and mash until it's creamy and smooth. This is totally optional. shortcut - use pre cut frozen butternut squash to save time on prep
- use pre cut frozen butternut squash to save time on prep meal prep - this can be meal prepped in one of two ways: freezer crockpot- assemble all ingredients (except for the stock and lime juice) in a sturdy gallon-sized freezer bag. Squeeze out air and freeze for up to 3 months. cook ahead- cook as directed, cool, and portion out with rice. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- this can be meal prepped in one of two ways: Find my favorite slow cookers and other kitchen equipment in my shop!
More vegan slow cooker recipes
This recipe was originally published in 2016. It has been re-written and published in 2019 with a brand new video! Same great recipe.
Play at the new site will be free and first come, first served through the year's end.
BY OLIVIA ROSE
STAFF MEMBERS of the National Health Insurance Plan (NHIP) are calling for the removal of Chief Executive Officer, Zaneta Burton.
In a correspondence received by the Weekly News staff members with the exception of one person have signed a petition to remove the current CEO from office.
Prior to this move, a number of Sick-outs and sit-ins were planned and executed by irate staff of the NHIP to demonstrate their frustration with management.
Workers last month staged a no-show, leaving many visitors upset and management scrambling to rectify the situation.
The petition which was addressed to the NHIP chairman, who since the inception of the saga, has allegedly not intervened, stated: "Under the leadership of Mrs. Burton, we the people of the
Turks and Caicos Islands have been oppressed, victimized and demoralized.
"Mrs. Burton's leadership skills leave much to be desired and at this time we feel that we have had enough.
"After much consideration, we as a united group have decided to go forth and make all concerned aware of what has transpired at this organization and demand that Mrs. Burton be removed from office.
"We believe that we can no longer work with Mrs. Burton and it is in the best interest of all concerned that she be replaced.
The staffers also bemoaned the lack of action by the Minister of Finance Washington Misick and Premier Rufus Ewing, who has direct jurisdiction for the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB).
An insider told the Weekly News that Burton lacks the caring temperament for her staff and the people of the Turks and Caicos, as she would always state that she 'is a Bahamian and has somewhere to go'.
Coupled with the removal of the CEO the staff is calling for a salary increase.
A document entitled, "Staff Proposals and Grievances and a Way Forward has since been submitted to the board.
The document outlines several proposals with the objective to "affect change in the organization, promoting a healthier/positive image, providing greater customer service, increasing personal and professional development and implementing a cohesive, highly structured management team to carry out the proposed strategies.
It further stated that the general consensus of the members is the replacement of Mrs. Burton as CEO since she demonstrated lack of leadership skills, inability to promote a team and productive environment and personal practices are not conducive to a healthy relationship between sta? and Burton.
Staff expressed a grave dissatisfaction with the level of professional development and training allowed.
It was felt that only lip service was ascribed to the training mandate and even though monies were allocated, the members were not given the opportunity to undergo training that would increase their productivity and level of competency.
BY OLIVIA ROSE
THE GOVERNMENT is in the process of negotiating with private land owners to create alternative disaster routes in the event of Tsunami.
At a press conference recently held to commemorate the first World Tsunami Day, it was revealed that the planning department has started to consult with land owners in the Blue Hill area to create more routes.
November 5 was designated World Tsunami Awareness by the United Nations General Assembly.
According to Assistant Director of Planning Toriano Williams private land owners must consider the public good.
He revealed that the negotiations are centered on addressing the issue of congestion in the event of major disaster.
He said: "Thats one of the issues on our table; the Government is currently working with different private land owners and trying to provide the different routes.
He noted that: "There was one that was coming out of Chalk Sound; however, that would only deal with taking parts of some Blue Hills to Chalk Sound area.
"But now that we are currently looking at from Blue Hills into the town, I think were on a table and were working on that currently, so at this stage it will come on stream next year fully.
He noted that: "Blue Hills front road, we can probably connect from the front road leading directly into the town or more up to the highway, or we look at the back road, theres a route coming from out of Blue Hills that can take you towards the airport.
"So we`re looking at different options and doing case studies and analysis.
The date for the annual celebration was chosen in honor of the Japanese story of "Inamura-no-hi, meaning the "burning of the rice sheaves.
During an 1854 earthquake a farmer saw the tide receding, a sign of a looming tsunami. He set fire to his entire harvest to warn villagers, who fled to high ground. Afterwards, he built an embankment and planted trees as a buffer against future waves.
The UN General Assembly has called on all countries, international bodies and civil society to observe the day, in order to raise tsunami awareness and share innovative approaches to risk reduction.
The debut World Tsunami Awareness Day focuses on education and evacuation drills.
For the pass five (5) years here in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) has embarked on raising Tsunami Awareness by working with the public and private schools here in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Some of the key activities undertaken in the past to promote awareness include, observance of annual Earthquake and Tsunami Awareness Week in January and Tsunami evacuation drills were held with a number of the schools.
DEMA has also worked assiduously to draft a National Tsunami Response Plan and Standard Operating Procedures.
Additionally, recently following the Haiti Earthquake January 2010, the Turks and Caicos Islands were placed under a tsunami watch.
In light of this DEMA says the country can longer afford to focus on just hurricanes and flooding but need to look at other hazards that give very little to no warning but their impact is far more dangerous and deadly.
By Daisy Handfield
DURING a recent press conference, Government officials from the Ministry of Education updated the media on its Early Childhood Pilot Program, a curriculum advertised as a syllabus to reform and revise the way Turks and Caicos schools teach and how students learn.
The new curriculum was launched on September 14, with a goal to advance and improve the learning experience of every child in the TCI.
The press conference was held on Tuesday, in the conference room at the Hilly Ewing Building in Providenciales.
The prospectus, which is touted under the slogan no child left behind, aims to boost the holistic potential of students through improved teaching strategies.
Rhonda Blackman-Smith, curriculum development officer with the Ministry of Education, said during the press conference that she has received positive feedback from the participating teachers, at least from five out of six schools that the curriculum has been implemented in.
"Our teachers felt that it was what was needed and they welcomed the document. They felt that the curriculum was relevant, it was broad and it was balanced and it created the length of content and depth that they wanted. Our teachers felt that working with the document was easier for them because it lends itself to content, objectives and right down to the assessment, Blackman-Smith said.
Blackman-Smith further explained that the curriculum is more child-centred and more active learning.
Laranda Parker, teacher at the Ianthe Pratt Primary School, who was present during the press conference said that the experience with the new curriculum has been great so far.
She said: "I was one of those persons that was able to help out with the writing of the math curriculum and giving ideas for others. What I like about it is that with this curriculum, it is not just a document handed to you, without further guidance.
Akierra Missick, Minister responsible for Education, said that the program was important because it was a way to engage all of their educators and stakeholders.
The Minister added that the feedback is of paramount importance, as the Ministry solidifies the program, the curriculum, the document for the younger citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
"This is just a first step, when we have a solid foundation at the early childhood level, we will see our children blossom, Ms Missick said.
The curriculum has been implemented in all three Government primary schools in Providenciales, Eliza Simons and Ona Glinton in Grand Turk and private school, Best Institute.
The focus subjects are mathematics, science, social studies and language arts.
You may know about the speediest running animal of the planet Cheetah which can run 75 mph and about the sailfish, which motors through the water at 68 mph. But do you know who the fastest flyer is in the animal realm? Well, it is the Brazilian free-tailed bats which speed is clocked at 160km/hour. A new study held by a group of US researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology in Germany have found a new front-runner among the acrobats of the air which can fly 160 kilometres per hour in the night sky.
The Brazilian free-followed bat shoots during the evening skies at more than 160 miles for an hour. The streamlined body shape and longer than regular wings contrasted with other bat species empowers this type of Brazilian-bats to achieve such high speed of flying in the night.
Brazilian bats are small yet ravenous creatures, known to eat up moths, bugs, and various creepy crawlies by the hundreds every night. They fly in groups of a few million, their settlements shaping the biggest accumulation of warm-bodied creatures around. Concerning their flying paces, it was thought to be not more than the speed of 59 mph, but the new research conducted by biologists at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville has proved it to be wrong and said that this type of Brazilian Bats fly quicker than its sibling creatures, as per new research drove.
Birds are still considered as a model for aeronautics designs today and stay unequalled with regards to flight qualities. While most flying creatures can take off at relatively low speeds, this newly spotted Brazilian Bat has proven to be something more exciting and more high-flying.
3: 15 pm Reacting to the RBI's policy, BJP spokesperson Nirmala Sitharaman lashed out at the government, arguing that RBI cannot sort out the government's economic problems and the common man is at the receiving end as interest rates remain at elevated levels.
RBI need not consult govt for mid-quarter review, says Pranab
12: oo pm Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said the central bank has also taken into consideration the consumer price inflation in May which could be the reason for it to hold its policy rates.
The Reserve Bank of India need not consult the government for a mid-quarter policy review, the finance minister was quoted as saying on CNBC-TV18. The finance minister had on Saturday said Indian economy is in difficult situation and expressed hope that the RBI will keep this in mind while devising its policy review.
Meanwhile commenting on the policy, Dinesh Thakkar, CMD, Angel Broking said " the markets were expecting at least a 25bps cut, so a status quo policy comes as a bit of a disappoint. But the fact is that in spite of significant decline in growth, inflation has remained very sticky in India, creating challenges in monetary policy-making. I believe the markets and policy-makers alike will continue to look for cues on the domestic front from the inflation readings and crude prices, and if core inflation continues to slow-down on expected lines due to weak demand, then in the coming quarters we will likely see rate cuts, though more slow-paced than earlier expected," he said.
Rates unchanged; inflation pressure too strong to ease
11: 00 am The Reserve Bank of India has left the policy unchanged and delivered nothing for the financial markets by leaving the CRR and the repo rate unchanged.The central bank has left the policy repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) unchanged at 8.0 percent. RBI, however, will continue to use open market operation to contain liquidity pressures.
However, the markets which were at least expecting a 25 basis point cut, tanked immediately, with the BSE down 140 points at around 16825 levels and the Nifty near the day's low at 5080 levels. The benchmark 10-year Government bonds too declined from day's high. The rupee also lost ground versus the US dollar.
The repo rate is the rate i set by the central bank and is modified to signal its stance on how money should be priced in the system. Now that the repo rate is left unchanged, it means the RBI is tightening its monetary stance. Fewer cars, houses and goods are bought when interest rates are high and fewer investment projects are funded. This means borrowing becomes more expensive, resulting in a slowdown in economic activity and growth.
It looks like the RBI is ready to live with slower growth but not high inflation. While growth in 2011-12 has moderated significantly, headline inflation remains above levels consistent with sustainable growth, said the central bank. The central bank said that factors other than interest rates were contributing to the growth slowdown.
It also said that management of liquidity remains a priority, adding that the current account deficit is wide despite growth slowdown. " This is symptomatic of demand-supply imbalances and a pointer to the urgent need to resolve the supply bottlenecks," it said.
Crude is an argument for cutting interest rates but it has negated by the rupee depreciation.Moreover, the RBI says easing core inflation has shown demand conditions. RBI's furute action depends on external factors, domestic developments and inflationary risks, said the reserve bank.
"The Reserve Bank had frontloaded the policy rate reduction in April with a cut of 50 basis points. This decision was based on the premise that the process of fiscal consolidation critical for inflation management would get under way, along with other supply-side initiatives. Our assessment of the current growth-inflation dynamic is that there are several factors responsible for the slowdown in activity, particularly in investment, with the role of interest rates being relatively small. Consequently, further reduction in the policy interest rate at this juncture, rather than supporting growth, could exacerbate inflationary pressures," RBI said in its statement.
C. Rangarajan said that the RBI may take a decision on cutting interest rates at the end of the quarter. He added that the central bank has taken a very cautionary approach as the may inf lation data did not give enough room to cut rates, adding that further action depends on inflationary pressures.
Sujan Hazra, chief economist at Anand Rathi Securities said "The Reserve Bank of India's action is clearly disappointing. Inflation remains a concern, but the slowing growth needed at least a 50-basis-point rate cut. The RBI will have to ease sooner or later, otherwise there will be further challenges to growth.It can cut the cash reserve ratio even before the next policy. The decision will depend on the liquidity tightness."
RBI is of the opinion that depreciating rupee should help in expanding exports. "Rupee fall to eventually act as demand stimulus," the bank said. Separately, the central bank enhanced the eligible limit of the Export Credit Refinance (ECR) facility for scheduled banks (excluding RRBs) from 15 percent of the outstanding export credit eligible for refinance to 50 per cent. The move will be effective in the fortnight beginning June 30. This would provide an additional amount of Rs 30000 crore as liquidity support to banks.
Now all eyes would be on next policy meet which is due in July, where RBI could possibly act. .
10:45 am Reserve Bank of India's monetary policy review, which is expected to provide an impetus to the Indian economy is due in about fifteen minutes and most analysts are expecting a repo rate cut (The rate at which theRBIlends money to commercial bank) by 25 basis points, leaving the cash reserve ratio ( amount of funds that the banks have to keep with the RBI) unchanged. A reduction in the repo rate helps banks get money at a cheaper rate and vice versa. RBI uses the CRR to drain out excessive money from the system.
There is widespread expectation among many market participants that the RBI will once again cut policy rates. The banking regulator has surprised the market with a higher-than-expected rate cut of 50 bps in the previous policy meet. A CNBC-TV18 poll conducted suggests that most participants are betting on a 25 bps cut in rates.
Ramesh Damani, member BSE says he will be surprised to see more than 25 bps rate cut today. Damani, in a interview with CNBC-TV18 said Indian equity market will strengthen from a favourable RBI action. In addition, valuations are attractive at these levels though investors are sceptical of taking the plunge.
Leif Eskesen of HSBC Global Research told CNBC-TV18 that there isn't a strong case for a cut in cash reserve ratio from the Reserve Bank today. "I don't actually think there is necessarily a case for cutting rates either, but nevertheless we think they would still do it," he added.
Eskesen believes the Reserve Bank will be influenced by global events, mainly the unresolved issues in the eurozone, and will signal easing on account of weak economic data.
India's March quarter economic growth of 5.3 percent was far worse than expected and the weakest annual pace in nine years. The data sparked calls from industry for immediate action to lift an economy that Standard & Poor's says could be the first BRIC nation to lose its investment-level credit rating.
April industrial output figures last week suggested little pickup in economic growth heading into the current quarter.
Core inflation, which excludes food and fuel, is running below 5 percent, which also helps to justify a rate cut. Investors and companies have long called for India to implement pro-growth policies that would spur investment and help remove bottlenecks in the economy blamed both for restricting growth and keeping inflation high.
US rating agency S&P's warning put India on a negative watch although with investment grade. Inflation has also not cooled off much. The May inflation data at 7.5-7.55% is a little higher than April and more importantly it is accompanied by consumer price inflation, which is 10.5% for April itself.
Bankers especially State Bank of India (SBI) said that they will pass on the cuts in the form of lower lending rates only if the CRR is cut. So much depends on how serious the RBI is about monetary transmission.
tech2 News Staff
Google Pixel, the current flagship launched last month by Google was hacked by a Chinese hacker team under 60 seconds. The team hacked Apple Safari and Adobe Flash along with Google Pixel in the PwnFest in Seoul last week. The white-hat hacker team from Qihoo 360 used an undisclosed security flaw to perform a remote code execution attack and took away $ 1,20,000 cash prize from the company.
The hacking attacks included the team launching Google Play Store before opening Chrome and opening a web page that said "Pwned By 360 Alpha Team", as reported by The Register. According to Google the bug used in the hacking attack was fixed within 24 hours of the demonstration at the event, and the code changes have made their way to the stable build branch of Google Chrome. This is the second time that the Google Pixel has been compromised in two weeks. Qihoo 360 also breached Adobe Flash which took them four seconds.
The first hack was demonstrated by Keen Team which utilises a zero-day exploit during Mobile Pwn2Own event in Japan. Google has still not managed to fix the zero-day exploit. The Keen Team demonstrated the attack again during the event showing that they can hack all sections of Google Pixel including phone calls, messages, contacts and photos stored on the device.
Nash David
8 November was supposed to be a normal day. And it was. But as millions of Indians wrapped a normal workday and sat around the dinner table, TV news channels flashed an alert. PM Modi was to address the nation. Like every other Indian, I glued myself to the television set as well.
What followed was a government announcement that in a matter of hours Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes would cease to be legal tenders.
Out of curiosity, I wanted to know what digital Indians felt around the on-going chatter. Over the weekend, I ran several search queries across analytical tools to gauge what the kind of sentiment was buzzing online. Here are my findings.
Chatter online was largely backlash for the cash inconvenience
With widespread inconvenience, users felt execution could have been much better. Although emergency services were to continue to accept these large denominations, small businesses struggled with a surge in demand for returning the balance change. In short, the buzzing cash market was getting sluggish. And individuals depending on cash were having a tough time.
If you thought this was supposed to result in backlash for the Prime Minister, well, that didn't happen.
For those with hard earned cash, venting out on social media is natural. On the other hand, those with wads of unaccounted cash lying at home would've probably disconnected from social media. Theyd rather be sweating it out under stress or be running around trying to dump it in garbage bins, or let it flow in the Ganges.
The key hashtags I considered were #BlackMoney, #Demonetisation, #NarendraModi, #RBI among several others. I used a mix of social media tools including Sentiment140 among a few more to make sense of the rise in chatter on social media.
What I found was, on a larger scale, online sentiment was rather positive when it came to the efforts taken by the Prime Minister to curb black money. Most agreed this was necessary. And would help in weeding out the concern of unaccounted black money. Interestingly, #BlackMoney, #CurrencyBan and #NarendraModi throw contrasting sentiments.
On Saturday night (after day 4 of the currency ban), conversations were 57 percent negative for #BlackMoney. That was despite people welcoming the move. Soon it turned into complaints over how banks were executing the move. That seems surprising to begin with because curbing black money (as a derivative from corruption) is supposed to have been one of the most sought after concerns from the electorate during the elections.
People feel differently towards the Prime Minister and the RBI
This was one trend I was surprised over. One would assume that opinion towards the Prime Minister and the RBI would be aligned. Both were supposed to work in tandem to ensure smooth functioning and transitioning to the new cash market. However, from the analysis, it appears that the larger online base is swinging in favour of the Prime Minister, while the RBI could have done much better in ensuring that the transition was smooth.
Essentially, what this meant was that users on Twitter supported the government on the issue of demonetisation, but had grave complaints with the banking system in terms of the execution of the plan.
Many online users complained about how banks werent doing enough. A few tweets also were vocal about how banks were closing at 4 PM when they were supposed to stay open will 8 PM. A few tweets expressed their expectations from the RBI in taking action against banks that werent helping customers. A few also mentioned that banks were displaying notice boards that said only the specific bank customers could get currency notes. Such and similar operational hurdles got the sentiment to sway towards negative.
https://twitter.com/yogeshaugust/status/797736354352427008
Execution makes a huge difference
In such a nationwide move, execution makes all the difference. Disbursement of cash, access to ATMs with cash, as well as the arduous task of queuing up for withdrawal were key areas where the conversations were turning negative. In fact, shortage of cash and the issue of calibration of ATMs to read the new Rs 2000 notes were also contributors in the negative sentiment. Concerns about how notes would be scarce given the short notice didn't help either.
Since banks and ATMs were shut on the first day of the ban, users were sinking in the implications of the move. However, the next day, when banks and ATMs opened is when the backlash began. This continued through the weekend as well, when long queues outside banks and ATMs where a common sight. All through, there were some tweets that questioned the need for the Prime Minister to be travelling when there was a situation in the country. But largely, online sentiment still supported the demonetisation move.
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To help customers scale technology availability with IT demand, Dell EMC on Monday announced a range of products, solutions and consumption models that address cloud, big data analytics, converged infrastructure, storage, data protection and security. "Today's organisations must embark on a digital transformation. To truly realise their digital future, we believe the vast majority of organisations will transform their IT through a hybrid cloud strategy," David Goulden, president, Infrastructure Solutions Group, Dell EMC, said in a statement.
Dell EMC announced the expansion of its leading converged infrastructure portfolio through integration with PowerEdge servers into VxRail Appliances and VxRack System 1000 hyper-converged infrastructure (HCI). The company also announced the new Analytic Insights Module delivering all of the software, hardware and services necessary to stand up an environment for both big data analytics and cloud native application development in days rather than weeks.
Dell unveiled its Endpoint Data Security and Management portfolio encompassing technologies from Dell, Mozy by Dell, RSA and VMware AirWatch, offering data protection, backup and recovery, identity assurance, threat prevention and advanced response, and endpoint device and application management capabilities. The company rolled out updates to the Dell EMC Elastic Cloud Storage (ECS) platform, with new support for Dell EMC PowerEdge Servers.
IANS
tech2 News Staff
Eugene Kaspersky, CEO of Kaspersky Lab, a leading cyber security services vendor, has presented evidence that Microsoft is pushing out third party anti-virus software companies from its ecosystem.
The problem is with the latest version of Windows 10. The bundled Windows Defender app aggressively pushes itself to users over third party anti-virus software. On upgrading to the latest version of Windows 10, Microsoft disables "incompatible" security applications. Windows Defender takes over even if the software passes the initial compatibility check. If users have installed a third party security service, and are using it, Windows pushes out an alert claiming weaker security because Windows Defender is disabled.
Enabling Defender prevents the existing anti-virus software from working, but this is not immediately apparent from the graphics used in the alert window. Additionally, Microsoft has restricted third party software vendors from pushing alerts to continue subscriptions, to within three days after expiry of the license. If a user forgets to renew a license, there is a buried notification in the Security Center, and Windows turns on Defender.
Microsoft has limited the operating system to support just one anti-virus software. This may seem like a bad idea because the software might be incompatible, fight over viruses and use up too many resources. However, it prevents users from running trial versions of anti-virus software while being subscribed to a service. If such a situation occurs, Windows turns off both anti-virus software and turns on Defender.
The rule for only one anti virus software on the operating system does not apply to Defender itself. Defender scans the system periodically, and on such scans, prompts the user to switch to Defender.
Kaspersky claims that having a single anti-virus solution for all Windows users is in itself a security threat. Malicious attackers will have to get through the defenses of just one software instead of compromising a wide range of anti-virus software. Kaspersky also alleges that Windows Defender provides security that is markedly below the industry standard, in terms of false positives and missed samples.
Chris Hallum, Senior Product Manager of Windows Client Security at Microsoft, outlined improvements to Windows Defender for the Windows 10 Anniversary Update in a video posted on YouTube. Over the course of the video (at 58:20), Hallum says "I can't promise you we will be number one, but I can promise you that we will be within a tenth of a point, so meaning basically like we have very comparable protection. And so this is something that I think you should put on a roadmap, I want you to evaluate it, and I want you to think about kicking out third party antivirus."
The blog post by Eugene Kaspersky calls for co-operation from the entire third party software industry, as well as anti-virus vendors, to take on Microsoft for its violation of anti-competition legislation. Kaspersky has taken up the matter with official bodies around the world, including the EU and Russia.
Responses to the post ranged from cheering Kaspersky in taking such a measure, to users who genuinely wanted an integrated security solution from Microsoft.
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The consortium that approves emojis has signed off new ones, including a woman wearing a hijab, woman breastfeeding a baby and a person doing yoga.
The new emojis are likely to arrive on smartphones next year after Unicode, the international consortium that sets their global standards, proposed the 51 icons.
It will take the total number of the cartoon images, which are increasingly being used to replace words in text messages, to 1,724, The Telegraph reported.
Rayouf Alhumedhi, a 15-year-old from Germany, had campaigned for the inclusion of the character wearing a hijab emoji, proposing it to Unicode after realising there was no emoji to represent her.
Among the list of introductions are person with headscarf, breastfeeding, bearded person, older adult, reflecting the current lack of grandparent icons.
Other emojis that will be released in 2017 by Unicode are a head exploding, a face with open mouth vomiting and a man and woman practising yoga, The Guardian reported.
The new list, Unicode 10, adds to efforts to make emojis more diverse. Smartphone makers have included a variety of skin tones, hair colours and cultural and religious references in recent years following claims that they reinforce stereotypes.
Google recently called for more emojis that reflect women in the workplace, while Apple added male and female versions of some emojis after complaints that many of the female- focused cartoons featured activities such as cutting hair.
Alhumedhi, whose own proposal was accepted by Unicode, tweeted that she was "so excited" by the news.
The other new emojis proposed include a zombie, a vampire, a person holding their finger to their mouth, and a T-Rex.
Unicode, which represents the major technology companies, proposed a shortlist of the new emojis. They are typically approved in the following summer and are likely to be added to smartphones in roughly a years time.
In the coming weeks, Apple is set to add the emojis from the previous set, Unicode 9. They include emojis for facepalm, selfie, a clown and a pregnant woman.
PTI
tech2 News Staff
A pregnant woman in western Sydney went to sleep with an iPhone 7 charging on her arm, and woke up to second degree burns on her hand. On visiting the doctor, she was advised a visit to the hospital. Apple has sent the phone for testing by a senior technician in California. Apple has confirmed to News.com.au that it is investigating the matter with Pelaez.
Apple also offered Ms Tan Pelaez a replacement iPhone, but she did not want it as she had lost faith in the company. Pelaez has been a long time Apple user and has not previously faced any problems with products by the company.
On returning the phone, Apple executives had said that the source of the burn injuries could not have been the phone as the phone was designed to cut off power on overcharging. Pelaez has visited the emergency room in the hospital twice because of the burns, and is exploring the option of plastic surgery to fix the scarring.
This is the second such incident from Sydney, Australia in recent memory. A biker had to punch the phone off his leg after the device burst into flames following a fall. An Apple iPhone 7 had reportedly exploded in China three days ago, after a 50 centimetre fall. For those fearing a repeat of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 Fiasco, there were reports of over 30 Note 7 devices exploding over a course of a week.
Aditya Madanapalle
Volkswagen's Audi AG said on Monday that it was in talks with China's SAIC Motor Corp Ltd for a long-term collaboration, which dealers for its existing joint venture say would cause them "potentially fatal damage." Reuters reported on Saturday, citing a source familiar with the matter, that the two sides had signed an agreement that could pave the way for Volkswagen's joint venture with SAIC, China's largest automaker, to make Audi brand cars.
Audi cars are now made in China through a joint venture with China FAW Group Corp, providing a lifeline to the state-owned company whose own brands have struggled with falling sales. An early entrant to China, the world's largest car market, Audi is the best-selling premium car brand although it is rapidly losing ground to newer car models from Daimler's Mercedes-Benz and non-German automakers such as Toyota's Lexus and General Motor's Cadillac.
Audi has been slow to introduce new products, hurting sales growth, so Audi dealers are generally losing money, existing Audi dealers said in a letter to the automaker in response to the talks. "The interests of Audi dealers will be further damaged if your company sets up a new sales company in China," they said. The dealers, in the letter seen by Reuters, requested Audi to collect their opinions and guarantee their rights before making a final decision.
Volkswagen gets a larger proportion of its proceeds from the 50-50 tie-up with SAIC than from its 40 percent stake in the venture with FAW. Audi reaffirmed its commitment to FAW in the statement announcing the talks with SAIC, saying it had outlined growth plans with FAW for the next 10 years that include making green energy sport utility vehicles and sedans in every major segment. "With this 10-year plan, everything is set for future growth together with FAW, including the dealership investors," an Audi spokesman said.
Audi will also form a new joint venture company with FAW that will be based in Beijing to focus on mobility and digital services, according to the statement.
Reuters
Back in 2000, when she was running to represent New York in the Senate, Hillary Clinton benefited from the almost unanimous vote of one small Jewish hassidic village in Rockland County called New Square.
This week, running for president, Clinton is once again expected to be the favorite of New Square a town comprised mostly of Skver Hassidim whose loyalty runs counter to the prevailing trend of the American Jewish community. While overall support among American Jews traditionally leans Democratic in presidential elections, polls have shown that when it comes to Orthodox voters, the tendency is reversed.
According to the famous 2013 Pew Research Center study on American Jewry, 57% of Orthodox Jewish voters are Republican or lean Republican, and only 36% are Democrats or lean Democratic.
More recently, an American Jewish Committee survey published in September showed 50% of Orthodox respondents prefer Donald Trump, and only 21% side with Clinton.
CEO of the public affairs consulting firm The Friedlander Group, Ezra Friedlander, an Orthodox Jew himself who has accompanied many presidential candidates in visits to the community this year, is familiar with the community in New Square.
A day before the election, Friedlander told The Jerusalem Post that he believes the local Skver hassidic community, like the Satmar Hassidim who have already endorsed her, will cast its vote for Clinton because of their long-time ties.
The hassidic community has a relationship with Hillary Clinton, he said.
[...] In recent days, leaders of the Satmar Hasidim in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, and the Skver Hasidim in Rockland County, New York, have endorsed Clinton.
The Satmar and the Skver are among the most socially conservative and religiously observant Jewish groups in the United States. So why are they backing Hillary Clinton?
Its relationships, said David Pollock, associate executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, and perhaps the Jewish establishments leading expert on the byzantine politics of New York Citys ultra-Orthodox communities.
Those relationships run deep. The Satmar community in Williamsburg has been exceptionally successful over decades building ties to elected officials at all levels of government.
Their top criteria for which candidate to back? Theyre going to vote for the winner, Pollock said.
Thats because the Williamsburg Jewish community, in particular, needs friends in government. The neighborhood is poor, and relies on government programs for housing and healthcare. So they tend to back Democrats, both because Democrats usually win in New York, and because Democrats support the social programs that they need. Since Jewish institutions play an outsized role in the lives of Hasidic Jews, endorsements from communal leaders carry an unusual amount of weight. For politicians, these bloc votes are attractive. Williamsburg is one of the few places in American where politicians can attract votes wholesale, not retail, Pollock said.
Sometimes these relationships are nakedly transactional. The Skver, for example, voted almost unanimously for Hillary Clinton during first race for Senate in New York in 2000. Weeks later, Bill Clinton shortened the sentences four Skver men convicted of defrauding the federal government. A federal investigation of the Skver commutations ended without any charges filed in 2002.
Before the presidential election took place this year, there was some pretty eyebrow-raising news about what Orthodox Jewish communities Hillary Clinton could definitely rely upon , and it's ultra-Orthodox clans like the Skver, and Satmar:Indeed they do. And it's because she saw to it they'd get all the socialist welfare support they wanted, rather than work for self-support. Something which The Forward had more about:Except that, as seen this past week, they didn't. But, here's the answer why they'd support Clinton coming up:See that? To date, they've relied 99 percent upon the Democrats for welfare-type programs to subsist upon, and wouldn't get jobs that could help them pay their bills by themselves. I hope Trump doesn't cozy up to these phonies and their MO. The Satmar and Skver's socialist lifestyle has only made things worse for several areas where they live, since the tax dollars of the neighborhoods they're living around have only ended up going to waste. There's no need to win favor from the two clans, because their whole structure runs counter to what the USA was built upon.And there you have examples of the "Orthodox" sects Democrats like the Clintons could rely upon, till now.
Labels: haredi corruption, Moonbattery, New York, political corruption, United States, US Congress
Whom he chooses and how soon he will act after the inauguration will send a clear message to Americas foes and friends alike where this nation is heading and its resolve to assert its global leadership role.
Dr. Alon Ben-Meir is a professor of international relations at the Center for Global Affairs at NYU. He teaches courses on international negotiation and Middle Eastern studies.
If nothing else, the 2016 elections have once again reaffirmed Americas solid democratic system. Without any major incidents, tens of millions of Americans went to polling stations across the land, voted for the candidate of their choice, and readied themselves, as always, for the peaceful transfer of power. I believe that even those who were deeply disappointed with the results of the election will sooner than later rise above the fray, put the nations interests first, and work to build a more wholesome union.Notwithstanding the post-election trauma that many Americans are experiencing and the time the Trump administration will need to sort out a host of domestic and foreign policy issues, the U.S. faces numerous foreign crises and it does not have the luxury of time to pause in dealing with them. Americas leadership role and responsibility remain pivotal to mitigate, if not end, many of these violent conflicts sweeping the Middle East in particular. Although President-elect Trump is inexperienced and lacks the nuanced knowledge of the complex crises America is confronted with, he must now navigate his own way and develop new strategies, particularly in the areas where Obama fell short, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Sunni-Shiite war, and the civil war in Syria.The Israeli-Palestinian conflict: There is no doubt that President Obama has made supreme efforts to solve the seven-decades old Israeli-Palestinian conflict. However admirable his efforts were, the president and his chief mediator Secretary of State John Kerry failed to take into account the psychological dimension of the conflict, which has been and remains the core impediment to resolving the conflict, especially from religious, historic, and ideological perspectives.Throughout the two sets of intensive negotiations in 2009-2010 and 2013-2014, and in spite of the progress made on various conflicting issues such as the Palestinian refugees, the future of Jerusalem, and borders, the failure to mitigate the psychological aspect connected to these issues made it impossible for either side to deliver what they have agreed upon.At this juncture, the gulf between the two sides has become even deeper and wider, and no amount of mediation, compensation, or coercion can persuade either side to make the significant concessions needed to make peace possible.The Trump administration must first focus on a process of reconciliation (people-to-people activity) that would mitigate the profound mutual distrust, instill a sense of mutual security, and disabuse the strong constituencies on both sides that they can have it all.During this process of reconciliation between the two sides, which should last for about two years, the U.S. with the support of the EU (led by France) should promote the Arab Peace Initiative (API) to provide the overall framework for peace based on a two-state solution.Although many Israelis celebrated the election of Trump, believing that he would not pressure Israel to accept a two-state solution, the Trump administration will make a mistake of historical proportions if it leaves Israelis and Palestinians to their own devices.The current relative calm should not be taken for granted as the simmering tension can explode any time if the Palestinians see no prospect of ending the occupation in the foreseeable future.Only by creating the social, political, and psychological atmosphere conducive to peace, and with the support of the Arab states, the EU, and other major powers, can the negotiations be resumed with a far better prospect of success. If Trump is concerned about Israels future security and political integrity, he must not hesitate to pressure Israel now to seek a solution and save it from its own destructive path.The Sunni-Shiite war: ISIS came to being in the wake of the Iraq war, which instigated a renewed violent conflict between the Sunnis and Shiites. Although the eventual defeat of ISIS is inevitable, it will not bring an end to the Sunni-Shiite conflict as long as Shiite Iran and Sunni Saudi Arabia are fighting for regional hegemony; they will continue to wage a proxy war in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen to secure their goal.The key to settling this conflict is to revisit the Iraq war and its repercussions on the Sunnis in Iraq. After 81 years of their continuous rule, the Iraqi Sunnis now find themselves at the mercy of the Shiite governing majority, which has systematically discriminated against and marginalized them from the first day the Maliki-led Shiite government came to power.The Trump administration must now understand that maintaining the unity of Iraq as a single country is no longer a viable option. Though the Sunni Iraqis loath ISIS, they despise and detest the Shiite government in Bagdad even more. To help bring a swifter end to the civil war in Iraq, the Sunnis need to be granted autonomy along the line of the Iraqi Kurds.The U.S. must now begin the dialogue between the Sunni and Shiite leadership in Iraq to reach an amicable agreement with which both can live. The three Sunni provinces that include the city of Mosul should constitute the contours of such an entity, but given the lack of natural resources (i.e. oil) in these areas, an equitable distribution of oil revenue should be established between them and the central government.In the final analysis, only a long period of peaceful coexistence between the two sides will allow them over time to develop a closer, more trusting, and friendlier relationship. This will greatly satisfy the Saudis as the Sunnis will maintain a strong foothold in Iraq while Iran will still be in a position to exert some influence on the Shiite government.This would also bring an end to the bloodshed between Sunnis and Shiites that will otherwise further escalate in the wake of ISIS inevitable defeat.The civil war in Syria: The civil war in Syria will not end unless the U.S. changes its approach to the war by putting both Putin and Assad on notice that the slaughter of Syrian civilians must immediately come to an end.The U.S. cannot assert its commanding regional role and at the same time save the Syrian people from near-complete destruction by leading from behind and merely providing military equipment and material to the rebels.That said, the U.S. must recognize that Russia has been for decades and will remain a permanent fixture in Syria, and Iran will not relinquish its longstanding interest and influence in Damascus as Tehran views Syria as the linchpin to the Shiite-dominated crescent of land between the Mediterranean and the Gulf. However unorthodox this may seem, the U.S. has little choice but to work with these two powers to find a solution.While recognizing the importance of Russias role and its willingness to cooperate with Putin to find a permanent solution, the Trump administration must also convey in unequivocal terms to Putin and Assad that they must stop the indiscriminate bombing and killing of tens of thousands of innocent Syrians while erasing one neighborhood after another.Given Putins desire to work closely with Trump, he is likely to be more receptive in finding a solution to the conflict. But if he does not, the U.S. must assert itself and be prepared to bomb and destroy all of Assads air force fields, hangars, and munitions depots.The cessation of hostilities in Syria will not, in and of itself, bring an end to the civil war, but it remains a prerequisite to open up diplomatic channels in the search for a permanent peaceful solution.In any future solution, the U.S. should not object to Assad remaining president throughout an agreed-upon transitional period if his participation keeps intact the bureaucracy, military, and internal security apparatus to prevent a replay of what happened in Iraq following the U.S. invasion.The U.S. cannot escape its responsibility, and it must now confront head-on the three most urgent and intractable conflicts before they further escalate out of control.Given that Trump is all about America First and that America has significant geopolitical interests in the region it is imperative that a Trump administration addresses these conflicts in a serious and consistent manner. Trumps first test will be his choices of advisors, who can assist him to navigate through the thicket of these conflicts.
US will be 'rogue' state if it ditches climate accord: UN envoy
UN Special Envoy Mary Robinson said the US will be a \"rogue\" state if climate deal is ignored.
Reuters, Morocco :
The United States would become "a kind of rogue country" if it pulls out of an international agreement to combat global warming, leaving the world more vulnerable to droughts and other climate extremes, warned Mary Robinson, a former Irish president and human rights advocate.
"It would be a tragedy for the United States and the people of the United States if the U.S. becomes a kind of rogue country, the only country in the world that is somehow not going to go ahead with the Paris Agreement," Robinson said in an interview with the Thomson Reuters Foundation on Sunday.
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, a Republican, has promised to pull the United States out of that global climate accord, which was agreed last year by 193 countries and which came into effect earlier this month, just in advance of his election.
The deal aims to hold climate change to "well below" 2 degrees Celsius of warming by moving the world economy away from fossil fuels. The agreement provides for $100 billion a year in international funding from 2020 to help poorer countries develop cleanly and adapt to the already inevitable impacts of climate change.
Robinson, who now runs a foundation focused on seeking justice for people hit hard by climate impacts despite having contributed little to the problem, said she was confident other countries would continue their backing for the accord regardless of any action taken by the United States.
"I don't think that the process itself will be affected (if) one country, however big and important that country is, decides not to go ahead," she said on the sidelines of U.N. climate talks in Marrakesh, due to end on Friday.
But a pullout could mean a "huge difference" to already difficult efforts to gather enough international finance to help poorer countries develop their economies without increasing their emissions, "which is what they want to do", she said.
"The moral obligation of the United States as a big emitter, and a historically big emitter that built its whole economy on fossil fuels that are now damaging the world - it's unconscionable the United States would walk away from it," she said of the threat to withdraw from the Paris deal.
However, Robinson said she sympathised with Americans who had lost their jobs in polluting industries such as coal, many of whom supported Trump in his election campaign. "Clearly they're hurting at the moment," she said, calling for assistance to help such workers retrain and win new jobs in a clean energy economy.
"But it's not a future to go backward into coal and have higher emissions in the United States," she warned. "The impact of that will be felt by poor communities and poor countries all over the world."
As a U.N. envoy for El Nino and climate change, she said she had been in dry regions of Honduras where women told her they no longer had water as a result of worsening drought.
Diabetes Day observed
Staff Reporter :
World Diabetes Day 2016 has been observed on Monday in Bangladesh as like as the other countries in the world through various programmes like rally, discussions, distributing posters and leaflets, free screening and treatments.
It observed countrywide to aware people on healthy lifestyle for better management of all types of diabetes.
The theme of the day was 'eye on diabetes, keep diabetes in control to prevent blindness.'
Bangladesh Diabetic Samity (BADAS) organised a rally from Shahbagh in the city at the morning. Besides, National Healthcare Network (NHN) and Healthcare Development Project (HCDP) also arranged separate rallies. Those organizations including Bangladesh Institution of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders (BIRDEM) also arranged free screening, treatments and discussions in various places in the capital including the National Museum. Health Minister Mohammad Nasim was the chief guest at the discussion held at BIRDEM auditorium. BADAS President Professor AK Azad Khan presided over the meeting. Professor Ashraf Sayeed, Major General (Rtd) professor A R Khan, Muhammad Saif Uddin and DG of BIRDEM Professor Nazmunnahar also gave speech.
Besides, Danish Pharma Novo Nordisk, the world's largest insulin maker, celebrated the day. Novo Nordisk participated in 103 rallies organised across the country with different associations affiliated with Bangladesh Diabetic Samiti (BADAS), to celebrate this day.
Novo Nordisk also organised a motivational programme for the children living with diabetes in BIRDEM hospital at Segun Bagicha, which is the world's largest clinic for the children.
Others organisations also observed the day with various programmes like free screenings and rallies.
Anti-Trump protests continue for 5th day
Anti-Donald Trump protesters continued to rally across the country Sunday to disavow the president-elect. Some of them are pictured holding signs outside the CNN studios in Los Angeles, California.
Reuters, New York :
Demonstrators in major U.S. cities took to the streets on Sunday for a fifth straight day to protest President-elect Donald Trump, whose campaign manager said President Barack Obama and Democrat Hillary Clinton should do more to support a peaceful transition. Following several nights of unrest, crowds of people marched in parks in New York City, San Francisco and Oakland, California, according to social media.
A few thousand joined a march at the south end of Manhattan's Central Park, beginning at a Trump property on Columbus Circle and walking toward the real estate mogul's skyscraper headquarters less than a mile (1.6 km) away. They chanted: "Say it loud, say it clear, immigrants are welcomed here," and held signs such as "White silence = violence" and "Don't mourn, organize."
One protester said demonstrators were reclaiming what the American flag he was holding stood for.
"The flag means freedom of speech, freedom of religion, equal protection under the law and other values like diversity, respecting differences, freedom of assembly and freedom of the press," said Daniel Hayman, 31, of Seattle, who was in New York for work. "We're trying to reclaim the flag and push forward those values."
Thousands in several cities have demonstrated since the results from Tuesday's election showed Trump, a Republican, lost the popular tally but secured enough votes in the 538-member Electoral College to win the presidency, surprising the world. Largely peaceful demonstrators in urban areas have said Trump threatens their civil and human rights. They have decried Trump's often inflammatory campaign rhetoric about illegal immigrants, Muslims and women, as well as allegations, which he denies, that the former reality TV star sexually abused women. Dozens have been arrested, including 71 in Portland, Oregon, on Saturday night, according to police, and a handful of police injured. In San Francisco on Sunday, about 1,000 people marched through Golden Gate Park toward a beach where they chanted: "Let's make waves." They held signs such as "I resist racism" and "Down with the Trumps."
Across the bay in Oakland, thousands of protesters joined a festival-like atmosphere, holding peace signs and blowing soap bubbles in the sunshine. Many had brought their children, aiming to hold hands around the 3.4-mile (5.5-km) circumference of Lake Merritt in a popular urban park. Civil rights groups have monitored violence against U.S. minorities since Trump's win, citing reports of attacks on women in Islamic head scarves, of racist graffiti and of bullying of immigrant children. They have called on Trump to denounce the attacks. Trump said he was 'so saddened' to hear of instances of violence by some of his supporters against minorities, according to a transcript released on Sunday of an interview with the CBS program '60 Minutes.' Kellyanne Conway, Trump's campaign manager, said on Fox News on Sunday that she was sure many of the protesters were paid professionals, although she offered no proof.
Suggesting a double standard, Conway said on NBC's "Meet the Press" that if Clinton had won the election and Trump supporters had protested, "people would be freaking out that his supporters were not accepting election results." "It's time really for President Obama and Secretary Clinton to say to these protesters: 'This man is our president,'" she said. Republican House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan told CNN on Sunday that protests were protected by the First Amendment as long as they were peaceful.
Neither Obama nor Clinton has called for an end to the protests. Obama told Trump at the White House on Thursday that he was going to help Trump succeed, "because if you succeed, then the country succeeds."
Clinton told supporters at a New York hotel on Wednesday: "Donald Trump is going to be our president. We owe him an open mind and the chance to lead." Trump on Sunday attacked the New York Times for coverage he said was "very poor and highly inaccurate." "The @nytimes sent a letter to their subscribers apologizing for their BAD coverage of me. I wonder if it will change - doubt it?" Trump wrote on Twitter.
The newspaper published a letter in Sunday's editions from publisher Arthur Sulzberger and executive editor Dean Baquet, not apologizing, but thanking readers for their loyalty and asking how news outlets underestimated Trump's support. The Times plans to "hold power to account, impartially and unflinchingly" during the Trump presidency, they wrote.
10,000 edn instts lack digital touch yet
M M Jasim :
Mirzakalu Fazil Madrasa located at Hasannagar union under Borhanuddin upazila of Bhola district, has no computer. The madrasa authorities go to local market for their official computer work.
Like the Mirzakalu Fazil Madrasa about 10 thousand schools, colleges and madrasas across the country have no computer facilities although the government assured computer, internet and multimedia classroom facilities for all educational institutions.
Bangladesh Bureau of Educational Information and Statistics (BANBEIS) sources said no computer is used at 27 percent schools, 40 percent madrasas and 11 percent colleges all over the country. There is no computer's teacher at 39 percent schools in the country.
There is no internet connection at about 9,706 educational institutions. Of them 5,485 are schools, 3911 madrasas and 305 colleges.
A total of 10,308 institutions are deprived of multimedia classrooms. Of them, 5,704 are schools, 3,865 madrasas and 789 colleges.
The school, madrasa and college authorities blamed lack of electricity connection for the absence of computer and multimedia classrooms at their respective institutions.
A teacher of Bagdubi High School wishing anonymity told The New Nation that they applied for electricity connection several times, but they are yet to get it.
Headmaster of Gander Alga High School in Kurigram Azizur Rahman told this correspondent that his school did not get any touch of digitalization as there is no electricity here.
"We cannot provide practical computer knowledge to the students. We also do not get the information of the Education Ministry from the website. And we have to go to different government offices to complete our regular activities like printing, photocopy and others," the headmaster said.
BANBEIS sources said, at least 5,000 institutions have no electricity connection. Of the institutions, 2,968 are schools, 1,751 madrasas and 141 colleges.
Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid told The New Nation on Sunday that the ministry initiated its journey for ensuring digital education from the zero level. "We brought 33 thousand educational institutions under digitalization across the country."
"We are working to bring all the institutions under digitalization. But it is matter of time. It is impossible to do everything overnight," the minister said.
Director General of Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education Professor SM Wahiduzzaman said some projects of digitalization at the educational institutions are going on. Computer, lab and multimedia will be sent at about 1,500 institutions under Teaching Quality Improvement project.
"We hope that computer, lab and multimedia will be ensured at every institution throughout the country in due course of time," the DG said.
Punitive steps against to officials suggested
Staff Report :
Police on Monday submitted the probe report on Nasirnagar attacks, recommending punitive measures against two of their officials for negligence in duties.
Mohammad Shakhawat Hossain, chief of the probe body and additional Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, Chittagong Range, submitted the report to the police headquarters in the afternoon.
"We have submitted the report to the Police Headquarters today enclosing findings of the investigation," Mohammad Shakhawat Hossain told The New Nation on Monday night confirming the matter.
When asked, he declined to disclose the details of the report saying that the Police Headquarters would brief the journalists in a day or two in this regard.
Earlier, the Police Headquarters formed the probe body to investigate into the attacks and vandalism of Hindu temples and houses at Nasirnagar in Brahmanbaria.
Sources in the Police Headquarters, however, said, the probe body has suggested actions against two police officials as it found negligence in their duties during the attacks.
The body also found an intra-party feud among the local ruling party men who provoked another group to go for the attacks on the Hindu community in Nasirnagar.
The report identified some 15-20 persons as instigators and attackers on the Hindu Community.
On October 30, religious zealots, armed with sticks and sharp weapons, went berserk for around two hours rampaging in Duttabari, Goura Mandir, Jagannath Mandir and Kashipara Mandir in Brahmanbaria's Nasirnagar and ransacked over 100 Hindu houses and looted them over a Facebook post that allegedly hurt Muslim sentiment.
At least 58 families were affected and 17 temples were either damaged or looted in at least eight Hindu-dominated areas that day
BN joins elite club
China delivers 2 submarines
Special Correspondent :
Bangladesh Navy (BN) on Monday joined the elite club of submarine operators after taking delivery of two Ming class (Type 035G) diesel-electric submarines from China.
These two submarines-Nabojatra and Joyjatra-would be added to the BN's fleet at the beginning of new year.
Rear Admiral Nizamuddin Ahmed took delivery of the submarines from Chinese Peoples Navy Rear Admiral Liu Zhi Zhu at a ceremony held in Dalian of Liaoning province in China.
"Bangladesh Navy appeared as a 3D naval force after adding the two submarines in its fleet, according to Navy's Public Relations Department.
BN personnel have already received submarine training in China to operate and maintain the Mings.
Bangladesh has already set up a base and associated infrastructure in Kutubdia Island where the submarine fleet will harbour.
In 2013, Bangladesh signed a $203 million deal with China for purchasing the two submarines to portend increasing militarisation of the Bay of Bengal.
BN, in the recent past, has also bought frigates, corvettes and patrol craft from China as part of the government plan to modernize Bangladesh's naval forces.
Bangladesh has been expanding its defence capabilities in recent years, building a new airbase close to neighbouring Myanmar, opening several new military cantonments across the country and adding new frigates to its naval fleet.
In 2013, the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina signed a billion-dollar deal with Russia to buy fighter training jets, helicopters and anti-tank missiles.
Hasina announced the plan to purchase two submarines the same year as part of her government's move to build a modern navy to defend the resource-rich Bay of Bengal.
Bangladesh had finalised the deal with China for supply of two Type 035G or Ming class export version submarines along with training at a reported cost of $ 203 million by end 2013.
These types of submarines have been in service with the Chinese navy for nearly forty years since the early 70s though the Type 035G entered service in 19907.
This class of submarine has its origin in the Soviet Romeo class design of the 50s which has been extensively modified by the Chinese. These submarines, in all likelihood, are ex-Chinese navy which were either decommissioned or placed in reserve since the Chinese navy itself is going through a modernisation phase.
These diesel-electric submarines displace 2110 tons and have a surfaced endurance of 8000 nm allowing them to stay at sea for about 60 days. They are manned by a crew of 57 personnel and carry 18 torpedoes with an option for carrying 32 mines also. Considering the vintage of the design, the sensors may not be state-of-the-art though modern fire control systems may have been installed.
The torpedoes are also likely to be early Chinese designs with ranges of about 20 - 25 km.
Four killed in police firing
50 including 6 cops injured: Panic runs high among locals
Narsingdi Correspondent :
At least four people were killed and over 50 other injured in police firing during fierce a clash between two rival factions of ruling Awami League (AL) centering previous enmity and establishing supremacy over Nilakkhoya Char at Sonakandi village in Raipura upazila of the district on Monday.
The deceased were identified as Mohammad Mamun, 22, son of Mangal Miah of village Amirabad, Manik Miah, 45, son of Altu Miah, Mohammad Khokon, 32, son of Arab Ali and Shahjahan, 25, son of Abdus Salam.
Six cops including Officer-in-Charge of Raipura police station Azharul Islam, Sub-Inspector Asaduzzman also received serious wounds. The injured villagers and police were rushed to the Raipura Health Complex.
Besides, over 16 houses were torched and many others looted during the violent clash spreading panic among the villagers there, locals said.
A tense situation is prevailing in the area. Heavy contingent of law enforcers have been deployed there. Police launched massive hunt to net the attackers. Many villagers went into hiding to avert arrest.
However, police said they opened fire in self-defense and they did not know how and in what way four people were killed.
According to local people, as a sequel to the enmity, supporters of both the groups locked into an altercation yesterday morning.
"The clash ensued between two groups of one led by incumbent AL-backed Chairman of Nilakkhoya Union Tajul Islam and former chairman Abdul Haque-over the control of their Union on Monday morning," a police official said.
Locals said earlier a series of clashes were taken place between the followers of the incumbent chairman Tajul Islam and former chairman Abdul Haque since the UP election.
"Leaders and activists of the two rival groups continued to launch attack on each and other. Panic runs high among all the villagers, as we can't feel safe and secure even single day," a villager told The New Nation yesterday evening.
On Monday the followers of two groups equipped with lethal weapons and crude bombs swooped on each other at Nilakkhoya Char adjacent village Sonakandi. At one stage the clash spread to eight other neighbouring villages and continued till afternoon, local said.
Being informed Assistant Commissioner (land) Humayun Kabir and officer-in-charge of Raipura police station Azharul Islam along with a heavy contingent of helmeted police rushed to the spot and fired several rounds of blank shots to bring the situation under control.
Being failed to control the situation, police later fired several rounds of sound grenades and tear shells targeting the troublemakers.
As the police continued their action, the followers of two groups launched attack on the members of law enforcers.
Local said at one stage police started firing targeting the agitators. Manik, Mamun and Khokon died on the spot in police firing.
Shahjahan who received serious wounds during the clash succumbed to his injuries on the way to capital Dhaka.
Anti-dumping on jute goods to hamper trade
THE business community in Bangladesh has rightly expressed the concern over the Indian governments move to impose 25 to 30 percent anti-dumping duty on export of jute goods to its market. Earlier this week media report made the disclosure of Delhi's move in this regard prompting protest from various chamber bodies and trade associations. The DCCI has also urged the Indian government on Thursday to stop the move to keep export of jute goods to India unaffected. They said the Indian move is not based on reasonable ground and justified at a time when Bangladesh is seriously lobbying with India to make our export access easier to Indian market. It contradicts fair trade.
We believe that the concern of our business circles is quite reasonable at a time the existing trade balance is over 12 times against Bangladesh. It is not correct that Bangladesh's jute goods such as jute yarn are under-priced as Indian Jute Mills Association (IJMA) claims causing loss to their competitiveness. What is true is that local producers are dominating their market because exporters from Bangladesh have to work against many disadvantages and spend a lot to reach the Indian market.
In this situation our trade circle's fear makes sense that the Indian move will seriously impact our local farmers, jute goods processors and exporters to finally add to more trade imbalance. When Bangladesh is asking India to remove the existing tariff and non-tariff barriers to fully implement the duty-free trade under SAFTA, several duty-free export items are rather facing major setback. Export of jute goods was so far at zero tariff but Indian government now wants to impose higher level of tariff on its export. RMG export is also suffering the most from counter veiling duty thus narrowing all scope for new trade creation and expansion of existing trade. Such Indian attitude is not conducive to allow Bangladesh to increase its trade to India.
Reports said that the Indian government's Directorate of Anti-dumping and allied duties is convinced that Bangladesh is dumping its cheaper jute goods into Indian market at low cost and market study has verified it. But Bangladesh Tariff Commission officials differ with the Indian claim. In our view one may also look into the new Indian government move from a different perspective. Since Bangladesh has stopped exporting raw jute, Indian jute mills owners are facing setback; as many of them were dependent on raw jute import from Bangladesh. We are not sure whether or not the new move has any relation with such decision of Bangladesh government.
We must say a big country like India can't take Bangladesh as a threat to its market. Rather Bangladesh needs support to increase exports to India to repay the growing import bills. In our view India must rethink its move.
The Undead Archives
I have finally salvaged my pre-Blogger TDR archives and added them into Blogger. They are almost totally in the form of one giant post for each month. And the formatting strayed from the originals. Sorry. But historians everywhere can rejoice that this treasure trove of my thoughts is restored to the world.
Today Armistice Day and the Red Poppy have little to do with honouring the dead, it's about manipulating the living.
Once again it's that time of year when one cannot walk down a high street or turn on the TV without having the Red Poppy waved in ones face.
When I was a child World War One veterans were still thick on the ground, my own grandfather one of them. It's not an exaggeration to say they were a forgotten people, and in many cases that was one of choice. Few if any wished to remember that bloody and unnecessary conflict which saw countless young men on both sides slaughtered helplessly. Indeed unlike those who fought in WW2, the attitude of these old Tommys seemed to be much like those who have fought in Iraq and Afghanistan:
Fuck king and country, we fought for each other and then if lucky we got to go home. Once again it's that time of year when one cannot walk down a high street or turn on the TV without having the Red Poppy waved in ones face.When I was a child World War One veterans were still thick on the ground, my own grandfather one of them. It's not an exaggeration to say they were a forgotten people, and in many cases that was one of choice. Few if any wished to remember that bloody and unnecessary conflict which saw countless young men on both sides slaughtered helplessly. Indeed unlike those who fought in WW2, the attitude of these old Tommys seemed to be much like those who have fought in Iraq and Afghanistan:
My own long dead Granddad regarded all politicians as shysters and from what I could gather his thoughts about WW1 were those of hatred, contempt and bitterness and not for the Germans and Turks he had fought, but for the senior officers and politicians who in some cases were interchangeable.*
One bitter cold winter afternoon, when he was ploughing a field, as I clung to the mud guard of the Massey Ferguson tractor with which he hauled the plough, he told me he had never attended a remembrance day and never would: as he had no wish to be in the company of the types who sent him and his mates to fight in a senseless war, to kill blokes much like himself.
One of the nice things about the Irish is their tradition of in death celebrating people's lives. Poppy day is a monstrosity because it does the exact opposite and celebrates death, albeit dressed up in the same type of jingoistic language which led to the slaughter of a whole generation during WW1.
It's ghoulish and undignified to allow at its centre the very same type of people, Royalty, Prime Ministers and Generals who were the donkeys which sent a whole generation of young men into the meat grinder that was WW1. And for What?
I have no wish to insult other people's beliefs and if they so choose they have every right to wear the Red Poppy, but I would suggest 'celebrating' the deaths of countless young men 100 years on in such a non inclusive way, is playing a very dangerous game. It cannot but encourage the 'war party' which governs the UK today to become embroiled in ever more military conflicts overseas.
Whether it be Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Syria or the Yemen, all the evidence cries out becoming involved militarily in other people's civil wars only makes a bad situation worse.
Those who propagate the Royal British Legion's poppy day use words like 'sacrifice,' 'our boys, 'the fallen.' They never ever mentioned the futility and obscenity of war. If they did I might have some sympathy with them, but they do not. What was the point of WW1, beyond the elite of the great powers squabbling and then fighting over the spoils of new markets, etc? The European great powers set the peoples of one nation against another using the most flimsy pretext and then used the most obscene propaganda to instill hatred between these nations.
This type of putrid apple never falls far from the tree.
This word sacrifice is used in this context as some sort of noble act. Perhaps someone could explain to me what was noble about going over the top at the Somme like lemmings to the slaughter. On the first day of the battle alone, 19,240 British soldiers lost their lives. This was not a noble sacrifice. It was a mass slaughter overseen by wicked politicians and organised by incompetent Generals who had placed machine guns in the rear to ensure, "every man did his duty."
Please do not misunderstand me, by saying this I mean no insult to the dead of WW1. When Alan Clark wrote they were lions led by donkeys he was spot on.
There is an element of blooding in the manner the MSM and the politicians use Poppy Day. If you refuse to 'celebrate' the blood sacrifice of countless young people in unnecessary wars, it's implied you're being disloyal, unpatriotic and the poppy fascists rage against you in the mainstream media and on social media.
Whenever these reactionaries begin to lose the argument, they wheel out WW2. True it was a necessary war, one of the few the UK State has ever engaged in. But even that necessary conflagration which left 50 million people dead came about due to the crass stupidity of those who led the victorious Allies after the end of WW1. When they refused to sign a just peace with Germany, preferring to grind the German people into the ground, they opened the door for the rise of Hitler..
Surely there must be a better, and more inclusive way of commemorating 'all of those' who have had their lives stolen in wars. As things stand today we have a hierarchy of victims, headed by and including only the dead of the UK armed forces.
* Churchill for example went from government minister to senior officer, to Government minister in the space of one year. After his disastrous fiasco of the Gallipoli landings in the Dardanelles, he morphed into a Lieutenant Colonel, returning to government as Munitions minister in 1917. Proving 'these people' have no shame.
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SPRINGFIELD Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner's vision of a swift, post-election budget compromise is off to a rocky start after a key Democratic leader cited a last-minute "schedule conflict" as the reason for missing a meeting the Republican governor requested.
Republican leaders who met with Rauner on Monday blasted Democrats for their absence and said they need to be engaged to move forward.
"It is completely inexcusable," said Republican Sen. Christine Radogno, the GOP's Senate leader.
Rauner said last week he was "cautiously optimistic" when he asked House and Senate leaders to meet to begin work on ending a 16-month budget standoff but the absence of ruling Democrats shows how challenging it continues to be to find compromise.
The political standoff has led to cuts to social service providers, some of whom have shut down altogether, and an uncertain future for higher education institutions that are receiving less funding than they have in the past.
The governor called the meeting days after the results from Election Day, when Republicans diminished the Democrats' numbers in the Legislature with Rauner's financial backing. The day before the meeting was set to take place, Rauner got a response from Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan.
"A short time ago, I determined a schedule conflict will prevent a meeting with the governor and other legislative leaders," Madigan said in a statement Sunday evening. "We will continue to work to schedule a meeting and look forward to getting an agenda for the meeting from the governor."
Madigan did not provide details of the conflict.
"I can't imagine what conflict is more important than the challenges facing the people of this state," Radogno said.
After Madigan's announcement, Senate President John Cullerton bowed out, saying the meeting wouldn't be productive without everyone there. He said he hoped the meeting could be reschedule for Tuesday.
Last December, Madigan also said a scheduling conflict kept him from attending one of the governor's budget meetings. He didn't say what the conflict was then, either.
Lawmakers return to Springfield on Tuesday for a brief, annual fall session after one of the most expensive and contentious election cycles in Illinois history. Rauner used about $30 million of his personal wealth to support GOP candidates in last week's elections, giving money to both political committees and individuals, forcing Democrats to raise unprecedented amounts of money to compete with his millions.
Although Republicans made gains in the Legislature, Democrats still have considerable majorities in each chamber and have resisted Rauner's demands for union-weakening, business-friendly legislation as part of any budget deal. Rauner has argued his ideas are a meant to grow the state's economy, but Democrats have said his policies would harm middle-class families.
As wildfires cause major problems in drought-plagued areas of the Southeast, the weather forecast is not encouraging.
La Nina has arrived and could hang around through winter, government weather forecasters say.
La Nina, the flip side of El Nino, is the periodic cooling of the central Pacific Ocean that affects weather patterns around the globe. Predictions called for fleeting La Nina conditions that could last through February.
It's "anticipated to be a weak, short-lived event," said Mike Halpert of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Prediction Center.
In the United States, the arrival of La Nina usually brings wetter winters to the northern Rockies, Pacific Northwest and Ohio Valley and warmer, drier conditions to southern parts.
There's a 55 percent chance La Nina will stick around through winter, causing the drought to persist in regions of the Southeast, Southern California and the southern Plains, NOAA said.
NOAA plans to release a winter forecast update this week. Last month, the agency predicted warmer and drier-than-normal conditions for the South.
Already in the South, drought has turned pine trees into matchsticks and forced people to evacuate their homes ahead of fast-moving flames. With humidity so low, the normally lush Appalachians and Great Smoky Mountains had plenty of tinder. Tens of thousands of acres have burned and authorities are bracing for more.
The national drought report shows 41.6 million people in parts of 15 Southern states living in drought conditions. The worst is in Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi and Tennessee, but extreme drought also is spreading into the western Carolinas. Kentucky, Tennessee and North Carolina all have fierce fires.
Smoke from the fires is affecting areas far from the blazes, with haze and smoky conditions in The T&D Region and around South Carolina.
On Thursday, the S.C. Forestry Commission expanded its State Foresters Burning Ban from five Upstate counties to all Piedmont counties. The counties covered by the ban include Abbeville, Anderson, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York.
State Forester Gene Kodama expanded the ban because of weather conditions in the Piedmont region that present an elevated risk of wildfire. The diversion of additional agency resources to a wildfire in Pickens County also contributed to the expansion of the burning ban.
A State Foresters Burning Ban prohibits outdoor burning, which includes yard debris burning and burning for forestry, wildlife or agricultural purposes. While campfires and open-fire cooking are not included in the ban, the Forestry Commission strongly encourages all citizens in the five counties to refrain from any unnecessary burning.
Residents in counties not subject to the burning ban are cautioned to be extremely vigilant when burning yard debris and/or conducting prescribed burns. State law requires that citizens outside of unincorporated areas notify the Forestry Commission before burning outdoors. The notification is a quick, easy, automated process, and the toll-free numbers for each county are provided at http://www.state.sc.us/forest/fyard.htm
Badger has body armor.
The 6-year-old Belgian Malinois is the Orangeburg Department of Public Safetys only K-9.
Hes trained in drugs, tracking and suspect apprehension, handler Cpl. Ryan Cornforth said. Cornforth has been his handler for about three years.
Badger recently received a stab- and bullet-resistant vest that will help him stay safe while at work.
Thanks to a non-profit organization, Vested Interest in K9s Inc., of East Taunton, Massachusetts, Badger received his body armor vest free of charge. The vest is valued at about $2,000.
Not only does Badgers new vest protect him from the harm of bullets or punctures, hes wearing the vest in memory of a K-9 who was killed in the line of duty.
The underside of Badgers vest has the words In memory of K-9 Nicky, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police, NV.
K-9 Nicky was shot on March 31, 2016 when a LVMP officer opened fire on a suspect.
Prior to that incident, K-9 Nicky, also a Belgian Malinois, had returned to duty after recovering from stab wounds he received during a standoff in February.
Cornforth said Badger is most vulnerable when hes deployed to track suspects and when hes dispatched to clear a house or building before officers enter.
His vest weighs less than five pounds and will shield him from potential danger.
Cornforth said Badger undergoes many hours of weekly training to make sure hes keeping his skills sharpened.
He can detect five different narcotics: marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin and crack cocaine.
He is nationally certified and underwent extensive training at the Tarheel K-9 facility in Sanford, North Carolina.
Each year, Badger and Cornforth must re-certify at the Tarheel facility to ensure Badgers skills remain top-notch.
Cornforth estimates that Badger has assisted in at least 60 cases of drug/money seizures for local, state and federal agencies.
Badgers work has also resulted in drug convictions for several suspects.
Cornforth said hes thankful for the generosity of Vested Interest in K9s and Badger is, too.
Orangeburg Consolidated School District 5 currently needs 19 teachers, and administrators are urging the S.C. Department of Education to approve an alternative means of certification.
Shawn Williams, head of OCSD5 Human Resources, recently told trustees the district hasnt been able to hire enough teachers in the special education, foreign language, English as a second language, elementary and early childhood areas.
Theres none out there. ... This is a national epidemic that were facing, she said.
The Human Resources department has contacted all 30 of the states colleges that train teachers, specifically looking for students who are graduating in December, Williams said.
Seven students from South Carolina State University and Claflin University have signed letters of agreement to teach in the district next semester, she said.
The district currently uses teachers certified through the Program of Alternative Certification for Educators, but that still doesnt supply enough teachers, she said. For one thing, PACE does not offer certification of early childhood or elementary teachers.
Shes been filling up the state departments ears with requests for a different type of alternative certification for teachers who have experience, but are not certified in the needed areas, Williams said.
Trustee Vernon Stephens said he and other trustees will contact legislators and other officials about developing an alternative means of certifying teachers.
Some other local districts also reported a shortage of teachers, including Bamberg District 2 and Orangeburg Consolidated School District 4.
Bamberg 2 Superintendent Dr. Thelma Sojourner says she needs an elementary teacher and a special education teacher.
The shortage came about because of the increase in student enrollment, according to Sojourner. At present, the district is serving all students, but has had to increase the number of students in classes, she said.
Bamberg 2 has reached out to hire teachers from other countries to meet its educational needs, Sojourner said.
OCSD4 spokesman Ernest Holiday said the district has hired a math teacher who will come on board in January, but is still looking for social studies teacher.
The shortage of teachers is a problem that cuts across the state and nation and is expected to increase in upcoming years.
According to a 2015 survey by the Center for Educator Recruitment, Retention and Advancement, South Carolina does not produce a sufficient number of teachers each year to replace those retiring or leaving the profession, especially in the sciences, social studies, mathematics and special education areas.
More than 5,300 did not return to their teaching jobs in the fall of 2015, a 33 percent increase over the fall of 2014 and a 66 percent increase over the fall of 2013.
The results are in and the Democrats are experiencing a shock in response to what they perceive as an uneducated mob -- the populists -- taking majority democratic control. Who are these people? The assumption is that they are racist and bigoted. They are neither. In fact they are rather boring. What many dont realize, is that they want what most people want:
They want the federal government to behave like an adult. This means a real plan to reduce the national debt, controlled sensible immigration, no illegal immigration and higher economic growth to create the jobs they need to fulfill their personal goals for an improved life.
They want to live in communities that find the right balance between protecting human rights but also give them the freedom to act and behave according to their beliefs.
But as Americans are still processing election results, the first question many are asking is, what? Here is some insight into four of the most important:
* What? Less government? Many Democrats see all progress as requiring more government and more regulations. Total government spending in the USA is about 40 percent of GDP. The United States now has a $20 trillion national debt. The populists correctly point out that the private sector creates all the wealth that the government spends. The private sector wants the federal government to learn to live within its allowance (no deficit spending). The liberal progressives cannot deal with having to make the hard choices of what to cut back.
* What? Profit is good? Democrats say the only thing that business people care about is maximizing profits. Profit is a measure of how efficient you are in attracting and serving customers. Maximizing profit maximizes national wealth. Maximizing profit maximizes government revenues. Maximizing profit is where the capital comes from to invest in and create new businesses. Maximizing profit is good.
* What? Not white and uneducated? The liberal progressives cannot accept that many African-Americans, Latinos and other minority races and religions voted for Trump. How could these minorities vote for a white, uneducated populist movement? Perhaps the answer is that it is not a white uneducated populist movement. Rather it is a majority of people of all backgrounds who want their government to move toward generating a surplus, to create economic growth and to have a pragmatic foreign policy. In fact, these populists want to make America great again.
* What? Make America great again? The United States has an outstanding record as a multicultural society in creating a high standard of economic wellbeing and human rights. The mix of government with free market capitalism is an engine for progress.
This election was about many issues. Each voter had his or her own list. But this race can be best summarized by three statements:
1. Federal government, please get your act together. Come up with a plan to reduce the national debt. Enforce the law or make new ones but do not willfully disrespect our laws. Re-engineer your vast array of laws, regulations and bureaucracies to try and deliver efficient accountable government services.
2. Back off in attacking who I am and my familys values. Get off this social justice, ethnic group obsession. We are all Americans. Please treat us equally and speak to us as one class of people with the same aspirations.
3. Supreme Court, interpret our existing laws. Do not usurp the role of the state legislatures by creating new laws.
Dick Sim is the author of Freedom to Argue: We the People Versus They the Government. He spent 30 years traveling the world overseeing global industrial operations, which included serving as CEO and chairman of two NYSE public companies. For more information, visit www.freedomtoargue.com.
After Republican Mitt Romney lost the 2012 election, billionaire Donald Trump said the Electoral College is a disaster for democracy.
During the 2016 campaign, Trump said the election process in America is rigged, urging his supporters to be on the lookout for fraud.
The Republican refused to say whether he would accept the outcome, prompting all sorts of speculation about Trump supporters resorting to violence in the aftermath of what nearly every poll forecast would be his defeat in the Nov. 8 election.
Hillary Clinton and Democrats did not complain about the Electoral College system under which a president is elected not by total national popular vote but by the electoral vote totals based on winning individual states. Its the system set up by the founding fathers.
But history and the nations legal foundation for elections had nothing to do with the Democrats position prior to Tuesday. The Electoral College math favors Democrats, with the votes from the two largest states, California and New York, near certainties for the nominee. From there the 2016 election was supposed to be a matter of simply holding the majorities put together by President Barack Obama in 2008 and 2013 in key states such as Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin.
Leave it to the voters to change everything.
No longer does Trump have any reason to complain about the Electoral College. Not only did he defy predictions in holding on to states that are GOP strongholds, Trump won the election. He did it not by total national popular vote, but by getting narrow majorities in states that were to be Clintons: Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Florida and North Carolina.
The outcome left Clinton, Democrats and even many Trump supporters in shock. The candidates prediction of a mass turnout of voters dissatisfied with the state of the country and its government proved accurate. In the swing states of the so-called Rust Belt, new voters showed up and others previously voting Democratic crossed over to cast ballots for Trump. The Reagan Democrats of 1980 are the Trump Democrats of 2016.
Now Democrats are crying foul. They point to losing a presidential election for the second time in 16 years when their candidate won the popular vote. Al Gore was defeated by George W. Bush in 2000 after losing Floridas electoral votes in a razor-tight election that was contested all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court.
They claim voter intimidation and suppression contributed to lower turnout of minorities that cost Clinton the votes she needed in key states. And they are angry.
Instead of Trump supporters not accepting the results, Democrats are the ones protesting. And whether the protesters are Democrats and Clinton supporters or not, hundreds have taken to the streets in the days since the Trump electoral victory. Some openly predict violence.
All on both sides of the electoral outcome should step back and take a deep breath.
Trump has been magnanimous in victory, no longer sounding like the fiery candidate willing to say anything to spark passion in his supporters. He has praised Clinton and Obama after vilifying both on the campaign trail.
Obama and Clinton have pledged their full support to Trump in making the transition to the presidency. And the nation as a whole should do the same in giving the president-elect a chance to prove himself.
America is a great country and the electoral system is at the root of what makes it possible for candidates to fight it out in the roughest fashion until Election Day and then pledge support for the winner after the votes are counted.
The founding fathers saw the Electoral College as a tool in balancing federalism with the rights of the people in individual states They built a system founded on constitutional principles and the rule of law. At its root is the expectation of a peaceful transfer of presidential power.
Thankfully that system serves to temper extremes, no matter the occupant of the Oval Office. The system and the winner it produced in 2016, the same as in other presidential elections, deserve support.
BAMBERG -- SouthernCarolina Alliance Executive Director Danny Black brought Bamberg County Council up to date the economic development group's work to improve the quality of life in the region.
Black's group serves the Bamberg, Allendale, Barnwell, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper counties.
The SCA to date has brought $105 million in private investment to the region and just over 260 new jobs, Black reported.
Gov. Nikki Haley was among those who celebrated the opening of Bamberg County's new barrel-making company, Blackwater Barrels , on Sept. 21.
Black said the the SCA also has an ongoing marketing plan, with "42 or 45" active projects being pursued for the region.
Bamberg County is one of six Promise Zones, or high-poverty communities, where the federal government partners with local leaders to address priorities. Black said 41 grant applications have already been submitted through the Promise Zone to provide services in both Bamberg County and across the region.
"A lot of those have to do with health care," with crime prevention, broadband access and workforce training among the other service targets, he said.
Black said the SCA has already applied for a $1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, along with a $4 million U.S. Department of Labor grant, to address the region's needs, particularly after a welding school that addressed workforce needs closed.
"We're trying to get some money to do that again," he said, noting there were 146 participants who went through the welding training program and found employment.
Also during the meeting, Mallory Biering, Keep Bamberg County Beautiful director, presented checks to recognize cheerleaders from Andrew Jackson Academy and Denmark-Olar High School and the Bamberg-Ehrhardt High student council for participating in the litter-free game program. The funds -- $300 to AJA and $250 to the two other groups -- came from Palmetto Pride.
In other business, Treasurer Alice Johnson reported the county's total income for September was $399,252. Expenses came in at $795,030, leaving a negative balance of $395,818, she said.
The county will have increased income from the receipt of real estate taxes, the notices for which were sent out in October, Johnson said.
Finance Director T.M. Thomas reported the general fund had generated $1,113,414 in year-to-date revenue as of the end of September. He said expenditures stood at $1,702,923, reflecting a negative balance of $589,509.
"Overall, all departments are operating within budget and within expected bounds," Thomas said.
Controller Gina Smith said work is being done to reduce deficiencies in the county's accounting and financial reporting system.
The county's books were turned over to its auditors in mid-October, Smith said, noting that she had built a spread sheet of all the county's cash balances for the past three years.
She said her goal is to keep audit fees down and reduce material weaknesses that may appear in the audit report.
"We're doing more," but it's not a simple task because the county has 12 funds which carry their own set of books, balance sheets, income statements and "rules and nuances," Smith said.
Also at the meeting, council gave final third-reading approval to an ordinance to restate and affirm the Bamberg County Fire Service area, the county fire service coordinator and the Bamberg County Fire Advisory Board, including repealing and revoking all related prior ordinances and resolutions.
No one made comments during the public hearing held to address the ordinance.
Bamberg County Administrator Joey said approval of the ordinance was important in letting fire departments know what their job responsibilities are. The Colston and Ehrhardt fire departments are considering a "territory swap," a potential deal that was referred to the county's public safety committee, Preston said. He said there were no plans for a new fire department, "at least not at this time."
In his report, the administrator said he anticipates 200 to 400 people showing up for the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new courthouse annex at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 18.
County voters in a November 2012 referendum approved the penny sales tax that will fund $4.4 million in construction projects, and Preston reported most of those projects are nearing completion, including a new roof for Denmark's Dane Theater.
He noted the county is in the planning stage of creating a veterans' memorial.
"We're working on that," Preston said, adding the county will need thousands more than the $75,000 allocated through the penny sales tax to make the proposed memorial the tourist destination it deserves to be.
In other business:
Jerry Bell of the Bamberg County Chamber of Commerce President announced the Chamber's 50th Annual Banquet will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17, at the Olar Fire Department and the county's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is set for 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4, at the county courthouse.
Council appointed Shawn Hanks, pastor of Colston Branch Baptist Church, to the Lower Savannah Council of Governments board, replacing the late Jasper Varn.
Council approved the appointment of Cindy Hurst, Jeff Deibel and James Harold Barnwel Jr. to the Bamberg County Property Maintenance Code Appeals Board.
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The 1930s was not just the era of Hitler, Mussolini and Franco. It also saw unprecedented mass strikes in France and the highest point of the US labour movement so far.
Complacent assumptions that the racist right will burn itself out are dangerous. So is despair that overstates their strength and our weakness. Both are recipes for inaction that can be lethal
Conventional political certainties are being swept away. Parties that believed they had massive and secure support bases are suddenly losing them.The centre of politics is falling apart. Deep anger at the grinding economic crisis, stagnant or collapsing living standards, and an undemocratic and unaccountable political elite is bursting to the surface in unpredictable ways The Financial Times newspaper wrote after Donald Trumps victory, The American people have spokenor perhaps shouted and nothing is likely to be the same again. The mere fact of Mr Trumps victory puts him halfway towards obliterating an establishment that was largely united in revulsion at his candidacy.Every pollster in the land misread the US public. By electing a man whom voters knew to be disrespectful of US constitutional niceties, America has dispatched the electoral equivalent of a suicide bomber to Washington. Mr Trumps mandate is to blow up the system.More pithily the French ambassador to the US tweeted, Everything is now possible. A world is collapsing before our eyes.The question is whether the fury at big business and the political elite is turned leftwards or grabbed by the racists and the right.It can fuel great new socialist movements that offer hope or give ammunition to the fascists.This is the era of both Trump and Jeremy Corbyn Capitalism is not delivering, and it is less and less credible to say that with just a few small reforms it can be made to work for the benefit of all For a period in the 1950s special circumstances allowed the system to expand and deliver some improvements for at least a section of the worlds ordinary people. But that era has long past.Today there are many parallels with the 1930s, when fascist movements flourished against the background of a devastating economic crisis.The threat of fascism should be taken very seriously The regime responsible for the Holocaust was destroyed, but the system that created it lives on. But the 1930s was not just the era of Hitler, Mussolini and Franco.It also saw unprecedented mass strikes in France and the highest point of the US labour movement so far.It also saw the Spanish Revolution and powerful workers struggles in Germany that could have blocked the fascists and gone on to fight for socialist change.One of the key elements today is the failure of the Labour-type social democratic parties. In Spain, Greece, France and Britain they implemented austerity, and paid a heavy price.In some cases this has fuelled parties further to the left , such asfor a periodSyriza and Podemos.Elsewhere the far right has grownsuch as Marine Le Pens Front National in France.The trade union leaderswho in general have held back struggle in Britain, the US and much of Europehave also made it easier for the right to grow.When there are big strikes workers feel their unity and their anger is directed upwards against the bosses and the state.When struggle is held back it is easier for individualism and division to emerge.Sunday 4 December could see Ukip leader Nigel Farage lead a march in London at the same time as fascist Norbert Hofer wins the Austrian presidential election.Its also important to say that broad similarities between events in different countries can mask fundamental differences.Donald Trumps victory is not the same as the Leave vote in Britain.Its true that both rest upon deep dissatisfaction among broad layers of working class people. But there is a strongly progressive case for opposing the neoliberal, austerity-imposing, migrant-repelling European Union (EU).There is no progressive case for Trump.However contradictory peoples reasons, voting for a bigoted boss is not the same as voting against the bosses EU.The US presidential election saw a 57 percent turnout, a continuation of a long-term trend where about half the population dont vote. The EU referendum in contrast saw a huge turnout of 72 percent.Although Trump alienated many leading Republicans, the party and its voters largely held together behind him. Brexit split the Tories in half with many ministers, activists and voters backing Remain.The Leave sides most visible supporters were racists no better than Trump. But others were more like those who rallied to Bernie Sanders left wing case against neoliberal trade deals.Marine Le Pen, who could win the first round of Frances election next year, cheered both Trump and Brexit. But her Front National party represents a distinct danger.Trump barged his way to the head of one of the existing main parties. Le Pen is seeking to sweep them aside with an organised, active movement all of her own.Trump stands in the tradition of celebrity-turned-Republican-president Ronald Reaganand of US populists who won big votes only to fizzle away. Le Pen is a real fascist.Some narratives submerge these differences. For example, many articles have tried to explain a rise in nationalism in psychological terms.They say industrial decline and economic crisis made fearful workers turn inwards. They say civil rights and womens liberation made white people and men resentful of a relative loss of privilege.Others erect a false division in society.On one side are the backward isolationiststhe angry, the racist, the uneducated and the poor (or at least poor whites).On the other are the forces of opennessthe European Union (EU), the US Democratic Party, globalisation and anyone with progressive politics. But this masks a real class war.The institutions of neoliberal capitalism are no friends of those who defend freedom and equality.Toxic nationalists are no friends of those who have suffered from globalisations effects.Democrat Barack Obama oversaw more deportations than any other president, across a border thats already in large part walled off.Labour prime minister Tony Blair brought tough measures against immigrants supposedly placing our hospitality under threat.The EU builds external border controls to keep out supposed economic migrants, bogus asylum seekers and terror threats. These same myths boosted racists against EU migrants.The respectable yet often vicious Islamophobia of the war on terror also created a space for more extreme forms.Caricaturing the situation lets a society that breeds despair off the hookalong with politicians who use racism to exploit or deflect that despair. And it avoids the question of what we can do about it.Confronting reality with all its contradictions reveals a challenge thats daunting but not hopeless.Racist scapegoating can tap into workers fears. But few workers buy into it fully.Many believe that there is too much immigration in the abstract, for example, yet defend actual immigrantsfrom their workmates to refugee children.There is a sense of the weakness of the socialist left and the trade union movement. But the sudden surges in support for Sanders and Corbyn revealed much wider demand for left wing ideas than previously suspected.Mass protests and strikes appear to be reviving in the US. In Britain they remain generally at a low ebbalthough when given the chance to strike workers take it up enthusiastically.The situation can change. Throughout the history of the working class in Britain, long periods of decline for the trade unions have alternated with strike waves that build them anew.Theres no guarantee that this will happen again, though stirrings of activity even among supposedly unorganisable groups of workers are a reminder not to rule it out.France, where the situation currently seems bleakest, shows this vividly. Authoritarian president Charles De Gaulle governed almost unchallenged except by the hard right, up to a few months before the biggest general strike ever in 1968 And mass strikes earlier this year were a reminder of working class power, re-energising debates about how to unleash it.Economic crisis and the political volatility it produces can increase the opportunities for such explosions.People are less likely to trust the existing system to safeguard their future and more likely to look beyond itone way or another.Complacent assumptions that the racist right will burn itself out are dangerous.So is despair that overstates their strength and our weakness. Both are recipes for inaction that can be lethal.Instead we need a mass movement against racism , united opposition to the fascists who feed on it, and a real alternative to the system that breeds it.
By Azernews
By Nigar Abbasova
Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR may soon expand its participation in the modernization of Egyptian energy industry.
Azerbaijani Ambassador to Egypt Tural Rzayev said that Egyptian side is interested in broader participation of SOCAR in the oil industry of the country.
For now, energy is deemed to be the main dimension of cooperation between the two countries. The worth of oil export from Azerbaijan to Egypt amounted to some $300 million in January-September 2016. The two countries intend to expand their cooperation in the sphere, he said.
The envoy further said that the issue of bolstering cooperation was high on agenda during the meeting between SOCAR head Rovnag Abdullayev and Egyptian side in early November.
Within his visit to Egypt, Abdullayev held talks with Egyptian Petroleum Minister Tarek El Molla.
The sides discussed the expansion of cooperation between SOCAR and the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC, a national oil company of Egypt), hailed the role of SOCAR in the in modernization and improvement of Egypts oil industry and exchanged views on the implementation of other joint projects.
The two companies, that have six-year successful energy cooperation, also signed a Memorandum of Mutual Understanding (MOU).
The agreement envisages the execution of long term oil and gas projects. Moreover, SOCAR is expected to provide nearly 2 million barrels crude oil to Egypts MIDOR and Nasr Petroleum refineries, according to Egypt Oil&Gas.
Additionally, the document covers the cooperation between the two countries in the fields of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and petrochemicals.
By Azernews
By Nigar Abbasova
Being the main export market of Azerbaijan for agricultural products, Russia recorded a growth in the volume of tomatoes imported from the country.
Azerbaijan has managed to enter the top-three and became a runner-up in the list of main exporters of tomatoes to Russia.
The country exported some 86,000 tons of tomatoes in January-September 2016, recording a 56 percent growth in the volume, as compared to the figures of 2015, according to Izvestia.
Morocco held the leading positions in the list, while the volume of imported tomatoes from the country amounted to 88,700 tons, recording an increase of 158 percent in the reported period.
Azerbaijan places a serious emphasis on the promotion of export potential, while local entrepreneurs get a huge assistance and a number of incentives.
Moreover, Azerbaijans Deputy Agriculture Minister Ilham Guliyev, earlier said that the two countries established a "green corridor" for the export of agricultural products, which in turn positively influenced the trade turnover between the countries.
Azerbaijan entered the top 3 suppliers of agricultural products to Russia among the CIS countries, after Moscow imposed anti-Turkish sanctions. Then, rejection of Turkish tomatoes became one of the critical issues for Russia, as nearly 70 percent of tomatoes in the Russian market are imported.
However, experts say that mending of ties between Turkey and Russia does not affect the growth of the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Russia, as the figure increases every year, due to the quality of Azerbaijani products and their already well-established place on the Russian market.
The trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Russia totaled $1.35 billion in January-September 2016, with some $251.6 million accounting for the export of Azerbaijani goods to Russia, according to Azerbaijans State Customs Committee. Russia is the third among importers from Azerbaijan.
By Trend
Over the past 24 hours, Armenias armed forces have 15 times violated the ceasefire along the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops, Azerbaijans Defense Ministry reported on November 14.
The Azerbaijani army positions located in Qaymaqli village of Azerbaijans Gazakh district underwent fire from the Armenian army positions located in Barekamavan village of the Noyemberyan district of Armenia.
The Azerbaijani army positions located in Munjuglu village of Azerbaijans Tovuz district underwent fire from the Armenian army positions located on the nameless heights of the Berd district of Armenia.
Moreover, the Azerbaijani army positions also underwent fire from the Armenian positions located near the Armenian-occupied Chilaburt village of the Tartar district, as well as on nameless heights of the Goranboy, Tartar and Fizuli districts.
The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations.
Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts.
By Trend
Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has accused the head of the European Parliament of defending the terrorist group PKK after the latter criticized the detention of journalists and opposition lawmakers on terror charges, Anadolu reported.
They are defending the PKK very well. Was there any statement from Schulz and those who think like him after our governor was martyred? Cavusoglu told reporters when asked about the European Parliaments President Martin Schulzs earlier remarks on arrests targeting journalists and lawmakers.
The Turkish minister was referring to Muhammet Fatih Safiturk, the governor of Mardin's Derik district, who succumbed Friday to wounds sustained in a PKK terrorist attack.
[Martin] Schulzs threatening statements have no effect on us, Cavusoglu told reporters in the Turkish capital Ankara following a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.
First, [he] should stop the activities of the PKK in the European Parliament, Cavusoglu said.
If he is strong enough, he should be using this discourse against those supporting terror in the EU member countries, he added.
The Turkish minister said that Schulz would do whatever was necessary to impose economic sanctions against Turkey.
Earlier this month, Martin Schulz, the European Parliaments president, reacted to the arrest of 11 journalists from the Cumhuriyet daily in Istanbul and Ankara as well as the arrest of lawmakers from Turkey's opposition Peoples Democratic Party (HDP) on terror charges.
Media reports said he had indicated that the EU could impose sanctions on Turkey following the anti-terror operations.
The PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S., and EU -- resumed its decades-old armed campaign in July last year. Since then, more than 300 civilians and nearly 800 security personnel have been martyred. Around 8,000 PKK terrorists have been killed or apprehended.
The UAE Exchange, a leading money transfer service in the region, has clarified that the exchange is not accepting the demonetised currency notes of India's Rs500 and Rs1,000 denomination.
The clarification follows fake WhatsApp Audio messages that are circulating in the UAE and across the GCC claiming that the UAE Exchange is accepting the demonetised currency notes, said the company.
"We would like to ensure that those are false claims which are misleading the public to visit the branches all over the country trying to exchange the notes," it said
"We are receiving a lot of inbound calls seeking service assistance to exchange these notes. We would like to reassure you that we are closely monitoring the situation and are standing by to make necessary arrangements as and when notified by Reserve Bank of India and/or Government of India for handling such notes outside India," the exchange house said.
"As of today, all UAE Exchange branches worldwide are not accepting the demonetised currency notes until further notice," it said.
All updates and communication on this matter will be issued through our official channels via uaeexchange.com, official Facebook and Twitter accounts, and press announcements, it added. -TradeArabia News Service
Cofely Besix Facility Management (CBFM), a leading facility management provider in the region, has launched the 'Al Mareefa' training bus - a purpose-built mobile training facility to provide on-site training to all its employees in the UAE.
It was created by a team of in-house carpenters and electricians who renovated a second-hand school bus by removing 75 per cent of the bus seats in order to build workbenches for the training, said a statement from the company.
The bus has also been modified with a mini-theatre style seating arrangement and TV monitor for class-room type training, it stated.
Simulation panels, such as electrical distribution boards for the practical part of the training were also installed.
The bus also boasts a state-of-the-art vehicle fire suppression system, and has its own independent power supplier via an on-board generator.
The training bus will regularly visit 50 sites across the UAE providing training on-site for all its employees located at the various projects managed by CBFM.
The company also plans to host special community-based training programmes at labour accommodation camps, schools, and remote farming communities within the country, it said.
"In this hectic business of supporting customers, it is always challenging to keep technicians up to date with the latest safety and technical requirements, and with the Al Mareefa bus we can take the training directly to the employees, however remote," explained Ian Harfield, the company CEO.
"It also allows us to make training and development a seamless and non-disruptive activity, which is especially appreciated by our customers," he added.
The training sessions, which are conducted only when the bus is stationary, can accommodate 14 people simultaneously.
Andre Mars, the HSQE (health, safety, quality and environment) manager, said: "The training provided on board the bus, is technical in nature with a focus on mechanical, electrical, HVAC (heating, ventilation and air-conditioning) and plumbing, hence we had to make sure the bus was fully-equipped with all the necessary equipment required, as well as adequate space to conduct practical training too."
"I am extremely proud of my team for developing such a unique innovation that adds real value to our customers," remarked Harfield.
"Additionally, by providing training at our labour camps we are also enabling our non-skilled employees to learn basic skills, skills which they will keep and take to their home countries which will transform their lives and the lives of their families and localities," he stated.
"We also hope to visit local schools across the UAE over the coming months, to educate children on the basics of facilities management and maintenance, which will show them how they can contribute to the upkeep of their homes and surroundings," he added.
A team of Cofely Besix FM volunteers will also visit remote farming areas in the UAE in Al Mareefa where for the first time some of the Asian sub-continent workers in farming will have access to a bespoke training centre, said the company statement.
They will be shown how to deal with basic electrical wiring, air-conditioning, plumbing as well as water hygiene, as part of the companys corporate social responsibility initiative, it added.-TradeArabia News Service
Leading regional and global real estate developers, contractors, consultants, master planners, property owners and designers are taking part in The International District Cooling Conference 2016 which opened in Dubai, UAE, on Monday.
The two-day event will see high-ranking industry officials and experts discuss the strategic use of district cooling in saving energy and enabling sustainability in modern cities, said the event organisers.
It was officially inaugurated by Ahmad Bin Shafar, the chief executive of Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower), and Rob Thornton, the president and chief executive of International District Energy Association (Idea) in the presence of top officials and experts accompanied by a delegation of the public and private sector.
The districtCooling: A Climate Solution event is being held at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai.
"This is a huge opportunity for stakeholders of the district cooling industry globally and in the UAE to showcase their products and services to an international audience from the Gulf region and beyond," stated Bin Shafar as he made a tour of the exhibition along with other officials.
"It is of great pride that the opening has attracted that much attention from participants and media. We have high expectations from this event and we are confident that this international gathering will bring the awaited solutions in term of business deals and best practises to all attendees," he noted.
The officials were introduced to a wide range of providers, manufacturers, suppliers and business partners in the district energy sector, during a tour among the stands.
The event was attended by senior representatives from Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, Johnson Controls, Carrier, Daikin, Mitsubishi, Siemens, Supreme Council of Energy, Trane, DC Pro Engineering, Bronze, Elips, Evapco and Climate Control Middle East.
In his opening remarks, Thornton said: "This edition of the International District Cooling conference will allow us to find about the next generation of district cooling systems and related technology."
"Our goal is to set up development and upscaling goals that contribute to a sustainable and efficient energy and water management," he noted.
Recognised industry leaders took part at the opening plenary panel discussion that focused on the best practises in the district cooling systems deployment, operations and business.
Bin Shafar (Empower) along with Yasser Al Jaidah (Qatar Cool), Afif Harhara (Tabreed), Anwar Hassan (Johnson Controls), Juan Ontiveros (University of Texas Austin) discussed the strategic role of district cooling in supporting the Paris Agreement (COP 21). Tim Griffin, the chair of Idea, addressed the session.
The following panel discussions gave insightful interventions and presentations on financing the district cooling solutions, the regulations in the GCC region, the environmental innovations, design considerations taking into account the regional factors, DC applications around the world and the DC system optimisation to create customer value, said the organisers.
The participants are being given several occasions to interact, mingle and network during themed roundtables, Idea recognition Luncheon, Idea business partner exhibitors receptions and the gala dinner hosted by Empower, they added.
The District Cooling 2016 conference will be held tomorrow (November 15) with a rich programme featuring discussions on district cooling projects from Saudi Arabia, UAE and Jordan, lined up for the session besides comparative study of various systems, thermal energy storage and best practices in plant room construction, and operation and maintenance in the GCC region.
The event concludes tomorrrow with technical tours to give participants a peek into Dubais achievement in the district cooling sector and check on the ground Empowers projects and plants. The tours are planned to the Business Bay Plant 2 and to the Command Control Centre.-TradeArabia News Service
A total of 42 construction companies and workers walked away with the Taqdeer Award, the worlds first points-based award programme for recognising excellence in labour welfare practices, at a special ceremony held in Dubai, UAE.
The ceremony was attended by decision-makers and leaders from local and international government bodies, labour organisations and private companies, said a statement from the organisers.
The award was launched under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and chairman of Dubai Executive Council.
Furthermore, the winners were honoured by Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, chairman of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation, it said.
Hussein Nasser Lootah, director general of Dubai Municipality and president of the judging committee, said: The committee has worked diligently to achieve the desired goals of this award. Within a short time of about 10 months only, the award has helped companies achieve a lot and created an everlasting impact and this is just the beginning.
Major General Obaid Muhair Bin Suroor, deputy director general of general directorate of residency and foreigners affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai and chairman of Taqdeer Award, said: It is a moment of great pleasure for us that the award has encouraged and led construction companies in Dubai to set exemplary standards in labour welfare.
The construction sector is vital to Dubais economy and employs over 500,000 workers, each of whom play an important role in Dubais journey to excellence. This award will go a long way in enhancing relationship between employers and employees, in line with the vision of our leadership to ensure happiness and welfare of all and realising Dubais vision of becoming one of the worlds best places to work and live, he said.
The award has received global appreciation and I would like to congratulate the winning companies for setting international benchmarks in labour welfare practices and the workers who have given their best and shown excellence at workplace, which sets an example for others to follow, he stated.
Bin Suroor said the committee expects at least 100 companies for the next edition of the Taqdeer Awards.
Our goal is to encourage companies across all sectors to set such benchmarks as Dubai, guided by its visionary leadership, is continuously working toward attaining excellence, he stated.
In its first phase, the award targeted construction sector and will eventually be extended to other sectors.- TradeArabia News Service
The overall number of projects in Iran which have drawn foreign direct investment is expected to increase by over six times by March, a senior official said in a report.
Once the contracts between Iranian and foreign firms are finalised, the Islamic Republic will attract $10 billion to $12 billion in foreign investments, Feriyal Mostofi, a member of Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mine and Agriculture, was quoted as saying in the Iran Daily News report.
Based on figures released by United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Iran drew foreign investments to the tune of $2.05 billion and $2.10 billion in 2015 and 2014, respectively.
Iran had been off limits to global investors as a result of sanctions that banned major investments in the country, specifically in its oil and gas industries that provide the lifeline of its national revenues.
The sanctions were removed after Iran and P5+1 (Russia, China, the US, Britain, France and Germany) finalised a lasting nuclear deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on July 14, 2015, and started implementing it on January 16, 2016.
Abu Dhabi-based Agthia Group, a leading food and beverage company, has signed a purchase agreement for 100 per cent of the shares in the water business of Delta Marketing Company, based in Saudi Arabia, producing Al Ain brand water.
The transaction is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2017, following regulatory approvals and other closing conditions, said a statement from the company.
The acquisition enables Agthia to enter the Saudi market for the first time with its Al Ain water brand, the leading bottled water brand in the UAE, reflecting the groups strategy to expand in the GCC and become a region-wide player, it said.
Deltas water business has been present in Saudi Arabia for three decades and is a growing and cash-generating operation. The transaction helps to fast-track Agthias objective of establishing a fully-fledged water production presence in kingdom, it added.
Eng Dhafer Ayed Al Ahbabi, chairman, Agthia, said: This agreement is an important step in carrying out our commitment to deliver sustainable growth for our shareholders through international expansion and acquisitions.
Saudi Arabia presents a very large market opportunity for us and the vehicle we have found to extend our presence there by producing Al Ain water locally allows us to take a critical step in our regional expansion, he added.
Iqbal Hamzah, CEO, Agthia Group, said: Acquiring Delta with their Al Ain water brand is a very important milestone for us. Regional expansion, especially in our water business, is a core part of our strategy.
This transaction provides a significant step change in our business. Al Ain will now be manufactured, distributed and sold in the three largest GCC economies the UAE, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia thus enhancing Al Ain image as a truly regional water brand, he added.
Hassan Alireza, managing director of Delta Marketing Company, added: I am pleased to announce that we have entered into a definitive agreement with Agthia to sell Delta Water Factory Company (DWFC), the water division of Delta Marketing Company.
We have full faith in Agthia building on our rich history of 30 years in the water market, and take our products and brands to the next stage. Over the coming weeks, we will work closely with Agthia to complete the transaction and ensure the successful transition of DWFC to its new owner, he said.
This transaction will offer genuine opportunities to the employees with broader development prospects as part of a GCC Group that firmly focuses on growth, and will benefit Saudi Arabia by bringing foreign investments, he concluded.
Agthia is pursuing a five-year strategy aimed at becoming one of the Middle Easts leading food and beverage companies. The cornerstone of this strategy is expanding its water business. Earlier this year, the company entered into a joint venture in Kuwait to establish a water bottling plant, which is expected to be completed in 2017, said a statement.
Last year Agthia also acquired Al Bayan Water Company a leading player in the 5 gallon bulk water segment in the UAE with a presence also in Oman. Alpin, a natural spring water brand of Agthia is produced at its factory in Turkey, it stated. TradeArabia News Service
Canada-based BlackBerry Limited, a global leader in secure mobile communications, has signed an agreement with Ford Motor Company for the expanded use of BlackBerrys QNX and security software.
As part of this agreement, BlackBerry will dedicate a team to work with Ford on expanding the use of BlackBerrys QNX Neutrino Operating System, Certicom security technology, QNX hypervisor and QNX audio processing software. The terms of the deal are confidential, said a statement from the company.
The deal signifies an acceleration in BlackBerrys pivot from hardware to software in support of the automakers goal of providing connected vehicles and mobility to its customers, it said.
The combination of BlackBerrys expertise in security and QNXs mission-critical operating systems and software for automotive applications, allows the company to offer the most secure, trusted and reliable platform that can power every aspect of the connected car, it added.
BlackBerrys QNX software powers more than 60 million vehicles, including the SYNC 3 Infotainment system in Fords current models.
John Chen, executive chairman and chief executive at BlackBerry, said: The future of the automobile is all about embedded intelligence. I believe our expertise in secure embedded software makes us the preferred technology provider to put the smart in the car.
Ford is an industry leader and the opportunity to contribute our world-class technology to their products is a privilege. Fords expanded application of our software and services illustrates the diverse and broad value we can bring to market, he added.
Raj Nair, executive VP (product development) and chief technical officer at Ford Motor Company, said: With the success of our SYNC 3 system globally, which is based on the BlackBerry QNX operating system, we understand the importance of the connected car experience to our customers.
Growing our expertise, experience and use of the BlackBerry QNX embedded software platforms will help ensure we deliver the high-quality, highly secure experience that our customers expect, he concluded. TradeArabia News Service
Asiacell, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and Ericsson, won the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Campaign of the Year honour at the recent CommsMEA Awards 2016 in Dubai, UAE.
To help reach children affected by the conflict, Ericsson has partnered with Iraqi telecommunications operator, Asiacell, and the IRC to launch a Connect to Learn project in schools in Domiz Refugee Camp, Iraq.
This partnership reflects candid commitment to society and achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by using ICT and connectivity as an enabler to ensure that teachers are provided high-quality teacher professional development and teaching resources to improve classroom instruction and education outcomes for Syrian refugee students.
The 11th edition of the annual CommsMEA Awards acknowledges operators and individuals who have taken a leadership role in the regions fast growing and rapidly changing telecoms sector. TradeArabia News Service
Hong Kong-based Comba Telecom Systems Holdings, a leading global wireless solutions provider, has appointed Dr Hazim Al Rawi as its new general manager for the Middle East and North Africa (Mena).
The appointment comes as the company embarks on expanding its business footprint in the Mena region in response to the growing network coverage and capacity needs.
In his new role, Al Rawi will manage and provide strategic direction to Combas regional business across all products, solutions and services, said a statement from the company.
In fact, the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region is headed for the strongest mobile data traffic growth of anywhere in the world at an estimated compound annual growth rate of 71 per cent in the lead up to 2020, it said.
The UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, in particular, have seen a steep increase in mobile data traffic in the last few years, with forecasts for continued heavy growth, it added.
Dr Al Rawi plans to leverage Combas classification as a Tier 1 antennas provider and its expertise in full-turn-key of In-Building Solutions (IBS) and Distributed Antennas Systems (DAS) to help existing and new customers enhance their mobile networks, said a statement.
Commenting on the appointment, Al Rawi said: "The Mena region continues to experience exponential growth in data communications and, in turn, the pressure on mobile network operators to facilitate coverage anywhere-anytime is mounting."
Meanwhile, the number of subscriptions, too, is seeing unprecedented growth multiple countries within the region have extremely high smartphone and mobile device penetration rates, he stated.
Our company will play its part in meeting this growing demand by leveraging its extensive 2G, 3G and 4G wireless products portfolio. Network operators within the Mena region have shown a particular interest in our new antenna systems to tackle bandwidth bottlenecks, he added.
Comba was recently ranked Tier 1 antenna supplier by industry analyst EJL Wireless Research, following a rise in deployments of its new generation of ultra-wideband compact 4G antennas, which provide a rapid fix for weak network coverage in high-traffic areas, it stated.-TradeArabia News Service
Bahrain's Tourism & Exhibition Authority (BTEA) has concluded its participation at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, which saw 50,000 delegates attend over the three-day show.
A total of 12 companies were represented at the BTEA show stand, including Gulf Air, destination management companies and a host of Bahrains leading hotels and resorts.
WTM London has been a great success, said Zayed Bin Rashid Alzayani, The Minister of Industry, Commerce & Tourism Its been great to see people excited about the new brand on display, to see them meeting with our partners, and immersing themselves in our story and culture.
Shaikh Khaled Bin Humood Al-Khalifa, CEO of the BTEA, said: All of our stand partners were delighted to be here, establishing trade links with the UK and leading global travel professionals. Many have secured deals and new agreements over the last few days and are leaving more excited than ever about the future.
During the three days, BTEA held 19 meetings with members of the travel trade and media, including meetings with key travel partners such as Expedia, Southall Travel, Thomas Cook, Lastminute.com and Emerald.
Agents visiting the stand were able to try their driving skills on the Bahrain International Circuit Formula 1 simulator, and fuel their wanderlust through the many inspiring images on display throughout the stand part of the new 'Ours.Yours.Bahrain' brand launched by BTEA at the show.
On the sidelines of the World Travel Market and in line with Gulf Airs longstanding mission and continuous efforts to promote Bahrain to an international audience as a tourist and business destination, Gulf Air and BTEA presented a grand prize to Carl Halvorsen who won an all-inclusive package to visit the kingdom and attend the 2017 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. The prize included Gulf Air return flights from London, race tickets and hotel accommodation for two persons.
- TradeArabia News Service
Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre has appointed Sam Jones as director of sales for a fresh and international perspective for the propertys meetings and incentives business.
The passionate and inspirational hospitality manager comes from a multi-segment global background in the hospitality business, the hotel said in a statement
I am thrilled to join the immensely talented team at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, a hotel that quipped to grow with Dubais rise as a leading global Mice destination. With 5,500 sq mt of conferencing facilities, the hotel is adept at accommodating the most demanding business meetings as comfortably as an intimate private gathering. Ive had the opportunity to develop sales teams and drive sales for our hotels in the UK and now look forward to applying my experience here in the beautiful city of Dubai, Jones said.
Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre is home to three ballrooms : the intimate Falcon Ballroom, the flexible Wasl Ballroom and the newest addition the Great Ballroom featuring indoor and outdoor event spaces, show kitchens, ample parking, the option of dividing into three spaces and a capacity of up to 1,500 people, In addition to the Great Ballroom, the hotel also features 25 function rooms, backed with world class technological support. Dedicated to offering the finest guest experience, Le Meridien Dubai introduced Le Royal Club, a new wing of 196 rooms at the elegant annex building. Modern rooms with a minimal aesthetic offering spacious 52 square meter spaces, the latest technology and luxury comforts. Le Royal Club guests are welcome to experience the rooftop pool, dedicated spa floor, valet service and exclusive Club Lounge access.
Jones earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in Hotel Management and a Diploma in Hospitality Management from the International College of Management in Sydney, Australia before joining W Hotel, Sydney. His career continued in the UK as a Reservations Coordinator in 2007 at Starwood Central London Hotels before climbing the ladder to account director, Middle East, Diplomatic, Luxury in 2012 - his final role at the property. In early 2014, he was appointed Director of Sales at Sheraton Heathrow Hotel, leading up to his appointment at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre. An energetic professional, Sam Jones has worked in international markets from the U.S. to Brazil for sales missions and hospitality industry events. He is a proven sales leader with a record of consistently exceeding sales goals.
The newly appointed Director of Sales was awarded the EAME Best Practice Award in 2013 for Suite Sales Strategy W London/Park Tower and the Top 10 TeamHOT performer of EAME in 2011, among other accolades. His UK experience will be an extraordinary asset for Le Meridien Dubais MICE segment, this being one of their key source markets. Further, Jones ability to continually surpass sales goals will serve as a value contribution for growing business at the hotel.
Sam comes with a proven track record in hospitality sales in the dynamic UK hospitality landscape and it gives me great pleasure to welcome him to head our growing sales team at Le Meridien Dubai. Says Shaun Parsons, complex general manager of Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre. - TradeArabia News Service
The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the UAE hosted Korea Festival 2016 on Corniche Beach in Abu Dhabi.
The Festival, held in association with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation - Abu Dhabi, featured a range of engaging Korean cultural activities and culinary specialties, catering to the growing interests of the UAE residents, mainly young generation, in Korea and the countrys cultural values.
The key attraction of the festival was the display of globally popular Korean herb Red Ginseng by the aT Center (Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation). Considered the most effective form of ginseng available, the Korean Red Ginseng has wide-ranging health-promoting effects on the human body.
Showing the Korean culture more vibrantly, the festival this year began at the National Theatre on October 28; continued at the Abu Dhabi Corniche Beach the next weekend (November 3 to 4); and concluded in Al Ain the last weekend.
Speaking on the occasion, Park Kang-ho, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea in the UAE, said: We are excited to organise the Korea Festival 2016 in such a massive scale this year. The objective of the Festival is to treat the residents of the UAE with a glimpse of Korean culture. We are grateful to the UAE Government for supporting our efforts to bring Korean products and cultural elements closer to the UAE.
The Korean Embassy in the UAE has been instrumental in educating people in the UAE about various offerings from Korea. With the Korea Festival 2016, we initiate some strong steps to educate the UAE residents about the unique Korean cultural elements and amazing Korean culinary specialties. The number of Emirati citizens visiting Korea for tour and medical treatments are increasing, he added.
Myung-Gu Seo, director general of Korea Agro-Trade Center, Abu Dhabi, said: We are happy to be part of an event that brings Korean products to the residents of the UAE. The interest has been overwhelming from all communities and we are happy to bring the products here. Besides the huge Korean population in the UAE, we have seen an increased interest from other nationalities. Being a melting pot of different cultures from around the world, the UAE is an ideal market for products from our country.
This year, we are keen on bringing attention of the visitors to the popular Korean herb Red Ginseng. Our purpose is to educate the participants on the benefits of using Korean Red Ginseng. At the festival, we focus on the magic root Red Ginseng, which is known to be the most potent of all Ginsengs and its health benefits are immeasurable. Experts from the aT Center stall educated visitors on the benefits of using the herb. Every Korean citizen is a strong advocate of the Red Ginseng as they understand the goodness and benefits of the root brings to their life, he added.
Visitors at the festival were provided with opportunity to taste Korean Red Ginseng drinks and explore more about it. The festival also set up booths for people to taste Korean food, further featuring renowned Chef Jaehak Lee from Intercontinental Abu Dhabi who conducted a Master Cooking Class showing how to prepare the perfect Kimchi.
A key attraction of the festival was K-Dance featuring different Korean dance forms including a performance by contemporary Korean dance group Goblin Party, and The Lion Dance, traditional Korean dance which is a popular style where one or more dancers put on a giant costume and perform.
Korean B-Boy band performed the marionette, interpretation of an international dance form. SE:UM, a world music group and one of Koreas most innovative ensembles showcased a one-of-a-kind music performance drawing instrumental, vocal and improvisation techniques from both Korean and Western jazz traditions.
Apart from the music and dance programmes, Korea Festival also screened Korean movies for the public, and animation films for kids; in addition to K-Drama, a giant screen that kept playing Korean TV dramas back to back; and VR Games to engage people, and booths with traditional Korean games like Tuho and Yut Nori for kids to discover and play. - TradeArabia News Service
The first year Ultra Petroleum operated in Sublette County, it paid $1.3 million in taxes on some $200 million worth of property. The gas company was one of many firms to contribute millions in taxes to the state in 2014.
But the following year, when the company reported the value of its property in the Jonah Field to the local officials, it claimed the value was $28 million.
The change is not unusual in Wyoming. Every year the overall worth of a companys facilities and equipment are part of the property and real estate taxes that fuel local economies. But values are reassessed every year, and sometimes changes result in significant losses in tax dollars, said the Sublette County assessor, L. Jeness Saxton.
Over the last few years, revenues from oil, gas and coal have plummeted in Wyoming due to low prices in those commodities. The result has been a decrease in local and county budgets. And though production and prices are beginning to level out, counties are aware that adjustments can still roll in, further reducing their tax income.
Disparities in property value, like the case of Ultra Petroleum in Sublette County, can deliver a significant hit to expected revenue.
In Campbell County, two large coal companies have emerged from bankruptcy, and a third is set to emerge early next year. It is yet to be seen how much of a change in value could result from the post-bankruptcy mines.
It could happen. I know some of the coal mines that came out of bankruptcy were doing some reappraisal, said Troy Clements, the county assessor. We havent seen any figures, dont know which direction they are heading yet.
Campbell County uses Pickett and Co., a private firm that does industrial appraisal, to value its coal mines each year. The firm serves a number of Wyoming counties. But though Campbell always has a third-party appraiser involved, companies can still dispute the countys claims, Clements said.
The changes in value could be significant, though Campbell County receives most of its tax dollars from coal production, he added.
Since last year, total valuation of property in the county from mobile homes to power plants has dropped $1 billion.
Of the three companies affected by Chapter 11 in Campbell County, none confirmed or denied that a reappraisal could result in lower taxes.
Contura is a newly formed company that bought the Wyoming assets of Alpha Natural Resources. The company declined to comment on for this story. Arch Coal, which owns the Black Thunder mine near Gillette, did not respond to a request for information.
Peabody Energy, which operates the North Rochelle mine near Gillette, should emerge from bankruptcy in January. Its spokesman said Peabody relies on the county and Pickett and Co. to determine its mines values.
There are a number of reasons why a companys value can be drawn down year to year, particularly after large sales or financial insolvency.
In the case of Ultra Petroleum, Sublette County hired Picket and Co. to resolve the discrepancy between the companys two-year estimates. Picket and Co. determined the value was $63 million, resulting in a loss of $875,000 in taxes from the previous year on the same equipment.
Ultra received a reduction from the previous years $200 million estimate because it wasnt using some facilities to their full potential, Saxton said.
I have some qualms about that, but it is an independent third party who have done [appraisals] on a regular basis, she said. We were able to keep enough revenue by hiring an outside contractor. It was a cost to the county to do that, but it kept a lot of revenue coming in and created an unbiased situation.
Something similar happened in Natrona County in 2015.
After the Salt Creek Oil field was sold by Anadarko Petroleum to FDL Energy, the new company contested its value of $578 million. An appraisal by Pickett brought down that sum to $320 million. The difference in taxes was $2 million, according to the Natrona County assessor, Connie Smith.
Smith said she could not release the reasons for the companys contested value.
Counties are aware these fluctuations can happen, Clements said, but when and how much they will differ is too unpredictable for planning.
Have an event, trend or general energy happening youd like to see in the Energy Journal newsletter? Send it to Star-Tribune energy reporter Heather Richards at heather.richards@trib.com. Sign up for the newsletter at www.trib.com/energyjournal.
This week in numbers
Friday's oil prices: West Texas Intermediate (WTI) $43.41, Brent (ICE) $44.75
Natural gas weekly price averages: Henry Hub $2.23, Wyoming Pool $1.94, Opal $1.99
Market analysts and Trump
The presidential election dominated the stories on energy this week, and with good reason. President-elect Donald Trump has promised to change the nation's approach to the energy sector, from unleashing oil and gas production on public lands to bringing back coal jobs.
The day after Trump's win, analysts weighed in on what it could mean. The most pressing issue, or the most obvious issue, was Trump's promise to deregulate industry.
Uncertainty and the president-elect
The promises made on the campaign trail don't always come to fruition. In the case of Trump, a lack of substantive policy makes it difficult to predict exactly how his White House will differ from the current one in regard to energy policy.
Still, many are hopeful that Trump's support for oil, gas and coal will be a good thing for industry. Others have serious doubts concerning the next president's ability to follow through on his plans.
Final moves
It's not only the president-elect being considered in energy policy this week. The Obama administration released a final rule Thursday on a new leasing program for wind and solar.
Pavillion
The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality reaffirmed its position that Pavillion's drinking water has not been affected by fracking in the area.
The state released its final report on the issue Thursday. Local residents and environmentalists have criticized the state's investigation. Federal regulators have also contested the state's conclusions.
Casper was rated the most giving city in the United States by the vacation website Travelocity last week.
More than just Stetson hats and the Gateway to the Tetons ... Casper is the most charitable city in the nation, the company wrote.
While Travelocity cited Caspers annual fundraiser for the Wyoming Special Olympics, the companys methodology for determining the most charitable cities was based entirely on social media.
The travel website ranked cities by searching Twitter hashtags #charity, #donate and #volunteer and determining which locations had the highest per capita usage of those terms.
The list of 25 cities accompanied a pitch for visiting the towns on readers next vacation: When planning your next vacation, consider these like-minded charitable cities and maybe even lend a helping hand when youre in town.
In the write-up about Casper, Downtown Development Authority CEO Kevin Hawley said the city had a long history of charitable giving.
We take a great deal of pride in our community and our way of life in Casper and in Wyoming, Hawley said. The generosity of the Casper community never ceases to amaze and makes me extremely proud to call Casper home.
Hawleys DDA has been the recipient of millions of dollars in charitable giving toward its downtown plaza project. The plaza broke ground in late October after raising the $1.6 million needed to complete the first phase of the project.
The agency announced two substantial gifts toward the second phase of the project in October. Hilltop National Bank contributed $500,000 toward the splash pad that will be built on the plaza, and the Cercy family donated $1 million to the project.
Dr. Shelley Springer is the neonatologist/pediatrician and owner of Casper Childrens Center, located in the Casper Clinic.
She has a law degree in addition to a medical degree and a master of science in biometry (the application of statistical analysis to biological data) and epidemiology (the study of disease in populations). She is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and has been in Casper for just over two years.
She came to Wyoming from Minnesota and found a practice that was perfect and a state in desperate need of a neonatologist.
This is the last bastion of no child health care, and I thought I could really make a difference, she said.
Thursday is World Prematurity Day, designed to focus attention on the huge emotional, social, economic and cultural problem of prematurity, with the hope of allocating more resources to reduce it.
Please tell us about premature births in Wyoming. As you know, Wyoming is the only state in the union that does not have 21st century childrens health care, no childrens hospital, no specialized providers to take care of either high-risk mothers or premature babies. All of our preemies (less than 37 weeks completed) have to be transported out of state even if mildly premature. Most family practitioners are operating out in rural settings without any support at all, and there is a contingent of families who prefer to deliver at home those women deliver in really primitive circumstances. All of those converge to contribute to what is an unacceptable high rate of infant mortality.
The March of Dimes puts out a report card that gives a snapshot. As a whole, the United States is embarrassingly bad when it comes to infant mortality. Were in the 20s in terms of worldwide, which is horrible. In Wyoming, our premature birth card just came out. It is 9.8 percent, or almost 10 percent, of our births in the state of Wyoming in the last year were premature. Thats a little bit better than last year it was almost 11 percent, as a state. That resulted in our grade going from D to C. There was improvement, primarily in Albany County. Some of our counties have incredible disparity. Natrona for 2015 is 11.5 percent, up from previous years, which is a grade of F.
A 37-week baby is not a term baby. There is a lot of pressure placed by payers to decrease the rate of elective premature births, which are elective C-sections. Technically, a full-term pregnancy is 40 weeks. Payers have gotten together and are restricting payment for electives less than 39 weeks. Absolutely, I am in favor of that, and Im also in favor of natural labor rather than induction. The thought now is the day youre 39 and 0 days is the day were scheduling your induction, because the mother is miserable or the doctor wants to be out of town, and thats not good either. We know induced labors tend to have more complications because its not natural.
What can be done to improve the outcomes? There are recognized interventions that can start with prenatal providers things like pregnancy spacing, having more than 18 months between pregnancies decreases risk; do not smoke during your pregnancy; get good prenatal care; medical intervention. There is medication that can be given to women who are at risk for pre-term birth. Evidence-based medicine comes in that has been shown to decrease risk. If you are in impending labor, there are interventions that can stop labor or improve outcomes, but those need to be provided by high-risk maternal fetal specialists or neonatal specialist. If women are in pre-term labor in Wyoming, they tend to go to the E.R. and they are given a shot of morphine and are sent home. Twenty-eight-week babies have outcomes almost as good as late- or full-term babies, and success rates at 23 or 24 weeks are over 50 percent, but they have to have the right care.
What is happening in Casper on World Prematurity Day? November is World Prematurity Month and the color is purple, and Thursday is World Prematurity Day. At the Casper Childrens Center in the Casper Clinic (930 E. Third St., Ste. 205), were starting the day with a news event and there will be decorations and refreshments. Later in the afternoon at 3:30 or 4 p.m., at Mountain View Regional Hospital, there will be a hot air balloon and kids can get up close and personal with the balloon, all kinds of activities in the lobby area, music by Vibes, instruments for kids to play, face painting, a balloon artist making balloon animals, a diaper the preemie contest, photo booths, cards to make and send to the NICU in Denver, as well as hats to make to send there all with the objective of bringing peoples awareness to the fact that premature births in Wyoming are a big problem and with the right care, we can improve the health and well being of both moms and babies.
Final thoughts? People dont know what they dont know in Wyoming. They dont know how medical care in the rest of the country has progressed. Also, the Wyoming can-do philosophy weve been doing just fine, we dont need any help from city folks tends to come into play. Wyoming is finally talking about telemedicine, and we jumped on that bandwagon right away. Those doctors around the state can easily take care of a 34- or 35-weeker if they can talk with somebody and know what to do.
Follow community news editor Sally Ann Shurmur on Twitter @WYOSAS
Wyoming lawmakers are reviewing whether to spend $4.5 million on water rights to a lake near Sheridan.
The Wyoming Water Development Commission and the Select Water Committee discussed buying water rights to 62,000 acre-feet in Lake DeSmet at a recent meeting in Casper.
The complex proposal involves buying water and infrastructure from Sasol, a South African synfuels developer.
Commission director Harry LaBonde told the committee and lawmakers that the company recently approached him about purchasing the water rights along with the Clear Creek diversion, Lake Healy Reservoir, an industrial pump station, and over six miles of 66-inch water transmission line to Lake DeSmet.
All of those Sasol assets went on the market for sale, along with a 10,000-acre ranch that overlies some rather shallow and extensive coal deposits, LaBonde added. That was the energy source for the coal to fuels, or the industrial program, that was planned for the last really 60-plus years.
The entire package was being offered at around $18 million, but LaBonde said the deal splits the water infrastructure from the ranching operations.
LaBonde recommended setting aside the funds and exploring the deal, saying while there were no current prospects for selling the water, the state has a history of securing water rights for the future.
The state of Wyoming has invested in water assets over the years, the Palisades Reservoir, Buffalo Bill Reservoir, Pathfinder, Glendo are all part of that package, along with High Savory, LaBonde said. I think DeSmet, specifically that 62,000 acre-feet of space, really fits into that same category.
He further noted the Lake DeSmet water could be used to resolve recent court rulings where Montana can place calls on the Tongue River, which they have done for the last two years.
If the infrastructure was built to pump water from DeSmet into the Tongue River drainage, then that water could be used as replacement water so that Wyoming irrigators could continue to irrigate in the event of a call from Montana, LaBonde said.
While most everyone agreed that the water price was a bargain, some on the committee challenged the proposal.
Calling it an albatross, Sen. Ogden Driskill, R-Devils Tower, commented that no one has ever found a way to market the Lake DeSmet water, and the state may wind up owning it anyway.
I see theres a pretty good chance Johnson Countys going to probably want to turn this back, their part of the reservoir, Driscoll said. Id like to know how much money theyve got invested, because it might be $4.5 million is the tip of the iceberg if we wind up with a reservoir that we have to maintain and keep up, and dont have sales to pay for the water.
Sen. Gerald Geis, R-Worland, said the state should acquire all of Lake DeSmet.
We should have bought that instead of the county trying to handle that, because its too big a project, Geis said. I tried to get (the state) to do it with the Water Development Account way back when it first came up.
The Joint Committee agreed to put the funding recommendation on hold, moving forward with a two-track approach.
In December, LaBonde will bring the cost of a Level II feasibility study to the water commission. At the same time, a separate legislative draft bill will be developed that will allow for negotiations for water assets to proceed.
Arizona Opera is mounting Dvoraks Rusalka this weekend a first for the company and the first time it has done an opera in Czechoslovakian.
Here are a few things you need to know about the production before you see it on Saturday, Nov. 19, or Sunday, Nov. 20, at the Tucson Music Hall:
Its a fairytale: Rusalka takes its cue from Hans Christian Andersens 19th century fairytale The Little Mermaid, who gives up her identity as a sea creature to become human.
What weve decided to do is look at the piece through the lens of Rusalka herself and to distill the piece down to its most essential relationships and most essential storytelling, explained Joshua Borths, Arizona Operas resident stage director.
Silence and silhouettes: The stage is set with the human world hidden in silhouette and the sea world clearly visible. The human world is silent until Rusalka crosses the threshold connecting the two worlds, and then the human world comes out of the shadows.
These giant doors open to let the human world in, which highlights what the piece is about, what happens when we make irrevocable decisions and have to bear the consequences, either living happily ever after or living with the tragedy, said Borths.
Girl gets boy and then ... : Rusalka is a water spirit who falls for an earthly prince. She convinces the witch Jezibaba to turn her into a human so she can be with her prince. But the transformation has consequences: As a human, she cant speak, and if the prince rejects her, shes damned, the witch warns her.
Turns out Jezibaba isnt too fond of humans.
There is obviously a hidden storyline there of her hatred for humans, said mezzo-soprano Daveda Karanas, who sings the role of the witch Jezibaba. I just love how multifaceted she is. Any day I can play a witch is my favorite day. I love it.
Rusalka takes the chance, crosses over and finds her prince. And, pretty much as Jezibaba warns, the prince turns a blind eye on her on their wedding day, turning his attention to a princess at the party.
Here comes the girl loses boy part: Prince makes a move on princess, Rusalka returns to the sea, then the princess ditches the prince. And here it gets fairytale quirky: Rusalka can have her cake and eat it, too, if she kills the prince. Of course she cant, so the prince, feeling pretty lonely and lousy, comes begging for forgiveness and one last kiss, knowing that kiss will mean his death.
Dontcha love fairytales?
Singing in Czech: For the first time in its 45 years, the Arizona Opera will sing in Czech. What will it sound like? Probably Russian, said Karanas.
Its fun. Ive sung in many languages, so I would definitely compare it to Russian, said Karanas, a Louisiana native and Arizona State University graduate. It kind of feels like Russian with Italian vowels.
This is Karanas first Rusalka, although she did a childrens version of it while she was in graduate school. The company took that version a little more Disney than not, Karanas said to schools around the state in conjunction with the performance, which played in Phoenix Nov. 11-13.
Borths, the companys education outreach and community engagement director, estimated 60,000 kids statewide experienced the performance.
Dream come true: Borths has never directed Rusalka, but he said it is one of his favorite operas.
JANESVILLE, Wis. (AP) Brittany Bailey and Emily Gage had no idea how hard it would be to complete an unfinished film about haunted places by their late father.
"We thought it would be a nice tribute to him," Brittany told The Janesville Gazette (http://bit.ly/2epoFho ).
In the process of finishing "Strange Incorporated," they honored their dad, John Gage, who died in a car accident in 2008.
But the endeavor stoked raw emotions.
"We knew him well enough to get inside his mindset through the entire thing," Emily explained. "But seeing him and hearing him in the video eight years after his death was hard."
Both women work at Janesville's Videogenics, a video-production business started by their father and grandfather, Howard Gage, in 1986.
A premier showing of "Strange Incorporated" took place earlier this month in partnership with the Rock County Historical Society, and another screening may take place early next year.
Material in the film is just as fascinating as the story of how it was made.
In 2001, John Gage and a crew of friends made a video about Bachelor's Grove Cemetery in Illinois.
The small, abandoned graveyard is known as one of the most haunted cemeteries in the United States. Apparitions, floating balls of light and unexplained sights and sounds have been reported there.
John Gage unsuccessfully tried to use the film to sell the idea of a paranormal TV series, then tucked away the idea.
After his death, he left behind hours of additional video shot at Manteno State Hospital in Kankakee County, Illinois, which he was going to turn into a second TV episode.
This is where Brittany and Emily stepped in.
The women, both in their 20s, called upon their father's friends who were involved in the original project and asked them to talk about their experiences at Manteno.
"We were able to sit down with them and ask questions," Brittany said. "We had no clue where to start with the film."
Brittany edited the film, while Emily wrote the compelling script about the state hospital, which like Bachelor's Grove has a reputation of being haunted.
"We had 20 tapes of footage sitting there," Brittany said. "I learned how to take raw footage and make it look good."
After reviewing the video, they did not find evidence of the paranormal.
But they realized the horrors of life at Manteno were far more frightening than spirits of the dead.
The massive mental health complex conducted experimental testing on patients without consent.
Doctors at the facility also performed regular lobotomies and shock therapy.
In addition, allegations of sexual abuse were common at the complex, which closed in 1985.
Brittany and Emily tell the story of a young woman taken to the hospital by her parents after an argument.
"Upon entry, doctors found the woman named Gennie friendly with no signs of mental illness," Emily said. "Ten years later after extensive neurosurgery, she couldn't do anything for herself. She eventually went to a nursing home because she was completely incompetent."
Spray-painted graffiti on tubs and walls of the hospital tell of Gennie's horrible fate.
Brittany calls "Strange Incorporated" the biggest production of her young career.
She and Emily are pleased with the outcome.
"I now understand why my father spent so much time at work," Emily said. "We have lived and breathed this film. We are not only trying to please the viewers, but also our dad."
Both believe John Gage also would be happy with the film.
"He would love it," Emily said. "He always wanted us to be as creative as he was. After 15 years, this film can see the light of day."
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Information from: The Janesville Gazette, http://www.gazetteextra.com
An AP Member Exchange shared by the Janesville Gazette.
DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. Veterans Day is commemorated to honor those who have served in the United States Armed Services. Despite retiring from the Air Force 32 years ago as a medical technician, and serving an additional 16 years of civil service, retired Chief Master Sgt. Garland Bill Love continues to devote his time to his country.
Love, from West Monroe, Louisiana, joined the Air Force after his half-brother died during World War II. His decision to suit up was a no-brainer.
I joined when I was a little tyke, at the age of 17, Love said. There are people that say Theyll never get me in uniform or I dont want anything to do with that, but it just came natural to me. I had no desire to do anything else. I was born to wear the uniform.
The retired chiefs active duty career took him on a worldwide journey. Almost 60 years ago, Love met a female Airman, Maria, while stationed at Ramey AFB, Puerto Rico. Shortly after, Maria was sent to Barksdale AFB, while Love was on a short separation from the AF.
Probably the best moment was when I married that little girl over there, Love said as he pointed to a photo of him and his wife. It was a very small ceremony because she had just got to Barksdale and Louisiana was my home state so my sister was there, and three witnesses who were all in the military at the time too. I dont remember being nervous but theres a lot of things that cross your mind at that point in time.
Approaching his 30th year in the AF, Love applied for a two-year extension during his last duty assignment at Bolling AFB, Washington D.C., working alongside the chief of the Air Force Nurse Corps.
I had the opportunity to have my input for the enlisted medical corps, Love said. I had three years there. It was an opportunity to hopefully do something for our enlisted medics and it turned out well.
After retiring from his active duty service, Love began his second career in civil services eventually leading him to more locations far from home.
I had more time overseas in civil service than I had in uniform, Love said. My first duty station assignment was at Reese AFB in Lubbock, Texas, and from there is where I started my almost 10 years of being overseas. I had five years at Kadena AB in Okinawa, Japan, two years in (South) Korea and then two years in Yokota AB in Japan.
As his last overseas tour in Japan came to a close, Love began to research where he and his wife would go next.
We decided to buy a car and started south, Love said. We were back visiting one of my sons in Utah and where the car stopped was in Tucson.
Shortly after his spontaneous stop to Tucson, Ariz., the restless veteran began his ongoing assistance for the U.S. Armed Forces in the Retiree Activities Office at Davis-Monthan AFB.
It keeps me close to the troops, Love said. Some people retire and want to get as far away as they can from the uniform or the military. I never felt that way.
Love is on his 13th year of service to D-Ms RAO, where he is the deputy officer. He and his wife, Maria, still reside in Tucson and have two sons who have also served in the USAF.
Its been just over a year since Tucson voters resoundingly shot down the use of red-light cameras for traffic enforcement.
The city manager ordered the cameras shut down for citations the day after the election.
Those cameras, the shells of which remain at the eight major intersections, have been the source of many emails and queries to the Road Runner. So, finally, your humble columnist dove into the most basic question about them.
Did they work? In short, when it comes to curbing dangerous intersection driving, data provided by the Tucson Police Department make a strong case they did. However, the cameras impact on collisions especially serious wrecks is more difficult to discern, at least according to new data obtained by the Road Runner.
The Road Runner requested red-light camera intersection collision data for two nearly year-long periods before and after the vote. Additionally, a TPD officer provided a spreadsheet with speeding and red-light running violation data not actual police citations for the two months after the ban and the same period the year before.
(The cameras did continue collecting data after the Nov. 3, 2015, vote, but not for enforcement.)
According to the two-month violation data, overall incidents of red-light running and speeding through the intersections between Nov. 4, 2015, and Jan. 4, 2016, were up 109 percent and 126 percent, respectively, from the same range a year prior. Data recently compiled by the Traffic Safety Coalition, a pro-red-light camera group funded in part by the industry, shows similar patterns in other Arizona communities where voters ended their use.
During the latter two-month period, that meant 25,291 motorists proceeding into the eight intersections after a light turned red and 5,045 people speeding through them at a minimum of 11 mph over the speed limit. Responding to those findings, John Kromko, chairman of the successful Tucson campaign to end the use of red-light cameras, said he suspects TPDs violation data was manipulated, possibly by shifting definitions of where the intersection begins.
Some jumps at specific intersections and directions of travel were eye-popping. For example, red-light running on westbound Speedway at North Kolb Road skyrocketed 818 percent to 1,497, and speeding shot up 730 percent on southbound Craycroft Road at East Broadway.
However, the collision data suggest a trend that might be counterintuitive to some: Collisions at the intersections didnt increase after the cameras went dark, and may have actually declined.
Comparing collisions between October and December 2015 (which includes about a month before the cameras were shut off) to the same period a year before, TPD found that collisions at all intersections either stayed the same or decreased with the exception of two intersections, where they rose modestly.
The longer-range data requested from TPD suggest something similar.
That set shows collisions at or near the eight intersections between November 2015 and August 2016 fell 8 percent to 307 from 334 the year prior. Only one intersection, West River Road and North Oracle Road, saw an increase, a modest jump of one to 35. Two intersections had exactly the same number of collisions, and the steepest decline was seen at Speedway and Kolb, where the number of incidents fell 25 percent to 38.
There were no fatal wrecks at any of the intersections in either period, according to TPD.
TPD Assistant Chief Ramon Batista described the mixed bag of data, which shows seemingly incompatible increases in dangerous driving behaviors and flat or declining collisions, as the wildest anomaly.
However, thanks to TPDs Lt. Jamie Brady graciously taking time out of her Veterans Day holiday, the Road Runner received even more fine-grained collision data.
That data confirm the overall reduction in collisions, but add a few interesting twists, including that more serious reportable crashes increased slightly and less-serious property damage only collisions declined by nearly 30 percent.
David Goldenberg, a TSC spokesman, said that without a more granular look at crashes in the eight intersections stemming from red-light running and speeding, a complete and full understanding of what is happening is not possible.
Anything less is arguably flawed data. It does not tell a complete or accurate story, he added.
But Kromko was not at all surprised by the result, arguing that in some ways the cameras made intersections more dangerous, by encouraging sudden braking, among other things.
Also, annual collision data for the eight intersections proper not including areas approaching the intersection do show a steady decline from 188 in fiscal year 2006 to 57 in FY 2015, which includes the roughly four-year period during which all of the red-light cameras were deployed, according to a previous TPD analysis. Kromko is also suspicious of these numbers. He provided the Road Runner with an independently produced report based on Arizona Department of Transportation collision data that argues the decline may have just mirrored a broader decline in collisions in the area.
Meanwhile, data from other communities that have shut off red-light cameras show a 16 percent rise in fatal red-light running crashes, according to another report from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Kromko again countered that fatal crashes were fairly rare at the eight Tucson intersections to begin with, and have remained so.
So, what to make of this mess of conflicting numbers?
Batista argued that even if overall collisions are declining, the speeding and red-light violation data suggest that the collisions that do occur might be more serious, an argument supported by the follow-up data Brady provided.
Kromkos view is that red-light cameras were an expensive scam for drivers when they were operating and at the very least did nothing to improve intersection safety.
For his part, Goldenberg said that if collisions are in fact declining in Tucson, that would constitute an exception to what has been seen in a number of other communities that have banned the cameras.
The data is indisputable, he said. Red-light cameras reduce red-light running, reduce crashes, and reduce the injuries and deaths that occur because of red-light running and speeding.
But what do you think? Check out the poll available in the online version of this story and weigh in.
PHOENIX If incoming state House Speaker J.D. Mesnard had his way, it likely would be Hillary Clinton preparing a transition today, not Donald Trump.
Its not that the Chandler Republican likes Clinton more than his own partys nominee, for whom he voted, its that Mesnard thinks that whoever wins the popular vote should be the president. And this year its Clinton.
This is more than just Mesnard ruminating. In fact, he pushed a measure through the House earlier this year with bipartisan support that would have Arizona join with other states to make it so. It was only because Senate President Andy Biggs now headed to Congress would not give it a hearing that the measure did not advance more.
Whether he might have better luck this year with fellow Chandler Republican Steve Yarbrough now in charge of the Senate remains an open question.
I know president-elect Yarbrough to be a thoughtful man, Mesnard said this weekend.
Mesnard stressed he is not proposing to scrap the Electoral College, where each state gets votes equivalent to the members of the House and Senate, with the winner needing at least half of the 538 votes. That would require a constitutional amendment.
Instead, Mesnard wants Arizona to enter into deals with other states. Once there are states on board with at least 270 electoral votes, each would legally require its electors to cast their votes for whomever wins the national popular votes, regardless of who won the tally in that state.
Put simply, had the system been in place this year, it would not matter that more Arizonans supported Trump than Clinton. Its electors would have had to vote for Clinton.
The idea is not as far-fetched as it sounds: National Popular Vote, the organization pushing the plan, reports lawmakers in 11 states with 165 electoral votes have already passed the measure.
Mesnards complaint with the current system is it can make Arizona irrelevant. Arizona did get a fair share of attention from both candidates this year as it appeared at one time that the state might actually be in play. But this year has proven the exception to what Mesnard has seen before.
What happens is we get ignored, Mesnard said in pushing the legislation earlier this year, with Arizona a flyover state as presidential hopefuls cater to voters in places like Ohio and Florida.
This year, for example, while Arizona did get 10 visits from presidential and vice presidential contenders, National Popular Vote says Ohio got 48, Pennsylvania got 54, North Carolina got 55 and Florida got 71.
Mesnard said its irrelevant that the change would sometimes benefit Democrats. He said future elections could just as easily go the other way. The point is whats good for Arizona.
That also was the assessment of political consultant Patrick Rosenstiel who testified earlier this year for Mesnards bill. He said in 2012, presidential candidates from both parties spent more than $175 million in Florida; in-state spending in Arizona was a paltry $40,350.
And Rosentiel said once a president is elected, the issues in those battleground states are likely to get more attention than those elsewhere. Mesnard said its not necessarily a foregone conclusion that Clinton would be headed to the White House had the popular-vote system been in place.
How many Republicans stayed home in California? he asked, knowing that the largely blue state was going to give its 55 electoral votes to Clinton. Perhaps if they had turned out, Trump might have won the popular vote.
The move has its detractors. Its a direct attack on our republic and will lead us down the path to what is known as direct democracy, that is, direct government ruled by the majority, often referred to as rob rule, Arizona Republican Robert Hathorne testified when Mesnards bill came up for debate earlier this year.
Former state Rep. Barbara Blewster urged lawmakers to preserve the electoral system so that residents of states voted for electors, people who were more learned on the issues of the day. Then those electors would go to Washington and decide who would make the best president.
It might be time to put a hands-free headset for your cellphone on your Christmas list.
The city of Tucson is partnering with Pima County, Oro Valley and other jurisdictions to move forward with a measure to make it a driving infraction to physically use a cellphone without a hands-free accessory.
The city and county now have texting-while-driving bans although they differ on whether they are primary or secondary offenses.
Government leaders said the new measure would require drivers to use the hands-free phone devices while driving, instead of having the phone in their hands.
The measure would go further than what is currently on the books, including the citys ban on texting while driving or the states distracted-driving law.
While still in the draft phase, the law could allow law enforcement officers to pull someone over just for using a cellphone while driving in other words, making it a primary offense.
Currently, the citys law governing texting while driving is a secondary offense, meaning an officer needs to observe the driver committing another violation for example, speeding in order to pull them over and cite them for texting. The countys ban is a primary offense, meaning a deputy can pull a driver over specifically for texting.
City Attorney Mike Rankin said the measure is unlikely to run afoul of the state legislators, as there is no statewide law similar to what the city and other municipalities are proposing.
The city of Tucson is under investigation by the Arizona attorney general, accused of violating a 2013 Arizona law that requires the sales of confiscated guns obtained by law enforcement agencies.
Tucson Councilman Paul Cunningham described meeting a local resident two months ago who had spent 18 months recovering after being in an accident on his bike nearly crippled by a driver who was using a cellphone while driving.
He admitted he was guilty of using a cellphone while driving, but now uses a hands-free device while driving.
I am behind this because it is a right thing to do, Cunningham said.
Councilman Steve Kozachik brought the issue forward, calling it the next step after passing a ban on texting while driving, in connection with lowering the speed limit for cars along bicycle lanes.
He said the city needed to act, as the state was unwilling to take up the issue. I wish the state were taking the lead on this, he said.
The issue, he said, is safety, and he was dismissive of any argument attempting to sideline the proposal.
However, not all members of the Tucson City Council are on board .
Councilman Richard Fimbres voted against having city staffers write up a proposal and work with other jurisdictions, asking a number of technical questions during a council discussion last week.
The goal is to have each local jurisdiction to pass the cellphone ban in the coming months and then have a period where police officers issue warnings to drivers before writing tickets.
The smoke you see rising from the Santa Catalina Mountains Monday, Nov. 14, means U.S. Forest Service crews have determined that conditions are right to safely burn brush, downed timber and small trees on Mount Bigelow.
Parts of Mount Bigelow, where an array of communications towers are visible from most parts of Tucson, have been deliberately lit ablaze before, as protective measures against the Aspen and Bullock fires in 2002 and 2003.
Mondays fire was planned, in part, to help restore what existed before those fires, removing the brushy plants and allowing ponderosa pine to re-establish, said Heidi Schewel, spokeswoman for the Coronado National Forest.
The 200-acre site is mostly surrounded by the paved Mount Lemmon Highway and dirt roads that lead to popular camping spots and the communication towers atop Mount Bigelow, which, at 8,540 feet, is the second-tallest peak in the Catalinas.
On the west side where there are no roads, fire crews will scratch out a handline down to bare soil and remove ladder fuels that could carry fire into the branches of larger trees, said Schewel.
Crews will burn out from those lines to establish a perimeter and allow the fire to burn hotter on the interior of the site.
A minimum of three fire engines and two 20-person crews will be available to extinguish any spot fires that occur, Schewel said.
Fire will be kept away from several areas, including a water tower, wooden culverts and a four-acre site where University of Arizona researchers have taken continuous measurements of plant mass, tree moisture, soil moisture, precipitation, temperature, humidity and other variables for eight years.
Greg Barron-Gafford, who manages the Critical Zone Observatory site, said the Forest Service has been super cooperative and interested in maintaining the scientific integrity of the site.
Barron-Gafford, a UA assistant professor of biogeography and ecosystem science, said he plans to be on the site Monday, just because were nervous.
In addition to heading off catastrophic fires, prescribed burns help restore forests to a more natural state, said Jim Malusa, a research scientist with the UA School of Natural Resources and the Environment.
Malusa has mapped vegetation on most of the Sky Island ranges managed by the Coronado National Forest, as part of a U.S. Forest Service plan to restore fire to its natural role on the landscape after more than 100 years of snuffing fires as quickly as possible.
The area being burned Monday used to burn at least once a decade, said Malusa.
A study by tree-ring researchers Tom Swetnam and Chris Baisan set the fire-return interval in the adjoining Rose Canyon and Palisades areas at 7.3 years between 1700 and 1900, he said.
Malusa said you can get a better picture of how ponderosa forests develop with regular fire in the adjacent Rincon Mountains, where fires have not been aggressively fought. The whole top of the Rincons is ponderosa grasslands, he said.
He said such natural forests have an appearance anyone would recognize large mature trees and an understory that doesnt reach into the canopy.
Its a park-like area a nice place to walk and dream and picnic.
OPINION: "Dickens' famous passage about an earlier fraught time captures this knife-edge moment: 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us...'" writes Tucsonan Brent Harold.
Around this time of year, the sidewalks of South Twelfth Avenue are lined with squash: big ones, small ones, veiny green ones with bell bottoms and curvy trunks, flat little pumpkins and puffy white ones with bumps. (Sorry, squash is so dang pretty it makes me want to write schlocky Dr. Seuss poetry.)
They're usually at the stands that sell the corn. Farmers come up from the Southeast Arizona town of Elfrida to sell them, along with their Mexican honey and packets of dried chiles. When you ask what they're selling, the answer is always the same: "calabazas." (Simple as that.)
I did a little snooping around and I found out that most of them are actually Green-Striped Cushaw squash, also known as the crookneck pumpkin. This variety is primarily grown here and in the American South, where people like to use them in their pumpkin pies. The Slow Food website says the cushaw came up from Mesoamerica, and is currently grown by the Hopi and the Tohono O'Odham, who call it Ha:l.
I have been cooking with this squash which cost me $5 for the past week. The seeds I roasted with salt and pepper, and have been snacking on at work. (They're a little less flaky than your regular pumpkin, but otherwise the same.) The light orange flesh I put in a pasta primavera with tomatoes, summer squash and Cotija cheese. The next morning I cooked an egg over the leftovers, and let the squash fry until it was crispy and brown on the edges.
I was buying some pumpkin empanadas at La Estrella Bakery the other day and I struck up a conversation with the woman who was ringing me up. She told me she likes to make that squash into a dessert. She boils it like you would camotes, or sweet potatoes, with a cone of the Mexican cane sugar piloncillo. Then she pours sweetened condensed milk on top. It's not something you buy at a restaurant, she said. You cook it at home.
When I headed over to the Saint Mary's Food City for the piloncillo and the canned milk, guess what I found! The squash was right there, in a giant bin labeled "Mexican hard squash," two pounds for 98 cents.
Gorgeous! #squash #tucson #calabacitas A photo posted by #ThisIsTucson (@this_is_tucson) on Nov 11, 2016 at 4:57pm PST
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I made some up this morning with my remaining two bowls of squash cubes. (Even a medium-sized Cushaw has quite a bit of meat in there.) I submerged the squash in water with a a couple of star anise pods I bought at Food City, the cone of piloncillo and a cinammon stick. I let it simmer for half an hour. When it came out the flesh was soft and rich and summery like a pumpkin's, but much less stringy. It soaked up the cinnamon and anise, which added a rich campfire feel without being overwhelming.
I have never tasted anything like this before, but it felt so incredibly familiar. I'm still sitting here trying to recall a memory I've never had, of sitting around a table eating this with people I love.
I guess I still have so much to learn about this place we call Tucson, but this lesson was easy ... I could do it in my sleep.
Cushaw dessert squash with piloncillo and sweetened condensed milk
Ingredients:
1 medium-sized Cushaw squash
1 cone piloncillo
2 star anise pods
1 cinnamon stick
14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk
Cut stem off squash and then slice in half. Remove seeds and strings from inside of squash. (Seeds can be roasted separately.) Carefully cut away skin and chop flesh into 1-inch cubes.
Boil four cups of water in medium-sized pot. Add piloncillo cone, star anise and cinnamon stick. When piloncillo is dissolved, add the squash and simmer for half an hour. Plate, and top with sweetened condensed milk, to taste.
Help India!
By TCN News
New Delhi: Creating Muslim as the enemy to mobilize the Hindus and manufacture a conflict between the two is the primary aim of the RSS-BJP government in the country, a meet organized by peoples movement Satyagarh Abhiyan here today observed. It demanded a Supreme Court-monitored probe into the October 31 Bhopal encounter in which one police constable and eight other undertrials were killed. The meet was attended by Gujarat Dalit leader Jignesh Mevani and Shamshad Pathan, and expressed concern over politics of fake encounter in India.
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From Left to Right: Miran Haidar Student JMI, Parvez Alam Khan, Jignesh Mevani, Ameeque Jamei, Mohit Pandey President JNUSU and Advocate Shamshad Pathan
The politics of fake encounter propelled the prime ministership of Narendra Modi. We all know how Sadiq Jamal, Ishrat Jahan, Sohrabuddin Sheikh and Tulsi Prajapati were eliminated by police after terming them as Lashkar affiliates. This politics of fake encounter is now being replicated by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Pathan said, adding that he may throw his hat in the ring for the position of prime minister soon ahead of the next general elections.
The Satyagrah Abhiyan has stepped up effort for mobilization of people from November 13 at Jantar Mantar to spearhead the cause for justice for nine people, including the police constable killed in Madhya Pradesh. The police claim that alleged SIMI activists had killed the constable, before escaping from jail.
Calling for a wider pan-India Dalit-Muslim OBC alliance, Jignesh Mevani said, that these communities need to come on one platform to fight the RSS led forces in the country. Punching hole in the Gujarat model of development, Mevani pointed out that Modi created fake aura of the Gujarat model by hosting vibrant Gujarat summits, while actual investments never came.
The CAG kept on exposing scams after scams in the state. Modi was rattled by economic challenges and thus resorted to the politics of encounter killings to save his face. The Patidar and Dalit movements are shining example of failure of Gujarat model.
Political activist Ameeque Jamei termed the Bhopal encounter as an attack on the Constitution of India, in which eight under-trials allegedly affiliated with alleged SIMI activist were killed in cold blood while a constable was murdered. He demanded a Supreme Court monitored probe into the incident. There is no rule of Constitution in Madhya Pradesh, where police cannot register a case against RSS cadres, who are involved in criminal incidents, he said.
Jamia Nagar based Congress activist Parwez Alam Khan said that BJP-RSS government is playing the politics of perception, and attempting to create a conflict between both the communities. They are engineering a conflict between Ram and Rahim with the aim of winning the elections in Uttar Pradesh. They want to polarize the communities, he said. Khan wondered how locks of ISO-certified jail opened with wooden keys and steel spoons? The press meet termed the RSS-VHP as the biggest threat to internal security in the country.
JNUSU president Mohit Pandey recalled the Vyapam scam in Madhya Pradesh in which at least 55 people related or linked to it have been killed in mysterious circumstances. He recalled the alleged fake Batla House encounter in which Jamia students were allegedly implicated and killed.
Jamia Millia Islamia student leader Meeran Haidar expressed concern over the implication of educated Muslim youths in the country in terror charges. If one wants to become a doctor, engineer or MBA graduate, he might be framed in terror cases by the agencies.
Help India!
By Pushkar Raj for TwoCircles.net
Pink and Akira, two recent Bollywood hit films, depict an ugly reality of the police in India. It seems much has not changed in country for the last ten years since the Supreme Court in Prakash Singh case ordered in September 2006 that the police must be made functionally autonomous and accountable by enacting new police laws.
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After 1947, Indian police continued to be governed by the police laws framed in 1861, thereby retaining its colonial character. Intriguingly, after gaining independence while democratic laws have been legislated, their instrument of implementation- the police continue to be authoritarian. This conflict plays out in a citizens life every day which is convincingly presented in Pink and Akira.
In Pink, police hound and frame three young women under false charge of prostitution at the behest of a political master. The case is illegally registered; backdating FIR and women are arrested without following service rules. In the film, police act under the influence of the politician and his henchmen flouting law, a routine event in the country, cynically accepted without much indignation.
Political interference in policing is rampant in the country. Whether it is intimidating and arresting political opponents, firing on protesting citizens, fixing human rights activists or being inactive while mob kill selective ethnic or religious minority, police are ready to crawl where they are asked to bend by the politicians. Prakash Singh, a former Director General of police, highlighted this before the Supreme Court which after deliberating over plethora of documentary evidence for ten years expressed its disappointment at the situation and ordered the centre and the state governments to professionalise the police service from a rotten politicised force.
A politicised police is dangerous for a democratic society. The political patronage and interference in police promote culture of impunity and encounter killings, ghastly portrayed in Akira.
In the film, police rob huge cash from an injured person and kill him. They also execute a few potential witnesses in cold blood and pass them off as encounters. The films encounter scene has an uncanny resemblance with the recent killing of eight SIMI under-trial activists in Bhopal where senior police officials are heard on phone instructing police on ground to eliminate the escapee (Hindustan Times, 4 November 2016).
Encounter killings in India are endemic. In a press statement, National Human Rights Commission said in October 2016 that there were 206 cases of encounter killings in last twelve months. The majority of these deaths are questionable as reports of human rights organisations and independent citizens fact finding reports suggest. Needless to say, culprits go unpunished. Hashimpura massacre is one of the few examples.
Indian police are plagued with serious structural malaise. An average policeman does not know his Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure and Indian Evidence Act well. He does not get chance to develop and refresh his professional skills in service. He learns hands on and makes terrible mistakes that have serious repercussions on justice delivery in the society. The conviction rate, according to National Crime Research Bureau, was 45.1 per cent in the country in 2014, while the conviction rate in crime against women is merely 21.3 per cent. In other words, in 55 per cent cases either people were wrongly framed or they got away without punishment after committing a crime, thereby adding injustice in already unjust society. What is the use of having strict laws on crime against women when nationwide about 78 per cent accused get away with a crime?
Indian police is in such a pathetic state because there is no investment in basic infrastructure and human resource in policing. The police continue to lack basic amenities and support for performing their duties. For example, a right to information application revealed that 23 police stations in Jammu and Kashmir lack drinking water facility while 14 are without a toilet (Indian Express, 14 October). Average police personnel is over worked and lowly paid. Consequently, he becomes like the havaldar of Akira who counts on his share of booty to solemnize his daughters marriage.
The Supreme Court judgment tried to address some of these structural issues in policing in the country. However, 17 states that have passed new laws have diluted them considerably. The centre has also not implemented the Supreme Courts order in union territories. If it had, Delhi police would not be able to act in such a partisan manner, without facing tough accountability at different levels.
Clearly the establishment- the political elite- does not have an interest in reforming the police because control over it suits them. But their convenience is against the interest of the society. While common man experiences persecution and legal injustice, our police are getting dehumanized and brutalized.
The police leadership must impress upon the political leadership that they can neither have job satisfaction, nor pride in service if they keep dragging resource starved mass of demoralized men who are setup to indulge in serious service aberrations. Home ministry 2016-17 budget is merely 30.2 per cent of defense ministry allocation while they have more or less same number of men to cater to. Even out of these 77,923 crores of home ministry budget, allocation for police modernization is paltry 11 percent. The police leadership must insist on greater resources for the internal security services from the political leadership to inject some oxygen to a listless body that the Indian police have become.
The leadership of social movements may also consider adding the issue of changes in policing structures in their demand for legal justice beside social and economic justice which is a major need, right and demand of the poor, dalits and minorities across the country. They should impress upon political parties like Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) that it should commit to systemic changes in policing in the country rather than political control over it. A start can be made with coming elections in Punjab, where the party has a strong support.
Pink and Akira present to us a distressing reality of policing in our society. It depends on us whether we continue to live with it or endeavor to change it. For a young nation on the path of so many changes, it is not a big ask.
The writer is Melbourne-based researcher and author. He campaigned for police reform in the country after the Supreme Court Judgment on police reform in 2006. Formerly he taught political science in Delhi University and was the national general secretary of the PUCL
Help India!
By Pervez Bari, TwoCircles.net
AJMER: Not only cutting across various sects in the Muslim community, prominent religious leaders of different other faiths were also perched on the dais giving a strong message loud and clear that Indias age old tradition of Unity in Diversity is still alive and kicking.
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Massive gathering at the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind public meeting in Ajmer at the conclusion of 33rd general session of JUH
This scenario was on display at the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind (JUH) public meeting in Ajmer at the conclusion of the 33rd national general session of JUH on Sunday at the Kayad Vishram Sthali about 15 kms away on the outskirts of historical city.
The stage was decorated with Muslim clerics of all sects, and caretakers of shrine of Sufi saint Hazrat Khawja Moinuddin Chishti (R) who is remembered as Ghareeb Nawaz represented by the office-bearers of the Anjuman Syed Zadgan of Dargah Ajmer and Professor Akhtar-ul-Wasey, former trustee of Ajmer Dargah along with Maulana Tauqueer Raza Khan, chief of the Bareilly sect.
Religious heads of other faiths who graced the dais to make the picture perfect were Swami Chidanand Saraswati, Acharya Lokesh Muni, Pandit N. K. Sharma and Dalit leader Ashok Bharti, the chairman of the National Conference of Dalit Organisations, (NACDOR).
The above conglomeration representing the Unity in Diversity was a strong rap on the divisionary tactics of the governments of the day vehemently backed by the saffron brigade which has been busy targeting Muslims, Dalits and Adivasis ever since the BJP-led Narendra Modis NDA Government came to power in May 2014 at the centre. If it was earlier Ghar Wapsi; Love Jihad; Beef politics; Gaurakshaks; it is nowadays the melodrama of Triple Talaq and Uniform Civil Code controversy threatening to rip apart communal harmony and peace and thereby severely jeopardise the National Integration of the country.
As such in this backdrop a clarion call was given to forge unity amongst Muslims, Dalits and Adivasis to unite against the injustices being meted out to them and to all the oppressed. A resolution of Muslim-Dalit-Adivasi unity was also passed by voice vote. It also stressed need of forging unity with Dalits and backward classes and asking to all Muslims to maintain cordial relations with members of every section of the society for strengthening the national unity.
Maulana Niaz Ahmad Faruqi while reading the resolution asserted that Jamiat will fight against social injustice meted out to the Dalits and Adivasis.
The eight-point Ajmer declaration warned the Union Government that if Uniform Civil code is imposed on this country or interference made in the Muslim Personal Law, then our status will not be of a free citizen. The declaration also condemned triple talaq at one go and appealed to every sections of the Muslim society to make stride to eliminate this wrong practice.
View of Unity in Diversity: Muslims of various sects and leaders of other faiths hold hands to emphasise unity.
On rising communal incidents in the country since the present government came to power, JUH general secretary Maulana Madani said the Jamiat has been pressing upon the previous governments to pass anti-communal valence law but unfortunately they did not heed this demand.
The resolution states: Jamiat considers communal harmony as the pre-condition for the security and integrity of the country. It regards incidence of communal riots as a blot on the face of the nation and stumbling block in the countrys progress. Its the primary duty of the Government to maintain peace and security in the country. It must not allow communal disturbance. Therefore this session of the Jamiat demands from the Central and the state Governments to enact anti- Communal violence law.
It also expressed deep concern over declining representation of Muslims in different walks of life and made several demands for rectifying the situation including reservations and scraping of religious bar from the Article 341 .
In his presidential address, Jamiat president Maulana Mohammad Usman Mansoorpuri especially touched upon the sectarian differences among Muslims adding that it is a call of time that every sects should be on a common platform on issues related to the nation and community. In the past, he warned that sectarian differences among Muslims have caused harm to the nation and the Muslim world.
Help India!
By Twocircles.net Staff reporter,
Mumbai: A special NIA court here on Saturday rejected the bail application of 2008 Malegaon blast accused, Major Ramesh Upadhyay.
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Consdiering all (these) facts as well as peculiar circumstances of this case, nature and gravity of the offence, coupled with restrictuion imposed by subsection (5) of Section 43D of the UAPAct, I think that the applicant is not entitled to be released on bail, Special NIA Judge S D Tekale observed in the order.
On September 29, 2008 blast had taken place at Bhiku square opposite Shakil Goods Transport Company in a textile town Malegaon. The blast was caused by LML Freedom motorcycle with explosives concealed inside. 4 people had dead and 79 injured due to the blast.
Upadhyay was booked for his role in hatching the conspiracy along with Lieutenant Colonel Prasad Purohit. The two were members of Abhinav Bharat, an extremist Hindu organisation. The National Investigation Agency (NIA), which probed the blast, alleged that Upadhyay attended meetings during which the conspiracy was hatched at Bhopal, Faridabad and other places.
On January 25 and 26 in 2008, a secret meeting was held at Faridabad, during which Upadhyay accepted Purohits theory that a separate constitution and flag (bhagwa flag) were needed for a Hindu Rashtra. He participated in a discussion on the formation of a central Hindu government (Aryawart) against the Indian government and proposed to form this government in Israel or Thailand, reads the charge sheet filed by the agency.
Adv. Wahab Khan appointed by Jamiat-Ulama-e-Maharashtra (Arshad Madni) to represent intervene Nisar Ahmed successfully argued to convince court in rejecting the bail application. Special public prosecutor Avinash Rasal objected to the bail plea. The prosecution contended that though the meetings did not involve explicit discussions on bombing Malegaon, the atrocities committed by Muslims were discussed.
Upadhyay, in his bail plea, said recordings of the meetings showed that the organisation held only general discussions regarding the establishment of Abhinav Bharat. These are aimless talks, sheer frustration expressed by the accused on societys state of affairs, and utopian ideas, which could not have and have not been implemented in any manner, reads the bail plea.
Defence lawyer Pasbola argued that the meetings did not involve discussions on bombing Malegaon. He also questioned the agency for not implicating Abhinav Bharats president and other members who attended these meetings. He also contended that most of the witnesses have retracted their statements to NIA.
Adv. Khan asserted that trial court has to look into both the charge sheets to decide the bail application at the present juncture.
Prosecutor Rasal contended that call data record (CDR) analysis of Upadhyay and Purohits mobile phones showed that the two were in contact. He said Abhinav Bharats earlier president and other executive members withdrew their membership from the organisation owing to Purohits activities.
Considering the prosecutions case and evidences presented by the anti terrorism squad (ATS) and NIA, the special court refused to grant bail to Upadhyay.
Earlier court has rejected bail to Sadhvi Pragya Thakur and Col. Purohit sighting enough prosecutable evidences against them to deny bail.
A deadly magnitude 7.8 Earthquake struck New Zealand's South Island, leaving two people dead. According to the US Geological Survey the earthquake struck just after midnight (11:02 GMT Sunday) around 95km from Christchurch. The earthquake was followed by a tsunami just two hours later in Kaikoura with small but very dangerous waves hitting the coast near Wellington according to the weather site, Weather Watch.
Head for higher ground warnings
The ministry of civil defence advised residents on the South island near the east coast, as well as those living in the nearby Chatham islands to head inland or for higher ground.
They also described the Tsunami as " an event of life-threatening or national significance. However by 08:00 am local time (19:00 GMT) the prime minister John Key downgraded the warning to "marine and beach threat" as the waves only reached 1 meter along the small stretch of coast which included the Chatham islands, an archipelago some 680 km of the mainland.
People coping very well
Authorities in New Zealand said the regions were coping well with the disaster and said they were not yet declaring a national emergency. St Johns ambulance have been sending helicopters with rescue and medical personnel to the epicenter of the quake, where many homes have been destroyed and fissures in the ground have caused landslides.
Elsewhere in the city, the earthquake has caused a ferry loading ramp toe collapse, sending hundreds of tourists onto the streets as hotels were evacuated.
'Drop, cover and hold'
New Zealand police have said in a statement: "A number of after-shocks of a lesser magnitude have been experienced up and down the country. Police continue to remind members of the public to 'drop, cover and hold' during any subsequent earthquake".
The earthquake comes five years after a 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck Christchurch in 2011 causing widespread damage and killing 185 people. It was one of the deadliest disasters to hit the nations and caused an estimated $25 billion in damage.
"Days Of Our Lives" fans are expecting Hope Brady (Kristian Alfonso) to go to prison. However, there is another Salem women that will end up behind bars. Who is it and why is she there?
Hope Brady's prison sentence
Kristian Alfonso's character on "Days Of Our Lives" is going to prison this week. She will be sentenced to 25 years. Additionally, the judge has given Hope Brady no chance of parole. This is a shocking sentence, especially considering how evil Stefano DiMera (Joseph Mascolo) was. There is also the fact that Hope was under a lot of emotional strain and was not in her right mind during the shooting.
Hope meets another Salem fan favorite character in prison
"DOOL" spoilers tease that Hope will meet some familiar faces in prison. One of those is someone fans will not only recognize, but is considered a fan favorite character. What is she doing there?
Marlena Evans goes to jail on 'Days Of Our Lives'
Imagine Hope's surprise when Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall) shows up in prison. Hope is shocked and Marlena says her name is "Hattie." She actually looks kind of tough with her hair disheveled and wearing a prison outfit. The "DOOL" character is apparently there to protect Hope.
Will Hope get released from prison?
While Hope is in prison, Rafe Hernandez (Galen Gering), Shawn Brady (Brandon Beemer), Steve Johnson (Stephen Nichols), and Shane Donovan (Charles Shaughnessy) will try to get her released.
They are pouring over case files and studying a computer screen. How will they get Hope Brady released from prison on "Days Of Our Lives"? Will they find out information on the judge and get a new trial? Or will they find some other way to get her out from behind bars?
What do you think is going to happen on the NBC soap opera?
How does Marlena Evans plan on helping Hope Brady in prison? What other familiar faces will be seen Will she be able to get released despite her harsh sentence? Keep watching the soap opera to find out what happens next.
"Days Of Our Lives" airs weekdays on NBC.
The office of a tech park in Skolkovo Innovation Center, Moscow. [Photo/Xinhua]
Both nations see huge potential to develop expanding scientific and tech centers
As the two countries agreed to push the coordination of the Eurasian Economic Union and Belt and Road Initiatives, Chinese science and technology parks are now seeking opportunities in Russian markets.
TusPark, a science park under Tsinghua University, didn't want to miss the opportunity. After signing a strategic cooperation framework agreement with Skolkovo Technology Park, witnessed by Premier Li Keqiang and Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev in 2014, TusPark is maintaining close connections with its Russian counterpart.
Yuri Saprykin, vice-president of the Far East division of Skolkovo, told China Daily cooperation with Chinese science parks has already started, as they have signed agreements with both Z-Park and TusPark allowing companies from either park to use Skolkovo as a window and gateway to the Russian high-tech market.
Moreover, science park cooperation is expected to evolve as he said a joint investment for a science park in Moscow is being planned, and will be further discussed in the coming meeting of the two prime ministers in November.
Medvedev said the country has carried out a major innovation project in Skolkovo, which is claimed to be the largest science park in Europe, and has already had cooperation and dealings with Chinese science parks and high-tech companies.
In late September, he said, the country welcomed foreign investors. "Now in Moscow there are 26 science parks, and a number of science parks operate in other places," he noted. "Still advanced knowledge and equipment from other countries are needed, and different models and forms of innovation from different territories, such as special economic zones, scientific parks and innovation clusters from China and other countries, are needed."
Saprykin revealed Chinese companies, such as TusPark and Z-Park, had both shown great interest in the Russian market, and started negotiations with Russian local high-tech startups.
Herbert Chen, vice-president of TusPark, said China and Russia enjoy a great potential of cooperation in the field of science parks with their various advantages as political relations push broader bilateral cooperation.
Chen said the international business strategy of TusPark is made under the reference of China's Belt and Road Initiatives, and their strategy has been more friendly to Russian markets in recent years.
"Chinese science parks have established connections with Russian parks over the past 10 years, and Russia has been a key area when making the international strategy," he said.
"In the future there will be more Russian elements in their plan."
Zheng Xiaodong, managing director of international operation of Z-Park, said there is huge potential of innovation cooperation between China and Russia.
"On one hand, such cooperation has gained full support from both governments in the policy aspect," Zheng said. "On the other hand, both sides are actively seeking a new direction of opportunities."
"In the past the direction was energy cooperation, and then military cooperation, now we can see more cooperative points in innovation," he said.
"We can't ignore the fact that the current excellent Sino-Russian relations and policy support from governments help to boost our business links with China," Saprykin said. "But as a businessman, we prefer saying that we want to cooperate with China because we really see lots of potential, and there will be a win-win for both countries."
The blue-and-white porcelain pieces, made in the 17th-19th century and collected by the Frick family, are shown for the first time in public as a group at Nassau County Museum of Art in the Long Island, New York. LU HUIQUAN / FOR CHINA DAILY
One of the largest and most important suburban art museums in the United States, located in the heart of Long Island's fabled Gold Coast, is exhibiting Chinese ancient and contemporary art from collectors on Long Island.
The exhibition China Then and Now Nassau County Museum of Art (NCMA) is open until March 8 at the museum on the former Frick estate, 20 miles east of New York City in Roslyn Harbor, Long Island.
The exhibition starts with Buddhist sculpture made of stone and marble from the 6th century. The sculptures were made during a time when civil wars pushed people to Buddhism for spiritual asylum and were not recognized as fine art by the American mainstream until the 20th century.
The exhibition, which took three years to plan, continues with blue-and-white porcelain from the Ming and Qing dynasties and ends with ink paintings by Liu Dan, a contemporary Chinese painter.
"Our guiding idea in the exhibition has been to present works that best characterize facets of Chinese art," said Amy Poster, curator of the exhibition.
"The show is highly selective," said Poster. While the "Then" part was presented by Buddhist art from the 4th-8th century, and the blue-and-white porcelain represent works around the 17t -19th centuries, the "Now" part is presented by Liu Dan's art works, which combine Western styles and traditional Chinese ink painting techniques.
Long Island collectors have some of the most dazzling Chinese art, said Poster. Affluent residents in the area traveled around the world and bought Chinese artworks. "When you travel, you get excited about certain things, and those blue-and-white [porcelains] became fashionable," said Laura Lynch, NCMA's director of education.
In 1919 Henry Clay Frick, co-founder of US Steel Corporation, purchased the Georgian mansion that now houses the museum as a wedding gift for his son, Childs Frick, a fan of Chinese art. The museum used to be Frick's residence, and some of the house's decorations were imported from China. He also had an extensive collection of Chinese porcelains that were used both for artistic displays and for daily uses. The collection is being shown for the first time in a group.
"American collectors, museums and scholars have long appreciated Chinese culture and the arts of China as one of the world's great artistic cultures," said Poster.
But it has become illegal to sell Chinese antiques for profit. And as Chinese government regulation tightens, it is increasingly difficult for foreign collectors to acquire Chinese antiques. American collectors, therefore, started to shift their attention toward contemporary artists.
In a separate but related exhibition - Long Island Collects the Arts of China at NCMA - more modern Chinese artworks are shown. Beyond religious or aesthetic pursuits, these Chinese artists touched social topics. For example, one of Chinese installation artist and textile designer Lin Tianmiao's Focus series puts the artist's own digital photograph on canvas with thread, which reflects the restrictions women are facing in China.
A workshop on Chinese art will also be available from Feb 17 to 19, where parents could create artworks with children after a tour of the museum. "It's about getting out of your room, getting out of your computer and talking about things, thinking creatively. Each problem solving is getting through an art medium," Lynch said.
Lu Huiquan in New York contributed to this story.
As wealth in China increases, the volume of illegal luxury vehicle exports from the US also has increased. "It's big business," Tim Dunne, director of global automotive operations at California market-research firm JD Power and Associates, told China Daily.
Now a probe into alleged kickbacks being paid to salesmen at New York-region luxury vehicle dealerships part of a nationwide investigation is moving into a new phase as investigators get set to file charges, the New York Times reported.
The investigation focuses on dealerships in New York and New Jersey that sell Mercedes, BMWs, Range Rovers and Porsches and whether executives sold new cars to businesses engaged in exporting luxury vehicles to China.
Federal prosecutors have seized dozens of high-end cars at ports around the US and bank accounts holding millions of dollars. US authorities were seeking to halt "a burgeoning black-market industry" that was trying to undercut legitimate dealerships in China, the Automotive News reported.
At least 35,000 luxury vehicles a year are purchased at US dealers and sent out of the country illegally, the Wall Street Journal has reported.Typically, the scammers hire "straw buyers" in the US to purchase cars from dealers and ship them overseas by claiming them as used vehicles, according to authorities.
The cars typically retail for $55,000 to $75,000 and are supposed to be sold only for domestic use. It is not clear what laws the export businesses are violating.
At any rate, "as wealth (in China) has increased, the volume of gray market" - or illegal - "luxury vehicle exports has increased," Dunne said.
Even after factoring in shipping and other costs, the exporters can make "a huge profit" on each vehicle, Automotive News reported. The schemes can cause big financial problems for US dealers, who are contractually prohibited from selling new vehicles to anyone who intends to export them and can be penalized by the automakers for doing so - even if they do so unwittingly, the automotive-industry news website reported.
Dealerships that sell to exporters may be forced to pay charge-backs, have incentives revoked and receive fewer vehicles from the factory in the future, according to an article on the website. Fraudulent registrations also hurt dealerships that do not sell to exporters because such registrations understate the dealerships' actual market shares, making it appear they are falling short of sales targets, the article said. That can affect bonuses paid by automakers as well as future allocation.
The price-tags tell the tale. In the United States, the Porsche Cayenne a midsized luxury crossover vehicle has a sticker price of just more than $50,000. In China, the car's base price is 922,000 yuan, or nearly $149,000 nearly three times the US cost.
Donna Boland, a spokeswoman for Daimler AG's New Jersey-based Mercedes-Benz USA unit, has told China Daily illicit vehicle exports hurt the company by undermining its "pricing and volume positioning" in its global markets.
"We have an exclusive distribution and license agreement to distribute and sell Mercedes-Benz vehicles and parts solely within the United States of America or its territories," Boland told China Daily.
Steps must be taken "to ensure that vehicles produced and equipped for the US market are sold to end consumers in the US and not operated in areas for which they were not designed or certified", according to Boland.
Illegal exports pose issues for buyers, too, Boland said in an email to China Daily. A buyer's glee over his illgotten gains may turn to anguish "since overseas Mercedes-Benz distributors may not stock parts and/or accessories necessary to properly service US specification vehicles.
The impact from this investigation will become clearer in the months ahead. The US governments yearlong crackdown is starting to have an impact on overseas demand and some wealthy buyers in China are backing away from transactions, the Times reported.
Contact the writer at michaelbarris@chinadailyusa.com
Obama appoints Chinese American to commission Updated: 2014-04-22 08:18 By AMY HE in New York (China Daily USA)
President Barack Obama has appointed Grace Tsao-Wu, a Chinese-American, to be a member of the Commission on Presidential Scholars.
Established in 1964, commission members select scholars for exceptional talent in visual, creative and performing arts from a pool of 3,000 high school candidates each year. They then name up to 141 as Presidential Scholars, one of the nation's highest honors for high school students.
Tsao-Wu's appointment was announced on April 18 by the White House.
She is a partner at Chicago-based fashion brand LaudiVidni, and is also the owner and founder of Tabula Tua, a homeware store.
She is on the advisory board of the Chinese American Service League, which provides social services to Chinese and Chinese Americans in the Chicago area, and on the board of One Million Degrees, an organization that helps low-income students get through community college. She graduated with an MBA from Harvard Business School.
Tsao-Wu has been a major donor to the Obama campaign. In early April, she and Craig Freedman, a fundraiser, hosted a Democratic National Committee dinner fundraiser in their Lincoln Park home in Chicago. The president was present for the 55-person dinner, all of whom donated up to $10,000 each, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
In 2011 and 2012, Tsao-Wu raised more than $290,000 for the Obama campaign, and since 2007 has raised close to $600,000, according to the New York Times. Those amounts do not include contributions from Tsao-Wu herself and do not reflect all the money she raised for the campaign, according to the newspaper.
In commenting on Tsao-Wu's appointment to the Scholars Commission, Joyce Moy, executive director at the Asian American/Asian Research Institute in New York, noted that under the Obama administration there has been more participation from Asian Americans compared to previous presidencies.
Asian Americans' participation in politics has been increasing over the last decade, and especially in their involvement in the Obama campaign, she said.
"There was a fairly large turnout for Obama in the last two elections," she said. In the 2012 election, 77 percent of Asian Americans voted for Obama, according to figures from the Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund.
Moy said that increasing Asian American visibility and growing populations of Asian Americans across the country are also influencing participation in US politics.
"I think there is a greater interest in participating and the reason for that is many people feel that they want their voices heard. The Asian community has not been invited to the table in earlier generations and now with the folks like President Obama, whose political career has been built on building coalitions, there's a great opportunity for people of Asian heritage to participate and to be invited to participate," she said.
Appointed with Tsao-Wu to the commission was Howard Borin, a Delware-based pediatrician. Current commission members include Sheldon Pang, member of the China Advisory Council at Brown University and vice-chairman of Freepoint Commodities, and Marina McCarthy, an associate of the Davis Center at Harvard University.
amyhe@chinadailyusa.com
Nordstrom pulls hoodie depicting Nanjing massacre Updated: 2016-11-14 06:47 (Agencies)
People walk past the Nordstrom Rack store, in New York's Union Square, May 21, 2010. [Photo/Agencies]
US fashion retailer Nordstrom was in hot water Sunday after placing a hoodie depicting a scene from the massacre in the Chinese city of Nanjing for sale on one of its websites.
The company has since removed the item, which featured a still image of Japanese soldiers about to behead victims in the 2009 film City of Life and Death, which was about the violent episode in late-1930s China.
Outraged shoppers posted messages of disappointment on Nordstrom's Facebook page, demanding apologies and asking for the company to take down the article.
"We have removed this item from our site and updated our process so that this type of item isn't offered in the future," the company said in response to an angry post on its Facebook page.
Emblazoned across the back of a black hoodie, the still shot shows a scene from the movie with added flourishes, such as red bars across the eyes of the victims and soldiers and the message "Why indifference?" scribbled across the top of the image.
In the foreground, a woman has been superimposed sitting on a bench, staring into the distance indifferently.
"Nordstrom, please take down this disgusting cloth," one Facebook user wrote yesterday.
In response to yet another indignant message demanding an explanation, Nordstrom offered "our sincerest apologies for the disappointment."
The Nordstrom Rack website offered it for sale under the label "Happiness" by Andrea Hoodie.
The Nanjing massacre, often called the "Rape of Nanjing," refers to the mass murder and rape committed by Japanese troops after the fall of the Chinese city of Nanjing in 1937.
Russian parliament chief arrives in Tehran for talks with Iranian officials Updated: 2016-11-14 10:02 (Xinhua)
TEHRAN - Russia's Federation Council Chairperson Valentina Ivanovna Matvienko arrived in the Iranian capital city of Tehran on Sunday for multi-dimensional talks with senior Iranian officials, Press TV reported.
During her two-day official visit, Matvienko will meet with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani and Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif.
Matvienko is accompanied in her trip by the chairman of Russian Federation Council's defense and security committee, Viktor Ozerov, and a number of parliamentary officials, According to the report.
She will bring up a variety of issues in the talks with the Iranian officials, including ways to improve parliamentary cooperation and to reinforce convergence in the Middle East to fight terrorism in Syria, Matvienko told official IRNA news agency earlier.
Tehran and Moscow have stressed the importance of bolstering cooperation and taken positive steps and made great achievements in this regard, she added.
China ready to enhance US relations, Wang says Updated: 2016-11-14 11:14 By Mo Jingxi(chinadaily.com.cn)
China is ready to achieve more progress in China-US ties after the election of Donald Trump as the next US president, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Sunday.
"We're willing to communicate with Trump's team, enhance mutual understanding and broaden our consensus on cooperation," he said in Ankara at a joint news conference with his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu.
Wang was there to co-chair the first meeting of the China-Turkey consultation mechanism.
He told reporters that China and the US have kept close contact at all levels, and it is the consensus of both US Republicans and Democrats to develop and deepen the bilateral relationship.
"We're willing to continue cooperation with the Obama administration, to ensure the smooth transition of our relationship to the next US administration," he said.
In a congratulatory message to Trump on his election on Wednesday, President Xi Jinping said China is willing to push China-US relations further forward from a new starting point, on the basis of principles of non-conflict, non-confrontation, mutual respect and win-win cooperation.
"This has shown the direction for future development of bilateral ties," Wang said, adding that China is willing to work together with the US in this regard.
US President-elect Donald Trump said on CBS' 60 Minutes program on Sunday evening that he will deport millions of "criminal" undocumented immigrants immediately after he assumes office in January.
"What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people, probably 2 million, it could be even 3 million; we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate," Trump told 60 Minutes. "But we're getting them out of our country; they're here illegally."
US House Speaker Paul Ryan, a Republican, said that a plan to forcibly remove undocumented immigrants from the country is unlikely.
"We are not planning on erecting a deportation force. Donald Trump is not planning on that," Ryan said Sunday on CNN's State of the Union.
Trump's plan to rein in illegal immigration could change, with him backing off his vow to build a solid wall along the border with Mexico.
Trump was asked on 60 Minutes if he would accept a fence in some spots.
"For certain areas, I would, but certain areas, a wall is more appropriate," Trump said. "There could be some fencing."
China Daily USA posted a Xinhua story about Trump's immigration comments on its Facebook page, which generated a variety of responses.
Why is "criminal" in quotes? And why the politically correct term "undocumented immigrants"? They're ILLEGAL ALIENS, which makes them CRIMINALS. Try to be an illegal alien in China and see what that gets you," wrote one commenter.
"Then get all the European Americans out. Native Americans are the first Americans, everyone else is here illegally, according to their sacred law," another posted.
"A windfall for rich high-paid immigration lawyers. This will be no easy task and cost trillions."
"Just give the man time to do what he thinks don't talk bad on him. I think he is going to do a very good job. I am a black man. I think a lot of him."
"They are destroying their country only to reside in other nations. Mr President you are right."
"Deport him immigrants offer more than he ever will and they are welcome here."
"He is following the laws we already have."
Trump and his advisers already have signaled he may hedge on some of his other major campaign promises, including healthcare and appointing a special prosecutor to investigate Hillary Clinton, his Democratic presidential campaign opponent.
In other political news on Sunday, Trump named Republican Party chief Reince Priebus as White House chief of staff and conservative media owner Stephen Bannon as his top strategist, two men who represent opposite camps in the the GOP.
In bringing Priebus and Bannon into the White House, Trump is making overtures to both traditional Republican circles and the party's anti-establishment wing, which helped fuel the businessman's political rise.
Priebus has ties to GOP congressional leaders, particularly Ryan. Bannon previously ran the Breitbart.com website, which has been highly critical of Republican leadership, including Ryan.
Bannon was given top billing in the press release announcing the appointments, a curious arrangement given that White House chief of staff is typically considered the most powerful West Wing job.
Together with Vice President-elect Mike Pence, the triumvirate will lead Trump's transition and help guide his presidency.
"I am thrilled to have my very successful team continue with me in leading our country," Trump said.
On trade, US Secretary of State John Kerry said that he hopes Trump will drop his opposition to the Trans-Pacific Partnership free-trade deal.
The 12-nation TPP, which doesn't include China, became a contentious issue during the US election campaign, with critics saying it would cost American jobs.
The deal has been signed but not ratified by US lawmakers.
Kerry denied that the TPP was intended to create an economic bulwark against China's rise in the Asia-Pacific.
"It's not about China," he said on Sunday. "The United States welcomes the peaceful rise of a great nation like China; we've said that directly to President Xi (Jinping)."
Kerry said he and President Barack Obama are "deeply committed" to the deal but would not try to push it through a "lame duck" legislative session before Trump takes over.
Trump also was back on Twitter on Sunday. During a four-hour spree, he criticized The New York Times and talked about GOP stalwarts who congratulated him, saying that critics and GOP rivals John Kasich, Mitt Romney and Jeb Bush had sent well wishes.
"Wow, the @nytimes is losing thousands of subscribers because of their very poor and highly inaccurate coverage of the Trump phenomena,'" Trump wrote to his 14 million Twitter followers.
Former presidents George W. and George H.W. Bush also sent their "best wishes on the win. Very nice!"
Also on Sunday, Trump's campaign manager Kellyanne Conway said Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid should be careful in a "legal sense" about characterizing Trump as a sexual predator.
When asked whether Trump was threatening to sue Reid, Conway said no.
But Adam Jentleson, Reid's deputy chief of staff, said Trump is "hiding behind his Twitter account and sending his staff on TV to threaten his critics".
Reunification gets boost Updated: 2016-11-14 14:14 By LIA ZHU in San Francisco(chinadaily.com.cn)
Overseas Chinese in the US are being urged to contribute to the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations and play more of a role in the rejuvenation of Chinese nation.
More than 100 representatives from 15 chapters of the Washington-based National Association for Chinese Peaceful Unification and officials from China gathered on Saturday in San Francisco for the organization's annual joint conference. CONGJIANG WANG/ FOR CHINA DAILY
More than 100 representatives from 15 chapters of the Washington-based National Association for Chinese Peaceful Unification (NACPU), as well as officials from China gathered on Saturday in San Francisco for the organization's annual joint conference. Participants discussed the role of overseas Chinese in unifying the motherland and boosting Chinese development.
Since the new leader of Taiwan took office this year, the good relationship that had been maintained between both sides across the Taiwan Straits for eight years has been greatly impeded and the interests of the Taiwan people have been jeopardized, said Ran Wanxiang, vice-president of the China Overseas Friendship Association.
He told the conference that Beijing would adhere to the 1992 Consensus and firmly oppose "Taiwan independence", despite the change in Taiwan's leadership. He also said he expected overseas Chinese to take advantage of their resources to expand communication channels, promote Chinese culture and foster patriotism.
"The 5,000-year-old Chinese culture is the tie connecting all Chinese in the world," said Ran. "Overseas Chinese are expected to carry forward the Chinese culture and tell the Chinese story well."
He said China has realized outstanding economic development and also provides opportunities for the world. "Overseas Chinese are expected to integrate their individual development with serving the nation's great cause of rejuvenation," said Ran.
"As the world's largest two economies, the US and China have far more shared interests than differences. China can contribute to world peace by realizing her own development," he added.
The fate of the overseas Chinese has been closely tied with the motherland and they have been playing an important role in promoting the peaceful unification of the Chinese nation and China's economic development, said Huang Wentao, a communications director with the Taiwan Affairs Office of China's State Council.
"We have never been so close in history to the goal of reunifying the Chinese nation," he said. "The development and progress of the mainland provides the foundation for peaceful cross-Straits unification."
Huang reiterated that Beijing's principles and policies concerning Taiwan are consistent and will not change after the leadership changed.
"Although the road will not be smooth, the Chinese unification is inevitable. We will keep walking on the right road," he told the conference.
Zha Liyou, deputy Chinese consul in San Francisco, also attended the conference. He said the whole Chinese nation, including the people of Taiwan, will benefit from the Chinese unification and rejuvenation, which is the shared goal of the people across the Straits and all the overseas Chinese.
Congjiang Wang contributed to the story.
Toasting China's national drink Updated: 2016-11-14 14:14 By Chang Jun in San Francisco(chinadaily.com.cn)
More and more people could be lifting their spirits, the Chinese way.
For Moutai, China's leading liquor producer, the new buzzwords are technological innovation and continuous expansion into overseas markets, and the brand is getting a shot in the arm in San Francisco.
On Nov 12, Kweichow Moutai Group kicked off a series of celebrations by hosting a grand banquet and product exhibition at the Palace of Fine Arts to commemorate the first anniversary of Moutai Day in San Francisco.
A delegation led by Li Baofang, general manager of Kweichow Moutai Group of Guizhou, is on a mission to strengthen liquor cultural integration with its Western counterparts, enhance communications with global consumers and help facilitate China-US relations through a variety of platforms that involve people, business and governments on both sides.
During Moutai's overseas centennial celebration held at San Francisco City Hall last year, Mayor Ed Lee named Nov 12 the city's Moutai Day.
In his speech to 500 guests on Saturday night, Li reviewed Moutai's history of growth, brand development and its journey to internationalization by recalling that it had won a gold award at the 1915 Panama Pacific International Exposition which was held "at exactly the same place where we hold the gala tonight."
San Francisco remains a city of opportunity and a shrine to generations of Moutai group employees, Li said, adding "Our ancestors rarely traveled outside of the local town but all of us know the liquor we made through hard word and artisan spirit is well received throughout the world," Li said.
For 100 years, the group has been sustaining the original artisan spirit, adapting to changing environments and embracing technology innovation in order to maintain the legacy of the "Moutai miracle" and Moutai's iconic ranking in China's liquor industry, Li said.
Currently, Moutai products are sold in more than 60 countries and regions in Asia, Europe, the Americans, Oceania and Africa with its liquor exports reaching 614 tons by the end of August, representing a yearly growth of 12.9 percent.
The group reported a net profit of approximately $2.5 billion by the end of August, a 6.7 percent yearly rise over the same period last year, according to Yuan Renguo, chairman of the group, adding that increased exports and expansion into other businesses such as e-commerce, investment and financial leasing contributed to the rise.
Moutai is also known as the "liquor of diplomacy and friendship", serving as the toaster of the normalization of China-US relationship in the 1970s through to the current building of a new type of major power relationship, said Li.
At the famous state dinner of 1972, then Chinese premier Zhou Enlai proposed a toast to visiting US president Richard Nixon with a glass of Moutai as the whole world looked on.
"When I paid a visit to former US president Jimmy Carter and presented him four bottles of Moutai," Li recalled, "Carter said he knew the liquor and called it well-known."
In June, 2013, visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping drank Moutai with his US counterpart President Barack Obama at Sunnylands as Xi initiated the concept of building a new type of major power relationship between the world's two largest economies.
Through political differences and ideological variances, Moutai remains the reliable anchor to revitalize the faith in friendship, said Li.
As the national liquor of China, "Moutai has played a big part in China's international relations and a significant role in celebrating major festive events and moving forward friendship between China and other countries," said Li.
Strolling around the exhibit booths check the lineup of Moutai products, Mayor Lee said, "Moutai is associated with many important celebrations, celebrations of new year, celebration of birthdays, celebrations for meaningful events that bring tons of understanding between many people," he said.
Calling himself a "big supporter of the success of Moutai not only in the US but the world", Li said, "when we drink Moutai, it brings us closer and can help us accomplish more than we think on the people-to-people level, on the local level, national level and international level."
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Hanoi , November 13 (VNA) President of the Vietnam Fatherland Front (VFF) Central Committee Nguyen Thien Nhan has extended his best wishes to Cao Dai dignitaries and followers on the occasion of their 91 st founding anniversary.
In his congratulatory message, Nhan wrote the Cao Dai followers have raised the patriotism and solidarity to work with people from all social strata to defend the country over the past 91 years.
Besides implementing the Partys guidelines and the States laws, the Cao Dai churches have actively engaged in patriotic emulation campaigns, charitable activities, poverty reduction efforts, and rural development programmes, he said.
He called on the Cao Dai dignitaries and followers to strengthen solidarity and get involved in the campaign of building new-style rural areas and civilised urban areas launched by the VFF Central Committee.
The sect is also expected to make remarkable contributions to the countrys socio-economic development, environmental protection, and climate change response as well as social welfare activities and protection of national sovereignty and territorial integrity, he added.
Founded in 1926 in Tay Ninh province, Cao Dai is one of the major religions in Vietnam with over 2.5 million followers, 10,000 dignitaries and 1,000 places of worship.
The religion worships the Divine Eye, known as the eye of heaven and a symbol of its supreme being.
VNA/VNP
Workers process wood products at SAHABAK Joint Stock Company in Bac Kan Provinces Thanh Binh Industrial Zone. VNA/VNS Photo Danh Lam
HA NOI Viet Nam will continue its reform to improve business and investment environment to support enterprises and negotiate other agreement whether US president-elect Donald Trump thwarts the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) or not, according to the Minister of Trade and Industry Tran Tuan Anh.
Donald Trump, who opposes the TPP trade pact, has won the US presidential election, and many experts said the Republican victory will put an end to this trade agreement.
The Minister Tuan Anh told the press on the sideline of the ongoing National Assembly that Viet Nam was consistent with its point of view and pocily in the international integration. The TPP was one of the free trade deals Viet Nam agreed to participate in, but it will proceed with other free trade agreements (FTAs) to create opportunities for companies to fuel economic growth.
The minister said it was too early to predict the future of TPP, and Viet Nam is ready for integration with or without TPP.
If the TPP aggrement continues to be implemented favourably, it will bring many benefits to Viet Nam in many sectors. Viet Nams key export products like textile, garment, footwear, and seafood would likely gain breakthroughs in export value to the US, Japan and Canada. On the other hand, if the TPP was not approved, Viet Nam still has other export markets, Tuan Anh said.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh told Vietnam Summit 2016 in HCM City early this month that with Viet Nams signing the TPP agreement, the country hoped to tighten trade ties with Asia Pacific countries and create more business opportunities for Viet Nam and other TPP members.
Therefore, Viet Nam looks forwards to the ratification of the trade deal by all member countries, including the US.
He said if the TPP is not passed due to any reasons, it will be considered a setback, as countries spent much time and effort on the negotiation process. He however also noted that besides the TPP, Viet Nam has concluded FTAs with many other partners like the European Union (EU) and the Eurasia Economic Union.
Viet Nam and other ASEAN nations are preparing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership FTAs. In addition, members of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation forum are negotiating a FTA in the region.
Also at the summit , Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade o Thang Hai said 10 FTAs including Viet Nam as a signatory had come into force. One FTA will become into effect soon and several others are on the negotiating table.
Hai stressed that with or without the trade deal, Viet Nams economic policy towards international integration will remain unchanged.
Hai said before negotiating the TPP, Viet Nam had taken part in multilateral organizations such as the World Trade Organization (WTO). Viet Nams business environment has been improved and the nation has stepped up investment restructuring, encouraged the private sector and strengthened management of public debt to pursue sustainable growth.
According to economist Ngo Tri Long, in the global trend, no country can stand alone. Viet Nam should prepare the best plan to deal with worst senarios and should not totally depend on the TPP.
In another development, Japans lower house of parliament on Thursday passed the contentious free trade deal.
President Barack Obama championed the 12-nation deal saying it would enable the United States to set the global trade agenda in the face of Chinese increasing economic clout.
Besides Japan and the US, the TPP includes 10 other countries: Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Viet Nam. If it came into full force it would account for an enormous 40 per cent of the global economy.
After approval in the lower house of parliament, the TPP will automatically take effect after 30 days, even if the Upper House does not vote for it. VNS
The opening ceremony of the Viet Nam technology startup festival (TechFest Vietnam 2016) took place in Ha Noi on Saturday. Photo vtv.vn
HA NOI Deputy Prime Minister Vu uc am has urged ministries and sectors to conduct specific activities to carry out the Governments policies to encourage business startups.
Creating such enterprises is considered an opportunity for Viet Nam to speed up its growth and narrow development gaps with other countries.
The deputy minister made his statement at the opening ceremony of the Viet Nam technology startup festival (TechFest Vietnam 2016) on Saturday.
The two-day event, which took place in Ha Noi, is held annually by the Ministry of Science and Technology.
The event gathered partners in the startup ecosystem, state agencies, investors, the startup supporting community and new startup groups.
Along with the significant risks associated with new businesses, startups also have the high potential of producing valuable products with strong competitiveness, he said, adding that the Government has designed various support policies for the startup community.
Meanwhile, Minister of Science and Technology Chu Ngoc Anh noted that in the wake of the trend and potential of technology and innovative enterprises, the Party and State have focused on the expansion of the science-technology market and encouraged creative startups.
Viet Nams stable creativity index in the past two years has lifted the country to rank among top ASEAN countries in the field, said the minister, pointing out that the development of the science-technology market has yet to match the full potential of domestic supply and demand sources.
He also noted that the young startup ecosystem is promising, attracting the regional startup community with an increasing number of investors and business incubators, along with more completed legal corridors for startup activities.
In the future, the ministry plans to work more closely with other ministries, sectors and startup organisations to assist startups at home and abroad to connect components of the ecosystem and learn from the international startup community, he said.
The 2012-16 period saw a flourishing of startups, with a considerable rise in both quantity and quality of incubators. Currently, the country has 1,800 startup enterprises, along with 21 incubators and seven business accelerators.
TechFest Vietnam 2016 attracted some 2,000 participants, including 100 Vietnamese and foreign investors and 100 startup enterprises.
A number of activities will also be held to connect domestic and international investors with startups, honour outstanding startup firms and link Vietnamese startup ecosystems with international ecosystems.
Moreover, startup firms will also have the chance to recruit human resources from 200 applicants attending the event. - VNS
HA NOI Vietnam National Oil and Gas Group, or PetroVietnam, has proposed to add the construction of the Nhon Trach 3 and 4 thermal power plants to plans for national electricity development.
This was reported by the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
According to the proposal, the two power plants, each with the production capacity of 750-800 MW, are designed to be constructed on the total area of some 34ha in the Ong Keo Industrial Park in Nhon Trach District in the southern province of ong Nai.
The Nhon Trach 3 power plant will occupy nearly 16.6ha, while the second power plant will be spread over an area of 17.4ha (excluding the complex area, surface water and public service buildings).
Following PetroVietnams proposal, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has requested the oil group to make a supplementary report on the compatibility of the power plant construction with the development plan of the Ong Keo IP and with land use zoning and planning of the locality approved by the competent authority.
The ministry also said construction must comply with water resource legislation.
The oil and gas group must prepare an updated report on the current state of water exploitation and use of the Nhon Trach Power Centre and calculate the water demand of the power plants and supply capacity of the water resource.
The group is also required to make an additional plan for prevention and control of pollution, degradation and depletion of water resources during construction.
As the project is located at the confluence of ong Tranh and Long Tau in the ong Nai river system, construction activities must comply with the law on the water resources protection corridor. The two power plants are required to build a centre for collection and sewage treatment.
In addition, PetroVietnam will have to report the current state of the air and water environment in the construction area. If its proposal is approved, the oil group is requested to provide an environmental impact assessment report to the competent authority for approval.
Earlier, the Ministry of Industry and Trade finalised the investment plan for Nhon Trach 3 and 4 plants as part of efforts to deal with power shortage after 2020, especially in the southern region.
PetroVietnams Nhon Trach 2 plant began commercial operation in 2011 with the capacity of 750 MW and productivity of 5.5 billion kWh per year. The 450KW Nhon Trach 1 plant, which began operation in 2008, generates 2.5 billion kWh per year. VNS
HA NOI Viet Nam Competition Authority has revoked the licences of 14 multi-level marketing firms and forced 11 others to halt business until November, Vietnam News Agency reported.
The authority, under the Ministry of Trade and Industry, reported that at present, there were 42 multi-level marketing firms that were trading nationwide, a decrease of 25 since 2015.
According to the authority, sales activities of these multi-level marketing firms were being disguised recently, affecting the business models participants.
The multi-level marketing (MLM) business model, referred to as a pyramid scheme, is a legitimate but controversial marketing strategy in which the sales force is compensated not only for the sales they generate, but also for the sales of the other salespeople they recruit.
The competition authority found that common violations of MLM firms involved taking advantage of the multi-level method for illegal financial services trade or for unlawfully raising money.
In addition, many unlicensed firms were stealthily trading to raise money from innocent participants, aiming at making illicit profits.
Facing with the situation, the Ministry of Trade and Industry has this year focused on implementing urgent measures to enhance the effective management of multi-level sale activities. This included promulgation of Direction No. 02 on strengthening inspection, supervision and tackling violations of multi-level sale activities. The inspection has essentially controlled the spread of multi-level sale activities.
The ministry penalised 64 of total 65 violation cases of multi-level marketing firms from June, 2015 to November, 2016, seizing VN11 billion in fines.
Additionally, 37 provincial departments of trade and industry penalised 21 multi-level marketing firms for 65 violations, fining them VN4 billion.
To improve efficiency of the state management, the ministry asked relevant state offices to actively contribute to the draft of amendment decree 42, which is expected to be promulgated late this year or early next year.
The amendment decree will make multi-level sale activities transparent and improve the competence of provincial management offices for multi-level sale activities.
Next year, the ministry will continue inspecting and supervising multi-level sale activities and will coordinate with Ministry of Public Securities to supplement regulations on criminals related to the business model.
The ministry reported that over the first six months of this year, revenue from multi-level sale activities of firms reached VN4 trillion, of which VN1.8 trillion came from foreign-invested firms and the rest came from domestic firms.
These firms paid VN712 billion in commission money and other bonus services to participants involved in the business model.
In the first six months, the number of participants was some 500,000, a decline of 57 per cent against the same period in 2015. Multi-level marketing firms paid taxes totalling VN453 billion.
Goods traded by the mode of multi-level sale activities were mainly functional foods (51.27 per cent), cosmetics (31.65 per cent) and household appliances (12.33 per cent). VNS
HA NOI Local shares declined yesterday on the two national stock exchanges as foreign investors increased selling caused by uncertainty on the fate of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).
The benchmark VN-Index, the measure of 314 stocks on the HCM Stock Exchange, edged down 0.9 per cent to close at 673.1 points. The index had gained 1.9 per cent last week.
On the Ha Noi Stock Exchange, the HNX-Index tracking 377 stocks inched down 0.3 per cent to 80.9 points. It increased 0.9 per cent in the previous week.
Foreign investors were net sellers in HCM Citys market yesterday for a total value of VN272 billion (US$12.2 million). They sold shares worth VN522 billion, making up 21.2 per cent of total trading value in the market, while picking up only VN250 billion worth of net buy value.
Heavy selling pressure dragged down stock prices of large-cap companies. Private equity business Masan Group (MSN) plunged 4 per cent. Dairy giant Vinamilk (VNM) slipped 2.6 per cent. Real estate developer VinGroup (VIC) fell 2.5 per cent and lender BIDV (BID) decreased 2.2 per cent.
Of the top 30 largest shares by market capitalisation, only seven advanced and up to 23 stocks tumbled.
Traders were uncertainty about the fate of Trans-Pacific Partnership after the Obama administration suspended the trade deal, stock analysts at FPT Securities Company wrote in a report.
The destiny of TPP will depend on newly-elected US President Donald Trump and Republican lawmakers who were not in favour of the deal, in which Viet Nam is reportedly the biggest beneficiary.
Overall market condition was negative when the number of losing stocks outnumbered that of gaining ones by 246-188. Another 257 closed unchanged.
On the bright side, FAROS Construction Corporation (ROS) hit the daily limit rise of 7 per cent to VN116,200, roughly 10 times higher than the starting price on the floating day on October 14.
Investors bet on mineral and coal shares following sharp rises in prices of black gold in the global markets.
Coal prices have begun to recover since early this year after more than eight years of decline. As of November, coal price has increased by 112 per cent, the best performer this year compared with other energy commodities.
Local coal shares hit the ceiling prices of 7-10 per cent yesterday, including Vinacomin Nui Beo Coal (NBC), Vinacomin Coc Sau Coal (TC6), Vinacomin - Ha Tu Coal (THT) and Bac Giang Exploitable Mineral (BGM).
Liquidity increased with a total of 159.6 million shares worth VN 2.8 trillion traded in the two markets, up 38.8 per cent in volume and 47.4 per cent in value compared to the previous sessions levels. VNS
NEW YORK - Leon Russell, who achieved rare fame as a session musician by playing with artists from The Rolling Stones to Elton John and pursuing his own eclectic career, has died. He was 74.
Russell, who remained active and had tour dates in front of him, died in his sleep at his home in Nashville, his wife said in a statement Sunday without further details.
Born in Oklahoma, Russell mastered the piano as a child and soaked up a variety of musical influences from country to rhythm and blues to gospel.
By 14, he was singing pop standards in Oklahoma nightclubs and at 17 he took a Greyhound bus to Los Angeles, seeking out music gigs.
He eventually became a leader of the so-called Wrecking Crew of top-notch session musicians in Los Angeles who recorded with top artists.
Key collaborations throughout his long career included The Rolling Stones, Beatle George Harrison, Willie Nelson, Frank Sinatra, Doris Day, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton and the Beach Boys.
With his long beard, top hat and lively, blues-infused piano playing, Russell was instantly identifiable at concerts.
One of his most famous performances came at the The Concert for Bangladesh, the 1971 charity show in New York led by Harrison, in which Russell led the house band and rocked out on an energetic medley that started with the Stones Jumpin Jack Flash.
By the late 1960s, Russell also became a successful songwriter, starting with Joe Cockers Delta Lady, and co-founded his own label, Shelter Records.
He organized Cockers 1970s Mad Dogs and Englishmen tour, considered pioneering at the time by bringing together top musicians, but keeping the schedule loose so they did not need to commit full-time.
Russell eventually faded from the spotlight, traveling as a country artist under the name Hank Wilson.
He re-emerged in a major way when he collaborated with Elton John on the 2010 Grammy-nominated double album The Union.
Russell said that he had been struggling to get bookings when John unexpectedly called his former rock pianist at home, where Russell was watching television, and proposed working together.
"Thats why I tell people he came and found me in a ditch by the side of the highway of life," Russell told the magazine of AARP, the US organization for senior citizens.
Russell was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011. AFP
Nguyen Khanh Quang, deputy head of the General Department of Customs, talks to the Viet Nam News Agency about measures to block cross-border cigarette smuggling.
What are your comments on cigarette smuggling activities in the first 10 months of this year?
I should say cigarette trafficking and smuggling activities along the border provinces, from the north to the south, have become a hot issue for our anti-smuggling forces. Smugglers activities are diverse, so are their tactics. The most popular smuggled cigarettes are Triple 5, Marlboro, Jet, Esse, Hero, Chinese cigarettes and tobacco materials.
The smugglers have deployed quite diverse tactics in their transportation, including close surveillance of our anti smuggling forces. In the southern border provinces of Long An, ong Thap, An Giang and others, they have even used power boats to transport goods. If detected by anti-smuggling forces, smugglers have resorted to all means to flee and avoid arrest. In worst cases, they have asked their local accomplices to fight back against law enforcement officers.
What has the General Department of Customs done to deter such smuggling crimes?
Under the instruction of the Prime Minister issued on September 30, 2014, the General Department of Customs (GDC) has ordered all municipal and pprovincial customs departments to increase their daily patrols and inspection activities, particularly at the border gates and border routes.
In addition, they have asked customs officers to co-ordinate with other agencies, including the Market Watch forces, police and local administrations.
On special occasions, like the Lunar New Year, the anti-smuggling forces have launched operations to deter smuggling activities.
We have also launched communication campaigns to raise peoples awareness about cigarette smuggling and asked them to join the fight.
In the first 10 months of this year, Customs forces with support from other anti-smuggling forces, have detected and seized 55,600 kg of cigarette materials and 579,747 cigarette packets
What challenges are the anti-smuggling forces facing?
As we all know, most of our border topography is very complicated. The steep, earth roads, particularly during the monsoon season, are very treacherous and pose difficulties for law enforcement officers in their operations.
In addition, most of the people living along the border line are very poor. They dont have stable jobs. Thats the key reason they become cross-border transporters for smugglers or informants for them. Our law doesnt have any sanction mechanism against people who work as informants against the interest of the general public.
Nowadays, smugglers are very malicious and they are ready to counter-attack law enforcement officers in case they are detected or arrested. This has become a headache for us in the fight against cross-border smuggling.
The Lunar New Year the biggest festival of the Vietnamese people is coming soon. Does the GDC have any plan to deter the cross-border cigarette activities at that time?
Well develop detailed activities for anti smuggling law enforcement officers, particularly those stationed at border checkpoints as we approach the Lunar New Year festival.
Weve instructed all city and provincial customs departments to increase their activities, particularly collection of information in key areas as well as developing specific plans to foil smuggling.
To facilitate cross-border checks, well open training courses for customs officers and provide them with good facilities to perform their jobs quickly and efficiently. We vow to stop cigarette smuggling right at the border gate and adjacent areas.
Last but not least, we try to ask the Government and local governments to develop economic activities for residents along the border. We consider this to be very important; if they have stable jobs and sustainable income, they will not work as transporters for the smugglers. VNS
HA NOI Lawmakers adopted a resolution on the 2017 State budget with 82.15 per cent of yes votes during the on-going second meeting of the 14th National Assembly (NA) yesterday.
Per the resolution, total central budget collection is estimated at over VN729.7 trillion (US$32.7 billion) while collection at the local level is set at VN482.4 trillion ($21.6 billion).
Total budget spending will be over VN902 trillion ($40.4 billion), of which an estimated VN254.6 trillion ($11.4 billion) will be allocated to local budgets.
The NA asked the Government to task each ministry, office and locality with budget collection and spending in line with the Law on State budget and the resolution.
The Government must guide ministries, sectors and localities to distribute development investment capital with priority given to major national programmes and projects, and official development assistance and public private partnership projects.
The National Assembly Standing Committee, the NA Finance-Budget Committee and the NA Council of Ethnic Affairs are responsible for supervising State budget allocation for ministries, sectors and local Peoples Committees and Peoples Councils.
Later the same day, NA deputies discussed draft amendments to the Law on Irrigation.
Most deputies agreed with the need to issue the law for better management of irrigation works, which play a vital role in agricultural production, providing water for the daily activities of the locals and other economic sectors, along with being a key measure for disaster prevention and control.
However, some deputies said the compiling board should propose policies encouraging investment in irrigation works and make clear the responsibilities of relevant ministries and agencies in managing irrigation works.
They asked the compiling board to research and review related policies, guidelines and related laws to avoid overlapping between laws.
Some deputies, including Thach Phuoc Binh from southern Tra Vinh province and Nguyen Thi Ngoc Lan from northern Bac Ninh province, said the law should have specific regulations to encourage the participation of locals in planning, building and supervising the operation of irrigation works.
Their discussion also focused on the laws new regulation on the price of irrigation services, which will replace existing irrigation fees in line with the current Law on Price.
First hearing begins
The 14th NA is slated to begin a question & answer session today, which will be broadcast live on national television and radio.
During the hearing sessions, the Ministers of Industry and Trade, Natural Resources and Environment, Education and Training, and Home Affairs will field questions on issues of public concern.
Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc will deal with lawmakers questions about his handling of issues under discussion.
Before the Q&A, the NA will hear a report on the parliaments monitoring of the handling of petitions that voters sent to the 11th session of the 13th NA.
This is the first time the 14th NA has conducted a Q&A. - VNS
HCM CITY Despite difficulties in its implementation, Viet Nam is utterly resolute in its plan to scale up the number of facilities that provide voluntary and diversified services of treatment to 200,000 drug addicts by 2020.
Our principle is to use many different methods of drug addiction treatment, but aiming toward voluntary treatment, Deputy Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs Nguyen Trong am said at conference to collect opinions for a draft of a decree on voluntary treatment for addicts held late last week.
Addicts, who are brought to establishments providing compulsory treatment, fail in voluntary community-based treatment, am said.
The push to boost drug rehabilitation solutions comes amid several recent high-profile escapes by patients at compulsory rehab facilities. Last month, about 600 patients broke out of a facility in ong Nai Province. Government authorities said some facilities suffer from overcrowding, a lack of staff and poor conditions.
"The facility was designed for 800 addicts, but now admits more than 1,400," said Ho Van Loc, deputy head of the ong Nai Provinces Department of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs.
am said that many provinces and cities focus on bringing addicts to compulsory facilities and when these facilities become degraded over time, "escaping is unavoidable."
He instructed them to carefully select which addicts should receive community-based treatment and which ones should go to compulsory facilities.
The government has sought to diversify treatment services and scale up voluntary treatment in community to reduce compulsory treatment, he added.
Regarding the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs plan for the development of rehabilitation establishments for drug addicts from now to 2020, the number of rehabilitation facilities that provide compulsory treatment for addicts will be reduced to 71 by 2020, and will serve just 20,000 addicts from 67,000 in 2015.
The plan aims to convert the remaining 52 rehabilitation facilities which provide compulsory treatment into those which provide voluntary treatment.
Thirty private rehabilitation facilities providing voluntary treatment are expected to be built by 2020.
About 22 private establishments have been provided licences during the last 14 years. Five of them have stopped operation.
Dr Khuat Thi Hai Oanh, head of the Center for Supporting Community Development Initiatives, said that scaling up voluntary and diversified services for drug addiction treatment is a common trend in the world, especially in developed countries.
These countries do not provide compulsory treatment for addicts.
The country should focus investment in the services at facilities and the community, Oanh suggested.
Difficulties ahead
According to Dr Nguyen Huu Khanh Duy, head of Thanh a Rehabilitation Centre in HCM City, Vietnamese addicts dont often volunteer for treatment.
Nguyen Thi Hong Phuong, head of Drug Addiction Treatment and Counselling Centre in the citys Binh Thanh District, said: Many addicts are brought to the centre by their family.
The addicts themselves dont come voluntarily, Phuong added.
In the last year, for example, nine of 63 provinces and cities made plans for voluntary community-based treatment for addicts, but no addict registered for the services, according to the central Department of Social Evil Prevention.
It is difficult for addicts to be treated at voluntary rehabilitation facilities because drug trading still exists, she said, adding they are easily seduced.
Financial assistance for addicts to receive voluntary treatment is not as the same as those who are brought to facilities providing compulsory treatment, she said.
According to the central Department of Prevention for Social Evils, the time for addicts receive voluntary treatment is not flexible.
There is no treatment programme specifically designed for each addict.
The government should have preferential policies to encourage the private sector to set up more rehabilitation facilities.
Duy of the Thanh a Rehabilitation Centre said that his facility still has yet directly benefited from the preferential policies.
The ministry plans to issue new regulations on voluntary treatment to make it more effective and solve these difficulties. The draft regulations were collected opinions from relevant agencies at provinces and cities at the conference.
Le Van Khanh, deputy head of the central Department of Prevention for Social Evils, said that the country has seen an increase of drug addicts this year as of June, with 2,470 more compared to last year.
There were 202,604 addicts in Viet Nam as of June, Khanh said. Among drugs, cocaine addiction has had the highest increase in the number in the last several years.
The number of addicts brought to rehabilitation facilities was 14,437, an increase of nearly 10,000 compared to last year.
Of the 14,437 addicts, 4,015 do not have a stable residence.
More than 50 per cent of addicts who were brought to rehabilitation facilities use amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS). They have severe mental disorders and do not know what they are doing.
They also do actions which cause harm to their health and even suicide.
The provinces with the high proportion of addicts using ATS are ong Nai (82 per cent), a Nang (85 per cent) and An Giang (76 per cent).
According to the central Department of Social Evil Prevention, the voluntary services of treatment were provided to nearly 55,000 addicts at 110 public drug addiction facilities between 2000 and 2015.
Moreover, community or family-based voluntary services of drug addiction treatment have been provided to addicts since 2010.
However, these services are not provided in many provinces and cities, leading to difficulties for addicts to voluntarily receive treatment in the community. VNS
HA NOI Ha Nois investigative agency began legal proceedings against Nguyen Dieu Linh, owner of the karaoke bar at No. 68 Tran Thai Tong Street in Cau Giay district, where 13 customers were killed by a fire on November 1.
The proceedings were also taken against Le Thi Thi, head of a company in charge of renovation work for the karaoke bar, and welder Hoang Van Tuan. Both are currently being detained.
The three have been charged with violating regulations on fire prevention and safety.
The police earlier confirmed that carelessness by Tuan, who is a free-lancer working without a professional licence, was one of the main causes behind the karaoke bar fire.
It took more than seven hours for firefighters to extinguish the fire.
Nguyen Dieu Linh, from Ha ong Districts Van Quan, said she hired the building for ten years from July this year to July 2026 to run a karaoke service business.
Linh then signed a contract with the Thiien An Phu Investment Join-stock Company based in Hoan Kiem Districts Phuc Tan Ward to design and install fire fighting accessories for the bar.
The design and installation plan for fire fighting was licensed by the local police on October 13, and the company started implementation right away.
By October 31, about 90 per cent of the plan had been finished, except a connection for the operation of the fire fighting system, the investigation revealed.
The implementation of the bars firefighting system plan had not been completed, but the bar owner still let customers use the room on the second floor on the day when the fire occurred.VNS
Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong meets local residents yesterday in Phat Tich Commune of Tien Du District, northern Bac Ninh Province. VNA/VNS Photo Tri Dung
BAC NINH A celebration of the great national unity bloc and the 86th anniversary of the Viet Nam Fatherland Front (VFF) was held yesterday in Phat Tich Commune of Tien Du District, northern Bac Ninh Province.
At the event, which was also attended by Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and President of the VFF Central Committee Nguyen Thien Nhan, local residents were reminded of the development of the Viet Nam National United Front the VFFs predecessor founded by the Communist Party of Viet Nam and then President Ho Chi Minh on November 18, 1930.
Under different names over the past 86 years, the Front has brought into play Viet Nams traditional unity and patriotism and gathered people from all strata to defeat invaders and retake national independence.
Speaking to residents in Phat Tich, Party General Secretary Trong praised the solidarity, efforts and achievements that the local Party committees, administration, VFF chapter and people have obtained.
He highlighted local improved infrastructure, more industrial parks, good economic growth, stable social situation, and rising per capita income. Various activities have also been organised in response to VFF-launched movements.
He underscored the VFFs significance to the national unity as seen through various initiatives today such as the great national unity festival, or movements calling for peoples joint efforts to practise civilised lifestyles, and build new-style rural areas and civilised cities.
The Party chief also sent congratulations to VFF staff nationwide on the occasion the great national unity festival.
During his stay in Phat Tich Commune, he offered incense and planted trees at Phat Tich Pagoda, a national historical and cultural relict site of special importance.
On the same day, Truong Thi Mai, head of the Party Central Committees Commission for Mass Mobilisation, attended a similar ceremony held in Vinh Phuc Province.
Speaking to authorities and people of the province at the event in Van Giua Village, Van Hoi Commune, Tam Duong District, Mai said it would require the efforts of the whole community to tackle common issues.
She also called on every resident of the locality to continue to contribute to the building of a civilised rural environment free of social evils. VNS
A grand requiem for traffic accident victims was held yesterday at Trinh Pagoda in the Yen Tu national relic site, northern Quang Ninh Province, with a view to easing the bereaved families pains of losing their relatives. Photo tuoitre.vn
QUANG NINH A grand requiem for traffic accident victims was held yesterday at Trinh Pagoda in the Yen Tu national relic site, northern Quang Ninh Province, with a view to easing the bereaved families pains of losing their relatives.
With the participation of nearly 10,000 Buddhists and other attendees, the function was held by the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha and the National Committee for Traffic Safety as part of activities in response to the World Day in Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims (the third Sunday of November).
At the requiem, Minister of Transport Truong Quang Nghia urged all central and local relevant agencies, organisations and people to improve their road sense and adherence to traffic safety regulations.
He also asked them to share the losses suffered by the victims and their families, thereby treasuring the happiness when traffic safety is ensured.
The Traffic Safety Year 2016 is the fifth year Viet Nam has responded to the UN General Assemblys call for activities to be organised towards the World Day in Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims.
From January to August this year, 13,612 traffic accidents occurred nationwide, claiming 5,728 lives and wounding 11,781 others. VNS
Pham Hoang Nam
HCM City -- Overseas Vietnamese are an inseparable part of Viet Nam and though they live abroad, their hearts are always with the country, a delegation heard at the third overseas Vietnamese conference, which closed on yesterday in HCM City.
Speaking at a conference themed "Overseas Vietnamese join hands in quick and sustainable development and international integration of HCM City, Primer Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc said he was highly appreciative of the enthusiasm of overseas Vietnamese contributing to the development of HCM City.
Your presence here today confirms a sacred fact that Viet Nams potential is not only within our country but all around the world where Viet kieu live and work, he said.
Viet Nam warmly welcomes all Viet kieu who would like to contribute to the country, he added.
Overseas Vietnamese business, investment, finance, technology and science co-operation have become important resources to the development of the country and in the new period of development, the country needs more contribution from overseas Vietnamese from all around the world, Deputy Primer Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh said.
However, Viet kieus contribution to the development of HCM City is not equivalent to their intelligence potential, international business experience and huge finance resources. We would like to promote all of their potential, Nguyen Thanh Phong, chairman of the HCM City Peoples Committee said.
Over 500 Vietnamese national residents from 36 countries and territories attended the two-day event which started on Saturday.
During the conference, they focused on the citys sustainable development, human resources, science-technology development, economics and trade and service investment.
Nguyen uc Khuong, Finance Professor at the IPAG Business School in Paris, discussed three challenges that HCM City has been facing, including: high speed of change in technology, knowledge and economics; fluctuating financial markets; a sharp reduction of natural resources and climate change.
To cope with the situation, HCM City authorities must create a policy that can mobilise all economic sectors to contribute to the development of the city; increase human resources with professional skills and responsibility toward society and environment; and study and apply the digital economy to efficiently save all resources, he said.
This is a sound material-cycle society based on the principle of Reduce Reuse Recycle, he added.
Nguyen o Dung, an overseas Vietnamese in Singapore and member of the Viet Nam Initiative Group, stressed three factors that can help boost development of the city; a clean and orderly government, meritocracy and a flexible institutional structure.
A strong government must have good development policies and smart master planning to create an open and knowledge society, he said.
HCM City authorities so far have already had a vision but it is not really good as restructuring is not flexible and has limited authorisation.
The city should release and maintain long-term policies, open co-operation with neighbouring provinces to compete with international competitors, he said.
Particularly, Dung pointed out that the city should make challenges into opportunities.
HCM City leaders should think about the city having a lot of ponds that can solve the current seriously flooding. Traffic congestion will be opportunities for investors to find solutions, he said.
Lets make a master plan for sea, create more green space and a friendly environment for residents, more open, more creative; create trust between each other: authorities believe in business and in return, people trust each other. All that makes a city become a place thats worth living and working in, he said.
An open society, open economy, open data, open gateway for the region: these are all things the city must do to reach a new level of development, Dung added.
Dr Pham o Chi from the US, an economic expert for the IMF from 1994 2001, warned that Viet Nam and HCM City must face that bad debt in the banking sector could be 10 per cent to 15 per cent, much higher than the officially announced number of 3 per cent and public debt could be 106 per cent of GDP, nearly double the 65 per cent of the official announcement.
To solve these two bad figures, private enterprises should be free to do business in a fair environment. Viet Nam did a miracle in the past when leaders decided to renovate the economy in 1986 and now is the time for the second renovation, he said.
Many overseas Vietnamese suggested creating a connection through the Internet by sending their contributions and suggestions for different aspects of live to HCM City authorities regularly.
According to the Overseas Vietnamese Affairs Committee under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, more than 4.5 million Vietnamese nationals are residing in over 100 countries and territories around the globe. Of the total, more than 400,000 are working at research institutions and universities in developed countries.
HCM City is the economic hub of Viet Nam with the largest number of Vietnamese living and working abroad.
The city has received the highest volume of overseas remittances, investment and contribution by overseas Vietnamese experts and intellectuals.
Overseas remittances could hit around US$10 billion this year. To date, Vietnamese abroad have invested in approximately 2,000 projects with an estimated capitalisation of $6 billion.
The first and second conferences were hosted in 2009 and 2012, respectively.
This was the first conference organised for HCM City to step into a new development level. VNS
HA NOI Deputy Prime Minister Vu uc am yesterday joined some 500 students in cleaning up the area around Ha Nois Linh am Lake.
The activity is part of the programme Be nice to Environment" launched by youth unions of central government offices and the Youth Connecting Club to mark World Kindness Day on November 13.
Supporting the programme, the deputy PM called on young people to engage more in good deeds and activities for the community and the society.
He said environmental protection activities should not merely be undertaken during campaigns, but regularly be organised to create a routine among the youth.
World Kindness Day is celebrated internationally on November 13. It was introduced in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement, a coalition of nations NGOs. It is observed in many countries, including Canada, Japan, Australia, Nigeria and United Arab Emirates.
This year, Viet Nam marks World Kindness Day with a campaign named Dance for the Kindness in Ha Noi and other localities nationwide. Thousands of youngsters, including celebrities, joined a flash mob and drew pictures around Hoan Kiem Lake. VNS
NINH THUAN Sea grape cultivation model has brought economic sizeale benefits to the central province of Ninh Thuan.
Thanks to sea grapes easy cultivation and maintenance on otherwise abandoned shrimp ponds, low initial investment and especially high value exports, many households have overcome poverty.
Six households in Ninh Hai District are piloting cultivation of sea grapes on a total area of 15ha, with encouraging initial results.
The most successful model among these households is of Tran Hung, a resident of Khanh Hai Town. With just 4ha of area to cultivate sea grapes, on average, he collects some 60kg, which he can sell at markets for VN50,000 (US$2.2) per kg. Annually, he can make a profit upwards of VN1 billion ($44,770).
According to Nguyen Van Thach, from the economic and planning department of Khanh Hai Town, sea grapes can be planted right on the seabed, the ponds bottom or in "net bags" floating in the ocean, which is economically efficient, especially in areas that do not witness frequent storms or strong winds. Some households even cultivate this seaweed in cement pools filled with seawater.
Depending on the ponds area, lining materials, water source, lighting directions, etc., initial investment for an average pond (3000 square metres) stands at some VN50-70 million ($2,200-3130).
Ninh Thuan Province possesses ideal conditions to grow sea grapes, Pham Ngoc Thuong, chairman of Khanh Hai Town Peoples Committee, asserted. With its economic benefits and easy care, sea grapes can be a good direction to expand, he said.
In addition, sea grapes can improve aquaculture environment quality since they develop quickly, have strong anabolism and high nutrition uptake. They can be grown simultaneously while cultivating shrimps and fish this intercropping allows two to three times higher income compared with shrimp or fish cultivation alone.
Sea grapes are a highly nutritious plant that can be used as a substitute for green vegetables. Sea grapes contain high quantities of protein and minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium, as well as iodine, iron and vitamin A, which help prevent malnutrition and anemia.
Sea grapes are especially in high demand in markets such as Japan, South Korea, China and Malaysia, making it a promising export.
With these advantages, Khanh Hai Town authorities are planning to provide farmers with guidance, consulting and training sessions on cultivation techniques and food safety regulations.
Another priority is to find purchase partners to ensure farmers output and to develop sea grapes sustainable for peoples livelihoods. VNS
KHANH HOA - The eighth International Conference on the East Sea (South China Sea), themed "Cooperation for Regional Security and Development," opened in the central coastal city of Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa Province yesterday.
The conference, jointly held by the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam (DAV), the Foundation for East Sea Studies and the Viet Nam Lawyers Association, brings together nearly 200 delegates, including close to 60 foreign scholars.
Amidst notable developments in the East Sea during the past year, the conference offers an opportunity for domestic and foreign scholars and researchers to share information and assess the recent developments in the sea as well as their repercussions, while discussing possibilities for further cooperation in the region.
Nearly 30 reports will be presented through the course of the two-day conference, comprised of seven thematic sessions focusing on the historical perspective of the cause of disputes in the East Sea, international law and the East Sea, political economy, security, politics and diplomacy regarding the waters, interactions and coordination at sea, and mechanisms for tension management in the East Sea.
Through discussions, the delegates will seek opportunities and initiatives to promote understanding and cooperation in the East Sea in the spirit of principles of international law.
A special session will be held for the first time for representatives of naval and law enforcement forces of relevant countries, who will discuss interaction and coordination field measures in order to avoid unexpected clashes and boost maritime cooperation.
As part of the conference, the annual Young Leaders Programme will gather eight young researchers and PhD candidates from seven countries, aiming to build a network of young researchers on the East Sea issue in the hope they contribute fresh views on how to step up cooperation for peace and development in the sea.
In his opening remarks, Assoc. Prof. Dr Nguyen Vu Tung, Director of the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam, said tensions in the region have shown no signs of cooling down in 2016, as conflicts and changes of the status quo continue.
As examples, he cited dangerous clashes between fishing boats and law enforcement ships near the Truong Sa (Spratly) archipelago and especially the Hoang Sa (Paracel) archipelago, while island reclamation and militarisation in disputes areas are becoming increasingly complicated.
At the same time, the ocean environment in the region has degraded at an alarming rate, Tung added.
The scholar said he hopes the event will put forth initiatives to help concerned Governments coordinate with each other to improve security and common development in the East Sea, especially ideas aiming to build, consolidate and utilise regional security mechanisms to manage disputes and handle complex issues in the sea peacefully.
Le Thanh Quang, Secretary of the Khanh Hoa provincial Party Committee, expressed concerns about the East Sea situation, where competition sometimes has taken precedent over cooperation and where international law has not been respected at times and in some places. He worries this pattern will continue to undermine trust between countries in the region.
The situation poses an urgent need to seek a long-term solutions to the regional disputes and to form mechanisms that maintain order and law at sea, he said.
Attention should be paid to not only peace and stability, but also to issues regarding rights and obligations of the related parties, livelihoods of coastal residents and sustainability of the ocean ecology, he said.
On this occasion, a new website providing the latest research studies on maritime security, politics, economy and relevant laws was launched: https://maritimeissues.com. VNS
HA NOI The war against smuggling, trade fraud and counterfeit goods will be enhanced in the final months of this year, ahead of Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday.
This was revealed at a dialogue held yesterday to seek measures to combat smuggling.
Participants stressed that smuggling has become more complicated and expanded to all routes, including road, sea and air, posing great challenges in fighting the crime, particularly in hot spots such as border areas and remote mountainous areas.
Smuggled products included essential goods and products with high-tax and big differences between domestic and international prices, such as tobacco, alcohol, medicine, electronics, drugs, petrol, minerals and food products.
In the first ten months of the year, agencies uncovered 72,000 cases of smuggling, a year-on-year increase of two per cent.
Nguyen Xuan Bac, Deputy Head of the Department of Drug and Crime Prevention and Control, said the department would assign more officials to smuggling hot sports, increase co-ordination with relevant agencies such as police, customs and market watch forces and improve the skills of officials to detect rings.
Deputy Director of the General Department of Police ong ai Loc agreed that smuggling has become more complicated, particularly tobacco smuggling. Each year, police discovered about 4,000 cases of tobacco smuggling, with a total of 9 million packs of cigarettes.
He stressed that smuggling was often perpetrated by criminal rings outside the country. Smugglers often brought products to Viet Nams border and used tough terrain to smuggle products into Viet Nam such as rivers and tracks through forests and around mountains.
Many smugglers were equipped with weapons and willing to attack officials if they were caught, he said.
For the rest of the year, the department will focus on key areas such as border areas and key products such as petrol and tobacco in the fight against smuggling.
The department will also co-ordinate with authorised agencies to increase patrols and direct localities to urge locals not to work with smugglers.
Localities should also boost socio-economic development, creating jobs for locals so they have stable incomes and dont work with smugglers, he said.
Bac from the Department of Drug and Crime Prevention and Control said it was essential to strictly punish smugglers as a warning for others and increase co-operation with authorised agencies of neighbouring countries such as China and Laos.
Leaders of localities and relevant agencies should bear legal responsibility if smuggling was found in their areas, he said. - VNS
LONDON WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange faces questioning by prosecutors today at the Ecuadoran embassy in London in a twist in the long-running legal battle over a rape allegation against him.
An Ecuadoran prosecutor will quiz the founder of the secret-spilling website at the red-brick building where he has been holed up for more than four years, with Swedish prosecutor Ingrid Isgren and a Swedish police inspector also attending, officials said.
The 45-year-old Australian sought refuge in the central London embassy in June 2012 after Swedish prosecutors issued a European arrest warrant against him, over allegations of rape and sexual assault filed by two women who met Assange during a 2010 trip to Sweden.
He denied the claims, saying they were politically motivated, and insisting his sexual encounters with the two women were consensual.
He has refused to travel to Sweden for questioning, fearing he would be extradited to the United States over WikiLeaks release of 500,000 secret military files on the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Swedish prosecutors dropped the sexual assault probe last year after the five-year statute of limitations expired.
But they still want to question him about the 2010 rape allegation, which carries a 10-year statute of limitations.
A Swedish official source said the questioning was expected to begin at around 1000 GMT. The investigators intend to take a DNA sample, subject to his agreement.
"Its planned to last a few days," Assanges lawyer Per Samuelsson said, adding that it was too early to say what might arise from the meeting or what would be made public.
It will be the first time he has been interviewed over the matter since initial questioning by Swedish police at the time of the allegation.
Assange, speaking through his lawyer, has said he welcomes the "chance to clear his name" and hopes the investigation will subsequently close.
In May, a Swedish court reaffirmed the arrest order, rejecting the finding of a UN working group that his confinement in the Ecuadoran embassy amounted to arbitrary detention. AFP
Inside Secure a fait savoir ce lundi matin via un communique que France Brevets a conclu avec le fabricant de telephones mobiles HTC un accord de licence de brevets NFC (Near Field Communications), lequel lui confere une licence mondiale pour ses produits.
Entierement dirige par France Brevets et sa filiale NFC Technology LLC, le programme de licence de brevets NFC englobe des brevets NFC d'Inside Secure et d'Orange ainsi que des brevets acquis par France Brevets et par NFC Technology, LLC.
Avant ce nouvel accord de licence ont egalement ete signes un accord avec LG en 2014, avec Sony en mars dernier et avec Samsung en mai, a rappele Inside Secure.
Offre limitee. 2 mois pour 1 sans engagement
Je m'abonne
Les parties n'ont divulgue aucun detail financier relatif a l'accord de licence avec HTC.
Gilbert left her training and came straight to Roanoke, Virginia, where she has been a physician and trauma surgeon since the early 1980s. Gilbert served as the first medical director for Life-Guard, the first medical helicopter in Virginia.
She has weathered many changes to the health system, which was focused on hospitals in the early days, to a clinical model with Carilion Clinic, to now the beginnings of an academic medical center with robust residency programs, research, and the opening of the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine for its first class in 2010.
Already active in teaching through the surgical residency, Gilbert quickly got involved with the new medical school, helping with early curriculum development and implementation.
She has maintained an active faculty role since, serving as a facilitator for problem-based learning cases, engaging in innovative anatomy instruction, and observing students in clerkships.
Dr. Gilbert has achieved the profoundly rare status in her career where she is simultaneously an excellent mentor for students, a master clinician, a compassionate surgeon, an academic leader in resident and student education, and an advocate for all learners and patients, said Chris Reed, a 2016 graduate of the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and general surgery resident at Duke University.
Beyond her skills as a faculty physician, Gilbert earns high praise from students and peers for her compassion.
This was no more apparent than recently when she and I rounded together on a mutual patient in the ICU, said T.A. Lucktong, director of the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine surgery clerkship and associate professor. To help the patient's family better understand situation, she invited members to join us on rounds where she kindly and patiently explained each aspect of the patient's care as the team was discussing complex multi-system management.
Gilbert started this practice about five years ago to open up lines of communication with patients families.
I want the family to understand this is a group affair and they are part of the team, taking care of the patient just like we are, Gilbert said. I also send the students into the room to get the family. I want the family to see the student as bringing good things information is the most important thing to a family with a patient in the ICU.
Students and physicians also note Gilberts ability to inspire hope for patients and their families. Almost two decades ago, one of Gilberts patients was a 2-year-old boy who suffered a bad head injury. Another doctor told his mother the boy was unlikely to recover.
I told her in my experience, this is a very bad head injury. But the reason we are pursuing this is because I would love for in a year or two for you to bring him back and say, 'See what the difference is', Gilbert said.
The patient is now in his mid-20s and still calls Gilbert from time-to-time to catch up.
Our figures add up: Guy grilled over cheaper Vic public transport promise Opposition Leader Matthew Guy has faced a grilling on the first day of the Victorian election campaign over his party's ability to cost policies, with Labor claiming a key Liberal election promise is more than double the costed figure.
Government rules out one-off cash splash to fight rising cost of living Australians will not receive government cheques to relieve rising cost of living as Labor rule out a cash splash amid growing fears interest rates will continue to surge.
Taronga launches full review after lions escape and one cub is tranquilised An enclosure at Taronga Zoo will undergo a "full review" after a "significant incident" where five lions escaped, with one of the cubs shot with a tranquillizer gun hours before visitors were set to arrive.
IS families may not return to Victoria until after state election Details surrounding the return of wives and children of former Islamic State fighters to Victoria remains unclear, with suggestions a second group reportedly unlikely arrive until after the state election due to complexities of the cases.
CEDAR FALLS The Board of Education Monday will discuss proposed names for a planned new elementary school.
The board meets at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 220 Clay St.
Members of the public were invited to submit suggested names in September. Andy Pattee, Cedar Falls Community Schools superintendent, said a board subcommittee has since narrowed the ideas down to a list of four recommendations.
The school, with an estimated cost of $19.8 million, will be funded through a voter-approved taxpayer-supported bond issue. It will be located in southwest Cedar Falls near Erik Road west of Hudson Road.
In other business, the board will:
Consider the purchase of two used buses that had been leased.
Finalize the refinancing of sales tax revenue bonds at a cost of $15.6 million, saving an estimated $1.46 million. The board last month approved selling the outstanding bonds to Key Government Finance Inc., of Superior, Colo. On Monday, it will appoint the paying agent, bond registrar and transfer agent; authorize terms of issuance; and approve the tax exempt certificate.
CEDAR FALLS Lawmakers, who in the coming months will work through another state budget, voiced support Monday for a new Board of Regents initiative to plan two years out for tuition increases and urged regents to go even farther.
During a meeting in Cedar Falls of the Legislatures fiscal committee, co-chairman Rep. Pat Grassley, R-New Hartford, said he wants regents to help students budget four years ahead.
Its just looking at students having the ability to know what four years of education would cost, Grassley said. How do we get to that point? Is that where were trying to get right now? Because I think it should be.
Regents President Bruce Rastetter said it is, and the board has asked its university presidents to think how to get there.
Weve seen some different plans of that, he said. But that should be a natural goal of the regents.
Over the summer, the board debuted a forward-looking plan that envisions increasing resident undergraduate tuition rates 2 percent in each of the next two academic years while also seeking 2 percent increases in state money each year.
Nonetheless, tuition could go up more in the second year if state appropriations fall short of what the board wants.
The board next month is scheduled to consider final approval of tuition rates for the 2017-2018 school year, including the 2 percent bump for resident undergrads and higher increases for nonresident students and those pursuing academic programs that cost more to provide.
The board historically has discussed tuition and appropriations one year at a time, but late-running legislative sessions in recent years have prompted last-minute tuition increases across the university campuses.
Rep. Dave Jacoby, D-Coralville, was among lawmakers Monday who stressed the importance of avoiding surprises in helping families budget, reducing student debt and potentially improving four-year graduation rates.
I know youre asking for two years, but honest to gosh years three and four are probably what worries families even more, he said. So if theres a way the Board of Regents could actually look longitudinal at three years and four that would help immensely.
Rastetter said the two-year plan is a step toward that goal, but he acknowledged the difficulty of balancing university budgets that depend not only on tuition revenue but on appropriations, enrollment trends, fundraising and other factors.
One of our challenges is were dependent upon state appropriations, which I think all of us practically realize is dependent upon state revenue and the economy of Iowa, he said.
Because tuition rates depend on the number and type of students paying, regents and lawmakers closely track trends.
Regents Director of Institutional Research Jason Pontius told lawmakers Monday enrollment has been increasing, with record enrollment this year for the three regent universities combined, including record numbers at the University of Iowa and Iowa State University.
About 60 percent of the regent total 81,899 students are Iowa residents, with the rest coming from outside Iowa.
Pontius said the state Department of Education is projecting the number of high school graduates in Iowa will remain flat in the coming years, potentially affecting the universities growth.
Projections show slower growth in the coming decade about 6 percent more students are expected by 2026.
But lawmakers Monday noted many Iowans move away to get a degree or dont pursue higher education at all.
We need to stop the frame of reference that were competing against a fixed pool, when we have stats in front of us right now that show there are a lot of Iowans who dont even show up, said Sen. Jeff Danielson, D-Cedar Falls.
DES MOINES Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds said Monday shes had no discussions with Gov. Terry Branstad about ending his current term early to take a post in President-elect Donald Trumps administration.
She said she expects the focus to be on working with a GOP-led Legislature to move their goals to the next level.
Reynolds dismissed speculation about Branstad possibly being eyed as Trumps pick to be the next U.S. ambassador to China. She said it was coincidence Branstad is leading an Iowa trade mission to China and Japan, noting the visit was planned months ago for this week.
As youve heard the governor and I say multiple times, Reynolds said Monday, were proud of what weve been able to do. But were not done yet. Weve got a lot to do, so Im looking forward to continue serving Iowans.
Reynolds sidestepped questions about whether she plans to run for governor in 2018. I dont know what the governors going to do when asked if Branstad would seek a seventh term. She did confirm she and Branstad have not talked about the possibility of him not serving out the remaining two years and two months of his current term.
Republicans will return to the Statehouse in January with a new majority in the Senate to go with a slightly larger majority in the House after voters put 29 GOP senators and 59 GOP representatives in charge at the Statehouse.
Im excited about this next legislative session and Im excited to get back to work on behalf of Iowans, Reynold said. Were going to sit down the governor and I and our team and our staff and legislators and were going to talk about putting an agenda together that will take Iowa to the next level.
The lieutenant governor said the Branstad administrations goals continue to be growing quality jobs, shrinking the size of government, returning Iowa schools to world-class caliber, making Iowa the healthiest state in the nation as a way to help control spiraling health-care costs, and improving the quality of Iowas water supply.
Thats the big picture were looking at, Reynold said. Well sit down and take a look at everything and then work with legislators and see how we continue to move the state forward.
The 2017 sessions agenda may be tempered by the amount of state tax money available for budgeting once the state Revenue Estimating Conference meets in December. That could be somewhat restrictive on what our opportunities are moving forward. All of that has to come into play when we take a look at next steps, she said.
Iowas economic growth has been slowed by depressed farm prices that have hovered below the cost of production, and Reynolds said the objective of the trade mission Branstad currently is leading to China and Japan is to expand Iowas exports and to encourage reverse investment in Iowa by Chinese companies.
With the nation in the aftermath of a stunning Election Day, the issue of backyard chickens seems pretty tame. However, its an issue that popped up in Cedar Falls recently, just as it did a decade ago.
In both instances, the City Council voted to maintain a ban on city residents from keeping chickens in their yards on 4-3 votes.
In each instance we would have liked to have seen a clear preference of city residents when it comes to their neighbors having farm animals in their yards.
In discussions leading up to last weeks meeting, supporters cited many cities, across Iowa and the nation, that allow residents to keep a limited amount of chickens.
Staff recognizes that urban chickens are a growing trend for people to have them as pets and for egg production, David Sturch of the city planning staff wrote in a memo to Mayor Jim Brown and council members.
Passage of the motion would have allowed up to three chickens per household, hens only. Birds would have been required to be kept in an enclosed and fenced area with a 25-foot separation from any other residential dwelling. There was a motion to add ducks to the proposal before the motion was denied on the close vote.
Council members Tom Blanford, Susan deBuhr, Dave Wieland and John Runchey voted for maintaining the ban.
I think there are very legitimate health and safety concerns, Blanford said after last weeks meeting. Do I think it would be a mass problem? No. But I think theres very real concerns we should at least have a discussion about, and we never had that discussion. He said other communities ordinances should have been researched more.
Supporters of backyard chickens spoke, including a group of grade school children.
Councilman Dave Wieland reported of the people he spoke with, 80 percent supported the ban.
In supporting the proposal, Councilman Nick Taiber questioned the importance of relying on polls. Lets have a little freedom, he said.
But were left wondering where that freedom ends and with what types of animals.
Ten years ago, Wieland took similar action, breaking out the phone book and calling 20 people to get their opinions. At that time, he said no one wanted to live next to a chicken coop.
It was an action that changed his mind on the proposal back then.
We understand Wielands poll may not be scientific or official, but he took the time to try to figure out a consensus among his constituents.
We dont have a strong stance for or against allowing chickens to be kept in yards throughout the city. But we are in favor of garnering a better consensus on what the people of Cedar Falls, as a whole, would prefer on this issue.
We thank those council members who take the time to try to find out.
The Trumpists have responded to their great victory at the polls, and to the prospect of a refashioned Republican Party under President-elect Trumps leadership, with their characteristic good grace and charm. The same could be said of those on the left who in many cases had already begun gloating over their inevitable triumph from the moment Trump secured the Republican nomination. This is to be expected, and hardly counts among the more dire consequences likely to follow his ascendancy to the nations highest office. That the administration of so great a country will fall to the likes of Steven Bannon and Corey Lewandowski is the greater occasion for mourning than the bleating of emotionally immature Trump enthusiasts, or the unseemly histrionics of the left.
It would take conscious effort to be more spectacularly wrong than I have been about the likelihood of Donald Trumps ever becoming president. After many months of arguing, with no small degree of vehemence, that this years general election result was more or less impossible, it turns out that my reading of this years political scene was badly askew. It is of course true that I have a lot of company, and not only among partisans of the Never Trump persuasion, but this does nothing to obviate the simple fact: I was as wrong as it is possible to be, not once, but many times over the course of this interminable election season.
My own period of mourning took place some months ago, which has freed me to react with some detachment from the unfolding scene. Like a lot of conservatives who bitterly opposed Trumps candidacy, I find myself able to indulge a considerable dose of schadenfreude at Team Clintons expense. That such a grasping, malevolent old crone would become the most outstanding victim of her own hubris and insatiability is cause for some celebration. In her uttermost famine, she devoured herself at last. The fall of House Clinton and her final repudiation by an American public which has, to its credit, never shown much sympathy for her transparent brand of self-seeking and deceit, has given me deep satisfaction, and for that I am grateful.
I will leave it to others to dissect the polling data. The efficacy of such data is perhaps at its lowest-ever esteem, maybe with good reason (though I would caution future presidential hopefuls against the idea that Trumps improbable victory could be replicated by someone without his peculiar personal qualitiesno cult of celebrity without the celebrity). The only thing I will add to the torrent of commentary on How It All Happened is that the conventional wisdom on the prevailing dynamics of the contest still seems to me to be basically right: In a race between two deeply disliked and distrusted candidates, each with his own obviously disqualifying flaws, the candidate with the greatest advantage is the one best able to direct each news cycle into a story about the other candidate.
It was, in fact, Mrs. Clintons strategy from the outset to remain as closeted and distant as possible from the daily headlines, and in Donald Trump, whose neurotic craving for attention is perhaps his defining characteristic, she had the ideal opponent. Not only was he incapable of allowing a moment to pass in which he was not the central topic of discussion, but he was bound to make that discussion as unflattering as it possibly could be. This was, at least to most observers, the basic electioneering dynamic of the whole campaign, one which militated powerfully against Trumps ever winning the presidency. Again, I still think this was basically right.
There was something else, though, something that stood a chance of making the 2016 campaign into a black swan event, though I had dismissed it with scorn from the very start: the craving for attention on the part of Trumps voters (and, decisively, his potential voters). That craving found indirect reflection in the unbalanced, narcissistic personality of the Republican candidate. Moreover, their acute sense of victimhood made them amenable to any appeal that seemed to be directed at them. It was an appeal that Team Clinton consciously decided it had no need to make, bound as they were by their stubborn conviction that the Obama coalition could be mobilized without Obamas name on the ballot (something for which none of the last five election cycles has provided any evidence).
Call it the Mister Rogers effect, if you will. Mister Rogers Neighborhood was as successful and beloved as it was because the children watching it felt sure that Mister Rogers was speaking directly to them through the lens of the camera. Something similar was true of Ronald Reagan and, in an altogether different technological era, Franklin D. Roosevelt. It was almost too simple to attract the notice of the experts or, in my case, the amateurs.
Why these voters, especially the much-talked-about white working class of rural Pennsylvania and elsewhere, were so susceptible admits of various explanations, some derogatory and others less so, depending on your point of view. I would suggest that the most underappreciated factor in it all was a tyrannical Supreme Court under the leadership of Chief Justice Roberts, which had audaciously and repeatedly handed down to them massive political defeats, on such divisive and personally-felt subjects as health care and the meaning of marriage. A Supreme Court ruling is a horrible mechanism for the establishment of political consensus, as the ongoing thermonuclear war over Roe v. Wade ought to have shown.
When those rulings are handed down on the basis of pure ideological will, and in direct contravention of repeatedly-expressed public desires, it has the effect of demolishing any respect for the forms of Constitutional government. A candidate who presents adherence to such forms as a suckers game will find receptive ears in such a setting. One could add the profligacy of the Obama administrations own rule-breaking and law-making, for example as regards the various statutory and regulatory constraints on insurance coverage that he unilaterally waived in the heat of his own re-election campaign, but as appalling as those things might have been to conservative political junkies, they lacked the visceral quality and sense of finality that a Supreme Court ruling over a highly contentious issue might have.
What comes next? A lot of chin-stroking about What Comes Next, Id wager. Fresh off of the most in-your-face demonstration of the limits of my own powers of prediction, I will nonetheless double down on my contention that the Trump presidency will be a disaster for conservatism and that his supporters will find themselves betrayed without remorse by Donald Trump, as have so many others who have been receptive to his Art of the Deal, an art that amounts to saying pretty much anything necessary to close the deal, the details to be re-negotiated later, mostly through litigation. That such a habitual swindler and transparently self-concerned demagogue might prove to be a reliable political ally seems to me to be quite ludicrous.
The alt-right and the generally pro-Trump response is something like this, which is appearing in a thousand memes as I type:
You said Trump would never cross 30%. Then you said he would never cross 50%. Then you said he would never get the nomination. Then you said he would never win Pennsylvania. Then you said he would never be president. NOW you say he will never build a wall, that he will never undo Obamas regulatory effrontery, etc. Why should you be believed or listened to at this stage?
Its a fair enough question, but it overlooks something crucial. All of the previous predictions about Trumps odds were really predictions, not about what Trump would dohe did pretty much everything we expected he wouldbut about what the American electorate would do. Nothing has happened to date that has changed my estimation of Trump the man, who already is beginning the process of walking back his many extravagant promises. To argue that he will govern as a conservative or that he will acquire a gravitas and intellectual curiosity to which he has never been even mildly susceptible, on the basis of his having won an election, is quixotic. It seems probable that on the issue of the courts he will be willing to take some direction from his betters, because it is an issue about which he cares nothing. But because practically everything that matters to conservatives falls under the same heading, it is vain to hope that he will risk any damage to his own prestige by taking positive action on behalf of conservative policy goals. This is particularly true of "social" concerns like abortion or religious freedom, to say nothing of such arcane preoccupations as the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing rules promulgated by the Obama Department of Housing and Urban Development.
If a multi-level marketing salesman comes knocking at my familys door, I may have some misplaced confidence that they will send him packing. If they dont, it would be very foolish to change my assessment of his product or the likelihood of his making good on his promises. It is hard to imagine a figure less likely to become a scourge of the left on actual policy grounds than Donald J. Trump. All that any of us has is hope, and in the exhilaration of the post-election moment, Ive seen an unreasonable amount of it from the right-wing commentariat.
(A quick aside: All this makes the puerile hysteria of politically-attuned homosexuals all the more insufferable--it is explainable not by anything Trump has ever said against them, but only by the fact that they 1) skew young and have little experience of political defeat, and 2) have exercised such merciless retribution and denunciation against their political foes that they can only assume that that is how things are done in Zero-Sum America.)
Time will tell, as always. What remains to philosophically committed conservatives is to engage with great energy the opportunity, suspect though it might be, to gain some ground in those areas where a Congressional majority may be efficacious, in the hopes that the insouciance of the next president can be turned to some advantage. That this counsel turns on the doubtful reliability of such men as the senior senator from Kentucky should not dissuade us from the task.
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Standing in Salem Pioneer Cemetery, amid the graves of more than 40 black pioneers, Willamette students gained a historic perspective on racism.
Some of the black people, who were among Oregons first pioneers and whose remains date back to the late 1800s, were buried near whites like Asahel Bush, a newspaper publisher known in the 1850s for his racist editorials. Yet, even back then, some people fought against discrimination. Also buried in the cemetery is the Rev. Obed Dickinson an abolitionist whose wife, Charlotte, tutored black children barred from attending school.
Luther Jessie III 20, an undeclared major from Oakland, California, found the cemetery visit insightful. After decades of bitter history, he says, They all ended up in the same place anyway.
Racism yesterday and today
Jessie and other students visited the cemetery Saturday for a College Colloquium class trip led and narrated by Gwen Carr, secretary for educational nonprofit Oregon Black Pioneers. After the stop at the cemetery, students headed north to Portland, where they visited several sites that illustrate black perseverance and struggle in the predominantly white state.
The trip complemented their Remembering Emmett Till College Colloquium class, taught by Maegan Brooks, assistant professor of civic communication and media. Students have been exploring the history and impact of Till, a teen whose brutal death in Mississippi became a catalyst for the civil rights movement. Till was lynched in 1955 after being accused of flirting with a white woman. No one was ever convicted of his murder.
Brooks says she didnt want students to conclude her class with the impression racism only happened in the Mississippi delta and in the 1950s. Discussion of recent violence last month, bullet holes riddled a memorial site where where Till was killed reminded students how racism can persist even over an incident that happened decades ago.
I wanted to bring racism to the present day, not only with all these nationwide shootings of unarmed black youth but also whats happening to Emmett Tills memory right now, she says. What better way to try and understand how African-American history is remembered than to tour memorial sites in our own region?
A story of perseverance
North of Portland, students stood in a sprawling park and raceway area once known as Vanport, a temporary housing development for shipyard workers. Black residents made up 35 percent of Vanports population. Their presence, as well as the dilapidated housing, caused mixed feelings among other residents until the town was destroyed by a flood in 1948.
In Portland, students visited Union Station, a key center for black employment in the late 1800s to the early 1930s, and Vancouver Avenue First Baptist Church of Portland, a popular location for activism in the 1950s through today.
Brooks arranged the tour with Oregon Black Pioneers in the hope it would encourage students to consider interning at the nonprofit or engage in related efforts.
It was also a way to educate first-year students, many of whom are from other states, about Oregons lesser-known history.
Brooks says, Im hoping to pique their interest in African-American history so they can really understand through these stories that racism is everywhere but so is perseverance and resistance.
Long hard trip down to the Tiny Russian Village
Snowed, rained, sleeted and cold cold cold. But we made it and drove all the way to the Tiny Russian Village with no issues to speak of. Just nerve wracking for this bear. I have said many times, Russians suck at driving!
Father Pavel was at the village and he looks to be trying to figure out how he can live in the Tiny Russian Village year around. He was so glad to see us and was happy that this American is back for the winter. This makes just four of us all winter. Vova, Nina, Nikolai and I are all that is left. I would be happy to have Father Pavel all winter also. He has issues for a home to live in. The church which is a home converted to a church, can not by their rules, be used to stay in. The bell tower is not ready yet and another home they have, has too many issues. He knows that if he lived here, his flock would be up and down the mountain all the time and bring life back to this Tiny Russian Village
Svetochka and I will spend several days in the Big Village and we have to do banking issues, gather more winter supplies and just look around and see what is happening. Time moves slowly in the villages of Russia. While time moves fast in Moscow and things change like the wind. The villages resist change like a willow tree in a storm. It is nice and makes the villages the place to be
We also need to get hold of our mechanic in the Big Village, the one who installed our engine, he has to finish up a few small issues and check the car over again. Sammy the Volga did fantastic coming down and is such a pleasure to drive. She may be a Volga, old and cantankerous, but she is reliable and fun to drive. I can honestly say, I have owned dozens of cars, from expensive to cheap and the Volgas we have owned are the best cars I have ever driven!
We have had two Volgas since I have been to Russia. A model 2410 called Nelly and the one we have now a model 310221 called Sammy
Going to make this short today. Still have to work on the laptop. Some reason the Windows OS simply broke while it set waiting for me to come back. It was turned off and when turned back on, no worky againy
So I have reinstalled Windows 7 and having to get everything set back up again. I have two back up drives and everything was there waiting to reinstall. Not sure what happened, but Windows would not start and it was unable to fix itself, with the startup repair. I am going to have to figure this out. I do not want to have that happen again. Therefore, that is why I make backups and such
Yes, it is nice to be back in the Tiny Russian Village More tomorrow
WtR
Master filmmaker Mani Ratnams ongoing romantic drama, Duet, will be shot in the Southeast European country of Serbia. The shooting will begin in the last week of this month and Mani and his expert crew will can several action episodes, which were earlier planned to be shot in Kashmir.
Mani Ratnam is usually known to stick to his storys milieu and he rarely goes abroad to shoot his movies. He had earlier shot some portions of Guru in Turkey and Amrutha in Sri Lanka. This is after almost a decade that Mani is shooting his film abroad.
Starring Karthi as a pilot and Aditi Rao Hydari as a doctor, Duet has its music scored by AR Rahman. The film will be releasing in March next year.
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Nov 14, 2016 | By Tess
Perhaps one of the best things about 3D printing technology is how democratic and accessible it can be. Of course, while not everyone can afford a state of the art industrial or desktop 3D printer, there are tons of options out there for those who want to 3D print for cheap or who want to build their own additive manufacturing systems. Recently, for instance, we came across the particularly inspiring story of Afate Gnikou, a Togolese inventor who built his very own 3D printer from electronic waste he gathered from landfills.
Gnikous foray into 3D printing began in 2013, when the 37-year-old geographer took part in a contest organized by local tech incubator WoeLab to build Togos first ever 3D printer. At the time, he wanted to draw attention to the huge amount of electronic waste that was ending up in Togolese, Nigerian, and Ghanaian landfills, largely from second hand computers from Europe and abroad, so decided to build his 3D printer out of these wasted materials.
Since participating in the contest, Gnikou has continued to work on his innovative 3D printer, made entirely from recycled parts, and has been recognized for his determination. In 2014, for instance, Gnikou and his team were awarded first place at Fab10, an international event hosted in Barcelona geared towards accessible technologies. As the maker explains, however, even this award did not help him to raise funds or find a partner for the project.
Gnikou at Fab10 in Barcelona (2014)
Despite these challenges, Gnikou is still determined to further develop his 3D printer and turn it into a viable product for the African market. As he explained, I want to adapt the 3D printer to the Togolese and, indeed, African context and to fit local needs. This has involved making a more sturdy and durable 3D printer model, and improving its structural frame.
For example, while the first 3D printer model was built using the body from a computer, the second iteration has integrated the body of a scanner, and plastic parts from computer monitors. This has allowed him to make the 3D printer more solid than before. Additionally, Gnikou has added lights to the 3D printer, which means it can more easily be used at night or in darker spaces.
3D printed knee prostheses
Ultimately, the Togolese maker is hoping to use his recycled 3D printer to make affordable and custom fit prostheses for the people in his community. As he explained in an interview, There are many people in my community living with disabilities. If I ask them why they dont use medical prostheses, they smile and say 'My friend, they are too expensive!.'
Like in many places, prostheses are still relatively unaccessible in Togo largely because of their high cost. Under the current system, prosthetic devices are all standardized and imported to Togo from abroad, meaning not only high costs but also ill-fitting or generically sized prostheses. Gnikou hopes that his 3D printer will help to create affordable and specially customized prostheses for those who cannot afford regular ones. With a 3D printer, we could what we need and free our continent from its dependence on imports.
The DIY 3D printer has so far printed about 150 objects, though all relatively small in size, the largest being 16 cm in width and 12 cm in height. To help move his vision forwards, Gnikou is continually looking for interested partners and additional funding. Primarily, he is looking to expand his workshop space (he is currently working out of his parents house), and to set up a training facility where he can teach young people to build their own 3D printers and machines. My goal would be to get them to the point where they are able to create objects that respond to concrete needs or help them in their daily lives, he said.
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Nov 14, 2016 | By Benedict
Penn State University has signed a Master Research contract with defense manufacturer Lockheed Martin, signaling the continuation of research collaboration and an enhanced recruiting relationship. Lockheed Martin has previously supported Penn State students in various 3D printing projects.
Agreements between academic institutions and wealthy companies can be mutually beneficial: universities are put in a good position to secure research funding from the corporate partner, while participating companies able to keep an eye on promising graduates from the university who might prove worth recruiting. Penn State and Lockheed Martin, a Pennsylvania-based public university and an American defense and aerospace company, respectively, are two parties to have consistently taken advantage of the unique relationship between business and academia, having collaborated on numerous ventures, including several additive manufacturing projects, as recently as spring 2016.
According to a press release put out on Friday, the partnership between Penn State and Lockheed Martin is set to continue long in to the future, as the pair recently put pen to paper on a Master Research Contract. According to the two parties, the new agreement will signal the initiation of further research collaborations, an enhanced recruiting relationship, and an increased engagement from Lockheed Martin in Penn State programs. Advancing university-industry partnerships such as this one with Lockheed exemplifies Penn State's renewed emphasis on economic development and job creation, and adds to our growing reputation as the go-to industry-friendly university, commented Neil Sharkey, vice president for research at Penn State.
While there are few details yet about the kind of projects on which Penn State and Lockheed Martin will collaborate, the defense company has historically taken part in several Penn State research programs, including those in the area of 3D printing, or additive manufacturing. Earlier this year, Lockheed Martin asked students in Penn States Introduction to Design Engineering class to use 3D printing to solve new problems in aerospace, defense, and other areas of interest for Lockheed Martin. During this project, students used additive manufacturing to create, amongst other things, 3D printed heat exchangers, shock absorbers, wire connectors, and USB hub mounting brackets.
The research agreement between Penn State and Lockheed Martin reportedly includes a framework that will guide future research projects focused in areas including computer science, cybersecurity, supply chain and aerospace engineering. Students will have access to high-profile talent recruitment opportunities, and Lockheed Martin employees will get the chance to take part in Penn States online masters programs for electrical engineering and engineering leadership and management.
As our technological demands increase, so do our needs for world-class talent, said Lockheed Martin Vice President of Engineering & Technology Dan Heller. This agreement is an ideal opportunity for Penn State students to work alongside Lockheed Martin engineers and scientists on the challenges we face today and those we anticipate will emerge in the future.
Earlier this year, Lockheed Martin reported that it was using metal 3D printing technology to build satellites up to 40 percent faster. The company has also used 3D printed parts in its Trident missiles.
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by Leanne Ogasawara
Every night God takes his glittering
merchandise out of his showcase
holy chariots, tables of law, fancy beads,
crosses and bells
and puts them back into dark boxes
inside and pulls down the shutters: Again,
not one prophet has come to buy.
Yehuda Amichai
Jerusalem: utterly obssessed by the place, I even love finding copies of the holy city both imaginal and real. There are, for example, William Blake's rural England of his imagination (Ah, Jerusalem) and the Puritan's city upon a hill in America. There are also the real Jerusalems built of brick and stone.
Such real-life copies can be found mainly in European cities, from Cambridge to Bologna. My own favorite new Jerusalem is the holy city of Lalibela in Ethiopia, however, where it is believed that pilgrims receive the same blessing visiting that city as they would if they had visited Jerusalem itself. It is a place I long to see someday.
Despite knowing that copies of Jerusalem can be found dotted around Europe, I never really expected to find one so far north as in the Flemish city of Bruges.
In Bruges.
Belgium's greatest poet Guido Gezelle referred to the city as a copy of the holy land. But, in the movie In Bruges, the mob boss Harry calls the town a fucking fairy tale.
(Ray, however disagrees).
In any event, my astronomer and I were visiting the city on a van Eyck pilgrimage. Starting in Paris, we looked at van Eyck pictures in the Louvre, in Ghent and then in Bruges and I was struck over and over again by the way time was conflated in the paintings. Like a wormhole connecting discrete and distant points in time, these late Medieval and early Renaissance pictures were stunningly transportive in terms of time and space so that, for example, Mary and the baby or the Lamb were depicted side-by-side with contemporary figures. Contemporary donors appeared in the paintings accompanied by their patron saints, who thereby formed a link between these two worlds. The church authorities not surprisingly clamped down on this practice and the early Renaissance donor portraits disappeared but it was in Bruges that I realized how wonderful it would be to see oneself in a picture like that. If I lived back then, I certainly would have desired a picture of myself like that, depicted alongside saints, pilgrims and God. Is it not the ultimate selfie?
In summer, I had written here in these pages about relics and their long-lost power to emotionally and spiritually transport and spiritually move a person, asking:
I wonder if things have the power to move us in this way anymore? I mean, there was a time (the time Umberto Eco likes to write about) when people were obsessed by fantastical maps and with great quests for objects that held much power. Like mountains, certain objects had the power to draw people in. Relics, for example, were big business. Think of Sainte-Chappele, built to house the Crown of Thorns or recall the mystery surrounding the quests for the Holy Grail. Eco's Baudolino is almost entirely taken up with the relic trade and the role played by faith (faith in the fragrance of these relicswhere it is the perfume that is true not necessarily the relic itself). This kind of devotion to relics is famously practiced by Catholics and Buddhists, and probably harkens back to an ancient propensity for becoming enchanted by things.
It is also a commitment to remember, right? (Poor, dear Henri Fontal!)
Believe it or not Bruges happens to be in possession of one of the Top Ten Relics Associated with Jesus Christ. This came about when the Count of Flanders, Thierry of Alsace, was given a relic of the Holy Blood by the king of Jerusalem, Baldwin III of Anjou (who I think was also the count's brother-in-law). Given as a reward for his courage during the second crusade it came with the approval of the patriarch of Jerusalem. In all probability the relic was obtained during the sack of Constantinople a hundred years later but whatever the fact, this relic was to put Bruges on the map big time (transforming the town into a holy city) and the adoration of the relic is the main reason that Bruges came to be seen as a little Jerusalem.
The blood of Christ was seen by some as being what is commonly referred to as the Holy Grail. (Sang Real, etc.) Interestingly, the man credited with starting the legend of the Grail romance, Chretien de Troyes, stated that he had found the story of the Grail in a manuscript supposedly given to him by Philip of Alsace, who was the son of Thierry of Alsacethe very man who brought the vial of blood back from Jerusalem in 1150. Or so the legend goes.
Remember in the movie In Bruges when Ken and Ray go to visit the relic of the Holy Blood? Instead of going to the Basilica of the Holy Blood where the relic is actually housed, the two characters visit an altogether different church. It seems crazy not to film such a famous relic in the church where everyone knows it is kept and yet how could the director resist Jerusalem Church? So, we see Ken and Ray in Jerusalem church, preparing to view the relic of the holy blood.
It is such a great scene in what is such a great film!
Stepping inside Jerusalem Church in Bruges is like slipping into an Umberto Eco novel. Did I mention it's real name is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre?
It all started around the time that van Eyck was painting his Mystic Lamb altarpiece (un sospiro~) that two members of the illustrious Italian banking family, the Adornes, returned from a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Deeply impressed by the beauty of the Christ's tomb in Jerusalem, the two brothers immediately began work on their own chapel based on the design of the Holy Sepulchre upon their return to Bruges.
With its rounded dome and Jerusalem cross atop, it is reminiscent of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalembut what awaits one inside is what is the real surprise. The clip from the film describes the feeling best, I think. Here it is again.
Beneath soaring crosses and a dark and morbid altar of skulls and bones, along with whips, nails and hammers, lies the the crypt of Anselm (who died while engaging in intrigues in Scotland) and his beloved wife Maragaretha. It is Golgotha. The scene of Ray and Jen talking in the church is classic. Instead of the holy blood, however, in reality when one ascends upstairs there one fins a splinter of the True Cross, also brought back from the holy Land. Un unexplained mystery, as described here, it is not prominently displayed nor was it being worshipped (compared to the massive crowds at the Holy Blood relic). It's my favorite scene in the movie and in many ways perfectly depicts the gloomy or morbidly medieval mood of Bruges. For there were orders of men (knights?) that grew up around the crusadesorders such as the Order of the Holy Sepulchre (of which Anselm was a card-carrying member) and the Knights Hospitaller, also known as the Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, of Rhodes and of Malta, who had toyed with the idea of turning Bruges into a New Jerusalem, which could serve as spiritual HQ of Europe, should Jerusalem and the Sepulchre fall again to the Moors.
++
The Dead City (Gluck das mir verblieb). I am now reading George Rodenbach's Bruges-La-Morte. Believe it or not, I had never heard of the book (nor the opera which some say inspired the making of Hitchcock's Verigo). Filled with beautiful black and white photographs, it is one of the most stunning portaits of a city that I have ever read. Rodenbach indeed insisted that cities reflect different states of the soul. And, in the author's introduction to the novel, in his poetic and evocative prose he writes:
In this study of passion our other principle aim has been to evoke a Town, the Town as essential character, associated with states of mind, counselling, dissuading, inducing the hero to act. And in reality, this town of Bruges, on which our choice fell, does seem almost human. It establishes a powerful influence on all who stay there.
It molds them through its monuments and its bells.
Devastated at the loss of his beloved wife the main character chooses Bruges as the perfect place to mourn. So much like in Mann's Death in Venice, the city is portrayed like death itself. With cold and still, unmoving waters filling the city's canals, the swans themselves become images of decay and death; while the famous bells of the belfy toll with the stagnation and weight of the church (or maybe like in Pamuk's Istanbul, it seems to be crumbling by the sheer weight of its own glorious history?) Before long the story becomes a stage for the character's fight between darkness and light as he obsessively struggles with the allure of a young dancer with whom he confuses with that of his beloved lost wife (even their voices are identical). The story does not end well. In fact, it ends in the death of the novel's title
But Bruges is not simply a dead city, like Mann's Venice or Pamuk's Istanbul. Because Bruges is both about heaven and hell.
The mind is its own place,
and in itself can make a Heaven of Hell,
a Hell of Heaven.
John Milton
Burning in hell this city after all was the inspiration for the Dante of the painters Bosch's images of hell. For as Joel Bleifuss says, it is a city with a dark past.
While the sleepy, medieval backdrop to Martin McDonagh's hitman comedy certainly appears like the setting for a fairy tale, it also hides a very dark past, one full of fundamentalist depravity and dank dungeons as well as knights and ladies. It was a city of contradictions-host to one of the most spectacular banquets in medieval times and the inspiration for Hieronymus Bosch's hellish visions
The movie is very much taken up with these images of hell and of purgatory. It is a place where nothing works and everyone dies. As Ernest Mathijs says,
The key to In Bruges is its nothingness. Nothing works, nothing is sacred; every action misses its goal; everyone is misunderstood; and no one escapes.
What a strange fate for a city said to be holy; a city housing a relic of the True Cross and a vessel containing drops of the Holy Blood. But I think it is perhaps this dual quality of heaven and hell that most ties the place to Jerusalem. As I said about Jerusalem here, maybe Bruges too exists as a heavenly city lying on the same axis as purgatory AND heaven as not just the center of the world, but also the heart of the world? Less a city of fanatics and never-ending conflict, Bruges reminds me so much of the poem by Yehuda Amichai at topa sleeping city, where all the fancy beads, crosses and bells are on display in wait. Like Venice and Jerusalem, Walking around the city, I could not help but think of Dante's great allegory of the soul's journey to find God. Down, down, downTime and space warpon Dante's Holy Mountain.
Wonderful movie, wonderful book, wonderful poem, wonderful city.
For more: a great article on El Bosco here. Also my earlier post: The Walls of Jerusalem
by Michael Liss
We got our butts kicked, and kicked very hard. Adlai Stevenson, ruminating about the results of the 1952 Election, recalled Abraham Lincoln's reaction to an electoral loss: We are like the boy who stubbed his toeit hurts too much to laugh, and we are too old to cry.
It's a few days later, and the damaged digit still aches, so let's take off the shoe and get a closer look. Nastyswollen with punctured pride and inflated expectation. And, is that yellowish stuff pus?
There is no delicate way to describe why and how this wrenching event occurred. Nor is there any comfort in speculating just what our new leaders in Washington have planned for us. But we need to. If we don't dive in, take our medicine, and prepare for the future history will repeat itself.
We can begin the post mortem with the Clinton campaign's primary complaints: unfair coverage by the mainstream media, and James Comey's intercession. To that, I am going to add the dedicated Trump team at WikiLeaks.
Ah, the press, you can't live with them, you can't live without them. They loved Trumpeven though he threatened and mistreated them, he was great copy, he made news constantly, which drew eyeballs and advertiser dollars. To balance out their reporting of Trump's excesses (all Trump had was excesses) they felt compelled to add an equal dollop of negative Hillary stories. To the Clinton's campaign's collective way of thinking, this constantly created a false equivalence of two sinners. Fair? Kind of. I give it 5 out of a possible 10 on the biased scale.
Comey? Very difficult to evaluate. I don't want to impugn his motives and I think he was genuinely conflicted. What we don't know is how many votes he moved because we don't have hard, reliable data. Even with that qualifier, we can't discount the impact of Comey's choices and the possibility that his decisions changed both the Presidential and down-ballot races. I think he is an honorable manand, because he's an honorable man, he probably is losing sleep over thisand should. 8 out of 10, with the potential for an upward revision.
Assange's vigilantes? Yes, they played a role. What the hackers showed the voting public was something they suspected existed but didn't really want to seethe sausage of politics-as-usual being made. The content wasn't extraordinarywar gaming, opposition research, evaluation of vulnerabilities is exactly what campaigns are designed for, and in fact, must do. But we only got to look behind one curtain, not both, and when the contest is between the ultimate insider and the ultimate outsider, it takes its toll. Six out of ten, especially because the disclosures were the equivalent of regular small doses of poison.
Yet all these things had a common threadthe candidate herself. No emails, no Comey. No hacked private server, no WikiLeaks drip-drip of internal speculation and doubt. No forty years in public service and the public eye, for good and bad, no Clinton Foundation, no checkered past, no jaded press, no false equivalence.
And here is where it falls apart for me. I voted for Hillary Clinton. I believed that she was highly qualified, experienced, intelligent, and would have done a good job. And I believed that Donald Trump was uniquely unqualified, for any number of reasons. But I simply do not understand what the heck her campaign was thinking when they got into this, because, while Donald Trump was unpredictable, everything else above was.
The private server was obviously a terrible choicebut, for darn sakes, why not deal with it forthrightly, with a plausible reason and serious mea culpa? The Clinton Foundation? Go on the offense, with specificity Donald bought portraits of himself, but here's what we accomplishedwe built schools, we built hospitals, we got pharmaceutical companies to donate lifesaving drugs. Build a narrative of a committed public servant, maybe not the most likable, but someone who was dogged in her pursuit of good things for others. Remember you aren't trying to convince your enemies, but trying to give comfort to your friends. Make them proud, not defensive.
It never happened. Maybe it wasn't in heror maybe there was too much scar tissue, but Hillary Clinton never connected, and never had a cohesive message that she could and would better people's lives. Trump did, in his own unique way. Bernie certainly did. But Hillary was unable to ignite a movement, to engender a loyalty to person and theme. You could see it in how she ended her campaigntrying to assemble a coalition of minorities and the coastal elites, two groups with virtually nothing in common, and holding rallies with pop stars. Trips to the Midwest, to Wisconsin and Michigan? Not so much. Joan Williams, in The Harvard Business Review, roughs up Hillary a bit too much, but she does make some acute observations about the white, working class voters who, in massive numbers, rejected her in favor of a crude macho mogul who began life on third base and spent most of his adult life on corporate welfare. From the pantsuits to the deplorables language, Hillary was the embodiment of elite condescension. So she lost this crucial group, taking down the Democratic Party with her.
What's next? Now that we have handed over our government to a cranky, imperious 70-year-old used to having his way, and a tight band of ideologues chomping at the bit to exercise power, what can we expect?
It is going to be bad, and it's going to be bad right away. The core constituencies of the GOP have been clamoring for their priorities, and will not tolerate legislative roadblocks. There is plenty of low-lying fruit, starting with the Supreme Court. We Democrats are going to have to grit our teeth on this one, as good-old Mitch McConnell gives us his turtle smirk and uses the nuclear option, while John Cornyn lectures us on the need for a prompt confirmation, and on how the country has chosen. Expect someone hard-right with a Messianic zeal for activismconservative activism. We will live with it because we have no choice, whispering to ourselves and the horse you came in on and dreaming of a time when we can return the favor.
That's one Supreme Court Justice, which takes us back to Scalia. But now comes the hard partthe social conservative agenda: guns, gays, and fetuses. Abortion, first up. Look for top-down Federally preemptive legislation modeled on bills such as Oklahoma passed, except even more severe. The real debates amongst Republicans (Democrats will be shut out of committees and gagged) will be just at the edgeseither a complete abortion ban, a ban with an exception for the life of the mother, or a ban with exceptions for life, rape, or incest. Criminalization will also be discussedof both the mother and the provider, with a humane compromise of just criminalizing the provider (watch out Planned Parenthood). Congress will pass this on party lines, McConnell will use reconciliation and/or the nuclear option if needed, and Trump will sign it, because he said he would. It will then move through the court system, with conservatives fervently praying that Justice Ginsburg gets just a little closer to God in the interim.
Gays are nextthe GOP will revisit the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, revitalize it and expand itlegalizing discrimination in both the public and private sector based on religious belief. This will go well beyond wedding cakes and flowers and apply more broadly to healthcare, hiring, and benefits. The language will be broad enough to eliminate restrictions as they relate to previously protected classes including race, religion, and gender. The extent of the final legislation will be debated, and my guess is that there will be some pressure to moderate from some otherwise GOP-aligned business interests, but in the end, it will be passed. Trump will sign this one as well, perhaps after some negotiations in which Pence (who championed similar measures in Indiana) will play a key role. Watch this area very carefullyit's a place where the Alt-right might have a serious dog in the fight, as conscience exemptions could finally provide them with the safe-harbor for open discrimination they have been hoping for.
Guns NRA legislative priorities will be Congress's. More pre-emptive legislation prohibiting states from enacting restrictions on gun sales, gun ownership, registrations and information databases. Universal reciprocity on the issuing of gun permitsso, a concealed-carry permit issued in Texas would have to be honored by New York. This is all going to get doneTrump is in favor of it, and it's a trap for Democrats. The simple fact on guns is that the people who believe in unlimited Second Amendment rights are infinitely more organized and passionate that the larger group who favor regulation. The Democrats know itit's a complete loser for any (remaining) Democrat from any area with a gun culture. Soon, we will all have guns.
On to money and mayhem. The Establishment GOP has three priorities, with which Trump is irregularly aligned. First, both favor steep tax cuts for business and the wealthythese can't be done immediately (you need to give the lobbyists time to bid) but they will happen by mid-year. The Democrats have absolutely no chance of stopping this, and they shouldn't even try. Second, both Trump and the GOP favor substantially more military spending, although they have different military ambitions. This, too, will happen, but most of it will be on weapons, and less on personnel and readiness. The GOP has an unacknowledged policy problem here. It takes a lot of money and a lot of manpower to soothe the fevered brow of the armchair warriors, and, realistically, that can only come from two unpopular sourcestaxes and a draft. Republicans think they can return to the Bush erause borrowed money (and blame the Democrats for deficits) and purely volunteer armed forces. That won't be enough because the world has changed and threats are broader, although this problem will not be publicly acknowledged for some time.
Environmental regulations. Prepare for a lunar landscape. Trump is going to tear up the Paris Agreement. The GOP has long craved drilling and mining everywhere, while shielding the extractive industries from liability or a responsibility to clean up. This is a layup for Trumphe will frame it as a job-creator for his blue-collar fans, but, in the end, it's a gigantic boondoggle for industry, and they will pay handsomely for it. Legislation and Executive Orders will move very quickly here, and there is absolutely nothing the Democrats can do about this onethey just don't have the votes anywhere. I plan to invest in Hazmat suit-makers and air-conditioning equipment manufacturers.
That Wall and Those People. Trump will have his wallwhat kind of wall will be open to interpretation, but it will be a wall, and a great one. This was a key promise he made to his backers. He will swiftly eliminate DACA, again, winning cheers from his supporters. On mass deportations and flying squads headed to minority neighborhoods to root out six-year-olds taking American jobs, he will hold back, looking for the political cover of a committee. But take note that Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions, a fierce critic of immigration, now has a key role on Trump's team. These two are going the play a game of Bad Cop, Worse Cop.
Obamacare: The surest repeal on the planet. Hating Obamacare is part of the catechism of being a Republican. Replace? Not so much. The GOP has some ideas for patient-centered reforms which largely revolve around liability shields for medical providers, drug companies and medical-device makers. But even they know they don't actually have any way to improve medical careit's not the purpose of their plans anyway. Trump has expressed some interest in retaining preexisting condition coverage and coverage for children until they are 26, and expect the GOP to use those as fig-leafs as they look to expand by millions the numbers of uninsured. Democrats have a tough road on thisACA is broadly unpopular, so the best they can do tactically is to allow the GOP to indulge themselves and hopefully take some responsibility (and blame).
Entitlements: This one is trickier. Programs for the poor will be cut back or eliminated in the name of deficit reductionlook at SNAP and Medicaid as deep pockets. As to Social Security and Medicare, the GOP fantasizes about curtailing these and using the savings for more tax cuts and military spending, but has electoral concerns. The problem Democrats have with this is that it's just as much as a loser for them. For decades they have failed to understand something basicmany people who work resent every dollar that goes to people who don't. This is absolutely critical for Democrats to accept and adapt toif entitlement reform leads them to only defend the poor, they lose. They need a comprehensive response, which includes input from the healthcare providers who will not be able to provide care if Medicaid doesn't pay them.
So, my fellow Democrats, where are we? My friends are upset, my children frightened, and I haven't slept more than 3 consecutive hours for over a week. I have been inundated with texts and emails from people I know and care about, who are similarly suffering. There is an overwhelming feeling of profound personal vulnerability that may be unprecedented in the history of the greatest nation the world has ever known.
But all is not lost. We can beat this. First, we will need to indulge ourselves in breast-beating and self-recriminations. It's a normal reactionand we have time for it given the fact that we will play no role in governance for the foreseeable future. Second, a moment of reality. We are down, but not entirely out. Hillary actually won the popular vote, meaning that there are plenty of Americans who are willing to listen to us, if we can only come up with a coherent message. Third, Republicans have now become the party of Trump, and Trump is now a Republican. Before Election Day, neither of these things were true. Now, as they exercise power together, it will be. They will both overreach. Fourth, we have the luxury of picking our fightsand we have 48 Senators, the Senate rules (and Chuck Schumer) to use. Choose them wisely, don't get suckered into things on which we look out of touch, and we can highlight differences that matter to the American people. Fifth, the hard-right program that GOP is about to impose will not be universally admired, and some of their Senators and Congressmen are going to have to pay for their votes at the ballot box. Am I overly optimistic on this? Perhaps, but the least popular Governor in America is Sam Brownback, whose vision of a conservative utopia is too extreme even for conservative Kansas.
Finally, let's try to become a national party again, a party of growth, of optimism. In a democracy, when it does something government should seek the most good for the maximum number of people. The Republicans won'ttheir model is built around reward and punishment. We can be better than that. It doesn't matter so much whether we move a little more to the left, or a little more to the center. Rather, we need to show that we are more than a collection of special-interest groups, that we have a broader vision. We haven't done that well, and we need to.
I leave you with one final thought, not my own, but from a neighbor with whom I rode up in the elevator. He's a naturalized citizen married to a Canadian, and we talked about that for a bit. When we reached his floor, the door open, he walked out, turned on his heel, and pointed his finger at me. You leave, he wins twice.
Kind of sums it up. I'll have to stay.
by Matt McKenna
A population of complacent optimists unexpectedly find themselves at the mercy of a ghastly ogre: Is this the story of the Democrats in 2016 or the plot of DreamWorks new animated film, Trolls? As liberal American adults come to grips with how their country could elect the relatively progressive Barack Obama to the Presidency twice in a row only to immediately elect the much less progressive Donald Trump, children around the world are watching Trolls, a hard hitting metaphor for the 2016 U.S. Presidential election.
The filmmakers deserve credit for coming up with a ninety-minute movie based on nothing more than the license for a brand of goofy dolls that was last culturally relevant back in the 1990s along with other collectibles such as Beanie Babies, Furbies, and Pokemon. To turn the toy line into a movie franchise, the screenwriters gifted the Trolls with a strange backstory: Within their songful, permanently optimistic society, the Trolls only problem is that they are hunted by the Bergen, a diseased-looking band of ogres who find happiness only in eating the little Trolls. Every year, in fact, the Bergen enjoy a festival called Trollstice in which the normally mopey, grumpy, and unpleasant Bergen feast upon the bodies of the radiant Trolls to attain momentary contentment. Unsurprisingly, the Trolls eventually tire of being eaten, and they escape Bergentown by hiding in a nearby forest. After a brief chase, all the Bergensave onegive up looking for them, and the Trolls appear to be safe forever.
The Trolls, however, are not safe forever. Chef, the last Bergen holdout, spends the next twenty years of her life attempting to locate the Trolls in order to cook them for Trollstice. Her search is unsuccessful until the overly optimistic Trolls throw one dance party too many, and the dour Bergen tracks the noise to their secret location. Chef collects a handful of screaming Trolls into her fanny pack, returns to Bergentown, and leaves Trolls protagonist Princess Poppy in a state of shock and sadness.
Sound familiar? How directors Walt Dohrn and Mike Mitchell could possibly have known how the 2016 Presidential election was going to unfold is beyond me, but their deft depiction of election night from the point of view of liberal Americans is striking. The party at which the Trolls are discovered by Chef closely resembles Clintons pre-election rallies and the election-night party where buoyant Democrats enjoyed a festival-like atmosphereat least until the election results started trickling in. While the Trolls pre-Bergen dance party included a light show and a DJ voiced by Gwen Stefani, the Democrats enjoyed pre-election musical performances by Beyonce, Jay-Z, Lady Gaga, and others. Clearly, both the Trolls and the Democrats know how to throw a party even if they arent great at knowing how to identify a threat.
While the pre-Bergen and pre-election parties were similar, the partygoers reaction to their respective festivities chaotic aftermaths bares an even more stark similarity. The stunned faces on the Trolls as the Bergen walked away with their doomed compatriots match the stunned faces on the Democrats as Trump walked away with their doomed electoral votes. Furthermore, the immediate responses of the Trolls and the Democrats highlight the uncomfortable uncertainty around how the two groups could possibly recover from their bad nights. For example, when faced with the shock of the Bergen attack, Princess Poppys reaction is not to evaluate how she and the other Trolls ended up in their predicament, but rather she curiously continues doing the same thing that attracted the Bergen to the Trolls location in the first placeshe belts out loud and lengthy saccharine tune about going on an adventure. Democrats have reacted similarly to their loss by continuing to hit upon the same talking points that failed to persuade enough Americans to vote for Clinton during the actual election. Though topics such as the awful things Trump said during the race and FBI Director James Comeys handling of the Clinton email server case strike a chord with current Clinton supporters, they clearly dont resonate with the Americans that flipped their votes from Obama in 2012 to Trump in 2016. For both the Trolls and the Democrats, the tension in the narrative comes from both groups inability to adapt to changing circumstances.
The silver lining for Democrats is that if Trolls accurately represents the pre-election and immediate post-election feelings of American liberals, the conclusion of the film offers hope for the demoralized political party. Although Princess Poppy may not have much of a plan to win back her fellow Trolls from the Bergen, she is joined on her adventure by Branch, a Troll who is somehow immune to the creatures typical optimism. Therefore, even if the Democrats dont currently have a plan for how to reclaim the electoral votes they lost in 2016, perhaps they too have members who can see through their partys typical optimism to ensure that future election nights dont end quite so poorly.
by Akim Reinhardt
Maybe one day I'll publish the 2,500 word screed I wrote for this website about how fucking sick I am of white people. And not just the racist, sexist ass holes who eagerly voted for a racist, sexist ass hole flaunting racism and sexism as a central part of his campaign; or the not-racist, sexist ass holes who held their noses and pulled the lever for a racist, sexist ass hole, and in doing so exhibited morally bankruptcy by giving public sanction to racism and sexism; but also the middle class, white liberals ass holes who valiantly fought hard to prevent a racist, sexist ass hole from reaching the White House, but once they lost, became self-centered, self-indulgent turds who had to publicly make everything about themselves, because nobody fucking suffers like white people.
Maybe one day I'll publish that essay.
But not today. Because publishing that essay, ironically enough, would be just one more way in which a white, middle class ass hole (me) found a way to use his privileged platform (this site) to make public declarations about white people. And even though it's a blistering critique which I stand behind every word of, it would just be another example of a white person making this all about white people.
But right now, this is not about white people. This is about what we, as Americans, choose to do amid the horror that some of us have wrought.
So instead of going an angry rant, I am going to write in of support brown people, in support of immigrants, and in support of women, and in support of LGBTQ people.
People are complex, contradictory beings. Despite the absurd fantasies of some economists, we are not like cats, simply licking what we like, clawing what we don't, ignoring all that doesn't matter or captivate us, and always working in our self-interest.
Rather, we are complicated and erratic to the point of enigma. We are not always kind or good to each other, or even to ourselves. We are not the nominals in rational choice theory equations. We are the ephemeral stuff of poetry. We are the tangled threads of psychology. We are the blinking vagaries of stardust. We are the unknowable mysteries we use to paint our gods.
And sometimes that shit goes really wrong.
The wrong can take as many forms as we humans can assume, which is nearly endless. As Townes Van Zandt once said, sometimes our pain and trouble fall upon us like a storm, and sometimes we dig our own holes.
Right now, this nation is digging holes. Holes that force people into pits of isolation and inequity. What to do?
Refusing to dig is good, but it is not enough.
Imploring others not to dig is also good, but it is also not enough.
Reach down. Extend your hand. Pull people up.
And those of us who are in no real danger of falling into a hole must be prepared to climb down in there, willingly, and stand side by side with those who are caught, those who feel the earth around them falling away. Offer words of encouragement, yes, but offer tangible support as well.
On January 21, when the Million Woman March comes to Washington, D.C., just a 50 minute train ride from Baltimore where I live, I will open my home to a small army of women prepared to descend upon the capital. I will march with them only if they want me to. And I will fight to support equality for women, and offer my body as a shield against the pussy grabbers, the molesters, and the men who would use their power and authority to gaze upon nude 15 year old girls.
I will voice my support for immigrants of all stripes, rejecting the divisive notion that some nations send us better people than other nations. I will pressure politicians to enact and support humane laws. And I will actively work to make my city and my personal home a sanctuary for families facing fracture upon the anvil of deportation.
I will continue to advocate for and aid Native people struggling to maintain and assert their independence in Indian Country, and Native people in urban and suburban America who endure anti-Indian racism on a daily basis so frequent and so casual that perhaps the most shocking thing about it is that hardly anyone is shocked by it.
I will be adamant that we as a nation never return to the sexual dark ages; I will openly recognize that LGBTQ people are our sisters and brothers, mothers and fathers, daughters and sons, lovers and friends, and I will work to ensure they maintain and expand their hard won legal rights and continue to live freely and openly among us.
As a middle class person, I will not ignore the increasingly grim economic reality of a modern America where unskilled and semi-skilled workers of all colors and sexes face not just diminishing opportunities, but also a seemingly endless array of predators and scavengers looking to exploit them.
And I will not become self-satisfied.
I will never believe that I have done enough simply because I publicly condemn racism against brown and black people. Or because I write a check to support a cause. I will never forget that other people can never remove their dark skin and escape into the comfort of majority and power. I will never forget that I have the luxury of not caring, or the luxury of caring deeply yet staying out of harm's way.
As a teacher, as a public writer, and more importantly, as a citizen and human being, I will not only condemn racism and sexism, but I will work towards banishing them by doing the only thing that can free us in the end: building bridges between people.
*
This past Friday night, my girlfriend and I along with another couple blew off some steam at a neighborhood bar in a working class section of Baltimore. The corner row home bar itself reflects the neighborhood it is nestled in. The clientele is mostly white, but not entirely. On Friday, there was a typical crowd: maybe a dozen white men, two black women, plus me and my friends (three of us white, one from India). The owners are a Korean woman and her older white husband.
Everyone was at least in their thirties. All of the other patrons, aside from my group, were decidedly working class. At one point, a guy with no front, bottom teeth told me he had saved up $1,500 so he could go be homeless in Florida this winter. Maybe he was serious, but he was pretty plastered so who knows. He also gave me really good advice about hanging doors.
Some twenty-something whites, who are part of the recent gentrification wave in this neighborhood, wandered at one point. They were excited to be there, perhaps wanting to burnish their street cred. But it was probably a bit too gritty for them, and they were gone after about 20 minutes. They missed the show.
If this bar is emblematic of America's many confusions, contradictions, and conflicts, it could be pinpointed in the owner. She left Korea decades ago, but retains a very thick accent. She voted for Obama the first time, not the second time. She has a very low opinion of politicians generally. She voted for Trump this time, but repeatedly mused that no one knows what the future holds and maybe he'll be assassinated. Based on her face and tone of voice, she neither relished such a prospect, nor would be bothered in the least by it.
For a while, things were copacetic. People drank cheap cans of beer and the occasional shot of soju. Then the fireworks started.
The spark of politics lit the room. I didn't quite catch the pro-Trump moment that ignited it, but soon enough, one of the black women began repeatedly shouting: Fuck Trump, leave it alone! One of the white guys bellowed that this would be the end of welfare. The bartender and her husband tried to dampen the outburts, less out of any real political concern I think, but because it was bad for business.
The initial wave of anger settled down into the occasional grumble. There never seemed to be a threat of physical violence, but the tension and catharsis were very real.
About 20 minutes later, one of the black women, who had a voice of stunning beauty, was singing karaoke arm-in-arm with one of the white guys as many of the patrons got watery eyes.
This is my America, in all its ugliness and beauty, its shame and potential.
Akim Reinhardt's webste is ThePublicProfessor.com.
Jonah Kanner and Alan Weinstein in Nautilus:
At 2:40 a.m., my phone woke me up. At least one of us was always on shift, and that night in September of 2010, I had volunteered to respond to automated text messages from our alert system.
As a graduate student at the time, I (Jonah) had helped build the first quick-response alert software pipeline for two gravitational-wave observatories, called LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory) and Virgo. This system was designed to search for astrophysical signals in data as it arrived, to alert people who could check if a signal seemed valid, and share the message with astronomers around the world if needed. Every alert carried the possibility of a positive detectionhumanitys first direct observation of waves traveling through the fabric of spacetime, predicted by Einstein in 1916.
I got out of bed and made a sleepy-eyed walk to the small workstation we kept in our apartment. I didnt know it, but the alert was the beginning of a professional and emotional rollercoaster. I logged into our event database and started browsing plots. I didnt stay sleepy-eyed for very long. The plots showed an unusually loud signal. More dramatically, the waveform showed the chirp pattern that we were all hoping to see, something characteristic of the gravitational-wave emission from a pair of black holes spiraling together and then merging. The chirp was familiar to me from simulations, but nobody had ever seen one appear naturally. I plugged in headphones and jumped on to a conference call.
Nine of usspread across the United States and Italybegan to talk the results over, wrestling with something too good to be true. Our hearts were racing. We needed to make a fast decision. If this dramatic signal was some kind of mistake, then there was no need for it to go further. After about 30 minutes of discussion, we agreed that the signal seemed valid, and pushed a button that spurred a collection of robotic telescopes to swing their gaze to the source location. Our log notes, usually dry, captured what we were all thinking that night: Exciting!!!!! Very strong significant event
More here.
Everything is an art perfect material was the mantra of Bay Area conceptual artist David Ireland (1930-2009), who spent more than 30 years transforming his sprawling 1886 Victorian house in the Mission into a living work of art, home to some of his best-known sculptures, drawings, and furniture designs. Starting on January 15, fans of Ireland's work may visit his home and see it all for themselves.
Upon the artist's death in 2009, the 500 Capp Street Foundation was established to oversee the preservation of David Ireland House and the study of Ireland's work. This week, the ongoing restoration project celebrates its completion with an exhibit in honor of the home's reopening, as well as special events including artist talks, a Champagne christening, and dance performances.
The 3,000-piece collection of David Ireland House, which captures the internationally renowned artists whimsical and freethinking approach to the process of making art, will be open for public viewing, along with various photographs and other paraphernalia, such as glass jars filled with the dust of the home's previously sanded floors and dirt from the old boarded-up windows. German and Norwegian holiday breads, given to Ireland by friends visiting from abroad, are affixed to the walls; and the Collection of Brooms with Boom is arranged in the formation of a clock as a statement on the fleeting life cycle of everyday household objects.
Tours are booking up fast. While supplies last, you may also snag your very own piece of the house, a section of wall in poster form, compliments of Southern Exposure and The Thing Quarterly. General admission to the house is $20. Check online for more information and special events. // David Ireland House, 500 Capp St. (Mission), 500cappstreet.org
Now that the weather has taken a turn for the worse, youll be in need of indoor adventures. So, pick one (or two, or three) of these East Bay staples and enjoy a brew and some bar bites inside with friends. This list only includes Berkeley and Oakland, but the East Bay has so many more breweries up and down the coast. Feel free to add your favorites in the comments.
1. The Rare Barrel, Berkeley
Rare Barrel had a cult following even before they opened their doors last December. This sour-only brewery is dishing up delicious brews and rotating their taps weekly. As of right now you can only find their beers inside the tasting room, and only in 10 oz. pours. Seven beers are available so far, and each one is complex and delicious. Go for the Wise Guise, a red sour beer aged in oak barrels with raspberries (it's so good) or try the single-barrel release Cosmic Dust, a golden sour beer aged in oak barrels with hibiscus (it tastes like boozy jamaica - the agua fresca, not the country), before it runs out. The tasting room is open Fridays and Saturdays, and can be a little hard to find its pretty set back from the street at the end of a long parking lot. And dont forget to bring a sweater; the whole place is kept at barrel aging temperature, aka cold.
The Rare Barrel: Open Friday 4-10 p.m. and Saturday 2-10 p.m., 40 Parker St, Berkeley.
2. Linden Street Brewery, Oakland
If youre looking for some East Bay pride with your beer head to Linden Street Brewery and order the Town Lager. Served only on draft in Oakland (seriously, you can't drink this beer in the city), this brew is suitable for all occasions. Made in the same fashion as the Gold Rush pioneers, Linden Street uses lager yeast, but its fermented at ale temperatures so that its naturally carbonated and unfiltered. Bonus points: Linden Street transports all its products to local bars in a custom-made bicycle that can hold two kegs at a time. Open on Saturday and Sunday from Noon to 5:00 p.m., the tasting room is the perfect place to cheer on your favorite East Bay team.
Linden Street Brewery: Open Saturday - Sunday, 12:00 - 5:00 p.m., 95 Linden Street, Suite 7, Oakland
3. Jupiter, Berkeley
In the heart of downtown Berkeley, Jupiters outdoor patio and solid selection of house craft beers (along with 20 other local brews) keeps the bar packed on any night of the week with locals and Cal students alike. Jupiter even has gluten-free beer on tap (it is Berkeley, after all), but its home-brewed Honey Wheat stands out for the sweet aftertaste of locally grown wild honey. Pair it with one of their wood-fired pizzas and you have tasty dinner plans for any night of the week.
Jupiter: Open Monday Thursday 11:30a.m. 1 a.m., Friday, 11:30 a.m. -1:30 a.m., Saturday 12:00 p.m. 1:30a.m., and Sunday 12:00 p.m. Midnight., 2181 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley
4. Triple Rock, Berkeley
Served only by the liter and just one day a week, the Monkey Head Arboreal Ale makes Triple Rock the place to be on a Thursday night. The warming, bottle-conditioned, malty amber ale with a slight hop bite and clean finish is perfect for sharing with friends, just make sure to get there early. Founded in 1985, Triple Rock is the nation's oldest original brewpub, and co-owners/ brothers John and Reid Martin, are considered the founding fathers of the industry. Unsurprisingly, their beers have the taste of something well aged to perfection.
Open Monday - Wednesday 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 a.m., Thursday - Saturday 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 a.m., Sunday 11:30 a.m. - Midnight., 1920 Shattuck Avenue
5. Pacific Coast Brewing Co., Oakland
Perfect for the adventurous drinker, the Pacific Coast brewpub offers more than 24 beers on tap, only a third of which are their own. You can't go wrong with the Killer Whaler Stout or the Blue Whale Ale, but we're really looking forward to the Mermaid's Revenge, a Belgian triple-ale coming out this year. Pacific Coast is also furnished with old treasures acquired from the Oakland Museum, including an elaborate stained-glass window, an ornate bar, and a vintage bar cooler. Having a beer here is the closest youll ever come to Oakland in its glory days. Hit them up on the first Friday of the month when they hold a reception for a featured artist with live music from 7:30 - 11:00 p.m. or on Lazy Sunday with live music from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Pacific Coast Brewing: Open Monday-Thursday, 11:30-12:00 a.m., Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. -1:00 a.m., and Sundays 11:00am-11:00 p.m., 906 Washington St., Oakland
6. Pyramid Alehouse, Berkeley
Pyramid was founded in the Pacific Northwest, but set up shop in a warehouse in Berkeley in 1997. You must try the Apricot Ale on tap it is even more refreshing and delicious than it is in bottle form but, for any other day go with the classic Single Hop IPA, it's unique to the Berkeley location and pairs perfectly with any of the hearty burgers on the menu. It's a pretty robust beer, though, so grab some appetizers and enjoy the ride.
Pyramid: Open Monday - Thursday 11:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m., Friday 11:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m., Saturday 11:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m., Sunday 11:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.., 901 Gilman St
7. Sierra Nevada, Berkeley
The newest addition to Berkeley's happening 4th Street, The Torpedo Room at Sierra Nevada features rare, small-batch Sierra Nevada beers you won't find anywhere else among its 16 different taps. Grab a flight and the bartenders will be happy to walk you through what brought each beer to life, down to the barley kernels. Every Thursday they offer a special taste of a unique cask with local brewmasters from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m., and keep an eye on the calendar for more special events.
Torpedo Room: Open Tuesday - Thursday 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m., Friday - Saturday 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., 2031 4th Street, Berkeley
Picking the best neighborhood in Portland is completely subjective. Want great food? Portland has it. How about state-of-the-art public transportation? Check. But you can't have it all, or at least not all at the same time. Choosing your neighborhood comes down to priorities. Willing to take a lively nightlife with a little more crime? Or live in a boring neighborhood that will make your dog or kids happy? This guide will help you decide.
Best Public Transit: DOWNTOWN
Downtown is an easy choice for the public-transit obsessed, and it's no mystery why. Downtown Portland is the public transportation pride and joy for a city consistently ranked of one of the best in the country for car-less citizens. If you're downtown, you're within easy walking distance of one of downtown's 32 bus lines, as well as streetcar and four high-speed rail MAX lines. Walk, ride or pedal to the Portland Transit Mall that runs 20 blocks along 5th and 6th streets and you'll gain access to a spider web of bus, streetcar and Max routes that lead to every corner of the city. But it gets better: Downtown is part of Portland's "Free Rail Zone," which runs through downtown and across the Willamette River to the Lloyd District. Take a Max ride within those boundaries and it won't cost a dime. That's just one more reason that Portland's car-less commuter website Portland Afoot notes 75 percent of people who live downtown don't own a car.
Runner-Up: HOLLYWOOD: Four bus lines and three Max lines make Hollywood the best mass transit neighborhood outside of Downtown and adjacent areas.
Photo by Flickr user ilovemypit
Best for Foodies: PEARL DISTRICT
Every neighborhood in Portland is peppered with great restaurants, but for concentrated excellence you have to go with the upscale Pearl. Even the notoriously brutal Portland Yelp scene grudgingly gives the geographically small Pearl 42 restaurants with at least four of five stars. And the beauty of the Pearl is that it has everything, whether its epic Peruvian tapas at Andina, Portland's nicest brewpub in Deschutes Brewery and Public House, uber-hip French/Italian cuisine at Blue Hour or ridiculously good ice cream at Cool Moon.
Runner-Up: CLINTON-RICHMOND: Not everybody can afford the Pearl. For more reasonable fare check out this Southeast neighborhood containing a beloved stretch of Division Street boasting Portland's best fried chicken at dive bar Reel M Inn, taste-bud-popping Thai at Pok Pok, the genteel pub fare Portland does best at Sunshine Tavern and the beer-sausage-spaetzle heaven of Victory Bar. Photo by Flickr user ghindo
Best Culture: CONCORDIA
Home to the ever-funky Alberta Street, this northeast neighborhood will always keep you entertained. The heart of the east side's arts culture, Alberta is full of galleries promoted by Art on Alberta, strange little coffee shops, boutiques, bars, restaurants, music venues and other oddities. It's also home to Last Thursday, Portland's monthly summertime celebration of its own weirdness. Meanwhile Concordia is caught in the midst of its increasingly controversial gentrification programs, leaving it an interesting mix of races and socioeconomic identities.
Runner-Up: SUNNYSIDE-HAWTHORNE: A narrow southeast strip centered on the militantly local business and bar districts of Hawthorne Boulevard and SE Belmont Avenue, Sunnyside-Hawthorne is the punk rock cousin to Alberta's hippie artists. Photo by Flickr user Evil Erin
Best for Families: HEALY HEIGHTS
With nearby elementary, middle and high schools all ranked "outstanding" by Oregon Department of Education's 2009-10 performance assessment, this tiny southwest neighborhood offers great education for kids of all ages. It's a stable, family-oriented neighborhood with nearly 90 percent home ownership and 77 percent of the population married, according to the 2010 Census Population Map.
Runner-Up: SYLVAN-HIGHLANDS: Sylvan-Highlands comes in second, also with "outstanding" schools in all classes, 86 percent home ownership and 62 percent married. Photo by Flickr user frozenchipmunk
Best to Be Young and Single: NORTHWEST The math for the young singles is simple the more other young singles nearby, the better. And in this category the tightly packed Northwest neighborhood reigns supreme. U.S. Census numbers speak for themselves here: 80 percent single, median age 34. It's also easy to find all those other young, beautiful singles. They're either shopping on NW 23rd Avenue or eating and drinking on NW 21st Avenue.
Runner-Up: BOISE: For a similar experience, look at the Boise neighborhood across the river in Northeast, with 78 percent of residents single, a median age of 30 and an up-and-coming stretch of N Mississippi Avenue. Photo by Flickr user firepile
Best for Pets: TABOR The Tabor neighborhood is named for Mount Tabor, a 630-foot-tall cinder cone covered by a 190-acre park of trails, woods, open spaces and reservoirs. Your dog will thank you for living here, especially because of the park's large, well-maintained off-leash area that's usually full of other friendly dogs and people. Meanwhile the highly rated Mt. Tabor Veterinary Care is close at hand, as are popular pet shops Portland Pet Supply and For Paws.
Runner-Up: SELLWOOD-MORELAND: Active dog lovers in particular will be happy here in the summer. You can take the puppy for a run and swim in the Willamette at Sellwood Riverfront Park, then go out for a beer with your K-9 at nearby Lucky Labrador Brewing Company.
Safest: HEALY HEIGHTS The Portland Police Bureau's clumsy but nevertheless useful CrimeMapper application shows what most Portlanders already know: The city is safer the farther you get from its core around the Willamette River, and the Portland's south end is generally safer than the north. The pastoral, quiet Healy Heights neighborhood followed this trend on the southwest side of Portland with less than one crime per 1,000 people last year.
Runner-Up: BEAUMONT-WILSHIRE: Nearby, the Arnold Creek neighborhood is technically second with three crimes per 1,000 people, but the woods and hills aren't for everyone. For a safe neighborhood closer in, try the old, well-established Beaumont-Wilshire area, which has just 19 crimes per 1,000 and features a happening stretch of Fremont Street.
Other Neighborhood Notes
Best Access to Nature: Forest Park, with its backyard access to the nation's largest urban park and an easy hop onto Highway 26, which will get you to the Oregon Coast and the 11,240-foot-tall Mount Hood both in less than 90 minutes.
Best for Cyclists: St. Johns, with 23 miles of bike lanes.
Youngest: Glenfair (median age 28)
Oldest: Hayden Island (median age 53)
Biggest Price Dip: Homestead (down 39 percent from last year)
Biggest Price Spike: Hayden Island (up 27 percent from last year)
Most Dangerous: The Lloyd neighborhood had more than one crime per person last year, with 1,086 crimes per 1,000 residents. The Northwest Industrial neighborhood was technically worse, but with only 23 residents its numbers aren't really meaningful. Regardless, you probably don't want to wander around either one at night. By Joe Hansen
The rewards of caring for a loved one who needs our help can be substantial. Its an opportunity to pay something back, to offer a return on the loving investment someone once made in us. Its a chance to help preserve a quality life for an individual who has a tough time completing lifes daily tasks. Its the joy of knowing that we are easing someones way, lifting burdens and making sure they are not alone.
Family caregivers lovingly offer their help free of charge, contributing their time, their energy and often their own well-being. What they do is of incalculable emotional value and of enormous social worth.
In the past, AARP has tallied what society would be paying for the labor that family caregivers so willingly donate: In 2013, about 40 million family caregivers provided 37 billion hours of care worth an estimated $470 billion to their parents, spouses, partners and other adult loved ones.
The total estimated economic value of uncompensated care provided by family caregivers in 2013 surpassed total Medicaid spending ($449 billion) and nearly equaled the annual sales ($469 billion) of the four largest U.S. tech companies combined (Apple, Hewlett-Packard, IBM and Microsoft).
What we havent included in the calculations before is the significant amount of money family caregivers often spend out of their own pockets as part of their contribution. A new AARP study, Family Caregiving and Out-of-Pocket Costs: 2016 Report, estimates that family caregivers spend an average of $6,954 on out-of-pocket costs related to caregiving, nearly 20 percent of their annual income.
Out-of-pocket spending is even higher among Hispanic/Latino caregivers ($9,022 annually, representing 44 percent of their income). African American caregivers report costs similar to white caregivers, but that amounts to a much greater percentage of income 34 percent vs. 14 percent.
To cover the extra expense, many family caregivers have to pare back their own spending. They cut back on saving for retirement, leisure spending, eating out and vacations, and many have dipped into personal or retirement savings. See the full report at www.aarp.org/caregivercosts.
Clearly, family caregivers could use a break. The bipartisan Credit for Caring Act would help give them some of the financial breathing room they need, with a federal tax credit of up to $3,000 for those who are eligible. AARP and other national organizations are supporting this bill.
Each of us has the opportunity to give caregivers other measures of relief by making a meal, doing the laundry, running an errand, raking leaves any warm, friendly assistance that shortens their endless to-do lists.
They deserve and appreciate everything we can give them.
SD Secretary of State office says Smith remedied campaign finance mistake
Rep. Jamie Smith's campaign originally did not include the mailing addresses of his donors in violation of campaign finance law.
IndexBox has just published a new report World: Iodine Market Report. Analysis And Forecast To 2020.
This report has been designed to provide a detailed analysis of the global iodine market. It covers the most recent data sets of quantitative medium-term projections, as well as developments in production, trade, consumption and prices.
The global iodine trade value exhibited robust growth from 2007 to 2013, suddenly reversing the trend in 2014. After a sharp decline over the last two years, global exports of iodine amounted to 878 million USD in 2015.
According to IndexBox estimates, Chile continued to supply over half of worlds iodine. In 2015, Chiles iodine exports totaled 506 million USD, which accounted for a 58% share in terms of global exports. Belgium, Japan, USA, and the Netherlands were the other key global suppliers of iodine in 2015, with a 35% combined share of global exports.
The Netherlands (+11.2% per year) and Belgium (+10.3% per year) were the fastest growing exporters from 2007 to 2015. Belgium strengthened its position in the global iodine export structure, growing its share from 11% in 2007 to 15% in 2015.
On the other hand, USA (17.5%, based on value terms), China (13.7%), India (9.3%), Norway (8.8%), and Belgium (8.6%) were the leading destinations of iodine imports in 2015. Imports to Norway grew at a rapid pace of +9.6% per year from 2007 to 2015. None of the major importers contracted their imports over the period under review. The share size of the top five importers remained relatively stable, with the exception of the USA, which saw a -6 percentage point decline in its share size.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 REPORT DESCRIPTION
1.2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
2.1 KEY FINDINGS
2.2 MARKET TRENDS
3. MARKET OVERVIEW
3.1 MARKET VOLUME AND VALUE
3.2 CONSUMPTION BY COUNTRY
3.3 MARKET OPPORTUNITIES BY COUNTRY
3.4 MARKET FORECAST TO 2020
4. PRODUCTION
4.1 PRODUCTION IN 2007-2015
4.2 PRODUCTION BY COUNTRY
5. IMPORTS
5.1 IMPORTS IN 2007-2015
5.2 IMPORTS BY COUNTRY
5.3 IMPORT PRICES BY COUNTRY
6. EXPORTS
6.1 EXPORTS IN 2007-2015
6.2 EXPORTS BY COUNTRY
6.3 EXPORT PRICES BY COUNTRY
7. PROFILES OF MAJOR PRODUCERS
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Crater Gold Mining Limited (ASX:CGN) is engaged in the exploration, evaluation and exploitation of gold and other base metal projects. The Company's segments include Croydon, Fergusson Island and Crater Mountain. The Croydon project consists of two sub-projects in far North West Queensland, the Croydon Polymetallic Project and the Croydon Gold Project. The Fergusson Island project consists of two gold exploration projects at Wapolu and Gameta on Fergusson Island, in Milne Bay province, Papua New Guinea. The Gameta Deposit lies within exploration license (EL) 1972. It is located on the northeast coast of Fergusson Island. The Wapolu Deposit lies within EL 2180. The Crater Mountain is an exploration and production project located in the Papua New Guinea Highlands approximately 50 kilometers southwest of Goroka. The project consists of three contiguous ELs, straddling the border between the Chimbu and Eastern Highland Provinces.
Invigor secures two new contracts for Insights Visitor
Sydney, Nov 14, 2016 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Leading big data solutions company Invigor Group Limited ( ASX:IVO ) ("Invigor") is pleased to announce the continued rollout of its Insights Visitor platform into locations with major consumer traffic flows.
- Iconic Sydney CBD Shopping precinct deploys Insights Visitor through OneWifi partnership
- Zoos Victoria trials Insights Visitor at all of its three zoos in Victoria
- Six new Insights Visitor contracts secured in four months
- Substantial revenue opportunity from media placement using Insights Visitor
- Pipeline for Insights Visitor continues growing rapidly with new contracts pending
Insights Visitor has been successfully deployed into the retail and dining areas of a major iconic Sydney CBD Shopping precinct, the name of which remains confidential at this time. Together with WiFi installed and operated by OneWiFi (operating as Infrastructure Logic Pty Ltd), a leading managed WiFi service provider, Invigor will provide managers and marketing staff with real-time analytics and insights into the behaviours, interests and activities of visitors to this iconic Sydney CBD shopping precinct.
The Insights Visitor platform provides an understanding into who is frequenting the shops and dining venues, how long they stay there, and which areas they visit. This information can then be used to shape marketing initiatives and in-centre activities to deliver a better visitor experience.
Invigor is also pleased to announce that Zoos Victoria, which includes Melbourne Zoo, Werribee Open Plains Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary, will trial Insights Visitor on their WiFi network to better understand patron movements within and between their zoos. A detailed understanding of how visitors connect with the zoos will enable Zoos Victoria to better engage with patrons and improve their experience.
The opportunity to generate significant revenue using our Insights Visitor platform gathers apace. Manly Wharf is the first substantial project where we are rolling out our engagement model with retailers and we are also now speaking with advertisers who can see the potential of being able to reach their audience more effectively rather than using more traditional means.
Invigor's Chairman and CEO, Mr Gary Cohen, said: "It is encouraging to note that Insights Visitor has been deployed as the WiFi analytics and engagement platform at this iconic Sydney CBD shopping precinct - a major CBD attraction for tourists and local shoppers. This significantly strengthens Invigor's presence in the retail sector, and gives us an added advantage when tendering for other major retail shopping precincts.
"These two new contracts reflect the ongoing and rapid sign up of our Visitor platform to high profile locations with significant foot traffic such as Manly Wharf, Preston Markets, the Sunshine Coast Council precinct and Moore Park Supa Centa. In the last four months, we have secured six new Visitor contracts alone and our pipeline of tenders is building rapidly. We will report on additional wins very shortly. Further, we are now seeing a real opportunity to monetise the use of such venues with our engagement model."
About Invigor Group Ltd
Invigor Group (ASX:IVO) uses its complementary suite of big data products to source, aggregate, analyse and publish content for the benefit of businesses and consumers.
Today its interconnected data sets enable enterprise clients including retailers, brands, shopping centres and government bodies to identify and better understand competitors, consumers, markets and demographics while providing the consumer with the best value-for-money.
Using its current products and a pipeline of additional offerings Invigor will have the ability to provide an end-to-end solution spanning sales, product management, business intelligence, marketing, advertising, content creation and distribution, while monetising each step of the process.
CCV 1st QTR Update FY2017
Perth, Nov 14, 2016 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Cash Converters International Limited ( ASX:CCV ) ( LON:CCVU ) ( CKKIF:OTCMKTS ) ('the Company') is pleased to provide the following trading and performance update based on the first quarter unaudited results for the 2017 financial year.
The net profit for the period was $6.3 million and is in line with the Company forecast. The first quarter result benefits from the timing of interest earned on higher loan volumes written in the second half of the previous year. The Company confirms guidance previously given to the market of full year 2017 NPAT being in the range of $20.0 to $23.0 million.
Financial results summary - first quarter
Highlights
- Net profit after tax $6.3 million
- EBITDA profit $13.1 million
- Key strategy initiatives well advanced and within budget
- Cash converters UK (CCUK) returned to profit for the quarter generating an EBITDA of $383.7K
- CCUK has generated $6.5m of cash from the personal loan book wind down
Strategy implementation and results
Cash Converters continues to advance the implementation of the three year corporate strategy and associated restructure announced to the market earlier in the year.
- In the United Kingdom, the Company has exited its corporate owned stores and is operating as the master franchisor. It is also winding down the United Kingdom personal loan book and expects to have that closed by December 2016. Lending ceased from 31 May 2016. CCUK has since returned $6.5m of cash to the parent Company. CCUK produced an EBITDA profit of $383.7K, for the quarter.
- In Australia, Carboodle has been closed and Green Light Auto Finance (GLAF) started. The focus of the business is to provide a car loan product rather than a complete car package. Early loan advances of the new vehicle finance company's principal and loan interest product have been encouraging. GLAF produced an EBITDA loss of $69.0K for the quarter.
- As advised previously, we have decided to reduce our small amount lending to a number of customer segments which will impact our overall SACC (Small Amount Credit Contract) loan volumes in Australia. This strategy has been implemented in the first quarter and lending volumes are down approximately 30%. This reduction has impacted profit accordingly, however the first quarter has benefited from interest earned from higher loan volumes written in the second half of last year.
The Australian business produced an EBITDA profit of $12.6 million down 30.4% on the corresponding quarter in 2016.
- To help offset this reduction in profit a new loan product, the MACC (Medium Amount Credit Contract) being a loan ranging in value from $2K to $5K was released to the market on 17 October 2016.
Search for Independent non-executive directors
The Company has engaged worldwide executive search firm Heidrick & Struggles to commence a search for two Independent non-executive directors to join the Board. It is anticipated that process will be completed within the next quarter.
Outlook
Managing Director Peter Cumins said: "We are making good progress with the implementation of the new corporate strategy we announced earlier this year. The key changes to our businesses in the United Kingdom and Australia are proceeding as planned and within our estimated budget. We are well positioned financially and we expect demand for our well established retail and pawn broking services to remain solid".
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About Cash Converters International Ltd
Cash Converters International (ASX:CCV) is a franchised retail network listed on the ASX. It specialises in the sale of second-hand goods. The Cash Converters group employs modern retailing practices, professional management techniques and high ethical standards to the management of its stores throughout the chain which appeal to a wide cross section of the community. As a result, Cash Converters has been able to position its outlets as credible retail merchandise stores, resulting in a profitable market for the group.
EY announced on Monday that their annualEY Vantage program- which sees some of the firm's top professionals travel abroad to aid entrepreneurs at no fee - has concluded for the year.
Twenty-eight EY professionals donated over 6,700 hours of service this year - a figure equivalent to over $2.5 million in services - to help entrepreneurs in developing economies.
Now in its 12thyear, the EY Vantage program has seen a total of 147 advisors from EY Americas member firms collaborate with 145 entrepreneurs. The program works in collaboration withEndeavor Global, a non-profit organization that helps in mentoring entrepreneurs around the world.
Since its inception, EY Vantage has made a positive impact for the entrepreneurs we have supported, as well as for the up-and-coming EY leaders who have taken part in the program, stated Deborah Holmes, EY Americas Director of Corporate Responsibility. Our hope is that EY Vantage can serve as a catalyst for sustainable growth in countries with emerging economies where cultivating entrepreneurship can have a lasting effect on society. At the same time, we are engaging our top professionals through this transformative international experience which aims to develop leadership skills and a global mindset.
During the programs six-week assignments, EY professionals work on projects ranging from market expansions, internal auditing, work flow, and the development of business plans. The Advisors, in turn, get to learn firsthand about the emerging markets and industries in which they are working.
I feel lucky to be an EY Vantage Advisor and to work for a purpose-led organization that offers skills-based, international volunteerism programs," said Rose Martin, an EY advisory manager and Vantage Program volunteer, per a statement. "Traveling to a foreign country alone to work with a high-impact entrepreneur challenged me both personally and professionally. The experience was difficult at times, and ultimately incredibly rewarding. I returned with greater confidence in my skills and leadership abilities, and have already noticed my enhanced global mindset coming into play with colleagues and clients who I encounter regularly working for a large global organization.
Notably, the Vantage program expanded its reach at the beginning of the year to include new cities in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, and Uruguay, bringing the total number of countries served to 30.
For more on the EY Vantage program, head to EY's site here.
Millions of Indians across 17 cities can now monitor the air quality they breathe with a single Tweet. @TwitterIndia in partnership with non-profit data journalism initiative, @IndiaSpend have launched #Breathe, an independent and real-time air quality monitoring public service initiative on Twitter.
By Tweeting #Breathe , people can access air quality levels in Agra, Ahmedabad, Allahabad, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Delhi NCR, Gandhinagar, Kanpur, Lucknow, Mumbai, Pune, Patna, Raipur, Ranchi and Varanasi. On Tweeting, people will get an immediate visual auto-response Tweet in the form of an infographic card with a measurement of the air quality -- comprising Air Quality Index, air quality levels, reading of particulate matter 2.5 and 10, along with the possible impact this air quality will have on health.
#Breathe is a public service initiative aimed at leveraging technology to provide citizens, institutions, media and civil society organizations with real-time data to catalyze participative engagement within communities, municipalities, state and central government. With this hashtag service, Twitter aims to empower citizens by increasing public awareness about the alarming rise in air pollution levels across major cities in India. Since the initial launch phase in April on #EarthDay, people in Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore have been able to monitor the air quality in their neighbourhoods. The pilot of this launch recorded 100,000 Tweets for the month of April 2016.
Speaking on the initiative, a Twitter spokesperson said, With #Breathe, Twitter is democratising access to air pollution data to empower Indians with awareness and knowledge that can help them make healthier living decisions. As pollution levels continue to rise at an alarming rate, we are partnering with IndiaSpend to democratize AQI data & put it in peoples hands. Our platform has evolved as a daily utility service for citizens and continues to be the best place to know what is happening right now.
Govindraj Ethiraj, founder of IndiaSpend said, #Breathe was launched in 2015 as a pure sensor and data journalism initiative using low-cost indigenously-developed monitoring devices. In the absence of independent real-time data to provide substance for IndiaSpends editorial efforts, we set up a network of monitoring stations. Clean air is a public good and every citizen in this country is entitled to this basic right. Dialogue on issues that matter to rule of law and basic governance when grounded in data and backed by facts will change the discourse and hopefully result in effective and transparent policies.
In its endeavour to support citizens in times of need, in January 2016 Twitter India also partnered with Delhi Transport Department (@TransportDelhi) during the odd-even car driving experiment to launch #PollutionFreeDelhi service. The initiative focused on enabling users with real-time info for bus and metro route options, traffic updates, and weather conditions. Twitter was able to support Delhi citizens in making the #PollutionFreeDelhi a success, adding another milestone to its daily utility service in India.
PNB MetLife, one of the leading private life insurers in the country, won the 2016 Working Mother and AVTAR 100 Best Company for Women award at the Working Mother Medias Global Advancement of Women Conference held in Mumbai on November 10, 2016. The company won the award for their women friendly policies towards creating a women enabling workforce by empowering them and building inclusive work environment for their growth in the organization.
PNB MetLife is at the forefront of implementing women friendly policies like flexi timing and flexi work place policy, maternity leave policy for duration of 26 weeks, educational assistance program and exclusive hospital tie-ups, amongst others. The company started its Diversity & Inclusion journey in 2014 and has achieved significantly in a span of 4 years. Recently, the company launched the Equal Employment Opportunity Policy for its employees. The policy aims at providing equal access to employment opportunities for employees and applicants and administering all terms, conditions and privileges of employment fairly.
Elizabeth Nieto, Senior Vice President, Global Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer, MetLife said, Globally, MetLife is committed to creating an environment of inclusion where all employees can contribute to their full potential and work in an atmosphere of mutual respect. The attraction, development and retention of women are critical aspects towards achieving this goal. We have made it to the Working Mother 100 Best Companies List in the U.S and are extremely proud to win this award for our Indian joint venture as well. Gender diversity will continue to remain a top priority for us at MetLife.
Tim Braswell, Director Human Resources, PNB MetLife India said, We are very happy to receive the 2016 Working Mother and AVTAR 100 best company for women award. This award is a testimony of our efforts towards providing equal opportunities and an enabling work environment for all the women in the organization. At PNB MetLife, we believe it is important to empower women to perform to the best of their ability and work towards the achievement of the organizations goals. This platform has provided us an opportunity to showcase our policies and best practices towards building a diverse workforce across the organization.
The 2016 Working Mother and AVTAR 100 Best Companies is an extensive research driven process which includes application with more than 400 questions on leave policies, workforce representation, benefits, childcare, advancement programs, flexibility policies and more. It surveys the availability and usage of programs, as well as the accountability of managers who oversee them. In selecting this years winning companies, particular weight was given to representation of women, advancement programs and flexibility.
Analysis Group, one of the largest private economics consulting firms in North America, has been recognized as among the Top 100 Women-Led Businesses in Massachusetts for the fourth consecutive year. The state-wide evaluation, conducted by a partnership between The Boston Globe Magazine and The Commonwealth Institute (TCI), ranked Analysis Group 18th in Massachusetts.
This is the fourth year that TCI a non-profit organization devoted to advancing businesswomen in leadership positions has created the list together with The Boston Globe Magazine. The full list of top 100 women-led businesses in Massachusetts is available at The Boston Globe.
About Analysis Group:
Analysis Group is one of the largest private economics consulting firms in North America, with more than 700 professionals across 11 offices in the United States, Canada, and China. Since 1981, we have provided expertise in economics, finance, health care analytics, and strategy to top law firms, Fortune 500 companies, and government agencies. Our internal experts, together with our network of affiliated experts from academia, industry, and government, offer our clients exceptional depth of expertise.
View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20161114005965/en/
Analysis Group
Sue Brelus, 617-425-8193
susan.brelus@analysisgroup.com
RALEIGH, N.C., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Clean Design, an award-winning branding + advertising agency, today announced it has been named agency of record for Affordable Care as the national dental support organization looks to expand and improve its dentist recruitment marketing. Affordable Care supports a network of more than 230 affiliated Affordable Dentures and Affordable Dentures & Implants practices in 39 states. Clean Design will provide branding, overall marketing strategy and creative services to support dentist recruitment efforts within Affordable Care.
An integral part of the Affordable Care offering is its practice ownership program, a 360-degree business support system that offers resources to help dentists open and maintain their own successful practices. The company provides support for nonclinical duties, including recruiting and human resources, advertising and marketing, real estate and equipment upgrades, and IT services.
"Affordable Care has revolutionized the tooth replacement industry with a unique, same-day business model ideally suited to both patients and dentists across the country," said Clean Design CEO Natalie Perkins. "Our team looks forward to partnering with their recruitment team to help further solidify their market leadership position."
"As we continue to grow our affiliated practice network, we need an agency that can help craft and shape our vision," said Matt McCallum, Affordable Care senior director of recruiting. "With an impressive team and a reputation for innovative, spot-on strategy, Clean Design was the right fit to help guide us as we work to better understand the benefits our practice owners enjoy, so we can align dentist recruitment with our accelerated growth plans."
Founded in 1975, Affordable Dentures & Implants affiliates have treated more than 6 million patients for dentures, dental implants, and other tooth replacement options. Headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina, Affordable Care is owned by private equity firm Berkshire Partners LLC.
About Clean Design
Clean Design is an award-winning brand + design agency with a diverse client portfolio featuring Red Hat, Lenovo, Yadkin Bank, Builders Mutual, UNC Kenan-Flagler, and Durham Distillery. Ranked the #1 design firm in the Triangle for the past seven years, the agency offers integrated marketing solutions including branding, advertising, digital marketing, graphic design, public relations, media planning, and content. A woman-owned business, Clean Design has been awarded HUB certification by the State of North Carolina.
cleandesign.com
CONTACT: Alyson Stanely, 1-919-719-4510, astanley@cleandesign.com
To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/clean-design-named-agency-of-record-for-affordable-cares-recruitment-brand-300362318.html
SOURCE Clean Design
AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- A new nonprofit foundation is joining the fight to protect Texas fish and wildlife for future generations. A group of prominent Texans have created the Texas Foundation for Conservation, dedicated to ensuring the people of Texas will always have abundant and healthy fish and wildlife to enjoy. The foundation launched with an event in Austin on Monday, Nov. 14 called "Ensuring the Wild Conservation Summit." Attended by approximately 100 conservationists and community leaders from across Texas, topics of discussion included impending threats to native fish and wildlife, the role of the private landowner and the agricultural community in conservation, history of the North American Model for Wildlife Conservation, and the public trust doctrine.
"Those who love Texas fish and wildlife are increasingly concerned about the threat of privatization," said Dr. Fred Bryant, director of the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute at Texas A&M University-Kingsville and president of Texas Foundation for Conservation. "Native fish and wildlife are no different than our beaches and waterwaysthey belong to all Texans. We strongly believe our wild natural resources belong to the people of Texas, and we're committed to engaging Texans in efforts to ensure that the fish and wildlife we all treasure will be around for our kids and grandkids."
Privatization occurs when ownership of a public resource is transferred to a private individual or corporation. Potential negative consequences of privatization include unrestricted harvest without regard to natural life cycles of fish and wildlife resources, spread of disease, conflicts between neighboring landowners, inconsistent or non-existent regulatory frameworks, genetic manipulations of species, failure to conserve resources for future generations, and consumption of the resource for short-term gain, rather than long-term management.
The new foundation is committed to supporting the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, which has proven to be the most successful conservation model in the world. The public trust doctrine is an essential cornerstone of the North American Model, as it establishes a trustee relationship obligating government to hold and manage fish and wildlife for the benefit of all Texans, present and future.
Private property rights are another key element of successful wildlife management, particularly in states like Texas, where 95% of land is privately held. Private landowners play a critical role in managing the fish and wildlife that belong to all Texans. The Texas Foundation for Conservation believes that publicly-owned native fish and wildlife on privately-owned land represents an ideal arrangement.
"Ensuring the Wild Conservation Summit" brought together local, national and international experts to discuss these issues, including keynote speaker Shane Mahoney, president and CEO of Conservation Visions, an internationally recognized voice for conservation.
"The North American Model is based fundamentally on the principle of public ownership of wildlife and is the very foundation of our conservation successes in the United States and Canada, two countries which now enjoy abundant wildlife, though many common species were on the brink of extinction in the early 20th century," Mahoney said. "The pressure to privatize wildlife is growing, and we've already seen the negative impacts of these efforts in other parts of North America. The Texas conservationists who are drawing the public's attention to this fundamental wildlife issue are doing a great service to their state and to their country."
Recent threats to privatize wildlife in Texas have galvanized the effort to inform and educate the public about the North American Model and the public trust doctrine. The board of the Texas Foundation for Conservation is composed of a diverse group of Texans from across the state who are concerned about protecting the public trust doctrine. Honorary trustees include Nolan Ryan (Georgetown), The Hon. Kay Bailey Hutchinson (Dallas) and The Hon. Pete Laney (Hale Center).
For more information about the Texas Foundation for Conservation or to get involved, visit http://www.texasfoundationforconservation.org/.
About the Texas Foundation for Conservation
The Texas Foundation for Conservation is a diverse group of Texans from across the state who are concerned about impending threats to privatize Texas native fish and wildlife. The Foundation was created to raise the profile of this critical conservation issue, and increase awareness of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. The public trust doctrine is an essential cornerstone of the North American Model as it establishes a trustee relationship obligating government to hold and manage fish and wildlife for the benefit of current and future Texans. Honorary trustees include Nolan Ryan (Georgetown), The Hon. Kay Baily Hutchinson (Dallas) and The Hon. Pete Laney (Hale Center.) For more information, please visit http://www.texasfoundationforconservation.org/
Contact: Heath Riddles or Lia Truitt
512-472-9599
hriddles@echristianpr.com or ltruitt@echristianpr.com
To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-foundation-seeks-to-ensure-texas-fish-and-wildlife-for-future-generations-300362202.html
SOURCE Texas Foundation for Conservation
Shopko, a $3 billion retailer with more than 375 stores in 26 states, and First Bankcard, a division of First National Bank of Omaha and a leading issuer of credit cards, announce the launch of Shopkos first private label credit card program.
The new Shopko Credit Card, which can be used at any Shopko throughout the United States, will offer discounts, periodic deferred interest promotional financing offers and automatic gift card rewards, in addition to in-store instant approval.
Those signing up for the card will get 10% off one purchase in-store, upon approval. In addition to in-store and online Shopko purchases, a unique card feature is access to deferred interest promotional pricing, which will be offered during select periods. Shopko Credit Card program customers also will automatically receive a $10 gift card for each $200 spend.
Go to www.shopkocreditcard.com to learn more about the program, to view specific terms and conditions, or to apply for the new card.
We are thrilled to partner with First Bankcard, said Peter McMahon, Shopko CEO. Were always looking for ways to improve services and benefits to our customers, including maximizing convenience, and the new Shopko Credit Card helps add even more value to their Shopko shopping experience.
First Bankcard is excited to bring its expertise in the retail and merchandise category to benefit Shopko customers, said Jerry OFlanagan, Executive Vice President, Consumer Banking Group. Shopko is known for quality merchandise and providing expert pharmacy and optical services to small and mid-size communities across the country. Great brands like Shopko reward customer loyalty, and this card program will provide more value and superior customer service to its customers.
About Shopko
Shopko is owned by an affiliate of Sun Capital Partners, Inc., a leading private investment firm focused on leverage buyouts, equity, debt, and other investments in market-leading companies. Founded in 1962 and headquartered in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Shopko Stores Operating Co., LLC is a $3 billion retailer that operates more than 375 stores in 26 states throughout the Central, Western and Pacific Northwest regions. Retail formats include 131 Shopko stores, providing quality name-brand merchandise, great values, pharmacy and optical services in small to mid-sized cities; 5 Shopko Express Rx stores, a convenient neighborhood drugstore concept; 5 Shopko Pharmacy locations; and 248 Shopko Hometown stores, a smaller concept store developed to meet the needs of smaller communities. For more information, visit www.shopko.com.
About First Bankcard
First Bankcard, a division of First National Bank of Omaha, is a leader in the credit card partnership arena, serving approximately 400 financial institutions, co-brand and affinity partners nationwide. For 60 years, First Bankcard has offered quality products and superior service to help its customers achieve their goals. Visit www.firstbankcard.com for more information.
About First National Bank of Omaha
First National Bank of Omaha is a subsidiary of First National of Nebraska. First National of Nebraska is the largest privately owned banking company in the United States. First National of Nebraska and its affiliates have more than $21 billion in assets and 5,000 employee associates. Primary banking offices are located in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota and Texas.
View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20161114005238/en/
Bozell for First Bankcard
John Melingagio, 402-965-4324
jmelingagio@bozell.com
or
Shopko Public Relations
Michelle Hansen, 920-429-4054
michelle.hansen@shopko.com
Partnership brings together best-of-breed solutions for merchants to create rich consumer interaction at the point-of-sale
Verifone (NYSE: PAY), a world leader in payments and commerce solutions, has partnered with Vesca, a leader in providing payment and marketing solutions as a service in Japan, to offer enhanced and secure payment services and solutions to merchants in the country. The partnership will bring together the technology portfolio and geographic strengths of the two companies, to enable financial institutions, retailers and various industry verticals to benefit from innovative payment solutions.
This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20161113005012/en/
While a cash-based economy in which cards and other forms of payment amount to comparatively little volume, the local EMV liability shift deadline and the Olympic Games Tokyo coincide in 2020 giving Japanese merchants the opportunity to install the capability to accept multiple payment forms. To bring enhanced world payment standards to Japan, Vesca will offer the Verifone Engage V200c countertop and P400 PIN pad to provide increased speed and security, and an interactive user interface. These devices meet Japans EMV requirements and enable merchants to personalize the customer shopping experience with targeted offers and loyalty programs for additional revenue streams at the point of sale (POS).
What matters most to Japanese merchants today is business growth and consumer loyalty, said Thad Peterson, senior analyst at Aite Group. Nations around the world are progressing towards becoming cashless economies, and it has become imperative for them to adopt the latest in technology that can best support this change and help businesses become more efficient. As Japan prepares for some major changes in the near years, Verifone, with its engaging payment solutions and value-added applications, is well suited to meet the needs of businesses across sectors and the country at large.
This partnership will bring end-to-end advanced payment services and solutions for Japanese merchants as well as in-depth market expertise, said Mr. Makoto Yoshida, chief executive officer of Vesca. Furthermore, we plan to create unique segment-specific features by collaborating with our extended ecosystem of clients and partners.
Vesca will introduce the new Verifone solution which will include end-to-end payment services such as estate management, payment gateway and merchant consoles. With commerce-enabled devices from the Verifone Engage family, merchants in Japan will have the flexibility to accept Sony FeliCa, the local contactless smartcard payment option, and a wide range of internationally accepted payment methods including card, payment apps and wallets.
With Vesca as our strategic partner, we are offering Japanese merchants, particularly in dominant sectors such as retail, food and hospitality, access to the best technology solutions and services available, said Steve Aliferis, president of Verifone Asia Pacific. We are aligned on the goal to continue to spur the growth of new payment and commerce solutions that will enhance opportunities for merchants and experiences for consumers as Japan incorporates more cashless options.
Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for VeriFone Systems, Inc.
This press release includes certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on management's current expectations or beliefs and on currently available competitive, financial and economic data and are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements herein due to changes in economic, business, competitive, technological and/or regulatory factors, and other risks and uncertainties affecting the operation of the business of VeriFone Systems, Inc., including many factors beyond our control. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those associated with: successful rollout of our payment solutions in Japan, execution of our strategic plan and business initiatives and whether the expected benefits of our plan and initiatives are achieved, short product cycles and rapidly changing technologies, our ability to maintain competitive leadership position with respect to our payment solution offerings, our assumptions, judgments and estimates regarding the impact on our business of the continued uncertainty in the global economic environment and financial markets, our ability to successfully integrate acquired businesses into our business and operations, our ability to protect against fraud, the status of our relationship with and condition of third parties such as our contract manufacturers, distributors and key suppliers upon whom we rely in the conduct of our business, our dependence on a limited number of customers, the conduct of our business and operations internationally, our ability to effectively hedge our exposure to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, and our dependence on a limited number of key employees. For a further list and description of the risks and uncertainties affecting the operations of our business, see our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our annual report on Form 10-K and our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. The forward-looking statements speak only as of the date such statements are made. Verifone is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise.
About Vesca
Vesca is the leading provider of payment and ID marketing solutions as a service. Vesca provides the secure and flexible payment management platform partnering with innovative companies worldwide, located in Tokyo, Japan.
About Verifone
Verifone is transforming everyday transactions into opportunities for connected commerce. Were connecting payment devices to the cloud, merging the online and in-store shopping experience and creating the next generation of digital engagement between merchants and consumers. We are built on a 30-year history of uncompromised security with approximately 29 million devices and terminals deployed worldwide. Our people are known as trusted experts who work with our clients and partners, helping to solve their most complex payments challenges. We have clients and partners in more than 150 countries, including the worlds best-known retail brands, financial institutions and payment providers.
Verifone.com | (NYSE: PAY) | @verifone
View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20161113005012/en/
FleishmanHillard Tokyo Contact:
Yufuko Toyoda, 03-6204-4340 (+81-3-6204-4340)
yufuko.toyoda@fleishman.com
or
Verifone Contact:
Kwiyoung Baumgarten, 770-754-3460
kwiyoung.baumgarten.@verifone.com
Hawkeye: Eyes, ears of the RQ-4
An aircraft accelerating down the runway with 8,500 pounds of thrust and a wingspan greater than a Boeing 737 is inherently dangerous. The danger is amplified when the pilot isnt even located on board the aircraft. Trailing behind pursuing the aircraft is Hawkeye ensuring the remotely piloted aircraft ascends from the surly bonds of Earth.
The RQ-4 Global Hawk, serves as the Air Forces high-altitude intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, long endurance RPA. Global Hawks are loaded with an integrated sensor suite and cameras capable of providing global all-weather, day or night ISR, however while on the ground visibility for pilots operating the aircraft from within the Mission Control Element is limited. That is where Hawkeye fulfills its role.
Hawkeye is any RQ-4 pilot who performs preflight inspections no differently than a typical pilot would conduct a preflight inspection, said 1st Lt. Jeffrey, a 12th Reconnaissance Squadron RQ-4 pilot. The pilots in control at the MCE have limited visibility; Hawkeye is the eyes and ears of RQ-4 Global Hawks on the ground. While maintaining a safe distance, Hawkeye pursues the aircraft at 40 mph down the runway until takeoff.
Prior to engine start Hawkeyes reviews a checklist with maintenance personnel verifying the functionality of the aircraft.
We guide them from a maintenance perspective during their walk arounds, said Staff Sgt. Josh Reynolds, a 9th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron RQ-4 crew chief. We provide a second set of eyes and answer any maintenance related questions the pilots may have.
According to Jeffrey, he has personally witnessed multiple occasions where a Hawkeye prevented a potential incident.
Hawkeye has prevented various incidents from bird strikes, runway incursions, located leaking hydraulic fluid and damaged aircraft, he said. While deployed serving as Hawkeye I once identified an engine fire on another jet.
Aside from locating potential hazards and serving as the eyes and ears of the aircraft, Hawkeyes are also responsible for communicating critical information to the pilots coordinating with the air traffic controller before takeoffs and landings.
When the air traffic controller gives clearance to land, Hawkeye is on the taxiway visually locating the jet, ensures the airfield has no debris or obstructions, and serves as a secondary source to the tower notifying the pilot the aircraft is cleared to land, Jeffrey said.
Global Hawks possess the capability to fly nonstop for 28 hours. Occasionally, the pilots and their aircraft are geographically separated.
Although pilots and their aircraft are sometimes separated, technology and mission elements such as Hawkeyes, enable missions to be accomplished.
Hawkeye conducts those firsthand checks, Jeffrey said. When we fly, the Hawkeye is there for every single takeoff and landing.
Jacqueline Fernandez has entertained the audiences through the year by delivering back to back hits.
Her movies this year, A Flying Jatt, Dishoom and Housefull 3 have enthralled the audiences with their long theatrical run and have garnered huge commercial success by keeping the cash counters ringing.
After becoming huge hits at the theatres, her movies have gone on to woo the audiences with their TV premiers as well.
As per the TRP ratings of the TV premier, all three of her movies have successfully secured positions in the top five movies premiered on television making her one of the top contenders of the female entertainer this year.
Interestingly, Jacqueline is the only female actor to have three successful releases this year.
Along with these successful movies, the actress has also delivered songs like Beat Pe Booty from Flying Jatt, Sau Tarah Ke from Dishoom and Pyaar Ki from Housefull 3.
The self made actress has made a mark for herself in Bollywood, making her one of the most commercially viable actress of Btown.
On the same note, Jacqueline smiles and shares, Its an overwhelming feeling to witness all three releases of mine, garner so much love from the audience. I want to entertain people at all times and its certainly a great feeling when people enjoy your work.
Actress Sofia Vergara flaunted her hourglass figure in a body-hugging dress for a date night with husband Joe Manganiello.
The ribbed stretch-knit midi dress had clasps from the neckline to the hem. She added a cleavage-baring touch to the look by unclasping the top notches. She accessorised her outfit with danglers, a neutral clutch and matching open-toed pumps, reports people.com.
Happy bday beautifull Amy!! A photo posted by Sofia Vergara (@sofiavergara) on Nov 11, 2016 at 9:35pm PST
It appears the couple were meeting up with friends for a birthday celebration, as Vergara later posted a photo with two friends.
Happy birthday beautiful Amy! the actress, 44, wrote in the post.
[dropcap]A[/dropcap]fter demonetisation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the action will affect very powerful people but he is prepared to fight for the poor. As usual, this was just a speech what all these years he is delivering to the people. As Modi stressed that the poor strongly backed his decision to demonetise high denomination currency, he questioned the moral authority of his political opponents, especially the Congress, for criticising his step as anti-poor and anti-common man. But he is ignoring the ground reality which is not as per his assumption and party supporters are giving him. Those Bhakt on social media are not common public who are standing in queue for hours and compromising their lives on many front. No amount of Modis crocodile tears can conceal the shambles the governance of the country has been reduced to under BJP/RSS combine tutelage. It is total wreckage of common people rather than a surgical strike against black marketers. In fact, there is nothing surgical at all in the whole operation.
It is simply a flea-bite for the accumulators, fraudsters, guerrillas and terrorists. The new notes do not seem to possess the security features to defeat the counterfeiters. The higher denomination Rs. 2000 notes will only make it easier for the criminals to handle their money than in the erstwhile small notes of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000. Those rambling over the mirage of economic nirvana to be ushered in by BJP/RSS combine stand to be disillusioned. Not only the opposition but BJPs ally in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena also disapproved the governments move. The demonetisation move has led to financial anarchy, but Modi is busy in chest beating about self-achievements. He along with his party failed on bringing back black money and also to counter terror activities from foreign lands. They promised to bring back Dawood Ibrahim but now settled on demonetisation of currency. He failed to deliver election promises made by him. I hope, PM will learn bitter lesson from Punjab, UP state elections for his autocratic style of functioning. He is taking decisions without proper home work to avoid inconvenience to all sections of the society. Instead of attacking neo-rich, he is bulldozing common mans daily bread. It is quixotic to see certain things happening in India these days.
Moreover, WhatsApp and Facebook are two platforms were people participate with each other to spread lame jokes and these are the strongest mediums in spreading rumours, folks. Along with these two platforms, people are debating on Twitter as well. The best time, they chose to spread a rumour is when the target audience is confused and scared, and the easiest thing to do when the topic is something related to money, is to spread fear, and in turn create panic, then hatred and ultimately violence. They went on saying that the 2000/- rupee note will have security chip in it, but later on all those claims got exposed and the real note looks as bogus and fake ones. Forget about security measures, the quality of paper used for the note is also cheap with all gaudy colours.
A few weeks ago, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court broke down in front of the public while speaking; now the PM, Modi, said to be a super-strong man, breaks down. When would the Prime Minister of the nation shed tears for the nation? Modi must understand, at least now, that his big talks, bombastic schemes and action paced speeches cannot deliver socio-economic developments, as well as so-called surgical strikes, that include some military action as well as the current demonetization drive. However, India requires employment, so please generate the employment for at least 450 million people.
Bringing some small percentage of the black money through demonetization is not the achievement. However, India needs big value additions for development. PM needs to understand that the support of the people is there with him. It could have grown more if a little more thought had been put into the scheme before a hasty execution. The suffering is real. It should not be taken to a breaking point. Some immediate measure to provide cash of 50s 100s must be implemented on war footing. The people will always support any good measure adopted by the government. The dissenting voice of the opposition politicians may be brushed aside because that is born out of frustration. Let urgent relief reach the people at the earliest. Banks and its employees are creating artificial scarcity. They are involved in commission and not giving money to poor people and instead are giving money to people who are paying commissions. His so called good ideas are being damaged by bankers and bank employees. On his own admission, Modi has stated that the step of demonetising Rs. 1000 and Rs. 500 notes were under contemplation for nearly six months and if that were true, a little bit of foresight in pumping adequate Rs.100 and Rs. 50 denomination notes in the system well in advance could have mitigated large scale sufferings of the citizens who have been subjected to hardship for the past five days. Here is where the BJP government has weakened.
The Prime Minister promised, he would not allow the money of the poor to be looted., but he needs to make more promises that common man will not be brought to roads and deprived of two time meals. People are bearing the distress for a few days but that should not be stretched beyond the limit.
(Any suggestions, comments or dispute with regards to this article send us on feedback@afternoonvoice.com)
Prime Minister on Monday took potshots at Opposition parties for hitting out at his government over demonetisation. He asserted that poor people are within in the fight against corruption, black money.
PM said, We dont lack money, but it is lying where it should not be. Only when people are ready to face inconvenience, then corruption will go. New whitewash gives out foul smell, but it is necessary.
Mr. Modi seeks the blessings of people, asks them for help. Just look at the wealth of the poor! And, hes greeted by an applause. This is a fight to end corruption and dishonesty.
Asks people if he did the right thing by scrapping high denomination notes. And hes get a loud roar from the crowd. Will you face hardships? If people in villages are ready to face hardships there is no place for dishonesty in India, he said.
My decision (to ban Rs500 and Rs1000) is like strong tea that I used to make earlier in my days as a chaiwala. The poor are loving it, while for rich its bad in taste.
Modi lauded his government for the decision to demonetise the big notes to root out corruption and black money and said the step had robbed the rich of their sleep.
After demonetisation, poor enjoying sound sleep, rich running from pillar to post to buy sleeping pills, Modi said at BJPs Parivartan Yatra in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh. He said the move to demonetise big currencies would help bridge the gap between rich and poor in the country.
Those who are looting the country by stashing away Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, should they not suffer, are we not ready to experience a little hardships to teach a lesson to those cheating the country? We are going to rid the country of cheaters, Modi said.
PM Modi also lauded the state for its contributions to the country and said, Uttar Pradesh has given many prime ministers to the country. I am the ninth Prime Minister from Uttar Pradesh. Both Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and I share Uttar Pradeshs legacy. More than 5,000 jawans have come from this great state.
As PM Modi, said the poor are sleeping peacefully and the rich need sleeping pills a comment he has made more than once in rallies since Sunday Mamata Banerjee, CM of West Bengal posted her criticism on Twitter. PMs remarks are an insult to commoners and in bad taste, she wrote.
Gary Kompothecras, who likes to be called Dr. Gary, is a chiropractor who acknowledges that, if you cross him, he can be a bulldog. He made himself a multi-millionaire building clinics to treat people hurt in car accidents and by creating the 1-800-ASK-GARY referral network. He is also one of the state's biggest political donors and a close friend of Gov. Charlie Crist.
By J.B. Handley I often talk about the "autism net", the concept that the ranks of parents impacted by the autism epidemic grows every day. With each person added to the net, the chances of someone being added with the power and connections to do something about it grows. Meet Dr. Gary Kompothecras: he's one of those parents. Based in Sarasota, Florida, he appears to be a one-man wrecking crew doing many of the things all of us wish we could. Consider this excerpt from an article that ran yesterday in his local paper, the Herald Tribune of Sarasota, FL. (HERE)
Two of his children are autistic. Sarah Alice, 11, repeats back what other people say to her and still plays with a jack-in-the-box. Bronson, 12, is so severely delayed he spent years in therapy to learn the name of his favorite plaything, bottles.
Kompothecras (pronounced kom-PAHTH-uh-kras) believes their disorder was caused by an ingredient in vaccines, mercury-based thimerosal, that they received as infants.
"Dirt bags" is one of the nicer names he has for public health officials who disagree.
This legislative session Kompothecras wants lawmakers to pass a law preventing any vaccines with more than a tiny amount of thimerosal from being given in Florida, creating what would be the nation's strictest vaccine law.
Pediatricians say the legislation, which essentially amounts to a ban on the preservative, is rooted in bad science and will put children and the elderly at risk for deadly flu viruses. The one shot containing a substantial amount of thimerosal is the flu vaccine, and if the preservative is restricted there could be a shortage, medical experts warn.
But Kompothecras is relentless. He promises to leverage every political favor and every dollar he can to get the law passed.
"If I can do this, my son won't go down for nothing," Kompothecras said. "You know how many lives we're going to save? This is going to be bigger than tobacco."
* * *
I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Gary today. He's one of us, he gets it, he's hopping mad, and he can make things happen. He appreciates how important looking at unvaccinated kids is, and he's currently moving to do just that in Florida. From the article:
"Working for a vaccine law is just the beginning for Kompothecras. He wants to commission a study using the state's Medicaid database looking at children who received thimerosal-containing vaccines and at how many became autistic."
Dr. Gary is a member of the Florida Governor's Autism Task Force. To that end, he put together a 46 minute video of a hearing on the thimerosal bill in September of 2008. The video includes excellent testimony by the Geiers, Dr. David Berger, and Dr. Boyd Haley (And some great questions from Ven Sequenzia, Jr., the President of the Autism Society of Florida). While it's long, I highly recommend you watch it HERE (HERE).
(Checkout minute number 25, where the Florida Department of Health speaker, Saad Omer, gets shredded, and minute 35 where Boyd Haley explains the extreme toxicity of mercury. And, minute 38 where a mom gets the Florida Department of Health loser to admit they have no studies on the safety of simultaneous administration of vaccines. And, minute 39 where Dr. Gary trips up the Department of Health loser by quoting Dr. Healy!!)
Our kids need more Warrior Dads. In Dr. Gary, they have one who we will be hearing a lot more from soon. Welcome, Dr. Gary, were thrilled to stand shoulder to shoulder with you in the fight.
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2016 - Lawmakers return this week for a lame duck session that will lay the groundwork for the next Congress, while Washingtons attention is riveted on finding out who will get the top jobs in Donald Trumps administration.
Trump announced his new transition team on Friday, replacing the original leader, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, with Vice President-elect Mike Pence. Sen. Jeff Sessions chief of staff, Rick Dearborn, will be executive director.
The first key positions were filled Sunday. Trump announced that Reince Priebus, the chairman of the Republican National Committee, would be the White House chief of staff. Stephen Bannon, the executive chairman of Breitbart News and the CEO of the Trump campaign, was named chief strategist and senior counselor to the president.
According to the announcement, Priebus and Bannon will be working as equal partners to transform the federal government.
Priebus represents the establishment GOP view, while Bannon and Brietbart News have been a harsh critic of GOP immigration and trade policies.
Priebus represents the establishment wing of the party, while Bannon has been an aggressive critic of the establishment
Also on Friday, the leader of Trumps agricultural advisory team, Nebraska agribusinessman Charles Herbster, met with Dearborn on Friday, according to a source familiar with the transition team. It is not known when Trump will name an agriculture secretary, but Herbster and other members of Trumps agricultural advisory team are some of the most likely prospects.
In an email to the campaigns agriculture supporters Herbster challenged them to stay involved with the new administration. Trump cannot make these changes alone. It will take the unity, time and effort of the entire nation. I challenge each of you to join me and do your part to make your voices heard, Herbster wrote.
Mike Torrey, a lobbyist who served as deputy chief of staff at USDA during the George W. Bush administration, is advising the campaign on its organization of USDA.
Trump, meanwhile, is expected to meet on Thursday with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, even as the Japanese parliament is in the process of approving the Trans-Pacific Partnership. Trump has pledged to pull out of the TPP, and Republican congressional leaders have ruled out considering the TPP during the lame duck session. But Trump reportedly views Abe as an ally in pushing back against Chinas influence in Asia.
President Obama also will be meeting with Abe leaders of the other 11 other TPP countries when he arrives this weekend for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum.
Obviously we recognize the recent political developments in our country and how that affects TPP, but that's all the more reason for the president to discuss with other TPP leaders the work theyve done together and how we're looking at issues related to trade going forward, said Ben Rhodes, Obamas deputy national security advisor for strategic communications.
Congress will be welcoming the newly elected House members and senators this week, and Republicans are expected to vote on Tuesday to retain Paul Ryan as House speaker. But with TPP off the table, the rest of the lame duck agenda appears to be shrinking.
The continuing resolution that is currently funding the government expires Dec. 9. GOP congressional leaders had planned to work out an agreement with the White House on spending legislation to cover the rest of fiscal 2017.
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However, in the wake of Trumps election there are growing expectations that GOP leaders will instead seek another continuing resolution that would fund the government into the first part of next year, allowing time for Republicans to negotiate spending levels and policy provisions with Trump and his new team rather than Obama.
American people rose up and resoundingly rejected the status quo, aid Michael Needham, CEO of Heritage Action, a conservative advocacy group. Instead of negotiating with a lame duck president, Republicans in Congress must begin setting the stage for 2017.
Heres a list of agriculture- or rural-related events scheduled for this week in Washington and elsewhere:
Monday, Nov. 14
11 a.m. - Cato Institute forum, The Way Forward on Trade, 1100 Massachusetts Ave. NW.
4 p.m. - USDA releases Crop Progress report.
Tuesday, Nov. 15
All day - Science Board to the Food and Drug Administration meeting on the bovine heparin initiative and other issues, Silver Spring, Md.
Wednesday, Nov. 16
National Organic Standards Board meeting, St. Louis, through Friday.
9 a.m. - Biotechnology Regulatory Services stakeholder meeting, USDA Center at Riverside, Md.
10:30 a.m. - Third Annual Summit on Global Food Security and Health Issues, George Mason University Arlington campus, 3351 Fairfax Dr.
Thursday, Nov. 17
NOSB meeting.
President-elect Donald Trump meets with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
8:30 a.m. - USDA releases Weekly Export Sales report.
10 a.m. - House Agriculture Committee hearing, Past, Present, and Future of SNAP: Opportunities for Improving Access to Food, 1300 Longworth.
Friday, Nov. 18
NOSB meeting.
#30
(Updated at 4 p.m.)
For more news, go to: www.Agri-Pulse.com
Aiken, SC (29801)
Today
Partly cloudy skies early will give way to cloudy skies late. Low 54F. Winds light and variable..
Tonight
Partly cloudy skies early will give way to cloudy skies late. Low 54F. Winds light and variable.
Keith Jones, left, the Rev. Sotello Long, John Lindsay and the Rev. Bob Byrne stand in Marion Square in Charleston on Sunday before the start of the From Forgiveness to New Life Walk. Byrne is leading the walk, which will end at Glove Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Warrenville on Nov. 20. The purpose of the walk is to raise money for Glover Grove, which was rebuilt after being destroyed by fire in June 2015.
Aiken, SC (29801)
Today
Mainly cloudy. High 77F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..
Tonight
Some clouds early will give way to generally clear conditions overnight. Low 54F. Winds light and variable.
November 13, 2016
CAIRO While Egypts northern Sinai region has been associated with terrorism in recent years, there are concerns the violence could be spreading to Cairo. The Cairo governorate which includes Egypts capital and its suburbs, and is highly populated has witnessed five terrorist attacks in the span of less than three months, from Aug. 6 until Nov. 4.
The so-called Hasm movement claimed responsibility Aug. 6 for the failed assassination attempt on former Grand Mufti Ali Gomaa. On Sept. 30, the movement also claimed another failed assassination attempt on Assistant Attorney General Zakaria Abdul Aziz, who was targeted with an improvised explosive device (IED).
In the third such incident, Brig. Gen. Adel Ragaie was gunned down in front of his house Oct. 22 in a Cairo suburb in an attack claimed by a group called Lewaa al-Thawra (Revolution Brigade).
On Oct. 28, there was a terrorist attack against a security patrol on the Suez bridge street. On Nov. 4, Judge Ahmad Abu al-Fotouh, one of the judges in the trials against ousted President Mohammed Morsi, survived an assassination attempt with IEDs.
These operations are similar to the ones carried out in 2013, 2014 and 2015. In December 2013, an explosion occurred at the Dakahlia Security Directorate; another took place in January 2014 in the Security Directorate of Cairo. This is not to mention the June 2015 assassination of Attorney General Hisham Barakat, who was killed in a bombing of his motorcade.
These operations were linked to a dangerous organization known as Ansar Bayt al-Maqdis, later to be called Wilayat Sinai after it pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (IS).
However, the recent attacks have been associated with newly emerged movements and organizations, such as the Hasm movement and Lewaa al-Thawra, which have less experience and savvy than Wilayat Sinai.
Retired Maj. Gen. Khaled Moutaweh told Al-Monitor that there are some indications suggesting a lack of experience within these groups. For instance, in the assassination attempt against Gomaa, a large number of bullets were fired and yet the target was missed. Moutaweh also underlined a lack of capabilities, as bullets were used instead of explosive materials, which he said has been Wilayat Sinai's signature attack and the most effective attack in general.
Meanwhile, retired Maj. Gen. Mohammed Nur al-Din, a former assistant to the interior minister and a security expert, told Al-Monitor that the Hasm movement and Lewaa al-Thawra are likely affiliated with the Muslim Brotherhood, as evidenced by the latter's announcing that the assassination of Ragaie was to avenge the Oct. 3 killing of Muslim Brotherhood leader Mohammed Kamal. Kamal was a member of the movements guidance office, in charge of the major cells in the Brotherhood.
It is worth mentioning that the emergence of Lewaa al-Thawra and the high-tempo operations of the Hasm movement happened in tandem with the resumption of fierce attacks by Wilayat Sinai, most notably one on a security checkpoint in northern Sinai on Oct. 14. The attack killed 12 soldiers in the armed forces. Sinai also witnessed other major attacks, which caused the death of prominent leaders in the armed forces, including Col. Rami Hassanein, the commander of Brigade 102, and Brig. Gen. Hicham Mahmoud Abu al-Azm.
Nur al-Din said, One ought to pay attention to the announcement of Mohammed al-Baltagy, a leader in the Brotherhood, during the Rabia al-Adawiya protest, as he said that the terrorist attacks will continue until the return of Morsi to power. The Muslim Brotherhood is carrying out operations under the names of different groups because it wants to create political distance so it can move about easily in Turkey and Europe and deal with political systems without being questioned about its associations with terrorist activities."
Nur al-Din believes there are three reasons behind the new attacks. This is an attempt to boost the morale of terrorist organizations and members of the Brotherhood. It is also a bid to intimidate judges before pronouncing final judgments on Morsi and Brotherhood leaders, as judgments have already started to be issued. Finally, these attacks aim at disrupting the economic reform process in Egypt, he said.
Retired Maj. Gen. Hisham al-Halabi, a consultant in the Nasser Military Academy and member of the Egyptian Council of Foreign Affairs, told Al-Monitor, With the resumption of heavy attacks, terrorist groups are trying to establish themselves in the Egyptian arena.
He said one reason for the intensification of such operations is their relative ease compared with attacks against military targets or sites, saying, There is no 100% [protection] guarantee anywhere in the world. For example, American security could not protect President John F. Kennedy from assassination, despite the substantial capacities of US security services compared with Egyptian security services. Moreover, security services in France, the United States and Turkey were unable to repel the frequent terrorist attacks launched recently. Therefore, terrorist organizations benefit from the security services inability to secure all streets and provide protection to all prominent figures to carry out their operations.
Halabi said that as a result of the attacks, Citizens are becoming more supportive of the security services and armed forces, despite the terrorist organizations attempts to break the trust between the citizen and the state. Moreover, these operations are further boosting the armed forces, police and intelligence services determination to avenge their colleagues and eradicate terrorism.
He said the details of the terrorist operations show the declining capabilities of terrorist organizations. He said the use by these organizations of bullets and lighter explosive devices in several operations show that the organizations' capabilities are declining and that the security and armed forces have drained the financing sources of terror groups and curbed their flow of weapons and ammunition.
The operation against the Security Directorate of Dakahlia used a booby-trapped car fitted with 1.5 tons of explosives, and the Cairo Security Directorate and the Barakat motorcade were targeted by half a ton of explosives each.
On the other hand, the quantities of explosives used by the terrorist groups in the recent operations have dropped significantly. A 3-kilo (6.6-pound) explosive device was used in the assassination attempt on the assistant attorney general and only 5 kilos of explosives were used in the assassination attempt of the judge ruling on the Morsi case.
November 8, 2016
TEHRAN, Iran Millennia after the discovery of gold, the metal continues to retain its value and status as precious and remains widely used. Its unique characteristics, including its malleability and resistance to corrosion, have made into a key element in medicine as well as in engineering and electronics. The significant economic advantages of the metal, such as its profitable trade along with related wealth and job creation, are the most important factors behind countries around the world attaching paramount importance to their gold industries. Iran, one of the most resource-rich countries, has not been an exception. Investment in gold-mining projects and related industries have surged in the past decade. In recent years many important developments among them the discovery of gold reserves in Yazd province and the establishment of major gold complexes have further shone a spotlight on Irans gold reserves and their potential.
With Iran holding proven gold reserves estimated at 340 metric tons scattered among some two dozen mines, 15 of which are currently operational the Money and Credit Council of the Central Bank of Iran (CBI) issued a letter to custom's authorities legalizing the export of raw gold, provided it is extracted from domestic mines and is not sold on Iranian markets at competitive international prices. Moreover, exporters must repatriate revenues either as foreign exchange or standard gold bars. The letter also stated that the change in policy was pending approval by the Industry, Mines and Trade Ministry.
Previously, the CBI had held the exclusive right to export gold. Although exporters still need permission from the CBI to sell gold, the removal of previous limitations has been hailed by many active in the countrys gold industry. The move gives the opportunity to Iranian mines to enter the competitive market of gold exports. Iran can also enter global markets, Mohammad Vali, head of Irans Gold and Jewelry Producers and Exporters Union, told the semi-official Iranian Students' News Agency July 5.
Kourosh Azizi, an economics consultant who works with mining companies, also described the lifting of restrictions as a positive development, provided relevant and well-designed schemes will also be put forward. Key gold reserves in Iran are managed by the government, while the private sector runs small mines, Azizi explained to Al-Monitor. In the short term, the legalization of raw gold exports helps the private sector access foreign exchange resources, which subsequently helps it attract capital, pay off debts to banks and resolve other problems it faces. With the private sector booming, small economic enterprises will be able to attract investment as well, something considered as a driving force to make and maintain changes in gold mining.
The new guidelines have also been criticized, however. Mining researcher Morteza Momenzadeh is not very positive about the legalization of raw gold exports. He told Eghtesad News July 5, The measure helps increase mining activities, but it is not of significant help in boosting the gold economy. Domestic gold consumption is higher than production. As such, domestic production of gold is not sufficient for exports.
Irans raw gold production is projected at five to ten tons per year, while the gold in circulation stands at 300 tons per annum. This indicates that the industry has yet to make a considerable contribution to the overall economy, given that domestic consumption represents the lions share of domestically produced gold, with exports limited to gold products rather than raw gold.
Moreover, even though the export of raw gold is now legal, various challenges remain as experts believe the country lacks the cutting-edge mining technology and machinery required to produce gold on par with international standards.
While the acceptable global standard for gold bars at the London Bullion Market Association requires the product to have a purity of 99.9%, only one Iranian mine can currently produce raw gold with such purity. According to Iranian officials, all other mines produce gold with a purity level of 99.8%.
Nonetheless, Azizi, who has years of experience working with major state companies in the mining industry, said that the long-term effect of the legalization of raw gold exports is manifold. Once private sector-run gold production becomes lucrative, producers will have the tendency to explore and extract more gold mines, he explained. This will require the use of new technologies, which subsequently brings high-level added value to gold mining.
Hamid, a jeweler in Tehran, also described the decision to authorize raw gold exports as a good step, but said that it will take time to bear fruit. Gold production has really progressed over the past five years. You can hardly differentiate between Iranian-made gold products and their Italian equivalents, he told Al-Monitor. But, the industry needs to receive great support if it wants to enter international export markets.
Indeed, Iran has a long road ahead of it in achieving its goal of becoming a major gold exporter. It currently has to rely on imports to meet domestic demand. Meanwhile, experts cite issues related to trade in precious stones as well as the lack of required machinery as additional hurdles that the government has to address to further boost the gold industry.
Though the use of gold and the jewelry industry have millennia-old roots on the Iranian plateau, Irans present share of global production of raw gold and jewelry is 1% at best, even after the increased emphasis on developing gold mines in the years since President Hassan Rouhani was elected, in 2013. Iranian officials believe that with the sanctions lifted as part of the nuclear deal, the countrys mining sector can catch up with the world by increasing its gold- production capacity and attracting additional investment from foreign companies.
As such, while there has been foreign investment in Iranian gold mines by Russia and China, many experts believe that given Irans vast untapped mining potential with 68 types of minerals amounting to total reserves of 43 billion metric tons major global firms that have not already entered the market will sooner or later take steps to do so.
November 11, 2016
Iraqi security forces arrested Saddam Husseins cousin Nizar Hammoud Abdul Ghani, who was one of the Iraqi presidents personal guards, on Oct. 25 for his alleged involvement in the Islamic State's attack on Kirkuk on Oct. 21.
Three of his brothers are also high-ranking officers in the [IS] organization in Al-Hawija district, the chief of Kirkuks suburban police, Brig. Gen. Sarhad Qadir, told Rudaw. Hawija lies some 50 kilometers (30 miles) west of Kirkuk.
As the inevitable defeat of IS approaches, analysts and politicians are busy discussing life in Iraq after the group. Sectarian reconciliation, political autonomy and the role of external actors such as Turkey continue to dominate the media discourse.
One group that remains absent from post-liberation narratives is the former Baathists, who have played a complex role in Mosuls recent history and have had a dysfunctional relationship with post-2003 governments in Baghdad. If the role of former Baathists is forgotten in post-IS Iraq, then many of the key issues that arose when IS entered Mosul in 2014 will likely return in the future.
The powerful role played by former Baathists in IS leadership structure is well known. Abu Muslim al-Turkmani, a lieutenant colonel in Saddams Intelligence Service, and Abu Ali al-Anbari, a former major general under Saddam, were IS former deputy commanders in Iraq and Syria.
Ezzat al-Douri, the former deputy leader of the Baath Party, was reported to be fighting for IS. The fingerprints of the old Iraqi state are clear on their work. You can feel it, a former Baath Party official told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity.
IS strong Baathist links gave the group a clear Iraqi identity and allowed it to make alliances with many other such groups upon its entry into Mosul. One of these alliances was with the Baathist-linked Naqshbandi Army, which is led by Ezzat al-Douri.
When IS forces stormed into Mosul in June 2014, the Naqshbandi Armys Baathist network largely facilitated their entry. As the Iraqi journalist and analyst Hazem al-Amin notes, Baath Party officers were the people who were in charge of capturing Mosul and the people of Mosul.
After entering Mosul, however, IS revealed its true colors by forcing the former Baathists within the Naqshbandi Army and other groups to pledge allegiance to their caliphate. Some Baathists joined, swelling the ranks of IS military personnel, while others were killed or went into hiding, removing their uniforms to avoid detection. IS took the revolution from us, said a senior Baath Party official. We couldnt sustain the battle.
As retribution for the betrayal, many former Baathists who remained inside Mosul have resurfaced and are now assassinating IS militants inside the city, heeding the Oct. 17 calls by senior Naqshbandi figures to rise up against IS. They form one of many anti-IS groups inside Mosul, such as Kataib al-Mosul, the so-called M-Resistance and the Prophet Yunis Brigades, working occasionally in conjunction with the Iraqi government's security forces.
IS continues to pursue the Naqshbandi members, perceiving them as a strong threat to their control on the city. As former Naqshbandi Col. Qais al-Jibouri has said, Naqshbandi members are waiting for the right time to act and exact their revenge on IS. But he remains wary of the groups future moves despite their anti-IS stance.
Distrust of former Baathists remains among various factions of Iraqi society, as many Iraqis hold them responsible for carrying out attacks in Iraq during the insurgency after 2003, while others remember the bloody massacre of 1,700 Shiite cadets at former US base Camp Speicher. Despite resentment of IS, the remaining Naqshbandi members are likely to still hold the same resentment that facilitated the initial marriage of convenience with IS in 2014, and in particular great contempt for the Baghdad government and its de-Baathification policies of 2003, which dismissed hundreds of thousands of Sunnis.
As Fawaz Gerges predicts in his book ISIS: A History, once Mosul is liberated, many of the Naqshbandi Army's Baathist members will return underground to regroup and wait for an opportunity to return, just as they did before exploiting the social instability in Nineveh in 2014. Despite their ideological differences, the pragmatic secular nationalist Baathists are determined to acquire power by any means available and exploit any situation to their advantage. But for those that attempt to blend back into civilian life, what does the future hold? The Supreme National Commission for Accountability and Justice made amendments to the de-Baathification law on Sept. 30, allowing many former Baathists to resume their jobs. As IS represents the greatest threat to Iraq and its people, national reconciliation must include all groups, including Baathists, to defeat it.
Understanding Baathist networks are of paramount importance and the topic must be included alongside the more prevalently discussed issues of sectarian reconciliation, political autonomy and the role of external actors when addressing the drivers of social insecurity. The controversial amnesty law passed by the parliament Aug. 30 allows people convicted of all but 13 crimes to apply for an official pardon in an effort to promote political reconciliation with those who were convicted after 2003. Yet many people fear this leniency will play into the hands of those harboring anti-government sentiments. Representatives from the National Alliance, including the Sadiqoun bloc's Hassan Salim, lambasted the law as a gift to terrorists and [IS] members and a betrayal of the blood of the martyrs and victims.
As a result of this, the National Alliance, led by Ammar Hakim, has attempted to address the matter by engaging Sunni political blocs and agreeing on reconciliation measures after IS, as well as promoting Iraqs sovereignty, unity and democracy. With the help of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq and other Sunni-majority nations, this effort is a positive step toward national reconciliation between different political and religious groups.
But as researcher and writer Ali Mamouri notes, Confronting the conditions of jihadism requires a comprehensive plan supported by the international community and regional powers addressing the economic, political and social aspects of the issue. What must be included within this framework, then, is recognition of Baath networks to ensure a political climate in which they will not be able to resurface.
November 11, 2016
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip The seventh Fatah conference, to be held Nov. 29, is drawing the attention of the movement itself and of the Palestinian street in light of the division and internal conflicts plaguing Fatah. Fatahs internal division reached its peak in the past few months when on Sept. 28 Fatah head Mahmoud Abbas dismissed Fatah leaders and cadres on charges of delinquency and on Oct. 25 withheld the salaries of others based on the same charges.
The announcement of the conference, in which 1,300 Fatah leaders and cadres are expected to participate, comes after a two-year delay caused by internal disputes and incomplete preparations. In this context, Article 43 of Fatahs statutes stipulates, The Central Committee calls for a regular session [of the general conference] once every five years. This session can be postponed by force majeure, following a decision by the Revolutionary Council.
The importance of the conference lies in the fact that it represents the highest legislative authority in the movement, as it passes laws, regulations, rules and political programs, and it discusses past decisions and reports issued by the Central Committee. Also, the conference elects the members of Fatahs executive bodies, including the Revolutionary Council. The Revolutionary Council monitors the decisions issued by the general conference and the work of the movements bodies, as well as discusses the decisions and work of the Central Committee. The Revolutionary Council thus constitutes a link between the general conference and the Central Committee, whose members are also elected by the conference. The Central Committee, for its part, is considered the highest executive authority within the Fatah movement.
A small number of people were invited to attend the upcoming conference compared to past ones, as the sixth conference was held in Bethlehem in August 2009 with the participation of 2,355 people. About the reasons for this low number, Fatah sources told Al-Araby Al-Jadeed on Nov. 3 that most of the 1,300 people who were invited to the conference are expected to adopt Abbas positions during the conference, which would keep any coalition made up of Mohammed Dahlan supporters from emerging during the conferences sessions.
Speaking to Al-Monitor, Amin Maqboul, the secretary-general of Fatah's Revolutionary Council, listed those who will be attending the seventh conference: the Central Committees members, the Revolutionary Councils members, the Consultative Committees members, the elected representatives of provinces and military members (i.e., those who were part of Fatahs former military wing) of the movement.
The list also includes, as per Maqboul, a number of Fatah cadres working in the Popular Organizations Department affiliated with the PLO, members of the movements bodies working in departments of the Palestinian state and the PLO, a number of Fatah representatives in foreign countries and some competent members of Fatah.
Maqboul said that Abbas has been making contacts in the past few days to ensure that all the cadres and leaders currently residing outside the Palestinian territories and Gaza, and who were invited to the conference, will attend. He further noted that the conference will discuss important issues on the internal level of the movement, including the election of leadership bodies, the general Palestinian situation, as well as several amendments that will be made to Fatahs internal statutes. These amendments will mainly focus on the conditions set for choosing the members of the Revolutionary Council in case of death or absence of one of the members.
Maqboul confirmed that the conference will not discuss the issue of dismissals on charges of delinquency, considering that the dismissal of one or 10 members (in reference to those who were dismissed for belonging to Dahlans current) will not affect a movement that is more than 50 years old.
Abdel Hamid al-Masri, a Fatah leader who was dismissed on charges of delinquency, expects the same. Speaking to Al-Monitor, he said it was unlikely that the conference will discuss the dismissal file, describing the conference as exclusionary and destructive. As Fatah is suffering from deep internal disputes, while another major current is denied participation, Masri expects the conference to be another step toward further schism within the movement.
Masri also held Abbas and his officials responsible for the state of division plaguing the Fatah movement today. He denied media reports saying that supporters of dismissed leader Dahlan are preparing to hold their own conference in response to the seventh Fatah conference, saying, We have many options in this regard, but we will not reveal them at the moment.
Ashraf Jomaa, a Fatah parliamentarian who is close to Dahlan, said in a Nov. 3 statement for local paper Felesteen that as long as the Fatah division is not addressed and the recommendations of the previous conference which mainly stipulate that the next conference not exclude any Fatah figure are ignored, holding the current conference will be a real national catastrophe and the Fatah movement itself will pay the price.
Political analysts and experts believe that the state of division plaguing Fatah will be exacerbated after the conference. This is evidenced by the facts on the ground.
In this context, Riyad al-Astal, a political science professor at Al-Aqsa University in the Gaza Strip, expects the movement to face a complete split at its organizational base after the conference. This is because the young leaders who are close to Dahlan reject the control the founding generation of Fatah has on the Fatah leadership. He expects the current that rejects the seventh conference to hold a parallel conference.
Astal told Al-Monitor that the decisions issued during the seventh conference will be at the advantage of the existing Fatah leadership, which seeks to get rid of Dahlans current. He also warned that the Fatah movement will face difficulties in its relations with the Arab Quartet (Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates), as it backs the return of Dahlan to the movement.
Political analyst Mohsen Abu Ramadan said that the conferences decisions will be important, as they will reflect on the internal situation of the movement, on the Palestinian political system and on relations with Israel.
Abu Ramadan ruled out any possible dialogue between the current Fatah leaders and those of Dahlans current. This seems to confirm that after the conference, the internal relations in Fatah will be heading toward a split, not reconciliation.
The Fatah movement will be facing its ultimate test at the end of November. Many agree that the movement will face the biggest organizational schism since its inception in 1965 as Abbas continues to ignore all efforts aimed at reconciliation with Dahlan.
November 11, 2016
BEIRUT Some of Syria's endangered antiquities could find a safe haven in Europe. French President Francois Hollande announced Nov. 1 that the Louvre Museum in Paris will host heritage artifacts from Syria and Iraq by 2019. The preservation of Syrian heritage has been a priority for individuals and organizations from inside and outside Syria since the beginning of the country's civil war in 2011.
In 2009, Syrian tourism was a $6 billion industry, or 10% of gross domestic product, and the service industry accounted for 47%. With the war, these sectors have been decimated. For that reason, and more importantly to preserve Syrian heritage, foreign and Syrian archaeologists have drafted since 2011 an incomplete list of endangered sites and how they have been, and still are, threatened. The Association for the Protection of Syrian Archaeology (APSA) highlights the risks incurred by monuments during bombings, premeditated destruction, looting, vandalism and traffic but also during maintenance work and restoration, or protection measures of the sites led by the Directorate-General of Antiquities and Museums (DGAM) in Syria with international archaeologists. The association provides daily updates for the public about historical sites affected via a YouTube channel.
On site, the information APSA gathers and processes is provided by students in archaeology and architecture, but also civilians who alert and send information, sometimes risking their lives, Martin Makinson, who is responsible for the organization's press relations, told Al-Monitor.
This will serve, at the end of the conflict, to determine who did what and what is the extent of destruction, in an objective way. The destruction is not merely due to the Islamic State (IS) the regime also caused it, he said.
As with APSA, many international scientific initiatives have supported efforts to preserve artifacts in different ways since the Syrian conflict began. Shirin International, a nongovernmental organization composed of archaeologists and mission managers who worked on Syrian sites until 2011, focuses on three projects. One project conducts regular assessments of damage to sites and excavation houses. Another project is developing an information system capable of integrating all the archaeological data from recent surveys. The database eventually will help with drafting an inventory of museum objects as accurately as possible. The third endeavor involves recording the topography of sites, however small or isolated they might be.
It is preventive archaeology, Frank Braemer, Shirin president and research director at the French National Center for Scientific Research, told Al-Monitor. As soon as the work of clearing and cleaning sites begins, this will help prevent further destruction" by providing a clear idea of how the sites structures work and what causes damage to them.
His colleagues in the Shirin branch in Switzerland are invested in the fight against illegal trafficking of antiquities. Swiss legislation drafted in 2005 already provides a model law on the topic and Zurich museums offer to host objects from any country whose heritage is in danger.
Syrians with doctorates from the University of Geneva play a major role there, maintaining contact with the local population via social networks and raising awareness to prevent possible looting at already-damaged sites. Manar Kerdy is one of these volunteer researchers who keep in touch with their Syrian counterparts.
She told Al-Monitor, I help because I am Syrian, and I want to protect my heritage. I communicate with local people because they live there [in Syria], they see what happens, and I see how we can help, how to involve them. Most often, they are students and civilians who worked in museums and excavation sites. Sometimes you have to send them money, or give them access to training. This is not easy as they face the worst, but we are listening to them, we are available.
Other times, international aid is confined to data, as with the Syrian Heritage Archive Project of the German Archaeological Institute at the University of Cologne. With the coordination of DGAM, the project aims to develop a database capable of integrating all the information on ancient Syrian sites, including topography, the number of artifacts and details of the excavations through archives, photographs and reports.
That focus is shared by Iconem, a Paris-based company that provides technical support to Syrian archaeologists. The company documents sites by using drones and algorithms to make precise 3-D images, Yves Uberlmann, an architect and founder of Iconem, told Al-Monitor.
We are not into restoration, but we provide reliable data to help experts make decisions, especially for our Syrian colleagues in DGAM, he said.
DGAM Director Maamoun Abdulkarim told Al-Monitor, Heritage is our identity, not politics. So we will continue to work because we risk losing a lot.
With about 400 archaeologists and architects on-site, Abdulkarim is working on a field study in Palmyra, which was liberated from IS in March. The study is expected to last a year and will examine what reconstruction options are possible, while urgently restoring some items.
Mechtild Rossler, the director of UNESCOs heritage division and the World Heritage Center, told Al-Monitor, We [already] preserve [sites and artifacts in Syria]; in each case we consider our next steps. Sometimes also, we either leave the ruins or reconstruct small parts, she said. As for the city of Palmyra, we must take into account a reconstruction [process] on the basis of archaeological tourism, from which its 50,000 inhabitants benefited.
UNESCO is already helping archaeologists and staff of Syrian museums through training seminars in Beirut, Amman and Damascus on emergency safeguarding, and is teaching customs' staff to detect antiques trafficked outside Syria.
However, UNESCO has been harshly criticized by archaeologists from around the world due to the statement of Director-General Bokova Irinia in March welcoming the liberation of Palmyra. On March 31, Syrian archaeologist Ali Othman signed a public letter questioning the organization's authority and calling for UNESCO to remain neutral regarding the conflict.
There is no place here, in the current state of armed conflict, for a stand in favor of any of the parties involved directly in the Syrian tragedy, he recently told Al-Monitor by email.
Rossler emphasized that UNESCO is working on communication with the armed presence [referring to the Syrian rebels and regime, and their respective allies], especially to avoid strikes on sites. We remind the authorities of the need to protect heritage, but we cannot communicate directly with an army on a case of siege.
A UNESCO conference on Syrian cultural heritage, held June 2-4 in Berlin, bypassed the controversy by focusing on assessments by 230 Syrian and international experts who called for cooperation between official, civil and scientific organizations to continue to preserve Syrian heritage and establish a post-conflict recovery plan.
All this marks a positive but still fragile will, when large parts of Syria's history, such as Aleppo's souks, have suffered and still suffer damage impossible to measure.
November 14, 2016
Syrian rebels mentored by Turkey said they were positioned to launch an assault to drive the Islamic State out of the strategic town of al-Bab today, but it remains unclear whether they will actually throw themselves into what most analysts agree will be a bloody battle.
Pro-government dailies trumpeted the news of the Turkish-backed rebel advance, saying the forces were only 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from the mainly Sunni Arab town. But the English-language Daily Sabah quoted a Free Syria Army commander as saying the operation could take days or weeks. The commander added, "We will see how reinforced [IS] is in the town.
Al-Bab has emerged as something of a test of Turkish resolve in Syria, not against IS but against the Syrian Kurds. The Syrian Kurds are desperate to lay their hands on al-Bab because it would allow them to link the large, uninterrupted swath of land they rule east of the mainly Arab town of Manbij to the mainly Kurdish enclave of Afrin that lies further west. Turkey says it will not permit further expansion of a contiguous Kurdish-run zone along its borders but has faced stiff resistance from Russia, which controls the skies over al-Bab.
Until recently, most analysts concurred that Russia would prevent Turkeys rebel proxies from taking al-Bab because of the threat they would pose to Syrian regime forces in Aleppo, just as they appear to be gaining control over the war-ravaged city. And while Turkey has backed the rebel advance from the ground, Turkish jets have not taken part in any offensive action since last months wave of sorties against Syrian Kurds, presumably because of Syrian threats to shoot them down.
But Turkish airstrikes on Syria resumed over the weekend, hitting 15 IS positions near al-Bab. Many speculate that Ankara has struck some kind of deal with the Russians and by extension with the Syrian regime over Aleppo. The prevailing wisdom is that the agreement involves Turkish pledges to rein in rebel forces, notably the al-Qaeda-linked group Jabhat al-Nusra, which continues to rely on logistical supply lines from Turkey for its operations in northern Syria.
Last week, US President Barack Obama ordered the Pentagon to find and kill leaders of the group, which remains the most effective fighting force against the Syrian government.
All of this is unfolding in the wake of Donald Trumps surprise victory in the US presidential elections. Trumps previous comments about Syria suggest that he is more closely aligned with the Russian position and that he is not in the least bit interested in deepening US engagement there other than to defeat IS and other jihadist groups.
Indeed, some pundits suggest that he may pull the plug on CIA-vetted Syrian rebels.
Ankara had long hoped that if Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton were to win, as she was widely predicted to, that she would fulfill pledges to create a safe haven for the rebels, action that could eventually lead to the overthrow of the Syrian regime.
Turkey may now have decided to cuts its losses and stomach some kind of reconciliation with the regime, if only to join forces against the Syrian Kurds.
The Syrian Kurds are the one issue on which Ankara and Damascus hold a common view: that their aspirations of self-rule must be crushed. And even before the US election, Ankara had been putting out feelers to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Yet Russia views the Syrian Kurds as a useful lever both against Turkey and the Assad regime. It is therefore improbable that Moscow would ditch them altogether.
We dont really understand what is going on in al-Bab or in Syria in general, for that matter, said Syrian Kurdish commentator Barzan Iso in a Skype interview with Al-Monitor, echoing a widespread view among Syrian Kurds. The situation is likely to remain murky at least until Trump takes office. In the meantime, Turkey will seize on the transition hiatus to press forward with its own goals.
November 11, 2016
DIYARBAKIR, Turkey Around 8 a.m. Nov. 4, life was just getting animated in Diyarbakir when a white minibus drove to the entrance of the police compound in the Baglar district. Its driver braked hard to avoid crashing into a taxi that cut in front of him. According to closed-circuit security camera recordings that Al-Monitor was allowed to watch, the irate taxi driver got out and angrily marched to the minibus. He opened the door of the minibus and almost immediately started shouting Bomb, bomb and ran away. Everyone in the area started running in panic. That was the end of the recording. A massive explosion and a mushroom cloud followed, along with the sound of gunshots.
Three or four people with shaven faces in a car opened rifle fire and withdrew while firing, an eyewitness who did not want to be identified told Al-Monitor.
The vicinity of the explosion looked like a war zone with almost all buildings damaged. Chaos prevailed, with people wailing and frantically searching for friends and relatives.
The Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) was the usual suspect in the bombing, especially in Diyarbakir. But reports began coming out that Selahattin Demirtas, the chairman of the pro-Kurdish Peoples Democratic Party (HDP), and several other senior HDP officials and parliamentarians were in detention in the compound.
Arguments raged. A group of anti-government, pro-PKK protesters chased and attempted to lynch two men who were shouting, Murderer Selahattin and Murderer PKK. One young man involved in that lynching attempt, which was witnessed by Al-Monitor, tried to justify his behavior: Why should the PKK be behind the blast when our own parliamentarians are inside? They are automatically accusing us.
Who was the perpetrator? The first official statement came from the government of Diyarbakir province: At 7:53 a.m. Nov. 4 in Baglar district near the riot police compound, while there were many civilians and students in the streets, a vehicle-borne explosive device was set off by members of a separatist terror organization, the statement said. The separatist terror organization referred to was the PKK. But no one was satisfied with this statement because people know from experience that the PKK is instinctively accused in all violent incidents whether or not it is involved.
The official statement said the PKK had claimed responsibility for the attack, but no such claim was found in news reports or on social media. PKK supporters persistently questioned why the organization would attack a building where HDP parliamentarians were kept.
A day later, the Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the attack on its website, first in Arabic and then in Turkish. The report disseminated by Reuters news agency comforted the PKK partisans, who felt vindicated.
HDP parliamentarian Sirri Sureyya Onder on the same day said the target of the attack was the HDP parliamentarians who were in detention. In a briefing with journalists, he said all the legislators were in the same compound during the attacks.
Our Co-Chair Mrs. Figen [Yuksekdag], myself and two parliamentarians were in there while our Co-Chair Selahattin Demirtas had been taken to the court. We entered the building and then the explosion happened. Our party officials, citizens and co-chairs have been in detention in that compound for 26 days. This massacre was a precisely planned operation, Onder said.
Onder then gave the details of the attack to a news website. We were just given a medical checkup. A massive explosion brought down everything around us from the walls, ceilings. My neck was bleeding. Police took us out to the corridor. We heard 10 minutes of sustained gunfire. We know the police were firing. There were casualties in the building. What panic and fury, Onder told Gazete Duvar.
The IS claim for responsibility dispelled tensions in Diyarbakir for a while. People remembered a voice recording that was distributed three days before the Diyarbakir attack in which IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was heard ordering attacks against Turkey.
But in the afternoon, the government issued another statement, which was sent to Al-Monitor. It still insisted that the PKK was the culprit.
On Nov. 4, after the attack, our province made a statement saying the attack was claimed by the separatist terror organization. But because of a news report by an international news agency based on sources, the media began saying that (IS) had claimed responsibility for the attack. Our statement was based on intercepts of radio communications of members of the separatist terror organization. In three different intercepts it is heard that a terrorist code-named Kemal had carried out the attack using three tons of explosives. This clearly proves that the attack was carried by that separatist terror organization. Others news has been fabricated to create a different perception and to protect the terror organization, the statement said.
The governments persistence that the PKK was responsible did not persuade everyone, although it had provided the code name of the attacker and even provided a copy of his identity card. PKK supporters were sure that the perpetrator was IS until two days later, when Firat News Agency, which is close to the PKK, reported that the attack was claimed by the Kurdistan Freedom Falcons (TAK), who are linked to the PKK.
The name they used as the perpetrator matched the one used by the government. At first, people didnt want to believe this bombshell of a report. There were allegations that Firat News Agencys website was hacked. Al-Monitor was among those who investigated but couldnt find any evidence of hacking. Shortly afterward, a statement by editors of the site declared that there was no hacking and their report was correct.
People were furious and disappointed. An organization struggling for the Kurds had blown up a neighborhood where Kurds lived and almost killed political representatives of the Kurds. It didnt take long for HDP deputies to react to the TAK.
The perpetrator was thus identified and only one more question needed an answer: How, in a city where security measures are so strict, was a minibus laden with three tons of explosives able to reach the police compound?
For the inhabitants of the ravaged neighborhood, the identity of the perpetrators doesnt mean anything except 11 fatalities, wrecked residences and dramas left behind.
The Alabama Career Center System will host a job readiness workshop on Nov. 21 at the Montgomery Career Center.
The workshop will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the center at 1060 East South Blvd. in Montgomery.
The center will conduct the four-hour training, which will cover such topics as resume preparation, interview skills, how to "dress for success" and soft skills, such as timeliness and proper communication skills. Workshop participants will receive a certificate that they can present to employers at the job fair.
The workshop is free and open to the public, but registration is strongly encouraged. For more information or to register, call Tiffany Daniels or Jackie McQueen at (334) 286-1746.
The workshop is to help jobseekers prepare for a regional job fair to be held in Montgomery on Nov. 30 at the Cramton Bowl Multiplex. The Nov. 30 job fair is being sponsored by the Alabama Career Center System/Department of Labor, WSFA 12 News and the City of Montgomery.
To register for the job fair, visit here.
A pizza pie chart and cover shot
A new Terry's Pizza restaurant is being targeted for an early-2017 opening. (Bob Gathany/bgathany@al.com)
They're using an old takeout menu as a road map.
For their upcoming location of Terry's Pizza across from Huntsville's Grissom High School, Star Market plans on offering 95 to 98 percent of the items that were on vintage Terry's menus. Signature pies like the Chef's Special and Sticky Fingers. Subs. Calzones. Spaghetti. Lasagna.
"If you've been a Terry's Pizza fan in the past, you'll recognize the menu," says Star Market's Mark Tow. A grocery store/pharmacy with locations in Huntsville and Meridianville, Star purchased the Terry's Pizza name and recipes after the beloved pizzeria closed in 2006 following the death of owner Lou Pejza.
Star has been making and selling carry-out and "take-and-bake" Terry's pizzas out of its Five Points store since 2008.
But the new Terry's location, targeted for an early-2017 opening, will be the first standalone Terry's restaurant with a dining room since the Governors Drive, South Parkway and North Parkway locations shuttered 10 years ago. Terry's will take over a cozy Bailey Cove Shopping Center space formerly home to Coffee Tree and, most recently, Lizzy B's Bakery and Deli. The restaurant will seat around 80 people. There will be a drive-thru for pick-up orders and take-and-bake pizzas available. According to Tow, the restaurant's design will likely incorporate booths, brick veneer walls, hardwood floors and a burgundy awning evoking the one from the old North Parkway Terry's.
The classic Terry's Pizza logo of an ecstatic mustachioed chef will also be involved.
Exterior photo of the former Terry's Pizza location on North Parkway. (File photo)
"I think they'll be pleasantly surprised when the building gets done," Tow says. "It's going to have a lot of the old feel of a Terry's Pizza and it's also going to be more of a modern, casual type restaurant. Tow is Star Market's director of pharmacy operations. And the connection between pharmacy and pizza is? "You've got to understand we're a little company," Tow says with a laugh. "People wear a lot of hats." Demolition has begun on the Baily Cove space, and the building permits are in place, Tow says.
Star Market also maintained an embedded, to-go Terry's Pizza at its Bailey Cove grocery store. After that 9020 Bailey Cove Road grocery closed in October 2014, Star kept its pharmacy there open, until moving the pharmacy to Bailey Cove Shopping Center, address 7900 Bailey Cove Road, where it had previously operated for three years or so until 2010.
The return of Star Discount Pharmacy to the shopping center helped bring about the upcoming Terry Pizza restaurant there.
"This one kind of fell in our lap," Tow says. "I put a bug in the ear of the landlord: 'If a place opens up where a Terry's Pizza could come in we would be interested.' And they came to me and said, 'Hey we got one.'" Other business located in the shopping center include Casa Blanca Mexican Restaurant & Cantina, health club You Fit and closeout retailer Tuesday Morning.
Star signed a lease for the Bailey Cove Terry's space this summer. Some of their pharmacy customers have known about this development since around that time, Tow says. "We don't hesitate to tell them we're coming. It's not a secret but we've been low-key because we don't have an opening date. We're going to keep it low key until we're close. I don't want to rush this, I want to do it right."
Ben Otieno worked for decades at the South Parkway Terry's Pizza and for the last eight years he's made those pies at Five Points Star Market. (Matt Wake/mwake@al.com)
According to Tow, the to-go Terry's inside Star Market's Five Points location, address 704 Pratt Ave. N.E. sells "just under 1,000 pizzas a week."
Ben Otieno makes a lot of those pies. Otieno worked at Terry's former South Parkway location for decades, and when Star Market owner Darden Heritage purchased the Terry's name and recipes and opened the Five Points embedded location, Otieno and other former Terry's employees were brought in to work there. After the Terry's restaurants closed in 2006, Birmingham's VR Business Brokers announced the Terry's name, recipes and some equipment could be bought for about $200,000, according to a Huntsville Times report from that year. A former typewriter repairman from the Midwest, Lou Pejza co-founded Terry's original Governors location in 1959 with sister Theresa (for whom the restaurant was named) and brother-in-law Earl Alger. The business was built on Chicago-style pies.
Tow says although Otieno will remain at the Five Points location, he'll play a big role in training employees for the Bailey Cove restaurant. "He is our connection to the past," Tow says of Otieno. "He knows how they made them back then and how we make them now."
So what is Otieno looking forward to most about the return of a standalone Terry's Pizza restaurant?
"Getting the families back together," Otieno says. "I used to enjoy watching the families coming in, having dinner together, chit-chat." He then uses his hand to illustrate the height of a young child and adds, "I saw kids from about this age and they come in here now married with children of their own, still eating Terry's Pizza." Otieno was born in Kenya and says customers will often recognize him by his speaking accent: "You're were on South Parkway weren't you?"
The most popular pies at the Five Points Star Market Terry's Pizza include the Sticky Fingers Special, which features sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms and extra cheese.
Otieno says the key to keeping Terry's pizzas authentic is "consistency. If you're not consistent the customers don't come back." The sauce is another key, he says, "There's a secret in it - that one I'm not going to tell."
Bessemer Homicide Charges.jpg
Steven McMillon, Tyran McMillon and Damyon Hill are charged with capital murder.
(Bessemer Police)
Three young men are now formally charged in a Friday morning shooting that left a Bessemer 20-year-old dead.
Bessemer police on Monday announced capital murder charges against Steven McMillon, 21; Damyon Hill, 19, and Tyran McMillon, 18. All three are from Bessemer, and two of the suspects are brothers.
DeCarlos DeAndre Walker, 20, was killed in the shooting. Police were dispatched about 10:25 a.m. to the 500 block of Seventh Avenue North, said Sgt. Charlie Burton. When they arrived in the neighborhood they found Walker suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead on the scene at 10:22 a.m.
The McMillon brothers and Hill were taken into custody shortly after the slaying, and a vehicle towed as evidence. Bessemer police Sgt. Cortice Miles on Monday said investigators believe the shooting stemmed from an argument that happened more than a week ago.
The slaying is the sixth this year in Bessemer. In all of Jefferson County, there have been 127 homicides.
The investigation is ongoing, Miles said, and anyone with information about the case is asked to call Bessemer police at 205-425-2411 or the department's Tip Line at 205-428-3541.
Childersburg Student paddled.jpg
( )
The father of an eighth-grade Childersburg boy said his son was paddled at school for writing "Trump" on the blackboard, and he's livid.
"I don't think you ought to be punished for writing the president's name,'' Troy Stephenson told Al.com. "Yeah, I'm pretty mad."
The incident happened Thursday at Childersburg Middle School. This is what was written on the Talladega County Schools Discipline Referral Form sent home with the student: "Students were told on yesterday because of the sensitivity of the matter, not to discuss the election unless it was in history class. They were told any discussion would result in an office referral. (The student) decided to write "Trump" on my board this morning, disregarding others that were in the classroom. This resulted in some upset students. I informed the student that the name (it could have been the other candidate) wasn't the issue. But it was the nature of everything behind it."
The disciplinary form reflected the following actions: conference with pupil, phone call to parents, and corporal punishment. Efforts to reach Childersburg Middle School officials for comment Friday and Monday were unsuccessful.
Griff Hill, the coordinator for secondary programs for Talladega County Schools, said he couldn't comment specifically on disciplinary action against any student, but said, "I can say with 100 percent accuracy, no student would ever be disciplined based on their political beliefs. There would never be a situation in our school system where the students would be disciplined because of their support of a political candidate."
Last week, Tuscaloosa City Schools received a number of complaints after a high school math teacher projected an image of Donald Trump firing President Barack Obama in his classroom on Wednesday.
In Childersburg, Stephenson said the school called him and told him what happened. They then asked him if he'd rather his 14-year-old get paddled, or spend the day in in-school suspension. "I said I didn't think they should be punished at all,'' Stephenson said. "They said it caused a disruption."
He told the school his wife was on her way, but if they couldn't wait for her to arrive, they should let his son make the decision. "I told them 'I don't want you to do anything,'' he said.
By the time his wife arrived, the young teen had already been paddled by Assistant Principal Chad Bynum, Stephenson said. Alabama is one of just 15 states with a state law that explicitly allows for corporal punishment. Another 29 states specifically ban the practice.
For two weeks leading up to the Nov. 8 election, Stephenson said, the students had been given homework assignments to watch election coverage and study the process. It's only natural, he said, that the students would continue those discussions after the election results came in. "You piqued their interest, and then when the candidate you wanted to win didn't win, you want it hush-hush," he said. "That's what it looks like to me."
Stephenson said he spoke with a school official Monday morning who told him his son was paddled not because he wrote "Trump" on the board, but because he wrote anything on the board at all.
Stephenson has contacted a lawyer, and they are deciding what to do next. In the meantime, he said, he has instructed his son to avoid all political discussions at school.
"Basically what they've done is give them a gag order. That's against the First Amendment, and I just don't understand,'' he said. "It just seems drastic to me."
Stephenson's attorney, Scott Morro, said Bynum and the Talladega County School Board are sending the wrong message. "The Presidential Election had been discussed for months in class. The election results and their ramifications should have been discussed as well. What a perfect time to teach,'' Morro said.
"Instead, the students were banned from discussing it. The student shouldn't ignore rules or instruction but those same rules and instruction shouldn't stifle free speech,'' he said. "They have equated writing Trump on a blackboard to yelling fire in a crowded theatre. Corporal punishment, without the parents' permission in this case, is unreasonable. We are still gathering evidence and will determine what action to take in the future. The family hopes that by bringing this incident to the forefront that the Talladega School Board will think before they act."
More than 200 volunteers turned out for a cleanup event Sunday at Lake Purdy, which has receded dramatically in the midst of a record-setting drought in Alabama.
The reservoir, a major source of drinking water for the Birmingham area, is down to about 25 percent of its usual capacity, exposing large swaths of land usually covered by water. The volunteers took advantage of the opportunity to remove hundreds of beer bottles and cans, at least a dozen tires, assorted car and appliance parts, and at least one discarded computer with a crayfish living inside (see the video below).
John McDonald of Birmingham said he visited the lake just to look around on Saturday, and came back the next day for the cleanup.
"It's just incredible," McDonald said of the dry lake bed. "We probably got 10 or 15 bags (of trash). We got some Vienna sausage cans, a lot of old Coke cans and beer bottles.
"It's great that there's such a big turnout today, but hopefully we never have to do this again."
Ken Delap, manager of the Lake Purdy Fish and Boat shop, said a lot of people are visiting the lake outside of the usual crowd of bass fishers.
"We're actually sort of becoming a tourist attraction," Delap said. "How often can you go walk along somewhere that's usually 20 feet underwater?"
Delap helped organize the cleanup day, and during the afternoon became "Trash Man," by hot-gluing small pieces of trash to his suit.
A large dumpster brought out for the occasion was almost completely full by the end of the cleanup.
See the video below for more from Sunday's event at Lake Purdy.
Family Dollar Robbery.jpg
(Tuscaloosa Police)
Police are trying to identify a man who robbed employees of a Tuscaloosa store at gunpoint late Sunday night.
Officers responded about 9:30 p.m. to Dollar General in the 200 block of 14th Street on a report of a robbery. When they arrived on the scene, employees told them that while closing the store, a black male wearing a green hooded jumpsuit and sunglasses entered and robbed them.
The gunman took an undisclosed amount of money, as well as phones belonging to the store and the employees, said Lt. Teena Richardson. While searching the area, officers recovered the suspect's clothing, all three phones and money in the area of the railroads north of the store.
Anyone with information on the suspect or the crime is asked to call Tuscaloosa Police Department's Criminal Investigations Division at 205-248-4520 or Crime Stoppers at 205-752-7867.
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Reince Priebus, Chair of the Republican National Committee, right, speaks as President-elect Donald Trump gives his acceptance speech during his election night rally, Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016, in New York.
(AP Photo/Julie Jacobson) (Julie Jacobson)
WASHINGTON -- Donald Trump on Sunday named Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus his White House chief of staff, elevating one of his loyal GOP advisers with a deep expertise of the Washington establishment Trump has vowed to shake up.
Priebus, a close ally of House Speaker Paul Ryan, called the appointment "an honor" and predicted the billionaire "will be a great president for all Americans."
Trump also named Stephen Bannon, his campaign CEO and executive on leave from conservative website Breitbart, to be the president-elect's chief strategist and senior counsel.
According to a statement, Trump called Priebus and Bannon "equal partners."
"I am thrilled to have my very successful team continue with me in leading our country," Trump said in the statement. "Steve and Reince are highly qualified leaders who worked well together on our campaign and led us to a historic victory. Now I will have them both with me in the White House as we work to make America great again."
With Vice President-elect Mike Pence as transition chief, the trio was expected to organize the incoming administration, according to a statement from the Trump camp.
There was much to steady. The appointments came after a day in which Trump's tough-talking plan to rein in illegal immigration showed signs Sunday of cracking, with the president-elect backing off his vow to build a solid wall along the southern U.S. border and Ryan rejecting any "deportation force" targeting people living in the country illegally.
After Trump told CBS' "60 Minutes" that his border wall might look more like a fence in spots, the combative billionaire took to Twitter to settle some scores.
President-elect Donald Trump tells '60 Minutes' he plans to deport 2 to 3 million undocumented immigrants
During a four-hour spree, Trump savaged the New York Times and gloated about the GOP stalwarts lining up to congratulate him, bragging that staunch critics and GOP rivals John Kasich, Mitt Romney and Jeb Bush had sent attaboys. Former presidents George W. and George H.W. Bush also had sent their "best wishes on the win. Very nice!" The New York Times, Trump wrote to his 14 million followers, is "dishonest" and "highly inaccurate."
As Trump revenge-tweeted, threats flew between power brokers, and protests across the country continued.
The president-elect retreated from the campaign promise that had inspired his supporters chant "Build the wall!" at Trump's massive campaign rallies.
Would he accept a fence in some spots on the border? In an interview to be aired Sunday, Trump told "60 Minutes": "For certain areas, I would, but certain areas, a wall is more appropriate. There could be some fencing."
Excerpts of the interview were released in advance.
Trump also had vowed to immediately deport all 11 million people in the country illegally. But in the interview, he said he's focusing first on ousting or incarcerating 2 million to 3 million "that are criminals and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers." Trump emphasized that securing the border is his very first immigration priority.
On that, Ryan agreed. But on CNN's "State of the Union," Ryan rejected the kind of "mass deportations" Trump had championed during the campaign.
"We are not planning on erecting a deportation force," he said.
More tension emerged Sunday when Trump's campaign manager, Kellyanne Conway, said Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid should be careful in a "legal sense" about characterizing Trump as a sexual predator. When asked whether Trump was threatening to sue Reid, Conway said no.
But Adam Jentleson, Reid's deputy chief of staff, said Trump is "hiding behind his Twitter account and sending his staff on TV to threaten his critics."
Meanwhile, another Trump aide -- Rudy Giuliani -- suggested that the president-elect should have a "blind trust" to run his global empire to avoid potential conflicts of interest. But he said three of Trump's adult children should probably have a hand in that trust.
"There's no perfect way to do this," he told CNN's "State of the Union." ''You have to have some confidence in the integrity of the president.
Also on Sunday, Republicans backed off decades of investigating Clinton. House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy said on "Fox News Sunday" that GOP-led congressional Republicans will focus on policy and leave any probes of Clinton to law enforcement.
Ryan, meanwhile, tried to calm the nation by suggesting that "people should just really put their minds at ease, we are pluralistic, we're inclusive." Acts of hate, he said, had nothing to do with the GOP.
"People who espouse those views, they're not Republicans and we don't want them in our party even if they're thinking about it. And I'm confident Donald Trump feels the same way," the Wisconsin Republican said on CNN's "State of the Union."
But at least on Sunday, Trump seemed to prefer to relish his election win.
At one point, he noted that Gov. Kasich, who refused to endorse him, "of the GREAT, GREAT, GREAT STATE OF Ohio called to congratulate me on the win." Trump pointedly did not return the congratulations or offer thanks to Kasich. "The people of Ohio were incredible!" he tweeted.
Governor John Kasich of the GREAT, GREAT, GREAT State of Ohio called to congratulate me on the win. The people of Ohio were incredible! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2016
He later attributed his win to his performance in the presidential debates against Democrat Hillary Clinton.
"The debates, especially the second and third, plus speeches and intensity of the large rallies, plus OUR GREAT SUPPORTERS, gave us the win!"
A teen who pleaded guilty to felony murder in the 2014 killing of a Domino's deliveryman was sentenced today to 20 years in prison.
Corey Arrington Jr., 19, was charged in the December 21, 2014 death of Najeh Masaeid during a robbery. The incident happened at The District at the Summit, an apartment complex in the popular shopping area off of U.S. 280.
He was also sentenced by Jefferson County Circuit Judge Stephen Wallace to 10 years for robbing a Papa John's deilveryman at the same apartment complex weeks before Masaeid's death. The sentences will run concurrently.
Masaeid, 63, was called to deliver a pizza to a vacant apartment in the complex. When he arrived, Arrington punched Masaeid and knocked him down, before punching the deliveryman again.
Police testified at a preliminary hearing last year that Arrington said when Masaeid fell, he hit his head on the concrete ground. Arrington said Masaeid was bleeding from the mouth and choking when he turned the body over to get his wallet.
According to the owner of the Cahaba Heights' Domino's, Masaeid did not have more than $20 in his wallet.
Masaeid's car was still running when police arrived, after a resident found the Jordanian man's body. A warming bag holding pizzas was found near him.
At a preliminary hearing last year, Detective Charles Wilson said Arrington, who was 17 at the time of Masaeid's death, placed the pizza order via an app called Pinger. The app number was traced back to Arrington.
Arrington pleaded guilty to felony murder, a lesser charge than his original charge of capital murder.
"This case was never a capital murder case," said John Lentine, one of Arrington's attorneys. "This was an unintentional homicide that occurred during a robbery."
Lentine said that if Masaeid did not fall and hit his head during the incident, Arrington would only be facing robbery charges.
During the sentencing hearing, Domino's manager Clara Hogan and Masaeid's daughter Jordan Hosey spoke. Arrington and his mother, Neville Means, also spoke.
"He doesn't deserve to walk the streets we walk," Hogan said through tears. When asked how long Masaeid had worked alongside her, she replied: "I think he was born with the store."
She said that whenever she needed someone to cover a shift, Masaeid was the first to volunteer. Hogan said Masaeid would always say, "Najeh come, Najeh come! Just call me!"
Hosey, Masaeid's only daughter, said her father always dreamed of coming to the United States. When he arrived, he relied on hard work and taught his family to do the same. She cried when she told the court how her father would not get the chance to see his grandchildren grow.
"He won't be at their graduations, their weddings..." she said.
She said her father always stressed to his four children that if they chose to disobey a rule, there would be consequences. Looking at Arrington, Hosey said, "You made that choice."
"We will never forget the day all of this was changed because of his decision," she said. "I forgive the tragedy he caused, but I don't forgive him."
More than two rows were filled with family and friends of Arrington. During his short statement, the teen said he was "truly sorry" for his actions which resulted in Masaeid's death.
"If I could give my life for his... I would," he said.
Arrington added that he would suffer every day of his life.
Means reiterated that her son was sorry for his actions, and that he prayed for Masaeid after he ran from the crime scene. "I'm a hard worker. I believe in working- I tried to teach my son that," she said. "Give my son a second chance to right his wrong."
Arrington Jr. at his sentencing hearing on November 14, 2016 (Ivana Hrynkiw | ihrynkiw@al.com)
Before announcing the sentence, Wallace said that Arrington did not plan the murder; but the robbery was premeditated.
"There's no way in the world I can come up with a sentence that equates with what your father's life was worth," he said to Hosey. "I wish I could put things back."
Wallace said Arrington took responsibility for the crime and has no criminal record. Those factors influenced his decision, he said.
Arrington told police he did not intend to kill Masaeid, which Lentine repeated throughout the sentencing hearing.
Chief Jefferson County Medical Examiner Dr. Greg Davis said Masaeid died of a brain injury caused by blunt force trauma. During questioning from Lentine at the preliminary hearing, Davis said the injury could have been caused by Masaeid hitting the concrete.
Hosey said after the hearing she was disappointed with the sentence, but her family would "rest better" now that the case was over. "I've let the poison in my heart... affect me for so long. It's not up to me to be the judge."
She described the past two years as emotionally draining, and she hopes that Arrington changes his life for the better when he is released from prison. Hosey added that she did not think Arrington's remorse was sincere.
"He came here for the American Dream and it was shattered by American greed,'' Hosey previously said of her father. "Where's the justice in that?"
T.A. "Theo" Lawson II, who served more than a decade as an assistant attorney in Jefferson County's legal department, was recently tapped to lead that department. He is the first African American to hold that job.
The Jefferson County Commission on Nov. 2 unanimously approved Lawson's appointment as Jefferson County Attorney.
"I am elated to have been chosen Jefferson County Attorney," Lawson said. "I hope that my selection by this commission is evidence to all, of the progress that is being made here in Jefferson County."
Lawson replaces Carol Sue Nelson, who left the county attorney's job on Sept. 30.
"After interviewing over a dozen applicants, Mr. Lawson proved to be the best candidate for the position," said Jimmie Stephens, president of the Jefferson County Commission. "His institutional knowledge coupled with a very competent legal skill set and loyalty to the county clearly presented Theo as the man for the job.
The Jefferson County legal department represents the county commission and other departments in legal matters, including defending the county against lawsuits.
Among those legal issues is the on-going federal monitoring of the county's personnel department. U.S. District Judge Lynwood Smith in in late 2013 appointed a receiver to oversee the Jefferson County human resources department after finding the county commission had not complied with a 1982 federal consent decree that mandates the county not discriminate against blacks and women in hiring, firing and other personnel matters.
Smith holds monthly status conferences to receive reports from the receiver to see how the county is doing in complying with the decree and efforts to revamp the county's hiring process.
Lawson is a 1990 graduate of the Birmingham School of Law. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Communication degree from the University of Alabama (1984).
Before his appointment by the commission Lawson had served since 2004 as an assistant county attorney.
Lawson has also worked during that same time in law enforcement.
A certified law enforcement officer, Lawson is a graduate of the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department Law Enforcement Academy and has been an instructor at the Tuscaloosa, Birmingham and the Alabama Northeastern Law Enforcement academies.
Last year Lawson was appointed as Director of Public Safety Director and Chief Law Enforcement Officer for the Miles College Police Department. Since 1998 he has also served as a professor at Miles Law School.
Lawson is the son of Lawson State founder T.A. Lawson. The college was founded in 1950.
Also, since 2000 Lawson has been a reserve Lieutenant with the Fairfield Police Department serving as legal adviser for the police chief and investigations division and as firearms and tactical instructor for the department.
Lawson also once served as a prosecutor in the Jefferson County District Attorney's Office. He served from 1991 to 2000 as a deputy district attorney, prosecuting a variety of cases, from capital murders and rapes to misdemeanor appeals.
From 2000 to 2004 was chief assistant city attorney and deputy director of the City of Birmingham legal department.
Lawson noted he has a connection to another person who is on the verge of making history - Lynneice Washington who is leading in the tight race for district attorney of the Jefferson County Bessemer Cutoff.
If her victory is ultimately confirmed after a Nov. 21 automatic recount, she would become the first African American, and the first woman, in Jefferson County history told the position of district attorney in the county.
"Six years ago we were campaigning together. Me for district attorney and she for district judge," Lawson said. "When she was battling cancer I would drive when she couldn't. We both lost. She is a great person."
Washington is leading Republican Bill Veitch by 223 votes and an automatic recount is set because vote difference is less than one half of one percent. Provisional and overseas and military ballots also have yet to be counted. Veitch, who was appointed the cutoff's district attorney in January after the retirement of former cutoff district attorney Arthur Green Jr., is awaiting the results of the recount.
That a guy named William Johnston II voted for Donald Trump in Alabama last Tuesday may not seem extraordinary.
But despite Johnston's very Anglo-sounding name, he is in fact the 20-year-old son of two Brazilian immigrants.
A sophomore business major at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Johnston is one of the just 18 percent of Latino voters who cast their ballots for Trump, according to The Washington Post.
One of the big questions many asked in the day's following Trump's win last week was why so many Latinos voted for him despite his repeated pledges to build a wall between the U.S. and Mexico and deport millions of immigrants. But the Latino vote is not monolithic, and Johnston is no uninformed fool.
'I'm conservative'
For Johnston, it all goes back to his deeply held conservative principles. A diehard disciple of conservative darling Ted Cruz, he even traveled to Iowa to volunteer for the Texas senator's campaign before he lost the presidential primary.
"I'm actually a Ted Cruz guy. I'm big on states' rights and cutting money for big federal programs," he explained in between sips of a Mocha Frappuccino outside a Starbucks on Birmingham's South Side Friday night.
"I'm fiscally conservative, small federal government. I just say I'm conservative when people ask."
But Johnston said that after Trump and Hillary Clinton were selected as their parties' presidential nominees this summer, he did "plenty of research" on the candidates. Though he admits he is new enough to politics that he doesn't know whether he would have backed Ronald Reagan or George W. Bush in their primaries, he eventually concluded that despite disagreeing with a number of Trump's proposals and many of his offensive statements, Clinton was simply unelectable.
"I honestly think WikiLeaks hurt her a lot," he said. "Another big thing was the Supreme Court. When Hillary believes an illegal immigrant has more rights than an unborn baby - which I believe is a human being - that's a big problem."
'He doesn't hate immigration'
And so the topic of immigration was broached. As a Latino who describes himself as a first-generation immigrant, Johnston has gotten plenty of hate both online and off for his decision to vote for a candidate who said that Mexican immigrants are "bringing drugs. They're bringing crime. They're rapists," and who has said he will preside over mass deportations.
Johnston's parents both lived for years near the Brazilian capital of Brasilia before he was born in Atlanta, and they now live in Prattville after a stint of about a dozen years in Alaska.
His mother is of 100 percent Brazilian descent, and his father was born in Rio de Janeiro, but is only half-Brazilian. Johnston's paternal grandfather was a white American who fought for the U.S. in World War II, hence his name.
He may be a member of the first generation of his nuclear family to be born in America - and the first to tweet more than 39,000 times - but that doesn't mean that Johnston has sympathy for people who enter the U.S. illegally. And even if he did, he believes Trump doesn't actually intend to make good on his most extreme anti-immigration proposals.
"There's no way he's going to deport every single illegal immigrant. It's not going to work," he said. "The main thing people will tell you is Trump hates immigrants. He doesn't hate immigration, he hates illegal immigration."
Rather than simply deporting all illegal immigrants, as has been floated in the past, Johnston believes that there should be a difficult and expensive path to citizenship for them to attain citizenship, so long as they have not been convicted of a crime.
'Middle ground'
That doesn't fall in line with some of the hardline right-wing or mainstream GOP proposals, but Johnston says that he is no typical Republican and that rather than being doctrinaire and overly partisan, he prefers to "find that middle ground" while upholding his conservative principles.
"I would say I'm pretty conservative. I don't agree with the way the typical Republicans do everything. A lot of them are RINOs [Republicans In Name Only]," he said. "But I don't like trying to polarize."
Those two statements may seem at odds, and Johnston's strong support for proposals like the flat tax, mandatory voter ID and harsh cuts or outright elimination of entire federal agencies may seem anathema to compromise with liberals. But he also thinks Trump should enact some more progressive policies, such as a heavy investment in infrastructure. And he believes that "American society needs an authority figure - not to fear, but for people to respect."
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Customers talk outside Berlin Plaza Quick Stop in Cullman, Ala., on June 10, 2014. The store was the scene of a shooting two days earlier that preceded the slaying on a man convicted of sexually abusing a girl in 2002. The girl's father is now charged with murder in the shooting.
((AP Photo/Jay Reeves) )
An Alabama man scheduled for trial today in the killing of his daughter's sexual abuser pleaded guilty to murder in Cullman County Circuit Court.
Jay Maynor, 43, of Cullman, was sentenced to 40 years in prison for the June 2014 killing of Raymond Earl Brooks, a 59-year-old Berlin man, The Cullman Times reported. Brooks pleaded guilty to sexually abusing Maynor's daughter 15 years ago.
Circuit Judge Gregory Nicholas issued the sentence and accepted Maynor's plea.
Maynor also was sentenced to 20 years in prison for attempted murder because he opened fire outside a country store in the Berlin community, The Times reported.
Just before Brooks was killed, Maynor saw and fired at a man who had been dating his stepdaughter. The boyfriend ran into the Berlin Plaza Quick Stop on U.S. 278 and hid.
Brooks pleaded guilty to sexual abuse in 2002. Although he was sentenced to five years in prison, he later received probation, court records show.
Sulaimania When gold appears in the Euphrates River, out of a hundred men, only one will survive so recounted a Kurdish woman from Kirkuk whom I met on my way to Sulaimania in Iraqs Kurdistan region. She was paraphrasing a famous hadith, or saying, attributed to the Prophet Muhammad.
Its an old saying, its in our books, she insisted. A hundred men, and only one will survive. Isnt this happening all around us today? People are coming to my country and fighting and dying for what? Does anybody know?
This hadith about gold in the Euphrates has become an oft-repeated truism since the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq. The gold appeared for the Kurdish region and lasted a decade a decade of prosperity, reconstruction and hope before the advent of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS).
Two years after ISILs declaration of its so-called caliphate, the ongoing battle for Mosul has elicited a wide range of reactions in Iraqs northern Kurdistan region. But the overarching sentiments are hopelessness, apathy and cynicism.
READ MORE: Money and patience grow short in Iraqi Kurdistan
They promised us independence after Saddam Husseins regime fell, said the Kirkuki woman. But now whenever our president [Massoud Barzani] appears on TV to talk about independence, we all laugh. We know hes trying to distract us from some crisis or corruption scandal. But nobody buys it any more.
Once a post-war boomtown for foreign investors, the Kurdish region today is a ghost town. And the public sector salary crisis, which began in late 2014, has now taken its toll. by
Whether the crisis is Barzanis refusal to cede his presidential post (his term expired in August 2015) or the expected tsunami of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from Mosul, people are fed up.
Or as one politician told me, off the record: Independence? What are you talking about? We cant afford to run the few cities we have under Kurdish regional control. This war isnt about grabbing lands. This isnt about independence. This is about holding on to what we have.
Indeed, a festering dispute between Baghdad and Erbil over illicit oil sales has meant that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has not received its 16 percent share of the Iraqi budget for months. Once a post-war boomtown for foreign investors, the Kurdish region today is a ghost town. And the public sector salary crisis, which began in late 2014, has now taken its toll.
Its the [mostly Arab] IDPs who are keeping the business going in the bazaar, says one resident of Sulaimania. They still receive their pensions and salaries from the Baghdad government. But here, the Kurds are getting nothing. The IDPs are richer than we are!
A resolution of the dispute with Baghdad, reached last month, was dampened by internal Kurdish bickering. The Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) party, which holds sway over the province of Sulaimania and Kirkuk, accused the rival Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) of misappropriating the Kurdish regional budget. Meanwhile, the average Kurdish public sector worker hasnt been paid in months, and pensions for invalids and the elderly have been slashed.
As a consequence, public schools and universities are now closed teachers havent been paid. Only the wealthy can afford to attend private schools and universities.
We have never seen so many people enlist for Peshmerga service, quipped the politician. Its about the only public sector job that is getting salaries paid at least from time to time.
The Kirkuk woman lamented the state of her nation: An entire generation is being deprived of an education. What will become of us? A nation of shoe-shiners and vegetable sellers? Our politicians seem to be telling us, forget your education, get a menial job to make ends meet.
In a region where most media outlets are controlled by one party or another, and reliable information is scarce, many continue to rely on hearsay or a neighbours anecdotes.
READ MORE: Kurdish war history preserved through art
Rumours are rife in town about IDPs in their midst supposedly sympathising with ISIL, or about Kurdish politicians making deals with neighbouring countries, purportedly giving away 50 percent of the regions oil wealth.
They are accusing us of trying to change demographics, of burning down Arab villages But whose demographics are really changing? asked one politician. We have 1.5 million Arab IDPs living across the Kurdistan region today in Erbil, in Sulaimania, in Dohuk and who will likely never return to their hometowns because they cant. So whose demographics are changing?
Follow Tanya Goudsouzian on Twitter: @tgoudsouzian
While one resident sees Trumps victory as a reminder of the hatred in the world, another calls it a miracle.
Hamtramck, Michigan Hip-hop and Middle Eastern music spill from the windows of passing cars, competing for attention with the days final call to prayer at the corner mosque. Men and women, many in headscarves and long robes, walk along the pavements as another day comes to a close.
Welcome to Hamtramck, said to be the most diverse city in Michigan. Last year, the city of 22,400 people became the first in the country to be run by a Muslim-majority city council.
Residents claim their city is its own little world, and they work hard and coexist peacefully here the way Americans are supposed to, they say.
But this little world was shaken on November 8 when Republican nominee Donald Trump was elected president of the United States.
People were shocked, said Saad Almasmari, who tipped Hamtramcks city council to a Muslim majority when he was elected a year ago. We pushed hard for Hillary Clinton.
Almasmari, a 29-year-old immigrant from Yemen, said the city came out in droves to vote, motivated largely by Trumps anti-Islam and anti-immigration rhetoric.
More than half of Hamtramcks residents are practising Muslims and immigrants from Yemen, Bangladesh, Poland and Bosnia make up the majority of the citys population. African Americans also claim a sizable portion.
It hasnt alway been this way: The city was once an enclave of almost exclusively Polish Catholic immigrants. A wave of immigrants from the Middle East and South Asia, however, changed the demographics of the city dramatically.
The shift initially caused a rumble in the community. Tension came to a head with protests about 10 years ago when a local mosque was granted permission to broadcast its call to prayer over a rooftop speaker.
Karen Majewski, Hamtramcks mayor and the daughter of Polish immigrants, said in the past that some Polish residents felt uneasy about the ethnic shift. She, however, supported the mosques efforts to broadcast the call to prayer in 2004.
Majewski has also been outspoken on social media about her disdain for Trump and has shown support for the diversity of her city.
In an open letter to residents posted on Facebook the day after the election, Majewski said: Its no secret that I strongly opposed Trump in this election, and like many of you Im worried about what a Trump presidency would bring for the country and the world
Were all immigrants, and we respect each other
Flags from nations across the globe flutter above Joseph Campau Avenue, a main thoroughfare of the city. Mosques sit across the street from churches. Middle Eastern and European restaurants and supermarkets are scattered throughout the city.
I, as a Muslim, know my non-Muslim neighbour who knows her Catholic neighbour who knows his Jewish neighbour, Almasmari said. Were all immigrants, and we respect each other.
For many, Trumps lack of respect for immigrants and minorities during his campaign seemed to undermine the diversity embraced by the people of Hamtramck.
I didnt think Trump had a chance, said Omar Alkusari. He alienated Muslims, blacks, women and gay people.
Alkusari, who came to the US from Yemen in the 1980s, said he could not fall asleep on election night and stayed awake into the early hours of the morning.
He felt some fear when he heard the results.
I have a lot of worry about what could happen, Alkusari said.
The 33-year-old said he is not fearful for himself so much as much as he is about Muslims in other communities that are not so welcoming as Hamtramck.
Trump stirred up hatred in the country, Alkusari said, and if the president-elect did not mean what he said, then hes a hypocrite, at best, he added.
But Alkusari is still confident that his country will continue to grow in the right direction.
Let the racists see that he cant just kick us out and that he cant just bring Jim Crow laws back, Alkusari said, referring to a set of US laws that once enforced segregation between blacks and whites.
Down one of Hamtramcks signature narrow alleyways is the Al-Islah Islamic Centre, where a mostly Bangladeshi Muslim community meets for prayer.
Abdul Motlib, president of the centre, said Trumps win was nothing short of a miracle. I feel fine about him winning, he said, unlike others in his community.
Motlib thinks Trumps anti-Muslim and immigrant rhetoric was simply a campaigning tool to win the election and believes that the president-elect will behave differently when he is in office.
It is [Gods] decision to have Trump, he said. Of course he will support our community. He will be president for everybody.
Others in the community are not so sure of his equitability, and the harshness of Trumps pre-election behaviour still worries some.
Jeff Urcheck, 25, of Hamtramck, said that he loves the citys diversity and that Trumps words were damaging.
The things he said about Muslims and women are horrifying, Urcheck said. It makes me scared for my neighbours.
A citys resolve
In an aged, brick school building on the Detroit-Hamtramck border, MaNisha Walls, 25, of Detroit, carries on through her day as a school teacher as though nothing in the country has changed. In her heart, however, she said she knows what Trumps election is a revelation.
Trumps election is a reminder of the hatred in this world, Walls, who converted to Islam four years ago, said. Hes ignorant and despicable.
Walls is all three, as she calls it: female, Muslim and black.
Walls teaches third-grade pupils at a private school attended mostly by Muslims. The morning after election, she said, her children came to class curious about what the results meant.
Did you know Trump won? He hates Muslims. Hes going to deport us, she recalls some of the young pupils saying.
Walls said she is not worried about her own life under Trump because she has no problem persevering through any hardships that may come.
Im proud that I stand out and I am different, she said, but it is the children in her classroom she worries about.
My kids arent strong enough yet to know who they are, she told Al Jazeera. It breaks my heart that there is hatred, and I cant always protect them.
The mayors post continues, addressing the fears shared by members of her community: We live in a city whose strength is its diversity, where people live as neighbours no matter what country they come from, no matter the circumstances that brought them here, no matter their language, their ethnicity, no matter the colour of their skin, no matter their religion, no matter their gender, and no matter who they love.
For all the differences in race, religion and opinion packed into Hamtramck, the city is united by its resolve and unwillingness to let these differences divide them.
A series of surprise voting results this year and last has led to much speculation as to the cause of these high-profile prediction failures. They include the election of Donald Trump in the US and of the Conservative Party in Britain, the UK referendum to leave the EU, and the re-election of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Each has its own particular circumstances, of course, but a common denominator has been finger-pointing at opinion polling, with suggestions that the industry is facing a crisis and potential demise. Such thinking is premature, and is largely based on over-simplification, mischaracterisation, and a degree of scapegoating.
It is nothing new for opinion polls not to reflect actual voting outcomes. However, people forget that such polls are not predictions, but snapshots of sentiment at the time they are undertaken. Prominent polling organisations have a good track record, but they make headlines only when they are wrong, giving the impression that they are wrong more often than they actually are.
They are even criticised when they get the result correct, but do not accurately reflect its extent. For instance, opinion polls correctly suggested that last years referendum on Scottish independence would result in a vote to remain part of the UK, but they got flak for suggesting the outcome would be tighter than it turned out to be.
Prediction challenges
Opinion polls considerably underestimated Trumps following, but his rival Hillary Clinton did win the popular vote, albeit by a far smaller margin than they suggested she would. The problem here lies with the US Electoral College, which does not necessarily correlate with the popular vote (hence Trumps victory despite getting fewer votes nationally).
He won a few key states by a very slim margin had they gone Clintons way, she would be the next president, and pollsters would not be facing anywhere near the level of opprobrium they are facing now.
OPINION: Trump Tribe portrait of the New Americans
Opinion polling faces some significant shortcomings that are difficult to overcome, and this should be recognised by those who place great stock in them. Changes in communication technology are complicating the ability to get truly representative samples, and there are suggestions that in the cases of the US election and Brexit, opinion polls underrepresented the white working classes.
It is difficult to predict how people will vote if they tell pollsters they are undecided, or if they do not want to express their political view. People can change their minds, they can decide to not share their opinions or they can flat-out lie, wrote Mona Chalabi, data editor at Guardian US.
This has been exacerbated by the vitriolic nature of certain elections and referendums, among them the US election and Brexit. There are suggestions that some people feel ashamed to tell pollsters how they will vote, either out of fear of being judged, or because they are struggling with their decision.
It is also difficult to predict voter turnout, and which candidate or movement will get more people to the polling booths. Opinion polls may even inadvertently influence this. If they show one side in the lead, this may encourage complacency and galvanise the losing side to maximise turnout.
Polling data led the Clinton campaign to feel quietly confident of a victory in Wisconsin and Michigan, and to therefore air few advertisements in those states, wrote Chalabi. Both ended up voting for Trump.
Keeping up to date with changes in technology, communication platforms, demographics and other relevant factors is often necessarily a reactionary process for pollsters, rather than a proactive one.
Social media bubbles
Newer methods of prediction based on data from social media have been successful, but they have not been around long enough for their flaws to be highlighted by prediction failures. These methods include measuring which side has more tweets in its favour, and measuring engagement data from sites such as Google, Facebook and Twitter.
However, there are obvious shortcomings to this. Not all tweets can be pigeonholed as for or against a particular candidate or party, and they do not necessarily indicate the tweeters voting intentions. In addition, reading a tweet or Facebook post does not necessarily mean the reader endorses the view expressed.
Furthermore, thousands of automated Twitter accounts campaigned for Trump and Clinton. If measuring social media sentiment becomes a more established way of predicting elections, there will be a great incentive for each side to create bots to give the impression they will win, wrote Patrick Evans of the BBCs user-generated content and social news team.
As social media proliferates and becomes a primary news source for a growing number of people, the way it is used is key to explaining the shock over certain voting results. On these platforms, people tend to be connected with like-minded others, and tend to read and share content with which they agree, aided by algorithms that ensure you receive the kind of content you like.
This creates bubbles from which opposing views are minimised if not absent, giving the impression that those views are less popular. As such, shock results are usually only shocking to those whose bubbles have been burst.
Blame is assigned and accusations made, because that is easier and more comforting than facing the fact that your view the one echoed for so long in your self-made chamber is not the prevailing one, or that there is a whole other narrative with which you are unfamiliar.
Sharif Nashashibi is an award-winning journalist and analyst on Arab affairs.
The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial policy.
Donald Trump has been proclaimed an honorary Cossack in St Petersburg. Russia Today editor Margarita Simonyan is driving around Moscow in a car decorated with an American flag, and the crypto-fascist ideologist of Russian neo-imperialism, Aleksandr Dugin, has called for dumping anti-Americanism now that Trump has won. Russia has been rooting for the US president-elect throughout the campaign, so naturally, it is now celebrating his victory.
But it doesnt mean that we are in for an era of reset and reconciliation between the US and Russia. Putin needs Trump not as a friend but as an ideal enemy, who will help him to mobilise his constituency and keep domestic opposition at bay.
Looking for a cartoonish enemy
Yes at the beginning, it will look like the start of a beautiful friendship. Putin wont be himself if he doesnt try and dupe Trump into concessions on Ukraine and Syria. In exchange, he might hand over Edward Snowden to the US. He will have no qualms about it because he views Snowden as a traitor who is now biting the hand that feeds him by openly criticising internet censorship in Russia.
But ultimately the Kremlin has other designs for Trump. The pillar that supports the political regime in Russia is the besieged fortress mentality; it is natural for a people who have seen nothing but misery and genocide for most of the previous century.
To maintain this worldview, its vital to have a powerful enemy that attacks Russian interests across the globe, an omnipotent alien force which ordinary Russians can blame for their misfortunes and bleak, unhappy life.
Apart from coming across as cynical and ruthless, the enemy should be suitably cartoonish and capable of feeding Russian propaganda with ridiculous gaffes and bizarre escapades. George W Bush suited this description ideally. Barack Obama, on the other hand, was problematic too clever, too cautious and surrounded by people who actually understand what modern Russia is. Obama was hard to hate.
Now Trump is even better than Bush. Rude and ruthless, but also clueless on so many issues, self-contradicting, mind-bogglingly disingenuous he is an epitome of an American oligarch. To someone who grew up in the USSR, Trump is a twin brother of Mister Twister, ex-minister, a character from a Soviet childrens poem by Samuil Marshak, who satirised American capitalism in the 1930s. Millions of Russians still remember it by heart. Trump is a walking caricature of America, a gift to the Russian propaganda machine which the Kremlin couldnt even dream of.
The ideological proximity of Trump and Putin shouldnt fool anyone. Yes, they are both members of the global populist movement that has almost completely erased the 20th-century left-right division. They also have very similar constituencies.
OPINION: Under surveillance in Russia
In the past week, Ive driven 3,000 kilometres through the Midwest swing states, talking to Trump supporters in small towns and villages. The parallels with Russia are striking. Just like Putins, Trumps constituency comprised those who have lost in the process of globalisation and liberalisation, who find it hard to live in this new strange world and compete with those who are better fit for it.
By voting for Trump or Putin, they want to rein in time, make it move slower so they can catch up with those who they see as bigmouth upstarts getting money for nothing.
The term silent majority, which Trump supporters are so fond of using, evokes the memory of the aggressively obedient majority a 1990s term describing those Russians who didnt accept democratic changes and paved the way for the advent of Putin.
A Putin-Trump symbiosis
But the fact that the two politicians lead similar constituencies doesnt mean that they wont hate each other. Quite the opposite: They will enjoy mutual hatred. They will feed off it in a happy, political symbiosis.
Putin will love to hate Trump in the same way he loves to hate East European nationalists who might be outwardly anti-Russian, but really appear on the same side of the global political barricade as the Kremlin. Russian TV propaganda takes an utmost pleasure in circulating Russophobic statements by Ukrainian, Baltic and Polish nationalists. They help prove that Russia is surrounded by enemies who will strike as soon as it becomes weak and disunited.
But the Kremlin has a major problem with genuine liberals in these countries when they come to power. This is why in Ukraine the pro-Russian Party of Regions was funding the vehemently Russophobic Svoboda party, according to recently published fiscal documents.
A Ukraine engulfed in archaic nationalism and Russophobia will never become a successful alternative to Putins Russia, it would never be a better place for Russian-speakers to live than Russia itself. A successful and liberal Ukraine, on the other hand, presents an existential risk for Putins regime, which is why it decided to start a war there in 2014.
The other benefit of Trump and his likes in other countries, say Brexiteers in Britain, is that they create internal strife, which weakens the West and distracts everyones attention from what Russia is doing, while at the same time allows the Kremlin to present Russia as an island of stability to TV audiences at home. They also help to undermine Western supranational institutions, such as the EU and NATO, giving Russia free reign in its neighbourhood.
Finally, a billionaire who was extremely reluctant to disclose his tax returns is extremely unlikely to go after the Western assets of his fellow billionaires in the Kremlin, thus greatly reducing the risk of regime change in Russia.
For Putin and his entourage, Trump is not an extravagant and experimental choice. Its a conservative choice driven by the same kind of thinking that made Americans vote for Trump. It takes the world back into the good old Cold War times, when years of arms race and proxy wars were alternated with grandiose summits and nuclear treaties. It makes Russia feel great again.
Leonid Ragozin is a freelance journalist based in Moscow.
The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial policy.
In traditional Chinese medicine rhino horn was ground into a powder or shaved, added to boiling water and taken as a cure for a range of illnesses from arthritis to fever. Considering rhino horn is precisely the same material as your nails keratin you might just as well chew your own fingers.
In the past couple of years some of the respected colleges of traditional medicine in China have come out saying that there is no scientific evidence that rhino horn has any curative or restorative value. Slowly its use was dying out.
But a few years ago an urban myth spread around Vietnam. A never-identified VIP sometimes a general, sometimes a minister was supposedly at deaths door, his doctors having given up hope. Then he started taking rhino horn and made a miraculous recovery.
And even though no one has ever identified the star of this story, suddenly rhino horn became a fashionable product not just as a medicine but also a hangover cure for the newly moneyed fashionable set. It showed off their purchasing power and had the added edgy appeal of being illegal.
And so the slaughter of South Africas remaining rhino leapt from a few dozen in 2008 to several hundred by 2011 and around 1,200 over the past three years. Every night in the Kruger National Park, home to the worlds largest population of rhino, two or three animals are shot by poachers.
As the demand from China and Vietnam grew, so the price rose. A kilo of horn sells for between $30,000 and $60,000 on the black market as it passes from dealer to dealer and on to the consumer. Cut into bangles or bead bracelets the price per kilo is cheaper. Horn is carved into cups and highly ornate libation bowls. Most expensive of all are the statues carved out of whole front horns, which can weigh upwards of 6 kilos and cost more than $250,000.
None of that is new. Antique carvings and cups dating back to the 16th century regularly come up at auction and easily fetch prices upwards of $100,000. The auction house Christies sold one for almost $500,000. Horn, just like ivory, has long been prized as decorative proof of status and wealth. The difference is that even at the turn of the century there were tens of thousands of rhino across Africa and Asia.
READ MORE: Anger and outrage over widespread rhino horn poaching
Of course the closer the rhino comes to extinction, the more horn becomes a scarce resource with the inevitable hike in price. That in itself has created a new market in horn, to buy and keep, as an investment for the future.
It is no longer anything to do with any supposed curative powers. It is now just about hard cash. As well as the wealthy buying horn, analysts and law enforcement agencies say that horn is traded between criminals as payment for other illegal deals such as drugs and weapons. Rhino horn has moved from a conservation issue to a major commodity for organised global crime syndicates.
READ MORE: How conservationists saved one young rhinos life
On the legal side, the owners of private rhino farms in South Africa have amassed stocks worth millions of dollars from the horns of rhino that have died naturally but also from periodically cutting the horns down to a stump. The horns can slowly regrow.
John Hume, who owns the largest private herd of rhino, has an estimated stockpile of five tonnes of horn. He and other pro-trade farmers argue that they are protecting their animals from poachers. They also believe that creating a legal market in horn would put the criminal syndicates out of business.
Their hope is that in the future the ban on trading horn will be lifted and they can sell their stocks.
Turnbull said 1,200 refugees from Nauru will not be resettled in the US before president-elect Trump takes office.
Australias prime minister said on Monday that resettlement to the US of many of the 1,200 asylum seekers from prisons on Papua New Guinea and the Pacific island of Nauru would begin after president-elect Donald Trumps inauguration in January.
Whether Trump honours the deal Australia reached with the outgoing Obama administration, and announced earlier this month, will provide an early test of the new presidents anti-immigration stance.
Behind Australias tough border policies
Campaigning for the presidency, Trump started by advocating a blanket ban on Muslims entering the US, but later adjusted his stance to propose that the ban should apply to people from nations that had been compromised by terrorism.
Australias Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said on Sunday that the US had agreed to take a substantial number of the 1,800 refugees held on Manus Island and Nauru. Many of them are Muslims who have fled conflicts in Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Under Australias tough border security laws, asylum seekers intercepted trying to reach the country by boat are sent for processing at detention centres on Papua New Guineas Manus island and Nauru under conditions harshly criticised by rights groups as well as the UN.
Former employees from Nauru have also spoken to the media about widespread abuse at the camps, including violence against women and the sexual abuse of children.
The resettlement deal came after Turnbulls government agreed in September to accept people from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador as part of Australias annual intake of 18,750 asylum seekers, to support a resettlement plan for Central Americans drawn up by Washington.
Turnbull said on Monday the first refugees to be resettled in the US would not come before the January 20 inauguration of President-elect Trump.
The process will continue for some months. The United States wont be short-cutting their security or health checks, said Turnbull.
Potential Trump veto
Analysts said the timing could prove awkward for Turnbull.
It looks pretty clear that the resettlement deal was done as a quid pro quo after Australia agreed to resettle Central American refugees, Peter Chen, professor of political science at the University of Sydney, said.
But by holding off and starting the process in the expectation that Hillary Clinton would win the US presidency, it gives Trump the ability to reject the deal.
Over the weekend, Trump said his administration would deport up to three million immigrants in the country illegally who have criminal records. While campaigning, Trump said he would deport 11 million illegal immigrants.
Should Trump veto the deal with Australia, the detainees would be left with the choice of returning to their home countries or remaining in Nauru or Papua New Guinea.
A veto would force Turnbull to search for another country willing to take them while facing growing outrage both at home and internationally over the treatment of the refugees.
Turnbull said he remained confident that the new US administration would stand by the deal, stressing that it didnt require any increase in the USs annual intake of asylum seekers.
It is a ubiquitous item for tourists to carry when travelling out of South Africa. Plastic bags that contain long strips of dried meat or game known locally as biltong. You can buy it almost anywhere and many visitors bring it home as a souvenir.
Until now it was an innocent and delicious gift, but a new Al Jazeera investigation reveals that it is connected to a smuggling technique employed by wildlife traffickers. They use packets of biltong to sneak rhino horn out of the country.
It is just one of many smuggling techniques revealed by a new Al Jazeera Investigation into the illicit trade. The programme, The Poachers Pipeline, tracks the movement of rhino horn from the kill in Africa to the sale in Asia.
As part of the undercover investigation, a restaurant owner and middle man based in Johannesburg revealed the technique. The horn is cut into strips and placed in the middle of bags of biltong. Then, using a friendly butcher contact, the package is vacuum sealed and labelled as a commercially purchased bag of biltong. When smugglers leave the airport they can easily bypass customs officials. At the other end the rhino horn can be ground into powder and easily resold.
I think he is a princeling
Other traffickers use high-level contacts at airports in both Africa and Asia to circumvent the authorities. One trafficker featured in the film, who is based in Nelspruit, South Africa, claims that he uses a high-level contact at Beijing airport to smuggle in the horn.
You pay the customs declaration before you fly directly back to China. Get the luggage number and you send it to our Beijing contact. You dont even need to pick up your luggage, explains the trafficker in a conversation recorded on hidden camera.
Hes quite influential at the airport. I think he is a princeling, from a powerful family. Hes untouchable.
READ MORE: Anger and outrage over widespread rhino horn poaching
Rhino horn often has a terrible smell associated with it. In order to confirm that the horn is authentic traffickers prefer to have some of the rhino flesh still attached when they make a buy. As a result traffickers try to mask the smell.
What they do is try and put it into boiling water to get the old meat off, says Joe Van Der Walt, the chief of operations for Focus Africa, a risk-management firm that focuses on wildlife trafficking. They then will make a garlic paste and slather it over the horn, wrap it in tin foil and try to throw the dogs off the scent.
Diplomatic immunity
Another way in which rhino horn can be smuggled out of the country is through the diplomatic pouch. When delegations are travelling on official business they can use the cover of diplomacy to hide the horn.
Government officials in Africa are unlikely to allow police officials to search the bags of Chinese or Vietnamese diplomats, explains Julian Rademeyer, an analyst with the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime.
READ MORE: How conservationists saved one young rhinos life
Rademeyer has documented dozens of examples in which embassies and government officials have been connected to rhino horn smuggling. In many instances diplomats bring home rhino horn as a status symbol.
In one instance a car that was previously owned by the Vietnamese embassy in South Africa, had a special compartment installed in the back to hide rhino horn.
Its essentially the perfect crime, explains Rademeyer. You have a diplomatic bag that cant be opened, it cant be searched. No prosecution at all.
President Xi Jinping highlights importance of ties with the US in a phone call with incoming leader Donald Trump.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has told US president-elect Donald Trump that cooperation was the only choice for relations between the worlds two largest economies, with Trump saying the two had established a clear sense of mutual respect.
Intense speculation has swirled over the impact of Trumps win on China-US issues from global trade and climate change to the security balance in the Asia-Pacific.
Trump lambasted China throughout the US election campaign, drumming up headlines with his pledges of slapping 45 percent tariffs on imported Chinese goods, and labelling the country a currency manipulator.
His election has injected uncertainty into relations at a time when Beijing hopes for stability as it faces daunting reform challenges at home, slowing growth, and a leadership reshuffle of its own that will put a new party elite around Xi in late 2017.
In their first interaction since the US election, Chinese state media said Xi told Trump in a telephone call on Monday that as the worlds largest developing and developed economies, there were many areas where China and the United States could cooperate.
READ MORE: Donald Trump, climate finance, and catastrophe
The facts prove that cooperation is the only correct choice for China and the United States, China Central Television (CCTV) cited Xi as saying.
Xis remarks were a reiteration of phrasing typically used by Beijing to describe bilateral relations.
The two sides must promote the two countries economic development and global economic growth and push for better development going forward in China-US relations, Xi said.
During the call, the leaders established a clear sense of mutual respect for one another, and president-elect Trump stated that he believes the two leaders will have one of the strongest relationships for both countries moving forward, a statement from Trumps presidential transition office said.
The two agreed to maintain close communications and meet soon, CCTV said. Xi had congratulated Trump in a message delivered shortly after Trumps surprise election victory last week.
China has signalled it will promote plans for regional trade integration, vowing to seek support for a Beijing-backed Asia-Pacific free trade area at a summit in Peru later this month, after Trumps win dashed hopes for the US-led Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).
Trumps criticism of US allies, including Japan, for free-riding on US security guarantees, has deepened anxiety among Washingtons friends about its commitment to post-war security arrangements in the face of a rising China and volatile North Korea.
Suicide attacks kill at least 14 south and west of Baghdad, as Iraqi forces push to retake Mosul makes slow progress.
ISIL fighters in Iraq launched a series of suicide bomb attacks in the city of Fallujah and an oasis town south of Baghdad on Monday, killing at least 14 people and wounding dozens.
The attacks came as Iraqi forces and their allies continue fighting ISIL in the northern city of Mosul, the armed groups last major population centre in the country.
The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group has carried out several attacks in other areas of Iraq since the operation to retake Mosul was launched a month ago, in an apparent bid to draw attention and possibly troops away from the battle for the city.
In Fallujah, at least eight people were killed and nearly 20 wounded in two separate car bomb blasts that hit police checkpoints, police sources told Reuters news agency.
The attacks were the first since Iraqi forces took back the city from ISIL, also known as ISIS, in June.
These two explosions are the first in Fallujah since its liberation, said Raja Barakat, a member of the provincial council security committee in Anbar province, where Fallujah is located.
READ MORE: Suicide attack hits south of Baghdad
Earlier on Monday, a group of ISIL attackers armed with suicide vests and light weapons killed at least eight people in Ain al-Tamer, 50km from a Shia shrine in the city of Karbala, before blowing themselves, according to local officials.
The attack involved six suicide bombers who were detected by security forces before a major gathering in the area that is expected to draw tens of thousands of pilgrims.
Masum al-Tamimi, a member of the Karbala provincial council, said the attackers tried to infiltrate the town in the early hours before withdrawing to the al-Jihad area after clashing with security forces, where they detonated their explosives. He put the death toll at eight.
The interior ministry issued a statement on the attack, saying five of the bombers were killed by security forces while the sixth detonated explosives inside a house. The ministry put the death toll at six.
ISILs online statement put the number of the suicide bombers at five, saying they clashed for hours with the security forces and set off their explosives consecutively when they ran out of ammunition.
Al Jazeeras Mohammed Jamjoom, reporting from Erbil, said the attackers were dressed as pilgrims trying to pass the checkpoint to enter the village.
The policemen were suspicious of these bombers when they tried to enter the checkpoint. They detonated their explosive once the policemen opened fire at them, Jamjoom said.
The attack just underlines how volatile Iraq is, and not just Mosul, but other parts of the country as well where ISIL is regularly carrying out attacks.
READ MORE: How will Mosul rise from the ashes of battle?
Attacks in southern Iraq are rare, especially compared with the frequent bombings that hit Baghdad.
But Ain al-Tamer, which is 50km from the Shia holy city of Karbala, is on the edge of Anbar province, which has long been a haven for al-Qaeda in Iraq and now ISIL.
The group overran large areas north and west of Baghdad in 2014, but Iraqi forces backed by US-led air strikes have since regained much of the territory.
Iraqi government forces, supported by Kurdish Peshmerga fighters and Shia militias, as well as air and ground support from the US-led coalition, are now fighting to retake Mosul.
But ISIL fighters are putting up stiff resistance, while the group has been able to retain its ability to strike inside government-held territory with bombings and other attacks as it loses ground.
The offensive on Mosul entered its fifth week on Monday, with Iraqi government forces still trying to consolidate gains made in the eastern edge of the city that they breached end of October.
They are yet to cross into the northern and southern limits of Mosul, where more than a million people are thought to be still living.
Separately, a mixed Kurdish and Yazidi armed force known as the Sinjar Resistance Unit said on Monday it had dislodged ISIL fighters from five Yazidi villages west of Mosul in an advance that began on Saturday.
Threat of ISIL will live on even after they are pushed out of key territory, Iraqi Kurdish intelligence chief warns.
Sulaimania The US-led war against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) cannot be won on the battlefield alone, warns Iraqi Kurdish intelligence chief Lahur Talabany.
The real danger, he says, is the lack of a strategy to counter the groups ideology.
We can defeat them in Mosul, and we can defeat them in Raqqa, but we wont win this war with military means alone an ideology is much harder to control, says Talabany, head of the Iraqi Kurdish regions intelligence and counterterrorism agency, Zanyari, the Iraqi Kurdish equivalent to the CIA.
As we saw with Jund al-Islam, which morphed into Ansar al-Islam, as with the case of al-Qaeda, we can try and fight these guys militarily, but they always come back stronger in another form, Talabany, who has 15 years of experience in battling armed groups in Iraq, tells Al Jazeera.
He predicts that both Iraq and Syria will face a spate of asymmetric attacks even after ISIL, also known as ISIS, have been eliminated as an organised group as we saw in Kirkuk, when they sent 100 suicide bombers into the city, he says, referring to the coordinated ISIL attacks in and around the oil-rich city of Kirkuk on October 21.
We will see these kinds of attacks not only in Iraq and the Kurdistan region, but we should expect similar attacks in Europe. You are hurting them, so they will try to get back at you any way they can.
READ MORE: Money and patience grow short in Iraqi Kurdistan
Talabany, the nephew of former Iraqi President Jalal Talabani, says there is currently no effective effort in place to fight ISILs ideology, citing significant setbacks in towns where the group has already been pushed out.
Is the international community willing to help to give back to these communities? by Lahur Talabany, head of Zanyari
Look at most of the towns where major battles have taken place. Most of these towns are ruined and Mosul will be messed up by the time its retaken. That means no school, no medical care, and unemployment. All these are key factors and breeding grounds for extremist groups.
Talabany, who is also head of the regions Counter Terrorism Group, is an advocate for more aggressive anti-radicalisation programmes to counter ISILs sophisticated online recruitment strategy, which capitalises on discontent and harsh realities on the ground, whether in the Middle East or Europe.
We keep telling everyone this needs to be done; otherwise it is a mistake. What Im worried about is that the Iraqi government is having internal issues. Do they have the money to put back into these communities? Is the international community willing to help to give back to these communities?
READ MORE: KRG Mosul victory depends on ISIL fighters morale
Deradicalisation campaigns are still an experimental science, adds Talabany, but he believes it must be a priority for Iraqs Kurdish region.
While an estimated 150,000 Peshmerga are fighting the ground battle in Iraq, there have also been reports of 400 to 500 young Kurds joining ISIL, egged on by rogue preachers or local Islamist parties.
To be honest, we have had issues with extremism in the past, so my expectation was much higher, says Talabany. I expected thousands of Kurds joining the ranks of ISIL, but I was wrong. A few hundred Kurds is nothing compared with the number of European men who have come here to join ISIL. I believe ISILs brutality affected Kurds perception of the group.
Follow Tanya Goudsouzian on Twitter: @tgoudsouzian
Socialist leader wins presidential vote after campaigning to pursue closer ties with Russia rather than the EU.
A pro-Russian politician has won Moldovas presidential election, according to final results released on Monday.
In the full count, Igor Dodon won 52.2 percent of Sundays vote. His opponent in the race, Maia Sandu, who ran on an anti-corruption ticket, had 47.8 percent.
Speaking after his win, Dodon, the leader of the Socialist Party, said he would push for early parliamentary elections in 2017 to force out a government that favours closer ties with the European Union.
A very serious combat is ahead but we are ready for this combat, he told Russian state TV, referring to an election he wants to bring forward by a year.
Voters had united and voted for friendship with Russia, for neutrality, said Dodon, who campaigned for the scrapping of a trade deal the former Soviet state signed with Brussels in 2014.
Russian President Vladimir Putin invited Dodon to visit Moscow and said he looked forward to developing bilateral relations.
But in her first comments after the final results, Sandu said the elections were neither free nor fair. and accused opponents of using dirty methods, including the media and administrative resources, against her.
She called for the resignation of authorities responsible for organising the elections.
International election observers said on Monday fundamental freedoms [were] respected, but polarised media coverage, harsh rhetoric detracted from the process.
On Monday, up to 3,000 mostly young Moldovans marched to the offices of the Central Election Committee in Chisinau, shouting Down with the Mafia!
Anger had also flared on Sunday after Moldovans voting in Britain, Ireland, France, Italy and elsewhere lined up for hours and ballot papers ran out. Sandu said the elections had been badly organised.
Dodons victory was celebrated with fireworks early on Monday in the semi-autonomous Gagauzia region, home of many ethnic Russians.
Dodon announced himself the victor at midnight on Sunday and called for calm, vowing to be a president for all Moldovans, regardless of their political views. He said he seeks good relations with the nations neighbours, Romania and Ukraine.
READ MORE: Moldova and the Russia-EU tug-of-war
Moldovas president represents the country abroad, sets foreign policy and appoints judges, but needs parliamentary approval for major decisions.
However, the office is expected to gain authority because Dodon is the first president in 20 years to be directly elected rather than being chosen by parliament.
The 41-year-old Dodon, who painted himself as a traditional Moldovan with conservative values, tapped into popular anger over the approximately $1bn that went missing from Moldovan banks before the 2014 parliamentary elections.
Dodon says he will move to rescind a law which obliges taxpayers to reimburse the $1bn, but parliament would have to agree. He has not called for a thorough investigation to find those responsible for the heist.
He wants to restore ties with Russia, which placed a trade embargo on Moldovan wine, fruit and vegetables in 2014 after Moldova signed an association agreement with the EU.
However, the president cannot cancel the association agreement, which was ratified by parliament.
On Sunday, Prime Minister Pavel Filip said the government and new president would need to work together, but added that Moldovas path towards greater EU integration cannot be reversed.
Six suicide bombers armed with light weapons clash with security forces before donating explosives.
A group of attackers armed with suicide vests and light weapons killed at least six people southwest of Baghdad on Monday, local officials said.
The attack claimed by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group in Ain al-Tamer, involved six suicide bombers, some of whom may have been killed by security forces before they could blow themselves up.
Masum al-Tamimi, a member of the Karbala provincial council, said that the six attackers tried to infiltrate Ain al-Tamer village early in the morning.
But they clashed with security forces before withdrawing to the Al-Jihad area and detonating explosives there, Tamimi said, putting the death toll at eight.
The interior ministry issued a statement on the attack, saying that five of the bombers were killed by security forces while the sixth detonated explosives inside a house. The ministry put the death toll at six.
Al Jazeeras Mohammed Jamjoom, reporting from Erbil, said the attackers were dressed as pilgrims trying to pass the checkpoint to enter the village.
The policemen were suspicious of these bombers when they tried to enter the checkpoint. They detonated their explosive once the policemen opened fire at them, our correspondent said.
The attack just underlines how volatile Iraq is and not just Mosul but other parts of the country as well where ISIL is regularly carrying out attacks.
READ MORE: How will Mosul rise from the ashes of battle?
Attacks in southern Iraq are rare, especially compared with the frequent bombings that hit Baghdad.
But Ain al-Tamer, which is 50km from the Shia holy city of Karbala, is on the edge of Anbar province, which has long been a haven for al-Qaeda in Iraq and now ISIL.
A similar attack involving fighters armed with explosives, rifles and grenades hit Ain al-Tamer in late August, killing 18 people and wounding at least 26.
ISIL issued a statement claiming responsibility for that attack.
The group overran large areas north and west of Baghdad in 2014, but Iraqi forces backed by US-led air strikes have since regained much of the territory.
Iraqi forces are now fighting to retake the northern city of Mosul, the last major population centre held by ISIL in the country.
But ISIL-linked fighters have still been able to strike inside government-held territory with bombings and other attacks even as they lose ground.
Israels High Court rejected a government bid to delay the evacuation of an unsanctioned Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank beyond a December deadline, in a case that has drawn international concern.
Amona settlement is under a court order to be evacuated by December 25 since it was built on private Palestinian land. But right-wing Israeli politicians have called for about 40 families living on the outpost to be allowed to remain.
The evacuation must occur before December 25, the court said in its ruling on Monday. The court rejects the delay requested by the state.
Whether the government moves ahead with the demolition of the outpost has been seen as a test case of whether it will heed international calls to halt continued settlement growth in the West Bank.
Israels government, which had sought a nine-month delay to Amonas demolition, is seen as the most right-wing in the countrys history, and key members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus coalition advocate settlement building, while openly opposing the idea of a Palestinian state.
The High Court ruled in 2014 that Amona, northeast of Ramallah in the central West Bank, must be evacuated.
READ MORE: Israeli committee approves bill legalising outposts
There are concerns over how any evacuation will play out. In 2006, the demolition of nine permanent houses in the outpost led to clashes between settlers and Israeli security forces.
With the Amona deadline in mind, a committee of Israeli ministers on Sunday approved a bill that would allow for the legalisation of homes there and elsewhere in the West Bank.
The legislation would allow for the settlement homes built on private Palestinian land in communities that meet certain criteria.
The Palestinian landowners would be offered compensation in return for the land being seized.
The legislation is expected to apply to between 2,000 and 3,000 settler homes in the West Bank, which Israel seized in the 1967 Middle East war, and which the Palestinians want for a future state of their own.
The draft bill could embolden armed Jewish settlers in the occupied West Bank to continue taking over Palestinian homes.
Israel has approved a controversial draft bill aimed at authorising Jewish settlements that were built on private Palestinian land in the occupied West Bank without Israeli government permission.
The bill must now pass through three readings in parliament and also be ratified by the Supreme Court before it can become law.
Sundays vote was rushed through the ministerial committee for legislation in an attempt to prevent the evacuation of the outpost of Amona in the Israeli-occupied West Bank by the end of the year.
The Supreme Court had ordered the evacuation of settlers from Amona and the demolition of their homes by December 25.
Amona, near the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah, is home to about 40 Jewish families and was built on land privately owned by Palestinians who had petitioned the court for the outpost to be removed.
The international community considers all Israeli settlements in Israeli-occupied East Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank to be illegal, whether they are authorised by the government or not.
The Israeli government already has at its disposal several tools with which to evict Palestinian residents from their homes, in order to use that land to develop Jewish-only neighbourhoods and settlements.
These include Israeli court orders, as well as military force. But so far, the Israeli courts have maintained that outposts built by settlers without governmental approval are illegal.
The building of these outposts usually entails armed Jewish settlers occupying Palestinian homes and farms in the occupied West Bank. Several rights groups have accused the Israeli military of ignoring, or in many cases aiding the armed settlers.
The bill, approved unanimously on Sunday, stipulates that the government could order the confiscation of privately owned Palestinian land in exchange for compensation.
It was at the centre of a row between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who had sought to delay the vote, and hardliners in his ruling right-wing Likud party.
Education Minister Naftali Bennett, who heads the religious nationalist Jewish Home party, succeeded in rallying support for the vote leading to Sundays endorsement of the bill.
Netanyahu had insisted on delaying any political move and told his cabinet to allow the new administration of US president-elect Donald Trump to take over in Washington before setting future policy.
Netanyahu last week expressed confidence that he and Trump could work together to bring US-Israeli relations to new heights.
OPINION: Trump and Israel
The anti-settlement Peace Now movement denounced the vote.
It is a shame: the government is backing a law that will allow the confiscation of privately owned Palestinian land in order to build settlements, said Hagit Ofran, one of the watchdogs leaders.
According to Ofran, about 2,000 homes have been built on land owned by Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, and therefore the draft bill could retroactively legalise these dwellings.
Israels Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit warned the ministers that he would be unable to defend the bill before the Supreme Court.
A statement by Mandelblit said the bill undermines private property and is contrary to Israeli law and international law, public radio reported.
Mandelblit also warned that if the bill were to become law, it could spur many people to lodge official complaints with the International Criminal Court.
Nabil Abu Rdainah, a spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, said that enacting such a law would force the Palestinians to appeal to international bodies.
At least nine people killed in clashes between members of a Shia group and the police on the outskirts of Kano city.
At least nine people have been killed and several wounded during clashes between Nigerian police and Shia Muslims at a religious procession in the northern state of Kano, according to witnesses and authorities.
The violence broke out on Monday during a march of thousands of members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) from Kano city to Zaria in neighbouring Kaduna state where they had been banned for the Ashura religious day of mourning.
It was the latest in a series of incidents involving the group. A judicial inquiry in August reported that 347 IMN members were killed and buried in mass graves after clashes with the army in December 2015.
READ MORE: Nigerian army killed 347 Shia followers of Zakzaky
Kano state Police Commissioner Rabiu Yusuf told reporters that eight IMN members and a police officer were killed in Mondays clashes. Several people, including four police officers, were also wounded, Yusuf said.
According to the police, participants in the procession were armed with bows and arrows. Officers opened fire on the IMN crowd after one of them was hurt, police said.
At first we used tear gas on them. They attacked one of our personnel, who sustained a fatal injury, he told Reuters news agency.
Yusuf said IMN members used the dead policemans weapon to fire at officers, who had no option but to use live ammunition in response.
READ MORE: Sheikh el-Zakzaky: Through the eyes of his followers
But a spokesman for the IMN, whose 1980s founders were inspired by the Islamic Revolution in Iran, said police had blocked the path of its members before unleashing tear gas and live ammunition on them. He also said the IMN was a peaceful group.
Throughout the nearly four decades of the existence of the IMN, it has never stockpiled, carried or used weapons, spokesman Ibrahim Musa told Reuters news agency.
The police arrived and started firing tear gas canisters on the procession of Shia to disperse them, grocer Ilyasu Ammani told AFP news agency.
I saw 15 bodies sprawled on the ground before the police evacuated them, said Ammani of the violence in Kwanar Dawaki, an area on the outskirts of Kano.
Witness Kabiru Mudassir said he saw more than 10 bodies being taken away in a police van.
Mudassir, who was on his way to work when he was caught in the violence, said more policemen are being deployed and a military jet keeps circling the area.
The IMN has been in conflict with the Nigerian government over the years.
In October, Kano police banned IMN from conducting street processions ahead of the annual Ashura rites.
Kaduna state governor Nasir El-Rufai banned the group as an unlawful society, saying it was a security threat and calling for security forces to vigorously arrest its members.
In December last year, the group fought against soldiers for two days in the city of Zaria, resulting in the death of 347 of its members..
Ibrahim el-Zakzaky, the groups leader, was also left partially paralysed and blind in one eye.
Pakistan accuses India of firing across disputed Kashmir border, as tension between the neighbours escalate
The Pakistani military has accused India of killing seven soldiers in cross-border fire in the disputed Kashmir border, where tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours have surged in recent months.
There was no immediate response to the accusation from Indian officials.
The Pakistani military media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), said in a statement on Monday that the soldiers were killed in the Bhimber sector on the Line of Control or LOC, which is the de facto border separating the two South Asian rivals.
Seven [Pakistani] soldiers embraced shahadat [martyrdom] at the Line of Control in Bhimber sector in a crossfire LOC violation by Indian troops late last night, the military said in a statement.
Pakistani troops, while responding to Indian unprovoked firing, targeted Indian posts effectively.
Al Jazeeras Kamal Hyder, reporting from Islamabad, said the incident was quite serious as Pakistans military said it had responded to the firing.
Pakistans military has said that they have come under unprovoked firing from the Indian side and that they have responded to the Indian fire, our correspondent said.
However, it is not yet clear whether there are casualties on the other [Indian] side as well.
Tensions across the long-disputed de facto Himalayan border reached dangerous levels in September, when India blamed Pakistani fighters for a raid on an army base that killed 19 soldiers.
India said it had responded by carrying out surgical strikes across the border, although Islamabad denied the strikes happened.
There have since been repeated outbreaks of cross-border fire, with both sides reporting deaths and injuries, including of many civilians.
Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since the end of British colonial rule in 1947. Both claim the Himalayan territory in full and have fought two wars over the mountainous region.
Proposed legislation allowing confiscation of private land and silencing of mosque noise could lead to catastrophe.
Palestinian leaders on Monday denounced controversial Israeli draft bills one authorising illegal settlements, the other silencing calls to prayer threatening to take the issues to the United Nations Security Council.
A committee of Israeli ministers adopted the two bills on Sunday, though they must still be approved by parliament.
Israeli committee approves bill legalising outposts
The recent Israeli measures are going to lead to catastrophe in the region, said Nabil Abu Rudeina, spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
The Palestinian leadership will turn to the UN Security Council and all other international organisations to stop those Israeli measures.
On the bill allowing the government to order the confiscation of privately owned Palestinian land, Foreign Minister Riad al-Malki accused Israel of seeking to impose facts on the ground and create new realities by legalising the illegal actions that it commits.
The international community considers all Israeli settlements in Israeli-occupied East Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank to be illegal whether they are authorised by the government or not.
Palestinians also sharply criticised a separate bill that would limit the volume of calls to prayer at mosques in Israel and Jerusalem.
Government watchdogs have called that proposal a threat to freedom of religion and a provocation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had received complaints from all parts of Israeli society, from all religions about the excessive noise coming from the loudspeakers that transmit the prayers.
Benjamin Netanyahu backs bill to stop mosque noise
While the draft bill applies to all houses of worship, it is seen as specifically targeting mosques.
There happens to be one religion that does, if you will, disturb the peace a little bit more than some of the others. But this bill is written for everyone, Jeremy Saltan, of the Jewish Home Party, told Al Jazeera.
Sheikh Omar Kiswani, director of al-Aqsa Mosque, said the move against the call to prayer was unacceptable.
The occupying power should not intervene in our religious culture, he told Al Jazeera.
The bill violates international and religious laws. The occupation is not just provoking Muslims in Jerusalem but around the world.
Controversial autopsies on former president Lech Kaczynski, among 80 others, aims to determine cause of 2010 crash.
The bodies of former Polish president Lech Kaczynski and his wife will be removed from their tomb in Krakow, the first of more than 80 exhumations planned on prominent Poles killed in a plane crash in Russia in 2010.
Exhumations scheduled for after dark on Monday are part of a new investigation into the crash ordered by Polands conservative ruling party, Law and Justice, which is led by Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the late presidents twin brother.
Post mortem examinations will be carried out to determine the cause of the death and of the crash, identify all the remains, and check for explosives since some of Kaczynskis followers believe a planned blast downed the aircraft, killing all 96 aboard.
READ MORE Obituary: Lech Kaczynski
Kaczynski has cast doubt on earlier investigations carried out by both Poland and Russia which concluded that the crash was an accident caused primarily by bad weather and pilot error.
There will not be a free Poland, a truly free Poland, without the truth, without a proper honouring of those who died, without a closure of this case, which has cast such a long shadow on our national and social life, Kaczynski said last week.
Cruel act
The exhumations are proving controversial with most Poles dismissive of conspiracy theories, and some relatives aghast at the thought of their loved ones being exhumed.
We stand alone and helpless in the face of this ruthless and cruel act, the relatives of 17 victims wrote in an open letter.
The forceful exhumations constitute a violation of a taboo existing in our culture that calls for the respect of the bodies of the dead, said Malgorzata Rybicka, the widow of Arkadiusz Rybicki, a politician with Civic Platform, in an interview with the Tygodnik Powszechny magazine.
It also shows the light-hearted approach to the feelings of the families.
WATCH People and Power: Poles Apart
However, Malgorzata Wassermann daughter of Zbigniew Wassermann, a politician who died called the exhumations a procedural must given that Poland carried out no autopsies, as the stunned nation watched the dozens of coffins, draped in white-and-red national flags, arrive from Russia in 2010.
The Russian autopsy report on her father described him as having the healthy liver of a young man, when in fact the 60-year-old had only part of his liver left after an operation.
The tragedy occurred on April 10, 2010, when the presidential delegation was travelling to honour 22,000 Polish officers who were murdered by the Soviet secret police at the start of World War II in the Katyn forest and elsewhere.
The delegation included government members, politicians, military commanders and the relatives of officers killed in the wartime massacre.
The symbolism of the mission only added to the national grief and the suspicions.
Former air force commander who has called for an end to EU sanctions against Russia wins election by wide margin.
Pro-Russia, anti-migration candidate Rumen Radev won the Bulgarian presidential election, partial official results showed on Monday.
Former air force commander Radev won 59.4 percent of the vote, compared with 36.2 percent for the candidate of the ruling centre-right GERB party, Tsetska Tsacheva, with 99.3 percent of polling stations counted.
Bulgaria faces an uncertain future after centre-right Prime Minister Boyko Borisov quit his post following the crushing defeat of his presidential nominee at the hands of Radev.
The results clearly show that the ruling coalition no longer holds the majority, the premier, who was re-elected in 2014 for a second time, said on Sunday evening.
I apologise to those who supported us. I thought I was doing the right thing.
Radev, a former fighter jet pilot and novice to politics, has tapped into public anger with political elites and fears about immigration, and vowed not to make the Balkan country a migrant ghetto.
Despite promised reforms, corruption and poverty remain rife in the European Unions poorest member state, while public anger has grown over thousands of migrants currently stranded in Bulgaria.
Speaking on Sunday evening, Radev said that he hoped for good dialogue with both the United States and Russia, and expressed hopes that with a new president in Washington, there will be a drop in confrontation between the West and Moscow.
READ MORE: Bulgaria Prime Minister Boiko Borisov resigns
In his election campaign [Donald Trump], already elected, said clearly that he will work for a better dialogue with Russia. That gives us hope, a big hope, for a peaceful solution to the conflicts both in Syria and in Ukraine and for a decrease of the confrontation, Radev said.
The country of 7.2 million people already has warmer ties with Russia than most of its EU peers. Radev has made it clear he believes Bulgaria, a NATO member, should focus more on its economic and political ties with Moscow, which has been under EU sanctions since it annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.
Under Bulgarias constitution, the presidents job is mostly ceremonial, but whoever holds the post can influence policy, veto legislation and sign international treaties.
Radev is due to take office on January 22 for a five-year term. His first job will probably be to call early elections in spring next year, after Borisov said on Sunday that he would refuse to form an interim government.
Security chief David Mahlobo issues statement refuting Al Jazeera report on his alleged ties to wildlife trafficker.
South Africas Minister of State Security David Mahlobo has denied accusations of links to a rhino trafficker that were alleged in Al Jazeeras The Poachers Pipeline investigation.
In a statement posted on the ministrys website, Mahlobo noted with grave concern and disappointment the unfounded and slanderous allegations made against him.
Al Jazeeras Investigative Unit said it uncovered evidence of high-level political connections to rhino poaching in Africa and broadcast the investigation on Sunday.
The investigation raises serious questions about the involvement of Mahlobo, as well as members of a Chinese presidential delegation in the illegal rhino horn trade.
Mahlobo refuted Al Jazeeras investigation with all the contempt that they deserve and said that he reserves his rights in respect of those making such false claims.
It is extremely reckless and mischievous for an internationally renowned broadcaster like Al Jazeera to be broadcasting such misleading content despite our response, said Mahlobo.
Mahlobo responds to poacher mate allegations
The security chief also stressed that South African officials have launched a new investigation on alleged rhino poaching activities in the country.
Mahlobo further stated that he has been at the forefront in fighting against environmental crimes since he was appointed security minister in 2014.
On Monday night, the moon will be 30,000km closer to the Earth, offering an impressive spectacle to skygazers.
On Monday, the full Moon will be the biggest and brightest since 1948 as it reaches its closest point to Earth to form what is known as a supermoon.
The rare proximity of spectacular supermoon to Earth means it will appear 30 percent brighter and 14 percent bigger as it reaches just 356,509km from Earth, according to NASA.
It will become its fullest at the same time as it makes its closest pass to Earth, causing it to appear unusually large, according to astronomers.
Since the Moons orbit around Earth is elliptical, its distance to the planet varies between lunar cycles.
The unusually big and bright Moon will appear at its most impressive just as night falls over Asia, but astronomy enthusiasts will be able to see Earths satellite loom large anywhere in the world shortly after sunset, weather permitting.
Stargazers gear up
From India to Australia, skygazers and photographers were seeking the best viewing spots in the region where the phenomenon will be visible first, hoping that cloudy skies and the perennial pollution that blights many Asian cities will not spoil the fun.
Thousands of people were expected to head to Sydneys Bronte Beach to witness the event after author Gavin McCormack created a Facebook page to let friends know of his plans.
Bring a flask of tea bring a picnic, bring the kids and bring your binoculars because this is going to be fantastic, he wrote.
Delhi residents were hoping toxic smog shrouding the worlds most polluted capital in recent weeks would abate to allow spectacular views as the supersized Moon rises over the Red Fort, the former Mughal emperors residence.
Picnics were being organised in downtown Hong Kong for residents to watch the supermoon rise over the financial hubs famous skyline, while hikers were heading to the greener, more distant corners of the Chinese city to enjoy views with less light pollution.
The landmark Taipei 101 skyscraper in Taiwan, one of the worlds tallest buildings, was set to welcome skygazers, with astronomers predicting it would be one of the biggest Moons seen from the island in nearly 100 years.
The supermoon will also mean a stronger high tide, something that gets surfers giddy with excitement, not only at the prospect of riding bigger waves, but doing so at night.
Tides were predicted to be higher than usual on the popular Indonesian holiday island of Bali, a favourite with surfers.
Supermoon fortune
In Thailand, astrologers were variously predicting the supermoon would bring disaster or great fortune.
Soraja Nuan-yoo, renowned for predicting the 2004 tsunami that killed many in Thailand and other countries round the Indian Ocean, warned that when the Moon gets close to the Earth, natural disasters happen.
Astronomers say it can be hard to notice that the Moon appears brighter than usual. Once it is high in the sky, it would be hard to tell the Moon is larger but on the horizon, it could appear quite spectacular.
The last time a full Moon was this close to Earth was in 1948, while in 1912 it was even larger, coming 134 kilometres closer to Earth.
With a new president, the US needs a bold Iraq initiative to move beyond the wreckage left by previous administrations.
As a new US leader makes his way to the White House, the question on most minds in Iraq is: How will the next US administration deal with the huge challenges left behind by President Barack Obama in the war- battered country?
This is especially true in light of Iraqs dire need for American assistance in its military campaign to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS), and the president-elects vague vision on Iraq during the run-up to the Oval Office.
In that sense, much will depend on whether Donald Trump, whose presidential campaign was pegged on upending decades-old Washington policies, will initiate drastic changes in the US strategy in Iraq, largely shaped by Obama and his predecessor George W Bush.
READ MORE: The Middle East that Obama left behind
During the presidential race, Trump struggled to distance himself from the 2003 war in Iraq launched by Bush (though evidence abounds that he had supported the war). He has also questioned the outcome of the invasion while suggesting he could have done better had he been US president.
Trumps top priority in Iraq should be working to ensure that Iraq will not fall apart after the battle of Mosul, increasingly seen as a turning point.
The only relevant pledge the New York tycoon-turned-politician made during his largely noisy and politically sour campaign was to step up the fight against ISIL in Iraq and Syria, though he failed to articulate a clear strategy if he wins.
Yet, among all other pressing foreign policy issues, which Trumps should confront when he takes office in January, is Iraq where there are already some 6,000 US forces on the ground engaged in a war that many believe its outcome may be a make or break for the country.
Rhetoric and inconsistency of the campaign aside, there is no question that the US new commander-in-chief will face the daunting task of tackling Iraq, which is expected to remain a pillar of Washingtons Middle East strategy and one with significant real-world geopolitical importance.
But while Iraq remains a myriad challenge, the question is how the Trump administration will be realistically engaged there in a way that helps fix Iraqs troubles that are largely the creation of the US invasion and the consequent policies of the two former administrations.
One may fill a book with the catastrophes both the Bush and the Obama administrations brought upon Iraq. If the stupidty of the invasion and regime change by a foreign power is oblivious, the failure to rebuild a post-Saddam Husseins inclusive, fair and stable political system, undisputedly, ranks as Americas top sin in Iraq.
How would Trump approach Iraqs problems and how much his administration will be involved is not clear, but here is what he must do to deal with the challenges inherited from Obama whose strategy in Iraq was like that of his predecessor: Using military power and avoid all attempts at national reconciliation and nation-building.
The biggest question is what is going to happen to Iraq after retaking Mosul and ISILs threat is eradicated. While driving ISIL from the city appears to be all but assured, the biggest threat to Iraq remains the ethnosectarian split, which has shaken the country to the core.
Trumps top priority in Iraq should be working to ensure that Iraq will not fall apart after the battle of Mosul, increasingly seen as a turning point in view of the conflicting agendas and interests of national and regional stakeholders who have been active in reshaping the geopolitical environment there.
Much of that will depend on whether the Trump administration will be able to work out a constructive policy in Syria and forge a coherent strategy to deal with major regional actors who vie for influence in post-Mosul Iraq, such as Iran, Saudi Arabia and Turkey and also check Kurdish aspirations of independence.
Trumps other main priority in Iraq must be dealing with the key issue of clearing the mess of a visibly failed state, left over from eight years of US occupation and deep communal divisions that have produced a sectarian-based and dysfunctional governing system.
While the Bush and Obama administrations have ignored nation building in Iraq, which is responsible for much of the countrys disasters, the new administration should capitalise on the liberation of Mosul and the ensuing stabilisation and rebuilding efforts to push for a national settlement in Iraq.
In order to launch a successful state-and nation-building process, Iraqs communities, political groups and civil society should come up with a historic compromise, or a grand bargain. The new deal should create a cross-national bloc that would agree on a new holistic approach not only to sharing power and wealth, but also to the larger objective of living together in a united, free, democratic, inclusive, and prosperous country.
In recent weeks, the Iraqi National Alliance, the ruling Shia bloc, has endorsed the proposal and presented its own draft for a national settlement for debate. The document which the alliance said it will present for national discussions after the liberation of Mosul has been cautiously welcomed by Sunni groups pending negotiations of its details.
The United Nations mission in Iraq (UNAMI), mandated to help in national reconciliation, has supported the idea of a historic compromise to promote an inclusive reconciliation process that upholds respect for Iraqs unity, sovereignty and constitutional order.
But much of the success of the proposal that should initiate a transition of political rebuilding and reconstruction will depend on support from Washington which had conditioned its help in the war against ISIL to Baghdads fostering reconciliation as complementary to the military effort to finish off the group.
Iraqs invasion and its disastrous aftermath had affected the thinking of the Republican President Bush to the extent that he dumped the occupation on his Democratic successor Obama who himself missed all opportunities to correct the terrible mistakes of his predecessor.
With the humiliating defeat of the powerful Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton in the election, the danger of course is that Obama will be leaving the unfinished war against ISIL and the quagmire in Iraq to Trump to wrestle with.
History has already made its judgment on Bush and Obama, both seasoned politicians elected with two core mandates, who will be remembered for their catastrophic failure in Iraq.
Will the billionaire property developer, whose victory over the Washington establishment has stunned the world, be able to avoid his two predecessors missteps in Iraq by nudging things forward towards this blueprint for a political settlement in the war-torn nation? It remains to be seen.
Turkish forces and allied FSA fighters target al-Bab with the aim of pressing on to ISILs main stronghold in Syria.
Turkish jets hit 15 targets in the al-Bab area of northern Syria on Sunday in an operation with Syrian rebels that could foreshadow a push on ISILs de facto capital Raqqa, the Turkish military said.
Ten defensive positions, command centres and an ammunition store used by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group were destroyed in the raids, the army said in a statement.
Nine Syrian rebels were killed and 52 wounded during clashes in the area, it added.
According to Al Jazeeras Osama Bin Javaid, reporting from Gaziantep on the Turkish-Syrian border, the attack on al-Bab started a few days ago when the Turkish military resumed air strikes on the area.
Since then, [the Turkish-backed] FSA fighters have come much closer to retaking al-Bab, he said, using an acronym to refer to the Free Syrian Army.
WATCH: The Disappeared of Syria
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that seizing control of al-Bab, around 30km south of the border, is a goal of the operation before targeting Manbij and Raqqa.
Kurdish-led forces recently drove ISIL, also known as ISIS, from Manbij, and Raqqa is considered ISILs de facto capital.
Al-Bab is near the border of Syria and Turkey, and is one of the last remaining [ISIL] strongholds in that area, Bin Javaid reported.
It is strategically important because Turkey needs to take this area if they want to reclaim all territory east of the Euphrates River, which was their goal when they first launched Operation Euphrates Shield.
The Turkish military launched Operation Euphrates Shield on August 24, entering Syria with the aim of both clearing ISIL from the border region and preventing the expansion of a Kurdish-controlled autonomous region.
The Turkish military and its allied rebel forces have so far seized control of about 1,620 sq km of territory, according to the military.
The Turkish army said shelling neutralised 10 Kurdish YPG fighters in the past 24 hours as they tried to seize control of the Tal Jijan area, in the eastern countryside of Aleppo province.
The YPG, as the Peoples Protection Units are kniown, is the primary ground partner for the US-led coalition in its battle against ISIL in Syria.
Ankara claims the YPG is an affiliate of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which has waged an insurgency in Turkeys southeast for nearly three decades and is designated as a terrorist group by Turkey, the United States and the European Union.
READ MORE: Syrian government texts east Aleppo residents to leave
The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a loose coalition of rebel groups led primarily led by the YPG, recently announced the beginning of its own offensive to retake Raqqa from ISIL.
Both Turkey and the SDF regional rivals due to tensions between Anakara and the YPG are vying to lead the operation to push ISIL out of its stronghold in Syria.
If the Turkish military and its allied rebel forces manage to take al-Bab, they will be well-positioned to move on Raqqa.
Andreas Krieg, a researcher at the Near East Centre for Security and Strategy at Kings College London, told Al Jazeera that Turkey did not want the YPG or the SDF to take more control of land [in Syria], which is why their military got involved [in Syria] in the first place.
With multiple, unaligned armed forces simultaneously pushing towards Raqqa, efforts to take the city from ISIL are bound to be complicated.
After taking al-Bab, which [the Turkish military] hopes is not that far away, they will take on Raqqa. But Raqqa is much more complicated because of the formation of forces in and around Raqqa. There are many sides there, not just the SDF, but the FSA, and others, said Al Jazeeras Bin Javaid.
Founder of whistle-blowing website, who has been living in Ecuadors UK embassy for years, denies the accusations.
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has been questioned by prosecutors at the Ecuadorian embassy in London, in the latest twist in a long-running legal battle over a rape allegation against him.
Assange, who denies the accusation, has been holed up in the embassy for more than four years.
Swedish prosecutor Ingrid Isgren entered the embassy building shortly before 10:00 GMT on Monday and stayed in the building for more than four hours. The questioning was being led by an Ecuadorean prosecutor.
The prosecutor [Insgren] did not say anything as she went in or went out, but we know now that she spent four hours in the building, said Al Jazeeras Emma Hayward, reporting from the Ecuadoran embassy in London.
There was no word from Julian Assange about how that meeting went.
Assanges lawyer Per Samuelsson has said that the questioning, which has been delayed in the past because of diplomatic disagreements between Ecuador and Sweden, could last several days.
After UN & court findings condemning 6 years of abuses by Sweden against Assange, Sweden finally takes his statement for the first time ever WikiLeaks (@wikileaks) November 14, 2016
I am very hopeful Objectively, there is no doubt that everything happened as Assange said it did, Samuelsson told Swedens TT news agency.
Outside the embassy, a small group of protesters held banners reading Free Assange and You Wont Stop WikiLeaks outside the embassy as the officials arrived.
Freedom Loving People of the World Say Thank You Ecuador! read another banner hung under the balcony from which Assange has sometimes addressed supporters.
A Swedish police inspector was also expected to attend the questioning and investigators planned to take a DNA sample from Assange, subject to his agreement.
Holed up
Assange, the creator of whistle-blowing website WikiLeaks, sought refuge in the Ecuadorian embassy in June 2012 after Swedish prosecutors issued a European arrest warrant against him, over allegations of rape and sexual assault filed by two women who met Assange during a 2010 trip to Sweden.
He denied the claims, saying they were politically motivated, and insisting his sexual encounters with the two women were consensual.
READ MORE: UN panel says Assange arbitrarily detained since 2010
He has refused to travel to Sweden for questioning, fearing that he would be extradited to the United States over WikiLeaks release of 500,000 secret military files on the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Swedish prosecutors dropped the sexual assault invesstigation last year after the five-year statute of limitations expired.
But they still want to question him about the 2010 rape allegation, which carries a 10-year statute of limitations.
It was the first time Assange has been interviewed over the matter since initial questioning by Swedish police at the time of the allegation.
Assange, speaking through his lawyer, has said that he welcomes the chance to clear his name and hopes the investigation will subsequently close.
In May, a Swedish court reaffirmed the arrest order , rejecting the finding of a United Nations working group that his confinement in the Ecuadorian embassy amounted to arbitrary detention .
We return to Japan to see how the remote community of Miyako has recovered from the 2011 earthquake and tsunami.
Ten years ago, in November 2006, Al Jazeera English was launched. To mark that anniversary, weve created REWIND, which updates some of the channels most memorable and award-winning documentaries of the past decade. We find out what happened to some of the characters in those films and ask how the stories have developed in the years since our cameras left.
Japan had been waiting decades for the big one to hit, an earthquake powerful enough to devastate the country
Emergency services and the public were drilled in how to respond when the earth moved; thousands of kilometres of sea walls were built to protect the coast from tsunamis, the deadly after-effects of quakes out at sea.
I've never forgotten for a moment the black tsunami wave going over the coastal levee ... I was one of the affected people. My house was swept away. by Naoshi Iwata, head of the Civilian Life Department in Miyako City Hall
But when the earthquake came on March 11, 2011, few would have predicted the devastation it caused. The magnitude 9.0 quake unleashed a tsunami so powerful, it tore through Japans defences as though they were not there.
The surge turned towns and cities into matchwood, killed thousands of people and caused a still-to-be resolved nuclear crisis.
As Al Jazeeras People & Power discovered, among the communities hit was the small port city of Miyako in northern Japan. In the days after the disaster its surviving citizens somehow had to carry on with their lives.
REWIND recently returned to Miyako and spoke with Naoshi Iwata, the head of the Civilian Life Department in Miyako City Hall, to see how those people have moved on.
There are people who have returned to the affected area I am going to retire in less than a year. This is where I was born and raised So I really look forward to the weekends and catching up with my neighbours. I want to continue living here.
On Thursday, the UF Hispanic Student Association and Hispanic-Latino Affairs broke down a wall.
The organizations created the wall, made of cinder blocks, for a unity demonstration behind the Hub. Throughout the day, students wrote words and phrases they considered harsh or cruel, with the intent to tear them down. The demonstration was in response to the presidential election results, said Edward Zambrano, the HSA treasurer.
Usually something like this would take longer to plan, but this seemed pressing, he said.
Zambrano, 20, said he knew it was something that could help students cope with the results.
Students dont think one candidate over the other is the answer, the UF political science junior said. Its going to take a lot of unification and love to bring us together.
Block by block, people painted words on the wall. Rapists, someone wrote. Bigotry. Hypocrisy. Fear.
Zambrano, who wrote anchor baby, said as a first-generation college student with parents who immigrated from Ecuador, its a phrase hes become familiar with.
The phrase carries a negative connotation by labeling children who were born in the U.S. to noncitizens. But he is not a burden to the country, he said. He is an asset.
The words and phrases on the blocks represented students daily struggles, he said, but tearing down the wall symbolized what they can achieve together.
The wall was a message that we dont want to build walls, Zambrano said. We want to break them down and bring people together.
Mariana Castro, the president of UF Chispas, said members of the organization have been victims of racial intolerance following the election.
It has damaged some of us to such an emotional point that some of us could not go to class yesterday, the 22-year-old UF neurobiology and Latin American studies junior said.
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It was OK to feel sad or hurt, she told the crowd. People who cannot sympathize for those who are afraid are privileged, she said.
Its OK to feel fear, because at the end of the day, thats what has won, she said.
Before the wall was knocked down, Jose Abastida, 25, told the crowd that as an undocumented student, he has seen injustice and inequality in the U.S.
Despite Islamophobia and racism existing in American society, the UF political science senior said students should not be afraid to be on campus. They need to stand together.
Im more pumped than ever to help fight the fight, he said. In unity, there is strength.
The UF Hispanic Student Association and Hispanic-Latino Affairs break down a wall made of cinder blocks for a unity demonstration behind the Hub on Thursday afternoon. Throughout the day, the organizations invited students to write words and phrases they found harsh and cruel, with the intent to tear them down.
As protests rage across the country following Donald Trumps election, his opponents in Gainesville are organizing acts of resistance this week and hoping to influence local politicians to fight the president-elects future policies.
On Sunday, about 250 anti-Trump protesters crammed inside the Music Art Movement and Action Club downtown to voice concerns about Trumps impending presidency, the second formal gathering by the group following an emotional rally outside Gainesville City Hall on Thursday.
As organizers spoke through black megaphones, discussing plans to protest Trump throughout the city Thursday, many stood in the clubs courtyard straining to hear.
Diana Moreno, the program coordinator for UFs Hispanic-Latino Affairs, helped organize the meeting. An immigrant from Ecuador, she wore a Not My President button as she implored the crowd to resist Trumps plan to deport millions of undocumented immigrants by making Gainesville a sanctuary city, where it would adopt policies against prosecuting undocumented immigrants.
She said those gathered needed to take direct action to protest Trump, who she said has marginalized minority groups.
We are here united against racism, against misogyny, she said.
Protests are planned for 4 p.m. Thursday at the intersections of Southwest 34th Street and Southwest Archer Road, and Southwest 13th Street and West University Avenue, among other locations. A march is also planned for Saturday at 4 p.m. starting at the Stephen C. OConnell Center.
Those gathered Sunday split into three groups to organize their plans of resistance, going to the main room of MAMA Club, the courtyard in the back and Haisley Lynch Park across the street.
James Davidson, a 49-year-old Hawthorne resident, was playing in the park with his 2-year-old son, Henry, when Candi Churchill, an organizer, gathered dozens in a circle.
He brought Henry over to the edge of the crowd, at one point hoisting him up on his shoulders to give his son a better look. Davidson said he worries about Henry growing up under a Trump presidency.
I worry about the future, he said. I worry about the future now more than I used to a week ago.
As they listened, Churchill took suggestions for the name of Saturdays march. The name Freedom From Fear won, getting the most snaps of approval.
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Kneeling on the sidewalk, Kayleigh Chalkowski, a 27-year-old Gainesville resident, started making anti-Trump signs for Thursdays protest. She drew Trump with orange and yellow markers before crossing his face out with one black line.
Chalkowski said she fears Trump undoing policies to combat climate change. She cited his appointing Myron Ebell, a climate-change skeptic, to lead the Environmental Protection Agency transition team.
I just really dont want to see us take a step backward, Chalkowski said.
After the meeting, Gainesville resident Alyson Chadwick walked over to Maudes Classic Cafe for a cup of coffee. While there, she got up to speak at the Not My President open-mic event. She told a group of about 20 people she worried about womens rights under Trump, mainly in light of his 2005 comments about his fame allowing him to make sexual advances on women.
Layne Wrighton, the owner and general manager of Maudes, said she was approached by Gainesville resident Jackson Sabbagh, who stood outside as they and customers shared their fears following the election.
I thought it was a great idea, Wrighton said. I think people should be able to come together.
Faye Williams, the owner of MAMAs Club, said she offered up her building after hearing the group needed a place. A community organizer for 43 years, she said it is time for the older generation to step back and listen to new voices.
She walked between her building and the park, listening from afar.
This is the young peoples movement, Williams said. They got to move it forward.
A woman holds a homemade cardboard sign while marching with thousands of other people on East Randolph Street in Chicago on Saturday morning. Those in attendance protested President-elect Donald Trump.
Gainesville Police is asking residents to call with information after reports circulated on social media of a woman luring others to be sexually assaulted.
At 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Kristen Oliff, who declined to comment for this article, wrote on Facebook about a woman who approached people claiming to be a single mom who needed a ride back to her house. The woman, Oliff continued, then leads good samaritans to a house where multiple men allegedly rape them.
Although GPD has not received any credible reports about the alleged incidents, many commented on Oliffs post saying they have seen the woman before. Oliff described the suspect as a slim African-American woman with a chipped front tooth.
GPD spokesman Officer Ben Tobias said police know who the woman is, and she has a history of panhandling, but the department has not received any credible reports to corroborate Oliffs post.
The problem is people are posting it on social media instead of calling us, Tobias said.
Josh Brown, a UF mechanical engineering alumnus, said he gave the woman a ride two years ago after he and his roommate met her at the Publix located at 1302 N. Main St. The woman told him she needed a ride to the hospital to see her daughter, who she said had sickle cell anemia.
I think at the end I just brushed it off, the 22-year-old said.
Last week, his roommate sent him Oliffs Facebook status, hoping to verify it was the same woman they encountered.
(Its) kind of surprising that no one drew (this) connection until this time, Brown said.
Anyone with information can call GPDs non-emergency line at 352-955-1818.
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Jess Hardy and Katherine Triplett met while working at a primate sanctuary.
Now good friends, Hardy, 26, and Triplett, 25, spent Sunday afternoon walking around and looking at the tables lining the lawn at First Magnitude Brewing Company. Each table advocated a different local environmental organization as part of the inaugural Fall Festival for the Environment.
We are constantly having to educate people about the pet trade, Hardy said.
The two women were part of about 100 people who came to the festival, where attendees made $5 and $10 donations to drink, eat and raise money to rid invasive plants from parts of Gainesville. The event was hosted by the Gainesville Arts and Parks Foundation.
Kentucky Costellow, who organized the festival, said the proceeds will benefit the Great Invader Raider Rally, which will be held Jan. 28. During the rally, volunteers will help remove thousands of pounds of non-native plants from the city.
My main intention is to instill responsibility in people, she said.
To prepare for the rally, Sundays event raised awareness about the presence of invasive species that causes a kink in the ecosystem, she said. Alachua County Forever, Gainesville Greenway Challenge and Florida Invasive Species Partnership were some of the organizations that attended.
Rose Godfrey, a UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences extension outreach coordinator, stood in front of the FISP table, which was lined with the skin of a Burmese python.
The python is one of many species that do not belong in Florida, the 36-year-old said. One of the partnerships main goals is to reduce the number of introduced species so native species dont suffer the consequences.
We could hopefully restore the balance so that children will have biodiversity, she said.
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With the election slowly fading back into our national collective memory, we feel it necessary to spur a discussion about our democracy. We wish to remind our readers that democracy is more complex than formal electoral processes. It is a complex and informal grid of unwritten, collective ideologies smashing together, breaking apart and reforming anew. When Donald Trump won, it really symbolized a total breakdown of a political machine similar to the Brexit vote. We now have the opportunity to rebuild it. We can rebuild it as a total fascist movement or we can rebuild it with a fresh start.
To those of you who point fingers at the evil white men who voted for Trump (not all of them voted for Trump, by the way. Some were incredibly vocal in their support for Hillary Clinton), know that you probably agree with them in the most fundamental reasoning in terms of motivation for voting: unhappiness with the traditional political machine. For better or worse, this nation acknowledged that the machinery formerly used to harness popular political opinion has broken down. For this, we should be ironically grateful.
Trump single-handedly demolished the Republican Party. The party was previously comprised of two general blocs: Christian fundamentalists and socially unconcerned, yet fiscally committed, conservative business elite. Both of which, mind you, abhorred Trump. Perhaps it was because of his coarseness. But in this coarseness, he exposed something basic and human about him. Once again, Trump is a repulsive human being, but compared to former GOP presidential candidates like Ted Cruz and Rick Santorum, hes at least human. There is something so monstrous about Cruz and Santorum; perhaps it is their desire and ability to impose Christian Sharia law, their blatant misunderstanding of fundamental economic principles and other things. As vile as Trump is, hes redeemed us from truer perils like Christian fundamentalists. Unless he dies and leaves Pence in charge.
On the other side of the aisle, the Democratic Party mostly unified behind Not Trump. This fundamentally stupid logic cost us Sen. Bernie Sanders, who couldve harnessed the anti-establishment momentum while also having sensible policy. In his place, Democrats put their trust in establishment candidate Clinton. Sure, shes progressive like Sanders on topics like LGBTQ+ and civil rights, but shes also the establishment vote. Hopefully, the its her time logic will meet its end, and the Democratic Party will evolve as well, ridding themselves of traditional logic and embracing the peoples true choices.
There are further consequences that extend beyond the political sphere, though. With the destruction of the political machine, theres an opportunity for us to rebuild it with rhetoric that doesnt disenfranchise people. Trumps success shows a rejection of the infamous political correctness movement. Unfortunately, he has officially normalized blatant racism and open misogyny.
Remember two years ago how words like waterboarding and torture were changed to phrases like enhanced interrogation? This was an institutional interpretation of political correctness. Its the same logic that could justify us renaming horrific acts like stealing and looting to enhanced property reassignment. This idea that we should use language that doesnt harm people works in cases in which we discuss those who are marginalized in some way in terms of race or gender identification, but it unequivocally fails when we make it universal across the board of discussion. In politics, we have known enemies, and not everyone deserves respect. Our method of discussion should reflect this, and Trump exposed this fundamental flaw in our political machinery.
English News Building a Community of Shared Destiny for Common Progress: President Xi Jinpings discourses on China-Latin America relations
Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 13 Novembre 2016
President Xi made a number of comments on the relations between China and Latin America and the Caribbean, expecting the two sides to build a community of shared destiny for common progress, and create a splendid future.
Source: Peoples Daily Chinese President Xi Jinping is going to pay state visits to Ecuador, Peru and Chile. China and Latin American and the Caribbean states are all developing countries in about the same development stage and face the same task of striving for development. In recent years, the relations between China and Latin American and the Caribbean countries have gained great development. President Xi made a number of comments on the relations between China and Latin America and the Caribbean, expecting the two sides to build a community of shared destiny for common progress, and create a splendid future.
1.Open and inclusive process featuring win-win cooperation
China and Latin America and the Caribbean share the same approach to development. We have found increasingly more common language whether in respective nation-building and governance or in international affairs. Facts have proven, and will continue to show, that the growth of China-Latin America relations is an open and inclusive process featuring win-win cooperation. It not only serves the common interests of the two sides, but also contributes to peace, stability and prosperity in the region and the world at large.
(May 2013, a joint written interview to the media of Trinidad and Tobago, Costa Rica and Mexico ahead of President Xi Jinpings state visits to the three countries)
2.An important window of opportunity for the development of relations
We believe that the further Latin America develops, the better it is for the world and China as well.
At present, there is an important window of opportunity for the development of relations between China and Latin America and the Caribbean. We should take a far-sighted view, keep abreast of the times, build on the traditional friendship, enhance all-dimensional exchanges, upgrade cooperation and work for fresh and greater progress in the Partnership of Comprehensive Cooperation featuring equality, mutual benefit and common development between China and Latin America and the Caribbean.
(June 5th 2013, President Xi Jinpings speech at the Senate of Mexico)
3.Set a model for South-South cooperation
China and Latin American and the Caribbean states are all developing countries in about the same development stage and face the same task of striving for development. We support each other in pursuing development paths that suit our respective national conditions and are committed to making the international order more just and equitable. These are the fundamental reasons which enable us to seek common ground while shelving differences and stand by each other's side in our joint pursuit of development.
Since the beginning of the new century, China and Latin American and the Caribbean states, focusing on the theme of common development, have deepened mutual trust in the political field, expanded cooperation in economy and trade, learned from each other in cultural and people-to-people exchanges and coordinated closely in international affairs. This has made it possible for us to make big strides in our relations and set a model for South-South cooperation.
(July 2014, President Xi Jinpings joint written interview with the major media organizations from Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela and Cuba)
4.The "Chinese Dream" and the "Latin American Dream" are closely linked
The relations between China and Latin America have witnessed a comprehensive and rapid development in the 21st century, and brought real benefits to the people of China and Latin America. It is common expectation of the two peoples to comprehensively enhance cooperative relations featuring mutual benefit between China and Latin American countries. China is willing to work jointly with Brazil and other Latin American and Caribbean countries, and to make the two sides good friends who share the same ideal and good partners who make progress together.
Unity, collaboration, development and revitalization are the dreams the Latin American people from generation to generation. The "Chinese Dream" and the "Latin American Dream" are closely linked. Both sides should take the courage to pursue the dream and jointly make the dream come true.
(July 16th 2014, President Xi Jinpings speech at the Brazilian National Congress)
5.A Five-in-One new pattern of China-Latin America relations
This afternoon belongs to China and Latin American and Caribbean relations. Chinese and Latin American leaders gathering together is a historical event of global influence.
At present, the relations between China and Latin America and the Caribbean are best ever in history and standing at a new starting point.
Here, I wish to propose that we jointly announce at this meeting the establishment of the China-Latin America comprehensive cooperative partnership of equality, mutual benefit and common development, and work together to build a Five-in-One new pattern of China-Latin America relations: sincerely trust each other in politics, cooperate with each other for a win-win outcome in economy and trade, learn from each other in people-to-people and cultural exchanges, closely cooperate with each other in international affairs, and promote each other in overall cooperation and bilateral relations.
(July 17th 2014, President Xi Jinpings keynote speech at China-Latin America and Caribbean Summit)
6.The establishment of the China-CELAC Forum send out a strong signal
The second CELAC summit held last January adopted the Special Declaration on the Establishment of the China-CELAC Forum, which has laid down an important groundwork for the establishment of the forum and advancement of our overall cooperation. Through this Summit, we will jointly announce the official establishment of the China-CELAC Forum and will hold the first ministerial conference of the Forum in Beijing at an early date. This will have profound implication for our future relationship and send out a strong signal of our commitment to strengthening unity and coordination and promoting South-South cooperation.
(July 17th 2014, President Xi Jinpings keynote speech at China-Latin America and Caribbean Summit)
7.Common dreams and shared pursuit
Currently, the Chinese people are striving to achieve the "Chinese Dream" of great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, while the peoples of Latin American and Caribbean countries are also struggling for the "Latin American Dream" of realizing solidarity, cooperation, development and revitalization. The common dreams and shared pursuit closely connect China and Latin America. Let's seize the opportunity, forge ahead, and try hard to build a hand-in-hand community of common destiny, so as to create a splendid future for China-Latin America relations!
(July 17th 2014, President Xi Jinpings keynote speech at China-Latin America and Caribbean Summit)
8.A creation in the history of China-CELAC relations
Half a year ago, I had a milestone meeting with the leaders of the Latin American and Caribbean countries in Brasilia. The two sides decided to establish the China-CELAC comprehensive cooperative partnership featuring equality, mutual benefit and common development and officially establish the China-CELAC Forum, which conforms to the trends of the times of peace, development, cooperation and win-win results, and should be called a creation in the history of China-CELAC relations.
The China-CELAC Forum is a newborn, just like a young shoot sprouting out of the earth, whose sturdy growth into a towering tree needs meticulous cultivation of both sides.
(January 8th 2015, President Xi Jinpings speech at the First Ministerial Meeting of China-CELAC Forum)
9.The overall cooperation between China and Latin America has set sail smoothly
At present, the relations between China and Latin American and the Caribbean countries are standing at a new historical point. With the establishment of China-CELAC Forum, the overall cooperation between China and Latin America has set sail smoothly. The two sides have opened a wide perspective for all-dimensional cooperation via working hand-in-hand in promoting the comprehensive cooperation partnership featuring equality, mutual benefit and common development, and jointly building China-Latin America community of shared destiny.
(October 2016, President Xi Jinpings congratulatory letter to the 10th China-LAC Business Summit)
10.A new stage of parallel development between bilateral cooperation and overall cooperation
At present, the relationship between China and Latin America has entered into a new stage of parallel development between bilateral cooperation and overall cooperation. China is willing to work together with Uruguay and other Latin American countries to jointly build a new framework of the 1+3+6 cooperation, so as to push China-Latin America relations for greater development and forge a community of shared destiny featuring joint progress together.
(October 18th 2016, President Xi Jinping held talks with President Tabare Vazquez of Uruguay)
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English News Chinese technology improves Ecuadors emergency-reaction capability
Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 14 Novembre 2016
According to data from Ecuador's Ministry of Security and National Institute of Statistics and Census, crime rate in the country dropped by 24 percent after the ECU911 came into service. In addition, the country set an example for other Latin American nations after its rankings of security index raised to 4th place in 2015 from the 11th in 2011.
By Li Qiang and Wang Xiaobo from Peoples Daily Thanks to an emergency warning and monitoring system developed by Chinese companies, Ecuador has significantly improved its capability in dealing with public security risks as well as its reaction speed towards disasters.
The ECU911, designed and built by China National Electronics Import and Export Corp(CEIEC), integrates Ecuador's various security and disaster relief agencies, such as police forces, fire departments, transportation, paramedic units and the Red Cross, into one platform to speed up reactions to emergencies via a single telephone number -- 911.
The ECU911 is the latest effort made by Chinese enterprises like CEIEC to bring sense of security and add luster to Ecuador, which has been faced with public security challenges, by introducing a series of high-tech products and services.
Taxi drivers, who have been suffering from robberies for a long time, are big beneficiary of the system. Thanks to the newly-equipped public security kit, taxi drivers can report emergencies by pressing a red button in the vehicle, and the locations as well as surveillance videos will be sent to the police simultaneously, said a taxi driver named Willian.
"The security kit connects with the ECU911 system command centers," explained Wang Fei, manager of CEIECs Ecuadorian branch.
The system, as a key cooperation project between China and Ecuador contracted by CEIEC and China CAMC Engineering Co Ltd, is also the first foreign-funded security system established in Latin America. Since the first command center was established in 2011, the system now has 16 centers, realizing a 100-percent coverage of the 23 provinces in Ecuador.
With the application of the ECU911, 87 percent of local police can make response in less than 3 minutes, and more than half of the policemen would arrive at the site within 10 minutes. But such process used to cost more than 2.5 hours.
According to data from Ecuador's Ministry of Security and National Institute of Statistics and Census, crime rate in the country dropped by 24 percent after the ECU911 came into service. In addition, the country set an example for other Latin American nations after its rankings of security index raised to 4th place in 2015 from the 11th in 2011.
As a result, Venezuela and Bolivia have inked deals with CEIEC on security system of national defense, while Peru and Argentina also expressed their interest to cooperate with China to improve their national governance.
The ECU 911 emergency warning and monitoring system also helped save a number of lives after a 7.8-magnitude earthquake jolted the Pacific coast of Ecuador on April 16. Just 10 minutes after the deadly quake, the employees of CEIEC arrived at the command center in Quito, and recovered communications half an hour later for earthquake relief.
With the assistance of the ECU911, first-hand information about surveillance videos, resource distribution and real-time updates were all sent to the authorities of Ecuador. The system finally stood the test with its outstanding coordination performance.
Because of its great performance, ECU911 was rated by the European Emergency Number Association as top level. It is the first one on American continent and the fifth one in the world that gained such credit.
Cesar Navas, Minister of Security Coordination of Ecuador, told People's Daily that the ECU911 not only reduced crimes, but also greatly aided the reaction speed to emergencies.
Chinese technology has helped protect the safety of Ecuadors citizens, said Navas, hailing an irreplaceable role played by the system in dealing with the earthquake disasters.
A symbol of Chinas high-tech brands, the system is believed to bolster the influence of made-in-China products. Ecuadorian analysts noted that the system not only represents the success of a Chinese firm, but also indicates Chinas national strength.
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Construction began today on a new market in Rajaf which aims to to enhance livelihoods and promote peace in a community impacted by conflict in Juba in July. Members of the Jondoru community in Rajaf County gathered on Friday to celebrate the progress on the market, which aims to serve approximately nine thousand residents, as []Source : http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Appa-sourceTheAfric...
English News Op-ed: Tokyo Trials should never be forgotten
Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 14 Novembre 2016
Words about denials of the Tokyo Trials were not on the horizon of the Japanese public before 1970s, but such ideology emerged in the 1980s as its right-wing forces mulled a complete reshuffle of post-war politics.
By Zhongsheng Source: Peoples Daily Mr. President, this is no ordinary trial, for here we are waging a part of the determined battle of civilization to preserve the entire world from destruction If there is no justification for punishment of individuals who have already brought civilization to the brink of disaster, then justice itself is a mockery.
The above remarks are recited from the opening statement of Joseph B. Keenan to the International Military Tribunal Far East (IMTFE), also known as the Tokyo Trials, as chief prosecutor in 1946.
By quoting these words at an international forum on the Tokyo Trials and world peace, held on November 12, Gao Wenbin, a 95-year-old professor who witnessed the Tokyo trials in court, stressed the importance of the trials in enlightening later generations.
This year marks the 70th anniversary of the opening of the Tokyo Trials. By bringing those who waged aggressive war and murdered innocent people in the victimized countries to account, the trials on Japanese war criminals 70 years ago upheld international justice and defended the dignity of humanity.
Scholars commented that the Tokyo Trials were a further settlement than the war itself, because it used the power of the law instead of military power. Its significance is not confined to those involved, but offers insight and enlightenment to later generations.
Experts from different countries noted at the seminar that the Tokyo Trials were of vital importance in a host of spheres, like international politics, international law and historic course.
In the perspective of international politics, it laid the foundation for the post-war international order in Asia along with the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation.
In terms of international law, the Tokyo Trials represent the victory of justice instead of the victory of the winners. It enriched the principle of nulla poena sine lege (no penalty without a law) and cemented the consensus that no war is legal. The concepts derived from this consensus, such as crimes of aggression, crimes against humanity as well as individuals are responsible for war crimes, provide a crucial reference to the theoretical studies and practice of international law.
The Tokyo Trials also worked as a recorder of history. The evidence gathered for the trials constituted a giant database for history, covering Japanese history from the end of the 1820s to its surrender in 1945, especially the aggression war launched by Japanese rulers as well as the crimes they committed during the war.
With detailed files and testimonies, the Tokyo Trials provided damning evidence of the crimes committed by Japanese militarists and stands as a warning to the world and the future.
The meanings behind the studies on the Tokyo Trials go beyond academic and historical importance. If put under the context of post-war politics in East Asia, Japans attitude toward the Tokyo Trials almost serves as an indicator of its political ecosystem.
Words about denials of the Tokyo Trials were not on the horizon of the Japanese public before 1970s, but such ideology emerged in the 1980s as its right-wing forces mulled a complete reshuffle of post-war politics. This kind of mentality prevailed to political, ideological, academic, educational and cultural circles since the beginning of 1990s as Japan fought hard to be a global political power.
With the right gaining more ground in Japans political arena in the past few years, some senior officials uttered remarks about distortions in the trials, and some even staged concrete actions to smear the final ruling of the trials. The repeated visits of Japanese officials to the notorious war-linked Yasukuni Shrine are one such example.
Last summer, the Liberal-Democratic Party of Japan (LDP) even announced that they would conduct an investigation and verification of the procedures of the Tokyo trials, which reveals Japans intention of historical revisionism.
The recent events in Asia, especially a series of actions Japan made to breach the post-war system, have raised concerns about the current regional peace. Against such a background, it is certainly important that different countries come together to ease anxiety and maintain regional stability by protecting the authority and solemnity of international law and order.
In other words, each country in East Asia and international society should frequently consider the historical and realistic meanings of the Tokyo trials in a correct way.
A Japanese journalist once made a metaphor at the first day of the Tokyo Trials, saying each scene can be compared to the classics of Shakespeare. As the unique appeal of Shakespeares work lies in its enlightenment beyond time, the Tokyo trials will demonstrate more far-reaching significance with the history moving forward.
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English News President Xi's Peruvian visit will usher new chapter in bilateral ties: diplomat
Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 14 Novembre 2016
With an investment of more than $14 billion in Peru, China is also the country's largest trading partner, export destination and source of imports, he stressed, adding that more than 170 Chinese enterprises have invested and developed business on Perus soil.
By Peoples Daily Chinese President Xi Jinpings upcoming state visit to Peru is of milestone significance in bilateral ties, Chinese Ambassador to Peru Jia Guide wrote in an article published in the Peoples Daily on Monday, before Xi kicked off his tour.
During his Peruvian trip, Xi is also scheduled to attend the 24th APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in capital Lima.
It is believed that the two ancient civilizations, respectively located on the east and west coast of the Pacific Ocean, will write a new chapter of friendship under the political guidance of the two heads of state, Jia added.
With ancient civilizations, abundant resources and diversified and inclusive culture, Peru enjoys a long-standing friendship with China, the ambassador said, citing the remarks of former Peruvian President Alan Garcia and incumbent President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski.
Garcia once praised China's social and economic reforms as one of the two major progresses of the late 20th century in world, together with globalization, while Kuczynski hailed the importance of China's development to the future of the world. Kuczynski also chose China as the destination of his first overseas visit after assuming office, which reflects the sound development of bilateral ties.
Jia further elaborated that as a reflection of China-Peru friendship, the number of ethnic Chinese people living in Peru has increased to 10 percent of the countrys population, since they first set foot on this Latin American country in 1849.
Over 10,000 restaurants offering Chinese cuisine in Peru not only light up Peruvian catering industry, but represent a fusion of two cultures, the diplomat added in the article.
Jia lauded the fruits reaped from bilateral ties since the two countries established diplomatic relationship 45 years ago, citing the frequent high-level exchanges, deepening mutual political trust, increasing trade and investment, improving cooperation mechanisms, mutual support in multilateral fields, and enhanced cultural exchanges.
Peru is the only Latin American nation that has established a comprehensive strategic partnership, and at the same time, has inked a comprehensive free trade agreement with China, underlined the ambassador.
With an investment of more than $14 billion in Peru, China is also the country's largest trading partner, export destination and source of imports, he stressed, adding that more than 170 Chinese enterprises have invested and developed business on Perus soil.
China's mobile phones, automobiles and engineering machines are popular in the Peruvian market, while the avocados, grapes and alpaca products from Peru are also favored by Chinese customers, Jia further explained.
In the article, Jia also affirmed Chinas appreciation of the theme of this years APEC meeting, namely Quality Growth and Human Development, saying that it has common ground with China's 13th Five-Year Plan to promote economic transformation and upgrade.
China and Peru share a consensus in facilitating regional economic integration, building Asia-Pacific free trade zone, advancing trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, opposing protectionism, and pushing forward economic globalization and inclusive development, the diplomat emphasized.
China will work with other regional partners to build an open and interconnected Asia-Pacific economy featuring innovation-driven development and integration of interests, he said.
According to him, the exchange of visits between the two heads of state in two months, which is rare in the world, reflects the close relationship between the two countries and their firm will to bolster their ties.
The converging points shared by China and Peru in their development goals and internal demands provide them with unprecedented opportunities to deepen cooperation, said Jia. He illustrated that Peru is determined to realize modernization before 2021, the bicentennial of the country's independence, while China also aims to achieve its first centenary goal in 2021, also the centenary of the founding of the CPC.
In addition, as Peru is working to diversify its industries and accelerate industrialization and China needs to export its production capacity, the two nations, standing at a critical stage of economic transition, will embrace the vast opportunities in cooperation on infrastructure, resource, mining and manufacturing, Jia concluded.
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At the heart of the drama over Wells Fargo employees having opened fake accounts was an incentive structure that promoted unethical outcomes. But that structure was hardly limited to one bank or even limited to the banking industry.
This scandal finds its origins in an incentive architecture encouraging bad behavior to happen and failing to punish that behavior (enough) when it does happen that plagues other industries as well as the government.
One of the fundamental tenets of economics is that economic actors respond to incentives. While this may seem obvious, economists take great care to prove across different countries, historical periods and business sectors that people respond to the incentive structure within which they are asked to perform. Driving this structure is what is known as the "principal agent problem." Without an incentive system rewarding effort, an employee hired to perform a task exerts the least amount of effort possible, which is the detrimental to the firm.
Higher-powered incentives are the "solution" to this problem, allowing employers the ability to structure rewards based on performance. The ubiquity of how economic actors respond to all incentives of varying degrees explains why thousands of people at Wells Fargo acted in largely the same way.
The widespread nature of the incentive disease that permeated Wells Fargo, however, extends far beyond its walls. Since the financial services sector is so politically important and therefore politically connected, the incentive problem in banking affects other stakeholders, such as politicians, regulators, U.S. attorneys, rating agencies, etc. They either explicitly or implicitly promote ethical violations or fragility-creating actions.
For politicians facing relatively short elections cycles, for example, legislation that produces positive outcomes for voters faster (such as mortgages) are often prioritized relative to those that take longer to bear fruit (such as education.) Politicians eager to win votes in the early 1990s not only passed legislation promoting homeownership for low-income groups using Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to carry out this objective but required the mortgage giants to maintain portfolios with at least a certain percentage of low-income loans (50%).
Presented by the government with an incentive structure rewarding a larger percentage of low-income loans, employees and subsequently loan officers followed suit, resulting in an increasing (and ultimately unsustainable) fragility in the financial sector. Thus, the ability and incentives of politicians to influence financial services led to an insidious incentives structure.
It is because the underlying incentive disease transcends the boundaries of one firm or industry that real change addressing these issues is such a monumental task. Focusing instead on placing blame squarely on one individual, like former Wells Fargo CEO John Stumpf, will be unproductive in truly changing outcomes. It ignores the fact that all economic actors respond similarly to the same incentive structure. Nor should we blame higher-powered incentives themselves, as they provide the fuel for the engine of growth in our system by motivating employees to pursue extraordinary work. Without them, we would, in effect, be an effortless society. This is not to say that individuals and companies are not culpable, rather that culpability extends far and wide.
It is not the person, but the underlying system that needs change, as all economic actors respond to incentives similarly. Instead, effective reform of the incentive architecture almost by definition requires a holistic, coordinated and cohesive approach by regulators and policymakers, transcending company and even industry boundaries. Yet in the case of Wells Fargo, cohesion is currently absent, as evidenced by the no less than six separate current investigations of Wells Fargo by six separate agencies.
True change in how incentives affect behavior would come from a thorough analysis of the incentives of the major companies, industries and executives. A more cohesive and coordination examination of the incentive architecture would also help policymakers find a unified voice across stakeholders in dealing with industry ethics in general.
Sharon Poczter is an economics professor at Cornell University who studies the bank sector and emerging economies. She can be reach on Twitter @SharonPoczter.
If there is one thing credit unions and banks can agree on with regard to the National Credit Union Administration's latest efforts to revamp its field-of-membership rules it is this: a lawsuit is brewing.
"It would shock me to no end if the bankers did not file a lawsuit," Geoff Bacino, a partner at Bacino & Associates in Washington and a former NCUA board member, said in an interview.
Though no legal challenge has yet been filed, the Independent Community Bankers of America telegraphed its intent to do so even before the rule was finalized, and new changes were introduced, at last month's NCUA board meeting.
So, what are they waiting for? It could be that they're waiting to see the language of the two additional field-of-membership proposals that were discussed during the agency's Oct. 27 meeting and were recently published in Federal Register. The clock is now ticking on a comment period that ends Dec. 9.
But the ball started rolling last year, after the NCUA published the first set of field-of-membership revisions, leading bankers to flood the agency with thousands of comment letters complaining the new framework was far too liberal. And though a resumption of that campaign aimed at the new proposals would come as no surprise, observers on both sides expect bankers' response to extend well beyond letter-writing this time around.
After all, the ICBA is already suing the NCUA over the recent overhaul of member business lending regulations. And even before the regulator had issued its final rule on field of membership, ICBA Chief Executive Camden Fine said the group was also giving serious consideration to a second lawsuit challenging any new rules.
From the banking industry's perspective, dual lawsuits would be costly, but Heidi Gesell, president and chief executive of the $258 million-asset BankCherokee in St. Paul, Minn., said the investment would be money well spent.
"Somehow, we need to get our message out there," Gesell said in an interview. "We need to keep trying."
Gesell submitted a comment letter opposing the original field-of-membership proposal unveiled last November. She said that she may try a second time but that she doesn't hold out much hope that she or any other bank advocate can sway the NCUA, which she sees as more of a partner to CU industry than a regulator.
The ICBA's member-business-lending lawsuit has already spawned a rare partnership between the often-competing credit union trade groups the Credit Union National Association and the National Association of Federal Credit Unions. Mary Dunn, former general counsel at CUNA and now a lawyer with CU Counsel, said the ICBA's telegraphing its intent to litigate "before they even saw the final rule does call into question the rationale for a lawsuit."
One question hanging over a potential field-of-membership lawsuit is what will happen with the member-business-loan litigation. The NCUA recently filed a motion requesting a dismissal of that lawsuit, and Dunn asserted the regulator's motion clearly demonstrates the bankers have misread the rule.
It also also unclear how quickly the member-business-loan lawsuit will move through the legal system. While there is no standard timetable for when the court might respond this particular district court, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, has earned the nickname "Rocket Docket" because it tends to move reasonably swiftly. Even if the court does dismiss the member-business-loan suit, however, there is still the possibility that the bankers may sue over the NCUA's recently approved field-of-membership rule.
It's not just the ICBA that is dismayed by the NCUA's liberalization of member business lending and field of membership. Fine's counterpart at the American Bankers Association, Rob Nichols, said last month that his group "will take any action necessary to protect the interests of taxpayers, small banks and the communities they serve."
The NCUA ignited the latest bank-credit union imbroglio Oct. 27 when Chairman Rick Metsger and J. Mark McWatters, another board member, gave final approval to the sweeping field-of-membership revision initially proposed a year earlier. Ironically, as part of its editing process, the agency actually removed a provision that banks had tabbed a particularly objectionable from the final version. It would have permitted entire congressional districts to be counted as well-defined local communities.
Whatever goodwill that move might have engendered was quickly canceled out when the board made public the details of the two new proposals it plans to add to the freshly modified regulation.
One would quadruple the population cap for a well-defined local community to 10 million people. The other would permit credit unions to use a narrative format, instead of existing political and census jurisdictions, to define their fields of membership.
The NCUA said it decided to introduce the proposals in response to what it termed "stakeholder suggestions" contained in the more than 10,000 comment letters it received.
The field-of-membership rule finalized late last month would take effect 60 days after it is published in the Congressional Record. The board can vote on the other proposals after the 30-day comment period.
As it stands now, the rewritten field-of-membership rule that the NCUA just approved includes several provisions that could make it markedly easier for credit unions to increase membership. One eliminated a rule that had required credit unions seeking to serve any part of a core-based statistical area to serve the region's "core," downtown district, as well.
Another did away with a guideline that had made it difficult for credit unions to serve portions of core-based statistical areas whose populations exceeded 2.5 million. Under the revised rule, credit unions can seek to serve portions of any combined statistical area, provided the population of the portion in question does not exceed 2.5 million.
The old rule limited the population of rural districts to 250,000, or 3%, of a state's population. The revised rule raises the rural district population limit to 1 million. Other provisions made it easier for single-common-bond and multiple-common-bond credit unions to add members.
In bankers' eyes, the rewritten field-of-membership rule "goes way beyond" anything envisaged for credit unions when the industry was founded and given its federal income tax exemption.
"If you look back, there were very specific reasons and limitations," Gesell said. "Now, that's all being blown away. These latest proposals fly in the face of what credit unions were meant to be."
The decision to revive narrative charter applications surprised Keith Leggett, a retired ABA economist who authors a blog about credit union issues, because they proved susceptible to legal challenges in the past. Indeed, Leggett suggested legal vulnerabilities were the reason that the NCUA did away with the practice about a decade ago. "The agency was accused of accepting evidence that supported the applications and tossing out any evidence that did not," he said.
While it is predictable, perhaps, that bankers would see red over a proposal describing aggregations of 10 million people as well-defined local communities, Marc Schaefer, president and CEO of Truliant Federal Credit Union in Winston-Salem, N.C., labeled bankers' concerns "a tempest in a teapot."
"Field of membership is something Congress intended for NCUA to interpret," said Schaefer, whose credit union, then known as AT&T Family Federal, stood at the center of the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case that ultimately resulted in passage of the Credit Union Membership Access Act of 1998.
"This battle was fought a long time ago," Schaefer said. "It's not a productive use of resources. The courts are not going to protect a whole segment of the market because that's what the bankers want."
Summit State Bank in Santa Rosa, Calif., has hired a rival's chief credit officer.
The $514 million-asset bank said Brian Reed will succeed Brandy Seppi as credit chief on Dec. 5. Seppi was named chief lending officer.
Reed joins Summit from the $1 billion-asset First Community Bank in Santa Rosa.
"With the addition of Brian, we believe we are well positioned to serve the lending needs of small businesses and nonprofits while achieving greater results well into the future," Jim Brush, Summit State's president and CEO, said in a press release Monday.
Brush became Summit's CEO and president in April after he was appointed to the bank's board in 2009. He succeeded Thomas Duryea, who resigned and joined Summit Bank in Oakland, Calif., as CEO in September.
President Obama visits Greece in three days, and is walking into hazardous territory, at least for the photo ops he was planning in the birthplace of democracy.
In Greece, there is none of the cognitive dissonance about President Obama that one sees in the U.S.: although an overwhelming majority of Americans believe the country is going in the wrong direction, Obama remains personally quite popular. It's as if we can't look beyond Obama's winning, grinning persona and cannot see that Obama is the one responsible for the country's wrong direction.
In Greece, unfortunately, there has been a strong anti-American view of the U.S. ever since Andreas Papandreou demagogued the American bases out of Greece during the 1980s. The mainland bases were duly shut down, Souda Bay on the island of Crete was the only one that remained open.
To say that Orthodox Christian Greeks did not take kindly to Bill Clinton's bombing of Orthodox Christian Serbs in the spring of 1999 would be a pretty considerable understatement, so when Clinton visited the city of Athens that autumn the walls of its buildings were suddenly plastered with posters of Clinton as Hitler. There were a lot of demonstrations and property damage leading up to, and carried on during, Clinton's visit.
Then George W. Bush invaded Iraq just a few years later. Greeks were apoplectic, and not just because they opposed the invasion. Having lived through the Nazi occupation of WWII, and a subsequent civil war between communists and republicans (Greece was the only nation contested and saved from communist rule in the aftermath of WWII), Greeks were afraid the war would spread (it didn't) and concerned that a refugee crisis would result (it did).
Anarchists and far leftists are pretty common in Greece. The mysterious November 17th terrorist group, which for decades seemed to be committing mayhem on a regular basis with no consequences, was finally unmasked in 2002 by a Chinese clock which malfunctioned, detonating a bomb being carried by one of its members, who was injured, but not severely enough to prevent him from dropping the dime on his fellows.
November 17th took its name from the student uprising in 1974 at the Athens Polytechnic College which protested the ongoing rule of an American-backed military junta that had seized power and imposed virtual martial law on the country in 1967. While the CIA's involvement, exposed as a result of FOI requests, was not our finest hour, geopolitical considerations (i.e., the Cold War and Greece's proximity to the USSR) led then-president Johnson to approve of the overthrow.
The protests at the Polytechnic College and the subsequent restoration of democracy to the people who actually invented democracy was not a bad thing. What was a bad thing, however, is that, having seen a successful attempt to take over an institution of higher learning, anarchists have since used the same tactic to really tear things up from time to time.
The chief reason they use this tactic of co-opting universities and using them as a base for their nefarious work is that after the '74 Polytechnic uprising, Greece passed a law declaring all of its universities and colleges places of asylum: the police and military are not allowed onto their grounds. So when they want to wreak a little havoc, whether it be against the IMF, the EU, the G8, or the U.S., the anarchists simply camp out on university property, manufacture Molotov cocktails on their premises, load them into shopping carts swiped from local supermarkets, and push them out into the streets where the cocktails get ignited and thrown at buildings, businesses, and law enforcement personnel. Traditionally, Greek police adopt a policy of containment and pretty much let the anarchists have their way as long as they stay within predetermined boundaries.
Now here's the problem with Obama's visit: it falls on November 15-16, exactly at the time when anarchists get revved up to celebrate the November 17 uprising. My Greek wife is incredulous. "Did not the Americans know about November 17th?" she asked me. "Doesn't their ambassador know anything about Greece?"
Obama had planned on a magnificent speech lauding the Greek democratic tradition on Pnyx Hill, just to the west of the Acropolis. This is the place the Athens ekklesia, or assembly, met during classical times to hash out and vote on policies for their city-state.
Mr. Obama was to stand there, demonstrating his considerable oratorical skills like a latter-day Demosthenes, with the real columns of the Parthenon in the background, instead of those Styrofoam things he had placed behind him in Denver's Mile High Stadium in 2008 when he accepted the Democrat nomination for president.
Buildings' walls all around Athens are once again festooned posters denigrating the American president: they show Obama with the "prohibited slash across his face like an "insufficient funds" stamp on a bounced check. The text of these posters is as follows:
Obama: Unwanted!
To the Streets of November!
Anti-imperialistic Uprising Against:
NATO, American Bases,
Imperialistic Wars and Fascism,
The Division of Cyprus, (and)
The Social Barbarism of the European Union and the IMF!
The AP reports that the "Conspiracy Cells of Fire," a member in good standing of the Anti-imperialistic Consortium of Leftists, is "urging anarchists to 'spoil the party... and sabotage'" Obama's visit. The group's website encourages anarchists to "return a little of the violence that we receive daily" to the organizers of Obama's visit (What "violence" they are referring to is anyone's guess.). A march to the U.S. embassy is planned.
A similar march protesting Clinton's visit in '99 resulted in violent clashes and extensive property damage. So we have some fireworks to look forward to in Greece during the next few days. By the way, in 2007 a rocket was fired at the embassy from a construction site across the street by yet another anarchist group, the Revolutionary Struggle.
On the route to the embassy, in the median of Vasillisas Olgas Avenue, stands a life-sized bronze statue of Harry Truman. Truman is striking a dynamic pose, one foot forward, his coattail flowing backwards in a breeze, left hand down near his pants pocket and balled into a fist, his right tightly holding a rolled up copy of the Marshall Plan.
The statue was erected during a happier time for Greek-U.S. relations, after Harry had fed thousands of starving Greeks with American food products in the aftermath of WWII, during which the Nazis had shipped all of Greece's agricultural output to Germany.
Poor Harry. He gets torn down every time the anarchists act out, and he'll probably get pulled off his pedestal during the November 15th demonstration as well.
And poor Barack. He kind of got torn down from his pedestal, too, on November 8th. Now the dramatic venue for his speech has been cancelled. Due to security concerns, instead of the Pnyx, he'll speak at an indoor auditorium in downtown Athens.
Here's hoping he has a safe trip, and I mean that sincerely.
The progressives are determined to get rid of the Electoral College. Of course they are. Abolishing the Electoral College would complete their project of overthrowing America's unique federal system, begun about one hundred years ago.
The direct election of senators was the first and greatest victory of the progressives over the Framers of the Constitution. Made possible by the Seventeenth Amendment in 1913, it mortally wounded the Founders' system. Abolishing the Electoral College will finish the job. And the progressives mean to do just that.
If we want to understand the efforts of the Framers during that hot summer in 1787, we must see them as trying to design self-government with a sober assessment of human nature in mind. When in the next century Lord Acton wrote that "power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely," he captured in a ringing aphorism the view of the Founders.
This understanding of the effect of political power on human nature explains the Framers' focus on defining and limiting federal power. They did so by distributing power among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the federal government; preserving the political independence of the states; and creating a zone of liberty around the individual even by further dividing the (supreme) legislative power itself, crafting two legislative bodies with separate powers and potentially competing interests.
Jefferson put it this way:
What has destroyed liberty and the rights of man in every government which has ever existed under the sun? The generalizing and concentrating all cares and powers into one body.
And Lord Acton put it this way:
Liberty consists in the division of power. Absolutism, in concentration of power.
The Framers of the Constitution aimed to preserve your unalienable rights and mine by preventing the concentration of political power in the central government.
They began with "the Virginia Plan," the original proposal written by James Madison and presented by Edmund Randolph at the Constitutional Convention. This initial proposal opened the discussion and became the basis of the debate. David O. Stewart in his book The Summer of 1787 describes the Virginia Plan like this:
The people would elect the "first Branch" of the legislature[.] That "first branch" (the future House of Representatives) would choose the "second branch" (the future Senate). Together, those two houses would select the president and appoint all the judges.
Self-government meant that in America, the people and their elected representatives were going to populate the government all the way to the top. But how? The important feature of Madison's plan was that it provided a way to accomplish that. To do so, Madison made a decisive break with England's parliamentary system. The problem with the English model was that the House of Lords was in the hands of the hereditary nobility, and the executive was in the hands of the hereditary monarch. Since America was not going to have a king or a House of Lords, there was no way to make the English model fit America's needs.
It is all too easy for us today to fail to recognize how much of Madison's proposed system of representation actually made it into the Constitution of 1787. This is because the original system of federal elections was significantly different from the one we have today. Only the way we now elect the members of the House is according to the original Constitution.
According to Madison's Virginia Plan, the voters would only directly elect the members of the first branch. The Constitution of 1787 preserved that basic feature. Members of the House of Representatives were the only federal officers directly elected by the voters. The indirect election of U.S. senators was also carried over from the Virginia Plan to the Constitution. U.S. senators were elected by each state legislature; the state legislatures did the selecting in place of Madison's first branch. This followed Madison's proposed format of indirect representation for the upper chamber, with the additional advantage of also providing each state with representation within the federal government.
This modification of Madison's original plan by the Framers was brilliant. Having the first branch of the federal legislature choose the second branch would have had the effect of binding the two branches close together. The selection of senators would also have been a collective process by the first branch. By using the state legislatures as many different channels through which the voters populated the Senate, the Constitution's original design dispersed the process of selecting senators over the whole extent of the republic, state by state. In addition, making the selection process for the two chambers separate in this way put their independence of each other on a firm electoral foundation, preventing the concentration of federal legislative power that would have resulted from the Virginia Plan.
Finally, there can be little doubt that the most important benefit of the constitutional system was that it worked to preserve the political independence of the individual states.
That was the electoral system for Congress America once had.
The direct election of U.S. senators, the system we have today, bypasses the state legislatures. Direct election began a process of putting an end to America's unique federal system. The independence of the states and their ability to counter-balance the power of the central government has withered away. The Senate had been a barrier to the passage of laws infringing on the powers reserved to state governments, but the Senate has abandoned that responsibility under the incentives of the new system of election. Because the states no longer have a powerful standing body representing their interests within the central government, the power of the central government has rapidly grown at the expense of the states. The states increasingly are relegated to functioning as administrative units of today's gargantuan central government. The Tenth Amendment has become a dead letter.
Instead of retaining many of their powers and responsibilities, and surrendering only a limited number of their powers to the central government, as the Framers intended, the states are more and more entangled in administering programs of the central government and in carrying out mandates of the central government. As the central government has metastasized and the states have lost their independence, liberty has diminished. Getting rid of the Electoral College would complete this project.
The Electoral College was another brilliant modification by the framers of Madison's plan. Instead of having the two branches of Congress together choose the president, once again, the voters initiated the process at the state and local levels by choosing the presidential electors. The model for this system was the slates of delegates who had represented the people of the individual states at the Constitutional Convention. Leading citizens well known to the voters were to be chosen by the voters for the special purpose of selecting the president. The electors would assemble in the state in which they were selected, deliberate, and then cast the votes allotted to that state.
Though it does not function as the Founders originally intended, the Electoral College remains an essential constitutional safeguard of American liberty. Each state is allotted as many electoral votes as it has senators and members of the House of Representatives. To become president of the United States of America, one must even today win the national election state by state. Eliminating the Electoral College and electing the president by the popular vote, as the progressives are determined to do, would transform the office. Its occupant would in effect become the president of the big cities of America, and the last vestiges of political autonomy guaranteed the individual states by the Constitution's electoral system would be swept away.
We must preserve and protect the Electoral College at any cost. Repealing the Seventeenth Amendment instead would be a great idea, though. It would be victory for the Founders' vision and a defeat for the progressives. It would make possible a return to America's unique, liberty-preserving federal system.
Robert Curry is the author of Common Sense Nation: Unlocking the Forgotten Power of the American Idea from Encounter Books. You can preview the book here.
President Obama has done everything possible to damage race relations, especially planting hostility against white people and a disabling sense of victimization in the hearts of young black people. His message of division and resentment has been carried forth by smug media. But the left wing's dogma of white privilege is proffered mainly to elites who don't live side by side with different races. Ordinary white and black people who live and work closely together still predominantly share mutual acceptance and respect in their everyday lives.
That is true of the area where I live and vote. The precinct where I vote is in the most thoroughly biracial community I have ever seen in America. This district is probably 50-50 white and black. It abounds with little white buildings where a dazzling light of the Living Self is shared. The churches huddle closely together and silently speak joy to one another across a few feet of muddy lawn. While houses of worship are either predominantly white or black, any person can walk into any church and encounter a loving fellowship in Christ. I know, because I have.
Voting here takes place in a 1960s-era Head Start building. This election precinct is run almost entirely by black ladies. A few years ago, I saw a solitary black man behind the registration table, but never once a white person. There are ten qualified political parties in South Carolina. For those who wanted to vote a straight party ticket, they appeared on the left side of Tuesday's touchscreen ballot. Number one on the ballot was the Democratic Party. Way down the list, next to last, past the Greens, Working Families, United Citizens, and Libertarians, the patient voter could find the Republican Party.
I have never stood in line to vote until last Tuesday. As I was waiting, a middle-aged white woman rushed in. She explained that her daddy was very sick and shouldn't be out of his bed. She was having trouble with the portable oxygen, and he needed to vote as soon as possible. The Misses Latasha and Lillie Mae swung into action. The younger woman brought the material for curbside voting out to the man, while the older lady stood guard over the voting booth he was using remotely. This patriot and beloved father was fully reclined in the front seat of a runcible green van, eyes barely open, as he cast his ballot. He said, "Thank you, ma'am" to Latasha, as is the custom here.
Whom do you suppose he voted for? For the candidate who called him deplorable, racist, and who despises him? For a woman who strew national secrets around with as much concern as she would have for used tissues? Did he choose the secretary of state who let her direct that subordinate employees be disemboweled and butchered in the streets, even though they had pleaded to her for protection?
The dying man in the van is old enough to remember humming textile mills that once were planted everywhere in this region. Maybe he worked in one and went bowling with the team from work on Wednesdays. The mills are gone. The train tracks are covered with weeds, the sidewalks along so many main streets are broken and buckled, and shop windows wear shrouds of rain-swollen plywood. The economic devastation this man has seen is due in part to the trade agreements one candidate promoted, even as the other candidate is promising to focus on the very problem that caused so much destruction.
Left-wing cake holes have been gorging themselves for years on the expired and spoiled provender that Americans are racist and sexist. Donald Trump's victory has acted on their bloated stomachs like an emetic, causing the racism-sexism lies to become as vomitus shooting from their mouths. For example, CNN's hate color commentator Van Jones blamed Trump's victory on "whitelash." Jones upchucks thusly because he neither knows nor cares anything about the real lives of black people, the real problems they face, and the causes of those problems. The people in this rural area, white and black, face the same problems of economic devastation, drug abuse, and worsening crime.
Republicans who did not unify around Trump will now be calling to unify with Democrats, as a way of defeating the programs of President Trump. Paul Ryan opened his congratulatory remarks with a call for national unity and added, "What I see here is a unified government and not having more of this protracted divided government[.]" Ryan needs a new optometrist. The last thing America needs now is unity. Democrats will never unify with Republicans. They have become the party of hate, and they will continue to hate. Only hate can preserve the left wing's misbegotten power and counterfeit virtue.
President Trump needs to keep his promises to a dying South Carolina man. Trump needs to build a mighty manned wall, because a country without borders is committing suicide. The president needs to keep his promise that the resources that come from this land will be made useful by Americans once again. For the sake of those Americans in heaven, as one Carolina man soon will be, and those still on Earth who worked and fought to preserve the Constitution and our national greatness, President Trump must reject the falsehood that we are a nation of cowards and restore the truth that we are a great, good, and generous people. When that happens we will once again be a great and unified nation.
Donald J. Trump's victory was described as an upset in many news outlets on November 9, 2016. It was an "upset" only because of the almost uniformly failed prognostications about the results from "scientific pollsters," from Nate Silver to Quinnipiac to CNN and numerous others.
What went wrong?
The news networks and the pollsters will try to answer this question by looking at the demographics of polling, and how there were so many unanticipated "last-minute" shifts among Jews, blacks, women, educated, uneducated, Hispanics, etc. This type of analysis tends to shift the blame from the pollsters to the "unpredictable voter." The voter is thus portrayed as behaving in a surprising, even erratic way that caused the pundits to err.
Is this model of explanation valid?
In order to answer our question, it is not necessary to review the details of polling methodology. Rather, we can answer our question by going back to the sixteenth-century savant Sir Francis Bacon. Bacon perceived that advances in knowledge were being held back by our biases. He called these biases "idols" and asserted that they distorted our perceptions of reality, and even our experimental approach in science.
His choice of the word "idols" was significant in a time when Christian religion was not considered retrograde, as it is in many learned circles today. Idol-worship was considered a wrong worship when compared to worship of the one true and living God of the Old and New Testaments. The Ten Commandments includes the statement: "You shall have no other God before me." If one did have another God, then he or she would be an idol-worshiper. Thus, by designating certain biases as idols, Bacon was to some degree loading his terminology to suggest a kind of ungodly behavior. And since Christians believed that Jesus Christ was the "way, the truth, and the life," the distortion of our biases was a departure from godliness and hence from truth.
Truth or the search for truth was a search to free one's mind from biases. Nevertheless, in our time, this writer has been told good-naturedly by certain academics that it is impossible to rid ourselves of our biases, so we should extol our biases, teach our biases (as though they were truth [realizing as we do that they are nonetheless relative]), and go happily on our deconstructivist way.
However, Bacon listed four idols that this writer will briefly outline and suggest that they applied to the vast majority of pollsters in this presidential election. Their minds were distorted by mis-assumptions, inclinations, and various agendas that kept them enslaved to their biases and thus, in the last analysis, wholly incorrect in their predictions.
First, Bacon refers to "Idols of the tribe." This includes the human tendency to "accept, believe, and even prove what we would prefer to be true." Also, it includes our tendency to "rush to conclusions and make premature judgments." Thus, President-Elect Trump was right on target when he described the election as rigged. The pundits and pollsters had politically correct assumptions that attitudes of denigration of the Trump movement and the candidate contributed to their uniformly incorrect assessments. For example, how often did I hear Megyn Kelly say to guests she was interviewing that the vast and enthusiastic attendance at Trump rallies was relatively insignificant? What really counts, she often insisted, is the voting turnout and not the rallies. Yet this observation cuts directly against common sense. Trump himself, with uncanny insight, remarked frequently at his rallies that the media showed only the people behind him when he speaks and failed to pan the enthusiastic, vast crowd in front of him. He reprimanded the media, but his criticism was ignored.
A second idol for Bacon was the "Idol of the cave." This includes "high esteem for a few select authorities," as well as "a tendency to reduce or confine phenomena within the terms of our own narrow training or discipline." On election night, some of the TV commentators admitted their polling experts had had long arguments with Trump's people who talked about expected large turnouts in certain "red" counties in North Carolina. But the pollsters pooh-poohed this because they were attached to their predictability models based on a succession of past elections. They statistically evaluated the variability of turnouts in 6, 8, or 10 previous presidential elections and concluded that turnout would have to be within a certain range. In fact, the turnout in various "swing states" was greater in the pro-Trump counties and outside the range of turnout of the pollster models. They had discounted the wholly correct feedback they had received from the Trump camp.
A third idol for Bacon was the "Idol of the market place." This type of idol is "from the 'intercourse and association of men with each other.'" Here the main culprit is language. Thus, the pollsters and the commentators who are working hand-in-glove tend to live in a politically correct world, a world where definitions are distorted to mean whatever the P.C. crowd wants them to mean. There is a mental discounting of certain Trump expressions as "mere demagoguery" when the people listening are hearing words that are "very inspiring." Thus, the commenters and the pollsters who support them have an edge of contempt built into their assessments.
Hillary and her supporters on PBS, CNN, NBC, ABC, and CBS are always using the word "inclusivity" as expressing her vision for America, thus they suppose that Trump's interest in putting more controls on illegal immigration or refugee admission is exclusionary, whereas he is merely talking about some practical restraints, not the elimination of our inclusive history. Thus, polling pundits failed to factor out or offset their own P.C. bias in interpreting the feedback from voters and potential voters. Pollsters must ask questions, and the questions as well as the hearing of the answers require an interpretive cognitive framework that governs the creation of the questions and the understanding of the responses. Thus, the polling questions may be distorted and colored by bias from beginning to end.
Bacon's fourth idol was the "Idol of the theater." This is the idol of the marketplace operating at a more sophisticated or philosophical level. Thus, the pollsters are not merely carrying around the baggage of left-wing politically correct assumptions and beliefs (both educated and uneducated may have these). They are reinforced in their anti-Trump prejudices by sophisticated economic theories like those of Robert Reich, Paul Krugman, and even David Ricardo (author of the principle of "comparative advantage," which is so basic in our formulation of so-called free trade deals that Trump wants to correct). The sophisticated anti-Trump pollsters and commentators are apostles of John Stuart Mill and his ethical principle of the greatest good for the greatest number. This principle is extended to apply to a global model (not the nation-state) as the "greatest number." To this end, they are willing to sacrifice other ethical philosophies embodied in the Ten Commandments and the Sermon on the Mount that ratify the sanctity of property ownership and of individual moral liberty, not imposition of fiats based on collectivist neo-Marxist assumptions.
In essence, it is idol-worship that caused a misunderstanding of the dynamics of this year's election by the media. But truth broke through and showed itself to an amazed population.
In July of 2011, when North Korea's butcher-dictator Dear Leader Kim Jung-Il died, all the NK Communist Party members in the land were ordered to cry hysterically, to ululate in grief at the death of Dear Leader, in public, altogether, on command. You can see it in this video, the Party cadres lined up on the hard snow in military platoon formation, men and women, bursting into tears when the command was given.
The BBC wondered at the time whether all that public crying was real or not, since Dear Leader controlled every human being in that country, by sending any wrong 'uns to his vast concentration camps to be starved and worked to death. Every tear-stained face in those black-clad platoons knew with absolutely certainty that they would be arrested and sent to death if they failed to show enough dramatic grief. Some unconvincing mourners were undoubtedly grabbed and taken away to the camps.
North Korea's national cry-in for the loss of Dear Leader is an important lesson about human politics: the power of closed cult indoctrination. Turns out you don't even need death camps. The famous Stanford Prison Experiment showed how it could be done with legally free Stanford students in the prime of life, able to walk away from the experiment any time they liked, without murderous guards armed with guns. All you needed was a Stanford grad student wearing a white lab coat. A whole series of experiments showed the same kind of thing.
The iron key to mind control is having one source of "real" information, and shutting off any competing ones. It's all Scientology has to deliver for its faithful followers to stay in that imaginary world. Most of the more fanciful religious and non-religious cults on the web have followers who indoctrinate themselves. The Five Star Movement in Italy started as an internet cult in the 90s telling teenage kids about airplanes spreading out chemtrails to control the minds of Italians; today the Five Star Cults controls a plurality of votes in the Parliament in Rome. Today "brain hackers" are no doubt using the same dark arts on the more gullible of their webizens. It's one reason why teenage kids a decade ago started to put metal objects through their ears, lips and noses. To them those were magical symbols as surely as a reversed swastika was an object of power to the Hitlerjugend.
Cults are human universals. A lot of tribal groups are nothing but cults: The key is always restricting information, and crushing dissent. That's why U.S. cults often block communication between members and their families.
Karl Marx had only a few precepts for his followers to remember, and the most important one was, 'First, conquer the organs of propaganda." Which meant the schools and the newspapers in 19th century Berlin. Marx was employed as a "journalist," a word that was just as phony then as it is today. His real passion was mass agitation, and in that way, he was a kind of genius. When you control every message a person receives 24/7, through teachers and professors, through news media, and through their peers, you imprison people just as effectively as concrete blocks and iron bars, complete with AK-47s.
The United States used to have about a hundred newspaper owners, most of them small. Today we have half a dozen giant transnationals that can reach perhaps 90 percent of the population. If you wonder how it is that the American Left has all that power, the mental media monopoly is all you need to look for. They are so convincing that they even persuade themselves about plainly false superstitions like global warming. We may think we have made progress since the Dark Ages, but the fact is that humans are as superstitious as ever, perhaps more so. If you were a medieval peasant walking behind an ox plow all day you probably had more contact with reality than today's college indoctrinees.
So today we see the same thing happening on the American Left, for pretty much the same reason: Ever since the late 1960s, the Hard Left has run our schools, colleges, and mass media, with the inevitable result that American liberals live in a mental box where only one truth is allowed to be voiced: the Left created the worship of Obama the Savior (we will slow the rising of the seas), and Hillary the Woman of Destiny (who will liberate women for the worship of Gaia). These people are not technically crazy, although their beliefs do not correspond to reality. They are only deeply indoctrinated and protected from contradiction.
Today's Butcher of North Korea, Kim III, may have just murdered his wife, probably with an artillery piece, as he is wont to do to express displeasure at family members. But when Kim inevitably passes on, the national outburst of grief will be just as loud and dramatic as before.
You might object that American Leftists do not live in fear of imminent execution if they fail to cry hard enough at the Victory of Demon Trump. That seems true enough, but it ignores a basic fact about mentally closed cults, namely that they create their own realities, and if enough young feminists at Wellesley believe that Hillary's defeat equals Mass Mind Rape, they will feel and act exactly as if it's true. Cult fantasies are incredibly powerful, even with otherwise normal people. You don't need an actual artillery piece to blow up the victims: They create that reality all by themselves. Since every faithful member of the college Left is pledged never to listen to a dissenting opinion, they have cultified themselves. There's nothing we can do to make any difference: they are mentally armored. All we can do is wait for reality to assert itself.
Meanwhile, kids, have a good cry and don't forget your hanky.
It brings a smile to my face to read one article after another detailing how President Obama's legacies can be so easily undone by Donald Trump. The reason why so many of Obama's initiatives can be undone is because so many of them were done without authorizing legislation. Obama acted unilaterally, and the Congress, composed of timid Republicans, never mustered up the courage to object.
But because Obama acted unilaterally, often even illegally with insufficient authority, many of his actions can be reversed without even requiring authorizing legislation.
Let's take a look at a few:
1) The Iran deal. The deal with Iran to supposedly curb its nuclear enrichment was never submitted to the U.S. Senate for ratification, as it was supposed to be. That means that any succeeding president can simply ignore it.
2) The Paris climate deal. Obama signed the Paris Climate Accord committing the U.S. to reduce production of greenhouse gases to reduce imaginary man-made global warming. Trump has indicated he wants to pull out of this treaty, but liberals claim that the treaty requires Trump to give four years' advance notice before quitting. However, since this treaty, like the Iran deal, was also never submitted to the U.S. Senate, the United States is not bound to it, and Trump can simply disregard it, without any need for action from the Congress.
3) Obama's Clean Power Plan, which would effectively shut down many coal- and gas-fired power plants, was put into effect with an EPA regulation; no law was ever passed giving the EPA such sweeping authority. Trump's new EPA director can cancel it immediately. Trump can also open up new areas for oil exploration that were ruled off limits by Obama, again without legislation to back him up.
4) Obama's amnesty to children of illegal aliens (DACA). This too was implemented by executive order and can be canceled immediately.
5) Obama took the "work" out of workfare through an executive order, allowing people to once again get welfare without having to work. That also was the act of an easily reversible executive order.
6) Obama allows the so-called "transgendered" to serve in the military and has threatened schools that do not allow boys in girls' bathrooms. These too are easy to reverse.
Ironically, if Obama had acted legally and gotten these measures approved by Congress, as he rightly should have, President-Elect Trump might have had more difficulty getting all these measures overturned, especially in a closely divided Senate where 60 votes are often required to avoid a filibuster. But since Obama acted unilaterally, much of his legacy is as durable as Hillary Clinton's lead in Pennsylvania.
Ed Straker is the senior writer at NewsMachete.com.
On Friday, Pinch Sulzberger, publisher of the N.Y. Times, wrote a letter to his newsroom apologizing for their coverage of the Clinton/Trump campaign while simultaneously asserting they were completely unbiased. As non-apologies go, his is a classic. It took him 279 words to say the equivalent of we told the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth about both candidates and we promise to stop lying about Trump in the future. He sounds like a kid caught shoplifting: I didnt steal nothin, and Ill give back anything that wound up in my pockets, honest I will!
And then, the very next day, Pinchs newspaper of record published a story wherein Hillary blames her loss on James Comey:
Mrs. Clintons contention appears to be more rooted in reality -- and hard data. An internal campaign memo with polling data said that there is no question that a week from Election Day, Secretary Clinton was poised for a historic win, but that, in the end, late-breaking developments in the race proved one hurdle too many for us to overcome.
So an internal campaign memo from Hillarys campaign is now hard data? And this just 24 hours after your letter to the newsroom? Your journalists just cant help themselves, Pinch.
Henry Percy is the nom de guerre of a writer in Arizona. He may be reached at saler.50d[at]gmail.com.
Remember Merrick Garland, the judge President Obama nominated for the Supreme Court? Back in March, Republicans said they would not consider the nomination because it came too late in Obama's term to be considered, and they would leave it to the next President to choose a nominee.
But Democrats never give up, and President Obama may have a unique opportunity when the Senate goes into recess. Under the law, when the Congress is in recess for at least ten days, the President can make what's called recess appointments.
Under the Constitution and Supreme Court precedent, a president may make a recess appointment including one to the Supreme Court but only if the Senate is in a recess that lasts at least ten days. If the Senate reassembles more frequently than that, but does no business other than formally opening and closing a session, that still interrupts the opportunity for a recess appointment to any federal post. Once the Senate has recessed this years session for the final time, in late December, the Garland nomination if not acted upon would be returned to the White House. But whether that would create an opportunity for President Obama to name Garland to a recess appointment before inauguration day on January 20 depends upon how late in December the Senate is formally sitting, determining how long a recess will be until the new Congress meets on January 3.
In other words, if the Senate goes into a final recess before December 24th, or even simply takes ten days off in November or December, Obama will have a golden opportunity to directly put Garland on the Supreme Court. And recess appointments last until the end of the next session of Congress, which means two years.
Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution reads:
The President shall have Power to fill up all Vacancies that may happen during the Recess of the Senate, by granting Commissions which shall expire at the End of their next Session.
And in fact, President George W. Bush appointed William H. Pryor a circuit court judge during a Senate recess on February 20, 2004, and the appointment lasted past the November 2004 election until the end of 2006.
Let's hope that Mitch McConnell has enough brains to keep the Senate in session every few days and not get caught with his pants down, legislatively speaking.
Ed Straker is the senior writer at NewsMachete.com.
The left will not stand for a President Trump. Theyre crying, screaming, threatening, and attacking. None of us is safe whether youre an adult, a child, or even an innocent dog.
Trump supporters are being beaten on the street. Young students who voted for Trump in mock elections are being physically assaulted. One mother kicked her 7-year-old out of the house, verbally accosting him throughout the shocking ordeal, after learning that he voted for Trump in a mock election. She then posted the disgusting scene on YouTube. (See here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.)
Violent protests riots across the country are spreading as leftist goons having unfettered pre-pubescent tantrums drone on about peace and love. Targets of the attacks are anything and anyone, including the police. Meanwhile, plans are in the works to disrupt Trumps inauguration with civil unrest. (See here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.)
In addition to violence and threats of violence, the madness of the left expresses itself in other ways, such as when the CEO of one company seemed to order employees who supported Trump to resign. (Since then, shares in the company have dropped nearly 10%.) Or when a taqiyya-practicing Muslima filed a false police report claiming that a Trump supporter attacked her. She has since been charged with filing a false claim. (See here, here, here, and here.)
There are calls for the election results to be overturned, and lawsuits against Trump are in the works. One supposedly conservative journalist (cough) declared that Trump would resign or be impeached by the end of his first year in office. (I guess the crease in Trumps pants didnt cut mustard with the guy. You know whom Im talking about.) (See here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.)
West Coast states want to secede from the union. Until that happens, leftists are finding all sorts of ridiculous ways to comfort their fragile selves. Some are wearing safety pins (such as used on diapers) to signify they are a safe space for other traumatized zombies. Schools are offering grief counseling, allowing students to skip exams, bringing kittens and puppies into classrooms, and providing coloring books and Play-Doh (thats at the university level, by the way) among other measures to protect shattered souls. Videos are being made by the perpetually hysterical and tearful that give testimony to their abject trauma, including Yoko Ono recording a 19-second ear-shattering primal scream. (See here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.)
As readers are well aware, the media have been in full meltdown mode, shamelessly exposing themselves as the hacks they are, just as they did in the months leading up to the election. (See here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.)
Predictably, members of the Hollywood elite are also distressed. Why anyone cares what these people think is beyond me. Do journalists ever spread out across the country to ask farmers or steel workers for their thoughts on major events such as the results of this election? No. Instead, one-name goons like Cher and Madonna are peddled as important voices to weigh in on such matters.
As for Donald Trump, the rallying cry for him to be murdered comes from various quarters. Twitter has allowed the #assassinatetrump hashtag. Effigies of Trump have been hung, set ablaze, and beaten with sticks. Mobs in the street have threatened to set Trump Tower on fire. And a sign at one protest called for Melania to be raped. (See here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.)
The madness is unfolding at breakneck speed, with no end in sight. The president (or even Hillary Clinton, for that matter) could make a statement to help settle this insanity. But he hasnt. I think we can safely assume hes all on board with it, even cheering it on from the privacy of his soon to be former residence.
May God keep Trump and his family safe. And may we prevail against the evil machine that is communism masked as progressivism masked as the Democratic Party.
Hat tips: The Gateway Pundit, Breitbart, The Right Scoop, Weasel Zippers
In a 60 Minutes interview broadcast on Sunday night, president-elect Donald Trump said his administration would immediately deport 2-3 million illegal aliens with criminal records. As for the remaining illegals, Trump said once the border is secure, a determination will be made about their status.
CBS News:
What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people, probably two million, it could be even three million, we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate, Trump said in an interview with CBS 60 Minutes. But were getting them out of our country, theyre here illegally.
He continued by saying that after the border is secure, immigration officials will begin to make a determination about the remaining undocumented immigrants in the U.S.
After the border is secure and after everything gets normalized, were going to make a determination on the people that theyre talking about who are terrific people, theyre terrific people but we are gonna make a determination at that, he said. But before we make that determination...its very important, we are going to secure our border.
Asked whether he really plans to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border -- a proposal that served as a centerpiece of his campaign message -- Trump replied, Yes.
Since Trumps election on Tuesday night, the realities of actually building that wall have begun to set in. The Mexican government has publicly reminded him that Mexico will not pay for the wall. And asked about the wall, Trump transition co-chair Newt Gingrich said the wall was a great campaign device.
Trump also told 60 Minutes that the border wall, which was one of the centerpieces of his campaign platform, could be part wall and some fencing, in accordance with what congressional Republicans have proposed.
For certain areas I would, but certain areas, a wall is more appropriate, he said. Im very good at this, its called construction.
Is there anything Donald Trump cant do? His election is shaking up (for the better) the ruling British Conservatives, as a high-powered team (two top political editors and the chief political correspondent) at the UK Telegraph explain:
Theresa May is facing a growing Cabinet backlash over her decision to dismiss Nigel Farage despite him being the only British politician to meet with Donald Trump since his victory. The Telegraph understands a number of members of the Cabinet and other Government ministers believe the Prime Minister's allies have made a mistake by referring to Mr Farage as an irrelevance. One Cabinet source also accused Downing Street of having "made no plan" for a Trump victory, despite Government claims that officials have for months been holding talks with members of his inner-circle. Mrs May has made clear that none of her ministers will be allowed to speak to Mr Farage, the interim Ukip leader, despite his close links to Mr Trump. Mr Farage on Saturday spent nearly one hour with the president-elect at Trump Tower in New York.
That last point has got to be intolerable for the head of the British government. The special relationship with the United States has taken a beating under President Obama, who notoriously returned the bust of Winston Churchill to the U.K. after evicting it from the Oval Office. It is obvious that a bust of Churchill will be returned to the Oval Office, the only question being which British person will ceremonially bring it to its proper place at the heart of the presidency. On the assumption that the queen will not be available, May has got to be worried that Nigel Farage will have a picture even more annoying (to her) than this...
...to post on his Facebook page with President Trump, Winston Churchill, and himself in the Oval Office.
Farage and Trump apparently are BFFs.
Writing in the Telegraph, Mr Farage says that he was greeted like a long-lost friend by Mr Trump, who he supported on the campaign trail in America.
Even worse for May and the Tories, Farage has become the link between the new president and British politics:
Mr Farage also discloses that Mr Trumps team has raised concerns about the unrelentingly negative comments made about him by senior Conservatives and members of Mrs Mays Downing Street staff.
The Telegraph team is confident that May will have to back down and allow her cabinet ministers to talk with the former head of a rival party in order to get information about and perhaps information to the next president of the United States. Can Mrs. May say out of the loop?
With a court decision trying to obstruct Brexit, and with the Tories facing the job of actually implementing it, having Farage occupy the position of de facto ambassador to the Oval Office is a nightmare. P.M. May might actually have to obey the voters' will. According to the Telegraph, she is beginning to rethink something:
Mrs May will today say that Mr Trumps victory shows the Government must deal with the "overlooked" communities that have been transformed irrevocably by immigration without the "permission" of British voters.
Heh, heh, heh. I don't know about you, but I love it when squishy conservatives get outfoxed by real ones.
Victor A. Lundy is best known for his modernist architecture the imposing rectangles of the United States Tax Court Building in Washington, D.C., the angular shapes of the Church of the Resurrection Harlem in New York City, and the mushroom-styled umbrellas around the entrance of the Warm Mineral Springs Motel in Sarasota County, Florida. Born in New York City, Victor Lundy had a keen interest in drawing which he nurtured throughout his childhood. He eventually attended New York University to study architecture before he was sent off to the frontlines of World War 2. After returning from the war, Lundy graduated from Harvard University and went to Sarasota to make a name for himself. But a part of his life that deserves more than a passing mention are the years he spent serving as a soldier in the U.S. 26th Infantry Division during World War II.
In 1942, Victor A. Lundy was nineteen year old, studying to be an architect in New York University. The war had got him excited, because it provided him an opportunity to rebuild Europe after the war. Eager not to miss the chance, he and other college men enlisted in the Army Special Training Program (ASTP), only to find themselves thrown into the infantry. Lundy was horrified, and later recalled that during his training, he "never listened, I was busy sketching." But soon, "I sort of took to it. ... war experience just hypnotizes young men."
Lundy sketched his way through the war drawing whatever was around him forced marches, men at rest, and French villages. When a surgeon noticed his sketches while Lundy was getting treated for his war injuries, he was recruited to sketch a new medical procedure the surgeon was developing, allowing Lundy to miss eight dangerous months on the front.
Lundy filled up more than two dozen spiral bound sketchbooks, 3 inches by 5 inches in size, out of which eight have survived. He donated these, containing a total of 158 pencil sketches, to the Library of Congress in 2009.
via Messy Nessy Chic
One of the strangest places in Utah, United States, is Goblin Valley located in Emery County between the towns of Green River and Hanksville. This valley, which is only about a mile across and two miles long, is filled with thousands of hoodoos eroded sandstone rocks, carved by the wind and the water into shapes suggesting mythical goblins and other phantasmagoric creatures. The most striking of these formations are three isolated hoodoos, immense in size, standing on top of a narrow ridge, surrounded by the flat, grassy land that extends for miles around.
Photo credit: morgan/Flickr
The hoodoos were formed by the erosion of the so-called Entrada sandstone, that was deposited during the Jurassic period between 180 and 140 million years ago, when the area was situated next to an ancient sea. These odd shapes were created because the Entrada sandstone is made up of different kinds of sedimentary rocks having different levels of hardness, causing the rocks to erode at different rates. The softer rock material eroded more quickly, leaving the harder rock behind in the shape of goblins.
The secluded Goblin Valley was first discovered by cowboys searching for cattle. Then, in the late 1920s, Arthur Chaffin, the later owner of the Hite Ferry, along with his companions were searching for an alternate route between Green River and Caineville, when they came to a vantage point about 1 mile west of Goblin Valley. It is said that Chaffin and his companions were awed by what they saw five buttes and a valley of strange, goblin-shaped rock formations surrounded by a wall of eroded cliffs. Chaffin named the area Mushroom Valley. He returned to it in 1949 and spent several days exploring the mysterious valley and photographing its scores of intricately eroded rocks.
In 1954, the property was acquired by the state of Utah and the Goblin Valley State Reserve was established. It was officially designated a state park in 1964.
Photo credit: Pam Falcioni/Flickr
Photo credit: Rob Lee/Flickr
Photo credit: morgan/Flickr
Photo credit: Steve Corey/Flickr
Photo credit: Art Bromage/Flickr
Photo credit: jimmy thomas/Flickr
Sources: Wikipedia / MNN.com / Summit Post
2016 is known as the year that the Nexus brand was retired. With Huawei being the last smartphone maker to create a Nexus device with Google. Many were hoping that they would get another chance at making a device with Google, after all the Nexus 6P was one of the most popular Nexus smartphones ever, and it received nothing but great reviews. But Google decided to go with the Pixel brand this year, and as most of you know, despite it being Made by Google, HTC was actually contracted to make the device. HTC was the original Nexus manufacturer, so in a way, Google was going back to their roots. Now theres already been some reports out that talked about why Huawei skipped out on the Pixel project this year, and now theres another report out confirming those earlier reports.
Huawei ultimately decided not to work with Google on the Pixel smartphones this year due to branding. Knowing that their devices that they made with Google would not bear their own branding, Huawei felt it wasnt a good fit for them. Not surprising, considering Huawei has been working hard over the past few years to make a name for themselves in North America. And sinking in all this time into the Pixel smartphone wouldnt do much to help them out. But this doesnt mean that Huawei wont be working with Google on the Pixel program in the future. Its currently being rumored that Huawei may be working with Google in 2017 on a Pixel device that will have Huaweis branding on it.
While Huawei has had issues expanding into the US in the past few years, the Nexus 6P was perhaps the smartphone that gained the most traction for the Chinese manufacturer here. But working on a phone that has none of your branding on it, and offering it in a market that you are looking to crack, definitely isnt a good thing. So it makes sense for Huawei. But with the popularity of the Nexus 6P, its not surprising to see Google working with them on a new Pixel device for next year.
Its been almost a week since the US presidential elections took place, but the GOP candidate and President-elect Donald John Trump is still the talk of the town and likely will be for quite some time. The upcoming administration will certainly change a lot of industries with new sets of rules and regulations as Trumps political platform was heavily based on the idea of promoting production in the United States and limiting the influx of foreign-made goods into the country.
Apart from requesting American companies to keep their manufacturing operations within the US and stop outsourcing production, President-elect Trump has also pledged to raise tariff barriers in order to make domestically produced goods more competitive on the market. While that is a less-than-ideal situation for US-based tech giants like Apple, the foreign IT companies are even more worried about Trumps plans. As Business Korea reports, South Korean tech companies such as LG and Samsung have recently been moving a lot of their production facilities to China and Vietnam to reduce labor costs and obviously arent too thrilled about the likely possibility of paying increased tolls on the products they import to the United States.
As the North American sales amount to almost one-third of total sales of both LG and Samsung, high tariffs would almost certainly significantly lower their revenue and profits. Given how most of the final assembly sites of the South Korean tech giants are located in China, Trumps promise of 45% tariffs on Chinese goods certainly isnt good news for these companies. In addition to that, the new administration will likely scrap the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), a major trade deal negotiated by the US under President Obama and 11 other Pacific countries. The ultimate goal of the TPP was to slash tariffs and foster trans-Pacific trade to create a unified market similar to that of the European Union. While the Korean tech giants would obviously profit from such a partnership, the fact that its yet to be ratified means that Trumps administration can and likely will scrap it in a relatively simple manner.
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On the other hand, the South Korean IT industry could also see some benefit from Trumps economic policy which also wants to prevent Chinese companies from taking over US firms. This is significant because acquiring American chip makers has so far been Chinas primary method of competing with Korean semiconductor manufacturers.
We recently reported on the cell carrier television advertising spend for October 2016 showing that Verizon Wireless were at the head of the league table. Its easy to understand why Verizon Wireless were spending the most in advertising: firstly, they are Americas largest wireless carrier and have the deepest pockets to afford expensive television advertising. Secondly, Verizon Wireless has a pair of new devices in the shape of the Google Pixel and Google Pixel XL, and and they are not afraid to tell the country about it. And third, Verizon is feeling the pressure: in the last quarterly update, subscriber numbers fell and the businesses competitors have been piling on the advertising pressure.
Sprint, now Americas fourth largest cellular network after being overtaken by T-Mobile US last year, has maintained this advertising assault onto Verizon. The company has previewed their new advertising campaign on their website and they are showing how Verizon Wireless executives are stressin about why customers are switching to Sprint. The three reasons are that Sprint are offering 50% off the price of most Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile US standard plans (there are a number of caveats to this offer). Second, Sprints Unlimited Freedom offers unlimited airtime, text messages and data for only $60 a month where Verizon doesnt even offer an unlimited plan. The third reason picks a hole into Verizons network quality argument, explaining that in 2016 all carriers perform well and according to industry tests, Sprints network reliability is within 1% of Verizon.
Interestingly enough, one of these messages as reaches the consumer is dont let a 1% difference in network reliability cost you twice as much. Sprints network investment plan has been criticized within the industry for, essentially, not being expensive enough as the carrier has pursued a different network upgrade and densification plan as compared with the other national carriers. This is in part because Sprint has access to considerable spectrum at the 2.5GHz frequency, which although can allow a higher data transfer speed, is less able to penetrate into buildings or travel a long distance. Because of this, the traditional method of establishing a network of larger cell sites would be ineffective and Sprint has instead taken to using smaller cell sites in order to extend its network this way. So far, this approach appears to be working. And Sprints morale is also said to be good. Roger Sole, Sprints chief marketing officer, explained: Sprint employees and executives feel very positive about the momentum at our company, the new pricing offers for customers and our network improvements. You can watch the new commercials below.
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Before Android conquered the mobile phone industry as the dominant operating system, Samsung phones were running the Tizen mobile OS platform. Since Googles Android operating system took over the lead spot in the race, Tizen was left out in the cold, though a number of Samsung devices still run the OS at present. But the South Korean phone maker is rolling up its sleeves to bring back its proprietary operating system to where it was before. Samsung has launched a new incentive program that aims to support developers of Tizen apps with $1 million in investment.
The long-term goal of the Tizen Mobile App Incentive Program is to expand the mobile app ecosystem for Samsungs in-house platform by inviting the global developer community to build apps for Tizen. As well as new apps, the program also accepts apps that are already available on the Tizen store, so developers who have been a member of the Tizen community for quite sometime are eligible to participate. It is worth noting that the program is Samsungs first effort to support Tizen developers worldwide. Developers are allowed to submit their apps to Samsung for a chance to win $10,000 and even higher. The program will officially kick off in February 2017 and will run through October 2017. The program is open to developers who create apps for gaming, social networking, and more. Bear in mind also that Samsung will award $10,000 to each of the top 100 apps downloaded from the Tizen store and pre-registered to join the program every month. Developers will also be able to generate revenue from their apps through mobile ads with the InMobi Ad Software Development Kit.
Woncheol Chai, vice president of global product management for Samsung Electronics mobile communications business said in a press statement that the program is intended to evolve the Tizen ecosystem and provide better experience to customers. Submissions to the program will start in January of next year and Samsung will notify the winning developers every 10th of each month beginning on March 10, 2017 until November 10, 2017. The program was also announced last week at the NASSCOM Game Developers Conference, largest gathering of game developers in India, where Samsung last month unveiled the Tizen App Challenge to persuade Android and iOS game developers to port their existing games to Tizen in exchange for cash rewards of up to $20,000.
While the majority of us will of course understand that Samsung is a major, major player in the world of mobile technologies thanks to their smartphone and tablet divisions, but they are also a major player in consumer electronics, too. For Samsung, their TV division is a huge earner as well as their smartphone division, and they often find themselves selling more units than most other major players in the TV world. Samsung is clearly good at making world-class displays of all shapes and sizes, and where their TV technology is concerned, this patent shows what the future of TVs could be, and it looks far more exciting and interactive than 3D did.
As discovered by Patently Mobile, Samsung have been awarded a patent for a holographic TV technology. According to this patent, Samsung have devised a system that would fire a laser lighting system from behind the TVs display itself to create an interference pattern, which, as it passes through the panel is then displayed correctly to the viewer. Where most TVs that would ship with 3D technology would rely on binocular parallax technology, Samsung seem to have gone to great lengths to drastically improve this sort of technology, and potentially creating a much, much better effect. To ensure that this technology works well for the viewer, no matter where theyre sat relative to the position of the TV, the patent goes on to describe an eye tracking unit which would make sure to display the hologram in the right way for the viewer to be able to enjoy it, relative to the content being played.
This is a very, very in-depth patent filing from Samsung, and while it doesnt guarantee that Samsung will be releasing such a product any time soon, these patents are important for a company like Samsung. The South Korean giant has been a major player in the TV world for decades now, and has often been instrumental in bringing new technologies to the TV world. As 3D failed to capture the excitement of viewers, and 4K is still struggling to find its feet, Samsung could be on the verge of introducing the next big thing in the world of TVs.
Donald Trump: 3 millions migrants, Farages Brex Pistols and a riot 58 floors up
Donald Trump continues to set the tabloid news agenda. (Well, that and the Im A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!).
The Mirror leads with Donal Trumps TV PLEDGE. Ha, indeed. Everything weve seen of Trump has been a TV pledge. Even the people watching the live show should admit Trumps words carry the legend as seen on TV.
I Will Kick Out 3 Million Migrants, runs the Trump telly pledge. The US President-elect will deport or jail up to three million illegal immigrants. Well, as soon as he gets a handle on the numbers, he can start building the prisons and fuelling the planes. Trump says its probably two million, it could even be three million. Why stop at three million? The answer could be because Trump understands media and that sound-bites are all. Save four million for a slow news day.
The Express hears the headline figure and muses on its front page: Trump to kick out 3million migrantsNow Britons asks: can we do the same? By Page 4 readers have an answer: UK backing for Trump to deport migrants.
The Express then produces a phone poll: Should Britain now send home all illegal migrants? Ah, not all migrants, as the front-page said. All illegal migrants. Having delivered a poll more loaded than Trumps can of hair lacquer, heard from three UKIP voices and one Tory, we leave the Express and look at the Suns front page. We see Nigel Farage, retired and re-instated UKIP leader ad nauseam. Farage humiliated the Government by saying it was in the national interest for him to broker any post-Brexit trade deal with the US, says the Sun.
Which nation is unspecified, but given the calibre of Farages dream team the Brex Pistols we cant rule out France.
On Page 4, the Sun reminds reader that Farage is not the countrys popularly elected leader. It says Theresa May who isnt either is Primer Minister. May will deliver a speech in which she promises to clamp down on rampant immigration. She will do this by:
a) Building a wall.
b) Surrounding the country with water (see Ice Age-induced Brexit)
c) Saying it clearly.
d) See what Trump does.
Its Trump and Farage on the Mails cover. Its a terrific photo of the two men stood before Trumps gold and diamond-encrusted front door. Over two pages, Andrew Pierce has the riotous inside story behind it. Farage and his four cohorts were mesmerised by Trumps flat. One of them called a Renoir on a wall magnificent. Another called an Eros statue striking.
And, er, thats it.
No riots.
They were outside.
Paul Sorene
Posted: 14th, November 2016 | In: Politicians, Reviews, Tabloids Comment (1) | TrackBack | Permalink
Israel proposes bill to ban mosque loudspeakers Abu Mazen says proposal could create rift in region
(ANSAmed) - TEL AVIV, NOVEMBER 14 - The government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has approved a bill that would ban mosque loudspeakers, which are used for the call to prayer.
Netanyahu said that Israel is "committed to ensuring freedom of worship for all religions but it also has the obligation to protect citizens from noise".
Palestinian President Abu Mazen said the proposal "risks sinking the region into a chasm", and his spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeina threatened to appeal to the UN Security Council.
From the Gaza Strip, Hamas spoke out against the bill, while Arab MPs in the Israeli Knesset said that a law banning excessive noise in public places already exists, so one specifically for mosques is unnecessary.
Meanwhile the bill, which would allow for exemptions on the ban under the discretion of local authorities, is set to move through the parliamentary process.(ANSAmed).
(ANSAmed) - BRUSSELS, NOVEMBER 14 - Italian Foreign Minister Paolo Gentiloni on Monday said the EU will open formal adhesion talks with Albania.
The 28 foreign ministers have expressed ''a consensus of all member states so that in the month of December the European Council can formally start Albania's adhesion talks with the EU'', said Italian foreign minister arriving at the council after a breakfast promoted by Italy and Austria with Albanian Premier Edi Rama in Brussels.
''It is an important result for which Italy has worked over these years with recent visits of the president of the Republic'', observed Gentiloni, stressing it is also a ''good sign of vitality'' for Europe ''in this moment in which it needs to confirm its ability to attract and consolidate''.
It is even more important for the Balkans, added Gentiloni, which ''need stability'' and are ''a region in which a very delicate match has always been played''. ''Albania is an Islamic-majority country'', concluded Gentiloni, adding that he considered a ''good sign of vitality'' the fact that, ''based on the opinion of the commission and the consensus attained this morning, there are the conditions to start formal adhesion talks''. (ANSAmed).
ISTANBUL - Turkish human rights layer Levent Piskin on Monday at dawn was arrested by police in his Istanbul home after visiting in prison the leader of the pro-Kurdish HDP Party, Selahattin Demirtas, who was among 10 MPs arrested last week in Turkey, the Association of lawyers for freedom (OHD) announced.
Piskin is a member of the group and a campaigner for the LGBTI movement.
The lawyer was accused by pro-government daily Sabah of ''terrorist propaganda'' after delivering to the German media a message Demirtas had sent from jail. The OHD is among the 370 organizations shut down Friday by the interior ministry on charges of being ''terrorist organizations'', based on a decree of the state of emergency issued after the failed coup on July 15.
Egypt: House Oks 3-month extension state of emergency Sinai
(ANSAmed) - CAIRO, NOVEMBER 14 - Egypt's House of Representatives on Sunday voted almost unanimously the decision of President Abdel Fattah al Sisi to extend by another three months the state of emergency in some regions of northern Sinai, Mena news agency reports. The lawmakers added that terrorist groups and takfiri (Islamic fundamentalists) are a danger for both security forces and civilians because they threaten the unity and security of the country. (ANSAmed).
More migrants land in Sardinia, five Algerians apprehended Tranferred by Carabinieri to hosting center
(ANSAmed) - CAGLIARI, NOVEMBER 14 - More migrants have reportedly landed on the coast of Sulcis, in Sardinia.
Carabinieri police apprehended five Algerians on Sunday afternoon.
A fisherman called police to report that a foreigner was in the area of port Tramatzu, in Teulada.
Carabinieri who arrived at the scene found the five men but no boat and are investigating the landing which allegedly occurred in spite of rough sea conditions.
The Algerian nationals are reportedly in good health and were moved to migrant hosting centers after being visited and identified. (ANSAmed).
ISTANBUL - Police stopped some students and used force to block a protest at Istanbul's Bosphorus University on Monday, where a new rector was appointed directly by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Erdogan named the new rector, professor Mehmed Ozkan, without considering the will of the campus's academics as required by a controversial state of emergency decree issued in late October.
Opposition daily Birgun said Ozkan is the brother of an MP in Erdogan's AK Party.
Outgoing rector Gulay Barbarosoglu had obtained 86% of the vote in an internal election in July, but announced his retirement after Erdogan appointed Ozkan.
Erdogan's direct appointment was contested in recent days by about 350 Bosphorus University academics, who pointed out that the regulation approved as part of the decree had been withdrawn from the parliamentary debate in August following strong controversy.
Ozkan, meanwhile, vowed to defend the university's "pluralistic tradition".
TEL AVIV - The Israeli government, against the opinion of Premier Benjamin Netanyahu, has approved a bill to start a retroactive amnesty of Jewish settlements on private Palestinian land in the West Bank.
The Knesset will now need to give the green light to the measure which risks to be highly controversial with the international community.
The move was strongly promoted by the leader of the religious nationalist party (close to settlers) Naftali Bennett who has clashed with Netanyahu over the issue, the country's prosecutor general Avichai Mandelblit and Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman. Netanyahu slammed it as an ''infantile and irresponsible'' act although members of his Likud party have voted in favor.
The measure, according to the media, only concerns Jewish settlements whose construction has involved the government and Palestinians who will be able to prove ownership of the contested land will get money as compensation.
According to some analysts, Netanyahu will do everything possible to halt the proposal in the Knesset.
Turkey: German minister visits, tension with EU on agenda Berlin's diplomacy chief arrives after arrests, Brussels report
(ANSAmed) - ISTANBUL, NOVEMBER 14 - German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier is expected Monday in Turkey for a two-day visit to discuss ''bilateral Turkey-Germany relations, the cooperation in the fight against terrorism and EU-Turkey relations, together with current regional and international issues'', according to a statement of the Turkish foreign ministry.
The visit comes at a moment of strong tension between Ankara and Brussels after a wave of arrests of journalists and Kurdish lawmakers and the publication of the EU annual report on the state of adhesion talks, rejected by Turkey as ''far from objective''. Yesterday, president Recep Tayyip Erdogan once again spoke about the possibility of a referendum to decide the future of negotiations that started in 2005, modelled after the Brexit vote. (ANSAmed).
Turkey: lawyer detained after visiting Demirtas in jail Human rights attorney arrested after meeting with Kurdish leader
(ANSAmed) - ISTANBUL, NOVEMBER 14 - Turkish human rights layer Levent Piskin on Monday at dawn was arrested by police in his Istanbul home after visiting in prison the leader of the pro-Kurdish HDP Party, Selahattin Demirtas, who was among 10 MPs arrested last week in Turkey, the Association of lawyers for freedom (OHD) announced.
Piskin is a member of the group and a campaigner for the LGBTI movement.
The lawyer was accused by pro-government daily Sabah of ''terrorist propaganda'' after delivering to the German media a message Demirtas had sent from jail. The OHD is among the 370 organizations shut down Friday by the interior ministry on charges of being ''terrorist organizations'', based on a decree of the state of emergency issued after the failed coup on July 15. (ANSAmed).
Donohoe, who serves on the foundation's Board of Governors, will discuss the pros and cons of automation in aviation and the importance of a "back to basics training approach."
Automation is one of several aspects of technology that will be explored during the industry's pre-eminent annual safety event. A number of presentations will look at new technology in avionics and the role it will play in enhancing safety in the air and on the ground. Included will be a presentation on next-generation flight safety systems.
Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) also will be the topic of much discussion. "The growth in the development, use and technological sophistication of UAS is almost unprecedented," said Greg Marshall, the Foundation's vice president, global programs. "While this new entrant into the aviation industry brings with it the promise of enhancing safety through the use of alternative technology, it is not without its own issues, especially with respect to integration into non-segregated airspace," he said.
Marshall, working with the Foundation's International Advisory Committee, played a key role in developing the agenda for IASS this year.
IASS 2016 also will feature, for the first time, a day-long parallel track dedicated to aviation maintenance and engineering (M&E) safety. The M&E track, which will be presented on Tuesday, will include sessions on fatigue risk management, maintenance line operations safety audits/assessments and engineering safety culture.
On-site registration will be available for both the full IASS programme and for the one-day M&E track.
The host sponsor for IASS 2016 is Emirates, a benefactor member of the Foundation, as well as one of the world's largest international carriers and most technically advanced operators. Emirates also is the official airline of the event. Other major sponsors include platinum level contributors Airbus, Boeing, Embraer and Rolls-Royce.
According to US Bangla team, the airline is objective to start operating daily flights to Muscat international Airport.
Muscat International Airport welcomed its first direct flight of US-Bangla Airlines on Saturday the 12 of November 2016. US-Bangla Airlines has been voted as the best domestic airline in Bangladesh in 2015. US Bangla Airlines will further connect to Kolkata, India, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Kathmandu, Nepal and several destinations of Bangladesh with a brief stopover in the country; offering passengers an option in Oman to other south Asian destinations.
US-Bangla Airlines (USBA) is an affiliate of the US-Bangla Group, located in Dhaka. The Airline started its journey in 2013 and in 2016 declared the operation of its first two Boeing 737-800 aircraft. It also launched its first international flights last May with its flights to Nepals Tribhuvan airport.
The city office of US-Bangla Airlines has also officially opened, in addition to US-Bangla Airlines appointing Travel Point LLC as its general sales agent (GSA) in Oman. The Airlines works in favor of the bigger community of Bangladesh nationals residing in the Sultanate of Oman. As an inaugural offer, US-Bangla Airlines is offering fares as low as OMR45 to Dhaka, Chittagong and Sylhet.
The addition of new direct flights to the Sultanate is a significant step towards OAMCs strategic goal of placing Oman Airports amongst the top 20 airports in the world by 2020.
goralikus/istock/Thinkstock(JERUSALEM) -- A bill to legalize Israeli settlements built on the privately-owned Palestinian land in the West Bank retroactively passed a ministerial committee on Sunday.
The bill would have to be approved by Parliament before it could become law, according to Israeli newspaper Haaretz. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, however, opposed its advancement. Israel's attorney general warned that he would find it difficult to defend the legislation in his own country's Supreme Court.
One illegal outpost, Amona, was ordered to be destroyed by December 25th by a lower court, prompting urgency on the part of Israel's pro-settlement camp.
Israel's expanded settlements have enraged Palestinians and been a source of tension with the Obama administration.
Copyright 2016, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
STEPANAKERT, NOVEMBER 12, ARMENPRESS-ARTSAKHPRESS. Dealing with Azerbaijan, we are dealing with a subject from whom possible adventurous steps are always expected, deputy foreign minister of Armenia Shavarsh Kocharyan said in an interview to ARTSAKHPRESS in Stepanakert, commenting on the Azerbaijani provocative actions in several parts of the line of contact since the morning of November 11.
April showed that Azerbaijans blitzkrieg failed and as opposed to its estimates the potential of the Armenian states was a lot bigger. Such actions of Baku only hinder the resumption of the negotiation process and, especially the initiation of the Vienna and St. Petersburg agreements. Similar premeditated practice of the Azerbaijani authorities doesnt leave an alternative to the status quo, which themselves often complain about. Otherwise they would have given the opportunity to initiate those agreements, Kocharyan said.
Speaking on the current stage of the negotiations process, Kocharyan noted that it should be divided into two platforms: One is the actual negotiations regarding settlement. Second negotiations, which are aimed at strengthening the ceasefire regime.
Today we are talking about the second platform, because as we have said multiple times, as long as there are shots, provocations, it is simply naivety to say that there can be progress in the negotiations. In this point of view these latest provocations once again hint that the Vienna agreements should be initiated as soon as possible.
Speaking about the possible upcoming bilateral meetings, Shavarsh Kocharyan particularly said: Anyhow we are talking about a meeting of the foreign ministers, and even if it happens, the emphasis will be what I just said.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. A new kindergarten, currently under construction, is the fourth major community-development project to be implemented by the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund in Karin Tak, a village in Nagorno Karabakhs Shushi Region.
In recent years, the fund has built Karin Taks multifunctional community center and new potable-water network, and completely renovated the local school gym. The construction of the kindergarten is co-sponsored by the Devejian and Ekserciyan families as well as Krikor Simsiroglu of Argentina, the Greek-Armenian and the Cypriot-Armenian communities, and the government of NKR.
Proceeds from the upcoming Phoneathon of the Hayastan All-Armenian Funds affiliate in Greece will likewise benefit the kindergarten-construction project. The future kindergarten is designed to accommodate up to 50 children. The facility will feature a complement of state-of-the-art amenities, including a boiler room, a central-heating system, and an outdoor playground with various play equipment, all of which will make for an enriching and comfortable learning environment. The structure is already up and the roof is finished. In the next phases of the project, crews will work on the exterior and interior decoration, the installation of the boiler room, and the landscaping of the grounds.
When completed in the summer of 2017, the campus will open its doors to the communitys 40 kindergarteners. Karin Tak has a population of over 650, with a large percentage of young people. According to Mayor Mkhitar Arushanyan, the necessity of a kindergarten has long been felt in the community, given its steady demographic growth. Our villagers feel a very strong bond with their native land, Arushanyan says. Even during the war years in the 1990s, when the village was under constant bombardment, our residents refused to abandon their birthplace. Today, thanks to a string of marvelous development projects, Karin Taks quality of life is improved significantly, and our residents have great faith in their future. Located five kilometers from the city of Shushi, Karin Tak was founded in the 18th century. It is among villages that were utterly devastated during NKR war of liberation. Every year on January 26, the residents of Karin Tak commemorate their communitys heroic battle and victory in 1992.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday picked Reince Priebus, a Washington insider who heads the Republican National Committee, as White House chief of staff, signaling a willingness to work with Congress to advance his agenda when he takes office in January, Reuters reports.
But while giving the influential post to the low-key Priebus, Trump handed another senior White House job to rabble-rousing conservative media figure Stephen Bannon, his campaign chairman who helped engineer his surprise victory on Tuesday over Democrat Hillary Clinton.
Priebus is a friend of U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan, who distanced himself from Trump during the campaign but embodies the Republican establishment in Washington and will play a critical role in shepherding Trump's agenda in Congress. Both Priebus and Ryan are from Wisconsin.
But Bannon, former head of the right-wing Breitbart News website, has been fiercely critical of Ryan.
Trump's statement announcing the appointments said Bannon and Priebus would be "working as equal partners to transform the federal government," with Bannon serving as chief strategist and senior counselor to the president.
The White House chief of staff serves as a gatekeeper and agenda-setter for the president, but Trump's statement mentioned Bannon's job first.
"I am thrilled to have my very successful team continue with me in leading our country," Trump said in a statement. "Steve and Reince are highly qualified leaders who worked well together on our campaign and led us to a historic victory. Now I will have them both with me in the White House."
Before joining Trump's team, Bannon spearheaded Breitbart's shift into a forum for the "alt-right," a loose online confederation of neo-Nazis, white supremacists and anti-Semitics. Bannon's hiring by Trump's campaign this year signaled the businessman's dedication to operating outside the norms of Washington.
Under Bannon's leadership, the Breitbart site presented a number of conspiracy theories about Clinton as well as Republicans deemed to be lacking in conservative bona fides.
Critics have accused Bannon of harboring anti-Semitic and white nationalist sentiments. In a 2007 court filing during divorce proceedings, Bannon's former wife accused him of making anti-Semitic comments on at least three occasions.
As head of Breitbart, he repeatedly attacked the Republican Party establishment including Ryan, alienating many veteran Republicans. Bannon showed his willingness to engage in brutal political tactics when he instigated the appearance before a presidential debate of three women who said they had been sexually abused by his Democratic rival's husband, former President Bill Clinton.
Trump, who will succeed Democratic President Barack Obama on Jan. 20, has been contemplating the candidates for top jobs in the White House and in various Cabinet positions since Tuesday's victory.
Priebus' appointment could anger some hardline Trump supporters who were counting on Trump to keep his campaign promise to "drain the swamp" of business-as-usual Washington insiders.
Priebus is a longtime Wisconsin political operative who was credited with marshaling party resources for Trump's White House bid. The Republican National Committee stepped in and ran most of the party's get-out-the-vote effort this year in the absence of such an operation by the Trump campaign.
While some Republicans fled from Trump during the campaign, Priebus was unwavering in his backing for the New York real estate developer.
Priebus frequently traveled with Trump on the campaign trail and was seen as a positive force who helped rein in the unpredictable Trump in the closing weeks. Trump made his high regard for Priebus known on election night when he pulled him to the microphone to take a bow for his campaign efforts.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has accused the head of the European Parliament of defending the PKK after the latter criticized the detention of journalists and opposition lawmakers on terror charges, Anadolu reports.
They are defending the PKK very well. Was there any statement from Schulz and those who think like him after our governor was martyred? Cavusoglu told reporters when asked about the European Parliaments President Martin Schulzs earlier remarks on arrests targeting journalists and lawmakers.
The Turkish minister was referring to Muhammet Fatih Safiturk, the governor of Mardin's Derik district, who succumbed Friday to wounds sustained in a PKK attack.
[Martin] Schulzs threatening statements have no effect on us, Cavusoglu told reporters in the Turkish capital Ankara following a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.
First, [he] should stop the activities of the PKK in the European Parliament, Cavusoglu said.
If he is strong enough, he should be using this discourse against those supporting terror in the EU member countries, he added.
The Turkish minister said that Schulz would do whatever was necessary to impose economic sanctions against Turkey.
Earlier this month, Martin Schulz, the European Parliaments president, reacted to the arrest of 11 journalists from the Cumhuriyet daily in Istanbul and Ankara as well as the arrest of lawmakers from Turkey's opposition Peoples Democratic Party (HDP) on terror charges.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. US President-elect Donald Trump says his plan on fighting the Islamic State will remain undisclosed, Trump said in an interview aired on CBS on November 13.
Trump categorically refused to give any details on his anti-ISIS strategy.
Donald Trump also said the battle for Mosul is very hard, because the White House had initially announced about the offensive.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. The Parliament of Armenia discusses the draft law on the compensation of the damage caused to life or health of servicemen during the military operations, reports Armenpress.
Defense Minister Vigen Sargsyan said the law aims to form a special system which will ensure the compensation of the damages caused to the life or health of servicemen while defending Armenia, participating in military operations or while on military service in the line of contact.
The current law regulates the relations in connection with the compensation of the damages caused to the life or health of servicemen as a result of military operations, as well as the procedure and conditions for establishment and activity of the compensation fund, the Minister said.
He said the beneficiaries are the servicemen whose life or health has been damaged as a result of military operations. Servicemans being killed or missing is considered as damage caused to his life, and the servicemans loss of ability to work as a result of received injury is considered as damage to his health. If serviceman is killed or is missing, in this case his spouse, child, parents are considered as beneficiary.
The special fund is going to be the base of the proposed system which will unite the state and public funds, will ensure the professional management of these funds, as well as the compensation of damages caused to the life or health of the servicemen in the expense of the allocated funds. The fund will operate under certain key principles. In particular, the collection of fees and the insurance compensations must be simple and perceivable for every citizen, they must be managed based on the professional asset management calculations. The system must be transparent in order to receive the necessary trust from the system, the Minister said adding that the compensation funds will be transferred for incidents that will be registered after January 28, 2017.
In case of death or having 1st degree disability a lump-sum 10 million AMD will be compensated. In case of 2nd degree disability a lump-sum 5 million AMD will be compensated. Thereafter, there will be monthly payments. In case of officers deaths or 1st degree disability 300.000 AMD will be compensated, in case of 2nd degree disability 200.000 AMD. 250.000 AMD and 150.000 AMD respectively will be compensated for the corporal staff, 200.000 AMD and 100.000 AMD respectively will be compensated for the privates, the Minister said.
He also presented the sources for the Funds financial resources. He said the financial resources will be formed from monthly 1000 AMDs of each of employees salaries, from the sales of securities, as well as from grants and donations provided for that purpose.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. Head of the Armenian Diocese of Germany Archbishop Garegin Bekchian , who is one of the probable candidates of the Armenian Patriarch of Istanbul, says the Patriarch election process must be carried out in more convenient conditions, Bekchian told Agos.
The mistakes of the past and unacceptable stances must be forgotten, he said.
The Archbishop suggests attaching a new guideline to the letter to Turkish authorities, which will be in line with traditions. Bekchian also proposed the 4 candidates to meet for exchange of views.
I would like to pass this proposals through you to Aram Ateshyan. Since in my opinion the success of the Patriarchal election is the dream of all of us. I think harmony and prosperity can be achieved only by this path, he said.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. The board of trustees of the Fund, which will be established for the compensation of servicemen fallen or who became disabled during the military service, will work exclusively on a public/voluntary basis, Defense Minister of Armenia Vigen Sargsyan said in the Parliament, in response to Rule of Law faction MP Hovhannes Margaryans question, reports Armenpress.
No salary will be provided in the first stage of the Funds formation. The Board of Trustees is working exclusively on a public/voluntary basis. Except from the Government representatives, the involvement of civil society representatives in the Board of Trustees is aimed at increasing the transparency, strengthening the trust, the Minister said, commenting on the MPs view that it is possible to leave the Funds management on the Ministries of Defense and Labor and Social Affairs, and the maintenance costs of the Board of Trustees to direct to the Fund.
Vigen Sargsyan said the Central Bank has already agreed to manage the assets for 5 years for free and without taking funds from the Funds resources.
We have defined by law that all overhead costs cannot exceed half a percent of the all managed funds. These thresholds are clearly set, the Minister said.
The Board of Trustees will be comprised of 9 members. There will be three representatives from the Armenian Government, three from the Central Bank and three from the civic society.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. The Russian Defense Ministry has affirmed the crash of its MIG-29 jet in the Mediterranean. Armenpress reports, citing Ria Novosti, the Russian Defense Ministry also mentioned that the pilot of the jet has ejected and there are no risks with his health.
Earlier, international media had informed that a Russian fighter jet crashed in the Mediterranean Sea shortly after launching from its aircraft carrier near the coast of Syria.
The Russian MiG-29 fighter jet took off from their aircraft carrier, Admiral Kuznetsov. Once airborne, the Russian jet appeared to have mechanical difficulties and turned around in the direction of the aircraft carrier.
The Russian jet splashed down in the water while attempting to land. A Russian rescue helicopter picked up a parachute and the pilot. The pilot's status was unclear, U.S. intelligence officials had said.
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Watchdog expects directors to protect stakeholders.
Mumbai: The capital market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) is closely monitoring the current feud between Tata Sons and Cyrus Mistry with both the camp fighting it out in the open to wrest the management control of listed Tata group firms.
While Cyrus Mistry was removed as the chairman of the Tata Sons, he continues to remain chairman in several listed Tata group firms.
According to sources familiar with the development, the regulator is more concerned with the protection of the interest of public shareholders and alleged violations of corporate governance norms. The regulator is keeping a close tab on the developments happening at the board level as well as at the extraordinary meeting of shareholders convened by Tata Sons seeking the removal of Mr Mistry from the board.
Sebi has also received representations from several institutional investors, investors associations and corporate governance firms.
Last week, TCS ousted Mr Mistry as chairman and appointed Ishaat Hussain in his place.
However, Mistrys camp retorted saying that the due process of law wasnt followed while removing and appointing a new chairman.
Additionally, Tata Sons had issued a notice for convening an extraordinary meeting of shareholders of Tata Steel and Tata Motors for the removal of Mr Mistry and Nusli N Wadia from the board of the respective firms.
The ongoing tussle gained further momentum after a section of the independent directors of Indian Hotels and Tata Chemical affirmed their faith in the leadership of Mr Mistry and the current management team.
The real issue is of allegations and counter allegations, questions on governance, independence and so on. All issues must be clarified by Tata, as the investors, stakeholders and regulators need to know the truth. Not only this, the reputation of Tata brand is at stake now. And they are duty bound to their stakeholders to bring the facts out so as to minimise damage, said J.N. Gupta, MD at Stakeholders Empowerment Services, a corporate governance firm.
The government also announced that a large number of micro-ATMs will be deployed across the country.
New Delhi: The Finance Ministry on Monday announced that ATMs across the country will start dispensing higher denomination currency, including the new Rs 2,000 note, from either today or tomorrow.
The focus of the Govt is to activate all channels whereby cash is dispensed to the public, said Shaktikanta Das, Economic Affairs Secretary, while addressing a press conference in the national capital.
To ease the problems of the common man, the government also announced that a large number of micro-ATMs will be deployed across the country to cater to the millions lining up for cash. Das said that higher cash withdrawal limit of Rs 2,500 would only be for recalibrated ATMs.
"Number of recalibrated ATMs will be enhanced within the next few days, a task force is being set up under the Deputy RBI Governor," Das said. RBI has informed enough cash is available in system, there is no need for panic; situation will ease in coming days, he added.
He announced that banking correspondents will be now allowed to withdraw cash multiple times as opposed to only once a day earlier. Banks will also be increasing the cash holding limit of banking correspondents to Rs 50,000.
The proposal to amend the provisions dealing with Christian marriages is yet to be cleared by the Cabinet.
New Delhi: Christian couples wait for two years to seek divorce by a mutual consent may soon end as the government has put the Divorce (Amendment) Bill, 2016, in the tentative list of government legislative and financial business, which means it is expected to be taken up during the Winter Session of Parliament beginning November 16. The law is set to be amended to lower the requisite separation period to one year following persistent demand from the community.
The proposal to amend the provisions dealing with Christian marriages is yet to be cleared by the Cabinet. According to the law ministry proposal, the Divorce Act, 1869, would be amended to halve the separation period for couples from the present two years before they can file for divorce by a mutual consent to bring it at par with laws governing other communities. The separation period under the Hindu Marriage Act, Parsi Marriage and Divorce Act and the Special Marriage Act is one year.
The Section 10A(1) of the Divorce Act, added through an amendment in 2001, says that a couple seeking divorce should be living separately for two years or more.
Against the backdrop of a Supreme Court order in April 2015 and persistent demands from the community, the law ministry has decided to move the proposal to reduce the separation period. Questioning the existing law, the Supreme Court had urged the Centre to make necessary amendments.
Should Christians stay separated for minimum two years when the period prescribed for others is one year? It does not make sense to us. It is a pure question of law and you (government) should have acted on your own, a bench of Justices Vikramjit Sen and A.M. Sapre had observed. The bench delivered the order on a petition filed by a Delhi resident. Some high courts have also struck down the provision of the two-year separation period. The ministry has also proposed another amendment in the law to enable any of the spouses living in India to file for divorce.
As of now, both husband and wife should be living in India when the petition for dissolution of marriage is moved.
Also, if the law is amended, then it will allow a woman to move the divorce petition in the district court in whose jurisdiction she ordinarily resides. As per the existing provisions, a petition can be filed only where the marriage was solemnised or where the couple reside or last resided together. In the past, the Law Commission had recommended amendments to the Divorce Act to make it more women-friendly.
The meeting at Prime Minister's residence was attended by Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with senior ministers past midnight on Sunday to review demonetisation and its impact.
The meeting at Prime Minister's residence was attended by Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, I&B Minister Venkaiah Naidu, Power, Coal and Mines Minister Piyush Goyal and top officials of the Finance ministry.
The meeting came amid continuing chaos and growing public anger across the country over limited cash availability following the surprise demonetisation of two higher value currency notes by Modi.
There was little respite for cash-starved people queueing up outside banks and ATMs yesterday, with branches witnessing unprecedented rush since early morning and leading to arguments and scuffles.
Earlier in the evening, after a review by Finance ministry, the limit of old and now defunct Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 rupee notes that can be exchanged for freshly minted Rs. 2000 and new Rs. 500 notes was increased from Rs. 4000 to Rs. 4500 per day.
Cash withdrawal limit at ATMs was hiked to Rs. 2,500 from Rs. 2,000 a day.
The weekly limit of Rs. 20,000 for withdrawal from bank counters has been increased to Rs. 24,000. The maximum limit of Rs. 10,000 per day on such withdrawals has been removed, the ministry said in a statement.
General Sharif ordered his troops to effectively respond to firing by Indian forces across the LoC.
Pakistan army soldiers gather at a forward area post on the Line of Control (LOC), that divides Kashmir between Pakistan and India, in Tatta Pani. (Photo: AP)
Islamabad/Srinagar/New Delhi: In a rare admission of casualties since India carried out surgical strikes against terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, the Pakistani Army said on Monday that seven of its soldiers were killed by Indian cross-border shelling overnight Sunday.
Seven soldiers embraced shahadat at the LoC in the Bhimber sector in a ceasefire violation by Indian troops late last night, a statement issued in Islamabad by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said. It added that Pakistani troops responded to unprovoked Indian firing effectively, and that the Indian side had suffered major casualties.
The Pakistan foreign secretary later summoned the Indian high commissioner and condemned the unprovoked ceasefire violation that resulting in the death of seven Pakistani soldiers. He emphasised that this belligerent attitude of Indian forces was a serious threat to regional peace and security and a strategic miscalculation.
Hours after Pakistans statement, the Indian Army and police in Jammu said that an Army jawan was injured as Pakistani troops resorted to heavy unprovoked firing in the Rajouri and Poonch areas along LoC on Monday afternoon. They identified the injured soldier as 9 Paras commando Vinay Davrai (27), a resident of Uttarakhand.
Intense firing was reported between the Indian and Pakistani troops from different sectors along the LoC and the International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to news agency reports from Islamabad, Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif expressed profound grief and sorrow over the loss of precious human lives in the LoC firing, but asserted that his country is fully capable of defending its territory against any aggression.
Mr Sharif said in a statement that Indian forces are trying to divert attention from the Kashmir issue by creating tension at the LoC. It is extremely unfortunate that Indian forces have continuously violated ceasefire agreement at LoC, in the recent days The Indian Forces have resorted to escalating tension on LoC only to detract the worlds attention from the grave human rights situation in Kashmir, he said.
There is an indigenous uprising against Indian rule, and the Indian government is failing to read the writing on the wall, added Pakistani Prime Minister.
Pakistani defence minister Khawaja Asif sought to escalate the provocative rhetoric by saying it was regrettable that certain extremist elements which had come into power in India could become a source of destruction not only for their own country but the whole region.
In Jhelum, Pakistan, Army chief Raheel Sharif offered Nimaz-e-Janaza (funeral prayers) for the soldiers after which their bodies were carried to their hometowns.
The deceased soldiers were identified as Hawaldar Zafar Hussain and Ibrar Ahmad Awan, Lance Naik Muhammad Shaukat, Lance Naik Muhammad Halim, Sepoy Pervaiz, Sepoy Muhammad Ilyas and Sepoy Muhammad Tanveer. Their photographs, in uniform, were released to the Pakistani media.
Later on, General Sharif ordered his troops to effectively respond to firing by Indian forces across the LoC. In Srinagar, India, a defence spokesman said that the Army foiled an infiltration bid by militants along the LoC in Nowgam sector of Kashmir Valleys Kupwara sector on Monday.
The LoC and the IB have witnessed intense clashes between facing troops ever since Indian Army conducted surgical strikes across the LoC on September 29, leaving dozens of soldiers, border guards and civilians dead and injured on both sides. Also, thousands of border-dwellers have migrated to safer locations because of escalating tensions and skirmishes.
Earlier on November 10, Pakistans foreign secretary had summoned the Indian high commissioner and condemned the continued unprovoked firing that he said was in violation of the 2003 Ceasefire Understanding and the international law.
He observed that indiscriminate firing and shelling from the Indian side deliberately targeting villages and civilians in the area had, in the last two months, resulted in the deaths of 26 people and injuries to 107, including women and children.
The secretary deplored the use of artillery by the Indian forces in Shahkot and Jura sectors on the LoC on November 9, 2016, and said that such weaponry had been used after 13 years, emphasising Indias intention to further escalate tensions.
BULLET FOR THE TURN
The J&K government on Monday announced that nearly 200 schools closed in the borders areas of Poonch, Rajouri, Jammu, Kathua and Samba districts last month will reopen on Tuesday.
Economic affairs secretary Shaktikanta Das said that ATMs are expected to start dispensing Rs 2,000 notes as soon as Tuesday.
People standing in a long queue to exchange their old Rs 500 and 1000 notes outside RBI headquarters in New Delhi. (Photo: PTI)
New Delhi: The finance ministry on Monday announced that small businesses can withdraw Rs 50,000 in a week from banks (to allow them to pay wages), set up a task force under RBI deputy governor S.S. Mundra to ensue that ATMs are recalibrated fast and increased cash holding limit of banking correspondents to at least Rs 50,000.
The announcement of these and other new measures, aimed at making life a little easier for citizens and businesses struggling since Prime Minister Modi announced demonetisation of high-denomination currency notes, came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a review meeting on Sunday that lasted past midnight.
Following the meeting, RBI ordered banks to waive all types of ATM charges on saving bank customers from November 10 to 30 December, 2016. Banks will not charge any levy irrespective of the number of ATM transactions by saving bank customers at any branch during this period. The finance ministry also extended use of old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes for paying household utility bills, fuel, taxes and fees as well as purchase from co-operative stores till November 24 midnight. Railways too extended the use of old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes to purchase tickets and for onboard catering till November 24.
To facilitate the smooth movement of passengers, collection of parking charges at all airports, including Delhi and Hyderabad, has been suspended till midnight of November 21, 2016. And for easy and fast movement of trucks and other vehicles, the government has extended the no toll at national highways measure till November 18.
Economic affairs secretary Shaktikanta Das said that ATMs are expected to start dispensing Rs 2,000 notes as soon as Tuesday.
Mr Das said that banking correspondents will now be allowed to replenish cash multiple times in a day against the earlier limit of once a day so that people in rural areas are able to get cash. During the meeting with the PM it was decided that supply of cash to post offices will be enhanced to facilitate cash withdrawals from postal accounts. With 1.2 lakh BCs and 1.3 lakh branch post offices getting further activated, a total number of 2.5 lakh points in rural areas will be available to disburse cash and facilitate cash withdrawals from bank accounts, said Mr Das.
Till all ATMs are recalibrated, micro ATMs will be deployed to dispense cash against debit or credit cards up to the cash limits applicable for ATMs. As micro ATMs are mostly handheld, they will allow banks to deploy them at places where there is huge need for cash, including hospitals.
Mr Das said adequate cash will be made available with District Central Co-operative Banks (DCCBs) to facilitate withdrawal from existing accounts.
All Central government departments and public sector enterprises are being instructed to use the method of e-payments to the maximum extent possible so that there is less pressure on banks for cash.
The MTP Act in India came into existence in 1971 and was amended in 2003 to facilitate better access to women.
To make it easier for women to seek safe abortion, the government has also suggested doing away with the necessity of second opinion. (Photo: Pixabay) (Representational image)
New Delhi: In a move that somewhat recognises a womans right over her own body, the Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA government has suggested that the right to safe and legal abortion should be available to all women in India, irrespective of their marital status. The existing Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act recognises and caters only to sexually active married women.
In a set of proposed amendments to the MTP Bill likely to come to the Cabinet soon the Union health ministry has also suggested increasing the limit of abortion from 20 to 24 weeks in cases of vulnerable women, including rape survivors and disabled women, and recommended that abortion beyond the stipulated time be allowed in cases were the foetus suffers from substantial abnormalities. In all other cases abortions beyond 20 weeks wont be allowed.
Recognising a womans agency over her body and the growing reality of sexually active single, unmarried women, the health ministry in their draft bill recommended making abortion legal for all sexually active women in case of unplanned pregnancy or in case of contraceptive failure. While it is easier for married women to opt for abortion, single women often land in unsafe hands. It has been proposed that all sexually active women be covered under the Act. The idea is to make it women centric, sources said. The change in law is bound to free Indias betis a little more, while taking the moral sting out of visits to gynecology. The health ministry has proposed that homeopaths, midwives be allowed to carry out non invasive abortion procedures.
As per the proposal, except unani doctors, all ANMs, nurses, midwives working in the system should be allowed to carry out non invasive-abortions, sources added.
To make it easier for women to seek safe abortion, the government has also suggested doing away with the necessity of second opinion. As per the existing Act, it is mandatory to seek second opinion.
In the draft bill, the government has suggested that a single opinion is enough for seeking abortion in first and second trimester. Earlier, second opinion was mandatory for abortion. The government has decided to do away with it, sources further said.
According to figures available with the government, out of the six million abortions consucted every year in the country, 55-60 per cent are unsafe, with younger population being the usual prey to the complications. Unsafe abortions contribute to 8.8 per cent of the total maternal deaths.
The MTP Act in India came into existence in 1971 and was amended in 2003 to facilitate better access to women.
China has also reiterated its commitment not to allow any terrorist activities from its soil.
Guwahati: In what may have a cascading effect on the insurgency scenario in the Northeast region, India and China have signed an agreement to share real-time intelligence to combat terrorism jointly.
Home ministry security sources told this newspaper the two sides had agreed to continue a dialogue on their differences over some key bilateral issues, while the formal agreement has operationalised a mechanism to combat terrorist activities. Joint Intelligence Committee chairman R.N. Ravi, who was involved in working out the pact, said: India and China have differences on several fronts, but both are aware that no country can survive without cooperation on issues of common interest.
The sources said China was apprised of the presence of elusive Ulfa(I) chief Paresh Baruah in its frontier province, while China had sought Indias help to identify the terrorist leaders holed up in that country, and added that they expect some action soon. China has also reiterated its commitment not to allow any terrorist activities from its soil. The sources said while India had strongly opposed Chinas construction of a corridor through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, such contentious issues would not come in the way of cooperation on the terrorism front.
Mr Rivlin arrived on Monday on an eight-day visit to India, the first by any Israeli President in nearly two decades.
New Delhi: Friendship between India and Israel is at work day in, day out and is not a relationship we should be hiding, said Israeli President Reuven Rivlin as he pledged full support to India in fighting terrorism. Mr Rivlin arrived on Monday on an eight-day visit to India, the first by any Israeli President in nearly two decades.
Mr Rivlin, who is accompanied by a strong delegation of businessmen, will hold comprehensive talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday on key bilateral and regional issues.
The Israeli President acknowledged differences with India on the Palestinian issue but spoke warmly about the growing Indo- Israeli ties as the two countries prepare to celebrate 25 years of establishment of full diplomatic ties between them next year. Pledging full support to India in fighting terrorism, Mr Rivlin said that his country was proud to stand with India in its defence of the values of democracy.
Terror is terror is terror, whoever carries it out and whoever are its victims. And we all have the duty to condemn in our words, and fight with our deeds against this terrible evil, asserted the President, whose country is one of the biggest suppliers of defence equipment to India and is cooperating with it in a major way in dealing with terrorism.
Answering a question on murmurs in Israel that India keeps under wraps their relationship because of close ties with the Arab world and domestic political considerations, Mr Rivlin said, Israel is proud of our friendship with India and I believe India is proud of its friendship with Israel. This is a friendship that we see at work day in, day out..., he said.
It is learnt that the Prime Minister expressed his annoyance over the delay of the project during a review meeting a few days ago.
New Delhi: Cabinet secretary P.K. Sinha will be holding a high-level meeting on November 17 with the chief secretaries of Delhi and Uttar Pradesh to take stock of the ongoing Rs 1,658 crore Dasna-Meerut six-lane connector under the Delhi-Meerut Expressway project. Despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi laying the foundation stone of the Delhi-Meerut Expressway in December last year, the construction work of the project has not started so far. It is learnt that the Prime Minister expressed his annoyance over the delay of the project during a review meeting a few days ago. The Prime Minister has reportedly made it clear to the NHAI officials that they should not have laid the foundation stone in a hurry if the project was not ready for takeoff.
A source said that the Cabinet secretary has called a meeting of all stakeholders, including chief secretaries of Delhi and UP, to take stock of the ongoing project. Some land related issues, which have been reported, need to be sorted out on a priority so that the work is not hampered. Reports suggest that the NHAI has not taken any prior approval from the National Green Tribunal for the construction of a bridge over Yamuna for the expressway project.
The ambitious Delhi-Meerut Expressway project, aimed at decongesting traffic in the national capital, proposes construction of four stretches including Nizamuddin bridge to UP border, UP border to Dasna, and Dasna to Hapur. Once fully operational, the 96-km Expressway will provide a safe and smooth transit for commuters between Delhi and Meerut.
The Delhi portion is being constructed by the concessionaire, Welspun Delhi-Meerut Expressway Pvt. Ltd. Meanwhile, in Hapur, road construction machineries have been deployed by the concessionaire, Apco Chetak Expressway Pvt. Ltd. The environment ministry has given clearance to NHAIs proposal to construct a greenfield alignment of Delhi-Meerut Expressway from Dasna to Meerut and the six-lane connector. The proposed Dasna-Meerut alignment has been approved, though subject to certain conditions. The Prime Minister had laid the foundation stone at Sector-62 in Noida on December 31, 2015.
The total length of the entire expressway will be 105.45 km and the construction has been divided into three stages.
The tests havent been possible as the hospitals refused to accept the fee in old currencies of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500.
New Delhi: For last four days, Nathuni Ojha, a resident of Rohtas in Bihar, is running from one bank to another to get his old currency notes exchanged in order to carry out the treatment of his wife.
Mr Ojha was in the national capital to follow up of his wifes treatment. She had undergone heart surgery in 2014 at a leading hospital in Faridabad. Due to demonetisation of currency notes of higher values, some crucial tests of my wife has been delayed and we are left with no money in the national capital, said Mr Ojha.
According to Mr Ojha, doctors had called his wife, Patiraji Devi, for a follow up of her heart surgery held in 2014 and recommended few tests to check proper functioning of her heart. His misery started as soon as the government demonetised currency notes of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500.
As soon as we reached the hospital for the follow up treatment of my wife, doctors, after seeing the records and after a discussion with me and my wife, asked us to get a few test done to check the progress. But the tests havent been possible as the hospitals refused to accept the fee in old currencies of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500. They suggested me to get the old currencies exchanged at any of the banks and deposit the fee to get the test done, he said. Acting on the suggestion of the hospital administration, Mr Ojha went to get his money exchanged at the bank. First of all I went to Canara Bank and saw a long line of almost a kilometer. After a failed attempt at the Canara Bank, I went to SBI and the condition was no different from the previous one. Next day, I once again waited for hours in a long queue to get the money exchanged and the result was same. I failed to get my money exchanged even with several attempts at different branches from Delhi to Faridabad, added Mr Ojha.
Some shopkeepers have been giving tips to beggars, fakirs and eunuchs to get change.
Mumbai: Most people have been inconvenienced by the abrupt demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, but the move has proven profitable for some cell phone shop owners from Goregaon and Borivali, who are accepting these notes on the purchase of the recently released iPhone 7.
On the other hand, facing a paucity of smaller denomination notes, some shopkeepers have been giving tips to beggars, fakirs and eunuchs to get change. The latter, however, are struggling to make ends meet.
The iPhone 7, which costs around Rs 60,000 for the 32GB version and around Rs 75,000 for the 128GB and 256GB versions, seems to be flying of the shelves after Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes were discontinued.
The Asian Age spoke to a few shop owners, who refused to speak on record but admitted they were selling off iPhone 7s as they were in demand from people who wanted to get rid off their Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes. The phones are being sold at an approximate value of Rs 60,000 per piece.
Customers who had bought the smartphones unanimously said it was due to the heavy discounts offered to them by the shop owners and their acceptance of the illegal notes. Anees Shaikh, a Juhu resident who bought an iPhone 7 on Friday, said, Buying an iPhone is better than spending time in queues outside an ATM.
One customer, who sought anonymity, bought seven iPhones from a Vasai shop. I had no plan to buy a new phone but since the shopkeeper, a trusted person, contacted us informing that he was accepting the banned notes, as well as offering a discount, I decided to buy a phone for all of my cousins and myself, he said.
Meanwhile, eunuchs and beggars told The Asian Age that they said they were not willing to part with their earnings despite being in high demand.
Durga, a eunuch, said, Shopkeepers are approaching us, but we need change ourselves. Some of us do not have a bank account. How will they manage with Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes?
Tulsiram, a beggar, elaborating on his plight, said, We have been given big tips to produce change. But now we are in trouble since we lack smaller denominations. Even we have families. We need to buy food to survive.
The owner of a small Dadar-based shop, Sanjay Rai, said, We have been asking beggars and a few people for change but they arent parting with it.
Both India and Japan seem to have shown flexibility to ensure a positive outcome.
In todays multipolar world stamped by an asymmetrical power distribution, Tokyo and New Delhi figure on every analysts list of major power centres. The relationship between the two nations impacts the Asian power balance, in the backdrop of Chinas economic and military rise and a marked tendency to assert itself. Hence, Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Japan, November 11-12, was imbued with considerable significance.
The visit was the occasion for the third India-Japan annual summit during the Modi governments two and a half-year-long tenure so far. With the two Prime Ministers having met for the eighth time, the relationship has advanced noticeably in this period. The question to ponder is as to what additionality was achieved in Tokyo last week.
It has produced tangible results. The most salient gain is the conclusion of the agreement for cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. This was pending for several years, causing much uncertainty. It now opens the way for cooperation involving Indian, American and Japanese companies in the field of civil nuclear cooperation. Both India and Japan seem to have shown flexibility to ensure a positive outcome. Besides, nine other agreements and MoUs were signed covering diverse fields. The future of Japan-India partnership, Mr Modi stated, is rich and robust.
Another notable feature is the progress registered on one of the mega projects, namely the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail project. Consultancy work is set to begin next month; construction will commence in end 2018, and the operation starts in 2023.
The 58-para joint statement, issued on November 11, is significant for its several elements. It highlights the synergy between Indias Act East Policy and Japans Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy. The partnership between India and Japan brings peace, stability and balance in the region. The para on countering terrorism is very strong and explicit, with India and Japan calling on Pakistan to bring to justice the perpetrators of terrorist attacks in Mumbai in November 2008 and in Pathankot in 2016. India reciprocated this by showing ample sensitivity to Japans need for security in its neighbourhood. It joined the Japanese government in condemning in the strongest terms North Koreas continuing development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes.
With the right protocol followed, the C word does not figure anywhere in the joint statement, but many of its paragraphs will be of special interest to Beijing. One in particular is directly addressed to it where India and Japan speak clearly about the commitment to respecting freedom of navigation etc., based on the principles of international law. Specifically, on the South China Sea, the two countries have called on all parties to show utmost respect to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and to resolve the disputes by peaceful means.
Post visit, India-Japan relations need to be assessed from two principal perspectives, namely of the recent history and the changing geopolitics in Asia.
First, the backdrop of developments in the past one and a half decades confirms an ascending trajectory. Since PM Yoshiro Moris visit to India in 2000, the two nations began shaping what they called a global partnership. During PM Manmohan Singhs 10-year long innings, the concept evolved significantly as the two governments, with Shinzo Abe as PM in Japan, upgraded the relationship to global and strategic partnership in 2006.
The year 2014 was of special significance. Mr Abe, PM again, visited India in January to hold discussions with the Manmohan Singh government, following the maiden visit of Emperor Akihito in end 2013. A few months after Mr Abes visit, PM Modi visited Japan, his first foreign tour outside South Asia. This is when the relationship was elevated to the special strategic and global partnership. Mr Abe was in India again in December 2015 to craft, along with the Modi government, the India-Japan Vision 2025 that reflected the shared view of a long-term strategy towards peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific Region and the world. The Modi-Abe discussions in Tokyo last week revealed a deep sense of mutual satisfaction over the current state of cooperation, with its twin focus on strategic and economic facets.
Second, the changing dynamics of Asian geopolitics make it evident that Chinas assertive policies since 2009, particularly on the South China Sea/East China Sea issues, reached a new watermark in 2016. With the US preoccupied with its presidential election and developments in other regions, President Barack Obama came up with a weak-kneed strategic response. The US policy of pivot/rebalancing proved ineffectual.
Consequently, Asean went into a disarray. Smaller countries (viz. Laos and Cambodia) chose to join the China camp. The Philippines performed its own pivot, announcing its separation from the US. Other member-states hunkered down, beset with anxiety as well as an instinct to explore accommodation with Beijing. One thus sees the contours of an emerging alliance of angst, with Japan, India, Vietnam, Indonesia, Australia and probably South Korea as its key constituents.
How does the US view the fast changing geopolitical scenario in East Asia? We will have to wait for a few months to know the answer. President-elect Donald Trump has been ambiguous in articulating his Asian view and his likely China policy. His constant refrain during the election campaign about making Japan pay for its security and about getting back US jobs that were lost to China and India, will now face a reality check.
Experts are agreed that, given Indias strengthened relations with the US and Japan and escalating tensions in Chinas relations with India and Japan, Asias largest democracy India and the oldest and most prosperous democracy Japan are natural partners. The Tokyo summit last week was a confident step in guiding the two nations towards the desired direction.
He also said he stood by his pledge to build a wall on the Mexican border -- although he said it could include some fencing.
But he made clear in excerpts of Sunday's interview that he still intended to crack down on the undocumented, focusing on people with criminal records. (Photo: AP)
New York: Donald Trump plans to immediately deport or jail as many as three million undocumented immigrants, the Republican said Sunday as he set out his priorities as America's head of state in the first television interview since his election.
Millions were expected to tune in to Trump's full interview with CBS's "60 Minutes" for clues on how the populist billionaire will govern, and how far he intends to convert his firebrand slogans into hard and fast policy.
Since Tuesday's shock election triumph, Trump had appeared to tone down his rhetoric, notably suggesting he might be willing to reconsider a pledge to scrap President Barack Obama's signature health reform.
But he made clear in excerpts of Sunday's interview that he still intended to crack down on the undocumented, focusing on people with criminal records.
"What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people -- probably two million, it could be even three million -- we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate," Trump said.
He also said he stood by his pledge to build a wall on the Mexican border -- although he said it could include some fencing.
Experts estimate there are as many as 11 million foreigners living illegally in the United States, many of them Central and Southern Americans long-established in the country.
Trump's stance stood in opposition with comments by House Speaker Paul Ryan, who said Sunday the focus under a Trump administration would be on securing the border, not rounding up immigrants.
"We are not planning on erecting a deportation force. Donald Trump's not planning on that," Ryan told CNN.
Appointment 'imminent'
Since his election on the back of an incendiary anti-immigrant campaign, thousands of demonstrators have taken to the streets daily, worried that Trump will put his rhetoric into practice.
The billionaire's Trump Tower residence in Manhattan was picketed for four straight days by, with similar protests across the United States.
The tower has been a hive of activity as the real estate mogul huddles with his transition team to shape his cabinet -- appointments expected to play a crucial role in setting the tone of an administration led by a 70-year-old political novice.
Trump faces a colossal task in hammering out cabinet picks and filling hundreds of other top government jobs ahead of his January 20 inauguration.
Campaign manager Kellyanne Conway has said the announcement of White House chief of staff -- the powerful gatekeeper to the president -- is "imminent."
Top contenders include Reince Priebus, the head of the Republican National Committee, who Trump has credited for helping engineer his unlikely election win.
'Hold him accountable'
Democrats have been despondent in the wake of an election they were certain of winning, but vowed Sunday to oppose Trump -- despite now being locked out of power not only in the House and Senate, but now in the White House as well.
"Our job now is to hold him accountable," said Bernie Sanders, who lost to Hillary Clinton in the Democratic nomination race.
"If Mr. Trump has the courage to take on Wall Street, to take on the drug companies, to try to work forward, go forward to create a better life for working people, we will work with him, issue by issue.
"But if his presidency is going to be about discrimination, if it's going to be about scapegoating immigrants or scapegoating African-Americans or Muslims, we will oppose him vigorously," Sanders declared.
An ABC News/Washington Post poll out Sunday shows that 74 percent of Americans accept Trump's election as legitimate, but that number fell to 58 percent among supporters of his defeated rival Clinton.
Trump has shown some willingness to soften his more strident positions. His U-turn on Obamacare -- he now says he may simply amend a law he once branded a "disaster" on the stump -- was prompted by his White House meeting with the outgoing president earlier this week.
He told CBS and The Wall Street Journal he may maintain some of the program's more popular elements, such as a ban on insurance companies denying coverage because of so-called pre-existing health conditions.
Asked by the paper whether he would, as threatened, name a special prosecutor to investigate Clinton over her use of a private email server as secretary of state, Trump deflected, saying his priorities were "health care, jobs, border control, tax reform."
Not long ago Trump was leading crowds in chants of "Lock her up!"
Hate groups
The Republican has yet to respond, however, to mounting calls to reassure Americans who fear a xenophobic crackdown under his authority.
The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), which monitors hate groups, tracked more than 200 incidents of election-related harassment in the three days following the vote, with many more allegations emerging on social media.
Tens of thousands have signed an SPLC petition urging Trump to clearly distance himself from hate groups.
Tycoon claims appointing a prosecutor against Clinton not on his mind right now.
Washington: US President-elect Donald Trump has said he has not given a thought yet on appointing a special prosecutor against his bitter campaign rival Hillary Clinton and instead wants to focus on major issues like jobs, health and immigration along with border security.
I feel that I want to focus on jobs, I want to focus on health care, I want to focus on the border and immigration and doing a really great immigration Bill. We want to have a great immigration Bill. I want to focus on all of these other things that weve been talking about, Mr Trump told CBS 60 Minute programme that was aired on Sunday.
Mr Trump said he wants to get the country straightened away instead of thinking about appointing special prosecutors against Ms Clinton.
I dont want to hurt them. I dont want to hurt them. Theyre, theyre good people. I dont want to hurt them. And I will give you a very, very good and definitive answer the next time we do 60 Minutes together, he said when reminded about his campaign rhetoric.
Mr Trump said he discussed several priority issues with the House Speaker Paul Ryan during their meeting at the Capitol Hill on Thursday.
I would say there was more than one thing, there were three things, it was healthcare, there was immigration and there was a major tax Bill lowering taxes in this country. Were going to substantially simplify and lower the taxes, he said in response to a question.
Mr Trump said he has made decisions about Cabinet positions, but refused to divulge any names.
World leaders calling him after his election, he said, reflects Americas power.
You know the amazing thing to show you the incredible nature of our country. First of all, every major leader... Has called me, Ive spoken to many of them and Ill call the rest of them, but and I said, Boy, this really shows you how powerful our country is.
France and UK and I mean everybody, all over Asia and very, just to congratulate. But it really shows the power of our country, he said.
Responding to a question, he said he has not made up his mind if he would ask for the resignation of the FBI director James Comey for his decisions related to the probe against Ms Clinton.
I think that I would rather not comment on that yet. I dont I havent made up my mind. I respect him a lot. I respect the FBI a lot.
I would certainly like to talk to him. And see him. This is a tough time for him, Mr Trump said when asked if he would seek the resignation of the FBI director.
Under Church law, they cannot receive communion unless they abstain from sex with their new partner.
Pope Francis blesses the faithful during an audience with the participants of homeless jubilee in the Paul VI Hall at the Vatican. (Photo: AP)
Vatican City: Four conservative Roman Catholic cardinals made a rare public challenge to Pope Francis on Monday over some of his teachings in a major document on the family, accusing him of sowing confusion on important moral issues.
The cardinals two Germans, an Italian, and an American said they had gone public with their letter to the Pope because he had not responded.
The Pope has clashed before with conservatives who worry he is weakening Roman Catholic rules on moral issues such as homosexuality and divorce, while focusing on social problems such as climate change and economic inequality.
At issue are some of the teachings in a 260-page treatise called Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love), a cornerstone document of Pope Francis attempt to make the 1.2 billion-member Church more inclusive and less condemning.
In the document, issued in April, he called for a Church that was less strict and more compassionate towards any imperfect members, such as those who divorced and remarried, saying no one can be condemned forever.
Most critics have focused on what the Popes letter said about the full re-integration into the Church of members who divorce and remarry in civil ceremonies.
Under Church law, they cannot receive communion unless they abstain from sex with their new partner, because their first marriage is still valid in the eyes of the Church and therefore they are seen to be living in an adulterous state of sin.
In the document, the Pope appeared to side with progressives who had proposed an internal forum in which a priest or bishop decide jointly with the individual on a case-by-case basis if he or she can be fully re-integrated and receive communion.
Conservatives have contested this and, in their cover letter, the four cardinals asked the Pope to resolve those doubts which are the cause of disorientation and confusion.
Investigators plan to take a DNA sample from Julian Assange, subject to his agreement.
London: WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was being questioned by prosecutors on Monday at the Ecuadoran embassy in London in the latest twist in the long-running legal battle over a rape allegation against him.
Swedish prosecutor Ingrid Isgren, who will be present while Assange is questioned by an Ecuadoran prosecutor, entered the embassy building shortly before 1000 GMT, an AFP photographer said.
Assange's lawyer Per Samuelsson has said the questioning, which has been delayed in the past because of diplomatic disagreements between Ecuador and Sweden, could last several days.
"I am very hopeful... Objectively, there is no doubt that everything happened as Assange said it did," Samuelsson told Sweden's TT news agency.
"Free Assange" and "You Won't Stop Wikileaks" read banners held up by a small group of protesters outside the embassy as the officials arrived.
"Freedom Loving People of the World Say Thank You Ecuador!" read another banner hung under the balcony from which Assange has sometimes addressed supporters.
A Swedish police inspector will also attend the questioning and investigators plan to take a DNA sample from Assange, subject to his agreement.
The creator of the secret-spilling website has been holed up in the red-brick building behind Harrods luxury department store for more than four years.
The 45-year-old Australian sought refuge in the embassy in June 2012 after Swedish prosecutors issued a European arrest warrant against him, over allegations of rape and sexual assault filed by two women who met Assange during a 2010 trip to Sweden.
He denied the claims, saying they were politically motivated, and insisting his sexual encounters with the two women were consensual.
He has refused to travel to Sweden for questioning, fearing he would be extradited to the United States over WikiLeaks' release of 500,000 secret military files on the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Swedish prosecutors dropped the sexual assault probe last year after the five-year statute of limitations expired.
But they still want to question him about the 2010 rape allegation, which carries a 10-year statute of limitations.
It was the first time Assange has been interviewed over the matter since initial questioning by Swedish police at the time of the allegation.
Assange, speaking through his lawyer, has said he welcomes the "chance to clear his name" and hopes the investigation will subsequently close.
In May, a Swedish court reaffirmed the arrest order, rejecting the finding of a UN working group that his confinement in the Ecuadoran embassy amounted to arbitrary detention.
Petition for Trump 'pardon'
In the days since the US election, supporters have launched a petition calling on President-elect Donald Trump to pardon Assange by "absolving him of any crimes alleged against him" -- an apparent reference to the military leaks.
The petition on the change.org website, which has gathered more than 17,700 signatures, hails Assange as a "hero" for exposing the "corruption of those who presume to rule us".
Assange's lawyer said he had made "repeated requests" for an interview with police to address the rape claim, though Ecuadoran prosecutors say a hearing scheduled for October was postponed at the Australian's request.
"Julian Assange has always wanted to tell his version to the Swedish police. He wants a chance to clear his name," Samuelsson told AFP.
The legal grilling comes after WikiLeaks returned to the spotlight with the leak of tens of thousands of emails from the US Democratic Party and presidential candidate Hillary Clinton's campaign in the final weeks of the race for the White House.
Assange defended the publication, denying links with Russia and claims that his website was trying to influence the US vote which saw Trump, a republican, elected.
Tensions with his Ecuadoran hosts have been growing, with the leaks prompting the embassy to cut Assange's internet access, citing respect for "non-intervention" in the affairs of other states.
The Indian troops violated ceasefire along the LoC in the Bhimber sector of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, the Pak army said.
Pakistan army on Monday said at least seven of its soldiers were killed in firing by Indian troops. (Photo: AP/Representational)
Islamabad: Pakistan on Monday said at least seven of its soldiers were killed in "unprovoked" firing by Indian troops across the LoC following which Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif asserted that the country is "fully capable" of defending its territory against "any aggression".
Seven Pakistani soldiers were killed at the LoC in the Bhimber sector in an alleged ceasefire violation by Indian troops late last night, according to a statement by the army.
Pakistani troops responded to "unprovoked" Indian firing and targeted Indian posts "effectively", it said.
Sharif expressed grief over the loss of lives in the "latest violation of Line of Control (LoC) by the Indian forces" and said "it is extremely unfortunate that Indian forces have continuously violated ceasefire agreement at the LoC in the recent days", Press Information Department Pakistan said.
"We are fully capable of defending our soil against any aggression," it quoted Sharif as saying.
The Prime Minister also claimed that the Indian forces have resorted to escalating tension on the LoC only to "uselessly divert" the worlds attention from the "grave human rights situation" in Kashmir.
So far, mostly civilian have been killed in the firing on Pakistani side of the LoC.
Pakistan Foreign Office last week said that the civilian death toll from alleged Indian shelling has risen to at least 25 in the past few weeks.
The Obama-Xi era is ending amid doubts and uncertainties that weigh on the entire Pacific region. Chinas president calls for "cooperation in many areas." Trump pledges to cooperate for "mutual benefit" but the protectionist threats he made during the campaign hang over the future. Taiwan, North Korea and the South China Sea are the other main items on the agenda.
Beijing (AsiaNews/Agencies) Bilateral relations, North Koreas nuclear programme, US arms sales to Taiwan, Chinese territorial claims in the South China Sea, and trade are some of the most important issues that hang in the balance of relations between Beijing and Washington.
During his campaign, Donald Trumps protectionism irritated Chinas leaders, and his victory has created uncertainty about the future.
Chinese state TV network CCTV reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping and the US president elect spoke on the phone. During the conversation, the two leaders agreed to meet soon to discuss bilateral relations and major international issues.
According to press reports, the Chinese leader told Trump that the two countries "need collaboration and can cooperate in many areas."
No direct reference was made to the Republican leaders threat during the campaign to impose a 45 duty on Chinese imports and his definition of China as an "enemy".
"Good intentions" appear to prevail in the first direct contact between the two leaders, who pledged to meet "as soon as possible" to discuss "bilateral relations and issues of common interest". Trump also said during the phone conversation that the United States and China can cooperate for their mutual benefit.
Still, uncertainties surround the new US president with respect to foreign policy, especially compared to Barack Obamas hands-on approach to Asia. The outgoing president focused in recent years on continent and its main unresolved issues, including the South China Sea conflicts.
At the same time, Beijings own problems from internal reforms to the economic slowdown through changes to the party leadership in late 2017 will also affect relations between the two superpowers.
Analysts and experts are waiting to see what decisions Trump will make in relation to the Asia-Pacific region and if China can benefit from an eventual US disengagement from it.
During the Obama presidency, a gradual change has taken place in bilateral relations. The promise of friendship and cooperation during the first term was followed by four years of gradual wearing down in relations and rising confrontation.
The highlight in Beijing-Washington relations was the signing of the climate accord at the Paris Conference in 2015. However, uncertainties remain as to the future with respect to energy and environmental policies by President elect Trump, who is anything but an enemy of US oil conglomerates.
The Obama-Xi age also coming to an end amid big doubts and many uncertainties that will weigh heavily on the whole Asia-Pacific region with old alliances at stake in a climate of growing mistrust and mutual suspicion.
Still, some observers agree that economic choices will shape future relations between the two countries.
If Trump sticks to protectionist policies, and imposes customs duties on Chinese products, there could be serious repercussions for the world economy as a whole.
A trade war would cause "incalculable" damage, considering that China which owns much of the US foreign debt is not without weapons to retaliate and could launch a counteroffensive.
For the experts, the coming months will give the White Houses new landlord time to assess the relationship with Beijing and the impact of his choices - protectionist or not - not only on the US economy, but also on the world.
by Mathias Hariyadi
A child among the wounded. AsiaNews sources: the author was stopped by the crowd and arrested. A strategy of tension that finds its roots in a blasphemy accusation against governor of Jakarta. The real goal: to topple President Joko Widodo.
Jakarta (AsiaNews) - A homemade bomb exploded in front of the church in Oikumene Sengkotek (Samarinda), in the East Kalimantan province. Four people, including a child, were injured and there was damage to motorcycles parked there. It is the first time that such an incident of this nature has taken place in the provincial capital of East Kalimantan.
The police chief General Safarudin, confirming the incident, spoke of Molotov cocktail thrown by persons unknown, at 10.30 local (30.09 Jakarta time).
A local source informed AsiaNews that some people present at the scene said that the author was stopped and detained by the crowd after attempting to escape by jumping into the nearby river.
The motive for the attack is unknown. The author is a resident of Bogor, in West Java province.
The political situation
It is likely that the attack is the result of the tension clouding Jakarta. Society is divided in two. One part believe the accusations of "blasphemy" made against the Jakarta Governor Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama, a Christian. This part of society would include radical Muslims and other groups, including the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI).
The other camp defends Ahok. These include academics, Muslim religious, the two most numerous Islamic organizations in the country - the Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah - and other civil society groups. These state that Ahok was targeted on purpose by some radical fringe, manipulating an apparent case of "religious blasphemy" to destabilize the administration of President Joko Widodo.
Radical groups staged demonstrations and clashes last November 4 and are preparing another for November 25 next. Their design is to force Widodo to resign after organizing widespread chaos. A similar thing happened in 1998, when a kind of "civil war" broke out between different sectors of society, forcing then-President Suharto from power.
This morning a suicide attack in the south-west of the capital has caused eight deaths. Over the weekend a series of explosions killed at least 11 civilians, dozens wounded. So far there are no official claims. Special forces have recaptured the ancient Assyrian city. The jihadists had destroyed heritage sites, considered pagan.
Baghdad (AsiaNews / Agencies) - At least eight people have died and six were wounded in a suicide attack this morning by a commando suicide bomber in a town south-west of Baghdad, Ain al-Tamer, an area hitherto spared from violence. The assault involved six suicide bombers, some of which may have been killed by security forces before blowing themselves up.
The morning's attack is just the latest in a series that hit the Iraqi capital and other parts of the country over the weekend, killing at least 11 civilians and wounding dozens. Residential and commercial districts were the main targets of the explosions.
So far there have been no official claims, even if the suspicions favor the Islamic State (IS). In increasing difficulty in Mosul under the offensive launched on 17 October by the army and Kurdish Peshmerga, the Daesh fighters have so far responded with attacks in other parts of the country.
Security sources report that a car bomb exploded in the south-east Kamaliya district, causing three deaths and eight injured. Police surrounded the area and ambulances have transported the wounded to local hospitals.
Two other civilians were killed and eight were injured in the blast of an improvised explosive device near a shopping center in Abu Ghraib, 25 km west of the capital. A civilian was killed and five others injured in a car bomb that hit the north-eastern district of Sadr City.
Also yesterday, a bomb exploded at the passage of a car in Muhammad Qasim Road, in the east of Baghdad, causing a victim and three wounded. Four other people were killed in the explosion of a bomb in Sha'ab district to the north of the capital.
Meanwhile the Iraqi army and Kurdish militias offensive continues towards Mosul. Over the weekend special forces wrested Nimrud from the jihadists. The ancient Assyrian city came under the control of the IS, and whose heritage sites were devastated by the militia because considered pagan.
Nimrud is located on the east bank of the Tigris River, about 30 kilometers south of Mosul, in northern Iraq. In March 2015 Iraqi historical and government officials had condemned the destruction of the archaeological site, which dates back to the 13th century BC. For UNESCO the ravages committed by men of the Caliph constitute a war crime.
In an official statement the Iraqi army says that "the troops of the Ninth Armored Division liberated the city of Nimrud" and have "raised the Iraqi flag over its buildings." At the same time the soldiers "have inflicted heavy losses in terms of lives and equipment on the so-called Islamic State".
by Mathias Hariyadi
Two year old Olivia Intan Marbun did not survive her wounds and burns. She was playing with other children in front of the church when the improvised explosive device exploded. The assailant, Johanda, had already been arrested for terrorism and has ties with the Islamic State.
Jakarta (AsiaNews) - The first victim of the attack yesterday at the church Samarinda (East Kalimantan) is a two year old girl, who did not survive her wounds and the burns. Olivia Intan Marbun was playing with other children in front of the church, waiting for her parents, when an improvised explosive device exploded overwhelming her and other children. Triniti Hutahayan (4 years), Anita (4) and Alfaro Sinaga (5) are in serious condition.
All of those wounded in the attack belong to the Batak ethnic group, members of the Protestant Batak Church. Police arrested the alleged assailant, Jo Bin Muhammad Aceng Kurnia known as Johanda, an ex-convict for terrorist crimes, suspected of having links with the Islamic state.
Johanda was arrested in May 2011 for plotting attacks on the science and technology center in Puspitek Serpong (South Tangerang, southwest of Jakarta) and the Gading Serpong church. Sentenced to three years and six months imprisonment, the terrorist was released on bail in 2014, during the Islamic holiday of "Eid Mubarak." It is tradition that during this period some prisoners can get their sentences reduced, as is the case with Christians during Christmas. Much of civil society is now asking if this measure is not too permissive towards terrorists.
Instead of repenting, Johanda continued to plan attacks up to yesterday. According to the head of the Indonesian police, Tito Karnavian, "Johanda is a member of the Jamaah Anshorut Tauhid (JAT)," an Islamist movement founded by Abu Bakar Bashir. The latter, 77, was sentenced in August to 15 years in prison for having financed a fundamentalist training camp in Aceh.
Johanda along with five other people were arrested in connection with the attack yesterday.
The Synod of Protestant Churches in Indonesia (PGI) has released a document describing the terrorist attack "as a human tragedy". Violent acts, the statement said, can never be the best solution to solve the problems: "We ask the police to deal with this emergency as soon as possible. Intolerance can not be tolerated in any form, including the hate speech that led to the protests of recent weeks ".
The reference is to the protests against the Christian Jakarta Governor Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama, accused of blasphemy. According to many analysts, they are part of a political plan to bring down the President Joko Widodo.
by Victoria Ma
Hong Kong (AsiaNews) - Pope Francis has appointed the current auxiliary bishop Michael Yeung Ming-cheung, coadjutor bishop of Hong Kong. The announcement was made by the Holy See yesterday at 12 noon and in Hong Kong at 7pm, while the closing of the Holy Door of the Jubilee of Mercy was being celebrated in the Cathedral.
Msgr. Yeung, 71, succeeds Card. John Tong, current ordinary bishop of Hong Kong, who is 78 years old. Card. Tong turned 75 in 2014, the canonical age for retirement, but the pope has extended his responsibility for another three years, until 2017.
Towards the end of the Mass, Msgr. Ante Jozic, Head of the Holy See Study Mission in Hong Kong (see photos), made the official announcement, pointing out that Msgr. Yeung has served for some time the diocese of Hong Kong with "renewed dedication and love for the Church of Christ", "with ever greater responsibility", aiding Card. Tong in his duties.
After the announcement, Msgr. Yeung knelt in front of Card. Tong and then in front of Card. Joseph Zen, bishop emeritus of Hong Kong. Rising, he embraced both, along with the auxiliary bishop Msgr. Joseh Ha.
Addressing the faithful, Msgr. Yeung (photo 1) confessed to having many defects and thanked the Pope for the trust given to him. He also thanked the two cardinals, who had taken him in about 44 years ago when he entered the seminary. He said Card. Zen has always supported him and from him he has learned not to allow difficulties stop him. From Card. Tong he has learned to be kind and magnanimous, full of love for the culture, the people and the Chinese Church. In a society as diverse as that of Hong Kong, he said, the two cardinals are like two big trees, under which he can enjoy a little 'shade. And while obeying the pope's appointment, he cannot help but follow in their footsteps.
Msgr. Yeung was born in Shanghai on 1 December 1945 into a Catholic family and arrived in Hong Kong when he was four. He worked in import-export, before entering the seminary in Hong Kong at 26 years of age. He was ordained a priest on June 10, 1978. He completed studies in communication (Syracuse, USA) and in philosophy and education (Harvard, USA). Since August 2003 he has been head of the local Caritas and Vicar General since 2009. He was ordained auxiliary bishop in August 2014.
(Lucia Leung collaborated)
by Vincent Lazun Naw San*
The relics were exhibited at the closing ceremony of the Holy Door at St Mary Cathedral. The Mass was attended by the faithful of various nationalities. The bishop blessed children, following the Shinto ritual of Shichi-go-san.
Tokyo (AsiaNews) Yesterday, 13 November, in the morning, Mgr Peter Takeo Okada, archbishop of Tokyo, along with the Apostolic Nuncio Mgr Joseph Chennath and other priests concelebrated the closing Mass of the Year of Mercy in Tokyos St Marys Cathedral.
Many Japanese Catholics from the capital as well as immigrants from Korea, Vietnam, Philippines, and Burma as well as a small number of Europeans took part in the important event. A choir marked the solemnity with songs at different moments of the service.
The Mass also included a ritual for children called Shichi-go-san. Originally based in Shinto culture, it involves taking children aged seven, five and three years to the temple to be blessed by the priest. In yesterday's ceremony, the bishop blessed the children.
Usually, the Shichi-go-san festival is celebrated on 15 November, a date deemed lucky in Shinto culture. In Japan, the odd numbers are lucky numbers. Children are brought to the temple because they are protected by Kami (deities). In the case of Christianity, they are blessed by Jesus who blessed the children in the Gospel.
During the Mass, the relics of St John Paul II and St Faustina Kowalska were exhibited. The Polish pope is a figure much admired by the Japanese, who welcomed him with great solemnity in 1981. Kowalska is the initiator of the devotion to the Divine Mercy, whose celebration was introduced in the Catholic Church by John Paul II.
The Jubilees closing ceremony had as its intention asking God, through the grace of the two saints, for mercy for the Japanese people as a whole.
* PIME missionary in Japan.
by Nirmala Carvalho
First year seminarians from St Pius College in Goregaon East were divided into four groups. Living for a week among poor people in Maharashtra hill villages made them understand their many blessings".
Mumbai (AsiaNews) Four groups of first year Orientationist seminarians at St Pius College in Goregaon, East Mumbai spent a week living among the people of some tribal villages of Maharashtra to see first hand the challenges of mission and become more aware of their vocation.
Fr Jervis D'Souza, an educator, took the students of the Archdiocesan seminary to the hills near the Madad Mission, home to tribal Adivasi.
Here, the seminarians stayed with locals, experiencing their daily difficulties, such as lack of electricity and running water. But they also "learnt to appreciate what they have, and they understood the value of manual work (often considered inferior) that Tribals accept without finding excuses.
The seminarians travelled to the mission run by Fr Carlton Kinny who has been working ceaselessly and selflessly for the past 27 years in Raigad District with Fr Elias D'Cunha and the Daughters of the Cross Sisters.
They began their missionary experience on 15 October ahead of World Mission Day, which was celebrated the following Sunday. They were divided into four groups, each destined for a local village, populated mostly by ethnic Katkari Adivasi.
Before they began their week of service, Fr DSouza noted, they were "invited to observe the Adivasi who are completely satisfied with their lives and the context in which they live and challenged to find the same satisfaction in their own lives."
The first group was taken to Dehwad. Here the missionaries imprint is visible, starting with houses built with masonry rather than mud. The village has a kindergarten and a primary school, electric power is available almost everywhere and new bathrooms were installed recently.
Still, the seminarians were "shocked by the lack of education. Only very few people attended school and many young people under 30 are already grandparents." The educator explains that "despite three decades of social effort by the missionaries, there is still a high rate of child marriages.
The caste system is strong in society and ancient taboos and superstitious traditions are still alive. People are not aware of their rights and are still distrustful of the missionaries."
Looking at the daily difficulties of these people, almost all landless farmers, "the group realised how lucky they are. This experience has made the seminarians aware of the many blessings they have."
The second group went to another village "where it was surprised by the difference between the lifestyle at the seminary and that of the Katkaris. For example, the alarm clock is not needed here because of the rooster crow. Looking at manual work, the group understood the value it has for the villagers, who endure great hardships without finding excuses."
Another group visited the 50 families of the village of Khumbarde. Here the children are encouraged to attend school and are rewarded with a rupee a day. The locals spend this money for daily food, and are not overanxious about the need to make money to feed the family.
The fourth group went to Palasgaon, where it had the opportunity to learn and speak the local Marathi dialect, a crucial step for breaking the language barrier with Tribals.
Through this experience of mission, "the seminarians have understood how hard the work of priests, religious and laity is. They need prayer support every day. Young people have a better understanding of the reality, and this has deepened their perspective on life, Fr DSoua said. "We hope that some of them may choose the way of the mission."
Conspiracy Theory Alleges Trump Was Born In Pakistan
Trending News: President Trump Now Has His Own Birther Scandal To Deal With
Long Story Short
Donald Trump was born in Pakistan as Dawood Ibrahim Khan in 1946. Or so alleges a new conspiracy theory originating from Twitter. In the extremely, EXTREMELY, unlikely case that this is true, Trump wouldn't qualify for the presidency.
Long Story
Birtherism is back. Although this time, Donald Trump may be the one having to provide his birth certificate.
An Urdu-language news site called Neo News reported that the U.S. president-elect isn't who you think he is. Contrary to popular belief, Trump wasn't born in New York, but rather in the now-Taliban-controlled Waziristan region of Pakistan in 1946 (as seen in English via The Times of Israel). Citing Twitter posts, the Pakistani news agency reports that Trump's birth name was Dawood Ibrahim Khan (ironically the same last name as the Gold Star family he humiliated on the campaign trail).
In a video report, Neo News shared a photo of the boy they say Trump was back in Pakistan.
As the conspiracy theory goes, Trump was taken in by a British Indian Army captain following the death of his parents in a tragic car accident. While in London in 1956, Trump was adopted by the American family who we know as his parents.
In the extremely unlikely case that this is true, Trump wouldn't be allowed to sit as president because he wasn't born in the United States.
This is a little taste of Trump's own medicine. He spent years spewing the baseless theory that Barack Obama was born outside of the U.S. and is Muslim. In September, Trump finally said he accepts that Obama was born in America, but refused to apologize.
I mean there have been stranger conspiracy theories, I guess.
Own The Conversation
Ask The Big Question
Will Trump respond to these ludicrous allegations?
Drop This Fact
As of August, 41% of Republicans believed the birther movement.
UN Weather Service Officially Declares 2016 The Hottest Year On Record
Trending News: UN Declares 2016 The Warmest Year Ever Recorded
Long Story Short
As negotiators of the Paris climate agreement meet in Marrakesh, Morocco to work out details of the accord, the UNs World Meteorological Organization has announced that 2016 is the warmest year ever recorded.
Long Story
The WMO doesnt need data from the years final two months to declare this year the hottest since measurements began in the 19th century.
The figures show that the year through October has shown an average global temperature increase of 1.2 degrees Celsius (2.2 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels. The Paris accord calls for an increase limit of 2 or even 1.5 degrees.
The WMO says the El Nino weather phenomenon did play a role in this years temperature rise, but believes that human activity, in particular the burning of fossil fuels, remains the most important factor in boosting world temperatures.
The WMO released the preliminary report to act as a spur to negotiators meeting in Morocco this week to hash out methods of implementing the Paris treaty, which was adopted in December and signed by 193 countries earlier this year.
This years temperature record breaks the previous record set only last year. 2015 was the hottest year on record after global temperatures surged past 2014s numbers.
Another year. Another record, said WMO secretary-general Petteri Taalas. In parts of Arctic Russia, temperatures were 6C to 7C above the long-term average. Many other Arctic and sub-Arctic regions in Russia, Alaska and north-west Canada were at least 3C above average. We are used to measuring temperature records in fractions of a degree, and so this is different.
According to the Reuters news agency, President-elect Donald Trump is looking for a quick way to walk out of the agreement, and believes climate change is a hoax.
The concept of global warming was created by and for the Chinese in order to make U.S. manufacturing non-competitive. Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 6, 2012
Own The Conversation
Ask The Big Question
Can the world move ahead with the Paris deal without the United States?
Drop This Fact
For the third year in a row, global carbon emissions were flat. Its believed the ongoing recession in China and declining consumption of coal in the US are the cause.
Beauty Bloggers during the Happy Skin x Disney Limited Edition Makeup Launch
L-R Tara, Phoebe, Me, Sophie, Earth, Angela and Jackie
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Even in my 30s, I have to admit, I still watch Disney Movies because I feel so good deep inside. Especially Disney's Iconic Princesses like Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, and who could forget Frozen?The list could go on because deep inside, I believe all women are Princesses! We deserve to be treated as one too!Just as Disney plays a significant part of everyone's childhood, it is even more exciting to see these Princesses in our favorite makeups!Happy Skin made our dreams come true!The collaboration between the two brands Happy Skin x Disney equates to a limited edition makeup collection that girls are going crazy about!During the launch, Happy Skin also revealed #ThePrincessInYou role models who appeal to us today.Together with The Walt Disney Company Philippines General Manager Ms. Veronica Cabalinan and Happy Skin Co-Founders Jacque and Rissa, here are the Princesses --- the women who aren't afraid to dream big!I had so much fun singing Disney songs on top of my head as I'm writing this article! :)You may shop online www.happyskincosmetics.com www.zalora.com.ph . Follow them on Facebook ( www.facebook.com/happyskincosmetics ) , Instagram and Twitter (@Happyskin_ph)
Aldi to sell Australian products in China
Aldi has announced that from second quarter 2017 it will begin on-line retail operations in China.
The company plans to begin by selling wine and parts of its non-chilled grocery range, most of which will be sourced from Aldis established Australian suppliers and sold on-line.
Aldis initial online service will allow Chinese shoppers access to cheap groceries and weekly specials. It will also offer home delivery.
Aldi already operates in three continents: Europe including Britain, the US, and Australia and is the seventh largest food retailer globally.
The announcement comes after several years of detailed feasibility studies by Aldi considering its options for entering the Chinese market. The company expects to open physical stores at a later date.
Previous attempts by Western-based supermarket groups such as Tesco and Carrefour to enter the Chinese market have proved difficult.
Chinese consumers are known to be wary of retailers house brands but are keen buyers of Australian produce and products since these are perceived by consumers in China to be clean, pure and of high quality.
There is some speculation that Aldi is hopeful of recruiting staff in Australia for its new China business from Australias Chinese community.
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Australian agribusiness export concern on Trump election
Australian farmers are worried that the overtly hostile rhetoric of American President-elect Trump toward imports might close their second most-important market.
The US currently takes 11 per cent of Australias AUD $46 billion agrifood export trade which includes:
Beef AUD $3.1billion
Lamb AUD $601million
Goat meat AUD $155milion
Wine AUD $491million
Many times during the recent US Presidential election campaign, Trump said that he would tear-up the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) which has not yet been implemented by the American Congress. He has also said he wants to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) which was signed by President Bill Clinton in December 1993.
Australian government ministers and Austrade spokespersons have said that Trumps election poses no threat to the continuation of the 12-year old Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Australia and the US.
Since this FTA was signed in January 2005, the two-way trade between Australia and the US has increased from AUD $41 billion to more than AUD $70 billion. By 2023, 98.4 per cent of US tariff lines are to be completely duty-free for Australian exporters to the USA.
However, the anticipated cancellation of the TPP will likely remove opportunities for international growth for Australian beef, dairy, grain and rice producers into US markets and also into the markets of the other ten countries who were to be parties to the TPP treaty.
Before the 2016 US election, the Australian sugar industry, which exports 80 per cent of its AUD $3 billion crop each year, was promised greater access to the high-priced US sugar market with a boost to exports projected from 85,000 tonnes per year to 150,000 tonnes.
Some farmers in the US are also displeased at the prospective cancellation of the TPP. Through their lobby group, American Farm Bureau, they have campaigned loudly in its support.
Paradoxically, Trump has in the past been a strong proponent of international trade but has also wanted to see American goods and services gain ascendancy in foreign markets.
Byron Bay Chilli Co. does huge international deal
Australian regional food manufacturer, Byron Bay Chilli Co, has launched in Bangladesh under licence, six varieties of its best-known sauces.
Demand for high-quality chilli sauces has boomed across Bangladesh and parts of Western Asia and the Middle East to where the largest Bangladeshi factories have been exporting.
In 2015 the two-way trade between Australia and Bangladesh was worth AUD $1.87 billion. Australias exports to Bangladesh, mainly pulses, fertilisers and wheat, were worth AUD $688 million.
Other Australian sauce and salsa products are already exported to Bangladesh, but under the new licensing production agreement by Byron Bay Chilli Co to PRAN Agro Ltd, Bangladeshs largest processed food conglomerate, the latter will produce the sauces at its factory in Natore.
This is the first agreement of its kind to produce food in Bangladesh using Australian recipes, technology and branding.
Byron Bay Chilli Ltd expects the licensing agreement to give it an edge in the market and there is potential for the sauces to be exported from Bangladesh to the Middle East and neighbouring South Asian markets such as Nepal, Bhutan, and the north-eastern states of India.
The growing middle class in Bangladesh now numbers approximately 30 million and is developing as a significant consumer market for high-quality food products.
Australia has long been a supplier of food to communities in Bangladesh, helping to make up shortfalls in local production, but the middle-class market is now maturing.
The demand by the middle class for innovative, international food brands is expected to open other opportunities for other Australian brands and foods such as fresh juice, jam, honey, cereals, dairy and pasta.
Go beyond customers first names with personalised packaging
Unbranded Hazelnut Spread isolated on a white background with a blank label. Ideal for imposing your own artwork onto.
Brought to you by Trent Munro, Product Manager for Coding Technologies at Matthews Australasia,
Adding customers names to packaging has proven a hit with some brands: think Nutellas Christmas bonanza last year and Coca-Colas Share a Coke campaign from a couple of years ago. Its a great strategy for customer engagement and driving sales, particularly when, according to Mintel, one in five Millennials in the USA is after customised packaging, and nearly one in four Chinese consumers is willing to pay more for soft drink in personalised packaging.
But now its time to go beyond consumers first names, and leverage digital technology to truly get closer to your customers. Heres how.
Its not a fad, this desire for personalised packaging goes a long way to explaining how Nutella topped the 2015 Christmas list, with just Myer, just in Victoria, selling more than 400,000 jars of the chockie spread at $12.95 with someones name on it. (And on those Gen Yers or Millennials, heres an interesting look about how theyre changing the face of packaging.)
Brands have mostly played it safe with personalisation so far, and technology has made it faster and easier to add individual names to packaging via variable printing.
Thats all well and good, but how else can you leverage the technology to engage consumers on a personal, emotional or even local level?
Dig into data
Already customer data is driving massive changes in the way products come to market and packaging is no exception. Data insights mean you can personalise packaging to engage specific target markets, for instance: to target specific geographic areas, or interests or generations. Take yoghurt: packaging for the same product could differ depending upon whether you were targeting Millennial consumers or Baby Boomers. A good point to think about is which product features you could highlight for different markets; this could even be different recipes.
The true purpose of personalised packaging is to focus on engaging a consumer emotionally, rather than simply grabbing their attention in the short term. Its through emotional engagement that you can find the key to stronger customer loyalty. Data can unlock this.
Sensory role
The role of our senses is more powerful than you might realise with packaging especially for food and drink products. Packaging type, colour and format can all affect a consumers perception of the taste of the product within. Food & beverage are beginning to focus on touch, hearing and smell as well, and because consumers are less consciously aware of these elements, it makes their impact greater. For example, individually wrapped portions of Mars Ice Cream dont have a strong aroma, so the manufacturer has captured scents associated with the ice cream within the carton seal.
Its the same with sound. Back in 2004, a professor of experimental psychology at Oxford University conducted a test to find out how different wavelengths affect taste perceptions. Using Pringles, Charles Spence discovered that the sound of the crunch changed how people felt about the chips. Louder, higher-pitched crunch noises were rated as 15% fresher on average than softer, lower-pitched crunches. Since then, Spence has gone on to study how the auditory aspects of packaging can affect product perception. Beer brands are already using this to get the right fizz sound when a bottle is opened, so consumers enjoy an enhanced product experience.
Interactive senses
Some processors are taking multi-sensory packaging further by blending it with interactivity. When American brewer Anheuser-Busch introduced its tequila-flavoured beer, Oculto, it used thermochromic ink on the reverse of the label, which changes colour depending on the beers temperature.
The brand went one step further at a launch promotion where customers could scan their bottles, connect to a special app and win prizes. They were also directed to a web app, called Relics of the Night, which let them interact with the brand online, join the community on social media, and earn rewards and prizes by posting comments and photos. When activated by a pressure-sensitive switch underneath, LEDs light up with a Mexican skull design.
For some brands, this could be one step too far, but it does show whats possible when the boundaries of packaging technology are pushed to engage consumers. Oculto targets a young, tech-savvy millennial demographic the very same consumers who expect an interactive, personalised element to packaging.
Which brings us back to the most important point of all: personalised packaging needs to work for your target market and your brand. Dont just jump on the personalisation bandwagon hoping for success. Using customer-data insights, take the time to find a strategy that will lead to greater engagement with your product and brand.
If youre thinking about the types of technology you could use for printing different labels, please check out in-line labelling, Label Printer Applicators and Label Applicators. You may also find some useful information here on other types of coding.
Matthews has a wonderful resource library. The videos, case studies, whitepapers, presentations, infographics, articles from our thought leaders, brochures and product data sheets are all free to download. Please sign up for our quarterly newsletter, which is a great summary of our latest postings. And of course, you can check out our latest news and scroll through our FAQs.
* Trent Munro is the Product Manager for Coding Technologies at Matthews Australasia, and an accomplished business strategist, marketing innovator and speaker specialising in business development and optimisation. Over the past 18 years, he has worked across a range of blue-chip and medium enterprises including Goodyear Automotive, Clariant, Corona Manufacturing and Matthews. Trent holds a range of post-graduate and graduate qualifications in Commerce, Psychology, Project Management and Science. At Matthews, he has overseen market development locally and abroad, launching class-leading traceability and automation technologies across manufacturing, healthcare and logistics
Woolworths and SPC agree on new 3 year deal
Woolworths has announced that SPC Ardmona (SPC) has signed a three-year contract to supply an increased volume of deciduous fruit to Woolworths for its private brand.
The announcement came following an earlier report that Woolworths would not honour its AUD $70 million deal signed with SPC in 2014.
The latest deal commits SPC to supply approximately nine million cans of Australian deciduous fruit for Woolworths private brand over three years.
The new agreement also means that SPCs owner, Coca-Cola Amatil, will not have to repay the grant of AUD $22 million, for updating the companys operations, to the Victorian government.
Woolworths had shocked farmers in the Goulburn Valley with its unexpected announcement early last week that it was cancelling a contract with SPC for the supply of house brand tinned tomatoes and creating speculation about the future of its tinned fruit supply.
However, SPC has reassured the tomato growers of the Goulburn Valley saying that it will honour its verbal agreements to pay them for supplying this seasons crop.Tomato growers had already planted the tomato crop when Woolworths announced that it was cancelling its contract with SPC for the supply of its house brand tinned tomatoes.
Growers have been contacted by the fruit processor and told that even in the absence of written contracts, SPC will also honour all verbal assurances regarding price and quantity.
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Andrew Hay has joined the Board of Australias leading child protection organisation Bravehearts.He will join Board members Hetty Johnston AM (Chair); Wilma James (Vice Chair); Gemma Cook (Treasurer); Margaret Fitzsimons (Company Secretary); Carol Ronken (Minute Secretary) and Directors Rob Molhoek and Scott Chapman.A partner at Clayton Utz Brisbane, Hay has more than 25 years experience and has advised a plethora of companies in corporate governance and the formal application of ethical standards.For nearly two decades, Bravehearts has been a critical voice in advocating for the rights of all Australian children to be protected from sexual harm, says Hay.The 3 Piers to Prevention, on which Bravehearts activities are founded Educate, Empower, Protect are values that resonate with me and reflect the organisations approach to ensuring our children are able to live their lives in a safe environment.Bravehearts Founder and Chair Hetty Johnston AM, says the senior lawyer brings a high skill level of corporate professionalism that will complement Bravehearts existing leadership team.Andrew brings not only a wealth of knowledge, but also a passion for protecting children and we are delighted to have a person of his standing join us, as we strive to create child-safe communities around the country, says Johnston.Bravehearts is growing to meet demand on our services and having such diversity and balance on our Board and being able to draw on that collective experience, will help us to achieve our vision to make Australia the safest place in the world to raise a child.The veteran lawyer is well-connected in the domestic and Japanese business communities after spending a number of years practising in Tokyo and currently leads Clayton Utzs Japan practice group nationally and is President of the Australia-Japan Society (Queensland) Inc.He is a trusted advisor to Japanese companies for their inbound investment into Australia, and Australian companies undertaking business in Australia and investing overseas including Japan. He also heads the corporate advisory team for Clayton Utz in Brisbane and the Agribusiness Group nationally.Hay is involved in programs and organisations that provide community care, such as his current role of Chairman of the Adam Scott Foundation, which provides life opportunities for Australian youth and his previous trustee role with the Childrens Cancer Institute.
New research warns that many UK lawyers face considerably lower pension savings for their retirement.According to a new study by specialist mutual Wesleyan, most lawyers in the UK face almost 10,000 (about $16,700) per year shortfall in pension they deem sufficient to support themselves in retirement.On average, lawyers in Britain say they need approximately 36,852 per year (about $61,467) in order to live comfortably during their retirement, says a Global Legal Post report.However, when asked how much money they are saving every month, lawyers averaged just 1,042 (about $1,738) or just over 12,500 per year (about $20,850).When that amount is spread over 20 years or when lawyers reach their average retirement age of 58, the saving equate to 27,539 per year (about $45,934) in retirement income, nearly 10,000 less than what UK lawyers said they needed to live comfortably in retirement.The study also found that, on average, lawyers dont start topping up their retirement savings above their basic workplace pension contribution until the age of 29.Wesleyan warns that lawyers who wait until 29 to start increasing their savings will need to put away 1,523 per month (about $2,540) for the rest of their careers in order to reach the 36,852 per year pension target.Our research tells us that failing to save early enough if one of the biggest financial regrets, so its imperative that people start saving earlier to avoid a shock later in life, says Vicki Wentworth, Wesleyans customer and strategy chief.
A major trademark owned by the company that makes the Rubiks Cube has been struck down by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) last week.The trademark was a three-dimensional EU trademark on the shape of the cube which the company through its intellectual property rights manager, British company Seven Towers was awarded in 1999, Reuters reports.The trademark was challenged by German firm Simba Toys in 2006 which argued that the design which features moving parts was inappropriately protected by a trademark. Simba argues a patent is more apt to protect the product.Simba lost at the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) which granted the trademark and at lower EU court, but has won big at the higher court. Nonetheless, people should not expect to soon see a flood of lower-priced Rubiks cubes on the markets.We are disappointed by todays decision by the ECJ. While the Rubik Brand is fortunate in having other trademarks, copyright, passing off and unfair competition protection to rely on which will continue to ensure its exclusivity, this judgment sets a damaging precedent for companies wishing to innovate and create strong brands and distinctive marks within the EU, and is not what European lawmakers intended when they legislated for 3D trademarks, Rubiks Brand UK President David Kremer told The Guardian.Kremer added that the firm is baffled that the court finds functionality or a technical solution implicit in the trademark. In their decision, the ECJ noted that the rotating element of the cube is functional.In examining whether registration ought to be refused on the ground that shape involved a technical solution, EUIPO and the General Court should also have taken into account non-visible functional elements represented by that shape, such as its rotating capability, the judges argued.The ECJ decision is final and not subject to appeal which forces the EUIPO to issue a new decision.Invented by Erno Rubik in 1974, more than 360 million copies of the Rubiks Cube, which was originally called the Magic Cube, have been sold.
Americans disgruntled by Donald Trump being voted in as the next President of the United States have been looking at what it takes and would cost to move to Australia.The Department of Immigration and Border Control (DIBP) and real estate websites have confirmed a surge in inquiries from people in the United States since the election result was announced. 'There has been an increase in traffic to the Department's website from the United States,' a DIBP spokesman said but was unable to give numbers or any idea if they were from specific parts of the country.However property websites have seen searches from the United States being focussed on Sydney and Melbourne with those making the searches coming from Democrat strongholds such as California, New York and Florida.According to a REA Group spokesman views from the United States tripled last Wednesday, the day Trump was confirmed as President elect. Websites in the US which feature property in Australia also saw spikes in traffic with Realtor.com reporting a 329% increase.Meanwhile, Immigration Minister Peter Dutton has confirmed that there will be a one off deal where thousands of refugees currently held in controversial detention on Nauru and Manus Island will be resettled in the United States.The timing is significant as the deal will have to be completed before Trump takes office in January as he has declared he wants to reign in immigration to the United States.Resettlement arrangements for refugees in Nauru and Manus Island already exist with Papua New Guinea and Cambodia. 'This further agreement is with the United States and it will not under any circumstance be available to any future illegal maritime arrivals (IMAs) to Australia,' said Dutton.'The priority under this arrangement will be for resettlement of those who are most vulnerable, namely women, children and families. US authorities will conduct their own assessment of refugees and decide which people are resettled in the US,' he added.Dutton explained that refugees will need to satisfy standard requirements for admission into the US, including passing health and security checks and that the process will take time and the resettlement will be gradual.'This arrangement is supported by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and we will continue to engage with UNHCR on its implementation. We will continue to support the Governments of Nauru and Papua New Guinea to return people determined not to be owed protection. These people should return to their country of origin,' Dutton pointed out.And he repeated the Australian Government's tough stance on people trying to reach Australia by boat. 'Settlement in Australia will never be an option for those found to refugees in regional processing centres nor for anyone who attempts to travel to Australia illegally by boat in the future,' Dutton said.'Australia's border protection policy remains consistent and firm. Operation Sovereign Borders will continue to turn back people smuggling ventures where it is safe to do so and any illegal maritime arrivals to Australia will be sent to regional processing centres. The Australian Government has reinforced our maritime assets in the waters to Australia's north and increased our surveillance capabilities to ensure that any boats that attempt to come to Australia will be detected and turned back,' he concluded.
Part B
Q9 it asks for the original issue date. Would that be your first passport?
* Current passport.
Part C
Q14 would a national insurance number count?
* Believe no.
Part F
Q19 firstly, there are only 5 rows for entering details if you need more I assume part t would be the place to use but common sense tells me to print multiple part f pages as it is set out with the table just for the info you need to provide.
Secondly, if you don't have addresses or a company has moved or stopped trading what should you enter as their address?
Thirdly, I assume no address is required if you are entering unemployed for certain periods.
* Think last page is if more space is required from memory - Put as much correct info as possible (make a note to Case Officer if you have best guessed something).
Part G
Q20 firstly, I'm an outdoor instructor and so have many national governing body awards eg. Kayak coach qualification, Powerboat certificate etc are these to be included?
Secondly, it says all tertiary education, and gives examples one of which is college does that include GCSEs which I took when I was 16?
* Not sure.
Part H
Q22 as we are applying for a 189 visa and thus has no current travel arrangements then do I need to mention anything here?
* No current travel arrangements I guess.
Part K
Q36 this one is my main concern. The point which asks, "been convicted of an offence....." Does this include diving offences? I've had speeding fines and points as various times and I went to court for one because it was my second offence. My other concern is details because I cannot remember dates, fines, points, or even how many offences there have been, mainly because they were some time ago, ( as grown up since ).
* certainly the court one, I would say need to be included (it will show on police report).
Luxury quotient, SUV shape and green positioning could work in cars favour; priced over Rs 1 crore.
Around the time Volvo launched the new S90 sedan in India, it also revealed the S90 Excellence elsewhere in the world. Volvos most luxurious sedan yet, the S90 Excellence is built on an extended wheelbase version of the S90 and is unique for its three-seat layout with the missing front passenger seat allowing the rear seat occupant to really stretch out. Unfortunately, the S90 Excellence will not be made in the right-hand-drive form, which rules it out for countries like India.
However, Volvo India is confident it can cater to discerning luxury car buyers solely with the XC90 T8 Excellence that was launched here earlier this year. The fully-loaded Excellence sits at the top of the XC90 range and features a four-seat layout in place of the standard models three-row arrangement, with emphasis on rear seat comfort. While India deliveries will commence only in 2017, the model has received 50 bookings so far. The number may be small in absolute terms but, then again, estimates suggest the overall market for cars priced over Rs 1 crore is in the region of just 300 units per year.
What seems to have worked in the XC90 Excellences favour is that it is drawing attention from luxury sedan buyers. The customer base for the XC90 T8 is not the biggest since its quite an expensive car. But I am quite positively surprised with the results so far. I definitely think we are looking at sedan customers as well. People who look for a comfortable car with reclinable seats and ventilation get everything in the Excellence. You also have more ground clearance and the SUV image, so I think we can sort of steal customers from the sedans, Tom Von Bonsdorff, managing director, Volvo Auto India, told Autocar India.
While the SUV's shape and luxury are keys to the XC90 Excellences appeal, whats helping its case is that it sits in a sweet spot in the market. Priced at Rs 1.25 crore (ex-showroom, Delhi), it competes with full-size luxury sedans rather than any direct SUV rivals. The Range Rover is perhaps the closest rival to the XC90 Excellence in philosophy, but the Rangies high pricing (starting at Rs 2.15 crore) puts it in a different price bracket altogether.
Another trump card for the XC90 Excellence is Volvos decision to launch it in India as solely hybrid. The T8s powertrain comprises a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine and an electric motor with a combined output of 407hp. To a fair few buyers, the XC90 Excellence has the required green credentials to help them portray the right image at a time when emissions scandals and air pollution are part of everyday talk.
What could work against the XC90 Excellence after the initial excitement, however, is the Volvo badge. The Swedish brand doesnt yet have the cache of German luxury rivals, though it is amid a resurgent phase with both the XC90 and new S90 having been well received the world over.
Still, Volvo insiders are quietly confident the XC90 Excellence will only grow in popularity and potentially even become the best-selling luxury car over Rs 1 crore in India. Should that happen, rival manufacturers will definitely have something to think about.
This most in-demand workhorse of our long-term fleet has been munching miles at a superfast rate.
Every weekend, I head out on a mandatory trip one to visit my parents who live in Nashik. Because of this, our long-term Creta has become a frequent flyer on the NH 3, covering close to 400 kilometres in the process. Let me be honest, I have never been a big fan of Hyundai cars and when I first drove the petrol Creta, I didnt appreciate it too much, especially because the suspension setup was way too soft for my liking. But thankfully, our long-termer is a diesel version, which gets a more firmer setup in comparison, and over the last few months of driving this SUV, I have developed a fondness for it.
What I really like about the Creta is just how comfortable it is to drive, given its size. The light clutch makes it almost effortless to drive in peak-hour traffic something I experience daily, going from where I live in Chembur to office and back. Another bonus is that the steering is light to operate at parking speeds and the six-speed gearbox is slick to use. And even though there is never an opportunity to get past the fourth gear or fifth, I have no complaints.
Cabin refinement is noteworthy and its one aspect I have really come to appreciate, especially when crawling in traffic, even though this Creta runs on a diesel motor. The suspension on this SUV is great in the way it dampens and irons out potholes or any other undulations the road throws at it. This is most evident during my drives between Nashik and Mumbai where the highway is littered with potholes and rough sections, made worse thanks to the monsoons.
I must mention the electric-folding mirrors, and the window control that can be operated even after the car is switched off; very useful when I forget to fold the mirrors or roll up the windows.
This long-termer is the top-of-the-line SX (O), which is loaded with features, and looks stunning with the 17-inch alloy wheels that come as a standard fitment. You get leather seats, keyless entry and go, a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with sat nav, Bluetooth connectivity, USB, aux and even video playback. Hyundai has never skimped on loading its cars with features and there is no doubt that this SUV too is packed to the brim. But it does have a few weak points. I have a grouse with the keyless entry feature. Although useful, it only works for the drivers door or the boot, as these are the only two doors that have unlock buttons on them.
Another thing I dont like is the rear-view mirror which is a basic day/night tilt mirror instead of an automatic dimmer which Hyundai surprisingly offers in its cheaper Elite i20.
The factory-fitted infotainment system is great and everything worked perfectly. I found the reverse camera to be very useful, especially with the trajectory lines for reference. But it could have been much better with a sharper video resolution.
The Creta has a fair number of positives that have made me overlook these minor flaws, and I think Ill drive it around for a few thousand kilometres more. But for now, what I need to figure out is a way to keep the keys away from other Autocar staffers.
This acceleration test features the Clio GT-Line, a body kit added on top of the regular model. But it's actually faster than the Clio GT.Why? Because the Clio GT comes as standard with an EDC gearbox , while this has a regular 5-speed manual. Generally speaking, the higher the power of an engine, the better a job the auto will do. But we're only dealing with a 1.2-liter mill, not your average Porsche monster.According to this independent acceleration test, the 2017 Clio GT-Line reaches 100 km/h in only 9 seconds, 0.4s faster than its auto-only predecessor. That's backed up by the official claim of the manufacturer, which is also 9.0 seconds.The weight figures are all over the place, but nearly every twin-clutch gearbox adds 40-50 kilos to the car. Also, this new version of the 1.2 TCe engine has gained 15 Nm of torque for a total of 205 Nm.The way we see it, the GT-Line body kit has everything the Clio GT had, including 17-inch wheels, a diffuser tail, that odd-shaped exhaust and interior touches.But we get why the auto-only GT model has its appeal. If you're a young driver that just passed his test a year ago, and you want to look like a hero, something like this is right up your alley. The turbo engine has a kick, and you just want to have a second glance of that body kit once it's parked.But there's a price to pay, as the 120 horsepower engine and GT-Line body kit boost the price to 21,250 in France. That's dangerously close to the 20,750 MINI Cooper which has a much punchier 1.5-liter turbo engine. Renault doesn't have a good answer to that or the multitude of VW Group models equipped with the 1.4 TSI.
EV
Why 200 miles? Well, it needs to be a round number, and since 300 isn't yet achievable, that was what we were left with. It's also a psychological thing as that number of miles is well beyond most people's daily needs, which means any fear of range anxiety is removed from the start.As with most thing, Tesla was the first to popularize it, but now we have more models, both on sale and upcoming, capable of covering the same distance between charges. The one everyone's thinking about right now is the Chevrolet Bolt, but Renault has released a 200-mile ZOE as well, and Nissan is reportedly working on a LEAF that should clear the hurdle as well.After being one of the main supporters of the liquid hydrogen fuel cell solution, the Koreans from Hyundai are now getting ready to launch a battery-powered version of their Ioniq sedan . The EV is expected to debut early next year and will come with a maximum EPA-certified range of 124 miles (that's 200 kilometers).However, the Hyundai bosses are well aware that's not nearly enough anymore to persuade the public toward your brand, so Ahn Byung-ki, Hyundai 's eco-vehicle performance group director, was quick to announce the company's plans. Quoted by Automotive News , he said that "124 is not enough, and we have a plan to extend that to more than 200 by 2018."Of course, saying that is akin to taking next year's electric Ioniq off the market, because nobody in their right mind would ever buy a sub-par electric car knowing there's a better one coming just a little over a year away. But it just goes to show how important it was for Hyundai to let everyone know it was aware of its car's limitations and that it's working on it. They basically said "we know it's crap, but since it's ready, we're going to put it on sale anyway, just in case, until the improved version arrives."The Hyundai Ioniq will be sold with three powertrain options: hybrid, plug-in hybrid , and battery-powered electric.
The return of this companys products on American shores is expected to happen by 2021, as part of its global offensive plan called Push to Pass. The idea behind the scheme was to launch a global sales campaign for the corporation, which would raise profits, sales, and earnings.Evidently, a car company must also sell cars in the U.S. even if America is no longer the worlds biggest vehicle market. Second place is still a good position when it comes to volumes, and PSA Peugeot-Citroen has been absent on that market for over two decades. Because of that absence, the French corporation is missing out on sales and potential profit.However, the French cannot just modify their lineups to American standards and sell them as they are. Instead, PSA Peugeot-Citroen is expected to significantly alter its offering within the next five years, which is supposed to coincide with the moment of entry into the U.S. market. The change will come in the form of plug-in hybrid technology, which should be available for all the models in the range. Do not rule out any electric cars from the portfolio.The portfolio for the American and Canadian markets is difficult to predict at this point. Peugeot and Citroen might not return to the USA at all, but the DS brand might be the new French player on the North American market. If they choose their models wisely, Groupe PSA might have a success story just like Toyota had with Lexus in the U.S.All they have to do is come up with excellent marketing for their all-new products, which will have to match and even exceed their direct competitors in many aspects.The DS brand would be at an advantage here, because it will come with a fresh image, and it would already be integrated into the premium segment, where profit margins are usually higher.
Cintas Corp. will test a Workhorse Group Inc. E-Gen gasoline-electric hybrid step van in its delivery fleet during a six-month field test in Cincinnati, the company announced.
The field test will allow Cintas to use the vehicle in a real-world environment to determine how much it can help the company reduce emissions with an eye toward purchasing additional vehicles.
"We look forward to evaluating the Workhorse E-Gen vehicle," said Matthew Rose, Cintas' corporate director of fleet. "Based on the energy-efficient design, it appears that Workhorses unique capabilities may give us an opportunity to reduce emissions in certain delivery situations."
Cintas will deploy the vehicle on service and delivery routes.
The Workhorse E-Gen step van offers a threefold fuel economy increase over a typical gasoline-powered step van. The E-Gen power train propels the vehicle with a 2200-nm permanent magnet motor generator, along with a small internal combustion engine that turns a small electric motor to recharge the battery pack when the state of charge reaches a pre-determined level.
"Workhorse E-Gen [step vans] set a new standard for greenhouse gas reductions in the service and delivery markets, and we believe that it will set a new standard for the corporate identity uniform marketplace, an industry whose local delivery and service routes are perfectly suited for our E-Gen trucks," said Steve Burns, Workhorse's CEO.
Fox Rent A Car's affliate location at Heathrow Airport in London. Photo courtesy of Fox Rent A Car.
Fox Rent A Car has announced that many of its current affiliate partners have experienced growth and will be moving to larger rental facilities or upgrading their existing locations.
Fox affiliates in Maui, Brisbane, Australia, and four United Kingdom locations (London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, and Glasgow, Scotland) all plan to move or expand their rental location facilities to accommodate the growth they have seen in the past year.
With the help of Fox Rent A Car, we have increased our U.K. fleet over the past three years by 120%, said Paul Hanley, managing director of EasiRent Car and Van Hire. As a result, we are moving to much larger premises at both our London Heathrow and Manchester Airport locations.
Our success is exhibited by our partners success and expansions, said Jack Wetzel, director of Fox Rent A Cars affiliate division. The changes weve made to our affiliate partner vetting process, allowing us to identify the best independent car rental companies and leaders in the international marketplace, has allowed us to partner with car rental companies that share our core Fox values and culture. We continue to seek out new affiliate partners and business opportunities to expand our car rental brand to loyal Fox customers around the globe.
The first female member of a Chinese military demonstration team died in in an unrelated accident on Sunday. Yu Xu was unable to eject from the J-10 fighter she and another pilot were flying. The other pilot was able to get out but was injured in the ejection. The mishap was the latest in a string of at least five J-10 crashes in the past two years. Yu was one of 16 women in the Chinese militarys first intake of female fighter pilot trainees in 2005. She was one of four females qualified on the J-10, a single-engine jet that looks a lot like an F-16.
A few weeks ago, Yu performed as part of the August 1st aerobatics team, which flies J-10s, at the Zhuhai Air Show. The team is named for the founding date of the Peoples Liberation Army and is based at Yangcun Air Force Base near Tianjin. The morale of the aerobatics team will be hit. There has not been an incident like this for the team for a long time, Macau military analyst Anthony Wong Dong told the South China Morning Post. There were no details released on the accident.
Like everything else surrounding the future Donald Trump presidency, the predicted impact on aviation is as varied and as, well, unpredictable as the campaign that led the country to this point. Depending on who is being asked, the predictions range from doom and gloom, through cautious optimism to somewhat less cautious optimism. We didnt find any jubilation among the dozens of aviation reaction stories but the overall theme seemed to reflect a generally positive response with a healthy dose of wait-and-see. Perhaps the most curious, and quickest, reaction came from the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA). NATCA had a fractious relationship with the Republican administration of George W. Bush but wasted no time welcoming Trump and that could be a reflection of the general belief that Trump will back privatization of the air traffic organization.
We look forward to working with the new Administration to secure a stable, predictable funding stream for the NAS, NATCA President Paul Rinaldi and VP Trish Gilbert said in a joint statement. This will be essential to protecting the system and the workforce that safeguards it, while also implementing modernization efforts and providing air travelers the safety and professionalism they deserve. That mirrors NATCAs sentiment when it supported a privatization bid contained in an early version of the current FAA reauthorization but with the House and Senate now both controlled by the Republicans, the kind of legislative gridlock that hampered FAA operations at times in the previous eight years shouldnt be as much of an issue. But the pro-privatization lobby that surfaced earlier this year seems to have been re-energized by the Trump victory.
Rep. Bill Shuster, who championed privatization, won reelection last week and is still the chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. He seemed to be saying there will be another kick at that can with the Trump administration in that the FAA reauthorization expires next September. Congress must pass an FAA reauthorization bill that modernizes our aging air traffic control system and significantly improves the efficiency of our aviation system, Shuster said last week. The well-organized airline lobby is ready to advance the idea again. We want to see a reliable ATC funding model funded by the system users, not political gamesmanship so that we can plan for the long-term capital improvements the system needs to grow, Airlines For America (A4A) said in a news release last week.
There seems to be widespread hope that airports and other aviation services will get a slice of the trillion dollars Trump has said will be spent on infrastructure improvements. There never seems to be enough money for all the safety and service improvements that airports and associated organizations want to make, but Trumps pledge was to fund projects to rebuild our highways, bridges, tunnels, airports, schools, hospitals in his first 100 days in office. What the priorities will be for that funding is anyones guess.
On the manufacturing side, Trumps often-stated protectionist bent is a concern but his desire to increase military spending is a plus. China was often a target for Trumps protectionist speeches during the campaign and its also Boeings biggest offshore market. Its been less attractive for general aviation manufacturers but there remains hope that a huge market could emerge if and when China embraces Western-style aviation.
Trumps protectionism could also manifest in support for U.S. airlines opposition to the rapid expansion of state-sponsored airlines from the Middle East. International carriers like American, United and Delta have long argued against increased access to American airports by Qatar and Emirates Airlines in particular, saying the carriers are syphoning off customers on lucrative long-haul routes in violation of international standards.
Trumps call for a larger military will likely mean more security for big programs like the new B-21 stealth bomber, the P-8 Poseidon program and new tanker contracts but it could also reach down to innovative initiatives like the Textron Airland light attack Scorpion and armed versions of the T-6 Texan II.
Much has been made of Trumps existing ownership of four private aircraft, the Boeing 757 that crisscrossed the U.S. during the campaign, a Cessna Citation X and two Sikorsky S-76B helicopters. But theres no evidence that the ownership has inspired any particular fondness for private aviation. The 757 is lavishly laid out as an executive aircraft but Trump rarely acknowledges its value as a campaign or business tool.
14 November 2016 10:32 (UTC+04:00)
The Armenian armed units shattered ceasefire with Azerbaijan a total of 15 times throughout the day, Azerbaijan`s Defense Ministry reported on November 14.
The Armenian armed forces, stationed in Armenia`s Barekamavan village in Noyemberyan region and nameless hills in Berd region subjected to fire the positions of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces located in Gaymagli village in Gazakh region and Munjuglu village in Tovuz region.
The ceasefire was also violated near the Chilaburt village in Tartar region, as well as nameless hills in Tartar, Goronboy and Fuzuli regions.
For over two decades, 20 percent of Azerbaijani historical lands remain under occupation of Armenian troops. Due to the war, over 1 million of Azerbaijani population had to leave their homelands and become GDPs. Moreover, Armenian troops severely killed over 20,000 Azerbaijanis, including children, women and elders.
By ignoring four UN Security Council resolutions on immediate withdrawal from the occupied territory of Azerbaijan, as well as appropriate documents adopted by The European Parliament, the Council of Europe, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the Non-Aligned Movement, Armenia intends to preserve the status quo in the region and freezes the needed settlement of the conflict.
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14 November 2016 12:10 (UTC+04:00)
By Nigar Abbasova
Azerbaijan will soon host the International Investment Conference to increase the attraction of foreign investors to the country. The conference will be the first and largest event aimed at attracting investments from Arab countries.
The event, scheduled for December 8, will be organized by the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) and the IDB Group Business Forum in cooperation with Azerbaijan Investment Company (AIC) and Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Foundation (AZPROMO).
A source told Trend that ICD Head Khaled Al-Abudi will participate in the event.
The source mentioned that the participants will get acquainted with the most recent reforms on the improvement of business environment, investment climate in the country, incentives schemes, as well as priority sectors and favorable conditions created for investors in industrial parks.
Moreover, the participants will also consider risks and challenges for investors, as well as measures required to facilitate business doing in the country.
The conference is expected to reinforce the position of Azerbaijan on the world investment map by highlighting profitable business opportunities available in the country. Additionally, the event will also create linkages and business relations between the participants.
The trade turnover with the countries of the Persian Gulf amounted to some $200 million in January-September 2016.
Doing Business 2017 report placed Azerbaijan 65th among 190 countries in the global rankings on the Ease of Doing Business, ranking the country among 29 countries that implemented three or more reforms.
Azerbaijan is currently the leading state among CIS countries in terms of macroeconomic indices, according to CIS-STAT, while the economy of the country grew more than fivefold in the last 20 years.
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Nigar Abbasova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @nigyar_abbasova
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14 November 2016 18:12 (UTC+04:00)
By Nigar Abbasova
The prospect of significant changes to underline dynamic of the real estate market of Azerbaijan awaits buyers and sellers in the years to come.
Head of the State Committee on Property Issues Azer Bashirov stated that the country intends to revive its real estate market, mentioning that RecExpo international real estate exhibition, scheduled for November 22-24 will give a stimulus to achieve the goal.
A number of companies representing some 9 countries, including Turkey, Ukraine, Spain, Portugal, Hungary, Luxemburg and UAE will participate in the event, which will be focused on the revival of the market and attraction of foreign investors to the sector, he said at a press conference on November 14.
The event will be organized by the Committee, Elan Expo and Atlm Fuarclk, while such large companies as Gilan Holding, Absheron City, Daydream Island, Azinko, Dreamland, AMF Park, Yeni Hayat will exhibit their projects at the event.
Being a reliable investment instrument, real estate is deemed to be one of the most effective means to preserve and increase capital.
In Azerbaijan, there is no difference in the rights of foreigners and local citizens for buying a real estate. The foreign citizen, as well as the citizen of Azerbaijan can buy any property, except a land plot. Prices in the market are mainly determined by location, quality of buildings and a number of other factors.
Bashirov went on saying that the event will also exhibit a stand of the Committee, while participants will be able to get acquainted with the novelties introduced by the authority, as well as get information about privatized state facilities.
Moreover, a conference Investments in the Real Estate will be held within the exhibition.
Head of Department at the Committee Shamil Shirinov, in turn, informed that the conference will be aimed at the attraction of investments and involvement of foreign companies in the process of privatization.
The participants will be familiarized with the most recent reforms on the improvement of business environment, investment climate in the country, as well as novelties in the sphere of privatization.
Azerbaijans State Committee on Property Issues is engaged in the process of privatization of state-owned properties, while the acceleration of the process is defined as an important direction of the economic policy.
The privatization process is designed to attract both foreign and local investors, as well as improve the business environment of Azerbaijan.
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Nigar Abbasova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @nigyar_abbasova
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14 November 2016 15:22 (UTC+04:00)
By Amina Nazarli
The next auction on privatization of state property will be held on December 13, Azerbaijans State Committee on Property Issues reported.
The auction will put up for sale 101 enterprises and properties, which are 23 joint stock companies, 43 small enterprises and properties, 19 of unused non-residential areas and 16 vehicles.
Most of the 43 small objects on display for privatization are sold together with the land on which they are located.
These companies and facilities are located in Baku, Ganja, Shaki and Sumgayit, Shirvan, Sabirabad, Shamkir, Zagatala and other regions of the country.
The most expensive small state enterprise put up for auction, along with land, is "Ganja cotton mill" with a total area of 44.600 square meters. Its cost is 5.24 million manats ($3.05 million).
With regard to joint-stock companies, only 30-45 percent of their shares will be put up for sale. The activities of these companies cover the areas of construction, repair, industry, transport, processing, and others.
The portal for privatization privatization.az, launched in July 2016, reflects all necessary information about the facilities, their addresses, location, and even initial cost and aims at facilitation of the process. The website is available in two languages - Azerbaijani and English. Why Azerbaijan is special section available on the website explains the reasons and advantages of investing in the country.
The privatization process is designed to attract both foreign and local investors, as well as improve the business environment of Azerbaijan.
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Amina Nazarli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli
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14 November 2016 17:01 (UTC+04:00)
By Nigar Abbasova
Caspian Marine Services Company, which operates offshore marine support vessels, may soon expand its fleet.
The company reached a preliminary agreement with German ER Offshore on the purchase of two vessels worth at least $21 million.
The deal envisages a purchase of E.R.Stavanger and E.R. Aalesund supply vessels for offshore oil platforms.
The company said that the talks on concluding the deal are currently underway, while certain details are to be worked out.
The vessels are currently in the idle state, while a number of operations, including the delivery of vessels to the Caspian Sea, adjusting of mechanisms will be implemented, should the sides reach the agreement.
Moreover, mandatory repair of engines will be implemented in accordance with the navigable register. Additionally, work on disassembling of bridge and masts, as well as marking of electric, communication and other lines will be implemented to provide unimpeded delivery of vessels to the Caspian Sea through Volga-Don Canal.
The company said that activation of vessels is a quite difficult process, which requires a big amount of financial means, mentioning that the vessels are expected to be kept in Turkey within the next 4 months given the fact that the Canal freezes in winter. The company earlier managed to cut the cost of vessels as a result of negotiations, but the worth of each vessel is expected to stand at least at $ 10.5 million given the work to be implemented. The company will operate the vessels both in the territory of the country and outside the Caspian Sea.
Azerbaijan highly prioritizes the development of the shipping industry, while the State Program on Development of Shipping in Azerbaijan for 2016-2020 envisages a number of measures promote the sphere.
The program covers renewal of the transport and specialized offshore fleet, expansion of activities, increase of the volume of freight transportation through the territory of the country, modernization of shipbuilding and maintenance yards and improvement of the academic base of marine education, as well as implementation of certain measures to turn the country into major transport-logistics hub of international importance.
Caspian Marine Services started its operations in Azerbaijan in the early 2006. With vessels strategically deployed offshore in the Caspian Sea, the company provides a broad range of offshore support services in oil and gas exploration and production industry. The company has a strategic alliance with Azerbaijans State Oil Company (SOCAR) and Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company (ACSC).
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Nigar Abbasova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @nigyar_abbasova
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14 November 2016 12:44 (UTC+04:00)
By Laman Ismayilova
Azerbaijans National Arts Museum will host an exhibition dedicated to the 100th birth anniversary of Azerbaijans famous artist, recipient of the State Prize Maral Rahmanzade, Trend Life reported.
The exhibition featuring artist's works kept at the Azerbaijan State Art Gallery and the National Museum of Art will take place on November 15.
Talented artist Maral Rahmanzade became the first woman in Azerbaijan to depict offshore oil. Struck by the majesty of the fuel, she even settled on the Oil Rocks to get a true feeling of the lives of oilmen. This brave step by the young Azerbaijani girl, born in the heart of Baku in 1916, might still be puzzling, but it is a part of history.
She became the first Azerbaijani female artist to get a professional art education. Rahmanzade made a great contribution to the development of the modern national school of painting.
Rahmanzade is the most famous for series of easel paintings of patriotic content created during the Great Patriotic War.
One of the series is dedicated to the Soviet women during the wartime, including "People's volunteer corps", "Women in the ranks", "Partisan's daughter", and "Radio operator". Other series, were dedicated to the work of people and the home front: Work on the farm, Social activists, and The artists performing for the front-line soldiers.
Rahmanzade also worked on illustration of belles-lettres. In 1945, she designed the books Dehname by Khatai and "The land of fires" by Zohrabbeyov.
She portrayed circumstances, landscape, architecture, and costumes on numerous illustrations of The land of fires novel, following the literary description.
Rahmanzade also designed two volume poem of Jafar Jabbarly. She created a lot of lists, portraying personages of "Sevil", "Almaz", "Withered flowers" plays of Jafar Jabbarly. M.F.Akhundov's historical play "Deceived stars" was published in that very year with illustrations of Maral Rahmanzade.
The great artist illustrated also translated publications "Eugene Onegin" of A.S.Pushkin, "A Hero of Our Time" M.Y.Lermontov.
The bright and multi-faceted creativity of Maral Rahmanzadeh would gain popularity far beyond the borders of Azerbaijan and CIS countries. Her works adorn many world-renowned museums, and enjoy the same success in the most "high-profile" and authoritative exhibitions throughout the world.
For great merit in the development of national fine art, she was awarded many orders and medals. She is a People's Artist of Azerbaijan, State Prize winner, and holder of the Shohrat ("Glory") order.
Maral Rahmanzade, died on March 16, 2008.
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Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova
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14 November 2016 15:19 (UTC+04:00)
The business seminar of the year 'How the Most Successful Managers Grow Their Business in Any Market' with Brian Tracy under the Azersun Holding sponsorship was held in Baku on October 31.
The business seminar was organized by Brucke GmbH company.
At the business seminar attended by 300 participants and representatives of more than 60 best Azerbaijan companies, Brian Tracy shared his knowledge, ideas and experience aimed at a true understanding of the crisis, searching new business possibilities and its effective realization by Azerbaijan business society.
The business seminar has become an essential platform for giving new anti-crisis solutions, establishing new business contacts, obtaining some additional knowledge and getting motivation to overcome crisis business problems on the way to effective and successful development of Azerbaijan business environment.
To see how the business seminar was hold and get to know participants testimonials you can watch the following video:
Brucke GmbH company gives thanks to the sponsors, partners and participants of the business seminar and will be glad to see all of them at new business events in Baku!
Media partners of the event are Trend.az, Day.az, Milli.az, Azernews.az
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14 November 2016 11:17 (UTC+04:00)
By Amina Nazarli
In April, Armenia committed yet another armed provocation against Azerbaijan and its people, and Azerbaijans army of heroes soldiers and officers gave an adequate response to that provocation.
Azerbaijani President, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ilham Aliyev made this remark on November 12 as he was addressing the soldiers who have distinguished themselves in battles.
By conducting a successful counterattack operation, the Azerbaijani army inflicted a crushing blow to the enemy and liberated a part of the Azerbaijani lands from the occupation, said President Aliyev.
Nagorno-Karabakh and seven adjacent regions of Azerbaijan are under the control of the Armenian military and separatists since a war between Armenia and Azerbaijan ended in 1994. Negotiations lasting for over 20 years have brought little progress in resolving the conflict, though a fragile truce has been in place.
One of the most tragic conflicts in the history of the 20th century and affected the destiny of millions again aggravated on April 2 after the Armenian military units in the occupied lands started shelling Azerbaijans positions.
To protect civilian population, the Azerbaijani Armed Forces launched counter attacks and as a result, the Azerbaijani troops retook hills around the village of Talish, as well as Seysulan settlement, and also took over Leletepe hill located in the direction of Fizuli region.
Today we are in the territory of Leletepe. A few months ago this area was under occupation. We ended the occupation, said the president. A successful counterattack operation resulted in liberation of more than 2,000 hectares of land that were under occupation in the Fuzuli, Jabrayil and Aghdere regions. Today, the Azerbaijani army fully controls thousands of hectares of land.
The president also noted that the counteroffensive operation started from disadvantageous positions.
We liberated the heights, the hills from the occupiers and showed great heroism. The April battles should go into military textbooks, he said. The Azerbaijani army demonstrated its professionalism, heroism and skills in those battles.
We had martyrs, may Allah rest the souls of all our martyrs. We had wounded soldiers, officers. During a meeting with wounded soldiers and officers at the military hospital, I saw their enthusiasm. They had an only desire to quickly recover and return to the battle zones, added the president. This once again shows that the people of Azerbaijan is a great people, Azerbaijani citizens are patriots. Our soldiers and officers are ready to die for the motherland. The April battles are our valiant victory.
We are on our lands, it is Azerbaijan. Leletepe, Shusha, Khankendi are also Azerbaijan. We are on our land, said President Aliyev, adding that Azerbaijan has no claims for others lands.
We will never allow the creation of a second Armenian state on our lands. The April battles once again showed it, he stressed.
The president went on to add that a successful operation was conducted in the Fuzuli region in January 1994, and 22 villages were liberated from the occupiers.
It was a great, historic victory, noted the president, saying that the April battles are another historic victory.
He noted that the operation in Leletepe is a symbol of Azerbaijani armys heroism.
Leletepe went down in history. If the Armenian armed forces did not draw a right conclusion from the April battles, there will be many successful operations as the Leletepe operation in the future, said President Aliyev.
The leadership of Armenia must finally realize that their aggressive actions are leading them to the abyss, noted the president.
The head of state also said the Azerbaijani army showed its strength, adding that Armenia has been for many years inventing lies, myths about its army, alleging that it has an invincible army.
The April battles showed which army is invincible. The Azerbaijani army is the invincible army. The Azerbaijani army can execute any task. There is no such a military target in the occupied territories and Nagorno-Karabakh that cant be destroyed by Azerbaijans army, said President Aliyev.
He went on to add that today the Azerbaijani army is among the strongest armies, adding that the national army ranks very high in ratings of strongest armies.
President Aliyev noted that the combat readiness of Azerbaijans army stands at a high level and is rising day by day.
Discipline and order prevail in our army. Material and technical support of our army is at the highest level, he said, adding that in recent years Azerbaijan has purchased the most modern weaponry and military equipment worth billions of dollars.
The world has once again seen that Azerbaijan will never reconcile with the aggressive policy of Armenia. We must restore and will restore our territorial integrity. This is our ancestral land, our historical land, and we will return to our land, which today is still under occupation, said the head of state.
Azerbaijan is strengthening day by day. We have strong potential and a strong army. We are proud of our army, soldiers and officers, you our sons standing here face to face with the enemy. Glory to you! Azerbaijan will develop, and we will restore our territorial integrity. Thank you!, added the head of state.
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Amina Nazarli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli
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14 November 2016 11:57 (UTC+04:00)
By Trend
Donald Trump could have a strategic, economic and geopolitical interest in the South Caucasus region, Cyril Widdershoven, Middle East geopolitical specialist and energy analyst, partner at Dutch risk consultancy VEROCY and SVP MEA-Risk, told Trend on November 14.
Based on the statements made by Trump, putting American interests first, this would mean that he will have a strategic, economic and geopolitical interest in the region, he said.
Noting that the South Caucasus region is of the utmost importance for the US, the expert pointed out that major oil and gas companies are working in Azerbaijan.
Regarding the US support for such energy projects as the Southern Gas Corridor, Widdershoven said that European energy supply is also of importance to the US, as they have been pushing for oil and gas exports.
The Southern Gas Corridor is one of the priority energy projects for the EU. It envisages the transportation of 10 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian region to the European countries through Georgia and Turkey.
US-EU cooperation is and will be strong, so European views will be taken into account, he said, adding that a possible strategic support of the Eastern European countries, Baltic and Balkan, would mean that Russia's plans could still be under threat.
The love between Putin and Trump could be soon over. Support from Russia is not always taken positively inside of the US, said the expert, adding that Russia's stranglehold on EU is not an easy thing to swallow for an American president, also not for Trump.
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14 November 2016 11:36 (UTC+04:00)
By Gunay Hasanova
The large-scale exercises of Azerbaijan's Armed Forces entered the third day.
More than 60,000 members of military personnel, over 50 planes and helicopters, more than 150 tanks and armored vehicles, as well as up to 700 systems of missile and artillery forces are involved in the training.
Under the plan of the drills, movement of military equipment, warships, forces and means to the points of destinations have already been carried out.
Movement and regrouping of put on alert troops, command and control centers to the areas of operational use, means of combat aircraft to the reserve airfields, ships and boats of the Naval Forces to the operational areas, formations and military units of the Rocket and Artillery Troops to the temporary fire and starting positions have been completed.
Currently, the troops are fulfilling tasks on the effective use of modern means, control systems, weapons, and equipment in order to prevent possible actions of the conditional enemy.
The exercises are conducted according to the plan approved by Azerbaijans President, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ilham Aliyev in order to check the system of control over troops and weapons in the field.
The Azerbaijani Army, which today is considered the most modern army in the Caucasus, consists of Air Force and Air Defense Forces, the Navy, and the Land Forces.
The skills and combat readiness of the Azerbaijani army are growing year by year. The army building process in Azerbaijan is progressing as well.
The countrys armed forces regularly conduct military exercises since Azerbaijan remains in a state of war with Armenia, as Armenian forces occupy a 20 percent of Azerbaijani territory, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding regions.
A ceasefire was signed in 1994, but negotiations still continue on a long-term peace agreement.
Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts.
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Gunay Hasanova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @gunhasanova
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14 November 2016 13:24 (UTC+04:00)
By Gunay Hasanova
The foreign ministers of EU will discuss in Brussels the preparation of a new agreement on the partnership with Azerbaijan.
The discussion will take place at a meeting of foreign ministers at the EU Council in the framework of the discussion on the "Eastern Partnership, which will be held in Brussels on November 14.
A mandate to start negotiations on the new EU-Azerbaijan Strategic Partnership Agreement may be issued until the end of 2016, said Mahmud Mammad-Guliyev, Azerbaijans Deputy Foreign Minister in an interview with Trend on November 4.
Currently, bilateral relations between the EU and Azerbaijan are regulated on the basis of an agreement on partnership and cooperation that was signed in 1996 and entered into force in 1999.
Azerbaijan initiated to sign an agreement on strategic modernized partnership with the EU instead of the agreement about the association. This is not a legal document, but rather a program, a plan of action aimed at the expansion of cooperation with the EU beyond energy. The new agreement will define new directions of partnership such as education and other spheres.
The new agreement envisages the compliance of Azerbaijans legislation and procedures with the EUs most important international and trade norms and standards, which should lead to the improvement of Azerbaijani goods access to the EU markets.
Currently, the EU is Azerbaijans major trade partner. The share of European countries in Azerbaijans foreign trade was 37.12 percent in January-September 2016, according to Azerbaijans State Customs Committee.
Currently, European countries account for 27.89 and 45.87 percent of Azerbaijani import and export, respectively. European countries mainly deliver vehicles and transportation equipment to Azerbaijan and import oil products.
Azerbaijan has become a country of direct priority to the EUs strategy in its wider neighborhood since the last enlargement of the European Union in 2007. Azerbaijan affects Europes interests, mainly in a regional energy strategy.
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Gunay Hasanova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @gunhasanova
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14 November 2016 15:48 (UTC+04:00)
By Laman Ismayilova
An international conference dedicated to the 90th anniversary of the 1st Turkish kicked off in presidium of Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS) in Baku on November 14.
Entitled Common values and new challenges in Turkish scientific and cultural movement, the event is jointly organized by the Ministry of Education, the Institute of Literature named after Nizami, the Institute of Linguistics named after Nesimi and the Institute of Oriental Studies named after Academician Z. Bunyadov, Azertac reported.
President of ANAS, Academician Akif Alizade, addressing the event, recalled the order issued by President Ilham Aliyev to mark the 90th anniversary of the 1st Turkish Congress. He stressed that the document allowed to evaluate and draw conclusions from the lessons of the First Turkish Congress in social and scientific terms.
The conference will hear several reports on Turkish language, culture and integration of the Turkic peoples, the history of the Turkish lexicography, dialectology and grammar and other
ANAS is the main state research organization and the primary body that conducts research and coordinates activities in the fields of science and social sciences in Azerbaijan. It was established on 23 January 1945.
The Academy closely cooperates with different foreign research institutions and organizes international scientific workshops and conferences in Azerbaijan.
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14 November 2016 17:31 (UTC+04:00)
By Amina Nazarli
The European Council has adopted a mandate for the European Commission and the high representative for foreign affairs and security policy to negotiate, on behalf of the EU and its member states, a comprehensive agreement with Azerbaijan.
The new agreement should replace the 1996 partnership and cooperation agreement and should better take account of the shared objectives and challenges the EU and Azerbaijan face today, said the message.
The mandate was discussed in Brussels at a meeting of foreign ministers at the EU Council in the framework of the discussion on the "Eastern Partnership on November 14.
Baku has already welcomed the issuance of a mandate by the European Council.
Hikmat Hajiyev, Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry spokesman, commenting on the issue, said Azerbaijan welcomes and approves the agreement prepared by the EU on comprehensive cooperation with Azerbaijan, and the issuance of a mandate for negotiations in this area.
He emphasized the agreement will raise the cooperation to a qualitatively new level, and will create a legal framework for the comprehensive development of the Baku-Brussels relations.
In May 2015, Azerbaijan presented a draft agreement on strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and the EU, thus expressing Azerbaijan's intention to develop cooperation with EU.
The new agreement envisages the compliance of Azerbaijans legislation and procedures with the EUs most important international trade norms and standards, which should lead to the improvement of Azerbaijani goods access to the EU markets.
The EU is Azerbaijans major trade partner. Azerbaijan initiated to sign an agreement on strategic modernized partnership with the EU instead of the agreement about association. The document is a program, a plan of action aimed at the expansion of cooperation with the EU beyond energy.
The new agreement will define new directions of partnership, such as education and other spheres.
The share of European countries in Azerbaijans foreign trade was 37.12 percent in January-September 2016, according to Azerbaijans State Customs Committee.
Currently, European countries account for 27.89 and 45.87 percent of Azerbaijani import and export, respectively. European countries mainly deliver vehicles and transportation equipment to Azerbaijan and import oil products.
Azerbaijan has become a country of direct priority to the EUs strategy in its wider neighborhood since the last enlargement of the European Union in 2007. Azerbaijan affects Europes interests, mainly in a regional energy strategy.
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Amina Nazarli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli
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14 November 2016 18:00 (UTC+04:00)
By Gunay Hasanova
Ships and boats of the Naval Forces joined the large-scale exercises of Azerbaijan's Armed Forces on the third day of the drills.
The Defense Ministry reported that common readiness of military personnel participating in the exercise and operational situation in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea, as well as Naval Forces control were inspected.
Tasks on putting the Naval Forces into a state of full combat readiness, movement of a group of ships and military units to the staging areas, and operational coordination were successfully completed during the first stage of the exercises.
The aim of the exercise phase, carried out with the involvement of Navy, is the interoperability with other branches of Armed Forces in fulfilling tasks on the protection of energy infrastructure in the operational zone of the Caspian Sea, as well as the release of the ship captured by terrorist sabotage group.
More than 60,000 members of military personnel, over 50 planes and helicopters, more than 150 tanks and armored vehicles, as well as up to 700 systems of missile and artillery forces are involved in the training.
The exercises to run till November 18 conducted according to the plan approved by the President of Azerbaijan, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ilham Aliyev, involved ships and boats of the Naval Forces.
The Azerbaijani Army, which today is considered the most modern army in the Caucasus, consists of Air Force and Air Defense Forces, the Navy, and the Land Forces.
The skills and combat readiness of the Azerbaijani army are growing year by year. The army building process in Azerbaijan is progressing as well.
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Gunay Hasanova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @gunhasanova
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Afghanistan's parliament dismissed two more cabinet ministers on Sunday, ignoring pleas from the president and chief executive to halt votes that threaten an already fragile Western-backed government.
The power-sharing unity government was brokered by U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry following the disputed 2014 presidential elections, but has since been weakened by infighting between rivals.
Parliament removed the transportation and education ministers on Sunday, citing poor performance and bringing the total number of ministers dismissed to five over two days.
"President Ghani and Dr. Abdullah told MPs that their decision will deal a huge political blow to the government at this critical time and urged them to stop the process," Mirdad Najrabi, chairman of parliament's security commission, told Reuters.
Parliament on Saturday dismissed three ministers including, Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani. - Read More
14 November 2016 10:58 (UTC+04:00)
By Nigar Abbasova
Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR may soon expand its participation in the modernization of Egyptian energy industry.
Azerbaijani Ambassador to Egypt Tural Rzayev said that Egyptian side is interested in broader participation of SOCAR in the oil industry of the country.
For now, energy is deemed to be the main dimension of cooperation between the two countries. The worth of oil export from Azerbaijan to Egypt amounted to some $300 million in January-September 2016. The two countries intend to expand their cooperation in the sphere, he said.
The envoy further said that the issue of bolstering cooperation was high on agenda during the meeting between SOCAR head Rovnag Abdullayev and Egyptian side in early November.
Within his visit to Egypt, Abdullayev held talks with Egyptian Petroleum Minister Tarek El Molla.
The sides discussed the expansion of cooperation between SOCAR and the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC, a national oil company of Egypt), hailed the role of SOCAR in the in modernization and improvement of Egypts oil industry and exchanged views on the implementation of other joint projects.
The two companies, that have six-year successful energy cooperation, also signed a Memorandum of Mutual Understanding (MOU).
The agreement envisages the execution of long term oil and gas projects. Moreover, SOCAR is expected to provide nearly 2 million barrels crude oil to Egypts MIDOR and Nasr Petroleum refineries, according to Egypt Oil&Gas.
Additionally, the document covers the cooperation between the two countries in the fields of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and petrochemicals.
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Nigar Abbasova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @nigyar_abbasova
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14 November 2016 15:45 (UTC+04:00)
By Laman Ismayilova
Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR sold 199.92 million cubic meters of gas to population in October 2016.
The company reported that the total amount of consumers of Azerbaijans gas operator, Azerigaz Production Union of SOCAR, was almost 1.97 million people as of Nov. 1, 2016.
In October 2016, 11,810 new consumers were registered, says the message, 3,450 of them was from Baku, Sumgait and Absheron districts and 8,360 consumers from the countrys regions.
As of Nov. 1, 2016, 132,880 IDP families were provided with gas on preferential terms.
Azerbaijan added 310 million cubic meters of gas to its reserve in underground facilities, bringing the volume to 2.96 billion cubic meters (bcm) by mid-October.
Garadag and Kalmaz gas storages facilities, which are on the balance of SOCAR, have a capacity of approximately five bcm of gas.
SOCAR includes such production associations as Azneft (the enterprises producing oil and gas onshore and offshore), Azerkimya (the chemical enterprises) and Azerigaz (distributes gas produced in the country), as well as oil and gas processing plants, service companies, and the facilities involved in geophysical and drilling operations.
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14 November 2016 18:11 (UTC+04:00)
By Nigar Abbasova
Burkina Faso is interested in developing mutual relations with Azerbaijan, in particular, in the energy sphere, said President of Burkina Fasos Parliament Salifou Diallo.
Diallo made the remarks during his meeting with the Azerbaijani delegation led by Energy Minister Natig Aliyev in Burkina Fasos capital, Ouagadougou.
SOCAR Vice-President for Investments and Marketing Elshad Nassirov and management of the Azerkimya Production Association and SOCAR Trading company also took part in the meeting, Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR reported on November 14.
Aliyev gave thorough information about energy strategy of Azerbaijan, as well as a number of regional and international projects implemented with the participation of SOCAR.
He went on saying that Azerbaijan has an important role in the world energy market, mentioning that the country is one of the main exporters of oil and gas.
Salifou Diallo, for his part, noted that Burkina Faso is a major importer of energy and is interested in expanding ties with Azerbaijan.
Burkina Faso is dependent on energy imports, notably of oil, as the country has no known crude oil reserves or refining capacity.
SOCAR expanded its presence in Africa in 2015 by buying a 20 percent stake in Benin's Octogone Stockage de Produits Petroliers that engaged in crude storage. The project became the first direct investment of the SOCAR in West Africa.
Diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in 2004, while the sides also cooperate within such organizations as UNO, OIC and African Union, where Azerbaijan has an observer status.
Being a wholly state-owned company and headquartered in Baku, SOCAR produces oil and natural gas from onshore and offshore fields in the Azerbaijani section of the Caspian Sea.
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Nigar Abbasova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @nigyar_abbasova
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14 November 2016 14:34 (UTC+04:00)
By Gunay Hasanova
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan did not rule out a possibility of holding a referendum on Turkey joining EU to ask Turkish population whether they need EU.
The president made the remark on the board of presidential plane to journalists accompanying him.
"The European Union is trying to compel us to withdraw from this (accession) process. If they don't want us they should be clear about this, they should make a decision," Erdogan told the Hurriyet newspaper.
"Our patience is not endless. If need be, later, we could also consult our people," he said, alluding to the UK's Brexit referendum in June.
Ankara's bid to join the EU dates back to the 1960s with formal talks starting in 2005. But the process has been mired in problems, which current tensions have done nothing to help.
Turkey has a long waited for its EU membership, while each application to accede to the European Union was frustrating for the government. Turkey, holding a status of an associate member at the Economic Community -- the predecessor of the EU since 1963 -- made an official application for entry on April 14, 1987.
The European Commission has proposed in May that the European Parliament and EU Council will lift visa restrictions for citizens of Turkey if Ankara fulfills the remaining conditions for abolishing visa entries until the end of June.
The list of pre-conditions included measures to prevent corruption, negotiations on an operational agreement with Europol (the EU police office), providing judicial cooperation with all EU member states, as well as the revision of the legislation on the fight against terrorism.
However, since the July 15 coup attempt, relations between Ankara and Brussels have fallen to a low as Turkish politicians lament the EUs muted response to the attempted takeover and EU leaders criticize Turkey over widespread arrests and job suspensions in its wake.
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Gunay Hasanova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @gunhasanova
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14 November 2016 16:12 (UTC+04:00)
By Gunay Hasanova
Moscow has announced its readiness to develop military-technical cooperation with Tehran.
Iran is interested in the purchase of a wide range of Russian weapons and Moscow is ready to develop military and technical cooperation with Tehran, Sputnik quoted Zamir Kabulov, the Russian Foreign Ministrys director of the Second Asian Department, as saying.
In October, Iranian Ambassador to Russia Mehdi Sanaei said that Tehran was looking for ways to broaden the scope of defense cooperation with Moscow, even in areas that require coordination with the UN Security Council (UNSC) and need a resolution.
It is true that the Iranians have a wide range of military-purpose products they would like to buy from Russia. Naturally, some of these products tanks and fighter jets are covered by the UNSC sanctions, because there is a moratorium, Kabulov said commenting on Sanaeis statement.
It means that if we sign an agreement on the delivery of such products, we have to request for the UNSC permission in the next five, or rather, the next four years and receive such permission, he added.
Kabulov further said that his country is ready to work with Iran in the area of military and technical cooperation.
There are other goods from the sphere of military and technical cooperation that are not subject [to the UNSC sanctions]. There are no problems, but here we should act via the UNSC mechanism, unfortunately," the diplomat said.
Meanwhile, Viktor Ozerov is the Chairman of the Security and Defense Committee of the Federation Council of the Russian Federation pointed out that Iran is interested in supplies of Russian arms and equipment, including T-90 tanks, artillery systems, aircraft and helicopters, and the total volume of orders is $ 10 billion approximately.
"Such negotiations are going on, the soil is created, the portfolio is about $10 billion, said Ozerov, who visits in Iran as part of the delegation of the Federation Council.
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Gunay Hasanova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @gunhasanova
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14 November 2016 15:05 (UTC+04:00)
By Trend
The Iranian defense minister, Brigadier-General Hossein Dehqan and his visiting Chinese counterpart Chang Wanquan signed an agreement on the expansion of cooperation in defense sphere.
The agreement envisages exchanging military experience, particularly in training of personnel, as well as an all-out fight against terrorism and insecurity in the region, TASNIM news agency reported.
The agreement was signed during the ongoing visit of the Minister of National Defense of China Chang Wanquan to Tehran on November 14.
Speaking to Chang Wanquan, the Iranian minister said that upgrading ties with China in defense and military areas is a priority of Irans defense diplomacy.
Saying that the military and defense cooperation between Iran and China guarantees the peace and stability in the world as well as the region, he noted that all the regional states should be held accountable for protecting peace and stability in the Asia and Oceania region.
He further blamed the expansion of terrorism in the Middle East on foreigners, saying the region has turned into a hotspot of insecurity and crises due to the foreigners meddling in the region as well as their disrespectful behavior towards the national sovereignty of the regional states.
The Chinese ministers three-day visit takes place at the official invitation of Brigadier-General Hossein Dehqan.
Chang Wanquan is slated to meet several high-ranking Iranian officials to discuss bilateral issues as well as regional and international developments.
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14 November 2016 17:50 (UTC+04:00)
By Trend
Palestines embassy will be opened in Ashgabat during the visit of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to Turkmenistan on November 13-15, the Turkmen government reported on November 14.
Turkmenistans President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, during his meeting with Mahmoud Abbas, said that the Turkmen side will create all necessary conditions for the proper functioning of the diplomatic mission of the brotherly country, according to the message.
The two countries will celebrate the 25th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations in April 2017. The Turkmen president proposed to hold the Turkmen-Palestinian business forum in 2017, according to the message.
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14 November 2016 14:00 (UTC+04:00)
By Laman Ismayilova
Azerbaijan became the latest destination of Kazakh traveler Sergey Bondarenko, who visited over 18 countries without a penny in his pocket.
Bondarenko visits Azerbaijan, also known as the Land of Fire, for the second time. First time, the traveler visited Azerbaijan two years ago for a short period of time.
This time, the traveler decided to stay longer and enjoy the countrys beauty and hospitality.
"You have a very hospitable people. Every day someone invited me to a nearby restaurant or bought me food, as well as offered a place for sleep. Your police officers also helped me a lot. I am very thankful for that. I am very grateful for what your people dif for me, said Bondarenko talking to Day.Az.
The Kazakh traveler also shared his interesting and crazy travel adventures from around the world.
"I didn't have a visa so first of all I visited visa-free countries for Kazakhs. When I started the journey, I had no passport, only the ID card, which allowed me to visit Russia, Kyrgyzstan and Belarus. Then, my friend helped me to get a passport. Then I expanded the area and already visited 18 countries, among them Malaysia, China, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Turkey and others," said the Kazakh traveler.
Chine, a country full of culture and tradition, impressed the traveler a lot. "I really like China, and I'm really like to stay there. The only difficulty is Chinese language, he said.
Remembering how it all began, Bondarenko spoke about desperate days when as a youngster he had found himself alone and without any means to live.
I have faced a lot in my short life. I was 18 when I lost my family. My house was taken away and I was forced to live on the streets. And at that moment, I realized that it's right time to make my dream come true- to see the world, he said.
Bondarenko says that he has never afraid of the unknown. "The uncertainty doesn't scare me. There are a lot of good people willing to lend a helping hand. I have never asked for money. People voluntarily help me, he said.
Speaking about his future, the young adventurer said that he will continue this journey. "I understand what freedom is and its value. So when leaving the kilometers behind, you also leave behind bad memories and thoughts. A man can't know himself in the busy city. For example, when person drinks coffee, he does not know the price of this drink. But, now, I appreciate it all", he explained.
Now, Bondarenko is going to visit South America and stay there for a few years.
"I'm not going to spend the whole life traveling. One day, I will have a family and engage in something interesting. Also, I'm going to write the book about my adventures", said Bondarenko.
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Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova
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Significant milestone in achieving ultimate goal of commencing manufacturing of sterile injectable products at the site during 2018
Copenhagen, Denmark, November 14, 2016 / B3C newswire / -- Xellia Pharmaceuticals (Xellia), a specialty pharmaceutical company focusing on providing important anti-infective treatments against serious and often life-threatening infections, has received notice from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allowing the Company to commence packaging and distribution of drug products at its Cleveland, Ohio facilities.
The notice follows a successful cGMP inspection by the FDA conducted under the procedures of the Modified Consent Decree that Xellia entered into with the FDA in April 2016. Xellia acquired the Cleveland site in November 2015. This notice demonstrates the significant progress that Xellia has made in bringing the Cleveland site back to compliance. The Company can now initiate certain commercial activities at the newer part of the Cleveland site that involves labelling, secondary packaging and distribution of drug products manufactured at other sites.
As well as investing significantly in equipment upgrades and the facility design, Xellia has hired an experienced team of over 90 employees. This will be expanded to a staff of around 170 employees over the next twelve months as the Company prepares to start the production of sterile anti-infective injectable products during 2018. Xellia is working closely with the FDA to ensure this is achieved.
Carl-Ake Carlsson, CEO, Xellia said: The permission by the FDA to commence packaging and distribution of drug products at this site is a huge achievement for the Cleveland team on our journey towards resuming sterile product manufacturing. It is testimony to the expertise and dedication of our employees who have worked tirelessly to achieve compliance at the site.
Once up and running, this facility will significantly increase our production capacity for sterile injectable products in the US, meeting the growing needs of our customers and helping to alleviate supply shortages for vital anti-infectives. We have already received considerable interest in our contract manufacturing services from both existing customers and new prospects.
Xellia Cleveland will operate alongside the Companys existing sterile injectables production plant in Raleigh, North Carolina and Copenhagen, Denmark. The US is an important market for Xellia, generating over 40% of total sales in 2015.
About Xellia
Xellia Pharmaceuticals is a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on providing important anti-infective treatments against serious and often life-threatening infections. With over 100 years of experience Xellia is a leading developer, manufacturer and trusted supplier of fermented and semi-synthetic Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and Injectable Finished Dosage Forms (FDFs) to the pharmaceutical industry. The Company has growing sales in more than 70 countries to over 500 customers across the healthcare industry. Headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, Xellia has global facilities including operational and manufacturing capabilities in Denmark, USA, Hungary and China, and currently employs over 1,200 people.
Xellia is a leading supplier of vancomycin and colistimethate sodium (CMS) which together combat life-threatening, multi-drug resistant bacterial infections across Gram-positive and Gram-negative species. Xellia is also developing novel antibiotics effective against MDR Gram-negative bacteria in a development project with SINTEF Materials and Chemistry (Trondheim) and the Statens Serum Institut (Copenhagen), supported by a grant from the Research Council of Norway.
Since July 2013, Xellia has been wholly owned by Novo A/S, the holding Company of the Novo Group.
Contacts
Xellia Pharmaceuticals
Carl-Ake Carlsson
CEO
+45 32 64 55 00
Niels Lynge Agerbk
General Manager, Xellia Cleveland
+1 440 359 2055
Instinctif Partners (media relations)
Melanie Toyne-Sewell / Eileen Paul / Jen Lewis
+44 (0)1260 296 500
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53 patients treated with PD fluid designed to improve outcomes of PD
Cross-over trial design to provide validity of several times larger conventional trials
Data on cytoprotective effect of PD-protec to be presented at ASN Meeting
Vienna, Austria, November 14, 2016 / B3C newswire / -- Zytoprotec, a biopharmaceutical company developing innovative dialysis fluids with cytoprotective properties, announced today that the last patient has completed treatment in a Phase II study with its lead product, PD-protec. The Company expects results of this trial to be available in the first quarter of 2017.
PD-protec is a novel fluid for peritoneal dialysis (PD), a live-saving therapy for patients with chronic kidney failure. Current PD fluids tend to damage abdominal tissue, limiting the use of this convenient and cost effective therapy. By contrast, PD-protec is designed to alleviate, or even avoid, the damage from current fluids. The product is targeting a significant improvement of the clinical outcomes of PD, allowing more patients to stay longer on this therapy and thus to lead more mobile and independent lives compared to haemodialysis.
53 patients were treated with PD-protec in a randomized, double-blinded Phase II clinical trial.
We are very pleased that we will soon be analyzing clinical and molecular biology data from this study, commented Bernhard Zinner, Managing Director of Zytoprotec. Due to its innovative cross-over design, the results of this study will have the statistical power of a conventional study with several times the number of patients.
Upon final evaluation of the results we plan to prepare PD-protec for a pivotal study together with industrial or other partners, Zinner continued. Meanwhile, we are pleased that data on the cytoprotective effect of PD-protec will be presented at the upcoming Annual Meeting of the American Society of Nephrology (ASN) in Chicago.
Prof. Dr. Uwe Schlokat, Chairman of the Zytoprotec Board, stated: Over the next decade the number of patients suffering from chronic kidney failure is expected to grow to almost 4 million worldwide, posing an immense and increasing burden on patients and health care systems. As PD has obvious benefits for both, a fluid that allows patients to stay longer on this therapy will be a major contribution to the treatment of chronic kidney failure in general, and to the quality of life of those affected.
About Zytoprotec
Zytoprotec is a biopharmaceutical company based in Austria, Europe. Its lead product, PD-Protec, is being developed to improve the treatment of patients with end stage renal failure. Currently, treatment with peritoneal dialysis (PD) is limited as the fluids used in this procedure inherently damage the peritoneal tissue. PD-Protec includes a cytoprotective compound, whose beneficial effects have been discovered by one of Zytoprotec's founders, Prof. Dr. Christoph Aufricht. The compound is expected to protect peritoneal tissue, prolonging the time patients can stay on PD.
In previous Phase I and Phase I/II clinical trials PD-protec has been shown to be safe and to restore peritoneal cellular stress response while attenuating sterile inflammation caused by conventional PD fluids.
Contacts
Zytoprotec
Bernd Seibel, Managing Director (Financing)
Bernhard Zinner, Managing Director (Business Development)
Mariannengasse 28/2
1090 Vienna
Austria, Europe
+43-1-406 20 02
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Media contact
Frank Butschbacher
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Rep. Keith Ellison formally announced his candidacy to be chairman of the Democratic National Committee. I am proud to announce my candidacy for Chair of the Democratic National Committee, and if given the opportunity to serve, I will work tirelessly to make the Democratic Party an organization that brings us together and advances an agenda that improves peoples lives, Ellison said in a statement released Monday afternoon.
The Minnesota congressman had been laying the groundwork to run for DNC chairman even before the deep losses Democrats suffered on Election Day. In recent days, his efforts have begun to come into public view. Ellison, who played a prominent role in Sen. Bernie Sanders presidential campaign, has already been endorsed for chairman by Sanders and Sens. Chuck Schumer and Harry Reid, as well as Rep. Raul Grijalva, co-chairman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus. Sen. Elizabeth Warren also said.
Former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean has already announced that hes running for DNC chairman and the field of candidates is likely to expand. Last week, Dean argued that Ellison couldnt adequately serve as both DNC chairman and as a member of Congress. You cannot do this job and sit in a political office at the same time. Its not possible, Dean said in an interview on MSNBC. That view is shared by critics of Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultzs tenure as DNC chairwoman. But Ellisons supporters insist that the Minnesota congressman can juggle both jobs.
Bakersfield, CA (93308)
Today
Cloudy with occasional rain...mainly this evening. Low near 50F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%..
Tonight
Cloudy with occasional rain...mainly this evening. Low near 50F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%.
President-elect Donald J. Trump announced what he called his senior leadership team Sunday, naming his White House Chief of Staff as well as a "chief strategist and senior counselor."
Republican National Committee Chair Reince Priebus named Chief of Staff
Breitbart News Executive Chairman Steve Bannon named "Chief Strategist"
Both men will work as "equal partners" in administration
The announcement of Trump's White House Chief of Staff has been expected for most of the weekend. Trump named Republican National Committee Chair Reince Priebus to the post.
It is truly an honor to join President-elect Trump in the White House as his Chief of Staff, said Priebus in an official release. I am very grateful to the President-elect for this opportunity to serve him and this nation as we work to create an economy that works for everyone, secure our borders, repeal and replace Obamacare and destroy radical Islamic terrorism. He will be a great President for all Americans.
Trump also named Brietbart News Executive Chairman Stephen K. "Steve" Bannon as "Chief Strategist and Senior Counselor to the President." Bannon previously worked with Trump as CEO of his presidential campaign.
I want to thank President-elect Trump for the opportunity to work with Reince in driving the agenda of the Trump Administration, added Bannon. We had a very successful partnership on the campaign, one that led to victory. We will have that same partnership in working to help President-elect Trump achieve his agenda.
Trump's statement on the appointments said the two men would work as "equal partners" within the administration, effectively continuing a partnership that began during the campaign.
Priebus and Bannon, according to the statement, would also aid Vice-President-elect Mike Pence to help lead the transition process in the run-up to Inauguration Day.
A man authorities believe is responsible for murdering a Hillsborough County woman was arrested in Marietta, Georgia.
Latoya Smith, 30, was found dead on Oct. 20
Boyfriend Jovan Huggins, 23, was an immediate suspect
Huggins was arrested in Marietta, Georgia
Investigators in the Bay area have had a warrant out for Jovan Huggins, since Latoya Smith was murdered on October 20.
Cobb County deputies in Georgia responded to a vagrant call on November 9 near an exercise gym. They found Huggins sleeping outside of the business.
After properly identifying the 23-year-old man, he was taken into custody.
A Tampa Police Homicide Detective traveled to Georgia to interview Huggins about the murder case.
He is currently in a Cobb County jail awaiting extradition back to Hillsborough County where he will face charges for the shooting death of Smith.
On Oct. 20 Smith, 30, a mother of three children, was located in the roadway on West Flora Street. She had suffered a fatal head injury.
Witnesses were able to establish that the Smith had been with her new boyfriend, Huggins, a short time prior to her being located in the road. At the time, Huggins was wearing a red shirt and black shorts.
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The city of Beaumont hopes to bet $85,000 on the roulette wheel of economic development and turn it into $51 billion.
The likelihood of the croupier pushing over that much in winnings is remote - unrealistic, perhaps - but the prospect of that much on the table is tantalizing.
Those stacks of chips include everything from industrial mega-projects, one of which - involving Exxon Mobil's polyethylene plant expansion along U.S. 90 west of the Beaumont Municipal Airport - will be announced at noon Monday, to smaller, ground-level efforts by the University of Texas Medical Branch's new health clinic at the Gateway Shopping Center.
These efforts, great and small, are supported by the city's annual contract with the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce to perform as its economic development corporation.
The city's share is $85,000, approved last week by City Council.
Specifically, the money is for retention of existing jobs, new business creation, expansion of existing business and attraction of new employees.
If that happens, builders could put up new houses. Retailers will take note and select local sites for new stores.
Regina Lindsey, the Chamber's president and chief executive, said it's unrealistic to expect $51 billion worth of new development, but a 10th of that is still $5.1 billion, which makes $85,000 seem like pocket change.
Beaumont rankings On Forbes Magazine's Best Places lists of top 200 cities - No. 14 - cost of doing business - No. 166 - job growth - No. 185 - best place for business or career - No. 192 - education - Median household income - $42,815 - Family median income - $49,500 - Median home price - $143,000 - Unemployment rate - 6.7 percent - Recent job growth - 0.79 percent - Future job growth - 34.8 percent Sources: Forbes.com, October 2016, and Sperling's BestPlaces.net See More Collapse
Still, a person could buy three new pickups or two fishing boats or fund the city's entire $65,000 grant for nutrition services for the elderly and the homeless and still have $20,000 left over.
The question becomes what return taxpayers get on their $85,000 investment.
Return on investment
"We do a lot of the same functions (as an EDC), but we can't give out incentives, like Port Arthur," Lindsey said. "The city gets a better return on investment because it's a lot less money."
The Chamber also agrees to spend $100,000 or more from its own sources - private, dues-paying members - for the economic development program.
An example of the joint effort between the city, the Chamber and other outfits, such as Entergy Texas, with a stake in expansion is the Exxon Mobil polyethylene plant expansion, for which the city rezoned a parcel of land on the plant's east side to accommodate construction.
Called BPEX (Beaumont Polyethylene Plant Expansion), the expansion would employ 1,400 construction workers at peak and create 40 permanent operating jobs, Exxon Mobil spokesman Lee Dula said in mid-October.
If it proceeds, the expansion could add a production line for growing market demand for products that deliver lighter packaging weight, less energy consumption and reduced emissions.
Exxon Mobil is considering another project at its Beaumont refinery, which already has two others under construction.
A new plant, being built from the ground up, is Natgasoline, worth at least $1 billion, along the Neches River.
While the expansions scale dizzying heights in dollar terms, they don't represent the same kind of economic promise as new stores in town or new rooftops that retailers want to see when deciding whether to move to Beaumont.
Job sources
Lindsey said 85 percent of new jobs come from existing business.
Among the ground-level expansions could be one on a recently cleared patch of land along the south side of Phelan Boulevard west of Lucas Drive.
Lindsey said she can't reveal who is developing the acreage or what it might be.
Likewise, real estate developer Sam Parigi said he couldn't reveal who or what might be developing a recently cleared parcel on Fannett Road west of U.S. 69.
Home sales are another activity sector that can have an outsized impact.
The Texas A&M University Real Estate Center reported that in September 108 homes sold for a combined $17.9 million at an average price of $166,000, bringing down the inventory to 368 listings with an "inventory" of 3.9 months, meaning a desirable home would be sold in about 90 to 100 days.
That's down from 5.8 months in September 2015, a sign that demand is higher than supply is deep.
"That points to a lot of good for Beaumont," Lindsey said.
Karisa Tinsely, president of the Beaumont Board of Realtors, said the median price of a home in Beaumont went up 18 percent in the last year, to $148,450. Median means half of sales are above or below that point. Tinsely said three-fourths of home sales are in the range up to $199,999, and a quarter are from $200,000 to $500,000.
"We are continuing to see multiple offers on good homes in good locations for homes in the $80,000 to $175,000 range," she said.
Northwest Parkway
The city is about to start its newest street project, called Northwest Parkway, which will open up about a square mile of previously inaccessible land between Major Drive and Parkdale Mall for residential and retail growth, Lindsey said.
"The retail sector has a tight model. They look at rooftops. That drives decisions on placement. They look at home sales and whether incomes are rising," she said. "Having parcels open with growing home sales is very promising."
Many business decisions slow down in an election year, but Lindsey said the Chamber is talking to a lot of people.
"We're answering requests from the governor's office. If we qualify under the criteria, we get inquiries from site selectors," she said. "We're seeing it from energy, manufacturing and chemical industries."
Beaumont also is attractive because it is a federal air quality attainment area. That helps with emissions permitting, she said.
Beaumont's weaknesses include out-migration of young professionals because of the perception that quality of life is lacking, she said.
Recent problems with the Beaumont Independent School District seem not to be an obstacle because of strong home sales in the city, she said.
Election effect
President-elect Donald Trump's animosity toward current international trade agreements, as expressed in the recent campaign, could dampen otherwise strong economic news.
The Trans-Pacific Partnership is likely dead, Lindsey said. That would have opened 40 percent of the world's consumers to American products, she said.
A revision of the North American Free Trade Agreement also could jeopardize trade with Mexico.
"We export a lot to Mexico," Lindsey said.
A recent vote by the British to withdraw from the European Union, called BREXIT, also could blunt local exports.
The Chamber provides "certificates of origin" for companies that export to the United Kingdom.
"We were issuing seven or eight a month through August. But not since," she said. "What is a President Donald Trump going to do? If you can get a better agreement, that's one thing. If you get protectionist, that's another."
Lindsey said Turkish companies have a lot of interest in developing industry in Beaumont. If there is backlash against Muslims, that could have an economic cost locally, she said.
"There are too many unknowns," she said.
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Safeway Driving, a Houston-based driving school that offers custom training based on where students live and go to school, wants to expand to Southeast Texas.
The company is in talks with six area high schools West Brook, Lumberton, Nederland, Orangefield, Little Cypress-Mauriceville and Bridge City to implement driver's education programs in the fall of 2017, said Vice President Ann Littmann.
In addition to the basics, practice drives in Southeast Texas will focus on what to pay attention to when navigating country roads, said Littmann. By comparison, students in Houston learn how to weave through the city's intricate highway system while drivers in Austin learn how to control a vehicle's speed on hilly roads, she said.
Safeway Driving instructors are equipped with an iPad that contains notes about the student, including how they performed in previous practice drives. Parents also have access to the notes, as well as a tracking system that tells them where the car is in real-time, Littmann said.
The practice drives accompany a 32-hour online course broken up into 16 two-hour sessions, which must be completed within three months, Littmann said. After the third course, drivers can take their permit test and begin scheduling drive times.
Safeway Driving also offers a course for students on the autism spectrum, according to Littmann.
Driver's education packages meet the state minimum license requirement and include the online course, a state permit test, a state alcohol course credit for insurance discounts and at least seven
hours of driving and observation. Prices start at $499.
More: safewaydriving.com
Have an item for In the Works? Email LocalNews@BeaumontEnterprise.com.
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Authorities are searching for a suspect involved in a south side shooting who sent a victim to a local hospital late Sunday evening, according to the Beaumont Police Department.
The shooting happened around 6 p.m. at the 900 block of Bingman, officials said.
A Southeast Texas housing developer is suing the City of Port Neches, alleging city officials blocked the construction of a new apartment complex after residents made racially motivated complaints, according to a federal lawsuit filed earlier this month.
Jeff Akhtar, a developer who planned to build a 140-unit complex on Twin City Highway and Eighth Street, claims in his suit filed on Nov. 4 that Port Neches officials had no grounds to challenge the project, which already had been approved by the city's Zoning Board of Adjustments.
Akhtar bought the Port Neches property in November 2015 with the intention of building a three-story apartment complex, according to the suit.
That same month, the zoning board granted three variances to allow Akhtar to increase the usual 18 dwelling units per acre to 23; increase the maximum of 12 dwelling units under one roof to up to 49; and increase the height of the building from two stories to three.
Akhtar's request for a three-story complex was critical to the project, the lawsuit states.
"The surrounding area to the complex was unsightly, including a mobile home park of which the complex would shield from view," the lawsuit states.
Residents protested the complex during a hearing last year. Akhtar claims in his suit that some made disparaging comments about him being a Muslim.
The Port Neches City Council attempted to rescind the variances in late November 2015, eventually filing suit against its own zoning board.
The lawsuit between the city and its zoning board is still pending.
Akhtar, who names Port Neches Mayor Glenn Johnson and the city council as co-defendants in his suit, is seeking damages of more than $75,000.
Earlier in 2015, Akhtar met resistance from Groves residents when he announced plans to expand his Axis Manor Apartments on 25th Street, which was described by neighbors as being unkempt.
Groves Mayor Brad Bailey said during a May 2015 town hall meeting that Axis Manor's rental prices - about $475 per month - attract a "certain type of person," alluding to criminals.
Akhtar, who said during the meeting with Groves residents and officials that he was "ashamed of what (Axis Manor) looks like," later pulled the permit request.
The Port Neches complex was not intended to be low-income housing. The average rent for the apartments would be $900 a month, according to Akhtar's lawsuit.
While the proposed complex would fall in the Port Neches city limits, it would be zoned for Nederland ISD.
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In a commercial that aired in the waning weeks of the recent election campaign, Jefferson County Republican Party Chair Garrett Peel carefully noted that the presidential race was "interesting" and then, without mentioning Donald Trump, launched straight into the merits of the local GOP and its candidates.
Meanwhile across the state, officials apprehensive about how Trump's polarizing candidacy could hurt local office-seekers tried to keep a safe distance.
In the end, though Trump captured traditionally red Texas by fewer votes than any presidential candidate in decades, his straight-talking message of middle-class empowerment might have been the key to the Jefferson County GOP's belated emergence in a region long dominated by Democrats.
>> Scroll through the gallery above to see how Jefferson County voted in national, state and county races.
Trump became the first GOP presidential candidate to carry Democrat-leaning Jefferson County, and Jefferson County Republicans rode the phenomenon.
Republican candidates for sheriff and two judicial seats narrowly lost but threatened all Tuesday night to pull off a major upset of the local Democratic establishment.
Peel pointed out that Republicans registered the greatest number of straight-ticket ballots ever, with 24,598, which represented significant increases from 2008 and 2012.
Experts say the president-elect helped re-energize the party by tapping into the frustrations of white, working-class voters, regardless of their previous party affiliation.
Jefferson County Clerk
A vision for growth
Trump's victory in Jefferson County and the down-ballot boost he provided for local Republicans can be explained by the same factors that enabled him to flip traditionally blue states like Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Michigan. Jefferson County stands in sharp contrast to Texas counties like Bexar, Fort Bend and Harris, where Trump's presence at the top of the ticket adversely affected local Republican candidates.
"Unlike the case throughout most of Texas - especially in large urban counties like Harris and Bexar, where Trump represented a drag on the GOP ticket - in Jefferson County, Trump boosted the performance of down-ballot Republicans," said Mark P. Jones, a political science professor at Rice University.
"Jefferson County retains a significant share of Anglo 'Reagan Democrats' who have retained a tradition of voting Democratic. But this cycle, like their peers in the Upper Midwest, they saw in Donald Trump a candidate who better represented their vision for the country and anger towards a governing elite they feel does not have their best interests at heart."
Former Jefferson County GOP Chair Billy Oliver said Trump's message resonated in a Beaumont-Port Arthur metro area that has seen little economic growth in the past few decades while much of Texas has thrived.
Oliver said Southeast Texas has flatlined since the early 1900s oil boom, and the closing of factories across the country has stifled job opportunities for blue collar workers.
"We save our country by manufacturing everything we consume again like we used to," Oliver said. "Trump talked to the working people and told them the reasons why all of these factories have closed and nothing says Made in America anymore."
Future bids will be no-Trump
Jefferson County Democratic Party Chair Cade Bernsen cautioned against the conclusion that Republicans have overthrown the county.
Bernsen acknowledged that Trump helped make local races closer but said the Democrats' victory in local races shows the party can withstand a GOP surge.
"This was their best shot," Bernsen said. "The Trump phenomenon still wasn't enough to win the local races here. This was the highwater mark for the Republican Party in Jefferson County, as good as it gets for them."
Overall voter turnout for the presidential election was lower in Jefferson County than in 2008 and 2012.
Both Trump and Clinton received fewer votes than either Barack Obama, Mitt Romney or John McCain in the previous elections.
Bernsen showed no concern over losing white working class voters in the local Democratic party. He attributed Clinton's failure here to low turnout from Bernie Sanders supporters.
Clinton lost to Trump in Jefferson County by only 424 votes, while more than 4,400 voters here picked Sanders in the March primary election.
Nationwide, the Democratic Party is undergoing uncertain realignment, Bernsen said.
Economic globalization is pushing away some Democrats, creating "a more modern, cosmopolitan party that appeals to minorities," Jones said.
A different role for unions
Robert Nebout, a union leader for the Iron Workers Local 135 covering the upper Texas Gulf Coast and Southeast Texas, said, "it's pretty obvious some of our members sided with Trump this election."
Nebout said older and younger union members were split on which issues were more important.
While the older members stressed worker issues, some of the younger ones focused on more personal issues like the Second Amendment, Nebout said.
Clinton's push for stricter gun regulations, as well as concerns about her integrity, drove away some of the Southeast Texas working class, according to union leaders.
Richard "Hoot" Landry, an international rep for the United Steelworkers union, said it seemed "almost everybody disliked (Clinton)" in Texas.
Landry said unions generally disregard such single issues as gun control and instead evaluate candidates according to broader criteria.
Members might see things differently.
"Elections today are very different than what they were in the past," said Landry, a union member for the past 43 years. "We've tried to identify (candidates) we believe help us the most and that's the message we continue to send our memberships. We do not try to tell anybody how to vote, or speak to the moral issues that they live with.
"We urge them to consider workers' safety, bad trade deals and legislation that affects our membership," Landry said. "We try to keep them informed, but the morality of elections now is taking over."
It could swing back at some point, union leaders said.
"You've got a lot of younger members that haven't been working under Republicans and don't know what it's like," Nebout said. "They're going to experience that now."
BScott@BeaumontEnterprise.com Twitter.com/BrandonKScott
It's tempting to wish that President-elect Trump would take Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller off our hands and make him the secretary of agriculture, as the new administration is reportedly considering. But as much as many Texans would love to be rid of Miller and his many missteps, we can't inflict him on the rest of the nation. Miller is barely managing to handle his current state ag job. Giving him national responsibilities for agriculture would soon be regretted by America's farmers and ranchers.
We won't bother to list all of Miller's gaffes; there are too many. But his latest one was a doozy - calling Hillary Clinton a vulgar term on Twitter, and then either blaming it on a staffer or claiming it was a retweet. (His explanations varied.) Neither excuse, of course, sufficed. If he hires staffers like that, what's wrong with him? And retweeting vile stuff you run across is hardly acceptable either.
Here were the five most read Becker's ASC Review gastroenterology/endoscopy stories for Nov. 7 to Nov. 11, 2016.
1. AGA encourages gastroenterologists to watch 3 key policy areas
Click here
2. Physicians accept blame for Joan Rivers' death: 8 key notes on the Yorkville Endoscopy settlement
Click here
3. American Gastroenterological Association to host drug development conference: 3 things to know
Click here
4. 28 starting salaries for specialty physicians GI comes in 5th
Click here
5. ACG names Dr. Carol Burke president: 5 things to know
Click here
As hospitals and health systems transition to alternative payment models, many are seeking answers on how to best navigate changing reimbursement levels.
In January 2015, HHS said it wanted 30 percent of all Medicare provider payments to fall under an alternative model, which includes accountable care organizations, patient-centered medical homes or bundled payments, by the end of 2016. Last March, HHS said it has already achieved this goal. By 2018, the benchmark is to have half of all Medicare provider payments fall under an alternative model.
At Becker's Hospital Review 5th Annual CEO + CFO Roundtable on Nov. 8, experts seasoned in healthcare finance discussed how their entities are working to stay ahead of the curve. During a panel titled, "Observations and thoughts on changing reimbursement levels: How to thrive," the panel emphasized why the revenue cycle management process and financial planning are critical for reimbursement success.
"For our hospital, about 70 percent of the funding is activity based, so it's based on the patients we serve and the clinical diagnosis and the case mix index. So it's really important for us to capture the right documentation right upfront on admission the postal code, zip code, where the patient is from because that's how funding comes back to us, and it floats through a system of clinical documentation, physician documentation, medical record," said John Kurvink, vice president of corporate services and CFO of Georgian Bay General Hospital in Ontario, Canada.
But capturing the right documentation upfront is not always an easy task, according to Edward Gaines, chief compliance officer for Zotec Partners, which provides billing services as well as management services to physician practices.
"On the front end, providers don't always get demographics and insurance right [for patients], and that creates problems on the back end in terms of resolving that and avoiding friction in the revenue cycle," he said.
That front-end misstep can be even more likely when a mix of clinicians, including mid-level providers and residents, are accessing the EMR. But new and emerging technology platforms and solutions can help facilitate more accurate documentation, added Mr. Gaines.
Another important step in achieving reimbursement success is preparing for the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act final rule. The final rule is a landmark payment system for Medicare physician fees that replaces the sustainable growth rate formula.
Physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists and certified registered nurse anesthetists who bill more than $30,000 a year or provide care for at least 100 patients under traditional, fee-for-service Medicare will be subject to MACRA's Merit-Based Incentive Payment System beginning Jan. 1.
While the New Year is approaching, there is time to adjust to the final rule. That's because under the final rule, providers may opt out and not send CMS any data in 2017. Those who opt out will receive an automatic 4 percent negative Medicare payment adjustment in 2019. However, Mr. Kurvink noted that the bar is low for hospitals to avoid this penalty by submitting data for just one quality measure or improvement activity.
Still, Joe Barnes, CFO of Summersville (W. Va.) Regional Medical Center, who has been at his job since last April, said medical staff at his facility have been resistant to the changes in payment models.
"They're very resistant so we have to play catch up quickly so that's what we'll do," he said.
Panelists also addressed how financial planning amid reimbursement changes are impacting services at their entities.
Greg Klugherz, senior vice president and CFO of CentraCare Health in St. Cloud, Minn., said for his facility in St. Cloud, it's an opportunity to change their portfolio by re-evaluating low-volume services and enhancing services in greater demand by the community.
"We pay attention to people leaving our area for services we're capable of providing ...We're paying attention and trying to build patient loyalty," he said.
But community demand and reimbursement pressures are often not the only factors administrators have to balance when making service decisions. At Georgian Bay General Hospital, officials at one time thought the hospital should close the obstetrics unit. However, the organization decided not to close the unit after seeing strong support from the community.
Local residents made it clear they "wanted their babies born in their community. So now we're going to collaborate with a larger facility for those services," Mr. Kurvink said.
All of the panelists agreed clinical affiliations and strategic partnerships will continue to be key as hospitals navigate a changing reimbursement environment.
Panelists also agreed patient experience which hasn't historically been a significant focus for the finance department is an increasing relevant discussion topic for CFOs in a value-based reimbursement model.
Mr. Klugherz said patient experience is a particularly important consideration in managing the revenue cycle, because it impacts the public image of a hospital.
Overall, Mr. Gaines said, hospitals and health systems have an opportunity and a responsibility to better engage and educate patients on the revenue cycle, which will ultimately lead to reimbursement success.
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A panel of CFOs shared their thoughts on some of the most pressing issues CFOs address at Becker's Hospital Review 5th Annual CEO + CFO Roundtable on Nov. 9, 2016.
With physician shortages affecting hospitals nationwide, CFOs are doing whatever they can to make sure their systems are properly staffed.
Sandwiched by major health systems Donald Longpre, CFO of North Ottawa Community Health System in Grand Haven, Mich., is experiencing the shortage first hand.
"Physicians were leaving and going in all other directions," Mr. Longpre said.
The competition his health system faces has created several challenges for Mr. Longpre. Not only does he have to bring in specialists that aren't already in the area to avoid a duplication of service, but he has to consider the long standing relationships patients may have with their physicians.
"I did not anticipate that we'd have to combat that," Mr. Longpre said.
Amy Fioria, CPA and CFO at Goshen (Ind.) Health is also combating a shortage. Her system in Northern Indiana experiences difficulty adding high quality physicians to her staff; it has forced her to get creative.
"We're starting to use more nurse practitioners because of the physician shortage," Ms. Fioria said. "It addresses the access to care issue."
Her system also scaled back the services it offers to ensure that it gets the most out of its staffing costs.
R. Jason Standifird, CFO at EmCare in Englewood, Colo., and his national physician practice for hospital-based specialties are 90 percent fully recruited. However, his health system is still about 1,000 physicians short, a trend he doesn't "see changing anytime soon."
One strategy to combat the physician shortage is to ensure physicians are practicing at the top of their licenses. "We're taking those administrative tasks that are not a physician treating a patient off their plate and it helps drive better efficiency through that program at the right cost to address that shortage," Mr. Standifird said.
Another issue facing hospitals is a stagnant reimbursement rate. Hospitals are now looking to lower the provider based cost of care.
Ms. Fioria said her system has to become a little bit tougher with its spending and start considering partnerships with health systems that are making profits on certain specialties Goshen does not.
"From a pure cost perspective we need to get smarter and lower utilization," she said. "At the same time you have to grow. You have to know what service lines will be profitable and stay in those. We have a hard time stopping what we've already been doing but we try to realize that we don't have to do everything and be everything. We just have to provide access to our patients for that."
Ms. Fioria suggested examining the service lines that are doing well, working to tighten the ship to make them more profitable and partnering the with other organizations to fill the deficiencies.
Mr. Standifird believes lowering utilization and outsourcing care is a real possibility in the current health system picture.
"You have to become more mindful of appropriate utilization." Mr. Standifird said.
Mr. Longpre had one example of how his system is lowering utilization. For example, he identified a patient that had gone to the emergency room 97 times in one year. Although it helped add to the profit margin for the emergency department, it was creating an irregularity. The health system convinced the man to go to an urgent care facility instead of the ER, which helped to increase utilization rates.
This article was updated on Nov. 22, 2016 to correct the following: it stated that EmCare was 10,000 physicians short of its recruitment goal. It is 1,000 short. It also mislabeled EmCare as a health system. It is a national physician practice for hospital-based specialties. We regret those errors.
Yale New Haven (Conn.) Health selected Richard D'Aquila to serve as president.
Here are three notes:
1. Mr. D'Aquila will continue to serve in his current role as president of Yale New Haven Hospital.
2. Having joined Yale New Haven Hospital in 2006 as executive vice president and COO, the hospital named Mr. D'Aquila president in 2012.
3. He has played an instrumental role in the integration of Yale New Haven and the Hospital of Saint Raphael in New Haven in 2012.
Throughout Donald Trump's campaign, the president-elect vowed to change America's healthcare by repealing and replacing the ACA and favoring a free-market approach over increased government oversight.
His proposals like repealing the ACA, expanding health savings accounts, reestablishing high-risk insurance pools and allowing states to administer Medicaid through block grants, among other policies may now come to fruition. Panelists at the Becker's Hospital Review 5th Annual CEO + CFO Roundtable on Nov. 9 discussed the implications of such policies on the healthcare industry.
Here are four ways healthcare leaders think the election will affect healthcare and the ACA.
1. Uncertainty over the ACA's repeal and replacement timeline. "There will be this repeal and replace movement [of the ACA], and a lot of the replace will include the current. But what's the real politics of this and how long do you think this will take?" Joseph Lupica, chairman of Newpoint Healthcare Advisors, asked panelists.
Steve Rice, area president of physician services at Integrated Healthcare Strategies, says once the outcome of the election begins to set in, President-elect Trump will need to shift gears from lobbying for an election to running the country. However, Mr. Rice says it is unclear how quickly that will happen.
"Coming out hard and saying I'm just going to rip off the Band-Aid as fast as I possibly can in my opinion, I don't think that's going to happen," Mr. Rice says. "It'll have to be more thoughtful. I know that's counter to the way Donald Trump talks, but hopefully what will happen is the team he puts together will allow him to function in a way that if there is repeal, if there is replace, there's some rigor underneath [those words]."
However, John Cacciamani, CEO of Philadelphia-based Chestnut Hill Hospital, says he thinks the process may be "faster than you think in terms of timeline. [Republicans are] going to see that they got two years to make sure they can get this deal done."
2. Decisions about what will remain of the ACA. A concern for the poor and uninsured needs to be sustained by the president-elect, Lyman Sornberger, chief healthcare strategy officer at Capio Partners, says.
"He's going to try to commit that he's for the underinsured in some way, shape or form. To abort that too quickly or abolish it would be a career suicide," Mr. Sornberger says. "I think he'll create a more competitive market, which I think Hillary was trying to move toward with ACA evolution."
Another element the Trump administration may maintain is the value-based care momentum carried by the ACA, says Alison Tothy, MD, chief experience and engagement officer and associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Chicago Medicine. Dr. Tothy says she hopes "that patient-centered care and the intersection of quality, safety and experience really won't disappear from the true meaning of how we design healthcare in the future."
3. Decisions about what will be eliminated from the ACA. Mr. Cacciamani says that when one looks at the progress made over the past eight years, the value equation has not moved much under the ACA. While he agrees support for the poor and uninsured through Medicaid should be kept, he thinks a lot of the bill's aspects will not be maintained.
"Everything from EHR economic support to ACOs we haven't made much progress as a country," he says. "I think there's a lot that's going to be taken away. I think it's going to be shelled for the most part."
4. Development of new options. In terms of possible new paths from the ACA, Mr. Cacciamani says he thinks the incoming administration is going to look at a voucher system and operate to make sure as many Americans as possible have health insurance while avoiding constricting regulatory oversight.
Mr. Sornberger says if Mr. Trump can extend an olive branch to House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.), he could evolve Mr. Ryan's already constructed plan. Mr. Rice added if a new plan emerges, it will need the full support of payers to succeed a piece that has fallen short under the ACA.
Some community hospitals are not far from major metro areas, while others serve more rural communities. No matter where they are located or their independence or affiliation with a major system, patients rely on community hospitals when they need care close to home.
Their size, limited financial resources and geographic locations can make it challenging for community hospitals to remain sustainable in an environment of competition for providers and physicians while offering scaled-down services.
At Becker's Hospital Review 5th Annual CEO + CFO Roundtable on Nov. 8, experts seasoned in the inner workings of community hospitals discussed how their entities are working to thrive. During a panel titled, "Building a sustainable business model for community hospitals," the participants emphasized what is relevant about their respective organizations and what they're doing to meet the challenges unique to community hospitals.
Bryan Slaba, CEO of Wagner (S.D.) Community Memorial Hospital - Avera, leads a small critical access hospital in rural South Dakota. His facility is 60 miles from a tweener hospital and 120 miles from a tertiary hospital. Wagner Community Memorial serves a demographic that is approximately 55 percent Native American. Its payer mix is 25 percent Medicaid, 50 percent Medicare and another 10 percent Indian Health Service. The 20-bed hospital's average daily census for acute care is one, and it has only about 2,400 annual emergency room visits. Still, it is critical to the community.
One issue Wagner Community Memorial struggled with was physician recruitment. To help address this issue, the CEO offered nurses at the hospital the opportunity to go back to school to become an advanced practice provider, with expenses paid for by the hospital. The only requirement was they come back to Wagner Community Memorial and work there as an APP for three years.
"I put them in my ER, and on my floor and in my clinic. Right now, 40 percent of my ER is covered by an APP with a physician backup who is 120 miles away through telemedicine," Mr. Slaba said.
As a result, the hospital's direct costs in the ER are down to 2012 levels and quality at the hospital has increased, he said. Patient advocacy went from the 63rd percentile to the 89th percentile on inpatient side, and on the ER side, the hospital went from the 63rd percentile in HCAHPS to the 90th percentile nationwide.
"Quality has stayed where it needs to be, costs have come back down 25 percent since their high in fiscal year 2014," Mr. Slaba said, noting that the APP initiative has also stabilized his hospital's cost-to-charge ratio.
Ginger Williams, MD, president and CEO of Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall, Mich., faces a slightly different situation at her hospital, a 94-bed community hospital in south central Michigan. Oaklawn has more than 1,000 employees and has about $130 million in net patient service revenue. Its tertiary and quaternary competitors are roughly 20 to 30 miles away, and there is another community hospital in the area.
Despite competition and challenges, Oaklawn has been able to achieve successes, Dr. Williams said. She specifically noted Oaklawn was named by Consumer Reports as being safest hospital in the country in 2015, and it was one of only four hospitals in Michigan to receive a five-star rating this year from CMS within the agency's Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating program. Additionally, the hospital established its own independent investment grade bond rating again this year.
Dr. Williams acknowledged there is no magic formula to building a sustainable business model. But she did recommend that community hospitals be entrepreneurial and look at the different service lines to assess where changes are needed.
She also said she believes one of the fundamental things for a sustainable business model in healthcare is having a culture "that not only services change but can actually thrive in change."
"Any change creates stress, and constant stress can result in some catastrophic results if you don't deal with it well," said Dr. Williams.
To be able to "thrive in change," she encourages community hospital CEOs work with physicians, provider staff and employees to adopt an outward-thinking mindset rather than an inward-focused mindset. This means instead of focusing unilaterally on their own goals and objectives, everyone working inside the hospital should recognize what others' goals and objectives are and how they can play a role in helping others achieve their individual goals, thus, helping the entire hospital.
Technology also plays a key role in building a sustainable business model for community hospitals.
Michael Monahan serves as director of solution enablement for Chicago-based GE Healthcare. GE Healthcare, a subsidiary of General Electric, has various offerings, such as medical imaging and information technologies, medical diagnostics, patient monitoring systems, drug discovery and biopharmaceutical manufacturing technologies, among others.
Mr. Monahan cited Oklahoma State University Medical Center in Tulsa as an example of how technology can help its community hospital partners and affiliates thrive. At OSU Medical Center, a teaching hospital, the radiology department was on different platforms. This meant when an electrocardiogram, for instance,was performed, different members of the hospital staff could view it but had to physically go to the EKG viewing platform or viewing machine. With the new GE solutions, the hospital staff and physicians are now able to use technology for a universal view whether they are in the teaching hospital, a smaller partner/affiliate facility or in a post-acute care setting. The data sharing aims to reduce costs, save time and enhance efficiencies across the board.
"I really see that as driving great quality. And truly if we we're going to start to move it down the care continuum, the closer you get to the end caregiver, and they're included in that conversation from day one, it's going to make a big difference," Mr. Monahan said.
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With a Republican sweep of the White House and Congress, last week's election could lead to major health policy changes, according to The Advisory Board.
In a perspective piece, Chas Roades, chief research officer at The Advisory Board, outlined the most common questions he has received from those in the healthcare industry following the election. Below are the top 12 questions Mr. Roades has received.
1. Will the ACA be repealed? It is likely some form of ACA repeal will be a high priority for President-elect Donald Trump's administration, according to Mr. Roades. In a policy brief released last week, Mr. Trump said the repeal of the health reform law will be paired with a replacement effort that includes expanded health savings accounts, re-established high-risk insurance pools, flexibility for states in administering Medicaid and a revamped approach to Medicare. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Mr. Trump said he would consider leaving certain parts of the ACA in place, such as the provisions that prohibit insurers from denying coverage due to a patient's preexisting conditions and allow parents to keep children on their health insurance policies for additional years.
2. How will provider rates of uncompensated care be affected if Medicaid expansion is repealed? Republicans may seek to repeal Medicaid expansion, which was enacted under the ACA, according to Mr. Roades. This would lead to an increase in uncompensated care and bad debt, as it would cause reduction in the total number of people covered by Medicaid. "Organizations should prepare for the possibility that the Medicaid expansion is undone, bad debt rises and [Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital] payment cuts still eventually kick in," said Mr. Roades.
3. How would Medicaid reform affect healthcare organizations' finances? Mr. Trump has proposed Medicaid reforms that would limit growth of federal funding for Medicaid and give states greater flexibility in administering the program. These reforms may cause some states to limit Medicaid eligibility, payment rates or benefits. "For providers, this would portend lower revenue and a need to double down on efforts to reduce costs," said Mr. Roades.
4. What will happen to the ACA health insurance exchanges? The future of the ACA exchanges is uncertain, according to Mr. Roades. He notes that Republicans may repeal the exchanges and implement a transition plan that phases out the subsidies.
5. Will the ACA's cuts to long-term Medicare spending be repealed? Medicare spending cuts under the ACA are likely to remain in place. Mr. Roades highlighted that previous legislation approved by the House to repeal the ACA left the long-term Medicare spending cuts intact. This means healthcare provider organizations would have to endure the Medicare price cuts without the upside of coverage expansion, according to Mr. Roades.
6. What is the future of payment reform? There's a lot of uncertainty surrounding existing risk-based payment and pay-for-performance models. If providers and key stakeholders voice a preference for value-based care models over deeper fee-for-service rate cuts, the Trump administration and new Congress may support the payment models.
7. What will happen to bundled payment programs? Although some Republicans have taken issue with CMS' Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement model and the proposed Episode-Based Payment Model, it is unlikely bundled payment programs will come to an end, as they have general support from both parties, according to Mr. Roades.
8. Will ACO programs continue? A full repeal of the ACA would mean the Medicare Shared Savings Program would be eliminated. However, Mr. Roades noted Republicans haven't proposed a replacement for alternative payment models such as MSSP, and there has been no indication the alternative payment models would be included in more specific repeal efforts.
9. Will the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation be eliminated? Although it's unclear if CMMI is on the chopping block, Mr. Roades noted previous House bills to repeal the ACA eliminated CMMI's funding and authority.
10. How will the election affect MACRA? Although the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act has strong bipartisan support, action to cut back alternative payment models, such as repealing the ACA or defunding CMMI, would undermine MACRA's effectiveness, according to Mr. Roades.
11. What does the future hold for Medicare Advantage? "While it is not likely that MAwill fully supplant traditional Medicare in the immediate future, providers would be wise to craft strategies that address both the MA and traditional Medicare segments in complementary, scalable ways," said Mr. Roades.
12. Will Medicare move toward a premium-support model? House Speaker Paul Ryan's plan for Medicare includes transitioning the program to a defined-contribution or "premium-support" model from a traditional entitlement model. However, Mr. Roades noted it is not clear whether President-elect Trump supports the plan.
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Republicans in Congress are conflicted over the best approach to repealing the ACA, The Hill reports. Meanwhile, Republican President-elect Donald Trump has indicated he might be willing to compromise and save certain parts of the healthcare reform law, according to an interview with The Wall Street Journal.
Sens. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and Mike Lee, R-Utah, want to rip the ACA out "root and branch," according to The Hill. Other conservative members of Congress favor a longer, smoother transition away from the law to ensure those who gained health insurance under the ACA are able to keep that coverage in some way, according to the report.
Mr. Trump is also considering a flexible approach to the repeal. In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Mr. Trump said President Barack Obama suggested protecting a few elements of the law during their meeting at the White House Thursday.
Mr. Trump told The Wall Street Journal he will take Mr. Obama's suggestions into consideration. In particular, Mr. Trump favors keeping requirements for insurers to cover patients with pre-existing conditions and allowing children up to age 26 to remain on their parents' health plans, according to the report.
"Either Obamacare will be amended, or repealed and replaced," Mr. Trump told The Wall Street Journal.
Congress is likely to take up the ACA repeal issue shortly after Mr. Trump takes office, as he has indicated he will make healthcare a top priority of his presidency.
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The American College of Physicians elected 53 physicians to Master status within the organization for making notable contributions to medicine.
These contributions include those in teaching, clinical research, clinical practice, preventive medicine, delivery improvements or contributions to literature. Masters are chosen "on account of personal character, positions of honor, contributions toward furthering the purposes of the ACP, eminence in practice or in medical research, or other attainments in science or in the art of medicine." The following 53 physicians will be recognized at a ceremony during ACP's annual meeting in March.
Jeffrey L. Berenberg, MD (Kaneohe, Hawaii)
Nora Valeria Bergasa, MD (New York)
Ruth E. Berggren, MD (San Antonio, Texas)
Glenn J. Bingle, MD (Indianapolis)
Patricia A. Bomba, MD (Pittsford, N.Y.)
George J. Bosl, MD (Syosset, N.Y.)
Major W. Bradshaw, MD (Houston)
John B. Bulger, DO (Danville, Pa.)
John M. Carethers, MD (Ann Arbor, Mich.)
David S. Cooper, MD (Baltimore)
William A. Curry, MD (Birmingham, Ala.)
Anne B. Curtis, MD (Buffalo, N.Y.)
Nitin S. Damle, MD, MS (Wakefield, R.I.)
Stephen Neil Davis, MD (Baltimore)
Robert Dreicer, MD (Cleveland)
Richard M. Dupee, MD (Boston)
John R. Ebright, MD (Grosse Pointe Park, Mich.)
Edwin W. Grimsley, MD (Macon, Ga.)
James F. Hanley, MD (Laguna Vista, Texas)
Darrell W. Harrington, MD (Long Beach, Calif.)
Stuart B. Himmelstein, MD (Lake Worth, Fla.)
Phillip E. Hoffsten, MD (Pierre, S.D.)
Robert H. Hopkins Jr., MD (Little Rock, Ark.)
Hans-Peter Kohler, MD (Bern, Switzerland)
Princy N. Kumar, MD (Washington, D.C.)
H. Clifford Lane, MD (Cabin John, Md.)
Debra K. Litzelman, MD (Carmel, Ind.)
Milton de Arruda Martins, MD (Sao Paulo, Brazil)
Barbara L. McAneny, MD (Albuquerque, N.M.)
David E. Midthun, MD (Rochester, Minn.)
Clinton K. Murray, MC USA (San Antonio)
Heidi D. Nelson, MD (Portland, Ore.)
John E. Nestler, MD (Richmond, Va.)
James R. O'Dell, MD (Omaha, Neb.)
John H. O'Neill Jr., DO (Middletown, Del.)
Thomas J. Olsen, MD (St. Louis)
Calvin Q. Pan, MD (Flushing, N.Y.)
Mukta Panda, MD (Chattanooga, Tenn.)
Michael W. Peterson, MD (Fresno, Calif.)
Maria E. Pinto, MD (Santiago, Chile)
Mark W. Purtle, MD (Des Moines, Iowa)
Khalid A. Qushmaq, MD (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)
Daniel W. Rahn, MD (Little Rock, Ark.)
Maria A. Rodriguez, MD (Houston)
Mitchell H. Rosner, MD (Charlottesville, Va.)
Gerald W. Smetana, MD (West Roxbury, Mass.)
Bruce C. Smith, MD (Issaquah, Wash.)
Paul A. Smith, MD (Seattle)
Banu E. Symington, MD (Twin Falls, Idaho)
Gary H. Tabas, MD (Pittsburgh)
Thomas G. Tape, MD (Omaha, Neb.)
Peter F. Weller, MD (Boston)
Mone Zaidi, MD (New York)
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The following healthcare organizations shared plans to hire workers so far in November, starting with the most recent.
1. Pennsylvania healthcare organizations look to fill staffing needs
Job openings in the healthcare field are plentiful in the Lehigh Valley and Northeastern Pennsylvania., according to a Standard-Speaker report. Christine Jensen, Pennsylvania CareerLink administrator in Hazleton and Wilkes-Barre, told the publication that of 134 occupations on Pennsylvania's High Priority Occupation list for Luzerne and Schuylkill counties, 20 percent of them are in the healthcare field.
2. Plaza Medical Center to build $64M ED
Fort Worth, Texas-based Plaza Medical Center will construct a $64 million facility, nearly doubling its emergency and intensive care capacity to meet increasing demand, reports Star-Telegram. Overall, the expansion will add 130 full-time jobs to Plaza Medical Center, which currently employs more than 1,100, according to the report.
3. Va. community group, hospitals work to connect people with hospital jobs Richmond, Va.-based Richmonders Involved to Strengthen our Communities is teaming up with VCU Health System and HCA Virginia Health System, also in Richmond, to help local residents in "distressed neighborhoods" land healthcare jobs, according to a Richmond Times-Dispatch report. RISC an interracial, interfaith, nonpartisan organization and the two healthcare providers will partner for the employment initiative, which seeks to help unemployed or underemployed people find entry-level jobs in healthcare, according to the article
4. 133 new behavioral health jobs coming to Sussex County, Del.
A new psychiatric hospital in Delaware is expected to bring 133 jobs and crisis care to Sussex County in 2018, according to The News Journal. The 90-bed, 93,000-square-foot psychiatric hospital and treatment center is being built in Georgetown across from Delaware Technical Community College.
5. CarePoint Health seeks New Jersey approval to open 9 satellite EDs: 3 things to know
Bayonne, N.J.-based CarePoint Health plans to open nine satellite emergency departments throughout New Jersey, according to a report on NJ.com. CarePoint has applied with the New Jersey Department of Health to open facilities in Jersey City, Union City and North Bergen, according to the article. CarePoint also proposed facilities in Edgewater, Palisades Park, Carlstadt, Lodi and Clifton.
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Oran Aaronson, MD, will join Nashville, Tenn.-based Saint Thomas Medical Partners, according to WGNS Radio.
Here are six points:
1. Board-certified neurosurgeon Dr. Aaronson will serve patients at the Howell Allen Clinic in Nashville, starting Jan. 1, 2017.
2. He currently serves as the medical director of Nashville-based Vanderbilt Spine Center.
3. He headed Vanderbilt University Medical Center's neurosurgery residency program until 2015.
4. Between 2004 and 2014, Dr. Anderson was chief of neurosurgery at the Nashville Veterans Administration Hospital.
5. Dr. Anderson is a contributing author on more than 25 publications and presentations regarding spine surgery.
6. Dr. Aaronson completed his neurosurgery residency at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, also in Nashville.
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4 spine and neurosurgeons in the headlines this week Nov. 11, 2016
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A wannabe weatherman has been jailed for arson after admitting he started a wildfire to draw attention to his selfie videos on Facebook, police said.
"It's really too bad because he's not a bad kid - he's just misguided," said James Stephens, the police chief in Jenkins, Kentucky, where Johnny Mullins, 21, was arrested on a second-degree arson charge.
"He likes to do Facebook videos and have people follow him on his 'weather forecast', so that's pretty much why he did what he did," the chief said.
"He enjoyed the attention he got from the Facebook stuff."
"He didn't realise how much danger he was putting other people in," Mr Stephens added.
A teenager in Harlan County, Kentucky was also was arrested for arson - and in Tennessee, authorities said that Andrew Scott Lewis was charged with setting fires, vandalism and threatening homes outside Chattanooga.
No further arrests were announced over the rest of the suspicious fires, which have been torching forests in and around the southern Appalachian mountains.
The relentless drought across much of the South has removed the usual humidity and sucked wells and streams dry, making the woods prone to fire.
Tens of thousands of acres have burned, about a dozen of the largest fires remain uncontained and many people had to evacuate their homes ahead of fast-moving flames.
Law officers in Georgia's Rabun County suspect that someone started a series of small roadside fires on Wednesday that eventually merged into the much larger blazes firefighters were working to contain over the weekend, said Justin Upchurch, the county's assistant fire chief.
The area is less than 50 miles from North Carolina's Nantahala National Forest, where more than 20 wildfires that have burned more than 17,000 acres are all "being investigated for suspected arson", forestry officials announced in a status update.
There were 14 other wildfires burning on Cherokee Nation land in North Carolina, all under investigation by local law enforcement.
A fire managers' update noted that the US Bureau of Indian Affairs is seeking information about fires on Indian lands through an arson hotline.
The US Forest Service announced on Friday that the entire Cohutta Wilderness, which stretches across the Chattahoochee National Forest in Georgia and the Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee, has been closed to the public due to multiple fires there.
States of emergency were declared in some of the affected areas to facilitate state and federal spending on the response.
More than 5,000 firefighters and support staff from around the nation have joined the effort, said Shardul Raval, director of fire and aviation management for the southern region of the US Forest Service.
AP
Aviation experts fear flights by UK carriers could be grounded if the country withdraws from the single market for aviation as part of Brexit
Maintaining "liberal access" to European aviation markets will be a "top priority" when the UK negotiates its exit from the EU, the Government and UK airlines have said.
Aviation experts fear that flights by UK carriers could be grounded if the country withdraws from the single market for aviation as part of Brexit.
The agreement, created in the 1990s, means there are no commercial restrictions for airlines flying within the EU.
Brexit Secretary David Davis, Transport Secretary Chris Grayling and Airlines UK, a trade body for UK airlines, issued a joint statement to pledge that they will work together to ensure aviation " continues to be a major success story for the UK economy".
They said: " Market access remains a top priority, and we want to make sure we have liberal access to European aviation markets.
"We will also work closely to explore new opportunities for further liberalisation. We are clear that Brexit provides greater freedom to seek new agreements between the UK and some third countries.
"This includes looking at possible bilateral agreements to strengthen economic and cultural ties even further with countries such as the US and Canada."
Mr Davis and aviation minister Lord Ahmad chaired a meeting at L ondon City Airport to discuss Brexit with industry leaders, including representatives from easyJet, Ryanair, Heathrow Airport and Virgin Atlantic.
The statement, issued following the meeting, insisted that ministers will " give as much early certainty to the sector as possible" due to the long lead-in times associated with developing new routes.
According to the Department for Exiting the European Union, the UK has the " largest aviation network in Europe", handling over 250 million passengers and 2.3 million tonnes of cargo last year, with connections to more than 370 international destinations.
The sector was worth around 20 billion to the UK economy in 2014, the statement added.
Prime Minister Theresa May will warn that those at the bottom of the economic ladder see globalisation as a job destroying, income cutting cause for concern
Theresa May has denied she is anti-business and urged companies to work with the Government to help those "left behind" by globalisation regain their faith in capitalism.
The Prime Minister said the post-war liberal consensus has "failed to maintain the consent of many people" and told those who cannot see the breakdown in trust that they are the "enemy" of liberalism.
She urged firms to cooperate with the Government to ensure they "do business in the right way", because a minority have "gamed the system" and undermined the reputation of business as a whole.
Those who have championed globalisation have, in their "zeal and enthusiasm", overlooked the impact on those who have seen their jobs outsourced and wages undercut, and who have seen their communities changed by immigration but "don't remember agreeing to that change".
But now as the UK gets ready for Brexit and Donald Trump prepares to be inaugurated as United States president, "a change is in the air", she said.
In a speech to City leaders at Guildhall, s he called on Britain to react by continuing to be a "pioneer" and an "outrider", and to rebuild trust in global free markets by ensuring they deliver prosperity for everyone.
"If we believe, as I do, that liberalism and globalisation continue to offer the best future for our world, we must deal with the downsides and show that we can make these twin forces work for everyone," the PM said.
"Because when you refuse to accept that globalisation in its current form has left too many people behind, you're not sowing the seeds for its growth but for its ruin.
"When you fail to see that the liberal consensus that has held sway for decades has failed to maintain the consent of many people, you're not the champion of liberalism but the enemy of it.
"When you dismiss the very real and deeply felt concerns of ordinary people, whether here at home or abroad, you are not acting to defend your world view but to undermine it."
Mrs May insisted businesses have a crucial role in restoring public faith in free markets and in helping those who have not gained from globalisation.
"I know many of you in this room recognise this responsibility, but others have voiced their suspicion of what they see as a growing anti-business agenda," she said.
"I don't agree. It is because I believe so passionately in business that I say this. Asking business to work with Government to play its part is profoundly pro-business, because it is fundamental to retaining faith in capitalism and free markets."
The Prime Minister said she sees Brexit as an opportunity to "manage the forces of globalisation so that they work for all" and to show that "Britain can lead" in facing the "greatest challenges of our time".
In her speech, Mrs May also signalled her intention to strike a post-Brexit trade deal with the US.
The PM said Britain can use its economic strength to do "new business with old allies" in a sign that she views the election of Mr Trump as an opportunity.
As Downing Street was forced to insist that Nigel Farage will not be a "third person" in the UK's relationship with the US president-elect, Mrs May said she would use the freedoms granted by Brexit to "set our own rules" and forge new trading arrangements.
Mrs May said: "As we leave the European Union, we will... use the strength and size of our economy to lead the way in getting out into the world and doing new business with old allies and new partners alike.
"We will use the freedoms that come from negotiating with partners directly, to be flexible, to set our own rules and forge new and dynamic trading agreements that work for the whole UK."
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn accused Mrs May of playing catch-up and, in an echo of Mr Trump, claimed the Tories would not dismantle the "rigged system" which serves "billionaires".
Mr Corbyn said: "Theresa May is trying to catch up with a changing world the Conservatives do not understand.
"There can't be a globalisation that works for all without taking on the billionaires' club that controls this rigged system.
"The Conservatives have presided over ballooning inequality. They've given tax cuts to the richest 1% while the incomes of 70% have stagnated or fallen.
"Labour will take on the interests holding our country back. We will invest to rebuild and transform Britain, so no-one and no community is left behind."
CBI director-general Carolyn Fairbairn welcomed Mrs May's "robust case for free trade" and said businesses were looking forward to working with her on an industrial strategy.
On responsible business, she added: "Companies are committed to improving employee engagement.
"There is no blanket solution, but a starting point is firms being able to outline what approach they are taking - whether that's employees on boards, employee committees, dedicated representatives, or another model.
"Investors should rightly hold companies to account over exceptional pay for poor performance.
"Introducing a targeted binding vote regime would focus attention on the most concerning cases giving shareholders the teeth to truly have the final say on top executives' pay."
Northern Ireland's shop vacancy rate has improved despite a fall in footfall last month, a survey said today.
The Springboard research said footfall in Northern Ireland's shops was down 5% during October, decreasing for the second month in a row.
The year-on-year fall in Northern Ireland compared to a 0.4% decrease in the UK as a whole - and at 5.3%, was steeper than the three-month average of 2.1%.
The province's shop vacancy rate was 14.5%, which was down from 15.3% in July - but still the highest rate of anywhere in the UK.
Diane Wehrle, Springboard marketing and insights director, said the October results were typical of volatile footfall in the province. But she said footfall in shopping centres had grown for the fourth month in a row - with a 0.4% October increase - "a much improved position from a decline of -0.9% in October 2015".
She added: "Whilst a boost in luxury sales due to the weak pound has been widely reported, this is not reflected in increased footfall as it is driven by higher value purchases."
And she said the fall in vacancy rate was good news for Northern Ireland: "The vacancy rate always lags behind trends in footfall and sales due to the stickiness of the property market, and so the improvement is likely to be a response to rises in high street footfall that occurred over the summer.
"In order to avoid an increase in vacancies post-Christmas, it is critical for retailers - and retail destinations - to deliver the best in class in terms of both price and experience."
Aodhan Connolly, director of the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium, said the figures were a "mixed bag". But he said he hoped the fall in vacancy rate would prove a lasting trend.
"It shows that our members are, even in uncertain economic times, more than willing to create jobs in retail and support other areas of the economy that rely on our industry. Our commitment to Northern Ireland has never been stronger.
"However, our industry faces considerable business cost headwinds, many of which are policy driven and which deter investment. We would urge the NI Executive to do whatever it can through the Programme for Government and associated Budget to reduce the escalating cost burden on our members."
Nick Rhodes, Simon Le Bon and Roger Taylor leave the Rolls Building in central London after a US copyright hearing
Members of pop group Duran Duran are involved in a critical legal battle over US copyright in their first three albums.
Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes and Roger Taylor were at London's High Court on Monday to assert their right to end agreements with major publishers Gloucester Place Music - ultimately owned by US business Sony/ATV.
A fourth group member, John Taylor, is in the US. Former member Andrew Taylor is also involved in the case but did not attend court.
Lawyers for Gloucester Place, which is part of EMI Music Publishing, are asking a judge to declare that the group members have breached music publishing agreements by serving notices to terminate the grant to the company of US copyrights in Duran Duran works.
Under US law, songwriters have "an inalienable right" to call for a reversion of copyright after 35 years.
But Gloucester Place says the agreements with the group members are governed by English laws of contract which prevent them seeking to take back copyright in their first three albums - Duran Duran, Rio and Seven And The Ragged Tiger - plus A View To A Kill, the first Bond film title track to go to the top of the US Billboard charts.
Rhodes said: " We sincerely hope that this cynical attempt to deny us the opportunity offered to all songwriters in the US, to reclaim their copyrights after 35 years, will be dismissed outright by the British courts."
Experts in copyright law say the case is of importance to all other songwriters subject to contracts similar to those Duran Duran members signed.
The 1980 agreements at the centre of the case were made with the band members personally and all are referred to as "the writers".
The group members have all given notice of reversion relying on section 203 of the US Copyright Act 1976, which, their lawyers say, allows for the automatic termination of rights after 35 years.
Ian Mill QC, appearing for Gloucester Place, said: "My clients entered into contracts and agreed to pay these artistes sums of money both by way of royalties in return for which the artistes promised to give them rights to exploit, subject to the payment of those sums, for the full term of copyright."
Mr Mill told Chancery Division judge Mr Justice Arnold the issue before the court was "one of pure contractural construction", and he complained that written submissions on behalf of Duran Duran contained "intemperate language".
He argued that, on a correct construction, the terms of the contracts meant that "these writers have agreed that they will not seek to obtain a reversion of their copyrights under section 203 and they are in breach of contract should they do so".
Michael Bloch QC, for the Duran Duran members, argued that the "shameful" Gloucester Place case was "as feeble as it is greedy".
He said the implications of the case were potentially far reaching.
"If the publishers were right, the English court may serve as an offshore haven for any of their ilk who wish to defeat the protective provisions of the US - the principal market for popular music in the English language - or any similar legislation elsewhere," argued Mr Bloch.
The publishers were asking the court to attribute a meaning to the "bland language" of the agreements which would be oppressive and controversial and would create "a precedent to which they have no right."
Outside court, Rhodes said: "US copyright law clearly states that songwriters are permitted to apply for a reversion of their copyrights after a 35 year period.
"This provision was instigated to help rebalance the often unfair deals which artists sign early in their careers when they have little choice to try to get their first break, with no negotiating power and virtually no understanding of what their copyrights really mean for the future.
"When we registered a request, in 2014, for the reversion of our eligible copyrights in America, we understood it to be a formality.
"Regrettably Sony/ATV have decided to challenge our rights under the premise of a contractual technicality in the UK and have elected to take legal action against us.
"We felt we had absolutely no choice but to stand up for ourselves, and indeed all other artists, who are likely to suffer similar circumstances."
Olly Murs is set to top the album charts with 24 Hrs
Olly Murs's 24 Hrs album its on its way to making this week's number one spot in the official album charts.
If it's successful, his fifth studio album, released on Monday, will be his fourth chart-topper in a row.
But Emeli Sande's second album, Long Live The Angels, currently at number two, could still take the lead before the official results are revealed on Friday.
Her debut album, Our Version of Events, in 2012 broke records when it spent 67 weeks in the top 10 - the longest reign for any female artist, according to the Official Charts Company.
Vying for third place is Cliff Richard's Just... Fabulous Rock 'n' Roll, which would be his 44th top 10 album, followed by Michael Ball and Alfie Boe's Together and Elvis Presley's The Wonder Of You.
Days after his death, Leonard Cohen's final studio album You Want It Darker shot up 23 places to number six, while his 2002 greatest hits album The Essential Leonard Cohen has re-entered the charts at 19.
David Bowie's latest Legacy compilation is currently at number 13, followed by Nathan Sykes' debut solo album Unfinished Business.
Clean Bandit's Rockabye looks set for a second week at the top of the singles chart, with Little Mix's Shout Out To My Ex currently at number two.
Say You Won't Let Me Go by James Arthur looks likely to claim third position, followed by 24K Magic by Bruno Mars and Sexual by Swedish producer Neiked.
Randy Crawford's One Day I'll Fly Away has made a comeback 36 years after its released, coming in at number 24 in the top 40, after it was used in this year's John Lewis television Christmas advert.
More than 2,000 people have been fined for driving in Belfast's bus lanes - in the dead of night when buses aren't even running
More than 2,000 people have been fined for driving in Belfast's bus lanes - in the dead of night when buses aren't even running.
In many cases motorists did not realise cameras were rolling 24 hours a day. One driver said he had been ticketed twice in the space of 30 minutes outside Central Station at 1am in the morning. Roads Minister Chris Hazzard has now asked for the matter to be reviewed.
City centre buses do not run at night.
It is the latest controversy to hit the city's bus lanes, which have been strongly criticised over the high number of fines issued to drivers. The Belfast Telegraph reported in September how one camera had scooped 1m in just 15 months.
South Belfast MLA Christopher Stalford said it was "absurd" to fine people for using the bus lanes at night.
"I am astounded by the figures that the Belfast Telegraph has obtained," he said.
"It is becoming increasingly clear to a lot of people that the bus lanes and the cameras on them are a money-spinner, rather than making it easier to move people around Belfast."
Bus lanes were introduced in 2012 as part of the Belfast on the Move traffic plan, to help get people around the city more quickly.
Since June 2015, motorists who drive in the lanes have faced a 90 fine, which is reduced to 45 if paid in two weeks.
There are more than 60 bus lanes across the city.
Two operate 24 hours a day - even though no buses operate in Belfast through the night.
These are at East Bridge Street, which runs past Central Station, and Castle Street, which is a buses-only street.
Figures obtained by this newspaper after a Freedom of Information request show a total of 2,205 fines were issued at both locations between midnight and 6am.
The fines were issued in a 16-month period between June 2015 and September this year.
A handful of buses do run to Dublin, Derry and the two airports. Yet the city centre services - which the lanes were supposed to benefit - are not in operation through the night.
Mr Stalford added: "It is absurd to be fining people for being in a bus lane when there are no buses running.
"That needs to change. It is completely unfair to penalise people like this."
The disclosure will add to the growing criticism of bus lanes.
The Belfast Telegraph recently reported how the cameras had raised more than 2.7m in their first 15 months.
Up to August 31 this year, a total of 51,811 penalty charge notices were issued. They were worth a combined 2,729,021 - or 6,245 a day on average.
One camera, at Donegall Square East beside City Hall, was responsible for 17,972 penalties being issued to city centre commuters in just 15 months. That camera alone had generated fines totalling 975,242 by the end of August.
The other hotspots are Castle Street, where drivers have been issued with 14,184 fines, worth 706,366, and Great Victoria Street, where 8,167 fines worth 442,978 have been generated.
Mr Stalford added: "The whole idea of charging people for accidentally driving into bus lanes needs to be looked at again."
The Department for Infrastructure said minister Chris Hazzard was looking at the policy of fining people for using the lanes at night.
A spokesperson said: "Castle Street between Fountain Street and Donegall Place is currently a no-entry street for all vehicles except buses and bicycles.
"This is to stop traffic using the city centre as a short cut when travelling either east or west between High Street and Millfield.
"It also facilitates south-only bus movements on Donegall Place, by allowing north bound buses to use Queens Street and Castle Street.
"The minister has asked officials to look at the restrictions within this area of Belfast to ascertain if changes to existing prohibitions can be made."
Previously, officials have denied that Belfast's bus lanes are aimed at raising money.
In September 2015 Ciaran de Burca told MLAs from Stormont's regional development committee that the level of fines incurred was a surprise.
While he admitted the department's finances were "in the red", Mr de Burca said the scheme was not a money-making operation.
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MLAs have been warned against challenging the authority of the Assembly Speaker
MLAs have been issued with a stern warning against challenging the authority of the Assembly Speaker.
Robin Newton said he would not tolerate any abuse of procedures and would not be sympathetic to representatives who breach the rules.
He said: " It has been disappointing that members, of late, have been frequently breaching our procedures by challenging standard procedural decisions and challenging the authority of both myself and the Deputy Speakers both inside and outside the chamber.
"Indeed, we have had occasion to write to two members who have been challenging the authority of the chair following last week's business.
"As I made it clear to party leaders in a letter of October 21, members who challenge the authority or that of the Deputy Speakers, whether inside or outside the chamber, need not expect me to be sympathetic towards them or future business.
"I have discussed this with the Deputy Speakers and I am increasingly concerned about this issue and members seeking to involve us in issues which are properly for ministers or indeed, party political debate.
"There are indeed many issues being raised with us at the minute but I warn members we will be proactive in relation to any abuse of procedures towards the chair."
The comments come after some elected representatives queried decisions taken by the Speaker's office in recent months.
Last week, Alliance Party MLA Chris Lyttle used social media to voice concern that his urgent oral question request, which allows matters of public importance to be discussed at short notice, was turned down.
He wrote on Twitter: "At total loss how Assembly Speaker ruled Teacher Strike does not merit an urgent oral question response from Ed Min."
Meanwhile, the Speaker has also been accused of blocking debates on a number of controversial issues including the Nama property scandal and appointment of a new Executive press secretary.
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye Dee Fennell and Colin Duffy 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye Dee Fennell and Colin Duffy 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Kevin Scott / Presseye 25th Anniversary Commemoration parade for IRA member Patricia Black takes place through Lenadoon on November 13th 2016 in Belfast , Northern Ireland. (Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye)
Images showing children dressed in paramilitary regalia taking part in a republican parade have been criticised by the Children's Commissioner.
On Sunday, children in berets and sunglasses joined Republicans marching in West Belfast to remember an IRA terrorist killed 25 years ago.
The parade for Patricia Black (18) ,who was killed by her own bomb on November 15 1991, took place through Lenadoon.
A number of children can be seen taking part marching with flags and their faces partially covered with sunglasses.
Northern Ireland's Children's Commissioner raised concerns over the images showing young people taking part - and said it needs to form part of a wider discussion.
Koulla Yiasouma said her primary concern is the best interests of children.
She said: "I have to make sure that relevant authorities are keeping children safe and let's not forget that it's parents who decided that their children take part in what was deemed to be a legal parade.
"I would be concerned about images of children in any sorts of involvement with any sort of paramilitary regalia or images.
"I will be contacting all the relevant authorities including the parades commission to make sure the best interests of these children have been protected and there are no child protection issues."
She added: "This is a legal parade what I would like to know is what measures are in place to make sure that the authorities know if children are going to take part.
"Do I think it's OK, probably not, but thats not within my remit telling parents how to involve their children in legal parades."
Meanwhile Sinn Fein MLA Gerry Kelly refused to tell the BBC Stephen Nolan Show whether he supported the children taking part and their attire.
He said: "Do you have a problem when it comes to cadets wearing British Army uniform? Or in memorials for British Army that they also wear berets and all the rest of it?
"If you want to be consistent, be consistent but don't come to me every time you want to make a complaint about Republicans.
"If you are going to be consistent look right across the board - because young people do this throughout Ireland, throughout Britain."
He added: "If you are asking me a biased question about a particular section of children, it is fair for me to ask you to look at it right across the board."
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact detectives at Musgrave Police Station
Two men have entered a house in the Cooke Place area of south Belfast and attacked a woman.
Shortly after 9am on Monday, the men entered the house and assaulted a woman who was in the house with a young child. The woman received injuries that required hospital treatment.
Detective Sergeant Keith Wilson said: "One of the men is described as being approximately 510 tall, of stocky build, with a bald head, stubble and he spoke with a Belfast accent.
"He was wearing a dark hip-length puffa type jacket and dark trousers. The second man is described as being of stocky build and was wearing a dark waterproof type hooded jacket and black gloves.
"I would ask anyone with any information about this incident to contact detectives at Musgrave Police Station on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 264 of 14/11/16.
"Or if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111."
A councillor who was attacked when he tried to reason with a group of youths as they defaced a memorial to the late PUP leader David Ervine says he was "deeply saddened" that the incident occurred on Remembrance Sunday.
Dr John Kyle, a local GP who is in his sixties, was also swift to call for no retaliation following the incident, which occurred on the Albertbridge Road at around 8.20am.
It is understood four young people were involved in defacing the memorial, with one of the perpetrators reportedly defecating on the structure.
When Dr Kyle, who was on his bike at the time, intervened and asked the group of youths to stop what they were doing, he was kicked but did not sustain any injuries.
The PUP councillor for the area said he had spoken to Mr Ervine's widow, Jeanette, and revealed she echoed Dr Kyle's appeal that the attack would not cause trouble among the east Belfast community.
Stressing that he was "absolutely fine", Dr Kyle last night said the incident had been condemned by all sides of the community.
He told the Belfast Telegraph: "For this to have happened on Remembrance Sunday, of all days, and particularly given David's role in trying to bring about a political process which resulted in Stormont running again, and as a man who was held in such high esteem in east Belfast, it is just very regrettable that this has happened.
"What we as a party have made clear is that the last thing David would have wanted is for this to cause any angry backlash. David would not have wanted retaliation or anything like that, his reaction would have been one of sadness and that is my own reaction on this occasion.
"I just think it is very regrettable that something so shameful should take place on Remembrance Sunday. People have been working hard to continue David's work to bring peace and prosperity to an area of east Belfast which has suffered from deprivation and it would be awful if something like this would spoil all that effort.
"I have spoken to David's widow, Jeanette, and explained what happened.
"She was obviously upset but equally firm in saying she wouldn't want this to cause any trouble in east Belfast."
The young people involved in the incident are understood to have been in their late teens or early 20s.
Sophie Long, the PUP's Director of Communications, urged anyone who comes across video footage of the memorial attack to contact police with a view to prosecuting those responsible.
She said everyone connected to the party was "very sad" about what had happened to Dr Kyle and to the memorial itself.
"For anyone to use violence on such a lovely, gentle man as John is just awful," said Ms Long.
A statement on the PUP's Facebook page welcomed the condemnation "from all sections of the community".
A PSNI spokesman said officers are investigating the report of an assault on a man in the Albertbridge Road area of Belfast which occurred at around 8.40am on Sunday morning, as well as a report of attempted criminal damage to a memorial on the Albertbridge Road.
Inspector Murphy would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed either of these incidents to contact police at Strandtown Police station on the non-emergency number 101.
Peter Robinson says his position "has already been set out in detail" at the Northern Ireland Finance Committee hearing
Peter Robinson has said he is not answerable to a parliamentary inquiry in Dublin probing a controversial 1.2 billion property portfolio sale by the Republic's toxic assets agency Nama.
The former Northern Ireland first minister said he would want to help the Oireachtas Public Accounts Committee investigation but he has not received an invitation to attend.
The committee said it sent a letter to Mr Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness more than a month ago, on October 5, asking them to give evidence before the hearings.
While Mr McGuinness agreed to attend, and is to be cross-examined on Wednesday, the parliamentary watchdog said it never received a response from Mr Robinson.
It works on the assumption that no response within 10 days means the invitee is unavailable.
Mr Robinson told the Press Association: "I have not received any invitation yet but constitutionally Northern Ireland ministers are not and should not be answerable to a Dail committee for their actions.
"However I would want to be helpful to the committee in carrying out its role. If they do want to contact me I'm sure we can devise another way to provide my views to the committee."
He added: "My position has already been set out in detail at the Northern Ireland Finance Committee hearing."
Mr McGuinness has previously said he thinks Mr Robinson should attend the hearings.
Dublin's Public Accounts Committee is investigating the sale by Nama of a massive Northern Ireland property portfolio, known as Project Eagle, to American investment fund Cerberus in 2014.
It wants to speak to Mr Robinson and Mr McGuinness about a phone call they were involved in, along with Dublin's Finance Minister Michael Noonan, about Project Eagle in January 2014, months before the sale.
Another US investment company, Pimco, has told the committee it pulled out of an earlier bid for the portfolio after it discovered a "success fee" or fixer payment of 16 million for three parties behind the scenes.
Pimco said the money was to be shared equally by Belfast businessman Frank Cushnahan, US law firm Brown Rudnick, and Ian Coulter, a managing partner of Tughans, a Belfast law firm subcontracted to assist in the deal.
Mr Cushnahan was formerly a Nama adviser on Northern Ireland on the recommendation of the Democratic Unionist Party.
Brown Rudnick also acted as advisers in the successful deal with Cerberus, which has been dogged by scandal for more than a year, including 7 million linked to it being found in an Isle of Man bank account.
Mr Coulter resigned after it was unearthed.
Pimco said it was first approached about buying the portfolio in April 2013, by Brown Rudnick, which introduced Mr Cushnahan and Mr Coulter.
The investment firm was told the Northern Ireland government wanted to ensure there would no fire-sale of the properties and that "it was a sensitive political matter and would have a major impact on the Northern Ireland economy".
Following a meeting with Mr Robinson and then finance minister Sammy Wilson in May 2013, Pimco was "informed by Brown Rudnick that it was the Northern Irish government's preferred purchaser for Nama's Northern Ireland portfolio", the firm said in a letter to the committee last week.
All parties involved have denied any wrongdoing.
The fate of an RAF airman who was lost in a Second World War bombing raid has been uncovered in an aircraft excavation in Belgium 71 years later.
Flying Officer Holman Gordon Stanley Kerr, from Lurgan, was one of a crew of seven who all perished when their Lancaster aircraft was shot down in Belgium on its return from a bombing raid on Germany in March 1945. Several bodies were recovered from the downed aircraft at the time and buried in a communal grave with seven headstones at Heverlee War Cemetery, but the remains of Flying Officer Kerr were never identified.
Earlier this year, a special team scanned the area to identify the exact location of the Lancaster and this weekend they excavated the aircraft from the soft ground where it had crashed, under the strict guidance of the RAF, Royal Australian Air Force and the Belgian Air Force.
History Hub Ulster member Gavin Bamford was at the dig in a personal capacity to ensure that the remaining crew are buried with dignity and full RAF honours in Heverlee cemetery.
He said the team have uncovered the remains of three of the crew and judging by their position in the aircraft, they were probably the Australian, Jamaican and one of the English crew members.
This throws new light on the burials carried out in 1945, suggesting that four bodies were retrieved but not identified, including that of Flying Officer Kerr. All four were buried in Heverlee cemetery in a group grave.
The bodies recovered over the weekend will now be buried with full RAF honours in the same cemetery.
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Locals in Bunsbeek, Belgium, have known about this shot down aircraft for the past 71 years and all are excited over the project to excavate it from the ground, Mr Bamford said.
All seven crew on the plane perished, including the Lurgan born pilot, Holman Gordon S Kerr, son of Mr and Mrs J Kerr, Lurgan.
Gordon Kerr was formerly a junior official with the Belfast Banking Company and served in Rathfriland branch. The Belfast Banking Company merged with Northern Bank in 1970 and now trades as Danske Bank.
Gordon Kerr was educated at Lurgan College from September 3, 1934 until July 31, 1940.
Soon after leaving school, he joined the Belfast Banking Company and worked in its Rathfriland branch.
During the war, he was stationed at RAF Waterbeach, Cambridge. On the night of March 5, 1945, the crew flew their Lancaster bomber aircraft on an operation to Gelsenkirchen, a benzol plant, and it was shot down over Belgium.
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Witnesses of the crash said the plane disappeared nose down into soggy ground. But years later it was still possible to see marks in the meadow, indicating the last resting place of the huge plane, which had a length of 21 metres, height of six metres and wingspan of 31 metres.
Experts believed the wet ground may have preserved the craft over the last 70 years and the bombs it carried may still lie in the subsoil.
In the search for the craft, they used sonar technology to scan to a depth of eight metres. Mr Bamford said that the weekend excavation of the RAF Lancaster went well, although the aircraft was buried in fuel-soaked clay and this has made the excavation conditions difficult.
The locals were very respectful of the job they were doing and at all times treated the remains with much dignity. My photos show the small coffins draped with the Australian and United Kingdom flags, he said.
This exercise has helped to show that the remains of Pilot Officer Gordon Kerr were discovered at the time of the crash, but were unidentifiable.
The seven crew were F/O Holman Gordon Stanley Kerr, Sgt. William Marsden, F/Sgt. Sidney Smith, F/O Frank Clarke, F/Sgt. Allan Olsen, Sgt. Christopher George Hogg and Sgt. Herbert Percival Thomas.
The excavation was attended by the British and Australian ambassadors to Belgium and the excavation was carried out by Plane Hunters Recovery Team, assisted by many groups and volunteers.
A 14-year-old girl was among a number of young teenagers targeted by a sinister social media account posing as a Northern Ireland modelling agency. File image
A 14-year-old girl was among a number of young teenagers targeted by a sinister social media account posing as a Northern Ireland modelling agency.
Using the image messaging app Snapchat, the fake ACA Models account sent messages direct to teenagers and young women.
The recipients were told they could earn anywhere between 450 and 55,000 by working for the model and promotions company.
Alison Campbell, the agency's boss, was alerted to the fake account on Saturday, after her friend's daughter received a message.
And she stressed that her company does not recruit models online.
The Snapchat profile claimed to be from 'Louise' who said she worked as head of recruitment for ACA Models agency.
"The reason I have added you, is because after looking at least one of your Instagram photos we have decided that you are suitable to model for our agency," the message said.
"We are offering between 450 and 55,000 a shoot depending on who we put you forward for.
"In terms of different types of modelling we literally do every single type you could think of. Obviously the more you are interested in the better chance you have of getting jobs.
"This is a one-off opportunity and we are looking for 30 new models. This is purely based on a first come, first served basis.
"If you are interested, then please give me a message asap.
"Bear in mind the reason why we have added you to our company Snapchat account is because we are interested in you as well."
Former Miss Northern Ireland and ACA model, Leanne McDowell, issued a warning online not to accept messages from the fake account.
Many of the messages were sent in the early hours of Saturday morning and encouraged the teens and women to send pictures of themselves.
Miss Campbell also posted a warning on the official ACA Models Facebook page.
"I started getting lots of private messages from people asking if we were recruiting on Snapchat," she said. "Then I got a message from a 14-year-old girl asking if we were taking on new models through the app, as she had been asked to join.
"The young girl wrote back saying she was interested and that she would love to be a model and has always been interested.
"The person wrote back asking for some pictures of her and she sent some head pictures.
"The person replied and said they would like to see some body pictures.
"Fortunately she alerted her mum to the account after that.
"It's very dangerous. We definitely don't contact people through social media or send any alerts to any random people.
"It's happened in the past - people have been in Belfast city and went up to people saying they were from ACA Models and were scouting and asked for details."
A tribute at the scene of the crash
The son of a dissident murder victim who died in a road crash will be laid to rest tomorrow morning at the same church where his murdered father's funeral took place at in 2013.
Kevin Kearney-McMillan (27) died when his silver Toyota Supra careered off the road on York Street in Belfast close to its junction with the Limestone Road, colliding with a tree.
The north Belfast man had recently become a father again when he died on Friday.
Rescue teams cut him from his wrecked vehicle and he was rushed to the Belfast's Royal Victoria Hospital, but later died.
Last night, family and friends were preparing to say their final farewells at a funeral in Holy Family Church, north Belfast on Tuesday morning. He will be buried at Milltown Cemetery.
His heartbroken mother Jeanette spoke of her sorrow in a death notice, saying that she has lost her only son, who had a "heart of gold".
"We will miss your wit, wisdom, kindness and compassion, and most of all son, your presence in our lives," she said.
Mr Kearney-McMillan's partner Katie said: "Where do I begin, you were the love of my life, left too soon, my love for you went beyond the moon, stay close to me and the boys Kevin, we love and miss you so much, you were the heart and soul of our family, love you so much, your Katie and boys."
His grandmother Maureen McMillan expressed her devastation in another heartrending death notice.
"Your smile has gone forever, and your hands we can never touch, we have so many memories we all love you so much," she said.
Many friends have expressed solidarity with the family.
Flowers and notes have been left at the site of the road crash.
It is the second devastating tragedy for the family.
Mr Kearney-McMillan's father, Kevin Kearney, was killed by the dissident republican group which calls itself "the IRA" in October 2013 in what police at the time termed as a "callous and cold-blooded murder".
His body was found in a lake in Alexandra Park. He had been shot.
The 46-year-old father-of-four had left his daughter off at school on Tuesday morning, and returned home to take his dogs for a walk in Alexandra Park.
Mr Kearney's brother Martin spoke out at that time and said the murder had "torn us apart".
"He lived for his children. He spent almost every hour with his children. It has torn the family apart. It has been a very emotional week. We're just devastated," he said.
A former model, television personality and wedding planner who went on to become one of the UK's top law graduates has had his ambitions thrown into limbo by the Student Loans Company (SLC).
Antrim-born Anthony Miller, who often appears on Stephen Nolan's TV and radio shows, is one of 31 Northern Irish victims of a blunder by the company.
After initially being told they had been successful in their applications for loans to fund their postgraduate courses in England, the SLC said it had made a mistake and withdrew the offers.
The Masters students began their courses in September - but now the SLC has said the 10,000 they received was a mistake.
It has left Anthony - who starred in the BBC1 Northern Ireland Radio Face TV series - and the 30 others facing an uncertain future.
The 38-year-old graduated from Staffordshire University with a first class degree with honours in July and was set for a bright future as a lawyer, until he received the devastating news that Student Finance England, on behalf of the SLC, had done a U-turn.
The students from Northern Ireland had completed degrees in England and believed they were eligible for postgraduate funding there.
But after starting their courses, the SLC informed the students that the money was being withdrawn as they had moved to England to study and weren't normally resident there.
The SLC said the students from Northern Ireland did not "meet the residency requirements to be eligible for a postgraduate loan" and blamed "human error in the interpretation of the regulations when processing" the loan applications.
Anthony has said he has been left devastated and has been left with no option but to withdraw from the Masters degree in Legal Practice, a qualification he needs in order to pursue a career in law.
"I had enrolled on my course and my studies were going really well, then out of nowhere came the news that my funding had been withdrawn," he said.
"There was some uncertainty as to what the regulations would be and it was quite late in the summer before the Student Loans Company was prepared to receive applications.
"I spoke with various agents on a number of occasions and I was advised that I had met the requirements"
Anthony sent his application to the SLC and said he was told that he had been approved by a company advisor as well as by their automated system.
"I spoke with one of their agents who advised me that my funds would be paid within a couple of weeks as it was taking some time to process the applications and when I rang the Student Loans Company the automated answering system advised that my application had been approved," he said.
When the news came that Anthony had in fact been declined, based on the residency requirements, he immediately contacted the SLC.
He said he was advised that it may have been an error and should appeal, which he did.
SLC chief Steve Lamey sent Anthony a letter 15 days later which dealt the devastating blow that his appeal had not been upheld.
The letter stated: "Our records show that you were previously awarded funding by the devolved authority, Student Finance Northern Ireland for an undergraduate course in England".
"You have now completed that course and are progressing onto a postgraduate Master's degree course in England".
"When a student transitions immediately from one course to another it is considered a continuous study period and their residence remains their home region."
Anthony said he is currently seeking legal advice about what do next, and may take a case against the SLC.
Born in the Stiles estate in Antrim, he left St Joseph's Primary School having failed the 11-plus and then was expelled from St Malachy's High School before his GCSEs.
He finished school with no qualifications but had a modelling contract from the age of 15.
He moved to London at the age of 25 and set up a wedding planning service with his friend Richard Jones under the title Ant and Dic. The couple were among the first to plan the civil partnership celebrations of gay couples, a niche that got them featured on Wedding TV on Sky.
In 2011, he decided he wanted to become a lawyer and ended up one of the top law graduates in England.
A Belfast-born banker is understood to be among the leading contenders for appointment to the role of US ambassador to Ireland.
Michael George emigrated to the USA in the late 1980s and has since gone on to enjoy a stellar career in the financial services industry.
Mr George is managing director of Fortress Investment Group, the New York-based private equity giant that lost out to rival Cerberus in the competition to acquire Nama's Project Eagle Northern Ireland loan portfolio.
He is described by sources as a "strong supporter from day one" of Donald Trump and a "very close friend" of the US president-elect's son Donald Jr and son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Prior to joining Fortress in October 2009, George spent 10 years as a managing director at Deutsche Bank in New York. Before that, he spent 13 years at Lehman Brothers in New York and London, where he started his career.
An American citizen since the 1990s, he earned his MA in economics and post-graduate diploma in computer science from Cambridge University, having entered on an academic scholarship.
Mr George emailed the Taoiseach Enda Kenny's then-chief economic advisor, Andrew McDowell, on February 13, 2014, asking how Fortress might become involved in the bidding for Nama's Northern Ireland loan book, code-named Project Eagle.
In his email, George said: "We've heard that Nama/Dept of Finance is running a 'process' for the loans to NI borrowers. Being from the North, I've taken a keen interest in this 4bn portfolio and would like to throw our hat in the ring. Might you have any insight as to how we can get involved?"
Married with three children and living in New York, George is said to be a passionate follower of Irish rugby and takes a keen interest in Irish affairs.
In 2012 he hosted the launch of a finance internship for Queen's University Belfast students in his Manhattan home.
The event saw the unveiling of a portrait of senator George Mitchell, former special advisor to US president Bill Clinton on Ireland.
A letter written by Padraig Pearse ordering the 1916 Easter Rising volunteers to surrender will not be bought by the Irish government as it would waste resources, says a minister
A letter written by Padraig Pearse ordering the 1916 Easter Rising volunteers to surrender will not be bought by the Irish government as it would waste resources, says a minister.
Heritage Minister Heather Humphreys defended the decision not to buy the historic letter as its guide price at an upcoming auction of up to 1.5m (1.3m) was "rather a lot," she said.
The Pearse letter, written three days before his execution, was brought to the volunteers' garrison in Dublin's Four Courts, which then surrendered. She said the Republic's National Museum already has other surrender letters written by Pearse.
"The cost mentioned was between 1m and 1.5m so there were other pressures that we felt we had to meet.
"There were a number of such letters of a similar type. We felt that to spent 1m or 1.5m on one single letter would be rather a lot," she said.
Minister Humphreys was speaking at the unveiling of a monument at Glasnevin cemetery yesterday - a gift from the people of France to Ireland in recognition of the sacrifice of Irishmen on French battlefields, chiefly during the First World War.
The new France-Ireland Memorial was officially dedicated by French Minister Jean-Marc Todeschini and Ms Humphreys.
The memorial is over seven metres tall and consists of a Celtic cross surrounded by tall leaning rocks. The cross is a replica of a wooden cross created by the 16th Irish Division during the Battle of the Somme at the churchyard at Ginchy in France.
Nigel Farage has accused Downing Street of allowing "petty party politics" to get in the way of the national interest, after he was given the cold shoulder over his offer to act as a go-between with US President-elect Donald Trump.
Number 10 dismissed suggestions that the Ukip leader might become the "third person" in the relationship between Mr Trump and Prime Minister Theresa May, insisting that the Government already has "well-established" channels of communication.
Mr Farage scored a huge political coup in becoming the first British politician to meet Mr Trump after his election victory, and said he was ready to play a "constructive" role in fostering close UK relations with the new regime at the White House.
But Mrs May's official spokeswoman p ointed out that the Prime Minister has already had a phone conversation with Mr Trump, in which he invited her to visit Washington at the earliest opportunity and voiced his hopes of striking up a relationship comparable to that between Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher.
"The president-elect talked about enjoying the same relationship Reagan and Thatcher did," said the spokeswoman. "I don't remember there being any third person in that relationship."
In response, Mr Farage told LBC radio: "It just amazes me that those ghastly little apparatchiks that work in Downing Street put out statements like this. It just goes to show they are not really interested in the country or the national interest, they are more concerned about petty party politics and trying to keep me out of everything.
"If you think of America in terms of a business and think of them as a client we want to do business with. What would you do? You would use the person who has the connections. Nobody in this administration in the UK has any connections with the Trump team at all, and yet they are prepared on behalf of the country to cut off their noses to spite their faces."
Mr Farage, who spent around an hour with the president-elect in his Trump Tower home in New York, said he had only gone to the US to meet "old friends" in the politician's team and did not expect to meet Mr Trump himself.
Conservative former defence minister Sir Gerald Howarth said it was "not sensible" to ignore Mr Farage, and the May administration should "think out of the box" about their relations with Washington.
"If Nigel Farage is well-connected with Donald Trump - as it would appear that he is - then we should certainly be talking to him," Sir Gerald told BBC Radio 4's World At One. "I am not suggesting a formal role for him but I certainly do think it is worth talking to him."
Mr Farage appeared to hint he had spoken with ministers about his contacts with Mr Trump. Asked whether any Cabinet members had sounded him out, he told LBC "Not really", though he declined to explain his comment.
Pressed over whether Mrs May saw a role for Mr Farage, the PM's official spokeswoman said: "We have established routes of engagement with the president-elect and his team. Our diplomatic staff have been building those contacts and links in the run-up to the election ... Relations between the two teams are working well."
And she brushed off suggestions that ministers could be briefed by Mr Farage on his meeting, telling reporters: "It seems to me that there are pretty widespread reports of his visit to Trump, so I'm not sure they need to speak to him - they could just read the British press."
The spokeswoman said she "did not recognise" reports that Mrs May was disappointed that the UK embassy in Washington, led by ambassador Sir Kim Darroch, had not got closer to Mr Trump's team during the election campaign.
"The Prime Minister has welcomed the work that the diplomatic team have been doing at the embassy in Washington and the engagement from our ambassador to the US and his team with the teams of both candidates in the run-up to the election," she said.
The spokeswoman went on: "This is about the relationship between the Government of the United Kingdom and the president-elect and the office of the White House as it will be once he is inaugurated in the United States. There are well-established channels for that relationship between the elected politicians, the elected leader of the US and the Prime Minister of the UK and we intend to continue with that route."
Mr Farage said that the election of Mr Trump represented a "fantastic opportunity" for the UK which could give it extra clout in Brexit negotiations under Article 50 of the EU treaties.
"He is a really devoted Anglophile," said the Ukip leader. "He loves this country and he was talking about where his mum comes from in Scotland and how beautiful the countryside is and he has investments in this country.
"I think, talking not just to him but to his team, there is no question that they want the relationship between the US and UK to be back where it should be - because Obama very much downplayed it.
"I think we have got a fantastic opportunity here, a chance to do a trade deal with the USA. And the prospect of that - I think - strengthens our negotiating hand in Brussels after Article 50 is declared, so this is really important stuff."
Mr Farage dismissed Sir Kim as an "arch-europhile" and said that Mr Trump's team had "very long memories" about disobliging comments about the president-elect made by Cabinet ministers including Mrs May and Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson during the election campaign.
"I genuinely, honestly think I could play a constructive role here," said the Ukip leader. "But if I'm not wanted, what can I do?
"I don't want anything, I'm not asking for anything. I'm just saying that actually I can help with something that I think is very, very important."
Mr Farage said he did not believe that Steve Bannon - the Breitbart News chairman who has been appointed a senior adviser to Mr Trump, is a "white supremacist", as critics have claimed. And he said that while there "may be a bit of truth" in reports of a spike in hate crimes since the election, it was being "exaggerated" by Mr Trump's opponents.
Former chancellor George Osborne backed Mrs May's position.
Asked if he would hire Mr Farage to build bridges with Mr Trump, Mr Osborne told ITV's The Agenda: "Absolutely not, I mean Theresa May is a very sensible person who is not going to do that.
"The British Prime Minister or the British Government cannot contract its foreign policy out to Nigel Farage."
Mr Osborne urged Mrs May to focus on Brexit rather than relations with Mr Trump.
"For the first time really the most important decisions over the next few years are going to be about our relationship with Europe, not about our relationship with the United States," he said.
Home Secretary Amber Rudd has authorised the extradition of Lauri Love to the US, where he is accused of hacking into government computers, the Home Office said.
Mr Love, who has Asperger syndrome, is alleged to have stolen huge amounts of data from US agencies including the Federal Reserve, the US Army, the Department of Defence, Nasa and the FBI, in a spate of online attacks in 2012 and 2013.
US authorities have been fighting for the 31-year-old, who lives with his parents near Newmarket in Suffolk, to face trial over charges of cyber-hacking, which his lawyers say could mean a sentence of up to 99 years in prison if he is found guilty.
Responding to the announcement, Mr Love's father , the Rev Alexander Love, told the Press Association : "It was going to happen - it was inevitable - but it's still painful. I cannot begin to express how much sorrow it causes me."
He added: "All we are asking for is British justice for a British citizen."
During a hearing at Westminster Magistrates' Court on September 16, District Judge Nina Tempia ruled that Mr Love could be extradited.
Mrs Rudd had two months to consider four legal matters - including if there was a risk of the death penalty and extradition arrangements between the US and UK - before deciding whether to block or order extradition.
A Home Office spokesman said: "On Monday 14 November, the Secretary of State, having carefully considered all relevant matters, signed an order for Lauri Love's extradition to the United States.
"Mr Love has been charged with various computer hacking offences which included targeting US military and federal government agencies."
Mr Love, who could face the possibility of three separate trials in different jurisdictions, has 14 days to apply for permission to appeal against the decision.
It is alleged that between October 2012 and October 2013 Mr Love caused "millions of dollars" worth of damage by placing hidden "backdoors" within the networks he compromised, allowing them to return and steal confidential data.
Mr Love, who also suffers from depression and eczema, has said that a jail term in the US could cause his health to deteriorate and would lead to a mental breakdown or suicide.
Barry Sheerman, one of the more than 100 MPs who have signed a letter calling on US President Barack Obama to block Mr Love's extradition, said he was "deeply disappointed" at the decision.
The Labour MP for Huddersfield said: "We are still keeping up the pressure. We are getting more and more MPs to sign the letter to President Obama."
He added: "The pressure continues, we won't give up."
Conservative MP David Burrowes, who also led the fight to stop the extradition of Gary McKinnon, said the Home Secretary had little power to block the extradition and that he expected Mr Love to appeal against the decision.
The MP for Enfield Southgate said : "We hope that the High Court realises it would be disproportionate to extradite Mr Love and risk his life.
"Failing that we have to rely on Donald Trump to step in and be our knight in shining armour.
"President Obama is still going to be president until January and we still hope that in one of his final acts he could stop the extradition.
"Donald Trump is trying to show his fair mindedness, care and concern, and there is no better way to show that than to stop Lauri Love's extradition."
Tor Ekeland, Mr Love's US lawyer and an expert in hacking cases, said Mrs Rudd was "boxed in" by UK legislation and would have found it "very hard" to justify blocking the extradition.
He told Iain Dale on LBC: "We were expecting this because under the law in the UK now this is essentially a rubber stamp for the Home Secretary - there's not much latitude which she has.
"But he does have an appeal to the High Courts. We have one more shot at it in the UK."
Mr Ekeland added that he feared that Mr Love would face a "way harsher environment" in the US following Mr Trump's election than he would have under the Obama administration.
Mr Love has yet to comment but - in an apparent nod to the announcement - posted a picture of a beer on his Twitter page alongside the caption: "This one is dedicated to Her Majesty's Principal (if not Principled) Secretary of State for the Home Department."
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange will be questioned in the Ecuadorian embassy
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has finally been questioned in the presence of Swedish officials about a sex allegation.
Sweden's assistant prosecutor Ingrid Isgren and police inspector Cecilia Redell were present at the interview inside the Ecuadorian Embassy in London.
Questions supplied by Swedish officials were put by an Ecuador government representative to Mr Assange, who has always denied the allegation.
He has been living inside the embassy for over four years, believing that if he leaves, he will be extradited to the United States for questioning over the activities of WikiLeaks.
The results of the interview will be reported from Ecuador to the Swedish prosecutors in a written statement.
After this report, the prosecutors will take a view on the continuation of the investigation.
Ecuador's UK ambassador Carlos Ortiz was in the embassy during the interview, as well as lawyers for Mr Assange.
Ms Isgren faced a battery of photographers as she arrived at the embassy in Knightsbridge, and left four hours later, with up to 20 police officers holding back reporters, photographers and TV crews from across the world.
She made no comment and is not expected to say anything until well after the questioning is finished.
WikiLeaks tweeted: " After UN & court findings condemning 6 years of abuses by Sweden against Assange, Sweden finally takes his statement for the first time ever."
A small group of supporters stood outside the embassy, holding up banners calling for the WikiLeaks founder to be freed.
A statement on behalf of the Swedish prosecutors said: "As the investigation is ongoing, it is subject to confidentiality. This confidentiality also applies according to Ecuadorian legislation for the investigative measures conducted at the embassy. Therefore, the prosecutors cannot provide information concerning details of the investigation after the interview."
Swedish prosecutor Marianne Ny, who is responsible for the investigation, said: "I welcome the fact that the investigation can now move forward via an interview with the suspect."
As the interview got under way, Mr Assange's cat sat in a window looking out at the scenes in front of him, later returning wearing a small collar and tie.
The cat has its own Twitter feed, which says it lives with Mr Assange and is "interested in counter-purrveillance".
Human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell joined Assange supporters, saying he hoped the questioning would lead to the WikiLeaks founder being freed.
"WikiLeaks and Julian Assange have performed an important public service in exposing government deception and human rights abuses," he said.
"We are appalled it has taken the Swedish prosecutors six years to come and interview him. Julian has always said he is willing to meet them so why has it taken so long?
"It is clear that the Swedish prosecutor has seriously mishandled the case and subjected Julian to unreasonable delays that have denied his right to swift and fair justice.
"We have always said Julian Assange should answer the serious sex allegations but he has made it clear he is willing to answer the allegations."
Emma Butlin is part of a group which has been holding vigils outside the embassy three or four days a week since Mr Assange arrived more than four years ago.
She said support for Mr Assange remained strong.
Sources said the questioning of Mr Assange could take up to three days.
WikiLeaks said in a statement that after six years of offering his statement to the Swedish authorities, Mr Assange has finally been afforded the opportunity to do so.
It continued: "There have been numerous irregularities in Sweden's preliminary investigation, which the UN has described as "excessive and unnecessary".
"Sweden's failure to progress the preliminary investigation until now has resulted in a gross breach of Mr Assange's right to be presumed innocent and has fatally harmed his ability to meaningfully defend himself.
"Unfortunately, the irregularities with procedure have continued today. Mr Assange's Swedish counsel, Per Samuelson, was not notified or summoned to attend the procedure by the relevant prosecution authorities, despite the fact that the process concerns a preliminary investigation in Sweden under Swedish law in the presence of a Swedish prosecutor. "
Mr Assange's Swedish defence counsel had travelled to London in the hope of being able to attend. In spite of the fact that Mr Assange's Ecuadorian counsel, Carlos Poveda Moreno, raised concern that Mr Samuelson was not present at the start of the procedure, the authorities in charge proceeded anyway.
"This clear breach of process did not stop Mr Assange cooperating fully. Mr Assange felt compelled to participate even with these problems.
"For the first time since August 2010, Mr Assange was finally able to give his statement in relation to this allegation. He has done so in part to ensure the Swedish authorities have no further excuse not to discontinue their preliminary investigation.
"In the presence of Swedish prosecutors, but without his Swedish defence counsel, he offered his full cooperation throughout the process. These irregularities will be raised in a formal setting in the near future."
(l-r) Admi Headley, 34, Paul Bromwich, 54 and Wayne Maycock, 33, who absconded from HMP Leyhil, south Gloucestershire, on Nov 13.
Police are hunting for three prisoners serving sentences for crimes including rape, grievous bodily harm and robbery who absconded from an open jail.
Admi Headley, Wayne Maycock and Paul Bromwich are considered to be a risk to the public, Avon and Somerset Constabulary said, appealing for help tracing the men.
The trio were last seen at HMP Leyhill, a Category D prison in South Gloucestershire, at 4.45pm on Sunday and have links to the Manchester area, said the force, which has alerted Greater Manchester Police.
Headley, 34, is described as black, 5ft 10in tall, of slim build with brown eyes and short black hair. He has a tattoo on his left arm.
Maycock, 33, is white, 6ft 3in tall, of medium build with green eyes and brown hair. He has a tattoo on his right shoulder and scars on his forehead and both arms.
Bromwich, 54, who also uses the name Smith, is 6ft tall, of medium build with blue eyes. He wears glasses and has a scar on the left side of his face and tattoos on both arms.
Their disappearance comes less than a week since two men escaped from HMP Pentonville in north London, although both have now been apprehended.
Police urged anyone who sees Headley, Maycock or Bromwhich to phone 999 and tell the call handler they are phoning in relation to log 1050 of 13/11.
Any information on where they may be can be passed on to police by calling 101 and quoting the same log.
Burma police officers patrol along the border fence in Maungdaw, Rakhine State. (AP)
At least 34 people were killed in Burma after they attacked troops in western Rakhine state over the weekend, the government says.
But villagers belonging to the Muslim Rohingya minority say the victims were unarmed civilians.
The government has been conducting counterinsurgency operations since nine police officers were killed in attacks last month on guard posts along the border with Bangladesh generally blamed on Muslim insurgents.
Tensions have been high in Rakhine since fighting in 2012 between Buddhists and Muslims.
The government said in a statement on Monday that 28 people described as "violent attackers" were killed on Sunday.
An earlier statement said six attackers died on Saturday, in addition to two government soldiers.
Human rights groups accuse the army of abuses against the Rohingya minority, including killings, rapes and burning of homes.
AP
European Union foreign ministers are trying to reach a common stance on Turkey over the government crackdown on political opponents and the media
European Union foreign ministers are trying to reach a common stance on Turkey over the government crackdown on political opponents and the media.
EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said she and the ministers would strive for "a common, united position on developments in Turkey".
Turkey and the EU have been locked in a war of words over Ankara's commitment to democracy and rule of law in the wake of the failed coup in the country in July.
EU officials say it is time for Ankara to say whether it really wants to join, but Ms Mogherini said the future of membership would not be on the table at Monday's talks in Brussels.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has suggested holding a referendum on the future of the membership bid.
Addressing a group of farmers, Mr Erdogan said: "Let's wait in patience until the end of the year and then go to the people."
He was responding to reports that the European Parliament's president said Turkey could face economic sanctions in response to the country's increased crackdown on opposition voices.
President Erdogan also accused the EU of not keeping its promises and of supporting the outlawed Kurdish militants.
AP
Kurdish Peshmerga fighters gather near a frontline during fighting with IS militants in Bashiqa, east of Mosul (AP)
Iraqi forces battled waves of suicide car bombs yesterday as they attempt to advance deeper into Mosul in the face of heavy resistance from the Islamic State (IS) group.
Troops were converging from several fronts on the city, Iraq's second-largest and the extremists' last major holdout in the country.
The special forces have advanced the furthest so far and hold a handful of urban districts.
Officers say they have cleared the areas of Qadisiya and Zahra, and are planning to advance further.
Over the past week they have inched forward slowly, trying to avoid casualties among their troops and civilians as suicide bombers in armour-plated vehicles rush forward from hiding spots among densely-populated areas.
"The only weapons they have left are car bombs and explosives," said Iraqi special forces Major General Sami al-Aridi.
"There are so many civilian cars and any one of them could be a bomb."
Several suicide car bombers attacked in the same area on Saturday, injuring around a dozen troops, three civilians and killing a child, officers said.
The troops are building road blocks to prevent car bombs from breaching the front lines.
Since last week's quick advance into Mosul proper, they have struggled to hold territory under heavy IS counter-attacks.
Donald Trump did not offer Nigel Farage a job in his administration when the pair met in New York at the weekend.
"I'm not going to be working for the American administration. Of course I'm not," the Ukip interim leader told Sky News.
"I don't think that's going to happen at all, but if I can be useful in any way to the British government then I am very happy to do so."
The government has also confirmed that Mr Farage will not assist with the UK's relations with the Trump administration.
Senior Conservative Crispin Blunt said it is "completely implausible" the Ukip leader would take up such a role.
Mr Farage had hinted that ministers are sounding him out about dealing with Mr Trump, as he revealed the US president-elect's close advisers have "reservations" about Theresa May's government.
The interim Ukip leader, who became the first British politician to meet Mr Trump since his shock victory, insisted he could act as a bridge between Downing Street and Trump Tower if asked.
Asked if he had contact with Cabinet figures regarding his close ties to the incoming Republican president, Mr Farage told Sky News: "I am not going to go into whatever private phone calls I may, or may not, have had with individual ministers."
In a swipe at No 10 officials who have dismissed his links to Mr Trump, the Ukip leader said: "It would appear that the apparatchiks in Downing Street keep saying very negative things about me. I'd have thought that's just a little bit short-sighted, frankly.
"I would have thought, in the national interest, they perhaps ought to bury their personal enmity towards me and we ought to have a constructive conversation." Mr Farage disclosed that members of the president-elect's inner circle were concerned about unflattering comments made by British Cabinet ministers, though Mr Trump told him he had a "nice" phone call with Mrs May.
"He said he had a nice conversation, although some of his team had reservations about what members of the Cabinet have said during the election. Believe you me, his team are conscious of the comments," Mr Farage told the Daily Telegraph.
The pair met at Trump Tower in New York and spent over an hour discussing the president-elect's victory, global politics and Brexit, according to Ukip. Mr Farage used US media appearances to warn Mrs May that she needed to "mend fences" with Mr Trump after the "quite rude" things said about him by leading Tories.
Asked on Fox News why the president-elect should meet the PM after the things senior Tories had said about him, Mr Farage said: "I think he has got to meet her. Mrs May's team have been quite rude about Trump, so there are some fences to be mended."
Downing Street moved to try to play down the significance of the Ukip leader's meeting with Mr Trump. A spokesman for Mrs May said No 10 "has been consistent that Mr Farage has no role" in the Government's relationship with the incoming US administration.
Shared values: Naomi at home with her husband Michael and dog Daisy in Belfast
Celebration time: Naomi with husband Michael on the night she was elected as party leader
New Alliance leader Naomi Long tells Noel McAdam about her vision for the party going forward in Northern Ireland and discusses the rise of women in politics.
Q. You have taken over the leadership from David Ford. How do you intend to differ from him?
A. It's not really about difference. People always look for difference, I look on it as diversity.
David had a different manner. I have my own way of doing things and it is really about complementing each other.
We are both passionate about the same things. But over the next few years it will be for me to put my own mark on things. David has done some really good work, he has moved the party from the centre and not just stabilised it, but achieved electoral success for us.
Q. Are there any specific party policies you want to re-examine ?
A. We probably have the most developed policy platforms of any of the parties.
Our summaries can be as long as other party's entire manifestos (laughs).
Yet there are and will be issues, for example, how we build on the strong base that we have.
Q. And yet the base is Belfast-centric, aren't you really an east of the Bann party ?
A. We have some really good people who have joined in the west, and, absolutely, there are missed opportunities and surprise wins where we want to build.
For us it's not just greater Belfast. We have limited resources as a party and we recognise that is the case. So we have to target those resources in areas where we think the chances of a seat are greatest and that has been in the last five years in the east of the province.
But there is now a break in the electoral cycle which will allow us to look at other areas.
Q. Would your initial focus be on the local government elections in two and a half years and where do you see the potential for Alliance growth beyond Belfast?
A. I am not making a list of predictions at this point, but internally in the party we are looking at those targets.
There are people out there who make a real difference in their local communities and would want to sit on their local councils.
Q. You have made clear on social media and elsewhere that you are not a unionist. What are you?
A. I am not a unionist or a nationalist. People see this as a binary issue. The reality is I do not define myself in those binary terms, because it does not reflect my politics which is about celebrating diversity and it is not about the politics of the border.
Q. Do you have sympathy with Anna Lo's long-held views that she could favour a united Ireland?
A. That's not really news any more, is it? We have known for a very long time that there are people in Alliance holding those views.
It is not what defines Anna's politics or David's politics or mine, it is about building a shared future.
There is a whole diversity of opinion within the party but united around the common core vision of wanting Northern Ireland to be a society in which rights are respected and each person is valued.
Q. Are you happy with your public image?
A. I don't give a lot of thought to my public image, I don't think politics is about image or how people present themselves, but what policies and values drive them. I am not concerned about superficial things.
Q. Do you like your Ginger Ninja nickname?
A. I do. I have never been anything other than happy with my ginger hair, and if I am a ninja I am happy to adopt that too.
Q. Even though it is now being used by senior people routinely throughout the party?
A. It was one of those ones that someone used in a tweet - I can't remember who - so I actually thought the party turned it round and started using it, to our advantage.
Sometimes when people say things on Twitter in bad temper it's very easy for it to escalate, so sometimes a bit of humour is the best thing you can do.
Q. Do you feel there is an attempt by the UUP and the SDLP to freeze Alliance out at Stormont?
A. It depends on the issue, certainly I think the UUP attempt to reach out very publicly to the SDLP at their conference last month may well be motivated by that, but it also comes from commentators saying there needs to be a new message from the opposition.
Opposition parties present their own individual positions, and coalition governments have to withstand that pressure. We have worked with the SDLP and UUP, and indeed with both parties in government, on issues we care about. If it is their aim to freeze Alliance out, the temperature has not dropped sufficiently for it to work.
And it won't work.
Q. After losing your East Belfast seat back to the DUP you spent a long time contemplating your future. Did you come close to thinking of giving politics up?
A. I suppose it was an opportunity I had never really had, I got elected almost by surprise in 2001 and from there it was very rapid in terms of progress. I was in the Assembly within a year and a half of being Lord Mayor.
It all happened very quickly and I wanted to take time to reflect and to be certain I was coming back to politics for the right reasons and because I still had something to say and was still passionate about what we want to do.
So I took the time to really think that through. I did try to take a complete step back but politics is a very addictive thing to be involved in and I decided I wanted to be part of trying to be making things better.
Q. And how difficult do you gauge it is to replace someone who has been leader for 15 years - do you plan that kind of time period?
A. I haven't thought that far ahead. That is not a decision for me, it is for the party.
Although I have been elected I have to be re-elected next year and each year after.
At the moment it is about ensuring whatever changes we make, whatever challenges we face, we can achieve.
I am not thinking beyond getting to that point.
Q. As party leader do you think you will still engage as much as you do on social media?
A. It is an interesting one. My social media is slightly different. It started in my personal area and I guess it's me, it's who I am - the mix of personal and political and I think it's a very useful way to communicate with people and get across ideas, not just when people are agreeing with you but when they are not.
Q. What about the harsh comments you get from time to time?
A. Some of the trolling is horrific and personally abusive, but I have always been respectful with people.
It is still my intention to be very engaged in social media.
Q. We now have a female First Minister, a woman PM, Scottish First Minister - what do you think about the rise of women in politics?
A. It has been a long time in coming. I think it is good to see women in politics but I don't get carried away with that.
When I was growing up we had a female Prime Minister (Margaret Thatcher) and I shared very few of her views and disagreed about how she went about doing politics.
But having a female Prime Minister was something that shaped my views on whether politics was something that women did.
It is very good that young people see woman working in non-traditional roles - it is just the way of the world.
I still think from the perspective of young people growing up - and having always worked in predominately male environments - having women actually improves politics.
Q. Do you think there is a task in hand in reaching out to men?
A. I don't know, it's not something I have had huge resistance to.
I have had huge support in the party.
A male colleague brought me into the party and a male colleague put my name forward for deputy leader and for running for Lord Mayor.
From my perspective, the gender issue in the party has never been a barrier.
Women in the party tend to do quite well, Anna Lo did the best in the European elections of all our candidates over the years and I did the best in East Belfast.
Most men actually want to see women performing well, engaging in the workforce, they do not see it as a battle or struggle,
That is not to say you don't encounter sexism and gender stereotypes but it is how you address those that really makes a difference.
There are huge opportunities, I don't think it's a competition.
Q. You and your husband Michael have been together a long time -you must have considered the impact being leader of the Alliance party will have on your personal and family life?
A. Yes we have and over the years politics has in different ways impacted very directly on our home life and the time we have with family and friends
But the vision we share comes from even before we were married and we are both very committed to that.
I am very lucky in having a husband who is forgiving when I have another meeting to go to.
We are a bit better at striking the balance and finding ourselves some time to be together.
I am not a member of Sinn Fein, nor ever have been, but I can still harbour hopes that they will make moves that would be good for us all. I criticise them from outside and yet I can understand why they, within their own terms, would find some things difficult. I imagine myself sitting in an ard comhairle meeting, urging them to allow their MPs to take their Westminster seats, and I can anticipate the arguments for and against.
The 'for' argument would be that they might be able to swing a vote against the immediate triggering of Article 50, which will set the timetable for the UK's departure from the European Union. Theresa May seems likely to be told by the Supreme Court that she cannot act on Royal Prerogative, but that she must put a Bill before parliament.
Parliament seems unlikely to rally adequate forces against actual Brexit, but it might insist on an amendment or two to the Bill, setting down limits to how comprehensive the final exit might be.
Even now, Labour and the DUP and others are saying that they will not oppose the Bill, not even having read it yet. As far as they are concerned, the Supreme Court will have secured their right to an opinion and they will have waived it.
Only the SDLP and the SNP, as far as I can tell, will be there to oppose Brexit altogether. And Labour doesn't seem to have copped on yet that there is a middle way, amending the Bill and forcing May to come back with something better. Maybe they will. Maybe Sinn Fein should be using its long friendship with Jeremy Corbyn to tip the party in that direction.
While it doesn't look now as if Sinn Fein's four MPs could tilt the balance, that occasion may arise if Labour stiffens its resolve a bit. Might it even be tempted to do so for the prize of having four Sinn Fein MPs on the benches to support them on other issues?
The argument against Sinn Fein entering Westminster by taking an oath of allegiance to the Queen is that it would be throwing away a foundational principle. That principle is that there is one legitimate parliament in Ireland and that is the first Dail, established by the general election of 1918, in which Sinn Fein got a majority and declared Ireland an independent nation.
There isn't a lot left of that principle. It was compromised by the decision to fight for - and take - seats in the Dail.
It has also been made irrelevant by Sinn Fein running a devolved administration in Northern Ireland and thereby deferring to the right of the British parliament to delegate power to it.
The other component of that principle is that taking seats in Westminster would involve swearing an oath of allegiance to the monarch. Yet, other republicans did that in the past, including British republicans and Republican Labour MP Gerry Fitt, as did De Valera, when he entered the Dail in 1927, declaring it "an empty political formula".
A pragmatic political activist would not allow the way forward to be blocked by such trivia, knowing that the oath would not bind him or her to anything of substance. Indeed, in recent years Sinn Fein has framed its objection to taking seats at Westminster in different terms. It has said that it has always been able to achieve more through direct negotiation with prime ministers than the SDLP has achieved through joining debates and asking questions.
This is the pragmatic defence of abstention. But it would fall apart if negotiations didn't prove as fruitful as debating and voting might. Take the scenario in which Theresa May puts forward a Bill to allow her to trigger Brexit and fails to pass it, because she refuses to accept amendments prosed by Labour. The SDLP has entered the debate with the determination to oppose Brexit.
May would then call a general election. The SDLP would campaign for more support on the grounds that it would be turning up for the fight. Abstention would not then look like an attractive selling-point for Sinn Fein.
And the fact that Sinn Fein has been defending abstention on the pragmatic argument, rather than the old principles, suggests that they know that the voters want what works. They are not ready to make sacrifices to defend the legitimacy of the first Dail - an argument that Sinn Fein has already given away.
And they will wonder what's so important about not taking the oath when Martin McGuinness is starting to look like the most eager monarchist among us, shaking the Queen's hand at every opportunity and even posing proudly beside her portrait. The abstention policy has been hugely important in the past, but it has also been overturned by those who were previously most committed to it.
In 1970, the IRA split over it. The Provisional IRA was formed in assertion of the refusal to recognise the Dail. But what was really going on then? The north had been ignited and the real difference between the two wings of the IRA was the question of whether to escalate. They called it "defending the Catholic community".
Sixteen years later, Gerry Adams drove through a change in Sinn Fein policy on the grounds that the Provisional IRA had already decided in favour of them taking seats in the Dail. That split the movement again, though the old purists were in a small minority and their Republican Sinn Fein is now a negligible force in Irish politics.
Surely, the greatest lesson of republican history is that those who preserve the pure flame warm their hands by it alone. And modern Sinn Fein wants to grow and wants to take power and has already swallowed other shibboleths for the sake of it.
Well, they now have a chance to be part of the biggest row in decades. Or they can stand aside and watch the SDLP and the SNP fight for the rights of devolved regions who voted against Brexit.
They may not have much prospect of winning in that fight - but when did that ever stop them?
Political reputations will be made in the coming months and years as nationalists from Scotland and Northern Ireland defy the right of England to make decisions for the rest of us. Isn't that what Sinn Fein was created to do?
The alternative is that we will rely on the schizophrenic partnership of Martin McGuinness and Arlene Foster to impress on Theresa May the need to get the best deal for Northern Ireland, each of them hobbled by the need to hold together.
And this while Nicola Sturgeon and Mark Durkan are on the battlements shouting in unison: No Surrender.
A restaurant owner who vowed to leave backwards Belfast unlawfully took money from a staff members wages in a row over damaged shutters.
Emma Bricknell, who owns the popular city centre bistro Made In Belfast, accused senior sous chef Michael Patton of deliberately causing the damage in an incident in April this year.
The Englishwoman, who called Northern Ireland a laughing stock over its poor transport links, docked 501 from Mr Pattons wages to cover the cost of the repair work, saying he did it maliciously.
Mr Patton took a tribunal case against Blondtrepeneur Ltd, trading as Made In Belfast, of which Ms Bricknell is the sole director.
Employment Judge Neil Drennan ruled she had done so unlawfully saying there was no concrete evidence that Mr Patton was responsible for the damage.
The tribunal was told that on the evening of April 1, Mr Patton was checking the number of diners that had been served when he noticed the shutters start to open.
Thinking he had accidentally triggered the shutter fob in his pocket, he pressed the button to bring them down again.
A manager came in and alerted him that an employees bicycle had become stuck under the shutters, unknown to Mr Patton.
The manager asked him if he had operated the shutters which he admitted to doing. After seeing the bike wasnt damaged Mr Patton went back into the kitchen.
Mr Patton told the tribunal he wasnt aware that damage had been caused to the shutters until he returned to work on April 4.
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He was then told that the owner, Ms Bricknell, was blaming him for causing the damage and in a text message conversation she accused him of acting with malicious intent and said he would have to pay for it.
A manager told Mr Patton he was now barred from the premises and not required to work out his notice. He had intended to leave on April 11 having worked there for three years.
A human resources consultant carried out an investigation and three other employees said they thought Mr Patton opened the shutters as a practical joke and that he may have been drinking alcohol.
Despite his denials, the investigator decided that he had been drinking alcohol that evening but that he had not caused the damage deliberately.
Judge Drennan said that the evidence gathered had not been properly tested and Ms Bricknell didnt give Mr Patton a chance to look at the report or to challenge the conclusions.
The judge ordered that Mr Patton be paid the 501.60 that was taken from him.
In January last year Ms Bricknell vowed to leave Northern Ireland for Ibiza due to licensing law red tape, social attitudes and lack of transport links to Europe and beyond. We are a laughing stock to the rest of the UK and the Republic, she fumed.
Its just beaten the life out of me. You cant move a licence, you cant get a bar licence.
Politicians are just useless and you just need to dissolve Stormont and put Dublin or London in charge.
At time of going to press, Ms Bricknell was still living in Northern Ireland.
OUTBURST: Emma Bricknell, the owner of Made In Belfast (top), hit the headlines before for criticising the city
A serial child rapist is now back behind bars for allegedly breaching the conditions of his early release licence.
But questions are being asked, not only about the decision to free Leo Hoad, but also why he was put in a Belfast hostel a short distance from six schools and youth clubs.
Sunday Life has learned that until his arrest in July, the Fermanagh-born paedophile was living at Thompson House on the Antrim Road.
The complex, nicknamed Perverts Paradise, has previously housed child sex killers like Ronnie Graham and John Clifford.
It had a 2million extension added to it in 2012, increasing fears that more perverts would be moved in.
After frightened locals staged protests at its doors, they claim to have struck a verbal deal with its Presbyterian Church owners that dangerous sex offenders would not stay at the hostel.
But that agreement is now in tatters with the revelation that Leo Hoad was housed there during the summer, and was arrested at the complex on suspicion of breaching a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (Sopo).
One long-term Antrim Road resident told Sunday Life: The demonstrations were called off after we were assured that no dangerous sex offenders would stay at Thompson House.
People will be shocked that a child rapist like Leo Hoad was living at the hostel because it is surrounded by schools. The fact that he was arrested for breaching his release licence proves that he is still dangerous.
There are 84 CCTV cameras monitoring Thompson House, and sex offenders are confined to the building until 9.30am, and between 2pm and 4pm, when schools are opening and closing.
But that did not stop Leo Hoad being taken into custody by police on July 18 amid claims he had breached a Sopo.
The 38-year-old appeared via video-link at Belfast Magistrates Court last Thursday for an update on the
case.
A Presbyterian Church spokesman said that admissions to Thompson House are made by the Probation Board after a thorough risk assessment process.
He added: The safety of the local community is paramount and part of the regime at Thompson House.
That regime is based on the risk assessment and is robustly monitored by staff and by the designated risk manager, which is the advantage of having approved accommodation that is monitored, totally accountable and open to external inspection.
Leo Hoad is considered one of Northern Irelands most dangerous paedophiles, having admitted 11 charges of rape and two indecent assaults against two children.
The pervert was aged 13 when he started an eight-year sex assault campaign against his victims, who were aged just seven and eight when the abuse began.
In 2012 Hoad, who is on the sex offenders register for life, was sentenced to seven years in prison and a further three years probation for his sickening crimes.
He had been living in Thompson House for only a matter of weeks before being arrested for allegedly breaching the terms of his early release.
A Loyalist double killer and the son-in-law of UDA boss Jim Spence have admitted running a fuel smuggling racket with nationalist criminals from west Belfast and Tyrone.
Sectarian murderer Robert Brooksy Clarke, 64, and Mark Pollock, 37, pleaded guilty to conspiring to fraudulently evade customs duty at Belfast Crown Court last Wednesday.
Pollock who is married to UDA godfather Jim Spences daughter Becky also admitted possessing 94,000 of criminal property.
In a real hands across the barricades operation the loyalists were trading in what is understood to be Provo-supplied smuggled fuel with crooks from the Twinbrook and Lenadoon estates in west Belfast, and Coalisland.
All three areas are considered republican heartlands and will lead to questions being asked of Clarke and Pollock, who will be sentenced in January.
Convicted with them of conspiring to fraudulently evade customs duty on fuel, and given suspended sentences ranging from two to three years, were:
Tracey Mary ONeill, 39, from Gortgonis Road in Coalisland;
William George, 46, from Glenwood View in west Belfast;
Paul Charles Keenan, 47, from Creeslough Park in west Belfast;
Alan McVeigh, 33, from Twaddell Avenue in Belfast;
Derek Stevenson, 54, from Gortnagallon Road in Crumlin;
Ian Thompson, 57, from Ballykennedy Road in Crumlin;
Robert Brooksy Clarke and Mark Pollocks guilty pleas on the eve of their trial last Wednesday brings to an end a lengthy probe into a major fuel smuggling racket that started in 2010.
The loyalist pair who are now understood to be at loggerheads oversaw the lucrative scheme that involved cut-price dodgy diesel which originated in south Armagh being sold to unsuspecting motorists.
The scam, which was based at Clarkes fuel yard on the Dundrod Road near Crumlin, continued even after he had been jailed in 2011 for murder.
When the loyalist was caged for the 1973 UDA killing of Alfred Fusco, he left Pollock in charge of his business affairs.
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Criminal sources claim it was then that the fuel yard started being supplied with the smuggled diesel.
In June 2011, customs officials raided Clarkes business, which was based in the grounds of his sprawling home, and seized documents.
They also searched his office on the Shankill Road, as well as Pollocks plush house on the Belfast Road at Nutts Corner.
It was there that they discovered 94,000 of criminal cash.
From ledgers and financial accounts they pieced together the trail of illegal fuel that led to west Belfast and Coalisland.
Robert Brooksy Clarke was first jailed in 1975 for the sectarian murder of Catholic Margaret ONeill, 58, who was shot dead by the UDA as she walked along the New Lodge Road in north Belfast. He was freed around 1990, but caged again in 2011 for the 1973 murder of ice-cream shop owner Alfred Fusco by the terror gang.
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But because the killing occurred before the signing of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, shaven-headed Clarke only had to serve a nominal two year prison term.
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Whether youre a caregiver or a parent; a Christian attorney holding back the barbarians of political correctness; or a homemaker trying to juggle twenty tasks an hour, you need strength from beyond the stars. Supernatural strength. Inner strength. Spiritual strength. As hymnist Josiah Condor put it, we need daily strength for daily needs.
We take on too much; but, then, were passionate. We overbook our schedules; but, then, were committed. Wed rather be useful than bored, but theres a cost to our ardor. Exhaustion is the occupational hazard of twenty-first-century life, especially for the people of the Lord. Especially in election years like this when were standing in the gap of a crumbling nation.
The writer of Psalm 84 needed strength too. He was leaving home for Jerusalem to attend one of the great Jewish festivals. He badly wanted to visit the Temple, yet he dreaded the rigor of the trip. But he consoled himself with this thought: Blessed are those whose strength is in you, whose heart are set of pilgrimage. As they pass through the valley of Baka, they make it a place of springs. They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.
This verse is similar to another one, which said our lives should be a pilgrimage from glory to glory (2 Corinthians 3:18, NKJV); and another that spoke of traveling from faith to faith (Romans 1:17, NKJV).
These verses mark the forward progress that ought to characterize our interior lives. We should be doing better than we are, getting stronger, climbing higher. Too many of us are weakened by the worries of life when we should be fortified by the grace of God. How, then, do we go from strength to strength, from glory to glory, and from faith to faith?
First, lets get the rest we need.
As we get older and busier, its increasingly vital to have a reasonable bedtime, and to awaken, whenever possible, without an alarm clock. Who wants to awaken every morning to the sound of alarm? Life is alarming enough without starting the day alarmed. When youre exhausted, remember the words of Jesus in Mark 6:31: Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.
Everyone occasionally needs an alarm clock, but if we have a reasonable bedtime well awaken more naturally and happily. In the end, well get more done with a bit more sleep. It might even save our lives. Robert Murray MChyene, one of Scotlands greatest preachers, died at age 29, largely due to overwork and exhaustion. He reportedly said, The Lord gave me a horse to ride and a message to deliver. Alas, Ive killed the horse and cannot deliver the message.
An occasional overnight getaway, a gentle hike, and a day off can keep the horse alive. Your annual vacation (if its planned right) can add years of service. Its odd to consider it this way, but turning off your bedtime lamp fifteen minutes earlier might be one of your smartest moves of the day.
Second, our daily devotions represent veritable power lines from heaven.
When asked for advice, popular pastor and 20th century Christian leader Dr. Stephen Olford, once said, Never, never miss your quiet time. These words of advice should never be forgotten and we should always take them seriously.
The prophet Jeremiah lived in an age similar to ours, when every national leader was worse than the previous one, when fewer and fewer people were interested in biblical answers, and when society was swirling down the tube like dirty bathwater. His secret for finding daily strength for daily needs? Jeremiah 15:16 says: When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my hearts delight, for I bear your name, Lord God Almighty.
When Elijah the prophet faltered and tumbled into a nervous breakdown, his only restorative was the still, small voice of the Lord, which came to him at Horeb as a gentle whisper (1 Kings 19:12).
By going to bed a bit earlier, perhaps well wake up in time to have our morning coffee with the Lord and hear His still, small voice at the beginning of the day.
That leads to the third suggestion for daily strengthdaylong and lifelong Scripture memory and meditation. Scripture memory and biblical meditation are forgotten disciplines for todays Christians, and the church is suffering grievously for their loss. These twin habits keep Christians going.
Lets take memorization for example. Choose twelve verses on the subject of strength. They can include Deuteronomy 33:25: Your strength will equal your days. Second Chronicles 16:9 says: The eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. Paul wrote in Philippians 4:13, I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.
Learn those verses by heart and meditate on them often. Once you rehearse those verses in your mind, you can see them, hear them, visualize them, pray them, claim them, and they become a sort of internal generator that powers enthusiasm. The book The Strength You Need, goes through all twelve verses to show how each is a direct power line to heaven.
People are hungry for Scripture because theyre starving for strength.
This is no time to go wobbly. Our election is leaving us without godly options, and our nation is at risk. Can we can turn the tides? Is America past the possibility of a revival? These times require strength. In our personal lives and in the public square, we need the strength to represent Christ with hope, joy, optimism, and freshness. We cant do that if were exhausted and exasperated. We can do it if were awakening every working to hear a word from the Lord, and memorizing and meditating on His Word day and night.
In a world thats lurching from crisis to crisis, lets go from strength to strength. Lets get our rest, have our devotions, and tap into the power of Scripture memory and meditation. These are simple changes to make in our daily habits, but the ramifications are immediate. The Lord alone can give us daily strength for daily needs. He alone will impart the strength we need for our pilgrimage. You can be stronger today than you are, and you must be if youre going to turn your Valley of Baca into a place of springs.
Robert J. Morgan is the pastor of the 3,000-member Donelson Fellowship Church in Nashville, Tenn., which he has served for more than 30 years. He is a bestselling and Gold Medallion-winning author with more than 25 books in print. His most recent book is The Strength You Need (W Publishing Group).
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Well, America, we are becoming less religious. As the millennial generation moves into adulthood more and more members are displaying less religious fervor. They are sick as business as usual and find the church to be defined by hypocrisy. About 30 percent of people believe they can find God outside of the church and 20 percent reported feeling that God is missing from church, Barna research found. Some people who once loved their church are seeing disgruntled and leadership falling into decay despite the elaborate buildings and programs. This is not about loving Godthis runs deeper as His representatives on earth are losing the very essence of the Great Commission. More people over 18 are moving towards being unaffiliated. The main drop off in Christianity has been driven mainly by declines among mainline Protestants and Catholics. Each of those large religious traditions has shrunk by approximately three percentage points since 2007, the Pew Research Center found. Between 2007 and 2014, the Christian share of the population fell from 78.4 percent to 70.6 percent. About 78 percent of people who once identified with Christian groups like Protestants, Catholics and Mormons have switched religions because they feel those traditions are no longer serving them.
Just as followers started getting out of the legalistic churches, legalism was replaced with a focus on church growth. With this, secularism crept into the sanctuaries. What started as an ideological focus of growth has turned the church into a cash cow. What blinders are we wearing? Where did we miss it? George Barna, the founder of the Barna Research Group, unearthed that success is one of the reasons for the mess the church is in. There are 5 categories that summed it up when pastors where asked: How do they know that their church is successful? The answer was Attendance, giving, number of programs, number of staff, and square footage. If the goals are not met, just like in the corporate world, it begins to fail. Lets rewind here a minute. If we dont make these quotas the church is a failure? Do we need to go to the Book? Yes, the Book we preach from and read from called the Bible. There is the 5-fold ministry that is to prepare Gods people for works of service so the Body of Christ may be built up until we have unity with Christ. In Ephesians 4:11 the 5-fold-ministry called for some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists and some to be pastors and teachers. This certainly wasnt listed in the answers pastors provided Barna, nor does it say for the church to be wealthy. Jesus did not even have a home and ran a ministry. Paul was a poor minister as well. He was not a failure. If they were here today the definition would be different.
Pastors are not to be blamed here, either. Some of them are trying to survive on a shoe-string budget. People are demanding better worship, entertaining sermons, and teachings that are very non-confrontational. Messages on sin are not popular, and so leaders have scaled back. Weve become focused on greed and made man a focus, not God. Another reason organized religion is more divisive is it does not unify. Some believe that no one religion has it 100 percent correct. Some shared that they can pray anywhere, and dont need a domination. Other explained that they will pray to God in their own way, since many of the religious do not live by example. Also formal religion makes many people uneasy.
Church is run too much like a business and we are paying the price. There is nothing wrong with keeping the lights on and wanting to see church growth. The hierarchical nature of religious groups, several people who think religion is too much like a business and others who mention clergy sexual abuse scandals as reasons for their stance, Pew reported. Church has been secularized. You walk in some churches and it feels like youre in the middle of a rock concert. The teachings are more on prosperity and there is no emphasis on commitment or sacrifice. Jonathan Walton, professor of Religion and Society at Harvard Divinity said in an interview with CNN, "When you have pastors thinking of themselves as CEOs, it's hard to tell the difference between a pastor and P-Diddy." He also was concerned how the American evangelical communities are breaking down and Christians have been quick to embrace franchised, mega-church model."
What does the future look like for the church? If young people are not attending, how can the church survive? Culture is changing frantically and church needs to adapt, but in the midst of it all, its important to keep Christ at the center. We can understand the Christian concerns for the church with atmospheric forces of sin waging against us. We are supposed to counter-culture and unhealthy trends. What would Christ do? Honestly we dont know. However, the church is in a state of emergency that needs rescuing and all of us are to blame. We need to admit as believers that we have succumbed to the same snares as the church. We no longer look to God for significance but look at self-aggrandizement. Maybe we need a Moses to come down to slap us with the Word of God as he did with the 10 Commandments. However, there is good news. We can make a change. Jesus talked about the narrow gate in Matthew 7 that leads to life. Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it. The narrow gate is never popular. This is what makes us the salt of the earth and what happens when we as Christians and the church as a whole loses its flavor? Like any other unfinished chapter, we will all find out the ending. As we move into the New Year, lets reflect on our triumphs, but also where we are going as believers.
Corine Gatti-Santillo is a freelance digital journalist, editor, and content producer. She is also the The Christian Post Voices Editor. She is also a former editor at Beliefnet.com.
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Stoicism is a school of Hellenistic philosophy founded in Athens by Zeno of Citium in the early 3rd century BC. This school of thought emphasized rationalism and logic. The Stoic philosophy has long been a secret weapon of historys greatest and wisest leaders from emperors to artists, activists to fighter pilots. People from all walks of life are seeking out Stoicisms unique blend of practicality and wisdom as they look for answers to the great questions of life.
Most people know that philosophy teaches us how to live well and become better humans, but it can also help us overcome lifes trials and tribulations. Some schools of thoughts are for more abstract thinking and debate, whereas others are more practical. The principles within Stoicism provide some of the most relevant and practical sets of wisdom for people looking to discover the art of living. The Stoics focus on two things: How can we lead a fulfilling and happy life and how can we become better human beings? The goal of Stoicism is to attain inner peace by overcoming adversity, practicing self-control, being conscious of our impulses, realizing our ephemeral nature and the short-time allotted. Its crucial that we understand the obstacles we face and not run from them. Our guides to Stoicism today include its three renowned leaders: Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius and Seneca. Here are six wisdom-filled principles that we can learn from them.
Our emotions come from within.
Today, I escaped anxiety. Or no, I discarded it, because it was within me, in my own perceptions not outside. Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
When it comes to what we feel, it is not the outside forces that make us feel something, it is what we tell ourselves that create our feelings. The realization that anxiety and stress are states within our own perceptions and thoughts give us control over our situation. Instead of just going along for the roller coaster stress ride, you have the power within your control to turn the noise of stress down a bit. There are so many people who have no idea that they are giving anxiety immense power by choosing to believe that they cannot control it and cannot make a difference. But the truth is what we feel is our occurring and we are in control of how we see things.
We have nothing to fear but fear itself.
But there is no reason to live and no limit to our miseries if we let our fears predominate Seneca, Moral Letters
In the early days of what would become known as the Great Depression, Franklin D. Roosevelt was sworn in and gave his first inaugural address. Panic was in the air, banks were failing and people were scared. Most of us have heard the nothing to fear but fear itself soundbite that came from FDRs famous speech, but the full line is worth looking at and applies to the difficult situations we face in life. FDR said, Let me asset my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance. The Stoics were aware that fear was to be feared because of the miseries it creates. The things we fear are nothing in comparison to the damage we do to ourselves and others when we do everything in power to avoid them. Yes, an economic depression is bad but a panic is worse. The tough situations we face in life are not helped by terror. It only makes things harder. Thats why its so important that resist it and reject it if we plan on turning our situations around.
We can't always get what we want.
When children stick their hand down a narrow goody jar they cant get their full fist out and start crying. Drop a few threats and you will get it out! Curb your desire dont set your heart on so many things and you will get what you need. Epictetus, Discourses
The mantra of our modern lives has become We can have it all. Work, family, purpose, success, leisure time are all things we want at the same time. In ancient Greece, the lecture hall was a place where students contemplated the higher things for the purpose of living a better life. It was about prioritization, about questioning the priorities of the outside world. In todays world, we are so busy jamming our hands sown the jar filled with goodies that we dont do this sort of questioning. Instead of focusing our hearts on many things, we can apply Epictetus philosophy. We should focus, prioritize and train our minds to ask: Do I need this thing? What will happen if I dont get it? Can I make do without it? The answers you have to these questions will help you relax and help you remove the needless things that make you too busy to be balanced or happy.
We can benefit greatly from observing.
Nothing has such power to broaden the mind as the ability to investigate systematically and truly all that comes under thy observation in life. Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
There is great power in observation. If you take the time to look at the world as an opportunity, that is exactly what you will see. Instead of looking at the world through a know-it-all lens, observe your surroundings with a beginners mind. When you do this, your entire perspective will change. Harnessing the power of observation can help you determine what to do and not do. When your heads up and the blinders are off, you have a better chance of seeing the path ahead when it comes to your projects and goals. It also enhances your learning. When we observe the environment were in, were able to gain more hand on knowledge to apply to our lives that will help us perform at a higher level.
Not only should we read purposefully, but we should also apply our knowledge.
Dont just say you have read books. Show that through them you have learned to think better, to be a more discriminating and reflective person. Books are the training waits of the mind. They are very helpful, but it would be a bad mistake to suppose that one had made progress simply by having internalized their contents. Epictetus, The Art of Living
Doing a lot of reading on a particular subject will supply a wealthy amount of knowledge that will help you develop a more in-depth awareness, but what really makes this knowledge impactful is when we apply it to our own lives. Reading is a great way to prepare your mind and can even help you avoid poor decision-making, but at the end of it must be the result of some action: a failure, a success or a lesson. The purpose of education is not just to internalize knowledge, but ultimately spark action and facilitate wiser decisions. For example, reading self-help books will make you feel inspired for a change in that moment, but are those same self-help principles guiding you when youre dealing with a rude customer, an internet troll or an episode of road rage? We should be applying our knowledge in ways that we will help us grow.
We can access the wisdom of those who came before us.
We like to say that we dont get to choose our parents, that they were given by chance yet, we can truly choose whose children wed like to be. Seneca, On the Brevity of Life
Some of us are fortunate enough to have parents who were great mentors and role models, but that isnt the case for everyone. Maybe your parents were poor role models, or you lacked a great mentor. However, if we choose to, we can easily access the wisdom of those who came before us those who we aspire to be like. We are blessed to live in a world where some of the greatest men and women in history have recorded their wisdom and folly in books and journals. We owe it not only to ourselves, but also to the people who took the time to record their experiences to try and carry on the traditions and follow their examples.
The way we live our lives and do our work should reflect that principles that we practice. Instead of constantly comparing, criticizing and consuming, focus more on creating, learning and living. The wisdom from the Stoics can help you.
Lesli White is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth with a Bachelors degree in Mass Communications and a concentration in print and online journalism. In college, she took a number of religious studies courses and harnessed her talent for storytelling. White has a rich faith background. Her father, a Lutheran pastor and life coach was a big influence in her faith life, helping her to see the value of sharing the message of Christ with others. She has served in the church from an early age. Some of these roles include assisting ministry, mutual ministry, worship and music ministry and church council.
Abul Kashem Fazlul Haque, whose son, publisher Faisal Arefin Dipan, was hacked to death by Islamic extremists, joins protesters following the attack, Nov. 1, 2015.
A suspect who is in custody in connection with the killings of a secular blogger and a publisher belonged to the intelligence wing of a militant group that monitored Internet activities of its targets, a Bangladeshi police official told BenarNews.
Khairul Islam, a suspected member of Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), told interrogators that its intelligence wing identified bloggers and other intellectuals as potential targets for assassination, by monitoring their online posts and mounting pre-attack surveillance operations against such people, according to the spokesman for Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP).
Islam, who was arrested Friday on suspicion of involvement in the August 2015 killing of secular blogger Niladri Chottopaddhya (known by the pen name Niloy Neel) and the October 2015 killing of publisher Faisal Arefin Dipan who had printed the works of secular writers was a leader of the intelligence wing of ABT, which is also known as Ansar al Islam, the spokesman said.
Islam is the latest among 42 suspected ABT members to be arrested in connection with a slew of deadly machete attacks that have targeted secular writers and intellectuals in Bangladesh in recent years.
Chottopaddhya was one of seven secular writers who were killed in attacks by Islamic militants between February 2013 and April 2016, with most of the killings occurring last year. Dipan was the lone fatality in a pair of attacks launched on two publishing houses in Dhaka on Oct. 31, 2015, that left three other people injured.
Bangladeshi police blame ABT for carrying out attacks against people whom it has accused of defaming the religion of Islam.
According to DMP spokesman Masudur Rahman, the suspect Islam confessed to being involved in the killings of Chottopaddhya and Dipan.
If they find any bloggers write ups to be defamatory to Islam, they preserve it. Then they collect the personal information of the bloggers from Facebook, LinkedIn and other social media. They even monitor the daily activities of the bloggers on social media, Rahman told BenarNews.
Under surveillance
Members of ABTs intelligence wing would forward all objectionable materials to the wings chief for consideration. The chief, whom police did not identify, could then pass the material along to suspected ABT leader Syed Mohammad Ziaul Haque, a renegade ex-army major.
If he [gave his nod], that particular blogger or publisher would come under further close surveillance of the intelligence wing, Rahman said.
The intelligence members would also identify the homes, offices and places frequented by the targeted blogger or publisher.
After repeated confirmation, accurate information is passed on to the Askari (military) wing of the ABT. The military wing assigns a group of members to kill him with machete attacks. After the killing mission is complete, the intelligence wing is tasked with claiming responsibility on Facebook, Twitter and other social media, Rahman added.
A fathers quest for justice
Four ABT members entered Chottopaddhyas apartment on Aug. 7, 2015, and hacked him to death in front of his wife and sister-in-law, according to Anwar Hossain Khan, the officer who prepared an inquest report into the case.
One of the killers, in the guise of a tenant, came to the house of Niloy. Within minutes, they started hacking, and killed him and fled the scene, Khan told BenarNews.
More than a year after his son was killed in the attack on the publishing house, Dipans father is hoping that he will get justice. Apart from Islam, at least two other suspects have been arrested in the publishers murder.
The police officers usually come to brief me about the progress of the case. I think if the police are sincere, the killers of Dipan can be punished, his father, Professor Abul Kashem Fazlul Haque, told BenarNews.
A Malaysian court Monday sentenced an opposition leader to 18 months in jail for leaking part of a classified audit report about scandal-tainted state investment fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).
After finding Mohd Rafizi Ramli of the Peoples Justice Party (PKR) guilty of two charges unauthorized possession of the report and exposing it to the media the Kuala Lumpur Sessions court granted a stay of the sentence, pending an appeal. Judge Zulqarnain Hassan sentenced Rafizi to serve concurrent 18-month sentences for each conviction over the leak.
Rafizi, an MP who serves as the partys vice president and secretary-general, had pleaded not guilty on April 8 following his arrest outside parliament three days earlier. The PKR party was founded by former deputy prime minister and jailed de-facto opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim.
Sad day for Malaysian democracy those who defend the peoples interest and public good are treated in this way, PKR spokesman Fahmi Fadzil wrote on Twitter.
In October, Human Rights Watch (HRW) published a report regarding Rafizis arrest, claiming he was investigating the governments alleged failure to make pension payments to retired veterans. He also challenged the government to confirm that the army funds investments in 1MDB did not affect its ability to make payments.
Rafizi claimed he had received a document from the auditor-generals report that supports his concern that 1MDB owed money to the fund, according to HRW.
Rafizi displayed the document at a news conference on March 28, but did not provide copies to reporters. A week later, police arrested Rafizi and charged him with violating the Official Secrets Act.
The auditor generals report on 1MDB is classified under Malaysias Official Secrets Act.
Abdul Rahman Dahlan, communications director for the ruling Barisan Nasional Coalition, said Rafizi tried a cheap stunt for personal political gain, but he knowingly committed a serious crime in doing so. It is right that he pays the price and he has only himself to blame.
On Monday, New York-based Human Rights Watch called for Rafizis conviction to be overturned.
The conviction of opposition MP Rafizi Ramli under the Official Secrets Act (OSA) is an unprecedented, rights abusing use of this act which can have only one purpose: to intimidate whistle-blowers into silence over the 1MDB corruption scandal, Phil Robertson, HRWs deputy Asia director, said in a statement.
No one should forget that this is all about the Auditor General's annual report, which in years previous has been treated as a public document after its submission to Parliament.
1MDB has been at the heart of a corruption scandal that has plagued Prime Minister Najib Razak since July 2015 when news reports emerged that nearly U.S. $700 million linked to the fund had been deposited into his private bank accounts in 2013. Investigations over claims of money laundering and embezzlement are ongoing in Malaysia and several other countries.
In January, Malaysias attorney general cleared Najib of any wrongdoing despite calls for his resignation. The prime minister has denied wrongdoing or taking any of the 1MDB-linked money for personal gain.
No regrets
Rafizi, 39, said he was not surprised by the verdict, but urged his supporters to remain calm adding he wouldnt have done it in any other way.
Do not despair. I do not have a single regret and the most peaceful thing in life is knowing you did the right thing, he said.
In the court room, Deputy Public Prosecutor Shukor Abu Bakar said laws are to be respected. If an MP like [Rafizi] acted this way, then how do you expect the public to react?
Despite his conviction and sentence, Rafizi would not lose his parliament seat representing the Pandan constituency at this point because has not exhausted his right to appeal, said Gobind Singh Deo, Rafizis attorney.
The federal constitution states that an MP is disqualified if sentenced to jail for a year or more or fined at least 2,000 ringgit (U.S. $460) and has not received a pardon.
Chilling effect
Lawyers for Liberty, a human rights and law reform group, called the sentence harsh and excessive since Rafizi was performing his duties as an elected representative.
The conviction and sentence will create a dangerous chill on free speech and result in a more repressive, opaque and unaccountable government, executive director Eric Paulsen said in a statement.
Paulsen questioned why the report was suddenly classified as an official secret when normally it is presented in parliament and made available to the public.
While the world is moving toward more openness, transparency and accountability in the conduct of government affairs, it is quite deplorable how the authorities were so quick to punish whistle-blowers like Rafizi while taking little or no action against the massive corruption and abuse of power exposed by the 1MDB scandal, he said.
Masukri Jeho, the husband of Citi-ashisoh Lateh, a Thai woman who is being held by immigration officials in Malaysia, talks to BenarNews at his home in Pattani province, Nov. 14, 2016.
Forty-two Thai women who were trafficked into Malaysia are being held at a safe house in the south of the country and will be repatriated, a Malaysian official told BenarNews.
The 42 are staying at a home for women in the state of Johor after being caught entering Malaysia without proper papers, according to the director of the states Department of Immigration.
The Thai women are helping local authorities investigate a ring that allegedly trafficked them into the country, and they are being kept at a safe house run by the Social Welfare Department, Johor Immigration Director Rohaizi Bahari said.
[A]fter all of them have given their statements in assisting the case, they will be sent back to their home country by the immigration authorities, Rohaizi told BenarNews on Monday. He declined to give more details.
The Thai ambassador to Malaysia confirmed that 42 Thai women were being held at a center for women in Johor, but he only had more specific information about half of them.
Twenty-one of the 42 had left Thailand in late September and are from Pattani and Yala, two provinces in Thailands insurgency-stricken Deep South. The families of this batch of 21 had reported them missing after they had left for Malaysia, where they were promised jobs as snack vendors by immigration brokers, according to relatives.
Thai consular staff, on behalf of the Thai government, will be granted permission to meet them in the womens home in Johor Bahru on Tuesday, Nov. 15. We will try to seek Malaysias speediest proceeding and hope they come back to Thailand soon, Damrong Kraikruan, the Thai ambassador to Malaysia, told BenarNews, referring the capital of the Malaysian state of Johor that borders Singapore.
According to a Malaysian police officer, this group is assisting local authorities investigate a case against two Thai nationals who have been arrested on suspicion of human trafficking.
Now, two Thai trafficking brokers are being held on human trafficking charges. For the 21 women, officials will release them home soon after interrogation, the officer told BenarNews on condition of anonymity, adding that the women would not face any charges.
Worried relatives
The son of one of the women who went to Malaysia said brokers had promised her a job as a snack vendor in Johor, and that she and 20 other women had crossed into Malaysia from the southern Thai province of Songkhla.
There were all together 21 women travelling in two pickup trucks. They were unable to be reached, and I thought Malaysian police had arrested them because they did not have work permits, Mamagadi Sulong, the son of 57-year-old Yala resident Hamida Salae, told BenarNews.
In nearby Pattani province, the husband of another woman said their five children have been crying since she left for Malaysia.
My wife intended to earn money for our kids education. There are not many jobs in Thailand and when [brokers] asked her to go to Malaysia, so she went, Musukri Jeho, the husband of Citi-ashisoh Lateh, told BenarNews.
When relatives of the 21 learned that their loved ones were unaccounted for in Malaysia, the brokers in Thailand asked each of them to each pay 20,000 baht (U.S. $564) as a fee to find the women, he said.
Hata Wahari in Kuala Lumpur contributed to this report.
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By Bob Cunningham
The fourth annual Falcon BEST robotics competition this fall at Bowling Green State Universitys Stroh Center had it all.
There were teams from middle schools and high schools from all over northwest Ohio, and even one from Indiana, competing in the event.
The Lathrop Co. has been a sponsor of the Falcon BEST robotics competition since its inception.It featured a sportslike atmosphere with teams friends, family members and interested onlookers cheering from the stands. There also were pep bands, mascots, flags and signs of encouragement, generating an atmosphere fitting for the achievements of aspiring scientists.
Yes, its fun to cheer for science. Just ask First Solar and The Lathrop Co., sponsors of the popular event. Each company has made a $25,000 pledge and a five-year commitment to the competition.
The pushing of STEM initiatives at local high schools, local colleges and at events like this has been a mission for us over the last couple of years, said Jay Lake, director of workforce development and community relations at First Solar, which sponsored its first competition this fall. We are a high-technology company, and robotics and various computers and computer systems drive how we make our product. We have a ton of fantastic, STEM-oriented career individuals here at First Solar.
First Solar, an alternative energy company in Perrysburg, Ohio, has been involved in area high school STEM programs, so Lake said the company saw the sponsorship opportunity at BGSU as a natural progression.
We do a lot of work with BGSU and have a great relationship with the University, and, more importantly and specific to our industry, the students who attend the school, said Steven Johnson, president of Lathrop. We just thought it was a great opportunity to engage in helping some young people get interested in science and technology, many who decide to go into construction or other related fields in the area. We thought it was a win-win to engage with students as well as engage with the University. My focus as the president is young people and their careers.
Lathrop, located in Maumee, Ohio, has been involved with the Falcon BEST (Boosting Engineering, Science and Technology) robotics competition since the start, donating safety goggles, vests, hard hats, and the like. The companys five-year financial commitment started in 2015.
The theme of this years competition was Bet the Farm. Teams were required to develop robots that could be used to assist with agriculture and scored points having their robots complete tasks in three-minute matches as efficiently as possible
Supplies for the competition were provided by the College of Technology, Architecture, and Applied Engineering, a co-host of the event along with the Northwest Ohio Center for Excellence in STEM Education.
First Solar wants to be involved in the community, Lake said.
We had heard a lot about the competition, he said. And thats another reason we partnered with BGSU, because the University is in our backyard. To be a company thats involved in the community and being somebody that wants to make sure the community is involved with us, you have to start in your backyard and thats Bowling Green.
Johnson is happy to see the competition is growing every year.
Its gotten a lot of attention and again we look at our partnership with the University: Theres things we can do to help bring excitement to the University and draw students, he said. The better students they have, the better workforce I have so were always looking for opportunities to help the University attract the best talent in the area.
By Matt Markey
When it was time for Max Williamson to go off to college, there was no doubt about where he would be going. A well-worn path to a great education had been laid out for him, as the last in a family of 12 children.
A parade of his siblings had attended Bowling Green State University and they showed the way, while a generous aunt with a lifetime investment in higher education made certain that Max and his brothers and sisters had a home away from home during their time at the campus.
My dad died when I was still pretty young, so one of my older brothers stayed home and worked the farm, but for the rest of us the other 11 we all ended up at Bowling Green, Williamson said. We found it to be a good place to go to school, and my aunt certainly played a big role in that. She didnt have any children of her own, but she did a lot to make sure we got the chance to get a nice education there.
Williamson, 77, attended BGSU from 1955-59, graduating with a degree in general business. He is retired now after a long career in the insurance industry, and splits his time between a home in Columbus and a winter residence in Florida, but he maintains a strong association with the University.
In fall 2016, Williamson began a four-year term as chair of the BGSU Foundation, Inc. having previously served two terms on the foundation board, and as president of the alumni board in the 1980s.
Theres no question that I have a special affinity for the place, he said. Just with the family connection weve had, there is a very strong tie there. Bowling Green was obviously a big influence in our lives.
The family link started with his aunt, Dr. Florence Williamson, who was one of the first women to earn a Ph.D. in education from Ohio State. When she began teaching here in the 1920s, it was still called Bowling Green State Normal School.
The woman the Williamson children called Aunt Flo taught graduate and undergraduate classes at Bowling Green, served as adviser to the Delta Gamma sorority chapter and was a breast cancer survivor, and an iconic figure on campus for decades.
She was a very strong, very stately lady, and she always stacked her hair on top of her head and that made her look really tall, like she was six-foot-six, Max recalled. We lovingly called her Aunt Flo, and when the other students heard that, they picked up on it right away.
Aunt Flo had a house very close to campus, so beginning with Larry, the eldest of the Williamson siblings, she offered free room and board to any of her nephews and nieces who wanted to leave the family farm near Cedarville, in southwestern Ohio, and go to college.
You had your own room, and she would make meals in the evenings and on the weekends, Max said. She was just very generous, and very welcoming. The house was never locked, and we could come and go as we pleased. Looking back, it was a pretty good deal.
So after Larry, John followed, and then Frances, the oldest sister they called Frankie. Then came Myron, Nancy, Donald, Janet and Mildred. Bob was next in line, but he stayed home to tend to the farm. Kent resumed the steady stream of Williamsons headed to Bowling Green, and was followed by Walker, and then Max.
Not all of the siblings stayed long enough to graduate, but many did. Nancy was the most persistent of the bunch, returning after 20 years to earn her degree, and then become a home economics teacher in Sylvania.
In our family, it was almost a given that you were going to go to college, and you were going to go to Bowling Green, Max said.
Everybody did it before me, so I did it, too.
Max recalled a conversation he had with his mother late in the summer that followed his senior year of high school.
She asked me what I was going to do, and told me that I had better talk to Aunt Flo about college, he said. My aunt said that she would be leaving for Bowling Green in the first week of September, and that I could ride along. So my brother Walker, who was already going to school there, and I rode with her to BG.
Max walked in to the admissions office on campus, signed up, and paid his $112 semester fee with money he had saved from his part-time job at a grocery store.
At that time, there was no application, and no test scores. I probably couldnt get in there now, he said.
Once he arrived in Bowling Green, Max went to work at the student union, and held down jobs throughout his time in college. He said Aunt Flo never pressed any of her houseguests about their schoolwork.
She was a very highly educated woman, but she never put pressure on us, he said. She was never demanding, and she never asked us about our grades. She always told us, Dont let your studies interfere with your education. She was very kind, very willing, and she provided us with a comfortable environment, and did it out of the goodness of her heart.
Before Max started his senior year, Aunt Flo retired from teaching, sold the house in Bowling Green, and moved back to Cedarville.
All of a sudden, I had to make other housing arrangements, Max joked.
Many years later, when Max returned to BGSU for a homecoming weekend, he found a flyer for a local pizza place on his windshield as he left the parking lot at Doyt Perry Stadium. He discarded the brochure and drove his wife toward the center of town so he could show her where he and his siblings had lived with his aunt while they were in school.
As we crossed the tracks on Court Street, I saw that Aunt Flos house was gone, and right where it used to sit was the pizza place.
Yes, Bowling Green had changed a great deal in the years since Max first arrived. But that bond first forged with the Williamson family more than 60 years ago remained strong.
I always felt like it was a great place, but then I had a grand-niece from Chicago who started at the University of Illinois, but transferred to BG to get a degree she could not get at Illinois, Max said. That meant a lot to me, and it kind of reinforced that feeling that this place was something special.
With much smaller families the norm today, Max agrees that the Williamson legacy at Bowling Green will be a tough one to match. Four of the siblings are still living, and when they manage to get together, the subject of Aunt Flo and the deeply rooted BG connection is bound to come up.
When you grow up in a big family like that, you dont know the difference, but I certainly wouldnt want it any other way, he said.
My brothers and sisters blazed that trail for me, and since then there have been nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand nephews, and even more extended family beyond that, and a lot of them have gone to Bowling Green. Its a good place where you can definitely get a good education, and weve sent a few people there, thats for sure.
For Immediate Release, November 14, 2016 Contact: Diana Dascalu-Joffe, Center for Biological Diversity, (720) 925-2521, ddascalujoffe@biologicaldiversity.org Legal Protest Filed Against Fossil Fuel Auction of Public Lands in Colorado BLM Failed to Weigh Climate Impact, Raised Risk for Imperiled Fish, Plants LAKEWOOD, Colo. Conservation groups filed a formal administrative protest today challenging a Bureau of Land Management plan to auction off more than 20,000 acres of publicly owned fossil fuels in Colorado. The protest cited concerns over air and water pollution, fracking and potential harm to imperiled species including threatened Colorado River fish such as the Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker and plant species such as the parachute beardtongue and the BLMs failure to consider the auctions impact on climate change. This lease sale carries the potential to produce more than 3.1 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions. Its irresponsible for the BLM to issue new fossil fuel leases on public lands without considering the impact that extracting and burning these new sources of dirty energy will have on the climate, said Diana Dascalu-Joffe, a senior attorney with the Center for Biological Diversity. Given the recent election result, the Obama administration should move immediately to halt new leasing on public lands to preserve his climate legacy. The protest called on the Bureau to halt new leasing of fossil fuels in the proposed area, asks that the agencys Dec. 8 auction be halted due to its failure to consider impacts of fossil fuel extraction on rivers and streams that feed the Colorado River. The Bureau also failed to consider the lifecycle impact that opening these new leases to development will have on climate change. Recent studies have shown that there is already more oil, gas and coal in production to takes us beyond 2 degrees Celsius of warming. Groups protesting the lease auction included the Center for Biological Diversity and Sierra Club. Background
The American public owns nearly 650 million acres of federal public land and more than 1.7 billion acres of Outer Continental Shelf and the fossil fuels beneath them. This includes federal public land, which makes up about a third of the U.S. land area, and oceans like Alaskas Chukchi Sea, the Gulf of Mexico and the Eastern Seaboard. These places and the fossil fuels beneath them are held in trust for the public by the federal government; federal fossil fuel leasing is administered by the Department of the Interior.
Over the past decade, the combustion of federal fossil fuels has resulted in nearly a quarter of all U.S. energy-related emissions. A 2015 report by EcoShift Consulting, commissioned by the Center for Biological Diversity and Friends of the Earth, found that remaining federal oil, gas, coal, oil shale and tar sands that have not been leased to industry contain up to 450 billion tons of potential greenhouse gas pollution. As of earlier this year, 67 million acres of federal fossil fuel were already leased to industry, an area more than 55 times larger than Grand Canyon National Park containing up to 43 billion tons of potential greenhouse gas pollution. Last year Sens. Merkley (D-Ore.), Sanders (I-Vt.) and others introduced the Keep It in the Ground Act (Senate Bill 2238) legislation to end new federal fossil fuel leases and cancel non-producing federal fossil fuel leases. Days later President Obama canceled the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline, saying, Because ultimately, if were going to prevent large parts of this Earth from becoming not only inhospitable but uninhabitable in our lifetimes, were going to have to keep some fossil fuels in the ground rather than burn them and release more dangerous pollution into the sky. Download the September Keep It in the Ground letter to President Obama. Download Grounded: The Presidents Power to Fight Climate Change, Protect Public Lands by Keeping Publicly Owned Fossil Fuels in the Ground (this report details the legal authorities with which a president can halt new federal fossil fuel leases). Download The Potential Greenhouse Gas Emissions of U.S. Federal Fossil Fuels (this report quantifies the volume and potential greenhouse gas emissions of remaining federal fossil fuels) and The Potential Greenhouse Gas Emissions fact sheet. Download Over-leased: How Production Horizons of Already Leased Federal Fossil Fuels Outlast Global Carbon Budgets. Download Public Lands, Private Profits, a report about the corporations that are profiting from climate-destroying fossil fuel extraction on public lands. Download the Center for Biological Diversitys formal petition calling on the Obama administration to halt all new offshore fossil fuel leasing. Download the Center for Biological Diversitys legal petition with 264 other groups calling for a halt to all new onshore fossil fuel leasing. The Center for Biological Diversity is a national, nonprofit conservation organization with more than 1.1 million members and online activists dedicated to the protection of endangered species and wild places.
For Immediate Release, November 14, 2016 Contacts: Amaroq Weiss, Center for Biological Diversity, (707) 779-9613, aweiss@biologicaldiversity.org
Brooks Fahy, Predator Defense, (541) 520-6003, brooks@predatordefense.org
Nick Cady, Cascadia Wildlands, (314) 482-3746, nick@cascwild.org
Wally Sykes, Northeast Oregon Ecosystems, (541) 263-2125, wally_sykes2000@yahoo.com
Scott Beckstead, Humane Society of the United States, (541) 530-8509, sbeckstead@humanesociety.org Federal Agencies Urged to Halt Coyote-hunting Contest in Oregon's Lake County Contest Risks Killing Endangered Wolves, Breaking Wildlife Laws PORTLAND, Ore. Six wildlife conservation organizations representing nearly 212,000 Oregonians are calling on the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to stop a coyote-hunting contest planned for Nov. 19-20. The groups are concerned that in addition to being cruel and wasteful, the Lake County Coyote Calling Derby could result in killing of endangered gray wolves, in violation of the Endangered Species Act. This contest is unethical, cruel and risks violating federal law, said Amaroq Weiss, West Coast wolf organizer with the Center for Biological Diversity. Wolves are fully federally protected throughout the entirety of Lake County, so federal wildlife- and land-management officials have a duty to do everything in their power to protect them. The hunting contest, which awards prizes for the most coyotes killed, is being sponsored by the Lake County chapter of the Oregon Hunters Association and by Robinson Heating and Cooling. The contest will take place on both Forest Service and BLM land, which cover large portions of Lake County. Despite this the contest organizers have not sought a required special use permit. Such a permit would trigger a review by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service because of the risk of killing federally protected wolves, which have been confirmed in Lake County by federal and state officials and are easily mistaken for coyotes. Coyote killing contests are nothing more than the indiscriminate, wanton slaughter of wildlife, said Brooks Fahy, executive director of Eugene-based Predator Defense. Contest organizers often claim that killing coyotes will protect livestock and enhance prey populations like deer and elk. Ironically, science is telling us just the opposite. When coyotes are killed, those that survive reproduce at higher levels. The conservation groups requested that both the Forest Service and BLM suspend the contest until permits are issued, the Fish and Wildlife Service has the opportunity to ensure no wolves will be harmed, and the public has the opportunity to comment. It is completely irresponsible for these federal agencies to allow a killing contest for an animal that closely resembles the endangered gray wolf in this region, said Nick Cady, legal director of Cascadia Wildlands. Wolves are just beginning to establish a foothold in southwestern Oregon, and it would be tragic for that to be lost due to an overlooked coyote killing derby. Killing contests are cruel, wasteful, and deeply at odds with the humane values of the vast majority of Oregonians, said Scott Beckstead, Oregon senior state director of The Humane Society of the United States. The event promotes a shoot anything that moves mentality and is bound to result in the killing of non-target wildlife. We urge the U.S. Forest Service and BLM to deny permission for this event, and we urge the people of Oregon to demand that our state wildlife managers finally put an end to these festivals of cruelty. Not only do these killing contest endanger a protected species, said Wally Sykes, co-founder of Northeast Oregon Ecosystems, but they are a symptom of a general disrespect for wildlife and a poor understanding of the complex relationships of prey and predator. The request was sent by Predator Defense, the Center for Biological Diversity, Cascadia Wildlands, The Humane Society of the United States, Northeast Oregon Ecosystems and Oregon Wild. The Center for Biological Diversity is a national, nonprofit conservation organization with 1.1 million members and online activists dedicated to the protection of endangered species and wild places. http://www.biologicaldiversity.org/ Predator Defense is a national nonprofit advocacy organization with over 15,000 supporters. We have been working since 1990 to protect native predators and end Americas war on wildlife. Our efforts take us into the field, onto Americas public lands, to Congress, and into courtrooms. http://www.predatordefense.org Cascadia Wildlands defends and restores Cascadias wild ecosystems in the forests, in the courts, and in the streets. We envision vast old-growth forests, rivers full of salmon, wolves howling in the backcountry, and vibrant communities sustained by the unique landscapes of the Cascadia bioregion. Join our movement today. The Humane Society of the United States is the nations largest and most effective animal protection organization. We and our affiliates provide hands-on care and services to more than 100,000 animals each year, and we professionalize the field through education and training for local organizations. We are the leading animal advocacy organization, seeking a humane world for people and animals alike. We are driving transformational change in the U.S. and around the world by combating large-scale cruelties such as puppy mills, animal fighting, factory farming, seal slaughter, horse cruelty, captive hunts and the wildlife trade. http://www.humanesociety.org Oregon Wild: Protecting Oregons wildlands, wildlife, and waters for future generations. http://www.oregonwild.org Northeast Oregon Ecosystems works to protect and expand Oregons wildlife and wildlife habitat.
BRUSSELS, Belgium - This year's Africa Finance & Investment Forum (AFIF) will focus on "Entrepreneurship and Innovation for Growth" and will be held for the first time in Nairobi, Kenya, hosted by the Strathmore University, taking place from 15 - 16 February 2017.
Image by 123RF
An expected 300 participants will converge in Nairobi, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, financiers, market specialists, government representatives and policy makers working towards Africas growth and development.
In line with growing regional and international trends, this year's edition of AFIF will focus on entrepreneurship and innovation and access to finance in key sectors such as energy, water, ICT, health and agriculture.
Participants will be able to experience a 360 event, which includes an exclusive training for entrepreneurs, a dynamic market place, tailor-made B2B meetings (for all participants, speakers and partners using EMRC matchmaking programme) and the EMRC-Rabobank Entrepreneurship Award to celebrate innovation and excellence.
An expected 300 participants will converge in Nairobi, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, financiers, market specialists, government representatives and policy makers working towards Africas growth and development.
At EMRC we believe that SMEs are the key drivers for growth: In developed regions they are responsible for over 50% of GDP and over 60% of employment and economies across Sub Saharan Africa follow a similar model, explains Ines Bastos, senior project manager at EMRC and heading AFIF 2017. To encourage SME growth in Africa, AFIF offers an interactive platform for the entrepreneurs making a difference, for the financiers already investing in Africa, as well as for the larger financial institutions and enterprises interested in accessing this growing market segment.
This belief will be highlighted during the EMRC-Rabobank Entrepreneurship Award, which will showcase innovative projects happening in Africa and offer investors an opportunity to get to know about solid and growing business from across the continent.
To further encourage strong and active business meetings, that will take place during allocated times and also informally, EMRC will organise a pre-conference training on A Road-map for Entrepreneurship Growth (13th -14th February 2017). The training is addressed exclusively to AFIF 2017 participants and will be divided in two linguistic groups (English and French).
The international media will also be present to highlight these projects and to give the opportunity to speakers and partners to gain local, regional and international visibility. The African Press Organisation will be the forums African News Wire, providing extensive coverage and visibility.
The prevalence rate of type 2 diabetes varies between the different racial groups in South Africa. Traditionally it was thought that the Indian population had the highest rate of diabetes, but a study suggests that it is even more common among the coloured population.
The research focused on the Bellville South community in the northern suburbs of Cape Town, and showed that one in four adults in the Western Capes coloured population may be affected by type 2 diabetes.
This population has a very high prevalence of diabetes. Over the age of 40, nearly one in every four individuals (28,2%) either have diabetes, or are at high risk of developing it, says Professor Rajiv Erasmus from the faculty of medicine and health sciences (FMHS) at Stellenbosch University and lead researcher of the study that was published in the South African Medical Journal. This research was a collaborative effort between the FMHS, the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Walter Sisulu University, and the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC).
He emphasises that although the coloured population appear to be worst affected, there has been a rising trend in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes across all South African population groups. For instance, it is estimated that diabetes now affects one in every 10 black South Africans, where in the past, one in every 20 individuals from this group had diabetes.
Another alarming finding in the study was that more than half of the respondents with diabetes were unaware they had the disease.
This is particularly worrying because of the long-term complications of diabetes in which the eyes, heart, skin, blood vessels and kidneys are affected. The presence of diabetes will no doubt exacerbate the already high prevalence of hypertension and chronic kidney disease in our population, hamper economic activity, and stretch the limited health facilities, Erasmus warns.
For the study, researchers assessed 642 randomly selected participants from the Bellville South community for type 2 diabetes and other risk factors of the metabolic syndrome a group of risk factors (such as being overweight, having high blood pressure and/or high LDL cholesterol) that raises the risk for heart disease and other health problems. All respondents were 31 years or older.
In response to the findings of this study, researchers have launched various follow-up studies to uncover the reason for this unusually high prevalence of diabetes in this population, and are assessing the application of user-friendly methods of diagnosis that could simplify the screening process for diabetes. The researchers suggest that a campaign called, Know your diabetic status should be launched to actively screen subjects for diabetes.
Self-service technology has gone a long way during the last decade. With the advent of social media and smartphones, coupled with the widespread availability of fast broadband, companies from all over the world have been taking advantage of low-cost digital alternatives to providing face-to-face support, particularly in customer care, banking and retail.
While self-service technology is certainly something that should be embraced, it's important for corporate entities to retain a 'human' side. Digital solutions are convenient, however, they don't always lead to a satisfactory resolution to problems. Sometimes a simple conversation, or even a means for unhappy customers to vent their frustrations verbally, is necessary.
Explaining the lack of self service in South Africa
South Africans haven't taken to self-service in the same manner as Europeans and Americans, and often choose traditional face-to-face contact as the preferred method of communication. For example: self-service checkouts are yet to make an impact in retail, payment systems through third party internet applications aren't common, and automated ticketing is only available through a small selection of airlines. In fact, most organisations in South Africa are yet to even expand their social media into the customer support sector, believing it to be a significant waste of investment.
On some level, this could be considered a positive move as the cracks are starting to show in countries that have embraced self-service. For example, in the United Kingdom the government portal (HM Revenue & Customs) has recently announced a reshuffle that will see the their already strained customer services department focus on self-service solutions. The popular opinion has been largely negative. Tax is an extremely complex topic, and if trained customer services representatives already struggle to cope with demands, there's no chance the average Joe could sort out tax problems themselves.
The correlation between self-service acceptance and smartphone use
Smartphones and the widespread accessibility of broadband has had a major impact on the way business is conducted. Approximately 89 percent of South Africans own either a smart or regular phone, which is comparable to the United States; however, only 19 percent use them for social networking, particularly those who can speak and read English, as opposed to 59 percent in the United States. Comparable trends can be seen in European and Asian countries. The correlation is undeniable. As social media use in South Africa is growing, perhaps in a few years self-service technology will eventually become more accepted. If statistics are anything to go by, this seems highly likely.
According to Contact Telephone Numbers, UK companies like to insist that you are dealt with via email, online chat and FAQs. This is because dealing with queries by phone increases their expenditure on staffing and profit margins. This general attitude has caused widespread disdain on the British Isles, and now businesses are starting to suffer. But that's not to say that South African businesses will experience a slow decline in their level of customer care with this advent of technology. In fact, they now have greater control of their future than before.
South African businesses have the rare opportunity to establish where the countries who have incorporated such technologies such as the UK are going wrong, and rectify any looming issues before they occur. Fundamentally, the pace with which the country is joining the self-service race, be it through lack of investment from the corporate sector or the reluctance of the general population, could be a major positive in the future!
LONDON - Fashion designer Stella McCartney unveiled her first menswear collection on Thursday at London's famous Abbey Road recording studio, where she promised men a more free and fun wardrobe.
British fashion designer Stella McCartney at the presentation of her menswear launch and womens Spring 2017 collection presentation in London on 10 November. AFP/VNA Photo
McCartney chose to present the collection at the recording studio made famous by her father, Paul McCartney, and his three fellow Beatles when they named one of their albums after Abbey Road.
His fashion designer daughter referred to the 1969 album cover, which shows the band walking across Abbey Road, by parading models over the same white stripes to photographers' flashes.
McCartney said the venue was special both for its musical and family ties.
"It really means a lot to our family this studio... seeing and hearing what's been created here, the best music in the world.
"It's such an iconic place. So many people have recorded here," she said.
Pink Floyd, Radiohead, the Manic Street Preachers and Blur are just some of the other bands to have recorded at Abbey Road in recent years.
Trained at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, McCartney has built a reputation as a designer but has only just decided to enter the world of menswear.
The collection shown at Abbey Road ranged from playful casual wear, such as blue pinstripe pyjama-like shirts and bright yellow socks, to more formal tailoring including a black suit and camel overcoat.
"The challenge has been just to look at how men dress but also not over thinking it," said McCartney.
"We want them to be a bit freer and having more fun with their wardrobe and also have timeless beautiful pieces at the same time."
The launch was attended by British creatives such as actress Anna Friel and rapper M.I.A, as well as models Kate Moss and Twiggy. Music performances included Run-DMC, who played the well-known track "Walk this way".
McCartney's womenswear collection for spring 2017 was also unveiled at the event.
With the festive season looming, large retailers need to differentiate themselves from the competition and look into interactive communication solutions to engage their customers.
Rean van Niekerk, founder of Metacom
Customer loyalty today can be easily defined as a moving target. Shopper sentiment shifts in the wind; blowing from one retailer to another as each store uses the technology and tools they have at their disposal to catch the consumers mercurial eye.
Research by Effective Measure has found that most South African consumers use their smartphones for social networking, searching for information, shopping for products and instant messaging. In fact, the same research revealed that a third of South African consumers shop from their smartphones and 48.6% of users could remember the adverts they see on their smartphone. It is a realm of untapped potential, which the retailer can harness for far more targeted and engaging conversations.
A recent study by research consultancy Rare, found that the next generation of consumer places personalisation high on the scale of importance when it comes to their loyalty to any given brand, and 94% of smartphone users would save personalised mobile wallet offers and coupons. More interestingly, 82% of those prefer digital coupons to their paper counterparts, with the majority saying that being taken to a mobile coupon page rather than an ecommerce page is their preferred route after clicking on an advert.
The way to the customers wallet is no longer just the price tag but increasingly through their digital heart. Content remains king and the retailer is under pressure to make it fun, relevant and, most of all, interesting.
From both retailers and their customers, there is a clear trend towards wanting improved interaction and engagement, says Rean van Niekerk, founder of Metacom, an industrial communications provider offering interactive communication solutions.
There is a growing need for retailers to build communities and relationships, which are designed to last. One of the biggest methods of achieving this is through loyalty programmes and content, which engage customers directly, adding that much needed stickiness to relationships forged in-store.
Driving customer engagement through in-store multimedia
Working closely with companies in the retail sector across Africa, the company has seen that there is a need for solutions designed to support multimedia, audio and services that are tailored to drive customer interaction. These need to extend far beyond the simple pricing board or information display, and into platforms, which can interact with customers.
The retailer has to be able to communicate with customers on various levels. Imagine a world where customers come into the store and a display activates with content, which is geared towards them. It includes advertising, competitions and loyalty rewards, which they will appreciate. They can login to the stores Wi-Fi network on their smartphone, interact with the retailer to enter the competition or gain loyalty points and the relationship grows from there.
Enhancing the digital experience
The company has devised a solution that is more than just a visual digital experience; it includes the audio, the Wi-Fi and the content elements as well. Audio content can be customised to a specific store and what they are trying to sell and who they are trying to sell to. It changes the whole dynamic.
Customers enter the store and visually interact with content, then via the in-store radio, they can hear more information, which guides them to login on Wi-Fi and access special offers or give real-time feedback. It is a proactive customer service loop, which engages with people on every level, and gives them the opportunity to build a relationship with the store.
Business value
What we are developing is a fully integrated platform, which incorporates each of these elements under one banner. Retailers do not need to work with multiple service providers in order to implement audio, digital, Wi-Fi and more; they can just access one fully integrated solution, which delivers content in the way that they prefer.
The platform is designed with retailers specific needs in mind, allowing for enhanced service delivery and customer communication across numerous channels. The goal is to ensure that every store can engage with its customers on a richer level than ever before and the company plans to add in new services and features continually, as retailers require them. Currently under development, the new tool will be customisable and customer focused and will support retailers in becoming more engaging and interactive than before.
Most retailers are struggling to understand how to deliver Wi-Fi, how to create interaction with their customers and build these relationships. Our strategy is to help them overcome these challenges and do just that proactively grow relationships and their business, concludes Van Niekerk.
SAN FRANCISCO: Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg on Thursday rejected the idea that bogus stories shared at the social network paved a path of victory for President-elect Donald Trump.
"The idea that fake news on Facebook, which is a very small amount of the content, influenced the election in any way I think is a pretty crazy idea," Zuckerberg said during an on-stage chat at a Technonomy technology trends conference in California.
The Facebook co-founder rhetorically asked why people would think there would be hoax stories about one candidate but not the other. He also dismissed worries about Facebook users existing in "bubbles" where they only see news or perspectives echoing their viewpoints.
"Voters make decisions based on their lived experience," Zuckerberg said. "You don't generally go wrong when you trust that people understand what they care about and what's important to them and you build systems that reflect that."
Masoud Rezaeipoor via 123RF
He added that research gathered at Facebook suggests news-filter bubbles are not a problem. The social network found that while people may have a lot of friends very much like themselves, almost everyone at Facebook has someone in their mix who breaks the mold in some way, such as religion, ethnicity, or background.
However, Zuckerberg added, Facebook has also found that people are less inclined to click on links or otherwise check out shared stories that don't line up with their views.
"We just tune out," Zuckerberg said of the pattern. "I don't know what to do about that."
While acknowledging the importance of the election, he advised maintaining faith that most progress in innovation is made by private citizens, typically without help from the government.
"These elections make a real difference in the world, but it would not be right to suggest that it changes the fundamental arc of technology or progress over time," Zuckerberg said.
The News Feed at Facebook has evolved from early days of being about sharing personal tidbits with friends or family to becoming a platform for important news.
Facebook continues to adapt to that shift, modifying the way it ranks stories as well as the community guidelines regarding what might be offensive, according to Zuckerberg.
He conceded there was a lot that could be improved and that the process was ongoing, but contended it was misguided to put blame on Facebook.
"I do think there is a certain profound lack of empathy in asserting that the only reason someone could have voted the way they did is because they saw some fake news," Zuckerberg said.
"If you believe that, then I don't think you have internalized the message that Trump supporters are trying to send in this election."
Source: AFP
Nigeria won't be revoking the privatisation of the country's energy sector, the minister of power, works and housing, Raji Fashola, says.
"The Federal Government will respect and uphold the contract it has been committed to and inherited from the past administration.
According to him, the government has nothing to gain from sending investors in the power sector packing, following calls from some quarters asking for revocation of privatisation of the sector.
"If those calling for revisiting of the privatisation of the power sector meant to say improving the governance, performance and efficiency, then, I am here for that.
If revisiting it will mean that distribution companies (DISCOs) should open up and investments should come in, I am for that. If it means that the entire power sector will become very efficient, I will support it. But, I will not support cancelling of the contracts we had with them.
"If we revoke privatisation of the sector, investors will carry their bags and go, they will tell others that Nigeria is not reliable for investment," Fashola says.
The minister, however, urged the EU-business delegates to invest in the power sector, saying that no economy would grow without investment in infrastructure.
Fashola was speaking at the 5th European Union (EU)-Nigeria Business Forum, themed: Harnessing Nigeria's Potential for Economic Growth in Lagos.
Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of the Gift of the Givers Foundation, has been awarded the Global Citizen Award by the international advisory firm Henley & Partners.
Dr Sooliman was recognised for his efforts in developing the Gift of the Givers Foundation into one of Africas largest disaster relief organisations, raising more than $150m in life-saving aid for 42 countries around the world including war-ravaged states such as Syria, Libya, Sudan, Somalia, and Bosnia. His team of 200 provide medical assistance, equipment and supplies, as well as high energy and protein supplements, food and water to millions of people each year. During the aftermath of the 2010 Haiti earthquake, the organisation sent four rescue teams and aid materials to the country. At one point in 2011, they were the only international aid group providing food parcels to Somalia, airlifting 180 tons and shipping 2000 tons of aid.
Dr Imtiaz Sooliman (right) with Dr Christian H. Kalin (right)
Innovation and inventions
Even more remarkable is the organisations cutting edge innovation and invention. The Gift of the Givers designed and developed the worlds first and only containerised hospital comprising 28 units, as well as a groundnut-soya high energy and protein supplement which is used in the treatment of severe malnutrition, HIV/AIDS, TB, cancer and other life-threatening and debilitating conditions. The foundation also established an open source computer lab. In Syria, which is the main focus of the foundations relief efforts at the moment, they have erected two hospitals and are running a program to upgrade and transfer their skills to doctors, nurses and other medical personnel.
Dr Christian H. Kalin, group chairman of Henley & Partners, says the Global Citizen Award is given each year to an inspirational individual who has made an extraordinary contribution towards improving the global community. Dr Sooliman is an exceptionally worthy recipient of the award as his work is not only visionary but also innovative in many ways. He has demonstrated extraordinary courage and commitment, and the work of his foundation has had a significant impact on the lives of the most vulnerable in our global community. I believe these are the most important reasons why our Award Committee has given this years award to Dr Sooliman.
Global stamp of approval
The Global Citizen Award consists of a specially made commemorative medal, an award certificate signed by the chairman of the independent Award Committee and a $50,000 monetary prize, of which $25,000 is donated to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and $25,000 is given to a charity of the recipients choice.
Upon receiving the award, Dr Sooliman thanked Henley & Partners, saying the accolade was an important acknowledgement of the significant work being done by African non-governmental organisations (NGOs) internationally. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the continent and all that we can do. Being honoured with a prestigious award like this means we have the global stamp of approval which helps build faith and confidence in others to support African NGOs and our work in the future, he said.
Eastern Free-State commercial farming enterprise, Sandstone Estates , received the 2016 Business of the Year Gold Winner Award for Tourism at the annual ROCCI/FNB Business Awards. The Roodepoort Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ROCCI) and First National Bank seek to identify and acknowledge businesses which have achieved success and embody the spirit of enterprise country wide.
Sandstone Estates
We are honoured and immensely proud of this award. It serves as further inspiration for our committed team to not only continue creating jobs and business success going forward but to preserve the best of our past for the future, says Mike Myers, director of the established farming estate, who represented Sandstone Estates at the awards ceremony.
The Sandstone directors first got wind of their nomination for the coveted award in early September this year during a meeting with their banker, FNB, when Mohammed Cassim, segment head of FNB informed them that FNB had put Sandstones name forward as a nominee. Sandstone was subsequently invited to deliver a presentation on 26 September 2016 to a panel of judges, including representatives from FNB, SAICA (South African Institute of Chartered Accountants, the Chief Adjudicator), Business Partners and BEBEs Events Ellen Oosthuizen.
Ninety-seven companies were nominated in 20 categories which included: Large Corporations and Listed Companies, Medium Size Businesses, SMEs, Most Promising Young Entrepreneur, and Tourism.
Mike Myers (centre), receives The Gold Winner Award for Tourism from Michelle Geraghty, FNB Regional Head, Gauteng South West (left) and Marietjie Esterhuizen, ROCCI President, (right).
This prestigious award comes at a time during which the Sandstone team is preparing for its major tourism event taking place from 30 March to 9 April 2017, The Stars of Sandstone Steam and Heritage Festival, which was launched in 1999.
Sandstone is a popular international movie location and also draws attention as a popular events and team-building destination. It has the largest collection of 2ft narrow gauge locomotives with 30 working locomotives, the largest such collection in the world, and is supported by over 250 different types of rolling stock, from passenger trains to varied freight trains. Picture vistas of the majestic Maluti Mountains, cosmos flowers as far as the eye can see, and 30km of private railway track.
Every resource available on this fertile, beautiful land, from ever-expanding cattle herds to harvesting cosmos, soya, wheat, maize, and sunflowers, is utilised at Sandstone. The teams of Afrikaner trek oxen which are bred and trained on the farm are complemented by a large cross section of working ox wagons, some of which date back nearly two centuries.
Heavy rainfalls and flash floods caused extensive damage to vehicles and property in the vicinity of Linksfield and the Gilloolys interchange of Johannesburg on 9 November, with insurers declaring it a national catastrophe...
Some insurers has set up facilities at salvage yards for vehicles that were submerged to be immediately assessed. Huge property losses have also been incurred, especially in the vicinity of the Jukskei River which burst its banks. While its still too early to quantify the extent of the damage, expectations are that these will be significant and that claims handling will be kicked into high gear to deal with the influx, says Mandy Barrett, manager of personal lines marketing & sales at Aon South Africa.
Source: Njabulo Cele ?@njabuloc via Twitter
While severe weather is not an uncommon occurrence in South Africa, what makes the events in Gauteng particularly noteworthy is the net retained exposure that the province represents. Gautengs built-up area constitutes only 0,5% of SAs land surface area, but due to the fact that the area is so densely populated, Gauteng constitutes 35% of the exposure to catastrophic events such as hail storms and flash floods.
According to Aon South Africa, risk advisors and insurance brokerage, in the last four years, weather-related damage has cost the insurance industry a staggering R2,5bn in losses. As at lunchtime on 10 Nov over 150 claims had already been lodged in Aons call centre alone, and continue to pour in.
Travellers are starting to get ready for their festive season trip. It is vital for these travellers to have travel insurance, whether they are flying overseas or driving across the South African border, to ensure they are covered and have assistance services in place in case of an emergency.
Marcia Le Roux
This is according to Marcia Le Roux, head of medical and Travel at Europ Assistance South Africa, who says that when travelling overseas, many people purchase travel insurance through their credit provider, bank or insurance provider. However, most people do not realise that they resultantly have assistance services in place as an added benefit of this insurance, which means that travel and medical assistance can be rendered to the traveller should they be caught in a difficult situation.
A grudge purchase until an emergency occurs
Many people may regard travel insurance as a grudge purchase, but when an unexpected emergency occurs, such as lost baggage, cancellation, and rerouting of flights or even a repatriation, assistance services will prove to be extremely helpful, she says.
When a traveller experiences any type of travel emergency, assistance services will be able to facilitate and ensure a smooth process of alleviating the problem as well as provide information and advice to the traveller. This way the traveller has peace of mind that their issues will be dealt with by a professional and they do not have the burden of making new arrangements in a foreign country where they do not know the language, systems, and regulations, explains Le Roux.
As an example, she says that should an individual lose their passport and be unable to board a flight home the assistance service provider will make the necessary phone calls, send the appropriate documentation, deal with passport control and direct the traveller to the right embassy. The assistance provider will essentially deal with the logistical issues to ensure that the traveller does not have to stress about the situation.
Andrey Armyagov via 123RF
Travelling for business?
When it comes to employees travelling for business purposes, they travel to a specific country to fulfill business duties, says Le Roux. Businesses are advised to make sure that they have travel assistance services in place for their travelling employees to allow the person to continue attending to their business obligations should an emergency occur. The employee can uninterruptedly proceed with their business trip while being assured that a professional is dealing with their emergency to facilitate the arrangements on their behalf.
Most insurance providers do offer these assistance services as part of their travel insurance, she says. The travellers responsibility is to contact the provider to ascertain to what extent they have assistance services at their disposal. This exercise should form part of the travellers planning ahead of their trip the same as they would ensure that their passport is in order, they need to understand how their travel insurance works, what it covers and what the assistance services offer.
Travellers are advised to obtain the number of the service provider in order to get the relevant contact numbers on speed dial to ensure that any emergency can be dealt with quickly. A small issue can easily become traumatic if the traveller is not fully prepared for it, concludes Le Roux.
Digital transformation is a powerful revolution that needs to happen in order to accelerate business activities, skills and models, enabling companies to fully leverage the changes and opportunities brought by new digital technologies in a strategic and prioritised manner.
Leo Lintang via 123RF
Driven by changing customer needs, those businesses that ride the wave and embrace digital change will survive and even gain a competitive edge, while those that do not digitilise will become irrelevant and possibly extinct. Because digital transformation is not as simple as moving business applications to the cloud, there is a need for business leadership to get involved in the transformation process from the beginning. A journey with multiple connected transitional goals, digitilisation is undertaken with the aim of continuous optimisation across processes and departments to create a business environment in which employees and decision-makers alike are empowered with the correct tools to fulfil their business function.
End-to-end change is required
Through the digital transformation process, an organisation must move from the traditional, manual way to a digitilised environment. This means customer interactions must also be digitilised and requires a change in business model as well all driven by the digital strategy.
As the main objective is to become more internally productive in terms of customer interaction and service delivery, it is critical that the task is not carried out in an isolated manner. Digital strategy, we believe, is 50% technology and 50% leadership. Thus an organisation cannot decide to, for example, transform its sales interaction team in isolation, without applying a similar approach to the other applications of the business, like end-supply chain, end-delivery and marketing.
The companys leadership team needs to be involved and must provide guidance based on the understanding that the way business happens today will change tomorrow it is this understanding that must drive the digital strategy. The company leadership needs to acknowledge the importance of digitilising customer interactions and customer data to ensure that the business can move closer to the customer in order to respond faster. This is only possible if the digital strategy is deployed simultaneously across all business-critical applications, from end to end.
Change with a view for optimisation
Digitilisation means, at a basic level, looking at all business documentation and interactions with a view to capture them digitally. Once that is done, its necessary to define processes to define what the business will be doing with that data in order to optimise operations. Once these processes have been established, the next logical step is to examine how a customer interaction would take place, and what changes are necessary here given that digital transformation is now underway.
Because the process is more than simply moving business applications to the cloud, its necessary to critically examine business interactions, both internally and externally. The company needs to look at how they interact with their customers and suppliers, and consider how to use the information on both in such a way that they can give better service to their customers, or get better service from their suppliers.
On the internal side, once businesses understand that customer needs are no longer the same it becomes possible to find new ways to deliver their services faster, through digitilisation. It becomes possible, for example, for a financial institution to launch a new product and roll out an improved product within 48 hours, based on customer feedback through digital channels simply by placing analytical software to gather negative and positive sentiment from customer-facing social media platforms. By properly defining internal business processes, data in the form of customer feedback can be used by the company to ensure that the customer needs are met and fulfilled in a way that was not possible in a pre-digital world.
Change can be challenging
As humans, we have a tendency to resist change, but the digital transformation cannot be refused. Given that its a change driven by shifting customer behaviour and demands, if it does not happen, it will be the end of the company in time to come and convincing business leadership of this reality is the biggest challenge in implementing digital transformation. The second challenge lies constructing analytical engines that render enormous amounts of data produced in digital interactions into meaningful output that can be used by business leaders to make informed decisions and made available across multiple customer touchpoints to customer service representatives.
This is only possible if the digital transformation has been undertaken across operational environments as well, which ensures that if a customer reaches out (regardless of platform) with queries or concerns, the matter can be addressed on the channel of the customers choosing. Once the internal business processes have been optimised, innovation becomes possible and given that a companys competitive edge depends on its ability to innovate and respond to customers, it becomes undeniably clear that digital transformation is not a journey that can be avoided.
Treasury is seeking professional advice on whether and how to restructure the state's airlines as well as the possible disposal of their noncore assets, Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan said.
NJR ZA via Wikimedia Commons
The possibility of merging South African Airways (SAA), South African Express and Mango or integrating them under a single holding company has been on the government's agenda for some time as a means of achieving synergies and economies of scale.
Another option to be investigated by Treasury is the separate corporatisation of the airlines' international, regional or domestic routes.
Appointment of advisers under way
Gordhan said the process of appointing advisers was under way, but budgeting issues had to be resolved first. In a written reply to a parliamentary question by DA deputy finance spokesman Alf Lees, Gordhan outlined the terms of reference for the advisers who will be tasked with developing a group structure to realign the airline assets. These assets include a 3% stake in Airlink.
The advisers will assess the following: what to do with the state's Airlink stake, and whether this should be increased or decreased; whether to establish a holding company; the corporatisation of Voyager and Cargo; the incorporation of SAA, South African Express and Mango into an integrated airline group with or without Airlink; the integration of the technical divisions of SAA, South African Express and Denel; the identification of noncore assets for disposal; the creation of a shared services division; the establishment of a separate aircraft leasing firm; separately corporatising the international, regional or domestic routes; and investment by strategic equity partners at group or subsidiary level.
Myeni defends her track record
While Gordhan resisted the reappointment of Dudu Myeni as SAA chairwoman, Myeni believes it is in the best interest of the airline and taxpayers that she serves her full term of office, not least because she is championing transformation.
She expressed her views in a letter to the chairman of Parliament's standing committee on finance, Yunus Carrim, in response to a question posed by DA finance spokesman David Maynier during a committee hearing in September. In the letter, she vigorously defended her track record, insisting she has done nothing to harm the airline, blaming past decisions for many of its woes.
"SAA's performance cannot be solely attributed to me," Myeni wrote, pointing to the fact that SAA had never been capitalised and continued to suffer from the bad decisions of the past, including that by former CEO Coleman Andrews to sell and lease back the airline's fleet. The airline had also suffered heavy hedging losses in the past and continued to do so as a result of falling global oil prices and currency movements.
Myeni bemoaned the lack of economic transformation due mainly to those "hanging on to their ill-gotten unearned privilege at the expense of the national imperatives."
"It is a serious concern that we preside over a state-owned company which continues to be dominated by one section of the society against the majority who receive crumbs from the R24bn procurement spend," she wrote.
Myeni hits out at SA pilots
"Further, I have taken a dim view of the exclusive benefits enjoyed by the pilots. None of these glaring issues have received as much as a whimper from some people.
Myeni hit out at the SAA Pilots' Association, which she said was resisting attempts to restructure their contracts, which were a significant drain on SAA's cash flow.
"The pilots are costing the SAA in excess of R600m per year in excessive guaranteed benefits," she said.
Source: Business Day
African Tails, a non profit animal welfare organisation, will be celebrating its 10th anniversary with the release of the 2017 African Tails Calendar at The Barnyard Theatre on Friday 18 November.
All tickets purchased through African Tails have a donation of R30 included in them and the calendars will be available to buy at the Barnyard on the night. The calendars cost R100 and the proceeds go towards ensuring that the work of African Tails continues.
African Tails focuses on the sterilization of animals in township and rural areas. The organisation not only aims to uplift communities through these programmes, but also save thousands of animals being born into a life of suffering and neglect. The organisation also offers education programmes, and is involved in the rehabilitation and rehoming of animals. In 2016 thus far, African Tails has been able to sterilize well over 1,200 animals.
To book your tickets call 021 510 5471.
www.africantails.co.za
Transport Minister Dipuo Peters has officially opened Swartkopfontein Bridge, which will make the movement of citizens between South Africa and Botswana easier as well as strengthen economic ties between the two countries.
This whole project of the road and bridge construction cost R78.5m and 51 full time jobs were created over the 23-month contract period, Minister Peters said.
She said the labour was sourced between the two countries, with most of the construction material used coming from Botswana.
Minister Peters was supported by her counterpart in Botswana, Minister of Transport and Communications Onkokame K Mokaila during the official opening of Swartkopfontein Bridge at the Swartkopfontein Border Post in the North West on Monday, 7 November.
The road was upgraded from a gravel to an asphalt surface and includes the construction of the 80-metre long Notwane River Bridge.
The construction of the road and bridge to link the border posts of Swartkopfontein comes after a memorandum of agreement was signed in July 2014, in which the governments of the two countries agreed to promote cross-border trade, economic activity and regional integration.
Part of the agreement included a practical initiative to upgrade roads, bridges and other physical infrastructure.
The Swartkopfontein entry point is located between the commercial border posts of Kopfontein and Skilpadshek and now offers a convenient alternative for commuters who make the journey.
I have no doubt that it will relieve the pressure on traffic between Zeerust in South Africa and the towns of Gaborone, Lobatse and Ramotswa in Botswana. This will lead to a safer travel experience for commuters within the region, Minister Peters said.
Swartkopfontein Bridge was constructed by the agency of the Department of Transport and the South African National Roads Agency SOC Ltd (SANRAL).
The national winners in the 2016 Business Partners/SME Toolkit Global Entrepreneurship Week's Business Plan Competition for Aspiring Young Entrepreneurs are Bahle Nteleki and Mazizi Njokweni.
Based in Johannesburg, the entrepreneurs are behind the business idea, MB.co Podiatrists, a business that offers podiatric interventions for clients, as well as providing a variety of customised innersole accessories, orthotics and footwear modification techniques.
Competition judge, Tiisetso Tsiki of Business Partners Limited (BUSINESS/PARTNERS), says that Nteleki and Njokweni, submitted a high-quality business plan, which included a strong implementable concept and catered to a gap in the market. Over and above the business plan, something else we look for is passion, dedication, drive and enthusiasm all of which are not quantifiable and they both demonstrated these traits, says Tsiki.
SME Toolkit winners (in the middle from left) - Mazizi Njokweni and Bahle Nteleki with Petro Bothma, group enterprise development manager at Business Partners and Christo Botes, executive director at Business Partners
Both certified podiatrists, with proven experience in the industry, this partnership has its sights set on the occupational health industry and plan to focus on individuals who are employed in industries requiring the use of safety boots. While protecting the foot from external dangers, safety footwear can cause severe complications in the lower limbs and feet, says Nteleki. Such injuries can prevent the sufferer from functioning properly in his or her role and can result in poor work performance.
As part of the winners prize, MB.co Podiatry will receive R 25,000 in cash, business mentorship worth R12,000 and a smart tablet device.
Regional winners
This year the competition received 347 entries initially and, after completion of the workshops, 99 business plans were received for judging, from which eight regional winners were selected to contend for the overall national title.
All regional winners received business mentorship valued at R6,000 each. The other regional winners this year are:
Alyssa Reddy SGD Training and Consulting (KwaZulu-Natal Richards Bay): Start, Grow, Develop Training and Consulting is the brain child of 25-year-old Reddy, who realised that soft skills and human resources training was hard to come by in her home town of Richards Bay. The business is initially targeting small and medium enterprises, matriculants and employees looking to broaden their skills-set, but Reddy hopes to eventually branch out and offer her services to larger organisations and the public sector. Japhta Mokoko Jayspectrum Trading and Projects: Randfontein local Mokoko is an artistic glass designer and manufacturer who has identified a large gap in his local market for sandblasting and decorative blasting. While the target market for his glass design is wide ranging from homeowners to shopping centres and industrial parks - he will also be incorporating glass gifting into the business, making the diversity of his products a core business strength. Johnson Mthembu - Stokvella (KwaZulu-Natal Greater Durban): Mthembu is the driver behind Stokvella, a mobile app developed to address the issues of transparency, security and accountability that members of the R45bn stokvel industry face. The Stokvella system aims to put all stokvel members in control of their own monies. Mpho Rasimphi - #FYI Tutoring (Limpopo): Five years ago, Rasimphi began tutoring struggling high school learners in Polokwane in preparation for their final exams. Today, #FYI Tutoring employs university students and part-time educators and targets Grade 12 learners from local high schools by offering extra lessons in mathematics, physical science, accounting, economics and business studies. Murray Senyatsi iRez modern low cost rental apartments (Limpopo): Polokwane is the hub of tertiary education in Limpopo, attracting students from all across the province and even the country. Aspiring property entrepreneur, Senyatsi, aims to address the serious lack of quality accommodation for these students by providing low cost, well managed, safe and secure housing for students who are currently living in poor conditions and at great distances from their learning institutions. Nosisa Ndabandaba Supriim Vegan (Western Cape): Cape Town based Ndabandaba is capitalising on the healthy eating trend gaining popularity around the world, by providing wholesome vegan and gluten-free snacks to those seeking tasty, environmentally friendly food. Starting with an outlet in Cape Towns city centre, this health conscious entrepreneur aims to delight customers with junk food with a clean and healthy twist by sourcing all her organic ingredients locally and providing a 100% vegan alternative where very few options currently exist. Prudence Biziwe Jackson Chosen Fun House (Free State/Northern Cape): Chosen Fun House, founded by Jackson, assists businesses and individuals who are hosting events by taking responsibility for all activities associated with the event. This includes catering, travel and accommodation for guests, in addition to co-ordinating the event itself. Services are provided either separately or as a turnkey package, while events can range from weddings to corporate gatherings to large family reunions and holiday catering services.
Celebrating Global Entrepreneurship Week
Now in its seventh year, the competition is in celebration of annual Global Entrepreneurship Week, taking place this week 14-20 November, which invites youth between the ages of 18 and 35 to submit their business ideas and attend one of 12 workshops held around the country. These regional workshops focus on teaching the complexities and fundamentals of compiling a business plan, as well as the basics of running a business. All 2016 entrants also received a Sales and Marketing e-Learning course from SA BusinessHub to the value of R750 each.
Discussing takeaways from the various workshops, Petro Bothma, enterprise development manager at BUSINESS/PARTNERS, notes that it was evident that the young, hopeful entrepreneurs in attendance do not fully comprehend the vast amount of work that goes into developing a plan and starting a business, with the financial side of a business being largely neglected by many aspiring business owners.
The latest 2015-2016 GEM South Africa report states that the low prevalence of entrepreneurial activity among the youth is of concern in the South African context. While many young aspiring entrepreneurs have the passion and ambition, they often stumble with the technicalities of starting a business.
If we want to encourage our youth to become successful entrepreneurs, we need to adequately support and equip them with the basics and foundations of starting and running a business, which is the very reason why we launched this competition seven years ago, concludes Bothma.
Internet company, Opera, has released its State of the Mobile Web Africa 2016 Report, highlighting mobile internet trends across the continent, including consumer browsing behaviour and app usage. Opera - known for its compression technology and mobile browsers, including Opera Mini - compiles regular global mobile web reports, shedding light on opportunities and challenges within the digital environment.
Opera currently has 100 million users in Africa, with an 86.41% market share in Kenya, 71.83% in Nigeria and 53.1% in South Africa; Nigerian, Kenyan and South African Opera users collectively saved data equating to over half a billion US$ in 2016; android users make up nearly half of overall Opera Mini users in Africa; and 70% of Nigerias Facebook users access it via Opera Mini.
Ghanaians, Kenyans, Seychellois and Mauritians are the highest data users with an average usage of over 160MB/month. Findings also show that visits to streaming video websites on Opera Mini in Africa have increased by 36% since 2012. Users from Tanzania (22%) are most likely to visit YouTube followed by South Africa (20%) and Ghana (19%).
South Africa ranks first in Africa in terms of app usage, with a third of its population using mobile applications, followed by 31% in Ghana, 28% in Nigeria, 19% in Kenya and 18% in Uganda. Nigerians are regular social media users with 70% of Nigerias 16 million Facebook users, accessing the site via Opera Mini.
In addition, Opera Mini users are accessing local news as much as 300% more than in 2014.
Compression is key
We believe data compression is as relevant and useful now as it was a decade ago - in fact, with the growth of smartphone penetration coupled with prohibitively high data costs, its a critical enabler, says Richard Monday, VP for Opera, Africa. The #DataMustFall movement in South Africa demonstrates that people dont feel like theyre getting value for money. The compression technology used in Opera Mini and Opera Max helps consumers save on data costs and addresses issues relating to congestion and page sizes. Ultimately, a lighter mobile web enhances usability, functionality and access - even in poor network conditions.
In 2016, Operas compression technology has allowed South Africans to save approximately US$111m in data costs, with Nigerians and Kenyans saving US$280m and US$116m, respectively.
Opera currently has 100 million users in Africa, with an 86.41% market share in Kenya, 71.83% in Nigeria and 53.1% in South Africa.
ONEm Communications is teaming up with Al Jazeera Media Network to create a new interactive channel for their news content over ordinary mobile.
Al Jazeera Media Network already reaches over 305 million households in over 140 countries and will be now be available as a valuable source of Arabic and English content on the ONEm platform. Al Jazeera Media Network is the first media conglomerate from the Middle East to join the ONEm ecosystem.
ONEm enables Al Jazeera Media Network content consumers access up-to-date news through SMS and audio in both Arabic and English. ONEm provides a new internet-style interactive experience for mobile users by repurposing existing SMS and audio. This is available on both smartphones and basic feature phones.
The user begins by texting #news or #aljazeera to the ONEm platform. The platform responds by starting a menu-driven SMS dialogue with the user whereby the user can select an option to read or listen to an article. Users can also search and sort by categories and view the top trending stories using fuzzy search terms.
A unique feature of the ONEm service is the ability to tap into user generated content that will help news organisations such as Al Jazeera to follow up or verify trending stories.
ONEm is a continuously growing global mobile ecosystem consisting of mobile operators, content providers and mobile users. Content providers such as Al Jazeera see the need to reach the masses with a systematic interactive approach that is global and not dependant exclusively on data enabled devices.
Abdulla Al Najjar, Al Jazeera Media Networks executive director of global brand and communications, commented: We are very excited to announce this agreement. We have a commitment to expand on new avenues and platforms for our audiences across all avenues and we look forward to delivering content in English and Arabic with ONEm.
Christopher Richardson, CEO of ONEm Communications, said, Having lived in Qatar, I listen regularly to Al Jazeera on the radio. I used to sit in the car in the parking lot to finish listening to a documentary report before going to work. Today it is a great pleasure for me to have the opportunity to bring these great documentaries to others through our audio services over voice. I look forward to having Al Jazeera available to their global audience in Arabic and English.
LIMA - The upcoming APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Peru may well approve the strategic study, which is part of the Beijing Roadmap to the Free-Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP), said Raul Salazar, a senior Peruvian official, in an interview with Xinhua.
"We have the obligation to continue our central topic, which is the approval of the collective strategic study, which was required by the roadmap established in Beijing in 2014. It is hope this year the leaders will approve the study as a step toward beginning negotiations for FTAAP," he expressed.
According to Salazar, senior official of Peru to APEC, "this strategic study justifies the start of negotiations."
Said document contains a mixture of initiatives destined to strengthen trade, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, permit SMEs to enter value chains, and improve connectivity, among other areas.
"China has contributed largely to pushing the idea of a free-trade area. This step taken in Beijing...has forced all the members to face the reality that this is necessary for a number of reasons. Peru holds the position that we need an Asia-Pacific free-trade area. It would allow for APEC's work to be deepened and would see free-trade agreements proliferate," said Salazar.
In this context, Salazar pointed out that APEC seeks for its members to voluntarily and unilaterally open up to free trade. He referred to examples such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) or the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RECP), both of which are references for the FTAAP strategic study.
For the diplomat, APEC has already made great progress by reducing tariffs to a current average of 5.2 percent, down from over 20 percent. Work is also continuing to reduce this further for food exports.
Concerning the presence of President Xi Jinping, he said that "it is a privilege that he is not only participating in the APEC meeting but is also coming for a state visit. This is a very significant choice for Peru, as it shows an emerging economy, so far away, is identified as a trusted partner."
"I think that China, for a while now, has made many efforts to build a strong, consistent and structured relationship with Latin America. It began with investments, first largely to do with trade. Then, came investments in natural resources and extractive industries, which are important for trade and the Chinese economy. There is complementarity as Peru is very rich in minerals and natural resources. We feel privileged for this attention," he added.
Concerning integration within the region, Salazar responded that "we are aware that physical integration has been slow across the Andes and the jungle. But we have already taken important steps towards physical integration with Brazil and the Initiative for the Integration of the Regional Infrastructure of South America (IIRSA). We are doing our part."
He also pointed to the electrical interconnection Peru has with Ecuador and its plans to supply energy to Chile as other examples.
However, he admitted that China's investments would help in this regard. "I think the stimulus the Chinese government is carrying out is helping, such as the Trans-Oceanic Railway. There is a debate going on about the high costs, the benefits it would bring to Peru, and the route along which it will be built. There is also a very important decision to be taken as to how much Peru will have to invest. But the planning is being done correctly."
To conclude, Salazar said this physical integration would catch up with other integration policies within the Asia-Pacific region. For example, through the APEC Engineering agreement, 14 of the 21 APEC members now allow engineering students to have their studies officially recognized by all other members.
This is just one of the examples of economic and technical cooperation Salazar hopes to see take center stage at the APEC meeting in Peru.
Trump and Re-Birth of a Nation
These are some of the things candidate Donald Trump said:
"When Mexico sends it people, they're not sending their best. They're not sending you. They're sending people that have lots of problems, and they're bringing those problems with us. They're bringing drugs. They're bringing crime. They're rapists. And some, I assume, are good people"
He also said: I dont even waitAnd when youre a star they let you do itYou can do anythingGrab them by the pussyYou can do anything.
Contrary to the pundits and pollsters believing that Trumps politics of bigotry, misogyny and hatred would prove to be his downfall; America elected Donald Trump as its 45th president. Trumps total lack of understanding of the geopolitical landscape seemed to, like Sarah Palin before him, ingratiate him with his supporters.
In an interview with ABC's George Stephanopoulos Trump proved his ignorance of the geopolitical landscape by saying, "He's (Putin) not going into Ukraine, OK, just so you understand. He's not going to go into Ukraine, all right? You can mark it down" even though Putin took Crimea from Ukraine in early 2014.
President Obama was correct in saying, "What I think is scary is a president who doesn't know their stuff and doesn't seem to have an interest in learning what they don't know."
President Obama also said, This choice actually is pretty cleareven though a bunch of them (Republicans) knew they shouldnt nominate himthe guy they nominated who many of the Republicans he is running against said was a con-artist and a know-nothing and wasnt qualified to hold this officethis guy is temperamentally unfit to be commander in chief and he is not equipped to be president
According to CNN exit polls, 53% of white women voted for Trump while 94% of Black women and 68% of Latino women supported Clinton. According to Edison Research exit polls, college educated White women voted 51% to 45% Clinton over Trump while Non-college educated White women voted 62% to 34% Trump over Clinton.
White men overwhelmingly supported Trump. College educated White men voted 54% to 39% Trump and non-college educated White men voted 72% to 23% Trump.
What motivated White women to vote overwhelmingly for a misogynist who objectified his own daughter? They were born into the world of white privilege. They voted as White over their being women.
On August 6, 2008, The New York Times published an article by Matt Bai entitled "Is Obama the End of Black Politics?" The premise of the article was that in 2008, 60 years after Strom Thurmond left the Democratic Party over the issue of integrating the armed forces and 45 years after Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech, the Democratic Party delivered its nomination for the nation's highest office to an African-American, and this somehow signaled the end of black politics.
Other pundits developed the narrative that with the election of Senator Barak Obama as Americas 44th President, America had truly become a post-racial melting pot.
Performers like Pharrell Williams were mistakenly talking about The New Black. A fictional world where The New Black dreams and realizes that its not pigmentation: its a mentality, and its either going to work for you or its going to work against you. And youve got to pick the side youre going to be on
The election of Donald Trump makes it clear that the politics of ignorance, bigotry, misogyny and hatred played well in a fictitious Post-Racial America.
Trumps racist, xenophobic rhetoric resonated with his white working-class and college educated supporters because racism has been a tenet of the conservative narrative. It has been the covert sub-text to mainstream Republican dialogue, particularly since the election of President Obama.
Trump took the Republican covert sub-text and made it overt presidential racist and misogynistic politics.
As members of the Tea Party spat on Congressman Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), called Congressman John Lewis (D-GA) an nigger and Congressman Barney Frank (D-Mass) a faggot, members of Republican leadership such as Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and former Congressman Eric Cantor (R-VA) did not tell the Tea Party that theres no place in the American political dialogue for such bigotry and hatred.
Why? Because they did not want to risk alienating those voters. Those voters took control of the party and are now celebrating President-elect Trump.
Trump called for surveillance against mosques and said that he was open to establishing a database for all Muslims living in the U.S. His presumptive nominee for Attorney General, Rudy Giuliani has called the Black Lives Matter movement "inherently racist."
Giuliani was also the architect of the Stop and Frisk program. In New York police officers were empowered to detain and search people for often-vague or non-existent pretexts. The program was eventually held by the court to be unconstitutional.
Giuliani has promised, "What I did for New York, Donald Trump will do for America" That will not bode well for people of color.
Trumps presumptive nominee for Secretary of State Newt Gingrich is the same person who called President Obama a Mau Mau in the White House, What if (Obama) is so outside our comprehension, that only if you understand Kenyan anticolonial behavior can you begin to piece together (his actions)?
Gingrich went on to call President Obama a conman, This is a person who is fundamentally out of touch with how the world works, who happened to have played a wonderful con, as a result of which he is now president.
This recent election was as much a repudiation of the Obama legacy as a rejection of Hilary Clinton. After eight years of an African American man in the White House 53% of White women and 63% of White men decided they wanted their country back. To take it back they voted for a man who according to Tony Schwartz, ghostwriter of Trumps The Art of the Deal, just couldnt stay focused for more than a few minutes at a time.
In a representative democracy, why would so many Americans vote for an ignorant, bigoted, misogynistic, hate-filled man to represent them?
Simply put, because in this fictional post-racial America, too many Americans are ignorant, hate-filled, misogynistic bigots. The Civil War is still being waged.
Dr. Wilmer Leon is the Producer/ Host of the nationally broadcast call-in talk radio program Inside the Issues with Leon, on SiriusXM Satellite radio channel 126.
Go to www.wilmerleon.com or email: [email protected]. www.twitter.com/drwleon and Dr. Leons Prescription at Facebook.com
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NEW DELHI (PTI): The Defence Ministry could in the next "few months" finalise higher defence reforms to bring in jointness among the three armed services which will include creation of the post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).
Indian Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar admitted that the services did not want to leave their "turf" but they have "slowly" come to understand that jointness would be much better than individual separate forces.
"I am very clear on it but there were certain aspects which need to be also taken along. I have to take all the three services on board. Let me be very clear, no one wants to leave his turf," he said during a book launch last night.
Underlining that he was not speaking in Indian military context alone, Parrikar said across the militaries, the same situation prevailed.
He added that the question was whether one will "force it down the throat" or get everyone on board.
"I think, I have been discussing with the chiefs and slowly they have also come to understanding that jointness would be much better than individually separate forces," he said, seeking a "few more months".
However, the Defence Minister made it clear that the final call would be taken by the Prime Minister.
Incidentally, the chiefs of both the Army and the Air Force will retire this year end.
Without naming any operation, he said though India has not gone for jointness, "recent operations" were quite successful joint operations.
"The Air Force and the Army integrated so well in recent operations, not saying which operation. There was total synergy and there was no problem in working together," he remarked.
The post of CDS was recommended in 2001 by a Group of Ministers (GoM) which was set up in April 2000 to review the national security system in the aftermath of the Kargil War.
The recommendation, if implemented, would be the first major military reform by the Narendra Modi government, which has already announced significant changes in the procurement process.
Sources said the appointment of CDS is aimed at promoting "jointness at the top" when it comes to planning, operations and modernisation of the military.
Though India has a tri-service command, it is headed by a three-star officer who is junior to the military chiefs who are four-star.
The post of the CDS is likely to be a four-star and he would be in-charge of the tri-services command at Andaman and Nicobar islands, the strategic command in-charge of nuclear weapons along with the upcoming cyber and space command.
Parrikar said in the coming months the Andaman and Nicobar command will become a joint command in "real sense" as it was the "need of the hour", adding that currently there was only a "partial joint command".
Stating that some joint acquisition was being done, Parrikar pointed out that jointness can save the country lot of money.
"We are are replicating the same thing. Air Force does the same thing. Army does the same thing. If there is jointness, lot of things can be synchronised.
"Jointness of acquisition will be advantageous. In fact we are doing some joint acquisition. Give me few more months," he said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had late last year called for "jointness at the top" of the military establishment.
Parrikar had in March last year said that CDS was a must and hoped to propose a mechanism for the creation of the post within the next three months.
The defence minister said he does not care about what people say about him taking more time even though he had given a time period.
"I realised if I hurry, I will do something which will not taste well just because my ego says 'I said six months, I should force it in six months'," he said, adding he was "not there to satisfy his ego".
"I am there to ensure it happens properly. So I decided that someone may say anything about it, I will do it properly.
Today I am confident that I have understood," he said.
KATHMANDU (PTI): Indian Army chief General Dalbir Singh Suhag on Sunday concluded his three-day official visit to Nepal during which he assured the country's leadership of India's commitment to capacity and capability building of Nepal's army.
During his visit, Gen Singh held bilateral talks with his Nepalese counterpart Gen Rajendra Chhetri and other senior government officials on military and security issues.
He was visiting the Himalayan nation, leading a delegation of the Indian Army at the invitation of Gen Chhetri. The visit was aimed at boosting India's military and security ties with the landlocked country.
During his stay, Gen Singh paid a courtesy call to President Bidya Devi Bhandari and met Defence Minister Balkrishna Khand.
He also called on Prime Minister Prachanda.
"Army chief assured him that we are committed to capability and capacity building of Nepal Army," according to Indian Army sources.
On Saturday, he visited Rupandehi district in western Nepal, where he observed "Surya Kiran" - a joint military exercise held between Nepal and Indian armies, according to a statement issued by the Nepal Army Headquarters.
Such high-level visits by top Indian military officials have helped deepen military ties between the two countries as well as expand cooperation, the statement said.
Indian Navy's aircraft carrier, INS Vikramaditya.
KOCHI (PTI): INS Vikramaditya, the largest warship operated by India and the third aircraft carrier inducted into the Indian Navy, is in the process of getting ready to go back to sea as she completed her "refit works" at Cochin Shipyard Limited here.
The ship, 285 metres long and 60 metres wide with 23 decks, was drydocked at the CSL on September 23.
The vessel was undocked on November 5 after carrying out "a large amount of works", a Navy official said here on Friday.
"The ship is now in the process of getting ready to go back to sea. She is preparing all her machinery, all her equipment, all her systems and very shortly we will be sailing off from Kochi and going back to sea," Commanding Officer of the Ship, Captain Krishna Swaminathan, said.
Commenting on the "large amount of works" that have been undertaken at the CSL during the period, Captain Swaminathan said, "we are very happy to report that all the work we have undertaken at the Cochin Shipyard Limited has been undertaken more professionally and we are entirely happy with the quality of the work we have seen."
The ship represents 19.82 acres of "sovereign Indian territory" and projects, promotes and protects the country's maritime interests at sea "any time and anywhere".
Meanwhile, the ship, commissioned on November 16, 2013 by the then Defence Minister A K Antony, at Sevmash Shipyard, Severodvinsk (Russia), celebrated her third anniversary on Friday.
As part of the anniversary, a 33km run was organised by the navy which involved 33 naval personnel. Called the 33 X 33 Anniversary Run of R33 (the ship's pennant number), the event was flagged off by Captain Swaminathan from Ernakulam Wharf.
The route covered Thoppumpady, Wellington Island, Mattanchery, Fort Kochi and several scenic places en route, culminating at the wharf.
"Besides being a part of ship's third anniversary celebrations, the run was also aimed at promoting team work, physical fitness and general well-being," the Navy said.
Officials said the zeal and gusto of the runners rightly brought out the never-die-spirit and attitude of INS Vikramaditya.
Rear Admiral R J Nadkarni, Chief of Staff, Southern Naval Command presided over the event as the Chief Guest. He felicitated the participants and addressed the crew of the ship on the occasion.
Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 14/11/2016 (2178 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
Michael Cain had nothing to do with his country voting Donald Trump president, but he couldnt absolve himself of the burden he felt.
The Brandon University music professor couldnt look his neighbour in the eye when he walked out his front door the morning after Trumps improbable victory in a bitter U.S. presidential election.
I realized it was shame, said Cain, an African American who recognizes the deep-seated cultural divide in the United States. Beside from the concern globally, I was so ashamed
(Submitted) Brandon University Prof. Michael Cain, dismayed his country elected Donald Trump as president, said he feels shame his country overlooked the racist and misogynistic language normalized in Trump's rhetoric. Cain said his class helped him feel better after the stunning election result.
that America had done that that I couldnt look at him.
When he entered his first class Wednesday morning, his guilt intensified. He struggled to look at his students.
Cain said he felt better when he got his Introduction to Improvisation students to sit in a circle and share.
We instantly started talking in that way that is considerate, thoughtful and compassionate of people, Cain said. Man, that was such a moment. I thought it was a valuable conversation for all of us to have but I needed that because it was a human conversation it made me very, very proud to be here (in Brandon).
The anger and pain Trumps critics have felt since the Republicans candidate unlikely triumph is especially pronounced among women and minority groups, who felt repeatedly maligned by Trump.
Cain, who shared on Facebook his feelings of shame at Trumps victory, understands the cultural war that bubbled to the surface this election. Still, he is baffled at the level of racism, misogyny and xenophobia legitimatized in Trumps rhetoric.
The fact that half of the country can overlook not one, not two, but a living continuous expression of those kinds of ideas, he said. I think to a lot of women, I think to a lot of minorities, I think they feel like I do.
Some have protested. Throngs of mainly young adults demonstrated in cities across the U.S. in the days that followed, against a president-elect who has criticized immigrants, Muslims and faced repeated accusations he sexually assaulted women. He has vehemently denied those accusations.
Trump won the election thanks in large part to white men and women without college degrees. In general, Trump captured 58 per cent of the white vote, while only 29 per cent of Hispanic and Asian voted for him, and eight per cent of black Americans, according to data from Edison Research.
Throughout this election campaign, Cain heard his American friends suggest theyd move to Canada to escape a Trump presidency.
Mostly, he believes their comments were said as a joke.
After nine years in Canada working in BUs music faculty, Cain wont discourage anyone from moving north, but said they should take it seriously. They shouldnt look at Canada as a last resort when politics become intolerable.
I think that does a disservice to Canada as a country when Americans say that, he said. Youre talking about a people, youre talking about a country. A country with a history. A country with a culture and a psychology. Youre talking about a full-fledged place thats not just a place you think you go to because you can no longer live in yours.
Cain said it didnt take him long to realize Canada has its own cultural framework. To him, its a welcoming place where he can have heartfelt conversations with his students.
This is its own place entirely and you have to respect that, he said.
ifroese@brandonsun.com
Twitter: @ianfroese
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This article was published 14/11/2016 (2178 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
The letters home from a woman hospitalized in Souris in the 1930s have become the backbone for a new book.
A family friend approached me and told me about his grandmothers letters, said Terry Letienne, author of Letters from Lea. She was in Souris Hospital with an appendicitis attack. She was 28 years old, had two young boys and she wrote letters home to her mother and her husband.
The letters, approximately 50 in total, needed to be translated from French to English, which Letienne was able to do.
Submitted Terry Letienne launched her book, Letters from Lea, in Winnipeg in August. Letienne will be stopping at the Coles location in Shoppers Mall on Saturday, Nov. 19.
There were a few terms sometimes that didnt seem quite right, but we researched enough to know we were translating properly, Letienne said. Back in the 30s, Lea probably had about a Grade 7 or Grade 8 education, I would think, so the writing was simple.
Once translated, Letienne said she was able to put the letters in order and piece together what had happened over the year.
Thats when I came up with the concept of writing a fiction story staying as true to what really happened as possible but fictionalizing the emotion of it what it was like to be away from her boys and what that entailed.
With they blessing of the family, Letienne embarked on a three- to four-year journey of research, going through family histories, vital statistics and archives.
I wanted it to be as authentic as possible, Letienne said. I also kept the letters intact to me they were so powerful just as they were. I didnt cut anything out, I kept the order, I kept the way that she wrote the letters. Sometimes they were a little disorganized in the way they were written, but thats the way she wrote it, so I left them like that.
Letienne said she also learned a new approach to writing that was unlike anything shed ever experienced before.
It was an emotional process, Letienne said. I needed to absorb every letter, one at a time, because it was all about the feeling of what Lea went through. So I would read a letter, and kind of internalize it and think about what would have happened after she wrote the letter and put her pencil down and I did that with every letter, the process was so different.
Despite there being almost a century between them, Letienne said she felt a connection with Lea.
There was a real practical side to her that showed in her letters, and there were distinct, little differences with how she wrote to her mother versus how she wrote to her husband, Letienne said. But I connected to her so quickly and I think maybe being a mom myself I just connected with this young mom who missed her kids.
Submitted The book cover for "Letters from Lea" features the actual letters Lea Mhey wrote home in 1932.
Letienne self-published the book in August, launching at McNally Robinson in Winnipeg. She is now starting a tour at Chapters, Indigo and Coles stores through the Prairies, stopping at Shoppers Mall in Brandon on Saturday from 1 p.m to 3 p.m.
So far, readers feedback has been incredibly positive, Letienne said.
Letters are such a lost art, and I think people connect to that, she said.
edebooy@brandonsun.com
Twitter: @erindebooy
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This article was published 14/11/2016 (2178 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
The community of Hamiota now has a more concrete way to remember its veterans more than 750 names etched in stone.
A new veterans wall was unveiled on Remembrance Day, dedicated to the Hamiota soldiers who served in the First and Second World War.
The biggest job was getting all the names going through archives and reading anything that we could to find all the names, said Pete Oberlin, who organized the veterans wall. We came out with between 750 and 775 names It was a fairly time-consuming job, there were lot of details to figure out.
Photo submitted by Tammie McConnell The new veterans wall in Hamiota honours the men and women who served in the First and Second World Wars. More than 750 names are listed.
Oberlin suggested the idea about two years ago and was given the go-ahead to organize the project.
In order to ensure no one was missed, they included anyone who enlisted from the area, Oberlin said.
Theres a few (veterans) who moved to Hamiota and are long-term residents most of the names are people from Hamiota. At the time, there were a lot of transient people working on farms and such so they were enlisting from here, Oberlin said.
About 75 people attended the dedication ceremony and the unveiling of the veterans wall, Oberlin said.
Two veterans laid wreaths, honouring the men who fought for Canada.
It feels very good (that its now completed), Oberlin said. The community really appreciates it.
edebooy@brandonsun.com
Twitter: @erindebooy
Finance Minister Michael Noonan is expected to offer reassurances about the country's enduring appeal when he meets potential investors in the United States this week.
The visit was planned following the outcome of the UK referendum on Brexit, which Mr Noonan said presented an important challenge for the Irish economy.
As well as representatives from large US companies which have bases in Ireland, the minister will also meet US Treasury Secretary Jack Lew and officials from the IMF and World Bank.
Mr Noonan said: "Ireland has strong ties with the US and this is most evident in terms of inward investment from American companies.
"I meet regularly with current and prospective investors from the US and this visit will allow me to emphasise Ireland's attractiveness as a destination for foreign direct investment following the UK's decision to exit the European Union.
"Companies invest in Ireland for a broad range of reasons, not least to access the world's largest economic bloc, the European Union.
"As a common law, English speaking and business friendly jurisdiction we will continue to be an attractive destination for US companies.
"We will continue to look outwardly and engage with investors with a view to encouraging substantive investment in Ireland which creates high-quality employment for our people."
Last month Foreign Minister Charlie Flanagan expressed concern after Stormont First Minister Arlene Foster accused Dublin officials of poaching foreign investment and of talking down the Northern Ireland economy.
US stocks have come back from an early loss on Wall Street and finished almost unchanged.
Technology companies like Apple and Microsoft took big losses on fears about their overseas revenue, but bank stocks continued to surge along with bond yields.
Technology stocks have been weak since last week's presidential election, and they fell further on Monday as investors wondered if Donald Trump's policies as president will hurt their sales in China and other markets overseas.
Bank stocks built on their post-election gains as bond yields continued to rise. That paves the way for banks to make more money from lending, and government bond yields are at their highest levels since January.
"The market is sniffing out the belief that some of these Trump policies may drive some better economic growth but also may in fact be somewhat inflationary," said PNC chief investment strategist Bill Stone.
The Dow Jones industrial average gained 21.03 points, or 0.1%, to close at 18,868.69, another all-time high. The Standard & Poor's 500 index dipped 0.25 points to 2,164.20 after it fell as much as 0.4% earlier. The Nasdaq composite sank 18.72 points, or 0.4%, to 5,218.40.
Technology companies fell sharply, with familiar names taking some of the largest losses. Apple gave up 2.72 dollars, or 2.5%, to 105.71 dollars, while Facebook declined 3.94 dollars, or 3.3%, to 115.08 dollars, and Microsoft slid 90 cents, or 1.5%, to 58.12 dollars. Alphabet, the parent company of Google, slipped 18.53 dollars, or 2.4%, to 753.22 dollars.
Bond prices fell and yields jumped as investors anticipated that Mr Trump's spending plans would lead to higher inflation and more government borrowing. The yield on the 10-year US Treasury note climbed to 2.25% from 2.14% late on Thursday.
Bond trading was closed on Friday for the Veterans' Day holiday. The day before the November 8 election, the yield was 1.83%. That is a huge move for the benchmark rate.
Goldman Sachs rose 5.24 dollars, or 2.6%, to 209.18 dollars, and Bank of America rose 1.06 dollars, or 5.6%, to 20.08 dollars. JPMorgan Chase picked up 2.82 dollars, or 3.7%, to 79.51 dollars.
Mr Stone said investors are focused on potential corporate and individual tax cuts, a "wave of deregulation" that eliminates some of the rules governing businesses like energy companies and banks, and more protectionism on trade, which could hurt sales for companies that do a lot of business overseas.
Investors are also pleased at the prospect of looser regulation and bigger profits. For example, Mr Trump's election could result in big changes to the Dodd-Frank financial reform bill or to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Mr Stone added that corporate dealmaking could increase if Mr Trump's administration takes a looser approach to antitrust regulation. Several companies announced deals or deal offers on Monday.
South Korean conglomerate Samsung said it will buy Harman International for 8 billion dollars, or 112 dollars a share. Harman makes electronics for cars including audio systems and safety and entertainment features. Its stock jumped 22.07 dollars, or 25.2%, to 109.72 dollars.
German industrial equipment company Siemens agreed to buy software maker Mentor Graphics for 4.5 billion dollars, or 37.25 dollars a share. Mentor's stock rose 5.61 dollars, or 18.3%, to 36.29 dollars.
Shares in communication adapter maker Digi International rose 1.75 dollars, or 15%, to 13.40 dollars after the company said it had received an offer from Belden, a communications equipment company. Digi said it rejected the bid of 13.82 dollars a share, or about 359 million dollars, because it is too low. Belden stock added 1.52 dollars, or 2.2%, to 71.22 dollars.
The dollar rose against other currencies as US interest rates rose. It jumped to 108.51 Japanese yen from 106.78 yen. The euro fell to 1.0726 dollars from 1.0845 dollars.
Investors are also selling companies that pay big dividends like utilities and phone companies as bonds become more appealing to investors seeking income. Verizon fell 51 cents, or 1.1%, to 46.18 dollars, and American Electric Power lost 1.27 dollars, or 2.1%, to 58.72 dollars.
Oil prices bounced back from a big loss early on. Benchmark US crude slipped just 9 cents to 43.32 dollars a barrel in New York. Brent crude, used to price international oils, lost 32 cents to 44.43 dollars a barrel in London.
In other energy trading, wholesale gasoline lost 3 cents to 1.28 dollars a gallon. Heating oil fell 2 cents to 1.39 dollars a gallon. Natural gas jumped 13 cents, or 5%, to 2.75 dollars per 1,000 cubic feet.
Gold fell 2.60 dollars to 1,221.70 dollars an ounce. Silver lost 49 cents, or 2.8%, to 16.89 dollars an ounce. Copper picked up 1 cent to 2.52 dollars a pound.
France's CAC 40 rose 0.4% and Germany's DAX added 0.2%. The FTSE 100 index of leading British shares closed 0.3% higher. In Japan the Nikkei 225 jumped 1.7% after a strong reading on Japan's economic growth. The Kospi in South Korea lost 0.5% and Hong Kong's Hang Seng slipped 1.4%.
We have all had one of those nights where the club finishes up but you are still not ready to give up and go home.
Well in Limerick, after the clubs closed, a giddy bunch recreated the party scene in a pizza place just down the road.
A Dublin man has been jailed for his role in the movement of 778,000 worth of cannabis imported from Spain and hidden under scented candles.
Elliot Kidd (aged 25) of Mabel Street, Dublin pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possessing drugs for sale or supply on June 11, 2015.
His co-accused Jonathan Carberry (aged 35) and Gavin Mulvey (aged 35) were jailed last July after they also pleaded guilty to the same offence.
Judge Melanie Greally imposed a sentence of seven years with two suspended on Carberry of Marlfield Green, Tallaght, after noting his previous good character.
She imposed a sentence of three years with the last year suspended on Mulvey of Kiltalown Road, Jobstown, noting that he joined the scheme at the last minute and with no advance knowledge.
Today Kidd was sentenced to five years with the final 18 months suspended on strict conditions including that he engage with the Probation Service for 18 months upon his release and engage with both addiction and mental health services.
Judge Greally said she had taken into account Kidd's plea of guilty, his fragile psychological state at the time of the offence and his motivation for getting involve in the crime.
Carberry, Mulvey and Kidd were unloading the drugs at Bath Lane, Dublin when gardai swooped and arrested them. A fourth man who was also present got away.
Detective Sergeant Tom Waters told Eilis Brennan BL, prosecuting, that a customs officer with a sniffer dog found the drugs in a warehouse on June 9 last year. About 37.9kg of cannabis herb was packed in pallets under scented candles.
The pallet was eventually picked up by a courier, who knew nothing about its contents. Carberry called the courier and told to meet him at a roundabout, where Mulvey paid him 70 to deliver the goods to Bath Lane.
The four men were in the middle of loading the pallets into two cars when gardai arrived.
The court heard that Mulvey met his friend Carberry on the morning of the offence and later agreed to join him on the job, paying the courier driver because Carberry was busy at the time.
Bernard Condon SC, defending Carberry, said his client's substantial admissions to gardai formed a central part of the prosecution case.
He said that the former taxi driver had no previous convictions and had been offered 200 to carry out the job. Carberry, a married father-of-two, did this because he had significant debt, including mortgage arrears. It was a catastrophic mistake, he added.
Garnet Orange SC, defending Mulvey, said his client was a childhood friend of Carberry's who was essentially along for the ride.
The evidence would suggest he stumbled on events as they were going along and only became aware of what was happening when events (started) happening, Mr Orange said.
Mr Orange said Mulvey, a father with a close, loving family has no previous convictions.
The court heard Mulvey was still recovering from a bizarre accident at home in which he broke his neck. He had only recently started working again as an alarm monitoring supervisor before the offence and gave up his job to avoid embarrassing his employer, Mr Orange said. That's a sign of his decency, he said.
Damien Colgan SC, representing Kidd, said his client undertook to get involved in the offence in order to pay 300 off a drug debt. He said Kidd, who has three previous convictions, was a drug addict who lost his job as a locksmith during the recession.
He thought this was an easy way for him to overcome this debt he had, Mr Colgan said.
The first White House Adviser on Violence Against Women has spoken of Donald Trumps sexism.
Lynn Rosenthal is addressing the Safe Ireland Summit, which is hearing from 35 international experts on domestic violence.
Bold leaders in conversation with Lynn Rosenthal #safeirelandsummit pic.twitter.com/EGUpwHvRjx Women's Aid Dundalk (@womensaiddlk) November 14, 2016
Ms Rosenthal spoke of a sailing class she took, several years ago, when Mr Trump reacted to an anecdote about equality.
"Two rows in front of me, red in the face, [he said:] 'My wife will never be the captain'," she recalled.
"That guy has just been elected President of the United States.
"And when he leans forward and shouts out 'My wife will never be the captain', he means 'Anyone who seems inferior to me, because of race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion has no place in my country."
Earlier at the summit, the mother of a victim of domestic homicide has called for a change in how such crimes are recorded.
Maria Dempsey, whose daughter Alicia Brough was among four people murdered by John Geary in Limerick six years ago, said: "A start could be that a domestic homicide is registered as such on a death certificate.
"That way, the Central Statistics Office could see these deaths as meaningful statistics."
She added: "We would know then what we're facing, we would know the extent of the task we are facing as a country."
Update 1.45pm: Minister for Housing Simon Coveney has said that he will be announcing plans to ease pressure on renters next month.
Minister Coveney says the rate of inflation in the market is unsustainable and needs to be tackled.
His comments comes as a new Savills report predicts that rents will rise by 19% in Dublin and 14% outside the capital by the end of 2018.
Minister Coveney said that the situation needs to be managed carefully.
Were going to announce the detail of that in about a months time, he said.
But the balance is, first of all we need to recognise that some renters are under massive pressure.
It is not sustainable to see rental inflation at the pace that its currently happening, and we need to respond to that, but we need to respond to it in a way that doesnt actually shut off the appetite to invest in new rental accommodation either.
Earlier:
Minister for Housing Simon Coveney has said that he is determined to avoid bad planning of the past in future social housing developments.
Minister Coveney said that his plans for thousands of new homes will be built in mixed public-private developments.
It comes as a new Savills Report predicted that rents will rise by 19% in Dublin and 14% outside the capital by the end of 2018.
Minister Coveney said that good planning is key to solving the housing crisis.
"I am determined to ensure that if we are going to add 50,000 houses to the social housing stock in Ireland, we are not going to do what was done in the 70s and 80s, whereby you build all the social houses in one part of a city, and you allow only private houses to be built in other parts of cities," he said.
"That is a recipe for social disadvantage, but its also a recipe for political unrest, understandably, as people feel they are locked out of progress and opportunity."
A Chinese national has pleaded guilty to manslaughter for killing a man outside his internet cafe in Dublin city centre.
The plea was accepted by the State and a sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 5.
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Hosts Daniel McConnell and Paul Hosford take a look back at some of the most dramatic moments in recent Irish political history from the unique perspective of one of the key players involved.
The British Prime Minister will set out her response to the global changes signalled by Donald Trump's election victory in her first major foreign policy speech amid tensions about Nigel Farage's close links to the president-elect.
Theresa May will use an address in the City of London to say that the UK can seize the opportunities presented by Brexit and the US election to become a global leader on free trade, "doing business with old allies and new partners alike".
But European divisions about Mr Trump's election victory were underlined as Brussels foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini dismissed Boris Johnson's absence from a meeting of EU ministers by saying it was "normal" for a country leaving the bloc "not to be so interested" in the future of EU-US relations.
Arriving in Brussels for a regular meeting of EU foreign ministers, Mr Johnson said the election of Mr Trump represented a "moment of opportunity" for Britain and for Europe.
"I think there is a lot to be positive about and it is very important not to prejudge the president-elect or his administration," he said.
"It's only a few days since the election has taken place. I think we all need to wait and see what they come up with. But I think we should regard it as a moment for opportunity.
"Donald Trump is a dealmaker and I think that could be a good thing for Britain, but it could also be a good thing for Europe and that I think is what we need to focus on today."
Mrs May will use her speech at the Lord Mayor's Banquet to say the UK is uniquely placed to provide leadership in the transformed modern world.
She will say that the UK will not be "standing inflexibly, refusing to change and still fighting the battles of the past, but adapting to the moment, evolving our thinking and seizing the opportunities ahead".
"That is the kind of leadership we need today. And I believe that it is Britain's historic global opportunity to provide it," Mrs May will say.
But she will also acknowledge the anti-globalisation sentiments that helped fuel the victories of both Mr Trump and the Brexit campaign.
Mrs May will say that the UK can "show the world that we can be the strongest global advocate for free markets and free trade because we believe they are the best way to lift people out of poverty ... but that we can also do much more to ensure the prosperity they provide is shared by all".
She will say: "To be the true global champion of free trade in this new modern world, we also need to do something to help those families and communities who can actually lose out from it."
Following high-profile corporate scandals such as Sir Philip Green's sale of BHS, Mrs May will say the UK can "demonstrate that we can be the strongest global advocate for the role businesses play in creating jobs, generating wealth and supporting a strong economy and society" but "we can also recognise when a minority of businesses and business figures appear to game the system and work to a different set of rules, the social contract between businesses and their employees fails - and the reputation of business as a whole is quickly undermined".
The election of Mr Trump has presented Number 10 with a diplomatic headache as Mrs May has come under pressure to take advantage of the access that interim Ukip leader Mr Farage has to the president-elect.
Number 10 has insisted that Mr Farage will have no role to play, but Tory peer and former trade envoy Lord Marland said Downing Street should use Mr Farage as a "salesman".
After pulling off the political coup of becoming the first British politician to meet Mr Trump since his election win, Mr Farage hinted ministers are sounding him out about dealing with the president-elect as he revealed the Republican victor's close advisers have "reservations" about Mrs May's government.
Mr Farage disclosed that members of the president-elect's inner circle were concerned about unflattering comments made by British Cabinet ministers, though Mr Trump told him he had a "nice" phone call with Mrs May.
"He said he had a nice conversation, although some of his team had reservations about what members of the Cabinet have said during the election. Believe you me, his team are conscious of the comments," Mr Farage told The Daily Telegraph.
The pair met at Trump Tower in New York and spent over an hour discussing the president-elect's victory, global politics and the status of Brexit, according to Ukip.
The EU's response to Mr Trump's election was to convene an emergency meeting of foreign ministers - which was snubbed by Mr Johnson.
Ms Mogherini barely concealed her frustration at the situation, telling reporters: "Some in Europe are surprised not when that country is absent, but nowadays that it is still present around the table of the 28.
"So, I guess it is only normal for a country that has decided to leave the European Union not to be so interested in our discussions on the future of our relations with the United States."
MOSCOW - As the main driving force of growth in the Asia-Pacific, China has served as a major source of dynamism within the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), Russian experts said.
This is proven by China's activity in regional cooperation, as well as by the important role Chinese businesses have played in all spheres of economic cooperation in the region, Andrey Belov, first deputy dean of the Faculty of Economics of St. Petersburg State University, told Xinhua in a recent interview.
China clearly demonstrated its interest in developing partnership in the region, while Chinese businesses have huge influence in the processes of regional integration, said Belov.
At the 2015 APEC informal leader's meeting held in Manila, the Philippines, out of the total 800 companies present, nearly 150 were from China, he said.
China has the political clout to promote the cooperation between Russia and other countries not involved in APEC activities, as this joint work would serve the fundamental interests of countries in the region and around the world, Belov added.
China, which joined APEC in 1991, two years after its inception, has hosted APEC summits twice -- one after the Sept 11 attacks in 2001 and the other amid the Ukraine crisis in 2014.
During the 2014 APEC summit in Beijing, APEC member economies pushed forward the process of the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP) by sketching out a historic road map for the FTAAP.
The meeting also adopted important documents for an integrated, innovative and interconnected Asia-Pacific.
"It was there (at the Beijing meeting) that the idea of creating a free trade area including all countries in the region acquired real shape for the first time," said Oleg Timofeyev, associate professor of the Russian University of Peoples' Friendship.
"Without the participation of Beijing, this platform would simply not assume the form it has now," Timofeyev said.
Chinese leaders have always stressed APEC's leading role in addressing trade and economic problems in the region, never allowing it to be dragged into painful political issues, such as territorial disputes, he said.
A collective strategic study on issues related to the realization of the FTAAP has been completed and the final version of the study along with recommendations will be presented to leaders at the 24th APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting held from Nov 19 to Nov 20 in Lima, Peru.
At the Peru summit under the theme of "Quality Growth and Human Development," the 21 APEC members will seek to make decisions to facilitate trade and investment as well as consolidate liberalization policies.
Besides, APEC is capable of taking real steps to avoid confrontation and destructive competition between it and other integration mechanisms in the region, which would help establish mutually beneficial and fruitful cooperation, Belov said.
Dialogue with other institutions will take place at the Peru summit, including one between APEC members and the Pacific Alliance -- a Latin American trade bloc composed of Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Peru -- and another with Christine Lagarde, managing director of the International Monetary Fund.
Donald Trump insists Americans have nothing to fear when he gets into the White House.
He has repeated his anti-abortion stance and says he will not overturn the legalisation of same sex marriage.
The president-elect has also shown no signs of weakening his policy on immigration.
In an interview with CBS's 60 Minutes, the President-elect made it clear he intends to aggressively pursue a conservative agenda.
On immigration, Mr Trump reaffirmed his campaign pledge to build a wall between the US and Mexico, although he conceded parts of it may be just a fence.
And he said as many as three million undocumented immigrants with criminal records would be deported or jailed.
"What we are going to do is get the people that are criminals and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers," he said.
"We have a lot of these people, probably two million, it could be even three million, we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate."
He left the door open, however, on the fate of the millions of other hard-working immigrants in the country illegally.
"After the border is secured and after everything gets normalised, we're going to make a determination on the people that you're talking about who are terrific people," he said.
Immigration was one of three top legislative priorities, he said, the others being action to undo Barack Obama's signature healthcare reform but to keep some aspects of it, and a bill to cut taxes and simplify the tax code.
Mr Trump also pledged to name justices to the Supreme Court who are anti-abortion and pro-gun rights.
"The judges will be pro-life," he told CBS. "In terms of the whole gun situation," he added, "they're going to be very pro-Second Amendment."
Responding to the thousands of protesters who have massed in streets below Trump Tower headquarters, the billionaire said "I just don't think they know me".
He went on to tell those Americans who are scared of his presidency: "Don't be afraid. We are going to bring our country back."
He also confirmed he would forego the $400,000 salary that comes with the office of president.
"I'm not going to take the salary. I'm not taking it," he said. "I think I have to by law take $1, so I'll take $1 a year," he added.
A nurse who helped fight Ebola faces being struck off after being accused of recording an inaccurate temperature on an airport screening form for a medic who had contracted the virus.
Donna Wood had returned to the UK from Sierra Leone along with Pauline Cafferkey, who survived the deadly disease, on December 28 2014, and the pair's group were caught up in the "chaotic" screening process at Heathrow Airport, a misconduct hearing heard.
Wood appeared before an independent panel at the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) in Stratford, east London, facing three misconduct charges, including recording the reading dishonestly in order to hide it from public health officials.
She is accused of writing down a temperature of 37.2C after a doctor, Hannah Ryan, had taken Ms Cafferkey's temperature twice, with readings of 38.2C and 38.3C.
A temperature above 37.5C required further assessment by doctors at the Public Health England (PHE) screening room, the NMC's Aja Hall said.
Delays in the screening process at Heathrow, which were the result of PHE staff being "not properly prepared" to handle the volume of at-risk visitors, meant Wood's group had begun taking their own temperatures, Ms Hall said.
Dr Ryan had taken Ms Cafferkey's temperature and found it to be elevated.
Reading the medic's statement, she said: "It was just me, Pauline Cafferkey and Donna Wood present.
"I took her temperature in her left ear - it was 38.2C. I showed it to Pauline, the thermometer.
"I told her to stay calm, we were both a bit panicky.
"Donna was recording the temperatures on the form.
"I took it again in the right ear - it was 38.3C. I asked Pauline if she was feeling OK, she said she was OK."
Dr Ryan then goes on to say "I stood there in shock, it was like I was paralysed. I had no clear thought process.
"Ebola is such a horrible disease, every time you have a high temperature you worry, even though you know there's no need."
Ms Hall claimed Wood suggested the reading was "artificial", after Ms Cafferkey told Wood she felt "warm" on the plane, which was attributed to the fact that the Scottish nurse had been sleeping in a hoodie during the flight.
Ms Hall continued: "Donna Wood broke the inertia by saying 'I'm just just going to write it down as 37.2C and then we will get out of here and sort it out'."
At some point at around 5pm Ms Cafferkey took paracetamol before she left the screening area, Ms Hall said.
After the group left the screening room and made it to the arrivals hall, Dr Ryan reported Ms Cafferkey's high temperature to another doctor, who recommended the Scottish medic return to be screened again.
Ms Hall said Ms Cafferkey's temperature was then checked again three times by a PHE consultant and was found to be a maximum of 37.6C, meaning she was given the all-clear to travel on to Glasgow.
The following day, Ms Cafferkey became "extremely ill" and was admitted to hospital, where she was diagnosed with Ebola.
Wood made no admissions to any of the allegations at Monday's hearing.
At the time Wood was a senior sister at Haywood Hospital in Staffordshire and was one of the first group of NHS medics to travel to West Africa.
She featured in the UK's Department for International Development's promotional campaign, when she was hailed as a "hero" by then international development secretary Justine Greening.
While in Sierra Leone, where the disease killed almost 4,000 people, Wood worked for Save the Children.
Ms Cafferkey was cleared at an earlier hearing in September of allowing the incorrect temperature to be recorded.
An NMC panel found three charges against her were not proven and her fitness to practise was not affected.
It ruled her judgment at the airport in December 2014 had been so impaired by the developing illness that she could not be found guilty of misconduct.
The Ecuadorian government has welcomed moves by the Swedish authorities to interview Julian Assange inside its embassy over a sex allegation.
Representatives from the Swedish prosecutor's office and the Swedish police will be present while questions are put to the WikiLeaks founder by an Ecuadorian official today.
Mr Assange has been granted political asylum by Ecuador and has been living inside the embassy for over four years.
He believes that if he leaves the embassy he will be extradited to the United States for questioning over the activities of WikiLeaks.
He denies the allegation against him and has been offering to be interviewed at the embassy.
aGuillaume Long, Ecuador's foreign minister, told the Press Association: "We are pleased that the Swedish authorities will finally interview Mr Assange in our embassy in London.
"This is something that Ecuador has been inviting the Swedish prosecutors to do ever since we granted asylum to Mr Assange in 2012.
"There was no need for the Swedish authorities to delay for over 1,000 days before agreeing to carry out this interview, given that the Swedish authorities regularly question people in Britain and received permission to do so on more than 40 occasions in recent years.
"Ecuador has never sought to stand in the way of any legal process in Sweden.
"What we have asked from Sweden, and the UK, are guarantees that Mr Assange will not be extradited to a third country, where he could be persecuted for his work as as a journalist.
"The Ecuadorian government granted asylum to Mr Assange in 2012 given the risk of such political persecution and we believe that this threat remains very real."
The Swedish assistant prosecutor, chief prosecutor Ingrid Isgren, and a Swedish police investigator will be present at the interview and have said that providing Mr Assange gives his consent, a DNA sample will also be taken.
The results of the interview will be reported from Ecuador to the Swedish prosecutors in a written statement. After this report, the prosecutors will take a view on the continuation of the investigation.
Ingrid Isgren will not give interviews during her stay in London, it was made clear.
"As the investigation is ongoing, it is subject to confidentiality. This confidentiality also applies according to Ecuadorian legislation for the investigative measures conducted at the embassy.
"Therefore, the prosecutors cannot provide information concerning details of the investigation after the interview," said a statement.
"I welcome the fact that the investigation can now move forward via an interview with the suspect," said director of prosecution Marianne Ny, who is responsible for the investigation.
A US judge has ordered the release of Making A Murderer's Brendan Dassey, whose homicide conviction was overturned in a case profiled in the Netflix series, while prosecutors appeal.
US magistrate judge William Duffin ordered Dassey's release from prison contingent upon him meeting multiple conditions.
The judge ruled in August that investigators tricked Dassey into confessing he helped his uncle, Steven Avery, rape, kill and mutilate photographer Teresa Halbach in 2005.
The state has appealed that ruling.
Steven Avery
Dassey's lawyer, Steve Drizin, said he had not spoken yet with Dassey, but he hoped to have him out of prison in time to spend Thanksgiving with his family.
"That's what I'm focused on right now, getting him home, getting him with his family and then helping him to re-integrate back into society while his appeal plays out," Mr Drizin said.
Wisconsin Attorney General Brad Schimel issued a statement saying he would file an emergency motion in the 7th US Circuit Court of Appeals to put the release order on hold.
Dassey's supervised release was not immediate. He had until noon on Tuesday to provide the federal probation and parole office with the address of where he planned to live.
Mr Drizin would not say where Dassey plans to live.
Dassey was 16 when Ms Halbach died. He is now 27.
Judge Duffin ruled in August that investigators made specific promises of leniency to Dassey and that no "fair-minded jurists could disagree".
He cited one investigator's comment early in the interview that "you don't have to worry about things", plus repeated comments like "it's OK" and that they already knew what happened.
Mr Schimel, in his appeal, said investigators did not promise leniency and they specifically told Dassey that no promises could be made.
Ms Halbach was killed on Halloween 2005, after she visited the Avery family's salvage yard in Manitowoc County.
Investigators allege Avery lured her there by asking her to take photos of a minivan. Dassey was sentenced to life in prison in 2007.
Court documents describe him as a slow learner who had poor grades and has difficulty understanding language and speaking.
Avery was convicted in a separate trial and was also sentenced to life in prison. He is pursuing his own appeal.
Their cases gained national attention after Netflix aired Making A Murderer last year. The series spawned widespread conjecture about the pair's innocence.
Authorities who worked on the cases said the series was biased, but it generated calls from the public to free both men.
The man accused of the terror-related murder of British Labour MP Jo Cox will stand trial at the Old Bailey later.
Thomas Mair, 53, allegedly shot and stabbed the 41-year-old outside her constituency surgery in Birstall, near Leeds, on June 16.
Police in Pakistan have arrested 10 alleged members of a criminal gang accused of flogging a transgender woman and posting a video of the abuse on social media.
The arrests were made in the eastern city of Sialkot after a video of the flogging was shared thousands of times on social media, said police official Iqbal Sindhu.
The video shows the gang leader pinning the woman face down on a bed with his foot and beating her with what appears to be a leather belt.
At one point, while another gang member continues the flogging, the leader places his foot on the victim's neck and twists her arms.
Police chief Abid Khan said five of those arrested have been charged with torture and extortion, while the other five are under investigation.
The alleged gang leader, who identified himself as Jajja, told Dunya News that he was friends with the victim.
"I was punishing him because he didn't refrain from his bad habits, which I pointed out to him several times," he said in an interview conducted while he was in police custody.
Transgender people in Pakistan are social outcasts who are often forced into begging, dancing and prostitution to earn money.
Fearing attacks, most either change their names or use only one name.
TransAction, a local transgender rights group, posted a video interview with another transgender woman who identified herself as Jolie and said she was present when the attack took place.
She said the gang members barged into a house where several transgender women were living, beating and torturing one of them for several hours and shaving the heads of others.
Mr Sindhu, the police official, confirmed Jolie was present at the scene.
AP
At least six civilians have been killed in a suicide attack south of Baghdad, Iraq's Interior Ministry said.
Spokesman Brigadier General Saad Maan said six suicide bombers tried to infiltrate the holy Shiite city of Karbala on Monday, but security forces managed to kill five of them.
A Swedish prosecuting official has arrived at the Ecuadorian embassy in London to be present while Julian Assange is interviewed about a sex allegation.
Ingrid Isgren faced a battery of photographers as she stepped out of a car and walked up the steps to the front door of the embassy in Knightsbridge.
She made no comment and is expected to remain for the duration of the questioning, which is being carried out by an Ecuadorian government official.
Mr Assange has been granted political asylum by Ecuador and has been living inside the embassy for more than four years.
He believes that if he leaves the embassy he will be extradited to the United States for questioning over the activities of WikiLeaks.
He denies the allegation against him and has been offering to be interviewed at the embassy.
Chief prosecutor Ms Isgren will be present at the interview and has said that providing Mr Assange gives his consent, a DNA sample will also be taken.
The results of the interview will be reported from Ecuador to the Swedish prosecutors in a written statement.
After this report, the prosecutors will take a view on the continuation of the investigation.
Swedish police inspector Cecilia Redell was also due to be present.
Ecuador ambassador Carlos Ortiz and one of Mr Assange's lawyers, Per Samuelson, were at the embassy for the interview.
A small group of supporters stood opposite the embassy, holding up banners calling for the WikiLeaks founder to be freed.
A statement on behalf of the Swedish prosecutors said: "As the investigation is ongoing, it is subject to confidentiality. This confidentiality also applies according to Ecuadorian legislation for the investigative measures conducted at the embassy. Therefore, the prosecutors cannot provide information concerning details of the investigation after the interview."
Swedish Director of Prosecution Marianne Ny, who is responsible for the investigation, said: "I welcome the fact that the investigation can now move forward via an interview with the suspect."
As the interview got under way, Mr Assange's cat sat in a window looking at the dozens of Assange supporters and media gathered outside. The cat has its own Twitter feed.
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A 25-year-old Canberra man went on trial on Monday in the ACT Supreme Court over the alleged rape of a 19-year-old woman after they met outside Cube nightclub in Civic.
A man is facing trial this week acused of raping a woman he picked up in Civic. Credit:Jessica Shapiro
Kerry Roy Bye has been charged with four counts of rape, two of sexual assault in the second degree, one count of committing an indecent act and one of unlawful confinement.
The eight alleged offences relate to one woman and a single incident, in the early hours of the Friday morning, on November 13, 2015.
Police have called for witnesses following an attempted robbery of the Raiders Club in Weston early on November 14.
Police said two staff members were approached by a man in the Raiders Club carpark on Liardet Street, Weston about 2.30am Monday morning.
The man threatened the staff members with a weapon, demanding to be let into the club, but the staff were unable to provide the man access to the club and he left on foot.
The offender is described as being about 180cm tall, of an average build and speaking with an Australian accent.
The Australian economy and retail sector will "remain tough in the short term", says the owner of the David Jones department store and clothing brand Country Road.
South African retail giant Woolworths Holdings which paid $2.3 billion for David Jones and Country Road Group in August 2014 also plans to introduce more "trans-seasonal clothing" to cope with unpredictable weather in the southern hemisphere.
Taking into account Country Road Group brands Trenery, Witchery and Mimco, Australia now accounts for 40 per cent of Woolworths' operating profit.
Posting weaker growth for David Jones and falling sales at Country Road Group, the retail giant said its results had been hit by "an extremely warm winter and consequent very high levels of promotion" in both Australia and South Africa.
White working-class women voted for him overwhelmingly. The Harvard Business Review poring over the latest poll results found that "WWC women voted for Trump over Clinton by a whopping 28-point margin 62 per cent to 34 per cent. If they'd split 50-50, she would have won."
Among the vast river of podcasts, hot takes and think pieces I've been mainlining since last week, are contributions from unknowable numbers of women, horrified and shaken to their core that a man who did not simply admit to repeated sexual assaults but privately revelled in his power and freedom to do so, is now the most powerful man in the world.
And yet many Latino and black voters cast their lot in with Trump and, by extension, the alt-right white supremacist movements supporting him from the fringe.
Acknowledging the reality that in America's non-compulsory voting system, any president is unlikely to attract the mandate of more than a quarter of the entire eligible voting population, Donald Trump won because he spoke directly to the working class, which is still about three-quarters white, in a language they understood because they speak it themselves. To sensitive ears it sounds harsh, boorish, ignorant, even bigoted. And at times it is all those things.
But it is the kind of harsh talk you can expect to hear from a class of people, and I mean an economic class, when they feel the system has been stacked against them. It speaks to the animus which delivered the Brexit vote and it can very much sound like hate speech because hatred, not just of the Other, but of one's own wretched and diminishing circumstances, drives it.
Open markets have generated staggering, almost unimaginable wealth, but not for everyone. As the old working class has been fed into the shredders of neoliberal economics, millions, tens of millions and maybe hundreds of millions of men and women around the world, have come to correctly perceive of themselves as losers.
How does this economic dislocation manifest as racial or cultural conflict? Because as our economy has changed, so has the society which it is supposed to support.
It shouldn't be the other way around, a society should not exist to serve an economy, but one of the triumphs of neoliberalism has been to elevate the economic above the social. This plays out in a political conflict like Brexit as a contest over controlling migration.
I'm so very much enjoying the latest level of abuse online since Hillary Clinton was defeated in her run for the US presidency.
It's nearly as if that loss, the loss by the first woman candidate of a major party for president, was a leave pass for new and soaring heights of online trolling and violence. For those of you unfamiliar with the concept of leave pass, it's a permission slip for otherwise unusual behaviour. But I really wish it was unusual.
These men are validated, vindicated and oh so very vindictive.
So, aside from the tedious and somewhat lacking in imagination attacks on the appearance of women who have the hide to air their views on the internet, the use of violent language is out of control. And, as usual, if you report anything to Twitter, very little changes, despite its fake attempts at building safety on their platform with its faux campaign, Position of Strength.
South Australian Premier Jay Weatherill has committed his state to a referendum on whether to host Australia's first nuclear waste dump, saying he will push ahead despite lukewarm public support.
The referendum will effectively be a plebiscite, because it will seek an opinion rather than change the state's constitution.
Mr Weatherill's announcement comes ahead of the Labor state government's formal response to its royal commission on the nuclear industry and after a "citizens' jury" appointed by the government rejected the idea two to one, saying the dump should not be built under any circumstances.
Liberal Opposition Leader Steven Marshall has abandoned his earlier tentative support for the idea, saying the jury verdict rendered it "all but dead and buried".
And on polling, yes that's exactly the same argument made by Tony Abbott last week about being ruled by polls citing the US and Brexit surveys. [ABC] And now my head hurts. Indonesia's police commissioner for human, child and sex trafficking says Malcolm Turnbull's resettlement deal could be a "breath of fresh air" for the people smugglers. [Amanda Hodge, David Crowe/The Australian] Crossbench Senator Nick Xenophon is still considering whether to support the Prime Minister's accompanying legislation banning any asylum seeker who has tried to travel to Australia by boat access to the country for their entire life, including for tourism. [Michelle Grattan/The Conversation] The case under Section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act against News Corp's Bill Leak over his cartoon on indigenous issues is on the verge of collapse. [Andrew Burrell/The Australian]
Two health associations are calling for Australia to introduce a sugar tax. So far the government is rebuffing the idea as lazy policy. [Jodie Stephens/Fairfax] Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce confronted ABC host Virginia Trioli live on-air over her hot-mic comments in which she was reported to have said Trump supporters should be subjected to an IQ test. Trioli said the report was inaccurate but did not say what she actually said despite repeated questioning from Joyce. (3.30 mins in) 3. Trump's and the alt-right The President-elect's decision to appoint Steve Bannon, editor of the alt-right Breitbart News as his chief strategist is sparking a backlash, amid fears it will empower white nationalists. [Elise Viebeck, Katie Zezima/Washington Post]
This came as right wing radio host Alex Jones, of Infowars conspiracy theory fame, released a video claiming Trump called him to thank him for his support during the campaign. [Shane Goldmacher/Politico] Trump "seemed surprised" by the scope of the duties Obama outlined to him would be required as President, reports the Wall Street Journal. Trump officials didn't realise they would have to replace the entire West Wing staff, for instance! Obama realised Trump needed "more guidance" and will subsequently spend more time than he planned helping Trump through inauguration day. [Michael C. Bender, Carol E. Lee] Bernie Sanders has done a round of TV interviews and says he is "deeply humiliated" that his party cannot talk to the working class from where he hails. Asked if he would have beaten Trump had he prevailed over Hillary Clinton in the primaries, Sanders said: "I don't know the answer to that. Maybe, maybe not." [Rebecca Shabad/CBS] President elect Donald Trump with UKIP's Nigel Farage at Trump tower. Credit:Twitter @Nigel_Farage In Britain, 10 Downing says there'll be no "third person," specifically Nigel Farage, in the relationship between President Trump and PM May.
But UKIP donor Arron Banks says May is unwise to shut the door on what's obviously a good relationship between the two. [Rowena Mason, Anushka Asthana/The Guardian] My must-read for today is John Kehoe's fantastic column on Trump and the misreading of his rise in most "elite" quarters. [Financial Review] 4. "Britain First" heard before Jo Cox's murder Jo Cox was shot and stabbed in the street on June 16 and later died. Credit:Getty Images The trial into the murder of Labour MP Jo Cox is underway at the Old Bailey in London.
It's heard evidence that Thomas Mair, who charged with murdering the mother-of-two repeatedly yelled "Britain First" before attacking. Cox's murder came in the final days of the Brexit campaign. [Reuters/Fairfax] 5. Assange questioned When Wikileaks stormed to prominence it and its poster boy Julian Assange quickly became the darling of the left. Now, after his drip-feed of damaging leaks of emails relating to the Clinton campaign, the Australian-born Walkley award winner is the hero of the alt-right. One Nation's Pauline Hanson wants the new President to pardon Assange for his services rendered to last week's election outcome in the United States. [Amy Remenkis/Fairfax] Assange is being questioned at the Ecuadorian embassy in London, his home of four years, by Swedish prosecutors over a rape allegation. [Nick Miller/Fairfax]
And just for fun, my favourite all-time most bizarre Assange thing ever. 6. Supermoon Supermoon over Sydney Opera House, November 2016. Credit:Louise Kennerley Getting up at 1am to assemble Double Shot while in Australia means I was in bed too early to see the supermoon in all its glory last night. Sigh.
Fortunately our amazing snappers were out and about capturing the sight far better than we with our smartphones ever could. [Photo Gallery] And that's it from me today, you can follow me on Facebook for more.
He's the MP previously known for his rebellious streak and home-made lasagne.
But on Tuesday John Barilaro known as 'Barra' to all on Macquarie Street - is the favourite to become NSW's next deputy premier.
It's quite a rise for a man who until a little more than five years ago was working on his door-and-window installation business in Queanbeyan, outside Canberra.
Mr Barilaro won his way onto the front bench in 2014, after being one of the most outspoken critics of the Baird government's electricity privatisation policy it successfully took to the 2015 election.
The stepfather charged over the death of Queensland toddler Mason Jet Lee will make a bid to be released from custody later this week.
William Andrew O'Sullivan, 35, is one of three people charged with the manslaughter of the 21-month-old boy, who was found dead at a Caboolture home, north of Brisbane, on June 11.
William Andrew O'Sullivan, 35, is one of three people charged with the manslaughter of his 21-month-old stepson Mason Lee.
O'Sullivan, who has been in custody since his arrest in late July, has lodged an application for bail in the Brisbane Supreme Court, which is set to be heard on Friday.
AAP
Melbourne Express: Tuesday, November 15, 2016
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Police in riot gear outside the Parkville Youth Justice Centre on Monday. Credit:Justin McManus In the past few hours, a Domino's Pizza driver also delivered four large pizzas to the facility. The Department of Health and Human Services later said "no prisoners got any pizza". Police in full riot gear prepare to enter the Parkville youth centre. Credit:ABC News The dog squad was also at the scene.
The government said the riots had damaged the "operational capacity" of the centre but there were no injuries to staff or inmates. Riot police and dog handlers were called to the Parkville centre last November. Credit:ABC News Ms Mikakos also said that a plan to redevelop the Parkville site would be expedited but would not put a price tag on the project. She said it had become apparent that the infrastructure at Parkville was "letting us down". She also revealed that 80 per cent of the inmates at Parkville were on remand.
Police were called to a "code white" at the troubled Parkville centre about 9pm on Sunday night. It is believed a number of fires were lit and fire crews and paramedics are on standby. The disturbance follows a tumultuous weekend at the centre which caused an estimated $2 million in damages after inmates ripped ceilings and walls apart on Saturday night. Sources told Fairfax Media that some of the inmates involved in Saturday's rioting had been moved to Malmsbury Youth Justice centre and to other units within Parkville. About 20 inmates at the facility were left without beds on Saturday after their cells were trashed.
It is believed inmates destroyed security cameras and ripped ceilings and walls apart. Saturday night's riot came as an inmate at another prison facility attacked four prison officers, inflicting a serious neck injury. Streets in Parkville were blocked as police dealt with the riot at the Youth Justice Centre. Inmates at the juvenile facility destroyed security cameras, computers, and ripped the ceiling and walls apart during the riot, a prison source said.
It's believed the sprinkler system was also severely damaged after the group broke into one of the buildings and found a sledgehammer and shovel. Computers were then thrown through the windows before the group climbed up on the roof and demanded junk food and a phone, the source said. No youth justice officers or inmates were injured during the incident. The riot only ended after police called in the dog squad. The disturbance is believed to have been started by the same youth who triggered another riot on Thursday at the centre.
Community and Public Sector Union spokesman Julian Kennelly said officers had contacted the union about the riot, saying about 20 teenage inmates were involved and that the trouble centred on three residential units. 'They're packed in like sardines' Former commissioner for children Bernie Geary said the problem was that the majority of the children at Parkville were languishing on remand, "packed in like sardines", before they were found guilty of an offence. "The more they treat these young people like adult prisoners the more likely they are to act like adult prisoners," he said. "The system is failing to deal with kids in the justice system." He said for many children a stint on remand encouraged a cycle of re-offending. "There are all these kids there who are angry, anxious, scared. And they don't know what is going to happen to their lives, there are no plans, they have no ambition. They have just been herded in there, waiting for the system to catch up with them."
Mr Geary called on the government to amend the Bail Act to exempt children to ensure children do not spend months on remand while awaiting sentencing. Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos said since rioting began, a number of inmates had been detained and that all were contained within the facility. "There is no threat to the security of the facility being breached. There are no hostages. There are no fires. There have been no staff injuries," she said in a statement. "I want to thank Victoria Police and the youth justice staff for the work that they're doing," she said. "This behaviour is completely unacceptable and staff shouldn't have to put up with it.
"We are developing a range of tougher measures to ensure we put a stop to this." She hinted that she would reveal more information about the "tougher measures" on Monday afternoon. Earlier this month, Ms Mikakos announced that any youth inmate who assaulted a staff member or was involved in any other serious incident would have the matter reported to the parole board. "We are developing a range of tougher measures to ensure we put a stop to this," she said on Sunday. State government minister Richard Wynne condemned the rioting.
"The government is obviously really concerned about the events that occurred at the Youth Justice Centre ... and, in fact, we have just put on 41 staff to ensure that the centre remains secure," Mr Wynne said. Ambulance Victoria spokesman John Mullen said paramedics were initially called to the centre due to reports of youths on a roof and were on standby but were not required. Department of Health and Human Services spokesman Mike Griffin said the department would "thoroughly examine" the circumstances leading up to the incident. "The behaviour of these clients on Saturday was unacceptable and staff shouldn't have to tolerate it," he said. Changes in policy could see the riot reported to the Youth Parole Board and may affect the parole eligibility of those involved.
Troubled times The centre has been plagued by violence in recent times. In September, inmates and staff clashed for three consecutive nights and several juvenile offenders threatened staff and took control of part of the centre. Amelia Banks, who lives nearby, said she heard a "police helicopter and a stream of emergency vehicles driving past with sirens blaring". She raised concerns that the rioting was becoming frequent and worried about the safety of the children and officers inside.
"Whatever happens inside the centre clearly isn't working as the children who are in custody seem to be ready to riot at any given moment," Ms Banks said. Alana Marzuke, who also lives nearby, said she saw up to seven police cars at the scene. In the separate prison incident on Saturday night, four Port Phillip Prison officers were assaulted during a cell search, with one suffering a suspected serious neck injury. The prison officers were searching an inmate's cell after visiting hours to check whether he had received contraband. Paramedics were called to the Truganina prison at 7.10pm and transported the officer, aged in his 30s, to hospital. Ambulance Victoria confirmed the man was in a stable condition.
Mr Kennelly said the inmate was believed to be using drugs. "If he has taken down four officers, we would suspect it was ice or something similar," he said. The prison was placed in lock-down, Mr Kennelly said. Three other prison officers were treated for minor injuries, and capsicum spray was used to subdue the prisoner. He said Port Phillip Prison's contraband detection system was inferior to other prisons around the state and called for the private operator, G4S Australia, to upgrade it.
Mr Kennelly said contraband was rife in Port Phillip Prison, and this, added to overcrowding, was making it difficult and sometimes dangerous for prison officers. "Port Phillip was built 20 years ago to house 600 inmates and it is now housing nearly double that," Mr Kennelly said. Opposition corrections spokesman Edward O'Donohue said the justice system was in crisis. "Further evidence overnight that the justice system in Victoria is in crisis with young offenders rioting at the youth justice centre, while prisoners at Port Phillip are attacking staff and reportedly taking ice," Mr O'Donohue said. Prison operator G4S said it used "robust and proactive" security measures, which were having a positive impact on safety at the facility on a daily basis.
On an average day in Kilmore, at least 1600 trucks travel along Sydney Street, the town's narrow and gently undulating main road, which is lined with some of the oldest buildings in central Victoria.
By that count, almost 6 million trucks have passed through the heart of Kilmore since planning for a town bypass began 10 years ago, and still the community does not know when the road will be built.
Residents say they are in limbo, watching truck traffic grow heavier and congestion worsen on the Northern Highway as tens of thousands of people move into new housing estates inside Melbourne's expanded northern boundary.
The story so far of the Kilmore-Wallan bypass is one of plans made and action not taken.
The latest violent incident at Perth's juvenile detention centre - the 10th in less than two-and-a-half months - has prompted the prison officers' union to blame it on the introduction of a rehabilitation program imported from the US.
Seven detainees were involved - three who jumped out of a window trying to escape - causing an estimated $350,000 to $400,000 trashing their unit on Saturday afternoon.
Banksia Hill is WA's only youth detention centre. Credit:ABC News Perth
Guards used flash bombs and chemical spray to control rioting detainees.
The youths barricaded themselves in, removed bricks from walls and threw them at staff, broke every reinforced glass window and pulled panelling and cabling out of the ceiling, says the Community and Public Sector Union.
London: The man accused of murdering British MP Jo Cox in June was heard saying "this is for Britain" during an attack that was motivated by politics or ideology, a London jury was told at the opening of his trial on Monday.
Thomas Mair, 53, is charged with Ms Cox' murder, which took place a week before Britain's referendum on EU membership and led to the suspension of campaigning for several days. A plea of not guilty was recorded on his behalf at an earlier hearing after he stayed silent when asked to enter his plea.
British lawmaker Jo Cox was killed in June. Credit:AP
Ms Cox, a 41-year-old mother of two young children, was shot and stabbed on the street in the town of Birstall, part of her electoral district in northern England, as she arrived for an advice session with local residents at a library.
Mair was arrested nearby shortly after the killing. He said words to the effect of "it's me" and described himself to police as a political activist, prosecutor Richard Whittam told London's Old Bailey court.
Dramatic pictures have emerged of livestock huddled precariously on tiny islands after a deadly 7.8 earthquake struck New Zealand on Sunday night.
In one image, three cows are stranded on a patch of land after the earth collapsed around them.
The two adult cows and calf barely have room to move and face a sharp drop if they are to attempt to scramble to safety.
The cows were stranded near the small coastal town of Kaikoura, about 180 kilometres north of Christchurch.
A Russian fighter jet crashed in the Mediterranean Sea while trying to land on Russia's sole aircraft carrier, which is stationed off the Syrian coast, the Russian Ministry of Defense said Monday in a statement.
The plane went down several kilometres from the carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov, according to the Ministry of Defense. The pilot ejected and was recovered.
"The health of the pilot is not in danger. The pilot is ready to carry out orders," the Ministry of Defence said.
Earlier in the day, Pentagon officials said they had indications that the Russians had lost a plane, and Fox News - quoting intelligence officials - reported that the aircraft, a MiG-29K, went down after appearing to have mechanical issues shortly after takeoff. The Pentagon tracks Russian and Syrian government aircraft activity with airborne sensors and thermal-imaging satellites.
Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin rang US President-elect Donald Trump on Monday night before the Kremlin issued a statement saying they have agreed to work towards "constructive cooperation", including on fighting terrorism.
Mr Putin and the billionaire vowed to establish a new relationship between their two countries based on "mutual respect", the Kremlin announced, and they agreed to "assess the current unsatisfactory state of bilateral relations", develop trade and economic ties and establish joint efforts to fight international terrorism.
Agreeing to stay in regular contact by phone, and to arrange a face-to-face meeting soon, Mr Putin wished Mr Trump "success in the implementation of the pre-election program, and noted his willingness to build a partnership dialogue with the new administration on the principles of equality, mutual respect and non-interference in the internal affairs of each other".
Mr Trump said after the call he was looking forward to "a strong and enduring relationship with Russia".
Latest News Broker backs government schemes to help first-home buyers Single parents can secure property with 2% deposit
NAB to lift variable mortgage rates The change will take effect next week
Australians are missing out on $1.68 billion by failing to switch mortgages, a new study by Heritage Bank and the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) has found.While 67% of those surveyed recognised the importance of seeking the best deal on their home loan, only a third of respondents actually made the switch. Those that did move to a more affordable mortgage collectively saved around $718 million.The main barrier for borrowers is the perception that it is too difficult to switch, Jane Calder, general manager of marketing at the Toowoomba-based Heritage Bank, told Australian Broker.The survey found that around a third of people think it is too much trouble to switch and a further 28% think that the rewards are just not worth the time and effort, she said.That's despite people being able to save up to $3,000 a year on their home loan which adds up to a lot of money over the life of a mortgage. Brokers need to make sure people understand that switching is not that difficult and is definitely worth the effort.Calder said that Heritage had taken a number of steps which made it easier for borrowers to change home loans.Our staff are trained in what they can do to make the process easier, and are experienced in refinancing so they know how to make the process as smooth and simple as possible.We're also doing what we can to educate people about the benefits of looking around for the best deal on a home loan, the fact that it is relatively simple, and that the rewards are definitely worth the effort.
Latest News Broker backs government schemes to help first-home buyers Single parents can secure property with 2% deposit
NAB to lift variable mortgage rates The change will take effect next week
A delegation from the Mortgage & Finance Association of Australia ( MFAA ) has held a series of talks with key government stakeholders in Canberra.Led by MFAA chairman Cynthia Grisbrook and a representation of aggregators, the meetings are part of an ongoing initiative by the Association to advocate on behalf of the broking industry to the Federal Government.Accompanying Grisbrook were Mark Hewitt of Australian Finance Group AFG ), Sam White of Loan Market Stephen Moore of Choice, Andrew Rasby or Vow/Yellow Brick Road and John Flavell of Mortgage Choice The group held meetings with Meghan Quinn, head of the Financial Services Division of The Treasury and the chief of staff of the Minister for Revenue and Financial Services, Kelly ODwyer.A follow-up meeting was also held with Senator Katy Gallagher, Shadow Minister for Small Businesses and Financial Services.Both meetings were extremely positive, and both Ms Quinn and Senator Gallagher appreciated the time the MFAA took to explain the benefits of the mortgage broking industry to competition in the financial services sector, Grisbrook told Australian Broker.During the meetings, the delegation offered the perspectives of wholesale mortgage brokers and the franchisor segment of the industry, she said.Quinn will ultimately prepare advice for the Federal Government on how it should respond to the ASIC report on broker remuneration while ODwyer will shape those recommendations and determine what will be put to cabinet for final government approval.We talked through the nature of our business in depth, why current remuneration structures are appropriate and serve consumers interests, and how they provide an essential and accessible financial service to all Australians in a competitive and ethical way, Grisbrook said.During the meeting, the delegation talked about the role and structure of aggregators in the mortgage lending value chain, she told Australian Broker.The meeting was extremely productive and will hopefully position the industry well in advance of the release of the ASIC report into mortgage broker remuneration.Grisbrook added that she was also happy with her meeting with Gallagher which was arranged to introduce the Shadow Minister to the MFAA.This meeting provided an opportunity to emphasise to the Opposition the importance the mortgage broker sector holds in the small business community and to emphasise the need to preserve current remuneration arrangements, she said.These meetings are another demonstration of the MFAAs determination to represent all of our members to federal decision-makers so our voice is heard theyre an effective way to present our interests to those who matter in the policy environment.Quinn and Gallagher are also keen to meet with the MFAA again once the ASIC remuneration review has been released to discuss proposed policy responses, Grisbrook told Australian Broker.
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Its Elmos World or else!
The cheery, smiling face of iconic red Sesame Street muppet Elmo hides a dangerous, power-hungry despot in a mostly-Spanish language play opening at the Bushwick Starr on Nov. 17. Furry! La Furia! tracks the life of a panhandling Elmo impersonator in Times Square, fighting for dominance among his fellow costumed characters. The fall from hardworking entertainer to violent hoodlum is a classic American tale, said the shows creator.
It starts from a really sincere and kind of survivalist mentality of maintaining your family and then it gets a little out of control, said Bushwick writer and director William Burke. It ultimately becomes a classic American crime story where he becomes too drunk with power.
The play centers on street peddler El, who dresses as Elmo to hustle money from tourists and provide for his sick son. El treats his Times Square turf as a battle ground, using Sun Tzus combat strategy guide The Art of War to stave off would-be Elmo insurgents.
Burke was inspired by a newspaper story about a man in a Cookie Monster suit who stabbed a rival Cookie Monster in a turf war. The bizarre crime sparked Burkes interest in the subculture of costumed street peddlers who pose with tourists and then demand cash in popular spots such as Times Square and Coney Island.
The kid-friendly appearance of the figures can make it easy to overlook their aggressive tendencies, said Burke.
Its easy to make it cartoonish, but when you go up there its quite disarming because there are all these cartoon characters, but theyre people who are really just trying to make a living and that can be totally respectable or it can get violent, he said.
An English version of the play was presented in Clinton Hill in 2013, but for this production it was translated into Spanish, in part by the actor who plays El, Modesto Flako Jimenez. The show will include screens with English subtitles so that non-Spanish speakers can follow along. Many of the real people in those costumes are Spanish-speaking immigrants, so using their language makes the show more realistic, and opens it to a broader audience, said Burke.
I thought it would be really compelling to do something in that language and a lot of the poetry translates really well into Spanish, said Burke. It struck me as a good way to put new life into it and connect to new audiences.
Furry! La Furia! at the Bushwick Starr [207 Starr St. between Wyckoff and Irving avenues in Bushwick, (917) 6239669, www.thebu shwic kstar r.org ]. Nov. 1719, 2122, 2526 at 8 pm; Nov. 20 at 3 pm.
Reach reporter Caroline Spivack at cspiv ack@c ngloc al.com or by calling (718) 2602517. Follow her on Twitter @carolinespivack.
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Phillies make history: Five homers off Astros starter in Game 3 win
McCullers, pitching in his first World Series game since 2017, became the first pitcher in postseason history to give up five home runs in a game.
Yardley Friends Meeting at 65 N. Main Street in Yardley will host the documentary Organic Roots on Friday, November 18 at 7 p.m. Join director Al Johnson for a showing of this film followed by a discussion of the last 50 years of this movement. Organic foods are part of our life today and a tool in our concern for...
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October 31, 2022
Buddy TV
In November, there are hundreds of new and returning TV showsit can be overwhelming to try and choose what to watch. That's why we've selected some of the best options...
In the fourth episode of The Walking Dead season 7, Service, we finally check back in with Team Family in Alexandria just as Negan drops by for an early visit. This episode takes an in-depth look at how many of the characters are dealing with the new world order under Negan, and two of those characters make some impressive decisions.
4 Ways The Walking Dead Made Dwight More Interesting in The Well >>>
Negan Comes A-Callin
As the episode begins, Michonne wakes up and prepares for the day. She retrieves a rifle she has hidden in the fireplace and quietly leaves the house, trying not to disturb anyone. Alas, Rick is already up and sees her leave with the gun.
Michonne heads out into the woods for some target practice, which she clearly needs, as she fires multiple shots but doesnt hit the one walker coming at her. She finally gives up and takes it out with her weapon of choice. We then see that the only thing Michonne managed to hit with those many shots was a poor, unsuspecting deer. (Am I the only one surprised that there are any deer left at this point? Between the walkers and people out hunting for food, how did this deer survive for so long?)
Back in Alexandria, Rosita and Spencer are about to go on a supply run when Negan and his people arrive. It hasnt been a week yet, so Negan is early. Spencer opens the gate and then acts like he doesnt know who Negan is. Negan is offended but still kills a walker that approaches the community. Rick lets Negan in, and Negan makes him hold Lucille. Rick is surprised to see Daryl with the Saviors, though Daryl is clearly still a prisoner. Daryl can barely look at Rick, and when Rick attempts to talk to Daryl, Negan shuts that right down. Negan then gets uncomfortably close to Rosita, but Rosita ends their brief stand-off by walking away.
Negan sends his people to check out the houses to see what Rick and Company have to offer. Rick tries to explain that they have Negans half of their supplies sorted, but Negan says he gets to choose what he takes. Negan then tells Rick to show him around.
While Rick is dealing with Negan, Rosita and Spencer are preparing to leave when Dwight stops them. He strips them of their guns, their water and even takes Rositas hat. He says he wants them to go get Daryls motorcycle. He also tells them not to take too long getting back.
(I suspect that anyone who felt sorry for Dwight in the previous episode is back to disliking him now. At this point, I think the only thing that could turn me around on him is if he took out Negan and all his top guys by himself.)
Negan Takes the Communitys Guns
Negan is just delighted by the idyllic Alexandria Safe Zone. As his people start loading up mattresses and other furniture, one of the Saviors presents Negan with the camcorder that Deanna used to tape all her interviews. Negan watches Ricks initial interview and remarks that the guy on the tape is not someone Negan wouldve messed with. Luckily for him, Rick isnt that man anymore.
Negan then asks about Maggie, aka the sick girl that Negan realizes was married to Number 2. He explains his interest in her in gross detail, but Father Gabriel of all people actually comes to the rescue. Gabriel somehow thought ahead and dug a fake grave to make it seem like Maggie didnt survive her pregnancy complications. Negan is disappointed, as he was going to ask Maggie to join him at The Sanctuary. Negan and Rick then hear a gunshot, and Negan is not pleased.
Negan finds Carl holding some of the Saviors at gunpoint because they are taking all of the communitys medicine. Negan is impressed with Carls courage but tells him he cannot have Carl threatening him or his people. He offers to prove how serious he is, and Carl finally backs off. Carls stunt with the gun reminds Negan of just how many guns Ricks community has. Negan decides that he cannot allow that, so he wants Rick to turn over all their guns.
Rick takes Negan to the armory, where he meets Olivia. Olivia says she keeps track of all their guns and supplies. While Olivia takes Negans men to get the guns, Negan tells Rick that he will not be taking any of Alexandrias food since they have so little and they cannot work for Negan if they starve to death. Negan wants Rick to thank him for letting them keep their food rations, but Rick remains quiet.
Negan asks if Rick has any guns hidden away, and Rick says theyre all there. Alas, that is not true. One of the Saviors checks the inventory and realizes that two guns are missing. Since Olivia is in charge of the inventory, Negan blames this loss on her and lets Rick know that if he doesnt find those missing guns, Olivia will die.
Rick brings his people together and tells them to hand over the guns. It is clear that not all of the Alexandrians are okay with submitting to Negan, but Rick says that theres no way around it. Rick tells them, Im not in charge anymore. Negan is.
Eventually, Rick realizes that Spencer is the person most likely to have stashed the missing guns. He breaks into Spencers place and starts searching it. During this search, Rick has a chat with Father Gabriel in which Gabriel tries to give Rick hope. Gabriel thinks they will get through this and find a way forward. He has faith in their people and he has faith in Rick. Rick thanks Gabriel for coming up with the ruse of Maggies death. After their chat, Rick finds a vent in the floor of Spencers home. Hidden in the vent are stolen supplies and the missing guns. Ricks relief at finding the guns is palpable.
Negan Gets What He Wants
Before handing over the guns, Rick sees one of the Saviors taunting Enid about the green balloons shes been keeping in memory of Glenn. Carl is clearly upset that Rick didnt step in when the Savior was bothering Enid. Instead, Ricks gives Negan the missing guns. Though Negan is pleased that everything is sorted, he tells Rick that he needs to get all of his people on board with the way things work now. If he doesnt, theyll have to go back to square one.
Negan is finally ready to leave when Rick spots Michonne. He asks Negan for a minute, and Negan eventually grants his request. Rick goes to Michonne and tells her that he knows she has the rifle. He asks her to hand it over because they need to give it to Negan. Michonne tries to argue with him, but Rick says that if the Saviors learn that she has it, someone will die. Rick doesnt want to lose anyone else. Michonne begrudgingly gives him the rifle, and Rick hands it over to Negan. Negan is very happy that Rick is reading the room and getting the message.
Since Rick and his people proved they can follow Negans rules, Rick asks Negan if Daryl can stay. Negan decides to let Daryl make up his mind, but when given the opportunity to speak up, Daryl remains silent. (I assume this is because Daryl knows Negan well enough by now to realize that Negan has a price for everything and Daryl doesnt want any of his friends to pay that price.) With that settled, Negan tells Rick that theyll be coming back soon, and if Ricks people dont have something interesting for them, someone will die.
Negan is pleased with how everything has worked out, but he wants to hear those two magic words before leaving. Rick finally says, Thank you, and Negan makes a comment that comic fans are sure to recognize. (Quite a bit of Negans dialogue is this episode is lifted right out of the comics.) Before heading out, Negan turns his back on Rick to kill another walker, giving Rick the perfect opportunity to take him out. Alas, Rick doesnt take it, and the Saviors finally leave.
Quiz: Which TV Vigilante Are You? >>>
Rosita Steps Up
Rosita and Spencer head back to where they last saw Daryls motorcycle. Its still hidden in the bushes where Daryl left it. While Spencer retrieves the bike, he starts complaining about how everything thats happened is Ricks fault, but they all have to live with the way things are now. Rosita ignores him and heads off into the woods. (Even I might brave the walker-filled woods to get away from that guy.)
No thanks to Spencer, Rosita ends up taking out quite a few walkers in order to get one single gun. You see, Rositas absolutely furious at what the Saviors did to those she cared about, and she wants to fight back. Alas, the gun doesnt have any bullets, so her efforts seem rather pointless.
When they get back to Alexandria, Dwight is happy to take Daryls motorcycle off their hands. He doesnt return their guns, but he does give Rosita back her hat. He also lets poor Daryl know that he can have his bike back as soon as he says the word. Thanks to the previous episode, we all know exactly which word, or name, Daryl refuses to say.
Rick Opens Up to Michonne
After Negan and the Saviors leave, Rick confronts Spencer about hoarding the guns and supplies. Instead of apologizing for stealing from the community, Spencer just cops an attitude. He even goes so far as to call out Rick for getting Glenn and Abraham killed. For the first time all episode, we get a glimpse of the old Rick as he tells Spencer that if he says anything like that to him again, he will break his jaw.
Rosita also confronts Spencer about the guns. She is pissed that he let her go to such extremes to get one gun when he had two stashed away back home. Spencer talks a lot of crap about not trusting Rick and then says she was right that this doesnt have to be their life. (Heres hoping it wont be Spencers life much longer because someone will take him out.)
Back home, Rick is putting together some semblance of a bed now that the Saviors took most of their mattresses. Michonne tries to talk to Rick about fighting back against the Saviors, but Rick says they wouldnt stand a chance against the Saviors numbers. Michonne suggests teaming up with The Hilltop, but Rick still thinks the odds would be in Negans favor. Rick says they have to play by Negans rules and hopefully get some kind of life.
In one of the best moments of the episode, Rick then confides in Michonne about his past. He tells her about Shane and his relationship with Lori. He also tells her that he knows Shane is Judiths father. Rick says Judith is his daughter and he loves her, but he had to accept that he isnt her father. Rick says there were some things he just had to accept in order to keep everyone alive. Michonne tells him it is not his fault when people die, but Rick believes it is. Rick tells her they all have to accept this life now, and Michonne promises to try.
Alas, I doubt Michonne will want to try after what she sees when she goes out beyond the walls again. Not far from Alexandria, Michonne finds the burning remains of the communitys mattresses. (I hope this snaps Michonne into action and she starts looking for a way to fight back against Negan.)
In the episodes final scene, we see Rosita turn up on Eugenes doorstep with a shell casing. Since she still has that one gun, she asks Eugene to make her a bullet. (Have I mentioned how happy I am with Rositas scenes in this episode? Heres hoping the writers continue to give her an actual storyline instead of wasting her on the sidelines.)
What did you think of this episode of The Walking Dead? Are you glad we finally checked back in with Team Family? What did you think of Ricks behavior in this episode? Were you pleased to see Gabriel and Rosita stepping up? Do you think Michonne will go after Negan now, and if so, who will she turn to for help? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
The Walking Dead season 7 airs Sunday nights at 9/8c on AMC. Want more news? Like our Facebook page.
(Image courtesy of AMC)
UB again ranked among the nations top universities in hosting international students
While the election season has raised questions about America's commitment to diversity, UB recognizes the many benefits we derive from a diverse faculty and student body. Our international students contribute to that diversity in a vital, impactful way.
BUFFALO, N.Y. The 2016 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange, released today in Washington, D.C. by the Institute of International Education (IIE), announced that for the 14th straight year, UB is among the top U.S. institutions hosting international students.
UBs total of 7,026 international students for the 2015-16 academic year places UB third in New York State, behind only New York University and Columbia and ahead of all other SUNY institutions. UB has a total enrollment of about 29,000 students.
International students at UB hail from 115 different countries. The largest numbers come to the university from China, India, South Korea, Canada, Malaysia and Iran.
While the election season has raised questions about America's commitment to diversity, UB recognizes the many benefits we derive from a diverse faculty and student body. Our international students contribute to that diversity in a vital, impactful way, said Stephen Dunnett, vice provost for international education at UB.
New York State, with a total international enrollment of 114,316 students, is second among the 50 states for international student enrollment, according to the report. The figure represents an increase of 7.1 percent over last year.
In 2015-16, the number of international students enrolled in U.S higher education also increased by 7.1 percent, to 1,043,839, topping one million for the first time. International students now represent just over 5 percent of the more than 20,000,000 students enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities.
An increasing number of students are crossing the globe to gain practical, international experience that they can apply in their careers and life in a global society, said Dunnett.
For example, Devashish Agarwal is in his junior year at UB, majoring in computer science with a business minor. From Agra, India, Agarwal chose UB for dual reasons: I wanted a school that offered scholarships and is very well-rated in the major rankings, he said.
UBs size has allowed me to go out of my comfort zone, meeting people from around the world. That should be helpful in a career in technology management.
Ling Zhai, a graduate student from China whos studying foreign and second language education, was attracted to UBs size and language programs. I wanted an opportunity to do research, she said. I am involved in a project that is about growing multi-lingualism in early childhood three and four-year olds, she said.
I am finding UBs diversity to be a perfect fit in that area. You can hear many different languages just walking down the halls. Its like a small United Nations.
Diversity was also high on Jin Kims list.
I heard about UB from my uncle, said Kim, a senior chemical engineering major from Seoul, South Korea. Then when I was attending a community college in Washington state, a friend of mine came here.
I was looking for a big university, one that was very diverse. One of my favorite things to do at UB is to go to one of the churches in the community, with a large group of people all from different countries. It is wonderful.
The Association of International Educators (NAFSA) has stated that the economic contributions of international students are in addition to the cross-cultural benefits to classrooms, campus life and communities that can be seen and felt each day.
Some of these contributions include:
Increasing global experience at U.S. colleges and universities, something now increasingly crucial to success in all fields.
Contributing billions of dollars in economic impact, along with making invaluable academic and cultural contributions.
Supporting U.S. innovation through science and engineering coursework, making it possible for U.S. colleges and universities to offer these courses to U.S. students.
Creation and support of jobs by international students spending in higher education plus sectors such as accommodation, dining, retail, transportation and telecommunications.
According to the Open Doors report, the numbers of international students at institutions across the U.S. relying on personal and family resources as their primary source of funding rose to 66.5 percent a slight increase over 2014-15. U.S. colleges and universities also remained a primary source of funding for international students, at 17 percent, followed by 7.4 percent from a foreign government or university.
The Open Doors Report is published annually by the IIE in partnership with the U.S. State Departments Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. For more data, infographics and resources on the 2016 report, visit http://www.iie.org/ Open-Doors.
The 2016 Open Doors report was released on the occasion of the 17th annual celebration of International Education Week, a joint initiative of the U.S. State Department and the U.S. Department of Education.
Saniflo UK says its 2016 Building better bathrooms roadshow has been so successful that it will take to the road again in 2017 visiting new venues with new products.
This year, the purpose-built roadshow truck took in 80 venues in England, Wales and Ireland from May through to October with more than 600 installers and builders visiting the truck in England and Wales, and more than 220 installers visiting in Ireland, where they chatted with the Saniflo technical and sales teams who were on hand to answer questions and discuss how installers can improve their earnings by fitting Kinedo cubicles.
A direct result of the roadshow has been an increase in the number of Kinedo showroom displays being ordered, and excellent feedback from attendees including showroom and merchant staff who were taught how to build the Kinedo shower cubicles.
The sessions featured installation demonstrations of the Kinemagic Design shower cubicle and product showcases of the latest Kinemagic Serenity cubicle and a customisable Kineduo shower bath.
Ann Boardman, Saniflo UK customer services and marketing manager, said: Were delighted with the feedback and results of the Saniflo Building better bathrooms roadshow. Our hands-on approach has led to a direct increase in showroom displays of the Kinedo shower cubicles. Visitors were able to see for themselves just what a valuable business proposition Kinedo shower cubicles offer. Industry professionals are realising that specifying Kinedo shower cubicles means they can boost their income while offering their customers a swift and hassle-free showering solution without the need for grout or silicone.
Plumb-It managing director Brian Cooper, who was also delighted with the Saniflo roadshow, added: The Saniflo roadshow has really helped to get installers on board with Kinedo shower cubicles and this is vital as theyre the ones who have contact with the end user. Im convinced that as more installers become aware of Kinedo shower cubicles and just how convenient they are, sales of the shower cubicles will continue to grow.
Alibaba-backed mobile ecommerce player put out an ad on the front pages of newspapers last week congratulating Indian prime minister Narendra Modi for taking the boldest decision in the financial history of independent India.
Healthcare group has plans to invest Rs 1,400 crore over the next couple of years for expansion, a top company official said here on Monday.
Moreover, the company is all set to come up with the modern Proton therapy at its Chennai facility for the treatment of cancer patients in near future.
"We have lined up an investment of Rs 1,400 crore over next couple of years and the investment would be made in the opening of new hospitals and expansion of already existing healthcare centres," Chairman Prathap C Reddy told reporters here.
He was speaking at the inauguration of a super-speciality tertiary care hospital by the group at Navi Mumbai.
"We are looking at having our own hospital at Guwahati in North-East and we have already acquired land in Jaipur for the setting of a hospital in future," he said.
Talking about the forthcoming Proton therapy at its Chennai facility, he said, "work has already begun on the setting up of the Proton therapy at the group's Chennai facility and we hope that it would become operational over next one-and-half years' time."
"Currently this facility was available only in two countries like China and Japan and India will become the third country to have this facility for treatment of cancer patients," Apollo Hospital's managing director Suneeta Reddy said.
"We are also looking at adding oncology facility at the group's already existing hospitals at places like Vizag and Bhubaneshwar," she added.
Rating agency has cut the rating for loans given by banks to Tata Teleservices Ltd (TTSL) from A to A-, owing to lower than expected improvement in the financial risk profile.
Future Consumer, food and fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) arm of the Future Group, announced it was getting into the cash and carry (wholesale) business in a joint venture (JV) with the UK-based Booker Group to expand and develop Booker India.
The company, with a stated goal of Rs 1 lakh crore in annual turnover by 2021, made this announcement in a BSE filing.
Booker Group entered India in 2009 and has invested in creating a network of six cash and carry stores that supply food, and related merchandise to small retailers and enterprises in Maharashtra and Gujarat. It operates out of four locations in Mumbai and one each in Pune and Surat.
Booker Group is the UKs leading food wholesaler, offering branded and private label goods to a little over 900,000 business customers independent convenience stores, grocers, leisure outlets, pubs, restaurants. The Group comprises Booker Wholesale, Makro, Booker Direct and Booker India, among others.
Future Consumer offers a range of brands and products that includes Tasty Treat (processed food), Nilgiris (dairy & bakery), Sunkist (beverages), Swiss Tempelle (personal care), Kara (beauty-on-the-go) and CleanMate (home care). These will also now be distributed through the Booker India network.
Booker India has developed one of the lowest cost distribution networks for products through its cash and carry network in India. We are now happy to join hands to leverage their expertise in engaging with small, neighbourhood retailers and reach out to them with the brands and products being developed by our organisation, said Kishore Biyani, vice-chairman, Future Consumer.
Future Consumer has dedicated manufacturing facilities at India Food Park, Tumkur (Karnataka), with extensive sourcing and processing facilties across the country. The company also operates JVs with Migros Group from Switzerland and Aussie Oats in Sri Lanka, and a licensing partnership with Sukist Growers from California, USA.
Its products are distributed through multiple retail chains such as Big Bazaar, EasyDay, Heritage, Nilgiris, Aadhaar, Annapurna Bhandaar, Metro Cash & Carry and Tesco Star Bazaar, beside other channels.
Metro Cash and Carry and Walmart India plan to expand their base in India. Metro AG wants to double wholesale stores in the country to 50 by 2020. Walmart plans to add around 50 stores in the next five years.
The board of Tata Global Beverages will meet on Tuesday and is likely to discuss the ouster of Chairman Cyrus Mistry and its impact on the companys operations.
British insurer said on Monday that India's insurance watchdog had "expressed reservations" in accepting the current deal terms for the purchase by its Indian joint venture of Max Life Insurance.
In August HDFC Insurance Co (HDFC Life) agreed to buy India's Max Life Insurance in an all-stock deal to create the nation's top private life insurer valued at nearly $10 billion.
The deal is expected to kick-start consolidation in India's lucrative insurance sector where relatively few people hold insurance policies despite the country being the world's second-most populous nation of 1.3 billion.
said that Indian mortgage lender Housing Development Finance Corp, which currently owns a majority of HDFC Life, believes that the scheme of arrangement submitted to Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) complied with all applicable laws.
The companies, which filed an application for IRDAI's in-principle approval for the scheme in September, propose to make suitable representations to the regulator, Standard Life said.
The current terms of the deal involve Max Life being merged into its parent company Max Financial Services, which in turn would combine its entire life insurance business with HDFC Life.
Analysts said regulators were likely to be focusing on the logistics of having an insurer merger with a non-insurer.
The deal is set to give Max Financial Services' shareholders 2.33 shares of HDFC Life for every Max Financial share held.
If it goes ahead, it would also give Standard Life about 24 per cent of HDFC Life while Housing Development Finance Corp will own a 42.5 per cent stake.
Shares in Standard Life were up 1.23 per cent at 368.1 pence at 0923 GMT on the London Stock Exchange. Max Financial Services and HDFC Ltd's stocks did not trade on Monday as Indian markets were closed.
Amidst the standoff between Ratan Tata and his estranged successor Cyrus Mistry, the six independent directors of chose to support the management and board of the company, instead of the chairman.
In Tata Teleservices, Ratan Tatas decision to enter the all-new world of CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) technology-based mobile telephony in 2003 while getting out of Idea Cellular, a GSM-based telecom operator, has hurt the company. Idea Cellular is now Indias third largest telecom company. The Tatas sold their 48.12 per cent stake to their joint venture partner Aditya Birla group in 2006.
Indian IT will need to step up local hiring in the United States and move less work offshore putting a strain on their margins, as gears up to take over as the US President, winning the mandate over his anti-immigrant rhetoric.
This would put additional burden on Indian firms such as Infosys, Wipro and Tata Consultancy Services, who are already facing their worst growth dip in a decade. While these business are getting newer projects in areas such as cloud and digital technologies from clients in the US, the growth is not offsetting the rapid decline in traditional services that contributes four out of five dollars to their revenue.
Emerald Haven Realty Limited (EHRL), the real-estate venture of the TVS Group and known as TVS Emerald, is in talks with investors to raise funds, according to a senior management official.
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A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned from his three-day trip to Japan, he made an emotional appeal to the people asking them to give him 50 days time and said, "I will give you the India you desired".
Tens of thousands of Hong Kong residents join a rally outside the Legislative Council complex to show support for the NPC Standing Committee's interpretation of the Basic Law on Nov 13. Roy Liu /China Daily
Hong Kong residents are increasingly realizing the dangers of tolerating the advocacy of "independence" for the special administrative region.
This was evident in the rally on Sunday, which unambiguously demonstrated the general public's strong endorsement of the recent interpretation of the Basic Law by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress.
In the latest show of their abhorrence for separatism, some 40,000 Hong Kong residents took to the street on Sunday to voice their support for the interpretation of Hong Kong's Basic Law, which makes it clear and explicit that public officers who fail to take the oath of office sincerely and solemnly shall be disqualified, and that those who make a false oath or subsequently engage in acts violating the oath bear a legal responsibility.
Since two separatist legislators-elect openly promoted their separatist ideas during their swearing-in for the Legislative Council four weeks ago, more than one million people have signed an online petition demanding the immediate disqualification of the two as lawmakers.
And over the past few weeks, a host of civil and business organizations in the SAR have condemned the behavior of these two agitators, as well as that of a few other "pro-independence" lawmakers with numerous co-signed statements and advertisements placed in newspapers.
A resdient filed a judicial review case with the High Court on Thursday, seeking to disqualify another eight lawmakers who failed to take their oath of office in a way that complies with the legal requirements as defined by the National People's Congress Standing Committee in its interpretation of Article 104 of the Basic Law.
Hong Kong people have a strong reason to speak out. They are fully aware that "Hong Kong independence" is a dangerous delusion.
Hong Kong people understand that "one country" is the premise and basis of "two systems". Attempts to sabotage this premise by denying the former only derail the smooth implementation of the later, which is the foundation of Hong Kong's long-term stability and prosperity.
President Xi Jinping underscored the nation's determination to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity as one country in his Friday speech commemorating the 150th anniversary of the birth of Dr Sun Yat-sen.
The overwhelming majority of Hong Kong residents see no reason to allow a small group of radicals to gamble the overall well-being of Hong Kong society on their losing bet that they would be able to rip the SAR away from the rest of the country.
The Union minister said that 4,000 centres across the country would be established. is the clinical purification of blood, as a substitute for the normal function of the kidney. The minister also mentioned that the government was working to provide free for those below the poverty line. This comes at a time when the government is working on a national policy. The subsidy will be provided by the central government.
At a time when there are endless queues outside and banks to exchange notes and withdraw new currency, crowdsourcing has come to the rescue to ease the common man's plight.
Just as netizens contributed to crowdsource data and help people stranded during Chennai floods, this time around a twitter handle named @WoCharLog has created a website that provides you crowdsourced information about the working and crowd numbers at these
All you need to do is enter the locality in the search box and it throws up the status of ATMs in that area and tells you when it was last updated. You can also update the situation of ATM you know by entering the landmark, bank name and the number of people waiting at the ATM.
Although its very difficult to say how accurate the result is, people applauded and thanked the creator for the effort @WoCharLog has put in.
Also, atmfinder.cms.com, a website of ATM network management company CMS, gives details of ATM found in different cities in India. But this is not as comprehensive as the atmsearch.in and doesn't show real time or current picture of the ATM nearby.
Congress mouthpiece Herald may soon be launched in an online format, its newly appointed Editor-in-Chief Neelabh Mishra said on the eve of the birth anniversary of the newspaper founder Jawaharlal Nehru.
A week of climate change negotiations at threatened the future of the Adaptation Fund as developed countries blocked talks on housing it in the post-2020 regime under Paris Agreement. The fund, set up in 2001 under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change is meant to provide developing and poor countries monies to adjust to inevitable climate changes.
The Pakistani military said on Monday that seven of its soldiers had been killed in firing by Indian troops along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir.
"Seven soldiers embraced 'shahadat' at the LoC in Bhimber sector in cross-fire LoC violation by Indian troops late last night," said the Inter-Services Public Relations, the army's media wing.
The LoC divides the Indian and Pakistan parts of Kashmir.
It said Pakistani troops responded to India's "unprovoked firing" and "targeted Indian posts effectively".
Pakistani authorities last week lodged protests with India and the UN military observers over the targeting of civilian population by Indian troops.
Pakistan says the civilian death toll in Indian shelling has risen to at least 25 in the past few weeks.
A 'Shariat protection conference' held at a nearby town decided to fully co-operate with All India Muslim Personal Law Board to 'safeguard' the Shariat act.
Various resolutions were passed, one among which said the constitutionally approved Shariat act for Muslims in matters like marriage, divorce, property rights and Wakf Board administration will be strictly followed and 'safeguarded'.
Another said it would oppose the at all costs, a press release from the Shariat Protection conference, held at nearby Palyamkottai, said.
The state-level conference was held under the aegis of various Muslim organisations.
Scholars and clergymen from various Muslim sects have opposed the Law Commission's consultation on triple talaq and (UCC).
The AIMPLB, while announcing the decision to boycott the Law Commission's consultation, had criticised the Narendra Modi government for allegedly trying to divert attention from its "failures" by raising the issue of UCC.
A Pune based economic think tank, ArthaKranti, which claims to have suggested to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to demonetize Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes, wants the government to abolish income tax and 56 other taxes and replace it by a Banking Transaction Tax, or BTT, of 2 per cent on earnings.
Ever since Prime Minister Narendra Modi scrapped the old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, How to convert into white money has been trending on Google, with many Indians turning to the search engine giant for an answer.
There could be sops, after the pain. Sensing the growing frustration among the middle classes and the poor in India over dry ATMs and long queues at banks after demonetisation of big notes, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is learnt to be sending out feelers to finance minister Arun Jaitley to relax the income-tax slabs, even if marginally, in the Union Budget. "This would help consolidate the BJP position among the salaried class," a source said.
Indias big rural economy, which after two years of distress was on a slow path to recovery on the back of a favourable monsoon and bumper harvest, has been hit hard by the Centres sudden decision to demonetise high-value currency.
November 15 will be the last day for jewellers to deposit old high-value currency notes, sources told Business Standard as the government cracks down on traders to prevent the laundering of black money.
ALSO READ: The great Indian jugaad: How some are beating the Rs 1,000 note ban
Chaotic scenes outside banks, automated teller machine (ATMs) kiosks and regional offices of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) continued on Sunday, as people queued up hoping to get some cash.
With over 70 per cent of Odisha's gram panchayats bereft of a bank branch, chief minister Naveen Patnaik has pressed on the need for mobile banking services in unrepresented regions to cope up with the demonetisation crisis.
In a letter to Union finance minister Arun Jaitley, Patnaik said, "Apart from relaxations in withdrawals for government disbursements like old age pensions which the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has facilitated, I would also request you to request RBI and other banks to urgently provide mobile banking services or to set up temporary counters in unbanked gram panchayats. The state government will provide requisite support and infrastructure for this purpose."
With banks struggling to cope with rush to get alternative currency, the government has extended use of old defunct Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes for paying household utility bills, fuel, taxes and fees and purchases from co-operative stores till November 24.
Prime Minister on Monday hit out at the opposition parties over demonetisation saying the decision was aimed at tackling the menace of black money and that he had the people's mandate for the tough job.
Pune-based economic think tank ArthaKranti, which claims to have suggested to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to demonetise the Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes, wants the government to abolish income tax and 56 other taxes and replace it by a banking transaction tax, or BTT, of two per cent on earnings.
One-third of the worlds population, 2.5 billion people, have no credit score that might give them access to loans. But about a billion people in the developing world do have basic smartphones.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Monday tightened monitoring of depositing old notes and said will have to ensure that the customers use separate pay-in slips for depositing specified bank notes and other legal tender.
Incredible India @ India International Trade Fair 2016
The Union Tourism Secretary, Shri Vinod Zutshi has inaugurated the Ministry of Tourisms Incredible India stand at the India International Trade Fair 2016, today at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
The Incredible India stand located at Hall No. 18 (Stand No.25) aims to nurture the tourism potential of less frequented destinations which are located closer to the popular destinations for attracting domestic visitors. Inaugurating the Incredible India stand the Union Secretary said The stand has been designed with an idea of promoting lesser Known destinations". Domestic tourism continues to be an important contributor to the tourism sector providing much needed resilience. There has been a continuous increase in domestic tourist visits, with the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of domestic tourist visits to all States/UTs from 1991 to 2015 being 13.63 per cent. In 2015, it grew by 11.63 per cent to reach 1431.97 million visits. And there is an encouraging sign for the Inbound Tourism too. Inbound travel to India has increased. Foreign Tourist arrivals in India during the period January- September, 2016 were 6.2 million with a growth of 10.5% as compared to the Foreign Tourist Arrival of 5.6 million with a growth of 4.8% in January-September, 2015 over January- September, 2014. This positive development is expected to continue during remaining period of this year. The Ministry of Tourism is participating in the IITF after a long gap. The attractions of the stand are two Selfie Points with the Taj Mahal and the Valley of Flowers as background.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Chinese President Xi Jinping told Donald Trump in their first conversation that cooperation was the only correct choice for ties between the worlds two largest economies, with the US president-elect promising one of the strongest relationships. Xi told Trump by telephone on Monday that the two powers benefited from working together and needed to coordinate efforts to promote global economic growth, state broadcaster China Central Television reported. The pair agreed to meet soon, CCTV said. China and the USas the worlds biggest developing ...
In line with his hardline immigration stance, President-elect has vowed to immediately deport up to three million undocumented immigrants, saying "we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate".
"What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people, probably two million, it could be even three million, we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate," Trump told CBS News.
"But we're getting them out of our country, they're here illegally," the 70-year-old business tycoon-turned politician said in an excerpt released ahead of broadcast of the interview.
During the election campaign, Trump had warned that those countries which do not accept these illegal immigrants, he would enforce the legal provision of stopping of issuing of visas to people of those countries.
There are an estimated 11 million documented immigrants in the country. Several hundred thousand are believed to be Indian-Americans.
The President-elect said he would take a call on the fate of the rest of the illegal immigrants, after the border is secured.
"After the border is secure and after everything gets normalised, we're going to make a determination on the people that they're talking about who are terrific people, they're terrific people but we are gonna make a determination at that," Trump said.
"But before we make that determination...It's very important, we are going to secure our border," he said in response to a question.
Trump insisted that he is determined to fulfill another campaign promise of building a wall along the Mexican border.
"For certain areas I would, but certain areas, a wall is more appropriate," he said.
"I'm very good at this, it's called construction," Trump said.
Since Trump's election on Tuesday night, the realities of actually building that wall have begun to set in and the Mexican government has publicly reminded him that Mexico will not pay for the wall.
Asked about the wall, Trump transition co-chair Newt Gingrich said the wall was "a great campaign device".
During his election campaign, Trump articulated a strong and tough immigration policy, which was quite opposite to that of his Democratic rival Hillary Clinton, which was based on compassion and providing a pathway to nearly 11 million illegal immigrants.
Late on Tuesday night, as it became clear that Donald J Trump would defeat Hillary Clinton to win the presidential election, a private chat sprang up on among several vice presidents and executives of the social network.
There election of Donald Trump may allow banks to dodge the full impact of global regulators post-2008 crisis crackdown. The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision is racing to complete a revamp of international capital standards by the year-end. The US has pushed for strict rules to protect against future market meltdowns, whereas Europe and Japan want to rein in proposals that could hit banks with billions in costs. Basel Committee members including the US Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank are under enormous industry pressure to soften the rules. Trumps ...
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has urged his US counterpart to revoke an executive order that labelled his country a security threat.
"It is an atrocity that I hope Obama corrects before he leaves office," Maduro said on Sunday, reiterating his government's willingness to improve diplomatic ties with the US.
In a message directly addressing the US head of state, Maduro said, "In spite of the arrogance, aggression and negative legacy, you, President Barack Obama, can garner the admiration and respect of Venezuela, if you have the courage to sign a decree revoking that infamous executive order that claims our beloved country is a threat," Xinhua news agency reported.
The South American nation will also formally request the White House revoke the decree during an upcoming meeting with US Secretary of State John Kerry, so Obama "can leave with a message of peace for Venezuela", said Maduro.
While ties between the two countries have been sour since Venezuela's socialist party first came to power some 15 years ago, the 2015 decree calling the South American country "an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the US", marked a particular low point.
A day after the US presidential election on November 8, Maduro spoke with Kerry to request the two countries establish a "positive agenda" with which to work when the administration of President-elect Donald Trump takes over in January 2017.
According to company sources, from a current ratio of 70:30 between its mining versus power segments, the state enterprise has set a target of moving towards 60:40 ratio even as it looks to add more wind and thermal power capacity.
At a time when availability of fresh lignite and bauxite reserves is strained, state-run Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation (GMDC) is turning towards its power business for increased revenue generation.
"While there is a steady revenue being generated in lignite, with volumes of over 8 million metric tonnes, there are challenges in availability of fresh reserves. On the other hand, our power business is doing better. Hence, in near future, we are looking at over 40 per cent of our revenue coming from our power business," said a company official on condition of anonymity.
The Afghan National Defence and Security Forces (ANDSF) have arrested one of the attackers of German consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif, the provincial capital of Balkh province, in which six people were killed.
The security officials said the arrested suspect was among the three suicide bombers, who had launched a coordinated attack, reports Khaama Press.
A photograph of the attacker was released by the security forces.
On November 10, a vehicle laden with heavy explosives detonated in the vicinity of the German Consulate, which damaged more than 100 homes and shops.
The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, describing it as revenge for recent air strikes in the neighbouring province of Kunduz.
Condemning the attack in strongest words, the UN mission in Afghanistan said "Attacks deliberately targeting the civilian population and violence aimed at spreading terror among civilians may amount to war crimes under customary international humanitarian law.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Shocked by the gruesome murder of Dainik Bhaskar journalist Dharmendra Kumar Singh by unidentified assailants at Amra in Bihar on Saturday, the press fraternity of Arunachal Pradesh has condemned the incident in the strongest terms and urged the Bihar government to deliver justice to aggrieved family at the earliest.
Singh, who was working with a prominent Hindi newspaper, was gunned down by unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants on Saturday morning, making it the second murder of a journalist in the state in the past six months.
In a joint statement issued on Sunday, the Arunachal Press Club (APC), Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) and Arunachal Electronic Media Association (AEMA) expressed deep shock at the killing of Singh who had taken on the powerful local mafias in many occasions through his writings.
The fraternity termed the murder as a cowardly attempt to muzzle down the freedom of speech.
The media fraternity urged the Bihar government to come up with a mechanism to protect scribes in the state so that crusaders of freedom of speech are not cowed down.
"The murder of journalist reflects the law and order situation of a state, it is duty the duty of welfare government of Bihar to protect the press fraternity and ensure safety of all scribes in the state" the press bodies stated in their statement.
It further added that perpetrators should be brought to justice and award exemplary punishment, so that it sends message across.
Expressing solidarity with media fraternity in Bihar as well as with aggrieved family, APC, APUWJ and AEMA stated that courageous and fierce writings of late Dharmendra Kumar Singh will embolden and inspired working journalists across the India. The fraternity further prayed almighty god for eternal peace of departed soul.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In view of the prevailing crisis occurring due to demonetisation drive, the Civil Defence volunteers would be deployed in the capital to felicitate people who have been standing at queues outside banks, said Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday even as the Economic Affairs Secretary Shaktikanta Das announced that a task force is being set up for re-calibration of ATMs to expedite the process of cash transactions.
He said that a special one day session of the legislative assembly has been called on Tuesday where the Delhi government would analyse and discuss about the situation and accordingly take steps to mitigate the present crisis.
"Today we convened an emergency cabinet meeting, where it was decided that we will conduct a one day emergency session will to analyse the situation and accordingly take decisions," Kejriwal said,
"Civil defence volunteers, a part of Delhi government, will be deployed in the state to help people who have been standing in queues with regard to providing refreshments, filling out forms, helping senior citizens and many other things," he added.
Holding Prime Minister Narendra Modi responsible for the present cash crunch, the Delhi Chief Minister said the Centre was unprepared in dealing with the crisis.
"Today Centre announced that the Indian Air Force will be used to carry and distribute currency notes. It shows that government did not have any game plane to tackle the crisis. The government was unprepared in executing its plan. It shows that the government is in a precarious situation," Kejriwal said.
He said that despite Prime Minister Modi's claim that the demonetisation drive would bring sleepless nights to the rich, the 'aam aadmi' (common man), instead, are having sleepless nights standing outside the ATMs.
"Despite the Prime Mister's claim that the rich are having sleepless nights, it seems that the common people have been having sleepless nights. We can see them sleeping outside bank ATMs and its is Prime Minister Modi's friends who are sleeping peacefully,"
"The nation is unable to understand that by curbing 500 and 1000 notes and introducing 2000 notes, how will corruption and black money will get reduced," he added.
Earlier, Das said the task force will have representatives of department of Financial Services and the Ministry of Home Affairs, adding the task force has been instructed to work out a strategy to expedite the whole process of re-calibration of the ATMs so that the disbursement of cash at the field level is substantially improved.
"The banks have been advised to increase the cash holding limit of the banking correspondents to at least 50,000 rupees. In other cases, the banks would be encouraged to increase the cash holding limits beyond 50,000 rupees in appropriate cases. The reach of distribution of cash especially in the rural areas will improve substantially," he added.
Das said to augment this further, the bank correspondents will be permitted by the banks to draw cash multiple times in a single day.
Normal life has been thrown out of gear as long serpentine queues were still visible outside banks to exchange currency notes.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The first woman to fly China's J-10 fighter plane, Yu Xu, was killed in an accident during a routine training flight with the aerobatics team over the weekend.
The engine and the flight data recorder or black box of the two-seater fighter jet J-10 has been recovered at the accident site in Yutian county on Saturday evening, reports the China Daily.
According to an official, the authorities are investigating the cause of the accident.
Two pilots from the Bayi Aerobatic Team of People's Liberation Army's Air Force were conducting a routine flight training on Saturday morning in Tianjin before they were forced to eject from the jet as two jets hit each other.
Witnesses said the impact left a 10-meter diameter and 3-meter deep pit on the farmland at Dayangpu village of Chenjiapu.
The male pilot parachuted to safety. But Yu Xu hit the wing of another J-10 and died. She was at the back seat during the training.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Economic Affairs Secretary Shaktikanta Das has announced that a task force is being set up under the chairmanship of deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for recalibration of ATMs to expedite the process of cash transactions.
"The ATMs which are being recalibrated to dispense 500 rupee notes and 2,000 rupee notes i.e. the new series of 500 rupee notes and the 2,000 rupee notes.to expedite this process as fast as possible a task force is being set up under the chairmanship of deputy governor of the Reserve Bank. It will have representatives of banks as its members," Das told ANI.
Das said the task force will also have representatives of department of financial services and the Ministry of Home Affairs, adding the task force has been instructed to work out a strategy to expedite the whole process of recalibration of the ATMs so that the disbursement of cash at the field level is substantially improved.
"The banks have been advised to increase the cash holding limit of the banking correspondents to at least 50,000 rupees. In other cases, the banks would be encouraged to increase the cash holding limits beyond 50,000 rupees in appropriate cases. The reach of distribution of cash especially in the rural areas will improve substantially," he added.
Das said to augment this further, the bank correspondents will be permitted by the banks to draw cash multiple times in a single day.
"The branch post offices will also be provided with adequate quantity of cash. Cash supply in adequate quantity will be made available in the branch post offices to disburse cash against account balances. There are about 1.3 lakh branch post offices in the country. So, 1.2 lakh banking correspondents and 1.3 lakh branch post offices put together, it works out to 2,50,000 points which will be made additionally available," he added.
The Economic Affairs Secretary stated that micro ATMs will be deployed in large number of areas to dispense cash against debit and credit cards.
"They will be dispensing cash up to the existing limits, which are there for the other ATMs. The weekly limits of withdrawal from bank accounts from Rs. 20,000 has been increased to Rs. 24,000 and the limit of Rs. 10,000 withdrawal per single transaction has been removed," he added.
He said that this would ensure better public convenience and the members of the public do not have to travel to the bank more than once a week.
"The exchange of notes which is currently Rs. 4,000.if you submit old series of 500 and 1,000 rupee notes there was a limit which had been imposed of supplying Rs. 4,000 per transaction. Now, it has been increased to Rs. 4,500. The main intention is to ensure that the smaller denomination currencies are also made available in the hands of the public," he added.
Das said the ATM limits also have been increased to Rs. 2,500 in respect of the recalibrated ATMs.
"ATMs which are recalibrated to dispense new 500 rupee notes or new 2,000 rupee notes, they can dispense 2,500 at a time. The current account entities which are operational will be permitted to draw Rs. 50,000 at a time. The objective behind this is to enable such entities to disburse wages," he added.
He stated that the district central cooperative banks have made a representation about non-availability of adequate cash because of non-receipt of cash from the banks.
"Now, in such cases the instructions have been given to the banks to supply cash to meet the requirements of the district central cooperative banks to dispense cash against balances which are available in the accounts of individuals," he added.
The Economic Affairs Secretary also said it has been decided that all government departments and central public sector undertakings will maximize their e-transactions.
"Wherever possible, e-transactions should be the first option and resort to cash transactions should be made only in rarest of the rare cases. This would also reduce considerable pressure on the cash requirement," he added.
He said that the Reserve Bank of India has advised the National Payments Corporation of India to waive its transaction charges on all transactions which are settled through national financial switch, adding that this facility will be available till December 31.
"The banks are also being advised to waive their charges for various kinds of transactions which go for similar settlements. The annual life certificate which the pensioners are required to submit during the month of November.the time limit for that has been extended till January 15, 2017," he added.
Das further said that there will be separate queues for senior citizens and divyang persons in banks.
"There will be separate queues for people, who are visiting the bank branches for doing transactions against their bank accounts. There will be separate queues in respect of those who are visiting the bank only to exchange the old series of notes for new notes," Das said.
"Currently, the government has given exemptions to certain category of transactions where old series of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 can be accepted. This limit for such exemptions is being extended from November 14 midnight to November 24 midnight," he added.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Expecting fireworks in both Houses during the Winter Session of Parliament starting from Wednesday, with the opposition is planning to target the government on several issues, including demonetisation, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Parliamentary Party Executive will go into a huddle on Monday to chalk out strategy to counter the opposition.
Party brass, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and president Amit Shah, will also attend the meet.
Meanwhile, The Democratic Alliance (NDA) allies will also be meeting today, which will also be attended by the Prime Minister.
With the opposition is set to target the government on issues like demonetisation, Kashmir unrest, and One-Rank One-Pension (OROP), the ruling party is also likely to discuss these issues.
In a clear indication of the party's line in Parliament over demonetisation of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 notes, Shah attacked opposition parties, saying they were against an exercise which has rattled those dealing in black money, fake currency, narcotics and such activities.
The Congress has sought suspension of business on day one of Winter Session to discuss the demonetisation issue.
Leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday said Congress MPs would raise the demonetisation issue under rules 56 and 193 during the Winter Session.
Deputy leader of the opposition in the Rajya Sabha Anand Sharma has already given a notice for the suspension of business under rule 267 of the Rajya Sabha for a discussion on the same issue.
Leader of the opposition in the Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad has also given a notice under rule 267 for discussion on the issue of Kashmir unrest.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Cash-crunch triggered by demonetisation of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 notes is not only causing inconvenience to people in the country, but foreign tourists visiting here are equally troubled as they are unable to use smaller denominations.
"Arriving on the morning of the November 10, and being in Delhi, we found that we were not able to get any money. The hotel had all its cash taken away and as a result they couldn't give us small denominations, which is difficult when you are a tourist walking around and you need public convenience and you want to give tips; we couldn't do any of that. The situation without any Indian money at all was very difficult. People were understanding, and even in some places, they took British pounds from us in order to be able to get over this problem. But, it really is quiet a difficulty. We are entirely reliable on credit cards. Because it's another day, and now we are in Shimla, we find that there are ATMs open.I am hoping that things will get easier," a tourist told ANI.
"It's been a nuisance, we can only use credit cards and debit cards," Juliet, another tourist, said.
Yesterday, foreign tourists visiting Taj Mahal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, were caught off guard as ticket counters refused to accept their 500 and 1,000 rupee notes, and groups of foreigners were seen chipping in with change to buy tickets.
"I cannot buy a ticket because the ticket counter told me that 500 rupee and 1,000 rupee notes do not work here. I don't know how, but I cannot find a way in India", said a Chinese tourist.
Most foreign tourists were also unaware of the government decision and its intricacies. They also faced a problem exchanging currency as with both banks and Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) shut; there was an acute shortage of 100 rupee notes.
Domestic tourists also faced problems.
In a surprise announcement, the Centre withdrew the two of its largest currency notes at the midnight on Tuesday in a bid to flush out money hidden from the taxman.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
With Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaving no stone unturned in attacking the opposition post his government's decision to scrap 500 and 1000 rupee currency notes, the Congress today alleged that the "habitual abuser" must realize that arrogance of power should not surpass the problems faced by people.
Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala lashed out at the Prime Minister and said that it has become his "character and style" to taunt others.
"The Prime Minister is a habitual abuser himself. We respect the Prime Minister and the office he holds. Whatever abuses he may heap, which he continues to do every day on the leaders of the opposition parties, let him mock the entire country. The Prime Minister mocks the entire nation. The other day, he was sitting in Japan and mocked everybody who was getting married, who were not able to arrange their marriages. Such has become the character and style of this minister," Surjewala said.
"The Prime Minister must realize that arrogance of power should not surpass the problems faced by people. Let the Prime Minister mock leaders of the Congress Party.we don't care. But let him not mock the people of this country which he is doing," he added.
The Congress leader further stated that demonetisation is not an issue of an individual political party but an issue wherein the entire country has been plunged in economic anarchy by a dictatorial and autocratic Prime Minister and his government.
"It is our duty to raise and champion the voice of the people in the most befitting fashion so as to highlight and bring this to the attention of the government, which currently in their arrogance of power and numbers is refusing to listen to the voice of reason and the cry and pain of the ordinary persons of this country," said Surjewala.
"We will join our strength in all such voices irrespective of any ideological differences we may have with individual political parties," he added.
Surjewala said that this decision of demonetisation has proved as an obstacle to 125 crore Indians.
"The people are standing in long queues to take out their own money. The common people are facing a lot of hurdles due to this unplanned move. Prime Minister Modi believes he can do what he wants. But he has forgotten that the nation doesn't work according to his will but with the people's consent," Surjewala told a press conference.
"The people, who are standing in queues outside banks and ATMs, are not thieves and neither do they have black money. Will Prime Minister Modi apologise to all those who have lost their lives due to this economic chaos?" he added.
Surjewala alleged that those not standing in queues outside the banks and ATMs at this time are the BJP's "suited booted friends".
"What's the reason that none of the BJP leaders or ministers is standing in the queue when the entire nation is standing to get their money? Doesn't it indicate who actually possesses black money? The account of the BJP must be made public for six months. If the BJP is innocent then everything will come clean," he added.
Accusing the opposition of attempting to scuttle the fight against corruption, Prime Minister Modi earlier in the day vowed that he would never leave the path of truth and integrity while seeking blessings from the nation for this festival of honesty which he hailed as 'mahayagya'.
"This is 'mahayagya'; this is the festival of honesty. I seek your blessings. After Pandit Nehru passed away, many prime ministers came and went but that committee report is still lost in files. Today on Pandit ji's birthday, I pledge to reopen those files, which his party and family Prime Minister's never did. It's my tribute," he said.
The Prime Minister, who has drawn sharp flak from a united opposition post his decision to scrap 500 and 1,000 rupee currency notes, urged all to support his decision and bless him in his war against black or undeclared money.
He invoked the nation's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru on his 127th birth anniversary to take potshots at the Congress for raising objection to his firm decision.
"Pandit Nehru, your family and party abuse me, but I am here on November 14, your birthday, to complete work left undone from your time," Prime Minister Modi said.
"There are some political parties that are worried over currency ban. Those against me are strong people. But I will not be scared of them. I will not leave the path of truth and integrity. Some people never say anything on your face, but behind your back they poke other people to oppose and go against you," he added while addressing a mega rally in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.
Meanwhile, Surjewala also used the occasion to criticize Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's statement that recalibration of ATMs will take up to three weeks.
"It's a lame duck excuse that the Finance Minister of this country is giving to the people. You can only fool some people at some time but not all the people at all times," he said.
Earlier on Saturday, Jaitley regretted hardships caused due to withdrawal of high denomination notes but advised the public to be patient.
He said it may take up to three weeks for all the ATMs to operate normally as each one has to be calibrated individually to dispense the Rs. 2000 and the Rs. 500 notes besides the Rs. 100 notes.
Stating that the government is constantly monitoring the situation, the Finance Minister also assured that the RBI and other banks have stacked up enough currency to replace Rs. 14 lakh crore worth of Rs. 1000 and 500 notes that have been declared invalid.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Israel President Reuven Rivlin arrived here on Monday afternoon on an eight-day official visit to India at the invitation of his counterpart Pranab Mukherjee.
President Rivlin, who is accompanied by his spouse Nechama Rivlin and a high-level delegation comprising officials, academicians and business leaders, was received and welcomed at the Indira Gandhi International Airport by Minister of Science and Technology and Earth Sciences Dr Harsh Vardhan.
"Filled with pride as I depart for State Visit to India to see how Israeli innovation is improving the lives of millions. Departing on a state visit to #India at the invitation of Pres. Mukherjee @RashtrapatiBhvn, with a delegation of industry, academic heads," tweeted President Rivlin before leaving for India.
The Israeli President first touched down in Mumbai this morning.
During his visit from November 14 to 21, President Rivlin will be meeting his Indian counterpart, who will also host a banquet in his honour. Later, Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari would call on him.
On November 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold bilateral discussions with President Rivlin and will also host a lunch for him.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj would call on the visiting dignitary.
President Rivlin is expected to meet business leaders of both India and Israel. He will also be visiting 'Centre of Excellence' in agriculture in Karnal and participate in Agro Tech - 2016.
India and Israel enjoy excellent relations marked by strong ties in the areas of economy and commerce, science and technology, research and innovation, culture and tourism, education etc.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Israeli President Reuven Rivlin will be arriving in Mumbai on Monday on an eight-day visit to India at the invitation of President Pranab Mukherjee.
The Israeli President will be accompanied by his spouse Nechama Rivlin and a high-level delegation comprising officials, academicians and business leaders.
During his visit from 14-21, President Rivlin will be received by President Mukherjee, who will also host a banquet in his counterpart's honour. Later, Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari would call on him.
On November15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold bilateral discussions with President Rivlin and will also host a lunch for him.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj would call on President Rivlin.
President Rivlin is expected to meet business leaders of both of India and Israel. He will also be visiting 'Centre of Excellence' in agriculture in Karnal and participate in Agro Tech - 2016.
India and Israel enjoy excellent relations marked by strong ties in the areas of economy and commerce, science and technology, research and innovation, culture and tourism, education etc, said a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs on November 9 in New Delhi.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Monday clarified its stance on West Bengal Chief Minister and party supremo Mamata Banerjee calling up CPI (M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury and said that she is taking all steps to initiate a movement to stop the nation from heading towards financial anarchy.
Stating that the West Bengal Chief Minister wants all parties to come on board and fight the government, TMC leader Derek O'Brien added that all political parties should support her in order to help the people of the nation.
"Mamata di has reached out to all the political parties. We are happy that the President of India has given the time and this is a joint movement because the people are suffering. The country is headed towards financial anarchy. So, all the political parties will get together and express to the President of India how bad the situation is? So, it's not about anybody leading these. We are all going together, we will work together as movement," said Brien.
"Please understand don't mention specific political parties. When the people are suffering then all political parties have to rise above their own party flags, get together. That's why Mamata di spoke to everybody today. The Prime Minister is saying hold on, give me 50 more days. We can't give him 50 more hours," he added.
Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Brinda Karat earlier took potshots at Banerjee for calling up Yechury to join hands against the government's demonetisation move and said that this was a desperate move on part of the TMC chief as her government is involved in several scams including the Saradha chit-fund case.
"The TMC is taking all these measures against the demonetisation endeavour because Bengal is neck deep in corruption courtesy scams like the Saradha," Karat told ANI.
The TMC supremo created a buzz earlier on Sunday by calling up Yechury to join hands against the BJP-led NDA regime's demonetisation move.
On November 8, Prime Minister Modi announced demonetisation of currency notes in a major assault on black money, fake currency and corruption.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
This Children's Day Ola, India's most popular app for transportation is giving citizens of Kolkata a chance to support underprivileged children in the city.
In an endeavor to help more than 30 thousand underprivileged kids, Ola, today announced an on-demand contribution drive. As part of this campaign, Ola will introduce a category icon - 'NOV 14', on its app on Children's Day.
The 'NOV 14' icon will appear as an additional category on the Ola app, where customers can avail the offering at the click of a button, just like they book an Ola cab.
Ola customers will be able to buy CRY (Child Rights and You) branded goodies like T-shirts, stationery kits, coffee mugs, cards and photo albums.
All proceeds from the activity will be donated to CRY, to support their work towards upliftment of underprivileged children in the city. The category will be live between 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, on 14th November 2016. Once booked an Ola cab carrying CRY goodies will appear at the customer's location, from which he will be able to purchase the goodies of his/her choice.
"A majority of children are still unable to receive basic amenities in the country. CRY has been playing a pivotal role in bringing about a positive change in the lives of millions of underprivileged children across the nation; and we are extremely proud to join them and do our bit in widening the reach of this effort," said Head - East at Ola, Piyush Surana.
"While Ola is constantly working towards strengthening the transportation ecosystem in the city through its smart and sustainable commuting solutions; initiatives like these fall in line with our endeavour to serve the city in a holistic manner. As an Indian company whose vision is to create mobility for a billion Indians, we feel that it is of great importance that we open up our platform for such causes and enable people to contribute seamlessly. We hope to reach more and more underprivileged children through this campaign," added Surana.
"We welcome Ola on their effort towards broadening our reach to the people of Kolkata on this Children's day. Having impacted over two million underprivileged children across 23 states in the country over the last 37 years, we hope that this drive will go a long way to raise awareness among the people at large, and receive considerable support from them, which will help us reaching more children in a meaning and effective way," said Regional Director CRY East, Atindra Nath Das.
CRY, a renowned organization that has worked tirelessly to protect child rights and facilitates education opportunities for the underprivileged children. Together with Ola they are aiming to reach out to hundreds and thousands of Ola users through this contribution drive. Ola and CRY have worked together successfully on several occasions.
Earlier this year, Ola collaborated with CRY for the World Environment Day wherein Ola gave away ride coupons to children affiliated with CRY to attend the event at Indian Museum, Kolkata. In September, Ola also participated in CRY's book launch event.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Bracing themselves for the upcoming Winter Session of the Parliament scheduled to take place between November and December 16, Union Minister Venkaiah Naidu on Monday said the opposition parties would be given a befitting reply in the Parliament who have questioned the government's step of demonetisation.
Briefing the media after concluding the BJP parliamentary meet and the NDA meet, Naidu said the government and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) have taken appropriate steps to mitigate the currency crunch.
"People are not worried about the problems they are facing, but they are looking at the larger interests of the country. As we are trying to cleanse the economy as per the promise we made during the election 2014," Naidu said.
"Allegations levelled by the opposition (on demonetisation issue) are baseless. We will answer them at the appropriate time," he added.
Revealing the minutes of the meeting, Naidu said the decision taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on surgical strikes and with regards to demonetisation was appreciated by its allies.
"Mood of the nation is in favour of the Prime Minister Modi government, in today's BJP parliamentary meeting and the NDA meeting, the entire parties and members have, with one voice, praised the decision of the government with regards to surgical strike and with regards to taking war against corruption and black money," Naidu added.
"In the parliament we will get to know which people are on the side of black money hoarders," he said.
Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress member Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday said Congress MPs would raise the demonetisation issue under rules 56 and 193 during the Winter Session beginning on November 16.
Apart from that, Deputy Leader of The Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Anand Sharma has already given a notice for the suspension of business under rule 267 of the Rajya Sabha for a discussion on the same issue.
According to sources, the Prime Minister who was chairing the BJP Parliamentary Party executive meeting, told the attendees to not buckle under the opposition's pressure and go ahead with the Centre's policy.
Stating that the opposition was hard at work to sabotage the process of demonetisation, the Prime Minister assured that the nation has welcomed the step.
The Prime Minister's assertion comes in the wake of the all out attack launched by the opposition today, as the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP) joined forces in tearing down the scheme of demonetisation.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Acknowledging the temporary inconvenience being caused to the general public by the government's demonetisation announcement, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), however, said interest is more important at the present time, and by and large, the people were in support of this initiative to end black money transactions.
"I believe today that people of India stand united in solidarity to fight against black money, to fight all the corrupt and to be in solidarity with the honest of this nation," BJP leader Shaina NC told ANI.
"Our Prime Minister needs to be applauded by us for the kind of emotion and commitment he has to this nation," she added.
On the Prime Minister's speech in Goa yesterday, Shaina NC said, "In the most emotional speech, he has said how he wants only 15 days for the better good of public at large, and if we have to view this in totality, we must understand that there are honest and the dishonest, but are government stands with the honest and will choose that part right till the end."
She said that the opposition is clearly playing politics and they are inconvenient because of the inconvenience caused to them. "I don't think the public of this country have an iota of doubt on the credibility, the commitment and the solidarity of the honorable Prime Minister," she said.
"Arvind Kejriwal will say what he wants. Nobody pays heed to inconsequential selfish commentary which is only politically driven. Our PM has the integrity, the courage of conviction to lead by example, and if 50 days of inconvenience ensures 50 years of interest and good. I'm sure the people of this country will stand by our government," she added.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Accusing the opposition of attempting to scuttle the fight against corruption, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday vowed that he would never leave the path of truth and integrity while seeking blessings from the nation for this festival of honesty which he hailed as 'mahayagya'.
"This is 'mahayagya'; this is the festival of honesty. I seek your blessings. After Pandit Nehru passed away, many prime ministers came and went but that committee report is still lost in files. Today on Pandit ji's birthday, I pledge to reopen those files, which his party and family Prime Minister's never did. It's my tribute," he said.
The Prime Minister, who has drawn sharp flak from a united opposition post his decision to scrap 500 and 1,000 rupee currency notes, urged all to support his decision and bless him in his war against black or undeclared money.
He invoked the nation's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru on his 127th birth anniversary to take potshots at the Congress for raising objection to his firm decision.
"Pandit Nehru, your family and party abuse me, but I am here on November 14, your birthday, to complete work left undone from your time," Prime Minister Modi said.
"There are some political parties that are worried over currency ban. Those against me are strong people. But I will not be scared of them. I will not leave the path of truth and integrity. Some people never say anything on your face, but behind your back they poke other people to oppose and go against you," he added while addressing a mega rally here.
Escalating his attack on the grand old party, he said that former prime minister Indira Gandhi had during the Emergency in the 1970s turned the entire country into a jail for 19 months only to stay in power.
"Our enemy is printing counterfeit notes across the border. Enemy is flooding our nation with these counterfeit notes. We need to put an end to this," he added.
Prime Minister Modi further said that he changed the notes into just worthless piece of paper in order to stop corruption, adding that the government has got a comprehensive crop insurance scheme for the farmers.
He asserted that he was pained by the inconvenience caused and that is why he was working tirelessly to help them overcome the financial crunch.
"I am saying again just give me 50 days. The bank staff is working for 18 hours a day. This is 'mahayagya', this is the festival of honesty. I seek your blessings (for success of currency ban)," he said.
"Have you heard that people are throwing currency notes in the Ganga. I must warn those people, their sins won't be washed away with all this. Today poor are sleeping peacefully whereas the rich are searching for sleeping pills. There is no dearth of money in India, but we don't know where this money is kept. The troubles people are facing is disturbing me," he added.
The Congress and other opposition parties have accused Prime Minister Modi of introducing an anti-poor scheme by banning Rs. 500 and 1,000 currency notes in a sudden move last week.
The currency crunch that has followed has left the people standing for hours in queues at banks to draw money, which is being rationed till there are enough replacement notes.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Former Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi on Monday criticized the Centre's move to ban 500 and 1,000 rupee currency notes and alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is pro-capitalist and pro-corporate.
Gogoi told ANI, "Socialism means concern for the poor and not just few small section of society. Modi is pro-capitalist and a pro-corporate. There are low income groups and those are the worst sufferers. Price rise is on and job creation has stopped."
"Everybody wants to get rid of corruption and black money. Two and a half years have passed but we did not see Modi bring back the black money. He has failed. He promised that he would bring the money back from Swiss banks within 100 days. We have not found in our account the fifteen lakhs which he promised," he added.
The Prime Minister, who has drawn sharp flak from a united opposition post his decision to scrap 500 and 1,000 rupee currency notes, urged all to support his decision and bless him in his war against black or undeclared money.
"There are some political parties that are worried over currency ban. Those against me are strong people. But I will not be scared of them. I will not leave the path of truth and integrity. Some people never say anything on your face, but behind your back they poke other people to oppose and go against you," he added while addressing a mega rally in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh.
The Congress and other opposition parties have accused Prime Minister Modi of introducing an anti-poor scheme by banning Rs. 500 and 1,000 currency notes in a sudden move last week.
The currency crunch that has followed has left the people standing for hours in queues at banks to draw money, which is being rationed till there are enough replacement notes.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Calling on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to pay no heed to the barrage of attack by the opposition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday ordered the government to go full ahead with demonetisation and ruled out any chance whatsoever of rolling back the scheme.
According to sources, the Prime Minister who was chairing the BJP Parliamentary Party executive meeting, told the attendees to not buckle under the opposition's pressure and go ahead with the Centre's policy.
Stating that the opposition was hard at work to sabotage the process of demonetisation, the Prime Minister assured that the nation has welcomed the step.
The Prime Minister's assertion comes in the wake of the all out attack launched by the opposition today, as the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP) joined forces in tearing down the scheme of demonetisation.
Earlier today, Mayawati asserted that people, who were expecting good days, are now facing bad days because of the government's strange decision to ban high denomination notes.
Attempting to reach out to the poor and middle class ahead of next year's assembly polls, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said that small and medium businesses have shut down courtesy demonetisation.
"In the name of demonetisation, the common people are being made to suffer. Modi ji has brought miseries and pain for the poor which is extremely wrong. I would like to ask why people of the nation are being troubled like this," said Mayawati.
"The economic affairs of the nation has been hampered by this decision, crores of small and medium scale businesses have been shut in the wake of demonetisation. Its seems like a country wide shutdown is being observed. The people, who were expecting 'achhe din', are now facing 'bure din' and people of the nation want freedom from all this," she added.
On the other hand, holding the Prime Minister responsible for the present cash crunch, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the Centre was unprepared in dealing with the crisis.
"Today Centre announced that Indian Air Force will be used to carry and distribute currency notes, it shows that government did not have any game plane to tackle the crisis, government was unprepared in executing its plan, it shows that the government is in a precarious situation," Kejriwal said.
He said that despite Prime Minister Modi's claim that the demonitisation drive would bring sleepless nights to the rich, the aam aadmi (common man), instead, are having sleepless nights standing outside the ATMs.
Branding the Prime Minister as a "habitual abuser", the Congress said that arrogance of power should not surpass the problems faced by people.
Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala lashed out at the Prime Minister and said that it has become his "character and style" to taunt others.
"The Prime Minister is a habitual abuser himself. We respect the Prime Minister and the office he holds. Whatever abuses he may heap, which he continues to do every day on the leaders of the opposition parties, let him mock the entire country. The Prime Minister mocks the entire nation. The other day, he was sitting in Japan and mocked everybody who was getting married, who were not able to arrange their marriages. Such has become the character and style of this minister," Surjewala said.
Prime Minister Modi, who has drawn sharp flak from a united opposition post his decision to scrap 500 and 1,000 rupee currency notes, urged all to support his decision and bless him in his war against black or undeclared money.
He invoked the nation's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru on his 127th birth anniversary to take potshots at the Congress for raising objection to his firm decision.
"Pandit Nehru, your family and party abuse me, but I am here on November 14, your birthday, to complete work left undone from your time," Prime Minister Modi said.
"There are some political parties that are worried over currency ban. Those against me are strong people. But I will not be scared of them. I will not leave the path of truth and integrity. Some people never say anything on your face, but behind your back they poke other people to oppose and go against you," he added while addressing a mega rally in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh on Monday.
On Sunday night, Prime Minister Modi held a meeting at his residence with senior ministers past Sunday to review demonetisation and its impact.
After a review by the Finance Ministry, the limit of old and now defunct 500 and 1000 rupee notes that can be exchanged for freshly minted 2000 rupees and new 500 rupee notes was increased from 4000 rupees to 4500 rupees per day.
Cash withdrawal limit at ATMs was hiked to 2,500 rupees from 2,000 rupees a day. The weekly limit of 20,000 rupees for withdrawal from bank counters has been increased to 24,000 rupees.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Backing the Centre's step of demonetisation, which has caused a massive upheaval across the nation, ace music composer Anu Malik asserted that any step taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was with the intention of the betterment of the nation.
Malik, who is in Kolkata for the audition of the new season of Indian Idol, expressed his support towards the Prime Minister, saying that any step taken by him was taken keeping the nation in mind.
"He is a great Prime Minister and what he has done for the poor people in laudable," Malik told ANI here.
Malik has joined the ranks of a large section of Bollywood who have endorsed the brave decision by the Centre.
Aamir Khan, whose film Dangal is all set to hit the theatres this December, stated that he would not mind if the business of his film gets affected by demonetisation as he is looking at the larger picture
''During such situations, we should think about what is good for the country. People are facing some issues, but we should focus more on the long-term benefits of this drive. Even if this drive affects the business of my film, I would have no issues with it," he said.
Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Rishi Kapoor, Madhur Bhandarkar, Karan Johar, Anurag Kashyap, Farhan Akhtar are some of the few big names from the Hindi film industry who have supported the Prime Minister.
However, chaos continued to ensue across the nation as several citizens are complaining of facing massive inconvenience due to demonetisation and not being able to run their daily lives.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Looks like Prince Harry's lady love Meghan Markle has always had something really strong for the English guys.
'The Suits' recently gushed over her fondness for British men in a newly resurfaced interview with Esquire U.K. magazine, reports Us Magazine.
In 2013, the 35-year-old beauty told the publication that she swoons whenever she sees an Englishman "dress for the cold."
"I'm from L.A. so I'm used to seeing people in sunglasses and flip-flops. There's something so romantic about a man in a scarf and a knitted hat," she continued.
Markle added that she like men who are genuine and a good sense of humour, "Kindness is the number one quality I look for in a man."
"You can see in how he treats anyone - from a CEO to a housekeeper - and it's a reflection of how nice a guy is. Funniness and confidence come after that. ... When a guy approaches me, it's fantastic if he can make me laugh," she explained. "It's really attractive if a man has a skill that you want to improve in yourself. If you can learn from someone, then that's sexy."
Other than these, what adds to her fondness is the way Brits speak, "I love how much men call you 'darling' here."
The 32-year-old Royal, who started dating the actress in June, confirmed their relationship in a statement early last week, while condemning racist and sexist trolls for negative comments about her.
"Prince Harry is worried about Ms. Markle's safety and is deeply disappointed that he has not been able to protect her," the statement read. "It is not right that a few months into a relationship with him that Ms. Markle should be subjected to such a storm. ... This is not a game - it is her life and his.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Following reports that General (Retd.) Pervez Musharraf is attempting to become the joint president of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Pakistan and its offshoot Pak Sarzameen Party (PSP), graffiti in support of the former military dictator have appeared in parts of Karachi.
Spray-painted scrawls such as 'Jeay Musharraf' and 'We need Musharraf' appeared in Federal B Area and Clifton, reports the Express Tribune.
It is alleged that the All Pakistan Muslim League (APML) is behind this campaign.
The posters and graffiti started appearing in the wake of Musharraf's meeting with MQM's Khawaja Izharul Hasan, Farooq Sattar and PSP's Mustafa Kamal.
Though MQM leaders and Mustafa Kamal have refuted reports of a move afoot to reunify MQM, sources privy to the development said that backdoor negotiations have started on this matter.
There are also reports that former Sindh governor Dr Ishratul Ebad has opened backdoor channels to woo MQM- Pakistan leaders to work under the leadership of Musharraf.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Usman Khawaja struck half-century as Australia dug in to reach 121 for two in their second innings against South Africa before bad light ended the third day's play of the second Test at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart on Monday.
After losing opener Joe Burns for a duck, David Warner (45) joined forces with Khawaja (56*) and stitched a 79-run stand for the second wicket to provide their side with some ray of hope and avoid a probable series loss in the second Test itself.
At stumps, Australia were still trailing by 120 runs, with Khawaja and skipper Steve Smith (unbeaten at 18) batting at the crease.
Earlier, resuming at an overnight score of 171-5, Temba Bavuma (74) and Quinton de Kock (104) continued to strengthen their side's innings as the duo shared a 144-run partnership for sixth wicket to take the first innings' lead of 241 runs after being bowled out for 326.
Josh Hazlewood grabbed six wickets while Mitchell Starc and Joe Mennie scalped three and two wickets respectively.
Earlier on Day One, Vernon Philander (5 for 21) wrecked havoc as he along with Kyle Abbott (3 for 41) and Kagiso Rabada (one for 20) helped the Proteas bundle out the Steven Smith led-side for a paltry 85.
The second day's play was whitewashed without a ball being bowled.
South Africa, who currently remain well-placed to clinch the series victory in Hobart, are currently leading the three-match Test series 1-0 following their massive 177-run win over the Smith-led side in the opening match in Perth.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The has warned Prime Minister Narendra Modi to roll back the demonetisation scheme or be on the receiving end of an angered public, who are seething with fury after being massively inconvenienced by the Centre's tectonic scheme.
Speaking to the media here, leader Sanjay Raut asserted that the severe crunch being faced by the people was a very disturbing sign for the government.
When told that the Prime Minister had firmly ruled out any possibility of a roll back, Raut replied saying, "then the government can face a roll back themselves. The fully stands in the fight against corruption, but if there is so much anger among the masses, then something must be wrong."
Emphasising his party's stand on the matter, Raut further said that it was the common man on whom the scheme had proven to be costly, which the rich and powerful continued to languish in their palaces.
"Not a single one of them has been caught, nor are they standing in the long queues. This is not about siding with the opposition but about being with the masses when they need us. All political parties must join hands and call for a roll back of the scheme," Raut said.
However, calling on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to pay no heed to the barrage of attack by the opposition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier today ordered the government to go full ahead with demonetisation and ruled out any chance whatsoever of rolling back the scheme.
According to sources, the Prime Minister who was chairing the BJP Parliamentary Party executive meeting, told the attendees to not buckle under the opposition's pressure and go ahead with the Centre's policy.
Stating that the opposition was hard at work to sabotage the process of demonetisation, the Prime Minister assured that the nation has welcomed the step.
The Prime Minister's assertion comes in the wake of the all out attack launched by the opposition today, as the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP) joined forces in tearing down the scheme of demonetisation.
Earlier today, Mayawati asserted that people, who were expecting good days, are now facing bad days because of the government's strange decision to ban high denomination notes.
Attempting to reach out to the poor and middle class ahead of next year's assembly polls, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said that small and medium businesses have shut down courtesy demonetisation.
"In the name of demonetisation, the common people are being made to suffer. Modi ji has brought miseries and pain for the poor which is extremely wrong. I would like to ask why people of the nation are being troubled like this," said Mayawati.
"The economic affairs of the nation has been hampered by this decision, crores of small and medium scale businesses have been shut in the wake of demonetisation. Its seems like a country wide shutdown is being observed. The people, who were expecting 'achhe din', are now facing 'bure din' and people of the nation want freedom from all this," she added.
On the other hand, holding the Prime Minister responsible for the present cash crunch, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the Centre was unprepared in dealing with the crisis.
"Today Centre announced that Indian Air Force will be used to carry and distribute currency notes, it shows that government did not have any game plane to tackle the crisis, government was unprepared in executing its plan, it shows that the government is in a precarious situation," Kejriwal said.
He said that despite Prime Minister Modi's claim that the demonitisation drive would bring sleepless nights to the rich, the aam aadmi (common man), instead, are having sleepless nights standing outside the ATMs.
Branding the Prime Minister as a "habitual abuser", the Congress said that arrogance of power should not surpass the problems faced by people.
Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala lashed out at the Prime Minister and said that it has become his "character and style" to taunt others.
"The Prime Minister is a habitual abuser himself. We respect the Prime Minister and the office he holds. Whatever abuses he may heap, which he continues to do every day on the leaders of the opposition parties, let him mock the entire country. The Prime Minister mocks the entire nation. The other day, he was sitting in Japan and mocked everybody who was getting married, who were not able to arrange their marriages. Such has become the character and style of this minister," Surjewala said.
Prime Minister Modi, who has drawn sharp flak from a united opposition post his decision to scrap 500 and 1,000 rupee currency notes, urged all to support his decision and bless him in his war against black or undeclared money.
"There are some political parties that are worried over currency ban. Those against me are strong people. But I will not be scared of them. I will not leave the path of truth and integrity. Some people never say anything on your face, but behind your back they poke other people to oppose and go against you," he added while addressing a mega rally in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh on Monday.
The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Monday dared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to prove his allegations on the opposition parties post demonetisation and said that the people of Uttar Pradesh would give him a befitting reply in next year's assembly polls for his don kind of language and failure to fulfill the promises made to the nation in the run up to the 2014 general election.
BSP leader Sudheendra Bhadauria condemned the Prime Minister's remark and alleged that he is being vindictive towards the opposition.
"The way Modi is speaking about the opposition shows that he is being vindictive towards them. The people of Uttar Pradesh are not accustomed to this don kind of language that he is using," said Bhadauria.
Bhadauria further said the use of such language in a democracy is not acceptable, adding if the Prime Minister wants to do something then he can do it legally not by making allegations.
"Now, when he is unable to fulfill his promises he is becoming like don. The people of Uttar Pradesh will give a befitting reply to him in the upcoming state election," he said.
Accusing the opposition of attempting to scuttle the fight against corruption, Prime Minister Modi earlier in the day vowed that he would never leave the path of truth and integrity while seeking blessings from the nation for this festival of honesty which he hailed as 'mahayagya'.
The Prime Minister, who has drawn sharp flak from a united opposition post his decision to scrap 500 and 1,000 rupee currency notes, urged all to support his decision and bless him in his war against black or undeclared money.
"There are some political parties that are worried over currency ban. Those against me are strong people. But I will not be scared of them. I will not leave the path of truth and integrity. Some people never say anything on your face, but behind your back they poke other people to oppose and go against you," he added while addressing a mega rally in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh.
The Congress and other opposition parties have accused Prime Minister Modi of introducing an anti-poor scheme by banning Rs. 500 and 1,000 currency notes in a sudden move last week.
The currency crunch that has followed has left the people standing for hours in queues at banks to draw money, which is being rationed till there are enough replacement notes.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Early detection of cancer is critical to improving the quality of life of those suffering from this life threatening scourge.
Early detection is a surer way to add more years to a cancer patient's life. Technology companies are working on breakthrough solutions in cancer detection and treatment for the near future, a US expert in robotic surgery has said.
A WHO Globocan 2012 survey placed India's cancer incidence at 10,14,934 cases with mortality number touching 6,82,830.
Dr Catherine Mohr, Vice President for Strategy at Sunnyvale-headquartered surgical robot maker, Intuitive Surgical Inc., describes a Stage-1 cancer patient as one facing a 'speed bump' while a Stage-4 cancer patient is closer to 'crashing into a big brick wall', reducing the chances of survival beyond five years.
A patient detected with Stage-4 lung cancer has only a 15 percent chance of survival beyond five years. Early detection of the lung cancer gives patients 80 per cent chance of living beyond five years, Dr Mohr said while speaking to 200 Indian Robotic Surgeons
A Surgical Robot is especially suitable for complicated surgeries and situations needing reconstruction of body parts as it leads to significantly lower complications, readmissions and mortality as compared to traditional open surgery.
Surgical Robots are changing the method of accessing the interiors of the body by unambiguously identifying and removing cancerous cells and retaining good cells. insurers in many European countries pay a premium for Robotic Surgery because the patients spend less time in hospital and are able to get back to work faster.
Dr Mohr, who is also a consulting professor at Stanford School of Medicine, was presenting on 'New Horizons of Surgical Technology' at the bi-annual RSC meet at the initiative of Vattikuti Foundation, a US non profit.
Experts allayed fears that a surgical robot may someday replace surgeons, saying that robots will not replace a surgeon anytime soon because a surgeon's experience and surgical judgment cannot be replicated by a machine.
Today, nearly 500 robotic surgeries a month are conducted in India, ranging from removal of cancerous tissues to reconstruction of organs damaged by cancer as well as the removal of organs such as the kidney, liver, pancreas, thyroid, prostrate, and uterus.
A Surgical Robot scores over conventional modes of surgery as it leads to minimal blood loss, quick healing and less pain, leading to shorter hospital stays. Surgical Robots are being used in almost all specialties involving soft body tissues.
Mr Michael Hall, International Training Manager, Intuitive Surgical unveiled a plan for continuing training for existing Robotic Surgeons and induction of new surgeons. The company will join hands with Vattikuti Foundation to speed up its plan to enhance the pool of robotic surgeons to 500 by 2020.
The Vattikuti Foundation is striving to grow the pool of Robotic Surgeons in the country. Mr Hall recognised 7 Vattikuti Fellows, including one international Vattikuti fellow and 27 Vattikuti Scholars.
"At this year's RSC we brought in more experts in the emerging areas for Robotic Surgery--Colorectal, and Head & Neck surgery. Indian surgeons are now devising new techniques for complex robot-assisted surgeries in these areas. Robotic Surgery results in superior patient outcomes," says Dr Mahendra Bhandari, Director, Robotic Research and Education, Vattikuti Urology Institute, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, USA and CEO of Vattikuti Foundation.
Dr. Emre Gorgun, an accomplished Robotic Surgeon specialising in colorectal surgery at ?the Cleveland Clinic, USA, delivered the second keynote address on the new advancements in colorectal surgery at the meet.
The RSC featured 20 sessions covering specialisations in Urology (robotic kidney transplant, urology in pediatric patients, urinary incontinence among prostrate removal cases), Gynaecology (breast cancer, hysterectomy, ovarian tumours), Thoracic (lung surgery), Head & Neck (oral cancer, sleep apnea), Bariatric (including gastric bypass) and Colorectal. Challenges in preparing accomplished Robotic Surgeons and emerging technological interfaces for surgery will also be among the subjects for discussion.
Over 40 surgeons from Tata Memorial Hospital, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Medanta Medcity, Apollo Hospitals, Max Hospitals, Amrita Hospital, Delhi State Cancer Institute, Asian Heart Institute, Fortis Hospitals, and others, shared best practices and notes on advancements in Robotic Surgery.
Speaking about robotic surgery, each surgical robot has four arms that can reach organs and areas inside the body where human fingers cannot.
Entering the soft tissue of the patient through pencil-sized holes, the arms of a surgical robot are even capable of operating on blood vessels and valves within the heart, using a suture that is thinner than human hair. The surgeon sits at a robotic console and enjoys magnified three-dimensional high-definition visualisation. Instead of long, handheld surgical tools, the surgeon controls tiny surgical instruments that have wrist movement which follow the surgeon's finger tips gently moving robotic controls and leading to very precise surgery inside their patient.
"The growing interest among hospitals to equip themselves with new-age Surgical Robots especially from non-metro cities is encouraging. A steady rise in the number of hospitals adopting Robotic Surgery to nearly 40, augurs well for the patients from smaller cities who were constrained by the non-availability of cancer treatment nearer home," adds Mr Gopal Chakravarthi, CEO of Vattikuti Technologies, the Indian company working with Indian hospitals to make robotic surgery affordable to the masses in India.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Commerce and Industry Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman and H. E. Tengye Lyonpo Lekey Dorji, Minister for Economic Affairs, Royal Government of Bhutan signed the Agreement on Trade, Commerce and Transit between India and the Royal Government of Bhutan in the presence of H. E.
Lyonchhen Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of Bhutan at the Gyalyong Tshokhang in Thimphu on 12 November, 2016.
The first Agreement on Trade and Commerce between Bhutan and India was signed in 1972. Since then, the Agreement has been renewed four times. The last Agreement was renewed on July 28, 2006 and was valid till July 29, 2016. The validity of the Agreement was extended for a period of one year or till the date of coming into force of the new Agreement, whichever is earlier, by exchange of diplomatic notes between the two countries.
The new bilateral Trade Agreement aims to enhance trade between the two countries through trade facilitation by improving procedures, cutting down on documentation and adding additional exit/entry points for Bhutan's trade with other countries. It is also expected to further strengthen the excellent relations between the two countries.
She also had a bilateral meeting with a high level Bhutanese delegation led by Lyonpo Lekey Dorji, Minister for Economic Affairs of Bhutan where both the leaders discussed various issues related to bilateral trade, transit and investment.
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At meeting held on 12 November 2016 r
Empee Distilleries announced that the Board of Directors of the Company at its meeting held on 12 November 2016, inter alia, transacted the following :
- K. Murali, Company Secretary and compliance officer has resigned from the service of the Company and the Board relieved him from the position of Company Secretary and compliance officer w.e.f. 12 November 2016.
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Special watch is being kept receipt of fake notes in the States bordering our neighbouring countries
One of the primary objectives of cancellation of legal tender character of old series of Rs.500/- and Rs.1000/- notes was to check the menace of terror financing through counterfeit currency notes. The receipt of counterfeits/fake currency notes in Banks and Post Offices are, therefore, being monitored very closely. RBI has been advised by Ministry of Finance to set up a Special Cell to monitor the receipt of fake currency notes and inform such instances to the Economic Offences Wing of the State Police, Intelligence/Enforcement Agencies of the Central Government and also to the Ministry of Finance. A special watch is being kept on receipt of such fake notes in the States bordering our neighbouring countries. The Law Enforcement Agencies have also been advised to maintain close vigil over possible movement of fake currencies and take prompt action as and when such cases are detected by them as well as by RBI and Banks.
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Sales rise 71.31% to Rs 14.87 crore
Net profit of Indo Thai Securities declined 77.42% to Rs 0.07 crore in the quarter ended September 2016 as against Rs 0.31 crore during the previous quarter ended September 2015. Sales rose 71.31% to Rs 14.87 crore in the quarter ended September 2016 as against Rs 8.68 crore during the previous quarter ended September 2015.14.878.68-0.74-12.900.030.40-0.180.330.070.31
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In Chakhan Industrial Area, Pune
Kingfa Science & Technology (India) announced that the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation has handed Over the possession of Plot No. F-5/5 admeasuring 120000 sq mtr of the Chakhan Industrial Area Phase -II, Village Shinde & Vasuli Tal-Khed, District - Pune to the Company, for Manufacturing Facility. The Company also has signed the lease Agreement for the said land.
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Held on 12 November 2016
Sree Sakthi Paper Mills announced that the Board of Directors of the Company at its meeting held on 12 November 2016, inter alia, has transacted the following;
1. V. N. Sridharan has been appointed as Chief Financial Officer.
2. N.Subramanian, Chennai appointed as Independent Additional Director
3. Approved availment of Incorporate loan of Rs. 7,12,00,000/- from Kailash Logistics.
4. Discussed options regarding reopening of Edayar Factory.
5. Fixed date for next Annual General Meeting on 30 December 2016.
6. Approved the Draft Director's report and Corporate Governance report.
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At meeting held on 14 November 2016
TAAL Enterprises announced that the Board of Directors of the Company at its meeting held on 14 November 2016, at 2.00 p.m. which concluded at 3.00 p.m.: - Vasant Bhat has been appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of the Company with immediate effect.
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At least six civilians and six militants were killed on Monday in a suicide attack in Iraq, the Interior Ministry said.
The attack was carried out by six militants in the town of Ain al-Tamr, ministry spokesman Colonel Saad Maan said in a statement.
Iraqi security forces killed five militants, while the sixth reportedly went into a residential building and detonated the explosive device he was wearing, killing six people and injuring another six.
Ain al-Tamr was the scene of a similar attack on a wedding party in August, which resulted in the deaths of 18 people.
--IANS
ksk/bg
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Police in Hyderabad booked two employees of a bank for exchanging demonetised notes worth Rs 6 lakh without identification proof.
The employees of Kamala Nagar branch of Syndicate Bank in Saroornagar were booked late on Sunday after the manager lodged a complaint with the police.
V. Mallesh, a clerk, handed over demonetized notes of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 to cashier Radhika and collected equal amount in new currency notes of Rs 2,000. This incident happened on Saturday and the same was detected by the manager during verification.
Saroornagar police booked the duo for cheating and criminal breach of trust.
Following suspension by the bank manager, Mallesh brought back Rs 5.6 lakh. He told the higher-ups that he spent the remaining amount.
The bank officials and police, however, don't believe that the money belonged to him.
Police were questioning him to know the source of demonetized notes.
Under the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) rules, a person can exchange maximum of Rs 4,000 demonetized notes by submitting Aadhar card or other identification proof.
Iraqi forces recaptured the ancient village of Nimrud and the site of the ruins as part of the ongoing battle for Mosul, the Islamic State (IS) terror group's last major stronghold in the war-torn country.
The recapture took place on Sunday, according to Colonel Mohammed Ibrahim, a spokesman for Iraq's Joint operations command.
While the village was now under control by Iraqi forces, clashes were still underway to retake the town, less than a mile west of the ruins, Ibrahim told CNN.
Nimrud is 30 km southeast of Mosul.
Archeologists first began excavating the Assyrian city of Nimrud -- built nearly 3,000 years ago -- in the 1840s.
In the decades that followed, they unearthed priceless treasures from the city, including palaces adorned with unique frescoes and giant sculptures.
Last year, the IS blew up the ancient walled city.
Unesco described the deliberate destruction of Nimrud as a "war crime".
Nimrud flourished between 900 B.C. and 612 B.C. Buildings there "have yielded thousands of carved ivories, mostly made in the 9th and 8th centuries B.C., now one of the richest collections of ivory in the world," according to Encyclopedia Britannica's website.
The famous British mystery novelist Agatha Christie accompanied her husband, archaeologist Max Mallowan, at his excavation in Nimrud and helped clean some of the ivories.
The Iraqi and Kurdish troop offensive to liberate Mosul began on October 17 with a three-pronged offensive along the north, south and eastern fronts, which has enabled the liberation of various eastern Mosul neighbourhoods.
--IANS
ksk
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The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday hit back at West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her criticism of the demonetisation move, describing her as "Queen of Saradha", referring to the multi-crore rupee Saradha chit fund scam.
"The West Bengal Chief Minister is working very hard to rally the opposition against the BJP, but whether the Queen of Saradha would succeed in it or not, only time will tell," BJP spokesman Sidharth Nath Singh said here.
Banerjee has called upon opposition parties to unite against the Narendra Modi government on the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes "in the greater interest of the nation" and said she has no problem in working with arch rival Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M).
Singh said the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo was only a "mirror image" of the Left.
He also accused Banerjee of sheltering terrorists.
"The guns used in the Gulshan bakery attack in Dhaka have been found to be manufactured in Malda, according to a NIA report," he said.
He said the BJP was not worried as it was "standing with the truth".
The BJP leader also attacked the Congress and raked up the Commonwealth Games (CWG) scam.
The 2010 Games were held when the Congress was in power in Delhi as well as at the Centre, and Congress leader Suresh Kalmadi was appointed the chairman of the organising committee.
"It has emerged that Suresh Kalmadi was appointed chairman of the organising committee of CWG by flouting rules. The then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh appointed Kalmadi through a Group of Ministers, skirting around the rules,"
--IANS
mak/rn
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The cash crisis bedevilling the people after the November 8 demonetisation continued to persist for the sixth day on Monday in several north-eastern states, especially in rural and remote areas.
"We are yet to get sufficient new Rs 2,000 denomination currency as well as old Rs 100 and smaller denomination notes, causing serious problems in dealing with the people. We are in touch wth the RBI to get sufficient notes of varied denominations," a top official of United Bank of India (UBI) told IANS on the condition of anonymity.
"No bank in the north-east has as yet received the new Rs 500 note," he added.
The state-owned UBI is a lead bank in several north-eastern states and has the largest number of chests to stock the currencies.
The cash crisis is serious in remote and rural areas, where most banks have no currency notes and automated teller machines are non-functional.
As majority of ATMs either remained closed or functioned at a very slow speed due to technical problems on Monday for the sixth consecutive day in the entire north-eastern region, people thronged banks since early morning to exchange the scrapped currency notes with new ones or to withdraw money.
In Mizoram, long queues of men and women were seen across the state even before the banks opened at 10 a.m. and at post office counters for replacement and withdrawl of notes.
Wine shops in Mizoram also bore the brunt of the cash crisis with sales declining sharply.
A Mizoram Finance Department official said they held meetings with top bank officials and asked them to deal with the cash crisis and resolve the problem at the earliest.
In Silchar (in southern Assam), State Bank of India's Assistant General Manager Himanka Bihari Roy and UBI's Chief Regional Manager Hirendra Narayan Ghosal urged the people in southerm Assam not to panic.
Most government offices in Tripura, Mizoram and southern Assam, including electricity departments and municipal bodies, refused to take old Rs 500 or Rs 1,000 notes against various payments and taxes, forcing some people to make payments through cheques and online.
"Besides people living in the rural, remote and semi-urban areas, businessmen and traders are the worst-hit. The poor, including labourers and migrant workers are in an awkward position due to cash crisis," trader Satya Narayan Kundu said.
Kundu said that business volumes have dipped more than 50 per cent in cities and urban areas and over 60 per cent in rural and remote areas.
"There is no ray of hope as to when the situation will improve. Bank officials are saying the situation will get better soon, but we are not ready to believe them," he added.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Assistant General Manager Sekhar Nath Chattopadhyay, in a statement issued in Agartala, urged people to go for electronic and non-cash mode of payments.
"Those unable to exchange specified bank notes on or before December 30 will be given an opportunity to do so at specified offices of the RBI," Chattopadhyay said.
--IANS
sc/tsb/vt
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China on Monday gave a cautious welcome to the civil nuclear deal between India and Japan, hoping it would strengthen the effectiveness of global nuclear non-proliferation regime.
"With regard to nuclear agreement signed between India and Japan on nuclear energy, we believe that on the promise absorbing international nuclear non-proliferation, all countries are entitled to the peaceful use of nuclear energy," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said.
"At the same time, the relevant cooperation should be conducive to safeguard the authority and effectiveness of the international nuclear non-proliferation regime," Geng added.
During the recent Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Japan, the two countries sealed a historical nuclear deal under which Tokyo would provide civil nuclear technology.
The cooperation would end if India goes for nuclear tests.
On India and Japan issuing a joint statement on the South China Sea, Geng said both countries should respect the efforts made by other countries to maintain peace and stability in the contested waters.
"Under the concerted efforts of the countries in the region including China, the situation in the South China Sea is developing in a positive direction," Geng said at a press conference.
Last week, New Delhi and Japan issued a joint statement on the disputed South China Sea, urging relevant parties to resolve the dispute by peaceful means.
"Regarding the South China Sea, the two Prime Ministers stressed the importance of resolving the disputes by peaceful means, in accordance with universally recognised principles of international law including the UNCLOS," the joint statement said.
In July, an international court rejected China's claims over the South China Sea in a case brought by the Philippines.
The Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan have overlapping claims over the world's most important waterway through which trade worth $5 trillion passes every year.
Beijing has rejected the ruling as illegal.
--IANS
gsh/mr
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Climate change and water rights are deeply inter-connected, globally. Seasons seem to be inverting in the Himalayas where you see snow in summer and entire villages that have existed for generations have had to relocate because of water-pattern changes.
That is the wisdom on offer from Buddhist leader and active environmentalist -- the 12th Gyalwang Drukpa -- the spiritual head of the 800-year-old Drukpa Order based in the Himalayas with around 1,000 monastic centres.
"Climate change deeply affects water patterns, water quality and water rights. Changes in water quality, patterns and access to water are symptoms of climate change and are the first things to affect entire communities," he told IANS in an interview.
On the ongoing high-level United Nations Climate Change Conference in Marrakech in Morocco, he candidly admitted he didn't know the scientific answer to studies that strongly indicate the Hindu Kush, a mountain range extending west of the Himalayas, would be warmer.
The spiritual leader said: "The community that I represent has extensive anecdotal evidence on climate change."
"For example, in Ladakh, we are seeing unprecedented weather phenomenon like cloudbursts. Seasons seem to be inverting -- where you see snow in summer, and entire villages that have existed for countless generations have had to relocate because water-pattern changes," he observed.
"One glimmer of hope that I have is that the local communities in the Himalayas are taking action," said the Buddhist leader, also known as the "Guardian of the Himalayas".
"Many villages are participating in my joint initiative with the Waterkeeper Alliance, the Himalayan Glacier Waterkeepers, where communities monitor the quality of water with an aim to protect the waters of Ladakh and the Himalayas."
Advocating the need to revisit the traditional way of life, the maroon-robed monk said: "There is a lot of green wisdom in traditional lifestyles. For example, the Druk Padma Karpo School (near Leh) incorporated both cutting-edge modern technology and traditional know-how to create one of the greenest schools in Asia.
"This is a great time to marry modern technology with ancient wisdom to tackle today's challenges," he advocated.
The Buddhist leader admitted the ongoing climate talks are of particular importance for both the developing and developed countries.
"I often think that climate change is an opportunity for countries to build bridges and to collaborate," said the 54-year-old Gyalwang Drukpa, who heads the 17th century Hemis monastery, some 40 km from Leh town in Jammu and Kashmir.
Gyalwang Drukpa, recipient of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals Award, in a message to the global leaders said: "Despite all of our differences, we all share the same values of wanting a clean, green and economically thriving world."
"I would encourage the participants to view their differences as strength and not something that divides them. Diversity of thought and background only makes problem-solving more robust and dynamic."
Gyalwang Drukpa, who is associated with the Earth Awards Selection Committee that recognises viable innovations that improve the quality of life, said the Paris Climate Change Agreement that entered into force on November 4 is important to every country.
Just two months after the flash floods that devastated Ladakh in 2010, the Drukpa Order, with around 9,000 volunteers, planted 50,033 willow saplings in 33 minutes and 25 seconds over 112,000 square yards.
According to the spiritual leader, planting trees is not only impactful but also an important gesture.
In a message, he said: "I hope that countries that are home to the Himalayas will collaborate on protecting the water sources of the Himalayas. This is a trans-boundary problem that affects several different religious groups, ethnic groups, countries and terrain."
The twenty-second session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 22) and the 12th session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 12) will be held in Marrakech till November 18.
(Vishal Gulati is travelling to Marrakech to cover COP22. He can be reached at vishal.g@ians.in)
--IANS
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Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Monday hit out at the central government for demonetisaion of higher currency notes and asked how trade would go on without any cash.
"How will traders do business when there is no cash with them because of demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes," Sisodia told reporters while inaugurating the Delhi Pavilion at the 36th India International Trade Fair (IITF) at Pragati Maidan here.
He said he has requested the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) to allow the use of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes at IITF for public convenience.
The central government had announced demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes on November 8.
Sisodia said that common people, especially traders, are facing trouble due to the move.
"There is no cash in ATMs and there are huge queues in front of banks and ATMs.
"Everyone's business has collapsed because of demonetisation. How will they do business now?" Sisodia asked.
--IANS
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Security agencies in Jharkhand are on high alert and are keeping a close watch on moves by Maoist guerrillas to turn their unaccounted money, collected in the form of levy, into "white".
On November 10, police arrested Nand Kishore, a petrol pump owner from Bero on the outskirts of Ranchi. He was carrying Rs 25 lakh cash and going to deposit the money in the bank.
Police intercepted him and later arrested him. During interrogation, Kishore admitted that the money belonged to the banned Maoist organization, People's Liberation Front of India (PLFI) supremo Dinesh Gope. Kishore was to deposit the money in his account in the name of petrol and diesel sales.
In Jharkhand, Maoist guerrillas collect Rs 150 crore to Rs 200 crore in the form of levy, police said.
"Maoists collect 5 to 6 per cent levy from development, infrastructure, mining and other sources. This money is used by the Maoist organisations and a large amount also goes to Maoist leaders. The levy is collected in the form of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes. The levy money is also used to purchase arms and other things," a police officer involved in the Maoist operations told IANS.
He revealed that due to heavy collection of levy, around seven Maoist organisations are "flourishing". These Maoist organisations operate in different districts he added.
After the demonetisation of Rs 500/Rs 1,000 notes on November 8, Maoists are using their white-collared network to turn their black money into white, the police officer said.
Police sources say that contractors, petrol pump owners, mining area contractors, officials, and leaders falling in Maoist bastion areas have been put under close watch.
Police sources said the police headquarters has recommended a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to assess the assets of 10 Maoist guerrillas who are learned to have earned "huge money" in the form of levy from two coal projects - Piparwar and Amprapali.
"The demonetisation is a big setback for the Maoists. We are keeping close watch on transactions of the money of Maoist guerrillas. We have activated our network to gather information of Maoist guerrillas' transactions. We will also seek the help of Income Tax and Enforcement Directorate (ED)," M.S. Bhatia, IG operations and police spokesperson, told IANS.
--IANS
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In anticipation of the huge demand for lower currency notes, ahead of the demonetisation move, the Reserve Bank of India had asked banks to set up Automated Teller Machines which dispensed only Rs 100 notes.
On November 2, six days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in a television address to the nation that Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 denomination notes would become illegal from midnight of November 8, the RBI had asked banks to recalibrate 10 per cent of its ATMs to exclusively dispense Rs 100 notes.
How many banks complied with this directive is not known.
However, the long queues at ATMs and the resultant chaos all across the country would imply that the directive may have been ignored.
In its circular DCM(CC)No 1170/03.41.01/2016-17 issued on November 2, the apex bank said that "in keeping with the objectives of Clean Note Policy and to ensure that genuine requirement of members of public for Rs 100 denomination bank notes are met, the banks should increase dispensation of Rs 100 bank notes through ATMs."
Stating that as a pilot project, 10 per cent of the ATMs in the country would be recalibrated, the RBI said that "as the process involved in configuring the requisite number of machines is not complex, the banks are required to complete the exercise within 15 days" and report compliance.
The RBI had also moved as early as May this year to provide incentive for setting up ATMs which dispensed only Rs 100 notes. In a circular on May 5, The central bank promised to pay 50 per cent of the cost of such ATMs up to Rs 2 lakh.
--IANS
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In a bid to deal with demonetisation, industry body Assocham on Monday asked the government to mobilise all resources across different departments and hire retired bank staff on a massive scale to expedite the currency exchange and withdrawal of cash.
"Just like general elections when staff across different departments is mobilised, different types of staff can be used for helping the over-stretched banks, grappling with the huge task of dealing with the demonitised currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 and dispensing the new notes," said Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham).
The best option appears to be employing the retired bank staff on a mass scale on short-term contracts of three to six months, it said.
While some banks like the State Bank of India and a few others have roped in retired staff, the exercise should be done on a massive scale to deal with the situation, Assocham said.
"While preference can be given by the banks to re-employ their own retired personnel, even cross -bank staff would be helpful. After all, functioning of the public sector banks is generally the same," said Assocham Secretary General D.S. Rawat.
The chamber said the options should be explored to divert staff of other financial services wings and PSUs in the insurance sector for the banking operations for the moment.
The PHD Chamber suggested the government to pay an advance of Rs 10,000 in cash per employee from their November salaries to government, public sector and private sector with the new Rs 500 notes.
"This suggestion would also avoid overflowing queues and hardship being faced by most of the citizens and would also avoid loss of productivity due to employee absenteeism in organizations," it said in a representation submitted to the finance ministry.
PHD Chamber President Mahesh Gupta said that the suggested move would amount in reducing queuing outside banks and ATMs across the country.
"It would immediately make new currency available in one day without stressing banks and post offices," he said.
--IANS
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Indians spend close to $2.4 million annually to get their scientific research output published in different open access (OA) journals, authors of a new study say, raising concerns that scientists often have to cough up two months equivalent of salary to get their work into those journals.
"We estimate that India is potentially spending about $2.4 million annually on Article Processing Charges (APCs) levied by those journals. To publish a paper in OA, some journals levy a charge that is equivalent to two months' salary of an assistant professor in India," Muthu Madhan of DST Centre for Policy Research, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, told IANS.
Criticising the practice, Madhan says it is not right, given the major part (about 70 per cent) of research funding is sourced from taxpayers.
"And there is shortage of funds for research. It is not right for researchers to give part of it to rich publishers -- who overcharge anyway for the meagre services they provide and take home profits in the range 30 to 40 per cent year after year even when the economy was not doing well," he said.
The authors arrived at the figure based on the data mined from Science Citation Index Expanded that revealed 37,078 papers were published by Indian researchers in 881 OA journals during the five-year period from 2010-2014. An abstract of the analysis is available in the Current Science journal, ahead of publication.
"This accounts for about 14.4 per cent of India's overall publication output, considerably higher than the 11.6 per cent from the world," the study notes. It is co-authored by Siva Shankar Kimidi of the Library Department, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad; Subbiah Gunasekaran of the Knowledge Resource Centre, Central Electrochemical Research Institute, Karaikudi; and Subbiah Arunachalam of the DST Centre for Policy Research.
The authors suggest that it would be prudent for Indian researchers to make their work freely available through inter-operable repositories, a trend that is growing significantly around the world.
The study does not include the expenditure on OA papers published by Indian researchers in subscription journals which make papers available on OA on payment of a fee.
Raising the financial and ethical issue of paying for getting papers published in professional journals, the authors opine the funding agencies in India should "forbid researchers who are now using research grants" (funds provided only for research) to cover APCs.
The analysis shed light on the fact that Indian authors have used 488 OA journals levying APC, ranging from Rs 500 to $5,000, in the five years, to publish about 15,400 papers.
Use of OA journals levying APC has "increased" over the four years from 242 journals and 2,557 papers in 2010 to 328 journals and 3,634 papers in 2014.
There has been a spike in the use of non-APC journals as well, but at a slower pace. More than half of these papers were published in just 13 journals.
PLOS One and Current Science are the OA journals Indian researchers use most often, the authors note.
Though most leading Indian journals are open access ones and do not charge APC, there is a leaning towards "foreign journals" in the pecking order.
"Most Indian journals are nowhere near the top in this order. In general, researchers prefer to publish their papers in prestigious journals (as considered by the community), irrespective of the publishing country of a journal. However, most of the prestigious journals (in science, technology and medicine) are published from either North America or Western Europe," Madhan observed.
To circumvent the expenditure, Madhan suggested researchers make their papers OA in two ways.
"They can publish their papers in traditional professional journals that do not levy an APC and place the accepted manuscript (called post-print) in an inter-operable institutional repository. There are ways -- protocols -- by which all the distributed institutional repositories could be viewed as a single mega repository by a searcher."
Institutions can also establish and maintain an inter-operable repository at a negligible cost using open source software such as EPrints and DSpace.
In India, there are many institutions that have set up such repositories.
Notable among them is ScienceCentral -- maintained by CSIR -- URDIP Pune, which hosts repositories for institutions of CSIR, DBT and DST, and harvests and indexes metadata of the contents in those collections. It provides a single search interface, points out Madhan.
At the global level, Bielefeld Academic Search Engine (BASE) is a major player.
The attitude, "paying money to publish papers" that the APC levying journals are trying to nurture, is dangerous for the scientific community, Madhan warned.
"There is a feeling that this idea offers space for dubious publishers who exploit the scientific community and corrupt the research system, and one can no longer ignore the growth of such predatory publishing," he added.
(Sahana Ghosh can be contacted at sahana.g@ians.in)
--IANS
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Although India overtook the US to become the worlds second largest internet consumer base behind China last year, internet freedom declined slightly in the country, offsetting gains made in 2014 and 2015, a report revealed on Monday.
According to the "Freedom on the Net 2016" report by Freedom House, a US-based think tank, both government and non-governmental entities made efforts to bridge the digital divide in India. After effective digital campaigning, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) introduced strong net neutrality protections in 2016, prohibiting differential pricing by service providers for different content or applications.
"However, other developments undermined internet freedom. Local authorities ordered service providers to temporarily shut down internet access in at least 23 reported incidents in various states. In 2016, the Supreme Court dismissed a petition challenging the use of broad powers provided to state governments under the criminal procedure code to shut down internet services," the report stated.
The Supreme Court also upheld laws criminalising defamation which apply to both online and offline speech.
"Arrests for online activities declined in mid-2015. But arrests increased again during the coverage period of this report (June 2015-May 2016) under other sections of the IT Act and provisions of the penal code. At least 17 people were detained for content circulated on WhatsApp, including group administrators who were not responsible for the content," the report added.
Overall, internet freedom around the world declined in 2016 for the sixth consecutive year. Two-thirds of all internet users -- 67 percent -- live in countries where criticism of the government, military or ruling family are subject to censorship.
"Although there were no reported instances of unlawful surveillance during the reporting period of coverage, this may be due to the extreme opacity of the regulatory framework governing surveillance. In May 2016, officials said the government's Central Monitoring System -- an ambitious nationwide mass surveillance programme -- became operational through regional monitoring centres in New Delhi and Mumbai," the report stated.
In June 2015, journalist Joginder Singh died in Uttar Pradesh when assailants set him on fire after he posted allegations about a local official's wrongdoing on Facebook.
Internet penetration in India continued to increase in 2016 with mobile penetration playing a significant role.
"Inadequate infrastructure remains a significant obstacle to access, especially in rural areas; however, various governmental and non-governmental efforts to improve access nationwide are underway," the report said.
According to the report, social users face unprecedented penalties, as authorities in 38 countries made arrests based on social posts over the past year.
Globally, 27 percent of all internet users live in countries where people have been arrested for publishing, sharing, or merely "liking" content on Facebook. Governments are increasingly going after messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, which can spread information quickly and securely," the report stated.
"Internet freedom has declined for the sixth consecutive year, with more governments than ever before targeting social and communication apps as a means of halting the rapid dissemination of information, particularly during anti-government protests," said Sanja Kelly of Freedom House in a statement.
Public-facing social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter have been subject to growing censorship for several years, but in a new trend, governments increasingly target voice communication and messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Telegram.
These services are able to spread information and connect users quickly and securely, making it more difficult for authorities to control the information landscape or conduct surveillance.
--IANS
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The "Sanghiya Gathabandhana" -- an alliance of 29 Janjati and Madhes-centric parties protesting against the new constitution -- on Monday issued a 15-day ultimatum to Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' to register a proposal for a constitutional amendment that accommodates their demands.
Sanghiya Samajwadi Forum Nepal Chairman Upendra Yadav submitted a reminder letter on the matter to Prachanda at his office in Singha Durbar on behalf of the alliance.
According to a source, Yadav, while handing over the memorandum, said: "The registration of the amendment proposal won't suffice unless it accommodates our opinion. The proposal should be agreeable to us and fulfil our demands.
"We are ready to wait for another 15 days. But the proposal should be agreeable to us."
In response, Prachanda assured him that he was working to register the amendment proposal in a couple of days.
The Madhes-centric parties associated with the alliance have been carrying out a protest movement pressing for fulfilment of thair demands, especially demarcation of the provincial borders, citizenship and proportional inclusive representation based on population, among others.
Noting that the main achievement of the Madhesi movement was the downfall of the K.P. Oli-led government, the 'Sanghiya Gathabandhana' demanded implementation of the agreement signed by the alliance, the Nepali Congress and the Communist Party of Nepal-Unity Centre at the time of the formation of the present government.
The memorandum further stated: "It is necessary to address the important issues as federalism, national identity, representation in the state apparatuses on the basis of population, proportional and inclusive representation, good governance, electoral system, the federal judicial system and elimination of the caste-based, regional and gender-based discrimination and inequality, in such a way that the grievances of the Madhesis and indigenous nationalities, among others, are redressed."
The alliance has also mentioned in the memorandum that it would be compelled to again resort to a protest movement if the amendment proposal is not registered within the set deadline.
(Anil Giri can be contacted at girianil@gmail.com)
--IANS
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Opposition political parties in Goa, the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party, on Monday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a "sham" speech with Congress Rajya Sabha MP Shantaram Naik, accusing Modi of shedding crocodile tears.
"Modi's tears appear to be crocodile tears... his action is like third degree treatment meted out to innocent citizens," Naik told the media at the Congress state headquarters here.
In the course of his speech in Goa on Sunday, Modi appeared to be on the verge of breaking down while referring to sacrifices he had made for the country.
The video of Modi's discomfort during his speech went viral on social media.
"The demonetisation action was clandestinely disclosed by Modi to the Bharatiya Janata Party President, his key party people and industrialists close to the power centre, in advance, so that they could make necessary arrangements to legalise their funds," Naik said as he demanded a probe by the Supreme Court into the demonetising decision-making process.
Naik also said Modi had let the people of India down by virtually giving overt threats from foreign soil in Japan, about tightening up the fiscal processes.
"The threats given by Modi on a foreign soil indicates that he is going to take more stringent steps in future. This is dangerous and it appears that Modi is marching towards imposing fascism in the country," Naik said.
The AAP also said the Prime Minister's speech had more theatrics than substance and that Modi had also mocked the people lining up at banks and ATMs.
"The speech of the Prime Minister in Goa yesterday (Sunday) was mere theatrics and devoid of any serious intent to embark on a correction of the financial chaos unleashed by his unplanned demonetisation scheme," AAP spokesperson Valmiki Naik said.
"Every citizen of India has been autocratically forced into a state of financial emergency, helpless to even meet his or her daily needs to run a house... AAP is shocked that Modi, instead of taking corrective action, is mocking the people lining up at banks and ATMs," he said.
--IANS
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In a swift action on Monday, police in Pakistan's Sialkot city have arrested nine suspects, including prime accused Jajja, for "brutally" torturing a transgender, a media report said.
A case was registered against the suspects belonging to "Tinda Group" after a video showing a transgender person's brutal torture went viral, Dunya News reported.
The prime accused allegedly thrashed the transgender person for organising a function without his permission. Tinda Group has forbidden the transgender community to do any function without its permission.
Police have named 18 suspects in the First Information Report (FIR) while nine of them have been detained so far.
As outcasts, transgender people are often forced into begging, dancing and even prostitution to earn money. They also live in fear of attacks, causing most to either change their names or use only one name to give them anonymity in the society.
--IANS
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New Zealand Prime Minister John Key has called off talks in Argentina this week as his government deals with the aftermath of a deadly earthquake.
Key said on Monday that he had postponed a trip to Buenos Aires on Tuesday for a series of meetings aimed at strengthening New Zealand's trade, economic and political ties with South America, Xinhua news agency reported.
However, he would attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting in Peru on November 19-20 if circumstances permitted.
At least two people were killed when a 7.5-magnitude quake centered on the northeast of the South Island rocked much of New Zealand just after midnight on Sunday.
It has been followed by hundreds of aftershocks.
"The situation is still unfolding and we don't yet know the full extent of the damage," Key said in a statement.
"I believe it is better that I remain in New Zealand in the coming days to offer my assistance and support until we have a better understanding of the event's full impact," he said.
"My officials have conveyed our apologies to the Argentine government and I intend to call President Mauricio Macri in the next few days," Key said.
The decision on whether the trip to APEC would go ahead would be made later this week.
--IANS
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The CPI on Monday demanded an immediate review of the demonetisation of high denomination currency and instead sought action against hoarders of black money.
"If the government is really sincere in curbing a parallel economy based on black money, it should take people into confidence about the WikiLeaks list of Indians holding accounts in foreign banks, the list of those with investment in foreign countries leaked in the Panama leak papers," said a statement by the Communist Party of India.
"The government should take urgent action against such holders of black money," it said.
The party said the new Rs 2,000 notes were causing more difficulty to the people due to shortage of notes of lesser value.
The CPI demanded banks to act against corporate defaulters and publicise the names of those who had made "huge deposits" prior to the announcement of the November 8 demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes.
"There are reports that a large number of people, including leaders of political parties, have deposited crores and crores of rupees in banks in the last month as they were aware (beforehand) of the demonetisation move. Banks should release the list of such depositors at all levels."
--IANS
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US musician and rock and roll legend Leon Russell, who worked with artistes including George Harrison, the Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan, has died. He was 74.
The musician died on Sunday in Nashville, Tennessee. His website quoted his wife, Jan Bridges, as saying that he passed away in his sleep.
He had suffered a heart attack in July, reports variety.com.
Raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Russell had a career of more than 50 years playing southern boogie-inflected piano, writing songs, and producing.
Among the hit songs he wrote were "Delta lady", and "A song for you" recorded by Ray Charles, the Temptations, the Carpenters, Amy Winehouse, and Whitney Houston.
He played piano on the Rolling Stones' "Get a line on you", which he adapted from their "Shine a light" song and had a number one country hit with Willie Nelson performing Elvis Presley's "Heartbreak hotel".
Other notable songs written or performed by him include "This masquerade" and "Superstar" made famous by the Carpenters.
Russell performed at the Concert for Bangladesh with George Harrison and Friends and toured with acts including musical duo Delaney and Bonnie and Friends, Edgar Winter, the New Grass Revival, Willie Nelson, and Elton John.
His piano playing can notably be heard on Badfinger's "Day after day".
He was inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriter's Hall of Fame in 2011.
Musicians quickly took to social media to express their condolences on Sunday. Elton John called Russell a "mentor" and "inspiration".
--IANS
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has warned schools from marking non-Islamic occasions such as Christmas and New Year as holidays.
The ban includes forbidding the schools from providing holidays on such occasions or changing the dates of exams to suit them, Xinhua news agency reported.
The education ministry directed all schools to stick to the academic calendars for exams and holidays. It warned of action against schools that violate the directive.
is a Sunni-conservative state that follows Islamic rules in all walks of life.
Aleppo, Nov 14 (IANS/AKI) Over dozen of religiously devout Shia militants from Pakistan and Afghanistan, three Iranian Revolutionary Guard officers and dozens of Iranian militiamen have died in recent clashes in Syrias northwestern Aleppo province, according to media reports from the region.
Hadi Zahid, a commander of the elite Iranian Revolutionary Guards Quds Force, Zaikr Hussein of the Special Units and Mohamm Ali Mohammed Hosseini, a commander of the Commandos Unit were killed in the recent Aleppo clashes, reported al-Arabiya satellite TV.
The new casualties follow the killing of Iran's state television reporter, Mohsin Khozaia in Aleppo on Saturday, al-Arabiya said. Khozaia been criticized for inciting sectarianism in his journalism.
Meanwhile, rebels in the neighbouring Syrian province of Idlib released a video showing an attack targeting a group of Iranian militias with a thermal rocket killing and injuring scores of them.
More than 3,000 members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards forces have been killed in Syria, according to Iranian Farsi language media outlets.
--IANS/AKI
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Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Monday greeted the people on the occasion of Gurupurab, which marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak.
Gandhi said Guru Nanak was a poet, a nationalist, a social reformer, a philosopher and a preacher who advocated brotherhood of mankind.
"He believed in one god and thus urged us not to support discrimination based on religion, colour, caste and gender. In the basic teachings of Sikhism, he always upheld values of sacrifice, offering, association with virtuous and prayer," Gandhi said in a statement.
--IANS
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Actor Sonu Sood has congratulated legendary actor Jackie Chan, who has been conferred an honorary Oscar.
Sonu on Sunday night shared a post, which read that Chan was feted with the award at the eigth annual Governors Awards on Saturday. The post also read that he is the first Chinese to have received the award, which is given in recognition of "extraordinary achievements" in the film industry.
"The starting point of all achievement is desire! There you are! Heartiest Congratulations. Jackie Chan," Sonu captioned the image.
Sonu will soon be seen sharing screen space with Chan in the upcoming Sino-Chinese film "Kung Fu Yoga".
"Kung Fu Yoga" is a part of the three-film agreement signed between the two countries during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to India.
The film, which is directed by Stanley Tong, also stars actress Amyra Dastur. It is reported that the Hindi film stars have performed some adrenalin-pumping action sequences for the movie.
--IANS
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DMK's M.K. Stalin, Leader of Opposition in Tamil Nadu Assembly, on Monday criticised Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa for not expressing even words of comfort to people suffering cash crunch but focussing on their votes instead.
In a statement issued here, Stalin referring to Jayalalithaa's statement issued on Sunday, said at a time when common people in the state are not able to buy their daily essentials due to currency crunch there is nothing in the Chief Minister's statement alleviating the people's problem or even providing some words of comfort.
Jayalalithaa on Sunday said she had a "rebirth" because of prayers of the people and urged the AIADMK to work for the party's victory in upcoming by-elections.
She said she was waiting to resume normal work after getting well soon.
The 68-year-old Jayalalithaa was admitted to Apollo Hospitals with fever and dehydration on September 22 and is yet to be discharged.
Jayalalithaa in a signed statement urged the AIADMK activists to work hard so that the party candidates won in the November 19 assembly by-elections in Aravakuruchi, Thanjavur and Tiruparankundram constituencies in Tamil Nadu and Nellithope in Puducherry.
Political parties in Tamil Nadu have welcomed the central government's move on November 8 to withdraw legal tender status of 500 and 1,000 rupee notes.
However, they said that people should not be put to trouble in the process.
Stalin had earlier welcomed the central government's move to demonetise 500 and 1,000 rupee notes if it really helped to uplift the country's economy.
Recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's election promise of depositing Rs 15 lakh in each Indian's bank account by recovering the black money stashed overseas, Stalin had said that the promise is yet to be fulfilled.
Similarly, PMK leader and former Union Minister Anbumani Ramadoss welcoming the demonetisation move added that black money stashed outside the country should be brought back within a short period.
He said demonetisation is only one move in attacking black money and it cannot eradicate black money from the system.
AIADMK's spokesperson C.R. Saraswathi said the central government should take steps to ease the trouble faced by the common man to get old invalid notes exchanged.
--IANS
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US President-elect Donald Trump's advisers have dismissed the tens of thousands of protesters on the streets against his election as "professional" disruptors and called on Democratic leaders to tell them to go home, media reported on Monday.
According to Team Trump, President Barack Obama, Democratic leader Hillary Clinton, Senator Bernie Sanders, Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid and other Democrats need to intervene to stop the unrest unfolding from Los Angeles to Manhattan, the New York Post reported.
"The President of the US, Secretary Clinton, Bernie Sanders, perhaps, others can come forward and ask for calm and a peaceful transition and ask their supporters, which are masquerading as protesters now - many of them professional and paid by the way, I'm sure - ask them to give this man a chance so that this country can flourish," said Donald Trump campaign Manager Kellyanne Conway on Sunday.
The appeal comes as more than 3,000 chanting, sign-waving protesters trudged from Union Square to Trump Tower along Manhattan's storied Fifth Avenue with cries of "We reject! The President elect!", joining angry anti-Donald Trump marchers across the country.
Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani said protesters have targeted him and were "banging on my car".
"I'm not sure these are even Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama supporters. I think these people are, you know, kind of like professional protesters," Giuliani said.
Conway specifically singled out Senator Henry Reid for inciting unrest by saying on Friday the responsibility of healing the country belongs with Trump - "a sexual predator who lost the popular vote and fuelled his campaign with bigotry and hate."
"A lot of these protesters are not there peacefully, are not there because they just want to express themselves and make a point or make the difference. They are there for nefarious conditions, they're booing us, spitting on us. They're causing all kinds of havoc."
Obama, Clinton and Sanders have all expressed a desire to work with Trump on a peaceful transition of power but have not condemned the protesters.
New Jersey Senator Cory Booker and Minnesota representative Keith Ellison - an early favourite for Democratic National Committee chairman - said it's the priority of Democrats to exercise their First Amendment rights.
"God bless the protesters," Booker said on NBC's "Meet the Press".
Booker cautioned protesters against "turning to hateful speech, violating principles and ideals that are sacred in this country," Booker said. "We need to raise our voices, but we do not need to indulge in hate."
Ellison called on the protests to "remain peaceful" but urged them to stand strong in the face of "misogyny" and racial divisions.
"These folks are telling Donald Trump that if he tries to move out on his plan to have a deportation squad, to harm Americans, and if he tries to do that, we're going to be there to stand and say no," Ellison added.
--IANS
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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Dhaka cafe which was attacked by Islamic State militants in July this year, was returned to its owner on Sunday following a court order, the city police said.
At least 22 people, mostly foreign nationals, were killed in the July 1 attack on the Holey Artisan Bakery in up-market Gulshan area here.
The police handed over the plot and cafe to Samira Ahmed, whose husband Sadat Mehedi started the Spanish cafe in 2014, Bdnews quoted Dhaka Deputy Commissioner of Police Masudur Rahman as saying.
The cafe in Dhaka's diplomatic district became a popular eatery with foreigners because of its food, lakeside view and grass lawn in the adjacent area.
A pizza corner and an ice-cream parlour were added later.
The militants killed 20 hostages, including 18 foreigners and two policemen, before the Bangladeshi Army stormed the cafe and killed five militants to free remaining 14 hostages.
The control of the cafe was taken over by the police to preserve the evidence of the militants' carnage.
Following the attack, Housing and Public Works Minister Mosharraf Hossain said the owner of the cafe would have to face action for opening it illegally.
A notice, claiming a breach of the lease contract, was also sent to the owner which did not reach her.
The owner later moved court for taking control of the plot and the court issued the order in her favour.
--IANS
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Unidentified warplanes have bombed two hospitals in the northern Syrian city of Aleppo, injuring dozens of people, a war monitoring group said on Monday.
According to Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the airstrikes targeted hospitals in the al-Atarib and Kafr Naya districts, which suffered severe material damages, EFE news reported.
These new bombings came as the pro-government Syrian Arab Army has intensified its operations in Aleppo's western and southwestern countryside following a surge in rebel offensives late in October.
--IANS
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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Pitching for India's message of a lifestyle with minimum carbon footprint, Environment Minister Anil Madhav Dave on Monday said here that wasting food is like being a "carbon criminal" and that soon campaigns will be initiated against it.
"Today is (first Prime Minister Jawaharlal) Nehru Ji's birthday which is Children's Day in Inida. I request children that take only that much food into your plate that you can eat. Please don't waste food. We will soon initiate a movement in our country against wasting food and request other countries to do the same," said Dave, who arrived here ahead of the UN high-level talks at COP22.
He said that the ideology of some societies where leaving some food on the plate is considered "civilsed" has to change.
The minister also quoted an American scholar, stating how total food wasted in the US can feed a small African nation.
"Its not just about feeding a poor. Just imagine the emissions for cooking all that food. How much carbon would've produced," he said.
The minister also lauched a book "Lifestyle for minimum carbon footprint", and gave example of Gandhi, Buddha, Nalsen Mandela and others as an example of life with minimum carbon footprint.
--IANS
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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President-elect Donald Trump said he will deport undocumented immigrants who have "criminal records," a policy that is expected to affect between 1-3 million people.
Trump discussed his plans during an interview with the CBS program "60 Minutes" that will air on Sunday night, Efe news reported.
"What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people, probably two million, it could be even three million, we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate," Trump said.
"But we're getting them out of our country, they're here illegally," he said.
Trump's statements were more measured than during the campaign, when he took a hard-line position on illegal immigration and promised to carry out mass deportations of the estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants in the US.
The 70-year-old president-elect said he planned to first secure the border and would then decide what to do with the rest of the country's undocumented immigrants.
"After the border is secure and after everything gets normalized, we're going to make a determination on the people that they're talking about who are terrific people, they're terrific people but we are gonna make a determination at that," Trump said.
"But before we make that determination ... it's very important, we are going to secure our border."
Trump said building a wall along the US-Mexican border was still a key part of his security plan but he acknowledged that "some fencing" might have to be used along certain stretches.
"For certain areas I would, but certain areas, a wall is more appropriate," Trump said. "I'm very good at this, it's called construction."
--IANS
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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Terming the spiking of Rs 500 and 1,000 currency notes as "a betrayal" of the people, the Shiv Sena on Monday asked whether people would still support Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Comparing the government's secret mission of November 8 to an "economic civil war", the Sena - a member of the ruling National Democratic Alliance at the centre and in Maharashtra - said Modi had already dropped one bomb by the demonetization.
Questioning Modi's claims that the people of the country had "blessed" him for the demonetisaton step, the Sena said it was "sheer betrayal of the masses who blessed and voted him to power in 2014", said an editorial in the party mouthpieces "Saamana" and "Dopahar ka Saamana".
"In order to extract the black money from a handful of industrialists, the Modi government has thrown 125 crore people on the streets. They are crowding outside banks, ATMs to get back their own money, waiting in long queues without food, water and some have even died in the process," it pointed out.
"At one stroke, the government has sacrificed 125 crores at the altar of black money - are all these people corrupt and black money hoarders? How many were found standing in the queues with bundles of unaccounted Rs 500 and 1,000 notes?"
The Sena said it fully supported the drive against black money but the manner in which the Modi government had implemented this scheme had led to economic anarchy in the country.
--IANS
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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Leaders of Opposition parties on Monday gathered in Parliament for a meeting to decide their strategy for the winter session of Parliament that begins on Wednesday. The ruling National Democratic Alliance also had its meeting. The man of the moment might be Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was even congratulated for his bold demonetisation move by journalists, but competing for limelight was the lone ATM on the Parliament House premises. There was no rush at the machine as Parliament House has little or no access to the public. Politicians, Parliament House staff and journalists took the opportunity to stand in short queues to withdraw cash from the machine.
Parliamentary Party Executive, comprising top brass including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief Amit Shah, will meet on Monday to chalk out its strategy for the Winter Session of Parliament starting on Wednesday with the Opposition keen to target the government over issues like demonetisation and One Rank One Pension.
Congress and TMC leaders are meeting in New Delhi on Monday evening to chalk out a united fight during the Winter Session of Parliament, commencing on November 16, against the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes by the Narendra Modi-led government.
The Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad, and Congress leader in Lok Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, would be meeting the Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Sudip Bandyopadhyay ahead of an all-party meeting convened by Speaker Sumitra Mahajan on Monday, opposition sources said.
TMC leader Derek O'Brien is also likely to be present at the meeting. It was not immediately clear whether other opposition parties have been invited.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had on Sunday spoken to Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi and CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury, besides several other opposition leaders, and mooted the idea of a united fight against the Centre's demonetisation move.
Congress leaders too had reached out to several parties, including TMC to chalk out a joint strategy ahead of the Winter Session of Parliament.
The Congress and TMC, besides other opposition parties like CPM, CPI, SP and BSP have targeted the government, accusing it of taking the decision in haste and without proper planning and caution, leading to harassment of the common man.
Keeping their differences aside, various Opposition parties met on Monday to find ways to corner the Narendra Modi-led government over demonetisation in the winter session of Parliament. Anchored by the Congress, the meeting of eight Opposition parties saw sworn enemies such as Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) on the same page against the Centres decision, which they termed anti-people and responsible for unleashing economic anarchy.
Keeping their differences aside, Opposition parties met on Monday to find ways to corner the government over demonetisation in the winter session of . Anchored by the Congress, the meeting of eight Opposition parties saw sworn enemies such as Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) on the same page against the Centres decision, which they termed anti-people and responsible for unleashing economic anarchy.
Bharatiya Janata Party MP Subramanian Swamy on Sunday criticised the Finance Ministry alleging "lack of preparedness" in dealing with the demonetisation of two high-value currencies and said the ministry not being in loop of decision-making is "no excuse".
In a setback to Congress ahead of November 19 by-poll for Shahdol (ST) Lok Sabha constituency, over 100 of its workers today joined BJP in the presence of Madhya Pradesh Industries Minister Rajendra Shukla.
"Over 100 Congressmen joined the ruling party in the presence of Industries Minister in Jaisinghnagar Assembly segment," according to a BJP release.
"They joined the BJP after getting influenced by party's works and policies," it claimed.
Jaisinghnagar is the part of Shahdol Lok Sabha seat.
Welcoming them into the party fold, Shukla asked them to work for the victory of BJP candidate Gyan Singh.
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Eleven Middle East and North African countries are accusing Iran of sponsoring "terrorism" and constantly interfering in the internal affairs of Arab nations, sparking tension and instability in the region.
In a letter to the UN General Assembly circulated today, the 11 countries cited Iran's support for Shiite Houthi rebels in Yemen and the Shiite Hezbollah group in Lebanon which has sent fighters to support the Syrian government.
They also accused Iran of supporting "terrorist groups and cells" in Bahrain, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and elsewhere.
They reiterated a statement by Bahrain's foreign minister in September that the only way forward is for Iran "to comprehensively change its foreign policies and end hostilities."
The letter, organised by the United Arab Emirates, was signed by Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan, among others.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
As many as 12 countries will participate in biennial agro-technology and business fair, CII Agro Tech 2016, starting from November 19.
The 12th edition of CII Agro Tech 2016 to be inaugurated by President Pranab Mukherjee along with Israel President Reuven Rivlin as the Guest of Honour on November 20 will showcase latest advancements in the farming technology for both businesses and visiting farmers, said a CII release.
The 12 countries which are participating in the fair include US, Denmark, Turkey, Israel, Spain, Italy, Canada, the Netherlands, Germany, the UK, China and South Africa.
International participation is the major attraction with countries displaying latest technologies, products and services, new launches and live demonstrations of innovations happening in the industry, it said.
Among the prominent experts to share their experiences in the industry include Agri-Tech specialist, Luis Mulet from UK who will be attending the fair and providing collaboration and partnering opportunities in the areas of Animal Science, Plant Science and Precision Agriculture.
A special session on India-Canada partnership in Agriculture is a major highlight of the fair, which will be attended by Jeff Leal, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Province of Ontario, Canada, release said.
UK, which has one of the most highly regarded agricultural technology sectors in the world, will be participating in CII Agro Tech 2016 for the first time.
The partner country this time is Israel, while focus countries are Canada and Germany while guest country is Great Britain.
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The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) today seized 3.4 kg charas, estimated to be worth Rs 34 lakh in the international market, from Kathia-Mathia village under Sikta police station of West Champaran district, police said.
An SSB team seized the contraband from a place near pillar number 406/13 in the village.
The smuggler, who was on a motorcycle, fled from the spot after seeing the SSB jawans, police said.
The SSB handed over the seized contraband and the motorcycle to the police.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
LIMA - Peru and China are in the right time to further promote their economic ties to higher level, said Peruvian economist ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to the South American country.
"The most important task is now to consolidate the advances in economic relations made since Peru and China began their free-trade agreement (FTA) in 2010," said Peruvian economist Fernando Gonzalez.
In terms of China's vision of Peru, the director of the APEC Studies Center, explained that "China has a very clear strategy based on continued results, boosting its own production chain for industry and services, and seeing ever more sophisticated technological development."
"China is a country of high efficiency. These capacities are not limited to production but extend to how to make pragmatic public policies," added Gonzalez.
He said that, after the visit of Peru's Pedro Pablo Kuczynski to China in September and the upcoming visit by President Xi Jinping to Lima in November, the two countries "must resolve any problems that remain and focus on the fundamentals."
According to Gonzalez, both sides need to improve cooperation in mining areas and allow China's ICBC bank to open up more financial services in the country.
Moving on to the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP), Gonzalez said this was an initiative to minimize divisions within the region and help to create one large free-trade zone.
"This is a project that unites China and the US, and it drives to work together while managing their rivalries in the most civilized possible. This is the central topic for the future of the Asia-Pacific, for peace and prosperity in the region," he continued.
It would essentially unite the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), between ASEAN, and six other Pacific economies, and the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).
The academic concluded that "it is an honor for Peru to host the one more step of the Beijing Roadmap being taken this year."
Stating that around four lakh trucks are stranded in various parts of the country, the apex transporters body AIMTC today demanded immediate increasing of cash withdrawal limit from ATMs and banks to avoid crisis.
All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC), claiming to have 93 lakh truckers, 50 lakh buses and tourist taxi and cab operators under its fold, said at least eight lakh drivers and conductors were severely impacted in the wake of de-legalizing of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes.
"Our about 4 lakh trucks are stranded across India with about 8 lakh drivers and conductors severely hit. The sudden ban on higher denomination notes have made them stand in long queques before banks in different parts. The withdrawal limit is minuscule with ATMs at many places not working and paralysing the transport business," AIMTC president Bhim Wadhwa told PTI.
Demanding immediate increasing of withdrawal limits, Wadhwa warned that essential supplies like milk, vegetables, fruits and medicines would be impacted.
The drivers and tourists who are en route do not have ample cash in hand and are starving on the highways with no help coming from any quarter, he said.
"The road transport fraternity of India is facing its worst crisis with the banning of higher denomination notes," he said, adding, this despite transport being the highest taxpayer to the exchequer.
AIMTC said that in the last fiscal, contribution of the Road transport to GDP was 4.8 per cent, which amounted to Rs 5,44,800 crore annually or Rs 1,492 crore per day.
"Eighty per cent of the transport operations cost is cash based. This implies Rs 1,194 crore is required on a daily basis by the transport sector for its operations. As per the finance Act section - 6D(d) of IT Act, Rs 35,000 per truck per trip cash is allowed for en route expenses. A small operator having 10 trucks would require up to Rs 3,50,000 cash per day to tide over his requirement, which is unsustainable under the present cap," it said.
With acute liquidity and financial crunch, the transportation services are poised to come to a standstill, Wadhwa said.
He also said export-imports of the country was likely to be hit due to disruption in movement of vehicles to and from the ports. Besides, transporting raw materials to the industries and finished goods to the distribution centres would also get affected.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A special vigilance court today sentenced a former assistant engineer to five years in prison in a disproportionate assets case under the Bihar Special Courts Act, 2009.
Special judge Ravindra Nath Tripathi handed out the sentence to Mukteshwar Ram, who worked in the building construction department, for amassing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income to the tune of Rs 35.36 lakh.
The court also slapped a fine of Rs 10 lakh on Ram, failing which he would serve a jail term for one more year.
The Vigilance Department had filed the charge sheet against the engineer on October 6, 1998.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had come out with Bihar Special Courts Act, 2009 with much fanfare with a provision to confiscate properties of the corrupt officials.
Earlier, properties of four such officials were confiscated in Patna and on them schools were set up.
Besides the money, the Vigilance Department had seized documents for three houses owned by Ram - one in Patna and two in Bhagalpur.
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The security survey of the terminal-II of the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) has been completed with security agencies projecting deployment of at least 600 armed CISF personnel to secure the facility from where two domestic airlines will operate.
The survey was conducted by a joint team of Central security agencies, Central Industrial Security Force, Delhi Police and Bureau of Civil Aviation (BCAS), giving a thumbs up for a limited number of operations and flights to be operationalised from December last or early January from here, sources said.
They said control access, deployment of gadgets like X-ray machines and scanners, security 'morchas' and installation of CCTV positions have been analysed and this will require deployment of at least 600 CISF personnel.
"A report in this regard has been sent to the Union Home Ministry," they said.
They said the force will also deploy its vehicle-borne quick reaction teams to respond to any terror-like or any other such attempt.
Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), the joint venture firm which runs the Delhi airport, plans to expand Terminal 1 to a much bigger facility.
At present, budget carriers Indigo, SpiceJet and GoAir operate their domestic flights from T1.
The Civil Aviation ministry had earlier this year cleared a proposal from Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) to revive the defunct T2 and move operations of two private airlines from Terminal 1 to allow it carry out expansion work. The work is expected to be completed in the next two years.
SpiceJet and GoAir are likely to move their operations to T2 once it gets functional while IndiGo is expected to continue its flight services from T1.
International flights used to operate from T1 before the commissioning of the existing swanky T3.
CISF is the mandated central force to secure country's civil airports and at present it provides cover to 59 such facilities including the terminal-I and terminal-III of the IGIA.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Pakistan today said at least seven of its soldiers were killed in "unprovoked" firing by Indian troops across the LoC following which Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif asserted that the country is "fully capable" of defending its territory against "any aggression".
Seven Pakistani soldiers were killed at the LoC in the Bhimber sector in an alleged ceasefire violation by Indian troops late last night, according to a statement by the army.
Pakistani troops responded to "unprovoked" Indian firing and targeted Indian posts "effectively", it said.
Sharif expressed grief over the loss of lives in the "latest violation of Line of Control (LoC) by the Indian forces" and said "it is extremely unfortunate that Indian forces have continuously violated ceasefire agreement at the LoC in the recent days", Press Information Department Pakistan said.
"We are fully capable of defending our soil against any aggression," it quoted Sharif as saying.
The Prime Minister also claimed that the Indian forces have resorted to escalating tension on the LoC only to "uselessly divert" the world's attention from the "grave human rights situation" in Kashmir.
So far, mostly civilian have been killed in the firing on Pakistani side of the LoC.
Pakistan Foreign Office last week said that the civilian death toll from alleged Indian shelling has risen to at least 25 in the past few weeks.
(Reopens FGN20)
Pakistan's Advisor to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz also condemned the "unprovoked Indian firing" on the LoC, Foreign Office (FO) said
"He (Aziz) expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed," it said, adding that Aziz expressed grave concern over the recently increased frequency and duration of indiscriminate firing/shelling "from the Indian side, deliberately targeting villages and civilian populated areas".
FO said that Pakistan is urging the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) to send an urgent report to the UN Security Council to inform them about the serious ceasefire violations on the LoC and the unwarranted escalation of tension between the two countries.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, responding to the latest development along the shared Pak-India border, claimed that India was heating up the situation along the LoC and Working Boundary due to internal compulsions, Radio Pakistan reported.
The defence minister said it was regrettable that "certain extremist elements which had come into power in India could become a source of destruction not only for their own country but the whole region".
Asif urged the global community to take notice of "Indian provocations against Pakistan" as any escalation of tension between the two nuclear armed neighbours could prove catastrophic for the whole region.
He added that Pakistan is using diplomatic and international forums to highlight Indian "belligerence".
Pakistan army today said at least seven of its soldiers were killed in firing allegedly by Indian troops across the Line of Control.
Seven Pakistani soldiers were killed at the LoC in the Bhimber sector in an alleged ceasefire violation by Indian troops late last night, the army said in a statement.
Pakistani troops responded to "unprovoked" Indian firing and targeted Indian posts effectively, it said.
So far mostly civilian have been killed in the firing on Pakistani side of the LoC.
Pakistan Foreign Office last week said that the civilian death toll from alleged Indian shelling has risen to at least 25 in the past few weeks.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An alliance of 29 Madhes and other small parties today gave a 15-day deadline to Prime Minister Prachanda to table a proposal in Parliament to amend the new Constitution to address their grievences.
Sanghiya Gathabandhan of Janjati and Madhes parties have been protesting against the new Constitution, saying it marginalises them.
Sanghiya Samajwadi Forum Nepal Chairman Upendra Yadav submitted a reminder letter on the matter to Prachanda at his office in Singha Durbar on behalf of the alliance.
A source close to Prachanda quoted Yadav as saying: "The registration of the amendment proposal won't suffice unless it accommodates our opinion. The proposal should be agreeable to us and fulfil our demands."
"We are ready to wait for another 15 days. But the proposal should be agreeable to us," Yadav told Prachanda.
In reply, the Prime Minister assured that he was working to register the amendment proposal in couple of days.
Yadav's 15-day deadline has left the other leaders affiliated to Madhesi Morcha shocked as they have been reiterating that they would launch another protest if the amendment proposal was not registered by mid-November.
They said that Yadav did not discuss about the 15-day ultimatum. With Yadav's new deadline, Morcha leaders, who have started boycotting Parliament meeting from Friday, have been left in perplexing situation.
"We now face a moral question on what role would we play in upcoming House meetings," a Morcha leader expressed his rue.
Prachanda last week had said that the amendment proposal would be tabled in the parliament before the current Nepali month 'Kartik' ends on November 15.
The minority, mostly of Indian-origin, has led months- long violent protest seeking better representation in the Parliament and the federal structure of the Constitution that divides their ancestral homeland.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Fernando Alonso threatened to deliberately drive into Sebastian Vettel next time they are competing to teach him a lesson about his on-track conduct.
The two-time world champion plans to ensure that the under-fire German understands that "the track belongs to everybody" after the pair clashed during Sunday's rain-hit and tempestuous Brazilian Grand Prix.
The McLaren-Honda driver and the four-time champion Ferrari racer were fighting for seventh position when Vettel attempted to pass Alonso on the inside at Turn 11.
Alonso said he was forced off the circuit by Vettel and had to run off to avoid contact and thereby conceded a position.
"There was an asphalt run-off and I used it and nothing happened, but if there's a wall there, I either drive into the wall or into him, which is what I will probably do next time," raged Alonso.
"I'll crash into him and he will lose more points than me."
He added: "It's okay. You just use the asphalt run-off and that's it, but one day we'll have to drive into him so he realises that the track belongs to everybody."
Alonso went on to finish 10th after a costly spin following one of the re-starts relegated him to the back of the field.
Vettel, who was involved in a foul-mouthed rant on the closing laps of last month's Mexican Grand Prix, finished fifth after another embittered encounter with Max Verstappen of Red Bull, who passed him on his way to third.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Shocked by the murder of Dainik Bhaskar journalist Dharmendra Kumar Singh by unidentified assailants at Amra in on Saturday, the state press fraternity condemned the incident and urged the Nitish Kumar government to bring justice to the aggrieved family.
Singh was gunned down by unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants on Saturday morning, making it the second murder of a journalist in the state in the past six months.
In a joint statement issued on Monday, the Arunachal Press Club (APC), Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) and Arunachal Electronic Media Association (AEMA) expressed deep shock at the killing of the journalist who took on powerful local mafia on many occasions through his work.
The fraternity termed the incident as cowardice and an attempt to muzzle freedom of speech.
It urged the government to come up with a mechanism to protect scribes in the state so that crusaders of freedom of speech should not be cowed down.
"Murder of journalist reflects the law and order situation of a state, it is the duty of the government of to protect the press fraternity and ensure safety of all scribes in the state," the press bodies stated in a condemnation statement.
It also said that perpetrators should be brought to justice and be awarded exemplary punishment, so that it sends message across the board.
Expressing solidarity with media fraternity in Bihar as well as the aggrieved family, APC, APUWJ and AEMA stated that courageous and fierce writings of Singh will embolden and inspired working journalists across the India.
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange will be questioned by prosecutors today about allegations concerning possible sex crimes committed in Sweden six years ago.
Assange will be interviewed at the Ecuadorean Embassy in London where he sought refuge more than four years ago, Swedish officials said. He will be questioned by an Ecuadorean prosecutor in the presence of Swedish prosecutor Ingrid Isgren and a Swedish police investigator.
Prosecutors plan to ask Assange to consent to providing a DNA sample.
Swedish officials are seeking information related to allegations of serious sex crimes made by two Swedish women he met in 2010. He hasn't been indicted.
Assange has denied the sex crime allegations and says he fears being extradited to the US because of his WikiLeaks work. It isn't known if he faces a secret grand jury indictment in the US.
The sex crime allegations were made shortly after Assange and WikiLeaks became well known worldwide for releasing hundreds of thousands of pages of classified government documents.
One Swedish woman said Assange intentionally damaged a condom and pinned her down while having sex. A second woman said Assange had sex with her without a condom while she was asleep.
In Sweden, having sex with an unconscious, drunk or sleeping person can lead to a rape conviction punishable by up to six years in prison.
A Swedish investigation into the crimes was launched, then dropped for lack of evidence, and then started again as prosecutors sought to question Assange about possible molestation and rape.
By then Assange was in Britain, making it harder for Swedish prosecutors to question him. They sought an international arrest warrant for him that was issued in November 2010.
Assange surrendered to police in London and was freed on bail, receiving support from a wide range of celebrities including filmmakers Oliver Stone and Michael Moore.
He then moved into the Ecuadorean Embassy in London in June 2012, putting him out of reach of British authorities.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
At least 10 people were killed and several injured today when Nigerian police opened fire during clashes with pro-Iranian Shiites outside northern Kano, the latest round of violence involving the group, witnesses and police said.
Violence broke out when police tried to disperse thousands of members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) marching from Kano in Kano state, to Zaria in Kaduna state -- where they have been banned -- for the Ashura religious festival.
There have been several incidents of sectarian violence involving the IMN in the past year in Nigeria, with Sunni Muslim mobs attacking Shiite ceremonies just in recent weeks.
"The police arrived and started firing teargas canisters on the procession of Shiites to disperse them," grocer Ilyasu Ammani told AFP.
"I saw 15 bodies sprawled on the ground before the police evacuated them," he added of the violence in Kwanar Dawaki on the outskirts of Kano.
Witness Kabiru Mudassir said he saw more than "10 bodies being taken away in a police van."
Nigerian police said they opened fire on the IMN crowd, who were armed with bows and arrows, after one of their officers was hurt.
"They injured one of our officers and our men opened fire because they were becoming violent," said a police officer who asked to remain anonymous.
"Thousands of Shiite members obstructed motorists on the highway, they disturbed innocent motorists," Kano state police commissioner Rabiu Yusuf said at a press conference.
"Shiite members armed with bows and arrows and some dangerous weapons killed one policeman and injured three others," Yusuf said. "Eight Shiite members were seriously injured. They were taken to hospital and were confirmed dead."
The violence comes just over a month since 10 IMN members -- who were also in the streets for religious celebrations -- were killed in the town of Funtua in northern Katsina state following clashes with security forces.
In October, Kano police banned IMN from conducting street processions ahead of the annual Ashura rites.
In the days before, prominent Kaduna state governor Nasir El-Rufai had banned the group as an "unlawful society", saying it was a security threat and calling for security forces to "vigorously" arrest its members.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Australian umpire Sam Nogajski today discontinued officiating in a Ranji Tropy match between Uttar Pradesh and Mumbai, as he was hospitalized for dehydration with his Indian counterpart Virender Sharma doing duty from both ends.
The Aussie umpire complained of stomach ache and vomiting before the start of the second day's play here and was admitted to a local hospital as a precautionary measure.
"The umpire has been admitted in a local hospital at 7 am after he complained of loose motion and stomach ache. The doctors attending him said it is a case of dehydration," KSCA Mysuru Convener Balachandra told PTI here.
Earlier, KSCA officials were optimistic of Nogajski making a comeback post-lunch session, but a report issued by the hospital authorities suggested complete rest.
"We were hopeful of Nogajski making a comeback and officiating from post-lunch session, but the doctors, in their bulletin, advised Nagojski complete rest," Balachandra said.
"It also means he will not officiate in the match any further," he added.
The doctors have advised Nogajski to visit Bengaluru for treatment, Balachandra said.
"Nogajski will be taken to Bengaluru tomorrow where he will be again put under medical observation."
Replying to a query, Balchandra said a local umpire has been replaced, but he is officiating only as leg umpire, whereas Virendra Sharma is officiating from both ends of the wicket.
"A local umpire has been replaced, but officiating as a leg umpire. Virendra Sharma is officiating from both ends as straight umpire," he said.
This is not the first time an umpire has officiated from both ends of the wicket, Balachandra said.
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Bangladesh police today announced a bounty of 1 lakh Taka for information leading to the arrest or capture of the attackers of Hindu temples and homes amid mounting protests demanding stern action against the culprits.
"We have announced a bounty amounting Taka 1 lakh (USD 1250) for information about whereabouts of the culprits," Brahmanbaria's police superintendent Mizanur Rahman told PTI.
He added that 78 suspected attackers were so far arrested after detailed investigations but Hindu leaders and civil society feared that several masterminds remained beyond the ambit of law enforcement agencies.
The development came amid speculation that the attacks on Hindu temples and households were staged at Nasirnagar area of the district as part of a conflict between two influential groups of ruling Awami League.
"It appears that the culprits were hired to stage the attacks to harm the reputation of the other group," an official in Nasirnagar told PTI requesting anonymity.
Authorities have launched an intensified campaign to track down the culprits after home minister Asaduzzaman Khan warned that none of the attackers will be spared.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had also urged the people to stand with religious minorities.
"As a Muslim-majority country it is the moral responsibility of all of us to take care of the minorities," she told a conference at her office.
She added: "You have to remain careful so that no such incidents, which are taking place sporadically in different parts of the country, take place anywhere in the country."
Suspected Muslim extremists had earlier this month carried out two subsequent attacks ravaging nearly a dozen Hindu temples and over 20 households at Nasirnagar area of Brahmanbaria over an offensive Facebook post.
The Hindu community leaders and civil society activists staged a series of protests in the capital and other major cities blasting the administration for failure to protect the minority community.
The statutory National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) had said that the attacks on Hindu temples and households were carried out under a well orchestrated plan.
Hindu community leaders earlier said the attacks were carried out to evict Hindus from their own land creating an atmosphere of fear.
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Banks across several states remained closed today being a public holiday further escalating the six-day cash crisis following the withdrawal of high-value notes and exacerbating the agony of those in desperate need to get even small amounts of money.
Though banks were open mainly in the southern states there was no relief for people as they had to wait for hours to get new notes or deposit the scrapped currency.
Cash-strapped people started making a beeline outside ATMs from early morning but with limited success as most of the cash vending machines are running dry and weren't refilled with money.
People queued up outside ATMs early in the morning but had to return disappointed as shutters at many locations were down amid growing scuffles and heated exchanges. Today was a holiday on the occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti.
Patience of citizens wore thin as people continued to face hardship in withdrawing cash from ATMs, braving long queues, accessing health facilities at hospitals and commuting in public transport in the national capital on a bank holiday that added to their woes.
Many sections of the society including grocery shop owners, small traders, restaurant owners, are further feeling the heat as their dependence on cash is very high.
Commuters also had a harrowing time, as lack of Rs 100 notes continued to cripple transaction with taxi operators, auto-rickshaw drivers and other public transport providers.
A pre-paid city-run taxi counter at Delhi Airport, which other wise draws good number of passengers, today wore a deserted look.
"People are not coming to book 'kali-pili' taxis with us, as they do not have ready cash, and we are not in a position to accept Rs 500 or Rs 1,000 notes," a staff at the counter said.
"This is becoming unbearable now. How long can we afford to be in the queue to get money which we toiled to earn. My family is on the verge of starvation," said Damodar Kamble, who tried his luck to exchange money this morning at an ATM in suburban Vikhroli in Mumbai.
Many customers made it to ATMs as early as 5 AM in anticipation of procuring few precious Rs 100 notes. There were also reports that many ATMs ran out of cash within hours of becoming operational.
A housewife in Kurla, Shweta, said, "This has become a horror. It's sad..People are dying, fighting while waiting in queues."
Banks and ATMs across Tamil Nadu continued to witness long queues of people waiting to exchange defunct Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes and withdraw cash today even as bankers and post office personnel struggled to ease the situation.
Angry customers who were waiting for long hours to withdraw cash, pelted stones at an ATM in suburban Ponneri in Chennai as it ran out of cash, police said.
In Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah took stock of the prevailing situation in the state in the wake of demonetisation of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes by the central government.
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Unlike in the rest of the country, banks remained open in Mizoram today and long queues were seen before them like the other days since demonetisation.
People lined up to withdraw money from the banks through cheques and green channels as also from ATMs, while many waited the exchange the now demonetised high value currency notes.
Big and small businessmen are facing difficulty due to shortage of cash in the banks as well as in the market.
Assistant general manager of the State Bank of India, Aizawl branch, Pradip Kumar Sen said of the 85 ATMs across the state, only 25 could dispense cash.
Of the 46 ATMs in Aizawl city, only nine ATMs could dispense cash, he said.
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Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatna (SSS), a partner in the BJP-led Maharashtra government, has alleged misuse of powers over slapping of an externment order against one of its key functionaries in Buldhana district.
Devendra Bhuyar, who heads Vidarbha region of the pro-farmer oufit, received the order of externment under the Bombay Police Act last week in a case of alleged extortion and obstruction of government work.
As per the notice, he has been barred from entering Buldhana district for the next two years.
Under the provisions of the Bombay Police Act, police prepares the externment order, which is then sent to the revenue department for approval following which it is forwarded to the IG, after whose approval it is implemented by the district police.
The decision has not only irked local workers of SSS, but also the entire organisation which supported BJP during the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections of 2014.
Notably, Sadabhau Khot, sole SSS member in the state Legislative Council, is Minister of State for Horticulture and Marketing.
Raju Shetti, SSS's founder and two-time MP, said, "This is nothing but misuse of power and unfortunately, the current government is also using the state machinery for its own purpose. I am not going to accept such treatment of my party workers, who fight for people but end up getting ill-treated over petty political grounds."
Though none of the SSS leaders and party functionaries named the trouble makers, some of them claimed that local BJP leaders considered Bhuyar a threat.
"I have been working as SSS worker for a long time and through my hard work I have been elevated to the post of Vidarbha chief of the SSS. Our insistence for better returns to cotton crop and soyabean has received support of farmers and the organisation is growing in Vidarbha region. The organisation's popularity is the real problem to some leaders, who ensured that I get notice of externment," Bhuyar told PTI today.
If such acts continue, BJP would be in trouble because it does not have a good support in rural areas unlike SSS, he said.
Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatna was started in Kolhapur district. It focussed on Western Maharashtra initially by launching agitations for getting better sugarcane price.
In last few years, Shetti began tapping other areas of the state such as Vidarbha and Marathwada, where cash crops like cotton and soyabean are largely cultivated.
Shetti along with his party workers recently met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis requesting recall of the order against Bhuyar.
"In the first meeting, CM appeared to be positive. I am meeting him again to ensure that the state administration is not used against us," he added.
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Former sarpanch of Allika village in Palwal District of Haryana was gunned down by three assailants who came in a car at Baroli this evening, police said.
Bharat Singh (52) was on his way back to Allika in a car with one Digambar after having a dip in the Ganga river at Garhmukteshwar nearby when the incident happened.
RK Sharma, SHO, Syana police station, under whose jurisdiction the incident occurred, said enmity during panchayat elections is believed to be reason behind the attack.
Digambar too is injured in the attack and is being treated at Community Health Centre at Syana Town.
No Complaint has yet been filed with the police.
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A yellow taxi driver was arrested after a lady and her child were allegedly driven away by him from her home following an argument over Rs 10 coin change.
A senior Kolkata Police officer said the accused driver Kallol Chakroborty (49) allegedly stepped up the accelerator after the woman Mayurakshi Mitra had an argument with the driver for not accepting a Rs 10 coin.
The arguments broke after Mitra and her little daughter reached their New Alipore residence from South City Shopping Mall in the taxi and was paying the metered fare.
As the lady protested the driver's behaviour and comments, the man allegedly suddenly started driving at high speed along Diamond Harbour Road and reached Behala ignoring her screams, the officer said.
A group of youths, sitting on road corner, forced the driver to stop, took out the frightened lady and her child and handed over the driver to the police after thrashing him.
Deputy Commissioner, 1st battalion, KP, Biswajit Ghosh said since the driver allegedly misbehaved with the woman and stopped her from disembarking in New Alipore police station area, he was taken to custody by the respective police station.
However, the car was impounded by adjacent Behala police station since it was intercepted in that area, the DC said.
The driver was being questioned based on the woman's account of events.
There had been a number of complaints against yellow taxis and mobile based application service cabs of misbehaviour with passengers, including women, in the city in past few months.
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Veteran filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan has criticised censorship in cinema, saying it is "totally unwanted" and feels television programmes are the ones which should be censored.
Many television programmes, especially soap operas, are even showcasing crime on prime time after giving prior announcement, the 75-year-old Dadasaheb Phalke awardee said.
He also questioned the display of anti-smoking and liquor messages on the movie screen and said if smoking and drinking were injurious to health, it should be banned. "There is no need for cinema to bear its burden," he said.
"I personally feel that there is no need for censorship. It is totally unwanted. I do not think vulgarity galore in films, if there is no censorship," the "Vidheyan" director said.
Pointing out the need of imposing censorship for TV programmes, the director said many channels are crossing their limits to get maximum viewership and rating.
"Television is more influential than cinema now-a-days. But, the present situation is that anything can be shown on TV and there is no censorship," he said adding such programmes were giving a wrong lesson to viewers.
However, he said censorship had never posed any problem to him in any of his 12 films so far.
Adoor wanted the state government to implement the recommendations submitted to it by the panel, headed by himself, two years ago to revamp Malayalam cinema.
The subsidy, given to filmmakers, should be enhanced according to the requirements and cost of the present day industry, he said.
"Maharashtra government is giving a lot of encouragement to promote cinema. It has helped for the release of a handful of good Marathi cinema in the last 10 years," he said adding Kerala government should learn lessons from it and give more support to Malayalam films.
A grading system should be implemented for state theatres and e-ticketing system should be launched there, he said.
He suggesting setting up a a Kerala State Film Authority, comprising representatives of state government and cinema to deal with issues related to the industry.
The multiple National and state award winner also said digital technology had not cut down the production cost of films but helped to avoid complexities in its making.
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Noting that many projects get stalled due to delay in submission of detailed project reports (DPRs), Union Minister Jitendra Singh today said the government was considering simplifying the process to ensure timely implementation of centrally sponsored schemes.
"The government is considering simplifying the detailed project report process as most of the times projects are delayed due to delay in submission of DPR," he said, chairing a meeting of District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) to review the progress of various centrally sponsored schemes in Ramban.
He said provision would be made for online submission of DPR to reduce delay in approval from various offices.
The Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office directed the authorities to submit utilisation certificates in time for timely release of funds.
Singh asked the Deputy Commissioner to fix timeline for electrification of all villages.
He asked the departments to submit reports in writing in every meeting so that people's representatives could be made aware about the ongoing programme in their respective areas.
Speaking on the issue of developing many areas in the district into religious-cum-tourist destination, Singh said a comprehensive plan should be made in consultation with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to develop Ghora Gali as heritage point.
To provide benefits of all centrally sponsored schemes to the people, he asked the officers to reach out to the people and conduct special awareness camps to spread awareness about the schemes including 'Start-up India, Stand Up India', 'Atal Pension Yojana' and 'Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana'.
After the legislators raised the issue of inconvenience caused to the people after the demonetisation of 500, 1,000 rupee notes, Singh assured them of opening additional counters at banks working in the district so that the people can easily withdraw new notes and exchange old ones.
The meeting had a comprehensive review of progress achieved under various projects and laid stress on timely completion of ongoing works.
DDC apprised the committee of the current status of all centrally sponsored schemes being executed in the district.
The Minister was told that under the Swachh Bharat
Mission, 901 individual household latrine units and eight community toilets have been constructed in the district till October.
Besides, about 88.82 per cent expenditure has been registered in the district under the mission.
The meeting was informed that 11 buildings of different middle schools have been upgraded to high schools whereas work on upgradation of 20 middle schools is in progress.
Besides, tenders have been floated for implementation of Deen Dayal Upadhyay Gram Jyoti Yojana.
This will help provide round-the-clock power and 100 per cent electrification to rural households.
The minister asked officers of various departments to put in concerted efforts and work with synergy to ensure completion of works within stipulated time.
"Public must be encouraged to play their role in the successful completion of these schemes and avail their optimum benefit," he said.
Chicago on Monday joined several major US cities in affirming that it will remain a "sanctuary city" for immigrants, in defiance of President-elect Donald Trump.
Los Angeles, New York, Seattle and San Francisco have made similar affirmations since Trump's election on Tuesday, vowing to refuse to jail undocumented immigrants in jail for deportation purposes and pledging that public services will continue to be offered regardless of legal status.
"To all the children and all the families who are unsure of their place because of what happened Tuesday," Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel said at a press conference.
"You are safe, you are secure and you are supported in the city of Chicago."
Emanuel, a Democrat who was chief of staff during President Barack Obama's first term, said young undocumented people in particular will still be able to go to school and qualify for free community college education.
"That speaks volumes to where our values are," he said.
Trump, a Republican, campaigned on a promise to deport millions of undocumented immigrants. In an interview that aired on the CBS "60 Minutes" news program over the weekend, Trump said he plans to immediately deport or jail as many as three million immigrants with criminal records, upon taking office.
"What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people -- probably two million, it could be even three million -- we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate," Trump said.
Experts estimate there are as many as 11 million foreigners living illegally in the United States, many of them Central and Southern Americans long-established in the country.
Since 2009, the Obama administration has deported 2.4 million immigrants from the country. But Obama has also offered a reprieve to young people who were brought to the US by their parents -- so-called "Dreamers." By executive order, he granted them temporary residency rights, allowing them to go to school and work.
Trump could reverse the order, and had promised to do so during the campaign. He had also promised to cut off federal funding for sanctuary cities.
His rhetoric has raised alarms in immigrant communities.
"Since the elections, my phone has been off the hook," said Tayna Cabrera, who heads the Illinois Dream Fund Commission, which offers scholarships to undocumented college students.
"My students are terrified. Some of them haven't shown up to school," she said.
Jharkhand Governor Droupadi Murmu today wished the children of the state on the occasion of Children's Day.
Remembering Jawaharlal Nehru on his birth anniversary, Murmu expressed happiness at the programme initiated by Jharkhand Sasastra police, which selected school children from around rural areas of Ranchi, an official release said here.
A total 723 children from 15 schools were trained by the Jharkhand Sasastra police.
The Governor said she felt glad following a competition that saw the first three positions going to girls' schools.
The victorious girls not only lauded their schools and families but also reflected women empowerment before the society, she said.
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Bangladesh Navy today acquired its first submarines from China, as Dhaka sought to boost its naval power in the resource-rich Bay of Bengal.
Bangladesh Navy chief Admiral Nizamuddin Ahmed received the two submarines during a ceremony at Liao Nan Shipyard in northeast China's Liaoning province's Dalian city, the Inter Services Public Relation Directorate spokeswoman Syed Taposhi Rabeya said.
The type 035G class submarines will become part of the country's naval fleet at the beginning of next year, she said.
The submarines will be named 'BNS Nabajatra' and 'BNS Joyjatra' respectively, Dhaka Tribune reported.
Bangladesh is said to have paid nearly USD 203 million for the two submarines, the report said.
Type 035G-class submarines area, also known as Ming- class, is a class of diesel-electric submarines of China's People's Liberation Army Navy.
The primary weaponry for Type 035G is Yu-3 torpedo, and French sonar DUUX-5 and its Chinese-built version were used on later units, 12 of which were completed between 1990 and 1999.
Bangladesh has been expanding its defence capabilities in recent years, building a new airbase close to neighbouring Myanmar, opening several new military cantonments across the country and adding new frigates to its naval fleet.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced the plan to purchase two submarines in 2013 as part of her government's move to build a modern navy to defend the resource-rich Bay of Bengal.
An international tribunal has settled Bangladesh's long- standing maritime border disputes with neighbours Myanmar and India, paving the way for Dhaka to invite bids from multinational firms to explore for oil in the Bay.
Bangladeshi officials say that has ensured the country's sovereignty over 111,631sq-km of sea, an area nearly equal to its landmass.
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A class five student of a government school here suffered a fracture on his left arm after he was allegedly dragged by his teacher and was forcibly made to sit in the classroom, police said today.
The woman teacher had been suspended following a complaint by the parents of the boy over the incident at the Government Boys Higher Secondary school at Valathungal in Kollam on November 10.
A report has been sent to the Deputy Director (Education), by the Headmistress following which the teacher, who took Basic Sciences, has been suspended, school authorities told PTI.
The Headmistress said the boy along with some other students came to her after the science class stating that he experienced pain in his arm.
When enquired, other students in the class said the concerned teacher had allegedly dragged him and forcibly made him sit, she said.
The child was taken to the hospital where it was revealed that the left arm had fractured.
However, the concerned teacher denied having hurt the child. She told the headmistress that she had only led the boy to his seat in the class, since he was not in his seat.
The parents demanded that the teacher should apologise for the incident.
Meanwhile, police said they had gone to the school today to enquire about the incident.
No police complaint had been received so far from the boy's parents, they added.
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Class XII board examinations began peacefully in Kashmir today with nearly 95 per cent of the 32,000 students writing their papers, marking the resumption of educational activity in the Valley after schools remained shut for over four months due to the unrest.
Barring a few minor law and order incidents in some places, the test on the first day was conducted smoothly at more than 450 centres across Kashmir, including 73 in the summer capital here, officials said.
About 94.88 per cent of the total 31,964 students appeared in the examination, an official of Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (BOSE), which conducts the examinations, told PTI.
The official said the overall attendance of the students was up by 2.56 per cent from last year.
Over 480 centres have been set up for about 48,000 candidates for Class XII board examinations across Kashmir division, the official said, adding that the students who opted for the sixth paper appeared for the test today.
The government had decided to hold the exams as scheduled despite demands by parents that they be put off as the unrest had disrupted educational activities in the Valley.
Massive security arrangements were put in place across the Valley for the smooth conduct of the examination.
However, minor stone-pelting incidents were reported at a few places in Pulwama, Shopian, Budgam, and Baramulla, which did not affect the conduct of the examinations.
The miscreants were chased away by the security forces without affecting the test, a police official said.
The BOSE official said the highest appearance percentage of the students was recorded in central Kashmir's Budgam district where about 96.10 per cent of the students wrote their papers.
Budgam was followed by Anantnag in south Kashmir where 96.01 per cent students appeared in the examination, he said.
The official said North Kashmir's Bandipora witnessed the lowest attendance at 92.80 per cent.
Two other south Kashmir districts Pulwama and Shopian recorded 94.65 and 93.66 per cent, respectively.
South Kashmir has been the worst hit in the ongoing unrest in the valley following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani in an encounter in July.
North Kashmir's Bandipora, Baramulla and Kupwara districts recorded attendance at 92.80, 93.70 and 93.10 per cent, respectively, the official said, adding Srinagar and Ganderbal in central Kashmir recorded 95.83 and 92.93 per cent attendance.
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The dramatic decline of Iran's Lake Urmia - once the second-largest hyper-saline lake in the world - has both direct human and climatic causes, according to new research.
"Saving Lake Urmia will require both national action to improve water management, and international cooperation to address the issue of climate change," said Somayeh Shadkam, researcher at International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) in the US and Wageningen University in the Netherlands.
The study was the first to compare the relative impact of climate and water management on the water flowing into the lake.
Lake Urmia was once the world's second-largest hyper-saline lake, but has declined over 80 per cent in recent decades.
Previous work by Shadkam and colleagues had shown that climate change threatens the lake's existence, using future scenarios of climate change to project water inflow into the lake.
The new study aims to better understand the causes of the lake's decline, teasing out the relative contribution of different factors such as human water usage as well as climate-related variables, using 50 years of data from 1960 to 2010.
The annual flow of water into Lake Urmia dropped by 48 per cent over the study period.
Using a model of water flow into the lake, researchers found that 60 per cent of this decline was caused by climate changes, such as change in precipitation and temperature, and that the remaining 40 per cent of the decline could be attributed to water resources development, such as diverting water for irrigation that would otherwise flow into the lake.
Most previous studies have indicated the dominate role of water usage in changes in the lake surface area.
The study indicates that climate change and variability has contributed to the lake desiccation. That means that reduced water use without taking change in the climate into account might be insufficient in saving the lake.
"Water resources and climate change are inextricably interlinked. This is just one area where an integrated systems viewpoint is vital for providing sound advice to policymakers trying to solve such pressing issues," said Pavel Kabat, Director General at IIASA.
The study was published in the Journal of Great Lakes Research.
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The global drive to stave off disastrous global warming will continue regardless of who heads the US administration, Washington's top climate envoy said today on the election of climate change denier Donald Trump.
"Heads of state can and will change, but I am confident that we can and we will sustain a durable international effort to counter climate change," US special envoy for climate change Jonathan Pershing told journalists on the sidelines of a UN climate conference in Marrakesh.
Before he was elected president last week, Trump called climate change a "hoax" and threatened to "cancel" the hard-fought Paris Agreement concluded in the French capital last December to limit global warming.
Pershing said the "shape and thrust" of the new administration should become clearer in the coming weeks, adding that, "I cannot speak for the President-elect's team or to their outlook on international climate policy."
"What I do know, however, is that... Parties are deeply invested in seeing this work bear real fruit," he said.
"It was a global effort that made the agreement possible and the passion and the dedication that drove it," was in evidence still, Pershing added.
Yesterday, US Secretary of State John Kerry made an impassioned plea for America to maintain action on global warming.
"We will wait to see how the next administration addresses this but I believe we're on the right track and this is a track that the American people are committed to," Kerry said on a trip to New Zealand.
Trump's election has cast a long shadow over the Moroccan climate huddle, where envoys must come up with rules for implementing the goals and plans outlined in the Paris Agreement.
The pact seeks to limit average global warming to two degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) over pre-Industrial Revolution levels by cutting down on the use of planet-warming greenhouse gases from burning coal, oil and gas.
The Obama administration had been an ardent champion of the agreement, alongside China.
China's envoy, Xie Zhenhua, stressed today that tackling climate was a "common and shared responsibility".
"International cooperation is a must for us to address climate change," he said in Marrakesh.
Observers say Trump would have three options for pulling out of the process.
He could withdraw from the agreement itself, which would take four years, he could cancel the US' membership of the UN's climate convention and all its treaties, which would take 12 months, or simply ignore the US' emissions targets under the deal, which lists no penalties.
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With Compat asking CCI to probe allegations of alleged unfair business ways made against Digital Cinemas and six others, KSS Digital Cinema today said it expects the Competition Commission to "take necessary steps" in this regard.
The company had filed the complaint -- pertaining to alleged anti-competitive practices in the digital cinema exhibition market -- which was rejected twice by Competition Commission of India (CCI).
Last week, Competition Appellate Tribunal (Compat) had set aside the CCI's decision to reject a complaint of alleged unfair business ways made against US-based Digital Cinemas Initiatives LLC, a joint venture, and its six stakeholder partners. They are The Walt Disney Company India, Fox Star
Studios, NBC Universal Media Distribution Services, Sony Pictures, Warner Bros and Paramount Films India.
"We welcome this positive move. With the review, we hope that CCI will take the necessary steps as per the directives of tribunal to help players like us to operate seamlessly and provide a platform to all competing players to mutually operate in the market," KSS Digital Cinema Ltd's CEO Rahul Kanani said in a statement.
If implemented, it would further help to increase the distribution of Hollywood movies in Indian market, he added.
KSS Digital Cinema is part of KSS Ltd, formerly known as K Sera Sera Ltd.
The watchdog dismissed the allegations twice, in April 2015 and June this year.
In a strongly-worded order dated November 9, Compat said CCI "committed serious error by declining to order an investigation".
"Rationally speaking, it would have saved time and efforts of all those involved in this matter if the Commission had ordered an investigation by the director general instead of once again more or less reiterating its earlier views," the Tribunal said in the order.
Compat said the "impugned order is set aside and the Director General is ordained to conduct investigation into the allegations contained in the information filed by the appellant (K Sera Sera)".
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Alleging that the Centre demonetised currency notes without proper planning, Congress today held protests in Telangana against the move.
The opposition party also protested against the alleged attempts by the NDA government to downgrade the contribution of the first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
Congress leaders, led by state party unit president N Uttam Kumar Reddy, protested at the busy commercial locality of Abids. The party activists also burnt an effigy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion.
The Congress leaders and workers organised similar protests in several districts of Telangana today, the party said in a release.
Congress party is against black money, but "the manner in which Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes have been demonetised without proper planning resulted in misery to middle classes and chaos in the country," the PCC President alleged.
Leader of Opposition in Telangana Legislative Assembly K Jana Reddy, opposition leader in Legislative Council Mohd Ali Shabbir, former Rajya Sabha member V Hanumantha Rao and other Congress leaders sat on protest near the Nehru's statue at Abids, alleging that the BJP-led NDA government sought to downgrade the contribution of the first premier.
An advertisement published in newspapers on the occasion of Children's Day did not have the photograph of Nehru, Hanumantha Rao claimed.
He also said that it was Nehru who initiated major irrigation projects like Bhakra Nangal dam and laid the foundation for the modern India.
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Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal today accused Congress of running away from taking steps to safeguard the river waters of Punjab but said but the SAD will not "flinch from its duty" and will come out with "appropriate measures" to resolve the issue in its entirety.
In a statement here, Badal, who is also Deputy Chief Minister of the state said the party core committee as well as the state cabinet, both of which were meeting shortly, would deliberate upon the steps needed to firm up the party as well as the SAD-BJP government's decision not to allow even a drop of water to go to Haryana.
"We are ready to take any step necessary to stand up to this commitment", he added.
The SAD president said it was unfortunate that a "frustrated" Punjab Congress president - Amarinder Singh, was "stooping so low" as to ask for the resignation of the SAD- BJP government.
"You resigned from the Parliament because you had to contest the next assembly elections from Patiala. Your MLAs resigned as the party high command did not want them to be part of the proceedings of the November 16 sitting of the Punjab assembly. All this is understandable. But why are you asking for the resignation of Chief minister Parkash Singh Badal?
Surely it is because you are frustrated at the turn of events and the fact that Punjabis are increasingly seeing you as the villain of the piece who was facilitated the start of work on the SYL canal," he alleged.
Asking Amarinder not to act like a "sore loser", the SAD president said he could understand his "frustration".
"Your hands are tied by the Congress high command which has never supported Punjab's right over its own waters", he said.
He said even now Amarinder could redeem himself by supporting the steps being taken by Badal Sahab to save the waters of Punjab.
"But this is unlikely. You are resorting to cheap publicity stunts to befool Punjabis instead of directing your MLAs to debate the issue in the assembly. This will only alienate you and your party further from the people", he alleged.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Chinese President Xi Jinping today had a telephone conversation with US President-elect Donald Trump during which he said cooperation was the "only right choice" to bolster ties between the two major powers.
In his first call since Trump won the US presidential election last week, Xi congratulated Trump on his election victory, state-run CCTV reported.
Xi said tangible benefits have been brought to the people of the two nations in over 37 years of diplomatic relations.
He said "cooperation has proven to be the only right choice" and reaffirmed that China attaches great importance to relations with the US, and is willing to cooperate with the US, the channel reported.
Trump said he agreed about US-China relations and hopes for mutual benefits and win-win results. Trump also expressed willingness to strengthen ties.
"The two agreed to maintain close contact and build a good working relationship," it added.
Earlier, Xi had congratulated Trump on November 9 soon after his victory and called for cooperation between the two economies to maintain global peace and stability as well as improving bilateral ties shunning confrontation.
In his earlier message to Trump, Xi hoped they could work together to boost China-US relations so as to better benefit peoples around the world.
While China is the world's largest developing country and the US, the largest developed power, both, as the world's top economies, bear the special responsibility of maintaining world peace and stability and boosting global development and prosperity, and share extensive interests, Xi had said.
Also Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi today said China stands ready to further promote its relations with the United States on the "new starting point" following Trump's election.
Beijing was ready to push forward China-US ties on new starting point, Xinhua quoted Wang, who is currently touring Turkey, as saying.
Asked whether China has made contact with Trump's team, Wang told the media in Ankarathat China maintains close contact with the US side at various levels.
China, he said, is willing to continue its cooperation with the administration of outgoing US President Barack Obama, so as to ensure a smooth transition of bilateral ties to the next US administration, Xinhua reported.
Meanwhile, Beijing also stands ready to communicate with Trump's team, so as to cement mutual understanding and expand consensus on bilateral cooperation, Wang said.
He said Xi's message to Trump has charted the course for the future development of China-US ties, and China is ready to make joint efforts with the US side to that end, said the minister.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
State-owned Corporation Bank has signed an MoU with Indian Army on the Defence Salary Package which will come with a host of facilities, including free insurance cover.
The MoU is tailor made to suit the requirements of serving soldiers, pensioners and families, Corporation Bank said in a statement.
It will benefit a large number of Army personnel who are having their accounts with Corporation Bank and also provide them an opportunity to access modern banking facilities, it said.
The bank under the agreement is providing free or concessional services including free drafts, free cheque books, free fund transfers to any bank in India through RTGS or NEFT, free ATM cards, unlimited transactions on all ATMs including that of other Banks.
Free personal accident insurance cover and term insurance of up to 10 lakh up to the age of 70 years and air insurance cover of Rs 50 lakh are features offered under the MoU.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Management of a plastic manufacturing company here was today booked by police on the charge of cheating after its employee complained that he was paid his monthly salary in the recently-demonetised notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000.
Based on the complaint given by the employee, Kansraj Pradhan, an FIR under IPC section 420 (cheating) was registered against the company at Bhimpore police station, a statement issued by Daman police said.
Pradhan, who draws a monthly salary of Rs 12,000, alleged that the company gave two notes of Rs 1,000 and 20 notes of Rs 500, which have been demonetised by the government.
"Despite knowing the fact that the government has banned these notes, the management paid the salary using them, which is a crime under section 420 of IPC," the statement added.
Police have warned that if any other company is found to be indulging in such crime, similar action will be taken against it.
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Quinton de Kock plundered a century Monday as South Africa frustrated Australia to tighten their grip on the second Test as the sun emerged on the third day in Hobart.
After Sunday's second day was washed out, the Australians were hunting for early wickets to put a brake on the Proteas after they were routed for a record low total of 85 on Saturday.
But de Kock and Temba Bavuma batted South Africa into a position of strength with a century stand for the sixth wicket and a 203-run lead to put even more pressure on Steve Smith's embattled team.
Wicketkeeper de Kock was bowled by Josh Hazlewood just before lunch for 104 -- his second Test hundred -- off 143 balls with 17 boundaries.
His stand of 144 with Temba Bavuma was the highest by a visiting team in Hobart for the sixth wicket.
At lunch, the Proteas were 288 for six with Bavuma unbeaten on 74 and Vernon Philander on three.
De Kock became only the fourth South African to register 50 or more in five consecutive Tests after he swept spinner Nathan Lyon for four over wide mid-on.
He has proved a thorn for Australia in this series following scores of 84 and 64 in the first Test victory in Perth.
Bavuma, who raised his fifth Test half-century with an edge off Hazlewood through the gully, had his second Test century in sight.
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Body of a 25-year-old woman, in highly decomposed state, with her feet tied, was found in Pandav Nagar area of east Delhi.
The body was found around 10 AM in the bushes near NH-24 and it seems it was dumped there around 20 days ago, said a senior police officer, adding the body was highly decomposed.
The woman hasn't been identified as yet, said the officer.
Police said the autopsy will determine whether she was sexually assaulted before being killed or her body was mauled by an animal, he said.
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Delhi Congress workers and leaders today paid rich tributes to former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and remembered his contribution in nation building on the occasion of his 127th birth anniversary.
Terming Nehru as a "visionary par excellence", Delhi Congress President Ajay Maken said that "far sighted" steps taken by him for all-round development of the country were now bearing fruits as India was on the "fast track" of development and progress.
Maken led the party leaders and workers in paying floral tributes at a portrait of Nehru during a function held at Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee (DPCC) office.
The All India Congress Committee (AICC) Delhi incharge P C Chacko also paid tributes to Nehru during the function.
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An emergency session of the Delhi Assembly has been convened tomorrow to discuss the "explosive" situation arising out of demonetisation, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said today even as he attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his 'kadak chai' remark saying the poor was being "fed poison" instead.
Kejriwal said, considering the hardship being faced by people, the Delhi government has decided to deploy civil defence volunteers who will provide citizens queueing up outside banks and ATMs with water and refreshments, while also assisting them with paper work.
Sticking to his demand that demonetisation be rolled back, the AAP chief lashed out at Modi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, saying the Centre has lost "all sense of proportion due to lack of any concrete plan in executing the scheme."
"The situation is just the opposite of what the Prime Minister said. The poor are not sleeping. They are spending nights outside banks. Only Modiji's friends are having good sleep. He has made the poor drink poison in the name of strong tea 'kadak chai'," Kejriwal said.
Earlier in the day, while addressing a rally in Ghazipur in Uttar Pradesh, Modi said "My decision is a little harsh. When I was young, poor people used to ask for 'kadak' (strong) tea but it spoils the mood of rich."
The Delhi Chief Minister said he was pained to see people struggle for cash to buy basic necessities like food items and medicines, adding government was exploring options to arrange cooked food for those in need.
"We have also asked the Divisional Commissioner to explore in the next two to three days the possibility of arranging food through 'langar's for those who are having to starve due to lack of hard cash," Kejriwal said.
The Delhi Health secretary has also been directed to ensure that there is no shortage in city government-run hospitals, Kejriwal said. The Cabinet meet was attended by Ministers and top officials including the Chief Secretary.
He is likely to meet his Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee, who has also been vociferously opposing the measure, when she arrives in New Delhi tomorrow, Kejriwal said.
"It is simply a mechanism to transfer 50 per cent of the country's total black money to BJP's accounts. The intention is UP polls. They would have arrested swiss bank account holders and manufacturers of counterfeit currency had they wanted to act against black economy," he said.
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Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia today inaugurated 'Delhi Pavilion' at the India International Trade Fair here having theme of 'Digital Delhi', showcasing government's various digital initiatives.
The initiatives included online VAT registration, Swachh Delhi App, online sanction for building plans, and introduction of medicine vending machines.
The AAP government's ambitious project - 'Mohalla Clinics' was also at the centre of attraction at the pavilion which also showcased reduction in power bills, free water upto 700 litres, smart school classes and Car-Free Day.
Sisodia, who was accompanied by Health Minister Satyendar Jain and Environment Minister Imran Hussain, visited stalls of different departments installed at the pavilion.
Government said that it is planning to switch over to e-governance completely which primarily means governance by application of information and communication technology.
Among the digital works started by government are online registration of VAT and shops, mobile app for grant of Permanent VAT Registration without inspection in real time, online sanction of Building Plans for Residential, Commercial, Industrial and Warehouse buildings with Common Application Form (CAF) under Single Window Clearance System.
Besides, self certification by DISCOM instead of NOC from Labour Department of Delhi government of upto 11KVA was implemented. Application for water/sewer connection can be filed online.
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Days after welcoming the Centre's move to demonetise high-value currency notes, DMK chief M Karunanidhi today said it has been done without detailed assessment of its impact and the fears that it can backfire cannot be brushed aside.
He also asked the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre to issue an "appropriate" reply to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's allegation of 'scam' behind the demonetisation effort.
"While Prime Minister Modi's announcement (on demonetisation) can be welcomed to the extent that it was done with noble intention, the fears that it might backfire without yielding desired results cannot be brushed aside," he said.
In a letter to his partymen, Karunanidhi said, "We have seen what miseries are being faced by commoners and poor over the sudden demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes, a move made without detailed assessment of its impact."
The DMK chief said on November 9 he had welcomed the demonetisation move but voiced concern about hardships of ordinary people, small traders, autorickshaw drivers as there are no takers for the invalidated Rs 500 notes.
Citing latest reports, he claimed people are affected as movement of notes have been restricted after old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 went defunct and were replaced by Rs 2000 notes.
"People are not getting or able to give change for Rs 2000 note. This only compounded their problems as banks and ATMs are buzzing with crowds," he claimed.
"If the Centre is keen on eradicating black money, it should have consulted economic experts," he said, adding, "How is it fair to punish the poor when a huge amount of black money is stashed abroad."
The priority should be on unearthing black money stashed abroad, Karunanidhi said and claimed that bad debts of big corporates stood at around Rs 11 lakh crore.
On Kejriwal's allegation that BJP had informed its 'friends' beforehand about the demonetisation move, he said, the "Centre has a responsibility to appropriately respond" to the charge.
On Modi's remarks yesterday that crores of people except the corrupt had "slept peacefully" after the announcement of demonetisation of high-value notes, the DMK chief claimed "crores of people have lost their sleep and are anxiously waiting in long queues" to exchange the scrapped banknotes.
Karunanidhi also lashed out at his arch rival Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa for not dwelling on this issue in her statement yesterday.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Since the demonetisation of high currency notes terror funding has come down to zero and there hasn't been stone-pelting on security forces, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said on Monday.
He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the "daring" move, which, he said, will also help clamp down on the narcotic drugs.
"Earlier, there were rates: Rs 500 for stone pelting (on security forces in Kashmir) and Rs 1,000 for doing something else. PM has brought terror funding to zero," Parrikar said.
"In the last few days after PM's daring move there hasn't been stone pelting on security forces. I congratulate PM for it," he said, speaking at an event here organised by the BJP MLA Atul Bhatkhalkar.
Talking to reporters later, Parrikar said those who sponsor terror will be affected by the demonetisation.
Earlier, at the event, Parrikar said, "Bhatkhalkar did not tell me beforehand that he will felicitate me."
A citation was presented to Parrikar, which lauded his role in surgical strikes in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir. It also thanked him for providing relief to people affected by land development rules in the vicinity of Central Ordnance Depots.
"When I became Defence Minister, I did not think there will be things like this (dealing with COD-land issue). I thought Defence meant bang-bang on the border," he said.
"Altogether, 17.38 lakh acres of land in the country is under Defence possession. Defence is the largest land owner in India," Parrikar said.
"There was delay in resolving COD issue as there were concerns over security on one hand and people's concerns on the other," he said.
"Whether it's border security or economic security, PM Modi has taken daring decisions," he said, adding "whatever is being done, our jawans on border are doing it, I and PM are just supporting it."
"Problem of new notes circulation will be resolved to a large extent in the next four-five days," Parrikar said.
In the next Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections, nobody will be left with power to bribe voters, Parrikar said, without naming the ally Shiv Sena which has been critical of demonetisation.
The Defence Minister said an issue should not be made out of his simplicity and his shunning various official perks.
"I came to Mumbai thrice (on personal visits) and police didn't know," Parrikar said.
BJP MP Gopal Shetty said he will expose Defence officers who indulged in irregularities while dealing with the COD issue.
Providing relief to people in suburban Kandivli and Malad here, Parrikar had earlier this year said the local military authority (LMA) will have to respond within 30 days to applications for no-objection certificate for redevelopment and construction near the defence establishment, failing which the state government and the municipal corporation can take a call.
The move was welcomed by residents of buildings within the 500-meter radius of the Central Ordnance Depot, a defence establishment spanning across 17 acres of Kandivli and Malad.
Two notifications -- issued by a cautious government in 2010 in the wake of the Adarsh scam and by the ministry of defence (MoD) in 2011 -- had scuttled all redevelopment projects in the highly congested areas of Kandivli and Malad, as they made permission from the LMA mandatory for any construction within 500-meter radius of COD.
The demonetisation move of the Narendra Modi government has dented the Indian currency's "prestige" and has subjected the Indian people to "ridicule from the international community", senior Congress leader Mohan Prakash claimed here today.
"The decision of the Modi government to ban the Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes has lowered the prestige earned by the Indian currency in the last 50-60 years. People in foreign countries are mocking us by stating that the people in India are standing in long queues for hours for a few dollars," the Congress general secretary told reporters at the airport here.
Prakash said scrapping of the high-value currency notes had led to a "chaos" across the country.
"This has created an unusual situation in the country. Business activities are stopped and the poor, housewives and farmers are facing trouble...The government is feeling very happy about it," the Congress leader said.
Prakash said his party would "aggressively" raise the demonetisation issue in the forthcoming Winter Session of Parliament.
Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the nation by surprise when he announced the withdrawal of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes from circulation as a measure aimed at curbing black money and counterfeiting.
However, the sudden move triggered panic among the people who are queueing up outside banks and ATMs across the country to either deposit or withdraw money or to exchange the scrapped currency notes for lower-value tender.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Queues outside ATMs increased today as banks remained shut on account of Guru Nanak Jayanti even as several cash vending machines across the city ran dry of currency, compounding woes of the common man.
Getting cash-strapped with each passing day, people did not seem impressed with the government's last night decision to increase the weekly and daily withdrawal limit from banks and ATMs.
"This is becoming unbearable now. How long can we afford to be in the queue to get money which we toiled to earn. My family is on the verge of starvation," said Damodar Kamble, who tried his luck to exchange money this morning at an ATM in suburban Vikhroli.
Many customers made it to ATMs as early as 5 AM in anticipation of procuring a few precious Rs 100 notes. There were also reports that many ATMs in south Mumbai localities like Lalbaugh, Parel, Dadar ran out of cash.
Similar instances were reported from suburbs like Andheri, Ghatkopar and Mulund, forcing people to return home empty-handed.
The nation was taken for a surprise last week after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that higher denomination notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 will be discontinued, forcing people to rush to banks and ATMs for Rs 100 notes.
A housewife in Kurla, Shweta, said, "This has become a horror. It's sad...People are dying, fighting while waiting in queues."
"Now, full form of ATM should be temporarily changed to 'Aayega to milega'," she said in a lighter vein.
Meanwhile, private hospitals in the city, in wake of the fresh notification issued yesterday on the use of old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 bills till November 24, were today in a dilemma whether they should accept the scrapped currencies as there was no clarity on the issue.
Management of private hospitals, raising concern, termed the notification as "confusing."
Rajiv Singal, member of a trust that runs few hospitals in suburban Dahisar, said, "Private hospitals and patients are the most hit people due to demonetisation as government has failed to come up with clear-cut guidelines. Even the notification, released yesterday, is not clear on whether private hospitals should accept old notes or not."
"The notification is silent on use of demonetised notes for private hospitals as it read, hospitals, pharmacy, chemist shops would be able to accept the notes till November 24," he said.
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Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Preeti Sharma Menon, in a blog, alleged that the demonetisation exercise is a "scam" by those who had insider information about the currency ban.
"People are making profit by accepting OHD (Old High Denomination) at discount or selling their assets at very high price in lieu of OHDs.
"We are hearing of gold selling at Rs 50,000 per 10 gram in exchange of OHD and old Rs 500 and 1000 notes selling at a 20-30 per cent discount (Old Rs 500 notes being exchanged with new currency of Rs 350 to 400)," the leader claimed.
"At a time when people want to get rid of old notes, a fundamental question comes to mind - who are these people accepting the old notes and what will they do with them," Menon said.
Asserting that the poor in the country are supporting his demonetisation decision, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today took on the opposition parties, especially Congress, saying it is the corrupt who are sleepless now.
"After demonetisation, the poor are enjoying a sound sleep while rich are running from pillar to post to buy sleeping pills," Modi said at BJP's Parivartan Yatra here, as he continued to rally public support for his move.
Scoffing at opposition for blaming him for the problems being faced by the poor, the Prime Minister said he was better aware of the hardships being faced by commoners.
"You (Congress) issue statements. I feel the pulse of the poor," he said.
Lashing out at opposition, he said, "Some political parties are worried after demonitisation...They used to get huge garlands of notes...Only option now is to put the Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes in waste paper basket."
"Some people wear a smile on the face, they even say Modi ji you have done a good job. But they instigate their party workers to oppose my decision," he said, without taking any names.
His apparent reference was to leaders of BSP, SP and AAP who have been critical of the move.
Modi said the action will affect very powerful people people but he is prepared to fight for the poor.
"I know I will face a lot of hardships as those having lots of cash are very powerful people but I have undertaken this fight for the poor," the PM said.
Referring to people dumping wads of old Rs 500 and Rs
1000 notes in rivers, the Prime Minister said, "You cannot wash your sins off just by putting currency notes in the river Ganges."
"My decision is a little harsh... When I was young poor people used to ask for 'kadak' (strong) tea as they like strong tea but it spoils the mood of the rich," he said amid applause from the gathering.
Modi said he was aware of the hardships being faced by people in the wake of his demonetisaion decision. However, he said had it not been for people's support, the corrupt and blackmarketeers would not have been so worried today.
Making his opening remarks in Bhojpuri to strike a rapport with the people of eastern UP, Modi said there was no change in the plight of people of Purvanchal since 1962 and he chose November 14 (Jawaharlal Nehru's birth anniversary) purposely to complete the works for development of the region.
He said there was no dearth of money for development, but the fact was that money was stashed away somewhere else and not where it should have been.
He said some political parties are facing a major problem due to demonetisation.
"There is no option left for the dishonest in the country now. I am only fulfilling the promise made at election time to fight corruption," he said.
Tamil Nadu Government today requested the Centre to ask the Sri Lankan government to release over 100 fishing boats, which are still in custody of the island nation.
Recalling the detention of 158 fishing boats by Sri Lanka in 2014, Chief Secretary P Rama Mohana Rao in a letter to Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar, said that Chief Minister Jayalalithaa had repeatedly urged the Prime Minister to take necessary steps for the release of the boats.
The Tamil Nadu Government had 'unanimously' passed a resolution in December 2014, seeking early release of the boats, Rao said, adding that Sri Lankan courts had finally ordered their release in February 2015.
Stating that two salvage teams were formed towards the release of the boats, he said, "the salvage operation was carried out in two phases by 355 fishermen with 54 salvage boats".
Sixty four boats were salvaged with minor and major repairs and brought to India in March and April 2015.
"But due to prolonged berthing, 16 were damaged beyond retrieval," he said.
Despite repeated appeals by Chief Minister Jayalalithaa, the Centre is yet to agree to bear the losses suffered by the Indian fishermen, he said.
As the fishermen association requested release of 105 boats still in Sri Lankan custody, he urged the Centre to suitably compensate them for their losses.
"The cost of each fishing boat is around Rs 25 lakh. I request you to impress upon the Government of Sri Lanka to secure the early release of 105 fishing boats, which are sustaining serious damages in Sri Lankan custody and return the boats in refurbished condition", he said.
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Actor Eddie Redmayne said he had to explain to custom officers why he was carrying a wand in his luggage.
The "Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them'" star was forced to explain to border officers why he was carrying a "really sharp, scary object" in his luggage, which turned out to be the prop from the fantasy film, reported Contactmusic.
"I brought it because I felt like it would be reassuring to have Newt's wand. But then we were coming through customs and I suddenly realise that a wand looks like a really sharp, scary object and then to try and explain it to a customs person, I was like, 'Have you seen the ... No?' That was a bit disastrous'," he said.
And the 34-year-old actor now feels he cannot use a briefcase in real life as he doesn't want people to think he is copying his character, magizoologist Newt Scamander.
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EU ministers approved a common defence plan today despite sharp differences over how far it should go, as Donald Trump's election win stoked fears about Washington's commitment to European security.
Trump's campaign threat to think twice about defending NATO allies unless they up their defence spending has driven calls for the European Union to press ahead on its own, despite objections from Britain.
EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini insisted the plans -- to boost the bloc's ability to respond to external conflicts, help partner countries build their defence capabilities and protect EU citizens -- would not undermine NATO.
"It's not about a European army, it's not about creating a new European Union SHAPE-style headquarters," Mogherini said after talks with foreign and defence ministers in Brussels, referring to NATO's own military HQ.
Britain has long opposed any such moves as undermining NATO, but after its shock June Brexit vote, France and Germany jumped in with plans to boost defence cooperation that have now gained extra urgency with Trump's election victory.
Mogerhini said the bloc was working on the issue long before the US vote and that it would "continue to do this in strong partnership with NATO".
The meeting's final statement made no mention of a possible EU military headquarters in Brussels, but said they had asked the bloc's foreign policy service to develop a "permanent" system for coordinating civilian-military measures.
The issue exposed a rift between the bloc's two biggest military powers, France and Britain, which is set to leave the EU in two years after the Brexit vote in June.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said the defence plan was an "essential step forward" for Europe to show it can take defence decisions on its own in an "increasingly uncertain world".
But British Defence Secretary Michael Fallon meanwhile bluntly told the EU to stop "dreaming".
"Instead of planning expensive new headquarters or dreaming of a European army, what Europe needs to do now is to spend more on its own defence, that is the best possible approach to the Trump Presidency," Fallon said.
British foreign secretary Boris Johnson, a leading Brexit supporter, said earlier that Trump's election offered a "moment of opportunity" and the EU should wait to see what he wanted.
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The European Union (EU) is planning to introduce a new pass for British travellers as part of a wider security crackdown to identify potential troublemakers, it emerged today.
The European Commission is discussing bringing in a version of the visa waiver programme which British travellers to the US already have to apply for.
Sir Julian King, European commissioner for the security union, said that plans to introduce an electronic system for travel authorisation or Esta would help identify potential troublemakers before they arrived at border control gates.
"We think this is going to be a valuable additional piece of the jigsaw because it will allow us to know more about the people who are planning to come to the EU in advance so that if necessary they raise questions about either security or in some cases migration. We'll be able to intervene even before they arrive," King said.
The US scheme requires international travellers who are exempt from visa requirements to apply for an Esta and pay around 10 pounds before entering the territory.
It lasts for two years.
According to 'The Times', if a similar scheme were to operate in the EU, British travellers could be forced to apply online before taking trips to mainland Europe.
Currently British passport holders can travel throughout EU member states without having to apply for any kind of short-term visas.
However, even though the UK is still in the union until Brexit officially takes place, the new visa waiver would apply as it will be to monitor people entering the so-called Schengen zone of free movement, which excludes Britain.
King added: "The fact that we're having this conversation now is unfortunately timely, because Sunday is one year on from the horrible attacks in Paris which were part of a series of attacks that shocked France, shocked the whole of Europe.
"It's that level of present, persistent, indiscriminate threat that led to 80-plus per cent of European citizens saying they want more action in this area.
"There are a number of elements at the heart of this task; tackling terrorism is one, but not the only part of it. There's work that needs to be done on cybercrime and attacks, and serious and organised crime."
"On terrorism there were a number of things already in hand."
These include making it more difficult to get hold of deactivated firearms in the EU, as well as plans to criminalise travel to and from Syria and Iraq, and making changes to checks at passport control that are designed to increase the amount of information known about the traveller without slowing down the process at passport control.
He said that further meetings were planned with internet service providers (ISP) in an attempt to reduce the emergence of so-called "home-grown" terror cells.
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Rescuers in New Zealand were scrambling today to evacuate up to 1,000 tourists stranded by a 7.8 earthquake that has caused "utter devastation" on the coast of the South Island.
A navy ship was steaming towards the seaside town of Kaikoura, which bore the brunt of the quake that claimed two lives when it struck yesterday.
Huge landslides have cut road and rail links to the town, where police say water is running low, power is intermittent and hundreds of people are staying in evacuation shelters.
It has a population of 2,000, bolstered by an extra 600-1,000 tourists attracted by the area's popular whale-watching cruises.
Officials said they were ramping up efforts to rescue the visitors, who are mostly international backpackers.
Four military helicopters will begin ferrying them in small groups to Christchurch today and a C-103 Hercules is on standby to drop supplies to the stricken town.
State broadcaster Radio New Zealand reported up to 50 civilian helicopters would also be drafted into the rescue effort, evacuating tourists from local rugby grounds.
The HMNZS Canterbury set off from Auckland yesterday and is expected to arrive in Kaikoura early Wednesday.
Commanding officer Simon Rooke said it could take up to 500 tourists.
"We're going to pick them up by landing craft and sea boats and extract them to Lyttelton (in Christchurch) so they can get to a point of safety," he said.
Heavy rain and driving winds were hampering clean-up efforts, although life outside the main Kaikoura disaster zone was slowly returning to normal as roads opened and power was restored.
There have also been more than 800 aftershocks, some measuring more than 6.0, further complicating the work of emergency crews.
Prime Minister John Key said he was shocked at the scale of the damage after flying over the quake's epicentre on yesterday.
"It's just utter devastation... Months of (repair) work," Key remarked, adding that repairs would likely take "billions of dollars to resolve".
The tremor, one of the most powerful ever recorded in the quake-prone South Pacific nation, hit yesterday.
It triggered landslides that dumped mountains of rocky debris on the main highway and ripped railway tracks 10 metres (30 feet) off course.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Exhorting public and private steel companies facing cheap imports from global markets to evolve "joint strategies", Steel Minister Chaudhary Birendra Singh today said efforts need to be made for cost reduction and improving product quality.
"My desire is that public, private sector and Ministry will have to prepare themselves to jointly face the challenges coming from abroad," Singh said while inaugurating the steel pavilion at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) here.
He was referring to the spate of cheap imports in India from countries such as China, Korea, Japan and Russia, which have eroded the margins of the domestic steel producers and has impacted their sales and profits.
"The entire industry will have to come up with joint strategies to take on the challenges being faced by the industry," the minister said.
Government is focused on the manufacturing sector and is implementing Research and Development (R&D) projects in realms of iron and steel technology under various categories such as Plant Performance Improvement (PPI), Product Development (PD), Scientific Investigation and Development (SID), Basic Research (BR) and Technical Services (TS), Singh noted.
The major efforts are directed towards cost reduction and improvement in quality of Indian steel, in order to develop and deliver high quality steel products that add value to the customer's business, across the value chain, he said.
"India is the world's third largest steel maker and we are constantly working towards innovative and cost-effective R&D solutions, developing and commercialising improved processes and products, continually enhancing capability with the aim of becoming a global hub of centre of excellence," he added.
Steel Secretary Aruna Sharma said that in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a digital India, the Indian steel industry has taken a very proactive approach.
It is enabling a seamless integration of digital technologies across processes, such as operations research, product development, robotics & mechanical engineering, mining, pelletisation, raw material handling, coke oven, sinter plant, blast furnace, long product mill, among others.
Digital Revolution holds many promises, for the sector in India. It has already embedded transparency, efficiency, enhanced quality of Indian steel and most importantly improved safety standards, leading to a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy, she added.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The exhumation of Poland's former head of state was due to begin today, reviving a probe into a 2010 presidential plane crash that has stoked friction with Russia and caused divisions at home.
Prosecutors want to check the remains were correctly identified and test for traces of explosives or combustion, as the governing rightwing Law and Justice (PiS) party believes a fire may have erupted onboard before the crash.
The PiS suspects the crash involved foul play, but Polish and Russian investigators have never found any evidence to support the claim.
Local media say 83 of the victims' remains are to be exhumed in an investigation likely to last at least two months.
The process is expected to start late today with Kaczynski and his wife Maria.
PiS leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski's twin brother, then president Lech Kaczynski, was among 96 people -- most of them senior Polish state officials -- who died in the crash in Smolensk, western Russia, on April 10 2010.
The delegation was heading to a ceremony in Russia's Katyn forest for thousands of Polish army officers killed by Soviet secret police in 1940 -- a massacre the Kremlin denied until 1990.
Kaczynski and his wife Maria are buried in the crypt of the Wawel royal castle in Krakow where the kings of Poland and Jozef Pilsudski, the father of Polish independence in 1918, are also interred.
In March, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed Polish suspicions as "groundless, biased and having no connection with the real circumstances of this aircraft accident."
Moscow has been asked many times to hand over the wreckage and black boxes to the Polish authorities, but each time has said it will only do so when its own inquiry is finished.
Poland's previous liberal government -- headed at the time by Donald Tusk, Jaroslaw Kaczynski's arch-rival -- blamed bad weather and errors by the Polish pilots and Russian air traffic controllers.
But the PiS-led government, which came to power in November 2015 after eight years in the opposition, rejected those conclusions as a coverup and launched its own investigation.
Only 10 per cent of Poles approve of the decision to exhume the bodies, according to a survey conducted by the IPSOS pollsters published in October.
Last month, more than 200 relatives of 17 of the 96 victims wrote an open letter to President Andrzej Duda, saying they felt "abandoned and distraught in the face of a cruel and heartless act" of exhuming the remains.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The number of hate crimes reported to police increased by about 6.7% last year, led largely by a 67% surge in crimes against Muslims, according to statistics released on Monday.
Civil rights groups had been raising concerns about an anti-Muslim backlash in the US even before the terror attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, California, late in the year.
The reporting period covers calendar year 2015, but comes at a time of heightened tensions following last week's presidential election.
There have been reports of racist and anti-religious instances since Tuesday that have sparked outrage, including students at one school who chanted "white power" and a videotaped assault in Chicago that showed black men beating a white man as onlookers screamed, "You voted Trump!"
In 2008, after Barack Obama was elected as the nation's first black president, there were also suspected cases of alleged hate crimes tied to the election.
In 2015, there were 257 incidents of anti-Muslim bias compared to 184 incidents the prior year. The total is second only to the surge in hate crimes following the 9/11 terror attacks in 2001.
The increase could be due, in part, to increased reporting by victims as well as better reporting and tracking by law enforcement agencies, although the number of all law enforcement agencies sending their data to the decreased about 3% between 2014 and 2015.
Overall, the number of reported hate crimes increased from 5,479 in 2014 to 5,850 last year, and religious-based hate crimes increased by 23%. Jews and Jewish institutions remain the most frequent target of religious-based hate crimes, representing 53% of all those reported. Crimes against Jews increased about 9%.
A fire broke out today at an ATM of Central Bank of India due to a short circuit in north Delhi's Kashmere Gate area.
"A call was received at 6.24 pm today about a fire breaking out at the ATM of the Central Bank of India situated in Kashmere Gate. The ATM of the bank and the outer area of the bank, situated next to it, was partly damaged in the fire. The fire also spread to Union bank of India that is located on the first floor. Five fire tenders were rushed to the spot," said an officer from Delhi Fire Services.
Police said that the fire in the bank was caused due to short circuit. The ATM has been damaged but there was no currency in the ATM. No casualties or injuries were reported due to fire that was doused within five-seven minutes after the fire tenders arrived, said a senior police officer.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A French reporter was expelled from Turkey after being detained near the Syrian border in the country's southeast, his employers said.
Olivier Bertrand "has arrived in Paris (CDG airport) and is in good shape", said Isabelle Roberts, head of online media Les Jours.
Bertrand was detained on Friday in Gaziantep province, where he was working on a series of planned stories on post-coup Turkey.
Turkish agency Anadolu said earlier that Bertrand was being held in the northwest and would likely be expelled in the evening.
It said he had been detained for failing to seek proper accreditation.
But it also described him as writing articles "favourable" to those allegedly behind the failed coup against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in July.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault on Sunday said his detention was "deeply shocking, unacceptable".
Other French media and internet users also threw their weight behind calls for Bertrand's release.
"In a democratic country, Olivier Bertrand would have been able to continue reporting without being expelled by a government which has things to hide," said Christophe Deloire, general secretary of the watchdog group Reporters Without Borders (RSF).
His arrest came the same day that Turkey detained the board chairman of opposition daily Cumhuriyet, which has faced an intensifying crackdown since the failed coup.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
There is a lot to tell about India beyond reports on poverty, rape and communal violence, German Ambassador Martin Ney said here today as he felt German journalists posted in India could do better justice while covering it, which is a "meritable challenge".
In his opening remarks at the Indo-German Media Dialogue, organised by DW Akademie and the German Embassy, Ney pitched for strengthening media relations between the two countries.
"When my colleagues and I talk to people in Germany about India, many of those who have not spent time in India, but take the knowledge about the country from the media in Germany, ask us mostly about poverty, rape, communal violence.
"Of course, there are problems in India. And people should be informed about them too. But there's so much more to tell about India," Ney said.
Ney said there are "exciting" societal transformations taking place in India, which is witnessing economic reforms and offers business opportunities and advanced technology.
"Without doubt, portraying India's diversity and simultaneous presence of extreme contrast, is a meritable challenge. Nevertheless, I personally feel, that German media could do better justice to India," he added.
Ney described Indian media as "huge with mind boggling scale, vivid and sometimes noisy" and added the dialogue will help strengthen the media relations between the two democracies.
He observed that Indian media houses don't have their correspondents deputed in Germany and depend on Anglo-Saxon agency to know about happenings in the European nation. He also asked the media houses here to have their correspondents in Germany to ensure "first hand impression".
"...There is not a single Indian newspaper or TV station that has a correspondent in Germany. As a result, there is no authentically Indian voice from Germany, no Indian journalist to analyse on-the-ground whatever happens in Germany, in the service of Indian reader
"... In the lights of very close Indo-German partnership in many areas, I would wish Indian media to rely on the first hand impression from Germany," he said.
On the other hand, apart from freelance scribes, as many as six German media organisations have editorial departments in India, he said adding that few other German publications cover Indian affairs from Singapore and Thailand.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A confrontation over the demonetisation move is set to escalate with Congress today accusing the government of unleashing "economic anarchy" and "tax terrorism" in the country and virtually appealing to all opposition parties to put up a united fight on the issue.
"Whatever may be the differences, all political parties should not shy away from voicing the concerns of the people so as to address the grievances," party's chief spokesman Randeep Surjewala told reporters, charging "autocratic" Prime Minister Narendra Modi with unleashing "economic anarchy".
The remarks came close on the heels of a meeting Congress and seven other opposition parties had to formulate a joint strategy to corner the government on various issues including demonetisation that has caused inconvenience to the people ahead of Winter Session of Parliament beginning November 16.
"This isn't an issue of a single political party but where the entire country has been plunged into economic anarchy by the dictatorial and autocratic PM and his government and it is our duty to raise and champion the voice of the people in the most befitting fashion," Surjewala said.
He said that this should be done to draw the attention of the government which in its "arrogance of power and numbers" is not paying heed to reason and cry of the people.
Congress also sought to take the battle on the issue to the BJP camp by daring the Prime Minister to release the bank details of the party at the national and state levels for the people to know about transactions.
This, Surjewala said, was necessary as West Bengal BJP had deposited Rs one crore in the form of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes on November eight shortly before the demonetisation decision was announced.
Claiming that "some select people" had prior knowledge of
the demonetisation decision, Surjewala said that this is indicative from the fact that in September this year banks deposits went up by Rs 5,88,600 crore as compared to August.
He also found fault with the government raising by 130 per cent the limit of the amount that could be sent abroad by an Indian national in the last two years.
Accusing the Prime Minister of facilitating sending Indian money abroad, he wanted to know whom he was helping by the move which resulted in Rs 30,000 crore going to foreign countries as against Rs 10,400 crore earlier.
He charged the government with unleashing "tax terrorism" which, he said, has "seriously" affected markets across the country with small traders severely hit.
Targeting the Prime Minister for seeking 50 days to deal with the "crisis", he sought to know as to who created it and why there was no adequate preparation.
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Raising a number of questions on the demonetisation move, Surjewala said it has landed people in "humongous" problems and accused the Modi government of branding the entire country as "criminals".
Releasing a list of 23 people who have lost their lives over the past 72 hours, he asked whether the Prime Minister would go to each house and apologise to the families which have lost their family members on account of "economic anarchy".
"What is the reason that none of the industrialist friends, top bureaucrats, Cabinet Ministers, BJP Chief Ministers or BJP leaders is standing in any line in front of any bank or ATM, while the entire nation spends entire day attempting to exchange Rs 4,000?" he asked.
He alleged the actual black money lies with a "handful of industrialist friends" of the Prime Minister.
With no end in sight for the cash crunch faced by millions, the government has eased restrictions on withdrawal of alternate currency and extended by 10 days deadline for use of the defunct 500 and 1000 rupee notes for paying utility and fuel bills.
The Finance Ministry took a series of steps to increase cash supply in the system, including introducing a new 500 rupee note in the recalibrated ATMs. About 1.3 lakh branch post offices will be stacked with cash and hundreds of new micro cash machines will be installed across the country.
Also, a Task Force was set up to expedite process of recalibration of ATMs as well as draw up action plan and ensure implementation of this action plan for quick changeover to enable them to dispense new bank notes of Rs 500 and Rs 2000.
The measures followed ever increasing queues at banks growing even after nearly a week of the government decision to withdraw higher denomination notes. Today being a bank holiday in northern and western India, long queues are expected tomorrow with people wanting to withdraw money or swap the old 500 and 1000 rupee notes.
About half of the ATMs have not yet started functioning and wherever were operational ran out of cash in no time.
Economic Affairs Secretary Shaktikant Das said the government has also raised cash withdrawal limit of at least three-month old current accounts to Rs 50,000 per week and ATMs would start dispensing new 2000 rupee notes within two days.
The government extended use of old defunct Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes for paying household utility bills, fuel, taxes and fees and purchases from cooperative stores till November 24.
While withdrawing Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes from the intervening night of November 8-9, the government had allowed use of the old currency at government hospitals, railway ticketing, public transport, airline ticketing at airports, milk booths, crematoria/burial grounds and petrol pumps for 72 hours.
This list was later expanded to include payments for metro rail tickets, highway and road toll, purchase of medicines on doctor prescription from the government and private pharmacies, LPG gas cylinders, railway catering, electricity and water bills and ASI monument entry tickets.
As banks struggled to give alternate currency, the deadline was extended by another 72 hours. That deadline was to end at midnight tonight, but has now been extended till November 24, he said.
Old currency can also be used for purchases at consumer cooperative stores like Kendriya Bhandar with valid ID proof as also for paying court fee.
But payments towards utility bills will be restricted to only individuals or households for arrears and/or current bills. No advance payments will be allowed.
With banks receiving Rs 2 lakh crore in deposits in first four days, the government raised limits on withdrawals and exchange of old banknotes.
The daily limit on withdrawals from ATMs has been raised to Rs 2,500 from Rs 2,000 earlier while the weekly cap has been hiked to Rs 24,000 from Rs 20,000. Also, the restriction of daily withdrawal of Rs 10,000 through cheque or withdrawal slip has been dispensed away and such drawals would be within the overall Rs 24,000 a week limit.
Old notes of value up to Rs 4,500 a day can now be exchanged as against Rs 4,000 limit previously.
The notes withdrawn accounted for 86 per cent of the currency in circulation and Das said the government is stepping up efforts to ensure banknotes of all denominations are available at banks.
Banks remained opened across the country through the weekend to deal with the rush.
"The ATMs are progressively getting recalibrated. As and when they are recalibrated, the cash limit of such ATMs will stand enhanced to Rs 2500 per withdrawal. This will enable dispensing of lower denomination currency notes for about Rs 500 per withdrawal. Other ATMs which are yet to be recalibrated, will continue to dispense Rs 2000 till they are recalibrated," he said.
Adequate cash will be made available with District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs) to facilitate withdrawal from existing accounts. The cash withdrawal limits for banks will apply in case of DCCBs also.
"There is enough cash in the system to meet the requirement. Members of the public are, therefore, advised not to have any sense of panic," he said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed the supply and availability of currency notes late last evening in a meeting that went on till past midnight.
It was attended among others by Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Urban Development and I&B Minister Venkiah Naidu.
It was also attended by the RBI Governor Urjit Patel.
"The Meeting took stock of the current status of supply of cash and took certain decisions to further activate the dispensing of cash through the networks of banking correspondents, post offices, ATMs, banks and E-payment systems," an official statement said.
The cash holding limit of banking correspondents has been raised to Rs 50,000 and banks will replenish the cash with them multiple times in a day as per requirement.
Banking correspondents have wide presence in the rural areas. Totally there are 1.2 lakh BCs in the country. The above decisions will facilitate wider reach in the rural areas for exchange and withdrawal of cash from Bank Accounts.
The government will take necessary steps for revival of NAFED while people involved in wrongdoings in the co-operative should be punished, Minister of State for Agriculture, Purshottam Rupala said today.
Inaugurating the 63rd All India Co-operative Week organised by National Co-operative Union of India (NCUI), Rupala assured that he would take necessary steps for revival of National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation (NAFED).
"The people who were involved in the wrongdoings during NAFED scam should be punished, but the institution should not suffer," he said.
NAFED is currently procuring pulses on behalf of the government.
NAFED had incurred bad debt of around Rs 1,600 crore in the "tie-up" businesses during 2003-06. The cooperative had provided financial support of Rs 3,945 crore to 62 private parties for trading in non-agri items and out of that, many turned defaulters.
NAFED has been incurring losses because of mounting interest liability on outstanding loans due to its failed 'tie-up business'. It has been seeking a revival package from the government to run its operation.
Rupala asked the NCUI to initiate steps to popularise co-operative model amongst youth.
He further said that the problems which farmers are facing should be brought to government notice by NCUI.
Rupala said that there is a need to consider co-operative model of development as the best model of development in the country.
In this regard, he emphasised the need to disseminate success stories of Amul among the masses.
The Minister said that forming co-operatives among small and marginal farmers having 5-10 acres of land is very important to strengthen agriculture operations in the country.
NCUI president Chandra Pal Singh Yadav said that the co-operatives could be the best agencies for implementation of government schemes and programmes.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Gujarat Government today inaugurated 52 generic medicine stores across the state wherein medicines would be sold at a much cheaper rate than the market price.
One such store, named as 'Deendayal Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Store', was inaugurated today inside Civil Hospital premises here by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, an official release said.
Medicines sold in these stores will be 30 to 80 per cent cheaper than those being sold in the market, it said.
Around 1,500 to 2,000 life saving medicines will be sold from each of these stores.
Rupani said such stores would give a huge relief to poor and middle class citizens.
The Chief Minister announced that his government would open 500 more stores in the next phase of expansion.
Rupani also launched a mobile application - 'G-Dava', which can be used by citizens to get details about various medicines sold in generic stores as well as in private pharmacies, said the release.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Lambasting those criticising demonetisation, actor Anupam Kher today said had the issue of displacement of Kashmiri Pandits been raised as vociferously, their problem would have been solved by now.
"If somebody is making efforts to make things better, let us not stop him. Let us constructively come together and support. Still if you feel troubled, then elections are due in 2019, they (people) will not allow (BJP) to come back (to power)," he told reporters here.
The 61-year-old actor was here to take part in concluding function of the three-day Lok Manthan programme organised by the Madhya Pradesh government and NGO Pragya Pravah.
Kher, who has Kashmiri origins, said, "Had the people of the country raised the issue of displacement of Kashmiri Pandits (KP) in the similar manner, a solution would have been found to their problem by now.
"Problem is we remained silent for last 60 years on so many issues," he said referring to Emergency, 1984 anti-Sikh riots etc.
Asked about people being forced to stand in long queues to withdraw money, Kher said, "You also stand in line for movie tickets.
"It is very easy to criticise someone. That is the easiest thing. But for 'these' people praising somebody is quite difficult. If people think that corruption and black money is a major problem, we should praise the move," he said.
Demonetisation would also tackle the issue of counterfeit currency being pumped into the country from Pakistan, he said.
Kher was quick to add that he was not praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi because his wife (Kirron Kher) was a BJP MP.
Kher criticised Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who
won a landslide verdict on anti-corruption plank for criticising the demonetisation move.
"For the last two to two-and-a-half years, he is doing nothing except pointing fingers at others," the actor said.
Touching upon the much-debated 'intolerance' issue, Kher said, "These days if we talk about patriotism, some people start feeling troubled."
The row over intolerance was raised unnecessarily, he said.
For every Indian, the nation should be of paramount importance, Kher said, adding that every individual has unique and different identities, but the first identity is Indian.
Buddhist leader Samdong Rinpoche and actor-writer Chandraprakash Dwivedi also addressed the function.
As Punjab decided to hold a special Assembly session on November 16 on Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal issue, the Haryana government today announced to hold Cabinet meeting tomorrow to discuss the matter.
Meanwhile, Haryana's main opposition party INLD stepped up the heat on the BJP-led state government by giving it an ultimatum to get the construction of the canal completed by February 23 next year.
The Cabinet meeting will be held here tomorrow under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, an official spokesperson said.
"The SYL issue will definitely be discussed among other things during the Cabinet meeting," Amit Arya, media advisor to the Haryana Chief Minister, said.
The Haryana unit of BJP has also called a meeting of its MLAs tomorrow evening to discuss the issue, sources said.
Punjab's ruling Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) is weighing its options to bring a bill aimed at scrapping all water-sharing pacts during the special session of the state Assembly on November 16.
Meanwhile, INLD accused Congress and BJP of politicising the SYL issue and gave an ultimatum to the government to get the canal completed by February 23.
"If the work does not start, INLD and the people of Haryana will start digging the canal," Leader of Opposition Abhay Chautala said after the party's executive body meeting here.
The central leaderships of Congress and BJP have been only keen to remain in by just making statements on the SYL issue, he alleged, adding, "They should make it clear if they are with Punjab or Haryana on the issue."
He urged the parties to cut across political lines and put their efforts to get the canal completed in the interest of the state.
"INLD will seek time from President Pranab Mukherjee to meet him in connection with the issue and demand imposition of President's rule in Punjab. The party will also request the completion of the canal," Chautala said.
Political temperatures have risen in Punjab and Haryana after the Supreme Court held as "unconstitutional" the 2004 law passed by Punjab to terminate the SYL canal water sharing agreement with Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Delhi and Chandigarh.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Madras High Court today granted four months time to police to complete the probe into a criminal case pending against former Tamil Nadu minister and AIADMK nominee Senthil Balaji in Aravakurichi assembly constituency where election is to be held on November 19.
A division bench granted the time after perusing the status report filed by the Central Crime Branch Assistant Commissioner of Police in a sealed cover, complying with its October 26 direction.
The court had sought the status report while rejecting the prayer in a petition for a direction to disallow nomination of Senthil Balaji in view of the pending criminal case.
While disposing of the petition, the court had said it would monitor the case and directed police to file the final report within 15 days after the three-month period.
The petitioner alleged that he had given Rs 4.25 crore to Senthil Balaji, when he was the transport minister in the previous AIADMK regime, through his personal assistant for getting jobs to several persons in the department.
He also submitted Balaji had issued a life threat to him when he approached him after the jobs as promised were not given.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Strengthening it's SUV portfolio, Hyundai Motor India today launched all new Tucson with an introductory price ranging between Rs 18.99 lakh and Rs 24.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).
The company has launched the third generation Tucson with both petrol and diesel powertrains.
The manual petrol variant is priced at Rs 18.99 lakh while the diesel versions are priced between Rs 21.59 lakh and Rs 23.48 lakh.
The petrol automatic is priced at Rs 21.79 lakh while the one with diesel powertrain is priced at Rs 24.99 lakh.
"With the launch of all new Tucson, we aim to strengthen presence in the premium segment with strong leadership positions," Hyundai Motor India Ltd MD & CEO YK Koo told reporters here.
The launch of third generation all new Tucson will create a benchmark by giving Hyundai experience to the aspirational Indian customers, he added.
With over 45 lakh units sold globally, Tucson is one of the best selling SUVs in the world, Koo said.
Tucson comes with 2 litre petrol and diesel engine options and new various features including a puddle lamp, downhill brake control and front and rear parking sensors.
The petrol version with manual transmission company comes with 155 PS of power and delivers a fuel efficiency of 13.03 km/ litre. The petrol automatic delivers a fuel efficiency of 12.95 km/ litre.
The diesel variant with manual transmission offers 185 PS of power and a claimed fuel efficiency of 18.42 km/litre. The diesel automatic delivers a fuel efficiency of 16.38 km/ litre.
Hyundai Motor India, which crossed the 70 lakh sales milestone in domestic as well as export markets, aims to have four SUV models in its product portfolio in the next four years.
The company also plans to launch a sub 4-metre compact SUV in order to fill the gap that lies below Creta. It had showcased concept compact SUV Carlino at the Auto Expo this year in February. The model is under development right now.
With Tucson, the company now has three SUVs along with Creta and Santa Fe.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The India International Trade Fair has no significance this time and will not yield any tangible results as the trading community is reeling under sever cash crunch due to demonetisation, Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said.
Sisodia, who inaugurated 'Delhi Pavilion' at the 14-day India International Trade Fair (IITF) which began here today, said that it was a "sad event" in view of business.
"It is a sad event from the point of view of trade. When there is no trade, what is the significance of the fair then? We are following a mere custom to participate in it," the Deputy Chief Minister told reporters here.
Though the trade fair is a hub of business, it will not have such a result for the first time since its inception this year as traders are hassled due to the Centre's decision to demonetise high-denomination Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, he said.
He alleged that due to demonetisation, there has been a significant dip in tax collection and the government was not getting sufficient revenue.
"The government is not receiving revenue. Business has affected severely. People do not have money to eat food. They are sleeping outside ATMs to withdraw cash, but people who have black money are sleeping comfortably.
"People's jobs are in jeopardy. What will the common people eat? It was just customary (to participate in trade fair)," he said.
The theme of 'Delhi Pavilion' this year is 'Digital Delhi'.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
India wants a broad outline or roadmap for the implementation of the Paris agreement to be finalised at the crucial climate change conference here, Environment Minister Anil Madhav Dave said today.
The Environment Minister, who arrived here to attend the high-level segment of the ongoing Conference of Parties (CoP22) which begins tomorrow, said India will push the world for adopting a low carbon lifestyle during discussions.
Asked about India's stand on pressure from civil society groups on governments to put an end to coal usage especially with the country's heavy dependence on it, Dave said a decision cannot be reached by becoming an activist but one has to think "holistically".
"Whatever goals were fixed in Paris, the countries need to make route maps of that (here). Off course it will be for the post 2020 period. But if we do not talk and decide about it today (in Marrakech) how will such big nations form their policies," Dave said.
"If the Marrakech conference makes even a broad outline of it, it will be a big achievement for us and for the world as we will at least finalise the routes of the Paris agreement. We can do the detailing in the next two years. But major goals should be finalised. These are the expectations," he said on the sidelines of an event at the India Pavilion here.
The CoP22 started on November 7 and will go on till November 18 as nations continue their work on strengthening the global response to the threat of climate change, with the central focus on enhancing ambition, promoting implementation and providing support.
Before the start of the conference, the Environment Ministry had said India will push the agenda of sustainable lifestyle at the global climate conference apart from focussing on the issue of mobilising finances, which has been its "overriding" concern, to tackle climate change.
Dave said India will push the issue of following a low carbon lifestyle during the summit which all nations including developed and developing countries need to follow and asserted that unless all the countries do this, talks will not yield results.
He also referred to the example of Delhi where he said despite pollution levels being high, people continue to burst crackers.
"We will push for low carbon lifestyles. We had taken it up in pre-CoP meetings as well. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had in Paris also talked about it (that countries need to decrease carbon emissions)," Dave said.
"...Its like that Delhi situation, you are bursting crackers even in marriage processions but you know breathing has become a problem then how it will work. Everybody (nations) has to decrease (emissions)," Dave said.
"We want to bring this issue to the notice of both developed as well as developing countries. All (countries) have to contribute," he said.
India is likely to stress the urgency to take adaptation
action as adaptation in the agriculture sector from the point of view of food security is a key priority for developing countries.
India is also likely to push operationalisation and meaningful outcomes from the new bodies set up under the Paris agreement which includes technology framework and Paris committee on capacity building.
Asked about India's stand on civil society groups urging governments to put an end to the usage of coal, Dave said, "They are raising their own points. But when you make policies for your country or for the world, one cannot do that by being activists."
"One has to think about it holistically. You cannot shut down all the machinery like railways etc. They are putting up their point that is good. We will think about it in totality and then take a decision," he said.
Asked how India will work on the issue of water in terms of climate change adaptation measures, Dave said India will coming out with a full agenda "exclusively" on water in 2017.
An Indian national was killed and a Nepali policeman injured in an heavy exchange of fire between police and an armed group of smugglers in central Rautahat district.
Acting on a tip off that a huge cache of arms was being smuggled into the district via the Lalbakaiya River embankment at Dewahi VDC-8, a police team reached the site, but the gang comprising 3-4 individuals opened fire at the team.
Police also fired in retaliation and in the heavy exchange of fire a gang member, identified as Tejhilal Saha, 44, from East Champaran in Bihar, was killed and a Nepali policeman was injured, Nepali Deputy Superintendent of Police Nabin Krishna Bhandari was quoted as saying by local media.
One rifle, a home-made pistol and some bullets were recovered from the possession of the deceased. Others in the group are on the run and search for them is underway.
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A 15-year-old Indian-origin boy hanged himself to death allegedly after being bullied in a school in the city of Leicester in the East Midlands region of England.
Brandon Singh Rayat died in August but his mother, Mina Rayat, decided to speak out today at the start of National Anti-Bullying Week.
"I begged doctors to hospitalise him because it was all too much. I told them he wanted to kill himself," she told 'Leicester Mercury' newspaper.
"Although Brandon received help, he was never detained. His anxiety got worse so that it became a complete phobia. He wouldn't leave the house in case he bumped into anyone from school," the 44-year-old added.
A full inquest into Brandon's death will take place in January.
He was found hanged in his bedroom with a scarf on August 9, after several failed suicide attempts including drinking bleach as well as slashing his wrists.
The teenager became suicidal after his schoolmates started calling him a "paedo" and a "faggot" as part of prolonged cyber attacks.
He stopped attending Judgemeadow Community College in Leicester last November.
Mina, a hair and beauty therapist who lives with her 41-year-old husband Raj, a shop worker, said: "We feel totally let down, by both the school and by the doctors. Those boys who were his friends once have killed him. They have taken his life away and they have ruined our lives. There is a hole left in our hearts and there was no need for it. He deserved better treatment. I wouldn't want any other parent to go through what I've been through."
James McKenna, principal of Judgemeadow Community College, said: "The whole school was extremely saddened by Brandon's death, and our thoughts remain with his family. It wouldn't be appropriate to comment in detail in advance of the coroner's inquest, but we can say that Judgemeadow takes the welfare of its pupils very seriously and does not tolerate bullying in any form."
A spokesperson for Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, which runs mental health services, said: "We were deeply saddened by the tragic death of Brandon Rayat, and extend our sincere sympathies to the family once again. We met with the family immediately after Brandon's death, and their comments are reflected in the robust serious incident investigation which we have carried out."
The report will be shared with the family in preparation for the inquest in January.
"It would be inappropriate for us to comment further until that inquest has taken place. In the meanwhile, we remain committed to offering appropriate support to the family at this difficult time," the spokesperson said.
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India-China Joint Military Training exercise, 'Hand in Hand 2016' will be held here from tomorrow to November 27.
The exercise is in continuation of the series of joint exercises between India and China, a Defence release issued here said today.
"This will be the sixth joint training exercise by the Indian Army with People's Liberation Army of China. It is held annually, alternately, in India and China," it said.
The first exercise was held in China at Kunming of Yunnan province in 2007 and the last exercise was held in October 2015 in Kunming Military Academy, Yunnan Province in China, it said.
As per the release, the aim of joint training is to share expertise in drills and practices while tackling insurgency and terrorism, thereby promoting healthy military to military relations between the two armies and developing joint strategies for conducting operations in a counter terrorism environment.
It also said forming part of the different levels of the military to military engagement across the entire spectrum of operations, this exercise will enrich the two contingents in further honing basic military skills.
"The exercise is planned at the company level with respective battalion headquarters controlling the training. The exercise is supervised by a Joint Directing Panel comprising senior officials of both the countries," the release said.
'Exercise Hand in Hand 2016' will be conducted in three phases. The first phase consists of familiarisation with the weapons and equipment.
The second phase consists of the conduct of basic training which includes combat conditioning, firing of personal weapon, support weapon and practice of drills like establishment of covert observation post, house clearing, cordon & search and humanitarian and disaster relief operations.
The third phase is the conduct of joint exercise. The exercise will be attended by the senior military observers of both the countries, the release said.
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China today reacted guardedly to the landmark civil nuclear deal recently signed between India and Japan, saying it should "safeguard the authority and effectiveness" of the international nuclear non-proliferation regime.
"With regard to nuclear agreement signed between India and Japan and on the use nuclear energy, we believe that under the promise of absorbing international obligation of nuclear non proliferation, all countries are entitled to the peaceful use of nuclear energy," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told media briefing here.
"At the same time, the relevant cooperation should be conducive to safeguard the authority and effectiveness of the international nuclear non-proliferation regime," he said.
About the reference to the South China Sea in the joint statement issued at the end of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Tokyo, Geng said "under the concerted efforts of the countries in the region including China, the situation in the South China Sea is developing in a positive direction".
"We have been repeating that we should come back to the right track of peacefully resolving the relevant dispute through negotiations and consultation.
"We hope that the countries outside the region would respect efforts made by countries in the region and safeguard as well as consolidate the sound momentum in the South China Sea and and do more that is conducive toregional peace and stability," he said in a cautious response.
On the South China Sea, the joint statement issued by India and Japan said that "the two Prime Ministers stressed the importance of resolving the disputes by peaceful means, in accordance with universally recognised principles of international law including the UN Convention on Law of Sea (UNCLOS)".
Ahead of Modi's visit, another Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said China hopes that India and Japan would take into consideration the "legitimate concerns" of their neighbours.
China claims the whole of South China Sea. Its claims are disputed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan.
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Israel's high court today rejected a government bid to delay the evacuation of a wildcat Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank beyond a December deadline, in a case that has drawn international concern.
The Amona outpost is under a court order to be evacuated by December 25 since it was built on private Palestinian land, but right-wing politicians have called for the around 40 families living there to be allowed to remain.
"The evacuation must occur before December 25," the court said in its ruling. "The court rejects the delay requested by the state."
In what seemed to be a sharp criticism of the government, it further said that "the duty to obey rulings is not a matter of choice.
"It is an essential component of the rule of law to which all are bound as part of the values of the state of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state."
Whether the government moves ahead with the demolition of Amona has been seen as a test case of whether it will heed international calls to halt settlement expansion in the West Bank.
The government, which had sought a seven-month delay while it considered where to move the Amona settlers, is seen as the most right-wing in Israel's history.
Key members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition advocate settlement building while openly opposing the idea of a Palestinian state.
"We're aware of the duress of the Amona residents and are acting in different ways to solve the problem," Netanyahu told lawmakers from his Likud party today.
The high court ruled in 2014 that Amona, northeast of Ramallah in the central West Bank, must be evacuated.
There are concerns over how any evacuation will play out.
In 2006, the demolition of nine permanent houses in the outpost led to clashes between settlers and Israeli forces.
With the Amona deadline in mind, a committee of Israeli ministers yesterday approved a draft bill to legalise Jewish settlements built on private Palestinian land in communities that meet certain criteria.
The Palestinian landowners would be offered compensation in return for the land being seized.
The legislation is expected to apply to between 2,000 and 3,000 settler homes in the West Bank, which Israel seized in the 1967 Six Day War and which the Palestinians want for a future state of their own.
The bill must still be approved by Israel's Knesset, or parliament.
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Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das today said his government's aim is to free the state from extremism and crime.
Though crime has been controlled, it should be rooted out, Das said while addressing programmes of parade and Jharkhand Police Alankaran Samaroh on the eve of Jharkhand foundation day here.
The chief minister announced that 10,000 police personnel and 2,500 assistant police would be recruited next year.
Stating that the assistant police personnel would be deployed in extremist-hit areas, Das said they would get Rs 10,000 per month and their services would be confirmed after three years.
The government would construct residential school for the children of police personnel in Ranchi, according to an official release.
Likening peace and prosperity as two wheels, Das said both were required for development.
The government was working to modernise the police force, he said, adding infrastructure was also being improved.
To provide employment to the youth, investments were required, Das said and added Rs 24,000 crore proposals were already there.
For investments peace was necessary and investments increased following prevailing of peace in Jharkhand.
Das appealed to the police to pro-actively assist Prime Minister Narendra Modi's campaign against black money.
The chief minister honoured the families of martyrs and gave away prizes to the police personnel.
State Chief Secretary Rajbala Verma, Additional Secretary N N Pandey, DGP D K Pandey, CM's Principal Secretary Sanjay Kumar were among senior officials present at the programme.
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Ruling AIADMK today claimed party supremo and Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa's statement has created a 'wave of joy' in the state, especially among her supporters, as some workers distributed sweets outside Apollo Hospital, where she has been admitted since September 22.
AIADMK Spokesperson C Ponnaiyan said Jayalalithaa was "very well" and that she will soon take over the reins of the party as well as governance.
"The Chief Minister is very well and will be returning home soon. The time when governance and political work under Amma duly happens is just around the corner," he said.
Speaking to reporters here, he thanked the doctors who treated the 68 year-old leader and people who prayed for her recovery.
Referring to her first communication yesterday in about 50 days since being first hospitalised for fever and dehydration, Ponnaiyan said it has resulted in a "wave of joy" in the state.
Another party spokesperson, Panruty S Ramachandran, said Jayalalithaa's signed statement proved she was ready to serve the people of the state again.
"She has made it clear she is ready once again for public service. She has said she has taken rebirth. This shows her service to people of Tamil Nadu has not gone waste," he said.
Meanwhile, buoyed by Jayalalithaa's statement, some party workers distributed sweets to members of public outside the Apollo Hospital here.
Jayalalithaa had yesterday said she had taken 'rebirth' because of the prayers of the people and urged them to vote for the AIADMK in the November 19 polls to three assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu and one in Puducherry.
In her first communication since being hospitalised in September, the chief minister said she did not have any grievances in view of the people's "great love" for her, and that, "by God's grace, very soon, by recovering fully, I am waiting to resume work."
The AIADMK supremo was admitted to Apollo Hospital here on September 22 after she complained of fever and dehydration. Later, the hospital had said she was being treated for an infection with respiratory support, among others, by doctors including specialists from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, and from London.
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Intensifying the crackdown on laundering of illicit wealth, tax authorities are keeping a close vigil on jewellers to check if sales are being broken down into sub-Rs 2 lakh to avoid quoting of PAN.
After the government banned old 500 and 1000 rupee notes, gold and bullion are said to be favoured route for laundering of ill-gotten wealth.
Gold was sold as high as Rs 50,000 per ten grams last week against the market price of Rs 31,000 as gold and bullion was said to be used to convert the debunked currency. A 20-40 per cent haircut in the value of defunct currency was also being resorted to launder black money.
"PAN is mandatory for jewellery sale of over Rs 2 lakh. We are keeping a watch on jewellers to see if they are breaking their sales into parts of less than Rs 2 lakh," CBDT Chairman Sushil Chandra told reporters here.
Necessary action and penalty, he said, would be initiated wherever violations are found.
"Whether it is deposit of cash or sale of goods in old currency note, we are keeping a watch and taking steps," he said after inaugurating the CBDT pavilion at IITF.
The government is reportedly also looking at asking jewellers to deposit old high-value currency notes by a set date to prevent money laundering. Also, there are fears that jewellers could show backdated cash sales.
While jewellers and diamond traders usually show bills every week while depositing cash generated through sales, very high value deals in cash are often split in smaller amounts or stolen PAN number is cited on bills.
Industry insiders say the modus operandi is to use unaccounted gold stock against receipt of demonetised currencies at a heavily discounted rate.
Jewellers stayed open into the early hours soon after the Tuesday night announcement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to withdraw old 500 and 1000 rupee notes in the nation's biggest crackdown on black money, corruption and counterfeit currency.
As much as 250-kg gold was reportedly sold in Mumbai within a few hours of the announcement.
Finance Ministry has ordered all its revenue intelligence agencies to join the crackdown on jewellers and hawala operators besides tracking movement of demonetised currency notes.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Directorate General of Central Excise intelligence (DGCEI) have now joined the income tax department in the crackdown.
The Income Tax department has sent around 600 notices to jewellers across 25 cities asking them to detail daily sales between November 7 and 10.
Teams of DGCEI officials are also visiting major jewellery stores and their manufacturing units to serve notices seeking these details, sources said.
Jewellers in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Bhopal, Vijaywada, Nashik and Lucknow are initially under the scrutiny of the DGCEI officials, they said, adding that this exercise can later be extended to other cities too.
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Indian-origin British actor Dev Patel says his upcoming film "Lion" is special as it is hard to find performance oriented roles for someone like him.
In Garth Davis' feature, Patel plays Saroo Brierley, a young Indian boy who gets adopted by an Australian family, only to find his birth mother two decades later using Google Earth.
The actor said he fully committed himself to his role, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
"I called my manager straight after I walked out of the audition and told him that if I get it, don't send me anything for the next eight months. Don't distract me with any other work or audition.
"Journeys like this don't come around very often for someone who looks like I do," said Patel.
The actor revealed that he auditioned for the role several times, including a Skype session from a bathroom. The actor said during a six-hour long audition process Davis asked him to roar like a lion.
"After the audition, (Davis) said 'If we decide to go with you. I really want you to change'. He said he wanted to see a Dev Patel that no one has ever seen before."
"Lion" also starring Nicole Kidman and Rooney Mara is scheduled to release on November 25.
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Rolling out red carpet towomen entrepreneurs, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiahtoday expressed confidence that with several initiatives taken, the state would soon occupy the top slot for women entrepreneurship.
He urged women entrepreneurs to explore entrepreneurial opportunities in Karnataka and make the statetheir base.
"I am happy to note that Karnataka's diversity ratioin employment and entrepreneurship is amongst the best inIndia. Our eco-system is regarded as the benchmark for womento live and work and I am happy that we are in the rightdirection," Siddaramaiah said at the event "ThinkBig 2016".
He said that according to the fourth Medium,Small and Micro Enterprises (MSME) census, Karnataka, Kerala,Tamil Nadu and West Bengal have 51.9 per cent of the country's women-owned business indicating the potential that exists in our State and country.
"I am sure with the initiativestaken up, Karnataka would soon be in the top slot...," he said.
"ThinkBig 2016", which is projected to be Asia'slargest women entrepreneurship and economic empowerment summit, is being organised by Karnataka government, together with WEConnect International in India and Thinkthrough Consulting (TTC).
According to the organisers, the event is aimed at bringing together more than 2,000 women entrepreneurs, 300 Industry leaders and 400 businesses and 35 top banks to connect women entrepreneurs across the globe with the "thriving" business ecosystem in Karnataka.
Speaking on special attention being given to women entrepreneurs to encourage enterprise creation and industrial capacity building, he said, there has been unprecedented response from them.
"Initially we thought of developing one Women's Park at Harohally near Bangalore. But, surprisingly there was a great response from all over the State to set up parks forwomen.
Going by the enthusiasm generated amongst women entrepreneurs, I am sure we would have Women's Park all over the State soon," he added.
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US Secretary of State John Kerry held talks today with officials in Oman on efforts to end Yemen's 19-month conflict, state media in Muscat said.
Kerry and Oman's Foreign Minister Yusuf bin Alawi discussed the "peaceful and humanitarian role played by the sultanate in Yemen," ONA state agency reported.
Kerry later met with Oman's ruler Sultan Qaboos with whom he discussed "regional and international developments," ONA said.
The visit to Oman is one of Kerry's last trips as secretary of state before President Barack Obama's administration steps down in January.
The US chief diplomat has been pushing for a settlement in Yemen, where a deadly conflict between Iran-backed rebels and the government escalated after a Saudi-led coalition intervened on behalf of the government in March 2015.
Oman, one of the few Arab states to have good relations with Iran, has used its links to mediate peace talks between the insurgents and the UN-recognised government of President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi.
It is also the only Arab nation in the Gulf which is not taking part in the coalition, although it maintains good relations with regional powerhouse Saudi Arabia.
More than 7,000 people have been killed and nearly 37,000 wounded in Yemen since March 2015, and the UN says millions are in need of food aid.
Another 21 million people urgently need health services, according to the UN health agency.
Today, 12 civilians, including a child, were killed in an air raid that targeted a convoy of three lorries in central Ibb province, while nine rebels were killed in an ambush in the same region, military and medical sources said.
Five other rebels, three soldiers and one civilian were killed Sunday in renewed violence in the southwestern province of Taez, military sources said.
After Oman, Kerry will travel to Abu Dhabi for talks on regional conflicts, including Syria.
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In a breakthrough in the kidnapping case of two brothers for extortion, the Special Task Force (STF) today arrested the main accused Ranjit Mandal alias Ranjit Don in Bihar's Lakhisarai district.
Superintendent of Police (SP) Ashok Kumar said the STF acting on a tip off raided Baudh Nagar village and caught the accused from his relative's house, where he had come to attend a shraddh, with the help of local police.
Mandal is the main accused in the kidnapping of two brothers - Suresh Chandra Sharma and Kapil Sharma, who are sons of a marble merchant Babulal Sharma, who hails from Rajasthan, Kumar said.
The two brothers were abducted for ransom from Jai Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna on October 22 soon after they alighted from a commercial flight for a business deal.
They were hid by the abductors at a hideout in the remote jungles in Lakhsarai for four days before they were rescued by the SIT headed by Manu Maharaj, the senior superintendent of police of Patna district, on October 26 last.
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Omi Vaidya's became an overnight sensation after playing nerdy 'Chatur Ramalingam' in 2009 film "3 Idiots' but did not do as many films in India and the actor cites lack of challenging roles as the reason for his absence from Bollywood.
Post "3 idiots", Omi starred in just four films - "Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji", "Desi Boyz", "Players" and "Jodi Breakers", which released in 2012.
The actor 34-year-old actor says though he has enjoyed his stint with Hindi films especially in terms of money, he was not getting roles which excited him enough.
"I am grateful for being remembered for my role in '3 Idiots' because most people work all their lives to get that kind of fame. I got into this profession because I wanted to do something different. '3 Idiots' was very challenging as I did not know the language and I did not grow up in India," Omi told PTI over phone from Washington DC.
The actor says travelling to exotic locales for his films shoots and getting to hang out with big Bollywood stars was a great experience but was not enough to convince him to continue doing big-budget movies in India.
"After '3 Idiots', I did take up other projects which were enjoyable, I was paid very well and was appreciated by people. But the challenge of life is about learning constantly. Some people are just happy with making good money but I want to continue growing and for that you have to do different things. I strive on doing something different."
Omi is currently busy being a hands-on father to his son, who was born last year. Besides fatherhood, he is also starring in a new Indian-American show "Brown Nation", which is an entertaining, slice of life series focused on life a struggling small IT business owner in New York.
"Brown Nation" has been created and written by Matt Grubb, George Kanatt and Abi Varghese.
"I had a child so these are the times you can't replace. I am just trying to spend as much time with my son and wife as I can. I am also working on projects like 'Brown Nation' which is novel and ground-breaking. I wanted to do something more challenging than the same old Bollywood films."
The series will release on Netflix on November 15. Besides Omi, the series also features Rajeev Varma, Shenaz Treasurywala and Melanie Chandra.
Omi, who plays Balan, the South Indian guy hired to work in the company, says "Brown Nation" will deliver a slice of typical Indian life with ironies intact.
"I play Balan. It is a very different from anything that I have ever done and a show like this has also not been made before. It is an Indian show and it's going to get a place in America, besides getting a worldwide audience thanks to Netflix."
Other than India-themed shows on US television and Indian origin actors, Omi is also happy to see Bollywood stars like Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone making a mark with their respective projects in America.
Referring to Priyanka's FBI agent role in US TV series "Quantico", the actor says,"South Asians are typically known in the US as computer scientists, convenience store owners, lawyers or doctors. Having an Indian as an FBI agent is a very good thing.
"It is great to see more Indians making a mark. Be it Aziz Ansari ('Master of None'), Priyanka or Deepika Padukone in a film. All of this is progress. We need to see more people who look like us on TV or in movies.
Two men who cooperated with authorities investigating a Minnesota conspiracy to join the Islamic State group in Syria were rewarded with lighter sentences today by a federal judge, who told one of the men he hoped his lenience wasn't a mistake.
Abdullahi Mohamed Yusuf, 20, was sentenced to the 21 months he's already served in jail plus 20 years of supervised release. Abdirizak Warsame, 21, didn't fare as well, but his sentence of two and a half years in prison was two years less than prosecutors sought.
District Judge Michael Davis, who will sentence all nine men in the conspiracy this week in separate hearings, said it didn't make sense to send Yusuf to prison. He pleaded guilty to a terror charge and testified against several of the others.
"I think we'll miss the opportunity to help this young kid," Davis said of sending him to prison. "I hope I'm not wrong."
"I will not let you down, your honor," Yusuf told the judge. Earlier, Yusuf said he was "not the same naive 17-year-old" who was drawn into the conspiracy, and said he now rejects the Islamic State.
"ISIL's ideology is flawed," Yusuf said. "There is nothing Islamic about their so-called state."
Prosecutors had asked for 42 months, but US Attorney Andy Luger praised Yusuf for cooperating with their case and told Davis he accepted the shorter sentence.
Davis was sterner with Warsame, who told the judge he had been manipulated. Davis said he didn't buy Warsame's claims that he's no longer a radical. "The problem I have with you is everything has seemed so smooth," the judge said. But he went on to tell Warsame he was getting lucky.
"For the next round of sentencings, it's going to be a whole different ballgame, so count your blessings," Davis said.
One more man was to be sentenced later today, and the remaining six tomorrow and Wednesday.
The sentencings cap a long court case that shined a light on terrorism recruitment in Minnesota. The state, with the largest concentration of Somali immigrants in the US, has struggled with the issue in recent years.
The FBI has said about a dozen people have left Minnesota to join militant groups in Syria in recent years. Before that, more than 22 men were recruited to al-Shabab in Somalia since 2007.
Prosecutors said the conspiracy of the nine began in spring 2014, when a group of friends began inspiring and recruiting each other to travel to Syria to join IS.
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Alarmed at the use of pharmaceutical drugs like Chloral Hydrate and Alprazolam in toddy sold across 250-odd shops in the city, the Maharashtra Excise department has decided to shut them down permanently.
Excise minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule has decided to allow sale of toddy only where it is produced in view of the health hazards.
Chloral Hydrate is used as sedative and hypnotic drug to treat sleep disorders. Its side effects include severe liver or kidney disorders, heart problems, stomach inflammation.
While Alprazolam is used in treating panic and anxiety disorders. Its side effects include dryness of mouth, slurred speech, urinary retention, drowsiness and aggressive behavior.
"Henceforth, permission for toddy shops will be given at places where there are toddy producing trees," a department official said.
He said that after sunrise, the toddy brought down from trees slowly begins to ferment.
"As per a survey by the state Excise department, toddy sold in Mumbai was found to be mixed with Chloral Hydrate and Alprazolam. What alarmed us is that these drugs can cause side effects, if consumed when not needed," the official said.
During the raids conducted by the department at toddy stalls in Mumbai, Pune, Solapur and Nanded cities, it was found that the beverage being sold was mixed with these drugs.
"These two drugs are known to cause continuous state of inebriation. Besides this, another study has revealed widespread addiction among casual labourers who consume it for relaxation," he said.
The official revealed that despite there being no tree in Mumbai that produces toddy, there are around 250 toddy stalls in the metropolis.
Also, there have been reports in Telangana of people succumbing after consuming adulterated toddy, he said.
The state Excise department, meanwhile, has begun conducting a census of toddy trees in the Maharashtra. A maximum of toddy producing trees are found in districts of Sindhudurg, Ratnagiri, Palghar, Sangli, Solapur, Pune and Nanded in the state.
At present, the Excise department has been allowing sale
of toddy, imported from other regions of the state, in Mumbai.
The official said the department was contemplating making it mandatory for plantation of 1,000 toddy producing trees before applying for toddy sale license.
He said that the government earns about Rs 45 crore revenue out of the sale of toddy in the state.
Toddy or palm wine is an alcoholic beverage created from the sap of various species of palm tree such as palmyra, date palms and coconut palms.
Maharashtra Governor Vidyasagar Rao today called upon doctors and hospitals to work in synergy to make the state the preferred destination for medical tourism, which can serve as the stepping stone for India to be a leader in providing affordable and holistic health care.
Rao was speaking after inaugurating the 66th hospital of the Apollo Group of Hospitals at Belapur in Navi Mumbai, which is also the first in Maharashtra.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and State Health Minister Deepak Sawant were also present on the occasion.
"Navi Mumbai is an emerging city. The state government is keen to develop it as a Smart city. With new international airport coming up here, it will come on the global map. The Apollo Hospital is opening here at the right moment," he said.
Rao said today, apart from hospitals in Mumbai, hospitals in Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Delhi are increasingly attracting patients from Gulf and other foreign countries.
"As a matter of fact, number of patients from abroad visiting India for treatment has been growing by 23 to 25 pc annually. The Apollo Group should make conscious efforts alongwith other hospitals to make Maharashtra the preferred destination for medical tourism in the country. For this purpose we will have to market the strengths of our health care sector such as quality, personal care and afford-ability among different countries of the world," he said.
Inaugurating the Global Ayurveda Festival early this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had rightly said that India can be a leader in making affordable, holistic health care available to the world.
"I personally feel that the beginning can be made from Maharashtra. I would like to assure you of all cooperation from the state government in making Maharashtra, the preferred medical tourism destination," the Governor said.
"Healthy citizens are integral to building a healthy society and building a healthy economy. At a time when India is making serious attempt to break into the league of super powers in the world, it is utmost important that we have in place a world class health care system for our people.
"India's doctors and surgeons are the best in the world. It fills our heart with pride when we see our doctors and surgeons having become an integral part of the health care system in the US, the UK and in many other countries.
For a country of 1.25 billion people, we are producing very few doctors. There are 7 physicians per 10,000 population in India, compared to 15 in China, 25 in the US, 28 in the UK and 43 in Russia," he felt and appealed doctors to join the mission.
The Government has launched the Smart cities and Smart
villages programme. This goal cannot be achieved without an element of smart healthcare. Smart healthcare is integral to smart cities and smart villages. Smart does not mean high-end or costly, it means quality healthcare at affordable costs, Rao said.
"We need to evolve a system that provides high quality and affordable medical care to people, particularly to the weaker and disadvantaged sections of society. A huge divide exists between rural and urban India in terms of access to healthcare. I will appeal Apollo Hospital to form a mobile team of doctors and para medical staff as part of its social responsibility," he said.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Fadnavis, who also spoke on the occasion, said that the rural region of the state was facing severe crunch in the form of manpower in health sector and shortage of doctors.
This can be overcome by making use of the modern technologies, he said.
He also declared that by 2018 each and every grampanchayat, school and PHC in the state would be connected through fibre and then health care services would improve. Also, this would also help private hospitals in their services to the rural populace, he said.
Fadnavis wanted Apollo to partner the government in their endeavour to provide quality medical services to the villagers.
He reiterated the state faced several challenges in providing best healthcare in the rural parts of the state and this would be overcome once connectivity was in place.
The Chief Minister also suggested starting a skill development centre in Navi Mumbai with the assistance of the Apollo.
The founder of the hospital, Dr Pratap Reddy also declared that the hospital would perform as many as 66 operations free of cost for the needy on account of being the 66th facility of Apollo in the country.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his statement that poor are enjoying a sound sleep after demonitisation, saying it is an "insult" to the common people.
"The PM in his speech said that the poor are sleeping peacefully. This is an insult to commoners and in bad taste," the TMC supremo said in a tweet after Modi's statement in Ghazipur.
"My humble suggestion is not to hit the common people like this," she said.
Banerjee said while the masses have been victimised and crushed under the weight of demonetisation, many economists are now predicting the onset of recession.
"This will be a killer for the common people. Already a staggering Rs 1.5 lakh crore of GDP has been lost by the economy in only six days," she said in a statement.
Speaking at BJP's 'Parivartan Yatra' in Ghazipur today, Modi said, "After demonetisation, the poor are enjoying a sound sleep while the rich are running from pillar to post to buy sleeping pills."
Banerjee, who is in the forefront of the opposition's attack against the Modi government on demonitisation issue, had said she was not averse to working with arch-rival CPI(M) and other opposition parties like Congress, SP, BSP to fight against the "anti-people" government which has imposed an "undeclared emergency".
She also spoke to President Pranab Mukherjee yesterday over the Centre's demonetisation move and said representatives of political parties will meet him on this issue.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Police this evening arrested a man for killing his father by setting the house on fire at Goraj village in Waghodia tehsil of the district, 40 km from here.
The accused was identified as Arjun Parmar (35).
Inspector Y R Chauhan of Waghodia police station said that Arjun had a heated argument with his father Govind (65) after which he set the house on fire last evening.
Govind, who was very weak, could not escape and died in the fire.
Fire brigade vehicles of Vadodara municipal corporation were rushed to the spot.
Arjun who fled from the spot was arrested this evening.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A Maoist militia commander was today gunned down in an exchange of fire with security forces in Chhattisgarh's insurgency-hit Sukma district, police said.
The skirmish took place in the wee hours between District Reserve Group (DRG) and rebels in the jungles of Dornapal Police Station limits, Sukma Additional Superintendent of Police (Anti-naxal operations), Jitendra Shukla, told PTI.
Acting on a specific input aboutthe presence of a group of armed ultras in the forest between Arlampalli and Medwahi villages, around 500 kms from here, asquad of DRGwas dispatched to the location late last night, he said.
When the DRG party reached the target area in the early hours, they cameunderheavyfirefrom Maoist which led to gun-battle between both the sides,the ASP said.
However, ultras soon fled from the spot.
During the search, body of a naxal clad in 'uniform', a country made rifle, some 12 bore live ammunition, wire and other items were recovered from the spot, he said.
The killed Maoist has been identified as Vanjam Nanda, a very active Militia commander against whom at least12 warrants issued by various courtsin grave naxal offences were pending, the ASP said.
Nandahad served as the head of Janatana Sarkar group Maoists in Arlampalli, Medwahi, Tonguda and Toyapara villages of the region, he said.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
With millions grappling with demonetisation blues, a combative Narendra Modi today defended the action as one which has brought "sound sleep" to the poor and unnerved the corrupt even as his rivals made a common cause against him, terming his remarks as "insult" to people.
As a belligerent Prime Minister sought to rally public support for the contentious measure, hailed and reviled by his supporters and opponents, the demonetisation exercise saw many of his political rivals come together on the issue, with some even alleging BJP leaders had prior information about the impending decision.
Pummelling the Congress and other parties which are criticising demonetisation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the corrupt were upset while the poor were "enjoying a sound sleep" after his decision and urged people to bear some inconvenience to root out graft.
"After demonetisation, the poor are enjoying a sound sleep while rich are running from pillar to post to buy sleeping pills," Modi said as he tried to rally public support in poll-bound Uttar Pradesh, picking up from where he left yesterday in his speeches laced with emotion and aggression in Goa and Belagavi.
"Don't mislead people...I want to ask Congressmen who claim people are facing problems how you turned the entire country into a jail for 19 months by imposing Emergency," he said addressing a rally in Ghazipur, adding it was done only to save the seat of the then prime minister Indira Gandhi after the Allahabad High Court verdict against her, and not out of any concern for the poor.
He said there was no dearth of money for development, but the fact was that money was stashed away somewhere else and not where it should have been.
The November 8 decision of the Modi government, however, brought a fractured opposition together on the issue barely a couple of days ahead of Parliament's winter session with representatives of seven parties-- Congress, TMC, JD(U), RJD, CPI, CPI(M) and YSR (Congress)--discussing the matter. The SP, BSP and AAP, which have strongly criticised the government on the demonetisation issue gave the meeting a miss, besides DMK, AIADMK and NCP.
Mamata Banerjee's TMC has even decided to meet President Pranab Mukherjee on November 16, the day Parliament session starts, to highlight the "crisis" situation.
It was, however, not clear if other parties will join TMC in the delegation to President. The leaders of these parties are likely to meet again tomorrow when representatives from Mayawati's BSP and some others are expected to be present, according to CPI national secretary D Raja.
The Congress accused the Modi government of unleashing "economic anarchy" and "tax terrorism" in the country and called for unity among opposition parties.
"Whatever may be the differences, political parties should not shy away from voicing the concern of the people so as to address the grievances," party's chief spokesman Randeep Surjewala said soon after the meeting of the opposition parties.
Daring Modi to make public the bank details of the party
at the central and state levels, Surjewala alleged that a BJP functionary O P Jha had deposited Rs one crore in party account in West Bengal in currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 on November 8, shortly before the Prime Minister announced their demonetisation.
Mamata Banerjee, who has been in touch with various parties on the issue, including arch rival CPI(M), slammed Modi for his remarks that poor are enjoying a sound sleep after demonetisation, saying it was an "insult" to the common people.
"The PM in his speech said that the poor are sleeping peacefully. This is an insult to commoners and in bad taste," the TMC supremo said in a tweet after Modi's statement in Ghazipur.
"My humble suggestion is not to hit the common people like this," she said.
"This will be a killer for the common people. Already a staggering Rs 1.5 lakh crore of GDP has been lost by the economy in only six days," she said in a statement.
BSP supremo Mayawati, stung by the apparent reference to her in Modi's "garland of notes" remark, unleashed a no- holds-barred attack on the Prime Minister, saying he cannot tolerate that a "dalit ki beti" is presented such a garland.
"He (Modi) has accepted garland of notes many times. But if a 'dalit ki beti' is offered such a garland, it it does not become palatable for the Prime Minister, it reflects his cheap mentality," she said at a hurriedly convened press conference in Lucknow hours after Modi made the remark at a BJP rally in Ghazipur.
"In order to divert people's attention from his failures, Modi levels baseless allegations against his poltical opponents which is condemnable...Allegations on policy matters are different but personal ones should not be made...He cannot tolerate that a dalit ki beti is presented garland of notes," she said, adding one cannot digest what Mayawati wears.
Mayawati said an undeclared "Bharat Bandh" was prevailing in the country where all economic activity has come to a grinding halt due to demonetisation.
"Our party welcomes from the heart any strong action for it (against black money) but the present government in the garb of checking black money and corruption has forced the people to face immense hardships," she said.
Mayawati was offered a garland of currency notes at a party rally in Lucknow when she was the chief minister.
CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury also sought to pick holes in the demonetisation drive, claiming that Prime Minister's stated objectives including those of tackling corruption will not be achieved with the steps taken.
He also claimed that the BJP-led government had gains in UP election in mind while making the move and reiterated his party's charge that BJP leaders had prior information about the decision, referring to the West Bengal BJP depositing crores "a few hours ahead of Modi's November 8 announcement.
"You discontinued Rs 1000 and Rs 500 currency notes. But,
replaced it with that of Rs 2000. Nobody is able to use that note," Yechury said as he flashed a Rs 2000 note he withdrew from an ATM in Parliament premises to tell reporters that he has not been able to spend it over the past five days.
"Also terrorists don't use cash, such funding is done through electronic transfers. The government should rather implement the law which was brought after 2008 terror attack in Mumbai," he suggested.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, one of the most strident critics of Modi, demanded that the measure be rolled back.
"The situation is just the opposite of what the Prime Minister said. The poor are not sleeping. They are spending nights outside banks. Only Modiji's friends are having good sleep. He has made the poor drink poison in the name of strong tea 'kadak chai'," Kejriwal said.
Earlier in the day, while addressing a rally in Ghazipur Modi said, "My decision is a little harsh. When I was young, poor people used to ask for 'kadak' (strong) tea but it spoils the mood of rich."
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, set to face a difficult state assembly election, said the farmers were badly hit by the Modi government's action and asked the Prime Minister to make special arrangements for them in the middle of the cropping season.
"They said the measure (demonetisation) will cause pain, but whose who are giving the pain themselves did not know how much pain it will cause. First they said it will last for a week or ten days, now they are saying 50 days," Akhilesh said.
As Modi battled opposition criticism, BJP ally Shiv Sena too did not pull any punches and termed the demonetisation drive as "demonic and unsystematic" that has led to "financial anarchy" in the country.
"125 crore Indians are standing in queues in scorching heat without food and water. Do you expect them to back you in future? Are you repaying people the blessings they gave you by forcing them to come on streets? This is blatant cheating with them," an editorial in Sena mouthpiece 'Saamana' said.
"The spectacle of weeding out black money is monstrous," it said.
Despite a show of unanimity on the issue of demonetisation, divisions persisted among opposition parties on whether they will join TMC delegation when it meets the President.
"By and large there was a decision that we will work together. In such cases, it is not like will be led by a, b or c or whether we should meet the President at the start of the session, in the middle or the end," Congress leader in the Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad said after the meeting.
Yechury, whose party and TMC are at daggers drawn in West Bengal, said,"The matter has to be first raised in Parliament and then we will take it forward." When asked if the opposition was united on the issue, he said,"It (unity) has to be on the floor of the House. Floor coordination cannot happen anywhere else."
TMC's Derek O'brien, however, said his party will meet the President on the appointed day and at appointed hour in view of the "crisis" situation. "November 16th it is, 1:30 pm it is. I hope others will see the urgency and come back to us," he said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President-elect Donald Trump will be "unparalleled" friends and under their leadership Indo-US trade could reach a whopping trillion dollars a year in less than a decade, said a prominent Indian-American industrialist and Trump supporter.
"I have no doubt that Trump Sarkaar (government) and Modi Sarkaar will be the best friends and the two leaders will be unparalleled friends in the history of world leadership," Republican Hindu Coalition founder Shalabh Kumar said at an event to felicitate him following Trump's election victory.
Kumar expressed confidence that Trump will be president for two terms and the Modi government too will get a second term, giving both leaders at least eight years to work together at the world stage.
Citing strong growth in bilateral economic cooperation, Kumar said he is confident that "under Trump Sarkaar and Modi Sarkaar, India and US trade will reach one trillion dollars per year in the next eight years."
Kumar had last month organised a rally in New Jersey attended by Trump, who had said at the event that he is a "big fan of Hindus" and of India. He described Trump's stunning election win as a "second Diwali."
"There is a lot of commonality between India and the US. Trump will be the best President for India, he will be best friend with India," Kumar said at the event attended by several members of the Indian-American community.
Kumar stressed that areas such as electronic products will propel trade between the two nations to a trillion dollars in the next eight years. He said under a Trump administration, "lot of legislation that poses artificial barriers" to trade will be removed and India and the US will see greater collaboration in areas such as defence, energy and manufacturing as well as combating terrorism.
He also expressed confidence that the Trump administration will enact strong immigration laws which will benefit the hundreds of thousands of Indians legally waiting for their US Green Cards and legal residency permits.
Terming radical Islam as the "camel in the room," Kumar later told PTI that Trump is not afraid to use the words to describe the problem of terrorism confronting the world.
"There is a camel in the room. A lot of people ignore the camel in the room, Trump is not afraid to call it what it is - radical Islam, extremist Islam. Radical Islam has declared a war on the free world. You have to first recognise the enemy, if you do not recognise that camel, that war and pretend that there is no war how can you fight the war," he said.
He stressed that the Trump-Modi relationship "will not be just optics". Optics is "when President Barack Obama celebrates Diwali in the White House but then goes and gives F-16s to Pakistan," he said.
When asked how soon will the two leaders meet, Kumar said a meeting between Modi and Trump will happen "in a timely" order.
"There are a lot of pressing domestic problems that Trump faces and which he will have to address immediately such as repealing and replacing the Obamacare Act, the Iranian nuclear deal and thousands of other legislation brought in by Obama," Kumar said.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A pro-Russian politician has secured a clear win in Moldova's presidential race, final results showed today, an election that many Moldovans hope will rekindle ties with Moscow.
In the full count, Igor Dodon won 52.2 per cent of the vote. Maia Sandu, who ran on an anti-corruption ticket, had 47.8 per cent. Russian President Vladimir Putin invited Dodon to visit Moscow and said he looked forward to developing bilateral relations.
In her first comments after the final results, Sandu said the elections were neither free nor fair and accused opponents of using "dirty methods" including the media and administrative resources, against her.
She called for the resignation of authorities responsible for organising the elections.
International election observers said today "fundamental freedoms (were) respected, but polarised media coverage, harsh rhetoric detracted from the process."
Today, up to 3,000 mostly young Moldovans marched to the offices of the Central Election Committee in Chisinau shouting "Down with the Mafia!"
Anger had also flared yesterday after Moldovans voting in Britain, Ireland, France, Italy and elsewhere lined up for hours and ballot papers ran out. Sandu said the elections had been badly organised.
Dodon's victory was celebrated with fireworks early Monday in the semi-autonomous Gagauzia region, home of many ethnic Russians.
Dodon, leader of the Socialists' Party, announced himself the victor at midnight Sunday and called for calm, vowing to be a president for all Moldovans, regardless of their political views. He said he seeks good relations with the nation's neighbors, Romania and Ukraine.
Putin congratulated Dodon and said the outcome of the elections demonstrates Moldovans want to have a balanced foreign policy."
The statement said the Russian leader is willing to develop bilateral relations within an existing friendship agreement.
Romania's president, Klaus Iohannis, was cooler and more reserved in his remarks, saying the new president should fulfil his mandate "with wisdom and balance," and respect "the constitutional attributes" of the post.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The metropolis has recorded a whopping 289 per cent rise in rape cases in the last five years, according to data compiled by NGO Praja Foundation.
As per figures obtained under Right to Information, 728 rape cases were registered in the financial capital in 2015-16, up from 187 in 2011-12, registering in increase of 289 per cent, Praja said in its annual report on policing and law & order in Mumbai which was released today.
Similarly, 2,145 molestation cases were reported in the city in fiscal 2015-16, a manifold spike from 554 in 2011-12.
Of the 712 rape cases reported across the megapolis in 2015, 448 were against children below the age of 18.
Netai Mehta, Founder and Managing Director of Praja, said, "Within a span of five years, rape cases saw an increase of 289 per cent and molestation 287 per cent. The Government and Police Department should take cognisance of this data and take steps to ensure safety of women and children."
The report said on an average it takes 9.2 months for a chargesheet to be submitted after an FIR is filed in a rape case and 21.3 months for a court verdict.
The Praja annual survey of over 25,000 households found that people's concern for safety of women and children has been increasing over the years.
The number of murder cases has come down by 7 per cent in 2015-16 to 183 as compared to 2014-15 when the figure stood at 170. But riot cases saw an increase of 28 per cent - from 353 in 2014-15 to 452 in 2015-16, the NGO said.
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Union Health Minister J P Nadda today urged the private sector to join hands with the government and be part of a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model in three areas - Prime Minister Dialysis Scheme, Free Diagnostics facilities to rural people and strengthening of National Institute of Pathology.
"The government is committed to take PM Dialysis Yojna to district level for free facility for BPL and 400 centres proposals on the PPP model from states have been approved. The government cannot do it alone and reputable and leading private players like Dr Lal PathLabs need to come together," Nadda said.
"The government will provide full support to private players which have expertise, brand and credibility and can provide quality and affordable facilities to a large number of people," he said.
The Health Minister was inaugurating a Scientific Symposium, organized by Dr Lal PathLabs to mark the 100th Birth Anniversary of its Founder.
During the inaugural session, Lt Gen M K Unni, Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS) and Dr Soumya Swaminathan, DG, ICMR also highlighted the challenges and the way forward for Pathology in India.
They also stressed upon capacity building, new technologies and innovations to reduce laboratory expenses and improving patients care through integration.
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Natural disasters drive at least 26 million people into poverty each year and cause more than USD 500 billion in lost consumption, far exceeding the value of damage to property alone, according to a World Bank report released today.
Those numbers will be driven up in the coming decades as climate change amplifies the destructive power of cyclones, flooding and drought, said the report, released on the margins of high-level UN climate talks in Marrakesh.
Up to now, global calculations of the damage wrought by Nature on communities have not adequately taken into account disparities in wealth, according to the 190-page report, entitled "Unbreakable: Building the resilience of the poor in the face of natural disasters".
The new approach has huge implications for how and where to best spend money to make cities and rural areas more resilient to such shocks.
"One dollar in losses does not mean the same thing to a rich person as a poor person," said lead author Stephane Hallegatte.
"The same loss affects poor and marginalised people far more because their livelihoods depend on few assets, and their consumption is closer to subsistence level."
Today, a government deciding where to install infrastructure to avoid urban flooding would logically favour a wealthy district that suffered USD 20 million of property damage over a poor one where asset losses totalled USD 10 million.
But the calculation changes as soon as the often long-lasting human misery left in the wake of flooding in a slum area is factored in.
Building dikes and drainage systems in the poorer area "would generate lower gains in avoided assets loss, but larger gains in well-being," the report said.
The true cost of natural disasters have been vastly underestimated, it concluded.
A recent UN study of 117 countries, both rich and developing, estimated total global asset losses from natural disasters at USD 327 billion (304 billion euros) a year.
But if lost consumption -- when medicine or schooling for example that was barely within reach before becomes unaffordable -- is included, the bill totals about USD 520 billion annually, the World Bank found.
Based on a global survey of 1.2 million people in 89 nations, the report also showed that 26 million people fall below the income threshold of USD 1.9 (1.75 euros) a day, a widely accepted measure of poverty.
"This is surely a conservative figure," Hallegatte told AFP.
Myanmar's Cyclone Nargis in 2008, which claimed some 140,000 lives, caused some four billion dollars in damage, according to the UN.
But it also forced up to half of the country's poor farmers to sell off land and other assets to relieve debt following the cyclone, pushing them deeper and more irretrievably into hardship -- making the true cost much higher.
The most deadly disasters since the start of the century -- Nargis, the Indian ocean tsunami of 2004, earthquakes in China and Haiti -- have not been caused by extreme weather events.
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Acting on a tip off from the Sri Lankan Navy, an Indian naval patrol team intercepted a fibreglass boat with two armed men and chased them away when they tried to enter Indian territorial waters.
"The team acted on a tip off from the Sri Lankan Navy that the boat with two armed men would try to cross Indian territorial waters," police quoted Coastal Marine Group police and Intelligence Bureau officials as saying.
The incident occurred at Olaikuda area, they said.
There was an exchange of fire between the two but none were injured and the Sri Lankans managed to go back to their territorial waters, they said.
Marine Police and Q branch and also the IB, said they got details from some Indian fishermen who were in the area.
Following the incident, CMG has intensified patrolling.
Police said naval officials had told them that an enquiry was being conducted into the incident.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The personnel of the National Disaster Response Force today saved four persons from drowing in the Ganga here during Kartik Purnima.
Officiating Commandant of 9TH Battalion of NDRF Ravi Kant said in a statement here that a 35-year-old devotee Ramesh Kumar was rescued from deep in the river at Kila ghat in Patna district by constable Sudhir Kumar.
In an another incident, a 14-year-old boy Rajeev Kumar was rescued by constable Kanhee Singh at crowded Chimani Gha, Kant said. Similarly, two sisters were rescued at Gandhi ghat by the NDRF team, the Officiating commandant said.
In an another chilling incident, an alert NDRF personnel traced a four-year-old boy who had gone missing among milling crowd on the bank of the Ganga at Gai ghat in Patna district and handed him over to his mother.
Equipped with deep diving set on inflatable motor boat NDRF personnel patrolled the entire strech of the river in Patna on the occasion of Kartik Purnima.
The Bihta-based NDRF team had also established medical camp at Gandhi ghat for devotees.
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House Speaker Paul Ryan and his wife, Janna, work with a technician as they stand on stage at the Quicken Loans Arena, the site of the Republican National Convention in Cleveland.
By of the
Cleveland After being twisted and torn over Donald Trumps candidacy, Wisconsin Republicans have come to Cleveland searching for unity, something that hasnt been this elusive in quite some time.
We need to unify, said party activist Mary Buestrin, a longtime member of the Republican National Committee. Its a bit disconcerting to me that I have to actually work on people (to back Trump) that should be automatically just doing this.
There may be no better window into the turmoil Trump has caused in his party than the Wisconsin GOP, which was split every which way over the man who will become the Republican standard-bearer at this weeks four-day convention.
The divisions are all the more striking when you consider that this state was a model of Republican solidarity during the pitched warfare over Gov. Scott Walkers tenure, with conservative leaders, conservative media, tea party activists, business groups, social conservatives, party regulars and elected officials achieving a remarkable degree of cohesion while taking and holding power in Wisconsin.
Theres been a little splintering of the Walker coalition, but well get it back together, state GOP chairman Brad Courtney said.
The last five or six years have strengthened the team (and) put us in a situation where we can handle something like this and get through it in a good way and not be fractured and all over the place, Stephan Thompson, a former state party director and political aide to Walker, said of his fellow Republicans.
Its really just mind-boggling, said Mike Tate, who did battle with a GOP juggernaut in Wisconsin when he served as state chairman of the Democratic Party.
We have two of the stronger state parties in the country, said Tate. To watch (Republicans) sort of reel and careen back and forth is in many ways a microcosm what has been happening nationally in the Republican Party which is how do we handle the Donald Trump candidacy?
The party regulars who make up a large part of the Wisconsin delegation have mostly come around for Trump, out of partisan loyalty and a desire to beat Hillary Clinton. In interviews, many praised Trumps choice of running mate Indiana Gov. Mike Pence as politically and philosophically reassuring.
Assembly Majority Speaker Leader Robin Vos, who has withheld his endorsement, said after arriving here that he hopes to get behind Trump in the coming days.
Our base just wants somebody who can win. Donald Trump has to show this week that he can win and I think people will unify, Vos said.
Despite his clashes with Trump during the primaries, Walker will speak Wednesday night at the convention, where he plans to argue that Democrat Hillary Clinton is wholly unfit to be president, he said in an email to supporters.
But prominent Republicans still couch their support for Trump more in terms of partisan obligation and political necessity than affection or enthusiasm for the candidate.
One of the primary political duties with this job is not to dis-unify our party, U.S. House Speaker Paul Ryan told National Public Radio last week when asked about his support for Trump.
There are lot of things that I dont like that Trump has said, and there are a lot of things he could have said in a better way than he did. However ...he won the nomination fair and square, said GOP congressman Jim Sensenbrenner, whose district gave Trump his biggest losing margin of any in the country in the presidential primaries.
Citing his partys past success in Wisconsin, Sensenbrenner said, We run the risk (in this election) of losing everything that we have stood for as a result of disunity over Trump.
Wisconsins role at this convention features several twists. The state swung hard against Trump in its April primary. Yet it will leave its stamp all over the Trump convention, with Ryan and national GOP chairman Reince Priebus presiding and six home-state Republicans speaking: Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke and U.S. Rep. Sean Duffy on Monday; Ryan and U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson on Tuesday; Walker on Wednesday; and Priebus on Thursday.
Wisconsin is the only state Trump lost that was given front-row delegate seating in the convention arena, thanks to its clout in RNC.
And it has played a prominent but conflicting role in the intraparty battles over Trump.
In the run-up to the convention, Wisconsin Republicans Priebus, Buestrin and fellow RNC member Steve King helped squelch efforts by anti-Trump forces to release delegates from their pledges.
But Wisconsin is also home to notable Trump opponents in the party: conservative activist Eric OKeefe, an organizer of the effort to unbind delegates; Never Trump congressman Reid Ribble; and former state party chairman Michael Grebe, who gave up his slot at this convention because I do not want to be part of a process which results in the nomination of Donald Trump.
That one-sentence declaration by Grebe earlier this month stung some Republicans because of his long history in the party as a former counsel to the RNC; the man who ran the 1996 national convention in San Diego; and as a political godfather to Walker and Ryan.
Without naming anyone, Buestrin said she has been shocked that some good, strong party people have continued to withhold their support for Trump.
I cant understand it, because Im a party person. Admittedly, he wasnt my first choice but he is now, she said. And I will work hard to elect him, and thats what they should be doing, too, instead of badmouthing him. I mean, Just keep your mouth shut. Thats the way I feel.
Thiensville village president Van Mobley was one of the few elected officials in the state who backed Trump before the primary.
I think in this case I had better judgment than other people about the strength of his candidacy, said Mobley, who was added to the Wisconsin delegation in Cleveland when someone else dropped out.
He called Trumps double-digit defeat in Wisconsin one of the great mysteries of my life, but said, I see the party coming back together.
GOP voters in the state have begun to coalesce behind Trump, polls suggest.
Back in March, only 36% of Republican voters in Wisconsin viewed Trump favorably, according to a poll by the Marquette Law School. In June, 58% did. And in July, 67% do.
But the partys voters are still less unified behind Trump than Democrats are behind Clinton in Wisconsin and less unified than Republicans were behind nominee Mitt Romney at this stage in 2012.
A quarter of GOP voters in the state still have a negative view of Trump, and 35% remain uncomfortable with him as president.
Ive always believed in politics you cant make the perfect the enemy of the good, said Sensenbrenner.
Asked if that is a persuasive argument to his GOP constituents that voted by large margins against Trump in the primary, Sensenbrenner said: Well see.
Follow Craig Gilbert on Twitter @WisVoter
Graphic: A Trump divide
Chief Minister V Narayanasamy paid floral tributes to the country's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru here, as teh nation celebrated his 127th birth anniversary today.
Narayanasamy, accompanied by ministers and party leaders garlanded the statue of Jawaharlal Nehru at Gandhi thidal here.
Several political leaders and freedom fighters were among those who paid tributes to the portrait of Jawaharlal Nehru.
Meanwhile, as part of the Children's day celebrations, programmes were organised in schools across the Union Territory remembering Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.
Lt Governor Kiran Bedi flagged off a rally by school students at the Jawahar Bal Bhavan.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A fresh proposal for settlement of Ayodhya dispute was submitted to Faizabad divisional commissioner suggesting that a temple and a mosque be built at the site.
The petition, it is claimed, has been signed by about 10,000 members from both Hindu and Muslim communities with former High Court judge Palok Basu leading the initiative.
Divisional Commissioner Surya Prakash Mishra, who is the receiver of the disputed site, said, "I received a memorandum regarding the dispute of Ayodhya and a bunch of photocopies containing some signatures. I have yet to decide what to do in this matter"
Basu said that they were hopeful that the Supreme Court will take note of it.
The petition, which has 10,502 signatures, was submitted yesterday.
"We have moved this negotiation process in the Supreme Court through the authorized person (Faizabad Divisional Commissioner). We hope that the apex court will honour the public sentiments of peace and harmony," he said, adding they have proposed that the disputed site will house both Ram temple and a mosque.
In its September 30, 2010 ruling, the Allahabad High Court had awarded two parts of the site, where the Babri Masjid once stood, to Nirmohi Akhara and 'friend' of Ram Lalla and one part to Muslims, which went to Sunni Central Waqf Board of Uttar Pradesh.
Basu said their "local" effort to resolve the issue started in March 18, 2010
In the past, the main litigant in Babri Masjid case, Hashim Ansari, had along with Akhara Parishad president Mahant Gyan Das discussed out-of-court settlement which broadly talked about the 70-acres of disputed premises accommodating both mosque and temple with a partition wall which will be 100 feet high.
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) had rejected the proposal calling it an insult to the high court.
Ansari died in July this year.
More than 100 kids suffering from life-threatening illnesses saw their wishes being granted at a fun-filled event organised on the occasion of Children's Day today, thanks to the efforts of NGO Make-a-Wish Foundation and tour and travel firm Cox & Kings.
To help bring smiles to the faces of these children who have been undergoing painful treatment and to make them feel special, celebrations were held in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad and Pune.
In Mumbai, the Sion Hospital auditorium came alive with gleaming eyes and sunshine smiles as these children rejoiced dancing, singing, playing games and collecting their granted wishes.
Along with employees of Make A Wish Foundation and Cox & Kings, celebrity kids from the popular comedy TV series "Tarak Mehta Ka Ulta Chashmah" joined them in the celebration.
Karan Anand, Head, Relationships, Cox & Kings, said, "We are committed to help bring positivity and joy into the lives of many children every year. Today, as the nation celebrates Children's Day, this is our effort to reduce the pains and struggles of children with life-threatening illnesses and fill them with happiness and enjoyment to make them feel better."
Different wishes, including bicycles, TV, remote controlled cars, mobiles and laptops, among others, were distributed to children across the nation.
Deepak, Bhatia, CEO, Make-A-Wish Foundation, said the children battling grave diseases had a fun-filled time.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today heard opinion of people from different walks of life on the new liquor law in the state and said a joint sitting of the two houses of the state legislature would be called for a wider debate on prohibition.
"After discussion with you all, a joint sitting of the two houses of the Bihar legislature would be called for a wider discussion on the new liquor law," Kumar said at "Lok Samvad" programme where he heard the opinion of 40 select persons from different walks of life.
"We want more discussion on prohibition which has yielded good result," the CM said.
Deputy Chief Minister Tejaswi Yadav, Excise and Prohibition minister Abdul Jalil Mastan, senior ministers Bijendra Prasad Yadav and Abdul Bari Siddiqui, Chief Secretary Anjani Kumar Singh, state police chief P K Thakur and Principal Secretary of Excise department Amir Subhani were present during the closed-door intercourse.
The 40 select people, including lawyers, journalists, retired police personnel, doctors and professionals expressed their opinion as how to make the new Bihar Excise Act, 2016, which was notified on October 2 last, more effective.
During the discussion, the CM categorically said there would be no compromise with the ban on liquor, spiced and domestic as well as Indian Made Foreign Liquor.
Kumar said he wanted suggestions from people who had described the prohibition law as "draconian and a Talibani law" and alternative against stringent provisions.
Kumar said that more than 16,000 people had been prosecuted under the liquor law, 80 per cent of whom were involved in illicit trade of alcohol.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In a setback to Cyrus Mistry, independent directors of Tata Motors today did not offer unanimous support to his leadership and instead backed all decisions taken by the company, including on small car Nano, which have been criticised by the ousted chairman of Tata Sons.
Unlike the backing he got from independent directors of Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) and Tata Chemicals, the words of unanimous backing to Mistry's leadership during the crucial board meeting of Tata Motors were absent from the statement that the automaker issued after the meeting that lasted over five hours.
The board meeting of Tata Motors assumed significance against the backdrop of escalating feud between Tatas and Mistry as well as Tata Sons' decision to seek ouster of Mistry from key group companies.
Mistry continues to be chairman of several listed companies of Tata Group even after he was removed as chairman of the holding company, Tata Sons. These companies include Tata Motors, Tata Chemicals and IHCL.
In a statement, the country's top automaker said: "The independent directors of Tata Motors met today to consider and review the impact and significance of recent events and media reports relating to the governance, management and business of the company."
The independent directors have confirmed that all decisions taken by the board with regard to the strategy, operations and business of the company have been unanimous and executed by the chairman and the management accordingly, it added.
"The independent directors have further affirmed that the company continues to be governed, supervised and managed under the guidance and direction of the board.
"The management of the company and its subsidiaries have the full confidence and support the independent directors," the statement said.
The statement issued by Tata Motors was in contrast to the ones issued by IHCL and Tata Chemicals which stated that independent directors had supported Mistry unanimously.
Sources said one of the independent directors came with a resolution backing Mistry but after the deliberations the resolution was not carried.
Other independent directors did not approve it suggesting big differences in the board over the support to Mistry.
On November 5, seven independent directors of Indian
Hotels Company (IHCL) had strongly backed Mistry. Tata Chemicals independent directors had also came out in support of Mistry.
Tata Motors has eleven board members, including six independent directors -- Wadia group chief Nusli N Wadia, ex-CSIR Director General Raghunath A Mashelkar, Credit Bank (DCB) Chairman Nasser Munjee, former Eicher Group Chairman Subodh Bhargava, former bureaucrat Vinesh K Jairath and Kotak Investment Bank Managing Director and CEO Falguni S Nayar.
Last week, taking Mistry head on, Tata Sons sought his removal as well as that of the group's friend-turned-foe Nusli N Wadia from the board of three prime listed Tata group companies -- Tata Motors, Tata Chemicals and Tata Steel.
Tata Sons, which holds 26.51 per cent stake in Tata Motors, has asked the manufacturer of Jaguar Land Rover to convene an extra-ordinary general meeting of the company to consider its resolution seeking removal of Mistry and Wadia.
The latest moves are seen as attempts by Ratan Tata, who was brought in as interim head after sudden removal of Mistry, to seize back control of India's largest conglomerate.
(Reopens DEL106)
A source, however, said the fact that Mistry having chaired the meeting points to the fact he received unanimous support from the board members.
Terming outgoing US President Barack Obama as "terrific" who has a "great sense of humour", President-elect has said they did not talk about the bitterness of the recently-concluded election campaign during their meeting but discussed some tough subjects.
"I found him to be terrific. I found him to be very smart and very nice. Great sense of humour, as much as you can have a sense of humour talking about tough subjects, but we were talking about some pretty tough subjects. We were talking about some victories, also. Some things that he feels very good about," Trump told CBS's '60 Minute' programme.
Trump, 70, for the first time met Obama in the Oval Office of the White House on Thursday, a day after he won the general election. The meeting was scheduled for 15 minutes, but went on for 90 minutes.
"This was just going to be a quick little chat and it lasted close to an hour and a half. It could have gone on for four hours. I mean, it was in fact, it was almost hard breaking it up because we had so many things to say. He told me the good things and the bad things," he said, adding that among the bad things is the situation in the Middle East.
"I wanted to get his full view. I got a good part of his view. And I like having that because I'm going to be inheriting that in a short period of time," he said.
Obama, he said, did not ask him not to repeal his signature health care programme.
"He didn't ask me. He told me the merits and the difficulties. And we understand that," he said.
Trump called himself a sober person and said this is how he looked inside the Oval Office.
"I think I'm a sober person. I think the press tries to make you into something a little bit different. In my case, a little bit of a wild man. I'm not. I'm actually not. I'm a very sober person.
"But it was respect for the office. It was respect for the president. I never met him before, but we had a very good chemistry going. It might not be that I agree with him, but I really found the conversation unbelievably interesting," Trump said when asked about his meeting with Obama.
The President-elect added that he never had an awkward moment during the meeting.
"We never discussed what was said about each other. I said terrible things about him. He said terrible things about me. We never ever discussed what we said about each other," he said.
Trump said he does not believe that his victory is a repudiation of Obama's presidency but of "what has been taking place over a longer period of time".
"No, I think it's a moment in time where politicians for a long period of time have let people down. They've let them down on the job front. They've even let them down in terms of the war front. We have been fighting this war for 15 years.
"We've spent $6 trillion in the Middle East. We could have rebuilt our country twice. You look at our roads and our bridges and our tunnels and all of our airports are, like, obsolete," Trump said in response to a question.
In keeping with the trade fair theme, Odisha and Bengal pavilions have highlighted various steps being undertaken for digital connectivity and e-governance in their respective states.
Digital India is the theme of the 36th India International Trade Fair which was inaugurated by President Pranab Mukherjee here today.
Odisha has taken several steps to digitally connect every nook and corner of the state for a swift service delivery mechanism, Odisha Minister for Forest and Environment Bikram Keshari Arukha said while inaugurating the Odisha pavilion.
Highlighting the e-governance, Arukha said, under the digital Odisha campaign our state ensures that the government services are made available to citizen electronically.
As per the Digital India theme, Odisha Pavilion has been designed and decorated to showcase various initiatives of the state government for a service delivery mechanism in various fields.
The role of new technologies like electronics and IT -- especially effective e-governance initiatives, stronger online infrastructure and wider internet connectivity -- in ensuring a better, faster and more transparent public service delivery, and overall improvement in the quality of lives of people, is the highlight of West Bengal pavilion at the trade fair.
Besides, Bengal is also exhibiting state's great artistic and cultural heritage, its superb handicrafts and handloom products, its prowess in power generation, industry, agriculture and tourism, the digital boost in higher and school education sector as well as its present achievements and future opportunities.
Bengal pavilion was inaugurated by School and Higher Education Minister Partha Chatterjee.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Pakistan's Supreme Court today ordered that a special medical board be constituted to assess the current mental condition of a schizophrenic death row prisoner.
Imdad Ali, diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, was sentenced to death in 2001 over a shooting.
Ali has spent 14 years on death row, with three years in solitary confinement in the jail hospital due to his schizophrenia, said Justice Project Pakistan (JPP), a non-profit organisation working to save his life.
JPP said the Advocate General, Punjab and Prosecutor General, Punjab who appeared themselves in court, filed Ali's entire jail medical record since 2001 that was previously unavailable and declares him mentally unfit to be hanged.
The government's counsel mentioned that the state had failed to disclose these records to the courts in the trial and appellate proceedings.
The court said that it cannot look at additional evidence at this point in the proceedings and did not take the records into consideration.
However, it ordered that a 5-member medical board, composed of psychologists and psychiatrists be assembled, and that a list of competent doctors be submitted to the court by all parties by Wednesday.
The court also said Ali's mental condition during his trial is irrelevant as that has achieved finality in the appeal.
The court chose to focus on his current mental state and whether it qualifies him as a person of unsound mind.
It said that his present state of mind will show whether he deserves any leniency under the different international treaties and protocols signed by Pakistan.
The next hearing has been scheduled for November 16.
Earlier, last month the Supreme Court rejected a plea to cancel the hanging saying schizophrenia is not a "permanent" mental disorder.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Pakistani troops today resorted to shelling and firing on Indian posts in four sectors along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu, Rajouri and Poonch districts of Jammu and Kashmir, in which two persons including a jawan were injured.
"There have been unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistani Army in Sunderbani and Naushera sectors of Rajouri district and Pallanwala sector of Jammu district," a defence spokesman said.
Pakistani troops used 82mm mortar bombs and automatic weapons on Indian positions from 1440 hours in these sectors, he said.
A 67-year-old resident, Mangat Ram, was injured in Pakistani shelling in Khour area in Pallanwala sector, Jammu Deputy Commissioner Simrandeep Singh said.
Pakistani troops also resorted firing along LoC in Khadi area of Poonch district, according to reports. One jawan was injured in the firing in Poonch.
The defence spokesman said the Indian troops gave "befitting reply" to Pakistani firing.
The violations of the ceasefire came after a lull of a few days on the border.
On November 12, an army jawan was killed in Pakistani firing in Keran sector of north Kashmir's Kupwara district.
On November 10, another jawan, Satnam Singh, was killed in snipper shots from across the LoC in Machail sector of North Kashmir.
On November 8, two army jawans were killed in firing and shelling along LoC in Naushera sector of Rajouri district.
On November 6, two army jawans were killed and five others -- two soldiers, a BSF officer and two women -- were injured as Pakistani army opened fire in an attempt to facilitate two infiltration bids along the LoC in Krishna Ghati and Poonch sectors of Poonch district.
The worst-ever Pakistani shelling targeting civil population took place on November 1 when eight persons, including two children and four women, were killed and 22 others injured along the IB and the LoC in five sectors of J&K, forcing Indian troops to give befitting reply by destroying 14 Pakistani posts and killing two of their troopers.
The 2003 India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement has virtually become redundant with a whopping 286 incidents of firing and shelling along LoC and IB in Jammu and Kashmir by Pakistani troops that resulted in death of 26 people, including 14 security personnel, since the surgical strike on terrorist launch pads in PoK.
There have been 186 ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops along the over 190km International Border (IB) in Jammu frontier, while 104 violations of the agreement took place along the over 500km Line of Control (LoC).
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Pakistan today said seven of its soldiers were killed in "unprovoked" firing by Indian troops across the LoC, prompting it to summon the Indian envoy here to warn that India's "belligerent" attitude may lead to a "strategic miscalculation".
Seven Pakistani soldiers were killed at the LoC in the Bhimber sector in an alleged ceasefire violation by Indian troops late last night, according to a statement by the army.
Pakistani troops responded to "unprovoked" Indian firing and targeted Indian posts "effectively", it said.
Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry summoned Indian High Commissioner Gautam Bambawale this afternoon and condemned the "unprovoked ceasefire" violation by the Indian forces on the Line of Control (LoC).
The Foreign Secretary deplored the increasing Indian ceasefire violations at the LoC and the Working Boundary, especially in the last two months, a statement said.
He emphasised that this "belligerent attitude" of Indian forces was a "serious threat to the regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation", the statement added.
The Foreign Secretary asked the Indian High Commissioner to convey to his government that it must stop the provocative firing and observe the ceasefire.
Pakistan is pursuing a policy of restraint, which should not be construed as a sign of weakness, the statement quoted him as saying.
He underlined that the Armed Forces of Pakistan do not initiate fire, but will always respond in a befitting manner, if fired upon, the statement said.
It is for the second time in a week that Pakistan has summoned Indian High Commissioner.
Pakistan on November 10 summoned Bambawale to the Foreign Office to protest over alleged ceasefire violations and use of artillery by the Indian forces.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif asserted that his country is "fully capable" of defending its territory against "any aggression".
Sharif expressed grief over the loss of lives in the "latest violation of Line of Control (LoC) by the Indian forces" and said "it is extremely unfortunate that Indian forces have continuously violated ceasefire agreement at the LoC in the recent days", Press Information Department Pakistan said.
"We are fully capable of defending our soil against any aggression," it quoted Sharif as saying.
The Prime Minister also claimed that the Indian forces have resorted to escalating tension on the LoC only to "uselessly divert" the world's attention from the "grave human rights situation" in Kashmir.
Army chief General Raheel Sharif ordered troops to "effectively" respond to firing by India.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Overseas Chinese in the US are being urged to contribute to the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations and play more of a role in the rejuvenation of Chinese nation.
More than 100 representatives from 15 chapters of the Washington-based National Association for Chinese Peaceful Unification and officials from China gathered on Saturday in San Francisco for the organization's annual joint conference. CONGJIANG WANG/ FOR CHINA DAILY
More than 100 representatives from 15 chapters of the Washington-based National Association for Chinese Peaceful Unification (NACPU), as well as officials from China gathered on Saturday in San Francisco for the organization's annual joint conference. Participants discussed the role of overseas Chinese in unifying the motherland and boosting Chinese development.
Since the new leader of Taiwan took office this year, the good relationship that had been maintained between both sides across the Taiwan Straits for eight years has been greatly impeded and the interests of the Taiwan people have been jeopardized, said Ran Wanxiang, vice-president of the China Overseas Friendship Association.
He told the conference that Beijing would adhere to the 1992 Consensus and firmly oppose "Taiwan independence", despite the change in Taiwan's leadership. He also said he expected overseas Chinese to take advantage of their resources to expand communication channels, promote Chinese culture and foster patriotism.
"The 5,000-year-old Chinese culture is the tie connecting all Chinese in the world," said Ran. "Overseas Chinese are expected to carry forward the Chinese culture and tell the Chinese story well."
He said China has realized outstanding economic development and also provides opportunities for the world. "Overseas Chinese are expected to integrate their individual development with serving the nation's great cause of rejuvenation," said Ran.
"As the world's largest two economies, the US and China have far more shared interests than differences. China can contribute to world peace by realizing her own development," he added.
The fate of the overseas Chinese has been closely tied with the motherland and they have been playing an important role in promoting the peaceful unification of the Chinese nation and China's economic development, said Huang Wentao, a communications director with the Taiwan Affairs Office of China's State Council.
"We have never been so close in history to the goal of reunifying the Chinese nation," he said. "The development and progress of the mainland provides the foundation for peaceful cross-Straits unification."
Huang reiterated that Beijing's principles and policies concerning Taiwan are consistent and will not change after the leadership changed.
"Although the road will not be smooth, the Chinese unification is inevitable. We will keep walking on the right road," he told the conference.
Zha Liyou, deputy Chinese consul in San Francisco, also attended the conference. He said the whole Chinese nation, including the people of Taiwan, will benefit from the Chinese unification and rejuvenation, which is the shared goal of the people across the Straits and all the overseas Chinese.
Congjiang Wang contributed to the story.
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By Anthony Mccartney
LOS ANGELES (AP) - With his latest appeal rejected, Roman Polanski's fate once again lies in the hands of Swiss authorities.
A California appeals court on Thursday rejected Polanski's bid to have his case reviewed by a special counsel or to be sentenced in absentia.
The Swiss Justice Ministry had been waiting for the court's ruling before deciding whether to allow the Oscar-winning director to be returned to Los Angeles for sentencing on his 33-year-old sex case.
But a Swiss official said Friday that the ministry wouldn't rush into a decision. If it ultimately approves extradition, Polanski could still lodge court appeals in Switzerland that would delay his return to the United States for months.
Polanski has been under house arrest for months at his chalet in the luxury resort of Gstaad as his attorneys repeatedly sought to win the director's freedom in Los Angeles courtrooms.
They have argued that Polanski shouldn't have to be present to be sentenced on one count of unlawful sexual intercourse. In their latest appeal, they argued that he should be sentenced to time served.
The recent appeal focused on newly obtained testimony from a former prosecutor who felt the original judge handling Polanski's case acted improperly. That testimony remains sealed.
The California 2nd District Court of Appeal dismissed Polanski's appeal without issuing an opinion. They also dismissed a petition by Polanski's victim, Samantha Geimer, to have the case dismissed.
The Swiss will only extradite Polanski to the United States if he faces a sentence longer than six months. U.S. prosecutors say Polanski faces up to two years in prison.
It remains unclear how quickly the Swiss will rule on Polanski's extradition, although Swiss Justice Ministry spokesman Folco Galli has said a decision usually comes within a year of a person's arrest. Polanski was arrested in late September.
"We first have to receive the official information from the United States, and then we will examine it," Galli told The Associated Press on Friday. "We can't make a decision based on media reports. We have to study the ruling."
"We must have some patience," he added.
Galli declined to say in which direction Swiss authorities were leaning on Polanski. "If it was obvious that he couldn't be extradited, we wouldn't have arrested him," he said. "But it remains open."
The director could still seek to end the case in California by appealing to the state Supreme Court. His attorneys declined comment Thursday and have not indicated what their next step will be.
Polanski was accused in 1977 of plying Geimer, then aged 13, with champagne and part of a sedative pill, then raping her at Jack Nicholson's house.
Polanski was indicted on six felony counts, including rape by use of drugs, child molesting and sodomy. He later pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful sexual intercourse.
Authorities are seeking Polanski's extradition from Switzerland so he can be sentenced on the charge. The Academy Award-winning director fled the United States on the eve of sentencing in 1978.
His attorneys have said he fled because the judge handling the case planned to send Polanski back to prison even though he had completed a diagnostic study ordered by the court.
Polanski's attorneys have cited numerous instances of apparent misconduct in the case by the judge, who is now dead. The appeals court and a lower court judge have said there are indications of serious misconduct in how the case was handled, but neither have ordered an evidentiary hearing that could resolve the matter.
Geimer, Polanski's victim, has also been advocating for the "Rosemary's Baby" and "Chinatown" director. Her appeal, which was also rejected Thursday, sought to dismiss the case because of a recent change to California's constitution that gave victims a greater role in criminal cases.
Prosecutors argued that the changes did not hand victims the authority to end prosecutions.
___
AP Special Correspondent Linda Deutsch in Los Angeles and AP writer Bradley S. Klapper in Geneva contributed to this story.
Pakistan today summoned Indian High Commissioner Gautam Bambawale to "deplore" the increasing Indian ceasefire violations at the LoC after the death of seven Pakistani soldiers, warning that India's "belligerent" attitude may lead to a "strategic miscalculation".
Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry summoned the Indian High Commissioner this afternoon and condemned the "unprovoked ceasefire" violation by the Indian forces on the Line of Control (LoC), resulting in the death of 7 Pakistani soldiers in Bhimber area.
The Foreign Secretary deplored the increasing Indian ceasefire violations at the LoC and the Working Boundary, especially in the last two months, a statement said.
He emphasised that this belligerent attitude of Indian occupation forces was a serious threat to the regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation, the statement added.
The Foreign Secretary asked the Indian High Commissioner to convey to his government that it must stop the provocative firing and observe the ceasefire.
Pakistan is pursuing a policy of restraint, which should not be construed as a sign of weakness, the statement quoted him as saying.
He underlined that the Armed Forces of Pakistan do not initiate fire, but will always respond in a befitting manner, if fired upon, the statement said.
It is for the second time in a week that Pakistan has summoned Indian High Commissioner.
Pakistan on November 10 summoned Bambawale to the Foreign Office to protest over alleged ceasefire violations and use of artillery by the Indian forces.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif asserted that his country is "fully capable" of defending its territory against "any aggression".
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The demonetisation issue today figured prominently at the all-party meeting convened by Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan with all major opposition parties, including the Congress, wanting a debate on it in Parliament.
The cross-LoC surgical strikes, policy towards Pakistan, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, besides OROP and the plight of farmers were also among issues that were raised at the meeting with parties demanding discussion on them.
Major opposition parties, during the meeting which lasted over three hours, urged Mahajan to allow a debate on demonetisation on a priority so difficulties faced by the common man could be highlighted.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also attended a dinner hosted by the Speaker after the all-party meeting.
"Leaders of various parties have demanded discussion on demonetisation and the steps taken by the government to exchange the currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000.
"The situation in Jammu and Kashmir, holding of simultaneous elections to state assemblies and Lok Sabha, and state funding of polls also emerged as issues on which parties have demanded discussion," the Speaker said after the meeting.
She said 22 to 23 bills are likely to be introduced in the winter session which will have 22 sittings.
Mahajan also informed the representatives of various parties present that the Lok Sabha has taken a "second step" forward towards making the functioning of the House paperless.
She said while a copy each of big reports, including those of the CAG would be sent to party offices, the members would invidually be sent reports online. Minimum copies of general and rail budgets would be printed. She informed that an e-portal has already been introduced for the purpose where all reports and questions are uploaded.
Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge said his party would give notices for adjournment, short duration discussions and calling attention motion on various issues including demonetisation, surgical strikes and government's policy towards Pakistan.
Among other issues on which Congress has sought discussion include OROP, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and the alleged plight of farmers, besides proposed merger of Railway and Union budgets.
"The poor, salaried class, housewives, small traders and daily-wage earners are the worst sufferers of demonetisation move and their plight would be highlighted by the party," Kharge told reporters.
Leaders of various political parties, including Congress, BJD, Trinamool Congress, SP, SAD, Shiv Sena, LJP, RLSP and BJP were present at the meeting.
The Speaker sought their cooperation in smooth functioning of the House.
Patience of Delhiites wore thin as they continued to face hardship in withdrawing cash braving long queues, accessing health facilities and commuting in public transport, with a bank holiday today adding to their woes.
On the six day since the demonetisation policy came into effect, scores of ATMs across the national capital witnessed serpentine queues as the shortage of currency pinched harder on the common man's purse.
With banks closed in many parts of the country, cash- strapped people started making beeline outside ATMs from early morning but with limited success as most of cash vending machines are running dry.
Scuffle and heated exchanges were reported from ATMs and banks from many parts of the city, as patience of harried citizens wore thinner, who continued to reel under the financial crisis in the wake of demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes.
Commuters also had a harrowing time, as lack of Rs 100 notes continued to cripple transaction with taxi operators, auto-rickshaw drivers and other public transport providers.
A pre-paid city-run taxi counter at Delhi Airport, which other wise draws good number of passengers, today wore a deserted look.
"People are not coming to book 'kali-pili' taxis with us, as they do not have ready cash, and we are not in a position to accept Rs 500 or Rs 1,000 notes," a staff at the counter said.
Drivers of these economy taxis are also feeling the pinch, with their customer base further eroding, as more people are switching to taxi aggregators through online payment mode.
"I used to get at least five passengers earlier, but today, I have not even reached three," said Ramesh, a driver, employed with the pre-paid taxi service.
Auto-rickshaw drivers are also finding it hard to make their ends meet, even as cash withdrawal limit at ATMs has been hiked to Rs 2,500 from Rs 2,000 a day.
"I used to make at least Rs 700 by evening on regular days, but today I couldn't earn even Rs 300," Rajesh, an auto-ricksahaw driver, said.
Many sections of the society including grocery shop owners, small traders, restaurant owners, are further feeling the heat as their dependence on cash is very high.
Long queues were also witnessed at ATMs inside the
premises of Pragati Maidan, where the India International Trade Fair (IITF), began today.
18 ATM kiosks have been set up by different banks this time to alleviate cash shortage faced by visitors, officials said. The mega trade fair is being held here from November 14-27.
Though it was a public holiday today, banks inside the Pragati Maidan premises, were made operational to cope with the the financial crunch.
People in private hospitals also continued to cope with shortage of currency, as new higher denomination notes are hard to come by.
Grocery shop owners, from Azadpur Mandi to Kotla Mubarakpur markets, felt more currency heat, as Rs 100 notes and lower currency ran dry, crippling transactions.
Families which have wedding due in near future, are feeling hamstrung too, as limited withdrawal of money, has put both groom and bride sides on edge.
Small retailers, which were traditionally dependent on cash transactions, are finding it hard to come to grip with online mechanism.
For the urban population, the Finance Ministry today said recalibration of ATMs has already started and they will start dispensing the new Rs 2,000 currency notes from today or tomorrow.
However, it clarified that the higher cash withdrawal limit of Rs 2,500 is only for recalibrated ATMs.
Additionally, a large number of micro-ATMs will be deployed to help people withdraw cash through debit cards.
To mitigate their hardship, the RBI has started distributing new high security Rs 500 notes from yesterday.
A 47-year-old peddler, out on bail, was today arrested for allegedly possessing LSD Dots and Ecstasy (MDMA), both party drugs, worth Rs 1.08 crore in suburban Kandivali, police said.
Acting on a tip-off, police raided a car at Triads Road, Kandivali West and apprehended Kishore Nandan, they said.
"We recovered 1,358 of LSD Dots worth Rs 67.90 lakh and 1,365 MDMA tablets from him," senior police inspector Mukund Pawar of Kandivali Police Station told PTI.
"We have also seized the vehicle owned by Nandan. Police apprehended the accused when he had come to supply the drug consignment to a receiver," said the official.
A probe is underway and all angles are being looked into. A few suspects are being questioned in this regard, Pawar added.
Earlier Nandan was arrested by Thane Police for allegedly possing drugs. He was out on bail in that case, the police official said.
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I-T Department may slap a hefty 200 percent penalty on unexplained high cash deposits in banks even before annual income tax returns are filed so as to prevent black money being converted into white during the 50-day window provided for turning in the junked Rs 500/1000 notes, a Finance Ministry official said.
It is also collating data on spurt in deposits in zero- balance Jan Dhan accounts and will slap a 200 per cent penalty on unexplained high value cash deposits, he said.
After withdrawing old 500 and 1000 rupee notes, the government has allowed the banned notes to be deposited in bank accounts or exchanged for new legal tenders till December 30.
This has led to cash balances popping up in millions of Jan Dhan accounts, opened under a government scheme for beneficiaries to get their entitlements like LPG subsidy.
"Tax Department is collating data on spurt in Jan Dhan accounts. It will analyse all data and impose tax plus a 200 per cent penalty in cases of unexplained high value deposits," the official said.
Under Section 12 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, tax department can ask for any information from any agency including the Reserve Bank of India and cooperative banks besides all scheduled banks.
To prevent misuse of the 50-day window provided for exchange of genuine holdings of the scrapped 500 and 1000 rupee notes, the tax department may resort to imposing tax and penalty even before annual Income Tax Return (ITR) is filed, the official said.
"Any unexplained source of income can be charged with tax and a 200 per cent penalty on it. That can happen before filing of ITR. No retrospective amendment is required if high value deposits are caught before filing ITR," he said.
Finance Ministry has carried out series of advertisements in newspapers assuring people that their hard earned money is safe and depositing junked Rs 500/1,000 notes of up to Rs 2.50 lakh in bank accounts will not be reported to the tax department.
It has also stated that farm income continues to remain tax free and can be easily deposited in bank.
Small businessmen, housewives, artisans, workers can also deposit cash in their accounts without any apprehensions, it has said.
On farm income, the official said the tax department will match the acre of land the person has and the deposits made in the bank account to identify any discrepancy.
Revenue Secretary Hashmukh Adhia had stated last week that the government would be getting reports of all cash deposited during November 10 to December 30, 2016 above a threshold of Rs 2.5 lakh in every account.
The tax department would do matching of this with income returns filed by the depositors. Any mismatch with income declared by the account holder will be treated as a case of tax evasion.
"This would be treated as a case of tax evasion and the tax amount plus a penalty of 200 per cent of the tax payable would be levied as per the Section 270(A) of the Income Tax Act," he had said.
A petition was filed in the Lahore High Court today seeking a directive for the government to extend the tenure of army chief General Raheel Sharif, who is set to retire this month.
Petitioner advocate Ghazi Ilamuddin of Tahreek-i-Inqilab said the whole nation wants Raheel to continue as the head of the army.
"Pakistan has accomplished many tasks against terrorism under his leadership. Therefore, the Nawaz (Sharif) government be directed to give an extension to Gen Sharif in the larger interest of the country," he said.
The lawyer said the army chiefs in Pakistan have been given an extension in the past. The court will later fix the date for hearing the petition.
The three-year term of Chief of Army Staff Gen Raheel is going to expire on November 28.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif recently said the government had not discussed anything regarding an extension to Raheel or appointment of a new army chief.
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Pro-Russian candidate Igor Dodon was on the brink of being declared winner of Moldova's presidential runoff, viewed as an East-West choice in the impoverished ex-Soviet country.
With 97 per cent of ballots counted till late yesterday, Socialist Party chief Dodon had 55.3 per cent of the votes, according to the electoral commission, with pro-European rival Maia Sandu on 44.7 per cent.
"We have won, everyone knows it," Dodon told a late-night press conference.
Official results were due to be announced at 0800 (local time) today.
The vote marks the first time in 16 years that Moldova -- wracked by corruption scandals in recent years -- is electing its leader by national vote instead of having parliament select the head of state.
Wedged between Ukraine and Romania, the tiny nation of 3.5 million people is caught in a political tug-of-war between Russia and the West.
Dodon had come out top in the first round of voting on October 30 with 48 per cent ahead of Sandu, a centre-right former education minister who worked for the World Bank, with 38 per cent.
The two candidates have diametrically opposed visions for Moldova's future.
Dodon -- who served as economy minister under a communist government between 2006 and 2009 -- is calling for deeper ties and boosting trade with Moscow.
Sandu meanwhile urged a path towards Europe, calling for the withdrawal of thousands of Russian troops from the Russian-speaking separatist region of Transdniester, which broke away in the early 1990s after a brief civil war.
Moldova signed a historic EU association agreement in 2014, and half of its exports now go to the bloc.
The move was bitterly opposed by Russia, which responded with an embargo targeting Moldova's crucial agriculture sector.
"I and all my friends voted for Igor Dodon since he promises to restore the strategic partnership with Russia," said Vasilii Blindu, a 70-year-old pensioner in the northern town of Balti.
But Chisinau student Marcel Pruna, 22, said he backed Sandu because she will "carry out reforms in practice, not just in words".
Both candidates criticised the vote as badly organised, highlighting the shortage of ballot papers for overseas voters. More than 4,000 Moldovan and international observers were on hand to monitor the vote.
Turnout was 53.3 per cent, the electoral commission said.
The vote comes as a Moscow-friendly general also claimed victory in ex-communist Bulgaria's presidential election Sunday, prompting Prime Minister Boyko Borisov to announce his resignation as his nominee was dealt a crushing defeat.
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Pro-Russian candidate Igor Dodon today emerged as winner of Moldova's presidential runoff, viewed as an East-West choice in the impoverished ex-Soviet country.
With 99.9 per cent of ballots counted, Socialist Party chief Dodon had 52.3 per cent of the votes, according to the electoral commission, with pro-European rival Maia Sandu on 47.7 per cent.
"We have won, everyone knows it," Dodon told a press conference overnight.
The full results are expected to be announced later this week.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow respected the results of the Moldovan vote and congratulated its winner.
The vote marks the first time in 20 years that Moldova -- wracked by corruption scandals in recent years -- is electing its leader by national vote instead of having parliament select the head of state.
Wedged between Ukraine and Romania, the tiny nation of 3.5 million people is caught in a political tug-of-war between Russia and the West.
Dodon had come out top in the first round of voting on October 30 with 48 per cent ahead of Sandu, a centre-right former education minister who worked for the World Bank, with 38 per cent.
They have diametrically opposed visions for Moldova's future.
Dodon -- who served as economy minister under a communist government between 2006 and 2009 -- has called for deeper ties and boosting trade with Moscow.
Sandu meanwhile had urged a path towards Europe, calling for the withdrawal of thousands of Russian troops from the Russian-speaking separatist region of Transdniester, which broke away in the early 1990s after a brief civil war.
Moldova signed an historic EU association agreement in 2014, and half of its exports now go to the bloc.
The move was bitterly opposed by Russia, which responded with an embargo targeting Moldova's crucial agriculture sector.
"Close ties united us with Moldova before but then the scope of our relations slid," Peskov told journalists Monday.
"But Russia has always been and remains committed to maintaining ties with Moldova."
Both candidates criticised the vote as badly organised, highlighting the shortage of ballot papers for overseas voters. More than 4,000 Moldovan and international observers were on hand to monitor the vote.
Turnout was 53.4 percent, the electoral commission said.
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A 38-year-old property dealer was shot dead while his wife critically injured in southwest Delhi's Bijwasan area when two men barged into their house and started firing indiscriminately.
Prima facie, it appears that the victim Rana was shot dead because of a property dispute, police said, adding that they suspect that the killers were hired to kill him.
Today, around 4.15pm two unidentified youths barged inside Rana's house on the pretext of showing interest in renting a room in his house.
When Rana, who was suffering from paralysis, came out with the help of his wife the duo fought with him and later, they started firing indiscriminately at the couple. The two youths fled from the spot.
After Rana's sister-in-law raised an alarm and gathered people, Rana and his wife Lalita were rushed to AIIMS Trauma centre.
Rana was declared brought dead and his wife's condition is said to be critical. Rana's body has been sent for autopsy.
Police said that Rana had a property dispute regarding his house. Police said that they have zeroed in on the accused and are likely to arrest them soon.
Police is questioning Rana's family members and colleagues to know if he had personal enmity with anyone. CCTV footages from the area are also being scanned to gain clues in the case.
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Punjab University (PU) will honour renowned actor Anupam Kher, his wife and Chandigarh Member Parliament Kirron Kher and a number of other alumni at the PU Alumni Meet on November 26.
The PU alumni, who have excelled in their professions and have made significant contributions to the society in the areas of business, social service, literature, sports, science and social science, art and culture would be honoured on the occasion, said an official statement.
PU Vice Chancellor Arun Kumar Grover said that renowned actor and distinguished PU alumnus Anupam Kher will be the Chief Guest on the occasion.
He along with Member Parliament, Chandigarh and PU alumna Kirron Kher would interact with alumni, faculty, students and staff.
In the backdrop of ongoing Balwant Gargi centenary celebrations, Anupam will converse with Kirron about their evolution as an artist.
Both Anupam and Kirron studied at PU and their conversation about their life trajectory would certainly inspire the students, he added.
The programme will be webcast live, he added.
Grover informed that a pictorial representation of PU in the form of Coffee Table book and Souvenir is also being produced and the same would be released on the inaugural ceremony.
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By Elisabeth Malkin
c.2009 New York Times News Service@
TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras - Rony Gomez will stay home when Hondurans go to the polls on Sunday to elect a new president, five months after the military and Congress ousted the last one.
''I won't vote," he said. "It would be endorsing the coup."
The question is how many Hondurans feel like Gomez, a 40-year-old street vendor and former soldier. Manuel Zelaya, the deposed president, condemns the elections as illegal, and predicts a low turnout that will show that he still enjoys popular support.
But the de facto government that has run the country since the coup last summer argues that the elections - scheduled long before the country's turmoil began - are the only way to end the political crisis and move on. A large turnout would prove that most Hondurans agree.
Many people here, weary of what they refer to as "the situation," and worried as the economy spirals downward, say they do plan to vote.
''That's how the transition starts," said Moises Bados Castellano, 67, a retired accountant and farmer. "We need democracy in this country."
In the final days before the vote, the streets here were calm. Campaigning stopped at the end of last week and there was barely an election poster visible by this weekend. The flags and bunting that usually wrap the city's buildings and cars in the colors of the two leading parties before elections were also absent.
The two leading candidates began running months before Zelaya was ejected and exiled, but their platforms promising to deal with the global recession, the country's stubborn poverty, mounting crime and dysfunctional schools instantly were overshadowed by the coup.
Porfirio Lobo, who lost the last election four years ago to Zelaya, had a double-digit lead in the last polls. Lobo, 61, a wealthy conservative with a long political career, has danced rhetorical circles around the question of Zelaya's future.
''I think it's fundamental to have a dialogue with all the actors," Lobo told foreign reporters on Friday. "I know that at some point I will have to talk to Zelaya." But he refused to say what might happen to the multiple legal charges, including treason, that Zelaya faces.
Lobo's opponent, Elvin Santos, who had been Zelaya's vice president before resigning to run for president, has been a more outspoken supporter of the coup.
As the elections approached, the apparent quiet masked an underlying tension. Over the past week, homemade bombs have exploded here and in San Pedro Sula without any injuries.
''Everything seems fine, but there is a dangerous calm," said Nubia Palma, 58, a lawyer who says she will vote. "There is speculation about a whole pile of things. They could boycott the elections."
At this point, a significant boycott seems to be the last recourse available to Zelaya. He has spent the past two months camped out at the Brazilian Embassy after he sneaked back into the country. The de facto government says it will arrest him when he sets foot outside the building.
Zelaya spends his days on the telephone with advisers and the media. "The elections won't punish the coup," he said in an interview. "They will elect a fraudulent president." He said that he planned to ask for the results to be annulled on the basis of what he expected to be a low turnout.
Along with his wife and two political advisers, there are 18 more people in the embassy, including several reporters and supporters in charge of secretarial work, cleaning and security. In their spare time, they organize chess tournaments, said Carlos Eduardo Reyna, one of the political advisers. Food is allowed in twice a day past the soldiers who are blocking access to the streets around the embassy to keep away supporters.
But the large street protests organized to protest Zelaya's ouster have long since dwindled, as security forces have cracked down harshly, beating and arresting demonstrators. The government has closed pro-Zelaya broadcasters. And human rights groups report constant harassment and threats against Zelaya's supporters. U.S. officials agree that the human rights situation has deteriorated significantly since the coup.
In theory, the world stands with Zelaya and his condemnation of the elections.
Not a single country has recognized the government of Roberto Micheletti, who was named president by the Congress hours after Zelaya was flown out of the country. The United States, the European Union and the multilateral banks have all suspended aid to Honduras, one of the poorest countries in Latin America.
But the United States, which brokered a deal last month that was to end the crisis and legitimize the elections, has said that it approved of the vote going forward. But with the exception of Panama and Costa Rica - whose president had earlier tried to broker an accord - no other countries in the region have publicly said they will join the United States in recognizing the vote.
The European Union has not expressed support for the vote.
Under the deal that the United States worked on and that both Zelaya and Micheletti signed, the Honduran Congress was to vote on Zelaya's restoration. The two sides were also supposed to form a unity government until Zelaya's term expired, as scheduled, at the end of January.
The deal quickly fell apart after Congress delayed its vote - now scheduled for Wednesday - and a unity government was never formed.
U.S. officials continue to press for some version of the deal. They hope that the election could unlock the country's political paralysis.
''The newly elected government will have a vested interest that the Micheletti government did not have to engage with the international community," said Hugo Llorens, the U.S. ambassador here.
But Zelaya seems little inclined to continue negotiations.
''The accord was a plan to make the elections legitimate," he said. "As long as the rule of law isn't restored, there is nothing."
Rahul Gandhi is expected to attend the proceedings in a court in Bhiwandi, near here, on Wednesday in a criminal defamation case filed against him for claiming, at a 2014 election rally, that the RSS had killed Mahatma Gandhi.
The case against the Congress vice president was filed by a local RSS functionary.
Rahul, who is scheduled to arrive in the city tomorrow evening, will proceed to Bhiwandi in neighbouring Thane district the next morning to attend the court proceedings beginning at 10 am, Mumbai Congress chief Sanjay Nirupam said.
"Since our leader is arriving in the city, the party workers will welcome him at the airport," he said.
Addressing a rally in the run-up to the 2014 general elections in the powerloom town on the outskirts of Mumbai, Rahul had claimed, "The RSS people had killed Gandhi."
He had, on September 1, preferred to face the trial as an accused in the defamation case for his remark against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, submitting before the Supreme Court that he stood by "every word" of his statement.
The Congress vice president expressed his readiness to face the trial after the apex court refused to interfere with the criminal proceedings pending against him before the trial court.
Rahul then withdrew the appeal filed by him against the Bombay High Court judgment refusing to quash the defamation case and summons issued to him by the trial court.
The apex court also declined Rahul's plea that he be exempted from personal appearance before the Bhiwandi court which had taken cognizance of the complaint of an RSS functionary by summoning him as an accused in the case.
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A week ahead of the announcement on demonetisation of old Rs 500/1000 notes, the Reserve Bank had directed banks to recalibrate at least 10 per cent or 20,000 ATMs to dispense Rs 100 notes only.
Banks were given 15 days to comply with the directions issued on November 2.
However, before the process could be completed, Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address to nation on the evening of November 8 announced that Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes would seize to be legal tender from midnight.
The notification said that in keeping with the objectives of Clean Note Policy and to ensure that "genuine requirement" of members of public for Rs 100 denomination banknotes are met, the banks should increase dispensation of Rs 100 banknotes through ATMs which are "widely used" for distribution of banknotes for retail use.
"With a view to encourage the banks in that direction, it has been decided to conduct a pilot project wherein 10 per cent of the ATMs in the country will be calibrated to dispense Rs 100 banknotes exclusively.
"You are, therefore, advised to configure/calibrate 10 per cent of your ATMs to facilitate this arrangement," said the RBI's direction to heads of all banks.
There are about 2 lakh ATMs in the country.
It could not be known immediately that how many banks had complied with the directions.
Following demonetisation of the old high denomination notes, there has been rush to exchange the currency at bank branches and post offices.
Long queues have been witnessed outside practically all ATMs in the country.
In its November 2 notification, had also pointed out that a review of steps taken by banks for installing ATMs dispensing lower denomination banknotes was conducted and "found that very few banks had taken initiatives in setting up ATMs dispensing lower denomination notes including Rs 100 denomination banknotes".
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has indicated that recalibration of ATMs for dispensation of new Rs 500 and Rs 2,000 notes may take up to three weeks.
Devotees in large numbers thronged Gurdwaras in Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh today to pay their obeisance to the founder and first guru of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev on his birth anniversary
People, from different faiths, reached gurdwaras to offer early morning prayers on Gurpurab and take part in 'Langars' and 'Shabad Kirtans', besides taking dips in the holy 'Sarovars (ponds)'.
The Golden Temple in Amritsar was decorated and lit up as religious fervour marked Gurpurab celebrations.
In Punjab devotees thronged gurdwaras in major cities of Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Chandigarh, Mohali, Anandpur Sahib, and Bathinda.
The scene was similar in Haryana, as devotees formed beelines at gurdwaras in Kurukshetra, Ambala, Sirsa, Karnal and Yamunanagar.
Meanwhile, more than 2,000 Sikh devotees have gone to Pakistan to observe the birth anniversary Guru Nanak Dev at the Gurdwara Nankana Sahib in Hasanabdal town in Pakistan's Punjab, Shiromani Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee (SGPC) officials said.
The Sikh guru was born at Nankana Sahib near Lahore, now in Pakistan, in 1469 and spent 14 years of his early life at Sultanpur Lodhi in Punjab's Kapurthala district.
Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal extended his warm wishes to the people across the globe on the occasion of Parkash Utsav of Guru Nanak Dev.
In his message, the Chief Minister appealed people to imbibe the spirit of service and humility as preached by the Great Guru and strive hard for carving out a prosperous and egalitarian society by following the his precious legacy.
Meanwhile, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar greeted people on Gurpurab.
The Chief Minister described Guru Nanak Dev as an "apostle of peace and tolerance" whose teachings would continue to inspire generations.
"Guru Nanak Dev strived all his life to promote social justice and equality in the society," Khattar said.
He hoped this occasion would further strengthen amity and secular traditions in Haryana.
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Veteran RSS leader and leading educationalist of Saurashta region Pravin Maniar passed away at a private hospital here, family sources said today.
The end came last night.
Maniar (82), is survived by wife, son and a daughter. He was admitted in a private hospital since last three days and took his last breath there, sources said.
Born on September 1, 1935, Maniar held various key posts in Gujarat RSS, the organisation for which he dedicated over six decades of his life.
He was also involved in various educational institutes including VVP Engineering college and Sarashwati Shishu Mandir.
Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, and Karnataka Governor and former Rajkot MLA, Rajubhai Vala, met his family members and offered condolences.
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Russia's defence ministry said today that a MiG-29K fighter crashed while attempting to land on the Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier in the Mediterranean off Syria, but the pilot survived.
In a statement to Russian agencies, the defence ministry said the fighter jet crashed due to a "technical fault" a few kilometres from the carrier, but the pilot ejected and was recovered and taken aboard the ship.
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Swaraj India today demanded that Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes be allowed to use universally, not just at petrol pumps and in paying public utility bills, till December 31.
Sticking to its support for demonetisation, the fledgling political party led by Yogendra Yadav and Prashant Bhushan said the government was "ill-prepared" in executing the measure.
"Exemption currently granted to petrol pumps and government entities etc. For a few days should be extended to everyone till December 31. Till then, the public should be free to use the old notes for every transaction," it said in a statement.
It said banks and ATMs were wilting under pressure as the government had not printed and transported enough bank notes of the new series and had not planned for non-calibration of ATM machines.
"The experience of the first five days of the implementation of this scheme has confirmed some of the worst fears and calls for an immediate revision in the scheme.
"While the announcement took the ordinary people by surprise, the powerful persons, especially those close to the ruling party, had a fair clue and had made huge deposits in anticipation of this announcement," it added.
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A group of city-based seafarers in association with senior executives of world's leading ship management company Anglo Eastern Group has formed a four- member team to participate in 'Oxfam Trailwalker' race and pledged to donate Rs 5 lakh for education of the girl child.
The event is scheduled to be held at Lonavala, a popular hill station about 125km from here, next month.
The team, christened Proud Mariners, comprises Ranjit Narayanan, Deepak Correa, Sudipto Dasgupta and Vaishak Chavan.
They will walk 100km in 48 hours in support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Beti Bachao-Beti Padhaao' (save girl child, educate girl child) mission.
In a conversation with PTI, the members said the time has come for all of us to support the PM's appeal for uplift and empowerment of girls.
"Therefore, we are ready to complete the ultimate team challenge. This is our chance to make a difference in someone's life and we are proud to be participating in the Oxfam India Trailwalker," the mariners said.
"Walking 100km in 48 hours is a huge challenge and we completed the trail during the 2014 Event. Our motto is 'train together, walk together' and we have formed a great team to raise funds for supporting girls' education," they added.
Oxfam Trailwalker, supported by Oxfam - a globally renowned aid and development charity - is a popular event in India which is aimed at supporting social causes.
Trailwalker is a global phenomena, where a team of four walk 100km in 48 hours with an objective to make a big difference in someone's life. It is mandatory for each team to raise a minimum amount before starting the event and those funds are used by Oxfam India to reduce inequality.
"Our philosophy aligns with Modi's mission. We have pledged to donate Rs 5 lakh towards supporting girls' education through our initiative," they added.
Oxfam, headquartered in the UK, is marking its 66th year in India this year. The charity came to India during the Bihar famine to launch its first full-scale humanitarian response in a developing country. Over the past years, Oxfam has supported civil society organisations across India.
In 2008, all Oxfam activists working in India came together to form the India unit of the organisation.
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As the Modi government came under opposition fire over the demonetisation exercise, its two important allies--Shiv Sena and Akali Dal-- spoke in conflicting voices, with its leaders endorsing the measure at a meeting of NDA parties, but voicing reservations over the manner it was being implemented outside.
The Shiv Sena, the largest NDA constituent after BJP, came down heavily on the Prime Minister in an article published in its mouthpiece 'Saamana' though Shiromani Akali Dal president and Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal was temperate in pointing out the hurdles in the way towards removing black money from the system.
Notwithstanding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's emotional appeal to people to cooperate with him to weed out illegal money, Shiv Sena described the demonetisation as "demonic and unsystematic" which has led to "financial anarchy" in the country.
"125 crore Indians are standing in queues in scorching heat without food and water. Do you expect them to back you in future? Are you repaying people for the blessings they gave you by forcing them to come on streets? This is blatant cheating with them," an editorial in 'Saamana' said.
"The spectacle of weeding out black money is monstrous," it said, adding "instead of striking at Pakistan, PM Modi has struck and wounded Indian citizens and mocked their nationalism by saluting them for bearing with the anarchy."
"Black money is not held by ordinary citizens who are standing in queues but a handful of people who have parked their money in foreign banks before the demonetisation announcement. What action has been taken against them?" it said.
Akali Dal leader Sukhbir Badal, while supporting the demonetisation drive voiced doubt that it will help squeeze out black money from the system in 50 days, and highlighted the hurdles it faced.
"I don't think it is possible. First of all, banking system is not available in each and every corner of the country. In Punjab, yes, after every 5-6 villages there will be a bank. Look at states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha...Maybe there would not be a bank for 100 villages.
"So, for them we have to be practical enough. First of all, we need to raise the limit (of withdrawal). The weekly or monthly expenditure of a person is more than Rs 4000....We have to do it in steps," he told CNN 18.
Badal said for a poor person, a senior citizen or somebody in immediate need of medicine, it was not possible to stand in long, unending queues.
"Maybe for them, there can be a separate system. For example, we have a very strong cooperative bank system in our state. Every village has a cooperative bank. So, I think, they should include cooperative banks also in the system (for dispensing alternative currency notes)," he said.
Notwithstanding reservations voiced in the article in Saamana and Sukhbir Badal, Shiv Sena's leader in the Lok Sabha Anandrao Adsul and SAD's S S Dhindsa endorsed the Modi government's demonetisation exercise at the NDA meeting.
All NDA partners welcomed the move "in one voice" and supported the decision of the government and the Prime Minister to weed out corruption, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar said after the meeting.
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Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia has started a blog where he will pen and share his observations and experiences as Education minister with the people.
In his blog - Education Minister's Notes, Sisodia will also flag the shortcomings of the education sector while seeking people's suggestions to bring improvements as well.
"The main aim behind blog is to share my observations and experience in education sector with people at a single platform. I often visit government schools where I observe several things. I will pen them in my personal blog," Sisodia, who is also the Education minister of Delhi told PTI.
Sisodia said that he wants to bring discourse on education to the main stream so that people talk about improvement of our education system.
"Despite good infrastructure and other facilities in a school, our students are not able to perform good some times. I will write on what's wrong in our approach and what is missing in this sector in the blog," he also said.
After took charge of Education portfolio, there have been several changes in the education sector which include sending teachers for special training, 'Chaunati 2016', swanky government school buildings.
Recently, the Deputy Chief Minister had directed Information and Technology Department to provide training to government's officers on how to use Twitter, Facebook and WhatsApp.
The Department of the Delhi government has been directed to design the training course on social media which the officers will soon undertake.
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Skygazers were heading to high-rise buildings, ancient forts and beaches today to witness the closest "supermoon" to Earth in almost seven decades, hoping for dramatic photos and spectacular surf.
The unusually big and bright Moon will appear at its most impressive just as night falls over Asia, but astronomy enthusiasts will be able to see Earth's satellite loom large anywhere in the world shortly after sunset, weather permitting.
The phenomenon happens when the Moon is full at the same time as, or very near, perigee - its closest point to Earth on an elliptical, monthly orbit. It should appear at its most impressive at 1352 GMT (1922 IST).
It will be the closest to Earth since 1948 at a distance of 356,509 kilometres, creating what NASA described as "an extra-supermoon".
From India to Australia, skygazers and photographers were seeking the best viewing spots in the region where the phenomenon will be visible first, hoping that cloudy skies and the perennial pollution that blights many Asian cities will not spoil the fun.
Thousands of people were expected to head to Sydney's Bronte Beach to witness the event after author Gavin McCormack created a Facebook page to let friends know of his plans.
"Bring a flask of tea... Bring a picnic, bring the kids and bring your binoculars because this is going to be fantastic," he wrote.
Delhi residents were hoping toxic smog shrouding the world's most polluted capital in recent weeks would abate to allow spectacular views as the supsersized moon rises over the Red Fort, the former Mughal emperor's residence.
Picnics were being organised in downtown Hong Kong for residents to watch the supermoon rise over the financial hub's famous skyline, while hikers were heading to the greener, more distant corners of the Chinese city to enjoy views with less light pollution.
The landmark Taipei 101 skyscraper in Taiwan, one of the world's tallest buildings, was set to welcome skygazers, with astronomers predicting it would be one of the biggest moons seen from the island in nearly 100 years.
Special viewing events were being organised by astronomy groups, with members of one in Indonesia's Yogyakarta -- the heart of an ancient sultanate -- taking to the rooftop of their club headquarters to get a glimpse of the supermoon as it rises over the city's historic buildings.
Meanwhile, professional astronomers were at the ready at observatories across the region to explain the phenomenon to curious members of the public.
"We are getting students calling in, there are many who want to come," said Mario Raymundo, head of the Philippine government's main observatory.
The supermoon will also mean a stronger high tide, something that gets surfers giddy with excitement, not only at the prospect of riding bigger waves, but doing so at night.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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By Mohamed Olad Hassan
MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) - Two foreign journalists freed after 15 months in captivity in Somalia arrived in neighboring Kenya Thursday.
Canadian Amanda Lindhout and Australian Nigel Brennan flew out of the Somali capital, Mogadishu, in a chartered plane early Thursday, said Somalia's National Security Minister Mohamed Abdullahi.
In the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, journalists saw a convoy of vehicles, suspected to be carrying Lindhout and Brennan, leave Wilson Airport at high speed. Some of the vehicles had diplomatic license plates.
Journalists were not able to talk to the pair but a police officer confirmed that Lindhout and Brennan had arrived in Nairobi. The officer spoke on condition of anonymity because he is not authorized to speak to the media.
Before leaving Mogadishu, Lindhout and Brennan met with Somalia's Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke, who said the journalists had been held in a part of Mogadishu controlled by Islamic insurgents.
"As you were suffering in a part of the capital controlled by the insurgents, we were worried about you in our part of the capital," Sharmarke said in remarks aired on the state-owned Radio Mogadishu. "We could do nothing but negotiate. Your safety was important."
At that meeting Lindhout was wearing a brown head-to-toe abaya and Brennan had grown a long beard.
Journalists waiting at Mogadishu airport were not able to speak to Lindhout and Brennan before they left because the pair were in a convoy of vehicles full of government soldiers and African Union peacekeepers.
Lindhout and Brennan were released on Wednesday. Police spokesman Col. Abdullahi Hassan Barise declined to say if a ransom was paid for their release.
A police officer and a lawmaker said late Wednesday that a $700,000 ransom was paid for the two journalists' release. They spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to speak to the media on the issue. It was not possible to independently verify their claim.
In Australia, Queensland state Premier Anna Bligh said on Thursday that Brennan "has revealed that he had been pistol whipped and locked in chains for the past 10 months after a failed escape attempt. I'm sure that all Queenslanders would join me in offering our heartfelt goodwill to Mr. Brennan and his entire family."
Kellie Brennan, Nigel's sister-in-law, told reporters: "It's very hard to express the overwhelming sense of joy that we have today."
Lindhout and Brennan were kidnapped in August 2008. A Somali journalist who was captured with them was freed in January this year.
Paris-based Reporters Without Borders has said Lindhout and Brennan are freelance journalists.
Journalists and humanitarian workers are frequently abducted for ransoms in Somalia, one of the world's poorest and most war torn countries. Foreign and local workers generally travel in convoys heavily guarded by freelance militiamen.
Somalia has been mired in anarchy and chaos since 1991 when warlords overthrew longtime dictator Mohamed Siad Barre.
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Associated Press writer Tom Odula in Nairobi, Kenya contributed to this report.
Union Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Rajiv Pratap Rudy today unveiled Star Badge for certified security personnel in the private security sector (PSS).
For the first time, private security guards in the country had been recognised with Star Badge, highlighting their trained and certified status, by the Security Sector Skill Development Council (SSSDC).
In his address at the Security Skills and Leadership Summit 2016 here, Rudy expressed hope that Star Badge embedded with SSSDC logo and barcode will give private security forces professional confidence and special status as well.
"The first and foremost task of the private security sector is to establish dignity of its security guards. That is possible through the process of smart grooming and training. It is very important for the security industry to focus on product presentation and quality services. This will take the industry into the next orbit of growth," he said.
The two-day annual security conference is organised by SSSDC in association with the Central Association of Private Security Industry (CAPSI), focused on 'Kaushal Rashak -Surakshit Bharat' (Skilled Guards - Secured India), as part of its national drive to transform the private security sector from an unorganised industry to an organised one and to secure India.
Rudy urged the PSS to set up quality training centres and centres of excellence across the country and make the eco-system more aspirational for the youth and security guards, according to a release by CAPSI, the apex body for security professionals.
Kunwar Vikram Singh, Chairman, SSSDC, said wearing star badge will not only make the badge holder trust his inner strength and stand out but also others to trust his competence and skills.
This recognition by SSSDC will also increase their salary to Rs 15,000 from the current Rs 8,000-10,000, as per the guidelines of the Labour Ministry.
He said SSSDC will honour 20 lakh security guards with star badge across the country and it aims to certify the remaining 50 lakh security services personnel with required training and grooming in the next few years.
The Rs 40,000-crore domestic security services are expected to be doubled and generate 50 lakh jobs by 2020, the release said.
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Left-hander Sudip Chatterjee battled hamstring problems to score a gutsy century as Bengal posted a decent first innings score of 337 against Tamil Nadu in a Ranji Trophy group A encounter, here today.
At stumps, Tamil Nadu were 60 for 1 having lost opener MS Washington Sundar (4), bowled by Ashoke Dinda.
Bengal started the day at 190 for 3 and left-hander Agniv Pan (59) was bowled by Thangarasu Natarajan with the second new ball in the fifth over of the day.
Chetterjee, who had hobbled out yesterday on a personal score of 34 after suffering from a pulled hamstring, walked in at Agniv's departure.
He played cautiously in company of Shreevats Goswami (35) as the duo added 44 runs for the fifth wicket.
Goswami hit six boundaries before an angle delivery from Krishnamoorthy Vignesh saw him edge one to Narayan Jagadeesan behind the stumps.
Chatterjee continued calmly hitting the occasional boundaries and also taking the singles. He hit nine boundaries in all as he reached his 7th first-class hundred in 249 deliveries.
He found a valuable partner in Ashok Dinda (21), with whom he added 42 runs as the duo took the score past 300 runs. Pragyan Ojha (14) also contributed a bit with the bat which all added to the final score.
The 25-year-old Chatterjee has been one of Bengal's most consistent batsman in recent times.
He had surpassed half-century mark in all of Bengal's previous three games with scores of 73 (vs UP), 51 (vs Punjab) and 85 (vs Railways) but the three-mark was eluding him this season.
Having been in the 'A' team radar for some time, Chatterjee played a timely knock.
For Tamil Nadu, Vignesh was the most successful bowler with 4/70 in 32 overs while left-arm spinner R Aushik Srinivas had 3/67 in 36 overs.
When Tamil Nadu batted, skipper Abhinav Mukund was caution personified as he scored only 19 off 74 balls which had four boundaries. Mukund played a lot of dot balls -- 67 in all as he was more intent on either dead batting or leaving deliveries outside the off-stump.
One drop Kaushik Gandhi was a bit more attacking reaching 25 off 50 balls with three boundaries as the duo added 55 runs in 20.1 overs for the unbroken second wicket stand.
Brief Scores: Bengal 1st Innings 337 (Sudip Chatterjee 100, Agniv Pan 59, Manoj Tiwary 56, Krishnamoorthy Vignesh 4/70).
Tamil Nadu 1st Innings: 60/1 (Abhinav Mukund 19 batting, Kaushik Gandhi 25 batting, Ashok Dinda 1/21).
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A local court has restrained agitating students of Punjabi University from protesting or raising slogans outside the Vice Chancellor's Office.
The orders have been pasted at a vantage point outside the office of the VC and students have been requested to abide by the court orders and lift their dharna immediately.
The students have mainly been demanding keeping open girls' hostels 24 hours.
The court passed these orders on November 11 on a petition filed by the university after hearing the counsel for the varsity and from perusal of the documents on record mainly against the leaders of the Democratic Welfare Organisation (DSO).
The plea demanded permanent injunction restraining the defendants, members of their unions, their leaders and workers from holding demonstration, meetings, damaging or closing gates, doors of any department/branch of the university, deans and heads of department and obstructing the entry of various offices and residences beyond a radius of 300 metres from the outer boundary wall of the university.
Meanwhile, resignations of Amaritpal Kaur (Additional Dean Students for girls), Ravneet Kaur (Additional Provost for girls) and Jaspal Kaur (senior warden) submitted by them in protest against using foul language by some of the students against them, have not been accepted by the authorities.
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Friendship between India and Israel is at work "day in, day out" and is not a relationship "we should be hiding", said Israeli President as he pledged full support to India in fighting terrorism.
Rivlin arrived on Monday on an eight-day visit to India, the first by any Israeli President in nearly two decades.
In a wide ranging interview to PTI, the Israeli President acknowledged differences with India on the Palestinian issue but spoke warmly about the growing Indo- Israeli ties as the two countries prepare to celebrate 25 years of establishment of full diplomatic ties between them next year.
Pledging full support to India in fighting terrorism, Rivlin said that his country was proud to "stand with India in its defence of the values of democracy".
"Terror is terror is terror, whoever carries it out and whoever are its victims. And we all have the duty to condemn in our words, and fight with our deeds against this terrible evil," asserted the President, whose country is one of the biggest suppliers of defence equipment to India and is cooperating with it in a major way in dealing with terrorism.
Answering a question on "murmurs" in Israel that India keeps under wraps their relationship because of close ties with the Arab world and domestic political considerations, Rivlin said, "Israel is proud of our friendship with India and I believe that India is proud of its friendship with Israel.
"Again, this is not just a friendship of leaders and governments. It is a friendship between people in all walks of life, in all fields of study, in all areas of trade. This is not a friendship we should be hiding. This is a friendship that we see at work day in, day out, at the very forefront of building a better world for Israelis, for Indians, and for all peoples," he said.
In reply to a question on India's continued support for an independent Palestine with east Jerusalem as its capital, Rivlin said, "Friends may not always see eye to eye on everything, and as friends we can agree to disagree with respect and understanding.
"Israel understands and indeed shares India's desire to see a just and lasting solution to the conflict between us and the Palestinians. But no solution that may ever be found has a chance of success lest we work now to build confidence between peoples," the President said, and asserted that Israel and Palestine need to work towards "direct negotiations".
Rivlin, who is accompanied by a strong delegation of businessmen, will hold comprehensive talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow on key bilateral and regional issues.
On the long-pending FTA, negotiations for which were launched nearly five years ago between India and Israel, Rivlin said it is a "tool" that can have huge impact and boost the partnership.
Swedish officials today questioned WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, who has been holed up in the Ecuadorean embassy in London for over four years, over sexual assault charges.
The 45-year-old Australian national has been living in the embassy for more than four years after he was granted political asylum by Ecuador amid fears he will be extradited to the US and questioned over the release of 500,000 secret military files on the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq by his controversial website.
Ecuadorean foreign minister Guillaume Long said, "This is something that Ecuador has been inviting the Swedish prosecutors to do ever since we granted asylum to Mr Assange in 2012.
"There was no need for the Swedish authorities to delay for over 1,000 days before agreeing to carry out this interview, given that the Swedish authorities regularly question people in Britain and received permission to do so on more than 40 occasions in recent years," he said.
After years of stalemate, representatives from the Swedish prosecutor's office and Swedish police officers agreed to be present while Assange is questioned by an Ecuadorian official based on a previously approved set of questions.
A DNA sample will also be taken from Assange if he gives his consent.
The results of the interview will be transcribed and reported from Ecuador to the Swedish prosecutors in a written statement.
After this report, the prosecutors will take a view on the continuation of the investigation.
Swedish chief prosecutor Ingrid Isgren was photographed entering the embassy but it was made clear that she would not be giving any press interviews during her stay in London.
Astatement on behalf of the Swedish prosecutors said: "As the investigation is ongoing, it is subject to confidentiality. This confidentiality also applies according to Ecuadorean legislation for the investigative measures conducted at the embassy. Therefore, the prosecutors cannot provide information concerning details of the investigation after the interview".
Today's interview at the embassy follows a long-drawn legal and diplomatic wrangle between Ecuador and Sweden before prosecutors consented to interview Assange in London, and then until the two sides agreed arrangements.
Assange denies Sweden's allegation of rape dating back over six years.
The Swedes will be allowed to ask for clarification of Assange's responses during the questioning, but not put any fresh questions.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Switzerland will return to Egypt an ancient stela stolen from a temple dedicated to the goddess Isis, Geneva's public prosecutor said today.
The stone slab bearing a relief design was stolen 30 years ago from the Iseion temple at the Behbeit El Hagar archeological site in Lower Egypt.
"During an inventory control in the Geneva free economic zone at the end of 2014, the federal customs identified... A granite engraving of unknown origin and alerted Geneva police, who opened a criminal case," the public prosecutor said.
Egyptologist Philippe Collombert from the University of Geneva examined the artefact and it was traced to the Isis temple near the towns of Sebennytos and Mansoura in the Nile delta, the statement said.
Investigators compared photographs taken by French archeologist Christine Favard Meeks at the site in the 1970s to more recent ones which "established without any doubt that the granite engraving was stolen from" Behbeit El Hagar.
The tablet will shortly be handed over to Egyptian authorities.
The Iseion was one of the major centres of the Isis cult in antiquity, comparable to those in the temple complexes at Philae and Abydos in Upper Egypt.
Isis was venerated as the goddess of health, marriage and wisdom. She was the consort of Osiris, the Egyptian god of death and the underworld.
Egypt has been campaigning to have many precious artefacts housed in European museums that it considers stolen to be returned, such as the Nefertiti Bust in Berlin.
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Director General of Police K Rajendra Kumar today reviewed the security scenario in Kashmir saying synergy among law enforcing agencies is must to ensure safety and security of the people.
"The maintenance of law and order is also imperative to prevail congenial atmosphere in the State," Kumar said.
He was addressing a meeting of senior police, para-military and intelligence officers at Police Control Room (PCR) here convened to take stock of security, law and order situation in the Valley.
Stressing for greater coordination among different law enforcing agencies, the DGP said rule of law is our prime concern and JKP along with other security agencies have done a commendable job in maintaining law and order in the State during hostile situations.
He said the success achieved on anti-militancy front and in maintaining law and order was due to the people's cooperation with the forces.
Calling on the officers for strengthening intelligence grid, the DGP said while dealing with the situations, the cops have to take special care of the human rights and every effort should be taken to avoid collateral damages.
"Better policing and the people's cooperation are mandatory to achieve desired results and police should make all out efforts to get the wholehearted support of the people of the State," Kumar said.
Emphasising upon the officers to adopt an effective strategy to mount pressure on the elements inimical to peace, the DGP said while conducting operations, it should be our endeavour that common people are not put to inconvenience.
He said that input sharing among different agencies is necessary to foil sinister designs of bad elements.
Special DGP (Coordination, Law and Order) S P Vaid also addressed the meeting saying a comprehensive security plan has been chalked out for deployment of manpower to ensure law and order in the Valley.
Earlier, IGP Kashmir Zone, S J M Gillani also briefed the meeting about security, law and order situation in the Valley.
He informed about successful operations conducted by the forces in the recent days.
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As long queues were seen at bank branches and ATMs across Karnataka to withdraw money and exchange demonetised Rs 1000 and Rs 500 notes, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah today wrote to Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, requesting him to take effective steps to mitigate hardships faced by the public.
The Chief Minister also made some suggestions to the Union government, based on the ground inputs he has received from the officials and banks.
"There has been much inconvenience to the common public, both for exchanging the old notes and also for withdrawing cash from banks and ATMs. This is primarily on account of the fact that the banking system does not appear to have been geared up for this mammoth task given to them," he said.
Suggesting that sufficient and practical measures could have been put in place in advance, he said "I hope that the Central Government and Reserve Bank of India will take immediate and effective steps to mitigate these hardships taking into account the suggestions."
Siddaramaiah today took stock of the prevailing situation in the state in the wake of demonetisation by meeting senior finance department and Bank officials here.
Stating that in his view the new Rs 500 notes should have been introduced first before Rs 2,000 notes, he requested Jaitley to introduce new series of Rs 500 notes immediately to give relief to the common man.
He also suggested that the time limit for use of old currency for the exempted categories of payments be extended till December 30 as this period is anyway available for them for the exchange of old currency.
Pointing out that medical services are in a nature of an emergency service, irrespective of them being in the government or private sector,the Chief Minister said there were instances of patients being denied treatment in private hospitals due to lack of availability of cash with them.
"I suggest that private hospitals, diagnostic labs and blood banks may also be included in the exempted list. If that is not found feasible, then Banks may be directed to set up a priority counter designated for payment to these institutions using old currency based on the authentication based on admission/discharge documents & bills," he added.
Siddaramaiah's other suggestions to the Finance Minister included increase the cash supply to the cooperative banking sector as per their requirement, enhanced withdrawal limits for registered traders and commission agents of the markets to enable them to pay small and marginal farmers in time.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Four-months after Bangladesh's worst terror attack on an upscale cafe here in the capital's diplomatic enclave, authorities have returned the eatery where 22 people, including an Indian girl, were killed during a bloody siege by Islamist militants.
Police handed over the Holey Artisan Bakery to the owner of the plot, Samira Ahmed, yesterday, following a court order, DMP Deputy Commissioner Masudur Rahman said.
Samira's husband along with his friends had started the Holey Artisan Bakery in 2014, bdnews24.Com reported.
The cafe in Dhaka's diplomatic district was popular with foreigners because of its food, lakeside view and sprawling grass-lawn.
The cafe was attacked by a group of militants on July 1, who took around 30 people, mostly foreigners, hostage in the cafe.
The militants killed 20 hostages, including 17 foreigners, before the army stormed the cafe early next morning, and killed five militants to free the remaining hostages.
Indian girl Tarishi, 18, who was among the hostages was also killed by the attackers.
Two police officers were also killed in the operation.
The police took control of the cafe to preserve the evidence in the aftermath of the attack.
Later, questions were raised over the illegal commercial use of the property.
Housing and Public Works Minister Mosharraf Hossain had warned that the owner of the cafe would have to face action for opening it illegally.
However, the owner later moved to the court for taking control of the plot and the court issued the order in her favour.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Union Tourism Ministry's Incredible India pavilion at India International Trade Fair (IITF) aims to nurture the tourism potential of lesser known destinations which are located close to popular places, a top official said today.
The Tourism Ministry is participating in the IITF after a long gap, an official release said.
Inaugurating the stand at IITF, which began here today, Tourism Secretary Vinod Zutshi said, "The stand has been designed with an idea of promoting lesser known destinations."
The attractions of the pavilion are two 'selfie' points with the Taj Mahal and the Valley of Flowers as backgrounds, the release said.
Domestic tourism continues to be an important contributor to the tourism sector. There is also "encouraging sign" for the inbound tourism, it said.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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By Ali Akbar Dareini
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) - A conservative Iranian legislator warned Saturday that his country may pull out of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty after a U.N. resolution censuring Tehran - a move that could seriously undermine world attempts to prevent Iran from developing atomic weapons.
Iran's official news agency quoted a hardline political analyst who made the same point, another indication the idea could be gaining steam.
If Iran withdraws from the treaty, its nuclear program would no longer be subject to oversight by the U.N. nuclear agency. That in turn would be a significant blow to efforts to ensure that no enriched uranium is diverted from use as fuel to warhead development.
The lawmaker's threat came a day after the board of the U.N.'s International Atomic Energy Agency passed a resolution demanding Tehran immediately stop building its newly revealed nuclear facility near the holy city of Qom and freeze uranium enrichment.
"The parliament, in its first reaction to this illegal and politically-motivated resolution, can consider the issue of withdrawing from the NPT," Mohammad Karamirad was quoted as saying by the official IRNA news agency, referring to the treaty. "The parliament ... (also) can block the entry of IAEA inspectors to the country."
Karamirad, a senior lawmaker and member of the Iranian parliament's national security committee, does not speak for the government but his statements often reflect the government's thinking. His threat could be a tactic to warn the West of possible consequences if it pursues further action against Iran, such as strengthened sanctions.
Another hardline lawmaker, Hossein Ebrahimi, was quoted by IRNA as saying that Iran's parliament will discuss the IAEA resolution on Sunday and will make a decision on how to react.
Iran's parliament has issued similar warnings in the past, most recently in 2006 when some lawmakers threatened to pull the country out of the nonproliferation treaty during another time of increased U.N. pressure over Tehran's nuclear program. Iran backed down, and the government has said that it has no intention of withdrawing from the treaty, which aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology.
Iran's government insists its nuclear program is meant only for peaceful purposes, though the U.S. and other Western nations suspect Tehran is seeking to acquire atomic weapons.
Ali Asghar Soltanieh, Iran's chief delegate to the U.N. nuclear agency, was also defiant Saturday in the face of the agency's fresh demands, saying on state television that Iran will limit its cooperation with the U.N. watchdog to its treaty obligations and will not cooperate beyond that.
"Our first reaction to this resolution is that they (the U.N. agency) should not expect us to do what we did several times in the past few months when we cooperated beyond our obligations to remove ambiguities," Soltanieh said.
He added that the country's nuclear activities will not be interrupted by resolutions from the U.N. nuclear agency's board, the U.N. Security Council or even the threat of military strikes against the facilities.
Ali Shirzadian, spokesman of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, said his agency his ready to proceed with its nuclear projects.
"Technically speaking, we are fully prepared to produce fuel required for the Tehran reactor. To begin this, we are waiting for the order from top authorities," Shirzadian told the government-run Borna news agency.
Friday's resolution - and the resulting vote of the IAEA's 35-nation decision-making board - were significant on several counts.
The resolution was approved by 25 members of the 35-nation board - including the U.S., Russia, China, Britain, France and Germany - marking a rare measure of unity from the six world powers on Iran.
Moscow and Beijing have traditionally cautioned against efforts to punish Iran for its defiance over its nuclear program, either preventing new Security Council sanctions or watering down their potency.
The IAEA resolution criticized Iran for defying a U.N. Security Council ban on uranium enrichment - the source of both nuclear fuel and the fissile core of warheads.
It also censured Iran for secretly building a uranium enrichment facility, known as Fordo, and demanded that it immediately suspend further construction.
The resolution noted that IAEA chief Mohamed ElBaradei cannot confirm that Tehran's nuclear program is exclusively geared toward peaceful uses, and expressed "serious concern" that Iranian stonewalling of an IAEA probe means "the possibility of military dimensions to Iran's nuclear program" cannot be excluded.
The Iranian news agency also quoted hardline political analyst Mahdi Mohammadi as saying that the U.N. agency's resolution was forcing Iran to reconsider its membership in the nonproliferation treaty.
"The attitude of the agency is gradually bringing Iran and the rest of the developing nations to the conclusion that membership in NPT has no benefit but damage and restriction. In this case, the question that will be raised seriously is will continuation of this path serve Iran's national interests?" IRNA quoted him as saying.
Worried over immediate impact of demonetisation, trade and industry bodies have come out with a host of suggestions, including payment of advance salaries in new currency notes and hiring of retired bank officials to deal with the prevailing cash crunch.
In a representation submitted to Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, PHD Chamber of Commerce suggested payment or part payment of salaries in advance in cash to government, and public and private sector employees with new Rs 500 notes.
"This suggestion would avoid overflowing queues and hardship being faced by most of the citizens and would also avoid loss of productivity due to employee absenteeism in organisations," the chamber said.
Industry body Assocham suggested that banks should hire retired employees on a massive scale for a speedy currency swap and cash withdrawal in the wake of junking of big denomination currency notes.
"Just like general elections when staff across different departments is mobilised; different types of staff can be used for helping the over-stretched banks, grappling with the huge task of dealing with the demonetised currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 and dispensing the new notes," it said in an appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Traders body CAIT said that post demonetisation trade across the country has reduced to 25 per cent in comparison to normal days.
It called upon Jaitley for "remedial" measures to intensify adoption of electronic payments beside ensuring smooth flow of currency both t the hands of traders and consumers.
Sapan Gupta, Partner, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas and Co said demonetisation of old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes is no doubt a visionary move but its impact is directly proportionate to the manner in which the transition is executed.
"The government will need to ensure the necessary infrastructure is put in place at the earliest possible to really achieve its targets," he said.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The India International Trade Fair (IITF) will not be impacted by the demonetisation scheme as more bank counters will be opened at the fair along with facility for digital transactions, Law and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said today.
"There will be no impact (of demonetisation on trade fair). Commerce Minister has directed that more bank counters should be opened. It will be done soon," Prasad said after inaugurating Digital India pavilion at IITF.
Government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has come to bring change in the country, he said.
"Now cashless transactions are being made. India is going to become a big hub of e-payments. Country is bearing week-long problem with ease. Problem is for those who indulge in vote bank politics. Under the leadership of Narendra Modi the country is changing and we will bring the change with honesty," Prasad said.
He also questioned political parties which are protesting against the demonetisation scheme.
"Why is the Congress party worried from the strict action against black money? Why are Mulayam Singh (Yadav) and Mayawati worried? Leave aside everyone, communists are worried. It would have been better if they would have come together in support of Narendra Modi's attack on black money," the minister said.
He said that government formed SIT, brought amendments in law, gave opportunity to deposit money and now attacked black money.
Talking about 'Digital India' drive, he said that with this initiative of Prime Minister the role of Digital India has widened.
"Now Prime Minister has said that all payments should be transparent. With this, the role of Digital India has increased. In all fields we are strengthening Digital India," Prasad said.
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With their cash drying up and vehicles stranded at highways post the demonetisation of old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, a truckers body today asked the government to facilitate online fund transfers for payments at state borders.
In a letter to Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, Hydraulic Trailers Owners Association (HTOA) has also asked the government to increase their daily cash withdrawal limit from current account to Rs 5 lakh from current Rs 50,000 per account.
"Our trailers are over-sized vehicles and the taxes which we have to pay at various states depend on their size and dimensions. The state transport authorities are not accepting the old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes. We should be allowed to make online fund transfer or through cheques or demand drafts," HTOA chairman Bharat Gandhi said.
HTOA has 70 members across the country with each member having a fleet of 5-6 trailers.
He said a trailer has to pay around Rs 40,000 as tolls, state entry fee for every single transport of goods.
Gandhi said since the authorities are not accepting old notes, trailers are stranded which is resulting in to a business loss of Rs 100-125 crore for fleet owners as well as for the clients for whom they are transporting goods.
HTOA has also requested to make all tolls free till December 31, 2016.
The government today said no toll would be charged on national highways till the midnight of November 18. It has extended the earlier deadline by four days.
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Germany's ruling coalition backed Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier as the country's next president Monday, paving the way for an outspoken critic of Donald Trump to become head of state.
Party leaders have been wrangling for months over whom to nominate as a successor to President Joachim Gauck, a 76-year-old pastor from the ex-communist East Germany who is stepping down due to his advanced age.
Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservative bloc agreed on Germany's most popular politician, Steinmeier, whose name had been put forward by his Social Democratic Party (SPD).
Merkel, who was unable to put forward a viable conservative candidate, called the choice of Steinmeier a "sensible decision" that would stand for "stability, particularly in these uncertain times", during a conference call with party leaders, participants said.
SPD leader Sigmar Gabriel, who is also Germany's vice-chancellor and economy minister, told reporters Steinmeier was the right candidate "to uphold the good traditions of statesmanship that Germany has maintained since World War II".
The new president -- a figure who is meant to transcend party politics and serve as a moral standard bearer for the nation -- will be elected on February 12 by a special assembly of MPs, delegates from the 16 federal states, and other notables.
Steinmeier, 60, has emerged in recent months as the German government's most strident detractor of US president-elect Donald Trump.
He warned a day after Trump's shock election that transatlantic relations would become "more difficult".
"I think we must expect that American foreign policy will become less predictable for us and we must expect that the United States will be more inclined to make decisions on its own," he said.
During the US campaign, Steinmeier was even more damning, saying the prospect of a Trump presidency was a "frightening" prospect for the world.
He compared Trump to a "hate preacher", saying he had much in common with "fearmongers" in Germany's right-wing populist AfD party as well as advocates of Britain's exit from the EU.
A veteran of the German political scene and a familiar face in world capitals, Steinmeier served as Merkel's vice-chancellor and chief diplomat during her first "grand coalition" government from 2005 to 2009.
In his second stint as foreign minister beginning in 2013, he has at times drawn fire for attempting to keep the lines of communications open with Russia despite deteriorating relations over Ukraine.
While his Social Democrats have praised his approach as in keeping with their long tradition of Ostpolitik, critics have accused him of being a "Russlandversteher" -- a "Russia apologist".
He raised eyebrows in many capitals in June when he warned NATO against "sabre-rattling and warmongering" after it conducted military exercises in eastern Europe in response to the perceived threat posed by Russia.
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Donald Trump's victory in presidential polls may deter or restrict international students coming to the US for higher education and threaten the estimated USD 35 billion it adds to the American economy, experts have warned.
After a caustic presidential campaign and Trump's vows to limit immigration, build a Mexican border wall and force Muslims to register, experts in higher education sector are bracing for a backlash among students who see the US as a less welcoming destination.
Surveys of international students conducted during the presidential campaign suggested that many would be less interested in coming to the US if Trump were to become president.
For example, a survey of 40,000 students from 118 countries conducted by the international student recruiting companies FPP EDU Media and Instead found that 60 per cent said they'd be less inclined to come to the US if Trump were to win, compared with just 3.8 per cent who said they'd be less inclined if his opponent Hillary Clinton won.
The number of international students at US colleges and universities has hit a record high, but experts suggest that Trump's election may slow the growth of this market and threaten the estimated USD 35 billion it adds annually to the American economy.
For the first time, the number of international students at US universities exceeded a million last year, according to new figures from the Institute of International Education.
The total of about 1,044,000 was up 7 per cent from 2014-15.
China and India remained the top two sources of international students, but Saudi Arabia-bolstered by a government-funded scholarship programme-passed South Korea to pull into third on the list.
"I think America is going to continue to welcome international students, international students are going to continue to want to come here, we will continue to want to send American students abroad as students and cultural ambassadors. I think that international educational exchange is part of the fabric of many societies, including ours," said Allan E Goodman, the president and CEO of the Institute for International Education.
The Seattle-based marketing company Study in the USA also surveyed 1,000 prospective international students on the election.
Of 975 responses, 639 said they'd be more likely to study in the US if Clinton were to win, while just 91 said they'd be more likely to come if Trump were elected.
"Due to Trump's very explicit racist remarks, I would not feel very comfortable studying in the USA," one respondent said.
If the rise of post-Brexit anti-foreigner attacks in Great Britain is any indication, the experts say, Trump's presidency-and its possible policy implications-could lead international students to look elsewhere for their educations.
Germany, Japan, Taiwan and Canada, meanwhile, have all increased international recruiting.
(REOEPNS FGN 21)
A survey of international students earlier this year revealed serious concerns about a Trump presidency.
The March poll of 40,000 students in 118 countries by two international student recruiting firms found 60 per cent of respondents were less likely to attend US universities if Trump were elected, compared to 3.8 per cent who felt that way about Hillary Clinton.
The election results may hinder international student recruiting, said Benjamin Waxman, CEO of Intead, which conducted the survey with FPP Edu Media.
"It seems as though there could be the beginnings of a sea change here," he said.
"The results of Brexit and the US election definitely put a message out there."
In Mexico, about 80 per cent of survey respondents said they would be less likely to attend US universities during a Trump presidency. The country sent nearly 17,000 students to the US last year.
The two companies plan to complete another survey soon to see how the election is influencing college choices, Waxman said.
The US business of educating people from abroad is also facing other challenges, including the economic slump in China and a building spree in India, which is establishing 278 new universities that might keep some of its students at home who previously might have come to the US.
A drop-off in US international enrollment, which has increased 85 per cent in the past decade as universities aggressively recruit abroad, could have significant financial repercussions.
International students pumped USD 35 billion into the country's economy in 2015, according to the US Department of Commerce.
Much of the money from full-tuition-paying international students serves as an important subsidy for American undergraduates.
Some public universities, including Arizona, Ohio, Michigan and Pennsylvania State, Purdue and the University of Wisconsin, have even added a surcharge to the price for international students to make up for budget cuts.
Still, others offered a more optimistic message.
It's worth noting that Trump himself once posted on Twitter about the benefit of retaining international students in the US, writing in an August 2015 tweet, "When foreigners attend our great colleges and want to stay in the US, they should not be thrown out of our country."
"One of the core values of international education is about celebrating diversity and learning from differences," said Rahul Choudaha, the co-founder of InterEdge.Org, an international student services company.
"Trump's viewpoints are insular and not in line with the values of international education. It is likely that the future policies will start looking inward and slow down international education exchanges and student mobility. Career advancement is one of the prime motivations for international students to study in the US," Choudaha added.
"Trump's anti-immigrant stance may create stricter visa and immigration policies that may make it even more difficult for students to come to the US and find internship and job opportunities," he said.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will visit Pakistan this week to enhance ties in various fields, the government said here today.
The Foreign Office said Erdogan will visit the country on November 16-17 at the invitation of his Pakistan counterpart Mamnoon Hussain.
"While the Turkish President has been to Pakistan on a number of occasions, this would be his first bilateral visit to Pakistan since assuming office," it said.
Erdogan will be accompanied by a high-level entourage, including ministers and senior officials, as well as a large business delegation.
Besides meeting with Hussain, Erdogan would be holding talks with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and is also scheduled to address a joint session of Parliament.
The exchange of views between the two leaders would cover the entire range of bilateral matters, as well as regional and international issues. Erdogan will also travel to Lahore.
The Foreign Office said that Pakistan and Turkey are bound by an exemplary relationship characterised by warmth, cordiality and mutual trust.
"Frequent exchanges at the leadership and ministerial levels and growing cooperation in diverse fields are the hallmarks of the unique bonds between Pakistan and Turkey," it said.
It said the leadership of both countries is committed to transforming this historic relationship into a strong strategic partnership, in line with the realities of the 21st century.
It said bilateral relations between Pakistan and Turkey have witnessed tremendous growth and dynamism in recent years.
Both sides are working to give powerful thrust to bilateral trade, investment and commercial cooperation as part of the efforts to build a robust economic partnership.
Both countries closely collaborate with and mutually support each other at regional and international forums.
The Foreign Office said that Turkey has steadfastly supported the people of "Jammu and Kashmir in their just struggle for the right to self-determination in accordance with the relevant UN resolutions".
Turkey plays a vital and active role as a member of the OIC Contact Group on Jammu and Kashmir, it said adding Erdogan's visit would contribute substantially to further solidifying the relationship between the two countries.
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Turkish warplanes on today struck Islamic State positions in and near the northern Syrian town of al-Bab while Ankara-backed Syrian opposition fighters inched closer to the town, one of the extremist group's largest remaining strongholds in the country, Turkish state media and Syrian activists said.
The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an activist group that tracks Syria's civil war, now in its sixth year, said the airstrikes and the shelling killed three people and wounded 30 others.
The stepped-up campaign by Turkey comes after Ankara first sent ground forces into northern Syria during the summer, vowing to clear the border area both of the Islamic State group and the US-backed Syrian Kurdish forces, which it views as an extension of the Kurdish insurgency in Turkey.
Since then, Turkish troops and opposition fighters allied with them have captured wide areas along the border with Turkey, cutting IS fighters off in their self-declared caliphate from the rest of the world. They have also captured dozens of towns and villages in northern Syria.
Turkey's Anadolu agency reported 15 airstrikes against IS in al-Bab today, saying they destroyed two command centers, an arms depot and two buildings used as headquarters, as well as 10 defensive positions.
Also, the Aleppo Media Center, an activist collective, said Turkey-backed opposition fighters captured three villages today northwest of al-Bab and another village northeast of the town.
The Observatory confirmed that four villages near al-Bab were taken, adding that the Turkey-backed fighters have captured 29 villages in the al-Bab area over the past week.
The push has helped Turkish troops and opposition fighters inch closer to al-Bab, where a long battle with the Islamic State group is expected to take place soon. IS has been in the town for more than two years.
Also today, Syrian government warplanes struck the last functioning hospital in the town of Atareb in northern Syria, wounding some staff members and knocking it out of service, according to the Observatory and the Local Coordination Committees, another activist group.
The Russian military, meanwhile, accused militants in Syria of having used chemical weapons against Syrian government troops in the city of Aleppo.
Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj Gen Igor Konashenkov said about 30 Syrian soldiers from the elite Republican Guards were poisoned in the attack, which he said occurred in the eastern neighborhoods of Aleppo late yesterday.
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At least 12 workers were injured when fire broke out at a chemical manufacturing factory in Boisar industrial estate in Palghar district today, police said.
The blaze started in afternoon and soon spread to at least four nearby units in the area.
It was brought under control after six hours by four fire engines.
Prima facie, short circuit in the computer server room of the chemical manufacturing unit was the cause behind the incident, police said.
Police said the injured workers sustained burns as chemical spilled on them in the mishap.
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A powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake killed two people and caused "utter devastation" in New Zealand today, with wild weather hampering rescue efforts as darkness fell.
The tremor, one of the most powerful ever recorded in the quake-prone South Pacific nation, hit just after midnight near the South Island seaside tourist town of Kaikoura.
It triggered a tsunami alert that sent thousands of coastal residents fleeing for higher ground across much of the country.
Kaikoura, a town of about 2,000 people popular with international backpackers, was completely isolated, with telecommunications down and huge landslides cutting all access roads.
Civil Defence Minister Gerry Brownlee said rescuers had to travel in by helicopter to slowly build up a clear picture of the damage.
"I think had there been serious injury or suspected further loss of life, then we would have heard about it by now," he told Radio New Zealand.
He added: "It looks as though it's the infrastructure that's the biggest problem, although I don't want to take away from the suffering... And terrible fright so many people have had."
Brownlee and Prime Minister John Key flew over the affected area in a military helicopter.
"It's just utter devastation... Months of (repair) work," Key remarked as he surveyed the landslips that dumped hundreds of tonnes of rocky debris on the main highway.
Aerial footage outside Kaikoura showed railway tracks ripped up and tossed 10 metres by the force of the quake, while locals posted pictures of themselves near huge fissures that opened up in roads.
One person was believed to have died at a historic homestead that collapsed at the town, while police were trying to reach the scene of a fatality at a remote property north of Christchurch.
As hundreds of people prepared to spend the night in evacuation centres, rescue workers were facing deteriorating weather conditions.
Heavy rain increased the risk of more landslides and strong winds made clean-up work hazardous.
The treacherous conditions temporarily blocked the Clarence River with debris, which then shifted to release a "wall of water" downstream and force more evacuations.
The earthquake struck at 12:02am today (local time) and was 23 kilometres deep, the US Geological Survey said.
It was felt across most of the country, causing severe shaking in the capital Wellington, about 250 kilometres away.
The quake ignited painful memories for residents in nearby Christchurch, which was devastated five years ago by a 6.3 tremor that killed 185 people.
Key said he was well aware its impact could have been much worse.
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An Indian-origin Sikh, who became UK's first-ever ethnic minority judge and the first to sit on the English Bench wearing a turban instead of a horse-hair wig, has died.
He was 86.
Mota Singh was found unconscious last Friday and was taken to hospital but did not recover, the metro.Co.Uk reported.
Paying tribute to him, his wife, Swaran Kaur, said, "He was a wonderful person who achieved so much in his life. He was so hard working."
He was the first person from a minority ethnic group and first Judge to sit on the English Bench wearing a turban instead of a horse-hair wig.
Singh, a Ramgarhia Sikh, born in 1930 in Nairobi, Kenya, Mota Singh was only sixteen when his father, Sardar Dalip Singh, passed away.
He was forced to leave school in order to look after his family, which included his widowed mother, who was only 32 at the time, and his five younger siblings.
Singh's school teachers, knowing that he was gifted, convinced his family that he should complete his matriculation.
While looking after his family during the day, the judge pursued his Bar studies at night and in 1953, came to England to complete the second part of his studies.
He joined the English bar in 1967 and was appointed to the bench in 1982.
In 2010, Mota Singh received a knighthood from the Queen, the highest civilian honour for his services to the administration of justice and community relations.
Tributes have been pouring in on Twitter, with entrepreneur Rami Ranger calling him a "great ambassador for the Sikh and Indian community".
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By Khaled El-Deeb
TRIPOLI, Libya (AP) - A Libyan court convicted on Tuesday two Swiss businessmen of violating residency and labor laws and sentenced them to 16 months in jail with a $1,500 fine, a Libyan official said.
The two were detained in July 2008 on alleged visa violations - days after Swiss police arrested Hannibal Gadhafi and his wife for allegedly beating up their servants in a Geneva luxury hotel. The sentence comes amid furor in the Muslim world over a referendum to outlaw the construction of minarets in mosques in Switzerland.
The official said the two were tried by a court in Tripoli. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the press.
No foreign diplomats or reporteres were allowed at the trial.
The businessmen - identified as Max Goeldi and Rachid Hamdani - were handed over to the Swiss embassy in Tripoli earlier in November, triggering expectations they would be released and allowed to return home.
The Swiss Foreign Ministry confirmed sentences and said the men were tried in absention and still in the embassy.
Earlier, the Libyan official said the two were present at the one day trial and were taken immediately to a prison to serve their terms. The discrepancy could not be immediately explained.
The official said the men have the right to appeal.
Hannibal Gadhafi was held for two days in Geneva before being allowed to return home. The complaint was eventually dropped after the two servants received compensation from an undisclosed source.
Switzerland apologized for the manner of the arrest and opened itself to possible compensation claims as part of the August agreement reached in Tripoli, but later suspended the deal after repeated attempts to secure the release of Goeldi and Hamdani failed.
Libya has called on Switzerland not to make any links between the case and the issue of the "aggression" on the son of the Libyan leader.
The saga has badly damaged relations between the two countries and prompted calls in Switzerland for the resignation of Swiss President Hans-Rudolf Merz, who staked his credibility on the men's release.
In addition to detaining the men, Libya recalled some of its diplomats from Switzerland, suspended visas for Swiss citizens, withdrew funds from Swiss banks, stopped crude oil shipments and reduced flights to the Alpine country.
Tuesday's speedy trial come two days after 57.5 percent of the Swiss population approved the ban on the minarets. Although The Swiss government opposed the initiative, the move has sparked an outcry across the Muslim world.
The UN Committee Against Torture should visit Sri Lanka and conduct an independent investigation into the continued abductions, torture and sexual violence committed by the security forces, a former member of the UN special panel has said.
Indian-origin Yasmin Sooka is a member of a former UN special panel on Sri Lanka's war with the LTTE. She heads the International Truth and Justice Project (ITJP).
Her call has come ahead of the UNCAT's meeting in Geneva this week to examine torture in Sri Lanka.
"Torture and abduction are sosystematic and entrenched in the DNA of the security forces that even a realignment ofpolitical parties in parliament and the new government under President Sirisena are not able to stop these crimes.
"It requires political will and a commitment on the part of the Government of Sri Lanka to carry out a comprehensive security sector reform programme which is sadly missing in Sri Lanka,"Sooka said in a statement.
She was one of three in the panel appointed by the former UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to advise him on the alleged war crimes in Sri Lanka during the last phase of the war with the LTTE which ended in 2009.
Her International Truth and Justice Project (ITJP) has collected testimony from 36 Tamil victims in three European countries, who have suffered abduction, illegal detention, torture or sexual violence at the hands of intelligence and security officers under the present Sri Lanka government.
"In 10 of these cases the victims have already been granted asylum, meaning their cases have already been found credible by foreign governments," she said.
"Overall ITJP has more than two hundred statements from Sri Lankan victims of alleged war crimes and post-war torture and sexual violence who have fled the country. The orgnisation has also begun to identify some alleged perpetrators, Sooka said.
"I want the outside world to know that torture is still happening in Sri Lanka and the torture that I suffered," said a young Tamil woman abducted in a "white van" and gangraped this year in illegal detention in the north of Sri Lanka.
"The international community, including the UN is under an obligation to ensure that the Government of Sri Lanka honours its commitments made in the Human Rights Council in regard to the transitional justice programme in Sri Lanka.
"Overlooking the ongoing violations is not doing either the Government of Sri Lanka a favour or the victims, whose suffering should not be swept under the carpet just because of political expediency," Sooka added.
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With the indefinite economic blockade imposed by United Naga Council (UNC) on two National Highways of Manipur entering 14th day today, prices of essential items have skyrocketed in the capital city.
Over 1,000 loaded trucks are stranded alongside Mao gate on the Nagaland side and Jiribam respectively as Imphal-bound trucks are unable to head for the capital due to the economic blockade, a high-ranking police officer said.
Price of petrol in black market has risen to Rs 250 per litre in Imphal and Rs 300 a litre in the hill districts of Churachandpur and Chandel, officials said.
To cope with the crisis, hundreds of trucks and fuel tankers, escorted by security personnel, have headed for Jiribam sub-division from neighbouring Silchar in Assam to bring essential commodities, the officer said.
Meanwhile, Irom Sharmila's newly-floated political party People's Resurgence and Judicial Assurance (PRJA) appealed to the UNC to lift the ban on humanitarian ground.
PRJA Convenor Erendro condemned the blockade as it affected common people irrespective of ethnic groups and said it revealed the inefficiency of the Okram Ibobi-led Congress government in the state.
The UNC has been agitating against the government decision to create Sadar Hills and Jiribam into full fledged districts, claiming it would bifurcate ancestral lands of Nagas in Manipur.
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Trade unions will raise the issue of minimum wage of Rs 21,000 per month for workers as well as a minimum pension of Rs 3,000 a month with Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in the pre-budget consultations this week.
Finance Minister will meet with the unions on November 19 for the consultations, Trade Union Co-ordination Centre (TUCC) said today.
The unions will raise the issue of fixation of minimum wages for all the workers across India at Rs 21,000 per month and fixation of monthly pension to the EPFO subscribers at Rs 3,000 per month, TUCC General Secretary S P Tiwari said.
Besides, he added, other issues to be take up at the meeting include budgetary allocation for social security fund for 45.7 crore informal sector workers and withdrawal of foreign direct investment (FDI) from core areas like defence, railways, banking and space.
Mandatory linkage of the international migrant workers to PBBY (Pravasi Bhartiya Bima Yojna) before their departure through the sending agency and revoking the new pension scheme as well as re-introducing the old pension scheme for the central government and PSU employees will also be raised, he said.
"TUCC also welcomes the move of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discontinue the old currency of Rs 500 and 1000, which will stop the black money circulation in the economy and stop terror financing too," Tiwari said.
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As a surge of students from China begins to level off, many US colleges are expanding recruiting efforts in the Middle East, South Asia and Latin America in part to boost budgets that have come to rely on tuition dollars from international students.
The number of Chinese students at US colleges rose from 62,000 a decade ago to 328,000 last year, and they still make up 31 per cent of all international students in the US, but growth is slowing.
Today, the Institute of International Education released federal data showing that the number of Chinese students at US colleges grew by 8 per cent last year, the smallest uptick since 2005.
Some schools are bracing for a decline, citing China's sluggish economy and sharper competition from colleges in Australia and other countries.
"For a variety of factors, we're seeing a slowdown in Chinese enrollment," said Todd Maurer, a California analyst who advises schools and education companies on trends in Asia. "I think we're seeing the last years of double-digit growth."
Colleges seek international students partly to boost campus diversity, but they also bring a financial perk. Most schools don't offer scholarships for international students, and charge them full tuition costs. Losing foreign students could hurt college budgets, especially at a time when some public universities are struggling with long-term drops in state funding.
Stephen Dunnett, vice provost for international education at the University at Buffalo, said many colleges worry they depend too heavily on revenue from Chinese students.
"They would be severely hurt if there was a contraction," he said. "There's no Plan B. There's no other country that would send students in those numbers."
Buffalo is among many universities that have expanded global recruiting efforts in part to hedge against a possible decline from China. Along with continued work in China, Dunnett's office has turned its attention to growing countries such as Vietnam and Burma. Next year, the college plans to recruit in Iran for the first time.
This year, the University of Massachusetts Amherst made its first recruiting trip to Mexico and also bolstered its work in Singapore and Vietnam. Instead of sending recruiters to China this year, Bucknell University in Pennsylvania focused on India and sent admissions officials to South America for the first time in about a decade.
Other schools are exploring whether there could be a boom from sub-Saharan Africa. Nations such as Uganda, Ethiopia and Angola have growing youth populations and middle classes, two of the factors that US colleges look for, but some say the region's governments don't offer enough funding to help students study abroad.
Other countries where US schools see recruiting promise include Cuba, Nigeria and India, which sent 165,000 students to the United States last year, a 25 per cent jump in a year. According to the new data from Blumenthal's group, students from Nepal and Vietnam are also among the fastest-growing groups coming to the US.
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A veteran history teacher in the US has been suspended for comparing President-elect Donald Trump to Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler during a post-election lesson.
Frank Navarro, 65, a history and special education teacher at Mountain View High School, Bay Area, California, was asked to leave during school hours after the administration received an email from a parent concerned about statements he made in the class.
Navarro, who has taught at the school for 40 years and is an expert on the Holocaust, said school officials declined to read him the email and also declined his request to review the lesson plan with him.
Mountain View/Los Altos High School District Superintendent Jeff Harding confirmed the incident which took place last Thursday but declined to describe the parent's complaints, The Mercury reported.
"This feels like we're trying to squash free speech," Navarro was quoted as saying.
"Everything I talk about is factually based. They can go and check it out. It's not propaganda or bias if it's based on hard facts," he said.
Though Navarro said school officials, who had put him on paid leave, originally told him to return on Wednesday, Harding said he could return earlier.
"I had a short lesson paralleling Hitler with Trump when Hitler was running from 1930 to 1933," Navarro told the New York Daily .
"Hitler said he would make Germany great again, and Trump said he would make America great again," Navarro said.
He also noted that both leaders vowed to deport foreigners.
Tensions have run high throughout the Bay Area after Trump's victory, with many protesting in the streets and hundreds of students staging walkouts.
The Oracle, Mountain View High's independent student newspaper, said some of Navarro's students alleged his lessons were one-sided and that Navarro said things about Trump that his supporters would find offensive. Other students defended Navarro.
A change.Org petition calling for his return had garnered more than 1,200 signatures.
Navarro, who is Mexican-American and was raised in Oakland, said he is concerned for many of his students during this political climate.
"I've had Mexican kids come and say, 'Hey, Mr. Navarro, I might be deported,'" he said.
"Is it better to see bigotry and say nothing? That's what the principal was telling me (during our conversation). In my silence, I would be substantiating the bigotry.
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The vehicle parking at Dabolim airport in Goahas been made free of charge from tonight in the wake of currency-crunch in the country.
"In view of the demonetisation of currency and crisis of smaller denominations of currency, Airport Authority of India as per the guidelines of government has decided not to charge any car parking fee for seven days, starting from today midnight," airport director BCH Negi told PTI.
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US president-elect has said he has not given a thought yet on appointing a special prosecutor against his bitter campaign rival Hillary Clinton and instead wants to focus on major issues like jobs, health and immigration along with border security.
"I feel that I want to focus on jobs, I want to focus on healthcare, I want to focus on the border and immigration and doing a really great immigration bill. We want to have a great immigration bill. I want to focus on all of these other things that we've been talking about," Trump told CBS '60 Minute' programme that was aired yesterday.
Trump said he wants to "get the country straightened away" instead of thinking about appointing special prosecutors against Clinton.
"I don't want to hurt them. I don't want to hurt them. They're, they're good people. I don't want to hurt them. And I will give you a very, very good and definitive answer the next time we do 60 Minutes together," he said when reminded about his campaign rhetoric.
Trump said he discussed several priority issues with the House Speaker Paul Ryan during their meeting at the Capitol Hill on Thursday.
"I would say there was more than one thing, there were three things, it was healthcare, there was immigration and there was a major tax bill lowering taxes in this country. We're going to substantially simplify and lower the taxes," he said in response to a question.
Trump said he has made decisions about Cabinet positions, but refused to divulge any names.
World leaders calling him after his election, he said, reflects America's power.
"You know the amazing thing to show you the incredible nature of our country. First of all, every major leader... Has called me, I've spoken to many of them and I'll call the rest of them, but and I said, "Boy, this really shows you how powerful our country is."
"France and UK and I mean everybody, all over Asia - and very, just to congratulate. But it really shows the power of our country," he said.
Responding to a question, he said he has not made up his mind if he would ask for the resignation of the FBI Director James Comey for his decisions related to the investigations against Clinton.
"I think that I would rather not comment on that yet. I don't -- I haven't made up my mind. I respect him a lot. I respect the FBI a lot.
"I would certainly like to talk to him. And see him. This is a tough time for him. I would like to talk to him before I'd answer a question like that," Trump said when asked if he would seek the resignation of the FBI Director.
"I'd wanna see, you know, he may have had very good reasons for doing what he did," he said.
Trump reiterated he would defeat ISIS but refused to give any details. "All I can tell you is we're going to get rid of ISIS.
Laying emphasis on promoting the Bhojpuri language worldwide, Mauritius Prime Minister Anerood Jugnauth today said here efforts were being made by his country to confer the language a heritage status.
"Mauritius will soon send a proposal to UNESCO urging it to include Bhojpuri language in the heritage list so that due respect could be given to our Bhojpuri language," he said.
Asserting that a lot of workwas already going on in Mauritius to promote the language, the Prime Minister said, "The Bhojpuri language was even being taught to students in our schools with an aim of promoting it."
Jugnauth and his wife Sarojni today visited the Bhaisasur Ghat in the city on the eve ofDev Deepawali.
On a question that terrorism was being spread in the name of religion, he said it was not right to link religion with terrorism because "religion is purely associated with leading a peaceful life".
He also paid floral tributes to themartyred Indian soldiershere at the ghat.
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Chinese President Xi Jinping has conferred a posthumous honorary title on a pilot of a fighter jet meant for China's first aircraft carrier, who was killed during a training.
President Xi, who is also chairman of the Central Military Commission, signed an order to confer a posthumous honorary title on Zhang Chao, who died on April 27 while flying a J-15 carrier-based aircraft in a carrier-landing simulation.
He was given the title "Pioneer in Building a Strong Army."
Zhang, who had participated in several dozen marine patrols, joined the team of carrier-based aircraft pilots in March 2015.
The whole army and armed police forces were asked to learn from Zhang's virtues such as self-discipline and being bold enough to sacrifice everything for the Party and the people.
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A septic tank level monitor, a 'shoe' to easily sow seeds and a device to check cleanliness of utensils -- these are among the thousands of innovative ideas from children to solve a vast range of issues confronted daily by many people in the country.
Indu Manikpuri from Naxal-hit Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh is among the awardees of the 2016 A P J Abdul Kalam IGNITE Awards by the National Innovation Foundation (NIF) who were honoured by President Pranab Mukherjee recently.
Indu, who lost her father in a Naxal attack, came up with an idea of a septic tank level and pressure indicator so that the level of the tank is known and it can be drained before it overflows and causes many problems.
It not only helps in cleaning the tank on time and maintaining hygiene, but also avoids pollution, which is a major issue in various parts of the country, said Harsh Vardhan, Minister of Science and Technology.
"It is very useful for the Clean India Movement and the ministry is taking the idea forward," he says.
"It was a pleasure for me to present my idea before the President and to hear his praise was the proudest moment in my life," said Indu.
She got the idea when she visited her village and saw that the tank was overflowing. She also noticed that the number of toilets in the village is also increasing and with that the problem will only became worse.
"Nowadays, people in rural areas are getting aware about cleanliness. They are constructing lavatories but overflowing of the septic tank is a major problem," says Manikpuri.
Her idea of a septic tank pressure record aims to warn of the impending problem well in time so that the tank can be drained.
Inspired by her maternal uncle, who is a farmer, Subhra Suchismita Pate from Bhubaneswar in Orissa designed shoes with drills fitted into them so that farmers can dig holes as they walk in the field to sow seeds.
Her uncle suffers from acute backache after long working hours in his farms. The shoes may also contain seed compartments so that they can be easily sown and spread. The rear part of the shoes will have brushes to cover up the holes in which seeds have been sown.
Sebati Kutruka from Bhubaneswar in Orissa, who was driven by her desire to help her father, designed an agricultural tool for digging sweet potato.
She came up with a digger, operated by spring mechanism with a rod, so that sweet potatoes can be dug easily.
Sebati wants to improvise the machine for other vegetables such as yam.
Muskan Jawalkar from Hoshangabad in Madhya Pradesh has
come out with an alternative cooler which throws air in all directions.
"No manufacturer thought about it," said Harsh Vardhan.
The children also came up with simple and effective solutions for issues like encouraging hand washing.
Sheereen Shaikh from Delhi suggested that children be reminded with a message written on the cover of the tiffin box -- "wash your hands before you eat food" -- and with another on the inside cover-- "wash your hands after eating your food".
"I saw small kids eating without washing their hands in rural and slum areas so I thought there should be a way to remind them to wash hand before and after eating," says Shaikh.
"Not washing hands obviously affects personal hygiene and causes diseases," she says.
Minister of Women and Child Development Maneka Gandhi was also highly impressed by the idea.
"Although it is very simple idea, but is very important and can help kids to remind that it is important to wash hands before and after eating. May be, it should be made mandatory to print these lines by lunch box manufacturers," she says.
Maidari Devi from East Godavari in Andhra Pradesh also came up with an innovation linked to cleanliness.
Devi came up with a device that would not only indicate the level of cleanliness of utensils but also reduce manual work of rinsing them.
"The thought of a machine that predicts cleanliness of utensils struck me when I observed that my mother was cleaning the dishes twice," says Devi.
Roshan Sodi, from Sukma district of Chhattisgarh came up with idea, to avoid any wrongdoing in the polling booth.
He suggested a button in the EVMs which can transmit the total number of votes directly to the cloud server as the voting proceeds and also to district Election Commission office if required at regular interval.
"We received about 55,000 innovative ideas from 458 districts from 16 states and Union territories, out of which we have selected only 31 ideas for the award," said Anil Kumar Gupta founder of the Honey Bee Foundation.
"We are not just giving the awards, but also trying to turns these ideas into reality. Children are full of ideas and all they need is a platform and we are trying to provide it. They can give us innovative ideas in any of the 32 Indian languages," said Gupta who is also part of NIF.
Harsh Vardhan also said, "It is wonderful to see so many different ideas from children of various backgrounds. These are not just awards, but are responsibilities to the children to help India became better."
NIF, an autonomous body of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, has been actively engaged in promoting creativity and innovation with support from Honey Bee Network.
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KIGALI, Rwanda (AP) - A Rwandan court has granted bail to an opposition leader a day after arresting her on charges of collaborating with terrorists and "promoting genocide ideology."
Victoire Umuhoza Ingabire was released Thursday but ordered not to leave the capital and to report to authorities weekly. The prosecution says they will appeal her release.
Her party says she is being harassed for challenging President Paul Kagame in elections scheduled for August.
Some 500,000 people died in the 1994 genocide. The massacres ended when mostly Tutsi rebels led by Kagame defeated the mostly Hutu extremists.
Critics of Kagame's government argue the ruling party has used the concept of genocide ideology to discredit detractors and defeat political opponents.
The company said only that its management had the "full confidence" of the board's six independent directors.
Mistry is still the chairman of several key Tata companies including Tata Motors and Tata Steel after his ousting from the chairmanship of Tata Sons, the holding company of all the operating companies of the Tata group.
The Tata group is now seeking to remove Mistry from Tata Motors, a battle that has also revived debate around India's corporate governance and Tata's complex structure.
Tata Motors did not address the issue in a statement issued on Monday, however, noting simply that all decisions taken by the board of Tata Motors on strategy and operations have been "unanimous" and executed by the chairman and the management.
The statement came on the same day the company posted its results for the three months ended Sept. 30. It made a consolidated net profit of 8.48 billion rupees, which compared with a net loss of 17.40 billion rupees in the same period last year, on total income from operations up 7 percent at 670 billion rupees.
"Tata Motors ... generates a substantial profit and revenues, so it is important for Tatas to have control over the board," said Shriram Subramanian, managing director of InGovern Research Services, a firm advising institutional investors.
Tata Sons on Thursday removed Mistry as chairman of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) , 73 percent controlled by the group and the conglomerate's star performer. But it has struggled to get him out at other subsidiaries where ownership is closer to 30 percent.
Boards at Tata Steel and Tata Chemicals voted to keep Mistry as chairman last week.
Directors of Tata Global Beverages , which co-owns and runs Starbucks coffee stores across India, meet on Tuesday.
If the Tata Motors board does not oust Mistry, Tata Sons will have to turn to shareholder meetings. Tata Sons has already called for extraordinary general meetings across its companies to remove Mistry as a director, including Indian Hotels Co , Tata Chemicals Ltd and Tata Motors.
Tata Sons has blamed Mistry's abrupt exit on what it called breach of trust and poor performance, accusing him of eroding shareholder value. It has also said Mistry tried to reduce the role of Tata Sons, controlled by a series of charitable trusts.
Mistry has argued he tried to create internal barriers for better governance - a move that would reduce the Tata trusts' involvement in the operational issues of group companies, which he said should be controlled by their own boards of directors.
The Tata trusts collectively own about two thirds of Tata Sons, while infrastructure company Shapporji Pallonji, owned by Mistry's family, is a minority shareholder in Tata Sons and he remains a director on the board of the holding company.
"A philanthropy running a commercial business creates its own paradoxes," said Institutional Investor Advisory Services, a proxy advisory, in a note about the feud.
Tata Sons said on Sunday said it was "crucially important" for the board members, including independent directors, to consider the future of Tata companies and its stakeholders. A spokesman declined to comment further.
(Additional reporting by Promit Mukherjee; Editing by Stephen Coates, Greg Mahlich)
(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Chennai-based Indian Terrain is spinning a yarn around its city of origin Madras to create a unique identity for its brand and script a story that wins customer loyalty. The brand also wants to differentiate itself from the swarm of American and British labels getting into the market as it builds a national footprint.
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Aldi Ireland today announced it has reached a significant milestone in donating 500,000 meals to charities through FoodCloud since the partnership began.
This equates to a saving of over 700,000 for the charities and community groups involved.
In May Aldi announced a new national partnership with FoodCloud whereby surplus food from Aldi stores across the country would be redistributed to charities and community groups. A total of 79 Aldi stores are now participating in the programme, donating over 500,000 meals or 234 tonnes of food so far.
Charities and community groups across Ireland have benefited from this initiative including the Doorway Project in Letterkenny, Irish Wheelchair Association Sligo, Cashel Social Services and Drogheda Homeless Aid.
FoodCloud is a social enterprise set up to ensure that no good food goes to waste. It connects businesses with surplus food with charities in their local communities that need it through an innovative software platform.
Using the FoodCloud platform, Aldi staff in a store can, in seconds, upload a description of the products available. There are charities linked up to the store through the platform and one of these charities will receive a text saying the food is available for collection. The charity then collects the food and redistributes it to people in the community that need it.
FoodCloud Hubs in Cork, Galway and Dublin rescue, store and redistribute large volumes and a great variety of surplus food from the food industry to charities across Ireland. Aldi's Regional Distribution Centre in Cork is working with FoodCloud Hubs, enabling Aldi to help even more charities.
Aldis Group Buying Director, Finbar McCarthy said, "We are delighted to reach this milestone of donating 500,000 meals to charity through FoodCloud, helping charities to make a 700,000 saving in the process. Even across an efficient retail operation such as Aldi, there will unavoidably be some unsold, surplus food each day. By partnering with FoodCloud such surplus food goes to a good cause."
Source: www.businessworld.ie
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The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Charlie Flanagan is currently leading a three-day (November 13-15) Trade Mission to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
The mission will facilitate high-level business contacts for Irish suppliers spanning a number of key sectors including International Education, Lifesciences, Digital Media, ICT and Telecommunications, Financial Services, Aviation, Agri-technology and Business Services.
During the trade mission, Minister Flanagan will promote Ireland and its world-class companies during a series of high level business engagements with private and public organisations.
He will also undertake a series of engagements with representatives of the Irish business community in the region including the Irish Business Network-Saudi Arabia, the Abu Dhabi Irish Business Council, and the Dubai Irish Business Network.
The 37 delegate-companies represent a wide regional spread, with participants based in Cork, Laois, Limerick, Roscommon, Kerry, Galway, Louth, and Dublin.
The Trade Mission, organised jointly with Enterprise Ireland, is part of ongoing efforts to raise Irelands profile internationally, to improve the already-strong bilateral trade and investment linkages with the Gulf region and to provide a forum for Irish companies active in Saudi Arabia and the UAE to develop their relationships with customers, partners, and other stakeholders. The Trade Mission is also part of Enterprise Irelands broad drive to increase the export market penetration and diversification of Irish companies post Brexit.
Speaking in advance of the visit, Minister Flanagan said, "This Trade Mission will include a number of high-level meetings and will serve to strengthen Irelands economic, political and cultural ties with these key priority markets. I look forward to working with our partners in Enterprise Ireland to produce real results for the Irish economy. Significantly, this mission is also an opportunity to reassure our important trading partners of Irelands commitment to the EU, following the UK vote last July."
Source: www.businessworld.ie
Ibec has today called on Government to introduce a comprehensive package of new measures to head off the worst consequences of Brexit and increased global uncertainty. The report sets out a series of urgent measures to protect Irish businesses against the precipitous decline in sterling and shore up Ireland's competitive position as a place to live, work and invest.
The proposals include a new enterprise stabilisation fund, additional funding for market diversification measures, an access to finance package, trade finance measures and an expansion of online trading supports
Ibec warn that the exporting industries most affected by the sterling fall are typically job intensive and deeply embedded in local economies.
A review of the historical exchange rate and agri-food export relationship shows that a 1% weakness in sterling results in a 0.7% drop in Irish exports to the UK. This has already begun.
Ibec's most recent trade figures for the year to August showed the value of Irish food exports to the UK fell by 8.1% annually. This fall accelerated to 14.5% annually in the two months since the referendum and has hit all categories.
Ibec Director of Policy Fergal OBrien says, "While sterling strengthened somewhat last week, we expect further volatility ahead as markets react to the political twists and turns of Brexit negotiations. The Irish Government can't sit on its hands during these negotiations, while sustainable businesses fall prey to the already evident economic realities of Brexit. A comprehensive immediate response package is now needed to save jobs."
Source: www.businessworld.ie
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Enterprise Ireland have launched their latest 500,000 Competitive Start Fund for Female Entrepreneurs to support early stage start-ups.
The fund is open to applications from female entrepreneurs or female-led start-ups active in the Manufacturing and Internationally Traded Services sectors.
Now in its fifth year, the Enterprise Ireland Fund provides 50,000 in equity funding for each successful applicant. It is open for submissions and will close at 3pm on Wednesday, 23 November 2016.
The purpose of the Competitive Start Fund is to accelerate the growth of female-led start-up companies that have the potential to employ more than 10 people and achieve 1 million in export sales within three years.
The fund is designed to enable those companies reach key commercial and technical milestones which will ensure delivery of their product or service to an international audience.
Manager of High Potential Start-Ups at Enterprise Ireland, Orla Battersby said, "This is a dedicated Competitive Start Fund to encourage more women to start businesses, providing a launch platform for female entrepreneurs in the Manufacturing and Internationally Trade Services sectors."
She added, "A priority for Enterprise Ireland is to help Irish entrepreneurs with global ambition to start their businesses and the 500,000 Fund will go towards supporting the next generation of female-led start-ups to compete in export markets."
Source: www.businessworld.ie
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The international Startup Nations Summit, which has never been held on the European continent, will be welcomed to Cork for Global Entrepreneurship Week 2016.
The Startup Nations Summit, which takes place on 19 November, is just one of many events organized for startups, entrepreneurs, policy makers and stakeholders in the startup ecosystem.
Co-hosted by Cork innovates and Startup Ireland, an extensive range of events including the Global Startup Gathering will take place across Cork city and county from Spike Island to City Hall.
More than 200 national and international investor-ready startups applied to participate in the CorkBIC Global Investor Challenge. The competition final will take place on Spike Island, Cork on Friday 18th November with 3 finalists pitching at the Startup Nation Summit Gala Dinner on Saturday 19th November.
Among the international delegates, President of the European Committee of the Regions, Markku Markkula, will be in Cork to participate in the Startup policy discussions and US State Dept Director of Global Entrepreneurship Thomas Lersten and GEN President Jonathan Ortmans will be actively engaging with national and international delegates at the events in Cork running from 17 to 20 November 2016.
Head of Economic Development at Cork City Council, Seamus Coghlan says, "Many of the worlds leading minds on startup policy and entrepreneurship will be meeting in Cork for the Startup Nations Summit. We want to demonstrate how we are here to engage and support businesses in Cork, and there is no better time than Global Entrepreneurship Week to do so"
Source: www.businessworld.ie
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A requestor tenders (RFT) for A Review of Future Capacity Needs at Irelands State Airports has been published by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport.
This review was announced by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross TD on 22 September and concerns the long-term development of Irelands State Airports (Dublin, Cork and Shannon) to 2050.
In the case of Dublin Airport only, the study is expected to recommend the timeframe for the development of new terminal capacity Terminal 3 and its appropriate design and optimum location.
Tenderers will also be asked to assess the relative advantages and disadvantages of the funding and operation of Terminal 3 by the existing airport operator in comparison to being operated on an independent basis.
The RFT is seeking tenders for consultants to analyse, for each of the three airports, the capacity requirements to meet forecasted passenger throughput to 2050 and to identify priorities for infrastructure provision.
Speaking last week, Minister Ross said, "Irish airports, and Dublin Airport in particular, are experiencing a strong return to growth and we need to have a clear and coherent vision for the future. To ensure that our airports are prepared for the longer term, I have asked that this review consider the development of the three State Airports to 2050. Consultants will also be asked to identify and prioritise new infrastructure which will be required in the coming years."
Source: www.businessworld.ie
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YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 12, ARMENPRESS. More than 6000 people with visual problems are living in Armenia, 500 of whom are children, director of the #14 special school for children with visual impairment Mr. Alexan Aharonyan told a press conference in ARMENPRESS.
This one school for visually impaired children is operating in Armenia, where 100 children are learning from Javakhk, Nagorno Karabakh and various provinces of Armenia. Children receive complete education in the school, all subjects are included in the program. A pre-school is also operating in the school under the decree of the minister, Aharonyan said.
According to him, the main issue remains the Braille textbook matter.
Thanks to different organizations it was possible to publish some quantity, however its not enough.
The school is solving the issue with a Braille printer.
Alexan Aharonyan says one school in the country is not enough for the visually impaired.
Martin Sargsyan, vice president of the Union of the visually impaired of Armenia NGO says blind people and the visually impaired have problems being employed.
Previously they were employed in the production facilities of the union, however currently the production work with lesser capacity, therefore they are unable to employ many.
Visually impaired people produce various products in the manufacturing facilities, however the Armenian market is small, and exporting is a problem. We hope membership to the EEU will open new prospects in terms of exports, Sargsyan said.
It was announced today that Talent Jam Cork will take place on Saturday 19th November during Global Startup Gathering 2016 sponsored by Bank of Ireland.
The event, taking place at the Bank of Ireland Workbench, Patrick Street will be the first held outside the United States and promises to connect up to 20 Irish tech startups seeking talent with local professionals interested in working with them.
It is a one-of-a-kind, hyperlocal event for individuals, businesses and organizations to share and find great local talent. Talent Jam live events feature 1 minute, "open mic" pitches, where presenters describe their talent needs to a live audience followed by fun and impactful networking.
Since founded Talent Jam has helped entrepreneurs find employees, co-founders, consultants, advisors, and even investors. It's also helped many talented people find meaningful work close to home. Talent Jam launched and has grown rapidly in the United States as an entrepreneur-friendly alternative to traditional networking events and job fairs.
Speaking about the event, Workbench Manager at Bank of Ireland, Ita OSullivan said, "We are delighted to welcome the inaugural Talent Jam event to our newly opened Cork Workbench. The event provides a fantastic opportunity to connect businesses looking for talent with the rich pool of professionals in the region looking for work. Many of Ireland's best tech startups and talented professionals will connect in a truly authentic way."
Source: www.businessworld.ie
DocuSign have today announced the opening of their Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence in Dublin as part of their ongoing commitment to Europe and protecting their customers data and privacy. The Centre will be committed to conducting research into the latest cyberattacks and trends, while developing tools for the advanced detection of such threats.
A critical focus for the Centre within the next three years will be undertaking research and development into security orchestration and automation which will directly inform advancements and innovation for DocuSigns security tools.
The Centre of Excellence will play a significant role in maintaining and building upon the trust that more than 250,000 companies and more than 100 million users across 188 countries who put their trust in the DocuSign Global Trust Network to complete nearly one million transactions per day.
The project is supported by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise & Innovation through IDA Ireland.
Welcoming the new investment by DocuSign, the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Mary Mitchell O'Connor said, "It is great news that a company of the stature of DocuSign has decided to open this new facility here. We have the IT skills available to enable the company to grow and to embed their operations in Ireland. Their arrival is a great vote of confidence in what Ireland has to offer and I wish the team the very best for their future in Ireland.
Source: www.businessworld.ie
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It was announced last Friday that Irelands first rural digital hub, the Ludgate Digital Hub in Skibbereen, Co. Cork, will grant seed funding to online education startup, Digedu, with the company relocating from its base in Dublin to the West Cork town.
As part of National Digital Week 2016, Ludgate Digital Hub recently announced a 450,000 investment package, the Ludgate Seed Capital Fund, to help startups develop and scale their business, attract new talent or develop their product or service.
Digedu is the first to receive funding from this package with an investment from Ludgate of 45,000 in the business, 10% of the total seed funding. The company is an online provider of courses aimed at teaching skills for the digital age to a global audience.
The funds will allow investment in the companys educational platform with the business aiming to employ ten people within the next three years.
Speaking at the announcement, Founder of Digedu, Bryan Hurley said, "This substantial investment in our business at this early stage gives us the platform to develop and grow at a much quicker and efficient pace than otherwise might have been possible."
He added, "Skibbereens Ludgate Digital Hub provides us with everything we need from high speed connectivity to mentorship in an exciting startup environment and is a unique opportunity for a small tech company to participate in a truly unique and inspiring initiative."
Source: www.businessworld.ie
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The Nation.
While the broader resort-grade property market continues to reel in the wake of the prolonged global recession and resulting reductions in consumer spending, some niche segments are proving irresistible to purchasers.
A recent alternative form of investment has been fractional yacht ownership. Greater Phuket has seen a steady rise in the number of private marinas over the past decade, starting with the Boat Lagoon and Yacht Haven and followed by the Royal Phuket Marina and the Ao Po, Grand Marina. A super-yacht facility is now under construction at Jumeirah Private Island.
Fractional ownership offerings were launched in 2007 by the Royal Phuket Marina Cruising Club. Then the island's top boutique hotel, the Twin Palms jumped into the market with the debut of Phuket Premier Yachting last year, and most recently the Tawan Cruising Club was launched about the middle of this year.
Typically, the offerings take a single vessel and divide the ownership into 10 shares. Each share represents 28 days' use. There are booking procedures to control time allotment and restrictions on use. Overhead expenses are an add-on and include the costs of crew and administration, insurance, maintenance and food and beverage consumed during time spend aboard.
The companies engaged in this business often find synergies with their core activities, which include operating hotels, property-property developments or marinas. The operators say the buyers of fractional ownership shares are all foreigners, with British, French and Scandinavians in the top three and more than half of the buyers live or work in Asia.
In many cases yachts are available for rent when share-owners do not wish to use their time allotments. The operators also provide private charters to outside parties at an average price of Bt 150,000 to Bt 200,000 a day. Owners are then able to offset this revenue against their annual maintenance costs.
At the expiry of a five-year fractional ownership term which is considered to be the useful life of the vessel a decision is made on whether to refit the craft or sell it. In the case of sale, any residual value is shared among the owners. This is often touted as a financial gain. However, because of the relatively brief history of these schemes, residual, values remain untested.
Despite the financial crisis, most high-net-worth individuals continue to give high priority to leisure and travel. While many of them are now looking at large purchases, others are tending to buy only those products they intend to use. This makes the fractional-ownership proposition both attractive and timely.
Greater Phuket, with its access to Phang Nga Bay and its islands, as well as destinations like Krabi, Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, will see continued growth of yacht fractional ownership in the coming years. With the recent announcement of a new Sarasin Bridge connecting the island to Phang Nga, there is promise that yachts will be heading straight out into the Andaman Sea to such exotic locations as the Similan Islands and the Burma Banks. At the moment, fractions look to be going out to sea in increasing numbers.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. Bulgaria's Prime Minister Boyko Borisov has said he will resign after his party's candidate was defeated in presidential elections, BBC reports.
Mr Borisov had backed the centre-right speaker of parliament, Tsetska Tsacheva, who got only 35% in Sunday's run-off vote, according to exit polls.
A political outsider, the former commander of the country's Air Force Rumen Radev, won with more than 58%.
He was backed by the opposition Socialist Party.
Earlier on Sunday, Mr Borisov had said: "We will not participate in any way in the government if we lose today."
After the exit polls gave the opposition's candidate an overwhelming lead, he said he would fulfil his promise in the coming days.
"The results clearly show that the ruling coalition no longer holds the majority," he said.
"We accept the will of the people and we congratulate those who have the support of the majority of the voters."
The coalition that Mr Borisov formed upon re-election in 2014 is dependent on the support of centre-left and nationalist parties.
President-elect Radev has said he will keep Bulgaria in Nato but has affirmed that "being pro-European does not mean being anti-Russian".
His opponent, Mrs Tsacheva, was seen as more pro-Europe than him, and had referred to Bulgaria's past as a Soviet satellite as the country's "dark past".
About 6% of voters ticked a "none of the above" option on their ballot paper.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on approving the agreement on joint unification of Armenia and Russias military forces.
Adopt the proposal of the Russian Government on signing the agreement between Armenia and Russia regarding joint forces (troops) of the Armed forces of Armenia and the Armed forces of Russia, the document reads.
According to the decree, the defense ministry of Russia is tasked with negotiating with the Armenian side with the participation of the FM of Russia, and sign the agreement after reaching a deal.
The launching of this years edition coincided was commemorated by thrilling performances from musicians and theatre companies from all over the globe.
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The 11th edition of the African Theatre Festival for Children and Young People, FATEJ was launched over the weekend at the French Institute in Yaounde. The launching of this years edition coincided with the celebration of the 20th anniversary of FATEJ and the 35th anniversary of Theatre Du Chocolat, making this years edition a very special one. Since 2004, the African Theatre Festival for Children and Young People and Theatre Du Chocolat has partnered with the International Association of theatre for children and young people, ASSITEJ to ensure that African theatres understand how to manage the art. The African Theatre Festival for Children and young people FATEJ is a biennial festival that was created in 1996 and has as objective to create a platform for African theatre companies to interact.
This years festival is termed Inclusivity and will run from the 11-18 of November 2016. Activities will hold in three different towns. Yaounde, Soa and Mfou and will encompass theatre activities of all sorts. And even though the children are included in this years event, they are just to be part of the audience as it is the youths that will perform for them.
The opening ceremony was graced with the presence of guest from America, Asia and Europe who came to lend their support to the African theatre companies which are here to participate at the Festival. The theatre companies which came from outside the continent included, Teatre Tre from Sweden, Ueli Bischel from Switzerland and Treteaux De Haute Alsace from France and those that came from around Africa included Theatre Claire from Burkina Faso Teatro Galagalazul from Mozambique, Rwanda and Kininso Concept Production from Nigeria just to mention a few.
The venue for the launching was inspired by the fact that it was at the French Institute that the first theatre act was performed on July 4, 1981, so it was for them to reflect on how far they have come and how far they still have to go, said Mr Etundi Zeyang, Artistic director. Thrilling performances came from Cameroons Theatre Du Chocolat entitled Abole a short play and Barbara Clemance, Cameroonian Bikutsi artist based in Europe that kept the audience clapping and cheering for most parts of the evening.
Cynthia Akenji NGUM Ngum (Intern)
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| BY Ricki Green |
In a huge week, composer Rafael May won Silver at London International Advertising Awards for Cadbury Marvellous Creations as his Afghanistan special launched on Channel 7.
Composer Rafael May had a scorcher week last week taking the Silver Trophy for Best Original Song for Cadbury Marvellous Creations spot. May was the lyricist, composer and sound designer in the beautiful piece via SapientNitro Melbourne. Rafael was the only Australian music winner.
On top of that, Channel 7 launched the Afghanistan special introduced personally by Kerry Stokes on Sunday night with Rafs gripping music and sound design. The tour de force was through Luscious Films, the War Memorial and legendary journo, Chris Masters, in one of the biggest pieces of branded content of the year.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. Evidence gathered in the investigation of the criminal case on the July 29 riots in Yerevans Sari Tagh district suggests preparations and premeditation for mass disturbances were carried out the same day prior to the rally of citizens from the Freedom Square, with the purpose of breaching the police line, reaching the police seized police precinct and assist the criminal activities of the gunmen.
The Prosecutor General requested the abovementioned criminal case from the Investigative Committee and sent it to the Special Investigations Service for attaching the criminal case to the ambush/hostage taking criminal case of the police precinct, and carrying out a joint investigation.
"We can get overseas university students who spend all their money on books and study and not enough on themselves. We do get a lot of homeless people, but we also get people who are well-dressed, well spoken and down on their luck and you can see it."
International Finance Corporation expresses interest in funding Ethiopia Djibouti fuel pipeline project
The International Finance Corporation, IFC, the investment arm of the World Bank has expressed interest in financing the planned Ethiopia Djibouti fuel pipeline project.
The South Africa- based infrastructure investment group, Black Rhino, has proposed to the Ethiopian government to build a 550-km long pipeline to transport diesel, gasoline and jet fuel from Djibouti port to central Ethiopia. The project is estimated to cost $1.5 billion. The Ethiopian government has reviewed and accepted the proposal in principle.
Backed by the US investment group Black Stone, Black Rhino has undertaken a feasibility study on the project, which is going to be the first fuel pipeline in Ethiopia.
Chief investment officer with IFC Kalim M. Shah said that IFC has an interest in financing the Djibouti-Awash fuel pipeline construction project. Shah said experts of IFC and executives of Black Rhino had discussions.
We have been in discussion with Black Rhino but the project is at its early stage. It did not progress to the point where I would have something to announce right now but definitely that is a project we are interested in financing. We are looking at it and had some deliberations with Black Rhino, Shah said.
He said that it was too early to further comment on the project adding IFC was also looking at the textile, leather and cement industries in Ethiopia as well.
Ethiopias annual fuel import, which is growing at a rate of ten percent, has reached 3.6 million metric tons. The country so far uses tanker trucks to transport the fuel from the Port of Djibouti to central Ethiopia costing the country dearly.
The governments of Ethiopian and Djibouti signed a framework agreement on the planned pipeline construction in 2015.
Black Rhino has finalized the feasibility study and it has been confirmed that the project is feasible. The company is now working on the implementation study. It is set to present the final feasibility study to the Ethiopian government, which in turn will review the study and give the green light to proceed with the project if it finds it acceptable.
Once an agreement is signed with the Ethiopian government another agreement will be inked with the government of Djibouti on the modalities of the pipe construction.
The fuel pipeline project, known as the Horn of Africa Pipeline, includes an import facility and 950,000 barrels of storage capacity in Damerjog, Djibouti, linked to a storage terminal in Awash, Ethiopia. According to Black Rhino, the 20-inch (51-centimeter) line is capable of transporting 240,000 barrels of fuel daily. The total cost of the project is estimated at 1.55 billion dollars.
The project is a 50-50 joint venture by Black Rhino and Mining, Oil and Gas Services (MOGS), a unit of the Johannesburg-based Royal Bafogeng Holdings. Financial close is expected in 2017, with construction scheduled for completion after two years. The developers need to raise at least one billion dollars debt financing.
If everything goes according to plan, the project will be awarded to Black Rhino on a build, operate and transfer (BOT) terms. The developers will build the facility, operate it for 30 years and transfer it to the Ethiopian government. It is believed that the developers need to raise at least one billion dollars debt financing.
A non-oil producing country, Ethiopia annually imports 3.6 million metric tons of refined petroleum products, most of it via the port of Djibouti, at a cost of $2.8 billion.
Although the investment cost is high, pipeline is the safest and cheapest mode of fuel transport per one ton of oil. It is also technologically advanced as it uses IT-based monitoring systems.
www.ifc.org
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. Finance Minister of Armenia Vardan Aramyan says the responsibility in connection with the army relates to all of us, reports Armenpress.
Commenting on the issue of keeping 1000 AMD monthly from each employees salaries for assisting the army, the Minister said we must consider our semi-state of war, thus, we must all together think about assisting the army.
If a soldier, God forbid, is killed or becomes disabled, we must consider one thing that he has ensured our security, therefore, if such case happens, it means that his family is deprived of future revenues. Thats why there must be an insurance system which will be able to compensate the lost incomes to their families in the coming 20 years, the Minister said.
According to him we expect incomes from other sources, but the army is important for all of us regardless of our social condition and place of residence.
The Minister said the most important is that those funds are provided by the people and they must be visible, transparent, perceivable and very clear.
Referring to social issues, the Minister said they have always existed and will exist since the annual per capita income is 3500 USD in Armenia. There will be the same social issues, even if we have a 10% growth every year. Since, whether we want it or not, the threshold of our life insurance is still low. Otherwise, we would be a rich country, he said.
In conclusion the Minister asked not to associate the social issues with the 1000 AMD kept for assisting the army. This system shows how much the person feels responsible for the army. Lets look at this as a citizen rather than as the one having an income, since in this case there is the principle of volunteering as well, the Minister said.
The company said that it has separated Cyta Hellas from the rest of the Cyta group, in order to open the prospect of strategic options with potential investment partners.
The decision was confirmed by Cyprus government, which said that 100% of Cyta Hellas would be sold before Cyta itself is privatised. The government said that it would sell Cyta Hellas through a competition and that it was inviting expressions of interest from investors.
Cyta has 300,000 consumer and business subscribers in Greece, where it competes mainly against Deutsche Telekom-controlled OTE.
The company said in a statement: The environment of economic uncertainty and constant changes in Greece creates major new challenges daily for all the telecoms industry companies.
Cyta has invested 200 million in its Greek operations over eight years, where it has built 5,500km of fibre and set up 500 service points. The company stood out in the market, it said, but reports point out that it has been consistently loss-making, and has an estimated 60 million of debts.
The Cyprus Weekly newspaper quotes an unnamed source suggesting that Cyta might get no more than 30-40 million for the Greek operation.
Mobile operator Wind Hellas was named in April as possibly interested in acquiring Cyta Hellas. Wind Hellas once owned by Telecom Italia and then by Orascom was rescued from financial difficulties in 2010 by a group of local investors.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. The European Commission has registered a regress in Turkeys justice, human rights, freedom of speech and media, as well as in a number of sectors, reports Armenpress.
The European Commission published an annual assessment report on November 9 over the major political and economic reforms carried out by Turkey necessary for the EU membership.
The part of the report referring to South Caucasus and Central Asia says Turkey was vocal in its support for Azerbaijan during clashes in April 2016 in Nagorno Karabakh.
The 2009 protocols on normalization of relations with Armenia are not yet ratified.
The report underscores also the Turkish authorities strict and regular reaction towards the recognition of the 1915 Genocide.
The authors of the report referred also to the main case launched in connection with the assassination of Armenian journalist Hrant Dink in 2007, the obstacles of opening a university department for Armenian language by the Armenian Patriarchate, as well as the activity of Grey Wolves organization on hate speech against Armenians in Kars.
The publication of the report was followed by the strict criticism of the Turkish authorities.
Turkish Minister for EU Affairs Omer Celik even called it unconstructive and biased.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. Armenia finds years of cooperation with NATO to be effective.
Deputy Head of the defense policy department of the defense ministry Mher Isyrayelyan says the Alliance has been a very reliable partner for Armenia.
We carried out our cooperation in various directions, from which I will point out our participation in the field of military cooperation in Afghanistan with 121 troops, and in Kosovo with 31 troops.
Within the framework of the military cooperation, we also take part in NATO military exercises, trainings, jointly evaluate tactical capabilities and level of combat readiness. We achieved great successes in this issue, already having implemented NATO 2nd degree evaluation for our peacekeeping brigade battalion, Israyelyan said.
He stressed NATO is an important partner and advisor for Armenia in the fields of defense reforms, educational, anti-corruption etc.
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Bengaluru, November 12, 2016: CRY volunteers in Bengaluru, joined to celebrate children's day across the nation by organizing a walk to engage with the community and raise awareness on child rights. The community walk involved students and teachers from the Government Primary and High School, Yeshwantpur, along with CRY volunteers and employees.
Around 250 students from the school participated in the walk. The students and volunteers engaged with parents of children and community leaders raising awareness on children's issues and also addressing queries regarding education and other child related schemes. The walk culminated at the school and was followed by an event.
The children were addressed by Ms. Kripa Alva, KSCPCR Chairman (Karnataka State Commission for Protection for Child Rights), Dr. C.N. Ashwath Narayan, Malleshwaram Constituency MLA, Mr. N. Mariswamy, KSCPCR Member, Mr. Abdul Wajid Khaji, Deputy Director of Public Instruction (DDPI) and, Mr. Basavaraja Gowda, Block Education Officer (BEO) North.
Suma Ravi, Regional Director CRY emphasized on the volunteer support and said, "It is the relentless passion of the volunteers towards the cause of children that drives them to organize these events to mobilize communities, spread awareness and even raise resources. We have witnessed the impact of their involvement over the years of working in our PAG (Public Action Group) areas with communities as well as schools. More children are out of labour and re-enrolled in schools, and they are equipped to stand up for their rights."
"KSCPCR has been a constant support in our aim to ensure happy healthy childhoods. We are happy to have had our volunteers involved in their enrolment drives providing them unique opportunity to work for children's issues. We also would like to whole heartedly thank the management and students of Government Primary and High School Yeshwantpur for supporting our efforts and being an integral part of this initiative", she added.
The event was organized at this school by CRY to emphasize the importance of government schools, since they are the backbone of India's education system, especially for underprivileged students. The commitment of the school's HMs - Ms. Dakshayani (High School HM) and Ms. Lalitha (HM -Primary school) towards welcoming any new initiative or programmes which benefits children was also commended.
Talking at the event, Ms. Kripa Alva, KSCPCR Chairman said, "We constantly strive to engage with people and communities to ensure children are not deprived of their basic rights and CRY and its volunteers have always provided valuable support in the path to achieving the common goals we envisage for our children. We look forward to many such collaborations."
The children also performed various cultural activities at the event, which included mime performance by CRY Volunteers and dance performances by the students of the school.
About CRY
CRY - Child Rights and You (formerly known as Child Relief and You) is an Indian NGO that believes in every child's right to a childhood - to live, to learn, grow and play. For over 30 years, CRY and its partners have worked with parents and communities to ensure Lasting Change in the lives of more than 20 Lakh underprivileged children. For more information please visit us at www.cry.org
Children's Day: Its importance and relevance
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Known to have one of the best educational system in the world, Finland's school education system is all set to undergo a revolutionary change. Finland is all set to remove all subjects from the school curriculum. The subject system for the schools will be introduced for senior secondary students beginning at the age of 16.
Hereafter, classes will be not be held for subjects like physics, math, literature, history, geography, etc. The system will be again introduced for senior students at the age of 16.
According to the the head of the Department of Education in Helsinki, Marjo Kyllonen, explained the changes, the changes being brought are something to be fit for the 21st century. The schools now are teaching the old-fashioned way which was of benefit in the beginning of the 1900s. But the needs now are different says Marjo Kyllonen.
5 subjects that should be added to the school curriculum
The changes in Finland's education system is expected to be complete by 2020.
The changes in Finland's education system are as follows:
While the nation is celebrating children's day, children in Kashmir are amidst an earnest and serious aura as the board exams commence today for classes 10 and 12.
Schools in Kashmir had initially closed for two weeks long summer vacation on July 1, but could not resume functioning due to the violence that outbroke in the valley.
Hizbul Mujahideen, commander of Burhan Wani along with his two associates were killed in an encounter with security forces in a village in Kokernag area of south Kashmir's Anantnag district on July 8. Since then schools were forced to remain shut due to the prevelance of terror.
The unrest has left 85 persons dead and thousands hurt while hundreds of people including students were booked under Public Safety Act (PSA) for participating in the protests.
Even schools were targetted in the violence and the safety of students were at stake. The government however took the volition to conduct board exams with some relaxation for students there as they have been struggling to study under a tensed atmosphere.
The students had hardly attended 90 days of school for an entire academic year but endure to give their best for the exams, in order to not lose a precious academic year.
The relaxation specified is that they can cover fifty per cent of the syllabus alone for the exam or take up another exam in March, on condition that they must attempt all the questions.
"All arrangements are in place for over one lakh students scheduled to appear for the 10th and 12th class examinations. While 484 exam centres have been set up for about 48,000 candidates for class 12th examination across Kashmir division, as many as 550 exam centres have been established for 5,5000 candidates for class 10th examination," an official of School Education department told PTI.
HRD Minister Expresses Intention to Have Mandatory Board Exams for CBSE Class X
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. Defense Minister of Armenia Vigen Sargsyan denied the reports in the media which says the Defense Ministry is going to allocate 50 million AMD for the upcoming concert on January 28, reports Armenpress.
Responding to MP Naira Zohrabyans question, the Minister said: This publications data related to the concert organized on January 28, 2016 which has already taken place. And in that publication the talk is about the already organized concert, the Minister said.
He informed that the Defense Ministry is going to organize a concert dedicated to the 25th anniversary of Armenias army, however, the competition is not announced yet. We will hold a concert, will invite you as well, and together will celebrate since it is the integral part of our propaganda component. However, we have not announced a competition yet, havent recognized the winner yet, as well as havent signed a contract, the Minister said.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. Bulgarian Prime Minister Boiko Borisov tendered his government's resignation in parliament on Monday after his center-right GERB party candidate lost the presidential election to a Russia-friendly political novice backed by the opposition Socialists, Reuters reports.
Rumen Radev won Sunday's presidential election by a wide margin, partial official results showed, helped by discontent with Borisov's failure to combat corruption, disappointment with the European Union and concerns about alienating an increasingly assertive Russia, an historic ally of Bulgaria.
The resignation of Borisov's minority government is likely to result in months of political uncertainty and will probably spell an early parliamentary election in the spring - further delaying reforms and scaring away investment, analysts said.
Radev, a former air force commander who says Bulgaria needs to be pragmatic in balancing the requirements of its EU and NATO membership and its relations with Russia, won 59.4 percent of the vote, the partial results showed, against 36.2 percent for GERB's Tsetska Tsacheva.
Borisov said on Sunday he would not try to seek support to form a new government within the current parliament and so did opposition Socialists, making an early election virtually certain for the Black Sea state.
Analysts said Bulgarians punished Borisov for trying to take over all powers in the country, but said his GERB party remains the most popular political faction, even though the Socialists have managed to narrow the gap.
"At this stage, it seems that the snap polls would not produce a parliament that is very different from the current (fragmented) one," Parvan Simeonov, a political analyst with Gallup International said.
If neither of three parties in the parliament manages to form a government, the outgoing president, Rosen Plevneliev, will have to appoint a caretaker government. But under the Bulgarian constitution, he would not be able to dissolve the chamber and call an early parliamentary election.
This would be the first task of Radev after he takes office in January.
@DisneySpain: La marca Moana esta registrada tanto en Espana como en algunos paises europeos. Por eso la pelicula Moana, sera Vaiana. Disney Espana (@DisneySpain) October 8, 2015
The reason for the name change in Italy to Oceania remains more mysterious, however. Disney Italy hasnt offered any official explanation, but the running theory in Italian media is that Disney was compelled to change the name thanks to the notoriety of Italian porn actress Moana Pozzi, who passed away in 1994 at the age of 33. Like the Disney princess, Pozzis first name had Polynesian roots; she was named after a Hawaiian island that means the point where the sea is deepest.
In addition to her film career, Pozzi was the co-founder of the Italian political movement, the Love Party, and ran unsuccessfully for the mayor of Rome. Per a 2004 piece in the The New York Times that described Pozzis diverse activities:
Pozzi wasand remainsItalys most revered porn star. Stunningly beautiful with a razor-sharp mind, Pozzi created a public persona that in just a few years became as popular with hormonally charged young men as with devout grandmothers.Indeed, even while Pozzi was performing in erotic cabarets and filming cheesy porn flicks, she lived a parallel life as a respected pundit on television talk shows, philosophizing about sexual freedom or holding forth on gay rights or denouncing the Mafia.
Pozzi was so well known before her death that she even starred in her own animated short, Moanaland (dir. Mario Verger), about a porn star who exposes political corruption:
Whatever headaches these name alterations have caused for Disney, the company is likely taking the changes in stride, since the early buzz for Moana suggests theyve got another big hit on their hands. Perhaps even as big as the career of Italys homegrown Moana.
UPDATED: A Cartoon Brew reader told us on Twitter that Moana directors John Musker and Ron Clements were asked about this topic at Annecy, and confirmed that the Moana Pozzi connection played a role in the name change:
The legendary Japanese animation director Hayao Miyazaki, who has produced his countrys top-three-grossing homegrown films of all-timeSpirited Away, Howls Moving Castle, and Princess Mononokewants to un-retire and make another feature film.
Miyazakis retirement from feature animation is a bit of a running gag; he has often announced retirement after completing a film. In September 2013, he made a formal announcement at a press conference attended by over 600 journalists. Still, even with that events sense of finality, many didnt actually believe Miyazaki was finished with feature filmsand they may have been right.
The news of Miyazakis pending return to feature film was the subject of an entire NHK TV special that aired in Japan on Sunday: Owaranai Hito Miyazaki Hayao (The Man Who Is Not Done: Hayao Miyazaki). In the show, Miyazaki not only discussed his current projecta 12-minute CG animated short Kemushi no Boro (Boro the Caterpillar) that will debut at the Ghibli Museum in 2017but floated plans for a follow-up feature film.
Photo: Contributed
The age of digital media has changed how people get their information, and a UBC researcher wants to know exactly what has changed and where.
Assoc. Prof. Jon Corbett has teamed up with Ryerson Universitys School of Journalism and Royal Roads University, to work on the Local News Research Project to examine the future of local journalism and news sources across Canada.
Corbett created an interactive map that will give people an opportunity to track changes to media like a small town newspaper closing and comment on whats going on.
There has been a huge transformation of media and the way people are getting their news in the past 10 years, said Corbett. We want to know what type of news are people getting, is it from the same source, and is it a credible source? We want to examine the consumption of news across the country and how it has changed.
The crowdsourcing map launched in June; since then more than 800 people have used it to explore and report changes to local news outlets in communities across Canada. People can add a marker to the site to represent an event like a newspaper shutting down, or reducing the number editions it publishes a week, or even a merger of media outlets.
Users can also use it to identify which media companies are scaling back or expanding local news operations.
This map gives us the best visual analysis of whats happening in Canadian media across the country, says Corbett. There has been a very definite temporal change, and we can see it.
The map will be used to detect geographical patterns and other trends such as whether certain types of media outlets are closing more frequently than other types.
We are concerned about local news-poverty, says Ryersons April Lindgren, map co-creator and principal investigator for the project.
People who live in smaller cities and towns, suburban communities and rural areas have fewer options to begin with, and in recent years their choices have become even more limited. Traditional news outlets have been hit by cutbacks, consolidations and closures, while digital-first news sites often struggle to stay afloat.
Photo: The Canadian Press
Immigrants and their advocates added their voices on Sunday to those who have been marching and protesting Donald Trump's presidential win.
Organizers said the protest scheduled for Sunday mid-afternoon in Manhattan was about speaking out against Trump's support of deportation and other measures. It was the latest in days of demonstrations across the country. Other protests were expected Sunday in San Francisco, St. Louis Philadelphia, Denver and more.
On Saturday, demonstrators gathered in big cities like New York and Los Angeles, as well as in smaller places like Worcester, Massachusetts, and Iowa City, Iowa.
In Los Angeles, an estimated 8,000 people marched Saturday to condemn what they saw as Trump's hate speech about Muslims, pledge to deport people in the country illegally and crude comments about women.
Protests also were held in Detroit, Minneapolis and others. More than 200 people, carrying signs, gathered on the steps of the Washington state capitol. The group chanted "not my president" and "no Trump, no KKK, no fascist USA."
In Tennessee, Vanderbilt University students sang civil rights songs and marched through campus across a Nashville street, temporarily blocking traffic.
Demonstrations also took place internationally. A group of Mexicans at statue representing independence in Mexico City expressed their concerns about a possible wave of deportations. One school teacher said it would add to the "unrest" that's already in Mexico. About 300 people protested Trump's election as the next American president outside the U.S. Embassy near the landmark Brandenburg Gate in Berlin.
Mostly, the demonstrations were peaceful. However, in Portland, Oregon, a man was shot and wounded Saturday morning during a confrontation. Police arrested two teenagers in the shooting.
Protesters have gathered since Wednesday at Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles. Police in the city arrested five people downtown during an anti-Trump protest that wound down in the early Sunday.
Four adults were cited for vandalism and a juvenile was arrested on suspicion of battery on an officer.
Photo: The Canadian Press
Bulgarian Prime Minister Boiko Borisov announced his resignation after exit polls showed his party losing badly in Sunday's runoff presidential election.
Surveys by several polling organizations showed Gen. Rumen Radev, 53, a former non-partisan chief of Bulgarian Air Force, taking about 58 per cent of the vote.
"We accept the will of the people and we congratulate those who have the support of the majority of the voters," Borisov said.
Tsetska Tsacheva, a 58-year-old lawyer and member of Borisov's centre-right party, had about 36 per cent.
Initial results from the official vote count were expected later on Sunday.
The new president will face a possible rise in migrants from neighbouring Turkey and growing tensions between Russia and the West.
In the first round of voting, Radev surprisingly finished first with 25 per cent of the vote, followed by Tsacheva with 22 per cent.
Bulgaria, which joined the European Union a decade ago, remains the poorest member of the 28-nation bloc. Its 7.2 million people are very much divided in its loyalties.
Bulgaria belongs to NATO and the EU, but many Bulgarians still feel a cultural and historical affinity with Russia, and the country's heavily dependence on Russian energy supplies leaves it vulnerable to political pressure by the Kremlin.
Borisov, whose party has triumphed in all national elections in the last decade, has said he will resign if Tsacheva loses the runoff, opening the way to an early parliamentary election. Halfway into its four-year term, Borisov's coalition government has managed to restore political stability after months of anti-corruption protests, but its popularity has faded due to the slow pace of reforms to eliminate graft and overhaul the judicial system.
A political rookie, Radev has attracted many Bulgarians who are fed up with corrupt politicians. The former NATO fighter pilot who once studied at the U.S. Air War College in Alabama, has pledged to maintain Bulgaria's place in NATO but also says "being pro-European does not mean being anti-Russian."
Tsacheva, seeking to become Bulgaria's first female president, was expected to continue her party's pro-Europe foreign policy. She has tried to rally other right-wing parties behind her, urging them not to allow "Bulgaria to return to the dark past" of being under Russia's thumb.
Photo: Twitter - NASA
Canadians may want to turn their eyes to the night skies on Monday if they want to see the moon pass closer to the Earth than it has in almost 70 years.
According to NASA, the so-called 'supermoon' will be the closest full moon to earth since 1948, and it won't be as close again until 2034.
The moon will be at its closest just before dawn on Monday, but will be almost equally visible Sunday and Monday nights.
The space agency says at that moment, the moon can appear larger and reflects up to 30 per cent more light on Earth than when it's at its farthest point of orbit.
But it says casual viewers are not likely to notice a difference.
Randy Attwood of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada points out that the term "supermoon" was not coined by astronomers and that "astronomically, it's not much of an event at all."
"The moon gets a little bit closer sometimes, and a little bit farther away," he told the Canadian Press.
"The moon's orbit is not circular, so every month there is a point where it's about 350,000 km away and at other times its about 400,000 km away."
Attwood believes that media is largely responsible for hyping up lunar events with catchy names such as supermoon, blue moon and last year's super blood moon (a supermoon combined with an eclipse).
He says the only positive is that supermoons can get people out looking at the moon which still seems to hold some earthlings in its thrall.
Photo: The Canadian Press
Igor Dodon, pro-Moscow candidate for president, had about 56 per cent of the vote in Moldova's election Sunday, with nearly 90 per cent of the vote counted.
Dodon has promised to restore ties with Moscow and he spoke in Russian in comments after the polls closed. His rival Maia Sandu, an ex-World Bank official who ran on an anti-corruption ticket, was polling 44 per cent.
Dodon has tapped into popular anger with corruption under the pro-European government that came to power in 2009, particularly over the approximately $1 billion that went missing from Moldovan banks before the 2014 parliamentary elections.
As results came in, Dodon urged Moldovans to be calm.
"We don't need destabilization and we don't need confrontation, which somebody is trying to do," he said, speaking in Russian. "We're all living in one country, in Moldova. The next president should find this balance."
Dodon's rival, Maia Sandu, an ex-World Bank economist who ran on an anti-corruption ticket, needed a high turnout to stand a chance of winning. The final turnout was 53.3 per cent, more than 4 percentage points higher than in the first round but a discouraging result for Sandu.
In an unusual development, 9,000 voted in the separatist region of Trans-Dniester, where residents usually do not vote in Moldovan elections.
Mouldovans lined up for hours to vote in Paris, Milan, Dublin and the London borough of Stratford, where about 700 Moldovans were unable to cast ballots. Election authorities said ballots had run out in Stratford, Bucharest, Moscow and Bologna, Italy. One electoral official in Chisinau, Sergiu Gurduza, apologized that some Moldovans had not been able to vote.
Sandu called for the resignation of authorities organizing the vote and said the elections had been badly organized.
If elected, she had pledged to appoint "honest, righteous people and good professionals ... this will be the first signal that things change for the better in Moldova."
The former education minister, who heads the Action and Solidarity Party, says the former Soviet republic will have a more prosperous future in the EU.
Dodon, who nearly won the election in the first round two weeks ago and led in recent polls, has promised to restore friendly relations with Moscow. He also has pledged to seek good relations with Moldova's neighbours, Romania and Ukraine.
He has been criticized in Ukraine for saying Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, is Russian territory. Russia punished Moldova with a trade embargo on wine, fruit and vegetables after it signed a trade association deal with the EU in 2014.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. A man has set off in a bid to set the first official world record for swimming across the Atlantic Ocean, BBC reported.
Ben Hooper started his 2,000-mile (3,200 km) swim from Dakar harbour in Senegal, west Africa.
Mr Hooper's four-month attempt is due to end in Natal in north-east Brazil, next March.
The 38-year-old long-distance swimmer from Cheltenham is hoping his sponsored Swim The Big Blue challenge will raise 1m for charity.
Other people have attempted the swim, but were not ratified by Guinness World Records.
Mr Hooper said he faces hazards such as storms and ocean predators.
"The idea is to get across safely and I think my only real fear is if something goes mechanically wrong with me.
"Beyond that I am not too worried about marine life. I am going into their world, so I need to be respectful," he said.
"I've already met sharks and jellyfish and nothing has eaten me yet."
Mr Hooper is swimming freestyle front crawl for up to 12 hours a day, and will have to eat 12,000 calories a day to maintain his strength.
He is accompanied by two support boats. The crews include a medic, body therapist and an official observer who will be reporting back to Guinness.
Nigel Taylor-Schofield, captain of one of the support vessels, said before the swim: "There are not many 'firsts' left in this world and I am looking forward to helping Ben join that exclusive and elusive club."
Mr Hooper has completed 12 million metres (7,456 miles) of ocean and pool swimming in preparation.
Photo: The Canadian Press
Less insouciant, more policed France is a changed place since Islamic State extremists killed 130 people in the country's deadliest attacks a year ago. Fearing it's becoming more divided, too, survivors and victims' families marked Sunday's anniversary of the violence by pleading for national unity instead.
Tourism is hurting, armed forces roam streets and France is still under a state of emergency that rights groups call abusive and ineffective and that the prime minister now says may be extended yet again.
"We always have this fear that weighs heavily in our hearts. We always try to be careful. And every time we pass by here, we think of them," said Sabrina Nedjadi, paying respects Sunday at two cafes in her diverse eastern Paris neighbourhood targeted in the attacks.
At midday, hundreds of balloons were released to honour the memories of the victims; at dusk, paper lanterns were released into the Canal Saint Martin, bearing red, white and blue lights representing the French tricolour. Onlookers, including many families with children, lined the canal and surrounding bridges, watching silently as the lanterns drifted.
Some fear that France itself is adrift, its government unable to defeat the amorphous extremist enemy even as authorities encroach on liberties the French hold dear.
While French warplanes are targeting IS strongholds in Iraq and Syria, the state of emergency at home allows broadened police powers to search homes and monitor communications. But it could not prevent further attacks on France over the past year, including a truck rampage in Nice by a man claiming allegiance to IS. "Yes, terrorism will strike us again," Prime Minister Manuel Valls warned this weekend
The International Federation for Human Rights warned in a recent report: "France is now in a situation where an 'exceptional' regime is becoming permanent, in the name of combating terrorism. But there is little evidence that this approach is working and it comes at a cost to fundamental rights."
As silence descended Sunday on Paris for a series of commemorations, the son of the first victim of the attacks spoke out for tolerance in the face of hate.
Manuel Dias, an immigrant from Portugal, was killed by a suicide bomber outside the national stadium during an international match Nov. 13, 2015.
Photo: The Canadian Press/HO-Peace by Chocolate
A Syrian refugee family who built a chocolate business in Nova Scotia had their product sampled by a special sweet-toothed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Tareq Hadhad and his father, Issam, had an unexpected meet-and-greet with Trudeau during his trip to Sydney, N.S., last week.
A video of Thursday's encounter shows Trudeau embracing both men and calling the Hadhad family "an extraordinary example of the kind of strength and leadership and engagement that comes with bringing new people to Canada."
"He had been following the story for a while," Tareq Hadhad said Sunday in an interview. "He was so excited. When he came, he knew our names, he hugged us ... It was a very, very special thing for us."
Tareq Hadhad said Peace by Chocolate is struggling to keep up with orders since Trudeau put a spotlight on the Hadhads during a recent address to the United Nations.
Issam Hadhad ran a chocolate factory in Damascus with around 30 employees, according to his son, and shipped sweets to countries all over the Middle East. Tareq Hadhad says several family members fled to Lebanon after a 2012 bombing destroyed the business his father had built over the course of more than two decades.
After three years in a refugee camp, the Hadhads settled in Antigonish in January, where they were greeted by what Trudeau described to foreign leaders as "a bunch of big-hearted Canadians."
Tareq Hadhad agrees with the prime minister's assessment. "We came here with nothing," he said. "We are now in a very welcoming, warm-hearted country and we're so proud to be inspiring others."
With support from residents and various sponspors, the Hadhads opened Peace by Chocolate two months ago and business has been booming ever since, Tareq said.
The aspiring physician said the family wants to give back to the community by hiring locals and the Hadhads have launched a crowdfunding campaign so Peace by Chocolate can expand operations in time for the holiday season.
"The name itself has a very strong message," Tareq Hadhad said. "The world now needs peace, and the world now needs chocolate."
Peace by Chocolate has satisfed at least one sugar craving. The Hadhads gave Trudeau five boxes of maple leaf-shaped chocolates blending Syrian and Canadian flavours for a rich, nutty taste.
Photo: Twitter
The Jamaican bobsled team suffered some hard luck in Calgary on the weekend, but some local businesses and a crowdfunding page have come to their aid.
A group of 12 athletes is travelling through Canada and the U.S. to try and get a spot in the 2018 Winter Games in South Korea.
But while competing at Canada Olympic Park in Calgary on Saturday, the group's van broke down before the they could get to their next stop in Whistler, B.C.
The team was also running low on food and money.
Two businesses, Mobile Data Solutions and Driving Force, have helped supply transportation for the team while a GoFundMe page has been set up to cover other costs of the trip to B.C.
The story of the bobsledders showing up at the 1988 Calgary Games inspired the Disney movie "Cool Runnings."
After competing in Whistler, and if they have enough money, the team will be back in Calgary from Dec. 12 to Jan. 2, before heading to Park City, Utah, and Lake Placid, New York.
Photo: The Canadian Press
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will take an important step Monday toward his ambitious goal of turning Canada into a magnet for foreign investment when he meets with some of the world's most powerful institutional investors with trillions of dollars at their disposal.
Trudeau is hoping to persuade some two dozen representatives of large international pools of capital including central banks, sovereign wealth funds, insurers and pension funds whose combined assets are worth a staggering $21 trillion (Cdn) that Canada offers a stable economic and political environment in which to safely invest.
He will be accompanied by nine members of cabinet, including Finance Minister Bill Morneau, Infrastructure Minister Amarjeet Sohi, Transport Minister Marc Garneau, and Health Minister Jane Philpott. Trudeau and four of the ministers also set to make their pitch to about a dozen Canadian investors insurance companies and big pension funds like the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board in the morning before meeting with the international investors in the afternoon.
Attracting billions in private-sector capital for "transformative" infrastructure projects is key to the Liberal government's long-term strategy to boost Canada's sluggish economic growth.
Monday's investors' summit comes just two weeks after Morneau announced plans to launch a new infrastructure bank next year. The government has pledged to pump $35 billion into the bank over the coming decade, in hopes that every dollar of federal cash will leverage $4-5 in private funding.
The creation of the bank is a key part of the pitch to investors, offering them sophisticated and varied investment tools that incorporate government financing.
"There is an enormous amount of interest in making infrastructure investments," Morneau said in a recent interview.
"There is a particular interest in making them in a country like ours with our stable economy, with our stable political system. So I think that there will be more than enough partners for us to find opportunities that make sense for us and for them."
In addition to the infrastructure bank, the government also intends to create a new Invest in Canada Hub for attracting foreign investment; and it plans to relax some restrictions on foreign investment.
The summit is being hosted by the federal government but it has engaged BlackRock Inc., the world's largest asset manager, to organize the event. BlackRock's legendary founder, Laurence Fink, is to be among the participants in the summit.
It's likely no coincidence that Trudeau met with Fink in January at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, and again in New York City in March. During a photo op at the latter meeting, Fink was heard telling Trudeau that there was "a lot of confusion in this country in investing" an apparent reference to uncertainty induced by the deeply divisive U.S. presidential election campaign which creates "probably even greater opportunities in the stable environment of Canada."
Americans' stunning choice last week of the bombastic, protectionist, unpredictable Donald Trump may only magnify the appeal of Canada's comparative stability. One insider allows that "it may shift the discussion a little" at the investors' summit.
Photo: The Canadian Press - File photo A Kermode bear in the Great Bear Rainforest.
Christy Clark will be joining royalty for an official function on Nov. 15 at Buckingham Palace, marking the first time a premier has visited the residence of the Queen in over 40 years.
The palace will be hosting The Queen's Commonwealth Canopy Initiative recognition ceremony, which will highlight the provincial government's work with First Nations, environmental groups and forest companies to balance environmental and economic aspects of the Great Bear Rainforest.
"It is an honour to represent British Columbia at Buckingham Palace and receive this latest award for the achievements in the Great Bear Rainforest," Clark said in a news release. "Many people worked for many years to save this special place for future generations we consider it our gift to the world."
While in London, Clark will also be attending meetings at Canada House, along with Canada's High Commissioner to the U.K., business leaders and key investors with interests in B.C.
A central theme to the discussions will be B.C.'s post-Brexit trade with the U.K. and Europe.
The B.C. government will also be creating a $1-million Great Bear Rain Forest Education and Awareness Trust, which will support several aspects of education on the 6.4-million-hectare rainforest on B.C.'s northern coast.
That includes developing teacher and student resources centred on the Great Bear Rainforest, which is aligned with B.C.'s new curriculum and raising public awareness of the rainforest and the people who have lived in the area for over 12,000 years.
The money will also go to resources management practices and to support research in the area and investing in resource management education, specifically regarding the Great Bear Rainforest.
The Commonwealth Canopy was launched in 2015 with the goal of uniting the 53 Commonwealth nations to conserve forests for future generations.
Photo: Twitter - Steve Darling Steve Darling, left.
Former Global News anchor Steve Darling will be a BC Liberal Party candidate in the provincial election in 2017.
The party announced on Sunday Darling will be running with the party in the Burnaby-Lougheed riding in the election, which is set to take place in May.
I am honoured to be running for the BC Liberals in the riding of Burnaby-Lougheed. Its an exciting time for me, my family, and our province as well, Darling said in an announcement in Burnaby.
For the past 18 years I have gone to work in Burnaby telling stories that matter. Now, Im looking forward to fighting for the priorities that matter, such as good jobs, a strong economy, and world-class services for young families like my own."
Darling hosted Global BC's Morning News for nearly two decades, and is known as an advocate for charitable causes, attending up to 60 events a year supporting BC Childrens Hospital, Variety the Childrens Charity, ALS Society of BC, and Ronald McDonald House, according to the BC Liberals announcement.
Premier Christy Clark, who joined Darling in Burnaby to announce his candidacy, echoed Darling's experience in the news industry.
Now, hes stepping up and fighting for the values that built this province, because hes seen how important they are for himself," Clark said.
We have a plan to put British Columbians first thats working and its qualified candidates like Steve who believe in this plan, and who will work hard to make sure that we can continue to look after the people we love."
Darling joins 62 other candidates already selected to run in the May 9 election, including two others running in Burnaby.
There are a total of 85 ridings in B.C.
Photo: The Canadian Press - File photo
At least 11 children were among 23 people killed Sunday in northern Syria as pro-government forces kept up their campaign against opposition areas in the country's north, while rebels shelled a government-held district in Aleppo city.
At least eight more people were killed in a suspected airstrike on a crossing point connecting Kurdish-held areas with rebel areas in northern Aleppo province, the Kurdish security force said.
The violence Sunday comes a day after government troops repelled a rebel offensive on western parts of Aleppo city launched in late October. State news agency SANA said the shelling of a western Aleppo district killed four people, including two women and a child.
Aleppo has been deeply divided since 2012. The faltering rebel offensive was designed to break the siege on the opposition-held eastern Aleppo.
The government siege has left an estimated 275,000 people trapped with no aid allowed in since July, amid a punishing bombing campaign. The rebel offensive started after Russia, a major Syrian government ally, said it would halt airstrikes to allow rebels and supporters to leave eastern Aleppo. The rebels refused to take up the offer and the United Nations failed to negotiate allowing aid into the besieged area, amid wide anticipation of an imminent pro-government offensive.
Residents of eastern Aleppo said Sunday that for days they have received text messages urging them to leave in the next 24 hours. It was not possible to immediately verify the authenticity of the messages or who sent them. Government aircraft had previously dropped fliers on the eastern districts also urging residents to leave and make use of the Russian-declared passageways to evacuate the besieged district.
Three residents said they received the messages Friday and Sunday throughout the day, denouncing the opposition and threatening residents with an attack.
As of Sunday evening, Syrian Civil Defence's Ibrahim al-Haj said government artillery shelling in the al-Salheen neighbourhood of besieged eastern Aleppo killed a mother, her four children and her husband travelling in a car. Other shelling killed a child, a woman and three men in two different neighbourhoods of the besieged territory, al-Haj said.
While airstrikes on eastern Aleppo city have subsided, aerial bombings of rebel-held western parts of Aleppo province continued. The Syrian Civil Defence, which operates in opposition-held areas, said one of its centres was bombed in rural Aleppo and put out of service in airstrikes on the town of Atareb. The strikes also killed three people, including two children.
Meanwhile, a suspected airstrike is believed to have struck at a border crossing in Kurdish-held Afrin canton, which links the area to rebel-held parts of Aleppo province, the Kurdish security force, known as the Asayish, said Sunday. The Asayish statement, carried by the Kurdish news agency Hawar, said the bombing occurred early Sunday on a crossing used by as many as 5,000 people moving from western rural Aleppo to its north and east, mostly opposition areas. The Observatory put the death toll from the explosion there at 12. It didn't say whether it was an airstrike or an explosion.
In the complex terrain of northern Syria, it was not immediately clear who was behind the bombing.
Photo: Surrey RCMP
The Surrey RCMP is asking for the public's help in finding a woman reported missing.
Kathryn Cruickshank, 31, has been reported missing by her family, who last saw her around the end of August 2016, in Surrey.
Cruickshank is described as a caucasian woman at about five feet seven inches, 160 pounds with brown hair and green eyes.
She has previously gone extended periods of time without contact with her family, this most recent period is longer than usual according to RCMP
Cruickshank has been known to frequent the Downtown East Side of Vancouver and the Whalley area of Surrey in the past.
Anyone with information about Cruickshank's whereabouts or who has seen her is asked to call their local police, the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or Crime Stoppers.
Photo: Dustin Godfrey
The City of Penticton is offering unlimited yard waste pickup for a pair of weeks to help with the piles of leaves from yard cleanup.
On top of the new yard waste bins, residents can put out extra bags or bins clearly labeled "Yard Waste" for pickup by the city.
That will take place during the week of Nov. 14 and the week of Dec. 12.
During the unlimited yard waste collection period the city is asking residents to:
Place yard waste at the curb by 7:00 am on your regular garbage day.
Additional yard waste can be placed in kraft paper bags and reusable containers marked as yard waste.
Bundle branches using string or twine, and ensure the prunings are no more than three feet in length, three inches in diameter and 50 pounds in weight.
Please leave your yard waste at the curb, as a second truck will be coming by to pick up the additional yard waste.
Please leave a 3ft/1m space between carts and additional yard waste.
Plastic bags will not be accepted.
For more information, call 250-490-2500 or visit the city's website.
Photo: The Canadian Press
In the year of the outsider, Reince Priebus was the face of the Republican establishment.
Yet the Republican National Committee chairman would come to earn the trust and confidence of President-elect Donald Trump, who on Sunday named Priebus as his chief of staff, along with flame-throwing media executive Stephen Bannon as his chief strategist.
The position puts Priebus at the power centre of the new Trump administration. The 44-year-old Wisconsin political operative will help guard access to the president-elect, guide policy and political decisions, and if past practice holds true, will often be, along with Bannon, the last person Trump consults before making major decisions.
Priebus has no governing experience in Washington.
Yet his extraordinary ability to build and maintain relationships with his party's power brokers and grassroots sets him apart from other prospective chiefs of staff. The affable and slow-talking Priebus maintains a particularly close relationship with House Speaker Paul Ryan, who is also from Wisconsin. At the same time, Priebus may have been almost as popular among the Republican National Committee's 168 members, who represent many different factions of the GOP and come from every state in the nation.
Trump's new chief of staff and the House speaker met in the late 1990s when Priebus was a party activist in Kenosha County, Wisconsin, and Ryan was running for Congress. Priebus eventually became the party chairman of Kenosha County, the First District (the speaker's district) and then Wisconsin party chairman. He's been a friend and adviser to Ryan all these many years.
Priebus was already the longest serving chairman in party history, having worked in that role since January 2011, but he easily could have been re-elected early next year had he wanted to seek another term.
More than anything, he served as the chief fundraiser for the Republican National Committee, a job he did very well. He used the tens of millions of dollars he helped raise to create a nationwide voter outreach operation that fueled Trump's stunning victory.
Still, his status as a party insider caught the attention of Trump supporters such as tea party leader Jenny Beth Martin. She warned on Saturday that, "No Washington insider, regardless of who it is, should serve as President Trump's chief of staff."
"It's time to drain the swamp not promote insiders beholden to the Washington establishment who helped create it," she said.
Priebus' ability to earn Trump's trust and confidence ultimately outweighed any political concerns.
He was perhaps the only major establishment leader to stand with Trump over the campaign's final weeks as much of the political world predicted the Republican nominee would lose the election. Priebus became Trump's regular travelling companion and confidant. He was optimistic until the very end.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. Germany will provide 1 million Euros to Armenia for the program of de-commissioning (destroying) outdated armored vehicles.
Mher Israyelyan, deputy head of the defense policy department of the defense ministry says the program has been approved recently in Brussels.
Initial preparatory works will be carried out until the end of 2016, followed by the launch of the program, he said.
According to German Ambassador to Armenia H.E. Matthias Kiesler, this is a very important program, which will assist Armenia in implementing its assumed responsibilities within the framework of Europes Conventional arms agreement.
We are working hard to create that Trust Fund, with the purpose of assisting Armenia in destroying de-commissioned armored vehicles, he said.
Photo: Contributed
A katana sword is missing from an Alaska card shop after a burglar in a ninja outfit broke in.
KTVA-TV reports security cameras filmed the costumed suspect entering the Anchorage business sometime after it closed Friday and leaving with what looked to be the Japanese-style, curved sword.
Spenard Bosco's employee Erich Helmick said inventory is being checked but that so far it seems the sword is the only item missing.
Helmick said the Anchorage Police Department responded to the incident and a report has been filed.
Anyone with information is asked to call police.
Photo: The Canadian Press - File photo
Final preparations are underway to lift a sunken tug from the waters off British Columbia's central coast.
The latest incident report says crews are planning to lift the Nathan E. Stewart from the ocean floor overnight Sunday, if the weather permits.
Once lifted, the 30-metre tug will be placed on a salvage barge and towed from the area.
The vessel ran aground and sank about 28 kilometres from Bella Bella, B.C., last month.
Officials have also provided an update on how much fuel was on board when the boat went down, saying in the latest report that it was loaded with 237,262 litres of diesel fuel.
The report says 107,552 litres of fuel and 2,240 litres of lubricants were released into the environment.
Photo: The Canadian Press
Federal Conservative leadership candidate Kellie Leitch says she has been the victim of an apparent break-in attempt at her home in Creemore, Ont.
In a statement Sunday night, Leitch says she was notified by a volunteer in her riding association that someone was purporting to know her address and was offering it up online to anyone who she says was "interested in doing me harm."
Leitch, who has said she shares some ideas on immigration with U.S. president-elect Donald Trump, says the "threatening activity" was reported to Ontario Provincial police on Friday night.
Leitch says her home alarm sounded early Saturday and as she left the house to wait for police she noticed the garage lights were on, but they had been turned off by the time officers arrived, and no intruder was found.
She said the entry closest to the garage was found to have been the trigger for the alarm and the officers speculated that someone trying to gain entry could have set the alarm off.
The Ontario MP attended the luncheon portion of a leadership debate in Greely, Ont., on Sunday but she left before the debate. Spokesman Bradley Breton said Leitch left to meet with a private security consultant.
"My campaign team is taking further steps at my expense to enhance security at my home and on the campaign," Leitch said.
During an exchange Sunday on CTV's Question Period, Ontario MP Michael Chong who also is running for the Conservative leadership suggested Leitch was importing the divisive style practised by Trump.
Leitch, who also has proposed screening newcomers for Canadian values, told Question Period that her enthusiasm for Trump does not make her a racist.
Leitch has attracted headlines and some barbs from other leadership contenders for her immigration screening proposal, which she has yet to flesh out.
"I am not a racist," Leitch said during the CTV segment. "I am not a person who's out groping other individuals. I do not do those things and I don't think that the Canadians who support the ideas I'm talking about do those types of things."
Photo: The Canadian Press
The brightest moon in almost 69 years will be lighting up the sky this week in a treat for star watchers around the globe.
The phenomenon known as the supermoon will reach its most luminescent in North America before dawn on Monday. It will reach its zenith in Asia and the South Pacific on Monday. Across the international dateline in New Zealand, it will reach its brightest after midnight on Tuesday local time.
The moon orbits the Earth in an oval shape. The moon will be at its brightest this week because it is coming closer to the Earth along its elliptical orbit than at any time since January 1948. The supermoon will also bring stronger than usual high tides, followed by plunging low tides the next morning.
Viewers can expect to see a moon about 14 per cent larger in diameter and about 30 per cent brighter than when it's at its furthest from the earth. It won't be as big and bright again for another 18 years.
NASA says its closest approach will occur at 6:21 a.m. EST (1121 GMT) Monday when the moon comes within 221,523 miles (356,508 kilometres). That's from the centre of the Earth to the centre of the moon. Full moon will occur at 8:52 a.m. EST (1352 GMT).
According to the astronomy website earthsky.org, the term supermoon entered usage five years ago when the closest full moon fell on March 19, 2011. The scientific term is perigee full moon.
In 2034, the moon will come even closer, within 221,485 miles. That, too, will be a supermoon.
Photo: The Canadian Press
The mother of a young Coquitlam man who died in a substance-abuse treatment centre says she doubts a third-party investigation into his death will hold anyone to account.
Brandon Jansen, 20, died on March 7 at the Sunshine Coast Health Centre, a privately-run facility in Powell River where he was being treated for his addiction to the opioid fentanyl.
The centre's chief executive Melanie Jordan will be releasing findings from a third-party investigation into his death today in Vancouver.
Brandon's mother, Michelle Jansen, said the centre did not inform her about the announcement and although she doesn't know what will be presented, she says she suspects the centre will try to minimize their involvement in her son's death.
Skeptical of the centre's investigation, Jansen said she is waiting for an inquest by the BC Coroners Service to understand what went wrong leading up to her son's death.
Chief Coroner Lisa Lapointe announced on Nov. 1 that the service would launch an inquest into Brandon's death, which is expected to occur over two weeks in January.
For two years, Brandon had been struggling with an addiction to fentanyl a substance responsible for more than 60 per cent of the 555 overdose-related deaths in B.C. this year.
Jansen said the Sunshine Coast Health Centre was the 11th drug-treatment centre her son attended in an attempt to kick the habit.
Jansen said long wait lists and what she called inadequate treatment options available through publicly-funded facilities forced her to send her son to private programs.
She said the bill for the Sunshine Coast facility was about $40,000 per month. Brandon had been there only three days when he died.
Text messages on Brandon's phone showed he arranged to have a dealer drop off fentanyl to him at the centre in the hours before he overdosed and died alone in his room, Jansen said.
"I put my son there thinking they had the expertise and they could take care of him and keep an eye on him and they didn't, they failed," she said.
Photo: The Canadian Press
The voters who made possible Donald Trump's U.S. presidential victory included people who consider themselves moderates and came around to Trump after supporting other candidates.
Here's a look at some voters who helped usher in a Trump presidency:
In Michigan, Patrick Burke supported Ohio Gov. John Kasich in the GOP primary but "jumped on in full support" of Trump as he bested the field.
The 60-year-old automotive and business consultant lives in suburban Detroit's Macomb County, which was home to the "Reagan Democrats" in the 1980s. In 2012, Obama carried Macomb County by 4 percentage points. Trump enjoyed an 11 point-plus margin there.
Trump stands for "making sure that if you work hard that your government is there to help you rather than hurt you," Burke said, noting that Trump's message "of prosperity and reducing the debt and a strong military and reforming immigration really resonated" with blue-collar workers.
"I like the fact that he's been successful. He has built some incredible things. He has had his failures but he's had huge successes," Burke said. "I think that Trump has the vision that we need to have now to get us pointed back in the right direction."
Iraq War veteran Rebecca Zbichorski, 28, of Milwaukee, is a first-time voter who supported Trump because "America needs a kick in the behind."
A factory worker who gets her health care through the Veterans Health Administration, Zbichorski enlisted in the military at 18 and served nearly eight years as a Marine. She said she sees Trump as a "regular type of guy" who doesn't care what anyone thinks, which made him the best candidate to give U.S. government the "shake-up" she thinks it needs.
"He's the slap in the face. He's the wakeup call," Zbichorski said. "Let the man do what he's got to do."
Eileen Barlow, a 56-year-old small business owner and part-time bartender, voted for Trump because he's a businessman and not a politician. He's also not a Clinton.
"My grandfather always said that what we need is a businessman in the presidential office, and that's what Donald Trump is," Barlow said as she stood behind the bar at the local American Legion post in the Chicago suburb of Naperville, Illinois.
At Anthony's Barber Shop in Middletown Township, Pennsylvania, owner Anthony Canamucio's customers range from doctors to lawyers to retired steel mill guys of all races. Most of them, like Canamucio himself, voted for Trump.
"We were sick and tired of elitist and career politicians," he said.
Trump "spoke like people speak here when they're in my barber chair" and had positions on issues that the 50-year-old barber said mirror most of "middle America."
Photo: The Canadian Press A woman cools herself on a hot summer day in Hyderabad, India.
The U.N. weather agency says 2016 is set to break the record for the hottest year since measurements began in the 19th century.
The World Meteorological Organization said Monday that preliminary data through October shows global average temperatures this year are 1.2 C above pre-industrial levels.
That's getting close to the limit set by the global climate agreement adopted in Paris last year. It calls for limiting the temperature rise since the industrial revolution to 2 degrees or even 1.5.
This year's temperatures were boosted by the El Nino weather event.
The previous hottest year was 2015. WMO said 16 of the 17 hottest years have occurred this century, with the only exception being 1998, which was also an El Nino year.
Photo: The Canadian Press A freight train is seen trapped by landslides following an earthquake in the area north of Kaikoura, New Zealand.
New Zealand is planning to send in military helicopters and a navy ship to rescue about 1,000 tourists and hundreds of residents who remain stranded in the coastal town of Kaikoura after a powerful earthquake on Monday cut off train and vehicle access.
The magnitude-7.8 quake struck the South Island just after midnight. It left two people dead and triggered a small tsunami. It also brought down rocks and mud that swept across highways and cracked apart roads.
Home to about 2,000 residents, Kaikoura is a popular destination for travellers taking part in whale-watching expeditions or wanting a stopover with mountain views. But the quake knocked out water supplies and sewerage systems and left people with no easy way out.
"From all directions, Kaikoura has essentially been isolated," Air Commodore Darryn Webb, the Acting Commander of New Zealand's Joint Forces, told The Associated Press. "There's a real imperative to support the town because it can't support itself."
Webb said the military planned to begin using four NH90 helicopters on Tuesday that could each transport about 18 people out of the town at a time. He said a ship was also leaving Auckland on Monday night that could potentially pick up hundreds of people if weather conditions allowed.
"We're going to get as many people and belongings out as quickly as we can," Webb said.
He said the weather forecast wasn't looking great and the operation could take several days. He said that if needed, a C-130 military transport plane could drop fuel, water, food and other supplies to the town.
Elsewhere, strong aftershocks continued to shake New Zealand on Monday, rattling the nerves of exhausted residents.
Monday's quake caused damage in Wellington, the capital, and was also strongly felt in Christchurch. Residents said the shaking went on for about three minutes.
Police said one person died in Kaikoura and another in Mt. Lyford, a nearby ski resort. Several other people suffered minor injuries in Kaikoura, police spokeswoman Rachel Purdom said.
Prime Minister John Key flew over the destruction in Kaikoura by helicopter as aftershocks kicked up dust from the landslides below. Cars could be seen lying on their sides and parts of the road were clearly impassable.
"It's just utter devastation," Key said.
The quake temporarily knocked out New Zealand's emergency call number, 111. In Wellington, it collapsed a ferry loading ramp, broke windows and caused items to fall from shelves. It also forced hundreds of tourists onto the streets as hotels were evacuated.
Authorities in Wellington told people who work in the city's central business district to stay home on Monday. Officials said some large buildings were showing signs of structural stress. The city's suburban rail network was shut while crews checked tracks, bridges and tunnels.
Photo: The Canadian Press Bulgarian Socialists Party candidate Rumen Radev
Bulgaria's prime minister handed in his resignation to parliament Monday after results showed his party losing badly in the presidential runoff, opening the way for an early parliamentary election.
Boiko Borisov's move comes after official results show Socialist-backed candidate Rumen Radev, a former non-partisan air force chief, winning the presidential election.
"We accept the will of the people and we congratulate those who have the support of the majority of the voters," said Borisov, whose party had previously triumphed in all national elections over the last decade.
Halfway into its four-year term, Borisov's coalition government has managed to restore political stability after months of anti-corruption protests. But its popularity has faded because of the slow pace of reforms to eliminate graft and poverty, and overhaul the judicial system.
Radev called the result "a negative vote for the government that leads to a new political situation."
Borisov's resignation would likely lead to months of difficult coalition talks among several political groupings and an early election as soon as April.
The Central Election Commission said that with 99.3 per cent of the ballots counted, Radev won 59.4 per cent of the vote in Sunday's runoff, compared with 36.2 per cent for the candidate of the ruling centre-right party, Tsetska Tsacheva.
A political novice, Radev attracted many Bulgarians who are fed up with corrupt politicians. The former NATO fighter pilot, who once studied at the U.S. Air War College in Alabama, has pledged to maintain Bulgaria's place in NATO but also says "being pro-European doesn't mean being anti-Russian."
Photo: The Canadian Press
Donald Trump has sat down for his first interviews since becoming U.S. president-elect, has shared his views on his state of mind since the stunning victory, and made announcements on his plans for the country.
Here are top developments from recent days:
Deportations. An estimated 11 million undocumented people live in the U.S. Trump suggested he will deport many, but not most. In his ''60 Minutes'' interview, Trump referred to the people he wants to deport as gang members and drug dealers: ''(It's) probably two million, it could be even three million.'' Criminals are already a deportation priority under the current government more than 2.5 million have actually been deported over the Obama years. Trump said he'll make a decision later about the rest, whom he called, ''terrific people.''
Urges people to stop harassing minorities. When asked on CBS's ''60 Minutes'' about anecdotes of his supporters insulting minorities, he turned to the camera and spoke directly to viewers: ''I am so saddened to hear that. And I say, 'Stop it.' If it helps, I will say right to the cameras: Stop it.''
Legislative priorities. He met last week with the Republicans who lead Congress. He told, ''60 Minutes,'' that he walked away with three legislative priorities: Health care, immigration, and tax cuts.
Forgoes salary. The billionaire says he doesn't even know how much a president earns. He says he'd have to accept a salary of $1 per year, for legal reasons, but will refuse the rest of the US$400,000-a-year pay.
Moral issues: Has no plan to fight same-sex marriage. Trump told ''60 Minutes,'' speaking about that issue: ''It's done.'' But he says he will push back against abortion, as he promised religious conservatives during the primaries. Trump says he'd appoint pro-life judges, and if they overturn the Roe v. Wade decision, he assumes some states would allow abortion and others wouldn't.
Obamacare. During the campaign, he promised to scrap President Barack Obama's signature health law. He's now talking like he wants to build on it. After meeting with the outgoing president, he told The Wall Street Journal that he agrees with two key provisions of the law, related to coverage for children and for people with pre-existing conditions: ''I like those very much.''
White House hires. He's hired two top White House staffers. One is uncontroversial, the other more so. His chief of staff will be Republican party chair Reince Priebus. It's his senior strategist who's raising eyebrows: Steve Bannon, the former head of Breitbart News.
Kind words for Obama. ''I found him to be terrific. I found him to be very smart and very nice. Great sense of humour,'' he told ''60 Minutes.''
Kind words for Clinton. He said he got a lovely phone call from his opponent Hillary Clinton, and from her husband Bill. He appeared to demur from his campaign threat to appoint a special prosecutor to investigate her. ''I don't want to hurt them. I don't want to hurt them. They're good people.''
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. The Foreign Ministers of the EU member states have stressed the issue of abolishing visa regime for the citizens of Georgia and Ukraine, as well as the issue of visa liberalization with Armenia, Armenpress reports the conclusion of the meeting of the foreign ministers of the EU member states reads.
The Council stresses the importance of taking necessary decisions for liberalization of visa regime with Georgia and Ukraine, reads the document. The European ministers also stated that they are waiting for an opportunity to start negotiations on visa issues with Armenia in a timely period.
The Council of the European Union has already granted the European Commission a mandate to hold talks on short-term visa abolition with Georgia and Ukraine. Earlier, the European Parliament had done the same.
Photo: The Canadian Press
A sunken tug on British Columbia's central coast could finally be lifted from the waters west of Bella Bella.
An incident report issued Sunday by the tug's owner and provincial, federal and First Nations experts estimated the Nathan E. Stewart could be removed from Seaforth Channel early Monday, weather permitting.
An advisory released from the Heiltsuk Nation says salvage operations are slated to begin at 10 a.m. local time, and take about six hours.
Crews have dragged the 30-metre tug into deeper water from the reef where it ran aground Oct. 13, and a large crane will be used to lift the vessel onto a barge for removal from the area.
Experts also say they have completed calculations of the amount of fuel spilled when the tug went down.
According to the latest report, the Nathan E. Stewart was loaded with 237,262 litres of diesel fuel when it hit the reef, spilling 107,552 litres of fuel and 2,240 litres of lubricants.
Photo: CTV
UPDATE: 11:50 a.m.
Police say two people of interest have been arrested after a woman was shot in the back of a cab.
The 29-year-old passenger in the taxi is recovering from what are described as non-life-threatening injuries.
Police have not said if the woman was targeted or what may have led to the shooting.
Officers with the city's major crime section are handling the case and have not said what led them to the pair currently in custody.
ORIGINAL: 8 a.m.
Vancouver's Gastown neighbourhood is swarming with police this morning after a woman was reportedly shot inside a taxi cab.
Police shut down a stretch of Abbott Street early Monday morning after shots rang out.
CTV Vancouver reports investigators were combing the roadway near Pender Street with flashlights and a man was under arrest after the back window of a Vancouver Taxi was shot out.
"It was like a big 12-gauge going off, it was a gun of some sort," a nearby resident Kelvin Bee told CTV.
The cab driver told CTV he had a female passenger in the taxi, but he was too shaken up to be interviewed.
The Vancouver Police Department is investigating a shooting at Abbott and West Pender Street, said Const. Jason Doucette.
A woman was shot just before 5 a.m. this morning and was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Vehicle traffic is asked to avoid the area and police say additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
-with files from CTV Vancouver
Photo: The Canadian Press Stephen Bannon, campaign CEO for President-elect Donald Trump, leaves Trump Tower in New York.
President-elect Donald Trump is considering a woman and an openly gay man to fill major positions in his administration, history-making moves that would inject diversity into a Trump team.
The incoming president is considering Richard Grenell as United States ambassador to the United Nations. If picked and ultimately confirmed by the Senate, he would be the first openly gay person to fill a Cabinet-level foreign policy post. Grenell previously served as U.S. spokesman at the UN under former President George W. Bush's administration.
At the same time, Trump is weighing whether to select the first woman to serve as chairman of the Republican National Committee. On his short list of prospective chairs: Michigan GOP chairwoman Ronna Romney McDaniel, the former sister-in-law of Trump critic and 2012 presidential nominee Mitt Romney.
"I'll be interested in whatever Mr. Trump wants," McDaniel told The Associated Press on Monday, adding that she was planning to seek the Michigan GOP chairmanship again.
Appointing a woman to the top tier of his team and the first female GOP chief would appear to be an effort to begin to mend ties with women, who he antagonized frequently during the campaign. The appointment of Grenell could begin to ease concerns by the gay community about Vice-President-elect Mike Pence's positions on same-sex marriage during his time as Indiana governor.
The personnel moves under consideration were confirmed by people with direct knowledge of Trump's thinking who were not authorized to publicly disclose private discussions. They stressed that the decisions are not final.
Internal deliberations about staffing come a day after Trump made overtures to warring Republican circles by appointing RNC Chairman Reince Priebus as his White House chief of staff and Breitbart News executive Stephen Bannon as chief strategist and senior counsellor.
The two men had made up the president-elect's chief of staff shortlist, and while Priebus received that job, Bannon is expected to wield significant clout. Trump gave top billing to the former media executive, who led a website that appealed to the so-called "alt-right" a movement often associated with efforts on the far right to preserve "white identity," oppose multiculturalism and defend "Western values."
Priebus on Monday defended the media mogul, saying the two made an effective pair as they steered Trump past Democrat Hillary Clinton and toward the presidency. He sought to distance Bannon from the incendiary headlines on his website, saying they were written by unspecified others.
"Together, we've been able to manage a lot of the decision making in regard to the campaign," Priebus told NBC's "Today." ''It's worked very, very well."
Trump's hires were, at first glance, contradictory, though they fit a pattern of the celebrity businessman creating a veritable Rorschach test that allowed his supporters to see what they wanted. Priebus, who lashed the RNC to Trump this summer despite some intraparty objections, is a GOP operative with deep expertise of the Washington establishment that Trump has vowed to shake up. He has close ties to House Speaker Paul Ryan, a fellow Wisconsinite.
Photo: pixabay
The Ministry of Transportation is hosting an open house on Nov. 21 about highway improvements in the District of Peachland.
At this summer's first session, findings from the initial fact-finding stage of the study were presented. On Monday, several options to improve the existing corridor or plans for a new route will be made public. The province says they will be taking any public feedback into account when developing the final plan.
The Ministry of Transportation and District of Peachland will also be sharing the findings of the Peachland Speed & Safety Study, which deals with more immediate concerns related to intersection safety and highway speeds in Peachland.
The open house will be running from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday Nov. 21 at the Peachland Community Centre, 4450 6th St.
Photo: Google Street View
An employee of a local money store is facing criminal charges after allegedly faking an armed robbery.
On Nov. 10, RCMP were called to Vernon Cash Solutions on 26th Avenue following a report that the store was held up at gun point.
Const. Jocelyn Noseworthy said a police investigation has determined the store was not robbed and the female employee who made the claim is now facing charges.
RCMP are recommending charges of public mischief and theft under $5,000, said Noseworthy, adding the 39-year-old woman took an undetermined amount of cash and reported it stolen.
Noseworthy said good old fashioned police work and the store's video surveillance led to charges being recommended against the unidentified woman.
Photo: Contributed
The Columbia Basin Trust, an organization that pumps tens of millions of dollars a year into the Kootenay economy, has lost its top executive.
The Basin announced Sunday that Neil Muth, the CBTs President and CEO, died earlier in the week.
No details were released on his cause of death.
"It is with heavy hearts that the family of Neil Muth, his loving wife Cathy, and his three children in conjunction with the Columbia Basin Trust announce his sudden passing," said CBT Communications Director Delphi Hoodicoff in a written statement. "He will be remembered first and foremost as a loving husband and father."
Muth has run the Trust since 2005. Born and raised in Trail, he was also a former vice-president of the BC Investment Management Corporation, and held various positions in the financial ministries of the B.C. and New Zealand governments. He also operated his own consulting company for many years.
The Trust distributed more than $30 million this year to various arts, historical and community development projects in the Columbia Basin in 2016. The Trust was set up to compensate people living in the area for environmental and economic damage caused by the construction of three control and power dams along the Columbia River drainage system. The Trust earned revenues of $48 million dollars in 2015/16, compared to $29 million the previous year.
Trust officials say theyll make a more complete statement in a few days.
Photo: Contributed Const. Jocelyn Noseworthy
Reports of property crime are on the rise in Vernon, but a couple recent thefts have police scratching their heads.
Police are searching for a suspect with good dental hygiene after a break in to the 27th Street Shoppers Drug Mart.
Const. Jocelyn Noseworthy said at 3:30 a.m. Nov. 8 the store alarm was activated when someone broke the front window.
The suspect(s) then made off with several high-end electric toothbrushes.
No other items were stolen.
In another case from the weird files, sometime between Oct. 29 and Nov. 8 a travel trailer was broken in to on the 6700 block of Dixon Dam Road and a Chariot Cougar II stroller and a CCM North Ridge mountain bike were stolen.
The stroller, however, was missing the front wheels, handlebar and rain cover.
Police are investigating both incidences and anyone with information is asked to call police 250-545-7171 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Photo: CTV
The BC Coroners Service has named the 38-year-old Vancouver man who was shot and killed by police last week during an incident at a Canadian Tire store.
Daniel Peter Rintoul has been identified as the knife-wielding man who allegedly tried to rob the store at 2830 Bentall St. The incident saw a store employee suffer a knife wound, and in an ensuing interaction with officers, Rintoul was shot.
He was pronounced dead at the scene.
CTV is reporting the suspect, who was 6-foot-1 and 380 pounds, held an 82-year-old man hostage during the incident.
The BC Coroners Service and the Independent Investigations Office continue to investigate the death.
with files from CTV Vancouver
Photo: Contributed
Vernon RCMP have made an arrest in a robbery that netted the thief electronic and camera equipment.
Const. Jocelyn Noseworthy said on Nov. 9 at approximately 11:40 a.m., a residence in the 7300 block of Longacre Drive in Vernon was broken into by smashing a window.
A significant amount of electronic and camera equipment was stolen from the residence, said Noseworthy.
Investigation led to the arrest of a 37-year-old Vernon man on Nov. 10.
Police have recommended a charge of break and enter, said Noseworthy, adding the suspect was caught using good, old fashion police work and surveillance video from the home.
The unidentified suspect is known to police.
Noseworthy said police are investigating the possibility the man was involved in other crimes.
We have not connected him to other break-ins yet, said Noseworthy.
Photo: Facebook
Enderby RCMP were kept busy over the long weekend, responding to a break-in and the theft of a trailer.
On Nov. 11 at approximately 3:40 a.m., police were informed of a break and enter to Grant's Tackle Box on George Street in Enderby.
An unknown person pried the door to the business open and stole a tower computer and a Toshiba laptop computer, said Const. Jocelyn Noseworthy.
Then on Nov. 12, a grey 7x16 enclosed U-Built trailer was stolen from Bass Avenue in Enderby.
The trailer had an Ontario licence plate N5881T. Numerous tools and a generator were inside, said Noseworthy.
Anyone with information is asked to call Enderby RCMP at 250-838-6818 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. The Republican Party of Armenia (RPA) highly assesses the idea of creating a special fund (formed by 1000 AMD allocations by each employed Armenian citizen) for compensating the families of servicemen killed or injured in combat operations, RPA spokesperson, Vice President of the National Assembly of Armenia Eduard Sharmazanov told the reporters after the Executive Body meeting of the party. We highly assess that initiative. It pursues a goal of preaching solidarity among our citizens and is aimed at developing the idea of a nation-army, Armenpress reports Sharmazanov saying.
He added that it is a very important initiative and our daily problems should not have a role here. All of us must participate in the task of reinforcing our security, he said. Referring to public concerns of possible misuse of the fund, Sharmzanov noted, The Defense Minister also referred to that issue today saying that the fund will be maximally transparent. He also announced about the readiness to allocate two of the three governmental mandates for the Board of Trustees to opposition partners, so as the public and opposition have no more concerns.
Referring to the opinions that it is necessary to fight the shadow economy and corruption and allocate the sums generated from it to the fund, Sharmazanov said, Yes, it is necessary to fight shadow economy and corruption, but at the same time each citizen must participate in national affairs. He also quoted Napoleon as saying Who does not want to keep and take care of his own army, he will have to keep and feed a foreign army.
To the question if this initiative means that the authorities are preparing to a war, the RPA spokesperson said, As far as there is no peace treaty, the political leadership must be ready to any scenario. We prepare our public to peace, but considering the announcements from Baku and Ankara, the necessity to reinforce our security system will face us for many years.
Photo: The Canadian Press
The Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia is showcasing handmade textiles from around the world in an upcoming exhibition that will also draw from its own extensive collections.
More than 130 items will make up "a sumptuous feast for the eyes" revealing how cloth has been used to express social status, political identity and spiritual belief systems, the museum says.
They include Japanese kimonos, Indian saris, Indonesian sarongs, South Pacific bark cloth, Chinese Qing dynasty robes, Maori feather cloaks and indigenous northwest coast blankets.
The pieces reflect a wide range of materials and production techniques.
"Layers of Influence: Unfolding Cloth Across Cultures" will run from Nov. 17 to April 9, 2017.
The museum is located on the UBC campus 20 minutes from downtown Vancouver.
Photo: Getty Images
A man charged with a series of arsons in the Vernon area in 2014 has been ordered to stand trial on child pornography charges next year.
William Munton, 55, is facing two counts of making or publishing child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.
Munton taught school in the Salmon Arm area at one time, but was fired "with cause" in 2005, according to a School District 83 official.
He will appear before a B.C. Supreme Court judge in Vernon to answer the charges on Sept. 25, 2017.
Munton is also facing a separate supreme court trial on 19 arson charges in connection with incidents that occurred between May and November 2014.
No trial date for that case has been set.
Photo: RCMP The property in Cherryville searched by RCMP.
In a coordinated effort early this (Wednesday) morning, officers from the North Okanagan Detachment, Air Services Division and the Emergency Response Team (ERT) from the Lower Mailand raided a residence in the 1800 block of Hwy 6 in the Cherryville area.
The property was searched and the officers located one male suspect on the property.
They found a two level concrete bunker with a multiple stage growing operation.
Half of this operation was being powered by generator; the other half was being powered by a hydro connection.
The concrete bunker was secured and the air quality of the area was checked by the (ERT) members before this very sophisticated grow operation was able to be dismantled. Officers have seized 4,608 plants.
As part of this ongoing investigation they are looking into the origin of the generator.
The 33-year-old male suspect from the Kelowna area is expected to face charges of Production, and Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking.
The dismantling of this grow operation is part of the continuing commitment to our Strategic Priorities for the region in dealing with the production of marijuana.
YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS. A Russian fighter jet crashed in the Mediterranean Sea shortly after launching from its aircraft carrier near the coast of Syria on November 13, Armenpress reports two U.S. officials told Fox News.
Three Russian MiG-29 fighter jets took off from their aircraft carrier, Admiral Kuznetsov, and flew in the direction of Syria. Once airborne, one of the Russian jets appeared to have mechanical difficulties and turned around in the direction of the aircraft carrier.
The Russian jet splashed down in the water while attempting to land. A Russian rescue helicopter picked up a parachute and the pilot. The pilot's status was unclear, U.S. intelligence officials said.
MTN accompanies small and medium-sized enterprises in Cameroon
MTN Cameroon, leader of telecommunications in Cameroon, announces the signing of a partnership agreement with the Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion Agency (APME), on Friday, 11 November 2016 in Yaounde. The ceremony organized for this event was presided at by a representative of the Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises, Social Economy and Handicrafts (MINPMEESSA), in the presence of Philisiwe SIBIYA, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Cameroon and Jean Marie BADGA, General Manager of APME.
Within the framework of this partnership, MTN Cameroon shall avail its technology and know-how to 20,000 Small and Medium Enterprises operating in Cameroon since 2012. The SMEs concerned by this programme shall benefit for example a pack which provides them with a website, professional email addresses and mobile phone as well as data access facilities. In addition, they will receive other products to enhance their financial, personnel and customer management. Moreover, there will be a dedicated MTN support team within APME offices across the 10 regions of Cameroon.
The APME on its part, will finance access by enterprises to these solutions at the tune of 50%. Ourobjective is to ensure that all the SMEs participating in this programme become leaders in their respective sectors of activity by valorizing this productive Cameroon that we are all envisaging, declared Mr. Jean Marie Louis BADGA, General Manager of APME. Same feeling at MTN, where the wish today is to continue playing a major role in the development of the digital economy which constitutes a major challenge for the sustainable development and emergence of Cameroon, confided Philisiwe SIBIYA, CEO of MTN Cameroon.
www.mtn.cm
The authors also state that the 2009 protocols on the normalisation of relations with Armenia have not been ratified to date. They also address the criminal case over the assassination of Hrant Dink, the editor-in-chief of the Istanbul-based Armenian weekly Agos, as well as the Armenian Patriarchates pressures upon the teaching of the Armenian language in schools. The report focuses also on the positive judgment issued in the lawsuit against the Grey Wolves Organisation in Kars on charges of hate speech against Armenians.
The Turkish authorities have voiced a strong criticism against the document. Omer Chelik, Turkeys EU minister, has even branded it as biased and non-constructive.
The full report can be accessed here.
STEPANAKERT, NOVEMBER 14, ARTSAKHPRESS-ARMENPRESS: Defense Minister Vigen Sargsyan said the law aims to form a special system which will ensure the compensation of the damages caused to the life or health of servicemen while defending Armenia, participating in military operations or while on military service in the line of contact.
The current law regulates the relations in connection with the compensation of the damages caused to the life or health of servicemen as a result of military operations, as well as the procedure and conditions for establishment and activity of the compensation fund, the Minister said.
He said the beneficiaries are the servicemen whose life or health has been damaged as a result of military operations. Servicemans being killed or missing is considered as damage caused to his life, and the servicemans loss of ability to work as a result of received injury is considered as damage to his health. If serviceman is killed or is missing, in this case his spouse, child, parents are considered as beneficiary.
The special fund is going to be the base of the proposed system which will unite the state and public funds, will ensure the professional management of these funds, as well as the compensation of damages caused to the life or health of the servicemen in the expense of the allocated funds. The fund will operate under certain key principles. In particular, the collection of fees and the insurance compensations must be simple and perceivable for every citizen, they must be managed based on the professional asset management calculations. The system must be transparent in order to receive the necessary trust from the system, the Minister said adding that the compensation funds will be transferred for incidents that will be registered after January 28, 2017.
In case of death or having 1st degree disability a lump-sum 10 million AMD will be compensated. In case of 2nd degree disability a lump-sum 5 million AMD will be compensated. Thereafter, there will be monthly payments. In case of officers deaths or 1st degree disability 300.000 AMD will be compensated, in case of 2nd degree disability 200.000 AMD. 250.000 AMD and 150.000 AMD respectively will be compensated for the corporal staff, 200.000 AMD and 100.000 AMD respectively will be compensated for the privates, the Minister said.
He also presented the sources for the Funds financial resources. He said the financial resources will be formed from monthly 1000 AMDs of each of employees salaries, from the sales of securities, as well as from grants and donations provided for that purpose.
It was January 1955, and Downs was referring to my first home leave from Papua New Guinea. I was due to depart the next day.
Just out look at that peculiar bit of grassland above Daulo. Well leave just after first light so youll have plenty of time before your goodbyes.
Ian Downs, District Commissioner of the Eastern Highlands, gave me one of his rare smiles.
Yes, sir. Where to and for how long?
BOB, I want you to come with me on a short flight tomorrow.
Be at TAL at seven. Therell be a couple of Ag blokes along as well.
Uh, okay sir.
Good, see you then. He picked up his pen. There was no more to be said.
Back in my office, I turned to all the matters that needed last-minute attention before I went on leave.
The Daulo that Downs referred to was a road camp Id built at a pass at 2,492 metres, part of the Highlands Highway we were constructing. At this point, the just-built, narrow, winding jeep track crossed a major divide between Goroka and Mount Hagen..
The peculiar bit of grassland was a flat area high in the rainforest behind Daulo. Downs thought it might be suitable for a crop of pyrethrum, a daisy-like plant from which an insecticide is extracted.
In other parts of the world, pyrethrum was proving to be an easy and useful village cash crop. Trials in PNG at lower altitudes had been unsuccessful, but the pyrethrum daisies Id planted at Daulo had produced a good flowering, PNGs first.
The Agriculture Department was now interested in trying it as a cash crop in other upland areas.
With four passengers, we took off from Goroka as planned in an old twin-engined, fabric-covered biplane, a de Havilland DH84 Dragon.
The flight took only 20 minutes but, as we approached, we found the cloud-base at 2,700 metres too low to fly safely through the slight gap in the ridge which would have allowed us to over-fly the grassed area.
Tony Vadim, a highly-experienced pilot, realised he could give us quick sideways glimpses through the gap by flying back and forth just below the cloud-base. After several passes, Downs shouted over the din of the engines, We cant see enough, Tony. Take us home.
Tony eased back on the throttles and began descending. Almost immediately, both engines fell silent and our decline steepened alarmingly.
No one said anything. Maybe, like me, they hoped this was Tonys way of losing altitude. Then, reality struck we were not under power. The propellers were just rotating in the wind. The terrain below suddenly looked very rugged indeed. My first thought was Damn! Ill miss the plain South tomorrow.
Tonys not-quite-calm voice rose over the rushing noise of the air stream. Its okay. The carbys have iced up. The engines will start as soon as the ice melts.
That didnt relax me nor, I suspect, the others. Apart from several sharply exhaled expletives, we said nothing, just waited anxiously.
Tony began a careful turn towards a small airstrip below. The ridges and trees and some villages in the valley were getting closer. Someone said, Come on, come on.
Then one engine started with a splutter, then a roar. The aircraft slewed. Then the other spluttered to life, and we were back flying under control.
That was awkward, said Tony, reverting to his habitually laconic style. All okay?
We could only smile weakly, but a babel of chatter burst from us with the release of tension. We wiped the sweat from our faces, formed despite the cold air.
Once safely back in Goroka, Tony explained that the air immediately under a layer of cloud is very humid because it is loaded with super-cooled moisture on the verge of turning to cloud.
When this air rushed into the engines unsophisticated carburettors, it formed a film of ice which built up until the engines choked for lack of air. In our case coincidently the engines had both stopped at the same time.
Just as well they started quickly, he added
Quickly? One of the Ag blokes said.
Yeah. It was only about 30 seconds until they started.
We all agreed it felt like many minutes. The longest half-minute of my life, said the Ag-man.
The next day I flew to Port Moresby, then on to Sydney in the comfort of a pressurised, four-engine Qantas Douglas DC-4 Skymaster.
I appreciated the difference between this aircraft and the 25-years-older Dragon. It made the flight so much sweeter.
Representatives from del Lago Resort & Casino in Tyre, Seneca County will be holding a job fair specifically for veterans today in Geneva.
The event will be held from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Finger Lakes Works Geneva, 70 Elizabeth Blackwell St.
Interested veterans will be able to meet with del Lago staff and learn more about job opportunities available at the $440 million destination gaming resort, which will open in February.
The casino also invites anyone interested in job opportunities to visit its employment center, which is located inside the Generations Bank building, 20 E. Bayard St., Seneca Falls.
The employment center has more information about available positions and you can apply for jobs. Members of del Lago's human resources department will be available to conduct interviews and answer questions.
The office is open from 9 a.m. to noon Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays and from 2 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays.
For more information about available job opportunities, visit dellagoresort.com.
Inside Government with Guy Cosentino this week will feature a pair of Auburn city councilors
On Tuesday, City Councilors Terry Cuddy and Jimmy Giannettino will discuss environmental issues, such as the blue-green algae in Owasco Lake and liquid landfill materials being transported through the city from Seneca Meadows landfill in Seneca County. The show will first air at 7 p.m. Tuesday on Time Warner Cable channel 12 on Tuesday and it will be replayed at the same time Thursday. It's also scheduled for 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on Time Warner 12 and 90 and Verizon 31 via Auburn Regional Media Access.
Beyond the Front Page with Guy Cosentino will feature an update on the Cayuga County United Ways 2016 campaign with campaign co-chairs William and Karen Speck and Karen Macier, the agency's executive director. Rob Forcey, The Citizen's publisher, will also be a guest to discuss the Warm the Children program. That show first airs at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday on Timer Warner 12 and again at the same time Thursday. It's then scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on Time Warner 12 and 90 and Verizon 31 via Auburn Regional Media Access.
These programs are also streamed live and archived on the Cayuga Communty College Telcom Departments YouTube channel, Media@Cayuga. Viewers should open YouTube in a browser or app and then enter Media@Cayuga in the search bar.
The shows are rebroadcast starting at 10 a.m. each Saturday morning on the colleges radio station, WIN-89 89.1 FM.
Suggested questions for any of the shows guests can sent to cozguytho@aol.com.
A solidarity action and rally to protest the Dakota Access Pipeline will take place from 8 to 9 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15, at the Army Corps of Engineers office at the Natural Resource Center, 7413 County House Road, Auburn.
Those gathered will call on the office to revoke the permits for the pipeline, which will cross ancestral Standing Rock Sioux territory in North Dakota, the tribe claims. In addition to the cultural impact of the pipeline, the tribe and a swelling protest movement have called attention to its environmental impact, as well.
Those who attend the Auburn protest are encouraged to bring art and banners, and to share on social media with the hashtag #NoDAPL.
For more information, RSVP to the protest on actionnetwork.org.
Im reminded of a line from James Joyce: History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake. The results of last weeks election were like a sucker punch to over half of the registered Americans who voted (seven million did not). Even myself, who maintains that the center part of his center-left position is vital, was steadfast against Trump. Unexpected and painful as it was, the world continues to turn. It is timely that last week I quoted Socrates quip about self-examination, as there are lessons to be learned as always.
One lesson is that poor, rural white communities used to be up for grabs between Democrats and Republicans. Now it is only the Democrats' soft, exposed underbelly, ignored to its own peril. My family, the Roblees of Cattaraugus County, belong to this group, so I feel like I know them well. They live in world of disappearing jobs, changing demographics, drug abuse and domestic violence. In the small towns like Machias and Franklinville in which I grew up, the only strong support comes from the church, which is predicated on forgiveness. In some cases, they are locked in a quid pro quo relationship in which support is paid for in faith. To them, for right or wrong, four years of Clinton would mean further alienation.
The Cattaraugus Roblees feel they have been left behind by the modern world. Instead of listening to them, we roll our eyes and call them stupid and backward. We mock them on television and film, and we have made no effort to address their concerns either. We talk down to them from a privileged hilltop, telling them to evolve. To this approach any American would naturally rebel. What is worse, this kind of treatment can create racists out of spite, rather than actual conviction. Yet, Trump is not the hero of my rural cousins. They despise him as much as Hillary. But to those made cynical by decades of neglect, their choice begins with the assumption that the candidates are lying, cheating, criminals. So they figure why not vote for the lying criminal who will end abortion? Why not vote for the cheater who might open up the state land for drilling so they can stop collecting welfare?
As a 6-foot 3-inch white Anglo-Saxon protestant male, now with an Ivy League college education, I have perhaps the very least to worry about in America. I have strayed far from the path of the Southern Tier Roblees, but my heart is still with them in many ways. The warm bonds of family cant be severed by something as paper-thin as American politics. For me and those like me, there is a duty to use our privilege to reach out and show folks how theyve been lied to.
Dont say youll leave the country, thats cowardly. The brave stay and face their problems; only the weak and fearful build walls to hide from them. More hatred and division wont win elections or make progress only inclusion can do that.
The Salvation Army of Greater Chattanooga was first called upon to serve breakfast to fire crews on Thursday to the command center on Little Bend Road in Hamilton County. Since last week, The Salvation Army has placed staff and volunteers on stand-by to continue to assist crews who continue to battle wild fires in Tennessee and Georgia. Currently, The Salvation Army is loading snacks and beverages to take to the Dade County, Ga. command post to assist between meals.Meeting needs, physically, emotionally and spiritually is something The Salvation Army does every day, including at times of disaster, said Major Robert Lyle, area commander of The Greater Chattanooga Salvation Army.The community entrusts us to do the most good with their resources and we will continue to do so until we are no longer needed. Please also join us in prayer for those affected by the wild fires and for those fighting these fires.Donations are needed to continue support and can be made online at www.csarmy.org , by phone to 1-800-Sal-Army or by mailing The Salvation Army at 822 McCallie Ave., Chattanooga, Tn. 37403.For more information, contact Kimberly George, Director of Marketing for The Salvation Army of Chattanooga at 423 756-1023 or Kimberly_George@uss.salvationa rmy.org
With the election of Donald Trump, the discussion about illegal immigration has become more contentious. And it was already pretty contentious. Though immigration is largely beneficial, there are plenty of concerns that simply havent been addressed. People are scared of losing their jobs, terrorist attacks, and seeing their tax dollars spent on people who, they believe, shouldnt be in the country in the first place.
The truth is, very few (if any) Americans are going to lose their jobs to undocumented workers. Its much more likely that big businesses will use legal loopholes to import cheaper labor something that is widely unknown or ignored by many Americans. Illegal immigration has also largely reversed over the past eight years. Pew Research Center recently released a report detailing the declines and increases in the undocumented population, and as this chart shows, overall growth has stalled and reversed.
Using data between 2009 and 2014, Pew was able to look for trends in the immigrant population. According to the report, there were 8 million unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. working or looking for work in 2014, making up 5% of the civilian labor force. But when you look beyond national trends and to the state level, there are some clear differences:
From 2009 to 2014, when the number of unauthorized immigrant workers was stable, eight U.S. states Alabama, California, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Nevada, South Carolina and Rhode Island had statistically significant declines in the number of unauthorized immigrants in their workforces, the report said.
Conversely, seven states had increases in their undocumented populations. From Pews report, here are those seven states.
1. Washington
Central and eastern Washington are widely rural and agricultural. That means there are plenty of opportunities for immigrant workers, both documented and undocumented, to find work. Particularly in Washingtons central corridor, where production of apples, cherries, and hops are economic staples.
2. Utah
You dont typically think of Utah when discussing immigration patterns, but its another largely rural state with a growing economy. Its also very conservative, which makes immigration a hotter topic than in, say, liberal Washington state. But evidently, the undocumented workforce is growing nonetheless.
3. Minnesota
Like Utah, Minnesota seems like an odd choice for undocumented workers. It doesnt border the Pacific or Atlantic oceans and isnt adjacent to Mexico. But it shares a similar profile to other states on this list: largely rural, with a growing population and economy.
4. Louisiana
The South has seen some significant increases in its illegal immigrant populations. Though states like Alabama have taken some pretty big steps to curb that growth, Louisiana is still seeing spikes. Opportunities in industries like agriculture, construction, and hospitality are likely catalysts.
5. Virginia
Lawful and unlawful immigration to the state of Virginia has been on the rise for several years. As a response, lawmakers have been floating some ideas for dealing with it. Regardless, the states share of undocumented workers is going up.
6. Pennsylvania
North of Virginia, Pennsylvania is another state with increasing immigrant populations. Yet another state with some urban cores and a great deal of rural, agricultural areas, Pennsylvanias an attractive place for new arrivals to find work. This may have played a part in the states swing from blue to red during the 2016 election.
7. New Jersey
New Jersey is the final state that Pew points out for having an increased number of undocumented workers. Its a small state, with opportunities for work more than likely popping up in and around urban centers like New York City.
Read more about Pew Researchs dive into Americas illegal immigration issues here.
Follow Sam on Facebook and Twitter @SliceOfGinger
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Media Invite
Has it already been a year since Playeum opened? An indoor playground with slides and ball pits and play structures Playeum is not. Rather, it is Singapore's first Children's Centre for Creativty and an independent charity which champions children through play and creativity.
And it starts from tomorrow (15 Nov 2015)! And so after two successful exhibitions where kids got to explore speed and engage with nature , Playeum is back with a BRAND NEW hands-on installation which children can create their own stories and immerse themselves in stories from different cultures.
Located at Gillman Barracks, Playeum is a museum without walls which hopes to inspire children through self-directed exploration and learning and in the process, establish a culture of meaningful and impactful play.
And this is exactly what its newest exhibition, A World Full of Stories, hopes to achieve. Combining the fundamental facets of stories with play and specifically designed for children aged 1-12, the exhibition offers a series of interactive and open-ended spaces for young minds to feed their creative imagination through role play, storymaking, illustration, writing, drama and puppetry.
The monkies are huge fans of Playeum so judging from the sneak preview they had at the various installations at the new exhibition, I think it is safe to say they thoroughly enjoyed the experience!
1. Story Cubes
2. Story Raft
3. Sand Play
4. Story Caves
5. Fantasy Dress-up
6. Story Writing
7. Glass Painting
8. Chalk Wall
9. Play Making Space
10. The Story Booth
11. A Film Full of Stories
WOW, this has got to be the MOST number of installations ever at a Playeum's exhibition!
I love how A World Full of Stories offers limitless play opportunities for every child, and of different age groups. Not only does it feed their imaginations with inspiring stories from around the world, the exhibition also inspires and encourages them to create their own new stories.
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Playeum's Children's Centre for Creativity
A World Full of Stories
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Encouraging children to employ the active use of imagination through creative expression, A WorldFull of Stories consists ofin total. Here are the fun learning experiences that kids can expect:A series of cube-shaped structures provide multiple surfaces and opportunities for story-making, creating fantasy characters and new narratives. Deliberately set up as a maze, the installation consists of various characters stuck on the walls where kids can move them around to tell their own stories.Walk to the end of the maze and kids will find an animal den that is fit for cozying, including a book corner, crammed full of storybooks for children.The centrepiece of the exhibition features a life-sized raft made from bamboo! Children can imagine being at sea by playing on a bamboo and rope raft, complete with a flag-flying mast and wheel forsteering.Kids can even design their own flags and hoist them up to fly them high in the 'sky'!They can also create a personalised, magical marine environment by crafting their ownsea creature on the walls surrounding the raft.The nautical theme continues right beside the raft, where kids will be able to experiment with kinetic sand - sand which mimics the physical properties of wet sand.For kids who enjoy role-play, head to the two immersive and multisensory cardboard caves! In the Look and Touch cave, they can revel in a magical, luminous environment and play with props to create their own alchemic stories.In the Listen and Speak cave, kids are encouraged to experiment with sound tubes, speaking cups, and voice-distortion mechanisms, all built into the fabric of the structure.One cannot simply weave stories without donning costumes. This corner offers a chance for kids to dress up as a favourite fantasy character. With plenty of materials to choose from, expect them to go into a costume fitting frenzy!Budding story writers are encouraged to pen down their own stories and post them into the red Story Mailbox. Selected stories will be featured regularly on Playeums website!Which kids doesn't love to draw on walls? Even better, how about painting on glass doors???Children can add their own chalk features and additional narrative to the chalk wall landscape, drawn by cartoonist Clio Ding.This has all along been the monkies favourite space in Playeum for the past two exhibitions and it was certainly no exception this time around. The reason? The shelves are well-stocked with a mind-boggling selection of upcycled materials like plastic bottles, ribbons, wooden sticks, and even natural materials like seeds!Throw in a host of ample tools required for that bit of crafting, and I think the monkies were all set.See what I mean?And because it is all about telling stories this time round, kids will be able to create their own hand-puppets, finger puppets, or spoon puppets using upcycled materials. And these were what the monkies created.But the creation doesn't end there. Kids will be able to use their puppets in a special puppet theatre where not only are they able to tell a story using the puppets, they can control the lighting effects and produce accompanying sounds for the audience too! Nothing like a little teamwork, eh?This interactive feature allows kids to step into a confined space, where they can share their stories through photography and video - with or without their puppets. Stories will be recorded via an iPad.Kids need a breather, or some downtime? Head to the Dark Space which will showcase a specially commissioned storytelling film, where five of Singapores finest storytellers will be orating a story from a specific culture.Featuring Sheila Wee, Nancy Leopard, Kamini Ramachandran, Karen Lee, Rosemarie Somaiah and played on a loop, kids can enjoy 30 minutes of this rich, oral art-form, within a magical space lit up with quietly glowing story icons and motifs on the surrounding walls and ceiling.Here are a few things to note if you planning a trip down:1. Entry to Children's Centre for Creativity is $22 per child (1-12 years old). One accompanying adult enters free while additional accompanying adults play $10 each.2. Although entry is for unlimited play for the day, there is a possibility that visits may be kept to 2-hours during busy periods.3. Annual Memberships available at $160 per child, which offers one year's worth of unlimited entry for one child and one adult. This also includes a 10% discount on workshops and 20% discount for additional adult price.4. There are no toilets and nursing rooms within centre. Toilets are however, located just beside once you exit the Playeum building.5. No snacks and drinks are sold on premises. There is a cold drinks vending machine beside the washrooms.6. If your kids (or you) are feeling really famished, head to Red Baron cafe opposite Playeum. It sells sandwiches, cakes and other pastries.Blk 47, Malan Road, Gillman Barracks, #01-23, Singapore 10944415 November 2016 - 30 April 2017Tues - Sun: 10am - 6pm (Closed on Mondays)$22 per child (1-12) | Accompanying adult: Free | Additional accompanying adult: $10Safra Membership Card: 20% off child and additonal adult admissionDBS Employees: 20% off child and additonal adult admissionUOB Cardholders: 20% off child admissioneXplorerkid Membership: 15% off child admissionPOSB Baby Bonus Nets Card: 1-for-1 child admission dealNearest MRT Station (5 to 10 minutes walk): Labrador Park Station (Circle Line)Nearest Bus Stop (3 minutes walk): Along Alexandra Road, Opposite Alexandra Point (Bus Stop Number 15059) - Available Buses: 51, 57, 61, 83, 97, 97e, 100, 166, 175, 408, 963 or 963E*Free Parking on Sundays.
City
Carrie A. Larrabee, 31, 9 Hoffman St., Auburn, was picked up on a warrant Nov. 12 and charged with five counts of second-degree criminal contempt and endangering the welfare of a child.
Shawn W. Ward, 34, Auburn, was picked up on a warrant Nov. 11 and charged with first-degree identity theft, second-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument, second-degree forgery and fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property.
Travis J. Breedlove, 42, 19 Venice St. Apt. Left, Auburn, was charged Nov. 10 with second-degree burglary, fourth-degree grand larceny, third-degree burglary and petit larceny.
Daniel L. Hopp, 23, 39 Case Ave. Apt. Up, Auburn, was picked up on a warrant Nov. 10 and charged with third-degree criminal mischief, criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation and fourth-degree criminal mischief.
State
James M. Latocha, 36, Auburn, was charged Nov. 11 with unlawful growth of cannabis and fourth-degree criminal mischief.
Brandon L. LaFleur, 23, Cato, was charged Nov. 12 with second-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle.
Michael J. Bona, 31, Auburn, was charged Nov. 13 with driving while intoxicated.
Timothy J. Patterson, 52, Cayuga, was charged Nov. 11 with driving while intoxicated.
Jonathan S. Nagy, 38, Jordan, was charged Nov. 13 with third-degree menacing.
Hydroponics is an innovative method of growing plants using mineral nutrient solutions, in water, without soil. (iStockphoto)
More than a dozen tech startups will pitch ideas to Midwestern farmers, investors and agribusiness powerhouses Tuesday in Chicago during the first Midwest AgTech Conference.
The single-day conference will showcase projects focusing on sustainability, data collection and precision agriculture. It'll be a chance to strengthen Illinois' position as a center for agricultural innovation, said Roger Royse, founder of the California-based Royse Law Firm, which organized the conference.
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"This is a natural here in Illinois," said Royse, whose firm specializes in representing tech startups and sponsors similar events across the West Coast. "The biggest thing is to provide opportunities for ag-tech companies looking to make strategic partnerships or find customers."
RubiconAg, Tiny But Mighty Foods, Crystal Diagnostics and Zero Gravity Solutions are among the startups scheduled to pitch.
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RubiconAg, based in Greenfield, Ind., turns upcycled shipping containers into automated hydroponic growing facilities capable of producing an acre's worth of food in a space equivalent to six standard parking spots. Iowa-based Tiny But Mighty Foods sells heirloom popcorn with tiny kernels and disintegrating hulls. Crystal Diagnostics, based in Colorado, has an Ohio facility that uses technology to help detect pathogens in food. And Florida-based Zero Gravity Solutions repurposes technology designed for space to boost nutrient delivery in crops on Earth.
Other startups scheduled to pitch ideas include a company that derives charcoal-like substances from organic material and a firm that synthesizes digestive enzymes found in insect stomachs to naturally break down difficult compounds.
Despite Illinois' standing as a top-five agricultural producing state, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, research from Ag Funder shows it has been somewhat overshadowed when it comes to ag-tech investment.
Illinois startups received roughly $21 million in ag-tech investment in 2015, according to Ag Funder's research. That ranked ninth nationally but paled in comparison to the $1.25 billion California startups received the same year.
U.S. ag-tech startups raised $2.2 billion overall in 2015, according to Ag Funder. Globally, they received more than $4.6 billion, nearly doubling the level of investment from the previous year.
Part of the reason Illinois has lagged behind states like California, Massachusetts and New York is a gap between Illinois' agriculture and business sectors, said Lee Strom, CEO of the Food and Agriculture Roadmap for Illinois (FARM Illinois) and former chairman of the Farm Credit Administration.
The state has a tremendous agriculture industry and vibrant business community, Strom said, but the two don't collaborate as often as they should. FARM Illinois has been trying to improve that relationship by bringing the state's key stakeholders together, said Strom, who is also one of the conference's keynote speakers.
"In Illinois, we have the world-class hub of Chicago and a world-class agriculture sector," Strom said. "My comments at this conference will help frame what (FARM Illinois') leadership is doing to ensure that the Chicago region and the state of Illinois form a global hub for food and agricultural innovation."
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Innovation related to food and agriculture has been made all the more important in recent years thanks to a long list of challenges, said Jim Slama, president of nonprofit advocacy organization FamilyFarmed. Those include increasingly resistant super-weeds, climate change and a national food waste problem.
Slama, another keynote speaker, said those challenges present opportunities for startups. To encourage innovation, he founded the Good Food Business Accelerator at 1871.
Ag Funder's research reported that innovation accelerators such as Slama's have contributed to a steady increase in investment activity throughout the Midwest. During the first half of 2016, for example, Illinois produced six new ag-tech startups compared to the eight it produced in all of 2015.
"There's definitely been a lot of money going into ag-tech startups," Slama said.
Colleen Callahan, director of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's rural development program in Illinois, is the conference's third keynote speaker. She said her presentation will focus on how technology can aid rural neighborhoods by improving access to health care and streamlining emergency response efforts.
Mobile apps can link rural patients to medical specialists in urban areas, and precision equipment such as drones can help emergency responders quickly identify accident victims in hard-to-get to locations, she said.
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"That's a use of technology in rural areas that we were not familiar with," said Callahan, who grew up on a family farm in Iroquois County. "It wasn't an option before."
More than 200 people are expected to attend the Midwest AgTech Conference, according to the Royse Law Firm. Agribusiness corporations represented at the conference will include Dow AgroSciences and Monsanto. The conference will be at 108 W. Germania Place in Chicago's Gold Coast.
Robert Holly is a freelance writer.
Twitter @robertwadeholly
Amie Kuntz of Sandwich, a nurse who struggled with addiction to opiates for seven years, wants to share her story so others know "it can happen to anyone." (Denise Crosby / The Beacon-News)
Amie Kuntz is not the kind of recovering addict I'm used to interviewing. But I'm darn glad I got a chance to sit down with her last week because she represents a growing segment of the population struggling to get off opiates and stay clean.
That means the woman from Sandwich has an important story to share.
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Unlike so many young people who fall victim to drugs as they struggle to find their way into adulthood, 34-year-old Kuntz breezed through those treacherous years and seemed to have achieved it all: A loving husband. A wonderful child. A beautiful home. A fulfilling career as an oncology and palliative care nurse.
So how did this young woman, raised in a normal middle-class family, president of her 2000 class at Oswego High School and an overachiever in every sense of the word, wind up as an addict?
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The fact she was "so driven" likely contributed to her addiction, says Kuntz. "And if it can happen to me, it can happen to anyone."
Looking back after 15 months of sobriety, there is always clarity.
While she experimented with alcohol and pot only minimally in high school and college, Kuntz says it was in 2009 that she began abusing pain killers after taking them to deal with an old hip injury she'd received as a dancer in high school.
And life, as it tends to do, began throwing a few curve balls her way. Kuntz became a young mother; she went through a divorce from her first husband, who she married while in college; and she began suffering from burnout in a high stress career that dealt so much with pain and death.
It didn't help, of course, that as a nurse she always had drugs at her disposal.
"It was a perfect storm," Kuntz can now see. "I was a nurse and I was making bad choices. I put a lot of people in situations that I should not have."
As her addiction worsened, Kuntz admits she could only go about five hours without needing another fix. And the more frequently she used, the higher the dosage became.
No one knew the struggle she was going through - not her second husband, Donny, a construction worker; or her parents and siblings.
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"They just thought I had the flu a lot," she said.
Former President Clinton discusses opiate addiction at a presidential town hall in Las Vegas on Aug. 12.
It came to a head in January 2014 when her husband found a bevy of pain killers in her purse. By that time, having been addicted for seven years, "I was ready to be done with this," she said. "I was very honest with him. I told him I had to get help."
Kuntz spent 34 days at Rosecrance in Rockford in its abstinence program, where she met plenty of other women like her, many from wealthy suburbs who were hooked on heroin. While Kuntz herself never used the street drug, she says there really was no need to, as she had plenty of access to pain meds. "But had I needed to," she said, "I would have gone there."
After completing the in-patient rehab, Kuntz was clean for four months but relapsed in July 2015 and entered the program again, including outpatient care with Gateway Alcohol and Drug Treatment in Aurora. A couple of opiate blockers, suboxone and vivitrol, became "my safety net" for eight months to help her stay sober. For the past six months, she's not had to rely on any anti-addiction meds only weekly counseling sessions and support groups.
And she wakes up every day fully aware she must stay "laser focused" in order to remain "in that good place."
Kuntz, who calls her journey to sobriety both "amazing" and "humbling," is ready to go public because she's convinced that "until the stigma of addiction is removed," we aren't going to beat this problem. There needs to be more education, she insisted, particularly among health care professionals who have easy access to drugs and, by nature, tend to "not take care of themselves."
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Kuntz, who is now studying to become an addictions counselor, says she watches her son, an eighth-grader, like a hawk, to make sure he does not go down a similar path. And that's one reason the two of them will be attending "A Cop, a Convict and a Kid," the heroin-awareness program at 6:30 p.m. Monday at East Aurora High School that will also feature actor and stuntman Brandon Novak talking about his own struggles with opiate addiction.
Yes, you could easily add a nurse to that lineup, she says with a laugh.
"I want my son to see it, to be able to tie it all together," Kuntz said. "There is such an array of people there ...it really can happen to anyone."
Dcrosby@tribpub.com
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"Beverly Hills 90210" cast members, left to right, Jennie Garth, Brian Austin Green, Ian Ziering, Jason Priestley and Gabrielle Carteris attend the Beverly Hills 90210 and Melrose Place first season DVD launch party held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif. (Phil Mccarten / AP)
"Beverly Hills, 90210" cast members are paying tribute to ailing co-star Shannen Doherty.
Doherty is being treated for breast cancer and didn't take part in a "90210" reunion panel at the Rewind Convention in Bloomingdale, Ill., at the Hilton Indian Lakes Resort over the weekend.
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Luke Perry, whose character had an on-screen romance with Doherty's, told the audience Saturday that Doherty was "a very big part of the success of the show." He added that Doherty is "not doing well right now but sometimes her contributions are minimized."
Fellow cast mate Jennie Garth praised Doherty on Instagram by sharing a picture Saturday with a quote, "Fight Like A Brenda," a reference to Doherty's "90210" character, Brenda Walsh. Garth calls Doherty the "strongest lady I've ever known."
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Associated Press
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Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 122 Sophie Turner as Jean Grey, anger management student, in "Dark Phoenix." The film, the latest in the "X-Men" franchise, costars James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender and Jessica Chastain. Read the review. (Twentieth Century Fox)
"The Simpsons" addressed its President Trump prediction from 16 years ago in Sunday's opening credits. (Fox)
Sixteen years ago, "The Simpsons" writers predicted a Donald Trump presidency.
Sunday night, in the first show to air after Trump's victory, they expressed their regret.
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In the opening credits, which change every episode, Bart Simpson grimaced as he scrawled on the blackboard: "BEING RIGHT SUCKS."
The Simpsons updates its 2000 prediction of a Trump Presidency... #TheSimpsons pic.twitter.com/Myf5rYb9Dj The Simpsons (@TheSimpsons) November 14, 2016
It was an allusion to a prediction made in a 2000 episode, which featured Lisa as the nation's first "straight female" president. Her older brother Bart had slacked away his life, but offered a solution she was unable to see.
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From the Oval Office, Lisa said: "As you know, we've inherited quite a budget crunch from President Trump."
Trump was just the right comedic fit at the time, episode writer Dan Greaney recently told The Washington Post's Michael Cavna. The writers were looking for a celebrity name that would sound slyly absurdist.
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"The story was really about Bart saving Lisa's presidency," Greaney said. "Lisa has a problem beyond her ability" - the kind that only Bart could solve.
Greaney said Trump "seems like a 'Simpsons'-esque figure - he fits right in there, in an over-the-top way ... He seemed kind of lovable in the old days, in a blowhard way."
"But now that he's running for president, I see that in a much darker way," the Emmy-winning writer-producer said earlier this year.
"The Simpsons" riffed on Trump earlier this season, in a scene that showed both major-party candidates receiving an important 3 a.m. phone call.
Hillary Clinton was well prepared for the call, but Trump initially rejected it because he was busy tweeting about Elizabeth Warren, a Democrat and a harsh Trump critic, according to The Post's Bethonie Butler.
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He answered the second phone call, but his trip to the Situation Room was hampered by an elaborate grooming regimen.
Marge definitively announced that she would vote for Clinton. Homer eventually got the hint.
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Watch the latest movie trailers.
Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 122 Sophie Turner as Jean Grey, anger management student, in "Dark Phoenix." The film, the latest in the "X-Men" franchise, costars James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender and Jessica Chastain. Read the review. (Twentieth Century Fox)
Kenn E. Head, from left, Omar Evans and Stephen Conrad Moore in American Theater Companys documentary play The Project(s). The impact of such works on the citys streets is difficult to quantify. (Michael Brosilow)
"Crime Scene." "Crime Scene: The Next Chapter." "The Gospel of Lovingkindness." "How Long Will I Cry?" "It Shoudda Been Me." "Jabari Dreams of Freedom." "The Project(s)." "Prowess." "Track 13."
They've been howls of pain, expressions of guilt, political assertions, aspirational fantasies, furious invectives hurled at a rigged, racist system, gentle tributes to those no longer living.
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They've played to audiences that included bereft family members, and audiences that couldn't care less.
They've been staged over the past couple of years at theaters big and small, from Lincoln Park to Pulaski Park, from North Center to the heart of Englewood.
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They've been told from the points of view of those living it, and they have attempted to raise the consciousness of those who live far away from the pain.
All of these plays have been about Chicago and guns. They were all written here, designed here, directed here, acted here and watched here.
Kenn E. Head performs a scene from American Theater Company's production of "The Project(s)." (Chicago Tribune)
Have they done any actual good?
The cold, hard data would suggest they've done nothing. All you have to do is read the succinct first sentence of a news story the Tribune published on Halloween: "A bloody year for Chicago hit a new low this past weekend as 17 people were fatally shot, marking the deadliest weekend so far this year and pushing homicides past the 600 mark for the first time since 2003."
What more of an indictment of the ineffectiveness of what has been a passionate, furiously engaged effort by Chicago theater could possibly exist?
"I have been thinking about this a lot," says Nambi E. Kelley, the highly reflective author of one of those plays, "Jabari Dreams of Freedom," a piece staged last April at the Chicago Children's Theatre that is all about an 11-year-old boy growing up amid gun violence in Chicago, which is where Kelley grew up herself, although she now lives in Harlem in New York City.
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"Look at my situation," she says as she walks down the street. "These days, people are constantly asking me to write plays about gun violence and police shootings. I am very grateful to be asked. But in all transparency, I am just not sure what it does. This is all just a huge question for me. I feel powerless, yet it is how I pay my rent. Think about it. I make a living off people saying to me, this is a problem and what do you think about it?
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There is pause.
"I find it embarrassing," Kelley says. "Remember, I grew up on the South Side. What even is activism today? You can just click a link on Facebook. As an artist of color, I question that."
"I am a playwright, not a politician," says Ike Holter, who wrote another of those plays, "Prowess," and has written often about inequality, racism and violence. "I can't do anything to stop someone picking up a gun."
"There is a preponderance of evidence about the efficacy of arts-based work when it comes to gun violence," says Willa Taylor, the director of education and community education at the Goodman Theatre and an outspoken activist on this, and many other subjects. "But that evidence is purposefully ignored. The system is invested in keeping a level of dysfunction in certain neighborhoods that allows certain other parts of society to profit from that dysfunction, that allows there to be discussions about race that really should be discussions about class."
"This culture of segregation has led to an uneven distribution of resources, love, hope," says Anthony Moseley, the creator of "Crime Scene" and its sequel for the Collaboraction Theatre Company, which toured the shows about Chicago and guns into several neighborhoods from the company's Wicker Park base. "The tides move in and out. There are waves of things getting better and then things getting worse."
"There is always that feeling that you cannot do enough," says Hallie Gordon, the artistic director of the Steppenwolf for Young Adults program and the producer of many of the above plays. "Always that feeling. Look at all the kids being killed."
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"This is not normal," says Moseley. "This is not how we are supposed to live on a lake in the middle of the country."
Normal or not, it clearly is the way many of us are living. But is it reasonable to expect a play to stop a shooting? Is a gangbanger really likely to walk into a theater, his heart open to suggestions? Wouldn't all the money that goes into arts education be better spent, say, feeding kids a healthy breakfast?
"Of course the kind of money we spend on education programs even on theater in general could help alleviate some of the poverty and some of the things that are causal factors toward the violence," Taylor says, noting the limitations of the arts but also arguing that to see this issue as some kind of zero-sum game is absurd, given the political realities. "But it would not be spent that way."
So what to do? Discount the data and claim efficacy and victory? Write plays about other things? Throw up one's artistic arms in forlorn defeat? Pen frivolous musicals for perpetuity?
None of those nonsolutions work for these artists. But many of them have vowed to be smarter in figuring out what they can and cannot do, what they should and should not be doing, what it is reasonable to expect their audiences to process.
Take, for example, "The Burials," a recent Steppenwolf play by Caitlin Parrish that explored the devastating effect of school shootings across the country. The show was written for, and mostly played to, high school students who come to the Steppenwolf for Young Adults program. Gordon, who runs that program, was in charge of the talkbacks.
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"I think early on that we really wanted to have a serious conversation about the Second Amendment, but we found the kids weren't very interested in that conversation" she says, remembering what happened this fall. "But they were very interested in the emotional impact that the shootings had on kids their age. So you can ask them to look at how many people died in Chicago due to gun violence, but that does not seem to resonate. What was working for those kids was to give them the sense that they were being heard, that they felt a little less isolated. So the question for me becomes, 'How do you take that feeling you can offer them and then use it toward activism?'"
To put all that more bluntly: Theater artists generally have figured out that the issues don't resonate unless there is an emotional impact. They've similarly discerned that their audiences, especially their young audiences, have nowhere else to talk anything through.
"You just cannot have this conversation in a school assembly with 500 students, following a shooting, with counselors there on call, and expect the kids to open up and talk about their feeling," Gordon says. "That is not the way the world runs, but it is what usually happens following gun violence. What we have to do is really talk to the students who come to our shows, really talk to them in a way that makes them feel like they are being respected and heard. There is violence and then there is the trauma that follows. And I'd argue the arts offer the only space for those traumatic conversations."
In other words, you could argue that there would be more deaths in Chicago by gun violence were it not for these open conversational spaces in theaters, that mass post-traumatic stress syndrome would rage less checked. Reaching an individual at a piece of socially engaged art is not easy to quantify, of course, as Taylor points out at length. So these artists generally rely on innate belief.
"You have to have hope," Kelley says, "that you are reaching one of these children, that you offering them the tools to deal with this mess, that you are making them see that someone cares about what they feel. You have to have hope."
"I have to believe that the more stones we throw in the pond, the more there are ripples," says Moseley. "To be honest, the increase in violence that you talk about only justifies the work to me and inspires me to know that the work we are doing is even more important. As a Chicagoan and an artist, I can't walk away from this work. There is still a lot of ignorance. People have been numbed. But if you believe in the power of the arts, you know that it does do something. It does. You can get inside of people. You can."
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You have to teach everyone that we are not so different from each other. You can never overrate empathy. There but for the grace of God go I. This has to be the first step. Willa Taylor, the director of education and community education at the Goodman Theatre
You could argue, of course, that it is just as important to get inside of the people who may not be directly touched, for reasons of class and/or geography, by the scourge. You could argue that the most important job of the artist is not to prevent the violence, or even to talk to those who are suffering from its impact on their immediate community, but to increase the awareness thereof in other parts of the city.
"You have to start with people hearing the stories of lives they do not touch," Taylor says. "You have to teach everyone that we are not so different from each other. You can never overrate empathy. There but for the grace of God go I. This has to be the first step."
"All you can do is show the humanity," says Holter. "You have to let the people know who do not encounter gun violence that this is still their city and that if they do not deal with this now, they only will have to deal with the ramifications later."
And you never know who is in the audience, of course. Moseley, who has taken "Crime Scene" and its sequel into violence-riven ZIP codes, talks at length about gang members walking through the door, sitting and listening, maybe putting down their guns that night. Gordon talks about waves of young Chicagoans thanking artists for listening to their point of view. There are kids with guns in their cars who find themselves on educational trips to theaters, and maybe they leave that gun alone for a night. There are police officers who go to theater. There are kids who have watched their friends die on the streets who then find themselves watching the story of one in the same situation, and maybe they feel a little better. There are people with money and other resources who go to the theater and come out with a renewed commitment to work on this issue.
"All of these plays about gun violence that have been produced in Chicago," says Holter, "have reached very deeply inside a few people."
Now more than ever, an artist who deals with one audience member at a time, and who loves the city of Chicago, must take that on faith.
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Chris Jones is a Tribune critic.
cjones5@chicagotribune.com
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Mukuru opens first branch in Malawi
International money transfer company, Mukuru, has opened its first branch in Malawi following a surge in remittances from people in the diaspora to Malawi.
Speaking during the official opening, Mukuru Country Representative, Peggy Mhone, said the opening of the branch of the Malawi branch will help to complement the activities of Mukurus partners and agents.
We have seen a significant increase in the number and amount of transactions being sent to Malawi. Although I cannot disclose the actual amount we handle in a month or year, I can confirm that figures keep rising, Mhone said.
According to a report from the Trade and Law Centre on Moving Money Across the Borders, Malawi received a total of $38 million from the diaspora in 2015.
Blantyre City Council Deputy Mayor, Wild Ndipo, hailed Mukuru for opening the Limbe branch.
Ndipo said for Blantyre to develop, it needs more money, including contributions from the diaspora. This will definitely ensure easy cash transfers from the diaspora into Blantyre, thereby allowing city residents to embark on various development projects, he said.
www.mukuru.com
SKANEATELES In the fall of 1941, in his 17th year, Jack Howard was planning for college.
Then, on Dec. 7, while walking out of a Sunday movie matinee, he heard the news that the Japanese had bombed Pearl Harbor. He still went off to college but enlisted in the United States Naval Reserve on campus.
Howard was the keynote speaker at Skaneateles Robert J. Hydon American Legion Post 239's 13th annual Veterans Day soup and sandwich supper.
Not a Legion member, Howard and his service came to the attention of Post 239 Commander Eric Amberge when Howard was a passenger on the fifth Syracuse Honor Flight mission. These missions transport veterans to Washington, D.C. to see memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice.
Howard is best known in Skaneateles as husband to Ruth and as a father, grandfather and great-grandfather and also as the First Presbyterian Churchs mission point person for the Lost Boys of Sudan and past chairman of the board of the John Dau Foundation.
But, before all this, he had an adventure on the high seas as a naval deck officer.
Im not a hero, but I am a veteran, Howard said.
In 1942 two months into Howard's studies at Dartmouth College recruiters came to campus. Howard chose the Navy V12 School because he could train to be an officer. The V12 was established on college campuses between 1943 and 1946 to train officers because there was not enough room at the Naval Academy at that time.
In 1944, Howard was selected to go to midshipman school at Northwestern Universitys downtown Chicago campus. There was a two-month break before this started, so he was sent to Portland, Maine, to serve on a submarine patrol boat, the USS APc-94.
At Midshipman School between July and November 1944, he lived in a high-rise dorm in downtown Chicago on Lakeshore Drive. When they went out on weekend liberty, we couldnt buy a drink or pay for a meal," Howard said. "People would pay for us and so happy to do it."
Howard shipped out of New York in January 1945 on a new landing ship, LSM290, as the fifth of six officers.
They headed south, where he experienced one last submarine encounter off the coast of New Jersey before steaming through the Panama Canal and into dry dock in San Diego for repairs necessitated by sailing through a hurricane off Mexico.
While we were in dry dock, President Roosevelt died, Howard said. Then, on our way from San Francisco to Hawaii, Germany surrendered on May 8. So, now the whole emphasis of the United States military was to bring Japan to unconditional surrender.
Arriving at the Mariana Islands, they started planning for the invasion of Japan. Their ship was going to carry Navy construction battalions and heavy equipment to establish a beach head for the troop's initial landings. But, on Aug. 8, the United States dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima.
At first I was elated," Howard said. "Im going to go home. The war will be over. And then, the more I thought about it, all our future wars now are going to be by bombs that can wipe out whole cities. It didn't look very good.
Japan surrendered after a second bomb was dropped on Nagasaki. Plans to invade were switched to the occupation of Japan. Howard's ship sailed into Tokyo Bay on Sept. 14. It was anchored close enough to the signing of the Japanese surrender that the crew could view the activity through binoculars.
Howard spoke about going ashore and mingling with the Japanese people who were frightened. The first few weeks, they didnt see any women as they had been told to hide because Americans were going to abuse them.
After about a month, the Japanese realized the Americans were a peaceful people and well disciplined, so they started to come out and engage, asking for chocolate bars and trading souvenirs for American cigarettes.
Howard's ship was next docked in Yokahama, where there were many orphaned Japanese children who would come to beg for food. The Americans would give them their leftovers each evening.
One night, the children were back and signaling they were still hungry. Howard said all he could find was a gallon jar of pickles. The children had never seen pickles and were afraid until he opened the jar and ate one, proving it was good food.
Then, they followed his lead, finishing off the jar and enjoying this treat. Afterward, whenever the kids saw him on the dock they called him Pickle.
In February of 1946, the Navy demobilized. Howard was the youngest officer on the ship, so he got to stay.
Because of this, he got some prompt promotions, becoming an executive officer and gaining command of the ship. It went from six officers and 65 men to three officers and 35 men all between the ages of 18 and 22.
It was a lot of fun, Howard said. The regulations got pretty loose at that time.
After several transportation duties between Pacific islands, Howard's ship was sent to the Philippines to be decommissioned. When that was finished, he got his orders to go home June 20, 1946. It took him 30 days to get back to Grand Central Station, which included a much appreciated 10-day layover in Hawaii.
"The point I remember the most was going under the Golden Gate Bridge on a transport and thinking how lucky I am," Howard said. "I survived, and I am truly going home, as 18 months earlier I was going under the bridge in the opposite direction not knowing if Id ever come back home this way.
He took a Pullman car across the country and was greeted by his sweetheart now wife at Grand Central Station. Two months later, he was back at Dartmouth studying chemistry, later teaching there before 21 years with DuPont and 36 years as a natural gas broker and consultant.
This summer, Howard went to his 70-year reunion at Dartmouth at the age of 92. Next year, he and Ruth will celebrate 70 years of marriage.
People were ready for Eric Witherspoon's message.
The superintendent of Evanston Township High School walked into his office Wednesday and sensed it was time to speak up for unity.
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"There was a lot of confusion and even anxiety among the students that morning," Witherspoon told me. "Whatever their politics, however they felt about the outcome of the election, it was widespread. And I wanted them to feel safe and loved."
He quickly typed up a message to read during the 10 a.m. announcements.
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"Once in a while it's important that we pause and reflect on who we are and reaffirm our appreciation for one another," he began. "This morning I want to remind all of you that ETHS is a safe and welcoming place for you. You attend a school where we not only respect differences, we embrace our diversity."
ETHS is made up of around 3,300 students 43 percent of them are white, 30 percent are black, 17 percent are Hispanic, 5 percent are Asian and 3 percent identify as two or more races, according to the Illinois State Board of Education.
"We embrace one another's race and ethnicity," Witherspoon's address continued. "We embrace one another's family background, heritage, language and culture. We embrace one another's religion and your right to your own personal customs and beliefs. We embrace your sexual orientation and your gender identity. We embrace your special needs. We embrace you and value you as individual human beings."
(You can read his entire message on the Evanston Township High School site.)
"I didn't want to focus on the election," Witherspoon told me. "I wanted to focus on the kids on how they could process things and remember what they have here and what this school is all about."
Within minutes, students were approaching Witherspoon's office asking for a copy. Parents started calling and emailing, saying their kids had texted home about it.
By Saturday, when I talked to Witherspoon, he had heard from hundreds of parents and educators around the country some asking to borrow his message, others letting him know they already had.
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"I can't keep up with my email," he said. "The feedback isn't political. It's about the human spirit. This transcends politics. All of us, as Americans, know that's who we really are, and it's so important that we don't lose sight of it."
Nina Kavin, an Evanston resident whose son attends ETHS, shared Witherspoon's note on her Dear Evanston Facebook page, a group she set up last year to address gun violence in Evanston.
"I thought his words were so powerful and so beautiful and kind and necessary," Kavin told me. "I thought they needed to be heard by everybody."
Her post has reached more than 60,000 people.
"The comments are from New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Florida, Michigan, Nebraska, Ohio," she said. "Obviously it went far beyond what my page stands for. People really needed to hear it."
Witherspoon implored students to be kind to one another.
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"Redouble your support for one another," he said in his message. "And even though we cannot always control what is going on in the larger world around us, we can define our own school, our own community. Let's make this school year a year of strengthening our sense of community here at ETHS, and let's reaffirm a community legacy for all the students today and for those who will follow you at ETHS."
Kavin's son told her the school erupted in applause when Witherspoon finished talking.
"It reminds you that we have power in our own communities," she said. "We need to look to each other and make our own communities stronger. We have our own work to do right here in Evanston, so let's do it."
On Friday, Witherspoon was reading through National Connection, a daily summary of stories about education around the country.
"The top story was, 'Students responding to wave of bullying and fear after the election,'" he said. "We're seeing a lot of reports of confrontations on both sides of the political spectrum. My students' well-being was my motivation, but looking back, it was also an intervention. It was a way to say, 'That's not what we're about.'"
And it was a road map, when so many were desperate for one.
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"It was a very divisive election you'd have to have your head buried in the sand not to know that," Witherspoon said. "I just wanted to help my students move forward into a period of healing and taking care of one another."
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Twitter @heidistevens13
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Police officers guard a gas station in the 10000 block of South Michigan Avenue, where a minivan with a shot-out window is parked early Nov. 13, 2016, in Chicago. A man was shot about one block away, in the first block of East 100th Place, and made it to the gas station, where he was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital. (John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune)
Two men were killed and at least 10 other people have been wounded in shootings since mid-afternoon Sunday in Chicago, according to police.
Grayson Langdon, 25, was killed in South Shore on Sunday about 7:10 p.m., police said. He was attacked in the 7200 block of South Phillips Avenue, where emergency crews found him with a gunshot wound to the right arm and side, police said.
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Langdon was pronounced dead on the scene at 7:30 p.m., according to the medical examiner. He lived in the 7200 block of South Cregier Avenue.
About 3:40 a.m. Monday, a 26-year-old man was shot dead in Brighton Park. Police responded to the 2500 block of West 47th Street and found him on the sidewalk with gunshot wounds to the left shoulder and right leg. He was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital in critical condition and later pronounced dead. Police did not know the circumstances of the shooting, authorities said.
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Police respond to the 2500 block of West 47th Street in Brighton Park after a man was shot dead early Monday morning. Nov. 14, 2016. (WGN-TV) (Chicago Tribune)
Around 5:40 p.m. Sunday, a 17-year-old boy and a 19-year-old man were shot in the 6300 block of South King Drive in the Greater Grand Crossing area, police said. The boy was shot in the neck and taken in critical condtion to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn. The man was shot in the left forearm and taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in good condition.
In other shootings:
At 11:50 p.m., a 46-year-old man was wounded after being caught in the crossfire of a shooting in Englewood. He got himself to St Bernard Hospital with a gunshot wound to the leg and told investigators he was in the 7300 block of South Stewart Avenue when two groups began shooting at each other and he was shot. He was listed in good condition.
About 10:20 p.m., a 21-year-old man was shot in the Gage Park neighobrhood. He was standing in the 5200 block of South Troy Street when someone in the front passenger seat of a passing gray Jeep opened fire, shooting the man in the back. He went to Mount Sinai Hospital in critical condition.
About 9:50 p.m., a 38-year-old man was shot in the Kenwood neighborhood. He got himself to University of Chicago Medical Center with a graze wound to his left hand after being shot in the 1100 block of East 48th Street. No further information was immediately available.
About 9:30 p.m., a 58-year-old man was shot and seriously wounded while leaving his Little Village business, police said. He was walking to his car in the 3900 block of West Cermak Road when two people approached, one of whom was armed, and they demanded his money. A fight ensued and the would-be robber shot the man multiple times. He went to Mount Sinai Hospital in serious condition.
A 19-year-old man was wounded in a shooting about 7:40 p.m. in the 7000 block of South Emerald Avenue in the Englewood neighborhood, according to police. The man was shot in the left leg, but information about where he was treated was not immediately released. The man told police he heard shots and felt pain, and was not cooperating further with investigators, police said.
In the 3300 block of South Leavitt Avenue in the McKinley Park neighborhood, an 18-year-old man was shot in the back in a drive-by shooting just before 4:10 p.m., according to a police media notification. The mans condition was stabilized at Mount Sinai Hospital. The man told police he was walking when he came up to the mouth of an alley, a dark-colored SUV drove by and someone inside fired shots, hitting him, police said.
A 34-year-old man suffered a gunshot wound to the right hand about 3:55 p.m. in the 3300 block of West Warren Boulevard in the East Garfield Park neighborhood, according to police. The man was in his car when someone came up on foot and fired shots at him. He was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was in good condition.
In the Austin neighborhood, a 24-year-old man was shot in the ankle in the 5000 block of West Chicago Avenue just before 3 p.m., according to police. The man told police he heard a shot and felt pain from a gunshot wound. The man went to West Suburban Medical Center in Oak Park, where he was in good condition.
No one was in custody in the shootings.
State and federal health officials are seeking penalties totaling more than $100,000 from a North Side nursing home after five residents overdosed on heroin inside the facility in February, the Tribune has learned.
The residents of Continental Nursing & Rehabilitation Center were hospitalized and recovered, but at least two used heroin again hours after they were returned to the facility, even though they were supposed to be on close watch, Illinois public health department inspectors allege. One of the two overdosed again.
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The department also opened a new investigation into the facility after the Tribune requested information about a sixth drug overdose in September 2015.
In that case, a 56-year-old resident was found on the floor by his bed with five packets of white powder beside him, a Chicago police report said.
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Illinois law requires nursing homes to notify the Department of Public Health of unusual events that put patients at risk, but state officials said they learned of that case only when the Tribune filed a query about it.
The federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, or CMS, has imposed civil monetary penalties totaling $76,000 for alleged violations in the February incident.
Continental is contesting an additional $25,000 fine from the state public health department, which says the facility failed to properly monitor and treat residents with drug addictions.
State officials and industry representatives said they could recall no similar cluster of patients overdosing on heroin inside an Illinois nursing facility.
"I have never heard of that. No question that's uncommon," said Terry Sullivan, executive director of the Illinois Alliance for Living, a professional association of facilities that treat patients with mental illness and substance abuse problems.
Continental, which has housed a mix of older residents and younger adults with mental illness, did not admit deficiencies when it outlined corrective actions it would take plans that were accepted by CMS in April. "The facility has ceased admitting any residents with active substance use," its plan said.
In a brief interview with the Tribune, Continental part-owner Moishe Gubin said he was not aware of any heroin overdoses or other problems at the facility.
"If you are right," Gubin said, "it goes against what our mission has been."
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"If you look at our company historically, we generally give good care," Gubin said. "It's not lack of resources or staff, or they cheaped out and didn't take care of people. You'll never hear about that with us."
Continental is part of a rapidly growing, South Bend, Ind.-based nursing home operation that includes more than 50 facilities in eight states, records show.
Their 13 northern Illinois facilities include one that earned a top, five-star rating for overall quality from CMS. Four others, including Continental, were given a one-star quality rating, the lowest possible, and police and public health inspection records have alleged unsanitary conditions and negligent care at Continental and some other northern Illinois homes.
Medicaid and Medicare last year paid those 13 facilities a total of roughly $150 million, and the facilities reported a combined 2015 profit of $6 million, according to cost reports filed with the state. Similar data was not available for a recently added 14th northern Illinois facility.
Outside Continental's gray and white building at 5336 N. Western Ave., a sign advertises "quality nursing services for the elderly."
But the 208-bed home which last year earned $11 million from the taxpayer-financed Medicaid and Medicare programs reported to the state in March that 108 of its residents were under age 65 last year, 129 had been diagnosed with mental illnesses and 29 had felony records.
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Chicago police responded to 60 reports of alleged batteries at Continental from 2011 through 2015, a Tribune analysis of police data found.
Police also responded in 2014 when a 61-year-old patient broke his hips and collapsed a lung as he tried to escape the facility by rappelling from a 4th-floor window using six sheets tied together, records show.
Continental immediately notified the state of that event, but the paperwork fell through the cracks, state officials acknowledge, and authorities conducted no investigation at the time.
After the Tribune inquired about the case, the department dispatched an inspector who last month reported that the man was not properly supervised although he had been admitted for treatment of bipolar disorder, depression and alcohol abuse.
He had been drinking in the facility just before he tried to flee and had a blood-alcohol level of more than four times the legal limit when staff found him "on the ground moaning" with a broken glass bottle and a beer can beside him, according to the state's report.
Continental is contesting a pending civil malpractice lawsuit filed by the man's family.
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On the day of the five heroin overdoses in February, staff at Continental suspected that residents were seeking drugs from a female visitor but did not intervene or report it, a state inspection report said.
A 33-year-old resident told inspectors the visitor was a relative of a resident and sold "white powder in a small zippered baggie." The 33-year-old snorted the powder and said: "I don't remember much after that until I woke up and saw the paramedics standing over me."
Another resident who also overdosed said he paid $25 for the heroin and assured the supplier that if the drugs were "good" he could triple her money "in three days at the facility," the state public health inspection report said.
Continental was cited for not monitoring residents who returned to the facility from the hospital.
A 46-year-old woman who told a social worker she "wants to get sober and not be an addict anymore" overdosed again her first day back. Another man nodded off during his interview with an inspector, and a fellow resident said that man "got high again this morning."
In addition to the overdose incidents, police were called to Continental in October 2015 when residents alerted staff to narcotics abuse inside the facility. Staff searched rooms and recovered paraphernalia for cooking and shooting drugs that they turned over to police, records show.
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Across the country, at least two heroin overdose cases have emerged in nursing facilities since last year. In a La Porte, Ind., case that remains under police investigation, a 64-year-old woman was found dazed and bleeding from the nose after ingesting heroin at the Golden Living Center in August. And in November a southern Ohio man was charged with involuntary manslaughter after allegedly supplying his wife with a fatal dose of heroin inside a nursing facility.
"We're a drug-taking society, and it's only a matter of time before this gets into the nursing homes," said Dr. Harry Haroutunian, physician director at the Betty Ford Center in Rancho Mirage, Calif.
Continental administrator Jonathan Dixon declined to discuss heroin abuse at the facility but gave Tribune reporters a limited tour of the second floor, where the overdoses took place. He said he did not have permission from "corporate" to take reporters through other parts of the home.
Those second-floor rooms no longer house younger patients with psychiatric and substance abuse problems, Dixon said, only geriatric and post-operative residents. The rooms were freshly painted, and some beds had been removed to convert them from triple-occupancy to double-occupancy.
The complex ownership and management structures employed by Gubin and his longtime business partner Michael Blisko limit their involvement in day-to-day operations, according to Tribune interviews and testimony they gave in civil lawsuits.
The physical facilities housing Continental and other homes are owned by subsidiaries of the partners' real estate investment trust, called Strawberry Fields. Registered in the British Virgin Islands, Strawberry Fields recently raised $68 million on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange to expand operations with a goal of growing by 50 percent a year, according to its public statements.
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Each of the 13 homes in northern Illinois is operated by a separate company; those companies hire administrators to run the homes day to day. Gubin and Blisko own a combined 75 percent of the company operating Continental.
Continental and other facilities pay a separate consulting company solely owned by Gubin and Blisko to offer suggestions about management, nursing, billing and payroll practices.
The consulting company was initially called New York Boys Management, but that name caused "image trauma," Blisko testified in a civil court deposition last year. "People felt that it wasn't giving the professional identity, if you will, that it wasn't good for business," he said. The firm is now Infinity Healthcare Management, records show.
Continental paid Infinity $313,818 in consulting fees last year, while the 12 other northern Illinois facilities paid Infinity $4 million in all, state nursing-home cost reports show.
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Facility administrators are in charge of their buildings and free to disregard Infinity's recommendations, Gubin told the Tribune. He said he does not read state public health inspection reports about his homes.
"The person who is the administrator is the one who is responsible day to day," Gubin told the Tribune.
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Continental administrator Dixon later sent the Tribune an email saying: "We consistently strive to provide the highest quality of care, in a safe environment."
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Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan said Sunday that an unspecified schedule conflict will prevent him from attending a meeting with Gov. Bruce Rauner and other legislative leaders that the governor called for Monday.
Democratic Senate President John Cullerton also withdrew from the meeting.
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"The Senate president looks forward to meeting with the governor and Republican leaders. But it would not be productive if we don't have a full complement. Hopefully, we can reschedule for Tuesday. The Senate president is available," Cullerton spokesman John Patterson said in a statement Sunday.
The governor's office said the meeting will go on without the Democrats and expressed hope that they will reconsider.
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The House speaker issued a brief statement late Sunday afternoon: "A short time ago, I determined a schedule conflict will prevent a meeting with the governor and other legislative leaders. We will continue to work to schedule a meeting and look forward to getting an agenda for the meeting from the governor."
Rauner invited Madigan and Cullerton to the meeting along with Senate Republican leader Christine Radogno and House Republican leader Jim Durkin.
Lawmakers are scheduled to return to Springfield this week for their annual veto session, following a bitter campaign season in which Republicans and Democrats spent tens of millions of dollars on state legislative races, with attack ads targeting Rauner and Madigan.
Rauner said Friday that he wants to reach a budget deal with Democrats in the coming weeks. State government has operated without a complete budget for nearly 18 months. A temporary stopgap spending measure expires at month's end.
Hundreds of people attend a District 211 special board meeting on Dec. 7, 2015, to discuss the settlement the Palatine-based school district approved the week before to provide locker room access to a transgender student. Many people held signs that read Separate Is Not Equal and #WeStandWithHer. (James C. Svehla / Chicago Tribune)
As pundits scramble to untangle the implications of a Donald Trump presidency on a host of public policies, among the big unknowns is whether he'll seek to dismantle transgender student access protections provided by the Obama administration.
Current legal challenges to those policies could render them vulnerable, experts agree, though Trump himself has given little indication of his intentions.
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And while some advocates initially welcomed the U.S. Supreme Court's recent decision to hear a transgender student bathroom access case from Virginia, many are wary after Trump's election. It is all but certain he'll choose a conservative judge to replace the late Justice Antonin Scalia.
"I think everybody is feeling pretty nervous," said Owen Daniel-McCarter, executive director of Illinois Safe Schools Alliance, a nonprofit that works with schools on LGBTQ issues.
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Since the election, the Chicago group has fielded questions about what the future might hold for issues like bathroom access, medical coverage and the ability to change genders on driver's licenses and passports.
Yet, according to the alliance, more than 25 percent of Illinois students are in gender-inclusive schools, and Daniel-McCarter said such progress is difficult to reverse.
"The train has left the station, and the question for districts is, are you getting on or waiting for someone to put you on it?" he asked.
In a landmark case in the northwest suburbs, the state's largest high school district granted a transgender student access to the girls locker room in January following a contentious battle with the U.S. Department of Education, fiery school board meetings and threats from the government of litigation and loss of millions in federal aid.
Palatine-based Township High School District 211 finally settled with federal education authorities after they found the district had violated Title IX, the law that bans sex discrimination in schools, by denying the student full locker room access. The district installed private changing areas.
A high-ranking Department of Education official called the agreement a "civil rights victory for all of us." But months later, a students' and parents' group sued District 211 and the federal government. A ruling in that case could come soon.
In the separate case the U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear next year, that of Gavin Grimm, a transgender student who sued over access to the boys bathroom, justices are expected to take up the question of whether Title IX protections extend to gender identity, as the Obama administration has argued.
"This case presents difficult issues that schools are grappling with," said Adam Romero, a law professor at UCLA's Williams Institute, which focuses on gender identity issues. "On the one hand, I get that some people may not be comfortable using a restroom or locker room with someone with different anatomy. But on the other hand, many schools and workplaces have allowed transgender people to use the facilities that match their gender identity without any issue at all."
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Romero said excluding transgender students "can have a profoundly negative impact on their well-being and education."
Ed Yohnka is spokesman for the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois, which is representing the unidentified District 211 student. He said it's "impossible to know" what Trump's impact on the issue might be.
Trump's transition team did not respond to requests for comment. The president-elect said little on the matter on the campaign trail, though when asked on the "Today" show which bathroom transgender people should use, he responded that they should use the bathroom that they feel is appropriate.
Vice President-elect Mike Pence, however, faced backlash last year as Indiana governor for supporting a so-called religious freedom law that critics said allowed businesses to deny service to gay and transgender people. According to recent reports, Pence has indicated support for local control of transgender issues.
Religious advocacy groups such as Alliance Defending Freedom were pleased at the Supreme Court's interest in the case, said Gary McCaleb, lead attorney in the lawsuit against District 211.
"Locker rooms are there to protect privacy ... not to affirm a person's self-perception of their sexuality," he said.
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School districts nationwide will be closely monitoring the Supreme Court's action, said attorney Jennifer Smith, of the Chicago law firm Franczek Radelet. The firm represents close to 100 districts in Illinois, including District 211.
The high court provides "an opportunity for clarity," she said. "But nothing is certain by the Supreme Court taking it ... and with the new administration, it's just very up in the air."
Some Chicago-area districts, including New Trier District 203 and Plainfield District 202, did not adopt a formal policy but instead address the needs of transgender students individually, officials from both districts said.
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"But as with a lot of things in education, there's the legal requirement and then there is our overall mission, which is to educate all students and to provide a safe and respectful environment for all students," said Timothy Hayes, a New Trier assistant superintendent.
For many transgender rights supporters who fear a Trump administration could undo years of progress under Obama, some hope still rests in the Illinois Human Rights Act, whose protections were extended to gender identity in 2006.
Of the 189 charges of discrimination filed in the past 10 years related to gender identity, 12 involved educational institutions, said Illinois Human Rights Commission spokesman Michael Theodore. Four were filed by students alleging the denial of preferred bathroom or locker room access in elementary or secondary schools, he said.
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Alex McCray was one such student. His downstate Williamsville district eventually agreed this year to allow transgender students to use the restrooms and locker rooms consistent with their gender identity, records show.
"It goes back to being acknowledged, to being treated equally," said McCray, now 19. "It's incredible because just a year ago I was doing it alone, at a single-school level in a small town, and now it's all the way up to the Supreme Court."
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SPRINGFIELD A week after their respective political operations wrapped up tens of millions of dollars in ads vilifying the other guy, Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan will be in the same room to resume discussions on Illinois' economic future.
The Tuesday morning Capitol huddle will take place after days of political posturing on both sides.
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Coming out of last week's election and looking toward his own re-election in 2018, Rauner called for a meeting with the four legislative leaders, and his surrogates quickly put out news releases in support of the request. Not that numerous closed-door gatherings have produced much during the long budget impasse beyond a stopgap funding agreement that expires at year's end.
But asking for a meeting allowed Rauner to look like he's attempting to get something done as state's chief executive. Madigan, meanwhile, didn't respond until Sunday evening, and his spokesman didn't offer much of an excuse for declining beyond a generic scheduling conflict. That prompted Democratic Senate President John Cullerton to pull out, observing that it wouldn't be a very productive meeting without everyone in the fold.
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And so Rauner went ahead and met privately Monday with Republican legislative leaders, with Democrats' refusal to participate playing into the governor's argument that they're not bargaining in good faith. By afternoon, however, Madigan moved to correct the optics. The speaker said he'd be able to huddle Tuesday, with his office noting that it was Madigan who decided what time the meeting would occur.
So far, the post-election atmosphere is a lot like it was before voters weighed in last week, awarding a net gain of four House seats and two Senate seats to Republicans. Rauner and his deep-pocketed allies covered much of the cost for the GOP campaigns, while Madigan's Democrats were backed by money from labor unions and trial lawyers.
After all that money was spent, the sides may now be more entrenched, beholden to the political agendas of those who helped them keep their jobs.
Meanwhile, the state's historic budget stalemate has been going on nearly 18 months, sending debt soaring and threatening everything from universities to meal plans for the elderly.
The two sides agreed to a stopgap spending plan in June, which had the dual benefit of letting lawmakers hit the campaign trail while keeping programs afloat through the end of the year. But that's set to expire in six weeks, and there's little indication either side is prepared to back off of the positions that's driven the divide.
Rauner still is pushing for economic reforms as part of a larger deal, saying budget cuts and a tax increase alone won't put the state on a solid long-term financial footing. While Rauner's wish list has changed over time, the governor frequently has referenced limiting payouts for workers hurt on the job and curbing collective bargaining rights.
Following Tuesday's election, Madigan reiterated that Democrats "will continue to protect the middle class."
"Illinois residents want strong schools, funding for domestic violence shelters and veterans' homes, and a strong middle class with good wages," Madigan said last week. "I hope Republicans will finally join us to protect these priorities and help deliver the services families are counting on."
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Republicans on Monday countered that it's time for Democrats to put forth their own plan, saying there have been several attempts to come to an agreement through working groups only to be stymied by leadership. They rejected the notion that Madigan may be less willing to cut a deal after he was the subject of repeated campaign attacks.
"He's got a job to do on behalf of the people of Illinois," said Senate Republican leader Christine Radogno, of Lemont. "That's insane to think that because he lost seats, he shouldn't have to participate. That's an absolute dereliction of duty."
The back-and-forth comes as lawmakers return to Springfield this week to deal with legislation the governor rejected or attempted to re-write through vetoes. House GOP leader Jim Durkin, of Western Springs, said that work should be put off until a budget agreement is reached, though the Senate planned to take up at least one major veto on Tuesday of a measure aimed at making voter registration automatic in Illinois.
The legislation received strong bipartisan support, passing 86-30 in the House and 50-7 in the Senate. Democrats view Tuesday's planned override as a test of Rauner's strength and whether he will be able to make the veto stick despite previous support from Republicans.
mcgarcia@chicagotribune.com
Twitter @moniquegarcia
Mayor Rahm Emanuel on Monday promised to protect immigrants from deportation, even as president-elect Donald Trump has pledged to remove as many as 3 million immigrants who have criminal records and are living in the country illegally.
For more than three decades, Chicago has been a sanctuary city, where local laws prohibit government workers and police officers from asking about residents' immigration status. The mayor said that tradition would continue.
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"To all those who are, after Tuesday's election, very nervous and filled with anxiety as we've spoken to, you are safe in Chicago, you are secure in Chicago and you are supported in Chicago," Emanuel said. "Chicago will always be a sanctuary city."
That vow is running headlong into Trump, who campaigned on blocking federal funding to sanctuary cities, ramping up deportations, increasing prison sentences for those who re-enter and building a wall along the Mexican border.
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But the rise of Trump and the nation's rapidly changing political landscape provides a mayor who's been trying to rebuild his image with a political opportunity in a city full of immigrants and diverse neighborhoods.
Emanuel, after all, is the guy who famously offered up the credo "never let a serious crisis go to waste" as he prepared to push President-elect Barack Obama's Great Recession economic agenda in 2008. In this case, Trump's inflammatory rhetoric toward Mexicans and his immigration policies give Emanuel a political rallying point among Latinos after the mayor's popularity dropped sharply following the Laquan McDonald police shooting controversy.
Many Latinos, however, still look at Emanuel with a wary eye on immigration, given his relatively late religion on the issue. In the Obama White House, Emanuel advised against pursuing immigration reform in that first year, having once called it the "third rail of politics." In the Clinton White House, Emanuel suggested hard-line immigration policies to achieve "record deportations of criminal aliens."
Twenty years later, Trump has talked about the same target Emanuel backed for Clinton deporting immigrants with criminal records who are in the U.S. illegally.
"What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people, probably 2 million, it could be even 3 million, we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate," Trump told "60 Minutes" in an interview that aired Sunday night. "But we're getting them out of our country. They're here illegally."
For his part, Emanuel has not spoken to any of these specific policy proposals from Trump and the mayor has not said he'd protect immigrants with criminal records who are here illegally. Instead, Emanuel has struck a more general tone of sympathizing with immigrants who remain fearful of a Trump presidency.
"Now, administrations may change, but our values and principles as it relates to inclusion does not," Emanuel said at a Monday event with immigrants' rights advocates to discuss expanding mental health services for those worried Trump will deport them or their families. "People from all faiths, all backgrounds and all parts of the world have beaten their path to the city of Chicago because Chicago offers them and more importantly, as the son and the grandson of an immigrant their children and grandchildren a chance at the American dream."
Trump proposals
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In his "Contract with the American Voter" prior to his election, Trump said he would take three actions on immigration during his first day in office: Cancel all federal funding to sanctuary cities, start deporting more than 2 million "criminal illegal immigrants" and suspend immigration from "terror-prone regions where vetting cannot safely occur."
During his first 100 days in office, Trump has said he will introduce legislation to build a wall on the country's southern border with Mexico, enact a minimum two-year mandatory federal prison sentence for those who re-enter the country after being deported and increase penalties for overstaying a visa.
It's unclear how many of those priorities Trump will push hard for, and how many turn out to be little more than campaign rhetoric or ideas he decides not to pursue while spending his post-victory political capital elsewhere.
Cutting off all federal funding to sanctuary cities would require action by a Republican-controlled Congress and, if passed, could cost Chicago significantly. This year, the city is receiving a little more than $1 billion in federal grant funding for myriad programs, including early childhood education, transportation, policing, health initiatives, public assistance programs and disaster management. Next year, the city is counting on more than $1.3 billion from the federal government.
The Justice Department released a report in May saying the city could stand to lose nearly $29 million in annual justice grants if found to be in violation of federal laws on detaining people to be turned over to immigration agents for possible deportation.
Democratic U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley, of Chicago, said he worries about Trump's threat to turn off that federal spigot, but said he thinks the new president ultimately will soft-pedal that while seeking congressional backing for other initiatives.
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"In the final analysis, though, I think if the president wants to do what he talks about, for example with a big infrastructure package, he's going to need support across the aisle," Quigley said on WLS-AM 890's "Connected to Chicago" show that aired Sunday. "And if he says none for Chicago, he's not going to get any support from anybody in Chicago, frankly in the Chicagoland area."
Emanuel has said he's not worried about a Trump administration penalizing Chicago for its political resistance to the Republican's policies, but the mayor's immigration remarks will put him at odds with a new White House where he already will find his clout immeasurably diminished after eight years of nearly unfettered access to the Obama administration.
Emanuel has supported Obama's immigration polices, including the president's 2014 executive order. That policy, which the Supreme Court blocked in June with a 4-4 tie, would have allowed as many as 5 million immigrants here without legal permission to apply for a program that would protect them from deportation and offer them work permits.
The mayor also has pledged to stand up for so-called "Dreamers," those who benefited from Obama's Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals that offered legal protection to about 742,000 people who were brought to the U.S. as children and stayed here illegally. Trump said during the campaign he would rescind that executive order that created DACA.
On Monday, DACA beneficiary Luis Gomez, who came to Chicago from Mexico as an 11-year-old and is now studying at the Illinois Institute of Technology, said he worries about his ability to continue his studies and get a job if Trump follows through on that threat. And in an illustration of the difficulties anti-Trump forces face in building a unified front in the wake of Democrat Hillary Clinton's failed presidential bid, Gomez scolded Emanuel and U.S. Rep. Gutierrez, D-Chicago.
"Rep. Gutierrez, if unity is to be achieved, you need to stop categorizing and separating the undocumented community between deportables and Dreamers. I demand that you stand behind all immigrants, not just immigrants without a criminal record," Gomez said as Emanuel and Gutierrez stood directly behind him. "Mayor Emanuel, the welcoming city ordinance only protects immigrants without criminal records. I demand you extend protection in the city ordinance to those who belong to my community with a record."
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Emanuel has not promised to protect immigrants with criminal records who are living in the U.S. without legal permission. And Gutierrez said such people should be deported.
Years ago, Gutierrez blamed Emanuel for Obama not taking up immigration reform early in his first term. During Emanuel's first run for mayor, Gutierrez recorded automated phone calls against him and appeared in Spanish-language TV ads to proclaim, "When Rahm Emanuel could have used his power to help us, he turned his back to us and our most vulnerable families."
Since then, Gutierrez has buried the hatchet with Emanuel, as the mayor has shared the congressman's position on immigration issues. Emanuel also has enjoyed widespread support from the City Council's Latino aldermen.
Sanctuary policies
Emanuel's public statements reaffirming Chicago's sanctuary city status come as the mayors of New York, Los Angeles, Seattle, Philadelphia, Minneapolis and other major cities also have done so since Trump's election.
The morning after Trump's victory, Emanuel took the rare step of giving a speech at the start of the City Council meeting. The mayor argued the multicultural slate of politicians who won in Illinois on Nov. 8 shows the strength of the immigrant ideals he said give the area its vitality.
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Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Emanuel said he understands how Trump's win has heightened the anxiety of immigrants who are living in the country without permission and pledged to fight forcefully for immigrants' rights in light of the anti-immigrant rhetoric Trump used throughout his campaign.
On Sunday, Emanuel issued a statement urging immigrants concerned about their rights to call the city's 311 center to get information about legal resources and other programs at their disposal.
Chicago's status as a sanctuary city stretches to 1985, when Mayor Harold Washington issued an executive order prohibiting city agencies from inquiring about immigration status when providing services. That included police not asking crime victims or witnesses about their immigration status.
Emanuel went a step further in 2012, sponsoring a City Council-approved ordinance that said Chicago police could turn over information to federal immigration agents on immigrants only if they are wanted on a criminal warrant or have been convicted of a serious crime. This year, the City Council approved an Emanuel-endorsed ordinance to provide municipal ID cards to immigrants who are in the country without permission.
The Chicago law prohibits police from providing U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement officials access to people who are in the Police Department's custody, unless officers are "acting pursuant to a legitimate law enforcement purpose that is unrelated to the enforcement of a civil immigration law." In practice, that means police aren't supposed to turn over immigrants living in the U.S. without permission unless they are wanted on a criminal warrant or have serious criminal convictions.
Chicago's law also prohibits officers from allowing ICE agents to use their facilities for interviews or investigation. And it bars on-duty officers from responding to ICE inquiries or talking to ICE officials about a person's custody status or release date.
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bruthhart@chicagotribune.com
Hundreds of Rutgers University students march to protest President-elect Donald Trump's policies and to ask school officials to denounce his plans on Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2016, in New Brunswick, N.J. (Mel Evans / AP)
NEW YORK Immigrants, their advocates and others opposing a Donald Trump presidency continued to protest Sunday, speaking out against the president-elect's support of deportation and other measures.
Organizers in Manhattan carried signs in English and Spanish saying things like "Hate won't make us great," and chanted, "We are here to stay."
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More than 1,000 people joined the march that started mid-afternoon and extended into the evening.
It was the latest in days of demonstrations across the country, and even throughout the world. Protests were held Sunday in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Philadelphia and more cities.
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Several hundred protesters Sunday marched around Philadelphia's City Hall and then down Market Street to Independence Mall, carrying signs and chanting "Donald Trump has got to go!" and "This is what democracy looks like."
In Los Angeles, a few hundred people gathered outside CNN's Los Angeles headquarters, and in San Francisco, hundreds of people, including many families with children, marched from Golden Gate Park to Ocean Beach chanting "Love trumps hate!" By nightfall, a few hundred people marched across downtown San Francisco's main street, blocking traffic at an intersection when they held a sit-down protest.
Elsewhere in California, about 800 people marched through Sacramento and thousands others formed a human chain around the nearly 3.5-mile perimeter of Oakland's Lake Merritt. Rallies in Oakland have at times become unruly, but those who came to the lake held hands and chanted, "We reject the president-elect."
In Oregon, protesters marched through Portland again Sunday night following a gathering of anti-Trump demonstrators earlier in the evening. Television footage showed dozens of chanting but peaceful marchers moving through downtown streets. Sunday night's protest came after police said they arrested 71 people late Saturday and early Sunday during downtown protests.
Demonstrations also took place internationally. On Saturday, a group of Mexicans at statue representing independence in Mexico City expressed their concerns about a possible wave of deportations. One school teacher said it would add to the "unrest" that's already in Mexico. About 300 people protested Trump's election as the next American president outside the U.S. Embassy near the landmark Brandenburg Gate in Berlin.
Mostly, the demonstrations were peaceful. However, in Portland, Oregon, a man was shot and wounded Saturday morning during a confrontation. Police arrested two teenagers in the shooting.
Associated Press
Kelly Williams (left) and Elaina Brown (right), Child Protective Services employees, are charged with manslaughter and child abuse in the death of a 3-year-old Detroit boy. (Detroit Police Department/AP)
DETROIT Prosecutors on Monday took the rare step of charging a social worker and her boss with manslaughter and child abuse, alleging they neglected to do everything required to protect a 3-year-old Detroit boy who died.
Child Protective Services worker Elaina Brown and her supervisor, Kelly Williams, were arraigned on charges of involuntary manslaughter, second-degree child abuse and neglect in the death of Aaron Minor.
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Prosecutors allege that after identifying Aaron as vulnerable, Brown and Williams failed to provide a safety plan, ask police to conduct a safety check or file a juvenile court petition on Aaron's behalf.
Deanna Kelley, the attorney representing Kelly Williams, said Aaron's death was "unspeakable," but every tragedy isn't "the result of a crime." Kelley added she doesn't understand why prosecutors would charge people "who have dedicated their lives to helping and protecting children."
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"Human nature is to want to hold someone accountable," she said. "What's so scary is to charge them with an intentional act ... when you disagree with a judgment call."
The boy's decomposing body was found in his mother's apartment in June while she was in a hospital psychiatric unit. Deanna Minor was charged in August with murder and child abuse. A competency hearing is set for Nov. 30.
Brown and Williams have been suspended with pay. Michigan Department of Health and Human Services spokesman Bob Wheaton said officials are fully cooperating with the investigation.
Wayne County prosecutors say Brown, acting on a referral from Deanna Minor's mental health worker, visited Minor and her son in April and found the food in the home to be inadequate. Brown spoke to her supervisor after the visit and sent a letter asking Minor to contact Child Protective Services, but prosecutors allege the mother didn't do so.
Authorities say Brown never saw the Minors again, and both Brown and Williams were "grossly negligent and reckless in performing their duties." Charging state social service workers, they contend, is a rare but necessary step in this case.
"We must seek to hold these defendants responsible for their alleged inaction," prosecutor Kym Worthy said in a statement. "The ultimate result in this case was the death of a child that never should have happened."
Brown and Williams are due back in court next Monday.
Associated Press
LONDON Prosecutors were finally able to question WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange Monday about a possible sex crime in Sweden six years ago.
They did not comment on the closed-door proceedings at the Ecuadorean Embassy in London where Assange has lived for more than four years to avoid extradition to Sweden and possibly to the United States.
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The long-delayed interview is expected to continue Tuesday and possibly extend beyond that. Assange's version of events, and a possible DNA sample, will shape Swedish prosecutors' decision on whether to charge him.
The questioning was being led by an Ecuadorean prosecutor in the presence of Swedish prosecutor Ingrid Isgren and a Swedish police investigator.
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The Swedish investigation into possible sexual crimes began when two women Assange met in Sweden in 2010 complained to authorities. Some of the alleged misconduct is no longer being investigated by police because of the statute of limitations.
Assange is, however, being questioned about the possible rape of one of the women who complained. He has not been indicted or charged but is the subject of an international arrest warrant.
Prosecutors say no immediate decision on the future of Assange's case will be made on Monday. They also said no public statements will be made after the questioning.
Assange's Swedish defense lawyer, Per Samuelsson, complained that he had been barred from the hearing.
"I'm not on the list of persons that Ecuador has drawn up and allowed to be present," Samuelsson told the Swedish national broadcaster SVT. "An Ecuadorean lawyer has taken up this question as a formal issue in the introduction of the hearing."
WikiLeaks released a statement also complaining about the Swedish lawyer being excluded and said Assange cooperated "fully" with investigators.
Assange has denied wrongdoing and says he fears being extradited to the U.S. because of his WikiLeaks work. It isn't known if he faces a secret grand jury indictment in the U.S.
The sex crime allegations were made shortly after Assange and WikiLeaks became well-known worldwide for releasing hundreds of thousands of pages of classified U.S. government documents.
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One Swedish woman said Assange intentionally damaged a condom and pinned her down while having sex. A second woman said Assange had sex with her without a condom while she was asleep. In Sweden, having sex with an unconscious, drunk or sleeping person can lead to a rape conviction punishable by up to six years in prison.
A Swedish investigation into the crimes was launched, then dropped for lack of evidence, and then started again as prosecutors sought to question Assange about possible molestation and rape.
By then Assange was in Britain, making it harder for Swedish prosecutors to question him. They sought an international arrest warrant for him that was issued in November 2010.
Assange surrendered to police in London and was freed on bail, receiving support from a wide range of celebrities including filmmakers Oliver Stone and Michael Moore.
He then moved into the Ecuadorean Embassy in London in June 2012, putting him out of reach of British authorities.
He has remained in control of WikiLeaks, which released hacked emails relating to the Hillary Clinton campaign in the final weeks of her failed White House run.
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Civil rights activist Peter Tatchell said outside the embassy that he and others had gathered to show solidarity with Assange and WikiLeaks. He said Assange was being "hounded" because of WikiLeaks' work in shedding light on the "terrible things" done by the U.S. government and others.
Some supporters hoisted pro-Assange banners outside the embassy.
Associated Press
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gestures as he opens the weekly cabinet meeting at his Jerusalem office. (Gali Tibbon / AP)
JERUSALEM A senior Israeli Cabinet minister on Monday said the election of Donald Trump has helped create an opportunity for Israel to abandon its stated commitment to the establishment of a Palestinian state.
The remarks by Naftali Bennett reflect sentiment in the nationalist Israeli right wing that Trump's election could usher in a new era of relations with the United States. While the two countries are close allies, relations were sometimes tense between President Barack Obama and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu because of their vastly different world views.
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Bennett last week welcomed Trump's election, predicting that "the special relationship" with the U.S. would grow stronger and noting that the Republican campaign platform had no mention of a Palestinian state. "The era of a Palestinian state is over," he declared at the time.
Speaking to foreign reporters on Monday, Bennett was more cautious, citing an order by Netanyahu for his Cabinet not to talk about the election in public. But he made clear that he will push his own government to rethink its commitment to Palestinian independence.
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"The combination of the changes in the United States, in Europe and the region provide Israel with a unique opportunity to reset and rethink everything," Bennett said.
"It's no secret that I think that the notion of setting up a Palestine in the heart of Israel is a profound mistake," he added. "I believe that we have to bring alternative new ideas instead of the Palestinian state approach."
Though Bennett said he didn't know whether Trump would support that view, he said it's critical that Israel now clearly define its own vision.
"My expectation is not from anyone abroad," he said. "After many years, the Israeli government has to decide what do we want."
Bennett's comments were also an indicator of the pressure Netanyahu could soon face to abandon his commitment to the "two-state solution" favored by Obama and the international community.
For two decades, the international community has been pushing for a negotiated peace deal that would include the establishment of a Palestinian state in the West Bank, east Jerusalem and Gaza Strip areas captured by Israel in the 1967 Mideast war.
The thinking was that Israel's continued occupation of millions of Palestinians would create a demographic time bomb in which Arabs would eventually outnumber Jews, threatening Israel's status as a democracy with a Jewish majority.
After opposing Palestinian independence for most of his career, Netanyahu reluctantly endorsed the idea shortly after Obama took office in 2009. But critics, including Obama, have said that continued Israeli settlement on occupied territories have undercut this goal, and the Obama administration has at times questioned Netanyahu's commitment to seeking peace.
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Bennett leads the Jewish Home party, a coalition partner that is affiliated with the West Bank settler movement. He is one of the most influential voices in Israeli politics, and both his party and most members of Netanyahu's Likud oppose Palestinian statehood on either religious or security grounds.
Bennett has instead called for annexing parts of the West Bank and granting the Palestinians in other parts expanded autonomy, with new roads, office parks and economic opportunities, with Israel retaining overall security control.
Israeli hard-liners welcomed Trump's election last week, noting the strong support for Israel in his campaign platform and the many pro-Israel officials who advised him during his campaign. Their spirits were further boosted after a Trump adviser, Jason Greenblatt, told an Israeli radio station last week that his boss doesn't think West Bank settlements are an "obstacle to peace."
Following Greenblatt's comments, Cabinet Minister Ofir Akunis, a close Netanyahu associate, called for a renewed wave of settlement construction.
But such sentiments may have been premature.
Trump's unpredictability has raised concerns that he might change his attitudes once in office. Over the weekend, for instance, Trump told the Wall Street Journal that he would like to help broker a solution to the conflict "for humanity's sake."
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In an interview with "Israel Today," a free daily owned by Republican super-donor Sheldon Adelson, Trump said he believed his administration can play "a significant role" in helping the Mideast parties reach an agreement.
Netanyahu told his Cabinet on Sunday that he would soon be meeting Trump. He ordered his Cabinet and lawmakers to avoid speaking to the media about the election while the incoming U.S. administration formulates its policies.
Associated Press
In a July 2016 file photo, Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, right, arrives with his military lawyer, Lt. Col. Franklin Rosenblatt on Fort Bragg, N.C. A military judge is delaying the trial of Bergdahl on charges of desertion and misbehavior before the enemy. (Andrew Craft / AP)
FORT BRAGG, N.C. A military officer testified Monday that he saw another soldier shot in the head during the 2009 search for U.S. Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, who's accused of endangering his comrades when he walked off his post in Afghanistan.
The testimony came at a pretrial hearing at which an Army judge also agreed to delay Bergdahl's trial by several months until May 15, 2017.
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Prosecutors are arguing that the judge should allow evidence of two wounded soldiers' injuries into the case to help them show that Bergdahl's disappearance effectively put other military members in harm's way.
Bergdahl is charged with desertion and misbehavior before the enemy, the latter of which carries a maximum penalty of life in prison.
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U.S. Air Force Maj. John Marx testified about a firefight on July 8, 2009, when he and several other U.S. military members were seeking information on Bergdahl's whereabouts, with members of the Afghan National Army. They were attacked after setting up a checkpoint near a town in Afghanistan.
One of the two wounded soldiers cited by prosecutors is U.S. Army National Guard Sgt. First Class Mark Allen. Prosecutors said he was shot in the head and suffered a traumatic brain injury that has left him in a wheel chair. Another soldier had hand injuries and required surgery because of a rocket-propelled grenade.
Marx, who said the mission's sole purpose was to search for Bergdahl, testified that he was sitting next to Allen as bullets flew overhead.
"I looked at him, then I see a trickle of blood coming down his head," Marx testified. Asked where Allen was wounded, Marx pointed at his temples and said: "Right through his head."
Marx testified that he later carried Allen to the medevac helicopter, describing it as "probably one of the toughest things I've ever done in my life."
Bergdahl, dressed in a white shirt and blue pants, appeared stoic as he listened to Monday's testimony.
Prosecutors have written in a motion that the injuries will help them show that Bergdahl endangered his comrades, one of the elements of the misbehavior before the enemy charge. They asked the judge to allow them to use the evidence in their case.
Defense attorneys have argued in motions that Bergdahl was not responsible for the men's injuries, writing: "Allen's injuries were directly caused by the Taliban, not by SGT Bergdahl."
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Further testimony and arguments are expected Monday afternoon.
Before the testimony on the soldiers' injuries, Army Col. Jeffery Nance decided to push the trial back to May after prosecutors requested a delay. They cited the pace at which they're able to get approval to give the defense classified evidence.
Defense attorneys also informed the judge that they were still waiting on software, computers and security equipment that would allow them to review some of the sensitive material.
Nance expressed frustration and told prosecutors that he would call military officials as witnesses at a pretrial hearing in December if some of the issues with classified information aren't resolved.
"Here's my problem folks ... We will nickel and dime this until we're not trying this case until 2020," he said.
Bergdahl, who's from Hailey, Idaho, walked off his post in Afghanistan in 2009 and was held captive by the Taliban and its allies for five years. The Obama administration's decision to swap prisoners for his return was heavily criticized by some Republicans.
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Associated Press
Democrats are rending their garments, bemoaning their failure to connect with rural and small-town America. They are supposed to feel guilty about insufficient empathy for the industrial heartland. Perhaps, but before they don sackcloth and ashes they might want to consider that this election as much as anything else was a candidate failure.
We will say it once more: Vice President Joe Biden would have won this going away. Hillary Clinton did offer a jobs program, a debt-free college tuition plan, a middle-class tax cut, etc. All of these would have helped the Trump voters far more than the urban poor or coastal elites. These voters either didn't believe her or didn't like her. The blowback to dynastic policies that Jeb Bush got in the GOP primary, Clinton got in the general election. (In that sense, the primary was "rigged" to favor a weak but "inevitable" candidate.) Democrats don't need to beat themselves up; they picked a losing candidate just as the GOP did in 2008 and 2012.
GOP "elites" meanwhile are being harangued for cultural insensitivity and economic callousness. On the latter count, let's get real: It's a lie that immigrants and trade caused their problems. No one should apologize for refusing to sell snake oil. (Trump ironically was the one to offer pro-business, supply-side tax cuts, so maybe this is not about economics?) What about the cultural insensitivity claim? Excuse me, but that's bonkers on multiple counts.
First, the GOP is the older, white male party. It does dominate in the South. When Sens. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., and Richard Burr, R-N.C., get re-elected, it's hard to argue that the GOP's educated leadership has lost touch with its grassroots. Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker was the quintessential blue-collar Midwesterner. He got knocked out of the primaries early on. The GOP has bent over backward to the point of lunacy (e.g., arguing that states should not implement gay marriage) to cater to the electorate that eventually went with Trump.
Second, George W. Bush didn't like East Coast elites either, but he was no racist, no misogynist and did not pit one group against another. He won rural whites and got an estimated 44 percent of the Hispanic vote. He did not demean or paw women. No presidential candidate has ever behaved and spoken the way Trump did. The rest of the country was entitled to assume his vulgarity, lies, bias and cruelty would be disqualifying. That they were not, but instead were rationalized, minimized or even lauded does not mean the anti-Trump side of America was dense. It means they thought better of their fellow Americans.
In short, Republican "elites" and Democrats would have disagreed with Trump's policy prescriptions (which they took seriously silly them!) but not been shocked or horrified by his win had this been a battle of policy plans. They were shocked and horrified because Trump won these people over by playing to their worst instincts. He dealt out xenophobia, racism, misogyny and contempt for science and the Trumpkins ate it up. Trump defenders, and defenders of Trump supporters, argue this wasn't about white nationalism or male resentment. If so, why were these the main tools Trump used to amp up his support?
Trump did what Republicans have long bemoaned. He played on class resentment. He told his voters America's economy is a fixed pie; if "elites" get more, then they get less. He cultivated excuses for white, rural social decay and economic stagnation on behalf of voters who would surely reject such rationalizations for African-American poverty.
Remember, a good deal of the opposition to Trump on the right went to his character and the noxious hatreds he was stirring up in the populace. Objecting to his appeals does not make one culturally insensitive; it makes one a decent person.
The way Trump won the race with zero respect for the truth, with contempt for nonwhite voters, with assaults on our democracy the #NeverTrump forces fear will now be the rule, not the exception, in presidential politics. That he won (it worked!) is no cause for recriminations against the #NeverTrump forces. It actually proves their point: Public figures who behave this way tear the fabric of our country and undermine democratic values. And Trump has done just that because it was the only way he knew to get the approval of the Trumpkins. He was certain they were not above vile tactics; he was right. Congratulations, Trumpkins: You never go wrong underestimating the American people.
Just as his critics predicted, however, Trump's vague and fantastical promises are already colliding with reality. Obamacare isn't going to get repealed at least not all of it, he says. Rounding up 11-12 milllion people does not seem to be on his list of top priorities. His team is coming to the realization the Iran deal will not be ripped up on his first day in office. If Trumpkins discover Trump is just another pol who sold them a bill of goods, how will they react? We will find out in the months ahead.
Some thoughts about ideology are in order. Just as Democrats need a sane Republican Party, Republicans need a responsible Democratic Party. Should the Democratic Party decide Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., who marketed many of the same economic fallacies as Trump, was "right," Democrats may well go off the ideological deep end, giving Americans the choice between right-wing populism and democratic socialism. No thanks.
We in the center-right sincerely hope that doesn't happen. The best way to constrain Trump would be a viable, appealing center-left alternative with whom he must compete for votes. If, however, the Democratic Party re-visits its pre-Bill Clinton errors, there nevertheless is a backup.
If one party goes far, far left and the other goes nativist-populist, the center-left and center-right would need to join forces and put forth an alternative that fills in a huge ideological gap. They would:
- Refuse to favor one-half of America over the other;
- Advance responsible internationalism;
- Understand the benefits and the downsides of centralized power,
- Take the Constitution seriously;
- Support civil rights and practice civility;
- Defend free markets but also programs that combat poverty and promote upward mobility; and
- Urge we invest in human capital so we can thrive in a globalized economy, not inveigh against modernity.
If neither party is going to support that kind of approach, there likely will be a crisis in governance and a felt need for an alternative. Those who voted for Hillary Clinton and those who voted for Mitt Romney -- but saw through the flights of political fancy Sanders and Trump indulged in will need to find each other, champion these common-sense polices and practice public civility. They might even need to form a new political party.
We need determined champions of moderation, fervent defenders of centrism and an unwavering commitment to decency, kindness and empathy. That's ultimately the only place from which to govern a complicated, diverse country and to cool tempers and dampen resentments. Eventually, we hope, that's where this will all wind up.
Washington Post
Jennifer Rubin writes the Right Turn blog for The Post, offering reported opinion from a conservative perspective.
After Donald Trump said he would get a special prosecutor to look into Hillary Clinton's alleged deletion of e-mails on a private server, he added that she would 'be in jail' if he was in charge of the law. Oct. 10, 2016. (C-SPAN) (Chicago Tribune)
You may recall this exchange in the Oct. 9 presidential debate, when Hillary Clinton said, "It's just awfully good that someone with the temperament of Donald Trump is not in charge of the law in our country." To which Trump replied, "Because you'd be in jail."
It wasn't clear then if candidate Trump was just grandstanding. Nor is it clear now if President-elect Trump will do what he also pledged then: "If I win, I am going to instruct my attorney general to get a special prosecutor to look into your situation, because there has never been so many lies, so much deception."
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In an interview with the Wall Street Journal after he was elected, Trump didn't list prosecuting Clinton among his priorities. Still, half the country now worries, and the other half hopes, that Trump will make good on his threat. More likely, he'll contract the job out to House Republicans salivating over the prospect of televised hearings, starting with Clinton raising her right hand, then taking the Fifth over and over again.
So should President Barack Obama pardon her, pre-empting the GOP's plans for four years of show trials?
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Rudolph Giuliani, mentioned as a possible attorney general, has already warned Obama off a pardon, while revealing to Fox News his firm belief that Obama and Clinton "have completely corrupted the Justice Department and the State Department" and predicting her inevitable indictment.
To assess the wisdom, legality and politics of a pardon, this is where to begin: The incoming administration already has its mind made up that she committed crimes and should be prosecuted. Given that, Obama shouldn't hesitate to pardon her even if she says she doesn't want him to.
Without it, Republicans will reopen the 35,000 emails turned over to the State Department. Thanks to WikiLeaks, they will rummage through thousands of emails to and from her campaign chairman, John Podesta. They will resume the search for the 33,000 emails that she said were personal and had deleted. They will second-guess FBI Director James Comey's decision that even if she had been "extremely careless" with her private server, she never intended to commit crimes.
They will also subpoena years of Clinton Foundation documents in search of pay-to-play favors and conflicts of interest during her tenure at the State Department. And they won't hesitate to draw in Bill Clinton and top aides Huma Abedin and Jake Sullivan, or place in legal jeopardy many other longtime associates.
Why would Republicans pursue Clinton, even though she is unlikely to run for office ever again? The simple answer is that "lock her up" energized Trump's campaign and propelled many House members' re-elections.
The question, then, isn't whether Obama should pardon her, but whether he will. His lawyers will look at past presidential pardons for guidance and ask: Would he be tarnishing his legacy if he takes action?
Democratic presidential nominee former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton stands with President Barack Obama during an election eve rally on Nov. 7, 2016, in Philadelphia, Pa. (Spencer Platt, Getty Images)
Bill Clinton certainly tarnished his own when, on his last day as president in January 2001, he pardoned fugitive financier Marc Rich, skirting the Justice Department's usual procedures to do so. Rich's ex-wife had recently made a handsome donation to Clinton's library.
The case of Hillary Clinton is entirely different. She has been investigated almost continuously for four years. But in addition to being twice absolved by the FBI, she hasn't been accused of any specific crime, let alone indicted, tried or convicted.
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To those Republicans who would say a pardon proves they were right all along, Obama can cite Gerald Ford's 1974 pardon of Richard Nixon. Though Ford's action probably cost him the election of 1976, he acted to bring the country together after two years of the Watergate scandal, congressional hearings, impeachment proceedings, a Supreme Court decision and finally Nixon's resignation.
Obama's lawyers will also look to other last-minute pardons, including President George H. W. Bush's Christmas Day 1992 exoneration of former Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger and five others. They had been involved in the 1987 Iran-contra arms-for-hostages scandal in the Ronald Reagan administration.
Bush issued the pardons after letting the legal system run its course for six years: An independent prosecutor, Lawrence Walsh, had obtained one conviction and three guilty pleas. Two other cases were about to go to trial. In his anger, Walsh revealed that President Bush was a subject of his probe, based on notes Bush had taken as Reagan's vice president, inviting accusations of a cover-up.
President George W. Bush avoided similar allegations in his 2007 commutation of the 30-month prison sentence of Lewis Libby, an aide to Vice President Dick Cheney. Libby had been convicted of lying and obstructing justice in the investigation into who leaked the name of Valerie Plame, a Central Intelligence Agency operative, to a columnist. Bush waited four years for the case to go through the federal courts before acting.
Obama doesn't have the luxury of waiting, as his predecessors did. The only way to head off a Republican vendetta against someone to whom we owe "a major debt of gratitude for her service to the country" as Trump said in his post-election address is with a pardon.
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Paula Dwyer writes editorials on economics, finance and politics for Bloomberg View.
Three new members have been appointed to the Aurora University board of trustees, school officials said in a statement.
Matthew Cannon, an equity shareholder in a law firm, Austin Dempsey, a real estate broker and Brian Konen, vice president of an insurance agency, will each serve three-year terms on the board.
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Cannon, who graduated from Aurora University in 1994, has two decades of litigation experience, including more than seven years as a federal prosecutor, according to university officials. He is currently an equity shareholder in the law firm Greenberg Traurig, and lives in Naperville with his wife and two children.
Dempsey is vice president of Batavia Enterprises, a real estate agency, and principal at BERE LLC, a brokerage, third-party management and municipal consulting firm in Batavia, according to Aurora University. He is a board member of Rosary High School, Marmion Military Alumni Association, First National Bank, Fox Valley Entrepreneurship Center and the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley, school officials said. He lives in Batavia with his wife and two sons.
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Konen has worked in the insurance industry on state and national levels, and is currently vice president of Konen Insurance Agency in Aurora, according to the university. He was president of the Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois, and is currently chair elect of the Aurora Regional Chamber of Commerce board of directors and a member of the Rush-Copley Institutional Review Board, according to the school. He lives in Sugar Grove with his wife and three sons.
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Iconic Hong Kong action director Ringo Lam has brought his latest effort, 'Sky on Fire'--- or 'Chong Tian Huo' in Chinese --- to Beijing.
Hong Kong action director Ringo Lam (3rd from leftleads his all-star cast in Beijing, promoting their upcoming film 'Sky on Fire' on Sunday, Nov 13, 2016.[Photo provided to CRI]
At the press conference, he described the all-star cast in this action thriller using China's five elements philosophy, of Metal, Water, Wood, Fire and Earth.
Here, he talks about the role taken on by actress Zhang Jingchu.
"Her personality traits may be associated with water. It's hard to catch her. She lost control and even killed her husband."
The 36-year-old actress plays a research scientist in 'Sky on Fire,' while Hong Kong actor Daniel Wu co-stars with her as a security agent.
Wu's character is tasked with protecting the scientist who has created a drug that can extend one's life.
The action thriller is the latest installment of Ringo Lam's 'On Fire' franchise, as a follow-up to 'City on Fire,' 'Prison on Fire' and 'School on Fire' which all came out in the late 80s.
The film is set for release on November 25.
Hong Kong saw an outpouring of patriotism on Sunday in a mass demonstration calling for disqualifying the lawmakers-elect who have refused to pledge allegiance to the nation and the city's Basic Law.
Tens of thousands of Hong Kong residents join a rally Sunday afternoon outside the Legislative Council complex to show support for the NPC Standing Committee's interpretation of the Basic Law. Roy Liu /China Daily
Organizers said more than 40,000 people turned up from an alliance of 1,000 organizations across the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
Gathered outside the city's Legislative Council complex, they condemned in particular Sixtus Baggio Leung Chung-hang and Yau Wai-ching, two lawmakers-elect, for their separatist stand and bad manners and obscenities while taking the oath of office on Oct. 12.
Demonstrators also supported the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature, in its latest interpretation of the Hong Kong Basic Law and clarification of the oath-taking procedures for all senior officials, lawmakers and judges of the SAR.
Ng Chau-pei, one of the organizers of the gathering and also chairman of Hong Kong's largest labor group, the Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions, said there were also about 10,000 people who couldn't fit in the limited space of the protest zone.
On Nov. 7, the NPC Standing Committee delivered its interpretation of Article 104 of the Hong Kong Basic Law, requiring senior officials, legislators and judges to pledge allegiance to the country and the SAR, and to take their oath in an accurate, sincere and solemn manner, under penalty of their disqualification.
It was the fifth time that the Standing Committee made an interpretation of the Basic Law since Hong Kong's reunification with the motherland in 1997.
Hong Kong's High Court has yet to hand down a decision in the judicial review mounted by the SAR government. The government seeks to have the oaths taken by the pair declared invalid and their seats vacated.
Maggie Chan Man-ki, president of Small and Medium Law Firms Association of Hong Kong, praised the interpretation as an effort to prevent possible instability caused by the pro-independence activists.
Elizabeth Quat Pui-fan, a lawmaker from the city's largest political party, the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong, said the interpretation also protects the normal operation of Hong Kong's business environment.
Zhang Xiaoming, director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in Hong Kong, made a speech on Saturday saying that, in words and in deeds, the separatist advocates acted seriously counter to the "One Country, Two Systems" principle, and challenged national sovereignty.
Therefore, Zhang added, it has become necessary for the NPC to use its legitimate power in its latest Basic Law interpretation.
Zhang said the NPC empowers Hong Kong courts with rights to interpret the Basic Law, but that does not supersede nor restrict the NPC Standing Committee's authority to interpret the Basic Law, especially when the issue of sovereignty is at stake.
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280 people have been questioned since July, when a central supervision group started inspections, about environmental violations in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.
Untreated industrial sewage in the Tengger Desert, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, northern China, as seen on August 29, 2014. [Photo: The Beijing News]
Authorities say illegal practices were detected in 41 ecological protection zones.
362 companies that were found to have violated environmental regulations have been shut down.
Investigators found that grasslands in Hulunbeir and Erdos had been used illegally, and the national reserve for Relict gulls had almost lost its ecological function.
"Many Inner Mongolian people have not realized the critical situation of local environments, but still think it is okay because of the high-volume environment," said Zhai Qing, vice president of the supervision group.
In 2014, a company in Inner Mongolia called Ronghua Industry Trade Corporation was reported to have directly drained untreated industrial sewage in the Tengger Desert.
With its environmental protection facilities unfinished, the corporation started production without permission. From May 28, 2014 to March 6, 2015, the company discharged 187,939 tons of sewage, polluting about 180 thousand square meters of land.
Two owners of the company were arrested, and government officials in Inner Mongolia were investigated.
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A guideline on education, which included articles on how to deal with bullying, was released earlier this week as China pushes to address violence among students.
Moves to curb school violence
The guideline was jointly released by nine organs including the Ministry of Education, the Supreme Peoples Court, the Ministry of Public Security, and the Central Committee of the Communist Youth League.
Schools must be aware of the consequences of bullying and violent incidents in schools, the guideline said.
Measures were suggested in the guideline that could improve the ideological, moral, legal and psychological education of students.
Officials will be held accountable for serious incidents of bullying or violence in areas under their jurisdiction.
The guideline suggested that students with severe behavioral problems should be transferred to special schools suitable to their needs.
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In his role as chairman of the Central Military Commission, Xi Jinping has signed an order to confer a posthumous honorary title on a fighter jet pilot.
Zhang Chao, who died on April 27 when flying a J-15 carrier-based aircraft in a carrier-landing simulation, was given the title "Pioneer in Building a Strong Army."
Zhang, who had participated in several dozen marine patrols, joined the team of carrier-based aircraft pilots in March 2015.
The whole army and armed police forces were asked to learn from Zhang's virtues such as self-discipline and being bold enough to sacrifice everything for the Party and the people.
Zhang should be an example to those who strive for a world-class military, said the order.
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The Syrian Foreign Ministry rejected on Sunday the "accusations" recently made by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), claiming the Syrian army used chemical weapons in Syria, according to the state news agency SANA.
On Friday, the OPCW's executive body voted in favor of condemning the use of banned toxic agents by the Syrian government and the Islamic State (IS) group, saying "Syrian Arab Armed Forces and the so-called Islamic State have been involved in the use of chemical weapons and toxic chemicals as weapons."
Following the decision, the council determined that further inspection and verification must take place in Syria.
"There is a clear determination across the international community to hold those who have used these heinous weapons to account," said British Foreign Minister Boris Johnson in a statement responding to the vote.
However, the decision was opposed by Russia, China, Sudan and Iran.
As for the Syrian Foreign Ministry, it said the vote was "biased," and rejected the accusations against the Syrian army's use of chemical agents.
Yet, the ministry said that it will carefully study the decision before giving a final say regarding conducting further investigations in Syrian government sites.
The Syrian government has always rejected such accusations, stressing that it is committed to the pledges it made when it joined the treaty of chemical weapons convention.
In addition, the Syrian army repeatedly accused rebels of using chemical gas, with the latest most notable accusation in government-controlled areas in the northern city of Aleppo, where tens of people suffered from suffocation and breathing difficulties following a gas attack by the rebels.
Pro-government Sham FM radio cited sources in the besieged Shiite village of Foa, in the northwestern province of Idlib, as saying that the rebels fired rockets stuffed with chemical materials which released yellow foam upon explosion in the village, adding that several people suffered from suffocation.
Chemical weapons are believed to have been used in several areas in Syria in recent years, with the government and the rebels exchanging accusations.
Around 1,400 people were killed when several opposition-controlled areas in the suburbs of Damascus were struck by rockets containing the chemical agent sarin on Aug. 21, 2013, after which both the opposition and the government exchanged accusations.
Also in 2013, a chemical attack hit the then government-controlled town of Khan al-Asal in the countryside of Aleppo, and several Syrian soldiers and civilians were either killed or suffered from suffocation.
The government accused the rebels again, who, in turn, denied the accusation.
In October 2013, OPCW officials arrived in Syria to monitor the dismantlement of the Syrian chemical weapons arsenal, after Damascus officially joined the OPCW Convention.
The OPCW later said the government rendered its chemical weapons production facilities inoperable.
The dismantlement of the Syrian chemical weapons was according to a U.S.-Russian understanding, the first sign of a consensus between both powers on the Syrian conflict.
Since then, reports of poisonous gas attacks keep emerging every once in a while.
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Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday met respectively with Uzbek acting President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov on the development of relations between their countries.
Uzbek acting president Shavkat Mirziyoyev (L) meets with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Nov. 12, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua]
Wang is on an official visit to Uzbekistan at the invitation of Kamilov, which is also his third visit to the central Asian country within the year.
During the meeting with Wang, Mirziyoyev expressed gratitude for China's firm support at the current key moment, which fully reflects the high degree of political mutual trust between Uzbekistan and China, and that Uzbekistan will continue to take the path of development meeting its fundamental interests.
Uzbekistan supports China in safeguarding its core interests and major concerns, and in cracking down on the three evil forces of terrorism, extremism and separatism.
He said Uzbekistan is willing to strengthen and develop the comprehensive strategic partnership with China by taking joint construction of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road as an opportunity.
At the meeting, Wang said Uzbekistan will enter a new stage of continuing with the past and opening up the future after holding the recent presidential election, and that China-Uzbekistan relationship will also enter a new period of time on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in the next year.
At this important historic moment, China is ready to fully implement the important consensus reached between the heads of state of the two countries at the 16th meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Tashkent in June, and enhance mutual support and strategic alignment led by joint construction of the Belt and Road, to promote the China-Uzbekistan comprehensive strategic partnership toward the achievement of more successes in the new period of time, Wang said.
On the same day, Wang held a meeting with the Uzbek foreign minister. During the meeting, Wang said that his first stop in the city of Samarkand during the visit is intended to mourn late Uzbek President Islam Karimov in his home city, in commemoration of his historic contribution to the development of bilateral ties.
His visit to the country is meant to express China's confidence in Uzbekistan's future and relations between the two countries, Wang said, noting that China's friendly policy on Uzbekistan will never change.
He expressed the hope that the two sides will further tap potential in bilateral cooperation in production capacity, hydropower, tourism and other fields, and create new growth points, to inject fresh ideas and momentum into their ties.
Kamilov said Uzbekistan will carry forward the late president's political legacy to strengthen and develop the comprehensive strategic partnership with China, maintain all-level political exchanges and promote pragmatic cooperation in various fields.
Uzbekistan will firmly support China in combatting the three evil forces and enhance bilateral coordination and cooperation within the framework of the SCO, to jointly safeguard regional peace and security, he said.
The two foreign ministers held a joint press conference after the meeting.
Wang will proceed to Turkey to attend the first meeting of the foreign ministers' consultation mechanism between China and Turkey at the invitation of his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu.
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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan invited newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump to visit his country over the phone, local daily Hurriyet reported Sunday.
After returning from a one-day visit to Belarus, Erdogan told journalists that he congratulated Trump over the phone the night he was elected.
"He will take over the duty of presidency on Jan. 20, 2017. We can meet before this date if possible," said the Turkish president.
"We would be pleased if Turkey is one of Trump's first visits abroad," he said, adding that Trump responded positively.
Erdogan also said that Ankara and the president-elect shared a similar view on Iraq and Syria, including the issue of no-fly zone in Syria.
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As many as 14 militant extremists were killed during military raids in Egypt's restive North Sinai province's two cities of Rafah and Sheikh Zuweid, the Egyptian military spokesman said in a statement on Sunday.
"The anti-terrorist military operations destroyed five hideouts of the militants and also defused ten explosive devices that were planted to target security men," Military Spokesman Mohamed Samir said in the statement.
Since the beginning of November, similar raids in the northern part of the peninsula left 26 militants dead while the security forces ruined nearly 100 explosive devices.
Meanwhile on Nov. 4, a military brigadier general who served in Sinai, was assassinated, outside his home in Cairo. Earlier in mid-October, at least 20 soldiers were killed in two-day blasts.
Egypt has been facing a wave of anti-security terrorist attacks, mainly centered in North Sinai, since the army-led removal of former Islamist president Mohamed Morsi in 2013 in response to mass protests against his one-year rule.
Hundreds of police and military men were killed in revenge attacks, with a Sinai-based Islamic State affiliate group claiming responsibility for most of them.
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The Iraqi security forces on Sunday recaptured a town of Nimrud near the archeological site of Nimrud from the Islamic State (IS) extremist group in south of the city of Mosul, the Iraqi military said.
"The troops from the 9th Armored Division liberated the town of Nimrud completely and raised the Iraqi flag above its buildings after the enemy suffered heavy casualties," said a statement by a media office affiliated to the Joint Operations Command (JOC).
The town of Nimrud, some 30 km south of Mosul, lies west of the ruins of the ancient Assyrian site of Nimrud. The statement did not say whether the archeological site was also recaptured.
In 2015, the ancient site was partially destroyed during a campaign of destruction against heritage sites under the control of the IS militants, in addition to other archeological sites in the ancient province of Nineveh.
The archeological site of Nimrud was founded in the 13th century B.C. and became the capital of Assyrian empire.
The troops advance in south of Mosul was part of a major offensive announced by Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi on Oct. 17 to retake Mosul, the country's second largest city.
Since then, the Iraqi security forces have inched to the eastern fringes of Mosul and made progress on other routes around the city.
Earlier in the month, hundreds of the Counter-Terrorism Service commandos and Iraqi army made a significant progress from three directions at the eastern side of Mosul, locally known as the left bank of the Tigris River, and managed to recapture some 10 districts out of about 60 districts on both sides of the city.
Mosul, some 400 km north of Iraqi capital of Baghdad, has been under IS control since June 2014, when Iraqi government forces abandoned their weapons and fled, enabling IS militants to take control of parts of Iraq's northern and western regions.
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Somalia National Army (SNA) backed by AU forces recaptured El-Garas village in Bakool region of southwest Somalia on Sunday without resistance from the militant group of Al-Shabaab, officials said.
Information Minister for Southwest State in Somalia, Ugas Hassan told Xinhua by phone that the operations were still underway to liberate more areas still under Al-Shabaab control including Tiyeglow town where Ethiopian troops quit in October.
"Forces from Southwest State and SNA jointly carried out operation against the militants in the region and recaptured El-Garas, a key location and they are going to liberate Tiyeglow town, about 90 kilometers to Hudur town. There was no resistance from the militants, but they fled, our forces are making some developments at the moment," Hassan said.
He added that the Southwest State could not tolerate the brutal actions committed by Al-Shabaab militants against residents. "We are committed to liberate and restore peace and stability in the region," he said.
The latest military development came after Al-Shabaab militants beheaded five civilians outside Tiyeglow town on Oct. 31 after Ethiopian troops withdrew from there. Somali official vowed to liberate it.
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One week after the operation began to retake al-Raqqa from the so-called Islamic State (IS), Turkey still has misgivings about the U.S. handling of the fighting against the militant group both in Syria and Iraq, while a Turkish confrontation with the Syrian Kurds is not ruled out.
Ankara is concerned that Washington is trying to create a Kurdish entity along the Turkish border in northern Syria by using the IS as a tool.
The fact that Turkish officials have often brought up the issue of weapons supplied by the U.S. to the Kurdish YPG is proof enough about the confidence crisis, observed Hasan Unal, the head of the Department of International Relations at the Ankara-based Atilim University.
"Every joint operation the U.S. and the YPG will conduct will serve to increase the current confidence crisis," he said.
Many towns and villages originally captured by the IS in civil war-torn Syria and Iraq were later liberated by the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) outlawed by Turkey or the People's Protection Units (YPG), seen by Ankara as PKK's Syrian offshoot.
The PKK has been waging a bloody war against Turkey to carve out an independent Kurdistan in Turkey's predominantly Kurdish southeast for more than 30 years.
The Western world is using the YPG as an apparat while justifying its position through the IS, Turkey's state-run Anadolu Agency quoted Abdullah Agar, a security analyst who was a member of the special forces, as saying.
Despite Turkey's strong opposition to U.S. cooperation with the YPG, the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) launched on Nov. 6 an operation to reclaim al-Raqqa.
The SDF is composed to a very large extent by members of the YPG.
The U.S. strategy is to put in place a Kurdish corridor, which it has failed to forge in northern Syria, from the south through the al-Raqqa operation, Naci Bestepe, a former major general of the Turkish Armed Forces, said on Ulusal TV channel.
According to Unal, the U.S. used the IS threat as a pretext to be able to legitimately provide weapons to the Kurdish peshmerga and the PKK in Iraq and the YPG in Syria.
General Joseph Dunford, the chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, paid last Sunday an unexpected visit to Ankara and had a nearly five-hour meeting with his Turkish counterpart.
Dunford said following the meeting, to appease Ankara's opposition, that the YPG will simply isolate al-Raqqa and not move to seize it.
Dunford was quoted on the Pentagon website as saying, "the coalition and Turkey will work together on the long-term plan for seizing, holding and governing al-Raqqa."
Arab elements will be included in the al-Raqqa operation, the U.S. stated.
The Turkish government has revealed on several occasions, following Dunford's visit, its misgivings about the U.S. keeping its promise about the YPG, which Washington sees as its ground force in Syria.
While affirming that Turkey was assured by the U.S. that the YPG would only join efforts to lay siege to al-Raqqa, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu stated that his country would take its own measures on the ground of Washington's failure to keep its earlier promise of keeping the YPG out of the town of Manbij in northern Syria.
Cavusoglu also said that Turkey is aware of the U.S. providing weapons to the YPG and that some of those weapons were seized in Turkey from the PKK.
Turkey seems to be enjoying the bone thrown by the U.S., Bestepe commented on television, arguing Washington could be trying to buy time.
In an earlier statement made a week ago, SDF spokesman Talal Sello said the forces were provided by the U.S. with new weapons, including anti-tank missiles, ahead of the al-Raqqa operation. He also said the SDF would attempt to take control of the city after first isolating it.
Turkey had proposed earlier to the U.S. to jointly conduct the al-Raqqa operation on condition that the YPG is kept out of the offensive.
Turkey's Deputy Prime Minister Numan Kurtulmus warned at the beginning of the past week that "the use of non-Arab forces to liberate al-Raqqa will not contribute to peace."
Al-Raqqa, which is the de-facto IS capital, is totally inhabited by Arabs.
Turkey would not like to see al-Raqqa to be governed by non-Arabs, said Kurtulmus.
Since Syria was plunged into chaos in 2011, the YPG has secured three autonomous cantons, two of which are connected, along the Turkish border.
Turkish calls to the U.S. that the YPG forces should not cross the Euphrates River to the west went unheeded and in early August, the Kurdish militia, backed by the U.S.-led coalition forces, captured the town of Manbij from the IS.
The town, which lies about 30 kilometers to the west of the Euphrates, is strategically important to unite the two Kurdish cantons on the eastern part of the river with the Afrin canton in northwestern Syria.
In response, Turkey launched in late August a so-called Euphrates Shield Operation to stop the YPG advance while at the same time to clear the area near its border of the IS militants.
Turkish tanks and some members of the Turkish special forces, backed by some rebel groups, entered Syria and are currently pushing to close in upon al-Bab, a town under IS control.
By capturing al-Bab, which lies to the west of Manbij, Turkey aims to block the YPG's way to Afrin which borders Turkey's Hatay province.
Turkey is concerned that the emergence of an independent Kurdish region near its border may whet the appetite of its own Kurds.
Turkey has long demanded that the YPG elements in Manbij leave the town, but its calls have fallen on deaf U.S. ears so far.
Foreign Minister Cavusoglu's remarks earlier in the week reveal Turkey's growing distrust of the U.S. as an ally.
Noting the U.S. had promised that the YPG would withdraw to the east of the Euphrates, he said, "we know around 200 YPG members have still not left Manbij, and we are saying to our U.S. counterparts 'Keep your promise ... You are losing your credibility in this way. Either you cannot make 200 YPG members toe the line or you do not want them to leave.'"
Faruk Logoglu, a retired diplomat who held top posts in the Turkish Foreign Ministry, is of the opinion that the YPG issue between Turkey and the U.S. is for now suspended following U.S. acceptance of the use of Arab rebel groups in the seizure of al-Raqqa.
As to the Manbij issue, Logoglu believes that it will become clear after the operations in Mosul and Raqqa come to an end.
Turkey is concerned that the advanced weapons systems, like the anti-tank missiles provided to the YPG, could also be used against the Turkish forces in case of a confrontation.
A confrontation on a larger scale is not out of the question, considering Turkey has already fired on some YPG elements in its Euphrates Shield Operation.
"The possibility of a clash on the Syrian soil between the Turkish forces and the YPG is present at all times," remarked Unal from Atilim University.
According to Unal, should the YPG capture al-Raqqa and attempt to carry out an ethnic cleansing against Arabs in a bid to place the area under Kurdish control, that may well set the stage for a clash.
If Turkey considers eliminating the YPG forces in the Afrin canton, against which Turkey has so far taken no action, that would also mean a clash.
Some analysts argue that Turkey should not only capture al-Bab, but also drive the YPG from Afrin and Manbij.
"The Euphrates Shield should advance towards Afrin," commented Rafet Aslantas, the director of the Ankara-based think tank Anka Institute.
According to Aslantas, who was an officer with the Turkish Armed Forces, Turkey should focus on the operation in Syria where its military is already on the ground rather than on the ongoing battle for Mosul in Iraq.
Turkey's demand for being part of the Mosul campaign against the IS was rejected by the Iraqi government.
Turkish Defense Minister Fikri Isik said last weekend that Turkey would not tolerate any developments in al-Raqqa and Mosul that pose a threat to Turkey's security.
Isik's remarks came after Turkey deployed a large number of tanks and soldiers on the Iraqi border as the Iraqi army is fighting to drive the IS from Mosul.
Turkey already declared as its redlines the PKK's getting a base in Iraq's Sinjar and any attempt of ethnic cleansing or violence against Sunni Arabs and Turkmens in Mosul and Tal Afar.
Tal Afar, a town to the west of Mosul in northern Iraq, is currently under IS control.
Borders could change in the region following the ongoing civil wars in Iraq and Syria, as many argue it will be difficult for the two countries to remain united as a single entity when the wars are over.
"If the Kurds seek independence, the region would get into a long and bloody period of clashes," said Lologlu, noting a lot of time is needed for the borders in this geography to get a definitive shape.
He feels that the region would feel relieved if a federal system protecting the country's territorial integrity is also put in place in Syria as in Iraq.
The Kurds in Iraq, who have currently their autonomous region in the northern part of the country, have long made it clear they aspire for independence.
Most recently, Nechirvan Barzani, the prime minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government, said Kurds would talk about their independence with the Iraqi government following the liberation of Mosul.
The Kurdish peshmerga forces are joining the Iraqi army's Mosul operation.
The fate of Iraq also depends on the Iraqi Sunnis, on how they will react to the Kurdish demand for independence, and on whether they will also push for independence or agree to settle for autonomy in a Shiite-dominated Iraq.
Shiites make up over 60 percent of the population in Iraq. The country is deeply divided along ethnic and sectarian lines after the U.S. occupation in 2003.
Syria may break up into three parts if the Syrian government, supported by Russia and Iran, fails to regain control of the land currently controlled by the Kurds and the IS.
It is widely argued in Turkey that the U.S. plans to divide Syria into three parts: a Kurdish region along Turkey's border, a Sunni region covering the central and eastern parts of the country and a Nusayri region in western Syria currently controlled by the Syrian government.
"In the U.S. strategy, there is no Syrian nation-state. To be more precise, a divided Syria is (planned)," Ismail Hakki Pekin, a former three-star general who headed the intelligence unit of the Turkish General Staff, observed in his column published in the Aydinlik daily on Wednesday.
In September, dozens of Syrian soldiers positioned to fight the IS near the Deir al-Zor airport in eastern Syria were killed in a U.S. airstrike.
The U.S. said the planes wrongly targeted Syrian soldiers, having taken them for IS members. The Syrian government, however, argued that the air raid was conclusive evidence of U.S. support for the IS.
"In this region, all 'success' is gray, because every 'success' leaves lingering residue behind," remarked Logoglu.
Flash
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday discussed China-U.S. relations with Donald Trump in a telephone conversation.
Xi congratulated Trump on his election as U.S. president and expressed his willingness to work with him.
Since the two countries established formal ties 37 years ago, bilateral relations have been continuously progressing, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples and promoting world and regional peace, stability and prosperity, Xi said.
Facts have shown that cooperation is the only correct choice for the two countries, he said.
As China-U.S. cooperation faces important opportunities and has huge potential, the two countries need to strengthen coordination, advance their respective economic development and global economic growth and expand exchanges and cooperation in various fields so as to bring more benefits to the two peoples and promote the smooth development of China-U.S. relations, said the Chinese president.
As the biggest developing country and the biggest developed country respectively and as the top two economies of the world, there are many things in which China and the United States can and should cooperate, Xi said.
"I attach great importance to China-U.S. relations and am ready to work with the U.S. side to carry forward bilateral ties and to better benefit the two peoples and the rest of the world," he told Trump.
For his part, Trump thanked Xi for the congratulations and said that he agreed with Xi on his views about U.S.-China relations.
China is a great and important country with eye-catching development prospects, said Trump. The United States and China can achieve win-win results featuring mutual benefits, he added.
Trump voiced his readiness to work with Xi to strengthen U.S.-China cooperation and expressed his belief that U.S.-China relations will witness even greater development.
Xi and Trump also agreed to maintain close contact, establish a good working relationship and meet at an early date to exchange views on bilateral ties and other issues of common concern.
Flash
Soon after winning the election in Peru, President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski embarked on his first official visit abroad, just prior to hosting the APEC Summit in Lima this November. China was his destination of choice: a decision which surprised more than a few experts and observers of international relations.
China Today interviewed the President at his official residence, basking in the gentle South American sunlight, and asked his reasons for choosing China for his first foreign visit after election.
"The reasons are simple," the President answered succinctly, getting straight to the point. "First, China is one of the biggest economies in the world. Second, China buys more Peruvian products than any other country. Third, I want to personally invite President Xi Jinping here to attend the APEC Summit in November."
Broadening Cooperation Fields
"We set great store on our relationship with China, and hope to strengthen it," the President said. "China is the main investor in the mining sector, into which we hope China can inject more capital." Thus far, the major Chinese investment projects in Peru include: Chinalco's copper mine in Toromocho; China Minmetals's copper mine in Las Bambas; and Zijin Mining Group's operation in Piura, on the border with Ecuador. Investment in these projects keeps increasing as they enter new stages of development.
However, Chinese investment in Peru is concentrated so far in the mining sector. Mr. Kuczynski believes that Peru's cooperation with China could be expanded into other fields such as technology, telecommunications, and railways.
"China comes top in the world for total mileage of railways, and it succeeded in building a [plateau] railway to Tibet," the President said. "We don't have such big ambitions but we are interested in building several new railways one from the Andes to the bank of the Amazon; and also around the suburbs of Lima which will become a metropolitan area in the next 15 to 20 years."
Regarding the "Twin Ocean Railroad," running from the Pacific to the Atlantic, he said the project will facilitate soybean exports from Brazil to China, because it will cut transportation time from 22-23 days to 18 days.
A supporter of the "Twin Ocean Railroad," the President also called for more research into implementation plans. During his visit to Peru last year, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang suggested a route which would cross the northern part of Peru, while Mr. Kuczynski mentioned another possible route which would run through the southern areas of Peru and Bolivia. "This route is higher in altitude but shorter," he stated. "I think it's necessary to take a closer look at all the options."
A potential cooperation in science and technology was given higher priority than the existing cooperation in infrastructure and mining. During his visit to China, the President met with representatives of Huawei, China's telecommunication giant.
Facilitating Foreign Investment
Peru seeks to attract more investors to stimulate economic growth. Mr. Kuczynski stressed that his country welcomes foreign investment, saying: "The Constitution of Peru stipulates that domestic and foreign investors be treated equally." Peru aims to introduce tax cuts to encourage people to reinvest profits and facilitate foreign investment. Reducing taxes takes time though, he admitted, adding that Peru is planning to lower its dividend tax within the next two or three years.
The President also noted that maintaining a good relationship with indigenous peoples is very important. "In mining areas, it's vital to nurture friendships with local communities," he said, going on to explain that some villages are located in the Andes, so providing services to Andean communities is necessary in order to win their support for foreign investment.
China is the biggest investor in Peruvian mining industry and Peru's largest trading partner. But its operations there are not always smooth sailing. The President said Peru will offer all the assistance it can. Chinese companies have put a lot of energy into working with communities to improve environmental protection in their mining projects in Toromocho and Las Bambas.
In the Toromocho mine, arsenic levels have been found to exceed the standard limits, but this is a common problem in the plateau area. Arsenic content is high throughout the Andes mountainous region, from Alaska to Patagonia. "We are dealing with this problem now," assured the President.
At the Las Bambas copper mine (owned by MMG, subsidiary of China Minmetals Corporation) the fine copper output will reach 500,000 tons in a few years' time. However, transportation relies on highways at present, with trucks on a continuous loop all day long. "In an area of 300-400 sq km, heavy trucks rumble past every seven minutes," the President said, frankly. "No one likes it."
A transfer station is currently under construction at the halfway point, which will go some way towards solving the transportation problem. When the station is built, trains will transport ores from the station to the seaport. "The problem is already 50 percent solved and we are making efforts to address the other half of the problem," said the President.
"We Welcome Chinese Tourists"
Although China is a faraway country, expanding its presence in the Chinese travel market is key to Peru achieving its target of doubling the income of its tourism industry within the next five years. Mr. Kuczynski said he will adopt more proactive measures to attract Chinese tourists.
"Peru has a rich history, abundant historical sites and picturesque natural beauty," he said. Of its 3.5 million annual tourists, most are from neighboring Chile who come to visit the Tacna in southern Peru. "We have the ability to double the number of foreign visitors," the President said. "We need to attract tourists from every part of the world, especially China, which is one of the main sources of international tourists outside of Europe and the U.S."
To address the problem of the small number of Chinese tourists, he believes the first thing to do is to simplify visa regulations. The President suggested that the Peruvian government should pass new regulations allowing Chinese tourists already holding a Schengen visa, or a visa to the U.S., Canada or Mexico, to enter Peru without a visa.
Mr. Kuczynski said Peru also needs to upgrade its infrastructure, and improve language and catering services to accommodate the needs of Chinese visitors. "Peru has good cuisine," he said, "but it doesn't prevent us from offering food that appeals to Chinese people, such as Cantonese food, and food from northern and southern China."
The Peruvian government has the challenging job of working out tourist routes with China. It is a long journey from China to Peru, so it might be more appealing to include Peru in a package tour of Latin America, travelling from Peru to southern Chile, and then on to the Caribbean or Argentina. The President has given this matter a lot of thought and doesn't believe that finalizing the routes will be difficult.
"I Trust China"
This year Peru is hosting the APEC Summit for the second time, the first being eight years ago. The main goal of President Kuczynski's visit to China is to give Chinese President Xi Jinping a personal invitation to the 2016 APEC meeting.
"I have two copies of Xi's monograph, The Governance of China, one of which contains Xi's autograph," Mr. Kuczynski confided, displaying a great interest in China's governmental experience. "I trust China. Their election is held every five years and leaders can serve two terms, so reform and modernization will be carried out consistently, which I think is very good."
"The first thing I want to tell China is: We love China," said Mr. Kuczynski. Hundreds of years ago, Chinese people came and settled in Peru. Their food, called Chifas, is very popular. This group of ethnic Chinese maintained the traditions of their home country but also integrated very well into the local community. So, I want to say, we love China."
"The second thing that I want to say is that we want to build a closer relationship with China in numerous areas including Asia-Pacific cooperation, mining, and bilateral investment," said the President. Besides minerals and ores, Peru also exports agricultural products to China. Some Peruvian agro-industrial manufacturers joined the President's delegation to China, some of whom already have business relations with China, while others have displayed a strong interest in developing business ties.
"Last but not least," said Mr. Kuczynski, "I want to say: Let us unite! Though we are far apart, separated by the Pacific, the distance will be overcome during this new and exiting time."
Flash
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is open to support free trade deals, including the Chinese-led Free Trade Area of the Asia Pacific (FTAAP), an official of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Monday.
Leo Herrera-Lim Sr., a senior assistant of the DFA-Office of International Economic Relations made the remarks during the briefing in Malacanang, the presidential palace, of President Rodrigo Duterte's attendance in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in Lima, Peru later this week.
"I think for the Philippines and President Duterte, he's been open to anything that contributes well to the Philippine economy. So we are not closing the door on any economic integration or free trade because I think we understand that free trade by itself penetrates the greater population," he said when asked if Duterte is keen on joining the FTAAP being pushed by China.
He said the only thing that Duterte would like to see is that any free trade agreement would not disadvantage any of the sectors in the country.
During the 2014 APEC summit in Beijing, APEC member economies pushed forward the process of the FTAAP by sketching out a historic roadmap.
China has been pushing for the FTAAP and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
"RCEP is still alive," Lim said.
Duterte will join other 20 APEC leaders in the APEC Summit on Nov. 19-20.
Flagstaff police are still searching for an armed suspect who fled into the woods off Lone Tree Road after being stopped on Interstate 40 for suspected auto theft around 10 p.m. Sunday.
The suspect was last seen fleeing near the ceramics building and ovens at Northern Arizona University, but after a search of several hours, police said they were unable to locate him.
Residents were asked to lock their doors and remain vigilant for any suspicious activity. At this time there are no further leads and no credible reason to believe he is still in the area.
The suspect was described as a white male wearing a gray tank top T-shirt, black shorts and boots. It is believed the suspect stole firearms from the vehicle because they were missing when it was searched.
The vehicle was stolen out of Yavapai County, and troopers with the Arizona Department of Public Safety used stop sticks to flatten its tires. But the suspect continued driving into Flagstaff before abandoning the vehicle.
Citizens are asked to call the Flagstaff Police Department at (928)774-1414 or Silent Witness at (928)774-6111 with any information on the case.
Flash
Governor of Pakistan's Balochistan Muhammad Khan Achakzai, who is on a goodwill visit to China from Nov 14-23, met Sun Jiazheng, Chairman of CFPD and Vice Chairman of 11th National Committee of CPPCC on Nov. 14, 2016.
An Agreement of Cooperation for Building a CPEC Center of Excellence (CCE) at Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences (BUITEMS) was also signed on the occasion.
During the meeting, bilateral relations, CPEC and 65th Anniversary of Pak-China Diplomatic Relations were discussed and they reiterated the importance of friendship between the two countries. China expressed condolence over today's terror attack in Balochistan.
The Governor Balochistan is leading a delegation of twenty members, mostly tribal elders, and in addition to Beijing, the delegation will be visiting Shanghai and Urumqi as well.
Drinking water in Doney Park has tested positive for E. coli bacteria. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality confirmed the contamination in the Doney Park Water Company supply on Sunday morning.
Residents on Doney Park water should avoid drinking tap water unless it has been boiled or should use bottled water. When boiling water, bring it to a boil for at least three minutes and let it cool before using. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and food preparation until further notice.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, E. coli can cause diarrhea, urinary tract infections, respiratory illness, bloodstream infections and other illnesses. The types of E. coli that can cause illness can be transmitted through contaminated water or food, or through contact with animals or people.
If people have diarrhea that lasts for more than three days, or is accompanied by a high fever, blood in the stool or so much vomiting that they cannot keep liquids down and pass very little urine, they are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider.
Doney Park Water Company has begun flushing its water system to remove the bacteria and will inform residents when it has done so and has lifted the water boil advisory.
The Coconino County Public Health Services District is working with Doney Park Water to help inform residents of any further risk to the water system. If you have further questions, please contact Doney Park Water System at 928.526.1080.
China Aviation Daily | Nov. 14, 2016
Cathay Pacific and its staff have applauded the magnificent achievement of Captain Hank Cheng and the Inspiration team following the successful completion of his epic round-the-world journey onboard his homebuilt plane.
Hank made local aviation history by circumnavigating the globe in "Inspiration", a single-engine RV-8 light aircraft, a flight that covered approximately 50,000 km and took in 20 countries, including Australia, the United States, France, Jordan, Oman,
Sri Lanka and Thailand, before landing at Hong Kong International Airport at around 10 am today.
Before his arrival in Hong Kong, Hank flew low over Victoria Harbour, providing members of the public with the opportunity to share in the spirit of the occasion. The city certainly gave "Inspiration" a warm welcome, with people turning out in force to capture the moment; their photos, videos and positive comments of the B-KOO-registered aircraft proving overwhelmingly popular across many social media platforms.
Hank's historic, near three-month journey has been reliant on the professional support of the Inspiration team, a dedicated group of Cathay Pacific employees who have worked round-the-clock, monitoring the flight's progress from the Inspiration Operation Centre, which is housed at Cathay Pacific City, the airline's headquarters at Chek Lap Kok. In addition, inspired by Hank's passion to reach out for his aviation dreams, numerous colleagues across the airline's expansive global network, from airport staff, engineers, flight crew to back office staff, have provided him with invaluable support, underlining the teamwork and can-do spirit of Cathay Pacific.
Cathay Pacific Chief Operating Officer Rupert Hogg said: "We are extremely proud of what Hank and all our employees involved in the Inspiration project have achieved - this is an historic moment in Hong Kong aviation and we could not be happier that their dreams have been realised. They have proved to be wonderful ambassadors for Cathay Pacific and local aviation as a whole, showing fantastic spirit, true professionalism and tremendous enthusiasm throughout. This is a very special day for everyone at our airline and it is great to see what can be done when we all work together."
The Inspiration project has garnered significant interest -- both from the public and aviation aficionados -- and Hank has been eager to educate people about aviation and promote Hong Kong at every stage of the journey - two of his key objectives. For example, soon after completing the most arduous leg of his trip -- a 14+ hour transpacific flight from Hilo in Hawaii to San Carlos in California -- Hank travelled to the Future of Flight Aviation Center at Boeing's headquarters in Everett, Washington, where he shared the background and goals of Inspiration with enthusiasts at a well-attended learning session.
Another instance of Hank's passion for espousing aviation and his home city came a few weeks later, when he made headlines in Karachi. Through arrangements made by Cathay Pacific staff, and after receiving a very special welcome and generous treatment upon landing in Pakistan's most populous city, he gave a series of media interviews, sharing the experiences of his flight and promoting the pioneering spirit of Hong Kong.
The Inspiration project has won the respect and admiration of Cathay Pacific staff members the world over, with the team receiving a great many messages of support from across the airline's network, highlighting the airline's tight-knit international community. A colleague regarded the tour as, "A dream for you, and for many of us too ... that becomes true," while another emphasised the positive effect Inspiration has had on his family and the younger generation: "My boys are inspired by your achievement. They carry your aircraft registered red lanyard B-KOO on their school bags and share your inspiring story to all their classmates!"
Added Mr Hogg: "Hank and the Inspiration team represent the spirit of Cathay Pacific and Hong Kong. We congratulate them all on this major milestone and are thankful for being able to play a role in helping to fulfill their dreams."
Contributed by Cathay Pacific Airways Limited
By Lena Ge, China Aviation Daily | Nov. 14, 2016
Air China has officially launched a nonstop service between Southwest China's Chengdu and Sydney, Austria, becoming the first direct route between the two cities.
The flag carrier's inaugural Chengdu-Sydney flight CA429, operated by Airbus A330-200 configured with 30 business class and 207 economy class seats, took off from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport at 10:50 p.m. on Friday.
The A320 aircraft, B-6541, received an Airservices Aviation Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) monitor cross as it made its way to the international terminal after touching down Sydney Airport on Saturday noon, after a 10 and a half hour journey from Chengdu, capital of Southwest China's Sichuan Province.
Flight CA429 is scheduled to depart Chengdu every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday at 10:55 a.m. and arrive in Sydney at 12:35 p.m. the following day. Following a brief layover, flight CA430 will take off from Sydney at 2:35 p.m. and touch back down in Chengdu at 10:35 p.m.
"This new thrice-weekly route to Sydney marks Air China's third intercontinental flight from Chengdu and our first nonstop service between western China and Oceania," said Rui Jie, Air China General Manager Australia, "which reflected the increased demand for travel from China to Australia."
With increasing demand from both the business and leisure market, Air China knows the introduction of the direct Sydney to Chengdu service will help support this demand.
"As the first Chinese airline to operate into Australia and having flown between China and Australia for the last 32 years, Air China has seen firsthand the increasingly strong growth and development of services between our countries."
Currently, Air China flies from Sydney to Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu. It also offers nonstop service from Melbourne to Beijing and Shanghai, with flights to Shenzhen due to start in January 2017.
The Chengdu-Sydney flight will establish a new "bridge in the sky" to help boost economic, trade and cultural exchanges.
Chengdu is Air China's second largest hub offering connections to over 47 destinations within China and international cities including Frankfurt, Paris and Rome.
Sydney Airport has service from six airlines from mainland China -- Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Hainan Airlines, Sichuan Airlines and Xiamen Air -- flying to 13 destinations. Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific and Taiwan's China Airlines also serve Sydney.
Related News:
Air China to Launch Chengdu-Sydney Service in November
Chengdu Adds Nine More Long-Haul Routes in World Routes Signing
China's Global Newspaper
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A man works at the plant of Shimge Pump Industry Group Co Ltd in Wenling, Zhejiang province. [Photo/China Daily]
More Chinese companies are using mergers and acquisitions of German ventures to grow their markets in Europe, while the German groups for their part are attracted by the prospect of making moves into the booming Chinese market.
As one of the groups seeking to expand its overseas business through the takeover route, Shimge, the Zhejiang-based listed company, bought two foreign pump firmsWita Wilhelm Taake GmbH in Germany and Hel-Wita Sp. z o.o. in Poland in September for 13.5 million euros ($14.7 million), and is sniffing around for takeover targets in the US.
"It's quite difficult for us to expand business in foreign markets, especially in Europe, where there is a concentration of major and mature industrial leaders. We acquired those local companies for their advanced technology, experienced staff members and existing market," said Zhang Yongqing, the strategic advisor of Shimge Pump Industry Group Co Ltd.
Meanwhile, Goodbaby Group, China's biggest manufacturer and retailer of baby-care products, has already gone down a similar road with its international M& A strategy.
In 2014, the company, based in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, made its first acquisition of Cybex GmbH. The takeover of the German brand of premium car seats meant a wider exposure in Europe and its entry to the high-end car-seat marketplace.
"We are keen to offer high-quality and updated products, with cutting-edge design and technology for consumers, by acquiring advanced and creative brands to speed up the innovation," said Liu Tongyou, the company's vice-president and chief financial officer at the German-China Forum for Investment and M&A 2016 in Kunshan, Jiangsu province.
In the same year Goodbaby Group bought US group Evenflo Co Inc. The large manufacturer of infant consumer products, including car seats and feeding bottles, was acquired for $143 million and represented a move forward in the US mid-class market.
Currently about 70 percent of Goodbaby's business has been switched to international markets including Japan, North America and Europe, while the remaining 30 percent is from China.
Lifted by the central government's strategy, more Chinese companies have stayed with their strategy of investing and purchasing overseas companies. Statistics from the Ministry of Commerce show that Chinese companies completed a total of 521 acquisitions worth $67.4 billion this year in 67 countries and regions covering 18 industries. The amount has already surpassed last year's total of $54.4 billion.
In particular, M&A deals done by Chinese companies in Germany keep surging. A total of 37 acquisitions of German companies were completed in the first half of this year, against the total amount for 2015 of 39. One of the highlights was the Midea's 4.5 billion euro purchase of industrial robot maker Kuka.
"More Chinese companies are willing to purchase small and medium-sized German family businesses for their experience and technology while German companies also need investments to pull them out of the economic slowdown," said Zhang Ning, senior associate of CMS, a global law firm covering services in 34 countries.
However, there are failed examples. Statistics from consultancy PwC show that over 50 percent of overseas acquisitions failed. The report from the Ministry of Commerce also found out that only 13 percent of the overseas projects were making profits.
"It is essential for companies to carry out a detailed examination of the firms into their background, financial condition and tax issues with the support from experienced law firms to avoid purchasing a failing project," said Zhang, who every week meets dozens of Chinese clients wanting to acquire German companies.
File photo shows high-speed rail in China. [Photo/Xinhua]
China's 600 km/h maglev (magnetic levitation) train project, launched earlier this year, is in full swing.
Jia Limin, head of China's high-speed rail innovation program, said a high-speed maglev test line with a length of no less than 5 kilometers under the project is expected to be completed by 2021.
CRRC Corporation Limited, China's largest rail transportation equipment maker, said it would construct the test line.
In addition, Shandong province in East China plans to construct a high-speed maglev system that runs from Jinan, the province's capital city to Qingdao, which is the first operation line based on this project, Jia said.
"That is the reason why we built the 5-km test line in Qingdao," he said.
CRRC said in October that China was launching a bullet train project containing a 600 km/h high-speed maglev train and a 400 km/h international multimodal transport high-speed train.
Ministry of Science and Technology has decided to transfer some key research projects over to enterprises, such as the CRRC, a conference on major special rail transportation projects announced in October.
CRRC was the first enterprise to take on the trial projects, who received seven out of ten projects from the Ministry of Science and Technology.
The company will also develop maglev trains that travel at 200 km/h under the project.
China's internet economy is enjoying strong momentum, highlighted by technology upgrades, business innovation and big acquisition deals in 2016. Let's take a look at the major internet events of the year.
Google's Go-playing computer program AlphaGo claimed a historic victory in the ancient Chinese boardgame over Go grandmaster Lee Sedol of South Korea in March. The computer program won four games to one in the best-of-five series.
The victory has fuelled a growing interest in artificial intelligence and boosted Chinese companies' investment in the sector.
Members of Qihoo 360's cyber security team won the gold "Lord of Pwn" trophy during the PwnFest contest held Nov 10-11 in Seoul, South Korea. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
Chinese cyber security contestants from Qihoo 360 were crowned "Lords of Pwn" at last week's PwnFest in South Korea.
PwnFest is a newly-launched vulnerabilities pwning contest run by South Korean cyber security conference organizer, the Power of Community (POC).
Supported by Microsoft, Google, Apple, Adobe and VMware, the contest provides valuable information to the companies to enable them to patch software to prevent dark-side hackers exploiting holes for malicious purposes.
The $1.7 million-prize for winning the contest overall is the highest of similar competitions in the industry.
Teams from Qihoo 360 Technology, one of China's largest cyber security companies, defeated rivals in the pwning challenges targeting Microsoft Edge, VMware Workstation, Adobe Flash and Google Pixel. They won the gold "Lord of Pwn" trophy and a total of $530,000 in prize money for taking home the most medals.
The VMware hasn't been cracked for seven years.
The targets of the contest were chosen from a variety of systems that have been updated recently, including Microsoft Edge, Android 7.0, Microsoft Hyper-V, Google Chrome, Apple iOS 10 and Safari + Mac OS X Sierra, Adobe Flash and VMware Workstation Pro 12.
A joint team of Pangu, a Chinese hacking team famous for iOS jailbreaks, and JH hackers, claimed the $100,000 prize for finding the latest Safari weakness that gave them root access to Mac OS Sierra.
Chen Xiaobo, one of the core members of Pangu, told the media that they still have the ability to jailbreak the latest iOS 10.1.1.
The team delivered a speech named "Analysis of iOS 9.3.3 Jailbreak & Security Enhancements of iOS 10" at the POC 2016 conference which is held alongside the contest. They discussed some security enhancements in iOS 10 and new hardware-based protection for iPhone7 Plus.
"In fact, iOS 10 has fixed lots of unpublished bugs and enhanced some security mechanisms such as KPP, sandbox and the kernel heap management," the team said.
Another participant named Jung Hoon Lee, a 22-year-old South Korean known as Lokihardt, earnt almost $300,000 at the PwnFest competition for pwning Microsoft Edge and VMWare Workstation.
Six topics from Chinese teams were chosen to be presented at the conference, covering research into the vulnerabilities of web browsers, mobile operating systems, virtual systems and autonomous driving.
Four of the six were presented by teams from Qihoo 360's cyber security innovation center, including 360Vulcan, 360Marvel, 360Unicorn and 360Sky-go teams, which specialize in security research and development for operating systems and software, virtual systems, wireless and automobile industries.
Zheng Wenbin, known as MJ0011, heads the vulnerability research team, which has achieved hundreds of Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) from Microsoft, Apple and Adobe.
Being a regular at POC, Zheng said that although the numbers of attendees and topics of POC were fewer than some of the word's high-profile hackers' events, such as Black Hat, some of the issues on the agenda were about cutting-edge technologies in the security industry.
http://itmakessenseblog.com/2011/01/28/george-soros-says-he-feels-no-remorse-for-collaborating-with-nazis-during-wwii-to-send-his-fellow-jews-to-the-death-camps-steal-their-property/
Posted By Vicki McClure Davidson
Billionaire left-wing extremist George Soros betrayed the Jews, worked with the Nazis has no regrets
George Soros is very, very rich, and hes also a soulless sociopath, an inhumane left-wing extremist who collaborated with the Nazis in his youth.
But thats just my take on the man. Based exclusively on his own words.
Be prepared to be hit with revulsion. Soros betrayed other Jews and helped steal their property and send them to their tragic deaths to spare himself.
And he doesnt feel any guilt about it. None.
This is the face of pure evil and with whom the Democrat party has aligned itself.
H/t to reader Larry, via Weasel Zippers, George Soros Says He Feels No Remorse For Collaborating With Nazis During WWII to Send His Fellow Jews to the Death Camps, Steal Their Property: viaOttawa Sun, Billionaire George Soros has made a living wrecking the lives of others. Now he wants to mess with Canadians:
(Ezra Levant)- George Schwartz was born in Hungary in 1930 not the luckiest time and place to be born a Jew.
Georges father Theodore tried to change the familys fortunes by changing their name to something less Jewish-sounding. It didnt help. And soon war came.
When the Nazis took total control of Hungary in 1944, the Holocaust followed. In two months, 440,000 Hungarian Jews were deported to death camps.
To survive, George, then a teenager, collaborated with the Nazis.
First he worked for the Judenrat. That was the Jewish council set up by the Nazis to do their dirty work for them. Instead of the Nazis rounding up Jews every day for the trains, they delegated that murderous task to Jews who were willing to do it to survive another day at the expense of their neighbours.
Theodore hatched a better plan for his son. He bribed a non-Jewish official at the agriculture ministry to let George live with him. George helped the official confiscate property from Jews.
By collaborating with the Nazis, George survived the Holocaust. He turned on other Jews to spare himself.
George moved to London after the war and then to New York, where he became a stockbroker. Hes rich now. Forbes magazine says hes the 35th richest man in the world. Maybe youve heard of him. He goes by the name his father invented: George Soros.
How does Soros feel about what he did as a teenager? Has it kept him up at night?
Steve Kroft of 60 Minutes asked him that. Was it difficult? Not at all, Soros answered.
No feeling of guilt? asked Kroft. No, said Soros. There was no sense that I shouldnt be there. If I wasnt doing it, somebody else would be taking it away anyhow. Whether I was there or not. So I had no sense of guilt.
A Nazi would steal the Jews property anyways. So why not him?
That moral hollowness has shaped Soros life. Hes a rabid critic of capitalism, but in 1992 when he saw a chance, he speculated against the British pound, causing it to crash, devastating retirement savings for millions of Britons. Soros pocketed $1.1 billion for himself. If he didnt do it, someone else would, right?
In 2002, Soros was convicted of insider trading in France, and fined millions of dollars. He admitted buying the shares, but denied it was a crime.
Last year, when he made $3.3 billion off the banking collapse, he called the worlds financial crisis the culmination of my lifes work.
This is a man who boasted he offered to help his mother commit suicide. Apparently he didnt see enough death in Hungary.
Soros is a sociopath. But hes a sociopath with $14 billion, and he likes to spend it on politics.
Sometimes his gifts are large, like the $24 million he spent in 2004, trying to defeat George W. Bush. Sometimes theyre small, like $20,000 to a woman convicted of helping terrorists.
Now Soros has turned his attention to Canada.
One of his front groups, called Avaaz, is lobbying to stop Sun Medias license for a TV newschannel. Soros doesnt know anything about Canada Avaaz called the Sun newspapers the Suncor newspapers but were his latest toy.
Avaaz is sending a petition to Canadas TV regulator, the CRTC, claiming that thousands of Canadians want to censor the Sun and keep it off the air.
The petition is a fraud its an Internet petition, and anyone can sign anyone else up without their permission. Fake names are permitted, and so are foreign citizens. And the whole campaign is run out of New York.
Do you think Soros should determine what you can watch on TV? Do you think that decision should be made in New York? Is our freedom of speech just another trinket for him to buy and sell?
Hasnt Soros silenced enough voices in his life?
Fight back.
As expressed at Weasel Zippers Theres a special place in hell for George Soros
While the left-wing media freaks out about whether or not Sarah Palins youngest child is actually hers, or works overtime to fabricate lies and doctored videos about tea partiers, a REAL bad guy is being given a free pass. JournoListers are marching in lockstep, as always Soros is waaay beyond rich, so that kind of seriously eye-popping bankroll buys him a lot of coverage thanks to the state-run media and the ethics-free Democrat party.
From The Guardian, George Soros gives $100 million to Human Rights Watch:
The billionaire financier George Soros is giving $100 million (65 million) to Americas leading human rights organisation in a move that will enable the group to massively expand its operations around the world.READ MORE HERE>>
China and the UK must learn from each other and collaborate to improve innovation, scholars and business leaders said at a forum at the University of Oxford on Thursday.
The Oxford Sino-UK Innovation and Development Forum attracted more than 160 representatives from academia and commerce.
Fu Xiaolan, director of the universitys Technology and Management Center for Development, said technology is changing the way in which value and profits are created, and noted that it will have a profound impact on the economy and wider society.
Despite the opportunities that technology creates, it also poses challenges, such as difficulty in re-employment and risks a "lost generation" and political instability, Fu said.
"Technical progress now moves faster than policy and regulation," explained Fu, who is also a governing council member of the UN Technology Bank. "We need a policy-planning mechanism to ensure inclusive growth and multi-stakeholder participation."
David Burghust, managing director of Oxford University Innovation, a subsidiary of the university that specializes in IP commercialization, called for more cooperation between the two countries.
"We now look actively in China for IP licensing, and some of our spinouts have Chinese backing," said Burghust, who is based in Hong Kong. He added that the institution has set up a joint venture in Jiangsu province.
Stian Westlake, executive director of Nesta, a British independent innovation foundation, said the UK needs to improve its knowledge infrastructure and highlight the countrys edge.
The forum was organized by the TMCD and the Institute of Science and Development at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinas national think tank.
A rally for Chinese mainland banks listed in Hong Kong has cut their price gap to mainland shares in half, and that seems to be about as much as investors are willing to tolerate.
In the five months through September, a gauge of the big four lenders' Hong Kong shares jumped 15 percent as southbound cash poured into the stocks, trumping the Hang Seng Index's 11 percent advance. The banking stocks are now giving up some of their gains after the discount to their Shanghai valuations narrowed to the least in more than a year.
The declines signal that price equilibrium between Hong Kong and mainland shares, a prospect that's been burning arbitragers for years, may still be a long way away. With inflows into the city's shares via a link with Shanghai drying up and concerns over rising bad debts weighing on the sector, a revival of the rally in Chinese mainland banks looks unlikely in the near term.
"Based on fundamentals, the sector's slowing. And there's no big catalyst (to raise share prices)," said Pauline Dan, Hong Kong-based head of Greater China equities at Pictet Asset Management, which oversaw about $154 billion as of the end-2015. "People are still concerned whether the non-performing loan cycle will deteriorate further or improve."
China Construction Bank Corp recorded HK$33.4 billion ($4.3 billion) of net southbound purchases in the five months through September, while Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd lured HK$17.8 billion of net inflows. That helped the two stocks to jump 12 percent in August alone. Other companies favored by mainland buyers included HSBC Holdings Plc and Tencent Holdings Ltd.
The rally has sapped the relative appeal of Chinese banks's H shares.
CCB and ICBC have now fallen more than 6 percent from their September highs, exceeding the 5 percent decline by the Hang Seng Index.
"The valuation gap is not very attractive," said Iris Tan, a Shenzhen-based analyst at Morningstar Inc who is among the top three forecasters for five H-share banks. While there are still some opportunities in joint-stock lenders, like China Citic Bank Corp, "investors tend to have a stronger preference for large banks due to their strong deposit base and much smaller shadow bank exposures," she said.
Caution over Chinese mainland banks grew following Postal Savings Bank of China's September initial public offering, the biggest worldwide since Alibaba Group Holding Ltd's in 2014.
With the help of State companies that acted as cornerstone investors, the Hong Kong offering was priced at at least one time book value, compared with the 0.87 average for H-share banks, fulfilling a requirement that State firms' IPOs be priced above net assets. Despite having a larger retail client base and higher credit quality than most of its peers, the stock has since plunged 9.5 percent.
While valuations are lower in Hong Kong than Shanghai, the city's bourse remains attractive for mainland firms due to a long queue for mainland IPO approvals. Zhongyuan Bank Co is planning a $1 billion first-time sale in the city, IFR Asia reported on Monday.
With mainland investors curbing their appetite for mainland banks, global funds are unlikely to come to their rescue amid concern over the nation's $25 trillion pile of public and private debt.
Bloomberg
Maximilian Foerst, president of Zeiss China. [Photo provided to China Daily]
Having been Zeiss' president of South Korea, France and China, Maximilian Foerst, has proved himself as an effective leader by presiding over a period of rapid revenue growth in all those regions during his tenure.
China was the sixth biggest market for Zeiss when Foerst came to China eight years ago and now it's the third biggest market for the company. He modestly attributed their success to those companies always providing innovative products and outperforming the competitors.
"China, by far, is the most dynamic market for Zeiss. Even though the country is seeing a slowdown in the economy, there is still substantial growth potential," said Foerst.
He said he believes that a healthy economy cannot keep a double-digit growth in the long run and the reform China is undertaking currently is good for its sustainable development. "China cannot always rely on cheap labor to compete with foreign counterparts even though the labor advantage has helped the country's economic development in the past," he said.
"Eventually, the country needs to strengthen innovation, which is what the Chinese government is encouraging right now."
The word "innovation" is not new for the Oberkochen-headquartered German company which focuses on optics-related research and manufacturing. "Our company is built on innovation," said Foerst. Up to 11 percent of the company's employees are working in R&D and more than half a billion euros ($544 million) is invested in the sector annually.
A staff poses with an ExoLens on a mobile phone at the Zeiss booth on the Photokina, the world's largest fair for imaging in Cologne, Germany, September 20, 2016. [Photo/Agencies]
In China, it's the same. "We valued innovation a lot since the company's establishment," said Foerst.
"To be closer to our customers, we established our China innovation center in 2012 in Shanghai. Currently, there are 50 engineers, of whom 98 percent are Chinese and focusing on products for expanding the Medical and Microscopy markets," he said.
"Chinese engineers bring their understanding of local market requirements and the potential of the local supply chain. We hire people in the center who can turn innovative ideas into customer-oriented products," he added.
"I try to help our employees realize their ideas in the company and provide them with the support to do so," said Foerst. "We do not tell them exactly what to do, as in this way they have the freedom to be innovative in achieving their targets. We recruit employees who like this type of environment, to enable both the company and the employees to be more successful at the same time."
In Zeiss' 170 year's history, it has contributed to the general advance of scientific development by offering not only high-quality microscopes but innovation in many other areas. As Zeiss has continued to forge its deep relationship with progress, Foerst himself has had a deep relation with the company. He joined the company as project manager of Zeiss Group Internal Consultant in Germany in 1995 and spent more than 21 years with the company in different business units and regional markets.
He said there are three main factors that determine business success. "These are how you train people, how you focus on people and how you interact with your customers. All the success we achieved in China has related to how we invested in our team to enable them to better support and interact with our customers," he said.
Facing fierce competition for skilled employees in the market, Zeiss nonetheless has a much lower employee turnover rate compared with the average.
Many people in Zeiss Germany have been working in the company for over 30 years. The company's global employee turnover is as low as 4 percent. In Shanghai where Zeiss China's headquarter is located, the city's annual employee turnover rate is 17 percent while Zeiss China's turnover figure is just 7 percent.
"People stay with us because they see our company and their personal success in the future," said Foerst. "We are a very stable company with stable management."
Zeiss is not publicly listed and the Zeiss foundation controls the company, which has given it an advantage for long-term planning and investment in high-end technologies, which may not always be conducive to short-term profit returns.
Even so, Zeiss is in fact a very profitable company. For the first six months of the 2015/2016 fiscal year to March 31, the company realized a 5 percent year-on-year revenue increase to 2.3 billion euros, according to the company.
Foerst said his group will keep investing heavily in China, focusing on areas that the local market needs. The company has major business segments including semiconductor manufacturing, industrial metrology, microscopes, medical technology and vision care.
Pensioners gather for a Peking Opera-based group activities at a pension center in Yanjiao, Hebei province. [Photo/China Daily]
Low returns on bonds and deposits, plus aging population, raise questions whether they will be able to pay obligations
China will likely officially allow pension funds to be invested in the stock market within this year, with analysts saying the move will help boost market confidence while the long-term impact on risks will only gradually appear in the coming years.
The first batch of provincial governments will be able to sign contracts with the National Council for Social Security Funds within this year, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security said earlier.
Under the contracts, the NCSSF, a national social security reserve and a major institutional investor, will invest and manage the funds on behalf of the local governments.
The value of China's pension funds stood at 3.99 trillion yuan ($600 billion) at the of end of last year, according to official data. Regulations allow a maximum 30 percent of the fund's total net assets to be invested in securities, including stocks.
Gao Ting, head of China strategy at UBS Securities, said that the actual amount of capital entering the market initially will not be large and as a typical medium- to long-term funds, the impact on market risk preference is likely to gradually appear in the next few years.
Gao added that the pension funds will likely have real estate and healthcare as their preferred sectors.
For years, China's pension funds could only be invested in low-yield bank deposits and treasury bonds. Between 2008 and 2015, the average rate of investment return by pension funds was only 2.9 percent.
The rapidly aging society in China also poses challenges for the management of the pension funds, sparking concerns on whether the funds would be sufficient to support the aging population.
The government has been reforming the regulations on pension funds, including broadening the permitted investment channels and granting greater investment flexibility.
In 2012, the central government initiated a pilot program to allow the NCSSF to manage the pension funds on behalf of local governments.
Guangdong and Shandong provinces have already received regulatory approval to entrust their pension funds, worth about 200 billion yuan, to the NCSSF for investment in the domestic capital markets.
It is estimated that about 240 to 300 billion yuan will initially enter the market, accounting for less than 1 percent of the overall capitalization of the A-share market.
"The short-term effect will be minimal given that the initial amount of capital will be limited. But, it will help boost investors' confidence and will be positive for big-cap stocks," said Dai Kang, an analyst at Huatai Securities Co Ltd.
LIMA - Peru and China are in the right time to further promote their economic ties to higher level, said Peruvian economist to Xinhua ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to the South American country.
"The most important task is now to consolidate the advances in economic relations made since Peru and China began their free-trade agreement (FTA) in 2010," Peruvian economist, Fernando Gonzalez, told Xinhua.
In terms of China's vision of Peru, the director of the APEC Studies Center, explained that "China has a very clear strategy based on continued results, boosting its own production chain for industry and services, and seeing ever more sophisticated technological development."
"China is a country of high efficiency. These capacities are not limited to production but extend to how to make pragmatic public policies," added Gonzalez.
He said that, after the visit of Peru's Pedro Pablo Kuczynski to China in September and the upcoming visit by President Xi Jinping to Lima in November, the two countries "must resolve any problems that remain and focus on the fundamentals."
According to Gonzalez, both sides need to improve cooperation in mining areas and allow China's ICBC bank to open up more financial services in the country.
Moving on to the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP), Gonzalez said this was an initiative to minimize divisions within the region and help to create one large free-trade zone.
"This is a project that unites China and the U.S., and it drives to work together while managing their rivalries in the most civilized possible. This is the central topic for the future of the Asia-Pacific, for peace and prosperity in the region," he continued.
It would essentially unite the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), between ASEAN, and six other Pacific economies, and the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).
The academic concluded that "it is an honor for Peru to host the one more step of the Beijing Roadmap being taken this year."
BEIJING - China's retail sales of consumer goods grew 10.3 percent year on year in the first 10 months this year, slightly down from 10.4 percent for the first three quarters, official data showed Monday.
Retail sales maintained steady and relatively fast growth during the period, according to a statement of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
The growth was partly contributed by booming Internet-based sales, with online sales surging 25.7 percent year on year to 3.93 trillion yuan ($575 billion) from January to October.
In October, retail sales grew by 10 percent, 0.7 percentage points slower than September, the NBS said.
The data also showed strong consumption in rural areas last month, with retail sales expanding 10.3 percent, outpacing the 10-percent expansion in urban areas.
Booming retail sales are behind China's stabilizing economy, which grew 6.7 percent in the first three quarters of 2016, steady with the first half of the year, and within the government's target range of between 6.5 and 7 percent for 2016.
DUBAI - The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and China are the most preferred emerging-market countries among young people who would like to live abroad to advance their careers, a World Economic Forum (WEF) survey presented Sunday showed.
In the survey whose findings were presented in a media briefing, the two Asia countries ranked as the most preferred emerging market countries, in 11th and 12th place, respectively, ahead of the Scandinavian countries, all other BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) countries and Singapore. The United States, United Kingdom and Canada led the list.
The survey was released on the occasion of the opening day of the two-day WEF annual meeting of the global future councils, the brain storming session with over to the WEF in Davos.
The survey, organized by the Global Shapers team of the World Economic Forum, surveyed around 20,000 millennials aged 18-35 about a wide range of issues concerning business, the economy, politics, technology and values.
Respondents from 187 countries and territories took part in the survey, with most coming from China, the United States and India.
"The UAE's appeal lies in the enviable fact that the country is increasingly synonymous with an attitude that nothing is impossible," said Adeyemi Babington-Ashaye, Head of the Global Shapers Community of the World Economic Forum.
"The UAE combines excellent opportunities for young people and start-ups with a competitive economy and sends a clear signal that, if you want to build the future, come and build it in the UAE."
As a whole, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) respondents were among the most optimistic about the future impact of technology on jobs, a factor which may explain the attractiveness of countries in the region such as the UAE, said the WEF in an e-mailed statement.
LOS ANGELES - COMAC America Corporation has launched the "Moore Cloud Civil Aviation Technology Solutions platform," an internet-based virtual R&D, technical consulting and technology transaction online platform.
"This is one of our explorative initiatives. The internet-based R&D platform will first aim to solve talent issues we are facing for researching and developing C919, and the future wide-body aircraft project," Jin Zhuanglong, chairman of the Board of Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC), told Xinhua.
According to COMAC America Corporation, the new platform focuses on building an internet-based and global platform for civil aviation technology transaction, virtual R&D and technical consulting. The project aims to connect project resources and human resources in both China and the United States.
"Moore Cloud" platform has three-stage missions. In the short-term, about one to three years, the new platform will support COMAC Series and provide quick and accurate technical consulting services. COMAC America Corporation plans to solve 5 percent of outsourced R&D demand in the first year.
Mid-term mission in about three to five years, the project aims to expand to civil aviation industry both home and abroad; And the long term mission in about five to 10 years, the project intends to extend to high-end complex system industry, and strive to build a COMAC civil aircraft "Virtual R&D Platform."
The day COMAC America Corporation launched Moore Cloud platform is on Singles' Day, China's annual online shopping extravaganza on Nov 11.
Seen by many as China's version of Black Friday in the United States, Singles' Day has grown into a huge battle for market share among Chinese e-commerce companies. The most eye-catching event is Alibaba Group's Global Shopping Festival.
According to the company, sales on its platforms hit a record 120.748 billion Chinese yuan ($17.8 billion) in gross merchandise volume (GMV) during the 24-hour event on Friday.
"It is amazing how much Internet has changed our life," Ye Wei, executive director and president of the COMAC America Corporation told Xinhua.
BEIJING - China and New Zealand inked an agreement on Monday to mutually recognize organic food with official certification labels to facilitate organic food development and trade.
China's Certification and Accreditation Administration and New Zealand's Ministry of Primary Industries agreed to mutually recognize each other's certifications for organic food imports.
This is the first mutual recognition agreement for organic food certification China has signed with a foreign country.
China mainly exports coffee, frozen vegetables, and pet food to New Zealand and imports dairy products, meat and fruit from the country. Under the agreement, all organic food should be marked with Chinese certification labels and codes.
Official data showed that China sold organic food worth 60 billion yuan ($8.78 billion) last year. China is the fourth largest destination for New Zealand's organic food exports.
MANILA - Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is open to support free trade deals, including the Chinese-led Free Trade Area of the Asia Pacific (FTAAP), an official of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Monday.
Leo Herrera-Lim Sr., a senior assistant of the DFA-Office of International Economic Relations made the remarks during the briefing in Malacanang, the presidential palace, of President Rodrigo Duterte's attendance in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in Lima, Peru later this week.
"I think for the Philippines and President Duterte, he's been open to anything that contributes well to the Philippine economy. So we are not closing the door on any economic integration or free trade because I think we understand that free trade by itself penetrates the greater population," he said when asked if Duterte is keen on joining the FTAAP being pushed by China.
He said the only thing that Duterte would like to see is that any free trade agreement would not disadvantage any of the sectors in the country.
During the 2014 APEC summit in Beijing, APEC member economies pushed forward the process of the FTAAP by sketching out a historic roadmap.
China has been pushing for the FTAAP and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
"RCEP is still alive," Lim said.
Duterte will join other 20 APEC leaders in the APEC Summit on Nov 19-20.
Yi Gang, vice-governor of the People's Bank of China. [Photo/Provided to China Daily]
Chinese financial technology companies, which are expanding into the UK at an unprecedented rate, will get additional support from a new agreement between China and Britain.
The move to link the world's two leading fintech hubs is expected to revolutionize global fintech growth, given that China is the top fintech market and the UK is a dominant fintech hub.
The agreement for a so-called bridge between the two centers was signed on Friday by the UK's Financial Conduct Authority and the People's Bank of China.
The UK-China Fintech Bridge is a government information sharing tool established as part of the 8th UK-China Economic and Financial Dialogue, which took place in London on Thursday.
Fintech is the sector in which technology-driven companies produce solutions to challenge the traditional banking industry. It grew rapidly after the 2008 financial crisis. London-based Level39 is Europe's largest fintech accelerator.
"As regulator, we need to adapt to the rapid development of fintech and strike a balance between financial innovation and risk management," said Yi Gang, vice-governor of the People's Bank of ChinaChina's central bank.
Yi made the remarks on Friday at the UK-China Collaboration in Fintech forum at London's Canary Wharf, which was attended by more than 100 fintech practitioners.
Christopher Woolard, executive director of strategy and competition at the FCA, said:"I believe the UK-China Fintech Bridge will be mutually beneficial for us and the PBoC, and will be a part of our joint efforts to promote innovation and consumer protection in both of our markets."
Chen Long, chief strategy officer at Ant Financial, welcomed the bridge.
"Because Chinese fintech firms' models and activities are sometimes starkly different from UK firms, we hope the bridge will help UK regulators to understand our business activities better, so they can regulate us in the UK in an effective way."
Ant Financial is the fintech arm of China's ecommerce giant Alibaba. It operates China's largest online payment platform, Alipay, which entered the UK market last year.
China's ecommerce and internet companies, which include Alibaba, Baidu and Tencent, have been at the front of China's fintech revolution.
China's alternative finance market is worth more than 98 billion pounds ($123.5 billion) and has eight of the world's 27 fintech unicorns- start-up companies worth more than$1 billion- and last year received more than 2 billion pounds of investment, according to a report released on Friday by EY (formerly Ernst& Young).
Another recent report, by KPMG and the Australian investment firm H2 Ventures, noted that five of the world's top 10 fintech firms are Chinese. Ant financial topped the list.
Other notable Chinese fintech firms launching offices in the UK this year include Chengdu-based BBD and Shanghai-based Wind Information, which both sellfinancial data to institutional investors.
Fiat Chrysler assembly workers work on partially assembled minivans at the Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario, Feb 9, 2015. [Photo/Agencies]
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV gained the most in two years and General Motors Co the most in a year after President-elect Donald Trump selected a prominent critic of global warming to lead his Environmental Protection Agency transition team. Tesla Motors Inc, which is betting big on alternative energy, declined.
The EPA is scheduled next year to evaluate President Barack Obama's ambitious fuel economy regulations that were originally intended to double the efficiency of the nation's light-vehicle fleet to 54.5 miles per gallon of gasoline by 2025.
Myron Ebell, a director at the Washington-based Competitive Enterprise Institute and a climate-change skeptic, is leading the agency's transition into the Trump administration.
"We believe it is unlikely that new fuel-economy rules will be passed or that existing ones will be strengthened," Adam Jonas, an analyst at Goldman Sachs, said in a report to clients. "Enforcement and preservation of current CAFE standards is unclear." That could be positive for automakers looking to sell more profitable pickups and sport utility vehicles and negative for makers of hybrids or pure-electric vehicles.
Fiat Chrysler, which sells the highest proportion of light trucks among the biggest automakers, surged 9.7 percent, the most since Oct 29, 2014, to close at $7.59. GM climbed 5.7 percent, the most since Oct 21, 2015, to $32.73. Ford finished at $11.94, a 3.1 percent gain, the biggest since April 28.
'Demote' the EPA
Trump will "follow the national Republican Party platform on the EPA, which will actually demote it as an agency and have it report to a joint bipartisan committee and essentially take away much of its independence," said Sean McAlinden, an automotive economist in Ann Arbor, Michigan. "The CAFE rules would be canceled," he added, referring to the corporate average fuel economy standards.
Even if Trump doesn't scrap it entirely, his administration may "lessen the stringency" of the four-decade old program, according to Jack Nerad, an analyst with Kelley Blue Book.
"I would think auto companies would prefer that," he said. "They would look at that as somebody who would not put another roadblock between them and the consumer."
Weaker fuel-economy rules may accelerate the shift from cars to pickups, SUVs and vans as well as reduce demand for hybrids or pure-electric vehicles.
American depositary receipts of Toyota Motor Corp, the maker of the Prius hybrid line and top seller of cars in the US, fell 0.8 percent to close at $110.86, and those of Nissan Motor Co, which invested heavily in its Leaf electric car and sells the fewest trucks among the top six automakers, dropped 4.9 percent to $18.65. Tesla, the Palo Alto, California-based company that produces only electric vehicles and is buying solar-panel installer SolarCity Corp, declined 2.5 percent for a second straight day to close at $185.35.
Rules request
Also on Thursday, the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers sent an eight-page letter to the Trump transition team with a series of recommendations, including aligning programs run by the EPA and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Inconsistent rules threaten to saddle the industry with "potentially billions of dollars in fines," said the trade group, which represents most of the world's biggest automakers including GM, Ford, Toyota and Volkswagen AG.
The alliance asked for a presidential panel to review all auto regulations, including fuel-economy rules, as consumers continue to reject efficient cars and electrified vehicles in favor of pickups and SUVs.
"The combination of low gas prices and the existing fuel efficiency gains from the early years of the program is undercutting consumer willingness to buy the vehicles with more expensive alternative powertrains," the group said.
Bloomberg
A man controls a drone at a training organization in Zouping county, Shandong province, April 9, 2016. [Photo/IC]
With advancement in technology, drones are likely to be used in greater numbers in mineral exploration, traffic administration, disaster surveillance and agriculture. This means that a license has become a necessity to operate them.
A variety of training organizations are swarming into the burgeoning market as the demand for drone pilots is on the rise.
Shenzhen D-zooom Aerotech Co Ltd, one of the biggest drone pilot training organizations, has trained more than 1,000 professional drone pilots and given drone science lessons to over 3,000 primary and secondary school students.
Liu Yueping, the president of Shenzhen D-zooom said: "The research and technology of drones needs to be standardized, so it is not easy to train a qualified pilot. The types of drones are diversified and there is no standardized tutorial material to teach pilots."
They have organized technology professionals to design training materials and conduct courses.
According to regulations by the Civil Aviation Administration of China in 2014, the unmanned aerial vehicles operators, whose UAVs weigh more than 7 kilograms or fly higher than 120 meters, or further than 500 meters, are required to have a license issued by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, and apply to the air traffic control department for airspace and flight plans.
Statistics from AOPA show there are 31 drone training organizations across the country, while the number of pilots who are licensed is less than 700. It means the majority of drone pilots are flying illegally.
D-Zooom has been authorized by AOPA to issue its qualification. Liu added the students taking the training course are professionals in drone companies or people who want to enter into the field.
The cost of training at D-zooom ranges from 6,500 yuan ($962) to 41,800 yuan in accordance with the type of drone, and takes 10 days to half a year. Trainees will be taught basic skills about how to operate different kinds of drones.
Zhang Xiaokun, 28, a drone pilot from an aerial photography company, said "the average salary is 3,000 yuan to 4,000 yuan, and in summer peak season, we could earn more than 10,000 yuan per month." A pilot with more hours and maintenance experience could earn more.
Zhang said the work is not easy as aerial photography needs to consider light and weather conditions, adding it is common to work from dawn to night.
The value of China's drone industry could reach 75 billion yuan by 2025, according to a report by Beijing-based iResearch Consulting Group.
Jean Xiao, a research analyst from IDC said drone manufacturers are focusing on the drone pilot training sector, such as establishing specialized training schools to cultivate talent, adding some primary and secondary schools conduct courses about drone operations to develop interest.
Pizza the polar bear will be leaving this mall enclosure for an ocean park in North China. The news comes on the heels of a campaign by animal-rights activists to have him released. MAI ZI / VSHINE
Pizza the polar bear will be delivered to an ocean park in North China after an impassioned global campaign to release him from a shopping mall enclosure in Guangzhou.
The Humane Society International (HSI), which led the effort to set free "the world's saddest polar bear" from the confines of an aquarium at the Grandview Shopping Mall in South China's Guangdong province, announced the news in a release on Sunday.
The location of Pizza's new home hasn't been disclosed, but apparently the bear will be reunited with his parents.
The mall, which has maintained that Pizza is well adjusted and well fed, posted its decision on Weibo. Following is the English translation:
"Due to upgrading of exhibition halls, as a testament to urban renewal of Guangzhou, a result of the harmonious collaboration between commerce and tourism, and a witness to urban compassion and hearts of love, Pizza, the bear baby' loved by millions of tourists, will say goodbye for a short period of time. He will return to the embrace of his mom and dad.
"This upgrading of the facility will not however affect the normal operation of the aquarium. To say goodbye to this polar bear prince and at the request of the visitors, we shall hold a great and special farewell party for him on November 13. We shall invite all the fans of Pizza, all the staff members of the Grandview Polar Ocean Park who see Pizza as a family member, and all other experts and people who have passion for the development of ocean parks in China to come to the party and to bear witness to the touching moment at the send-off party."
Qin Xiaona, director of the Beijing Capital Animal Welfare Association (CAWA), said: "It's a good decision, the right decision for Pizza, but it's not the end. Temporary is not good enough. Now we hope that Grandview will learn from this episode and move Pizza permanently so that he never again has to endure the dreadful life in a shopping mall.
Pizza has some company at the mall, such as penguins and arctic foxes and wolves.
"We still want to see the aquarium closed once and for all, to see all the animals moved, and we call on the Commerce Ministry to close all shopping mall zoos and aquariums and to prevent these types of zoos from being opened," Qin said.
HSI and CAWA are calling for Pizza's move to be permanent.
Peter Li, HSI's China policy specialist, said: "Pizza the polar bear has endured a life of deprivation and suffering in his small, artificial, glass-fronted room at the shopping mall, so the news that he's getting out at last makes me very happy and relieved for him. At last he will feel the sun on his fur, sniff fresh air and see the sky above him.
"We commend the mall for being gracious enough to listen to Chinese and global voices of concern, and hope they will do the right thing for this poor bear who has already been through enough."
Last month, HSI and a Chinese partner group VShine released video footage showing the polar bear exhibiting distress signs such as head swaying and repetitive pacing.
williamhennelly@chinadailyusa.com
Chinese study estimates up to 10 million artifacts from China scattered worldwide
Beijing has stepped up efforts to stop the sale of illegally obtained Chinese cultural relics by auction houses, collectors and museums.
In the latest case, Yokohama International Auction, in Japan, was informed by China's State Administration of Cultural Heritage on Oct 21 that several Tang Dynasty (618-907) frescoes and manuscripts of Buddhist sutras about to go under the hammer were stolen from China in the past century.
The auction house, founded by a Japanese citizen with Chinese ancestry, canceled the sale. The move was a step in the right directionno profit was madebut their return to the unidentified client shows stronger international rules are needed.
A new Chinese regulation, released a day earlier, bans the auction of stolen, smuggled or looted relics. It is aimed especially at keeping such relics in China, but it also can be cited as a guideline when dealing with other countries and regions.
Since 1989, China has been part of several international conventions to prevent the trade in stolen relics.
"We will maintain the right of repatriation if any item is confirmed to have been illegally taken abroad," the cultural heritage administration said in a statement to China Daily.
One example would be the frescoes that were to be auctioned in Japan, which are from Dunhuang, in Gansu province. They were stolen by Otani Kozui, a Japanese abbot who was part of expeditions to China between 1902 and 1913, officials said.
There is reason for encouragement, according to Huo Zhengxin, a professor of international law at China University of Political Science and Law.
Worldwide, many guidelines also have been issued to push collectors to pay more attention to the origin of cultural relics. "The legal circumstances are getting better," Huo said.
China to build two wildlife conservation museums
Xinhua | Updated: 2016-11-14 07:59
CHANGSHA - China will build two wildlife museums for storage of confiscated wildlife products, research and education, said a senior forestry official.
The two museums, one in Beijing and the other in the central province of Hunan, will be centers for protecting endangered wildlife species and showcasing the country's achievements in cracking down on illegal wildlife trading, said Chen Fengxue, deputy director of the State Forestry Administration.
A ground-breaking ceremony was held for the wildlife museum in Changsha, provincial capital of Hunan, on Thursday.
After completion, the two museums will provide a professional platform for promoting wildlife protection, said Chen at the ceremony.
Environment improved at Yangtze' headwater
Xinhua | Updated: 2016-11-14 08:00
WUHAN - Surveys have found that the environment at the headwater of the Yangtze, China's longest river, has "markedly improved," with lakes expanding and wildlife thriving.
Changjiang River Scientific Research Institute of Changjiang Water Resources Commission made the conclusion after analyzing the results of a survey in the heartland of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau this summer.
The institute's surveys show that lakes in the area are getting bigger and the number of plants and wild animals have grown over the past 10 years.
The Yangtze's riverhead is part of Sanjiangyuan (three river country), home to the headwaters of the Yangtze, Yellow, and Lancang (Mekong) rivers. With a fragile ecosystem, Sanjiangyuan is dubbed "Asia's water tower."
From 1989 to 2015, three major lakes in the region's Hol Xil Natural Reserve swelled. The size of Hoh Sai Lake rose to 326 square kilometers from 259 square kilometers; Haiding Nor Lake expanded to 77 square kilometers from 38 kilometers; and the size of Yan Lake nearly quadrupled, according to Tan Debao from the institute.
The year 2003 marked the start of improvements, Tan said. "The three lakes are separate. But in the wet season now they connect," Tan said.
In addition, the plain grass, which was at one time very sparse, has spread to the hillside in the past couple of years, Tan said.
The populations of endangered animals, such as the Tibetan antelope and snow leopard, have also increased. In the past 20 years, the number of Tibetan antelopes has gone from 40,000 to almost 200,000 on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
Chen attributed the improved situation to increased temperatures and rainfall. The daily average temperature, highest temperature and lowest temperature at Yangtze' source have significantly risen, according to data collected from eight monitoring stations during the past 60 years.
Statistics from the National Meteorological Bureau said the precipitation in areas of the region at over 4,000 meters above sea level had increased on average by 1.68 millimeters per year from 1961 to 2014.
However, Chen warned that the long-term influence of the climate change needs further monitoring and research.
For example, if an inland salt lake, which gets bigger, starts to flow into the tributary of the Yangtze, Tan said, "We need to be aware of the impact this will have on the Yangtze."
Generous governmental spending on environmental restoration in the Sanjiangyuan area is another factor behind the improved environment.
China established Sanjiangyuan Nature Reserve in 2000. Five years later, a 7.6-billion-yuan (1.1-billion-U.S. dollar) conservation project was launched in the region. In January, 2014, a second-phase conservation project (2014-2020) began with financial backing of 16 billion yuan.
Thanks to these efforts, the forest coverage rate in Sanjiangyuan increased from 3.2 percent in 2004 to 4.8 percent in 2012, and is expected to reach 5.5 percent by 2020.
The latest plan to help better protect and manage its natural resources and wildlife is to make the area into a 123,100 square-kilometer national park in five years. Many tourism and educational projects will be limited to the edges of the park, to minimize any impact from human activity.
Yu Xu, one of the first Chinese female fighter jet pilots, died in an accident on Saturday morning.[Photo/VCG]
For Chinese air force pilots, flying the nation's most advanced stealth fighter jet, the J-20, is a dream. This was the case with Captain Yu Xu, one of China's first female fighter jet pilots.
Yu, a member of the People's Liberation Army August 1st Air Demonstration Team, told reporters earlier this month at the 11th Zhuhai Air Show in Guangdong province that she had wondered what it would be like.
However, this will never happen. The pilot, 30, died in an accident on Saturday during flight training in Hebei province.
By late Sunday, nearly 60 million Sina Weibo users had read the news and many paid their respects.
In WeChat Moments, a mobile phone-based, Twitter-like service, many recalled how she inspired them to chase their dreams.
Senior Colonel Shen Jinke, spokesman for the PLA Air Force, said all air force members deeply mourned Yu's death, while the air force will continue to faithfully fulfill its mission.
The air force did not disclose details of the tragedy, but witnesses and military sources said Yu and a male pilot were conducting aerobatic training before they had to eject from their J-10 fighter jet for an unknown reason. The male pilot parachuted to safety, but Yu hit the wing of another J-10 and died.
Born in 1986, Yu was from Chongzhou in Sichuan province. She joined the military in 2005 as a student at the PLA Air Force Aviation University. She graduated in 2009, becoming one of the first 16 Chinese women pilots capable of flying fighter jets. Before the 16 airwomen, all of the air force's female fliers were transport aircraft pilots.
Yu took part in the National Day Parade on Oct 1, 2009, as she piloted a JL-8 trainer jet above Tian'anmen Square. In July 2012, she flew a J-10 fighter, becoming the first woman to operate the advanced aircraft. She was one of only four women qualified to fly the third-generation J-10.
She had become a flight squadron commander, and fans gave her the nickname Golden Peafowl.
As Beatrice has changed over the years and society evolved, so has health care.
The medical industry may be one area that has changed the most in the last century and even in recent decades.
Gene Sullivan, who has worked at Beatrice Community Hospital and Health Center for the last 41 years, has worked through many of these changes that drastically altered his job.
Sullivan is a certified surgical technologist, who assists doctors in surgery doing everything from preparing the tools to cleaning up afterward.
When Sullivan began at the hospital, practices that would seem archaic today were commonplace.
Needles were resharpened and reused, as were medical sponges used to absorb blood.
The general trend of reusing rather than disposing of medical items is one key change Sullivan has seen over the years.
When I first started, nothing was disposable; it had to be reprocessed, he recalled. Like your needles, we had a needle board and then we had all different shapes and sizesYour sponges that they would use to absorb the blood or whatever, we would wash them and they were reused.
After they went through the washer we had like a lint roller and you had to roll over them to make sure there was nothing foreign on them before you reused them.
Throwing away old needles was an important change toward modern medicine, but arguably the biggest in Beatrice came four years ago when BCHs new hospital opened north of town.
Tom Sommers, CEO of the hospital, said the decision to build north of Beatrice was driven in part by competition from Lincoln, and speculation where development would happen.
One thought that I had was the growth is going to come down Highway 77, Sommers recalled. Now how long that takes could be 10 years, that could be several years. The second thing was if the organization is going to survive, we need to be cognitive of the fact that a market that could be a threat to us is Lincoln.
We need to build on the north side so people dont drive to Lincoln. The four-lane highway is a good thing as well as a bad thing.
Upon entering the main door of the hospital, guests see a large reception room featuring chairs around a fireplace, sculptures and a receptionist in the tan room with wood trim.
Connected to the lobby is the hospitals chapel and gift store, in addition to stairs and elevators leading to the second floor.
To the left of the main entrance, along the hallway filled with large window panes, is the cafeteria area.
The south wing of the hospital is composed of inpatient care, with rooms that nearly doubled those at the previous hospital in central Beatrice at 325 square feet compared to 175 square feet.
Labor and delivery rooms were another highlight when the new hospital was built, with 510 square feet. This allows space for family, the patient, the baby and additional equipment, including a full bathroom with a whirlpool tub.
The building was 144,000 square feet and constructed at a cost of $45 million when opened four years ago. It was put into service in February 2012 and today employs around 550 workers.
Sommers said initially, the hospital was planned to be around half the size before plans were eventually increased.
We happened to have the downturn in the economy and the board made a very strategic decision to proceed even though everybody got nervous, he said. The economy is down, is this the time to build a hospital? What happened was because nobody was building anything but we were, it cut our costs. We were able to expand the organization.
Earlier this year, the hospital grew larger as an expansion was added to the north of the building.
The $7.2 million expansion was prompted by space issues in some departments.
The Women and Childrens Clinic and the Infusion Center were two areas that benefited from the 17,500-square-foot expansion.
The addition relocated the Women and Childrens Clinic and the Infusion Center to the expansions first floor.
The Health Information Management Department was relocated, and the Physician Clinic on the second floor was renovated.
A total of 86 patient parking stalls were also part of the plan, in addition to 29 additional employee parking stalls.
The hospitals roots date back to the Mennonite Deaconess Home, which was state of the art when it was completed in 1911.
It served the community until 1976 when it was renamed Beatrice Community Hospital.
The previous hospital was built with inpatient care in mind, though medical trends have shifted to an outpatient frame of mind.
The current hospital was built to accommodate this idea of healthcare.
Everybody at the time thought we wanted to expand; if you go back to the 80s when they wanted to build a new hospital, I think it was a couple hundred bed hospital, Sommers said. If it had been that big, wed be bankrupt today.
Sullivan, like many BCH employees, had no doubt the new hospital would be an improvement, and added theres very little he misses about the old building.
The working environment, you wouldnt believe how the morale is better, he said. Its nice, bright and cheery compared to the old place. I just enjoy that so much more I miss some of the staff and members that worked back then and the doctors, but I dont miss the building at all.
Part of the reason the staff enjoys the hospital so much is they provided input to properly outfit the building.
One upgrade Sullivan mentioned was that operating equipment is now no rotating booms that hang from the ceiling and can be repositioned without dragging cords on the ground.
Sullivan also recalled in the old days that the hospital had a backup generator, though the system wasnt automatic like it is today.
They werent like the generators now where if the lights went out theyd kick on right away, he said. Somebody had to go start the generator. We remember cases wed have to go get a flashlight and hold a flashlight up while the doctor was working until somebody could start the generator.
He said storage used to be a problem at the old building, but between added storage space and the introduction of computers that led to records becoming digitized, those issues have largely gone away.
Diane Vicars, BCH Marketing Director, said hospital staff isnt the only group to benefit from digital records.
With the electronic health record, that has allowed us to provide the patient portal so that patients then can also see some of that electronic health record on their own computers or mobile devices, she said. That information, as we start looking at wanting patients to become more involved with their care, not only is it easier for providers and care people to see that information, but patients have easier access to that information.
Before computers, Sullivan said things as simple as getting an X-ray to a different doctor for a second opinion were difficult and required a large X-ray to be physically transported for examination.
In addition to adding computers, cell phones have also changed the industry as workers can be accessed easier. He recalled the days when beepers were used, and being on call meant you had to stay near a landline phone.
Medical practice also changed over the years, one example being Laparoscopy procedures.
The patient would have to have a long incision, now its all done with cameras and all those instruments, Sullivan recalled. Instead of having a 4-5 inch incision you have four little holes to do a gallbladder now and its all done on the screen. Your visualization is a lot better. And the healing is so much faster. You dont have that big scar now and pain control is better.
While the changes have been immense over the years, the medical industry is always evolving, as Sullivan is sure more improvements are yet to come.
About two weeks ago, I was in Zhuhai, Guangdong province, covering the 11th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, commonly known as the Zhuhai Air Show.
On Nov 1, the first day of the exhibition, the star was the J-20 fifth-generation stealth combat aircraft, and two J-20s performed a short routine above thousands of spectators to make their public debut.
I'm convinced that every military fan, including myself, was so eager to see what the J-20 would be like that we hoped the aerobatic display by the People's Liberation Army August 1st Air Demonstration Team, which was to be held beforehand, would be short. I also believe that fewer spectators paid as much attention to the team as they did at previous Zhuhai shows because of the J-20.
Now, looking at the black-and-white pictures of Yu Xu, a young flyer with the August 1st team who died in the line of duty, I think I should have watched more carefully her last "sky dance" in Zhuhai.
I presume she'd understand, as all of us, including possibly Yu, were so looking forward to seeing China's fifth-generation stealth fighter jet and so happy that our nation finally has a strong air force that can prevent a repeat of the humiliating period that China endured several decades ago.
I read in media reports that Yu had wished that someday she could fly a J-20. This makes me feel deeply sorry for her, but I also think she was lucky because she actually saw the J-20. Many Chinese air force pilots probably dreamed about such an advanced plane but did not live to see it. Yu once told reporters that she sometimes envied others of her age who were not PLA personnel because "when we're training hard in the air force, they're enjoying a colorful life".
Yet she didn't regret choosing to be a PLA pilot. "There are no things in my youth so far that I should feel sorry for," she said. "No matter how tough the training has been, I've never feared and retreated."
I owe a thank you to Yu, who will be forever young, and to her air force comrades because I know China and its people are safe thanks to them flying high in the sky to safeguard this land.
One of the country's most-wanted economic fugitives, who had been on the run for 15 years in New Zealand, returned to China on Saturday to turn himself in, according to the Communist Party of China's Central Commission for Discipline Inspection.
Yan Yongming, 47, former chairman of Tonghua Golden-Horse Pharmaceutical Co in Jilin province, who was accused of fraud and embezzlement involving $624 million ($91.6 million), fled to New Zealand in 2001 after his crime was exposed.
Yan returned voluntarily to confess to his crimes, offering to return "a huge amount of ill-gotten assets" and pay a hefty fine, the top anti-graft watchdog said in a statement, without giving further details.
According to the CCDI, he is the 36th fugitive to have returned to face trial since April last year, when Interpol issued "red notices" - international arrest warrants - to track down 100 Chinese corrupt fugitives and confiscate their ill-gotten gains. China placed Yan fifth on its list of 100 most-wanted fugitives.
In August, the New Zealand High Court ordered an end to a money laundering investigation into Yan and a freeze of assets totaling NZ$43 million ($31 million), according to New Zealand police.
The judgment follows a three-year investigation into Yan that focused on the laundering of large sums of money reportedly amassed from fraud and corruption allegedly conducted in China between 1999 and 2001, according to the police.
Police said in the statement that they would end their investigation and release Yan's properties once he hands over the money, with the recovered funds to be shared between China and New Zealand.
According to reports in New Zealand, both countries intend to start negotiations on a bilateral treaty for extraditing fugitives.
However, sources from the Ministry of Justice said that signing such a treaty would take a long time due to complex procedures.
"Yan's return once again proves there is no safe haven for fugitives, and the Operation Sky Net campaign has been tightened," the CCDI said.
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File photos of Fan Xiaoqin and Jack Ma. [Photo from web]
A young Jack Ma look-alike has won the heart of the founder of Alibaba Group, the real Jack Ma.
Fan Xiaoqin or "mini Jack Ma" is 8 years old and lives in Yongfeng County, east China's Jiangxi Province. His family circumstances are unfortunate as his mother has poliomyelitis, his father a missing leg and his grandma, Alzheimer's disease, reported jxnews.com.cn on November 13.
"Mini Jack Ma" came to fame after a villager posted a video of him online in 2015. The internet exploded in remarks over how similar the boy looked to Jack Ma. Once again, with the coming of double-eleven "mini Jack Ma" won the hearts of internet once again, and netizens urged that Jack Ma should act as a beneficiary to Fan Xiaoqin, given his family circumstances.
The attention and buzz caught Jack Ma's attention and he saw the similarities between himself and the boy. Just last week, he announced he would financially support Fan Xiaoqin until he graduates from university.
A member of the ground crew directs the pilot of a J-15 jet fighter on the flight deck of CNS Liaoning. Zhang Kai / For China Daily
Officers aboard the nation's first aircraft carrier are preparing a new generation of sailors for the PLA Navy. Zhang Zhihao reports from CNS Liaoning.
CNS Liaoning, China's first aircraft carrier, is currently serving as a training ship for the next generation of officers who will serve on the country's aircraft carriers. The role is paramount because the defense ministry confirmed that construction of a second carrier had neared completion on Oct 27, as per schedule.
According to the website of People's Daily, Cao Weidong, a naval expert and officer in the People's Liberation Army, expects to see the second carrier finished sometime in the next two years.
The training techniques and personnel on the Liaoning have been shrouded in mystery, until now.
Li Dongyou, the ship's political commissar, said 42 senior officers serve on the vessel as instructors, and most of them were members of the carrier's refitting team in 2009. "Now, they are the technical backbones of their departments and role models for young recruits," he said.
PLA Navy documents show that each senior officer has trained three or more squad leaders on average, accounting for 70 percent of the young officers onboard.
Risking lives for knowledge
These officers were either selected based on their expertise or were volunteers who "wanted to serve on a bigger ship and be a part of history", said Ruan Wanlin, 44, a first class petty officer.
Although they have served in the navy for more than two decades and have combined experience of more than 450 missions, the officers said transforming the Varyag, a former Soviet Union battle cruiser, into the CNS Liaoning was the biggest challenge they had ever faced.
Liu Debo, 44, a first class petty officer with 26 years experience in boiler rooms, was stunned when he saw the Soviet vessel for the first time. "It was a floating junkyard," he recalled.
Originally laid down as a Kuznetsov-class carrier named Riga for the Soviet navy in 1985, the ship was renamed Varyag in 1990. The USSR collapsed before construction could be completed, so the hull was transferred to Ukraine where it lay untended until it was bought by China in 1998.
In 2002, the ship arrived in Dalian, Liaoning province, where the hull, engine, and radar and electronics systems were fully upgraded.
In the winter of 2009, Liu boarded the Liaoning to repair its engine - "the heart of the carrier" - but problems soon arose. "There were no design layouts, no models and no experience to rely on," Liu said. "We had to start everything from scratch."
CNS Liaoning has about 20 decks, containing more than 3,600 rooms, served by about 10,000 kilometers of wires and pipes. When Liu and the team began their survey of the vessel, the interior had neither ventilation nor lights, and the maze-like tunnels were filled with broken pipes and torn, rusty metal.
The teams went in with helmets, flashlights, facemasks and measuring equipment. "We climbed through every hatch, followed every pipe and drew every detail by hand. We risked our lives so that one day the ship would sail again," Liu said.
Second Class Petty Officer Wang Chunhui and his team descended into the dark, pungent fuel tanks to measure their dimensions. Each carried 30 minutes of air in tanks, but most members could only endure 15 minutes because of exhaustion and fear of getting poisoned.
The exception was Wang. The 38-year-old worked until his clothes were drenched in sweat and the alarm sounded on his respirator. When his young crew asked him to rest, he told them: "I have more experience than you guys; I have to do more."
After a typical working day, the officers often huddled around a blackboard in a meeting room until after midnight to discuss technical details, despite the temperature often dipping as low as -20 C. Having accumulated thousands of pages of notes, some of the officers have published operation manuals and training pamphlets.
On Sept 25, 2012, the vessel, now officially called CNS Liaoning, was handed over to the navy.
"If we ever build a museum to the Liaoning, I hope there will be a section where our broken hardhats and dirty gloves are exhibited so future generations know the hardships we went through," said Wang Wei, a 39-year-old second class petty officer, who surveyed the ship's electrical system.
Cheng Haixia is a second class petty officer aboard the CNS Liaoning. He is also morale officer, so in his free time, the 40-year-old veteran regularly checks the ship's internal message board to help solve the problems new recruits often experience.
"It's a great honor to serve on China's first aircraft carrier, and I would do it even if they didn't pay me. Not everyone feels the same way, of course, so it's up to me to help them," he said.
Last year, his wife was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, and although her surgery was successful, she will be on medication for the rest of her life. However, Cheng rarely mentioned his family's ordeal to his shipmates.
"Everyone has sacrificed something to be part of this ship. We wish we could be there for our families, but we have our duties to perform," he said.
Jiang Xueyou, another second class petty officer, echoed Cheng's sentiments. "It's always hard to balance loyalty and filial piety," said the 38-year-old, whose mother died in 2010 while he was away working on the carrier's flight navigation system.
The parents of at least six other senior officers have died since 2009.
The mother of Second Class Petty Officer Wang Wei died earlier this year, while he was away at sea. The 39-year old said he was heartbroken, but he has no regrets.
"I have been in the navy for more than 20 years and have seen it grow from nothing into a formidable global force," he said. "The navy has not only provided for my family, but also made me a proud man. Serving on the Liaoning allows me to be a part of naval history. "
The officers have to put their families to the backs of their minds when duty calls, but they praised the support they have been given by wives, husbands and parents.
Zhang Naigang, also a second class petty officer, is in charge of the system that launches and directs the carrier's planes. On Nov 23, 2012, two months after the Liaoning was officially handed over to the PLA Navy, the 40-year-old pressed the button that launched the first J-15 fighter jet from the carrier.
"What an honor!" he said. "It felt like launching the Shenzhou spaceship."
Military security meant Zhang was unable to tell his parents and relatives about his work. He praised his wife for her unstinting support and for being the mainstay of the family.
"Half of my medals should go to my wife," he said. "I owe my family so much."
A commemorative museum dedicated to the International Military Tribunal for the Far East, known as the Tokyo Trials, was suggested by scholars at a two-day forum in Shanghai on Saturday to mark the 70th anniversary of the opening of the trials.
The trials were convened on April 29, 1946, to try the leaders of the Empire of Japan for war crimes.
"The Tokyo Trials defended civilization," said Gao Wenbing, the only remaining survivor who participated as a translator and assistant prosecutor.
"I am 95 years old this year, but history should not be forgotten and facts should not be distorted. I hope I can see a commemorative museum in my lifetime."
After World War II, the Allied Forces tried Japanese war criminals, with the proceedings playing an important role in shaping the postwar Asia-Pacific order. The trials were said to be the longest and largest in human history.
A score of historians and jurists from around the world gathered on Saturday for a forum on the Tokyo Trials and world peace, hosted by Shanghai Jiao Tong University. There were six panel discussions, with 25 scholars from countries including China, the United States, Japan, Britain and New Zealand in attendance. Also attending was Mei Xiaokan, daughter of Mei Ru'ao, a Chinese judge who participated in the Tokyo Trials.
Xiang Longwan, honorary director of Shanghai Jiao Tong University's Tokyo Trials research center, was quoted by chinanews.com as saying that a commemorative museum is in the preparation stage.
Ending on Nov 12, 1948, the trials charged 28 defendants, mostly Japanese military and government officials, based on testimony from hundreds of witnesses and thousands of exhibits.
"The proceedings laid a foundation for rules that can be applied, especially for small countries, to crimes against peace. I am not naive enough to believe that it will stop people from starting wars, but at least it might make them think twice," said Neil Boister, a professor at the University of Canterbury Law School.
Zhang Jie, president of Shanghai Jiao Tong University, said regional conflicts and tense situations remind us that peace remains a common pursuit.
In 2011, the university established the Center for Tokyo Trial Studies in collaboration with China National Library. It is the world's first academic research institution devoted to the study of the Tokyo Trials.
BEIJING - Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday discussed China-US relations with Donald Trump in a telephone conversation.
Xi congratulated Trump on his election as US president and expressed his willingness to work with him.
Since the two countries established formal ties 37 years ago, bilateral relations have been continuously progressing, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples and promoting world and regional peace, stability and prosperity, Xi said.
Facts have shown that cooperation is the only correct choice for the two countries, he said.
As China-US cooperation faces important opportunities and has huge potential, the two countries need to strengthen coordination, advance their respective economic development and global economic growth and expand exchanges and cooperation in various fields so as to bring more benefits to the two peoples and promote the smooth development of China-US relations, said the Chinese president.
As the biggest developing country and the biggest developed country respectively and as the top two economies of the world, there are many things in which China and the United States can and should cooperate, Xi said.
"I attach great importance to China-US relations and am ready to work with the US side to carry forward bilateral ties and to better benefit the two peoples and the rest of the world," he told Trump.
For his part, Trump thanked Xi for the congratulations and said that he agreed with Xi on his views about US-China relations.
China is a great and important country with eye-catching development prospects, said Trump. The United States and China can achieve win-win results featuring mutual benefits, he added.
Trump voiced his readiness to work with Xi to strengthen US-China cooperation and expressed his belief that US-China relations will witness even greater development.
Xi and Trump also agreed to maintain close contact, establish a good working relationship and meet at an early date to exchange views on bilateral ties and other issues of common concern.
Beijing ready to push forward China-US ties on new starting point: FM
ANKARA - China stands ready to further promote its relations with the United States on the new starting point following the election of Donald Trump as the next US president, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here Sunday.
China stands ready to further promote its relations with the United States on the new starting point following the election of Donald Trump as the next US president, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here Sunday.
Wang made the remarks at a joint press conference with his Turkish counterpart, Mevlut Cavusoglu, after they held the first meeting under the China-Turkey foreign ministers' consultation mechanism.
Asked whether China has made contact with Trump's team, Wang said China maintains close contact with the US side at various levels, adding that it is a consensus shared by the US Republican Party and the Democratic Party to constantly develop and deepen China-US relations.
China, he said, is willing to continue its cooperation with the administration of outgoing US President Barack Obama, so as to ensure a smooth transition of bilateral ties to the next US administration.
Meanwhile, Beijing also stands ready to communicate with Trump's team, so as to cement mutual understanding and expand consensus on bilateral cooperation, added the Chinese foreign minister.
Citing Chinese President Xi Jinping's congratulatory message to Trump, Wang said China is willing to push for greater progress in China-US ties on the new starting point on the basis of the principles of non-conflict, non-confrontation, mutual respect and win-win cooperation.
Xi's message has charted the course for the future development of China-US ties, and China is ready to make joint efforts with the US side to that end, said the minister.
Female Chinese fighter jet pilot Yu Xu of the Bayi Aerobatic Team of the Peoples Liberation Army's Air Force is pictured during the 11th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, also known as Airshow China 2016, in Zhuhai city, South Chinas Guangdong province, Nov 1, 2016. [Photo/IC]
The engine and the flight data recorder, or black box, of the two-seater fighter jet J-10 that crashed and left one of the country's first female fighter pilots Yu Xu dead, have been recovered at the accident site in Yutian county, North China's Hebei province, an official said.
Rescuers found the engine and black box Saturday evening and handed them over to authorities, said the official in charge of the military department of Chenjiapu township in Yutian.
The authorities are investigating the cause, the official added, and the search work for the jet's remains ended Sunday afternoon.
Two pilots from the Bayi Aerobatic Team of People's Liberation Army's Air Force were conducting a routine flight training Saturday morning in Tianjin before they were forced to eject from the jet.
Two J-10 jets from the aerobatic team were training when the planes hit each other, according to media reports.
Witnesses said the impact left a 10-meter diameter and 3-meter deep pit on the farmland at Dayangpu village of Chenjiapu. The plane was flying from west to east before the crash. Another plane circled twice above the site and left.
The male pilot parachuted to safety. But Yu Xu, the country's first female J-10 pilot, hit the wing of another J-10 and died. She was at the back seat during the training.
A medical worker at the Yutian county hospital said the male pilot was sent to hospital around 11 am on Saturday, and was discharged soon as he had minor injuries. He has been identified as 35 years old Li.
Born in 1986, Yu was from Chongzhou city in Southwest China's Sichuan province. She joined the military in 2005 as a student at the PLA Air Force Aviation University, and first flew J-10 in July 2012.
Fans gave her the nickname Golden Peafowl because the beautiful and versatile woman was also better at the peafowl dance. A photo showed that she performed the dance at a school party after joining in the university.
Yu has joined the performance of the Bayi Aerobatic Team during the 11th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, also known as Airshow China 2016, in Zhuhai city, South China's Guangdong province earlier this month.
Yu did an interview with China National Radio in Zhuhai, which provided the last tape recordings of her.
She said it was a happy thing to be a pilot and she has never regretted her decision. She also dreamed to become an astronaut. "I will receive hard training to realize my dream," she said.
Yu's parents arrived in Tianjin Saturday evening after the army informed them of the news. They choked with tears and stayed up at Yu's dormitory room for the whole night.
The parents ate nothing before their friend Du Wenbiao, a military officer, finally persuaded them to have something Sunday evening.
Chongzhou city officials have also arrived in Tianjin Sunday afternoon to help the parents to deal with the aftermath.
Millions of people read the news released by the Air Force at Sina Weibo, a Twitter-like service in China, and paid their respect. Many have considered Yu as a model in pursuing their dreams.
A victim of identity theft in Henan province has been refused admission to college because 13 years ago another woman used her ID to obtain a degree.
Wang Nana first applied to Zhoukou Vocational and Technical College in 2003 after taking the national college entrance exams.
She was admitted at the time, but never received her admission letter because it was intercepted by Zhang Yingying, who attended the college using Wang's name.
Zhang later graduated with a certificate that carries her photograph but Wang's name and ID number, and landed a job as a teacher at a vocational school.
The truth was only revealed in March last year, when nine officials were sanctioned and Zhang's student status was revoked following a police investigation.
Wang, 33, now wants to attend Zhoukou Vocational and Technical College, but it recently rejected her application, citing rules and regulations that do not allow her to attend twice.
"I borrowed many books and planned to read them, it is really difficult, especially at my age," she said.
"For me, going to college would mean having no regrets in life, so I do not want to give up.
"I am interested in majoring in education because my dream was to be a teacher when I was a girl."
After her story appeared in the media, the provincial education authority put out a statement saying that it had not received any requests relating to recovering Wang's student status at Zhoukou Vocational and Technical College.
A college official said on Friday that her application will be resubmitted to the provincial education authority.
"I am the mother of two kids, and my family lived in Luoyang, not in Zhoukou, so whether I can go to that college is a big issue that needs careful consideration." Wang said. "But I have the right to ask the college to give me a reply."
Dont like the Legislature? Buy a new one.
Want to reverse the historic action lawmakers took to repeal the death penalty? Buy a referendum to change it so you can get your own way.
Such is the life of Nebraska multi-millionaire Governor Pete Ricketts. Its not illegal, but its a giant step down a slippery slope. The lines of separation between the Executive and the Legislative branches of government have been blurred, if not erased.
Ricketts veto of the death penalty repeal was overridden so he took $300,000 from his own very deep pockets to finance a petition drive to allow voters to decide the question. It would have been one thing for the Legislature to decide to put the question before voters. And they could have.
But lawmakers voted to repeal it after 26 years of discussion and debate. When Ricketts vetoed the bill, they overrode his veto. It wasnt their first veto override. They also had their way with raising the gas tax to fund much-needed infrastructure improvements and they also overrode the governor on a measure to allow children of illegal immigrants who were brought to this country to have drivers licenses.
Those combined upsets caused Ricketts to spend an additional $50,000 on candidates opposing incumbents who voted for the vetoes many of them Republicans like Ricketts and endorsed two other challengers opposing Republicans.
So, did it work? Of the 11 races where he gave money (9 of them) or endorsed (2 of them) candidates, six won and five lost. Voters overwhelmingly decided to keep the death penalty which hasnt been used in years and cant be done because the state cant get the drugs necessary to carry out lethal injections.
As I said, what happened in this election is not illegal. But it certainly smells.
Do you imagine that the campaign contributions may have some strings attached? I mean, if somebody gives you $5,000 or more, youre going to at least give them some favorable consideration in casting a vote. The executive branch can peddle influence verbally and promise lawmakers support in many ways. But putting cash on the barrel ups the ante, dont you think?
There was a classic case in the Heineman administration of a new state senator who bragged that the governor had come to visit his office and told him that he (the senator) was his man. Thats just embarrassing.
The beneficiaries of the governors largesse who won: Joni Albrecht of Thurston; Bruce Bostelman of Brainard who received an endorsement and defeated targeted incumbent Sen. Jerry Johnson of Wahoo; Suzanne Geist of Lincoln; John S. Lowe Sr. of Kearney; Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn; Steve Halloran of Hastings who received an endorsement and defeated targeted incumbent Sen. Les Seiler of Hastings.
Those who received money but lost: Senator David Schnoor of Scribner, an appointee two years ago, who lost to challenger Lynne M. Walz of Fremont; Lincoln Attorney Dick Clark, who lost to Anna Wishart of Lincoln; Ian M. Swanson of Omaha, who lost in his attempt to defeat targeted Sen. Rich Kolowski of Omaha; Michael J. Cook of Bellevue, who lost in his attempt to unseat targeted incumbent Sen. Sue Crawford; Karl Elmshaeuser of Ogallala, who lost in his race against Steve Erdman of Bayard.
Incumbent Senators Tommy Garrett of Bellevue and Al Davis of Hyannis also lost their re-election bids.
That means 17 new faces in the seats in the George W. Norris Legislative Chamber in January. Thats more than one-third of the elected senators, in case any of you are ever wondering why it seems so difficult to get anything done in the Legislature.
Xie Zhenhua, China's special representative of climate change, speaks at the High-Level Forum on South-South Cooperation on Climate Change on the sidelines of the United Nations Climate Conference on Monday. [Photo by Wang Yanfei/chinadaily.com.cn]
China plans to enhance financial support to developing countries to adapt to climate change through a south to south cooperation scheme, a senior official of the Chinese delegation said during UN climate talks on Monday.
Speaking at the High-Level Forum on South-South Cooperation on Climate Change on the sidelines of the United Nation Climate Conference, Xie Zhenhua, China's special representative of climate change, said that China would facilitate south-south cooperation on climate change by providing more financial support to developing countries through the 20 billion yuan ($2.9 billion) South-South Cooperation Fund.
The fund, China's independent contribution on global climate finance, "represents part of China's best efforts" to actively participate in global efforts to tackle climate change challenges, said Xie.
The fund was announced by Chinese president Xi Jinping during the Climate Change Conference held in December in Paris.
Xie said China will use the fund to help developing countries build low carbon demonstration areas, provide personnel training and donate energy-saving renewable energy facilities, as well as promote climate-friendly technologies.
"China would ensure money meets the needs of developing countries in adapting [to] climate change," said Xie.
Since 2011, China has provided 580 million yuan to help other developing countries cope with climate change, through construction projects that improve capacity building activities.
Xie urged developed countries to "keep pledges" on providing support to developing countries on climate adaptation through Green Climate Fund, a fund within the framework of the UNFCCC founded to assist developing countries in climate change.
Working together 'only correct choice', Chinese leader tells president-elect
President Xi Jinping said on Monday that "there are a lot of things" China and the United States need to, and can, cooperate on, in a phone call congratulating Donald Trump on his US presidential election victory.
"Facts have proved that cooperation is the only correct choice for China and the United States," Xi told Trump, noting that the past 37 years of diplomatic relations have brought concrete benefits to the people of the two countries, as well as facilitating global peace and stability.
Since China and the US now have important opportunities and great potential for cooperation, Xi said the two countries should better coordinate in promoting the economic development of both countries and the world, and expand exchanges in all fields to bring bilateral ties forward.
"During the call, the leaders established a clear sense of mutual respect for one another," a statement from Trump's presidential transition office said. "President-elect Trump stated that he believes the two leaders will have one of the strongest relationships for both countries moving forward."
The two leaders also agreed to keep in close contact and meet at an early date.
Tao Wenzhao, a researcher of Sino-US relations at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said mutual interests between the US and China will not be subject to US political changes. Both US parties subscribe to developing relations with Beijing.
Tao said it will take time to see how Trump's China policy develops after he takes office, though the new administration "will not necessarily resort to a trade war with China", despite his statements during the campaign and pressure from many US politicians for greater containment of China.
Tao said that is "because he is a smart businessman, and a trade war surely impacts both sides".
Fu Mengzi, a Sino-US relations researcher at the China Institute of Contemporary International Relations, said there should be a distinction between Trump's statements during the campaign and his policies as president.
"He knows the importance of China-US relations. He will find some 'China hands' to draft his policies toward China," he said.
At a daily news conference on Monday, Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said China has remained in close communication with the US side, including Trump's team.
Geng also said that China expects to expand cooperation with the new US administration at all levels and in various fields, including infrastructure construction .
"The fundamentals of China-US relations will not change in the future, even though frictions may occur," Fu said.
Tao said the Chinese government will continue to cooperate with the Obama administration, citing the 27th China-US Joint Commission on Commerce and Trade coming up in Washington, DC.
Zou Shuo contributed to this story.
Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei temporarily clear, but pollution is forecast to return through Friday
The Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region has entered its fifth round of heavy smog since the beginning of October, dragging down air quality and forcing governments to take tougher measures.
However, top-level inspection teams continue to report violations of pollution rules by companies and weak implementation by local authorities.
The smog cleared temporarily on Monday but was forecast to return and cover large areas of northern and central China on Tuesday night, lasting through Friday, the National Meteorological Center said on Monday.
Beijing's air quality rose to a healthier level on Monday, thanks to winds. Some northern cities in neighboring Hebei province also saw an easing of air pollution, the center said.
In some parts of the region, including Shijiazhuang, capital of Hebei, expressways were closed temporarily early on Monday due to thick fog, which reduced visibility to within 40 meters. The fog eventually lifted, but air pollution remained severe.
As of 3 pm, the air quality reading in Shijiazhuang had climbed to the most severe level in the six-tier alert system, according to data from the provincial air quality monitoring website.
Cities in the central and southern areas of the region, such as Baoding and Handan, experienced "hazardous" pollution levels, hitting the second-highest level, and the northern part of Henan, including Zhengzhou, saw air quality hit the most severe level, according to the website of the China National Environmental Monitoring Center.
Since the start of October, the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region has been hit by several rounds of heavy smog, the Ministry of Environmental Protection said.
The region's 13 cities met the national air quality standard around 64 percent of days in October, a year-on-year drop of 6.8 percent. The concentration of PM2.5particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter that is especially hazardous to human healthincreased by 13.3 percent year-on-year, the ministry said.
Among the region's cities, Shijiazhuang has seen the biggest challenges.
Since Oct 1, it has had the worst air quality, with PM2.5 readings 60 percent higher than the regional average, the national monitoring center said on Sunday. In October, Shijiazhuang was the worst of the 74 major cities with air pollution.
In response, the ministry has sent inspection teams to Shijiazhuang and other cities to monitor their efforts to reduce air pollution.
The teams have found companies in violation of government restrictions on the emission of pollutants as well as weak implementation by authorities. The burning of waste and corn straw outdoors is severe, the inspection teams found.
Hebei has set strict controls on pollutant emissions, such as suspending polluting industries like cement-making plants during the heating season, from Nov 15 to March 15, while iron and steel plants and coal-fired power plants will be shut down if they cannot guarantee stable emissions.
Other emergency measures taken to cope with severe smog will become regular efforts. Shijiazhuang, for example, will begin vehicle-use restrictions during the heating season, allowing about one-fifth of private vehicles to operate each day.
"The detailed restrictions and implementation plan will be released soon based on cities' conditions," said an official from the provincial Environmental Department who requested anonymity.
Global financial institution optimistic on Chinese market
Switzerland-headquartered wealth manager UBS AG aims to continue sponsoring quality performances to enhance the international standing of the annual Beijing Music Festival.
"We are delighted to see that Cameron Carpenter's recently concluded organ performance was a highlight at the 21-day festival, which presented 30 performances to audiences in the Chinese capital," said Eugene Qian, UBS Group China country head and president.
The BMF has been dedicated to optimizing itself and gaining new momentum.
It has not only provided quality cultural experiences, but also offered a benchmark for the sector in its professionalism and trend-setting leadership.
"The annual event has offered unique cultural perspectives and developed as a strong brand. We look forward to next year, which will celebrate the event's 20th anniversary," Qian said.
Over the past 10 years, the high-profile musicians invited to perform at the church concert have helped the event to build its own brand and become a highlight of the annual music festival.
The company has partnered with the music gala for 13 years. This year, UBS sponsored the festival's first organ recital and debut performance by the virtuoso organist, Cameron Carpenter.
At this year's Wangfujing Church Concert, Carpenter played the 'International Touring Organ' - a multifunctional digital organ made to his design by specialist organ-builders Marshall and Ogletree.
Taking place on Oct 25, the recital included works by Bach, Bernstein, Piazzolla and Hisaishi, Carpenter's own arrangements of pieces by Wagner and Tchaikovsky, and an improvisation based on Chinese folk songs.
The US-born composer-performer is widely acknowledged as having revolutionized organ music with his bold repertoire and dynamic performances. "He impressed the audience with his unique, delicate and bespoke organ, as well as his devotion to creating music genius, playing the instrument with both hands and feet," Qian said.
Carpenter is the first concert organist in history to prefer the digital organ to the pipe organ and to champion it as the future of the instrument.
He is greatly enjoying smashing the stereotypes of organists and organ music, and all the while generating unprecedented international acclaim and controversy in his field.
Before the arrival of Carpenter, every year, UBS' Wangfujing Church Concert stole the limelight from the international festival, with talent such as pianist Zhu Xiaomei and the King's College Choir of Cambridge University, to name just a few.
After last year, many audiences doubted that UBS could maintain these standards and continue to bring such impressive musicians and performances to the city, but the company beat their expectations.
"We want to help enrich the profile of the international event, provide more support to boost its global vision and offer more popular concerts for audiences to appreciate," Qian said.
UBS began to sponsor the Wangfujing Church Concert 10 years ago.
Qian still remembers that the BMF's artistic director and renowned musician, Yu Long, directed the first session of the event in 2006, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Requiem, K.626, the first of its kind to open the church concert for Beijing.
"We have witnessed the festival committing and challenging itself to offering top-level music to the world, which consolidates our confidence in partnering with it in the long run," Qian said.
In addition, the company hopes to honor and preserve the traditional cultural heritage building set up in 1884, meaning it cannot increase the audience capacity for the event, he said.
Giving back
UBS is dedicated to its longstanding role in corporate social responsibility, paying back to the needy and less privileged.
"We gave rare opportunities to 35 students from No 13 Middle School in the city's suburban Shunyi district, a boarding school that supports disadvantaged children from rural and migrant backgrounds, to have interactive session with the artist, as the middle-class children from downtown frequently do," Qian said.
In addition, Carpenter hosted an interactive organ-playing workshop for the students.
UBS was delighted to hear students' feedback, as they said they were impressed by the concert and workshop, and will keep on enjoying classical music, tackle any challenges before them and strive to make a difference.
The tradition has lasted for several years.
Every year, the students treasure the opportunities and "their thirst for classical music inspires us to continue", he said.
UBS' commitment to charity programs extends far beyond the above mentioned.
The UBS Optimus Foundation supported 30 projects across China, with a combined donation of 260 million Swiss francs ($268 million) in 2016.
Looking forward
Qian said the company remains upbeat about the Chinese market, despite an economic slowdown.
The bank plans to double its staff in the country by 2020, from its current number of more than 600.
"We hold strong confidence in the country, which is still the powerhouse of global wealth creation, in particular its annual growth volume," he said.
UBS was the first foreign institution to be classified as a qualified foreign institutional investor in China.
In addition, the establishment of UBS Securities in 2007 marked the first time that a foreign bank invested directly in a fully-licensed domestic securities firm in China.
yangcheng@chinadaily.com.cn
At this year's Wangfujing Church Concert, a highlight of the annual Beijing Music Festival, Cameron Carpenter plays his 'International Touring Organ' on Oct 25.Photos Provided To China Daily
Cameron Carpenter, born in 1981, is widely acknowledged as having revolutionized organ music.
The Wangfujing Church, a cultural heritage site in Beijing, is set up in 1884 and has 300 seats.
(China Daily 11/14/2016 page5)
The United States has agreed to resettle an unspecified number of refugees languishing in Pacific island camps in a deal that is expected to inspire more asylum seekers to attempt to reach Australia by boat, officials said on Sunday.
Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull would not say whether he had discussed the deal with US President-elect Donald Trump during their telephone conversation on Thursday.
The Obama administration had agreed to resettle refugees among almost 1,300 asylum seekers held at Australia's expense on the island nations of Nauru and Papua New Guinea. Another 370 who came to Australia for medical treatment then refused to return to the islands would also be eligible.
Workers inspect the Min Fanglei, a 3,000-year-old bronze wine vessel, in 2014. The vessel was to be reunited with its lid after being separated for about 90 years. It was unearthed in the Hunan province in the 1920s and was traded abroad. Guo Liliang/China Daily
Bronze wine vessel a success story; other treasures defy looting definition
When a 3,000-year-old bronze wine vessel was shown at an exhibition in Shanghai last year, it drew a large number of viewers.
A year before that, the ceremonial vessel, known as the Min Fanglei, returned to its birthplace in Central China's Hunan province to reunite with its lid after being separated for about 90 years.
Unearthed around 1922 by a villager, the vessel was the subject of several transactions. It was traded abroad and changed hands among dealers and private collectors.
The lid has been at Hunan Provincial Museum in Changsha since the 1950s.
The vessel was scheduled for a Christie's auction in New York in April 2014. A group of Chinese buyers from Hunan acquired the bronze in a closed-door deal with its European owner on the condition that it would be donated to the museum. The price was reportedly in the millions of US dollars, but the exact figure was not revealed.
Tan Guobin, one of the Chinese buyers, told China Daily after the deal that the transaction price was thought to be lower than bids would have been if the auction had proceeded.
The return of the bronze is an example of public institutions and private collectors working together to bring Chinese cultural relics back home.
The past five years have seen an increase in the number of Chinese buyers bidding for Chinese antiques at major auctions in New York, London, Paris and elsewhere. Their participation in the global art market has not only pushed up the prices of Chinese art, but has also drawn government and public attention to lost treasures.
A ban by the State Administration of Cultural Relics on the auction of stolen, smuggled or looted cultural relics underscores the official stance denying the legitimacy of such commercial transactions. One result is that Chinese buyers may become more cautious when making bids overseas.
Ji Tao, an art market researcher at Central University of Finance and Economics in Beijing, said the administration needs to further clarify what "looted" artifacts are.
Some objects remain with the offspring of those who took them, while others have been traded numerous times and have been acquired by their current owners through lawful deals, he said.
He added that looted objects, such as those robbed from Beijing's Old Summer Palace by British and French forces during the Second Opium War, account for a small part of the Chinese antiques available on the international market. The bulk were exported through legitimate transactions.
Many Chinese artifacts that were stolen are part of museums and galleries worldwide. Unless they are offered at auction, their return home is highly unlikely, Ji said.
Actor Jackie Chan poses with his Honorary Award at the 8th Annual Governors Awards in Los Angeles, California, US, November 12, 2016. [Photo/Agencies]
Chinese actor Jackie Chan, British film editor Anne V. Coates, American casting director Lynn Stalmaster and American documentary filmmaker Frederick Wiseman were presented with the Academy's Honorary Awards Saturday night to recognize their lifetime contributions to the film industry.
The honors were presented at the eighth annual Governors Awards ceremony at the Ray Dolby Ballroom at Hollywood & Highland Center.
"The Honorary Award was created for artists like Jackie Chan, Anne Coates, Lynn Stalmaster and Frederick Wiseman -- true pioneers and legends in their crafts," Cheryl Boone Isaacs, president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, said, "The Board is proud to honor their extraordinary achievements."
The Cat Who Lived a Million Times. [Photo/amazon.cn]
Cats, due to their mysterious lives and charming feline character, have always been popular pets. It is said that a cat may have nine lives, yet have you ever heard of a cat that lived a million times?
Japanese writer Yoko Sano created such a cat in her book The Cat Who Lived a Million Times, which was introduced to China in 2004.
The book has now been sold more than a million times in China.
A meeting was held, to promote the writer's books, in Beijing on November 11. Writers and Sano's faithful readers shared their understanding of the book.
Few people actually know Sano was born in Beijing in 1938 and moved to Dalian later. She returned to Japan at the age of 7.
Having died in Tokyo in 2010, Sano came to China in 2007, and said Beijing was her hometown and that she was a Beijing person.
"Her primary life was in China. And the first cat she saw is a Chinese one in a small courtyard where she lived. The cat in Sano's early memory and her affection toward the animal were also born in China," said Tang Yaming, senior editor, translator who has been a friend of the writer for more than twenty years.
The picture book illustrated a cat that has one million masters in its one million lives, including an atrocious King, an old woman, a little girl and a brave sailor.
Each master weeps for its passing away, yet the arrogant cat never sheds a drop of tear for them. The animal doesn't care about life and death nor love and affection. Until it meets a white cat, the cat becomes its first and last love.
"I should have read this book earlier. It is a big regret that I found it until I was 30 years old," a reader named Hu Yan said on Amazon.
The book earned an average 4.4 stars out of 5 on Amazon.cn and also a high score of 8.9 points out of 10 on Douban, a Chinese popular review site.
"The cat in the book has a very special life journey, and it really died after truly falling in love. Sano pictured a very interesting character for readers," said Gao Hongbo, deputy chairman of the China Writers Association.
According to Bai Bing, chief editor of the Jieli Publishing House, the book gave a boost to the development of picture books in China as a classic that breaks the boundaries between the world of adults and that of children.
"I was very young when my mother worked on this book and can't remember clearly about the way she created the cat. And among all her illustrations, I like this book best," said the writer's son.
Bernard Buckman visits China as a personal guest of Vice-Premier Wang Zhen in 1979. Photos provided to China Daily
The prominent auction houses Sotheby's, Christie's and Bonhams may have all hosted sales during Asian Art in London - an annual 10-day extravaganza ended on Saturday in the British capital - but there is a small auction house that's set to make a big splash among the heavyweights.
On Monday, Chiswick Auctions will host a sale featuring the entire collection of Bernard Buckman, a key figure in Sino-British trade relations during the second half of the 20th century.
Buckman traveled to China multiple times - most notably in 1979 as a personal guest of Vice-Premier Wang Zhen - and the Englishman's 120-strong collection reflects someone who was both an enterprising businessman and keen patron of the arts. It also offers a window into China during a time when it was just opening up to the world.
"Buckman went to China every year from 1953 and more frequently after around 1962," says Lazarus Halstead, Chiswick Auction's head of Asian art.
"He was communicating with top government officials. No (other) Westerner had that level of access."
Buckman's collection runs the gamut from snuff bottles, jades and scholarly items to paintings and furniture, with price estimates starting from around $120 and going to $36,000.
Ink artist Wang Dongling's "chaos calligraphy" is on display. Photos provided to China Daily
Ink artist Wang Dongling, 71, is holding two exhibitions in Beijing to show his achievements in traditional calligraphy and latest experiments with "chaos calligraphy", his unique, innovative and radical script style.
At the exhibition being held at the Tiamiao temple on Monday, titled Between Heaven & Heart, Wang will display a piece work of "chaos calligraphy" in which he rewrote in white paint the Chinese divination classics I-Ching, or Book of Changes, on a 32-meter-long glass board.
The script, regardless of its unrecognizable style, brings a renewed visual experience of which people focus on the rhythm of lines instead of the meaning of characters.
Also on show are dozens of works written in the caoshu running script.
Such "chaos calligraphy" works are also shown at another ongoing solo exhibition, titled Writing Chaos, at Ink Studio in the Caochangdi art district, through Nov 20. Also being displayed there is a video showing his creating process that is quite performing.
The invention of "chaos calligraphy" reflects Wang's diligent practice over several decades and his deepening understanding of the calligraphic spirit. He was also inspired by the poetic scene of tangled stems of wilted lotus on the famous West Lake in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. He attempts to recreate the beauty of withering between his writing of lines.
247 UNC system programs (undergraduate and graduate) were flagged as low-producing, but 200 of those were retained because the universities either had "plans to increase enrollment" or because the programs were related to the "core mission" of their respective university. Of the remaining 47 programs, 25 were flagged for a Board of Governors vote on discontinuation, and 22 were merged with other programs.
An unlikely champion of more university oversight emerged at a recent University of North Carolina system Board of Governors [BOG] meeting. During a discussion about the board's long-term strategic goals on October 13, James A. Anderson, Chancellor of Fayetteville State University, urged board members to adopt more scrutiny over degree programs that fail to attract and successfully graduate students.asked Anderson.The chancellor says he's taking a bolder approach at FSU.he said.Anderson was referring to the biennial academic program review, which tasks the UNC system's General Administration with evaluating the efficiency of every degree program offered at the system's 16 schools. In total, the UNC system offers nearly 1,000 bachelor's, 700 masters, and 200 doctoral degree programs. The administration conducted the last review in 2014 and will initiate the new cycle soon.Such reviews are designed to produce a list of "low productive" degree programs. Currently, the general administration flags bachelor's programs that have produced fewer than 11 graduates in the past year, have a current upper division enrollment of fewer than 26 students, and fewer than 21 graduates in the last two years. The thresholds used to evaluate master's and doctoral programs are similar.The BOG then has the authority to eliminate those programs, more closely monitor them, or allow them to continue if they are deemed vital to the mission of the university, of "high societal need," or necessary to deliver "access and opportunity" to minority students. As the Pope Center previously reported , in 2014:State law grants the BOG authority to "withdraw approval of any existing program if it appears that the program is unproductive, excessively costly, or unnecessarily duplicative." In practice, however, the board has adopted a relatively loose oversight process, one in which individual campuses handle most of the decision-making.When campus officials argue that some of their low productive programs are critical to the success of their universities and to the state, the BOG often makes exemptions without debating those claims' legitimacy. As such, it has become more difficult to eliminate some underperforming programs, and taxpayers remain on the hook for them.Unfortunately, it doesn't appear that the BOG is poised to make meaningful changes to the review process. It recently approved a plan to pilot new thresholds that consider only the number of degrees awarded over five years, rather than the three-prong approach using two years' worth of data. According to system leaders, this will result in roughly the same number of programs flagged for review.But university officials seem to be overlooking an important point. Simply having an adequate number of students isn't indicative of success. For example, a moderately popular degree program with 30 graduates a year and a large number of highly paid faculty members is no more economically efficient than a smaller program with fewer, lower-paid faculty members. A truly improved system would give policymakers more information about the resources needed to sustain degree programs.When the BOG votes to discontinue a program, cost savings are not immediately apparent. An evaluation of every available program elimination since 2011 yielded no information about whether taxpayer money was saved or increased efficiency was achieved. And when asked by board members if eliminating a certain program would result in the elimination of faculty positions, university leaders often noted that the faculty would simply continue to teach their courses or shuffle into other programs.Given the issues with the program elimination process, it makes sense for the BOG to pay more attention to the front-end of this process-when programs are initially approved.Proposals to establish new programs are supposed to follow a rigorous application process. Institutions must provide proof of the following: demonstrated capacity of the institution to deliver a quality program, student demand for the program, societal demand (employment opportunities for graduates), budget and source of funding for the proposed program, collaboration possibilities with other degree programs within the system, and relationship of the new degree program with the university's mission.BOG members are supposed to review proposals and evaluate them according to the standards above. In some instances, however, programs are approved with little or no debate about their true merits. As a result, dubious programs have filtered through.For instance, the Pope Center has found that taxpayers subsidize more than $50,000 per student enrolled in UNC-Chapel Hill's Master of Fine Arts in Costume Production, a program with little benefit to the North Carolina workforce. An even more outlandish program is North Carolina State University's Global Luxury Management program, which emphasizes "experiential learning" with trips to fashion boutiques in Europe and New York.The purpose of the degree review process is to set boundaries on the types of programs that universities offer and provide better stewardship of taxpayer funds. Today, however, there is no clear-cut oversight process in place. In some instances, universities have been allowed to bypass system regulations and keep poorly performing programs; in other instances, officials have sidestepped the initial review process, which is designed to weed out dubious degree proposals.Of course, giving some latitude to campuses makes sense, since department heads and other university leaders presumably have more intimate knowledge of degree program minutiae and the short- and long-term viability of their various offerings. But by granting too much leeway to university officials, system leaders have in some instances neglected their duty to the public-they've failed to curb the self-interest of faculty who control curricula and may sometimes have goals that don't align with those of their respective universities or the system.For FSU Chancellor James. A. Anderson, the solution lies in better oversight at the system level and the campus level.he said,History shows that, in terms of its degree review process, the UNC system's Board of Governors has been at times willing to yield to pressure from campuses. While the efforts of Chancellor Anderson should be commended, it doesn't follow that other chancellors in the system will soon adopt such a bold, reform-minded stance. As such, going forward, BOG members would do well to take greater ownership of the review process and ensure that degree offerings are more efficient and that there is a more transparent accounting of their costs and benefits.
Artist Sean Scully. [Photo provided to China Daily] American-Irish artist Sean Scully's installation China Piled Up is now on display in Shanghai's West Bund area as part of a project called Xian Chang (On the ground). American-Irish artist Sean Scully's installation China Piled Up is now on display in Shanghai's West Bund area as part of a project called Xian Chang (On the ground).
Scully was inspired to produce the 15-meter-long work, which comprises 83 steel frames stacked atop each other, by his first visit to China two years ago and Chinese calligraphy.
Through his art, Scully addresses China's rise as the steel capital of the world and its economic ties with the West, while looking at the relationship between line and space, which is also discussed in Chinese calligraphy circles.
Scully says the frames in the work are also like "skeletons" of objects like boxes, and people can enter these spaces to feel an eternal power.
The work, commissioned by the London-based Timothy Taylor Gallery, was produced following an invitation by the West Bund Art & Design fair, an annual event that began in 2014, and which is typically held from Nov 8-13.
The installation will be on display until the end of December.
Tang Yin's calligraphy scroll in xingshu, or semi-cursive script, sold for 59.6 million yuan ($8.7 million) in Beijing. Photos provided to China Daily
A calligraphy scroll in xingshu, or semi-cursive script, has sold for 60 million yuan ($8.7 million) at a Beijing sale of classic Chinese paintings and calligraphy.
One of the "four great masters of Ming Dynasty", Tang Yin (1470-1524) composed three poems for this piece expressing his dissatisfaction at not being recognized in polite circles.
It was included in the Catalog of Ancient Chinese Paintings and Calligraphy compiled in the 1980s.
The calligraphy generated competitive bidding in China Guardian Auctions' "Grand View" sale.
Dozens of classic Chinese paintings and calligraphic pieces went under the hammer.
These increasingly rare items have attracted more interest over the last three years with buyers seeking a sound source of origin.
A four-screen painting of flowers and birds by Zhu Da (1626-1705), also known as Bada Shanren, the legendary monk painter and a descendant of the Ming royal family, fetched the second biggest selling price. The painting sold for 43.7 million yuan.
Guofang Tie (A Letter to Visiting Friend) by Song Dynasty poet and calligrapher Zeng Yu (1073-1135) came in third, grossing 40.2 million yuan.
A biotechnology workshop was held on Nov 7 and 8 in Qingdao, Shandong province with various topics in the area of industrial biotechnology being discussed.
The two-day workshop attracted around 20 German scientists and entrepreneurs from the Germany-based Cluster for Industrial Biotechnology (CLIB2021), in addition to dozens of local industrial and academic partners.
The so-called "CLIB-Qingdao Biotechnology Workshop 2016" was organized by CLIB China representation, and co-sponsored by the Qingdao Science and Technology Exchange Center and the Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology (QIBEBT) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).
QIBEBT Assistant Director General Zheng Yonghong delivered a warm welcome speech. Manfred Kircher, chairman of the advisory board of CLIB2021, gave inspiring remarks.
Zheng Yonghong said, "To address global energy and environmental problems, increasing efforts toward bioenergy and biotechnology have been made. Biotechnology is playing an increasingly important role in the areas of environmental protection, the chemical industry, food and health care, and so on".
Speakers from CLIB2021, Chinese academia such as Shandong University, CAS institutions (including Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Institute of Microbiology, Institute of Oceanology and QIBEBT) and Qingdao-based enterprises, such as Bright Moon Seaweed Group and Vland Biotech Group, exchanged ideas and searched for potential partners.
The CLIB2021 delegates also visited local star biotech enterprises, in order to promote potential international collaboration and technology transfers in the area of industrial biotechnology.
"The workshop has contributed to a mutual understanding among all its participants, and it will lay a better foundation for further cooperation in biotechnology between Germany and China", said Zheng.
Zheng Yonghong, assistant director general of QIBEBT, delivers a keynote speech during the CLIB-Qingdao Biotechnology Workshop 2016, which was held on Nov 7 and 8. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
2022-10-28
Foreign enterprises remain upbeat about investment prospects in Tianjin with more capital increase in the northern China port city.
Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks at a post Republican Convention campaign event in Cleveland, Ohio, July 22, 2016. [Photo/Agencies]
The US administration of President Barack Obama announced on Friday its suspension of efforts to win congressional approval for Trans-Pacific Partnership, saying it was up to president-elect Donald Trump and Republican lawmakers.
Considering Trump's clear expression of opposition to the deal several times and even labeling it a "disaster", it seems likely that the TPP is now dead.
Obama remarked that the US would not allow countries such as China make the global trade rules and vowed US-led domination of the process shortly after representatives of TPP member states reached a consensus in October 2015. Given that the TPP members combined account for 40 percent of the world's total economy and that China is excluded from the bloc, it has been widely believed that the TPP is aimed at containing China and excluding it from regional economic integration.
However, the Obama administration's push for the TPP was not well-received in the US. Labor unions, in particular, expressed concerns about the deal, saying it would cost jobs in the US. Considering his campaign stance, Trump is expected to put domestic issues, such as how to promote economic development and employment, top of his agenda after he is sworn in as president. So his first move may be to renounce the TPP in a bid to appease his supporters.
In fact, since China is the largest trader in goods, no country in the world can afford not to have economic and trade links with it. Of the 12 TPP member states, five have reached FTA agreements with China and seven are participating in the discussions for the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership that is inclusive of China.
No matter what strategic intentions there were behind Obama's TPP campaign, the trend of globalization will not change and any attempt to contain China will be no avail. Trade agreements must be built on the principles of common development, mutual benefit and reciprocity.
--CCTV.COM
A number of girls beat and kick a fellow female student who kneels down on the ground in Yongxin county, Jiangxi province. [Photo/ Weibo]
ON FRIDAY, THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, along with eight other central departments, jointly published a guiding document on preventing campus violence. The document stresses that if the perpetrators break the law they should be handed over to the police. A Beijing News editorial praises this move:
This is not the first time that the ministry has introduced measures aimed at curbing campus violence. As early as May, it launched a campaign to deal with the issue.
Yet campus violence is still quite rampant. Several cases have even aroused nationwide concern, because the perpetrators not only beat the victims, but in some cases also removed the clothing of female victims and took photos of their naked bodies, which left psychological scars on the victims.
The root problem lies in some schools insisting on punishing the perpetrators with campus discipline instead of calling the police, even though some incidents have already broken the law and the perpetrators should face legal punishments. The disciplinary penalties of the schools are, of course, much lighter than judicial punishments.
The schools do not want the perpetrators of such crimes to go to court because it may harm their reputations so they prefer to "forget the bad things". They think that by turning a blind eye to any wrongdoing that happens on campus, they can cheat everybody and avoid a scandal. The problem is, the more they try to hide it, the bigger their scandal is.
Worse, by trying to hide the scandal instead of solving it, the schools have actually encouraged the rampancy of campus violence. When the minors who brutalize their schoolmates get extremely light penalty because of their young age, they might commit serious crimes in the future.
Some very severe criminal cases committed by secondary even primary school pupils have already shocked the nation. Among them, a most notable one must be the case of three pupils, aged from 11 to 13, who killed a female teacher in Shaodong, Central China's Hunan province. This July, a 13-year-old killed three children in South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, yet he received no judicial penalty because he was under 14.
Such cases should arouse our concern. It is time we solved the problem of campus violence with rule of law.
Editor's note: The American Chamber of Commerce in China held a seminar on "The Next US President and Beyond" in Beijing on Wednesday. The following are excerpts from the speeches of four participants:
SONG CHEN/CHINA DAILY
Hope for positive Sino-US ties
James Zimmerman [China Daily]
This US presidential election has been about the rise of unconventional candidates. And it is not only in the United States but also over issues such as Brexit that unconventional candidates are rising in many countries. This should make us realize that people have anxieties about their future. This is a global trend, and no country can be immune to it. So China has to pay special attention to the underlying anxiety among people in the US.
The US and China are the largest and second-largest economies in the world, and they need to work together. The two economies are highly integrated and interdependent. Therefore, the questions being raised on globalization are a cause for concern for their leaderships, especially because the Sino-US relationship has to be constructive and positive.
James Zimmerman, chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China
US President-elect Donald Trump speaks at election night rally in Manhattan, New York, US, November 9, 2016. [Photo/Agencies]
Battlegrounds have been drawn this past week in the United States' historic election, and POTUS 2017 will, for the first time since Dwight Eisenhower, go to a man who has never before held public office as an elected official.
With pretty much all of heartland America and the South going to president-elect Donald Trump, only the West coast and Northeast really showed any favor towards a Clinton administration. Predicted to win in most polls prior to the election, most Liberals underestimated just how disenfranchised the working class of America had become with what they saw as a corrupt political and economic establishment that had sold them out over the past two decades.
With the election of Trump, Americans have made it clear that they want factories to stay in the US, a wall built to separate them from Mexico, a tougher government on Islamic extremism and immigration, and public works projects to rebuild their outdated infrastructure. Liberals and the American left have been protesting ever since Trump's declared victory, with California even threatening to 'Calexit'. However, while these bleeding-heart liberals anchored by CNN continue to cry fowl, they should settle down and think about what the possibilities are now that the political establishment is undergoing a real watershed from someone truly outside politics. Indeed, a sea change has been demanded by people fed up with the Clinton and Bush oligarchies, and eight years of Obama not really delivering on the hope on which his presidency was founded.
Now, while some of Trump's most provocative comments have come at the hands of Mexico and China over trade, that does not mean the leadership in China should be mimicking the histrionics of Hillary's voting base. Trump is well known for calling China out on a perceived trade imbalance and the contention that China manipulates its currency to create an off-level playing field with the United States. That being said, the leadership in China should be glad that Trump won and not Hillary.
To begin, Trump's comments are just that comments. And it is pretty evident after his victory speech and recent demeanor that Trump the president will be a much cooler head than Trump the political candidate. The most probable outcome is that jobs and factories in China with American multinationals will stay in China. Trump, however, will make it very difficult for any new companies to jump ship and move their factories to China or Mexico during his administration.
Secondly, Trump is a businessman first and foremost and understands how interdependent both the USA and China are when it comes to international trade, and will not do anything drastic to change that. Any major hit to China's economy would be felt in America is well, and that could be a disaster for both countries. Ergo, slapping high tariffs on future incoming Chinese goods is improbable.
Third is the Russia card. Putin and Trump have already shown a willingness to work together (which never would have been on the table with Hillary), and as such, Putin will predictably have leverage with Trump over dealings with China. If Trump were to sour China, he would also seriously risk souring Russia, which is not a likely scenario given the current climate between the two leaders.
And last is the military. Most experts would agree that Hillary would have been much more Hawkish on China in regards to the South China Sea and any other geopolitical hot buttons that could have seen confrontation. Trump has talked tough when it comes to IS and the Middle East, but will most likely not want to exacerbate any current sabre rattling in East Asia. For that, China should be relieved they won't have to deal with Hillary.
Alas, the seemingly never-ending election is finally over, which is something I think should make everyone in America, and those who follow politics, relieved. And in the case of China, and all those who live here, we should be more at ease with Donald Trump as the future president of the United States.
The author is a freelance Writer and China Daily Contributor.
The opinions expressed here are those of the writer and don't represent views of China Daily website.
Large number of students turn out in Baotou, Inner Mongolia, along with their parents and teachers, for a greening, environmental protection, tree planting activity, on April 9. [Photo/Baotou Daily]
ON SATURDAY, the first environmental inspection group, sent by the central government, concluded its inspection of Inner Mongolia autonomous region, which lasted from July 14 to Aug 14. Out of the 89 protection zones in the autonomous region, 41 were found to be home to illegal activities and failed to protect the environment inside them. Beijing News comments:
If you are not astonished about some natural protection zones breaking the law, surely the number of the zones involved must shock you. Almost half of all the natural protection zones are involved.
Worse, this happened in Inner Mongolia where the government has paid much attention to the environment. Inner Mongolia used to suffer from expansion of its desert because of over exploitation of its forests into farmland, as well as overuse of its water resources. But over the past decade the government has introduced a number of programs to protect the environment, such as returning farmlands to woodland and establishing the natural protection zones.
Establishing natural protection zones is one of the most important steps in protecting the environment. Inside the zones, the law forbids hunting, cutting down trees, and raising cattle, in order to preserve the natural resources.
But such prohibitions often come at the cost of economic growth, and Inner Mongolia's economy still lags behind and it is still considered an underdeveloped region. When there is a conflict between the environment and economic interests, the local government and the local residents always tend to choose the latter. That leads to illegal activities, such as exploiting the natural resources inside the zones, which violate the law.
In order to solve this problem, we need to, first of all, strengthen the rule of law. Whatever excuse local officials have, when they fail to correct, even get involved in, the illegal activities in the natural protection zones, higher authorities should punish them instead of turning a blind eye to their breaking the law. Only with strict implementation of the law can we better protect the natural environment in Inner Mongolia.
Besides, it is time to offer some favorable policies to support the economic development of Inner Mongolia.
Advise & Consent (Otto Preminger, 1962). Story involves a president trying to get his nominee for Secretary of State through the Senate. Its fascinating to look at Congress as it might have been so many years ago. Every senator is a white male, with the exception of one man from Hawaii, and one woman, played by Betty White in her feature film debut. The Republicans and Democrats get along quite nicely in comparison to how it is today. The two worst things you can be are a Communist or a homosexual. The Commie is played by Henry Fonda, and were so used to seeing him as the moral center that its disconcerting. His character wasnt a real Commie, of course, just someone who had a brief fling in his college years, but in 1962 thats enough (plus, he believes in peace, of all things). The gay senator commits suicide rather than reveal his secret. Most of the cast underplays, leaving the hammy stuff to Charles Laughton as a good old Southern boy. Laughton makes the most of his final film. Most of the key players are based on real-life politicians, which might have been easier to spot when the film came out. Its all a bit silly, and Im not sure how accurate is its representation of the Senate, but it moves along, never boring through its 139 minutes. Preminger even finds room for Burgess Meredith and Will Geer, two victims of the blacklist. 7/10.
Arrival (Denis Villenueve, 2016). Ive liked the previous movies Ive seen from Villenueve (Sicario, Prisoners, and especially Incendies). I wrote of Incendies, Its the individual scenes, and the growing sense of discovery, that makes Incendies special. The acting by female leads Lubna Azabal and Melissa Desormeaux-Poulin adds immensely to the films power. The ending doesnt make a lot of sense on a logical scale, but it delivers an honest emotional punch just the same. I felt the same about Arrival, which benefits from Amy Adams controlled, inquisitive performance as a linguist asked to communicate with aliens. Arrival is another film in the category of Praised for What It Isnt. Its a story about aliens coming to Earth, but there is hardly any action. The special effects are mostly limited to the alien ships, which are lovely and look like flying saucers turned on their side. Most of the lead actors avoid overdoing it. All of this helps, but there isnt enough here to warrant excessive praise. Still, Adams may be looking at another Oscar nomination (she already has five). At one point, she tries to communicate with the aliens by holding up a sign that reads HUMAN and pointing to herself. And you think, yes, this person is a human, and its good to see something so basic in what could easily turn into a cheesy sci-fi flick. Ive avoided discussing the plot, which is of the Must See It More Than Once school of inscrutability. Im sure there are already websites devoted to explaining Arrival, but Im not much more interested than I was about the 2001 theories. But thanks to Adams, it was easy enough to just roll with Arrival, even if for me, it was much ado about not much. 7/10.
The Stone Forest in Kunming is a thicket of limestone formations that create a topographical miracle. ERIK NILSSON/CHINA DAILY
Three days of exploring Yunnan's capital reveals a land where geology, ecology and ethnology congeal to conjure a magical charm, Erik Nilsson discovers.
Stone spires. Karst caves. Wild wetlands.
Eclectic ethnic culture, languid lakes and fiery fare.
All this, set in a city of perpetual spring, where verdant landscapes flash every shade of green and flowers crackle color like fireworks in every season.
The city exists on an unparalleled plane, where geology, ecology and ethnology intersect in incredible ways.
It has long been a bastion for bohemians, from ancient literati to dreadlocked hippies todayfor good reason.
The place is poetry.
Foreign visitors from dozens of countries can enjoy a 72-hour visa-free transit in the city. China Daily spends three days divining the magic that Yunnan's capital conjures.
DAY 1: Stone Forest
Countless stone daggers slice the Stone Forest's skyline, lacerating the horizon to sculpt one of our planet's most unearthly places.
The karst formations have, in turn, forged the culture that dwells amid them.
They serve as the fantastical fairyland setting for a fairy tale of the Yi ethnic group's Sanyi branch, in which a local shepherd rescues his true love from an evil landlord, who tragically then turns the couple to stone.
The topographical miracle is worth setting aside a whole day to explore. That's not only because guides say much of their job is helping lost people navigate their way out of the rocky labyrinths.
TEHRAN - Russia's Federation Council Chairperson Valentina Ivanovna Matvienko arrived in the Iranian capital city of Tehran on Sunday for multi-dimensional talks with senior Iranian officials, Press TV reported.
During her two-day official visit, Matvienko will meet with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani and Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif.
Matvienko is accompanied in her trip by the chairman of Russian Federation Council's defense and security committee, Viktor Ozerov, and a number of parliamentary officials, According to the report.
She will bring up a variety of issues in the talks with the Iranian officials, including ways to improve parliamentary cooperation and to reinforce convergence in the Middle East to fight terrorism in Syria, Matvienko told official IRNA news agency earlier.
Tehran and Moscow have stressed the importance of bolstering cooperation and taken positive steps and made great achievements in this regard, she added.
File photo shows that Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Sun Weidong speaks at the celebration of the 65th Anniversary of China-Pakistan ties. [Photo/Xinhua]
GWADAR, Pakistan - Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Sun Weidong said here Sunday that the concept of "one corridor with multiple passages" under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has been realized as the first bilateral joint trade convoy reached Gwadar port from China's Kashgar.
Addressing a ceremony celebrating the arrival of the co-organized trade convoy, Sun said this is the first time that a trade convoy successfully passed through the western part of Pakistan from the north to the south. "It proves the connectivity of local roads, and realization of the concept of 'one corridor with multiple passages'," said the ambassador.
He added that the trade convoy is the best reflection of the spirits of mutual consultation, joint construction, mutual benefits and win-win cooperation, and the spirits will serve as the solid basis for the future construction of the CPEC.
Sun also commented that the CPEC has entered into full implementation with remarkable progress as 16 early harvest projects are under construction and tens of thousands of new jobs have been created for local people.
Meanwhile, with the loading of the last container onto the COSCO Wellington cargo vessel, Gwadar port also marked its first export of a large number of containers to overseas destinations, showing that the port has restored the designed handling capacity.
For his part, Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said that the CPEC is destined to transform the entire country and open up a world of possibilities for not just Pakistan but also Central Asian states and the rest of Asia.
He said that China-proposed Belt and Road initiative matches Pakistan's "Vision 2025" and the two projects will enhance connectivity among regional countries and provide opportunities for shared development.
A woman lights candles to pay respect in front of the Bataclan concert hall in Paris, France, November 13, 2016 after a ceremony held for the victims of last year's Paris attacks which targeted the Bataclan concert hall as well as a series of bars and killed 130 people. [Photo/IC]
China is ready to achieve more progress in China-US ties after the election of Donald Trump as the next US president, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Sunday.
"We're willing to communicate with Trump's team, enhance mutual understanding and broaden our consensus on cooperation," he said in Ankara at a joint news conference with his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu.
Wang was there to co-chair the first meeting of the China-Turkey consultation mechanism.
He told reporters that China and the US have kept close contact at all levels, and it is the consensus of both US Republicans and Democrats to develop and deepen the bilateral relationship.
"We're willing to continue cooperation with the Obama administration, to ensure the smooth transition of our relationship to the next US administration," he said.
In a congratulatory message to Trump on his election on Wednesday, President Xi Jinping said China is willing to push China-US relations further forward from a new starting point, on the basis of principles of non-conflict, non-confrontation, mutual respect and win-win cooperation.
"This has shown the direction for future development of bilateral ties," Wang said, adding that China is willing to work together with the US in this regard.
More and more people could be lifting their spirits, the Chinese way.
For Moutai, China's leading liquor producer, the new buzzwords are technological innovation and continuous expansion into overseas markets, and the brand is getting a shot in the arm in San Francisco.
On Nov 12, Kweichow Moutai Group kicked off a series of celebrations by hosting a grand banquet and product exhibition at the Palace of Fine Arts to commemorate the first anniversary of Moutai Day in San Francisco.
A delegation led by Li Baofang, general manager of Kweichow Moutai Group of Guizhou, is on a mission to strengthen liquor cultural integration with its Western counterparts, enhance communications with global consumers and help facilitate China-US relations through a variety of platforms that involve people, business and governments on both sides.
During Moutai's overseas centennial celebration held at San Francisco City Hall last year, Mayor Ed Lee named Nov 12 the city's Moutai Day.
In his speech to 500 guests on Saturday night, Li reviewed Moutai's history of growth, brand development and its journey to internationalization by recalling that it had won a gold award at the 1915 Panama Pacific International Exposition which was held "at exactly the same place where we hold the gala tonight."
San Francisco remains a city of opportunity and a shrine to generations of Moutai group employees, Li said, adding "Our ancestors rarely traveled outside of the local town but all of us know the liquor we made through hard word and artisan spirit is well received throughout the world," Li said.
For 100 years, the group has been sustaining the original artisan spirit, adapting to changing environments and embracing technology innovation in order to maintain the legacy of the "Moutai miracle" and Moutai's iconic ranking in China's liquor industry, Li said.
Currently, Moutai products are sold in more than 60 countries and regions in Asia, Europe, the Americans, Oceania and Africa with its liquor exports reaching 614 tons by the end of August, representing a yearly growth of 12.9 percent.
The group reported a net profit of approximately $2.5 billion by the end of August, a 6.7 percent yearly rise over the same period last year, according to Yuan Renguo, chairman of the group, adding that increased exports and expansion into other businesses such as e-commerce, investment and financial leasing contributed to the rise.
Moutai is also known as the "liquor of diplomacy and friendship", serving as the toaster of the normalization of China-US relationship in the 1970s through to the current building of a new type of major power relationship, said Li.
At the famous state dinner of 1972, then Chinese premier Zhou Enlai proposed a toast to visiting US president Richard Nixon with a glass of Moutai as the whole world looked on.
"When I paid a visit to former US president Jimmy Carter and presented him four bottles of Moutai," Li recalled, "Carter said he knew the liquor and called it well-known."
In June, 2013, visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping drank Moutai with his US counterpart President Barack Obama at Sunnylands as Xi initiated the concept of building a new type of major power relationship between the world's two largest economies.
Through political differences and ideological variances, Moutai remains the reliable anchor to revitalize the faith in friendship, said Li.
As the national liquor of China, "Moutai has played a big part in China's international relations and a significant role in celebrating major festive events and moving forward friendship between China and other countries," said Li.
Strolling around the exhibit booths check the lineup of Moutai products, Mayor Lee said, "Moutai is associated with many important celebrations, celebrations of new year, celebration of birthdays, celebrations for meaningful events that bring tons of understanding between many people," he said.
Calling himself a "big supporter of the success of Moutai not only in the US but the world", Li said, "when we drink Moutai, it brings us closer and can help us accomplish more than we think on the people-to-people level, on the local level, national level and international level."
BEIJING - China on Monday condemned the terrorist attack in Pakistan and reaffirmed its support to Pakistan in fighting this evil.
A bomb exploded at a shrine in Pakistan's southwest Balochistan district on Saturday night, killing over 60 and injuring more than 100, according to the latest figures from the Foreign Ministry.
"We are greatly shocked by the number of lives lost and injuries caused," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said Monday at a daily press briefing, expressing strong condemnation to the attack and extending condolences to the families of the dead and injured.
He said that China opposes all forms of terrorism and will continue to firmly support Pakistan in fighting against terrorism and protecting national stability and the safety of the people.
Ermenegildo Zegna, the luxury Italian menswear brand, opens a new branch in London's Bond Street, the home of many luxury brands' flagship stores. [Photo/provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
Ermenegildo Zegna, the luxury Italian menswear brand, is targeting overseas Chinese shoppers at a new branch it has opened in London's Bond Street, the home of many luxury brands' flagship stores.
The number of Chinese tourists visiting the UK reached a new record high of 270,000 in 2015. Those visitors spent more than 586 million pounds ($738 million), according to VisitBritain, the UK's official tourism board.
To better respond to the influx of Chinese customers, the new Zegna London Global Store has hired Chinese-speaking sales staff and the services of personalized consultants who can explain the brand's history and culture.
Ermenegildo Zegna, the fourth-generation CEO who runs the family brand, said: "Chinese customers are one of our biggest clienteles. By offering native speaking staff , who understand the culture and the customers' needs, we are able to bring a comfortable shopping experience to our Chinese patrons."
To satisfy the particular tastes of Chinese customers, the fashion house in London has stocked a wide range of luxurious menswear collections.
"Chinese love light wear because they use the products for traveling, and also they adore sportswear and leather goods," said Zegna."We have a good assortment of those products in the London Global Store particularly catering to the tastes of the Chinese."
The Italian company, which has its own sheep farms in Australia that supply wool to mills in Italy, opened a branch in China in 1991, becoming the first luxury apparel company to launch a store within the Chinese market.
Greater China is now its biggest single market, accounting for about one third of its global sales of 1.26 billion euros ($1.37 billion) in 2015.
"This would not happen if we did not take the market seriously by making the early entry, building the right store, creating the right team and keeping investing in new things," Zegna said.
He believes retailers selling in the China market should never stand still and rest on their laurels, because customers keep asking for more products and services, and because competition is fierce.
"To remain a leader as a menswear luxury brand in China, you have to keep renewing yourself and reinvesting in the brand to make sure that people are given superior service and a constant innovative brand proposition," Zegna said.
He added that China's key stores have become a testing ground for the company as it introduces new products and ideas because Chinese customers enjoy being exposed to fresh thinking.
BISMARCK, N.D. The Army Corps of Engineers on Monday said it has finished a review of the disputed Dakota Access pipeline but wants more study and tribal input before deciding whether to allow it to cross under a Missouri River reservoir in North Dakota.
The announcement, which came amid speculation that federal officials were on the brink of green-lighting the crossing, spells further delay for the project. Dallas-based Energy Transfer Partners, the company developing the pipeline, said earlier Monday that it expected to be moving oil through the pipeline by early next year if it got permission.
The corps in July granted ETP the permits needed for the project, but in September said more analysis was warranted in the wake of American Indian concerns. The Standing Rock Sioux, whose reservation will be skirted by the $3.8 billion, four-state pipeline, says it threatens its drinking water and cultural sites.
ETP disputes that and said last week it is preparing to bore under the river.
Army Assistant Secretary Jo-Ellen Darcy said in a letter to company officials and tribal Chairman Dave Archambault that "additional discussion with the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and analysis are warranted." That discussion is to include potential conditions on an easement for the pipeline crossing that would reduce the risk of a spill.
Darcy said the Army will work with the tribe on a timeline "that allows for robust discussion and analysis to be completed expeditiously." Army spokeswoman Moira Kelley would not elaborate to The Associated Press on whether a decision would be done by the time President Barack Obama leaves office. Donald Trump, a pipeline supporter, is set to take office in January.
Archambault and ETP spokeswoman Vicki Granado did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Attorney Jan Hasselman with environmental group Earthjustice, which filed the lawsuit in July on behalf of the tribe, said he believes the Obama administration will make a decision on the easement.
The 1,200-mile pipeline is to carry North Dakota oil through South Dakota and Iowa to a shipping point in Illinois.
The company building the $3.8 billion Dakota Access oil pipeline said before the Army announcement Monday that it expects to finish construction by Dec. 1, except for the small disputed section in North Dakota, and could begin moving crude early next year if the government gives final approval.
In an email to The Associated Press, ETP said it would finish the pipeline within 120 days of getting approval for the easement beneath Lake Oahe, the Missouri River reservoir in southern North Dakota.
Also Monday, officials locked down the North Dakota Capitol after pipeline opponents gathered there, one day before groups planned more than 200 protests at Army Corps of Engineers offices and other sites across the country.
Nearly 470 protesters have been arrested since August supporting the Standing Rock Sioux.
ETP said it has suffered losses "in the millions" to vandalized equipment along the pipeline route in North Dakota. The company said it was taking steps to protect the pipeline from vandalism, but declined to disclose details.
The rallies set for Tuesday at such places as state Army Corps offices, federal buildings and offices of banks that have helped finance the project are seeking to draw Obama's attention.
The groups, including the Indigenous Environmental Network, Honor the Earth and Greenpeace USA, want Obama to permanently halt the construction of the pipeline, the focus of confrontations between police and protesters in North Dakota for months.
A United Nations group that represents indigenous people around the world said the U.S. government appears to be ignoring the treaty rights and human rights of American Indians opposing the pipeline.
The Nov. 4 statement from the U.N. Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues called on the government to "protect the traditional lands and sacred sites of the Standing Rock Sioux and uphold their human rights commitments."
Forum member Edward John in late October visited a camp in North Dakota that's drawn hundreds of protesters from around the globe. He said he found a "war zone" atmosphere and that "I felt as though I was in an armed conflict zone on foreign soil."
Justice Department spokesman Wyn Horbuckle said the agency has been in communication with law officers, tribal officials and protesters "to facilitate communication, defuse tensions, support peaceful protests, and maintain public safety."
MARRAKECH, Morocco - China will continue to play an active role in climate change with much stronger actions, while enhancing cooperation with related parties.
The 22nd Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP22) is being held in the Moroccan city of Marrakech.
Participants in the meeting are expected to identify ways for a potential future coalition and adopt a declaration on health, environment and climate change.
MUCH STRONGER ACTIONS
China has set up an ambitious target to reach the peaking of CO2 emissions around 2030, Xie Ji, a deputy chief of the Chinese delegation, said Thursday.
"Many cities promised they can reach their peaking before 2030, and a few cities try to achieve the target around 2020," said Xie, adding that many industries, especially energy-intensive ones, were asked to control CO2 emissions and try to reach the peaking around 2020.
Gou Haibo, another deputy chief of the Chinese delegation, said Wednesday that China would continue to uphold a development concept highlighting innovation, coordination, greenness, openness and sharing.
He said that China would act positively and forcefully in maintaining the international mechanism, promoting international cooperation and combating climate change.
CHINA-US COOPERATION CONTINUES
China's policies will not be affected by any external changes, Chen Zhihua, a member of the Chinese delegation, said Friday.
"No matter what happens in the new US government, China will continue to constructively participate in the international climate change process," Chen said.
Chen was referring to concerns that the United States will withdraw from the Paris Agreement on climate change after US President-elect Donald Trump, who vowed to cancel the agreement during his campaign, takes office in January.
"We still need to wait," Chen said, adding that now is not the right time to assess it.
Even if the United States withdraws from the agreement, cooperation between China and the US will continue, Chen said. "This is the attitude we hold toward the matter."
Catherine Novelli, US undersecretary of state for economic growth, energy and the environment, said the United States and China have an "incredible working relationship" on climate issues.
"And I think it would portend well for leadership for the future," Novelli said. "I think everybody acknowledges that the momentum for Paris was generated by the agreement between the US and China."
Novelli also said her country would continue the existing cooperation with China after Trump takes office in January.
The European Union has indicated it will work closely with China to prevent the US from backsliding on its commitment to the Paris climate agreement.
The message was delivered by a 12-strong European Parliament delegation before it left for Marrakech, Morocco, for the second week of the UN climate change conference.
Parties that have approved the global pact will start their first talks at the conference, and President Xi Jinping and United States President Barack Obama have signed three presidential documents to inject special political will into the approval process.
Jo Leinen, vice-chair of the European Parliament delegation, said in an email on Friday that the EU and China should join forces in Marrakech to push forward the Paris agreement. Leinen said both played a key role as brokers among different "camps" in the Paris negotiations.
"This time, in Marrakech, China is expected to line up with the EU," he said. "These two global powers should assume their responsibility by forming a new coalition with the aim of fighting for a progressive global climate policy."
Jonathan Taylor, vice-president of the European Investment Bank, said on Friday that the bank will boost co-financing with China on climate mitigation projects, as part of future plans to raise the proportion of climate investment in developing countries to 35 percent of its overall lending in these countries by 2020.
Progress can be made in building road maps for the $100 billion investment plan, he said, referring to the 2010 pledge by developed nations in Cancun, Mexico, to raise $100 billion a year by 2020 to help developing countries cope with climate change.
However, "major divergences persist" on the funding plan after a weeklong negotiation, said Gu Zihua, a representative with the Chinese delegation, amid a possible threat from US President-elect Donald Trump.
Shigeru Ushio, Japan's chief negotiator, said a US withdrawal from the Paris agreement would be "serious".
Kenneth Berlin, CEO of the Climate Reality Project, which was founded by former US vice-president Al Gore, warned that Trump's election could overshadow climate talks and is a disaster for international efforts to tackle climate change.
"If Trump follows through with his plan to withdraw, other developed nations will need to fill the place of the US."
Contact the writers at wangyanfei@chinadaily.com.cn
WASHINGTON - US presidential election winner Donald Trump on Sunday told his supporters to stop harassing minorities in his first televised interview as president-elect.
Trump said he was "saddened" by reports that incidents of harassment and intimidation of minorities had spiked since his election.
"I hate to hear that. I am so saddened to hear that," Trump said when asked about the reports at the interview with the CBS's "60 Minutes," which was taped Friday and aired in full Sunday.
Police across the country are investigating a wave of alleged hate crimes against Muslims, Hispanic Americans, black people, ethnic minorities and the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community in the wake of the US election.
Attackers professing support for Trump have been accused of numerous attacks following his shock victory, including death threats, physical assaults and racist graffiti.
Among the incident is the alleged robbery of a Muslim student at San Diego State University by two men who "made comments about President-elect Donald Trump and the Muslim community" before stealing her purse, rucksack and car.
There were also many reports of attacks on women wearing hijabs and Islamic dress.
Trump's election victory has sparked days of protests in several major cities nationwide, and analysts believe that the demonstrations may continue for some time.
The "we reject the president-elect" chant echoed far and wide again in New York City Saturday, as thousands of angry New Yorkers protested against Trump's win.
The protesters, mostly young people, gathered at Union Square in force and soon marched towards the Trump Tower on Fifth Avenue, residence and campaign headquarters of the real estate mogul and reality show star turned politician.
The police force of the city was on high alert, barricading the entrance of Trump Tower and many storefronts.
Protesters have also taken to the streets of Chicago, Miami, Denver, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Louisville, Kentucky, Baltimore and other cities.
While most protests have been peaceful, there have been reports of violence and at least one shooting.
A man was shot and injured during a protest march in the early morning hours of Saturday in the city of Portland, the US state of Oregon, police said on Saturday.
The police said in a news release that the victim was participating in the protest march when he was shot, and that he was continuing to recover from his non-life-threatening injuries.
Analysts said the reason behind the widespread protests across the country is that Trump has elicited much controversy over the past year in one of the most controversial and nastiest presidential races.
The question remains whether the protests will continue, fade out, or even turn violent in the days and weeks to come.
"The protests against Trump will continue. Progressive forces are strongly opposed to Trump's agenda and will ferociously resist what he is doing. There is a risk that protests turn violent and exacerbate societal tensions," Brookings Institution Senior Fellow Darrell West told Xinhua.
LONDON - WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange faced questioning on Monday by prosecutors at the Ecuadorian embassy in London, where he has been holed up for four years, over allegations he committed rape in 2010.
Swedish Chief Prosecutor Ingrid Isgren arrived at the embassy to pose questions to Assange through an Ecuadorian prosecutor over the allegations which Assange has denied, a Reuters photographer at the scene said.
Assange, who enraged the United States by publishing hundreds of thousands of secret US diplomatic cables, took refuge in the embassy in August 2012 to avoid being extradited to Sweden over the rape allegation.
The 45-year-old Australian has refused to go to Sweden for questioning, saying he fears further extradition to the United States, where a criminal investigation into the publication of secret documents by WikiLeaks is ongoing.
Isgren and a police investigator will be able to ask questions through the Ecuadorian prosecutor, who will later report the findings to Sweden, prosecutors have said.
"After the report, the Swedish prosecutor will take a view on the continuing of the investigation," they said.
A Swedish appeals court decided in September to uphold Assange's arrest warrant, saying a strong public interest argument outweighed a case to set it aside based on the lengthy deadlock and a previous lack of impetus in pursuing the case.
Assange's request to have the warrant overturned came after a UN panel in February said his stay at the Ecuadorean embassy equalled arbitrary detention, that he should be let go and be awarded compensation.
Even if Sweden drops the investigation, however, Assange could be arrested for breaching bail conditions in Britain.
Chinas Relations With the West: Straight Line Decline
There are those who believe China's ongoing Party Congress will bode well for companies that do business in or with China. I am firmly convinced that the opposite is true and that it will used as yet another opportunity by China to show that it will not be cowered by the declining relations and sanctions/counter-sanctions between the United States / EU / Australia / Japan on the one hand, and China on the other. I see China using this Congress to let the world (domestic and external) know that it fully intends to fight back and fight back hard. In other words, this Party Congress will lead to China's decoupling from much of the world accelerating, not slowing down.
WILLISTON, N.D. The timing of the Dakota Access Pipeline completion remains unclear, but some companies have built short pipelines that are ready to deliver to the four-state project.
Six companies have built or proposed short oil pipelines to connect with Dakota Access in North Dakota, with three projects constructed and three others in various stages.
The pipelines would deliver oil from existing terminals or facilities in North Dakota directly to the Dakota Access Pipeline. With an initial capacity of 470,000 barrels per day, Dakota Access would become the Bakkens largest oil pipeline, but the timing of the project remains uncertain as the federal government has yet to authorize construction under Lake Oahe.
The 1,172-mile pipeline would deliver Bakken crude to Patoka, Ill., where oil can then be transported by the Energy Transfer Crude Oil Pipeline to Texas, providing the first direct link for North Dakota crude to Gulf Coast refineries.
We certainly think Dakota Access will be the interstate highway of Bakken oil and its critically important for the future of the Bakken, said Ron Ness, president of the North Dakota Petroleum Council.
Construction is underway now for the Caliber Bear Den Interconnect pipeline, a 5.3-mile pipeline in McKenzie County the North Dakota Public Service Commission approved on Nov. 2. The $12 million project is expected to deliver 50,000 barrels per day to a Dakota Access terminal near Watford City, with a maximum capacity of 75,000 barrels per day.
Construction was scheduled to begin last week and take about a month, according to documents filed with state regulators.
One Dakota Access connector, from a company with a large spill on its record, is still under consideration by the Public Service Commission.
Epping Transmission Co., a subsidiary of Summit Midstream Partners, proposes to build a 3.2-mile pipeline near Epping that would deliver 30,000 barrels a day, with a maximum capacity of 70,000 barrels per day. The $6.5 million project would have two separate pipeline connections, one to deliver oil to the Dakota Access Pipeline and the second to deliver oil to the existing Divide Mainline Pipeline.
A public hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. Nov. 22 in Williston.
Summit Midstream is the same company that owned the gathering pipeline that leaked nearly 3 million gallons of produced water north of Williston and contaminated Blacktail Creek, a Missouri River tributary. But the new proposed project would have a greater level of regulatory oversight than the produced water pipeline did when the spill was discovered in January 2015.
The other Dakota Access connector pipelines are:
Oasis Midstream Services constructed 19 miles of pipelines to deliver oil to a terminal owned by Dakota Access at the pipeline storage hub known as Johnsons Corner in McKenzie County. The project also can deliver oil to a facility owned by Tesoro. The $13 million project has been 99 percent complete since September, according to a report filed with the Public Service Commission.
During a hearing for the project, an Oasis representative said the pipeline would transport up to 75,000 barrels per day, eliminating up to 250 trucks per day off the roads.
Hess North Dakota Export Logistics constructed a 1.1-mile pipeline near Tioga to deliver oil from the Ramberg Truck Facility to a Dakota Access terminal. The $4.5 million project is expected to transport 50,000 barrels per day, with a maximum capacity of 70,000 barrels per day. Construction was completed in October with commissioning to be completed when Dakota Access is ready for operation, according to a Hess spokesman.
A 15-mile pipeline project by Sacagawea Pipeline Co. in McKenzie County included a 2-mile segment to connect with Dakota Access at the Johnsons Corner hub. The $20 million project is expected to transport 75,000 barrels per day.
That project has been listed as substantially complete since September, according to Public Service Commission records. Sacagawea Pipeline Co. is a joint business venture with Paradigm Energy Partners, Phillips 66 and Grey Wolf Midstream.
The Public Service Commission also approved a 3.5-mile pipeline from Plains All American Pipeline that would deliver oil to Dakota Access at Johnsons Corner in McKenzie County. Construction has not begun on that project and nothing filed with state regulators indicates a timeline. A company representative could not be reached for comment.
The $5 million project proposed to deliver about 50,000 barrels per day, with a maximum capacity of 150,000 barrels per day.
Dakota Access constructed six oil storage terminals in North Dakota, with tanks located near Stanley, Tioga, Epping, Trenton, Watford City and Johnsons Corner. The Trenton terminal is planned to begin receiving oil on or around Tuesday, Nov. 15, according to a third-party inspectors report filed with regulators.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is expected to announce a path forward for Dakota Access within days, according to statements made in federal court last week.
BISMARCK A soft lockdown was ordered Monday, Nov. 14, at the North Dakota Capitol after a group of protesters congregated on the building grounds.
The North Dakota Highway Patrol said those with key card access could still enter the building and while those inside are allowed to leave if they choose.
Protesters opposed to the Dakota Access Pipeline gathered on three sides of the Capitol late Monday morning.
Based off of past experience, that seems to be their intent, is to unlawfully gather and interrupt government functions, said Lt. Tom Iverson of the North Dakota Highway Patrol.
The Highway Patrol has posted troopers at each entrance to the building.
There are about 50 protesters gathered in three different groups on the Capitols grounds. They do not have a permit to protest on the grounds, Iverson said
Sir Elton is headed back to Montana for shows in Bozeman and Missoula next spring.
Elton John and His Band will perform March 7 at Brick Breeden Fieldhouse and March 8 at the Adams Center in Missoula.
The shows are part of an 11-city tour promoting his latest release, Wonderful Crazy Night and hits from his five-decade career.
Tickets for both shows go on sale on Friday, Nov. 18, at 10 a.m.
The shows are presented by AEG Live. Bozeman tickets are available at www.ticketswest.com or by phone at 1-800-325-7328.
Tickets for the Missoula show are available at www.griztix.com or 1-888-MONTANA.
Johns band features two longtime bandmates, Nigel Olsson, who was part of Johns original three-piece band, on drums; and Davey Johnson, who first recorded with John in 1971 and joined the band in 1972, on guitar.
John is one of the most successful artists of all time, with classic hits like Your Song, Crocodile Rock, Rocket Man, and Bennie and the Jets.
(Photo : Getty Images) US President-elect Donald Trump said he asked Apple's CEO Tim Cook to move its manufacturing arm in the US.
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U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has told The Wall Street Journal that he has spoken with or heard from most world leaders except Chinese President Xi Jinping.Trump's spokeswoman Hope Hicks later confirmed to American channel CNN that The Wall Street report was indeed "accurate."
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There is lot of ambiguity over whether or not Chinese president Xi made a congratulatory phone call to Trump.
A report by China's state broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV) claims that Xi called up Donald Trump soon after his victory became official.
CCTV quoted Xi saying that the two countries "shoulder a special responsibility" as the world's largest developed and developing nations. "China pays high attention to the Sino-US relationship and hopes to develop a sound, long-term and stable relationship with the US," Xi was quoted saying.
The Chinese leader allegedly further said that he hoped to "settle all disputes with the US in accordance with the principle of non-confrontation."
China's official news agency supported this story. It confirmed that Xi sent a congratulatory message to Trump without specifying whether this message was conveyed through a phone call or other diplomatic channel.
There are also unconfirmed reports claiming that several Chinese officials have said that there was no phone call between the Xi and Trump.
Phone call diplomacy post-Trump victory assumes lot of importance given that the US President-elect resorted to anti-Chinese rhetoric during his election campaign. He leveled many serious allegations against China including claiming that China is stealing US jobs and resorting to cheap steel dumping.
Trump's rhetoric earned him a lot of flaks from the Chinese public.
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Tagsdonald trump, Xi Jinping, Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, china, China and US
(Photo : ScottOlson/GettyImages) The first caravan of Chinese trucks carried goods for international trade to Gwadar in Pakistan.
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China's first trade convoy reached Gwadar in Pakistan on Saturday, signaling the opening of a part of the trade route between the two countries. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) forms a link between Xinjiang province in China with Baluchistan in Pakistan.
The first caravan of Chinese trucks carried goods for international trade. The convoy was escorted amid tight security. Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said that his country would extend the best possible security to foreign investors using the Pakistan port for international trade.
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Top Pakistani leaders saw off a Chinese ship departing from the newly constructed Gwadar port. The ship will take the cargo to the Africa and the Middle East. The Pakistan port is located in Baluchistan, which is currently facing an insurgency.
Foreign companies have security voiced concerns over their workers in Pakistan. The country has created a special force for the purpose of guarding the new trade routes as well as the port. The port in Gwadar was funded by China, which has committed $46 billion in aggregate for CPEC. The project also includes the construction of power plants.
Ahsan Iqbal, Pakistan's Minister for Planning and Development, said, "This investment will help to turn around not Pakistan's economy, but also it will enable Pakistan to become self-sufficient in energy and improve its infrastructure."
The port in Pakistan will provide China with easier access to the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Ocean. The country currently uses the Strait of Malacca. However, with the new Pakistan port, China will be able to access the Middle East and the Persian Gulf Region as well.
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Tagschina, Pakistan, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, Nawaz Sharif
(Photo : GerryCranham/GettyImages) Ron Dennis is fighting for his position at MacLaren.
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McLaren CEO Ron Dennis faces an uncertain future due to an ongoing battle in the automotive group. The company chief is fighting a court case filed by other shareholders of the company calling for him to step down.
The case against Dennis was filed by Bahrain's sovereign wealth fund Mumtalakat and Mansour Ojjeh, a Saudi-born businessman. Ojjen and Mimtalakat own 75 percent of the company's shares between them. The major cause of the rift is believed to be a $2.08 billion bid proposed by an unidentified consortium of Chinese investors.
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Dennis is believed to have supported the bid while it has been opposed by other shareholders. According to Sky News, Dennis had filed a case to secure an injunction from High Court against being sidelined until his term is over. The CEO's term is scheduled to expire in mid-January.
Bernie Ecclestone, Formula One boss, said Dennis might have already lost the battle. "There was a court case yesterday where he wanted to overturn what had happened and he lost the case unfortunately which is a pity because we don't want to lose Ron," Ecclestone said.
Ecclestone stated that losing the case means that Dennis is effectively already out. He also added that Dennis may file an appeal against the decision and may ultimately win the appeal. However, F1 team's racing director Eric Boullier stated, "As far as we are concerned Ron Dennis is still the chairman and the group's CEO today. That's it."
Dennis has been with the company for nearly 35 years.
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(Photo : DavidMcNew/GettyImages) The EU recently decided to impose temporary anti-dumping actions on seamless steel pipes from China.
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China has expressed concerns over the European Union's protectionist stance against its steel products. The recent overcapacity in the steel sector has caused a rift between China and the European Union (EU). China is the biggest producer of construction material in the world.
The EU recently decided to impose temporary anti-dumping actions against seamless steel pipes from China. The higher tariffs on Chinese steel may cause serious damage to the international trade. These tariffs may also threaten China's steel manufacturing industry.
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China commerce ministry stated on its website that "The Chinese side has expressed great concerns and worries about the EU's trade protectionist tendency over steel." It further said that the country is looking to boost ties with the EU through communication.
The newly imposed tariff against Chinese seamless steel pipes will be effective for six months. China has expressed hope that EU will adhere to relevant rulings made by the World Trade Organization. The EU used "analogue country" method to impose the duty. The Chinese ministry claimed that this method is unfair and unreasonable.
The "analogue country" method uses the price data collected from a third country for the purpose of calculating the value of products from a non-market economy country. The new action against Chinese steel has been opposed by many countries such as the Netherlands and Sweden.
China furthered its case against the imposition of high duties on its steel products by stating that the European steel industry is suffering due to slacking economic growth. It claims that Chinese imports are not the cause of the European industry's problems.
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TagsEuropean Union, china, steel
(Photo : Getty Images) The Toyota logo is displayed on the exterior of City Toyota May 11, 2010 in Daly City, California.
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Japanese automaker Toyota recently agreed to pay more than $3.4 billion in order to settle a federal class action suit brought by owners of pickup trucks and SUVs in the United States. The plaintiffs said that frames of affected cars have the tendency to pick up rust.
The proposed settlement agreement will cover nearly 1.5 million Tacoma compact pickups, Sequoia SVUs, and Tundra full-size pickups. Court papers revealed that these models received inadequate rust protection, which could lead to corrosion and end up jeopardizing the structural integrity of the cars.
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In supporting court papers, Toyota will be paying an estimated value of $3.375 billion in order to replace the compromised frames of affected trucks, according to BBC News. This includes $15,000 for each frame and inspection costs of about $90 million at $60 per vehicle.
In a statement acquired by Reuters, Toyota said, "We want our customers to have a great ownership experience, so we are pleased to resolve this litigation in a way that benefits them and demonstrates that we stand behind the quality and reliability of our vehicles."
The settlement agreement was reached on Oct. 31. It will cover Toyota Tacoma trucks with model years from 2005 to 2010, Toyota Sequoia models from 2005 to 2008, and Toyota Tundra between 2007 and 2008 model years.
Toyota also agreed to pay attorneys' fees amounting to $9.75 million, $150,000 in costs and expenses, and $2,500 to each of the eight named class representatives and cost of advertising.
Toyota is yet to announce when the company plans to initiate the recall in order to fix the affected vehicles.
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TagsToyota, toyota lawsuit, class action lawsuit, toyota case, toyota class action lawsuit, Toyota truck rust lawsuit
(Photo : Getty Images) A Blackberry cell phone is seen on Nov. 4, 2013 in Miami, Florida.
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BlackBerry chief executive officer John Chen confirmed in a recent interview that the smartphone company is working on a new product that will sport a physical keyboard, a common feature of the company's past devices.
Chen confirmed that the physical keyboard will feature the ubiquitous QWERTY keys. However, he did not provide any details about the upcoming device, although rumors claim that the smartphone will feature a classic BlackBerry design.
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According to GSM Arena, the smartphone has an internal codename Mercury and is expected to sport a 4.5-inch Full HD touchscreen display with a 3:2 aspect ratio. Powering the device is a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset with an octa-core processor clocked at 2GHz. The phone is also rumored to have 3GB of memory and 23GB of storage space.
On the camera aspect, the phone will have an 18-megapixel rear facing main camera and an 8-megapxiel front facing camera for selfie shots and video calling, according to Express. The phone will have a 3400 mAh battery pack, and since it has a Qualcomm chipset, it will most likely support the company's fast charging technology. The phone is expected to run on Android 7.0 Nougat right out of the box.
BlackBerry's last two flagship devices, the DTEK50 and the DTEK60, were made by TCL. So some believe that the new smartphone will be created by a third-party manufacturer as well.
BlackBerry announced a new business model in September where instead of handling the manufacturing side of business, it will hand it over to a third-party manufacturer by licensing its brand and software.
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(Photo : Getty Images) Economists have predicted that should President-elect Donald Trump make good his promise to slap a high tariff on China imports, several countries would likely be affected
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If US President-elect Donald Trump fulfills his campaign promise to slap a 45% tariff on importation of China-made goods, the move would most likely hurt Japan, South Korea, and several other nations, which have become increasingly dependent on China for top export destination over the years.
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During his campaign speeches, Trump promised to impose a 45% trade tariff on all imports from China if it does not start changing its trade practices such as subsidizing the steel industry and withdrawing from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).
TPP is a 12-nation free trade agreement that covers mostly the US main Asian allies. The accord has effectively expired last Friday, and the Obama administration said there was nothing it could do to revive it.
Growth spurt
For the past 15 years, China has experienced a growth spurt that saw the country become a top export destination for many countries. During these years, China has overtaken the United States as the world's biggest market for manufacturers and exporters like South Korea, Japan, and Brazil.
Economists said these countries would suffer a domino effect if China suffers a slowdown due to the high tariff. If China slows down, the rest of the exporting countries would also slow down since China would be purchasing less from these nations.
Trade actions
Trump's future trade actions against China would definitely raise the stakes for other nations, which rely heavily on Chinese trade to prop up their economies.
According to the International Monetary Fund, the Chinese economy has performed well in the last 15 years, accounting for a third of the world's growth.
Analysts said that although China's imports have declined in the past years, it still managed to purchase a large percentage of the world's exports last year.
"For many countries around the world, China is now the biggest trading partner, so this kind of tit-for-tat trade protectionism with China will dampen the atmosphere for the international trading community," Yorizumi Watanabe, a trade expert and professor at Japan's Keio University, said.
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TagsPresident-elect Donald Trump, China tariff, TPP, South Korea, Japan, trade actions
Raise funds for the APS fine arts department via a silent and live auction featuring local student artists' works.
A is for Art is the APS Education Foundation's evening event focused on raising funds for fine arts.
This year's gala event will be held on Saturday, November 19, 2016 at the Sandia Resort & Casino.
This unique event offers a silent and live auction featuring student artists from Albuquerque Public Schools. Students and their teachers provide guests with an insider view of their fine arts classes and discuss why fine arts is such an important part of public education. This year we ask our students and teachers, "Why invest in art education? What is art?"
Pieces up for bid include watercolors, ceramics, jewelry, mixed media, paintings, photography and more - all unique and hand crafted. Students receive a 40% commission when their piece is sold, becoming professional artists at this event. Proceeds also benefit the APS Fine Arts Department and the APS Education Foundation.
Auction Preview
Sponsorship Brochure
For more information about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Development Manager Lawren McConnell at (505) 855-5273 or Lawren.McConnell@aps.edu.
Wyomings Shoshone River below Willwood Diversion Dam is still so roiled with thick silt that its impossible to know if any fish or aquatic life has survived the three-weeklong spill.
Until things clear up were in a holding pattern, said Jason Burckhardt, a fisheries biologist with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department in Cody. With turbidity that high, we cant see into the water to sample fish.
The irrigation dam built by the Bureau of Reclamation in 1924 is located between Cody and Powell, Wyo., just off Highway 14. In mid-October water behind the dam was released to make repairs on the aged structure. As a result, a torrent of silty water was released downstream, suffocating what had been a blue-ribbon stretch of trout fishing water under 3 to 12 inches of mud.
There are a lot of people mad about that, said Tim French, Park County Commission chairman.
It is a big deal, said county commissioner Loren Grosskopf. Its a terrible loss, not just to fishermen but everybody.
Meeting
To provide residents with information, the commission has scheduled a meeting on Tuesday night at 5:30 at the Park County Fairgrounds Events Center in Powell.
Grosskopf said representatives from state and federal agencies have been invited, along with the public, to discuss the rivers dire situation, to provide answers and possibly find a solution.
We tried to invite everyone who knew anything about it or had an opinion, Grosskopf said.
Meanwhile, Burckhardt said the river is still flowing in excess of 1,000 NTUs, a measure of turbidity. For comparison, the river above the dam is between 6 and 19 NTUs, he said. In an off-color river with only a foot of visibility, often seen after a rainstorm, water is about 20 NTUs.
The longer we have that pool elevation low, the more sediment is going down and the harder it will be to recover that habitat, Burckhardt said.
Silt buildup
Willwood Diversion Dam backs up water for a small irrigation district of about 80 users to water 12,000 acres in the Bighorn Basin. The water behind the dam was lowered this fall to upgrade the aging structure.
By lowering the water behind the dam the Shoshone River cut through decades of built-up silt, spewing the thick, muddy mixture into the river below. Burckhardt said the entire river below the dam, a section extending about 50 miles to Bighorn Reservoir, has been damaged. How badly has yet to be determined.
I fish and duck hunt that area, Grosskopf said. Its really unfortunate whats happened.
The aggravating thing for me is that everyone is pointing their fingers at the Willwood Irrigation District, said Todd Singbeil, the irrigation districts manager.
People are throwing their trash down at us and were having to deal with it.
BLM land
Singbeil said the dam backs up silt that drains largely from the Bureau of Land Managements McCullough Peaks, about 23,000 acres of erosive badlands recommended for wilderness designation located about 10 miles east of Cody. He estimated that 50,000 cubic yards of silt has piled up behind the dam enough dirt to cover 31 acres in a foot of soil.
We see no reason to get rid of the silt if its going to continue to build up, Singbeil said.
Still, the district has looked into the cost of removal. For about $2 million the silt could be excavated and trucked away, Singbeil said. But that expense is far beyond the means of the small irrigation district, which has an annual income of only $360,000.
Im not going to let this thing die, so the next generation doesnt have to worry about it, Singbeil said.
But removing the dirt doesnt address the problem of silting behind the dam, he added. Thats only a short-term fix.
Permit
He said the irrigation district would also like to see its operating criteria changed to allow more sediment to flow downstream. Right now the dam is supposed to release water with only 10 NTUs of turbidity, what he called drinking water tolerance.
Theres no possible way to operate a dam or river that way, Singbeil said.
Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality officials could not be reached for comment on the sediment spill.
Burckhardt said the longer that Willwood Dam keeps releasing silt-laden water the longer that sediment is choking the rivers aquatic life downstream.
If something cant happen this winter, Id like them to raise the pool to stem the damage, to stop the amount of sediment going downstream, Burckhardt said.
Singbeil said work on the dam should be completed by the end of the week, allowing the water level to be raised. That would buy agencies and the public time to try and find a solution to the siltation problem.
Ive been out there a couple of times looking at it, Grosskopf said. Weve got to deal with whats already happened and what could happen if the gates are opened again.
(Photo : Getty Images) ZTEs community poll is still open and users can share their views on why they choose stock Android than customizations.
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ZTE USA plans to launch stock Android devices, filling in the gap that Google left when it announced the abandonment of its Nexus phones.
In September, the North American subsidiary of ZTE unveiled a community poll that asked users if they will choose to use Android devices that offered a stock or similar to stock experience, which is usually found in Nexus models, according to Ubergizmo. A majority of the users agreed to have a stock experience. ZTE also asked why users prefer to use untainted Android.
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ZTEs poll offered participants a few options why they would choose Android, and it included the following:
Quicker updates
Longer support
Cleaner user interface and skin
Better overall performance
Less bloatware
Lower defects
Greater dev support for custom ROMs
With that community poll results, ZTE can now rekindle the Nexus feel and experience upon launching Stock Android smartphones. ZTE has been welcoming customer feedback these days, so it is possible that the company will launch smartphones that offer an almost Nexus-like experience.
ZTEs community poll is still open, and users can share their views on why they choose stock Android than customizations, The Next Web reported. However, the company has not confirmed that it is working the stock Android phone at this point in time.
The results of the community poll will be presented to the companys R&D team to find out if the company should create the stock Android device. The company also plan to give a reward to the participants with the most thoughtful comments.
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TagsZTE, Google, Nexus, Google Nexus, ZTE Axon 7, Stock Android phone, Stock Android, Stock Android experience, ZTE Poll
(Photo : US Army) U.S. Special Forces
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Republican Party allies of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump are doubling down on Trump's campaign promise to enforce "Peace through Strength" by massively strengthening the United States Armed Forces, while affirming his commitment to the U.S.' Asian alliances as bedrocks of stability against Chinese aggression.
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The hawkish Trump has never been known for his patience with China, which he blasted for stealing American jobs while enriching itself at America's expense.
Republicans said Trump will be unwavering as he pursues a strategy of "Peace through Strength," created by former Republican and U.S. President Ronald Reagan and abandoned under Barack Obama who took office in 2008.
Mike Wynne, former Air Force Secretary from 2005-2008 under President George Bush, noted the U.S. Navy has shrunk to its smallest size since World War I.
The U.S. Army is the smallest it has been since before World War II. The U.S. Air Force is the smallest in its history, and its aircraft are the oldest.
Wynne also alleges readiness levels across the services are the worst in a generation, with pilots facing significantly reduced cockpit time and deferring critical maintenance. Navy ships and crews are deploying as long as 10 months, while Army units are deferring critical training before deployments.
In Trump's favor is the real possibility he can repeal defense sequestration that cut defense spending by 10% in 2013 and would have sliced it by 8.5% in 2021.
Wynne said Trump will rebuild the Navy, now at 274 ships. Trump's goal is 350 ships, a fleet in line with the up to 346 ships endorsed by the bipartisan National Defense Panel.
The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) is expected to have 415 warships and nearly 100 submarines by 2030. Trump's naval program will reassure U.S. allies the United States remains committed in the long-term to its traditional role as guarantor of the liberal order in Asia, said Wynne.
Wynne said there is no question of Trump's commitment to America's Asian alliances as bedrocks of stability in the region.
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Tagsdonald trump, Republican Party, United States Armed Forces, Peace through Strength, ronald reagan, Mike Wynne
(Photo : getty images.) China's famous polar bear has been temporarily shifted from Grandview Mall Aquarium in Guangzhou. The bear will been taken to to her original home, Ocean Park.
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A three-year-old female polar bear, which gained worldwide fame as world's saddest bear, has been moved from the Grandview Mall Aquarium in Guangzhou and sent to his original home in Ocean Park.
Officials of the Grandview Mall cited 'renovation work' as the reason for the relocation. Pizza - the official name of the bear - would return once the renovation work is completed.
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The mall posted on Chinese social media that it would "await Pizza's return."
Reports say the renovation is being done to make aquarium more habitable for Pizza. The move is apparently in response to increasing protest by animal right activists, who claim that aquarium's artificial ambiance is making pizza increasingly weak.
However, Peter Li, China policy specialist at Humane Society International expressed reservation over the move. "No amount of renovation could ever make a shopping mall a suitable place for this animal, and to send him back would be cruel and heartless," he said
Li claimed that the polar bear was suddenly shifted due to her deteriorating health and warned that her health would soon deteriorate to the extent that it would become difficult to display her to the public.
However, he expressed joy that Pizza would at last get to enjoy the bliss of pure nature at his original habitat in Ocean Park.
The female polar bear created a global stir in July after a leading animal group based in Hong Kong posted a video on its official website showing Pizza lying sadly in the mall aquarium. Many leading publications including 'Time' magazine and 'The Telegraph' unanimously described Pizza as the 'world's saddest bear. '
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TagsPolar Bear China, polar bear, World's Saddest Polar Bear, Pizza China, china
What does the future of the Asian American church look like?
Some 200 Asian American ministry leaders gathered in Southern California to learn and dialogue on the question during the third annual Asian American Ministry Conference. The event, hosted by Biola University's Talbot School of Theology, had previously focused on themes such as mentorship and leadership. This year, the conference focused on the theme of envisioning the future of the Asian American church.
"What does the future hold for the Asian American church? I believe that there is a bright future ahead as we look at all of the talent, resources, and people involved in building towards the future," said Dr. Benjamin Shin, the director of the Asian American Doctor of Ministry cohort at Talbot, and one of the organizers of the conference. "This conference hopes to provide a small glimpse of that future today."
(Photo : Christianity Daily)
The Asian American Ministry Conference which took place on November 5, 2016 featured a time to pray for pastors and ministry leaders.
Among the diverse range of topics discussed during the conference, which took place from 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturday, was the way that Asian Americans could serve to be witnesses for the gospel in this generation. Dr. Peter Cha, professor at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School who spoke during the morning and evening plenary sessions of the conference, emphasized the need to "develop our authentic witness" in the modern day, as non-Christians express increasingly disillusioned sentiments toward the Christian community.
Being a "witness" is not only about sharing the gospel in distant countries, but also doing so in America, within the societies in which we live, he explained.
One of those ways to develop authentic witness as Asian Americans is to express the Asian American Christian voice, Cha said. Despite the diverse population of Christians in the U.S., Cha noted that there still exists a tendency for some to think of Christianity as 'white man's religion,' and to think of 'white people' when thinking of the church in America.
"I think it will be our homework to figure out, what voice do we bring to the table?" said Cha. "I hope younger generation pastors will collaborate to form that voice."
Cha also mentioned the potential role that Asian Americans have in racial reconciliation. In the aftermath of the L.A. Riots, Cha said that many Korean Americans responded and collaborated with members of the African American community.
Today, Asian Americans still can serve to be a bridge among the different ethnic groups, he said.
"This racial distrust will linger," Cha said, encouraging those at the conference to focus on the gospel in the process of racial reconciliation. "The gospel is a more profound way than tolerance to racial reconciliation."
Cha also alluded to the idea that though some Asian Americans may have a passion to be more involved in the greater community, Asian American churches may not be giving enough room for ministers and members to be active in those arenas. Cha said that among 18,000 attendees to the Urbana Conference in 2015, about 6,000 of them were Asian Americans, which showed "a great deal of interest and passion in our community to make an impact with the gospel."
"Are local churches presenting the opportunities for them to do so?" he added.
"I hope that we will be able to say that all the gifts that he gave us - including our Asian American identity - we did not bury it in the ground, but stewarded it faithfully for his glory and kingdom," Cha said.
Meanwhile, the conference also featured three sessions of seminars on about a dozen topics on specific ministries, including church planting, college ministry, children's ministry, global missions, worship, organizing special events, conflict resolution across generations, family ministry, and multi-ethnic church.
Seventeen Asian American leaders in those respective areas were featured as speakers, including John M. Kim, church planter and current pastor of Lighthouse Bible Church Los Angeles; Steve Bang Lee, college and teaching ministries director at Living Hope Community Church; Margaret Yu, national executive director of Epic Movement; Gloria S. Lee from Menlo Church; and Angela Yee, director of mission and ministry at Saddleback Church, Irvine South campus; among others.
The Asian American Ministry Conference is set to take place for the fourth time next year on November 4.
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A Fiberglass Structures employee was sentenced Monday for starting a fire that caused around $6 million in damage to one of the company's buildings.
Kristopher Michael Harasymczuk, 31, was given a six-year deferred sentence for a charge of negligent arson after causing a fire in the Laurel building. Harasymczuk must complete 30 days of work for the Yellowstone County Sheriff's labor detail. He must also pay $100 to Fiberglass Solutions during every month of his six year deferred sentence.
Company president Robert Harris attended Harazymczuk's sentencing hearing, but said only he would be watching the situation closely.
Harazymczuk had pleaded no contest to the charge after co-workers said he flicked a lighter at the factory while they cleaned themselves with an acetone solution.
The fire began at about noon on Feb. 5, 2015 when one of Harazymczuk's coworkers at the factory caught fire, causing a massive blaze. The estimated monetary damage of the fire was five to seven million dollars.
Harazymczuk restitution over the six years would total about $7,000.
Atheist group loses hometown radio station to 24-hour Christmas music 14 November, 2016 by Gregory Tomlin , |
MADISON, Wisconsin (Christian Examiner) The Freedom from Religion Foundation's "Freethought Radio" program is getting the boot from its hometown radio station, the Mic 92.1 FM.
The reason? Ironically, the station that once hosted "Progressive Talk" programs in Madison, Wisconsin, is switching to a 24-hour Christmas music format the holiday celebrating the birth of the baby Jesus, whom the atheist group has repeatedly mocked in its "winter" displays.
The Freedom from Religion Foundation (FFRF) is headed by the married and unbelieving duo Dan Barker and Annie Laurie Gaylor, who also host the organization's radio program. They issued a press release calling the move a "bizarre shift" in programing and said they had been "unceremoniously yanked off the air locally."
The Mic is not alone. Liberal talk on commercial radio has long failed to garner the audience and ad dollars conservative talk has although you'd think it would have had a better shot in Madison.
"We opened up the Wisconsin State Journal the morning after the election to read the remarkable announcement that progressive talk had been banished forthwith on 92.1 FM and replaced with around-the-clock Christmas music!" Gaylor said. "It's not exactly the appropriate vehicle for Freethought Radio now."
The radio station is, however, a means for making money through advertising and, according to the local media, liberal activist programming is a burden rather than a blessing. It turns out atheist programming is something few find enjoyable.
"In the most recent Nielsen ratings, it (the radio station) had been drawing a 2.1 share, or less than half that drawn by WIBA-AM, home to (Vicki) McKenna, Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity," the Wisconsin State Journal's Chris Rickert reported.
"The Mic is not alone. Liberal talk on commercial radio has long failed to garner the audience and ad dollars conservative talk has although you'd think it would have had a better shot in Madison."
There are other reasons too, as several of the local radio personalities from other stations pointed out. For one, there are "liberal listeners" and "liberal activists listeners." Liberal listeners, of which there are many, listen to National Public Radio (NPR).
Liberal activists listen to "progressive talk," and there just aren't enough activists to make the shows profitable.
But there's also the quality of the programming.
According the newspaper, Derrell Connor, who hosts programs in Madison and Milwaukee, and is more "middle-of-the-road" in his approach, and Dave Black, general manager of UW-Madison's student radio, said liberal radio hosts may not be as good as their conservative counterparts.
"Say what you want about Rush (Limbaugh)," Connor said. "Rush is good at what he does."
Black said hosts on the hard left just have difficulties holding listeners because they are less effective and weaving news and commentary together.
For example, in 2004 liberal talk hit the airwaves in the form of Air America. With hosts like now Wisconsin Sen. Al Franken and MSNBC's Rachel Maddow, the network claimed to be a counterbalance to Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity and other conservative hosts. It was also home to Freethought Radio.
The network was a money pit and was pronounced dead six years later.
Freethought Radio's removal from the air in Madison doesn't mean it is off the air everywhere. FFRF claims the program will still broadcast on a Janesville, Wisconsin, station as well as on stations in Michigan, Missouri, New York, New Hampshire, Vermont, Texas and in Alberta, Canada.
"We're looking at this as an opportunity rather than a disruption," Dan Barker, co-president of FFRF and a former minister, said. "Stay tuned."
Trump says he wants to win Israeli-Palestinian peace for 'humanity's sake' 14 November, 2016 by Gregory Tomlin , |
WASHINGTON (Christian Examiner) President-elect Donald Trump has said he believes he can accomplish what no president before him has establishing a peace treaty between the Palestinians and Israelis.
"As a deal maker, I'd like to do ... the deal that can't be made, and do it for humanity's sake," Trump told the Wall Street Journal during an exclusive interview.
The comment is only the latest in a long line of discourses on Israel and peace between the two parties discourses that have often been inconsistent.
In one instance, Trump claimed he would remain "neutral" in the negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians because to take sides would kill any potential deal before it came to fruition. When called out by Texas Sen. Ted Cruz during the primary, Trump clarified the comment, calling himself "totally pro-Israel."
It's not up the United Nations to impose a solution. The parties must negotiate a resolution themselves. The United States can be useful as a facilitator of negotiations, but no one should be telling Israel it must abide by some agreement made by others thousands of miles away that don't even really know what's happening.
Trump also took a hard-right stance when speaking to the American-Israel Public Affairs Committee. As Christian Examiner reported, Trump claimed he would never make a deal that did not benefit Israel. He also said any deal between the two sides could not be imposed by a third party, such as the United Nations. Otherwise, Palestinian terror would be rewarded.
"It's not up the United Nations to impose a solution. The parties must negotiate a resolution themselves. The United States can be useful as a facilitator of negotiations, but no one should be telling Israel it must abide by some agreement made by others thousands of miles away that don't even really know what's happening," Trump said at AIPAC in March.
Trump campaigned on his negotiating skills and is the author of the bestselling book, The Art of the Deal. He has repeatedly said he will be able to get the Israelis and Palestinians to come to the table and obtain an agreement. It appears as if his public relations offensive to entice Israel has already begun.
Just prior to Friday's interview in the Wall Street Journal, Trump published a message in Israel Hayom, describing Israel as "a beacon of hope to countless people."
"Israel and America share so many of the same values, such as freedom of speech, freedom of worship and the importance of creating opportunities for all citizens to pursue their dreams," Trump said in the message published by the paper.
"Israel is the one true democracy and defender of human rights in the Middle East and a beacon of hope to countless people."
He then touted the role his administration would have in achieving a "just, lasting peace" in the region.
For that reason, Politico has reported, the Trump transition team is asking President Barack Obama's administration to maintain a hands-off approach to diplomatic foreign policy in the last days of his presidency.
According to the report, an unnamed Trump "national security advisor" said President Obama should not "go seeking new adventures or pushing through policies that certainly don't match Trump's positions." The message was clear don't bind the hands of the successor.
Recently, critics of the president's foreign policy have expressed fears that Obama would abandon America's pro-Israel position in favor of seeking an imposed peace through the UN. But, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu again reiterated Sunday that he expects the U.S. to maintain its commitment to the idea of direct negotiations between the Palestinians and Israelis.
Some Israelis have already taken Trump's election as a signal that the dream of Palestinian statehood has ended, as evidenced by the president-elect's soft stance on Israeli settlements.
According to the Washington Post, the co-chair of the Trump campaign's Israel Advisory Committee told Israeli Army Radio last week that Trump did not believe settlement activity should be condemned because it is "not an obstacle for peace."
The Obama administration has frequently criticized the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
Two boys who converted to Christianity from Islam in Uganda have been forced to flee for their lives due to persecution.
According to ChristianToday.com, the two boys, aged 16 and 17, were driven out even by their own family members.
The boys found refuge in the home of a Christian man, but that man ended up having to flee with them after Muslim extremists attacked and destroyed his home and drove him out.
"I started receiving threatening messages in my phone accusing me of converting the boys to Christianity, as well as housing them in my house without the parents' permission, but I did not take it very seriously," the man who gave the boys shelter told Morning Star News.
Apostasy against Islam is a serious crime in Uganda and is punishable by death.
Although Uganda is not on Open Doors 2016 World Watch List of the top 50 countries where Christian persecution is worst, it is reportedly becoming more dangerous for those who hold to Christian faith.
A hardline Muslim sect called the tabliqs are growing in power in Uganda, and Christian persecution ministries are concerned about the effect they will have on the Christian church in the country.
Christian ministry Release International asked for prayer for the two boys and local Christians who have risked their lives to help them.
Photo courtesy: Thinkstockphotos.com
Publication date: November 14, 2016
Okaystop me if youve heard this story before: A Christian couple opens a bakery where, until recently, the only thing theyre known for was the quality of their baked goods. Until one day a gay client demands that they perform a service that would violate their conscience.
After the couple refuses, the would-be customer files a complaint against the bakers. The case winds up in the courts, where the Christian couple loses.
Its an all-too-familiar story, but this one has a few surprising twists.
Firstwhere it took place: the United Kingdom, specifically, Northern Ireland.
Daniel and Amy McArthur run a bakery in Belfast called Ashers. In May, 2014, a representative of a group called QueerSpace, which is, as the name suggests, an LGBT advocacy group in Northern Ireland, placed an order for a cake at Ashers.
If the cake had simply been, say, a red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting, the story would have ended there. Ashers would have baked the cake and that would have been that.
But, as you probably guessed, it wasnt that simple. The would-be customer wanted the McArthurs to put a picture of Bert and Ernie from Sesame Street, along with the words Support Gay Marriage on the top.
After the McArthurs declined to bake the cake, the would-be customer filed suit against them.
After losing in the lower court and being fined the equivalent of $600, they appealed to Northern Irelands Supreme Court, which upheld the legal conclusions of the lower court.
Writing for the court, the Chief Justice rejected the bakerys contention that fulfilling the request was tantamount to approving the message. The fact, he wrote, that a baker provides a cake for a particular team or portrays witches on a Halloween cake does not indicate any support for either.
Going one step further, he continued In the present case the appellants might elect not to provide a service that involves any religious or political message. What they may not do is provide a service that only reflects their own political or religious message in relation to sexual orientation.
Wow! In other words, when freedom of speech and conscience collides with issues concerning sexual orientation, freedom of speech and conscience must give way.
This prompted the other twist: The British media came to the defense of the Christian bakers. The center-right Telegraph asked How have we got to the point where a law-abiding, God-fearing family running a bakery in Northern Ireland can find themselves in a lengthy court battle over a refusal to ice a political message on to a 39 sponge cake?, adding Why is the law not protecting the rights of this Christian couple?
And meanwhile from the left, the Guardian said that the decision cannot be welcomed by anyone who cares about free speech. While it argued against conscience-driven blanket exemption to discrimination laws, it added that is not the only way in which this question can be examined.
According to the Guardian, the McArthurs were being asked to make a statement in favour of gay marriage with which they profoundly disagreed. And here they ought to have had the right to disagree. In the Guardians opinion, compelling someone to expresseven in sugar pastean opinion they rejected with all their hearts is wrong.
So while the McArthurs may have lost in the courts of law, they seem to be winning in the court of public opinion. And thats a good sign--given that many cultural trends that start across the pond wind up on these shores. Who knows, perhaps someday soon the British presss concern for freedom of religion and freedom of speech might catch on with our own media.
BreakPoint is a Christian worldview ministry that seeks to build and resource a movement of Christians committed to living and defending Christian worldview in all areas of life. Begun by Chuck Colson in 1991 as a daily radio broadcast, BreakPoint provides a Christian perspective on todays news and trends via radio, interactive media, and print. Today BreakPoint commentaries, co-hosted by Eric Metaxas and John Stonestreet, air daily on more than 1,200 outlets with an estimated weekly listening audience of eight million people. Feel free to contact us at BreakPoint.org where you can read and search answers to common questions.
John Stonestreet, the host of The Point, a daily national radio program, provides thought-provoking commentaries on current events and life issues from a biblical worldview. John holds degrees from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (IL) and Bryan College (TN), and is the co-author of Making Sense of Your World: A Biblical Worldview.
Publication date: November 14, 2016
In the lightning strike of Donald Trumps presidential victory, the storms of local elections quietly rumbled in the background. State elections brought the passage of conservative ballot measures in red states and liberal measures in blue states. But Republican dominance crafted election nights narrative.
Republicans now control all of the state legislatures in the South after winning the Kentucky House from Democrats for the first time since 1921, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL).
Trumps victory had some level of coattail effect at the state level, as analysts predicted. Republicans maintained their dominance of state legislatures, though some decisive races remain too close to calllike in the New York Senate. One of the few glimmers for Democrats: They took both chambers of the Nevada legislature from Republicans. But in several other states, Republicans ousted Democratic governors, giving the GOP executive control of 33 states, the most since 1922. North Carolinas hotly contested governorship is still up in the air.
In short, Republicans bested expectations, wrote NCSLs analyst Dan Diorio. Having already reached the peak of control in party history, Republicans will maintain a similar level of control, in a year when many expected Democrats to net seats and chambers.
Less noticeable state posts could have national impact. Missouris new attorney general is Josh Hawley, a former clerk to Chief Justice John Roberts and an evangelical. In his new role, Hawley will be defending the state in a major religious liberty case before the Supreme Court, Trinity Lutheran v. Pauley. With an attorney general sympathetic to the churchs case, its future remains uncertain. The Supreme Court hasnt scheduled arguments for the case yet, and The Cato Institutes Ilya Shapiro thinks the dispute will be settled.
On ballot measures, seven states expanded the legality of marijuana. California, Nevada, and Massachusetts legalized marijuana for recreational use, while Florida, Arkansas, Montana, and North Dakota legalized it for medicinal use. Several states increased gun restrictions like background checks, while others reestablished the death penalty. Washington, Arizona, Colorado, and Maine voted to increase the minimum wage. Several states also instituted criminal justice reforms. And in one of the most significant voter decisions, Colorado legalized assisted suicide.
Courtesy: WORLD News Service
Photo courtesy: Thinkstockphotos.com
Publication date: November 14, 2016
An Irish Christian bakery that was fined for refusing to bake a cake with engraved message supporting gay marriage has decided to appeal their case in the UK Supreme Court and European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg.
A county court had initially ruled that they had discriminated against their customer in 2014 by declining a request to bake a cake with a picture of Sesame Street's Bert and Ernie along with a message 'Support Gay Marriage' and a logo of gay rights group QueerSpace. They were fined 500 in 2015 by the court.
The owners of Ashers Baking Co. challenged the decision in Northern Ireland's Court of Appeals which upheld the lower court's decision.
Now the bakers want to take the case to UK's highest court, but according to their lawyers they may be barred from doing so. If they are not able to appeal to the Supreme Court in London, they will try to further their case in European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg. The matter will reach ECHR only on the condition that it is refused by the Supreme Court of UK.
"Under the complex rules regarding appeals in civil cases, such as the Ashers case, the Court of Appeal decision seems to be final, according to the terms of the Judicature Act 1978," said Simon Calvert, spokesman for the Christian Institute who are supporting Ashers. But he added that because of the broad public implications of the case, their lawyers have urged the Court of Appeals to decide if the appeal could be sent to the Supreme Court.
"In view of the complexity of these issues, however, and the wider public importance which this case clearly has, and in order to make clear that the appellants (Ashers) have exhausted their domestic remedies... we respectfully invite the Court of Appeal to consider giving a short ruling on the question of whether appeal to the UK Supreme Court is available in this case," said the letter written by Ashers' lawyers cited in Belfast Telegraph.
Ashers have six branches with over 80 employees, and deliver cakes across the UK and Ireland.
Donald Trump has named Reince Priebus, Chairman of the Republican National Committee, as the next White House chief of staff, and Breitbart News CEO Stephen Bannon as the "Chief Strategist and Senior Counselor to the President."
"I am thrilled to have my very successful team continue with me in leading our country," said Trump.
"Steve and Reince are highly qualified leaders who worked well together on our campaign and led us to a historic victory. Now I will have them both with me in the White House as we work to make America great again."
Priebus is serving his third term at RNC, and is seen as an insider who manages the affairs of the party expertly.
"It is truly an honor to join President-elect Trump in the White House as his Chief of Staff," Priebus said in a statement.
"I am very grateful to the President-elect for this opportunity to serve him and this nation as we work to create an economy that works for everyone, secure our borders, repeal and replace Obamacare and destroy radical Islamic terrorism," he added.
Many of the lawmakers who had opposed Trump during the campaign congratulated him for selecting Priebus.
"Congrats to @realDonaldTrump for outstanding choice of @Reince to be Chief of Staff. This shows me he is serious about governing," Senator Lindsey Graham said on Twitter.
Priebus represents the "establishment," while Bannon is generally seen as being hostile to "establishment" for his "alt right" views.
In October, an article was published in Breitbart which claimed that House Speaker Paul Ryan sided with Hillary Clinton because both of them were "progressives" and held "globalist worldview."
Ryan told CNN that he did not know Bannon personally, and was not worried about Bannon's apparent opposition of him.
"I don't know Steve Bannon, so I have no concerns. I trust Donald's judgment," said Ryan.
Media reports say that the selection of Priebus might upset those among the grassroots. Bannon on the other hand, was instrumental in promoting Trump's grassroots support.
Bannon was named CEO of Trump's campaign about three months ago, and had stepped down from his role of chief executive of the conservative newspaper to focus full time on the campaign of the president-elect.
I had the privilege or reading a pre-release version of "God Shines Forth: How the Nature of God Shapes and Drives the Mission of the Church." Here are 20 quotes from the book, which you should pick up.
Olivet Nazarene University and America's Christian Credit Union Sign Affiliation Agreement
Contact: Nikole Pearce, 626-208-5411
MEDIA ADVISORY, Nov. 14, 2016 / Christian Newswire / -- Olivet Nazarene University (ONU) announced today a signed affiliation agreement between the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies (SGCS) and America's Christian Credit Union (ACCU). The agreement is an exclusive education partnership between Olivet and ACCU.
The agreement will provide all ACCU staff, members and spouses a 20 percent tuition discount on SGCS programming. Olivet has already enrolled the first ACCU student who began pursuing her online bachelor of business administration in September.
"At America's Christian Credit Union we strive to Reach, Serve and Teach our members and staff through Biblical principles," said Mendell Thompson, President/CEO of ACCU. "Our goal is not to be just a financial institution for our members but in reality, to be a life transforming organization for those we serve. This partnership with Olivet allows us to achieve that mission."
ACCU has 90 employees and serves 86,000 members across the country with more than 5,000 branches and over 2,000 self-service locations.
"As one of the nation's top Christian universities that provides education with a Christian purpose, we are honored to partner with such a great organization in ACCU," said ONU vice-president of strategic expansion, Dr. Ryan Spittal. "Olivet is pleased to align our similar missions to help transform the lives of individuals across the country."
This partnership builds on Olivet's rigorous community outreach. SGCS has locations in Illinois, Indiana and Michigan, offering more than 30 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs that can be completed in either an onsite or fully online format. Partnered with more than 200 organizations across the United States, SGCS has more than 150 learning locations, including five regional centers. SGCS also has a presence in Hong Kong along with partnerships in China, the Czech Republic, South Africa, Dubai UAE and Israel.
Recently, ONU became a participant in the new Yellow Ribbon GI Enhancement Program, designed to improve financial aid for veterans participating in the new Post-9/11 GI Bill Program. Under the current bill, veterans' tuition is covered up to the equal amount of the highest in-state, public school, undergraduate tuition. ONU's Yellow Ribbon Program will cover additional tuition costs not covered by that bill. These funds -- up to $25,000 per student per year -- are available to traditional students as well as students within the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies, including the doctoral program.
Information on the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies is available at graduate.olivet.edu
About America's Christian Credit Union
Someday, one of Katie Meier's students might save your life.
They'll know whether to jam a tube up your nose or down your throat to help you breathe. They'll know how to give CPR and load you on to a backboard to avoid spinal damage.
They might be the first person who arrives at a car wreck, or at your own home, hopping out of a red light-flashing ambulance.
Meier teaches the new Emergency Medical Technician course at the Billings Career Center, a class that will put students on the doorstep of EMT certification. Students earn college credit for completing the class, which also meets state EMT certification requirements. They'll be well positioned to move into the workforce or pursue further medical training.
Senior Tendra Palin is taking the latter route. She plans to attend Rocky Mountain College and pursue a career as a physician assistant.
"My goal is to get certification, and I can work while going to college," she said.
Students practiced ventilation techniques with simulators on Thursday, measuring from the tip of the nose or mouth to the ear for the right size tube or oral airway device. The models help simulate resistance in airways; students had to twist and wiggle the tube, and practiced swiftly removing the oral device if a patient wakes up and starts gagging.
Like many medical professions, Montana has a statewide EMT shortage, especially in rural areas. While the Career Center program will likely give Billings a workforce boost, it's unclear if that will filter to other areas.
Simon Hanson said he plans to join the military and work as a combat medic.
I wasnt quite ready for the studying, he said, estimating that he typically spent an hour each night on the class. At first when we started, it was a lot of notes.
With students funneling in from three high schools, they dont always have the same academic experience. Some took more specialized classes, like the Career Centers biomedical courses or medical careers class. Others took biology or an anatomy course. Some spend their entire morning with Meier in her medical careers course.
I have kids from all backgrounds, Meier said.
Typically, EMTs perform CPR and artificial ventilations, administer oxygen, perform basic airway management and spinal immobilization, check vital signs and bandage and splint wounds and fractures. With a few exceptions, they don't perform procedures that break the skin. Paramedics have more training and can perform more complex medical procedures.
On Thursday, students were tested on what to do when assessing a patient's airway; based on the scenario Meier gave them, they had to demonstrate the correct way to open a nasal and oral airway and how to use suction to clear a patient's mouth of fluid. Students had to narrate each of their actions.
"If you didn't say it, you didn't do it," Meier told students. "You need to nail every single thing."
Someday, students might not just be working with a plastic simulator. At the end of the school year they will be able to take national certification tests in Billings and if they pass, they can move from the classroom to an ambulance.
"In real life I'm probably gonna be a little frightened," Palin said, talking about working with catastrophic injuries. "I know this sounds bad, but I think I'm gonna get used to that.
"Can we control ourselves, can we do our jobs? That's why we practice."
home World Christian bakers seek to appeal gay cake case to U.K. Supreme Court
The owners of Ashers bakery, who were found to have violated equality laws for refusing to bake a cake with a pro-gay marriage message, are planning to appeal their case to the highest court in the U.K.
The Court of Appeals in Belfast upheld the original ruling that the bakery discriminated against Gareth Lee, a member of LGBT advocacy group Queer Space, for refusing his order for a cake that had the slogan "Support Gay Marriage," the Evening Standard reported.
Ashers owners Daniel and Amy McArthur have asked permission from judges if they can challenge the ruling at the Supreme Court. However, the legal team supporting them believe that the appeal to the U.K.'s highest court may not be possible under legislation related to appeals in civil cases.
The lawyers have written to the appeal court judges requesting for a ruling to clarify the position.
"In view of the complexity of these issues... and the wider public importance which this case clearly has, and in order to make clear that the appellants (Ashers) have exhausted their domestic remedies... we respectfully invite the Court of Appeal to consider giving a short ruling on the question of whether appeal to the United Kingdom Supreme Court is available in this case," the letter stated.
Simon Calvert of the Christian Institute, which supported the McArthurs in their legal battle, is not optimistic about the possibility of an appeal.
"Under the complex rules regarding appeals in civil cases, such as the Ashers case, the Court of Appeal decision seems to be final, according to the terms of the Judicature Act 1978," said Calvert.
The couple is also thinking of taking the case to the European Court of Human Rights if the Supreme Court is ruled out as an option.
In the original ruling, the judge ruled that religious beliefs cannot dictate the law and ordered the bakers to pay damages of 500. In their appeal, the owners argued that they objected to the message the Lee wanted to put on the cake, not his sexuality.
The Court of Appeals judges rejected the argument in October and ruled that Ashers had directly discriminated Lee. Northern Ireland's Lord Chief Justice, Sir Declan Morgan, contended that baking the cake would not have equated to an endorsement of same-sex marriage.
The McArthurs thanked the churches and individuals who supported them in their legal battle. They stated that they "do not feel defeated or dismayed" despite losing their appeal in Belfast.
home World ISIS separates families by abducting newborn babies, virgin girls, says Catholic priest
A Catholic priest said that Islamic State fighters are separating families in areas under the control of the terrorist group by taking away their newborn babies and virgin girls. The jihadists kill the fathers and they force the young boys to plant bombs on the streets.
Fr. Patrick Desbois, a Paris-based priest who dedicated his life to researching the Holocaust and fighting anti-Semitism, helped genocide victims of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS).
Desbois said in an interview with The Christian Post that ISIS has killed Shia Muslims and Christians in large numbers, adding that the terror group is utilizing a "very special" strategy in its efforts to decimate entire people groups.
"They dislocate the families, they take the newborn babies, and they put them in Islamist families," he told The Christian Post.
He said that the jihadist group trains young children to be terrorists while the men are often shot in pits. He added that young girls are sold in the sex trade. "The young girls who are virgins are selected by doctors and sold," he said.
Desbois said that the terrorists "dislocate families according to age, sexuality," adding that every member is used "in a special way." He believes that the group is very organized and he sees no sign of improvisation.
The priest, who founded the humanitarian organization Yahad-In Unum, has interviewed numerous Yazidi survivors who escaped from ISIS.
He has shared many of the interviews in Action Yazidis, an initiative of the organization which aims to uncover "facts of genocidal practices wherever they are found and provide a voice of protest on behalf of all victims and potential victims of genocide."
Desbois said that his organization has gathered "many testimonies of girls who say they have been used as human shields." He noted that the testimonies have been cross-referenced with other sources to get a clear picture of the atrocities commited by ISIS.
He believes that there are almost no Christians left under ISIS except for those who are held in captivity in territories controlled by the group.
He noted that while ISIS flaunts some of its atrocities online, the group is careful not to show all of its barbaric acts. "They show beheadings, crucifixions, or when they burn people, but they rarely show when they are raping a girl, or when they are training children in terrorist camps," he said.
Debois urged Christians to help refugee families fleeing from war-stricken areas and called on the government to help the victims find work. He said that one of the ways that people can help is to donate to organizations that are working to aid the victims of ISIS.
home World Professor admits misquoting Christian governor in Jakarta after blasphemy protests turn violent
Buni Yani, a former communications professor at the London School in central Jakarta, has admitted that he manipulated the words of the Christian governor of Jakarta to make it seem like he insulted Islam.
Hardline Islamic groups have warned against voting for Jakarta Gov. Tjahaja "Ahok" Basuki Purnama in the coming Indonesian elections on the basis of verse 51 from the fifth chapter of the Koran, al Ma'ida.
Some have interpreted the verse as instructions for Muslims not to live under the leadership of non-Muslims while others say that it only applies in the time of war.
Purnama issued a statement in which he warned that the Quranic verse was being misused to tell Muslims not to vote for him.
"Do not believe everything what people say... because often you are deceived by using verse 51 of Al Maidah (the fifth surah of the Qur'an)," he said.
On Nov. 4, tens of thousands of Indonesians marched on the streets calling for the arrest of Purnama for "slandering of Islam." The event resulted in violent clashes, with at least 160 protesters and 79 police officers injured.
According to Asia News, Yani confessed that he had misrepresented Purnama's statement and omitted a word "by mistake." By omitting the word "using" from the sentence, it seemed like the governor was saying that the verse from the Quran is deceiving Muslims. The professor, however, refused to admit that he was behind the protests in Jakarta.
Many observers believe that the case against Purnama falls apart due to Yani's admission. A petition against the professor has gathered more than 100,000 signatures calling on the police to charge him with moral and intellectual dishonesty.
"His actions are a provocation that degenerated into fury among most Muslim communities," it stated.
Purnama, the frontrunner in the 2017 electoral race, is a key ally of Indonesian President Joko Widodo. The president canceled his trip to Australia following the violent clashes.
Days before the protest, former president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, whose son is running against Purnama, called for the prosecution of the governor to appease the Islamist opposition.
'A Clear Attack On Freedom Of Religion': Israeli Government Backs Bill To Quieten Muslim Call To Prayer
A bill to ban mosques from using loudspeakers for the Muslim call to prayer won support from the coalition government in Israel last night, after the controversial measure was backed by right-wing Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu.
The prayer calls, traditionally announced through minarets five times a day, have been a frequent target of the Israeli right, but previous attempts to silence them through legislation have failed to garner large-scale support.
But after gaining the support of the Ministerial Committee for Legislation, the measure will now have coalition support as it moves to the Knesset, the Israeli parliament, the Times of Israel reports.
Following the announcement that the bill had passed, Jewish Home Knesset Member (MK) Moti Yogev, who instigated the legislation, thanked Netanyahu, Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked (also of Jewish Home), and the rest of the Government. "We have no intention to harm freedom of religion but rather to prevent the harming of people's sleep," he said.
Netanyahu pointed to similar restrictions in European and even some Muslim countries as justification for the move, and claimed that Muslims were among those "suffering" as a result of the prayer calls. "The Muslims, the Jews, and the Christian are all suffering from this," he said. "I can't tell you how many times people have approached me, from all walks of Israeli society, who are crying out about the suffering that is caused by excessive noise reaching them from prayer house announcements.
"Israel is a country that respects freedom of religion for all. Israel is committed to protect anyone who suffers from the excessively loud calls. That is the custom in many European cities. That is the custom also in various places in the Muslim world, where they limited the volume of the calls out of consideration for the general public."
However, Arab lawmakers attacked the proposal. Joint (Arab) List leader MK Aymen Odeh called it "another bill, in a series of populist bills, whose objective is to create an atmosphere of hate and incitement against the Arab population."
He added: "There are noise laws and regulations that also apply to mosques, so it's clear that the sole purpose of the bill is to mark the mosques as a problem source. It is a clear attack on Muslim freedom of religion and the continuation of a wave of persecution that the prime minister is leading."
His fellow party MK Hanin Zoabi suggested that those who are disturbed by the calls to prayer should live elsewhere including Europe.
"Those who suffer from the sounds of the muezzins are specifically those who chose to settle near the the mosques, and... they are invited to leave if they are suffering so much," she said. "This isn't Europe here. Anyone who feels like he is in Europe, and thinks this is Europe, should consider going there."
The bill aims to prevent calls to prayer from "conveying religious or nationalist messages, or even words of incitement," and seeks to ban sound systems at all houses of prayer in the country, not just in mosques.
"Hundreds of thousands of Israeli citizens in the Galilee, Negev, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv-Jaffa and other places in central Israel suffer regularly and daily from the noise caused by the call of the muezzin from mosques," reads the legislation.
"The noise made by these public calls disturbs the rest of the citizens several times a day, including in the early mornings and at nighttime," it says.
Some 20 per cent of Israel's population are Arab most of them Muslim and the calls to prayer are a familiar sound in many parts of the country.
Jerusalem is revered as a centre for all three monotheistic religions.
Ancient Jerusalem Tombs Damaged In Suspected Arson Attack
Two ancient tombs were severely damaged by fires outside Jerusalem's Old City in suspected arson attacks on Friday.
Investigators in Israel do not know who set fire to Absalom's Tomb in the Kidron Valley, opposite the Temple Mount, and the adjacent Tomb of Jehoshephat.
The tombs, which date to the Second Temple period, are among a cluster of ancient graves at the base of the Mount of Olives.
Absalom's Tomb is traditionally identified as a monument to the biblical figure of the same name, though archaeologists have dated the edifice to the 1st century BC.
According to the Times of Israel, the fires broke out around 4:15 pm on Friday and caused extensive damage to the 2,000-year-old structures.
Assaf Avraham, the Israel Park's Authority administrator in charge of the national park surrounding the Old City's walls, said in a statement that the blazes "caused damage to values of [historic] heritage and archaeological gems of great value."
He added: "We will act to the extent of our abilities with law enforcement, including the police, to find those responsible and bring them to justice."
A police spokesman declined to comment on the case.
The Times of Israel reported that three other suspected arson attacks targeting municipal sewage trucks also took place in East Jerusalem on Friday night, but that there was no indication there was any correlation between the fires and the suspected attack on the ancient tombs.
'Climate Change Is Not A Hoax': Christian Scientist Pens Open Letter To Donald Trump
A prominent Christian climate change scientist has called on the President-elect to work with other countries in support of the Paris agreement.
In an open letter to Donald Trump, atmospheric scientist Dr Katharine Hayhoe pleads with him to accept that climate change is "real" and not a hoax.
Hayhoe, associate professor of political science at Texas Tech University, where she is director of the Climate Science Center, writes: "You've given a voice to the fear and anger, the anxiety and frustration of millions of US citizens. That surprises us, shocks us, and even scares us too.
"But to heal a suppurating boil, we can't just slap some cover-up on it. It has to be lanced. And my hope, from the bottom of my heart, is that by doing so, you will start the healing process.
"I'm a climate scientist. Thanks to decades and even centuries of careful research, we know climate is changing, we're responsible, and the impacts are serious.
"I've helped write US national climate assessments that document how climate change is affecting the country's water, its energy, ecosystems, infrastructure, and even people's health.
"This thing is not a hoax; it's real."
The issue of climate change has divided evangelicals among themselves and also from the rest of the population in the United States. Overall, seven in ten US adults believe global warming is man-made, but among evangelicals, four-fifths do not think humans have caused it.
Donald Trump is a climate change denier. His advisers during his campaign included Kevin Cramer of North Dakota, a prominent oil and gas man and a climate change sceptic.
Reuters reported this week that Donald Trump believes climate change is a hoax and is looking for a fast way to exit the accord so he does not have to implement the agreement to cut greenhouse gas emissions.
Hayhoe, who is from Toronto and is married to Church Without Religion pastor Andrew Farley of Texas, describes herself as an evangelical Christian. Seven years ago, Hayhoe wrote a chapter of a book by Trump advisor Newt Gingrich about climate change. The chapter was first accepted, and subsequently dropped on the request of Gingrich himself.
Hayhoe writes in her letter to Trump: "I think I speak for many in the US, in Canada, and around the world, when I say that you've surprised us, you've shocked us, and you've even scared us. Why? Because your words and your actions will affect us all."
She says climate change isn't fair, and disproportionately affects the poor and the weak, the vulnerable and the disadvantaged.
These are the very people who contributed least to the problem but bear the brunt of its impacts, she writes.
She urges Trump to "work together instead of tearing each other apart".
In her latest Global Weirding video, posted the day after the election, she says research shows that a person's view on climate change can be predicted by which party they belong to. The physics used to determine global warming is the same physics as that used to design Boeing aircraft, yet no-one accuses aircraft designers of perpetrating a hoax. "The science isn't political. We get the same results, whether we're Republican or Democrat."
Earlier this month, Hayhoe told The Observer that she would be "alarmed" if Donald Trump won the election.
Don't Panic, The Supermoon Doesn't Signal The End Of The World
Today will see a 'supermoon' rise, when the moon will appear 14 per cent bigger and 30 per cent brighter than usual. Depending on where in the world you live, you may already have seen it. People lucky enough to have a clear sky will see a beautiful sight tonight. In the UK the moon will appear in all its glory just before 5pm. Because its orbit is elliptical or oval-shaped rather than perfectly round, it's closer to the planet sometimes than at other times. Today sees it approach closer than at any time for the last 69 years. Some Christians see this as one of the signs alluded to in apocalyptic biblical references marking the end of the world and the coming of Christ.
Is it?
No.
A little more detail, perhaps...?
No.
Oh, come on.
Look: it's got nothing to do with anything in the Bible. At all. It's just that the moon is a bit closer to the earth than normal. Go and take a picture of it, unless you live in the UK.
Why not in the UK?
It will probably be raining.
So why do people think there is something apocalyptic about it?
There are biblical verses like Luke 21:25-26: "And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; men's hearts failing them for fear..." Joel 2:30-31 says: "And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth: Blood and fire and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord." Revelation 6:12 says: "I looked when He opened the sixth seal, and behold, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became like blood."
Supermoon. Don't forget the supermoon, people. Is anyone up on their biblical prophecies? Is this the harbinger of the final apocalypse? We are Brisbane/MEL! (@WeAreBrisbane) November 14, 2016
It sounds terrifying.
That's the idea. But serious scholars doubt that this sort of language is being used to refer to a real dissolution of the material world, and even if it is, there's no way of connecting it to actual astronomical or other events.
You sound a bit sceptical.
I hope I sound a bit biblical. In Genesis 1:14-19 God makes the sun, moon and stars, and they are described as "lights" they are not signs and portents. It's a way of combating the superstition of astrologers and magicians. We shouldn't fall for this kind of thing. Throughout history there have been people who've claimed to see biblical prophecy fulfilled in astronomical phenomena. They have all been entirely wrong.
Earthquakes in New Zealand and Argentina today and supermoon tonight. Not saying the apocalypse is happening but the apocalypse is happening Jamie Roberts (@VincenzoJRezwah) November 13, 2016
But there have been earthquakes, haven't there?
Yes, but that's probably just a coincidence; though there's a school of thought that says the increased gravitational pull of the moon could help trigger them. Either way, it's not the end of the world.
What about the opening of Jesus' tomb, some say that's relevant?
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is being repaired. It's a building project, that's all again, it's not the end of the world.
And what about the other thing you know, Donald Trump?
Let's just leave it there, shall we?
Follow Mark Woods on Twitter: @RevMarkWoods
Monday is decision day for the Billings City Council on One Big Sky Center.
After delaying its decision last month, the council is scheduled to vote on approving a pre-development memorandum of understanding between the city and MontDevCo LLC, which proposes to build the $165 million multi-use development with help from tax increment financing and other sources.
Mondays meeting begins with a closed session at 5:30 p.m., during which the city council will discuss litigation strategy. The open session will begin at 6:30 p.m. in council chambers at City Hall, 220 N. 27th St.
According to a memo from Assistant City Administrator Bruce McCandless, Mondays vote will be the councils first official opportunity to endorse the project.
While the agreement contains no concrete commitments or responsibilities, it does authorize staff to work with the developers to produce an acceptable development agreement by June 30, 2017, McCandless wrote.
That date could be extended. In a Nov. 7 email to City Administrator Tina Volek, the developers request that the predevelopment MOU the precursor to the development agreement, which will be much more specific about what's required of both the city and the developers be extended beyond June 30, 2017, to one year beyond the council's adoption of the predevelopment agreement.
The staff recommends that the council approve the predevelopment agreement.
Other action
The city council will also vote on a two-year labor contract with firefighters. The proposed contract, which the International Association of Firefighters Local 521 approved last month, includes a 3.2 percent cost of living boost for the first year of the contract, retroactive to July 1, and a 3 percent increase during the second year.
Council members are also scheduled to vote on a proposed $24,500 raise for Volek, which would bring her annual salary to $155,000.
The council extended Voleks employment contract on Sept. 26, then met privately with her on Oct. 19 to discuss a raise, which Volek has not received for several years.
The city council is also being asked to endorse the Authorize Community Transformation (ACT) initiative. ACT is an organization promoting passage of a local option authority in the 2017 legislative session.
If approved first by the Legislature and then Billings voters, a local option tax of up to 3 cents per dollar would be imposed for up to a decade on certain goods and services to fund specific capital improvements.
According to a memo from Volek, the city council would appoint a committee to recommend projects.
A 3-cent local option tax would raise about $47 million annually in Billings.
That initiative, if approved, would be alongside requests by the Montana Infrastructure Coalition, a group that proposes measures including lifting the 5,500 population lid on communities eligible to enact a resort tax.
Billings is a voting member of the coalition.
Mondays consent agenda includes a $75,000 conditional mediated settlement between the city and the Billings Industrial Revitalization District.
The settlement involves attorneys fees in a 2013 case involving the citys Board of Adjustment.
Five Suspected Islamic Militants Arrested After Indonesian Church Attack That Killed Toddler
Indonesian police today arrested five people in connection with a suspected militant attack on a church on Sunday that killed one infant and injured three others.
Police said they were investigating possible links to ISIS. The attack in the car park of a church in Samarinda, in Indonesia's East Kalimantan province, was the latest in a series that has raised concerns over rising militancy in the world's largest Muslim-majority nation. An ISIS-linked assault in the capital Jakarta in January killed four people.
Police said the attacker had been imprisoned on terrorism charges in the past and had links to existing radical networks.
Children were playing in the front yard of the Oikumene Church when the suspect, Juhanda, or Jo bin Muhammad Aceng, threw the bomb, Kompas daily reported.
Intan Marbun, reportedly two or three years old, suffered severe burns and died in the early hours of Monday morning. The other three children are between two and three years old, Time reported.
The suspect is said to have worn a black T-shirt that read "Jihad Way of Life" during the attack on Sunday. He was previously sentenced in 2012 to three years and six months in prison for his involvement in the "book-bomb" plot in Jakarta a year before. One of the targets was a liberal cultural centre named Teater Utan Kayu. He received remission of sentence and was released in July 2014.
Juhanda was arrested again in September 2014 after he was found with an ISIS flag in Parepare, Sulawesi. At the time, he was allegedly trying to find and kill his wife.
"This case has opened our eyes that [the counter-terrorism agency] BNPT needs to improve its de-radicalization programme," legislator Eva Sundari said in a statement on Sunday. President Joko Widodo added that "the bomb case in Samarinda has to be investigated thoroughly."
In late August, a suicide bomber tried to attack a crowded Catholic church in the Sumatran city of Medan, but the would-be bomber's vest failed to detonate. A drawing resembling an ISIS flag was reportedly found at the scene.
Additional reporting by Reuters.
God's Sovereignty Doesn't Mean He Controls Everything, And Here's Why
Is God sovereign? Yes.
Does that mean he controlled who won last week's US presidential election?
No.
Can these two statements both be true? Aren't there biblical texts that seem to say that God controls everything? Isn't saying he doesn't control some things a limitation on his sovereignty?
A column I wrote for Christian Today last week with the title Yes, God Is Sovereign. That Doesn't Mean He Chooses Who Runs America generated an extraordinary quantity of Twitter abuse. Some might have taken exception to a slight hint of anti-Trump bias (a "serial sex pest, braggart, narcissist, bully and all-round loose cannon who has been described as the most unqualified person ever to seek high office") but in general the critiques had two main thrusts. One was that the Bible teaches God is in control of everything. The other was that if you didn't believe that you didn't believe in his sovereignty.
Both are wrong.
Take the biblical texts. Here are a selection of the many suggested, and why I don't think they can be used to argue God chose Trump as President:
"I form the light and create darkness, I bring prosperity and create disaster. I, the Lord, do all these things" (Isaiah 45:7). This doesn't say that every time there's prosperity or disaster God does it; it just says he does it. And it has nothing to do with Trump's election.
"The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord" (Proverbs 16:33). An election is not the same as a roll of the dice.
"We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28). Amen and amen. God will bring good out of evil; it's what he does.
"He changes times and season; he sets up kings and deposes them" (Daniel 2:21). The clear biblical witness is that God is active in biblical history; no argument there. But whether his involvement extends to dictating the result of a US presidential election is a different matter entirely.
So, you see where I'm going here. A text without a context is a pretext. We can't just lift out of Scripture a text that is specific to a particular time and place and make it universally relevant. Furthermore, we have to think about what kind of Scripture we're talking about: poetry is not designed to teach core doctrine, it reflects how God's people actually live and experience their faith. We can go badly wrong if we make it say more than it means.
The Bible teaches that God works in history. It teaches that he is all-powerful and all-knowing (omnipotent and omniscient). Because he is all-powerful and could stop evil if he wanted to, and sometimes chooses not to, there is a sense in which he wills what he allows. But that is not the same as saying he desires it and this is where those who believe his sovereignty means he controls everything fall into terrible error.
God does not will evil. It is incorrect to say when someone suffers it's because God has ordained it. It is wrong to say he controls everything that happens. Sovereignty does not mean that God plans everything.
Just think about what it would mean if he did. It would mean God ordained the Holocaust. He ordained the slave trade. He ordained the drugs that are ruining countless lives. From the killing fields of Cambodia to the concentration camps of North Korea: all of this is God's sovereign will. The child who dies before its time, the suffering of those with incurable and life-limiting illnesses: God has done all of this.
You don't think that follows? Well, you can say that of course God's sovereignty doesn't negate human free will and it's all a mystery. But here's the thing: understood like this with him in absolute control of every outcome it does. If God planned the result of the US election, it means he dictated the choices of the millions of people who voted for Trump, choosing exactly how the electoral college votes would pan out to give him the victory. Could he have done so? Of course. Did he? We have absolutely no biblical reason for thinking so.
And what about the unchosen evils the illnesses, the premature deaths? Are we to assume that these too are ordained by God? There are plenty of examples in the Bible where God seems to inflict sickness or death like Miriam's leprosy in Numbers 12, for instance. There are other occasions when people just get ill or die like the Shunammite's son in 2 Kings 4. But this terrible fatalistic doctrine implies that God himself is deliberately inflicting death and disease on everyone who experiences it.
It's a view that's promulgated by influential Bible teachers like those associated with The Gospel Coalition. There's a TGC podcast entitled Why 'God Didn't Ordain That Tragedy' Is Terrible News that argues this. It's a three-hander between John Piper, Matt Chandler (who has suffered from cancer) and David Platt. They talk, honestly and sometimes movingly, about suffering and their own experiences of it and of how what got them through it is the belief that God ordained it. This is described as "high view" of the sovereignty of God.
One of them (I'm not always clear who's talking) says God "not only allows these things but he ordains these things for our good. We have a loving father who gives us what works together for our good."
And someone says, "[If he didn't] then he's not in control, and he's not able to ensure that this is going to work together for good."
And here's the logical leap that falls right into the spiritual crevasse. It's not because God plans what happens to people that he's able to help them in it and bring them through the valley of the shadow of death. It's because he is God. And he is not a micro-manager, carefully inflicting exactly the right level of pain on us for our own good; he is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
What's happened when language like this is used is that the Bible is being squeezed into the mould of human logic and philosophy. It satisfies the contributors to that podcast and I'm truly glad it helped them. But I want to say that it's not, actually, intellectually satisfying, and you are not obliged to believe it.
And what about that charge that God is not really sovereign if he doesn't plan everything? Think of it like this:
Suppose I have a cat, and it's sitting in the middle of the sofa where I want to sit.
I can move it to the right, and I've exercised my sovereignty over the cat.
I can move it to the left, and I've exercised my sovereignty over the cat.
I can tell it to move, and I've exercised my sovereignty whether it does or not.
Or I can sit somewhere else, and I've still exercised my sovereignty by leaving it entirely up to the cat whether it chooses to move or not. If it moves to its bowl, I'll give it water. If it meeows at the door, I'll let it out. If it claws at the furniture I'll yell and throw a newspaper at it. It can come and sit on my knee, and I'll stroke it.
How is my sovereignty impaired? It isn't. The cat has free will. We are in a loving relationship at least, I tell myself it's loving on the cat's side too, but hey, it's a cat.
And that is a truer picture of our relationship with God than the image of him as a puppet-master, jerking the strings of humanity to produce a particular election result while he leaves us the illusion of free will. Freedom, as I said in that much denounced earlier post, is freedom and we have to deal with it.
Mark Woods is the author of Does the Bible really say that? Challenging our assumptions in the light of Scripture (Lion, 8.99). Follow him on Twitter: @RevMarkWoods
Is BBC Coverage Too Christian? Corporation To 'Revamp Output For Other Faiths'
The BBC is planning to increase its coverage of non-Christian religions and could broadcast Muslim Friday prayers after claims that its output is too Christian, according to The Times.
Lord Hall of Birkenhead, the BBC's director-general, is reportedly inviting religious leaders to join discussions about plans for more multi-faith coverage and will appoint a senior executive, who will sit on the board of governors, to draw up new programme ideas alongside broadcasts such as Songs of Praise and Thought for the Day.
The Times reported that sources had made clear that increased multi-faith coverage will not be at the expense of Christian output. However, the reported revamp comes after criticism that Muslims, Hindus and Sikhs were being ignored, and an internal BBC report which concluded that there was a disproportionate amount of programming on Christianity compared with other faiths.
Earlier this year Aaqil Ahmed, the head of religion and ethics at the BBC who recently announced he would be leaving the corporation, told a House of Commons committee that he had prepared a report for Lord Hall outlining the religious mix. "Christianity remains the cornerstone of our output and there are more hours dedicated to it than there are to other faiths," he said.
The Times said that Lord Hall was determined to do more to more represent other faiths. "Faith is remarkably important," a source was quoted as saying by the newspaper. "The BBC can and must do more to ensure that the important role faith plays is recognised and reflected in our programming."
Religious leaders likely to be invited to the discussions include Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury; Cardinal Vincent Nichols, the Archbishop of Westminster; Ephraim Mirvis, the Chief Rabbi; Harun Khan, the head of the Muslim Council of Britain, and Hindu and Sikh leaders.
Ibrahim Mogra of the Muslim Council of Britain reportedly said that the BBC could televise Friday prayers from a mosque, cover Eid, or children attending Koranic lessons.
A spokesperson for the Board of Deputies of British Jews said: "We would love to see a programme exploring the history of Jewish-Muslim co-operation over the centuries, such as during the Holocaust when many Jews were saved by Muslims."
In September, the BBC appointed the former interviewer Martin Bashir as its new religious affairs correspondent.
Justin Welby Preaches At Catholic Westminster Cathedral For First Time
The Archbishop of Canterbury preached for the first time at Westminster Cathedral, the heart of the British Catholic Church, on Sunday.
Cardinal Vincent Nichols welcomed Justin Welby along with Catholic bishops from England and Wales for the closing of the Door of Mercy at the end of the Year of Mercy.
Welby said the year, which began in December 2015, had "caught the imagination, not only in the Catholic Church, but in all churches and far beyond," according to Independent Catholic News.
He added: "Mercy is the gift that goes on giving... that dissolves the hardness of hearts."
The Year of Mercy was announced by Pope Francis in March 2015 and is described as "extraordinary" because it does not fit within the usual 25-year cycle of Jubilee Years in the Catholic Church.
Each Jubilee Year is usually marked with the opening of the Door of Mercy in St Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. But for this Year of Mercy Pope Francis wanted a door in each diocese so everyone could celebrate the festival.
Welby said the Door of Mercy "calls us back to receive mercy by grace and to be people of mercy". He compared it to the wardrobe door in the Narnia chronicles and said mercy opens people to a different world the Kingdom of God.
Vincent Nichols, as Archbishop of Westminster, is the head of the Catholic Church in England and Wales and opened the Door of Mercy on 13 December 2015.
Welby's first sermon at Westminster Cathedral for the closing of the door comes after a number of ecumenical initiatives to bring the two Churches together.
The door has remained open throughout the Jubilee Year of Mercy, receiving pilgrims from around the country. The year will end on Sunday 20 November when Pope Francis will close the Holy Door at St Peter's Basilica.
Kidnapped Mexican Priest Is Found Alive But Tortured
A priest and human rights activist abducted in Mexico has been found alive but tortured, the Roman Catholic Church said yesterday.
Father Jose Luis Sanchez Ruiz was abducted in the state of Veracruz, said the Associated Press, the third priest to have been kidnapped since September.
The other two were shot and killed.
Accordng to Bishop Fidencio Lopez, Sanchez Ruiz "had been dumped, with notable signs of torture" at an undisclosed location.
Residents of his home town of Catemaco protested for two days after his abduction, burning part of the town hall and a police patrol truck while demanding his release.
The spokesman for the diocese, Fr Aaron Reyes, told the Milenio television news channel Sanchez Ruiz had been threatened because of his activism.
The priest "had received threats in recent days because he is a defender of human rights and social causes. He has criticised the system of corruption and the crime problem in Catemaco," Reyes said.
Sanchez Ruiz had taken part in a recent protest against high electricity bills.
At least 31 priests have been killed in Mexico since 2006, most of them in areas plagued by drug violence.
Mexico's Catholic Media Centre says Veracruz, Guerrero and Mexico states are the most dangerous for priests. Along with Michoacan, they are among the states with the worst drug-cartel problems.
Row Over Release Of Gay Clergy List
A row has erupted over a list of gay Church of England clergy published by a conservative Anglican group.
GAFCON UK released the list on Sunday of clergy known to be in same-sex relationships or who have officiated over gay unions. Although those named have already publicly come out as gay, it is the first time such a list has been compiled and raised fears it will lead to increased abuse.
The list on the GAFCON UK website said it was recently given as a briefing for conservative bishops around the world to highlight the state of the Church of England.
The notes described "chaos" in each Anglican province and listed a number of "violations" of the Church's ban on same-sex marriages, as laid out in the landmark Lambeth 1.10 resolution passed in 1998.
"While orthodox believers certainly hope that the Church of England does not go further in violating Lambeth 1.10, the situation in England as it currently stands is already a scandal within the Anglican Communion," said the briefing.
The "partial list" catalogues "some of the ways in which Lambeth 1.10 has been violated within the Church of England".
Canon Chris Sugden, a retired minister on the Church's conservative wing, told Christian Today the list was "a helpful gathering of information".
He said the Church's discipline rules for clergy who broke rank were difficult and expensive to enact but said there was a "simple route forward". He called on bishops to declare they are "individually in impaired communion with those who have breached the Church's teaching and discipline in these regards".
But a number of LGBT clergy raised fears the list could lead to targeting and abuse.
Rev Andrew Foreshew-Cain, a married gay vicar in London who regularly receives hate mail, said the list served "no other purpose other than to make us targets in some way".
Foreshew-Cain's marriage was highlighted by the list. He told Christian Today: "None of us are ashamed. I am legally married and that should be celebrated." But he said the list would "encourage the harassment of clergy and lay people" who are openly gay. "If anyone is ashamed here it should be GAFCON."
Canon Jeremy Pemberton, another married gay priest named on the list, said it was "disgusting to try and target people like this". But he added he was "glad" GAFCON had made the point the CofE had crossed a line.
Tracey Byrne, chief executive for the Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement (LGCM), slammed the list as "contemptible" and added: "It is quite clear that their intention is to 'name and shame'.
"This goes beyond political strategy this is a deliberate attempt to deny God's presence in the lives of real people, and to condemn them by public shaming."
The list was released as senior bishops are preparing to meet in December to discuss the next steps for the Church over its ban on gay marriage. A group of bishops will bring a recommendation to the CofE's ruling general synod in February. One possible option is some form of "pastoral accommodation" that would allow liberal clergy to celebrate same-sex unions in church without an official change in teaching.
GAFCON has made its opposition to any change in direction clear. The briefing on Sunday said: "To restore order and a credible Christian witness, the upcoming meetings of the House of Bishops and General Synod would need to not merely avoid going further in violating Lambeth 1.10, but it would need to take constructive steps to rectify the numerous public (and presumably private) breaches that have been strategically taken by some to undermine the teaching of the Communion."
Rev James Paice, part of the GAFCON UK Taskforce, told Christian Today: "This report is shocking because it shows the extent to which revisionism has infected the the Church of England." He said CofE leaders had turned a "blind eye to blatant violations" and added more conservative Anglican leaders around the world had "concluded that the Church of England is a sinking ship".
Rev Canon Andrew Gross, press officer for Gafcon Global later said:
"There was never any intention to 'name and shame' individuals. How could there be? The document lists public actions taken by individuals who are very proud of what they have been doing. In many of these cases, these activists were actively courting the media in order that their violations of Lambeth 1.10 would have the greatest possible impact.
"For these same activists to then turn around and claim that cataloguing each of their media blitzes is some kind of personal attack is completely disingenuine. The "naming and shaming" narrative was invented by activists in a self-serving attempt to paint themselves as victims. It is completely inaccurate."
GAFCON UK incorrectly state Diverse Church "openly advocate for violating Lambeth 1.10". They do not and do not campaign for a change in Church teaching.
Prayers Still Needed for 3 Christian Men Freed After Months in Iran Prison
Three Christian men from Azerbaijan have finally been released after months of imprisonment in Iran, but Open Doors USA says they still need prayers from fellow believers since they can still be rearrested and imprisoned anew.
The three were earlier arrested for attending a marriage ceremony, which Iranian authorities perceived to be a public display of faith, Mission Network News reported, citing information from Open Doors USA.
Eldar Gurbanov, Yusif Farhadov, and Bahram Nasibov were released on bail last Sunday and were able to return to their respective families in Azerbaijan. The three Christian men were taken into custody by Iranian authorities along with seven other individuals while they were attending a friend's wedding back in June.
While the others were immediately released, Eldar, Yusif and Bahram, along with another Iranian Christian, were held by the authorities without explanation in Evin Prison in northwestern Tehran, where political prisoners are usually detained.
While in prison, the three Christian men from Azerbaijan were reportedly kept in solitary confinement facilities and interrogated. They were also denied any form of legal assistance, and their families were not even notified on their whereabouts.
To help the detained Christians, Open Doorswhich extends assistance to persecuted Christians worldwidelaunched a petition asking the government of Iran to set them free and let them practice their religion freely. Thousands of Christians signed this petition.
"We know that it's mixed with that effort, mixed with the prayers around the world that we have the amazing news that they've been released on bail. So we're praising God today for this good story!" Emily Fuentes of Open Doors USA told Mission Network News.
She nevertheless urged Christians to still pray for their freed fellow faithful from Azerbaijan, saying that they are still facing threats of being rearrested for their religious beliefs.
"That can happen in this country and it has. But we're thankful they're out of prison, because that's also not the fate for many Christians... Pray for them and pray that God would truly allow it so they could be set free," Fuentes said.
Returning Home Still a Dream for Christians From Iraq Even After ISIS Defeat
Although militant fighters from the Islamic State (ISIS) terror group have already left some parts of Iraq, Christians from the Middle Eastern country still consider returning to their homes as a faraway dream.
Maha al Kahwaji, a Christian woman from Karamlesh village in northern Iraq, for instance, spoke eagerly of her home town during one of the meetings among Christians in the city of Erbil, located 40 miles away.
Maha admitted though that she is not keeping her hopes up about returning home, especially in the current state that Karamlesh village is in after it was seized by the ISIS over a year ago.
"I adore my village. I adore it... But to return is difficult," she told the National Public Radio. "It's not just difficult, with the tunnels, the burning of homes and the destruction. It's impossible."
The experiences of others who tried to return to Karamlesh village are discouraging Maha. She has observed that most of those who attempted to go back only ended up resettling in other places.
Taher Bahoo, a businessman from Karamlesh village, witnessed the destruction brought by the ISIS to his homeland when he recently visited the place. He dropped by his family house, and could not hide his sadness with what he saw.
"All my life I was here," he murmured, as he looked around the house that has been ransacked. He also said that he does not want his parents to see what has become of their home. He plans to clean and repair everything to make it more livable.
Bahoo also reminisced the time when he and his family were able to live in peace in Karamlesh. He is still hopeful that they will be able to return there one day.
"When I was just 5, 6, 7 years age, we were playing here... It was peaceful. It's difficult very difficult to imagine what happened here... Looks like, I don't know another place," he said.
Samsung Galaxy S8 release date, specs rumors: Snapdragon 830 variant to come out later in 2017?
It is expected that the upcoming Galaxy S8 will come out in both Exynos and Snapdragon versions. However, the release may be staggered, as the Snapdragon variant is likely to come out later.
Alleged reports out of China mention that Qualcomm has asked Samsung to manufacture the 10-nm chipset scheduled for release early next year. However, with the fiasco with the Galaxy Note 7 release, the South Korea-based tech maker had to realign its production lines in order to make its scheduled release of the Galaxy S8 in Q1 2017. The Samsung flagships are mainly run by homegrown Exynos chipsets. It is likely that Samsung will focus on the new Exynos 8895 chipset, the processor for the upcoming flagship.
Meanwhile, Qualcomm has reportedly turned to another noted manufacturer, TSMC, to make the Snapdragon 830 chipset. However, there may be a slight setback for the release because of the production shift. This means that a global launch for the Galaxy S8, which will feature the Snapdragon 830 processor, is likely to be delayed.
Usually, Samsung schedules both Exynos and Snapdragon-powered flagships for global rollout at the same time.
Meanwhile, there are also reports that the Exynos-powered Samsung Galaxy S8 may also suffer a delayed release. According to The Wall Street Journal, the Galaxy S8 will offer a number of major improvements over its predecessor, including an AI-supported digital assistant. Reportedly, the massive changes for the new flagship will set back the release of the Galaxy S8 by a couple of months. In a revamped schedule, the new flagship is expected to come out by April at the earliest.
Usually, Samsung releases its next Galaxy S flagship at the start of the year and one of its showcase products for the annual Mobile World Congress (MWC). Previous reports have mentioned that the Galaxy S8 will appear on Feb. 26, before the start of the 2017 MWC.
'Supernatural' season 12 spoilers: The Winchesters' lives at risk following funeral?
The Winchesters must act fast in order to prevent another demon attack that could kill them and the other hunters in the next episode of "Supernatural" season 12.
According to the synopsis for the episode titled "Celebrating The Life of Asa Fox," Dean (Jensen Ackles), Sam (Jared Padalecki) and their mother, Mary (Samantha Smith), will join a group of hunters who will commemorate the life of one of their own who died tragically.
But as they mourn together the death of their fellow hunter, they will realize that a demon is bound to kill them one at a time. This means that the Winchesters must act fast to stop the demon's plan to obliterate the hunters.
Reports also revealed that "Pretty Little Liars" star Kara Royster will appear in the upcoming episode. She will reportedly portray the role of Alicia, a hunter raised by a witch together with her brother Max.
The episode will also see the return of Billie (Lisa Berry). The reaper was last seen in the finale of season 11, titled "Alpha and Omega," where she helped the Winchester brothers gather a huge crowd of souls that they can use as their weapon to destroy the Darkness. In the trailer for the upcoming episode, Billie will warn the hunters that "everyone dies" because of the demon.
Another returning character is Sioux Falls, South Dakota sheriff Jody Mills (Kim Rhodes). She will join the Winchesters as they pay their last respects for the hunter who died in the line of duty.
The Futon Critic revealed the synopsis for the upcoming episode, which reads: "When hunters gather together to celebrate the life and tragic death of one of their own, Sam, Dean and Mary must take action when a demon starts picking off hunters one by one."
The episode is slated to air on Thursday, Nov. 17, at 9 p.m. ET on The CW.
By the time Larry Heafner deleted his Facebook page, people had already taken screenshots of posts he'd written with comments they called racist, sexist, homophobic and otherwise offensive.
The posts spread like electricity among Billings Facebook users.
One post penned by Heafner, who is a co-owner of The Coffee Tavern, described sodomizing a women with a bat. Another said he concluded that any man who voted for Hillary Clinton is a homosexual.
In another post, left under a viral video that showed black men assaulting a white man, Heafner wrote that "These f---ing monkeys would be hanging if I saw this s---."
Eight minutes later, he added, "You don't see white people doing this s---!"
Screenshots of his posts erupted on Facebook over the weekend, with some calling for a boycott of The Coffee Tavern, which has yet to open. Most of the saved posts spanned the week surrounding Election Day.
In one post, he said The Coffee Tavern in downtown Billings would "never recognize a murdering whore for president" and that people who didn't like that idea could stay out of the shop. He later took back that statement related to future customers.
Reached on Sunday, Heafner said he realized that he'd made offensive comments. He said he "completely" apologized and said that he'd spent the weekend reaching out to people he knows who might have been offended.
"I'm not going to sit here and try to excuse my derogatory comments, because that would be ridiculous," he said.
But in the middle of a social media backlash, Heafner was bothered by the notion that he would be called a racist.
"I have a hard time buying that," he said.
Heafner said he was wrapped up in the election cycle, which by most accounts took a tense tone in 2016. He said he "bought into the rhetoric" of some of the more extreme views.
Most of his posts had political themes. Heafner repeatedly said Sunday the country is divided and that his comments fell into that contentious vein.
Josh Schleining took screenshots of the original posts. Schleining was collecting multiple offensive posts in the wake of the election.
He said he wasn't trying to target Heafner, but once other users started sharing Heafner's comments, the online floodgates opened. The rate of sharing startled Schleining.
I feel like people took it a bit too far initially, but if you were able to still see his profile of all the things he was saying publicly, it was absolutely disgusting," he said.
A day after he posted that first screenshot, Heafner's Facebook page went dark.
The shared posts, comments and other reactions to Heafner's comments came by the thousands during the weekend. It's unclear how the online vitriol will affect the material world, as the opening date of The Coffee Tavern remains in question.
It just can't be tolerated," said Lisa Harmon, executive director of the Downtown Billings Alliance, of Heafner's posts. "I met with my staff yesterday and was in communication with my board and just trying to understand the situation."
Harmon said hundreds of messages came to her phone this weekend letting her know about the posts. She said the business development organization has yet to decide what its next step, if any, might be.
Eran Thompson, who sits on the Montana advisory committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, the Montana Human Rights Network Board and the Not In Our Town national board, said he wasn't shocked he was disappointed.
"I think this is a microcosm of whats happening in our world," Thompson said. "Its very real, this anger and resentment toward people of color and women and people with disabilities.
Thompson said that, in these situations, actions speak louder than words. He said a public apology by Heafner, as well as anti-oppression training, would be positive steps.
Heafner said that his comments, which included racist and sexist ideas, don't reflect his personality. He said that his black friends and colleagues who are minorities are evidence of this.
The Coffee Tavern Facebook page has been shut down in addition to Heafner's. He said the shop's opening has been postponed, but he has no intention to leave his ownership stake.
He's now focused on how this will affect his business on Second Avenue North.
"I just hope people can realize that I am sincere," he said of his apology.
Tears Amid Rubble And Shattered Glass: Christians Return To Iraq Church Devastated By ISIS
Christians openly wept as they gathered in their church in Karamles in Iraq on Sunday, which had been desecrated during two years of ISIS rule.
According to Associated Press, shattered glass covered the floor, a tomb had been severely damaged and a statue of the Virgin Mary had been beheaded.
Karamles was overrun by Islamic State in 2014 but was liberated three weeks ago as part of the offence to retake Mosul that began on October 17.
An ancient Assyrian town less than 18km from Mosul, about a third of the Christians from Karamles have fled in the last two and a half years, but the majority now live in displaced persons camps in Kurdistan.
Some returned on Sunday to take part in a prayer service at the St Addai church, led by Rev Thabet Habib.
Almaz Sleiman, 54, was among them. She cried throughout the gathering. "First when you see it of course it's unsettling, and then you cry because of the situation here and the conditions we are living in now," she told AP.
"Honestly I cannot describe the way I feel."
Sahir Shamoun, another former resident of the town, said he and his wife had returned to Karamles to find their house still standing, but looted.
"I feel great sadness," he said. "I'm not sure when or if I'll be back. I think of my children, will they have a future here?
"You put the cornerstone for your home, but still you know it's not yours. But we are stubborn people, we will keep building."
Father Thabet currently ministers to his displaced congregation in Erbil, but has returned to Karamles several times now.
Last month, he raised a cross covered with flowers on a hill overlooking the town.
"I am so happy I can do this. I'm smiling from cheek to cheek and I weep tears of joy at the same time," he said at the time, according to World Watch Monitor. "This is the trip I have been praying for, for two years now."
"My dream is to bring all the Christians back to this village. Then we will worship outside on Barbara Hill; we will have the Eucharist in the open air," he added. "Everybody will see that this is the Church; this is the Body of Christ; this is Christian land. That is my dream to give a testimony to the world."
These Teen Boys Converted From Islam To Christianity. Now They Are On The Run, Threatened With Death For Apostasy
Two teenage boys who converted to Christianity from Islam have been forced to go on the run in fear of their lives.
The Muslim persecution of the two Christian boys in Uganda is reported by Release International and Morning Star News.
Already, Muslims in their village in eastern Uganda's Kibuku district have set fire to the home of a Christian adult who had given them refuge. This man's house has been completely gutted.
The two boys, aged 16 and 17, fled in fear for their lives after their own parents threatened to kill them when they learned of their conversion to Christianity seven months earlier.
Apostasy is a capital crime in Islamic law.
The Christian adult told an area pastor that he now believed the life of his own family is at risk and said he had lost everything.
"I started receiving threatening messages in my phone accusing me of converting the boys to Christianity, as well as housing them in my house without the parents' permission, but I did not take it very seriously," he said, according to Morning Star News.
The arsonists left threatening leaflets behind, warning: "Be informed that we are not yet finished with you. Expect more, worse things are on the way."
This man and the teen boys are now in hiding elsewhere.
Release International asked for prayers for the boys and the local Christians trying to help them.
Uganda did not actually make it onto Open Doors' World Watch list of the top 50 countries for Christian persecution last year or in 2014.
Nevertheless, Open Doors reports that Christian persecution as a result of Islamic extremism is on the rise. Uganda might appear on the 2016 list when it is published next year.
The Christian church is growing in Uganda but the charity has concerns about the "tabliqs", an evangelistic hard-line Muslim sect. Muslims have also positioned themselves strategically in key political posts as well as in finance, and sharia-compliant banking favours Muslims over Christians.
In particular, Open Doors says, pressure is put on converts to Christianity from a Muslim background and an armed force established by tabliqs has orchestrated a number of deadly attacks on civilians, mostly Christians. There are also many spontaneous violent attacks on Christians.
'Utter Devastation': New Zealand Reels Under Huge Earthquake
A powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake pummeled central New Zealand early on Monday, killing at least two people, damaging roads and buildings and setting off hundreds of strong aftershocks.
Emergency response teams flew by helicopter to the region at the epicentre of the tremor, which struck just after midnight some 91 km (57 miles) northeast of Christchurch in the South Island, amid reports of injuries and collapsed buildings.
"It's just utter devastation, I just don't know...that's months of work," New Zealand Prime Minister John Key told Civil Defence Minister Gerry Brownlee after flying over the coastal town of Kaikoura, according to Brownlee's Twitter account.
He described landslips in the area as "just horrendous". In a statement seen by Reuters, Key said of the likely damage bill: "You've got to believe it's in the billions of dollars to resolve."
Powerlines and telecommunications were down, with huge cracks in roads, land slips and other damage to infrastructure making it hard to reach the worst-affected areas.
A tsunami warning that led to mass evacuations after the original quake was downgraded after large swells hit New Zealand's capital Wellington, in the North Island, and Christchurch.
Wellington was a virtual ghost town with workers ordered to stay away while the city council assessed the risk to buildings, several of which were damaged by the tremor. There were concerns that loose glass and masonry could be dislodged by severe weather hitting the capital, with 140 km per hour (85 mph) winds forecast.
Hundreds of aftershocks, the strongest a 6.2 quake at about 1.45 p.m. local time (0045 GMT), rattled the South Pacific country, fraying nerves in an area where memories of a deadly 2011 quake are still fresh.
Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand's ruggedly beautiful South Island, is still recovering from the 6.3 quake in 2011 that killed 185 people.
New Zealand's Civil Defence declared a state of emergency for the Kaikoura region, centred on a tourist town about 150 km (90 miles) northeast of Christchurch, soon after Monday's large aftershock.
Kaikoura, a popular spot for whale watching, appeared to have borne the brunt of the quake.
"Our immediate priority is ensuring delivery of clean water, food and other essentials to the residents of Kaikoura and the estimated 1,000 tourists in the town," Brownlee said.
The Navy's multi-role vessel HMNZS Canterbury was heading to the area, he said.
Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) said a 20-person rescue team and two sniffer dogs had arrived in the town. A second team was on standby in Christchurch, USAR said in a statement.
Police in the area around Christchurch reported 19 burglaries of homes and commercial properties after the quake as residents headed for higher ground.
"It is extremely disappointing that at a time when people are facing such a traumatic event and communities are coming together to support one another, there are others who are only interested in taking advantage," Canterbury District Commander Superintendent John Price said in a statement.
Twin quakes
Hours after the quake, officials said a slip dam caused by the quakes that had blocked the Clarence River north of the town had breached, sending a wall of water downstream.
A group of kayakers missing on the river was later reported safe.
New Zealand's Geonet measured Monday's first quake at magnitude 7.5, while the US Geological Survey put it at 7.8. The quakes and aftershocks rattled buildings and woke residents across the country, hundreds of kilometres from the epicentre
.
Geonet said four faults had ruptured, with one at the coast appearing to have slipped as much as 10 metres (33 feet).
Government research unit GNS Science said the overnight tremor appeared to have been two simultaneous quakes which together lasted more than two minutes.
New Zealand lies in the seismically active "Ring of Fire", a 40,000 km arc of volcanoes and oceanic trenches that partly encircles the Pacific Ocean. Around 90 per cent of the world's earthquakes occur within this region.
Stock exchange operator NZX Ltd said markets traded normally, although many offices in the capital were closed. The New Zealand dollar initially fell to a one-month low before mostly recovering.
Fonterra, the world's biggest dairy exporter, said some its farms were without power and would probably have to dump milk.
Prime Minister Key postponed a trip to Argentina, where he had planned to hold a series of trade meetings ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders' summit in Peru this week, as he met disaster officials.
At least one of those killed was found in a house in Kaikoura that "collapsed like a stack of cards", Kaikoura Hospital's Dr Christopher Henry told Fairfax media. Two other people were pulled alive from the same building.
New Zealand media reported one of the pilots taking rescuers to the area was Richie McCaw, the recently retired captain of New Zealand's world champion All Blacks rugby team.
"At one point, the railway was way out over the sea it had been pushed out by (land) slips. It would not have been a nice place to be at midnight last night," McCaw told the New Zealand Herald after helping fly the USAR team to Kaikoura.
Who Is Stephen Bannon? Trump Appoints Far-Right Controversialist As Head Of Strategy
When Barack Obama welcomed a somewhat startled looking Donald Trump to the White House last Thursday, and the two men exchanged words of improbable mutual respect, those who fear the worst out of a Trump administration momentarily appeared to have reason for respite. For it seemed, then and when Trump in the hours that followed indicated that he would retain elements of Obama's healthcare programme, that the President-elect was being tamed.
But any doubts over whether he intends to implement the most extreme, politically incorrect and, frankly sexist agenda set out by any presidential candidate have been laid to rest with the appointment of Stephen Bannon as his head of strategy. The move marks the elevation of the burgeoning 'alt-right' movement which among other agendas is vociferously opposed to multiculturalism into the White House itself.
So who is this man, appointed alongside and 'equal' to the chairman of the Republican National Committee, Reince Priebus, who was made chief of staff?
Bannon is the former head of Breitbart News, who stood down to work on Trump's campaign. The notorious outlet was launched in 2007 with the aim of being "unapologetically pro-freedom and pro-Israel". A hint at its real agenda comes with the following examples of misogynistic headlines highlighted by @EverydaySexism:
Just a tiny selection of the articles published under Trump's new chief strategist Stephen Bannon pic.twitter.com/jYg4nqUGuP EverydaySexism (@EverydaySexism) November 14, 2016
The Anti-Defamation League, which campaigns to fight "anti-Semitism and all forms of bigotry", has condemned Bannon's appointment, describing the alt-right movement supported by Breitbart as "a loose-knit group of white nationalists, unabashed anti-Semites and racists".
Meanwhile, Bannon's elevation has provoked criticism from Trump's own party. John Weaver, a Republican political consultant, said: "The racist, fascist extreme right is represented footsteps from the Oval Office. Be very vigilant America."
And the former Barack Obama adviser Dan Pfeiffer noted: "Nation exhales because white nationalist only gets second most influential job in White House."
Michael Wear, Obama's former faith adviser, told Christian Today: "I worked in The White House, so the idea of having Stephen Bannon in an office anywhere near that building, not to mention right next to the Oval Office, is beyond troubling. Trump says he wants to unite the country, but we've learned he says a lot of things. This action--his hiring of this man who has been so corrosive to our politics and whose views on various communities in America are a disgraceis another reminder that we the American people need to unite not on the terms of our politicians, but of basic human dignity under God."
In August Bannon was made manager of Trump's campaign, in a move which was celebrated by David Duke, the former KKK leader.
"Many former employees of Breitbart News are afraid of Steve Bannon," said Ben Shapiro, a former editor-at-large of Breitbart, who resigned in disgust at the site's bias in coverage of the race between Hillary Clinton and Trump.
"He is a vindictive, nasty figure, infamous for verbally abusing supposed friends and threatening enemies. Bannon is a smarter version of Trump: he's an aggressive self-promoter who name-drops to heighten his profile and woo bigger names, and then uses those bigger names as stepping stools to his next destination."
Shapiro wrote in August: "Trump may be his final destination. Or it may not. He will attempt to ruin anyone who impedes his unending ambition."
Even his allies accept Bannon is, at the very least, a controversialist. "If there's an explosion or a fire somewhere," said Matthew Boyle, political editor for Breitbart, "Steve's probably nearby with some matches."
A former Goldman Sachs banker, Bannon, 62, gained a Masters in National Security Studies and an MBA from Harvard Business School, and was an officer in the US Navy before joining Breitbart, where he hosted a radio show on its SiriusXM Patriot channel.
Born into a poor family in Norfolk, Virginia, Bannon claims that his background is that of a natural Democrat. He grew up in sight of the naval yard and signed up after college before spending four years at sea aboard a destroyer. Deployed to the Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf in 1979, he found his faith in the then president, Jimmy Carter, fading, according to the Telegraph.
Bannon left the navy and instead studied for an MBA at Harvard Business School before winning a job at Goldman Sachs, one that he loved by all accounts.
But in 1990 he set up his own firm, Bannon & Co., with a couple of former colleagues. The company made him rich, and he moved into Hollywood productions, becoming an executive producer of films including Anthony Hopkins's 1999 Oscar-nominated Titus.
Bannon began making his own films, specialising in stories inspired by the attacks of September 11, 2001 and his own disillusionment with President Carter when he was a sailor.
"I come from a blue-collar, Irish Catholic, pro-Kennedy, pro-union family of Democrats," Bannon told Bloomberg. "I wasn't political until I got into the service and saw how badly Jimmy Carter f----- things up. I became a huge Reagan admirer. Still am. But what turned me against the whole establishment was coming back from running companies in Asia in 2008 and seeing that Bush had f----- up as badly as Carter. The whole country was a disaster."
In 2004, he made a pro-Reagan documentary called In the Face of Evil, which was celebrated by the American right, and he appeared regularly on the Murdoch-owned Fox News channel.
Bannon also produced a documentary about Sarah Palin, who is tipped for a role in Trump's administration, and made films in praise of the 'Tea Party' movement.
Bannon took over the Breitbart website after its founder Andrew Breitbart died of a heart attack in March 2012, aged 43.
The controversial site which attracts 21 million hits a month is described by Bloomberg as "a haven for people who think Fox News is too polite and restrained."
Bannon has been married three times and his second wife, Mary Louise Piccard, accused him of domestic abuse and anti-Semitism.
Piccard said in a 2007 court declaration that Bannon did not want their twin daughters attending the Archer School for Girls in Los Angeles because many Jewish students were enrolled at the school.
"The biggest problem he had with Archer is the number of Jews that attend," Piccard said in a statement to the court. "He said that he doesn't like the way they raise their kids to be 'whiny brats' and that he didn't want the girls going to school with Jews."
Bannon denied the allegations. But that such claims could be made about a man who is to become a senior White House staffer has filled many in Washington and the wider world with horror.
If there were people who were afraid of what a Trump administration could bring to America last Wednesday, they arguably have every reason to be even more so today.
Why Trump's Election Made Me Want To Stop Calling Myself A Christian
I spent a considerable amount of time last Wednesday considering whether I should stop calling myself a Christian. That's not because I stopped believing in Jesus, but rather because I do believe in him.
As people told me not to worry because ultimately 'God's in control', evangelical leaders laid out their own personal defences of arguably the most immoral man the US has ever elected as President, and those close to me who don't believe in Jesus asked: 'How could Christians have voted Trump in?' I started to feel seriously out of place in my own faith.
I can understand some of the reasons evangelical leaders voted for Trump, and I know many have their own moral framework that would make it difficult to vote Democrat, but what stunned me to silence was the unashamed belief and assertion that Trump's victory in the US elections was undoubtedly all in God's plan. No 'flawed candidate' rhetoric, no language of tough choices and imperfections on both sides, but unapologetic endorsement backed up with pick-and-mix theology.
I fail to understand how leaders who so often call for a return to morality, truth, purity, and faithful marriages can so publicly endorse a man who boasts of sexually harassing women, displays racist attitudes in front of crowds of thousands and so blatantly lies. At best it comes across as unbearably naive. At worst, arrogant and hypocritical.
Why would I want in any way to associate with these hugely influential faith leaders who undoubtedly helped secure Trump's seat in the White House? Do we even profess the same faith when our differences feel like a chasm the size of the Grand Canyon?
I began to wonder whether I should start calling myself 'A follower of the way' or a follower of Jesus, as Shane Claiborne advocates. Claiborne argues for Red Letter Christianity which seeks to live by the words of Jesus. Surely one who does this cannot ignore his mission statement, the Sermon on the Mount when he blesses the meek, the poor and the peacemaker qualities I have yet to see Trump exhibit.
I don't want people to think that I'm part of the merry clan who supported a misogynistic, xenophobic, climate change denier into power. Those values are not my values, they are not what I read when I look in the Bible. Looking out at the world, deeply divided, fearful, disconnected and angry; they are not the values I think are going to heal us.
But in my tussle with this I recognise that if I make a choice to disassociate with Christianity, I am in fact creating more divides. It's also inaccurate to state that all Christians in America voted for Trump it was white evangelicals who overwhelming supported him. Certainly many are distraught at his victory and I encourage them to raise their voices. Jesus prays that the Church will be one and if any form of unity is to come we'll have to pull together rather than apart.
But, right now I need to let the rage burn through me, and the grief pour out before hope can start to live again and I seek to build bridges. This is too important to let it wash over us with platitudes and dodgy theology. It's time to dig into what Jesus said and pray he shows us the way to live according to his words.
The 12th Annual Aggie 100, honoring the fastest-growing businesses led or owned by Aggies, included 34 Houston-area businesses, the Mays Business School's Center for New Ventures and Entrepreneurship at Texas A&M University announced Friday night.
The fastest growing company was Lone Star Bloom with revenue growth of 229 percent in 2015. The Summit Award recipient, presented to the company with the highest three-year average revenue, was awarded to Genesis Networks Enterprises.
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Leave it to young writers to pull on your heart strings.
That's exactly what happened at the eighth annual Writers in the Schools' "Free to Be" Gala recently held at The Astorian.
Guests were moved to tears as an eight-year-old Aaron Crossland shared a story about how writing helped him during dialysis. His poem was about a brave lion named Michelle Obama. Another child talked about overcoming shyness, and yet another talked about how WITS has helped him connect with other young writers.
The event was chaired by Mitra Woody and Ryan Leach with honorary chair Lisa Helfman and auction chair Beth Bernal and it honored Sara Speer Selber, founder of The Project Management Team. It had more attendance, silent auction donations, and funding than ever in organizational history, raising nearly $200,000, which will help the organization send writers into schools and community classrooms to reach an additional 3,740 children.
Acclaimed poet, Outspoken Bean, emceed the night, beginning the program with an original poem. Houston First Daughter, Ashley Turner, took the stage to announce Fareena Arefeen, 17, as City of Houston's second Youth Poet Laureate, an initiative led by WITS, the City of Houston, and the Houston Public Library. Arefeen, a student at the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts and also a first-generation American, shared a poem about her background and love of writing.
"Poetry wasn't just the esoteric words in my school textbooks; it was alive and real and right there in the apartment building where I lived, on the sidewalks where I walked, and at the gas station where my mom worked," Arafeen said. "Poetry didn't just belong to people who didn't look or sound like me; it belonged to me."
The silent auction included artwork inspired by student poems, commissioned flash-fiction, and art by Nicola Parente, Marlo Saucedo and other local creatives.
Guests included: Dr. Rhea Brown Lawson, Ryan Leach, Beth Bernal, Jacqueline S. Martin, Jack Sweeney, Joan and Stanford Alexander, F. Xavier Pena, Long Chu, Hon. Karla Cisneros, Hon. Mike Knox, Hon. Steve Le., Hon. Sue Lovell, Stephanie Larsen, Rhonda Skillern-Jones, Poet Laureate Robin Davidson, Laura Bhatia, Grace Rodriguez, Barry Mandel and Scott Sawyer, Esther Perrine, Meredith Vela, Josephine and Bill Rice, Karen McKibben and Bill Morris, and Meredith Vela
The African Children's Choir will perform at the Ecclesia Church at 1100 Elder St. in central Houston for four performances.
The first performance will be Saturday, Dec. 17, at 5 p.m. The other three performances will take place on Sunday, Dec. 18, at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.
When a state judge in Glasgow sentenced a man to just 60 days in jail for raping his 12-year-old daughter, Montanans learned about one loophole in our sex crime laws.
Less than a month after that lenient sentence was handed down, a panel created by the Legislature voted to support legislation in 2017 to close that loophole. Gov. Steve Bullock agreed that the no-prison sentence is unacceptable for this horrific crime. So that part of criminal law will be revised to provide more just and consistent sentences for this crime against young children.
But Montanas sexual assault statutes havent been comprehensively updated for many years, and there are other inconsistencies and gaps. Some statutes dont fit situations Montanans encounter in 2016. Thats why the 2015 Legislature approved an interim study of Montanas sexual assault laws.
The joint resolution, introduced by Sen. Diane Sands, D-Missoula, cited national statistics that nearly one in five women and one in 71 men have been raped in their lifetime. The statistics are even worse for Native Americans.
The study by the Interim Committee on Law and Justice was undertaken with support from Republican Attorney General Tim Fox and the Montana University System, which has been under scrutiny in recent years for policies to prevent and respond to sexual violence.
The committee voted to propose these seven bills:
LC272, sponsored by Sands, revises the definition of consent in the crime of sexual intercourse without consent so that proof of force is no longer required. Instead, consent is defined in a positive fashion requiring words or overt actions indicating freely given agreement. The revised definition is similar to the Uniform Code of Military Justice and the definition of consent used in Wisconsin. This bill also would create a new crime of aggravated sexual intercourse without consent, requiring proof of force and more significant penalties.
LC275, also sponsored by Sands, extends the statute of limitation for prosecuting sex crimes with victims who are under the age of 18 to 20 years after the victim reaches the age of 18.
LC273, sponsored by Sue Malek, D-Missoula, provides a maximum penalty of five years in prison for sexual intercourse without consent when: 1. An offender is 18 years or younger and the victim is 14 years or older, 2. The offense was a first offense, and 3. No force was used. The bill would also drop the requirement that an 18-year-old convicted of sexual intercourse without consent wouldnt have to register as a sex offender if the victim was age 14 or older and no force was used.
LC277, also sponsored by Malek, would allow for termination of parental rights by court order if the parent was convicted or if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the parent committed an act of sexual assault, rape or incest and the child was born as the result of that act.
LC276, sponsored by senator and former District Judge Nels Swandal, R-Wilsall, would revise the Youth Court Act so that sexual offenders who are juveniles when convicted do not have to register as sex offenders, unless the court finds that registration is necessary to protect the public.
LC274, sponsored by Rep. Ellie Hill, D-Missoula, adds the offense of distributing a visual or print medium of a person who is identifiable, engaged in sexual conduct, and who has not consented to the creation of that image.
LC303, sponsored by Rep. Jenny Eck, D-Helena, revises incest law so that consent isnt a defense if the victim is under 18 years old.
These committee bills represent a good faith effort to provide justice for victims and the accused. The relative ages of the victim and assailant should be taken into account. Victims shouldnt have to prove they fought their attackers. Rehabilitation of offenders should be addressed in ways that keep victim and community safety as the highest priorities.
The Law and Justice Interim Committee has drafted sex offense bills that deserve full consideration and debate when the 2017 session convenes.
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Memorial-area resident recognized at Art of the Pastel 2016
Caroline Ratliff of Memorial received fifth place for her painting "Georgia on My Mind" in the Art of the Pastel 2016 at The Gallery at Round Top.
She received a $100 cash award and a $100 gift certificate for Richeson Art Materials at the Oct. 29 artists reception of the Pastel Society of Southeast Texas.
Internationally known Cheng Lian was the awards judge for Art of the Pastel 2016. A signature member of the Oil Painters of America, Lian is an Inaugural Signature Member of the California Plein Air Painters, a Master Signature Artist of the National Oil and Acrylic Painters Society and is active in additional art societies.
Art of the Pastel 2017 is set for April 18-May 21 at the Center for Arts & Sciences, 400 College Boulevard in Clute. Artists, both PSST members and non-members, can submit artwork created with soft, dry pastels. Submission guidelines, deadlines, entry specifications and more details to be announced. Visit www.pastelsocietyofsoutheasttexas.org for information and to join the group. Member dues are $35 per year.
The Pastel Society of Southeast Texas is a nonprofit comprised of artists who promote the beauty of soft pastel as a fine-art medium and work to educate artists and the public about pastels with demonstrations and workshops. The PSST is a member of the International Association of Pastel Societies.
Service King opens in southwest Houston
Service King Collision Repair Centers announced on Nov. 7 the opening of its 85th Texas location with a new repair center in southwest Houston.
The center is located at 13525 Alief Clodine Road near the Westpark Tollway. The organization now operates 22 repair centers in the market with 306 locations in 23 states across the United States. All Service King Collision Repair Centers provide motorists with certified repairs and lifetime warranties honored at any location.
"The Service King family is thrilled to continue providing the Houston area with superior collision repair service," said Justin Regan, Service King's Houston Market vice president. "It is important to our team to continue providing our valued customers and insurance partners with convenient options for high-quality, dependable service. The Houston area has proved a great fit for Service King and we're confident this repair center will serve as a prudent step in our growth plans."
The 13,500-square-foot location has the capacity to repair 150-175 vehicles per month. Service King, with home office operations in North Texas, first expanded its family of repair centers to the Houston area in 2008.
Service King is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2016. For more information on the organization and to view a full list of repair centers, visit the company online at www.ServiceKing.com and follow Service King on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Two Harris health nurses listed among Top 20 in Houston
Two Harris Health System nurses are among the 20 Outstanding Nurses for 2016, an award given by the Texas Nurses Association, District 9. The pair joins honorees nominated by peers and coworkers as exemplary registered nurses from greater Houston.
Matthew Schlueter, chief nursing officer, Ben Taub and Quentin Mease hospitals, and Rosalyn Jones-Waters, nursing clinical manager, Oncology, Ben Taub Hospital, were recognized during a Nov. 10 dinner and award ceremony.
Schlueter, RN, MSN, MBA, NE-BC, PHN, is enrolled in a PhD program in nursing science. During his tenure at Ben Taub Hospital, his team has achieved designation as a Baby-Friendly Hospital, accreditations for Chest Pain Center and Comprehensive Stroke Center and Level I Trauma re-verification by the American College of Surgeons.
Schlueter, a Heights resident, also has led Quentin Meese Hospital staff to achieve Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities designation, one of the most prestigious recognitions for a rehabilitation and physical medicine service. His focus is on maximizing safety and enhancing the quality of care provided and to create a positive environment for patients and staff. He serves as a preceptor for students and mentors staff on the importance of achieving high quality healthcare measures.
Jones-Waters, BSN, RN, OCN, received her bachelor of science in nursing from Lamar University. She is an oncology certified nurse with more than 25 years of experience in roles ranging from staff nurse, oncology quality coordinator to nurse manager. In her current role, she advocates for quality patient care, mentors and empowers staff, and encourages professional development through ongoing education, participation in shared governance and involvement in professional nursing organizations.
Jones-Waters, a Katy resident, serves on several interdisciplinary committees including the radiation safety committee, fall prevention workgroup, and Beacon implementation. Her unit was the recipient of a Harris Health Sapphire Luminary Award for Nursing Quality in 2016. She is a member of Texas Nursing Association and the Oncology Nursing Society- formerly serving as Houston chapter president and currently serves as chair of community outreach.
Harris Health employs 2,400 registered nurses throughout its network of hospitals, health centers and specialty facilities, a majority in direct patient care roles. Of the total number, 1,146 RNs work at Ben Taub Hospital, 667 RNs work at Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital and 353 in Ambulatory Care Services.
Nancy Sarnoff
Has Houston finally shed its reputation as a tear-down city that cares little about its oldest buildings?
For the first time in 70 years, the National Trust for Historic Preservation's has chosen Houston as the host city for its annual conference, a gathering of more than 1,200 leaders in historic preservation from around the country.
The Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce is presenting computer assistance through its member, Innovative Computer Solutions, a business welcomed into the Chamber with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Nov. 9.
Innovative Computer Solutions is owned by Jeremy Ewing, who has been a member of the chamber for several months. His business has been serving the Cleveland area for nearly two years.
"I've just always had a passion for it [working with computers]," said Ewing.
Before starting his own business, Ewing said he worked with systems for Champion Energey and the National Security Agency. The company provides services that include handling the technology, data security, IT solutions, security solutions and more.
These services can be applied to computer repair, virus removal, data backup and recovery, troubleshooting, web hosting and other areas.
"Most of it is the computers and networking," said Ewing.
The services of Innovative Computer Solutions does not only apply to computers and networking. Ewing can also repair mobile devices and tablets.
"There was a large request for mobile devices and tablets," said Ewing.
Ewing can also help with security installations and cameras. He is also willing to work outside of Cleveland and has traveled as far as Lufkin for his work.
Chamber Chief Operating Officer Jim Carson also complimented Ewing on his work and how it has benefited the Chamber.
"He's been in to service our computers a few times," said Carson.
To contact Innovative Computer Solutions call 832-543-3559 or email sales@innovativecomputersolutions.net. Visit their website at http://www.innovativecomputersolutions.net.
Think you know most 11 and 12-year olds? Take another look.
"Most people think when you get a group of 11 and 12-year-old kids together it will be chaos. People may expect gossip, silliness, and a general lack of focus. At Austin Memorial Library, that does not seem to be the case," said Mary Cohn, head librarian.
On Tuesday afternoons, you will find their Tween Scene group hard at work. Sometimes they are working on the effects of gossip, or discussing how other kids their age are changing their world and how they can too, but this month you will find them putting together donations for Veterans.
"In honor of Veterans Day, the Tweens decided they wanted to do something for veterans still in need. After brainstorming, they decided to ask for donations to take to a local VA Hospital. After a bit of research and a suggestion from a helpful Veteran, the kids picked the Fisher House Foundation as the recipient of their donations," Cohn said. "The Fisher House Foundation is exactly what you think it is -- a house that veterans and their families can stay in when they must visit the VA Hospital for longer than previously thought."
The Fisher House provides lodging at no cost for the Veterans who lodged there and try to provide as much as they can to make an unexpected or even expected visit as pleasant as possible. Austin Memorial Library's Tweens are collecting toiletries to help with that goal. The Tweens will be accepting all toiletries till end of November at which point they will be packaged and sent to the nearest Fisher House along with letters and cards thanking out Veterans for all the sacrifices they made. So, swing on by, drop off some items, and maybe if you are lucky, you can meet one the incredible Tweens who are already learning the value of community service.
Austin Memorial Library is located at 220 Bonham St., Cleveland. For more information, call 281-592-3920.
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Students of James Street Elementary showed their patriotism on Veterans Day when they gathered in the cafeteria to hear presentations from veterans, members of Coldspring-Oakhurst CISD's JROTC students and many more.
The program began with James Street Elementary teacher Laura Manshack welcoming the students and reminding them of the importance of Veterans Day.
"We're here today to honor heroes," she said.
Manshack took a moment to thank any veterans gathered in the cafeteria and asked them to stand so they could be recognized. She then proceeded to introduce their guest speaker named George Black.
Black is a retired member of the United States Marine Corps who served in the Vietnam War. He told the gathered students stories of his time in the military and his desire to be a radar technician as well as the training required by the military.
"It's tough," he said. "They put you through all kinds of misery."
A radar technician performs repairs and radio reprogramming while also using preventative maintenance to help keep equipment in top shape.
Black describes his experiences as being harsh, especially in boot camp. However, he stated that these experiences are not without their positive qualities.
"It does teach you responsibility and individual respect for yourself," he said.
Some of the students asked questions for Black to answer. The final question came from a girl who asked him why the United States became involved in the Vietnam War. Black responded with a simple, but effective, answer.
"People misbehave is all I can tell you," he said.
Coldspring-Oakhurst CISD JROTC Major Azzaam Rahmaan spoke after Black, describing how his experience as a veteran left him with big shoes to fill. He also addressed that Veterans Day is not only a time to honor veterans of wars past.
"We want to definitely remember the folks that are still in harm's way," he said.
Cadet Major Sara Coe spoke after her commanding officer and gave a presentation in regards to POWs and MIAs. She pointed to a table located behind her on the auditorium stage. The table looked as if it were about to be used for a small dinner for four people.
"This table occupies the highest place of honor and embodies a great deal of symbolism," said Coe.
Those present within the room bowed their heads in a moment of silence for POWs and MIAs not able to return home to their loved ones.
"They are not with us today," said Coe. "Their chairs are empty but saved symbolically for their anticipated return one day. Let us remember."
Four other cadets placed hats representing the United States Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps in remembrance of POWs and MIAs of each branch. Coe continued to explain that each item on the table represents something different in regards to remembering those who are not forgotten.
The white tablecloth symbolizes purity of the intention to answer the call to arms. The candle represents the weakness of a prisoner standing alone against his oppressors. The black ribbon attached to the candle serves as a reminder of those who will not be coming home.
These are three of many items seen on the table that serve as reminders for the sacrifices given in the line of duty.
Coe proceeded to discuss the events surrounding World War I, which was known as "The Great War." World War I ended on June 28, 1919 with the Treaty of Versailles. The fighting ended seven months earlier on Nov. 18, 1918, on the eleventh hour.
"For that reason, Nov. 18, 1918 is generally regarded as the end of 'the war to end all wars,'" said Coe.
The first Veterans Day was observed on Oct. 25, 1971. However, President Gerald Ford signed a law that changed the date to Nov. 11 no matter what day of the week it falls on.
"The restoration of the observance of Veterans Day to Nov. 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day," said Coe. "A celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country, willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good."
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Students of Shepherd Middle School held a special presentation on the campus gymnasium for Veterans Day, where they were surprised to learn how much both world wars impacted famous cartoonist Walt Disney.
The program started with two students, Garret Cone and Austin Atchley, explaining how and why the United States celebrates Veterans Day.
"They risk their lives so that we can be here talking about this today," said Atchley.
The two students were followed by one of their peers named Jesse Beverly who chose to read a poem in front of other students and veteran guests.
"A veteran knows life is precious," he said. "Old memories make him cry."
Beverly concluded his poem by explaining how it's difficult to know how to pay back a veteran for their service and sacrifice.
"Except perhaps to honor them with thanks on Veterans Day," he said.
A fourth student named Christian Castillo spoke after Beverly and described the characteristics of a veteran.
"It takes courage for a soldier to risk life and limb," he said.
Castillo then introduced the program's guest speaker, veteran Dale Everitt.
Everitt began his speech by discussing the origins of Veterans Day and its connection to the end of World War I, which many consider to have ended on Nov. 11, 1918 seven months before the signing of the Treaty of Versailles. He encouraged students to give thanks to veterans.
"Any of your family that's ever served is a veteran," said Everitt.
Everitt continued by noting how veterans have served to protect the rights granted to United States citizens.
"Remember on Veterans Day, it's the veterans who protected your freedoms in the Constitution," he said.
World War I is considered to be the war to end all wars, but World War II came 21 years later. Everitt spoke about Walt Disney, who fought in World War I and how he influenced a call to arms in World War II.
"He started drawing cartoons and one of his first ones was Steamboat Willie," said Everitt.
Steamboat Willie is most famous for serving as the debut of famous Disney character Mickey Mouse.
Germany eventually censored Mickey Mouse due to one animated short titled The Barnyard Battle featuring Mickey Mouse battling against German-theme cats.
Disney decided to use Mickey Mouse as a propaganda tool during World War II.
"He took Mickey Mouse, the cartoon character, and started encouraging Americans to be strong," said Everitt. "Mickey giving it all for the troops."
Mickey Mouse and other popular Disney characters were shown in this regard serving the military to fight back against the Axis powers in World War II.
The Nazi regime in Germany also propagandized against Mickey Mouse and Disney. Disney's work soon became banned under their regime as well as that of Benito Mussolini's regime in Italy.
"The tragedy used Mickey to help win the war," said Everitt.
Everitt concluded that veterans defend the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. He encouraged students to understand and appreciate this because of the rights the Constitution and the Bill of Rights gives.
"Cherish the Bill of Rights," said Everitt. "It's your future."
Although his speech was done, Everitt also presented a project he is working on in regards to another fallen veteran named Robert Charles Davis. Davis lived in San Jacinto County.
Everitt says the project entails finding a picture of Davis to be given to a museum in Washington, D.C.
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A group of youth students at Coldspring United Methodist Church got all of their questions answered about the military on Nov. 9 as the congregation hosted a panel of seven veterans from different branches of the United States military.
The Coldspring United Methodist Church youth group, known as the Matches, gathers at the church in fellowship every Wednesday night. With Veterans Day falling on the same week, the Matches were given a chance to ask seven veterans different questions about their experiences.
The program is normally done one-on-one with the Matches individually interviewing the veterans. They changed it up this year with each member of the Matches asking a single question for the veterans to answer as a group.
"This is the first time they did a panel," said veteran and church member Patrick Clark.
Many questions were basic, such as what motivated the veterans to join the military. For Philip McCulloch Sr., a former member of the United States Marine Corp, reasons can vary from protecting one's country or flag to a number of different things.
"For me personally, [it was] family," he said.
World War II veteran and former United States Air Force member Richard Lapp spoke of the posters used in a campaign to encourage men to sign up in the military to fight against the Axis powers. The posters in question depict Uncle Sam drawn to look as if he's pointing at the person looking at the poster and telling them he needs them to join the military.
"Uncle Sam needed me," said Lapp.
Other questions focused on specific and sometimes humorous moments in a veteran's time in the military, such as when Clark described an incident where a recruit had a slight mishap with a grenade.
"The kid pulls the pin, drops the grenade and throws the pin," said Clark.
The recruit narrowly escaped the explosion as a training officer grabbed the grenade and threw it in time while shielding the recruit.
Army veteran Frank Closs recalled an incident driving an APC when another soldier challenged him to a race to the top of a hill. Closs and the other soldier sped towards the top, but Closs realized something wasn't quite right.
"Just as we got to the top of the hill, he hit the brakes," he said.
The hill happened to have a steep drop, which Closs also narrowly avoided.
Veterans often receive awards and commendations for their service and acts of bravery. Such is the case with the veterans on the panel, including Eugene Pavey who served in the Army during the Vietnam War.
"I got a Bronze Star for my service in Vietnam," he said.
Another question for the veterans asked what careers they pursued after their service ended. While some went on to find jobs outside of the military, Clark did not start out that way.
"As soon as I got out I went into law enforcement," he said.
Clark's time in law enforcement had him working on military installations. He described the experience as his inability to go cold turkey when leaving the military.
Many of the final questions asked about how military life impacted the different veterans. Navy veteran John Davis responded by noting how it helps you find a bit of humility and understanding of what you know and don't know about life.
"It really prepares you for life," he said.
The veterans thanked the Matches with McCulloch telling the children that serving the nation brings with it great honor.
"It's a blank check that you write to your country," he said.
Local celebrity chef and restaurateur Bryan Caswell has announced that he will no longer be associated with two forthcoming dining concepts that are being backed by Houston Astros owner Jim Crane.
In January it was originally announced that Caswell would partner with Crane and fellow restaurateur Bill Floyd to open dual concept Kristalla and Osso.
Kristalla will be a casual Italian trattoria, while Osso will focus on Northern Italian fare. The original monikers were Brocca and II Panchina.
"The Italian places have been going for a little bit, and I have the utmost respect for Mr. Crane. That place is bigger than me, for sure. I was a cog in a machine, because I love the Astros," Caswell told CultureMap, adding that this was a mutual decision. "Mr. Crane is a great guy. It just made sense, because there are other things I want to do."
NAME CHANGER: New names for two downtown Italian restaurants
He told that outlet that he is forming a new company, Bryan Caswell Concepts. He also explains that he will be focusing on his Midtown Gulf seafood restaurant Reef, which he launched in 2007 with Floyd as his business partner. The two are also joint owners of Jackson Street BBQ at 209 Jackson Street. Caswell separately owns Tex-Mex restaurant El Real at 1201 Westheimer and Little Bigs and 4621 Montrose.
As for Floyd, he will remain the management partner at Kristalla and Osso.
A spokesperson for Crane told CultureMap that the Astros owner is determined to launch a "world-class Italian restaurant in downtown Houston," which would require a dedicated executive chef. "Bryan is a wonderful chef and currently has many projects going on with his new brand that would not allow him to devote the amount of time desired for this project," the representative told that outlet.
EASY ENTERTAINING: Thanksgiving to-go dishes from Houston restaurants and bakeries
The Italian fare establishments garnered much fanfare because of the high-profile names with which it's associated, as well as their ideal location at a new luxury apartment tower, 500 Crawford, which is situated across from Minute Maid Stadium. The two restaurants will anchor the new building and are on track to open in December.
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The faces of students could be seen gazing intently from the interior balcony overlooking the Humble High School foyer where Principal Donna Ulrich, JROTC instructor LTC Robert Rohm and JROTC cadets placed a wreath of red, white and blue flowers in front of a replica of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Friday, Nov. 11.
The placing of the wreath marked the start of Humble High School's annual Wildcat Salute to Veterans during which students, staff, community residents and leaders convene at the school to honor United States veterans in observance of Veterans Day.
The ceremony involved musical performances by the Humble High School A Cappella Choir and Band students; speeches by honored guests; and presentations of appreciation from local, state and national leaders.
Among those who attended was United States Congressman Ted Poe.
"As a veteran of the United States Airforce, I appreciate Humble High School doing this Veterans Day ceremony every year," Poe said.
In honor of Wildcat Salute to Veterans 2016, Poe presented Humble High School with a proclamation commending their commitment to honor the nation's veterans.
"Our veterans are the safeguards of liberty, freedom and a cut above the rest," Poe said. "We will always support them."
State Representative Dan Huberty also made a special presentation in honor of the Wildcat Salute to Veterans.
"This was an important week in our country," Huberty said. "We have a peaceful transition of power, even though you'll have people protesting and asserting their First Amendment rights, the reason you're able to do that is because of the veterans who have fought for freedom in our country."
On behalf of the state of Texas, Huberty presented the high school with a state flag that had been flown over the capital in honor of the Veterans Day celebration.
The city of Humble Mayor Merle Aaron echoed Huberty's sentiment, thanking the nation's veterans for protecting freedoms by serving the county.
He read from the last part of a proclamation declaring Nov. 11, 2016 "Wildcat Salute to Veterans Day."
"In times of war and peace alike, our veterans have served with courage an distinction in the face of tremendous adversity; demonstrating an unfaltering commitment to America and our people," Aaron said. "Many have made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve this country that not only we love, but they love even more that they would give the greatest sacrifice a person can give."
One of the event guest speakers was Chief Master Sergeant Retired Danny Shine who is currently the emergency management coordinator for the Michael E DeBakery VA Medical Center. In his speech, he called on students to use Veterans Day as an inspiration to show reverence and honor in their daily activities.
"Students, you have an opportunity to show reverence," Shine said. "Every day you have an opportunity to do what you want to do, say what you want to say, go where you want to go, be who you want to be and that has been provided to you by our veterans; by those who served.
"Remember to show reverencein the way you go about your business. Give your best in everything you do: impacting your community, serving others, living honorable and living with respect. That is what we need today."
As an Humble High School tradition, a visitor at the event was chosen to be honored with a presentation of the Humble High School Challenge Coin. This year, Humble's own Lieutenant Tom Morgan was chosen as the honoree.
Morgan joined the U.S. Marines at the age of 21 years old and served in World War II and the Korean War. At 96 years old, he is now the oldest living lawman not only in the state of Texas, but in the entire United States. He is currently with the Harris County Sheriff's Department.
Stacey Hamlet, International Baccalaureate CAS Coordinator at Humble High School, also surprised LTC Rohm with a special acknowledgment in honor of his approaching retirement from Humble ISD in December.
Humble High School junior Zaykeese Riley served as an event speaker, relaying the wisdom imparted to him by his grandmother who had served in the U.S. Army.
"Not all shots are fire with weapons," Riley said. "What I truly believe she was trying to teach (me) was that the weapons that win battles and wars aren't the bullets fired by rifles, not the missiles from planes or the torpedoes from submarines; they are the hearts and souls of our soldiers and citizens which they protect.
"It is my wish that each and every veteran in this room knows that your sacrifice does not go unnoticed; to show you that my generation has not forgotten you; to assure America's veterans that we will always be here to love and support you because you loved and supported us even when you didn't have to."
After the ceremony, students, staff and community members joined veterans for a complimentary breakfast.
Hamlet praised the students of Humble High School for living up to Shine's call to show reverence.
"I'm proud to be a Wildcat today," Hamlet said. "As I looked around the room I saw students not only doing what they're supposed to, but I did see reverence today. When I looked around the room, I saw students not just paying attention, but taking what was said to heart."
For more information about Humble High School visit http://www.humbleisd.net/Page/19967.
The common goal of providing food to those in need brings together Katy-area churches as they join with the faith-based nonprofit Feed the Hunger Nov. 17-19 in the Katy Million Meal Pack-a-Thon.
Denise Mayfield, executive director, Compassion Katy, is working with church representatives from The Fellowship, Westland Baptist and Redeemer Community. Each church will host teams of volunteers who will pack meals Nov. 17-19 in five different sessions. The cost is $56 per volunteer which is either paid by the volunteer or through donations.
Mayfield said that both sponsors and volunteers are needed. Visit www.redeemercommunity.org/upcoming-events, www.thefellowship.org/resources/events/katy-million-meal-pack-a-thon or http://compassionkaty.org for information and to donate. Donations will be accepted after the event and used as seed money for next year, she said.
Packages will be distributed to Katy Christian Ministries, Kentucky and Haiti.
A Vimeo by Mitch Maher on the Redeemer Community Church website says this is the largest pack-a-thon ever attempted and the first to be at more than one church in an area at the same time.
It began after Mayfield and Glenn Lerich, missions pastor of The Fellowship, visited RockPointe Church in Flower Mound as it conducted a pack-a-thon. Their trip was prompted by Fellowship member Jerry Weant, a former RockPointe member, who accompanied them. The result was talk of conducting a similar campaign in Katy and at the urging of Jerry L. Edmonson, lead pastor at The Fellowship, the goal was set at 1 million meals.
The initial plan included five participating churches, said Lerich, but two dropped out for good reasons. That may make reaching the goal more difficult but not impossible, according to organizers.
"We set the bar really high and go for it. If we don't hit the mark, we'll hit a million with the second pack-a-thon," said Mayfield.
Randi Long, pack-a-thon coordinator at Redeemer Community Church, attended a Dallas pack-a-thon event in early November and watched between 150 and 160 volunteers in two hours put together 32,000 meals.
Each church in Katy will have eight packing stations with each station having 25 volunteers. Each station is expected to pack 5,000 meals each session. Each package contains rice, dehydrated veggies, vitamin powder and beans. Mayfield said the package when prepared can feed six people.
The food is tasty, too, said Long, who added that 50 youths in Sunday school class prepared the food as part of their Bible study.
Lerich also likes the idea that the food isn't "just handed over but it's a hand up." Distribution is channeled through educational, religious and medical groups.
Not only the food recipients will benefit.
"I believe it (the pack-a-thon) will pull people together," said Senior Pastor Roy Meadows of Westland Baptist Church. "So many people want to do a good thing. They gravitate toward helping other people. We're calling people who are blessed to be a blessing to others."
After Mayfield visited RockPointe to see a pack-a-thon in action, she said she fell in love not only with the effort to feed the hungry but also with the positive impact the drive had on unchurched people to return them to an active Christian life.
Meadows and Mayfield note that while the pack-a-thon is a good example of Katy-area churches working together, it's not the first. Meadows said 13 Katy-area churches funded and provided volunteers to build two houses through Habitat for Humanity as well as helping with four other houses as part of a project that just closed out.
And, there's more to come. Mayfield and Lerich talk of an April mission trip to Haiti to follow up on this month's efforts and to see what else they might do to help.
When the Food and Drug Administration declared that vapor products (electronic cigarettes) were tobacco products on Aug. 8, they set in motion a two-year march towards the prohibition on the sale and availability of the products in the United States. As someone who successfully quit using traditional tobacco products in July 2013 and as the owner of a vape shop in Billings, I am asking Congress to intervene when they return to Washington after Novembers elections.
Sens. Jon Tester, Steve Daines, and Rep. Ryan Zinke have already demonstrated a helpful understanding of this government overreach, as co-sponsors of legislation that would exempt cigars from FDA oversight.
Unlike cigars, vapor products dont contain tobacco or even smoke. Theyre shown to be at least 95 percent less harmful than combustible cigarettes according to the Royal College of Physicians and Public Health England, and theyre actually helping millions of smokers quit. As the owner of uBlaze Vapor, I meet smokers every day who try vapor products for the first time and never use cigarettes again. Theyre able to get the nicotine without the tar and harmful effects of smoke.
Unfortunately, the recent decision by the FDA to deem vapor products as tobacco will force me to close my business and fire my 10 employees in less than two years. My path towards a tobacco-free life through a small business aimed at providing adult consumers with alternative choices may all come crumbling down. That is, unless Congress acts soon.
Over the next two years, the FDA will require every vapor product on the market to undergo a retroactive pre-approval process in order to remain on the market. No cigarette maker ever had to undergo this process, which was established in 2009 with the Tobacco Control Act and was designed to prevent new tobacco products like cigarettes from hitting the market in the future.
Even if the companies that provide different products to my shop could spend thousands of hours and afford the millions of dollars it will take to submit what is known as a Pre-Market Tobacco Application, there is no guarantee that the FDA will approve a single product currently on the market for sale beyond 2018. Absent a stamp of approval from the FDA, the agency has said it will begin seizing products from stores.
When the TCA passed in 2009, Congress granted permission for every tobacco product on the market on Feb. 15, 2007 (the predicate date), to remain on the market forever. New tobacco products had to get permission to be sold. Unfortunately, entrepreneurship and the FDAs definition of tobacco are now at odds, with tens of thousands of businesses and former smokers (vapers) in the crosshairs.
This spring, the House Appropriations Committee passed an amendment to the Agriculture Bill that would partially address the pending prohibition. An amendment sponsored by Reps. Tom Cole, R-Okl., and Sanford Bishop, D-Ga., would change the predicate date for vapor products from February of 2007 to August of 2016 (when e-cigarettes were officially deemed as tobacco).
I opened uBlaze Vapor to help smokers looking for alternatives to the ineffective nicotine patch, gum, lozenge, or pharmaceutical drugs. Weve helped countless 20 and 30-year smokers finally kick their unhealthy habit. And the FDA wants to take that away, a move that would reverse decades of progress in the fight against smoking.
This industry supports regulations like a ban on the sale of products to minors, the requirement that companies disclose ingredients in the products they sell, and even some limitations on advertising. To treat vapor products more harshly than cigarettes, however, makes little sense. The Cole-Bishop amendment achieves these goals without destroying an entire industry.
We need Tester, Daines and Zinke to urge House and Senate Leadership to include the Cole-Bishop language in the end-of-year omnibus package. Jobs and public health are at stake.
HSPVA to present fall dance concert
The High School for Performing and Visual Arts Dance Department presents the HSPVA Concert Dancers in the HSPVA fall dance concert at 7 p.m. Nov. 17-18 at The Denny Theatre, 4001 Stanford, Houston.
Reserved tickets are $15 and general admission tickets are $10. Visit www.hspvaboxoffice.com for tickets.
The concert, featuring contemporary ballet, jazz and modern dance choreography by the HSPVA dance faculty, will also feature guest choreographed works by David Parsons of the Parsons Dance Company, New York, Texas Tech University Dance Professor, Genevieve Durham, HSPVA Dance and Juilliard graduate, Allysen Hooks, Point Park and HSPVA graduate Christian Warner and HSPVA Dance graduate and Artistic Director of VAULT, Amy Ell.
The HSPVA Concert Dancers, under the direction of Janie Carothers have appeared on numerous university campuses and have toured the United States, England, Scotland and China. The company has appeared locally at the at the Wortham Center's Cullen Theatre, Miller Outdoor Theatre, Hobby Center and MATCH.
Wood Carvers to meet at Bayland
The Houston Area Wood Carvers Club will meet 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, at Bayland Community Center, 6400 Bissonnet.
The November class is a standing relief cross taught by visiting carver, Harry Seurkamp. Advanced registration is required for this class. Pete Reittinger will be teaching at the beginners' table. Members share their art at the monthly Show and Tell.
At the 45th annual Fall Show, Competition and Classes, Eric Bufkin won Best of Show and People's Choice awards for his American Goldfinch. The Best Display Table award was won by Lorraine Lewis and Randall Clements. Leroy Miller won first place in the whittling contest.
Carvers and those interested in learning to wood carve are invited to attend the monthly meetings.
The club meets on the third Saturday of each month at the Bayland Community Center in Houston. HAWC is a nonprofit, social organization whose members live in the greater Houston area. To learn more about the club, email carolynann@consolidated.net, visit www.houstonareawoodcarvers.com or call Preston and Carolyn Smith at 281-392-0713.
Texas State Sen. Paul Bettencourt (R) spoke to a group of about 50 people Thursday at a Westchase restaurant about what Texans can expect now that the nation is preparing for a Trump presidency.
Bettencourt, who represents District 7, said the expected repeal of the Affordable Care Act by a Trump Administration is the most significant change Texans will feel, which he says will be a positive for the state.
The attendees at the fund-raising breakfast for the Westchase District Community Fund were mostly business owners in the west Houston area whom the senator seemed to be previously familiar with based on his years as Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector from 1998 to 2008.
At Cantina Loredo on Westheimher Road he spoke to a mostly Republican crowd, who cheered when he referenced Hillary Clinton and the criminal allegations that surrounded the Clinton Foundation during the Presidential campaign.
"First thing that's going to happen (when Trump takes office) is Obamacare is going to be repealed," he said to more cheers from the group, along with the reversal of other executive orders passed, which he didn't name but number at 249 issued according to the United States National Archives and Records Administration.
One way that will affect Texans is that the lawsuits the state has pending against the federal government, about 30 claims, he said, will be withdrawn which will bode well for the state.
Of the anti-Trump protests that sprung up across the country's major cities after the race was called for Trump, he said "They should have spent more time voting and less time protesting."
He said early reports from people at the rallies say that the protesters had low voter turnout.
But, he added that both candidates, Clinton and Trump handled the results right.
Bettencourt called Clinton's comments after conceding the election, "great".
He cited western Kentucky and Pennsylvania voters as pivotal players in the election after Clinton said she would put coal miners out of business, which he said was a serious mistake as miners there took her seriously and ended up changing the election.
He answered questions about local results, too.
A popular topic was the Houston Independent School District measure that voters blocked, refusing to authorize HISD to forfeit millions of dollars in property taxes to the state next year, possibly allowing the state education commissioner to remove high-value commercial properties from HISD's tax base.
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UH completes transaction to purchase site
The University of Houston System has completed the purchase of 46 acres in Katy from Parkside Capital.
The land is located at the northeast corner of Interstate 10 and the Grand Parkway and will be developed into a campus serving West Houston. Academic programs from two UH System universities, the University of Houston and the University of Houston-Victoria, will be offered at the new campus.
The 46 acres purchased by the UH System is part of a larger 125-acre site that UHS and Parkside Capital have rebranded as University Center, a master-planned, deed restricted, mixed-use development. Parkside Capital will soon begin design and construction of all interior infrastructure including streets, utilities, lighting and landscaping.
"We are excited to welcome the University of Houston and UH-Victoria to University Center," said John S. Moody, Parkside Capital CEO. "We look forward to working with the UH System to create a first-class environment."
The UH System will construct an 80,000-square-foot building at University Center, expected to open for fall 2019. The project is in the design phase, and construction is expected to begin in August 2017. The campus is expected to initially serve 2,000 students, but the master plan includes 500,000-square-feet of space that will eventually be able to accommodate 8,000 to 10,000 students.
"Residents in this area have a need for higher education, but it can be a hardship to travel all the way across Houston in order to go to school," said Paula Myrick Short, UH System vice chancellor for academic affairs. "The UH System's expansion will give residents in parts of Harris, Fort Bend and Waller counties an opportunity to earn their degrees closer to home."
Expanding higher education opportunities in West Houston has long been a priority for regional leaders and the UH System, which has offered programs in the area for 30 years. UH and UHV both offer classes in Katy at separate leased locations. They previously offered academic programming at the System's Cinco Ranch site, which is being sold.
The purchase of the land and the construction of the building in Katy are funded by $46.8 million in Capital Construction Bonds approved during the 84th session of the Texas Legislature. The UH System assembled a task force to assess the educational needs of West Houston, and an independent demography study was conducted to determine the ideal location of a campus that would be accessible and visible.
"This site is well-suited to meet our needs," said Short. "It allows the System room to grow strategically with the population increase that is expected in this area."
According to data from the Katy Area Economic Development Council, the population of the Katy area is expected to increase from 317,000 residents to 550,000 within the next 20 years, and about 200 companies are headquartered there, including many in the energy sector.
Mayde Creek High to Present 'A Christmas Carol"
With the holidays fast approaching, Mayde Creek High School Theatre Company cordially invites you to come see "A Christmas Carol."
The classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge's journey from an inhumane and heartless grouch to a generous and caring soul with the aid of three Christmas spirits who show him the meaning of life one Christmas night.
Performances take place Dec. 8-10 at 7 p.m. with an additional 2 p.m. matinee on Dec. 10. Tickets can be purchased at www.mchstheatre.org. Student tickets are $6 in advance and $8 at the door. Adult tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door. Gold card members may purchase tickets for $5. For more information, call 281-237-3803 or visit www.mchstheatre.org.
Monty Ballard YMCA's School-business partnership supports Katy ISD children
Since opening its doors in 2001, the Monty Ballard YMCA at Cinco Ranch has been devoted to the healthy minds, bodies and spirits of our community. And since opening those doors, our YMCA has also been a devoted Katy ISD Partner in Education, always on the lookout for ways to help children.
It provided 243 pairs of jeans for homeless teens and 100 blankets for elementary children. The YMCA supported 80 students in the KEYS "Katy Students Run" program, helped kids receive braces at no cost to their families and provided books to children attending Camp Cinco.
Through their campus partnership with Shafer Elementary, the YMCA collectively donated canned goods for Ballard House and Eternal Food Ministries along with 100 coats for children who needed them. Individually, employees serve as KEYS mentors and Sundown Elementary Carnival volunteers, while District Executive Director Brian Haines serves on the Partners in Education Advisory Board and often lends his skills as a guest speaker.
But the epitome of the YMCA community outreach is their backpack drive an initiative of Greater Houston YMCAs that impacts thousands of regional children annually. This year in Katy alone, the local YMCA collected 49,351 items.that went into 2,459 backpacks.that benefited children at 32 elementaries, eight junior highs and four high schools.
According to Outreach Coordinator Connie Stirgus, "When I started in 2011, we collected 250 backpacks my first year. I knew this community could do more, and we have! The generosity of Katy is sometimes overwhelming."
To learn more, visit Partners in Education under the "Community" tab at www.katyisd.org.
Animal Rescue Kingdom
Sasha, a Maltese Mix girl, is spayed, up-to-date on her shots and heart-worm negative. The two-year-old likes to ride in a car and walks well on a leash. She is adoptable from Animal Rescue Kingdom, 2611 Charles Lane, Sugar Land. Email animalrescuekingdom@gmail.com for more information or visit awos.petfinder.com or call 832-267-5777.
Newmark Homes
Newmark Homes is not only helping Houston-area residents settle into their perfect homes, but also helping pets with Fort Bend County Animal Services find "furr-ever" homes.
Representatives from animal services are bringing adoptable pets to Newmark model homes during several special events, plus the builder is donating $250 to the organization for each visit.
A change at the top of the ballot came in Fort Bend County, when 51 percent of voters cast their ballots for Democrat Hillary Clinton. Trump trailed by nearly 7 percent - garnering just 45 percent of the vote, according to unofficial election results.
Fort Bend County voters typically opt for a Republican in the White House. In 2008, Barack Obama nearly overtook John McCain. He garnered 48.5 percent of the vote to McCain's 51 percent.
But in 2012, 53 percent of voters cast their ballots for Mitt Romney compared to just 46 percent who voted for Obama.
The Democrat's victory at the top of the ballot didn't make itself to down-ballot races.
Unofficial results show Republicans dominated local races.
Republican Troy Nels held on to his seat as Fort Bend County Sheriff. He garnered nearly 52 percent of the vote, compared to challenger Democrat Michael Ellison's 48 percent. That's a tighter margin than when Nels was elected in 2012, in a two-way race, also against Ellison. Then, Nels garnered 55 percent of the vote to Ellison's 45.
The former mayor of Rosenberg, Republican Vincent Morales, ousted incumbent Democrat Richard Morrison.
Morrison was elected in 2008. He defeated Republican Greg Ordeneaux for the seat, garnering 51 percent of voters to Ordeneaux's 49.
Morrison was narrowly re-elected in 2012, again gaining 51 percent of votes to his challenger, Bruce Fleming's 49 percent. The win was narrow despite the Republican Party pulling support from Fleming, after it was revealed he had committed voter fraud.
Morales was elected mayor of Rosenberg in 2011 in a two-way race. He ran unopposed for re-election in 2013 date. He opted not to seek a third term in office in 2015 because of plans to run for Precinct 1 Commissioner.
Republican Andy Meyers was re-elected Precinct 3 County Commissioner. He ran unopposed.
Republicans Mike Beard, Wayne Thompson and Trever Nehls were elected Constables of precincts 1, 3 and 4. Both were unopposed.
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A community activist accused of punching a police horse last week during an anti-Donald Trump protest was taken into custody Monday after a Houston judge raised her bail.
Shere Dore, 40, a vocal Black Lives Matter supporter who is also an advocate for the homeless, was escorted to a holding cell after state District Judge Jim Wallace raised her bail from $2,000 to $5,000.
Dore had been out on bond after being jailed Thursday for interference with a police service animal.
"There is no doubt that this is all about the First Amendment," said Dore's attorney, Brian Harrison. "These cases are filed in an effort to try to intimidate demonstrators against Donald Trump."
He said he expects Dore's new bail to be posted in the courtroom before she is again processed into the Harris County Jail.
Dore was in court Monday with Emily Garcia-Briones, another demonstrator who is accused of hiding a body camera that fell off an officer. The 22-year-old is charged with tampering with evidence.
In court, prosecutors said both women were with a group of protesters marching toward Houston's City Hall when they were confronted by mounted officers. The demonstrators were in the street, not on the sidewalk, which is a violation of municipal code, prosecutors said.
A mounted HPD officer on a police horse named Astro apparently warned Dore to get on the sidewalk before using the horse to push her back.
"As he pushed her with the horse, defendant Dore struck the police horse in the shoulder with a closed fist," prosecutor Gavin Ellis said in court.
Ellis declined to comment on the case after the brief hearing.
Both protesters face up to 10 years in prison if convicted of the third degree felonies, said Jolanda Jones, an attorney for Garcia-Briones.
"No one hit a horse and no one hid a camera," she said.
Jones, an HISD trustee, a former city council member and local firebrand, also raised the specter of police crackdowns on rallies that have cropped up across the country daily in response to the election of Trump as president.
"I want the world to know that our clients are absolutely innocent. They have a First Amendment right to protest," Jones. "I think this is one of the first indications of what's going to happen with the new president."
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Vilma Jean Goeb, mother of Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, died Sunday morning at age 90 of heart failure.
Goeb, of Pearland, had been married to Patricks father Charles Anthony Goeb for 56 years before his death in December 2002. The couple had moved to the Houston area to join their son in the restaurant business in the 1980s.
Patrick, an only child, was obviously feeling the loss when he appeared at the Senate GOP caucus on Sunday, State Sen. Kel Seliger, R-Amarillo, said on Twitter later that day.
The lieutenant governor changed his last name in 1977 when he started work at a Scranton, Pa. radio station.
He shared the juxtaposition of a childhood photo with a current shot last Mother's Day in celebration of Goeb, then 89.
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Two Texas Baptist churches may be expelled from the Baptist General Convention of Texas for their welcoming open-door policies toward LGBTQ people, reports say.
The Baptist Standard reports that Wilshire Baptist in Dallas and First Baptist in Austin received letters from BGCT officials stating that because the churches had affirmed themselves with the LGBTQ people, they were "no longer being in harmonious cooperation with the BGCT."
LOCAL LOOK: How Houston's LGBT community compares to other major U.S. cities
The BGCT is a part of the Southern Baptist Convention, which among its core beliefs is that homosexual behavior is a sin.
The Wilshire Baptist letter from the BGCT reportedly says, "Should your church choose to publicly affirm same-sex sexual behavior, the BGCT will no longer be able to accept funds from the church, seat its messengers to the annual meeting, allow the church to express affiliation with the BGCT or allow its members to serve on the BGCT boards, committees or other roles."
"The outcome is not yet known, and it will not be known until after the convention messengers are seated," Wilshire Pastor George Mason told The Baptist Standard. He also told them that his church plans to send messengers to the BGCT annual meeting in Waco, Nov. 14.
First Austin also received a similar letter from the BGCT, The Baptist Standard reports.
LOOKING AT TEXAS: These are the most and least LGBT-friendly cities in Texas
"We do not desire to argue over sexuality any further," a response letter sent to BGCT officials by First Austin reads. "As a church, we did our diligent theological work, being guided by the Spirit, meditating on scared scripture and hearing the stories and struggles of our own members. As a result of that thoughtful process, we are proudly and openly welcoming and affirming of all God's beloved children."
Back in 2010 was the last time the BGCT openly scolded a church over LGBTQ issues after Dallas' Royal Lane Baptist Church stopped receiving funds from the BGCT for appointing openly gay deacons.
Fort Bend ISD will hold two community meetings in November to get feedback on the attendance boundary zones for four new schools, scheduled to open by August of 2018.
The district's 48th, 49th and 50th elementary schools are scheduled to open by the start of the 2017-2018 school year.
The district's 15th middle school is slated to open by the start of the 2018-2019 school year.
The community meetings will be Nov. 29 at Travis High School and Nov. 30 at Ridge Point High School, from 7 to 9 p.m. They are open to the public, but the attendance boundary changes are only anticipated to affect 19 existing Fort Bend ISD campuses.
The meeting at Travis High School includes campuses that will be affected by the 49th and 50th elementary schools. Those schools are: Oakland Elementary, Pecan Grove Elementary, Madden Elementary, Oyster Creek Elementary, Fleming Elementary, Bowie Middle School, Garcia Middle School, Seguin Elementary, Jordan Elementary, Mission West Elementary, Holley Elementary, Crockett Middle School and Hodge's Bend Middle School.
The meeting at Ridge Point will address those schools affected by the 48th elementary and 15th middle school. Those includes Schiff Elementary, Sienna Crossing Elementary, Scanlan Oaks Elementary, Heritage Rose Elementary, Baines Middle School and First Colony Middle Scohol.
All of those campuses could also be impacted by classroom additions, funded by the 2014 Bond Program, that will increase the number of students who can attend some existing schools.
The meeting at Travis High School may also address possible boundaries for Fort Bend ISD's 51st elementary school, which is currently in planning stages.
All four new campuses were built to accommodate population growth.
Fort Bend ISD's 48th elementary school and 15th middle school will be located next to each other in Sienna Plantation South. The district's 49th and 50th elementary schools are on the Grand Parkway corridor, in the Harvest Green and Grand Vista developments.
The new elementary schools were funded by the 2014 Bond Program. The middle school was funded by the 2007 Bond Program.
Now, Fort Bend ISD is working with focus groups to shape attendance boundary options to present during the community meetings in November.
New attendance boundaries could be approved by the Fort Bend ISD board of trustees as early as January of 2017.
Overwhelmingly, after losing a loved one to suicide, the survivor feels alone and isolated. Probably they have not known anyone who lost someone to suicide (or havent known that they do because stigma has prevented people from talking about this particular loss). Survivor Day gatherings help everyone know that they are not alone and that their feelings and experiences are common to all suicide loss survivors. Suicide knows no boundaries it affects so many families, schools, businesses, families of servicemen/servicewomen, American Indians and other cultures. More people die from suicide than murder in our country, and now more teenagers die from suicide than from car accidents. For every suicide, many more survivors are left trying to figure out why and dealing with sudden loss.
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THE WOODLANDS -- The 60-foot-long American flag waved majestically, framed between two fire truck ladders hoisted 75 feet in the air, as the dozens gathered below paid tribute to the country's servicemen and women at Town Green Park Friday.
The Woodlands Township board member Gordy Bunch started the ceremony with an excerpt from a letter that his grandfather wrote to his grandmother while serving in Okinawa, Japan, during World War II. The letter was dated Sept. 9, 1945, just a week after the war ended.
"It's swell the war is over," Bunch read. The letter went on to describe some of the carnage Bunch's grandfather witnessed when a young man from Texas was fatally shot within arm's length of him.
"He hurt so bad and all I could tell him was it would be alright, even though I knew he was dying," Bunch read. "War is sure hell."
Keynote speaker Brig. Gen. Brevet Constance McNabb's speech served as a call to action. She spoke of the challenges veterans face even after returning from the war zone: post-traumatic stress disorder, undiagnosed brain trauma, difficulty re-acclimating to civilian life, and all this with a lack of resources.
"These are our heroes," McNabb said. "They are not likely to ask for help."
McNabb explained that trauma and isolation can have a deadly impact on veterans, who commit suicide at a rate of 22 a day.
"This is an epidemic of epic proportions," she said.
McNabb urged the members of the audience to reach out to veterans and be persistent in showing that they are cared for.
"Be a friend. Be that wingman," she said. "Knock on that door - whether they curse you out. ... They need help. They need support."
She also asked employers to be mindful of hiring and working with veterans and lobbied for further investment into veterans' care programs.
"Go the extra mile. Don't take no for an answer," she said. "They've earned it."
HELENA Despite ballot language that might prevent it, Lewis and Clark County Commission Chairman Mike Murray wants to find out whether the voter-approved renovation of the Law Enforcement Center for jail space can proceed even though the levy that would have been used to operate it failed.
If theres an inch of hope, I want to jump at that hope, Murray said.
Commissioners Susan Good Geise agreed and said we have to go down every path.
The commission will likely seek an opinion from the county attorneys office, as well as attorneys involved in the possible sale of bonds to finance a $6.5 million renovation of the building.
We have to move forward. We have to do something, said commissioner Andy Hunthausen, who also acknowledged that the ballot language may prevent the commission from acting on voters approval of the renovation.
While voters approved the renovation bond issue by a single percentage point, they rejected a 15-year levy to raise $4 million annually for operations and maintenance costs, as well as inmate programs aimed at reducing jail overcrowding.
Both of this years detention center ballot issues hinged on each other. Voters were told that the ballot issues for renovation and operation costs both needed to win approval to move forward.
Murray expressed regret that jail overcrowding would be unresolved when he leaves office at the end of the year.
I think its unfortunate that part of the proposal was voted down, Murray said, adding that he blamed the commission for the levy's defeat.
Were not adequately educating the public on the safety needs and rehabilitation needs of the inmates that we house, Murray said.
I feel bad that Im leaving the problem to the other two commissioners and the new incumbent to solve, but I want to pursue that one issue, said Murray, who chose not to run for re-election after having served on the commission since 1993.
Jail overcrowding has been termed a crisis by the commission, and the county budget for this fiscal year, which began July 1 and ends June 30, 2017, contains $225,000 to incarcerate overflow inmates at jails in other counties where the Sheriffs Office contracts for cells.
A fact sheet issued by the county on jail overcrowding said the facilitys recent daily population exceeded 100 inmates, with another 30 held at contract jails.
The county detention center opened in 1985 with space for 54 inmates, and additional beds were added to increase the sleeping space to 80. Those held locally in excess of 80 sleep on the floor.
Although there are additional beds beyond the initial 54, other areas of the detention center remain cramped for inmates. County officials and those with the court system and Sheriffs Office have expressed concern for inmate and detention staff safety.
This years ballot issues come on the heels of those last November that sought nearly $41 million for construction of a new facility with space for the Sheriffs Office and up to $5.3 million when fully implemented for operation, maintenance and inmate programming. Both of those 2015 ballot issues failed.
If the legal opinions on the ballot language for renovating the Law Enforcement Center dont allow the county to proceed, voters could again be asked to help fund a solution to overcrowding.
Limiting the number of inmates who are held would require finding more beds at jails in other counties for overflow, which will be expensive, Hunthausen said.
It may mean that we put together another proposal to ask our community for help again, he added.
Maybe theyre interested in just space, maybe theyre interested in just programming, he said.
Another possibility is to ask voters for money to launch a pretrial services program that would screen inmates and allow a judge to better decide which inmates require incarceration pending trial, Hunthausen said.
Nearly all of those who are held, county officials say, are there awaiting trial and nearly all are there on felony charges.
Yet another option Hunthausen mentioned is to look for money in the countys budget, reallocating resources from other county services, to fund a pretrial services program.
Geise echoed support for pretrial services and said it wouldnt necessarily have to be a part of the Sheriffs Office.
The commission is interested in collecting more data on inmates, such as on the crimes theyre accused of and mental health and chemical dependency, to provide programs aimed at meeting those needs.
Lewis and Clark County is one of four communities receiving state funding for a pilot project to collect data on inmates, the commissioners said.
Data collection, say Geise and Hunthausen, could also offer options for those who are held because the lack money for a bail bond.
A financial ability to post a bail bond means a person charged with a crime is held pending trial and can lose employment that may mean the inability to pay rent and make vehicle payments.
Allowing people to be released through pretrial services instead of being required to post a bond would be less costly to the person accused of a crime and the county as well, the commissioners said.
In addition to not holding an inmate at roughly $123 a day, inmates families may not be pushed to look to the county for financial assistance, the commissioners noted.
But the search for solutions to ease jail overcrowding doesnt rely entirely on voters and property taxes.
Working with the county attorneys office, public defenders and judges to reduce the time a person is held pending trial is also of interest to the commission, as this too would reduce the jails population, Hunthausen said.
Improving the data collection on those accused of crimes offers an advantage to the county, say the commissioners, which goes beyond jail overcrowding.
They see it as a way to better educate the public on why people are being incarcerated.
Having more data on the types of crimes that are resulting in people being incarcerated is important, Geise said.
I think that it is important for the voters to know and the taxpayers to know how many are there for violent crimes. I think that theyre going to be shocked when they see the numbers, she explained.
The county wont be successful in seeking voter support until it provides taxpayers the information they want and deserve on the kinds of people who are incarcerated, she added.
So many people continue to believe that if youve got a joint, were going to arrest you, were going to pick you up and put you in the slammer. I hear that comment all the time, and it is just simply not the case.
CHEYENNE, Wyo. The Wyoming Business Alliance and Wyoming Heritage Foundation have created a new initiative where business people across the state will be able to help improve public education.
Wyoming Excels was officially launched during Gov. Matt Mead's Business Forum at Cheyenne.
"Wyoming Excels is about business engaging with educators," said Fred von Ahrens, the volunteer chairman of the initiative.
Von Ahrens is vice president of manufacturing for Tronox, a company in Green River that mines trona and makes soda ash. He also is vice chairman of the Wyoming Business Alliance/Wyoming Heritage Foundation.
"This initiative will allow us to get a seat at the table to support the education system," he said, and be a partner to improve education.
"It's all about the outcomes for our children, so they become outstanding citizens and employees," he told the Wyoming Tribune Eagle (http://bit.ly/2fY0asQ). "It's about accountability in the system, transparency in funding and return on investment and student outcomes."
Business people can help in various ways, including serving as mentors, von Ahrens said.
Von Ahrens said the Daniels Fund and the John P. Ellbogen Foundation each donated money for a three-year grant totaling $510,000 to support Wyoming Excels.
"This is an outstanding opportunity," von Ahrens said. "We are honored by the confidence these foundations have put in our organizations."
Karren "Sparky" Turner of the Daniels Fund said Wyoming Excels will help build an educational system "that will assure the well-educated, skilled, productive workforce and citizenry."
A Texas man has launched a lawsuit after a Houston police officer allegedly bashed his head into a jail cell door while he was handcuffed.
The outburst of violence was all caught on camera, according to the federal civil rights suit filed this month in the Southern District of Texas.
Problems started when Williams was arrested in 2014 on a misdemeanor drunk driving charge and booked in at the City of Houston jail.
An officer identified in the court documents as S. Corral led Williams to a holding cell, but stopped off en route allegedly to bash the handcuffed inmate's head into a cell door.
Inside the cell, Corral allegedly shoved Williams up against a wall and put him in a neck nerve hold until he collapsed.
Williams bled "profusely" until medical help arrived and now, more than two years later, he still bears a scar from the alleged beating.
"To cover-up his crime Officer Corral falsely charges Reuben Williams with felony harassment of a public servant for spitting on him but then, quite strangely, fails to collect the important DNA-rich saliva evidence," Williams' lawyer writes in the suit.
The lawyer argues that Houston police have engaged in a pattern of excessive force - and that the lack of discipline after such incidents is tantamount to a policy allowing such behavior.
Over the past 13 years, Houston police have shot and either wounded or killed people at least 250 times - but none of the officers have been disciplined or found guilty of misconduct, the documents allege.
In the jails, excessive force is a "custom" - so this isn't the first time city employees were caught on camera beating jail inmates, the suit claims.
"There is a pattern and practice of individuals being beaten at the jails and caught on video including the beating of John Abbott, Charles Chukwu and Trenton Garrett among many others yet the internal affairs department does nothing," the documents contend, referencing other alleged incidents of violence against inmates.
"Despite changes occurring nation-wide Houston has chosen to remain in the Dark Ages when it comes to curtailing excessive force and police misconduct transparency," Williams' attorney, Randall Kallinen, said in a statement Sunday.
The suit asks for an unspecified amount of damages from mental anguish as well as punitive damages plus attorneys' fees and costs.
A local minister was sentenced to federal prison Monday for fraudulent use of funds - including gambling trips to Lake Charles, La. - that had been meant to help parishoners after Hurricane Ike.
After admonishing Jesse R. Dunn Jr. for his lack of repentence and spending a portion of his money on a 2015 Cadillac, U.S. District Judge Lynn N. Hughes handed down a five-and-a-half-year sentence followed by five years of supervised release.
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The Harris County medical examiner's office has named the victim of a fatal shooting Thursday night at a southwest Houston gas station.
Christopher Barriere, 44, was known in the local rap scene as "Mr. 3-2." He was a member of the Houston group Screwed Up Click and was a recording artist with Rap-A-Lot Records.
Writing in the Houston Press, local music writer Brandon Caldwell remembered Barriere as an "influencer and a hell of a rapper of the 1990s and parts of the 2000s."
"3-2's verse is somber," Caldwell wrote. "There's a slow tick to it as it feels more like a eulogy and admittance of sins than anything moving towards progress."
Shots were fired after an altercation at the gas station at 6610 South Sam Houston Parkway West near Rockwell, said Houston police detective M. Arrington. The gunman sped away before returning again to fire more shots.
Barriere was shot in the back of the head and died at the scene, according to police and the medical examiner's office. Another victim was shot in the face and was rushed to Ben Taub General Hospital. His condition was not released.
A photo posted by snoopdogg (@snoopdogg) on Nov 11, 2016 at 12:47pm PST
The third victim was an innocent bystander. He was wounded slightly in the leg from a shotgun blast, which also peppered his pickup that was parked outside at the gas station. He was not taken to a hospital for treatment and is expected to survive.
Arrington said investigators are trying to determine what led to the altercation and sparked the gunfire. They are reviewing surveillance video from the scene as well as interviewing one of the men who had driven to the station with the gunman.
The suspect fired a pistol and a shotgun during the shooting.
The gunman drove away in a four-door gray or light brown car.
Anyone with information about the case is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS or the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600
CASPER, Wyo. Wyoming is planning to continue its cloud seeding weather modification program into the winter of 2018.
Wyoming Water Development Commission Director Harry LaBonde told a joint meeting of the commission and the legislatures Select Water Committee that the effort for the 2017-18 season calls for 10 ground-based generators in the Wind River Mountains, with nine placed on the west flank and one on the east flank.
While Wyoming is overseeing the effort, the $575,000 annual cost is split with downstream states and other entities wishing to participate. Wyomings share comes to about a quarter of the expense, or around $155,000, as most of the benefit flows to down-basin water users.
The Wyoming program has been in effect for three years, but LaBonde said there is consideration of creating a broader coalition.
There was some discussion in the last year about forming a coalition of states to look at weather modification in the entire basin, and setting up a structure of which projects they might fund, and the funding percentages, LaBonde said.
Wyoming will continue its program in the meantime. It has been a leader in cloud seeding research, supporting a six-year, $13 million study that showed the practice could increase snow precipitation by 5 percent to 15 percent in a given area, depending on variable weather conditions.
In 2015, the Legislature approved a separate $1.4 million program for cloud seeding in four ranges including the Big Horns, Laramie, Medicine Bow and Sierra Madre mountains.
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Of all the interesting things to do in Houston, a tour of the Bayou Citys cemeteries is something that we cant recommend enough.
A handful of cemeteries in the Houston-area, including Glenwood Cemetery and Forest Park Cemetery, are the final resting places of some of the people that helped shape the city.
HOUSTON'S PAST: Vintage pictures show Houston as it was in 1977
At Glenwood, just outside of downtown, you can visit the Hughes family plot, where Howard Hughes rests with the rest of his clan. Also at Glenwood you will find the graves of Astrodome mastermind Judge Roy Hofheinz, Dr. Denton Cooley, actress Gene Tierney, and oilman Glenn McCarthy, who built the Shamrock Hotel and inspired James Deans character in Giant.
Elsewhere in Glenwood you will find the Hobbys, William and Oveta, plus Anson Jones, the last President of the Republic of Texas. Hes been buried there since 1858, one of the first major interments.
Also in Glenwood you will see surnames on headstones like Shepherd, Bagby, Binz, Elgin, and Gray all of who have busy streets named after them nearby. Their legacies shine on every time we are stuck in Houston traffic.
EXPLAINED, FINALLY: Why does University of Houston-Downtown have an alligator as a mascot and not a cougar?
Forest Park Cemetery, in southeast Houston at 6900 Lawndale, eternally hosts a who's who of Houston history like Jesse H. Jones, Lloyd Bentsen, Houston Chronicle founder Marcellus E. Foster, and Mama Ninfa Laurenzo.
Eric Kayne/Freelance
Influential Houston bluesman Samuel John "Lightnin'" Hopkins is also buried with the rest of those swells, interred in Section 23 in Jan. 1982. He has simpleton stone with an acoustic guitar carved into it.
WILD HISTORY: The true story of when Dennis Hopper came to Houston and nearly killed himself
We looked for where Houston's Dr. James "Red" Duke is buried only to find that he's at Austin's Texas State Cemetery, where Stephen F. Austin, Barbara Jordan, and Chris Kyle were laid to rest.
Sam Houston is at Huntsville's Oakwood Cemetery, if you feel like going by to say hello to our city's namesake on the way to Dallas.
Joe Holley / Houston Chronicle
Other major cemeteries in Houston like Founders Memorial Park (1217 West Dallas) and Hollywood Cemetery (3506 North Main) are both worth spending an afternoon exploring in. You will likely find some of the names that adorn some of Houstons most-popular streets and institutions.
Over at Hollywood Cemetery you will find the final resting places of Lawrence Shipley Sr. and his wife Lillie Shipley, a couple that helped changed the way we all eat donuts in Houston.
Craig Hlavaty is a reporter for Chron.com and HoustonChronicle.com. He's an intolerable native Texan with too much ink in his skin and too much brisket stuck in his teeth.
Steve Bannon, the one-time head honcho at the alt-right website Breitbart.com, has been tapped by President-elect Donald Trump to be his chief strategist and top counselor.
Other political lighting rods have filled that job (or one similar to it) - most notably Texan Karl Rove for President George W. Bush. But none have come with the rhetorical baggage that Bannon brings with him.
This website is intended for U.S. visitors only.
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.
The adage The more things change, the more they remain the same has never been truer than in todays political climate.
The division, the unrest, the protests, the threats, the name calling -- its all old hat in the context of American political history.
But many people today dont know that.
For a country that invented the internet and then populated it with a bazillion bytes of historical data, we have a remarkably short historical attention span or desire to look it up online. Yet, there are numerous websites available that serve as repositories for digitized newspapers. Some are free, some are not; but all offer a chance to survey the front pages of history going back to the 1600s.
And, because most of these archives are searchable, you can quickly home in on information in seconds that, prior to the internet, would have taken numerous trips to a public or college library and hours slogging through rolls of microfilm or microfiche.
A little online research can help give context to the 2016 presidential election when measured against history.
For example, many are saying Donald Trump's victory over Hillary Clinton surely stands as one of the greatest political upsets in history. But that really depends on how far back your sense of history goes.
In the 1948 presidential election, Democrat Harry Truman scored the "Most Amazing Upset In U.S. History" over Republican Thomas Dewey, according to the headline in the Harrisburg (Pa.) Telegraph.
Read a few more papers of the time, and youll discover nearly all the polls pointed to a victory by Dewey. Election pundits were certain, even on Election Day, that Truman would lose -- and lose big. But the American public voted otherwise.
Sound familiar?
It's also worth noting that, after those "shocking results," Dewey supporters did not stage numerous protests across America chanting "Not my president," or shouting "Impeach Truman," or beating and burning effigies of Truman.
Another common observation of the 2016 election is that the close results reflect a deep divide among Americans, something that hasnt been seen in recent times -- except in the 1960 presidential election.
Democrat John Kennedy defeated Republican challenger Richard Nixon by about 300,000 votes in what was then the closest election in American history.
The newspapers of the time talked about the deep divide in America as reflected by the nearly even results. The candidates were aware of the split as well.
So, when Kennedy emerged the winner, challenger Richard Nixon "urged all Americans to unite behind their next president, John F. Kennedy," according to The Pittsburgh Press on Nov. 9, 1960.
Again, sound familiar?
Many also have called the 2016 presidential campaign one of the nastiest in history.
Perhaps, but a search of the online newspaper archives suggests, if anything, 2016 was no different from many, many previous campaigns, including those in 2012 and 2008.
In fact, in 1998, according to various editions of The Arizona Republic in Phoenix, that years presidential election campaign was the nastiest in history.
So were the 1978 presidential race, the 1928 campaign and the 1912 election, when Theodore Roosevelt ran as a third-party candidate for the job he'd held just a few years earlier.
And media bias? Heck, what happened in 2016 is nothing compared to the wicked partisanship shown by newspapers during Abraham Lincoln's presidential campaigns in 1860 and 1864.
Northern papers painted him as no less than God's right-hand man, while Southern papers depicted him as the spawn of Satan -- and those were the moderate publications.
The more you look back on past elections, the more you realize how little has changed over the centuries. That we happened to have a few decades here and there of moderate campaign civility is more an aberration than the norm.
Presidential campaigns have always been "the worst in history." Its just that many of us don't remember or care to.
But the internet and newspaper archives can help us remember.
Here are a few of the best digitized newspaper repository sites worth visiting:
Chronicling America http://bit.ly/2eQr6Z8
Free digitized collection of newspapers from across America ranging in years from 1789 to 1922.
Small Town Papers http://bit.ly/2fJmsd8
A free collection of 250 newspapers nationwide with digitized versions dating back to 1846.
New York Times Archive http://nyti.ms/2eLjOCO
A free, online, text only archive of The New York Times articles from 1851 to the present.
A pay service, features a very deep and well indexed collection of major and minor papers from around the nation dating back to the 1700s.
Newspaper Archive http://bit.ly/2fkuIDj
Another pay service featuring a deep and well-indexed catalog of newspapers going back to the 1700s.
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Pipeline protesters took their message to the doorsteps of both state and national government on Monday, marching from the Capitol to the federal courthouse.
"They have brought their battle to us. We will bring it to them," Magdalena Rios told several hundred protesters gathered in a circle on the Capitol lawn in the late afternoon.
The protesters began their organized, hours-long rally at the Capitol around 11:30 a.m., marched south to the block of Third Street between Rosser Avenue and Avenue A around 1 p.m., then returned to the Capitol around 3 p.m.
A few protesters went inside the federal courthouse in hopes of speaking with the judge and getting their message across to the federal government.
"I informed them that the federal judge had gotten the message," said Paul Ward, U.S. marshal for North Dakota. The protesters were asked to leave, which they did politely, he said.
Gathered in the street outside the courthouse, one group of protesters composed largely of non-natives and people willing to be arrested formed a distinct perimeter around a second group, composed mainly of native people and elders.
People took turns speaking to the group as about 50 law enforcement officers looked on from the outer perimeter.
"When we put out the call, America answered. And we are grateful that the American people are here," Robert Eder, a veteran from Fort Peck, told the crowd. "It may not be utopia, but it is the best country in the world, because our ancestors white, black, red and yellow have stood together to dispel and displace racism and hate and greed.
"Thank you for being here, taking the time out of your lives to show America that our resources are not for sale to anyone with money," he continued. "Water is sacred; water is precious."
Andrew Sigman stood on the outer line in an effort to shield people in the center from getting arrested.
"We're exercising our white privilege," said Sigman, who in a previous interview suggested white people have been treated more favorably by the police during the protests.
Julia Johnson, of Pittsburgh, also joined the outer line.
"My indigenous brothers and sisters did that for me in the Black Lives Matter movement," she said.
Though the protesters did not have a permit, no one was arrested, North Dakota Highway Patrol reported.
There's a large number of them, and we dont have the resources to necessarily deal with such a large crowd," Highway Patrol Lt. Tom Iverson said. Our officers are being patient with them.
Rios said one protester who had intended to lead the march was arrested while driving to Bismarck, but Morton County Sheriff's Department spokesman Rob Keller could not confirm that.
The Capitol was put on a "soft lockdown," meaning only employees with key cards could go in and out. The federal courthouse was also locked down while protesters stood outside, according to Ward. St. Mary's School was put into "shelter in place" mode while protesters marched by, according to Gerald Vetter, president of Light of Christ Catholic Schools.
Police blocked roads to keep traffic away from where people were marching. They ultimately stopped the forward march at Rosser Avenue, which officers on scene said was done to maintain traffic on the busy thoroughfare.
Bismarck residents looked on as the protesters passed their homes and offices. Some pulled out their cellphones to record the march on video, while others peered from upstairs windows.
"I thought it'd be a lot smaller," said Roberto Morales, who stepped out of his Bismarck house to watch the protesters go by. "I like it. It's pretty cool."
"I'm sure they're being heard, rather than before it was always just the cops and them not interacting with the community," Morales added.
Others were more frustrated by the protests, which blocked city streets throughout the day.
"I agree that water is life," said Christina Dukart. "This kind of thing with protests blocking roads is kind of frustrating."
One Bismarck woman broke into tears of fury as she looked on at the protesters in the middle of Third Street, while another man called out simply, "I don't care!"
The demonstration took place a day before protest actions are scheduled for locations around the world as opponents of the Dakota Access Pipeline aim to convince the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers not to issue a permit to allow the pipeline to be placed under the Missouri River.
Bismarck Tribune reporters Blair Emerson and Nick Smith contributed to this article.
Caritas Cehia in cautarea unui expert/unei experte sau unei echipe de experti in prestarea serviciilor de consiliere psihologica (pe segmentul burnout) pentru echipa mobila de prestare a serviciilor psiho-sociale pentru refugiatii ucraineni
Here is a selection of letters and emails weve received since December 5. Please send correspondence to letters@cjr.org, along with your name, address, and any relevant affiliation.
THE MANY MEANINGS OF AUDACIOUS
Paper makes audacious decision to highlight silent epidemic
I feel your use of audacious in the headline of the article on the Palm Beach Posts series, Generation Heroin, gives the wrong impression. While audacious can mean intrepidly daring and marked by originality and verve, it also means recklessly bold and contemptuous of decorum, which is how many are taking it.
As you are aware, in this era of clickbait and fake news, people often dont take the time to read the links, but cast judgement based on headlines alone. As the CJR article makes the rounds, people are saying it is a terrible thing the paper did when, if fact, it was quality journalism.
I would encourage you to reconsider your headline for this and future articles. I expect CJR to be a standard bearer for quality journalism in an era when such quality is scarce.
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Sincerely,
Rebecca Abma
Hawthorne, NJ
DIGITALS NOT JUST FOR THE YOUNG
Print is dead. Long live print.
Im 62 and I havent willingly read an actual paper anything in years. I read Kindle books on my iPad, my local paper online (where they cluelessly try to emulate the paper by making me turn pages), and I read stories from around the world, often on my laptop because the iPad keeps getting indigestion from JavaScript. The company I work for went paperless years ago, so I dont use or file paper at work, either.
Since this is CJR, I will note that my local paper offers stories of poor quality written by unedited millennials of dwindling ability. I recently choked over a story about a car accident where the deceased was referred to as the dearly departed. This from a paper that wins awards from the Georgia Press Association.
If you have a paper-only edition, Im not buying or reading because paper is really, really, really inconvenient. You have to look for it, you have to protect it from the puppy who likes to eat it, and filing it is a real pain. I quit using the library years ago. You had to go get a book, take care of it, and return it. Not only that, but if they didnt have it, you had to wait for an interlibrary loan. Lets not talk about going to the bookstore and turning your head sideways so you can read the titles with your tri-focals, because I quit bookstores, too.
I use Evernote to clip online articles I like, and it is easy to tag them by subject. I never search hard to find any article I read some time ago that was about something. Trying to cram a newspaper in a three-in-one printer/scanner/fax machine is a no-go.
Most of what passes for trying to get me to pay for content online is ludicrous. I join the millions of online porn users, using the incognito feature of the Chrome browser to avoid paywalls, and visit the decidedly non-prurient pages of the London Times, The Telegraph, The Washington Post, and others. Id happily pay a few bits per article, but everyone wants me to cough up $30 to $40 a month to get all the fabulous local content about cities Im not ever going to spend much time visiting.
At some point, someone will work this out. Probably someone who works for radio because they have already had to figure out how to stay in business after losing a mass market. In fact, my local radio station group has a news site that carries better and more current content than my local paper. There will always be people who like paper, just like all those people who like jazz. I suspect most of them will be in France.
Merrill Guice
merrillguice.com
THE MEDIA AND THE WHITE WORKING CLASS
Surprised by Trump win? Stop ignoring the white working class
This frame of the white working class being ignored or misunderstood is lazy and easily disproved. White working class voters are not ignored and do not have it worse relative to the black working class, Latino working class, female working class, immigrant working class, or any other cross-section you want to examine.
White voters of almost every education and income level voted for Trump. The white working class is a euphemism and distraction from the reality that Trump ran a bigoted campaign.
CJR is not going to provide valuable guidance for the media if you keep regurgitating simplistic and disproven memes from election night.
Hussain Rahim
THE STORY BEHIND A COURT RULING
Documentary filmmakers fear more legal challenges in Trump era
The writer correctly states that in 2010, a federal judge ordered documentary filmmaker Joe Berlinger to turn over hundreds of hours of footage and outtakes from his film Crude after a request from Chevron. However, you neglect to mention that the outtakes provided evidence of misbehavior by the plaintiffs lead attorney Steven Donziger, expert witnesses, and Ecuadorean officials in a lawsuit against Chevron in Ecuador.
In ordering the footage be turned over, the court found that Berlingers outtakes were not shielded by journalists privilege. The court explained that, because Berlingers film was solicited by the plaintiffs for the purpose of telling their story, and that changes to the film were made at their instance, Berlinger failed to carry his burden of showing that he collected information for the purpose of independent reporting and commentary. The court also found that information contained in the footage could not be considered confidential.
To confuse Berlingers movie with independent journalism is a distortion. The footage might still be on Berlingers cutting-room floor had the court not enabled the truth to be exposed.
Respectfully,
Dave Samson
General Manager, Public Affairs
Chevron Corporation
FIGHTING FAKE NEWS
A simple step to make news sites more secure
Just read your excellent piece on use of HTTPS. Along the same lines, adoption of a certificate of authenticity for other electronic access types (e.g., email attachments, printed documents, PDF files) could create a bedrock of trusted information. The Verisign trust logo was remarkably helpful and likely a necessary driver for the wide acceptance of e-commerce. I see this project as an extension and logical continuation of that effort.
If journalists, large Web content providers, and aggregators cooperated, they could quickly take the lead in deflating the fake news generators and distributors. A trustmark would exist for the benefit of the information consumer, not for intermediaries to limit or quash free speech. It would not indicate truth, but would identify the originator and possible owner of the information.
After the election, I signed up for an online subscription to The New York Times. Not that I needed it, but to support them. Everyone wont do that. Helping readers understand the value of sourced, researched, well-written, and edited news is difficult, but critical.
In my view, the Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and Web media outlets would be great standard bearers, as would CNN and perhaps even Fox. My objective is to talk less and take more action to support our clearly dazed democracy. Im hoping you have folks there who are similarly motivated.
Sincerely,
Mark Bonine
San Jose, CA
SATIRE VS. LIES
How Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert blazed a trail for Trump
The writers notion of what constitutes fake news is tone deaf. What rock is he living under? Fake news is whipped up from whole- (or half-) cloth of lengthy, detailed, deliberate lies shared with the credulous to gain political advantage over what is inconveniently true. This lie machine has made a huge difference in politics. Examples abound at snopes.com.
Colbert and Stewart are satire. Their programs showed footage of public figures saying whatever they said. Stewart and Colbert dished out morality dressed in comedy. The audience understood.
And no, the media does not have to choose between Trump as mastermind, Trump as commerce central, or any other definition of Trump. Trump himself doesnt know what he is. A medium that was not subservient to commerce might have followed its nose to a journalism that improved public understanding of how democracy is shackled to commerce, and prevented the travesty of Americans being forced to choose between the presidential candidate of Goldman Sachs (D) and the candidate for US president of Goldman Sachs (R).
I wish CJR would concern itself with this: Todays journalists are co-promoting with Trump the language bridge alt-right, which will walk millions in the fake-news/coal-country/patriot/strong-father contingent out of the Republican bag and into fascist territory.
Cass Martinez
There is a bitter irony in your piece on Stewart, Colbert, and fake news, which complains bitterly about fake news while getting history so terribly wrong. It shows colossal ignorance of history. It is a piece that is so bad you may want to consider retracting it.
The author writes: American freedom has always been synonymous with American business; at this moment in history, they are virtually identical. No repressive regime, whether the product of a coup or a slow strangulation of liberties, was spawned by businessmen.
You dont have to be a communist to recognize that this is completely false; you only have to consider the history of slavery in the US and around the world. In the slave trade, human beings were bought and sold and served as both money and capital.
That is just one example. Hitler was helped into power by political conservatives and businessmen, and fascism in general is a totalitarian system that usually supports and protects a small business elite, including military dictatorships. Individual rights and freedoms are established by governments and the law. Nineteenth-century liberals were pro-market and pro-capital, but sometimes radically anti-democratic.
That is just on the facts. The thesis is equally terrible. To suggest, somehow, that a couple of comedianswho often presented actual news while mocking itpaved the way for deliberate misinformation and propaganda is shooting the messenger.
Unless this was written as some kind of satire of fake news, it does a disservice to journalism as well as to history.
Dougald Lamont
Winnipeg, Canada
This is the most asinine thing Ive ever read in CJR, and an incredible insult to the intelligence of everyone: Yet it was Stewart and Colbert who helped create the atmosphere of fake news (formerly known as gossip, rumor, dis-, or misinformation) that helped elect Trump, and that currently has the media up in arms.In retrospect, Colberts bizarre appearanceas a legitimate witness in the House of Representatives before a judiciary subcommittee on farming and immigration was a precursor to another reality-TV buffoons election to the White House.Their more general contempt for every aspect of the democratic political process was the liberal version of the cynicism and the nihilism that helped project Trump into the Oval Office.
I can only assume that the writer is suffering from a severe defect in cognition, or else has never, ever heard/seen Rush Limbaugh or Fox News, which predate The Daily Show and the The Colbert Report by years.
Phillip Lozano
THE VALUE OF CONSTRUCTIVE FEEDBACK
10 resolutions for managers leading newsrooms in 2017
While we will not be on the Trump beat, much of what you wrote can yet apply to the smaller newsrooms in more remote areas such as ours. Number 10 piqued my interest greatly. I admit Im not always the best with the feedback. Indeed, we get mired down in the day-to-day operations and the need to stomp out the forest fires, so much so that we often end the day with Damn! Howd we get a paper out?
There is always room for improvement. Indeed, we may not be in a position to give great pay raises (in an industry that doesnt give great pay to begin with), but maybe we can be better and more properly influence the desired results with proper feedback.
Thanks for sharing that piece.
Richard S. Whiting
Executive Editor
Index-Journal
Greenwood, SC
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The Editors are the staffers of the Columbia Journalism Review.
Secrecy about the Thai kings health has long fueled rumors of his death, which his subjects discussed only euphemistically and in hushed tonesat least in public. When his end finally arrived last month, speaking freely about the topic got even harder.
The king, Bhumibol Adulyadej, was adored throughout his 70-year reign, and his mourners were genuinely bereft. But there was another reason nobody spoke ill of the dead: Doing so could have amounted to a felony.
Thailands lese-majeste law is the most draconian of its kind in the world. It makes defaming, insulting, or threatening the king, queen, heir apparent, or regentthe official who takes on an absent kings dutiespunishable by three to 15 years in prison; following a 2013 Thai Supreme Court ruling, the law also covers deceased monarchs whose legal status has expired.
But there is no clear definition of what constitutes an insult to the monarchy. King Bhumibols death has ushered in an era of uncertainty and trepidation for Thailand, which has lost a unifying figurehead amidst a protracted political crisis. The lese-majeste law presents a special quandary for journalists; the government has been particularly sensitive to reporting related to the succession of the kings heir, Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn, 64.
Most large news organizations with foreign bureaus in Thailand have stories about the king cleared by a legal department before publishing; some omit bylines to protect their reporters. Others simply covered the news of the kings death from a distance. New York Times San Francisco-based correspondent Thomas Fuller characterized the crown prince, who is expected to succeed his father in December, as not retaining the loyalty and support of the Thai people, prompting Thai Consul General Pornpang Kanittanong to send the paper a letter of complaint.
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BBC Thailand correspondent Jonathan Head, who has been reporting from Thailand for over a decade, expected the kings death to be sensitive, but he wasnt anticipating calls on social media to mob his office. There were no factual errors in Heads reports, in which he announced the kings death from amongst a throng of well-wishers holding vigils outside the hospital where the king was treated for years. Yet Head was summoned by a government spokesman who informed him that the tone of his coverage had been offensive because he had not expressed sufficiently strong emotions on air. Head explained that he considered weeping on-air unprofessional. The government spokesman, meanwhile, told CJR the meeting never happened.
The lese-majeste law is something we all live with, says Head, who has faced threats of being charged with lese-majeste before, but never been formally accused. Inside and outside Thailand, reporting this story would be very different if we didnt have this law. Among the topics of journalistic and public interest that are off limits are the kings cooperation with a number of military governments after coups; the mystery surrounding his brothers fatal shooting, which allowed him ascend to the throne at 18; the fact that many of his policies designed to help the poor may have been counterproductive; that his irrigation policies may have contributed to recurrent and damaging floods; or any misbehavior by his heir.
Thai citizen or not, anybody can accuse anyone else of defaming the royal family. Once that happens, the accused are in an inescapable Catch 22. Out of respect for the monarchy, each complaint must be followed by a formal investigation; police who dont do so could find themselves accused of defaming the royals. At trial, the exact nature of the insult may not be repeated, for fear of yet another violation of the law. Almost all the accused plead guilty in the hope of a lenient sentence or a royal pardon, which can only be granted by the king himself, a frequent occurrence, at least under the former ruler.
Though no foreign journalist has been jailed over such charges, three local journalists have been found guilty of royal defamation. There have also been reports of torture involving lese-majeste suspects, as well as mysterious deaths in custody. Last year, a factory worker faced up to 37 years in jail for liking an image with disparaging comments about the kings dog on Facebook; he is out on bail awaiting trial. A recent report by Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, which has taken on the unenviable task of defending lese-majeste suspects, criticized the governments decision to try such cases in military court. A member of the group is currently under investigation for alleged sedition.
Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn shares his late fathers love of dogs; it was revealed in a WikiLeaks cable that he once promoted his pet poodle, Foo Foo, to the military rank of Air Force Chief Marshal. A home video of the dogs birthday party leaked in 2007, showing the princes consort wearing nothing but a thong while feeding the dog cake, was blocked by internet censors who deemed it unflattering to the monarchy.
Thailands king is largely a symbolic figurehead who retains limited powers as head of state. The current self-appointed prime minister, General Prayuth Chan-ocha, who came to power in a bloodless coup in 2014, retains broad political powers as head of the government. The ruling military junta has applied lese-majeste laws with unprecedented scope and severity: 70 cases of lese-majeste have come under investigation in the last two years. Since the kings death, 25 people have been accused of defaming the royals, mostly involving comments on social media. By the end of October, as the country prepared for the princes succession, eight warrants had been issued for lese-majeste violations.
Shawn Crispin, Southeast Asia representative for the Committee to Protect Journalists, says the country has entered an especially intolerant period in terms of free expression. My sense is the law will be enforced more vigorously before the crowning [of the prince] and as the junta tries to steer a smooth and stable royal succession, he tells CJR.
The CPJ is particularly concerned by the ramped-up government monitoring of online and social media, royalist mobs that violently threatened people who were insufficiently sympathetic during the initial one-month government-mandated mourning period, and a justice ministers open approval of such mobs. In five recent incidents around the country, people suspected of having insulted the king were physically harassed by mobs. In one of those cases, a woman believed to be suffering from mental illness was forced off a bus and slapped.
The juntas zeal to enforce the law is ironic given that the late king himself pushed back on how the lese-majeste law was being applied. In his 2005 birthday address, he stated he would welcome public criticism. It is hard to imagine a similar sentiment from Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn, who, following his divorce, exiled his children and used the lese-majeste law to jail his ex-wifes family members for insulting the monarchy.
Its difficult for people unfamiliar with the role the king plays in Thai society to understand how deeply people there revere their king, says David Streckfuss, an independent academic specializing in Southeast Asian studies who is based in northeast Thailand. Some lese-majeste cases might simply be cases where people are not showing the expected grief, he noted, including by wearing black; standing still on public transportation when the kings song is played at 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily; wai-ing, or bowing with hands clasped in prayer, before the kings picture; or even crying at memorial events.
Companies and individuals are treading carefully. During the initial mourning period, the government requested that people wear somber clothing; black dye stations were set up around the capital, Bangkok, so people could dye their clothes. Thai paint company Beger turned its website black-and-white for several days, making its myriad color offerings visible only as shades of gray. The royal defamation law had the potential to render colors a violation, so the company proactively switched to grays as a show of respect.
Dominic Faulder, president of the Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand, points out that in addition to the law of lese-majeste, there are other ways for the government to undermine critics or political foes, including a full suite of defamation laws, exceptional powers granted by the interim constitution to the military junta, and a law that criminalizes messages sent by electronic devices that are deemed threatening to national security.
Instead of protecting only the most senior royal figures from attack and affront, as was intended, lese-majeste is being used to protect against perceived attacks on the greater monarchical institution itself, says Faulder, who has worked as a journalist in Thailand for decades, and has come under attack from royalists as well as anti-royalists. Ironically, this often serves to damage the very entity they claim to be protecting.
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Gabrielle Paluch is a 2016 Overseas Press Club Fellow, and spent six years working as a freelance reporter in Southeast Asia. A recent graduate of Columbia Universitys Graduate School of Journalism, she is currently based in NYC covering real estate.
A powerful earthquake struck New Zealands South Island early Monday, shaking awake residents, causing damage to buildings and prompting emergency services to warn people along the coast to move to higher ground to avoid tsunami waves.
The magnitude-7.8 earthquake struck in a mostly rural area close to the city of Christchurch but appeared to be more strongly felt in the capital, Wellington, more than 200 kilometers (120 miles) away. The quake was followed by a number of strong aftershocks.
The quake knocked out New Zealands emergency call number, 111, for about 10 minutes, police reported. It caused items to fall from shelves and windows to break in Wellington, and forced hundreds of tourists onto the streets as hotels were evacuated.
New Zealands Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management reported that a tsunami wave struck at about 1:50 a.m. and warned residents living in low-lying areas anywhere along the countrys east coast to move to higher ground.
The ministry had earlier sent out a message on Twitter saying there was no tsunami threat to the country. But then it sent out another message situation has changed tsunami is possible before reporting that a tsunami had, in fact, hit.
There were no immediate reports of any major damage or injuries in Christchurch.
But the quake brought back memories of a magnitude-6.3 earthquake that struck the city in 2011, destroying much of the downtown area and killing 185 people in one of New Zealands worst disasters. But Mondays quake was centered farther away from the one in 2011, which caused damage worth an estimated $25 billion.
As Mondays quake hit, Christchurch resident Hannah Gin had just sat down in her living room to watch a replay of this weekends All Blacks versus Italy rugby match when her house started shaking. Upstairs, her mother let out a scream.
Gin, a 24-year-old lifelong Christchurch resident, is accustomed to quakes, so she said she sat calmly and waited, figuring the rumbling would stop in a few seconds. Instead, the shaking just went on and on for at least three minutes, according to the clock on her phone, she said by phone.
The quake was far less violent than the one that struck her city in 2011, Gin said, adding that there was no jarring up and down or side to side, just a long, rolling sensation. But it went on for much longer than the typical quakes that strike the area, she said. She was less concerned about running for cover than she was about vomiting from the motion sickness, she said with a chuckle.
I could hear the sliding door sliding back and forth and weve got washing hanging up and I could see the washing moving, Gin said. It just kept going and going.
Her house, which was damaged in the 2011 quake, did not appear to have sustained any new damage from Mondays quake, she said. She said she had heard from many of her friends who live in the city, and all were safe.
As far as I know, everyones fine, she said. Were all just really shaken.
In Wellington, 214 kilometers (132 miles) north of the quakes epicenter, power was knocked out in some places, and some windows were smashed and some chimneys collapsed.
The quake, which struck just after midnight Sunday, was centered 93 kilometers (57 miles) northeast of Christchurch, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. It was at a relatively shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6 miles). Earthquakes tend to be more strongly felt on the surface when theyre shallow.
New Zealand sits on the Ring of Fire, an arc of seismic faults around the Pacific Ocean where earthquakes are common.
(Associated Press writer Kristen Gelineau in Sydney contributed to this report.)
Read more on past New Zealand quakes:
Lessons Learned From the Canterbury, New Zealand Earthquake
Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
A pedestrian advocacy group again seeks safety improvements after a Mississippi State University student was struck Saturday night.
Police arrested 22-year-old Jaleen Jenkins for aggravated DUI, driving with a suspended license and no proof of insurance, and have jailed him on $50,000 bond. Emily Case, a freshman political science major from Virginia, is recovering at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson.
Starkville in Motion President David Harned tells the Commercial Dispatch that the collision again shows the need for work along Blackjack and Oktoc roads. The area, on the southeast side of the university campus, has developed rapidly with 1,600 student apartments, putting more walkers and cyclists on roads now choked with traffic.
In the short term, the best thing to do is to turn that entire area into a school zone and add more lighting and striped areas for pedestrians and bicyclists to cross. For the long term, that whole area needs to be redesigned in a way to safely handle the traffic, he said.
Students say the road needs a crosswalk. On Monday, Ffion Price was among Mississippi State students crossing Oktoc and Blackjack roads near where they join in a roundabout.
Its pretty bad for a lot of the time, said Price, a second-year kinesiology graduate student. You get some drivers who do stop, but you get a lot of people that dont.
Oktibbeha County had proposed taxing area properties to add sidewalks, crosswalks, lighting and other safety improvements in 2014. But they never moved forward, in part because a third apartment complex expected to provide property taxes was never built.
District 2 Supervisor Orlando Trainer said the county may discuss paying for improvements using a recent property tax increase for roads.
Weve still got Blackjack Road on our radar, but it all comes down to money, he said.
AKRON, Ohio -- An Akron DJ pleaded guilty Monday in the beating death of a bar patron who complained of loud music.
Robert Jarvis, 65, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in the Jan. 8 death at Zodiac Bar on Triplett Boulevard, the Summit County Prosecutor's Office said.
Jarvis punched Forrest Ryan in the head three times after Ryan complained of loud music. Jarvis ran from the bar after Ryan lost consciousness, police said.
Ryan, 39, of North Canton, died of blunt force trauma to his head after paramedics took him to Akron General Hospital, the Summit County Medical Examiner's Office said.
Akron police arrested Jarvis after he returned to the bar.
Jarvis' sentencing is scheduled Dec. 28 in Summit County Common Pleas Court.
If you'd like to comment on this story, visit Monday's crime and courts comments section.
BROOK PARK, Ohio -- City officials honored Brook Park's military veterans Friday morning by renaming a bridge on Snow Road the Veterans Memorial Bridge. The bridge is located between State Route 237 and Interstate 71 in front of the Ford Motor Company Cleveland Engine Plant.
Thirty flags symbolizing the branches of service, along with the United States and POW MIA flags, whipped in a brisk wind as Mayor Tom Coyne dedicated the span alongside veterans, city administrators and council representatives. Permanent signs denoting the new name stand at each end of the overpass.
Brook Park police officer George Kosakowski, known by many in the community as Officer Kos, initiated the project and received support from American Legion Post 610, Brook Park City Council and the mayor.
Military veterans, Brook Park city officials and Mayor Tom Coyne gathered atop the newly renamed Veterans Memorial Bridge on Veterans Day.
"This is a small memento of thanks to each person and their families who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our country and our freedom," Coyne said in a press release. "This is an opportunity to recognize them and give a daily reminder of what Brook Park, Ohio, signifies."
A luncheon to honor veterans was also held on Veterans Day as part of Veterans Awareness Week. The meal was offered by council representatives Jim Astorino, Julie McCormick, Jan Powers and Tom Troyer inside the Brook Park Branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library. Approximately 35 veterans attended, joining together in conversation and sharing memories of their military service.
Air Force veteran and Brook Park resident Scott Kreidler, 62, served his country from 1974-78.
"I wanted to talk to the people and veterans and see what their service was like," he said.
Richard Novak, 80, served in the U.S. Army from 1956-58.
"I served in the time of the Cold War," Novak recalled. "I was in Germany for about a year and a half. There were some problems with Russia, and people were more concerned at that time."
Cecil "Van" Vandegrift, 79, also served in the U.S. Army but as part of its security forces from 1960-62.
Military veterans attended a luncheon on Veterans Day inside the Brook Park Branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library.
"I think it's an honor to serve to preserve our peace," Vandegrift said. "I would even recommend to young people, even though they aren't drafted, that they should serve."
Councilman Troyer explained the importance of the event.
"The veterans gave their time and energy for our country, and honoring them is the right thing to do," he said.
Gov.-elect Doug Burgum has named Mike Nowatzki, Forum Communications Bismarck bureau reporter, as the communications director on his gubernatorial staff.
Nowatzki has worked as a reporter for Forum Communications for 18 years, beginning as a reporter for the Worthington (Minn.) Daily Globe in 1998. He joined The Forum in 2002 before staffing Forum Communications Bismarck bureau in 2013, where he covered state government.
With a deep understanding of North Dakotas challenges and opportunities, Mike is uniquely qualified to advance our agenda of balancing the budget without raising taxes, diversifying the economy and implementing the Main Street Initiative, Burgum said in a statement released Monday. Mike is a strong communicator and we look forward to having him join our team.
Nowatzki, a native of Edinburg and graduate of the University of North Dakota, said hes looking forward to the job.
Doug Burgum is a visionary who has spent his life working to foster innovation and make North Dakota even more exceptional, Nowatzki said in a statement. I am truly honored by this opportunity and excited to get started.
Nowatzki will become the medias point of contact Dec. 15, the day Burgum takes the oath of office as North Dakotas 33rd governor.
Nowatzki lives in Bismarck with his family.
CLEVELAND, Ohio - The Cuyahoga County Council is expected Tuesday to approved a 10-year, power-purchase agreement with Cleveland Public Power that includes buying locally generated wind and solar power.
The clean energy would come from a yet-to-be-constructed wind farm in Lake Erie and a solar farm to be built on a brownfield in the Cleveland area.
"There's no question in my mind that it will pass," Council President Dan Brady said of the legislation.
Advocates hope the Icebreaker six-turbine wind farm will encourage the placement of more wind turbines in the Great Lakes and that Northeast Ohio will become a manufacturing center for the industry.
What are the terms of the agreement?
The agreement with Cleveland Public Power is complex. It would provide 20 to 23 percent of the electricity to 17 county buildings, including the Justice Center complex in downtown Cleveland and the Juvenile Justice Center at the corner of Quincy Avenue and East 93rd Street.
The agreement also calls for the county to construct a solar farm on a brownfield and for the farm to provide power to the county. The location of the brownfield has not been determined, but three in Cleveland and one in Brooklyn are under consideration, said Mike Foley, director of the county's department of sustainability.
The 10-year contract with Cleveland Public Power would cost an estimated $68 million, but the expectation is that it will ultimately be extended over 25 years for a total cost of about $166 million. Estimates have the county saving $2.5 million to $3.2 million over that time period, Foley said.
What do council members say?
Councilman Charles Germana said he likes the idea of converting a brownfield into an energy-producing solar farm as well as the potential for new jobs should the Great Lakes become home to more offshore wind projects.
So does councilman Dale Miller. The legislation "gives us a chance to play a part in developing two important industries, wind power and solar power," he said.
Councilman Jack Schron declined to say how he will vote, but said the biggest selling point is the promise of jobs. But if those jobs don't materialize, he said, the deal with Cleveland Public Power will need to be reconsidered.
Schron said it's very likely that the energy landscape will be much different in several years.
Councilman Dave Greenspan said he is leaning toward voting for the project, in part because he believes the county has provided sound financial numbers.
What's the timetable for Icebreaker?
Approvals for the project that would be constructed 8 to 11 miles from Cleveland's harbor are still needed from the Ohio Power Siting Board and the U.S. Department of Energy. Developers expect construction on the project to begin in 2018.
The wind farm is being developed by the nonprofit Lake Erie Energy Development Corp., but plans call for the project to be turned over to the U.S. subsidiary of a Norwegian wind development company to bring it to fruition.
Icebreaker is designed to produce 21 megawatts of power. It already has a commitment from Cleveland Public Power to buy 25 percent of the wind energy produced, while American Municipal Power has agreed to buy 30 percent. The county's purchase would come to 8.6 percent of the wind farm's output.
Tim Ryan.JPG
Niles Democratic Rep. Tim Ryan says he is considering a run for House Democratic Leader.
(Sabrina Eaton, Northeast Ohio Media Group)
WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan is considering a run for the top Democratic leadership post in the U.S. House of Representatives following his party's loss of the White House in last week and its failure to gain many legislative seats, a spokesman said.
Colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives have urged the Niles, Ohio, Democrat to seek the job held by California's Nancy Pelosi, said Ryan's spokesman Michael Zetts. Ryan is considering it.
"A lot of them are looking for change," Zetts said, adding that Ryan "has the utmost respect" for Pelosi and considers her a mentor.
Zetts declined to say who had been urging Ryan to run, referring reporters to a Huffington Post opinion piece that said he "speaks the language of disaffected blue collar voters and is also the kind of young scrappy fighter who could go toe to toe with a President Trump."
Breaking: Youngstown's @RepTimRyan is being urged to challenge @NancyPelosi & he just might do it. Here's y he shld https://t.co/jryVYke7Nv Krystal Ball (@krystalball) November 13, 2016
"He is taking it seriously," said Zetts. "He is having conversations, but he hasn't made any decisions."
Although Ryan has been a member of Congress since 2003 and serves on the House Appropriations Committee, he has not held any prior positions in the House Democratic party's leadership hierarchy. And while Pelosi routinely raises more than $100 million for Democratic candidates in each election cycle, Ryan's "Penguin PAC" and congressional campaign combined gave less than $40,000 to Democratic candidates and committees over the past two years, according to data compiled by PoliticalMoneyline.com.
In past years, Ryan repeatedly floated his name as a potential candidate for U.S. Senate and Ohio governor at junctures when his party did not have an incumbent seeking re-election to those posts. A senior Democratic aide suggested Ryan is putting his name in the mix to boost his profile for a potential gubernatorial run.
When asked whether Ryan is considering a run for governor in two years, Zetts said Ryan has "not been talking about that, but it is always something that people are calling on him to do."
Pelosi announced last week that the party will conduct its leadership elections on Nov. 17.
Zetts said that Ryan was among several dozen Democrats who asked Pelosi to postpone the leadership election so Democrats could better decide how to react after last week's election results.
While making calls to ask that other Democrats sign a letter urging a delay of the leadership election, Zetts said "a lot of members urged him to run." Zetts said Ryan subsequently withdrew his name from the letter because he didn't want the effort to be perceived as veiled endorsement for his candidacy, and wrote Pelosi a private letter to request the delay.
A Pelosi spokesman declined comment on Ryan's interest in the race and said the leadership election is still scheduled for Thursday.
osuintlstudent.jpg
An international student studies at Ohio State University, ranked first in Ohio and 18th in the nation for international student enrollment.
(Ohio State University )
CLEVELAND, Ohio - The number of international students enrolled in U.S. universities in 2015 exceeded 1 million for the first time.
The growing number of students are primarily from China, India and Saudi Arabia, according to the annual Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange, published by the Institute of International Education.
The 1,043,839 students enrolled in U.S. colleges in 2015 represented a 7.1 percent increase from 2014, the report said.
See the data below or click here if on a mobile device.
Ohio has the eighth-largest foreign student enrollment with 37,752 students, a 5.6 percent increase from 2014. The state rank has remained unchanged for several years.
Most students came into the state from China (39.1 percent), India (17.7 percent) and Saudi Arabia (13.4 percent).
Ohio State University had 7,117 international students, ranking first in the state and 18th in the U.S.
The University of Cincinnati ranked second in the state with 3,932 international students. It was followed by Kent State University (3,397 students), Case Western Reserve University (2,447) and Wright State University (2,439).
U.S. colleges seek international students to bolster enrollment and their budgets, for those students generally pay full tuition and fees.
While Saudi Arabia, which ranked third, sent 61,287 students to the U.S. in 2015, many colleges have seen declines in enrollment this year as the country's new king, facing steep declines in oil prices, greatly reduced government-sponsored scholarships.
The Saudi scholarship program, which is funded through 2020, includes room, board, tuition and travel and living costs.
Here are highlights from the report
2015 is the 10th consecutive year of international student growth.
There are now 85 percent more international students studying in the United States than 10 years ago.
International students now represent just over 5 percent of the more than 20 million students enrolled in colleges.
More than a third of international students studied engineering, math or computer science.
China remains the top sending country, with almost twice the number of students in the U.S. as India.
The expansion of a government scholarship programs led to 8.2 percent more students coming from Kuwait.
Students from China, India, and Saudi Arabia represent approximately 53 percent of the international students in the United States.
Students from Iran increased by 8.2 percent to 12,269, the highest U.S. enrollment by Iranians in 29 years, but still significantly lower than the peak of more than 50,000 students in 1979/80.
The largest drop was students from Brazil, which declined 18.2 percent, primarily due to the freeze in a government program which had sponsored many students.
About 75 percent of all international students receive the majority of their funds from sources outside of the United States, including personal and family sources as well as assistance from their home country governments or universities.
In 2015, 255 colleges hosted 1,000 or more international students, compared to 143 in 2005.
More than 313,000 U.S. students received credit last year for study abroad during 2014-15, an increase of nearly three percent over the previous year.
Europe continues to host more than half of all for U.S. students going abroad, with about a third of all U.S. students choosing the United Kingdom, Italy, or Spain.
For more data, infographics and resources on the 2016 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange, visit www.iie.org/ Open-Doors.
Cleveland Connects
The panel begins at 6 p.m. Nov. 14 at the Westfield Insurance Studio Theater at the Idea Center at Playhouse Square, with a reception preceding it at 5 p.m.
Admission: Free, but seating is limited, so register at cleveland.com/clevelandconnects.
Watch live online: Check back here to watch a live stream of the program beginning at 6 p.m.
Watch on TV: WVIZ/PBS will broadcast the program Nov. 14 beginning at 7:30 p.m. The Ohio Channel will broadcast the program Nov. 20 at 9 a.m. and Nov. 22 at 10 p.m.
Listen on radio: 90.3 WCPN will broadcast the program at 9:00 p.m. Nov. 14.
CLEVELAND, Ohio - The first 2,000 days of life is the most formative for the development of a child.
Monday evening a panel of experts will discuss what Northeast Ohio has learned the last 365 or so days about those 2,000 days and what action the region needs to take to better foster development.
Here's a look at the panel.
Akram Boutros is the CEO of The MetroHealth System, the public hospital system most focused on care for the poor. Boutros assumed his post in June 2013. He has more than 20 years of leadership experience in large community hospitals, specialty hospitals and academic medical centers.
Sharon Sobol Jordan is chief of staff for Cuyahoga County Executive Armond Budish. She previously was president and CEO at The Centers for Families and Children, one of the oldest and largest nonprofit organizations in Northeast Ohio. Under her leadership the organization served 20,000 people each year through 18 different locations across Greater Cleveland.
Experts agree that the region's awareness of the importance of early childhood development has been raised. That's important given that child development in the first 2,000 days sets a child's course for the rest of their life. Four experts in child development, from left, Akram Boutros, Sharon Sobol Jordan, Eric Gordon and Thea Wilson, will gather Monday to discuss what needs to happen next.
Eric Gordon is the CEO of the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. He took the job in June 2011 after serving as the district's chief academic officer for four years. As CEO, he is responsible for the leadership and daily management of Cleveland's 39,000-student school district.
Thea Wilson is the vice president for children and families at the Council for Economic Opportunities in Greater Cleveland. Wilson is responsible for managing the operations of Early Head Start, Head Start and Parental Involvement programs. Wilson has nearly 40 years of early childhood development experience in a public school system and spent 11 years in administration.
For a year, cleveland.com, 90.3 WCPN, WVIZ/PBS ideastream, and The Plain Dealer have explored the science, best practices and economics of early childhood education as part of Cleveland Connects: The First 2,000 Days, sponsored by PNC Bank.
Together the partners have produced dozens of stories for online, print and broadcast on topics including measuring pre-school quality, the costs associated with running quality pre-K programs, the importance of good nutrition for kids, the dangers of lead paint and the benefits of breastfeeding. That effort also has included a pair of panels broadcast on WCPN and WVIZ by ideastream.
Monday's panel discussion will ask three questions:
What are the top assets and challenges affecting children who are 5 years old or younger?
What has been done over the last year to address those challenges?
Looking ahead, what requires more attention and effort and on what targets should the region focus?
The panel will be moderated by Mike McIntyre, the host of WCPN's "The Sound of Ideas."
Bill Isler, CEO of The Fred Rogers Company and a longtime professional educator and advocate for children, presented the keynote address at the first forum in the 2,000 days series.
"If any society is going to continue to be great, it is going to be a result of what our children do in the years to come," Isler said then. Preparing them in those first 2,000 days is a responsibility "of all of us. Not some of us. All of us."
Isler will deliver a special message to the panel for Monday's forum.
JBM5101(c)Jean-Baptiste-Millot.jpg
Not a Baroque toccata or fugue in sight. Instead, Sunday afternoon at the Cleveland Museum of Art, organist Jean-Baptiste Monnot performed arrangements of music by Prokofiev, Scriabin, Tchaikovsky, and Mussorgsky.
(Jean-Baptiste Millot )
By MARK SATOLA
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Sunday afternoon's recital by organist Jean-Baptiste Monnot on the Cleveland Museum of Art's McMyler Memorial Organ offered an unexpected program of transcriptions of Russian music. Not a Baroque toccata or fugue in sight.
Monnot, who is in his early thirties, performed arrangements of music by Prokofiev, Scriabin, Tchaikovsky and Mussorgsky. Most of the transcriptions were by the eminent French organist and composer Jean Guillout (born 1930), although Monnet also demonstrated his own skills translating piano music by Scriabin for the king of instruments.
The artist holds important posts on either side of the Atlantic, as titular organist of St. Ouen Church in Rouen (where he is in charge of a magnificent Cavaille-Coll instrument), and as artist-in-residence at the Cathedral of St. Louis in New Orleans. Add to his resume important teaching posts and a raft of well-received recitals, and you have a sense of the anticipation that preceded his appearance Sunday.
As an arranger, Guillout is nothing if not adventurous, more than willing, in fact, to take risks, and his version of Prokofiev's Toccata in D Minor for piano set the tone for Monnot's hour-long program.
Without the sharp, percussive attack characteristic of the piano, it was left to Monnot to bring out the motoric rhythm and propulsion of the piece, which he did to good effect, displaying considerable elan as he flew through the music and its many abrupt changes of register.
Monnot's own transcriptions of two well-known early piano pieces by Scriabin found the music's pathos underscored by the timbre of the instrument, with judicious application of tremulo to add a vocal quality to Scriabin's singing lines. Monnot, of course, played these two hothouse orchids with depth of feeling and understanding.
The transcription of the Scherzo from Tchaikovsky's "Pathetique" Symphony presents some problems for the performer, mostly having to do with the amount of activity that two hands and two feet must accomplish.
With, perhaps, the impetuosity of relative youth, Monnot set himself a breakneck pace that inevitably resulted in some minute interruptions of the rhythmic impulse as Monnot's hands flew from manual to manual and registration combinations were applied. The final result, however, was triumphant, and Monnot's achievement not a little heroic.
Sunday afternoon's recital marked the third time Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition" had been played in the Cleveland area in the space of a week, the first time in its original version by pianist Alexander Ghindin and the second an unlikely but surprisingly successful transcription for solo guitar by Kazuhito Yamashita. The work has very likely had more arrangements, ranging from appropriate to bizarre, than any other composition.
Guillou's arrangement for organ, made in the late 1980s, is well-regarded and highly effective, and Monnot played it with panache. To single out individual moments of felicity would simply entail listing the work's ten sections, but special note must be made of the languorous serenade of "The Old Castle," the fleet impressionism of "Tuileries" and "The Marketplace at Limoges," the weighty oratory of "Samuel Goldberg and Schmuyle" and the heavy and heroic tread of "Bydlo," all of which demonstrated Monnot's exceptional interpretive skills.
Of course, the hell-for-leather chase of "The Hut on Fowl's Legs (Baba Yaga)" and the brazen climax of "The Great Gate of Kiev" could hardly fail to please, and Monnot proved an ideal interpreter of Guillot's all-stops-out rendering.
Not surprisingly, considering Monnot's mighty labors over the course of the recital, there was no encore.
MOUNTAIN VIEW, California -- A history and special education teacher was put on paid administrative leave last week after he gave a lesson comparing the rise of Donald Trump to Adolf Hitler.
A parent sent an email to administrators at Mountain View High School expressing concern after Frank Navarro, who has been teaching there for 40 years, gave the lesson, the San Jose Mercury News reports.
Navarro said the parent complained that he told kids that "Donald Trump grabs p----," a claim he denies. He also said the parent mistakenly believes he said Trump was Hitler, sfgate.com reports.
"This parent said that I had said Donald Trump was Hitler, but I would never say that," Navarro said. "That's sloppy historical thinking."
But a student tells the high school's newspaper, the Oracle, that when he tried to tell Navarro that he agrees with some of Trump's policies, Navarro told him to "shut up or said something super rude."
Navarro, a Mexican-American, denies making the comments to the student.
"This feels like we're trying to squash free speech," Navarro said. "Everything I talk about is factually based. They can go and check it out. It's not propaganda or bias if it's based on hard facts."
Many students and others are defending Navarro, the Mercury News reports. A petition on change.org calling for his return had more than 22,000 signatures as of early Sunday morning.
The Mountain View/Los Altos High School District superintendent tells the Mercury News that Navarro could return to the classroom as soon as Monday.
Deputy Killed
IStanislaus County Sheriff's deputy Dennis Wallace and his wife, Mercedes, stand at Gemperle Fields in Turlock, Calif., in February 2016. Dennis Wallace, a 20-year-veteran, was fatally shot at point-blank range Sunday as he checked on a report of a suspicious van parked near a fishing access spot outside the city of Hughson.
(Joan Barnett Lee, Modesto Bee via AP)
MODESTO, California -- A 37-year-old man accused of shooting a sheriff's deputy twice in the head was captured Sunday after a statewide manhunt, reports say.
David Machado Jr., 37, was caught in an alley in Lindsay, Calif., after he attempted to rob a woman of her purse outside a convenience store, about 150 miles from the scene of the deputy's shooting, the Sacramento Bee reports.
Machado is accused of killing Stanislaus County Sheriff's Deputy Dennis Wallace, 53, on Sunday morning, according to Fox News.
Sheriff Adam Christianson tells reporters that Wallace was checking on a report of a suspicious van Sunday morning near Hughson, which is about 10 miles southeast of Modesto.
Wallace discovered the vehicle was stolen and called for backup. Moments later, he was shot twice in the head, before backup arrived.
"We know the gun used in the crime was in direct contact with [Wallace's] head when the trigger was pulled twice," Christianson said during a news conference, according to Fox News. "This was a direct execution."
Authorities say Machado is a known criminal and already was wanted on a felony warrant for unspecified crimes. Police tell reporters that after shooting Wallace, Machado carjacked a 2009 Kia Rio and also robbed a convenience store before attempting the purse robbery.
Wallace was a 20-year veteran at the sheriff's department, the Associated Press reports. He had a wife and children.
"Where does it stop? Where does it end?" Christianson said. "These men and women put their lives on the line every day to stand between good and evil."
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North Olmsted resident Tim Labrado, mission director at Friends Church, poses with Chuck and Ann Palmer, also of North Olmsted, with some items for the Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes. The Palmers are area coordinators for the project and members of Friends Church.
(Carol Kovach, special to cleveland.com)
NORTH OLMSTED, Ohio - "It's in our blood."
That's how Ann and Chuck Palmer describe their 16-year involvement with Operation Christmas Child. The Olmsted Falls couple, who are members of North Olmsted Friends Church, are area coordinators for the ministry, which means they are responsible for operations in 10 Ohio counties.
Volunteers move in assembly-line fashion to fill shoeboxes at North Olmsted Friends Church.
"We like to do this," said Ann Palmer. "The children here are doing something to help children around the world."
Operation Christmas Child is a project of Samaritan's Purse, a non-denominational Christian relief and evangelism organization headed by Franklin Graham, son of evangelist Billy Graham. The Palmers said Operation Christmas Child demonstrates God's love in a tangible way to children in need around the world.
On Nov. 12, dozens of volunteers from North Olmsted Friends Church, American Heritage Girls (an organization similar to Girl Scouts) and the community spent hours packing the OCC shoeboxes. The goal is to prepare 9.6 million shoeboxes across the country and 12 million worldwide for distribution this year to children in more than 150 countries and territories. Ann Palmer said the children are suffering from poverty, natural disasters, war, terror, disease and famine. "For many, these are the first gifts they will receive," she added.
Chuck Palmer and other volunteers spent a few days assembling hundreds of red, white and green OCC shoeboxes. The local group purchased the boxes in bulk, then assembled and stacked them in neat rows along a wall in the church hall. He said sometimes people bring their own boxes and fill them.
Tom Dubowski of North Olmsted, left, helps North Olmsted resident Terry Graffis load filled cartons onto a two-wheeler before heading to the parking lot where a truck awaits.
Volunteers decide if they want to prepare a box for a girl or a boy and they select one of three age groups: 2-4, 5-9 or 10-14 years old. Then they select the appropriate items to fill the box. Each box includes a coloring book, school supplies, hygiene items including a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, wash cloth and comb; an article of clothing and a toy. Boxes also may contain notes of encouragement. After filling the boxes, volunteers offer a prayer for those who will receive them.
Chuck Palmer said in addition to the boxes filled on Nov. 12, hundreds of additional filled boxes will be brought to the church this week. The congregation will offer prayers for the boxes' recipients before they are prepared for shipping.
The American Heritage Girls, who meet in Rocky River, made no-sew fabric purses for the boxes. A Friends Church member sewed cotton dresses and another volunteer crocheted or knitted items, including hats, to be added to the boxes. In addition, prisoners at Grafton Correctional Institution sewed cloth dolls and crafted thousands of small, wooden toys for the boxes. Ann Palmer prepares small sewing kits containing thread, needles, a small pair of scissors, buttons, snaps and other small items.
Sheila Farrell of North Ridgeville packs filled boxes into a shipping carton.
"They really appreciate those items," she said.
Friends Church members collect items for the boxes throughout the year. The Palmers said a collection box is placed in the church and members are informed about what item will be collected that month, hygiene, toys, school supplies, etc. the boxes are stored at the church until needed for packing the shoe boxes.
"In February, people fill jars with their loose change to help pay for the shipping costs for the boxes," Ann Palmer said.
Those who fill the shoeboxes have no idea where they will wind up, the Palmers said. A bar code is attached to each box. The code is scanned in Charlotte, North Carolina, one of nine processing centers in the United States. By tracking the bar code online at samaritanspurse.org/occ, local OCC volunteers can learn to which country their shoeboxes were shipped.
Filled shoeboxes are placed into packing cartons, which are stacked in tractor-trailer trucks for transport to Charlotte. Once received at the processing center, each box is checked to ensure there is nothing harmful inside, placed back in the shipping cartons and those cartons are stacked in shipping containers, which are sent to various countries.
Dave Swartz of North Ridgeville, OCC collection center coordinator, said about 350 packed cartons, each containing about two dozen shoeboxes, will fill a truck trailer. "We hope to fill four semis this year," he added.
American Heritage Girls pray over some filled gift boxes.
It takes about five to six weeks to assemble, fill, collect, process and ship the boxes around the world, Chuck Palmer said.
Once the boxes reach their destination, Ann Palmer said volunteers bring them to the children. "Everyone gets a comic-type book that tells about Jesus," she said. The books are prepared in more than 75 languages. After the youngsters read the books, she said there is a countdown and then they all open their shoeboxes at once.
"It's a scene filled with joy," she said. The Palmers have visited missions in the Philippines and Somalia and witnessed the children opening the boxes. "They are so excited; it's like bedlam," she said. "If it's 100 degrees and the box contains a knit hat or gloves, they wear them because they are so excited. No one knows what's in the boxes, so it's always a big surprise."
Chuck Palmer said a 12-week discipleship program to teach the children about Jesus and Christianity follows distribution of the boxes.
Since its creation in 1993, the Palmers said Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 135 million shoeboxes worldwide. "The only place I can think of where we haven't sent boxes is Antarctica," Chuck Palmer said.
Visit samaritanspurse.org/occ for more information on the ministry, to make a donation, pack a shoebox gift online, track a filled box or upload a photo and note of encouragement.
Bernie Sanders said he is "humiliated" by the Democratic Party's inability to connect with working class voters. Donald Trump speaks with Vladimir Putin by phone. Mike Pence pushes for email privacy. Read more in today's Politics Extra.
Sanders' humiliation: Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont said Monday he is "deeply humiliated" by the Democratic Party's inability to connect with white working-class voters, reports Politico. President-elect Donald Trump successfully tapped into the anger and angst of this demographic, helping propel him to the presidency over Democrat Hillary Clinton.
"I think there needs to be a profound change in the way the Democratic Party does business," Sanders told CBS This Morning. "It is not good enough to have a liberal elite. I come from the white working class, and I am deeply humiliated that the Democratic Party cannot talk to the people where I came from."
Ellison announces: U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison of Minnesota formally announced his candidacy to be chairman of the Democratic National Committee, according to Politico. In a statement released Monday, Ellison said that if elected, "I will work tirelessly to make the Democratic Party an organization that brings us together and advances an agenda that improves people's lives." The congressman, who played a prominent role in Sanders' presidential campaign, has already been endorsed by Sens. Sanders, Chuck Schumer and Harry Reid. Sen. Elizabeth Warren also said Ellison would make a "terrific" chairman.
Improving relations with Russia: Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed in a telephone conversation Monday that relations between their countries were "unsatisfactory" and vowed to work together to improve them, the Kremlin said in a statement, according to The Washington Post. The statement said the two leaders discussed combining efforts in the fight against terrorism, talked about a "settlement for the crisis in Syria" and agreed their aides would begin working toward a face-to-face meeting between them.
Pence pushes for email privacy: Vice President-elect Mike Pence is seeking to keep secret the contents of an email relating to Indiana's participation, at his behest, in a lawsuit to block President Barack Obama's executive actions on immigration, reports Politico. Pence's efforts to shield an email from public scrutiny, which have so far been upheld by state courts, follow an election in which Clinton was hounded for her use of a private email server.
Obama affirms Trump's commitment to NATO: President Obama said Monday that the United States would remain the world's "indispensable" power and that President-elect Trump had told him he was committed to NATO, reports CNN. "In my conversations with the president-elect, he expressed a great interest in maintaining our core strategic relationships," Obama said in a press conference before his last international trip as president.
Obama also said it would not be appropriate for him to weigh in on all of Trump's appointments because it would be incompatible to his desire to provide a smooth transition of power to his successor. "I think it is important for us to let him make his decisions. The American people will judge over the course of the next couple of years whether they like what they see," he said.
In need of further assistance: Obama will spend extra time prepping Trump ahead of transferring the keys to the White House in January, according to a Wall Street Journal report. During their meeting last week, Trump seemed surprised by the scope of the job. Reporter Michael C. Bender said Trump aides did not know that the entire West Wing had to be hired. Obama concluded that Trump needs more guidance and plans to spend more time with his successor than presidents typically do, people familiar with the matter said.
Stop it: Trump said Sunday he was aware of reports that some of his supporters may be harassing Latinos, Muslims and members of other minority groups, and said that development just stop immediately, reports NBC News. In an interview with 60 Minutes, Trump said such behavior represented only a "very small amount" of his support, but that any was unacceptable. "Don't do it," the president-elect said. "That's terrible, because I'm going to bring this country together." To reinforce the point, Trump looked directly at the camera and demanded, "Stop it."
Women's and LGBTQ rights: In the same interview, Trump weighed in on two of the most controversial social issues the Supreme Court has ever considered, reports CNN. His answers about same-sex marriage and abortion could leave conservatives worried.
Trump indicated he is "fine" with the high court's opinion legalizing same-sex marriage and called it "settled," but committed to appointing justices who want to change the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling affirming abortion rights. He said if the decision is overturned, the issue will be returned to the states. When asked about women who would not be able to get an abortion, Trump said, "Well perhaps they have to go to another state."
#NeverTrump: Two Democratic members of the Electoral College have launched a last-ditch attempt to stop Trump from winning the presidency, reports Politico. Bret Chiafolo of Washington state and Michael Baca of Colorado have launched what they have dubbed "Moral Electors," an attempt to persuade 37 of their Republican colleagues to bail on Trump - just enough to block Trump's election and leave the final decision to the House of Representatives. They already have the support of a third elector, Washington State's Robert Satiacum.
Trump and Christie: In CNN's upcoming book, "Unprecedented: The Election that Changed Everything," CNN reporters reveal that Trump told New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie in 2015 that he did not expect to make it in the GOP primary season past October. At that point, Trump would endorse Christie, according to a Christie adviser. "I think they always had an understanding that the first one out would probably endorse the other," the adviser said.
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Republican state representative candidate Cassandra McDonald surprised Republicans with an election night Facebook post stating that she is a "Democrat through and through," sharing a photo of herself at a Hillary Clinton campaign rally. McDonald later resigned from the Republican Party of Cuyahoga County's central committee.
(Facebook)
COLUMBUS, Ohio--Republican state representative candidate Cassandra McDonald resigned from the Cuyahoga County Republican Party Central Committee last week after making a revelation on social media: she's actually a Democrat.
McDonald revealed herself on Facebook after losing to Democratic Rep. Kent Smith in House District 8. Smith won re-election with about 80 percent of the vote.
"You believed in me enough to earn your vote running as a Republican even though I am a Democrat through and through," McDonald wrote in an election night post accompanied by a photo showing her at a Hillary Clinton campaign rally.
McDonald later stated that she resigned from the Republican Party on Friday after "only being affiliated with them during the primary election for the most part."
She explained: "I ran on the Republican ticket because I knew that if Trump won, it was vital to begin building a stronger presence of minority representation in legislation within the Republican party. ...Understand that we continue to elect people in office who are true Republicans at heart, but have concealed themselves to be Democrat. The only thing I did was flipped the script of what has been done for so long."
Republican Party of Cuyahoga County spokesman Doug Magill confirmed that McDonald resigned from the county GOP's central committee, which she joined within the past year.
"She got past our scanning committee," Magill said. "Apparently she just wasn't honest with us. It's kind of unfortunate, but things happen."
Magill said McDonald "kind of disappeared on us" about a week or two before the election. He said he believes she was disturbed that the Republicans nominated Donald Trump for president.
"But at no point did she tell us that she was a Democrat through and through," Magill said. "That was news to us on Facebook."
McDonald told cleveland.com on Monday morning that she wouldn't be available to speak until later in the day. But on Facebook, she called her legislative campaign a "wonderful experience.
"This is the beginning of a very successful career in politics," she wrote.
At least 300 people gathered at the state Capitol on an unseasonably warm Sunday afternoon to show their support for law enforcement officers policing the Dakota Access Pipeline protests.
"They're working to protect all of us, not just the farmers and the ranchers and the small town people that live in the area of the protest," said Sen. John Hoeven, R-N.D., who spoke at the rally along with Rep. Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., and Lt. Gov. Drew Wrigley. "They're protecting the protesters, too. They're protecting the very right to protest."
"But the key is this: When we exercise our First Amendment rights, it needs to be done peacefully," Hoeven continued, his comments met with cheers from the crowd.
Hoeven made special mention of the diverse law enforcement agencies police, sheriff's departments, highway patrol, National Guard, corrections, emergency services, Bureau of Criminal Investigations, federal agents and their families, who have been involved in the protests since August.
"When we have a long event like we've had ... our spouses are serving, too. And the anxiety that goes with that, that's service for those families, as well," he said.
The event began with about two dozen motorcyclists from the Patriot Guard and the Christian Motorcyclist Association circling the crowd, which was made up of officers, their families and supporters.
Among the motorcyclists was Butch Kramer, of Bismarck, who noted the long-standing stress for the officers.
"They've had a tough time here the last few months," Kramer said. "We want them to know that we love them, we care about them and we pray for their protection."
Though not all shared the same views about the pipeline, many said they approved of the job police have performed, despite the criticism police have received from protesters, tribal leaders and civil liberties groups, who believe the response has been heavy-handed and militarized.
"I absolutely support Kyle Kirchmeier and all the work that police have done," said Ann Kreidt, of Hebron, who believes the pipeline should be rerouted.
Kreidt is worried a spill would contaminate the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe's water supply -- one of the key motivators behind the protest -- but she's been frustrated by some of the protesters' actions, which she believes has forced police to use tactics like pepper spray and tear gas.
"It makes me sad ... They could have tried harder to do it by the right means, to follow the right way to do it, rather than slashing tires and closing highways," she said. "I'm your tree hugging liberal that also loves cops."
Dennis Allen, of Mandan, is for the pipeline, which he believes is a relatively safe way to transport oil. He's also for protest: He's rallied for legalizing marijuana and repealing Obamacare.
But he's angry that the protests have led to road closures, which have affected farmers and ranchers, and thinks police are justified in their actions.
"I don't like it," he said of the riot-control policing. "But what was the instigating factor? So far, it's always been 'trespassed onto private property, refused to move.' They start damaging things all because they're protecting the water? That's not good enough."
Bismarck Police Officer Scarlett Vetter attended the rally in her uniform and said it was meaningful to be thanked for her work. She said many other officers who couldn't be there would learn about the event and feel the support through reports on social media.
"Unfortunately, when I deal with the community, it's always for my job, whether taking enforcement action or responding to calls," she said. "It's kind of nice to come here as a police officer on a more positive note."
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Former NYC mayor Rudy Giuliani speaks to the Cleveland Police Patrolman's Association October 4, 2016 as the CPPA and the Ohio FOP announce their endorsement of Donald Trump for President.
( David Petkiewicz, cleveland.com)
President-elect Donald Trump's administration could affect Cleveland's police reform settlement. Analysts examine how Trump turned out the vote in rural Ohio, while Hillary Clinton couldn't make up the difference. Both Democrats and Republicans were caught by surprise after Tuesday's election results. Read more in today's Ohio Politics Roundup, brought to you by Robin Goist.
Say goodbye to the consent decree? The new U.S. Justice Department under President-elect Donald Trump's administration would have a difficult time dissolving Cleveland's police-reform settlement - but that doesn't mean some, including the police union, won't try, writes cleveland.com's Eric Heisig.
Trump's repeated comments about strong police and his surrogates' backing of controversial policies such as stop-and-frisk policing won him an unusual endorsement from the Cleveland Police Patrolmen's Association, the union representing the city's rank-and-file officers, and the same union whose president sits on a board responsible for making reform recommendations.
The endorsement - in a city where residents voted overwhelmingly last week for Democrat Hillary Clinton - created a rift between the union and a separate group that represents black officers on the force.
"I'm not sure what to expect about how it might be," said Matthew Barge, who heads a team monitoring the city's progress under the consent decree. "Ultimately, the most important participants remain the city and the police department."
Steve Loomis, a Trump supporter and Cleveland police union president, appeared emboldened Thursday about the effect Trump's victory could have on the department. He said the union's attorneys are "looking at the possibilities, if there are any possibilities, for some kind of change to the consent decree."
Northeast Ohio's Muslims express concern: Comments that Trump made on the campaign trail regarding a potential shutdown of Muslim immigration, and his remarks about requiring Muslim registration and identity cards, are still valid in the minds of the 3.3 million American Muslims, including some in Cleveland, reports The Plain Dealer's Brian Albrecht.
"I've been here 36 years and this is the first time I feel scared for America and for us (Muslims)," said Maha Droubi, a member of the local Syrian community who helped organize NEOSOS, a group aiding Syrian refugees settling in Northeast Ohio. "What I'm afraid of is that the hate toward Muslims will be more obvious, more clear."
"The culture of America is not built upon hate and anti-immigrant sentiment and sidelining a religious community, which Trump has done," said Ahmad Deeb, director of the Islamic Society of Akron and Kent.
Cleveland.com's Peter Krouse also talked with some members of Cleveland's Muslim community on Election Night, as it was clear that Trump would emerge victorious.
Twitter S/O: The president-elect gave a shout out to Ohio Gov. John Kasich on Twitter Sunday.
Governor John Kasich of the GREAT, GREAT, GREAT State of Ohio called to congratulate me on the win. The people of Ohio were incredible! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2016
Yep, you read that right: THREE greats.
The post was the third and most enthusiastic in a series of posts in which Trump recognized congratulatory messages he has received from his former critics, including 2012 GOP nominee Mitt Romney and former primary rival Jeb Bush.
And he has good reason to be thankful: Trump's performance in Ohio surprised politicos in the Buckeye State, including those in the Ohio GOP and Trump's campaign.
Republicans react: "I thought he'd win Ohio, but I didn't think it would be by as much as it was," said Ohio Republican Party Chairman Matt Borges, according to The Toledo Blade's Jim Provance.
"I think a lot of us maybe missed some of the extra appeal that Donald Trump had even with Democrats, and then... Republicans still came out and voted for Donald Trump, even if they might not have liked him that much," said Borges, who supported Kasich during the primaries and had been a harsh critic of Trump. "They wanted change."
Democrats were also caught by surprise. After Tuesday night's results, Ohio Democratic Party Chairman David Pepper pointed to Trump's campaign message, "Make America Great Again," and how, "I don't think on our side there was ever that same simple, positive message that got our voters excited."
Aaron Pickrell, Clinton's senior campaign adviser in Ohio, was also convinced until 10 p.m. Tuesday that the former secretary of state would be the next president.
"We went into the election in Ohio a couple points down. It was 43-41 [percent] with a lot of undecideds," he said. "Undecideds broke for Trump about 80-20, which is crazy."
Florida, Florida, Florida: Meanwhile, Trump's campaign was scrambling Election Night to mobilize an Ohio-led team to rush to Florida when it appeared the Sunshine State might be headed toward a recount similar to what decided the 2000 presidential election, writes The Columbus Dispatch's Darrel Rowland.
Robert Paduchik, the man who engineered Trump's easy win in Ohio, also managed George W. Bush's successful Ohio campaigns in 2000 and 2004, so he was a part of the team that traveled to Florida for the recount 16 years ago.
"I thought we were going to do a recount in Florida. I got a call from our war room in New York saying, 'Man, Florida is going to be under 50,000 (votes separating Trump and Clinton), and we're going to need a crew down there. Can you put a crew together...?'
"I was ready to pack a bag and hop on an airplane. That's why I only had one beer. I thought I might be jumping on a plane somewhere," Paduchik told The Dispatch.
Analyzing the Mahoning Valley's vote: Although Clinton eked out a three-point victory in Mahoning County, she would have been crushed by Trump were it not for the city of Youngstown, writes The Vindicator's David Skolnick.
The county's largest city delivered 17,905 of Clinton's 56,188 votes in Mahoning, which was one of only seven in Ohio to go blue this year.
In 2012, President Obama didn't lose a single precinct in Youngstown, or in the suburbs of Austintown and Struthers. Clinton still managed to sweep every precinct in Youngstown, but she only won 9 of 12 in Struthers - winning one by 3 votes and losing another by 1 vote. In Austintown, she won 18 precincts, lost 14 and tied in one.
Just north of Mahoning: Trumbull County, which voted overwhelmingly for Obama in 2008 and 2012, backed Trump this year. Cleveland.com's Andrew J. Tobias went there last week to ask voters about their county shifting from a former Obama stronghold to supporting the GOP candidate.
"It's voters like these, betting that Trump will deliver on his promises to revive American manufacturing, who ultimately helped Trump win the industrial Midwest and send him to the White House," Tobias writes.
From the industrial to the rural: Trump flipped the Rust Belt battlegrounds of Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania by boosting the rural vote, and Clinton just couldn't make up the difference, reports cleveland.com's Jackie Borchardt and Rich Exner.
Take Michigan's rural Lake County, for example. Obama won the county in 2012, 52 to 47 percent, but Trump flipped it this year with 59 percent of the vote compared to Clinton's 36 percent, according to the unofficial count.
Kyle Kondik, a political analyst at the University of Virginia's Center for Politics, expects Ohio to lean Republican in future presidential elections because of its demographics. While the three major cities of Cincinnati, Columbus and Cleveland are reliably blue, those Democratic voting populations are smaller than in other states' large cities.
Kondik, a Northeast Ohio native, also pointed to Ohio's Appalachian region, which bolstered Trump's win, for the state's growing Republican shift. He predicts Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania will take Ohio's spot as battleground swing states.
More red for a reason: Cleveland.com's Rich Exner and Peter Krouse analyze factors such as education, race, religion, immigration and union membership to help explain the political differences between voters in Ohio and those in Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
Meet Stephen Hadley: Former National Security Adviser Stephen Hadley - a South Euclid native - has repeatedly been listed among the candidates Trump is considering for defense secretary, and cleveland.com's Sabrina Eaton has five things to know about him.
Get Battleground Briefing, our FREE politics newsletter, delivered to your inbox: Sign up here. Tips or links? Send here. Follow along on Twitter: @robingoist
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- The man Gov. John Kasich entrusted as the state's first ever director of Medicaid is stepping aside after six years.
Medicaid Director John McCarthy is leaving sometime in December to "pursue opportunities in the private sector," Kasich's office said Monday.
Former state Rep. Barbara Sears, a Sylvania Republican who previously worked on healthcare and Medicaid legislation, has been tapped to replace him. Sears resigned from the House earlier this year to join Kasich's Office of Health Transformation.
Nearly 3 million poor and disabled Ohioans receive health insurance coverage through Medicaid. Ohio will spend more than $19 billion this fiscal year on the program -- a little more than half of the state's total general revenue fund spending.
Under Kasich, the Medicaid department became an independent cabinet agency and McCarthy was its first director. McCarthy oversaw the state's expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act.
The department has saved Ohio taxpayers more than $3 billion and slowed growth of the program to 3.3 percent, according to the Kasich administration.
"I'm grateful we've had John leading one of our largest state programs over the majority of my time in office, and thanks to his leadership, our most vulnerable Ohioans are better served and the program now rests on strong financial footing," Kasich said in a statement.
Sears served in the Ohio House as the majority floor leader and chairwoman of the House Insurance and Joint Medicaid Oversight committees. When House Republicans opposed expanding Medicaid, Sears was an outspoken supporter of the move, which has added more than 630,000 people to the program.
Kasich said Sears has consistently shared his vision for health care and worked with his administration on reform.
"She has the right combination of expertise, temperament and leadership ability to guide Medicaid forward and I'm glad she's agreed to take up this responsibility," Kasich said.
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The ACLU of Ohio has asked the Shaker Heights City School District to reconsider a decision to discipline two students for social media posts.
(File photo)
SHAKER HEIGHTS, Ohio - The ACLU of Ohio has asked the Shaker Heights City School District to reconsider a decision to discipline two students for social media posts made after the presidential election.
The district disciplined the students Thursday for social media posts showing another student making derogatory statements about black Americans, the ACLU said in a statement.
Superintendent Dr. Gregory C. Hutchings Jr. called the incident "unacceptable" in a statement posted on the district's website. It came at the end of a week that was "trying for many," he said.
"Emotions are raw and running high. It's clear that a community like Shaker Heights is not immune," Hutchings said. "As a community and as a school district, we have an opportunity to model civility and mutual respect even as we disagree."
But disciplining the students violates their First Amendment rights, the ACLU said.
"Unfortunately, school officials decided to punish these students for exercising their free speech rights," ACLU of Ohio senior policy director Mike Brickner said. "It's disappointing that instead of using this situation as an opportunity to teach young people about free speech and racial justice, school officials resorted to punishing these students for standing up for their convictions."
One of the students has already served a one-day in-school suspension. The second student is scheduled to serve her suspension Tuesday, but the ACLU is asking the school district to reverse its decision to suspend her.
Neither of the students made threats or personal attacks in the posts. The students made the posts off-campus and outside of school hours, the ACLU said in a letter to the school district.
"While it is important to respect the privacy of a person's communication, there is no reasonable expectation of privacy in a broadly posted message," the ACLU said in its letter to the school district. "Moreover, a school social media usage policy must give way to the higher dictate of the Constitution, especially where the expression concerns important matters of public interest."
Shaker Heights High School
Shaker Heights High School dismissed early Monday as police investigated a threat.
(Plain Dealer file photo)
SHAKER HEIGHTS, Ohio -- Shaker Heights High School students were dismissed early Monday as police investigated three anonymous bomb threats, the school district said.
The school dismissed students at 12:10 p.m. as a precautionary measure. The Shaker Heights Police Department is searching the building but has not found any evidence of a credible threat, , the Shaker Heights City School District said in a statement.
It's unclear whether the threats are connected to the district's decision to discipline two high school students for social media posts made after the presidential election. The posts showed another student making derogatory statements about black Americans, according to the ACLU oh Ohio, which has asked the district to reconsider the discipline.
"We take these things very seriously. We are fully cooperating with the police," Superintendent Dr. Gregory Hutchings Jr. said Monday in the school district's statement. "We are saddened that people have taken it upon themselves to disrupt our educational process. We will get through this together."
Students are awaiting pickup at Woodbury Field along South Woodland Road. The school will provide accommodations for any students unable to be picked up.
The threats caused the school to go into a precautionary lockdown at 10:45 a.m. Shaker Heights police are in the process of completing a full sweep of the building.
No other schools within the district are affected.
If you'd like to comment on this story, visit Monday's crime and courts comments section.
This is Up and Down, where we give a brief thumbs up and thumbs down on the issues from the past week.
Up
Despite problems with a summer hailstorm, a $500 million urea fertilizer plant northwest of Beulah is moving forward. The Basin Electric Cooperative project has been a big boost for Mercer County. Taxable sales for the county were up 17 percent, compared to a 26 percent decline for the rest of the state. The project has provided jobs along with customers for the communitys businesses. Its a win situation for everyone involved.
Down
During the recent Dakota Access Pipeline protests at least seven journalists have been charged. While its understandable that law enforcement can have difficulty knowing who is a journalist during chaotic events, the charges should be closely reviewed. The case against Amy Goodman of Democracy Now was dismissed and the other cases seem similar. Journalists follow the story and sometimes it takes them into the middle of the action. It can be difficult enough for journalists covering a story without the threat of charges hanging over them.
Up
North Dakota voters on Tuesday easily approved Measure 5 that allows the use of medical marijuana. The Tribune Editorial Board along with many law enforcement and medical groups recommended the defeat of the measure. The vote gets a thumbs up because it reflects an electorate that studied the issue and made their own decision. North Dakota, considered by outsiders as a predictable conservative state, has never been afraid to split a ballot. For many years we elected an all-Democratic congressional delegation while picking mostly Republicans for state offices. We hope the state voters never lose their independent streak.
Down
Protesters upset over the election of Donald Trump closed part of the Interstate in the Minneapolis area. Similar action was reported in several other areas of the country. During the campaign there was concern over whether Trump would accept the results of the election. Now that hes won, its the other side that cant accept the outcome of the process. Selecting a leader can be messy and losing hurts, but the process needs to be respected. Americans witnessed a remarkable run by Trump. Not everyone likes it, but they need to accept it.
Up
Kirsten Baesler, state superintendent, met last week with her Student Cabinet. The 20 students from around the state, ranging from fourth grade to college freshmen, are providing her feedback on a variety of topics. Baesler says shes serious about taking their advice and thats a good thing. Too often students get left out during discussions on curriculum and policy. The learning process works a lot better when everyone involved buys into it.
If you run a small business, now is the time to shore up your finances and take advantage of available deductions to cut your tax bill. Bear in mind, you're wrapping up this year's books. Advisors say it's too early to see how the Trump administration will shape the tax regime in 2017.
Hero Images | Getty Images
"For 2016, we can play by the rules we have available to us now," said Gavin Morrissey, managing partner at Financial Strategy Associates in Needham, Massachusetts. "Small-business owners should re-evaluate things in 2017, once we know the new tax rules under Trump." Though the end of the year is a good time for even regular 9-to-5 employees to do some tax planning, it's especially critical for owners of small businesses. In part, that's because entrepreneurs are responsible for paying their estimated state and federal taxes on time. They're also on their own when it comes to setting up and funding their retirement plans in a timely fashion. "Take the end of the year to clean up your books, reconcile your cash, and when you are ready to talk about taxes, we can do so intelligently," said Dave Burton, a certified public accountant at Burton & Company in Hollywood, Florida. Here are a few suggestions that will get you through the last few weeks of the year.
Know what you owe
In a perfect world, entrepreneurs would pay their estimated state and federal taxes, including Social Security and Medicare levies, on a quarterly basis. In reality, it's easy to overlook these payments, especially if your cash flow is hard to predict. Since quarterly taxes for the final three months of 2016 are due on Jan. 15, take the time to make sure you've properly deducted the levies and that you're accounting for any late fees and penalties the IRS may impose if you missed a payment. Working with a payroll company can also help you simplify things. "Let's say you were supposed to pay $10,000 throughout the year," said Burton. "You can go to the payroll provider, have them deduct the $10,000 and pay it to the IRS as additional withholding."
Set up your retirement plan
Once you've determined what you owe in taxes, think about how you can save. While most folks may know that a 401(k) or an IRA will allow you to save on a tax-deferred basis, did you know that you can also save on taxes by setting up a retirement plan? Contributions you make as an employer to a SIMPLE IRA, a SEP IRA, or a solo 401(k) are tax deductible. Be aware of the differences between these three retirement plans. If you are your own boss with a SIMPLE IRA, you can save up to $12,500, plus a catch-up contribution of $3,000 if you're 50 and older. You can also contribute either a 2 percent fixed contribution or a 3 percent match.
You can save even more aggressively in a SEP IRA and a solo 401(k). Because you're the employer and the employee of your small business, you can save up to the overall limit for defined contribution plans: 25 percent of your earnings, up to $53,000 in 2016, plus a $6,000 for catch-up contribution if you're 50 and older. That $53,000 includes the $18,000 maximum you can defer into a plan as an employee, as well as other employer contributions and matches. Talk to your advisor or your accountant to determine which of these plans is right for your business.
Accelerate or defer
Depending on how your clients pay, you may be able to defer receipt of income this year, which could help you save on taxes. Many sole proprietors use cash basis accounting, meaning you report income when you receive payment. Consider scheduling your billing so that clients pay you in early 2017 for work you performed in late 2016. This way, you receive the money in the new year. "Let's say that you provide a service on December 20," said Morrissey. "You can send the bill toward the end of the month, and you won't receive payment until January."
"I hope he really does bring the country together and work together here in Washington, D.C., in more of a bipartisan way to get things done," Case told CNBC's " Squawk Alley " on Monday. "I also hope he builds a bridge between the innovators in places like Silicon Valley, and people all across the country. .... We need to make sure the job creation, the innovation, the energy of this economy are broadly dispersed. And I think part of the frustration we saw last week with the election is a lot of people feeling left behind."
While President-elect Donald Trump 's victory has roiled Silicon Valley, it shows why California's tech elite need to stop treating middle America like "flyover country," said Steve Case, co-founder of AOL.
Steve Case, chairman and chief executive officer of Revolution and co-founder of America Online, speaks during the South By Southwest Interactive Festival in Austin, Texas, on Saturday, March 14, 2015.
Trump's election shocked many coastal tech CEOs and investors, who said they were "terrified" and called the results "tragic." Trump got about 20 percent of the vote or less in San Francisco and Santa Clara County, The New York Times reported, giving most big tech companies little exposure to the pro-Trump populace.
Case is the chief of a technology investment firm that looks to fund start-ups outside liberal Silicon Valley including many areas where Trump managed to dominate the polls. After traveling across the country, Case said he's seen how entrepreneurs in middle America feel about how Silicon Valley treats the status quo in core industries like agriculture.
"It's not just President-elect Trump reaching out to Silicon Valley it's also Silicon Valley reconnecting with the rest of the country, because this has been an area of frustration," Case said. "They do feel left out. They really do feel left behind. They feel like people are talking past them, even calling them the flyover country. But the next wave ... of innovation, will be in sectors in agriculture and health care and education."
Case endorsed Hillary Clinton for president earlier this year, citing her promises to invest in education and technology-driven jobs, promote high-skilled immigrants, and rein in the national deficit. Clinton, unlike Republican rival Donald Trump, released a detailed plan on technology and innovation.
Still, Case said, venture capitalists have a role to play in building bridges in areas with Trump strongholds. It starts by focusing on funding jobs all across America, he said.
"If you're an entrepreneur in Detroit or Des Moines or Madison or many other parts of the country, it's much harder than if you're in San Francisco or New York," Case said. "So they too feel left out. And because start-ups really create the jobs. ... We need to support entrepreneurs everywhere."
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iPhones and other U.S. goods could suffer sales hits in China if President-elect Donald Trump goes through with his "naive" plan of slapping a large import tariff on Chinese products, a state-backed newspaper warned on Sunday. During his election campaign this year, Trump spoke of a 45 percent import tariff on all Chinese goods while failing to outline how it would work. Should any such policy come into effect, China will take a "tit-for-tat approach", according to an opinion piece in the Global Times, a newspaper backed by the Communist party. "A batch of Boeing orders will be replaced by Airbus. U.S. auto and iPhone sales in China will suffer a setback, and U.S. soybean and maize imports will be halted. China can also limit the number of Chinese students studying in the U.S.," the Global Times article read. Apple has not responded to CNBC's request for comment.
A man holds his new iPhone 7 at an Apple store in Beijing. Thomas Peter | Reuters
But the Chinese newspaper was not convinced Trump would go through with his suggestion, calling it "merely campaign rhetoric" and questioning its legal validity. U.S. law dictates that presidents can only impose tariffs of no more than 15 percent for a maximum of 150 days on all imports.
Trump ally and the driving force behind the U.K.'s Brexit from Europe Nigel Farage has blasted the European Commission (EC) president for his call to create a European army.
Following the U.S presidential election last week, EC president Jean-Claude Juncker said Europe had to recognize the need to take care of its own defense needs.
"The Americans, to whom we owe much, will not ensure the security of the Europeans in the long term. We have to do this ourselves," Juncker told reporters in Berlin on Wednesday night.
"That is why we need a new start in the field of European defense, up to the goal of setting up a European army."
However anti-European Union campaigner and ally of Donald Trump, Nigel Farage, has told Sky News that Juncker's plan is laughable.
"You've got Jean-Claude Juncker using the election of President Trump as a means of trying to destroy Nato by pushing his ridiculous dream of a European army," he said Monday.
The Brexit leader also argued that Europe's criticism of Nato provided more of a security threat than Donald Trump in the White House.
"But the more we hear from the European Union that they wish to brush Nato aside, the more I think it will be wrong to view Trump as being a threat to our security, but increasingly the European Union that is."
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has himself criticized Nato on the campaign trail, stating he wanted other member countries to pay more in to the defense alliance organization.
Farage said he agreed with Trump's stance as there had been no proper review of the organization since the fall of the Berlin wall in 1989.
Brexit campaign leader Nigel Farage, a supporter of Donald Trump, told CNBC on Monday he found the U.S. president-elect to be reflective on the task ahead and concerned about how to create jobs and wealth.
"Don't underestimate this guy," Farage said on "Squawk Box." "He's made a big, big success of his business career. And he intends to be a successful president, and I think he may well be."
Farage, the former and now interim leader of the U.K. Independence Party, met with Trump in New York on Saturday at Trump Tower, suggesting he could act as a go-between to help smooth British-American relations.
U.K. Prime Minister Theresa May is not expected to meet with Trump until early next year. Farage has suggested May's criticisms of Trump in the early days of the campaign could damage ties with Washington.
Trump's surprise victory has often been compared to the poll-defying June vote by British citizens for the U.K. to leave the European Union trading bloc.
"What Trump believes in, as I believe in, is nation-state democracy that we should be controlling our own borders; making our own laws; and yes, trading with each other, cooperating with each other, being good neighbors,' Farage said.
During the U.S. race, Farage showed up at some of the presidential debates in support of Trump and appeared with the Republican on the campaign trail.
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Leading Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage visited Donald Trump at his home on Saturday, after suggesting he could act as a go-between to help smooth British relations with the U.S. president-elect. British Prime Minister Theresa May is not expected to meet the incoming leader until early next year and Farage has suggested her criticisms of Trump in the early days of the campaign could damage ties with Washington. "We're just tourists!" Farage, head of the UK Independence Party (UKIP), told reporters as he waited for an elevator to take him up to the meeting at Trump Tower in New York City. He later tweeted a photograph of himself with Trump standing in front of a pair of golden doors and smiling broadly, the president-elect giving the camera a thumbs-up. "It was a great honor to spend time with @realDonaldTrump," Farage tweeted. "He was relaxed and full of good ideas. I'm confident he will be a good President."
@Nigel_Farage
Trump's election campaign manager Kellyanne Conway said: "I think they enjoy each other's company, and they actually had a chance to talk about freedom and winning and what this all means for the world." In a separate photograph posted on Twitter, UKIP donor Arron Banks, Breitbart London Editor in Chief Raheem Kassam, and Gerry Gunster, an American whose advocacy firm worked on the Brexit campaign, were also pictured with Trump and Farage. May - who spoke to Trump by phone on Thursday - and her predecessor David Cameron last year described Trump as "divisive" and "wrong" over his call to ban Muslims from entering the United States. At that time he was not considered likely to win the presidency. In a leaked diplomatic telegram, sent on Nov. 9 and printed in the Sunday Times newspaper, Britain's ambassador to Washington, Kim Darroch, said he believed Britain had built better relationships with Trump's team than other foreign diplomats. "(Trump) is above all an outsider and an unknown quantity, whose campaign pronouncements may reveal his instincts, but will surely evolve and, particularly, be open to outside influence if pitched right," he said. "We should be well placed to do this."
While the British government has congratulated Trump on his election, the head of the opposition, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, said he should "grow up" on the immigration issue and recognize that the U.S. economy depends on migrant workers.
"The treatment of Mexico by the United States, just as much as its absurd and abusive language towards Muslims, is something that has to be challenged and should be challenged," Corbyn, whose wife is Mexican, told the BBC on Sunday. UKIP, which has only one member of parliament in London, said Farage and Trump spent more than an hour discussing Trump's victory, global politics and Brexit. A UKIP official has suggested Farage could even be the next ambassador to the United States, but British media reported that May's office rejected the idea of any role for Farage, citing unnamed sources who described him as an "irrelevance". A day after Trump's election victory, Farage called on the real estate mogul to reverse "loathsome" Barack Obama's policy by making Britain his top priority. Farage said he had been pleased at Trump's "very positive reaction" to the idea that a bust of former British prime minister Winston Churchill be put back in the Oval Office. He has also joked about sexual assault allegations against Trump, urging him to "schmooze" May but not touch her. He proposed that in any meetings between the British and American leaders, he could attend to be the "responsible adult to make sure everything is OK." Farage, who spoke at a Trump rally during the election campaign, had predicted the former reality TV host would tap into the same dissatisfaction among voters that led to Britain deciding on June 23 to leave the European Union. Trump made repeated references to Brexit during his campaign, saying it had highlighted the desire for change among voters frustrated with traditional politics.
FARGO -- Beth Gravalin knows what its like to face a potentially dangerous crisis while working with someone who suffers from mental illness, chemical dependency or both.
As a former, longtime employee of Southeast Human Service Center in Fargo, she was front and center during whats believed to have been the first incident of a gun being fired at the facility.
In 2008, Gravalin tried to convince a distraught and suicidal client to drop a gun, after the person fired a shot in a vehicle parked outside the center. She was leaning into the vehicle when police arrived to subdue the client.
Shes found herself reliving those tense moments recently, in the wake of an incident this summer in which a counselor was trapped in her office at Southeast for nearly three hours with an armed man who later fatally shot himself.
Gravalin said both incidents reveal safety shortcomings at the facility, one of the eight state-run centers across North Dakota that offers services such as drug and mental health treatment on an income-based sliding scale. Officials dispute her claim that the center has gaps in security.
But Gravalin believes not much has changed in the eight years between those two gun incidents to make the setting more secure for clients and staff.
My goal in this is safety, Gravalin said. In light of what has happened its still an issue.
Earlier incident
A little after 4 p.m. on June 30, 2008, Gravalin was summoned to help a nurse whod gone outside to talk with a client in a vehicle in the parking lot of Southeast at 2624 9th Ave. S. According to a police report, the man was agitated because hed come to the center to pick up medication, but didnt receive it because he was intoxicated.
The nurse saw the man pull a gun from between the seats and point it at his head. While she tried to reason with him, police say he fired a shot through the roof of the vehicle.
Gravalin was walking up to the vehicle when the shot rang out.
I told the young nurse to go inside, and that I would talk to the client, she said.
As Gravalin tried to de-escalate the situation, she heard sirens in the distance and knew police were on their way.
She said she told the client, This can go one of two ways. This could go really bad or you could give me the gun now.
According to police, when an officer arrived he ordered the man to drop the gun, but he resisted. As the officer grabbed his arm to push the gun away, the man agreed to unload the weapon. When he did so, the gun dropped to the floor of the vehicle.
The police officer told me, Go get the gun, Gravalin said. So I ran around the car and opened up the passenger door while the officer wrestled with the client, and I grabbed the gun.
She told police she didnt feel threatened during the incident, but another officer noted in the police report that Gravalin was visibly shaking as she stood with the gun in her hand.
Gravalin said the incidents in 2008 and this summer show Southeast isnt adequately prepared to deal with certain crises.
We didnt have an active shooter policy at the time (2008) and didnt develop one for some time afterward, she said.
Russ Korzeniewski is the risk manager at the Department of Human Services, an umbrella state agency that includes Southeast. He said a written protocol on active shooter response was disseminated to all DHS staff in April 2012, and an online video on the topic became available for them in January 2014.
Gravalin maintains any safety videos were not specific to client situations.
Only recently has there been face-to-face lockdown training for Southeast employees. Korzeniewski said hes done those group training sessions at each of the states eight regional human service centers over the past month and a half.
But the information has always been out there for staff, he said.
Jeff Stenseth, regional director at Southeast, said since August, the facility has taken or will take other safety steps, including installing a public address system to alert everyone in the building in the event of an emergency.
No way to alert others
According to the police report for the Aug. 18 incident recently obtained by The Forum in an open records request, a man whod shown up for a counseling session at Southeast about 4 p.m. walked into the counselors office, closed the door and then told the female employee he had a gun and wanted to take his own life or force police officers to do so.
Before officers were able to pull off a tense rescue of the woman, and the man fatally shot himself, she was trapped with him for several hours while other employees in the building were unaware of her situation.
Gravalin said the fact that no one knew the counselor was potentially in danger is one of the ongoing safety issues for employees, who often meet with clients behind closed doors.
Our offices were not equipped with panic buttons, per se that if somebody was distraught within the premises, we couldnt alert anybody, Gravalin said.
Police say it was the counselors husband who alerted them that night, after his wife didnt show up for dinner after work. He tried calling and texting her, and finally received a message that she was still at Southeast and in trouble.
When the husband and police arrived at Southeast, they told a security person there who they were looking for. The police report indicates the security officer had no knowledge of the situation, and no idea which office the woman worked in.
They should know whos in their building, they should know where they are, Gravalin said.
Stenseth said up until this incident, the security guard wasnt expected to know office locations of more than 200 employees. Now, that guard carries a cellphone issued by Southeast that employees can call.
All staff have that number programmed into the phones in their group rooms or individual offices where evening services will be provided, Stenseth said.
The police report also reveals how many other people were in the building while the counselor was trapped in her office.
With the standoff still underway, an officer was told by an exiting employee that another co-worker was holding a group session with four to five clients in a second floor conference room, just 20 feet from the man with the gun. The employees and clients got out safely.
Stenseth said since then, theyve shrunk the footprint of where evening sessions take place, holding them on the first floor only. He said theres also a checkout process for staff when they end their work day.
If an emergency happens in the building during the day, Stenseth said a message can be sent to all staff via phone, computer or cellphone. And the public address system, for which theyre seeking bids, would allow them to do a building-wide announcement, Stenseth said.
Whistleblower role
Beth Gravalin spent more than 28 years at Southeast working with the most seriously mentally ill and chronically chemically dependent. Her most recent role was as director of its Extended Care Program -- a job she held until 2013 when she resigned, partly due to frustration over unresolved safety concerns, she said.
Before her resignation, Gravalin wrote a letter to then-interim DHS executive director Maggie Anderson detailing those concerns, but said she felt they werent heard.
Our review shows proper steps are being and will continue to be taken to protect the safety of patients and employees, Anderson, who is now the executive director of the agency, stated in a response letter sent to Gravalins attorney in February 2013.
Gravalin said shes most concerned about the safety of caseworkers, many of them women and recent college graduates. She thinks they should have state-issued cell phones for safety.
She also points to the metal detector and law enforcement presence at the entrance to the Cass County Courthouse, where Cass County Social Services is located. She said that agency works with many of the same people as Southeast.
Stenseth isnt sure that kind of security is appropriate for Southeast. He said they have to be cautious not to criminalize people seeking health services.
We look at that balance, wanting to be a welcoming place for clients struggling with behavioral health, Stenseth said.
Gravalin now works as a nurse in the Minnesota lakes area. She said she didnt publicize her concerns about Southeast earlier out of self preservation.
I wanted to work in mental health, said Gravalin, who considered the field her calling.
She thinks being a whistleblower has changed that.
Ive come to the realization, though, that Im probably not going to get another job in mental health, she said.
Anti-Trump protesters gather outside City Hall to protest the president-elect Donald Trump by chanting, 'Not my president, not my president,' in Los Angeles, Calif., on Nov. 9, 2016.
No state has seen more people get health insurance coverage as a result of Obamacare in the past three years. As a result, California stands to see the biggest increases in the number of people without health coverage if president-elect Trump follows through on threats he has made to completely repeal the ACA.
It could be California screaming the loudest if President Donald Trump says "You're fired!" to the Affordable Care Act.
"We have the most to lose," Kominski said.
"We've basically cut the number of uninsured in a little bit more than half, which is enormous progress," Dr. Gerald Kominski, head of the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research, told the Los Angeles Times in a story about the threat Trump poses to the Golden State's newly insured.
The Times story notes that as of now, 4.6 million California residents have health coverage that is funded by Affordable Care Act programs. That includes people who buy private individual health insurance plans sold on the state-run Obamacare exchange, or who joined California's Medicaid program, Medi-Cal, after the ACA authorized federal funding to expand coverage to more poor people.
California would lose $20 billion in funding from the federal government if the ACA is completely repealed, the story said.
Whether Trump will actually seek full repeal after he takes office in January remains to be seen.In the past several days, Trump has made several statements about Obamacare.
In an interview with CBS's "60 Minutes" that aired Sunday night, Trump said Obamacare "will be repealed and replaced" in one fell swoop. "And it'll be great health care for much less money," Trump said.
But in an interview with the Wall Street Journal published Friday, Trump said, "Either Obamacare will be amended, or repealed and replaced."
Trump's interview with the Journal came after he met with President Barack Obama at the White House last Thursday. Trump was quoted by newspaper as saying that Obama suggested keeping certain parts of the ACA, and "I told him I will look at his suggestions, and out of respect, I will do that."
Trump said he is in favor of maintaining the ACA's bar against insurers denying coverage to people with pre-existing health conditions, and also supports keeping the provision that allows adults until age 26 to be covered by their parents' health plans.
Sohu CEO Charles Zhang. VCG | Getty Images
For all President-elect Donald Trump's anti-China talk, Chinese business leaders say they're looking forward to working with a "businessman." "You, know, he's good at making deals, 'The Art of the Deal,' right, so reaching a deal that's beneficial for both sides" will be key, Charles Zhang, CEO of Chinese internet search giant Sohu.com , told CNBC. "I think it's important to sit down and talk. That's ... a positive side of the Trump presidency." "I wouldn't worry," added Zhang, who has a doctorate degree in experimental physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He spoke this past weekend on the sidelines of the MIT-China Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum, where Chinese business executives and fund managers were mostly upbeat about growth prospects for Chinese companies.
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"Winter is the best time for a start-up," more than one China-based venture capitalist said at the conference.
U.S. goods and services trade with China totaled almost $660 billion in 2015, according to an estimate from the U.S. Trade Representative website. The United States had a trade deficit of $336.2 billion with China last year. Claiming he can create more U.S. jobs, Trump has called for a 45 percent tariff on Chinese imports and says he wants to label the country a currency manipulator. His campaign platform states that the U.S. Trade Representative should bring trade cases against China in the U.S. and the World Trade Organization. "The Chinese are looking at Trump 'glass half-full," Charles Freeman III, nonresident senior fellow in the John L. Thornton China Center at Brookings, told CNBC in a phone interview Monday.
"There certainly was a perception that values and U.S. security interest were more important than economic interests for the current and maybe previous administration," he said.
I think a little caution would be in their best interest ... There is a lot of political pressure on President-elect Trump to follow through on his promises. Timothy Heath senior international defense research analyst, Rand Corp.
Uncertainty continues to cloud the future of the U.K. financial services industry as it assesses how to continue working once the country -- and with it the City of London -- leaves the European Union.
The decision to leave the EU has been a headache for the City as it could lose the so-called "passporting rights" the possibility to sell and trade in euros and across Europe while only overseen by U.K. authorities.
Several EU representatives, including President Francois Hollande of France, have said that the euro-clearing business could only happen in the EU and overseen by the European Central Bank - which would mean that London would lose a significant part of its financial business.
Reports in The Times over the weekend suggested that Citigroup , which manages $1.8 trillion assets, was planning to send 900 employees from London to Dublin to continue operating in Europe.
Last week, news emerged that also Goldman Sachs was considering moving some assets and operations from London to Frankfurt. In both scenarios, the investment banks would be under the ECB's supervision once Britain officially exits from the EU and could continue their euro-operations.
"We are looking at our options obviously," a spokesperson for Citigroup told CNBC on Monday over the phone. "But we are not looking for space in Dublin and we are not moving 900 people there," the spokesperson added, denying the Times report.
However, the worries across the financial services industry are clear and the future of the City is not looking bright.
Entrepreneur Marcus Lemonis Travels to Cuba to Meet Business Owners Surviving and Thriving Under an Oppressive Communist Regime
A Rare Look Inside the Groundbreaking Changes Taking Place in Cuba
ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J. November 7, 2016 On CNBC's hit primetime series "The Profit," entrepreneur Marcus Lemonis puts his own money on the line to help save and grow struggling American businesses. Now, he's headed to Cuba, one of the last holdouts of communism, to tell the stories of a remarkable group of men and women experiencing their first taste of freedom as entrepreneurs. In a special episode, "The Profit In Cuba," airing Tuesday, November 15 at 10PM ET/PT, Marcus travels to Cuba at a time of historic change, and profiles this new breed of business owners determined to succeed.
"The Cuban people have an amazing spirit," said Marcus Lemonis. "Seeing how small business functions in a communist country gave me an understanding of what's really happening in Cuba. Their tenacity and resolve despite staggering obstacles is the heart and soul of what makes that country work."
New laws in the country that allow for private business ownership have launched a wave of pioneer capitalists. In shops, factories, farms and homes, Marcus meets them to learn about their opportunities and challenges firsthand, and offers his expertise. A woman formerly employed by the state as a dentist now makes several times her old salary running a bakery with her brother. The new venture is doing quite well, though to Marcus' astonishment they explain that they often have no access to chocolate.
When it comes to running a business in Cuba, there are obstacles everywhere, including a longstanding U.S. trade embargo, broken supply chains, scarce resources, sporadic internet service, and intense government control and interference. Marcus visits a clothing designer who's prevented by law from opening a store; a restaurant owner whose license limits him to fifty seats; and an aspiring artisan who was forced to move her business on orders from the state.
These entrepreneurs have defied circumstances that would be unthinkable for most Americans. Despite these problems, some half a million Cuban citizens are benefitting from the new laws, and in a nation where the average income is roughly $25 a month, many have already improved their way of life.
Mitch Weitzner is Senior Executive Producer and Vice President of Long Form Programming. Reid Collins Jr. and Meghan Lisson are Producers. Amber Mazzola is Creative Consultant. Nikhil Deogun is Senior Vice President and Editor in Chief of Business News for CNBC.
For more information, visit http://www.cnbc.com/the-profit-in-cuba/. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram! #TheProfitCuba #TheProfit
European oil companies might be thinking twice about returning to Iran's oil fields with Donald Trump bound for the White House, according to Helima Croft, head of commodities strategy at RBC Capital Markets. French oil giant Total announced last week it would lead a consortium that includes the China National Petroleum Corporation to develop Iran's South Pars gas field. Others have told CNBC they are interested but waiting until the investment outlook becomes clearer.
Iran's oil production has grown steadily over the last year to about 3.7 million barrels per day following the lifting of sanctions that hobbled its crude exports. But the recent presidential election puts a question mark over its continued recovery, Croft said. "Iran has ramped up. Iran is back to pre-sanctions levels, but can Iran do much more without foreign investment? And this is where the Trump election becomes very, very important," she told CNBC's "Power Lunch."
Croft questioned whether European oil majors will be willing to invest in projects to further boost Iranian oil production in the wake of Trump's victory. Trump threatened during the presidential campaign to rip up the deal Iran reached with international negotiators last year to limit its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. With Trump in office, the European energy firms lining up to develop Iran's massive oil and gas reserves face a big risk: that his administration will exploit provisions in the nuclear accord that would put back in place sanctions that penalize companies that invest in Iran's oil and gas sector. Trump could set that process in motion by refusing to certify that Iran is compliant with the terms of the deal, RBC said in a note last week. Iran has twice exceeded limits on the amount of heavy water it is allowed to possess, though the U.S. energy secretary and State Department have said Iran has immediately sought to correct the problem. RBC, however, said a Trump administration "may not be so magnanimous" and could use a technical violation to snap sanctions back into place.
A gas flare on an oil production platform is seen alongside an Iranian flag in the Gulf. Raheb Homavandi | Reuters
The cost of doing nothing would even higher, according to the group's analysis; by 2025, the impact of lost business, higher transportation costs and other economic headwinds would wipe out some $4 trillion in gross domestic product, and some 2.5 million jobs.
Since the 1960s, when the federal government began winding down construction of the Interstate highway system, federal spending for public projects has steadily fallen as a percent of GDP.
Faced with rising pension costs and tax-weary voters, state governments have also been cutting infrastructure spending as a share of the economy. Over the last half decade, state and local government spending on capital projects dropped from its high of 3 percent of U.S. GDP to less than 2 percent in 2014, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.
Now, as Republicans take control of the White House and both houses of Congress, there's renewed momentum to tackle the task of infrastructure repair and upgrades. But conservative Republicans remain leery of borrowing trillions of dollars to pay for the new spending, adding to the rising federal debt.
Duke Energy has agreed to pay $27 million to settle a lawsuit over the power producer's abrupt firing of its newly installed chief executive in 2012.
Duke had agreed to install Progress Energy head William Johnson a chief executive of the combined company as part of the terms to buy Progress.
But within hours of the deal closing in July 2012, the new Duke board met and fired Johnson, reinstating former Duke CEO James Rogers.
Johnson left with a pre-negotiated $44 million severance package.
Shareholders soon sued Duke, arguing the decision to fire the CEO was reached in May 2012 and concealed from the public, investors and regulators.
A Delaware judge in August denied Duke's bid to end the case, finding the plaintiffs plausibly argued that the defendants might have concealed information about their actions from the public and regulators.
The settlement will be "funded by certain insurers" and does not include admission of any liability or wrongdoing by Duke, according to a court document filed Nov. 9.
Check out which companies are making headlines before the bell:
Harman International Samsung is buying the U.S.-based automobile technology company for $8 billion in all-cash transaction. It is the biggest-ever overseas acquisition for a South Korean company.
Mentor Graphics Mentor is being bought by Germany's Siemens for $4.5 billion in cash, or $37.25 per share. Mentor is a maker of computer software used in designing computer chips.
Pfizer The drugmaker's Celebrex arthritis drug is at least as safe as prescription-strength doses of ibuprofen and naproxen, according to the results of a 10-year study.
Novartis Novartis is considering the sale of its Alcon eye care products division, according to the drugmaker's chairman Joerg Reinhardt. He told a Swiss weekly newspaper that the division has not done as well as the company had expected.
Toyota The automaker agreed to settle a case involving truck rust for up to $3.4 billion. The settlement involves various Tacoma, Tundra, and Sequoia models that were alleged to have poor rust protection.
Johnson & Johnson J&J saw mixed results for an experimental drug designed to treat rheumatoid arthritis when compared to Abbvie's best-selling Humira treatment.
Hewlett-Packard Enterprise The former chief financial officer of Autonomy was indicted for allegedly making fraudulent claims ahead of Hewlett-Packard's 2011 purchase of the software company for $11 billion. HP eventually took an $8.8 billion writedown on the deal, and successor company HPE sold off parts of that business earlier this year.
Duke Energy Duke will pay $27 million to settle a lawsuit over its firing of William Johnson in 2012. Johnson had been head of Progress Energy when it was acquired by Duke, and was set to be CEO of the combined company. However, he was fired within hours of the deal's closing.
Coca-Cola Coca-Cola may become a takeover target of beer brewing giant Anheuser-Busch InBev , according to a story in the Sunday Telegraph. People close to Ab InBev CEO Carlos Brito told the paper that following consolidation in the beer industry, Brito is looking at different beverage targets.
Chico's FAS , L Brands , Kohl's The retailers were upgraded by Citi to "buy" from "neutral," on the thesis that likely tax reform under a Donald Trump administration will provide a bump for retail in general and these companies in particular.
SciClone Pharmaceuticals Shareholder GL Management has offered to acquire the drugmaker for $11.18 per share in cash, compared to Friday's close of $9.85. GL holds a 9.3 percent stake in SciClone.
Amazon.com Amazon announced the expansion of its Home Services business into 20 new markets, including Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Milwaukee, and Cleveland.
Citigroup Morgan Stanley upgraded Citi to "overweight from "equal weight" based on the idea that tax cuts coupled with stronger economic growth under the Trump administration will benefit banks in general, while pointing to Citi as particularly undervalued.
Viacom Viacom was downgraded to "hold" from "buy" at Brean Capital, which questions the value of a possible combination between Viacom and CBS , as well as the probability that this will occur.
Lockheed Martin Stifel upgraded the defense contractor to "buy" from "hold," based on expectations for defense spending under a Trump administration.
Square The mobile payments company was upgraded to "overweight" from "sector weight" at Pacific Crest, based on the firm's bullish stance on mobile payments in general and Square's ability to increase profit margins and generate substantial cash flow.
Europe's current obsession about the surprise election of Donald Trump could soon be eclipsed by a raft of elections across the continent, experts have told CNBC.
"We will probably stay obsessed with Trump for a bit longer But we're eventually going to turn back to Europe, which is clearly where the future political risk in the future lie," Daniel Morrison, senior investment strategist at BNP Paribas, told CNBC on Monday.
"The likelihood of populist parties gaining in Europe is now higher than it was before because of Trump, where that leads, who knows, but in addition to the elections we already now we will have in Germany, in France, and the Netherlands, who knows, we may have them in Italy, in the U.K., in Spain, all that is going to potentially weight on the markets," he added.
At the start of next month, the future of the Italian government will be in the spotlight. Prime Minister Matteo Renzi has proposed a referendum to change the country's constitution and warned he would resign if voters did not approve his changes.
For the coming year, France, Germany and the Netherlands crucial countries in shaping the European Union will be under the spotlight early next year as they elect new leaders amid rising support for populist movements. Political instability in Spain, where a small minority government could struggle to pass legislation, and Brexit rivalries inside the U.K. could spark further concerns.
Several EU leaders met Sunday evening to discuss what the victory of Donald Trump meant for Europe's political direction, but both Britain and France refused to attend the informal gathering.
"The UK's Leave vote and Trump's election have left the EU struggling to find a unified and coherent voice," Lena Komileva, an economist at G+ Market economics, told CNBC via email.
"At worst, the threat of the economic nationalism in France and Italy could threaten the EU's own survival. The markets are not pricing any of this yet, but this is the next big threat on the horizon," she added.
It is difficult to predict how the relationship between the U.S. and the EU will unfold, including on trade and climate change. The first European politician President-elect Trump met was Nigel Farage, interim leader of the U.K. Independence Party, the driving force behind the British departure from the EU.
"If Trump now wanted to look statesmanlike to Europe, receiving Farage was probably the worst thing he could to," Carl Bildt, the former Swedish Prime Minister said on Twitter.
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It will take years of litigation to determine the meaning and boundaries of Marsy's law, prosecutors and defense attorneys say.
"Were going to start uncovering those scenarios where the rights of the defendant are getting trampled on by the implications of Marsy's Law," said Jackson Lofgren, president of the North Dakota Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
Measure 3 which added more than a dozen crime victims' rights to the state constitution won handily on Tuesday with 62 percent of the vote, according to unofficial results, though it was opposed by the people charged with enforcing it, including police, prosecutors and victims' advocates. Similar measures also passed in South Dakota and Montana.
Lofgren, a former prosecutor, said he expects defense attorneys to quickly begin challenging the measure in court, especially in misdemeanor cases and at bond hearings.
The constitutional amendment expands the definition of a victim meriting services to include victims of theft and other misdemeanors, and possibly witnesses to crimes. It also gives victims the right to be heard at all hearings relating to a person's release and sentence.
But bail hearings often happen just hours after an arrest, Lofgren notes. And many people accused of misdemeanors show up for their bail hearings and ask to plead guilty on the spot.
Now, the question arises: What if the prosecutor can't get in touch with the victim before these fast-moving, critical decisions?
"Those defendants are going to have to challenge, in state or federal court, that their constitutional rights are getting trampled on by the provisions of these vague Marsys Law provisions," Lofgren said.
Prosecutors see these potential issues, as well, and are waiting on guidance from court decisions about what to do.
"If we have a bond hearing in 15 minutes and can't get a hold of the victim, I dont know how the court can proceed with the hearing," said Richard Riha, Burleigh County State's Attorney.
Riha is anticipating litigation over this, with different courts creating different rules around the state. He also expects the new provisions to slow the justice system and lead to defendants spending more nights in jail.
"Prosecutors will have to say, what have I all done to make sure notification went out and (find out) if the person wants to speak to me," said Aaron Birst, executive director of the North Dakota State's Attorney's Association.
In the longer-term, both groups anticipate legal battles around victims' new right to refuse information requests from defense attorneys.
If a victim says he or she does not want to give a deposition relatively rare occurrences in criminal cases a prosecutor may be in the position of having to fight for that in court.
McLean County State's Attorney Ladd Erickson noted that victims may also take their rights into their own hands, bringing ethical and legal complaints when they think their rights have been violated.
"You have those kind of people that will use the things in Marsys Law as a sledgehammer," he said, taking advantage of their new found rights to launch complaints against judges and prosecutors.
Kathleen Wrigley, chairwoman for the measure and the wife of Lt. Gov. Drew Wrigley, said Tuesday that she believed a constitutional amendment was the answer to laws protecting victims that are "arbitrarily ignored."
"There have been so many victims that have told me their stories about not being heard at sentencings or parole hearings," she said. "They are afraid and they want their voice to be heard."
Wrigley contends the new rules are clear, concise and tailored to North Dakota.
"The discretion of law enforcement, defense attorneys, prosecutors and judges is not at all diminished or compromised by Marsys Law," she said. "The right to be heard doesnt mean or equate to the right to be believed, of course not."
As it stands, Marsy's Law is set to go into effect on Dec. 8 and many in law enforcement and victim services are scrambling.
A number of state's attorneys held a conference call Wednesday afternoon to discuss next steps, Birst said. As a start, they will begin printing flyers and cards to give victims about their rights.
On Wednesday, the attorney general is hosting a meeting of prosecutors and law enforcement to discuss more substantial changes, he said.
Riha said he began outlining a new plan for Burleigh County the day after the election. Fast notifications for victims of misdemeanor crimes is one of his most pressing concerns. The city attorney does not have his own victim advocate, and he said he may need more staff to shore up the new demands.
"We dont have the manpower," he said. "We might have to make it up as we go along."
Darla Juma, president of the North Dakota Victims Assistance Association, said her group also will meet this week to figure out next steps.
And Burleigh County Sheriff Pat Heinert, who appeared in TV ads in favor of the measure, said he is developing a "Marsy's Card" with victims' rights outlined. Officers will be required to hand the card to crime victims and may undergo additional training on how to treat victims.
But he's less worried than the attorneys. For officers interacting with crime victims, "Its going to add minutes; not a lot of time, he said.
Chuck Smith, right, and Tripp Keber, the founders of Dixie Brands, in Denver, Nov. 7, 2016. The company makes Dixie Elixirs bottled beverages infused with THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana as well as THC-infused chocolates, drops and topical lotions.
Almost all small-business owners dream of the day when they can expand nationally. This has proved to be a unique challenge for those in the marijuana industry because the products they create are illegal under federal law, and the checkerboard of states that permit marijuana sales have complex and constantly changing regulations. Dixie Brands, a company in Denver that creates drinks and other products using marijuana, is aiming to navigate those hurdles and become one of the first companies in the industry to build a national presence. Voters on Tuesday brought that dream a little closer to reality. California, Massachusetts, Maine and Nevada approved adult-use (a new term for recreational use) marijuana. Florida, Arkansas, North Dakota and Montana voted to legalize or expand medical marijuanause. Twenty-eight states and the District of Columbia now have some sort of allowed use. More from The New York Times:
Californians legalize marijuana in vote that could echo nationally
Where cellphones are lifelines, start-ups spy opportunities
Start-upsfor the end of life The legal cannabis industry is dominated by small businesses operating in individual states, so these new laws could open significant prospects for entrepreneurs. And for the companies that can figure out how to operate in multiple states, the opportunity is tremendous.
GreenWave Advisors, a financial research and advisory firm based in New York, estimates that marijuana product sales in the United States will be $6.5 billion in 2016 and about $30 billion in 2021, if products derived from marijuana are legalized in all 50 states in some capacity.
Chuck Smith and Tripp Keber, who founded Dixie Brands seven years ago, have been taking steps to be at the forefront of the growing market. The company makes Dixie Elixirs, bottled beverages infused with THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. It also makes THC-infused chocolates, drops and topical lotions. All are sold at licensed recreational pot shops and medical marijuana dispensaries. Low-dose "awakening" and "relaxing" mints containing five milligrams of THC (half a serving) are among the company's top sellers. Most of the company's revenue comes from Colorado. Because of federal laws on controlled substances, one challenge to expansion is that products cannot cross state lines, so a pot brownie baked in Oregon, for example, cannot be sold in neighboring Washington, even though the product is legal in both places. Add the complications of financing as well as unique packaging, distribution and marketing laws for each state, and establishing a national brand seems daunting and expensive. Some states require marijuana businesses to be owned by in-state residents, further impeding multistate expansion. Also, because the industry is in its infancy, rules are changing constantly, including regulations governing packaging, food production and agriculture management. When Colorado recently required all marijuana food products to be stamped with a THC symbol, Dixie Brands had to create all new molds for its chocolates and discontinue their Dixie Roll product, which is similar to Tootsie Rolls, because it could not be stamped efficiently. The new rule requires a THC stamp on all packaging as well.
"These changes are costly for small businesses," said Joe Hodas, chief marketing officer for the company. In addition, because of federal laws, marijuana companies cannot open bank accounts, cannot use credit cards and cannot deduct business expenses from their federal taxes. Giant safes full of cash and pickups by armored cars are the norm. Many companies in the marijuana industry had been started by product aficionados with little business experience. As legalization spreads, the industry is quickly drawing more business professionals, as evidenced by Mr. Smith and Mr. Keber, who began their endeavor with experience in corporate finance, marketing and management. When recreational marijuana joined medical marijuana as a legal market in Colorado in 2014, they were poised to expand Dixie Brands by adding to their line of products. Since that time, the number of employees has expanded from 20 to 100 and sales have increased about sixfold. Expanding beyond Colorado, however, has taken creativity. Two years ago, in their first move outside of the state, the pair found a licensing partner to produce Dixie products in California. After a year, the founders decided to take a more hands-on approach.
"Our partner wanted to manufacture other companies' products as well as ours, and we wanted more focus on absolute quality and consistency," Mr. Smith said. "To have total legal, financial and operational control, we decided we would need to control the manufacturing and distribution facilities in any state we expanded to." To make this happen, Mr. Smith had to find a way to work within regulations that require owners of marijuana businesses to be residents of the state. He decided that Dixie Brands would own and run anything that did not "touch the plant" and therefore was not subject to local ownership regulations. A local partner would grow and process the marijuana, but only for Dixie Brands, and only under the company's strict instructions. Consistent product quality is critical, Mr. Smith said. "Coca-Cola in Denver and Seattle taste exactly the same, and we want Dixie Elixirs and our other products to have that reputation." Each new manufacturing site will cost about $2 million, according to Mr. Smith. The Dixie holding company will own and control a building that they will rent to the partner as well as the equipment that will be leased to them. All of the noncannabis raw materials and packaging, and the accounting, marketing and legal services, will be provided by Dixie Brands. The state-based partner will own the marijuana itself and employ the personnel who work with the marijuana in any form: plants, concentrates, finished products and the like. This will allow Dixie to control the business while maintaining a clear separation from the federally illegal aspect of it. That separation also protects their investors and gives the company flexibility to react to changing state and federal regulations.
To finance the expansion, Mr. Smith says he has tapped a handful of investors from among the 30 who have funded his efforts over the last seven years. Those sources helped to open manufacturing facilities in Arizona and Nevada last month, and one is scheduled to open early next year in Washington State. For efficiency as it enters new locations, Dixie Brands follows the most stringent state's laws in each area of its operations. For example, Colorado has the strictest packaging requirements encompassing child-safety measures, clear dosing and single-serving packaging. The state also bans cartoon or other child-friendly images, and has many other regulations. Dixie Brands uses those packaging rules for the products they make in every state. "If it is safe enough for Colorado, it will work for the other states," Mr. Smith said. The company also uses the cleaner carbon dioxide extraction method to strip the oils from the plants instead of butane, even though it is not required everywhere.
GroupMe, the Microsoft -owned messaging app that was used for a racist cyberbullying attack last week at the University of Pennsylvania, said it removed the messages instantly and is investigating the case.
A number of black freshman students at Pennsylvania was targeted on Friday from a GroupMe account in Oklahoma. Multiple publications, including Philly.com, said the students were added to a list that referenced lynching in the subject and came from users with names like "Daddy Trump."
GroupMe, which is part of Microsoft's Skype unit, lets users send out group messages from their phones for free.
"As soon as we became aware of the chats taking place on GroupMe which violated our terms of service, we took action and removed the chats," a Microsoft representative said in an e-mailed statement Sunday night. "We're investigating to determine which user accounts will be suspended."
Since Republican Donald Trump, a graduate of Penn's Wharton School of Business, won the presidential election, there have been numerous protests across the country, opposing his expressed views on immigrants, minorities and women.
The antiglobalization sentiment that heavily influenced the U.S. presidential election and Brexit makes it essential to accelerate global interest in entrepreneurship, according to a report released today. The 2017 edition of the Global Entrepreneurship Index, which is being released today in connection with the start of Global Entrepreneurship Week, has found there is a "race to the top," with leaders passionate about economic growth driving their countries' efforts to foster entrepreneurship, according to Jonathan Ortmans, a senior fellow at the Kauffman Foundation, which promotes entrepreneurship, and president of the Global Entrepreneurship Network, which produces the index with the Global Entrepreneurship and Development Institute in Washington, D.C. However, it is important to continue to democratize entrepreneurship, given "rising nationalism driving a nationalistic movement sweeping America and the European Union as countries threaten to tighten their borders and reexamine free trade, the report says.
There is a strong correlation between a country's score in the index and its GDP and a country's digital evolution, according to the report, which found that improving the conditions that support entrepreneurship by 10 percent could add $22 trillion to the global GDP. "It's all about competing for job creation and economic growth," Ortmans said. The GEW this year ranked 155 countries on the health of their entrepreneurial ecosystem. The top 10 countries, ranked by the quality of entrepreneurship and the extent and depth of their supporting global ecosystems, are (1) the United States, (2) Switzerland, (3) Canada, (4) Sweden, (5) Denmark, (6) Iceland, (7) Australia, (8) the U.K., (9) Ireland and (10) the Netherlands. Switzerland, which was in eighth place last year, saw the most dramatic rise among the countries in the top 10, with its score driven by the quality of local start-ups and "very strong" scores in high-growth firms, product innovation and the application of new technologies.
Both China and India, where the middle class is growing, also saw significant growth. China jumped 12 places on the list, to No. 48, while India landed at No. 69, rising by 29 places. "The good news for the global economy is both China and India are strengthening their entrepreneurial ecosystem," given their large populations, said Zoltan Acs, a professor in the School of Public Policy at George Mason University and founder and president of the Global Entrepreneurship and Development Institute (GEDI). Together India and China are home to more than one-third of the world's population. Belize, a nation on the eastern coast of Central America that is suffering from high unemployment and a heavy foreign-debt burden, suffered the biggest decline in its score, dropping 36 points to No. 113 on the list. Argentina, struggling with weak economic growth and high unemployment, saw the second biggest drop, diving 22 spots to No. 83. The bottom of the list was dominated by developing countries. Chad, an African country that is heavily dependent on volatile oil revenue and plagued by corruption, was No. 137, in last place on the list.
Public sector embraces entrepreneurship
This year 169 countries are celebrating GEW, with 10,000 people expected to take part in 35,000 events, activities and competitions. U.S. embassies and consulates are planning and participating in events in 75 countries to help strengthen their economies. The events will culminate in a finale in Cork, Ireland, at the Startup Nations Summit, where a new tool will be unveiled to help policymakers around the globe share innovative policies and programs that are helping entrepreneurs start high-impact companies. "We're now seeing a much larger number of public-sector leaders government at the national and local level jumping in and asking, `How do we tackle this and build stronger entrepreneurial ecosystems?' whether from rudimentary things like business regulations improvement, focusing on an R&D innovation agenda, a more sophisticated way to raise early stage financing or high-skilled immigration," said Ortmans. "They are all now experimenting. That is having a bigger impact on early stage entrepreneurship." Some new developments include U.S. government plans to form a policy staff secretariat to host a ministerial summit on entrepreneurial growth each March, as well as the expansion of Startup Nations communities around the world.
One percolating trend has been greater interest among entrepreneurs in entering highly regulated industries, such as health care, energy and education, to solve problems in those sectors, according to Ortmans. "This army of entrepreneurs is putting themselves to work on new problems," he said. "The new problems are the much harder ones to crack."
We're now seeing a much larger number of public-sector leaders government at the national and local level jumping in and asking, `How do we tackle this and build stronger entrepreneurial ecosystems?' Jonathan Ortmans senior fellow at the Kauffman Foundation
How enterprising innovators are rushing to fill unexploited niches varies with the opportunities they spot across borders. With the drought crisis afflicting many countries, William Janssen, 48, a Dutch entrepreneur who lives in Dubai, saw an opportunity to help. The mechanical engineer and his team came up with Desolenator, a solar-powered device for purifying water from any source, including seawater. His company, based in the U.K., is looking to launch its product in California and one other market next year. "We have a very experienced international team of people who have worked across several continents," said Janssen, whose company won the Startup Open competition, part of Global Entrepreneurship Week, last year. "That is a prerequisite for us to be successful in our line of work."
Geert Slachmuylders, founder of Turbulent, an Antwerp-based start-up that created a micro-hydropower plant that provides clean energy, speaks at The Pitch, a live pitch competition during the 2015 Startup Nations Summit in Monterrey, Mexico. Source: GED
Many of these globalists aim to help solve big societal issues. Massachusetts Institute of Technology Ph.D. student John Lewandowski, 26, is bringing innovation to the world of medical diagnostics. He is CEO and founder of Disease Diagnostic Group, a six-person start-up based in Boston and Buffalo, New York, that has developed a device for the rapid assessment of malaria. The company, a finalist in last year's Startup Open competition, has so far tested the device about the size of an iPhone case in India and is looking to do larger clinical trials in Nigeria and Singapore later this year. "Getting the first prototype out there was challenging from a global perspective," says Lewandowski. To cover the costs, Disease Diagnostic Group has funded its work largely through grants and the winnings from start-up competitions, raising $1.5 million to $1.75 million in non-equity cash to date, according to Lewandowski. So far, its efforts are paying off. The company, which started about two years ago, expects $150,000 to $200,000 in revenue this year, says Lewandowski. "To have positive revenue at this point is definitely something that not a lot of start-ups have," he said.
The entrepreneurship movement is growing in all parts of the globe, thanks to emissaries who promote the benefits of start-up creation as a trigger for economic growth. To encourage thought leadership in this field, the Global Entrepreneurship Network will this be awarding the Startup Nations Award for Groundbreaking Policy Thinking at the Startup Nations Summit in Cork, Ireland, on Nov. 19. In addition to Zoltan Acs at GEDI, the finalists include Caleb Carr, 22, who started a nonprofit called Students for Intellectual Property Rights while studying at University of Colorado. His group lobbies to prevent universities from taking ownership of student start-ups created on their property and has provided legal help to students trying to defend their stake. Companies such as Google , Snapchat and Facebook faced challenges on this front. "Universities have realized students can have the next big app or little piece of technology that can make millions," said Carr. "Universities want a piece of that."
President Barack Obama said Monday that President-elect Donald Trump had expressed a "great interest" in maintaining America's core strategic relationships.
Those continued relations include U.S. participation in NATO, Obama indicated during a news conference at the White House.
"In my conversation with the president-elect, he expressed a great interest in maintaining our core strategic relationships, and so one of the messages I will be able to deliver is his commitment to NATO and the Transatlantic alliance," Obama said. "There is no weakening of resolve when it comes to America's commitment to maintaining a strong and robust NATO relationship, and a recognition that those alliances aren't just good for Europe, they're good for the United States and they're vital for the world."
Obama also reflected on Trump's upcoming transition into the White House, saying the presidency is bigger than any one person.
When asked about Trump's appointment of Stephen Bannon as his chief strategist, Obama said it would not be appropriate for him to comment on every appointment the president-elect starts making. When pressed on how he thought Trump would perform as the 45th U.S. president, Obama struck an optimistic tone,
"He's sincere in wanting to be a successful president," Obama said. "I think he's going to try as best he can to make sure he delivers."
The president said issues raised by Trump during his campaign, such as immigration and trade, have to be approached differently when governing than when campaigning.
"We do need to make sure that we have an orderly, lawful immigration process, but that if it is orderly and lawful, immigration is good for our economy," Obama said. "It keeps this country young, it keeps it dynamic."
When asked if he has any concerns about a Trump presidency, Obama said he "absolutely" has concerns. He added that he doesn't think Trump is ideological, but is ultimately pragmatic, which is something that can serve him well as long as he has good people around him and a clear sense of direction.
Obama will depart today for his final foreign trip as president, visiting Greece for the first time, Germany and Peru.
This is breaking news. Please check back for updates.
President Barack Obama offered some prescriptions for his own Democratic Party on Monday, suggesting that maybe this year's campaigners had not focused enough on the grassroots.
Democrats, the president implied, should be able to win over more Americans, if only they would get out more into the rest of the country.
"I believe that we have better ideas, but I also believe that good ideas don't matter if people don't hear them. And one of the issues that Democrats have to be clear on is that given population distribution across the country, we have to compete everywhere, we have to show up everywhere," Obama said. "We have to work at a grassroots level, something that's been a running thread through my career."
Democrats were unable to win majorities in the House or the Senate, and presidential nominee Hillary Clinton suffered a surprising defeat to Republican Donald Trump.
Obama cited his own career successes in explaining what successful grassroots campaigning looks like.
"I won Iowa not because the demographics dictated that I would win Iowa, it was because I spent 87 days going to every small town, and fair, and fish fry, and VFW hall. And there were some counties where I might have lost, but maybe I lost by 20 points instead of 50 points," Obama explained. "There're some counties that maybe I won that people didn't expect because people had a chance to see you and listen to you and get a sense of who you stood for and who you were fighting for."
So, Obama said, the challenge facing the Democrats "is how do you dig in there and create those kinds of structures so that people have a sense of what it is that you stand for."
Samsung Electronics said on Monday it had agreed to buy Harman International Industries for about $8 billion, a leader in connected car solutions, for about $8 billion, marking a major push into the auto-related technology.
Harman shares rose more than 25 percent in premaket trade on Monday.
Samsung said in a statement it will acquire Harman for $112.00 per share in cash, which represents a premium of 28 percent to Harman's Friday closing price.
It said the deal would "give Samsung a significant presence in the large and rapidly growing market for connected technologies, particularly automotive electronics, which has been a strategic priority."
The deal comes at a time when Samsung's mobile phone business has been hit hard by the disastrous withdrawal of the fire-prone Galaxy Note 7.
Underscoring Samsung's interest in the auto sector, the electronics giant has had talks with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles over a potential sale or partnership for its Magneti Marelli auto parts maker, sources have said.
Steve Bannon, former president of the incendiary Breitbart News and more recently chief executive of Trump's campaign, is taking on a role as Donald Trump's "chief strategist and senior counselor."
Bannon's new position was listed above the announcement of RNC chair Reince Priebus as Trump's new chief of staff on a statement issued Sunday. It said Bannon and Priebus would be "equal partners."
More from NBC News:
Trump's Pick of Bannon as Chief Strategist Sparks Backlash
Presidential Campaign Brings the Alt-Right Out of Shadows
Prosecutor Probes Trump Campaign CEO Bannon's Voter Record
There was no shortage of reaction.
Evan McMullin, who ran for the White House as an independent and won 21 percent of the vote in Utah:
Evan McMullin tweet
John Weaver, a top strategist for Ohio Governor John Kasich:
John Weaver tweet
Jonathan Greenblatt, chief executive of the Anti-Defamation League:
Jonathan Greenblatt tweet
Greenblatt praised Trump's choice of Priebus, but bashed Bannon's new role.
"It is a sad day when a man who presided over the premier website of the 'alt-right' a loose-knit group of white nationalists and unabashed anti-Semites and racists is slated to be a senior staff member in the 'people's house,'" he added.
Joel Pollak, who worked for Bannon at Breitbart:
Joel Pollak tweet
Pollak told NBC News that the soon-to-be White House chief strategist was not anti-Semitic, racist or anti-woman.
He called Bannon a champion of a diverse range of conservative voices.
Marion Le Pen, the granddaughter of the founder of France's far-right National Front party:
Marion Le Pen tweet
The Council on American-Islamic Relations:
CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad that Bannon's appointment adds fuel to the fire of racial and ethnic hatred and division in America.
"The appointment of Stephen Bannon as a top Trump administration strategist sends the disturbing message that anti-Muslim conspiracy theories and White nationalist ideology will be welcome in the White House," Awad added. "We urge President-elect Trump to reconsider this ill-advised appointment if he truly seeks to unite Americans."
CAIR National tweet
The organization said Bannon "promoted conspiracy theories that "paint a dark and paranoid picture" of American Muslims. Breitbart News traffics in misogynistic and racist stories targeting women, people of color and immigrants."
A spokesman for Harry Reid, the Senate minority leader:
"President-elect Trump's choice of Steve Bannon as his top aide signals that white supremacists will be represented at the highest levels in Trump's White House," Adam Jentleson said. "It is easy to see why the KKK views Trump as their champion when Trump appoints one of the foremost peddlers of white supremacist themes and rhetoric as his top aide ... Sworn testimony in a court case alleged that Bannon committed violent domestic abuse and stated that he 'didn't want the girls going to school with Jews.'"
Scot Vorse, a longtime friend and ex-business partner of Bannon:
Vorse drew a distinction between what he described as Bannon's inclusive personal views and Breitbart's "provocative" ones.
The Southern Poverty Law Center:
The Southern Poverty Law Center tweet
U.K.-based journalist Andre Walker:
Andre Walker tweet
The New York Observer columnist added that Bannon would be "superb" in his new position.
"Within the context of risks caused by the incidents and of social tension, our citizens who live in the U.S., or who are considering travelling there, should be cautious," the ministry said in a statement.
Turkey warned its citizens about travel to the United States on Saturday in response to what the foreign ministry called increasingly violent protests against President-elect Donald Trump.
Demonstrators planned to gather again on Saturday in U.S. cities nationwide to protest against Trump, whose election they say poses a threat to their civil and human rights, a day after a protester was shot in Portland, Oregon.
Last month, the U.S. State Department updated its travel warning on Turkey, ordering family members of consulate employees in Istanbul to leave the country, citing threats against U.S. citizens.
There has been growing tension between the two NATO allies after repeated calls from Turkey to extradite U.S.-based cleric Fethullah Gulen, who Ankara blames for a failed coup in July.
Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said on Wednesday he hoped for an improvement in bilateral ties after Trump's victory, and again called for Gulen's extradition.
SOUTH GLENS FALLS >> Thank you for your 29 years of service to New York State. Rest easy. We have the watch.
The words rang out over a silent, grieving crowd at the Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville on Monday before Trooper Timothy Pratt, a veteran of the New York State Police, was put to rest. He was 55.
Hours prior, thousands gathered at the Saint Michaels Catholic Church in South Glens Falls to honor the fallen trooper, who died Oct. 26 after a vehicle struck him while he was assisting another driver. The incident occurred in front of the Wilton State Police barracks. A truck had pulled into a middle turning lane on Ballard Road, unsure of where they were going. Pratt had pulled into the Ballard Road Elementary School driveway and walked over to the truck to assist. Upon stepping down from the truck, Pratt was hit by the oncoming car.
This unexpected tragedy has brought together not only the Capital Region community, but the law enforcement community throughout the country. Members of law enforcement agencies from across New York and beyond gathered Monday to remember one of their own. Gov. Andrew Cuomo was also among those who attended.
While Pratt was a nearly 30-year veteran of the force, he was known for so much more than his badge and his duty. Aside from family, close friends and the law enforcement community, members of the Harley Owners Group also paid their respects. According to friend of the family Judy Provo, Pratt was an avid Harley-Davidson enthusiast, and would lead the Americade motor-rally from Albany to New York City each year.
Hes going to be missed, Provo said. I dont think they could have fit everyone in here who knew him. Great guy, but he wont be forgotten.
They couldnt fit everyone who knew him, or didnt know him. Those who didnt know him personally, like Harley Owners Group members Jack Herring and Robert Twilley, still showed their support. It is a testament to just how much Pratt was respected in various communities. In his passing, those communities have become one.
Its impressive to see motorcycles and officers from all over the country, Twilley said.
Provo has a stronger connection to Pratt and his family, as both her and Pratts fathers were troopers together. Pratts late father, Edward Pratt, retired from NYS Police in 1970 as a zone sergeant in Troop G, the same troop that Pratt spent his entire career.
He was always smiling, Provo said. Was always the first to help anybody, to do anything. If it had to be done, dont ask, because hed be thereits a great loss to the community.
Pratt is survived by his fiancee, Susan Clark, and three children, James, 31, Sarah, 29, and Shane, 27. Provo, despite the somberness of the day, was happy to talk about her late friend.
Talking about people keeps them alive, Provo said. Memories do keep people alive, as long as you talk about them.
Did Pope Francis just publicly endorse Communism? Recent comments have prompted many to suggest he has. During an interview with Eugenio Scalfari, they had the following exchange:
[Scalfari:] You told me some time ago that the precept, Love your neighbour as thyself had to change, given the dark times that we are going through, and become more than thyself. So you yearn for a society where equality dominates. This, as you know, is the programme of Marxist socialism and then of communism. Are you therefore thinking of a Marxist type of society?
[Francis:] It it has been said many times and my response has always been that, if anything, it is the communists who think like Christians. Christ spoke of a society where the poor, the weak and the marginalized have the right to decide. Not demagogues, not Barabbas, but the people, the poor, whether they have faith in a transcendent God or not. It is they who must help to achieve equality and freedom (emphasis added)
Actons director of research, Samuel Gregg, suggests that theres something else going on. In a recent article for The Stream, he begins: Marxists, Marxist ideas and Marxist regimes have brought death and destruction to millions. Yet according to Pope Francis, if anything, the communists think like Christians. Whats going on here? He goes on to note that though some have accused the Pope of Marxist sympathies, that is simply not true:
For one thing, Francis has specified that Communism is a mistaken idea. Back in a 2013 interview with the Italian newspaper La Stampa, the pope stated that Marxist ideology is wrong. Likewise, the Argentine home-grown theology of the people which has influenced Franciss thought explicitly rejects Marxist philosophy and analysis. Nor has Francis hesitated to canonize Catholics martyred by Communist regimes. Hes even conferred a cardinals hat upon an Albanian priest, Father Ernest Troshani Simoni, who was twice sentenced to death by Enver Hoxhas dictatorship one of the very worst Communist regimes. These arent the words or actions of a Communist fellow-traveler or apologist.
Rather than offering a ringing endorsement for Communism and Marxism, Gregg offers this interpretation of the popes remarks:
One possible interpretation of the popes words about Communism is that they reflect his belief that some people are drawn to Marxism because they regard Communism as being on the side of the worlds underdogs. During a 2015 interview, the pope suggested that Communists were, in a way, closet Christians. They had stolen, he said, the flag of the poor from Christians. These themes resurfaced in a more recent interview of Francis this time conducted by the self-described atheist, the 92 year-old Italian journalist Eugenio Scalfari. Caution is advised when reading any of Scalfaris interviews. Scalfaris renditions of his conversations with prominent figures are based on memory rather than notes or recordings. Thats bound to raise questions about the veracity of whats written (not to mention the prudence of talking to Scalfari, but thats a different matter). Scalfaris questions are also designed to encourage the pope to make controversial remarks. In most cases, Francis politely deflects them.
Gregg points out that communism, by definition, is fundamentally incompatible with Christianity:
In the first place, Marxism is rooted in atheism and philosophical materialism. Christianity is not. Thats a rather fundamental and irreconcilable difference. Second, virtually all Marxist thinkers and practitioners Marx, Engels, Lenin, Stalin, Mao, Castro, Che Guevara, Pol Pot, etc. hold that the ends justifies the means. Small o orthodox Christianity, with its insistence upon moral absolutes which admit of no exception, specifically refutes that claim. Third, Marxism, Marxists and Marxist movements dont see the poor as Christianity does: i.e., as human beings who need to be loved and assisted. Instead Communism views the poor like all human beings as simply moving-parts of the dialectics of history. The economically less-well off, from a Marxist standpoint, have no intrinsic worth by virtue of their poverty or status as human beings. Such a materialist and instrumentalist perspective is light-years away from Christianitys view of those in poverty and human beings more generally.
The problem, according to Gregg, is that while Pope Francis is no Marxist, his imprecision with language lends itself to generating the type of confusion thats arisen from this interview. So too does the popes tendency to conflate economic equality with poverty, which occurs in several places in the interview. But poverty and inequality are not, Gregg points out, the same thing. He concludes with this thought:
One of Pope Franciss many paradoxes is that, while he consistently and rightly denounces any idolatry of wealth and the type of materialist mindset which reduces everything to economics, the pope often articulates curiously economistic explanations for the worlds ills. Material poverty is something all Christians must be committed to working to reduce. Lets not pretend, however, that Christians and Marxists think the same way about poverty or equality for that matter. The simple truth is that they dont.
Read Does Pope Francis really believe that Communists think like Christians? at the Stream
The Missourians Opinion section is a public forum for the discussion of ideas. The views presented in this piece are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Missourian or the University of Missouri. If you would like to contribute to the Opinion page with a response or an original topic of your own, visit our submission form
Foundation adds another $25M to Kinder Institute
The Kinder Foundation is giving the Kinder Institute on Constitutional Democracy another $25 million, bringing its total to $60 million.
Donna James Leads a Bold Plan to Revive Victorias Secret
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When you show someone Apple's new 13-in MacBook Pro -- the one with the virtual Touch Bar -- the first thing they'll want to do is play with the darn thing. They'll adjust the screen brightness or turn up the volume. Launch some apps to see the virtual buttons change. And slide their fingers along it to see how it feels.
And they'll probably agree that, as innovations go, this is one cool update to a laptop line that was long overdue for an upgrade.
But that's not the only big change to the 13-in. model that I've just unboxed -- or the larger 15-in. models due to arrive later this week. Here's what would-be buyers eyeing the new MacBook Pro are most likely to notice.
The Space Gray aluminum body is flat-out gorgeous, and marks a welcome break from aluminum-and-black look of previous models. The Retina screen is not just brighter, but shows more saturated colors than any Retina screen I've used. (For the first time, I had to turn the brightness down a couple of notches.)
The keyboard is, well, different. It's flatter, shallower and has a hollow-sounding "click" when keys are pressed. The Trackpad, where you spend a lot of time navigating through apps, clicking and pinching and swiping, is indeed huge compared to previous models.
Oh, and there are exactly four ports -- two on each side -- and an old-school audio jack. The USB-C-style Thunderbolt 3 ports represent a leap into the future, and they mean you're almost certainly going to need adapters to connect up older peripherals, whether it's an external monitor, a backup drive, an external keyboard or even a thumbnail drive. (There's a reason .)
But it's the Touch Bar, which Apple execs highlighted when the new MacBook Pros were unveiled on Oct. 27, that sets this laptop apart from earlier models. The Touch Bar replaces the function keys at the top of the keyboard with a lighted strip that dynamically changes depending on what application you're using.
It also returns to the MacBook Pro something that's been missing from Macs in recent years: fun. By combining the company's usual attention to detail and design with a bit of whimsy, the Touch Bar showcases technology in a way that makes you want to discover just what happens when you use it.
The Touch Bar and Touch ID
Nestled at the top of the keyboard where the function keys used to be, the new Touch Bar is the design change for this generation of MacBook Pros. (There is also the 13-in model with normal function keys.) And it really is useful -- though it's going to require retraining some muscle memory to get the most out of it in day-to-day use.
The Touch Bar is essentially a thin, horizontal, full-color OLED touch screen that offers various functions that change as you move through apps or macOS Sierra. (The display is 2170 x 60 pixels, and is set up so that the optimum viewing angle is 45 degrees.)
Select the desktop with your cursor, and the Touch Bar lets you do things like increase and decrease the screen brightness or audio, access Siri or skip through the tracks playing in iTunes. Launch the Mail program and you can tap the Touch Bar to start a new email, reply to someone, file an email or mark something as junk. It even suggests words based on the context of what you're writing, just as iOS does on the iPhone when sending texts and emails.
The TouchBar also allows you to tap a virtual button and then use it as a slider (such as when changing the screen brightness). Functions change instantly and the Touch Bar is always well-lit (there's no separate brightness control for it). The finish makes it feel like one of the keys on the keyboard -- albeit a very, very wide one. You can even customize it by dragging icons from the display to the Touch Bar.
Ken Mingis The Touch Bar can be customized by dragging and dropping "key" icons from the screen to the keyboard.
So it's cool, and it works as billed. But is it useful? Yes, although in limited ways at the moment. Once more apps are updated to take advantage of it -- Microsoft has already said it plans to do just that with its Office suite -- it'll be even more useful. So it has great potential, as long as you remember to use it fully.
Touch ID is useful in a different way. Integrated at the right-side end of the Touch Bar, it works pretty much as Touch ID works on the iPhone or iPad. You hold your finger on the sensor until it reads your fingerprint pattern, and then you can use it to unlock your MacBook Pro or make online purchases. Setting it up is simple, and it's worked every time I've used it (though I haven't tried to authenticate any purchases with it yet).
Ken Mingis The Touch Bar points to the Touch ID button to remind you it can be used to unlock the computer.
And The Touch ID button also doubles as a Power button. You don't need it, since the MacBook Pro comes on when you raise the screen. But in the event of a crash requiring a hard restart, you just hold down the Touch ID button for 16 seconds.
Screen, keyboard and trackpad
Apple didn't spend a lot of time talking up the new Retina display last month, but its execs should have. The screen is noticeably better than the one in the last-generation MacBook Pro. The scaled resolution is unchanged in the 13-in. model, meaning it's still 1680 x 1050 pixels. But the brighter screen and the wider P3 color gamut deliver vibrant colors and incredibly sharp text. Apple says the new screen is 67% brighter, offers 67% greater contrast -- and yet it's also more energy efficient.
To me it looks like the difference between a high-end 4K TV (last-year's MacBook Pro) and an OLED 4K TV (this new one). The difference is that dramatic.
As for the keyboard, I'm a little less celebratory. This is the second generation of the one that debuted on the smaller MacBook last year. It has a butterfly mechanism that allows the keys to be shallower (and consequently lets Apple slim down the laptop's thickness by several millimeters). The key travel is flatter than in the past, and it's going to take some getting used to.
I'm certainly able to type as fast as before, and the full-size keyboard has keys with individual LEDs that light up in the dark. That means there's no light bleed around them, and make for an upscale, polished look. But the clicky sound of the keys is louder than I'm used to, and undercuts the design. If noisy keys bug you, type on one before you buy. They should appear in Apple stores in the next week or so.
Ken Mingis The oversized keys are backllit with individual LEDs. Here, the Touch Bar shows some of the options when Mail is open. Note also the oversized trackpad.
As for the new Trackpad, it's huge -- roughly 50% larger than in the past. That allows you to more easily use pinch and scroll motions to navigate through the OS and apps. And Apple's palm-rejection software seems to work just fine. I have yet to have a problem where resting my hand on the trackpad led to unwanted input.
All USB-C, all the time
One of the big concerns for would-be buyers involves Apple's decision to do away with the various ports. USB-A, SD card slots, Ethernet, display ports -- they're all gone, replaced here with the USB-C ports. Sure, the audio jack means you can use your old headphones (or wireless ones), but even something as simple as connecting an iPhone or iPad to sync with the laptop requires an adapter. That mismatch is rather un-Apple-like.
That said, the ports are Thunderbolt 3 port, meaning they can carry up to 40Gbps of data and you connect any device to any port. Want to plug in the charging cable on the right side instead of the left? (I do.) You're in luck. You can also connect multiple external monitors. But if you have a lot of peripherals -- anything from an external display to a backup drive or keyboard -- you'll need an adapter. That may explain to drop prices on the various adapters and dongles it sells.
As for me, I only ever plug in my Time Machine backup drive, an iPhone and an iPad. And I already have a mini-port replicator that allows me to connect to USB-C. The port issue matters to potential buyers, but I wouldn't let it stop you from getting the new MacBook Pro.
The line-up and specs
Apple actually unveiled three new MacBook Pros last month. There are two models with the Touch Bar -- the 13-in. and 15-in. versions -- and a 13-incher that has traditional function keys. That latter model has two USB-C ports instead of four, but otherwise offers all of the other updates; it won plaudits from Computerworld's Michael deAgonia. If you don't care about the Touch Bar, that's the Pro for you. Plus, it starts at $1,499 -- a full $300 less than this model.
If you do want the Touch Bar, you're going to pay. The least expensive MacBook Pro with it (the one I've been using) starts at $1,799. The cheapest 15-in. model is $2,399; like this one, it comes with just 256GB of storage. You can also custom-order a MacBook Pro and get a slightly faster processor and up to 2TB of SSD-based storage. Or you can spend $2,799 and get 512GB of storage, a faster quad-core i7 processor and a slightly better Radeon Pro graphics card. That's the one I bought for myself.
All 13-in. models start with 8GB of RAM, but for $200 more, you can double that to 16GB; all 15-in. models come with 16GB of RAM. That's more than enough for what most people will need, but it has prompted concerns among some users about whether it will be enough in a few years. (Given the memory compression in macOS Sierra, I expect it to be just fine down the road, but your mileage may vary.)
If you want to max out a MacBook Pro, you can opt for a speedier processor (the dual-core i5 in the 13-in. model maxes out at 3.3GHz; the quad-core i7 in the 15-in. model tops out at 2.9GHz); upgrade the GPU; and get a 2TB SSD. It'll cost you $4,299, plus tax. Spend wisely.
Ken Mingis The Touch Bar also shows tabs when Safari is in use and you can select them with a quick tap.
Odds, ends and final thoughts
The launch of this year's MacBook Pro caused a lot of consternation among the Mac faithful, with complaints focused on higher prices, the wholesale move to USB-C, storage limits on entry-level models and a 16GB ceiling on RAM. Those latter two prompted my colleague, Computerworld freelance writer Michael deAgonia, to go on an extended rant during my "Mingis on Tech" show. (See the video below.) He's not alone; columnist Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols has doubts as well.
Other non-buyers are upset that the traditional Apple start-up chime is gone (no longer needed since the MacBook Pro powers up as you raise the lid); some also lament the loss of the lighted Apple on the backside of the display. Still others wanted more powerful GPU cards.
Those are generally valid concerns -- I'll miss the familiar Mac start-up BOING -- but they miss the larger point. By its nature, any laptop design involves compromises. Thin and light means less room for a big battery (or different ports). A faster CPU or GPU could mean more heat. A different keyboard means added thickness. And on and on.
Even so, Apple says that sales of the new model have been brisk, and delivery dates are already stretching into December. So someone is buying these things. Just take a look at excited buyers on this Macrumors forum trying to figure out when their new laptops will arrive. (The 15-in. model I ordered 10 minutes after the Oct. 27 event ended is set to arrive Thursday. I got the shipping notice yesterday.)
Having spent a few days with the smaller MacBook Pro, I'm confident I made the right choice. The new look, updated internals, the super-bright screen and the innovative Touch Bar all deliver in spades. Battery life seems to match Apple's 10-hour estimate. The SSD drive really is super speedy. That being the case, I'm curious to see whether deAgonia changes his tune after he's had some time with a 15-in. Touch Bar model for his upcoming review.
Samsung may be down, but its not out it seems deeply committed to the mobile industry and this morning announced a new deal to take on Cupertino: an $8 billion purchase of Harman International.
Drive by
If this deal goes through it will be the biggest acquisition Samsungs made. Its biggest was apparently an $800 million purchase of AST. The investment means it has bought itself the chance to become a big cheese in future automotive systems, a direct challenge to Apples CarPlay and to Google Auto.
CarPlay is already in use by over 40 automakers with numerous vehicles now being made available with it built-in. Apples worked hard to achieve such scale, but now it looks like Samsung has bought it in one -- Harman reached major deals with Fiat Chrysler and General Motors, has $24 billion of orders booked and its equipment is already in use in 30 million cars.
The plan
Samsung says Harmans experience designing and integrating sophisticated in-vehicle technologies, as well as its long-term relationships with most of the worlds largest automakers, will create significant growth opportunities for the combined business. Samsung hopes to bring its knowledge, experience and distribution channels to the deal.
It seems pretty clear that Samsung is now as keen on getting into the connected car segment as Apple has reportedly been. It even created an automotive business division last year, and recently invested in Chinese automaker, BYD.
"The vehicle of tomorrow will be transformed by smart technology and connectivity in the same way that simple feature phones have become sophisticated smart devices over the past decade," Young Sohn, Samsung's president and chief strategy officer, said in a statement.
Android hurt too
Will it be good news for Googles in-car Android plans? I dont think so. I imagine Samsung will use connected vehicles as an inflection point through which to increase the presence of its own open source OS, Tizen. It knows it must create its own unique identity if it wants to build a sustainable position in mobile and it doesnt have that with Android, as everyone offers the same thing and competes on price.
Apples uncertainty
Its unclear what kind of an impact the move will have on Apple. Apple and Harman have an extensive history, way back at the turn of the century Apple CDO, Jony Ive, designed the iSub subwoofer system to accompany the Harman Kardon Sound Sticks. I seem to recall these were designed on the back of a napkin at a meeting, but this may well be apocryphal. Apple may want to consider that by entering the automotive market with CarPlay and Apple Car it may have created a competitor from an ally.
Looking forward
Apples continued attempt to expand across multiple industries means it is creating competition in every space in which it operates. This could be great for consumers who should benefit from a range of cutting edge product designs, but Apple wont win in every sector. I presume that Tim Cooks company right now is pushing at every boundary in its attempt to identify those it can shift.
Meanwhile, it looks like Apple and Samsung are taking their competition to the streets, quite literally.
Google+? If you use social media and happen to be a Google+ user, why not join AppleHolic's Kool Aid Corner community and join the conversation as we pursue the spirit of the New Model Apple?
Got a story? Drop me a line via Twitter or in comments below and let me know. I'd like it if you chose to follow me on Twitter so I can let you know when fresh items are published here first on Computerworld.
Nadhim Zahawi is a member of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee and MP for Stratford On Avon.
The idea of a President Donald Trump is met with a mixture of anxiety and confusion in Britain. It is safe to say that if this election had been held in the UK, with the same two candidates and their same policy platforms, Clinton would have won a landslide.
The wilder and more surprising pronouncements that Trump has made during this campaign have been widely and breathlessly reported in this country, with many policies that would never be considered by political leaders in the UK. These have included advocating torture, suggesting the carpet bombing of ISIS and targeting their family members, banning people from the country on the basis of their religion and starting a trade war with China, among others. That is why most people in the UK could not see any other result than a safe Hillary Clinton win, and now cannot understand why anyone would vote for a man advocating these policies.
But when we view this election through the prism of hindsight, it becomes clear that its result was a classic case of its the economy, stupid and a desire for change, as swathes of the traditionally Democrat voting areas of Ohio, Pennsylvania and Michigan turned red. Weve heard regularly in the last few days about the left behind voters in the Rust Belt, and we will hear more about them as analysts delve deeper into the data, but the reality is a simple one. These voters grew up in factory towns, where the local steel mill or car plant has provided solid, steady and skilled employment for generations, but have now been shut down. They havent seen the owners go bankrupt or the companies go out of business: instead, they just hear about new factories opening up in Mexico.
They then hear various Governments and politicians over a number of years, including Clinton, talking about the benefits of free trade, and they have seen only the downside. The reality is that free trade does provide huge national benefits, but it is no argument to someone who has lost their job and 100 per cent of their income, that this has helped national GDP growth move along at two or three per cent. Trump came along as a politician who offered them something new: he claimed he would rip up trade deals like NAFTA and the proposed Trans-Pacific Partnership Deal. He is now rumoured to be planning the largest economic stimulus in American history.
If youre one of these workers, why wouldnt you vote for the candidate offering that opportunity? If youre working in a minimum wage job after years of skilled, well paid labour, or if youve been unemployed for years, then why not give it a chance? As Trump himself said: What the hell do you have to lose? Arguments that his disruption of free trade, or inexperienced management of the economy will only make things worse, are much less convincing to those who already believe they have lost it all.
The desire for change also spread to the middle classes, too, with the poor implementation of Obamacare, and Trumps has promised to change the system. Many workers saw their insurance premiums going through the roof, and in some cases have experienced a decrease in service too. Even those who previously considered themselves financially comfortable have suddenly found themselves struggling to get by, or have been willing to risk a fine rather than pay the insurance premium.
The overall policy is the right one, and much needed; but its poor implementation has undermined its popularity. Importantly, Trump has now suggested he will maintain important sections of Obamacare, including banning insurance companies from refusing applicants with pre-existing health conditions. It remains to be seen how it will be possible to remove the bad parts of Obamacare while preserving the beneficial aspects, but once again Americans wanted to vote for the candidate who promised to give it a go.
Voter in the U.S, like their counterparts in the UK, are concerned about immigration. However, just as over here, it is not the most important issue. For the most part people want to have control over the rules of immigration, and they want these rules to be stuck to if they are not, after all, then that undermines the whole immigration system. This is where the desire for more border security comes from in America. In 2012, the Department for Homeland Security estimated that there were 11.4 unauthorised migrants in the country. In 2014, the Border Patrol reported apprehending 486,651 inadmissible non citizens, with 99 per cent of these cases occurring on the south-west border with Mexico.
It is easy to write these concerns off as racism (as Matthew Parris among others has done), and indeed there will be racists taking advantage but many of those who switched to Trump had previously voted for Obama. The majority of voters just want control of the numbers of people who enter the country, and want to decide on the criteria they must match. When hundreds of thousands of people are trying to get into the country outside of the legal structures in place, you can understand why many desire better and more permanent physical obstructions. Again, the giant cost and engineering difficulty of Trumps wall will, most likely, cause his vision to be compromised, but voters want action to be taken. He offered that action.
Clinton, perhaps inevitably, became the continuity candidate always a risk in any election. Not just because she was a Democrat following Obama, but because she was a career politician saying broadly what politicians from both parties have been saying on these subjects for decades. Her traditional approach made an ever-starker contrast with the unorthodoxy of Trump, and she came to rely on support from Barack and Michelle Obama to provide more personality on the campaign train. It wasnt enough.
This is not about elites versus a man of the people. This is about understanding the real impacts on communities and what they want, rather than just listening to those who say a policy is working the question has to be: work for who?
Trump spoke to these voters who have suffered economic pain, who had become frustrated with Government policy and who have been taken for granted for too long, and said: why not vote for me? Whatever your view of Trumps campaign and the policies he advocated, it is welcome to see him adopting a more pragmatic and consensual approach now that he stands on the threshold of office. And now that hes won our Government is right to set about building bridges, working together and strengthening the ties between our two countries. He is the President of the United States, so we must work together and create a new special relationship. I hope we will.
As horrified members of the Establishment on both sides of the Atlantic struggled to come to terms with the prospect of President Donald Trump, the British Foreign Secretary had a message for his beloved European friends and colleagues:
I think its time we snapped out of the general doom and gloom about the result of this election and the collective whinge-arama that seems to be going on in some places.
One of Boris Johnsons strengths, displayed both in his journalism and in his politics, is the speed with which he reacts to a moving story. He saw that refusing to accept Trumps victory would be the height of stupidity.
By coining a term unknown to diplomacy whinge-arama and refusing to attend yesterdays special EU meeting to discuss Trumps victory, Johnson advertised the British Governments welcome to the President elect.
He had himself been extremely rude about Trump in the past, as when he remarked that Donald Trump is clearly out of his mind.
But times have changed, and Johnson now points out that Trump wants to do a free trade deal with us, which is a great opportunity.
The possibilities are not, however, all good. As Paul Goodman pointed out yesterday, Trump has cast the future of NATO into doubt. If isolationism triumphs in Washington, we could soon find ourselves needing to construct a new, European system of collective security.
Foreign policy experts have cautioned in recent days that strategic differences between Europe and the United States could widen as a result of Trumps victory.
So Johnson finds himself at the centre of events, which is exactly where he likes to be. He is deeply involved both in Brexit and in the linked question of how to handle Trump.
The temptation presents itself to make an audacious bid to elbow Nigel Farage aside, and become Trumps best friend in Britain.
When Harold Macmillan was Minister Resident at Allied Forces HQ in Algiers during the Second World War, he would describe to new arrivals from London, such as Richard Crossman, how to deal with the Americans, who under General Eisenhower were in overall command of the Anglo-American forces:
We, my dear Crossman, are Greeks in this American empire. You will find the Americans much as the Greeks found the Romans great big, vulgar, bustling people, more vigorous than we are and also more idle, with more unspoiled virtues but also more corrupt. We must run AFHQ as the Greek slaves ran the operations of the Emperor Claudius.
Johnson will be well aware of this vainglorious analogy, made by his fellow classicist and Balliol man. One hopes he will also bear in mind the enthusiasm with which the Americans helped to wind up the British Empire.
The Foreign Secretary revels in uncertainty. As he himself once told an interviewer,
There comes a point when youve got to put the dynamite under your own tram tracksderail yourself. See what happens.
His whole life has been a preparation for being unprepared. So at a time when scant preparation has been made for Trumps presidency or indeed for Brexit, and foreign policy cannot consist of business as usual, his temperament might be thought to suit him to be Foreign Secretary.
Foreign policy experts tend, however, to find him a reprehensible figure. One former diplomat, whom I had always imagined to be a man of peace, said of Johnson, Id push him off his bike if I saw him in the street.
The experts (at least those who have not actually worked with him) accuse him of lack of self-discipline, lack of content in his vapid assurances, insistence on seeing foreigners as raw material for jokes, the belief that he can bullshit because hes very bright, and the height of irresponsibility for drawing up no plan for Brexit.
To them, he is the British version of Trump. Johnson has long been scorned by his opponents as a clown, but now they hate him for having persuaded the British people to vote No.
In some ways, this is to Johnsons advantage. He is underestimated by his critics. They are determined to see him as flippant, unreliable and incompetent.
But it makes writing about him rather difficult. For as soon as one suggests that this priggish, pedantic, hysterical onslaught on him is absurdly overdone, and he has the potential to become a great Foreign Secretary, one is liable to be dismissed as a mere apologist.
While working on the first and most frivolous biography of him, Boris: The Adventures of Boris Johnson just updated to include the drama of the referendum and the 20 stirring days in which Theresa May became Prime Minister and Johnson Foreign Secretary I took care to include the evidence one would need to make the case both for and against him.
When the book first came out, Johnson described it in a genial tone as rubbish, a verdict with which Michael Gove now concurs. It is heartening to find they can agree on something.
The much wider question is whether as Foreign Secretary Johnson can win the respect of his critics. And here James Landale, diplomatic correspondent of the BBC, points to the possibility that Johnsons friends, or colleagues, could be more subversive than his enemies:
Now every government has a court jester and Boris Johnson will never be able to escape that title. But his role in this government is crucial. He is there to convince the international community that Britain is not turning its back on the world post Brexit, that Britain has a positive role to play in global affairs. And to do that he needs to be taken seriously. Many foreign politicians and diplomats that I speak to tell me they are pleasantly surprised when they meet the Foreign Secretary for the first time. They talk of the man behind the caricature the cultured, over-educated intellectual who often speaks a bit of their language and who can be thoughtful when he is not gripped by banter. The problem is that many others who have not met the Foreign Secretary in person often still see him as a kind of upmarket Nigel Farage, a Eurosceptic clown with clout. So to do his job, Britains diplomat-in-chief needs every bit of credibility he can lay his hands on. He is already the butt of many jokes. The last thing he needs is his prime minister adding to the mirth.
That was written after Johnson accepted an award from the Spectator. He diminished the envy people might feel of him by comparing himself with characteristically exaggerated self-deprecation to Michael Heseltines Alsatian dog, whose life had unexpectedly been spared, though only for a day.
The Prime Minister seized the chance to remind him: Boris, the dog was put downwhen its master decided it wasnt needed any more.
All very funny, and appropriate to the occasion, but can diplomacy be conducted in this style? Ten days ago, Johnson visited his German opposite number, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, in Berlin.
The BBC asked Steinmeier: I wonder, are you running out of patience with Britain?
Johnson interjected: Hes not running out of patience, I can tell you. This sounded wrong, at once impertinent and defensive, for as Steinmeier himself avowed, he was not particularly amused by Johnsons decision to back Brexit.
Members of the British foreign policy Establishment reckon Johnson has not got room for buffoonery now, and warn that he has not got much leeway with quite a large group of people.
Jonathan Powell, who was Tony Blairs chief of staff, observed after the American presidential election that Donald Trumps use of conciliatory words is a bit like listening to Boris Johnson trying to be serious its not really very convincing.
Such condescending dismissiveness is widespread among the chattering classes. But it says more about them than it does about Johnson. If they could bring themselves to look at him in a fair-minded way, they would admit he is a humane practitioner of the long-established though always evolving tradition of British politics. They should be giving thanks that Brexit is in the hands of such a liberal-minded Conservative.
Im sure Boris doesnt want to change his style, one elder statesman said, and Im sure he knows he has to do it.
His habitual style, both in politics and in journalism, is to handle some grave theme in so light a manner that it does not weigh on the spirits of his audience. Comedy is placed at the service of a message which could be stated in its baldest form in a sentence or two, and is usually rather serious.
Having reread many of his articles, I can confirm that very few of of them fail to make some thoughtful point, but that he has a compulsion to conceal the seriousness of his intent.
As Gove once put it in a Portrait written for a collection of Johnsons journalism: The use of laughter as a tool of political seduction is the quintessential Johnson manoeuvre.
So successful, or over-successful, is this Wodehousian camouflage that he is still widely seen as a Bertie Wooster figure. That is how he sounded in Michael & Boris: The Two Brexiteers, a radio play by David Morley broadcast on Wednesday of last week, with Alistair McGowan playing Johnson, and Gove portrayed as a disloyal version of Jeeves.
Though capable of adapting his tone, learning from setbacks, and indeed preserving a diplomatic silence and veiling his intentions, Johnson is quite unfitted to adapt his style in order to become, in T.S. Eliots words,
an attendant lord, one that will do To swell a progress, start a scene or two, Advise the prince; no doubt, an easy tool, Deferential, glad to be of use, Politic, cautious, and meticulous; Full of high sentence, but a bit obtuse
He will never subside for very long into the monstrous verbiage, an affront to the wider public, in which foreign affairs are discussed by conventionally serious people.
And where did wooing the Germans get David Cameron? For much of his Bloomberg speech, the then Prime Minister gazed directly at the German ambassador, whose approval clearly meant much to him.
Cameron took enormous trouble, via Ed Llewellyn, to avoid offending Berlin by demanding too much, but in the end Angela Merkel was nothing like as helpful as the British had hoped. The dreary old EU orthodoxies the kind of thing Johnson has scoffed at for decades reasserted themselves, including a lot of pious and inflexible guff about the four freedoms, along with no sympathy for the national freedom to control ones own borders.
Johnson is now in charge of a department which has suffered, with the popular vote to leave the EU, the most crushing blow to its world view and self-esteem since Sir Anthony Eden cut the Foreign Office out of his secret diplomacy and launched the Suez venture.
On Johnsons first day at the office, he addressed the entire staff. He was then asked what lunch he would like to be brought to him in his grandiose room. He went instead to the canteen, a practice he has continued since, and which people really notice. Hierarchy is tempered by camaraderie.
Vast quantities of paper descend on a Foreign Secretary, but Johnson calls in the officials who produce the paper and talks to them. He wants the people who work for him to enjoy themselves: an instinct which not all ministers possess, or are capable of showing.
As one official puts it, The Foreign Office is like a labrador. If you show it a bit of love, it will be eternally loyal. And Boris has tickled its tummy very well.
At the Conservative Party Conference, he delivered one of the few speeches worth listening to (here is the YouTube version), a grand survey of European history since the fall of the Berlin Wall, which began with a comic account of being told by his Russian opposite number: It was you guys who imposed democracy on us in 1990.
The Foreign Secretary went on to insist (a frequent refrain) that we are not leaving Europe, and delivered a paean of praise to Britain as a soft power superpower, which went down so well that he elicited a cheer from the Conservatives in Birmingham for the BBC as the single greatest and most effective ambassador for our culture and our values.
When Michael Cockerell profiled the Foreign Office, he interviewed Lord Renwick (Diplomatic Service 1963-95), who observed: The toughest negotiations any Foreign Secretary has are always with his own Prime Minister.
Prime Ministers generally prefer to run foreign policy from Number Ten: one thinks not only of Eden but of Margaret Thatcher and Tony Blair.
On Brexit, this will undoubtedly be true of May, and David Davis will be determined to play his part too, as will Liam Fox. But if I were working in the Foreign Office, I think I would reckon that Johnson, with his irrepressible urge to be in the thick of it, has a better chance than some quieter, more diplomatic figure of averting the departments marginalisation.
Johnsons mortal weakness in the recent leadership contest was that he failed to inspire trust, even from Gove, his companion in arms during the referendum. May won because she was seen as the most trustworthy candidate: a function above all of her steadiness as Home Secretary.
Can Johnson establish a similar record as Foreign Secretary? In order to carry out that job successfully, he will need to do so. Brexit depends on British ministers being seen as trustworthy, for only then can durable agreements be reached. As Talleyrand, one of the most brilliant of all diplomatists though not himself a byword for fidelity, put it at the end of his life:
The sight of Nigel Farage standing with Donald Trump in front of gold elevator doors has sent some UKIPers into an excited frenzy. They hail him as close friends with the President-elect, the original Mr Brexit, the bridge between Westminster and Washington. It feels like good news for UKIP.
Its certainly good news for Farage, but that isnt necessarily the same thing as good news for his party. Also on the visit to Trump Tower was Arron Banks, the multi-millionaire founder of Leave.EU.
Why was Banks there? In part, he was along for the ride. He regretted missing Farages trip to the Republican convention, and loved every minute of the later visit when the outgoing UKIP leader spoke at a Trump rally. Banks makes no secret of his love of adventure and his new-found addiction to politics, so was unlikely to pass up the prospect of this trip.
But it would be a mistake to simply dismiss it as (just) another boozy field trip. Trump looms large in Bankss thinking about his own political work in the UK.
He loves Farage, but dislikes much about UKIP. The tendency for some of its leading figures to disagree with him rankles, and the tiresome restrictions of having to consult and persuade colleagues dont sit easily with someone who views himself as a self-starter who answers to no-one. As he wrote recently:
UKIP started the ball rolling, but the world has moved on. With its remorseless infighting, and absence of a clearly defined mission, it is not fit to spearhead a great national movement in its current form. Its too traditional. Structurally, it is a mess, held together by rubber bands and by the extraordinary stamina of one man, Nigel Farage. It is clear that something new is required.
For some time, Banks has been testing the ground for the idea of setting up his own political party. He now prefers the term movement, citing Momentum. Corbyns revolutionary guard isnt an ideal inspiration it, too, is engulfed in factionalism and struggles even to win internal Labour elections. Bankss search for a more victorious example to follow has led him to Trump.
Here is someone who shares a love of outraging polite society, has embraced Farage, and has just won an election victory more through the air war than through a traditional ground game. In the referendum campaign, Banks found that building a campaigning machine capable of fighting the ground war is rather harder than coming up with tweets that wind up the media, so the idea that the latter could be a winning formula excites him.
Trumps victory has convinced him that even if he could bend it to his will, which he cant, UKIP wouldnt be an effective vehicle for replicating this success in the UK. He now appears ready to turn that from a threat in the UKIP leadership race into action. According to an article in The Times:
Arron Banks, a close friend of Nigel Farage and a major Ukip backer, is considering ditching the party he funds and creating a new movement that would stand 200 parliamentary candidates against the 200 worst, most corrupt MPs Mr Banks said that this new group would not take explicit party positions, and instead the candidates would stand on a one-term promise to push through fundamental change in Westminster. Among the ideas he thinks his new movement could support would be forcing through a change of the rules so that MPs can only hold office for two terms, abolition of the House of Lords and pushing for an elected senate, and insisting on a lower age limit of 40 for MPs to stop career politicians. Its a very simple agenda: to destroy the professional politician. I like the idea of clearing the place out, setting new rules, maybe reducing the number of MPs. Not a party from the left or right. Just to clear out the worst lot, Mr Banks said.
This is why that Trump visit heralds bad news for UKIP. Not only could they lose their major donor, but he wants to put his money and his organisation including many UKIP volunteers to work on a rival project in which his word goes. Worse, Farage himself could decamp to lead this new push he wants his life back, but he is enjoying this latest glory lap and could well be tempted to become the figurehead for Bankss new movement. Their target voters would be exactly the same as those targeted by UKIP, and it seems inevitable that their shared dislike of Douglas Carswell would see UKIPs only MP become a target for their campaign.
The idea itself, of course, isnt novel. Banks cites Martin Bell as his inspiration (which gives him another chance to have a crack at his other pet hate, Neil Hamilton). After the expenses scandal, a few independents such as Esther Rantzen tried to mimic Bell but fell flat.
Banks, of course, is mulling a well-funded national campaign to support such challengers. But someone has also tried that idea before. The fact that most readers wont have heard of the Jury Team rather demonstrates its failure to cut through.
Launched in 2009, it had a lot of similarities with Bankss plan.
Like Banks, its multi-millionaire founder, Sir Paul Judge, believed that the time was ripe for a movement of non-politician candidates to cut through on a motto of cleaning up politics. Like Banks, Judge promised a group of wealthy donors to ensure the Jury Team was well-funded. Like Banks, Judge demanded not that his candidates share any political world-view, but that they sign up to a programme of democratic reform including term limits for MPs. Like Banks, Judge cited Bells example and even managed to sign him up as a figurehead of the campaign.
If Judges analysis was right, he had a golden opportunity. Faith in party politics was at an all-time low. Events in Westminster were the talk of every pub in the land you would have been hard-pressed to find a voter who didnt know that MPs had claimed for porn, duck houses and moat-cleaning. People were angry, and the main parties had struggled to find a convincing answer. Surely a well-funded insurgency couldnt fail?
The Jury Team is now forgotten, which demonstrates how badly it crashed and burned. It proved hard to find decent candidates, and harder still to knit them together into anything coherent while simultaneously maintaining the principle that they were independents rather than compelled to toe a party line. A leadership that did what it wanted without a grassroots party to answer to predictably didnt have any way to learn or improve its strategy. Meanwhile, the main parties proved rather more resilient than expected, and the vast majority of voters went into the polling booth in 2010 mulling whether they wanted Labour, the Conservatives or the Liberal Democrats to govern, not whether they wanted a loose coalition of independents to impose term limits on MPs.
So not only is the idea not new, but it failed the last time it was tried.
Banks might outperform Judge, of course he has more money, a pre-existing organisation and Farage would be a far more famous figurehead than Martin Bell. But the structural challenges of candidate selection, message coherence and a reliance on good judgement from an unaccountable centre are still in place. UKIP insiders question whether Leave.EUs mostly UKIPer activists would fight against their own party.
Furthermore, the fact remains that voters might not like parties but they do innately understand what they are, know broadly what they stand for and tend, even now, to vote for them. The demand for such a campaign is also questionable; the Vaz story is no expenses scandal, Trump is far from universally popular in the UK, and while its easy to talk about riding a Brexit wave, the General Election is still supposedly four years away.
Banks could yet do UKIP serious damage, though. They already face a financial cliff when British MEPs are abolished, and have struggled to retain members during the chaotic leadership race. Losing their major donor and their most famous face at the same time would hurt but losing them to a rival operation which will compete with them for dissatisfied voters would only make the blow worse.
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The Windows Server 2016 patch, just like the monthly updates, won't differ much, but might suffer from some shortcomings. In late October, a "Patching with Windows Server 2016" blog was set up by Microsoft to explain the details about the patch, and when the server is getting it. Basically the server will be getting the patch in the form of two updates that would be done on different days of the month.
Windows Server 2016 Cumulative Updates
For the installation, there would be a security update at first, followed by a quality tested update some weeks later. Cumulative updates with security patches arrive by the second Tuesday of each month, and the quality fix updates arrive on the fourth Tuesday of each month.
Both the updates will contain all the past security updates and quality fixes, as Microsoft puts it. Microsoft earlier had a different update model for security patches and quality fixes, for its older servers and clients. These servers included the Windows 7 and Windows Server 2012. This time around, the older Windows products will be getting the security updates and fixes on the same day.
Many organisations have expressed dismay for these security updates, as they arrive superseded. What that means is that the quality update consists of the security patches in the security updates, making these security updates as unnecessary. Organisations can delay the supersedence of those updates, however System Center Configuration Manager 2007 users won't be able to modify the rules of the patch management system, Microsoft explains.
The 2016 Server update is more malleable as it easily permits organisations to look out for security updates, if that is what they want. Customers would be able to choose a security only update, rather than patching all the cumulative updates.
Other Monthly Updates
Preview updates for the Windows Server 2016 would arrive by the third Tuesday every month and these updates apply to Server. Moreover, the Server 2016 would be getting .NET framework monthly rollup, which are cumulative and arrive on second Tuesdays. There are two versions of rollups, one that has quality fixes and security patches, and another one which only has security patches, and both arrive on the same day.
Automatic Updates are Defaulted on Server 2016
The Server 2016 will be getting automatic updates by default for downloading the cumulative updates. However, organisations can select when to install these updates, if they are using Windows Server Update Services. This control provided to organisations, is important because the Server 2016 updates arrive as "optional" updates, and later they become "recommended". This is done for providing a testing period for IT pros.
Users can also use the Server Configuration tool (Scongif.cmd) for managing Windows Updates behavior.
See Now: What Republicans Don't Want You To Know About Obamacare
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'Rick And Morty' Season 3 might premiere soon as recent news on the show reveal that half of the animation has already been done, iTechPost reported.
The future of 'Rick And Morty' seemed bleak amid controversies surrounding the show's explicit content. News of cancellations of the show did frequent rounds of the media since the last Season 2 of the famous animation series aired back in 2014 with no news of a release date for Season 3 of 'Rick And Morty.'
'Creative differences' has been one of the most reported reasons for the hiatus of the show. However, these rumors were debunked by one of the producers, Dan Guterman, who said that they have already finished half of the animations of the upcoming Season 3 of 'Rick And Morty.' He even mentioned that all of the creative team are on one page and they can't wait to premiere Season 3 of 'Rick And Morty' soon.
According to Christian Daily, the earlier release date was pegged at Dec. 2 for Season 3 of 'Rick And Morty,' as fans speculated that it would make for a perfect Holiday gift by the creators of the show. However, with no confirmation yet on the release date, it is uncertain as of now, when Season 3 of 'Rick And Morty' will release, December or later.
In a report by Cinema Blend, writers Erica Rosbe and Sarah Carbiener admitted that half of 'Rick And Morty' Season 3 might be ready in animation already, so there are chances the show will air in December as previously stated day of release. However, without further confirmation from Adult Swim or from the creators, fans are still kept guessing that their favourite show would premiere soon.
Stay tuned to Counselheal for recent news, updates and spoilers of 'Rick And Morty' Season 3.
See Now: What Republicans Don't Want You To Know About Obamacare
Even if Anthony had a year to analyze and dissect each piece...(he couldn't tell if it would)... stand the harsh light of public exposure.
WUWT insider Willis Eschenbach tells you all you need to know about Anthony Watts and his blog, WattsUpWithThat (WUWT). As part of his scathing commentary , Wondering Willis accuses Anthony Watts of being clueless about the blog articles he posts. To paraphrase: Click here to read more.
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The thing is, you might not even realize the glasses are getting smaller, because businesses use every trick in the book to make them look and feel the same as always. Not only do bars and restaurants swap 14-ounce glasses for 16-ounce glasses while charging you more for the beer, but those glasses are often topped off with more foam and have thicker bottoms to ensure maximum cheapassness. You're receiving less than the 16 ounces you ordered, and a good percentage of that wasn't even drinkable (unless you like drinking solid glass).
The Wall Street Journal
"The 14-ounce one is just very insecure about its height, that's all."
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Is that even legal? Eh, not really, but no one cares. In 2013, Michigan legislators proposed a law to force anyone selling pints of beer to actually give you a pint of beer -- only to find out that this brand of bullshit is, technically, already forbidden by consumer protection laws. You know, the ones no one can be bothered to enforce. The same thing happened in other states, like Maine, where the governor actually vetoed an "Honest Pint" bill and called on pissed-off beer enthusiasts to simply not support the establishments that shortchange you.
RESULTS: Brazilian Grand Prix - Race results
Fernando Alonso has threatened not to back out of moves with Sebastian Vettel in the future even if it means they collide after accusing the Ferrari driver of running him off the circuit during the Brazilian Grand Prix.
The pair were disputing seventh place on lap 42 when Vettel initially passed at turn ten, only for a better exit by Alonso to get him back alongside around the outside as they rounded the long turn 11. However, with Vettel running his Ferrari to the kerb, Alonso was forced off onto the run-off before re-joining behind.
Though there was to be no investigation into the incident, an angry Alonso says he will take matters into his own hands in future instances if it comes down to the difference between hitting a wall or colliding with him.
"I don't think there will be any action against Vettel today, as they haven't said anything yet," the Spaniard said after finishing tenth. "There was a run-off in tarmac and I just used it, but if there was a wall for sure I would have either hit the wall or hit him, which is what I'll do next time. I'll hit him and he'll lose more points than me.
POINTS: The F1 Drivers' & Constructors' standings after the Brazilian GP
"In the rain we don't have the same visibility as in the dry, the mirrors were wet too, so I couldn't see anything behind me. In the end nothing happened, I went down the tarmac run-off but there will come a day in which someone will have to hit him so that he understands the track is for all of us."
Alonso's scathing words comes as Vettel faces growing pressure about his driving tactics in a year that has in turn seen him criticise a number of other drivers, namely Max Verstappen.
Vettel was penalised at the Mexican Grand Prix after he was judged to have 'moved under braking' - a rule he had previously campaigned for - though Ferrari is appealing the decision.
Even so, Vettel himself was upset with what he felt was an unfair pass by a charging Verstappen during the closing stages of the Interlagos race when the Red Bull driver forced him wide at Juncao as they disputed sixth.
"I think I was racing him side-by-side, he saw me, I still had a little bit of my nose ahead. He was much faster so it was about the corner where you get past. I don't think it was correct."
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Pizza, the worlds saddest polar bear, will be moved from a small glass cage in a Chinese mall to an ocean park in North China where he was born, reuniting him with his parents. Photo by Maizi/VShine
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Humane Society International, which works around the world on issues ranging from fighting wildlife trafficking to ending the dog meat trade and abuse of farm animals, is celebrating a number of victories in recent days:
Vietnam destroys two tons of ivory and rhino horn
Vietnam sounded a clarion call against elephant and rhino poaching this past week by destroying nearly two tons of ivory and rhino horn, along with a number of wild tiger and bear body parts confiscated from the illegal wildlife trade. Vietnam is one of the worlds largest consumers of rhino horn, and this is a major victory for HSI, which has been working with the Vietnamese government since 2013 to reduce ivory and rhino horn demand in the country.
The ivory and rhino horn destroyed in Vietnam are estimated to be worth more than $7 million and came from the slaughter of an estimated 330 African elephants and 23 rhinos. The event featuring the destruction of the ivory and rhino horn took place ahead of the Hanoi Conference on Illegal Wildlife Trade, which begins this week. Participants at the conference will call for tangible and unified action against the illegal wildlife trade. Ha Thi Tuyet Nga, director of the CITES Management Authority of Vietnam, said she hoped the destruction event would convince citizens in Vietnam and around the world to stop buying ivory and rhino horn and instead lend their voices to the call to protect elephants and rhinoceroses in the wild.
Vietnam now joins 20 countries in four continents that have destroyed their seized ivory and rhino stockpiles, with 26 such events taking place since 2011 alone.
These actions come in the midst of an unprecedented poaching and trafficking crisis that threatens elephants and rhinos: between 2010 and 2012, poachers killed an estimated 100,000 elephants to feed the global demand for ivory. Elephants in Central Africa have experienced a 65 percent reduction in their populations, and they will be wiped out if the poaching continues. In September 2016, the Great Elephant Census, the first pan-African aerial survey of savanna elephants in decades, revealed a disturbing 30 percent decline of the species since 2007. As for rhinos, only about 29,000 rhinos of five species remaining in the wild, even as poaching of these iconic animals for their horns continuing to escalate. Over the past decade, poachers killed more than 6,000 rhinos across Africa, with more than 1,300 poached in 2015 alone. And the problem is spreading, as evidenced by the emergence of new poaching hotspots where poachers did not previously target rhinos.
HSIs multi-faceted campaign to reduce the demand for rhino horn in Vietnam has reached an estimated 34 million peopleapproximately one third of the countrys population. According to national poll results, over the three years of the campaign, the percentage of people who believe that rhino horn has medicinal value, and those who use and buy rhino horn, has decreased significantly.
HSI recently opened an office in Hanoi to expand and enhance our work on wildlife and other pressing animal protection issues in the country.
Pizza, the worlds saddest polar bear, gets a reprieve
In another positive development over the weekend for HSI and its partners, the Grandview Mall in China announced it will move Pizza, dubbed the worlds saddest polar bear, from a small glass cage in the mall to an ocean park in North China where he was born, reuniting him with his parents.
HSI released a video last month that showed Pizza exhibiting signs of mental distress in his unnatural surroundings a small, glass-fronted enclosure inside a mall with no snow or ice. The polar bear spent most of his day pacing in his enclosure, even as children and adults banged on the glass wall to get his attention and take selfies with him. His only contact with the world outside was an air vent in the wall. Although mall authorities are saying this is a temporary move while the mall is renovated, HSI and its local partners in China are urging the mall to make it permanent.
This is a sign of real progress, a clear indication that our collective voices have been heard, but it is not the end of the story. No amount of renovation can ever make a shopping mall a suitable home for a wild animal like a polar bear. So we applaud the authorities at Grandview Mall for making the decision to release Pizza into what we hope will be a better living environment, and you can be sure that we will be monitoring the situation closely.
McDonalds South Africa to go cage-free starting next year
We have one more HSI victory to celebrate today, in South Africa. McDonalds South Africa has announced plans to begin phasing in cage-free eggs at all of its restaurants starting next year.
In South Africa, most egg-laying hens are confined in wire battery cages, where each hen has about the space of a single sheet of paper to spend her whole life. This latest move will spare thousands of animals each year from a miserable life.
HSI has worked with food industry leaders around the world on their recent cage-free egg pledges, including Sodexo and Compass Group two of the worlds largest food service providers and Arcos Dorados, the largest McDonalds operator in Latin America.
Security News
Kaspersky Takes Aim At Microsoft, Alleging Antitrust Violations Around Anti-Virus And Windows 10 Updates
Sarah Kuranda
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Kaspersky Lab is taking aim at Microsoft, alleging the software vendor is edging out competitors in ways that violate antitrust laws with its latest Windows 10 update.
Kaspersky alleged that it was only given one week to make its software compatible with the latest security updates to Windows 10. The Moscow-based company said that included automatically deactivating all other anti-virus software and replacing it with Windows Defender anti-virus, limiting the number of anti-virus companies on a PC to one (other than Defender), as well as urging customers to replace compatible anti-virus alternatives with Windows Defender. Kaspersky alleged Microsoft is also limiting the ways for anti-virus companies to alert customers when renewals are due.
Microsoft, Redmond, Wash., did not respond to requests for comment.
[Related: Here's Who Made Gartner's 2016 Magic Quadrant For Endpoint Protection Platforms]
In a blog post late last week, Kaspersky CEO Eugene Kaspersky said he used to respect Microsoft's efforts to increase the security of its operating system, but the recent moves by the company have "left me very disappointed and dismayed." He said the changes make it clear that Microsoft's previous steps around security and overhauling of its operating system were part of a move to squeeze out independent software vendors.
"The trend is clear: Microsoft is gradually squeezing independent developers out of the Windows ecosystem if it has its own application for this or that purpose," Kaspersky said in the blog post. "In doing so, Microsoft is acting against the interests of users since a lot of its products are of inferior quality."
On Friday, the Russian antitrust authority opened an investigation into the issue, saying it will look into whether Microsoft violated country laws that prohibit companies from using their market position to prevent competitors from operating against them. In a statement about the investigation, Deputy Head of the Federal Antimonopoly Service Anatoly Golomolzin said the agency is looking into whether Microsoft's actions lead to an "unreasonable advantage" for the vendor.
"Our task is to ensure equal conditions for all participants on this market," Golomolzin said in a statement. Kaspersky said he has also urged the European Union to take action.
Kaspersky said he is pushing for Russia and the European Union to require Microsoft to provide updates to software developers well in advance of their release, inform users of incompatible software before updates, and ask users for permission before enabling Windows Defender.
"Diversity of an open ecosystem is an essential condition of its security. Competition gives rise to new ideas; technologies get polished, infrastructure gets developed, and all-round security gets raised," Kaspersky said in his blog post. "I hope we can find a resolution to this issue. I hope that we can work together with Microsoft not only for the benefit of the independent development community, but also and more importantly for those who trust us to protect them in the evolving threat landscape. Our companies need to be fighting cybercriminals together instead of fighting each other, and I have hope that this is still possible," he continued.
CRN reached out to other major anti-virus vendors, including Intel Security, Symantec and AVG (now part of Avast), about their own offerings and if they intend to file a lawsuit but had not heard back as of press time.
The concerns from Kaspersky come as Microsoft builds on its security portfolio, including making acquisitions and rolling out "enterprise-level security" changes to its new Windows 10 operating system. Microsoft has also received a lot of pushback for its efforts to push users to upgrade to Windows 10, with customers complaining about constant upgrade reminders and advertising for promoted third-party applications. This push has led to reports of some users turning off the upgrade option entirely, which would leave them out of the loop of critical security updates.
Solution providers said the lack of warnings and instantaneous updates are concerning especially around the impact it could have on third-party anti-virus offerings they sell to their customers. One solution provider executive, who partners with Kaspersky and other anti-virus vendors but did not want to be named, said this type of push could have major implications for customers, especially those with large deployments of anti-virus offerings.
"Do you just let your car manufacturer push automatic updates to your car? No, because you could be driving it," the executive said. "You need to understand what these things could be and what the impact could be."
Another concern, the executive said, is that Microsoft's anti-virus offering is "not something I would recommend" based on its third-party ratings. In its 2016 Endpoint Protection Platform Magic Quadrant ranking, Gartner named Microsoft as a "niche" player, saying it is a "reasonable solution" for those already invested in the Windows ecosystem but still relies heavily on signatures, making test results "very low," and lacks other security capabilities.
The executive said it is important for solution providers to understand what is running on their customers' environments and how changes by Microsoft around security impact those offerings.
"You have to understand what your business runs on, the technology it runs on and how it's impacted. Everyone has their whole lives on the platform, but they dont understand the platform from a security and an update perspective," the executive said.
Shenzhen, China, has a new state-of-the-art cruise port as Prince Bay was inaugurated into service as the SuperStar Virgo sailed from the port on Nov. 12.
The facility is a key component of the Shekou Cruise Centre (SCC), a comprehensive transportation hub with air, land, air and rail. Shenzhen is Chinas fourth largest city by GDP and is located strategically in the Pearl River Delta near Hong Kong, Macau and Guangdong.
About 200 people attended the opening ceremony, including management from Genting Hong Kong and Carnival Corporation.
The development is located in Shenzhens Shekou Industrial Zone which is owned by China Merchant Shekou Industrial Zone Holdings (CMSK). The SCC development also includes museums, hotels, commercial offices and residential spaces.
Ang Moo Lim, president of Star Cruises, told Cruise Industry News that the SuperStar Virgo would sail from the port offering both three- and six-day cruises every Friday and Sunday, respectively, through the end of 2016.
But, since its a new port, we will be adding different length cruises in 2017, said Lim, adding pricing would be similar to sailings from Hong Kong and Nansha.
An agreement between Genting Hong Kong and CMSK not only calls for the two to partner in the homeport operation at Prince Bay, but also explore recruitment, supply chain and more.
Lei Gong, vice president, CMSK, said that was the time was right to development Shenzhen into a state-of-the-art cruise port. CMSK also has investments in cruise ports in Tianjin, Qingdao, Shanghai and Xiamen, essentially covering 90 percent of the local cruise market.
The model in Shenzhen, he said, combining various service sectors and real estate development, will become the standard for other areas.
Among other stated plans to invest in their own cruise brand and own cruise ships, Gong declined to comment, but did say their intention was to extend the value chain.
Fincantieri has reported net income of 7 million euro on revenues of 3.2 billion euro for the nine-month period ended Sept. 30, 2016, compared to a net loss of 195 million euro on revenues of 3.0 billion euro for the same period last year.
From its various business segments, Fincantieri also reported that its shipbuilding division contributed approximately 2.4 billion euro in revenue of which 1.5 billion came from cruise ships and the balance from naval vessels.
The offshore segment generated 732 million euro in revenue, and equipment, systems and services, 193 million euro.
The shipbuilding group did not break out net income from each segment, but did say that shipbuilding contributed 138 million euro EBITDA out of a total EBITDA of 185 million euro for the nine months. Offshore contributed 37 million euro and equipment, systems and services, 32 million euro, while so-called other activities had a 22 million euro negative impact on EBITDA.
The company has a total order backlog of 21.8 billion euro, covering approximately 5.2 years of work with 106 ships. Among other developments during the period, Fincantieri and the labor unions agreed on what it called incentive tools linked to individual performance and company results, which are expected to lead to greater efficiency.
In July, Fincantieri signed an agreement with China State Shipbuilding Corporation for a joint venture to develop and sell cruise ships for the Chinese and Asian markets. These vessels will be built in China. Subsequently, in September, Fincantieri signed a non-binding agreement with Carnival Corporation and CIC Capital Corporation for the construction of the first new cruise ships to be built in China for the Chinese market.
Fincantieri delivered five cruise ships during the first nine months of the year (and subsequently one more), and has five under construction, scheduled for delivery in 2018, four for 2019 and 2020, and has two more for delivery beyond 2020.
A U.K. official has ordered the extradition of a British man to the U.S. on charges of hacking government computers belonging to NASA and the Department of Defense.
Lauri Love, a 31-year-old hacktivist, has been fighting his extradition, but on Monday, U.K. Home Secretary Amber Rudd signed the order.
"Mr. Love has been charged with various computer hacking offences which included targeting U.S. military and federal government agencies," the U.K. Home Office said in a statement.
The U.S. originally charged Love in 2013 for allegedly stealing confidential data from thousands of government employees, including Social Security numbers and credit card details. U.S. investigators accuse Love and his accomplices of causing millions of dollars in damages.
Loves defenders, however, claim he breached the U.S. government computers to protest the suicide of activist Aaron Swartz, who at the time was also facing hacking-related charges.
Love fears that he wont face a fair trial in the U.S. "I would say my prospects of due process in America are essentially zero," Love has previously said.
But this September, a U.K. judge paved the way for Loves extradition to the U.S., despite worries that he may attempt to commit suicide. Love has been diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome and has a history of depression.
Although the U.K. home secretary had the final decision on the matter, she found no conditions to bar Love from being sent to the U.S.
Three U.S. courts have filed extradition requests for Love. If convicted, he could face a maximum sentence of 99 years. However, his legal team has previously said that Love will seek permission to appeal his extradition to the U.K.'s High Court.
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Despite the appearance around the state's larger cities, Connecticut's overall safety is rather high according to a new report.
Connecticut was named one of the safest states in America in a new report from 24/7 Wall St. Other regional states led the list as well, including Vermont ranking the safest state, Maine ranking as the second safest state, and Virginia ranking third.
Among the most dangerous states were Alaska, Nevada, and New Mexico.
The report collected data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation's 2015 Uniform Crime Report Program to determine the nation's safest and most dangerous states. Specifically, the report looked at violent crime and murder rates from 2011 to 2015.
Check out the slideshow above to see how Connecticut compares to the nation's safest havens. To read 24/7 Wall St.'s full report, click here.
Despite metropolitan figures, the report said a correlation between financial prosperity and crime may have attributed to Connecticut's low crime rate.
"Just 10.5 percent of people live in poverty, the sixth lowest rate, and the typical household in Connecticut earns $71,346 annually...," the report noted. "Connecticut is one of the many states and communities where financial prosperity has likely contributed somewhat to the relatively low violent crime levels."
The reported noted that Bridgeport, Conn., holds one of the higher violent crime rates in the state, which numbers, "well over 600 incidents per 100,000 people."
Yet, larger cities still played a part in violent crime rates.
Related: Connecticut's drunkest city has been named
In Alaska, the violent crime rate in Anchorage was the state's largest contributing factor.
"High violent crime levels across Alaska are driven by the prevalence of criminal activity in Anchorage, one of the state's major cities," the report state. "More than 1,000 crimes were reported per 100,000 people in the city last year, dwarfing the national violent crime rate of 383 incidents per 100,000 Americans and higher than the vast majority of U.S. cities."
Nevada's high ranking among the most dangerous states was also attributed to, "criminal activity in Nevada's more densely clustered areas," or Las Vegas and Reno.
Perhaps most importantly, the report emphasized that a lack of economic and employment opportunities largely contributes to higher violent crime rates. The report said communities and states with lower crime rates typically have better economic and social conditions.
William Chris Vineyards
One of the producers that Mike Wilson visited was William Chris Vineyards, located on U.S. 290 in Hye, in what's considered the heart of Texas Wine Country. It's an estate winery, meaning that all the wines use grapes grown in the William Chris vineyards.
(Submitted)
Mike Wilson, one of the partners of The Vineyard and Brewery at Hershey, said he saw for himself what a thriving wine industry can do for a region after attending the Wine Marketing & Tourism Conference last week.
'Merlot Mike' and 'Miss Merlot' dance up a storm in Luckenbach, Texas, made famous by Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings. 'Wineries brought tons of wines there and they were paired with brisket and such (the star of the show was a great rose was Becker Vineyards,' Mike said.
"It's interesting," he said of his impressions of Texas Hill Country, where the conference ran from Tuesday until Thursday, including a panel on social media that included Wilson. "You can tell it's emerging wine country because it was nothing but peaches and antiques before . . . and now all these wineries are popping up, and it's really making a splash in terms of redefining things for them. . . . It really does make a huge impact, and not just tourism."
Wilson said he was told that the area around Fredericksburg, where the conference was held, has seen the explosion of new wineries drive up the price of the housing market. "It has really made a big impact in that town," he said.
Fredericksburg is the seat of Gillespie County, located a bit south of what would be considered the center of the huge state. That area, like other parts of Texas, is seeing rapid growth in an industry that now has a a $1.9 billion annual impact on the economy, a third of which is due to wine tourism, according to the Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association. That's being fueled by more than 3,500 acres of vines and around 350 bonded wineries.
Wilson said he and his fiancee, who joined him on the trip, had a chance to sample a number of Texas wines, including "some great Tempranillos, some pretty cool red blends. We even had a Montepulciano," he added, talking on the phone from San Antonio on Friday. "There's some interesting stuff going on down here that I would never have thought of." One of his favorites, he said, was the William Chris Winery in Hye, near the site of the conference.
His panel, called Social Media Marketing and Online Advertising for Wine Tourism, was scheduled for three hours on the first morning of the conference, and more than 100 people attended. Working with colleague Robyn Scott, they spent time talking
The conference in Fredericksburg, Texas, took place from Nov. 8-10.
about social media outlets and which ones tend to work for the wine industry and which don't, on how to focus your time and not waste resources, and how to build a brand and increase sales.
"I just went over things like don't hand over the keys of your brand to someone who's young, just because you assume they understand social media," he said, "and that got into the whole experience and having one voice for your brand and making sure you engage with customers."
He said the best workshop he attended was put on by someone from the New York Times, who focused on the rapidly increasing value of mobile. "I guess my takeaway from that is that mobile is the new social media, even thought people are still catching up on social media," he said.
Wilson said he already has been invited to speak at next year's conference, at the Hyatt Vineyard Creek in California's Sonoma County. The 10th annual event, which used to be called the Wine Tourism Conference, will take place from Nov. 6-8, 2017.
As for what he'll bring back to The Vineyard and Brewery at Hershey in Dauphin County's Londonderry Township, which uses social media as well as any winery in the region, he quoted a lesson that he said has served their business well since in opened in the summer of 2012.
"Just to never lose sight of the fact that the most important thing is the customer experience," he said. "Always reinforcing that is good. You never want to become complacent in your efforts, and just keeping your eyes and ears open for things that people seem to do well and never losing sight of who you are and your brand. Complacency is our enemy."
ATLANTIC SKIES: Stellar asterisms eye-catching pretenders to the constellation throne and just part of the bigger picture
Most everyone, or at least most amateur astronomers, are familiar with the constellations in the night sky to some degree. Many, however, may not be familiar with the numerous asterisms in the night sky. What is the difference between a constellation ...
Atelka, a business process outsourcing (BPO) provider in Canada, uses a force of nearly 3,000 employees to offer customer contact support for its enterprise clients throughout four Canadian provinces, including Atelkas home of Quebec.
TeleTech, a global service provider that also focuses on BPO, announced this past week that it has closed its acquisition of Atelka and added that companys capabilities to its own Customer Management Services division. Kenneth Tuchman, the CEO of TeleTech, commented in his companys announcement about how this joining of forces allows TeleTech to better serve customers in several regions of Canada.
Our acquisition of Atelka is part of our strategy to bring our holistic customer engagement platform to key geographies, Tuchman began.
With Atelkas strong management team, outstanding employees, and several long-standing client relationships, we now have a solid foundation for growth in the important Canadian market, he continued.
Likewise, Atelka CEO Tom Loberto said this acquisition is beneficial for his company because of the resources it will receive from his new parent company. Atelka will now have access to the full TeleTech line of services, which Loberto indicated will make a welcome addition to those Atelka already serves its large number of corporate clients.
Though Atelka has not made TMC news much in the past, it has seen its share of notable partnerships that made headlines. On the other hand, one can see TeleTech as a dominant figure in the BPO market through its own strategic partnerships and industry awards. This year alone, TeleTech has also seen its placement as a Leader in a Gartner Magic Quadrant study and the dispersion of its own study that tried to capture moments of wow to link positive customer experiences with company loyalty.
This latest pairing seems to speak volumes about TeleTechs intentions to solidify its own position as a global service provider. Meanwhile, it also shows how a smaller company, Atelka, can offer value to a larger competitor by being a strong player in its own regional market.
Edited by Alicia Young
The entire seven-member school board of a small Virginia city has resigned.
The resignations came last week, after the city council in Franklin, Va., asked board members to submit their resignations over incompetence in the performance of their duties, according to the Virginia Pilot.
The issue relates to the school boards financial management, the paper reported.
The city council gave the school district an additional $343,000 in the 2014-15 school year to help financially. But it appears that the school board didnt need the money as it had a $151,000 surplus at the time, not counting the money the council gave it, the paper said.
The district also ended the last fiscal year with an estimated $481,000 deficit.
On Nov. 1, the city council passed a resolution calling for all the board members to resign, and to do so by Nov. 7.
The school board disagreed with the city council. Before handing in their resignations, however, they voted on Nov. 4 to fire superintendent Willie Bell, without cause , the local ABC affiliate reported.
An interim superintendent Kelvin Edwards has taken over.
In a Nov. 4 letter announcing the change in district leadership, Edwards said the deficit in question had not been incurred by wrongful or willful misconduct by any member of this administration.
As always we are continuously working on our practices and procedures to be fiscally sound, he wrote.
That same letter expressed disappointment with the city councils request for the resignations, and sought a joint meeting between the two parties.
Edwards also sought to reassure the community in a Nov. 9 note posted on the school districts website.
With the resignation of the entire School Board, we are facing a situation that is unprecedented in the Commonwealth of Virginia, Edwards wrote. The challenge now before city and school leadership is the need to provide clarity and certainty around the governance of the school division.
The Virginia Pilot reported that the city hopes to appoint the new school board members in time for the school boards Dec. 15 meeting.
The district has an estimated 1,300 students, with one elementary, middle, and high school.
Democrats saw a surge in new voters in Pennsylvania as midterms near
What happens now that Georgia voters have resoundingly rejected Governor Nathan Deals school takeover plan?
Deal is not giving up, reports the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
According to the paper, the governor plans to continue to push for improvements in chronically low-performing schools, though he didnt say what steps he plans to take.
Deals signature education proposal to create a statewide district that would take over low-performing schools was defeated by a vote of 60-40 on Tuesday , according to unofficial results from the Georgia secretary of states office. The ballot question would have changed the Georgia constitution to allow officials to create the district.
It was not my failure, the paper quoted Deal as saying about the ballot questions defeat. The failure of this passing is impacting on those 68,000 children who are still stuck in chronically failing schools. Were going to see what the local jurisdictions are willing to do about that. The ball is totally in their court right now.
The onus will now be on school districts, many of which adopted resolutions opposing the proposed statewide district, to show they can improve those chronically low-performing schools, Deal said.
The new district would have consisted of schools that received F grades for three years under the states school accountability system.
A superintendent, appointed by the governor, would have been in charge of selecting the schools to include in the district. The law allowed the superintendent to pick up to 20 eligible schools annually.
The superintendent would have had the option to close schools, turn them into charters, or work with districts to improve them.
A coalition of political and education groupsincluding teachers unionsopposed the measure and spent about $5 million to defeat it, according to the AJC.
School districts and other opponents had railed against the possible loss of local control and tax dollars they said would have resulted from the creation of the new district.
The governor and his allies had argued that the proposal, which was based on Tennessees Achievement District and Louisianas Recovery School District, was an effort to provide better school options for about 68,000 students.
UPDATED
By Denisa Superville and Madeline Will
Thousands of students have walked out of classes since Wednesday to protest the election of Donald Trump as the next president of the United States.
Students from Omaha Central High School and Northwest High School in Omaha, Neb., were among the latest on Friday morning, when students at the two schools walked out in protest, the Omaha World-Herald reported.
Central students singing national anthem pic.twitter.com/VnvKchOIH1 -- Erin Duffy (@eduff88) November 11, 2016
On Thursday, thousands of students from 16 Los Angeles, Calif., high schools staged walkouts , the Los Angeles Times reported. To date, students have walked out in Seattle; Des Moines, Iowa; and Phoenix, Ariz.
We just wanted to show that we are completely in opposition to everything that Donald Trump stands for, Maddy Peterson, a 17-year-old high school senior at Inderkum High School in Natomas Unified School District in Sacramento, who was among the group of students who walked out of class on Thursday, said in an interview with Education Week.
Peterson, who is white, and a few dozen other students chanted phrases like, Not my president, Love trumps hate, No justice, no peace, and Black lives matter during their protest.
Natomas Unified School District is one of the most diverse in the country, Peterson said, and most students were strongly against Trump. After the election, everyone was very scared and disheartened, she said.
We felt let down by not only the government, but also the voters, she said. It was jarring to know that so many people agreed with what [Trump] was saying. It was unfathomable to us.
Trump, the president-elect, who defeated Democrat Hillary Clinton on Tuesday, made comments during the campaign that singled out specific groups, including characterizing some Mexican immigrants as rapists and criminals and calling for a ban on Muslims entering the country.
Educators say some students, including immigrant students and students of color, are fearful that they would be targeted. Immigrant students came to school on Wednesday worried that they or their families would be deported. Muslim students, LGBT students, and students of color feared they would face harassment, some educators said.
Incidents of bullying and harassment of Muslim and minority students have been reported since the election.
Graffiti, including ""#whitesonly, Trump Train, and "#gobacktoafrica were found on a bathroom door in Maple Grove Senior High School in Maple Grove, Minn., the Minneapolis Star-Tribune reported.
The Granite School District in Utah was also investigating reports of harassment.
We are receiving a handful of reports that students are being harassed as a result of the election outcome. Not acceptable. Please report! -- Granite School Dist. (@GraniteSchools) November 9, 2016
No student in our schools should be made to feel unsafe or intimidated. Use the SafeUT app or report to administrators. -- Granite School Dist. (@GraniteSchools) November 9, 2016
In an interview with Fox 13 Salt Lake City, two sisters, Angelica and Aylin Gomez, who are students at Kearns High School in the Granite City School District, told the station that rude and negative comments were directed at Hispanic students the day after the election.
You need to get back to Mexico, one of the sisters told the station, describing comments they heard at school.
To tamp down on fears, district administrators, including in Boston and Albuquerque, N.M., have sent letters to their school communities.
This weeks presidential election has left some of our students and families feeling anxious and afraid, Albuquerque superintendent Raquel Reedy wrote. The emotionally charged rhetoric we all heard over the last several months was unfortunate and likely wont be forgotten any time soon.
Students at Omaha High School on Friday carried American, Mexican, and gay pride flags, and held signs with messages such as Love Trumps Hate, the Omaha World-Herald reported. They also chanted, not my president.
School administrators in Omaha allowed the students to protest, though they told the paper that the protest was not sanctioned by the district.
Most of us are 15, 16, 17 years old, Nick Koehler, a student, told the Omaha-Herald on Friday morning during the walkout. We feel like we dont have a say ... By doing this, students have a voice.
Brian May is not happy. Writing on his blog last week, the veteran Queen guitarist raged: Back in the insanity that is London. Was woken up by horrible noise of leaf-blowers. Went out to see an army of six men in orange jackets disturbing the peace with the awful noise of the blowers.
I marvelled at this, for various reasons. First, it is a miracle that May was woken by the noise of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelseas leaf-blowers. Most rock stars of his vintage May is 69 have long ago lost much of their hearing. Decades of performing at ear-shattering volume have seen to that. Their sleep would not be disturbed by a bomb going off outside their front door.
Which takes me to my second point of wonderment. Does Brian May ever stop to think how much the noise generated by his and other rock bands is a curse for millions of people who dont like it and from which they find it increasingly difficult to escape?
Does Brian May, pictured, ever consider the impact his music has on those who dislike it
Mr May took to his blog to complain about a group of workmen using leaf blowers. (File photo)
I am one of those millions, so this is personal. It is not, though, a criticism of those who do enjoy rock music. If they want to spend hundreds of pounds on a weekend in a muddy field being subjected to the stuff, having spent hours stuck in queues of traffic getting there, Ive no wish to stand in the way of their pleasure.
The trouble comes when their pleasure is the local residents pain in the ear drums. A few years ago a man called Leith Penny became my hero when he pulled the plug on a pop concert in Hyde Park. To be precise, Westminster Councils Mr Penny ordered the amplifiers to be switched off on the stroke of 10.30pm, while the performers were still belting it out to 80,000 fans.
Mr Penny pointed out that 10.30pm was when the organisers had agreed with the council to end the concert and that such licences are granted to protect residents in the area from noise late at night.
For this he was roundly abused by the fans as a killjoy. The then London mayor Boris Johnson joined in the criticism of Mr Penny. But when Radio 5 lives producers ran an instant phone-in about this alleged outrage, they did not get the calls they might have expected, denouncing it as the spiteful act of a town-hall jobsworth. Instead, they were inundated with calls from those who had suffered from the effects of living near the sites of rock concerts.
Some complained that the colossal noise from the events actually caused their houses to vibrate: so imagine what it did to the inside of their heads.
It is the constant, relentless percussive beat of rock music amplified to plane- taking-off levels which makes so many of us feel disoriented and even distressed.
This matter used to cause some dissent on family car journeys when my daughters were younger. They would want to hear pop, and certainly not the classical music that I preferred. The argument was generally settled when I would make the offer that they could impose their music (though I did not use that term) for an hour, if I were then allowed to subject them to Radio 3 for a similar period.
Their horror at that prospect meant they would usually agree to complete musical disarmament so there would be no radio on at all. I considered this a victory, not least because it could result in actual conversations on journeys.
Nowadays, people have headphones, with the courteous idea that other travellers should not have one persons musical taste (or lack of it) inflicted on them.
But my own experience as a regular train user is that many of those who listen to heavy rock music do so at such a level that anyone in the same carriage can hear the constant tsss, tsss, tsss of the percussion as it blasts its way through even the protective shield of the headphones. Last week, on such a journey, I became sufficiently irked by this that I asked the headphones-wearing man sitting opposite if he could, please, turn the volume down a bit. Oh, can you hear it? he asked, displaying the lip-reading skills which rock fans must surely find essential. Only all the time, I replied, with what I hoped came across as good humour.
Her Majesty chose to wear ear plugs when she was subjected to a rock concert at Buckingham Palace to mark her 60 years on the throne. No wonder she looked so content
Perhaps the answer is for those of us who are din-intolerant to wear ear plugs ourselves. But then we wouldnt be able to hear the things we need to, such as announcements by the guards.
Still, I note that this was the real Queens approach when Brian Mays group and others subjected her to a rock concert at Buckingham Palace to mark her 60 years on the throne. Her Majesty spent the entire event wearing ear plugs. No wonder she looked so content throughout.
The most abominable imposition of cacophony does not come in trains, however, but in shops, restaurants and even sporting events. The soundtracks that are belted out are still commonly referred to as Muzak. But Muzak was originally designed to be blandly inoffensive.
The US Army used rock music in Guantanamo Bay as a form of psychological warfare
Perhaps it is just that I have become even more of an old duffer as I close in on my 60th birthday; but it does seem that, increasingly, such canned music is of a sort and at a volume which makes it difficult even to think clearly. Probably this is deliberate, with the idea of confusing the consumer into making purchases without proper consideration.
But with me, it has the opposite effect. At a recent visit to the main London branch of Topshop in Oxford Street, the background blast was so pulverising, I fled immediately, rather than make the Christmas present purchases for my daughters that Id intended.
Am I oversensitive to noise? Perhaps; my pastime is chess, in which complete silence is mandatory. But dont forget that rock music is now recognised as a form of torture: it was played at deafening volume to extract confessions from al-Qaeda suspects at the U.S. Army detention centre at Guantanamo Bay.
Sergeant Mark Hadsell, of the 361st Psychological Operations Company, revealed: They cant take heavy metal. If you play it for 24 hours your brain starts to slide, your will is broken.
I dont think leaf-blowers would have had the same effect.
DONALD TRUMP: FROM BRUNETTE TO HAIR FORCE ONE It was only when studying the photographs of the younger Donald in many newspaper biographical spreads the day after he was elected that I noticed the truly deceptive thing about the Trump rug Acres of newsprint have been devoted to the hairstyle of the U.S. President-elect. Most of it has been concentrated on Donald Trumps comb-over which is certainly distinctive. Some of it ruminated on whether Trump was actually bald and why, if he wanted to disguise that fact, he chose such a bizarre way of doing it. In fact, all the hair you see is his own. It was only when studying the photographs of the younger Donald in many newspaper biographical spreads the day after he was elected that I noticed the truly deceptive thing about the Trump rug. Until about 2000, his hair was dark brown. He is or rather was a brunette. That year, however, he had it dyed to what can only be described as cigar-stained-teeth blond. Over the next decade or so, it then oscillated between various forms of rust-effect, pleasingly autumnal if you like that sort of thing. But by 2013 it returned to the weirdly unnatural yellow which we saw throughout his presidential campaign. This is perhaps a sign of how different our two nations are: a man whose hair is so obviously insincere could never be elected to the highest office in this country. Advertisement
In those parts of the U.S. where capital punishment is still on the statute book, reports of executions are never complete without the details of the last meal ordered by the condemned.
Last week, it was only the prospect of political death that faced both candidates for the U.S. Presidency. But I feel readers should know what each of them chose on Tuesday night as their final meal while waiting for the voters to decide their fate.
You could call it the Trump Effect. Whatever anyone may think about the maverick billionaire (whose fitness for the US presidency seems highly questionable, to put it mildly), his election has had at least one salutary influence on politicians at home and abroad.
More even than the Brexit vote or the rise of populist parties throughout Europe, it has highlighted to a shocked liberal elite just how frustrated voters have become over the way their deepest concerns have been ignored.
Nowhere is this clearer than over mass immigration. For decades, mainstream politicians have dismissed as racist anyone who voiced legitimate worries about the effects of radical demographic change on jobs, wages, housing and public services.
The election of Donald Trump, pictured here with his family, has shown how frustrated voters have become over having their deepest concerns ignored by the political elite
Meanwhile, they sneered at tolerant patriots, accusing them of jingoism for expressing a love of country, British culture and traditions.
Indeed, convinced of their moral superiority, they sought to silence debate by attributing the lowest possible motives to anyone who disagreed with them.
Yet already there are signs that Trumps victory may be shaking them out of their complacency. Even Jeremy Corbyn, whose attitude to migration has been the more, the merrier, was muttering yesterday about understanding public concerns.
Meanwhile, Theresa May is to put her finger on the heart of the issue today when she says: People see their communities changing around them and dont remember giving their permission.
Is it too much to hope that politicians are waking up to the vital importance of consulting and listening to the people before they act in our name?
At last, a beads biopsy
In a significant victory for the Mails Ban the Beads campaign, the Chief Medical Officer is to launch an investigation into the effects on human health of plastic poison microbeads, which contaminate seafood on a dramatic scale.
This paper warmly welcomes the study. But how infinitely preferable it would have been to conduct it before, not after, manufacturers of washing powders and other products allowed hundreds of tons of these minuscule plastic particles to wash into our seas each year.
The Mail has campaigned against the use of micro beads which can contaminate seafood
For nine-and-a-half weeks after 15-year-old Arthur Heeler-Frood disappeared, Facebook stubbornly refused to help police track him down, refusing to reveal whom he contacted the night before he left home. Only now, after pressure from the Press, does the internet giant seem willing to cooperate. Isnt it truly breath-taking that a company which promotes a touchy-feely image could for so long put its commercial interest in clients confidentiality above the safety of a vulnerable minor and the tears of his anguished parents?
Days after a retired judge savaged Scotland Yard for giving credence to a suspected fantasists allegations of a VIP child abuse ring, it emerges that 21 officers and staff from Wiltshire Police are still investigating claims against Sir Ted Heath.
Two observations: 1) they appear to have unearthed not a scrap of evidence; and 2) the former prime minister died 11 years ago.
Have they really no more pressing claims on their time?
Keith Vaz, pictured, was able to claim 81.90 for a return train trip to London from his constituency on a day when he was 1,400 miles away on a visit to Tunisia
Adding to the indictment against Labours Keith Vaz, the Leicester MP is said to have charged taxpayers 81.90 for a return trip from London to his constituency on a day when he was 1,400 miles away in Tunisia!
Yesterday, a former solicitor general called on Mr Vaz to stand down from the Commons justice committee while police investigate his involvement with drug-taking rent boys.
Embattled Metropolitan Police commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe is due to meet former Tory MP Harvey Proctor tomorrow.
Proctor was wrongly accused of child rape and murder in the Westminster VIP paedophile ring inquiry, and Hogan-Howe is finally making a long overdue apology in person.
After 15 police officers raided his cottage last year on the Duke of Rutlands estate at Belvoir Castle in Leicestershire, Proctor lost his position as the dukes private secretary as well as the grace-and-favour cottage that went with it.
Former Tory MP Harvey Proctor was wrongly accused of child rape and murder in the Westminster VIP paedophile ring inquiry
Embattled Metropolitan Police commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe is due to meet former Tory MP Harvey Proctor
The officers only evidence was spurious claims from a witness called Nick, who has been exposed as a fantasist and is now facing calls to be prosecuted. I lost my job and my home, Proctor told me yesterday. It has been devastating, and unrepairable. I have received death threats and am destitute. I have no money.
He has been relying on friends, first staying with some in Spain and now living with others in Britain. An appeal has been set up on a JustGiving page by his friends in the Tory Party.
If there were any justice, the Metropolitan Police ought to be paying compensation for the trauma they have put this innocent man through. Hopefully, they will. But until they do, its up to others to help Harvey through some very difficult months, reads a statement on the appeals page.
Hogan-Howe, who is quitting next February, seven months early, should hang his head in shame.
In Tony Blairs government there was a plan for a new team of super bobbies who would be offered cash incentives to stay on the beat rather than be promoted into desk jobs.
Nothing came of it, of course, but that never harmed Justin Russell, who was one of the political advisers at the Home Office which dreamed up the idea.
ED'S FOX-TROT COALITION Twinkle toes Ed Balls, whos made it to the next round of Strictly Come Dancing, says his success is down to a cross-party alliance. Im supported by Gordon Brown, Ed Miliband, Theresa May and George Osborne. That is one hell of a coalition of support. Comrade Corbyn, eat your heart out. Advertisement
Russell is now Director General, Prisoner and Offender Management Policy at the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) on a six-figure salary. Hes working for Justice Secretary Liz Truss, who is seen as way out of her depth by many MPs.
With the ministrys blessing, Russell is advertising for 30 policy officers yes 30! on salaries of up to 40,000, plus the usual gold-plated civil service pension and perks.
The recruitment spree will cost around 2 million a year at a time when prison-staff shortages have been blamed for riots at Bedford prison and an inmate was murdered in Pentonville, from where two convicts also escaped.
Lord Rose, the former M&S chief who headed the pro-Remain Britain Stronger in Europe during the referendum, says businessmen should stick to business and politicians to politics. They certainly should in his case.
Rose was so useless in his campaign that he all but disappeared from public view as referendum day neared.
And on the rare occasions he did campaign, he blundered spectacularly, getting the name of his outfit wrong four times in one TV interview.
Trump card
Labours first female acting leader Margaret Beckett, who temporarily replaced John Smith when he died in 1994, said on TV: I feel horrified and terrified by Trump victory. The horror is for today and the terror for tomorrow.
Many Labour MPs feel the same over Jeremy Corbyns election as Labour leader. And guess who nominated him for the leadership? Yes, Margaret Beckett.
No small talk, then, Mrs T?
Legendary broadcaster Sir Jimmy Young, who died last week aged 95, was often referred to as Mrs Thatchers favourite interviewer.
They crossed swords 14 times on his Radio 2 show.
Legendary broadcaster Sir Jimmy Young, who died last week aged 95, was often referred to as Mrs Thatchers favourite interviewer
But reports of their friendship always bemused the great man who was nevertheless impressed by her ability to multi-task: She used to sweep in with her papers and talk animatedly when we were on air, he explained.
Gwen Ifill, a trailblazing journalist who was one-half of the first all-female team to anchor a network TV news show, died on Monday after a battle with cancer. She was 61.
As the co-anchor, with Judy Woodruff, of the PBS NewsHour, Ifill often introduced segments on education produced by Education Week Video, the shows main partner on education news for the least year and a half.
Gwen was a standard bearer for courage, fairness and integrity in an industry going through seismic change, Sara Just, the executive producer of PBS NewsHour and senior vice president of WETA, the public TV station in the Washington market that co-produces it, said in a statement. She was a mentor to so many across the industry, and her professionalism was respected across the political spectrum. She was a journalists journalist and set an example for all around her.
Ifill, a New York City native, got her start on newspapers such as the Baltimore Evening Sun and the Boston Herald American, before moving on to The Washington Post and The New York Times, where she was a White House correspondent. She was a congressional and political correspondent for NBC News before moving to PBS, where she was also the moderator of Washington Week.
Speaking at a news conference this afternoon in advance of a multi-continent foreign trip, President Barack Obama praised Ifill as an extraordinary journalist.
I always appreciated Gwens reporting, even when I was at the receiving end of one of her tough and thorough interviews, Obama said. Whether she reported from the convention floor or the field, whether she sat at the debate moderators table or at the anchors desk, she not only informed todays citizens but she also inspired tomorrows journalists.
She was an especially powerful role model for young women and girls who admired her integrity, her tenacity, and her intellect, the president said.
Photo: Gwen Ifill, co-anchor of the NewsHour on the PBS television network, attends an awards ceremony last year in New York. (Andy Kropa/Invision/AP-File)
Katy Finn is like any other woman her age: she loves spending times with her friends, fussing over her dog Poppy and going for long walks.
But Katy, 21, spent years battling mental health problems before finally managing to overcome the demons that left her starving and huddled on her bathroom floor, her limbs covered with self-inflicted wounds.
Here the writer and charity campaigner reveals how OCD and anorexia took over her life - and how she managed to wrestle herself out of the grasp of serious mental illness.
Then... Katy Finn, 21, a writer and charity campaigner from Buckinghamshire, is pictured here while she was battling anorexia
And now... After years of suffering Katy overcame her illnesses, and now works with an OCD charity to help raise awareness of her condition
2012 was going to be my year, I thought as I lay in bed on New Years Eve. I couldnt wait to go back to school and tell everyone about the amazing party Id been to. I wanted to see the look on their faces when I told them how Chris had kissed me at midnight or how Angela and I had danced the night away.
Finally theyd see that I was popular, sexy, adventurous and most importantly, one of them. What did it matter if none of it was real? All that mattered was how it looked and Id settle for nothing less than perfect. But perfection doesnt exist and it didnt take long until the cracks in my story brought my whole life crashing down.
A person with OCD exercises control in order to feel safe. Some sufferers do this by turning lights on and off, others check theyve locked doors and yet others tap objects to cancel out unwanted thoughts. Ive had OCD since I was seven, but my control was about people.
It didnt start out that way. It began with getting dressed. Id put one sock on then take it off. Id turn it inside out and put it back on again. I had hundreds of little rituals that grew ever more time consuming. It was the only way I could feel safe.
However, the older I got, the more elements of life I couldnt control, like my weight, whether people liked me or what my friends said about me. When I tasted humiliation for the first time I decided I never wanted to experience it again. The world was dangerous and unpredictable, so I opted out of reality and created a world I could control.
Katy at her most ill time. She ceated fake Facebook profiles for an imaginary boyfriend and best friend so her friends would accept her - but they found out the truth
Rather than make myself vulnerable to rejection, I invented my own social group. That way when I wasnt invited to a party or spent the weekend alone I could tell people Id been with my other, better friends. So I added fake contacts to my phone and told people about the weekends I spent drink and partying with my gang. In reality I spent every evening carrying out an obsessive exercise regime and praying Id be ill the next day so I didnt have to go to school.
For a while it was okay. I never confused reality and fantasy. I knew I was telling lies - I just didnt care. But I was addicted to control and, like any addict, I craved more.
That was when I set up Facebook pages. The first and most detailed account was for Angela Price, my feisty best friend who always had my back. I spent hours scouring Google to find the perfect image to pass as a profile picture. I settled on a silhouette of a dancer. It couldve been anyone but the important thing was, no one could prove it wasnt Angela.
Katy just after she dropped out of school. She sank into a deep depression and turned her obsessive energy inwards as she had no-one else to control
Chris, my fictional boyfriend, who made the sting of any past rejection slightly less painful, didnt do Facebook. He was too cool for that. In reality I knew I couldnt find another picture without raising suspicion. I had a cover for everything and I knew the backstories of all my characters so Id never get tripped up. In the end it didnt matter. I was found out.
I stumbled across a group chat between my friends. The heading read: Reasons Angela and Chris Arent Real. They went on to list the flaws in my story and with each bullet point I felt the knot in my stomach tighten. I had been caught. Yet still I couldnt stop.
I lied to cover my lies until even I couldnt remember what was real. Eventually I couldnt do it anymore. My plan had failed and there was no going back. I couldnt undo the lies Id told. So I did what any scared person does when theyre confronted with danger, I ran.
Katy at school. Rather than make herself vulnerable to rejection from other people, she invented her own social group. That way when she wasnt invited to a party or spent the weekend alone she could tell people she'd been with her other, better friends
Aged 16, I dropped out of school and sank into a deep depression. With no one left to control I turned my obsessive energy inwards. Clearly I was the problem so I set about fixing myself.
I believed I was fundamentally wrong and had to make myself better. To me, that meant cleaning out the filth inside me that the rest of the world found so repulsive. I showered extensively every day, scrubbing my body until it bled and massaging in soap until my skin was a broken mess. It wasnt enough. I wanted to feel completely hollow so food had to go. It contaminated me and if I wanted to be loved I had to stop eating it.
I spent the next four years trying to make myself perfect so when I re-emerged I wouldnt be rejected again. But I was never thin enough or clean enough so I didnt emerge. I stayed in the house only getting out of bed to exercise, self-harm and clean obsessively.
Katy at her lowest weight. At that point she didn't leave the house and only got out of bed to exercise, self-harm and clean obsessively
Katy while she was in treatment. She was diagnosed with severe OCD, which had caused anorexia and a multitude of other problems
Then I hit rock bottom. I was curled up in the corner of the bathroom, two stone underweight with slash marks up my arm. I was unable to move because the floor was contaminated. I couldnt carry on like this and, not for the first time, I seriously considered ending my life. After two hours, a thought struck me, you need help. Somehow, I stood up, unlocked the door and went to find that help.
My GP referred me to an eating disorder service. I was marked as high priority and within a month I began treatment. I was diagnosed with severe OCD, which had caused anorexia and a multitude of other problems.
Katy a month before she left school. She left because she realised that none of her friends believed her stories about her fake boyfriend and friends, after discovering a group chat titled Reasons Angela and Chris Arent Real
Now aged 21 Im a different person. I went from being reclusive to filming for television shows. I started driving lessons, made new friends and began working with OCD Action. I am living the life of a normal girl in her twenties. I see now that my OCD, far from keeping me safe, kept me isolated and trapped.
Life would have been very different if Id got help sooner. I never knew I had OCD even though it was destroying my life. Yet Im one of the lucky ones. I had a supportive family and doctors who never gave up on me.
When I went in for my hair appointment with Johnny Ramirez and Anh Co Tran on a recent Saturday, I knew I was in for a long day.
The sought after Beverly Hills-based duo behind Ramirez Tran Salon (Johnny colors and Anh cuts) were visiting New York City for a few days, and I had been warned to block off the entire day for my cut and color.
7:30 AM: I arrived at their pop-up space in the Mark Garrison Salon on Manhattan's Upper East Side and was met by Johnny's first assistant (he had five that day), Andrea.
Lighten up! When Dailymail.com beauty director Lindsey Unterberger, 33, wanted to take her dark brown hair blonde, she went to Beverly Hills-based duo Anh Co Tran and Johnny Ramirez
She sat me down, assessed my hair (a dark brunette that was 100-percent virgin - meaning it hadn't been colored before) and asked me to pull up my 'goal' photo on my phone.
Going to see Johnny without first doing your homework is unthinkable. Even before you make an appointment, he requires you to fill out a questionnaire about your hair and what you're hoping to accomplish with color. Then, he asks everyone to scroll through his Instagram feed to find her 'goal' hair.
I showed up with 17 screengrabs of color he had done that I liked. Andrea helped me narrow it down to two to show Johnny. It would, however, be another four hours before I met the man himself.
Hair-spo: Lindsey showed Johnny these two photos from his Instagram feed to use as inspiration, but Johnny was concerned that her haircut was too different for it to work
Next, Anh's first assistant (he only brought three), Ramon, stopped by to chat about my cut. I didn't want anything drastic, just some weight off the ends and a few layers to show off the color.
8:32 AM: Anh likes to cut hair dry, so his team blow-dried my frizzy mane until it was straight but not flat. 'I want to see how your hair naturally falls,' Anh said of his technique. 'I'm working with your cowlicks. I'm working with your hairline. I'm working with all the problematic things you feel about your hair.'
As for why he doesn't flat-iron the hair like some dry-cutting stylists, Anh said that when you flat-iron the hair, 'you're manipulating the texture of the hair and you're making it too flat. When it's too flat, it doesn't have the movement in it.'
He finished my cut in a record 16 minutes and said he'd see me again in another five or six hours. Again, I asked what could possibly take that long. 'You'll see,' was all he said.
Snip, snip: Before her color began, Lindsey sat down with Anh for a quick cut that he said would give her hair movement and show off her soon-to-be highlights
You could've foiled me: To lighten Lindsey's base color, stylists first highlighted her hair using a traditional approach but took paper-thin sections
Minutes later, I was in a different chair and two women from Johnny's team were putting what looked like traditional highlights in my hair. 'This is just to lighten your base,' one of them told me. 'We make sure that the sections we take are paper, paper fine.'
HAIR TRANSFORMATION BY THE NUMBERS 175: Foils used 17: Number of times I switched chairs 1,000: Dollars spent* 10: People who touched my hair 786: Minutes at salon *Johnny and Anh provided their services at no cost, but the cut would have been $400 and the color $600 Advertisement
I waited another 20 minutes for the lightening agent to do its thing and was then taken back to the shampoo bowl where the back half of the 84 foils in my hair were removed and my strands rinsed. I was then escorted back to a styling chair where the remaining front foils were hit with the heat from a blow-dryer to make the color even. Back I went to the shampoo bowl where the rest of the foils were removed and I had my first wash of the day.
10:43 AM: A team of stylists then blow-dried my now-lighted hair. They tagged in and out like a perfectly choreographed dance routine, something I would come to find was essential to making sure all 15 clients of the day were taken care of.
When they had finished, I looked in the mirror and saw an insanely blonde, almost grey-haired woman looking back at me. It was not a good look. I was assured my final result would be nothing like it.
Round one: The result of Lindsey's first highlights was not what she was hoping for, but Johnny's team assured her the final look would be nothing like it
At this point, I entered a waiting game of musical chairs, moving one chair closer to Johnny's station each time he finished a client in front of me.
12:04 PM: Eventually, I met the colorist-in-chief.
I could see him sizing me up as he asked to see my goal photos again.
As he scrolled through him, he kept saying, 'this won't work; it's not your haircut'. It was at this moment that I realized what a true collaboration Anh and Johnny have. Like volleyball players, Anh sets up the hair during the cut, so Johnny can spike the ball with his color.
It's the kind of hair you can dress up or dress down, but it's still going to look good and it will last for a long time, too. -Johnny Ramirez
The pair have been working together for the better part of ten years and can pretty much communicate in hair, no words necessary.
'What Anh and I do is very old school,' Johnny said. 'The kind of hair he and I do, it's the kind of hair you can dress up or dress down, but it's still going to look good and it will last for a long time, too.'
The twosome have even trademarked a name for their aesthetic: lived in hair.
'OK, so if my goal photos won't work with my new cut, what should I do?' I asked Johnny.
'I think you just surrender. Surrender your hair to the process,' he told me. I took that to mean I should just trust him to do what he thought was best, so I agreed.
Living that highlight life: The key to Johnny's 'lived in color' is his ability to assess his client's skintone and eye color and then strategically place the foils for a beachy or sunkissed effect
While he began to gently tease sections of my hair and highlight them again, a process he called 'doing the tips', I quizzed him about what he was doing.
'I consider skintone, eye color and placement,' he explained of his work. 'I always look at the inside of the wrist to determine the person's skintone, where it doesn't get a lot of sun. When people talk with their hands, I can already see it right away.
'Yellow and pink don't complement each other,' he continued, 'so for those with pink undertones, you have to stay with cooler hair tones.'
When you have hazel eyes and neutral undertones, as I do, you have more options. 'You're not limited to just one thing. You can push the envelope for sure,' he said.
Lucky me! 'But is there anyone who won't look good with a lighter hair color?' I asked him.
Do I look hot right now? Teasing sections of hair in order to apply a transitional color is all part of the Ramirez process
'That's like saying, "Is there anyone out there who won't look good coming back from an amazing summer vacation somewhere?"' he answered. 'There is always something, maybe not the big punch, but something subtle - it's the difference between beachy and sunkissed. It's like going to Chanel. You may not want the whole outfit, but you'll find something. Maybe it's a scarf or necklace but there's something.'
But as little foil balls of highlights hung in my eyes, Johnny emphatically said that although everyone will look good with a version of his 'lived in hair' look, not everyone can have it.
If someone comes in with severely damaged hair and wants to go platinum, for instance, he'll try to talk them out of it, but if they're adamant, he'll send them away - even those clients who have waited years for an appointment or traveled incredibly long distances to see him.
'I'm not going to be the one that melts her hair,' he said.
This was not an empty threat. He was sending home a 'classic bleach and tone' as I got from his chair.
While I waited for the second round of color to lift, I ate the lunch I had ordered to the salon - common practice for Ramirez Tran clients.
1:58 PM: I was ushered back to the shampoo bowl where 75 foils were removed. 'This has to be almost over,' I thought to myself, sensing that climbing-the-walls feeling creep in.
It wasn't.
Round two: Lindsey thought she wanted an ashy blonde color, but once it was done, she realized she wanted something more caramel
I got yet another blow-dry and then a few of the color assistants teased small sections of my hair so they could apply a 'transition' color, so the highlights would blend seamlessly into my base color. I looked like a Chia Pet that got stuck in an electrical socket.
3:17 PM: Back at the shampoo bowl, someone (at this point I'd stopped keeping track of who) brushed the mats out of my hair and then rinsed and toned it.
I went back to a styling chair where the front pieces of my hair are blown dry (again), before being escorted back to Johnny's station for a color check. I wasn't thrilled at this point, but I was ready to throw in the towel if it meant getting the hell out of the salon.
4:49 PM: No such luck. Johnny didn't love it either, and he put another 16 foils in my hair.
The blow-dry, wait, foil removal, brush-out, rinse and tone process repeated.
Rinse and repeat: At 7 PM, Lindsey had been at the salon for nearly 12 hours and her scalp was beginning to hurt
My scalp felt like it was going to disintegrate, as I sat down for blow-dry number God only knows.
6:22 PM: I had been at the salon for 11 hours and I was still not happy with the result. My hair look too ashy, which I thought I wanted but didn't actually like when I saw it on me.
Johnny's assistant Andrea agreed. She darkened my base and used something known as 'Lava' to make the blonde pieces more caramel.
Forty minutes later, Andrea was happy with the color, Johnny was happy with the color, and most importantly, I was happy with the color.
But the day, which has now become night, is still not over.
Free at last! After 13+ hours in the salon, Lindsey finally saw the 'lived in' color of her dreams
Turn around: Anh alternated waving techniques to give Lindsey his signature loose waves
No follow-up needed: Johnny told Lindsey her color would last for seven months to a year, making the time she put in at the salon well worth it
7:26 PM: Remember when Anh told me in the morning that he'd see me again before I left? True story.
Ramon blow-dried my hair and Anh came back over to inspect it. He made a few snips to tweak the haircut to better suit my highlights.
The last step in the insane process was the signature Anh 'lived in' waves. He used a combination of waving techniques (see video below) to get perfectly placed bends that showed off the artistry of both the cut and the color.
8:36 PM: I left the salon more than 13 hours from the time I had arrived.
New research has backed up what we already know to be true that there is a big discrepancy between our real age and the age we feel: what scientists term our subjective age.
According to the findings, this gap between reality and fantasy is a whopping 13 years.
And those who feel more youthful tend to live longer. Here, six writers tell us what age they are in their heads...
New research has backed up what we already know to be true that there is a big discrepancy between our real age and the age we feel: what scientists term our subjective age
I'M 68, BUT INTEND TO STAY 35 IN MY HEAD!
As a fashion PR supremo, Lynne Franks inspired the character of Edina Monsoon in sitcom Absolutely Fabulous
LYNNE FRANKS
As a fashion PR supremo, Lynne Franks inspired the character of Edina Monsoon in sitcom Absolutely Fabulous and is now a successful businesswoman, author and authority on womens empowerment.
She has two children, six grandchildren and a new relationship.
For the past 20 or 30 years, Ive stubbornly considered myself to be around 35 years old. Those mid-30s were a good age because my whole life was ahead of me even if I didnt appreciate it at the time yet I still had sufficient life experiences to give me a modicum of wisdom.
So its not really surprising that aged 35 in my head I still rush into huge life changes without too much regard for the consequences.
Earlier this year, I started living with a new partner after only knowing him for nine days (were still together, fortunately). We have a new home in Somerset, an area I had only experienced through visits to the Glastonbury Festival and didnt know at all. Im planning several new businesses, as well as writing a new book.
I dont believe Im the only baby boomer whose life still includes going to music festivals and travelling to exotic islands for holidays.
Those of us approaching the big 70 who are fortunate enough to have good health (and most of our own teeth) may not be quite the ravers we were in the Seventies and Eighties, but we are still inspired by the music, fashion and art that came of age at the same time we did.
If Mick Jagger can still prance around the stage at 73, then why cant I boogie on down when I feel like it? I may not want to be a new parent, like Mick or Ronnie Wood, but dancing around the kitchen table with my grandchildren is still a world away from my own mothers grandmotherly style.
I admit my body hasnt quite kept up with my youthful emotions and ideas. I do have increasing aches and pains, and weight in places I didnt know weight could live.
Despite this, I intend to stay 35 in my head until my body finally gives out and I can no longer pretend to myself that the vital, energetic, fun, younger me is anything but a memory.
AT 74, I NOW REALISE 60 WAS MY PRIME
SUSAN HILL
Susan Hills novella The Woman In Black has been running in the West End for 27 years and has been made into a hit film, too, starring Daniel Radcliffe. Hill is married, with two daughters.
What does it mean, to feel ones age? Intermittently achy joints and longing to be in bed by 9pm? Then I am definitely 74.
But I can still touch my toes, stand on one leg for ages and recite the alphabet backwards. I have written three books in the past year, so mentally, I am surely still in my 50s.
Susan Hills novella The Woman In Black has been running in the West End for 27 years and has been made into a hit film, too, starring Daniel Radcliffe
The age one feels and would like to remain has nothing to do with the life events of the time. Some hard things happened in my 40s, I was near death on several occasions, but I much preferred them to my 30s.
I loved my children dearly as children, but I actually prefer them now they are young women, which means the best of life began when I was 60.
Things began to look up. I felt calmer. I accepted things. I was ambitious, but no longer competitive not that I ever was much, especially as a writer. Art is not a competition.
After 60, I started eating well and never counting a calorie. It shows, of course. I dont care a jot.
I also stopped hating my face and body, which is ironic because, back when I did hate it, I was far better looking, not to mention slimmer, than I am now.
Work was important but when a writer has children, the books have to fit round school runs and homework assistance. Come 60, I could focus on writing. It was the age when ideas began to multiply and that hasnt stopped. At 60, I realised it didnt matter what anyone thought or said about me. I enjoyed having more time to myself. I could do anything. I bred Border Terriers, did a Masters in theology.
It was the start of a rich, fruitful, calm phase of life. Sixty it is.
Susans new collection, The Travelling Bag and Other Ghostly Stories, is published by Profile.
I FEEL LIKE IM HALF MY 68 YEARS
DEBORAH MOGGACH
Deborah Moggachs novel These Foolish Things was the inspiration for The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel films, starring Dames Judi Dench and Maggie Smith
Deborah Moggachs novel These Foolish Things was the inspiration for The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel films, starring Dames Judi Dench and Maggie Smith. Moggach is married to her third husband and has a son and daughter.
When I was little, I thought 34 was my ideal age. At 34, I would know the secrets of being a woman; I would be a proper grown-up with a hairstyle and painted nails.
Then 34 arrived and I didnt feel grown-up at all and my hair was still a mess but I was utterly happy. It felt the perfect age and my children were the perfect ages: five and six. I had experience under my belt and yet anything seemed possible.
And though Ive been happy since then Im basically a happy person 34 is where Ive stuck. This can be embarrassing. My children are now 39 and 40 and, when Im with their friends, Ill join in the conversation, presuming Im one of them, until theres a pause and I realise what an idiot I look.
This partly stems from being a single parent. Partners have come and gone, but I basically brought up my son and daughter alone. This means that Ive regressed to their ages. A single mother is more a friend than a proper parent.
For better or worse, its a different relationship: youre chums in a way you cant be when youre that unit known as Mum and Dad.
So my age has always been fluid and its hard to believe Im 68, until I look in the mirror.
Then there has been the added complication of the men in my life. After my marriage, I fell in love with a man who was 18 years older than me.
Our first date was going to buy him an orthopaedic mattress. I loved his wisdom and his interesting past. But I lost track of my age.
Sometimes, when I was with him and he was moaning about his prostate, I felt young and sprightly. At other times, I felt I had speeded up to his more advanced age, commiserating with him and feeling elderly myself.
Then, after he died, I fell in love with a man who was 15 years younger than me. Weirdly enough, the same thing happened. I felt both younger and older than my years and could hardly remember what age I was supposed to be.
Now, Im married to somebody my own age and, at last, I have settled down to being 68.
This is very companionable. But the stubborn fact remains: emotionally, I still feel 34.
Deborahs most recent novel, Something To Hide, is published by Vintage.
IVE NOT AGED A JOT PAST 21, EVEN AT 66
JENNI MURRAY
Broadcaster and author Jenni Murray is best known for presenting BBC Radio 4s Womans Hour
Broadcaster and author Jenni Murray is best known for presenting BBC Radio 4s Womans Hour. She is married with two sons.
My actual age, according to my birth certificate, is 66 although it gives me a shock every time I say it.
At 66, my grandfather had retired, received his golden clock from the pit where hed worked all his life and, together with my grandmother, who wore only what she considered age appropriate, planned a quiet life with a sense of impending doom.
To me, retirement is a dirty word. I cant imagine how I would fill my life if I wasnt doing the work I love and I have no idea what age-appropriate fashion would be.
I wear leggings, tops and flip- flops or trainers, none of which would look out of place on the 20-year-olds I meet in the office.
There are times when I am painfully aware of the fact that I am no spring chicken. Its usually when I wake up in the morning and every muscle cries out: No, no, go back to bed!
Its an act of supreme self-will that persuades me to keep on keeping on, knowing that the aches and stiffness will ease as long as I keep moving.
I think in my heart, I havent yet passed 21. My eye make-up hasnt changed since 1966, when I copied Dusty Springfield.
My current haircut bears a striking resemblance to the Vidal Sassoon style made famous in the Sixties by Mary Quant.
Now the children are grown up and gone, I can accept invitations to any social event I choose.
I dont have to get home early or worry that Im neglecting my responsibilites I dont have any! I still read the authors I loved when I was 21: Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte and Pearl S. Buck.
Im as likely to have Dusty or Joan Baez or The Beatles playing as Beyonce and, yes, I still dance around the sitting room when Im alone.
I still ask: Do I look OK in this? no more confident in my body image now than I was then.
I only look in the mirror when I have to, and that hasnt changed since 1965. I guess you could say Ive never grown up.
Jenni Murrays new book, A History Of Britain In 21 Women, is published by Oneworld.
FORGET 54... IM STILL ONLY 33
JILL DAWSON
Jill Dawson is the best-selling author of nine novels, including The Great Lover, about the poet Rupert Brooke
Jill Dawson is the best-selling author of nine novels, including The Great Lover, about the poet Rupert Brooke (chosen as a 2009 Richard and Judy Summer Read). Jill is married with two sons and a foster daughter.
Yesterday, I went swimming in a cool, green English river. In my teens or 20s, Id have been horribly self-conscious hanging around in broad daylight in my swimsuit. But at the age of 33, something magical happened: I grew up.
My mother always said (proudly) that she never felt grown up. Inside, she felt exactly the same as she did at 13. Her declaration used to make me shudder 13 for ever! The age of anxiety and self-consciousness.
I hoped that having children would make me feel like an adult but, when I had my son at 26, little changed. I was still hopeless at everything. I couldnt drive. I was in a rubbish relationship, but had no money or job and felt I couldnt leave. I wanted to be a writer.
What made me grow up? It was an unexpected bonus of ending that relationship, aged 30.
Being a single parent was the making of me. I had to get a job and learn to drive. Over the next three years, I did a part-time Masters in writing and got a distinction. I published my first novel, Trick Of The Light, in 1996. And at the end of that year, I fell in love.
So inside, thats who I feel I am. The woman I grew into at 33.
Her friends told her: 'things will rapidly improve the more love a child gets'
Growing up, I always thought I would give birth to a child, but I always thought Id adopt as well. So when I finally adopted my daughter, Tuesday, four years ago, it wasnt second best. I hadnt minded which way it happened adoption or birth child.
For years, people had asked me lots of questions about why I didnt have children: Was I going to have them? Was I going to get married?
I was asked these questions when I was with one partner, then when I was on my own. Its hard to face those questions if you really do want to have children. Its intrusive.
A mother at last: Lauren Child, author and illustrator of Charlie And Lola
Of course, youre much more likely to be asked if you want children if youre an author of childrens books, as I am. My Charlie And Lola and Clarice Bean books had become quite popular, and people seemed to be surprised that I wasnt a mother as though it wasnt possible to write for children without having had any.
Its almost as though theres something wrong with you if you either dont have them or dont want them.
I was around 41 when I decided to go down the adoption route as a single woman. I was dating Adrian, my partner, at the time he is now my daughter Tuesdays legal father but it was something I did very much on my own.
It was just where Adrian and I were at the time dating, rather than living together as we are now and, of course, adoption is a big decision to make.
Above: Lola on a spacehopper. Lauren says she was around 41 when she decided to go down the adoption route as a single woman
None of my friends thought for a minute: How is she going to cope? Everyone was incredibly supportive, especially my family. I told myself that people cope in far trickier circumstances than I was in and so I knew I could do it.
It helped that I had no doubts. I knew I wanted a child more than anything else. I was driven by that. There were times when I wished I was the kind of person who didnt really mind not having a child. But I did really mind. I felt I have to do this.
Going through the process of getting Tuesday was like a job in itself. It took five years and was very up and down. Writing Ruby Redfort, my teen detective series, helped, but I was very anxious most of the time. You are worrying about it all the time.
So much of your headspace is taken up with Should I be phoning someone? Should I be filling out a form? and generally being on edge. You dont know if it is ever going to happen. The unknown is so difficult. And the wait its a very long wait.
Adopting in Britain was not possible for me because, in this country, its difficult to do it as a single woman.
They also like to match you with a child who is culturally the same and, in a place like London, where the children are ethnically diverse, this was another difficulty. My age also counted against me. It wasnt for want of trying to adopt in Britain, but it just wasnt possible.
Above: Charlie and Lola. The author says: 'I hadnt even considered adopting from Mongolia, but I went there in 2008 as part of my work as an Artist for Peace with Unesco'
Actually, I really didnt mind where I adopted from, but there are only so many countries where you can.
I hadnt even considered adopting from Mongolia, but I went there in 2008 as part of my work as an Artist for Peace with Unesco. The people I was working with were so lovely, I started asking questions about whether I would be able to.
I was overwhelmed by the support I got there. There was no tutting and saying: You shouldnt adopt a child from our country and take her to your country. They made me think: Im right to do this.
The adoption process took four years almost the same time as it would have done in Britain. Finally, in 2012, I got a call to say that Id been matched with a little girl.
Tuesday was in a care centre. When I went there to pick her up, a nurse walked past me holding this beautiful little girl with plaits. She was about two-and-a-half. I thought: Oh, imagine if she was my daughter! Id be over the moon.
And then the nurse returned and I was handed her and told: This is your daughter!
She sat in my lap and was silent. Funnily enough, she looked a bit like Lola from Charlie And Lola. My Mongolian friends said: We think you drew her, Lauren!
And then the nurse returned and I was handed her and told: This is your daughter!
It was an extraordinary experience. The whole thing felt surreal. And then, after all the paperwork is signed, you go home together.
The flights home two, including a stopover in Seoul were traumatic. There was a lot of screaming and not much sleep.
I counted every minute of those 15 hours in the air. I have never been so relieved to step off any form of transport.
By the time I walked through immigration, I was unable to speak without tears rolling down my cheeks. The tough-looking man behind the desk was very nice and started chatting to me in such a kind way that I lost it completely. But I kept thinking: If I find this traumatic, what on earth must she be feeling? Back home in London, Tuesday never wanted me to leave her side. She had to sleep with me and often slept on my head. Sleep was not sleep any more. It was lying on the floor and dozing.
Adapting was hard for her. I just wanted to make it better for her, for her to be all right, but I also knew that it was going to take time.
That was the hardest thing. No one could fix it immediately.
Above: Charlie and Lola. She says: When I look back, its hard to believe that Tuesday is the same child as the one I brought back on the plane. And thats what my Mongolian friends had told me: things will rapidly improve the more love a child gets'
Adrian and my friends were incredible and, actually, although everything wasnt perfect we would have tantrums, all normal, but with fostering or adoption you dont necessarily know what the cause is Tuesday is an amazing child and everyone adored her.
When she was four, I suddenly saw that everything was totally different from how it had been. It had all got so much better, but the process had been so gradual.
When I look back, its hard to believe that Tuesday is the same child as the one I brought back on the plane. And thats what my Mongolian friends had told me: things will rapidly improve the more love a child gets.
Adrian is very involved in the parenting. He takes Tuesday to school most mornings, and I am lucky I can work from home.
Now that shes at school, she tells people shes half English and whole Mongolian. Thats her way of describing it, not mine.
She loves to draw and, often, after I have picked her up from school, she will come with me to the room where I do my illustrating and work alongside me.
Im working on an illustrated book on dogs and shes drawing the dogs for me. With my last book, she coloured in some numbers so beautifully that I used them as the endplate.
I am always talking about nature and nurture with my friends. I think so much of who you are is already in you. Obviously, it can be drawn out, but there are things that are just in us.
Tuesday is just like me when I was a child: totally passionate about drawing its something we can do together. They chose very well for me because there could not be a child I love more. I mean, shes perfect. I cant imagine life without her.
As told to Louise Carpenter
This winter, a slew of lifestyle gurus and stocking-filler books are urging us to practise 'hygge', the Danish art of cosiness and contentment, and snuggle up like modern-day Vikings.
Just last week, 'hygge' made it into the Collins Dictionary, proving that its cultural domination is complete.
But I simply can't get on board with this smug Scandi obsession. The truth is, home-grown British cosiness knocks hygge into a cocked hat.
This winter, a slew of lifestyle gurus and stocking-filler books are urging us to practise 'hygge', the Danish art of cosiness and contentment, and snuggle up like modern-day Vikings
So, no, I don't want to nest amid stripped Nordic floorboards and reindeer skin throws when I can have a velvety carpet and tartan wool rugs, thank you.
I'll pass on a Danish pastry in favour of a buttered crumpet and a roaring fire.
After all, cosy is what we Brits do best. We're the country of smoky evening fogs and dark steaming pubs, rain-lashed windows and shepherd's pie in the oven, Sunday night costume dramas and The Vicar Of Dibley.
What other country would, in survey after survey, vote not a glossy penthouse flat, or a flashy great mansion, but a snug little bungalow their favourite type of home? Where else could a sedate televised baking competition be the most-watched show of the year?
We even dish up murder as cosily as possible, with our queen of crime Agatha Christie setting her fiendish plots in sleepy villages, to be cracked by unlikely white-haired sleuth Miss Marple.
As for the hygge hoopla about relishing the small things in life, what a joke!
As for the hygge hoopla about relishing the small things in life, what a joke!
It took an American, the writer Bill Bryson, to observe: 'The British really are the only people in the world who become genuinely enlivened when presented with a hot beverage and a small, plain biscuit.'
And there's no need to warn us off tricky topics, hygge-style, when a whiff of confrontation has most of us curling our toes in embarrassment, and the nation's favourite conversation starter is the weather.
All this Danish finger-wagging is making me feel quite un-hyggelig.
Many women in the workplace will have experienced it; the moment you're talking in a meeting, pitching an idea or solution, and then get talked over by a man.
To add insult to injury, sometimes the culprit will later pitch the same idea you did, and be the one to get credit for it.
It's a common phenomenon, one that has been dubbed 'manterrupting'.
Not impressed: Women are fighting against 'manterrupting', when men interrupt them frequently
'Imma let you finish': Kayne West very famously manterrupted Taylor Swift at the VMAs (above)
And it's not just everyday office workers who experience this either, with powerful women all over the world fighting against it.
Who could forget that moment at the VMAs when Kayne West jumped on stage to interrupt Taylor Swift?
Or the 55 times Donald Trump interrupted Hillary Clinton in the first US Presidential Debate?
It's not new either. In a study by the University of California in 1975, researchers recorded everyday conversations men and women had in public places like cafes and supermarkets.
They found in conversations between men and women, 47 out of the 48 interruptions were made by men.
Frequent: In the first US presidential election (above) Donald Trump interrupted Hillary Clinton 55 times
HOW DO YOU FIGHT MANTERRUPTERS? Follow the advice of White House staffers and support other women by amplifying their ideas Introduce a no-interruptions rule at staff meetings Continue speaking even when interrupted until the person gets the message Advertisement
One woman, however, is trying to fight manterruptions one at a time.
Shivani Gopal, who had a long career in the financial-services industry and is now the founder of website The Remarkable Woman, says that manterruptions are more harmful than they first appear.
'In a nutshell, manterruption is the unnecessary interruption of a woman speaking by a man. We speak up, only to be shot down by a louder, more forceful male colleague,' she told News Local.
'Interruptions are in essence a verbal assertion of power enabling the interrupter to take the floor of the conversation'
'Interruptions are in essence a verbal assertion of power': Some women are now employing tactics to try and stop manterrupting
The remarkable woman: Shivani Gopal (above) says she has experienced manterrupting frequently
To try and combat this, female staffers in The White House came up with a clever way to stop manterrupting and ensure their voices weren't overlooked.
Whenever one woman made a good point, another would amplify it by repeating it and crediting it back to the woman who said it, according to The Washington Post.
This helped to prevent interruptions and colleagues getting undue credit for another's ideas.
It's a tip that Ms Gopal says she believes works, along with a couple of others to stop manterruptions.
The entrepreneur says that another tactic is to just keep talking and not let the interrupter speak, or talk to your boss about continual offenders.
Amplification: Female White House staffers came up with a tactic where they reinforced other women's points to prevent manterrupting
Alternatively if you are the boss, implementing rules to prevent interruptions in meetings can go a long way to helping.
This is particularly important in industries that are male dominated, and could help to retain good female talent.
Wrapped up: Elle Macpherson looking glamorous
Making the best of a bad job is a great British characteristic, at least thats what I was telling myself as I trudged into a biting wind along Regent Street the other day.
Hellish weather, dark mornings and early nightfall are with us, bringing with them the certainty that messing around with flimsy fashion, such as the strappy shoes Id foolishly gone out in, is no longer an option.
Now is the time to armour-up with serious footwear.
Bravely onward into the minefield of ugly shoes we go. Because when it comes to getting a proper winter armoury together, shoes are by far the most problematic purchase.
Scarves, gloves and hats are the easy bit, readily available everywhere. Footwear that can cope with rain, ice, snow, slush and slippery pavements is a whole other issue if you want to retain a modicum of self-respect on the style front.
High-heeled boots are fine to a point, and I love them as an answer to autumnal weather, but I dont want to risk ruining my best on a salt-strewn road.
Besides, tottering around on heels looks ridiculous when arctic conditions hit. Not to mention being dangerous.
So, whats the answer? Finding an acceptable compromise between practicality and style is annoyingly tough in the British High Street.
Hiking boots and wellies have their place for country walks, obviously. But the kind of deep-tread, fake-fur-lined, bad-weather boots served up by companies in this country have a depressing old-lady look about them, which is just a bridge too far.
Hence why I was on Regent Street heading towards U.S. firm J. Crew, which is well used to tooling up its customers for fashion survival through the serious onslaughts of North American winters.
Its answer is an excellent example of the hybrid between a Chelsea boot and a welly the stealth welly if you like.
It passes as a classic-but-cool fashion choice but is also properly, comfortably rain-proof.
The fact that this seasons version is in matte black rather than shiny plastic is a further bonus.
Point being: they look good with a slim, tailored trouser-suit and an overcoat for any woman on the daily commute; something U.S. retailers take into consideration for their legions of professional customers. For the best example of the stealth welly, look at J. Crews Matte Chelsea Rain Boots (68, jcrew.com).
Hunter has also waded in with its Chelsea Wellies, 80, although these are definitely as you might expect from a welly company more obviously rubbery than the J. Crew design.
WET WEATHER BOOT RULES Slim-leg trousers work best with short boots as they will tuck inside at the ankle.
Beware hybrid boots with obvious welly-style toes these dont look at all chic.
Curb the urge to buy coloured rubber boots, youll be in circus clown territory.
When buying black boots, always go for the most matte finish available. Advertisement
Another style merge in the quest for dry feet is the biker-boot-cum-Wellington. Just like the now ubiquitous biker jacket, the biker boot has now been reworked to suit all ages.
The French have this one nailed. Wellington company Aigle has a couple of good examples in its range.
For a short, unadorned shape try Aigles Miss Juliette Bottillion Boots (75, office.co.uk). Or for a slightly longer and more literal biker style, look at Aigles Miss Julie Wellies (100, also available at office.co.uk).
Zadig & Voltaire, the French mid-market High Street brand, is also, Ive discovered, a really good source of durable, low-heeled boots for tramping around soggy pavements.
Id recommend this seasons motorcycle-strapped Roady Rubber Boots (zadig-et-voltaire.com).
Designer shoes, industrial-strength hairspray and moisturising lotions worthy of a Nobel Prize.
Every month young men are splashing hundreds of dollars on items such as these in an expensive effort to look their best.
And new research has revealed that not only are men willing to fork out to look good, but they are spending more on beauty than the fairer sex.
Preening: A new survey has found that men are spending more than women on clothes and beauty products
A new nationwide survey by Suncorp Insurance has found that men in their 20s are spending more on clothes, shoes and personal care than their female counterparts.
The survey of 1,000 found that males in their 20s will splash an average of $493 every month to look good, compared with females, who spend an average of $390 a month.
'Men are much more into fashion these days,' social researcher Mark McCrindle told the Adelaide Advertiser.
'And when it comes to appearances it is not just aftershave any more, it is all sorts of cosmetics, from moisturiser and hair product to perfumes.'
Forking out: Women spend an average of $390 a month to look good, while men spend an average of $493.
Mr McCrindle said the most obvious indicator of the trend could be seen in the personal care aisle at the supermarket.
'You only have to go to the hair product section at supermarkets to see the male section as full as the female,' he said.
Suncorp Regional Manager Danniele Sim said the results illustrated the changing priorities of today's young adults.
'Our research shows that people in their 20s face conflicting financial priorities such as wanting to save for a house deposit, eating out and taking holidays,' she said.
Nearly 50,000 people have since liked the candid comparison photo
She also encouraged her followers to love their bodies, whatever size
She said that she thinks the photo on the right is more beautiful
In the photo on the left, Ms Crabbe is fully made up; then bare-faced
A recovered anorexic has drawn praise on Instagram, thanks to an affirming message encouraging other women to love themselves, whatever size or shape they are.
Megan Jayne Crabbe, 23, from Essex, posted a raw comparison photo on Instagram last week, with the opening line: 'I think that one of these pictures is more beautiful than the other. But it's not the one you think.'
The accompanying photos show Ms Crabbe stood tall and slim on the left, and then sitting down, with visible stomach rolls and make-up-free, on the right.
In both photos, she is smiling.
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Raw: Megan Jayne Crabbe, 23, from Essex uploaded a raw comparison photo to Instagram (pictured), in which she encouraged other women to love themselves
Happy: Ms Crabbe struggled with anorexia in the past, which she has written about on her website - she now describes herself as a 'body positive warrior'
'One would be called curvy, the other fat,' Ms Crabbe wrote on her detailed caption with the split photo.
I think it's more beautiful just to be yourself
'One looks like a "before", the other looks like an "after". One will inspire people to tell me that I'm unhealthy, unworthy, unlovable.
'The other will be praised, admired, desired. And even though I've spent my life believing that the version of me on the left is more valuable than the version on the right, I've changed my mind now.
'I think it's more beautiful just to be yourself.'
Change: Ms Crabbe said she had spent her life thinking she had to be one way (pictured left: when suffering with anorexia and right: now) - now she thinks it's beautiful to be yourself
Viral: These days, Ms Crabbe has more than 300,000 followers on Instagram, who follow her profile for its advice and body-positive messages
Moving forward: 'The rolls on my stomach, the cellulite dotting my thighs, my face bare and my mind free from what anybody else wants me to be,' Ms Crabbe posted
Ms Crabbe went on to say that the photo on the left is 'posed', 'polished' and 'unnatural':
'It was taken with all the pressures of what a "perfect" body should look like in mind,' she said.
'In the picture on the right, I am relaxed. I am content. I am celebrating all the parts of myself I've been taught to be ashamed of for my whole life.
The rolls on my stomach, the cellulite dotting my thighs, my face bare and my mind free from what anybody else wants me to be. And that freedom is beautiful
'The rolls on my stomach, the cellulite dotting my thighs, my face bare and my mind free from what anybody else wants me to be.
'And that freedom is beautiful.'
Ms Crabbe, who wrote on her website about her struggle with anorexia and who now describes herself as a 'body positive warrior', regularly shares realistic photos of herself and others to her 318,000 Instagram followers.
And this message has resonated as much as many of her posts, with nearly 50,000 likes already.
'I spent so many years of my life counting calories, working out and starving myself to get to a size 8 and all of that time I was miserable and low,' one person wrote.
'I love the message you are putting across. You are beautiful!'.
Resonating: Ms Crabbe's message has resonated hugely with her followers online, where close to 50,000 people have liked the message and shared comments
Personal stories: 'I spent so many years of my life counting calories, working out and starving myself to get to a size 8 and all of that time I was miserable and low,' one person wrote
Similar: Other women have since taken to social media to share similarly candid comparison photos of themselves, too (pictured)
Other women have since taken to social media to share similarly candid comparison photos of themselves, too.
31-year-old self-described 'fitness junkie', Ashlie Molstad, also posted a split shot in similar poses.
'Same girl. Different angles,' she posted to her 10,000 Instagram followers.
'I say that the real magic happens when we embrace who we are, at every angle and size.'
A prominent breastfeeding advocate has hit out at critics who say she is 'a crazed lactivist who wants to drown humanity in her boob milk'.
Author Meg Nagle said that just because she supported breastfeeding, it did not mean she judged other mothers who fed their babies with formula.
The mother-of-three, who runs the popular Milk Meg blog, said she was more concerned with whether infants were fed, rather than how they were fed.
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Sick of it: Breastfeeding advocate Meg Nagle (pictured) hit back at critics who branded her a 'crazed lactivist'
Most importantly: While Ms Nagle was a strong supporter of breastfeeding, she said the most important thing was whether a baby was fed or not
'You know what I'm sick of? People assuming International Board Certified Lactation Consultants are "anti" formula,' the certified lactation consultant wrote on her Facebook page.
'That we are crazed "lactavists" who want to drown humanity in our boob milk. That we judge women who bottle feed and talk about them like they are idiots.
'Get with it people, we don't spend time worrying about people who don't want to breastfeed.'
Not bothered: The mother-of-three said she was not bothered about mothers who did not wish to breastfeed
The mother-of-three, who caused a stir earlier this year when she admitted she breastfed her nephew, said the baby's well-being was always the most important thing.
'I love hearing women tell their stories about how they persevered and continued breastfeeding through incredible challenges,' she wrote.
'And I know in my heart of hearts that how we feed our babies does matter.
Causing a stir: Ms Nagle said the best thing for mothers and babies would always be different depending on circumstances
'What is best for us and our babies individually might differ between people.
'However, I will forever advocate for breastfeeding, cuddling our babies, answering their cries and feeding a baby when they are hungry.
This post is by Adriana Martinez, the Interim Director of Operations for the Innovation Lab Network at the Council of Chief State School Officers.
A few weeks ago, I packed my bags and ventured into New England for the first time. At first, I was unimpressed with New Englands main attraction, the colorful foliage, which was the main conversation starter of all the small talk and the center of all the New England jokes. I quickly changed my mind, however, as soon as I was on a bus on our way to Pittsfield Elementary . As our bus driver maneuvered our incredibly large bus through tiny and windy roads of rural New Hampshire, I was captivated by the moment, excited by the oranges, purples, and reds around me, and the schools I was about to see. If youre familiar with the Innovation Lab Network (ILN), you can easily guess why I was in the New Hampshire on a bus visiting schools. If youre not familiar with the ILN, this is a network of twelve states facilitated by the Council of Chief State School Officers dedicated to transforming public education to by centering student needs within personalized learning and competency-based education systems.
This small corner of the world has garnered incredible attention over the last couple of years for their work in competency-based education and performance assessment, known as the PACE pilot. I was joined by curious education leaders from across the nation clamoring to visit schools to see first-hand the transformation taking place in New Hampshire. As a longstanding member of the ILN and a national leader, New Hampshire was a natural site for convening our network, comprised of senior state education agency leaders and local practitioners. When we convened all the education leaders representing twelve states committed to transforming education and advancing learner-centered learning, we had the opportunity to collectively reflect on our achievements and challenges to date, and to look ahead to the future (and make jokes about leaves, too).
People may think the PACE pilot, or the Performance Assessment for Competency Education pilot, is the main attraction New Hampshire has for education policy. The pilot offers the state and its districts a fantastic opportunity to learn about the process of assessment and how assessment informs student learning. But lets be clear: PACE is only the tip of the iceberg of whats going on in New Hampshire. What allows New Hampshire to stand out as a leader in public education is its relentless spirit and willingness to be innovative and focus on what students need.
When Pittsfield Elementary opened its door to us, they werent there to showcase their PACE work; they were there to showcase nascent work around personalized learning, something called NG2 or no grades no grades. NG2 represents a concept that moves away from grade levels as the central organizing structure for moving students through their learning trajectory and moves away from letter grades (A-F) as the main indicator of student learning. Instead, students move through their learning at flexible paces that meet students where they are. Students move on when they demonstrate proficiency, not when they achieve a minimum letter grade. The work at Pittsfield Elementary only started this year, but already I could see the impact it was having on students. Moving towards a system that is flexible and that emphasizes student learning rather than grades impacts children in several ways, most notably by empowering students to be agents of their own learning.
Some of the work New Hampshire is leading in personalized learning was stimulated through collaborative learning with their ILN peers in Wisconsin. Last year, our Annual Convening gathered this same group of state leaders in Milwaukee to view personalized learning in action. Following that meeting, state leaders in New Hampshire knew they could learn more from these schools and organized a series of school visits so that their educators could learn from their colleagues in Wisconsin. As the work around personalized learning and NG2 is beginning in New Hampshire, state leaders are making plans to collaborate with the Institute for Personalized Learning in Wisconsin to work on leadership development, in an effort to better support this work.
Other examples of powerful collaborative learning can be seen in other states in the Innovation Lab Network. This coming spring, Kentucky will send their own cadre of educators to Wisconsin schools to learn about their practices and lessons learned in order to build connections among peer educators and support the implementation of personalized learning within their state. This is the power of our network in action: our states inspire and push each other to raise the bar for kids, they commit to learning together, and supporting each other along the way. This group of states, and many more, will lead the nation as they prepare for a new era in education marked by our transition to implementing the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). Many states, including those in the Innovation Lab Network, will leverage ESSA to advance student-centered learning in bold and innovative ways.
As I left New Hampshire and made my way back home to DC, I felt energized and hopeful for our future--and not just because of the beautiful leaves. I encourage you to join us along this journey! The ILN recently launched a newsletter where we will share updates from all of our member states and insights from projects led by the ILN. Some of these projects include work were leading around Educator Competencies for Personalized, Learner-Centered Teaching and leadership; our collective exploration on equity and personalized learning; a new project were coordinating on career readiness and competency-based education; and our work to support states in ESSA implementation through innovative approaches to accountability and assessment. Finally, you can always learn about the work and journeys of our states through our interactive site Next State of Learning .
Photos by Adriana Martinez.
Ms Cromer told Daily Mail her priorities have shifted since having kids
She launched it in Woolworths in March, and looks set to turn over $1m
And so, she came up with a healthy smoothie base product with no sugar
After having children, she decided she wanted to raise a healthy family
Imagine having an idea, making it into a business, and turning over what looks set to be AUD $1 million dollars in the first year.
That's what Sydney-based mum-of-three, Natasha Cromer, has done thanks to her idea for a healthy breakfast product.
Desperate to find something tasty, but also healthy and nutritious for her kids, she had an idea to make smoothie bases, with 'no sugar, no additives and no nasties [sic]'.
These days, you're more likely to see her brightly-coloured products in the aisles of supermarkets like Woolworths than you are in her own Maroubra-based kitchen.
Healthy: Sydney-based mum, Natasha Cromer (pictured), came up with a healthy breakfast idea after having children
Business plan: After she had her three kids (two pictured), Ms Cromer knew she wanted to feed them healthy, filling breakfasts - rather than sugary cereals
However, Ms Cromer, 41, told Daily Mail Australia she wasn't always so health-conscious.
'Before I had my three children, Ben, Finlay and Matilda, I wasn't all that healthy myself.
Like most women, I wanted to be healthy, but I was also busy, and didn't have the time to dedicate to my health
'Like most women, I wanted to be, but I was also busy, and didn't have the time to dedicate to my health.
'I think when any mother has children, their priorities come into sharp focus.'
And so, sick of the sugary cereals and breakfast products which dominate the supermarket aisles, Ms Cromer decided to come up with her own smoothie-based breakfast option.
She created smoothie bases that 'crunch down all of the best parts from muesli - the oats, the chia seeds and the almonds - and omits the bad bits like sugar,' Ms Cromer said.
The bases are simple, with clean ingredients and no additives, and are blended together with milk and fruit to create a breakfast smoothie.
Simple but delicious: Ms Cromer's smoothie bases (pictured) 'crunch down all of the best parts from muesli - the oats, the chia seeds and the almonds - and omit the bad bits like sugar'
Shift: Ms Cromer said her priorities have shifted somewhat since she has had children - she didn't used to be all that healthy through her twenties, but now is much more so
Nutritional focus: 'I think when any mother has children, their priorities come into sharp focus,' Ms Cromer said
Flavour tests: The mother tried out lots of flavour combinations (pictured) at home, and invested $300,000 of her own money into the business
Several months later, and after lots of testing flavour combinations from her home and investing $300,000 of her own funds, Wholey Foods Breakfast Smoothies launched to market.
In 2015, with the financial backing of a private group of investors, Ms Cromer took the idea to Woolworths, who put the product on the shelves in March.
Ms Cromer's background in consumer goods marketing was an advantage, but she still hasn't paid herself a salary, putting any profit straight back into the business.
Success: In 2015, with the financial backing of a private group of investors, Ms Cromer took the idea to Woolworths, who put the product on the shelves in March
'It's challenging, I'm not going to lie,' she said.
'I have to wear many different hats and am expected to be across all of the business at all points, even over the weekend,' she said.
'But the feedback from other customers has been amazing - to inspire others towards being a little bit healthier is great.'
Looking forward: While Ms Cromer hasn't yet paid herself a salary, putting all profits back into the business, Woolworths predict she will turn over $1m in the first year with Wholey Foods
Creative: Meanwhile, the products can also be turned into smoothie bowls (left) for other variations on a healthy breakfast
Advice: When it comes to business advice, Ms Cromer (pictured) says if you have a good idea 'you should be brave and go for it', so that you don't regret it
Meanwhile, Wholey Foods continues to go from strength to strength.
Woolworths have forecasted that her brand will turn over more than $1 million in retail sales in the first year, and Ms Cromer loves receiving positive feedback every day.
'My three kids love the smoothies, and I love the fact that I know I'm giving them something that's good for them and will fill them up,' Ms Cromer said.
'If you've got a good idea, my advice is just be brave and go for it. You may regret it otherwise.'
She has been favouring an edgier style of late with her last engagement seeing Queen Letizia rocked a studded leather top.
However, the Queen of Spain opted for a sensible aesthetic for her conference in Madrid this afternoon.
The mother-of-two wore a formal fitted two-piece suit in charcoal grey for her engagement in the Spanish capital.
Queen Letizia harked back to her days as a news reader today opting for a VERY formal ensemble as she attended a conference in Madrid
The snug-fitting suit showcased the royal's famously slender frame during her outing on Monday.
Letizia, 44, paired her elegant ensemble with a pair of simple black patent pumps as she stepped out this afternoon.
The former journalist who is attending the 'Women in top executive posts' conference at the BBVA Building, paired her outfit with pearl coloured accessories.
The Spanish royal is attending the 'Women in top executive posts' conference at the BBVA Building
The mother-of-two wore a formal fitted two-piece suit in charcoal grey for her engagement in the Spanish capital
She could be seen wearing a pair of white drop earrings and carrying a cream coloured clutch with agate detailing.
The royal, who has been favouring a curlier hair style of late, today swapped her boucles for a poker straight blow dry.
The queen attended her engagement without the company of her husband King Felipe VI this afternoon.
The royal paired her slimming ensemble with a a pair of white pearl drop earrings
Letizia joined Spanish Health, Social Services and Equality Minister, Dolors Montserrat (left) for this afternoon's presentation
However, she was not without company joining Spanish Health, Social Services and Equality Minister, Dolors Montserrat for this afternoon's presentation.
The royal was given a front row seat at the conference where she was seen applauding the female executives today.
Letizia's formal aesthetic today is world's away from the rock chick vibe she emulated last week.
On Friday Queen Letizia showed off her more edgy side in a studded black leather peplum top.
The royal brightened up her outfit with a cream clutch bag decorated with agate detailing
The royal was given a front row seat at the conference where she was seen applauding the female executives today
The royal was joined by her husband King Felipe as she attended the Francisco Cerecedo' journalism award at the Ritz Hotel in Madrid.
The royal was clearly keen to vamp up her look for the night out, wearing a 225 leather top featuring studded detail at the wrists, waist and neckline.
Known for champion native designers, it's no surprise the edgy item came from the Spanish brand Uterque.
She kept to a dark colour palette, teaming the garment with slim dark trousers and black patent heels.
Mother-of-two Letizia carried her essentials in a small clutch bag, which also featured stud details to complement her top.
Queen Letizia of Spain, 44, showed off her more edgy side in a studded black leather peplum top
King Felipe VI of Spain and Queen Letizia of Spain attend the 'Francisco Cerecedo' journalism award at the Ritz Hotel in Madrid
The royal was clearly keen to vamp up her look for the night out, wearing the leather top which features studded detail at the wrists, waist and neckline
King Felipe cut a more sombre figure in a dark suit and purple tie
And she vamped up her usual natural look, rocking a smoky eye and glossy berry lips.
Meanwhile, her husband King Felipe cut a more sombre figure in a dark suit and purple tie.
The event held at the Ritz is an annual occurrence, which sees a journalist honoured by the Association of European Journalists.
This year Italian writer and columnist Claudio Magris was the recipient of the prestigious prize.
The Spanish royal vamped up her usual natural look, rocking a smoky eye and glossy berry lips.
A smiling Queen Letizia looks flawless as she attends a journalism awards ceremony at The Ritz in Madrid
Tonight's outing comes as King Felipe prepares for a controversial state visit to Saudi Arabia
It's been a busy week for the royals who opened the annual Carlos III: The Keys of a Reign symposium in Madrid on Monday.
The Queen used the outing as an opportunity to recycle, sporting a favourite Hugo Boss skirt and jacket combo she has worn on four previous occasions.
King Felipe is due to set off for Saudi Arabia in the next few days for an official visit.
However, the upcoming trip is not an altogether popular prospect among Spanish politicans.
Tommy Hilfiger has praised model Gigi Hadid as the embodiment of the 'American dream girl next door', after facing a backlash over comments he made about her not being as thin as other models.
The designer, 65, opened up about his appreciation of the supermodel in an interview with Hello! magazine to celebrate the release of his memoir American Dreamer: My Life In Fashion And Business.
Pictured at his home at New York's Plaza hotel with wife Dee, 50, it was a chance to show off the stunning apartment with views of Central Park and is brimming with rare pieces by artists such as Andy Warhol.
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Tommy Hilfiger, 65, pictured at his home in new York's Plaza Hotel with his wife Dee, 50
'She doesn't really fit': 21-year-old supermodel Gigi Hadid wore an oversized red, white and blue poncho because casting directors said she wasn't 'quite as thin' as the other models
Opening up about 21-year-old supermodel Gigi, the designer said that when the she first walked for him in his 30th anniversary show, he knew she had something special.
'She is wholesome, built like a woman, yet fresh,' he explained. 'She is smart, funny and humble and we loved that.'
He added that the rising star was extremely hands on with the creation of her fragrance The Girl.
Describing her Southern California style as 'sporty, sexy with great taste', he added: 'She is definitely a girl with a bright future.'
Gigi recently defended the designer, telling Access Hollywood that designer was 'rooting' for her and wanted her in his show because he loved her curves
Gigi Hadid was forced to cover up in a large poncho during New York Fashion Week at the Tommy Hilfiger Fall 2015 show after a casting director said she 'wasn't as thin' as the other girls.
However the model defended the designer, telling Access Hollywood: 'Tommy was rooting for me and... regardless of what the stylist of that season said or what he put me in.
'Tommy wanted me in the show, and Tommy was pushing for me and Tommy loved my curves.'
Gigi wore an oversized red, white and blue poncho on the runway as she sauntered down the catwalk.
'More accepting': The next season Gigi rocked the runway in a skimpy bikini for the designer
The designer received backlash earlier this month after comments he made regarding his team's decision to put her in the garb.
'Our casting director said she doesn't really fit,' Hilfiger, 65, began.
'Because you know, she's not quite as tall as the other girls, she's not quite as thin, so they put a red, white and blue poncho on her.'
Tommy Hifliger heaped praise on Gigi Hadid in this week's issue of Hello! magazine
He continued: 'Covered a lot of her body, unfortunately, but it received millions of hits.'
The bold coloured frock went on to become a best-selling item by the high end apparel line.
Hilfiger told Yahoo: 'So I said you know, why don't we ask her to design a line with us? So I said, "Gigi, come design this with me, we'll do a Gigi, Tommy Hilfiger line."'
Speaking to Access Hollywood the genetically-gifted stunner said: 'When Tommy said it last week it was in context of a larger story that wasn't shown in that video.'
'The next season I wore a bikini on the same runway with the same stylist of the show that had previously put me in a poncho,' Gigi went on to further prove her point that Hilfiger was on her side.
The first series of Planet Earth, aired in 2006, also faced accusations of 'faking'
The BBC has revealed that breathtaking Planet Earth II footage that appeared to show a wild golden eagle's view of a mountainous habitat was actually filmed using a captive bird that lives in a wildlife sanctuary in France.
The tame eagle, known as Slovak, was filmed swooping over the Alps at speeds of up to 200mph - taking viewers with it via a 'lipstick' camera strapped to its back.
In a video on its website, the BBC confirms that Slovak, who resides at the Park les Aigles du Leman, was turned into a cameraman using his professional bird trainer.
In the second hour-long episode on Sunday, the predator, which boasts a seven-foot wingspan, was seen dive-bombing through the mountains to feed on the corpse of a red fox; footage viewers said left them 'lost for words.'
Bird's eye view...but stunning footage gained in Sunday night's episode of Planet Earth II used a trained bird named Slovak, from a wildlife sanctury in France, and a professional eagle trainer who helped attach a 'lipstick' camera to its back
Revealed! The BBC's spin-off web clips show how trainer Jaques-Olivier Travers used a 4K lipstick camera strapped to his trained bird Slovak to capture the exhilarating footage
It isn't the first time the Planet Earth series has been accused of 'creating' scenes.
A former cameraman for the first series of the nature documentary, which aired in 2006, revealed that footage was 'faked' for dramatic effect and even admitted scenes showing a polar bear giving birth had actually taken place in a zoo.
And last year, it emerged that a volcanic eruption scene in another BBC show, Patagonia: Earth's Secret Paradise, had been doctored.
So is the BBC simply up to its old tricks? Or are nature documentaries simply 'making movies', as Sir Attenborough himself once suggested.
It certainly appears the technique for 'creating' footage has been employed again in Planet Earth II.
A 'how we did it' video currently on the BBC's website explaining in more transparent detail how Slovak was used in the new eagle scenes.
This time, they employed bird trainer Jaques-Olivier Travers, who fitted a miniature 'lipstick' camera to a young golden eagle called Slovak.
The footage they returned with offered a glimpse of the high-altitude world, from the perspective of a soaring eagle. When combined with footage of wild birds, the on-board camera shots give us the true sensation of what it feels like to fly above the Alps at 5,000metres.
Trickery: Mr Travers explains how the spellbinding footage is achieved using Slovak, who lives in a wildlife sanctuary
But fans watching the BBC wildlife documentary took to social media to express their disbelief over the footage, with some even suggesting the footage was 'fake'
Bird handler Travers explains: 'For this footage, we decided with the producer since the beginning to use an on-board camera. We'd have to train the bird to carry this camera on its back.
'You can't see it, but he has a small harness all around his body, very well adapted to his body. We've fixed a small camera, a very light one, and the shape is perfect. And now Slovak is ready to become a cameraman.'
He added: 'At the end I think the result is really amazing. I'm very proud [of] the bird, I think he did an amazing job and I think people will be very surprised to see for the first time what an eagle can see when he flies from a very high location.'
Si r David Attenborough also revealed in the Planet Earth II Diaries spin-off that they had recorded the stunning footage with the help of paraglider Aaron Durogati, who wore a specially designed helmet camera to film the perspective of a diving eagle by jumping off a 3,000m mountain full of crevasses.
Some viewers expressed their disbelief, with Charl writing: 'Man, Planet Earth 2 was mental last night. They strapped a camera to an eagle. GANDALF VISION OR WHAT?'
He explained: 'Revealing a new perspective on the life of golden eagles in the mountains would take two very different approaches.
'A traditional wildlife crew set out to film wild eagles closer than ever before, whilst an aerial team aimed to capture the hunting flights of eagles high in the mountains.'
The veteran wildlife presenter and naturalist told how they adopted an 'extreme approach' to capture the footage.
Fans watching the footage have called the scenes some of the best they've watched, which is reflected in the viewing figures; the show garnered 10.6 million viewers on Sunday evening.
Taking to Twitter, Gav wrote: 'Those shots from the back of the eagle on Planet Earth II are some of the best things I've ever seen.'
Daniel Fahy claimed he was 'lost for words' while The Real Ray Niland added: 'Unreal television. Eagle with a gopro at 200mph. #PlanetEarth [sic.].'
THIS IS HOW WE FAKED IT! MEET SLOVAK'S TRAINER... In an extra clip on the BBC's website, Mr Travers explained: 'For this footage, we decided with the producer since the beginning to use an on-board camera. We'd have to train the bird to carry this camera on its back. Raptor conservationist Jaques-Olivier Travers who helped the BBC capture a bird's eye view of what a golden eagle might see - using his trained eagle Slovak 'You can't see it, but he has a small harness all around his body, very well adapted to his body. We've fixed a small camera, a very light one, and the shape is perfect. And now Slovak is ready to become a cameraman.' He added: 'At the end I think the result is really amazing. I'm very proud [of] the bird, I think he did an amazing job and I think people will be very surprised to see for the first time what an eagle can see when he flies from a very high location.' Advertisement
Narrator David Attenborough revealed: 'Revealing a new perspective on the life of golden eagles in the mountains would take two very different approaches
Others expressed their disbelief at the cameramen's skills with Charl writing: 'Man, Planet Earth 2 was mental last night. They strapped a camera to an eagle. GANDALF VISION OR WHAT?'
MailOnline has contacted the BBC for comment.
A former cameraman for the first series of the nature documentary, which aired in 2006, revealed that footage was 'faked' for dramatic effect and even admitted scenes showing a polar bear giving birth had actually taken place in a zoo.
Veteran wildlife cameraman Doug Allan lifted the lid on how the dramatic birth was produced, saying he understood why people felt 'deceived' after the BBC aired behind-the-scenes footage of the polar bear having her cubs in a protected setting with zoo professionals on hand.
He said: I think the BBC didnt handle it the best. On their website there was a video showing how it was done, but they didnt quite bring enough attention to it [in the actual series]. It wasnt obvious.'
Daniel Fahy claimed he was 'lost for words' while The Real Ray Niland added: 'Unreal television. Eagle with a gopro at 200mph. #PlanetEarth
And last year, it emerged that a volcanic eruption scene in another BBC show, Patagonia: Earth's Secret Paradise, had been doctored.
Awe-inspiring footage claimed to show a 'dirty thunderstorm' during the eruption, with lightning strikes flashing through a cloud of volcanic ash.
But it was in fact made by splicing footage of two different volcanic eruptions together, one which happened in 2011 and the other in 2015.
Another BBC documentary: Human Planet: Deserts Life in the Furnace, last aired in August 2014, was also exposed for misleading viewers, when a seemingly savage wolf was revealed to actually be semi-domesticated.
Staff at the corporation were subsequently forced to undergo an 'anti-fakery' course afterwards.
Governing body The BBC Trust's report said staff working in the broadcaster's flagship Natural History Unit would be banned from working on future shows until they completed the new course.
Even the most dedicated home cooks will have indulged in a Saturday night takeaway at least once in their lives - but not former Great British Bake Off judge Mary Berry.
The 81-year-old national treasure says she's never brought home a curry, Chinese or even a pizza - and always cooks at home.
'You wont believe this, but I havent ever had a takeaway, revealed the Buckinghamshire home economist, who has published more than 75 cookbooks.
Mary Berry, pictured above at the National Television Awards this year, says she has never eaten a takeaway before - and would never eat Christmas dinner at a restaurant
Her love of home-made meals means she's also ruled out ever dining out for Christmas dinner one year.
'Absolutely not,' says Mary, speaking on the set of a new Food Network show, James Martins Christmas With Friends. 'I totally understand other people who eat out, but I have no wish to.'
There's still six weeks to go until Christmas but Mary Berry already knows what her husband Paul is buying her.
I have the same thing every year and its an IOU, says Mary, who has been married for 50 years.
I think its a brilliant thing to do. Then, when we go on holiday and have all the time in the world, I can go into a shop and see something I really shouldnt have and he says, Great, thats your present done.
Speaking about what her husband buys her for Christmas, Mary, who has been married for 50 years, said: I have the same thing every year and its an IOU'
'I used to have things like wallets given to me when I had a perfectly good wallet at home. It works for us.
Mary Berry says to 'cook the potatoes to perfection on Christmas Eve, drain them of any fat, and put them where the family wont pinch them when theyre warm (stock image)
Mary will spend the festive season with family.
Last Christmas, she and Paul went to her daughter Annabels house.
I cooked the turkey at home, says Mary.
It takes an hour to drive there so I cooked the turkey to absolute perfection and it did its resting in the boot of my car.
'I covered it with foil, a towel and a few anoraks. The gravy was in a thermos.
The star cook admits that she's frequently asked for cooking tips.
People often want to know how they can get everything in the oven at the same time on Christmas Day, she says.
I say cook the potatoes to perfection on Christmas Eve, drain them of any fat, and put them where the family wont pinch them when theyre warm.
'Then, you can just pop them back in the oven on the day to crispen them up.
I have the same thing every year and its an IOU, says the former Great British Bake Off judge, who has been married to Paul Hunnings for 50 years
If you often wake up in the middle of the night the impact could be more serious than bleary eyes the next day.
A major study suggests people who fail to sleep all the way through the night are at increased risk of heart complications.
The research, which draws on data from more than 14million patients, concluded that people who report frequent night-time awakening have a 26 per cent increased chance of developing an irregular heartbeat.
The condition, known as atrial fibrillation, is a major cause of strokes and heart failure.
Adults who often awoke at night were 26 per cent more likely to develop an irregular heartbeat, new research suggests
The research team, from the University of California San Francisco and the University of Michigan, also found that people who suffer insomnia, meaning they struggle to get to sleep at night or did not get enough sleep in total, had a 29 per cent increased risk of atrial fibrillation.
Scientists suspect sleep disruptions put extra stress on the chambers of the heart.
This could be because of the way key hormones are regulated during the sleep-wake cycle.
Emerging evidence suggests that sleep affects the metabolism and hormone balance of the body - affecting cholesterol, insulin, blood pressure and inflammation.
The part of the brain which regulates heartbeat and blood pressure - the autonomic system - could also be affected by irregular sleep, scientists think.
Doctors previously thought sleep was only likely to affect cardiovascular health if someone was suffering from sleep apnoea - which causes snoring and dangerous pauses in breathing at night.
But the researchers behind the new study took sleep apnoea into account when they calculated their results, and found heart risk remained even among people who did not have the condition.
Lead author Matt Christensen, who analysed the results of three huge datasets with a combined 14million records, said: The idea that these three studies gave us consistent results was exciting.
Separately, he also tracked 1,131 people, analysing the quality of their sleep by monitoring rapid-eye movement - a key indicator of deep sleep.
The condition - known as atrial fibrillation (AF) - can lead to strokes, heart failure and other deadly complications
That showed that having less rapid-eye movement sleep than other sleep phases during the night is linked to higher chances of developing atrial fibrillation.
Mr Christensen, who presented his findings yesterday at the American Heart Associations Scientific Sessions meeting in New Orleans, said: By examining the actual characteristics of sleep, such as how much rapid-eye movement sleep you get, it points us toward a plausible mechanism.
A GOOD NIGHT'S SLEEP REALLY DOES PAY OFF After a restless night, you can find yourself struggling to concentrate at work the next day. But it appears that a lack of sleep could be more costly than ever realised. A study suggests that additional time sleeping can raise your salary by thousands. Researchers from Williams College in Massachusetts and the University of California at San Diego say that a one-hour increase in sleep each week can raise wages by about half as much as an additional year of education. Advertisement
There could be something particular about how sleep impacts the autonomic nervous system.
Co-author Dr Gregory Marcus said: Ultimately, even without a clear understanding of the responsible mechanisms, we believe these findings suggest that strategies to enhance sleep quality, such as incorporating known techniques to improve sleep hygiene, may help prevent this important arrhythmia.
The researchers said getting enough physical activity, avoiding too much caffeine, and having a regular evening routine could all contribute to better sleep.
Earlier this year psychiatrists at the University of Freiburg found that sleep plays an essential role in resetting the connections of the brain each night.
The revelation of this nightly recalibration provided a major insight into why sleep is so crucial for different aspects of the way the mind and body works.
It explains why people cope so badly with a lack of sleep, displaying a major decline in cognition after just one sleepless night.
Cannabis users age faster than those who avoid the drug, a new study claims.
A study of just over 1,100 people found the drug has a significant affect on the cardiovascular system, accelerating the build-up of cholesterol in the arteries.
It means a 30-year-old cannabis smoker, for example, has the biological age of a 33-year-old, the University of West Australia researchers claim.
The study is the first of its kind to look at marijuana's impact on biological ageing.
Its release on Monday coincided with a report presented to the American Heart Association, which looked more closely at how cannabis weakens the heart muscles.
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A 30-year-old cannabis smoker, for example, has the biological age of a 33-year-old, University of West Australia researchers claim
Lead researcher Professor Stuart Reece said he was stunned by the results.
'We found that for those who used cannabis over a long time, not only does it age you, it increases ageing at an exponential rate over time which is alarming,' Professor Reece said.
'The level of cannabis exposure in the group studied was much higher than we have seen reported before in other studies for developed nations.'
Professor Reece said it was concerning that this was the first study to look at the long-term effects of smoking cannabis on the cardiovascular system and there were comparatively few studies across the world looking at its long-term effects.
'It is important to the health of populations worldwide that such research be continued, with the study highlighting the large-scale costs to the health system from cannabis use,' he said.
Professor Reece's study, published in the British Medical Journal, emerged a day after a US study detailed the strain cannabis has on the heart.
Researchers at St Luke's University Hospital Network analyzed data on 33,000 patients with cardiomyopathy, a sudden weakening of heart muscles, between 2003 and 2011.
The illness is typically brought on by severe stress or grief.
But according to lead research Dr Amitoj Singh, at least two cases in their study were partly brought on by marijuana.
'There have been many reports of heart attacks, strokes and the two cases of (stress cardiomyopathy) that have been linked to marijuana,' he said.
Presenting his data at the American Heart Association's annual meeting, Dr Singh argued for caution as marijuana legalization spreads across the country.
He warned young marijuana users do not typically display the tell-tale symptoms of cardiac risk, but he claims his data shows they have a higher risk of having one.
Dr Singh's study concluded that marijuana users are two times more likely to suffer a heart attack.
However, the majority of users in the study paired marijuana with tobacco and most suffered from depression.
'This is a retrospective study, so we cannot determine causation,' Dr Singh admitted.
Dairy giants could be shamed into taking some yoghurt pots off shelves and downsize others in an attack on sugar by health watchdogs.
Public Health England, which has been put in charge of part of the Government's Childhood Obesity Strategy, is alarmed that sugary yoghurts are fuelling weight gain.
Like fizzy drinks, many flavoured yoghurts are packed with sugar, however they will not be subject to the Government's planned sugar levy.
PHE has suggested that manufacturers should to cap the size of single serve pots of yoghurt at 125g.
Public Health England is alarmed that sugary yoghurts, such as Nestle Smarties yoghurt pots, which contain 22.68g of sugar, are fuelling weight gain.
Like fizzy drinks, many yoghurts are packed with sugar, however they will not be subject to the Government's planned sugar levy. Oreo Vanilla yoghurts contain 20.64g of sugar
It also wants to slash the average amount of sugar in yoghurt from the current figure of 11.05 per cent to 8.8 per cent by 2020.
Industry insiders are said to be furious at what they have called an 'appalling' attempt to demonise dairy products.
They point out that yoghurt, milk and cheese contain important nutrients, including calcium and vitamins.
There are concerns that a huge number of popular yoghurt products will have to undergo a dramatic recipe change or disappear from shelves.
PHE has no legal powers to require the companies to change, however it could shame those that fail to fall into line.
A number of children's yoghurts are too sweet based on the PHE targets.
These include Petits Filous Raspberry & Strawberry Fromage Frais at 11.9 per cent sugar; and Munch Bunch Fromage Frais with Strawberry Puree and Vanilla Flavour at 13.4 per cent.
HOW MUCH SUGAR IS TOO MUCH SUGAR? The average fizzy drink can contains more sugar than someones entire recommended daily allowance, researchers have discovered. Experts from Queen Mary University, London, found the average carbonated sugar-sweetened soft drink sold in the UK contains 30.1g of sugar per 330ml can more than seven-and-a-half teaspoons. But the Department of Health advises that: over-11s consume no more than 30g of sugar a day; children aged between seven and ten no more than 24g; and four-to-six-year-olds no more than 19g. Advertisement
Muller Corner Trackstars yoghurt is both too big at 135g and too sweet at 13.8 per cent sugar. And Nestle Smarties split pot yoghurt is 18.9 per cent sugar.
Research by The Grocer magazine has identified a list of other well-known products that do not meet the PHE standards.
For example, Skyr Pear Apple & Cinnamon, is too big for a single serving at 150g.
The same applies to Muller Corner Toffee Hoops at 135g; Danone Danio Passion Fruit at 150g; Fage Total Greek Yoghurt at 170g; The Collective Russian Fudge at 150g; Tesco Finest Scottish Raspberry at 150g.
The Oreo Vanilla Yoghurt is too sweet at 17.2 per cent sugar 17.2g per 100g.
The same is true of Muller Corner Toffee Hoops at 18.4 per cent sugar; Danone Danio Passion Fruit at 11.7 per cent; The Collective Russian Fudge at 14.6 per cent; and Tesco Finest Scottish Raspberry at 12.7 per cent.
The Grocer said: 'PHE wants all single-serve yoghurt pots to be capped at 125g and separately is calling for average sugar levels to be cut to 8.8 per cent by 2020.
The body wants to slash the average amount of sugar in yoghurt from 11.05 per cent to 8.8 per cent by 2020. Disney Frozen Strawberry Yogurt Pouches currently contain 10.5 per cent
Petits Filous Raspberry & Strawberry Fromage Frais contain 11.9 per cent sugar
THE 10 WORST OFFENDING YOGHURTS Yoghurt in the dock Pack Sugar (%) Sugar (per pot) Teaspoons Nestle Smarties split pot 120g 18.9 22.68g 5.7 Oreo Vanilla Yoghurt 120g 17.2 20.64g 5.16 Muller Corner Trackstars yoghurt 135g 13.8 18.63g 4.66 Munch Bunch Fromage Frais with Strawberry Puree and Vanilla Flavour 85g 13.4 11.39g 2.85 Strawberry and Raspberry Flavour Yogurt Frubes 70g 13.2 9.24g 2.31 Thomas and Friends Strawberry Fromage Frais with Added Vitamin D 45g 12.0 5.4g 1.35 Petits Filous Raspberry & Strawberry Fromage Frais 85g 11.9 10.12g 2.53 Disney Frozen Strawberry Yogurt Pouches 70g 10.5 7.35g 1.84 Rachel's My First Yoghurt 90g 9.6 8.64g 2.16
'As these bestselling examples show, one way or another yoghurt manufacturers are currently falling short, demonstrating the scale of the changes required if the industry adheres to the proposals.
'The controversial plans could result in hundreds of products being slimmed down or removed from shelves if companies agree.'
Research by The Grocer found 43 per cent of all single-serve yoghurts currently fall foul of the PHE proposals.
Some 382 out of 892 were over 125g. This included 87 per cent of Muller Rice products, 75 per cent of Muller Corner pots, 42 per cent of all Rachel's products and 29 per cent of Yeo Valley yoghurts.
Some 60 per cent of yoghurts in supermarkets 470 out of 670 had too much sugar.
There are concerns that products, such as Thomas and Friends Strawberry Fromage Frais, which contains 12 per cent sugar, will have to undergo a dramatic recipe change
PHE plans to publish a barometer of the top 20 big yoghurt sellers and carry out regular monitoring of single-serve pot sizes.
Families will be able to use this to see which companies and products meet its health standards, so putting commercial pressure on firms to fall into line.
One dairy industry insider told the magazine: 'It's appalling the way PHE has failed to recognise the health benefits of this sector.
'The loser in all this is going to be the consumer because you will see big range reductions.'
PHE has been holding a series of meetings with food industry bosses to set out sugar reduction targets.
One source told PHE bosses that there would be a consumer backlash if yoghurt pots are cut in size.
Strawberry and Raspberry Flavour Yogurt Frubes currently contain 9.24g sugar - 13.2 per cent of their total content
'If the size of pots comes down without price reductions across the board, then consumers will accuse them (the industry) of exploitation,' he said.
The war on yoghurt sizes could be the first of many to come, with portion control emerging as a key weapon set to feature in discussions on biscuits, cakes, chocolates and sweets.
PHE said it has not set any firm targets, but has made a number of proposals to start a conversation with manufacturers on how to reduce sugar levels in the nine groups of food that contribute most to sugar consumption in children.
It said there are three ways to deal with the issue, taking sugar out, reducing portion sizes and encouraging consumer to switch to low sugar alternatives.
CAN YOU RUN UP THE STAIRS?
Yes. Im fitter than Ive ever been. For ten years now, Ive had a personal trainer twice a week for an hour at a time.
He makes me do a lot of high-intensity and strength-building exercises such as planks and sit-ups.
I also cycle everywhere, including the five-mile journey to work. I picked up the habit in the Seventies at the height of the IRA troubles.
Other journalists were stuck in cabs in traffic, and Id beat them to the story because I got there first on my bike.
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Jon Snow (pictured) at the BAFTA Nominees Party in London this year. The Channel 4 news presenter says he has had a personal trainer for the past ten years
GET YOUR FIVE A DAY?
Generally I do.
I have porridge every morning topped with nuts, sultanas and fresh raspberries and blueberries and I snack on fruit to stop my energy from lagging.
ANY VICES?
Any good bakery is a disaster for me. Pastries and crusty soft bread are my biggest weakness.
EVER DIETED?
Ive never really felt the need to watch my weight.
I went to a wedding a few weeks ago and I thought Id try on my wedding suit from when I got married seven years ago and it fitted perfectly.
Im 6 ft 4 and weight around 14 st 5 lbs.
TAKE ANY SUPPLEMENTS?
Lots! I take fish oil for brain function, vitamin D for my joints, vitamin C for my immune system, DHEA (a natural steroid) to improve my memory and turmeric to prevent arthritis and headaches.
I dont know if they make a difference, but I take them every day.
Jon, pictured with his wife Precious Lunga at a private party in London last year. 'I tried on my wedding suit from when I got married seven years ago and it fitted perfectly,' he said
WORST INJURY?
I get knocked off my bike about once every three years. A few months ago someone opened a taxi door into me, but thankfully I just had superficial injuries.
As a child, the worst injury I had was tearing a ligament in my leg when playing rugby.
Because I was very tall in the lineout, I was an obvious target.
ANY FAMILY AILMENTS?
My dad died of a stroke aged 74 and my mother died of Alzheimers at 84. Ive been told theres no genetic reason for me to be concerned.
It was hard seeing my mother decline, you just had to develop patience.
She was an accomplished pianist and she could still play Christmas carols a long way into her illness.
The TV presenter with his award for best new coverage on behalf of Channel 4, which he won this year. He says his mental pain threshold is high, because of the things he sees as a reporter
COPE WELL WITH PAIN?
I think Im pretty good. Certainly my mental pain threshold is high it has to be seeing the things I see as a reporter.
TRIED ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES?
Ive never tried any of them. My wife Precious got me into yoga. I do it to help clear my mind, but I dont do it regularly.
EVER BEEN DEPRESSED?
No. Im a pretty positive person. I always look for the upside of a situation no matter how bleak it may first appear.
HANGOVER CURE?
I dont drink enough to get a hangover. I got hepatitis A (a liver infection) while covering an IRA siege in the Republic of Ireland in the Seventies.
There was a tap leading into a cow trough which we drank from and the water turned out to be contaminated.
Jon, photographed at the Royal Festival Hall, London. He says he does not drink much these days, as he got a liver infection while covering the IRA in the seventies
I was sent to an isolation ward for a week and I couldnt drink for six months afterwards. It lowered my threshold for alcohol.
I only have a glass or two of really cold rose.
WHAT KEEPS YOU AWAKE AT NIGHT?
Nothing, my head only has to come into contact with the pillow and Ill go to sleep.
BIGGEST PHOBIA?
Im marginally claustrophobic, I have a nightmare of being the first journalist selected to go into space.
LIKE TO LIVE FOR EVER?
It would depend on my health. Definitely not if Id lost my wits and I couldnt get around.
Jon Snow supports the charity Beanstalk, which provides one-to-one literacy support to children struggling with their reading.
Ask Colin Greaves to think back to his wedding day or his first kiss, and all he can see is a blank screen.
The same thing happens when he tries to picture his wife or childrens faces, or his last holiday. Its just an empty black space, says Colin, 53, a psychologist from Bath.
Thats because Colin, a married father-of-two, cannot visualise things in his brain: his minds eye is essentially blind.
The minds eye allows us to form mental images in our brain for instance, being able to visualise what the McDonalds arches look like or remembering someones face when youre away from them.
Ask Colin Greaves (pictured) to think back to his wedding day or his first kiss, and all he can see is a blank screen. Its just an empty black space, says Colin, 53, a psychologist from Bath
According to experts around 2 per cent of the population lack this ability, a problem that was recently given a name aphantasia (from the Greek words a, meaning without, and phantasia, the capacity to form images).
The condition was first identified last year by neurologists at the University of Exeter and since then, a number of large studies across Britain have looked at why people lack this ability and what implications it may have on their wellbeing.
Some experts suggest it could affect learning, navigation and memory, as the ability to create mental images is important in helping us use these skills.
Studies have suggested the ability to visualise uses some of the same brain pathways we use when seeing through our eyes the difference is that the minds eye circuitry is also connected to the areas that control memory as this is what we call upon to activate the mental image.
The exact mechanism for creating mental images is not completely clear, explains Adam Zeman, a professor of cognitive and behavioural neurology at the University of Exeter: But we do know that if I tell you to imagine an apple, you have to decide to do that and this means the voluntary decision-making brain areas the parietal and frontal lobes are activated.
A command is then sent from there to the temporal and occipital lobes, which are normally activated when you see something.
'The memory areas are also activated because we have to draw on visual memory to develop this mental image.
Aphantasia is caused by a failure somewhere in this network.
Over the years there have been sporadic reports in scientific journals about this condition, but it was only properly identified recently.
According to experts around 2 per cent of the population lack the ability to visualise things, a problem that was recently given a name aphantasia
The story of aphantasia started in 2010 when Professor Zeman published a medical report about a 65-year-old man who had come to see him complaining he could no longer visualise relatives faces or create images in his brain as he read books.
The man had been able to do this until a procedure to treat a narrowed coronary artery.
Doctors suggested he had experienced subtle brain injury, such as a mild stroke, which led to aphantasia.
After he published his research coining the term aphantasia, Professor Zeman was inundated by messages from thousands of people who said they too couldnt visualise anything and he set about studying the problem in a project involving several thousand people affected.
He used scans to monitor their brain activity when they were trying to visualise, as well as the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire, where people are asked to imagine things such as a sunset or a friend and then rate the vividness from one to five.
Colin says he doesn't feel aphantasia affects his life too much. According to experts, most people dont even know they have it
Those who score the lowest are thought to have aphantasia.
Preliminary results of his study published last year showed the causes varied some people were born without this capacity (Professor Zeman says many reported they had close relatives who were affected so there may be a genetic basis); others developed it later.
Some people with aphantasia describe symptoms of autism.
Other scientists who have analysed the patient case histories suggest some cases may stem from brain injuries or other trauma.
Aphantasia may also be the result of psychological or neurological problems, such as depression or chronic anxiety.
Writing in the journal Cortex last year, the researchers, from the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research, suggested that people with aphantasia should undergo brain scans and assessments such as those used for mental health problems.
Eleanor Maguire, a professor of cognitive neuroscience at University College London, is looking at how a lack of mental imagery is linked to memory.
We believe differences in imagery are important enough to investigate, as imagery may have important implications for psychology and memory, she says.
Most people dont even know theyre missing this vital brain function.
Colin only realised he had this internal blindness when he was in his 30s and talking to a friend who went into a lengthy description of how something worked I was completely lost.
Colin Greaves believes his brain does actually have the ability to visualise as he dreams normally, sometimes vividly
In some ways it doesnt worry him: I dont feel it really affects my life too much, although it is quite sad I cant bring to mind my childrens faces or memories of childhood holidays.
'But at least I have photos to look at and these are very important to me.
He believes his brain does actually have the ability to visualise as he dreams normally, sometimes vividly.
When I am awake there is something in my mind which inhibits this ability. It feels like a physical block.
If that could be lifted in some way with training, I would love that. In the meantime, I have to make do with my dreams.
A Maryland state lawmaker is pushing for a state ethics charge against the superintendent of the Baltimore County school district after he retweeted a call for schools to protect non-white students the day after the election.
As headlines began piling up around the country about harassment of students in schools and immigrant students fears of deportation following the election of Donald Trump, Superintendent Dallas Dance retweeted this advice from Joshua Starr, CEO of Phi Delta Kappa International and the former superintendent of the Montgomery County, Md., schools.
Educators: tomorrow pls show your muslim, black, latino, jewish, disabled, or just non-white Sts, that you love them and will protect them! -- Josh Starr (@JoshuaPStarr) November 9, 2016
Parents and members of the public responded, calling the message racist and propaganda. The next day, Dance also tweeted this Education Week article about the school climate challenges educators faced the day after the election.
The Election Is Over, But for Teachers, Hard Conversations Are Just Beginning //t.co/aDogJCDjEd via @educationweek -- S. Dallas Dance (@DDance_BCPS) November 10, 2016
In response to the Starr retweet, Maryland Del. Pat McDonough said he is calling for an ethics charge against Dance, ABC affiliate WMAR reports. McDonough explained his intent in a statement.
Superintendent Dance implied that the President Elect is racist and guilty of all the slanderous attacks made by the national media. That is a partisan political position that does not allow for opposing viewpoints. By exercising bias against white students, Dance has violated his contract with Baltimore County and his trust with its citizens. "Would Superintendent Dance ask for special treatment for white students if Hillary Clinton had won the presidency after referring to some of their parents as "irredeemable deplorables?"
Dance shared this post last week in response to the controversy.
As the Superintendent of one of the largest most diverse school systems in our country, I always lead from an equity lens with an intense focus on all student populations and ensuring they feel welcome and supported. Education is not void of politics and during the last two years, our country has had one of the most divisive campaigns in modern history. Comments were made that disenfranchised several groups of students we serve in Baltimore County Public Schools. As our nation moves forward, it is our collective responsibility to make sure all students feel safe and know we are their advocates. As I continue leading our school system and as a member of several educational organizations, my continued focus is to work with local, state and national government representatives to move public education forward for all students." A photo posted by S Dallas Dance (@ddance06) on Nov 11, 2016 at 3:56am PST
Related reading on the election, Donald Trump, and school climate:
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My daughter, 45, is very ill with what could be Lyme disease. Shes been told it can be diagnosed only in Germany.
Could she travel there under the NHS, or will we have to pay 2,000?
She remembers being bitten by a tick in 2005.
She has been taking antibiotics, bought on the internet, and has been referred to a chronic fatigue clinic. Can you advise?
Howard England, Basildon, Essex.
Lyme disease is an infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria, which can be transmitted to humans via a tick bite
How worrying for you. Lyme disease is a complex subject and there is a wealth of misinformation about it.
Lyme disease is an infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria, which can be transmitted to humans via a tick bite (though being bitten by an infected tick does not necessarily mean you will become infected).
The infection has three phases. The early, localised stage is where there is a characteristic skin rash known as erythema migrans a red circle resembling a bullseye that gradually gets bigger.
In most cases, if a patient is known to have had a tick bite, Lyme disease can be diagnosed at this early stage based on the symptoms alone.
If the disease is not treated, the second phase, called early disseminated, may follow weeks or months later.
This involves multiple skin lesions several of these bullseye circles or a widespread rash.
The phase after that, which can occur months or even years later, is known as late Lyme disease. This is when the bacteria have spread to other organs.
Symptoms can include arthritis and neurological problems such as tingling, numbness, headaches and weakness.
There may also be paralysis of the facial muscles or complications involving the heart.
For most patients, in any of these phases antibiotics are effective at eliminating symptoms and preventing complications.
But some people may have headache, fatigue and aches and pains that do not resolve immediately with treatment and which can develop after treatment has finished this is known as post-Lyme disease syndrome.
In most cases, if a patient is known to have had a tick bite, Lyme disease can be diagnosed at this early stage based on the symptoms alone
However, the symptoms should gradually clear over a few months without further antibiotics. Whats needed instead is skilled medical support.
As a GP, I have come across patients with fatigue, vague muscle or joint pains, tingling or weakness, who have been diagnosed by someone else with chronic Lyme disease.
This is a term some people use to describe persistent symptoms such as these, usually when there is no confirmed infection.
But this is a controversial diagnosis and there is disagreement among experts over whether this condition exists.
The patients I have seen have usually turned out to have fibromyalgia not an illness due to infection or inflammation, but thought to be related to changes in the way the central nervous system processes pain messages.
There is no specific test or scan to diagnose fibromyalgia.
However, with Lyme disease there are tests we can do at any of the three phases, though they can neither definitively prove nor exclude it. They are merely an aid to diagnosis.
Lyme disease has three phases. The early stage is where there is a characteristic skin rash known as erythema migrans a red circle resembling a bullseye that gradually gets bigger
The standard approach is a two-tier test on a blood sample to look for antibodies to the disease.
The first step is an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (known as ELISA).
If the ELISA is negative, no further tests are needed. But if it is positive, the same sample is tested by a Western blot test.
One problem is that 5 per cent of healthy people will have a positive ELISA result even if they dont have any symptoms.
If there is also a positive Western blot test, all this proves is that a patient has seen Borrelia burgdorferi at some stage.
Having antibodies in the bloodstream does not prove the patient has the illness any more than chicken pox antibodies in my blood prove I have chicken pox now.
Write to Dr Scurr To contact Dr Scurr with a health query, write to him at Good Health Daily Mail, 2 Derry Street, London W8 5TT or email drmartin@dailymail.co.uk - including contact details. Dr Scurr cannot enter into personal correspondence. His replies cannot apply to individual cases and should be taken in a general context. Always consult your own GP with any health worries. Advertisement
Blood tests can only be interpreted in the correct setting. The diagnosis of Lyme disease also depends on a patient having known symptoms of the disease.
As you are aware, some doctors do not believe current lab testing is sensitive enough.
Independent laboratories abroad offer other types of tests though the NHS does not accept the results.
You may be referring to the immunoblot test offered in Germany. A blood sample can be sent by post, so theres no reason why it should command a high fee.
Without knowing the details of your daughters symptoms, it is difficult for me to give an informed decision about how to proceed.
I do have concerns about prescription drugs bought online as there is no quality control and you cant be sure they contain the active ingredient or are even safe.
But my key point remains: the diagnosis is not just as simple as a blood test. The context in terms of symptoms is most important.
My testicles have really enlarged.
Is this normal in a man of my age (82)? I had a vasectomy in my early 40s.
Could this be a cause? Im still grieving for my wife, who died last year after 59 years of marriage.
Name and address supplied.
A reader has contacted Dr Scurr about his enlarged testicles, and wonders if the cause could be the loss of his wife, as they were married for 59 years and he is still grieving
Im sorry you have had this added concern at such a sad time, but I hope I can reassure you the swellings, known as hydrocoeles, are not sinister or uncommon.
You can confirm the diagnosis using a small torch but choose the kind that uses light-emitting diodes or LEDs, rather than old-fashioned lightbulbs, because these will not burn you.
In a darkened room, apply the torch directly to the swelling.
If the entire lump glows brightly known as transillumination this proves the swelling contains fluid, the hallmark of a hydrocoele.
(If the swelling is solid, it will not transilluminate and it would be advisable to see a GP for a referral to a urologist, but this is unlikely.)
A hydrocoele forms when there is a gradual build-up of fluid in the membrane (the tunica vaginalis) that surrounds the testicle.
This membrane is a continuation of the peritoneum, the thin layer of tissue lining the abdomen.
You can diagnose hydrocoeles using a small torch but choose the kind that uses light-emitting diodes or LEDs, rather than old-fashioned lightbulbs, because these will not burn you
Babies are often born with hydrocoeles that disappear in the first few months of life.
Why the fluid should accumulate in a man of your age is not clear, but it is unlikely to be due to your vasectomy, and is common with age.
When a hydrocoele occurs in much younger men, we have concerns about whether it might be testicular cancer.
In older people with hydrocoeles in both testicles, this is very unlikely.
In the past, GPs or surgeons would drain hydrocoeles in adults. But the fluid invariably comes back, so this is no longer common practice.
Hydrocoeles need treatment only if they are uncomfortable or inconvenient.
A two-year-old girl was kidnapped from a village in Punjab by three men and strangled to death as she didnt stop crying, police said.
The three men accused of the crime have been arrested and the toddler's charred body has been recovered, investigating officers revealed on Sunday.
Roshni was allegedly kidnapped from her stroller in Khothran, near Phagwara, by three men with muffled faces on Friday when her grandfather, Ran Dares Singh, was walking in front of their house in the village's Saffron Enclave.
Police in Punjab have arrested three men in connection with the kidnapping and killing
The trio was arrested at a police check post when they were coming on a motorcycle from Munna village side. They tried to flee but were overpowered, said police.
Police said those arrested have been identified as Goel Kumar alias Gori, Harman Kumar alias Happy, and Rishi.
It's alleged that they confessed that the girl, who was taken to the village Nadalon from Khothran, was strangled on the same day as she did not stop crying.
They also admitted that they had burnt her body on paddy straw to eliminate any evidence, police said.
In presence of Duty Magistrate Bhupinder Singh, Tehsildar Garhshanker, police recovered the girls charred body on Sunday near Khothran village.
She was kidnapped for purpose of a ransom, it's claimed.
Police said IPC Sections 302 (murder), 364-A (kidnapping for ransom, etc), 201 (causing disappearance of evidence of offence), 120-B (criminal conspiracy) and 34 (acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) were added to the case.
In her first direct communication since being hospitalised in September, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa has said she has been reborn because of peoples prayers and urged them to vote for the AIADMK in the November 19 polls.
"I have taken rebirth because of your prayers and worship. I would like to share this happy news with you in the first place, she said in a statement released by the AIADMK.
Stating that she does not have any grievances in view of peoples great love for her, she said, by Gods grace, very soon, by recovering fully, I am waiting to resume work.
In her first direct communication since being hospitalised in September, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa has said she has been reborn because of peoples prayers urging them to vote AIADMK
Exhorting party workers, she asked them to work in full swing for the victory of AIADMK in the November 19 polls for Aravakkurichi, Thanjavur and Thirupparankundram constituencies in Tamil Nadu and Nellithope Assembly segment in Puducherry.
Amma's followers are touching fanatical heights praying for her recovery
Though she could not directly meet cadres and functionaries working in these constituencies and the general public, my heart and thoughts are with you always, she told them.
Without elaborating, she asked party workers to understand the nature of this statement and work with a sense of duty for making MGRs winning symbol of two leaves bag a huge victory.
She said cadres should work for the victory of AIADMK nominees by a huge margin of votes.
Jayalalithaa said the cadres should consider the partys victory as a victory for each one of them.
Quoting a lyric from an MGR era song, she said AIADMKs victory should resound in all the directions. I am eagerly waiting for news of such victory. The chief minister had been in hospital since September 22.
Trump takes in a tour of the White House
Those who believe America has a credible democratic electoral system need to rethink their position.
The point is not that a system that elects Trump is a travesty, but that the system itself is archaic and absurd.
In the Constitution of 1789, Article II created a collegium with a votevalue equal to the elected members in Congress (Senate and Representatives) of a state.
The votes of each state collegium were counted in proportion to the whole. It was State law that was to decide the manner and process of the election.
Disenfranchisement
Of course, the Supreme Court did monitor and strike down extended residence requirements (Dunns case 1972), allowing in two later cases of 1973 a 20-day residence period.
Again in Carrington (1975) the Supreme Court struck down Texas provisions against soldiers voting.
But the Supreme Court did not strike down literacy requirements (Guinn (1915), Lassiter (1959)).
Disenfranchisement due to inability to interpret the Constitution was also struck down (Davis (1949)).
The US Civil Rights Acts (1957-60) was upheld in Katzenbach (1966). The point was that elections including those of the President were in the hands of the States.
The most startling example of the failure of the system was Bush v Gore (2000) when Bush had an edge of 527 votes.
There was a final date for results to be declared, but it was clear that Gore would have won if all legitimate votes were counted.
Presidential electoral democracy was thwarted because the State controlled the elections.
A biased Supreme Court used this excuse to declare that Bush won. The dissents of Ginsburg and Stevens in the Supreme Court speak volumes, and exposes all that is rotten in Americas system of Presidential elections.
U.S. President Barack Obama shakes hands President-elect Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House
But look at the process as it has evolved: elections with fanfare for the Republic and Democratic party nominees (takes over a year).
Then another four months till the selection between party nominees. The States follow different systems. Some follow "winner takes all".
So theoretically a higher vote of 49% vote would triumph over a 48% loser, making the entire 48% vote of that candidate irrelevant to the final result.
Some states take into account the popular votes. Some distribute the vote to the county or district.
What an absolutely, disjointed, absurd farce.
Clinton had won the popular vote with 47.64 per cent vote (59,132,664 total votes against Trump, who had 47.54 per cent vote-share (59,007,205 total votes) but lost the electoral college by 218 against 276.
This shows systemic failure.
The attack on her began from her own competing colleague in the Democratic Party (Bernie Sanders) who called her a liar and trickster raising the question of her official mails from the Clinton Foundations server.
Trump's stupidity, cluelessness and bawdiness touched people who found he spoke the common language of many Americans with ineffable charm
Caricature
Trump picked on this even though just before the election ended, the CBI cleared Hillary in this regard.
This attack, Tricky Hillary, came to stick. And she huffed and she puffed but this charge did not come crashing down.
But she had one advantage: she had policies on health, foreign affairs, antiracism, pro-women and children, supporting homosexuality and the disadvantaged and a liberal grant of citizenship to those in America and those entitled to come in.
She was steadfast in the election on these issues. But there was something in her overgrown smile, and academic approach which did not connect with audiences including her own supporters who were fuelled by their enthusiasm.
Trump was a joker to be laughed at: his utter lack of experience, bawdy remarks about touching womens bottoms, cluelessness on policies and programmes.
But yet his stupidity, cluelessness and bawdiness touched people who found he spoke the common language of many Americans with ineffable charm.
Obviously, a large number of Americans like these sort of things.
His only declared policy was to make a wall to keep Mexicans out, from his own money and to end terrorism by targeting all Muslims.
He was a real life caricature, discarded by some prominent members of his own party.
World's apart: Trump and Clinton debate America's future
Propaganda
Americans have a way of propagating that what was terrible was really good, even a triumph of democracy.
Till the eve of the elections, it was thought that the elections were meaningless and the worst ever.
After the election, the result was proclaimed as the triumph of American democracy which allowed those outside mainstream parties to win the crown.
Trump was now a hero.
He had appealed to the blue collar workers who took to his brief on immigrants, increasing jobs by bringing back out-sourcing and propagating religion based racism.
Was, this a triumph of democracy and the will of the people? Hardly.
Hillary had won, albeit barely, the popular vote but lost the collegiate vote.
The entire collegium system foolishly allowed each State in America to follow its own inconsistent methods of democracy.
Winner-takes-all does not reflect democracy. It converts a closely contested vote for the loser to be reduced to zero in the final counting.
The triumph of populism by undemocratic machinery is the negation of democracy.
Thousands of anti-Donald Trump protesters, including many pro-immigrant groups, hold a demonstration outside of a Trump property as New Yorkers react to the election of Donald Trump as President of the United States
We are witness to the rise of authoritarianism. Trump, Putin, the dictators of the South and South East, the RSS supported Narendra Modi, and the fascist national parties in England and Europe.
Israels militarized democracy is fascist to the core.
The Spring revolutions of the Middle East have surrendered their cause.
Where are we heading? To Trumpistan, the new, dystopian reality.
Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh has vowed to protect every last drop of the states water
Hitting out at the Badal government over the Supreme Courts ruling on the Sutlej-Yamuna Link issue, Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh today vowed to protect every last drop of the states water.
Addressing a rally at Khuian Sarwar village near Abohar, the tail-end of Sutlej Yamuna Link (SYL) Canal, he asked SAD MLAs to quit the assembly and said the state polls should be held next month itself to prevent Chief Minister Prakash Singh Badal from further violating the atmosphere of the state.
He vowed to protect the last drop of Punjabs water, and declared not a drop will be spared till their last breath.
On the Chief Minister's assertion that he (Badal) is ready to face the bullet in order to protect Punjab's water, Amarinder alleged that in 1984, Badal had made such claims but when the time came to fight for the state he went into hiding, leaving the people to fend for themselves.
He also alleged that the Chief Minister has destroyed the state out of sheer personal greed and cannot be allowed to remain in power.
Asserting that implementation of the SYL verdict will finish off the 2 lakh families and 2 lakh agricultural labourers who farm 10 lakh acres of land in the state, Amarinder alleged that SAD had 10 years to battle the case in the court effectively but failed to do anything.
The dried-up riverbed of the Sutlej-Yamuna Link canal. The Supreme Court says Punjab has no right to unilaterally terminate water-sharing agreements over over the Satluj-Yamuna Link Canal with neighbouring states.
He added that they (SAD) were only interested in creation of Punjabi Suba in order to rule a Sikh-dominated region for their vested interests and asked why did Badal not tell the court that Punjab had no water to spare, with all the glaciers having melted, the state Congress chief asked and reiterated his demand for the establishment of a new tribunal to assess the quantum of water available with the state.
Referring to the controversial Clause 5 of the Punjab Termination of Agreements Act, Amarinder alleged Badal is misleading the state on the issue by making fraudulent claims on scrapping it.
The Captain accused Badal of playing with the sentiments of the people and alleged that removal of the clause would not be acceptable to the BJP-led Central government, of which SAD is a part.
Karnataka is 17 months away from facing its next assembly polls and the BJP is quietly mobilising support at the grassroots level for its campaign, Congress-free Karnataka.
Led by former CM BS Yeddyurappa, the BJP believes that this unique campaign over the next few months will help the party in consolidating its votes as well as making inroads into the Congress bastions.
Yeddyurappa, who has been absolved from the majority of the corruption cases filed against him, feels that the BJPs prospects of returning to power are strong.
Former CM BS Yeddyurappa is leading the Congress-free Campaign in Karnataka
The campaign will be intensified from January when Yeddyurappa tours Karnataka.
The Congress government has its own share of problems and these have become rallying points for the BJP leaders.
Yeddyurappa makes it a point in every public speech to corner and humiliate Congress leaders.
He has been drumming up support from within the party to make the campaign effective in order to regain lost ground, especially in coastal and north Karnataka regions.
The principal objectives of the campaign include reviving the Hindutva agenda to gain public sympathy.
It 'may be too late for' Siddaramaiah to react if he ignores the BJP campaign in the run up to the state going to the polls
Members of the BJP and its affiliates, including the RSS, Bajrang Dal, and VHP, have been instructed to invoke issues affecting the majority.
Embedded in the Hindutva agenda is the support for the party cadre. Any attacks or assaults on member organisations are being glorified, particularly in strongholds.
The latest incident, wherein a Bajrang Dal leader alleged a petrol bomb attack on his car by miscreants in the Kodagu district on Monday, is likely to remain in news for a week at least, as the party leaders want to make an issue out of it.
Such incidents have been on the rise in the past 10 months, with the BJP seizing every opportunity to politicise the issue.
Congress is yet to find a suitable replacement for Home Minister G Parameshwara, who also happens to be the president of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC)
Last week, it was the controversial birth anniversary celebrations of Tipu Sultan. Last month, it was the murder of party cadre R Rudresh that kept the BJP leadership busy.
The murder, followed by the political fallout, prompted the police to impose prohibitory orders in Bengaluru, once again attracting the nations attention.
The BJP is alleging that political violence against its cadre has increased in the past 18 months. The party intends to make this issue its poll plank.
While investigation by the police into these attacks is still on, the BJP has shortlisted six deaths of its workers to be highlighted in its public meetings and party forums.
Senior BJP leaders say that the Congress-free Karnataka campaign aims to bring the pitfalls of the ruling Congress involving Hindutva issues to the public domain.
Many of them say that the BJP should maintain the momentum throughout 2017 to reach its goal.
Yeddyurappa has enlisted the support of younger leaders in the party to ensure that the momentum is maintained by picking on incidents that are not in the limelight.
It will be interesting to see how Siddaramaiah counters this campaign over the next two years.
The chief minister has been dismissing such campaigns as daydreams of the BJP, but it is a fact that the campaign will impact the Congress during the elections.
The Congress is already facing it share of trouble, including rebellion within the party, ministers getting caught in scams or on the wrong side of the law.
Siddaramaiahs hands are full, managing the government and the party affairs.
Congress insiders feel that it will be too late for Siddaramaiah to react if he ignores the BJPs campaign now. But first, the Congress has to set its house in order.
The party is yet to find a suitable replacement for Home Minister G Parameshwara, who also happens to be the president of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC).
Unless the KPCC gets a new leader who can focus on countering the BJP politically, Siddaramaiah alone cannot take on Yeddyurappa.
Kannada film industry's credibility at stake
The death of two wellknown Kannada film actors during the filming of movie Mastigudi near Bengaluru, brought to the fore the poor safety measures and standards adopted by filmmakers.
Anil Verma, 31, and Raghav Uday, 38,drowned after leaping from a helicopter while shooting the climax to the action film last week.
While the stuntmen and doubles dont even have basic insurance cover, the film industry has done little to enforce safety measures.
Anil Verma, 31, and Raghav Uday, 38, both drowned during the stunt. A criminal investigation has opened following their deaths
Body injuries and threat to life have become occupational hazards for stuntmen, and the credibility of the Kannada film industry is at stake with the Karnataka Film Chambers of Commerce (KFCC) is promising to clean the system.
What happened to Uday and Anil because of the alleged negligence of the filmmakers is unpardonable.
Mastigudi, which featured actors Kriti Kharbanda, Amulya, and Duniya Vijay, was in its last phase of shooting.
Anil Verma taking a photo with Raghav Uday stood in the background moments before the stunt which cost both of them their lives
The action sequence was directed by Ravi Verma, who has also executed action scenes for Shah Rukh Khans Raees and Rock On 2.
It is alleged that Ravi Verma pocketed Rs 3 lakh to ensure adequate safety for the film shooting sequence.
But when the two actors, who barely knew how to swim, jumped into the TG Halli reservoir from a chopper, the boat which was supposed to pick them failed to start.
The two were seen jumping from the helicopter in a stunt which was to prove tragic
While the boatman struggled to start the engine, the actors drowned in front of the media, which was invited to cover the record-attempting sequence.
Actors close to the action master admitted that Ravi Verma had become overconfident. Did this behaviour change cost the lives of the two actors? Only the police probe will establish the truth.
Both Uday and Anil were known for their negative roles in Kannada movies. The fate of Mastigudi, one of the most-talked-about Kannada movies, is unknown.
Green activists take centre stage
Conservationists have again taken over the Karnataka governments job, as the bureaucrats seem to show little interest in protecting the ecologically-sensitive Western Ghats, one of the best habitats for tigers.
Instead of handing over the forest land to the Karnataka government, the Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Ltd (KIOCL), which stopped mining in the Western Ghats in 2005, tried to set up a resort, invoking the wrath of conservationists and courts.
The conservationists, led by Wildlife First, referred the matter to the High Court of Karnataka, which noted KIOCL had no authority to retain possession of the land, as the mining lease had expired.
Controversy surrounds Kudremukh National Park and the possession of the land
The government has now woken up and initiated the process to take possession of the land.
Tiger expert and wildlife biologist Ullas Karanth had objected to the setting up of the resort.
In October 2002, the Supreme Court directed KIOCL to wind up operations and quit the area (Kudremukh National Park - KNP) within three years.
But KIOCL continued to squat. The government continued to ignore taking possession of the forest land from the KIOCL, which in turn partnered with a private company to develop a resort on 281 acres in the KNP.
Tea sellers, vegetable vendors and neighbourhood grocery stores are among those in India unzipping their e-wallets as the country struggles to cope with 86 per cent of its total currency in circulation being swept away by demonitisation.
Hundreds of small vendors and businesses have switched to mobile and online payment services that are expected to more than double their annual growth after the government banned Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes to crackdown on black money.
While a number of payment gateways, such as Paytm and Freecharge, are already in big demand, wholesale retailer Metro Cash & Carry is working on tying up with digital wallets to offer payment options to small traders and kirana shop owners.
Hundreds of small vendors and businesses have switched to mobile and online payment services that are now expected to more than double their annual growth
Nandu Gupta from Saharsa in Bihar, who runs a tea stall in Noidas Sector 16-A, has prominently displayed his phone number for customers to pay through e-wallets.
I have nothing to hide, he said. What I accepted in notes can now be paid online. All the more, I dont have to deal with hassles of loose change. I wish my wholesaler can accept the same way. He has flatly refused and I am looking for another.
The demand is being fuelled by the fact that India is one of the fastest-growing markets for smartphones in the world and is expected to become the second largest market by next year, replacing the United States.
The BJP-led government is promoting the use of mobile payment systems following the decision to take Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes out of circulation
Bela Jain, a resident of the Rajendra Nagar colony in central Delhi, paid her istriwala (presser) online on Monday.
I found it very strange when he asked me to pay him through Paytm. Thanks to him I had to download the app, but which I now am using for many purposes, she said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made financial inclusion one of his highest priorities, particularly in the countryside.
To jump start the effort, the BJP-led government is promoting the use of mobile payment systems.
People have been queuing for hours to exchange their now defunct notes for new currency, and businesses have been struggling to cope with the reduction in money in circulation
Laxman Kachi, a tea seller, has also started using an e-wallet to cope with the lack of currency in circulation in India.
Two days ago, one of my customer told me about an e-wallet service and advised me on its usage. He helped me to download the app and later helped me to register as a merchant, said Kachi.
He has been able to mop up Rs 700 using the digital wallet service.
In order to beat the acute cash crush, even doctors are accepting consultation fees through mobile payment, though reports are mixed about their enthusiasm for such transactions.
Many, therefore, gave consultations for the fee to be paid at a later date when new currency notes would be readily available.
Doctors also told Mail Today that patients at OPDs across several private hospitals too had taken a hit. But, to help the patients, doctors have started accepting payments via online options.
Patients do not have enough cash to pay consultation fees. We are accepting payments through Paytm, cheque as well as Real-Time Gross Settlement Systems (RTGs) and other online transaction systems. We are not taking money from those who do not have any means to pay, and they can give it later, said Dr Vikas Maurya, senior pulmonologist at west Delhis BLK Super Speciality Hospital.
A volunteer offers tea to people queuing up at an ATM outside a bank
The father of a patient at the Capitals Sir Ganga Ram Hospital paid his sons consultation fee with digital money.
I didnt have enough cash and my son needed urgent treatment. Therefore, I paid the money on Paytm, said Nand Kumar from Faridabad, who had come to the hospital after his six-year-old sons fractured arm.
Grocery shops and milk booths have gone cashless, too.
Mother Dairy booths are using digital payment services to avoid the hassle of providing loose change.
People come to us with Rs 500 notes. It was getting very difficult to return change so we started accepting e-wallets, said a Mother Dairy booth manager in east Delhis Patparganj area.
Even parking facilities at tony malls in areas such as Vasant Kunj, Saket and even Noida and Ghaziabad have started accepting plastic money.
While the nations nascent digital economy has received a big push from India's currency crisis, experts have warned that cyber criminals too have sensed an opportunity.
As the volume of online transactions soars, concern over increases in credit and debit card cloning has also gone up.
India has already witnessed a steep rise in financial frauds over the past few years, and with more users and high-value transactions, such attacks on payment gateways and digital crime are bound to escalate, experts have said.
Experts warn online fraudsters have now got huge opportunities to take advantage of India's rush to use digital money platforms
Deep Shankar, a cyber crime expert who works with the state police in cyber investigation, said: As there is a currency crisis, people are using their credit/debit cards at every possible place, but most are not aware of what to check before making online payments and what details they need to keep secret.
"A large section of technologically unaware people are now forced to use technology which will be misused by cyber crooks."
Another cyber expert, Kislay Choudhary, has already noticed a spurt in financial fraud. He said that so far, only the educated and technologically sound section of the populace was using digital modes of payment.
With people having to queue for hours at banks and businesses unable to give change or take money, India is fast turning to mobile and online transaction platforms
But due to demonetisation, the poorer and rural sections have been forced to do online transactions, putting them at greater risk.
Many fake bank links promoting currency exchange are doing the rounds on social media. There are a couple of mobile wallets available for free download which are not secure, and even some malicious apps can track the moves a user makes, Choudhary said.
Even the police believe that the intensity of cyber attacks and the number of financial frauds targeting new users will shoot up.
In frantic scenes across India, people have struggled to exchange their Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, which Modi's government has banned to crackdown on black money
This is a transition phase where lots of new users will turn towards digital transactions. Cyber criminals will create fake websites, clone cards and create malicious apps to steal money, Triveni Singh, a cyber crime investigator and additional superintendent of police with the Uttar Pradesh special task force, told Mail Today.
According to a study by ASSOCHAM-RNCOS, the digital payment sector might register unprecedented rise.
It says that the volume of digital transaction in India is likely to witness an exponential compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 90 per cent to reach 153 billion by 2022 as against three billion in 2016.
Cyber investigators say that high awareness is required as India is marching towards plastic money.
Even small vendors such as tea sellers are embracing digital technology to cope with the cash crisis
Prashant Mali, a cyber security expert, said: Since cash holdings in bank accounts have grown manifold, it is likely that criminals would attempt to siphon them off at one go.
"Multiple mobile applications having digital wallet details are a cause for worry too. There are many rogue apps which pose a huge threat to digital transactions through mobiles."
At present, the mobile banking segment contributes the largest share of 49 per cent in the Indian mobile payment market with over 386 million transactions worth Rs 4,000 billion in 2016.
But experts and police believe that the intensity of cyber attacks and the number of financial frauds targeting new users will shoot up
With demonetisation, digital payment platforms have seen a huge surge in transactions as well as downloads in the last few days.
Acknowledging the threat their new customers possess, leading companies claim to have high-tech security features in compliance with RBI guidelines.
FreeCharge has various security features built into its wallet, which makes them extremely secure. Its usage is growing by leaps and bounds and given that lakhs of new users are joining in recent days, we are taking steps to create awareness for convenient and safe usage, said a FreeCharge spokesperson.
A senior lawyer appointed to assist the Supreme Court in the 2012 Nirbhaya fatal gangrape case has urged the judges not to send the four death row convicts to the gallows, saying they are too young to be hanged.
The SC is hearing the appeals of Mukesh,24, Pawan, 20, Vinay, 22 and Akshay, 29, challenging the punishment handed down by the trial court and confirmed by the Delhi High Court for a crime that shook the country, stirred global outrage and brought focus on Indias attitudes towards and treatment of women.
In written submissions, amicus curiae (an impartial adviser) Raju Ramachandran pointed out that the apex court had held in the famous 1980 Bachan Singh case that a balance sheet of mitigating and aggravating circumstances have to be drawn before sentencing a person to death.
Raju Ramachandran was appointed by Supreme Court as an impartial adviser in the case
He contended that the young age of the convicts, the fact that they had no criminal antecedents and how the crime was not pre-meditated were mitigating factors in their favour.
Ramachandran, a known anti-death penalty activist who had earlier represented 26/11 death convict Ajmal Kasab and Mumbai blast convict Yakub Memon in the Supreme Court, also contended that the four men should be given a last chance to reform.
The crime was not premeditated, he said. There is no evidence on record to deem the rape and murder was a pre-planned act.
"The accused did not know victim and had any occasion to believe she would be present at the relevant spot on the fateful day.
"Trial court failed to even consider this factor which has been treated as a mitigating factor.
In 2012, five adult men and a juvenile lured the 23-year-old trainee physiotherapist and her male friend onto a bus in Delhi, where they repeatedly raped the woman and beat both with a metal bar before dumping them on a road.
The woman, later dubbed Nirbhaya (meaning fearless), died two weeks later of her injuries.
Four of the adults were sentenced to death while the fifth hanged himself in prison.
On August 31, 2013, the juvenile was convicted and sentenced to three years in a reformation home. He was released in December last year.
In 2012, five adult men and a juvenile gang-raped a 23-year-old physiotherapist in a bus in Delhi. Four of the adults were sentenced to death while the fifth hanged himself
Arguing that the convicts had no criminal antecedent and so should be granted a chance to reform, Ramachandran said both the trial court and high court ruled out the possibility of reform and rehabilitation solely on grounds the crime was brutal.
He pointed out to the court that the sole evidence relied on by both the trial court and HC to demonstrate criminal antecedent was the robbery of a carpenter the convicts had committed, for which they have been sentenced to 10 years.
He said the FIR filed in that case after a long delay was not convincing and an appeal filed by the convicts is also pending.
Hedge fund numbers are set to drop this year as investors plough cash into cheaper and more predictable alternatives.
A study by Singapore firm Eurekahedge revealed that fund closures around the world were on track to outpace openings for the first time in more than 16 years.
It said 566 had been shuttered in the first nine months of the year, compared to 518 start-ups.
Withdrawl: 566 hedge funds were shuttered in the first nine months of the year, compared to 518 start-ups
Hedge funds, which hold billions of UK investors' cash, have seen the highest levels of investors taking their cash out since the global financial crisis in 2008.
The company put it down to rising complaints about high fees and poor performance.
Head analyst Mohammad Hassan said: 'Performance is the main issue that's putting a lot of pressure on existing hedge funds.
'Many are below their high water marks and are struggling to make money and cover costs.'
The average fund has earned 2.9 per cent so far this year, after returning 1.7 per cent in 2015.
Many of those which finished last year in the red have still not made back their losses.
Hassan said investors were increasingly turning to cheaper automatic trading firms run by computer algorithms as they sought better value for money.
Hedge fund manager Crispin Odey saw assets at his flagship fund shrink by 60%
Meanwhile, tougher regulations have chipped away at many funds' profitability.
US hedge fund Perry Capital closed the doors on its flagship fund in September after 28 years of investing.
The fund ran around 12billion of investors' money at its peak in 2007, but by this year that had fallen to 3.2billion. The fund was down 12 per cent last year.
Chesapeake Partners blamed regulation when it stopped trading in June following an 18-month period of losses.
The hedge fund, one of a handful with a female manager, shut up shop after 25 years.
Renowned UK hedge fund manager Crispin Odey saw assets under management at his flagship fund shrink by 60 per cent in the first nine months of the year.
The number of closures is in sharp contrast to last year when 877 hedge funds were formed across the globe, compared with 833 which were liquidated.
The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declined to hear the appeal of a group of Kansas parents and students who object on religious grounds to the states adoption of the Next Generation Science Standards.
The group alleged in a lawsuit against the Kansas state education department that the standards, developed by 26 states based on a framework published by the National Research Council, address religious questions by removing a theistic viewpoint and creating a non-theistic worldview in science instruction in the public schools.
The lawsuit by a group called Citizens for Objective Public Education said that in addressing questions such as where do we come from?, the Next Generation standards rely on an orthodoxy called Methodological Naturalism or Scientific Materialism and a variety of other deceptive methods to lead impressionable children, beginning in kindergarten, to answer the questions with only materialistic/atheistic answers, as the group said in its Supreme Court appeal.
The group argued that Kansass 2013 adoption of science standards based on the Next Generation Science Standards and the National Research Councils framework constituted an unconstitutional government establishment of religion and also violated the First Amendment free exercise of religion rights of the families.
A federal district court held in 2014 that the group and its members lacked standing to bring the suit because the alleged injuries were abstract.
In an April decision , a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit, in Denver, unanimously upheld the district court and rejected COPEs theories of legal injury.
COPE does not offer any facts to support the conclusion that the Standards condemn any religion or send a message of endorsement, the 10th Circuit court said. And any fear of biased instruction is premised on COPEs predictions of school districts responses to the Standardsan attempt by COPE to recast a future injury as a present one.
The U.S. Supreme Court asked Kansas to respond to COPEs appeal, and the state stressed that curriculum decisions remain a matter for local school districts.
Although Kansas law requires the state board of education to establish curriculum standards, locally elected school boards remain free to determine their own curricula, said the brief filed by Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt. He added that COPE had not alleged that any children involved in the suit attended school districts where the science standards had been implemented.
The Supreme Court issued a short order on Nov. 14 declining without comment to hear the groups appeal in COPE v. Kansas State Board of Education (Case No. 16-229).
Plans are back in motion to build a new giant skyscraper in the City of London after Brexit put a pause on planning.
Axa Investment Managers Real Assets is understood to be ready to push forward with the development at 22 Bishopsgate.
The tower is set to stand 919ft tall nearly 100ft shy of the Shard with 62 storeys and an estimated construction cost of 450million.
Reach for the sky: How the AXA tower at 22 Bishopsgate will compare with existing skyscrapers
Axa said in April that it would work with its joint venture partner Lipton Rogers to complete the project in 2019.
But fears over Brexit had led to concerns about whether the duo would pull out of the project.
Axa had said it would 'revisit the options' in the event of a Brexit vote.
The firm has now confirmed it will push on with the project as London is 'one of the leading global centres for international business.'
But religious watchdogs in Israel have said plan is '
The Israeli Prime Minister has been accused of restricting religious freedom after backing a law to limit the volume of calls to prayer from mosques.
Benjamin Netanyahu said he would support the draft bill to silence the calls, which was then adopted by a ministerial committee.
The bill now faces three readings in parliament before becoming law, but religious watchdogs have labelled the plan 'unnecessarily divisive.'
The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, pictured, has been accused of restricting religious freedom after backing a law to limit the volume of calls to prayer from mosques
It is believed that the bill would stop the use of public address systems from mosques to issue the calls to prayer.
But while the draft bill applies to all houses of worship, it is seen as specifically targeting mosques.
And Mr Netanyahu said: 'I cannot count the times - they are simply too numerous - that citizens have turned to me from all parts of Israeli society, from all religions, with complaints about the noise and suffering caused by the excessive noise coming from the public address systems of houses of prayer.'
Israel's population is roughly 17.5 per cent Arab, most of them Muslim, and they accuse the Jewish majority of badly discriminating against them.
East Jerusalem is also mainly Palestinian and traditional calls to prayer by muezzins through public address systems can be heard in the city.
And the Israel Democracy Institute, a non-partisan think tank, has spoken out against the proposal.
The minaret of a mosque in the West Bank village of Lubban Ash-Sharqiya in Israel. It is believed the bill will ban mosques from using public address systems to issue their calls to prayer
On Sunday, one of the watchdog's officials accused Israel's right-wing politicians of dangerously using the issue to gain political points under the guise of improving quality of life.
Nasreen Hadad Haj-Yahya wrote in Israeli newspaper Maariv that 'the real aim' of the bill 'is not to prevent noise, but rather to create noise that will hurt all of society and the efforts to establish a sane reality between Jews and Arabs.'
It comes as Netanyahu heads what is seen as the most right-wing government in Israeli history.
However, a ministerial committee has defied his wishes and voted to support a separate bill to allow settlers in the ocuppied West Bank to remain in homes built on privately owned Palestinian land.
Israel's Supreme Court had ruled the government must evacuate dozens families from the Amona settlement and return the land to its Palestinian owners but right-wing lawmakers want to pay them compensation instead and allow the settlers to stay.
The government has sought an extension for the end-of-year evacuation so it can find somewhere else for settlers to live, but the lawmakers who support the settlers' wish to remain, presented the bill to try to circumvent the ruling.
Israel has occupied the West Bank and East Jerusalem since the 1967 Middle East war. Palestinians want those territories along with the Gaza Strip for a state but peace talks have stalled since 2014.
Ex-cop was spurred on to take on
A former police officer hopes to make history by swimming every mile of the Atlantic Ocean from Africa to South America.
Ben Hooper set off yesterday from Dakar, Senegal, and has a swim of 1,635 nautical miles, or nearly 2,000 land miles ahead of him.
The British ex-policeman, 38, has been preparing for the challenge for three years.
Ben Hooper set off yesterday from Dakar, Senegal, and has a swim of 1,635 nautical miles, or nearly 2,000 land miles ahead of him
Flanked by two boats and a crew of less than a dozen, Hooper aims to be the first person to swim every mile of the Atlantic Ocean from continent to continent, stepping on land again in March
'This is for my daughter,' said Hooper, who filled a water bottle with sand to keep for the 8-year-old who he said inspired the swim. 'It's been a long time coming.'
His journey began on Sunday around 10:30am on the beach outside the Monaco Plage hotel in Dakar and he aims in finish in Natal, north east Brazil in March 2017.
Flanked by two boats and a crew of less than a dozen, Hooper aims to be the first person to swim every mile of the Atlantic Ocean from continent to continent, stepping on land again in March.
As well as training extensively Hooper has also gathered a crew for the Big Blue, the main boat on which he will eat and sleep when he is not swimming.
He will spend about eight hours each day powering through waters infested with sharks and jellyfish.
Water has played an a surprisingly important role in Hooper's life. 'I nearly drowned when I was 5 in a swimming pool in Belgium,' he said. 'Ever since I've had this affinity with water. It was the calmest I've ever felt.'
Hooper said he experienced a bout of depression about three and a half years ago and decided to turn his life around for his daughter. So he looked to water.
'Nobody had swum a full ocean,' he explained. 'More people have landed on the moon than have tried this, so at that point I thought maybe this is my calling.
As well as training extensively Hooper has also gathered a crew for the Big Blue, the main boat on which he will eat and sleep when he is not swimming. He will spend about eight hours each day powering through waters infested with sharks and jellyfish
Inspired by British explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Hooper said he hopes to motivate others, especially children, to swim
Hooper's journey began on Sunday around 10:30am on the beach outside the Monaco Plage hotel in Dakar and he aims in finish in Natal, north east Brazil in March 2017.
'If I can inspire myself, other people and raise money for charity, why not do it?'
Inspired by British explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Hooper said he hopes to motivate others, especially children, to swim.
Funding for the expedition has taken time, and the launch was set back several times as various crew members dropped out and the boats faced mechanical issues.
'See you in Brazil,' Hooper said to supporters as he stood in sea at Dakar, before eventually swimming off into the sunlit waters toward his goal
'This will be a major achievement overall,' said Nigel Taylor-Schofield, the captain of Big Blue. 'If anybody can accomplish this, it would be Ben. He is very determined.'
The crew, including a paramedic, will track the miles, and Hooper has said if he gets to Brazil with the help of currents, he will swim until he fulfills the full Atlantic mileage.
The challenges - be it marine life, dehydration, and more - will be vast, but Hooper says his biggest fear is letting the team and his daughter down.
For motivation he will listen to a playlist on customized earphones that he said will include eurotrash music, Eminem and The Script's Hall of Fame.
Hooper will also wear various gear that helps camouflage him from sharks and a tracking device so supporters can follow his nearly five-month swim online.
Julian Assange was finally quizzed yesterday over claims that he raped a woman but Swedish prosecutors were barred from asking him questions.
In farcical scenes, investigators travelled to Ecuadors London embassy where the WikiLeaks founder has been holed up since jumping bail in 2012.
But Swedens assistant prosecutor Ingrid Isgren and police inspector Cecilia Redell were only allowed to listen as the fugitive was asked pre-prepared questions by an Ecuadorian government representative.
Scroll down for video.
Julian Assange was finally quizzed yesterday over claims that he raped a woman but Swedish prosecutors were barred from asking him questions
It came just 24 hours after Assanges celebrity friend, former Baywatch star and Playboy model Pamela Anderson, 49, was seen delivering snacks to his hideout.
The interview will influence the decision over whether the Swedish inquiry will continue. It is not clear whether Assange consented to a DNA sample being taken.
The extraordinary situation could help break the deadlock over Britains most expensive and unwelcome house guest.
The Australian hacker has been living in a cramped room in the diplomatic mission in Knightsbridge, central London, since June 19, 2012, after claiming asylum to avoid extradition to Sweden to face the claims. Meanwhile the taxpayer-funded bill for police posted outside the building around the clock topped 12.5million.
But even after that vigil ended last year, Assange remained inside saying he fears American authorities would try to extradite him to the US to be quizzed for leaking secret military documents.
Assange is accused of raping a woman, named in legal papers as SW, at her home in August 2010. He denies the claims, which relate to a visit he made to Stockholm in August 2010 to give a lecture, and believes they are politically-motivated after WikiLeaks released covert files on the Afghanistan and Iraq wars.
Swedish prosecutor Ingrid Isgren arrives at the Ecuadorian Embassy in London, where Mr Assange will be quizzed over rape allegations
The Swedish prosecutor and other officials will be present when Mr Assange is quizzed inside the embassy in Knightsbridge
Last night Wikileaks released a statement saying Assange had co-operated fully after Sweden took his statement on the allegations for the first time ever. But in an odd agreement thrashed out with Ecuador, the Swedes were not allowed to question the rape suspect directly. Instead questions were submitted in Spanish and put to him by an Ecuadorean prosecutor. No follow-up questions were allowed.
Results of the interview will be sent from Ecuador to the Swedish prosecutors in a written statement. After this report, the prosecutors will take a view on the continuation of the investigation.
Ecuadors UK ambassador Carlos Ortiz was in the embassy during the interview, which lasted nearly four hours, as well as Assanges lawyers. But frustration is mounting at how long the stand-off has lasted. A Whitehall source said: This has already cost the UK a huge amount, has been dragging on for years and he is facing very serious charges. This impasse has got to end.
It came just 24 hours after Assanges celebrity friend, former Baywatch star and Playboy model Pamela Anderson, 49, was seen delivering snacks to his hideout
As prosecutors arrived at the Ecuadorian embassy in London, supporters of Mr Assange also gathered
Many of his supporters tied banners to the fence of the building calling for the WikiLeaks founder to be freed
Police officers outside the Ecuadorian embassy in London where Swedish authorites are interviewing Mr Assange
And Tory MP Andrew Bridgen said: The law is the law and Assange has got to go through due process but the fact is that sheltering Assange has incurred huge costs to the UK.
After the interview, a statement from the Swedish prosecutors said the probe was subject to confidentiality. But Swedish prosecutor Marianne Ny, leading the inquiry, said: I welcome the fact that the investigation can now move forward via an interview. Guillaume Long, Ecuadors foreign minister, said: This is something that Ecuador has been inviting the Swedish prosecutors to do ever since we granted asylum to Mr Assange in 2012. There was no need for the Swedish authorities to delay for over 1,000 days.
A WikiLeaks statement said: For the first time since August 2010, Mr Assange was finally able to give his statement in relation to this allegation. He has done so in part to ensure the Swedish authorities have no further excuse not to discontinue their preliminary investigation.
Assange denies the allegations but if convicted, he could face up to six years in jail. A European Arrest Warrant for him remains in place and can be enforced as soon as he steps out on to the street.
Sainsbury's has joined this year's trend for upbeat festive ads with an animated tale about a father who makes it home in time for Christmas, accompanied by the singing of James Corden.
Hard-working father Dave is the star of the three-minute and 20 second ad as he comes up with a plan to clone himself to get his work done in time to join the family festivities.
The musical-style campaign uses state-of-the-art stop frame animation, which required 800 tiny models of Dave's face to portray his full range of expressions.
The latest ad will screen on TV for the first time tonight at 9.15pm during ITV's I'm a Celebrity ... Get Me Out Of Here!
Hard-working father Dave (centre with hat) is the star of the three minute 20 second ad as he comes up with a plan to clone himself to get his work done in time to join the family festivities
The musical-style campaign uses state-of-the-art stop frame animation, which required 800 tiny models of Dave's face to portray his full range of expressions
Flight Of The Conchords star Bret McKenzie, who won the 2012 Oscar for best original song for The Muppets, composed the tune The Greatest Gift For Christmas Is Me, sung by talk show host Corden.
The campaign will help raise funds for accommodation for the families of children being treated at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
Great Ormond Street Hospital Children's Charity chief executive Tim Johnson said: 'The money raised will enable us to help more families be together when they really need to be, by providing dedicated accommodation close to the hospital.
'This is a vital resource, enabling parents and carers to be at their child's bedside within minutes, at whatever time of the day and night.'
Sarah Kilmartin, head of broadcast communications at Sainsbury's, said: 'Supporting Great Ormond Street Hospital Children's Charity felt like a very natural extension of this as we know that the families at the hospital face more difficulties than most to spend time together as a family, at Christmas and all year round.'
Flight Of The Conchords star Bret McKenzie sung by talk show host Corden
The campaign will help raise funds for accommodation for the families of children being treated at Great Ormond Street Hospital
The Christmas advert features the talents of entertainer James Corden on vocals
The supermarket's Christmas 2015 ad featuring children's book character Mog the Cat notched up almost 37 million online views. The exclusive Mog's Christmas Calamity book topped the UK best-selling book charts for four weeks running.
In 2014 Sainsbury's, which always waits until after Armistice Day to release its Christmas campaign, partnered with the Royal British Legion for an ad based on Christmas Day 1914 when British and German soldiers laid down their weapons and met on neutral territory.
A University of Alabama student accused of raping a teenage girl in a dorm room has been arrested.
Joseph Tyler Pitts, 19, was charged with first-degree rape on Sunday.
The 18-year-old female victim, who is also a student at the university, told police she had been drinking with Pitts on Saturday night when she lost consciousness.
Joseph Tyler Pitts, 19, has been charged with first-degree rape after he was accused of raping an 18-year-old girl in a University of Alabama dorm room on Saturday night
The victim was awakened by two friends after they came into a room and allegedly saw Pitts having sex with the unconscious girl.
She told investigators about the incident at DCH Regional Medical Center early Saturday.
Pitts is being held at the Tuscaloosa County Jail on a $30,000 bond.
It's not clear if Pitts has an attorney.
The victim, who is also a student at the university, told police she had been drinking with Pitts on Saturday night when she lost consciousness
Police say Pitts was allegedly caught having sex with the girl by two of her friends
Slain bikie turned musician Bronson Ellery wanted to turn his back on his criminal past and concentrate on becoming a death metal star.
But the ex-Bandidos gang member was was found dead last Friday along with his ex-girlfriend Shelsea Schilling in the northern Gold Coast suburb of Southport.
Police are now treating the deaths of Ellery and Ms Schilling as suspicious after early stages of the investigation suggested a double homicide, not a murder-suicide, and a postmortem is expected to be carried out on both bodies on Monday.
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Bronson Ellery (pictured) turned his on back the Bandidos bikie gang to concentrate on his music
But it wasn't supposed to end this way. In 2014 as Solitary Son, his one-man hardcore rock act, Ellery released his music on the Internet and hoped to become a rock star.
The response was underwhelming and his songs got scathing reviews on YouTube, however Ellery - also known as the Lizard Man - wasn't about to give up.
'Since then I've disabled all comments on my YouTube videos. There were a lot of haters! It's easier to hate than like, I think,' he told Noisey.com in 2015.
'As soon as one person says something negative about it, the rest follow. It was probably 15-year-old kids on their computers at home who don't know anything about music.'
Ellery (right) was found dead last Friday along with his ex-girlfriend Shelsea Schilling (left) in the northern Gold Coast suburb of Southport
In 2014 as Solitary Son, his one-man hardcore rock act, Ellery released his music on the Internet
However music critics said his songs were 'atrocious' and that he made 'silly videos'
He persevered, and a stint in prison last year gave him the chance to write new material, which Ellery believed would eventually propel him to fame and fortune.
In March 2015 Ellery he left prison after spending four months in custody for trying to bully a man into withdrawing a complaint to police.
He used this time to write the new material for his debut album Searching Souls that he released later in 2015, and claimed it was 'a lot better and heavier than my previous stuff'.
'I do the singing, screaming there's more screaming now in this new stuff,' he told Noisey.com. 'I'm 100% dedicated to it and I won't stop until I get there.'
But his music still did not generate any attention with hard rock website Metalsucks describing his music as 'atrocious', and that he made 'objectively bad music and equally-silly videos'.
Whether or not Ellery's new material was an improvement is irrelevant now.
But Ellery persevered and continued to make his music and hoped for a big break
Before concentrating in his music Ellery was an associate of the Bandidos bikies
Ellery (pictured right with Ms Schilling) claimed the bikie gang turned on him at their clubhouse
It may not have been a success but at least his music had ensured he'd left the Bandidos bikie gang in 2014. He told Noisey.com in 2015 he now hated them after he claimed they turned on him at their clubhouse.
'They just turn on their own. They've done it to heaps of other members in the past. They reckon some place thought I burned down their tattoo shop, which I didn't, so instead of fighting them because they were scared to, they just got rid of me,' he said.
He described the club as 'a bunch of guys that try and act hard with tattoos' with nothing better to do with their lives.
'They join a gang and call it a name and wear the t-shirts and walk around town thinking they're tough when they're really not,' he said.
Before he spent four months in jail for trying to bully a man into withdrawing a complaint to police, Ellery had served several stints behind bars.
He described the club as 'a bunch of guys that try and act hard with tattoos'
It was reported that the couple had 'caused one another a bad energy'
He made headlines in 2012 when he was charged with public nuisance following a brawl with members of the Finks outlaw motorcycle gang at Harbour Town shopping centre, the Gold Coast Bulletin reports.
'My son doesn't drink, smoke or do drugs but he's judged by the artwork on his face,' his mum Suzi said at the time.
Police had said Ellery hoped the arrest would be covered in the media to increase exposure to his single, In Memory of Us.
But it received a bad reception, with critics panning the singing, production and quality of it.
Ms Schilling would have been 21 years old on November 30. The quiet Gold Coast girl had completed a diploma in beauty therapy at the Australian National College of Beauty in Brisbane in 2013.
It was reported that in recent months the couple had 'caused one another a bad energy' and had a a 'toxic love'.
An internationally renowned Middle Eastern scholar at UC Berkeley has been accused of sexual assault, after a student filed a complaint.
Architecture professor, Nezar AlSayyad, 61, allegedly placed his hand on the female student's upper thigh before suggesting they become 'close friends' and take a trip to Las Vegas, according to the investigation.
A report obtained by the San Francisco Chronicle found that AlSayyad's conduct 'can be seen as an attempt to 'groom' (the student) for the possibility of becoming a romantic or sexual partner,' wrote lawyer Eve Fichtner, an independent investigator hired by the University of California.
Architecture professor, Nezar AlSayyad (pictured), 61, has been accused of sexually assaulting a student at UC Berkeley. An investigation discovered that nearly all of the student's allegations were upheld. AlSayyad has denied all of the allegations against him
The five-month investigation was completed in October as investigators discovered nearly all of the student's allegations were upheld.
From 2012 to 2014, AlSayyad held social invitations and gave out hugs in order to position himself as the student's protector, the Chronicle reported.
This particular reports only details the complaints of one student.
But the Chronicle found that two others complained about AlSayyad.
One of the students alleged they had sex more than 20 years ago and she felt taken advantage of, but her complaint was never investigated.
Earlier this year, another student accused him of nonsexual misconduct. That investigation is pending.
Not only did a UC Berkeley (pictured) student file a complaint about AlSayyad's behavior, bit two others did as well. One students said the two had sex and she felt taken advantage of, while a third student accused him on nonsexual misconduct
AlSayyad, who has denied the allegations said in an interview that that administrators are overreacting for fear of being perceived as soft on sexual harassment.
On Friday, The Chronicle learned that campus officials have barred AlSayyad from teaching next semester.
But AlSayyad told the newspaper that he is unaware that he will not be teaching this spring.
'If true, I will not accept it, as it presumes I did something wrong when I did not,' he said.
The investigation concludes at a time when scrutiny of sexual harassment cases on college campuses has been heightened.
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Frightened New Zealanders have been forced to go into survival mode, stocking up their shelves and fridges after an enormous 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck overnight.
Felt throughout the country, the quake hit 15km north of Christchurch, on the South Island, in the early hours of Monday, killing at least two people and causing a two-metre tsunami as well as powerful aftershocks.
As the sun rose on Monday morning, worried residents flocked to local shops and supermarkets to stock up on essentials such as food, water and medical supplies.
Within hours shelves were left completely bare as customers shopped in case of the worst.
At the Four Square supermarket in Hanmer Springs, not far from the epicentre of the quake, locals queued out the door and quickly bought 3,600 litres of water, forcing management to begin rationing items.
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Terrified New Zealanders have stocked up on essential items such as food and water following a 7.8 magnitude earthquake
Shoppers at the Four Square supermarket in Hanmer Springs, near the epicentre of the quake, bought anything and everything they could get their hands on when the store opened on Monday morning
The store's owner John Dawber told Daily Mail Australia people had left the shelves empty of bread and had also stocked up on fruit, vegetables, meat and bought more than 3600 litres of water
John Dawber (pictured), the store owner at Four Square supermarket in Hanmer Springs, said they had begun rationing items
Mr Dawber said he had rushed to his supermarket just minutes after the quake to begin the clean up so it could open early
The force of the 7.8 magnitude earthquake ripped up State Highway 1 (pictured) from Picton to Kaikoura on the east coast
The store's owner John Dawber told Daily Mail Australia he had rushed to the store shortly after the quake to ensure it was ready to open early.
'Obviously I worried about my family first, but once I made sure everyone was safe in my own house, I said to my wife: "I've got to get the supermarket open",' Mr Dawber said.
'It's the heart of community, I had to get it open and so I was in there at about 12.30am and we cleaned until 4am.
'Bread, fruit, vegies, meat and snacks were among the first items to go and it was lucky I had a Christmas supply of water in already because we've sold four pallets.
'We're just making sure we're being sensible and rationing water and milk, because we don't want panic buying going on or one person buying everything.'
While the town was hit hard by the quake, Mr Dawber said they were in a far better position than those in other parts of the country.
The enormous earthquake caused major damage to roads around the South Island, and also triggered a tsunami
A two-metre high tsunami struck at Kaikoura just before 2am on Monday local time. So far two people have died in the quake
There was widespread damage to shop fronts and buildings across New Zealand caused by the quake which struck shortly after midnight local time
The force of the earthquake caused shipping containers to tumble from this shipping yard in Christchurch, near the epicentre
People across the country were evacuated from buildings after the quake, which lasted for a number of minutes, hit
The first wave of the tsunami arrived at Kaikoura just before 2am on Monday local time, according to the NZ Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management.
Prime Minister John Key ordered a military helicopter to the Kaikoura region after it became cut off.
'We don't have any indications at the moment to believe it will rise, but we can't rule that out,' he said.
The Civil Defence has warned 'destructive waves' will continue and people on the country's east coast have been ordered to move to high ground. Although, those alerts have now been downgraded to 'coastal warnings'.
New Zealand lies on the Ring of Fire, a zone of areas prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, that circles the Pacific rim.
In 2011, Christchurch was hit by a major 6.3 magnitude quake that killed 185 people and flattened the city.
Residents at the Quest Hotel on the The Terrace, Wellington, were evacuated from their rooms in the middle of the night
Health chiefs are secretly planning to close hospitals, a report warns today.
Casualty and maternity units would also be axed to tackle a budget crisis.
The Kings Fund said NHS England was considering contractions and closures across the country. The respected think-tank said even some of those drawing up the proposals feared they were a recipe for disaster.
Patient groups, doctors and nurses have been excluded from key meetings and NHS bosses have tried to stop details being given out under freedom of information laws.
Health chiefs are secretly planning to close hospitals according to a report by the Kings Fund
One manager described the level of secrecy as ludicrous. Another said: Where are the real people in this?
For south-west London, the sustainability and transformation plans call for one of five hospitals to be axed: St Georges, Kingston, Croydon, Epsom and St Helier.
In the West Midlands, the hospital maternity units at Birmingham Womens or Heart of England would either shrink or close. The Health Service is already struggling to cope with a rising, ageing population and A&E and labour wards are particularly overstretched.
Chris Ham, chief executive of the Kings Fund, said: How credible is it to take hospital beds out when our acute hospitals at the moment are running really, really hot?
He said it was a heroic assumption to think that proposals to care for more patients at home would work. And he said closures would cause huge anxiety for the sick, and leave some MPs in fear of losing their seats.
Draft versions of about a third of the plans from 44 trusts have been published or leaked. Many are considering closing A&Es, maternity units, cancer wards and cardiac departments some will shut entire hospitals.
Managers claim patients will be better off in larger hospitals with top-performing departments employing specialist staff.
Sir Bruce Keogh, the NHSs medical director, defended the process, saying problems would only get worse without rapid action.
Many trusts said they had been told by NHS England, which runs the Health Service, not to involve patients and staff until necessary.
Managers have been told to say the plans are exempt from immediate release because they will be published in due course.
However Sarah Hayward, who leads Camden Council, published the plan for North Central London on the local authoritys website, warning she had serious reservations about the surrounding secrecy.
Casualty and maternity units are to be axed by health chiefs in an effort to tackle a budget crisis (file photo)
There has been no political oversight, and minimal public and patient engagement, she said.
That lack of public, patient and political involvement is why I am publishing this document on our website. It is vital that there is full transparency in Camden as this work progresses. The Kings Fund said three out of the four health districts it had looked at had hired management consultants to help.
Dr Tajek Hassan, president of the College of Emergency Medicine, said: Furtively producing plans without involving those who are or should be at the heart of the NHS, the patients, is wholly unacceptable and will not result in effective or sustainable services.
Dr Mark Porter, council chairman of the British Medical Association, added: Any plans about the future of the NHS must be drawn up in an open and transparent way, and have the support and involvement of clinicians, patients and the public from the outset. At this stage nobody can be confident that this has happened.
Above all, the Government must not use these transformation plans as a cover for further starving services of resource and patients of care.
Katherine Murphy, of the Patients Association said: There are many assumptions in these plans about cutting services, which will impact on care. This puts patients at risk.
The Health Service is already struggling to cope with a rising, ageing population and A&E and labour wards are particularly overstretched (file photo)
Jonathan Ashworth, Labours health spokesman, also condemned the lack of public involvement. But Sir Bruce said: This is not a moment to sit on our hands. There are straight-forward, and frankly overdue things we can do to improve care. If we dont, the problems will only get worse.
It is self-evident that the NHS in every part of the country needs a clear plan to take advantage of these new opportunities and ensure it spends every pound of taxpayers money wisely. The Kings Fund publishes its report on the plans today. It will say: National leaders did not want draft proposals to be made public until they had agreed on their content.
It is clear from our research that plans have been developed at significant speed and without the meaningful involvement of frontline staff or the patients they serve.
Patients and the public have been largely absent from the process so far. Simon Stevens, chief executive of the NHS, has threatened to bring outsiders into areas where health chiefs drag their heels.
In some parts of the country the reality is we are short of leadership capable of engaging with the task ahead, he told a meeting at the Kings Fund in London last week.
In some places weve probably got to think about how we upgrade the talent that weve got at our disposal.
Should Banks Be Liable for Effects of Bad Loans?
When a person defaults on a loan, they may lose their home and have their credit rating ruined. But the effects of the default may not be limited to just that person -- enough loan defaults can be felt across an entire city.
That's what the city of Miami is claiming in a lawsuit filed against Wells Fargo and Bank of America, trying to hold the lenders liable when irresponsible loans cause broader economic damage. The suit was initially dismissed by a trial court, but now the Supreme Court will review whether Miami can sue for discrimination, on the basis that predatory lending has harmed the city as a whole.
Miami Blight
Miami's central claim is that irresponsible mortgage loans given to unqualified or under-qualified black and Hispanic residents led to defaults, which then caused the city to lose tax revenue and spend more for social services. Essentially, the banks were discriminating against minority borrowers by giving them too much credit at too high a cost.
This led to more abandoned or vacated dwellings, blighting the city and contributing to substandard housing and segregation, according to groups supporting the lawsuit. One supporting brief filed by a trade union for police officers and firefighters put the consequences in stark terms: "A toddler drowns in the swimming pool of his neighbor's vacant house. A firefighter dies falling through the floor of a vacant building. A gang take over an empty house ... to advertise prostitution."
Where Do You Stand?
But before Miami can even make that argument, the Supreme Court must decide whether the city can even act as "an aggrieved person" and sue the banks. And then there is the logistical concern of this lawsuit opening the floodgates for others.
Miami isn't the only city trying to recoup the costs of bad loans. The Economist notes that Baltimore and Memphis have already settled similar lawsuits, and dozens more, from counties as well as cities, are in the works. And both the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, John Roberts, and the lead attorney for the banks warned that a victory for Miami in this case could mean a tidal wave of lawsuits from tens of thousands of other cities.
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A couple forced to call off their engagement as the brides parents did not approve have tied the knot nearly 65 years later.
Davy Moakes, 86, and Helen Andre, 82, met and fell in love at art college and he proposed in 1951.
His fiancees parents refused to give their blessing, fearing he would struggle to provide for his family if he became an artist and the wedding was scrapped two years later.
Davy Moakes, left, and his new wife Helen Andre had planned to marry 63 years ago but her parents refused to give her permission to marry Mr Moakes, who was training to be an artist
Helen, right, originally married Tony Rollings, left, who died at the age of 62 from cancer
Helen, left, and Davy, right, had originally got engaged in 1951 but split up two years later
But after five marriages between them, the pair were reunited last year with the help of Miss Andres daughter Debbie Williams, and finally married in a register office in Ripley, Derbyshire, on Friday.
Talking from their honeymoon in Cyprus yesterday, the new Mrs Moakes said: I couldnt be happier all my dreams have come true.
When I was 19 and my mother and father stopped me marrying him I was heartbroken They wanted to decide who I married, not me. They were quite Victorian like that.
I have loved Davy my whole life, but now Ive got him. Im enjoying every minute of it. I feel like a teenager again, it really is like nothings changed.
Fittingly for a couple who met at art college, their reunion was sparked by a sculpture.
Helen's parents Gertrude and Alan West prevented their daughter marrying Mr Moakes
Following her third husbands death in 2010, Mrs Moakes had moved to live with her daughter in Alfreton, Derbyshire. On a visit to nearby South Normanton where she had first met Mr Moakes she noticed a sculpture with the signature Adrian Moakes.
A search on social media revealed that the creator, 57, was her former fiances youngest child.
Her daughter contacted the senior Mr Moakes, who was living in Doncaster, but he was nursing his second wife Margaret, who had Alzheimers disease. Following her death 18 months ago, contact was made again to pass on condolences.
Mr Moakes later moved to Alfreton and proposed in October. He said yesterday: Its so strong, the love between us. Even after all this time, it still feels the same. Its just perfect, its just how it was.
The groom, who became an artist in his late 60s after a career teaching art and then in design, was 21 when the couple first met. They became engaged the following year and planned to marry when she was 19 until her parents Adrian and Gertrude West intervened.
Three years later, in 1956, the pair almost rekindled the relationship when Mr Moakess father bought two tickets for a local dance. But Mr and Mrs West locked her in her bedroom to stop her attending.
Mr Moakes described their objection as very unfair but there was nothing we could do about it, unless we were to run away, so we drifted apart. He married cooking teacher Rosemary Latham in 1957 and they had two children.
Meanwhile, Mrs Moakes qualified as a dress designer and set up her own business before her wedding in 1960 to Tony Rollings, with whom she had three children.
She twice bumped into Mr Moakes at Round Table dances in Sheffield in the mid-1960s.
A whopping 71 people were arrested in Portland during the fourth night of anti-Trump protests that saw police hurling flash grenades and tear gas on demonstrators.
Authorities say most individuals failed to comply with several lawful orders to vacate city streets in the downtown area of the city.
In addition, projectiles including road flares and bottles were thrown at police officers throughout the evening. A police vehicle was also spray painted with an anti-Trump message.
Five people were given criminal citations, while 67 people were booked into the Multnomah County Jail. A total of nine people did not have a mugshot photo taken by authorities.
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Pictured: (Top L-R) Michelle Ann Bach, 18; Nathan Willard Prime, 25; Nathaniel Prieto, 22 (Middle L-R) Noah Hochman, 30; Patrick Sottlemyre, 27; Reegan Margaret Okeefe, 18 (Bottom L-R) Robert Quandt, 27; Robert Wilson, 24; Scarlett Maddox, 24
Pictured: (Top L-R) Grant Victor Frey, 27; Gregory Thomas Liascos, 42; Jacob Snook, 24 (Middle L-R) Jacob Walter Pegg Lee, 31; James Adam Weinberg, 25; Jeremiah Barquet, 21 (Bottom L-R) Joel Samuel Brown, 25; John McKay, 20; Jordan Torrey Johnson, 27
Above protesters are detained by police after a protest against US President-elect Donald Trump in Portland on Saturday night
Everyone arrested on Saturday was also charged with a traffic citation for Failing to Obey a Police Officer.
At 11pm on Saturday, a large group of people were apprehended by officers at the intersection of Southwest Stark Street and Broadway.
A large city bus was used to transport the majority of people jail. The people arrested range in age from 18 to 54 years old.
Before the fourth night of protests began against president-elect Donald Trump, Portland Mayor Charlie Hales and Police Chief Mike Marshman called for protesters to stay home and to voice their opinions with the election in other ways.
Pictured: (Top L-R) Daniel Robert Vega, 21; David Lewis, 19; Dennis Dale, 54 (Middle L-R) Donovon Lyle Flippo, 21; Eric Rivera, 22; Erik Batterson, 27 (Bottom L-R) Evan James Bond, 25; Evan Todd Wellington, 33; Graham Parks, 35
Pictured: (Top L-R) Ahmed Mohemed Salah, 22; Alexa Nelson, 22; Anthony Alexander Hurley, 27 (Middle L-R) Bao Vrong, 29; Benjamin Bolen, 32; Carlene Beatrice Houk, 22 (Bottom L-R) Carlos Andres Arias, 27 and Chris Michael Russell, 32; Daniel Michaels, 28
Above demonstrators are detained by police in Portland on Saturday night during the fourth night of anti-Trump protests in the city. It is unclear if any of those who are pictured above were actually arrested
'Going to the streets for another night is not going to keep Donald Trump from taking office. It isn't going to change anything,' Hales said.
'If you're upset with the election, please don't come out and protest.
'We are done with criminal activity in this city. It's time to move on and to move forward.'
In order to control the huge crowd of protesters, police resorted to using tear gas and flash grenades.
Pictured: (Top L-R) James Mattox, 27; Robert J. Baker, 27; Chynna Marie Draeger, 24 (Middle L-R) Anna Christell Ogier, 25; Daniel Lee Garrett, 43; Bianca Marie Ferreria, 29 (Bottom L-R) Jake Bartlett Winchester, 26; Randal Lee Smith, 38; Taylor Ej Thomas, 19
Pictured: (Top L-R) Joseph Owan Gibson, 33; Justin Sean Tuli, 22; Katharine Mae Moore, 38 (Middle L-R) Kenneth Lee Shields, 37; Kevin Grigsby, 30; Lars Timothy Linge, 18 (Bottom L-R) Mario Villanueva, 18; Martin Farias, 20; Matthew McGowan, 21
Since the protests started after the election, one person was shot, several buildings have been vandalized, traffic was disrupted and more than 40 people had been arrested total prior to Saturday night.
The person who was shot suffered non-life-threatening injuries and is being treated at a local hospital.
Police arrested two 18-year-old men in relation to the shooting. They were charged with attempted murder and unlawful use of a weapon.
Above police block off an area during a protest against US President-elect Donald Trump in Portland, Oregon on November 12
Pictured: (Top L-R) Seneca Cayson, 19; Sydney Hobbs, 18; Taylor Joan Horton, 20 (Middle L-R) Tyler Joseph Boyes, 21; Tyson Lee Williams, 20; Ulizes Escobar, 18 (Bottom L-R) William Kerr, 29; Zoe Rain Barber, 24
During Friday night's protests in the city, police arrested 17 people.
Outside of Portland, several other anti-Trump demonstrations took place in cities such as Los Angles, New York, Atlanta, Salt Lake City, Washington DC and Phoenix on Saturday.
Of all the protests in the cities, Portland has seen the most violent demonstrations.
Above a demonstrator gestures a peace sign after a protest against US President-elect Donald Trump in Portland on Saturday night
Pictured left is Ariyuana Robinson, 18, and right is Daniel Michaels, 28
The smiles in the photograph say it all. A jubilant Nigel Farage and his closest Brexiteer allies grin as they celebrate meeting president-elect Donald Trump.
Standing outside the breath-takingly opulent gold-and-diamond front door of the 80million penthouse in Trump Tower, New York, the British quartet - Ukip donor Arron Banks, Mr Farage, Leave.EU communications chief Andy Wigmore and former Ukip aide Raheem Kassam - look on top of the world.
And they have even given their gang a nickname - the 'Brex pistols'.
The sight of Mr Farages beaming visage alongside Mr Trump has caused consternation not just in Downing Street but in capitals throughout the EU.
Theresa May has had to be content with a mere telephone call from Trump and even then she had to wait until nine other countries leaders were called, although at least she was ahead of Germany and France.
Nigel Farage (pictured centre with Donald Trump) met the president-elect in his Trump Tower penthouse with Ukip donor Arron Banks (second from left), Leave.EU communications chief Andy Wigmore (second from right) and former Ukip aide Raheem Kassam (right). Mr Trump's pollster Gerry Gunster (pictured left) helped with the Brexit campaign and also joined the gathering on Saturday night in New York
In contrast, Farage was given a tour of new leader of the free worlds New York home with its floor-to-ceiling marble, gilded columns and pilasters, its gaudy crystal chandeliers dripping with gilt, and a huge fresco depicting the Greek god Apollo crossing the heavens in his chariot.
Farage and four of his close allies from the referendum campaign were mesmerised by the lavish surroundings they found themselves in a Renoir on the wall was magnificent, commented one of them, while the bronze classical statue of Eros and Psyche was striking and the views overlooking Central Park were the best in New York.
Trump enlisted Farages help during the campaign because, like him, Farage was a political outsider and had stunned the political establishment over Brexit.
Farage spoke at a political rally in Mississippi for Trump in August, and Trump had famously issued that clarion cry: Its gonna be Brexit plus, plus, plus!
The invitation for Farage to join Trump in New York came in the early hours of Wednesday when it was clear Hillary Clinton was heading for a shock defeat. It was offered by Steve Bannon, chief executive of the Trump campaign, who has been hotly tipped to play a key role at the White House.
Farage was already in the US because he had been making a speech in Florida and was scheduled to appear on chat shows. Arriving at Trump Tower on Saturday, he had expected to have talks with some of the victorious campaign team, and perhaps come back for a brief chat with Trump the following day, the president-elects diary permitting.
A selfie taken outside Trump Tower and posted on Twitter shows (left to right) Mr Kassam, Mr Banks, Mr Farage and Mr Wigmore. Mr Kassam tagged it 'The Brex Pistols'
But that was not what took place at all. Farage and his partys visit coincided with an anti-Trump protest of 30,000 people outside Trump Tower and a nervous US Secret Service ordered the building to be locked down. No one was allowed in or out for four-and-a-half hours.
At one point, Farage and his team ventured on to a 21st-floor balcony for a cigarette, looking down on the milling mob of protesters. Security ordered them in, fearing they could be a target for snipers.
It was as he was drinking coffee with Bannon that Trumps campaign manager Kellyanne Conway walked past. She stopped in her tracks when she saw Farage, whose performances in Mississippi and on TV had gained him notoriety among the Trump team.
Conway tipped to be White House Press secretary embraced Farage and said simply: Lets go and see the president. He wants to see you.
They took two escalators to reach the penthouse then Farage and his party were ushered in around 4pm. They left about an hour later having organised selfies in front of Trumps gold-and-diamond door.
A triumphant Nigel Farage is relishing becoming the first foreign party leader to meet president-elect Donald Trump
Its real gold, you know, they were told. And worth more than my house, quipped one of them, a multi-millionaire, in return.
After the Brexit result, this was the coup of Farages life. So how did the 52-year-old, who has failed seven times to be elected to the Commons, manage it? He beat not only prime ministers and presidents but also many senior Republicans in the race to break bread with the man who, in two months time, will be the most powerful on the planet.
The key lies not just with larger-than-life Farage, whose friendship with Trump was formed in the heat of battle on the campaign trail in Mississippi. But also with the four others who posed outside the apartment door. Each had a role to play.
Theresa May has had to be content with a mere telephone call from Trump
Businessman Arron Banks, 50, is a former Tory donor who switched sides to Ukip in October 2014.
He had been planning to give the party 100,000 as an introductory gift, but upped the donation to 1million when former Tory leader William Hague condescendingly claimed he had never heard of Banks. It was a serious error by Hague. Banks, who made his fortune in insurance and owns diamond mines in South Africa, became utterly committed to the Brexit campaign.
He wanted not only to secure an exit from the EU but also to humiliate David Cameron and the Tory high command especially after they embarked on Project Fear.
He put 6.5million of his own fortune into the campaign for Brexit and recruited other rich businessmen to his Leave.EU cause.
One key appointment by Banks was Gerry Gunster, a Washington political strategist, who has worked on dozens of referendums in the US and boasts a 90 per cent success rate. On joining Leave.EU, Gunster advised making immigration a priority and targeting disaffected white voters who feared for their jobs and had seen wages driven down by EU migrants.
Crucially, Gunster knew leading figures in the Trump campaign and was at Trump Tower with Farage at the weekend. He was stood on the far left of the group picture.
Mr Kassam last month quit the Ukip leadership contest after it emerged he had posted offensive misogynistic messages about rivals on social media.
The 30-year-old has been London editor-in-chief of US news website and radio station Breitbart since May last year. He was chief adviser to Farage in the run-up to the last general election, in which the party received 4million votes and pushed the Lib Dems into fourth place.
It just so happens that Steve Bannon the senior Trump aide who invited them to New York in the first place is the most powerful figure at Breitbart in the US. And it was Breitbart that helped expose the recent sexting scandal involving the husband of a key Clinton aide, Huma Abedin which Hillary Clinton blamed this weekend for her defeat.
Farage was already in the US because he had been making a speech in Florida
Kassams misogynist leanings have an echo in Trump, of course. He had to apologise to Suzanne Evans, who is running for the Ukip leadership, after describing her as a wrinkly old ginger bird. He once called for SNP leader Nicola Sturgeons legs to be taped together so she could not reproduce.
Another gold-plated connection came through 50-year-old Mr Wigmore. A businessman who works closely with Banks, he is a diplomat with the Belize High Commission in London working in trade and industry.
His pedigree includes running his own media company, a stint as a TV reporter, and working in the presentation department of Conservative central office.
Like Banks he became disillusioned with the Tories over their EU policies. More than ten years ago he successfully sued former justice secretary Michael Gove over allegations about his private life. Gove paid 10,000 in damages.
After the Republican Convention in July, when Trump was endorsed as candidate, the hard-drinking Wigmore and Farage were celebrating in a bar in Ohio late at night.
Wigmore introduced Farage to staff of Mississippi governor Phil Bryant, one of the few Republicans publicly backing Trump. They got on so well they were invited to meet Bryant the following month.
Four weeks later Farage, Banks, and Wigmore met at Heathrow to fly to the US. They downed three cappuccino martinis, one of Farages favourite drinks.
On the plane they got through four bottles of red wine.
They were picked up in a blacked-out limousine with security staff and whisked off to meet Bryant and his wife Deborah at their colonial-style mansion.
In the car an aide of the governor talked Farage through the schedule, which included an interview on Mississippis main radio station, a visit to the Mississippi government headquarters, lunch with supporters and a speech at a private fundraising event with Trump and his backers. It was to be billed Mr Brexit meets Mr Trump.
In his book The Bad Boys Of Brexit, Banks reveals Farage dominated the fundraiser. The guests could not get enough of Nigels 25-year battle against the EU and victory in the referendum.
Farages speech was given a standing ovation. Banks book says: Trump called Farage back on stage and showered him with plaudits and drew parallels between the Brexit campaign and his own.
Farage was given a tour of new leader of the free worlds New York home with its floor-to-ceiling marble, gilded columns and pilasters
Trump then got Farage to speak at an event in front of a crowd of 15,000 people later that same day. Trump dropped the former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, who had initially been scheduled to make the speech.
Farage duly whipped the crowd into a frenzy when he said Trump could and would win. You can beat the pollsters in this presidential race. We did it with Brexit. You can do the same.
If I was an American citizen I wouldnt vote for Hillary Clinton if you paid me. In fact, I wouldnt vote for Hillary Clinton if she paid me.
The crowd went wild. Trump loved it. After the speech, as Trump was heading to his private jet for the next leg of his exhausting election tour, he saw Farage, Banks and Wigmore and said: Those boys look like trouble.
Back in Britain, Farage was publicly criticised by senior Ukip figures for embracing Trump. They feared that it would damage the Ukip brand and they criticised him for becoming involved in an overseas election.
Farage told me last night: Anyone who knows Donald Trump says he is very loyal to people who have been loyal to him. Trump knew members of my own party turned against me.
He appreciated what I had done. Meeting with us on Saturday was payback.
As for my own role, I would say that some of the noises about Trump coming out from the children advising Theresa May are so juvenile. Downing Street should be having a constructive conversation. If I can help that I will.
After Farages success in Mississippi, Steve Bannon and Kellyanne Conway studied details of all the private polling in the referendum.
They talked to Gerry Gunster. They finessed their message about the impact of immigration on jobs and ruthlessly targeted white working-class voters who had traditionally voted Democrat.
They also closely studied Farage speeches and interviews, deciding to make a virtue of Trump being despised by the establishment of the Republican Party.
As the Clinton camp wheeled out ever more celebrities from Madonna to Bruce Springsteen Farage and Banks told Trump to boast about the fact they were fighting on their own against the rest. Banks, who is now considering severing his Ukip funding, said that, whatever Downing Street decides about Farage, he will be a player.
Trump and Farage are both charismatic. He can talk to Farage knowing they are not rivals but have the same outlook. Its why he called himself the Brexit president. When we walked into the penthouse one of the first things Trump said was: Do you think my win is as big as Brexit?
Farage replied: Brexit was the first brick in the wall. Your victory is massive.
Farage joked this week about the prospect of a job with Trump: If he did offer me something I would quite like to be his ambassador to the European Union. I think I would do that job very well.
The deal to send refugees from Nauru and Manus Island to the US could be cancelled by President-elect Donald Trump on day one, the head of a prominent anti-immigration think tank has warned.
Mark Krikorian, head of the Center for Immigration Studies in Washington, has said, 'Trump will nix this on day one', The Sydney Morning Herald reported.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull announced the 'one-off' deal on Sunday, which would see refugees on Nauru and Manus Island resettled in the US, an alternative to them returning to their home countries or remaining in detention indefinitely.
Mark Krikorian (pictured), head of an influential US anti-immigration think tank, has warned President-elect Donald Trump could cancel Australia's deal to send refugees from Manus Island and Nauru to the US
The deal, announced by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull on Sunday, would see refugees from Manus Island and Nauru (pictured) resettled in the US
Mr Turnbull acknowledged the likelihood of a negative reaction from Mr Trump.
He has not said how many refugees will be sent to the US and the deal is yet to be publicly announced in Washington.
Mr Krikorian told Fairfax Media the deal between the two countries was 'difficult to justify'.
'I don't expect any Republicans will defend it. I can't see a lot of Democrats defending it either. My sense is that when the word gets out on this, it'll be dead on arrival,' he said.
Mark Krikorian, head of the Center for Immigration Studies in Washington, has said, 'Trump will nix this on day one'. Pictured are asylum seekers in detention on Manus Island
When announcing the deal on Sunday Mr Turnbull (pictured) acknowledged the likelihood of a negative reaction from Trump
Mr Krikorian also acknowledged the benefits for Australia in the deal and said: 'I'm not sure why this is a good idea for the US - it's absurd. I'm not sure why we'd be taking them off your hands.'
Mr Turnbull has said the amount of refugees from Manus Island and Nauru will have to fit within America's existing annual intake.
Mr Turnbull said the deal had been struck with the Obama administration some time ago, and the issue had not been raised with President-elect Donald Trump (pictured)
He insisted the deal was struck with the Obama administration some time ago and the issue has not been raised with president-elect Mr Trump.
'We deal with one administration at a time. You don't discuss confidential matters with one administration with a future administration,' Mr Turnbull said on Monday.
But Downing St flatly dismisses the idea saying they are already forging 'warm' relations with Donald Trump
Theresa May brutally slapped down calls for Nigel Farage to be used as a go-between with Donald Trump today.
Downing Street flatly dismissed the prospect after the jubilant Ukip leader was pictured with the US president-elect at his opulent New York penthouse.
Pressure has been growing for the government to take advantage of Mr Farage's bond with the incoming commander-in-chief.
But the Prime Minister's official spokeswoman pointed out that Mr Trump has already said he wants a Reagan-Thatcher style relationship with Mrs May.
'I don't remember there being a third person in that relationship,' the spokeswoman added.
No10 also fuelled speculation that Mrs May could visit the US to meet Mr Trump even before he formally takes over from President Barack Obama in January.
Theresa May, pictured on a visit to Diabetes UK offices today, has been under mounting pressure to give Nigel Farage a role as a go-between with Donald Trump
There have been growing signs of splits at the top of government in recent days, with one senior Whitehall source warning thePrime Minister it would be 'churlish' not to take advantage of Mr Farage's links with Trump.
They said the close connection between Mr Trump and the Ukip leader meant the PM should consider using his expertise.
'While he is clearly not going to be an official representative, it would be churlish to rubbish him completely,' the source said.
Downing Street stressed Mrs May had a 'warm' phone conversation with the president-elect last week, in which he said he wanted a relationship similar to that of Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan.
Asked whether Mr Farage's bond with Mr Trump could be exploited, the PM's spokeswoman said: 'We have established routes of engagement with the president-elect and his team...
'There are well established channels for that relationship between the elected leader of the US and the PM, and we intend to continue with that route.'
No10 declined to rule out a meeting between Mrs May and the Republican before he takes over at the White House - saying only that they would 'set out dates in due course'.
Mr Farage said he was 'extremely optimistic' about a post-Brexit US-UK trade deal after meeting Mr Trump and his advisers, claiming he had persuaded Mr Trump to restore a bust of Winston Churchill removed by Barack Obama to the Oval Office.
Mr Farage posed with the billionaire US president-elect over the weekend just days after No 10 rejected reports he could play a formal role in Anglo-American relations
But he warned Mrs May had to 'mend some fences' as the Trump camp was aware her chiefs of staff Fiona Hill and Nick Timothy had been 'very rude' about the president-elect on social media.
In New York yesterday Mr Farage hinted ministers were sounding him out about working for the Government in some capacity.
In a swipe at British officials who have dismissed his links to Mr Trump, the Ukip leader said: 'It would appear that the apparatchiks in Downing Street keep saying very negative things about me. I'd have thought that's just a little bit short-sighted, frankly.
One senior Whitehall source told the Prime Minister it would be 'churlish' not to take advantage of Mr Farage's links with Trump
Downing Street said there would be no place for Mr Farage in the relationship between Mrs May (pictured on a visit to Diabetes UK offices today) and Mr Trump
'I would have thought, in the national interest, they perhaps ought to bury their personal enmity towards me and we ought to have a constructive conversation.'
He told Sky News: 'If I'm wanted by anyone in London to help, I would help.' Mr Farage's currency is high with the Trump camp, which had been inspired by his role in Brexit.
PM URGED TO FORGE THATCHER-STYLE TIES WITH DONALD TRUMP Theresa May should use the Thatcher-Reagan relationship as a template for forging ties with Donald Trump, a former foreign secretary has said. Sir Malcolm Rifkind said the PM should follow the example of the first female British prime minister. 'I think Theresa May has a very important opportunity. She has already spoken to the president, she has been invited to Washington early in Mr Trump's term of office and that's excellent,' senior Tory Sir Malcolm told BBC Radio 4's Today programme. 'The immediate requirement, in a sense - and I don't want to exaggerate this - but it is to try and do with Mr Trump what Margaret Thatcher did with Ronald Reagan. 'Margaret Thatcher was able to persuade Reagan as to the need to have dialogue with Mr (Mikhail) Gorbachev and because she was the Iron Lady he listened to her in a way that he wouldn't have listened to anyone else.' He said Mrs May should use her influence to convince Mr Trump of the importance of Nato. Advertisement
Within hours of the election result last week, Steve Bannon, Mr Trump's presidential campaign chief, admitted the Brexit vote had resounded with many of their supporters. 'Nigel Farage is a hero to these people,' he said.
Last night some senior Tories reacted with incredulity at the prospect of Mr Farage securing an official or semi-official role.
Former party leader Iain Duncan Smith said: 'From what I've seen of Nigel Farage he doesn't fly by aircraft, he flies by ego. If he's so keen to get a job with us let's hope it's a good one like our representative in Outer Mongolia.'
Crispin Blunt, chairman of the foreign affairs select committee, said it was 'completely implausible' the Ukip leader would take up such a role as he suggested.
'I think there's a fantastic opportunity actually for a decent relationship for the United Kingdom with the new administration and no need for Nigel,' he told The Andrew Marr Show on BBC1.
But ex-defence minister Sir Gerald Howarth said it was a 'mistake' not to use Mr Farage. 'We are living in unconventional times,' he said.
'We should use all means at our disposal to forge a connection with the man who will be leader of the free world.
'As we leave the EU, this relationship will be of even more importance. If Nigel Farage has an entree with the president-elect, then fine let's use it. He's not a criminal.'
Former UK trade envoy Lord Marland suggested Mr Farage could be a 'salesman' for Britain. He told BBC Radio 5 Live that Mr Trump will want to 'turbo-charge' the relationship between the US and the UK.
Former UK trade envoy Lord Marland suggested Mr Farage could be a 'salesman' for Britain.
Another senior Whitehall source brushed off Mr Farage's transatlantic adventures. 'Farage is an MEP who went over there. This is not something we are thinking about,' the source said.
But Lib Dem leader Tim Farron said Mr Farage's meeting was a humiliation for Mrs May.
Donald Trump may only live in the White House part-time as he is so fond of his New York apartment, it has been claimed. A source told the New York Times Mr Trump was 'talking with his advisers about how many nights a week he will spend in the White House'.
Stroke patients are being failed at nearly a third of NHS hospitals, an audit of treatment reveals today.
Thirty-two per cent of hospitals in England, Wales and Northern Ireland were given the bottom two grades of D or E for their stroke care between April and July this year.
Any delay in the critical first few hours after a stroke can be devastating, vastly increasing the chance that patients will be left permanently disabled or even die.
Stroke patients are being failed at nearly a third of NHS hospitals a new report has revealed
And the care they receive afterwards including speech therapy, physiotherapy and home assessments are crucial if they are to recover fully.
Yet thousands of patients each year are let down by hospitals which do not treat them quickly enough, or leave them languishing without care when they are sent home.
Hospitals are rated on ten standards, including the speed at which stroke patients are scanned when they arrive at hospital, the quality of the treatment and whether they receive adequate physiotherapy, speech therapy and aftercare.
An estimated 150,000 people have a stroke each year in Britain. A quarter die within a year, and of the survivors, half are left with disability, which can include paralysis, speech problems and personality changes.
The Sentinel Stroke National Audit Programme, which publishes its latest results today, found that 62 hospitals 27 per cent of the 228 in the audit were given a D rating.
This indicates that between 31 and 40 per cent of stroke patients in the hospitals care were not treated to the expected standards.
An estimated 150,000 people have a stroke each year in Britain and a quarter of patients die within a year (stock pic)
A further 12 hospitals, 5 per cent of the total, were given the bottom rating of E, suggesting more than 40 per cent of patients were not hitting treatment targets. The Royal College of Physicians, which conducted the audit, stressed that 18 per cent of hospitals more than ever before were hitting the A grade, meaning more than 90 per cent of patients were treated according to guidelines.
But Juliet Bouverie, chief executive of the Stroke Association, said: Its very worrying that there are still 74 hospitals receiving the lowest two ratings of D and E. These are often persistently poor-performing hospitals, with small stroke units.
Its no wonder that almost half of stroke survivors tell us they feel abandoned. We very much welcome this positive news that more hospitals than ever are achieving the highest possible rating for their stroke care and salute the teams and clinicians responsible for making this much needed improvement.
However, the fact remains that its still only 18 per cent of hospitals less than one in five.
Any delay in the critical first few hours after a stroke can be devastating, vastly increasing the chance that patients will be left permanently disabled or even die (stock pic)
Stroke care has dramatically improved over the past decade, with the creation of a national network of specialist units.
But experts stressed that care falls gravely short with smaller hospitals often lacking access to crucial equipment and staff.
Fast treatment is vital when someone has had a stroke, with every minute of delay killing more and more of the brain.
Yet the audit has also found that more than 7,400 people one in 11 of those admitted to NHS hospitals with a stroke last year had to wait more than 12 hours even before they received their first scan.
In the worst hospitals, 36 per cent of patients had to wait for more than 12 hours before receiving a brain scan.
Mrs Bouverie said only 30 per cent of patients receive the mandatory six-month review.
Professor Tony Rudd, national clinical director for strokes at NHS England, said: NHS stroke care and stroke survival are at record levels with more hospitals achieving the highest possible scores than ever before.
Knives and metal poles were used as weapons as chairs were also thrown
Mother and father got involved in ten-person brawl at Mt Bundy Station
Ten people including four members of the same family were involved in a vicious drunken fight at a wedding over the weekend, police say.
Knives and metal poles were used as weapons while chairs were also hurled through the air at Mt Bundy Station, in Northern Territory, on Saturday night.
It is believed that two brothers, aged 21 and 28, began fighting at around 10pm before their mother and father also joined in.
Ten people, including a mother, father and two brothers from the same family were involved in a drunken fight at Mt Bundy Station, Northern Territory, on Saturday night (file image)
Ten people were eventually sucked into the violent brawl, according to NT News, before police arrived to break it up.
Officers are now interviewing members of the family to try and establish whether any charges will be laid.
It is not clear what caused the two brothers to start fighting. No serious injuries were reported.
The two brothers are believed to have started the brawl which eventually included ten people wielding knives, metal poles and chairs (Bundy Station, pictured)
Duty Superintendent Louise Jorgensen said: 'The matter is being investigated. Police attended to make sure everyone was safe and that there were no serious injuries.
'Its a Territory wedding that appears to have got out of hand.'
Countess of Wessex was among many who found themselves moved to tears during Remembrance Sunday
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The majesty of the moment never loses its power, whether youre a tough-as-old-boots ex-soldier, a face in the crowd or a member of the Royal Family. The Countess of Wessex was among many who found themselves moved to tears yesterday as the Queen led the nation in commemoration at the Cenotaph.
While communities came to a respectful standstill for Remembrance Sunday services up and down the country, there were, for once, grounds for celebration, too.
For there, tucked away in the official Ministry of Defence bulletin for the occasion, was the annual list of UK Armed Forces operational fatalities (deaths on operations, from injuries on operations or from terrorism) since Remembrance Sunday last year. Total: 0.
The Duchess of Cambridge, the Duchess of Cornwall and the Countess of Wessex attend the commemoration on Remembrance Sunday in Whitehall
Kate Middleton and Camilla exchange words during a lull in the Remembrance Sunday order of events in central London
The Countess of Wessex (left) was among many who found themselves moved to tears yesterday as the Queen led the nation in commemoration at the Cenotaph. The Queen (right) laid her wreath yesterday
Falling poppies and a series of war poems are projected onto Big Ben for Remembrance Sunday commemorations
That has happened only once before since the end of the Second World War in 1968. Many people will forever associate 2016 with tumultuous geo-political upheavals but, if this statistic remains the same until the end of December, this should also go down as a blessed year for our Armed Forces.
Whitehall was looking magnificent in the morning sun which was beaming straight into the Queens face as she faced the Cenotaph in Whitehall.
It recently emerged that her poppy wreath had been made a little lighter for this years event, a tiny adjustment in honour of her 90th birthday this April.
Yet the real challenge has never been the weight of the wreath. It is walking backwards down steps in front of millions of onlookers. Successive Lord Chancellors used to face the same problem at the State Opening of Parliament when they were expected to reverse from the Throne without turning their back on the Sovereign.
In recent years, however, that tradition has been abandoned and the Lord Chancellor now turns round rather than risk a tumble. Regardless, the Queen steadfastly refuses to turn her back on the Cenotaph.
All the senior members of the Royal Family were present. The Duke of Edinburgh followed the Queen with his wreath (and permitted himself a brief about-turn, though, at 95 and wearing a sword, no one was going to object). Looking on from a Foreign Office balcony were the Duchess of Cornwall, the Duchess of Cambridge and the Countess of Wessex.
On the next-door balcony a group of political spouses included Philip May making his debut alongside Dame Norma Major and Boris Johnsons wife, Marina. Down below, Prime Minister Theresa May led the political and diplomatic wreath-layers for the first time. Her predecessor, David Cameron, was relegated to the second row with former PMs Tony Blair and Sir John Major (Gordon Brown being elsewhere).
Mrs May was followed by Jeremy Corbyn. Unlike last year, when the Labour leaders barely discernible nod of the head became a heated national talking point, he made a perfectly respectful bow after laying his wreath.
It should also be noted that he sang the National Anthem, just as he did the previous evening at the Royal British Legions stirring Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall where he stayed on to meet veterans at the post-show reception. Mr Corbyn has wisely worked out that there really is no point giving his critics ammunition at the most sacred moments in the national calendar.
The Duke of Edinburgh followed the Queen with his wreath (and permitted himself a brief about-turn, though, at 95 and wearing a sword, no one was going to object)
Former Labour prime minister Tony Blair with Cherie Blair on their way to the Cenotaph for Remembrance Sunday
There had been several intensely moving moments during Saturday nights event, including a short film of Sea Cadet Beth Molyneux, 11, writing a poem in honour of her late father, Lt Cdr Ian Molyneux GM, who was shot dead in his submarine in 2011. Whereupon she entered the hall with her brothers to recite it.
There were so many equally poignant scenes during yesterdays Royal British Legion parade down Whitehall.
More than 8,500 marchers had come from afar; former Royal Navy Wren Carol Asam had flown from West Virginia.
BBC viewers may have seen Emma Fisher, widow of Warrant Officer Ian Fisher, killed in action in 2013, talking about raising two young boys without him. And there she was yesterday, marching proudly with the Staffordshire Regiment.
A few yards in front of her, leading the Cheshire Regiment contingent, was one of yesterdays oldest participants, Jimmy Gallimore, 98.
Theresa May's husband, Philip May, speaks to Norma Major, the wife of former Tory prime minister John Major
Jeremy Corbyn, leader of the opposition, with prime minister Theresa May and former prime minister John Major
During the retreat to Dunkirk in 1940, several of his pals were executed by the SS in the notorious Wormhoudt Massacre while Jimmy was taken prisoner.
He endured near-starvation in a prisoner-of-war camp in Poland and escaped twice. The second time was successful, after he was taken in by a brave Polish family, who risked summary execution by hiding him in a storeroom while German troops were sleeping in the same house.
Yet during yesterdays two-minute silence, Mr Gallimores thoughts, as ever, were on the scene which still haunts him most a young German soldier mortally wounded in the middle of the battle and screaming for his mother.
This has been a year of big anniversaries, not least the 100th of the Battles of the Somme and Jutland. The latter is perhaps best-remembered for the heroism of 16-year-old Jack Cornwell, awarded a posthumous VC. Yesterday his great-great-nephew, Able Seaman Alex Saridis, was part of the Royal Navys marching contingent.
But many had other dates on their minds. Army Catering Corps veterans had come to honour the 75th anniversary of their indispensable unit (motto: We Sustain) and all who had died in its service. I also spoke to Arnold Jeacock, 60, a former Able Seaman in the Royal Naval Reserve, who was marching in honour of his fellow crew members in HMS Fittleton.
Its 40 years since the minesweeper collided with the frigate HMS Mermaid during a Nato North Sea exercise with the loss of 12 crew. Mr Jeacock, who couldnt swim and wasnt wearing a lifejacket, narrowly escaped while his friend, Ian Hewison did not.
I always think of him and the fact he should have survived because he had a young family and I didnt, said Mr Jeacock, who lost a leg in a traffic accident six months later.
It does mean Im sometimes a little out of step. But Ive been coming here for the past 20 years. If youre going to march for your mates, the Cenotaphs the place to do it.
Helping hand from one VC hero to another
Some of the warmest applause at yesterdays Royal British Legion parade greeted the inspirational sight of one holder of the Victoria Cross being helped by another, writes Robert Hardman.
Sergeant Bill Speakman VC, 89, formerly of the Black Watch and the SAS, was wreath-layer for the 30-strong contingent from the Royal Hospital, Chelsea.
Pushing his wheelchair was Lance Sergeant Johnson Beharry VC, 37, formerly of the Princess of Waless Royal Regiment.
Private Speakman, as he then was, became the very first person to be decorated by the Queen at the first investiture after her succession. In 1951, he had been attached to the Kings Own Scottish Borderers at the height of the Korean War when part of the regiments position came under a ferocious Chinese attack.
Veteran Johnson Beharry pushes fellow veteran William Speakman-Pitt during the Remembrance event at the Cenotaph. Both men are Victoria Cross holders
Pte Speakman gathered up a pile of grenades and half a dozen comrades and proceeded to drive back one assault after another.
Though severely wounded in the leg, he had his wounds bandaged and went straight back into the thick of it, leading further charges to the crest of a crucial hill.
The citation for his VC reads: He was, by his heroic actions, personally responsible for causing enormous losses to the enemy, assisting his Company to maintain their position for some four hours and saving the lives of many of his comrades... Private Speakmans heroism under intense fire throughout the operation and when painfully wounded was beyond praise and is deserving of supreme recognition.
He went on to join the SAS before leaving the Army and moving to South Africa. Years later, he came back home and is now a much-revered Chelsea Pensioner. Yesterday, his minder (as if he needed one) was Lance Sgt Beharry, who performed two outstanding acts of bravery in Iraq in 2004.
While driving his platoon commanders armoured vehicle, it was battered by a series of rocket attacks. Unable to communicate with the injured occupants of the vehicle, Pte Beharry battled on through the ambush for more than a mile, sustaining serious injury himself, and then jumped out several times under fire to drag his comrades to safety.
Having recovered from his wounds, he was driving the lead vehicle in an assault weeks later when it was caught in another ambush. He was so badly injured that he lost consciousness, but not before moving the vehicle and its occupants out of harms way.
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BBC presenter Andrew Marr was yesterday forced to defend the broadcasters decision to show an interview with French far right leader Marine Le Pen on Remembrance Sunday.
Critics accused the BBC of insulting the memory of Britons who lost their lives fighting fascism.
Marr conceded his interview with Miss Le Pen for his BBC1 political show was controversial, but said it would not honour the fallen to censor someone who could become the next big challenge to Western security.
Several protesters stood outside the BBC yesterday morning to demonstrate against Marine Le Pen's appearance
Marine Le Pen, pictured, appeared on a pre-recorded interview on yesterday's Andrew Marr Show on BBC 1
Andrew Marr pre-recorded the interview with Le Pen although protesters still braved the Sunday morning chill
Before the pre-recorded interview was screened Marr told viewers: Now I know this morning some people are offended and upset that I have been to interview Marine Le Pen, and that we are showing this interview on Remembrance Sunday. I understand that but I would say this Le Pen could, under some circumstances, become the next French president in the spring. This week, in the immediate aftermath of the Trump victory, she has declared that the whole world has changed and that her brand of politics is on the march. What does that mean?
In the end we are a news programme and I dont think the best way to honour the fallen is to fail to report on the next big challenge to Western security.
Dozens of protesters from Unite Against Fascism gathered outside the BBCs studios in central London. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn spoke briefly to them before going on the programme. He said many were angry because of the language used by Miss Le Pen about minorities in France.
Labour education spokesman Angela Rayner said on Twitter: Marine Le Pen speaking on Marr Remembrance Sunday? Why not interview our veterans who fought fascists & lost so many comrades? So wrong BBC! Jamie Reed, a Labour backbencher, said: The point isnt airing Le Pen. The point is deliberately choosing to do so today. Sickening and deliberate.
Le Pen said she hoped she would be able to follow president-elect Donald Trump's shock victory in the United States
Tristram Hunt, a senior Labour MP and historian, said: As we commemorate those who gave their lives fighting fascism, it is pretty grotesque to have Marine Le Pen on Marr on Remembrance Sunday. There is a time and a place. Remembrance Sunday is neither the time nor the place. He added: The war vs the Kaiser was, in part, a war vs fascism. Le Pen signals a return to those dark impulses.
Miss Le Pen predicted she would become president of France in the third part of a global revolution after Brexit and the election of Donald Trump in the US. She also took a swipe at Ukip for attempting to distance itself from her National Front party, telling Marr there was not a hairs breadth between them on immigration and the European Union. Miss Le Pen also said that no more migrants would be welcome in France, as the country was full up.
Suzanne Evans, who is running to be Ukip leader, distanced her party from Miss Le Pen.
Now Lidl has applied to open a store next year - further down same road
Waitrose has permission for 30,000 sq ft store, meant to be open in 2014
While others prefer Waitrose and wouldnt set foot in budget store Lidl
Living by a Waitrose can add 40k to homes - but some are not impressed
Waitrose and Lidl are at war over plans to build rival stores half a mile apart.
And the battle has been joined by well-heeled residents who stand to benefit.
Even though living near a Waitrose can add up to 40,000 to house prices ten times what a Lidl adds some in the historic market town of Shrewsbury say the middle-class supermarket is overrated and they prefer the offerings at its budget rival.
Waitrose and Lidl are at war over plans to build rival stores half a mile apart in Shrewsbury
Others insist they wouldnt set foot in Lidl.
Waitrose has permission to build a 30,000 sq ft store in Oteley Road, which should have been completed in 2014. Lidl has applied to open a store, due to open next year, further down the same road.
It already has one store in Shrewsbury and Waitrose is not happy about the added competition.
Waitrose bosses asked Shropshire Council to throw out the application for the new Lidl, or they would reconsider their development.
But Lidl has accused its rival of procrastination and claims the stalled Waitrose project may never go ahead.
Chris Smith, from Lidls planning department, wrote to Shropshire Council: The proposed Lidl store has not singularly brought the viability of the approved Waitrose into question. If the Lidl scheme were to be refused planning permission Waitrose still does not offer any guarantee to deliver [its] store.
Locals in Shrewsbury, where four or five-bedroom houses can cost upwards of 450,000, are divided over which store should go ahead, with some wanting both.
Even though living near a Waitrose can add up to 40,000 to house prices, some in the historic market town of Shrewsbury (pictured) say the middle-class supermarket is overrated
Retired textile business owner Peter Sower, 77, and wife Christine, 75, a former accounts administrator, live opposite the proposed Waitrose site.
Mrs Sower said: Quite frankly Waitrose is overrated. It doesnt have anything the others dont have, and is overpriced. We spend quite a lot of time on the Continent and Lidl has things that none of the others have. The added value doesnt make a difference to us - weve got money stowed away from our last house sale and we wont move again.
Salesman Martin Cooper, 55, admitted to being a bit of a snob who would usually choose Waitrose, but added: Id give Lidl a go, you can get manuka honey there for 4, while its 17 in Asda.
Other residents were devastated at the prospect that the Waitrose would not be completed, with their house prices suffering as a result.
Waitrose has permission to build a 30,000 sq ft store in Oteley Road, Shrewsbury, while Lidl has also applied to open a store on the street
Julie Forbes, 58, who lives with husband Douglas, 59, a plumbing engineer, between the two sites, said: There are some good bargains at Lidl, but I dont think we would set foot in there to be honest. Waitrose is better suited to this sort of area.
Stuart Jardine, Lidls head of property in the UK, said Lidl had no opposition to the Waitrose store and added: Our proposed store would improve choice for local shoppers and we believe that Lidl has a unique offering that differs from many grocery retailers.
Therefore, a Lidl supermarket would complement existing stores in the local area.
Ontario Judge Bernd Zabel displayed contempt for his position and its political impartiality by showing up for work the day after the US election in a Donald Trump "Make America Great Again" hat, which he wore, and then perched on his bench.
Osgoode Hall law professor Gus Van Harten has filed a formal complaint with the Ontario Judicial Council, saying the judge is now "tainted" and should not preside over cases where the litigants are "women, Mexicans, Muslims and persons with disabilities" because Trump campaigned by disparaging and attacking these groups.
Matthew Green, Hamilton's first black councillor, commented on that implication that the judge's authority is tainted, saying that if he'd been convicted by the judge, he'd be seeking an appeal. He, too, called on Zabel to step down from the bench. "Given the divisive nature of the recent American election with its clear racism, sexism and xenophobia, if true, this alarming display by a Canadian judge only serves to underscore the distrust many Canadians feel in our own so-called 'justice system,'" Green said.
Law professor wants Ontario judge disciplined for reportedly wearing Trump hat
[CBC]
(Image: Washington Post)
(Thanks, Ed!)
They have had to abandon the cliff top home, lucky it didn't fall into the sea
Her mother said it was 'like someone picked up the house, started shaking'
She was thrown from bed when the 7.8 earthquake struck early on Monday
Tessa Prentices' family home was ruined during the New Zealand quake
Tess Prentice thought it was the 'end of the world' as her family were thrown out of their beds when a 7.8-magnitude earthquake wreaked havoc their house.
She and her parents huddled together and sobbed after the massive quake struck their cliff-top home in North Canterbury, New Zealand, in the early hours of Monday.
'It was like someone picked up the house and started shaking us,' her mother, Dr Anthea Prentice, told the New Zealand Herald.
Tess Prentice stands in front of her wrecked North Canterbury home after the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that rocked New Zealand early on Monday
When police later arrived to check on them, the family were advised to leave immediately.
They were lucky their house did not slip down the cliff into the sea.
'Plenty of people over the years have said, "Oh that's close to the edge", but I've always felt quite safe here,' Dr Prentice said.
They intended to leave after collecting a few items from the home, which had been ruined in the quake.
Walls had collapsed, holes in the roof appeared, the chimney fallen down and doors wrecked.
Two people died after the massive earthquake struck New Zealand, sparking a tsunami warning and has leaving some towns cut-off.
The quake, located near Hanmer Springs in North Canterbury at a depth of 15km, struck minutes after midnight and more than 250 aftershocks have since rattled the country.
Prime Minister John Key said two people were confirmed fatalities after the quake but it was not yet clear if both were as a direct result of the tremor.
The quake comes almost six years after a destructive 6.3 earthquake that killed 185 people in Canterbury early in 2011.
Houses in New Zealand pictured after the earthquake, perched on a hillside above land that has slipped away
The US Embassy in Afghanistan has closed following a deadly attack on an American military base.
In a statement late Saturday, the embassy says it will be 'closed for routine services' Sunday 'as a temporary precautionary measure.'
The unusual decision comes after four Americans two soldiers and two contractors were killed in a suicide attack Saturday on the Bagram Airfield, around 30 miles north of the Afghan capital, Kabul.
The US Embassy in Afghanistan has closed following a deadly attack on an American military base. The decision comes after four Americans two soldiers and two contractors were killed in a suicide attack Saturday on the Bagram Airfield (pictured) near the capital, Kabul
The explosion occurred around 5.30am local time as military personnel and others were gathering for a 'fun run' organized in conjunction with Veterans Day, according to NBC News.
Officials have not identified the casualties. Response teams are continuing to treat the wounded and investigate the incident.
The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, which they also said was carried out by a suicide bomber inside the base.
A spokesman for the insurgent group said the attack had been planned for four months.
Two days earlier, insurgents attacked the German Consulate in the northern city of Mazar-i-Sharif, killing six people and wounding more than 100.
The US Embassy in Kabul regularly warns Americans against travel to Afghanistan, where a Taliban-led insurgency is in its 16th year.
The insurgency has become more virulent since most international combat troops withdrew in 2014.
Donald Trump gave his first TV interview since being elected president on 60 Minutes Sunday night, and revealed where he stands on a number of the issues he spoke about during the months leading up to the election.
Host Lesley Stahl grilled him about potential Supreme Court appointees, accusations that his supporters have harassed African-Americans, Latinos, Muslims and gay people, and whether he would appoint a special prosecutor to go after the Clintons like he has pledged.
The President-elect said he would appoint pro-life judges who would overturn Roe v. Wade to the Supreme Court and make abortion a states issue.
Trump also confirmed his intention to build a wall on the border with Mexico and pledged to deport two to three millions undocumented immigrants whom he believes have criminal records.
And for the second half of the interview Trump was joined by his family, with his four oldest children stating that they would not have jobs on their father's administration.
Trump has so far appointed RNC head Reince Preibus as his White House Chief of Staff and former Breitbart boss Stephen Bannon as his chief strategist.
Preibus also hinted at the fact that Trump's son-in-law would be a close adviser to the president-elect during an interview on Today Monday morning.
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Sit down: President-elect Trump's first TV interview since election aired Sunday evening
President-elect Trump appeared on 60 Minutes with his children, who said they would not be working in his administration, and wife Melania
Tough questions: Host Lesley Stahl (above) grilled him on a variety of topics and campaign promises
Getting serious: Trump pledged to appoint pro-life justices to the Supreme Court
ON ABORTION
Stahl asked whether Trump would appoint a Supreme Court justice who would overturn Roe v Wade, the 1973 decision that made abortion legal across the United States and invalidated state laws restricting access to the procedure.
Trump pledged to appoint pro-life justices and said he was himself pro-life. He then predicted that, should Roe v Wade be overturned, abortion would become a states' rights issue again.
This means women would be able to get abortions in certain states, but would be prevented from doing so in other states - as has not been the case in 43 years.
'But then some women won't be able to get an abortion?' Stahl asked.
'Yeah, well, they'll perhaps have to go, they'll have to go to another state,' Trump replied.
When Stahl pressed him further, asking whether this status quo was okay, he added: 'Well, we'll see what happens.
'It's got a long way to go, just so you understand. That has a long, long way to go.'
Trump will have to appoint at least one Supreme Court justice, Antonin Scalia's replacement. Given the ages of the current justices, he could have to appoint four in total during his presidency.
Trump matter-of-factly envisioned an America in which women could have to travel to a different state to get an abortion in his first interview as president-elect
ON SAME-SEX MARRIAGE
The president-elect said he was 'fine' with same-sex marriage remaining as the law of the land and insisted the issue had already been settled by the Supreme Court.
Trump wouldn't say whether he supported marriage equality but said it was irrelevant to question his stance because same-sex marriage has already been entered into law.
'It's done. It - you have - these cases have gone to the Supreme Court. They've been settled. And I'm - I'm fine with that,' he said.
Trump said that gay Americans would not have to worry about losing the right to marriage equality
ON APPOINTING A SPECIAL PROSECUTOR
Trump dodged a question about whether he would actually appoint a special prosecutor to investigate Hillary Clinton's use of a private server - a promise he made during his campaign.
He said he didn't want to hurt the Clintons and called them 'good people'. Trump said he wanted to focus on healthcare and immigration instead of narrowing down on his former opponent - even though thousands of his supporters had called for him to 'lock her up'.
The president-elect declined to say if he would fulfill that promise but said he would give a 'very, very good and definitive answer' on his next 60 Minutes interview with Stahl.
ON TELLING HIS SUPPORTERS TO STOP HARASSING PEOPLE
Stahl confronted Trump with allegations made against his supporters.
They have been accused of harassing African Americans, Latinos, Muslims, gay people and of using racial slurs in several instances against the country.
Trump first said he was 'very surprised' to find out about the accusations and that he 'hated' to hear them.
When Stahl asked if he wanted to say anything to his accused supporters, Trump replied: 'I would say don't do it, that's terrible, because I'm going to bring this country together.
She brought up accusations that supporters have harassed Latinos and Muslims and Trump added: 'I am so saddened to hear that. And I say, "Stop it." If it - if it helps. I will say this, and I will say right to the cameras: Stop it.'
For the second half of the interview Trump was joined by his wife Melania (above)
Trump's children said that they would not take roles in his administration
ON HIS SECRET PLAN TO DEFEAT ISIS
Trump refused to say how he intends to get rid of ISIS. He has repeatedly declined to clarify his strategy and during Sunday's interview, as he did during most of his campaign, simply repeated that he and his administration would 'destroy' the terror group.
'You have said that you're going to destroy ISIS. Now, how - how are you going to?' Stahl asked.
'I don't tell you that. I don't tell you that,' Trump replied.
Stahl pressed him, after which he added: 'I'm not going to say anything. I don't want to tell them anything. I don't want to tell anybody anything.'
ON HIRING LOBBYISTS
The president-elect responded to criticism about hiring lobbyists to take care of his transition after pledging repeatedly to drain what was seen as the establishment's swamp.
Trump swore lobbyists were the only people available for hire, adding: 'Everybody's a lobbyist down there.'
'Everything, everything down there-- there are no people-- there are all people that work -- that's the problem with the system, the system,' he continued.
He pledged to 'clean up the system', adding: 'I mean, the whole place is one big lobbyist.'
ON BUILDING THE WALL
Stahl asked Trump whether he would actually have a wall built on the border with Mexico, to which Trump replied with a definite 'yes'.
He admitted that a fence could be used in certain areas instead of a wall. 'I'm very good at this, it's called construction,' Trump added.
The president-elect then said he would begin his immigration policy by deporting or incarcerating undocumented immigrants whom he says have criminal records.
He wasn't sure yet what would become of undocumented immigrants who do not have a criminal record.
'After the border is secured and after everything gets normalized, we're going to make a determination on the people that youre talking about who are terrific people, they're terrific people but we are going to make a determination at that,' Trump said.
Stahl (pictured shaking Trump's hand) asked the president-elect whether he would actually have a wall built on the border with Mexico, to which Trump replied with a definite 'yes'
ON MEETING THE OBAMAS
Trump opened up about his 90-minute meeting with President Barack Obama after the election.
Their conversation was supposed to last only 15 minutes but the two men spoke for an hour and a half.
The chat, according to Trump, could have continued for four hours.
'I mean it was - just - in fact, it was almost hard breaking it up because we had so many things to say. And he told me - the good things and the bad things, there are things that are tough right now,' Trump said.
He and Obama talked about the Middle East, the president-elect revealed, before calling Obama 'very smart and very nice' and praising his 'great sense of humor.'
Stahl asked whether the meeting was awkward, given the searing attacks Trump and Obama launched at each other during the campaign.
'We never discussed what was said about each other', Trump said, adding there had been 'zero' awkwardness from his standpoint.
'And that's strange. I'm actually surprised to tell you that. It's - you know, a little bit strange,' he said.
ON REPEALING OBAMACARE
Trump said he would keep some parts of Obamacare, such as the measure that protects people with pre-existing conditions, which the president-elect called 'one of the strongest assets' of the law.
He then pledged to simultaneously repeal and replace Obamacare.
'It'll be just fine. we're not going to have, like, a two day period and we're not going to have-- a two year period where there's nothing,' he said.
'It will be repealed and replaced. And well know. And it'll be great health care for much less money.'
ON TONING DOWN HIS TWITTER ACCOUNT
Trump promised that his Twitter account would change now that he is the next president.
'I'm going to do very restrained, if I use it at all, I'm going to do very restrained,' he said.
He praised social media for helping his campaign.
'I think it helped me win all of these races where they're spending much more money than I spent,' Trump said.
'I think that social media has more power than the money they spent, and I think maybe to a certain extent, I proved that.'
ON NOT TAKING VACATIONS AND NOT ACCEPTING THE SALARY
Trump predicted he and his administration wouldn't be 'very big on vacations because there was 'so much work to be done'.
He said he wouldn't take the $400,000 presidential salary. I think I have to by law take $1, so I'll take $1 a year,' Trump added.
ON PEOPLE BEING AFRAID OF HIM
Trump believes those who are afraid of him are only afraid because they don't know him. He said some protesters were professionals - a claim he also made on Twitter Friday, the day the interview was taped.
When Stahl asked what he would say to those demonstrating against him, Trump replied: 'Don't be afraid. We are going to bring our country back. But certainly, don't be afraid. You know, we just had an election and sort of like you have to be given a little time.
The alcohol was due to be sent for
Two Northern Territory police officers have been disciplined after seizing alcohol from a remote community before drinking it back at the police station.
The police officers were dobbed in after an 'anonymous tip', according to Ombudsman NT's annual report.
The officers were said to have seized a 'substantial amount' of alcohol from the community before returning to the station.
The officers were said to have seized a 'substantial amount' of alcohol from the remote community before returning to the station (stock of a remote community)
The alcohol was scheduled for destruction but was only completed once the officers returned to a major centre the next day.
During that time the officers are said to have ingested some of the alcohol but no evidence was found suggesting the officers had or had not drank the grog.
Due to the lack of evidence no legal proceeding were undertaken.
A senior police officer was found to have not suitably supervised the two officers and all three were disciplined.
The investigation prompted a review of the systems in place and suggested a number of new guidelines be put in place.
The new rules include the establishment of alcohol disposal points at police stations with suggestions that these be monitored by CCTV, instructions on when and how to store and record seized alcohol and also how to destroy it.
The alcohol was scheduled for destruction but was only completed once the officers returned to a major centre the next day
This is the revolting moment a mother-of-six discovered maggots crawling all over Coles frankfurters that she had just fed to her children.
Fiona Van Dam, from Perth, said she bought the pre-packed hotdogs from the Pinjarra store on Friday before making them into sandwiches on Saturday.
She fed the franks to several of her older children and her husband before noticing there were maggots on the sandwich she was about to feed her two-year-old.
Stomach-churning video shows dozens of the creatures crawling over the outer skin of the hotdog, which she appears to have flattened out to get into the sandwich.
While at first there does not seem to be anything wrong with the hotdog, Mrs Van Dam then moves part of the frank to reveal what is underneath.
Dozens of the little creatures can be seen crawling around on the frankfurter skin as it sits on a chopping board.
Mrs Van Dam wrote: 'If you have a weak stomach I strongly suggest you don't watch this video.
This is the disgusting moment mother-of-six Fiona Van Dam found maggots crawling over a frankfurter she had just served to her children and husband
'I bought pre-packed cocktail franks from Pinjarra Coles yesterday and this is what they are like. All they could offer as compensation was a $6 dollar refund.
'Several of our children, my husband and I ate them before we found this one which we had given our two-year-old!'
A Coles spokeswoman said: 'We take the quality of the products we sell seriously.
'Our national quality team has advised the contamination appears to be consistent with common housefly larvae. This has most likely occurred after the frankfurt was cooked at home, as larvae could not survive the heat of the cooking process.
Chaotic scenes have erupted at a troubled juvenile prison, with up to 20 teenage inmates still missing after they broke out of their cells.
Police are trying to subdue the young detainees at the Parkville Youth Justice Centre in Melbourne on Monday for a second consecutive night of riots.
Around a dozen young offenders have barricaded themselves inside a unit, with a number of fires reportedly lit.
Tactical police in riot gear and dog squad have been called in as firefighters and paramedics remain on standby after 'a disturbance' broke out on Sunday night.
Tactical police in riot gear are trying to subdue up to 20 teenage inmates on Monday
Tactical police in riot gear have been called to Melbourne's Parkville Youth Justice Centre
Police remain on scene at Parkville Youth Justice Centre after a second night of rioting
Several inmates had climbed onto the roof of one of the centre's units, with some armed with tools.
Ambulance Victoria has confirmed they haven't treated anyone for injuries.
The latest riot comes after teenage detainees rioted at the same facility on Saturday evening, with media reports suggesting the inmates climbed on roofs and caused significant damage.
Around 20 inmates trashed their cells before they smashed security cameras and ripped off walls and ceilings.
Youth Affairs Minister Jenny Mikakos condemned the behaviour on Saturday, and said the government was developing a range of tougher measures to put a stop to it.
Around dozen teenage prisoners are still barricaded inside the justice centre on Monday
Tactical police in riot gear and dog squad have been called in after a 'disturbance' broke out
Opposition spokeswoman Georgie Crozier says rioting at the two youth justice centres in Victoria has become commonplace.
'They (the government) need to step in and fix this mess because there is riot after riot nearly every weekend,' she told 3AW on Monday.
The Department of Health and Human Services said it is working to resolve the incident and added there was no threat to the community and the centre's perimeter is secure.
'All young people are contained within the facility,' the DHHS said in a statement.
'The behaviour of these clients is unacceptable and staff shouldn't have to tolerate it.'
Last month, several young offenders (pictured) managed to climb onto the roof of the Melbourne facility where they smashed property with metal bars
In her BBC programme she demonstrates how to microwave the fruit
When she judged the Great British Bake Off, Mary Berry made it clear that shortcuts would not be tolerated.
But when she is at home, it seems the rules do not apply, as the 81-year-old cook has revealed her favourite kitchen cheats including an ingenious way to easily juice a lemon.
In her BBC programme, The Mary Berry Story, shown over the weekend, she demonstrates how to microwave the fruit to loosen the juice with minimal effort.
She explained: I dont use a microwave very much, but one thing I find its very useful for is taking the juice out of lemons.
I find that if Ive got to make something like a lemon tart, using five lemons or something, to get the juice out takes an awful lot of effort.
I havent got these great, strong muscles, so this is where a microwave earns its keep.
The simple method involves cutting the lemon in half, putting it in a bowl and heating it in the microwave for 30 seconds.
Miss Berry is known for her simple, easy-to-follow recipes, and is not afraid to admit that at home she cuts corners now and again, including using shop-bought pesto and puff pastry.
The TV star, who quit Bake Off after its move to Channel 4, will be serving up more of her cooking secrets in her new show, Mary Berry Everyday, which was announced yesterday and will air in the spring.
The simple method involves cutting the lemon in half, putting it in a bowl and heating it in the microwave for 30 seconds
Miss Berry recently told Prima magazine that her favourite Christmas lunch shortcut is to prepare the vegetables the day before, like in a hotel.
She said: You cook them to perfection then run them under cold water to stop them cooking. Arrange on a big platter and reheat them when the time comes to serve lunch.
UK holidaymakers could be forced to pay 10 for a visa to go to other EU countries as part of a security crackdown.
The European Commission is discussing introducing a version of the US visa waiver programme to boost security.
International travellers heading to the US are usually exempt from a visa but have to apply for an electronic system travel authorisation known as an Esta.
UK holidaymakers could be forced to pay 10 for a visa to go to other EU countries as part of a security crackdown
This costs around 10.
EU chiefs want to introduce a similar scheme across to help them identify troublemakers and would-be terrorists entering the continent.
But it would apply to people entering the so-called Schengen zone, which excludes the UK - meaning British travellers would also have to pay to travel to other EU countries.
Sir Julian King, European commissioner for the security union, said proposals for a European pre-clearance system would be presented this week.
'We think this is going to be a valuable additional piece of the jigsaw because it will allow us to know more about the people who are planning to come to the EU in advance so that if necessary they raise questions about either security or in some cases migration,' Sir Julian said.
'We'll be able to intervene even before they arrive in some cases.'
Plans had been mooted over the summer that suggested Britons would have to apply for visas to travel throughout continental Europe once the UK leaves the EU.
But the 26-nation passport-free Schengen zone, which does not include the UK, could operate a visa programme similar to the US waiver before Brexit.
An electronic system travel authorisation could be introduced. Pictured: Arromanches, France
Currently British passport holders can travel throughout member states without having to apply for short-term visas of any type.
The Esta proposals are part of a broader response to calls for greater security across the continent following recent terror attacks in Europe - and comes one year on from the Paris atrocities.
Sir Julian said: 'The fact that we're having this conversation now is unfortunately timely, because Sunday is one year on from the horrible attacks in Paris which were part of a series of attacks that shocked France, shocked the whole of Europe.
'It's that level of present, persistent, indiscriminate threat that led to 80-plus percent of European citizens saying they want more action in this area.
'There are a number of elements at the heart of this task - tackling terrorism is one, but not the only part of it. There's work that needs to be done on cyber-crime and attacks, and serious and organised crime.'
He also said the EU was working with Internet Service Providers to tackle ISIS and other 'unpleasant' material. He said ISPs were being asked to 'identify stuff and talk to them whether according to their rules and procedures it should be taken down. Part of Europol, the internet referral unit, has referred thousands of items over the last 12 months and in nine out of 10 cases ISPs have taken it down.'
He added: 'Unfortunately Daesh (Islamic State) and some of their agents are working in the community to try and spread their message and try and radicalise individuals - we have to work against that.'
The Big Six energy firms have been accused of misleading the public over profits with some reportedly making up to seven times the amount they declared.
A secret report produced for Energy UK, which represents suppliers, suggests some companies are making up to 24 per cent profit, rather than the 3.3 per cent announced earlier this year.
The report, seen by The Sun, shows the cost of providing fuel to an average household cost around 844 in 2016.
A report produced for Energy UK, suggests some companies are making up to 24 per cent profit, rather than the 3.3 per cent announced earlier this year
But with many customers opting for standard variable tariffs, they can be paying up to 1,172 a year to some suppliers, leaving a profit margin of 272 or 24 per cent.
Energy Secretary Greg Clark last night vowed to summon Energy UK for a meeting.
'This report appears to confirm my concern that the big energy firms are punishing their customers' loyalty rather than respecting it,' he told The Sun.
'Customers who are loyal to their energy supplier should be treated well, not taken for a ride. They must treat customers properly or be made to.'
In June, energy firms told investigators at the Competition and Markets Authority that they made profits of just 3.3 per cent, or 37.
They blamed the high bills on customers failing to shop around for the best tariffs, with too many on standard variable tariffs wasting a collective 1.7billion a year.
But the industry body has now been accused of using the findings of the report, produced by top accountancy firm PwC, selectively and ignoring the profits, something it strenuously denies.
Energy Secretary Greg Clark last night vowed to summon Energy UK for a meeting
The Sun claims it has used the original report and used the energy industry's own figures to show the profit margins on their common standard tariffs.
But a spokesman for Energy UK claimed the newspaper has misinterpreted the report, which it said was commissioned using publicly available data to provide a guide on how different elements such as wholesale, network, policy and operational costs make up an average energy bill.
They said the report used the accounts of major energy suppliers which were provided to the regulator, Ofgem, and which showed average profits of 4 per cent.
'The purpose of the report is simply to help understand how the different pressures on an average bill have changed over recent years.
'It was not intended to present, or to hide, how much profit different firms make across their various tariffs.
'Energy UK rejects completely any implication that the report was changed to alter the perception of supplier profit.
A family is mourning after a teen accidentally backed over and killed his 75-year-old grandmother on Sunday.
The 17-year-old boy was reversing an SUV closer to the house, so his grandparents would have an easier time getting into the home, when he knocked over Chandrawati Lathan.
She was walking behind the car in the Floral Park area of Queens, New York, at the time, according to NY 1.
Seventeen-year-old Jadesh, who often took care of his grandparents, accidentally backed over his grandmother in the driveway of their Queens home (above), say police
The Queens home in Floral Park, above, was the scene of tragedy as a teen accidentally killed his beloved grandmother
The teen is only identified as Jadesh by the New York Daily News. He reportedly lived with his grandparents and often helped them out.
On Sunday, neighbors said the trio were dressed up to go out.
Neighbor Basheer Ally, 56, said that the teen was backing into the driveway only to help his elderly relatives.
A neighbor said the teen was only trying to get the car closer to the house
The teen was backing the SUV (above) closer to the door's entry for the convenience of his grandparents, said a neighbor
'The grandson was backing up so the grandparents could more easily get into the car and the grandmother didn't notice. He didn't have time to see her,' he told the outlet.
The woman was rushed to Northwell Health Long Island Jewish Medical Center but later died of her injuries.
Researchers at UT Austin have analyzed a deep depression on Mars that differs from a typical crater. The Hellas depression may in fact be an ancient ice cauldron, where a glacier forms over an active volcano, creating a chemical-rich environment that could support life forms.
A second formation in Galaxias Fossae has similar depth and is also worth a closer look, according to researchers:
While the Galaxias Fossae landform morphology is consistent with an impact origin, the large volume of removed material in North Hellas is less consistent with an impact origin and is interpreted to have resulted from volcanic melting of ice. The possibility of liquid water formation during or subsequent to volcanism or an impact could generate locally-enhanced habitable conditions, making these features tantalizing geological and astrobiological exploration targets.
Ice cauldrons occur on earth, and they oven have unique local ecologies, like this one called Katla in Iceland:
The full paper is available here.
A Funnel on Mars Could Be a Place to Look for Life (via R&D)
Robin Bailey will no longer host her popular breakfast radio show after what the station calls a 'disagreement on terms' - but she says she's been 'blindsided'.
Bailey has hosted the Robin, Terry and Bob 97.3FM Breakfast show in Brisbane for the past decade but on Monday, her departure from the show was announced, two years after her husband committed suicide.
ARN National Content Director Duncan Campbell said in a statement the company was disappointed she was leaving after being unable to agree on terms.
But Bailey said Monday morning was the first she knew of it - and it was not a joint decision.
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Robin Bailey is leaving 97.3FM after a disagreement over terms
She said she had been negotiating the terms of her contract for 'some time' and believed they were progressing well, Mamamia reported.
'The announcement today that I am leaving the 97.3FM breakfast team has come as a complete shock. I have been blindsided by ARN's decision not to renew my contract.'
She said she expected a more respectful approach to the process and thanked her listener for their support.
Meanwhile, Mr Campbell said: 'Robin has had a great ten years on-air with 97.3 and we're sad to see her go.
'While we worked hard to keep Robin as part of the team, we're disappointed that we were unable to agree terms.'
Bailey during her son Finn's 16th birthday, when she praised him for his resilience after her husband, his father, committed suicide in 2014
As of 2017, she'll no longer work at the station.
Terry Hansen and Bob Gallagher are to remain and will be joined by a new host.
ARN intended to provide information about the new version of the show in the near future.
ARN's National Content Director Duncan Campbell said in a statement they were unable to renew the contract due to both parties.
'ARN tried very hard to keep Robin at 97.3. While we won't comment on specific elements of contract negotiations for privacy reasons, what we can say is this negotiation was ongoing for a long period of time with Robin's management,' he said.
'We are very disappointed we weren't able to agree to terms, but unfortunately, based on the information ARN was consistently given throughout the negotiation process, we were led into a position where we were unable to proceed with contract renewal.'
Bailey's husband of 16 years Tony Smart committed suicide in September 2014 after a long battle with depression.
Robin Bailey with fellow breakfast show hosts Terry Hansen and Bob Gallagher (stock image)
Her male co-pilot ejected safely and survived the accident in Hebei
The 30-year-old was the first woman to fly China's J-10 fighter plane
in a crash, but hit the wing of another jet
She ejected from her aircraft
Yu Xu was killed during an aerobatics training exercise on
The first woman to fly China's J-10 fighter plane was killed in a crash during an aerobatics training exercise, state-run media reported Monday.
Yu Xu, 30, a member of the Chinese air force's 'August 1st' aerobatic display team, ejected from her aircraft during a training exercise in the northern province of Hebei at the weekend, the China Daily newspaper said.
She hit the wing of another jet and was killed, it said, although her male co-pilot ejected safely and survived.
Yu Xu (pictured) was one of only four female pilots in China capable of flying domestically made fighter jets Johannes Eisele (AFP/File)
A picture circulated by media shows Yu Xu enjoying her leisure time when she was off duty
According to People's Daily Online, the accident took place at around 9:45am on November 12 when two aircraft, including the one Ms Yu was piloting, were performing above the city of Tianjin.
Debris of the crashed jet was found in the Dayangpu village near Tangshan city in Hebei Province.
No explosions were heard before the crash, according to the report.
'As one of only four female pilots in the country capable of flying domestically made fighter jets, her death comes as a tremendous loss to the Chinese air force,' the Global Times newspaper said.
Ms Yu, from Chongzhou in south-west China's Sichuan province, joined the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force in 2005, reports said.
She graduated from training four years later, one of the first 16 Chinese women pilots qualified to fly fighter jets, the China Daily said, and in July 2012 was the first woman to fly the J-10. Fans dubbed her the 'golden peafowl', it added.
Yu Xu, the first woman to fly China's J-10 fighter plane, was seen in her high school graduation photo in 2005 (circled)
This picture taken on November 11, 2014 shows Chinese female J-10 fighter pilot Yu Xu getting ready to perform at the Airshow China in Zhuhai
Ms Yu was seen as a pioneering trailblazer in a country which enshrines women's rights but where traditional values are still widespread.
Users on the Twitter-like Weibo social media service posted pictures of candles in her memory, with thousands mourning her death.
'We praise her not as an individual, but for the spirit she transmitted to us, becoming the ideal vehicle for everyone's hopes,' wrote one user.
Others raised questions about the crash.
'Rather than stirring up emotion, the most important thing is to investigate why this accident occurred, was it a problem with the design problem in the fighter, or in the rules of operation, or in inadequate training,' wrote one.
'Only by ascertaining the causes can we ensure it doesn't happen again.'
Yu Xu was a member of China's 'August 1st' jet aerobatic squadron Frederic Brown (AFP/File)
Ms Yu rose to become a flight squadron leader and according to the Global Times dreamed of becoming an astronaut.
She was one of two female members of the August 1st team - named for the date of the founding of the PLA - pictured at China's premier air show in Zhuhai two years ago.
The pair strode to their fighter planes in lock-step with male pilots, all wearing identical green jumpsuits and sunglasses.
At the time the China Daily newspaper quoted Wang Yan'an, deputy editor of Aerospace Knowledge magazine, as saying: 'Female pilots have learned to fly cutting-edge fighter jets in the Chinese air force.
'It means the air force has diversified its pilot pool and can recruit more female pilots.'
Social media has been flooded with tributes to Chinese fighter pilot Yu Xu (R) Johannes Eisele (AFP/File)
Ms Yu appeared again at this year's show earlier this month, according to reports.
The official news agency Xinhua quoted Air Force spokesman Shen Jinke saying all its personnel were 'deeply regretful and mournful' at her 'unfortunate death'.
The J-10 is a workhorse of the Chinese air force. Two of the fighters conducted what the Pentagon called an 'unsafe' intercept of a US spy plane over the East China Sea in June.
A retired schoolteacher who organised a holiday to Thailand so he could sexually abuse children will be released from prison in three years.
Bryan Douglas Cole, 72, was also 'obsessed with the violent sexual abuse and torture of children', which angered Victorian County Court judge Mark Dean.
'You are a sadistic pedophile who has been unmasked,' he told Cole during sentencing on Monday.
Retired schoolteacher Bryan Douglas Cole, 72, has been jailed for organising a child sex abuse holiday in Thailand. Stock image.
In an Australian legal precedent, Cole pleaded guilty to preparing and planning sexual intercourse with a child in another country.
For planning a child abuse holiday in Thailand, the Melbourne man was sentenced to five years' in jail, with a minimum three-year non-parole period to be served behind bars.
Justice Dean said Cole held hundreds of images and videos of the 'repugnant and depraved' abuse of children that were uncovered on computers, USBs and an iPhone, which police seized during raids in March this year.
An 18-month old girl was among the children abused in the videos, the court was told on Monday.
Among the videos police retrieved was one the FBI deemed as 'one of the most depraved ever made'.
During an earlier hearing, Crown prosecutor Krista Breckweg said she had only encountered one or two cases that could be worse than Coles, the Herald-Sun reported.
'Its vile,' she said.
Cole, a high school teacher from 1967 to 1984, had pleaded guilty to four child pornography charges, one count of preparing to engage in sexual intercourse with a child outside Australia and transmitting communications to a child under 16.
Judge Dean said online chat logs between Cole and other abusers showed the former teacher was 'obsessed with the violent sexual abuse and torture of children'.
Justice Mark Dean described former teacher Bryan Douglas Cole as a 'sadistic paedophile' who showed no regard for children. Stock image.
Bryan Douglas Coles was 'obsessed with the violence sexual abuse and torture of children,' the Victorian County Court was told on Monday
The judge also suspected Coles' trips to Thailand and Cambodia in 2014 and 2015 were done for 'sex tourism'.
'You regard the children as little more than objects,' Justice Dean said.
He said Cole was more morally culpable as a former primary and high school teacher and education administrator.
Cole had travelled to India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka for work to recruit students, the court heard.
A psychologist has diagnosed Cole with a sex sadism disorder, paedophilia and anxiety from a recent prostate cancer diagnosis.
Coles' defence barrister Pardeep Tiwana said a recent prostate cancer diagnosis and unemployment, after a career as a teacher without complaint, had caused the offending.
'I ask you treat him as a man of good character,' he said.
The sentence took into account the 12 days Cole had already spent in custody.
She admitted her husband has repeatedly 'crossed a line' on Twitter
Melania Trump sat down with 60 Minutes' Lesley Stahl for the segment
Future first lady joined her husband's first TV interview as president elect
Melania Trump admitted she thought her husband had repeatedly gone too far on his Twitter account during her first televised interview as future first lady.
She appeared next to her husband on Sunday night in the 60 Minutes interview, which was taped on Friday at their penthouse in Trump Tower.
When grilled by host Lesley Stahl about Trump's often-inflammatory social media activity, Melania said she asked him to tone it down 'all the time'.
But she conceded that he rarely listens to her advice and 'will do what he wants to do on the end'.
Melania Trump appeared next to her husband Sunday night in a 60 Minutes interview, which was taped Friday at their penthouse in Trump Tower (pictured)
'Well, sometimes he, it got him in trouble. But it helped a lot as well. He had unbelievable following,' Melania said when pressed about Trump's Twitter account.
Stahl then asked: 'So you never say to him, 'Come on'?'
To which Melania replied: 'I did. You know, of course, I did many times, from the beginning of the campaign.
'Sometimes he listens, sometimes he doesn't.'
Trump interjected, saying: 'I'm not a big tweeter. I mean, I don't do too many, but they hit home. And they have to get a point across.'
Stahl then asked: 'If he does something that you think crossed a line, will you tell him?'
The future first lady (pictured during the interview) said she told her husband 'all the time' when he went too far on Twitter, but admitted that ultimately he did as he pleased
And Melania responded saying: 'Yes, I tell him all the time.
'I think he hears me. But he will do what he wants to do on the end [sic]. He's an adult. He knows the consequences. And I give him my opinion. And he could do whatever he likes with it.'
Despite her husband often using his Twitter account to insult those who had crossed him, Melania insisted fighting online bullying was her prime concern.
'I think it's very important because a lot of children and teenagers are getting hurt,' Melania said.
'And we need to teach them how to talk to each other, how to treat each other and to, to be able to connect with each other on the right way [sic].'
The president-elect appeared to have lost control of his Twitter account days before the election.
Melania (pictured with her husband during the interview) called Michelle Obama a 'gracious host and said the two had talked about raising children in the White House
Gawker's Real Real Donald T account, which filters out only the tweets sent from Donald Trump's Samsung Galaxy, showed that he stopped tweeting in person on October 20.
Barack Obama took a jab at the Trump campaign's apparent lack of trust in their own candidate.
'Now, if somebody can't handle a Twitter account, they can't handle the nuclear codes,' Obama joked during a rally.
'If somebody starts tweeting at three in the morning because SNL made fun of you, then you can't handle the nuclear codes.'
The president-elect appeared to have regained control of his Twitter account on Wednesday, the day after the election.
He used it to bash the protesters who have rallied against him, accusing them on Friday of being professionals paid by the media.
Donald Trump later walked back his message, saying he loved the fact that 'small groups of protesters' had passion for the country.
TOP TRUMPS: FIVE OF THE DONALD'S BIGGEST TWITTER FAILS 1) When Trump re-tweeted a picture of serial killers Fred and Rosemary West - after mistakenly believing they were a fan's parents. 2) Trump's attempt to attack Hillary Clinton over her first general election advert, fell flat on its face after he tweeted a typo. 3) He had a meltdown when Barack Obama won the 2012 US election. 4) When he got a little too involved in Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson's break-up. 5) He landed himself in hot water during Hurricane Sandy, when he appeared to try to leverage the disaster to make Obama release his college records. Advertisement
He used his Twitter account to blast the New York Times in three different tweets Sunday, saying the newspaper's coverage of his campaign had been 'bad' and 'inaccurate'.
The future presidential couple said they had asked for all of the Trump children's permission before going ahead with the campaign.
They said their son Barron, 10, was aware of the election and was 'very proud' of his father.
Stahl then asked Melania about her meeting with Michelle Obama on Thursday. Melania assured her she hadn't felt any awkwardness during their conversation.
Melania called Michelle a 'gracious host', 'very warm' and 'very nice' and said the two had talked about raising children in the White House.
The Slovenian-born future first lady said she would discuss with her parents, who now live in the United States, whether they would move to Washington, DC with the family.
Trump gives wide-ranging first TV interview as President-elect and tells divided America: 'Don't be afraid'
During Trump's first televised interview as president-elect, he touched on a wide range of topics giving a first glimpse of what his presidency might look like.
He was grilled by Stahl about potential Supreme Court appointees, accusations that his supporters have harassed African-Americans, Latinos, Muslims and gay people, and whether he would appoint a special prosecutor to go after the Clintons like he has pledged.
Trump confirmed his intention to build a wall on the border with Mexico - although he conceded it might be a fence in some places - and pledged to deport two to three millions undocumented immigrants whom he believes have criminal records.
The one-hour conversation, which aired on Sunday, was taped at his penthouse apartment inside Trump Tower.
Donald Trump's first televised interview since the election aired Sunday on CBS' 60 Minutes. Host Lesley Stahl (left) grilled him on a variety of topics and campaign promises
ON ABORTION
Stahl asked whether Trump would appoint a Supreme Court justice who would overturn Roe v Wade, the 1973 decision that made abortion legal across the United States and invalidated state laws restricting access to the procedure.
Trump pledged to appoint pro-life justices and said he was himself pro-life. He then predicted that, should Roe v Wade be overturned, abortion would become a states' rights issue again.
This means women would be able to get abortions in certain states, but would be prevented from doing so in other states - as has not been the case in 43 years.
'But then some women won't be able to get an abortion?' Stahl asked.
'Yeah, well, they'll perhaps have to go, they'll have to go to another state,' Trump replied.
When Stahl pressed him further, asking whether this status quo was okay, he added: 'Well, we'll see what happens.
'It's got a long way to go, just so you understand. That has a long, long way to go.'
Trump will have to appoint at least one Supreme Court justice, Antonin Scalia's replacement. Given the ages of the current justices, he could have to appoint four in total during his presidency.
Trump matter-of-factly envisioned an America in which women could have to travel to a different state to get an abortion in his first interview as president-elect
ON SAME-SEX MARRIAGE
The president-elect said he was 'fine' with same-sex marriage remaining as the law of the land and insisted the issue had already been settled by the Supreme Court.
Trump wouldn't say whether he supported marriage equality but said it was irrelevant to question his stance because same-sex marriage has already been entered into law.
'It's done. It - you have - these cases have gone to the Supreme Court. They've been settled. And I'm - I'm fine with that,' he said.
ON APPOINTING A SPECIAL PROSECUTOR
Trump dodged a question about whether he would actually appoint a special prosecutor to investigate Hillary Clinton's use of a private server - a promise he made during his campaign.
He said he didn't want to hurt the Clintons and called them 'good people'. Trump said he wanted to focus on healthcare and immigration instead of narrowing down on his former opponent - even though thousands of his supporters had called for him to 'lock her up'.
The president-elect declined to say if he would fulfill that promise but said he would give a 'very, very good and definitive answer' on his next 60 Minutes interview with Stahl.
ON TELLING HIS SUPPORTERS TO STOP HARASSING PEOPLE
Stahl confronted Trump with allegations made against his supporters.
They have been accused of harassing African Americans, Latinos, Muslims, gay people and of using racial slurs in several instances against the country.
Trump first said he was 'very surprised' to find out about the accusations and that he 'hated' to hear them.
When Stahl asked if he wanted to say anything to his accused supporters, Trump replied: 'I would say don't do it, that's terrible, because I'm going to bring this country together.
She brought up accusations that supporters have harassed Latinos and Muslims and Trump added: 'I am so saddened to hear that. And I say, 'Stop it.' If it - if it helps. I will say this, and I will say right to the cameras: Stop it.'
ON HIS SECRET PLAN TO DEFEAT ISIS
Trump refused to say how he intends to get rid of ISIS. He has repeatedly declined to clarify his strategy and during Sunday's interview, as he did during most of his campaign, simply repeated that he and his administration would 'destroy' the terror group.
'You have said that you're going to destroy ISIS. Now, how - how are you going to?' Stahl asked.
'I don't tell you that. I don't tell you that,' Trump replied.
Stahl pressed him, after which he added: 'I'm not going to say anything. I don't want to tell them anything. I don't want to tell anybody anything.'
ON HIRING LOBBYISTS
The president-elect responded to criticism about hiring lobbyists to take care of his transition after pledging repeatedly to drain what was seen as the establishment's swamp.
Trump swore lobbyists were the only people available for hire, adding: 'Everybody's a lobbyist down there.'
'Everything, everything down there-- there are no people-- there are all people that work -- that's the problem with the system, the system,' he continued.
He pledged to 'clean up the system', adding: 'I mean, the whole place is one big lobbyist.'
ON BUILDING THE WALL
Stahl asked Trump whether he would actually have a wall built on the border with Mexico, to which Trump replied with a definite 'yes'.
He admitted that a fence could be used in certain areas instead of a wall. 'I'm very good at this, it's called construction,' Trump added.
The president-elect then said he would begin his immigration policy by deporting or incarcerating undocumented immigrants whom he says have criminal records.
He wasn't sure yet what would become of undocumented immigrants who do not have a criminal record.
'After the border is secured and after everything gets normalized, we're going to make a determination on the people that you're talking about who are terrific people, they're terrific people but we are going to make a determination at that,' Trump said.
Stahl (pictured shaking Trump's hand) asked the president-elect whether he would actually have a wall built on the border with Mexico, to which Trump replied with a definite 'yes'
ON MEETING THE OBAMAS
Trump opened up about his 90-minute meeting with President Barack Obama after the election.
Their conversation was supposed to last only 15 minutes but the two men spoke for an hour and a half.
The chat, according to Trump, could have continued for four hours.
'I mean it was - just - in fact, it was almost hard breaking it up because we had so many things to say. And he told me - the good things and the bad things, there are things that are tough right now,' Trump said.
He and Obama talked about the Middle East, the president-elect revealed, before calling Obama 'very smart and very nice' and praising his 'great sense of humor.'
Stahl asked whether the meeting was awkward, given the searing attacks Trump and Obama launched at each other during the campaign.
'We never discussed what was said about each other', Trump said, adding there had been 'zero' awkwardness from his standpoint.
'And that's strange. I'm actually surprised to tell you that. It's - you know, a little bit strange,' he said.
ON REPEALING OBAMACARE
Trump said he would keep some parts of Obamacare, such as the measure that protects people with pre-existing conditions, which the president-elect called 'one of the strongest assets' of the law.
He then pledged to simultaneously repeal and replace Obamacare.
'It'll be just fine. we're not going to have, like, a two day period and we're not going to have-- a two year period where there's nothing,' he said.
'It will be repealed and replaced. And we'll know. And it'll be great health care for much less money.'
ON TONING DOWN HIS TWITTER ACCOUNT
Trump promised that his Twitter account would change now that he is the next president.
'I'm going to do very restrained, if I use it at all, I'm going to do very restrained,' he said.
He praised social media for helping his campaign.
'I think it helped me win all of these races where they're spending much more money than I spent,' Trump said.
'I think that social media has more power than the money they spent, and I think maybe to a certain extent, I proved that.'
ON NOT TAKING VACATIONS AND NOT ACCEPTING THE SALARY
Trump predicted he and his administration wouldn't be 'very big on vacations because there was 'so much work to be done'.
He said he wouldn't take the $400,000 presidential salary. I think I have to by law take $1, so I'll take $1 a year,' Trump added.
ON PEOPLE BEING AFRAID OF HIM
Trump believes those who are afraid of him are only afraid because they don't know him. He said some protesters were professionals - a claim he also made on Twitter Friday, the day the interview was taped.
When Stahl asked what he would say to those demonstrating against him, Trump replied: 'Don't be afraid. We are going to bring our country back. But certainly, don't be afraid. You know, we just had an election and sort of like you have to be given a little time.
Pauline Hanson said it was an underarm throw 'blow out of
Pauline Hanson's controversial adviser James Ashby is accused of throwing a phone at a fellow senior staffer during an argument.
Mr Ashby allegedly walked into the office of One Nation Senator Rod Culleton last Wednesday and quarrelled with his chief of staff Margaret Menzel.
The pair were discussing a proposed Facebook livestream but things got heated when Ms Menzel asked him to put his proposal in writing.
Pauline Hanson's controversial adviser James Ashby (R) is accused of throwing a phone at a fellow senior staffer during an argument
Mr Ashby allegedly walked into the office of One Nation Senator Rod Culleton (pictured) last Wednesday and quarrelled with his chief of staff
Ms Menzel claimed the argument became 'personal and repetitive' until Mr Ashby 'completely lost the plot' and threw the phone at her.
The veteran staffer dodged the projectile and told Daily Mail Australia she would have been injured if she didn't have such good reflexes.
'I heard the thud when it hit the carpet behind where I was standing, it was thrown with significant force,' she said.
'There was no question of his intent.'
The argument and phone throwing were said to be witnessed by two other staff but not Senator Culleton himself. The incident was reported to parliamentary officials.
Senator Derryn Hinch jokingly called it 'Russell Crowe territory' on Sunrise on Monday in reference to an infamous 2005 incident in New York.
The pair were discussing a proposed Facebook livestream but things got heated when Mr Ashby was asked to put his proposal in writing
The actor was arrested for throwing a phone at a hotel desk clerk, cutting him below the eye, when he could not get through to his wife Danielle Spencer.
Senator Hanson on Monday downplayed the incident involving the man she has jokingly called her 'adopted son' as an underarm throw that had been 'blown out of proportion'.
Margaret Menzel claimed the argument became 'personal and repetitive', until Mr Ashby 'completely lost the plot' and threw the phone at her
' It was an underhand throw. That is the news of the day, heaven help us, how my advisor threw his phone underhanded,' she told Seven News.
'How pathetic it is, if you want to talk about something else, but if this is more important to the nation, go ahead.'
Ms Menzel told DMA she was 'disappointed but not surprised' by Senator Hanson's comments.
'I wouldn't be tolerating bullying of any kind by my staff. She ought to at least have acknowledged his behaviour was unacceptable,' she said.
'I will tolerate some, but not this level - especially when it is unprovoked.'
She said other staff were concerned by Senator Hanson's 'inappropriate' comments, as well as Mr Ashby's behaviour.
Ms Menzel said Mr Ashby made many inappropriate comments during the argument and said her colleague 'should ask if his boss, who is a few years older than me, is "old and washed up" as well'.
Senator Derryn Hinch jokingly called the incident 'Russell Crowe territory' in reference to when the actor was arrested (pictured) for throwing a phone at a hotel desk clerk in 2005
Senator Hinch made the joke on Sunrise on Monday morning
The openly gay Mr Ashby is no stranger to controversy, accusing his former boss, disgraced ex-speaker Peter Slipper, of sexual harassment in 2012.
The alleged phone throwing comes amid heightened tensions in the party over accusations Mr Culleton was not legitimately elected.
Senator Hanson said in Parliament last week her embattled colleague should face should face the High Court - and that he would 'not be too happy' with her for saying so.
Senator Hanson said in Parliament last week that Senator Culleton should face should face the High Court over allegations he was not legitimately elected (pictured in happier times)
Culleton perhaps should not have been allowed to run for office because of a conviction for stealing a truck driver's $7.50 key.
Ms Menzel said problems in the party had been escalating for some time and the latest incident undermined its promise to be different from the big parties.
She insisted her boss was being treated 'abominably' and was not going anywhere.
An African-American veteran had his meal at Chili's snatched away from him by a manager after he says he was accused of being a fake soldier by a white man wearing a Donald Trump shirt.
Ernest Walker, who served in the 25th Infantry Division in the US Army, said he was in Dallas eating a free meal given out by Chili's on Veterans Day when an elderly man in a Trump shirt approached and asked him if he was in the 24th Unit.
'No, 25th,' Walker said he replied.
''They didnt let you blacks over in World War II.' Thats exactly what he said to me,' Walker told CBS 11.
Scroll down for video
Veteran Ernest Walker, far right, was denied a meal at Chili's in Dallas after he says another customer wearing a Trump shirt told the manager he was fake
The manager, whom Walker identifies as Wesley Patrick, is heard on video questioning the man's service dog
'He said he was in Germany, and that they did not let blacks serve over there,' Walker wrote on Facebook after the incident.
African-Americans did serve in World War II although officially segregated from white soldiers, according to The National World War II Museum.
After the man left, Walker, who recounted the incident on Facebook, said he was approached by a manager who told him that the elderly man had complained that Walker couldn't be a 'real soldier' because he was wearing his hat indoors.
He identified the manager as a man named Wesley Patrick and filmed the altercation.
Walker, above, as he served in 25th Infantry Division Tropic Lightning
Walker's service pooch, Barack, was with him when the incident occurred - despite wearing his red service dog vest, the manager questioned whether the pup was really a service dog
Walker received thousands of messages of support on his Facebook wall
After Walker provided the manager with his military ID and his discharge papers, the manager began to question whether the dog who was with Walker, was a real service dog.
The dog, named Barack, was wearing his red service vest and his certified service dog tags.
In the video, Walker repeatedly asks the manager, who is trying to get him to leave, whether he had just showed him his military papers. The manager refuses to answer.
Finally, the manager says 'No' but people nearby speak up to say he had seen them.
The manager then takes away Walker's meal.
'I was grossly offended, embarrassed and dehumanized,' said Walker.
'This overzealous manager comes out, and instead of talking to me man-to-man, he treated me as if I was a black man stealing a meal. Honestly, thats what it looked like,' he told CBS Local.
As protesters gathered outside of the Cedar Hill Chili's on Saturday, the chain restaurant issued an apology, saying: 'We are aware of the situation that occurred at our Chili's Cedar Hill restaurant on November 11th.
Our goal is to make every guest feel special and unfortunately we fell short on a day where we serve more than 180,000 free meals as a small token to honor our Veterans and active military for their service, hence these actions do not reflect the beliefs of our brand.
We are taking this very seriously and the leaders in our company are actively involved with the goal of making it right. Since the incident occurred, we have extended an apology and we are reaching out to the guest.'
Walker says he has received no personal apology, however.
'They still haven't validated me as a soldier,' he told . 'I just need him to say 'I see your ID, I see your DD214, and I respect you as a soldier, and as a man and as a customer,'' he told NBC5.
Thousands of people offered their support for Walker on his Facebook page, with many soldiers saying they would boycott Chili's in solidarity while hundreds excoriated Chili's on its Facebook wall.
A Master of Wine has given his tips on the best wines on the market for under $20.
Rob Geddes, from Sydney, has been immersed in every aspect of the wine industry for more than 30 years as an author, consultant, speaker, judge and educator.
He is one of 20 Master of Wines in Australia today.
But not many people can afford to buy some of the classics, so Mr Geddes was happy to point people in the right decision when it came to the best bargains.
Mr. Mick Rose 2016 (left) and Peter Lehmann Sauvignon Blanc 2016 (right) were two of Rob Geddes' bargain buys
'Sauvignon Blanc is the largest selling white wine in Australia and the top 10 bottled white wines in Australia are all from New Zealand,' Mr Geddes told Daily Mail Australia.
'But Australian Sauvignon Blanc has started to grow at a great rate too. A lot more people are now drinking domestic Sauvignon Blanc.'
With this in mind, he plumped for the Peter Lehmann Sauvignon Blanc 2016 as one of the homegrown wines to select at $19.
In Australia, 30 per cent more rose was sold last month than a year ago, and it is this wine that is becoming more popular in recent years.
Founded in 1886, Angove Family Winemakers is one of Australia's most successful wine businesses. Their Angove Organic Shiraz 2016 (left), and Angove Organic Merlot 2016 (right) also provide good value for money
Mr Geddes, a Master of Wine, is well respected in the Australian wine industry
'Rose pale dry has got a lot of people's interest up, but one of my favourites is Mr. Mick Rose 2016, which you should be able to buy for around $16,' Mr Geddes said.
As for affordable red wines, Angrove was the one that appealed most to Mr Geddes.
Founded in 1886, Angove Family Winemakers is one of Australia's most successful wine businesses - a fifth generation family company - in South Australia.
KNOWING A GOOD WINE Smell: Even before you take a sip, stick your nose in the glass and take a whiff does it smell like wine? Does it smell fruity or perhaps floral? It's important. Balance: When a wine is in balance, none of the components of acidity, tannin, alcohol, or fruit stand out as the main event. They compliment each other. Depth: The first taste is just the start of the experience. With a good wine you'll be able to detect different layers of flavour. This would suggest a multi-faceted wine with several layers of flavour. Advertisement
'They make a lot of good wines and they make a lot of good wines under $20,' he told Daily Mail Australia.
'There's a combination of factors why it's so good. It's family-owned. They have great attention to detail. For something under $20 you want something that's got fresh flavours, ripeness and is easy to drink.
'At that price you're working across many different pallets and different types of preferences.'
For this reason he chose the Angove Organic Shiraz 2016, and Angove Organic Merlot 2016 at around $17 a bottle.
'It's very hard to make under $20 red wine in large quantities of red wine every year, but Angrove, and certainly South Australia, has a stranglehold on these kind of wine,' he said.
As for affordable red wines, Angrove was the one that appealed most to Mr Geddes (top right)
Another red wine he rated was Hewitson Ned & Henry's Shiraz. At $24 is slightly more expensive but worth it.
Mr Geddes has recently been awarded various titles including visiting professor at China's A&F Northwest University, and Ambassador of Jumilla and the grape Monastrell.
Now in its 34th Edition, Australian Wine Vintages (also known as 'The Gold Book') is the essential guide to discovering the best local wines this year, no matter the price point or your level of wine knowledge.
Written by Mr Geddes, it provides detailed tasting notes of over 3500 wines from Australian and New Zealand in print, and over 13,500 in the App version.
To visit Mr Geddes' website, click here.
Paul Bromwich, 54, was captured in the Staple Hill area of Bristol this morning after absconding from HMP Leyhill
One of three dangerous prisoners on the run from serving sentences for crimes including rape, grievous bodily harm and robbery has been arrested.
Admi Headley, Wayne Maycock and Paul Bromwich absconded from HMP Leyhill in South Gloucestershire on Sunday but Bromwich was captured in the Staple Hill area of Bristol this morning.
The 54-year-old was sentenced for rape in 2001.
Avon and Somerset Police said Bromwich had been assaulted and had suffered serious facial injuries for which he was being treated in hospital.
A force spokesman said: 'We can confirm that one of the three absconders was found this morning at about 7.30am in Page Road, Staple Hill.
'Paul Bromwich had been assaulted and suffered serious facial injuries. He was taken to hospital, where he remains receiving treatment.
'We are keen to hear from anyone who was in the Page Road area this morning at about 7.30am who may have seen an altercation.'
The two other prisoners - Admi Headley and Wayne Maycock - remain at large and are considered to be a risk to the public.
The trio were last seen at HMP Leyhill, a Category D open prison at 4.45pm on Sunday and have links to the Manchester area, said the force.
Greater Manchester Police is on alert after the disappearance, less than a week since two men escaped from HMP Pentonville in north London, who have now been apprehended.
Headley, 34, who was sentenced in 2006 for rape and robbery, is described as black, 5ft 10in tall, of slim build with brown eyes and short black hair. He has a tattoo on his left arm.
The two other prisoners - Admi Headley (right) and Wayne Maycock (left) - remain at large and are considered to be a risk to the public
The men went missing from HMP Leyhill (pictured), south Gloucestershire, on November 13
Maycock, 33, - was jailed in 2006 for GBH - is white, 6ft 3in tall, of medium build with green eyes and brown hair. He has a tattoo on his right shoulder and scars on his forehead and both arms.
Police urged anyone who sees Headley or Maycock to phone 999 and tell the call handler they are phoning in relation to log 1050 of 13/11.
Trump children plan to keep taking care of his business in New York City
She appeared on 60 Minutes along with siblings Eric, Donald Jr and Tiffany
Ex-model said she was passionate about advocating for women - but 'not in a formal administrative capacity'
Ivanka Trump said she was not planning on working at the White House
Ivanka Trump vowed she would not become a part of her father's administration in an interview aired on Sunday.
The former model and businesswoman, who was a regular sight on her father's campaign trail, said she just wanted to concentrate on 'being a daughter'.
She took part in the 60 Minutes interview along with her half-sister Tiffany, their brothers Eric and Donald Jr and the future first couple.
Ivanka, 35, told host Lesley Stahl she was 'very passionate' about advocating for women - 'but not in a formal administrative capacity'.
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Donald Trump's children (from left to right) Tiffany, Donald Jr, Eric and Ivanka joined him and his wife Melania for a 60 Minutes interview that aired on Sunday evening
'I'm going to be a daughter. But I've - I've said throughout the campaign that I am very passionate about certain issues. And that I want to fight for them,' she said.
'Wage equality, childcare. These are things that are very important for me.'
She said she was 'very passionate' about education and promoting 'more opportunities for women'.
'So you know there're a lot of things that I feel deeply, strongly about. But not in a formal administrative capacity,' Ivanka added.
Instead, the Trump children plan on staying in New York City and keep taking care of their father's business.
Both Ivanka and her father said it didn't matter whether his campaign had damaged the Trump brand.
Ivanka (pictured during the interview) denied she would become part of her father's administration. Instead, the Trump children plan to keep managing his business
The former model and businesswoman (far right), who was a regular sight on her father's campaign trail, said she just wanted to concentrate on 'being a daughter'
Wealthy Trump Tower residents have said they wanted to move out after protesters starting occupying their doorstep in the days after the election, a real estate broker told the New York Post.
Residents at Trump Place in New York City signed a petition in October asking for the then-GOP nominee's name to be removed.
Bookings at Trump hotels went down by 59 per cent during the first half of 2016, according to travel search engine Hipmunk.
But neither Ivanka nor the president-elect think this matters.
'This is so much more important and more serious. And so I- you know, that's the focus,' Ivanka said on 60 Minutes.
'I think what Ivanka's trying to say, "Who cares? Who cares?" This is big league stuff. This is our country, her father continued.
'Our country is going bad. We're going to save our country. I don't care about hotel occupancy. It's peanuts compared to what we're doing.'
Tiffany (left, second row), Trump's youngest daughter, who made fewer appearances on the campaign trail than her older siblings, also took part in the 60 Minutes interview
During Trump's campaign, Ivanka was often credited with softening the tycoon's image and she was even heralded as the 'greatest asset Trump has'.
She was forced to defend her father over claims of sexual abuse and apologized about his 'inappropriate and offensive' comments from a 2005 interview.
Ivanka also insisted her father is 'not a groper' in an angry response to a New York Times article that accused him of mistreating women.
The other Trump children also said they wouldn't be part of their father's administration.
Eric predicted that, now that the president-elect has had to step away from his business, he would rely on his children more than ever.
Donald Jr, Ivanka and Eric are all executive vice-presidents at the Trump Organization.
Rudy Giuliani, a senior Trump adviser, told CNN's Jake Tapper on State Of The Union that Trump couldn't put his business in a blind trust because that would put his children out of a job.
Eric (right, back row) predicted that, now that the president-elect has had to step away from his business, he would rely on his children more than ever
Blind trusts enable people in public office to have their private business interests handled by an independent entity so as to avoid conflicts of interest.
'He would basically put his children out of work. Theyd have to go start a whole new business, that would set up the whole set of new problems,' Giuliani said.
The Trump children cannot work in their father's administration because of rules against nepotism, which Giuliani took to mean they would be out of a job if they couldn't keep working at their father's business.
'And remember they cant work in the government because of the government rule against nepotism, so youd be putting them out of work,' Giuliani added.
Tiffany, Trump's youngest daughter, who made fewer appearances on the campaign trail than her older siblings, took part in the 60 Minutes interview.
She called his campaign and victory awe-inspiring.
When Stahl asked the Trump children to describe the night of their father's victory, Ivanka said: 'It is hard to put into words the experience or the emotion when your father becomes president of the United States of America.
'We had enormous pride, joy. It's incredibly exciting.'
Eric meanwhile recalled seeing 'the states falling' and bringing in more electoral college votes.
He said the family high-fived and exchanged hugs while their father was the calmest.
Trump gives wide-ranging first TV interview as President-elect and tells divided America: 'Don't be afraid'
During Trump's first televised interview as president-elect, he touched on a wide range of topics giving a first glimpse of what his presidency might look like.
He was grilled by Stahl about potential Supreme Court appointees, accusations that his supporters have harassed African-Americans, Latinos, Muslims and gay people, and whether he would appoint a special prosecutor to go after the Clintons like he has pledged.
Trump confirmed his intention to build a wall on the border with Mexico - although he conceded it might be a fence in some places - and pledged to deport two to three millions undocumented immigrants whom he believes have criminal records.
The one-hour conversation, which aired on Sunday, was taped at his penthouse apartment inside Trump Tower.
Donald Trump's first televised interview since the election aired Sunday on CBS' 60 Minutes. Host Lesley Stahl (left) grilled him on a variety of topics and campaign promises
ON ABORTION
Stahl asked whether Trump would appoint a Supreme Court justice who would overturn Roe v Wade, the 1973 decision that made abortion legal across the United States and invalidated state laws restricting access to the procedure.
Trump pledged to appoint pro-life justices and said he was himself pro-life. He then predicted that, should Roe v Wade be overturned, abortion would become a states' rights issue again.
This means women would be able to get abortions in certain states, but would be prevented from doing so in other states - as has not been the case in 43 years.
'But then some women won't be able to get an abortion?' Stahl asked.
'Yeah, well, they'll perhaps have to go, they'll have to go to another state,' Trump replied.
When Stahl pressed him further, asking whether this status quo was okay, he added: 'Well, we'll see what happens.
'It's got a long way to go, just so you understand. That has a long, long way to go.'
Trump will have to appoint at least one Supreme Court justice, Antonin Scalia's replacement. Given the ages of the current justices, he could have to appoint four in total during his presidency.
Trump matter-of-factly envisioned an America in which women could have to travel to a different state to get an abortion in his first interview as president-elect
ON SAME-SEX MARRIAGE
The president-elect said he was 'fine' with same-sex marriage remaining as the law of the land and insisted the issue had already been settled by the Supreme Court.
Trump wouldn't say whether he supported marriage equality but said it was irrelevant to question his stance because same-sex marriage has already been entered into law.
'It's done. It - you have - these cases have gone to the Supreme Court. They've been settled. And I'm - I'm fine with that,' he said.
ON APPOINTING A SPECIAL PROSECUTOR
Trump dodged a question about whether he would actually appoint a special prosecutor to investigate Hillary Clinton's use of a private server - a promise he made during his campaign.
He said he didn't want to hurt the Clintons and called them 'good people'. Trump said he wanted to focus on healthcare and immigration instead of narrowing down on his former opponent - even though thousands of his supporters had called for him to 'lock her up'.
The president-elect declined to say if he would fulfill that promise but said he would give a 'very, very good and definitive answer' on his next 60 Minutes interview with Stahl.
ON TELLING HIS SUPPORTERS TO STOP HARASSING PEOPLE
Stahl confronted Trump with allegations made against his supporters.
They have been accused of harassing African Americans, Latinos, Muslims, gay people and of using racial slurs in several instances against the country.
Trump first said he was 'very surprised' to find out about the accusations and that he 'hated' to hear them.
When Stahl asked if he wanted to say anything to his accused supporters, Trump replied: 'I would say don't do it, that's terrible, because I'm going to bring this country together.
She brought up accusations that supporters have harassed Latinos and Muslims and Trump added: 'I am so saddened to hear that. And I say, 'Stop it.' If it - if it helps. I will say this, and I will say right to the cameras: Stop it.'
ON HIS SECRET PLAN TO DEFEAT ISIS
Trump refused to say how he intends to get rid of ISIS. He has repeatedly declined to clarify his strategy and during Sunday's interview, as he did during most of his campaign, simply repeated that he and his administration would 'destroy' the terror group.
'You have said that you're going to destroy ISIS. Now, how - how are you going to?' Stahl asked.
'I don't tell you that. I don't tell you that,' Trump replied.
Stahl pressed him, after which he added: 'I'm not going to say anything. I don't want to tell them anything. I don't want to tell anybody anything.'
ON HIRING LOBBYISTS
The president-elect responded to criticism about hiring lobbyists to take care of his transition after pledging repeatedly to drain what was seen as the establishment's swamp.
Trump swore lobbyists were the only people available for hire, adding: 'Everybody's a lobbyist down there.'
'Everything, everything down there-- there are no people-- there are all people that work -- that's the problem with the system, the system,' he continued.
He pledged to 'clean up the system', adding: 'I mean, the whole place is one big lobbyist.'
Stahl (pictured shaking Trump's hand) asked the president-elect whether he would actually have a wall built on the border with Mexico, to which Trump replied with a definite 'yes'
ON BUILDING THE WALL
Stahl asked Trump whether he would actually have a wall built on the border with Mexico, to which Trump replied with a definite 'yes'.
He admitted that a fence could be used in certain areas instead of a wall. 'I'm very good at this, it's called construction,' Trump added.
The president-elect then said he would begin his immigration policy by deporting or incarcerating undocumented immigrants whom he says have criminal records.
He wasn't sure yet what would become of undocumented immigrants who do not have a criminal record.
'After the border is secured and after everything gets normalized, we're going to make a determination on the people that you're talking about who are terrific people, they're terrific people but we are going to make a determination at that,' Trump said.
ON MEETING THE OBAMAS
Trump opened up about his 90-minute meeting with President Barack Obama after the election.
Their conversation was supposed to last only 15 minutes but the two men spoke for an hour and a half.
The chat, according to Trump, could have continued for four hours.
'I mean it was - just - in fact, it was almost hard breaking it up because we had so many things to say. And he told me - the good things and the bad things, there are things that are tough right now,' Trump said.
He and Obama talked about the Middle East, the president-elect revealed, before calling Obama 'very smart and very nice' and praising his 'great sense of humor.'
Stahl asked whether the meeting was awkward, given the searing attacks Trump and Obama launched at each other during the campaign.
'We never discussed what was said about each other', Trump said, adding there had been 'zero' awkwardness from his standpoint.
'And that's strange. I'm actually surprised to tell you that. It's - you know, a little bit strange,' he said.
ON REPEALING OBAMACARE
Trump said he would keep some parts of Obamacare, such as the measure that protects people with pre-existing conditions, which the president-elect called 'one of the strongest assets' of the law.
He then pledged to simultaneously repeal and replace Obamacare.
'It'll be just fine. we're not going to have, like, a two day period and we're not going to have-- a two year period where there's nothing,' he said.
'It will be repealed and replaced. And we'll know. And it'll be great health care for much less money.'
ON TONING DOWN HIS TWITTER ACCOUNT
Trump promised that his Twitter account would change now that he is the next president.
'I'm going to do very restrained, if I use it at all, I'm going to do very restrained,' he said.
He praised social media for helping his campaign.
'I think it helped me win all of these races where they're spending much more money than I spent,' Trump said.
'I think that social media has more power than the money they spent, and I think maybe to a certain extent, I proved that.'
ON NOT TAKING VACATIONS AND NOT ACCEPTING THE SALARY
Trump predicted he and his administration wouldn't be 'very big on vacations because there was 'so much work to be done'.
He said he wouldn't take the $400,000 presidential salary. I think I have to by law take $1, so I'll take $1 a year,' Trump added.
ON PEOPLE BEING AFRAID OF HIM
Trump believes those who are afraid of him are only afraid because they don't know him. He said some protesters were professionals - a claim he also made on Twitter Friday, the day the interview was taped.
When Stahl asked what he would say to those demonstrating against him, Trump replied: 'Don't be afraid. We are going to bring our country back. But certainly, don't be afraid. You know, we just had an election and sort of like you have to be given a little time.
President-elect Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping established a 'clear sense of mutual respect' in a telephone call on Sunday night, Trump's presidential transition office said early on Monday.
In a statement, the office said Trump thanked Xi for his congratulations after winning Tuesday's presidential election over Democrat Hillary Clinton.
'During the call, the leaders established a clear sense of mutual respect for one another, and President-elect Trump stated that he believes the two leaders will have one of the strongest relationships for both countries moving forward,' it said.
However, the state-run Global Times reported that Xi told the billionaire businessman that cooperation was the only choice for relations between the two countries, claiming he would be a 'naive' fool to launch an all-out trade war against China.
President-elect Donald Trump (left) and Chinese President Xi Jinping (right) established a 'clear sense of mutual respect' in a telephone call on Sunday night, Trump's camp said
In a statement, Trump's (above) office said the Republican thanked Xi for his congratulations after winning Tuesday's presidential election over Democrat Hillary Clinton
Trump had lambasted China throughout the U.S. election campaign, drumming up headlines with his pledges to slap 45 per cent tariffs on imported Chinese goods and to label the country a currency manipulator on his first day in office.
Back in August at a rally he accused Beijing of 'the greatest theft in the history of the world.'
His election has injected uncertainty into bilateral relations at a time when Beijing hopes for stability as it faces daunting reform challenges at home, a slowing economy, and a leadership reshuffle of its own that will put a new party elite around Xi in late 2017.
'The facts prove that cooperation is the only correct choice for China and the United States,' China Central Television (CCTV) cited Xi as telling Trump.
'The two sides must strengthen coordination, promote the two countries' economic development and global economic growth, expand all areas of exchange and cooperation, ensure the two countries' people obtain more tangible benefits, and push for better development going forward in China-U.S. relations,' Xi said.
In addition, it's been alleged that if the real estate mogul 'wrecks' the trade agreement, a number of US industries will be impaired.
'A batch of Boeing orders will be replaced by Airbus. US auto and iPhone sales in China will suffer a setback, and US soybean and maize imports will be halted. China can also limit the number of Chinese students studying in the US,' the Global Times reported.
'Making things difficult for China politically will do him no good.
'Finally the new president will be condemned for his recklessness, ignorance and incompetence.'
'Countermeasures' and a 'tit-for-tat approach' from Beijing allegedly would be triggered immediately by any new tariffs inflicted by Trump.
However, the state-run Global Times reported that Xi (above) told the billionaire businessman that cooperation was the only choice for relations between the two countries and he would be a 'naive' fool to launch an all-out trade war against China
In addition, CCTV said Trump told Xi he was willing to work with China to strengthen U.S.-China cooperation and that he believed U.S.-China relations can 'definitely achieve greater development'.
The two agreed to maintain close communication, meet soon, and exchange views on issues of concern to both sides, CCTV said.
Last week,the country's foreign ministry used more diplomatic language to warn the Republican not to 'square up' to Beijing, The Guardian reported.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Lu Kang told reporters last week: 'I believe that any US politician, if he takes the interests of his own people first, will adopt a policy that is conducive to the economic and trade cooperation between China and the US.'
A 100-year-old woman has been pulled alive from the rubble of her farmhouse after it was brought to the ground by New Zealand's massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake.
Margaret Edgar was asleep inside her country home with her son and daughter-in-law when the enormous tremor struck in the early hours of Monday morning.
The impact of the quake not only completely destroyed her 20-room farmhouse, but also caused all three inside to be trapped beneath the rubble.
Sadly the collapse killed Ms Edgar's son Louis, however she and her daughter-in-law managed to be pulled alive from the rubble by rescue crews after a lengthy search.
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Margaret Edgar, 100, was incredibly pulled alive from the rubble of her home which was reduced to rubble by the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that hit New Zealand on Monday
The old farmhouse Ms Edgar had lived in since 1952 was brought to the ground by the quake. Her son Louis was killed by it's collapse, while her daughter-in-law also survived
The centenarian had lived at the popular Elms homestead, near Kaikoura, since 1952, stuff.co.nz reports.
Ms Edgar had reportedly run a camp at the property with her son and daughter-in-law.
The incident occurred near where a tsunami up to five metres high hit at around 2am on Monday morning in the wake of the earthquake.
So far New Zealand prime minister John Key has confirmed there have been two deaths as a result of the earthquake.
The enormous earthquake caused major damage to roads across New Zealand
Tessa Prentice, 20, also had her family's home massively damaged in the earthquake
Police are also searching for a truck driver who has not been heard from since 12.30am, just after the first quake hit.
The man is believed to have worked for Christchurch-based trucking company STL Linehaul Ltd.
A spokesperson for the company said there was 'a whole heap of drivers' in the area and they were working busily to account for their whereabouts.
A road lies burried beneath tonnes of dirt after a mountainside collapsed along the New Zealand coast, near Kaikoura
More guests are seen here huddled under yellow blankets in the early hours of Monday
'No chance': ABC Insiders host Barrie Cassidy was adamant Trump could not win the election. He did
'Donald Trump cannot win'. 'No chance'. 'You can 'stick a fork in him, Trump's done'. 'See ya later, d***head'.
Those are the very confident words of some of Australia's most prominent journalists and commentators before Donald Trump proved them all wrong last week.
Several of the country's most respected media identities are eating humble pie after boldly predicting a Hillary Clinton win at the U.S. presidential election.
Barrie Cassidy, the host of the ABC's Insiders program, had long dismissed the idea Trump could win, pointing to U.S. opinion polls.
'No chance,' he said of Trump's chances in September.
He even declared Mrs Clinton was winning on election night.
'It's going to be an early night after all,' he tweeted just before midday Tuesday (AEDT).
'Trump cannot win. The nightmare is over.
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From 'no chance' to President: Donald Trump will be the 45th leader of the United States
Former U.S. secretary of state Hillary Clinton was pegged as the frontrunner in the presidential race. She lost the Electoral College - but won the popular vote
Cassidy continued: 'Trump is not defying the polls anywhere. Clinton on the other hand demonstrably is'.
But the 'nightmare' was just beginning.
The major U.S. TV networks called the election for Trump about 2.30pm.
'Hillary had called trump (sic) and conceded,' Mr Cassidy wrote.
Hours before Election Day had started, Fairfax Chief Correspondent Paul McGeough was similarly sure of the outcome.
'On Wednesday, Americans will awake from a nightmare,' he wrote last week.
'Donald Trump will not be their president.
'Trump is likely to be a sore loser, ready to inflict serial new nightmares on the U.S. before he's done with politics'.
Long before polls had closed, News Corp Australia's foreign affairs expert Greg Sheridan said: 'This election has been over for weeks'.
'You can take it to the bank - the American election is effectively all over, Hillary Clinton has won,' Mr Sheridan said.
'She is ahead in the polls and every technical, financial and logistic advantage lies with her.
'Donald Trump has given everyone a tremendous fright, but he cannot pull off victory from here.'
'Donald Trump will not be the president': Both Fairfax chief correspondent Paul McGeough and former Liberal staffer Peta Credlin were certain Hillary Clinton had the election won
News Corp foreign affairs expert Greg Sheridan said the election was 'effectively all over' - with Mrs Clinton winning - before the polls had even closed
Bruce Wolpe, an aide to former prime minister Julia Gillard, said the American people were blessed with too much wisdom to elect Trump.
Julia Gillard's chief of staff Bruce Wolpe said Clinton would win and 'take the country forward'
'The American people in their wisdom will not allow themselves to be led into the abyss by a person so dangerous and destructive of American democracy and values something he has proved every day he has been a candidate for President of the United States.
'It is Hillary Clinton who will claim victory, and take the country forward.'
Peta Credlin, a Sky News commentator, agreed Mrs Clinton would win.
'She will win the election tomorrow because she's not Donald Trump.
'But she won't win it well enough because she's Hillary Clinton'.
Some 18 months before the U.S. election, writer Anne Summers (left, with former prime minister Julia Gillard) said of Trump: 'He is popular but he won't be president'
They were joined in their definitive statements by SBS writer Alex McKinnon, who declared Trump was 'done' weeks before the election.
Writing after the last presidential debate, he said: 'It's over.
'Not just the third and final debate, but the prospect, however slim, of Donald Trump becoming the 45th President of the United States.
'We can relax - just for a moment - and let that fact really sink in.'
Long even before that, writer Anne Summers said the billionaire property developer was 'popular but he won't be president.'
'(Trump) won't be the Republican nominee, but he could well be a third-party candidate who splits the conservative vote.
'This is what happened in 1992 when the Texas industrialist Ross Perot won 19 per cent of the popular vote and, as a result, is widely seen as having delivered the White House to Bill Clinton,' she said.
Both Waleed Aly (left) and U.S. Studies Centre senior fellow Tom Switzer (right) believed Hillary Clinton would probably win
Just prior to the vote, Daily Telegraph columnist Tim Blair said the 'accurate' polls appeared to show Clinton by a nose.
'If the latest US election polls are accurate - and they've been very accurate in recent elections - we're looking at a narrow Hillary Clinton victory on Wednesday.
'If the polls are wrong, and the big rally crowds and evident enthusiasm among Trump supporters are more accurate guides, we could be looking instead at a Trump blowout.'
The Project host Waleed Aly said Clinton would 'probably' be the winner. As did U.S. Studies Centre senior fellow Tom Switzer, who said she had the 'electoral arithmetic' locked up.
'I clearly spoke too soon': Clementine Ford saw a Hillary Clinton victory in-the-making - but later retracted her remarks
As the results rolled in last Tuesday, Fairfax columnist and feminist author Clementine Ford believed the idea of 'President Trump' was coming to an end.
'Donald Trump's presidential chances grow weaker by the minute. See ya later, d***head,' she said.
Hours later, she admitted: 'I clearly spoke too soon.
'Not over yet but holy F***.'
Mr Trump clinched at least 290 Electoral College votes, more than the 270 needed to win.
He will be sworn in as the nation's 45th president January 20.
A top ISIS commander has branded Donald Trump 'a complete maniac' whose hatred towards Muslims will aid their cause.
Abu Omar Khorasani, who heads up the terror group in Afghanistan, said Trump's shock election victory would be used to recruit disaffected youths in the West.
Jihadists plan to use Trump as a propaganda tool to rally thousands of new fighters and inspire terror attacks across the world.
A top ISIS commander has branded Donald Trump 'a complete maniac' whose hatred towards Muslims will help aid their cause
'This guy is a complete maniac,' Khorasani told Reuters.
'His utter hate towards Muslims will make our job much easier because we can recruit thousands.'
At one point during his campaign, Trump called for a 'total and complete' ban on Muslims entering the US.
The president-elect later backtracked and said he would temporarily suspend immigration from countries that have 'a history of exporting terrorism.'
Khorasani described President Barack Obama as a moderate infidel with at least a little brain in comparison to Trump.
He added: 'Our leaders were closely following the US election but it was unexpected that the Americans will dig their own graves and they did so.'
Trump has already featured in one video (shown) released by ISIS to claim responsibility for the Brussels attacks
Trump has already featured in one video released by ISIS to claim responsibility for the Brussels attacks.
It showed an image of Trump going up in flames as he repeated his declaration that Brussels was a 'horror show'.
Trump talked tough against militant groups on the campaign trail, promising to defeat 'radical Islamic terrorism just as we won the Cold War.'
But he has offered few details on his plans to combat various radical groups, including IS, the Taliban and al Qaeda, which represent a wide spectrum of political views.
'He does not differentiate between extremist and moderate Islamist trends and, at the same time, he overlooks (the fact) that his extremism will generate extremism in return,' Iraq's powerful Shi'ite Muslim cleric Moqtada al-Sadr said in a statement.
Sadr's political reform movement, which commands thousands of followers, is a staunch opponent of the radical Sunni movements IS and al Qaeda, and unlike them has not waged or promoted attacks in the West.
Abu Omar Khorasani (centre), who heads up the terror group in Afghanistan, said Trump's shock election victory would be used to recruit disaffected youths in the West
The US has seen a handful of attacks inspired by Islamist militant groups, including the June massacre of 49 people at an Orlando nightclub by a gunman who called a TV station swearing allegiance to ISIS.
Officials have warned the country will likely face a higher risk of similar attacks as IS urges supporters to launch attacks at home instead of joining its fight in the Middle East.
Al Qaeda, which has proven resilient more than 15 years after launching the 9/11 attacks on New York and the Pentagon, has yet to comment on Trump's victory.
The militant group will likely respond after Trump's first speeches as president, anticipating they will be able to exploit his comments to win support, said Hisham al Hashemi, who advises the Iraqi government on Sunni jihadist movements.
'Al Qaeda is known for its recruitment strategy that heavily quotes speeches of the White House and other Western officials,' he told Reuters.
Trump's office did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the statements from the militants.
Jihadists plan to use Trump as a propaganda tool to rally thousands of new fighters and inspire terror attacks across the world
Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr (pictured) said Trump does 'not differentiate between extremist and moderate Islam'
Even if Trump tones down his anti-Muslim comments when he takes office in January, analysts say his statements during the campaign trail were enough to fuel the militants' propaganda machine.
'Militants will still use those quotes,' said Matthew Henman, head of IHS Jane's Terrorism and Insurgency Centre.
'The key thing militant groups, particularly Islamic State and al Qaeda, depend on for recruitment purposes is convincing Muslims in the Western world that the West hates them and won't ever accept them as part of their society.'
A senior Taliban commander in Afghanistan said the group, whose resurgence is undermining efforts to end America's longest war, had kept track of all of Trump's speeches and anti-Muslim comments.
'If he does what he warned in his election campaign, I am sure it will provoke Muslim Ummah (community) across the world and jihadi organisations can exploit it,' said the militant leader, who declined to be identified because of strict Taliban policy that only its official spokesman can make statements.
Shortly after Trump's victory, several jihadist sympathisers took to social media to declare this as an opportunity for their cause.
A teen's Sweet 16 party turned sour when a shooting broke out, leaving four people wounded and one man seriously injured at the party in Connecticut.
More than 300 people were celebrating the milestone birthday at the Circolo Sportivo, an Italian-American club at 2500 Park Avenue in Bridgeport, when shots rang out as crowds milled in the parking lot around 10:45pm Saturday, reported WFSB.
Five victims, four male and one female, were rushed to the hospital.
Five people were shot at the Circolo Sportivo Italian American Club on Saturday night
The club had been rented for a Sweet 16 party and booze wasn't served but that didn't stop mayhem, above, glass on the door can be seen smashed in following the melee
Police say gatecrashers in a car with a New York license plate sparked a fight and shot into the crowd
None had life threatening injuries but one man was in serious condition after being shot in the legs, according to CT Post.
The names and ages of the victims weren't immediately available.
The melee reportedly started after some unwanted guests had crashed the party. A fight broke out inside the club and then moved to the parking lot outside, according to the outlet.
Bridgeport Police Chief Armando Perez blamed the club for not hiring extra security for the evening. 'This was so preventable,' he said.
Glass on the door is shattered after the shooting. Police chief Armando Perez says the incident could have been much worse if the suspects weren't such 'poor shooters'
Perez said there were at least two suspects involved in the shooting and they arrived in a car bearing New York plates.
Most of the party-goers were in their teens or early twenties, he said, and that witnesses said that guns had been displayed during the party and that other shots were fired near the street.
'We are upset,' one club member who declined to give his name told the outlet. 'This is our social home. But I guess its the same old story. Its crazy. How do these kids get these guns?'
The member said that the club had been expecting approximately 100 people but instead triple that showed up.
'They get it out on Facebook,' another club member said/ 'Its not the clubs fault. It was far more than we wanted.'
Perez said the shooting could have been much worse but for the suspects' apparent lack of aim. 'Its a good thing they are poor shooters,' he said.
Trisha Meyer was arrested last week for endangering her 14-year-old daughter after police found dangerous animals roaming around their Houston, Texas home
A mother who let exotic and dangerous animals roam around her home has been charged with endangering her 14-year-old daughter.
Trisha Meyer was arrested last week after police found she allowed three tigers, a cougar, a skunk, a fox and several monkeys to wander freely through her home in Houston, Texas.
Police were initially called to her home after she allegedly scammed a California man who had tried to buy a kitten from her for $3,000.
They found the dangerous animals roaming through the living room, bedroom and kitchen as her teenage daughter petted some of them, Click2Houston reports.
Meyer admitted to police the animals could be dangerous and that some of the monkeys were 'vicious' and one attacked people.
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Police found Meyer allowed three tigers, a cougar, a skunk, a fox and several monkeys to wander freely through her home
Meyer admitted to police the animals could be dangerous and that some of the monkeys were 'vicious' and one attacked people
She said the animals walk around freely in her home and she only locks up the tigers when she goes out.
Police found Meyer had the correct permits for the tigers, but not for the skunks and foxes.
She was arrested on November 7 after fleeing to Nevada.
Her animals were confiscated and placed in the care of BARC Animal Shelter and Adoptions.
Meyer is facing charges of theft and endangering a child. She is being held on a $2,000 bail in the Nye County, Nevada, Jail.
A burglar dressed as a ninja and broke into a comic book and game shop in Alaska so he could steal a traditional Japanese sword.
The suspect is seen walking into the Bosco's store in Anchorage and swiping the Katana, a weapon used by the samurai.
Staff told KTVA it was the only item taken during the break-in on Friday morning.
Depending on the type of sword and handle, the item can be priced from anywhere between $50 and hundreds of dollars.
It is unclear how much the missing sword was worth.
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The ninja appeared to get into an empty room used by the comic book store - surveillance cam caught the suspect entering through a window on the top left
Once in a storage space, the ninja slunk towards the main shopping room
In a video of the burglary posted to YouTube, the suspect dressed in a black, gray, and white striped 'ninja' costume can be seen sneaking into an empty room and appearing to enter the store through a window.
The stealth 'ninja' then enters what appears to be a storage room, and then the main shopping area.
The suspect appeared to know exactly where the sword was kept.
Helmick said the point of entry has been beefed up but wouldn't elaborate.
The suspect, circled right) grabbed a white Katana sword and exited
He also said the Anchorage Police came to the scene immediately, but added that since a police officer was shot the day after the strange theft, he did not expect the sword-stealing ninja to be top priority.
'It was fun watching them on the video footage go about what must have been a very hair raising task,' he said of police.
Anyone with information is urged to call the Anchorage police at 907-786-8900 or contact Bosco's.
Seen holding the sword (right) the suspect took off into the dark of the early morning
Shortly after the shooting, a third woman walked into the hospital with a gunshot wound, as police
Police are investigating a tragic shooting in Florida which left two women and a child death and two others injured.
The deadly shooting happened in the Moncrief area of Jacksonville in front of the Lil' Albert Food Store around 6:00pm on Sunday, WJXT reported.
Four people - a man, two women and an infant - were shot inside of a car that was located on Cleveland Road near the Cleveland Arms Apartments.
One of the women died in the car before she could be transported to the hospital.
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Heartbreaking: The deadly shooting happened in the Moncrief area of Jacksonville in front of the Lil' Albert Food Store around 6:00pm on Sunday (scene above)
Four people - a man, two women and an infant - were shot inside of a car that was located on Cleveland Road near the Cleveland Arms Apartments (scene above)
Director of Investigations and Homeland Security for the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office Ron Lundeay said the other three victims were rushed to UF Health Jacksonville where the other woman and infant died a short time later.
Lundeay said shortly after the shooting, a third woman walked into the hospital with a gunshot wound.
Police believe that she was involved in the same shooting. Her and the man's condition is unknown at this time.
Police are investigating the incident and suspect that it was related to an earlier dispute between two women.
Lundeay said that all five victims were shot with a handgun. He also said other people may have been shot but they are unable to definitively say as of Sunday night.
'It's heartbreaking to know that an infant was shot and killed. It's a sad day for Jacksonville,' Lundeay said of the incident.
One of the women died in the car before she could be transported to the hospital. The other three victims were rushed to UF Health Jacksonville where the other woman and infant died a short time later (scene above)
Police are investigating the incident and suspect that it was related to an earlier dispute between two women. The identities of the victims have not been released and authorities have not released the name of the shooting suspect (scene above)
'It's a sad day for everyone who lives in this area and it's a sad day for those that are out here investigating this terrible crime.'
Officers stayed on the scene for hours searching for evidence, canvassing the neighborhood, interviewing witnesses and processing evidence.
It's unclear how many shots were fired. The identities of the victims have not been released and authorities have not released the name of the suspect.
If anyone knows anything about this crime, or has any description of any potential suspects, please contact the sheriff's office at 904-630-0500.
She has taken the iPhone to Apple and they are investigating the issue
She suffered second degree burns and claims the iPhone caused the scar
Horrific burns on a pregnant woman's arm caused by an iPhone 7 have highlighted the dangers of overheating electronics.
Melanie Tan Pelaez, a mother from Sydney, claims she suffered second degree burns from her smartphone after falling asleep with it while it was charging.
In the morning she awoke with a pins and needles sensation in her right arm before spotting the bright red burns and welts and heading to hospital, The Daily Telegraph reported.
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Horrific burns on a pregnant woman's arm claimed to be caused by an iPhone 7 have highlighted the dangers of overheating electronics
Ms Tan Pelaez went to the hospital and she was told to check around her bed to find what could have caused the mark of the burn, which she thinks was an iPhone (Stock Image)
Ms Tan Pelaez went to the hospital and she was told to check around her bed to find what could have caused the mark of the burn.
After inspection and checking what fits with her burns she thinks the iPhone 7 and the power cord were the cause of the second degree burn.
After finding what could be the cause, Ms Tan Pelaez went to Apple, according to News.com.au.
'Apple took my phone and details, but said it couldn't have been the phone because it didn't have a distinct smell,' she told the publication.
'I then got a call from a member of the executive team who told me they were now handing the matter and had sent the phone to a senior technician in California for testing.'
After inspection and checking what fits with her burns she thinks the iPhone 7 and the power cord were the cause of the second degree burn (Stock Image)
The horrific burns have left her with a scar, which she has now been to the plastic surgeon to find out her options.
Ms Tan Pelaez took to Facebook to make sure others were aware of her terrible incident.
Apple are working with her to investigate the incident.
American Apparel has filed for bankruptcy for the second time in just over a year.
The retailer has agreed to sell its American Apparel brand to Canadian clothing manufacturer Gilden Activewear in a deal worth $66million.
The cult fashion brand founded by Dov Charney has struggled to overcome years of losses and rising competition online.
American Apparel has filed for bankruptcy for the second time in just over a year
American Apparel listed assets and liabilities in the range of $100 million to $500 million, according to a Delaware court filing.
Canadian manufacturer Gilden Activewear said it had agreed to buy the American Apparel brand and certain assets for about $66million.
However, Gilden said in a statement that it will not be purchasing any retail stores.
The retailer has agreed to sell the brand to Canadian clothing manufacturer Gilden Activewear in a deal worth $66million
The bankruptcy filing allows American Apparel to hold an auction for its assets and business under which Gildan's proposed acquisition would constitute the initial bid.
Last week, it was announced that American Apparels UK business would be put into administration amid tough trading conditions across Britain and America.
American Apparel filed its first bankruptcy in October 2015 following a steep drop in sales and drawn out legal battle with found Charney, who was ousted in 2014.
The sister of controversial nightclub owner John Ibrahim and former bikie boss Sam Ibrahim has admitted plotting with her de facto partner to supply guns.
Jazz Dior, 46, and Elvis Mileski, 44, pleaded guilty in the District Court in Sydney today to one charge of conspiring with each other to unlawfully supply firearms in early 2014.
An agreed statement of facts tendered in court said phone taps captured Mileski negotiating to obtain firearms and sell them with Dior's help between January and March 2014.
Jazz Dior has pleaded guilty to plotting to supply drugs with her de facto partner in early 2014
Ms Dior is the sister of nightclub owner John Ibrahim (pictured) and former bikie boss Sam Ibrahim
The couple were arrested in April 2014 after police raided properties in Sydney and the Illawarra region.
At the time of the raids police said they seized 18 weapons, including an M1 military-grade assault rifle, a standard rifle, three pistols, two shotguns and 11 handguns.
According to the agreed facts, a February 2014 phone tap picked up Mileski telling Dior that he needed another $23,000 on top of the $10,000 he had for six 'brand new things, in the boxes', meaning firearms.
He told Dior the price of each was 'five and a half' and he'd already 'knocked off 15K on the deal'.
Ms Dior and her solicitor, Abbas Soukie, leaving the Downing Centre Court, after Ms Dior pleaded guilty to one charge of conspiracy to unlawfully supply firearms
The couple were arrested in April 2014 after police raided properties in Sydney and the Illawarra region
Mileski was heard saying he needed to hire a car to pick up the goods rather than use his and Dior's car, because he didn't want to take risks. Later phone intercepts captured the couple discussing when Mileski planned to pick up the firearms.
The pair are due to face a sentence hearing in June next year. After they pleaded guilty the Crown applied to revoke their bail, but Judge Paul Conlon refused the bid.
He noted they had previously offered to forfeit sums of money as security, and ordered they begin reporting to police twice a week to further reduce the risk of a bail breach.
The embattled Sydney property developer has spent past month in Europe
Embattled Sydney property developer Salim Mehajer has been publicly arrested by local police in the Spanish party island of Ibiza after an argument with a taxi driver.
Footage obtained by A Current Affair shows the former deputy mayor of Auburn being handcuffed with two friends and then bundled in the back of a police car.
According to ACA, police were called to the scene after Mehajer reportedly spilled icecream and takeaway food inside a taxi and then attempted to kick the driver.
The 30-year-old can be seen showing his phone to the officers, who wait for backup to arrive before handcuffing the trio and taking them into custody.
Mehajer has spent the past month travelling Europe, posting countless modelling shots of his time spent in Lebanon, Greece, Italy, France and Spain on Instagram.
It's believed the arrest took place on Friday evening Ibiza time, although it is unclear whether any charges have been laid.
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Embattled Sydney property developer Salim Mehajer has been publicly arrested by local police in the Spanish party island of Ibiza
Mehajer and two of his friends were reportedly arrested after a heated argument with a local taxi driver, who claimed the trio spilled food inside his car
Mehajer was handcuffed and taken into custody after a conversation with Spanish police
Salim Mehajer has had a tumultuous year, including a public split from his wife Aysha Learmonth - who later filed an apprehended violence order against him.
The nine-month order was taken out by police on Ms Learmonth and her brother-in-law Ben Miller's behalf after she left the couple's marital home earlier this year.
Just days before he left overseas, Mehajer's appeal against an AVO banning him from approaching the father of a Lindt Cafe siege survivor was dismissed.
Last week the Daily Telegraph reported that Salim Mehajers parents owe almost $10 million in unpaid taxes and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is moving towards declaring them bankrupt.
Mohamad Mehajer, 60, and Amal Mehajer, 56, who are involved in their son's property development business, owe the ATO $9,966,817 in unpaid taxes and interest.
It's believed the arrest took place on Friday evening Ibiza time, although it is unclear whether any charges have been laid
Mehajer has spent the past month travelling Europe, posting countless modelling shots of his time spent in Lebanon, Greece, Italy, France and Spain on Instagram
A horrified bystander who mistook a short film scene for a murder scene has called police to report a public beheading.
A film crew were filming a scene at a car wash in Condell Park, South-West Sydney, in which an actor playing an intersection car cleaner is kidnapped.
A would be Good Samaritan saw the spectacle and called triple-zero, whereupon two police car swooped on the scene.
A horrified bystander has mistaken a short film scene for a murder scene outside a Sydney carwassh
A NSW police spokesperson confirmed to Daily Mail Australia they attended the scene before piecing together the mix-up.
The crew were filming a comedy project called Windscreens: The Australian Dream for the short film contest Tropfest.
Co-producer Michael Papaeleftheriou told Daily Telegraph the crew were lost for words when the police cars hurtled into shot.
'It was just one character in shot, the rest were crew,'
He said the film is about a windscreen cleaner and his battle for business with the car wash owner.
'It's basically about a windscreen cleaner at an intersection with homemade traffic lights,' he said.
The NSW National's deputy leader Adrian Piccoli has announced he is stepping down from his position, just hours after deputy premier Troy Grant quit.
Mr Grant confirmed he was leaving his position on Monday afternoon following poor numbers in the upcoming Orange by-election and an anticipated spill motion tomorrow.
Mr Piccoli followed suit on Monday night, but said he hopes to keep his role as education minister.
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The NSW National's deputy leader Adrian Piccoli (pictured) announced on Monday night he is stepping down from his position, just hours after deputy premier Troy Grant resigned
Mr Grant (pictured) confirmed he was leaving his position on Monday afternoon following poor numbers in the upcoming Orange by-election and an anticipated spill motion tomorrow
'I won't be standing as deputy. I've had eight years. I hope to remain as the Minister for Education, but that's a question for the new leader, whoever that might be,' he told the Daily Telegraph.
'Mr Grant has done a fantastic job in sometimes difficult circumstances. He's an incredibly loyal and ethical operator, that's why I've always backed him,' he continued.
The casualties come as the vote count for Saturday's by-election puts the Shooters Fishers and Farmers party within range of winning the seat held by the Nationals for almost 70 years.
The unprecedented 35 per cent primary vote swing against the party put the heat on, and Mr Grant was due to face a leadership spill at Tuesday's party room meeting.
The deputy premier said he stepped down in a bid to give the government an opportunity to 'pause and reset'.
'No one encouraged me to go. I spoke to my colleagues about it and I just didn''t want the turmoil to continue,' Mr Grant said.
Mr Piccoli (pictured with NSW Premier Mike Baird) followed suit, but said he hopes to keep his role as education minister
He said he was 'incredibly saddened' by Mr Grant's decision (pictured)
Monaro MP John Barilaro is expected to fill the vacant leadership role and become deputy premier. Mr Picolli's role is also up for grabs.
Unrest within the Nationals' party room had been swirling for months, as Mr Grant's backing of Mr Baird's now-scrapped greyhound racing ban was publicly slammed by fellow MPs.
Nationals MP Andrew Fraser told Nine News on Monday Mr Grant 'just wasn't connecting to the people.'
I think when you make decisions in cabinet without taking with the partyroom, it's evidence that youre not listening to constituency, he said.
The controversial policy and forced local council mergers have been blamed as the main contributors of the disastrous by-election result.
Unrest within the Nationals' party room had been swirling for months, as Mr Grant's (second from right) backing of Mr Baird's now-scrapped greyhound racing ban was publicly slammed by fellow MPs
Mr Baird admitted he should be held accountable for the 'terrible' coalition outcome.
He said he was 'incredibly saddened' by Mr Grant's decision.
'I know what a great man Troy Grant is. I think he's done an incredible job for his community, and his leadership in the last state election was second to none,' Mr Baird said.
The government would learn from the by-election, he said, but reversing the deeply unpopular council amalgamations was off the table.
Mr Baird (pictured) admitted he should be held accountable for the 'terrible' coalition outcome
Labor leader Luke Foley said it was unfortunate Mr Grant was being thrown under the bus over the greyhounds debacle.
'They're trying to make poor old Troy Grant walk the gang plank to get the heat off Mike Baird (but) it's the policies of Mr Baird that have driven this government near to a cul-de-sac,' he said.
With just 204 votes to be counted, Shooters candidate Phil Donato is on track to win Orange on 50.3 per cent of the two-party preferred vote and Nationals candidate Scott Barrett is on 49.7 per cent.
Labor preferences favour the minor party and it's expected the Shooters will secure their first lower house seat when the final results are announced later this week.
Donald Trump and his campaign manager Kellyanne Conway who has spoken out warning Trump haters
Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid is being warned he should be 'very careful' when criticizing incoming American President Donald Trump.
With some suggestions of legal action against the 76-year-old Democrat Mr Reid following his damning statement released on Friday, one of Mr Trump's closest advisers Kellyanne Conway has spoken out.
Mrs Conway, 49, a Republican campaign manager, strategist, and pollster, has said that the outgoing Senate should be 'very careful' as is comments were 'incredibly disappointing'.
Speaking to Fox News Sunday Mrs Conway said: 'I find Harry Reid's public comments and insults about Donald Trump and other Republicans to be beyond the pale.
'They're incredibly disappointing.'
In Mr Reid's statement last week following Trump's election he commented 'The election of Donald Trump has emboldened the forces of hate and bigotry in America.
'White nationalists, Vladimir Putin and ISIS are celebrating Donald Trump's victory, while innocent, law-abiding Americans are wracked with fear especially African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Muslim Americans, LGBT Americans and Asian Americans. Watching white nationalists celebrate while innocent Americans cry tears of fear does not feel like America.
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Speaking to Fox News Sunday Mrs Conway said she was 'disappointed' with Mr Reid's comments especially for someone who has been in politics for so long
'I have heard more stories in the past 48 hours of Americans living in fear of their own government and their fellow Americans than I can remember hearing in five decades in politics.'
But concerns have been raised that president-elect Trump and his advisers are already threatening legal action to silence critics.
When asked in the interview with Fox News Sunday if Mrs Conway was filing a lawsuit, she added she was: 'calling for responsibility and maturity and decency for somebody who has held one of the highest positions in our government, in a country of more than 300 million people.'
Mr Reid's office responded president-elect Trump wants 'to try to silence his critics with the threat of legal action,' which he said should shock and concern Americans.
Mr Reid's office responded to the interview raising concerns that already Mr Trump's advisers were trying to silent critics with threats of legal action
There have been protests against the election results throughout America, in particular in areas including New York, California, Oregon and North Carolina with some celebrity faces.
Some violence and concerning comments have also emerged including a protest in Portland Thursday night which turned into a riot and led to 25 people being arrested.
A reporter covering an anti-Trump protest in Oakland, California was left with a fractured cheekbone and abrasions Wednesday night after four men, whom he said were masked anarchists, assaulted him.
And in North Carolina, a student at Elon University wrote 'Bye bye Latinos hasta la vista' on a classroom whiteboard Thursday.
In addition a senior Al-Qaeda figure celebrated Trump's win on Twitter, calling it an 'important step' for the terror group.
Trump will officially become president on Inauguration Day on January 20, 2017.
Mr Trump (left) pictured with President Barack Obama (right) at the White House Thursday
Vouching for the successor he never imagined having, President Barack Obama on Monday said the United States under Donald Trump would remain the 'indispensable nation' for global security and praised the president-elect for vowing to maintain America's alliances.
'There is no weakening of resolve,' Obama said before departing on a three-nation trip that was supposed to be his grand valedictory tour.
Instead, he will now confront concerns about a Trump presidency in Europe and Latin America and have to reassure nations about a man who Obama only a week ago derided as 'woefully unprepared for the job' who 'can't handle the nuclear codes.'
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Committed: President Obama said his successor had told him he was committed to 'strong and robust' NATO partnerships
'There is enormous continuity ... that makes us that indispensable nation when it comes to maintaining order around the world,' Obama said at a news conference at the White House.
Relationships and policies go beyond presidents, he said, adding that military officials, diplomats and intelligence officers would cooperate with their foreign counterparts as before.
And Obama tried to soothe any fears about the security direction in which Trump wanted to take America, after Trump appeared to question the validity of NATO and other overseas U.S. commitments at various points in his campaign.
During his meeting with Trump, Obama said Trump 'expressed a great interest in maintaining our core strategic relationships,' including 'strong and robust NATO' partnerships.
Even as he visits Germany, Greece and Peru, Obama said his team would accelerate efforts to ensure a smooth transition to the Trump administration.
Drug addict prisoners claim their lives have been turned around by a high-priced monthly injection.
But sceptics question its effectiveness and say the manufacturer has aggressively marketed an unproven drug to corrections officials.
Prisons, including Sheridan Correctional Centre in Sheridan, Wyoming, are experimenting by giving inmates addicted to opioids a single shot of Vivitrol.
Christopher Wolf had already served prison time for nonviolent crimes when he was ordered into treatment for a heroin addiction by a judge who suggested Vivitrol.
Three months later, the 36-year-old from Centerville, Ohio, is clean and working full time as a cook. He now suggests the medication to other addicts.
'I don't have cravings,' Mr Wolf said. 'I see how much better life is. It gets better really fast.'
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Prisoners in Sheridan Correctional Centre in Sheridan, Wyoming, United States, are being given an injection to help with opioid addiction but some critics say it is an unproven drug
The drug given in the buttocks, lasts for four weeks and eliminates the need for the daily doses common with alternatives such as methadone.
But each shot costs as much as $1,000, around 800, and because the drug has a limited track record, experts do not agree on how well it works.
Joshua Meador, 28, an inmate at Sheridan hopes to get into the Vivitrol program before his release in January. Before incarceration, he abused both older treatment drugs. When given take-home doses of methadone for the weekend, he would sell them for heroin.
He said: 'When I'm on Vivitrol, I can't get high.
'The drug has no street value or abuse potential.'
Proponents say Vivitrol could save money compared with the cost of locking up a drug offender - about $25,000 (approx 20,000) a year for each inmate at the Sheridan Correctional Center, 70 miles southwest of Chicago.
Dr. Joshua Lee, of New York University's medical school, said more evidence is needed to determine whether the medication can help substantial numbers of people and whether it's worth paying for, but the early results are encouraging.
'It sounds good, and for some of us, it feels like the right thing to do,' said Dr Lee, a leading researcher on the treatment.
WHAT DOES VIVITROL DO? Vivitrol targets receptors in the brain's reward system, blocking the high and extinguishing urges. In some programs, prisoners get an injection before release, then follow-up shots from any clinic. Advertisement
Vivitrol is emerging as the nation searches for ways to ease an opioid epidemic that affects more than 2 million Americans and an estimated 15 percent of the U.S. prison population.
Many experts view prisons - where addiction's human toll can be seen most clearly - as a natural place to discover what works.
For decades, researchers have recognized addiction as a relapsing brain disease with medication an important part of therapy. But most jails and prisons reject methadone and buprenorphine, the other government-approved medications for opioid addiction, because they are habit-forming and can be abused.
David Farabee of the University of California at Los Angeles, who leads a Vivitrol study in a New Mexico jail, commented: 'You couldn't design something better for the criminal justice system.
'There's been pushback with other medications, people saying, "We're just changing one drug for another. That argument goes out the window when you're talking about a blocker" like Vivitrol.'
Joshua Meador, 28, (pictured) an inmate at Sheridan hopes to get into the Vivitrol program before his release in January
Prison systems in Illinois, Vermont, Wyoming and Wisconsin are trying the drug on a small scale. Michigan is offering Vivitrol to parolees who commit small crimes, if addiction is the reason for their new offense. The federal Bureau of Prisons ran a field trial in Texas and plans to expand the program to the Northeast next year. The drug's manufacturer hopes prisons will be the gateway to a larger market.
Also known as extended-release naltrexone, the medication won Food and Drug Administration approval for alcohol dependence in 2006 and in 2010 to prevent relapse in post-detox opioid users.
The evidence for giving Vivitrol to inmates is thin but promising.
In the biggest study, sponsored by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about 300 offenders - most of them heroin users on probation or parole - were randomly assigned to receive either Vivitrol or brief counseling and referral to a treatment program.
After six months, the Vivitrol group had a lower rate of relapse, 43 percent compared with 64 percent. A year after treatment stopped, there had been no overdoses in the Vivitrol group and seven overdoses, including three deaths, in the other group. The results, published in March in the New England Journal of Medicine, have been promoted by the drugmaker, Ireland-based Alkermes, as it markets Vivitrol to U.S. correctional systems.
Yet addiction is stubborn. When the injections stopped, many in the study relapsed. A year later, relapse rates looked the same in the two groups.
'It does suggest six months wasn't enough,' said Dr Lee, the lead author.
T.J. Voller was a Vivitrol success story - until he died from a heroin overdose. After Vivitrol was approved by the FDA, Voller talked about getting the shot with The Associated Press and Dr. Sanjay Gupta in a CNN segment. The 30-year-old was back at work and seemed proud of his recovery. But after 10 months on Vivitrol, he died of a heroin overdose.
In some cases it hasn't worked with one man T.J Voller originally being a success story but after 10 months on Vivitrol he died of a heroin overdose. Pictured, exterior of Sheridan Correctional Centre
'He was alone for the weekend and picked up that needle one last time,' said his mother, Kathi Voller of Raynham, Massachusetts.
Advocates argue that inmates have a constitutional right to all FDA-approved addiction medications throughout their incarceration.
Sally Friedman, legal director of the New York-based Legal Action Center, which is looking for a test case to bring to court, commented: 'Treatment should be offered from the moment they are brought into the system.'
Physicians have learned to be cautious about pharmaceutical company marketing, said Andrew Kolodny, senior scientist at the Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University.
Not so for criminal justice officials, who may be too trusting, Mr Kolodny said.
Sally Friedman, legal director of the New York-based Legal Action Center, which is looking for a test case to bring to court, believes 'treatment should be offered from the moment inmates are brought into the system'
'When the drug company sends someone in to give them a talk and buy them pizza, they think they're getting a scientific lecture,' he said.
Alkermes spokeswoman Jennifer Snyder said the company's sales team helps educate corrections staff and community care providers only after they have shown interest in Vivitrol.
There's widespread agreement that counseling, support groups and treatment for underlying problems such as depression are crucial for Vivitrol patients, said Dr. Joseph Garbely of Pennsylvania-based Caron Treatment Centers, which supports medication-assisted treatment and prefers Vivitrol.
Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson is holding talks with EU counterparts in Brussels today (pictured) but snubbed a 'crisis' summit last night
Boris Johnson hailed Donald Trump's bombshell victory as a 'good thing for Britain' today after snubbing a crisis summit called by the EU to discuss the US result.
Arriving for regular talks with European counterparts in Brussels this morning, the Foreign Secretary said there was 'a lot to be positive about' in the billionaire's victory.
After condemning the 'whinge-o-rama' by European politicians, Mr Johnson urged them to seize the 'moment of opportunity' instead of carping.
The session in Brussels today is expected to be awkward after the UK, France and Hungary chose to boycott an emergency discussion of the implications of Trump's shock victory last night.
In a pointed jibe as that session wrapped up, the EU's foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini - who chaired last night's session - said of the UK's absence: 'I guess it's only normal for a country that has decided to leave not to be so interested in our discussion on the future of our relations.'
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Nato chief Jens Stoltenberg voiced alarm at Mr Trump's criticism of the alliance during the US election campaign.
Mr Stoltenberg warned bluntly of the dangers of American isolationism, writing in the Observer: 'This is no time to question the partnership between Europe and the United States.
'Going it alone is not an option.'
But Mr Johnson said today: 'I think it's a good thing if everyone steps up to the plate and spends a little bit more.
Boris Johnson, pictured talking to Belgian foreign minister Dider Reynders (middle) and Italian foreign minister Paolo Gentiloni, right at a meeting of European foreign ministers in Brussels today, hailed Donald Trump's bombshell victory as a 'good thing for Britain' today after snubbing a crisis summit called by the EU to discuss the US result last night
The meeting on Sunday was called after Donald Trump (pictured on CBS News of Friday night) won the presidential election
CBS News correspondent Lesley Stahl interviewed Mr Trump, his wife Melania and daughter Ivanka
'The UK is now a major, major player. I think it is a good thing if other European countries step up and spend a bit more.'
Asked about Donald Trump's victory, he added: 'There's a lot to be positive about. It's very important not to prejudge the president-elect and his administration. It has only been a few days. We should regard it as a moment of opportunity.
'Donald Trump is a deal maker and I think that will be a good thing for Britain and it can also be a good thing for Europe.'
Confirming that Mr Johnson would not attend the crisis summit at the weekend, a Foreign Office spokesman told MailOnline: 'There is a regular Foreign Affairs Council meeting on Monday where a range of issues can be discussed in the normal way.
'We do not see the need for an additional meeting on Sunday because the US election timetable is long established.
Boris Johnson, pictured at a meeting of European foreign ministers in Brussels today, said there was 'a lot to be positive about' in the billionaire's victory as he arrived this morning
Boris Johnson talks to his Finnish counterpart Timo Soini at the European meeting of foreign ministers in Brussels this morning
'An act of democracy has taken place, there is a transition period and we will work with the current and future administrations to ensure the best outcomes for Britain.'
EU President Donald Tusk said on Wednesday that the events of 2016 - including the historic Brexit vote in June - were a 'warning sign for all who believe in liberal democracy'. He urged the EU to 'finally get our act together'.
But Trump's election has made it harder to regroup, given that Europe - while trying to stay pragmatic in dealing with Washington - has no idea what to really expect from the billionaire.
Tusk warned during the referendum campaign that 'Western political civilisation' was at risk.
Rattled European leaders have issued calls, after both Brexit and the Trump win, for Europe to seize its own destiny and tackle what they have dubbed a 'polycrisis'.
It comes as Prime Minister Theresa May was warned by a leading German politician that she is 'delusional' if she believes she can get a good trade deal from Trump, 70.
Boris Johnson is taking part in what are expected to be tense talks in Brussels today
But Ms Mogherini struck a more upbeat tone after the talks last night.
'We are looking forward to a very strong partnership with the next administration, we've decided together to engage with the incoming administration even from this very first week of transition,' she said..
Boris Johnson risked upsetting his European counterparts by telling them to end the 'collective wing-orama' at Donald Trump's election victory
'It's not up to us... it's up to the next US administration to define to define their own position,' she said following the two-and-a-half hour meeting.
'For the moment it's not a wait and see attitude we can afford having, because the world goes on, Europe goes on, crisis goes on, but also opportunities we can take go on,' she said.
Axel Schafer, a senior member of Chancellor Angela Merkel's Social Democrat coalition party, said Mrs May's hope that President-elect Trump will look favourably on the UK will come to nothing.
Referring to the shock election of Mr Trump, Mr Schafer told The Times: 'What changed is the likelihood of a speedy and preferential trade deal between UK and US.
'Even before Tuesday the chances were rather low, now the hope for this kind of deal seems delusional.'
The pointed remarks came after ministers talked up the chances of a close working relationship with the surprise winner of the race to the White House.
Mr Johnson said the Republican's victory over Hillary Clinton is a 'great opportunity for the UK' to build closer economic ties with America.
He suggested that the President-elect would be good for Britain as the country attempts to agree new free trade deals following Brexit.
Speaking on a whistle-stop tour of capitals in eastern Europe and the Balkans, Mr Johnson lashed out at European leaders for taking a more negative approach to Mr Trump's election.
He said: 'I would respectfully say to my beloved European friends and colleagues that it's time that we snapped out of the general doom and gloom about the result of this election and collective 'whinge-o-rama' that seems to be going on in some places.'
Following the election result, he revealed that he spoke to Vice-President-elect Mike Pence and added that the pair discussed the 'importance of the special relationship' between the two countries.
Mr Johnson, who previously described Mr Trump as being 'out of his mind', also praised him as a 'deal maker'.
A Foreign Office source told The Sun: 'The rest of Europe has been churlish and sniffy about Trump's victory. We haven't - that puts us in a much better place.'
Axel Schafer (pictured) a senior member of Chancellor Angela Merkel's Social Democrat coalition party, has said Mrs May is 'delusional' if she thinks she will get a good trade deal
Mr Schafer said Mrs May's hope that Donald Trump (pictured) will look favourably on the UK will come to nothing
The tone was in marked contrast to that of European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker, who seemed concerned about Trump's appointment - along with other leaders who have reacted with alarm.
He said: 'Mr Trump, during his campaign, said that Belgium was a village somewhere in Europe.
'We must teach the President-elect what Europe is and how it works. I believe we'll have two years of wasted time while Mr. Trump tours a world he doesn't know.
'The Americans, as a general rule, have no interest in Europe', Juncker said in his remarks to the students.
He added: 'The trans-Atlantic alliance, and the Nato alliance, is called into question, so it could be quite pernicious.
'With regards to refugees and other non-Americans, Trump has an approach which in no way coincides with the approach in Europe.'
And Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon is set to tell Britain's Nato allies to spend more money on defence.
The Telegraph reports that Sir Fallon will use a Brussels summit of defence ministers to urge countries to scrap plans for an EU army because Trump might withdraw his support.
Trump - during his campaign - said that America could refuse to help Nato allies unless they fulfil obligations and 'pay their bills'.
Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron said his party would vote against triggering Article 50, which formally launches withdrawal negotiations with the EU, unless there was a guarantee that the final Brexit deal with Brussels is put to a fresh referendum.
He insisted he respected the decision made by voters in favour of leaving the EU but said nobody should have a deal 'imposed' upon them.
Although the Lib Dems only have eight MPs they have more than 100 peers in the Lords, which could spell trouble for the Government if judges rule that a full Act of Parliament is required before Article 50 can be triggered, as the legislation would have to clear both Houses.
European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker (pictured) said: 'I think that we'll waste time for two years while Mr Trump tours a world that he is completely unaware of'
The comments came as Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron (pictured) said his party would vote against triggering Article 50
MPs from other parties - including a Labour frontbencher - have indicated they would be prepared to oppose Article 50.
The Government is challenging a High Court ruling that Parliament must have the final say on triggering Article 50 with a hearing in the Supreme Court next month, arguing that prerogative powers could be used to trigger Article 50.
An outline of the grounds for appeal published by the Brexit Department said the High Court was mistaken and should have accepted 'the Crown retains the power to give effect to the result of the EU referendum' by taking the 'first step in the process' by notifying that it is triggering Article 50.
The Government's lawyers will argue that 'in any event, the continued existence of the power to take that first step is clearly established and authorised by Parliament'.
However, the Guardian reports that Government lawyers are looking at deploying new tactics when they try to persuade the Supreme Court to overturn the High Court ruling.
The legal team could argue that Parliament can reverse the Article 50 decision at any point, meaning its sovereignty has not been infringed, and Mrs May can trigger the process herself, the newspaper has suggested.
A Government spokeswoman said: 'Our position is clear: the country voted to leave the EU and we will respect the will of the British people.
'The Government told the High Court that as a matter of firm policy, once given, the Article 50 notice would not be withdrawn. Because legal proceedings are under way it would not be appropriate to comment further.'
Meanwhile, Britain could seek associate membership of the North American Free Trade Area, according to the Daily Telegraph.
Mr Maughan, from County Durham, has now been awarded 35,000
But the photographs on his laptop were a result of a computer virus
He was charged with possessing indecent images and sent for trial
A grandfather who was wrongly branded a paedophile after child pornography was found on his laptop has been awarded 35,000 by police - because the images were a result of a computer virus.
John Maughan, 65, was working in Abu Dhabi when he was contacted by detectives ordering him to return home to the UK.
Officers wanted to quiz him about 609 images of child pornography which had been discovered on his computer in Bishop Auckland, County Durham.
Detectives seized the device and on his return to the country Mr Maughan was charged with possessing indecent images and sent for trial.
John Maughan, 65, was working in Abu Dhabi when he was contacted by detectives
Officers wanted to quiz Mr Maughan about 609 images of child pornography which had been discovered on his computer
The investigation began in January 2008 when a friend of Mr Maughan's long-term partner, Theresa McManners, called police to claim she has found the images while looking on the laptop.
The woman was on his computer because she wanted to check the device over mistaken claims Mr Maughan was having an affair.
But the case against him collapsed when an independent examination of the computed revealed it contained 251 potentially toxic files - including 55 Trojan viruses - which were not picked up by officers.
Mr Maughan later sued Durham Police for malicious prosecution after it emerged a detective investigating the case insisted no virus had been found on the laptop.
An expert then discovered that the computer was in fact riddled with malware.
After an eight year legal battle he was awarded 15,000 compensation plus 20,000 costs in an out of court settlement.
When he was fighting to clear his name, Mr Maughan's father passed away and his partner of 35 years was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease and was admitted to a nursing home.
He also claimed his home was vandalised after a brick was thrown through his window.
Mr Maughan said his friends shunned him and he lost his 100,000 a year career helping to fix a $1billion expansion project in Habshan Abu Dhabi in the UAE for GASCO, a National Oil Company.
He said: 'I went from having a great career and a loving home life to a situation which cannot get much worse.
'How I'm still living is beyond me, I've just lived day by day by day and it's all been put on me at no fault of my own.
'The mistakes police made during their inquiries were unforgivable and left me walking around my own hometown thinking "is anyone looking at me?"'
'All the major electrical engineering projects I was involved with were immediately and totally trashed by Durham Constabulary.
Mr Maughan and his partner Teresa McManners were photographed on holiday in Egypt in 2009
Mr Maughan (pictured with his partner Miss McManners) has now been awarded 35,000
'To get this result now against an uphill battle with the police who were determined to defend the case against them no matter what, feels like a miracle and should now clear my name in the eyes of the public and allow me to get on with rebuilding the rest of my life.'
The investigation began in January 2008 when a friend of Mr Maughan's partner called police to claim she has found the images whilst looking on the laptop.
He had already left the the UK to work in Dubai for four months but officers seized the computer and arrested Mr Maughan on return to the UK the following April.
He was quizzed and charged with 18 offences and a detective filed a report wrongly stating there were no viruses on the computer.
But Mr Maughan instructed a computer expert who found 251 separate viruses and blamed the appearance of the images on 'spyware.'
A police computer expert was also instructed and uncovered the malware.
Mr Maughan was on bail for over a year after a 10,000 surety was offered by his father but he was ordered to give up his passport making it impossible for him to return to work.
The charges were dropped at Durham Crown Court in May 2009 after prosecutors studied the expert reports and he sought 200,000 from police for aggravated damages.
He added: 'I cannot stress the magnitude of the overall stress and effect this has had on myself and my family.
'My partner has gone through hell and the torment she has had to endure is unimaginable - yet she stuck by me throughout.
'It seemed the police were determined to use taxpayers cash to defend themselves leave me a broken man. I have gone from earning a good salary to receiving pension credits.
'Whilst I'm pleased to get some financial recourse the amount of money is an insult after what we've been through.
A stone (pictured) was thrown through his window after he was named locally in County Durham
The investigation began in January 2008 when a friend of Mr Maughan's partner, Miss McManners (pictured), called police to claim she has found the images whilst looking on the laptop
'If the proper tests had been done at the time them we would not be here now. I got named locally as a man who had indecent images and it was humiliating. One night at 1am a brick came through my window.
'Even though I cleared my name it feels like mud sticks and I'm not going to able to work anymore after what happened.
'Everything I worked for which put me in such a good position had all been trashed now. We could have had a nice life, I worked for it and earned it and it was totally wasted.'
In his report computer expert Jonathan Wheatley said: 'In my 15 years as an IT professional, I have never experienced a computer so heavily infected with malicious software.
'It is difficult to establish with any degree of certainty the nature of the damage which may have been done during the time that the computer was in operation.
'An unprotected computer on the internet is vulnerable to many and varied forms of attack.'
In legal documents from Leeds County Court, Durham Police agreed to pay 35,000 but did not admit liability.
Aaqil Ahmed, the broadcaster's head of religion and ethics
The BBC is to increase its coverage of religions in a bid to counter claims it is biased towards Christianity.
Earlier this year, the corporation accused itself of being too Christian in its output - and that it was considering adding programmes for Muslim, Hindu and Sikh audiences.
Aaqil Ahmed, the broadcaster's head of religion and ethics, compiled a report following consultation with non-Christians who expressed their belief that the BBC is disproportionate in its religious content.
The feeling is that while there are plenty of shows that celebrate Christianity, there are too few for other faiths.
BBC director general Lord Hall was handed the dossier and is believed to be giving thorough consideration to its suggestions.
He is now inviting religious leaders to be part of discussion to make their coverage more multi-faith.
A BBC source said: 'Faith is remarkably important. The BBC can and must do more to ensure that the important role faith plays is recognised and reflected in our programing.
'The BBC will do more to represent faiths across the broad, and has specifically rejected the notion of in any way diminishing what it does around Christianity.'
Following the publication of the report in May, Ahmed said in a statement: 'Christianity remains the cornerstone of our output and there are more hours dedicated to it than there are to other faiths.
'Our output in this area is not static, though. It has evolved over the years and we regularly assess it.'
As it stands, religious programming across the BBC includes the likes of Songs of Praise, Sunday Morning Live and The Life of Muhammad on television.
Moral Maze, Beyond Belief and Thought for the Day feature on radio.
Safe: Songs of Praise presenters Pam Rhodes, Aled Jones and Diane-Louise Jordan
Ibrahim Mogra (left) of the Muslim Council of Britain welcomed the news, while Lord Carey (right) admitted he was wary of the changes
Ibrahim Mogra of the Muslim Council of Britain welcomed the news and said the BCC could show Friday prayers from a mosque.
The Board of Deputies of British Jews told The Times: 'We would love to see a program exploring the history of Jewish-Muslim co-operation over the centuries, such as during the Holocaust when many Jews were saved by Muslims.'
In the summer, Lord Carey, the former Archbishop of Canterbury, admitted he was wary about any such changes.
He said: 'There is a real feeling by Christians of being let down by the Establishment.
Oscar Pistorius has been transferred to a new prison in South Africa after demanding a move to a jail which has recently had new bath tubs installed.
The South African government confirmed that the former Paralympian had been moved at his request to the facility, which they say is better able to accommodate disabled offenders.
Double leg amputee Pistorius is serving a six-year prison term for shooting dead his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp on Valentines Day in 2013.
Oscar Pistorius has been transferred to a new prison in South Africa after demanding a move to the jail which has recently had new bath tubs installed
Prosecutors have appealed the sentence, which they say is too lenient.
Pistorius, 29, had been serving time in the Kgosi Mampuru II prison in Pretoria but has now been moved to the nearby Atteridgeville Correctional Centre, which recently installed bath tubs during upgrades for disabled criminals.
The Department of Correctional Services says the Atteridgeville prison houses offenders serving up to six years in prison, and has rehabilitation and development programs for inmates.
Officials say Pistorius's disability previously required that he be held in a Kgosi Mampuru remand centre lacking such programmes.
Pistorius, 29, had been serving time in the Kgosi Mampuru II prison in Pretoria but has now been moved to the nearby Atteridgeville Correctional Centre
Pistorius demonstrates walking without his prosthetic legs during his trial. His new jail ecently installed bath tubs during upgrades for disabled criminals
The former athlete's prison transfer comes just a month after officials confirmed he had been secretly freed to join his family at a boutique hotel for a memorial service for his grandmother.
He was allowed out of the maximum security prison for four hours, under armed guard, for the celebration of Gerti Pistorius's life last month.
Double leg amputee Pistorius is serving a six-year prison term for shooting dead his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, pictured, on Valentines Day in 2013
The shamed Olympian was given 'compassionate leave' to attend the event because he wass considered 'low risk' by management at Kgosi Mampuru jail.
But as news of Pistorius' leave emerged, reaction appeared predominantly negative amid accusations that the athlete's 'white privilege' and status had led to him getting special treatment.
Meanwhile, last week, South Africa's Supreme Court (SCA) told state prosecutors and the defence to argue their case over the six-year sentence for murder handed to Pistorius in open court.
He was sentenced to six years in prison in July after being found guilty of murdering Miss Steenkamp on appeal last December, in a case that has attracted worldwide interest.
Legal experts had expected the SCA to issue a ruling on whether prosecutors have the right to challenge the sentence but instead said both parties should first argue their case in court.
The court did not set a date for the appeal hearing.
State prosecutors, led by advocate Gerrie Nel, say the sentence was too lenient as the jail term was less than half the 15-years they sought.
State prosecutors are challenging his sentence which they say is too lenient. It was orginally handed down by trial judge Thokozile Masipa, pictured
In his arguments at the trial, Nel said Pistorius had shown no remorse for the 2013 shooting.
Lawyers for the gold medallist, known as the 'Blade Runner' for his carbon-fibre prosthetics, say he did not deliberately kill model and law graduate Steenkamp.
The athlete originally received a five-year sentence for a manslaughter conviction, that was upgraded to murder on appeal.
Trial Judge Thokozile Masipa, who sent Pistorius to the six-year jail term, dismissed a request by Nel to appeal Pistorius' sentence, saying she was not persuaded that there was a reasonable prospect of success at another court.
Germany's foreign minister has been backed to become his country's next president, despite once referring to Donald Trump as a 'hate preacher'.
Frank-Walter Steinmeier, a 60-year-old Social Democrat, will take over the largely ceremonial role as head of state from Joachim Gauck, whose five-year term ends in February.
While normally studiously diplomatic, Steinmeier strongly criticised US President-elect Donald Trump during the American election campaign.
German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier is pictured waving as he arrives for talks with Polish Foreign Minister Witold Waszczykowski, in Warsaw earlier this year
Asked in August about the rise of right-wing populism around the world, Steinmeier targeted those who 'make politics with fear'.
He cited supporters of Brexit, the nationalist Alternative for Germany party, promoters of Britain's exit from the European Union, and 'the hate preachers, like Donald Trump at the moment in the United States.'
Following Trump's election, Steinmeier said the Republican's victory meant 'nothing is going to get easier. A lot will get harder.'
He said Germany would seek dialogue with the Trump administration, but warned that American foreign policy would likely become 'less predictable.'
German news agency DPA said today Chancellor Angela Merkel's ruling Christian Democrat party would back Steinmeier's nomination for the post.
Together with the votes of Steinmeier's own SPD party the 60-year-old political veteran would likely have enough support to win a vote among the 1,260 delegates who elect Germany's next president on Feb. 12.
Steinmeier (left) with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, right, at a cabinet meeting last year. They are expected to work comfortably with each other desperate being in rival parties
A veteran of the German political system and a familiar face in world capitals, Steinmeier served as Merkel's vice-chancellor and chief diplomat during her first 'grand coalition' government in 2005-2009.
In his second stint as foreign minister beginning in 2013, he has at times drawn fire for attempting to keep the lines of communications open with Russia despite deteriorating relations over Ukraine.
While his Social Democrats have praised his approach as in keeping with their long tradition of Ostpolitik, critics have accused him of being a 'Russlandversteher', or apologist for Russia.
German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier, left, and his wife Elke Buedenbender arrive for an official state dinner with the Queen in Berlin last year
Allies raised eyebrows in June this year when he warned Nato against 'sabre-rattling and warmongering' after it conducted military exercises in eastern Europe in response to the perceived threat posed by Russia.
But SPD leader Sigmar Gabriel said Steinmeier had earned widespread respect and the necessary trust required to fill the post.
Steinmeier first gained national attention in 1998 when he became chief of staff to Merkel's predecessor, Gerhard Schroeder.
Steinmeier (right) will succeed 76-year-old Joachim Gauck (left) when he steps down from the job in February
He was credited with keeping a sometimes chaotic centre-left government running smoothly and seeing through a package of economic reforms and welfare-state cuts in 2003.
The reforms, launched at a time of high unemployment and economic stagnation, were credited with helping fuel growth and make the economy more resilient, but critics said they fuelled social divisions.
He won widespread respect in 2010 when he took a few weeks away from politics to donate a kidney to his wife, Elke Buedenbender, a judge at a Berlin administrative court.
Steinmeier's promotion would leave a void in the foreign ministry, where he led efforts to resolve conflicts in Ukraine and Syria.
Dr Unt Tun Maung, 45 (pictured arriving at Hull Crown Court with his wife) has been cleared of sexual assault on appeal
A married GP who spent six months in prison for groping a teenager's breasts at a walk-in centre has been cleared at retrial after arguing that it was a 'terrible misunderstanding.'
Dr Unt Tun Maung, 45, was jailed in April last year for attacking a 19-year-old girl when she visited the centre in Teesside complaining of chest pains.
The devout Buddhist was accused of cupping the woman's breasts after telling her to remove her bra.
But the father of one has now been cleared of sexual assault after winning a retrial.
Speaking outside court, the doctor said he felt 'very relieved'.
He added: 'I want it to be publicly known, because since my conviction was quashed, I have not been legally allowed to say anything by the court.'
The doctor was suspended from practice in October 2013 and faces another hearing over whether he can work again.
During the trial, the court was told how the woman had gone to the walk-in clinic in July 2012 with-flu like symptoms.
She told the jury that he examined her ears and throat before asking her to bend forwards and place a stethoscope under her blouse.
She claimed that he then told to remove her blouse before flicking her bra and saying: 'Can you remove these'.
The woman alleged he then put his hand on her breasts and 'cupped them for a while'.
But Dr Mung insisted it had been an innocent misunderstanding and that he had simply been listening for echoes in the chest restricted by fluid.
He also denied asking the teenager to take her bra off or that it was ever removed.
Defence barrister Felicity Gerry, QC, said: 'There was no cupping or groping of either of the breasts.
'I suggest it was a proper medical examination and this has all been a terrible misunderstanding. '
After the doctor was jailed for 18 months, his family and friends campaigned for his innocence and won a retrial.
Dr Maung (left and right, outside court) was jailed in April last year for attacking a 19-year-old girl when she visited a walk-in clinic in Teesside complaining of chest pains. But the father of one has now been cleared after a retrial heard it was a 'terrible misunderstanding'
The father of one, from Chester-le-Street, County Durham, had spent six months behind bars when the appeal was granted.
The High Court quashed his conviction after it emerged the woman had sat in the public gallery during the trial, before being recalled to give evidence.
At the latest hearing, a jury of six women and six men took just two hours to find him not guilty of sexual assault.
Dr Maung, who had worked in Sunderland, Teesside and Hartlepool hospitals, wept in the dock as the verdict was given.
The court heard Dr Maung came to the UK in the late 1990s qualifying as a GP and working in practices and hospitals across the north east as a locum.
His late father was a professor of surgery in Burma and his mother was also a doctor.
Character references said he is a 'loyal, dedicated, and kind' person who was brought up with a strong ethical code. He meditates five times a day and is a leading figure in the Sunderland Buddist centre.
A fellow GP at court said: 'Dr Maung deserves to have been able to prove his innocence because he was wrongly convicted in the first trial.
'Doctors, not just in this country, but from abroad have supported him and we want to thank them for that.'
Despite making an immediate complaint, the NHS was criticised for 'shocking delay' in not reporting it to the police for 12 months.
Following the trial, Dr Maung said he was prevented from commenting further due to a pending hearing before the General Medical Council.
Ukip donor Arron Banks plans to bankroll 200 Commons candidates to 'drain the swamp' of Westminster careerists and corruption.
The insurance tycoon, who was with Nigel Farage for the first British meeting with Donald Trump on Saturday, has long planned a 'movement' he hopes will emerge from the Brexit vote.
And Mr Banks now believes there is sufficient anti-establishment feeling across the UK to launch his move against the '200 worst, most corrupt MPs'.
Arron Banks, second left alongside President-elect Donald Trump, Nigel Farage and other top Ukip staff on Saturday, plans to stand candidates against 200 of the 'worst' MPs in Westminster
The billionaire told The Times he will support the candidates on a broad platform with few specific policy aims beyond reforming the Westminster system.
Mr Banks plans to make Keith Vaz his first target amid calls for the Labour grandee to quit the justice committee over police investigations into allegations that prompted his resignation from the chairmanship of the home affairs committee in September.
He said: 'You would rate MPs by (undesirability) with Keith Vaz at No 1, and field a great candidate, a military guy, doctor, someone who has done something with their life.
'It would be a one-off attempt to drain the swamp. It would be highly amusing to tease career politicians with a hot poker.'
He added: 'Its a very simple agenda: to destroy the professional politician. I like the idea of clearing the place out, setting new rules, maybe reducing the number of MPs.
'Not a party from the left or right. Just to clear out the worst lot.'
Mr Banks suggested he could endorse reforms such as two term limits for MPs, abolition of the House of Lords and a minimum age limit of 40.
The funding would initially come from Mr Banks - who gave a 1million to Ukip and spent around 7million on the EU referendum - but he has networks of other donors who contributed to the Brexit cause.
Mr Banks suggested he could endorse reforms such as two term limits for MPs, abolition of the House of Lords and a minimum age limit of 40
Pressure on Mr Vaz grew over the weekend and Tory MP Andrew Bridgen, who voted against Mr Vaz's appointment two weeks ago, told MailOnline everything he had warned MPs about when the Labour grandee bid for his position on the committee had come to pass.
He said: 'I said matters relating to his resignation from the Home Affairs Committee were not resolved.
'He brings Parliament into further disrepute. He should stand down.
'I'm also calling on Jeremy Corbyn to do the right thing and suspend Keith Vaz from the Labour Party until any police investigation is concluded.'
A woman who dressed a mannequin up for company at dinner parties has put the dummy up for sale after finding a real boyfriend.
Bernadette, from Sydneys eastern suburbs, posted the strikingly handsome dummy, named Desmond, on a local Facebook buy and sell group.
The IT worker told Daily Mail Australia the post has been met with an outpouring of offers but nobody has yet to pay the $150 pricetag for the hauntingly lifelike figure.
A woman has taken to social media to sell a strikingly handsome mannequin up for sale on Facebook
We moved in together around September when I got the lease for my house. He was just around for some company while I advertised the other rooms, Bernadette said.
But Desmond assumed a more romantic role when she began using him as a date for dinner parties.
I'd also dress him up for home dinners so I wasn't the 3rd wheel, she said.
The snapshot with the post shows the mannequin brooding in a hallway sporting a pair of superman briefs.
She bills him as a 'beautiful mannequin with gorgeous eyes,' describing him as '6"2 height with dark tan'.
Other images show the doll dressed in a Jamaican beanie and wetsuit, and donning a feathered Native American war bonnet in another.
Bernadette hopes Desmond finds a new home, but for now he is keeping pride of place in the hallway.
There has been interest but nothing offering what he is worth, she said.
Bernadette said she dressed up the mannequin for company at dinner parties
But Price dismissed the petition, saying 'no one owes me an apology'
Almost 35,000 signatures on petition asking for an apology to Price
Steve Price has dismissed a petition demanding The Project offer him an apology after he was the victim of 'leftist bullying' during the show's US election debate.
The broadcaster was at the epicentre of public debate when he mixed heated words with former Labor staffer Jamila Rizvi on Ten following the shock election result.
The pair clashed after Price claimed Rizvi interrupted him as the panel discussed Hillary Clinton's loss, prompting host Carrie Bickmore to tell him to 'change his tone.'
Speaking on The Project on Monday night, Price cleared the air, saying 'no one owes me an apology for anything' and 'I'm a big boy I can look after myself.'
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Broadcaster Steve Price has dismissed a petition demanding The Project offer him an apology after he was the victim of 'leftist bullying' during the show's US election debate last week
Price (left) shared a tense exchange with former Labor staffer Jamila Rizvi (right) following the shock US election result after he was 'interrupted'
'A lot of people have been very outraged on my behalf today. Someone started a petition that I know nothing about, media are reporting stories that I've been somehow bullied on this show last Wednesday night,' Price said.
'I don't feel that I was bullied at all, no one on The Project owes me an apology for anything - I'm a big boy I can look after myself. Let's get on with the program.'
His reaction was in response to a petition with just under 35,000 signatures urging the hosts of The Project to apologise to Steve Price live on air.
The petition, which was shut down on Monday night after 'reaching its target', outlined that Price was abruptly cut off and 'insulted' by Jamila who was speaking with an 'outrageous tone'.
It also claimed Price was silenced for the remainder of the discussion due to the 'abuse' and 'degradation' he suffered on that night.
'I'm a big boy I can look after myself': Price said he wanted no apology from The Project after the controversial clash and requested that they 'get on with the program'
The heated exchange last Wednesday was in the aftermath of Donald Trump winning the U.S. election.
Wearing a t-shirt with Hillary Clinton's logo, Ms Rizvi said she was in 'shock' at the result and 'sad' the US hadn't voted in a female president.
After host Carrie Bickmore outlined how women had voted, she seemingly directed to Ms Rizvi for comment - however Price interjected, saying the breakdown showed the underlying discontent within non-metro America.
'Well what that shows you is the people in real America, small town America, weren't buying the bulldust coming out of the elites,' Price began to say, before he was cut off by Rizvi.
'Sorry can we cut this bull**** about the idea of there being a real America,' the news.com.au columinst said.
Price attempted to jump back in, however his efforts were ignored as Ms Rizvi continued to lambaste Price's idea of a 'real America'.
'All America is real - and the question I believe was to me - if you live in a city or you live in a small town you're still American,' she said.
The show's host Carrie Bickmore (right) was forced to intervene in the verbal stoush, telling Price off for using 'that tone'
Rizvi pointed out the question was initially addressed at her as the studio audience let out a collective 'woah'
One Ms Rizvi had finished talking, Price then went on the attack.
'This is the reason why Donald Trump won, because people like you lecture and heckle people,' he said.
Clearly taken aback by Price's comments, Ms Rizvi 'apologised' as the studio audience let out a collective 'woah', before host Carrie Bickmore intervened.
'Pricey, we were talking to Jamila and you don't need to keep that tone,' Bickmore said.
'I apologise, I thought I was on to be interviewed, so...' Ms Rizvi said.
Never one to back down from his views, it was the former shock jock Price who had the last word against Kevin Rudd's former media assistant.
'Well I thought I could speak without being interrupted, but anyway, carrying on,' he said.
Ms Rizvi has since unpublished her Facebook page after reportedly receiving torrents of online abuse.
A baby boy who was born after his twin brother is officially older than him.
Samuel Peterson was born 5Ib 13oz at 1:39am on November 6.
His twin brother Ronan arrived at 5Ib, 14oz, 31 minutes later at Cape Cod Hospital in Massachusetts.
Parents Seth and Emily Peterson with their twin boys Samuel and Ronan who were born at Cape Cod Hospital in Massachusetts
But Ronans official birth was recorded as 1.10am - because the clocks went back at 2am.
Speaking to ABC News the twins mother Emily Peterson hopes it will not spark a constant rivalry between the two over who was actually born first.
The 32-year-old, who lives with her husband Seth and two-year-old daughter Aubrey, in West Barnstable, Massachusetts, told ABC News: It literally took me a day to wrap my head around it. I didn't realize it was quite that big of a deal until my nurse turned around and said I've been working here 40 years and haven't seen anything like that.
Mr Peterson who is a trooper with the Massachusetts State Police commented: I said earlier that night that they were either going to be born on two different days or the time change was going to come into play.
According to the hospital legally they must give the actual time of birth.
Posting on the hospitals Facebook page Michael K. Lauf, president and CEO of Cape Cod Healthcare, told ABC News: The Peterson twins birth story was a remarkable occurrence.
The outline of Tasmania was the only state missing from the map
A tourist has captured a beautiful picture of the sunset without realising the bushes surrounding it shaped the outline of Australia.
Kelly Matthews, an emergency services phone operator from Derby, in Western Australia, traveled to Darwin for a friend's wedding when she took the photo.
Soon after arriving, Ms Matthews headed to the Esplanade, in Bicentennial Park to get a snap of the sunset.
Kelly Matthews posted this photo of the sun setting from Darwin's Esplanade on Facebook. Her friends pointed out that the outline of the trees resemble the map of Australia, the only state missing was Tasmania
'I put it on Facebook and straight away all my friends said 'that looks like a map of Australia,' Ms Matthews said in a report by the BBC.
The outline shows Western Australia, South Australia and the Great Australian Bight, Victoria, New South Wales and a slightly skewed Queensland and Northern Territory.
Unfortunately, Tasmania's outline was not part of the tree's natural formation, which social media users pointed out.
Ms Matthews said taking this photo was the perfect to mark her milestone of visiting every state and territory in Australia (stock image)
One man wrote: 'Tasmania absent as usual.'
'Mate, just go there and cut a hole in the bush,' a woman replied back.
A couple who noticed money going missing from their home set up a CCTV snare and were shocked to find their friend of over ten years was the culprit.
Tracey Christmas, 52, was spotted in the act after the family grew suspicious of money going missing - even confronting their own young son for answers.
The married couple, who want to remain anonymous, say they have been left with trust issues since the ordeal as they considered Christmas a part of the family.
Christmas was sentenced to a 20-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, after pleading guilty to two counts of theft and two counts of attempted theft.
The shocking footage shows horse riding instructor Christmas, from Biggleswade, Beds., hunting for a hidden key before finding it and stealing 30 in cash
Tracey Christmas, 52, was spotted in the act after the family grew suspicious of money going missing - even confronting their own young son for answers
The shocking footage shows horse riding instructor Christmas, from Biggleswade, Beds., hunting for a hidden key before finding it and stealing 30 in cash.
The CCTV later caught Christmas attempting to steal two other times, before she was seen again quickly going through the woman's hand bag and taking 50.
The female victim, 50, said she felt sick watching the footage and claims she had even discussed money going missing with Christmas - who was her friend for over ten years.
The woman, who lives in Guilden Morden, Cambs., with her 56-year-old husband, said: 'In retrospect we feel stupid that we have not realised what was going on at the time but we had no reason to suspect her.
'It's the disappointment that someone has cultivated a friendship simply for their own monetary gain.
'For us it makes you think how could we have been so blind? But Tracey was seen as a family member and spent more time at our home than at her own.
'I think her sentence is appropriate but it has not affected her life at all, she just keeps clean for a year and it doesn't make any difference on her life.
'I was really angry. I felt really physically sick watching somebody I knew going through my personal possessions.
'We would like to think that we can trust people again but unfortunately it affects how we deal with other people that come into our house now.'
The CCTV later caught Christmas attempting to steal two other times, before she was seen again quickly going through the woman's hand bag and taking 50
The couple claim the CCTV had been up for less than a week and caught Christmas on four different occasions stealing or attempting to steal.
Cambridge Crown Court heard on August 30 how Christmas grew close to the family after being employed to look after their horses and do odd chores around the house.
Paul Brown, prosecuting, said: 'The defendant also babysat for the couple's son, who is now nine-years-old, and looked after their house when they were away.
'However, she did not have free reign of the house and there were areas she was not allowed into.
'The family involved in the case became concerned about money going missing from the house and decided to install CCTV.
'They became suspicious; even confronting other family members and workers at the house over the missing money.'
On March 9 this year, the defendant was caught on CCTV entering a room in the house in Guilden Morden, Cambs.
Christmas denied the offences when confronted face to face by the family involved - but eventually admitted them once the family told her she had been caught on CCTV.
She said she would pay the family back by direct debit and they 'wouldn't need to involve the police', but the family thought it was too late for that.
In police interview, Christmas, who had no previous convictions, admitted the offences.
The court was told how her 'clear and stupid' breach of trust caused arguments within the family and made her victims feel 'physically sick' once they saw the CCTV of her rifling through their things.
The female victim added: 'It is just upsetting and we feel angry that she is probably living her life as normal and we now can't trust people.
'You always like to think you see the best in people but now we sort of tarnish everyone with the same brush.'
Magistrates handed Christmas, from Biggleswade, Cambs., a 20 week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months.
Vile behaviour: BBC reporter Manpreet Mellhi has hit out at two racist Sainsbury's shoppers she claims hid bags of pork scratchings in her basket after wrongly thinking she was Muslim
A BBC reporter has hit out at two racist Sainsbury's shoppers she claims hid bags of pork scratchings in her basket after wrongly believing she was Muslim.
Manpreet Mellhi, 32, was born in Britain and her family heritage is Sikh, with her father and maternal grandparents hailing from India and her mother from Kenya.
The BBC Radio Gloucestershire reporter told how she was in a Sainsbury's supermarket when she became aware of two people chuckling in her direction.
She later looked down at her basket to find two packets of pork scratchings had been placed there. Ms Mellhi believes the incident may have been an attempt to mock the Muslim religion because eating pork is forbidden in Islam.
The journalist, from Cheltenham, took to social media site Twitter after the incident and wrote: 'To person who dropped two bags of pork scratchings into my basket in Sainsbury's: your pitiful Saturday activity backfired. I'm not Muslim.'
She later said the 'bizarre' incident had offended her and added: 'It shocked me a bit.
'I think it was deliberate, though I couldn't say 100 per cent, but nothing about it was a normal situation.
'Did people want to offend me? I don't know. Did they think it was funny? Probably.
'Had I been a Muslim or had it happened to a Muslim then I would have found it more offensive than I did.
The journalist took to Twitter and wrote: 'To person who dropped two bags of pork scratchings into my basket in Sainsbury's: your pitiful Saturday activity backfired. I'm not Muslim'
Racist stunt: Ms Mellhi, a reporter for BBC Radio Gloucestershire, believes the incident may have been an attempt to mock the Muslim religion because eating pork is forbidden in Islam
'It's sad for someone to go into a supermarket on a Saturday and mock somebody.'
Earlier this year another BBC news presenter was left in 'utter shock' after suffering racist abuse in her home town when she was called a 'P***'.
Sima Kotecha, 36, who is from Basingstoke, Hampshire, said that she had not heard the word used in the area since the 1980s.
The incident followed a 57 per cent rise in 'hate crimes' since the EU referendum result, which saw Britain decide to leave.
In particular, police have been investigating a number of attacks on Poles and Muslims.
Data has revealed the NATO countries who are not spending enough on defence to warrant Donald Trump using US forces to protect them from an attack.
The President elect caused alarm during his election campaign by suggesting Washington would think twice about coming to the aid of an endangered NATO ally if it had not paid its dues.
The alliance has set a target for its members of spending 2 per cent of GDP on defence - but the likes of France, Germany and Canada are among more than 20 members not meeting the objective, figures show.
Data has revealed the NATO countries not spending enough on defence to warrant Donald Trump using US forces to protect them from an attack
The alliance has set a target for its members of spending 2 per cent of GDP on defence - but the likes of France, Germany and Canada are among more than 20 members not meeting the objective, figures show
Even Eastern European NATO members Latvia - bordering Russia - and neighbouring Lithuania are projected to spend less than the target level in 2016.
Slovakia and Hungary - both bordering Ukraine - do not meet the 2 per cent recommendation either, according to defenseone.
Mr Trump provoked alarm earlier this year by saying that the military alliance was created to confront a threat - the Soviet Union - that no longer exists and has called the alliance 'obsolete' and a bad deal for America.
He argues that the US gets too little out of decades-old security partnerships like NATO, which is anchored in Europe but traditionally led by America.
In an interview earlier this year he said he would look to see whether countries had 'fulfilled their obligations to us' before deciding whether to come to their aid in the event of a Russian attack.
The President elect caused alarm during his election campaign by suggesting Washington would think twice about coming to the aid of an endangered NATO ally if it had not paid its dues
In an interview earlier this year Trump said he would look to see whether countries had 'fulfilled their obligations to us' before deciding whether to come to their aid in the event of a Russian attack
The 70-year-old also hit out at EU countries who are not paying their share of the bill for NATO. America picks up more than 70 per cent of the cost.
Britain, Greece, Estonia and Poland are the only other four of the 28 members to have signed up to the spending target.
But the likes of France (1.8 per cent), Canada (1 per cent) and Germany (1.2 per cent) are not reaching the suggested level of expenditure.
Slovenia, Spain, Belgium and Luxembourg spend less than 1 per cent on defence, the statistics show.
Portugal, Bulgaria, Croatia, Albania, Denmark, Germany, Holland, Slovakia, Italy, Czech Republic, Hungary and Canada all spend between 1 per cent and 1.4 per cent.
Meanwhile, France, Turkey, Norway, Lithuania, Romania and Latvia spend between 1.5 and 1.9 per cent of GDP of defence.
Yesterday, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg issued a stark warning that 'going it alone is not an option' following Trump's stunning US election victory.
Mr Trump provoked alarm earlier this year by saying that the military alliance was created to confront a threat - the Soviet Union - that no longer exists and has called the alliance 'obsolete' and a bad deal for America. Soldiers are pictured during a NATO exercise in Poland this year
NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg issued a stark warning that 'going it alone is not an option' following Trump's stunning US election victory
'We face the greatest challenges to our security in a generation,' Stoltenberg wrote in The Observer as he outlined NATO's strengths, amid concerns over the president-elect's position on the US-led alliance.
'This is no time to question the partnership between Europe and the United States.'
Stoltenberg noted that the only time NATO's self-defence clause - 'an attack on one is an attack on all' - has been invoked was after the 9/11 terror attacks on the United States.
More than 1,000 European soldiers serving in Afghanistan 'paid the ultimate price' in an operation that was 'a direct response' to the attacks, he added.
He said NATO had made possible the 'integration of Europe' and ended the Cold War, adding: 'European leaders have always understood that going it alone is not an option.'
The alliance continues to play a key role in fighting terrorism and has responded in recent years to 'a more assertive Russia', Stoltenberg added.
In September, Dias was named Elle Magazine's editor-in-residence and given her own digital 'zine called Marley Mag
Goal of Dias' literacy campaign is to promote diversity in children's literature
Dias, a seventh-grader from New Jersey, delivered an hour-long speech to staff and led an hour and a half-long workshop for 50 middle-schoolers
Marley Dias, creator of #1000BlackGirlBooks campaign, spoke at an event in Poughkeepsie,
A New York school district paid an 11-year-old child advocate $6,500 plus expenses for delivering a keynote address at an event and hosting a student workshop last week.
The Poughkeepsie City School District hired Marley Dias to speak during the superintendent's conference day last Tuesday.
On Wednesday, the board voted 3-1 to retroactively approve Dias' consultant agreement at its meeting.
Pint-sized speaker: Marley Dias, an 11-year-old literacy advocate, delivered the keynote address at the superintendent's conference day in Poughkeepsie last Tuesday
Girl power: Dias also led an hour and a half-long workshop about diversity in children's literature for 50 middle-schoolers
The Poughkeepsie City School District's board voted 3-1 to retroactively approve Dias' $6,500 speaking fee, but not without a fight
Dias is a literacy advocate who launched the popular #1000BlackGirlBooks campaign last year to draw attention to the lack of racial diversity in children's literature.
She gave an hour-long speech to staff before leading an hour and a half-long workshop for 50 middle school students. Classes were not in session on Tuesday due to of Election Day.
Superintendent Nicole Williams defended her decision to hire Dias as a speaker at Wednesday's meeting, saying that the girl's resume is 'tremendous' and the district shouldn't discriminate because she's 11 years old, reported The Poughkeepsie Journal.
Dias was paid through funding from a federal education program.
Board Trustee Felicia Watson was the only person to vote against the agreement with Dias, saying that her fiscal responsibility was to the district and that the girl's speaking fee was 'exorbitant.'
Book lover: Dias, pictured left posing with her award at the 5th Annual Foundation for Letters Gala at IAC Building on October 19, and right at the Variety's Power Of Women Luncheon, launched her #1000BlackGirlBooks campaign last year
Dias, pictured attending the African Health Now 'Gift of Life' Benefit at Chelsea Piers Sunset Terrace on October 20, had set out to collect and distribute 1,000 books about black girls
Some local parents and taxpayers also questioned the board's decision to hire the 11-year-old literacy advocate in light of the districts financial woes.
At least 80 per cent of attending students in the distinct are considered economically disadvantaged, and it has been relying on state aid for more than 65 per cent of its budget.
The cash-strapped Poughkeepsie School District has been struggling to fill multi-million budget gaps, forcing administrators to cut job and increase class sizes.
In responding to her critics, Superintendent Williams argued that given that fact that 90 per cent of the districts students are below reading level, there is a dire need to motivate them to read, which is why Dias was brought in on Tuesday to give her presentation.
Williams added that the 11-year-old keynote speaker delivered a message to students and teachers that was 'just as powerful as any adults.'
Marley Dias, a seventh-grader at Roosevelt Middle School in West Orange, New Jersey, launched her children's literacy campaign in 2015 after noticing a dearth of black female protagonists in the books she read, reported NJ.com.
A study by the Cooperative Children's Book Center at the University of Wisconsin has found that fewer than 10 per cent of children's books published in 2015 had a black person as the main character.
Empowered: Dias' campaign has drawn the attention of prominent African American women, including First Lady Michelle Obama (left) and Oprah Winfrey (right)
Thrilled: The 11-year-old activist seemed excited to have met pop star Miley Cyrus (left)
Dias, an avid book lover, set out to collect and distribute 1,000 books about black girls. A year into her initiative, the precocious 11-year-old has far exceeded her initial goal, collecting more than 8,000 books, which she then donated to her school library and to schools across the US and in places like Jamaica and Haiti.
Marley's campaign promoting diversity in children's literature has drawn the attention of national media and offered her a chance to meet First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey and Ellen DeGeneres.
In September, the 11-year-old landed her dream job, having been named an editor-in-residence for Elle Magazine's website, which launched a pop culture and lifestyle digital 'zine for Dias called Marley Mag.
In the blink of an eye, I've gone from being a book nerd in West Orange, New Jersey, to an Editor-in-Residence in New York City, Dias wrote in a welcome letter for Elle.com. I've always said that books have taken me on many adventures, but none of those adventures have been quite like this one.
Keeping it 100: Dias is pictured above posing with former Comedy Central talk show host and comedian Larry Wilmore
Familiar faces: In April, Marley was photographed with Rihanna at the Black Girls Rock! event in New Jersey. In October, she took a selfie with Common at a concert in Philadelphia
For her debut issue, Dias interviewed Oscar-nominated writer-director Ava DuVernay and prima ballerina Misty Copeland.
In October, Dias spoke to then-Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, who shared an amusing story from her childhood about how a barber accidentally chopped off her hair, forcing her to wear a fake ponytail to school.
The presidential hopeful also offered Dias some words of wisdom about ambition, reported The Grio.
Star in the making: Despite her tender age, Dias has been busy making appearances around the country at various high-profile events and glamorous soirees
'I would say that when you have a big dream or youre trying to solve a big problem, there will always be people who tell you that you cant,' Clinton told Dias. 'Heres my advice: dont listen. Keep striving for your goals, and remember that its good to be ambitious. Theres nothing wrong with knowing what you want and going after it.'
Despite her tender age, Dias has been busy making appearances around the country at various high-profile events and glamorous soirees.
On November 11, just days after the event in New York, she headed to Boston to speak at the Inbound 2016 business conference.
In late October, Marley attended Variety's Power of Women luncheon in Beverly Hills.
Marley's mother is Dr Janice Johnson Dias, who holds a PhD in sociology from Temple University with a specialization in urban and political sociology.
Dr Dias is president of the GrassROOTS Community Foundation - a social action organization co-founded by Black Thought, of The Roots fame.
Workers set to be punished in public included a
Employees from a Chinese sales company - including a pregnant woman - were forced to eat live worms after they failed to reach their sales targets, according to Chinese media.
Pictures have emerged showing these sales workers having to drink Chinese rice wine which contained squirming mealworms in front of their colleagues.
The incident took place in Hanzhong, Shaanxi Province, on November 8, according to Huashang Daily.
Employees from a Chinese sales company were forced to eat live worms soaked in hard liquor after they failed to reach their sales target
According to the report, 50 to 60 employees, all wearing yellow uniforms, gathered at a public square in Hanzhong to witness the punishment.
Many of them were holding leaflets promoting building materials and construction services.
The employees worked for a sales group named 'Ai Jia', or 'home loving' in Chinese.
The sales group was jointly formed by 10 construction companies, a participant told a reporter of Huashang Daily.
A man, thought to be a supervisor, carried two plastic bags in his hands.
He announced the names of the employees who had failed to bring in enough clients for the companies the day before.
In one of the plastic bags held by the man, there were a large number of live mealworms.
In the other, there were chopsticks, glasses and two bottles of Baijiu, a hard liquor which is around 40 to 60 percent alcohol.
The man poured the Baijiu into glasses. He then used chopsticks to put mealworms into the glasses of wine.
Employees who had missed their sales targets were ordered to drink the mixture in front of their work colleagues.
One employee told the reporter from Huashang Daily: 'Today we are punished to eat mealworms.
'For every client we missed, he has to eat four worms.'
Every morning, employees at the group set a business target for the day. If they fail to hit the target, they will receive punishment on the following day.
A pregnant female employee, who had also missed the sales target, refused to drink the mixture of hard liquor and live worms.
She said: 'I can't eat worms now, I can't drink either, unless I don't want my baby.'
Eventually one of her male colleagues received the punishment on behalf of her.
A pregnant employee was also told to eat the worms and drink the wine, but she refused
Five to six employees ended up eating the worms and the public punishment attracted the attention from onlookers.
Apparently, this was not the first time staff from the company had been given cruel punishments.
'Other than worms, we have also eaten live squid and ants before,' one employee revealed.
A man, surnamed Cao, claimed that the employees were 'willing to receive punishment'.
Mr Cao is the owner of a bathroom equipment company, which jointly formed the sales group.
Another company owner however said the punishment was a 'special form of encouragement'.
Employees were ordered to drink the wine containing worms in front of their work colleagues
According to the article 88 of China's employment contract law, employers are not allowed to humiliate and give corporal punishment to workers, Chinese government said on its website.
The employer shall be liable for compensation if any harm is done to the worker, said the article.
The labour inspection bureau of Hanzhong city told reporters of Huashang Daily that forcing employees to eat live mealworms was regarded as a kind of physical punishment.
The workers should report the case to labour department, said one official from the labour inspection bureau.
The unusual punishment has sparked criticisms from users of Weibo, a popular social media platform.
One user said: 'Does eating worms help improve business?'
Another one joked: 'If I worked there, I would pour all the worms onto the head of the boss.'
Syed Hoque (pictured outside the Old Bailey) is said to have supplied cash to the terrorist, his nephew Mohammed Choudhury, and discussed the beheading of enemies
A group of UK-based Islamic extremists used charity convoys taking food and medicine to Syria as a cover to smuggle money to terrorists, a court has heard.
The four men allegedly sent 4,500 to a fighter with Al Qaeda-linked group Jabhat al-Nusra so he could buy a sniper rifle and other military equipment.
They also plotted to set up a 'night team' of terrorist snipers in the war-torn country, it was claimed.
Syed Hoque, 37, is said to have supplied cash to the terrorist, his nephew Mohammed Choudhury, 26, and discussed the beheading of enemies.
Mashoud Miah, 27, is said to have acted as a 'fixer' while Mohammed Hussain, 30, and Pervez Rafiq, 46, allegedly sourced equipment to be sent to Syria on charity convoys.
Prosecutor Annabel Darlow QC told the Old Bailey: 'The defendants made use, or so it would appear, of aid convoys as a means of moving money and other property out of the United Kingdom to Syria.
'The prosecution do not suggest that the aid convoys themselves did not have an overall charitable purpose, or that those participating did not intend by the provision of food and medicine to help the civilian population suffering in Syria.
'However the convoys would have provided a useful conduit for these defendants to abuse the spirit of the convoys to convey money and property to terrorists.'
Miss Darlow added: 'This is not about helping orphans in Syria... this is about arms.'
The plot was uncovered when Hoque and his wife Nazia Khanom were stopped at Heathrow Airport on their return from Bangladesh on 5 August 2014.
Analysis of the contents of their phones later revealed Whatsapp chats to Hoque's nephew Mohammed Choudhury, who was fighting with Jabhat al-Nusra, the terrorist wing of Al Qaeda in Syria.
Messages are said to have showed that Hoque had supplied his nephew with money and discussed buying a Dragunov sniper rifle, AK-47 and a nightscope.
Messages are said to have showed that Hoque had supplied his nephew with money and discussed buying a Dragunov sniper rifle, AK-47 and a nightscope
Choudhury had left the UK for Cairo in September 2012 and did not return on the booked flight for July 2013, instead making his way to Syria.
Miss Darlow said: 'Syed Hoque was only too aware that his nephew was engaged in military conflict and that he sought by violent means the death and destruction of the Syrian President and his supporters.
'Hoque actively encouraged Choudhury in these goals and repeatedly both provided and offered to provide financial and other support to Choudhury.'
In one chat Hoque even tried to 'reign in some of Choudhury's worst excesses' by advising him to behead his enemies but not mutilate them, jurors heard.
Detectives also found a list of equipment which Miah was trying to gather together, including a satellite phone, SatNav, iPad, laptop and Kestrel ballistics software to help a shooter fire more accurately.
'This was a list of equipment which would be of enormous use to someone based in a region such as Syria, where normal communications had broken down,' said Miss Darlow.
A search of Hussain's home uncovered a notebook referring to 3,000 and a to-do list mentioning a range finder and satellite phone.
Hoque allegedly sent the 3,000 to Syria on a Children in Deen convoy leaving the UK on 25 July 2013 and 1,500 on an Al Fatiha convoy leaving the UK on 21 December 2013.
He also offered to help Miah raise funds for his plan for a night team of snipers, the court heard.
On October 16 2013, shortly after one charity convoy set off, Choudhury told Hoque that he was going on an IED training course and asked him to try and get hold of a night scope with the 'greatest zoom'.
But by December 21, he had changed his mind.
Hoque asked told him: 'Try and save some of the money I have to buy a car there, and also, remember the 3000 for the Dragunov [that] Abu Issah [Miah] had? He said he would buy a sniper rifle for you. Did he buy it for you? If not he can still give you the 3000.
'I told him to buy a sniper for you as you didn't have any, he said he would but I'm not sure if you reminded him.'
Choudhury said he would rather have a car: 'No, he didn't buy it n Dragunov is not good, but from the 3000 I bought a AK [assault rifle] for 1800 abwt 5 mnths ago...I can borrow a sniper [rifle] from da kateeba [squad]. I jst need a car.'
Nevertheless, Miah was still focused on creating a team if night fighters, boasting on January 30 2014 that he had 'created a nyt [night] team' adding that it 'cost a lot of money.'
'How can I send [a little money]?' Hoque responded.
He asked Choudhury: 'Have you gone on night missions yet with your team? How many brothers?'
'Not yet cause still need to buy some stuff,' Miah replied. 'Its very expensive but it will be very effective inshallah. There is no nyt team at all amonst da brs [brothers] so get ur hands on dis.'
Hoque, of Stockingstone Road, Luton, denies three counts of entering into an arrangement to supply money or property to terrorists.
Miah, of Aston Street, Limehouse, east London, Hussain, of Galsworthy Avenue, Limehouse, and Rafique, of Basil Street, Huddersfield, all deny one count of entering into an arrangement to supply money or property to terrorists.
The mother who posted a photograph of her chance meeting with Hillary Clinton in the woods after the Democrat's election defeat has insisted the shot was not staged.
Margot Gerster was accused of 'faking' the encounter in an attempt to boost Clinton's public image after it emerged it was not the first time the pair had met.
But Ms Gerster, from Westchester, New York, insisted the meeting on a Chappaqua hiking trail - the day after the shock result - was a compete coincidence.
'It was very random. In 100,000 years, I would have never expected running into Hillary Clinton in the woods,' she told the New York Post.
Margot Gerster (left) has insisted the photograph of her chance meeting with Hillary Clinton in the woods after the Democrat's election defeat was not staged
'It was a very positive experience for me and a lot of other people. That's why I posted it.'
She confirmed she had met the politician before when her mother hosted a fundraiser in Clinton's honor at Crabtree's Kittle House in Chappaqua.
Ms Gerster said she was aged 14 or 15 when she was pictured posing for a photo inside the restaurant, which is one of the politician's favorites.
It was this picture that prompted speculation the meeting in the woods may have been set-up.
But the mother dismissed claims she was a long-time ally of the Clintons who had orchestrated the heartwarming snap.
'If I were long-time friends of the Clintons, I wouldn't be keeping that a secret. I'd be bragging about it to everyone I know,' she said.
She confirmed she had met the politician before when her mother hosted a fundraiser in Clinton's honor at Crabtree's Kittle House in Chappaqua
The picture was taken when Ms Gerster was out hiking with her young daughter in the upstate New York town of Chappaqua - where the Clintons have a home.
Clinton was said to have been out walking her dogs with former president Bill Clinton, when Ms Gerster spotted them.
The former first lady was beaming from ear to ear in the picture and appeared to have had the weight of the world lifted from her shoulders.
In her caption, Ms Gerster wrote that she was 'so heartbroken' after the Democrat's loss.
'I've been feeling so heartbroken since yesterday's election and decided what better way to relax than take my girls hiking,' Ms Gerster wrote.
The picture was taken one day after Clinton conceded her shock election defeat
'So I decided to take them to one of favorite places in Chappaqua. We were the only ones there and it was so beautiful and relaxing.
'As we were leaving, I heard a bit of rustling coming towards me and as I stepped into the clearing there she was, Hillary Clinton and Bill with their dogs doing exactly the same thing as I was.
'I got to hug her and talk to her and tell her that one of my most proudest moments as a mother was taking Phoebe with me to vote for her.
'She hugged me and thanked me and we exchanged some sweet pleasantries and then I let them continue their walk.'
A New York man was taken to hospital after his girlfriend pushed him onto Manhattan subway tracks during an argument, police said.
The 41-year-old man was briefly hospitalized after he was shoved onto tracks at the Union Square subway station on Monday around 6am.
His 30-year-old girlfriend fled the station and the man told responding officers he had fallen into the trackbed, according to the New York Daily News.
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A 41-year-old man was briefly hospitalized after he was shoved onto tracks at Union Square subway station (file photo) on Monday around 6am
Monday's incident comes just a day after a New Jersey man was arrested for pushing his friend Mike Allison (pictured) onto subway tracks on sunday where he was injured by a train
Allison suffered head and foot injuries after being struck by an oncoming, northbound No. 2 train, police said. He is pictured being removed from the scene early Sunday
The man was not struck by a train and was taken to Bellevue Hospital where he was treated for minor injuries and released.
The incident comes just a day after a New Jersey man was arrested for pushing his friend onto Manhattan subway tracks where he was injured by a train, police said.
Aaron Clary, 25, of Newark turned himself in and has been arrested on charges of attempted manslaughter and assault, police said on Monday.
He and two other men were 'highly intoxicated' when he pushed his pal Mike Allison, 54, during an argument early Sunday at 7.30am, police said.
Sunday's incident occurred at the 18th Street subway station in Chelsea, police said. The victim, the suspect and a third friend were all 'highly intoxicated' police said
Allison suffered head and foot injuries after being struck by a northbound No. 1 train as it entered the 18th Street subway station in Chelsea, police said.
When police arrived at the scene, they found Allison on the tracks, pinned under the train.
He was alert and conscious when he was removed and taken to Bellevue Hospital for treatment where he is in stable condition, according to police.
Allison told police he could not remember what happened and that he had been shoved onto the tracks, the New York Post reported.
The third friend and a booth clerk reportedly witnessed the push.
The victim was alert and conscious when he was removed and taken to Bellevue Hospital for treatment where he is in stable condition, according to police
Following the incident, Aaron Clary, 25, of Newark turned himself in and has been arrested on charges of attempted manslaughter and assault, police said on Monday
It is not clear at this time why Clary and Allison had been fighting.
Clary and his friends had been drinking at Peter McManus Cafe a block away before the incident took place, a police source told the New York Daily News.
The trio had reportedly been drinking since 5pm on Saturday before the Sunday morning incident.
Following the incident, No 1, 2 and 3 trains were running with service changes in both directions before regular service resumed around 10am, amNewYork reported.
Britain last night declared victory as European defence chiefs killed off plans for an EU army with its own military headquarters in Brussels.
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon told fellow ministers they should now instead heed Donald Trumps call for them to spend more on building up their own military capabilities.
But he played down the newly elected Presidents campaign warning that they should not expect protection from Nato if they do not meet defence spending targets.
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon, pictured, warned his EU counterparts that Britain will veto any plans which will undermine Nato while the country remains a member of the union
Boris Johnson was in Brussels today for talks with counterparts over future defence plans
Arriving for the meeting of EU foreign and defence ministers in Brussels, Mr Fallon said: Instead of planning expensive new headquarters or dreaming of a European army, what Europe needs to do now is spend more on its own defence. That is the best possible approach to the Trump presidency. Britain meets the two per cent commitment, other European countries need to increase their own defence spending.
Brussels officials had drawn up a blueprint of steps towards creating a European army including the building of a military command base.
But Mr Fallon had warned Britain would veto any proposals that would threaten Nato while it still remains an EU member.
Last night he claimed success as plans for future defence cooperation were watered down after a string of countries backed the British stance.
He said: Its moving our way. Were avoiding a new military headquarters, the level of ambition seems to have been tempered.
So we have moved a long way from the initial concerns about an EU army. And that is not simply Britain, there was resistance around the room from a large number of member states. The level of ambition has clearly changed.
During the U.S. presidential election Mr Trump provoked alarm by saying he would look to see if Nato member countries had 'fulfilled their obligations to us' before deciding whether to come to their aid in the event of a Russian attack.
Mr Johnson, pictured in Brussels today, told reporters that the UK would not seek to block closer military cooperation within the EU, despite concerns about undermining NATO
Mr Johnson shared a laugh with Italian Foreign Minister Paolo Gentiloni (pictured right) and Belgian Foreign Minister Didier Reynders (pictured centre) at the summit today
Under Natos collective defence rules, members are all bound to protect each other if one came under attack.
Mr Fallon last night said European countries need not worry so much about Mr Trumps election if they stepped up their defence spending, but dismissed his warning as campaign rhetoric.
Every successive American administration has played its leadership role in Nato, I dont expect a Trump-led White House to be any different, he said.
Only five of Natos 28 members (Britain, Estonia, Greece, Poland and the U.S.) are currently on target to meet their commitments to spend two per cent of their national income on defence.
US president-elect Donald Trump caused alarm during his election campaign by suggesting Washington would think twice about coming to the aid of an endangered NATO ally if it had not paid its dues
Figures show that Slovenia, Spain, Belgium and Luxembourg currently achieve less than one per cent.
Mr Fallon said: We all made that commitment at the Wales summit [in 2014]. Some 20 countries have started to increase their defence spending, but only 10 I believe have set out firm plans to meet the two per cent in addition to the five that meet it at the moment.
So that is 15, only half of the 28 are actually committed to the 2pc and that is not good enough.
The EUs foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini last night insisted The European Union is a superpower but she dismissed claims she had wanted to create an EU army.
A man who was dumped by his fiancee has had a legal bid to reclaim the cost of an engagement ring he bought her squashed in a civil tribunal.
Bilal Omari, from Canberra, first approached the family of Melbourne woman Fadwa Yassine with the proposal of an arranged marriage in 2014.
The pair celebrated an engagement party in May last year, during which the ring and other gifts were exchanged, but the relationship broke down five months later.
It's believed the engagement was called off after Mr Omari refused to relocate to Melbourne, which Ms Yassine's father understood to have been a mutual agreement.
Mr Omari took legal action against his former fiancee when she refused to return the ring, asking for the value of the ring and other gifts plus interest.
Canberra man Bilal Omari took his former fiancee Fadwa Yassine to court to reclaim the costs of the engagement ring after their arranged relationship broke down (stock image)
Documents recording the former couple's legal dispute were filed in the ACT's Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT).
Senior ACAT member Graeme Lunney dismissed the claims, meaning Ms Yassine can keep the engagement ring, but ordered both parties to pay their own legal fees.
'In my view there was not a unilateral withdrawal by one party in breach of a prior promise, but a recognition by two people that their relationship had reached a tipping point, and in the absence of any further action was over,' Mr Lunney said.
'Consequently, in my view there was no 'breach' that occurred in the ACT which would give this Tribunal jurisdiction in the proceedings brought by the applicant.
'It was mutual recognition of an unhappy state of affairs that was beyond repair. In those circumstances the Tribunal lacks jurisdiction to adjudicate the dispute.'
Slater and Gordon's head of family law Heather McKinnon told news.com.au that the court's classification of an engagement ring as a gift or an investment piece was crucial in determining where it ended up in the event of a break-up.
'You don't go to court and pay $20,000 to $30,000 in lawyer's fees over a $5000 ring. You do it if it's of significant value,' Ms McKinnon told the publication.
'Usually it's with arranged marriages where big money changes hands, so these relationships are more likely to give rise to disputes.
'Often people go overseas to get the diamond and bring it back to Australia to get the ring fitted, so then it rises in value considerably.'
Mark Krikorian thinks the deal will be shut down under Donald Trump
A prominent US anti-immigration think tank does not believe deal will last
Mr Turnbull said they will deal with
The Turnbull government's new refugee deal struck with the U.S. should go ahead under president-elect Donald Trump according to the prime minister.
Malcolm Turnbull said he was 'confident' the new deal to take refugees from Manus island and Nauru detention centres to the U.S. under a deal struck with the Obama administration would go ahead.
Issues were raised after president-elect Donald Trump fervently campaigned on putting up a wall to keep Mexicans out.
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Speaking on the ABC's 7.30 Mr Turnbull was only willing to tackle one administration at a time as the issue had not been discussed with Mr Trump
A prominent US anti-immigration think tank has warned the deal won't last Mr Trump's first day as president (Stock Image)
But, speaking on the ABC's 7.30 Mr Turnbull was only willing to tackle one administration at a time as the issue had not been discussed with Mr Trump.
'We deal with one administration at a time. You don't discuss confidential matters with one administration with a future administration,' he said.
Up to 1600 refugees at the detention camps are eligible to move to the U.S., but the timing and number of people is up to the U.S. government.
Asked if the deal will go ahead if no action has taken place before Trump is in office on January 20, Mr Turnbull was adamant.
'You are entitled to speculate about that, but I'm confident that the arrangements that we've set in place will continue,' he said.
Labor leader Bill Shorten said the opposition would take a 'constructive approach'.
A prominent US anti-immigration think tank has warned the deal won't last Mr Trump's first day as president.
'My sense is that when the word gets out on this, it'll be dead on arrival,' Mark Krikorian, executive director of the influential Centre for Immigration Studies, told Fairfax Media.
Malcolm Turnbull said he was 'confident' the new deal to take refugees from Manus island and Nauru detention centres to the U.S. under a deal struck with the Obama administration would go ahead (Stock Image)
'I don't expect any Republicans will defend it; I can't see a lot of Democrats defending it either.'
Refugee Council president Phil Glendenning described the deal as a vital first step.
But One Nation Leader Pauline Hanson is not happy.
'I feel for the American people. They are going to get these refugees, that it is not their responsibility at all,' she told the Seven Network.
A leading German socialist has caused fury after calling on Jeremy Corbyn to block Brexit.
Axel Schafer, the politician in charge of Brexit for the Social Democratic Party (SDP), said Mr Corbyn had made a 'big mistake' by promising to back the triggering of Article 50, which sets in motion the two-year process for leaving the EU.
Amid increasing fears that MPs could defy June's referendum, he accused the Labour leader of abandoning the 48 per cent of voters who backed staying in the EU in June's referendum and urged him to rethink his approach.
But his controversial intervention has enraged Brexit supporters. Tory MP Peter Bone told MailOnline that Mr Schafer should 'but out of our politics and get his own house in order'.
Jeremy Corbyn (pictured at the BBC's studio in central London yesterday) has been urged to block Brexit by Labour's sister party in Germany
Mr Corbyn confirmed yesterday that he will instruct Labour MPs not to oppose Theresa May's plan to trigger Article 50 early next year.
But more than 80 MPs are threatening to defy June's Brexit vote by voting against Brexit in Parliament, which will go ahead if the Government loses its appeal against the High Court ruling that said MPs and peers must be consulted before Article 50 is triggered.
Mr Schafer said Labour should oppose Britain's departure from the EU because a majority of the party's voters backed Remain.
He told The Times: 'It is a big mistake of Corbyn to say the majority of the people were in favour, therefore the Labour Party supports Brexit.'
Mr Schafer added: 'Of course they have to vote against Brexit. If the majority of people are in favour of this, Labour should say, "OK, we are sorry but we cannot follow always the majority". Otherwise this is the end of different parties.'
His comments drew an angry reaction from Tory MPs.
Axel Schafer (pictured), the politician in charge of Brexit for the Social Democratic Party, said Mr Corbyn had made a 'big mistake' by refusing to block Brexit
Mr Bone said: 'German MPs shouldn't stick their noses in our politics... don't stick your oar in and get it wrong.'
'At least Corbyn's had the sense to accept the will of the people. I think he's [Mr Schafer] probably part of the European elite and completely out of touch.'
He added: 'What you don't do is get involved in another country's elections and start telling them what to do.
'It is part of the European elite that they think they know best and they think they know better than us.
'He should butt out of our politics and get his own house in order.'
Mr Schafer's intervention will embolden Lib Dem leader Tim Farron, who is leading the growing number of MPs and peers committed to blocking any vote on triggering Article 50.
The coalition of 84 Lib Dem, SNP, SDLP and Labour MPs are expected to amend the Government's Article 50 bill with demands for a second referendum.
They will only vote for Article 50 if the Government gives the public a vote on the final deal.
The plot threatens to derail Mrs May's timetable for leaving the EU by spring 2019.
Tory MPs have called on Mrs May to call their bluff by calling a snap election to give her a mandate for triggering Article 50, but Downing Street has repeatedly ruled out calling an election before 2020.
Jeremy Corbyn (pictured alongside Theresa May at yesterday's Remembrance Sunday ceremony in central London) has promised not to seek to 'frustrate' the Government's timetable for triggering Article 50
Mr Corbyn pledged not to join the coalition of MPs demanding a second referendum and said that despite demanding assurances from the Government on workers rights and access to the single market, he said he will not seek to 'frustrate' the Government's timetable for triggering Article 50.
Nearly two thirds (63 per cent) of Labour voters backed remaining in the EU but Mr Corbyn told the Andrew Marr Show yesterday that Labour will 'respect the referendum' result. 'Therefore, there is going to be a departure from the European Union,' he said.
'We will demand that we have market access, workers' protection, consumer protection, environmental protection, justice issues through the European Court.'
More than half of voters (57 per cent) believe MPs should act in line with the referendum result when the Commons decides on leaving the EU, with 30 per cent saying they should go with their consciences.
Donald Trump wavered on his promise to appoint a special prosecutor to investigate Hillary Clinton's use of a private email server after the catchphrase 'lock her up' was frequently chanted at his rallies.
Trump said he was 'going to think about it', adding, 'They're good people. I don't want to hurt them,' during an interview with 60 Minutes on Sunday.
Trump adviser Rudy Giuliani also weighed the possibility and acknowledged a case against Clinton 'might look like a vindictive prosecution' even though he wanted 'equal justice under the law'.
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Donald Trump wavered on his promise to appoint a special prosecutor to investigate Hillary Clinton's use of a private email server
Trump's first TV interview since the election aired Sunday evening (pictured, on 60 Minutes)
After supporters continued to chant 'lock her up', Trump said in July: 'I've been saying let's just beat her on November 8th. But you know what, I'm starting to agree with you.'
He left many viewers stunned during the second presidential debate in October, when he told Clinton she'd be in jail if he were 'in charge of the law in our country'.
He said: ' If I win, I am going to instruct my attorney general to get a special prosecutor to look into your [email] situation because there has never been so many lies, so much deception.'
On Sunday, Trump was unsure about whether he would follow through during his first sit-down interview since the elections.
'I'm going to think about it,' he said, promising that he would have a 'very, very good and definitive answer' on his next 60 Minutes interview with host Lesley Stahl.
Trump said: 'Um, I feel that I want to focus on jobs, I want to focus on healthcare, I want to focus on the border and immigration and doing a really great immigration bill.
'We want to have a great immigration bill. And I want to focus on - all of these other things that we've been talking about.'
He told Stahl that while his opponent 'did some bad things', the Clintons are 'good people'.
'I don't want to hurt them,' Trump said.
Clinton's (left) use of a private server dogged her throughout the campaign, with Trump supporters frequently chanting 'lock her up' (right, FBI director James Comey)
He left many viewers stunned during the second presidential debate in October, when he told Clinton she'd be in jail if he were 'in charge of the law in our country'
Giuliani also called it a 'tough decision', weighing both options before saying it would be up to the next attorney general - a position he could very well be appointed to.
He told ABC's George Stephanopoulos on Sunday: 'As a lawyer, I hate to use the 'on the one hand, but the other,' but on the one hand, you don't want to disrupt the nation with what might look like a vindictive prosecution, even though it might not be.
'On the other hand, you want equal justice under the law, and if she has violated the law you know, the FBI never completed the [Clinton] foundation investigation.
'That's, as far as I know, that's still an ongoing investigation. They completed the email investigation, but not the Foundation investigation.'
Giuliani said: 'I don't know if that will be me or not, but the next attorney general would have to figure that out.'
But even then, Giuliani said the decision would most likely be passed onto an independent counsel, before adding: 'Or maybe that you want to sort of put that behind you. I don't know, that's a tough decision.'
Giuliani (pictured) said: 'I don't know if that will be me or not, but the next attorney general would have to figure that out'
In July, FBI director James Comey announced while Clinton was 'extremely careless' in her use of a private email server, 'no reasonable prosecutor' would bring a case against her.
But on October 28, just 11 days before the elections, Comey sent another letter to Congress announcing the FBI had uncovered emails possibly related to its earlier probe.
Comey told lawmakers the Sunday before the election that the bureau had found no evidence to warrant criminal charges, but Clinton said the move only motivated Trump supporters.
Giuliani was referring to a federal investigation centered around claims the Clinton Foundation doled out favors in exchange for donations while Hillary was Secretary of State.
The FBI stalled the investigation, in addition to another one linked to Trump's campaign for fear of influencing the presidential election in either direction, only for Comey to break step with the precedent set throughout the summer.
Business / Companies
by Thobekile Zhou
The controversial Dema Diesel Power Plant is consuming 25 million litres per month which is all imported duty free, a parliamentary committee heard today (Monday).However, the Dema project consumes 12 million litres of diesel per month to produce 100MW.The multimillion dollar Dema Diesel Power Plant was meant to consume 24 million litres of fuel per month.The plant is said to be a priority under Zim-Asset.However, during the commited session, Zanu PF Zvishavane-Ngezi MP John Holder queried why the 25 million litres for Dema project is being permitted to be imported duty free instead of the prescribed 12m litres.In response, a Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Agency ( ZERA) official said the "extra" fuel is for emergency purposes.Sakunda Holdings, which has partnered with President Robert Mugabe's in-law Derrick Chikore, brother to Simba was awarded the contract, initially pegged at $194 million a year, without going to tender.The project was mooted by government last year as a measure to ease acute power shortages which saw households and industry endure rolling power cuts that helped decimate local industry.
After Donald Trump's stunning election victory, Twitter has erupted with funny memes imagining Vice President Joe Biden's last laugh at the White House.
The memes hilariously imagine Biden coming up with ploys to prank president-elect Trump before he takes office in January.
They also shed light on Biden and President Barack Obama's close relationship as his eight years in office come to an end.
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After Donald Trump's stunning election victory, Twitter users have come up with hilarious memes imagining Vice President Joe Biden coming up with ploys to plank Trump
The memes imagine Biden having a last laugh at the White House before Trump takes office
In one meme, Biden says he is going to ask Trump if he wants something to eat before adding, 'and then I'm going to offer him knuckle sandwiches'
Some of the amusing memes made reference to Trump and the so-called 'birther' movement he fueled that questioned whether Obama had been born on US soil and was thus eligible to be president.
In one scenario, Biden and Obama are seen walking down a corridor as Biden holds onto Obama and says: 'C mon you gotta print a fake birth certificate, put it in an envelope labeled "SECRET" and leave it in the oval office desk.'
In another meme, the pair are seen smiling as they look at photos on Joe's phone before he mentions another trick up his sleeve.
Some of Biden's imagined pranks included replacing the toiletries with travel size bottles for Trump's tiny hands', Biden wanting to play 'The Imperial March' when Trump arrives at the White House and setting up booby traps
'Biden: Haha in this one im asking u to leave a fake birth certificate for him to find,' to which Obama replies, 'lmao'.
'It got so many likes,' Biden says before Obama senses an oncoming ploy and quickly shuts it down with 'Joe no.'
Another, showing Biden speaking with both fists raised while Obama stands behind he tells Obama he is going to ask Trump if he wants something to eat.
Obama tells him 'that's nice' before he says: 'And then I'm going to offer him knuckle sandwiches.'
In other pranks, users imagined Biden suggested painting the Mexican flag in the office, removing the letter 'T' from all the keyboards so they can only type 'Rump'
Some of Biden's other imagined pranks include replacing the toiletries with travel size bottles for Trump's tiny hands', Biden wanting to play 'The Imperial March' when Trump arrives at the White House and setting up booby traps.
In one meme showing Biden's meeting with Vice President-elect Mike Pence, he is seen telling him that he will never be better than him as a vice president, reminding him he is the 'king of memes.'
Twitter users also came up with memes showing Obama and Biden's close relationship, including one where they are holding hands in front of Pence.
'Joe, why are you still holding my hand,' Obama asks.
'I wanna freak Mike Pence out,' Biden replies before telling Obama 'to roll with it.
In other memes, Biden has conversations with Vice President-elect Mike Pence telling him he will never be as great as a vice president as him and that he refuses to call Trump 'Mr President'
Trump was elected America's 45th president in an astonishing victory for a celebrity businessman and political novice who capitalized on voters' economic anxieties, took advantage of racial tensions and overcame a string of sexual assault allegations on his way to the White House.
His triumph over Hillary Clinton will end eight years of Democratic dominance of the White House.
The Republican blasted through Democrats' longstanding firewall during last week's election, carrying Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, states that had not voted for a GOP presidential candidate since the 1980s.
He needed to win nearly all of the competitive battleground states, and he did just that, claiming Florida, Ohio, North Carolina and others.
His election has led to demonstrations across the country, with protesters taking to the streets for a fifth straight day on Sunday to protest against Trump.
Trump will enter the White House on January 20.
Barbaro's father and cousin - who shared his name - were also gunned down in gangland related murders
Barbaro's father and cousin - who shared his name - were also gunned down in gangland related murders
A luxury Audi believed to be linked to the underworld murder was found on
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An underworld crime figure with extensive family links to the Italian mafia has been shot dead in a clinical 'execution-style' murder in Sydney's south-west.
The murdered man has been identified as Pasquale Barbaro, 35, a well-known crime kingpin who narrowly avoided an attempted hitman execution in Leichhardt last year.
Police were called to Larkhall Avenue in Earlwood at about 9.40pm on Monday night and arrived to find his heavily tattooed body lying on the footpath in a pool of blood - almost a year to the day since he was shot at on a Leichhardt street but survived.
The 35-year-old consultant was killed outside the home of another suspected Sydney crime identity, construction industry figure George Alex, the Daily Telegraph reported.
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Mr Barbaro, 35, was a well-known crime kingpin who narrowly avoided an attempted hitman execution in Leichhardt last year
Sydney crime figure Pasquale Barbaro has been shot dead in Sydney's south-west on Monday
The murdered mans namesake, grandfather Pasquale Barbaro, was shot during a gangland hit in Brisbane in 1990.
His cousin, also a Pasquale Barbaro, was shot dead during the Melbourne gangland wars in 2003.
Officers from the New South Wales Riot Squad were seen performing a sweep of the area for any further evidence on Tuesday morning.
Investigators believe this hit was targeted and a police source told the publication that Barbaro had been shot in the head.
The Daily Telegraph reported that Barbaro was rumoured to be a high-ranking informant to the Crime Commission.
Half an hour later police responded to reports of a burnt-out luxury Audi Q7 nearby, which they suspect was involved in the brutal murder
Mr Barbaro narrowly avoided an attempted hitman execution in Leichhardt last year
Officers from the New South Wales Riot squad were seen arriving at the scene of the shooting on Tuesday morning
The team were ordered to scour the area for any evidence that could lead to an arrest
A key suspect in the failed hit against Mr Barbaro last year was underworld killer Hamad Asaad, 29, who was gunned down in front of his 12-year-old nephew in his own driveway just last month.
Half an hour later emergency services were called to a vehicle fire at Goddard Park, roughly twenty minutes away, where an Audi Q7 was on fire.
Police suspect the burnt-out luxury car - valued at roughly $100,000 - was involved in the brutal Earlwood murder.
The fire was extinguished by NSW Fire & Rescue crews and crime scenes have been established at both the scene of the fire and the shooting.
Horrified neighbours piled into the Earlwood street on Monday night after hearing 'five gun shots' echo in the street.
Police have cordoned off the street so investigators can search for evidence
Two officers scrounge through a bush outside the scene of an underworld shooting
Officers have been at the scene since being alerted to the shooting at 9.40pm on Monday
Two officers get down on the ground to search underneath a car on the street where a man was shot on Monday night
Investigators want to leave no stone unturned as they search for evidence relating to the murder of Pasquale Barbaro
'I was watching TV inside and just heard what sounded like somebody banging something next door - but it was five gun shots,' neighbour Theo Paraskevaides said.
'By the time I sort of come out, I was half asleep ... I went out to the back yard and didn't see anything. I came out to the front and saw a couple of people outside and that's when I ... realised that somebody had been shot.
'I've been here all my life. It's one of the quietest streets in Earlwood. It's quite shocking to be honest.'
Another woman told Nine News she heard the gunshots from inside her home but had no idea someone had been slaughtered until going outside.
She said her friend saw two hooded men fleeing in a car.
An abandoned silver Mercedes sat in the middle of the road with its brake lights on and front door open not far from where Barbaro lay face-down on the footpath.
Suspected underworld killer Hamad Asaad (pictured), who was gunned down just weeks ago, was a key suspect in the attempted hit on Mr Barbaro
Horrified neighbours piled into the Earlwood street on Monday night after hearing 'five gun shots'
Just weeks ago underworld hitman Hamad Asaad, 29, was gunned down in front of his 12-year-old nephew in his own driveway in Sydney's south-west.
The killer was the key suspect in the shooting of gangland boss Walid 'Wally' Ahmad who was executed in broad daylight at Bankstown in April.
But Asaad was also a key suspect in the non-fatal shooting of Pasquale Barbaro in Leichhardt on November 9 last year.
In 2004 Pasquale Barbaro and his father Giuseppe 'Joe' Barbaro were both jailed for their roles in an elaborate drug ring supplying methamphetamine.
Barbaro appeared in the Downing Centre District Court just last week where he applied to have his bail continued ahead of a court trial for serious drug charges.
Barbaro and three others were due to trial early next year on charges of manufacturing 2kg of the drug ice.
Police allege the group manufactured the drug on properties near Goulburn and at Cobbitty, in Sydneys southwest, between October 2010 and November 2011.
Barbaro has been on bail since he was charged in 2012.
President-elect Donald Trump is said to considering conservative radio show host and Fox News contributor Laura Ingraham to be the face of his press operation in the White House.
Two sources familiar with the discussions told The Hill that Ingraham was on Trump's short list for White House press secretary.
Ingraham aided Trump with his debate prep and spoke at the Republican National Convention. She's close to Trump's campaign manager Kellyanne Conway and her deputy David Bossie.
They waged war against the Clintons in the '90s, founding what Hillary Clinton would famously describe as the 'vast right wing conspiracy' working to discredit her husband.
President-elect Donald Trump is said to considering conservative radio show host and Fox News contributor Laura Ingraham to be the face of his press operation in the White House
Ingraham aided Trump with his debate prep and spoke at the Republican National Convention (pictured)
Clinton revived the term in her 2016 campaign, saying the same actors were out to get her family now - they're just better funded than they were when her husband held the White House and operating in the open.
Along with Conway, Bossie, and The Drudge Report's Matt Drudge, Ingraham helped publicize allegations of sexual misconduct against Bill Clinton, Ingraham's ex-boyfriend, Keith Olbermann, the liberal commentator told GQ in October.
Conway says she has been offered a job in Trump's administration but has declined to say what she will be doing.
The only positions Trump has formally announced are chief of staff, which he gave to RNC chairman Reince Priebus, and senior adviser, a title he gave to campaign CEO Steve Bannon.
Bannon was on leave from Breitbart News. He was to return to the right-wing publication after the election but accepted the White House job on Sunday instead.
It is unknown what role Trump's campaign spokeswoman Hope Hicks will have in the administration. She is still managing his media operation.
Ingraham has said nothing publicly to indicate that she's thinking about stepping aside from her own media empire to join the Trump administration and she has not been seen inside Trump Tower by reporters staking out the lobby during business hours.
Other expected administration officials like Conway and Rudy Giuliani have been observed coming and going from Trump's headquarters and namesake building in Manhattan.
Throughout the campaign, Trump had a confrontational relationship with the media, frequently referring to national outlets as 'corrupt' and alleging that they were in league with Clinton.
He blacklisted outlets from his events that wrote articles he said were based on lies, though he eventually dropped the ban.
Ingraham confronted the media in her RNC speech for their treatment of the GOP White House candidate.
'To all my friends up there in the press, you all know why in your heart Donald Trump won the Republican nomination. You know it,' she said. 'You know why he won it? Because he dared to call out the phonies, the frauds and the corruption that has gone unexposed and uncovered for too long.'
Ingraham has said nothing publicly to indicate that she's thinking about stepping aside from her own media empire to join Donald Trump's administration and she has not been seen inside Trump Tower by reporters staking out the lobby
Ingraham served as a speech writer in Ronald Reagan's administration. A former defense attorney, she also clerked for Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas.
The conservative pundit has worked for CBS News and MSNBC, where she hosted the program 'Watch It!', and now appears on ABC News' 'This Week' in addition to Fox News.
Her first book, published in 2000, The Hillary Trap: Looking for Power in All the Wrong Places, took aim at the former first lady for pushing a form of feminism that 'rewards dependency' and 'celebrates victimhood.'
The fourth of her five books , The Obama Diaries, satirizes the forty-forth President of the United States through fake journal entries.
The Laura Ingraham Show has aired on the radio since 2001.
She also owns and operates the LifeZette news site.
A jilted husband accused of stabbing of his estranged partner became 'obsessed' with her, believing she had cheated on him, his retrial has heard.
The Crown's case is that Northern Territory man Darren Ashley stabbed his ex-partner Kirsty Ashley 27 times in May 2012 because he was 'intensely angry' she had left him.
'The accused became obsessed with Kirsty. He contacted her 297 occasions over a two-week period before she sought a restraining order,' prosecutor David Morters told the NT Supreme Court in his opening statement on Monday.
Darren Ashley is accused of the stabbing his estranged partner Kirsty Ashley in May 2012
Mr Morters said the accused believed Mrs Ashley ended their 16-year relationship because she was having an affair with her boss at the local auto shop in Alice Springs.
The court heard Ashley assaulted and stalked his victim in the weeks leading up to the killing.
Then on the morning of May 15 he entered Mrs Ashley's brother's house, where she was staying at the time, and was on the phone to her stepdaughter.
About 11.13am her stepdaughter heard a 'blood curdling scream' from Mrs Ashley before the line went dead, Mr Morters said.
The Northen Territory Supreme Court heard that Ashley became obsessed with her and stalked her for two weeks before stabbed her 27 times
Ashley then used a knife he had brought plus a number of other knives from the home to kill Ms Ashley in a 'frenzied attack'.
Mr Morters said Ashley then allegedly planted a ceremonial 'elvish' sword beside the victim's body and 'dipped it in a pool of blood to send police down the wrong path'.
He then burnt his clothes and ditched the knives in a drain, Mr Morters said.
Ashley also allegedly hid the victim's phone in a hollow log, which police later discovered after calling it.
Kirsty ended their 16-year relationship. Ashley believed that she was cheating on him with her boss
The court heard Ashley turned up to Alice Springs police station on the day of the murder saying was being hounded by a Bandidos bikie pursuing a bad debt.
'He handed over a note suggesting his life was in danger from a member of an outlaw motorcycle gang,' Mr Morters said.
'It's a desperate attempt by the accused to shift the blame.'
Ashley allegedly planted a ceremonial sword next to the victims body and dipped it in a pool of blood send police down the wrong track
The Crown will use forensic samples from the accused's blood found at the scene and on Ms Ashley's telephone and jumper as evidence.
Witness testimony from police and family members including the victim's mother, who discovered Mrs Ashley's body, will also form part of the case.
Justice Dean Mildren told the jury the matter is a retrial.
He never saw the film, which opens with his death on a motorbike in 1935
He was the famous war hero immortalised by Peter O'Toole in Lawrence of Arabia - but did not live to see the epic movie depicting his triumph in the Gulf.
However, a previously unseen letter, reveals that author TE Lawrence always knew his efforts to help the Arabs to victory against the Turks in the First World War, would become legend.
Consoling a friend over the death of his son in the campaign against the Ottoman Empire, he wrote: 'Some day that little business in Arabia will be famous.'
The letter, written to friend F.J. Seaton on Christmas Day in 1918, is one of two in a lot expected to fetch 15,000 at auction in London tomorrow.
Richard Fattorini, of Sotheby's, said: 'It was a very personal letter especially as he consoles his friend about the death of his son. It was never intended for publication. The last line about the Arab Revolt one day being famous is a classic understatement and is a fantastic sign off.'
In a letter to a friend (pictured), he predicted that the victory in Arabia would one day be a legendary story, just months after a momentous triumph in Damascus, Syria
The letter, which comes as a lot also including a rare picture of TE Lawrence in Arab dress (left) (left), refers to the campaign which inspired movie Lawrence of Arabia, starring Peter O'Toole(right)
The lot also includes a rare image of author and archaeologist Lawrence in Arabian dress and photos of the Arab rebels taken by an Australian soldier, Frank Porter.
Lawrence's efforts were initially overshadowed by the millions of men killed in the war with Germany and it wasn't until 1919 that the real story of his remarkable feat became known.
A lecture tour of his exploits with photos and film footage of an area rarely seen by those in the west captivated the world and turned him into a celebrity.
The story of his genius strategy to help the Arabs to victory against the Turks, allied with Germany in the First World War, became well known in Britain.
But he died in a motorcycle accident in 1935, and never got to see the famous epic that won seven Oscars, starring Peter O'Toole as Lawrence alongside Omar Sharif.
The movie starts with Lawrence's death and immortalised him as a war hero, telling the story of his campaign from 1916-1919.
And while he never saw the movie, the letter reveals that for the first time that he knew that tales of his battles alongside the Bedouins would live on.
The lot also includes photos of the rebel Arab rebels taken by an Australian soldier, Frank Porter, showing the hordes preparing for battle atop camels
In this photo, the legions of Arabs rising up against the Ottoman Empire prepare for battle
Images show hundreds of fighters lining up on the hill behind what appear to be Arab officers
This image, appearing to show dignitaries at an airport in the region, is also included in the lot
A WAR HERO WHO HATED PUBLICITY: ASTONISHING LIFE OF TE LAWRENCE Legendary: TE Lawrence barefoot in the desert during the campaign. He was just 46 when he died During the First World War the Turks, allied with Germany and facing the end of their old empire, were beset by an Arab revolt which Britain wanted the Arabs to win. Gifted operator TE Lawrence would become a crucial part of that plan. Born in north Wales in 1888, he learned Arabic on an archaeological dig in Syria. As he spent three years there in the run-up to the war he became sympathetic to the Arab people, who had lived under the rule of the Turkish Ottoman empire for centuries. When the war broke out in 1914, Lawrence became an intelligence officer based in Cairo and two years later the hostilities spread into an Arab revolt. The British Colonel became the adviser to the son of the revolt's leader, Sherif Hussein of Mecca. Renowned for his cunning tactics, Lawrence's small band of forces hit supply routes which distracted Turkish troops from the fighting they were supposed to be doing. His efforts were vital in helping Sherif Hussein's forces win a victory which enabled them to establish a unified state spanning large parts of the Arabian peninsula. The story would later be immortalised by Peter O'Toole in the epic 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia. After the war Winston Churchill appointed Lawrence as an adviser, but he quit the role as he hated the publicity it gave him. Advertisement
The last line about the Arab Revolt one day being famous is a classic understatement and is a fantastic sign off
The letter is dated Christmas Day 1918, shortly after his return from Arabia at the end of the First World War and before he became a household name.
Mr Fattorini, of Sotheby's, said: 'The two letters are signed by Lawrence, one under the name TE Lawrence and the other under his pseudonym TE Shaw.
'The first letter is really important as it is a reflective but newsy account written in the year of his return from Arabia.
'The recipient, F.J Seaton, was somebody he knew very well, somebody he fought alongside.
Peter O'Toole (right) starred as Lawrence of Arabia in the 1962 film as the officer who disrupted supply routes
'It was a very personal letter especially as he consoles his friend about the death of his son. It was never intended for publication.
'The last line about the Arab Revolt one day being famous is a classic understatement and is a fantastic sign off.
'This letter is unpublished and is unrecorded and unknown by Lawrence scholars.
The man convicted of sexually assaulted and brutally murdering British student Meredith Kercher has spotted in a restaurant in Italy laughing and joking with friends while on leave from prison.
Rudy Guede, 29, was jailed for 16 years for stabbing to death the 21-year-old in her flat in Perugia. She was found dead in her flat, with 47 knife wounds.
Tusciaweb reported that Guede, who was jailed in 2008, had been spotted in a restaurant in Viterbo, after being granted temporary release from the nearby Mammagialla prison.
Rudy Guede (pictured, left) enjoyed a meal with friends in a restaurant in Viterbo, Italy, while on a 36 hour leave from prison
It is not the first time he has been allowed out of prison.
In June he was granted leave for the first time as a reward for his 'good behaviour' in prison and spent some of the time working at a volunteer centre.
He has been out twice more since then, but had to stay in a halfway house but on the fourth occasion he was allowed to have breakfast, lunch and dinner outside the hostel.
Rudy Guede (left) has so far served only eight years of his sentence for the brutal murder of Meredith Kercher (right), who was stabbed 47 times at her flat in Perugia
Guede, an Ivory Coast-born drifter, fled to Germany after the murder but was arrested and extradited after his bloody fingerprint was found on a pillow at Meredith's home.
He admitted he was in her flat on the night of the murder but claimed he was in the bathroom when the crime was committed and heard screams. Guede sought to pin the blame on Meredith's American flatmate, Amanda Knox, and her Italian boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito.
They were both jailed for murder but were later freed after their convictions were quashed.
Guede, who has joint Italian and Ivorian citizenship, was spotted dining with friends at a classy restaurant in the Italian city of Viterbo
Guede was pictured this week wearing a grey T-shirt under a checkered shirt as he chatted and dined happily with friends.
He ate an assortment of bruschetta and pasta, apparently chosen by himself, and drank wine and Coca-Cola.
Guede is understood to have graduated with a degree in history and the environment during his time in prison.
Hungry and thirsty: Rudy Guede was allowed out of his halfway house for most of the day during a 36 hour period of leave
Earlier this year Guede, who was jailed for 16 years in 2008 for killing Meredith Kercher, was freed from prison for the first time for 'good behaviour'
The Ivory Coast-born drifter was originally granted temporary release from Viterbo's Mammagialla prison to attend a volunteer centre for prisoner assistance
Guede is the only person to have been definitively convicted of Miss Kercher's murder in Perugia in 2007
Wearing a white shirt and blue jeans, he looked relaxed and happy as he was greeted upon his release in June this year
Earlier this year Italian newspaper La Repubblica reported Guede as saying: 'I will again be able to feel the sun on my skin and look out of the window without bars before my eyes.
'Thirty-six hours, each one of them precious. I thank everybody who has had faith in me.'
Amanda Knox, who was convicted and later acquitted of the killing, previously said she was disappointed by the decision to release Guede from prison, all be it temporarily.
Rudy Guede (pictured during an appeal hearing in 2009) has been granted 36 hours outside prison for good behaviour while serving 16 years for the murder of British exchange student Meredith Kercher in Italy
Guede was convicted of killing Miss Kercher (above) who was stabbed 47 times at her flat in Perugia in Italy
She said: 'I regret that Rudy Guede has never regretted it [the murder] and I hope that those who granted him permission [to leave jail] did it for social reintegration.'
Knox and her boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito were initially found guilty of murder and sentenced to 26 years in jail in 2009.
However, they were acquitted in 2011 after evidence used against the pair was found to be flawed.
American exchange student Amanda Knox (left) and her boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito (right) were initially found guilty of murder and sentenced to 26 years in jail in 2009, but definitively acquitted by Italy's Supreme Court last year
Knox immediately returned to the United States protesting her innocence, but in January 2014, the Italian courts overturned that acquittal and reinstated the guilty verdict.
However, the case ultimately went to the Supreme Court and their conviction was definitively overturned in March last year.
Knox has since taken her case against Italian police to the European Court of Human Rights, claiming she was mistreated during the murder investigation.
A nurse who volunteered to fight Ebola put the public at risk by hiding her colleague Pauline Cafferkey's high temperature on the flight home, a tribunal heard today.
Donna Wood is said to have backed up Ms Cafferkey's claim that she 'felt warm' on the flight home after 'sleeping in a hoodie on the plane.'
Wood allegedly intentionally mis-recorded Ms Cafferkey's elevated temperature - the first symptom of the deadly Ebola infection - during the 'chaotic' screening process on their return to the UK from Sierra Leone on December 28, 2014.
Misconduct hearing: Donna Wood, a nurse who volunteered to fight Ebola, put the public at risk by hiding her colleague Pauline Cafferkey's high temperature, a tribunal heard today
She appeared before an independent panel at the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) in Stratford, east London, facing three misconduct charges, including recording the reading dishonestly in order to hide it from public health officials.
Wood, who could be struck off, is accused of writing down a temperature of 37.2C after a doctor, Hannah Ryan, had taken Ms Cafferkey's temperature twice, with readings of 38.2C and 38.3C.
A temperature above 37.5C required further assessment by doctors at the Public Health England (PHE) screening room, the NMC's Aja Hall said.
Delays in the screening process at Heathrow, which were the result of PHE staff being 'not properly prepared' to handle the volume of at-risk visitors, meant Wood's group had begun taking their own temperatures, Ms Hall said.
Dr Ryan had taken Ms Cafferkey's temperature and found it to be elevated.
Reading the medic's statement, she said: 'It was just me, Pauline Cafferkey and Donna Wood present.
'I took her temperature in her left ear - it was 38.2C. I showed it to Pauline, the thermometer.
'I told her to stay calm, we were both a bit panicky. Donna was recording the temperatures on the form.
'I took it again in the right ear - it was 38.3C. I asked Pauline if she was feeling OK, she said she was OK.'
Dr Ryan then goes on to say 'I stood there in shock, it was like I was paralysed. I had no clear thought process.
Ebola nurse: Wood is said to have backed up the claim by Ms Cafferkey (pictured) that she 'felt warm' on the flight home after 'sleeping in a hoodie on the plane'
'Ebola is such a horrible disease, every time you have a high temperature you worry, even though you know there's no need.'
Ms Hall claimed Wood suggested the reading was 'artificial', after Ms Cafferkey told Wood she felt 'warm' on the plane, which was attributed to the fact that the Scottish nurse had been sleeping in a hoodie during the flight.
Ms Hall continued: 'Donna Wood broke the inertia by saying "I'm just just going to write it down as 37.2C and then we will get out of here and sort it out".'
At some point at around 5pm Ms Cafferkey took paracetamol before she left the screening area, Ms Hall said.
After the group left the screening room and made it to the arrivals hall, Dr Ryan reported Ms Cafferkey's high temperature to another doctor, who recommended the Scottish medic return to be screened again.
Ms Hall said Ms Cafferkey's temperature was then checked again three times by a PHE consultant and was found to be a maximum of 37.6C, meaning she was given the all-clear to travel on to Glasgow.
The following day, Ms Cafferkey became 'extremely ill' and was admitted to hospital, where she was diagnosed with Ebola.
Dr Ryan said today she was not trying to 'circumvent' the screening procedure in place at Heathrow airport for arrivals from at-risk countries.
She described the symptoms of the 'painful and distressing' disease Ebola as including fever, muscle and joint aches, gastrointestinal problems and vomiting, as well as the most severe symptoms of bleeding from the mouth, ears or eyes.
Dr Ryan said all volunteers were 'very aware of the risks' and that they were trained to not put themselves or others at risk of infection.
She said the mortality rate at the treatment centre in Sierra Leone, which was around 40 per cent, was more than many medical professionals from the UK were used to dealing with, adding: 'We saw lots and lots of people die. It's a painful and distressing disease.'
Dr Ryan told the NMC that none of the volunteers were given any details of the screening process they would have to undergo during their training.
The day after returning home, Ms Cafferkey became 'extremely ill' and was admitted to hospital, where she was diagnosed with Ebola. She is pictured in February this year
She said her temperature was checked at least five times on 27 December 2014, twice in Sierra Leone, twice in transit and once more at Heathrow.
She also said that volunteers in the West African country would occasionally give incorrect readings above the 'flag point' of 37.5C, when security staff at the medical centre left the thermometers out in the sun.
Dr Ryan said Ms Cafferkey did not finish her final meal in Sierra Leone, but that this was not unusual, describing her as 'a vegetarian who didn't like vegetables.'
She said when she landed at Heathrow she went to passport control and was then 'waved straight through to baggage reclaim', before thinking it was a 'little odd' that none of her colleagues had made it through.
She said there were at least 35 other healthcare workers waiting to be screened at the PHE-run screening point, which was not 'properly prepared'.
Dr Ryan told the hearing that it was a colleague, Dr Mark Wilcox, who said words to the effect of 'If it's only a temperature you need, why don't we take each other's?'
WHAT IS EBOLA? Ebola is a viral hemorrhagic fever that can be contracted by humans and other primates. Symptoms start between two to three days after the sufferer comes into contact with the virus. Initial symptoms include fever, sore throat and headaches. The Ebola outbreak in West Africa started in March 2014. The epidemic killed 11,315 people across Liberia, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, the US and Mali. Liberia declared it was free of Ebola in June 2016, which meant there were no known cases in any of the affected West African countries. Advertisement
She said they were 'just trying to help' and it was 'not an attempt to circumvent the procedure.
Dr Ryan said she took Ms Cafferkey's temperature twice at Heathrow and both times it was over the 37.5C threshold and added she recalled 'Donna stood next to me on my left.'
She said: 'I assumed that [Donna Wood] had seen what was on the thermometer....because I held it up in front of me.
Ms Hall asked: 'Did Donna Wood react?'
Dr Ryan replied: 'I don't recall her reaction really.'
She said: 'At the time, I didn't feel safe in the screening area. I felt that we needed to get out of there.
'I was definitely not trying to cover up.'
Dr Ryan told the hearing that she had overheard someone that she believed to be Wood saying Ms Cafferkey had taken a paracetamol and that it could mask her elevated temperature.
'I overheard someone said that Pauline had taken a paracetamol, and I thought it was Donna, and commented that taking paracetamol might mask a higher temperature,' she said, adding: 'I knew that what we had done wasn't right and could potentially lead to difficulties.'
Ms Hall asked what it was that Dr Ryan felt they had done wrong.
'We allowed an incorrect record of Pauline's temperature to be made when she was originally screened.'
Asked who recorded PC's temperature, Dr Ryan said: 'I don't have an image of it in my mind.'
Ms Hall asked: 'Who had hold of her form?'
Dr Ryan replied: 'Donna.'
She was also asked if it was Wood who suggested they mis-record Ms Cafferkey's temperature and 'get out of there'.
Dr Ryan replied: 'I am certain it was Donna said something. I'm not certain what she said.'
Asked what her reaction was, she said: 'I basically didn't react. I didn't do anything, didn't object or say anything.'
Ben Rich, cross examining, suggested that Dr Ryan could not know for certain whether Wood looked at the thermometer after Ms Cafferkey's temperature was taken.
Dr Ryan replied: 'I would agree with you. I don't have a clear image in my mind.'
Mr Rich also asked whether the digital thermometer was capable of storing previous results which were saved in its memory, to which Dr Ryan agreed.
Donna Wood broke the inertia by saying "I'm just just going to write it down as 37.2C and then we will get out of here and sort it out" Aja Hall, of the Nursing and Midwifery Council
Mr Rich suggested Dr Ryan could have pressed the wrong button and recalled a previous reading that was not Ms Cafferkey's.
Dr Ryan also admitted that she didn't 'clearly remember who it was who took [her] temperature.'
Mr Rich suggested that Dr Ryan's memory was not very accurate and therefore she might not have been the one to take Ms Cafferkey's temperature.
She replied: 'My memory was not very accurate for the event of who took my temperature, but I have a very clear memory of taking Pauline's temperature.
Dr Ryan also told the tribunal that she faces a General Medical Council disciplinary hearing on Match 20, 2017.
Wood made no admissions to any of the allegations at Monday's hearing.
At the time Wood was a senior sister at Haywood Hospital in Staffordshire and was one of the first group of NHS medics to travel to West Africa.
She featured in the Department for International Development's promotional campaign, when she was hailed as a 'hero' by then international development secretary Justine Greening.
While in Sierra Leone, where the disease killed almost 4,000 people, Wood worked for Save the Children.
Ms Cafferkey was cleared at an earlier hearing in September of allowing the incorrect temperature to be recorded.
An NMC panel found three charges against her were not proven and her fitness to practise was not affected.
It ruled her judgment at the airport in December 2014 had been so impaired by the developing illness that she could not be found guilty of misconduct.
Up to 80 per cent owned by overseas investors and most are Chinese
Sydney's new pocket of luxury along the stunning harbour has become a magnet for foreign investors.
Up to 80 per cent of Barangaroo has been snapped up by overseas buyers and most of them are wealthy Chinese investors, according to The Daily Telegraph.
The pull is so luring for rich Chinese buyers, auctioneers and agents are selling apartments on Barangaroo Avenue for almost double the price they were bought off the plan just three years ago.
Barangaroo is one of Sydney's luxurious new pockets on the Sydney Harbour (Stock Image)
The pull is so luring for rich Chinese buyers, auctioneers and agents are selling apartments on Barangaroo Avenue for almost double the price they were bought off the plan
Prices for Barangaroo apartments have nearly doubled in three years according to Raine & Horne Real Estate City Living
Draw cards of stunning views, modern architecture, a central location and a new $2 billion casino has been too tempting for foreign buyers
The new glamour pocket of Sydney has been whispered for some time now, but the draw cards of stunning views, modern architecture, a central location moments away from the CBD and a new $2 billion casino has been too tempting for foreign buyers.
Matt Mifsud, Raine & Horne Real Estate City Living, has two apartments for sale in the Alexander and Anandara towers and both properties have doubled in value in three years.
One of the main draw cards for Sydney's Barangaroo living is the incredible harbour views (Stock Image)
Agents say because architects, builders and designers have not held back in producing an incredible luxurious hub (Stock Image)
His two bedroom apartment was $1.875m back in 2013 and has jumped to $3.15m, and the three bedroom penthouse soared from just under $4 million to $6 million.
'For Chinese buyers, part of the appeal is the status of living in Barangaroo,' Mr Mifsud told the publication.
'It's attracting buyers from China and other countries not only because of its quality but the precinct it's in.'
According to Mr Mifsud's colleague, head of auctions James Pratt, Chinese investors wanting to buy apartments in Sydney's 2000 postcode often don't even travel to Sydney as they know of the quality.
He said this is because architects, builders and designers have not held back in producing an incredibly luxurious hub.
To cap off the desire for foreign investors to throw their money at the Sydney property market, two up-and-coming residential and commercial towers plus the casino have created noise.
To cap off the desire for foreign investors to throw their money at the Sydney property market, two up-and-coming residential and commercial towers plus the casino has created noise (Stock Image)
Girl X was repeatedly raped by carers before fatally overdosing in 2014
The boy has been buried at a cemetery just metres from Girl X, 15
Police and the NSW Ombudsman are reportedly investigating the death
, died on March 26 2015 under the care of Sydney
A young boy has died while under the care of the same foster home agency who ran the home where Girl X infamously died of a drug overdose in 2014.
Police are investigating the death of the five-year-old boy housed in a Uniting Care run foster home in Pennant Hills, north west Sydney, on March 26 last year, reported the Daily Telegraph.
The boy has been buried at a cemetery just metres from Girl X, 15, whose harrowing tale of sexual abuse and drugs sent shockwaves through the nation.
Afive-year-old boy has died while under the care of a notorious foster home agency
A spokeswoman for Family and Community Services Minister Brad Hazzard told the publication a review of the death was undertaken finishing in December 2015.
'As FACS advises this is currently a police matter, he is unable to comment further,' the spokesperson said.
The NSW Ombudsman is also reviewing the circumstances of the death, with speculation there may be a public inquest in January.
Uniting Care ran the foster home which house abused teen Girl X, who had allegedly been raped repeatedly by carers before she died from an overdose of drugs given to her by an older man.
A male case worker, with 26 years' experience, told an inquest into her death the horrible circumstances of Girl X's life included some of the worst treatment of a child he'd seen.
Predatory adults coming and going through the home had used her in their drug dealings, and probably for prostitution, and introduced her to criminals, he said.
The boy has been buried at a cemetery just metres from Girl X, 15, (pcitured) who was also living in a Uniting Care foster home
The harrowing tale of sexual abuse suffered by Girl X (pictured: an older man running into her foster care room) sent shockwaves through the nation
A mother delivered her baby herself and dumped the child on a freezing doorstep in a Tesco carrier bag, a court heard.
The baby girl was found at 8am in the morning suffering from hypothermia and was lucky to survive.
She was adopted and the police never discovered who the mother was until she was arrested six years later and matched to the child through her DNA.
A woman received an 18-month community order after being convicted of abandoning her baby daughter on a doorstep in Flaxman Road, Camberwell, pictured
Prosecutor Martin Whitehouse told Inner London Crown Court: This is in many ways is very sad and in some respects reminds one of a chapter in Dickens.
The woman, from Camberwell, south east London, had a son with her long term partner and got pregnant during a brief fling.
She delivered the tiny girl as her son slept in another room before putting her in a bag.
In February 2009 this lady left the child in a carrier bag on the doorstep of a house in Flaxman Road, Camberwell, Mr Whitehouse said.
She was found at 8am, suffering from hypothermia.
Mr Whitehouse said the February of 2009 was particularly cold and the baby was lucky not to have more serious physical effects from the temperature.
Last year the mother, in her 20s, was arrested for her part in a fraud after putting her bank details into a bogus charitable website.
Her account was used to swindle 27,000 out of an elderly woman in Kent.
By coincidence, last year, the defendant was arrested on a completely different matter of fraud allegations, said Mr Whitehouse.
And of course there were fingerprints and DNA left in the carrier bag and in clothes in which the child was wrapped.
Mr Whitehouse said it was an unusual case of its kind as usually babies are abandoned as the mother is wanting to have a fun lifestyle.
He said his woman was depressed and faced difficult circumstances.
Siobhan Molloy, defending, said that as yet, no charges had been brought against the woman for the fraud.
She (the victim) appealed to what she thought was a charitable website for help, provided her bank account and it was used in fraud, said Ms Molloy.
The child was found wrapped in a Tesco carrier bag in an incident that was 'reminiscent of Charles Dickens' (file picture)
Ms Molloy said the mother had left the newborn at the front door at 7am and the child was found just before 8:30am.
She was in denial when she was pregnant, you may ask why she did not go to hospital, she was not in her right mind, she said.
The child is now hopefully living a blissfully ignorant life.
The baby girl was fostered and later adopted and the mother, who was openly weeping in court, has had no contact with her since.
She brought with her to court a letter written to the child to give to social services to be opened, if the child so wished, when she turns 18.
The court heard how the woman often thinks of her daughter especially on her birthday.
The judge Mr Recorder Peter Rouch QC said he did not believe the case should be classed as long term abandonment.
He told the woman: That is when you leave a child for a week like if you go on holiday to Ibiza or something like that.
At the time, according to a psychiatrist, you were suffering from depression and in the circumstances you did not face up to the pregnancy, you were in denial.
You self delivered and then wrapped her in a Tesco carrier bag and left her at the door.
The baby was found, taken to hospital, attended to by the hospital, looked after, fostered and later adopted.
The judge said she had no previous convictions and no issues with drugs or alcohol.
A psychiatrist says you need specialist help as you have not come to terms with what happened in 2009, he said.
London Inner Crown Court (pictured) heard the woman was suffering from depression at the time and a judge spared her a jail sentence
They have recommended you seek help in a voluntary basis.
The woman could have faced up to 26 weeks in prison but the judge spared her jail and instead handed her a community order for 18 months.
She will have one to one sessions with a supervising officer.
Mr Rouch said it was vitally important that her supervisor was given the psychiatric report.
Hopefully if that is done your supervisor will encourage you to seek the help you obviously need.
Go to your general practitioner who will direct you to the appropriate professional who will give you the help you want.
The woman was convicted under Section 1.1 of the Children and Young Persons Act 1933 for wilfully abandoning a person under 16.
Entertainment / Music
by Future Moyo aka Jamelah
The award winning Kezi born - United Kingdom based actress Samantha Ncube Mahlangu has been nominated for another award in film under the actress of the year category for Zimbabwe Music And Arts Awards UK 2016, (ZIMAA UK).On her first award she said it was a "pleasant surprise ," now Speaking from her base in UK,she said that she is humbled by the unwavering support shown by fellow artists and fans . "I am honoured to be celebrated by my own country," she said.Apparently the former Donkwe Secondary School student says she never attended any formal training in film,in fact her cousin Musa James naturally spotted the inherent talent and automatically casted her via her connections in film industry. She thus joined the industry by chance in 2012 ,and her debut film was entitled "Amazansi" produced by Lawrence Mthinsi,a Zimbabwean lawyer-turned film producer in UK. From there her acting matured with age like wine and now she finds herself mentoring the upcoming producers cutting across different continents.Switchbod Arts Magazines learns that during her four years in the film industry ,Mahlangu has featured in numerous Nigerian movies which finally landed her the first award from the Cameroonian film and Movie Academy early this year.Recently she featured in a Nollywood UK movie and also in another film with "Uwadi Production," where she acted alongside Mzansi actor Kagiso Module who is popular for his role as Mangaliso Nyathi in the famous Mzansi soapie "Scandal."Mahlangu is known for her motivational messages to upcoming artists, and through Switchbod platforms she has always tried to uplift the struggling young artists."Artists must not give up, they must keep pushing and learn from others," she further told Switchbod.She also challenged the women to stand up for themselves and be counted amongst the pacesetters.Now she dreams of setting up an orphanage, school,and a modeling agency in Zimbabwe. She says all her charity passion is derived from her field of study in Applied Social Sciences where she holds a BA (honours) degree .To vote for this Bulawayo'finest follow these guidelines below:
But some have called the campaign offensive saying the term is demeaning to men
The phone lines will be manned by feminists, comedians and scientists
Term refers to when a man talks to a woman in a
Swedish women who believe they have been the victim of 'mansplaining' in the workplace can now report it to a dedicated union hotline (file picture)
Swedish women who believe they have been the victim of 'mansplaining' in the workplace can now report it to a dedicated union hotline.
Unionen, which represents more than 600,000 private sector workers, is persuading female members to report instances of male colleagues explaining things to them in a patronising manner.
The term 'mansplaining' is used when someone explains something to another, usually a woman, in a manner regarded as condescending or patronising.
And according to The Local, the hotline will be manned by feminist politicians, comedians and scientists, who will advise women what to do.
Unionen launched the hotline campaign in an article, where they explained that a study by the American Psychological Association found that men 'tend to overestimate their intelligence to a much greater extent than women.'
The article also claimed that the hotline would help both men and women 'handle this kind of behaviour in your workplace.'
They also told the Local in a statement: 'The purpose of the campaign is not to point fingers or to blame all men.
'The campaign is intended to make us all, men and women, aware of this phenomenon and hopefully to start a change together.
'Everyone wins when we expose suppression techniques and talk about them.'
The term 'mansplaining' is used when someone explains something to another, usually a woman, in a manner regarded as condescending or patronising (file picture)
However, many Swedish workers say they are offended by the campaign saying the term 'mansplaining' is demeaning to men.
Many of the union's workers, especially men, say using negative language does not promote equality.
A teenage girl had her jaw broken in two places when she was savagely beaten by a gang of youths for reportedly removing her headscarf.
A shocking video shows the mob attacking the 15-year-old as teenagers take turns to slap her until she spits blood.
The savage attack happened at a shopping centre in Vienna, Austria where Sharia police from the Muslim Chechen community are known to operate.
A horrific video showing a group of teens savagely beating up a 15-year-old girl has recently emerged online, racking up millions of views in just a couple of days
Two girls can be seen repeatedly slapping their victim as she defiantly stands with her hands in her pockets, refusing to run or fight back fearing the beating would get worse.
A third girl with brown hair, wearing a white jacket, was then seen rubbing her hands together before slapping the teen.
Then the victim was hit by a boy and was seen spitting out blood onto the floor.
She was reportedly taken to hospital following the attack last Wednesday and was being treated for a double jaw fracture.
The footage showed a gang of four youths taking turns to assault the teenage girl while she stood with her hands in her pockets
The video was posted to Facebook following the attack and has since gained close to three million views.
The Austria edition of The Local reported that four people were being investigated by the police.
Ringleaders of the gang are said to be a 16-year-old Chechen boy from and a 16-year-old girl from Austria.
According to reports, the girl, who was seen spitting blood at the end of the video, had her jaw broken in two places
According to the report, the Chechen boy went to the police on Saturday and said he was involved in the assault.
Vienna police spokesman Paul Eidenberger said: 'We know the youngsters, they were already involved in similar cases in Lower Austria.'
He's the man behind the campaign that has set Twitter alight to give Californian voters a referendum on going it alone in the wake of last week's election.
Along with thousands of social media mentions, 30-year-old Louis Marinelli now also has the backing of some of Silicon Valley's heaviest hitters Iranian-born billionaire venture capitalist Shervin Pishevar, 42; entrepreneur David Morin, 36, whose fortune is estimated at $100m; and Orange County-based Google designer Marc Hemeon, 41.
But while the rest of the US was glued to their TV screens as last week's drama unfolded, Marinelli, a former Republican voter from Buffalo, New York, wasn't even in the country.
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Louis Marinelli (left) is the former English teacher behind Yes California, which aims to give the state its independence from the United States. Marinelli is pictured campaigning for his cause on his Facebook page
Marinelli, who was born in New York, needs to collect a million signatures in order to propel an independence referendum onto the ballot in 2019
Instead, he was in Russia's capital, Moscow, where he wants its first embassy. 'I need to get away sometimes,' Marinelli, who now calls San Diego home, told DailyMail.com.
'I don't like living under the U.S. flag and it's not healthy for me to be around all the negativity that you see in the country, in the politics, every day.
'For my own personal development, I sometimes just need to get away.'
But by his own admission, Marinelli's trip to Moscow wasn't all about time off. The 30-year-old former English teacher is also in the process of setting up an international office for Yes California! the separatist campaign he spearheads in the Russian capital.
'For now, it will house [campaign] representatives,' he explains. 'Then hopefully, when we get independence, it will become an embassy instead.'
Marinelli's journey from Republican New Yorker to Californian independence campaigner is an interesting one one that, unsurprisingly, has its roots in Russia.
It was to Russia he traveled in 2007 after finishing high school for a stint as an English teacher, working first in Samara in the west of the country and then Kazan, in the semi-independent republic of Tatarstan.
In 2009, he moved to Russia's historic capital St. Petersburg and studied at the university there, which counts both President Vladmir Putin and his predecessor, Dmitry Medvedev, among its former students.
Although he returned to the U.S. to live in California in 2011, it was in Putin's heartland that he realized that 'not everyone thinks Americans are good guys'.
'I hadn't realized before then,' he continues, 'that the way the world sees America isn't the same as how we see ourselves.'
Inspired: The Calexit campaigner studied at Vladimir Putin's alma mater and found living in Russia 'that the way the world sees America isn't the same as how we see ourselves.'
Along with thousands of social media mentions, 30-year-old Marinelli now also has the backing of some of Silicon Valley's heaviest hitters including (right) entrepreneur David Morin, 36, whose fortune is estimated at $100m, and billionaire venture capitalist Shervin Pishevar, 42 (left)
Orange County-based Google designer Marc Hemeon, 41, is also a Calexit supporter
So enamored of the former Soviet Union's largest member state was Marinelli that he briefly contemplated citizenship and is now married to a Russian woman named Olga.
But Russia aside, Marinelli has another passion, albeit one he says he wishes he didn't - politics.
Although originally a registered Republican, he was immersed himself in the Democratic Party as a teenager, volunteering for the 2004 primary campaign of John Edwards.
Later, he became an outspoken opponent of same-sex marriage but ultimately concluded he was wrong, resigned from the National Organization for Marriage. In April 2011 he apologized to the LGBTQ community for his years of activism much of it done remotely from Russia against them.
While largely unsuccessful, Marinelli's early political experiences did have the result of sharpening his acute disappointment in the U.S. system of government.
By 2014, by then back in America for three years, Marinelli had concluded that the way forward for California, his adopted home state, was United Kingdom-style devolution and ultimately independence.
San Diego-based Marinelli was in Moscow on election night, taking time off - but also laying plans for a Californian embassy
Home to just over 39 million people according to the most recent figures, California is the most populated state in the U.S. and one of the wealthiest.
If it became independent, it would, in terms of GDP, become one of the world's top 10 richest countries displacing France which currently occupies sixth place.
California is also a Democrat stronghold, last plumping for a Republican presidential candidate in 1988, and voting for Hillary Clinton in this year's contest by a margin of 28 percentage points.
Unsurprisingly, the election of Donald Trump has been greeted with howls of outrage and protests in nearly all of its major cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco and Oakland.
Since the election results were announced, interest in 'Calexit' as the independence movement has been nicknamed has shot up, with 13,000 new voters joining the Yes California! Facebook group, the same again following the campaign's official Twitter, and 10,000 new volunteers pledging their support.
The campaign needs a million signatures in order to propel a referendum onto the ballot in 2019
Since the election results were announced, interest in 'Calexit' as the independence movement has been nicknamed has shot up
Marinelli is hoping to capitalize in anti-Trump dissatisfaction
All of which, as an understandably gleeful Marinelli points out, bodes well for the campaign's stated aim of getting an independence referendum on the ballot for the spring of 2019.
'The first thing we need to do and the thing we're focusing on right now is establishing a mandate from the people of California for independence,' he explains.
The plan includes getting volunteers out on the streets to collect the million signatures required to propel an independence referendum onto the ballot in 2019.
After that, assuming the vote goes in Yes California's favor, Marinelli says the state will declare independence and invoke the Universal Declaration of Human Rights essentially demanding the right to self-determination and then recognition of the result from other nation states.
'There's going to have to be some kind of a transition period of negotiation where a lot of details are ironed out between Washington [DC] and [state capital] Sacramento,' adds Marinelli.
'But all that is way down the line so first of all, what we're focusing on is getting the ballot measure qualified for 2018, step one, and step two, getting the actual ballot measure passed in 2019.'
The concept of a state withdrawing from the Union is nothing new. Indeed, as recently as April this year, Republicans in Texas overturned an attempt to force a vote on whether the state should secede at a local party convention.
Alaska, New Hampshire, Vermont and Hawaii also have separatist movements, while an outfit called the Cascadia Independence Movement proposes turning Oregon, Washington State and the Canadian province of British Columbia into its own country.
In 1982, Key West, in Florida, declared itself independent as the Conch Republic motivated by a Border Patrol roadblock across Highway 1, the road from Miami to Key West, aimed at stopping illegal immigrants from Cuba reaching the mainland.
The new 'country' immediately declared war on the U.S., symbolically broke a loaf of stale Cuban bread over the head of the nearest Marine, and then surrendered one minute later.
It then went on to demand a billion dollars from America in 'foreign' aid.
In 1982, Key West, in Florida, declared itself independent as the Conch Republic after the Border Patrol set up a roadblock aimed at stopping illegal immigrants from Cuba reaching the mainland. This sign greets arrivals at the Key West International Airport
In this 2006 picture Peter Anderson, left, self-appointed Republic of Conch secretary general, raises stale Cuban bread while charging toward the Old Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon, Florida in a symbolic seizure of the historic structure
Now back in the arms of the Union, the Conch Republic still issues souvenir passports but ran into trouble in 2001 when it transpired that 9/11 hijacker Mohammed Atta was in possession of one at the time of the attacks.
But the checkered past of American separatist movements to date isn't enough to put off Marinelli who says California is a different prospect entirely.
'We are a separate nation already,' he insists. 'It's clear in our mentality, it's clear in our culture, it's clear in our history. Those are things that make us different from the Americans.
'It's not that we disagree with the Americans on everything but there is certainly some gap between an American and a Californian.
'There's a geographical gap [in the deserts and mountains west of the Mississippi River] but also there's a state of mind that's different.
'In California, we support things like diversity, tolerance and equality and then the Americans go ahead and elect someone like Donald Trump I think there's a huge gap there between our two states of mind.'
Nonetheless, Trump's election, which precipitated the latest round of calls for independence in California, as well as in neighboring Oregon, isn't seen as entirely bad thing by Marinelli.
He agrees with Trump on the question of maintaining good relations with Russia and says that as a businessman, the president-elect is more likely to be able to strike a deal.
Hillary Clinton, he says, suffers from a 'Cold War, antiquated mindset' and would have gone into the White House seeing Putin as an adversary from the outset.
But in all other respects, he says that Californians have little in common with the newly minted leader of the free world.
'We are open to immigration into California, it's a very diverse place, and it's a very important part of our culture and our economy I'm talking about immigrants themselves,' he says.
'An independent California will be a place that welcomes immigrants from other places around the world, a place that welcomes refugees from places around the world. I think that's kind of exciting.'
Under Marinelli, California would become a 'progressive' paradise along the lines of Denmark - a constitutional monarchy famous for its well-funded welfare state - where money would be lavished on healthcare, education and quality of life, but diverted away from the military.
Other measures would include the use of the U.S. dollar and a 'gold card' system for immigrants from within and without the United States.
Cooperation with other countries, including Trump's America, is also important. 'Donald Trump may not be the President by [the time California becomes independent] but if he is, then we're willing to work with and be friends with any country in the world even the Americans,' says Marinelli.
'What we don't want to do is follow the Americans into every war that they start. I know there's a couple of countries that follow America into every war that they start and we're not going to do that.
'We're going to stand by and protect and preserve our principles as Californians and among those would be the idea of peace and cooperation between countries.'
Marinelli, who says he will renounce his U.S. citizenship and become exclusively Californian if the independence referendum goes his way, says Trump's election is indicative of a problem 'with the soul of the country'.
But for all that, he isn't totally sorry that the Democrats' worst nightmare has come about. 'We believe in our hearts that independence for California is the best result and the best thing we could do in the long run for California,' he says.
'So if it takes the election of Donald Trump to convince Californians to get on board with this campaign, then from that perspective, we say, OK, maybe it's a good thing that Donald Trump was elected.
Video rant: Melyssa Jo Kelly, 65, went on a bizarre rampage against police in Iowa
A 65-year-old Iowa woman has gone viral for a video she filmed of herself tearing down a group of police officers who were mourning a fallen comrade.
The bizarre rant occurred at the Brewhemia cafe in Cedar Rapids on November 6. The woman, Melyssa Jo Kelly, started filming herself inside the coffee shop, as she took issue with three officers who had black bands over their badges.
The band is worn by officers who have lost a colleague in the line of duty.
However Kelly slammed the cops for caring about one of their own, and not a black man, Jerime Mitchell, 37, who was shot by police in a traffic stop in Cedar Springs a few days earlier.
'We got the popo wearing the black thing on her badge. Guess she's sorry a couple of cops got whacked in Des Moines,' Kelly says.
Attacked: These are two of the officers that Kelly took issue with, accusing them of ignoring the shooting of a black man in the days prior
Pointing at a female officer in the cafe, Kelly continued: 'But she doesnt give a s--- about the man who is in critical care at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics with a bullet in his neck from one of the wonderful and vicious thug brothers in blue.'
'Of course we know that the pig does whatever it wants, whether its streaming live or whatever. The only thing that ain't live about the popo (sic) is they way they kill people and get away with it,' Kelly said.
The police try and get Kelly to move on after the owners of the cafe asked her to leave and she refused. The cops threatened to arrest her for trespassing, but eventually gave her a warning.
When the female officer said Kelly's behavior is comical, she says to her: 'Then why don't you go and die laughing.'
On her Facebook page, where she posted the video, Kelly is vocal in her political views, especially of her hate of Donald Trump and her support of the Black Lives Matter campaign
Melyssa Jo Kelly (left) was accusing police of ignore the shooting of Jerime Mitchell, 37, who was shot by police in a traffic stop in Cedar Springs a few days earlier
As Kelly is escorted out, begrudgingly, she says: 'Dont pretend like you serve and protect, you b**** out of my way, popo (sic).'
On the way out, Kelly says she is disabled and screams for the officers to let out of her
'Get this jacked-up, trigger-happy pig off me,' she yelled.
Out on the street, Kelly continues: 'I say f*** the police, now and forever more. Spending tax dollars protecting killers and f****** with people. F***the police.'
Scene: The bizarre rant occurred at the Brewhemia cafe in Cedar Rapids on November 6
As of Saturday afternoon, the video has been viewed more than 160,000 times.
Court records show that Melyssa Jo Kelly has been ordered to pay fines in Iowa for at least four counts of disorderly conduct, two counts of interference with official acts and one count of trespass.
The nation's Roman Catholic bishops are urging President-elect Donald Trump to adopt humane policies toward immigrants and refugees.
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops said serving and welcoming people fleeing conflict and violence is part of their identity as Roman Catholics. Church leaders said they would continue to offer that aid.
Trump talked tough about immigration on the campaign trail, including proposing building a wall along the border of U.S. and Mexico and deporting all 11 million illegal immigrants.
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Election time: Bishops are meeting in Baltimore to elect their own president in succession to Louisville's Archbishop Joseph Kurtz (center)
Prayers: The bishops said they were praying for the president-elect, who used a CBS 60 Minutes interview on Sunday night to distance himself from elements of his migration platform
He later distanced himself from those statements. In an interview with CBS' '60 Minutes' broadcast Sunday night, he said he would focus on deporting people with criminal records beyond their immigrant status.
The bishops made the plea Monday, at the start of their annual fall meeting in Baltimore.
Pope Francis, who became involved in a public dispute with Trump during the campaign, has offered no comment so far on the presidential election's outcome
However the tone of the bishops' statement suggests an attempt to reconcile the very divergent views of their flock.
Exit polls suggest that among those who voted, a majority of white Catholics voted for Trump, but that two-thirds of Hispanic Catholics voted for Clinton.
Although the church has seen its Hispanic membership grow significantly, to an estimated 34 per cent in 2014, according to Pew Research, it remains majority white.
It is also disproportionately over-represented in the north-east, which includes Pennsylvania, where Trump pulled off a surprise victory.
Fortified border: One of the protected section of of the border, at Tijuana
Deportations: Mexican illegals who were rounded up are sent across the border at Laredo City
And in other north-eastern states where Clinton won, areas which voted for Trump were often disproportionately Catholic, such as Staten Island, the New York borough which bucked the ultra-liberal city's overall trend.
The president of the Catholic Bishops Conference, Archbishop Joseph Kurtz, of Louisville, Kentuck, marked the election of Trump as president by saying 'millions of Americans who are struggling to find economic opportunity for their families voted to be heard'.
'Our response should be simple: we hear you,' he said.
And after it the chairman of the conference's committee on migration, Bishop Eusebio Elizondo, issued a carefully-worded statement on the issue which suggested an attempt to reach some sort of compromise on the issue.
'I personally pledge my prayers for Mr. Trump, all elected officials, and those who will work in the new administration,' he said.
'I offer a special word to migrant and refugee families living in the United States: be assured of our solidarity and continued accompaniment as you work for a better life.'
He added in which appeared designed to be accommodating towards the Trump view:
'We stand ready to work with a new administration to continue to ensure that refugees are humanely welcomed without sacrificing our security or our core values as Americans.'
American Catholics have built a vast network of aid and advocacy programs for immigrants and refugees. U.S. bishops are especially attentive to the issue given that Latinos comprise about 4 in 10 U.S. Catholics and are already a majority in several dioceses.
Archbishop Joseph Tobin of Indianapolis, Indiana, had opposed a request from Indiana Gov. Mike Pence, that the Catholic church stop settling Syrian refugees in the state. Tobin brought an Iraqi refugee to a meeting with the governor, who is now the vice-president elect. Tobin is one of three U.S. church leaders whom the pope will make cardinals in a ceremony Sunday in Rome.
Ukraine's bid to join the EU took a new twist today when semi-naked pictures of the country's deputy interior minister in charge of European integration were revealed.
British-educated Anastasia Deeva, 24, was already under fierce attack in Kiev for being too young for the job, and to have been appointed without proper vetting - which her boss dismissed as 'bigotry' and 'ageist'.
Now Interior Minister Arsen Avakov has defended the married minister's topless photographs, claiming critics were 'asexual' or obsessed by moralising.
Tasteful: The naked pictures were found on Anastasia Deeva's social media by Ukrainian journalists investigating allegations she was in a relationship with her boss, something which an Interior Ministry source has denied
He said her pictures were 'private' and taken when she was a student, a time when she also worked as an aide to various Ukrainian MPs.
Despite this, the revealing photos remained on her social media after her appointment as being one of the key figures in the Ukrainian government's aim of integrating with the European Union.
A source in the ministry denied she was in a relationship with her boss after a flurry of social media speculation.
Anastasia Deeva (pictured, right) has been defended by Interior Minister Arsen Avakov (left)
'That she is having an affair with Avakov - it's all nonsense,' said the source.
Ukraine's deputy speaker Irina Gerashchenko said: 'The question is not about the nude photos.
'People can take any pictures they like and the photographs cannot be the basis for any appointment or dismissal.
The pictures of Ms Deeva are a mixture of artistic (left) and jokey (right, with spaghetti dangling from her mouth) but were not removed from social media after her appointment as a minister
'Nor is the question about hypocrisy, which, like sexism, we really should overcome together. The question is about violation of procedures,' added Ms Gerashchenko.
She claimed the deputy minister was appointed 'without any competition' and her official CV contains 'wrong data'.
Journalist Konstantin Stogny wrote: 'I'm terribly sorry...but is this really the next head of the law enforcement agency (Interior Ministry) in Ukraine?
Many politicians in Ukraine feel that Anastasia Deeva (pictured) is not qualified for the role
'I'm not trying to moralize on what is bad or good. I'm just trying to understand the trends.'
She has also faced criticism for her expensive taste in Western clothes brands.
Mr Avakov hit back saying that in Soviet times the position would have been held by a 'real monster - and she is just a girl.'
Mr Avakov has defended her 'high capacity for work and communication skills' and pointed out she was fluent in French and English
She had a 'high capacity for work and communication skills', an excellent Masters degree and was fluent in English and French, he said.
She was facing attack because of her young age, she said but her appointment had been approved by the Cabinet.
'Photo albums, thrown onto the Internet with such an effect, feed low feelings,' he said.
Anastasia Deeva (pictured, left, during a meeting in parliament) had previously lived in Sweden, where she worked on green technology
'Has a student no right to private photos? It is bigotry - or you are incorporeal or asexual, or moralising on her bright clothes and bare lines?'
Deeva spent her childhood attending a school in 'a small town near Manchester', according to her social media.
She said: 'The first time I earned money, when I was 8 years old, was when our Ukrainian delegation in the UK collected money to build a house for street children.'
The images of Ms Deeva (pictured) are believed to date from her student days and are artistic, rather than pornographic
She later switched to study in Kiev doubling up as a political aide to MPs for the party headed by toppled pro-Russian dictator Viktor Yanukovych.
Her first official work was when she was 18 - she became an aid to a deputy.
Her husband, Grogory Deev, 33, co-owner of an advertising agency, has not commented on the images.
Meghan Markle wasn't always sure about which prince she preferred.
Footage has been recovered from a quick-fire interview which shows her struggle to pick between Prince William and Harry - just months before her royal romance blossomed with the latter.
The American actress was speaking to Hello! in a live Periscope question and answer session last October, in Canada.
She was asked by the reporter: 'Prince William or Prince Harry?' in the Periscope video
The 35-year-old divorced Suits actress shook her head, laughed and replied: 'I don't know'.
It was not until the reporter prompted her by saying 'Harry?', that she picked her favourite. Giggling again, she answered: 'Harry? Sure'
She was asked by the reporter: 'Prince William or Prince Harry?'
The 35-year-old shook her head, laughed and replied: 'I don't know'.
It was not until the reporter prompted her by saying 'Harry?', that she picked her favourite. Giggling again, she answered: 'Harry? Sure'.
Markle, who has yet to comment on her royal romance, also talked about social media abuse something the Prince Harry spoke out about on her behalf in his statement last week.
She added: 'If we treated ourselves as well as we treated our best friend, can you imagine? It would be so much better.'
Meanwhile, Prince Harry's new girlfriend didn't have enough time to meet the Queen this weekend because of her acting commitments.
The Mail exclusively revealed images of Meghan this week out in Kensington, near Harry's home at Kensington Palace
Prince Harry was not sitting next to his new girlfriend Meghan Markle and instead put his thumb up while standing next to Princess Charlene of Monaco
Markle's work meant she could only spend two days in London with her prince.
The Suits actress jetted off to Canada to continue filming the legal drama and wasn't around to link up with Harry and attend England's rugby match against South Africa on Saturday evening.
Markle's visit to London followed Harry's own trip to Toronto to spend Halloween with his new girlfriend.
A source close to the prince, 32, told the Express: 'It was only a mini-break because she's got filming commitments.
'There's been a lot of talk of her being introduced to the Queen and Prince Charles but there simply hasn't been time.'
Steamy footage of Meghan Markle has emerged of her lying naked in bed with co-star Patrick J Adams in series three of the hit American show Suits
Harry had to make do with sitting next to Princess Charlene of Monaco, 38, during the Autumn International - which England won 37-21
The Mail exclusively revealed images of Meghan this week out in Kensington, near Harry's home at Kensington Palace.
Harry had to make do with sitting next to Princess Charlene of Monaco, 38, during the Autumn International - which England won 37-21.
Bookies slashed their odds that the prince and the US actress would be seen together at the 82,000-seater stadium to see the squad take on the Springboks after Ms Markle was spotted in Kensington on Thursday.
Markle's visit to London followed Harry's own trip to Toronto to spend Halloween with his new girlfriend
The 35-year-old has jetted off to continue filming the legal drama Suits and wasn't around to link up with Harry and attend England's rugby match against South Africa on Saturday
The pair are said to have been dating for several months but have not been seen in public together.
While she was shopping, Harry, 32, was at a solemn ceremony at the Field of Remembrance outside Westminster Abbey.
of the trust for the grandchildren after filing a lawsuit earlier this year
Three of Sumner Redstone's five grandchildren are set to take on bigger roles in the media empire created by their grandfather while all five will be receiving equitable disbursements from his multi-billion dollar trust after his death.
The three children of Sumner's daughter Shari Redstone - Tyler Korff, Brandon Korff and Kimberlee Korff Ostheimer - are all now directors on the board of their grandfather's company National Amusements.
And after a lawsuit was filed this summer by Sumner's granddaughter Keryn Redstone, it has been ruled that she, her sister Lauren Redstone Ellis, and their three cousins will all receive equal disbursements from Sumner's trust.
Those will not come however until after the deaths of Sumner and his first wife Phyllis, and their two children Shari and Brent according to an article about the family in The Wall Street Journal.
And the National Amusement stock would not be received until the youngest grandchild is 60, which means it will be at least another 30 years until the grandchildren and any children they have might start to see a large portion of the trust.
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In the money: Sumner Redstone's five grandchildren will receive equal disbursements from their grandfather's multi-billion dollar trust (32-year-old Brandon Korff left, 30-year-old Tyler Korff right)
It will be split between the three children of Shari and Brent's two daughters (l to r: Sumner, Keryn, Phyllis and Lauren Redston, Kimberlee and Brandon Korff in 1997)
Shari's three children are also now directors on the board of National Amusements (34-year-old Kimberlee left) while Keryn and Lauren (right) have no role in the family company
The Wall Street Journal article also reveals that the transition of power at Sumner's company happened thanks in part to his 30-year-old grandson Tyler.
It was Tyler who reportedly reached out to former Viacom chief executive Philppe Dauman after he filed a lawsuit when he was removed from Redstone's trust, and convinced him to step down from his role at Viacom.
Tyler, a lawyer and rabbi, always had a good relationship with Dauman despite the executive's open disdain for Tyler's mother Shari.
Shari was also the only board member who voted against Dauman when he was elected as the Executive Chairman of Viacom earlier this year, taking over for Redstone.
The two met in secret with their lawyers and after 'hundreds of hours of negotiations' reached a deal that would replace Dauman and overhaul the company board.
Now that the transfer is done, the Redstone family has an 80 per cent voting share at both CBS and Viacom.
Keryn and her sister Lauren, who works in public policy and lives in Washington DC, do not have any position in the family business.
Their father Brent was bought out of his shares in 2006 after filing a lawsuit against his father and the company.
Shari said in a statement to The Wall Street Journal: 'All of my children - Kim, Brandon, Tyler, as well as my niece LeeLee - played significant roles in the results that we achieved this past year.
'We were all of the same mindset and share a common goal.'
She did not however make any mention of her niece, likely as a result of the lawsuit filed by the young woman earlier this year.
It was Tyler, 30, who worked behind closed doors with Viacom CEO Philippe Dauman to get him to step down earlier this year (Kimberlee, Shari, Sumner, Brandon, Tyler and Jason Ostheimer in 2012)
Redstone, 93, is worth a reported $5billion (above with exes Sydney Holland and Manuela Herzer in 2012)
Keryn asked for $6million in a Massachusetts court filing, in which she accuses her aunt of taking advantage of Sumner's deteriorating health.
The 34-year-old previously went after her aunt this past April by filing a declaration in support of Sumner's ex Manuela Herzer as she challenged the competency of the billionaire mogul.
In that court filing Keryn accused Sheri of threatening to kill her, said her grandfather told her that Shari's husband Ira had been stealing from the company and claimed that Shari once said while standing by Sumner's hospital bed: 'If he gets sick, don't take him to the hospital. Let him die at home.'
Keryn also said that Shari pushed for a 'do not resuscitate' order on her father despite the fact that Sumner 'vehemently objected.'
Keryn filed legal papers in Massachusetts Probate Court joining the competency suit that was filed in May by Dauman and longtime Viacom director George Abrams.
Shari is described as a 'thankless child' and 'unfit to lead two media conglomerates valued at over $40 billion' in the papers, which go on to state: 'Shari does not have the requisite business judgment and abilities to serve as chairman of the three companies.'
She is also accused by Keryn of ruining Sumner's legacy.
'One of the cardinal tenets of Sumner's succession planning is that Shari -- whom he did not respect as a business woman and did not trust her ability or desire to commit to sound principles of corporate governance - would never succeed him or be able to wield control over these two public companies,' wrote Keryn's lawyer Pierce O'Donnell in the suit he filed in Massachusetts.
O'Donnell previously represented Herzer in her case against Shari.
President Barack Obama is embarking on one last tax-payer funded journey abroad on Monday.
The seven-day trip will see Obama visit Greece for the first time and stop through Germany for meetings with Chancellor Angela Merkel and other European Union leaders on his way to Peru for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit.
A lame duck president since last Tuesday's national election, Obama is using the week-long escape, that includes a leisurely visit to the Parthenon, to drag his policy agenda over the finish line and convince America's allies that the United States will not tear up binding, international agreements in the age of Donald Trump.
He'll use his final overseas speech to tout the United States' economic growth under his leadership, the White House says, and try once more to put a positive light on globalization.
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President Barack Obama is embarking on one last tax-payer funded journey abroad on Monday. The seven-day trip will see Obama visit Greece for the first time and stop through Germany for meetings with Chancellor Angela Merkel and other European Union leaders
Merkel and Obama are seen talking during Obama's last visit to Germany - in June of 2015 for the G7 summit. Obama lounges on a bench outside of Elmau Castly in between sessions
Obama always planned to travel to Greece and Peru this month to attend APEC. The White House added the stop in Germany to 'signal our solidarity with our closest allies in the world'
The U.S. president had steadfastly promised world leaders that Trump would not win the White House as he pushed them to make commitments to combat climate change, accept his Trans-Pacific Partnership, TPP, that will govern trade in the region and sign on to a nuclear deal with Iran.
Obama said time and time again that members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, NATO, need not be afraid that the United States go back on its promise to defend its allies.
As it turned out, Obama was wrong. Americans voted to elect his political nemesis and ideological opposite. The liberal president is now racing against the clock to salvage what he can of his legacy.
Obama always planned to travel to Greece and Peru to attend APEC, where he'll meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the summit.
The White House added a leg in between to Germany to 'signal our solidarity with our closest allies in the world,' a White House official said.
In meetings with the United Kingdom, France, Italy and Spain, the White House says Obama will stress his administration's 'support for a strong and integrated and united Europe' and 'reinforce our support for the approaches that have been taken over the last eight years to try to promote economic growth, economic security, and global cooperation.'
'First and foremost, focused on trying to ensure that his successor gets off to a good start and has the opportunity to succeed,' Obama's deputy national security adviser for strategic communications, Ben Rhodes, said during a conference call.
Obama cast Trump as 'uniquely unqualified' to lead the country on the campaign trail and urged voters not to give him access to the county's nuclear arsenal.
Just as he told the nation on Wednesday that it must unite behind the president-elect, Obama will go hat in hand to European leaders this week and convince them to work with Trump.
Obama cast Trump as 'uniquely unqualified' to lead the country on the campaign trail and urged voters not to give him access to the county's nuclear arsenal. Just as he told the nation on Wednesday that it must unite behind the president-elect, Obama will go hat in hand to European leaders this week and convince them to work with his nemesis
The sitting president will tell them that 'no matter our preferred choice may have been in the election, right now we as Americans have a stake in seeing this incoming administration succeed, and frankly, the world has a stake in seeing America succeed, given the leadership role that we play.'
'Look, we certainly expect that the election will be the primary topic on peoples minds everywhere we go,' Rhodes said.
He added, 'I think, frankly, that would have been the case no matter what the result. But I think that will be more so the case, given the direction that the election took.'
Despite Trump's victory at the ballot box on Tuesday, the president 'will be running through the tape on January 20th,' Rhodes and other advisers to Obama have said.
'We certainly know the positions that were taken throughout the course of the campaign. We will, of course, fully continue to implement our commitments under the Iran deal and under the Paris agreement,' Rhodes told reporters on Friday, making reference to a treaty the U.S. signed that demands a reduction of carbon emissions.
Rhodes said the current administration recognizes that Trump and his aides will make their own decisions about those policies and it respects their right to do that - but the sitting president will not stop following the blueprint he laid out just because his party lost the election.
President-elect Trump met with President Obama at the White House last week for 90 minutes. They told press afterward they discussed a range of foreign and domestic policy issues.
Trump indicated that the talk with Obama had an effect and that he would be looking to the exiting executive for counsel.
Staffers were excluded from the Oval Office discussion.
However, Rhodes says 'the main focus of their conversation,' was a discussion of the transition period, which lasts just over two months and the 'diverse array of challenges' the country faces.
Among the topics they discussed was the 'complexity in how we're dealing with the terrorist threat, how we're implementing the Iran deal, how the situation in Syria is unfolding, as well as the issues in Europe related to the refugees and NATO.'
Congress has not yet voted on Obama's 12-nation Pacific Rim trade deal. Republicans on Capitol Hill favored it and joined forces with the Democratic president to get Obama the authority he needed to continue negotiating it.
Trump campaigned against the trade deal in the states that won him the election. So did Clinton and congressional Democrats, further crippling legislative attempts to pass the accord.
Obama is taking time off from policy-pushing in Athens, Greece to visit the Parthenon
House Speaker Paul Ryan backs the agreement but promised this summer that it will not come up for a vote before Obama leaves office.
'We still think the TPP makes sense for America for economic and national security reasons, and that it's important that we stay engaged in the region,' Wally Adeyemo, Obama's deputy national security adviser for international economics said during the Friday preview of the president's trip.
The White House official said the administration intends to 'talk about how we can work together over the course of the remaining days of this administration to solidify the partnership with those countries.'
Obama is also slated to deliver a speech in Greece and hold a town hall for young people in Peru, in addition to government meetings in Germany.
'We had not written the speech in advance of the election, so I can't say that we're editing it,' Rhodes admitted in the Friday call.
The senior administration official said that the president would, however, dedicate a significant portion of his remarks to globalization as he did at his final United Nations General Assembly.
'That will include, frankly, acknowledgement of our election results, the Brexit election results, and the sense that we've seen in a number of countries,' he said, 'there are challenges as people feel like decisions are made beyond their control, in some cases, as economies change, as inequality has persisted and, in some cases, has grown.'
Obama is also expected to talk about the 'enormous progress' the United States has made since he took office in 2009, 'climbing out of the enormous economic hole, going from the depths of a Great Recession to years of job creation and economic growth, and narrowing inequality.'
'We believe that we've set a good direction at home even as we also worked with countries around the world to stabilize the global economy which had been in a free fall, including many of the partners that we'll be meeting with,' Rhodes said.
The White House official contended that 'even with all the progress we've made, we recognize, no matter what had happened in November that more work needed to be done.
The Philippine President, who sparked concern on his war on drugs, warns ISIS he would forego human rights
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte warned on Monday that Islamic State militants driven out of Syria and Iraq could set up in his country, and if that happened he would forego human rights obligations to keep his people safe.
Duterte said the southern Philippine province of Mindanao was already a hotbed of rebellion and banditry and he was worried about "looming terrorism" and an influx of extremists who could exploit the insecurity.
'Once the terrorists of the Middle East are deprived of the land area, the real estate area where they can sleep ... they will wander to other places and they will come here and we have to prepare for that,' he said during a speech at a law enforcement agency.
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Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has warned ISIS he will take action if they attack and won't let his people suffer
'Remember, these guys, they do not have an iota of what is human rights, believe me.
'I will not just simply allow my people to be slaughtered for the sake of human rights, that's bulls**t.'
Human rights have been a touchy subject for President Duterte, who has vented daily fury at activists and Western governments that have shown concerns about his war on drugs and the high death toll.
A native of Mindanao and mayor of Davao City for 22 years, Mr Duterte said there was a "very strong" Islamist rebellion there and Abu Sayyaf rebels were taking hostages almost every day.
Abu Sayyaf is holding 21 captives, most of them foreign, and despite an ongoing military offensive to wipe them out, its piracy and kidnappings continue unabated.
Mr Duterte said the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia were working closely to keep foreign extremists at bay.
A native of Mindanao and mayor of Davao City for 22 years, Mr Duterte said there was a "very strong" Islamist rebellion there and Abu Sayyaf rebels were taking hostages almost every day. Pictured, ISIS member in Iraq
On Friday, he warned that he may use his executive power to tackle lawlessness in the Philippines by suspending habeas corpus, a legal safeguard against arbitrary arrest and detention.
The constitution allows 60-day suspensions "in case of invasion or rebellion, when the public safety requires it" and would permit arrests without warrant and detention without charge for three days.
Mr Duterte mentioned habeas corpus on Friday in the context of both the southern unrest and his war on drugs and said building cases for arresting suspects took too much time and resources.
News / Local
by Alice Dube
Three soldiers based at 1 Infantry Brigade in Bulawayo allegedly fatally assaulted an Insiza man after squeezing his testicles over a bicycle.The gruesome incident happened on Saturday.The trio Fighter Mwembe (30), Bright Nyoni (28) and Ntandoyenkosi Sibanda (26) have since been arrested.Their alleged victim is Josiah Sithole.According to reports, before the incident the soldiers were doing maintenance work at Mapolisa Brigade in Fort Rixon.However, when returning from a beer drink at Masudu Business Centre they spotted their colleague Emmanuel Mkhize laying drunk along the dust road.He was next to Sithole's bicycle."When they failed to wake up Mkhize, the trio decided to take the bicycle with them for safekeeping."The owner of the bicycle arrived and demanded his bicycle."The soldiers refused to give him the bicycle claiming that it belonged to their colleague. A misunderstanding led to the deadly attack"
Wreckage was recovered but the pilot ejected and is in a safe condition
It had taken off from the flagship aircraft carrier the Admiral Kuznetsov
Aircraft is thought to have suffered mechanical problems before crashing
A Russian navy jet crashed in the Mediterranean after taking off from Putin's flagship aircraft carrier which was sent to support Assad in Syria.
The Russian defence ministry confirmed the MiG 29 fighter came down close to the Admiral Kuznetsov carrier yesterday afternoon after suffering mechanical problems.
It is believed that the jet had attempted to land on the vessel following a training mission, but was unable to and instead plunged into the water.
The MiG 29 fighter came down close to the Admiral Kuznetsov carrier yesterday afternoon after suffering mechanical problems (file picture of a Russian MiG 29)
According to Fox News, two US intelligence officials said that a rescue helicopter then picked up a parachute and the pilot, who the Russian defence ministry confirmed is safe after he ejected and was taken aboard the carrier.
The wreckage of the aircraft is believed to have been recovered but Russian officials confirmed flights over the Mediterranean would be continuing.
The crash deals a significant blow to the Russians, who are planning to launch airstrikes against rebel-held areas of Aleppo in Syria from the aircraft carrier.
It comes just days after a flotilla of Russian warships sailed to the eastern Mediterranean off the Syrian coast after being sent to back up a bombing campaign in support of President Bashar al-Assad.
The commander of Kuznetsov aircraft carrier, Sergei Artamonov, said last week via videolink that the ships are now in the 'designated zone... in the eastern Mediterranean' and 'are now jointly carrying out tasks, manoeuvering to the west of the Syrian coast'.
The battle group has travelled from the North Sea through the English Channel in the biggest such naval deployment in recent years as part of Russia's military intervention in Syria.
It is believed that the jet had technical problems and attempted to land on the Admiral Kuznetsov, pictured, but was unable to and instead plunged into the water
Russia has been flying a bombing campaign in Syria for the past year in support of President Assad and has deployed a naval contingent to back up its operation.
The naval task force has been monitored closely by NATO, whose chief Jens Stoltenberg voiced concern the ships would be used to support the Russian military operation in Syria and 'increase human and civilian suffering.'
Armtamonov confirmed days ago that aircraft are already taking off from the ship's deck to view the conflict zone.
'Flights are being carried out from the deck... they are working on coordination with the shore port,' he said.
A bizarre claim that Donald Trump was born in Pakistan before being adopted and taken to America has emerged online.
Pakistani news channel Neo News ran an extraordinary report suggesting that the President-elect was born as Dawood Ibrahim Khan in Waziristan in 1946.
Viewers immediately ridiculed the story, which was aired on Neo News last month before the election but has recently re-surfaced.
Pakistani news channel Neo News ran a bizarre report suggesting that the President-elect was born as Dawood Ibrahim Khan in Pakistan in 1946
In the news report, the presenter claims: 'Believe it or not, Presidential candidate Donald Trump was born in Pakistan and not in America.'
The news channel also showed a picture of a young blond boy, which they claimed was a young Trump in Pakistan.
The bizarre theory is that Trump was taken to London by a British-Indian army captain, after his birth parents died in a car accident, before being adopted and taken to America in 1955.
Social media users took to Twitter to mock the news report.
The presenter claims: 'Believe it or not, Presidential candidate Donald Trump was born in Pakistan and not in America'
One person tweeted: 'Seriously!????!!! . Pakistani news channel claims Trump was born in Pakistan !!! Seriously ????'
Another said 'This is insane', while one person simply added: 'Lol... Pakistani media is reporting donald Trump was born in Pakistan!'
A series of unfounded tweets appear to be have been behind the report, with one person suggesting that Trump had been born into a Muslim family.
Social media users took to Twitter to mock the report, with one person writing: 'Seriously????'
Hanna wrote: 'Donald Trump born in #Muslimfamily in Shawal Valley North Waziristan June 14th 1946, name was Dawood Ibrahim Khan.'
Prior to standing for President, Trump himself had for months fueled conspiracy theories over whether Barack Obama was born in the US, and thus eligible to be president.
An exasperated Obama called this nonsense and held a press conference in 2011 to show off his birth certificate, which stated that he was born in Hawaii.
Protest have taken place in a French town after a pensioner was allegedly sexually assaulted by a Sudanese boy shortly after his arrival from Calais.
The 67-year-old woman was unloading her shopping in the coastal town of Arzon, in Brittany, when the 16-year-old approached.
Prosecutors say they had a brief conversation in broken English before he kissed her, touched her left breast and then ran off.
The 67-year-old woman was unloading her shopping in the coastal town of Arzon (file picture), in Brittany, when the 16-year-old approached
The incident sparked anger online amid calls for a protest, according to reports in France.
The woman told police she was 'not afraid' but wanted to report what had happened to her, said Francois Touron , prosecutor of Vannes.
He said the minor had arrived at a local reception centre from Calais.
Police say the minor had arrived at a local reception centre from Calais, following the destruction of the sprawling Jungle migrant camp (file picture)
The teenager will next appear in court in March accused of sexual assault.
News of the assault, on Thursday evening, sparked controversy on social media, Le Figaro said.
There were calls for a demonstration today at the town hall 'to oppose the reception of migrants', the newspaper reported.
It comes just weeks after French authorities launched a clear-out of the Calais migrant camp, re-housing refugees in new accommodation across France.
Ten men from Brazil and Paraguay are set to be deported after investigators busted an illegal cigarette operation which was costing the taxpayer 138million a year.
HM Revenue & Customs officers and West Midlands Police raided an illegal cigarette-processing factory on an industrial unit in Birmingham.
The illegal operation could churn out 35million cigarettes a month and was costing the taxpayer almost 138million every year in lost duty and taxes.
Ten men from Brazil and Paraguay aged between 26 and 40 were arrested by Immigration Enforcement officers for immigration offences and are set to be deported.
A raid led by HM Revenue & Customs has resulted in an illegal cigarette making factory being closed down
The factory in Birmingham, West Midlands, was churning out around 35million cigarettes a month
The cigarette-processing factory (left and right) was discovered following a joint operation
Inside the factory, officers found four lorry loads of processed and raw tobacco, cigarettes and packaging materials.
They also removed machinery used to process cigarettes and paperwork. A nearby residential address was also searched.
Stuart Taylor, Assistant Director, Fraud Investigation Service, HMRC, said: 'Tobacco fraud costs the UK 2.4 billion a year in lost tax, money that should be funding vital public services in the UK.
'We continue to work with other enforcement agencies to reduce the availability of illicit tobacco. Don't let criminals profit by undermining legitimate retailers.'
Sajeela Naseer, Head of Trading Standards for Birmingham City Council, said: 'This operation shows partnership working at its best.
'Together we've taken action on illicit tobacco fraud and this factory alone had the potential to deprive HM Treasury of millions of pounds.
HMRC officers and West Midland Police also removed machinery used to process cigarettes
The cigarettes were then packaged inside the factory which was set up on an industrial unit
Ten men from Brazil and Paraguay are set to be deported after investigators busted the operation
Investigations are still ongoing, and anyone with any information about the smuggling or illegal sale of tobacco can report it to HMRC
'Birmingham Trading Standards will continue its investigation in relation to the suspected counterfeit cigarettes found during the operation.'
Officers from HMRC, along with Birmingham City Council Trading Standards, Immigration Enforcement, the Government Agency Intelligence Network and West Midlands Police carried out the raid on Tuesday and Wednesday last week.
Donald Trump's son-in-law will play a significant role in the next presidential administration, according to the man the president-elect has named as his chief of staff.
Reince Priebus said Monday morning on NBC's 'Today' show that Jared Kushner, who married Trump's elder daughter Ivanka in 2009, is among the advisers who will hold the most sway in the Oval Office.
Priebus did not say Kushner will be hired to work for the administration, but made it clear that he has his father-in-law's ear and would be 'very involved in decision-making.'
An anti-nepotism law dating from 1967 makes it illegal for federal government executive office-holders, including the President of the United States, to hire relatives to work under them.
Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner will be 'very involved in decision-making' after the Republican takes over the White House, according to the new chief of staff
Reince Priebus, who will take over the West Wing fom his role chairing the Republican Party, put Kushner in the same class of Trum-whisperer as himself and chief strategist Steve Bannon
Kushner, shown with Trump on Election Night, was instrumental behind the scenes as the billionaire businessman grew his campaign from a shoestring to a powerhouse
The law has never been tested in court, however, and was likely breached when President Bill Clinton appointed his wife to run his administration's ill-fated 'Hillarycare' health insurance reform task force.
The Trump transition team announced Sunday that Priebus would take the chief of staff position, with Steve Bannon serving as chief strategist and senior counselor to the president.
The two positions have diverging duties: While Priebus will serve as Trump's gatekeeper Bannon will be a blue-sky thinker and all-around Trump Whisperer.
'The chief of staff is generally responsible for the day-to-day operations of the White House,' Priebus said Monday.
'But in regard to advising the president, I think if people understand President Trump, he likes taking opinions from a lot of different people. He's not a person that just listens to one person and does whatever that one person says. He decides.'
'So in advising the president,' he continued, 'I would suspect that me, Steve Bannon I think that Jared Kushner, obviously, his son-in-law's going to be very involved in decision-making. So that's the kind of president Donald Trump's going to be.'
Kushner, along with Ivanka and her brothers Donald Jr. and Eric, are already members of the presidential transition advisory team.
Kushner (left) married Ivanka Trump (right) in 2009. The pair are pictured leaving their New York City apartment on Monday morning
Kushner, shown with then-campaign CEO Steve Bannon during a September rally in Canton, Ohio, help set up Trump's digital operation and wrote speeches for him
Kushner (2nd from right) is an integral cog in the Trump family, although he runs his own separate real estate development firm
The 35-year-old real estate developer, publisher and investor accompanied the president-elect to Washington on Thursday when he met with President Obama and congressional leaders.
He was seen walking on the White House grounds with current chief of staff Denis McDonough while Obama and Trump met in the Oval office.
Kushner's roots in the Trump presidential campaign ran deep.
He set up the campaign's digital operations and wrote at least two policy speeches along the way.
He also advised the future president on Israel policy. Kushner was raised in the Orthodox Jewish faith; Ivanka Trump converted when they married.
Kushner walked the White House grounds with current Chief of Staff Denis McDonough last Thursday while President Obama and President-Elect Trump met in the Oval Office
A Trump transition spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment about Kushner's formal or informal role in the coming administration.
Priebus told a Fox News Channel audience on Monday that his own slot in the West Wing is 'an operations role and it's an advisory role. Running the White House, everything from protocol to the daily routine to communications, policy, the presidents agenda and Congress.'
A California doctor wanted by authorities for allegedly defrauding the states Medi-Cal health insurance program out of millions of dollars faked his own death and used forged passports to evade justice for over a decade, according to law enforcement officials.
Tigran Svadjian, an Armenian immigrant who completed his medical studies in New York before opening up a clinic in Southern California, fled to Russia in 2002 after prosecutors thought they had successfully persuaded him to cooperate in their investigation of him and dozens of other alleged co-conspirators.
Svadjian and other doctors who were believed to have had ties with Russian and Armenian organized crime figures were under investigation for allegedly overbilling the state of California for medical tests, the Los Angeles Times reported.
Federal agents in California were faxed this death notice from the lawyer of Tigran Svadjian, a doctor from Newport Beach who was suspected of defrauding the state's health insurance program
When federal agents confronted Svadjian in 2002 with evidence that he had been involved in the scheme, the doctor was given a choice either face charges that carried a penalty of 10 years in prison, or cooperate with the government by wearing a wire and going undercover in exchange for a reduced sentence.
Svadjian agreed to the offer, but before he could proceed, he told authorities that he needed to fly to Russia to visit his ailing mother.
Authorities were only notified in late October of that year that Svadjian died of pneumonia.
The US embassy in Moscow had filled out a death certificate for Svadjian, whose lawyer had faxed it over to federal agents in Sacramento.
Officials say Svadjian paid $200 for a death notice from a Moscow morgue and then obtained a fake Russian passport and relocated to the Egyptian resort town of Hurghada (above)
Thinking that Svadjian was dead, it took over 10 years before prosecutors sought to dismiss charges against him. His assets were then handed over to creditors, and his wife and two children moved on with their lives.
Officials, however, would be in for a shock, as it was learned that while in Russia, Svadjian paid $200 in order to obtain a fake death certificate from a Moscow morgue.
He then got hold of a forged Russian passport with the name Vasily Petrosov. Soon afterward, he relocated to Egypt, where his father was a citizen.
Svadjian then took up residence in Hurghada, a Red Sea resort town that had transformed into a tourist hotspot.
There he was earning a living as a part-time scuba instructor.
Svadjian was traveling to Russia through Ukraine, last year when authorities in Kiev (above) noticed he had a fake Lithuanian passport. He was then arrested upon his return to Egypt
Eventually, he met and fell in love with a Russian woman from the Black Sea coastal town of Sochi.
Things were moving along swimmingly for the couple, who welcomed their first child.
In late 2015, his girlfriend was pregnant once again, though this time complications would arise.
Since she would need a Cesarean section, the couple decided that she would be better off receiving treatment back in Russia.
Svadjian and his girlfriend agreed that she would return to Russia and wait for him there.
The only problem was that Svadjian did not have a passport. His fake Russian passport was confiscated after he tried to renew it years before.
So he had obtained another fake passport this one Lithuanian from a friend in Egypt.
Svadjian, the US national, became Petrosov the Russian. He was now Viktoras Cajevkis of Lithuania.
Cajevkis boarded a flight from Egypt to Ukraine, which was supposed to be a stopover en route to Russia.
Officials in Kiev, however, noticed that he was traveling on a fake passport and repatriated him to Egypt, where authorities were waiting to arrest him.
Local police searched his apartment and found the fake Russian passport as well as an invalidated American passport that contained his real name.
Soon after, police notified US officials from the American embassy in Cairo that they held a suspect who could be of interest.
The officials, among them an FBI agent and other diplomatic investigators, interviewed Svadjian in Hurghada.
It was there that Svadjian revealed his true identity and told of how he had faked his own death.
Svadjian was extradited to the US and is currently in a jail cell in Los Angeles awaiting trial.
Authorities who had thrown out the evidence against him in the original indictment will now seek to charge him with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
Ron Gomes, 33, was jailed for ten years
A stalker who plotted to kidnap a woman he met on Twitter then 'chain and cage' her as his sex slave has been jailed for ten years.
Robin Gomes, 33, broke into the woman's house in Powys, Mid Wales, after developing 'sadistic fantasies' about her after they met on Twitter and struck up an online relationship.
Cardiff Crown Court heard she confronted him with a hunting rifle, which went off as Gomes wrestled it from her hands just moments before police burst through the door.
The court heard they had previously met up in person for a night together but the woman, 31, told Gomes she didn't want a romance.
Gomes then developed his plan to kidnap, enslave and rape the woman.
Prosecutor Phillip Warren said: 'He claimed he was her master and she his slave. He says he finds sexual gratification in the suffering of others.
'He said she was an object to him, something to be trained and used properly, and she wasn't allowed to object to them having sex.'
Mr Warren said initially their relationship 'flourished' after meeting online and they agreed to meet up in Bristol.
She described Gomes as 'attentive and complimentary' and they spent the night at a hotel together.
But the next morning she made it clear to him she didn't see their relationship going any further.
Gomes then began bombarding her with abusive messages accusing her of sleeping with other men.
He eventually used the internet to track down where she lived, and began turning up at her countryside home to tell her he 'loved' her.
Police were called and gave him a harassment warning, and he was arrested later that day when he tried to return again.
The court heard Gomes continued to send the woman offensive messages despite being charged with stalking.
In one he wrote: 'I'm going to f*** you so hard that I scar you.'
At Cardiff Crown Court (pictured), Gomes was given a 10-year extended jail sentence, to serve seven-and-a-half years before he can apply for release
Prosecutor Mr Warren said: 'He broke into her home with the intent of committing a sexual offence.
'He hired a car, tracked her down, and the suggestion is that there was a degree of reconnaissance beforehand, indicating significant planning.'
Mr Warren said Gomes banged on the door, which caused the woman to get a hunting rifle from her gun cabinet, dial 999 and barricade herself in her bedroom.
The court heard Gomes broke through her door and shouted: 'Where are you, you little b****?'
When he reached the landing she tried to fire the gun at him, but it failed to go off as she had left the safety catch on, allowing him to lunge at her and take the weapon.
You wanted to chain and cage her. You admitted you would have raped her if necessary
Gomes pushed her into her bedroom and onto her bed, before the gun fired through a pillar in the room.
He told her she 'needed to be taught a lesson' just as officers burst into the home and arrested Gomes while the woman was left 'crying uncontrollably.'
Gomes later admitted being a 'sexual sadist' who 'found sexual gratification in the suffering of a partner', and had come to the woman's home to 'stop her misbehaving.'
In a statement read out in court the woman said she had been left feeling like a 'zombie', and now receives psychiatric treatment for anxiety.
She said: 'I lost about a stone in weight in the week after the attack. I've struggled to eat and to sleep.
'I have nightmares and check my house to make sure that he's not there.'
Gomes, of Caversham, Reading, Berkshire, admitted stalking and intent to commit a sexual act.
Trudi Yeatman, defending, said Gomes suffers from both personality and delusional disorders but had 'improved' his behaviour since the attack in July 2014.
Judge Michael Fitton told Gomes he was 'manipulative and devious' and had never showed any remorse.
Judge Fitton said: 'You've said this woman was your 'c*** bucket', nothing more than a hole to have sex with.
'You wanted to chain and cage her. You admitted you would have raped her if necessary.
'Yours was a planned offence with sadistic excitement of inflicting fear into your victim.
'You are dangerous in that you represent a risk of serious harm to the public in the future.'
He gave Gomes a 10-year extended jail sentence, stating he would serve seven-and-a-half years before he could apply for release.
A 46-year-old woman from Washington state was helping a little girl after a suspected DUI crash when another vehicle struck and killed her over the weekend.
Trina Morgan, of Darrignton, was driving along Highway 530 west of Arlington at around 5.20pm Saturday when she came across a disabled vehicle that struck a guardrail.
Morgan pulled over and went to check on the occupants of the vehicle, discovering a 9-year-old girl in the backseat. The driver of the Hyundai appeared to be intoxicated.
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Good Samaritan killed: Trina Morgan, 46 (left and right), was killed Saturday in Washington stater while rescuing a child from a wrecked car after a suspected DUI accident
A Hyundai operated by a suspected drunken driver, and carrying a nine-year-old girl, struck this guardrail on Highway 530
Morgan was driving along the highway when she saw the wreck and went to help, removing the child from the disabled vehicle
Morgan helped the girl out of the vehicle, and the two were walking along the road when another car struck them both from behind.
The nine-year-old sustained a minor injury to her ankle, but Morgan was pronounced dead at the scene.
Officials with the Washington State Patrol say the driver who ran over Morgan and the girl likely will not face any charges in connection to the deadly collision.
The station KING5 reported that the 37-year-old driver of the Hyundai has been charged with a DUI and released. His relationship with the nine-year-old girl is unknown at this time.
Gayle Thompson, Morgan's mother, told KIRO7 she bears no ill will towards the driver who took her daughter's life.
Morgan and the girl were walking along this road when another car struck them from behind, killing the woman and slightly injuring the girl
Mother's grief: Gayle Thompson, Trina Morgan's mother, says she does not bear ill will towards the driver who killed her daughter
'She was doing what any mom would do,' Thompson said. 'It's a child. There's a car. There's an accident. Is there something I can do to help? And that is what she did. She went and helped them. And in that brief second of a moment, she lost her life.'
Morgan's friend and neighbor Sherrie Baker sounded a similar note, telling her station KOMO News she was not surprised that the 46-year-old woman was killed trying to help a child.
After The Simpsons predicted Donald Trump would become president of the U.S. back in 2000, the latest episode seemed to express their regret in being right.
In the opening credits of Sunday night's episode - the first to air since Trump's victory - Bart Simpson scowls as he writes 'being right sucks' on a chalkboard.
The Simpsons confirmed the opening credits, which change every episode, was in fact in reference to the 'Bart to the Future' episode which aired 16 years ago.
'The Simpsons updates its 2000 prediction of a Trump Presidency... #TheSimpsons,' the show tweeted.
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The Simpsons updates its 2000 prediction of a Trump Presidency... #TheSimpsons pic.twitter.com/Myf5rYb9Dj The Simpsons (@TheSimpsons) November 14, 2016
After The Simpsons predicted Donald Trump would become president of the U.S. back in 2000, the latest episode seemed to express their regret in being right. Bart Simpson is shown scowling as he writes 'being right sucks' on a chalkboard during Sunday night's episode
The first Trump reference appeared in the Bart to the Future episode, which aired on March 16, 2000, and he was later referenced in another clip called Trumptastic Voyage.
The iconic cartoon's creator, Matt Groening, said: 'Trump was of course the most absurd placeholder joke name that we could think of at the time, and thats still true. Its beyond satire.'
Dan Greaney, a writer for the Simpsons, also told The Hollywood Reporter that the clip had a dark message behind it.
He said: 'It was a warning to America. That just seemed like the logical last stop before hitting bottom.
'It was pitched because it was consistent with the vision of America going insane.
The Simpsons predicted Donald would become US President 16 years ago in an episode called Bart To The Future in March 2000
In Bart To The Future Lisa Simpson says: 'Weve inherited quite a budget crunch from President Trump. How bad does it get?'
The cartoon foretold a Trump presidency in a surreal episode where Bart is given a window into the future - and found a country brought to its knees by financial mismanagement and a crime wave ushered in by Trump.
The episode's alternate universe reveals that Trump, who will be 84 in 2030, left the country in an impossible amount of debt, and reliant on foreign aid from Europe and China.
In the episode's vision of the future, America is also at the mercy of an army of genetically-enhanced thugs, brought about by Trump programs designed to help the nation's youth which dramatically backfired.
The only person who can save the shattered United States is none other than the newly-elected President Lisa Simpson.
The cartoon foretold a Trump presidency in a surreal episode where Bart is given a window into the future - and found a country brought to its knees by financial mismanagement and a crime wave ushered in by Trump
Lisa's staff, including a grown-up Milhouse, let her know in graph form that her country is broke due to her predecessor
Despite her lofty ambitions to 'refill the oceans' and build the world's biggest book-mobile, her biggest task becomes rescuing the nation from its crippling debt.
In the first clip, Lisa sits in the White House as she says: 'Weve inherited quite a budget crunch from President Trump. How bad does it get?'
Her staff let her know in graph form that her country is broke due to her predecessor.
Lisa is later forced to announce an enormous tax hike in an attempt to right Trump's wrongs, which kills her approval ratings.
It also does nothing to placate the nation's creditors.
But the nation is eventually saved by Bart, a failed musician in the future vision, who uses his well-practiced ability dodging debt repayments to win the U.S. a reprieve.
In August, The Simpsons released a two-minute clip parodying the famous '3am call' video released during Clinton's 2008 run for president.
The iconic cartoon's creator, Matt Groening, said: 'Trump was of course the most absurd placeholder joke name that we could think of at the time, and thats still true. Its beyond satire'
The Simpsons video shows both Clinton and Trump reacting to emergency calls while mocking everything from Trump's appearance to his quick temper and Twitter antics.
The video is based on a 2008 campaign ad for Clinton that asked: 'It's 3am and your children are safe and asleep.
Not long after Trump's controversial campaign launch, The Simpsons published a short video in July featuring Homer and Trump in close quarters.
In the video Homer was slipped $50 by a campaign official to cheer on Trump at the launch, riffing on real-life allegations that Trump had paid for support.
However, overexcited fans shunted him right behind Trump as he made his way down an escalator - prompting Homer to get sucked inside his much-commented-upon hairdo, where he found other lost souls including Amelia Earhart.
As soon as he was expelled from Trump's hair-vortex, Homer was collared by security guards and dumped back in Springfield.
A video on social media has also recounted the similarities between a real-life Trump moment and a scene from the cartoon showing them both giving a thumbs up as they get on an escalator.
The Simpsons released a clip in July poking fun of Donald Trump and showed him and Homer Simpson in close quarters
The video also shows the Trump cartoon character on Simpsons waving to a crowd as the real-life Trump also waves to the crowd while going down an escalator
A video on social media has recounted the similarities between a real-life Trump moment, right, and a scene from the cartoon, left, showing them both giving a thumbs up
Trump's triumph over Hillary Clinton will end eight years of Democratic dominance of the White House.
The Republican blasted through Democrats' longstanding firewall during last week's election, carrying Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, states that had not voted for a GOP presidential candidate since the 1980s.
He needed to win nearly all of the competitive battleground states, and he did just that, claiming Florida, Ohio, North Carolina and others.
Boris Johnson, pictured in Brussels today, was branded 'shameless' after he argued Turkeys application to join the EU should not be cancelled despite its threat to bring back the death penalty
Boris Johnson was today accused of shamelessness after he argued Turkeys application to join the EU should not be cancelled despite its threat to bring back the death penalty.
During the Brexit referendum campaign, the Foreign Secretary repeatedly warned about the dangers of allowing the predominantly Muslim nation to join the bloc.
But today he urged fellow EU foreign ministers at a meeting in Brussels not to overreact to its capital punishment plan by ripping up its membership bid.
Arriving for the meeting, Mr Johnson said: Obviously Turkey remains a matter of some concern and its very very important that we should not push Turkey into a corner.
We should not overreact in a way that I think is against our collective interest to whats going on in Turkey.
Mr Johnson argued that EU countries including Britain had kept the death penalty on their statue books until the 1980s and 1990s.
But the EUs foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini firmly reminded him that capital punishment is not allowed under its accession rules.
An EU diplomat tonight said Mr Johnson was shameless for defending Turkey after making its membership application an argument against Britain remaining in the bloc just months ago.
Austria has led calls to suspend Turkeys EU membership bid because of its crackdown on alleged supporters of a failed military coup in July.
Today Boris Johnson, pictured with his Belgian counterpart Dider Reynders in Brussels, urged fellow EU foreign ministers at a meeting in Brussels not to overreact to its capital punishment plan by ripping up its membership bid
Arriving for the meeting, Mr Johnson, pictured speaking to Finnish foreign minister Timo Soini, said: Obviously Turkey remains a matter of some concern and its very very important that we should not push Turkey into a corner'
Its foreign minister Sebastian Kurz said: I am not for the continuation of entry negotiations and I believe that this Turkey does not have a place in the European Union.
An EU official said leaders would review the situation in Turkey at a summit next month, but added: It would have to be a majority vote to stop the talks and it's clear there is no majority at this stage.
In September, on his first visit to Turkey since becoming Foreign Secretary, Mr Johnson said Britain would help Turkey in any way become a member of the EU now it is leaving.
During the campaign he called for David Cameron to give a guarantee he would veto Turkeys accession because of concerns it would lead to a flood of migrants into the country.
Turkey began accession talks in 2005 but progress has been slow due to disagreements including over its human rights record.
Britain abolished the death penalty for murder in 1965, but rare crimes such as high treason and piracy involving attempted murder remained theoretically punishable by death until 1998.
A Foreign Office source said: The Foreign Secretary was in no way defending [Turkish president Recep Tayyip] Erdogan but simply stating the facts.
News / National
by Staff reporter
Zimbabwe People First leader Dr Joice Mujuru was not in the first group of 74 female recruits who joined the liberation struggle in 1974 and only received basic military training for three weeks under the "Chimbi-Chimbi" programme, a commander who trained the first group of Zanla female freedom fighters, Francis Komboni Gondo, has said.Instead, Dr Mujuru, Gondo said, only received basic training from one of 12 instructors picked from the first 72 female recruits. Gondo, whose Chimurenga name was Elias Hondo said Dr Mujuru was not part of the first group of 74 female recruits who joined the liberation struggle in 1974, with 72 of them eventually going for military training at Nachingweya Camp in Tanzania."This Chimbi-Chimbi was meant to just introduce these comrades to some of the basic war tactics. The only female comrades who received proper training are these 72 who trained at Nachingweya. They were trained for four-and-a-half months. Ndivo vakadzi vakanyatsobikwa. From then on, most female comrades received short training. Just to know the basics."When these female instructors finished training, other female comrades like Joice Mujuru, were later taken to Chifombo, then to Mozambique. Their role was to train other women," said Hondo.This is contrary to claims by Dr Mujuru who has been presenting herself as a veteran of the liberation struggle and a sharp-shooter who gunned down a helicopter during one of the battles at the war front. In an interview published by our sister paper, The Sunday Mail under the column, Chronicles from the Second Chimurenga, Gondo said some of the first female freedom fighters later trained Dr Mujuru under the "Chimbi-Chimbi" programme."I had been appointed as Zanu representative in Botswana. The representative who was there Dick Chikara, was moving to London. When I got to Lusaka, while waiting for Richard Hove to change my passport from the Tanzanian passport to obtain a Zambian passport, the first group of women recruits arrived in Lusaka. That was 1974," said Gondo.He said the commanders agreed that they could not just handover the female recruits to anyone fearing they could be abused. The women, he said, were put under his leadership and Joseph Khumalo (Mazhamba) with instructions to take them to a Frelimo camp in Tanzania called Nachingweya where the late Samora Machel used to stay.Gondo explained that before training, women recruits were examined first to check whether they were not pregnant."This was the first female group to go for military training. And this was the only group of female comrades that received proper military training. If you check, these female comrades up to this day havadadi. It's because of the training they received which others later failed to receive."He said he took the group through political orientation while other instructors taught them the drills and other such exercises."During examination, one of the females named Tichahwina was found pregnant and it emerged that Rex Nhongo (the late Mujuru) had made her pregnant. They had met in 1973. Tichahwina was sent back to Lusaka and was accompanied by Gwitira. We were left with 73 female comrades. After a few weeks, another female comrade, Concilea developed heart problems and was taken back to Lusaka. We were left with 72 female comrades."The women excelled in their drills and behaved like their male counterparts that they even made a strong impression on Machel. They stayed at Nachingweya for four and half months, he said.Hondo explained the rules against promiscuity: "We actually said 'usaite cheupombwe.' But people indulged anyway. It was not allowed but this happened. There was a system in some instances where some commanders would just say to some of the female comrades, 'Iwe huya kuno. Watova wangu.'"He said he had proposed love to one of the female comrades but the proposal was turned down because she was already involved with someone at the war front."Some commanders abused their positions but this was later as the war unfolded, especially at the war front. Many commanders later did this. Anoti haana kuita, those are blue lies," said Gondo.The female recruits, he said, were trained mainly by Frelimo instructors. Their training was the same with what their male counterparts went through."Vaiti kana vofora vachiimba ivo vana Suzan Rutanhire ava, iweka iwe. Even the politics that we taught them was the same that male comrades were going through at Mgagao. This was the first group of female comrades to go for military training under Zanu. On their passout parade, chairman Chitepo came together with Tongogara. I remember Samora Machel speaking highly about me and Khumalo."After the passout parade, Tongo instructed him to identify 12 female comrades who would become instructors and members of the General Staff. He said he first picked on the female comrade whom he had proposed love to.Some members of the 12 included Andy Garikai, Suzan Rutanhire, Revai, Vimbai ( who was later killed during Badza's time), Apronica Chinyandura, Loveness Chidhakwa and Cathrine Garanewako."These 12 instructors are the ones who later trained other female comrades who included Joice Mujuru. Joice and these other female comrades received training for three weeks only. We used to call it Chimbi-Chimbi. People like Rugare Gumbo, Henry Hamadziripi, Kumbirai Kangai, Richard Hove and other went through this Chimbi-Chimbi training but the male comrades received training for male instructors. This camp was 25 miles out of Lusaka."
A West Virginia mayor and local executive are facing mounting pressure to resign over a racist post about Michelle Obama.
'It will be refreshing to have a classy, beautiful, dignified First Lady in the White House. I'm tired of seeing a Ape in heels,' wrote Clay County Development Corporation director Pamela Ramsey Taylor shortly after Donald Trump was elected as president.
Clay Mayor Beverly Whaling responded: 'Just made my day Pam.'
Clay County Development Corporation director Pamela Ramsey Taylor and Clay Mayor Beverly Whaling are facing mounting pressure to resign over a racist post about Michelle Obama.
'It will be refreshing to have a classy, beautiful, dignified First Lady in the White House. I'm tired of seeing a Ape in heels,' wrote Taylor
Clay Mayor Beverly Whaling responded: 'Just made my day Pam'
Video courtesy of WSAZ 3
The post was deleted but not before it was shared hundreds of times on social media. Taylor has also suspended her Facebook account.
The two women have since apologized for their remarks.
'My comment was not intended to be racist at all,' Whaling said in a statement to The Washington Post.
'I was referring to my day being made for change in the White House! I am truly sorry for any hard feeling this may have caused! Those who know me know that I'm not of any way racist!
'Again, I would like to apologize for this getting out of hand!'
Pamela Ramsey Taylor also said sorry on her Facebook account, which she has set to private.
Earlier, their comments sparked a huge furor in the small county with many branding the post 'racist' and 'vile' and demanding that both officials stand down.
A petition calling for Whaling and Taylor to be fired from their positions has already reached more than 14,000 signatures.
Tinna-Jamie Conner, addressing the two officials, said in a Facebook post: 'Here's a news flash for you deplorable classless beings. OUR First Lady, Michelle Obama personifies and exudes beauty, grace, class, intelligence, humility, strength, patience, passion and HOPE.
It has sparked furor in the small county with many branding the post 'racist' and 'vile' and demanding that both officials stand down
'Neither of you idiots could hold a candle to her on your hottest day. Say what you will, but your hate and racism is ugly.'
Dianne Degen Joyce added that Taylor's comments was not only 'vile' but incorrect.
Others agreed: 'That goes without saying. Michelle Obama is the epitome of class, grace and style,' Celeste DuMas Reinhard said.
Some Facebook users pointed out that president-elect Trump's wife Melania had previously stripped off for modelling jobs, while Michelle Obama had been involved in politics.
Others simply demanded Taylor and Whaling be fired.
Robin Brown said: 'Women can and SHOULD make them lose those jobs. They should be publicly humiliated.'
Both women involved have apologized publicly on Facebook.
Taylor described Michelle Obama (left) as an 'ape' and said she was looking forward to having a 'classy, dignified' First Lady in Melania Trump (right)
Whaling issued a statement to Eyewitness News about the incident.
'I would like to apologize for any unintentional harm caused by my comment,' Whaling's statement said.
'My comment was not intended to be racist at all. I was referring to my day being made for the change in the White House! I am truly sorry for any hard feeling this may have caused! Those who know me, know that I am not in any way racist! Again, I would like to apologize for this getting out of hand!'
DailyMail.com's calls to the Clay County Development Corp. and Clay Town Council went unanswered.
Drug addict and satanist Stefano Brizzi kept his aviator sunglasses on during his interview with police.
His trial heard the Italian 'cannibal' answered the door to his stinking flat in south London in just a pair of sunglasses and some pink pants.
Newly-released footage taken after his arrest shows Brizzi sitting nonchalantly speaking to police, his eyes hidden by the glasses.
Newly-released footage shows Stefano Brizzi wearing sunglasses in his police interview
He is asked what he did between the time PC Gordon Semple went missing and when his flat was raided. Nodding, he replies simply: 'Erm, no comment.'
The footage was released after Brizzi was convicted of murder by a majority verdict today following a trial at the Old Bailey.
Brizzi's gruesome plot to dispose of PC Semple's body was uncovered thanks to CCTV gathered from around the capital.
Jurors were shown footage of him shopping for tools including a giant bucket to plunge and dissolve his body parts in acid.
Other parts were roasted, boiled and perhaps even eaten before police were alerted to the foul stench from his London flat.
Brizzi had placed a leg in a roasting tin in the oven, and traces of PC Semple's DNA were also found on a set of chopsticks.
A bone believed to belong to the PC was found with a suspected bite mark in a kitchen bin.
The killer was obsessed with TV series Breaking Bad, which inspired his murder plot
Chilling: CCTV footage shows Stefano Brizzi shopping for a bin to dissolve the body of PC Gordon Semple
DNA from the alleged victim was found on the blade of a blender, cooking pot, chopping board and grease in the oven of the Italian's kitchen, the Old Bailey heard.
PC Semple, 59, was on duty when he arranged to meet Brizzi, via Grindr, for 'hot, dirty' sex on the afternoon of April 1.
Following the alleged murder, neighbours on the Peabody Estate in south London noticed a 'revolting smell' coming from Brizzi's flat.
On April 7, Brizzi was described by his neighbour Martin Harris as being 'cool as a cucumber' when he stopped by to inform him police had been called 'because of the stench', the court heard.
When police were called, Brizzi answered his door in nothing but a pair of pink underpants and aviator sunglasses and told officers: 'I've tried to dissolve the body - I've killed a police officer.'
Two officers arrived to find bottles of chemicals scattered in the hall and 'blue-green liquid' in the bath with 'flesh-coloured globules floating in the water', his trial heard.
One of the officers looked inside a bin liner on the floor and saw a human hand, the court heard.
CCTV: PC Semple at Blackfriars Station on his way to Brizzi's Southwark flat for sex
The defendant said he had HIV and had been told by Satan to 'kill, kill, kill', the prosecutor said.
Talking to the officers at his flat, Brizzi said: 'I was talking online about Satan as a fetish - and crystal meth takes me to Satan.
'I am from a Catholic family so when I found I was gay, I found out I was from Satan. I loved crystal meth and wanted to meet someone who talked about Satan.'
Brizzi later allegedly claimed he had disposed of some body parts he had been unable to break up by taking them on his bicycle to a quiet spot by the River Thames.
A human foot was later discovered by the Thames riverbank at Bermondsey Wall and body matter recovered from drainpipes in Brizzi's block.
Michael has also been charged with assault and battery against his wife
A Kansas woman who pleaded guilty to murdering her seven-year-old stepson last year has been sentenced to life in prison.
Heather Jones, 30, pleaded guilty last month to first-degree murder in the death of Adrian Jones, whose remains were found in the family home in Kansas City last November.
Jones was sentenced to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole in 25 years. She was also sentenced to an additional five years and eight months after pleading guilty to two counts of child abuse.
The boys remains were discovered while police were responding to a domestic disturbance at the family's home.
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Heather Jones (left), 30, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and two counts of child abuse. Her husband, Michael A. Jones, 44, is scheduled to stand trial in February
Wyandotte County District Attorney Jerome Gorman has declined to address media reports that the boy had been fed to the pigs, but he said the crime scene was "one of the worst things" investigators had ever seen.
The boy's father, Michael Jones, has pleaded not guilty to premeditated first-degree murder and other charges in the death of the boy, who was his biological son from another relationship.
He is due to stand trial in February.
Michael Jones, 44, and Heather Jones, 30, were arrested after police were notified Adrian was missing and then found human remains in a barn on the property, according to Gorman.
They were arrested after police were notified Adrian was missing and then found human remains in a barn on the property
Dead mice, cages full of rats, syringes, rat poison and pornographic videos are just some of the things that were found inside the home where the couple lived with the boy and six girls.
Property owner Jennifer Hoevers, who rented the home to Michael and Heather, said she was shocked and disgusted when she went inside the property for the first time since theyd been jailed.
It took my breath away, she told FOX 4.
Fast food wrappers everywhere. Theres milk, rotting food everywhere.
Hoevers said Michael and Heather Jones were polite and respectful and showed interest in eventually buying the rural Kansas City home when they began renting over two years ago.
But now the $500,000 residence that Hoevers and her husband, who is currently deployed, put their entire life savings into has been trashed.
We had a lot of hopes and dreams for it, she said. We wanted someone else to enjoy it. We saw that they had kids.
Having little kids myself, I dont know how anybody could allow their kids to live like this.
Michael has also been charged with aggravated battery and aggravated assault with a firearm against Heather.
Police responded to a domestic violence call to the home on November 25 after Jones allegedly shot his wife.
Heather Jones' father, Jeff Coon, said his daughter called him on Thanksgiving and told him Michael had killed the little boy and it would be 'all over the news'.
'He fed him to the pigs, is all she said,' he told the Kansas City Star. 'She just told me it was going to be all over the news, and thats the last time we talked.'
Coon only learned days later that his daughter had been telling the truth.
'I dont know if I didnt want to believe her,' he said. 'She was just calm, just like were talking now. Thats why I never gave it another thought.'
Because of his estrangement with his daughter, Coon had not seen Adrian for two years.
'I just dont understand what that little boy had done to get what he got. Theres no reason for it,' he said of the young boy's death.
There were six girls living in the Jones home at the time.
They ranged in age from younger than two to ten-years-old and have since been placed in protective custody.
The babysitters for the family claimed that multiple people contacted the Kansas Department For Children and Families with concerns about the children and their living conditions.
Michael Williams, Heather Jones' brother, alleged that Michael had abused his wife and the children in the home for years.
'There are bullet holes in the walls of that house,' he told NBC News. 'So I'm sure you can understand what terror may have been going through that household daily.'
Tributes also poured in from Speaker Paul Ryan and scores of fellow broadcasters
Gwen Ifill, the respected PBS news anchor, has died at the age of 61 after losing a battle with cancer.
Ifill, who was best known as the NewsHour co-anchor and managing editor of PBS talk show Washington Week, passed away surrounded by her family in a Washington hospice on Monday.
The respected newscaster had moderated two vice-presidential debates, between John Edwards and Dick Cheney in 2004; and between Sarah Palin and Joe Biden in 2008.
Earlier this month PBS announced she would be taking time off for health reasons but had kept her battle with cancer private.
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Long-time journalist and newscaster Gwen Ifill died aged 61 on Monday after losing her battle with cancer
Ifill was best known as PBS's NewsHour co-anchor, pictured interviewing President Obama who paid tribute to her today
'I am very sad to tell you that our dear friend and beloved colleague Gwen Ifill passed away today,' WETA TV President and CEO Sharon Percy Rockefeller wrote in a staff-wide email obtained by Politico.
'I spent an hour with her this morning and she was resting comfortably, surrounded by loving family and friends... Earlier today, I conveyed to Gwen the devoted love and affection of all of us at WETA/NewsHour. Let us hold Gwen and her family even closer now in our hearts and prayers.'
President Barack Obama described Ifill as a friend, a 'powerful role model' and an 'extraordinary' journalist with 'integrity', in a touching tribute speech.
She and her NewsHour co-host, Judy Woodruff (L) pictured at the Women's Media Awards on November 5, 2015, where Ifill accepted a Lifetime Achievement award
The respected newscaster had moderated two vice-presidential debates, between John Edwards and Dick Cheney in 2004; and between Sarah Palin and Joe Biden in 2008 (pictured)
PBS journalist Gwen Ifill was the moderator during the vice presidential debates in 2008 between Joe Biden and Sarah Palin
'She gave her country a great service,' he said in a speech today at the White House.
Ifill never married not had any children. When asked about in 2008, she still seemed hopeful.
'I don't know why I'm not married,' she told TIME. 'I just know I will be, so I don't sweat it.'
Sadly she never got the chance to fulfill that wish. She died on Monday - just two days before she was scheduled to receive a prestigious award, the John Chancellor Award, at a Columbia University ceremony, reports.
She was born to immigrant parents, her father Urcille Ifill, a Barbadian who immigrated from Panama, and her mother, Eleanor, immigrated from Barbados. Ifill also had five siblings, all older.
OBAMA'S TOUCHING TRIBUTE TO GWEN On a personal note, Michelle and I want to offer our deepest condolences to Gwen Ifill's family and all of you, her colleagues, on her passing. Gwen was friend of ours. She was an extraordinary journalist. She always kept faith with the fundamental responsibilities of her profession; asking tough questions, holding people in power accountable and defending a strong and free press that makes our democracy work. I always appreciated her reporting even when I was at the receiving end of one of her tough and thorough interviews. Whether she reported from a convention floor or from the field, whether she sat at the debate moderator's table or at the anchor's desk, she not only informed today's citizens but she always inspired tomorrow's journalists. She was an especially powerful role model for young women and girls who admired her integrity, her tenacity and her intellect. And for whom she blazed a trail as one half of the first female anchor team on network news. Gwen did her country a great service. Michelle and I join her family and her colleagues and everyone else who loved her in remember her fondly today. Advertisement
The broadcaster was diagnosed with cancer sometime between late 2015 and early 2016, according to her close friend Michele Norris.
She shared the news with family and friends but decided she wanted to keep her diagnosis private.
In April, PBS announced she was taking a two month leave of absence for 'ongoing health issues.' Norris revealed today that those issues arose due to complications from her treatment.
Yet she was back at work the next month, and within weeks had secured an exclusive interview with Obama.
However, she was forced to take another leave of absence last week where she traveled to a hospice in Washington, Rockerfeller said in the email.
PBS President and CEO Paula Kerger described Ifill as 'one of America's leading lights in journalism.'
In a statement, he said that she was one of the reasons that people felt like they could trust the media.
'Her contributions to thoughtful reporting and civic discourse simply cannot be overstated,' he added.
'She often said that her job was to bring light rather than heat to issues of importance to our society. Gwen did this with grace and a steadfast commitment to excellence.
'Our sorrow at her passing is a part of our profound gratitude for all that she did for our system and our nation. It was an honor to know Gwen and to work with her. All of us at PBS express our sincere condolences to Gwen's friends and family.'
NewsHour's executive producer Sara Just described Ifill as a 'journalist's journalist' who set a high standard for everyone to follow.
Many of her colleagues, fellow broadcasters and politicians have already begun paying tribute to the well respected journalist.
NBC Nightly News' Lester Holt said he was 'very sad' to hear of Ifill's death.
'Gwen represented the best of broadcast journalism,' he said. 'Our hearts are broken.'
Ifill never married but was still close with her family including her cousin Sherrilyn Ifill President & Director-Counsel of LDF (NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund)
She was the youngest of six children, born to her immigrant parents Urcille and Eleanor (pictured with older brother Earle Ifill)
Speaker of the House Paul Ryan tweeted that he was also 'saddened' to hear about Ifill, 'an incredibly talented and respected journalist.'
Pete Williams, of MSNBC, broke down in tears on air as he reported the death of his 'dear friend'.
'Gwen would want me to get this together,' he said as he fought back tears, describing how the talented newspaper reporter got her first job in TV with MSNBC.
'S he was one of the most successful women in journalism. She has so many awards in her office you could barely see out of window,' he joked.
Meet the Press Daily's Chuck Todd said he was 'heartbroken' over the loss.
'She owned every beat she was on, whether at the @nytimes @NBCNews or @NewsHour or anywhere else,' he tweeted.
CNBC reporter John Harwood described the 61-year-old broadcaster as a 'terrific friend and colleague, whip-smart newspaper reporter and skilled broadcaster, holder of best BS detector I ever saw.'
Tamron Hall, Co-Host the TODAY Show, added she was 'heartbroken' to learn that her 'hero' had passed away.
Her Newshour co-host Judy Woodruff has not yet commented on the loss.
Ifill began her career in the late 1970s as a political newspaper reporter at a time when black and female reporters were rare.
Ifill joined PBS in 1999 where she became the moderator of the PBS program Washington Week in Review and co-anchor for PBS NewsHour
Former U.S. President Bill Clinton is interviewed by broadcaster Gwen Ifill during the 2011 Fiscal Summit
Many of her colleagues, fellow broadcasters and politicians have already begun paying tribute to the well respected journalist
Ifill also wrote for some of the country's most esteemed newspapers, including The Washington Post and the New York Times, before transitioning to broadcast journalism in 1994 with MSNBC.
She told the New York Times in 2013, shortly after she and Woodruff were named the first women co-anchors of NewsHour, that she hoped that her breakthrough into journalism and broadcasting would inspire others.
'When I was a little girl watching programs like this I would look up and not see anyone who looked like me in any way. No women. No people of color.
'I'm very keen about the fact that a little girl now, watching the news, they see me and Judy sitting side by side it will occur to them that that's perfectly normal- that it won't seem like any big breakthrough at all.'
Ifill served on the board of the Harvard Institute of Politics and the University of Maryland's Philip Merrill College of Journalism. She was also a board member of the Committee to Protect Journalists and the Museum of Television and Radio.
A federal judge on Monday ordered Making a Murderers Brendan Dassey released from prison.
The Wisconsin man, now 27, was serving a life sentence for the 2005 murder and sexual assault of Teresa Halbach after confessing as a sixteen-year-old.
In August, U.S. Magistrate Judge William Duffin ruled that police tricked the intellectually disabled teenager into describing how he supposedly helped rape, stab, shoot and dismember Halbach on his uncle Steven Averys orders.
And he has now ordered Dassey be released while prosecutors appeal that ruling.
Dassey has until noon Tuesday to provide the address of where he plans to live and his lawyer said he hopes to have him out by Thanksgiving.
But hours after the decision to release Dassey, the Wisconsin Attorney General said he would file an emergency motion to block Dassey's release.
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A federal judge has ordered that Brendan Dassey be released from prison immediately. Dassey is pictured on the left, being led from Wisconsin court on March 3, 2006. He's pictured on the right in his 2006 police interview
Dassey's supposed confession to the murder of Theresa Halbach was one of the most shocking moments of the December 2015 documentary Making a Murderer.
Halbach was killed on Halloween 2005, after she visited the Avery family's salvage yard in Manitowoc County. Investigators allege Avery lured her there by asking her to take photos of a minivan.
Theresa Halbach (pictured) was killed on Halloween 2005, after she visited the Avery family's salvage yard in Manitowoc County. Investigators allege Avery lured her there by asking her to take photos of a minivan
Viewers saw police officers apparently coerce Dassey - the teenager with an IQ of 70 - into confessing to the murder of Halbach along with his uncle Steven Avery.
The documentary also heavily suggested that Avery was framed for the murder by police officers with a grudge.
In freeing Dassey, Magistrate Judge William Duffin held that investigators made specific promises of leniency to Dassey and that no 'fair-minded jurists could disagree.'
He cited one investigator's comment early in the interview that 'you don't have to worry about things,' plus repeated comments like 'it's OK' and that they already knew what happened.
Dassey was memorably shown complaining in the documentary that he would miss Wrestlemania after his confession.
Dassey was sentenced to life in prison in 2007 after his arrest in March 2016. Court documents describe him as a slow learner who had poor grades and has difficulty understanding language and speaking. Avery was convicted in a separate trial and was also sentenced to life in prison. He's pursuing his own appeal.
Dassey will not be allowed to contact his co-defendant and uncle Steven Avery (pictured left in a recent jail picture, and on the right in a 1985 mugshot)
Dassey has been in jail since March 2006. He's pictured above being led to the Manitowoc County Courthouse on April 16, 2007
Dassey's Attorney Steve Drizin, would not say where Dassey plans to live and said he had not spoken yet with Dassey.
'That's what I'm focused on right now, getting him home, getting him with his family and then helping him to re-integrate back into society while his appeal plays out,' Drizin said.
Dassey's brother Brad also issued a statement, saying, according to Channel3000.com: 'My brother is one step closer to the freedom he DESREVES! My heart is pumping beyond belief and I'm extremely ecstatic to hear he'll finally get a taste of freedom until things are completely resolved. Despite what people say, I love and care about my brother, Brendan. I always have and always will.'
Dassey will also be barred from obtaining firearms or controlled substances and has been ordered not to have contact with Halbach's family, or Avery.
Wisconsin Attorney General Brad Schimel said in a statement Monday that he will file that motion with the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. A federal judge ordered Dassey released while prosecutors appeal a ruling that overturned Dassey's conviction in the 2005 slaying of photographer Teresa Halbach.
U.S. Magistrate Judge William Duffin ruled in August that investigators tricked Dassey into confessing he helped Avery with the crime. The state has appealed that ruling.
Avery's lawyer Kathleen Zellner had earlier tweeted that Dassey would be released today, but then deleted it.
A man accused of raping and murdering a 4-year-old girl has been publicly lynched.
The alleged paedophile was arrested in Reyes, northern Bolivia after police found a missing girl's body earlier this week.
Furious locals refused to wait for his trial and took justice into their own hands.
Furious: Harrowing video footage shows the gang forcing the bars of the jail open
A mob stormed the police station and dragged the man into the street where locals hanged him on a tree.
Harrowing video footage shows the gang forcing the bars of the jail open before grabbing the helpless man.
The mob started beating him and dragged him through the streets. The man was hanged just minutes later.
Police officers were outnumbered and failed to stop the public lynching.
Shocking: The man accused of raping and murdering a 4-year-old girl was dragged through the streets
Violent: Locals then grabbed the helpless man and pulled him through the streets to hang him
The 4-year-old victim whose death incensed the community was not a local but was visiting the area with her parents for her grandmother's funeral.
Ivan Zambrana, the department director of the Special Force for Crime Fighting, told local media: 'The dead bodies, both the girl's and the lynching victim's, have been moved to Palos Blancos [near Bolivian capital La Paz], we are investigating the case.'
Nobody has been arrested for the lynching, but the police are currently questioning locals and using social media videos of the incident in tackling the case.
Gruesome: Bystanders took videos on their phones as the man was left dead in the street
Incredible footage has emerged from the front lines of the fight against Islamic State as French forces came to the rescue to destroy a suicide vehicle.
The video, filmed by Riam Dalati near Raqqa, shows a vehicle making quick progress across the desert.
That truck is a Suicide Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device, or SVBIED, and it is seen accelerating at some speed toward the cameraman, while there are shouts in the background.
The vehicle, a Suicide Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device, is heading towards its target, the allied forces
After realising that the missile launched by Kurdish forces has missed the target, French special ops are quickly on the case. The small cloud of smoke is just the beginning
The missile fired by French operatives explodes, taking its target of the car with it in a cloud of smoke
It is being driven by a Islamic State suicide bomber.
To the left of the car, the video shows a white light, a wire-guided missile, being fired from a ATGM launcher.
But the missile launched by Kurdish fighters in the YPG misses its target.
Panicked voices can be heard in the video's background, before French special forces save the day.
Cheers can be heard on the video as the allied forces, made up predominantly here of Kurdish fighters, celebrate
The panic that had arisen when the forces realised their missile had not hit its mark is soon replaced by relief
A small cloud of smoke appears behind the car, which is still powering through the desert towards its own target.
Then the dramatic explosion takes place, close behind the vehicle.
French Special Operations have fired a missile at the suicide truck, saving the day after the first miss.
It could have been a Javelin missile, a US made 'fire and forget' weapon.
Cries and shouts of relief can be heard in the background as one man shouts 'Yes!' when seeing what has happened.
On November 6, the RAF joined the fight for Islamic States de-facto capital Raqqa.
US intelligence sources say the terror groups attacks against Western targets are being plotted from the Syrian city, adding urgency to coalition plans to launch an attack.
Speaking as the operation got under way, Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said the RAF would be involved in a two-pronged attack in Iraq and Syria.
He said: Were supporting Iraqi-led forces defeating Daesh (IS) in Mosul and the RAF will support the Raqqa operation as it develops.
Our strikes are making a difference in Mosul now and our sophisticated surveillance effort is helping give the coalition a vital edge in Syria.
Duran Williams Kajiama was fatally stabbed on Saturday evening
The distraught mother of a 17-year-old stabbed to death on his way to a birthday party has told how battling medics used 40 bags of blood in a bid to save him.
And the man who found him said that people just walked by the teen as he held the youth's hand and tried to keep him talking.
Duran Williams Kajiama was fatally stabbed in an alleyway a short walk from his house on Saturday evening.
As he staggered back to try and get home, he collapsed in the street and was helped by 30-year-old Nathan Hickmott, who battled to comfort him and stop the bleeding while the ambulance came.
Another boy, 16, was also stabbed in the back and neck nearby but survived.
Speaking at the family near the scene in Dagenham, east London, Duran's mother, Beatrice Mushiya, told of the pain and regret of losing her son.
She said: 'I can't believe it. I was not expecting this. I know very little about what happened. I know he was going to a friend's birthday party.
'He left home, and the next thing for me was to get a phone call from the police saying they had taken him to hospital.
'They just said that he had been stabbed and that he was unwell.'
Beatrice rushed to hospital to be at her son's side, but found him in theatre for a number of hours while doctors desperately tried to stop the bleeding.
She said: 'But in hospital, they just couldn't stop the blood. They said they had used 40 bags of blood, but he just kept bleeding.
He was attacked in an alleyway a short walk from his house (the block of flats pictured) on Saturday evening
Floral tributes were left outside for the 17-year-old, who his mother described as a 'polite, respectful' boy
'They couldn't keep the blood in him.'
Beatrice said her son, who had turned 17 just last month, would 'do no harm to anyone'.
She said: 'He was a lovely boy. I'm not just saying that because I'm his mum - he was lovely to everyone.
'He was polite, respectful, he loved his music, gentle. I just can't believe it. It doesn't feel real.
'But I wasn't there to help him. That's where I should have been. But I wasn't. And I will live with that every day for the rest of my life.
'It's awful. I wouldn't wish this on anybody, to go through what I am going through.
'I cannot describe the pain. He was incredible, such a good boy. Never been in prison, no trouble, never done anything to anyone.'
Duran had planned to train as an engineer, Beatrice said, adding that he was currently a student at Palmer's College in Essex.
She said: 'I will stand in front of the local community and talk about this, what can be done to prevent this, what can we do, how can we help our youths.
'What can we teach them, between us, our families, our communities and as a nation.
'We need to do something about this. Knives need to be stopped. It's not the answer. It's not a game. Look at us - this is the result. Ruined families..'
Mr Hickmott had just left his home nearby when he noticed Duran lying on the floor bleeding profusely.
He said: 'A few people were just walking past him. But I stopped and spoke to him, managed to get his name, and he told me how old he was.
'I held his hand and he looked at me. He was squeezing my hand. I looked at him, because I've been stabbed so I know.
'I told him, 'brother. I have been in your position'. I told him to be strong and that I knew what he was going through.
'Only one other man stopped to help - everyone else walked by.
The man who found him said that people just walked by the teen as he held the youth's hand and tried to keep him talking
'When I discovered him, you could see he was still in shock.
'Obviously, I rang the ambulance and they told me what to do, to roll him onto his back, put pressure on his wound, keeping speaking to him.
'Because I was calling the police all night to ask, and they just kept saying he was in theatre and they would update me.'
Mr Hickmott visited Duran's mother on Monday morning because he wanted her 'to know that he wasn't alone'.
He told her: 'I did the best I could. I'm so sorry.
'You could see he was scared. But when he saw there was someone there helping him, he wasn't scared no more.
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Hamburg has spent 3.9 million equipping its anti terror officers with new equipment over fears of jihadi-style attacks.
Officers from the BFE arrest unit displayed their new Haenel assault rifles and heavy-duty ballistic protection helmets and body armour at a special press conference in the city.
The city has also purchased the Survivor 1 armoured personnel carrier for anti-terror police operations.
Hamburg city fathers have spent 3.9 million providing new equipment for their anti-terrorist police officers
Officers have been equipped with new Haenel assault rifles and heavy-duty body armour and helmets for added protection
The officers will be transported in new Survivor 1 vehicles which can cope with chemical or biological attack
The SK4-rated ballistic protection is capable of stopping a round fired from an AK-47 assault rifle.
The Survivor One can deal with chemical, nuclear and biological warfare agents., protecting the officers inside from exposure.
Some 70 officers are to be supplied with the additional body armour and helmets to protect them in the case of an attack.
According to NDR.de, the decision to equip the police with the heavy-duty equipment was due to the ongoing threat posed by ISIS.
In mid July, the city ordered 280 near assault rifles and sub-machine guns for officers.
Earlier this month, German police raided locations in three states and detained nine asylum seekers suspected of being part of an organized Chechen crime ring, MDR television reported.
Police had said earlier that the raids were staged in Dresden, Leipzig, Pirna and Radeberg in the eastern state of Saxony as well as locations in the neighbouring state of Thuringia and the western state of Rhineland-Palatinate.
City authorities decided to provide the new equipment due to the ongoing threat posed by jihadi terrorists such as ISIS
The new helmets and body armour are capable of stopping a bullet fired by a Kalashnikov AK-47 assault rifle
Some of the officers have been equipped with Heckler and Koch MP5 assault rifles as well as body armour and helmets
The police action followed an October 25 operation in which refugee centres and 12 homes in Saxony, Thuringia, Bavaria, Hamburg and North Rhine-Westphalia states were stormed on suspicion that they were housing people involved in financing terrorism.
Police said the suspects arrested this month were predominantly Russian citizens of Chechen origin and involved in organised criminal activities such as bodily harm, blackmail, illegal restraint and harassment.
Last month the ISIS news agency Aamaq claimed 'a soldier of the Islamic State' stabbed two people in Hamburg on October 16.
Two teenagers, a 16-year-old boy and a 15-year-old girl, were sitting on the waterside of a Hamburg lake that day, when a man approached them from behind, stabbed the boy several times with a knife and then pushed the girl into the water.
In July, Hamburg decided to invest in a further 280 assault rifles for their police officers to counter the ongoing terror threat
ISIS has claimed several attacks in Germany since the summer claiming the life of one 16-year-old boy in Hamburg
The ISIS news agency Aamaq has sent a number of threats to Germany claiming their terrorists will target the country
The attacker fled afterward.
The boy was taken to a hospital where he subsequently died. The girl who was pushed into the water wasn't injured, but was taken to a hospital for psychiatric treatment after the attack.
Authorities claimed only one person had been stabbed in the attack.
In July, two attacks carried out in Germany by asylum seekers were claimed by ISIS. Five people were wounded in an axe rampage on a train near Wuerzburg and 15 in a bombing outside a bar in Ansbach. Both of the attackers were killed.
Earlier this month, a 16-year-old German-Moroccan girl went on trial for allegedly stabbing and wounding a police officer in Hannover at the behest of ISIS.
A Syrian migrant who was suspected of planning to carry out a bomb attack killed himself in prison two days after being arrested this month in Leipzig.
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by Staff reporter
The government is negotiating with the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development for $35,7 million for the Zhove irrigation project in Beitbridge.The project will develop infrastructure for intensive citrus production on 2 520 hectares of land and is expected to benefit 5 000 households upon completion, Finance minister Patrick Chinamasa said in a statement on Friday.The project is in line with the government's policy thrust to eradicate poverty, which resulted in the launch of the Interim Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper in September 2016, Chinamasa said.The mission was in the country for two weeks until Saturday on an appraisal mission of the Zhove irrigation project.Chinamasa said the government was also negotiating for technical assistance and an economic feasibility study for the construction of two district hospitals in Harare.
It is a murky underground world that involves digging a lot of dirt and setting traps for the enemy.
But these molecatchers arent the double-dealing spies of John Le Carre novels. Their quarry isnt human, merely the pesky burrowing mammal that digs up lawns and damages plants.
Yet the molecatching business is not immune from cloak-and-dagger rivalry and claims of treachery. It has led to a bitter clash involving two of Britains half-dozen female molecatchers, with accusations of lack of professionalism, shoddy animal welfare and mafia tactics.
Louise Chapman, a molecatcher, admits she has 'shaken up' her profession. She is pictured here with her dog who accompanies her throughout her daily work calls
The feud centres on three organisations that represent or train those employed in the lucrative trade, where each kill can be worth 60.
Ann Chippendale, who founded the Association of Professional Mole Catchers, claims her rival Louise Chapman, head of the British Mole Catchers Register, is an embarrassment to proper professional molecatchers.
Miss Chapman claims her detractor, who used to belong to the Register, is deranged and jealous of her because she is a newcomer.
Meanwhile the Guild of British Mole Catchers is suggesting its rivals fail to check traps every day as they should to prevent unnecessary suffering to moles. It in turn is accused of inventing the title master molecatcher to drum up business.
Details of the squabble surfaced, bizarrely, in one of the most respected US publications, the Wall Street Journal. It said Lancashire-based Miss Chippendale, 55, questioned Miss Chapmans professionalism.
The mole catching industry is regulated by three trade bodies who have all become involved in some form of insult trading in the last few weeks. File photo of a mole
The Registers training was flawed, she claimed, as members were being given inaccurate information on mole breeding. This is believed to refer to Norfolk-based Miss Chapmans belief that female moles bred twice this year instead of the normal once.
Miss Chippendale told the WSJ: Shes taking their money but shes not really doing the work. I am not happy about it and would say things to her face.
Miss Chapman, 48, told the Mail: Ive got no idea why shes doing this. I dont bad-mouth people because Im a professional. Those that do, obviously arent and feel threatened in some way.
Martin Noble who is Secretary of the Guild of British Mole Catchers said he is trying to promote the right way of mole catching
The former teacher, who began training for the job in 2010, said anonymous messages have been left on her phone, including one that said: You keep off my patch. If not, there will be trouble.
She claims rivals dislike her because she is an outsider who has shaken things up by exposing underhand tactics such as taking dead moles to jobs and claiming they were freshly caught.
The divorcee seen this year on Dave TVs Deadliest Pests Down Under tackling crocodiles and snakes suspects someone from the Association reported her to the Advertising Standards Authority, claiming her slogan Norfolks only lady molecatcher was untrue.
Miss Chapman changed it to Norfolks very own lady molecatcher. She dismissed the Guilds animal welfare claims, saying modern traps kill moles instantly.
Guild secretary Martin Noble, 56, also from Norfolk, said: Were trying to promote the right way of mole-catching.
He said it was the first rift among molecatchers for more than a decade.
Two flight attendants have been injured after a plane nearly collided with a suspected done as they approached a Toronto airport.
A Porter Airlines flight was forced to take evasive action when an unidentified object was spotted in its path as it flew into Toronto's Billy Bishop airport at 7.30am on Monday.
The two flight attendants sustained minor injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment. They have since been released.
A Porter Airlines flight was forced to take evasive action when an unidentified object was spotted in its path as it flew into Toronto's Billy Bishop airport at 7.30am on Monday
The Bombardier Q400 turboprop was carrying 54 passengers and four crew members, including the two flight attendants, from Ottawa when the incident unfolded.
The aircraft was flying at an altitude of about 9,000 feet at the time.
The airport is located just off Toronto's downtown core.
Officials from Canada's Transportation Safety Board confirmed an investigation will now take place.
The Bombardier Q400 turboprop was carrying 54 passengers and four crew members as it flew into Toronto's Billy Bishop airport (pictured) on Monday
The say the object involved in the near miss was likely an unmanned aerial vehicle.
Porter spokesman Brad Cicero says the pilots' initial assessment was that it looked like a balloon. After debriefing, they believe it was possibly a drone.
Prince Philip looked in good spirits as he opened the new Design Museum in London today.
The Duke of Edinburgh, 95, spoke with schoolchildren and guests including Sir Terence Conran at the opening of the 83million building in Kensington.
The royal, who has a life-long interest in architecture and engineering, was shown a collection of the most popular everyday objects from around the world.
Lifelong passion: Prince Philip was shown a collection of the most popular consumer goods from around the world. Pictured with Alice Black, Deputy Director of the Design Museum
Committed: The Duke of Edinburgh, 95, pictured today, continues to carry out royal duties
Engaged: The prince speaks with two schoolgirls in uniform at one of the museum displays
Special guest: Prince Philip with Deyan Sudjic, Director of the Design Museum on Monday
They included the London Underground roundel, an egg cup, a pair of yellow washing up gloves and a bike from China.
But it was the inclusion of a red bucket that tickled the duke, who commented on the item as he chatted to guests.
The items were all chosen from suggestions from the public.
Visitors will be able to see the free permanent display of its collection when the museum opens to the public on November 24.
Lively: The Prince meets Sir Terence Conran at the museum opening in west London today
Enthusiastic: The royal, pictured today, has a keen interest in design and architecture
Prince Philip has long been fascinated with the fields of engineering and design.
In a recent interview he revealed the high esteem in which he held those who created the everyday objects around us.
He said: 'The whole of our infrastructure, from sewers to power supplies and communication, everything that wasn't invented by God is invented by an engineer.'
Philip is an enthusiastic supporter of the Royal Academy of Engineering, founded in 1976, and became its senior fellow with the first meeting held at Buckingham Palace.
Unveiling: The Prince with a plaque in his name ahead of the public opening on November 24
President Barack Obama delivered a veiled rebuke to Hillary Clinton today for spending the summer and much of the fall taking it easy as Donald Trump barnstormed the nation.
The two-time winner Electoral College winner said he was victorious in Iowa, a mostly white state, 'not because the demographics dictated' it, but because he spent 87 days going to 'every small town and fair and fish fry and VFW hall.'
Some counties he may have lost by fewer votes because he dropped in, the president said. Others he may have won unexpectedly because he spent so much time there.
'And the challenge for a national party is how do you dig in there and create those kinds of structures so that people have a sense of what it is that you stand for.'
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President Barack Obama delivered a veiled rebuke to Hillary Clinton today for spending the summer and much of the fall on her laurels as Donald Trump barnstormed the nation
That's 'increasingly difficult to do' through a national press strategy, he said.
Conversations in the party about grassroots efforts and building a bottom up party will 'contribute to stronger outcomes in the future,' he assessed. 'And I'm optimistic that will happen.'
Democrats who are 'feeling completely discouraged' by last Tuesday's election, Obama said, should remember that 'things change pretty rapidly.'
'But they don't change inevitably. They change because you work for it,' he said.
Clinton spent considerable time in Iowa as she prepared to competed in the Democratic caucuses there against Bernie Sanders.
She visited Des Moines three times and Cedar Rapids once in the general election. She also made a stop in 'Quad Cities' area, though her rally was technically in Illinois.
Clinton's campaign wrote off the swing state that Obama won in 2008 and 2012 and spent her time trying to win over North Carolina, a state he lost in 2012, and Pennsylvania instead.
Not only did she lose all three of those states, Clinton held one or no rallies a day while Trump conquered the country and lost most of the Midwest, never even visiting Wisconsin which turned red as a result.
'We have to compete everywhere. We have to show up everywhere. We have to work at a grassroots level,' Obama said today.
The president was taking questions for the first time since his former secretary of state lost her electoral battle against Donald Trump this afternoon.
'When your team loses, everybody gets deflated. And it's hard, and it's challenging,' he acknowledged.
But he said, 'I think its a healthy thing for the Democratic Party to go through some reflection.'
His party is looking for a new election chief to manage the Democratic National Committee.
'I think it's important for me not to be big footing that conversation,' Obama said of the intra-party debate. But he also said the party would benefit from 'new voices.'
Minnesota Congressman Keith Ellison, an African-American representative who comes from the progressive wing of the party and is Muslim, put forward his name today.
Ex-DNC chair Howard Dean was the first candidate to formally put himself in the running. Dean ran the party when Obama was elected. Democrats also won the House and the Senate under his oversight.
'How we organize politically, I think is something that we should spend some time thinking about,' he said. 'I believe that we have better ideas. But I also believes that good ideas don't matter if people don't hear them.'
Clinton earned the most voters overall. But she fell behind in the Electoral College count that legally determines the outcome.
Obama suggested during his news conference on Monday afternoon that Clinton didn't excite her supporters the way Trump did as he complimented his successor.
Recalling their conversation in the Oval Office last week, Obama said he told the president elect that he was impressed by Trump's ability to generate enthusiasm.
'I think that to the extent that there were a lot of folks who missed the Trump phenomenon, I think that connection that he was able to make with his supporters,' Obama said, 'that was impervious to events that might have sunk another candidate, that's powerful stuff.'
Obama is leaving the country tonight for a seven-day trip to Greece, Germany and Peru.
He'll speak to White House reporters who travel with him overseas again. 'I figured why wait,' Obama said at the top of his remarks.
'I know that there's a lot of domestic issues that people are thinking about,' Obama said, indicating his desire to 'clear out some of the under bush' so that journalists will stick to foreign policy questions at his upcoming news conferences and 'don't feel obliged to tack on three other questions, too.'
A reporter told him that's likely to happen anyway, leading to laughter in the White House briefing room. Obama said he's 'aware' - and is 'trying out something new.'
The lame duck president is using the week-long excursion to drag his policy agenda over the finish line and convince America's allies that President-elect Trump is unlikely to tear up binding, international agreements.
Obama suggested during his news conference on Monday afternoon that Clinton didn't excite her supporters the way Trump did as he complimented his successor
Obama cast Trump as 'uniquely unqualified' to lead the country on the campaign trail and urged voters not to give him access to the county's nuclear arsenal.
He told the nation on Wednesday that it must give the president-elect a chance.
'We are now all rooting for his success in uniting and leading the country. The peaceful transition of power is one of the hallmarks of our democracy,' he said. 'And over the next few months, we are going to show that to the world.'
The president said his party must learn from its 'mistakes' in this election and 'do some reflection.'
'We lick our wounds, we brush ourselves off, we get back in the arena. We go at it. We try even harder the next time,' he said. 'The point, though, is, is that we all go forward, with a presumption of good faith in our fellow citizens.'
He said Monday that Democrats 'should not waiver' in their 'core beliefs and principles.'
President Putin has welcomed a new relationship with America based on 'equality, mutual respect, and non-interference in each other's internal affairs', following a phone conversation with president-elect Donald Trump.
The incoming president spoke last night with Vladimir Putin, who has challenged U.S. policy on a variety of fronts and whose government U.S. officials have said tried to influence the election in Trump's favor.
The leaders also agreed to a face-to-face meeting, marking a thaw in relations between the two countries.
According to the Kremlin, the two leaders agreed that Russo-American relations were in an 'extremely unsatisfactory state' and pledged to improve the situation.
Trump's glowing remarks about Putin coupled with suspicions that Moscow used cyber attacks to gain him an advantage in the election has put the relationship of the two leaders under scrutiny.
Incoming US president Donald Trump has agreed to a face-to-face meeting with Russia's Vladamir Putin, marking a thaw in relations between the two countries
News of the call broke just as President Obama was preparing to address reporters before leaving on his final overseas trip, which takes him to Greece and Peru.
Putin and Trump agreed to work towards 'constructive cooperation,' the Kremlin said, according to a Reuters report.
The men plan to stay in touch by phone and also will meet face-to-face, in a new phase of a key relationship certain to have ramifications around the globe.
Russia caused an international crisis with its incursion into Crimea, a move that subjected Putin's regime to European, international, and U.S. sanctions. Sanctions the administration slapped on his regime even targeted some of the oligarchs close to Putin.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has spoken with President-elect Donald Trump, and discussed 'constructive cooperation,' according to the Kremlin
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Russia under Putin sent arms and air power into Syria to bolster the regime of President Bashar al Assad, even as the U.S. and a coalition of allies is supporting rebels fighting his government as well.
Trump hailed Putin throughout the campaign, including during the presidential debates.
News of the call broke just as President Obama was preparing to address reporters before leaving on his final overseas trip, which takes him to Greece and Peru
'I think I would have a very, very good relationship with Putin. And I think I would have a very, very good relationship with Russia He does have an 82% approval rating,' Trump said at an NBC forum.
Host Matt Lauer noted that Putin had annexed Crimea, invaded Ukraine, and backed Assad, among other things.
'Well, nobody knows that for a fact. But do you want me to start naming some of the things that President Obama does at the same time? I think when he [Putin] calls me brilliant, Ill take the compliment, OK?' Trump said, responding to a quote of Putin lauding the GOP candidate.
Trump hailed Putin repeatedly during the presidential campaign
Trump hailed Putin's leadership during the campaign and compared it favorably with how he said President Obama led the U.S.
TRANSMISSION FROM VLADIMIR: Trump and Putin spoke by phone, according to the Kremlin
SADDLE UP: The two leaders spoke about joining forces against the world's No. 1 enemy 'international terrorism and extremism' the Kremlin said
WHAT'S INSIDE? Russian matryoshka dolls of Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump for sale in a Moscow souvenir shop
Trump also said during the campaign that Putin had been a 'leader.'
'Certainly in that system, hes been a leader, far more than our president has been,' Trump said.
It remains to be seen whether Trump will be more open to Putin having freer reign to have a sphere of influence in eastern Europe. Asked this summer about defending NATO allies, Trump said, 'If they fulfill their obligations to us ... the answer is yes.'
According to the Kremlin, the two men agreed current U.S.-Russia ties are 'unsatisfactory,' the Associated Press reported, and spoke about cooperation on a 'broad range of issues.'
The agreed to fight agains the No. 1 enemy, 'international terrorism and extremism' and a solution of the conflict in Syria which U.S. officials believe Russia has helped prolong through it's support of Assad and bombing campaign in Aleppo.
Justin Ross Harris' ex-wife opened up in an emotional Facebook post, hours after he was found guilty of leaving their son Cooper to die in a hot car back in 2014.
Leanna Taylor, who took the stand in defense of her ex-husband, insisted she was 'not ok' and that the verdict hadn't brought her peace since it couldn't erase the pain of losing her child.
She wrote a devastated message warning other parents that they, too, could lose their children by leaving them in a hot vehicle.
Her impassioned defense also attacked the public for judging her. 'I don't care what your opinion is of me! It does not matter! Your opinion will never bring back my son,' Taylor wrote on her Facebook profile.
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A court has found Justin Ross Harris (pictured Monday) guilty of leaving his son Cooper to die in a hot car back in 2014
Harris' ex-wife Leanna (pictured with him and their son Cooper) opened up in an emotional Facebook post Monday in the hours after the verdict
Cooper, pictured sleeping shortly before the day he died in one of the images shown to the jury, baked to death on June 18, 2014. Harris left the 22-month-old in a hot car for seven hours while he worked at his Home Depot job in Marietta, Georgia
Harris (pictured in court on Monday) will likely now spend the next 30 years in a Georgia state prison. He will be sentenced on December 5
'For those of you who want to know if I am ok. The answer is no. I have not been "ok" since the moment I was told my son was dead.
'I have not been "ok" since the moment my life was put on this path that has led to Ross being found guilty of maliciously murdering our child,' Taylor wrote on her Facebook profile.
'So now you may be saying 'justice has been served.' And you are allowed your right to that opinion.
'But guess what, you can convict every parent that this has ever happened to, and I can promise you 2 things... #1 it will never bring our children back and #2 it will not prevent this from happening in the future.'
Taylor urged fellow parents to ask themselves what could be done to prevent more deaths like Cooper's in the future.
'So-called "justice" will never bring back my son. Nothing will ever take that pain away,' she continued.
'And nothing will ever feel worse than living with the knowledge that his pain and his death could have been prevented.'
Taylor and Harris' son Cooper baked to death on June 18, 2014 after Harris left the 22-month-old in a hot car for seven hours while he worked at his Home Depot job in Marietta, Georgia.
Temperatures inside the car approached 120 degrees, according to expert witnesses for the prosecution.
After 21 hours of deliberation over four days, the jury said that they found Harris guilty on all eight counts which had been set against him, in their first vote.
Harris, 35, was charged with malice murder, two counts of felony murder, first-degree cruelty to children, and second-degree cruelty to children.
Cooper's father will likely now spend the next 30 years in a Georgia state prison - and possibly until the day he dies.
The case gripped Georgia and drew national attention after investigators cast doubt on Harris' claim that his son's death was a tragic accident of lapsed memory - something his defense team stuck to throughout testimony.
But investigators said he may have wanted the toddler out of his life to allow him to carry on a string of extramarital affairs.
The first of eight counts in the indictment charged that Harris did 'unlawfully and with malice aforethought cause the death of Cooper Harris'.
In addition to the malice murder charge, Harris was also convicted of felony murder for killing his son while committing another felony - first degree cruelty to children. The indictment also charged that Harris maliciously caused his son 'cruel and excessive pain.'
Harris was further convicted of sexual exploitation of children - also a felony as well as two counts of dissemination of harmful material to minors, which are both misdemeanor crimes.
Harris showed little emotion as the verdicts were read out, closing his eyes at one point and appearing to sigh at another.
JUSTIN ROSS HARRIS' EX-WIFE FULL FACEBOOK POST 'For those of you who want to know if I am ok. The answer is no. I have not been "ok" since the moment I was told my son was dead. 'I have not been "ok" since the moment my life was put on this path that has led to Ross being found guilty of maliciously murdering our child. 'So now you may be saying "justice has been served." And you are allowed your right to that opinion. But guess what, you can convict every parent that this has ever happened to, and I can promise you 2 things...#1 it will never bring our children back and #2 it will not prevent this from happening in the future. 'Next summer, as this begins to happen over and over again, ask yourself, "what can be done?!" The problem is not the parent! The problem is a society that refuses to believe this can happen to them! Wake up! Accept it! And by accepting it you will be protecting your child! I don't care what your opinion is in my situation. 'I don't care what your opinion is of me! It does not matter! Your opinion will never bring back my son. So called "justice" will never bring back my son. Nothing will ever take that pain away. And nothing will ever feel worse than living with the knowledge that his pain and his death could have been prevented. 'Be the wise parent, and accept that this can happen. And you will never have to walk the path that my family has had to walk. And I pray YOU never have to walk this path." Advertisement
Harris looked down as the verdict was read out
If Harris is sentenced to the maximum penalty for his convictions, he could be facing more than 100 years behind bars, court officials said
HOW ROSS HARRIS REACTED AFTER BEING FOUND GUILTY Ross Harris looked stunned and then stoic as the court clerk read the verdict form, one 'guilty' after another for a total of eight convictions Monday afternoon. Harris showed no other emotion as Judge Mary Staley Clark questioned each juror as to the certainty of their decision. Once the jury was dismissed and court was adjourned, defense attorney Maddox Kilgore joined his client in the courthouse holding cell. They prayed together. 'Ross didn't say one word. Not one word about what happened in that courtroom,' Kilgore shared with journalists outside the courthouse as the late afternoon sun faded. 'He talked about Cooper. He talked about how much he misses him. He talked about how much he'll continue to miss him,' Kilgore shared in a quiet, solemn voice as he tried hold back tears. His client was finally able to grieve his son's death, he said. 'We've got the greatest system of criminal justice in the world. It's the envy of the world and we are so proud to be a part of it,' Kilgore said. 'Sometimes there are breakdowns in the system. When an innocent person is convicted, there have been some breakdowns. That's what happened here,' he continued. From the moment Kilgore met Ross Harris following Cooper's death in 2014, Kilgore and his team 'never once wavered in our absolute belief he's innocent,' he said. Cobb County Assistant Prosecutor Chuck Boring had a different perspective. 'It's hard to accept that someone is capable of such evil. He had malice in his heart absolutely,' he told reporters. During a post-trial conversation with attorneys, jurors said they were almost unanimous in their decisions at the outset of their deliberations. Those on the fence wanted to discuss the case more fully, he said. In what was described by court officials as 'spirited' conversations coming from the jury room, deliberations stretched over four days for slightly more than 21 hours. With 1,150 items presented as evidence, several jurors said it was the totality of the evidence rather than one element in particular, Boring said. Cobb County District Attorney Vic Reynolds said his prosecution team hoped at first that Cooper's death was not an intentional act. Cobb investigators believed 'something is very wrong about this case,' he said. 'Today is not a victory, nor is it a day we celebrate,' Reynolds said in his statement. 'Today is a monumentally sad day. I believe justice was served today on behalf of young Cooper Harris.' As for Harris' ex-wife Leanna, Boring said his office would 'leave that to the Cobb County Police.' Though initially considered a suspect in Cooper's death, no evidence emerged that implicated her, police said. She divorced her husband earlier this year but testified as a witness for his defense. Advertisement
Evidence showed that Harris sent images of his erect penis to underage women and asked a teen girl to text images of her genitals to him.
He also sent explicit, detailed verbal descriptions and narrative accounts of sexual excitement and sexual conduct, prosecutors charged.
If Harris is sentenced to the maximum penalty for his convictions, he could be facing more than 100 years behind bars, court officials said.
The 'malice murder,' 'felony murder' and 'cruelty to children, first degree' charges each carry a life sentence with parole eligibility after 30 years.
Video of Harris and his son Cooper were shown to the jury in an often emotionally fraught trial
But Judge Mary Staley Clark could impose life sentences without parole -- and Harris could spend the rest of his life behind bars.
Harris turns 36 later this month.
Police said Harris and his son shared breakfast at a Chick-fil-A on the morning of June 18, 2014. Instead of taking his son to a company-owned day care center after their meal, Harris drove a short distance to his job as a Home Depot web developer, Harris admitted to police.
He parked his car and locked the doors with his son still inside, strapped to his child safety seat on the SUV's rear seat, Harris admitted to investigators.
The windows were up. The temperature inside reached over 120 degrees, according to trial evidence. Cooper died of hyperthermia during the 7 hours Harris worked inside his office.
Harris told police he forgot to take his son to day care after breakfast, but prosecutors argued Cooper's death was deliberate and intentional.
Maddox Kilgore, Carlos Rodriguez and Bryan Lumpkin gave the Ross Harris murder case everything they had to save their client.
'If it's an accident, it's not a crime,' said defense attorney Maddox Kilgore
Chuck Boring, assistant Cobb County prosecutor, reminded the court Monday of the eight counts against Harris
Harris (pictured Monday) had a 'double life' and was obsessed with sex, the state argued. He longed for a life free of children, marriage and responsibility, prosecutor Boring told the jury
Cooper (pictured) died of hyperthermia during the 7 hours Harris worked inside his office. The temperature inside reached over 120 degrees, according to trial evidence
Kilgore and his team hoped the jury would see that Cooper's death was an accident and a tragedy that could happen to anyone.
They brought in defense a memory expert witness who testified that a 'U-turn' in traffic, necessary to navigate outside the Chick-fil-A restaurant, could have created a memory lapse and caused Harris to forget his plan to drive Cooper to a nearby day care center.
Instead of making a left-hand turn to the child care facility, Harris kept driving straight, the expert explained. Harris was likely on 'auto-pilot' and drove the .6 mile 'well-worn' path to his job completely forgetting that his son was still in the car, he said.
Cooper could easily have fallen asleep in those moments, Harris' attorneys suggested.
Prosecution evidence showed Harris 'sexted' other women constantly, up to and including the day his son died -- and even exchanged texts with another woman while his son struggled to breathe in the stifling summer heat.
Harris had a 'double life' and was obsessed with sex, the state argued. He longed for a life free of children, marriage and responsibility, prosecutor Chuck Boring told the jury. Cooper's death was deliberate and intentional, he argued.
Harris, 35, was charged with malice murder, two counts of felony murder, first-degree cruelty to children, and second-degree cruelty to children
Among the prosecution's witnesses were a former prostitute and several women who were teenagers when they embarked on affairs with Harris.
Harris' ex-wife appeared for the defense and told the court he had 'destroyed my life'.
Prosecutors also pointed the finger at suspicious computer activity, saying Harris had researched hot car deaths online.
But an expert in digital forensics and data recovery, called as a defense witness, said that his research of Harris' computers did not reveal any searches by him about 'hot car deaths' or 'how hot a vehicle must be for a child to die inside it'.
Harris himself declined to testify.
The red car seat in which Harris' son Cooper died was among the evidence assessed by jurors
Defense attorney Kilgore (pictured talking after his client's conviction) hoped the jury would see that Cooper's death was an accident and a tragedy that could happen to anyone
Assistant prosecutor Boring (pictured Monday after Harris' verdict) said: 'It's hard to accept that someone is capable of such evil. He had malice in his heart absolutely'
In sometimes emotional testimony, jurors heard how Harris screeched to a stop in a shopping center parking lot after leaving work that June day and frantically yelled for help.
He screamed, 'What have I done?' as bystanders helped to pull his lifeless son from the back seat of his silver Hyundai Tucson to administer CPR.
The court heard from police and crime scene investigators that Cooper was already sweat-soaked and lifeless as Harris drove away from his office after work.
The car windows had been rolled up as he left the car park, and jurors heard testimony about the 'smell of death' and a urine-soaked diaper that likely filled the car on that after-work drive.
During testimony jurors viewed the car that was both crime scene and murder weapon. The viewing included Cooper's red safety seat mounted inside, only inches from where Harris sat.
Cooper's legs were bent and stiff from rigor mortis when police arrived.
The jury was shown videos of Harris at the police station shortly after Cooper's death. He paced around the small interrogation room known as 'the box.' They heard him wail, 'Why, God, why? Oh, God!' several times, to no one in particular.
Harris will be sentenced on December 5. Defense attorney Kilgore said appeals will be filed. He moved for a mistrial several times during the course of the trial.
A medical examiner has determined that a 16-year-old Texas girl who went missing with her boyfriend last week and was later found dead in the woods had been stabbed to death.
Kirsten Nicole Fritch disappeared on Tuesday before the bodies of her mother and sister were discovered in their home in Baytown, Texas.
Her boyfriend, 21-year-old Jesse Dobbs, was arrested in Texas City hours later after walking in to Shenanigans bar covered in sweat and asking for a glass of water.
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Slaughtered: Kirsten Fritch (left), 16, had been stabbed to death before her body was found in the woods in Texas City Thursday, two days after she vanished with boyfriend Jesse Dobbs (right)
The teenager's mother Cynthia Morris (right) was found shot dead in her home in Baytown 30 miles away on Tuesday with her other daughter (not pictured)
So far, Dobbs has only been charged with resisting arrest. Police say he is considered the only person of interest in the three killings.
The Galveston County Medical Examiner's Officer confirmed on Friday that Fritch's cause of death was sharp force injury, reported the station KTRK.
The teenager had sustained multiple stab wounds to her chest, neck, abdomen and face. There was no word on the murder weapon.
Dobbs went on the run after allegedly shooting dead his girlfriend's mother and her 13-year-old sister.
Cynthia Morris, 37, and Breanna Pavilicek were found at their home on Tuesday after Morris's mother called police to share her concerns.
The medical examiner's office has stated that Morris was shot in the torso and neck while Pavilicek suffered gunshot wounds to her head, neck and right shoulder.
Police said Dobbs' grandmother told them she and Morris did not approve of a relationship between Dobbs and Fritch.
Dobbs, 22, was named as a person of interest in their deaths as an amber alert for Kirsten was sent out
The girl's body was found in woodland behind Shenanigans bar in Texas City (above) on Thursday
Barbara DeRamus told KENS5 that her granddaughter, who was an orchestra musician and had plans to study medicine in college, had met Dobbs online a couple of weeks before the murders.
A short time after the two started dating, the 21-year-old moved in with Fritch's family, but her mother wanted him out.
'He just seemed like a lowlife,' DeRamus said. 'I thought what was Kirsten doing with this idiot.'
The 21-year-old has two children from a previous relationship, and earlier this year he was charged with domestic violence against the children's mother, who claimed that he was a methamphetamine addict.
'I believe he murdered my daughter and my innocent 13-year-old granddaughter,' said the grandmother. 'I hope he rots in hell.'
Police were searching for the gun used in the shootings, according to The Houston Chronicle.
Police issued an amber alert for Kristen on Tuesday and shared an image of her mother's car which they said had gone missing
It took police just half an hour to locate her body in woodland on Thursday morning (above) as supplied by KHOU11
Dobbs was arrested in Texas City 30 miles away after entering the bar sweating profusely without shoes and asking for a drink of water.
It took officers only 30 minutes to find Kristen's body on Thursday.
Investigators had issued an Amber Alert for Fritch, sharing her photograph and a photograph of her mother's car - a cream 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
The girl's mother and 13-year-old sister were found dead in their home in Baytown on Tuesday at 11am (above)
Authorities have arrested a man accused of dragging a woman out of her car after their vehicles crashed in northern Virginia and raping her during a two-hour attack.
Roberto Carlos Flores Sibrian, 26, was arrested last Thursday at a construction site in Sanford, North Carolina, the Stafford County Sherriff's Office said in a statement.
Sibrian, who is reportedly an illegal immigrant, is charged with rape and aggravated sexual battery in the October 31 attack in Fredericksburg, the statement said.
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Roberto Carlos Flores Sibrian, 26, was arrested last Thursday at a construction site in Sanford, North Carolina and has been charged with rape and aggravated sexual battery
He is accused of dragging a woman out of her car after their vehicles crashed in northern Virginia, dragging her into a ditch (pictured) and raping her during a two-hour attack
On October 31, a woman was driving down Kings Highway/Route 3 when the suspect struck her car, forcing her off the road between 2.45 and 3.15am, according to NBC News.
After the crash, Sibrian allegedly pulled the young woman out of the car, dragged her to a ditch and sexually assaulted her for two hours, police said.
Following the attack, the suspect fled the scene leaving behind his shirt and the victim called 911 for help.
Authorities received about 100 leads in connection to the crime, according to the sheriff's office.
On October 31, a woman was driving down Kings Highway/Route 3 when the suspect struck her car, forcing her off the road between 2.45 and 3.15am
After the crash, Sibrian allegedly pulled the young woman out of the car, dragged her to a ditch and sexually assaulted her for two hours, police said. He fled the scene, leaving behind his shirt (pictured), police said
Sibrian is being detained in North Carolina on a $100,000 bond and Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainer.
A sheriff's office spokeswoman said she did not have any further details about his immigration status.
However, the suspect did not have a permanent address and was living in the Fredericksburg area before the crime, authorities said.
It was not clear if he had an attorney who could comment on his behalf.
The investigation is ongoing.
Labor MP Kate Ellis said they spend too much time travelling
Warned that politicians needed to pay more attention to their electorates
Politicians have warned that if local members and political parties continue to ignore voters, Australia could see the rise of their own Donald Trump.
On ABC'S Q&A on Monday night the panel was asked whether the 'Trump phenomenon' could make its way Down Under as dissatisfied voters look for alternatives.
Labor MP Kate Ellis warned that while we shouldn't be concerned about Pauline Hanson becoming Prime Minister, 'cynicism about politics' was at an all-time high, as politicians spent too much time travelling and bickering between themselves.
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Australian politicians have warned of a 'Donald Trump phenomenon' in Australia
'Everybody can see that the level of cynicism about politics in Australia has reached a high,' she told the program.
Ms Ellis said there was a 'real issue about people not trusting their members of parliament' across the country.
'And frankly if you look at the past decade or so you can understand why people might feel like members of parliament have been more focused on each other, their internal divisions, than on the issues that matter to the people of Australia.'
The Labor MP said politicians were spending too much time travelling, and too little time actually speaking to the people in their electorates.
Labor MP Kate Ellis said politicians were spending too much time travelling, and not enough face-to-face with voters
'I suspect that in times past, people would have had more face-to-face contact with their members of parliament.
'There are people who talk about the town hall meetings that they go to. You could ask the questions, engage and debate,' Ms Ellis said.
'Perhaps with people flying here, there and everywhere, with social media, there's not as much of that direct contact.
'We need to turn it around because our democracy relies upon the Australian public having faith in it,' she added.
During the program the panel was also asked whether One Nation leader Pauline Hanson could follow in Trump's footsteps and become prime minister.
The panel was also asked whether One Nation leader Pauline Hanson could follow in Trump's footsteps and become prime minister
Ms Ellis and Deputy PM Barnaby Joyce both agreed that she couldn't, but warned that ignoring voters could lead to a similar Trump phenomenon.
'I respect the half a million people who voted for One Nation but it's a lot harder running the show than talking about the show,' Mr Joyce said.
'I don't think we should all start getting the Pauline for PM merchandise ready,' Ms Ellis joked.
'But that's not to say that we shouldn't heed the warning, and make sure we do look at the rising levels of inequality.'
The bodies of former Polish President Lech Kaczynski and his wife Maria are to be removed from their tomb in Krakow after dark on Monday, the first of more than 80 exhumations planned on prominent Poles killed in a plane crash in Russia in 2010.
The exhumations are part of a new investigation into the crash ordered by Poland's conservative ruling party, Law and Justice, which is led by Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the late president's twin brother.
Post-mortems will be carried out to determine the cause of the deaths and of the crash, identify all the remains and check for explosives, since some of Kaczynski's followers believe that a planned blast downed the aircraft, killing all 96 aboard.
Lech Kaczynski, right, and his wife Maria, left, were killed with the aircraft they were travelling in crashed in bad weather approaching a Russian military airstrip on April 10, 2010
Conspiracy theorists, including the current head of Poland's ruling party Jaroslaw Kaczynski, who also happens to be the late President's twin brother, believes the Russians are responsible
The Russian-built Tupolev Tu-154 aircraft was approaching Smolensk airport with much of Poland's senior leadership on board when the jet crashed killing all 96 people on board
Kaczynski has cast doubt on earlier investigations - carried out by both Poland and Russia - which concluded that the crash was an accident caused primarily by bad weather and pilot error.
Kaczynski has for years encouraged a conspiracy theory suggesting Russia carried out an assassination with the support, or at least the consent, of the Polish prime minister at the time - Donald Tusk, now the president of the European Council.
Kaczynski wants to take Tusk, his nemesis, to court and is seeking evidence against him.
He said: 'There will not be a free Poland, a truly free Poland, without the truth, without a proper honoring of those who died, without a closure of this case which has cast such a long shadow on our national and social life.'
The bodies of Kaczynski and his wife, Maria Kaczynska, will be removed from their alabaster tomb at the Wawel Cathedral in Krakow, the resting place of many of Poland's kings and writers. Jaroslaw Kaczynski and the presidential couple's daughter, Marta Kaczynska, are to attend.
Forensic experts will remove the bodies of President Kaczynski and his wife to test them for traces of explosive residue over claims the aircraft was brought down by a bomb
Jaroslaw Kaczynski, right, believes his twin brother Lech, left, was murdered in the crash
The remains will then be transported to a forensics laboratory at Krakow's renowned Jagiellonian University for a series of tests, including computer tomography and DNA tests.
Scientists will also look for the presence of explosives to check the belief held by many Kaczynski supporters that the plane, a Russian-made Tupolev Tu-154 operated by the Polish air force, disintegrated in mid-air in an intended explosion.
Prosecutors say they plan to exhume and perform similar post-mortems on a total of 83 bodies through the end of 2017.
Four bodies were cremated, while nine other bodies were already exhumed in 2011 and 2012 after families protested major errors in autopsy reports carried out by the Russians right after the crash. It turned out six victims had been buried in the wrong graves.
The Russians have said the mistakes occurred due to the fragmented state of the bodies, but to many Poles they are proof of wrongdoing by the Russians, suspicions fueled by Moscow's refusal so far to return the plane's wreckage and the flight recorders to the Poles.
Prosecutors claim the exhumations of the victims' bodies is necessary because of mistakes made by Russian authorities during the original post mortem process
The bodies of 83 of the crash victims will be examined over the next 12 months
Law and Justice, which assumed power a year ago, says Tusk's team neglected to have each of the bodies examined, out of disregard for the late president, a political rival, and out of concern that the findings could anger Russia's President Vladimir Putin - something Tusk and members of his Civic Platform party deny.
The exhumations are proving controversial, with most Poles dismissive of the conspiracy theories, and some relatives aghast at the thought of their loved ones being exhumed.
Families of 17 of the victims wrote in an open letter: 'We stand alone and helpless in the face of this ruthless and cruel act.
'The forceful exhumations constitute a violation of a taboo existing in our culture that calls for the respect of the bodies of the dead.'
The tragedy occurred April 10, 2010, when the presidential delegation was traveling to honor 22,000 Polish officers who were murdered by the Soviet secret police at the start of World War II in the Katyn forest and elsewhere.
The delegation included government members, politicians, military commanders and the relatives of officers slain in the wartime massacre.
News / National
by Stephen Jakes
Some concerned citizens have written a letter to Tourism and Hospitality Minister Walter Mzembi asking him to p[-robe the issue of government officials who are frustrating visitors into the country through applying stringent regulations some of them drawing large sums of money from the visitors.The visitors letter posted on Facebook by one Tanai Forest states that it is such a pity that there are government officials who do not encourage visitors to Zimbabwe."Like the senior lady at the Victoria Falls customs office. We were traveling through Zimbabwe spending a few nights and obviously spending money in this country. We were asked to pay a deposit for inverters going through to South Africa for repair. This surprised us as there is no duty or vat on solar goods," said the visitors in a letter."Not wanting to delay our journey we paid the deposit of $370. We then inquired if the refund would be in cash, the customs official could not guarantee the refund would be in cash on our exit. We then requested that we be refunded to return to Zambia and go to South Africa via Botswana. The customs official then explained that the money could not be refunded as it had to be banked although it was sitting in the cash box!"Forest said they asked her if it was not possible to cancel the receipt and return their money."She said it was not possible and that we should exit Zimbabwe between 8am and 5pm and we would be refunded. As we had now spent 3 hours at Vic Falls border post we decided that instead of exiting at Plumtree we would exit through Kasane nearby and get our money and continue through Botswana," the visitor said."When we exited at Kasane the customs officer there explained we could only get our refund from Vic Falls as all deposits were kept in the safe and returned once goods have been exited and proof supplied. This is a surprise as one officer is saying they are kept in the safe to be refunded in return and the other is saying it needs to be banked."Forest said they will definitely be returning to Vic Falls to claim their refund and they will see who is telling the truth!"If this is how they treat visitors no wonder nobody wants to visit Zimbabwe," Forest said.
The former deputy premier of New South Wales Troy Grant has blamed the anti-establishment Donald Trump effect for costing him his job.
The ex police inspector stepped down as Nationals leader, following a record 35 per cent swing against his party at Saturday's Orange by-election.
He was replaced by the member for Monaro, John Barilaro, who was elected unopposed on Tuesday morning with Niall Blair as deputy, defeating Andrew Fraser.
Mr Troy said the 'Trump effect' had seen voters in the rural electorate turn against his party, which had held the previously safe seat in the state's central west since 1947.
'Its the anti-establishment protest vote, I definitely saw it Saturday,' he told The Daily Telegraph.
'It wasnt the only reason. There was the cumulative decision-making government had made that people had the s**s with.'
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Former New South Wales deputy premier Troy Grant (pictured) has blamed the 'Trump effect' for a record 35 per cent swing against the Nationals at the Orange by-election
U.S. president-elect Donald Trump's surprise win has been invoked to describe a strong swing against the Nationals in the state's central west
The Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party looks set to pick up the seat, following anger in regional NSW about an abandoned greyhound racing ban and council amalgamations.
Nationals candidate Scott Barrett's failure in Orange also saw Education Minister Adrian Piccoli step down as deputy Nationals leader.
Awkwardly, Mr Grant is the godfather of new leader Mr Barilaro's daughter Sophia, mirroring a toxic personal situation in the federal Labor Party, between 2010 and 2013, where former prime minister Kevin Rudd was the godfather of bitter caucus rival Wayne Swan's son Matt.
'Theres no secret Barra and I are mates, Im godfather to his daughter Sophia Grace, nothings changed,' Mr Grant said.
The member for Monaro John Barilaro was elected unopposed as the new leader of the New South Wales Nationals
Unmuzzled: anger at the New South Wales government's earlier plan to ban greyhound racing has been blamed for the drubbing the Nationals suffered at the Orange by-election
Mr Grant, who held the police and racing portfolios, stepped down as deputy premier on Monday afternoon in a bid to give the government a chance to 'pause and reset'.
'No one encouraged me to go. I spoke to my colleagues about it and I just didn't want the turmoil to continue,' he told reporters in Sydney.
Premier Mike Baird on Monday admitted he should be held accountable for the 'terrible' coalition outcome.
'I know what a great man Troy Grant is. He's done an incredible job for his community, and his leadership in the last state election was second to none,' he said.
Premier Mike Baird (pictured right) has praised outgoing his outgoing deputy Troy Grant
The premier said the Liberal-National coalition government would learn from the by-election drubbing but added it had no plans to reverse the deeply unpopular council amalgamations.
Labor leader Luke Foley, whose party preferenced the Shooters in the Orange by-election, said it was unfortunate Mr Grant was sacrificed over the greyhounds debacle.
'They're trying to make poor old Troy Grant walk the gang plank to get the heat off Mike Baird (but) it's the policies of Mr Baird that have driven this government near to a cul-de-sac,' he said.
With just 204 votes to be counted, Shooters candidate Phil Donato is on track to win the party's first ever lower house seat of Orange on 50.3 per cent of the two-party preferred vote, with the Nationals on 49.7 per cent.
Megyn Kelly has revealed that her five-year-old daughter claimed she was 'afraid' of Donald Trump.
The Fox News host writes in her upcoming memoir Settle For More that before one of the Fox News debates she was standing backstage when her daughter Yardley said to her: 'I'm afraid of Donald Trump. He wants to hurt me.'
When Kelly asked why she would say and told her that was not true, the young girl replied: 'Well, he wants to hurt you, so he wants to hurt me too.'
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New story: Megyn Kelly (above) reveals in her new memoir that he daughter was afraid at Donald Trump during the election
Reassurance: When Kelly told the five-year-old (center with her brothers) that was not true, she said: 'Well, he wants to hurt you, so he wants to hurt me too'
In the book, Kelly writes that her troubles with Trump began shortly before that first debate, which she had been selected to moderate by then-Fox news CEO Roger Ailes.
Kelly claims that Trump became angry with her over a segment she ran on her show The Kelly File, and demanded that she personally phone him to address it or else he would not show up for a previously scheduled appearance on the program.
When Kelly did call Trump, she claims he told her: 'I almost unleashed my beautiful Twitter account against you, and I still may.'
Kelly also writes about how some people began to perceive Trump around the time of the first debate, stating: 'Folks were starting to worry about Trump - his level of agitation did not match the circumstances.
'Yes, it was his first debate. But this was bizarre behavior, especially for a man who wanted the nuclear codes.'
Then, in the aftermath of the debate and Kelly's question to Trump about his treatment of women, the president-elect did unleash his 'beautiful Twitter account' against Kelly.
Kelly's memoir Settle For More will be released in bookstores Tuesday
He attacked the host on social media and in interviews, saying at one point that Kelly 'had blood coming out of her ears, blood coming out of her wherever.'
Some on his staff also called for a boycott of Kelly's Fox News program.
'Every time he started in, Id get a call from Roger [Ailes] (who was getting calls from Trump),' writes Kelly.
'Was I being fair to Trump? Was I being too hard on him? He felt the bar for skeptical Trump coverage should be higher.'
Fox News did little to combat Trump's attacks writes Kelly, thought she does note that Ailes would speak to Trump daily 'trying to calm him down.'
That was a huge shift from the way Trump behaved at the start of the campaign writes Kelly in the book, claiming that the billionaire businessman offered her free vacation and travel shortly after he first announced he would be entering the race in June of last year.
Trump offered to send Kelly and her husband Douglas Brunt to Mar-a-Lago for a weekend, and also tried to pick up the tab for a weekend staycation the Fox News host enjoyed with girlfriends at the Trump Soho in New York City she claims in the book.
Busy girl: Kelly posted a photo on Monday after signing books in Manhattan (above)
Troubles: Kelly also details the problems Trump (above) had with her prior to the first debate in the book
'I was not the only journalist to whom Trump offered gifts clearly meant to shape coverage. Many reporters have told me that Trump worked hard to offer them something fabulous - from hotel rooms to rides on his 757,' writes Kelly.
She referred to that as one of the 'untold stories of the 2016 campaign.'
November has already gotten off to a banner start for Kelly, who kicked off the month by learning she had managed to beat all other cable news programs in the key demographic this October.
Among individuals aged 25 to 54, Kelly pulled in an average nightly audience of 641,000 viewers, putting her 20,000 viewers ahead of fellow Fox News host Bill O'Reilly.
And with Kelly lining up a number of high-profile interviews and appearances prior to her book's release, there is also much speculation as to whether or not she will stay at Fox News when her contract is over next July.
Obama on Monday urged President-elect Trump not to deport 'DREAMers' brought here as kids who 'did nothing wrong'
He previously called for going after 'bad hombres' here in the U.S.
Mayors of Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago vow to keep 'sanctuary' status where they don't turn over people to federal authorities because of their immigration status
The nation's three largest cities are vowing to maintain their 'sanctuary' status in defiance of President-elect Donald Trump's call to deport up to 3 million undocumented 'criminal' immigrants who came here illegally.
The chief of the Los Angeles Police Department said Monday the department had no plans of departing from its policy of not stopping people based on suspicion of their immigration status.
The mayors of LA and New York have said they maintain to keep their cities' 'sanctuary' status, and Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel declared that the Windy City will 'always be a sanctuary city.'
All three cities are heavily Democratic and have large immigrant populations.
'To be clear about what Chicago is, it always will be a sanctuary city,' Emanuel said on Monday.
President-elect Donald Trump says a crackdown might deport two to three million immigrants who came here illegally and who have criminal records but three top cities aren't planning to change the way they handle enforcement
After campaigning on a crackdown on illegal immigration, Trump told CBS' '60 Minutes' in an episode airing Sunday that he would focus on 'criminal' aliens first.
'What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people, probably 2 million, it could be even 3 million, we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate,' Trump said. 'But we're getting them out of our country, they're here illegally.'
Trump has listed immigration as one of his immediate priorities, although House Speaker Paul Ryan told CNN on Sunday: 'We are not planning on erecting a deportation force. Donald Trump is not planning on that.'
In 2014, the U.S. deported fewer than 200,000 criminal aliens.
Big city mayors Bill de Blasio and Rahm Emanuel are vowing to keep the role of 'sanctuary' cities
President-elect Donald Trump says as many as 3 million 'criminal' immigrants without documentation could be incarcerated or deported
Trump's statement drew an immediate backlash from three of the largest cities in America. In so-called sanctuary cities, members of law enforcement aren't required to report to the feds people who came here illegally when they come across them.
In New York, mayor Bill de Blasio is considering scrubbing the city records of people applied for city-issued ID cards, in what is being cast as an effort to keep the information out of the hands of the Trump administration, the New York Post reported.
'We are not going to sacrifice a half million people who live among us, who are part of our community,' said de Blasio, referencing immigrants living in the city. 'We are not going to tear families apart.'
In Los Angeles, police officers are prohibited from approaching someone to determine their immigration status, as the LA Times reported, and in practice don't hand people over to the feds for low-level crimes.
President Obama told reporters Monday he has urged Trump not to deport 'DREAMers' who got brought here by their parents.
Obama urged Trump to 'think long and hard before they are endangering the status of [people] who, for all practical purposes, are American kids,' Obama said. 'These are kids who were brought here by their parents. They did nothing wrong. They've gone to school, they've pledged allegiance to the flag. By definition, if they're part of this program, they are solid, wonderful young people with good character.'
He didn't directly respond at a White House press conference to a part of the question dealing with what would happen to data collected by the feds among applicants for a special status under Obama's executive order for people who were brought here illegally as kids.
About 728,000 people registered under the program, Bloomberg News reported.
LAPD chief Charlie Beck said Monday, following the release of Trump's comments: 'I dont intend on doing anything different. We are not going to engage in law enforcement activities solely based on somebodys immigration status. We are not going to work in conjunction with Homeland Security on deportation efforts. That is not our job, nor will I make it our job.'
It isn't yet clear whether a Trump administration, backed by a GOP Congress, could use the power of the purse to tug at sanctuary cities to bring them in line.
Trump has threatened to withdraw funds from sanctuary cities something de Blasio called 'dangerous.'
President Barack Obama delivered a series of patronizing backhanded compliments to President-Elect Donald Trump on Monday during a lengthy White House press conference conducted before his final trip abroad as America's leader.
While he praised Trump for pulling off 'one of the biggest political upsets in history,' Obama scolded his Republican successor for believing he can deliver on his campaign promises.
'I think that he successfully mobilized a big chunk of the country to vote for him,' Obama told reporters.
But 'regardless of what experience or assumptions he brought to the office, this office has a way of waking you up.'
'And those aspects of his positions or predispositions that don't match up with reality, he will find shaken up pretty quick. Because reality has a way of asserting itself.'
President Barack Obama on Monday dismissed the idea that President-Elect Donald Trump can accomplish what he set out to when he moves into the White House in January
An unapologetic Trump campaigned on ambitious pledges mostly to dismantle Obama's legacy but the outgoing president patronized him during a lengthy press conference
Trump campaigned on an no-holds-barred agenda of dismantling much of Obama's agenda including immigration reforms put in place without congressional input, a widely criticized Iranian nuclear deal and an Obamacare system whose pilings have grown shaky.
But the president suggested the billionaire's poetic rallies can never jive with Washington's messier prose.
'I think it'll be important for him to have the room, to staff up, to figure out what his priorites are, to be able to distinguish between what he was campaigning on and what is practical what he can actually achieve,' Obama cautioned.
'You know, there are certain things that made for good good soundbites, but don't always translate into good policy. And that's something that he and his team will wrestle with in the same way every president wrestles with.'
Ultimately, Obama hinted, he believes Trump is more a realist than a principled conservative despite connecting with a previously disengaged voting base on the strength of broad promises.
Obama spoke to reporters before leaving for his final overseas trip as president, and they had questions aplenty about his Republican successor
Trump promised to repeal and replace Obamacare, scuttle the White House's Iran nuclear deal, roll back a list of immigration executive orders and 'drain the swamp' in Washington
'I think that connection that he was able to make with his supporters that was impervious to events that might have sunk another candidate that's powerful stuff,' Obama said.
'I also think that he is coming to this office with fewer set hard-and-fast policy prescriptions than a lot of other presidents might be arriving with.'
Trump beat Hillary Clinton decisively by vowing to repeal and replace government-controlled medical insurance, upend eight years of foreign policy and dismantle corrupt revolving doors between government and the lobbying class.
Obama suggested it was all an act, and seemed to admonish Trump not to trust his own instincts in the Oval Office.
'I don't think he is ideological,' the president said. 'I think ultimately he's pragmatic in that way. And that can serve him well as long as he's got good people around him and he has a clear sense of direction.'
He also implied that Trump's forceful attitude could get him in trouble quickly.
'Whatever you bring to this office, this office has a habit of magnifying and pointing out. And hopefully then you correct for it,' he said.
The president complimented Trump on his upset victory over Hillary Clinton but scolded him for thinking he can actually get things done in the Oval Office
'There are going to be certain elements of his temperament that will not serve him well unless he recognizes them and corrects them,' Obama continued.
'Because when you're a candidate and you say something that is inaccurate or controversial, it has less impact than it does when you're President of the United States. Everybody is paying attention. Markets move.'
'National security issues require a level of precision in order to make sure that you don't make mistakes. And I think he recognizes that this is different. And so do the American people,' Obama said.
The president said that while he still has 'concerns' about turning the White House over to a brash Republican who attacked him vigorously for more than 16 months, two factors are likely to slow Trump down.
One is the lethargy and intransigence of Washington itself even though Trump will inherit a Congress run completely by the GOP.
Obama said Trump may find it difficult to reconcile what his screaming throngs expect from him on the one hand, and what Washington will practically permit on the other
'The federal government and our democracy is not a speedboat. It's an ocean liner, as I discovered when I came into office,' Obama said.
'It took a lot of really hard work for us to make significant policy changes, even in our first two years when we had larger majorities than Mr. Trump will enjoy when he comes into office.'
The other is a midterm election right around the corner that could dissolve his legislative majorities as quickly as Obama's disappeared in the 2010 tea party wave.
'I think he's going to try as best as he can to make sure that he delivers. Not only for the people who voted for him, but for the people at large,' Obama said.
Every day after school, 12-year-old Chen Xiaohua can be seen sitting in a phone booth on a street of Jiaxin city - rain or shine, snow or sleet.
The teenage girl has been using the light from the public facility to write her homework for the past four years, reported People's Daily Online.
Diligent Xiaohua, a fifth-grade pupil at a primary school, does so in order to wait for her parents, who are sanitation workers, to get off work and go home together.
Studying hard: 12-year-old Chen Xiaohua, from China, does her homework in a phone booth
Pictures have emerged showing the schoolgirl sitting on a square cushion while reading a text book placed on an old chair. Xiaohua uses the chair as a desk.
According to the report, the images were taken near the Chinese Medicine Hospital in Jiaxing.
Her father, Chen Fukang, told a reporter from Chengdu Business Daily that her daughter had done homework in that phone booth since the first grade. He rarely saw people using the public phone.
Both Fukang and his wife are sanitation workers and they work on the streets nearby.
They want their daughter to wait for them in the phone booth, according to Fukang.
The father explained that his family were original from Anyue county, in south-west China's Sichuan Province.
He said he and his wife did not want his daughter to do homework alone at their rented home because they worried about Xiaohua's safety.
He added: 'I finish work every day at 10pm, and my wife needs to work at a restaurant until 8pm after she finishes sweeping the streets.
'We get off work too late. There is a river next to our home, which we rent, and children have fallen into the river in the past.
'We worry about accidents.'
Tough choice: Xiaohua's father told his daughter to wait for him in the booth so they could go home together after he finishes sweeping the streets
Xiaohua's mother, Li Dailan, picks up Xiaohua from school at around 3:50pm and takes her to the phone booth on East Zhongshan Road.
Around the same time, Fukang would put a cushion and an old chair in the phone booth for his daughter to use.
He told the reporter: 'The two pieces of furniture were picked up by me. The chair can be used as a desk, and the cushion as a seat.'
According to Fukang, Xiaohua does homework in the phone booth between one to three hours daily.
He said she often had to use the light from the light booth in winter because the street lights only came on at around 5:30pm.
However the toughest times were in summer, according to the father, because Xiaohua would get many mosquito bites from sitting in the open air.
The sanitation worker then said: 'In our hometown, the only way for one to change their life is through studying.
'I too hope my daughter can go to university. At least she should stay in school for as long as possible. That way, [she] won't be at a disadvantage when she enters the society.'
However, the father said Xiaohua's grades had not been good, which worried him and his wife.
Fukang's elder son works in Kangding city in Sichuan and his elderly mother stills lives in their hometown.
The United States would become 'a kind of rogue country' if it pulls out of an international agreement to combat global warming, leaving the world more vulnerable to droughts and other climate extremes, warned Mary Robinson, a former Irish president and human rights advocate.
'It would be a tragedy for the United States and the people of the United States if the U.S. becomes a kind of rogue country, the only country in the world that is somehow not going to go ahead with the Paris Agreement,' Robinson said in an interview with the Thomson Reuters Foundation on Sunday.
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, a Republican, has promised to pull the United States out of that global climate accord, which was agreed last year by 193 countries and which came into effect earlier this month, just in advance of his election.
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Mary Robinson made the claims at U.N. climate talks in Marrakesh, saying it would be a 'tragedy for the United States and the people of the United States'
THE GREEN CLIMATE FUND The Green Climate Fund pledges are part of a wider effort by rich countries to mobilize $100 billion annually for poor countries, announced by Clinton in 2009 when she was U.S. secretary of state. The plan calls for scaling up financing to that level by 2020. So far rich countries say they're about two-thirds there, though many developing countries challenge that assessment. Climate activists are calling on rich countries to raise their contributions, fearing that withdrawing U.S. funds could have a domino effect. Advertisement
The deal aims to hold climate change to 'well below' 2 degrees Celsius of warming by moving the world economy away from fossil fuels.
The agreement provides for $100 billion a year in international funding from 2020 to help poorer countries develop cleanly and adapt to the already inevitable impacts of climate change.
Robinson, who now runs a foundation focused on seeking justice for people hit hard by climate impacts despite having contributed little to the problem, said she was confident other countries would continue their backing for the accord regardless of any action taken by the United States.
'I don't think that the process itself will be affected (if) one country, however big and important that country is, decides not to go ahead,' she said on the sidelines of U.N. climate talks in Marrakesh, due to end on Friday.
But a pullout could mean a 'huge difference' to already difficult efforts to gather enough international finance to help poorer countries develop their economies without increasing their emissions, 'which is what they want to do', she said.
'The moral obligation of the United States as a big emitter, and a historically big emitter that built its whole economy on fossil fuels that are now damaging the world - it's unconscionable the United States would walk away from it,' she said of the threat to withdraw from the Paris deal.
However, Robinson said she sympathised with Americans who had lost their jobs in polluting industries such as coal, many of whom supported Trump in his election campaign.
Mary Robinson made the claims at U.N. climate talks in Marrakesh.
'Clearly they're hurting at the moment,' she said, calling for assistance to help such workers retrain and win new jobs in a clean energy economy.
'But it's not a future to go backward into coal and have higher emissions in the United States,' she warned.
'The impact of that will be felt by poor communities and poor countries all over the world.'
As a U.N. envoy for El Nino and climate change, she said she had been in dry regions of Honduras where women told her they no longer had water as a result of worsening drought.
WHITE HOUSE 'COMMITTED' TO PARIS DEAL The Obama administration remains committed to implementing the Paris agreement on climate change and the Iran nuclear deal through its final months, the White House said on Wednesday after the presidential election victory of Republican Donald Trump. 'This administration will be committed to implementing those policies through January 20th, and we will live up to the commitments that we have made in each of those areas as we do so,' White House spokesman Josh Earnest said at a news briefing. Advertisement
'I saw the pain on the faces of those women. And one of the women said to me, and I'll never forget, 'We have no water. How do you live without water?' ... I'm hearing that all over the world,' she said.
If the United States backs away on adopting clean energy, it also would be handing China the leadership role in a key new industry, she said.
'That's not what so many states, businesses, cities and academic communities and local communities want in the United States,' she said.
She urged Americans upset about the proposed changes in U.S. policy to make their voices heard.
Global emissions of heat-trapping carbon dioxide have flattened out in the past three years.
The latest figures raise hopes that the world is nearing a turning point in the fight against climate change.
Researchers say the slowdown in carbon dioxide emissions is mainly caused by declining coal use in China.
But they have cautioned that it is unclear whether this is a permanent trend, or a temporary blip.
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Worldwide emissions of heat-trapping carbon dioxide have flattened out in the past three years raising hopes that the world is nearing a turning point in the fight against climate change
'It is far too early to proclaim we have reached a peak,' said co-author Glen Peters, a senior researcher at the Centre for International Climate and Environmental Research in Oslo.
The study, published in the journal Earth System Science Data, says global carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels and industry is projected to grow by just 0.2 per cent this year.
That would mean emissions have levelled off at about 36 billion metric tons in the past three years even though the world economy has expanded, suggesting the historical bonds between economic gains and emissions growth may have been severed.
'This could be the turning point we have hoped for,' said David Ray, a professor of carbon management at the University of Edinburgh, who was not involved with the study.
'To tackle climate change those bonds must be broken and here we have the first signs that they are at least starting to loosen.'
The slowdown in carbon dioxide emissions is mainly caused by declining coal use in China. But researchers have cautioned that it is unclear whether this is a permanent trend, or a temporary blip (stock image used)
WHAT THE STUDY FOUND The study, published in the journal Earth System Science Data, says global carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels and industry is projected to grow by just 0.2 per cent this year. That would mean emissions have levelled off at about 36 billion metric tons in the past three years even though the world economy has expanded, suggesting the historical bonds between economic gains and emissions growth may have been severed. The authors of the study attributed the slowdown mainly to a decrease in Chinese coal consumption since 2012. Advertisement
The authors of the study attributed the slowdown mainly to a decrease in Chinese coal consumption since 2012.
Coal is a major source of carbon dioxide emissions.
Chinese emissions were down 0.7 per cent in 2015 and are projected to fall 0.5 per cent in 2016, the researchers said, though noting that Chinese energy statistics have been plagued by inconsistencies.
Mr Peters said it remains unclear whether the Chinese slowdown was due to a restructuring of the Chinese economy or a sign of economic instability.
'Nevertheless, the unexpected reductions in Chinese emissions give hope that the world's biggest emitter can deliver much more ambitious emission reductions,' he said.
A girl carries a sign saying 'Climate justice for all' as she takes part in a protest against climate change coinciding with the Climate Conference taking place in Marrakech
WILL DONALD TRUMP IMPACT CO2 EMISSIONS? The election of Donald Trump as president of the United States the world's No. 2 carbon polluter could also have an impact. US emissions fell 2.6 per cent last year and are projected to drop 1.7 per cent this year, as natural gas and renewables displace coal in power generation, the study showed. But it's unclear whether those reductions will continue under Trump, who has pledged to roll back the Obama administration's environmental policies, including the Clean Power Plan, which was meant to reduce carbon pollution from US power plants. Advertisement
China, which accounts for almost 30 per cent of global carbon emissions, pledged to peak its emissions around 2030 as part of the global climate pact adopted in Paris last year.
Many analysts say China's peak is likely to come much earlier and may already have occurred.
'The continued decline of China's carbon dioxide emissions, combined with knowledge of structural change in the energy system, does indicate that carbon dioxide emissions from China may have peaked, however a few more years of data is needed to confirm this,' said Bill Hare, of Climate Analytics, a separate group that monitors global emissions.
But even if Chinese emissions have stabilized, emissions in India and other developing countries could push global emissions higher again.
India's emissions rose five per cent in 2015, the study said.
The election of Donald Trump as president of the US the world's No. 2 carbon polluter could also have an impact.
US emissions fell 2.6 per cent last year and are projected to drop 1.7 per cent this year, as natural gas and renewables displace coal in power generation, the study showed.
But it's unclear whether those reductions will continue under Trump, who has pledged to roll back the Obama administration's environmental policies, including the Clean Power Plan, which was meant to reduce carbon pollution from US power plants.
Other researchers not affiliated with the study stressed that it's not enough for global emissions to stabilise; they need to drop toward zero for the world to meet the goals of the Paris deal.
'Worryingly, the reductions pledged by the nations under the Paris Agreement are not sufficient to achieve this,' said climate scientist Chris Rapley of University College London.
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Two people are brought into a city hospital on the same night after being found walking around completely naked.
Were not ashamed of our bodies, one explains matter-of-factly, when questioned about their outlandish behaviour.
A mother gives birth to a baby en caul, that is, still moving around in its amniotic sac.
Nurses mutter that this means the healthy child will have psychic powers.
The satellite is orbiting as close to Earth as it has done for almost 70 years tonight, but Monday is expected to be the best evening for capturing a rare close-up of the moon
Although the countryside is the best place to see the night's sky in all its glory, there was still some stunning scenes over London landmarks such as the Eye
There was also a stunning scene behind Canary Wharf as the supermoon emerged this evening when the Sun went down
The capital's centre, including The Gherkin, can be seen here underneath the supermoon. Gazers in the south-east of England in particular are advised to get out tonight while they can still enjoy a clear night
The moons orbit is elliptical rather than perfectly circular, so as the moon moves around the Earth it is sometimes a little bit closer and sometimes a bit further away from us. It is seen here above the 02 Arena, south-east London
The supermoon can be seen here through the clouds behind the Emirates Air Line cable car, in London's Docklands
A funfair ride spins around in London, with the enlarged lunar shining in the background
A commerical jet flies in front of the moon on its approach to Heathrow airport in west London on. The moon can be seen in incredible detail behind it
In prisons and on the streets, men become more fractious and prone to violence.
Meanwhile, vets report a huge increase in the number of dogs and cats being ferried in with injuries. In Africa, its people who are the victims as lions go on the rampage.
WHAT IS A SUPERMOON? Supermoons are new or full moons that occur when the orbit of the moon brings it particularly close to Earth. For this reason, it appears to be bigger than normal - by about 10 per cent. We usually get between four and six supermoons a year, but this November is special because the moon will be closer to Earth than at any time this century, and we won't get as near again until 2034. Advertisement
Logic dictates there could be no possible link between such disparate events and trends, and yet some suggest the connection is right up there in the sky all of them occurring under the baleful glare of a full moon.
Such strange tales loom particularly large tonight as were due to see the biggest, brightest supermoon or perigee full moon, to give it its technical name in nearly 69 years, as the Moon passes closer to the Earth than it normally does on its oval-shaped orbit.
According to Nasa, this will be especially super, as its the closest full moon to Earth since 1948 and we wont see another like it until November 25, 2034.
The Moon should appear 30 per cent brighter and 14 per cent bigger than when it is furthest away from us (known as a micro moon).
The supermoon will reach its closest point to Earth at 11.23am today. But the best chance to see it is, unsurprisingly, around sunset.
However, Met Office meteorologist Marco Petagna warns those in the South and West may be disappointed because of cloudy weather. Those in the East and North may manage to catch a glimpse.
The best areas for cloud breaks will be in the East and on high ground, particularly the East of Scotland, North-East of England and eastern parts of Wales, he says.
Spectacular photographs of the biggest supermoon for generations are already being captured, such as Whitby Abbey in North Yorkshire - and the best is yet to come
Other photographers took the opportunity to clamber up rural landscapes like Beacon Hill near Loughborough to catch a glimpse of the phenomenon
The differences in apparent size and brightness amount to few percent but they can enhance the already beautiful sight of the full moon, pictured here rising near Glastonbury
The supermoon was also seen on the other side of the Atlantic - pictured here above the US Capitol building
Many things will be changing at the White House over the next few months. Barack Obama was at least able to see the moon closer than any president will for 18 years
Its glow can be seen here over the Manhattan Bridge, New York. It could be even bigger tomorrow night if the clouds can stay out of the way
We usually get between four and six supermoons a year, but this one is special because the moon will be closer to Earth than at any time this century, and we won't get as near again until 2034 (again seen here above Washington DC)
Residents in Washington DC (left) Longport, New Jersey (right), were also able to catch a good glimpse of the phenomenon
The moon will have a stronger than usual effect on tides due to its proximity and greater gravitational pull, although the difference is likely to be just a few inches.
So, could this most foreboding of lunar phases also affect our behaviour and not just be the stuff of fairy tales and horror films?
Centuries of folklore have enshrined the full moon as the time for witchcraft and sorcery. Werewolves turned when they saw one, mad people howled at them and they were blamed for all manner of wild behaviour. Indeed, the word lunacy comes from the Latin name for the Moon and its goddess, Luna.
James Bond creator Ian Fleming was not the only writer to exploit the mythology when, in From Russia With Love, he created a villain, assassin Red Grant, who felt compelled to kill at the full moon.
With all this in mind, scientists have traditionally been wary of even daring to suggest that a full moon really does affect humans and animals, for fear of being declared lunatics themselves.
And yet, the belief persists that there is a connection. An investigation by the Wall Street Journal found that, in hospitals across the U.S., medical staff are convinced that full moons are harbingers of chaos in their emergency rooms and delivery wards.
Doctors and nurses said full moon nights prompted a surge in patient admissions, particularly involving psychotic episodes, as well as strange injuries and women going into labour under unusual circumstances.
In addition to the caul baby and naked night-time street wanderers, a hospital nurse in San Antonio, Texas, recalled a full moon night when so many high school students were rushed in all suffering from food poisoning that the hospital ran out of beds to put them in.
Some hospitals put more staff on at full moon and ban doctors from taking days off.
John Becher, an A&E doctor in New Jersey and Philadelphia for 40 years, became so convinced by the phenomenon that he didnt want to work on full moon nights.
HOW TO PHOTOGRAPH A SUPERMOON PERFECTLY Bill Ingalls, Nasa's senior photographer Bill Ingalls, Nasa's senior photographer, says composition is key. 'Don't make the mistake of photographing the moon by itself with no reference to anything,' he said. 'I've certainly done it myself, but everyone will get that shot. 'Instead, think of how to make the image creativethat means tying it into some land-based object. 'It can be a local landmark or anything to give your photo a sense of place.' Is it hopeless to attempt a supermoon image with a smartphone camera? Ingalls says, it's all relative. 'For me, it would be maddening and frustrating - yet it may be a good challenge, actually. You're not going to get a giant moon in your shot, but you can do something more panoramic, including some foreground that's interesting. 'Think about being in an urban area where it's a little bit brighter.' To get the right light balance of the moon on newer iPhones and other smartphones, 'Tap the screen and hold your finger on the object (in this case, the moon) to lock the focus. 'Then slide your finger up or down to darken or lighten the exposure.' For digital SLR photography, Ingalls uses the daylight white balance setting for capturing moonlight, since sunlight is being reflected. Advertisement
Many medical staff had their own theories for why the full moon affects us. Michelle Schusky, a veteran radiologist, put it down to the composition of the human body. Our bodies are 70 per cent water and, because the moon moves the oceans, it moves the water in your body people flip out, she said.
Sceptics have suggested they are victims of so-called confirmation bias they notice it happens to be a full moon on a night when odd things happen, but ignore the full moon nights that are deadly dull.
For all that, the Suns effect on humans and animals is enormous, giving us the 24-hour circadian rhythm, a cycle that dominates so many creatures existence everything from appetite and mood to sleep quality. That is well accepted in conventional science. Is it really so irrational to assume that the Moon influences us, too?
Professor Ernest Naylor, a marine biologist at Bangor University in Wales, thinks its perfectly reasonable. In his recent book, Moonstruck, he argues that scientists are too frightened of ridicule to study Moon-related phenomena. He says that many marine animals, such as crabs, lobsters, oysters, midges and some fish, live in synchronicity with the Moon, not the Sun.
Their daily behaviour, movement and habits are aligned with the lunar day, which, by one definition, is 24 hours and 50 minutes. Since the movements of the Sun are embedded in our genes, it wouldnt be surprising if there are Moon-related genes in our system, he told me.
Nobody has yet unequivocally demonstrated this [in humans], but Moon-related rhythms certainly occur in other animals and plants.
Nevertheless, some claims made about the effect of full moons do stretch credibility. In 2009, a Tory MP told the Commons that surgeons refused to operate during full moons because they knew blood wouldnt clot (the Royal College of Surgeons suggested the claim was nonsense).
However, some studies support the idea of the influence of the full moon. An analysis of 12,000 cases at a busy animal medical centre in the U.S. found cats and dogs were admitted with injuries far more frequently on full moons 28 per cent higher for dogs and 23 per cent for cats.
Casualty departments in the UK registered twice as many visits from people with animal bites during full moons than on other nights, according to a 2001 survey in the British Medical Journal.
African lions are more likely to attack humans immediately after a full moon, found another study (though researchers reported that lions had trouble catching prey when the Moon was at its brightest, making them all the more hungry by the time the full moon had waned).
The moons orbit is elliptical rather than perfectly circular, so as the moon moves around the Earth it is sometimes a little bit closer and sometimes a bit further away from us (pictured here above Sydney, Australia)
The supermoon rises above the Motherland Calls statue on top of the Manayev Kurgan commemorating the WWII Battle of Stalingrad
The supermoon in all its glory as Brazilians flock to a beach in Rio de Janeiro to see it shimmering in the night's sky
The silhouettes of two men can be seen posing for surreal-looking images in Istanbul, Turkey, where one man looks as though he is floating
The supermoon rises above Hefer Valley, in Israel, this evening as photographers all over the world took the opportunity to capture it
And it was not just Brits who were getting in on the act, with the supermoon also snapped above Russia, such as this example over a statue of Lenin
The moon behind this castle in Madrid appears up to 14 per cent bigger and 30 per cent brighter than an average full moon
The moon rises behind a sculpture of Don Quixote De La Mancha in Munera, near Albacete, Spain
People, too, can become more aggressive around the full moon, according to research by Sussex Police. In 2007, Brighton police chiefs announced they would put more officers on the streets on summer full moon nights. As far afield as Poland and the U.S., officers claim to have experienced the same unsettling trend.
A three-month psychological study of 1,200 prison inmates in Leeds found that violent attacks increased during the days on either side of a full moon.
Menstruation is one area in which many have long detected a lunar influence, but scientific studies have contradicted them, saying the womans monthly menstrual cycle is connected to a full moon only in that both occur once a month.
Sleeplessness, however, is another matter. Some studies found people slept less during a full moon, even when they couldnt see it and were not aware that one was present.
In April, a Canadian study of 5,800 children in countries around the world (including the UK) found that, on average, they slept five minutes less on full moon nights.
Yes, it was a small amount of sleep loss, but still significant, said the study, which called for further research into whether there is science behind the myth about full moons affecting certain people.
Sex with robots is predicted to become so popular that it will eventually overtake human intercourse by around 2050.
An expert has revealed that robot sex will be 'mind blowing', and the bots could even improve your skills in the bedroom.
While there have been concerns that the sexbots will replace human relationships, Matt McMullen, CEO of RealDoll, a sex doll manufacturer, suggests that this is not the case.
He believes robots will become an option for people looking to spice up their love lives.
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While there have been concerns that the sexbots will replace human relationships, Matt McMullen, CEO of RealDoll, a sex doll manufacturer, suggests that this is not the case. He believes robots will become an option for people looking to spice up their love lives
HOW SEX WILL CHANGE A report earlier this year claims: By 2030, most people will have some form of virtual sex as casually as they browse porn today. By 2035 the majority of people will own sex toys that interact with virtual reality sex. 'Sexbots' will start to appear in high-income, very wealthy households as soon as 2025. Sex with robots will be more popular than human-human sex in 2050. Love and the act of sex is set to become increasingly separate, with relationships increasingly becoming based on more than just sex. Advertisement
McMullen spoke to the Daily Star about what sex with robots will really be like.
His San Francisco-based firm currently sells realistic sex dolls for around $5,000 (3,857) a unit.
It recently launched a project harnessing AI to create sexbots that have customisable personalities and can talk to their owners in romantic as well as entraining ways.
McMullen said: 'It's going to be an amazing new experience that no one has ever had before.
'We're trying to create the desire to have sex beyond the physical.
'In order for people to find themselves attracted to the AI she's really funny, she makes me laugh, she has the same interests as me.
'So then blokes want to take it to the next level to give them that feeling "I'd really like to have sex with her."'
Mr McMullen says that sex with robots could even help to improve skills in the bedroom, by making people less afraid to be adventurous.
He said: 'Having sex with the robot is only going to help you with your skills.
'It will get you to last longer in bed, try different positions and be more adventurous.'
But Mr McMullen suggests interactions with robots will go beyond sex, and men could even seduce, charm and chat the sex robot.
Interactions with robots will go beyond sex, and men could even seduce, charm and chat the sex robot. Pictured is the Roxxxy sex robot, with Douglas Hines, its creator
He said: 'People might have sexual fantasies about bondage or threesomes or specific fetishes but this is a whole new thing altogether.
'People will think, I've had sex with women now I'm going to have the chance to have sex with a robot.
'To actually engage in a conversation with an AI in its own right is really cool.
'But to throw in the possibility you can seduce the AI and have sex with a robot I think it's an intriguing idea to most people.
THE COST OF SEXBOTS REVEALED Neal Slateford, co-owner of online sex toy retailer Lovehoney, sees a future where sexbots are mainstream. 'The technology is developing all the time, and the early robotic toys they have created are still out of the price range of most people - costing around 6,000 ($7,777),' he said. 'Prices will inevitably come down, and we envisage selling mass market robotic toys in around three years' time. They could be really brilliant products - and let's face it, it is the safest way to have a threesome with your partner and not end up in the divorce courts.' San Francisco-based RealDoll currently sells realistic sex dolls for around $5,000 (3,857) a unit. It recently launched a project harnessing AI to create sexbots that have customisable personalities and can talk to their owners in romantic as well as entraining ways. Advertisement
But other experts have expressed concerns that sex with robots could become addictive.
Joel Snell, a robotics expert from Kirkwood College in Iowa, said: 'Robotic sex may become addictive.
'Sexbots would always be available and could never say no, so addictions would be easy to feed.
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The biggest supermoon in living memory will grace our skies tonight.
But a cloudy outlook across the UK and other countries could obstruct the once-in-a-lifetime view for people around the world.
To see your chances of spotting the historic supermoon, check your location on this interactive map which gives forecasts and monitors weather and cloud coverage in real-time.
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BEST PLACES TO SEE THE SUPERMOON IN THE UK On Monday morning, much of the Earth appeared covered in a blanket of cloud, and for some this looks set to continue into the evening. The whole of the UK looks set to be covered in a cloak of cloud cover for most of the night, according to the Met Office. 'Monday evening and overnight Monday night is the best chance to spot it in Europe,' according to a Met Office spokesman. Although the sky will be cloudy, there are likely to be cloud breaks in Eastern Scotland, North East England and East Wales, he said. Advertisement
Called MeteoEarth, the 3D globe shows forecasts and live weather across the world.
Selecting the 'Cloud Cover' icon on the left hand side will reveal which parts of the world will have the clearest view of the moon this evening.
MeteoEarth.com was launched two years ago by MeteoGroup, headquartered in London, one of Europe's leading private weather companies.
Data is pulled live from a forecast model by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts.
On Monday morning, much of the Earth appeared covered in a blanket of cloud, and for some this looks set to continue into the evening.
The whole of the UK looks set to be covered in a cloak of cloud cover for most of the night, according to Meteo Earth and the Met Office.
A Met Office spokesman said: 'Monday evening and overnight Monday night is the best chance to spot it in Europe.'
Although the sky will be cloudy, he said there are likely to be cloud breaks in Eastern Scotland, North East England and East Wales.
Cloud cover would stop the moon from appearing as bright as it might otherwise, and if it is thick enough could block the view entirely.
Many European countries will also have an obstructed view.
Meanwhile, people in the US look set to enjoy a clearer view when the sun goes down.
Further east, those in northern India will have the best cloud-free view, according to the Meteo Earth predictions.
Some north west and south eastern states are predicted to have heavy cloud cover today at the time the supermoon is expected to peak, including Florida, Virginia and Oregon, according to forecasts issued by the NOAA.
But for the rest of the US the cloud cover is forecast to be minimal.
Experts suggest that, provided that the sky is clear and you have a view to the south, the moon will be clearly visible. For an even better view, try viewing from a spot with as little light pollution as possible. Participants in a Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb walk down the western span of the famous Australian landmark as the supermoon rises
Today the moon will be the closest to Earth it's been since January 1948. During the event, it will appear up to 14 per cent bigger and 30 per cent brighter than an average full moon. The supermoon as seen from Northen Shropshire last night
The whole of the UK looks set to be covered in a cloak of cloud cover for most of the night, according to Meteo Earth (pictured left forecast at 8:10 PM GMT) and the Met Office. Many European countries will also have an obstructed view. Further east (shown right) those in countries surrounding Iran, Pakistan and northern India will have the best cloud-free view
South America and some north west and south eastern states in the US are predicted to have heavy cloud cover when the sun sets (pictured). But for the rest of the US, including the central states, the cloud cover is forecast to be minimal
WHAT IS A SUPERMOON? Supermoons are new or full moons that occur when the orbit of the moon brings it particularly close to Earth. For this reason, it appears to be bigger than normal - by about 10 per cent. We usually get between four and six supermoons a year, but this November is special because the moon will be closer to Earth than at any time this century, and we won't get as near again until 2034. Advertisement
WHEN CAN YOU SEE IT?
The supermoon will arrive today. It will be the second supermoon of the year, the first having already happened on October 16, and the third expected on December 14.
At 8.09 PM GMT (3.09 PM ET) the moon will be the closest it has been to the Earth since 1948, at a distance of around 217,000 miles (350,000 km).
This will be when the moon is at its biggest and brightest during the day.
But the whole of the UK looks set to be covered in a cloak of cloud cover around 8PM GMT, according to the Met Office.
Even if your view is not clear, Slooh Observatory will be doing a live broadcast.
'I've been telling people to go out at night on either Sunday or Monday night to see the supermoon,' said Noah Petro, deputy project scientist for NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) mission.
'The difference in distance from one night to the next will be very subtle, so if it's cloudy on Sunday, go out on Monday. Any time after sunset should be fine.
'Since the moon is full, it'll rise at nearly the same time as sunset, so I'd suggest that you head outside after sunset, or once it's dark and the moon is a bit higher in the sky.
'You don't have to stay up all night to see it, unless you really want to!'
At 8.09 PM GMT (3.09 PM ET) the moon will be the closest it has been to the Earth since 1948, at a distance of around 217,000 miles (350,000 km). This will be when the moon is at its biggest and brightest during the day. But the whole of the UK looks set to be covered in a cloak of cloud cover around 8PM GMT, according to the Met Office
Some north west and south eastern states in the US are predicted to have heavy cloud cover today at the time the supermoon is expected to peak, including Florida, Virginia and Oregon, according to forecasts issued by the NOAA (pictured)
Supermoons are new or full moons that occur when the orbit of the moon brings it particularly close to Earth. For this reason, it appears to be bigger than normal - by about 10 per cent
FIVE SUPERMOON FACTS It was not until 1979 that Astrologer Richard Nolle first defined the supermoon, which is now a widely-used term, as 'a new or full moon which occurs with the moon at or near (within 90 per cent of) its closest approach to Earth in a given orbit'. The moon has to be 226,000 miles (363,711 km) away from the Earth to be considered 'super' which normally happens only once every 14 months. However, there will be no supermoons in 2017. Because of its close proximity to the Earth, the moon's surface appears a lot bigger when a supermoon occurs, which makes for stunning photography. A winter supermoon is supersized, as the Earth is closest to the sun in December each year, which means its gravity pulls the moon closer to the planet making it appear brighter and larger than those that occur during the rest of the year. Supermoons will get smaller in the future as the moon is slowly propelling itself out of Earth's orbit, moving 1.5 inches (3.8cm) further from the Earth each year. Advertisement
WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO VIEW IT?
Experts suggest that, provided that the sky is clear and you have a view to the south, the moon will be clearly visible.
'Like any full moon it will rise above the ground in the East at sunset and reach its highest point in the sky at midnight before descending to set with the rising sun,' Colin Stuart, astronomy author, told MailOnline.
'This is the same for everyone on Earth.'
For an even better view, try viewing from a spot with as little light pollution as possible.
The extraordinary visual effect of the moon is more pronounced when viewed near the horizon.
'The moon will look particularly big when seen close to the ground. It isn't actually bigger, but due to an effect called the moon Illusion it appears like it is,' Mr Stuart said.
'So if you can view it rising from a location with an unobstructed Eastern horizon free from trees and buildings you're more likely to see it at its 'biggest'.'
'You don't need any special equipment to see it the supermoon just your eyes and a clear, cloud-free view of the sky,' Dr Marek Kukula, Public Astronomer at the Royal Observatory Greenwich told MailOnline.
'The moon usually appears most impressive when it's close to the horizon, so look out for it as it rises in the eastern sky around 6pm on the evenings of November 13th and 14th.'
'Many people these days don't have a connection with the night sky because light pollution ruins our view of space from built up areas,' Mr Stuart said.
'Something as easy to see as an unusually bright full moon is a great way to spark people's interest in astronomy and think about how our solar system works.
'Hopefully that will make them curious about seeing more of the wonders of the universe for themselves.'
Shadows of two men seen in front of the supermoon in Turkey. The sight of a perigee moon happens when the moon is full and makes its closest approach to Earth
The moon's orbit is elliptical rather than perfectly circular, so as the moon moves around the Earth it is sometimes a little bit closer and sometimes a bit further away from us
WHY WILL THE MOON APPEAR LARGER?
The moon's orbit is elliptical rather than perfectly circular, so as the moon moves around the Earth it is sometimes a little bit closer and sometimes a bit further away from us.
'If a full moon happens to occur when the Moon is also at its closest point then it will look slightly larger and brighter than usual this is what is popularly known as a 'supermoon',' Dr Marek Kukula, Public Astronomer at the Royal Observatory Greenwich told MailOnline.
'It's a natural part of the moon's cycle and happens around once a year.
'The differences in apparent size and brightness amount to few percent but they can enhance the already beautiful sight of the full moon, making a supermoon worth looking up for.'
For this reason, it appears to be bigger than normal - by about 10 per cent.
We usually get between four and six supermoons a year, but this November is special because the moon will be closer to Earth than at any time this century, and we won't get as near again until 2034.
During the event, it will appear up to 14 per cent bigger and 30 per cent brighter than an average full moon.
A winter supermoon is supersized, because the Earth is closest to the sun in December each year, which means its gravity pulls the moon closer to the planet making it appear brighter and larger than those that occur during the rest of the year.
The best time to view a super moon is when the moon is low on the horizon where 'an illusion will occur that makes it look unnaturally larger,' according to AccuWeather.
Since the moon's orbit is elliptical, one side (perigee) is about 30,000 miles (48, 280 km) closer to Earth than the other (apogee).
An American Airlines passenger plane passes in front of the moon, as seen from Whittier, California yesterday. Monday morning's supermoon will be the closet a full moon has been to the Earth since January 26, 1948
The supermoon captured yesterday at an old military airfield in Denmark. Always surrounded by an aura of mystery, the moon and its possible influence over human behaviour has been object of ancestral fascination and mythical speculation for centuries
DOES A SUPERMOON AFFECT OUR HEALTH? THE 'LUNATIC' EFFECT Always surrounded by an aura of mystery, the moon and its possible influence over human behaviour has been object of ancestral fascination and mythical speculation for centuries. While the full moon can't turn people into werewolves, some people do accuse it of causing a bad night's sleep or creating physical and mental alterations. Dr Niall McCrae, a mental health researcher at King's College London, has spent years studying the phenomenon. He told MailOnline he was first inspired to write his book 'The Moon and Madness' because looking back through archives he found a lack of research into the link between a full moon and mental health issues in the early 19th century. It appeared people were trying to distance themselves from the folklore, he said. But, in stark contrast to this, mental health nurses Dr McCrae spoke to told of strong beliefs that at the time of a full moon, patients were more restless and agitated. He said years ago, when mental health hospitals were buildings far away from cities placed on hills, with no curtains, the idea of a full moon affecting their sleep is very plausible. Once one patient was woken by the light from the moon, they could become anxious or agitated and disturb other patients, causing a scene. 'In this environment, it's not unbelievable that moonlight can be a disturbing factor,' he said. In the Bible, people described as 'lunatics' who fell to the ground, shaking, during a full moon might have been suffering from epileptic fits, he added. Nowadays, he says, mental health care has changed and with different treatment, along with medication and artificial lighting, patients are less likely to be affected by the light from the moon. To establish if lunar phases affect humans, an international group of researchers studied children in to see if their sleeping patterns changed or if there were any differences in their daily activities. The research studied a total of 5,812 children from five continents, and the results were published in May this year. The researchers found, in general, nocturnal sleep duration around full moon compared to new moon reported an average decrease of five minutes (or a one per cent variant). Another study found healthy adults slept for 20 minutes less time during a full moon, Dr McCrae told MailOnline. Advertisement
DOES THE MOON AFFECT THE WEATHER?
Some argue the moon has an impact on the weather, but the evidence shows this is not significant.
'The weather isn't affected by the moon,' Dr Marek Kukula told MailOnline.
'However the moon does affect the tides and, because the moon will be at its closest point to the Earth, high and low tides may be slightly more extreme than usual around the date of the supermoon - but only by a few centimetres.
Dr David Harland, space historian and author, said: 'It's possible that the moon may be a kilometre or two closer to Earth than normal at a perigee, but it's an utterly insignificant event. '
Previous supermoons took place in 1955, 1974, 1992 and 2005 - all years that had extreme weather events, conspiracy theorists say.
The tsunami that killed hundreds of thousands of people in Indonesia happened two weeks before the January 2005 supermoon. And on Christmas Day 1974, Cyclone Tracy laid waste to Darwin, Australia.
But Pete Wheeler of the International Centre for Radio Astronomy greeted warnings of an impending apocalypse with scepticism before the supermoon in 2011.
'There will be no earthquakes or volcanoes erupting, unless they are to happen anyway,' he told news.com.au at the time.
'Earth will experience just a lower than usual low tide and a higher than usual high tide around the time of the event, but nothing to get excited about.'
During a full moon, the sun and the moon are pulling on Earth from opposite sides - making the chances of any dramatic tidal events unlikely.
While the full moon can't turn people into werewolves, some people do accuse it of causing a bad night's sleep or creating physical and mental alterations. Image of the supermoon over Brisbane on Monday
'WEREWOLF' BIRDS HUNT USING LUNAR TIDES Myth and folklore feature tales of werewolves being affected by phases of the moon, and it appears this behaviour isn't as far-fetched as it may seem. Coastal wading birds shape their lives around the tides and new research shows different species follow prey cycles tied to our lunar satellite. Experts now plan to study how their prey responds to such tidal forces to learn more about this behaviour. Advertisement
DOES A SUPERMOON CAUSE MOOD SWINGS OR LACK OF SLEEP?
While the full moon can't turn people into werewolves, some people do accuse it of causing a bad night's sleep or creating physical and mental alterations.
To establish if lunar phases affect humans, an international group of researchers studied children in May this year to see if their sleeping patterns changed or if there were any differences in their daily activities.
The research studied a total of 5,812 children from five continents.
The children came from a wide range of economic and sociocultural levels, and variables such as age, sex, highest parental education, day of measurement, body mass index score, nocturnal sleep duration, level of physical activity and total sedentary time were considered.
Data collection took place over 28 months, which is equivalent to the same number of lunar cycles.
These were then subdivided into three lunar phases: full moon, half-moon and new moon.
The findings obtained in the study revealed that in general, nocturnal sleep duration around full moon compared to new moon reported an average decrease of five minutes (or a one per cent variant).
No other activity behaviours were substantially modified.
'Our study provides compelling evidence that the moon does not seem to influence people's behaviour,' said Dr Jean-Philippe Chaput, from the Eastern Ontario Research Institute.
Another study found healthy adults slept for 20 minutes less time during a full moon.
Historically, full moons have been linked to a lack of sleep because of the bright light that shines from them.
WHY ARE WE SO FASCINATED BY THE SUPERMOON?
Always surrounded by an aura of mystery, the moon and its possible influence over human behaviour has been object of ancestral fascination and mythical speculation for centuries.
Myth and folklore feature tales of werewolves being affected by phases of the moon.
'Folklore and even certain instances of occupational lore suggest that mental health issues or behaviours of humans and animals are affected by lunar phases,' Dr Chaput said.
'Whether there is science behind the myth or not, the moon mystery will continue to fascinate civilisations in the years to come,' he added.
One study found healthy adults slept for 20 minutes less time during a full moon. Historically, full moons have been linked to a lack of sleep because of the bright light that shines from them. Image of the supermoon by Albert Dros
News / National
by Stephen Jakes
Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko has threatened business in Matabeleland North for operating in the province and failing to attend the ruling Zanu-PF fundraising meeting in Victoria Falls which was meant to boast the party's coffers ahead of the conference set for Masvingo next month.A hand full of business operators attended the fundraising gig held in the resort town over the weekend amid fury by the VP who openly expressed discontent ver their conduct."There are a lot of business or companies operating in this province and we can not have companies operating here failing to plough back to the society," he said.The threats come amid reports that Zanu-PF officials and traditional leaders in other parts of the country are already forcing villagers to contribute $0, 50 each towards the Zanu-PF conference.The Matabeleland North provincial fund raising dinner was supposed to raise $50,000 towards the party's 16th annual National Peoples Conference to be held next month in Masvingo.The dinner tables at Elephant Hills Hotel were priced at $20,000 for the platinum category, $15,000 for gold, $10,000 and $5,000 for bronze and silver respectively.
This year could be the warmest since records began, thanks to a strong El Nino and fossil fuel emissions, the UN's weather agency has revealed.
According to the World Meteorological Orgnaization (WMO) global warming has stoked more floods, fires and rising sea levels.
It made the claims today at climate change talks in Marrakesh, overshadowed by Donald Trump's election win.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has said that 2016 will be the warmest since records began in the late 19th century, with average surface temperatures 1.2C (2.2F) above pre-industrial times, driven by a strong El Nino and man-made carbon emissions
President-elect Donald Trump has called climate change a hoax and a source in his transition team says he is seeking quick ways to pull the US out of the 2015 Paris Agreement, which aims to shift the world economy away from fossil fuels towards renewable energy.
The WMO said this year would be the warmest since records began in the late 19th century, with average surface temperatures 1.2C (2.2F) above pre-industrial times.
Sixteen of the 17 hottest years recorded have been in this century.
'Another year. Another record,' WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas said in a statement in Marrakesh, Morocco, where almost 200 nations are discussing ways to slow climate change.
The heat, with impacts such as melting Greenland ice and damage to Australia's Great Barrier Reef, was stoked by an El Nino weather event in the Pacific early in the year and by man-made greenhouse gases, mainly from burning fossil fuels.
'The extra heat from the powerful El Nino event has disappeared. The heat from global warming will continue,' he said.
This year has seen severe drought hit some regions in the US, with California baking in the heat as crops feeling the strain and lakes dry out
HAS GLOBAL WARMING SLOWED DOWN? Many reports have emerged recently of a slow down in the increasing rate of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Data show that the rate of growth has been lower than expected, which scientists attribute to a number of factors, including carbon hungry plants soaking up CO2 from the atmosphere. Figures released this week by climate scientists also show the slowdown could be explained by some of the world's largest nations weaning themselves off of coal - such as China. However, while the rate of increase has slowed, the data show the overall trend is one of average temperatures rising. There is also the threat posed by melting permafrost, which could pump tons of methane - a potent greenhouse gas - into the atmosphere, exacerbating the warming. Environmentalists and climate scientists are also concerned that US president-elect, Donald Trump, will backtrack on agreements to curb the country's emissions, made in Paris last year. The Paris Agreement set a target of a global average increase of no more than 2C above pre-industrial levels. It also includes promises from wealthy nations and the world's biggest polluters to fund protective measures in regions expected to be worst hit by climate change, including island nations and areas of the developing world. Advertisement
The Geneva-based WMO said it was 'very likely' that 2016 would be the hottest, barring a freak chill in coming weeks.
The Paris deal, backed by almost 200 nations including the United States but rejected by Trump, has an overriding goal of limiting the rise in temperatures to 'well below' 2C (3.6F) above pre-industrial times, ideally 1.5C (2.7F).
Earlier today, a scientific report projected that world carbon dioxide emissions were expected to stay flat for the third year in a row in 2016 and that US emissions would fall by 1.7 per cent in 2016, driven by declines in coal consumption.
President Barack Obama has made fighting climate change a key policy and the US was the driving force behind the design of the Paris Agreement.
'Because of climate change, the occurrence and impact of extreme events has risen,' said Taalas.
'Once in a generation' heat waves and flooding are becoming more regular. Sea level rise has increased exposure to storm surges associated with tropical cyclones,' he said.
The most damaging weather event in 2016 was Hurricane Matthew, which killed more than 500 people in Haiti, it said.
The Yangtze basin in China had its worst summer floods since 1999, killing 310 people and causing an estimated $14 billion (11.1 bn) in damage.
Record daily temperatures were recorded from South Africa to Thailand.
Canada had its worst recorded wildfire in May around Fort McMurray, Alberta.
Data from the UN refugee agency said 19.2 million people were displaced by weather, water, climate and hazards such as earthquakes in 2015, more than twice as many as for conflict and violence, it said.
New analysis suggests the C ring is between 15 and 100 million years old
Its icy rings make Saturn one of the most memorable-looking planets in the solar system.
But despite studying them intensely, researchers are still unsure exactly when the iconic rings formed.
Now a new study suggests the rings were created between 15 to 100 million years ago.
This suggest they may be a chance they formed when dinosaurs roamed the planet between 230 and 65 million years ago, making them billions of years younger than we previously thought.
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They make Saturn one of the most memorable-looking planets in the solar system, and scientists have been fascinated by the planet's icy rings for years. Now a new study suggests the iconic rings could be billions of years younger than we previously thought
HOW SATURN GOT ITS RINGS Research published last month suggests the clumps of rock and ice that make up the rings we consider almost synonymous with the planet now, actually started out life as different planets altogether. The study suggests the rings of Saturn, along with those surrounding Neptune and Uranus, are made up of pieces of Pluto-like dwarf planets that strayed too close to the giant worlds long ago. Advertisement
None of the other existing origin scenarios predict the rings are any younger than 3.8 billion years old.
Researchers at Cornell University studied an almost forgotten set of data, collected 10 years ago by Nasa's Cassini mission.
The rings are predominantly composed of water ice particles, up to several feet in size, but these particles are continually 'polluted' by bombarding micrometeoroids.
'Water ice comprises the bulk of Saturn's rings, yet it is the small fraction of non-icy material that is arguably more valuable in revealing clues about the system's origin and age,' the researchers wrote in a new study, published in the journal Icarus.
In the study, Cornell's Zhimeng Zhang and co-authors studied a set of data collected early in Cassini's mission.
The instruments used measured the entire ring composition, rather just the surfaces' icy layers.
Saturn's C ring is the most 'polluted' due to its relative low mass, making it easier to acquire a higher proportion of non-icy material.
In the study, Cornell's Zhimeng Zhang and co-authors studied a set of data collected early in Cassini's mission. Artist's impression of Cassini pictured
'This makes the C ring ideal for investigating ring contamination and piecing together age and history,' Zhang told SciNews.
After sifting through reams of data, the authors showed most regions in the C ring contained between 1 and 2 per cent rocky silicates.
Combining this with estimates of the micrometeoroid flux places the C ring somewhere between 15 and 100 million years old, billions of years younger than expected.
'None of the current origin scenarios predict the rings are likely younger than 3.8 billion years old,' said Zhang.
'This will force a rethinking of ring origin models.'
When kids refuse to eat their greens, it might not entirely be their fault.
Humans are hard-wired to choose red food such as meat over green foods like broccoli, according to a new study.
Colour helps us decide whether or not to eat something, the research says, because the first bite really is taken with the eyes.
Humans are hard-wired to choose red food such as meat over green foods like broccoli, according to a new study. Colour helps us decide whether or not to eat something, the research says, because the first bite really is taken with the eyes
EATING WITH OUR EYES Humans are hard-wired to choose red food such as meat over green foods like broccoli, according to a new study. Colour helps us decide whether or not to eat something, the research says, because the first bite really is taken with the eyes. 'According to some theories, our visual system evolved to easily identify particularly nutritious berries, fruits and vegetables from jungle foliage,' said Raffaella Rumiati, Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience and coordinator of the new study. Advertisement
The study, by the International School for Advanced Studies in Trieste, Italy, was published today in the journal Scientific Reports.
It says vision is the main sense we use to guide us in food choices.
'According to some theories, our visual system evolved to easily identify particularly nutritious berries, fruits and vegetables from jungle foliage,' said Raffaella Rumiati, Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience and coordinator of the new study.
'We are visual animals, unlike others, dogs, for example, who depend on their sense of smell.'
'We are particularly efficient at distinguishing red from green.
'It is mainly the colour of food that guides us, and our experiments show how. To date, only a few studies have been focused on the topic.'
'In natural foods, colour is a good predictor of calories,' added Study author Dr Francesco Foroni.
'The redder an unprocessed food is, the more likely it is to be nutritious, while green foods tend to be low in calories.'
Researcher Giulio Pergola added: 'The participants in our experiments judged foods whose colour tended towards red as higher in calories, while the opposite was true for greens.
The study, by the International School for Advanced Studies in Trieste, Italy, was published today in the journal Scientific Reports. It says vision is the main sense we use to guide us in food choices. Green and red apples pictured
WOULD YOU EAT A KALETTE? Kalettes (pictured),are nutty and sweet tasting and are a cross between kale and the traditional sprout A new vegetable has been harvested in time for Christmas as a more appealing alternative to the Brussels sprout. The creations, called 'Kalettes' are nutty and sweet tasting and are a cross between kale and the traditional sprout. The veg, which is sold in mainly 200 gram packs, can be steamed or stir fried in two to three minutes. Farmers have been growing the vegetable for three years and it was previously called 'Flower Sprout'. In the UK, Kalettes are grown by Drysdale, Kettle Produce and Staples Vegetables in the areas traditionally dedicated to brassicas: Lincolnshire, the south west and south east Scotland and Aberdeenshire. Advertisement
'This is also true for processed, or cooked foods, where colour loses its effectiveness as an indicator of calories.'
Prof Rumiati added: 'Cooked foods are always preferred because, compared to natural foods, there is more nutrition for the same quantity.
'With cooked foods, however, the dominance of red over green no longer provides reliable information, which might lead us to believe that the brain would not apply the rule to processed foods.
'On the contrary, it does, which hints at the presence of ancient evolutionary mechanisms from before the introduction of cooking.'
'The preference for red over green is not observed with non-edible objects.
'This means that the colour code of the visual system activates correctly only with food stimuli.'
She said that the findings could even help in the fight against obesity, adding: 'Much is being done today to encourage healthier eating, for example, trying to convince the people to eat foods lower in calories.
'Some countries propose bans on certain types of products, such as carbonated soft drinks and high fat foods.
She was found on a beach on the Menai Straits in
Turtle belongs to one of either two rare species from the Gulf of Mexico
One of the world's rarest tropical turtles is 'lucky to be alive' after being washed up on a chilly Welsh beach thousands of miles away from her tropical home.
The female turtle, part of a rare species usually found swimming in the Gulf of Mexico, is being warmed up by vets at a specialist sea zoo.
Named Menai, she is believed to be either a Kemp's ridley turtle, the rarest sea turtle species in the world, or an Olive ridley, a species which has never before been found in the UK.
One of the world's rarest tropical turtles is 'lucky to be alive' after being washed up on a chilly Welsh beach thousands of miles away from her tropical home. The female turtle, part of a rare species usually found swimming in the Gulf of Mexico, is shown being warmed up by vets
HOW DID MENAI GET THERE? The turtle is thought to have been carried across the Atlantic Ocean by the Gulf Stream together with strong westerly winds. She became stranded on the shore at the Tan-Y-Foel beach on the Menai Straits at Anglesey, North Wales - and has been named Menai by experts looking after it at the Anglesey Sea Zoo. 'It is most likely that the turtle has lost her way on her journey through these warmer seas, possibly due to recent strong wind and currents, as sea turtles are known to travel vast distances,' said a spokeswoman for the Sea Zoo. Advertisement
The two species are difficult to tell apart, but both are usually found in warm waters more than 4,000 miles (6,437km) away, in the waters around Florida and Mexico.
She was found on the shore at the Tan-Y-Foel beach on the Menai Straits at Anglesey, North Wales - and has been named Menai by experts looking after her at the Anglesey Sea Zoo.
The turtle is thought to have been carried across the Atlantic Ocean by the Gulf Stream together with strong westerly winds.
Menai is being rehydrated and gradually warmed, but zoo staff warned that while she was responding well to treatment, she remained in a serious condition and may not survive.
A spokeswoman for the Sea Zoo said: 'The Kemp's ridley turtle is a critically endangered species, being the rarest sea turtle in the world, and the Olive ridley turtle is also extremely rare, and has never previously been recorded as stranding in the UK.
'Both of these endangered turtle species are found in warm and tropical waters as far north as Mexico and the southern part of the USA but neither would be expected to survive in the cooler seas here in the UK.
'Tropical turtles such as the Olive ridley and Kemp's ridley are more commonly found in temperatures of 25-30C and at this time of year our local sea temperatures approximately 8C are far too cold for these tropical species to tolerate.
'It is most likely that the turtle has lost her way on her journey through these warmer seas, possibly due to recent strong wind and currents, as sea turtles are known to travel vast distances.
The turtle, pictured, is thought to have been carried across the Atlantic Ocean by the Gulf Stream together with strong westerly winds
The species turtle, that was found washed up on the beach in North Wales (shown right), is usually found in warm waters more than 4,000 miles (6,437km) away, in the waters around Florida and Mexico (left)
She became stranded on the shore at the Tan-Y-Foel beach on the Menai Straits at Angelsey, North Wales - and has been named Menai by experts looking after her at the Angelsey Sea Zoo (pictured)
A spokeswoman for the Sea Zoo said: 'The cold and windy weather here is unsustainable for such species of turtles to survive, and it is lucky that Menai was found alive'
Menai is being rehydrated and gradually warmed, but zoo staff warned she remained in a serious condition and may not survive
'The cold and windy weather here is unsustainable for such species of turtles to survive, and it is lucky that Menai was found alive, as many of the tropical turtles washed up around the UK are found dead.'
There are only 30 record incidents of Kemp's Ridley turtles being stranded on Irish and British beaches in the past.
Zoo director Frankie Horbo said: 'We were stunned that this magnificent creature was washed up on the beach right outside the sea zoo - it was as if she was asking for our help.
'If she had stranded elsewhere and not been found quickly, she would certainly have died.
'Our staff are working hard to rehabilitate our turtle and we hope that she will survive and be able to be flown back and released in warmer waters once she is strong enough.'
Turtle expert Rod Penrose, of the UK Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme, said the turtle's size was key to its survival.
He said: 'This individual is much larger than any other Kemp's ridley turtle documented as stranding in the UK, previously we have always recorded juveniles here.
'The fact that it is a larger animal has probably contributed to the fact that it is still alive despite the cold temperatures it has experienced.'
U.S. internet companies including Facebook and Amazon have sent President-elect Donald Trump a detailed list of their policy priorities, which includes promoting strong encryption, immigration reform and maintaining liability protections from content that users share on their platforms.
The letter sent on Monday by the Internet Association, a trade group whose 40 members also include Alphabet's Google , Uber and Twitter, represents an early effort to repair the relationship between the technology sector and Trump, who was almost universally disliked and at times denounced in Silicon Valley during the presidential campaign.
'The internet industry looks forward to engaging in an open and productive dialogue,' reads the letter, signed by Michael Beckerman, president of the Internet Association, and seen by Reuters.
Firms including Facebook, Google and Amazon have sent President-elect Donald Trump a detailed list of their policy priorities, which includes promoting encryption and, immigration reform.
WHAT THEY WANT The letter includes support for: Strong encryption in products against efforts by law enforcement agencies to mandate access to data for criminal investigations
Upholding recent reforms to U.S. government surveillance programs that ended the bulk collection of call data by the National Security Agency
Maintaining net neutrality rules that require internet service providers to treat web traffic equally.
Immigration reform to support more high-skilled workers staying in the United States. Advertisement
Some of the policy goals stated in the letter may align with Trump's priorities, including easing regulation on the sharing economy, lowering taxes on profits made from intellectual property and applying pressure on Europe to not erect too many barriers that restrict U.S. internet companies from growing in that market.
Other goals are likely to clash with Trump, who offered numerous broadsides against the tech sector during his campaign.
They include supporting strong encryption in products against efforts by law enforcement agencies to mandate access to data for criminal investigations, upholding recent reforms to U.S. government surveillance programs that ended the bulk collection of call data by the National Security Agency, and maintaining net neutrality rules that require internet service providers to treat web traffic equally.
The association seeks immigration reform to support more high-skilled workers staying in the United States.
DONALD TRUMP'S CLASHES WITH SILICON VALLEY Trump has also urged a boycott of Apple products over the company's refusal to help the Federal Bureau of Investigation unlock an iPhone associated with last year's San Bernardino, California, shootings Trump's often-shifting policy proposals on the campaign trail frequently alarmed tech companies and sometimes elicited public mockery, such as when Trump called for closing off parts of the internet to limit militant Islamist propaganda. Trump has also urged a boycott of Apple products over the company's refusal to help the Federal Bureau of Investigation unlock an iPhone associated with last year's San Bernardino, California, shootings, threatened antitrust action against Amazon, and demanded that tech companies such as Apple manufacture their products in the United States. Advertisement
Though Trump made tougher immigration policies a central theme of his campaign, he has at times shied away from arguing against more H-1B visas for skilled workers, saying in a March debate he was 'softening the position because we need to have talented people in this country.'
While urging support for trade agreements, the letter does not mention the Trans Pacific Partnership, which Trump has repeatedly assailed with claims it was poorly negotiated and would take jobs away from U.S. workers.
The technology sector supported the deal, but members of Congress have conceded since the election it is not going to be enacted.
Trump's often-shifting policy proposals on the campaign trail frequently alarmed tech companies and sometimes elicited public mockery, such as when Trump called for closing off parts of the internet to limit militant Islamist propaganda.
Trump has also urged a boycott of Apple products over the company's refusal to help the Federal Bureau of Investigation unlock an iPhone associated with last year's San Bernardino, California, shootings, threatened antitrust action against Amazon, and demanded that tech companies such as Apple manufacture their products in the United States.
Apple is expected to boost the screen size of its iPhone - but keep its physical dimensions the same.
The firm is set to unveil the most radical redesign of its flagship handset so far for the iPhone's 10th anniversary in 2017.
The latest rumours claim it will have a radical edge to edge curved screen - and a screen size boost.
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Apple firm is expected to unveil the most radical redesign ever of its flagship handset for the iPhone's 10th anniversary in 2017. Pictured are two concept drawings
Barclays Research analysts Blayne Curtis, Christopher Hemmelgarn, Thomas O'Malley, and Jerry Zhang says the screens will allow the handsets to maintian the same overall size as the current 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch models
The analysts, citing sources 'within Apple's supply chain' said 'iPhone 8 design didn't sound 100% locked down but we believe the move is to a bezel-less design with screen sizes getting larger and curved edges in the original envelope.
'The iPhone 8 moves to 5' (from 4.7') and the Plus moves to 5.8' (from 5.5').'
In the research note obtained by MacRumors, the analysts said only the 5.8-inch model will use OLED display technology, which can be sharper, brighter, and more energy efficient than LCD technology.
It comes days after experts predicted the iPhone 8 will also have wireless charging.
Foxconn Technology Group in New Taipei City, Taiwan is making wireless charging modules to go with Apple's next iPhone, due for release in 2017, according to an industry source familiar with the matter, Nikkei has reported.
'But whether the feature can eventually make it into Apple's updated devices will depend on whether Foxconn can boost the yield rate to a satisfactory level later on,' the source told Nikkei.
It is not clear whether Apple would offer a wireless charging plate, along the same lines as the one made by Samsung for its Galaxy S smartphones.
But a patent application, filed by Apple with the US Patent and Trademark Office in September showed images of a round charging device with a concave top, similar to the plastic wireless charger used by the Apple Watch.
The patent was first filed in late 2015 but was only just published last month.
While the patent is largely focused on brushing and polishing tools for metallic cylindrical and contoured devices, it also refers to an 'inductive charging station', notes Patently Apple.
A patent application, filed by Apple with the US Patent and Trademark Office in September showed images of a round charging device with a concave top, similar to the plastic wireless charger used by the Apple Watch (pictured)
It appears that the polishing tools are being developed specifically for a wireless charging station with a metal finish, which would match the iPhone.
'In describing how the tools would work, the application includes multiple illustrations of a charging station used to provide electrical current to another device via inductive power transmission,' notes Mac Rumours.
END OF THE HOME BUTTON? A patent granted to Apple recently revealed technology that places the home button underneath the display. The innovation uses an electrostatic lens that connects the connect the screen and sensors, allowing the device to accurately read fingerprints on the screen. Depending on the position of these lenses, relative voltage and shape, the layer or layers are able to shape or bend the electric field associate with the user's finger, reports AppleInsider. These specially designed lenses would also reduce the spreading of the electric field of a user's finger when placed on the screen, as this type of bending can sometimes offset a fingerprint's natural dispersion. Advertisement
'An inductive transmitter coil wraps around a metal core and is designed to pair with a receiver coil and charge the battery in the electronic device'.
Previous rumours have suggested new MacBook computers could include a wireless charging module on which the device can be placed to power it up.
Last week it was revealed Apple is set to launch three versions of the iPhone 8 next year, including a new 5inch handset.
Citing a supply chain source, Nikkei said Apple will release the three iPhones in the following 5.5 inches, 5 inches, and 4.7 inches (14cm, 12.7cm and 11.9cm).
Apple recently killed the headphone jack and its next victim could be the home button, according to previous rumours.
A patent awarded last month describes technology that is capable of scanning fingerprints almost anywhere on the screen of an iOS device - making the home button obsolete.
The latest application suggests using a special lens behind the display that connects the screen and sensors, allowing the device to capture an accurate print reading.
Rumours of Apple doing away with the iconic home button are not groundbreaking - many believed the firm would leave it out of the iPhone 7 design.
Apple killed the headphone jack and its next victim could be the home button. A recent patent describes a special lens behind the screen that scans fingerprints anywhere on the surface
These specially designed lens (pictured) would also reduce the spreading of the electric field of a user's finger when placed on the screen, as this type of bending can sometimes offset a fingerprint's natural dispersion
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There was a time when the word boutique and Peckham could never be associated with each other.
But those days - the days of Del Boy's Only Fools And Horses Peckham and The Nag's Head pub - are a distant memory.
Peckham has become one of the hippest areas in south London and the recently refurbished Victoria Inn is a 15-room testament to that.
Peckham has become one of the hippest areas in south London and the recently refurbished Victoria Inn (pictured) is a 15-room testament to that
The Victoria Inn serves up hearty fare in a convivial atmosphere. Ted enjoys devilled kidneys with pickled Scottish girolle mushrooms and a 10oz Rib eye steak with herb crusted bone marrow
Ted loves the stylish black-and-gold cushions on the bed, the smart headboard, the bedside plug and USB points, the cool local art on the walls and the Magimix Nespresso machine
It sits on the corner of one of the trendiest streets in the area Bellenden Road and has been there since 1878, but a recent makeover makes it one of the most stylish and best-value - places to stay for miles around.
Rooms here, after all, start at just 90 a night. Including breakfast.
What's more, to stay here is to be ensconced in a completely tourist-free area of London, yet it's just minutes away from major attractions such as The Shard and Buckingham Palace by train and Tube.
I stay on a Saturday night with my girlfriend and we're shown to our room on the top floor by a very chirpy member of staff.
She leads us up delightfully creaky, thickly carpeted stairs to a double room that has pleasingly Scandi-cool decor and a great view of The Shard.
Victoria Inn sits on the corner of one of the trendiest streets in the area Bellenden Road (pictured) and has been there since 1878, but a recent makeover makes it one of the most stylish and best-value - places to stay for miles around. Rooms start at just 90 including breakfast. Ted's room features hip sideways (and diagonal) tiling and a rain shower (right)
I love the stylish black and gold cushions on the bed, the smart headboard, the bedside plug and USB points, the cool local art on the walls and the Magimix Nespresso machine (that you can also use to make tea).
Plus, it's spotless, along with the en-suite bathroom, which features nice hipster sideways tiling and a rain shower though the water pressure isn't brilliant.
And a sink-side soap dish would be handy.
But overall, it's a dapper bedroom that we happily get snug in.
Until hunger strikes.
So we descend to the bar for a feed.
In a convivial atmosphere and flanked by exposed brickwork, filament light bulbs and black-and-white floor tiling we tuck into some nicely crafted, hearty fare - with possibly the biggest forks I've ever witnessed in a restaurant.
Devilled kidneys with pickled Scottish girolle mushrooms and toasted hazelnuts is a very tasty starter. And my 10oz Rib eye steak with herb crusted bone marrow for mains is just the ticket on a cold night, with juicy, succulent meat.
For dessert I choose a malted chocolate fondant that also tickles the taste buds.
The food at Victoria Inn is cooked well and diners tackle it with enormous forks, Ted reveals
The pub serves up a great evening meal for Ted and he also enjoys a very good breakfast, the sausages being a highlight
To stay at the Victoria Inn is to be ensconced in a completely tourist-free area of London, yet it's just minutes away from major attractions such as The Shard and Buckingham Palace by train and Tube
Afterwards sleep comes easily and in the morning we park ourselves at one of the window booths in the pub for breakfast something that is clearly no afterthought here. It's done properly.
This is evidently not news to the locals - we notice several groups coming in for breakfast.
I feast on a superb full English (my other half opts for Severn Wye smoked salmon with scrambled eggs) with seriously tasty sausages, Orkney black pudding and field mushrooms, and smooth coffee.
Not only is the food decent, but the pub really lends itself to paper perusing. We completely lose ourselves in the Sunday column inches as the chefs push out one spinach-laden plate after another (they're a healthy lot round here).
Some of the best nearby activities also happen to involve food and drink.
Bellenden Road is chocka block with artisanal offerings in these departments, including restaurants Artusi (excellent cooking here) and The Begging Bowl (a ferociously popular Thai eatery) and the delightfully old-school General Store, which sells beautifully baked loaves, cheese, wine, beer and fruit and veg in just the way your parents would remember.
Neighbouring hot spots include Thai restaurant The Begging Bowl (pictured here opposite the pub), another fine eatery called Artusi and a wonderful artisanal grocers called the General Store
Just 10-minutes away by foot, meanwhile, is a restaurant that I think is one of the best in London Peckham Bazaar. It offers a Balkan-influenced menu with dishes cooked to an exceptional standard, always rammed with flavour and there's a superb wine list, too.
In the summer good times can be had nearby at Frank's Cafe, a pop-up bar that pops up on the roof of a multi-storey car park, with Instagramable views of the city as standard.
For seriously good wine, a 15-minute walk to East Dulwich's buzzy Lordship Lane will bring you to the terrific La Cave de Bruno shop (where you can quaff on tables outside) and the brilliantly bistro-y Toasted.
Just 10-minutes away by foot from Victoria Inn is a restaurant Ted hails as one of the best in London Peckham Bazaar (pictured)
Toasted (pictured) in East Dulwich is a short walk from Victoria Inn and serves up delicious wine by the tank-load
Dulwich Picture Gallery is within easy striking distance of Victoria Inn. The Duchess of Cambridge is pictured here paying a visit in March 2012
Artusi (pictured) on Bellenden Road is one of the many establishments that help make it a hot spot for locals
For culture vultures, the renowned Dulwich Picture Gallery (visited recently by the Duchess of Cambridge) is easy to reach by train from Peckham Rye station which is just five minutes by foot from Victoria Inn. Just go two stops to North Dulwich and saunter from there.
Travelling to major tourist attractions is also a cinch from Peckham Rye as there are direct trains to London Bridge (for the Shard), Victoria (from there the likes of Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park are easy to get to) and Shoreditch (the trendiest district in Europe).
Peckham may not be everyone's cup of tea some bits are gritty - but the Victoria Inn, with its boutiquey credentials and transport connections offers a brilliant alternative to shacking up in a bland chain hotel in the city centre.
JetBlue has taken a step back in time and given one of its planes a retro paint job.
One of its Airbus A320s was given a one-of-a-kind paint scheme designed to celebrate the iconic jet age of air travel and to highlight 'JetBlue's innovative style', the company said.
To create the look, JetBlue dug into an archive of popular logos and notable companies from the mid-1960s to essentially reverse-engineer the JetBlue brand and envision what the customer-friendly carrier of today might have looked like some five decades ago.
To create the look, US-based JetBlue dug into an archive of popular logos and notable companies from the mid-1960s to essentially reverse-engineer the JetBlue brand
'The 1960s were rich with sleek but bold graphics and style characteristics of today's JetBlue brand,' said Jamie Perry, vice president marketing, JetBlue.
'With that in mind our team broke from our tradition of timeless designs and instead imagined a look to celebrate this iconic era of aviation and what JetBlue may have looked when it would have been introducing humanity to air travel.'
The aircraft design features bold JetBlue orange and blue 'speed stripes' down the length of the Airbus A320, a popular characteristic of 1960s aircraft paint schemes. Above the window line 'JetBlue Airways' is printed in a font consistent with a typeface widely used in the time period.
'The 1960s were rich with sleek but bold graphics and style characteristics of today's JetBlue brand,' said Jamie Perry, vice president marketing, JetBlue
The aircraft design features bold JetBlue orange and blue 'speed stripes' down the length of the Airbus A320
For inspiration, JetBlue designers spent several days at New York's Lubalin Archive at the Cooper Union poring through original advertisements, graphics, images and fonts from the 1960s
But perhaps most notable is the aircraft tail. Absent is a simple airline logo or icon. Instead, JetBlue's RetroJet tail features three colors and a lively 1960s jazz-inspired font that would have stood out among other airlines of the time.
'It's a jet age take on JetBlue's hallmark tails of today,' the carrier added.
For inspiration, JetBlue designers spent several days at New York's Lubalin Archive at the Cooper Union poring through original advertisements, graphics, images and fonts from the 1960s.
The team looked to leading brands for guidance on common themes and design elements that were widely used and associated with 1960s style.
In 2014 Qantas unveiled a Bowing 737-800 aircraft with a retro-themed 70s livery, as a tribute to 70 years of the iconic flying kangaroo logo.
Travelling the world is one of life's greatest luxuries, but when you're stuck at the back of a queue of three busloads of tourists, it can feel like total misery.
Often, when holidaying in a popular tourist destination, it can be hard to avoid busy crowds, scams and dodgy food.
But by travelling smart, there are ways to avoid succumbing to tourist traps.
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Seasoned travellers have been sharing their tips for avoiding tourists traps on holiday. They suggest avoiding dressing like a tourist and keeping expensive cameras and phones out of sight
Seasoned travellers have been sharing their tips for getting an authentic vacation experience in the online forum Quora.
Tips include avoiding anything that is written in English if it isn't the local language, steering clear of tour buses and dressing like a hippy.
The theory is that by blending in and looking out for where the locals congregate, travellers are most likely to avoid any con artists looking to make some money out of a lost foreigner.
If you're the type of person who regularly finds yourself trapped in tourist hell on holiday, then the following tips could save your next vacation...
Many expert travellers suggest getting up early to beat the tour buses to any popular tourist destinations
Go out late for dinner
Richard Guy, who describes himself as a frequent flyer, said: 'Tourism is a hungry and tiring business, so it's understandable that most people want to have their dinner at about 6.30pm.
But in many countries, this is a very odd thing to do - the Spanish, for example, rarely head out of the house for the evening until 9pm.
If you ask for dinner at 6.30pm, you're just marking yourself out as a tourist and many of the best places will not even be open until 7.30, let alone filled with locals.
Create an itinerary based on your interests, not the most popular attractions
Seth Mohan, a travel blogger said: 'Tourists look at the results on the first page of google and follow the recommendations, but travellers find less popular sites with a niche focus that theyre interested in.
'For example, choose an itinerary based around yoga, architecture or craft brewing and this will often lead you towards like-minded locals and open doors to authentic cultural experiences.'
Dressing like a backpacker can allow tourists to travel without attracting attention from scammers who like to target wealthy people
Dress like a local or a backpacker
Simona Rich, a travel writer said: 'Dont wear expensive clothes or you might attract unwelcome attention.
'Similarly, try not to show off expensive cameras and smartphones.
'Try to avoid wearing anything that tourists wear and instead blend in with the locals or opt for a backpacking style.'
Set your alarm really early
Jack Trotter, a travel writer said: 'Even places that are tourist traps can be awesome if you get there early enough to beat the crowds .
'Most tour groups run between 11am and 4pm, leaving a large window of time for you to get a jump on the large groups.
Some experts suggest avoiding certain popular tourist destinations completely because the crowds will taint the experience
'Youll rarely see a tour group up at sunrise to go do an epic activity - take advantage of this.'
Avoid popular holiday destinations completely
Crystal Linn, a regular traveller said: 'Tourist traps will always occur in the big tourist destinations like London, Dublin and Edinburgh.
'Although there might not be as much of an attraction in the less touristy areas, there are some gems.
'I went to Limerick in Ireland and the city was delightful after visiting Dublin - it still had architectural pieces and was surrounded by beautiful green hills, but best of all, I got more of a real sense of a normal Irish town there than I did in Dublin.'
Cities like Prague are often best seen in the winter as there are less crowds
Travel in the off-season
Andy Kerr, trainee pilot said: 'The best way to travel is during the off-season.
'For example, Prague in November is lovely, and not all that cold - there's still people out playing for money on the streets, and plenty to do, but you can walk from one end of the city to the other without feeling like a target.
'Prague in summer... is hell. Everywhere you look, there are other tourists and someone is always trying to sell you something, show you something, get your attention.'
Research local scams before your holiday
Paulo Abreu, who runs a travel website, said: 'Research the area youre visiting for known scams.
'Travel forums are packed with reports from other travellers so the main scams are already known.'
One expert suggested that restaurants where food is advertised using large photographs are best avoided if you are looking for an authentic experience
Avoid anything that is written in English if that isn't the local language
Ieva Strupule, who charters boats for tourists globally, said: 'Learn the language well enough to order from a menu in the local language because you don't want to be choosing places that offer a menu translated in four or more languages.
'If someone on a street persistently tries to get you in a restaurant, it is one to avoid.
Destinations included in the offer are Barcelona, Bordeaux and Frankfurt
Ryanair is hoping to tempt thousands of Brits to book last-minute European breaks this month with a flash sale on its mid-week flights.
The low-cost airline is selling 5 tickets to 170 destinations across the continent as part of a 'Fiver Monday' sale.
There are more than 20,000 seats on offer to passengers, as log as they are willing to travel on a Tuesday or Wednesday, but customers only have until midnight tonight to make use of the offer.
Ryanair are hoping to tempt thousands of Brits to book last minute European breaks this month with a flash sale on their mid-week flights
They can travel out of the UK from 12 airports, including London Stansted, Aberdeen, Belfast, Birmingham International, Bournemouth, Bristol, Cardiff, Derry, East Midlands, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.
Destinations included in the offer are Barcelona, Bordeaux, Frankfurt and Luxembourg.
Only last week, Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary revealed Ryanair would be slashing fares by up to 15 per cent this winter to combat the fallout from Brexit.
The outspoken boss hinted the fare reductions could last as long as 18 months, with Ryanair using lower fuel prices and cost cutting to help pay for price cuts, as the airline aims to fill seats at whatever price it can to win market share.
Ryanair is selling 5 tickets to 170 destinations across the continent as part of a 'Fiver Monday' sale
O'Leary told Bloomberg TV: 'We are looking at a year where as far as we can see air fares will keep falling. We are looking at extraordinary fare declines.'
Fares have already fallen by 10 per cent in the last six months alone, helping boost Ryanair's profits by seven per cent and increasing passenger numbers over the period.
O'Leary described the price falls as 'good news for customers, not so good news for shareholders', but added that the latter would have to 'learn to live with it for the foreseeable future'.
Ryanair is looking to drum up the firm's UK traffic numbers before Brexit fully kicks in. Despite it being a European airline, Britain remains a key market for the Irish carrier.
News / National
by Staff Reporter
A row over seven expensive Botswana padlocks spilled to the courts last week after a Glen View landlord accused her former tenants of stealing her padlocks.Rachel Garan'anga dragged Chrispen Kawere and his wife Agnes Muganhu to Mbare magistrates' court.Garan'anga said the padlocks under despute where imported from Botswana."There were seven padlocks fitted on doors when they moved in and when they moved out I was not around" she told magistrate Gladys Moyo."I only noticed that the padlocks were missing when I came back."I bought those padlocks in Botswana so they are not cheap quality".Garan'anga said the pair have to explain "what they did to my padlocks".However, Kawere denied the accusations saying they found no padlocks.They bought their own."When we were about to move out we notified her that we were going to remove it since it was ours and she agreed but we were surprised when she came with the police stating that we stole her padlocks" he said.They pleaded not guilty and subsequently acquitted.
She was no doubt left devastated following her split with ex husband Karl Stefanovic after 21 years of marriage.
But according to New Idea, Cassandra Thorburn is open and 'excited' to getting back into the dating scene, with friends wanting to 'set her up.'
'It's as if she has been given a new lease on life now,' a source told the publication.
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New beginnings: Karl Stefanovic's ex Cassandra Thorburn is reportedly open and 'excited' to getting back into the dating scene, with friends wanting to 'set her up' after her split with the Today Show star
'It's very early days, but Cass has some close friends who would love to set her up,' the insider said.
'She is excited to see where it goes,' they added.
Meanwhile, Cassandra has recently signed with celebrity agent Max Markson in a bid to revive her career as a media personality.
Moving forward: 'It's as if she has been given a new lease on life now,' a source told the publication
Confirming the news to Daily Mail Australia recently, Max said: 'Cass is an outstanding journalist with over 20 years experience in radio, television and of course writing.'
The Sydney PR king went on to explain that the mother-of-three will be 'using her experience as an opinionated columnist and on-air TV and radio presenter' to relaunch her career.
It's also been rumoured recently that Cassandra may appear on Today's rival show, Channel Seven's Sunrise.
Over: The pair made headlines in recent weeks when they ended their 21-year marriage
Cassandra recently spoke to Mum Central about her and Karl's split, confirming the end of their relationship.
'I'm grieving the loss of my relationship. The loss of my best friend and life partner,' she said.
'I'm just like every other mother and wife who is going through a marriage break up, only I have the added anxiety of having the spotlight thrust in my face at a time when what myself and my children really need is privacy,' she added.
Cassandra was a stay at home mum and has slammed critics who questioned why she decided to give up her career to raise her children.
Last week, Channel Nine boss Darren Wick confirmed Karl will be taking at least a month off work as he deals with family issues.
And according to Karl's manager the TV star is 'happy' about the break.
'I think any of us would be happy to take a holiday at the end of the year,' he said.
Time for a rest! Last week, Channel Nine boss Darren Wick confirmed Karl will be taking at least a month off work as he deals with family issues
Reports emerged back in September that Karl had separated from Cassandra, a former ABC journalist, after 21 years of marriage.
An insider has hinted that their dicey relationship may become a lot uglier as the pair prepare to split their assets in divorce proceedings.
Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald, a 'long term associate' of Karl and Cassandra said: 'If she really wanted to tip the bucket on Karl, she could... Cassie really is holding the cards in this... it is going to cost Karl a lot of money.'
A source previously told New Idea that Cassandra plans on fighting to keep the $7 million mansion the pair purchased a month before splitting.
It is understood the Logie-winning presenter moved out of the family home.
Representatives for Cassandra have been contacted for comment in relation to this article.
Although she was unable to attend due to her battle with breast cancer, Shannen Doherty's spirit was very much present during the reunion of Beverly Hills, 90210.
The original cast members of the 90's series gathered on Saturday for REWind Con in Bloomingdale, Illinois.
And stars Luke Perry and Jennie Garth made an effort to keep Shannen in their thoughts during the event.
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'Fight like a Brenda:' The original cast of Beverly Hills, 90210 had a reunion at REWind Con in Illinois on Saturday as Jennie Garth shared a heartfelt message for castmate Shannen Doherty who couldn't make it to the event as she is battling cancer
Throwback: Jennie pictured with the 48-year-old actress who played Brenda Walsh in the 90's series together back in 2009
The 45-year-old actress - who recently told her supporters about radiation treatments late October - spent a quiet Saturday instead with her husband and film producer Kurt Iswarienko.
Co-star Jennie kept Shannen very much included, however, as she posted a heartfelt message to Instagram.
The 44-year-old, who played the rival to Shannen's character, Brenda Walsh, wrote: 'To my soul sister @theshando strongest lady i've ever known. then and now. i used to be threatened by your spirit, now i'm in awe of it. you've taught me a lot about speaking my mind and not being afraid of my power. i'm so grateful that young me got to be friends with you. but especially "old" me! the best is yet to come on this crazy journey!! love you! #fightlikeagirl #fightlikebrenda #aries.'
Shannen also re-posted the message to her social media adding: ' I'm so proud of this friendship and the mutual respect and admiration we have for each other.'
The whole gang: The classic series had a ten-year run from 1990 to 2000
At home: Shannen spent her Saturday with her husband and film producer Kurt Iswarienko; she recently told her fans about being done with chemotherapy and is now on to radiation
Luke, who played love interest to Brenda on the show, also showed his support and said to the fans: 'None of us are up here today without Shannen. Shes been through a lot. Shes not doing well right now but sometimes her contributions are minimized.'
He added: 'Shes been thrown under the bus. Ive been accused of driving it. But shes a very big part of the success of this show. She taught me a lot. Im glad she was my scene partner. She was great at what she did in the character with me.'
Luke and Jennie were both joined by other cast members for the panel discussion with fans including Jason Priestley, James Eckhouse, Tori Spelling, Christine Elise, Gabrielle Carteris, and Vincent Young.
Supportive: Cast member Luke Perry, who played love interest to Brenda on the show, also gave a tribute to Shannen during the event saying: 'None of us are up here today without Shannen. Shes been through a lot...'
'Here we are:' Vincent Young also shared a photo from the event to his Instagram posing with his former co-stars
Reunited: Fans got a treat during the panel discussion
Ever since announcing the devastating news in February 2015, the brave actress has consistently updated her undergoing treatment via social media, strengthening her fellow cancer patients worldwide.
She's revealed that the cancer has spread to her lymph nodes and has had a single mastectomy over the spring.
After posting about being done with chemotherapy, strong-willed Shannen- who was honored with the American Cancer Society's Courage Award last week - wrote on Instagram: 'Sometimes it seems like chemo will never end. Sometimes you wonder if you have the courage to face cancer and all that comes with it. Dig deep. The courage, strength and tenacity is there inside us all...'
They play a married couple on the long running Australian soap, Home and Away.
And single actors Lisa Gormley and Dan Ewing have explained their sizzling chemistry.
Lisa, 32, told New Idea that they get along in real life like a house on fire, but insists it's platonic.
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'It looks like there's sexual tension': Single actors and Home and Away co-stars Lisa Gormley and Dan Ewing (seen in August) have spoken about their sizzling chemistry
'It looks like there's sexual tension, but it's definitely not real,' the brunette told the publication.
According to the magazine the pair were 'flirty' when they posed up together for their latest photo shoot and called each other 'baby.'
Meanwhile, Dan said the chemistry viewers see on the show between the pair is real.
Steamy! Dan said the chemistry viewers see on the show between the pair is real (seen on the soap)
'You just can't fake that kind of chemistry, it was there from the start,' Dan said.
'We argue, we cry, we laugh, but Lisa is a great influence on my life.'
Dan also told the publication Lisa helped him through his marriage split and was there for him when he broke up with ex Marni.
He added they keep in touch via Facebook when not working and he cheekily likes to 'try her patience' at times.
Meanwhile, Lisa said she open to love, whether it be with a male or a female.
His support: Dan also told the publication Lisa helped him through his marriage split and was there for him when he broke up with ex Marni
On the soap, Dan plays the tattooed bad boy Heath Braxton, while Lisa plays his love interest Bianca Scott.
The pair's characters are married and shared a baby together, a son called Rocco, who died of sudden infant death syndrome.
Dan has been on and off the show since he first left the soap to pursue his Hollywood dreams in 2014.
Last year he moved back to Australia after his LA stint.
Dan first had a brief role on the show as Reuben in 2007, before later coming back as Heath.
He previously told The Fix about life in the US and said he and his family weren't enjoying living in LA.
Former flame: Dan is seen here with his ex, Marni, with the pair announcing their split earlier this year
'To be honest, with a family, we're not overly big fans of living in the US just because of the medical system, education and whatever,' he said.
Dan and wife Marni announced their split earlier this year.
'I was a grumpy old fool and I was really hard to deal with,' Dan recently toldKIIS FM's Kyle and Jackie O.
'We were in the States and I wasnt having a good time...I was just unhappy,' he added.
The personality said he 'didn't appreciate what I had' and still loves Marni.
He and Marni wed in Sydney's Manly in 2012 and share son Archer, two.
On the first floor of Buckingham Palace, with views down the great avenue of the Mall, is a guest room that must evoke very mixed emotions for Her Majesty the Queen.
It was in the Buhl Room, as it's known, that Prince Philip stayed on the night the royal couple announced their engagement in July 1947 and there, too, that the Queen gave birth to Prince Charles a year after their wedding.
But alongside such happy memories the room has a darker association. For it was there that, on the morning of Sunday, September 23, 1951, the Queen's father, George VI, became the focus of one of the most remarkable episodes in palace history.
It was the day when the country's top surgeons, having erected a temporary but fully equipped operating theatre, battled to save him from lung cancer.
The scene from Netflix's The Crown where doctors operate on George VI
The story is told in The Crown, the much-hyped 100 million TV series about the early years of our monarch's reign.
Watching it unfold, you might suspect that director Stephen Daldry, best known for the film Billy Elliot, has made liberal use of dramatic licence.
After all, it seems unlikely that such a life-threatening procedure would have been carried out just along from the balcony where the Royal Family make their public appearances.
But that is exactly what did happen, and the production team wanted to make the scene as authentic as possible.
And if there seems to be something eerily convincing about the medics wielding their scalpels on the King's chest, that's because Daldry cast in the roles a team of real-life surgeons from Guy's Hospital in London, 'operating' on a highly realistic silicone replica body.
In normal life, the surgeons work together regularly on organ transplants.
Professor Nizam Mamode plays lead surgeon Sir Clement Price Thomas, a chain-smoker and grocer's son from Wales, in whose hands the course of British history lay. Like his colleagues, Professor Mamode had no acting experience.
N ot that much was required once filming began at the palatial Goldsmiths' Hall in the City of London, a stand-in for the real Buhl Room.
'It did feel for us very much like we were standing there doing a real operation,' he says, adding that the experience gave him great admiration for Sir Clement and his assistants.
'Ideally, you treat every patient in the same way. But it would not have escaped their minds that they were in Buckingham Palace and operating on the King, and that would have created a huge amount of stress.'
Alongside the psychological pressure, operating at the Palace also presented the surgeons with an unexpected practical problem, according to Karin Ort, the eldest granddaughter of Sir Clement.
'He realised that he might be disturbed by the changing of the guard below the room in which he was operating, so he insisted that the change-over should be carried out at St James's Palace instead.'
Her grandfather's expertise was called upon after the King developed what one courtier described as 'that awful cough' in the months after he opened the Festival of Britain in May 1951.
Claire Foy and Jared Harris play Queen Elizabeth II and King George VI
He was then 55 and his health had suffered as a result of the stress of the abdication crisis, not to mention World War II.
It didn't help that he was also a heavy smoker, said to get through 50 cigarettes a day but even after tests suggested the presence of a malignant tumour in his left lung, the word 'cancer' was never mentioned.
The King certainly knew he was seriously ill, though. In the opening shots of The Crown, he is seen coughing blood into a toilet bowl. Not to mention cancer was standard practice at the time and, although informed that his condition would require the removal of one lung, the King believed this was down to a blocked bronchial tube.
The royal desire for privacy had led to many operations being performed at the palace Edward VII had an appendix removed there, for example. But this was a much more serious procedure.
Sir Clement initially resisted the idea and understandably so, according to Professor Mamode.
'He would effectively be operating in a makeshift theatre,' he says. 'Hopefully, you would have everything you needed, but if someone had forgotten something, it wouldn't be just around the corner as it would be in a hospital.'
In the end, Sir Clement agreed to work at the Palace on condition that he could exactly replicate the equipment and layout of his operating theatre at Westminster Hospital. In fact, he insisted on setting up two identical theatres, one in an adjoining room in case of an unforeseen emergency.
In The Crown, the operating table is positioned directly beneath huge chandeliers, in a room hung with oil paintings.
As the Buhl Room is not open to the public, we don't know how accurate this is. But whatever the furnishings were, it's certain that the King was not exposed to dust and dirt in the way this might suggest.
W e know this because the assistant anaesthetist was Dr Cyril Scurr, father of Dr Martin Scurr, who writes the Mail's weekly 'Ask the Doctor' column in Good Health.
Prof Mamode, centre, and the team from Guy's who appeared in the TV drama
'My father was very discreet and didn't tell me much about the operation at all,' Dr Scurr says. 'But I do know that they erected a sterilised canvas structure around the table.'
The task of transporting numerous oxygen cylinders, mobile lights and sterilising equipment was co-ordinated by theatre superintendent Sarah Minter, who later recalled the thrill of looking out of the palace window and seeing the crowds gathering as a bulletin about the operation was posted to the gates.
If the King could hear the hubbub as he was prepared for the anaesthetic, it must have added to his already considerable anxiety. As Dr Cyril Scurr described many years later: 'The most touching thing was that when we went to put him to sleep in the morning, he had all the Sunday papers around him, and they were all hazarding a guess that he'd got cancer of the lung.
'He was a timid sort of person who I think was very apprehensive about the operation more, perhaps, than most people because he had a biblical quotation in his own hand on his bedside table, 'Put your trust in the Lord' and that sort of thing.'
Since a patient needs to be as calm and relaxed as possible before being put under, this was hardly a desirable state of affairs. But the King's worries were well-founded, according to Professor Mamode. 'The complication rates from that sort of surgery were pretty high at that time, so there was a good chance that he may not have survived the operation,' he says.
He and the rest of his team were reminded of some of the reasons for those complications as they were transported back in time for the filming. One was the white gowns with which they were provided by the costume department seen increasingly spattered with blood as the operation went on.
'Today, the gowns we wear are impermeable to protect us from the patient's body fluids and to protect them from our sweat and infection,' says Professor Mamode.
'In those days they were using linen and cotton, which is clearly not as effective in terms of sterility.'
Other things felt more familiar. Although modern treatments for lung cancer are far more likely to involve chemotherapy, radiotherapy and minimally invasive 'keyhole' surgery, it is sometimes still necessary to carry out the kind of operation which the King underwent.
This involved removing the lung through a large incision in the chest wall. Most surgeons will have made such an incision at some point in their career, and the instruments used have changed little over time.
Like the real thing, the filming took place on a Sunday, with the Guy's team working in their spare time. The difference was that Sir Clement completed the removal in about three hours a quarter of the time it took to capture the scene on camera. During the real operation, the King's wife, Queen Elizabeth, (later the Queen Mother) and daughter Princess Margaret were at the Palace throughout.
Princess Elizabeth, our present Queen, was then aged 25 and waited at her nearby home, Clarence House, with Prince Philip and their young children, three-year-old Prince Charles and Princess Anne, who was only a year old.
He could easily have died on the operating table
Towards the end of the operation, they were called to the Palace to be told that the King had survived.
As his family took in this good news, the job of clearing up began. And those who have already started watching The Crown, which is available via the online TV channel Netflix, may have been shocked to see a nurse removing the King's diseased lung from a specimen bowl and wrapping it in an old newspaper, presumably prior to disposing of it.
This is inaccurate, according to the Mail's Dr Scurr.
'My father told me that he put the lung in a bottle of formalin and took it back to the pathology lab at Westminster Hospital in a taxi,' he says.
When Sir Clement left the Palace that afternoon, it was in his own car, and he was so distracted by all that had happened that he crashed into another vehicle on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace.
Fortunately, the police didn't prosecute the man whose efforts on behalf of the King would soon be rewarded with a knighthood.
Sadly, the King died the following February from a coronary thrombosis (a clot blocking the flow of blood to the heart). This may have been a delayed complication of the surgery, or might have happened anyway.
We shall never know but he could easily have died on the operating table five months previously, depriving him of the time he needed to put his house in order and pave the way for his daughter to become our Queen.
For that, Sir Clement and his team could congratulate themselves on a job well done. And so, it seems, can the makers of The Crown, which is already being acclaimed for its lavish sets and spellbinding acting, in particular Jared Harris's anguished but heroic George VI.
After a series of seconds-long teasers, Paramount Pictures finally released the first full trailer for Ghost in the Shell on Sunday.
The 2070-set reimagining - hitting UK/US theaters March 31 - is a live-action adaptation of Mamoru Oshii's 1995 anime feature and Masamune Shirow's 1989 manga series.
The two-minute preview recreated the 'shelling' process that robo-cop The Major/Motoko Kusanagi (Scarlett Johansson) initially undergoes in a lab.
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Robo-cop: After a series of seconds-long teasers, Paramount Pictures finally released the first full trailer for Ghost in the Shell on Sunday
Hitting UK/US theaters March 31! The 2070-set reimagining is a live-action adaptation of Mamoru Oshii's 1995 anime feature and Masamune Shirow's 1989 manga series
'You were dying. We saved you and now you save others,' Juliette Binoche's Dr. Ouelet explained in voiceover.
Not unlike Wolverine or Jason Bourne, the Major's existential journey involves uncovering her mysterious past and figuring out what she was before.
The gun-filled clip gave fans an action-packed, lingering look at Motoko's invisible armor otherwise known as a thermoptic suit.
The four-time Golden Globe nominee - who turns 32 this month - resembled an Ex Machina bot with her flesh-coloured puzzle-pieced attire.
Resuscitated: The two-minute preview recreated the 'shelling' process that The Major/Motoko Kusanagi (Scarlett Johansson) initially undergoes in a lab
Juliette Binoche's Dr. Ouelet explained in voiceover: 'You were dying. We saved you and now you save others'
'I know I have a past': Not unlike Wolverine or Jason Bourne, the Major's existential journey involves uncovering her mysterious past and figuring out what she was before
Not-so-stealth entrance: The gun-filled clip gave fans an action-packed, lingering look at Motoko's invisible armor otherwise known as a thermoptic suit
'Actually, I was kind of scared of the thermoptic suit. I thought that it was going to be, I don't know, extremely uncomfortable,' Scarlett said during the Nerdist Twitter Q&A on Saturday.
'It wasn't the most comfortable, but it wasn't unlike wearing the Black Widow suit. It actually moved a little bit better. It was okay. Although, it was hot when you didn't want it to be and cold when you wanted to be warm, so that was the only unfortunate part.'
When the Danish and Polish-descended actress was first cast, fans and media action groups accused producers of 'whitewashing' the iconically Japanese character.
Fembot: The four-time Golden Globe nominee - who turns 32 this month - resembled an Ex Machina bot with her flesh-coloured puzzle-pieced attire
Scarlett said during the Nerdist Twitter Q&A on Saturday: 'Actually, I was kind of scared of the thermoptic suit. I thought that it was going to be, I don't know, extremely uncomfortable'
She continued: 'It wasn't the most comfortable, but it wasn't unlike wearing the Black Widow suit. It actually moved a little bit better'
Scarlett added: 'It was okay. Although, it was hot when you didn't want it to be and cold when you wanted to be warm, so that was the only unfortunate part'
Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. star Ming-Na Wen condemned Johansson's casting in April as 'whitewashing of Asian role.'
And Fresh Off the Boat star Constance Wu worried it 'reduced race to mere phys appearance as opposed to say culture, social experience, identity, history.'
In fact the only prominent (non-robotic) Asian face in Sunday's trailer was Takeshi Kitano as Section 9 Chief Daisuke Aramaki.
Lost in translation? When the Danish and Polish-descended actress was first cast, fans and media action groups accused producers of 'whitewashing' the iconically Japanese character
'Nothing against' her: Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. star Ming-Na Wen condemned Johansson's casting in April as 'whitewashing of Asian role'
Nope: And Fresh Off the Boat star Constance Wu worried it 'reduced race to mere phys appearance as opposed to say culture, social experience, identity, history'
Boss man: In fact the only prominent (non-robotic) Asian face in Sunday's trailer was Takeshi Kitano as Section 9 Chief Daisuke Aramaki
On Sunday in Japan, Ghost in the Shell director Rupert Sanders defended casting the Captain America actress due to her 'baked in cyberpunk aesthetic.'
'I think whenever you cast someone someone's going to be critical about it,' the 45-year-old philandering filmmaker said onstage Tokyo's Tabloid.
'To me it was, you know, I stand by my decision - she's the best actress of her generation and I was flattered and honored that she would be in this film. So many people who were around the original anime have been vehemently in support of her because she's incredible and there are very few like her.'
'I stand by my decision': On Sunday in Japan, Ghost in the Shell director Rupert Sanders (R) defended casting the Captain America actress due to her 'baked in cyberpunk aesthetic'
The 45-year-old philandering filmmaker said onstage Tokyo's Tabloid: 'So many people who were around the original anime have been vehemently in support of her because she's incredible and there are very few like her'
Sunday's sneak peek showcased the film's Caucasian-heavy ensemble including Juliette Binoche (L) as Dr. Ouelet, Pilou Asbk (M) as Batou, and Michael Wincott (R) as a baddie
'Everything they told you was a lie. They did not save your life. They stole it': There was only a quick, shadowy glimpse of Michael Pitt as Kuze with his visible throat gears
Sunday's sneak peek showcased the film's Caucasian-heavy ensemble including Juliette Binoche as Dr. Ouelet, Pilou Asbk as Batou, and Michael Wincott as a baddie.
There was only a quick, shadowy glimpse of Michael Pitt as Kuze with his visible throat gears.
'Everything they told you was a lie. They did not save your life. They stole it,' Kuze warned.
The Ancient One: Hollywood studios are notorious for misappropriating Asian culture, characters, and stories and replacing them with white actors like Tilda Swinton as a 'Celtic- Tibetan' mystic in Doctor Strange
Ponytailing: Next year's $135M-budget medieval Chinese epic The Great Wall selected Matt Damon to star as a 'European mercenary'
Lame: More examples of tacky cinematic whitewashing include Cameron Crowe's Aloha with Emma Stone (L) and the Wachowski's Cloud Atlas with Halle Berry (R)
Hollywood studios are notorious for misappropriating Asian culture, characters, and stories and replacing them with white actors like Tilda Swinton as a 'Celtic- Tibetan' mystic in Doctor Strange.
Next year's $135M-budget medieval Chinese epic The Great Wall selected Matt Damon to star as a 'European mercenary.'
Katherine Heigl is expecting her third child in January.
And on Sunday the 37-year-old actress was seen stocking up at the Rose Bowl Flea Market in Pasadena, California with her husband, Josh Kelley, 36.
The star hid her full-grown pregnant bump underneath a loose black tank top and cropped leggings as she strolled along on the warm November day.
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Bumping along! Katherine Heigl sported her pregnant bump on Sunday at the flea market in Pasadena with husband Josh Kelley
The Grey's Anatomy alum completed her look with a green hat, sunglasses, and black-and-white sneakers.
Prepared to make some purchases at the market, Katherine reached into her camel-colored leather purse and pulled out what appeared to be a small red wallet.
Behind her, Josh - wearing a dark grey tee, cargo shorts and green trainers - carried a large cart for their goodies.
Shopping spree: The 37-year-old actress kept it black in a loose tank top, cropped leggings and black-and-white sneakers. She topped it off with a green cap and sunglasses
Ready to buy! The former Grey's Anatomy star pulled out what appeared to be a red wallet from her camel-colored leather purse
Third's the charm! The blonde beauty announced in June she was expecting her first biological child; Katherine and Josh also raise two adopted girls, Naleigh, seven, and Adalaide, four
Her two daughters, seven-year-old Naleigh and four-year-old Adalaide, were not seen with their parents, leaving the husband and wife to enjoy their alone time.
And Katherine certainly values that as she posted a selfie to her Instagram last week writing: 'I'm not a very confident selfie taker but I couldn't resist trying to capture this rare adults only moment between @joshbkelley and I as the sun sets this beautiful November evening in LA! #kidsarewatchingtv #muchneededalonetime.'
The couple - who tied the knot in 2007 - later welcomed adopted daughters Naleigh from South Korea in 2009 and Adalaide in 2012.
The 27 Dresses star announced she was pregnant with her first biological child back in June.
Alone time: The mom-of-three posted a selfie with her husband last week documenting their much-needed alone time as she wrote in the caption
Scary! The Knocked Up star posted a fun Halloween photos with her two girls
Meanwhile, the mom-to-be has been busy working on upcoming CBS drama Doubt, which also stars Laverne Cox and Elliott Gould, set to premiere in 2017.
On the upcoming series, per CBS's description, Katherine plays Sadie Ellis, a brilliant attorney at a boutique firm who starts to fall for her charismatic client, Billy Brennan, an altruistic pediatric surgeon accused of murdering his girlfriend 24 years ago.
The busy actress will also star in upcoming film Unforgettable alongside Rosario Dawson and Whitney Cummings.
She had been stumping for Hillary Clinton in a desperate last minute drive to get more votes.
So perhaps that explains why Anne Hathaway looked so glum as she headed out for a fancy birthday dinner with her handsome husband Adam Shulman in New York on Saturday.
The Les Miserables favourite was downbeat despite the fact she was eating out at a fancy French restaurant Le Cirque with her reality television personality pal Olivia Palermo.
Scarlet woman: Anne Hathaway wore red as she went to a birthday meal with husband Adam Shulman in New York on Saturday
The newly-minted 34-year-old was looking great for her age in a red satin dress that showcased her knockout figure, a fur coat and towering gold stilettos.
Her beefcake jewellery designer other half meanwhile looked masculine in a classic tuxedo and leather shoes combo.
They were joined at the eatery by self-styled model and socialite Olivia Palermo, who was escorted by her German model other half Johannes Huebl.
Perhaps the reason Anne was so glum is her beloved presidential candidate Hillary Clinton has only just suffered a landslide loss at the polls.
It came despite the Oscar-winning actress stumping for the Democrat nominee at Temple University earlier this week
Fur goodness sake: Even the fact she was going for a slap-up birthday meal was not enough to cheer glum Anne
Friends in high places: They were joined by Olivia Palermo and her husband Johannes Huebl
She was so keen to drum up extra votes she even ended up singing Happy Birthday to student and fellow Scorpio Ewan Johnson.
According to the more cosmically inclined the latter means they can be caring and sensible, though they are also said to be self-pitying, stubborn and opinionated.
The touching campus moment, which was caught on video, saw the actress, who ironically was wearing a 'proud to support Madam President' shirt, already mid-song as the crowd sings with her.
And she really made his day on the second 'happy birthday to you', wrapping her arms around the strapping young lad's waist and giving him a tight squeeze while resting her head on his shoulder so they are cheek-to-cheek.
Typical Scorpio: The Hillary Clinton fan seemed to be self-pitying after seeing her candidate lose in a landslide on Tuesday
They've been enjoying time together in Sydney where they also confirmed to Daily Mail Australia that they are indeed dating.
And on Monday, The Bachelor's Megan Marx and Tiffany Scanlon enjoyed climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge together.
The two blonde beauties - who hail from Perth - cosied up to one another as they soaked up the idyllic view.
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Taking their love to new heights! On Monday, The Bachelor's Megan Marx (R) and Tiffany Scanlon (L) enjoyed climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge together
Clad in their climbing jumpsuits, the duo were all smiles as they made their way to the top of the bridge.
Megan stunned with her hair in a chic side braid, showing off a golden tan and wearing minimal makeup.
Tiffany meanwhile, had her long locks tied up into a low ponytail and wore light face paint.
Loving it: Clad in their climbing jumpsuits, the duo were all smiles as they made their way to the top of the bridge
Blowing a gale! Tiffany had her long locks tied up into a low ponytail and wore light makeup
Megan shared a snap of herself online, describing Sydney as a 'pretty thang' (sic).
Tiffany meanwhile said the experience was a tick off the 'bucket list.'
'Today I ticked another item off the bucket list - the @bridgeclimb on Sydney Harbour Bridge. Bonus I got to do it with my girl! Thankyou so much for the experience,' Tiffany wrote in part of her post.
Bikini babes: The pair have been enjoying some time together in Sydney (seen here at Bondi Beach)
Sweet: The pair confirmed their romance to Daily Mail Australia on Friday
For months Megan and Tiffany have dropped hints they are in a same-sex relationship with one another.
And on Friday, the busty girlfriends officially confirmed their romance at the Maxim Hot 100 party at The Star, Sydney.
Speaking to Daily Mail Australia at the event, Tiffany confessed that the pair fell in love during a holiday in Bali, Indonesia in June.
'While we were in the show, it was just a friendship. It probably wasn't until we were in Bali together that it was like ''Oh, this is more'',' said Tiffany.
Speculation: For months Megan and Tiffany have dropped hints they are in a same-sex relationship with one another
Going strong: Tiffany confessed that the pair fell in love during a holiday in Bali, Indonesia in June (seen here on The Bachelor)
Her partner Megan also confessed she wasn't expecting to fall for another woman while filming the TV dating series, starring Richie Strahan.
'We had very different experiences when we were on the show. Obviously I found Tiffany very attractive but I was there to get to know Richie,' she said.
'But instantly we knew there was a very strong connection. I was so excited to meet her in Bali,' Megan added.
The couple revealed 'no one seemed to notice' they had become more than friends during that fateful holiday - and it took 'months' for anyone to find out.
'It started in June and it wasn't until October that people noticed! So it was quite a long time,' Tiffany revealed.
She's the straight-talking legal eagle on The Real Housewives of Melbourne.
But Gina Liano seemed a little taken aback by her own thoughts as she spoke about posing nude on magazine covers on Monday's The Morning Show.
The 50-year-old, who appeared naked on the cover of Stellar magazine, admitted she'd never have done that in her 30s, because it would send the wrong message and look more sexualised.
She instantly backtracked after realising she took an accidental swipe at fellow reality TV lawyer, Anna Heinrich, who recently posed nude for Women's Health.
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Whoops: Gina Liano (pictured) said she'd never have posed naked for Stellar magazine in her 30s as it'd send the wrong message, but instantly backtracked after realising it may have sounded like a swipe at Anna Heinrich
Quickly realising Anna, who appeared on the segment prior, is just-shy of turning 30, Gina quickly noted it's different when it comes to 'wellness magazines'.
'I wouldn't do this at the age of 30, which is about where [Anna] is and the reason that I say that is because I wouldn't have wanted it to be a sort of raunchy shot, and I think if you're around that age it could give off that [vibe],' Gina explained to co-hosts Larry Emdur and Kylie Gillies.
However, the Melbourne beauty was very quick to add: 'NOT that that's happened in a wellness magazine... but at my age, I think it's more of a glamour shot and that was the basis of doing it'.
Straight shooter! The straight-talking barrister almost seemed a little taken aback by her own thoughts as she spoke about posing nude on magazine covers on Monday's The Morning Show
It's different: Quickly realising Anna, who appeared on the segment prior, is just-shy of turning 30, Gina quickly noted it's different when it comes to 'wellness magazines'.
Gina appeared on the cover of Stellar's Sunday issue, in which she also admitted that while outside of her comfort zone, she hoped to inspire other women of her age.
For the 50-year-old it seems this particular stage in her life has always had a special meaning for the barrister.
'I thought of who I wanted to be when I was 50,' she recalled of her 18-year-old self.
Reality TV starlet: The 50-year-old is a firm fixture among the Real Housewives of Melbourne cast
'That seemed to be a number that kept coming up. What do you look like? What do you feel like? What are you wearing? That was my point of reference. At 50, where are you going to be? Who are you?'
So it seemed a poignant time for the mother-of-two to strip down and reveal the naked truth about her life at this age.
Meanwhile, The Bachelor's Anna Heinrich, posed as part of a series in the December issue of Women's Health magazine, aimed at empowering body confidence in young women.
Baring all! Anna Heinrich opened up about her past body-image demons as she posed naked on the latest cover of Woman's Health magazine, to inspire confidence in others
Some hesitations: The blonde beauty, who is also a criminal layer, told The Morning Show she had some reservations before posing for the shoot
'Every year that I get older I become more confident, I love myself more, I love my body more, and I just hope that everyone can kind of get to that stage,' Anna explained.
However, the reality TV starlet who is also a criminal layer, told The Morning Show she had some reservations before posing for the shoot.
'Probably my only major concern was my legal career and no-matter what I do, I take that into consideration,' she told Larry and Kylie, also admitting she first spoke with family and friends before agreeing to pose naked.
Women's Health magazine is on sale now.
They began dating in February this year.
And it appears Dave Billsborrow and Cortnee Spessot's romance has gone from strength to strength, with the couple now living together in their first home.
'First drinks in our first home. Cannot wait to have many more firsts with you...' Cortnee shared via Instagram along with a photo of the pair sitting on the floor of a semi-furnished room.
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'Our first home': Dave Billsborrow and his girlfriend Cortnee Spessot have taken their relationship to the next level after moving into their first home together
Former Bachelorette contestant Dave, 31, appears to be holding a beer can in one hand while wrapping his arm around his girlfriend.
Cortnee meanwhile, held a champagne flute in her hand as she snuggled up beside her beau.
The genetically-blessed couple both cut relaxed figures, with Cortnee sporting a pair of Calvin Klein tights and a black jumper while Dave wore shorts and a black T-shirt.
Congratulations: Cortnee's friends took to the comments section of her Instagram post to congratulate the pair on their 'grown up' milestone
Going strong: Former Bachelorette contestant Dave gushed about his girlfriend, telling Daily Mail Australia things were 'going great'
The couple were visibly overjoyed as they celebrated their milestone, later telling Daily Mail Australia that they were renting the unit.
With most of the room still looking bare, the pair sat on the carpeted floor in front of a glass coffee table as they enjoyed the celebrations.
'We're really similar': The 31-year-old plumber credited the strength of their romance to similarities in their personalities
They also had a makeshift sound system set up in the corner next to a lamp.
Friends and followers alike took to the comments section to congratulate the couple, with one writing: 'So exciting!! Can't wait to see it! Xx'
'Yay!! Can't wait to come see it. So grown up,' another wrote.
Close: Dave first rose to fame as a contender for Sam Frost's (right) heart in The Bachelorette in 2015
In August, the plumber told Daily Mail Australia his relationship with Cortnee was going strong.
'It's going great. She's a beautiful person and I'm really happy,' he gushed at Cruise Bar's party in Sydney.
'We're really similar,' Dave added, while Cortnee echoed his comment and revealed their relationship is 'really great.'
Reality exes: Dave briefly dated Sam Frost's best friend and former Bachelor contestant Sarah-Mae Amey
Dave and Cortnee started dating nine months ago, shortly after his split from former Bachelor contestant Sarah-Mae Amey.
He dated the floral stylist for just four months after being introduced by mutual friend and former Bachelorette, Sam Frost.
Sarah-Mae has also moved on from her reality TV beau, currently dating E-commerce manager Dan Small.
Opinion / Columnist
The so much hyped American election has come and gone. Who would have known that the people were so much dissatisfied with the American establishment? They voted for Donald Trump showing their contempt for the establishment. The raised middle finger was unambiguously clear for the whole world to see.One cannot disregard the people's concerns, take their lives for granted for over a very long time and expect the people not to react.This should have been the message the Zimbabwean opposition got from the American election. Unfortunately, our opposition and civic organisations are far more concerned about their funding which is threatened by a Trump presidency.We must rephrase this anti-establishment rhetoric to suit our local context and re-energise our support base. We can and we must win elections against the Zanu PF rigging machinery. It's not like we have never been there before, we beat them hands down in 2008.Zanu PF is vulnerable and it knows it. There is too much infighting and a glaring lack of cohesion within the party and its hierarchy. We must utilise this moment, 2018 is not far, elections are upon us and boycotting is not an option. We boycotted all the by-elections and neither did that stop the sun from rising nor did the AU or SADC lose any sleep over it.We must wake up and make hay whilst the sun shines. Zanu PF is already preparing for 2018 elections. It has realised the impact and implications of its fight with the war veterans, which is why it is now frantically trying to woo them back by splashing $20 million on new vehicles.Contrast this with the opposition which is still in disarray. It's less than two years before the next elections and the opposition does not have a plan. Instead of concentrating on making the coalition a reality which is supported by nearly everyone, some members within the opposition are throwing new ideas up for discussion. This proposed National Transitional Authority (NTA) has become nothing but a distraction to the opposition. I have no doubt whatsoever that Tendai Biti and his party have good intentions but we must not forget the road to hell is paved with good intentions.Since this idea is already in the public domain the sooner we can conclude this discussion the sooner we can start concentrating our energies on the creation of the coalition.What is NTA?For the Benefit of those who may not be aware of what this National Transitional Authority is I will recap just a few pointers so that we can be on the same page. Tendai Biti, his party and a few other intellectuals are saying that Zanu PF cannot be defeated through elections under the current conditions. They also think that the opposition is too weak to demand electoral reforms or to mount a credible challenge against Zanu PF 2018. Thus, in their view the only viable way to ensure free and fair elections in the future, is for all political players and civic actors to negotiate and create an authority that can manage the economy and the transitional period. The NTA is to be comprised of apolitical technocrats and guaranteed by AU and SADC.Why would Zanu PF Give Up and Accept this Transitional Authority?This whole proposal hinges on Zanu PF's willingness to give up power and capitulate to this new authority. Forgive my ignorance but I have tried and failed to understand what magic trick would be used to force Zanu to agree to this arrangement.I have asked leading and prominent members of PDP the very same question but no answers were forthcoming. How then do they expect ordinary citizens to buy into this idea when they cannot answer this primary question?AU and SADC are the Guarantors of this NTAExpecting the AU and SADC to play a significant role in this NTA is contrary to reason. I thought Tendai Biti at least learned something during the Global Political Agreement negotiations which were facilitated by AU.Let me put it bluntly, the AU and SADC are neither interested in democracy nor in regime change. Their philosophy is plain and simple 'they believe in the sovereignty of each individual state and in the case of conflict within the state they believe in peace at whatever cost'.As far as they are concerned, Mugabe won democratic and peaceful elections in 2013. The AU and SADC no longer have the will nor the desire to take on Mugabe on this issue. Mind you South Africa which is one of the most influential countries within both the AU and SADC is facing its own challenges. There is massive social unrest in South Africa and Zuma is battling for his own survival in the ANC.I so much doubt that the South Africa government would want to add anything on its plate at the moment.The legitimacy of the TNATendai Biti attempted to answer this question in some video that was posted online. In his view, this question was a non-issue, he said the NTA could be treated in the same way the Global Political Agreement (GPA) was treated in 2008.I find this response quite surprising coming from a democrat, how can the issue of legitimacy be a non-issue in any political discussion? Is he forgetting that the political parties that negotiated the GPA derived their legitimacy from the March 2008 elections which were deemed free and fair by everyone?So, if we are not going to have elections in 2018, where would those who are going to negotiate this NTA derive their mandate from? If the mandate is to be derived from the 2013 election, then Zanu PF has got almost all the political bargaining chips in its hand. In any case, this presents legitimacy issues since the parliament's term of office will be coming to an end.Mugabe will not be negotiated out of powerTo visualise Zimbabwe's present day dilemma we must borrow from Antonio Gramsci who said 'Our crisis consists precisely in the fact that the old is dying and the new cannot be born'.We are all in agreement that Mugabe and Zanu PF are an impediment to Zimbabwe's progress and development yet we have never been able to force them out of power.Mugabe will not be negotiated out of power, he is so much preoccupied with a strong desire to die in power. He is not even prepared to hand over the reins to one of his lieutenants. When are, we going to wake up and smell the coffee?If the opposition is serious in its quest to remove Mugabe and Zanu PF from power, then it must come together without fail. They must sign a memorandum of understanding with one another and start organising protests, demanding clearly stated electoral reforms. A united opposition must go into Zanu PF stronghold campaigning mainly on Zanu PF corruption and exposing the lavish lifestyles they are living at the expense of the rural folk.Let no one be fooled, removing Mugabe and Zanu PF from power is not be a stroll in the park. But this is not a fight we can afford to shy away.----------Whitlaw Mugwiji is a political analyst for- a center for political analysis, commentary and investigative journalism
She's a busy model, TV host, entrepreneur and mom of four.
But Heidi Klum made time for the P.S Arts' 17th Annual Express Yourself fundraiser on Sunday at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica.
The 43-year-old model, who opted for minimal makeup, kept it casual in a leopard print button up with jeans and knee-high boots.
For a good cause: Heidi Klum made time for the P.S Arts' 17th Annual Express Yourself event on Sunday at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica
The former Victoria's Secret Angel showed off her svelte physique in distressed dark wash denim bottoms.
Heidi added a chic black and gold belt as well as boots that grazed her calves.
The mother of four tucked in a leopard printed collared shirt, adding a gold pendant necklace and tasseled handbag.
She styled her tresses loose, choosing a center part and slight wave.
Pretty lady: The 43-year-old model, who opted for minimal makeup, kept it casual in a leopard print button up with jeans
Strike a pose: The former Victoria's Secret model showed off her svelte physique in distressed dark wash denim bottoms; seen with artist Shakuntala Zakheim
The TV host, who wore just a touch of makeup, brought her four children with her to the annual fundraiser.
Heidi has four kids: sons Henry, 11, and Johan, nine, and daughters Helene, 12, and Lou, seven.
The America's Got Talent judge shared a snap of herself with her four children at the event.
Also at the event was Ali Landry, who looked lovely in a striped jumpsuit with Converse sneakers.
Having a good time: Henry, Helene, Johan, Heidi and Lou seen having a blast at the fundraiser
Flawless: Also at the event was Ali Landry, who looked lovely in a striped jumpsuit with Converse sneakers
The model, 43, brought her three children: Estela, nine, Marcelo, five, and Valentin, three to the event.
Actor Adam Scott donned a cuffed blue button up with black jeans and sneakers for the afternoon fundraiser.
Garcelle Beauvais looked pretty in a colorful blazer, adding a white T-shirt, cuffed jeans and velvet boots.
She wore her dark tresses sleek and opted for kohl lined lids, rosy blush and nude glossed lips.
The actress, 49, posed on the carpet with her nine-year-old twin sons Jaid and Jax.
Family first: The model brought her three children: Estela, nine, Marcelo, five, and Valentin, three to the event; from l to r: Valentin, a friend, Estela, Ali and Marcelo
Ready for some fun: Actor Adam Scott donned a cuffed blue button up with black jeans and sneakers for the afternoon fundraiser
What a beauty: Garcelle Beauvais looked pretty in a colorful blazer, adding a white T-shirt, cuffed jeans and velvet boots
Devoted mother to her boys: The actress, 49, posed on the carpet with her nine-year-old twin sons Jaid and Jax
Beautiful family: She wore her dark tresses sleek and opted for kohl lined lids, rosy blush and nude glossed lips
Rebecca Gayheart, 45, donned ripped jeans with a blouse and hat as she posed with daughters Billie, six, and Georgia, four.
Switched At Birth actress Constance Marie, 51, posed with daughter Luna, seven, before heading inside.
Model Tess Holliday arrived wearing a floral blouse with a black skirt and tan sandals.
Actress Katie Leclerc, who also stars on Switched At Birth, wore a floral blouse with black jeans and a denim jacket.
Smiles ear to ear: Rebecca Gayheart, 45, donned ripped jeans with a blouse and hat as she posed with daughters Billie, six, and Georgia, five
Glowing: Switched At Birth actress Constance Marie posed with daughter Luna, seven, before heading inside
Wow: Model Tess Holliday arrived wearing a floral blouse with a black skirt and tan sandals
She triumphed on this year's Great British Bake Off.
And while cookery books and further TV appearances are no doubt beckoning, Candice Brown has no plans to give up the day job just yet.
The PE teacher has revealed to Hello! Magazine that her students were shocked when she returned to work after her win, with many assuming she was a millionaire after she wowed judges Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood with her baking skills.
Looking glam! GBBO winner Candice Brown poses for a chic photoshoot alongside her boyfriend Liam Macaulay for Hello! Magazine
Candice triumphed over rivals Andrew Smyth and Jane Beedle to win the final series of the baking show to air on the BBC before it moves to Channel 4.
The baking enthusiast, 31, said the children have been teasing her about her win, telling Hello! magazine:
'When I went into school after the final was on TV the kids went: 'Why are you in, miss? You're a millionaire!'
Not giving up the day job: The PE teacher has revealed that her students were shocked when she returned to work after her win, with many assuming she was a millionaire
Candice also addressed rumours that she has got engaged to her boyfriend Liam Macaulay, telling the magazine: 'We'll get married one day but there's no rush.'
'We'll have kids too ... Family is very important to us both ... We want it all.'
She added that Macaulay has kept her grounded during her whirlwind rise to fame, saying: 'Liam is my biggest support. He tells me every day that he's so proud of me.'
Winner: Candice triumphed over rivals Andrew Smyth and Jane Beedle to win the final series of the baking show to air on the BBC before it moves to Channel 4
The final of this year's series has become the most-watched programme on television since 2012.
A total of 15.9 million people saw Brown win the BBC cookery competition, new figures show.
Read the full article in Hello! out now.
He's been dashing around New York for the past few days promoting his major new movie Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them.
But on Sunday Eddie Redmayne was back on home soil, jetting into London's Heathrow in time for Monday's big UK premiere of the Harry Potter prequel.
The actor looked a tad tired as he wheeled his overflowing luggage trolley through arrivals after his transatlantic flight.
Magic man: Eddie Redmayne was back on home soil, jetting into London from NYC on Sunday in time for next week's UK premiere of his new film Fantastic Beasts And Where to Find Them
Eddie, 34, dressed smartly for his flight, keeping warm against the chilly UK weather in a tweed jacket layered over a dark sweater.
His trolley was piled high with bags, with the Oscar winner wheeling his own luggage to his onward transportation.
It's been a hectic few days for the leading man, who hit the red carpet for the world premiere of his new movie on Thursday.
Meanwhile, The Theory Of Everything star revealed one of the rehearsal tactics he employed to make sure he was delivering a convincing performance for the Harry Potter enthusiasts, earlier this week.
He's got baggage: The actor looked a tad tired as he wheeled his overflowing luggage trolley through arrivals after his transatlantic flight
Speaking to TimeOut on Wednesday, the star revealed that he spent a lot of time talking to himself whilst travelling on the London underground, pretending to speak to the magical characters that appear in the film.
The actor elaborated on the fact that the creatures in the story were added during post-production.
'Sometimes wed have almost War Horse-style puppets for the rehearsal. But it varied, and sometimes it just involved having little Pickett the Bowtruckle, who is a stick insect, and he would be on my hand.
Dapper: Eddie, 34, dressed smartly for his flight, keeping warm against the chilly UK weather in a tweed jacket layered over a dark sweater
A little pick me up: The Oscar-winner looked to be in fine form as he stepped out in London the following day, despite being up at the crack of dawn
Keeping it casual: Eddie rocked a causal autumnal look as he stepped out into the brisk pre-dawn air for an interview at BBC Radio 1
A pick me up: Clutching a coffee in his hand, the star looked to be wide awake and ready for action
A man for his fans: Despite the cold and the early hour the actor's fans were out in force, though he was more than happy to reward them with a chat and some autographs
On fine form: Eddie was still in great spirits at the end of his busy day promoting the film as he stopped by The One Show
Sitting pretty: The leading man was joined on the sofa by his co-star Katherine Waterston
Good to see you! Eddie enjoyed a close chat with The One Show host Alex Jones
Super chic: Katherine looked fabulous as she headed out and about in London
Leading man: Eddie stars as eccentric wizard Newt Scamander who is the future author of the textbook Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them
'Id be on the tube in London, imagining talking to this thing, and suddenly realise Im being stared at.
On taking on the role in the mega-franchise, the star of The Theory Of Everything earlier revealed that being offered the role without having to audition excelled the pressure he felt playing the part.
'With the thrill comes the paranoia that youre going to get fired after day one,' he explained. 'I was convinced I would lose the job. This is how neurotic actors work! But certainly fear is always there. Its what makes you work harder.'
In town: Eddie's co-star Dan Fogler looked in good spirits as he made his way through Heathrow
On Sunday, a host of actors from this year's independent films converged at the Roosevelt Hotel in Los Angeles for the Indie Contenders Roundtable at AFI FEST.
Audi presented the festival and The Hollywood Reporter held the discussion, which included such celebrities as Chris Pine, Sally Field and Viggo Mortensen.
Kate Beckinsale, who this year starred in the Jane Austen-based Love & Friendship, was a showstopper in a wintry yet LA chic outfit that stressed her slim figure.
Belle of the ball: On Saturday, Kate Beckinsale was a showstopper among the celebrities at the Roosevelt Hotel in Los Angeles for the Indie Contenders Roundtable at AFI FEST
Her tiny black tank top tightened at her impossibly flat midriff and had been tucked into trousers from Rebecca Vallance that draped over her precipitous legs.
Its waistband cinched about her svelte waist, and white polka dots were spattered all over its sheeny black field.
Streaked with what appeared to be highlights, the 43-year-old's wavy brown hair cascaded freely about her black butterfly sunglasses.
Fellow indie star: The Love & Friendship leading lady (left) cosied up to Chris Pine (right) for the cameras
Just pants: That day Beckinsale was spotted at the airport wearing the same Rebecca Vallance Mortimer Palazzo Pants
Sloping neckline: The Star Trek Beyond actor appeared this year in an indie Western entitled Hell Or High Water
At the afternoon reception held for the guests, she cosied up for photos with her FPine, who'd been in Hell Or High Water this year.
The Star Trek Beyond star had allowed a grey-tinged beard to spread over his face, and had slicked his hair back for the day's festivities.
A charcoal jumper with a wide, sloping neckline emphasised his toned figure, and his sleeves were rolled up almost to the elbow, baring his well-built forearms.
Dynamic duo: The 36-year-old (right) also stood for photos with Rebecca Hall (left)
Indie bona fides: The 34-year-old's starred this year in Christine
Black form-fitting trousers rounded out his ensemble, clashing against the white trainers he'd pulled on.
He also did a bit of posing with Rebecca Hall, who's starred in Christine this year and whose neckline fell far enough to bare a bit of her midriff.
Diagonal pale blue stripes wound their way up and down the pink background of her dress, and she accessorised with a drop necklace.
When you got it: Her neckline fell to reveal part of her enviably flat midriff
Her stilettos were largely white, though their laces, which crossed each other over bare skin on each foot, were black.
The 36-year-old Into The Woods actor also got around to standing for photos with Miles Teller, who burnished his independent bona fides this year in Bleed For This.
For Sunday's event, he wore a deep green jacket that appeared to be made of velour and left it open over a white T-shirt.
Hobnobbing: Hall (right) sat for a bit and had a chat with Sally Field (left)
Trio: The Norma Rae star (right) was sat alongside Margo Martindale (left) and Ruth Negga (right)
Like Pine, he'd pulled on a pair of tight black trousers, though he matched them by way of a pair of gleaming black boots.
Hall did some mingling of her own, at one point settling down for a conversation with the Norma Rae star.
The 70-year-old had slipped into a scarlet jumper with its sleeves slightly rolled up, adding a splash of glitz via a long gold pendant.
Social butterfly: The Into The Woods actor (left) also took photos with Miles Teller (right)
Keeping the sign company: This year, he's been in the indie film Bleed For This
Field, who this year appeared in both My Name Is Doris and Hello, let her hair flow freely about her spectacles and had grown in a bit of a fringe.
She'd cut rather a dapper figure on Sunday, selecting a pair of checked slacks patterned in three different shades of grey.
On the bench with them were Margo Martindale, who this year was in the John Kraskinski-directed The Hollars, and Ruth Negga, star of Loving.
That smouldering stare: Adam Driver was also among the celebrities on the panel
New work: The Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens actor had appeared this year as a bus-driving poet in Paterson
The 65-year-old had pulled on a colourful abstract-patterned blouse reminiscent of Doris Roberts, augmenting the look with a pair of charcoal slacks and black shoes.
For her part, the 34-year-old bared her midriff from beneath a sequined crop top with white, blue and black stripes and a gold hem.
Her pleated, baggy pair of navy trousers were cut high enough above her ankle to provide a full view of her chic black stilettos.
Silver fox: Viggo Mortensen had left a couple of buttons of his white dress shirt open over his chest
Golden hem: The Loving star bared her midriff from beneath a sequined crop top with blue, black and white stripes
Meanwhile, Adam Driver's jumper was navy at the front and black at its back and its neckline.
His hair he'd slicked back, and his goatee held its position on his face. Dark grey trousers stressed his toned legs.
The man who this year appeared as a bus-driving poet in the film Paterson popped on a pair of worn-looking black dress shoes for Sunday's occasion.
Ensemble: The ennead of performers all stood together for a group photo outdoors
Seating arrangements: Inside, once the panel discussion got going, the Underworld star found herself sat next to the The Lord Of The Rings actor
Mortensen, who'd led the cast of Captain Fantastic this year, left a couple buttons of his white dress shirt open over his chest.
The 58-year-old buttoned up a dressy charcoal blazer over his top, which he'd teamed with slightly faded zaffre jeans and glinting Persian blue shoes.
At the outdoor reception held by the Roosevelt, the ennead of performers all stood together for a group photo.
Dapper: The Norma Rae star had donned a pair of checked slacks in three shades of grey
Busy woman: This year, she's appeared in both My Name Is Doris and Hello
She has a penchant for more daring and revealing outfits.
And Margo Stilley was sure to maintain her trademark style on Sunday as she flashed plenty of skin at the 62nd Evening Standard Theatre Awards.
The How To Lose Friends and Alienate People actress, 33, headed to the bash at the Old Vic Theatre in a semi-sheer lace midi dress, which racily revealed her bra and a pair of hotpants underneath.
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Vampy: Margo Stilley, 33, headed to the 62nd Evening Standard Theatre Awards on Sunday in a semi-sheer lace midi dress
Flash of skin: The raunchy dress left little to the imagination as it racily revealed her bra and a pair of hotpants underneath
The dress was mostly demure upon first glance, falling softly to knee-length and featuring a soft frill at the top which covered her shoulders.
However the look was made far sexier by its semi-sheer lace material - serving to reveal her much raunchier ensemble underneath.
The actress sported a pair of black hot pants beneath the intricate fabric, which cinched in at her waist to flatter her petite figure and left almost all of her long legs on show.
Sophisticated: The dress was mostly demure upon first glance, falling softly to knee-length and featuring a soft frill at the top which covered her shoulders
All eyes on me: The actress sported a pair of black hot pants beneath the intricate fabric, which cinched in at her waist to flatter her petite figure
While a large frill fell softly across her bust, the flimsy material meant her lacy pink brassiere was left in full display, upping the racy vibe further.
The dress then wrapped around her frame with rigid black piping before skimming her figure softly to its ruched hem.
Keeping the dress the main attraction, Margo kept her accessories simple by adding just a pair of patent pointed court shoes and a matching black choker.
Think pink: While a large frill fell softly across her bust, the flimsy material meant her lacy pink brassiere was left in full display, upping the racy vibe further
Accessories are key: Keeping the dress the main attraction, Margo kept her accessories simple by adding just a pair of patent pointed court shoes and a matching black choker
Protecting herself from the chilly autumn weather, the American beauty layered a chic black coat on top, which was adorned with a glamorous feather stole.
The Reverb star swept her hair back into a chic up do and adding a slick of red lipstick as an elegant finishing touch.
The star is no stranger to revealing outfits - having arrived the Gabrielle's Angels Foundation UK Gala back in 2013 in a floor-length frock that flashed her derriere to the crowds.
EVENING STANDARD THEATRE AWARDS 2016 - THE WINNERS Best Actor: Ralph Fiennes, The Master Builder (Old Vic) & Richard III (Almeida) Natasha Richardson Award for Best Actress: Billie Piper, Yerma (Young Vic) Best Play: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, co-written by Jack Thorne, JK Rowling & John Tiffany (Palace) Best Musical Performance: Glenn Close, Sunset Boulevard (Coliseum) Evening Standard Radio 2 Audience Award for Best Musical: Jesus Christ Superstar, Regents Park Open Air Theatre Milton Shulman Award for Best Director: John Malkovich, Good Canary (Rose Kingston) Best Revival: No Man's Land, Wyndhams (dir Sean Mathias) Best Design: Gareth Fry with Pete Malkin (sound design), The Encounter (Complicite/Edinburgh International Festival/Barbican) Charles Wintour Award for Most Promising Playwright: Charlene James, Cuttin It (Young Vic/Royal Court) Emerging Talent Award: Tyrone Huntley, Jesus Christ Superstar (Regents Park Open Air Theatre) Beyond Theatre Award: Sir David Attenborough for his contribution to broadcasting Editor's Award: Good Chance Theatre Lebedev Award: Sir Kenneth Branagh for his Plays at the Garrick Advertisement
Glamorous: The Reverb star swept her hair back into a chic up do and adding a slick of red lipstick as an elegant finishing touch
Figure-hugging: The dress then wrapped around her frame with rigid black piping before skimming her figure softly to its ruched hem
The brunette, who hails from Conway, South Carolina, is best known for her roles in How To Lose Friends and Alienate People and TV series The Trip, which also starred Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon.
She also famously starred in Michael Winterbottom's film Nine Songs in 2004 - which sparked controversy for its nude scenes and portrayal of sex.
At the time, The Guardian branded it the most explicit film ever to be given a rating.
However she has remained relatively quiet on the acting scene since then, having only partaken in short films since 2014.
The evening at the awards marks the star's return to London - who moved to LA in 2013 after residing long-term in Mayfair.
Hattie Morahan played Rose Coyne, pictured, in the drama of a 1943 boyhood memoir
My Mother And Other Strangers (BBC1)
Rating:
The Next Great Magician (ITV)
Rating:
Roaring low over the meadows of rural Northern Ireland, a Boeing Flying Fortress darkened the skies at the opening of My Mother And Other Strangers (BBC1).
Another thundered overhead, moments later, so low the local children could almost reach up and touch the wheels. Then another.
In the village high street, nobody covered their ears. The earth didnt shake from the battering of the four gigantic propellors on each plane. In fact, the blades of grass in the meadows didnt even tremble.
These werent actual World War II bombers, but computer-generated images, projected on to the scene like a digital slideshow. And they looked about as real as the trampolining foxes in the John Lewis ad.
That proved to be the failure of this entire drama, a boyhood memoir set in 1943. None of it was quite believable.
The situation was historically accurate: American airmen arrived at a base near the north-south border, and stirred tensions with the villagers many of them IRA sympathisers who regarded the British, not the Germans, as their enemy.
But the story was as computer-generated as the aircraft. Hattie Morahan played Rose, who ran the local stores, while her husband Michael (Owen McDonnell) took care of the pub.
ITV's The Next Great Magician was as if a giant trick had been played on the viewer
Rose was English, an outsider, so naturally the Republicans, with their cloth caps, scrawny scarves and glowers, would gather around her shop counter to buy tobacco in a threatening manner.
Even Michael treated her as if she didnt belong. Rose felt lonely and being lonely, went for windswept coastal walks. Where, inevitably, she met a handsome American airforce captain with sad eyes.
Aaron Staton, best known for playing the ad exec with an eyepatch in Mad Men, was the captain. He made a dutiful appearance on BBC Breakfast last Friday, when every question seemed to surprise him.
WEEKEND'S BAD TIMING: Dan Snow trekked to the northernmost peaks of the Rockies at the climax of Operation Gold Rush (BBC2). Trouble was, there were better mountains over on BBC1s Planet Earth II with snow leopards and grizzly bears. Sorry Dan, you peaked on the wrong day. Advertisement
I thought that was just the actors Aw shucks persona, but hes exactly like that in the drama, too, so perhaps he was in character.
While Aaron was being flummoxed by the Irish accents and everything else, the other airmen were wasting no time. They drank the pub dry, they taunted the menfolk over Eires neutrality, and fulfilled every Yanks-go-home cliche short of handing out nylons.
Roses 16-year-old daughter was swept off her innocent feet, of course, to her parents disapproval. She is far too young to even consider a serious relationship, declared Rose, lapsing into the jargon of 21st-century therapists.
Meanwhile, her adolescent son watched it all, silently and quite creepily, as boys planning to write their memoirs do. If you ever find an unspeaking 12-year-old gazing intently at you, beware hes storing you up to be a character in a second-rate costume drama.
Silent, intense schoolboys often grow up to become conjurors, and there were half a dozen of them on The Next Great Magician (ITV) plus one ex-schoolgirl.
Katherine Mills was easily the best of the acts, with a comic routine where she took an unsuspecting member of the public on a date that turned into an on-the-spot wedding.
But the act crowned winners was a couple of Scottish stand-up comedians whose magic consisted of vomiting up liquids. It was not just unpleasant, it was unimpressive. Why they were chosen was not explained. There were no judges, and no public vote: the magicians picked a winner among themselves, in a backroom. Since they were discussing the secrets of magic, we were not privileged to eavesdrop.
That left the whole show feeling like a trick had been played on viewers. And probably it had, since the overall winner will be granted an hour-long TV special ITV bosses are hardly likely to leave that to the whim of a bunch of illusionists.
There were celebrities in the audience to add some pizzazz, though more care should have been taken to book people who actually like watching magic.
She's a busy working mother, juggling raising her two-year-old daughter with her modeling and acting career.
And on Sunday, Neighbours star Jodi Anasta, 31, squeezed in a quick workout at a Sydney park with daughter Aleeia watching on.
For the outing, the single mother showcased her trim pins in tiny exercise shorts before her little girl joined in, enjoying a sweet run along together.
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One hot mumma! On Sunday, Neighbours star Jodi Anasta squeezed in a quick workout at a Sydney park with daughter Aleeia watching on
Showing off a golden tan, the brunette beauty teamed her shorts with a black tank top.
Jodi - who shares Aleeia with her ex, former NRL star Braith Anasta - tied her long locks back off her face and into a pony tail.
She appeared to be wearing minimal makeup and covered her eyes with chic cat eye sunglasses.
Look at me, mummy! For the outing, the single mother showcased her trim pins in tiny exercise shorts before her little girl joined in, enjoying a sweet run along together
Looking fit! Showing off a golden tan, Jodi teamed her shorts with a black tank top and runners
Working up a sweat! She appeared to be wearing minimal makeup and covered her eyes with chic cat eye sunglasses
Apple of their eye: Jodi shares Aleeia with her ex, former NRL star Braith Anasta
Case of the ex: Jodi is seen her with ex-husband Braith Anasta
Jodi dressed her mini-me daughter in black pants and a black T-shirt, with the pair running along the water's edge.
The star appeared in high spirits as she played with Aleeia.
They eventually sat by the water and relaxed, with Jodi pulling off her shoes and socks.
At one point, the stunner was seen doing star jumps laughing as she worked on her figure.
Matching! Jodi dressed her mini-me in black pants and a black T-shirt, with the pair running along the water's edge
Getting into it! At one point, the stunner was seen doing star jumps laughing as she worked on her figure
Time to relax: They eventually sat by the water and relaxed, with Jodi pulling off her shoes and socks
Making exercise fun: The star appeared in high spirits on the day
In April, it was revealed that former Home and Away star Jodi was returning to acting, having scored a gig on Channel 11's Neighbours.
'As an actor in Australia, I am thrilled to be working,' Jodi told The Daily Telegraph as she revealed her new role.
'The biggest hurdle for me right now is "will my brain fit all these scripts in and will I deliver?"'
Jodi made her debut on the soap in July and is playing school teacher Elly Conway.
Speaking about her character, she told the publication at the time: 'She is a little bit wild and has an unconventional way of teaching so all these great layers of naughtiness but with a heart of gold.'
Doing well: In April, it was revealed that former Home and Away star Jodi was returning to acting, having scored a gig on Channel 11's Neighbours
Back to it: 'As an actor in Australia, I am thrilled to be working,' Jodi told The Daily Telegraph as she revealed her new role
On Ramsay street: Jodi made her debut on the soap in July and is playing school teacher Elly Conway
Parental duties: In September, Braith told Yahoo7Be that he is the primary carer for Aleeia and takes care of her from Monday to Friday
In September, Braith told Yahoo7Be that he is the primary carer for Aleeia and takes care of her from Monday to Friday.
'I have her every week, Monday to Friday, I'm a lucky dad and she's amazing, she's a beautiful girl who is growing up quick so I'm very, very lucky,' Braith told the publication.
Jodi films Neighbours in Melbourne while Braith is based in Sydney.
The ex NRL player said that there is absolutely no animosity between he and his ex-wife and they remain friends.
The juggling act: Jodi films Neighbours in Melbourne while Braith is based in Sydney
On good terms: The ex NRL player said that there is absolutely no animosity between he and his ex-wife and they remain friends
Kicking back: Jodi removed her shoes and socks as she basked in the sunshine with Aleeia
Something's funny! The pair both laughed as they sat near some adorable pet pooches
'The amazing part is Jodi and I are 50/50 split down the line, there is no animosity there, we get along really well and Aleeia sees that and sees that we are still friends,' Braith said.
'It's a good relationship and it's a happy one,' he said.
Last month, Braith told Daily Mail Australia he was spending Father's Day with his tiny tot and spoke about how she is growing up in the public eye.
He said he'd give her some advice and will always be there to support her.
Friendly: Braith described his and Jodi's relationship as 'a happy one'
Opening up: Last month, Braith told Daily Mail Australia he was spending Father's Day with his tiny tot and spoke about how she is growing up in the public eye
Sweet: He said he'd give her some advice and will always be there to support her
Hard working: Jodi used to star on Home and Away
Going seperate ways: Braith and Jodi announced their split in December
'I'll be really positive and supportive for her and tell her block it out, not worry about it,' he said.
'I'll be proud of her no matter what, you've just go to reassure that. It's not all about being successful, it's about being happy.'
Braith and Jodi announced their split in December last year, after tying the knot in October 2012.
The pair said at the time they were going to co-parent their little girl.
Moving forward: The pair first tied the knot in October 2012
Their focus: The pair said at the time they were going to co-parent their little girl
She's best known for her role as Sue Ellen Ewing in iconic '80s series Dallas.
But 30 years on, Linda Gray, 76, has returned to TV screens, this time on Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks.
In images released of her first scenes playing Tabby Maxwell-Brown, Linda is seen receiving a phone call in her plush Los Angeles home - the call which will bring her to Chester.
Icon: Dallas star Linda Gray, 76, has returned to TV screens, this time on Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks, in scenes to be aired on Monday on E4
She will first appear in the soap on Monday's episode when Tabby's daughter Marnie Nightingale, played by Lysette Anthony, calls her at her home across the pond.
Marnie found herself in financial trouble after investing in a property development scam and the only person who can bail her out is mother, Tabby.
However, when Marnie's son, James invites Tabby over to the UK, Marnie pales knowing Tabby will not approve of her getting back with ex-husband, Mac Nightingale.
Hollywood: In images released of her first scenes playing Tabby Maxwell-Brown, Linda is seen receiving a phone call in her plush Los Angeles home - the call which will bring her to Chester
We are family: She will first appear in the soap on Monday's episode when Tabby's daughter Marnie Nightingale, played by Lysette Anthony, calls her at her home across the pond
In scenes during Hollyoaks' E4 episode at 7pm on Monday, Marnie bites the bullet and calls Tabby to break the news that her and Mac are back together. But how will Tabby react?
Talking about her Hollyoaks role, Linda said, 'I'm thrilled to be going from one iconic series to another. Hollyoaks viewers are going to love it when Tabby whips up a storm just like Sue Ellen did.'
Hollyoaks executive producer, Bryan Kirkwood said: 'When we came to discuss who could possibly play Marnie's mother the list was very small. Lysette Anthony has fast become a fabulous soap b***h so having Linda Gray play her mother, Tabitha is the perfect fit.'
In trouble: Marnie found herself in financial trouble after investing in a property development scam and the only person who can bail her out is mother, Tabby
Reunited: Linda looks glam as her character meets up with family, including granddaughter Ellie Nightingale, played by Sophie Porley
The actress, 76, is best known for her role as Sue Ellen Ewing, the wife of Larry Hagman's infamous character JR Ewing in the 1980s series.
She is also a former United Nations Goodwill Ambassador and starred as Mrs. Robinson in the Broadway and West End productions of The Graduate in 2001.
Her legs were famously used in the original movie poster for The Graduate, starring Anne Bancroft and Dustin Hoffman.
Linda will first appear on E4, Monday 14th November and Ch4, Tuesday 15th November.
TV icon: Talking about her Hollyoaks role, Linda said, 'I'm thrilled to be going from one iconic series to another
On Saturday night, Nikki Reed was among the hostesses of the 4th Annual Recognising Heroes Awards Dinner and Gala thrown by Unlikely Heroes.
Naturally, her dashing husband Ian Somerhalder was her special guest at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas.
The couple glowed on the red carpet, the 28-year-old dazzling in a pleated floral Tadashi Shoji gown, complete with a zigzagging hem.
Dynamic duo: Nikki Reed and Ian Somerhalder glowed on the red carpet of the 4th Annual Recognising Heroes Awards Dinner and Gala thrown by Unlikely Heroes
Sections of black lace encircled her neckline, which fell off her shoulder, as well as her waist and her elbows.
She'd let her wavy brown hair fall free, and completed her ensemble with a pair of stylish black stilettos.
Meanwhile, her husband of one year cut a dashing figure in a white dress shirt he'd unbuttoned a bit over his chest.
His pale grey blazer had a rather grainy pattern, as well as dark grey stripes running down it, and he'd buttoned it up despite pairing it casually with dark jeans.
Woman of the hour: The 28-year-old, who wore a black chiffon gown by Tadashi Shoji, was one of the hostesses held at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas
Top brass: The former Mrs Paul McDonald (left) also stood for the cameras with Unlikely Heroes' founder Erica Greve
Worn pine green shoes did the trick for him as far as footwear, and he put an arm about his wife for photos once they found themselves sat at a table inside.
Back at the red carpet, the former Mrs Paul McDonald also did a bit of posing with Unlikely Heroes' founder Erica Greve, who matched a black cleavage-baring gown with a black clutch.
In a rather star-studded group photo indeed, Mr and Mrs Somerhalder, as well as Greve, stood alongside hostesses Savannah Chrisley and Anjela Johnson.
A besuited Kenyon Coleman and his wife Katie Coleman, who served as Event Chairs, also joined in on the picture.
Septet: (from left) Event Chairs Kenyon Coleman and Katie Coleman stood alongside hostess Savannah Chrisley, special guest Somerhalder, Reed, Greve and hostess Anjelah Johnson
He is a living legend in the movie world.
So it was only natural that Jackie Chan be recognised by some of the most famous action men of all time.
The 62-year-old actor was the recipient of an honourary Oscar Award at the 8th Annual Governors Awards in Los Angeles on Saturday night.
Game recognise game: Jackie Chan accepted an honourary Oscar Award from Sylvester Stallone at the 8th Annual Governors Awards in Los Angeles on Saturday night
It was a momentous event at the Ray Dolby Ballroom at Hollywood & Highland Center as he was given the shiny gold trophy by fellow iconic action man Sylvester Stallone.
The 70-year-old actor known for his role in the Rocky franchise even raised Jackie's arm and pointed to him as a sign of respect.
The Rumble In The Bronx star definitely gave his all in his performances as he said during his acceptance speech: 'After 56 years in the film industry, making more than 200 films -- I broke so many bones -- finally this is mine!'
Happy night: The 62-year-old actor finally received Hollywood's biggest prize at the event at the Ray Dolby Ballroom at Hollywood & Highland Center
Ecstatic: Jackie said: 'After 56 years in the film industry, making more than 200 films -- I broke so many bones -- finally this is mine!'
Pals: Jackie and the 70-year-old actor hammed it up backstage after the presentation
Champs: After the event Sly took to his Instagram to post this photo with the caption: 'The great Jackie Chan. One of a kind. Hopefully we will be working together real soon! We still very much love what we do even if it still does HURT!'
He also roused the audience with an anecdote about realizing how badly he wanted an Academy Award after going to Stallone's house 23 years earlier and touching, kissing and smelling the American actor's Oscar statuette.
After the event Sly took to his Instagram to share a photo of he and Jackie from the event as he even hinted a possible project together.
The Rambo actor wrote: 'The great Jackie Chan. One of a kind. Hopefully we will be working together real soon! We still very much love what we do even if it still does HURT!'
Touching: Arnold Schwarzenegger also took to the picture-sharing sight to post this throwback photo from their 2004 flick Around The World in 180 Days
Dapper: The 69-year-old actor was at the event in a black suit with a white dress shirt and blue tie
Seal of approval: Tom Hanks also gushed about the native of Hong Kong as he told AFP at the event: 'Jackie Chan has the wisdom of the East and the discipline of a master martial artist.'
They were not the only action movie royalty in attendance as Arnold Schwarzenegger also shared the table with them during the event.
The 69-year-old former Governor of California also took to the picture-sharing social media to post a throwback image on set of 2004 flick Around the World in 80 Days.
He wrote: 'Congratulations to my great friend Jackie Chan on his fantastic honor - after 200 movies, you certainly deserve this Oscar. You always inspire.'
Jackie's Rush Hour co-star Chris Tucker was also on stage as he recognised the veteran actor for his contributions to the film industry.
Dynamic duo:Jackie's Rush Hour co-star Chris Tucker was also on stage as he recognised the veteran actor for his contributions to the film industry
Bonding: The two had a grand time on stage together
Working relationship: The 45-year-old actor was more than happy to be there for his pal
Tom Hanks also gushed about the native of Hong Kong as he told AFP at the event: 'Jackie Chan has the wisdom of the East and the discipline of a master martial artist.'
Chan, known for his comic timing and acrobatic fighting style, has appeared in around 200 movies since becoming a child actor in his native Hong Kong in the 1960s.
He broke out to American audiences with 1996's Rumble In The Bronx and has made his name with films including Shanghai Noon, The Tuxedo, Kung Fu Panda, The Karate Kid and the Rush Hour franchise.
Showing his style: Jackie looked handsome in all black
Opinion / Columnist
Are we truly equal to exercise the democratic right to vote and in determining government policy?The answer to that is clearly that we are not. It is judicious in the Zimbabwean context to opine that the taxpayer and the youth should ideally be at the forefront of determining government policy. Their voice must be heard through decisive and active participation in the country's democratic processes through voting.The reason is predicated on the fact that, the burden of financing a government rests solely on the shoulders of the taxpayer. The government debts are on the shoulders of the youth. The youth and the taxpayer must truly vote to ensure that they have a government they desire. Subsequent to voting they must direct that the fruits of their labour, present and future, be used for the economic and social health aspirations they resonate with.The fundamental flaw and evil of the "one man one vote" model is the fact that the taxpayer is forced to pay for ideals diametrically opposed to their own. This is true in Zimbabwe as it is without doubt that the non-tax payers or those who are beneficiaries of the taxpayers sweat (often called government largesse) have their ideals driving government policy.It is politically expedient and morally reasonable to afford each and every eligible citizen the right to vote yet the defect of the same is the trap of people voting themselves benefits at the expense of others. Frederic Bastiat said, live "the great fiction through which everybody endeavours to live at the expense of everybody else."A man should have a right to the fruits of his labour. It is viciously wrong to take the money of rational economic men to support ideals they are absolutely opposed to, such an intrusion by force which is a violation of individuals' rights. Yet the Zimbabwean youths,taxpayers,self-employed and employers have abdicated their role to stop thieves,corrupt,incompetent, and semi illiterate politicians lording over the society .It is the voters with rights and but no attendant obligations that direct government policy. Apathy is winning the political contest. The apathetic eligible voters are supported in this unfairness by those who vote for benefits and rights devoid of expenses and obligations.The political parties must drive a disruptive message that when it's said the "government" has assumed a US$1.3 billion RBZ debt it's a euphemism that they have encumbered the youth with a debt to be supported by future tax payments. The same applies to the IMF, AfDB, IMF, AFREXIM bank debts and domestic borrowings by the government. Soon they will make the youth assume debts for US$200million bond notes, Tel-One, Air Zimbabwe, NRZ and many other parastatals. The same applies to the cost of corruption.The youth have no one to blame but themselves for failing to make an electoral impact by voting for government whose policies they ascribe to. The youth and taxpayer unfortunately sit on terraces doing key board analysis and social media activism. They don't do that in UMP, instead they vote in numbers.Treatment of every post-election through useless protests by cry bullies is just plainly an emotional breakdown, freak-out and crippling feeling of failing to cope with an electoral defeat self-inflicted by apathy. Even if protesting cry bullies burn tyres, break windows, stop traffic in Robert Mugabe way, get international attention and cause some level of sanctions, we all know that it achieves nothing .We all have to agree that apathy won the elections. Despite the anger Robert Mugabe is our president and ZANU PF presides over our country.The assemblage of inconsequential social media activists and protestors is an act of simply writhing in feigned agony akin to demanding pudding before dinner. Activist including but not limited to NERA, #this flag, #ourconstitution and many others should be reminded that by 2018 they must serve a starter to their constituency. The starter is that of ensuring a level playing field by deploying a message that drive people register as voters.The politicians and their activists' appendages must additionally craft a good and irresistible message to drive people to actually exercise their vote.Its these actions that are the first stages in levelling the playing field before dinner is served. Making people claim their cote is a good starter.Hashtag movements are led by people who are not serious and rational but rather by people who are simply happy to be unhappy. The movements should rather expend intellect and energy in deploying a message to fight apathy. Just to put this into context out of over the three million potential voters in Bulawayo and Harare just over a one million are registered voters.In a society where people are presumed equal the refusal to exercise a vote is an action in complicity to give a voice to those who choose to vote. If an illiterate or corrupt politician becomes your MP, a million hashtag will change nothing. The MP will simply lord over you despite your level of literacy or morals.Our current system of seems not to be effective. It would be ridiculous to allow the ignorant be able to limit how smart you are, the weak to place shackles on your arms to limit your strength, the short to legally force you to stoop or the unattractive to require the attractive to wear hoods over their faces. We would dismiss this out of hand as absurdity and yet we allow those who pay no taxes to have a greater voting voice, as well as those who have little understanding of political, economic, foreign policy or financial issues to lord over the direction of our countryIt's telling that the employer and the employee continue to invest in "democracy at the workplace" with monthly contributions to employee unions and employer confederations. The employer and the employee have little or no interest in sponsoring national democratic processes only until there is no industry to employ and industry to be employed.It is critical that the employer and the employee being stakeholders of the national discourse should use the same model to allow cause voluntary monthly contributions to political parties that speak to employee or employer aspirations.Strength of political parties just like workers unions is determined by their financial back bones. As it is, most of political parties speaking to taxpayer and youth aspirations are broke whilst there is an obsession with democracy at the work place.After voting the government does not reciprocate by treating the voters as equals, choosing instead to tax some more than others (some not at all), to provide different levels of aid and to apply laws and regulations differently. Government morphs from the protector of an environment where equal opportunity exists to the arbiter of "equality." It is legally sanctioned inequality in pursuit of equality. It's great to vote to direct government policy and then hold the parties to their electoral manifestos.The knowledge that SI 64 of 2006 was just an instrument to thank employers who "lobbied" the government and sponsored a certain political dispensation is a sure way to inform industry, taxpayers and the youth that it's never a level playing field unless you level the field by sponsoring your ideals and participating in the voting process and sponsoring your parties.The challenge that we seem to have is that political parties so far seem impotent and incompetent to coin new and disruptive messages against voter apathy. The youth and the taxpayer should be the centre of this new message.In 2013 I didn't hit the streets in protest as I accepted the will of the electorate and I sucked it up. It sucks to lose. Impotent rage has little results whilst all we all do is being key board analyst and social media activists. The majority of us simply do not vote for the change we wantIt is just my view and as with all views, it comes with both upside and downside aspectsBrian Sedze is the Chairman of Africa Innovation Hub and President of Free Enterprise Initiative. He can be contacted on brian.sedze@gmail.com
She announced she was expecting a second child via a surrogate in July.
And Sally Obermeder celebrated on Sunday with a baby shower.
The Daily Edition host, 43, invited her close friends and media 'besties' for the stylish event held at Darling Point.
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'My heart is full of love': Daily Edition co-host Sally Obermeder celebrates baby shower with media 'besties' on Sunday in Darling Point after announcing she was expecting via surrogate following being cleared of breast cancer in 2012
Stylish Seven ladies! Sally invited her close friends and media 'besties' for the stylish event, including Samantha Armytage
She documented the 'amazing afternoon' by uploading more than 20 images and videos to Instagram.
In the snaps there were chopsticks with heart-shaped labels laid out for each guest to enjoy the Asian dining experience.
Sally captioned one of the images, in part: 'My heart is full of love and my belly is full of yum cha. If that's not the most perfect day I don't know what is.'
'The most perfect day': Sally captioned one of her images, in part: 'My heart is full of love and my belly is full of yum cha'
Personal touch: In the snaps there were chopsticks with heart-shaped labels laid out for each guest to enjoy the Asian dining experience
Bloomin' beautiful! The table was decorated with a crisp-white theme and a beautiful floral centerpiece provided by Seven presenter Kylie Gillies
The table was decorated with a crisp-white theme and a beautiful floral centerpiece provided by Seven presenter Kylie Gillies.
Referring to her belly again in the post, she added: 'Baby Obermeder might not be in my belly but he/she is absolutely in our heart.'
Sally is expecting her surrogate child in the coming weeks and has openly spoken about the process.
Guests of honour: She highlighted some of her guests in an Instagram image slideshow, claiming they were her 'besties' joining in on the celebration of 'Baby O'
Media gal pals: Among her media pals was Channel Seven journalists Samantha Armytage and Adene Cassidy, as well as Channel Seven producers
In a large slideshow of images, the TV personality showcased the majority of the guests in attendance.
Among her media pals was Channel Seven's Samantha Armytage and Adene Cassidy, as well as Channel Seven producers.
She captioned the Instagram 'Flipagram' production that highlighted her Sunday: 'Most amazing afternoon with besties celebrating the impending arrival of Baby O.'
It's a surprise! The mother is still referring to her soon-to-be child as 'Baby O' to avoid revealing its gender to friends, fans and family
'Some thought the colour was a hint': Sally said her light-blue and purple frock made guests think she might be expecting a particulate gender
While the mother is still referring to her soon-to-be child as 'Baby O' to avoid revealing the gender, she claims guests saw her outfit as a potential clue.
She wore a semi-sheer dropped hemline dress with bell sleeves that rustled in the breeze as she twirled.
In a video where she is seen twirling in the light blue design, she said: 'Thank you @leemathewsau for this most perfect dress for the baby shower....loved it ... some thought the colour was a hint. Hmmmmm.'
Cute announcement! Sallys four-year-old daughter Annabelle helped announce with the announcement that they'd be expecting another child by holding up a sign that read 'I'm going to be a big sister'
The media personality, who was cleared of breast cancer in 2012, announce she would be expecting a second child in July, with a sweet family photo on Instagram.
Sallys four-year-old daughter Annabelle could be seen holding up a sign, confirming the new addition to the family.
The sign read: 'I'm going to be a big sister.'
Trying for a sibling: Sally has previously spoken out about her struggles with trying to conceive a sibling for her daughter
The brunette beauty added in the post that she was thrilled to be welcoming her second child after previously speaking about her past struggles to conceive a sibling for her daughter.
Marcus and Sally wed in 2001 and the day before Sally gave birth to Annabelle in 2011, she was diagnosed with breast cancer.
After eight months of chemotherapy, she was given the all clear.
She's the Sunrise presenter who is known for her mostly conservative style.
But Samantha Armytage shook things up on Sunday and put on a leggy display as she stepped out in Darling Point for a friend's baby shower.
Her very little black dress gave onlookers a glimpse of the presenter's bronzed pins, suggesting she's been making the most of the warm Sydney weather.
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Leggy display: Sunrise presenter Samantha Armytage flaunted her bronzed legs as she stepped out for a friend's baby shower in Darling Point on Sunday
The 40-year-old teamed her thigh skimming black dress with a pair of black strappy flats, adding to her relaxed look.
She added a touch of glamour by accessorising with thick silver and gold bangles, large gold hoop earrings and a pair of rounded aviators.
To add a splash of colour, the media personality painted her nails with a bright red polish.
Relaxed weekend: Sam paired the little black dress with a pair of strappy black flats to complete her summery look
Accessories: She added a touch of glamour by accessorising with thick silver and gold bangles, large gold hoop earrings and a pair of rounded aviators
Sam pulled her blonde tresses back off her face and secured them in a high ponytail.
It appeared things were looking up for the breakfast television star, who appeared happy as she leaned over a balcony.
Using one hand to hold a glass of champagne, Sam held the other on her hip as she peered off the ledge with a curious look on her face.
What's going on down there? With a glass of champagne in one hand and the other hand on her hip, Sam stood on a balcony looking bemused at what was going on below
The baby shower was for fellow Channel Seven presenter Sally Obermeder.
The 43-year-old was diganosed with stage three breast cancer just a day before giving birth to her first child, Annabelle Grace, in 2011, reported the Daily Telegraph.
Now clear of the disease, Sally wanted to extend her family.
She will be having her second child by surrogate, as doctors told her it was 'far too dangerous' for the television personality to conceive on her own, according to News.com.au.
Guy Sebastian has revealed that none of The X Factor Australia judges get along.
The 35-year-old made the admission on The Morning Show, after he said recently that he has beef with co-star and rapper Iggy Azalea.
Guy was quizzed by The Morning Show's co-host Larry Emdur if all the judges are getting along, with Guy saying: 'Not really, no, especially after last night.'
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Awkward! Guy Sebastian has revealed on The Morning Show on Monday, that none of The X Factor Australia judges get along
Guy's short and sweet response made Larry's co-star Kylie Gillies burst out laughing as Guy chuckled.
He added during the chat that on Sunday's episode, he 'cracked it a little' because he gets annoyed when the other judges tell their acts to not listen to criticism.
'Every time you give them a bit of constructive criticism, the other judges take it personally,' Guy said.
The line-up: Seen (from L to R) are judges Iggy Azalea, Adam Lambert, Guy, Mel B and host Jason Dundas
'They always go, "don't listen to that," but I think that's the worst message to give to kids...You've got to listen to the criticism,' he said.
On Sunday, Guy and Iggy appeared to have a little tiff when Iggy - who has no remaining acts - joked that Guy Sebastian should have been nicer to her throughout the show as she now has the swing vote.
'Iggy, all your acts are gone on the show. You know are in a very powerful position, you are the unbiased judged,' said host Jason Dundas.
'Guy should have sucked up to me a little bit harder,' Iggy responded quickly.
Being honest: Guy was quizzed by The Morning Show's co-host Larry Emdur if all the judges are getting along, with Guy saying: 'Not really, no, especially after last night'
Guy who didn't seem unimpressed by this, added: 'Revenge? Is that what it is?'.
The father of two took another swipe at Iggy when Jason asked her if she was 'excited' about her new role on the panel.
Guy, who mentioned that he let Iggy have 'a mouthful' for sending Chynna home, said: 'I think the title is "The loser", the first "loser" of X Factor.'
'You will be the second loser. I will make sure that he is on the loser team,' she quipped.
The claws were out! On Sunday, Guy and Iggy appeared to have a little tiff
Speaking to The Daily Telegraph, Guy questioned the blonde haired rapper's interest in the show, saying her behaviour says otherwise.
'I think it reflects poorly on the show when it seems someone is not invested in it. That's as narky as I'm going to get,' he said last week.
He's also previously told the publication they are just complete opposites.
'We're just not similar people at all and I definitely have to bite my tongue,' he said.
Not holding back: Speaking to The Daily Telegraph , Guy questioned the blonde haired rapper's interest in the show, saying her behaviour says otherwise
Meanwhile, judge Adam Lambert told Nova 96.9's Fitzy & Wippa that Iggy is a 'little crazy'.
'She's just a tough nut to crack... and she is a nut! She's a little crazy,' he said.
Former Spice Girl Mel B, she downplayed rumours of a feud between her and Iggy to Who Magazine.
'I come from a group that preached girl power. It isn't fair to presume we're not going to get along just because we're both women,' the Mel said.
She added: 'People want to pit us against each other... but I've met Iggy before and she's lovely. I think we're going to have fun.'
She attended an Unlikely Heroes event in Dallas just one day earlier with husband Ian Somerhalder.
And Nikki Reed somehow found a way to stun twice on a weekend in completely different cities.
The 28-year-old looked gorgeous as she attended American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) SoCal's 2016 Bill of Rights Dinner in Beverly Hills on Sunday night.
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Stunning: Nikki Reed looked gorgeous as she attended American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) SoCal's 2016 Bill of Rights Dinner in Beverly Hills on Sunday night
She rocked a racy off-the-shoulder number at the event held at the Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons Hotel in the ritzy Los Angeles neighbourhood.
The Twilight actress sported the white top featuring a large grid design along with flowy black trousers.
She teamed the look with a pair of strappy black leather heels while holding on to a matching clutch.
Pretty: The 28-year-old actress rocked a racy off-the-shoulder number at the event held at the Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons Hotel in the ritzy Los Angeles neighbourhood
Nikki accessorised with multiple rings on her fingers along with stud earrings.
Her straight, medium length brunette tresses were worn down flowing over her shoulders as her natural, complimentary make-up was topped off with a swipe of bright red lip.
She was not the only star at the event as she was joined by actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt.
Dapper: Joseph Gordon-Levitt looked good in a dark grey suit
Marcia, Marcia, Marcia! Brady Bunch actress Maureen McCormick was also at the event in a black top with a shiny metallic silver midi skirt
Evergreen: The 60-year-old actress looked fantastic at the event
The 35-year-old actor looked dapper in a charcoal grey shirt with a brown checked design.
He finished off the look with a crisp white dress shirt, brown tie and matching leather dress shoes.
Brady Bunch actress Maureen McCormick was also at the event in a black top with a shiny metallic silver midi skirt.
The ACLU Bill Of Rights Dinner is an annual event where the organisation comes together to celebrate its victories, honour its leaders and inspire the community.
Rebecca Gayheart is a busy mom to two little girls.
But the 45-year-old still made time to support the P.S Arts' 17th Annual Express Yourself fundraiser on Sunday at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica.
The Jawbreaker star donned a wide-brimmed hat and cheeky tee that read, 'You had me at bonjour,' to the children's charity.
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Showing support! Rebecca Gayheart attended the P.S Arts' 17th Annual Express Yourself fundraiser on Sunday at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica
The Beverly Hills, 90210 alum attended the star-studded event with her daughter Billie, six, in tow and a friend.
She teamed the black shirt with light was distressed cropped skinny jeans that bared holes in each knee.
The ripped denims flashed a glimpse of her lean, slender limbs beneath.
'Hello' hot mama! The 45-year-old actress donned a wide-brimmed hat and cheeky tee that read, 'You had me at bonjour,' to the children's charity
Leggy blonde! The Beverly Hills 90210 alum slipped into distressed skinny jeans which encased her slender stems
Rebecca skipped the cosmetics and allowed her youthful appearance and natural beauty to shine through.
A small leather designer handbag with black and white Adidas sneakers rounded out her casual chic ensemble.
Little Billie looked precious as she held her mum's hand while they took to the red carpet.
She wore a white sundress with thin black stripes, light-up gold sneakers from POP Shoes and her blonde hair in relaxed curls.
Girls' day out! The Jawbreaker actress attended the star-studded event with her daughter Billie, six, in tow and a friend
Rebecca and her husband of 12 years, Eric Dane, 44, share Billie and four-year-old Georgia together.
Also in attendance at the benefit was Heidi Klum, Ali Landry, Garcelle Beauvais, plus-sized model Tess Holliday and Switched At Birth actresses Constance Marie and Katie Leclerc.
The afternoon gave adults and children an opportunity sample signature bites from Los Angeles best restaurants and caterers.
According to their site, the event 'ensures that P.S. Arts will continue to thrive in a community that encourages creativity and the opportunity for all children, regardless of background, to express themselves.'
Playboy model Ashley Kirk denied ever dating Geoffrey Edelsten, but now even more texts between her and the disgraced Australian millionaire have emerged to prove it.
The messages show the 26-year-old begging for help with her bills as she sends the wealthy doctor her 'press kit' because she needs 'to make millions'.
Geoffrey has confirmed to Daily Mail Australia that the messages are authentic, and has expressed his disappointment in the whole situation, which saw the woman deny they were ever together.
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Drama: New text messages between Geoffrey Edelsten and Ashley Kirt show the 26-year-old begging him to send her money to pay for her bills
'She just told lies,' he explained on Monday. 'I don't have anything to do with her anymore, I don't respect her, and that's it.'
In one bizarre message, Ashley claimed 'everyone says I look like Margot Robbie' and that she was almost cast in the Wolf of Wall Street by Jordan Belfort himself because of it.
The new series of texts, which include messages from Ashley requesting he cover her phone bill because 'it's very expensive every time u call me (sic) ', also feature a number of risque photographs of the busty blonde.
Upset: Geoffrey confirmed that the messages are authentic, and has expressed his disappointment in the whole situation, which saw the woman deny they were ever together
Out there: The texts include messages from Ashley requesting he cover her phone bill because 'it's very expensive every time u call me (sic) ', as well as a number of risque photographs
One of the sexy pictures sent to Geoffrey included Ashley stretching out across her white sheeted bed, dressing in nothing but a pair of white fish-net stockings.
Another was a topless mirror selfie of the busty model, who covered her ample assets in the picture by wrapping her arm around her chest region.
At one stage in early October, Ashley's requests for money were denied, and she immediately threatened to leave her older boyfriend.
'Babe I'm really in debt w credit from with hospital bills can u help me please (sic),' she wrote.
Busty: One of the sexy pictures sent to Geoffrey included Ashley posing topless in a mirror selfie but she covered her ample assets by wrapping her arm around her chest region
Cash: At one stage in early October, Ashley's requested Geoffrey to send her $5000 to cover her hospital debt, despite him sending her $2500 days earlier for 'urgent matters'
Geoffrey responded saying he would try to help out, and asked for a minimum amount he could send her.
The model immediately requested $5,000 because her power had been shut off, but when her boyfriend responded that it's too much money and offers to send a smaller amount, she reacts poorly.
'What can u [sic] do? I have tried to stay with you and have been loyal,' she stated.
After much convincing, Geoffrey caved and sent his partner $2,500 to cover 'urgent matters'.
Needy: She regularly told the businessman her phone had been maxed out because of the hefty bills, leaving him offering to pay her bills
Beauty sleep: In the set of messages, Ashley professed her love, after what appears to have been an unsolicited five am phone call: 'Sorry I just love u so much (sic)'
'I sent you today $2500 for urgent matters and I'm saving Iasik...Where will we meet when I'm there next week,' he messaged her.
She quickly replied: 'Thank u so much babe u have no idea what that means to me (sic).'
In the latest set of messages, much like the last, Ashley is not afraid to profess her love.
In one set, after what appears to have been an unsolicited five am phone call, she apologises for waking him up with a text saying: 'Sorry I just love u so much (sic)'.
Gushing: At a later date, she admitted to Geoffrey that 'I love u now. More (sic)'
Improvement: Throughout the range of back and forth messages between the pair, Geoffrey gloated to the busty beauty about transforming her life into something 'fantastic'
'What can u do? I have tried to stay with you and have been loyal (sic),' she continued.
Throughout the range of back and forth messages between the pair, Geoffrey gloated to the busty beauty about transforming her life into something 'fantastic'.
She explained to the former doctor she wants to be a 'successful business woman,' he replied: 'I believe you will be a fantastic success'.
'I love you Ashley and I want to do all I can for you and be part of your life,' he continued to gush.
Goals: She explained to the former doctor she wants to be a 'successful business woman,' he replied: 'I believe you will be a fantastic success'
Meet up: Geoffrey also took the opportunity to gloat about his 'own career', describing himself as an 'experienced doctor, lawyer and celebrity to star'
In more embarrassing text messages that were leaked late last week, the pair's relationship seemed to be one in which she hoped to make a million dollars from a TV appearance with the doctor.
'I want to make lots of money,' Ashley, 26, said in one text, which Geoffrey, 73, later confirmed to Daily Mail Australia are authentic. 'So I never have to be poor ever again.'
Later in the text thread, the pair discussed an interview with A Current Affair, for which Ashley seemed disappointed to find that she would not be getting 'a million' for it.
'Any idea what they would offer... Hopefully it's a lot,' she asked Geoffrey.
Helping hand: Geoffrey also attempted to help the beauty gain a working permit in Australia so she could relocate to Melbourne to be with him
'I wish it will be much more modest as a 20 minute segment of show,' Geoffrey replied.
'So not a million,' the wannabe actress asked with a crying face emoji, 'well that sucks'.
'Why ruin my name for less would it be half(sic)?' she added.
Other messages saw the one-time Playboy model slamming Geoffrey's ex-wife Gabi Grecko, who is believed to have become involved with the doctor after meeting him on a 'sugar daddy' website.
'I'm a great girl I really am,' she wrote, 'not like ur ex she sounds horrible (sic).'
Jetting off in style: He also attempted to organise flights on an Air United flight for Ashley
Throughout the interaction, Geoffrey told Ashley that he loved her, and she said it back.
The leaked text messages also suggested that they were trying to arrange the transport of her pet to Australia, so she could be with Geoffrey in Melbourne, who gushed about his beloved home town.
Speaking to Daily Mail Australia via telephone, Geoffrey claimed he did not meet Ashley on a 'Sugar Daddy' website but rather at a Sofitel hotel.
He also denied leaking the texts himself, though admitted he had 'told many friends about them' and one might have leaked them online.
Crossing paths: Speaking to Daily Mail Australia via telephone, Geoffrey claimed he did not meet Ashley on a 'Sugar Daddy' website but rather at a Sofitel hotel
Geoffrey, who is 47 years Ashley's senior, confirmed to that he was dating the glamour model last month.
'We have a lot in common and there is sensational chemistry between us,' said the former medic.
'She's gorgeous, articulate and fun and is attracted to me, I believe, because I've a lot to offer,' he added.
But following the comments, Ashley strongly denied she was romantically involved with Geoffrey - and demanded he apologise.
Ashley had told previously told the Herald Sun: 'I feel taken advantage of and I definitely feel used. I'm not going after a 73-year-old man. He's been going after me.
Dating: Geoffrey, who is 47 years Ashley's senior, confirmed to that he was dating the glamour model last month but she later denied the claims
Awkward: Ashley had told told the Herald Sun : 'I feel taken advantage of and I definitely feel used. I'm not going after a 73-year-old man. He's been going after me'
'He's made me look like a gold digger and I'm completely not. I'm upset about that. I never wanted money. I never said that,' she added.
In Ashley's version of events, Geoffrey first reached out by asking her to play one of his ex-wives in a film about his life.
When asked what he thought of Ashley's complaints about being labelled a gold digger, he responded, 'she is'.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted Ashley's rep for comment and they declined to comment.
Reasoning: In Ashley's version of events, Geoffrey first reached out by asking her to play one of his ex-wives in a film about his life
His past: Geoffrey previously said he met Ashley on a business trip to America a couple of months ago, following his split with ex-wife Gabi Grecko (pictured)
Geoffrey previously said he met Ashley, who hails from Michigan, on a business trip to America a couple of months ago.
Geoffrey met his ex-wife Gabi Grecko in New York City in 2015.
Daily Mail Australia later confirmed that Gabi and Geoffrey actually met on a 'Sugar Daddy' website, which connects young women to rich older men.
Geoffrey said he met Ashley in Los Angeles, but the circumstances are not yet clear.
Meanwhile, it appears Ashley is Geoffrey's type, with the businessman's estranged wives, Brynne and Gabi, being over 40 years his junior.
Fans of Edgar Wright can rest assured that work on his forthcoming film Baby Driver is chugging way.
Lily James, its leading lady, was photographed for the first time on Sunday shooting a scene for the crime comedy in Atlanta.
She was dressed in the denim coat she's been spotted in before whilst on set for the film, as well as an adorable yellow dress.
Roadside set: Lily James was photographed on Sunday shooting a scene from her upcoming film Baby Driver in Atlanta
Her voluminous and wavy strawberry blonde hair fell free over that denim coat, which featured a large collar and wool lining.
Beneath it was a bright yellow lacy dress, which was cut off above the knee to give a generous view of the 27-year-old's svelte legs.
Grey socks barely protruded out from under her dark brown boots as she stood on what looked like a roadside set covered with black tarpaulins.
The shoulders of giants: Baby Driver is the forthcoming feature written and directed by Edgar Wright and stars the 27-year-old with such names as Ansel Elgorg, Jon Hamm and Jamie Foxx
Ansel Elgort will lead the cast as a man who gets rooked into driving the getaway car for what appears to be an inevitably disastrous heist.
Other members of the celebrity-strewn cast include Jon Hamm, Kevin Spacey, Jon Bernthal, Jamie Foxx and Eiza Gonzalez.
Baby Driver is slated for release in American cinemas on 11 August 2017, and will open in Britain a week later.
A ways off yet: The crime comedy's slated for an American release 11 August 2017 and will open in British cinemas a week later
It is an exciting time for the British actress as rumours of a big-screen outing for Downton Abbey have been circulating since before the much-loved period drama ended in 2015.
Lily recently added more fuel to the fire when she revealed she 'hopes' to be involved in the film during an interview on Lorraine.
Kim Kardashian was warned by her mother Kris Jenner that she could die trying to give birth again on Sunday's episode of Keeping Up With The Kardashians.
The 36-year-old reality star was considering having a surrogate carry her third child with rapper Kanye West.
'The best thing is that I could have a new baby and have no one know, and live my life for a good year before we announce it,' she told Kris.
Surrogacy option: Kim Kardashian considered having a third child via surrogacy on Sunday's episode of Keeping Up With The Kardashians
Kim had decided that she would like to have a third child, despite her traumatic pregnancies and births thus far.
She visited a doctor to see if her body could 'withstand' another pregnancy.
He told her that the risks were real.
'You could bleed to death,' chimed in Kris.
Some concern: Kris Jenner shared her concerns about using a surrogate
Medical opinions: Kim met with two doctors as she explored pregnancy options
But Kim was set on having another baby because of Saint West.
'He's so cute I'm like ''Oh my god I need to have another one'',' she said, before rushing off to get a second opinion.
The second doctor also warned her about 'postpartum hemorrhage' and suggested a surrogate.
So cute: The reality star said her cute son Saint inspired her to have another one
'A surrogate makes sense,' he told her.
'I want to have my own baby but I truly don't know if my body can handle it one more time,' she told her sister Kourtney.
Kourtney told her that if she used a surrogate 'no one would have to know'.
Secret baby: Kourtney planted the idea that Kim could have a baby in secret via surrogacy
'You could have a baby for an entire year and no one would know,' she mused.
Kim clearly liked the idea and began investigating further.
She then met with a woman called Natalie Gerber, who had used a surrogate for twins after having a child naturally.
Great idea: Kim liked the idea of having a baby in secret
'If I had a surrogate would I love them the same? That scares me,' Kim asked.
Natalie, who had also birthed one child, told her that it wouldn't be a problem.
'It's not the easy way out,' she assured her.
Good question: Natalie Gerber answered Kim's questions about surrogacy
'I have to talk it over with my husband, just see what I believe God is, like, putting in my life and what is meant to be for me,' she decided.
Wearing her new grill for the first time Kim talked it over with her mother.
'It's distracting talking to you with the grill, I don't know whether to look at your grill or your boobs,' said Kris, 61.
New grill: Kim talked to Kris about considering surrogacy wearing a grill
The show had opened with Khloe, 32, being courted by Snoop Dogg's 19-year-old son Cordell Broadus.
'I'm taking you out to eat. What you want some crab or some steak, what you want?' he asked.
She decided to make him 'work for it'.
Smooth move: Cordell Broadus asked Khloe Kardashian out
Rap star: Snoop Dogg and Kendall were working on a project together
Model Kendall Jenner was with will.i.am, shooting a video for Where Is The Love.
'It's a direct response to the gun violence that has been happening recently,' said Kendall, 21.
She lip synced to the song while her mother bopped along in the production booth.
Gun violence: Kendall participated in a will.i.am music video related to gun violence
Over lunch Kendall and Khloe decided to use their 'platform' for social change.
'I'm very passionate about stricter gun laws,' said Kendall, who said she felt 'obligated' to take action.
Khloe suggested a family 'pow wow' so they could all pick one issue to advocate.
Taking a stand: Khloe and Kendall decided to use their platform for social change
Rob warned Kendall that if she spoke out she could face being trolled.
'If you get involved in that type of stuff you're definitely going to get some backlash, a lot of people have completely different views that are opposite to you, so you're going to get a lot of hate,' he told her.
'You're a young, powerful woman so you gotta be prepared for the negativity as well,' said 29-year-old Rob.
Be prepared: Rob Kardashian told Kendall to be prepared for a backlash
'I feel like if I get involved it's going to do more damage than actually help,' she pondered.
Kim advised her to 'stand up for what she believes' but expect a lot of 'hate'.
They met with women from Moms Demand Action For Gun Sense In America.
Meeting up: Kim invited Moms Demand Action For Gun Sense In America to meet with her and her family
'The more we can get this message out the better,' said Kim.
'F*** the backlash,' she added.
Lucy McBath whose son Jordan Davis, 17, was shot and killed at a gas station in Florida was among the mothers who they met.
Surviving mother: Lucy McBath talked about her teenage son Jordan Davis who was shot and killed in Florida
Senseless death: Jordan was shot at a Florida gas station during an argument about loud music
She gave a rousing story about the 2012 senseless death of the black student who was gunned down during an argument over loud music.
Relatives of victims killed in massacres such as Sandy Hook and San Bernardino also spoke out, leaving Kourtney in tears.
Kendall decided it would be 'irresponsible' of her not to speak out.
Getting emotional: Kourtney, Kris, Kim and Khloe listened intently
Late arrival: Kendall arrived late to the meeting but was glad she took a stance
'I'm going to go for it,' she resolved.
Kris Jenner decided to film her mother Mary Jo Houghton, 82, talking about her life in a long interview for posterity.
'My mom is my best friend,' she said, noting that her mother has many 'interesting stories' that she'd like to preserve in a 'legacy video'.
Legacy video: MJ laughed while recording her legacy video
Kris wanted Anderson Cooper to do the interview, but Khloe thought Kris should do it herself.
'Anderson is hot, she loves Anderson,' protested Kris.
The family matriarch was worried she'd cry all the way through it.
Emotional wreck: Kris lost it while interviewing her mother
'I'm going to be an emotional wreck,' she said, but Khloe talked her into it.
Kris broke down when her mother asked her what was her 'biggest fear'.
'I don't want to say it,' she sobbed.
Her too: MJ also teared up while being interviewed by Kris
'Just losing someone,' she blubbered.
Kendall asked MJ how many people she'd slept with.
'Fourfour that I remember,' she answered.
Good questions: Kim and Kendall teamed up to interview MJ
Mother and daughter: Khloe and Kris also asked MJ questions
A sneak peak of next week's episode showed Rob getting parenting lessons.
Kris also was shown getting into a car accident.
KUWTK continues next week on the E! network.
She reunited with her former flame in May in the same week that her divorce from rapper husband Professor Green was finalised.
And Millie Mackintosh was mixing business with pleasure as she accompanied beau Hugo Taylor on an exotic trip to Mauritius over the weekend.
The former Made In Chelsea star, 27, showcased her enviably toned physique in a skimpy berry bikini as she worked her magic in front of the camera while modelling for Hugo's sunglasses line, Taylor Morris.
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Model behaviour: Millie Mackintosh showcased her toned physique in a berry bikini while modelling for boyfriend Hugo Taylor's sunglasses line in Mauritius over the weekend
Perching on the edge of a swimming pool, Millie displayed her tanned washboard abs as she posed in front of a picture-perfect backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
The fashion designer wore her auburn locks tumbling around her shoulders in loose waves and sheltered her eyes from the sun with a pair of oversized shades.
Millie is holidaying in Mauritius with boyfriend of six months, Hugo, 30, as well as his business partner Charlie Morris and Toby Huntington-Whiteley, the younger brother of supermodel and actress Rosie, 29.
On Saturday, the ex-reality star treated her social media followers to another sizzling image as she lounged on a sandy beach in a barely-there white bikini.
'How I would like to spend every Saturday': The former Made In Chelsea star, 27, showed off her abs in a tiny white bikini in another sizzling social media snap
Beach babe: Millie covered up in a striped kaftan as she took a break from shooting
The designer's tiny two-piece featured ruching along the bra and revealed a tantalising amount of cleavage.
With one hand placed behind her head, the brunette beauty appeared entirely serene against the tropical backdrop.
Letting her statement swimwear speak for itself, Millie simply rocked a pair of mirrored round-eye shades.
She captioned the idyllic shot: 'How I would like to spend every Saturday @beachcomber_hotels #taylormorristravels #Mauritius'.
The reality star has further cemented her relationship with Hugo, who she met on Made In Chelsea in 2011, by going on holiday together.
Turn around, bright eyes: The designer looked ethereal in a white maxi dress as the group headed out for a spot of dinner
Cheeky! The brunette beauty toasted to her imminent arrival in paradise with some champagne on the plane
Clearly excited for the trip, the sunglasses designer shared snaps of their flight in first class.
Smiling for the lens, the couple posed alongside supermodel Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's model brother Toby.
Millie's beaming appearance comes after Janet Street-Porter branded her 'childish' for ruining her wedding dress in a bid to get back at ex-husband Professor Green.
The former reality star is thought to have ripped up her 1,500 evening dress from the day she wed Professor Green and smeared blood all over it for a Halloween costume.
But 69-year-old Janet called the stunt 'horrible' when it came up in discussion on Loose Women on Thursday.
Flight squad: Smiling for the lens, the couple posed alongside supermodel Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's model brother Toby
Catching some sleep: Clearly excited for the trip, sunglasses designer Hugo shared snaps of their flight in first class
'It's horrible to make a statement like that, it's childish,' said Janet, acknowledging the her jibe at her ex-husband.
Millie got a second wear out of the ivory Grace Loves Lace gown for the spooky festivities at Albert's in West London last month, but she defaced it to play dress as the jilted bride.
The beauty first wore the stunning dress on her wedding day to the chart-topper, whose real name is Stephen Manderson, in Somerset back in 2013.
The Sun reported on Sunday that the former Made in Chelsea star 'ripped' and 'bloodied' the Grace Loves Lace gown she had worn to the evening reception of her wedding to the musician for the spooky festivities at Albert's in West London.
Millie and Pro Green announced their split in February after just over four years together and their two-and-a-half-year marriage was dissolved in just 30 seconds in May.
Inseparable couple: The former Made In Chelsea star took to social media to share a blissfully happy snap of herself with her 'love' Hugo on Tuesday
In a statement at the time, they said: 'It is a mutual decision, we still care deeply about each other and would like it to be known that it is on amicable terms and we wish each other well.'
They were granted a decree nisi at Central London Family Court with Millie citing 'unreasonable behaviour' as the reason for their split.
Just one week after their divorce was finalised, the beauty went public with her ex-boyfriend Hugo and has been documenting their romance across social media ever since.
Millie and Stephen started dating in November 2011 after the rapper saw her on the cover of men's magazine FHM.
The rapper contacted Millie through her agent and they had their first date at the Groucho Club in Soho.
Transformed! Millie was criticised last week for ripping her wedding dress 'to shreds' for a Halloween costume
They went public at the Brit Awards in February 2012, with Stephen proposing on holiday in Paris just over a year later.
The couple tied the knot in a lavish ceremony at Babington House in Somerset in September 2013.
Pro Green recently lashed out at Millie in his new track Eye On The Door, rapping about their lack of sex life, drug use and hinting that cheating was to blame for their split.
But in spite of his very public bashing of his ex-wife, the musician admitted last week that splitting from Millie felt like experiencing 'a death.
He told the i newspaper on Friday: 'Of course whether youre happy somethings finished or not, it doesnt change the fact that it does still feel like theres been a death.
'An energy thats always been in your presence is suddenly no longer there and youre an idiot if you think thats not going to affect you.'
Her due date is just around the corner.
And on Monday, Teresa Palmer attempted to cover her large baby bump as she dressed in loose-fitting clothing during a day out in Adelaide, South Australia.
While holding onto her son Bodhi's hand during the outing, the 30-year-old actress covered her belly with a patterned T-shirt and a black cardigan, which fell loosely over her slender frame.
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Countdown is on: Teresa Palmer covers her large baby bump in loose-fitting clothing during a day out in Adelaide, South Australia with her son Bodhi on Monday
She paired the casual garments with a pair of denim skinny jeans and black leather flats.
While wearing her blonde locks out with a natural wave, Teresa slipped a beanie over her head as she hid her eyes under a pair of tinted sunglasses.
As she flung her son's school bag over her right shoulder, she held onto Bodhi's little hand as they walked down the pathway.
Dressing down: The expected mother covered her belly with a patterned T-shirt and a black cardigan while slipping into a pair of skinny jeans
Every so cute: Bodhi also looked adorable during the outing as he was dressed in faded trousers and a light khaki button-up jacket
The toddler looked adorable as he was dressed in leopard print grey joggers and a light khaki button-up jacket.
Days earlier, Teresa took to Instagram to exposing her large baby bump as she had one of her final check-ups at a doctor's clinic.
The Australian beauty shared on the social media site her excitement over a recent turn to Australia for the impending birth.
'I'm back to doing Vlogs for my #35week update!' Teresa began the caption.
Ready to pop! Days earlier, Teresa exposed her baby bump as she documented one of her final check-ups at a doctor's clinic on social media
'This week I talk about our big move to Australia AND I show you around our property! You also get introduced to a very special guest!'
'In the video I discuss a birth complication that's come up, the birth preferences we settled on and more! Pandemonium this week & all captured in this weeks update,' the actress continued, alongside the hash-tag #yourzenmama.
The family flew out of LA on November 2 to head to Teresa's hometown in Adelaide, where News Corp has reported the family recently purchased land and property.
It was a risky move for the nurturing blonde, who was nearing the cut-off point for flying.
Down Under: The family of nearly four flew out of LA earlier this month to head to Teresa's hometown in Adelaide, where they have recently purchased land and property
Jet setting: It was a risky move for the blonde, with the actress revealing: 'I am flying back to Australia at exactly 36 weeks pregnant, which is the cut-off point'
'I am flying back to Australia at exactly 36 weeks pregnant, which is the cut-off point,' she told the paper.
Teresa, Mark, Bodhi and the unborn baby boy will remain in Australia for the Christmas season before returning to LA.
The actress revealed on her blog that her doctor had pushed forward her due date, the baby now expected to enter the world on November 27.
Opinion / Columnist
"A coalition can trump Mugabe and Zanu PF in 2018" argued Moses Chamboko in The Zimbabwean. The article was inspired by the events in America. Zimbabwe's electoral system and that of America are as different as chalk and cheese as Chamboko readily admitted."In 2008, it took the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) six weeks to release the results of an election in which only 3.2 million people had voted," he wrote. "Given that last week's American election attracted 133 million voters, going by their 2008 counting rate, it would take ZEC five years to count these votes, by which time another election would be due!"He pointed out other glaring difference between the US elections and ours; how no one was ever harassed, beaten much less killed to force the people to vote one way and not the other; etc.So the challenge in Zimbabwe is how to stop Zanu PF election shenanigans and machinations which have stopped the trumping of Mugabe and Zanu PF again and again already!"We have two tools to make this happen:" offered Chamboko "register to vote in huge numbers and turning up to vote as well as making progress on the coalition front."Are we not going round and round in circles here?How will registering and voting in huge numbers force ZEC Officials to count any faster than the six weeks and, more significantly, stop them "cooking" the results. We all know that it took six weeks to announce the result, as contrast to counting the votes; ZEC finished the counting in less than 24 hours. However, ZEC could not announce the result because President Mugabe did not want the true count known and accept defeat.Still, he could not instruct ZEC to announce the "cooked up" figures straight away either. He was not sure if MDC had carefully collated the election results themselves and would therefore successful challenge the cooked up figure in a court of law. Archbishop Desmond Tutu suggested that MDC should demand the release of the results but Tsvangirai in his infantile wisdom disregarded the advice. After six weeks of diddling and stringing MDC along it was clear there was total confusion in the MDC camp and they would accept whatever result ZEC announced. The cooked results showed there was no clear winner and so a run-off would be required.President Mugabe had used the six weeks to perfect his operation "Mavhotera Papi!" (Whom did you vote for!) All the security services were mobilized to back the war veterans, the storm troopers spear heading the operation; civilians were harassed, beaten, raped and over 500 killed in a ruthless move to force the people to vote for Mugabe in the run-off.The violence was so bad Tsvangirai was forced to withdraw from the race; the voters were herded into Polling Stations like castle and instructed whom they should vote for; Mugabe got 98% or some such figure of the vote. ZEC took less than 24 hours to count the votes and announced the results! Proof, ZEC officials have no problem counting the votes as long as the result reaffirms the no regime change mantra!During one unguarded moment President Mugabe bleated out that Tsvangirai had gunned 73% of the votes in the March 2008 vote. So as long as it is a Zanu PF controlled ZEC that is tasked to count and announce the votes the talk of trumping Mugabe and Zanu PF is a waste of time!Zimbabwe's whole electoral process is geared to deliver no regime change and the challenge before us is to implement all the democratic reforms designed to end the tyrannical controls ZanuPF has over not only ZEC officials but other State Institutions like the Police, Army, CIO, Judiciary, Public Media, etc. to force them to deliver free, fair and credible elections.The Zanu PF vote rigging machine is very well funded and very sophisticated, it is five or ten blocks ahead of the stone-broke, corrupt and incompetent opposition simpletons. We must therefore concentrate all our efforts on demanding the implementation of all the democratic reforms not wasting time, money and space listening to simpletons second guessing the weaknesses of the Zanu PF vote-rigging juggernaut!In 2013 Tsvangirai refused to listen to SADC leaders who warned against taking part in the elections with not even one reform implemented. Mr. Know-It-All did not listen and we all know the elections were blatantly rigged and landed us all in this political and economic nightmare. We would be very foolish indeed if we went into the next elections again with not even one reform implemented on the basis on a half-cock ZUNDE plan of mass voter registration and uniting an opposition we already know hopelessly corrupt and incompetent.By noon of voting day in 2013 Tsvangirai was already admitting the elections were rigged; we will be foolish to let that happen again in 2018.Mugabe has been rigging elections for the last 36 years and yet time and time again we have gone into election knowing the elections will be rigged and lo behold the elections were rigged every time.The political and economic consequence of another rigged Zimbabwe election in 2018 will cause unthinkable suffering, worse than what we are seeing in the country today. SA will beat President Trump in building a border by building one to stop the hordes of Zimbabwean economic and political refugees flooding across the Limpopo River!A lot has been said about America's recent elections but no one will dispute that they were free, fair and credible and thus a true reflection of the will of the people. The same is true of America's past elections. To therefore hope that Zimbabwe's next elections will too be a true reflection of the democratic will of the majority of Zimbabweans knowing fully well that Zanu PF will rig the elections just as they have done in the past is plain foolish!We must implement the democratic reforms is we are serious about ending the corrupt and tyrannical Zanu PF dictatorship.
DIY SOS star Nick Knowles has been spotted moving personal items into his estranged wife Jessica's home.
The 54-year-old TV presenter cut a low-key figure as he toted clothes and bags into her house on Sunday, sparking reconciliation rumours following their turbulent separation in January.
His stunning former spouse, 28, who has battled cervical cancer during the split, followed Nick as they headed into the house during the apparent move.
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Moving on in: DIY SOS star Nick Knowles has been spotted moving personal items into his estranged wife Jessica's home
Nick and Jessica, who share a 26-year age gap, began dating in 2009 before marrying in September 2012 and they share two-year-old son Edwin, although they announced their devastating split earlier this year.
In September, the TV star set tongues wagging when he was seen cuddling up to Emmerdale actress Gemma Oaten after the TV Choice Awards.
Releasing a statement last month, he broached the topic of his troubled relationship with Jessica, as he said: 'This year we have faced a miscarriage, the break down of our marriage and cancer without being disrespectful about each other at any point.'
Despite their split, Nick was seen heading into Jessica's home on Sunday while holding on to mounds of clothes, a rucksack and wash bag while his stunning ex-partner was hot on his heels in a chic midi dress.
Back for good? The 54-year-old TV presenter cut a low-key figure as he toted clothes and bags into her house on Sunday, sparking reconciliation rumours following their turbulent separation in January
Happier times: Nick and Jessica, who share a 26-year age gap, began dating in 2009 before marrying in September 2012 and they share two-year-old son Edwin, although they announced their devastating split earlier this year
MailOnline has contacted a representative for Nick for comment.
Included in Nick's October statement was a reference to his fling with Gemma, as he continued that it was 'something that happened (in the space of less than one week) during a turbulent, traumatic time and more to the point - whilst we were separated.'
He finished the emotional message in support of Jessica, admitting: 'As always, our answer is united, as are we. We have enjoyed eight years as best friends and nothing will change that.'
The star explained Gemma was also devastated to hear he was working on his relationship with estranged wife Jessica, after he allegedly told her there was no chance of a reconciliation.
Together? In September, the TV star set tongues wagging when he was seen cuddling up to Emmerdale actress Gemma Oaten after the TV Choice Awards
Despite Nick's claims, defiant Gemma said: 'I thought it was a real relationship and he wasnt afraid to let others know.'
Gemma's claims came after Nick revealed he is working through issues with his estranged wife - who revealed shortly before that she was battling cervical cancer.
Last month Nick told The Mirror: 'I have a relationship with Jessica and we are best friends. We are working through things.'
He once again touched on his relationship with Gemma, explicitly stating: 'Gemma and I are not dating. We went on a date. The nature of my work means its very difficult to go on a date without everybody making a much bigger deal of it.'
That was then... He finished the emotional message in support of Jessica, admitting: 'As always, our answer is united, as are we. We have enjoyed eight years as best friends and nothing will change that'
Focusing on the important things: Nick and Jessica wed in Rome in 2012, and when they announced their separation in January they stated that their 'focus continues to be the happiness of our son Eddie'
Nick and Jessica wed in Rome in 2012, and when they announced their separation in January they stated that their 'focus continues to be the happiness of our son Eddie.'
The couple first met when Jessica's parents asked Nick - the host of DIY SOS and 5 Star Family Reunion - to help kick-start her career in 2009, and romance blossomed despite their age gap.
They were the only group to make it to the X Factor semi finals to battle head-to-head with the final five in a bid to secure a spot in the Grand Finals.
But on Monday night, Brooke, Tayla and Elishia were sent home after reaching the bottom two AGAIN.
The underdogs mentor and X Factor judge Mel B appeared disappointed having to watch both Beatz and Vlado reach the bottom two admitting it was a 'shock' to her.
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'I'm so upset': X Factor judge Mel B was visibly disappointed when she was told both her teams made it into the bottom two and had to compete for a place in the final four
'Oh, I'm so upset to see both of these amazing acts in the bottom two. I mean, they are Underdogs and they have worked their butts off, both of them.
Beatz performed Destiny's Child, I'm a Survivor while Vlado stunned the judges with his rendition of Cold Water by Major Lazer.
Despite their efforts, Vlado secured a spot with the final four after Guy nailed the final nail in Beatz Coffin sending them packing after their performance.
'Yeah, look, I've said Beatz you are my favourite girl group we have ever had,' he started.
'They are underdogs and they worked their butts off': Beatz and Vlado were voted into the bottom two after competing head-to-head in a battle to secure a spot in the Grand Final
Shocked: Mel B was noticeable distressed to see both her teams having to compete against one another - wishing the outcome was different
'You are so full of beans and I know I was hard on you last night and I said we haven't really seen much from you on the stripped back level.
'It's always been high energy and same/same,' he continued.
'I've also been critical of you, Vlado. I said your vocals have suffered at times, and I also kind of get a little bit bored of the performance side of things.
Superstar: Vlado made his best attempt to win the hearts of the judges to stay in the running to be crowned winner for 2016 with his rendition of Cold Water by Major Lazer
Iconic: Beatz performed the popular Destiny's Child song I'm A Survivor to reiterate that even if they lose that they'll be back in the music industry in no time
'So, there's definitely pluses with both of you but there's stuff that worries me, too,' he added.
Taking his time, Guy made the decision to send Vlado to the Grand Final saying he made his decision around who he believed would be most relevant in the industry.
'The thing that always makes me make a decision in this instance is who do I see as relevant right now for the industry.
Difficult: Taking his time, Guy made the decision to send Vlado to the Grand Final saying he made his decision around who he believed would be most relevant in the industry
Lucky: Mel B luckily did not have to make a decision with Adam Lambert and Iggy Azalea both siding with Vlado for the Grand Final as well
'I'm going to go with my gut and the act that I'm going to send through to the grand final is Vlado,' he finished.
Mel B made said her final words to the girls appearing upset that she had to see one of her teams leave the competition.
'I know how hard these ladies have worked and they have literally given everything time and time and time again.
Tearful goodbyes: Vlado was seen hugging the girls in Beatz when they did not make it to the final four
Goodbye, but not forever: The remaining four joined the hug and said goodbye to the girls in Beatz who vowed they would be back
'I want to be in their gang. They have my cell phone number. We are constantly talking and texting. So, you are not going to see the last of me.
Meanwhile, Amalia, Isaiah and Davey were first to be voted into the final four after Australia cast their votes after last night's episode.
The final five battled it out singing killer tracks and curveballs to impress the judges and X factor fans across the nation.
Former contestants: Samantha Jade and Cyrus joined forces to sing their single Hurt Anymore at the live decision on Monday night's episode
Singing duo: Australian pop stars The Veronica's joined the star studded list of celebrities joining the contestants on Monday night's episode and sang their single On Your Side
With Beatz receiving the same feedback as Monday night, with judges less than impressed with their 'same-same' performances.
Also joining the teams on Monday night's show were The Veronica's and former X Factor contestants, Little Mix and Samantha Jade and Cyrus.
The Veronica's stunned fans as they sang their single On Your Side and Samantha Jade and Cyrus teamed up with their single Hurt Anymore.
Winners: 2011 winner of the British X Factor Little Mix performed their hit Shout Out To My Ex as they promoted their new album Glory Days
Joining forces: Little Mix performed their single alongside the final five before final decisions were cast for the top four
Little Mix performed their single Shout Out To My Ex while performing with the final five before final decisions were cast for the top four.
X Factor Grand Finale week starts on Sunday at 8pm and then on Monday at 7.30pm the winner for 2016 will be crowned.
She is famed for her scanty outfits and fearless exposure of her figure.
And Lady Victoria Hervey made sure she stuck to her tried and tested style as she soaked up the sun during a trip to Palm Springs in California on Friday.
The 40-year-old model and IT girl sported a barely-there cut-out swimming costume which came unfastened as she emerged from the pool - leading to an eye-popping exposure of her entire chest.
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Oh dear! Cheeky! Lady Victoria Hervey made sure she stuck to the stuff she knows as she soaked up the sun during a trip to Palm Springs in California on Friday
Victoria, who is the daughter of the late 6th Marquess of Bristol, has never been shy of showing off her physique - often storming red carpets in ensembles which leave absolutely nothing to the imagination.
Friday's sun worshiping session was no exception as she sizzled poolside in her chic one-piece - which shockingly came unfastened as she emerged from the cool water.
Enjoying a dip, she pulled her best Bond girl impression as she emerged from the pool - although things went very wrong when she suffered a wardrobe malfunction.
The belted swimsuit fell from Victoria's shoulders and exposed her entire bare chest - showing perky assets which far defied her age.
Loving life: The 40-year-old model and IT girl sported a barely-there cut-out swimming costume which came unfastened as she emerged from the pool - leading to an eye-popping exposure of her entire chest
Shocking behaviour: The blonde beauty grappled with the swimsuit yet appeared relatively unfazed by the catastrophic snag which would no doubt mortify many
She's a lady! Despite her awkward flash, Victoria oozed confidence as she emerged from the water
Hold on tight: The blonde beauty had little concern for her flash as she stepped out of the water
She sure loves to shock! Lady Victoria is famed for her scanty outfits and fearless exposure of her figure
The blonde beauty grappled with the swimsuit yet appeared relatively unfazed by the catastrophic incident which would no doubt mortify many.
With her bleach blonde tresses worn in a chic bouncy blow-dry, Victoria seemed to have no intentions of dipping into the water fully, to ensure she kept her tresses perfectly coiffed.
Despite the mishap, she was later seen laughing while reclining on a sun lounger and peeling on a chic pair of oversized sunglasses.
Cool customer: The socialite took a break from the balmy climes to enjoy a relaxing swim
Chilled out: Victoria was in pure relaxation mode as she lay back on a lounger
Coiffed: With her bleach blonde tresses worn in a chic bouncy blow-dry, Victoria seemed to have no intentions of dipping into the water to ensure she kept her tresses perfectly coiffed
Laughing it off: Victoria, who is the daughter of the late 6th Marquess of Bristol, has never been shy of showing off her physique - often storming red carpets in ensembles which leave absolutely nothing to the imagination
Sizzling: Lady Victoria, who is known for her glamorous sense of style, recently told the Daily Mail's Sebastian Shakespeare that English women struggle to be sexy
Lady Victoria, who is known for her glamorous sense of style, recently told the Daily Mail's Sebastian Shakespeare that English women struggle to be sexy.
'Women in London are too conservative and dont have the courage to wear sexy outfits. Its an English thing,' she said, 'I grew up in the South of France so I have a much more international approach.'
Victoria added that she still leads by example, sporting an array of sheer ensembles at parties recently, she said: 'Its empowering to dress provocatively'.
Her body confidence put her in good stead during her modelling career, which saw her work for the likes of Christian Dior.
Sense of style: 'Women in London are too conservative and dont have the courage to wear sexy outfits. Its an English thing,' she said. 'I grew up in the South of France so I have a much more international approach'
Body confidence: Her body confidence put her in good stead during her modelling career, which saw her work for the likes of Christian Dior
Pure relaxation: The famed beauty appeared to have made a friend as a pup was spotted catching some shade under her lounger
Her stint on The Only Way Is Essex was a case of blink and you'll miss it.
But George Harrison ensured she attracted plenty of attention as she enjoyed a recent beach break in Barcelona, Spain.
The former TOWIE star, 21, turned heads as she showed off her svelte physique in a sizzling cut-out monokini while strolling along the city's white sands.
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Beach babe: George Harrison ensured she attracted plenty of attention thanks to her sizzling choice of swimwear as she enjoyed a recent beach break in Barcelona, Spain
The blonde bombshell boasted a full face of make-up and warded off the sun in a wide-brimmed straw hat as she frolicked in the water.
George, who joined the cast of The Only Way Is Essex in 2014 for just one series, wore her peroxide blonde locks in a sleek straight style.
Despite heading for a dip in the water, she maintained her make-up - including a taupe lipstick and lashings of mascara.
Her racy black one-piece revealed every inch of her toned body thanks to cut-outs at the waist and a perilously plunging neckline.
Making a splash: The former TOWIE star, 21, turned heads as she showed off her svelte physique in a skimpy cut-out monokini while strolling along the city's white sands
Always glam: The blonde bombshell boasted a full face of make-up and warded off the sun in a wide-brimmed straw hat as she frolicked in the water
October sun: George, who joined the cast of The Only Way Is Essex in 2014 for just one series, wore her peroxide blonde locks in a sleek straight style
Stretching out in the sand, the blonde reality star later shielded her eyes with oversized black sunglasses.
George starred in just three episodes of TOWIE in 2014 - during which she went on several dates with Tom Pearce.
She was also linked to Lewis Bloor, but producers felt the tenuous romantic storylines weren't enough to secure her a more permanent role on the ITVBe show, especially when Tom left the show.
Brief stint: Georgia starred in just three episodes of TOWIE in 2014 - during which she went on several dates with Tom Pearce
A source told Beamly: 'Every cast member sits down with producers before each new series to talk about their future but George was told bosses didnt believe she had big enough storylines coming up.'
Since her brief stint on the show, Georgia has enjoyed many beach breaks this year, including further trips to Spain and an exotic location in Thailand.
Keeping fans up to date with her holidaying, she recently shared a steamy Instagram snap of her pert behind in a silver bikini during an Ibiza getaway.
She is still a regular face among the familiar ITVBe crowd, having known Lewis Bloor since the age of 14.
Spanish sizzler: George recently shared a steamy Instagram snap of her pert behind in a silver bikini during an Ibiza getaway
Her elder sister is the country's undisputed queen of the catwalk and she's carving out a career as a successful model in her own right.
But Lottie Moss was looking worlds away from her usual glamour as she prepared to fly home from Barcelona's El Prat airport after a fun-filled girls' weekend with her friends.
The teen model, 18 - who is the younger half-sister of Kate Moss, 42 - was rocking an off-duty look for her flight, looking youthful and fresh-faced as she went make-up free while leaving the Spanish city.
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Natural beauty: Lottie Moss was looking worlds away from her usual glamour as she prepared to fly home from Barcelona's El Prat airport after a fun-filled girls' weekend with her friends
Wearing her tousled blonde locks scraped back from her face, Lottie nailed jet-setter chic in an on-trend suede aviator jacket.
The beauty flaunted her lean legs in a pair of blue skintight jeans with a frayed hem and rocked simple black Nike Air Max trainers.
Lottie, who made her first public appearance at Tophsop Unique in 2014 with big sister Kate, went incognito with a pair of mirrored shades as she strolled through the terminal.
Looking worlds away from her chic red carpet appearances, the Calvin Klein model toted her belongings in a large gold bag.
Jet-setter: The teen model, 18, - who is the younger half-sister of Kate Moss, 42 - was rocking an off-duty look for her flight, looking youthful and fresh-faced as she went make-up free
Model behaviour: The Calvin Klein model looked worlds away from her chic red carpet appearances (pictured in September at an amfAR event in Milan, Italy)
The star looked somewhat worn-out from her trip to Barcelona, which was to celebrate a friend's 21st birthday.
Posting a snap of the girls enjoying drinks on Instagram, she wrote: 'Had an amazing time in Barcelona with the girls.'
Lottie is rumoured to be dating Made In Chelsea star Alex Mytton, 25.
The pair have been inseparable for the past few weeks, hitting London bashes together on numerous occasions.
Lottie has immersed herself with Alex's Made In Chelsea crowd following a romance with Alex's friend, Sam Prince.
Girls just wanna have fun: The star looked somewhat worn-out from her trip to Barcelona, which was to celebrate a friend's 21st birthday
The blonde beauty has been linked to several suitors in the past - having enjoyed lunch in June with pop star Conor Maynard, and flirted with Geordie Shore star Ricci Guarnaccio on Twitter.
It was only at the end of July that Lottie was seen cosying up to boyfriend Josh Goldin outside Conchiglia restaurant in London.
The then loved-up pair were seen leaning in for plenty of kisses on the street outside the eatery - although they had fuelled rumours of a potential split that same week after both retweeting messages about infidelity.
And, back in February 2015, Lottie caused controversy on Twitter when she wrote to her followers after a night-out at 4am: 'You know it's a successful night when you throw your drink in your ex boyfriends face.'
Alex, meanwhile, has had ill-fated long-term romances with two of his Made In Chelsea co-stars, Binky Felstead and Nicola Hughes, both of which ended in him admitting to having been unfaithful.
She was a favourite to win the 2016 series of Strictly Come Dancing at the outset.
But a 'heartbroken' Daisy Lowe found herself putting on a brave face as she headed out into London on Monday, less than 24 hours after getting the boot from the show.
Having been up early to tell her pal Nick Grimshaw and his Radio 1 listeners about her exit, the model, 27, then headed out for a stroll in an ab-flashing ensemble.
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Down and out? A 'heartbroken' Daisy Lowe found herself putting on a brave face as she headed out into London on Monday, less than 24 hours after getting the boot from the show
'I'm pretty heartbroken but I'm really proud of myself because I actually managed to survive eight weeks of it,' Daisy told her BFF on his breakfast show.
'I loved every minute of it and I'm never going to stop dancing. It created the most mental adventure of my whole entire life.'
Following her morning with Grimmy, Daisy headed out into the capital and braved the cold weather in a casual yet chic affair.
Teaming a cropped white jumper with a pair of high-waisted denim skinny jeans, the face of Triumph lingerie flaunted her envy-inducing flat tummy.
Putting on a brave face? Having been up early to tell her pal Nick Grimshaw and his Radio 1 listeners about her exit, the model, 27, then headed out for a stroll in an ab-flashing ensemble
Kitting herself out with a snazzy pink mac to combat the rain, Daisy ensured had a seasonally swish edge to her look.
She rounded her wardrobe off her trademark biker boots, which she wore laced-up tight to the top.
The newly-single star, who split with boyfriend Bradley 'Frankie' Wade just a week before her exit, hid her gaze under a pair of over-sized black sunglasses.
Heartbreaking: 'I'm pretty heartbroken but I'm really proud of myself because I actually managed to survive eight weeks of it,' Daisy told her BFF on his breakfast show
Ab-flashing fashion: Teaming a cropped white jumper with a pair of high-waisted denim skinny jeans, the face of Triumph lingerie flaunted her envy-inducing flat tummy
Wearing her raven locks in her customary tousled and teased manner, the ballroom vixen left her hair free to blow in the breeze.
The billboard beauty allowed her naturally striking looks to shine through, with Daisy opting for a minimal palette of make-up.
Despite having bombed out of the show in the dance-off against Olympian Greg Rutherford, Daisy was able to muster a big beaming smile.
Rain, rain, go away: Kitting herself out with a snazzy pink mac to combat the rain, Daisy ensured had a seasonally swish edge to her look
Natural beauty: Wearing her raven locks in her customary tousled and teased manner, the ballroom vixen left her hair free to blow in the breeze
However, she looked utterly devastated to be leaving the competition just one week before the vaunted Blackpool special, on Sunday night.
The model's Saturday night salsa to Groove is in the Heart with Aljaz Skorjanec failed to win over the public.
And the couple found themselves in the bottom two, for the third time in as many week, against Greg and Natalie Lowe.
Out: She looked utterly devastated to be leaving the competition just one week before the vaunted Blackpool special, on Sunday night
Bottom two: The model's Saturday night salsa to Groove is in the Heart with her pro partner Aljaz Skorjanec failed to win over the public
After hearing she was facing the dreaded dance off yet again, Daisy told host Tess Daly: 'I'm just hoping it's not the third and final one! I love that dance,' before turning to her partner Alkaz and telling him 'I'm sorry.'
'I think you did an incredible job', he told her. 'And we're gonna do it again.'
Judge Darcey advised Daisy to soften her knees and work on her balance issues but mostly to 'sell it and embrace it with that wonderful confidence you gave on Saturday night.'
First dance off: he couple found themselves in the bottom two against Olympian Greg Rutherford and Natalie Lowe, with both couples receiving the same score the night before
Greg meanwhile looked relatively calm ahead of his debut dance off where he performed his Pasa Doble again, telling Tess 'we'll hopefully get through any of the mistakes we had during the first try.'
Both Daisy and Greg got emotional as they expressed how much they wanted to make it Blackpool, with Greg saying 'it's hard to put it into words. It would be amazing to make it to next week.'
In the end the judges vote saw Craig and Darcey vote to save Greg, with Craig exclaiming that he and Natalie had 'totally and utterly nailed the dance,' the second time around.
Emotional: After hearing she was facing the dreaded dance off yet again, Daisy told host Tess Daly: 'I'm just hoping it's not the third and final one!'
Second time around: Greg meanwhile looked relatively calm ahead of his debut dance off, telling Tess 'we'll hopefully get through any of the mistakes we had during the first try'
Tense: Daisy, Aljaz, Greg and Natalie waited nervously after their dances as the judges voted
Bruno though voted for Daisy, declaring the dance off to be a 'clash of titans,' which resulted in head judge Len having the casting vote.
Len explained: 'Obviously because it's a split decision that shows the closeness of this competition. However I have to go with my brain and not my heart and my brain says the most polished and technical performance is Greg and Natalie.'
'I've loved every minute,' Daisy said after the decision. 'Thank you so much for everything...and this one, my dear friend,' she added as she hugged Aljaz, who told Daisy:
Close call: In the end the judges vote saw Craig and Darcey vote to save Greg, while Bruno went for Daisy, leaving the casting vote with head judge Len who voted for Greg
Going out on a high: 'I've loved every minute,' Daisy said after the decision. 'Thank you so much for everything'
Saying goodbye: Daisy hugged Greg as she prepared to head to the dance floor one last time
'Thank you, you've been the most joyous in rehearsals, you've taught me so much. You're the most beautiful person inside out, you're a beautiful dancer..
'Thank you for making this Strictly experience unforgettable for me.'
Meanwhile Ed Balls exclaimed 'we did it' as he and partner Katya Jones made it through after leaving viewers, and the judges, speechless with their Gangnam Style salsa the night before.
Flower power: Daisy ensured she gave it her all as she performed an energetic salsa to Groove Is In The Heart on Saturday night
Impressive: Tied with the same number of points was Greg and Natalie who performed a powerful Pasa Doble
Daisy ensured she gave it her all as she performed an energetic salsa on Saturday night.
After Aljaz warned 'we're both quite tall so its sometimes tricky to get the lifts quite right', viewers were watching with baited breath, but needed not to worry.
Despite some wobbles, their salsa proved to be drama free and they recieved positive comments from the judges.
Head judge Len Goodman was particularly positive, exclaiming: 'Who better to give us some flower power than a Daisy!'
Crowd pleaser: Meanwhile Ed Balls exclaimed 'we did it' as he made it through after leaving viewers, and the judges, speechless with their Gangnam Style salsa the night before
He continued: There was a little mistake but you carried on so well done to you!'
Meanwhile, Bruno referenced the fact the BBC's most beloved baker in the audience as he said: That salsa... I'm sure Mary Berry would approve wouldn't you darling!'
Craig Revel Horwood wasn't quite as forthcoming, pointing out: 'The footwork was haphazard and continually disjointed, the lifts were great but transitions were sticky.'
He did heap on some praise, however, as he continued: 'My darling, you are so supple, I love those leg extensions!'
Lost for words: The standout moment of Saturday night went to Ed
Tribute: Sunday's show also featured a moving dance telling the story of Madge and Basil Lambert, who met and fell in love during WW2
And whilst it may not have been her best score, Daisy still earned a respectable 31 points.
Danny Mac's Argentine Tango with Oti Mabuse which some of the judges deemed too 'aggressive', was the top performing routine of the night.
Whilst Darcey and Craig believed the dance had too much attack and scored the pair nine points each, Len and Bruno were in awe of the routine, both scoring 10.
Closing the show was Louise Redknapp and Kevin Clifton, who outdid themselves with their American Smooth.
Too much? On the other end of the spectrum was Danny Mac's Argentine Tango with Oti Mabuse which some of the judges deemed too 'aggressive'
Bruno remarked: 'You looked the part and the danced the part!'
But whilst Len remarked that they could expect a 'big score' the pair failed to top the leaderboard with just 37 points, which lead to their fellow dancers screaming the pair had been 'undermarked'.
The standout moment of the night went to Ed Balls, who performed a show-stopping salsa to Gangnam Style with Katya Jones.
Claudia announced after Ed had made it through that during next week's special in Blackpool, the former MP will jive to Great Balls of Fire, after being lowered from the ceiling playing a piano.
She has been accused of 'leftist bullying' Steve Price on The Project last week.
But on Monday, Carrie Bickmore put the drama behind her as she caught up with her loving grandfather in Adelaide.
In a photo posted to Instagram, the 35-year-old beamed with happiness as she cuddled up to her pop while planting a gentle kiss on his cheek.
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Loving: Carrie Bickmore beamed with happiness as she cuddled up to her grandfather while planting a gentle kiss on his cheek in her latest social media post
While her grand-parent showed off a wide smile for the front-facing camera, the mother-of-two flaunted her natural beauty through minimal makeup.
As she rested her reflective sunglasses on her head, she slicked back her brunette locks and tied them in a tight bun.
Alongside the loving photograph, Carrie gushed: 'The catch ups are never as frequent as I'd like but always put a smile on my face.
Happy times: Alongside the loving photograph, Carrie gushed: 'The catch ups are never as frequent as I'd like but always put a smile on my face. Love you poppa'
Firing line: Over the last week, Carrie has come under fire for 'bullying' The Project's guest Steve Price during the Presidential election last week
'Love you poppa. Your selfie game is strong #adelaide #grandparents #generations.'
Last week, Carrie came under fire for 'bullying'The Project's guest Steve Price during the Presidential election.
Following the shock election result, Steve was at the epicentre of public debate when he mixed heated words with former Labor staffer Jamila Rizvi.
The pair clashed after Steve claimed Jamila interrupted him as the panel discussed Hillary Clinton's loss, prompting host Carrie to tell him to 'change his tone.'
Tough: At the time, Steve was at the epicentre of public debate when he mixed heated words with former Labor staffer Jamila Rizvi, prompting Carrie to tell him to 'change his tone'
Since the series of events, a petition was formed to force Carrie and her team at The Project to issue Steve with a formal apology after he was the victim of 'leftist bullying' during the show's US election debate.
But on Monday, Steve dismissed the petition demanding The Project offer him an apology.
While appearing on the Network 10 program, Steve cleared the air, saying 'no one owes me an apology for anything' and 'I'm a big boy I can look after myself.'
The always-fashionable Jaime King was among the star-studded guests to attend Glamour magazine's pre-Women Of The Year Awards dinner on Sunday night.
The 37-year-old actress and former model put on quite a stylish display at the intimate dinner, hosted at Barneys New York, in Los Angeles.
Jaime looked like the belle of the ball oozing ladylike glamour in a long lace gown that featured yellow tulips.
Belle of the ball! Jaime King was among the star-studded guests to attend Glamour's 2016 Women of the Year pre-dinner at Barney's in Los Angeles
The willowy beauty, who shares sons James, three, and Leo, one, with director husband Kyle Newman, opted for full on glamour for the evening.
Jaime's gorgeous strapless gown cinched her lithe waist in furthermore before bursting forth in a voluminous skirt featuring two tiers with different hemlines.
Every square inch of the taupe-colored fabric was covered in beautiful and delicate lace embroidery work.
And yellow tulips decorated the entire bodice along with the trim of the first tulle tier.
Romantic glam: The 37-year-old actress and former model flaunted her gorgeous lace gown which featured dual hemlines and rows of yellow tulips
At one point, the cheerful beauty playfully grabbed the first layer of the dress and twirled around to show off her feminine frock.
Jaime completed her romantic look with satin and crystal embellished closed-toe pumps.
The blonde bombshell wore her lengthy tresses in a lovely up-do showing off a beautiful pair of long chandelier jewels dangling from her ears.
Pretty as a petal: The blonde bombshell completed her feminine look with a lovely up-do showing off a beautiful pair of long chandelier jewels dangling from her ears
The natural beauty wore minimal make-up but added a pop of color to her pout with a shade of pink lipstick which contrasted with her red nails in a chic way.
The intimate fashion event was held as an introduction to this year's annual awards ceremony.
It was hosted by editor-in-chief of Glamour magazine, Cindi Leive, who mingled with the stars, as well as CEO of Barneys, Mark Lee.
Prime spot: Jaime was seated directly across from editor-in-chief of Glamour magazine, Cindi Leive, who hosted the evening along with Barneys CEO Mark Lee (not pictured)
Mingling: Guests in attendance also included Girls and Netflix's Love star Gillian Jacobs (right), who like Jaime sported a floral design
Jaime had a prime spot at the dinner table as she was seated directly across from Cindi.
At one point, the Pearl Harbor actress shared an intimate moment with the host of the evening as they held hands over the table and smiled fondly at one another.
Guests in attendance also included Girls and Netflix's Love star Gillian Jacobs, who like Jaime sported a floral design.
She has been in 'beast mode' to prepare for the upcoming Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.
So Adriana Lima enjoyed a bit of well deserved time off as she made a few purchases in Miami on Sunday.
The 35-year-old supermodel appeared as though she just stepped off the catwalk as she flaunted her endless bronzed legs in a peach mini dress.
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She's an Angel! Adriana Lima looked heavenly when she stepped out for a bit of shopping in Miami on Sunday afternoon
The Victoria's Secret Angel donned the pretty floral frock which included a ruffled hemline and sleeves.
She added a bit of height to her statuesque frame with strappy platform wedge heels.
Adriana balanced a pair of dark shades, camel leather handbag and cell phone with a case that read, 'Team Lima,' in one hand and a small brown shopping bag in the other.
She's a peach! The 35-year-old Victoria's Secret Angel appeared as though she just stepped off the catwalk as she flaunted her endless bronzed legs in a floral mini dress
The Brazilian beauty's long dark tresses cascaded in relaxed waves down her back and she rounded out her chic ensemble with a dainty gold choker.
Opting for minimal cosmetics, the Salvador-born stunner went with a touch of rosy blush and slick of pale pink glossy lip.
On Saturday, the genetically-gifted model took to Instagram and shared two make-up free selfies with her 8.6million followers.
'Let the f***ing beast in me out': The supermodel posted a selfie on Saturday as she headed to the gym to train for the upcoming Victoria's Secret Fashion Show
'Beast Mode': The Brazilian beauty posted a flawless make-up free selfie to her 8.6million Instagram followers post-workout
'Let's go let the f***ing beast in me out #BeastMode,' she captioned an image of herself while driving to the gym.
Post-workout, the mother of two finished with: 'I am fire.'
Adriana can be seen ruling the runway in the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show which will air be broadcast on CBS December 5 at 10pm.
The old adage states that a picture is worth a thousand words.
And Behati Prinsloo certainly seemed to think that was true, as she took to Instagram on Monday morning.
The Victoria Secret model posted a photo of her and husband Adam Levine with their baby daughter Dusty Rose.
The blonde beauty, who has been married to Levine since 2014, didn't bother with a caption - instead she posted the sweet snap along with a series of emojis.
Picturesque: Behati Prinsloo posted a cute photo of her and husband Adam Levine with their baby daughter Dusty Rose on Monday morning
In the photo the couple are standing on a quaint beach as they look out towards the water.
Behati wore a pair of denim jeans and a cap as she carried her baby daughter, while her husband opted to wear a pair of pineapple designed black shorts.
He put his arm around his wife as they both gazed at the ocean.
Magical: Behati gave birth to Dusty Rose on September 21 and will walk the November Victoria Secret Fashion Show
The Victoria Secret angel is getting ready to walk the runway for their annual fashion show.
Musical guests for the iconic show include Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga and The Weeknd.
Jasmine Tookes is the lucky model this year who will be wearing the $3 million fantasy bra, complete with 9,000 gemstones and 450 carats.
Golden couple: Behati and Levine have been married since 2014
The bra took 700 hours to make and the elaborate piece of clothing was designed by Eddie Borgo.
This year t he Angels are heading to France for their first-ever Parisian Fashion Show at the iconic Grand Palais.
He is understood to be on good terms with ex-girlfriend Taylor Swift some two months after their whirlwind romance ended in abrupt separation.
But Tom Hiddleston, 35, appeared to be in equally good company on Sunday afternoon as he stepped out with a strikingly similar UNICEF colleague in leafy Hampstead.
The dashing actor - who works as an ambassador for the children's rights and emergency relief organisation - flashed a beaming grin as the pair walked side by side through the affluent North London suburb.
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In good company: Tom Hiddleston was joined by a blonde UNICEF colleague during a day out in Hampstead, north London on Sunday afternoon
Evidently braced for plummeting winter temperatures he sported a thick hooded top beneath a smart black jacket while passing the time with his female pal.
Busy Tom, a favourite to succeed Daniel Craig as iconic secret agent James Bond, appeared to clutch a script under one arm as they strolled past a local cafe.
Walking alongside the actor, his blonde friend - who bore a passing resemblance to pop star Taylor - stayed warm in a jaunty bobble hat and thick winter coat.
A warm front: Evidently braced for plummeting winter temperatures the actor sported a thick hooded top beneath a smart black jacket as they walked through the affluent suburb
Main man: Busy Tom, a favourite to succeed Daniel Criag as iconic secret agent James Bond, appeared to clutch a script under one arm as they strolled past a local cafe
Looking good: Walking alongside the actor, his blonde colleague stayed warm in a jaunty bobble hat and thick winter coat
She added to her seasonal look with a pair of skinny black jeans, while chunky brown ankle boots rounded things off.
Seemingly in high spirits, the blonde offered onlookers a pleasant smile as the pair idled on the pavement, where they were joined by a second UNICEF colleague.
His latest outing was rather more subdued than his spate of high profile public appearances with ex-girlfriend Taylor Swift.
Upbeat: Seemingly in high spirits, she offered onlookers a pleasant smile as she idled on the pavement with a second UNICEF employee
Lookalikes: The pretty blonde bore a passing resemblance to Tom's recent ex, pop star Taylor Swift
Three's company: Tom appeared to be upbeat during his latest outing on Sunday afternoon
The Night Manager star hit the headlines when he and Taylor, 26, split in September - with the pop star telling Dailymail.com that she felt 'uncomfortable' with his desire to be 'so public' about their romance.
Tom had reportedly asked Taylor to the Emmy Awards, but she began questioning whether he was with her for 'the right reasons' and ultimately decided to call off the relationship.
The couple got together shortly after Taylor's split from Calvin Harris, leading Tom to insist their relationship wasn't a 'showmance' in July.
Low key: However his latest outing was rather more subdued than his spate of high profile public appearances with ex-girlfriend Taylor Swift
Talking to the Hollywood Reporter, he said: 'The truth is that Taylor Swift and I are together, and we're very happy. That's the truth. It's not a publicity stunt.'
Tom has been focusing on his return to screen of late - jetting to Australia to film the next Marvel installment, Thor: Ragnorak.
The British actor will reprise his role as Thor's evil adopted brother Loki in the flick, which is set for release in November 2017.
Corey Sligh has been arrested and booked for child molestation.
The former The Young And The Restless star, 28, has been accused of molesting a girl who was under the age of 10.
The arrest took place on October 14 in his home state of Georgia, but was only reported by TMZ on Monday. He was released the same day on a $22,000 bond.
It was added that the alleged molestation occurred from April until September of this year.
Caught: Corey Sligh has been arrested and booked for child molestation, according to TMZ. Here he is seen in his mug shot taken on October 14
On set: The actor play a bartender on the CBS soap opera. Here he is seen on the top left
It is not known how many times the actor attacked the girl during those five months.
The child's parents reported the sexual abuse on September 24. Documents were filed to the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office.
Reps for The Young And The Restless did not return calls to DailyMail.com
Happy day at work: In this Instagram photo the star is seen on the set of Y&R
Sligh was in the news in 2014 when he was intentionally run over by a car in a Rite Aid parking lot in West Hollywood by two men.
After being hit, he was then beaten up, which caused him to be hospitalized.
The incident occurred on Thanksgiving Day.
The crime: The former The Young And The Restless star, 28, has been accused of molesting a girl who was under the age of 10
Not a one-time incident: It was added that the alleged molestation occurred from April until September of this year. Here he is seen in two head shots shared on social media
A man named Nikola Ilic, 24, was arrested and charged with battery.
Dusan Lilic, 26, was also arrested for assault with a deadly weapon and was held in lieu of $85,000 bail.
Sligh was treated at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center after suffering multiple injuries including a broken arm.
Hate crime? Sligh was in the news in 2014 when he was intentionally run over by a car in a Rite Aid parking lot in West Hollywood by two men
The actor had been a regular fixture on The Young And The Restless playing a bartender and waiter on the soap opera.
Sligh and his girlfriend Alisa Berhorst were delivering a Thanksgiving meal to a friend who had to work when they came across a vehicle being driven recklessly in the drugstore parking lot.
Lilic and Ilic crashed the car nearby while allegedly trying to flee and were later arrested.
As his alter ego Deadpool, he's smart-talking, confident and wise-cracking.
But Ryan Reynolds admitted to GQ that he secretly suffered from stress from making the superhero comedy, as he was named their 2016 Man of the Year.
The 40-year-old actor - who welcomed his second daughter with Blake Lively in September - told the publication he was diagnosed with anxiety after finishing filming.
Anxious: Ryan Reynolds admitted to GQ that he secretly suffered from stress from making the superhero comedy, as he was named their 2016 Man of the Year
'When it finally ended, I had a little bit of a nervous breakdown. I literally had the shakes', he told the publication.
The star - who lives with Blake and their two children in upstate New York - explained: 'I went to go see a doctor because I felt like I was suffering from a neurological problem or something. And every doctor I saw said, "You have anxiety."
'I say this with the caveat that I completely recognize the ridiculously fortunate position that I am in. But the attention is hard on your nervous systemthat might be why I live out in the woods.
'And I was banging the loudest drum for Deadpool. I wasn't just trying to open it; I was trying to make a cultural phenomenon'.
Anti-hero: Ryan spent 11 years fighting to have Deadpool made - and was vindicated when the movie grossed $782.6 million worldwide, against a budget of $58 million
The actor posed for the magazine with his character's costume underneath a $4300 Dior Homme suit, teamed with a crisp white shirt also by the designer brand.
His mischievous sense of humour is clearly intact, as he joked about the moment he fell for his now-wife Blake Lively, when asked by the publication when he knew she was the one.
'Probably after the sex,' was his glib reply.
The star then corrected himself and revealed: 'No, we were hanging out at this little restaurant in Tribeca thats open really late, and this song came on and I was just like, "Want to dance?"
'No one was in there, so it was just totally empty. And it was just one of those moments where halfway through the dance, it was like, "Oh, I think I just crossed a line." And then I walked her home. And, uh, you know, I dont really need to go into what happened after that.'
In good company: Usain Bolt also graces the cover of GQ's Man of the Year issues
Stellar: GQ's other Man of the year cover star was screen legend Warren Beatty
Ryan spent 11 years fighting to have Deadpool made - and was vindicated when the movie grossed $782.6 million worldwide, against a budget of $58 million.
'Ive been on the train for 11 years trying to get it made,' he explained to the publication.
'Once the test footage leaked, that created a groundswell of support. And the studio responded to that groundswell by saying, "Okay, heres the absolute bare minimum amount of money that we will give this character. Let us know when the movies done."' he added.
The star revealed that the budget was so tight that they couldn't afford to buy the props they needed for the scenes.
'Theres two moments in the movie where I forget my ammo bag. Thats not because Deadpools forgetful. Thats because we couldnt afford the guns that were about to use in the scene,' he explained.
'We made our production budget back on Friday [after the Thursday midnight premiere]. Theres a certain vindication that comes with that, especially because the studio - granted, under different regimes - for years just kept telling us to go f*** ourselves sterile.'
Couple: His mischievous sense of humour is clearly intact, as he joked about the moment he fell for his now-wife Blake Lively (pictured in February)
Ryan - who graces the cover of their Man of the Year issue as well as Usain Bolt and Warren Beatty - has a family of his own with Blake, whom he married in 2012.
However, he says that his relationship with his own now-late father was estranged for ten years.
'I had a rough ten-year patch with my father. So we were estranged,' he explained, adding: 'From my earliest memory of him, my father was that stereotypical tough guy. But it was just a veneer. The hardest part for me is that he was always kind of a mystery. I just dont feel like I ever had a real conversation with him.
'But I actually that sort of epic moment that only happens in films, where I saw him before he died and closed the loop as much as I could.'
Ryan - whose first married was to Scarlett Johansson from 2008 - 2011 - says he has his own happy family ending.
'Im on the precipice of having a real American family,' he told GQ, 'I mean, I always imagined that would happen, and then it happened. Every idiotic Hallmark-card cliche is true.'
He returned to the world of red carpets earlier this week, after laying low in light of his tumultuous divorce from Angelina Jolie.
But Brad Pitt looked more than happy to be back on the scene on Monday, as he jetted to Shanghai, China for another screening of his new drama Allied.
The 52-year-old actor appeared to be in better spirits than ever as he answered questions about the new WWII drama - after taking endless selfies with adoring fans on the red carpet.
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Back and better than ever: Brad Pitt, 52, appeared to be in better spirits than ever as he attended a screening for new war drama Allied in Shanghai, China on Monday
Say cheese! The star happily chatted and took selfies with fans on the red carpet - appearing in better spirits since split from Angelina Jolie
The hunky actor was sure to give back to his fans from the other side of the world, as he spent a long amount of time chatting and taking selfies with them on the red carpet.
Known for being a heartthrob from his youth, Brad looked handsome as ever in his stylish all-black outfit - proving he has only got better with age.
The star dressed in an incredibly dapper black three-piece suit, formed of perfectly tailored trousers and a clean cut blazer.
Still hunky: Known for being a heartthrob from his youth, Brad looked handsome as ever in his stylish all-black outfit - proving he has only got better with age
Keeping the look toned down, he opted for a matching black shirt underneath and layered a casually stylish scarf on top.
Brad tied his look together with smart patent black brogues, to maintain the slick and suave feel throughout.
The screening reportedly marked Brad's first public press appearance in China since he was banned from the country over a controversial film of his over 20 years ago.
According to CBS News, the Chinese government reportedly didn't like his 1997 film, 'Seven Years in Tibet,' because of its portrayal of harsh Chinese rule in the Himalayan region.
All black everything: Keeping the look toned down, he opted for a matching black shirt underneath and layered a casually stylish scarf on top
However things with the Ocean's Eleven actor appeared to be on better terms, as he later headed inside to answer questions about the new war drama, Allied.
The blockbuster, set for release next week, follows Canadian intelligence officer Max Vatan (Pitt) and his marriage to French Resistance fighter Marianne Beausejour, played by Marion Cotillard.
The couple are then hit by war, and threatened with accusations that the French beauty is actually a spy for the Germans - with Vatan then setting out to clear her name.
Big comeback: The screening reportedly marked Brad's first public press appearance in China since he was banned from the country over a controversial film of his over 20 years ago
His co-star Marion Cotillard gushed of working with the Troy star during a press interview on Friday - in light of rumours that the pair had enjoyed a romance behind the scenes on set.
'[Brad is] such a good man,' she said, explaining he had a heart of gold. 'Of course he's an amazing actor. He's such a good person that it's really not difficult to get along with him.'
Brad announced he was separating from long-term partner Angelina Jolie as promotional proceedings for the film were kicking off - which caused speculation of an affair between him and the French actress to swirl.
Big hitter: Allied, set for release next week, follows intelligence officer Max Vatan (Pitt) and his marriage to French Resistance fighter Marianne, played by Marion Cotillard
However Marion took to her Instagram page in a rare post to staunchly confirm that such a romance did not take place.
She wrote: 'This is going to be my first and only reaction to the whirlwind news that broke 24 hours ago and that I was swept up into.
'I am not used to commenting on things like this nor taking them seriously but as this situation is spiraling and affecting people I love, I have to speak up'.
She went on: 'Many years ago, I met the man of my life, father of our son and of the baby we are expecting. He is my love, my best friend, the only one that I need.'
But first, let me take a selfie: The hunky actor was sure to give back to his fans from the other side of the world, by spending lots of time chatting and taking selfies on the red carpet
Marion went on to wish Brad and Angelina 'peace in this very tumultuous moment,' in her lengthy Instagram response.
Angelina, who has six children with partner-of-12-years Brad, filed for divorce the day after an alleged altercation on a plane between Brad and their eldest son Maddox.
However after laying low amid the difficult divorce proceedings, the Moneyball star finally returned to the public eye on Wednesday for the LA premiere of the film - and was open with his gratitude to fans for their support.
He told E! News of the difficult few months on Wednesday: 'It's really sweet, everyone has been really kind out here. It's really nice to have all the support.'
In a Monday morning tweet Alec Baldwin accused NBC of failing to allow Saturday Night Live to endorse Hillary Clinton.
The day before the 58-year-old actor looked understandably morose as he strolled with his family in the Hamptons neighborhood of New York.
In his arm was his son Rafael. Also with the Blue Jasmine star was his wife Hilaria, 32.
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Time away: Alec Baldwin, 58, and wife Hilaria, 32, spent their weekend at the Hamptons on Sunday as they were spotted picking up coffee with their one-year-old son, Rafael
The actor made his statement about NBC after Time television critic Daniel D'Addario criticized the program in a series of tweets on Sunday.
D'Addario wrote in his final tweet: 'This show chose at every turn to display about as little courage or decisiveness as possible, beginning with having Trump host last Nov.'
Baldwin, who has been playing Trump on the sketch comedy show this season, responded by writing: 'How naive you are @DPD_, SNL tell people who to vote for? Don't think that doesn't cross their mind. But NBC execs kill that.'
Baldwin said about Trump last week on The Brian Lehrer Show: 'I don't hate Trump, but he's not somebody I admire, so it was more difficult.'
Not as cold? The 30 Rock actor, carrying his son in his arms, wore a half-sleeve black shirt and dark grey slacks as he picked up some coffee for the morning
Fall fashion: The yoga instructor donned a long black puffy coat, paired with dark tights and black boot heels as she sipped on her Starbucks coffee
NBC and Saturday Night Live did not respond to requests for comment. Saturday Night Live has never formally endorsed a candidate for president.
The actor was dressed in a half-sleeve black shirt, which he paired with grey slacks and leather shoes, as he carried his son and a cup of coffee.
The yoga instructor covered up a bit more in a long black down coat, leggings and boot heels that she accessorized with a long green scarf.
Live: Alec as Trump and Kate McKinnon as Clinton on SNL in October
She held a brown paper bag in one hand and sipped on her Venti Starbucks cup in the other while a black leather purse hung off her arm, as if she was headed to a business meeting.
Hilaria's wavy brown locks were styled down and pushed back by dark sunglasses.
And it was no surprise to see the happy couple in the Hamptons as Alec recently completed renovating their 18th century farmhouse that they bought back in 1995.
Telling Elle Decor how he wants to spend more time upstate and less in NYC, the 30 Rock star said: 'I think about how much I used to work, and how much I used to make that the priority... Now this is the priority,' as he referred to his family.
A voice: Hilaria posted a post-election photo on her Instagram last week in light of the recent election and negative comments the mother-of-three has received
Meanwhile, both Alec and Hilaria have been active on social media in light of the recent election.
The actor - whose received acclaim for his Donald Trump impersonations on NBC's SNL- has expressed his disappointment with the presidential election on Twitter.
However, he tweeted: 'The thing to focus on now is our families. To love those that were put in our lives to care for. Also our respective health, work and faith.'
Hilaria on the other hand - who has been hit with a wave of criticism for working out only a few weeks after giving birth - decided to use all the negativity that's spurred from her posts and from the election as a positive.
Posting a yoga pose on Instagram with her husband she wrote: 'Never silence an opinion that is respectfully stated. Having differing opinions is normal, important, and part of our incredible democracy.'
She was an outspoken supporter for Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.
And on Monday Lena Dunham continued to speak out against President-elect Donald Trump during the 'Election 2016: What Just Happened?' panel of the Glamour Women of the Year Summit which was held in Los Angeles.
The 30-year-old tried to process the shocking turn of events alongside New York Times op-ed columnist Maureen Dowd, activist and Dolores Huerta Foundation president Dolores Huerta, and moderator Lizzie O'Leary of Marketplace Weekend.
Ready to give her two cents: Lena Dunham dressed all in black as she arrived at NeueHouse Hollywood in Los Angeles on Monday to be a part of the 'Election 2016: What Just Happened?' panel during the Glamour Women of the Year Summit
Lena jumped right into the discussion, which was shared on Facebook, speaking passionately about the fear she is feeling following the Trump's victory.
She did not hold back, saying: 'I think so many women are feeling scared, unsafe, ignored by the fact that somebody who is a predator, and is openly a predator, will soon be residing in the White House.'
She added: 'That's a very terrifying fact that we are all going to have to reckon with every single day, and it can't be separated from his policy. It can't be separated from his politics.'
Speaking out: The actress, who was an outspoken supporter of democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, shared her opinions on the shocking election results
No holding back: Lena said that 'so many women are feeling scared, unsafe, ignored by the fact that somebody who is a predator, and is openly a predator... will soon be residing in the White House'
Lena continued: 'It can't be separated from any issue, because it cuts to the heart of what he feels about human beings. Women are human beings.'
Lena wore a long-sleeved, black jumpsuit, which featured a plunging V-neck front and black straps.
She teamed the trendy jumpsuit with a pair of classic, black pumps, and kept her accessories simple.
Dressed to impress: The Girls creator looked stylish in a black jumpsuit and coordinating Schutz pumps as she joined her fellow accomplished women onstage for the panel
In good company: Lena was joined on the panel by New York Times op-ed columnist Maureen Dowd, activist and Dolores Huerta Foundation president Dolores Huerta, and moderator Lizzie O'Leary
The Girls creator wore her shoulder-length, brunette tresses styled in soft waves, and showed off a nude lipstick.
On Friday, days after keeping mum about the election results, Lena shared her devastation at the loss to her website/newsletter Lenny Letter.
'At home I got in the shower and began to cry even harder. My boyfriend, who had already wept, watched me as I mumbled incoherently, clutching myself,' she shared.
Captivated: Lena could be seen listening intently as fellow panelist Dolores spoke on Monday
But, in the post, labeled 'Don't Agonize, Organize,' Lena also encouraged everyone to be prepared to fight back against any injustice.
Meanwhile, Lena's panel was one of many slated for Glamour's big event, which also features appearances by Issa Rae, Rebecca Minkoff, Chrissy Metz, Ariel Winter, and Maria Shriver.
She's been with her partner Kurt Russell since 1983.
And on Monday, Hollywood star Goldie Hawn got very candid about their sex life when she appeared at press conference in Melbourne.
The 70-year-old revealed details of a shared night in Aspen, Colorado, revealing: 'It was very romantic.'
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'It was very romantic': Hollywood star Goldie Hawn got very candid about her sex life with partner Kurt Russell when she appeared at press conference in Melbourne on Monday
According to KIIS, the Private Benjamin star said she and Kurt were about to get intimate when their 1987 romantic comedy came on the television.
The blonde beauty and mother of Kate Hudson said the pair then decided to watch the film.
Meanwhile, Goldie also spoke about her relationship with ex husband Bill Hudson, who she was married to from 1976-1982.
Speaking up: According to KIIS , the Private Benjamin star said she and Kurt were about to get intimate when their 1987 romantic comedy came on the television.(seen at the press conference)
Sizzling on screen! The pair are seen here in the film Overboard
The pair share two children, Hollywood star Kate and son Oliver.
According to KIIS, Goldie said the couple's relationship was falling apart when she filmed the 1980 movie, Private Benjamin.
She said she struggled to 'keep it together.'
Opening up: Goldie also spoke about her relationship with ex husband Bill Hudson, (pictured) who she was married to from 1976-1982
Goldie is in Australia to perform a comedy show and to promote her MindUP program.
MindUP is a school curriculum created by the Hawn Foundation as a tool to teach young kids the key to happiness and mindfulness.
On Monday night, Goldie appeared on The Project and said despite now being Hollywood royalty, when she grew up she thought her life would be 'normal.'
'I thought my life would look like a normal, what we call, a normal person,' she said.
'I got married, I had children, I had a white picket fence, I had my own dancing school and I lived happily ever after,' she adding, describing what she meant.
'That's what I thought when I was 17 and 18, and 19. And then things suddenly changed.'
He is set to make his acting debut on the set of Neighbours in the role of Jodi Anasta's on-screen ex-boyfriend.
And The Loop host Scott Tweedie, 28, has revealed he felt overwhelmed while filming his scenes for the long-running soap, which also stars the likes of Olympia Valance, Alan Fletcher and Ryan Moloney.
'I was a little star-struck on the set [of Neighbours],' he confessed to TV Week.
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'I was a little star-struck': Scott Tweedie, 28, revealed he felt overwhelmed while filming his scenes for the long-running soap Neighbours
'But I've met a lot of the cast before, so it was a bit easier,' he added.
He also revealed to the publication that he felt anxious about his acting abilities during filming, saying: ''Am I doing a good enough job for the other actors to bounce off?' I just didn't want to let the team down.'
The handsome showman is set to play the role of Jodi Anasta's on-screen ex-boyfriend Derek in his cameo appearance this week.
Spoiler alert! In the episode, which airs on November 18, Elly Conway (Jodi Anasta) will receive a text message from her ex Derek out of the blue, telling her that he is travelling to Erinsborough from Sydney to visit her
According to Confidential, producers have been impressed with Scott's performance during filming, with a source claiming that it won't be his last appearance on Neighbours.
In the episode, which airs on November 18, Elly Conway (Jodi Anasta) will receive a text message from her ex Derek out of the blue, telling her that he is travelling to Erinsborough from Sydney to visit her.
According to Digital Spy, Elly will accidentally chat about the impending visit within earshot of her obsessive admirer Angus, prompting him to fly into a jealous rage.
In glamorous company: Scott is set to make his acting debut on the set of Neighbours in the role of Jodi Anasta's on-screen ex-boyfriend
Old flames: Despite Angus' attempts to foil the catch-up, Elly and Derek manage to rekindle their romance for a brief moment
Angus hatches a plan to stop Elly's date from occurring, asking his friend Piper Willis to send a fabricated text message to her from a 'parent' who needs a tutor for their child.
His attempts to sabotage the meeting fall flat, however, with Elly and Derek finally rekindling their romance for a brief moment.
However, the date soon descends into chaos as the pair launch into a bitter argument.
That was fast! However, the date soon descends into chaos as the pair launch into a bitter argument
Former Home And Away star Jodi joined the cast of Neighbours in April this year.
She told The Daily Telegraph at the time: 'I've been very much actively pursuing a major acting role. I have been doing classes and auditioning intensely for probably three or four months.'
'It is nice to be a working actor and know I've got a couple of years at the same thing and working with such incredible actors in this cast,' she said of her new full-time gig.
New Zealand PM cancels Argentina trip after quake
New Zealand Prime Minister John Key cancelled a trip to Argentina Monday after a powerful 7.8 earthquake rocked his South Pacific nation, but still hopes to attend an APEC summit in Peru.
Key was scheduled to travel to Buenos Aires on Tuesday on a trade mission but said he wanted to stay at home until the scale of the quake's destruction was known.
"The situation is still unfolding and we dont yet know the full extent of the damage," said the New Zealand leader, who has confirmed at least two quake-related deaths.
New Zealand Prime Minister John Key, seen in October 2016, said he would personally call Argentine President Mauricio Macri to explain why he could not travel to a meeting with him after a 7.9 magnitude earthquak hit New Zealand November 14, 2016 Prakash Singh (AFP)
"I believe it is better that I remain in New Zealand in the coming days to offer my assistance and support until we have a better understanding of the event's full impact."
New Zealand officials have apologised to their Argentinian counterparts and Key said he would personally call President Mauricio Macri to explain the situation.
He added that he would still attend the November 19-20 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in Lima "if circumstances permit".
The jolt early Monday was one of the most powerful recorded in quake-prone New Zealand but Key said its impact appeared far less than a 2011 temblor in Christchurch that killed 185 people.
Trump seeks to calm protests -- and reassure own camp
Donald Trump sought in his first televised interview as president-elect to reassure Americans fearful of a crackdown on minorities -- while assuring his core supporters he will not let them down on gun rights, abortion or immigration.
The Republican billionaire -- whose shock election on a populist and anti-immigration platform has spurred days of protests -- told demonstrators they have no reason to fear his presidency.
"Don't be afraid. We are going to bring our country back," he said in the interview with CBS's "60 Minutes."
Melania Trump (L) listens to her husband US President-elect Donald Trump speak to the press at the US Capitol on November 10, 2016 Nicholas Kamm (AFP/File)
Trump said he was "saddened" by reports that incidents of harassment and intimidation of minorities had spiked since his election -- and called for it to end.
"I hate to hear that. I am so saddened to hear that," Trump said when asked about the reports. "If it helps. I will say this, and I will say right to the cameras: Stop it."
Millions were expected to tune in to "60 Minutes" for clues on how the populist billionaire will govern, and how far he intends to convert his strident campaign slogans into hard and fast policy.
Trump sent out clear signals to his core electorate on a string of flashpoint issues.
He reaffirmed plans to aggressively deport or jail as many as three million undocumented immigrants -- those with criminal records, he said.
Trump also said he stood by his pledge to build a wall on the Mexican border -- although he said it could include some fencing.
And on the key issue of the Supreme Court -- where one of nine seats is currently vacant -- he vowed his nominees would support abortion restrictions, and defend the constitutional right to bear arms.
"The judges will be pro-life," Trump told CBS. "In terms of the whole gun situation," he added, "they're going to be very pro-Second Amendment."
But he also signalled that he would not seek to overturn the legalization of same-sex marriage in the United States.
"It's law. It was settled in the Supreme Court. I mean its done," Trump said when asked on CBS's "60 minutes" if he supports marriage equality. "And I'm -- I'm fine with that," he added.
And in a final conciliatory gesture, the billionaire said he would forego the $400,000 salary that comes with the function of US president.
"I'm not going to take the salary. I'm not taking it," he said. "I think I have to by law take $1, so I'll take $1 a year," he added.
3 Political Uprisings And What They Owe To Social Media
Most of us couldnt survive day-to-day without the internet and its host of benign distractions. But for many others, the internet is quite literally a survival tool one that connects them with the rest of the world and gives them a voice to speak out against tyranny.
And since the world now seems gripped by unprecedented political turmoil, its worth a look at how the internet and social media specifically has helped protests and political uprisings gain traction all across the world, from the Dakota Access Pipeline to the war-torn streets of Aleppo.
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Dakota Access Pipeline
via Twitter/Allen Brown
One of the most contentious political issues currently underway on American soil is the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL), which threatens a burial ground and water source used by the Sioux people living on the Standing Rock Native American Reservation.
Yes in 2016, were still arguing about the merits of building new pipelines. Those arguing for construction point to crude oil and natural gas as inoffensive stopgaps to see us through until America gets serious about renewables. Those opposed to the pipeline suggest that the cost of the pipeline would be better spent on wind or solar farms, and that eminent domain is a terrible excuse for an oil company to seize and perform construction on land privately owned by American citizens. Either way, the burden of proof is now on Dakota Access, LLC, which has to prove the pipeline would perform a public service and that it has thoroughly addressed the standard safety concerns for a project of this magnitude.
Whatever your feelings on the matter might be, theres little question DAPL protesters have been grateful for the soapbox afforded them by social media. People all across the country have been checking in at the Standing Rock Reservation on Facebook in an attempt to 1) Confuse local police officers hoping to track would-be protestors and 2) Stand in (virtual) solidarity with the protesters in South Dakota and their supporters.
The demonstration has now reached a fever pitch, with Senator Bernie Sanders openly encouraging the President to halt the pipeline indefinitely. Thanks to the internet, this messy issue is getting the attention of all the right people.
Arab Spring and the Syrian Civil War
via Twitter/Zaher Sahloul
Elsewhere in the world, social media is bringing attention in areas of conflict where the stakes are even higher.
The Arab Spring has been an absolutely monumental event in recent history. It has helped to topple brutal dictatorships and bring awareness to Arab civilians throughout the world that there are entire hidden communities dedicated to rooting out corruption and weakening religions stranglehold on politics and public discourse. The Arab Spring reverberated throughout the world, but held special significance for Tunisia, Iraq, Libya, Syria and Yemen. Although messy and complex conflicts rage on in several of these countries, Tunisia has made the successful transition to democracy.
But that would never have been possible if the internet hadnt allowed these would-be revolutionaries to collaborate.
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Fear is the greatest enemy to a cause like this one. When whats being fought against is so entrenched and so powerful, simply knowing others out there share your vision for the future is strength enough. Thats the role Twitter played in Arab Spring and continues to play in the Syrian Civil War that resulted from it. People know now that they dont struggle in isolation, and that their problems have the attention of world governments that can help bring an end to the bloodshed.
In other words, if Syria goes on to follow in Tunisias footsteps, it will be because their revolution was emboldened by modern communication technology, which helped accomplish that which would have been impossible in another time and place.
Black Lives Matter
Twitter/Thomas D Bradley
Finally, no roundup of social media-backed revolutions would be complete without mentioning Black Lives Matter. You may be as troubled as I am by the pushback this movement has received from Americas conservative wings, but thats a discussion for another time. For right now, its worth merely reflecting on this loosely affiliated groups understanding of the power of social media.
Consider for a moment the message sent by Philando Castile's girlfriend, Diamond Reynolds, when she live-streamed the aftermath of his death on Facebook. Its hard to believe that Castile was just one of scores of black men killed by white cops this year, but his story was unique in the speed with which it was spread and the method used to do so. America knew what was happening even before the blood was dry, which is as remarkable as it is chilling.
This is an extreme example, to be sure but its incredibly instructive. The world has grown much smaller in just a few short years, and we owe it all to modern technologies. Without the Internet, police brutality, abusive pipeline companies and their (literal) attack dogs, murderous dictators and racist Presidential candidates would all still hold sway in their respective corners of the globe, unopposed. Technology gives us a voice and with that voice, unity.
Next time you hear a friend rhapsodizing about how contemptible social media is and how alone it makes us, point them in the direction of DAPL, or Syrians on the ground in Aleppo, who are proving that technology can be something more than a distraction.
Top photo: Twitter/Allen Brown
More from BUST
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Inside Standing Rock, The Most Important Native American Protest Of Our Time #NoDAPL
100 Women Of Color Leaders Want You To Sign This Pledge
Holly Whitman is a feminist writer and political journalist, originally from London but now based in Washington DC. Her work has been featured on Feministing, Fortune, Babble, Yahoo Finance and more. You can find her on Twitter at @hollykwhitman or at her blog, Only Slightly Biased.
After massacre, Central African town yearns for peace
A month after rebels killed dozens of civilians in Kaga Bandoro, residents of the Central African Republic town still live in fear despite the presence of UN peacekeepers in the country and the prospect of nationwide disarmament.
Returning to the scene of the massacre for the first time, Sylvie pointed to the ruins of the small home she built in what was a settlement for 8,000 civilians displaced during years of unrest.
"That's where I lived for three years," she said, recovering a comb from the scorched ground between the low walls of now roofless huts.
A UN helicopter flies over the newly formed camp for internally displaced people, in Kaga Bandoro, on October 18, 2016 Edouard Dropsy (AFP/File)
On October 12 the predominantly Christian settlement was attacked by remnants of the mostly Muslim rebel "Seleka" coalition, which overthrew the national government in March 2013, only to be dislodged the following January.
In apparent reprisal for the death of one of their own, the attackers killed at least 37 people and set fire to the camp.
"People were burned on the spot, like two children and a grandmother over there," said site watchman Michel Kenze, near a pump where children were drawing water.
After the attack, victims' corpses were left in the open to be eaten by wild pigs and other animals.
Thousands of survivors, including Sylvie, fled to set up another camp between a base of the UN's MINUSCA peacekeeping force and the runway of the town's airport.
- No longer in school -
Sylvie now makes ends meet selling peanuts and fritters in a marketplace opposite the MINUSCA base.
On the edge of the runway, young girls sing songs and play games. They are not in school.
"We had just started the school year on September 19. On October 12, an education inspector was killed. After that, inspections shut down," said an aid worker with MINUSCA.
"Civil servants had returned (to Kaga Bandoro), but they went back to Bangui after what happened," said local government official Paul Fradjala, who never ventures far from the UN base.
The large country's army, police and government have a very limited presence outside the capital, Bangui.
In 2013, Seleka's coup led to the formation of "anti-Balaka" vigilante units, drawn from the Christian majority, which began to target Muslims.
Both sides committed widespread atrocities in different parts of the country, even after Seleka was chased from power.
"We want peace, we want the armed groups to be disarmed," Sylvie said in her new home, a hut made from plastic sheeting where she stores her few possessions: a notebook, a jerrycan and an old mosquito net.
A national programme to disarm fighters in CAR was officially launched a year ago, but in practice little has been done since to actually collect weapons or demobilise combattants.
Sylvie no longer dares to visit Muslim traders on the far side of town over a bridge guarded by a few Pakistani UN troops -- members of the MINUSCA contingent accused of standing by as last month's massacre unfolded.
The Muslim quarter is busy with shops selling food and clothes, a motel and a garage fixing motorbike taxis.
In this part of town, Seleka fighters, along with gunmen from neighbouring Sudan and Chad, rub shoulders with civilians, residents say.
"In the displaced persons' camps, there are also armed men among the civilians and MINUSCA sees and knows about them," counters Idriss Al Bachar, a young Seleka leader.
- Tax on cattle -
As much as he condemns the October massacre, Bachar is not in favour of disarmament, arguing that the rights and safety of the Muslim minority -- between 15 and 20 percent of the country's 4.5 million people -- are not yet guaranteed.
"There is a climate of impunity in CAR, where members of armed groups and militias alleged to have committed appalling human rights abuses and crimes under international law, move freely throughout the country and continue to fuel violence," Amnesty International's Central Africa Researcher, Ilana Allegrozzi said Friday.
There is an economic aspect to this impunity, according to Azrak Mahmat, an official in Kaga Bandoro's cattle market.
"I pay 11,000 CFA francs ($16) in tax to Seleka for every head of cattle, he said.
"When I load my vehicle to go to Bangui, the anti-balaka threaten me as well", he added.
In the town's Muslim quarter, Abdelkarim, 56, and his Christian neighbour, Isakho Ndenga, 71, have enjoyed a decades-long friendship that has survived civil war and sectarian violence.
Could they be an example for their country? "Inch Allah", the Muslim replies. If God wills it.
A man builds a tent at the newly formed camp for internally displaced people, in Kaga Bandoro, on October 19, 2016 Edouard Dropsy (AFP/File)
Exiled writer Nasreen fears for Bangladesh's future
Having herself been the subject of fatwas and forced into exile by fundamentalist critics of her writing, Taslima Nasreen despairs at the wave of assassinations of secular bloggers in her native Bangladesh.
"You know Islamisation started in Bangladesh in the 1980s and in the 80s I was very worried," recalls the prize-winning poet and novelist in an interview with AFP in New Delhi.
"I wrote about Islamic fundamentalists. I said that they should not go unopposed or they will destroy our society, that's exactly what's happened now."
Exiled author Taslima Nasreen has not set foot in her native Bangladesh for 22 years Sajjad Hussain (AFP)
It's 22 years since Nasreen last set foot in Bangladesh, having been forced to flee in fear of her life after tens of thousands of Islamists took to the streets to denounce her writing.
Her novels and essays had brought her no shortage of enemies and she upset the government by railing against rights abuses and the treatment of women. She infuriated Islamists with her fiercely pro-secular views.
She was feted abroad, winning the European parliament's Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought in 1994, but the government back home filed a case against her for hurting religious sentiment.
After three separate fatwas calling for her execution were issued, Nasreen fled first to Europe before moving to Bangladesh's giant neighbour India.
Her plight is all too familiar to a new generation of secular writers whose blogs criticising fundamentalism have been met with fury by Islamist groups.
Dozens have either been murdered with machetes, gone into hiding or fled with their families to Europe and the United States.
No one has been convicted of any of the attacks although some suspects have been killed during raids by the security forces.
Bangladesh, which gained its independence in 1971 after winning a war of secession against Pakistan, is an officially secular nation.
But Nasreen says Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government has made the same mistake as her predecessors by failing to stand firm against hardliners who want the country to be defined by religion.
"I am very worried. Bangladesh was born as a secular state but now it's a kind of fundamentalist state," she said.
"Islamic fundamentalists are very powerful, they can kill anyone if they want.
"And because those atheist bloggers criticise Islam -- they criticise other religions too -- but because they criticised Islam they were hacked to death and the government didn't take any action against those killers," she added.
- Living with fear -
As someone who lives round-the-clock with protection, Nasreen says it's important not to allow oneself to be overwhelmed by fear.
"I think I've got used to it, you have to," she said inside her small apartment, armed guards stationed outside.
"Of course every time a fatwa is issued I get shocked, I get sad, I get scared and then you know you have to live your every day life.
"You cannot think of death all the time, then it's not a living. If I think of death all the time then I would not have been able to write so many books."
Since her first collection of poetry came out in 1982, Nasreen has had more than 40 books published.
Arguably her most famous work was the 1993 novel "Lajja" (Bengali for Shame) which was about the persecution of a Hindu family living in Bangladesh, where more than 90 percent of the population is Muslim.
Nasreen's latest book "Exile" is a memoir about how she was hounded out of the Indian state of West Bengal a decade ago following protests by Muslim groups who tried to force her out of the country for good.
She remains effectively persona non grata in West Bengal and her enmity for her critics is as sharp as ever.
"Who are they to decide who can stay in India and who cannot? ... Those people committed a crime but you are punishing me for no fault of mine," she says animatedly on her rocking chair.
"They issued a fatwa, put a price on my head -- which is illegal in India -- but nobody was punished for that. I was punished for that, the victim was punished."
Nasreen's home is dotted with stickers and banners with slogans of the causes close to her heart, such as "Proud To Be A Feminist" and "Atheism Cures Religious Terrorism".
A book of cartoons from the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo is displayed prominently on her coffee table.
- Right to offend -
Twelve people were shot dead in Charlie Hebdo's offices in January last year by Islamist gunmen who had taken offence to cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed.
Nasreen argues the right to offend is a fundamental part of freedom of expression.
"Many of my books, people say they hurt their religious feelings," she said.
"But I think that if we believe in freedom of expression then we should believe also that everybody should have the right to express their opinions and everybody has the right to offend others and nobody has the right to live their entire life without being offended.
"Freedom of expression cannot exist without the right to offend."
Islamist groups have targeted Bangladeshi writers and activists whose work has criticised fundamentalism
Luck deserts Australia in second Test against South Africa
Luck deserted Australia in their desperate bid to salvage the second Test with South Africa snaring the vital wicket of David Warner in unfortunate circumstances in Hobart on Monday.
Warner, who was seeking redemption after his reckless dismissal in the opening over of the first innings, lost his wicket while at the forefront of Australia's fightback.
At stumps on the third day the home side were 121 for two, still 120 runs behind the Proteas, who have been in control of the Test since routing Australia for 85 on Saturday.
South Africa's Kyle Abbott (R) celebrates his first wicket of Australia's Joe Burns on the third day's play of their second Test, in Hobart, on November 14, 2016 Saeed Khan (AFP)
Usman Khawaja was unbeaten on 56, his ninth Test half-century, with skipper Steve Smith not out 18.
Warner flung his head back in despair when a ball from Kyle Abbott hit his hip and ricocheted off an elbow onto his stumps when he was on 45.
It gave the Proteas a huge fillip after Warner and Khawaja had recovered the innings with a 79-run stand after the loss of Joe Burns in the first over.
Burns lasted just four balls before he was caught behind, tickling at one wide down the leg-side from Abbott.
"We've done well with the bat, two unlucky dismissals, but that happens in cricket and the boys have shown some good fight, digging in even though the ball is nipping around a fair bit," Australian paceman Josh Hazlewood said.
"A really good partnership in the morning, a good first hour and that will go a long way to having a good day tomorrow."
Khawaja played some lovely shots in his vigil, providing great support for his captain Smith, who top scored with an unbeaten 48 in the first innings shambles.
- De Kock century -
Australia face a mighty struggle to prevent South Africa, already 1-0 up, from claiming their third successive series in Australia with only next week's day-night third Test in Adelaide still to play.
South Africa earlier extended their first innings lead to 241 before they were all out for 326 with Quinton de Kock plundering a century and Hazlewood finishing with six for 89.
After Sunday's second day was washed out, the Australians chased early wickets but de Kock and Bavuma batted South Africa into a position of strength with a century stand.
The swashbuckling wicketkeeper, likened to Australian Test great Adam Gilchrist, was bowled by Hazlewood just before lunch for 104 off 143 balls with 17 boundaries.
His stand of 144 with Bavuma was the highest by a visiting team in Hobart for the sixth wicket.
"Obviously, I'm happy with what we've done and what we've achieved, but the game has only gone past halfway and we still have a lot to do," de Kock said.
"The Aussies looked very determined in their second innings so we have a lot to play for."
De Kock has scored 540 runs in 2016 in just nine Test innings and leads the year's international averages with 80 having been unbeaten twice.
He became only the fourth South African to register 50 or more in five consecutive Tests after he swept spinner Nathan Lyon for four over wide mid-on.
Shortly after lunch, Tembo Bavuma was surprised by a rearing delivery to spoon an easy catch to Nathan Lyon at point and give Joe Mennie his first Test wicket for 74.
Vernon Philander was the last man out for 32 off 28 balls, caught behind off Hazlewood.
South Africa's batsman Quinton de Kock celebrates his 100-runs on the third day's play of their second Test match against Australia, in Hobart, on November 14, 2016 Saeed Khan (AFP)
Kerry in Oman for Yemen peace efforts
US Secretary of State John Kerry held talks Monday with officials in Oman on efforts to end Yemen's 19-month-old conflict, state media in Muscat said.
Kerry met with Oman's ruler Sultan Qaboos to discuss "the conflict in Yemen and the urgent need to find a durable political settlement to ease the suffering of the Yemeni people", said US State Department spokesman John Kirby.
They welcomed a peace roadmap proposed by UN envoy Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed that was rejected by Yemen's President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi, he added.
John Kerry's visit to Oman was one of his last trips as secretary of state before President Barack Obama's administration steps down in January Mark Ralston (AFP)
Kerry also "expressed the United States' deep appreciation for the helpful role Oman played in securing the recent release of US citizens held in Yemen".
Oman maintains good ties with Iran which is accused of supporting Yemen's Shiite Huthi rebels.
Muscat is also a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), led by regional powerhouse Saudi Arabia, which backs Hadi's internationally-recognised government.
It has mediated the release of several Westerners held in Yemen, the latest being an American identified as Wallead Yusuf Pitts Luqman who was transported to Muscat from rebel-held Sanaa on an Omani military aircraft on November 7.
Oman is the only GCC member not taking part in the Saudi-led military coalition bombing rebels in Yemen since March 2015, but it still maintains good ties with Saudi Arabia.
Kerry's visit to Oman was one of his last trips as secretary of state before President Barack Obama's administration steps down in January.
The US chief diplomat has been pushing for a settlement in Yemen, where the deadly conflict between rebels and the government escalated after the Saudi-led Arab coalition intervened on the side of the government.
Oman has also used its links to mediate peace talks between the insurgents and Hadi's government.
More than 7,000 people have been killed and nearly 37,000 wounded in Yemen since March 2015, and the UN says millions are in need of food aid.
Another 21 million people urgently need health services, according to the United Nations.
On Monday, 12 civilians, including a child, were killed in an air raid that targeted a convoy of lorries in central Ibb province, while nine rebels were killed in an ambush in the same region, military and medical sources said.
Heavy pollution shuts schools in Iran's capital
Iran shut schools and apologised to tourists Monday as its cities were hit by choking levels of air pollution.
A blanket of brown-white smog descended on the capital Tehran on Sunday, blocking views of the mountains that line its northern edge and forcing many of its 14 million residents to retreat indoors or don face masks in the street.
The pollution in Tehran hit 156 on the Air Quality Index of deadly airborne particles, over the 150 considered "unhealthy" for the general public. In tourist hotspot Isfahan the level hit 167.
Exhaust fumes from millions of cars and motorcycles that ply Tehran's roads account for 80 percent of its pollution, which increases in winter as emissions fail to rise above cold air
Officials apologised to foreign visitors for the bleak conditions.
"We hope our people's hospitality wipes the grey image of Tehran's beautiful attractions from their minds," the capital's tourism boss Rajab Ali Khosroabadi told the ISNA news agency.
Kindergartens and primary schools in Tehran were ordered to stay closed Monday and Tuesday, and traffic restrictions were tightened.
Ambulances were deployed to wait in the busiest and dirtiest areas amid warnings that children, the elderly and those with existing health conditions were at particular risk.
"Since no one does anything, every year the problem gets worse. The government should block old cars. We must improve public transport," Zeynab Nazari, a first-year sociology student, told AFP.
Every year, Tehran suffers some of the worst pollution in the world when cool autumn temperatures cause an effect known as "temperature inversion".
The phenomenon creates a layer of warm air above the city that traps pollution from some 10 million cars and motorbikes.
The latest smog cloud is expected to hang over the city until Wednesday when forecasters hope winds will move the stagnant air, an official told state television.
Tehran mayor Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf rode the metro to work Sunday in a bid to encourage people to use public transport.
Despite having around 100 stations, Ghalibaf says the metro is not sufficiently funded by central government, forcing millions to rely on cars.
Pollution has become a political football in recent years, with conservatives and reformists blaming each other for the problem.
Hardliners accuse reformist vice-president Massoumeh Ebtekar, who heads the environmental protection agency, of not doing enough.
Ultra-conservative daily Vatane Emrooz said Monday that 70 percent of deaths in Tehran were linked to pollution.
Ebtekar, in an Instagram post, said various measures to reduce factory pollution and provide cleaner petrol had led to "significant" improvement.
Still, weather conditions and heavy congestion remain a blight.
Two traffic restriction zones -- introduced in 1979 and 2005 -- have done little to solve the problem.
Local carmakers have been reluctant to introduce cleaner engines, while foreign firms have been kept out by international sanctions.
In 2014, almost 400 people were hospitalised with heart and respiratory problems caused by pollution in Tehran. Nearly 1,500 others required treatment.
The health ministry estimated that pollution in 2012 contributed to the premature deaths of 4,500 people in Tehran and about 80,000 across the country.
Manning is currently serving her sentence at a men's military prison in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas
suicide twice while in prison, most recently last month
Imprisoned transgender soldier Chelsea Manning, who is serving 35 years behind bars for leaking classified U.S. documents, has asked President Barack Obama to reduce her sentence before he leaves office, according to reports.
Manning, originally named Bradley, was convicted in August 2013 of espionage and other offenses after admitting to handing classified documents to the anti-secrecy website WikiLeaks.
Manning, who has already spent half a dozen years in prison, said she is not asking for a pardon and understands that the conviction will stay on her record, according to a statement accompanying the petition, which was published by the New York Times on Sunday.
Scroll down for full statement
Former Army Pfc. Chelsea Manning (left) has filed a formal petition, asking President Obama (right) to release her from prison for time served. She was convicted in August 2013 of leaking thousands of military documents to Wikileaks
'The sole relief I am asking for is to be released from military prison after serving six years of confinement as a person who did not intend to harm the interests of the United States or harm any service members,' she said.
Manning, whose suicide attempt last month was her second while in prison, spoke of the hardships she has undergone while serving in the military as a person coming to terms with her gender identity.
The 28-year-old private has repeatedly decried her treatment in the men's military prison in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas where she is appealing her sentence.
While hailed by supporters as a hero for exposing what they see as U.S. abuses in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Manning has been denounced by prosecutors as a traitor who put her country and comrades at risk.
Manning's petition included letters of support from Daniel Ellsberg who leaked the top-secret Pentagon Papers about the Vietnam War in 1971 as well as journalist Glenn Greenwald and former military commissions chief prosecutor Morris Davis.
Obama has just over than two months left in office before newly elected Donald Trump becomes president.
Pakistan says India killed seven troops in Kashmir
The Pakistani military accused India on Monday of killing seven soldiers in cross-border fire in disputed Kashmir, in what appeared to be an unusually high toll after months of surging tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours.
"Seven (Pakistani) soldiers embraced shahadat (martyrdom) at the Line of Control (LoC) in Bhimber sector in a crossfire LoC violation by Indian troops late last night," the military said in a statement.
"Pakistani troops while responding to Indian unprovoked firing targeted Indian posts effectively."
Tensions across the long-disputed de facto Himalayan border between India and Pakistan reached dangerous levels in September STR (AFP/File)
Following the incident Pakistan summoned the Indian High Commissioner to protest the killing of the soldiers.
"The Foreign Secretary deplored the increasing Indian ceasefire violations at the LoC and the Working Boundary, especially in the last two months," said a statement issued by the foreign office.
"The Foreign Secretary asked the Indian High Commissioner to convey to his government that it must stop the provocative firing and observe the ceasefire. Pakistan is pursuing a policy of restraint, which should not be construed as a sign of weakness," the statement said.
However the Indian army alleged that the ceasefire violation was initiated by Pakistan.
"There was a brief ceasefire violation, initiated by Pakistan in Naushera sector, which was effectively retaliated last night," Col N N Joshi, Indian Army spokesman in the Kashmir region told AFP.
Tensions across the long-disputed de facto Himalayan border reached dangerous levels in September, when India blamed Pakistani militants for a raid on an army base that killed 19 soldiers.
India said it had responded by carrying out "surgical strikes" across the heavily militarised border, sparking a furious reaction from Islamabad, which denied the strikes took place.
There have since been repeated outbreaks of cross-border firing, with both sides reporting deaths and injuries including of civilians, though the deaths of seven soldiers in what appeared to be one such incident is relatively high.
The border skirmishes come against the backdrop of months of protests against Indian rule of Kashmir, sparked by the killing of a popular rebel leader in July.
Nearly 90 people, most of them young protesters, have been killed in clashes with security forces in Indian-administered Kashmir since then.
Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif accused India of carrying out the latest cross-border skirmishes in an effort to distract the world's attention from the violent protests.
"We are fully capable of defending our soil against any aggression," he added in a statement.
Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since the end of British colonial rule in 1947. Both claim the Himalayan territory in full and have fought two wars over the mountainous region.
DR Congo PM resigns but opposition wants Kabila to quit
Congolese Prime Minister Augustin Matata resigned Monday to make way for an opposition figure to take his place following a controversial deal that effectively extends the president's term in office.
The decision to delay presidential polls until at least late 2017 was part of a deal agreed in October by the government and fringe opposition groups that has been boycotted as a sham by the mainstream opposition.
The deal, which followed a "national dialogue", was aimed at calming soaring political tensions.
Augustin Matata Ponyo, then Democratic Republic of Congo prime minister, pictured during an interview in Kinshasa on April 13, 2015 Federico Scoppa (AFP/File)
"I have offered my resignation as well as those of the members of my government... to respond to the spirit and the letter of the accord," said Matata as he left a meeting with President Joseph Kabila.
The opposition has accused Kabila, who has been in office since 2001, of manipulating the electoral system to stay in power after his second term ends on December 20.
Kabila will address the situation on Tuesday when he speaks to parliament to discuss "the state of the nation", according to a statement read on state media.
Vital Kamerhe, who led the fringe opposition bloc that participated in the national dialogue, is the favourite to succeed Matata as prime minister.
Following a meeting with Kabila, Kamerhe said that the nomination of a new premier was "imminent" and the formation of a new opposition-led government would be complete within a week.
- 'Get on board' -
He added that the opposition groups which boycotted the "national dialogue" could still "get on board at any moment. We are still open".
The main dissident coalition Rassemblement (Gathering) -- which has rallied around veteran opposition leader Etienne Tshisekedi -- has rejected the deal that followed the "national dialogue" and stepped up its calls for Kabila to leave office by December 19 when his term ends.
Tshisekedi's UPDS party said the resignation was meaningless.
"The UDPS notes the resignation of Mr Matata," said spokesman Augustin Kabuya, adding that it "will however not resolve the crisis.
"The Congolese people don't want a new prime minister to be named but that Mr Kabila quits power" next month, he said.
The country has been in a state of crisis since disputed elections in 2011 returned Kabila to office for a second term.
A 2006 constitutional provision limits the presidency to two terms.
Violent anti-Kabila protests on September 19 and 20 triggered by the political instability claimed 53 lives, according to the UN.
A UN Security Council delegation in the country has called for a peaceful transition of power following the government's decision to delay elections.
Kabila took power in 2001, 10 days after the assassination of his father, the then-president, Laurent Kabila.
Joseph Kabila was first elected to a five-year term as president in 2006. He then won a hotly-disputed election against Tshisekedi in 2011.
Malaysia opposition MP sentenced to jail over 1MDB leak
A prominent Malaysian opposition politician was convicted and sentenced to 18 months in jail on Monday for leaking a classified document on a corruption scandal involving the prime minister.
The conviction of Rafizi Ramli, who has a record of exposing government corruption, was sharply criticised by the opposition and rights groups as a worrying use of a state-secrets law.
Rafizi was convicted of violating the country's Official Secrets Act by revealing parts of an Auditor-General's report into the scandal swirling around the state-owned fund 1MDB.
Allegations that billions of dollars were misappropriated from the 1MDB fund have triggered a scandal in Malaysia embroiling Prime Minister Najib Razak Manan Vatsyayana (AFP/File)
Prime Minister Najib Razak is fighting allegations that billions of dollars were looted from 1MDB, which he founded in 2009. The case has sparked investigations in several countries including the United States.
The Auditor-General's report had been declared a state secret by the government, drawing accusations from critics that the unprecedented move was part of a cover-up.
Rafizi, a parliament member and vice-president of the opposition Parti Keadilan Rakyat (People's Justice Party) plans to appeal.
If the conviction is not set aside on appeal, he would be ruled out of elections due within the next 18 months.
Rafizi has long been a thorn in the side of the ruling coalition, which has controlled Malaysia since independence in 1957, repeatedly exposing government malfeasance.
"The conviction and sentence will create a dangerous chill on free speech and result in a more repressive, opaque and unaccountable government," the Malaysian legal activist group Lawyers for Liberty said in a statement.
Najib, who denies any wrongdoing, has cracked down on critics to contain the scandal and last year brought domestic investigations to a halt.
BBC cancels Morocco debate on Islam and politics
The BBC has been forced to move a debate on Islam and politics from Morocco to another country because of problems over filming permissions, the broadcaster has said.
"Global Questions, our highly respected and internationally renowned current affairs programme, had planned to travel to Casablanca in Morocco for a debate about Islam's place in politics", the BBC told AFP on Sunday.
"Unfortunately, for unforeseen reasons related to permissions, we will no longer be filming this debate in Morocco but plan to take it to an alternative country," a spokesperson said.
The BBC was forced to move a debate on Islam and politics from Morocco to another country because of problems over filming permissions Carl De Souza (AFP/File)
French-language Moroccan newspaper l'Economiste said the episode would instead be filmed in Tunisia.
A flagship BBC debate programme, Global Questions is presented by Sudanese-British journalist Zeinab Badawi and broadcast on both television and radio.
The broadcaster said the episode was to be an "informed and balanced discussion" of the role of Islam in politics in Morocco and the region.
It was to feature a "high-profile panel of political, civil society and religious figures", it said.
The programme had been set to be recorded in late September for broadcast on December 4.
Bangladesh buys two submarines from China
Bangladesh took delivery on Monday of its first submarines, bought from China, as it seeks to boost its naval power in the Bay of Bengal.
Bangladesh paid a reported $203 million for the two submarines, a deal that reflects the country's growing economic and defence ties with Beijing.
Armed forces spokeswoman Taposhi Rabeya said they would become part of the country's naval fleet at the beginning of next year.
Bangladesh has paid China a reported $203 million for two submarines, a deal that reflects the country's growing economic and defence ties with Beijing STR (AFP/File)
"This is the first ever addition of submarines in Bangladesh defence force," she told AFP.
Bangladesh has been expanding its defence capabilities in recent years, building a new airbase close to neighbouring Myanmar, opening several new military cantonments across the country and adding new frigates to its naval fleet.
In 2013 the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina signed a billion-dollar deal with Russia to buy fighter training jets, helicopters and anti-tank missiles.
Hasina announced the plan to purchase two submarines the same year as part of her government's move to build a modern navy to defend the resource-rich Bay of Bengal.
A UN tribunal has settled Bangladesh's long-standing maritime border disputes with neighbours Myanmar and India, paving the way for Dhaka to invite bids from multinational firms to explore for oil in the Bay.
Bangladesh officials say that has ensured the country's sovereignty over 111,631 square kilometres (43,100 square miles) of sea, an area nearly equal to its landmass.
Coalition advisers help alliance fight for IS Syria bastion
On the roof of a house in northern Syria, a foreign soldier from the US-led coalition against the Islamic State group monitors progress towards the jihadist bastion of Raqa.
He is one of a few dozen advisers from the international coalition helping a Kurdish-Arab alliance known as the Syrian Democratic Forces advance towards IS's Syrian stronghold.
The advisers are leery of journalists, demanding that an AFP photographer stop taking photographs and leave when they spot him.
Fighters from a Kurdish-Arab alliance known as the Syrian Democratic Forces pictured in the northern Syrian village of al-Huriya on November 11, 2016 near the front line of fighting against jihadists of the Islamic State group Delil Souleiman (AFP/File)
SDF sources say that around 50 foreign troops are involved in the operation, which began on November 6, primarily to guide anti-IS coalition air strikes.
AFP journalists on the ground have seen soldiers with US markings on their uniforms, along with others speaking French.
The coalition's press office declined to detail the number of its forces on the ground, or their nationalities, but confirmed they were playing a wide-ranging role in the fight for Raqa.
"As part of the coalition's commitment to advise, assist and accompany the SDF, we are asked to help with operational planning, the coordination of air strikes, arranging troop movements, training and supplying equipment to the SDF for the isolation of Raqa," a spokesperson told AFP.
In the village of Al-Huriya, one adviser peers through binoculars at the fighting in the nearby village of Al-Heisha, which SDF fighters eventually wrenched from IS control on Friday.
On radios, SDF fighters can be heard relaying details to commanders about their progress and where they might need help from the coalition aircraft flying constantly overhead.
- 'Civilian human shields' -
"The forces advancing on the ground give us coordinates close to the targets," says SDF commander Ahmed Osman, in the yard of another house that has been turned into a command centre.
"They calculate the distances between them and the mercenaries and work out where the fire is coming from, then they send us the coordinates and we transmit them to the coalition so the targets are hit."
The strikes are sometimes used against one of IS's favoured weapons: suicide car bombs.
"Sometimes we take them out with our weapons, but other times coalition aircraft strike them after we tell them the coordinates," Osman says.
The US-led coalition began strikes in Syria in September 2014, and has worked closely with Syrian Kurdish-led forces to push IS from large swathes of territory.
Such cooperation has angered Washington's NATO ally Turkey, which considers the main Syrian Kurdish YPG militia a "terrorist" group, and is currently waging its own offensive inside Syria, targeting both IS and the Kurds.
On the ground, SDF vehicles speed through the desert towards the front line, despite the mortar rounds IS fires as it struggles to hang on to Al-Heisha.
"Our comrades are preparing for an attack, and the mercenaries are firing mortars, but planes are over the region now," says Akid Kobane, another SDF commander.
Kobane says the air strikes are a key part of the SDF assault, considered a precise way to target IS while minimising civilian casualties.
"IS is using civilians as human shields," he says.
"We're not using heavy weapons in the battle for Raqa, we're relying on personal weapons and the coalition's strikes."
- Concealing car bombs -
In a bid to protect themselves, some civilians have raised white flags on their roofs, but there have been allegations of civilian deaths in air strikes.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based monitor, reported at least 20 civilians killed in coalition strikes on Al-Heisha on November 9.
An SDF spokeswoman at the time dismissed the report as IS propaganda, although the coalition said it was investigating the incident.
Civilians who have fled the fighting confirm that IS is embedded among local residents.
"There are always strikes on areas where Daesh (IS) is present... and Daesh hides itself, even among children," says 38-year-old Amsha at a makeshift camp for displaced civilians outside the town of Ain Issa, around 50 kilometres (30 miles) north of Raqa.
"Our children are terrified when the planes are overhead. We've a little girl who shrieks 'Plane, plane!' each time she hears one and runs to hide," she says.
"Daesh would hide explosive-packed cars between houses to try to conceal them from the planes," adds Ghada, in her twenties.
"The jihadists would tell us they had no problem dying, so why would they care if civilians are killed alongside them?"
Japan, S. Korea ink controversial intelligence deal
South Korea and Japan reached a controversial deal Monday to share defence intelligence, Japanese officials said, despite protests from opposition parties and activists in Seoul.
Japan controlled the Korean peninsula as a colony from 1910-1945, with the legacy of the harsh rule marring relations with both North and South Korea today.
South Korea and Japan were on the verge of signing a deal in June 2012, but Seoul suddenly backtracked, with Japanese media blaming anti-Japanese sentiment among the South Korean public for the move.
A South Korean (L) and a Japanese flag pictured at the Foreign Ministry in Seoul in September 2006 as delegations hold a meeting to discuss their maritime borders Kim Jae-Hwan (AFP/File)
Both sides reopened talks last month following North Korea's continued advances in its nuclear and missile programmes, which are seen as a threat in both countries.
Officials meeting in Japan's capital "reached a working agreement and conducted a provisional signing," Japan's foreign ministry said in a statement, without providing details.
"We will continue making final arrangements toward the official signing," the statement said.
The issue remains divisive in South Korea and the timing comes as the country has seen massive street demonstrations calling for the resignation of President Park Geun-Hye over a domestic political scandal.
The deal has been fiercely opposed by South Korean opposition parties and civic activists, citing Seoul's failure to seek public support and historical sensitivities.
"Japan, which once occupied the Korean peninsula and enslaved Koreans with its military might, is still not admitting a lot of its past atrocities," the main opposition Democratic Party said in a statement Monday before the agreement was announced.
"This deal is an unpatriotic, humiliating deal that is opposed by our own people and not accepted by history."
The party also voiced concern over Japan's growing military ambitions under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, describing the deal as "the first step towards allowing and recognising Japan's military rise."
However Tokyo lauded the agreement, saying the move was "important" for checking North Korea's power.
"It is important that Japan and South Korea cooperate to deal with North Korea's nuclear and missile issues," top Japanese government spokesman Yoshihide Suga told reporters.
At least 10 Nigerian Shiites killed in clashes with police
At least 10 people were killed and several injured Monday when Nigerian police opened fire during clashes with pro-Iranian Shiites outside northern Kano, the latest round of violence involving the group, witnesses and police said.
Violence broke out when police tried to disperse thousands of members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) marching from Kano in Kano state, to Zaria in Kaduna state -- where they have been banned -- for the Ashura religious festival.
There have been several incidents of sectarian violence involving the IMN in the past year in Nigeria, with Sunni Muslim mobs attacking Shiite ceremonies just in recent weeks.
Police patrol in the northern Nigerian city of Kano, on September 17, 2014 Aminu Abubakar (AFP/File)
"The police arrived and started firing teargas canisters on the procession of Shiites to disperse them," grocer Ilyasu Ammani told AFP.
"I saw 15 bodies sprawled on the ground before the police evacuated them," he added of the violence in Kwanar Dawaki on the outskirts of Kano.
Witness Kabiru Mudassir said he saw more than "10 bodies being taken away in a police van."
Nigerian police said they opened fire on the IMN crowd, who were armed with bows and arrows, after one of their officers was hurt.
"They injured one of our officers and our men opened fire because they were becoming violent," said a police officer who asked to remain anonymous.
"Thousands of Shiite members obstructed motorists on the highway, they disturbed innocent motorists," Kano state police commissioner Rabiu Yusuf said at a press conference.
"Shiite members armed with bows and arrows and some dangerous weapons killed one policeman and injured three others," Yusuf said. "Eight Shiite members were seriously injured. They were taken to hospital and were confirmed dead."
The violence comes just over a month since 10 IMN members -- who were also in the streets for religious celebrations -- were killed in the town of Funtua in northern Katsina state following clashes with security forces.
In October, Kano police banned IMN from conducting street processions ahead of the annual Ashura rites.
In the days before, prominent Kaduna state governor Nasir El-Rufai had banned the group as an "unlawful society", saying it was a security threat and calling for security forces to "vigorously" arrest its members.
- 'Intentional heavy-handedness' -
The IMN seeks to establish an Islamic state through an Iranian-style revolution and has been in conflict with the Nigerian government over the years.
In December 2015 the group fought against soldiers for two days in the city of Zaria.
The fighting left over 300 IMN members dead while leader Ibrahim Zakzaky was left partially paralysed and blind in one eye.
Amnesty International later accused Nigeria's military of acting "unlawfully" by shooting "indiscriminately" at unarmed protestors.
Experts warn that Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari's response to the issue is stoking tension at a time when security forces are overstretched fighting Boko Haram jihadists in the northeast and Niger delta militants in the south.
"I see a pattern of intentional heavy-handedness in dealing with this group," Jos-based political analyst Chris Ngwodo told AFP.
"You have a situation where the Nigerian state only has hammers in its toolkit, and sees people as nails to be hammered in or out of existence," Ngwodo said, adding that he fears history will repeat itself.
Jihadist group Boko Haram took up arms against the Nigerian government following a 2009 crackdown on the group that killed leader Mohammed Yusuf.
Complicating the picture is growing concern that northern Nigeria is becoming the latest battleground in the proxy war between Iran and Saudi Arabia, after violent clashes in the region in the past six months between supporters of rival groups from the two main branches of Islam.
"Is this part of escalating Saudi influence on Nigerian policy? Is this part of efforts to remit or degrade Nigerian Shiites as a proxy for Iran?" Ngwodo said.
Governments around the world have stepped up efforts to block or censor social media and messaging applications, in a new blow to internet freedom, a watchdog group has said.
The Freedom on the Net report by the activist group Freedom House said online freedom declined in 2016 for a sixth consecutive year, amid new restrictions on messaging platforms such as WhatsApp and social networks.
A staggering two-thirds of all internet users live in countries where criticism of the government, military, or ruling family are subject to censorship, the report found.
Two-thirds of all internet users live in countries where criticism of the government, military, or ruling family are subject to censorship, the new report found. A map showing the worst offenders (dark red) and the least (pale pink) is shown. Grey countries were not assessed
THE REPORT IN BRIEF Internet freedom around the world declined in 2016 for the sixth consecutive year. Two-thirds of all internet users, 67 per cent, live in countries where criticism of the government, military, or ruling family are subject to censorship. Social media users face unprecedented penalties, as authorities in 38 countries made arrests based on social media posts over the past year. Globally, 27 per cent of all internet users live in countries where people have been arrested for publishing, sharing, or merely 'liking' content on Facebook. Governments are increasingly going after messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, which can spread information quickly and securely. Advertisement
The US was ranked fourth and the UK eighth in the overall comparison of how 'free' the internet is 65 different countries, while Estonia took the number one spot.
'Popular social media sites like Facebook and Twitter have been subject to growing censorship for several years, but governments are now increasingly going after messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram,' said Sanja Kelly, director of the study.
Messaging apps have become increasingly popular tools for activists, and many of them can offer encrypted communications which make it more difficult for the users to be monitored, the report noted.
'The key reason for the block of these apps is preventing users from disseminating news during periods of unrest,' Kelly said.
The report said 34 of the 65 countries assessed in the report have seen internet freedom deteriorate since June 2015.
Some of the notable declines were in Uganda, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Ecuador and Libya, while online freedom improved in Sri Lanka and Zambia and in the United States, due to the passage of a law limiting collection of telecommunications metadata.
Governments in 24 countries limited or blocked access to social media and communication tools, up from 15 in the previous year.
Even some democratic governments have been targeting applications that use encryption features seen as a threat to national security, like WhatsApp.
The report said 34 of the 65 countries assessed in the report have seen internet freedom deteriorate since June 2015. Green countries are free, yellow are partly free and blue are not free
CHINA'S 'DRACONIAN' CYBERSECURITY LAW Last week China passed a controversial cybersecurity bill, tightening restrictions on online freedom of speech. The bill also imposes new rules on online service providers, raising concerns it is further cloistering its heavily controlled internet. The legislation, passed by China's largely rubber-stamp parliament and set to take effect in June 2017, is an 'objective need' of China as a major internet power, a parliament official said. The law is largely focused on protecting the country's networks and private user information. But it also bans internet users from publishing a wide variety of information, including anything that damages 'national honour', 'disturbs economic or social order' or is aimed at 'overthrowing the socialist system'. A provision requiring companies to verify a user's identity effectively makes it illegal to go online anonymously. Companies providing online services in the country must provide 'technical support and help' to public security organs investigating 'crimes', which would normally include those related to speech. Advertisement
WhatsApp, which uses end-to-end encryption on its messages and calls, faced restrictions in 12 of the 65 countries analysed, more than any other app.
'Although the blocking of these tools affects everyone, it has an especially harmful impact on human rights defenders, journalists, and marginalized communities who often depend on these apps to bypass government surveillance,' said Kelly.
China was the world's worst offender for a second year, according to the report, followed by Syria and Iran.
Freedom House criticized a new Chinese law that allows for seven-year prison terms for spreading rumors on social media, a charge often used to imprison political activists.
It said some users in China belonging to minority religious groups were imprisoned for watching religious videos on mobile phones.
The report said authorities in 38 countries made arrests based on social media posts over the past year, an increase of more than 50 per cent since 2013.
Prison sentences imposed in some countries exceeded ten years. Some have been jailed for merely sharing or 'liking' content on Facebook.
'When authorities sentence users to long prison terms for simply criticizing government policies online, almost everyone becomes much more reluctant to post anything that could get them in similar trouble,' Kelly said.
Globally, 27 per cent of all internet users live in countries where people have been arrested for publishing, sharing, or merely 'liking' content on Facebook. Social media users face unprecedented penalties, as authorities in 38 countries made arrests based on posts
At least 15 countries temporarily shut down internet or mobile networks as another way of limiting online activism, the report said.
Some governments broadened the range of censorship to include images, caricatures and even emojis deemed offensive by regimes, Freedom House said.
In Egypt, for example, a student who posted a photo depicting President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi with Mickey Mouse ears got a three-year prison term.
'When faced with humorous memes and cartoons of themselves, some world leaders are thin-skinned and lash out,' said Kelly.
EU sanctions 17 Syrian ministers, central bank governor
The European Union on Monday placed 17 Syrian ministers plus the central bank governor on a sanctions blacklist targeting the regime of President Bashar al-Assad over attacks on civilians.
They face travel bans and asset freezes for "being responsible for the violent repression against the civilian population in Syria, benefiting from or supporting the regime, and/or being associated with such persons," an EU statement said.
EU leaders agreed at a summit in October to increase sanctions against the Assad regime, citing devastating attacks on Syria's second city of Aleppo, and added 10 top military and government officials to the list.
EU leaders agreed at a summit in October to increase sanctions against regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad (pictured)
But suggestions they might also sanction Russia, which has backed long-time ally Assad's offensives against rebel forces and flown many of the missions against Aleppo, were dropped after sharp differences emerged.
The decision brings to more than 230 the number of Syrian individuals hit with travel bans or asset freezes, it said.
Israel settlement ruling sets new challenge for PM
Israel's high court Monday rejected a government bid to delay the evacuation of a wildcat Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank, in a fresh challenge for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The Amona outpost is under a court order to be evacuated by December 25 since it was built on private Palestinian land, but right-wingers in Netanyahu's cabinet have called for the around 40 families living there to be allowed to remain.
"The evacuation must occur before December 25," the high court said in its ruling. "The court rejects the delay requested by the state."
Israeli settlers start to build a new illegal outpost north of the West Bank Palestinian village of Ain al-Baida on October 25, 2016 Jaafar Ashtiyeh (AFP/File)
In what seemed to be a sharp criticism of the government, it said that "the duty to obey rulings is not a matter of choice.
"It is an essential component of the rule of law to which all are bound as part of the values of the state of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state."
Whether the Netanyahu government moves ahead with the demolition of Amona has been seen as a test case of whether it will heed international calls to halt settlement expansion in the West Bank.
The government, which had sought a seven-month delay while it considered where to move the Amona settlers, is seen as the most right-wing in Israel's history.
Key members of Netanyahu's coalition advocate settlement building while openly opposing the idea of a Palestinian state.
"We're aware of the duress of the Amona residents and are acting in different ways to solve the problem," Netanyahu told lawmakers from his Likud party on Monday.
Settlements are seen as a major stumbling blocks to peace efforts as they are built on land the Palestinians see as part of their future state.
Some 400,000 Israeli settlers now live in the West Bank, compared with about 2.6 million Palestinians.
The United States, the European Union and UN officials have warned that settlement building is eating away at the possibility of a two-state solution to the conflict.
Netanyahu is concerned that controversy over settlements could provoke an international backlash and possibly prompt US President Barack Obama to seek a Security Council resolution on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict before he leaves office on January 20.
- Threat to two-state solution -
Israel's high court ruled in 2014 that Amona, northeast of Ramallah in the central West Bank, must be evacuated.
There are concerns over how any evacuation will play out.
A committee of solidarity with the Amona settlers announced late Monday that "thousands" of supporters would be mobilised to block their evacuation.
In 2006, the demolition of nine permanent houses in the outpost led to clashes between settlers and Israeli forces.
With the Amona deadline in mind, a committee of Israeli ministers on Sunday approved a draft bill to legalise Jewish settlements built on private Palestinian land in communities that meet certain criteria.
The Palestinian landowners would be offered compensation in return for the land being seized.
The legislation is expected to apply to between 2,000 and 3,000 settler homes in the West Bank, which Israel seized in the 1967 Six Day War and which the Palestinians want for a future state of their own.
The bill must still be approved by Israel's Knesset, or parliament.
It had been pushed forward by Education Minister Naftali Bennett of the hardline Jewish Home party, days after he said the idea of a Palestinian state was over after Donald's Trump's election as US president.
Palestinian leaders denounced the bill and pledged to take the issue to the UN Security Council.
Palestinian foreign minister Riad al-Malki accused the Israeli government of seeking to "impose facts on the ground and create new realities by legalising the illegal actions that it commits".
The Palestinians also sharply criticised a separate bill that would limit the volume of calls to prayers at mosques in Israel and Jerusalem, a measure government watchdogs have called a threat to freedom of religion and a provocation.
"The recent Israeli measures are going to lead to catastrophe in the region," said Nabil Abu Rudeina, spokesman for Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas.
The international community considers all Israeli settlements in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem and the West Bank to be illegal, whether they are authorised by the government or not.
The Israeli government differentiates between those it has approved and those it has not.
Those like Amona are considered outposts as they have not been given Israeli government approval.
A boy walks in a wildcat Jewish settlements built on private Palestinian land in the occupied West Bank on November 14, 2016 Menahem Kahana (AFP)
Trump ready to lead: new chief of staff
President-elect Donald Trump is prepared to lead America and the Republican-controlled Congress is ready to work with him, his new chief of staff Reince Priebus said Monday.
In his first 100 days in office Trump wants to address fighting illegal immigration, cutting taxes, "getting his arms around" US foreign policy and America's place in the world and changing President Barack Obama's landmark health care law, Priebus told ABC.
"I think we have an opportunity to do all of those things, given the fact that we have the House and the Senate and we have an eager Congress ready to get work done," Priebus said.
Reince Priebus (R) shakes hands with Republican President-elect Donald Trump (L) during election night at the New York Hilton Midtown in New York City Jim Watson (AFP/File)
Trump himself said Sunday in his first interview since his stunning upset election win last week over Hillary Clinton that he plans to move aggressively in pursuing a conservative agenda.
The interview on the CBS program "60 Minutes" provided Trump with his first post-election forum to talk about what he will do after taking office January 20.
It also allowed him to try to reintroduce himself after an ugly, name-calling campaign has sparked protests in cities across the United States.
Trump, 70, is a real estate developer with no experience at all in government, and during the campaign he showed little familiarity with foreign or domestic policy issues, speaking only in generalities as he pledged to revive the economy and otherwise "make America great again."
Priebus on Monday was asked about a Wall Street journal report that Obama plans to spend more time with Trump than is common in US presidential transitions because he thinks Trump needs more guidance.
The two men met at the White House last week to start talking about the handover of power.
"What I see is a president-elect that is getting prepared," said Priebus, the former chairman of the Republican National Committee and one of many in the party who clashed with Trump during the campaign.
"I see a staff in New York that is very busy doing the best job that they can for the American people," Priebus said.
"And I see President-elect Trump being very calm and cool and collected -- and prepared to lead the American people."
Switzerland to return stolen ancient stela to Egypt
Switzerland will return to Egypt an ancient stela stolen from a temple dedicated to the goddess Isis, Geneva's public prosecutor said on Monday.
The stone slab bearing a relief design was stolen 30 years ago from the Iseion temple at the Behbeit El Hagar archeological site in Lower Egypt.
"During an inventory control in the Geneva free economic zone at the end of 2014, the federal customs identified... a granite engraving of unknown origin and alerted Geneva police, who opened a criminal case," the public prosecutor said.
An ancient stela bearing a relief design was stolen 30 years ago from the Iseion temple at the Behbeit El Hagar archeological site in Lower Egypt Fabrice Coffrini (OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC PROSECUTOR/AFP)
Egyptologist Philippe Collombert from the University of Geneva examined the artefact and it was traced to the Isis temple near the towns of Sebennytos and Mansoura in the Nile delta, the statement said.
Investigators compared photographs taken by French archeologist Christine Favard Meeks at the site in the 1970s to more recent ones which "established without any doubt that the granite engraving was stolen from" Behbeit El Hagar.
The tablet will shortly be handed over to Egyptian authorities.
The Iseion was one of the major centres of the Isis cult in antiquity, comparable to those in the temple complexes at Philae and Abydos in Upper Egypt.
Isis was venerated as the goddess of health, marriage and wisdom. She was the consort of Osiris, the Egyptian god of death and the underworld.
UAE jails Emiratis up to 10 years for Islamist links
A UAE court Monday jailed two Emiratis up to 10 years for their links to a "terrorist" organisation seen as a branch of the banned Muslim Brotherhood, media said.
The first defendant was handed a 10-year jail term after he was convicted of playing a "leading role" in a "banned secret group," the official WAM news agency reported.
The local Gulf News daily said in its online edition that he was found guilty of joining the outlawed Al-Islah group, which authorities accuse of activities aimed at overthrowing the government and seizing power.
The United Arab Emirates is a member of the US-led coalition that has been bombing IS jihadists in Iraq and Syria since September 2014
He will remain under surveillance for three years after serving his prison term, both sources said.
The same Abu Dhabi-based Federal Supreme Court sentenced another Emirati to seven years in prison after it convicted him of joining the same organisation, running one of its offices in the Gulf country, and promoting its ideology, the sources said.
The United Arab Emirates in 2013 sentenced 69 activists to up to 15 years each in jail following a mass trial that saw them convicted for their links to Al-Islah.
The trial was the largest in the history of the UAE, where authorities have cracked down on dissent and calls for democratic reform in the aftermath of the Arab Spring uprisings that swept other countries.
Also on Monday, the same court sentenced a citizen from Comoros Islands to three years in jail after he was found guilty of promoting the Islamic State group, the Gulf News said.
The man drew slogans and symbols on public law promoting the jihadist group as well as "slanderous and degrading phrases about state officials", it added.
The United Arab Emirates is a member of the US-led coalition that has been bombing IS jihadists in Iraq and Syria since September 2014.
Mauritania anti-slavery activists appeal jail terms
The appeal of 13 anti-slavery activists in Mauritania began Monday under heavy security as defence lawyers called for their case to be thrown out due to "legal inconsistencies", including torture in custody.
A court in Zouerate, northern Mauritania, will consider whether the sentences of three to 15 years in prison handed down in August to members of a group fighting hereditary slavery were justified.
Defence lawyer Bah Ould M'Bareck, acting for the members of the Initiative for the Resurgence of the Abolitionist Movement (IRA), said his team had "raised the procedural exceptions that we judge to be sufficient to have (the case) thrown out."
Rights group Amnesty International said in a statement ahead of the appeal that those convicted were not even present the day of the Nouakchott protest Ahmed Elhadj (AFP/File)
The lawyer said the activists had been "submitted to torture" while in custody, an assertion repeatedly made by the accused themselves.
The court decided to add the procedural claims to the main case, which opened on Tuesday evening, with the first three accused pleading not guilty, M'Bareck said.
The case is due to continue on Tuesday with more accused giving evidence, followed by speeches from the prosecutors and defence lawyers.
The 13 were initially convicted by a judge in the capital, Nouakchott, of using violence, attacking security forces, gathering while armed and membership of an unrecognised organisation.
The campaigners were arrested between June 30 and July 9 after a protest by a Nouakchott slum community that was being forcibly relocated as the city prepared for an Arab League summit on July 25.
About 10 police officers were injured during the demonstration, according to local officials.
The slum was home to many so-called Haratin -- a "slave caste" under a hereditary system of servitude whose members are forced to work without pay as cattle herders and domestic servants, despite an official ban.
Seven of the slum's residents are also appealing against their sentences.
IRA supporters flooded the court on Monday, according to witnesses contacted by AFP, following a morning sit-in closely watched by police.
Rights group Amnesty International said in a statement ahead of the appeal that those convicted were not even present the day of the Nouakchott protest.
"This is an open and shut case of the government trying to silence anti-slavery activists in Mauritania," said Kine Fatim Diop, Amnesty International's West Africa campaigner.
"From the outset this trial has been marred by irregularities, and allegations of torture that have not been investigated," Diop added, calling the legal proceedings a "farce" that had not proved criminal responsibility on the part of the activists.
Climate momentum will continue: US envoy on Trump vote
The global drive to stave off disastrous global warming will continue regardless of who heads the US administration, Washington's top climate envoy said Monday on the election of climate change denier Donald Trump.
"Heads of state can and will change, but I am confident that we can and we will sustain a durable international effort to counter climate change," US special envoy for climate change Jonathan Pershing told journalists on the sidelines of a UN climate conference in Marrakesh.
Before he was elected president last week, Trump called climate change a "hoax" and threatened to "cancel" the hard-fought Paris Agreement concluded in the French capital last December to limit global warming.
US special envoy for climate change Jonathan Pershing speaks at the UN World Climate Change Conference 2016 in Marrakesh, on November 14, 2016 Fadel Senna (AFP)
Pershing said the "shape and thrust" of the new administration should become clearer in the coming weeks, adding that, "I cannot speak for the President-elect's team or to their outlook on international climate policy."
"What I do know, however, is that... parties are deeply invested in seeing this work bear real fruit," he said.
"It was a global effort that made the agreement possible and the passion and the dedication that drove it," was in evidence still, Pershing added.
On Sunday, US Secretary of State John Kerry made an impassioned plea for America to maintain action on global warming.
"We will wait to see how the next administration addresses this but I believe we're on the right track and this is a track that the American people are committed to," Kerry said on a trip to New Zealand.
Trump's election has cast a long shadow over the Moroccan climate huddle, where envoys must come up with rules for implementing the goals and plans outlined in the Paris Agreement.
The pact seeks to limit average global warming to two degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) over pre-Industrial Revolution levels by cutting down on the use of planet-warming greenhouse gases from burning coal, oil and gas.
The Obama administration had been an ardent champion of the agreement, alongside China.
China's envoy, Xie Zhenhua, stressed Monday that tackling climate was a "common and shared responsibility".
"International cooperation is a must for us to address climate change," he said in Marrakesh.
Observers say Trump would have three options for pulling out of the process.
He could withdraw from the agreement itself, which would take four years, he could cancel the US' membership of the UN's climate convention and all its treaties, which would take 12 months, or simply ignore the US' emissions targets under the deal, which lists no penalties.
Russian fighter crashes in Mediterranean: defence ministry
Russia's defence ministry said Monday that a fighter jet crashed while attempting to land on the Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier in the Mediterranean off Syria, but the pilot survived.
In a statement to Russian news agencies, the defence ministry said the MiG-29K fighter crashed due to a "technical fault" a few kilometres (miles) from the carrier.
The pilot ejected and was recovered and taken aboard the ship. "The pilot's health is in no danger. The pilot is ready to carry out missions," the ministry said, quoted by Interfax news agency.
A plane comes in to land on the Russian aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov in international waters on October 19, 2016
The defence ministry did not say when the incident occurred, but said the plane was taking part in training flights. It stressed that flights were still going ahead from the aircraft carrier despite the accident.
"The flights of aircraft from the carrier are continuing in accordance with the set tasks," it said.
The ministry released a statement after US broadcaster Fox News reported the crash, citing US officials.
The Mig-29K is a multi-functional plane developed in the Soviet era and is used to strike targets both in the air and on the ground.
Russia acquired 24 MiG fighters last year. It also deploys Sukhoi bomber planes in Syria.
The Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier arrived in the eastern Mediterranean off the Syrian coast as part of a flotilla of ships sent to reinforce Russia's military in the area, its commander confirmed on state television.
The ship's commander Sergei Artamonov said in an interview broadcast Saturday on Rossiya-1 television that planes had been taking off from the ship's deck "practically every day for the last four days" to survey the area.
The flotilla has sparked concern from NATO that it will be used to take part in air strikes on Syria.
The fleet cancelled a plan to refuel at a Spanish port after Madrid came under pressure to refuse permission.
Russia has been flying a bombing campaign in Syria for the past year in support of its ally President Bashar al-Assad and has deployed a naval contingent to back up its operation.
Officially, 20 Russians have been killed in combat so far.
International warships to help New Zealand quake relief
Warships from the United States, Canada and Australia have been drafted in to help earthquake relief efforts in New Zealand after a 7.8 tremor devastated parts of the South Island, officials said Wednesday.
The ships were due in Auckland this week for celebrations marking the New Zealand navy's 75th anniversary but have instead been diverted to the disaster zone.
"It's heartening to see overseas partners so willing to alter their plans and offer their assistance," Defence Minister Gerry Brownlee said.
A handout photo from November 15, 2016, shows a New Zealand Defence Force helicopter evacuating tourists from Kaikoura stranded by an earthquake SGT Sam Shepherd (New Zealand Defence Force/AFP)
Brownlee said Wellington had also accepted unspecified aid from the Japanese and Singapore militaries in the wake of the quake that claimed two lives and caused massive infrastructure damage when it hit Monday.
New Zealand military helicopters on Tuesday started airlifting the first of 1,200 holidaymakers trapped in the seaside town of Kaikoura, which bore the brunt of the seismic jolt.
The navy ship HMNZS Canterbury is expected to arrive later Wednesday and Brownlee said he was also sending three other New Zealand vessels.
He said the international vessels were Canada's HMC Vancouver, Australia's HMAS Darwin and the US destroyer USS Sampson.
The Sampson is the first US warship to visit New Zealand waters in 33 years, ending a ban sparked by a Cold War-era diplomatic spat over Wellington's ban on nuclear-powered vessels.
US Secretary of State John Kerry said on a visit to New Zealand on Sunday that its presence was a historic moment marking "the normalisation of our security cooperation".
The international rescue mission's top priority is evacuating tourists trapped in Kaikoura, which has been cut off after huge landslides severed road and rail access.
The town has a population of 2,000, which was bolstered by tourists, mostly international backpackers attracted by the area's popular whale-watching cruises.
Police say water is running low, power is intermittent and hundreds of people are sheltering in evacuation centres.
Military helicopters airlifted out about 200 to nearby Christchurch on Tuesday and the warship Canterbury will take up to 500 on Wednesday.
Prime Minister John Key said rescuers would deliver much-needed supplies to the town before starting a clean-up that was likely to cost billions of dollars.
"It's more water and food, it's more chemical toilets, it's fixing up the road access, getting those tourists out and then ultimately the big clean-up job," he told TVNZ.
- 1,200 aftershocks -
Auckland holidaymaker David Foulds said he was relieved to get out of Kaikoura after the frightening ordeal.
"We thought it was some guys shaking the car, we didn't know what it was," he told AFP. "It (the car) was jumping up and down. It frightened the life out of me."
The tremor, one of the most powerful ever in the quake-prone South Pacific nation, hit just after midnight on Monday morning, with more than 1,200 aftershocks complicating relief efforts.
The quake triggered numerous landslides that dumped mountains of rocky debris on a main highway and ripped railway tracks 10 metres (30 feet) off course.
Huge fissures opened up in roads and some houses were rocked off their foundations.
New Zealand's official GeoNet said reconnaissance flights had noted between 80,0000 to 100,000 landslips.
"The landslides that have occurred as a result of the earthquake remain dangerous. Material can move at any time," it said in warning people to be cautious.
- Trump call -
One person died at a historic homestead that collapsed at Kaikoura, with another killed at a remote property north of Christchurch.
Experts said the relatively low death toll was because the quake was centred on a sparsely populated area and hit at night, when people were in their homes.
It was felt across most of the country, causing severe shaking in the capital Wellington, about 250 kilometres (155 miles) away.
The tremor ignited painful memories for Christchurch residents, which was devastated five years ago by a 6.3 tremor that killed 185 people.
Key flew over the quake's epicentre on Monday and said he was shocked to see such "utter devastation".
The New Zealand leader admitted he was concerned that tourism, the country's biggest export earner, would take a hit after images of the damage flashed around the world.
"People worry about earthquakes," he said, adding that many world leaders had phoned him to offer condolences.
But in the chaos that followed the quake he missed a call from US President-elect Donald Trump.
"I didn't see it. It was a crazy time," he said.
"Look he is trying to make contact and that'll happen sometime pretty soon... I'll keep my phone on."
Graphic showing a regional map of New Zealand following for the 7.8-magnitude quake that struck Monday John SAEKI, Laurence CHU (AFP)
Monday's jolt was one of the most powerful ever recorded in quake-prone New Zealand Alex Perrottet (Radio New Zealand/AFP)
UN envoy warns West Bank camp could 'explode'
The UN's top official on the Israeli-Palestinian peace process said Monday he was concerned the West Bank's largest refugee camp could "explode" if intra-Palestinian clashes worsen, during a rare visit to the Balata camp.
In what his officials said was the first visit in "years" by a top UN official to the camp near Nablus in the northern West Bank, Middle East peace envoy Nikolay Mladenov met with civil society figures and politicians including those believed to be opposed to President Mahmud Abbas.
Balata has seen an uptick of violence in recent weeks, with Palestinian security officials attempting a series of raids to capture alleged criminals in the camp -- leading to gunbattles.
Middle East peace envoy Nikolay Mladenov met with civil society figures and politicians including those believed to be opposed to President Mahmud Abbas in the northern West Bank Haidar Hamdani (AFP/File)
Analysts say Abbas sees the camp as a base for support for his political rival Mohammed Dahlan, who is currently in exile in the United Arab Emirates.
Mladenov said he had visited the camp to send a message that the "international community is watching" the situation on the ground.
"If you forget about these communities they will explode," he said in an interview with AFP.
Balata, where 30,000 people live in 25 hectares (62 acres), is the largest Palestinian refugee camp in the West Bank and played a key role in previous Palestinian intifadas, or uprisings, against Israel.
The lives of residents have worsened as the camps have been left behind economically compared with major Palestinian cities, said Mukhaimer Abusada, professor of politics at Azhar University.
"Dahlan, who is the main competitor against Abu Mazen, has exploited the situation in the camps by offering some assistance to those in the camps," said Abusada.
Dahlan, Fatah's former strongman in Gaza, was expelled from the party in 2011 but is now believed to have strong support in a number of key Arab states in the battle to replace Abbas, who is 81 and has been in power 11 years.
Mladenov met with local civil society leaders and teachers and also the camp's Popular Committee -- a political leadership body -- in a meeting closed to the media.
Abusada said a number of the committees members were believed to be allied to Dahlan.
Mladenov stressed the UN was not interfering in Palestinian politics but was trying to stop political differences crossing "over into an environment that becomes violent in which Palestinians stand against other Palestinians with weapons".
"Our role is to be able to talk to everyone and to send everyone a very clear message that violence is not the answer."
He added the UN remains supportive of Abbas's efforts to bring a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
"Abu Mazen is the person most committed to non violence and a peaceful resolution. If he is undermined that will affect the Palestinian cause," he said, using the Arabic nickname for Abbas.
In the run-down camp residents were wary of talking politics but one who did not want to be named said the Abbas-run Palestinian Authority was deeply unpopular.
Britain approves extradition of alleged hacker to US
Britain's interior minister on Monday ordered the extradition to the United States of a man accused of hacking into thousands of US government computers.
Lauri Love, 31, faces three separate charges for allegedly hacking into the networks of the US Federal Reserve, US Army and NASA, among others, in 2012 and 2013.
Interior Minister Amber Rudd paved the way for his extradition nearly two months after a British court ruled he could be sent for trial in the US.
Lauri Love, pictured in July 2016, faces three separate charges for allegedly hacking into the networks of the US Federal Reserve, US Army and NASA, among others, in 2012 and 2013 Justin Tallis (AFP/File)
"On Monday 14 November, the Secretary of State, having carefully considered all relevant matters, signed an order for Lauri Loves extradition to the United States," an interior ministry spokesperson said in a statement.
"Mr Love has been charged with various computer hacking offences which included targeting US military and federal government agencies."
Love has 14 days to appeal against the extradition order, the ministry told AFP.
He could face a lengthy prison term if convicted but does not risk being sentenced to death.
US prosecutors argue that Love disseminated the personal information of American citizens, including serving members of the military.
A judge granted the extradition request in September after considering issues including prison conditions and Love's health.
IS commander wanted by Italy arrested in Sudan: lawmaker
A veteran commander of the Islamic State group who was convicted in Italy of terrorist recruitment has been arrested in Sudan, an Italian lawmaker said Monday.
Giacomo Stucchi, a senator who chairs the parliamentary committee that oversees Italy's secret services, said Italian intelligence had played a key role in tracking down the jihadist known as Abu Nassim, a Tunisian national who was until recently reported to be leading a group of IS fighters around the port of Sabratha in Libya.
"I would like to express my satisfaction over the anti-terrorist operation that has led to the arrest in Sudan of the Tunisian terrorist Moez Fezzani," Stucchi said, using Abu Nassim's real name.
Abu Nassim lived in Italy for most of his 20s. He subsequently fought in Afghanistan and Syria before reportedly moving to Libya in 2014 Ashraf Shazly (AFP)
Abu Nassim lived in Italy for most of his 20s. He subsequently fought in Afghanistan and Syria before reportedly moving to Libya in 2014.
He first arrived in Italy in 1989 to work on building sites. Suspected of trying to radicalise and recruit other Arab immigrants, he disappeared in 1997 and resurfaced in Pakistan, on his way to join the late Osama bin Laden's forces in Afghanistan.
He was arrested by US forces in 2001 and held at the Bagram airbase detention facility. From there he was was transferred to Italy in 2009 after prosecutors filed charges of terrorist recruitment related to his previous stay.
He was acquitted in 2012 and deported to Tunisia, only to be convicted on appeal in his absence the following year. By then he was already fighting in Syria.
US students walk out of classes to protest Trump win
Hundreds of students in several US states, including California and Maryland, walked out of classrooms on Monday to protest Donald Trump's election as president.
Students in east Los Angeles, some of them carrying signs that read "Rise Up" and "Together We Stand" as well as American and Mexican flags, marched peacefully to a plaza in Boyle Heights, a predominantly Hispanic neighborhood.
Similar marches were organized in Portland, Oregon as well as in Silver Spring, Maryland, reflecting the emotions that are still running high one week after Trump's presidential win.
Students from East Los Angeles high schools march to Mariachi Plaza to protest against President-elect Donald Trump on November 14, 2016 Frederic J. Brown (AFP)
The protest in Los Angeles took place despite calls by school officials for students not to walk out of classes and to find other ways to express their anger at the election result.
"Although it has been nearly a week since the presidential election, many students remain concerned about the outcome and want their voices to be heard," said Michelle King, superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District.
"These are important conversations that need to take place. We want our students to know they are not alone. However, it is critical that students not allow their sentiments to derail their education or for their actions to place them in danger."
In Maryland, local media showed hundreds of students from five high schools marching through the city of Silver Spring, some carrying signs that read "Not My President" and at times blocking traffic. Bystanders shouted words of encouragement while some motorists honked their horn in approval.
The students could be heard chanting "we reject the president-elect."
Maryland school officials said the students all face disciplinary action unless they have an excused absence from their parents.
Monday's protests follow similar demonstrations that have taken place across the country in the wake of Trump's election, which will go down as the biggest upset in modern political history.
Protesters have denounced Trump's often-inflammatory campaign rhetoric about immigrants, Muslims and women.
"We will not accept Trump's sexism, racism, his put-down of LGBT folks," one student told the ABC7 news channel in Los Angeles on Monday.
Evelin Miranda, 16, of Los Angeles,said she was scared for her parents who are immigrants.
"I want to tell people that we don't want Donald Trump as our president," she told the Los Angeles Times. "Because he's racist and I have immigrant parents and I'm afraid that I might lose them."
Trump initially denounced the protests against him, saying they were "incited" by the media but then reversed course on Friday and praised the demonstrators for their "passion for our great country."
Hollywood honors Japanese samurai actor Toshiro Mifune
Hollywood celebrated the life of legendary Japanese actor Toshiro Mifune on Monday, honoring him with a star on its iconic Walk of Fame two decades after his death.
Mifune rose to stardom through Akira Kurosawa's classics, including "Rashomon" (1950) and "Seven Samurai" (1954), with masculine portrayals of powerful warlords that earned him a reputation as the world's best samurai actor.
He died in Tokyo at that age of 77 in 1997. He had been mostly confined to his home since suffering a heart attack five years earlier.
Rikiya Mifune, grandson of Toshiro Mifune (R), and his father Shiro Mifune attend the posthumous star ceremony for Japanese actor Toshiro Mifune in Hollywood, on November 14, 2016 Chris Delmas (AFP)
His death shocked Japan's cinema industry, which took pride in him as its most presentable actor in international cinema, fondly calling him "Mifune of the world."
Kurosawa cast Mifune in leading roles in all but one of 17 films he made between 1948 and 1965. "Rashomon," in which Mifune played a cynical bandit, won the Grand Prix award at the 1951 Venice Film Festival.
Mifune played a peasant-turned samurai leading farmers' resistance against bandits in "Seven Samurai," which inspired two Western remakes, both titled "The Magnificent Seven" (1960 and 2016).
Born in Qingdao, China, on April 1, 1920, to a photographic studio owner, Mifune joined film company Toho Co. in 1946 after serving six years in an Imperial Japanese Army aerial photography unit during World War II.
He appeared in around 170 feature films, including such foreign productions as Terence Young's "Red Sun" (1972) and Steven Spielberg's "1941" (1979).
He also starred in the 1980 popular US television mini-series "Shogun," based on James Clavell's bestselling book.
Mifune's last role on the silver screen was in "Fukai Kawa (Deep River)" in 1995, in which he portrayed a man tortured to the last moment of his life by his experience eating one of his comrades during war.
He left assets of 630 million yen (then $5.4 million), according to local tax officials.
"My grandfather passed away when I was nine so the memories I have of him are mainly as a grandfather figure, but I remember him as a gentleman at home," said his grandson, the actor Rikiya Mifune.
"He would talk in a gruff and manly manner and always have perfect posture, like a true samurai, even at home."
His life is the subject of documentary "Mifune: The Last Samurai," screened at the American Film Institute's AFI Fest this year. It is set to be released in US theaters on December 2.
Rise in racist incidents points to Trump-emboldened backlash
A surge in reports of racist incidents has minorities and civil rights groups worried that Donald Trump's election as US president has emboldened hate groups.
Swastikas and Nazi slogans scrawled on a Philadelphia storefront, xenophobic chants at a New York high school, threatening letters in the mail, insults on college campuses: reports like these have proliferated since November 8.
"I have a scarf on. Passed by someone on the platform today and he says, 'Your time's up, girlie,'" journalist Mehreen Kasana wrote on her Twitter account.
Asked about the outbreaks of anti-Muslim, anti-Hispanic bullying, US President-elect Donald Trump said in a CBS interview that he was "saddened to hear that" Andrew Renneisen (Getty/AFP/File)
Hispanics -- the target of Trump's most incendiary anti-immigrant rhetoric during the campaign -- appear particularly vulnerable, as the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) noted in tracking the rise of harassment of minorities.
Asked about the outbreaks of anti-Muslim, anti-Hispanic bullying, Trump said in a CBS interview aired Sunday that he was "saddened to hear that," adding it was "a very small amount."
"If it helps, I will say this and I'll say it right to the cameras. Stop it," he said.
- 'Pack your bags' -
"'Build a wall' was chanted in our cafeteria Wed at lunch. 'If you aren't born here, pack your bags' was shouted in my own classroom. 'Get out spic' was said in our halls," a teacher in Washington state told the SPLC, a non-profit that monitors the activities of hate groups in the United States.
SPLC collected reports of more than 200 similar incidents between Election Day on November 8 and Friday, against African Americans, women, and members of the LGBT community.
"It doesn't compare to the civil rights movement. No one is blowing up churches," SPLC president Richard Cohen told the New York Times. "But I don't think theres any question that there's been an increase."
Anti-Muslim attacks increased by 67 percent in 2015, the Federal Bureau of Investigation said in a report released on Monday.
Education institutions around the country, some with liberal reputations, have reported disturbing incidents in recent days and have sent out emails assuring their communities they are taking action to counter them.
Some incidents have involved graffiti on bathroom walls, including a modified version of Trump's campaign slogan: "Make America White Again."
- Emboldened extremists -
The insults have included some of the worst slurs against blacks and Latinos as well as words of contempt for homosexuals.
"Seig Heil" and Nazi swastikas appeared spray-painted on a storefront in south Philadelphia a day after the election.
Swastikas also appeared in Brooklyn, prompting police to open an investigation.
"Acts of violence in our beautifully diverse city will not be tolerated," the New York mayor's office said on its Twitter account.
Some incidents have involved more than verbal violence.
A Muslim student at San Jose State University in California reported that a white man tried to rip off her veil, nearly choking her.
Another student at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor told of being accosted by a man who threatened to set her on fire with a lighter unless she took off her Muslim headdress.
In the city of Missoula, Montana, tracts from the American Nazi Party accusing Jews of controlling the media were distributed in residential neighborhoods. The local synagogue asked the police to increase security.
Despite the tense climate, Trump picked firebrand Steve Bannon, a darling of white supremacists, to be his chief strategist.
Choosing him for a top White House post "only further emboldens the extreme fringes during this very tense time," warned Oren Segal, head of the Anti-Defamation League.
US may have committed war crimes in Afghanistan: ICC prosecutor
US forces may have committed war crimes in Afghanistan from 2003-2004 by torturing prisoners in what appeared to be a deliberate policy, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court said Monday.
Unveiling the results of a lengthy initial probe into atrocities in Afghanistan, prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said she would decide "imminently" whether to ask to launch a full-blown investigation -- and take the world's only permanent war crimes court into uncharted territory.
She stressed that the Taliban militia and the affiliated Haqqani network, Afghan government forces and US troops as well as the CIA all appeared to have carried out war crimes since the Islamic militia was ousted by a US-led invasion in 2001.
American soldiers wait to board helicopters at Kandahar airbase in Afghanistan in 2003 Kamal Kishore (Pool/AFP/File)
And she blamed the Taliban and its allies for the deaths of some 17,000 civilians since 2007 to December 2015 in a brutal insurgency with "numerous attacks" on schools, hospitals and mosques.
But for the first time, Bensouda highlighted allegations of "war crimes of torture and related ill-treatment, by US military forces deployed to Afghanistan and in secret detention facilities operated by the Central Intelligence Agency".
There was a "reasonable basis to believe that" during the interrogation of detainees, "members of the US armed forces and the US Central Intelligence Agency resorted to techniques amounting to the commission of the war crimes of torture" as well as cruel treatment and rape.
- Complex investigation -
If Bensouda does ask judges to authorise a full-scale inquiry, the tribunal would be taking on its most complex and politically controversial investigations to date.
But the United States has not ratified the court's founding Rome Statute, and it is unlikely Washington would cooperate in any investigation which would expose US forces for the first time to the glare of an ICC probe.
And while the US has been leading calls for those behind atrocities in the Syrian conflict to be brought to justice in The Hague, there is little chance of any US soldiers ending up in the dock here.
The former administration of president George W. Bush authorised the use of so-called enhanced interrogation techniques --including waterboarding -- after the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States.
Their use was abolished by President Barack Obama when he took over the White House in January 2009.
But the ICC could be set for a collision course with president-elect Donald Trump, who has said he is in favour of such harsh interrogation techniques and may re-authorise their use.
War crimes allegedly carried out by US forces were "not the abuses of a few isolated individuals," Bensouda insisted in her annual report to the 124 states that belong to the ICC.
Rather it appeared "these alleged crimes were committed" as part of "a policy or policies aimed at eliciting information through the use of interrogation techniques involving cruel or violent methods".
The aim was to "support US objectives in the conflict in Afghanistan".
Detailing her office's initial findings, Bensouda said "at least 61 detainees" were subjected to "torture (and) cruel treatment" by US armed forces in Afghanistan between May 1, 2003 and December 31, 2014.
"Members of the CIA" also appeared "to have subjected at least 27 detained persons to torture, cruel treatment... and/or rape on the territory of Afghanistan" as well as in secret detention centres in Poland, Romania and Lithuania between December 2002 and March 2008.
- Moving out of Africa -
Any prosecutions of Afghan forces could also be complicated by a general amnesty law passed by the Afghan parliament which came into force in 2009.
The ICC was set up in The Hague in 2002 to try the world's worst crimes in cases where national courts are unwilling or unable to act.
The report was released just ahead of Wednesday's opening of the annual conference of the tribunal's state parties, set this year to be dominated by the shock defections of three African nations, with Bensouda under pressure to widen the geographic scope of her investigations.
Kabul recognised the court's jurisdiction in February 2003, authorising Bensouda's predecessor Louis Moreno-Ocampo to probe atrocities on its territory.
But some African nations have led a chorus to quit the tribunal, accusing it of bias. Of the 10 current full ICC investigations, nine are based in Africa. The other is in Georgia, pitting the ICC against Russia which is also not a signatory.
Obama says Trump soon to face sobering 'reality' check
President Barack Obama cautioned against dire predictions for Donald Trump's presidency, saying his Republican successor faces a reality check if he tries to enact his most controversial campaign promises.
The outgoing Democratic leader made his comments on Monday at a wide-ranging news conference before he embarked on a farewell visit to Europe to reassure worried allies about a man he once warned was "unfit" to lead the United States.
Trump's election win last week over Hillary Clinton has been met with euphoria among his supporters, but also with a wave of protests across the nation that are unusual for the world's leading democracy.
US President Barack Obama (R) meets with Republican President-elect Donald Trump at the White House on November 10, 2016 Jim Watson (AFP/File)
The 70-year-old Republican billionaire -- who takes office in just nine weeks -- was holed up in his home office in Manhattan with his inner circle, working to shape his new administration.
While admitting that he had "concerns" about his successor, the message Obama delivered on Monday was designed to comfort those still ill at ease with Trump -- and a lesson for the billionaire populist in the art of the presidency.
Trump, a real estate developer and reality TV star who has never held political office, has threatened to shake up America's most important international relationships.
But Obama said that deporting millions of immigrants, tearing up mutual defense treaties with NATO and Japan, and unraveling global deals on Iran's nuclear program and the environment were not as simple as delivering tub-thumping rhetoric.
"Regardless of what experience or assumptions he brought to the office, this office has a way of waking you up," Obama said.
"Reality has a way of asserting itself," he added, offering his view that Trump is pragmatic rather than ideological.
Obama said that during a meeting with Trump at the White House last week, he had told the president-elect that his actions can move markets, tanks and public sentiment.
"I emphasized to him that, look, in an election like this that was so hotly contested and so divided, gestures matter," Obama said.
"It's really important to try to send some signals of unity, and to reach out to minority groups or women or others that were concerned about the tenor of the campaign."
"Do I have concerns? Absolutely. Of course, I have concerns. He and I differ on a whole bunch of issues. But the federal government and our democracy is not a speedboat -- it's an ocean liner."
- 'Pragmatic' -
Amid dire predictions about the end of the republic and the global order, Obama said that Trump's inexperience in politics and lack of intellectual baggage could be an asset.
"I don't think he is ideological. I think ultimately he is pragmatic in that way," he told reporters at his first news conference since the Republican mogul defeated his Democratic rival Clinton in last week's presidential election.
"And that can serve him well as long as he's got good people around him and he has a clear sense of direction," he continued.
Trump made his first two key appointments on Sunday -- onetime Republican National Committee chair Reince Priebus will be his White House chief of staff, and anti-establishment media firebrand Steve Bannon his chief strategist.
The appointment of Bannon -- the head of ultra-conservative Breitbart News who has championed the so-called "alt-right" perspective -- has raised hackles, with Jewish and Muslim leaders expressing concerns.
Asked about Trump's choice of Bannon, Obama gave a pass. "It would not be appropriate for me to comment on every appointment that the president-elect starts making if I want to be consistent with the notion that we're going to try to facilitate a smooth transition," he said.
More cabinet-level appointments will be rolled out this week, Trump's campaign manager Kellyanne Conway told reporters in New York.
Making the vital choices for Trump's cabinet has sparked intense infighting, CNN reported, with one source calling it a "knife fight."
The New York mogul has also spent time calling world leaders as he begins to develop ties with America's allies -- and adversaries.
"Getting his arms around foreign policy" is one of Trump's four top priorities, along with health care, immigration and taxes, as he prepares for his first 100 days as president, Priebus said.
"I see President-elect Trump being very calm and cool and collected. And prepared to lead the American people," Priebus -- seen as an establishment counter-weight to Bannon -- told ABC's "Good Morning America."
Obama said that Trump had already conveyed a "commitment to NATO" that seemed to run against his campaign promises.
"In my conversation with the president-elect, he expressed a great interest in maintaining our core strategic relationships," Obama said.
During a visit this week to Europe, and then Peru for a summit with Asia-Pacific leaders, Obama said he would be able to tell allies "there is no weakening of resolve when it comes to America's commitment to maintaining a strong and robust NATO relationship."
"This is a time of great change in the world, but America's always been a pillar of strength and a beacon of hope to peoples around the globe. And that's what it must continue to be," he said.
Candidates for cabinet and other positions in a new US administration Jean-Michel Cornu, Vincent Lefai (AFP)
US President Barack Obama said that Donald Trump had already conveyed a "commitment to NATO" that seemed to run against his campaign promises Saul Loeb (AFP)
Good Samaritan killed, 2 injured helping stranded drivers
ARLINGTON, Wash. (AP) The Washington State Patrol is urging people to be careful when helping stranded motorists, after two separate accidents on Snohomish County highways left one good Samaritan dead and two others injured.
The Seattle Times reports (https://goo.gl/daOog5 ) that the accidents happened with a span of about 20 minutes Saturday evening.
Washington State Patrol Sgt. Mark Francis said the first involved 46-year-old Trina Morgan, of Darrington, who was killed on Highway 530. Morgan had stopped to help a disabled car, and as she was helping a 9-year-old girl another car struck them both. Morgan was killed but the girl suffered only minor injuries.
In a second accident, 29-year-old Kyle Digges, of Lynnwood, and 32-year-old Jessica Bart-Greenough, of Mountlake Terrace, stopped to help after they saw a truck lose a wheel on State Route 2 near Snohomish. Another car hit the disabled truck, pushing it into the pedestrians. Both were hospitalized.
Francis says that if possible, people should use safety devices such as road flares when stopping to help.
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China's Xi reaffirms US relations in talk with Trump
BEIJING (AP) Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed the importance of relations with the United States in a phone conversation with President-elect Donald Trump on Monday, opening communication with a politician who had been strongly critical of China during his campaign.
State media reports say Xi congratulated Trump on his election in their Monday talk and said cooperation was the "only correct choice" for China and the U.S., the world's two biggest economies.
"At present, there is an important opportunity and huge potential in China-U.S. cooperation," Xi told Trump, according to the reports.
Trump had accused China of unfair trade practices and currency manipulation during the election campaign, threatening to slap a 45 percent tariff on all Chinese imports.
Despite that, Chinese state media largely favored Trump over his Democratic Party rival Hillary Clinton. She was disliked in Beijing over her promotion of the U.S. "pivot" to Asia that is viewed by China's leaders as an attempt to contain their country's rise to global prominence.
Beijing's rivalry with Washington largely boils down to economic issues, especially China's $334 billion trade surplus with the U.S. and accusations of unfair subsidies for exporters and the condoning of intellectual property theft.
The sides are also opposed over security in east Asia, particularly China's assertion of its territorial claims in the South China Sea where it has been creating new islands atop atolls and coral reefs. Beijing has also closely aligned its foreign policy with Russia, putting it at odds with the U.S. over issues, including the civil war in Syria and the deployment of U.S. anti-missile defenses in South Korea.
Aside from his criticisms of Beijing, Trump had touted his business dealings with Chinese companies, although he is not known at present to have any major investments in the country.
Syrian refugees regret move to Gaza
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip (AP) Like millions of Syrians, Wareef Hamedo fled the civil war in his homeland in search of safety and security. But in a decision he now regrets, he chose to go to Gaza.
Hamedo's family is among 12 Syrian households that found refuge in Gaza after the civil war erupted in 2011 and are now trapped in the war-battered territory, ineligible for most social services granted to Palestinians but also unable to travel abroad.
"We are trying to get out of Gaza to any European country or where a Syrian refugee can find care," said Hamedo, a chef from Aleppo who is an unofficial spokesman for the Syrian families here. "Gaza was a phase for the Syrians. We came to it because of the conditions that forced us to."
In this Oct. 31, 2016 photo, Syrian refugee, Majed al-Attar, poses while showing his expired Syrian passport and Palestinian identification documents at his family's rented house in Rafah, Gaza. Like millions of Syrians, the al-Attar family fled the civil war in his homeland in search of safety and security, but in a decision they now regret, they chose to go to Gaza. The al-Attar family is among 12 Syrian households that found refuge in Gaza after the civil war erupted in 2011 and are now trapped in the war-battered territory, but also unable to travel abroad. (AP Photo/Adel Hana)
About 250 families from Palestinian refugee camps in Syria made their way to Gaza in the first two years of the Syrian civil war. As Palestinian refugees, they were eligible for services such as health care, education and food assistance from UNRWA, the U.N. agency that assists Palestinian refugees.
About two dozen Syrian families also chose to migrate to Gaza after initially fleeing to Egypt. As the situation in Egypt deteriorated, they entered neighboring Gaza through smuggling tunnels. Some managed to leave before the Egyptian army shut most of the tunnels in 2013. But half still remain.
Egypt closed the tunnels following the ouster of Islamist President Mohammed Morsi, who had been a close ally of Gaza's Hamas rulers. The loss of the tunnels, along with a devastating 50-day war with Israel in 2014, caused Gaza's economy to collapse. Unemployment has soared, and the cash-strapped Hamas government has failed to provide shelter for the Syrians.
"We got many promises, but nothing was made," Hamedo said.
While UNRWA serves Palestinian refugees, the main international body assisting displaced Syrians is the U.N. refugee agency, which has no offices in Gaza. The Palestinian territories also have no official Syrian diplomatic mission, so the families can't renew passports or register their newborns. And because they entered Gaza illegally through the tunnels, they have no way of exiting. With no legal status, work or aid, the Syrians can do little but wait for a miracle to leave.
Majed al-Attar wistfully recalled his life in Damascus, where he said he had a spacious home, two cars and a warehouse full of cement and building materials. His expired passport is full of Jordanian, Egyptian and Saudi stamps he collected in his business travels.
The house and its surroundings were hit from the air "and everything was wiped out," the 49-year-old said. So, he moved with his wife and child to Egypt in 2012.
In the run-up to the 2013 military overthrow of Morsi, things quickly deteriorated, and the options were to join migrants on "the death boats" to Europe or move to Gaza, he said. The second option seemed smarter since his wife is originally Palestinian and had relatives in the Gaza border town of Rafah.
In Gaza, al-Attar was displaced again during the 2014 war, when he had to flee bombing and sleep in U.N. school shelters for several weeks. "It was a disaster for us," he said.
Now unemployed, he cannot afford to buy kindergarten clothes for his son who was born here in 2014. The boy has no official documents or citizenship, only a hospital notification that shows his name and date of birth. Most of the money he earns as a day laborer goes to the rental of a half-finished, sparsely furnished apartment. His wife managed to qualify for some UNRWA benefits, including schooling for the boy, but most benefits are out of reach because al-Attar is not Palestinian.
"I regret coming here," he said. "We just hope to get out from here next month or the month after with my wife and children to live in dignity and freedom and with a secure future for them."
As Gaza struggles to rebuild damaged homes, over 11,200 families are still displaced after the 2014 war with Israel. That has made it even harder for the Syrian families to find adequate shelter.
Amer Foura's family, originally from the southwestern Syrian city of Deraa, has found shelter in a hospital.
His wife, Kholoud, a 39-year-old mother of five, has developed muscular dystrophy and is now hooked up to a respirator at Gaza's Al-Wafa hospital. Her husband and children sleep in beds and mattresses in her hospital room.
"I have lived in Al-Wafa hospital for about a year and a half," said the husband, who is unemployed. "My only home is Al-Wafa since it's able to provide and take care of me.
The Syrians scrape by with menial jobs and occasional donations from local charities.
Hamedo, the chef, is full of nostalgia, spending time daily flipping through pictures from his life in Aleppo, where he ran a restaurant called Cafe D'alep. He pointed to a photo of a blond woman. "This was my girlfriend. She died in an airstrike," he said.
He enjoyed some initial success in Gaza, opening a restaurant that enjoyed early popularity, but ultimately went out of business because of the weak economy, constant power outages and shortages of cooking gas. He has since married a local woman and last month, they had their first child, a girl.
"We just need to get the basics secured in our stay here," he said.
In this Oct. 31, 2016 photo, Syrian refugee Majed al-Attar carries his son Esam while his wife Manal holds the hand of their son Abdel Ghani, as they walk to the UNRWA clinic in the Rafah refugee camp, Gaza. Like millions of Syrians, the al-Attar family fled the civil war in their homeland in search of safety and security, but in a decision they now regret, they chose to go to Gaza. They are among 12 Syrian households that found refuge in Gaza after the civil war erupted in 2011 and are now trapped in the war-battered territory, but also unable to travel abroad. (AP Photo/Adel Hana)
In this Oct. 31, 2016 photo, Abdel Ghani al-Attar, left, recites poetry to his classmates at a kindergarten in Rafah, Gaza. Like millions of Syrians, the al-Attar family fled the civil war in his homeland in search of safety and security, but in a decision they now regret, they chose to go to Gaza. Their family is among 12 Syrian households that found refuge in Gaza after the civil war erupted in 2011 and are now trapped in the war-battered territory, but also unable to travel abroad. (AP Photo/Adel Hana)
In this Nov. 1, 2016 photo, Syrian refugee Kholoud Foura, who has developed muscular dystrophy, poses with her husband and their children, while tied to the bed and hooked up to a respirator, at Al-Wafa hospital, in Al Zahra City, central Gaza Strip. The family have slept in beds and mattresses in her hospital room for about a year and a half. Like millions of Syrians, the Foura family fled the civil war in their homeland in search of safety and security, but in a decision they now regret, they chose to go to Gaza. They are now trapped in the war-battered territory, ineligible for most social services granted to Palestinians but also unable to travel abroad. (AP Photo/Adel Hana)
In this Oct. 31, 2016 photo, Syrian refugees, Abdel Ghani al-Attar, right, and his brother Esam, play at a kindergarten not far from their family house in Rafah, Gaza. Like millions of Syrians, the al-Attar family fled the civil war in their homeland in search of safety and security, but in a decision the family now regrets, they chose to go to Gaza. They are among 12 Syrian households that found refuge in Gaza after the civil war erupted in 2011 and are now trapped in the war-battered territory, but also unable to travel abroad. (AP Photo/Adel Hana)
In this Oct. 31, 2016 photo, Manal al-Attar, helps her son Esam, to be tested by a Palestinian doctor at the UNRWA clinic in the Rafah refugee camp, Gaza. Like millions of Syrians, the al-Attar family fled the civil war in his homeland in search of safety and security, but in a decision they now regret, they chose to go to Gaza. They are among 12 Syrian households that found refuge in Gaza after the civil war erupted in 2011 and are now trapped in the war-battered territory, but unable to travel abroad. (AP Photo/Adel Hana)
In this Nov. 1, 2016 photo, Wareef Hamedo, a Syrian refugee, holds his newborn baby, Ilya, while posing for a photo with his wife, Maha Abu Alkas, in their house in Gaza City. Like millions of Syrians, Hamedo fled the civil war in his homeland in search of safety and security, but in a decision he now regrets, he chose to go to Gaza. Hamedos family is among 12 Syrian households that found refuge in Gaza after the civil war erupted in 2011 and are now trapped in the war-battered territory, ineligible for most social services granted to Palestinians but also unable to travel abroad. (AP Photo/Adel Hana)
In this Monday, Oct. 31, 2016 photo, Majed al-Attar, a Syrian refugee, and his wife Manal wait for the doctor to treat their children, Esam and Abdel Ghani, at the UNRWA clinic in the Rafah refugee camp, Gaza. Like millions of Syrians, the al-Attar family fled the civil war in their homeland in search of safety and security, but in a decision they now regret, they chose to go to Gaza. They are among 12 Syrian households that found refuge in Gaza after the civil war erupted in 2011 and are now trapped in the war-battered territory, but also unable to travel abroad. (AP Photo/Adel Hana)
Recent developments surrounding the South China Sea
BANGKOK (AP) A look at recent developments in the South China Sea, where China is pitted against smaller neighbors in multiple disputes over islands, coral reefs and lagoons in waters crucial for global commerce and rich in fish and potential oil and gas reserves:
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EDITOR'S NOTE: This is a weekly look at the latest key developments in the South China Sea, home to several territorial conflicts that have raised tensions in the region.
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TRUMP'S ADVISER SAYS U.S. WILL CONTINUE TO KEEP CHINA IN CHECK
President-elect Donald Trump still hasn't made his foreign policy objectives clear, but his senior adviser on national security says the U.S. won't abandon its Asian allies to China's "overreach."
James Woolsey, in an opinion piece published in the South China Morning Post on Thursday, said the new administration would need to reverse defense budget cuts and make sure the U.S. was still the leading military force in the world.
"The U.S. sees itself as the holder of the balance of power in Asia and is likely to remain quite determined to protect its allies against Chinese overreach," said Woolsey, who served as CIA director under President Bill Clinton. "China should realize that our reflexes in Asia are not driven by territorial ambitions."
Over U.S. objections, Beijing has moved to cement its claim to most of the South China Sea, including by building artificial islands and military airstrips atop coral reefs. With Trump's election, many analysts said Trump's isolationist foreign policy will give China more maneuvering room to pursue its territorial claims in the East and South China seas.
During the election campaign, Trump in April said that China's building of man-made islands in the disputed waters was a sign of Beijing's disrespect for America.
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NEW PHILIPPINE ENVOY TO CHINA SAYS DEAL POSSIBLE
The new Philippine ambassador to China says it's possible to achieve a settlement with Beijing in the disputed South China Sea.
Jose Santiago "Chito" Santa Romana says his country could learn from Vietnam and the former Soviet Union, which managed to reach a detente with China through good political relations and quiet diplomacy despite quarrels over territory.
Vietnam, however, continues to be entangled in the dispute over the Paracel Islands while making progress with China over other border issues.
"The basic lesson is, if you use hardball tactics with China, expect the same. ... So when you say, 'What is ours is ours,' they will say the same thing. And if you don't yield, and if you combine it with just megaphone diplomacy and forcing your way, expect that there'll be a stalemate," he said at a forum in Manila organized by the state-run China Daily.
He said the Philippines under President Rodrigo Duterte is separating the disputes from economic relations with Beijing.
Duterte's groundbreaking visit to Beijing resulted in China allowing Filipino fishermen back in the waters around the disputed Scarborough Shoal, which China seized from the Philippines in 2012, a year before Manila launched and won an international arbitration case against China's claims.
However, China's coast guard has remained at the shoal and Filipinos are not allowed to fish inside the lagoon.
Santa Romana said that Scarborough was just an "informal, friendly understanding," and there is a need to slowly formalize it and establish rules of engagement between the coast guards of the countries.
"The Chinese, of course, still maintains their effective control because they have a sovereignty claim," he said. "But now the Philippine coast guard is trying to have a roving presence so that, eventually, we could say we have not given up our sovereignty claim when we resolve it diplomatically."
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CHINA SAYS SOUTH CHINA SEA HAS STABILIZED
China says tensions in the South China Sea have eased because of "friendly cooperation" with the Philippines and other Southeast Asian nations.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang says managing differences through negotiations is "is back on the right track," the official Xinhua News Agency reported.
Lu noted that China has border treaties with 12 out of its 14 land neighbors, and that as long as they are "sincere and patient, most differences can be handled through consultation and negotiation."
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Myanmar says 34 people killed after they attacked troops
YANGON, Myanmar (AP) Myanmar's government said Monday that 34 people were killed after they attacked government troops in Rakhine state over the weekend, but residents of the villages belonging to the Muslim Rohingya minority said the victims they saw were unarmed civilians.
The government has been conducting counterinsurgency operations since nine police were killed in attacks last month on guard posts along the border with Bangladesh generally blamed on Muslim insurgents. Tensions have been high in Rakhine since fighting in 2012 between Buddhists and Rohingya Muslims.
The government said in a statement that 28 people described as violent attackers were killed Sunday in Maungdaw district. An earlier statement said six attackers died on Saturday, in addition to two government soldiers. The attackers weren't identified, but the army has aligned with Rakhine Buddhists against the Rohingya.
A Rohingya from Kyein Chaung village contacted by phone said he saw a police truck taking at least six bodies from the village on Sunday.
Other villagers, also speaking on condition of anonymity because they feared for their safety, said the people whose bodies they saw were completely unarmed.
Nay San Lwin, a blogger based in Europe who has closely monitored Rohingya developments since 2012, said some villagers possess weapons such as swords and knives, but it was unclear whether they were used against the soldiers.
"Since the violence last month, villagers have been accused of burning their own houses. Villagers are hiding in the forest. No one dares to live in their own house because of the arrests and killing," said a teacher from Kyein Chaung village, who insisted he not be named.
Human rights groups accuse the army of abuses against the Rohingya minority, including killings, rapes and burning of homes. More than 100,000 Rohingya are still living in squalid camps for the internally displaced after being driven from their homes in 2012. Although Rohingya have lived in Myanmar for generations, they are widely regarded as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, and the government denies citizenship to most.
A local police officer refused to answer any questions related to the situation, saying he was not allowed to say anything. The Rakhine state government also refused to comment.
The central government statement said in one incident Sunday in Gwason village, "Seven violent attackers wielding with machetes ran towards the troops in order to attack. The troops returned fire, killing six."
It said soldiers and border guard police were later "attacked by about 20 violent aggressors equipped with machetes and wooden clubs while the security forces were conducting the clearance operation in Dargyizartaung village."
It said the troops fired on them and killed 19.
The earlier statement said clashes began Saturday morning when government troops were ambushed by about 60 attackers armed with guns, knives and spears. It said the troops were outnumbered in a later battle against 500 armed men, but prevailed when two air force helicopters joined the fight.
Trump win prods European diplomats to seek greater role
BRUSSELS (AP) Britain's foreign secretary says Donald Trump's U.S. presidency could be a "moment of opportunity" for Europe, even as other EU diplomats worry about Trump's isolationist, protectionist promises.
Boris Johnson spoke Monday before EU foreign ministers' talks in Brussels. The top diplomats held a special meeting Sunday night about the U.S. election, and they hope to boost Europe's role in world affairs until Trump's plans become clearer.
Johnson, who championed Britain's exit from the EU, said Trump "is a deal maker and I think that could be a good thing for Britain, but it can also a good thing for Europe. I think that's what we need to focus on today."
British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, center, speaks with Belgian Foreign Minister Didier Reynders, right, and Finnish Foreign Minister Timo Juhani Soini, left, during a meeting of EU foreign ministers at the EU Council building in Brussels on Monday, Nov. 14, 2016. EU foreign ministers meet Monday to discuss strained ties with Turkey and trans-Atlantic ties after the U.S. election results. (AP Photo/Virginia Mayo)
Other foreign ministers said Europe should focus on boosting its own defense, tensions with Turkey and war in Syria.
European Union High Representative Federica Mogherini speaks with the media as she arrives for a meeting of EU foreign ministers at the EU Council building in Brussels on Monday, Nov. 14, 2016. EU foreign ministers meet Monday to discuss strained ties with Turkey and trans-Atlantic ties. (AP Photo/Virginia Mayo)
British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson looks toward the media prior to a meeting of EU foreign ministers at the EU Council building in Brussels on Monday, Nov. 14, 2016. EU foreign ministers meet Monday to discuss strained ties with Turkey and trans-Atlantic ties after the U.S.election victory of Donald Trump. (AP Photo/Virginia Mayo)
Greeks prepare security measures ahead of Obama visit
ATHENS, Greece (AP) Greek authorities were preparing draconian security measures Monday ahead of a two-day visit by U.S. President Barack Obama, including the deployment of thousands of police, road closures and restrictions on protests.
Obama is due in Athens Tuesday morning for talks with the country's political leadership. He is scheduled to deliver a speech on Wednesday before heading to Berlin as part of his last major trip abroad.
Greek police announced a ban on public gatherings in central Athens, as well as near the city's international airport and a southern suburb where one of the city's luxury hotels is located, effective from several hours before Obama's arrival until his departure.
Police patrol outside Zappeio Conference Hall in Athens, Monday, Nov. 14, 2016. Thousands of police are to be deployed in Athens for draconian security measures during a two-day visit to Athens by President Barack Obama starting Tuesday. (AP Photo/Yorgos Karahalis)
At least 5,000 police are to be deployed, including teams with sniffer dogs, while major avenues and roads in central Athens will be closed to vehicles and at times to pedestrians. Parking restrictions were to go into effect Monday night.
Anarchist and left-wing groups are planning protest marches. A communist party-linked union slammed the ban on demonstrations "against the representative of imperialist powers" and called for mass participation in a central Athens rally planned for Tuesday evening.
"Nobody can remain apathetic before the visit of the hawk of war," the PAME union said in a statement.
An armed anarchist group has called for "attacks and clashes" to disrupt Obama's visit.
In a website posting Friday, the Conspiracy Cells of Fire group urged anarchists to "return a little of the violence we receive daily."
The group has claimed responsibility for a string of bomb attacks on judges, police and other figures of authority, causing minor injuries but no fatalities.
Extensive violent demonstrations greeted the last official visit to Greece of a sitting U.S. president, by Bill Clinton in 1999.
Many leftists in Greece regard the U.S. with misgivings, stemming mostly from America's backing of the military dictatorship that governed the country from 1967 to 1974. Obama's visit comes just days before the Nov. 17 anniversary of the junta's 1973 bloody crackdown on a student uprising. The anniversary is marked by an annual protest march to the U.S. Embassy, which frequently turns violent.
Greece's left-led coalition government, struggling to pull the country out of six years of a vicious financial crisis that has devastated its economy, has hailed Obama's visit as being of "huge importance" for both Greece and Europe.
It has expressed the hope that U.S. pressure could persuade some of its more reluctant international creditors, such as Germany, to grant significant debt relief, without which it says Greece cannot hope to recover economically. Greece has been relying on emergency loans from three consecutive multi-billion euro (dollar) international bailouts since 2010.
In a briefing note last week on the visit, Greece's press ministry said that the United States, "and particularly of President Obama," had supported Greece on several issues including "on the issue of dealing with Greek debt, as a decisive step toward a period of development and prosperity."
Rights organizations have urged Obama to use his visit to highlight Europe's response to the refugee crisis. Reluctance by many richer European countries to take in refugees has left more than 60,000 people stranded in Greece, living in often poor conditions in overcrowded camps, particularly on eastern Aegean islands.
Obama should "shine the spotlight not only on abysmal conditions for the tens of thousands of refugees stranded in Greece, but also on the failure of world leaders to adequately address the wider global refugee crisis," John Dalhuisen, Amnesty International's Europe director, said in a statement.
Human Rights Watch said Obama "should call on EU leaders to defend universal human rights and show greater responsibility for refugees."
A couple pass by a fence outside Zappeio Conferenence Hall in Athens, Monday, Nov. 14, 2016. Thousands of police are to be deployed in Athens for draconian security measures during a two-day visit to Athens by President Barack Obama starting Tuesday. (AP Photo/Yorgos Karahalis)
Witnesses: Ex-cop's initial account contradicted by video
CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) The trial of a fired white South Carolina police officer in the shooting death of a black motorist entered a third week Monday with prosecution witnesses testifying the officer's initial account of the shooting differed from dramatic cellphone video seen widely on the internet.
Michael Slager, who turned 35 on Monday, faces 30 years to life if convicted of murder in the shooting death of 50-year-old Walter Scott as Scott ran from an April 2015 traffic stop in North Charleston.
The trial is being heard by 11 white and one black juror.
Michael Slager, right, confers with his attorneys, during his trial at the Charleston County court in Charleston, S.C., Monday, Nov. 14, 2016. Slager, a white police officer is accused in the shooting death of an unarmed black motorist. (Grace Beahm/Post and Courier via AP, Pool)
Over the weekend, another predominantly white jury deadlocked in another police shooting after a traffic stop. Prosecutors will decide within the next two weeks whether to retry former University of Cincinnati police officer Ray Tensing in the July 2015 shooting 43-year-old Sam DuBose.
Levi Miles, who works as an investigator for Slager's original attorney David Aylor, testified Monday that state investigators interviewed Slager several days after the shooting. The interview took place in Aylor's office.
During that interview, Miles testified he played the part of Scott as Slager and he demonstrated for the state agents how the two men wrestled before the shooting. He demonstrated again Monday, getting on the floor of the courtroom as he re-enacted Slager's account.
Miles testified that, according to Slager, Scott got control of the officer's stun gun and pointed it at Slager. Miles testified Slager said the two men were close together at the time of the shooting.
The interview occurred before Slager had seen a cellphone video taken by a bystander that shows Scott falling to the ground dozens of feet away from Slager after being shot five times in the back. Aylor dropped his representation of Slager once the video became public and Slager was charged with murder.
Also at the initial interview in Aylor's office was Angela Peterson, an agent for the State Law Enforcement Division.
Peterson said that Slager said the two men wrestled over the Taser and Scott came at the officer with the stun gun.
She said Slager told investigators he was scared, fatigued from chasing after Scott and worried that if he was hit by the stun gun Scott would get his service pistol. Peterson said Slager described getting up off the ground, shuffling to his left and Scott starting to turn away as Slager started firing.
Ninth Circuit Solicitor Scarlett Wilson listens to Judge Clifton Newman in Charleston, S.C., on Monday, Nov. 14, 2016, as the trial of Michael Slager, a white police officer accused in the shooting death of an unarmed black motorist, enters its third week. (Grace Beahm/The Post And Courier via AP, Pool)
Turkish warplanes attack IS stronghold in northern Syria
BEIRUT (AP) Turkish warplanes on Monday struck Islamic State positions in and near the northern Syrian town of al-Bab while Ankara-backed Syrian opposition fighters inched closer to the town, one of the extremist group's largest remaining strongholds in the country, Turkish state media and Syrian activists said.
The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an activist group that tracks Syria's civil war, now in its sixth year, said the airstrikes and the shelling killed three people and wounded 30 others.
The stepped-up campaign by Turkey comes after Ankara first sent ground forces into northern Syria during the summer, vowing to clear the border area both of the Islamic State group and the U.S.-backed Syrian Kurdish forces, which it views as an extension of the Kurdish insurgency in Turkey.
FILE - In this 2004 file photo the Admiral Kuznetsov carrier seen in the Barents Sea, Russia. The Russian military says one of its the MiG-29 fighter jets based at a Russian aircraft carrier currently near Syria's shores has crashed on a training mission, but its pilot has survived. (AP Photo, File)
Since then, Turkish troops and opposition fighters allied with them have captured wide areas along the border with Turkey, cutting IS fighters off in their self-declared caliphate from the rest of the world. They have also captured dozens of towns and villages in northern Syria.
Turkey's Anadolu news agency reported 15 airstrikes against IS in al-Bab on Monday, saying they destroyed two command centers, an arms depot and two buildings used as headquarters, as well as 10 defensive positions.
Also, the Aleppo Media Center, an activist collective, said Turkey-backed opposition fighters captured three villages on Monday northwest of al-Bab and another village northeast of the town. The Observatory confirmed that four villages near al-Bab were taken, adding that the Turkey-backed fighters have captured 29 villages in the al-Bab area over the past week.
The push has helped Turkish troops and opposition fighters inch closer to al-Bab, where a long battle with the Islamic State group is expected to take place soon. IS has been in the town for more than two years.
Also Monday, Syrian government warplanes struck the last functioning hospital in the town of Atareb in northern Syria, wounding some staff members and knocking it out of service, according to the Observatory and the Local Coordination Committees, another activist group.
The Russian military, meanwhile, accused militants in Syria of having used chemical weapons against Syrian government troops in the city of Aleppo.
Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said about 30 Syrian soldiers from the elite Republican Guards were poisoned in the attack, which he said occurred in the eastern neighborhoods of Aleppo late on Sunday.
Konashenkov said Russian military officers took samples at the site of the attack, which revealed that the militants used munitions containing chlorine. He urged the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons to quickly send its experts to the site.
The OPCW and the U.N. have found that the Syrian government and the Islamic State group have both used chemical weapons in the conflict. The Syrian government has denied using chemical weapons, while its ally Russia has questioned the evidence turned up by international investigators and vowed to block sanctions on Damascus.
"Terrorists in Aleppo have increasingly often used chlorine against Syrian soldiers and civilians," Konashenkov said. "However, politicians in France, and, particularly, in Britain, who care so much about Aleppo in public, aren't seeing those crimes."
"Or, more specifically, they want to cast Syrian authorities as the culprits," Konashenkov added.
The Russian military also announced that one of its fighter jets, a MiG-29k, based on a Russian aircraft carrier near Syria's shores, has crashed on a training mission but that the pilot survived and was rescued without injuries. The plane crashed into the eastern Mediterranean on approach to landing on Sunday. The Defense Ministry said the loss would not affect the carrier's operations around Syria.
The aging vessel arrived to the eastern Mediterranean last week to augment Russia's air deployment over Syria. A punishing, year-long campaign that activists say have killed thousands of civilians and devastated civil services in opposition areas has tipped the conflict in the Syrian government's favor.
NATO has expressed concern about the Russian carrier group's deployment, saying the move could presage an increase in the number of Russian air raids in Syria, particularly around the besieged city of Aleppo
Also Monday, Iran's elite Revolutionary Guard accused the U.S. of destroying an Iranian-supplied weapon's factory in Aleppo, the semi-official ISNA news agency reported. The Revolutionary Guard's Aerospace Force acknowledged the existence of an Iranian-supplied missile facility in Syria in 2014.
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Ukraine's police chief resigns, complains of gov't pressure
MOSCOW (AP) Ukraine's police chief, who was driving reforms through the country's notoriously corrupt police force, has resigned after a year in the job, complaining of government pressure.
Khatiya Dekanoidze, who also was a deputy interior minister, told a televised news conference Monday that her official powers were "not enough for dramatic changes." Dekanoidze complained of pressure by government officials and members of parliament who "interfered" in police work.
One of the pledges of the new Ukrainian government, which took over in February 2014 after pro-Russia President Viktor Yanukovych fled the country, was to combat rampant corruption in Ukraine's police.
FILE In this Thursday, Aug. 4, 2016 file photo head of the National Police of Ukraine Khatiya Dekanoidze, centre, speaks with police officers during National Police Day in Kiev, Ukraine. Dekanoidze, who was driving reforms through the country's notoriously corrupt police force, has resigned Monday Nov. 14, 2016, after a year in the job, complaining of government pressure. (AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky, File)
Actress Woodley's pipeline protest trial is delayed 1 month
MANDAN, N.D. (AP) Trial has been delayed by a month for actress Shailene Woodley, who faces charges in North Dakota related to her protest against the Dakota Access pipeline.
The "Divergent" star was among 27 activists arrested Oct. 10. She livestreamed her arrest on Facebook. She's pleaded not guilty to criminal trespass and engaging in a riot, both misdemeanors that carry a maximum punishment of a month in jail and a $1,500 fine.
Woodley was to stand trial on Jan. 25. Court documents show trial has been rescheduled for Feb. 22 because her attorney had a conflict.
FILE - In this Oct. 10, 2016 file photo, actress Shailene Woodley is led to a transport vehicle by a Morton County Sheriff's deputy after being arrested at a protest against the Dakota Access Pipeline near St. Anthony, N.D. Woodley's trial has been delayed from Jan. 25, 2017 to Feb. 22 because her attorney had a conflict. She has pleaded not guilty to criminal trespass and engaging in a riot, both misdemeanors. (Tom Stromme/The Bismarck Tribune via AP, File)
Poland exhumes president, wife killed in 2010 plane crash
WARSAW, Poland (AP) The bodies of former Polish President Lech Kaczynski and his wife have been removed from their tomb in Krakow, the first of more than 80 exhumations planned on prominent Poles killed in a plane crash in Russia in 2010.
The exhumations that began late Monday are part of a new investigation into the crash ordered by Poland's conservative ruling party, Law and Justice, which is led by Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the late president's twin brother. Post-mortems will be carried out to determine the cause of the deaths and of the crash, identify all the remains and check for explosives, since some of Kaczynski's followers believe that a planned blast downed the aircraft, killing all 96 aboard.
Kaczynski has cast doubt on earlier investigations carried out by both Poland and Russia which concluded that the crash was an accident caused primarily by pilot error on approach to landing in dense fog. Kaczynski has for years encouraged a conspiracy theory suggesting Russia carried out an assassination with the support, or at least the consent, of the Polish prime minister at the time Donald Tusk, now the president of the European Council.
FILE =In this April 18, 2011 file picture the alabaster tomb of the late President Lech Kaczynski and his wife Maria Kaczynska who were killed, with 94 other prominent Poles, in a plane crash April 10,2010 in Smolensk, Russia. are seen in the vaults of Wawel Cathedral in Krakow, Poland, The bodies of the presidential couple are being exhumed after dark on Monday, 14 November 2016, for examination on orders from the prosecutors, who are investigating the crash. Also remains of 81 other victims will be exhumed because findings from autopsies carried out in Russia are flawed and unreliable, prosecutors say. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)
Kaczynski wants to take Tusk, his nemesis, to court and is seeking evidence against him.
"There will not be a free Poland, a truly free Poland, without the truth, without a proper honoring of those who died, without a closure of this case which has cast such a long shadow on our national and social life," Kaczynski said last Thursday.
According to the PAP news agency, the bodies of Kaczynski and his wife, Maria Kaczynska, were removed from their alabaster tomb at the Wawel Cathedral in Krakow, the resting place of many of Poland's kings and writers. Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the presidential couple's daughter, Marta Kaczynska, and experts were seen arriving at the site to attend the exhumation. Priests were to say prayers during the procedure. The media had no access to the site.
Shortly before 1 a.m. Tuesday, hearses were seen leaving the Wawel Cathedral area, PAP said. The remains were to be taken to a forensics laboratory at Krakow's renowned Jagiellonian University for a series of tests, including computer tomography and DNA tests.
Scientists will also look for the presence of explosives to check the belief held by many Kaczynski supporters that the plane, a Russian-made Tupolev Tu-154 operated by the Polish air force, disintegrated in mid-air in an intended explosion.
Prosecutors say they plan to exhume and perform similar post-mortems on a total of 83 bodies through the end of 2017. Four bodies were cremated, while nine other bodies were already exhumed in 2011 and 2012 after families protested major errors in autopsy reports carried out by the Russians right after the crash. It turned out six victims had been buried in the wrong graves.
The Russians have said the mistakes occurred due to the fragmented state of the bodies, but to many Poles they are proof of wrongdoing by the Russians, suspicions fueled by Moscow's refusal so far to return the plane's wreckage and the flight recorders to the Poles.
Law and Justice, which assumed power a year ago, says Tusk's team neglected to have each of the bodies examined, out of disregard for the late president, a political rival, and out of concern that the findings could anger Russian President Vladimir Putin something Tusk and members of his Civic Platform party deny.
The exhumations are proving controversial, with most Poles dismissive of the conspiracy theories, and some relatives aghast at the thought of their loved ones being exhumed.
"We stand alone and helpless in the face of this ruthless and cruel act," the relatives of 17 victims wrote in an open letter.
"The forceful exhumations constitute a violation of a taboo existing in our culture that calls for the respect of the bodies of the dead," said Malgorzata Rybicka, the widow of Arkadiusz Rybicki, a lawmaker with Civic Platform, in an interview with the Tygodnik Powszechny Catholic magazine. "It also shows the lighthearted approach to the feelings of the families."
However, Malgorzata Wasserman, daughter of Zbigniew Wasserman, a lawmaker who perished, called the exhumations "a procedural must" given that Poland carried out no autopsies as the stunned nation watched the dozens of coffins, draped in white-and-red national flags, arrive from Russia in 2010. The Russian autopsy report on her father described him as having the healthy liver of a young man when in fact the 60-year-old had only part of his liver left after an operation.
The tragedy occurred April 10, 2010, when the presidential delegation was traveling to honor 22,000 Polish officers who were murdered by the Soviet secret police at the start of World War II in the Katyn forest and elsewhere. The delegation included government members, lawmakers, military commanders and the relatives of officers slain in the wartime massacre. The symbolism of the mission only added to the national grief and the suspicions.
FILE - This Sunday April 11, 2010 file photo shows the wreckage of the Polish presidential plane which crashed early Saturday in Smolensk, western Russia. The bodies of former Polish President Lech Kaczynski and his wife are to be removed from their tomb in Krakow after dark on Monday Nov. 14, 2016, the first of exhumations planned on most of the 96 prominent Poles killed in a plane crash in Russia in 2010. (AP Photo/Sergey Ponomarev, File)
FILE - In this Sunday July 13, 2008 file photo, Polish President Lech Kaczynski and his wife Maria attend a formal dinner after a Mediterranean Summit meeting at the Petit Palais in Paris. The bodies of former Polish President Lech Kaczynski and his wife are to be removed from their tomb in Krakow after dark on Monday, the first of exhumations planned on most of the 96 prominent Poles killed in a plane crash in Russia in 2010. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus, File)
In this picture taken Saturday Nov. 12, 2016 the grave stones of some of the victims of the 2010 plane crash in Russia that killed Poland's President Lech Kaczynski and 95 other prominent Poles, at the Powazki Cemetery, in Warsaw, Poland. The bodies of Kaczynski and his wife Maria Kaczynska are being exhumed after dark on Monday, Nov. 14, 2016 for examination on orders from the prosecutors, who are investigating the crash. Also remains of 81 other victims will be exhumed because findings from autopsies carried out in Russia are flawed and unreliable, prosecutors say. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)
In this picture taken Saturday Nov. 12, 2016 the grave stones of some of the victims of the 2010 plane crash in Russia that killed Poland's President Lech Kaczynski and 95 other prominent Poles, at the Powazki Cemetery, in Warsaw, Poland. The bodies of Kaczynski and his wife Maria Kaczynska are being exhumed after dark on Monday, Nov. 14, 2016 for examination on orders from the prosecutors, who are investigating the crash. Also remains of 81 other victims will be exhumed because findings from autopsies carried out in Russia are flawed and unreliable, prosecutors say. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)
FILE - In this file photo taken April 16, 2011 at the Presidential Palace in Warsaw, Poland, the coffins of the late President Lech Kaczynski and his wife Maria Kaczynska who were killed, with 94 other prominent Poles, in a plane crash April 10,2010 in Smolensk, Russia are seen. The bodies of the presidential couple are being exhumed after dark on Monday, Nov. 14, 2016, for examination on orders from the prosecutors, who are investigating the crash. Also remains of 81 other victims will be exhumed because findings from autopsies carried out in Russia are flawed and unreliable, prosecutors say. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)
German foreign minister tapped to become next president
BERLIN (AP) Germany's foreign minister, who once referred to Donald Trump as a "hate preacher," was tapped Monday to become the country's next president.
Frank-Walter Steinmeier would take over the largely ceremonial role as head of state from Joachim Gauck, whose five-year term ends in February.
Chancellor Angela Merkel said her center-right Union bloc would back Steinmeier's nomination for the post, calling it an important signal "particularly in times of worldwide turmoil and instability."
FILE - In this Jan. 21, 2016 file photo German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier waves to the press as he arrives for talks with Polish Foreign Minister Witold Waszczykowski, in Warsaw, Poland. (AP Photo/Alik Keplicz, file)
Together with the votes of Steinmeier's own center-left Social Democratic Party, the 60-year-old political veteran would likely have enough support to win a vote among the 1,260 delegates who elect Germany's next president on Feb. 12.
Social Democratic Party leader Sigmar Gabriel told reporters Monday that Steinmeier had earned widespread respect and the necessary trust required to fill the post.
Steinmeier is regularly ranked among Germany's most popular politicians. While normally studiously diplomatic, Steinmeier strongly criticized U.S. President-elect Donald Trump during the American election campaign.
Asked in August about the rise of right-wing populism in Germany and elsewhere, Steinmeier slammed those who "make politics with fear." He cited the nationalist Alternative for Germany party, promoters of Britain's exit from the European Union, and "the hate preachers, like Donald Trump at the moment in the United States."
Following Trump's election, Steinmeier said the Republican's victory meant "nothing is going to get easier. A lot will get harder."
He said Germany would seek dialogue with the Trump administration, but warned that American foreign policy would likely become "less predictable."
Steinmeier first gained national attention in 1998 when he became chief of staff to Merkel's predecessor, Gerhard Schroeder. He was credited with keeping a sometimes chaotic center-left government running smoothly and seeing through a package of economic reforms and welfare-state cuts in 2003.
The reforms, launched at a time of high unemployment and economic stagnation, were credited with helping fuel growth and make the economy more resilient, but critics said they fueled social divisions.
He won widespread respect in 2010 when he took a few weeks away from politics to donate a kidney to his wife, Elke Buedenbender, a judge at a Berlin administrative court.
Steinmeier's promotion would leave a void in the foreign ministry, where he led efforts to resolve conflicts in Ukraine and Syria.
Merkel's spokesman, Steffen Seibert, declined to comment Monday on a possible replacement for Germany's top diplomat.
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Follow Frank Jordans on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/wirereporter
FILE - In this Oct. 26, 2016 file photo German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier laughs as he waits for the arrival of Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah at the foreign ministry in Berlin, Germany. (AP Photo/Michael Sohn, file)
FILE - In this July 15, 2015 file photo German Chancellor Angela Merkel, right, and German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier arrive for the weekly cabinet meeting at the Chancellery in Berlin, Germany. (AP Photo/Michael Sohn, file)
FILE - In this June 24, 2015 file photo German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier, left, and his wife Elke Buedenbender arrive for an official state dinner for Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, in front of Germany's President Joachim Gauck's residence, Bellevue Palace, in Berlin. (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber, file)
Portugal calls for exhibitions from old shipwreck in Namibia
JOHANNESBURG (AP) A Portuguese official says it's impossible to put a price on the booty of the Bom Jesus, a 16th century Portuguese ship carrying gold, silver and elephant tusks that was discovered in 2008 along the Namibian coastline.
Teresa Ribeiro, Portugal's secretary of state for foreign affairs, says the artifacts found in the remains of the shipwreck have a "unique historical value."
The Portuguese news agency Lusa quotes Ribeiro as saying during a trip to Namibia that the archaeological site is securely maintained in line with international standards. Ribeiro says she has told Namibian authorities that exhibitions from the shipwreck should be held in both Portugal and Namibia.
School district pays 11-year-old $6,500 for keynote speech
POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. (AP) A New York school district paid an 11-year-old child advocate $6,500 plus expenses for serving as keynote speaker for staff and hosting a student workshop last week.
The Poughkeepsie Journal reports (http://pojonews.co/2fy4E5l ) the Poughkeepsie City School District hired Marley Dias to speak during the superintendent's conference day last Tuesday.
The board voted 3-1 to retroactively approve Dias' consultant agreement at its Nov. 9 meeting.
The girl from West Orange, New Jersey, created the popular #1000BlackGirlBooks campaign to draw attention to the lack of racial diversity in children's literature.
She gave an hour-long speech to staff before leading an hour and a half-long workshop for 50 students.
Superintendent Nicole Williams said at Wednesday's meeting that Dias' resume is "tremendous" and the district shouldn't discriminate because she's 11 years old.
Dias was paid through funding from a federal education program.
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The number of hate crimes reported to police increased by about 6.7 per cent last year, led largely by a 67 per cent surge in crimes against Muslims, according to FBI statistics released Monday.
Civil rights groups had been raising concerns about an anti-Muslim backlash in the U.S. even before the terror attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, California, late in the year.
The reporting period covers calendar year 2015, but comes at a time of heightened tensions following last week's presidential election.
Hate crimes against Muslim increased 67 per cent last year. Above, Muslim student Mariam Nomair speaks to reporters, after being harassed for wearing a hijab at her Los Angeles high school last week
There have been reports of racist and anti-religious instances since the presidential election that have sparked outrage, including students at one school who chanted 'white power' and a videotaped assault in Chicago that showed black men beating a white man as onlookers screamed, 'You voted Trump!'
And Mariam Nomair, a 16-year-old high school student in Los Angeles, said she has been the target of racist abuse since the election of Donald Trump.
Nomair a Muslim student at El Camino High School said she had been targeted for her religion before, but that the abuse has gotten worse since Tuesday.
In one instance, a male student walked up to her as she was walking to class and tried to rip her hijab off of her head and she was called a terrorist.
In 2008, after Barack Obama was elected as the nation's first black president, there were also suspected cases of alleged hate crimes tied to the election.
In 2015, there were 257 incidents of anti-Muslim bias compared to 184 incidents the prior year. The total is second only to the surge in hate crimes following the 9/11 terror attacks in 2001.
The increase could be due, in part, to increased reporting by victims as well as better reporting and tracking by law enforcement agencies, although the number of all law enforcement agencies sending their data to the FBI decreased about three per cent between 2014 and 2015.
Overall, the number of reported hate crimes increased from 5,479 in 2014 to 5,850 last year, and religious-based hate crimes increased by 23 per cent.
Palestinian leader visits Turkmenistan for the 1st time
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan (AP) Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is visiting Turkmenistan, an energy-rich ex-Soviet Central Asian nation, for the first time.
Abbas, speaking after Monday's talks with Turkmenistan President Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov, said they discussed issues related to the Mideast peace settlement.
Abbas said the Palestinian delegation will also attend a Mideast peace conference hosted by France. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel will not attend the conference later this year, arguing that direct talks should resume between the two sides.
Turkmenistan's President Gurbanguli Berdymukhamedov, right, shakes hands with visiting Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, on Monday, Nov. 14, 2016. (AP Photo/Alexander Vershinin)
Abbas also said he has "high hopes" for prospective Mideast peace talks in Moscow, but gave no details.
Study details economic benefits of planned new Roma stadium
ROME (AP) Roma's planned new stadium would deliver nearly 20 billion euros ($21.7 billion) in additional revenues to the Italian capital over the next decade, according to a university study on the severely delayed project.
The privately financed 1.6 billion euro ($1.7 billion) project would also increase Rome's gross domestic product by 18.5 billion euros ($20 billion) by 2026, according to research by Rome's Sapienza University.
"This is one of the most ambitious urban regeneration works that Rome and Italy has ever seen," Giuseppe Ciccarone, Sapienza's dean of economics, said Monday.
However, the start of construction has been delayed for years with approval for the Serie A stadium, training center and surrounding business and entertainment park slowed at municipal and regional levels.
James Pallotta, Roma's American president, first presented the stadium plan in March 2014, saying then that it would be ready for the 2016-17 season.
The stadium site in Tor di Valle is about halfway between downtown and the Leonardo Da Vinci airport.
With a design inspired by the Colosseum, the stadium is slated to seat 52,500 and be expandable to 60,000 for major matches.
Roma currently shares the 72,000-seat Stadio Olimpico with city rival Lazio.
The 125-hectare (300-acre) area for the new stadium will also include a training ground for Roma, three high-rise office towers, plus parks and commercial and entertainment areas.
The study also said that the stadium project would reduce the average unemployment rate in Rome by nearly one full percentage point, with about 1,500 workers employed during the construction phase and a further 4,000 as parts of the project become operational.
Once fully operational, up to 20,000 people will be employed across the stadium and business park.
A social worker and her boss have been charged with manslaughter and child abuse by prosecutors who say they failed to protect a toddler who was found decomposed in a Detroit apartment.
Elaina Brown and her supervisor, Kelly Williams, were arraigned Monday on charges of involuntary manslaughter, second-degree child abuse and neglect in the death of Aaron Minor.
The three-year-old boy was found decomposed inside an apartment he shared with his mother Deanna Minor after she checked herself into a local mental institution.
While Deanna Minor faces a number of charges including murder, prosecutors said Brown and Williams failed to provide a safety plan or request police check-in, even after they identified him as vulnerable.
Elaina Brown (left) and her supervisor, Kelly Williams, (right) were arraigned Monday on charges of involuntary manslaughter, second-degree child abuse and neglect
Three-year-old Aaron Minor (pictured) was found decomposing in a bed by a maintenance worker who noticed a foul smell 11 days after his mother was hospitalized in a psychiatric unit
The boy's mother (pictured left and right, at arraignment) was charged with felony murder, second-degree murder, first and second-degree child abuse, and failure to report dead body
According to Aaron's grandmother, Deanna, 28, was hospitalized in a psychiatric unit on May 16, WXYZ reported.
Deanna was found unresponsive on a lawn outside the Madison Estates complex, and she was treated without medical personnel realizing her toddler was inside.
Aaron's body was found decomposing in a bed 11 days later by a maintenance worker who noticed a foul smell.
The Wayne County Medical Examiner's Office ruled that his death was a homicide, but autopsy and toxicology tests came back inconclusive, with no signs of trauma inside the apartment, authorities said.
Brown and Williams, who worked for Michigan's Department of Health and Human Services, were arraigned Monday and held on $25,000 personal bond.
Prosecutors allege the social workers failed to provide a safety plan, ask police to conduct a safety check or file a juvenile court petition.
Both social workers, who were ordered not to be around children during their arraignment on Monday, have been suspended with pay.
Brown had only been working with the state department for a year, while Williams has been an employee since 1995.
Deanna was arrested in August and charged with felony murder, second-degree murder, first and second-degree child abuse, and failure to report a dead body.
Deanna could face a maximum sentence of life without parole.
Deanna (pictured with Aaron) was found unresponsive on a lawn outside the Madison Estates complex, and she was treated without medical personnel realizing her toddler was inside
30,000 chickens culled in Germany after bird flu detected
BERLIN (AP) German authorities say a flock of 30,000 chickens has been destroyed in the northern state of Schleswig-Holstein after a strain of bird flu was detected in their enclosure.
The animals were killed Sunday and Monday as a precaution to try to contain the H5N8 strain of the virus, which can easily spread among birds but is not known to infect humans.
The state on Monday announced new protective measures, including ordering special protective clothes to be worn in stalls, and the complete cleaning and disinfection of all vehicles used to transport poultry.
Ahead of the Christmas season with high demand for goose, duck and chicken, farmers are concerned about the impact of an outbreak.
Israel is embarking on a major archaeological expedition to find yet undiscovered Dead Sea Scrolls, an Israeli antiquities official said Monday.
Amir Ganor of the Israel Antiquities Authority said a government research team will spend the next three years surveying hundreds of caves in the Judean Desert near the Dead Sea, the arid region where the Dead Sea Scrolls, the world's oldest biblical manuscripts, were preserved for thousands of years and discovered in 1947.
The collection is considered the crown jewel of Israeli antiquities.
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Israel is embarking on a major archaeological expedition to find yet undiscovered Dead Sea Scrolls, an Israeli antiquities official said Monday. Pictured, Roi Porat, an Israeli student of archaeology, works near remains of a cave found at the West Bank archeological site Qumran
In a move that is bound to stir controversy, the researchers may also excavate Dead Sea-area caves in the West Bank, Ganor said.
Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Mideast War, and the Palestinians want the territory to establish an independent state.
Some of the scrolls were remarkably in tact (like the War Scroll above), but others were reduced to little more than fragments. This has meant much of the text in the manuscripts still remains a mystery
Ganor discussed details of the project with The Associated Press ahead of an official announcement.
The expedition will begin in December and will be funded by the Israeli prime minister's office, Ganor said.
A spokesman for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The upcoming expedition will be the first large-scale archaeological survey of the area since Operation Scroll, an effort in 1993 to find any remaining Dead Sea Scrolls hidden in an area of the West Bank before Israel transferred partial control of the area to the Palestinian Authority.
The Dead Sea Scrolls (The Psalms Scroll pictured) have given researchers an insight into early Biblical texts and key moments in history. Some of the parchments, however, have become damaged and new techniques are revealing text that is hidden beneath blacked edges and damaged corners
THE DEAD SEA SCROLLS: THE GREATEST FIND OF THE 20TH CENTURY Discovered between between 1946 and 1956, the Dead Sea Scrolls are a collection of 972 ancient manuscripts containing parts of what is now known as the Hebrew Bible, as well as a range of extra-biblical documents. They were first found by shepherd Muhammed Edh-Dhib, as he searched for a stray among the limestone cliffs at Khirbet Qumran on the shores of the Dead Sea in what was then British Mandate Palestine - now the West Bank. The story goes that in a cave in the dark crevice of a steep rocky hillside, Muhammed hurled a stone into the dark interior and was startled to hear the sound of breaking pots. Venturing inside, the young Bedouin found a mysterious collection of large clay jars, in some of which he found old scrolls, some wrapped in linen and blackened with age. The texts are of great historical and religious significance and include the earliest known surviving copies of biblical and extra-biblical documents, as well as preserving evidence of diversity in late Second Temple Judaism. Dated to various ranges between 408BC and 318AD, they are written in Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek, and Nabataean, mostly on parchment, but with some written on papyrus and bronze. The scrolls are traditionally divided into three groups. 'Biblical' manuscripts, which are copies of texts from the Hebrew Bible comprise 40 per cent of the haul. The Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in a caves in the limestone cliffs at Khirbet Qumran (pictured) Other religious manuscripts, including known documents from the Second Temple period like the books of Enoch, Jubilees, Tobit, and Sirach, that were now included in the Bible comprise 30 per cent of the identified scrolls. The so-called 'Sectarian' manuscripts - previously unknown documents that shed light on the beliefs of Jewish groups of the time - like the Community Rule, War Scroll, Pesher on Habakkuk, and the Rule of the Blessing, make up the remaining 30 per cent. While some of the writings have survived as nearly intact scrolls, most of the archive consists of thousands of parchment and papyrus fragments. Advertisement
No scrolls were found in that undertaking.
According to Ganor, archaeologists also hope to find other antiquities dating back to as early as 5,000 years ago, as well as from the 1st-century Jewish-Roman war and the 2nd-century Bar Kochba revolt, when Jewish fighters battling the Roman army sought refuge in the desert.
Last summer, Israel carried out a three-week excavation of the so-called Cave of the Skulls in the Judean Desert, after catching a group of six Palestinian men digging illegally at the site in 2014.
A government research team will spend the next three years surveying hundreds of caves in the Judean Desert near the Dead Sea, where the Scrolls, were preserved for thousands of years and discovered in 1947. Above, Dr. Adolfo Roitman presents a part of the Isaiah Scroll
The Palestinians were believed to be digging for more Dead Sea Scrolls.
In recent years, ancient manuscripts have trickled onto the local antiquities market, and looters are believed to have plundered them from Dead Sea-area caves, prompting the government initiative.
'We know there are more,' Ganor said, speaking of undiscovered Dead Sea Scrolls. 'Most of the places haven't been reached.'
Court sidesteps issue of social media account authentication
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) The Connecticut Supreme Court on Monday sidestepped the issue of how social media accounts should be authenticated in criminal cases, in a ruling upholding a murder conviction.
The court issued a 6-0 decision in the appeal of Derrick Bouknight, who argued prosecutors didn't adequately prove a Facebook account they used as evidence was his. His appeal noted how easy it is to create fake accounts, hack into accounts and doctor photographs.
While courts in other states have issued varying opinions on how to authenticate social media accounts, Connecticut justices instead said evidence against Bouknight was overwhelming and he didn't prove the admission of the Facebook evidence had a substantial effect on the jury's verdict.
Bouknight, 27, is serving a 70-year prison sentence for fatally shooting a man in New Haven in October 2010. A judge allowed into evidence photos from a Facebook account that police said was Bouknight's. The photos showed Bouknight wearing a baseball cap and a glove that were similar to a cap and glove witnesses said the killer was wearing when he shot William Baines in a dispute over a $100 debt.
Bouknight's lawyer, Richard Condon Jr., said the trial court judge never found that Bouknight created or maintained the Facebook account or posted the photographs. He said the Facebook photos made Bouknight look like a "thug" and portrayed him in a negative light to jurors.
The court did say, however, that there was "ample" evidence including witness testimony that indicated the Facebook account was Bouknight's.
Condon said Monday that he could not immediately comment because he had yet to review the decision.
Bouknight has never said whether the Facebook page was his.
Prosecutor Timothy Costello said it was the second case in which the Supreme Court avoided deciding on standards for admitting social media evidence.
"Eventually a case will get up there where they will have to confront it," he said.
The issue has not made it to the U.S. Supreme Court.
More than 40 states have based their evidence authentication rules on the federal rules of evidence, which allow for the authentication of evidence through the testimony of witnesses and circumstantial evidence.
Some states, including Maryland, have taken a tougher approach. The Maryland Court of Appeals said in a 2011 case that social media evidence can be verified in several ways, including having profile creators testify the accounts are theirs, searching computers used to create profiles and having social media companies verify profile creators.
Iowa State president had earlier 'hard landing'
AMES, Iowa (AP) Iowa State University President Steven Leath damaged a private plane in a hard landing in 2014, 11 months before he banged up a university aircraft in remarkably similar fashion, according to documents obtained by The Associated Press.
Leath was flying in gusty conditions on Aug. 11, 2014 and "landed hard" in a crosswind, causing propeller damage that he discovered the next day, according to university records released under the open records law.
The documents show that the university didn't fully disclose information about both incidents in its application for aviation insurance earlier this year. It's not clear whether this might affect the policy, which covers millions of dollars in liability and damage for both university planes. The policy, which cost $51,000 in premiums, contains a warning that it will be voided "if you have concealed or misrepresented any material fact."
FILE - In this Sept. 14, 2012, file photo, Iowa State President Steven Leath speaks during his installation ceremony in Ames, Iowa. Documents obtained by The Associated Press under the open records law, shows Leath damaged a private plane in a hard landing in 2014, 11 months before he banged up a university aircraft in similar fashion. Leath damaged the university plane in a hard landing in July 2015 in Bloomington, Ill. (Bryon Houlgrave/The Des Moines Register via AP, File)
Despite the 2014 incident, Leath was cleared to fly solo on the university's newly purchased Cirrus SR22 single-engine plane just two months later, records show. Leath damaged that $498,000 plane in a hard landing in July 2015 in Bloomington, Illinois, while he and his wife were flying home from a North Carolina vacation. He also blamed that incident on windy conditions.
AP's revelation of that accident and other questionable trips by Leath, a private pilot, has prompted the Iowa Board of Regents to conduct an audit of university flights. Authorities are awaiting the audit's conclusions before determining whether to open a criminal investigation of Leath, who paid back $17,500 for accident costs and vowed to stop flying himself. Leath has expressed regret but denied violating policies or a law barring the use of state assets for private gain.
Leath's spokeswoman, Megan Landolt, declined to identify the plane Leath was flying during the August 2014 landing and where it happened. She said no school resources were involved in the incident, which came to light six months later when he listed a "hard landing with prop damage" on his pilot history in the university's 2015 insurance application.
Learning about the 2014 incident "surprised us as it was not reported to our office at the time it occurred," Deb Cramer, an insurance coordinator at the university's risk management office, wrote in a February 2015 email obtained by AP. She asked the university's insurance agent, LMC Insurance and Risk Management, whether the incident had to be disclosed on the application as an aviation loss.
An LMC representative told Cramer that the incident was considered a loss and that divulging it wasn't expected to "have a negative impact on the renewal" of the university's policy with State National Insurance. When Leath got into the 2015 accident, the school didn't file an insurance claim and paid the $14,000 bill to repair the plane's wings itself, calling it a business decision to avoid a premium hike.
After that insurance policy expired in February, the university switched its carrier to Catlin Insurance. Leath and the university were less forthcoming on their 2016 application than they were a year earlier, although it's not clear whether that led to lower rates or better coverage.
The pilot history form signed by Leath asked him to disclose details of all prior accidents and incidents as a pilot, including dates, and warned that concealing material information was "a fraudulent insurance act" subject to criminal and civil penalties.
He listed the 2015 landing in Illinois, noting that it triggered a Federal Aviation Administration test ride that he passed. But he left off the 2014 incident. The university also attested in the application that it had no "aviation losses" during the last three years, even though the 2015 accident would have qualified and it had divulged the 2014 landing as a loss the previous year.
Landolt said Leath didn't need to disclose the 2014 incident to the university's aviation insurance broker, Nasom Associates, since he had done so in the prior year's application.
Catlin spokeswoman Christine Weirsky said details of client policies are confidential. "As far as what impact non-disclosure would have, we can't comment on that. It's an aspect of their coverage," she said.
Scott Williams, an aviation attorney who is not affiliated with the school, Leath or Catlin Insurance, said it's always best to over-disclose. But he said he doubted Catlin would have a solid legal reason for denying coverage, though it might try in the event of a claim.
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Follow Ryan J. Foley on Twitter at https://twitter.com/rjfoley
Ukrainian lawmaker punches colleague at parliament meeting
MOSCOW (AP) A Ukrainian lawmaker has punched his colleague in the face, the latest brawl in the nation's raucous parliament.
Opposition Bloc head Yuri Boiko first listened calmly as Radical Party head Oleh Lyashko was denouncing him as a Kremlin agent in Ukraine during Monday's meeting of parliamentary leaders. Suddenly, he jumped to his feet, grabbed Lyashko by the neck and hit him in the face with his fist.
As Lyashko again took the floor, calling Boiko a "Moscow louse," Boiko hit him again.
Others pulled them apart, and Verkhovna Rada speaker Andriy Parubiy warned Boiko that he could be barred from attending parliament meetings.
Police: Woman, child lived with tigers, 'vicious' monkeys
HOUSTON (AP) A woman faces a child endangerment charge after tigers, a cougar and other exotic animals were found in the Houston-area home she shared with her 14-year-old daughter.
Trisha Meyer was arrested last week in Nevada, where she is jailed pending extradition to Texas on the child endangerment charge.
Jail records don't list an attorney to speak on Meyer's behalf.
Houston police raided Meyer's home in September after a complaint that she failed to deliver on the $3,000 sale of an exotic kitten. Officers found the tigers and cougar, plus a skunk and a fox. They said her daughter was petting some of the animals. She only had permits for the tigers.
ACLU: Don't punish Ohio student who exposed racist posts
SHAKER HEIGHTS, Ohio (AP) A civil rights organization is asking an Ohio high school to rescind discipline leveled against a student who tried to expose a schoolmate's racism by reposting the classmate's remarks.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio said Monday it had asked Shaker Heights school officials to cancel a one-day, in-school suspension Tuesday against one of two teenage girls accused of being disruptive for reposting the schoolmate's comments. The other teen served her suspension last week.
The Shaker Heights schools superintendent wrote on the district's website that the situation has been addressed but wouldn't comment further on student discipline.
The Latest: Attorney: Dad innocent in son's hot car death
BRUNSWICK, Ga. (AP) The Latest on the murder trial of a Georgia man whose toddler son died in a hot car (all times local):
5:30 p.m.
The defense attorney for a Georgia man convicted of murdering his toddler son after leaving him in a hot car says he's certain his client is "not guilty of what he's been convicted of."
A jury Monday found Justin Ross Harris guilty of malice murder and other crimes in the June 2014 death of his 22-month-old son, Cooper. Harris, who moved to Georgia from Alabama in 2012, is scheduled to be sentenced Dec. 5.
Defense attorney Maddox Kilgore told reporters Harris didn't talk about the verdict when his lawyers came to his holding cell after the verdict was read. He said Harris only talked about how much he misses his son.
Kilgore says Harris "can now begin the grieving process he's not been able to go through the last two-plus years."
Kilgore says he plans to appeal the verdict and ask for a new trial.
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4:55 p.m.
The lead prosecutor in murder trial of a Georgia man convicted of murdering his toddler son after leaving him in the back of a hot SUV says the jury was almost unanimous when their deliberations began.
Chuck Boring told reporters Monday that he spoke with some jury members after the verdict and was told they were almost unanimous when they began deliberations, but wanted to take time to review the evidence.
A jury on Monday convicted Justin Ross Harris of both malice and felony murder, among other charges, in the 2014 death of his 22-month old son, Cooper.
Harris, who moved to Georgia from Alabama in 2012, will be sentenced on Dec. 5.
"It wasn't one thing that they said, 'This proves malice,' " Boring said. "It was everything."
Jurors seen leaving the courthouse declined to speak with reporters.
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4:25 p.m.
The Cobb County district attorney says the conviction of a Georgia man who left his son in a hot SUV to die is not a reason to celebrate.
Vic Reynolds said in a statement Monday, "Today is not a victory, nor is it a day we celebrate. In fact, today is a monumentally sad day."
A jury on Monday convicted Justin Ross Harris of both malice and felony murder, among other charges, in the 2014 death of his 22-month old son, Cooper.
Harris, who moved to Georgia from Alabama in 2012, will be sentenced on Dec. 5.
Lawrence Zimmerman, an attorney for Ross' ex-wife, says he was disappointed by the verdict but that Harris has a strong appeal, adding that the case had no winners.
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3:55 p.m.
A Georgia father convicted of murdering his toddler son showed little emotion as the verdict was read.
A jury on Monday convicted Justin Ross Harris of both malice and felony murder, among other charges, in the 2014 death of his 22-month old son, Cooper.
Harris, who moved to Georgia from Alabama in 2012, will be sentenced on Dec. 5.
Harris was also found guilty of child cruelty and of sending sexual text messages to a teenage girl and asking for nude photos of her pubic area.
Malice murder carries a prison term of life with or without parole.
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3:15 p.m.
A Georgia father has been found guilty of murder in the 2014 death of his toddler son who perished after being left in a hot car.
A jury reached its verdict Monday in the trial of Justin Ross Harris. The former Home Depot web developer's 22-month-old son, Cooper, died after Harris left the boy in his SUV while he was at work June 18, 2014.
Harris was charged with malice murder after investigators concluded he left his child to die on purpose. They also charged him with felony murder, which does not require proof of intent to kill. He was found guilty of both murder charges.
Defense attorneys said the boy's death was a tragic accident.
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9:30 a.m.
A jury has resumed deliberations in the murder trial of a Georgia man whose toddler son died after being left for hours in the back seat of a hot car.
Jurors returned Monday morning to the courthouse in coastal Brunswick to begin their fourth day of deliberations in the case of Justin Ross Harris. He is charged with malice murder and other crimes in the June 2014 death of his 22-month-old son, Cooper.
Prosecutors say Harris intentionally killed his son to escape from family responsibilities while he sought sexual affairs outside his marriage. Defense attorneys say Harris, who moved to Georgia from Alabama in 2012, loved his son and the boy's death was a tragic accident.
The jury deliberated Tuesday through Thursday last week without reaching a verdict.
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2:45 a.m.
Jury deliberations are entering their fourth day in the trial of a Georgia man charged with murder after his toddler son died in a hot car.
Jurors are scheduled to resume weighing evidence Monday morning in the case against Justin Ross Harris. The metro Atlanta web developer is charged with malice murder and other crimes in the June 2014 death of his 22-month-old son, Cooper.
Prosecutors used the month-long trial to make a case that Harris intentionally killed his son to escape from family responsibilities while he sought sexual affairs outside his marriage. Defense attorneys say Harris, who moved to Georgia from Alabama in 2012, loved his son and the boy's death was a tragic accident.
Poland signs deal to buy 2 US-made Gulfstream VIP planes
WARSAW, Poland (AP) Poland has signed a 440.5 million-zloty ($108 million) deal to purchase two small U.S.-made Gulfstream G550 planes to fly government members and other top politicians on foreign visits.
New planes for the government have been a pressing need for some 20 years, as Soviet-made planes were phased out due to age. One of the two remaining Tu-154 aircraft crashed in 2010, killing President Lech Kaczynski and 95 others. Two chartered Embraer planes are in use now.
Poland's Defense Ministry on Monday signed a deal with Savannah, Georgia-based Gulfstream Aerospace for the delivery of two 16-seat planes by mid-August 2017. They are capable of flying nonstop across the Atlantic, as was Poland's requirement.
A bid by French company Dassault Aviation was rejected.
For Kenneth Lonergan, an ambivalent moment in the sun
NEW YORK (AP) The filmmaker and playwright Kenneth Lonergan, a self-described "ultra-naturalist" whose eloquently empathic stories tremble with the richness of daily life, began his writing career, surprisingly, awash in science fiction.
He was (and still is) a die-hard Trekkie. He has seen "2001: A Space Odyssey" more than 50 times, he estimates. One of his early plays (unproduced so far) is about two spacemen spinning through the universe for years after their ship was disintegrated. Lonergan would lead Matthew Broderick, his best friend since high-school, from their Upper West Side neighborhood to the Ziegfeld Theatre to see "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." ''He liked to sit about two or three rows back and just get blasted by it," recalls Broderick.
Lonergan's plays and films, talky and naturalistic, employ nothing like Spielbergian grandeur. But they can nevertheless, on a purely human scale, just as surely overpower in their fullness of life, in their warm, melancholic intimacy.
This image released by Roadside Attractions and Amazon Studios shows Casey Affleck, left, with writer-director Kenneth Lonergan during the filming of "Manchester By The Sea." (Claire Folger/Roadside Attractions and Amazon Studios via AP)
"Life is full of very interesting, small details that usually get skipped over for the sake of economy," Lonergan, rumpled and genial, said in a recent interview in Soho, not far from where he lives with his wife, the actress J. Smith-Cameron and their 10-year-old daughter. "And those little details dictate all sorts of things in life. When I skip over them, there's not much left."
That sensitive eye has made Lonergan, 54, one of the most celebrated playwrights of his generation, and a figure of cultish ardor for his first two films: the luminous sibling drama "You Can Count on Me" and the ambitious New York masterwork "Margaret." The latter was embroiled for years in a law suit and disagreements with the distributor, Fox Searchlight, and received only the scantest of theatrical releases. Lonergan's favored longer edit has steadily gained in stature.
Now, cinematic redemption is at hand. Lonergan's new film, "Manchester by the Sea" (in theaters Friday), is already one of the most acclaimed movies of the year, roundly pegged as an Oscar favorite. It stars Casey Affleck as a janitor whose brother's death returns him to his Massachusetts fishing village hometown, a homecoming that resurfaces a trauma from the past. His brother's will names him guardian of a teenage son.
The film, toggling between the past and present, runs on two rails at once, leading to a heartbreaking portrait of a tragedy's long, unshakable shadow.
"I was a little chagrined to work on it because these things have happened to real people, and worse, and you sometimes wonder if you have any right to be making it into a fun story for people to compliment you on," says Lonergan with a chuckle. "Then I figured why not, it's worth talking about, it's worth trying to look at and be truthful about and respectful of."
The idea of the film was first brought to Lonergan by Matt Damon (who co-stars in "Margaret") and John Krasinski. They hoped Lonergan would write it and Damon would direct and star. Time passed and schedules got complicated, and ultimately Lonergan took up directing, too, with Damon (now a producer) handing the role to his longtime friend, Affleck. It was, to a certain extent, a lifeline out of the debilitating saga the "unrelenting difficulties," Lonergan says of "Margaret."
"I certainly saw the value in giving him a good job, but my motives were probably far more selfish than that," says Damon. "He's my favorite writer."
"Manchester by the Sea" drew raves at its Sundance Film Festival premiere, where Amazon plunked down $10 million for distribution rights. Being the toast of Hollywood would put some in the mood for celebration. Not Lonergan.
"He's a curmudgeon, as everyone says," says Broderick. "Kenny said, 'I don't know if I feel good because I improved myself and I feel better or if it's because everyone's telling me I'm great.' That definitely doesn't hurt. As we get older, you can really appreciate this is a wonderful time for him and he should enjoy it. And he should use it to make whatever he wants."
Affleck, who starred in a London production of Lonergan's "Youth in Revolt," describes Lonergan as allergic to sentimentality and artificial convention.
"He talks about the characters like they're friends of yours you've known your whole life," says Affleck. "It just seems like human beings and at the end you're sobbing and you're not sure why because people have just been fighting about whether to order pizza or not. It's a magic trick."
Lonergan, though, is less mystical about his process. When he gets stuck, he says, he tries to think pragmatically about his characters, the way an actor might. Did she have dinner yet? Would she have needed to make that phone call? Some of the scenes in "Manchester by the Sea" came out of Lonergan simply driving up and down Cape Ann to figure out how his characters would have gotten around.
"I've always just tried as hard as I could to do whatever was necessary to access whatever secrets that I didn't know about that were inside of me," says Lonergan. "You do certain steering of that. But mostly what I hope is you're like: 'That would be cool.' And you don't know why and you don't ask why."
How does he steer himself? Lonergan smiles. "I don't know. I've forgotten how."
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Follow AP Film Writer Jake Coyle on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/jakecoyleAP
HP Enterprise ordered to keep working on Rhode Island system
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) A judge has ordered Hewlett Packard Enterprise to continue working on a long-delayed project to build a new computer system for Rhode Island's Division of Motor Vehicles.
Superior Court Associate Justice Michael Silverstein on Monday issued a temporary restraining order at the state's request to block the Palo Alto, California-based company from walking off the unfinished job.
The judge notes the sharp divide between the parties over the contractual obligations, the company's threat to walk away and the harm the state would suffer.
The state sued HP Enterprise this month, saying it has paid more than $13 million for a computer system that hasn't been fully delivered. The sides met for court-ordered mediation.
UNICEF teams up with writers for children's rights
UNITED NATIONS (AP) The United Nations Children's Fund has teamed up with over 200 prominent writers from around the globe to commemorate Universal Children's Day.
U.N. spokesman Farhan Haq said Monday that novelists, playwrights and poets have contributed tiny stories of around seven lines each for the campaign ahead of UNICEF's 70th anniversary on Dec. 11.
Nigeria's Chimamanda Adichie, Brazil's Paulo Coelho and Britain's Christina Lamb were among the authors who contributed stories on the theme: "What I want from every child."
The weeklong campaign, which was conceptualized by Finnish first lady Jenni Haukio, ends on Nov. 20 the anniversary of the adoption of the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child, celebrated as Universal Children's Day.
"As writers we are able to advocate through the simplicity of storytelling. With this worthy and necessary campaign, we advocate for the protection of the rights of precious children all over the world," Adichie said in a statement.
Lamb tells the story of playing Cat's Cradle with an Afghan girl who has fled the Taliban and now lives in a camp on a Greek island "which is sunny and safe," but which she can't leave.
"I take the string between my fingertips and manage a simple back and forth and she takes it back smiling and with a skillful move fashions a string butterfly. But when she passes it again and I try to make a Jacob's Ladder, it has been too many years and the string gets tangled and she walks away a sad princess," Lamb writes in her story.
The campaign comes at a time when UNICEF says 50 million children have been uprooted from their homes due to conflict, poverty and climate change and 263 million children are out of school.
"It is shocking to see that the lives of many children are still so heavily impacted by the horror of conflict, inequality, poverty and discrimination. I hope these Tiny Stories can remind the world that we must sustain our commitment to all of these children whose lives and futures are at stake," UNICEF spokesperson Paloma Escudero said in a statement.
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Minnesota driver blames Trump for DWI arrest
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) A Minnesota motorist had a novel excuse for her drunken driving arrest: She blamed Donald Trump.
Police in the Minneapolis suburb of Lino Lakes said the 33-year-old woman rammed into two vehicles stopped at a traffic light Wednesday afternoon.
The Star Tribune reported that the woman told officers she was upset over the election and they should let her go home. Police Capt. Wayne Wegener said the woman was referencing Trump's victory the night before.
The next stage: Will anti-Trump marches become a movement?
WASHINGTON (AP) Demonstrators upset over the election of Donald Trump have marched in cities around the country over the past week, and some are making plans to be in Washington for his inauguration Jan. 20. But whether marches will become a movement is an open question.
At this early stage, the protesters who have taken to the streets to brand Trump a bigot and a sexist and chant "Not my president!" appear to be mostly venting their frustrations and do not seem to have coalesced behind overall leaders or a common set of demands.
Columbia University professor Todd Gitlin, who as an early leader of Students for a Democratic Society helped organize an anti-Vietnam War demonstration that brought thousands to Washington in 1965, said the anti-Trump protests by themselves "are not the makings of a movement."
High school students protest against the election of President-elect Donald Trump on the steps of Los Angeles City Hall Monday, Nov. 14, 2016. Students from several Los Angeles schools have walked out of classes to protest the election of Donald Trump as president. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)
"A movement requires that clusters of people take responsibility for creating vehicles that can carry through, focus energy, develop priorities, strategize, recruit, figure out how to govern themselves," Gitlin said.
For that to happen, a critical mass of protesters has to "transform their mindset from protest into successful politics, which is much less exciting," he said. Gitlin said that means "dirtying our hands in winning local and state battles which are instrumental to changing the national balance."
On Monday, hundreds of students decrying Trump's election walked out of schools in Denver, Los Angeles and Silver Spring, Maryland, after a weekend in which thousands of people demonstrated around the country and scores were arrested. Protesters threw rocks at police in Indianapolis and hurled bottles and other objects in Portland, Oregon. Marchers have also converged on Trump Tower in New York, the president-elect's transition headquarters.
Among other things, the demonstrators have condemned Trump's behavior toward women and his stand on immigration and civil liberties.
Ralph Young, a history professor at Temple University in Philadelphia who teaches a course on dissent in America and has written two books on the topic, said it is too early to predict what the marches might become.
Once Trump becomes president and starts making policy decisions, that could crystalize opposition and focus people's attention on certain issues, he said. If the anti-Trump demonstrations are going to become a movement, they also need leaders who can articulate their grievances, he said.
That's one thing the Occupy Wall Street movement against economic inequality never really achieved a proper organization, Young said.
Jamie Henn of the group 350, which organizes protests to fight climate change, said liberal activist groups are still scrambling to figure out how they will push back against a Trump presidency.
"There is definitely stuff coming together and being planned that looks like the messy process of everyone and their mother throwing up something on their Facebook page," Henn said.
Henn said liberals haven't seen the need for this level of mobilization since the run-up to the Iraq War. But activists remember glumly how little a dent their big marches against the invasion made then, and may use different tactics this time.
Some groups are already trying to come together, though there are differences of opinion, said Greg McKelvey, a protest organizer in Portland, Oregon. McKelvey said demonstrators are trying to organize with counterparts in New York; Washington; Austin, Texas; Oakland, California; Boston; and a few other cities.
Some activists want to prevent Trump somehow from becoming president, while others feel that's inevitable and instead want to insulate their communities from his policies, McKelvey said. He said his group, Portland's Resistance, aims to make sure city and state governments are working on issues such as limiting climate change, pushing for better health care and dealing with racial disparities in policing.
Trump's election has made activists out of people who haven't been part of any organized demonstrations before.
Olivia Antezana, a 19-year-old sophomore at the University of Maryland at College Park, had never been to a demonstration before creating and promoting a "Not My President" event on Facebook. By Monday afternoon, 18,000 people had indicated on Facebook that they would be going to the event in Washington on Inauguration Day.
"I will say I certainly underestimated it," Antezana said.
Still, Antezana said she is not sure what she will do after the demonstration she is planning is over. She doesn't plan to join a political campaign, she said, though she would like to keep up with activism. Right now, she said, she has another priority: school.
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Associated Press writers Sarah Brumfield in Washington; Nicholas Riccardi in Denver; and Andrew Selsky in Portland, Oregon, contributed to this report.
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Follow Jessica Gresko on Twitter at https://twitter.com/jessicagresko.
Protesters walk a street during an anti-Trump protest downtown Santa Ana, Calif., Sunday, Nov. 13, 2016. The sign, center, reads, "We refuse to accept a fascist United States." (Ana Venegas/The Orange County Register via AP)
High school students protest against the election of President-elect Donald Trump on the steps of Los Angeles City Hall Monday, Nov. 14, 2016. Students from several Los Angeles schools have walked out of classes to protest the election of Donald Trump as president. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)
In complete reversal, Obama refuses to criticize Trump
WASHINGTON (AP) President Barack Obama on Monday abandoned his dire warnings and dark predictions about his newly elected successor and urged Americans to give President-elect Donald Trump time to rise to the daunting responsibilities of the office, breaking sharply from his Democratic allies who have quickly condemned Trump's first major decisions.
In his first extended remarks on the election that pounded his party and his legacy, Obama sought to reassure an anxious world and nation about his successor's commitments to alliances, at times appearing almost sanguine about a future Trump administration.
Although he would not explicitly say Trump was qualified for the office, he said he believed the first-time officeholder would do his best to unite the nation, calling him pragmatic. He refused to wade into a political firestorm over Trump's decision to name a far-right conservative media mogul as a top adviser. And he expressed hope that the weight of the presidency will force Trump to overcome his shortcomings.
President Barack Obama speaks during a news conference in the Brady press briefing room at the White House in Washington, Monday, Nov. 14, 2016. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
"He has won. He's going to be the next president and regardless of what experience or assumptions he brought to the office, this office has a way of waking you up," Obama said. "And some of his gifts that obviously allowed him to execute one of the biggest political upsets in history, those are ones that hopefully he will put to good use on behalf of all the American people."
Obama's refusal to criticize his successor was a 180-degree reversal from the rhetoric of his campaign takedowns. Only a week ago, as he campaigned for Hillary Clinton, Obama said Trump was "woefully unprepared for the job" and couldn't "handle the nuclear codes."
Obama's latest remarks bore little resemblance to the calls for resistance coming from other Democrats and many of Obama's supporters. As they come to grips with Trump's surprising win, many Democrats have seized on a call not to accept or "normalize" the actions of a man who ran a divisive campaign that included charges of racism, sexism and other offensive rhetoric and actions.
But Obama, who was the target of some of that rhetoric, has embraced the role of national hand-holder. Both in private and in a brief statement last week, Obama has suggested that Democrats should buck up and move on. He's cast Trump's election as in line with the usual zig and zag of politics.
On Monday, as he prepared to embark on a three-nation trip abroad, Obama went so far as to vouch for Trump and his foreign policies. Although Trump campaigned as a harsh critic of NATO, Obama said Trump sounded a different note when they met in the Oval Office last week.
Obama said the Republican "expressed a great interest in maintaining our core strategic relationships," including "strong and robust NATO" partnerships.
"There is enormous continuity ... that makes us that indispensable nation when it comes to maintaining order around the world," Obama said. Relationships and policies go beyond presidents, he said, adding that military officials, diplomats and intelligence officers would cooperate with their foreign counterparts as before.
Obama acknowledged he had offered advice to Trump, saying he emphasized the need to shift from campaigning to governing, and the importance of resetting the tone after a contentious election.
"I don't think he is ideological," Obama said. "And that can serve him well as long as he has got good people around him and he has a clear sense of direction."
Obama suggested he would continue to offer his advice. He said he would urge Trump "to think long and hard" before making good on his promise to upend Obama's program that deferred deportation for hundreds of thousands of young immigrants who came to the country illegally as children.
Asked about one of Trump's most contentious moves since his triumph, appointing Steve Bannon as chief strategist and senior adviser, Obama said it was up to the president-elect to appoint a team.
"It's important for us to let him make his decisions," Obama said of the choice of Bannon, a man celebrated as a force for the far right. But adding a hint of worry, Obama said he counseled Trump: "It's really important to send some signals of unity."
Whereas Obama hailed Trump's "impressive" ability to speak to voters, he also delivered a subtle critique of Clinton's campaign. He said Democrats must broaden their focus beyond just swing states after an election that left the Senate and House in Republican hands, as well as most of the nation's governor's mansions. He rejected the idea that demographic advantages would lead to all-but-assured victories for the party, saying it must rebuild at the local, state and national levels.
"We're going to have to compete everywhere," he said, reflecting on his own 2008 win in Iowa, a state that went for Trump this time. "We're going to have to show up everywhere."
Clinton kept a relatively light campaign schedule until the final weeks of her campaign, mostly attending smaller events in battleground states. Her campaign focused heavily on motivating the Democratic base of female and minority voters, rather than swaying independents. "Good ideas don't matter if people don't hear them," Obama said.
While Obama is in Germany, Greece and Peru, he said his team would accelerate efforts to ensure a smooth transition to the Trump administration.
He stressed that he would try to strengthen the American economy over his final two months, and all but acknowledged he would not take any dramatic action to close the prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, in his final weeks in office.
"One of the things you discover about being president is that there are all these rules and norms and laws and you got to pay attention to them. And the people who work for you are also subject to those rules and norms, and that's a piece of advice that I gave to the incoming president," he said.
President Barack Obama smiles during a news conference in the Brady press briefing room at the White House in Washington, Monday, Nov. 14, 2016. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)
A timeline of events in the Brendan Dassey case
MILWAUKEE (AP) A judge has ordered the release of Brendan Dassey in a case profiled in the Netflix series "Making a Murderer." The judge's decision came after he overturned Dassey's conviction in August. U.S. Magistrate Judge William Duffin says Dassey should be allowed to go free while prosecutors appeal his August decision. It wasn't clear how quickly Dassey would be released. Here are some key events in the case:
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Oct. 31, 2005: Teresa Halbach, 25, of St. John in Calumet County, a photographer for Auto Trader Magazine, goes to Avery's Auto Salvage near Mishicot to photograph a minivan for sale by Steven Avery's sister. Evidence later shows Avery called asking for her to come, using his sister's name.
FILE - In this March 3, 2006 file photo, Brendan Dassey, is escorted out of a Manitowoc County Circuit courtroom in Manitowoc, Wis. Dassey, whose homicide conviction was overturned in a case profiled in the Netflix series "Making a Murderer" was ordered released Monday, Nov. 14, 2016, from federal prison while prosecutors appeal. Dassey's supervised release was not immediate and is contingent upon him meeting multiple conditions. (AP Photo/Morry Gash, File)
Nov. 3, 2005: Halbach's family reports her missing.
Nov. 5, 2005: Halbach's cousins find her vehicle under brush and auto parts in the Avery salvage yard. Charred bone fragments found in a burn pit later are determined to be her remains.
Nov. 8, 2005: Avery tells reporters he fears authorities are trying to frame him for Halbach's slaying because he sued Manitowoc County officials for $36 million for wrongful conviction. Avery spent 18 years in prison for rape before DNA evidence cleared him of the crime and he was freed in 2003.
Nov. 9, 2005: Avery is arrested and, based on past convictions for burglary and other crimes, charged with possessing firearms as a felon. Authorities say two guns were in his trailer home.
Nov. 15, 2005: Avery is charged with first-degree intentional homicide and mutilating a corpse.
Feb. 14, 2006: Authorities announce Avery has settled his lawsuit against Manitowoc County officials for $400,000.
March 2, 2006: Avery's nephew Brendan Dassey, then 16, is charged in adult court with being a party to first-degree intentional homicide, mutilation of a corpse and first-degree sexual assault. Prosecutors base the charges on a videotaped statement in which Dassey detailed the killing, saying he and Avery raped and killed Halbach and burned her body. He later recants the statement.
Jan. 29, 2007: A judge dismisses sexual assault and kidnapping charges against Avery because Dassey may not testify at his trial.
Jan. 30, 2007: A judge says defense attorneys can tell jurors that Avery was wrongfully convicted of rape and may use as evidence a vial of his blood found unsecured in the Manitowoc County courthouse. Defense attorneys say discovery of the vial supports their claim that blood was planted to frame Avery.
Feb. 12, 2007: Avery's trial begins.
March 12, 2007: After the prosecution and defense rest, the judge dismisses the false-imprisonment charge, saying he doesn't think the jury has enough evidence to find Avery guilty. Avery has not taken the witness stand. Dassey also does not testify in Avery's trial.
March 18, 2007: After deliberating for nearly 22 hours over three days, jurors convict Avery, now 44, of first-degree intentional homicide and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Avery is acquitted of the charge of mutilating a corpse.
April 16, 2007: Dassey, now 17, goes on trial before a jury selected in Dane County.
April 20, 2007: Prosecutors play Dassey's videotaped confession for the jury.
April 23, 2007: Dassey testifies in his own defense, saying he lied when he gave the statement but doesn't know why. Avery does not testify.
April 25, 2007: After 4 1/2 hours of deliberation, the jury convicts Dassey of being party to first-degree intentional homicide, mutilation of a corpse and second-degree sexual assault. Sentencing is scheduled Aug. 2.
June 1, 2007: Avery is sentenced to life in prison with no possible parole.
Aug. 2, 2007: Dassey is sentenced to mandatory life in prison with a possibility of parole set for Nov. 1, 2048.
December 2015: Netflix releases the series "Making a Murderer," in which the filmmakers cast doubt on the legal process used to convict Dassey and Avery. Authorities involved in the case have called the 10-hour series biased, while the filmmakers have stood by their work.
Aug. 12, 2016: A judge throws out Dassey's conviction, ruling that investigators coerced a confession using deceptive tactics. He gives prosecutors 90 days to decide whether to retry Dassey.
Social worker, boss charged in death of Detroit 3-year-old
DETROIT (AP) Prosecutors on Monday took the rare step of charging a social worker and her boss with manslaughter and child abuse, alleging they neglected to do everything required to protect a 3-year-old Detroit boy who died.
Child Protective Services worker Elaina Brown and her supervisor, Kelly Williams, were arraigned on charges of involuntary manslaughter, second-degree child abuse and neglect in the death of Aaron Minor.
Prosecutors allege that after identifying Aaron as vulnerable, Brown and Williams failed to provide a safety plan, ask police to conduct a safety check or file a juvenile court petition on Aaron's behalf.
This undated photo provided by the Detroit Police Department shows Kelly Williams, a Child Protective Services employee, whom is one of two women charged Monday, Nov. 14, 2016, with manslaughter and child abuse in the death of a 3-year-old Detroit boy. (Detroit Police Department via AP)
Deanna Kelley, the attorney representing Kelly Williams, said Aaron's death was "unspeakable," but every tragedy isn't "the result of a crime." Kelley added she doesn't understand why prosecutors would charge people "who have dedicated their lives to helping and protecting children."
"Human nature is to want to hold someone accountable," she said. "What's so scary is to charge them with an intentional act ... when you disagree with a judgment call."
The boy's decomposing body was found in his mother's apartment in June while she was in a hospital psychiatric unit. Deanna Minor was charged in August with murder and child abuse. A competency hearing is set for Nov. 30.
Brown and Williams have been suspended with pay. Michigan Department of Health and Human Services spokesman Bob Wheaton said officials are fully cooperating with the investigation.
Wayne County prosecutors say Brown, acting on a referral from Deanna Minor's mental health worker, visited Minor and her son in April and found the food in the home to be inadequate. Brown spoke to her supervisor after the visit and sent a letter asking Minor to contact Child Protective Services, but prosecutors allege the mother didn't do so.
Authorities say Brown never saw the Minors again, and both Brown and Williams were "grossly negligent and reckless in performing their duties." Charging state social service workers, they contend, is a rare but necessary step in this case.
"We must seek to hold these defendants responsible for their alleged inaction," prosecutor Kym Worthy said in a statement. "The ultimate result in this case was the death of a child that never should have happened."
Brown and Williams are due back in court next Monday.
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Follow Jeff Karoub on Twitter at http://twitter.com/jeffkaroub . His work can be found at http://bigstory.ap.org/author/jeff-karoub .
Lin-Manuel Miranda rules out starring in opening West End run of Hamilton
The creator of hit Broadway musical Hamilton has ruled out starring in the opening run of the West End version of the show.
Lin-Manuel Miranda said casting was under way to find an actor to play American founding father Alexander Hamilton in the London production.
Miranda, who has been filming the sequel to Mary Poppins in the UK, said he was hopeful that West End theatregoers will get a "great production".
Lin-Manuel Miranda arrives at the 2016 Governors Awards (AP)
He told the Press Association: "We're starting the casting now to find an amazing European cast for Hamilton, an American musical. That is really exciting.
"I can't wait. We've got a year to get our act together."
Asked whether he planned to star in the opening run of the West End production, Miranda replied: "No, I don't think so.
"We're going to try and find the best Hamilton we can. I'll be there cheering on opening night and I'll be there for rehearsals.
"I think I'll probably just stick around after we've finished filming Mary Poppins and help get that set up."
Theatre producer Cameron Mackintosh, who is bringing Hamilton to the West End, told The Telegraph last month that Miranda will be appearing in the London run, although not necessarily at the start.
Miranda, who was speaking at the Governors Awards in Los Angeles, wrote Hamilton and starred in the lead role before leaving the Broadway show in July.
The critically-acclaimed production won 11 Tony Awards, including best musical, and received the Pulitzer Prize for drama earlier this year.
The story is based on Ron Chernow's biography of Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who was George Washington's aide and helped shape the US constitution.
Celebrity fans include President Barack Obama, Star Wars director JJ Abrams and rapper Jay Z.
Nigel Farage's easy access to Donald Trump is provoking tension among Tories as he offers himself up as a deal broker between Downing Street and the next incumbent of the White House.
After spending more than an hour with the president-elect, the interim Ukip's leader insisted Theresa May should stop running him down and instead use his closeness to the tycoon-turned-next US head of state to "put the national interest first".
"The problem is that No 10 keep on putting out press statements saying that I'm irrelevant. I would have thought that in the national interest I might just be able to broker a coming together of these parties that don't know each other at all," Mr Farage told the BBC.
Nigel Farage was the first British politician to meet Donald Trump after his election triumph (Nigel Farage/PA)
The provocative intervention came after the president-elect's invitation to Mr Farage to become the first British politician to visit him at Trump Tower in New York sparked infighting among prominent Tories.
After Downing Street insisted the outgoing Ukip chief would have "no role" in the Government's dealings with the incoming US administration, Tory peer, and former trade envoy, Lord Marland said Downing Street should use Mr Farage as a "salesman".
"Anything we can do at any level to rebuild that relationship will be to Britain's advantage, and if Mr Farage happens to be one of the people who encourages that relationship then so be it.
"Any manufacturer would use its best salesman to try and help get a market for them and if No 10 decides that that's the person, then fine," he told the BBC.
The view was in marked contrast to prominent Tory Crispin Blunt who insisted "there is no need for Nigel" in Downing Streets's dealings with the new US administration.
After pulling off the political coup of spending time with Mr Trump as he put together his new administration, Mr Farage hinted ministers are sounding him out about dealing with the president-elect as he revealed the Republican victor's close advisers have "reservations" about Theresa May's government.
Asked if he had contact with Cabinet figures regarding his close ties to the incoming president, Mr Farage told Sky News: "I am not going to go into whatever private phone calls I may, or may not, have had with individual ministers."
Mr Farage disclosed that members of the president-elect's inner circle were concerned about unflattering comments made by British Cabinet ministers, though Mr Trump told him he had a "nice" phone call with Mrs May.
"He said he had a nice conversation, although some of his team had reservations about what members of the Cabinet have said during the election. Believe you me, his team are conscious of the comments," Mr Farage told the Daily Telegraph.
The pair met at Trump Tower in New York and spent over an hour discussing the president-elect's victory, global politics and the status of Brexit, according to Ukip.
Mr Farage used US media appearances to warn Mrs May that she needed to "mend fences" with Mr Trump after the "quite rude" things said about him by leading Tories.
Smoking in cars with children: Ban sees just one fine issued in past year
Only one fine was issued in the year after a crackdown on smoking in cars with children was launched, an investigation has found.
It became illegal in England and Wales to smoke in a car or other vehicle with anyone under the age of 18 present from October 2015.
Motorists and passengers were warned they could face a 50 penalty when the new regime was unveiled.
Figures suggest enforcement has been minimal since the ban came into place in October last year
But research by the Press Association indicates that enforcement has been minimal.
In the 12 months after the law was imposed, only a single penalty was issued, according to r esponses to Freedom of Information (FOI) requests from 42 police forces in England and Wales. O ther cases were dealt with by verbal warnings.
Under the scheme, police can pass information to local authorities who can issue penalty notices and collect fines, according to the Department of Health.
The Local Government Association said it was not aware of any fines being handed out by councils over the issue.
The Police Federation, which represents rank and file officers, said it has been "really difficult" for members to enforce the law - arguing that a "piece of the jigsaw is missing" as police do not have the power to issue on-the-spot fines.
FOI requests were sent to forces asking how many fines and warnings had been issued in the year after the rule took effect.
Only Northumbria Police gave a figure other than zero for fines, reporting one case involving a driver.
Three forces - the Met Police, Dyfed Powys and Devon and Cornwall - gave figures on warnings, with two, six and three respectively.
Merseyside Police received reports of two alleged offences in moving vehicles, in Sefton and St Helens, but the drivers were not traced.
Essex Police said its stance is to deal with offences with a verbal warning, while in its response Greater Manchester Police said it was "unclear from the legislation who can issue such fines on whose behalf", adding: "As it stands an officer would be unable to summons for the said offence until all is agreed and a devised system is in place."
The new legislation, which took effect on October 1 last year, was introduced to protect children from the effects of second-hand smoke.
Simon Clark, director of the smoker's group Forest, described the law as "useless and redundant", adding: "Not only is it unenforceable, the impact on public health is almost zero.
"Even before the ban very few people smoked in cars carrying children. The overwhelming majority of smokers know it's not considerate. They don't need busybody politicians telling them how to behave."
A study looking at compliance levels found that more than eight out of 10 people knew about the new law and all those interviewed agreed it should exist.
A Department of Health spokesman said: "We have always been clear that the measure of success for this legislation will be in changes in attitude and behaviour, not the number of enforcement actions.
"It is encouraging to see that recent reports show compliance is high and the new law is popular.
"The police can use the traffic offender report to pass information to local authorities who can issue the fixed penalty notice and collect the fines.
"Information on this process has been sent to police forces who already use these for a variety of traffic related offences."
Deborah Arnott, chief executive of Action on Smoking and Health, said it is a "social law", adding that 87% of adults support the ban on smoking in cars with children "so we would expect a high level of compliance, even without a large enforcement effort".
9% of footpaths difficult or impossible to use, Ramblers warn
Almost a tenth of footpaths in England and Wales are difficult or impossible to use, according to a survey by walking organisation the Ramblers.
The results of the charity's "Big Pathwatch" found that more than half (56%) of footpaths are well-kept and signposted, but more than a third (35%) were in need of improvement.
Some 9% were difficult or impossible to use, the survey by v olunteer "citizen surveyors" found.
The Ramblers urged the public to help keep public footpaths well maintained
The volunteers walked every path in almost half the total area of England and Wales, assessing the condition of footpaths in each one kilometre square area, and recording features found on the paths.
They were also asked to rate how much they enjoyed their walks, and they uploaded more than 46,000 photos to provide evidence of the features they had reported.
More than half the features - some 59,000 - were negative, including muddy, ploughed or potholed paths, unsafe stiles, gates or bridges, heavy undergrowth, overhanging plants and trees, and particularly missing, broken or misleading signs.
But 45% of features were positive, with attractive views coming top of the list.
The Ramblers said that while local authorities were responsible for maintaining paths, rights of way were competing with other services for funding in increasingly squeezed council budgets.
There has been a 20% cut in the workforce looking after footpaths over the last five years, the Ramblers said, and everybody had a part to play in looking after them.
The charity's director of advocacy and engagement, Nicky Philpott, said: "Walking is great for our health and mental well-being. It's a cheap form of transport and exercise, and a well maintained path network could provide the solution to some of the country's biggest challenges.
"The results of the Big Pathwatch show that while many paths are well-kept, a significant number are in serious need of improvement, with many of these completely blocked or very difficult to use, resulting in people having to abandon their journey and turn back."
She said the Ramblers should be at the forefront of solving problems, working with local authorities, using findings from the Big Pathwatch and deploying the charity's volunteer path maintenance teams to help maintain "this key community asset".
Half of alcohol sold in Scotland is below impending minimum price rules
At least half of alcohol sold in Scotland does not meet the impending minimum pricing legislation, figures show.
More than two-thirds (69%) of the volume of spirits currently sold is below the 50p per unit threshold, according to analysts Nielsen, who looked at till sales data in almost 1,200 Scottish stores.
More than two-thirds of beer (67%) is also below the threshold, followed by cider (51%).
MSPs passed legislation at Holyrood in 2012 to bring in minimum pricing, which would initially be set at 50p per unit
Just 3.4% of wine sales would be impacted, Nielsen found.
Blended Scotch on average will need to rise in price by 20% to meet the threshold, while vodka will have to go up by 16.3%, according to the study.
Nielsen senior client manager Marika Pratico said: "Wine is, by far, the least impacted and so has the most to gain from minimum pricing.
"Overall, wine will need to raise prices by the least amount, thus, it becomes more affordable relative to other alcohol."
She predicted there could be an increase in cross-border alcohol shopping among the Scottish to England and Ireland, where prices would be cheaper, "mirroring what many Britons already do with the annual Calais run".
In October the Court of Session in Edinburgh ruled against a challenge led by the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), which argued that minimum unit pricing is a breach of European Law.
The SWA is considering whether to appeal the decision at the UK Supreme Court in London.
Jo Cox 'killer' shouted: This is for Britain, court told
A far-right extremist screamed "This is for Britain" when he killed MP Jo Cox in a "cowardly" attack at the height of the EU referendum campaign, a court heard.
Gardener Thomas Mair, 53, allegedly repeatedly shot and stabbed the 41-year-old Labour politician outside her constituency surgery in Birstall, near Leeds, on June 16.
Opening his Old Bailey trial, Richard Whittam QC told jurors how mother-of-two Mrs Cox had supported the Remain campaign leading up to the referendum on June 23.
Jo Cox was shot and stabbed outside her constituency surgery in June
On the afternoon of Thursday June 16 2016, she was to hold a surgery in the library in Market Street, having visited a local school and a care home.
As she arrived, Mair launched his "cowardly" gun and knife attack, Mr Whittam said.
Mrs Cox was shot three times and suffered 15 stab wounds, jurors were told.
Mair was allegedly heard by a number of witnesses to shout repeatedly "Britain First".
During the attack, a 77-year-old local man risked his own life in an effort to save hers, the court heard.
Bernard Carter-Kenny was stabbed once by Mair with the same knife that he used to stab Mrs Cox, the prosecutor said.
Emergency services arrived within minutes and she was given an emergency thoracotomy as she lay in the street, the court heard.
Mr Whittam told jurors that Mair carried out his "pre-meditated murder" for an ideological cause.
Items found at Mair's home in Lowood Lane, Birstall, showed he had "strong political and ideological interests", Mr Whittam said.
The court heard that Mair had used the computers at the same library in the weeks leading up to the killing to access websites.
In May, Mair accessed the Wikipedia page of "far right" online publication Occidental Observer which covers "politics and society from a white nationalist and anti-Semitic perspective", the court heard.
On June 13, he looked at the Twitter and Wikipedia pages for Mrs Cox, and the Wikipedia page for Conservative Ian Gow, whose killing by the IRA made him the last sitting MP to be murdered until that point, jurors were told.
He went on to view information about former foreign secretary William Hague, another Yorkshire-based Remain supporter.
Mr Whittam said Mair also looked at information on .22 gun ammunition, including answers to the question: "Is a .22 round deadly enough to kill with one shot to a human head?"
The next day, Mair looked at websites on "matricide" - the murder of your own mother - Nazi material, the death penalty in Japan, political prisoners and the human liver and spinal column.
Jurors saw CCTV footage from the library showing Mair arriving to use the computers on June 15, the eve of the attack.
The prosecution alleges that late that afternoon he researched right-wing politicians as well as the Ku Klux Klan and civil rights activists killed by its supporters.
Mr Whittam said Mair also accessed sites covering "Israel and prominent Jewish individuals", Palestine, coffins, the Waffen-SS and more information on .22 ammunition.
On the morning of the killing, Mair was seen by a neighbour leaving his home wearing a white baseball cap, green jacket and dark trousers.
Jurors were shown more CCTV footage of him making his way along the road.
Mrs Cox arrived for her surgery with her manager Fazila Aswat and senior caseworker Sandra Major at 12.50pm.
Mair launched his attack two minutes later in front of shocked passersby.
Mr Whittam described it as a "dynamic, fast-moving and shocking incident".
Shelly Morris, who was the first to call 999, reported hearing "a loud bang like a popping sound" and "a loud piercing scream", jurors were told.
She allegedly saw a man with a large steak knife with a jagged blade, which he wielded in a "stabbing motion".
The attacker stood over a figure and fired a gun twice, according to her account.
Ms Aswat saw Mair come up behind the MP and stab her, then shoot her with the gun.
He proceeded to attack Mrs Cox and Mr Carter Kenny with the knife before firing again at the politician, Mr Whittam said.
Ms Aswat hit Mair repeatedly with her handbag but was forced to retreat.
She allegedly heard the defendant shouting: "This is for Britain, Britain will always come first."
Ms Major heard him say "we're British independence" and "Keep Britain independent", jurors were told.
Mair denies Mrs Cox's murder, possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence and possession of an offensive weapon - a dagger.
Mair also pleads not guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent to Bernard Carter-Kenny on the same date.
Mair said "it's me" when he was arrested by two police officers less than a mile from the scene of Mrs Cox's murder, the court heard.
After he was cuffed he was searched and ammunition was found in a clear plastic bag. He is then said to have told the officers the knife and gun were in a black holdall he was carrying.
When one of the officers pulled the sawn-off gun from the bag, Mair turned to him and said: "I am a political activist", Mr Whittam told the jury.
The prosecutor said: "Thomas Mair clearly held views that provided him with a motive - utterly misplaced of course.
"The prosecution suggests that motive was such that he killed her because she was an MP who did not share his views."
Companies warned of 1.2bn-a-year cost of hard Brexit
A "hard Brexit" will cost UK companies an extra 1.2 billion a year, it has been estimated.
The Open Britain group, which is campaigning for Britain to keep the closest possible ties with Brussels, said that would be the cost of UK withdrawal from the EU's free trade agreements with some 50 countries.
Labour former Cabinet minister Lord Mandelson said: "A hard Brexit could lead to a 1.2 billion bombshell for British businesses.
Lord Mandelson said the EU is a leader in global free trade
"The billion-pound bill for losing access to trade deals with over 50 countries would be footed by businesses and passed on to consumers with higher prices in the shops.
"Leave campaigners talk about all the free trade deals we can sign outside the EU but do not appreciate the value of those we already have. The EU is a leader in global free trade and we should seek to preserve its benefits, as far as is possible.
Big Six energy firms 'making six times more profit than they say'
Energy firms have been accused of making more profit than they say, following an investigation into companies' finances.
Suppliers are said to be overcharging families and making six times the profit they admit to publicly, according to a probe by the Sun newspaper.
The allegations are based on a report commissioned by Energy UK, w hich represents power firms, by accountancy firm PWC.
Energy firms have been accused of making more profit than they say
The newspaper said it obtained an original copy of the report which is said to show that the cost of supplying a home with gas and electricity "falls well below" what families pay with the Big Six energy firms.
It reportedly shows costs to suppliers - such as buying gas, running call centres and power lines- amount to 844 per year to provide fuel to one household in 2016.
But the majority of families with the Big Six are on so-called standard variable tariffs - and are paying as much as 1,172 with some suppliers, the paper said.
This leaves a profit of 272 - a margin of 24% if VAT is removed, the paper worked out.
Energy UK cites on its website calculations by industry regulator Ofgem that op erating margins in 2015 were equal to around 4% of a bill.
But the paper accused Energy UK of cherry-picking parts of the report to put on their website which failed to include details of the profits.
Energy UK said it "rejects completely any implication that the report was changed to alter the perception of supplier profit".
A spokesman said: "The report used the publicly available consolidated segmental accounts of major energy suppliers which are provided to the regulator, Ofgem. These accounts show average profits of 4% and that figure appears on the Energy UK website.
"The purpose of the report is simply to help understand how the different pressures on an average bill have changed over recent years. It was not intended to present, or to hide, how much profit different firms make across their various tariffs."
It was "never intended to provide a commentary- positive or otherwise - on energy supplier margins", it added.
Business Secretary Greg Clark said he would be calling Energy UK to a meeting to discuss the findings.
"This report appears to confirm my concern that the big energy firms are punishing their customers' loyalty rather than respecting it," he said.
"Customers who are loyal to their energy supplier should be treated well, not taken for a ride, and it's high time the big companies recognised this.
Farage condemns 'petty party politics' as No 10 snubs Trump go-between offer
Nigel Farage has accused Downing Street of allowing "petty party politics" to get in the way of the national interest, after he was given the cold shoulder over his offer to act as a go-between with US President-elect Donald Trump.
Number 10 dismissed suggestions that the Ukip leader might become the "third person" in the relationship between Mr Trump and Prime Minister Theresa May, insisting that the Government already has "well-established" channels of communication.
Mr Farage scored a huge political coup in becoming the first British politician to meet Mr Trump after his election victory, and said he was ready to play a "constructive" role in fostering close UK relations with the new regime at the White House.
Nigel Farage scored a huge political coup in becoming the first British politician to meet Donald Trump after his election victory
But Mrs May's official spokeswoman p ointed out that the Prime Minister has already had a phone conversation with Mr Trump, in which he invited her to visit Washington at the earliest opportunity and voiced his hopes of striking up a relationship comparable to that between Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher.
"The president-elect talked about enjoying the same relationship Reagan and Thatcher did," said the spokeswoman. "I don't remember there being any third person in that relationship."
In response, Mr Farage told LBC radio: "It just amazes me that those ghastly little apparatchiks that work in Downing Street put out statements like this. It just goes to show they are not really interested in the country or the national interest, they are more concerned about petty party politics and trying to keep me out of everything.
"If you think of America in terms of a business and think of them as a client we want to do business with. What would you do? You would use the person who has the connections. Nobody in this administration in the UK has any connections with the Trump team at all, and yet they are prepared on behalf of the country to cut off their noses to spite their faces."
Mr Farage, who spent around an hour with the president-elect in his Trump Tower home in New York, said he had only gone to the US to meet "old friends" in the politician's team and did not expect to meet Mr Trump himself.
Conservative former defence minister Sir Gerald Howarth said it was "not sensible" to ignore Mr Farage, and the May administration should "think out of the box" about their relations with Washington.
"If Nigel Farage is well-connected with Donald Trump - as it would appear that he is - then we should certainly be talking to him," Sir Gerald told BBC Radio 4's World At One. "I am not suggesting a formal role for him but I certainly do think it is worth talking to him."
Mr Farage appeared to hint he had spoken with ministers about his contacts with Mr Trump. Asked whether any Cabinet members had sounded him out, he told LBC "Not really", though he declined to explain his comment.
Pressed over whether Mrs May saw a role for Mr Farage, the PM's official spokeswoman said: "We have established routes of engagement with the president-elect and his team. Our diplomatic staff have been building those contacts and links in the run-up to the election ... Relations between the two teams are working well."
And she brushed off suggestions that ministers could be briefed by Mr Farage on his meeting, telling reporters: "It seems to me that there are pretty widespread reports of his visit to Trump, so I'm not sure they need to speak to him - they could just read the British press."
The spokeswoman said she "did not recognise" reports that Mrs May was disappointed that the UK embassy in Washington, led by ambassador Sir Kim Darroch, had not got closer to Mr Trump's team during the election campaign.
"The Prime Minister has welcomed the work that the diplomatic team have been doing at the embassy in Washington and the engagement from our ambassador to the US and his team with the teams of both candidates in the run-up to the election," she said.
The spokeswoman went on: "This is about the relationship between the Government of the United Kingdom and the president-elect and the office of the White House as it will be once he is inaugurated in the United States. There are well-established channels for that relationship between the elected politicians, the elected leader of the US and the Prime Minister of the UK and we intend to continue with that route."
Mr Farage said that the election of Mr Trump represented a "fantastic opportunity" for the UK which could give it extra clout in Brexit negotiations under Article 50 of the EU treaties.
"He is a really devoted Anglophile," said the Ukip leader. "He loves this country and he was talking about where his mum comes from in Scotland and how beautiful the countryside is and he has investments in this country.
"I think, talking not just to him but to his team, there is no question that they want the relationship between the US and UK to be back where it should be - because Obama very much downplayed it.
"I think we have got a fantastic opportunity here, a chance to do a trade deal with the USA. And the prospect of that - I think - strengthens our negotiating hand in Brussels after Article 50 is declared, so this is really important stuff."
Mr Farage dismissed Sir Kim as an "arch-europhile" and said that Mr Trump's team had "very long memories" about disobliging comments about the president-elect made by Cabinet ministers including Mrs May and Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson during the election campaign.
"I genuinely, honestly think I could play a constructive role here," said the Ukip leader. "But if I'm not wanted, what can I do?
"I don't want anything, I'm not asking for anything. I'm just saying that actually I can help with something that I think is very, very important."
Mr Farage said he did not believe that Steve Bannon - the Breitbart News chairman who has been appointed a senior adviser to Mr Trump, is a "white supremacist", as critics have claimed. And he said that while there "may be a bit of truth" in reports of a spike in hate crimes since the election, it was being "exaggerated" by Mr Trump's opponents.
Former chancellor George Osborne backed Mrs May's position.
Asked if he would hire Mr Farage to build bridges with Mr Trump, Mr Osborne told ITV's The Agenda: "Absolutely not, I mean Theresa May is a very sensible person who is not going to do that.
"The British Prime Minister or the British Government cannot contract its foreign policy out to Nigel Farage."
Mr Osborne urged Mrs May to focus on Brexit rather than relations with Mr Trump.
"For the first time really the most important decisions over the next few years are going to be about our relationship with Europe, not about our relationship with the United States," he said.
Breaking Bad fan Stefano Brizzi found guilty of murder of Pc Gordon Semple
A Breaking Bad fan who strangled a police officer during a bondage sex session and tried to dispose of the body in an acid bath has been convicted of murder.
Stefano Brizzi, 50, admitted he was inspired by his favourite TV series as he tried to get away with killing 59-year-old Pc Gordon Semple by dissolving his flesh.
Following an Old Bailey trial, the former Morgan Stanley IT developer was found guilty of murder by a majority of 10 to two after the jury had deliberated for more than 30 hours.
CCTV of Stefano Brizzi purchasing items at the Leyland Store in Southwark Street, London
Brizzi, who gave no reaction as the jury delivered its verdict, will be sentenced on Friday, December 9.
The court heard how the defendant met his victim on gay dating app Grindr and arranged a "hot dirty sleazy session" at his flat near London's Tate Modern gallery on April 1.
According to Brizzi, Pc Semple died when a dog leash he had been wearing as part of a sex game slipped.
But a pathologist concluded that while strangulation was a possible cause of death, it would have taken minutes rather than moments, as the defendant had claimed.
In the days after the killing, crystal meth addict Brizzi was caught on CCTV buying buckets, a perforated metal sheet and cleaning products from a DIY store. He then set about dismembering the body and stripping the flesh.
Meanwhile, Pc Semple's long-term partner Gary Meeks raised the alarm and reported him missing when he failed to return to their home in Dartford, in Kent.
Neighbours complained about the stench coming from Brizzi's flat and eventually called police who came across the grisly sight of "globules" of flesh floating in the bath, bags containing bones and a part of Pc Semple's head, and pools of human fat in the oven.
Brizzi, who was wearing pink underpants and sunglasses, was arrested as officers realised the enormity of what they had found.
The court heard there was evidence in the kitchen that Brizzi had chopped up the Inverness-born officer with a variety of utensils and may have even used chopsticks to eat morsels of cooked meat.
Following his arrest, Brizzi admitted killing and trying to dissolve the body of a policeman because "Satan told me to".
During the killing, he said he had turned away a man on his doorstep who had arrived for a sex party organised on Grindr.
Brizzi said: "I was right in the middle of strangling Gordon and I said to him 'Look, this is not the right time now, people are falling ill and it's a mess'."
The Italian also told police that he had "chucked" some of Pc Semple's body into the Thames and thrown away his police badge and belongings.
A human foot was later found by a member of Thames Mudlark Club near Bermondsey Wall.
The court heard that Brizzi was addicted to crystal meth, which had cost him his job at financial giant Morgan Stanley.
He had gone to Crystal Meth Anonymous meetings, but upset people by wearing a Breaking Bad T-shirt as the show "glorified" the drug.
He told the group he believed in the Devil and liked satanic rituals and he bragged of his bondage sex encounters.
In his home, police found a mask and dog leash with Pc Semple's DNA on it as well as a copy of the Satanic Bible.
Giving evidence, Brizzi, who has HIV, told jurors of the difficulties of being a gay man brought up in a religious Italian family. The youngest of three siblings, his Tuscan father was a civil servant and his uncle was a Catholic priest.
He told jurors that Pc Semple died in a "state of erotic bliss".
his lawyer, Sallie Bennett-Jenkins QC, insisted he was no "monster" and could not have eaten Pc Semple's flesh as it was covered in chemicals.
Throughout his evidence, Brizzi wept and cried out "I'm sorry" as he was confronted with what he had done.
He had earlier admitted a charge of obstructing a coroner by disposing of the body. Pc Semple's brain and other internal organs have never been found.
Malcolm McHaffie, deputy chief crown prosecutor for CPS London, said: "Stefano Brizzi is an evil and calculating man who intentionally killed Gordon Semple and then made gruesome attempts to dispose of his body.
"He cynically lied to the court and the jury claiming that Mr Semple's tragic death was caused when a sex game went horribly wrong and that he had taken drugs which caused him to try to cover up the death. This was all fabricated by Brizzi to evade justice.
"In taking steps to fully understand Brizzi's lifestyle, we scrutinised many thousands of social media messages. Piecing together the events of that evening was equally challenging, bearing in mind the extreme lengths that Brizzi went to to remove traces of his crime and cover his tracks.
"However, built on the foundation of a strong police investigation, and detailed toxicology and pathology evidence, we put a very strong case before the court and Brizzi has now been brought to justice for his terrible crimes."
Pc Semple's family said in a statement: "Gordon was a loyal and much loved long term partner, brother, brother in law, uncle, cousin and friend to all.
"We were devastated when the news broke of Gordon's murder and the circumstances which are still incredibly hard to deal with. It is still insurmountably upsetting.
"At Gordon's funeral we met many of his friends and work colleagues - we were proud to hear how fondly they thought of Gordon.
"Gordon will be sadly missed by our family. Gordon, we miss you so much, may you rest in peace."
Chief Superintendent Peter Ayling said: "The responding officers and all those involved in the investigation into Gordon's death have been affected by it, made all the worse by knowing he was a colleague.
"Sadly, it is clear from the investigation that Gordon, a man who had dedicated the last three decades of his life to policing London, was behaving on duty in a way that no police officer should. Gordon held a position of trust, and he broke that trust.
Pledging allegiance to England over Fiji was down to money - Nathan Hughes
Nathan Hughes admits his decision to pledge national allegiance to England was motivated by the financial rewards on offer.
Fijian-born Hughes became available for the Grand Slam champions in June after qualifying on residency grounds and made his debut off the bench in Saturday's 37-21 victory over South Africa.
Members of the Fiji squad who will run out at Twickenham this weekend are paid a mere 60 a day, a sum dwarfed by the 22,000 England players receive for each international.
Nathan Hughes, centre, said his decision to play for England is to support his family
The figures involved have resulted in Hughes adopting a hard-nosed professional outlook on rugby knowing that he must provide for his family.
"I would love for Fiji to have more resources, but it is the way it is. They just have to deal with it and live on whatever they have got," Hughes said.
"There is a big difference and that is why people want to play rugby and how they survive.
"It is their bread and butter. That's the decision I made - I play my rugby to support my family and put shelter over their heads.
"Back home it has all been positive comments, everyone happy and proud of the decision I have made. Last week was exciting for me and my family."
Despite the financial basis for his decision to represent England, Hughes insists the 26 minutes he played against South Africa were not without poignancy as he celebrated a proud moment in his career.
"I feel English now. I can say I'm an English person now. It was exciting to get the nod to come off the bench and represent England, I can say it's my country now," Hughes said.
"It was huge and it was emotional. I live here in England, it is where my family is now. This is home for me.
"I will not sing both anthems, I'll only be singing the national anthem, God Save the Queen.
"It has been a long time coming but now the time is here, I've got my first cap and I'm excited to get more."
Hughes, an explosive number eight bristling with raw potential, is set to start in the back row against the nation of his birth on Saturday and realises that this guarantees special treatment at Twickenham.
"I do understand it. If you're an Islander, and I have this opportunity to play against Fiji, you know what is coming. You take it and you have got to give it back. They'll know it's coming too," he said.
Iraqi Kurds' destruction of Arab villages could be war crime -HRW
ERBIL, Iraq, Nov 13 (Reuters) - Iraqi Kurdish fighters battling Islamic State in northern Iraq unlawfully destroyed Arab homes in scores of towns and villages in what may amount to a war crime, U.S.-based rights group Human Rights Watch said on Sunday.
The Kurdish peshmerga and Iraqi armed forces have faced a common enemy in Islamic State since the militants took over large parts of Iraq in 2014. Iraqi troops and Kurdish fighters make up the 100,000-strong, U.S.-backed alliance currently battling to retake Mosul.
But animosity persists, going back to decades of mistreatment of Kurds by ruling Arabs in Baghdad, especially under Saddam Hussein. Reuters found last month that Kurds are using the battle against Islamic State to settle old disputes and grab land in ethnically mixed territory separating the Kurdish region in the north from the majority Arab south.
Human Rights Watch said in its report that violations between September 2014 and May 2016 in 21 towns and villages within disputed areas of Kirkuk and Nineveh provinces had followed "a pattern of apparently unlawful demolitions".
The areas are nominally under the jurisdiction of Baghdad but are controlled by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). The Kurdish region has taken in more than 1 million people from elsewhere in Iraq, who have been displaced by the conflict, most of them Sunni Arabs.
The KRG has denied any systematic policy of destruction of Arab homes, but said peshmerga had carried out demolitions for security reasons such as clearing booby-trapped homes.
The HRW report is based on more than a dozen field visits and interviews with over 120 witnesses and officials. Analysis of satellite images suggests property destruction targeted Arab residents long after any military necessity for such actions had ended.
"In village after village in Kirkuk and Nineveh, KRG security forces destroyed Arab homes - but not those belonging to Kurds - for no legitimate military purpose," said Joe Stork, deputy Middle East director at HRW.
The satellite imagery provides evidence of destruction in 62 other villages following their capture by Kurdish security forces, but HRW said a lack of witness accounts made it difficult to determine cause and responsibility in those instances.
Kurdish officials have stated their intention to absorb land recovered from Islamic State into their autonomous region and prevent Arab residents from returning to areas "Arabised" decades ago by Saddam Hussein.
Dindar Zebari, the head of a KRG's committee tasked with responding to international reports, said authorities had carried out a thorough investigation, examining cases in individual villages.
"There was a strategic intention for the destruction of houses or a number of these villages," Zebari told reporters in Erbil.
"(The) large presence of IEDs placed in these areas, especially in civilian properties, has been a huge cause of the destruction following the liberation process.
"Sometimes we have no choice ... before entering a village you destroy as much as you can to make sure everything is safe."
Zebari attributed much of the rest of the damage to U.S.-led coalition air strikes on IS positions or to exchanges of artillery fire during fighting.
He said militiamen allied to the peshmerga had demolished some homes in apparent revenge, but denied peshmerga participation in those cases.
Citi preparing to move 900 staff to Dublin from London -Sunday Times
LONDON, Nov 13 (Reuters) - U.S. bank Citi is preparing to move up to 900 jobs from London to Dublin as part of its contingency plans for Britain's exit from the European Union, the Sunday Times reported.
The newspaper said the bank held a board meeting in Dublin last month, and cited sources in the Irish capital as saying Citi was exploring options for office space there.
"They have been testing the Irish political and regulatory regime on a macro level," it quoted one source as saying.
Mauritanian clerics urge for blogger's death penalty to be applied
NOUAKCHOTT, Nov 13 (Reuters) - Muslim clerics in Mauritania on Sunday urged the authorities to execute a blogger who was sentenced to death in 2014 for apostasy after writing a blog post on Islam and racial discrimination.
Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ould Mkhaitir's article touched a nerve in Mauritania, a West African country with deep social and racial divisions. He was tried for apostasy and received the death penalty despite having repented and saying his article was misunderstood.
According to the U.S.-based Freedom Now rights group who provide Mkhaitir with legal counsel, the blog post appears to have been the first he published. Prior to his arrest he worked as an engineer for a mining company and was not an activist, Freedom Now said on its website.
Mauritania has not applied a death penalty since 1987 but on Sunday, the influential Forum of Imams and Ulemas on issued a fatwa, or Islamic decree, calling for Mkhaitir to be killed.
It condemned "Mkhaitir and his heresy, recalling that the legal penalty in his case is death, with no exception made for his repentance," according to a statement.
"We demand that the competent authorities apply the law: kill him and bury him in conformity with the law of God."
Rights groups like Amnesty International and Reporters without Borders have campaigned for Mkhaitir's pardon and release.
Trial to begin of man accused of murdering British lawmaker before Brexit vote
LONDON, Nov 14 (Reuters) - The trial of the man accused of murdering British lawmaker Jo Cox a week before Britain voted in June's referendum on membership of the European Union is due to begin on Monday.
Cox, a 41-year-old mother of two young children, was shot and repeatedly stabbed in the street as she arrived for an advice session with constituents in the town of Birstall, part of her electoral district in northern England.
The murder of Cox, a former aid worker who had been an ardent supporter of staying in the EU, shocked Britain and led to the suspension for several days of referendum campaigning which had been growing increasingly bitter.
Thomas Mair, 53, is charged with murder, causing grievous bodily harm to a 77-year-old man who tried to help the lawmaker, and possession of a firearm and a dagger.
At a hearing in October, he declined to respond when asked if he was guilty so the judge recorded not guilty pleas.
At the first court hearing following his arrest, Mair had said his name was "death to traitors, freedom for Britain" and the case, due to last three weeks, is being treated as a terrorism matter.
His lawyer has also previously told London's Old Bailey central criminal court where the trial is being held that medical issues would not feature in the defence argument.
Cox's murder briefly united politicians divided over the EU question in condemnation and also led to questions about the security of lawmakers in their constituencies, their home electoral districts.
How Malaysia allows child abuse to go unpunished
By A. Ananthalakshmi
KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 14 (Reuters) - Most complaints of child sexual abuse in Malaysia do not lead to successful prosecutions, largely due to weaknesses in the nation's criminal justice system, police, lawmakers and child welfare groups say.
According to classified data Malaysian police compiled and shared with Reuters, 12,987 cases of child sexual abuse were reported to police between January 2012 and July of this year. Charges were filed in 2,189 cases, resulting in just 140 convictions.
The data doesn't show how many people were involved, or what happened in the cases where there were no convictions after charges were filed. No details were disclosed in the cases where there were convictions.
Child rights advocates have long pushed the government to publicly disclose data on child sexual abuse to increase awareness so action can be taken to address what they call a growing problem.
A veil was lifted in June when a British court handed Richard Huckle 22 life sentences for abusing up to 200 babies and children, mostly in Malaysia, and sharing images of his crimes on the dark web.
The reason the Malaysian government doesn't publish child sexual abuse data is because it is protected under Malaysia's Official Secrets Act. The government provides data on child abuse only at the request of a member of parliament.
"We don't want people to misinterpret it," said Ong Chin Lan, the head of the Sexual, Women and Children Investigation Division of the Malaysian national police. The government doesn't want to unduly alarm the public about possibly high numbers of child abuse cases, she explained.
It is unclear how Malaysia's number of reported cases compares with its neighbours, some of whom are also reluctant to disclose a high incidence of child sexual abuse.
Thailand's government declined to provide data to Reuters. A senior health ministry official, who did not want to be identified, said it could "make Thailand look bad".
Cambodia, long known as a destination for travelling paedophiles, also does not disclose official data.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE WEAKNESS
Weak policing and child protection laws make it difficult to punish child abusers in Malaysia, leading to inadequate investigations and low convictions on the reported cases, according to officials and child welfare groups Reuters interviewed.
They also say a significant number of child sexual abuse cases are never reported because of taboos around child sex abuse and mistrust of authorities.
In 17 years of operation, PS the Children, Malaysia's biggest NGO dealing with child abuse, has seen zero convictions on the cases it has handled, its founder Madeleine Yong told Reuters.
"There needs to be improvement in the criminal justice system if we want to encourage more people to report, otherwise we will re-victimize the child," she said.
Ong at the sexual crimes unit said police take every case of child sexual abuse seriously and "all cases are investigated in detail".
Police blame weak laws and rules governing court evidence that give little weight to children's testimony as the reason most cases never result in charges.
Malaysia does not have a law specifically prohibiting child pornography and defines rape narrowly as penile penetration. "Grooming" - touching and befriending children as a prelude to sexual abuse - draws no legal penalties.
By contrast, Indonesia's parliament has passed legislation authorising chemical castration, minimum sentences and even execution for convicted paedophiles. Thailand introduced stricter laws against child pornography last year.
A Child Sexual Crimes bill, expected to be introduced to parliament by the end of the year, would widen the definition of sexual crimes to include online abuse, and make such crimes easier to prosecute. It would also set up a special court to deal with child sex abuse cases more quickly.
THE DARK WEB
Foreign paedophiles could be targeting Malaysia as other countries around the region strengthen child protection laws and step up enforcement, some experts said.
Snow White Smelser, programme officer at the child sex offences team in the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime's (UNODC) East Asia headquarters in Bangkok, said paedophiles compare notes and share information online about countries, where they can operate most freely.
Elena Martellozzo, a London-based criminologist who specializes in child sex abuse on the internet, said Huckle could have chosen Malaysia "because it was not on the radar, or perhaps it's where he found it easier to get work permits, visas and some work opportunities".
Typically, children are sexually abused by someone they know - a neighbour, a relative, a caregiver, or someone like Huckle, who according to court testimony groomed children in an impoverished ethnic Indian neighbourhood in Kuala Lumpur.
But increasingly, paedophile activity is moving into the online world, police say.
Australian detectives who investigate paedophiles in the region believe Malaysia has become one of Southeast Asia's biggest centres for the transmission of child pornography on the Internet.
Team Argos, the Australian detective unit that found Huckle in the dark web in late 2014, made a startling discovery from the team's scouring of online paedophile networks: the unusual number of internet addresses in the Kuala Lumpur area transmitting child sexual abuse material from the dark web.
The dark web is a vast virtual space within the Internet, which requires special encryption tools to access.
The Brisbane, Australia-based detectives found 1,000 transmissions of child pornographic materials from the Malaysian capital over a 24-hour period last year, according to Argos data provided by the UNODC.
It was the second-largest transmission location in Southeast Asia after Bangkok's 1,800 - Bangkok's population of 8.2 million is more than four times that of Kuala Lumpur's.
The Malaysian capital is a "high concern" location for the distribution of child sexual abuse materials, said Smelser at the UNODC.
Philippines police boss says U.S. guns deal on after Duterte U-turn
MANILA, Nov 14 (Reuters) - The Philippines police will push ahead with the purchase of 26,000 assault rifles from a U.S. supplier, the police chief said on Monday, following an about-face by President Rodrigo Duterte, who previously said the deal would be scrapped.
Duterte had a week ago expressed anger at "fools" and "monkeys" in Washington seeking to block the deal and said he would cancel it himself. But Duterte's police chief said he revoked that decision, apparently after Republican Donald Trump's surprise win in the U.S. presidential election.
"(The president) told me to continue the deal," Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Dela Rosa, told a news conference.
"The processing of documents are going on smoothly ... we have the blessing of the president to continue the transaction."
Dela Rosa did not say why Duterte had changed his mind, but he said there would be a new president in Washington and "he and Donald Trump are friends".
Aides to Ben Cardin, who sits on the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, last month said the State Department had been informed Cardin would oppose the deal during the prenotification process, effectively putting the brakes on it.
Cardin was reluctant for the United States to provide weapons to the police given concern about alleged human rights violations in Duterte's war on drugs, which killed 2,300 people in its first four months.
The tough-talking Duterte has been incensed by U.S. concerns about a drugs crackdown he says is needed to save his country from ruin.
He has regularly berated the Obama administration but has expressed a desire to work with Trump.
Dela Rosa said it was possible the president would scrap the guns deal if there were an intervention in Washington.
Poland - Factors to Watch Nov. 14
Following are news stories, press reports and events to watch that may affect Poland's financial markets on Monday. ALL TIMES GMT (Poland: GMT + 1 hour):
ECONOMIC DATA
The statistics office will publish October consumer price index data at 1300 GMT. Also, at the same time, the central bank will publish October M3 money supply and September current account data.
ZLOTY
The current weakening of the Polish zloty is beneficial for exporters and is not a threat to the economy as long as the currency stays within its range of the last year, Deputy Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said on Saturday.
BREXIT VOTE
Poland's Deputy Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki told Rzeczpospolita daily that British firm won't relocate their headquarters to Poland after Brexit vote, as Poland is not a part of the euro zone.
But he also said that up to several dozen thousands new jobs will be created in Poland next year by companies currently located in the UK, as they relocate their HR, IT, accounting, and risk and data management functions.
PGE, ENEA, ENEA
Poland's biggest energy firm, state-run PGE Polska Grupa Energetyczna, may bring to court its smaller, also state-run, competitor Enea, as Enea cancelled companies' contract regarding green certificates settlements, Rzeczpospolita said.
SANTANDER
Santander's Executive Chairman Ana Botin said in an article published in Rzeczpospolita that banks need more clarity regarding capital requirements in order to make sure monetary policy works efficiently.
She also said that global regulations should be more flexible and adapted to current conditions. Otherwise they may be seen as not fair.
TAXES
Polish government plans to track with satellites lorries with alcohol, petrol and cigarettes in order to improve tax collection by more than 100 billion zlotys ($24.45 billion) in 10 years, Gazeta Wyborcza daily said.
EU FUNDS
Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi suggested Italy may attempt to block EU funds for countries that are not interested in taking migrants, Gazeta Wyborcza daily said.
ROAD CONSTRUCTION
The European Commission has approved Polish road construction plans, supported by EU funds, worth about 350 million euros to facilitate better transportation on the Baltic-Adriatic Sea axis, Puls Biznesu daily reported.
ENERGY MINISTRY
Poland's energy minister Krzysztof Tchorzewski may be replaced by energy group Tauron's supervisory board member Wojciech Myslecki, as the Deputy Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki wants to have bigger influence on the energy ministry, Dziennik Gazeta Prawna daily said.
TAURON
Poland's second biggest energy firm Tauron Polska Energia is considering bond issue worth more than 800 million zlotys, its Chief Executive Officer Remigiusz Nowakowski told Dziennik Gazeta Prawna.
****Reuters has not verified stories reported by Polish media and does not vouch for their accuracy.****
PRESS DIGEST - RUSSIA - Nov 14
MOSCOW, Nov 14 (Reuters) - The following are some stories in Russia's newspapers on Monday. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.
VEDOMOSTI
www.vedomosti.ru
- The board of directors of Transaero, a Russian air carrier that went bankrupt last year, has supported a plan to set up a new airline in order to help Transaero creditors.
- Russia's state arms trader Rosoboronexport may receive new chief executive Alexander Fomin who will replace Anatoly Isaikin by the end of the year, Vedomosti cites people familiar with the matter.
- Russia's federal agency for property management considers involving possible buyers of state property into the preparation process for state firms' privatisation.
KOMMERSANT
www.kommersant.ru
- Russia's Constitutional court will review a request from Russia's ministry of justice to condemn as impossible a ruling of the European court of human rights to pay former YUKOS shareholders 1.87 billion euros. The hearing is scheduled for December 15.
ROSSIISKAYA GAZETA
- Russia's public activists found out that the state had spent about 227 billion roubles ($3.46 billion) on "dubious procurements" in the past three years.
MOSKOVSKY KOMSOMOLETS
www.mk.ru
Prosecutors question Julian Assange at Ecuador embassy in London
By Paul Sandle and Guy Faulconbridge
LONDON, Nov 14 (Reuters) - Prosecutors on Monday questioned WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange at the Ecuadorian embassy in London, where he has been holed up for four years, in an investigation into allegations that he committed rape in Sweden in 2010.
Assange, who enraged Washington by publishing a flood of secret U.S. diplomatic cables, fled to the embassy for fear that, if extradited to Sweden, he could be sent on to the United States and face a long prison term there for leaking U.S. secrets.
Swedish Chief Prosecutor Ingrid Isgren spent around four hours in the embassy, where she posed questions through an Ecuadorian prosecutor, before leaving without making comment.
Ecuador, which helped Assange avoid extradition by granting him asylum after he fled to its London legation, agreed to help Swedish prosecutors question Assange, who has denied the rape allegation.
"Today, after six years of offering his statement to the Swedish authorities, Julian Assange has finally been afforded the opportunity to do so," WikiLeaks said in a statement.
But it complained that Assange's Swedish lawyer, Per Samuelson, was not notified or summoned to attend the session, and his absence was "a clear breach of process".
A member of Assange's legal team, Melinda Taylor, said procrastination on the part of Swedish investigators had denied Assange any right to clear his name.
"As a result of six years of delays and over four and a half years of illegal and arbitrary detention, Mr Assange is today faced with (a) Hobson's choice: either he gives a statement in which his health, memory and psychological state are severely impeded, or, he is denied once more, an opportunity to be heard," she said by email.
The 45-year-old Australian has refused to go to Sweden for questioning, saying that would expose him to further extradition to the United States, where a criminal investigation into the publication of secret documents by WikiLeaks continues.
In 2010, WikiLeaks published thousands of classified U.S. military and diplomatic documents in what became one of the largest information leaks in U.S. history.
Assange made international headlines in early 2010 when WikiLeaks released classified U.S. military video showing a 2007 attack by Apache helicopters that killed a dozen people in Baghdad, including two Reuters news staff.
EMBASSY QUESTIONING
Under conditions agreed by Ecuador, Isgren and a police investigator asked questions through the Ecuadorian prosecutor, who will then report the findings to Sweden, which will then decide whether to continue the investigation.
Samuelson, Assange's Swedish lawyer, said he had been barred from the meeting. "Ecuador refuses to let me in and insists that the questioning will continue without my presence, against my client's wishes to have me there," he told Reuters.
While Assange's Ecuadorean defence lawyer appeared to be present, Samuelson said he still hoped to be admitted if the interview continued. "But a good chunk of questioning has already taken place as far as I understand," he said.
A Swedish appeals court decided in September to uphold Assange's arrest warrant, saying a strong public interest argument outweighed a case to set it aside based on the lengthy deadlock and a previous lack of impetus in pursuing the case.
Assange's request to have the warrant overturned came after a U.N. panel assessed in February that his stay at the Ecuadorean embassy amounted to arbitrary detention, and said he should be let go and be awarded compensation.
U.S. FDA rejects Dynavax's hepatitis B vaccine; shares sink
By Ankur Banerjee
Nov 14 (Reuters) - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration rejected Dynavax Technologies Corp's hepatitis B vaccine for the second time in three years, casting doubts on the drug developer's ability to bring its main drug to the market on its own.
Shares of the company, which has no drug on the market, plunged as much as 72 percent to $3.20, their lowest since late 2008.
Dynavax Chief Executive Eddie Gray said on Monday the company would meet with the FDA "as soon as possible" to discuss concerns raised by the agency in a "complete response letter".
"However, the time and resources that will be required to gain approval leads us to consider that we may not be able to advance this program on our own and we are moving swiftly to identify a potential pharmaceutical or financial partner," Gray said.
The company said the FDA, in its letter, sought information about certain "adverse events" during clinical trials, among other clarifications.
Dynavax, which had $109.6 million in cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities as of Sept. 30, had an earlier marketing application for the vaccine, Heplisav-B, rejected in February 2013.
A positive late-stage study in January paved the way for Dynavax to resubmit its application for the vaccine.
However, the FDA in September had canceled an advisory committee meeting meant to discuss Dynavax's vaccine, in order to provide the agency more time to review pending issues.
Investors interpreted the cancellation of the meeting as a sign that there were unresolved issues with Heplisav's application that could jeopardize its approval.
The FDA acknowledged in its letter that it had not yet fully reviewed Dynavax's responses to the agency's clarifications, the company said on Monday.
There was no request from the FDA for additional clinical trials and there were no apparent concerns about rare serious events, the company said.
Dynavax said it expects the review period for a possible resubmission of its application would be six months.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 850,000-2.2 million people in the United States suffer from chronic hepatitis B virus infection.
About 786,000 people worldwide die each year from hepatitis B virus-related liver disease, according to the CDC.
Dynavax reported encouraging early-stage data for its cancer immunotherapy last week. The company is also developing a treatment for asthma.
IMF's Egypt loan shows extent and risks of its Middle East role
By Andrew Torchia
CAIRO, Nov 14 (Reuters) - A $12 billion loan by the International Monetary Fund to Egypt highlights the extent of the multilateral lender's re-engagement with the Middle East and the risks of a backlash against governments carrying out painful reforms return for the aid.
From the late 1980s through the Arab Spring uprisings in 2011, the IMF was vilified in the region as an agent of Western big business pressuring countries into austerity policies that impoverished their populations while benefiting foreign bankers.
After IMF-inspired spending cuts triggered riots in Algeria, Jordan and Sudan, many governments shunned cooperation with the Fund. At least one Egyptian minister privately compared it to British imperialists who seized the Suez canal.
The loan to Egypt, approved on Friday, shows how much has changed. The IMF, touting a new, softer image, is now a key part of efforts to shore up many Middle East economies; as well as Egypt, it is providing billions of dollars of support to Iraq, Jordan, Morocco and Tunisia, and advising Algeria on reforms.
For the first time, it is also giving detailed advice on a large scale to rich oil exporters in the Gulf such as the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait, on issues including the introduction of value-added tax to boost non-oil revenues.
That is good news for investors, who are reluctant to put money into the region without the IMF's seal of approval. But it exposes the IMF and its partner governments to public anger if they fail to solve deep-rooted economic problems.
Mohsin Khan, who headed the IMF's Middle East department from 2004 to 2008, said its re-engagement with the region was tricky because while the Fund knew how to fix state finances and external deficits, it was - like economists in general - less expert at reducing inequality and creating millions of jobs.
"Governments are undertaking difficult economic reforms. If after a few years they haven't succeeded in improving living standards, people will point fingers," said Khan, now senior fellow at the Rafik Hariri Center for The Middle East at the Atlantic Council in Washington.
EGYPT
The shift towards the IMF is partly due to huge economic pressure: the turmoil of the Arab Spring slashed investment in poorer countries while the plunge of oil prices from mid-2014 squeezed the Gulf's energy exporters.
In the past, poorer countries preferred loans, aid and migrant workers' remittances from the Gulf, which attached political conditions to its aid, to money from the IMF, which demanded tough economic reforms. By hurting the Gulf's finances, cheap oil has made that model unsustainable.
But the IMF itself has also changed. It is less insistent on dogma such as freeing currency rates, and more focused on reducing poverty and inequality, said Bessma Momani, senior fellow at Canada's Centre for International Governance Innovation, who is writing a book about the Fund.
For example, last week Cairo floated its currency and hiked fuel prices - classic IMF policies. But to limit the pain for poorer citizens, it plans - with IMF acquiescence - to boost spending on a consumer subsidy scheme and keep the price of bread flat, which will slow the drive to cut its budget deficit.
"I think we've learned," Masood Ahmed, who ran the IMF's Middle East department from 2008 until last month, said of its role in the Middle East.
In the past, the IMF sometimes focused solely on macroeconomic numbers such as deficits and growth rates; it now looks more at other issues which can affect the macro picture, such as poverty, he said.
After the Arab Spring, Ahmed mounted a public relations campaign to improve the IMF's image in the region, launching an Arabic-language blog to explain its policies and meeting frequently with politicians and journalists.
Reham El Desoki, senior economist at regional investment bank Arqaam Capital, said that partly as a result of such efforts, the IMF's ties with Egypt had changed since the 1990s.
"The relationship has developed. It's more of a partnership than a carrot and stick relationship," she said.
Khan said the IMF had changed because it was shocked by the fragility of economies during the Arab Spring, as rapid growth rates evaporated and investment dried up overnight. "The Arab Spring had a humbling effect on the staff of the Fund."
So far, the IMF appears to have succeeded in avoiding the public outrage that marked many of its past forays into the region. Ordinary Egyptians are complaining about the fuel price hikes but few are blaming the Fund, and many say they understand the need for austerity.
Coming years may test that success, however. The three-year Egyptian loan may just be the start of a long-term financial burden; many economists think it will have to be renewed. Syria and Yemen will need aid when conflicts there eventually end.
Meanwhile, the IMF will be caught in the middle as governments in both oil importers and exporters cut back welfare benefits. Fuel prices are expected to rise further and new taxes to be imposed in many countries.
Syrian rebels battle each other north of Aleppo
By Tom Perry
BEIRUT, Nov 14 (Reuters) - Syrian insurgents clashed in a town near the Turkish border on Monday as inter-rebel tensions spilled over, playing to President Bashar al-Assad's advantage with the government tightening its grip on rebel-held eastern Aleppo.
The confrontation in Azaz pitted a prominent Free Syrian Army (FSA) rebel group, the Levant Front, against factions that also fight under the FSA banner and the Islamist Ahrar al-Sham, sources on both sides and a group that reports on the war said.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said headquarters and checkpoints held by the Levant Front had been seized in the fighting, which a Levant Front official said had forced the group to withdraw some fighters from a battle with Islamic State in the nearby city of al-Bab.
The fighting in Azaz, some 60 km (35 miles) north of Aleppo, also prompted Turkey, which backs a number of FSA rebel groups, to close the border crossing at Oncupinar. Adjacent to Bab al-Salam in Syria, it is a major conduit for traffic between opposition-held northern Syria and Turkey.
Rebel officials described the fighting as a blow to the opposition in the Aleppo region. Many of the insurgent groups operating in the Azaz area also have a presence in eastern Aleppo, where rebel groups had also clashed on Nov 2.
The Syrian army backed by Russian air strikes and Shi'ite militias including Lebanon's Hezbollah have been waging a fierce campaign against the insurgents in the city, before the war the country's most populous.
MAJOR WEAKNESS
Rebel infighting has been a major weakness of the anti-Assad revolt since its earliest days. Rebel factions have been divided by both ideology and local power struggles.
Jihadist groups have crushed less well-armed nationalist factions, while Islamists have also fought each other, notably in the Eastern Ghouta of Damascus this year.
Sources on opposing sides of Monday's fighting gave different accounts of events.
The Levant Front official described it as an attack on his group by rivals including the Nour al-Din al-Zinki faction, which also fights under the FSA banner but has coordinated closely with Islamist groups. He called the confrontation a potentially lethal blow to the rebellion.
A source on the other side of the conflict said groups including Ahrar al-Sham and the Zinki group had launched a campaign to "cleanse" northern Syria of groups that were guilty of acting like gangs. A statement declaring the start of the campaign identified targets including the leader of the Levant Front and the head of its security office.
Earlier this month, rebel factions clashed in eastern Aleppo itself. In that clash, the Zinki group and the allied jihadist Jabhat Fateh al-Sham tried to crush the Fastaqim faction, which is part of the FSA.
Fateh al-Sham changed its name from the Nusra Front in July and said it was breaking its formal allegiance to al Qaeda. Officials from Ahrar al-Sham did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The Syrian army and its allies have completely encircled eastern Aleppo this year, and in September launched a major campaign aimed at seizing the insurgent-held areas.
Air strikes batter two hospitals in Aleppo countryside -monitor, medic
BEIRUT, Nov 14 (Reuters) - Air strikes hit two hospitals in rebel-held territory west of the embattled Syrian city of Aleppo on Monday, and a number of patients and medics were wounded, a monitor and doctor said.
Western countries and human rights activists have accused the air forces of the Damascus government and its Russian ally of repeatedly targeting hospitals, bread lines and other civilian infrastructure in territory controlled by the rebels.
Both Moscow and Damascus have denied doing so and say their air campaign is directed against military targets belonging to the rebels, who they describe as terrorists.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, said warplanes pounded the town of Atareb overnight and into Monday, knocking the hospital out of service.
There were five air strikes on the hospital that destroyed operations and waiting rooms and damaged ambulances in what was the fourth aerial attack on the facility this year, according to the Observatory.
It was the sole hospital in Atareb and at least 60,000 people live in the town and surrounding area, it said.
The strikes injured many patients, said Osama Abo Ezz, a general surgeon and Aleppo coordinator for the Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS), which partially supports the hospital. "They were at the hospital for check-ups," he said.
Warplanes also hit and disabled Ansar hospital in Kafrnaha, 15 km (10 miles) from Atareb, marking the third air strike on that facility in the past month, the Observatory said.
There were no initial reports of deaths in either attack.
Adham Sahloul, a SAMS advocacy officer, said there have been seven attacks on hospitals in rural districts of Aleppo and Idlib provinces since Friday.
While Syrian and Russian authorities have denied any deliberate targeting of hospitals, Moscow's deputy foreign minister accused rebels recently of using civilians and "so-called hospitals" as human shields and setting up medical facilities in cities without correctly marking them.
Rebels, supported by Turkey, the U.S. and Gulf monarchies, are fighting to oust President Bashar al-Assad, whose military, backed by Russia's air force, has used jet and helicopter strikes extensively in the five-and-a-half-year war.
On Monday, insurgents clashed in a town near the Turkish border as inter-rebel tensions spilled over, playing to Assad's advantage with the government tightening its grip on the rebel-held eastern half of Aleppo.
Guinea Bissau president says will dissolve government
BISSAU, Nov 14 (Reuters) - Guinea Bissau's president said on Monday he would dissolve the government and appoint another soon, as part of a plan to end political deadlock that has gripped the country for over a year.
Prime Minister Baciro Dja was appointed in May to ease tensions that have paralysed the West African country's political institutions since August 2015, the fourth prime minister in nine months. He has failed to win the full support of his ruling PAIGC party.
"I will dismiss this government and appoint without delay a prime minister who must form an inclusive government," President Jose Mario Vaz said.
"I hope to put an end to another episode of instability in our country."
It was not clear when the government would be dissolved and who would take over as prime minister.
The former Portuguese colony has seen nine coups or attempted coups since 1980. The turbulence has helped it become a major transit point for cocaine trafficked from South America to Europe.
Political rivals in September agreed to a road map to ease a crisis that has prevented parliament from agreeing budgets and blocked international aid to the poor, cashew-exporting country of 1.7 million.
Nigerian police, Shi'ite Muslims clash in Kano state, at least nine dead
By Nnekule Ikemfuna
KANO, Nigeria, Nov 14 (Reuters) - Police said nine people were killed in clashes between Shi'ite Muslims and police during a religious procession in northern Nigeria on Monday, but the minority sect said dozens of its members lost their lives.
The clashes occurred on the outskirts of Kano, a city in a state of the same name, as members of the country's largest Shi'ite group, the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), conducted an annual procession to Zaria in neighbouring Kaduna state.
It was the latest in a series of incidents involving the sect. A judicial inquiry in August reported that 347 IMN members were killed and buried in mass graves after clashes with the army in December 2015, and two sect members were killed in processions in Kaduna state last month.
Kano state Police Commissioner Rabiu Yusuf told reporters that nine people died in Monday's violence - eight IMN members and a policeman. He said several people were injured, including four police officers.
"At first we used tear gas on them. They attacked one of our personnel, who sustained a fatal injury," he said. Yusuf said IMN members used the dead policeman's weapon to fire at officers and they had "no option" but to use live ammunition in response.
Ibrahim Musa, a spokesman for the IMN - whose 1980s founders were inspired by the Islamic Revolution in Shi'ite Iran - said policemen opened fire on a peaceful crowd and killed "close to" 100 people including women and children.
"We view the unwarranted killings by the police as a continuation of the army pogrom started in Zaria last year," he said. The exact death toll was unclear, he added, because most of the bodies were "ferried away by the police, possibly for mass burial".
Last month the Kaduna state government declared IMN as an "unlawful society" on the grounds that its processions were a danger to peace, and said anyone convicted of being a member of the sect could be imprisoned for up to seven years.
Human Rights Watch estimates that IMN has around 3 million members. The sect's leader, Sheikh Ibrahim Zakzaky, has been held without charge since December following the clashes with the army in Zaria.
Security analysts have drawn some parallels between the IMN and Boko Haram, the Sunni Muslim jihadist group whose insurgency began in 2009 after security forces killed hundreds of its members and its leader Mohammed Yusuf died in custody.
Old and worn out, U.S. coal-fired power plants easy prey for gas: Kemp
By John Kemp
LONDON, Nov 14 (Reuters) - President Barack Obama's administration has been blamed for the closure of a record number of coal-fired power plants across and heavy job losses in the mining industry.
Since the current administration began in January 2009, more than 400 coal-fired power units have closed across the United States and around 33,000 coal-mining jobs have disappeared.
Coal now accounts for only a third of electricity generated in the United States down from almost half when the president took office.
The administration's opponents criticise it for waging a "war on coal" to support cleaner forms of energy including wind, solar and natural gas.
The administration's supporters credit it with forcing the closure of power plants that were a major source of air pollution as well as greenhouse gases (http://tmsnrt.rs/2eT5xUI).
But the reality is most of the coal-fired units that have closed since the president took office were very old and inefficient and would likely have closed anyway.
OLD AND WORN OUT
The average coal-fired power unit closed during the Obama administration started generating electricity in 1960 and almost all of them began generating before 1971.
So most of the retired units were already over 50 years old and had been producing power much longer than the typical generating unit (http://tmsnrt.rs/2eT8oNf).
The average retired unit had a capacity of just 80-100 megawatts, much smaller than the 500-1,000 megawatts now considered the minimum efficient size for a coal plant.
Aging power plants require much more maintenance to keep them running safely which means they are typically available to generate for far fewer hours each year than more modern ones.
Most components in a coal-fired power plant will show wear and tear as a result of prolonged operation and eventually need replacing ("Coal-fired electric power plant life extension", Martin Marietta, 1986).
Power plant components are subjected to high pressures and temperatures, repeated cycles of heating and cooling, constant exposure to steam and corrosive impurities including sulphur.
The result is a range of damage including creep, fatigue, erosion and corrosion.
Boiler tubes and drums, main steam lines, turbine blades and forgings, scrubbers and generator winding supports are among the expensive items that need replacing.
Power companies must make a commercial decision whether to incur large capital costs to extend the life of existing coal plants or replace them with other sources of generation.
MORE FLEXIBLE WITH GAS
In practice, it has been cheaper to replace coal-fired power plants with combined-cycle gas turbines which are quicker and cheaper to build, easier to run, and offer more generation flexibility.
CCGTs can ramp their production up and down much faster than coal-fired units making them much more suitable for load-following and two-shifting operations (running during the day while switching off at night).
CCGTs are therefore much more attractive for generators needing flexibility to operate in deregulated wholesale power markets.
Most new thermal power plants built in the United States since the early 1990s have therefore been fuelled by gas and employ a CCGT design.
Cheaper gas prices thanks to the shale revolution have entrenched the advantage of gas-fired power generation even further.
Coal units might have survived if demand for electricity had continued growing, in which case it might have made sense to keep them running while building gas-fired power stations to meet incremental demand (http://tmsnrt.rs/2fqZiLy).
But growth in electricity demand has been slowing for decades. Consumption has been essentially flat since 2007, according to an analysis of data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (http://tmsnrt.rs/2fhgq6D).
In a stagnant electricity market, coal-fired power generation has been pitted head to head with natural gas, and lost.
CONTINUED DECLINE LIKELY
Most utilities and independent power producers have opted not to extend the life of coal fired units when the time for the next major refit has arrived.
The Obama administration's encouragement of more solar and wind generation, both by utilities and by households, has worsened the predicament for coal-fired generators.
Stricter pollution and emissions regulations for new power coal-fired power plants (finalised) and existing ones (currently being challenged in court) have added to the compliance burden for coal-fired plants.
But most of those power plants would have retired in any case because it was no longer commercially viable to keep them running.
Coal retirements look set to continue in the medium term even if the forthcoming Trump administration ends the "war on coal".
The average age of coal-fired units still in operation is 39 years (the capacity-weighted average unit first operated in 1977).
By contrast, the average age of combined-cycle gas units is just 13 years (the median plant began generating in 2003).
Very few new coal-fired power units have been constructed in recent years and it is hard to see that changing unless gas prices rise significantly or the demand for electricity starts growing faster.
EU puts Syrian central bank governor under sanctions
By Robin Emmott
BRUSSELS, Nov 14 (Reuters) - The European Union extended its sanctions on Syria on Monday, banning the country's central bank chief and its finance minister from travelling in Europe and freezing their assets in a further step to isolate President Bashar al-Assad.
The decision to target Central Bank Governor Duraid Durgham and Finance Minister Maamoun Hamdan, along with 16 other government ministers, made good on the EU's threat last month to increase sanctions on Syria over the bombing of Aleppo.
Diplomats said targeting the country's finance chiefs was aimed at pressuring Assad and limiting the central bank's ability to obtain financing. The bloc already has a ban on dealings with the central bank, as well as an oil embargo and arms embargo.
The European Union singled out as central bank governor Durgham as "responsible for providing economic and financial support to the Syrian regime."
Hamdan, among those picked in a government reshuffle in July, was put under sanctions along with Syria's ministers responsible for areas such as electricity, water, industry and information.
The decision now puts a total of 234 people and 69 companies and institutions under sanctions for what the bloc said was "repression against the civilian population in Syria."
While the European Union has no military role in the conflict in Syria, it is the biggest aid donor and is facing a migration crisis sparked partly by those fleeing war in the Middle East. The 28-nation bloc accuses Assad of war crimes for the bombing of schools, hospitals and civilians in the country.
EU criticises Turkey but not ready to halt membership talks
By Gabriela Baczynska
BRUSSELS, Nov 14 (Reuters) - European Union foreign ministers on Monday criticised Turkey's crackdown on alleged supporters of a failed military coup in July but Austria's call to suspend Ankara's EU membership bid failed to garner enough backing.
As the 28 EU foreign ministers met in Brussels, President Tayyip Erdogan said he was ready to hold a referendum on whether to continue the membership talks and reiterated that he would restore the death penalty - a move sure to scupper the EU talks - if his parliament passed such a law.
Turkey has suspended, dismissed or detained at least 110,000 people, including soldiers, judges and teachers, since the coup. Critics of President Tayyip Erdogan accuse him of using it as a pretext to crush dissent, a charge he denies.
"I am not for the continuation of entry negotiations and I believe that this Turkey does not have a place in the European Union," said Austrian Foreign Minister Sebastian Kurz.
Luxembourg and Belgium were also critical of Turkey, but the bloc's most powerful members, France and Germany, support continued engagement, arguing that ending the accession negotiations now would do more harm than good.
"...Turkey is too important to us - not least because of the close personal times between our two countries - that we could afford to renounce dialogue, particularly in these difficult times," German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier told reporters before leaving for a one-day visit to Ankara.
Boris Johnson, the foreign minister of Britain, which intends to leave the EU, also cautioned against over-reaction to events in Turkey, a large, strategically important, mainly Muslim country on the EU's southeastern flank.
"We should not push Turkey into a corner, we should not overreact in a way that is against our collective interests," he said.
Despite its increased concerns over human rights and press freedoms in Turkey, the EU has often toned down its criticism of Erdogan and his government, whose cooperation it needs to keep low the number of refugees and migrants reaching Europe via Greece from Turkey.
More than 1.3 million people arrived in Europe last year, triggering bitter disputes between EU member states over how to handle them. The deal with Turkey, though much criticised by rights groups, has reduced the influx to a trickle.
"RED LINE"
An EU official said the bloc's leaders would review the situation in Turkey at a summit scheduled for Dec.15-16. "It would have to be a majority vote to stop the talks and it's clear there is no majority at this stage," the official added.
Some EU countries said the bloc would lose any residual influence it has over Turkey if it suspended talks, but also voiced concern over a possible restoration of the death penalty, previously scrapped by Ankara as part of its accession drive.
"It is important to keep the membership negotiations ongoing since it is the only way to influence Turkey," Finnish Foreign Minister Timo Soini told reporters.
"(But) everybody understands that if it goes on like this, Turkey will not become a member of the EU. The death penalty is the absolute red line for the EU."
Steinmeier said: "We cannot decide for the government in Ankara whether they will slam the door on the EU and turn away from the West. That is Ankara's responsibility. If they decide to reintroduce the death penalty, then that would be a clear signal that they want to permanently close the 'EU file'."
Turkey has often threatened to walk away from the migration deal if the EU does not deliver on its side of the bargain by relaxing visa rules by the end of the year for its citizens visiting Europe.
Ankara has also accused the EU of failing to show sufficient solidarity with it over the failed coup, in which more than 240 people were killed. Erdogan blames a U.S.-based Muslim preacher, Fethullah Gulen, and his supporters for the putsch. Gulen denies any connection with it.
Diplomats said Johnson spoke out during Monday's discussions for a transactional relationship with Turkey, which some took as meaning he thought human rights were of secondary importance.
Relatives of eleven suspected members of the "Aava" gang, who were arrested by the Terrorism Investigation Division (TID) in Jaffna, lodged a complaint with the Human Rights Commission (HRC) stating that the arrests were illegal.
The eleven youths were arrested in Jaffna on charges of being involved in anti-social activities and criminal activities connected to the Aava group.
SLHRC Jaffna District Investigation Officer Thangavel Kanakaraj said the relatives claimed it was illegal to arrest the suspects under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and take them to Colombo when they were charged with robbery.
On Il Full moon day, the first 60 Arhants were sent on Buddhist Missionary activity by the Buddha.
Charata Bhikkave, Charikan, Bahujana Hitaya, Bahujana Sukhaya, Lokanukampaya Attaya Hitana Sukhaya Devamanussanam, Ma Ekena Deva Agamitta Desetha Bhikkave Dhamman Adikarayanam Puriyosana, Kalyanam Pariyosana Kayanan Satthan Sakyanjawan Kevala Paripunnan Parisudaan Brahamachariyam Pakasetha.
Oh! Bhikkus, For the Welfare of the many for the contentment of the Many, through sympathy and kindness to the folk, go forth, and spread Buddha Dhamma for the benefit of Deities and Human Beings.
Significance of Il Poya
The other significant happenings on Il Poya day are the announcement of Maithree Bodhisatta, who received Niyatha Vivarana to be the next enlightened one or the Future Buddha. The three Jatila brothers, Uruwela, Nadi and Gaya Kasyapa, who lived in an hermitage by the side of River Neranja entering the Buddhist Sangha. Ascend to heaven by the Buddha known as Festival of Devaharohana . Agasaw [Chief Disciple] arhant Sariputta visited the mother in his home to town and Passed away on this day. The laying of the foundation to construct the first stupa, Thuparama Dagoba in Sri Lanka in Anuradhapura, where the right canine tooth, [the Dakunu Aku Datuwa] relic was treasured on an Il Poya day. The month is also known as the Cheevara Masaya. The offering of Katina Cheevaraya, which is considered a highly meritorious act, takes place during the month of Il. The end and the climax of the Rainy Season, and of the Retreat Period or Vassana, is marked on Il Full Moon day. Buddhist Monks who performed Pasuvas terminate the retreat period of Vassana on this Il Full Moon Poya Day.
Why didnt the Buddha Say
Why didnt the Buddha say, Oh Bikkhus, go to the kings assembly and help them run the country; get paid by royal treasury and seek Disapamokships in Thakshilas , obtain duty-free horse carriage permits and sell them to the rich; run occult shops in templesetc,
Do not go ahead on what has been acquired by repetitive hearing; nor upon custom; nor upon gossip; nor upon what is in chronicle or scripture; nor upon guess or deduce; nor upon a maxim or adage; nor upon specious logic or reasoning; nor upon a bias towards a view or notion that has been pondered over; nor upon anothers seeming capability or competence; nor upon the reflection, The monk is our tutor. Kalamas, when you yourselves be acquainted with: These things are of good quality, excellent; these things are not blamable; these things are admired and commended by the wise; embarked on and observed, these things guide to benefit and contentment, enter on and stand for, in them. - Kalama Sutta
Chief disciple Sariputta
The passing away of Sariputta, Senior Disciple occurred on Il Poya day. A week before the occurrence, he visited his beloved mother, in the village Nalaka, in the Magadha Province. She did not believe in the Triple Gem, but in another faith called Brahminism.
With a determination to make his mother realize Dhamma he preached relevant portions. After listening to the sons sermon, she attained Sotapanna or the first stage towards liberation. Regarded as the chief disciple of Shakyamuni Buddha who leads in Wisdom, Arhant Sariputta passed away after the successful mission. Ven. Sariputta Thera died while the Buddha was still alive. Sariputta Theras modesty was another exceptional feature of his character. When Rahula the seven-year-old novice Bhikkhu warned him noticing his robe touching the ground, Ven. Sariputta stood before the little Samanera, and turned towards the Buddhas monastery and with linked palms, said: Sadhu, Sadhu in recognition of the little ones deed.
Responding to the request for ending his life, the Buddha said: Please do what is opportune, Sariputta. He left Jethavanaramaya following a long journey arrived at his home in Nalake, where he fell gravely il lying on the same place where he was born. He delivered a sermon on the merits of the Buddha, to the mother named Sari who was instantly converted; she found fault with the son and blamed him for not enlightening her earlier on such an amazing command and magnificence! Ven. Sariputta gathered his robe around his body, covered his face, lying on the right side he attained Parinibbana on Il full moon day.
Wasteful, Noisy extravagant Katina Peraheras
How blinding a belief can be was the idea that sprung to me when I was compelled to witness a Katina Perahera at 4.00 am when it paraded the streets zigzagging through a network of byie roads and mains on its way to the temple? It covered a good three Kilo metres, though the actual distance from the Dayakes house to its destination was only a couple of hundred metres. Professional borukakulkarayas, fire-ball acrobats, drummers, dancers, whip crackers, numerous other showmen and elephants hired at Rs. 75,000 per animal/day are being engaged for the purpose of carrying the Katina Robe to the temple. It is time we stop all wasteful extravagant items conducted in the name of the enlightened one. A famous temple in my area according to reliable sources had spent four and a half million rupees for this years event. Surely these funds collected from devotees could be put to better use. The hospitals are without medicine, childrens homes neglected for want of funds for upkeep. Basic facilities are deprived to senior citizens living at Elders Homes. Clearly, the noise we create is beyond tolerable limits and in complete violation of noise pollution norms of Buddha Dhamma apart from local bye-laws.
The Buddha says in Bhayabherava Sutta, that even the crackle of foliage by a falling stem in the forest shivers the heart. The sound pollution caused by Perahera and all night pirith chanting over public address systems are a real menace. It was during King Devanampiyatissas rule that they imported drummers from South India, under the influence of Hindu priests, for presenting thevawa to sacred Bodhi tree, the Sri Mahabodhiya. The bad habit of whipping and thumping the skins extracted from goats, monkeys and monitors, especially slaughtered for the purpose, has become a Buddhist tradition coined, Shabda Pooja[noise offerings?] of which neither the Buddha nor his pristine Dhamma has anything to do with.
Ehipassiko
One specific characteristic of the Dhamma is the invitation to all, not to believe the doctrine or philosophy in it, but to come and examine, scrutinize the validity of the analysis and cure of the circumstance offered to. Acknowledgment should come if and only when one is convinced and realised for oneself that the healing is wholesome and exceptional. Buddha taught us how to be impartial and balanced observers; the practice of awareness and mindfulness of the moment. We have a never-ending longing to satisfy our sense organs. That is why man is always biased and suffers in this never-ending Sansara.
It was a voice I had never heard before, but one that belonged to a man who has been a political associate and a staunch friend for almost half my life. It was a call from London, a call I had not anticipated despite certain unhappy truths and was certainly not ready for. I found the voice strangely unfamiliar even though I knew who it was.
Krishantha, I am in London. I came here from Geneva. My daughter is not doing too well. The doctors have said they are going to stop medication and that shes not going to make it.
Karu Jayasuriyas voice broke then as he tried to retain his legendary composure. The grief was too much. There was nothing anyone could do. Karu knew this. He said my logical mind says theres no hope, but my emotional mind is hoping for a miracle. There was nothing anyone could do for his younger daughter Indira, who was at that moment breathing her last in the Princess Royal University Hospital near Farnborough, Bromley. Karu has always been there in a moment of crisis; for many people and for me too. The best I could do was to be with Karu during this most tragic moment of his life. And so I immediately left for London.
Indira had been given approximately 24 hours to live, but survived for eight days, defying all logic and astonishing the medical staff of the facility. They said her response was absolutely atypical on all counts. Her father had been there right along, arriving around 5 am and leaving close to midnight on most days. I saw things in that hospital room that were truly unbelievable, things that were unutterably sad and things which told me there was hope for humanity. This is a short account of those eight days. I saw Karu Jayasuriya by his daughter. He held her hand throughout the time he was there. On the other side of the bed was his older daughter Lanka, holding her sisters other hand, never once leaving the hospital. Every now and then Karu would get up, kiss his little girl and sit down. He would cry softly for a while and then go quiet.
Indiras husband Martin would arrive and give an account of his day and that of their children to his unconscious wife. He held in his grief. His love was apparent. Clearly they had always been there for each other and were very much in love. I was to learn during those eight days that Indira, until her last moment of consciousness and clarity, had planned everything to the extent that planning was possible: her funeral, the songs she felt should be sung at the weddings of her children, although they were just four and one-and-a-half-years-old and how life after she was gone should be. Meticulous and duty-conscious were the words that came to mind. They invariably brought to mind the ways of her distraught father.
Lankas husband, Navin Dissanayake, would come in with their daughters. He consoled her. The love and caring in that room was beyond description. Navins girls were probably old enough to know what was happening. They wiped their aunts face. I couldnt help admiring their charm, their caring and the way they conducted themselves. Obviously, Lanka and Navin had brought them up well and I believe something of their maternal grandfather is embedded in their genes. It was the same with Indiras children. Something told me they were very blessed and special children considering the extraordinary circumstances in which they were born and the incredible courage and humanity of their mother.
Amazingly, throughout this difficult time, Karu never failed to attend to his official duties as much as possible. He answered or returned almost every call he got. Some inquired about his daughter, while others, oblivious to what he was going through, talked business, were it parliamentary issues or matters of the Constitutional Council. Karu never once betrayed, in either voice or word, the immense grief he was suffering. He was cordial, composed and as always, efficient. His face was that of an inconsolable father, his voice was that of a duty-conscious public servant. It was as though his heart and mind were absolutely unconnected. How he managed, I cannot understand, unless it had something to do with his deeply Buddhist upbringing and the quality of equanimity he had cultivated over many years.
From time to time, he would inquire about people around him, whether they had eaten, whether everything was okay. He would even ask me about the situation in the country and despite his emotional state, he went to the extent of inquiring about my family back home and how my wife was managing with the kids without me. He was thankful to the doctors, nurses, medical staff and everyone else who did something, however small, to help his daughter.
I could not think of a worse thing to happen to a father. I just could not fathom how he could be so thoughtful towards a world that had been so unjust to him.
But he thought, imagined, uttered his regrets. His emotional mind persuaded him to note Indiras temperature and tell Lanka, a doctor herself, nangige una vadi vela vage (her temperature has gone up) or nangige una bahala nahane (her temperature is not coming down). He worried about Lanka too, whether she had enough rest and was eating well. He made sure he spent time with his grandchildren, Lankas as well as Indiras.
" He held her hand throughout the time he was there. On the other side of the bed was his older daughter Lanka, holding her sisters other hand, never once leaving the hospital"
Indira survived eight days. Those closest to her were present; her father, sister, brother-in-law, husband, children, nieces, cousins and friends. Even the friendships I saw were extraordinary. Towards the end there was mostly silence except for the soothing chant of pirith.
How she survived for so long and why she had to suffer will always remain a mystery. Indira was a vegan. She lived an unblemished life. She overcame a cancer and thereafter had a child. She was pregnant with her second child when a second cancer was discovered. She postponed treatment because she wanted the baby to have the best chances possible for a healthy life.
She sacrificed much and never complained. She suffered but even in her suffering, celebrated life, or rather the lives of those who were closest to her heart, her husband and their two children. Perhaps Karu would draw an explanation from Buddhism. Perhaps he would tell himself that it was the karmic power one brought into this life that determined how long one lived, how one lived and the quantum and temper of the joys and sorrows that had to be endured.
Lanka perhaps had an inkling of what was happening for at one point, she said gently, thaaththa, nangige athin allagena innakota nangita yanna amaaru athi (it might be difficult for her to let go while you hold her hand). She probably felt that the release from the burden of her impossible condition was being held back by love and that love required her family to let go.
Karus response was soft and immediate. His logical mind and emotional mind reconciled their differences. Ehemada loku duwa.ow mata therenava... eth thava poddak allan indala atha arinnada? (Is that so. yes, I understand... but is it alright if I held her hand for just a little while longer?).
He let go. And she let go in return. And in that letting go, they made peace with themselves and one another, I felt. She passed away in the presence of loved ones. Peacefully. The Jayasuriya family was there for each other in their most tragic moment. They faced the entire process with love and dignity. I felt that in some inexplicable way, Indira would have left in peace, knowing that her entire family and all those who cared for her unconditionally were together, strong and united.
I accompanied Karu back to Sri Lanka. I uttered whatever words I felt might help alleviate his sorrow, even though I felt I would fail miserably. And I remembered the voice that came over the phone, the voice from London that I had heard eight days before, the unfamiliar voice of someone who had been like a father to me. It was the voice of a wonderful and utterly distraught father. It is not a voice I want to hear again but I am glad I heard it. It was the voice of an incredible human being. A father to two girls, both beautiful and wonderful, one by his side and one gone beyond the reach of caress, both forever resident in his heart. I am glad I was privileged enough to be by his side for the long, sad and educational eight days in a hospital room.
A leading foreign embassy located in Colombo has complained to the Foreign Affairs Ministry that residents living in the neighbourhood were pelting stones at the embassy premises across the parapet wall.
Sources said the embassy had reportedly complained to the police as well as the Defence Ministry over the incident.
The embassy was built on a land which had been previously occupied by squatters and there was a controversy over the ownership of the land for the past couple of years. The pelting of stones had been reported on several occasions. (Thilini De Silva)
The US Geological Survey said the magnitude-7.4 quake hit just after midnight (11:02 GMT on Sunday), some 95km (59 miles) from Christchurch.
The ministry of civil defence has warned people on the east coast of the South Island to move to higher ground in case of tsunamis.
Christchurch is still recovering from the 2011 earthquake that killed 185 people and destroyed the city centre.
New Zealand lies on the notorious Ring of Fire, the line of frequent quakes and volcanic eruptions that circles virtually the entire Pacific rim.
The Herald newspaper said the tremor was felt all the way to Wellington, where sirens sounded and people fled buildings into the streets, some of them crying.
Early reports suggest some houses in Cheviot town, near the epicentre, have been damaged.
A resident of Christchurch said the tremor lasted a "long" time.
"We were asleep and woken to the house shaking, it kept going and going and felt like it was going to build up," she told AFP news agency.
A magnitude-7.1 quake struck 169km (105 miles) north-east of Gisborne on the North Island in September, sparking a tsunami warning. It caused some damage to property, but no injuries. (BBC)
Prior to the opening of the economy, due to import restrictions local industrialists of all grades and descriptions revelled in the demand for their local products. The import restrictions in addition helped many technically skilled entrepreneurs to venture to fabricate machines capable of turning out spare parts in great demand for vehicles; wood-working machines; arc welding plants; generators; and other machinery and equipment for workshops. The selling prices were reasonably low and within the reach of modest income earners.
"Commencing of an umbrella turning out project in Hambantota with working females preferring several, umbrellas to match their dresses, the sales capability was not an issue"
Machinery and equipment that were fabricated for rice milling, prompted many local businessmen with capital to commence rice processing mills all over the paddy growing areas. Transport of produce improved with the importing of Lorries; perhaps on restricted basis. The local banks, with the two State Banks leading in their obligatory duty to help the local ventures, adopted a risk bearing approach to provide finance at reasonable rates of interest with Central Bank awareness.
Consumer preference over a period shifted to local products and-the price difference created a local product preference. Thus legislation alone cannot promote and protect local industry, unless with the promoted local production, the duties on imported items are increased limiting imports and a promotion of local product buying preference is also promoted. The previous Government at the peak of its popularity did not request its financially capable supporters to commence a few employment creating industries. Considering the female population in the Southern Province, commencing of an umbrella turning out project in Hambantota with working females preferring several, umbrellas to match their dresses, the sales capability was not an issue. Several other items relating to males and females, including cotton sarongs and footwear could have been commenced, thus providing employment opportunities mainly to the young in their home locations.
The present government too seems to have not canvassed the cash rich and capable persons to commence industrial units for items in popular demand. Both governments had cash-rich supporters who had earned from gambling and investment related pursuits and preferred State owned organizations and private organizations to serve in their directorates with a safe investment and with assured annual dividends, rather than venture to commence an industry in unknown locations, risking their gambling and investment related earnings.
"Legislation alone cannot promote and protect local industry, unless with the promoted local production, the duties on imported items are increased limiting imports and a promotion of local product buying preference is also promoted. "
Dr. Palitha Kohona, with his internationally-related knowledge in a lengthy article on Daily Mirror of October 26, has expressed his profound knowledge mainly in relation to legislative support desired for the protection of local industry. But a government cannot frequently release statements and expect a growth in local industrial investment without assured competitive import protection and preferential local goods sales and purchases promotion. Dr. Kohona had said, The inadequacy of institutional support has been a major reason for Sri Lankan exporters being placed at a disadvantage The institutional support could include government institutions and their officers and banks and their management and officers. For any support inadequacy of banks, the investor could seek Central Bank intervention not as a complainant, but where applicable to obtain redress. The institutional deficiency, specially relating to banks is a hackneyed thought of a few who are not directly involved in business ventures.
He had also stated that with a 1.2 billion population; Securing effective market access to India is vital for Sri Lanka. But it is a challenging confrontation, considering the Indian peoples strong faith in the desire to use products manufactured in India, and in his own belief that; many developed countries straining to enter the Indian market place because of the undoubted potential it offers. Thus the export growth of our products to the Indian market may confront many unanticipated hurdles. In attempting to access the Indian market, with various agreements, we may be blindfolded and open our market to Indias advantage and the promotion of local industrial production in medium ventures and rural level small ventures left to battle a challenge in marketing their products with India and China dumping their low production-cost goods. Steel Corporations Lanlo spoons and other local items will feel the heat of Indian and Chinese competition. Locally manufactured dry cell batteries are not found in shops for sale, is the corporation closed? Instead of local green tea bags, some prefer imported green tea bags, a cash-rich house wives pride preferential.
"The present government too seems to have not canvassed the cash rich and capable persons to commence industrial units for items in popular demand"
A writers letter on Preferential Purchasing published in the Daily Mirror of Sept. 28, referred to two local products; Sometime in 2010, I purchased two locally assembled table clocks, and about a year ago purchased a locally-assembled mini-fridge, name indicating the reputed company but the recent newspaper advertisements of both institutions not reveal the availability of the two locally-assembled products. Similar attempts made to assemble products locally may have been abandoned, due to the high cost of importing the necessary components.
The IDB made a noteworthy contribution. Often collaborating with banks and the authorities should prompt the IDB to take a more active role to promote new industrial ventures.
Former member of the UN special panel Yasmin Sooka has said the UN Committee Against Torture (UNCAT) should visit Sri Lanka and conduct an independent investigation into the continued abductions, torture and sexual violence allegedly committed by the security forces, the Indian Express today reported.
Indian-origin Yasmin Sooka is a member of a former UN special panel on Sri Lankas war with the LTTE. She heads the International Truth and Justice Project (ITJP).
Her call has come ahead of the UNCATs meeting in Geneva this week to examine torture in Sri Lanka.
Torture and abduction are so systematic and entrenched in the DNA of the security forces that even a realignment of political parties in parliament and the new government under President Sirisena are not able to stop these crimes.
It requires political will and a commitment on the part of the Government of Sri Lanka to carry out a comprehensive security sector reform programme which is sadly missing in Sri Lanka, Sooka said in a statement.
She was one of three in the panel appointed by the former UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to advise him on the alleged war crimes in Sri Lanka during the last phase of the war with the LTTE which ended in 2009.
Her International Truth and Justice Project (ITJP) has collected testimony from 36 Tamil victims in three European countries, who have suffered abduction, illegal detention, torture or sexual violence at the hands of intelligence and security officers under the present Sri Lanka government.
In 10 of these cases the victims have already been granted asylum, meaning their cases have already been found credible by foreign governments, she said.
Overall ITJP has more than two hundred statements from Sri Lankan victims of alleged war crimes and post-war torture and sexual violence who have fled the country. The orgnisation has also begun to identify some alleged perpetrators, Sooka said.
I want the outside world to know that torture is still happening in Sri Lanka and the torture that I suffered, the news article said quoting a young Tamil woman allegedly abducted in a white van and gang raped this year in illegal detention in the North.
The international community, including the UN is under an obligation to ensure that the Government of Sri Lanka honours its commitments made in the Human Rights Council in regard to the transitional justice programme in Sri Lanka.
Overlooking the ongoing violations is not doing either the Government of Sri Lanka a favour or the victims, whose suffering should not be swept under the carpet just because of political expediency, Sooka added. (The Indian Express)
Soon after the July 1983 anti-Tamil riots in Sri Lanka and the influx of Tamil refugees into Tamil Nadu, the training of Tamil militants began in Tamil Nadu with the knowledge and patronage of the Tamil Nadu government. Indias national intelligence agencies started their training program only in 1984, when New Delhi felt that Tamil Nadus initiative in the matter might not be in the overall Indian interest, says Air Marshal (Rtd) Bharat Kumar in his book Operation Pawan: Role of Airpower with IPKF.
The training of Tamil rebels had commenced in Tamil Nadu with full knowledge and in some cases, under the patronage of the state government. New Delhis suggestion to rein in these Tamil groups were not acceptable to Tamil Nadu leaders. Since the Central government could not afford Tamil Nadu invading Sri Lanka, various Indian intelligence agencies also got into the act from 1984 onward. It was better that the Indian state got involved in Sri Lanka rather than the Tamil Nadu government because of obvious repercussions, Bharat Kumar says.
Unlike Tamil Nadu leaders M.G.Ramachandran and M.Karunanidhi, Indian Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi were not for an independent Tamil state in Sri Lanka. They saw the arming of the Tamil militants as an instrument to pressurize the Sri Lankan government to find a permanent solution to the Sri Lankan Tamil problem.
This is why, even as the training of Sri Lankan Tamil militants was going on India in 1984, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi sent, in December that year, an undisclosed number of Indian warships to patrol the Palk Strait.
Quoting Edgar OBallance, The Cyanide war: Tamil Insurrection in Sri Lanka 1977-88, Bharat Kumar says: He (Rajiv Gandhi) also decided to reduce the flow of arms from Tamil Nadu to Tamil insurgents in Sri Lanka. And on 29 March 1985, the Indian Coast Guard began selectively stopping and searching craft suspected of ferrying weapons across the Palk Strait.
However, despite these steps, by early 1987, there were fears of the LTTE becoming too strong. India launched Operation Tiger in November 1986 to disarm LTTE cadres in India and to take over their communication equipment .This action took place just before the SAARC summit in Bangalore. But to generate goodwill before the summit, where Rajiv Gandhi wanted LTTE chief Prabhakaran and Sri Lankan President J.R.Jayewardene (JR) to meet and thrash out issues, the seized equipment were released.
When the JR-Prabhakaran talks broke down with JR saying a firm no to the merger of the Northern and Eastern Provinces to form a single Tamil-speaking province, and Prabhakaran sticking firmly to his demand for an independent Eelam, Rajiv Gandhi developed an aversion for Prabhakarans intransigence, and became more favorably inclined to Jayewardenes views.
By 1986, the LTTE had established its dominance in the Northern peninsula, subjugating the rival Tamil militant groups and at the same time defending the peninsula against the Sri Lankan forces. The situation worsened in January 1987 when the Tigers announced a plan to establish a separate administration in Jaffna and the Sri Lankan government immediately imposed an embargo on food and fuel supplies to the North creating near famine conditions.(Indian Express)
A product of his era with gifted talents
One may wonder whether there is anything left to write on Eng. B. D. Rampala, the late General Manager of Ceylon Government Railways (CGR), because so much more has been written by individuals related to the railway sector as well as to the profession of engineering.
Eng. Rampala
et, this writer thinks that some more things can be said of this person considered by many as an Icon in the Sri Lankan Railways. What has been written so far mostly touches his persona from a one side: i.e. his extraordinary talents as an individual to dogmatically emphasize the importance of taking his character as an example.
This writer is of the view although not entirely anew, that, Eng. Rampala can best be understood in the light of international setting of his industry, within which he worked and his ability to make breakthroughs and introduce new technology into CGR (now Sri Lanka Railways or SLR). In order to achieve this target, he had to overcome conservatism inherited from more than two hundred years of colonial rule. The writer is interested in this piece because roles played by individuals such as Eng. Rampala in various industries make lasting imprints on the journey of mankind. Imprints left by Eng. Rampala as a technocrat and a change agent are etched in our society to date. It is worthy to remind ourselves and take cue from those legacies to do whats much needed in the country, especially in the public transport sector.
Biography
Bamunuarachchigae Don Rampala was born on 14 November 1910 and grew up at his ancestral home in Moraketiya Junction, Pannipitiya. He received his education initially at the English Mixed School in Kottawa. Then he went to Nalanda College Colombo and completed his Senior Cambridge Examination at Ananda College.
Ceylon Government Railways- Golden Era of B.D. Rampala and the Way forward by Ranjith L. Dissanayake states that Mr. Rampala entered the Colombo University College and completed his examinations in Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics and Physics. After a few months training in the Police Department he joined the Ratmalana Railway Mechanical Engineering Department of the then CGR as a Special Apprentice in 1931.
He sat and passed the Bachelor of Science Degree of the University of London as an External Candidate in 1933. He then got qualified as an Engineer on private study by obtaining the Associate Membership of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) in October 1935.
Eng. B.D. Rampala was appointed Chief Mechanical Engineer (CME) in 1949, the first Ceylonese (as Sri Lankans were then called) for the post. In 1955 he became General Manager of Railways (GMR) at the age of 45, a position he was to hold for 14 years up until his retirement in the late 1960s. He was the GMR having the second longest term of office.
The striking fact that comes into light is that Eng. Rampala was not interested in becoming an engineer because of higher social esteem but because he understood it is the best area where he can perform to the full. That is, he chose the profession not due to just inner passion but it would suit to him.
Eng. Rampala was elected the President of The Institution of Engineers, Sri Lanka (IESL) in 1958. In fact, this was the year the bus industry was nationalized and the centenary of Ceylon Government Railways. He was also instrumental in establishing the Ceylon Transport Board along with Vera de Mel. Every year, IESL celebrates Eng. Ramaplas service to the nation with a Memorial lecture conducted at its premises, open to the public.
His Role
Like any other leading character Eng. Rampala was also a product of his time and era. But his ability to grasp new trends in the rail industry and commitment to apply them superseded the conservative ways of approaching and looking at new technology, which still holds its sway in general.
By the time Eng. Rampala was given the task of fulfilling responsibilities of CME at CGR, the British Railway had already been in existence for more than two hundred years. Historical records state that Britain is the first nation to use steam locomotives in rail transport, while the idea of wooden-railed wagon-ways originated in Germany as far back as in the 16th century.
By the late 1940s, the steam locomotives were though still in operation had started to show difficulties in their ability to cater to modern day needs because railway itself was becoming a popular mode of traveling.
So, in one way or other a breakthrough was a need of the day at the time. Railway professionals internationally were able to give a solution to the issue with the introduction of diesel locomotives.
Here comes the role of Eng. Rampala in CGR, which most of people including the engineering professionals in Sri Lanka would like to consider as if it was a result of pure individual talent.
Instead, this writer holds the position this man had no boundaries in keeping updated with the latest developments in technology and that made him an icon in the field. He had the courage to introduce the latest advances in railway to this tiny island which speaks a great deal of his acquaintance with the enormous knowledge in the subject. In fact, the all-sided knowledge of the field gave him the gift of courage to apply the same practically.
Then comes the role of the individual. Most of the railway nomenclature, like Udarata Menike, Yal Devi and Ruhunu Kumari made their first appearance in Eng. Rampalas day and in fact they are his creations. This is not a case of just giving names and signing birth certificates but came from a broad vision that railway should be a subject of public endeavour.
It has been a sort of annual practice that Eng. Rampala is memorialized but only from the side of his positives. But if the present day railway community wanted to get examples from this person so that they are able to get ready to modern day challenges including electrification of the railway - Sri Lanka Railways (SLR) should give careful attention to his merits and demerits as well.
Because Eng. Rampala would have his own share of demerits coming in a long career in a professional area which always expects the best even from the most capable. After all he was human!
This area, however, cannot be discussed here in detail because of a major reason: The writer is not well-versed about his approaches to every issue to comment as that area is not well researched and recorded apart from some sort of tittle-tattle.
Similarly, his approach to administrative issues definitely emerged since he was the GMR at a tumultuous period created by political factors. In this vein, most of the writers so far have emphasized his administrative capabilities only categorically.
Considering these and other details which cannot be grappled in an article like this, Eng. Rampala should be taken as an example of a vision that human capabilities ultimately makes it possible to utilize scientific and technological advances for the common good of society.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's November 2016 visit to Tokyo has marked a new era in the already historic India-Japan relations. The country's strategic community has been looking at Japan's technical capacity in the strategic field ever since 1968, when PN Haksar as secretary to the then PM Indira Gandhi wrote about seeking Japan's nuclear capabilities in his notes.
PM Modi is concluding a significant visit to Japan, where a historic nuclear cooperation agreement has been signed. Japan will now be opening its nuclear technology to India providing nuclear reactors and other aspects like fuel, components, et al.
Westinghouse (US nuclear reactor makers) is majority-owned by Toshiba (almost 90 percent) and a substantial emerging entity in China's nuclear market, involved with as many as four AP1000 nuclear power plants.
The Nuclear Power Cooperation of India Limited (NPCIL) has already been linked to Westinghouse for six of the AP1000s, which was the outcome of PM Modi's visit to Washington DC in June 2016.
The other end of the nuclear yarn leads from the French nuclear tech entity AREVA, run jointly by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and French entity Electicite de France (EDF). AREVA was nearing bankruptcy in middle of 2015.
The nuclear industry of France and Japan is in challenging times and the future pace of nuclear energy in the countries is uncertain. Japan operates 42 nuclear reactors with another four under construction and another three (ABWR-Advanced Boiling Water Reactors) planned for future construction.
There are other kinds of nuclear mart intricacies. For instance, Japan Casting and Forging Corporation also provides components for the French nuclear industry. Many French reactors are made by Japanese manufacturers using Japanese steel forging. The search for new markets is driven by financial survival of these industries by capturing emerging nuclear mart in India and China. Other emerging markets are Turkey, Vietnam, et al.
There is much historical symmetry pulling the two sides together in this strategic cooperation since India had consistently held during the Cold War era that Japan's nuclear industry had been unfairly and heavily burdened by US regulatory requirements and the NPT.
The US, during the Jimmy Carter years, tried to put brakes on the plutonium reprocessing technology in which Japanese industry had invested as much as three billion dollars in the late 1970s. Thus, the historical understanding India has provided to the need for Japan to have an independent and strong nuclear power programme was a constant that the latter could cite to critics of the new agreement within Japan.
The nuclear agreement is a sure verifier that India-Japan relations are making the transition from their Cold War dynamics of warm, earthy understanding underlined by the geo-economic vector of Japan, which continuously invested in India's future. However, Japan was mostly circumspect of strategic opportunities being floated by Indian prime ministers and preferred to keep pragmatism to mould the bilateral balance.
Shinzo Abe is perhaps the first Japanese Prime Minister to approach India from an ideological perspective and not merely from one of pragmatism. It began with PM Abe's grandfather, PM Nobusuke Kishi, whom Nehru had invited to India in 1957. Kishi in turn invited Nehru to Japan. PM Kishi was a "cold warrior" and PM Abe in many respects inherits that ideology, but both had seen India through pragmatism and geo-economics. This is now verifiably changing.
PM Abe's clarity on foreign policy vision can be placed within the "Arc of Freedom and Prosperity" found in the diplomatic bluebook of Japan's ministry of foreign affairs. Within this, PM Abe has evolved an upgrade of India-Japan status, which has implications for both the countries' China policy as well as, to some extent, Japan's Russia policy.
These will become increasingly important in the light of more inward-looking US foreign policy administration expected under President-elect Donald Trump. Here, India-Japan relations would give the two countries an added strategic impulse needed to approach southeast Asian countries that are increasingly looking to modify their status with the major nuclear powers.
As for India's nuclear weapons programme, the very fact that the agreement has taken place knowing that India is currently on its way to develop a comprehensive deployable status for its nuclear triad delivery platforms is, in itself, a signifier that Tokyo accepts New Delhi's nuclear deterrence requirements.
It is known to Japan that India's principal nuclear adversary was China ever since the former's nuclear weapons' programme was launched covertly in 1968. India's department of atomic energy had even written a brief for the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) in 1970 about the possibility of tactical nuclear weapon exchanges between India and China in the Himalayan region in a situation where Chinese troops would be frustrated in a possible aggressive incursion into India and may resort to use of tactical weapons.
PN Haksar, as secretary to PM Indira Gandhi, had written in 1968 that "nuclear 'stand-off' with China was essential as soon as possible" and that it had the ability to strike the industrial heartlands of China with long-range ballistic missiles. Thus, as mentioned earlier, Japan is aware of the built-in deterrent requirements in India's nuclear weapons program.
On the other hand, India is a strong supporter of PM Abe's push for a shift in the status of Article 9 in the Japanese Constitution, which limits the country's defence capabilities and deployment options to secure its national interests in the current global security environment. November 3 also marked the 70th anniversary of the promulgation of Japan's Constitution, which was essentially forcefully grafted by US general Mc Arthur onto Japan's post-war political consciousness.
Modi chose Japan as the first country for an overseas visit after taking over as Indian PM in 2014.
However, what would be the status of such ambitious agreements if India were to conduct a nuclear test? India must not give up its autonomy to conduct nuclear explosives underground testing as part of any such agreement - this can be secured through indirect language in the pacts, which allows both parties to vent disagreement while remaining committed to long-term nuclear cooperation.
Delek US Holdings, Inc. engages in the integrated downstream energy business in the United States. The company operates through three segments: Refining, Logistics, and Retail. The Refining segment processes crude oil and other feedstock for the manufacture of various grades of gasoline, diesel fuel, aviation fuel, asphalt, and other petroleum-based products that are distributed through owned and third-party product terminal. It owns and operates four independent refineries located in Tyler, Texas; El Dorado, Arkansas; Big Spring, Texas; and Krotz Springs, Louisiana, as well as three biodiesel facilities in Crossett, Arkansas, Cleburne, Texas, and New Albany. The Logistics segment gathers, transports, and stores crude oil, intermediate, and refined products; and markets, distributes, transports, and stores refined products for third parties. It owns or leases capacity on approximately 400 miles of crude oil transportation pipelines, approximately 450 miles of refined product pipelines, an approximately 900-mile crude oil gathering system, and associated crude oil storage tanks with an aggregate of approximately 10.2 million barrels of active shell capacity; and owns and operates ten light product distribution terminals, as well as markets light products using third-party terminals. The Retail segment owns and leases 248 convenience store sites located primarily in West Texas and New Mexico. Its convenience stores offer various grades of gasoline and diesel under the DK or Alon brand; and food products and service, tobacco products, non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages, and general merchandise, as well as money orders to the public primarily under the 7-Eleven and DK or Alon brand names. It serves oil companies, independent refiners and marketers, jobbers, distributors, utility and transportation companies, the U.S. government, and independent retail fuel operators. Delek US Holdings, Inc. was founded in 2001 and is headquartered in Brentwood, Tennessee.
Ecopetrol S.A. operates as an integrated energy company. The company operates through four segments: Exploration and Production; Transport and Logistics; Refining, Petrochemical and Biofuels; and Electric Power Transmission and Toll Roads Concessions. It engages in the exploration and production of oil and gas; transportation of crude oil, motor fuels, fuel oil, and other refined products, including diesel, jet, and biofuels; processing and refining crude oil; distribution of natural gas and LPG; sale of refined and petrochemical products; supplying of electric power transmission services; design, development, construction, operation, and maintenance of road and energy infrastructure projects; and supplying of information technology and telecommunications services. As of December 31, 2021, the company had approximately 9,127 kilometers of crude oil and multi-purpose pipelines. It also produces and commercializes polypropylene resins and compounds, and masterbatches; and offers industrial service sales to customers and specialized management services. It has operations in Colombia, the United States, Asia, Central America and the Caribbean, Europe, South America, and internationally. The company was formerly known as Empresa Colombiana de Petroleos and changed its name to Ecopetrol S.A. in June 2003. Ecopetrol S.A. was incorporated in 1948 and is based in Bogota, Colombia.
Provident Financial Services, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Provident Bank that provides various banking products and services to individuals, families, and businesses in the United States. The company's deposit products include savings, checking, interest-bearing checking, money market deposit, and certificate of deposit accounts, as well as IRA products. Its loan portfolio comprises commercial real estate loans that are secured by properties, such as multi-family apartment buildings, office buildings, and retail and industrial properties; commercial business loans; fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgage loans collateralized by one- to four-family residential real estate properties; commercial construction loans; and consumer loans consisting of home equity loans, home equity lines of credit, marine loans, personal loans and unsecured lines of credit, and auto and recreational vehicle loans. The company also offers cash management, remote deposit capture, payroll origination, escrow account management, and online and mobile banking services; and business credit cards. In addition, it provides wealth management services comprising investment management, trust and estate administration, financial planning, tax compliance and planning, and private banking. Further, the company sells insurance and investment products, including annuities; operates as a real estate investment trust for acquiring mortgage loans and other real estate related assets; and manages and sells real estate properties acquired through foreclosure. As of December 31, 2021, it operated 96 full-service branch offices in northern and central New Jersey, as well as in Pennsylvania and New York counties. The company was founded in 1839 and is headquartered in Jersey City, New Jersey.
Royal Bank of Canada operates as a diversified financial service company worldwide. The company's Personal & Commercial Banking segment offers checking and savings accounts, home equity financing, personal lending, private banking, indirect lending, including auto financing, mutual funds and self-directed brokerage accounts, guaranteed investment certificates, credit cards, and payment products and solutions; and lending, leasing, deposit, investment, foreign exchange, cash management, auto dealer financing, trade products, and services to small and medium-sized commercial businesses. This segment offers financial products and services through branches, automated teller machines, and mobile sales network. Its Wealth Management segment provides a suite of advice-based solutions and strategies to high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals, and institutional clients. The company's Insurance segment offers life, health, home, auto, travel, wealth, annuities, and reinsurance advice and solutions; and business insurance services to individual, business, and group clients through its advice centers, RBC insurance stores, and mobile advisors; digital, mobile, and social platforms; independent brokers; and travel partners. Its Investor & Treasury Services segment provides asset servicing, custody, payments, and treasury services to financial and other investors; and fund and investment administration, shareholder, private capital, performance measurement and compliance monitoring, distribution, transaction banking, cash and liquidity management, foreign exchange, and global securities finance services. The company's Capital Markets segment offers corporate and investment banking, as well as equity and debt origination, distribution, advisory services, sale, and trading services for corporations, institutional investors, asset managers, private equity firms, and governments. The company was founded in 1864 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.
The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation provides a range of financial products and services in the United States and internationally. The company operates through Securities Services, Market and Wealth Services, Investment and Wealth Management, and Other segments. The Securities Services segment offers custody, trust and depositary, accounting, exchange-traded funds, middle-office solutions, transfer agency, services for private equity and real estate funds, foreign exchange, securities lending, liquidity/lending services, prime brokerage, and data analytics. This segment also provides trustee, paying agency, fiduciary, escrow and other financial, issuer, and support services for brokers and investors. The Market and Wealth Services segment offers clearing and custody, investment, wealth and retirement solutions, technology and enterprise data management, trading, and prime brokerage services; and clearance and collateral management services. This segment also provides integrated cash management solutions, including payments, foreign exchange, liquidity management, receivables processing and payables management, and trade finance and processing services. The Investment and Wealth Management segment offers investment management strategies and distribution of investment products, investment management, custody, wealth and estate planning, private banking, investment, and information management services. The Other segment engages in the provision of leasing, corporate treasury, derivative and other trading, corporate and bank-owned life insurance, renewable energy investment, and business exit services. It serves central banks and sovereigns, financial institutions, asset managers, insurance companies, corporations, local authorities and high net-worth individuals, and family offices. The company was founded in 1784 and is headquartered in New York, New York.
Energizer Holdings, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, markets, and distributes household batteries, specialty batteries, and lighting products worldwide. It offers lithium, alkaline, carbon zinc, nickel metal hydride, zinc air, and silver oxide batteries under the Energizer and Eveready brands, as well as primary, rechargeable, specialty, and hearing aid batteries. The company also provides headlights, lanterns, and children's and area lights, as well as flash lights under the Energizer, Eveready, Rayovac, Hard Case, Dolphin, Varta, and WeatherReady brands. In addition, it licenses the Energizer and Eveready brands to companies developing consumer solutions in gaming, automotive batteries, portable power for critical devices, LED light bulbs, generators, power tools, household light bulbs, and other lighting products. Further, the company designs and markets automotive fragrance and appearance products, including protectants, wipes, tire and wheel care products, glass cleaners, leather care products, air fresheners, and washes to clean, shine, refresh, and protect interior and exterior automobile surfaces under the brand names of Armor All, Nu Finish, Refresh Your Car!, LEXOL, Eagle One, California Scents, Driven, and Bahama & Co; STP branded fuel and oil additives, functional fluids, and other performance chemical products; and do-it-yourself automotive air conditioning recharge products under the A/C PRO brand name, as well as other refrigerant and recharge kits, sealants, and accessories. It sells its products through direct sales force, distributors, and wholesalers; and through various retail and business-to-business channels, including mass merchandisers, club, electronics, food, home improvement, dollar store, auto, drug, hardware, e-commerce, convenience, sporting goods, hobby/craft, office, industrial, medical, and catalog. Energizer Holdings, Inc. was incorporated in 2015 and is headquartered in Saint Louis, Missouri.
Bank of Montreal provides diversified financial services primarily in North America. The company's personal banking products and services include checking and savings accounts, credit cards, mortgages, and financial and investment advice services; and commercial banking products and services comprise business deposit accounts, commercial credit cards, business loans and commercial mortgages, cash management solutions, foreign exchange, specialized banking programs, treasury and payment solutions, and risk management products for small business and commercial banking customers. It also offers investment and wealth advisory services; digital investing services; financial services and solutions; and investment management, and trust and custody services. In addition, the company provides life insurance, accident and sickness insurance, and annuity products; creditor and travel insurance to bank customers; and reinsurance solutions. Further, it offers client's debt and equity capital-raising services, as well as loan origination and syndication, and treasury management; strategic advice on mergers and acquisitions, restructurings, and recapitalizations, as well as valuation and fairness opinions; and trade finance, risk mitigation, and other operating services. Additionally, the company provides research and access to markets for institutional, corporate, and retail clients; trading solutions that include debt, foreign exchange, interest rate, credit, equity, securitization and commodities; new product development and origination services, as well as risk management advice and services to hedge against fluctuations; and funding and liquidity management services to its clients. It operates through approximately 900 bank branches and 3,300 automated banking machines in Canada and the United States. Bank of Montreal was founded in 1817 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada.
Emera Incorporated, an energy and services company, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity to various customers. The company operates through Florida Electric Utility, Canadian Electric Utilities, Other Electric Utilities, Gas Utilities and Infrastructure, and Other segments. It generates electricity through coal-fired, natural gas and/or oil, hydro, wind, solar, petroleum coke, and biomass-fueled power plants. The company is also involved in the purchase, transmission, distribution, and sale of natural gas; and the provision of energy marketing, trading, and other energy asset management services. In addition, it transports re-gasified liquefied natural gas from Saint John, New Brunswick to consumers in the northeastern United States through its 145-kilometer pipeline. As of December 31, 2021, the company's electric utilities served approximately 810,600 customers in West Central Florida; 536,000 customers in Nova Scotia; 132,000 customers in the island of Barbados; 19,000 customers in the Grand Bahama Island; and 35,700 customers in the island of Dominica, as well as gas utilities and infrastructure served approximately 445,000 customers across Florida and 542,000 customers in New Mexico. It also provides insurance and reinsurance services to Emera and its affiliates, as well as offers financing services. The company was incorporated in 1998 and is headquartered in Halifax, Canada.
The Clorox Company manufactures and markets consumer and professional products worldwide. It operates through four segments: Health and Wellness, Household, Lifestyle, and International. The Health and Wellness segment offers cleaning products, such as laundry additives and home care products primarily under the Clorox, Clorox2, Scentiva, Pine-Sol, Liquid-Plumr, Tilex, and Formula 409 brands; professional cleaning and disinfecting products under the CloroxPro and Clorox Healthcare brands; professional food service products under the Hidden Valley brand; and vitamins, minerals and supplement products under the RenewLife, Natural Vitality, NeoCell, and Rainbow Light brands in the United States. The Household segment provides cat litter products under the Fresh Step and Scoop Away brands; bags and wraps under the Glad brand; and grilling products under the Kingsford brand in the United States. The Lifestyle segment offers dressings, dips, seasonings, and sauces primarily under the Hidden Valley brand; natural personal care products under the Burt's Bees brand; and water-filtration products under the Brita brand in the United States. The International segment provides laundry additives; home care products; water-filtration systems; digestive health products; grilling products; cat litter products; food products; bags and wraps; natural personal care products; and professional cleaning and disinfecting products internationally primarily under the Clorox, Ayudin, Clorinda, Poett, Pine-Sol, Glad, Brita, RenewLife, Ever Clean and Burt's Bees brands. The Clorox Company sells its products primarily through mass retailers; grocery outlets; warehouse clubs; dollar stores; home hardware centers; drug, pet and military stores; third-party and owned e-commerce channels; and distributors, as well as a direct sales force The company was founded in 1913 and is headquartered in Oakland, California.
Tyler Technologies, Inc. provides integrated information management solutions and services for the public sector. The company operates in three segments: Enterprise Software; Appraisal and Tax; and NIC. It offers financial management solutions, including modular fund accounting systems for government agencies or not-for-profit entities; utility billing systems for the billing and collection of metered and non-metered services; products to automate city and county functions, such as municipal courts, parking tickets, equipment and project costing, animal and business licenses, permits and inspections, code enforcement, citizen complaint tracking, ambulance billing, fleet maintenance, and cemetery records management; and student information and transportation solutions for K-12 schools. The company also provides a suite of judicial solutions comprising court case management, court and law enforcement, prosecutor, and supervision systems to handle multi-jurisdictional county or statewide implementations, and single county systems; public safety software solutions; systems and software to automate the appraisal and assessment of real and personal property, as well as tax applications for agencies that bill and collect taxes; planning, regulatory, and maintenance software solutions for public sector agencies; software applications to enhance and automate operations involving records and document management; and data and insights solutions. In addition, it offers software as a service arrangements and electronic document filing solutions for courts and law offices; software and hardware installation, data conversion, training, product modification, and maintenance and support services; and property appraisal outsourcing services for taxing jurisdictions. The company has a strategic collaboration agreement with Amazon Web Services for cloud hosting services. Tyler Technologies, Inc. was founded in 1966 and is headquartered in Plano, Texas.
Investigating crime scenes is almost always a finicky job, but when a case leads police into the water, searching for evidence and preserving biological material can suddenly seem impossible. Thats when one Greene County deputy straps on his flippers and oxygen tank, and enters a new world.
Greene sheriffs Investigator Scott Murphy is one of an elite few who can process an underwater crime scene and preserve any forensic evidence that might still be in the watery scene. Last month, after an intense four-day class, Murphy, 43, was certified in Underwater Crime Scene Investigations, putting the Sheriffs Office on a list of just eight agencies in Virginia with the certification, according to Sheriff Steve Smith.
You never know when we could use it here, Smith said. He will also be available to other agencies. Its not something that a lot of other departments have, so I figured it was a good investment.
This is providing a service thats probably not going to be needed very often, but when it is, its great to have it, he said.
Not just any diver can take the UCI course, though, said Murphy. It is limited to seasoned divers who have other advanced certifications, and as a former deep-sea diver for the Navy, Murphy was a perfect candidate.
From the second I started diving, I loved it, Murphy said. Ive assisted other agencies with body recovery. And I love being an investigator theres no better job in the world. I love doing what I do, so when I got the chance to incorporate the two things I love doing, I jumped at the chance.
Hes a good investigator; he always does a good job, Smith said. If deputies want to get into other fields of expertise, we encourage that. It helps build morale and helps make their job a lot more fun. Were all for that.
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The UCI course was created 25 years ago by Mike Berry, an experienced public-safety diving instructor who is coordinator of the Virginia State Police Search and Rescue Dive Team. There are just four UCI instructors in the world two in Virginia, one in Louisiana and one in California.
In their training, UCI investigators first begin their searches at the waters edge by interviewing other investigators, witnesses and suspects. They also look for scratch marks, shoe or tire marks and drag marks near the source of water. When they finally enter the water, UCI divers use search patterns to look for anything as large as a car to items as small as a half-inch-long shell casing, Murphy said.
We can cover 99 percent of an area, Murphy said. It takes time and its a rigorous process, but we can find them.
But along with recovering evidence, such as a gun or knife, or a body, we train in how to preserve the evidence, so that we can still draw forensic information from it, such as hair follicles or fingerprints, he said.
According to Murphy, testing done by the FBI has shown that an item can be underwater for as long as 75 days and still be able to produce fingerprints.
In the past, when people have gone in the water and looked around, they might find a knife and they bring it up, Murphy said. Once you take it out of the water, youve taken it out of its crime scene state. By touching it, you can be destroying evidence, like fingerprints or blood.
When we do recover items from water, they are recovered in the water they were found in, he said. We use special evidence-collection containers so that, if we find a gun, that gun is stored in evidence submerged in the water it was found in. That water can have forensic information that can help us solve the crime.
While DNA typically deteriorates fairly quickly in water, it is still possible to collect hair follicles and fingerprints from items that have been underwater, Murphy said. Biological material can make the difference in criminal cases, and Murphy said UCI investigators can help solve cases that might once have gone unsolved.
Our goal for searches is to be very detailed, to notice if theres ever a dead spot that we havent looked in, Murphy said. Its very important that were detailed so we can articulate in court to a judge or jury exactly what we did that we have everything documented.
So many crimes have gone unsolved because investigations have led to the water and they havent had the proper training on how to handle that crime scene.
***
For Murphys training, he went to a four-day class in Fredericksburg, held at a deep, dark quarry. After a day in the classroom covering topics such as safety and crime scene procedures, Murphy spent three days underwater, learning how to see with his hands.
If I went into Green Mountain Lake looking for an item with my eyes, I would never find it, Murphy said. So, in the class, they put you in cold water with three feet of silt at the bottom and black out your mask so you cant see anything. Everything is done by feel.
Youd be surprised, he said. We did searches throughout the class where we were in 2-foot deep silt and you can find a little pocket knife or shell casing. Wed do that over and over and over.
Before joining the Greene County Sheriffs Office three years ago, Murphy spent seven years at the Staunton Sheriffs Office. When he came to Greene and was offered the opportunity to become an investigator, Murphy said, he was excited for the chance to spend his days figuring out puzzles.
Police work in general is just something Im passionate about, Murphy said. I like serving the community and helping people. A lot of investigation is thinking thinking about how somebody did this, what I would have done in that situation which allows you to really use your head to figure things out.
In the investigations department, you have that time and ability and resources to do that, he said. Theres no better job in the world.
While the Sheriffs Office paid for the training, Murphy said he uses all of his own diving equipment which is just fine with him, he said, because he knows who takes care of it. Being able to mix his passions for investigating and diving was an opportunity he just could not pass up.
A lot of places have dive teams, but they dont have UCI-certified investigators, Murphy said. A diver can go in the water and do what you tell him to do, but a UCI investigator can go underwater and work a crime scene. Theres a big difference.
After two years of operation, the areas first long-term shelter for survivors of human trafficking is closing. According to those involved with The Arbor Charlottesville, a variety of factors led to the decision, while the scourge of human trafficking remains present in Central Virginia.
The Arbor opened in late 2014 with the mission of taking in adult female survivors of human trafficking and providing them with safe, long-term housing, specialized case management and counseling. According to Seth Wispelwey, The Arbors executive director, the program was intended to equip women not only to recover from their trauma, but to empower them to live on their own safely, autonomously and positioned for long-term flourishing.
While two women have successfully moved through the shelters programming and into stable situations, The Arbors board unanimously voted last month to dissolve the organizations nonprofit status and suspend its operations at the end of this year.
Speaking on behalf of the board, chairwoman Lisa Lorish said in an email: This decision was a very difficult one to reach for The Arbors board because all of the evidence continues to show that trafficking is a growing problem and that there is a significant need for services to assist survivors.
Wispelwey said the decision to shut down the safe house came from a mix of things the level and specificity of required staffing became unsustainable, he said, while the availability of affordable housing in the city proved to be limited.
On top of that, shelters for human-trafficking victims are still new concepts; The Arbors mission had the organization steering into relatively unchartered waters.
This is resource-intensive work and there are no national standards for it, Wispelwey said. The Arbor as a mission and organization is at the prow of this ship that a lot of people around the country are figuring out in real time, and its urgently necessary work.
But sometimes when youre at the prow of a ship, you get splashed with some iced water, he said.
When The Arbor was first being developed, a needs-based assessment of the region led the organization to focus on aiding foreign-born Latinas who had survived human trafficking. Not long after opening, however, The Arbor began taking in a variety of clients based on a hefty influx of referrals. Wispelwey said that as recently as this fall, hes received more than a handful of calls about referrals from people within the Charlottesville area.
Theres such a great need, and The Arbor opened up with a specific purpose in mind but as soon as they opened up, because there are so few beds specifically dedicated to this, the calls came in flying, Wispelwey said. So [of course], the original staff and founders said yes.
Getting away from that core mission, while well intentioned, had an inverse effect on the organizations long-term development strategy. The Arbor ran into further issues when it came to housing as part of the road map to recovery, the shelter aimed to find affordable housing for its clients once they were able to leave the safe house. But affordable housing can be difficult to come by in the Charlottesville area.
Nonetheless, The Arbors two years of operation proved fruitful. Of the five women who came through The Arbors doors, two have successfully graduated from the program.
Wispelwey said he can now pay forward lessons learned from The Arbors pioneering mission to a broader stage. Hes been on conference calls with similar entities around the country to develop national standards for aftercare services programs and intends to publish a resource document of what weve learned, what our experience was and strong recommendations for anyone who wants to pick up the baton and carry this work forward in an effective, dynamic and sustainable way.
Still, the dissolution of The Arbor limits the resources available to human-trafficking survivors in the region. In the past 20 years, the Albemarle County Police Department has made 54 arrests in which human-trafficking charges were placed.
Jerry Schenk, a detective in the departments special victims unit, has worked with victims of human trafficking firsthand, and said he was saddened to hear of The Arbors closure.
Over the past couple of years, I have met and gotten to know some of the staff there and have been encouraged by their passion for people and dedication to the victims healing process, Schenk said. The Arbor and its staff will truly be a missed resource in the area.
Albemarles commonwealths attorney, Robert Tracci, said his office will continue to aggressively prosecute human traffickers. Theres already at least one case of human trafficking on his plate in June, a grand jury indicted 33-year-old Quincy M. Edwards on 10 charges of commercial sex trafficking, alleging that Edwards was involved with a high-level prostitution operation in the county. That case is set to go to trial in March.
Providing shelter and counseling to these survivors is essential to their physical and emotional recovery, Tracci said in an email. I share The Arbors hope that its work over the last two years will promote additional efforts to support survivors of human trafficking in the Albemarle-Charlottesville community.
After The Arbor officially shutters at the end of the year, it will donate any remaining funds to Thistle Farms in Nashville, Tennessee, a pioneering organization in this field that operates a residential program and provides advocacy services for women healing from prostitution, trafficking and addiction, according to Lorish.
Updated at 8:20 p.m.
A letter signed by 469 students, staff and faculty at the University of Virginia is asking administrators to stop quoting founder Thomas Jefferson in university-wide emails.
The letter came in response to an email, sent by university President Teresa A. Sullivan, the day after the election. Sullivan asked students who were upset by the result not to become cynical about Americas democratic system, and instead to affect change.
By coincidence, on this exact day 191 years ago November 9, 1825, in the first year of classes at UVa Thomas Jefferson wrote to a friend that University of Virginia students are not of ordinary significance only: they are exactly the persons who are to succeed to the government of our country, and to rule its future enmities, its friendships and fortunes, Sullivan wrote. I encourage todays UVa students to embrace that responsibility.
The petition to Sullivan which The Cavalier Daily reports originated in the psychology department says members of the community are disappointed in the use of Thomas Jefferson as a moral compass.
The letter recounts Jeffersons involvement in the universitys racist history Jefferson and many faculty members owned slaves in the early years of UVas existence and cites instances in which Jefferson reaffirmed his view that blacks are inferior to the whites in the endowments of body and mind.
Although the letter acknowledges Jeffersons importance and role in UVa tradition, the writers ask Sullivan to reconsider quoting him in emails.
For many of us, the inclusion of Jefferson quotations in these e-mails undermines the message of unity, equality, and civility that you are attempting to convey, the letter reads.
In a response sent out Monday afternoon, Sullivan said she agreed with the idea conveyed by Jefferson in that particular quote the idea that UVa students would go on to lead our Republic, she wrote.
Quoting Jefferson (or any historical figure) does not imply an endorsement of all the social structures and beliefs of his time, such as slavery and the exclusion of women and people of color from the University, reads Sullivans statement.
Students at a Board of Visitors protest Friday who were there mainly to demand protection for undocumented students and workers also were upset about the universitys valorization of Jefferson.
Among their list of demands was that the university stop idolizing slave owners. Later, after the group was asked to leave the Rotunda, third-year student Maria Rincon told the crowd that Sullivans use of a Jefferson quote had the opposite of the intended effect.
Quoting a racist rapist isnt going to make me feel better, Rincon said.
Using Jefferson quotes in university-wide communications, at the start of ceremonies, at meetings of the Board of Visitors is a tradition at UVa. People on different sides of a debate at UVa often will both mine quotes from Jeffersons writings to support their points of view.
Sullivan said the ideals of Jefferson live on, even as the university has evolved to include women, gays and people of all religious persuasions and ethnic groups.
All of them belong at todays UVa, whose founders most influential and most quoted words were all men are created equal, reads Sullivans statement. Those words were inherently contradictory in an era of slavery, but because of their power, they became the fundamental expression of a more genuine equality today.
Peter S. Onuf, Thomas Jefferson Memorial Foundation Professor in the department of history, said he doesnt endorse the letter.
We need to engage with Jefferson, not to pretend that this complex, deeply flawed figure did not exist or has nothing to say to us, Onuf said.
Pakistan is turning them back. Thousands who spent their life savings on a bid to resettle in Europe are being told it's time to head home. Inside Afghanistan, tens of thousands have become internally displaced in recent months as fighting between the Taliban and government security forces rages in several provinces. The refugee crisis could reach unprecedented numbers, with as many as 1.5 million returning home, many involuntarily, by the end of the year, according to humanitarian organizations.
Yet, there is no plan to adequately address this humanitarian emergency. Its scale and the international community's dismissive attitude toward the plight of vulnerable Afghans is shameful. Pakistan, home to 1.3 million registered Afghan refugees and some 700,000 undocumented Afghans, has begun to crack down on those refugees living in the country without permission. By the end of this year, as many as 360,000 could be forced to return to Afghanistan, if current rates hold, according to the United Nations refugee agency. This year's number of returnees is about four times higher than last year's.
Among those caught in Pakistan's toughening stance is Sharbat Gula, the subject of a famous photo that was published on a cover of National Geographic magazine in 1985. That photo was taken at a refugee camp in Pakistan when she was about 12. Ms. Gula, now in her 40s, was recently arrested and deported back to Afghanistan because she had been living in Pakistan without legitimate papers.
As Afghans become ever more hopeless about the future of their country, a rising number have set out on long and perilous journeys to Europe. Last year, 213,000 Afghans made it to Europe, where leaders have been grappling with the even larger influx of Syrians. While Syrians are not being forced to return home, European leaders last month struck a deal with the government of Afghanistan to establish a mechanism for the return of tens of thousands of Afghans who have failed to get asylum or legal residency in Europe. Under the deal, the Afghan government agreed to accept even citizens who fear for their safety if they were to return home.
Those who go back home, often having spent all their money on smugglers, face grinding poverty and violence. For many, the only option is to pitch a tent in one of the country's bulging and poorly serviced refugee camps.
The United Nations refugee agency has been making desperate pleas to donors for more assistance as winter approaches. Last month, it said it needed $181 million to cover basic operations in the months ahead. Fulfilling that need immediately is the least the international community can do. Beyond that, it will need to rethink its long-term approach to Afghan refugees and how to resettle more abroad in the years ahead.
The New York Times
Where to start?
News that the University of Virginia Student Council is taking special steps to give students a safe space for processing post-election emotions prompts a variety of responses.
Lets start where some of the students surely are starting: with a reported increase in hate crimes this fall.
Some of the despicable and cowardly acts include the word terrorist being written across the wall near a room occupied by two Muslim students, while a star with the word Juden an apparent reference to the Holocaust was spray-painted on the side of a building in an apartment complex near the university.
It is suspected that the hateful rhetoric spewed forth in the presidential campaign also helped spur the hateful vandalism.
When even on-duty police officers mock and taunt students who are protesting for better protection against hate crimes as allegedly happened at UVa on Tuesday no wonder students feel the need for a safe space.
The election results might liberate even more violence against minorities immigrants, LGBT people, those with disabilities, women anyone who has felt disparaged by the language of this election, according to the Student Council statement.
With the aid of Dean of Libraries John Unsworth, the Student Council therefore set up the auditorium in the Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library as a place where students experiencing such a sense of threat could congregate to talk about their feelings and experiences.
It is worth saying here, loudly and clearly, that all spaces should be safe spaces for expression especially at a university, where the pursuit of knowledge, as well as of subjective truth, should be encouraged.
That includes minority viewpoints of all types and all political persuasions.
But at this moment in time, those who are feeling threatened are students who hold liberal viewpoints. If it takes a safe room at a library to ensure that they feel safe in expressing their opinions, then so be it.
The other beneficial aspect of the safe-room concept is that it gives students a chance to vent emotions that otherwise might erupt into more harmful behaviors. Weve seen protests, vandalisms and arrests elsewhere following the election; far better to talk through any feelings of fear, dismay or confusion than to act on them inappropriately (as the hate-inspired vandals did).
A letter from Student Council wisely addressed the mental health aspect of dealing with such feelings, which blindsided many Americans, young and old, who did not see the election results coming.
To those struggling, please reach out for support, the letter said. It is okay to feel sad, angry, frustrated, scared.
It is truly unfortunate that the perceived need exists for a safe space that expressions of hatred have intimidated some people into feeling unsafe to express their own opinions in the public forum. Until we can solve that larger problem, the immediate solution created by the council is a smart response.
While Cyrus Mistry was removed as the chairman of the Tata Sons, he continues to remain chairman in several listed Tata group firms.
Mumbai: The capital market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) is closely monitoring the current feud between Tata Sons and Cyrus Mistry with both the camp fighting it out in the open to wrest the management control of listed Tata group firms.
While Cyrus Mistry was removed as the chairman of the Tata Sons, he continues to remain chairman in several listed Tata group firms.
According to sources familiar with the development, the regulator is more concerned with the protection of the interest of public shareholders and alleged violations of corporate governance norms. The regulator is keeping a close tab on the developments happening at the board level as well as at the extraordinary meeting of shareholders convened by Tata Sons seeking the removal of Mr Mistry from the board.
Sebi has also received representations from several institutional investors, investors associations and corporate governance firms. Last week, TCS ousted Mr Mistry as chairman and appointed Ishaat Hussain in his place.
However, Mistrys camp retorted saying that the due process of law wasnt followed while removing and appointing a new chairman. Additionally, Tata Sons had issued a notice for convening an extraordinary meeting of shareholders of Tata Steel and Tata Motors for the removal of Mr Mistry and Nusli N Wadia from the board of the respective firms.
The ongoing tussle gained further momentum after a section of the independent directors of Indian Hotels and Tata Chemical affirmed their faith in the leadership of Mr Mistry and the current management team.
The real issue is of allegations and counter allegations, questions on governance, independence and so on. All issues must be clarified by Tata, as the investors, stakeholders and regulators need to know the truth. Not only this, the reputation of Tata brand is at stake now. And they are duty bound to their stakeholders to bring the facts out so as to minimise damage, said J.N. Gupta, MD at Stakeholders Empowerment Services, a corporate governance firm.
Tata Motors posts Rs 848cr In second quarter Profits
Tata Motors on Monday reported consolidate profit after tax of Rs 848 crore for the September quarter, riding on robust sales of its British arm Jaguar Land Rover across various overseas markets.
It had posted a consolidated loss after tax of Rs 1,740 crore in the July-September period of last fiscal, Tata Motors said in a statement.
Consolidated net revenue in the second quarter of 2016-17 was up 6.94 per cent at Rs 67,000 crore, as against Rs 62,647 crore in the year-ago period.
JLR posted strong sales in all the regions, the company said. On standalone basis, Tata Motors net loss widened to Rs 631 crore for the quarter under review, compared to Rs 289 crore in the year-ago period. Standalone net sales were at Rs 11,406 crore as against Rs 11,794 crore.
New Delhi: As banks struggle to swap banned currency notes, Kerala today demanded bank status for the state treasury and primary cooperatives and said the sudden demonetisation move causing hardship to public could have been avoided by giving advance notice.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his Finance Minister TM Thomas Issac met Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley to highlight the hardship caused by the November 8 decision to withdraw old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes.
"We have demanded that state's treasury should be given the status of banks. As also, for Kerala, the 3,000 primary cooperatives (be given bank status)," Issac said after the meeting.
Such a status, he said, has already been given to district banks. "Without similar status to primary cooperatives, the situation in Kerala cannot be resolved," he added.
Stating that demonetistaion will help get rid of fake notes and control black money, he said black money kept in cash is only about 20 per cent or so of the whole illicit wealth in the country.
"But our position has been, this could have been done without creating so much trouble for the people and the economy," he said. He said if an advance warning that at some particular date in future the demonetisation will take place, could have reaped the same impact to curb black money with some few more arrangements.
"That would have been much better." Elaborating on measures that can control blackmoney, he said know-your-customer or KYC norms should be strengthened and land registration norms tightened.
He said after giving timelines for these, it would have helped reap similar benefits.
In a letter to Indian Banks' Association (IBA), All India Bank Officers' Association (AIBOA) and All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA) said the decision to withdraw the high-value notes was taken without proper planning or preparation.
Vadodara - Two leading bank unions today criticised the government over demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, saying the move has led to "financial chaos" across the country.
In a letter to Indian Banks' Association (IBA), All India Bank Officers' Association (AIBOA) and All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA) said the decision to withdraw the high-value notes was taken without proper planning or preparation.
They also highlighted heavy work pressure on employees and officers at bank branches in the wake of demonetisation which has led to customers rushing to exchange the now defunct notes.
"Chaotic situation is prevailing at the bank branches and this is unbearable for both customers as well as bank employees and officers," S Nagarajan, General Secretary of AIBOA, and C H Venkatachalam, his counterpart at AIBEA, said in the letter to IBA, the apex body of bank managements.
There is a huge shortage of Rs 100 notes which are now in great demand for routine needs, while most customers are not willing to accept the new Rs 2,000 bill, they said.
"The Centre and the Reserve Bank must be fully aware that already there is a huge gap between the indent and supply of Rs 100 notes.
"For example, in 2015-16, as against the indent of 535 crore pieces of Rs 100 notes, the supply received was only to the tune of 490 crore pieces," according to the letter.
"One cannot understand the reason behind banning the existing Rs 500 notes and not providing new supply of Rs 500 notes in time," it added.
Most of the 2.20 lakh ATMs across the country are closed or partly functional. This has put additional pressure on the staff and customers are compelled to visit branches to withdraw cash from their accounts, the two unions said. Nagarajan and Venkatachalam requested the IBA to ensure the RBI supplies adequate cash in denominations of Rs 100 and new Rs 500 notes to ease pressure on banks and provide relief to customers.
BEIJING: China's second richest man has been moved by the plight of a young kid - his look-alike - and has decided to financially support the eight-year-old's studies.
Jack Ma, founder of e-commerce giant Alibaba, himself was an English translator before he shot to fame with the company that placed him among the richest persons on the planet.
His was a quintessential rags-to-riches story. Ma was moved by the plight of Fan Xiaoqin, or "mini Jack Ma", who lives in Yongfeng County in east China's Jiangxi Province. The kid's photo became an instant hit on Internet with netizens comparing him to the billionaire businessman.
The child's family circumstances are unfortunate as his mother suffers from poliomyelitis (polio), his father a missing leg and his grandma from Alzheimer's disease.
Last year, a villager posted a video of "mini Jack Ma" online and the Internet exploded in remarks over how similar the boy looked to Ma.
With the coming of double-eleven (11/11 Singles Day) sales of Alibaba, "mini Jack Ma" won hearts on the Internet once again, and netizens urged Ma to support the kid, given his family circumstances, state-run People's Daily reported.
The buzz caught Ma's attention and he saw the similarities between himself and the boy. He later announced to financially support the kid until he graduates from university.
Foreign direct investment (FDI) into the country grew by over 30 per cent to USD 21.62 billion during the first half of 2016-17.
New Delhi: Export growth of 4.62 per cent in September was a "very significant development", bringing hope to exporters who are battling depressed demand globally, Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said today.
Arresting 2-month fall, exports grew by 4.62 per cent to USD 22.9 billion in September riding on the sectors such as engineering and gems and jewellery. "So there is hope, there is definitely prospect for our exporters who are struggling and also performing in a very difficult situation," Sitharaman said at the inauguration ceremony of the India International Trade Fair (IITF).
Foreign direct investment (FDI) into the country grew by over 30 per cent to USD 21.62 billion during the first half of 2016-17 on account of government's policies, reinforcing India's image of a "shining star", she said.
"Because of the policies of this government, very clear and policy driven, not discretion driven policy of the government, the FDI has improved, the flow of capital into the country has improved," she said.
"India has clearly sustained its image in the last 2.5 years as a shining star, is performing and showing the growth which is required and actually proving as an the engine of the global growth itself," Sitharaman added.
She said there will be a lot of successful economic activity during the IITF, being held here from November 14-27. Commerce Secretary Rita Teoatia said the fair is designed to fuel trade, foster investments and incubate joint ventures in technology intensive sectors as well as to forge new industry-academia collaborations and partnerships.
Mumbai: Let's accept it. All of us, at some point during our childhood, have been tough on our teachers in school, for which we have been equally punished. Today, as we celebrate Children's Day, Alia Bhatt recalled a cute incident from her childhood.
Speaking at an event on November 14, the actress took a trip down her memory lane and recalled how she was once punished to clean the desk for a week for a mischievous act.
"I was given a punishment to clean the desk for one week. What I did waswhich one shouldn't do but I used to go to school and sleep in the bathroom. So one day the teacher caught me sleeping in the bathroom. She went to check why is this girl missing. Then I had to wipe the desk for a week. Very bad thing to do. So please don't sleep in class, sleep at home," Alia Bhatt said.
Well, we absolutely relate with you, Alia and we are sure, some of you, at this point must be having a "Been there, done that" moment, no?
Still from the video.
Mumbai: In case recently you walk into a convenient store and are startled to find people posing as mannequins, dont be alarmed. Nothings wrong with them. You just walked into a stage plan where everyone is pretending like they are made of plastic. Why, you ask? Well, because they are performing their best for the mannequin challenge which has taken over internet.
The internet is flooded with videos of people pretending to be mannequins. The challenge basically is about you, along or with a group of friends, sitting, standing or posing without flinching or moving a single part of your body. No, even the eye roll doesnt count.
So far we have seen some of the amazing mannequin challenge videos featuring Michelle Obama with LeBron James and Cleveland cavaliers, Beyonce, Kevin Hart, Paul McCartney, Blac Chyna, and now, Bollywood star Varun Dhawan has also joined the bandwagon!
The actor celebrated Childrens Day in a very happening way by taking up the mannequin challenge. Here's the video:
Completed the #mannequinchallenge with all these little ones on #childrensday. Happy children's day to you all . pic.twitter.com/iKLjWO65vh Varun Dhawan (@Varun_dvn) November 14, 2016
Meanwhile, here are some of the best mannequin challenge videos!
A video posted by kellyrowland (@kellyrowland) on Nov 7, 2016 at 9:13am PST
Who has heard of the #mannequinchallenge ? Grab some friends this week and create your own version! A video posted by Zach King (@zachking) on Nov 5, 2016 at 8:02am PDT
#MannequinChallenge complete @wayne215 @justtrain1 @cbuys6 @william_lam__ @korean_dinosaur #movewithhart #HustleHart A video posted by Kevin Hart (@kevinhart4real) on Nov 4, 2016 at 5:35pm PDT
That James is a real crowd pleaser. #MannequinChallenge pic.twitter.com/EwqD2z5xhy The Late Late Show (@latelateshow) November 8, 2016
Soooo. This happened! Last night at @chefmichaelmina test kitchen for #internationalsmoke and they're on to the next! @ayeshacurry congrats! #mannequinchallenge A video posted by Wardell Curry (@stephencurry30) on Nov 6, 2016 at 1:28am PST
Dream Team #mannequinchallenge A video posted by Blac Chyna (@blacchyna) on Nov 10, 2016 at 2:50pm PST
Eddie Redmayne in a still from 'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them'.
Mumbai: Actor Eddie Redmayne said he had to explain to custom officers why he was carrying a wand in his luggage.
The 'Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them' star was forced to explain to border officers why he was carrying a "really sharp, scary object" in his luggage, which turned out to be the prop from the fantasy film, reported Contactmusic.
"I brought it because I felt like it would be reassuring to have Newt's wand. But then we were coming through customs and I suddenly realise that a wand looks like a really sharp, scary object and then to try and explain it to a customs person, I was like, 'Have you seen the ... No?' That was a bit disastrous'," he said.
And the 34-year-old actor now feels he cannot use a briefcase in real life as he doesn't want people to think he is copying his character, magizoologist Newt Scamander.
All eyes seem to be on Tollywood now, especially after the I-T raid on Baahubali filmmakers. Many believe that real estate businessmen, politicians and the likes who have unaccounted cash flow have been routing/pumping money into the industry. Suddenly, theres a spurt of businessmen-turning-film producers. However, Tollywood is tight-lipped over this issue.
Raising his voice against the I-T raids, filmmaker Thamma Reddy Bharadwaj, says, There are several big fish in the country, but targeting the film industry each time is not fair. When a film collects high revenues, the government hasnt bothered to ask the producers how they collected so much money. And after a year or so, they raid their offices.
Brag to end
Off the record, sources admit that the Baahubali team was caught in the tax storm after reports on the roaring business done by part 2 in terms of music rights, distribution rights etc. came out. It was already in the news that Baahubali part 1 had made a whopping Rs 650-crore-plus business!
So, will filmmakers stop bragging about their collections henceforth? Earlier, the biggest achievement of a movie was Rs 100 days, then it became silver jubilee and so on. These days, the day one reports itself are Rs 30-crore opening day collection, Rs 45 crore weekend collection...
Actors also allegedly accept a part of the payment in cash and the remaining in cheque, when they walk the ramp for designers. (Photo: Tamannaah at Lakme Fashion Week)
Unimaginable amounts are rumoured as top actors remuneration as in Rs 9 crore for Pawan Kalyan and Rs 12 crore for Mahesh Babu. Every actor seems to be earning in crores.
Black and white
Apparently, only 30-40 per cent of the remuneration is in cheque or wire transfers that are accountable an arrangement that suits both the actors and producers. The rest is given as cash. Some actresses prefer gold bars, said a source.
For a very long time, land has been the most popular payment to actors. Big actors accept land as a major portion of their pay. Depending on the star and their bankability, the value of the land becomes higher. Several actors are known to own vast lands not just in the city but in the surrounding areas as well most of it are their remuneration. Houses, apartments and other properties are also common modes of payment, reveals a source. Its perhaps easy to register land than stashing money!
Precious pay
Gold biscuits, silver bars and other expensive commodities like luxury vehicles are another form of remuneration. Gold and diamonds are generally a favourite with actresses. An actors sister has suddenly started a jewellery line; gold bars are perhaps used here!
Afterthought
In the current scenario, how will producers account for the remuneration paid to actors and how do the latter do it? Film-makers hope that actors will opt for a pay cut, at least for the time being.
Bollywood not worried
I dont think the film industry will be affected in the long run. The corporate structure of transactions in Bollywood has been in place for a decade now and transactions have been happening via cheques for a long time.- Bejoy Nambiar, director
Not every film earns Rs 100 cr and beyond. If a film earns Rs 100 cr, it is the net collection. It is just 50 per cent of the total cost earned by the producers and filmmakers. One should also evaluate the production cost of the film. Its a silly, age-old notion that there is a lot of cash in the film industry. We get our money from studios, and whether that is abroad or home-grown, the transactions are done via cheques. The rest of our funds come from multiplexes and single screen theatres.- Kunal Kohli, director and producer
With inputs from Suresh Kavirayani and Rohit Bhatnagar
It was earlier reported that actress Raashi Khanna is being bombarded with offers in Kollywood since she started shooting for her first film with Siddharth. And it seems shes keen to start her new innings properly.
She started off thinking it may not be tough to mouth the dialogues because she is familiar with Tamil movies and listens to songs as well. But reality struck her on the sets of the film, shares a source. As someone who puts in hard work whenever needed, Raashi has now decided to prepare herself.
She has hired a tutor to teach her the language and has been learning the nuances from him for a while now. With two films up her sleeve already, she is trying to put in maximum effort, the source adds.
Actress Ritika Singh made a stellar entry into cinema with the Tamil film, Irudhi Suttru (Saala Khadoos in Hindi). Now, shes set to make her foray into Tollywood with Guru, the Telugu remake of the film, starring Venkatesh. Sources say she will be playing a Pawan Kalyan fan in the film.
Ritika was seen as a fan of Dhanush in the original. But this time, shes going to appeal to the Telugu sensibilities by playing a hardcore fan of Pawan Kalyan. In fact, the film will feature a scene with the actors cut out in it," shares a source. The film has been primarily shot in Visakhapatnam, with Sudha Kongara Prasad reprising her role as director.
Vamsi Krishna bagged his first film quite effortlessly. When I was travelling on a flight, director Gautam Menon was seated next to me. He saw me and asked about my interest in films, recalls Vamsi.
Realising it was a chance that would not come to many, he immediately said yes to Menon. That was in the year 2003 when Gautam made the film Gharshana with Venkatesh. Vamsi Krishna played one of the cops in the film.
Born and brought up in Visakhapatnam, Vamsi Krishna completed his graduation from Gitam and went to the UK for his MBA. Interestingly, his parents are doctors as are all his cousins and uncles.
Nearly ten people in my family are doctors, but I am the only one who chose acting as a career, says Vamsi. After his MBA, he wanted to start his own business, but at that time, this film came along.
After my debut film, I worked really hard and learnt that its not easy to get good roles when you dont have any backing, he says. But I was confident that I would get through one day with my hard work and talent, says Vamsi.
Though he has acted in nearly 25 films in the last 12 years, he got noticed only in Darling and most of Trivikrams films. Even though he played one of the leads in Tejas 2006 film Oka Vichitram, it failed at the box-office. He then tried his luck in the Tamil movie Thadaiyara Thaakka a few years back. I got good roles in Tamil and now I am playing the main villain in many Tamil films, says Vamsi who says he prefers keeping a low-profile in the industry.
I dont have friends in the industry and dont party too. After my work is done, I just go home. If there is no work, I go to the gym, he says. He admits, I am still waiting for a good break in Telugu, though I am doing small roles here.
But it is the Tamil industry that is offering good roles to Vamsi, as he has signed nearly a dozen Tamil films. I also signed a Kannada film with Shivaraj Kumar where I am playing a villain, he says.
After his debut film, Vamsi recalls that his friends discouraged him by telling him that the film industry would never encourage an outsider like him. But I wanted to prove them wrong. I struggled initially like many others as I didnt get good pay, but I had to survive here. My parents helped me financially at that time and luckily they encouraged me when I chose acting as my profession, says Vamsi.
A lack of awareness and finances are said to be factors responsible for the same.
Chennai: India is home to 12 million blind people, of whom a majority suffer from diabetic retinopathy.
Of the 12 million blind Indians, a large portion of them are in Tamil Nadu. A lack of awareness and finances are said to be factors responsible for the same.
With this years World Diabetes Day focusing on the theme Eyes on diabetes, doctors are working towards creating awareness on the fact that ones eyes can also be affected by diabetes.
According to medical statistics, after seven years of being diagnosed with diabetes, 50 per cent will definitely develop diabetic retinopathy, while 85 per cent will get the condition after 15 years.
The statistics indicate the importance of regular check-ups in order to get right medication at the right time. A significant section of society is unaware of the implications of diabetic retinopathy at an early stage in their life.
People do not go to the doctor early enough. At the early stage, diabetic retinopathy does not cause blindness. However, in the advanced phase, when a person experiences a defective vision, it will be too late for the patient to regain that lost vision, said Dr Lionel Raj, Head, Medical Services, Dr Agarwals Foundation, Tirunelveli.
I had trouble with my vision a little after I was detected with diabetes. Along with a complete health check-up each year, I check my eyes, said 61-year-old J. John, a diabetic.
Creating awareness on the link is not the only solution. Diabetes is a very expensive disease and the government should provide free health care facilities to the poor in order to bring down the burden, he said.
According to Prof Amar Agarwal, CMD, Dr Agarwals Group of Eye Hospitals, nearly 80 per cent of blindness is avoidable if treated in time. Ignorance about the disease is the reason why Tamil Nadu and the country as a whole has such a high number of blind people, he said.
According to city resident Sebastian Giorgi, the Venice's population drops by about 1,000 per year. (Photo: Pixabay)
Dozens of Venetians waved maroon and yellow flags and carried empty suitcases on Saturday during a symbolic demonstration to highlight an exodus of residents from the lagoon city, where tourist hordes can make everyday life challenging.
Images of narrow Venetian alleys clogged with visitors during the All Saints holiday weekend filled Italian papers last week, rekindling a debate about limiting access to the city through a booking system.
Venetians have long complained that food shopping and other daily errands have become increasingly tricky as the city focuses on meeting the needs of the more than 20 million tourists who are estimated to visit it every year.
"This is not a protest against tourism, it's a protest against the policies that the city has followed in the last 40 years," Venetian resident Andrea Castelli said.
"We don't want to leave the city, we are Venetian, we want to live here so we are asking the City of Venice to help us to stay in Venice," he added.
Donning a red cloak lined with ermine fur and a brocade cap Castelli dressed up as the Doge, the historic leader of the Republic of Venice.
After leading a procession of people carrying a giant red cardboard suitcase and wheeling their own bags, the Doge climbed onto a gondola and symbolically left the city.
According to city resident Sebastian Giorgi, the city's population drops by about 1,000 per year.
Protesters hung a banner that read "#Venexodus" on the Rialto bridge and glued to their trolleys signs that said 'Without Venetians? Don't call me Venice anymore."
An electronic display in a pharmacy's shop window showed the number of residents at 54,926. Next to it, a sign said Venice had a population of 174,808 in 1951 which had fallen to 60,704 by March 2008.
As well as the congestion caused by tourists, Venetians blame short-term tourist rentals for inflating housing costs.
"Venice is a fragile city, fragile structurally and physically but also when it comes to its social fabric," resident Federico Permutti said.
"If you add to that the lack of housing for locals and a wild proliferation of accommodation offered to tourists, you can understand that the situation is unbearable for those who live here."
A man in the US has set a new Guinness World Record for the largest collection of fossilised faeces after amassing around 1,277 pieces of dinosaur excreta from nine countries. George Frandsen, now 36, has been collecting these unusual specimens way back when he was a college student of palaeontology.
He has been able to amass poop from as many as 15 states in the US and eight different countries. His largest piece of coprolite, also known as fossilised faeces, weighs about 1.92 kg. It was produced by an ancient crocodilian species and was discovered in South Carolina.
Each coprolite from Frandsens collection was inspected by a professional palaeontologist and was documented at the South Florida Museum in the US, according to reports. Its entry in the Guinness World Records will appear in the 2017 edition.
New Delhi/Islamabad: Continuing the blame game, India and Pakistan on Wednesday summoned Deputy High Commissioners of each other to express concern over ceasefire violations even as India protested the manner in which the information of eight of its officials in Islamabad was made public, thereby, endangering their security and safety.
The Ministry summoned the Deputy High Commissioner of Pakistan and conveyed the strong concern of the Government of India on the continued violation of ceasefire along the International Border and the Line of Control by Pakistan, MEA Spokesperson Vikas Swarup said in New Delhi.
"Despite calls for restraint, Pakistan forces have committed 16 ceasefire violations since 3 November 2016 alone. As a result, there have been three fatal casualties during this period among Indian security forces.
"The Government conveyed that such loss of life is unacceptable and is strongly protested. In addition, the injuries to civilians during the shelling by Pakistan forces are deplorable and strongly condemned," he said.
Swarup said India has also protested the manner in which the photographs of eight officials of the High Commission of India in Islamabad were prominently displayed in newspapers in the wake of factually incorrect allegations by Pakistan government, and conveyed that this is against basic norms of diplomatic practice and courtesy, besides having the potential to endanger their security and safety.
"It is expected that the Pakistan side will desist from such actions in the future and will ensure the safety and security of all members of the High Commission of India in Islamabad and their families," Swarup added.
Earlier, in Islamabad, Foreign Office (FO) said Director General (South Asia & SAARC) Mohammad Faisal summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner J P Singh to "strongly condemn the unprovoked ceasefire violations on November 8 by the Indian Forces on the Line of Control (LoC) in Khuirata and Battal sectors".
This is the sixth time in over two weeks that the Indian Deputy High Commissioner was summoned to the FO.
The FO said the violation by India resulted in the death of four civilians, including a woman and a 10-year-old girl, besides causing injuries to seven others.
On his part, Singh protested against the unprovoked firing from Pakistani Rangers, saying it was primarily to give cover to infiltrators.
He also said casualties on the Indian side include both civilians and security forces in the ceasefire violations by the Pakistan.
New Delhi: The Finance Ministry on Monday announced that ATMs across the country will start dispensing higher denomination currency, including the new Rs 2,000 note, from either today or tomorrow.
The focus of the Govt is to activate all channels whereby cash is dispensed to the public, said Shaktikanta Das, Economic Affairs Secretary, while addressing a press conference in the national capital.
To ease the problems of the common man, the government also announced that a large number of micro-ATMs will be deployed across the country to cater to the millions lining up for cash. Das said that higher cash withdrawal limit of Rs 2,500 would only be for recalibrated ATMs.
"Number of recalibrated ATMs will be enhanced within the next few days, a task force is being set up under the Deputy RBI Governor," Das said. RBI has informed enough cash is available in system, there is no need for panic; situation will ease in coming days, he added.
He announced that banking correspondents will be now allowed to withdraw cash multiple times as opposed to only once a day earlier. Banks will also be increasing the cash holding limit of banking correspondents to Rs 50,000.
Patna: A day ahead of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's 'Lok Samvad' to seek suggestions on liquor law, BJP today aired its 'objections' to some of the "draconian" and "Talibani" provisions of the law.
"After the Patna High court dismissed the old and draconian liquor law (Bihar Excise (Amendment) Act, 2016), the Bihar government has sought suggestions from public to bring amendments to the new liquor law (Bihar Prohibition & Excise Act, 2016) to stand legal scrutiny in the Supreme Court," senior Bihar BJP leader Sushil Kumar Modi said in a statement.
BJP, the principal opposition, has been in support of the liquor law from day one but it was opposed to some of the draconian and 'Talibani' provisions of the law, Sushil Modi, the former Deputy Chief Minister said.
The party has already given its suggestions in both the houses of state legislature for bringing amendments into the provisions of the existing liquor, he said.
The provisions on which the party has severe objections included imposition of collective fine, Sushil Modi said while suggesting that action must be taken against the erring person but the entire village cannot be held guilty for the fault committed by some.
Similarly, the quantum of punishment must be in conformity with the crime, he said adding that liquor law has provisions which are even harsher than the crime for murder and rape.
Sending entire family to the jail in the event of recovery of an empty bottle besides seizure of the premises for recovery of a liquor bottle are harsher provisions which must be done away with, Mr Modi said.
The BJP leader asked when there is a prohibition in the state, what is the point in exporting liquor to other states, and suggested the state government should come out with provisions to compensate those who invested in the liquor industry as per the government's policy.
"Although, the government has not invited BJP to the Lok Samvad programme but despite this, we are reiterating our suggestions through media," Mr Modi said.
New Delhi: Claiming that the Opposition was trying to sabotage the good work done by the government, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday asked BJP Parliamentarians not to buckle under pressure from the Opposition.
Stating that the opposition was hard at work to sabotage the process of demonetisation, the Prime Minister assured that the nation has welcomed the step.
He also told the lawmakers that the credit for demonetisation wouldnt rest with him alone, but would go to all parties which stood with government.
The Prime Minister's assertion comes in the wake of the all out attack launched by the opposition today, as the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP) joined forces in tearing down the scheme of demonetisation.
The meet was attended by the Prime Minster, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and the BJP president Amit Shah among others.
Speaking after the meeting, Union Urban Development Minister Venkaiah Naidu said that the allegations levelled by the opposition on demonetisation issue are baseless and that the government will answer them the appropriate time.
Reiterating the governments commitment to the move, he added, "There is no chance of rethinking. Mood of the nation is in favour of Modi government. Everyone agreed that this is a historic decision. This is but a temporary pain for larger gain. In the parliament we will get to know which people are on the side of black money hoarders, he added.
Union Minister Ananth Kuamr also said that all NDA allies extended their support to the PM on the demonetisation issue during the meeting.
The saffron party believes that the demonetisation of Rs 1000/500 currency notes has generated a positive public mood but inconvenience caused to the masses, who have been queueing up for hours outside banks and ATMs for cash, has become a handy issue for the Congress, the Left, TMC, SP and BSP among others, who met leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad earlier today to discuss strategies on tackling the Centre in the Parliament.
Hyderabad: The CBI has orally asked all vigilance wings of banks to keep a tab on their staff following information that managers and other employees are conniving with black money racketeers and allowing multiple exchanges of demonetised notes against the RBI quota.
Incidents have been reported at Hyderabad and Guntur wherein multiple exchanges of Rs 4,000 is being done with different ID proofs. CBI sources said that they can book cases only if specific complaints are filed. A top CBI source said, We have learnt about bank staff, along with black money racketeers, using multiple ID proofs for mass exchanges of demonetised notes in multiple names. We havent received any specific complaint. We have asked internal vigilance wings of banks to keep tabs on the staff. Central government banks and postal department employees come under the purview of the CBI probe.
Cant track driving licence
Banks have no mechanism to check how many times a person visits as there is no link with the driving licence database of the RTA.
ED sources said, Auto-rickshaw drivers in the city are mostly off the roads. Racketeers are using them for their driving licenses by paying Rs 200 to Rs 300 each time for standing in queues for Rs 4,000. Even in rural areas, agricultural labourers are being used to change demonetised notes at banks and post offices.
In the past, the main litigant in Babri Masjid case, Hashim Ansari, had along with Akhara Parishad president Mahant Gyan Das discussed out-of-court settlement which broadly talked about the 70-acres of disputed premises accommodating both mosque and temple with a partition wall which will be 100 feet high. (Photo: file)
Faizabad/Ayodhya: A fresh proposal for settlement of Ayodhya dispute was submitted to Faizabad divisional commissioner suggesting that a temple and a mosque be built at the site.
The petition, it is claimed, has been signed by about 10,000 members from both Hindu and Muslim communities with former High Court judge Palok Basu leading the initiative.
Divisional Commissioner Surya Prakash Mishra, who is the receiver of the disputed site, said, "I received a memorandum regarding the dispute of Ayodhya and a bunch of photocopies containing some signatures. I have yet to decide what to do in this matter."
Basu said that they were hopeful that the Supreme Court will take note of it.
The petition, which has 10,502 signatures, was submitted yesterday.
"We have moved this negotiation process in the Supreme Court through the authorized person (Faizabad Divisional Commissioner). We hope that the apex court will honour the public sentiments of peace and harmony," he said, adding they have proposed that the disputed site will house both Ram temple and a mosque.
In its September 30, 2010 ruling, the Allahabad High Court had awarded two parts of the site, where the Babri Masjid once stood, to Nirmohi Akhara and 'friend' of Ram Lalla and one part to Muslims, which went to Sunni Central Waqf Board of Uttar Pradesh. Basu said their "local" effort to resolve the issue started in March 18, 2010.
In the past, the main litigant in Babri Masjid case, Hashim Ansari, had along with Akhara Parishad president Mahant Gyan Das discussed out-of-court settlement which broadly talked about the 70-acres of disputed premises accommodating both mosque and temple with a partition wall which will be 100 feet high.
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) had rejected the proposal calling it an insult to the high court. Ansari died in July this year.
The maximum number of CBI requests, around 25, is pending with the USA. But at the same time, it has executed agencys 28 LRs, which too is maximum, sources said.
New Delhi: Response to letters rogatory (LRs) or judicial requests through Interpol by the CBI, the nodal agency in the country for the purpose, is a crucial cog in its wheel when it comes to probing high-profile cases with fugitives or information about them lying in other countries. And, official sources reveal, most of those wanted by law in India seem to be headed to the USA. The country, dealing with maximum number of requests from the agency, has responded positively.
Sources said the USA tops the list of countries in terms of numbers of LRs awaiting response, despite also being the country to have responded to maximum number of requests. Some of these LRs have been pending for several years, while the reply in many others is being awaited for the last few months. The LR is a formal request issued by a competent court to a foreign court and processed by the Ministry of External Affairs on behalf of the investigative agencies to obtain data about individuals and entities.
The maximum number of CBI requests, around 25, is pending with the USA. But at the same time, it has executed agencys 28 LRs, which too is maximum, sources said. In fact, in certain cases, the response from the US has been very quick, they added. Delays in response on LRs prove to be a major stumbling block in agencys investigations in many high profile cases. The second on the list is the UAE with highest number of pending LRs. It seems to have history of sitting on the LRs, sources said. As per latest figure, the UAE has 24 LRs pending.
NIA sources revealed that they did not know of any such Mahrashtra based couple who had travelled to Iraq to join the terror organisation and that the authorities were going through all records to determine their identity. (Photo: AFP)
New Delhi: Interrogation of an ISIS supporter who fought for the terrorist organisation in Mosul has revealed the first ever confirmed presence of an Indian woman in the conflict zone.
According to a report, the new information came to light when the National Investigation Agency (NIA) interrogated Tamil Nadu resident Subahani Haja Moideen. The 31-year-old was arrested earlier this year while attempting to arrange for explosives from Sivakasi.
Moideen told the interrogators that he met an Indian couple from Maharashtra during his five-month stint in Iraqs Mosul, adding that he chanced upon them in a public space. He said he hardly saw any Indians in the war-ridden city, may be two to three.
Moideen said according to his inputs, India was not in the immediate list of the Islamic State group, also known as ISIS.
He was a low ranking cadre but says that whatever information he gathered did not suggest that the ISIS leaders had any plans for India. They were more interested in targeting western countries, the report quoted an NIA official as saying.
NIA sources revealed that they did not know of any such Mahrashtra-based couple who had travelled to Iraq to join the extremist organisation and that the authorities were going through all records to determine their identity. The authorities were also trying to determine if the couple had travelled form India directly, or made transit to Iraq through another country.
Moideen, during his interrogation revealed that he had travelled to Iraq in April 2015 but returned in September. He claimed that he came back to India because he was troubled by the amount of violence that he witnessed in Mosul. Two of his friends were charred to death in front of him after they were struck by shelling, he added.
Moideen was not under the NIA scanner before or after he came back from Mosul. He was nabbed after the authorities chanced on him during an investigation into another case, where six men owing allegiance to ISIS had plotted to kill high court judges and senior RSS leaders.
Earlier this year, 21 people from Kerala travelled to Afghanistan to join ISIS. The group included three women and six children but the whereabouts of these people are unknown.
New Delhi: In respite for the millions who are scrambling across the country to exchange their old notes and pay their utility bills, the Government on Monday announced that old Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 notes can to be used until November 24 for certain transactions.
Exemption on old series of Rs 500, 1000 notes for certain categories extended till November 24 midnight, said Shaktikanta Das, Economic Affairs Secretary.
The time limit to use old notes for paying household utility bills, fuel, taxes and fees as well as purchases from co-operative stores was set to expire on November 14 (tonight), but in a huge relief, the government has extended the deadline by ten more days.
The the government had allowed use of the old currency at government hospitals, railway ticketing, public transport, airline ticketing at airports, milk booths, crematoria/burial grounds and petrol pumps.
This list was later expanded to include payments for metro rail tickets, highway and road toll, purchase of medicines on doctor prescription from the government and private pharmacies, LPG gas cylinders, railway catering, electricity and water bills and ASI monument entry tickets.
TS Congress president Uttam Kumar Reddy is being led away by cops during a protest against demonetisation in Hyderabad on Monday. (Photo: DC)
Hyderabad: Congress workers took to the streets to protest the demonetisation of high-value currency.
TPCC president N. Uttam Kumar Reddy led the protests in the capital. Police blocked the protesters from taking out a rally from Abids and took them into custody for some time. Party workers raised slogans like Modi hatao, desh bachao and burnt his effigy.
Speaking to mediapersons at the Gandhinagar police station, Uttam Kumar Reddy accused the Prime Minister of enforcing a financial emergency in the country by implementing an unplanned decision. He said that the demonetisation of high-value notes had brought misery to the common people, especially the poor, middle-class, housewives and farmers.
New Delhi: The demonetisation woes of the common man has united Indias Opposition parties. In a major step that signalled Opposition unity, at least on this issue, the Congress and seven other Opposition parties, including West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjees Trinamul Congress, decided to corner the government in Parliaments Winter Session, that starts on Wednesday.
The leaders of the Congress, TMC, RJD, JD(U), CPI, CPI(M), JMM and YSR Congress met in the room of Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad at Parliament House on Monday evening and decided the issue would be raised on Wednesday, the first day of the session. Leading the demonetisation charge is West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, who is expected to arrive in Delhi on Tuesday, on the eve of the session, and lead a delegation to meet President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday.
On Monday, Ms Banerjee lashed out at the PM over his statement at the Ghazipur rally that the poor were enjoying a sound sleep after the demonetisation, saying it was an "insult" to ordinary people across the country. She claimed the masses had been victimised and crushed under the weight of demonetisation, while many economists were now predicting the onset of a recession.
Other Opposition leaders such as BSP chief Mayawati and AAP boss Arvind Kejriwal have also criticised the governments move and are devising their own strategies to target the Centre. BSP supremo Mayawati lashed out at PM Modi, saying the people were being forced to face burey din (bad days). Stung by Mr Modis reference to garlands of notes, Ms Mayawati unleashed a no-holds-barred attack on Monday, alleging that the PM could not tolerate the fact that a dalit ki beti (daughter of a dalit) was presented such a garland. She also called Mr Modis Ghazipur rally a flop show, claiming that the crowd was brought from Bihar. The confrontation between the Centre and the Opposition is expected to start from the first day of the session.
New Delhi/Ghazipur: Defending his governments demonetisation order, Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted on Monday that the poor in the country were supporting his move against corruption, black money and fake currency.
Admitting that it was a little harsh and that people were facing inconvenience, Mr Modi attacked the Opposition, mainly the Congress, for misleading the people and asked if corruption and dishonesty should be allowed in the country.
Scoffing at the Opposition for blaming him for the problems faced by the poor, Mr Modi said he was better aware of hardships faced by ordinary people. The PM said he knew he was up against the powerful, but vowed to continue his fight for the poor, farmers and villagers, as the Opposition parties joined forces to corner the government on the issue in the Winter Session of Parliament starting Wednesday.
Addressing the BJPs Parivartan Yatra rally in Gazipur in poll-bound Uttar Pradesh, Mr Modi said while the poor were enjoying sound sleep after the decision, the rich were running from pillar to post to buy sleeping pills.
Will fulfil Nehrus dreams, says Modi
In a dig at the Congress, the PM recalled that Congress governments had imposed the Emergency, stifling the rights of the people and the media, and banned chavanni (25 paise coins).
Under which law did they ban chavanni? ... Its another thing that they couldnt move beyond chavanni ... You took the step as per your stature, we did what matched ours, Mr Modi said.
Invoking the name of Indias first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, on his 127th birth anniversary, the PM said he had purposely chosen this date for his visit to UP to launch projects. You (Nehru) are no more, the leaders from your party and your family are levelling false allegations... still, on your birthday, I am starting work to complete your unfulfilled desire for the development of India, Mr Modi said.
He said at the rally: My decision is a little harsh. When I was young, poor people used to ask for kadak (strong) tea, but it spoils the mood of the rich.
The PM said while there was no dearth of money for development, the fact was that money was stashed away somewhere else and not where it should be.
Hyderabad: On Sunday afternoon, people gathered under the Attapur Bridge near Rajendra Nagar. They were looking for bags of abandoned cash reportedly thrown by a car driver minutes ago. As the crowd became bigger and as vehicle movement got hit, someone informed the police, and they soon reached the place. The cops dispersed the crowd. The police team also searched the area thoroughly and found nothing.
On Saturday evening, another crowd created a block on Warangal highway. A large number of people gathered near the Central Power Research Institute (CPRI) in Medipally. A police team had to be dispatched to disperse the crowd. People searched for cash bags thrown by someone from a car, but they could not find anything. Similar incidents took place in other parts of the city in the last three days after the Centre demonetised high-value currency notes. Rumours about abandoned bundles of demonetised currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 are the new headache for the police. Anonymous people are also calling police stations and emergency numbers to inform about abandoned stash. But the information always proves wrong.
In Attapur, someone standing on the bridge shouted to passersby that a man threw bags under the bridge and drove away. People then started looking for cash. The man, who spread the rumour disappeared by the time police came there, a police officer said. At Medipally, a rumour spread in a nearby village and people gathered. Seeing the crowd, motorists stopped and joined the search, said inspector K. Jaganath Reddy. The police does not know who spread the rumour. Police said that it was very easy to fool crowds as there is a notion that stash holders might abandon cash. People hope to get the abandoned cash and exchange it in bank.
Hyderabad: The steep fall in revenue earnings of the state government due to the impact of demonetisation has set alarm bells ringing in both the Telugu states.
While Telangana state government has pegged loss at over Rs 6,000 crore, AP has estimated it at over Rs 4,000 crore in the next four months.
With indications of TS governments revenues falling by a whopping 50 per cent this month alone, Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao is likely to announce some tough decisions to bail out the government from the current financial crisis.
Mr Rao has been holding meetings with senior finance officials for the past three days. He is said to be in favour of imposing drastic fund cuts for development programmes, welfare schemes, salaries and pensions.
An announcement on imposing cut in salaries for MLAs, MLCs, ministers is on the cards first before doing the same for employees to avoid criticism from TS government employees unions.
Head of a business empire and now US president: by combining these two roles, billionaire Donald Trump could face conflicts of interest of an scale unprecedented in American political history.
The Republican elected to the White House made his fortune by building a network of hotels, office towers and luxury apartment buildings as the head of the Trump Organisation.
His real estate empire is primarily located in the United States, but also extends to countries such as South Korea and Turkey. Managing political relations with such US allies while president risks creating a curious mix of competing goals.
The Trump Organisation is not publicly traded, so many of its activities are closed to scrutiny. But the US media have reported it has financial ties with people close to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who the real estate mogul praised leadership during his campaign. For the record, I have ZERO investments in Russia, Trump tweeted in July.
The potential for conflicts of interest from Trumps business activities are not limited to countries like Russia. According to the Wall Street Journal, Trump has received some $2.5 billion in loans from Deutsche Bank since 1998.
But the US regulators are in negotiations with the German bank over imposing a possibly multi-billion dollar fine for its role in the 2008 financial crisis. This raises questions about how the Trump administration will react if it inherits the case, and whether the new presidents business interests will be considered.
Accusations of conflicts of interest are not new in US politics. They tainted the administration of president George W. Bush, whose vice-president Dick Cheney, until his appointment in 2000, headed the Halliburton oil services and logistics company, which went on to win lucrative contracts in Iraq after the US invasion.
Further, heavy damage was averted as several canals were cleared as part of the Mission Kakatiya programme. (Photo: Sudhakar Reddy/DC)
Hyderabad: Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao on Monday urged the Centre to release adequate financial assistance to Telangana which had incurred heavy losses due to the unseasonal rains that occurred all over the state last September. He said the preliminary assessment done by the government had pegged the loss at over Rs 2,700 crore and a detailed assessment was being prepared which would be sent to the Centre soon.
He was interacting with a Central team, which visited the state to assess the damage caused by heavy rains by touring districts for two dyas. The Central team was headed by Union joint secretary (home), Dilip Kumar. The team visited Siddipet, Karimnagar, Sangareddy and other districts to assess damage.
Mr Rao explained informed the Central team about the heavy rains that occurred last September, which caused serious damage to crops and basic infrastructure.
The amount of rainfall that was received was about 31 cms on a particular day.
Further, heavy damage was averted as several canals were cleared as part of the Mission Kakatiya programme. Or else all canals would have breached due to the heavy inflows that they had received due to the torrential rains, Mr Rao said.
He explained governments palns of reviving about 46,000 lakes.
Mission Kakatiya had yielded good results and prevented lakes from breaching during the heavy rainfall. However, there were some lakes which were not covered under Mission Kakatiya have suffered damage which also became detrimental to the standing crops. Several roads and bridges were damaged, he added.
The CM also informed them about the damaged caused in Hyderabad due to heavy rains. He said the government had already spent about Rs 150 crore in the city for the restoration of roads, power lines and other infrastructure.
Mr Kumar said the team had personally visited the affected regions and made a preliminary assessment. He assured the CM that they would do their best to help the State. He said the team would submit a detailed report to the Centre on the matter.
Chennai: Less than a year after the floods that struck their livelihood, fishermen in the state face a similar crisis as the demonetisation move by the Union government came as a rude shock to the fishing industry.
Every day, fishermen go to the sea and get fishes worth Rs. 15 crore of business. By selling them across the coast and providing for exports, we were usually able to do a business of at least Rs. 10 crore daily. After the notes of Rs. 500 and Rs 1000 were declared non-legal tenders, the fishermen are the worst hit, said Nanjal P Ravi, of the National Union of Fishermen Association. The business is not making Rs 10 lakhs daily, leave alone Rs 10 crores, he continued.
He added that though fishermen are able to get essential commodities on credit, the business and means to livelihood has been hurt badly. There is no money for diesel, nets, no money to pay workers. Not everything can be brought by NEFT and RTGS when half the people don't have bank accounts, he added.
The crisis has led to a fall in fish prices, but the non-acceptance of Rs. 500, Rs. 1000 has reduced sales. I sell fish on Sundays and from 8 am to 11 am I usually manage to sell over 15 kg of fish. But today the sales were abysmal. I have managed to sell about 4 - 5kg of fish. People are ready to buy in exchange for old notes of Rs 500 but I am not accepting those. I have taken a hit on my earning, said K. Raji at Saidapet.
Fishermen hope that steps would be taken to mitigate the situation. The ones who buy fish from us for exports are doing so on credit. Even if they transfer money, how will all fishermen be paid without them having accounts? lamented a union member.
On Saturday evening, they consumed alcohol and magic mushrooms, which are readily available in the hills and which are said to give a high.
Kodaikanal: A night of revelry involving alcohol and magic mushrooms at a camp fire lit inside a room in a cottage in the hill station led to the death of two youths, including a college student, while three others in the group were in a critical condition in Theni hospital on Sunday morning.
A group of 12 students from Kerala were in Kodaikanal for a two-day picnic. On Saturday evening, they consumed alcohol and magic mushrooms, which are readily available in the hills and which are said to give a high.
They went to a room in the cottage later and lit up a camp fire using charcoal. Around midnight, seven of the group left to go to their individual rooms while five students slept in the room where they had lit the camp fire.
The smoke emanating from the camp fire engulfed the entire room in the night. When a few students visited the room around 5 am to wake them up, they found five of their colleagues lying unconscious on the floor.
They immediately alerted the cottage owner, the police said. With the help of the locals, the police rushed them to the government hospital in Kodaikanal. The doctors declared dead student Thomas (21) and the driver who brought them from Kerala to the hill, Jibin (26). Three other students Anil (21), Melvin (22) and Vinu (22) were rushed to the Theni Government Hospital. The condition of the three students was also critical, the police said. Their parents have also been informed.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The UDF has expressed concern over the financial emergency imposed on the country by the BJP-led government through demonetisation creating hardship for the people. Protesting against the decision, the front will observe a black day on Thursday and take out a march to the Accountant-Generals office at statue here. The UDF leaders, at a meeting held at Opposition Leader Ramesh Chennithala's official residence here on Monday, blamed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the current economic situation in the country.
The meeting decided to support the LDF government to tackle the crisis in the state and asked it to take concrete steps in that direction. The Sabarimala season begins on Wednesday and the pilgrims will be affected. The state government should open control rooms at the secretariat and collectorates to solve their problems, said Mr Chennithala. Former chief minister Oommen Chandy flayed the BJPs propaganda against the co-operative sector in the state. The two Congress MLAs, V. T. Balram and K. S. Sabarinathan, who had lauded Mr Modis steps, would have realised that those who queued up before the banks do not have black money with them, said Mr Chandy.
The UDFs reaction to the demonetisation came after it faced attack for keeping mum in the beginning. A Congress leader told DC that the UDF leaders had woken up from their slumber late. After the meeting, Mr Chennithala, Mr Chandy, Muslim League leader P. K. Kunhalikutty and KPCC vice-president M. M. Hassan held talks with Reserve Bank officials on easing the difficulties of the people.
Major Oposition parties meet at New Delhi to deliberate on demonetisation and other issues to be raised at Winter Session of Parliament (Photo: Twitter)
New Delhi: Seeking to corner the government in Parliament on the demonetisation issue, major opposition parties, including arch rivals TMC and CPI(M), on Monday held deliberations to finalise a common strategy alleging that the decision was a "scripted scam" which was leaked to the ruling BJP much in advance.
The meeting, held in the chamber of Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad, saw rivals TMC and Left coming together with leaders of YSR Congress, JMM, RJD and JDU to discuss ways to put the Government on the mat in Parliament.
The leaders decided to meet again tomorrow to finalise a common strategy as today's meeting remained inconclusive in absence of leaders from BSP, SP, DMK and NCP. The Winter Session of Parliament starts from November 16.
After the meeting, Azad said there was consensus among parties against black money but equally everyone felt that the Government had leaked the demonetisation information to the ruling BJP and a "scripted scam".
"There was consensus against black money in the meeting but everyone was against the way demonetisation was implemented. It came suddenly and the information was leaked to the ruling party while other parties learnt of it only two hours before it was to roll out. This is a scam and we will raise it in Parliament," Azad said.
Asked if opposition parties will join the TMC delegation to the President on November 16, Azad said, "The question is not who is going with them or who is leading. The question is when to go, which date to go, whether to go mid-session or later."
To a question about whether there was consensus on anything in the meeting, Azad said there was consensus on questioning the Government over the way the decision was leaked to the ruling party.
"There is a difference between us and the Government so far as logic of demonetisation goes. The Government says it has done what it has done whether people live or die. We are saying we are against black money but also against the way demonetization was implemented.
"The government leaked it to the ruling party. Rest of the parties were told only two hours in advance. People are also being inconvenienced all over. We will meet again tomorrow to discuss these issues since all parties were not present today. We don't have to evolve a one day strategy. It has to be a strategy for the whole session," said Azad.
Donald Trumps victory upended pollsters and shocked the global community anxiously awaiting the outcome of an extremely raucous and personalised election. The leaders of Americas Republican Party had surmised, after losing to President Barack Obama in 2008 and 2012, that to win in an ethnically diversifying country they would have to broaden their base. Mr Trump, however, did just the opposite by consolidating white majority support by an unabashedly anti-minority and bigoted campaign. The Economist magazine, which had denounced Mr Trump prior to the election, writes that he has contempt for conservative orthodoxy and harbours a dystopian vision, bigotry and anti-intellectualism. It concludes that if he has not rewritten the rules of electioneering, he has certainly flouted most of them. His new electoral alliance, transcending traditional party lines, dredges economic fears and racial anxiety of the white majority, that will shrink by 2050 from 61.8 per cent of the population today to 46.6 per cent, if current immigration policies persist. In his victory speech, he called them the forgotten men and women.
Though the last-minute intervention by the director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation broke Hillary Clintons momentum and distracted attention away from Mr Trumps sex tapes, she really lost as she did not represent the change which most people sought. His win mirrors a global trend towards the rise of chauvinistic leaders, often highly divisive but certainly autocratic, who rally their nations using past hurts or contemporary angst. Those falling into this category would include Russias Vladimir Putin, Turkeys Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey, Chinas Xi Jinping and Indias Narendra Modi. Waiting in the wings are Trump clones like Marine Le Pen, leader of the xenophobic National Front in France, often dubbed Trump Lite. Mr Trumps apparent threat to the existing geo-economic order, stems from his economic and foreign policy pronouncements in the campaign, a lot even contemptuous of the traditional Republican Party platform. For instance, he condemns all trade agreements, including the North American Free Trade Agreement (Nafta), that integrated the Mexican and Canadian economies with that of the US.
On foreign policy, he advocates a retreat from US exceptionalism a bedrock of the US worldview as the deemed custodian of liberty and freedom worldwide. Mr Trump instead preaches America First and an isolationist stance. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, in her congratulatory message, conditioned partnership on respect for human dignity, racial equality and tolerance. A similar message went from the European Union. These are surprisingly blunt signals to the putative leader of the Western alliance. From the fog of electioneering some elements of his putative foreign and domestic policies are emerging. In his victory speech he was moderation incarnate, advocating partnership and not confrontation with nations willing to get along with us. Having campaigned against Nafta he would have to at least review if not discard it. The Mexican peso has plunged in anticipation and Canada, which sends three-quarters of its exports to the US, is understandably nervous.
The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), which was to tie the US to 11 partners in the Asia-Pacific region and provide geo-strategic underpinning to containing China, is now in limbo. Japans Lower House had already approved the TPP. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is rushing to engage Mr Trump in the US even before his inauguration to seek clarity about all elements of the US-Japan alliance. Mr Trumps praise of President Vladimir Putin and signal to Nato allies that to obtain US protection they must commit greater resources increases uncertainty in Europe, already facing universally rising anti-establishment feelings, of which Brexit was a signal. His iconoclastic suggestion, which he may now drop, that Japan and the Republic of Korea could acquire nuclear weapons if they need for self-protection to offset reduced US commitment may undermine the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, not entirely an unwelcome prospect from Indias perspective.
The Trump approach to the Islamic world is also laden with paradoxes. He has scoffed at Sunni Gulf sheikhdoms and yet also wants to undo the nuclear deal with Iran. At the same time he wants ISIS obliterated, though it seems extremely unlikely that he would be prepared to commit troops for this. He is unlikely to press Israel as Mr Obama did on illegal settlements. But President Obama engaged Iran realising that the US could not counter ISIS without committing troops in West Asia unless the Russia-Iran axis, supplemented by US-boosted Iraqi and Kurdish forces operating under US air cover, was unshackled in northern Syria-Iraq. A group called Hindu Americans for Trump had invited him to a New Jersey temple in a town largely inhabited by Gujarati-origin Indians. Was it PM Narendra Modis outreach to Mr Trump using the RSS and Gujarati links? If so, it is a welcome move.
India will have to watch carefully Mr Trumps policy towards East Asia, including China, Europe, including Russia, and West Asia, mainly Iran. India and Pakistan would perhaps figure lower on his initial list of priorities. On trade and economics, India must monitor his policy on visas, taxing of outsourcing firms and other protectionist steps that may present both challenges and opportunities. Trump Inc has real estate links in Mumbai and Pune. He is also at heart a transactional businessman whom India can engage as he carries little baggage of Cold War links to Pakistan. Mr Modi must find the first opportunity to meet him to develop chemistry and sell a shared vision of 21st century Asia. India-US ties are flourishing but still lack economic and technological depth. Some unfinished business still lingers such as Indias permanent membership of the UN Security Council, Nuclear Suppliers Group and enhanced defence links. Can Mr Modis Make in India be meshed with Mr Trumps America First to craft, what President Obama once called, the defining partnership of the 21st century? History beckons both.
Last week defence minister Manohar Parrikar had created a flutter when he appeared to cast doubts on Indias nuclear doctrine of no first use framed after the 1998 test by the Atal Behari Vajpayee government. The minister, and the defence ministry, then hastily clarified that the doctrine hadnt changed, and that
Mr Parrikar was only expressing his personal view. But doubts persist that the minister may have been deployed by his party, the government or RSS to send up a trial balloon. Quite apart from the fact that in our system a minister cant express an individual opinion on an important public issue, particularly one so sensitive as the nuclear question, there are other reasons why Mr Parrikars comment cant be taken to be in the nature of an Upanishadic speculation or thinking aloud by an inquisitive soul.
On his return from Japan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi publicly extolled his defence minister as one of the brightest jewels in his government. The commentariat thought Mr Parrikar had done enough to earn a censure. His seemingly unwise comments had come even as a meeting of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) was due in Vienna to consider the Indian application for membership. Equally worrying, the personal observation came while the PM was engaged in clinching a sensitive civil nuclear agreement with Japan, that has been deeply suspicious of India for its 1998 test since this country is not a signatory to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
But none of this mattered to Mr Modi, who publicly praised his defence minister. Besides, the BJPs 2014 manifesto had appeared to openly question the nuclear doctrine, and this had been commented on then. The document made plain its intention to study in detail Indias nuclear doctrine, and revise and update it to make it relevant to the challenges of current times. From its early Jan Sangh days, the saffron party has been in favour of India being a robust nuclear-capable nation.
Given its far-right nationalistic outlook, the BJP is likely to have swallowed the no first use doctrine explicated in 1999 as a bitter pill, given the global disapprobation that followed our nuclear test, specially from the United States, with which the then Vajpayee government sought the closest possible relationship. For a party that lays a premium on appearing militarily strong, to the BJP mindset no first use is likely to sound vegetarian and weak, though the doctrine makes eminent sense. Its essence is that India will not deploy nuclear weapons against a non-nuclear weapon state; and in dealing with the latter it wont be the first to use the bomb. This implies having a credible nuclear deterrence. In light of this context, the government needs to quickly clarify its position in Parliament.
In a surprise move, the government last week derecognised the existing Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, and while policymakers and senior Reserve Bank officials were preparing for this for a long time, it was kept secret from the public to take away any advantage that hoarders of unaccounted money, terrorist financiers, counterfeit operators, money launderers and the like, might have had. The government has vigorously defended this move as a bold step to counter black money and promote digital payments, and is certain of its net positive impact on the economy in the long term. At the same time, critics of the move have denounced it, pointing out that black money is not a stock problem, as most of it does not actually remain stashed in cash, but is likely to be invested through front companies, in benami real estate, gold, and is thus unlikely to be recovered to any significant extent through the ongoing exercise.
This discussion on the long-term economic impact has overtaken the narrative, with the challenges being faced by honest taxpayers and law-abiding consumers to obtain the new currency notes getting pushed to the background and appearing to be nobodys business. Such concerns are being summarily brushed aside as teething problems or a minor inconvenience that consumers are expected to bear in the larger interest of the health of the economy. Such apathy to the difficulties faced by the common man is not new and appears to be an inherent feature of government policy decisions that often look at the larger long-term picture, but ignore the short and medium-term impact on different sections of society. This points to a larger systemic malaise of inadequate planning and preparation to deal with implementation-linked challenges of policy decisions.
As a result, despite the governments claims of banks, post offices and ATMs being flush with new currency notes within days of this decision, the reality is starkly different. Banks have been repeatedly suspending all exchange operations temporarily to manage crowds. Long serpentine queues are visible outside bank branches as well as ATMs, with the latter frequently getting dry of cash in little to no time. Shortage of staff to load ATMs is adding to the misery. Several ATMs are facing technical glitches, being unable to dispense notes of less than Rs 100 or the new Rs 500 and Rs 2,000 notes. Hospitals and medical shops are not accepting the old currency notes and the latter are often shutting down before their usual time, resulting in lack of proper medical care. Low-income consumers without any valid identify proofs and bank accounts are the worst hit, and are often left with no avenues of currency exchange. Those who are fortunate enough to have the new `2,000 notes are facing difficulties in using them due to the lack of adequate legal change in the market.
A lack of focus on transition and implementation-related challenges is not unique to the ongoing demonetisation exercise, but has been a common feature of all major reform measures in the past. Many residents of Delhi will remember the long queues for compressed natural gas after the mandatory shift of public vehicles from polluting diesel to CNG, and with insufficient outlets available to dispense the new fuel. Another example is that of the Goods and Services Tax. While a consensus appears on the long-term positive impact of GST on the economy, the limited focus on sensitisation of consumers and SMEs, and on building capacity to address implementation-related chal-lenges could do unintended harm. Similarly, while all agree that the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code is expected to facilitate exit and unlock capital, lack of engagement with the public on issues like debt mediation, addressing infrastructure and capacity constraints at debt recovery tribunals could pose difficulties in achieving its objectives.
On the same lines, while the government claims to have taken several measures to facilitate the ease of doing business and access to credit for small and medium enter-prises, in spite of our sugges-tions no structured mechani-sm to take stakeholder feedback and measure perfor-mance of entry and middle-level government officials could result in sub-optimal outcomes. Going back to the demoneti-sation scheme, the only places chosen for currency exchange are RBI offices, bank branches and post offices. While the first two do not have enough touch points in rural India, it seems that adequate cash is yet to reach the post offices. Recognised non-bank players (some of whom have obtained payment banks and small banks licences) have offered to operate as currency exchange, deposit and withdrawal points after necessary KYC checks. It seems that the government has not yet warmed up to this idea. As a result, the poor are being forced to get the currency exchanged from moneylenders and hoarders at a loss on account of the commission that is being charged.
It is essential for the government to think through all the implementation-related challenges of its policies. It must periodically take stakeholder feedback and conduct mid-course correction to ensure benefits reach the intended beneficiaries. For instance, the government could have planned for dedicated touch points in this case at places like schools and hospitals. There should be no problem in co-opting non-bank financial service providers in this initiative. Further, it should be remembered that if consumers are expected to bear the inconvenience during the transition period, they expect the government to come clean with the impact of this move on the economy. The government must proactively declare the extent of black money and counterfeit currency seized as a result of this initiative and how it plans to curb similar illegal activities in the future.
Facebook chief executive Mark Zuckerberg again rejected the idea that the social network affected the US presidential election.
Facebook chief executive Mark Zuckerberg again rejected the idea that the social network affected the US presidential election, saying late Saturday it is "extremely unlikely" news hoaxes changed the outcome.
Ensnared in a string of content controversies in recent months, Facebook has insisted that it is a technology company, not a media firm. But scrutiny of the site has heightened since the surprise election of Republican Donald Trump on Tuesday, with critics alleging the site helped spread lies via fake news stories and hoaxes.
Zuckerberg has vehemently defended the network against such criticism, calling the idea that Facebook affected the election "crazy" at a conference on Thursday. He echoed that stance in his late Saturday post, though he said the company would do more to prevent fake news.
Such hoaxes represent a sliver of content shared on Facebook and because they are not limited to partisan views or politics, it is unlikely they could have changed the election's outcome, Zuckerberg said.
"Of all the content on Facebook, more than 99 per cent of what people see is authentic," he said, noting the network's goal is to "give every person a voice."
Still, Facebook has launched work to enable people to flag hoaxes and fake news, the statement said.
Facebook has faced a number of content controversies this year, including international outcry after it removed an iconic Vietnam War photo due to nudity, a decision that was later reversed. The thorniest content issues are decided by a group of top executives at Facebook.
Questions over content policing have returned to the fore in the tense days since the election, which has led to protests against Trump and his proposed policies in major US cities.
Ahead of the Nov. 8 election, Facebook users saw fake news reports erroneously alleging that Pope Francis endorsed Donald Trump and that a federal agent who had been investigating Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton was found dead.
Senior management have launched a conversation to examine Facebook's involvement in affecting opinions and votes, The New York Times reported on Saturday, saying a group of vice presidents and executives began discussing late Tuesday the company's role in the election's outcome.
Facebook's policy team was called together and the firm plans to address staff concerns at a broader meeting, the paper reported, citing anonymous sources.
Facebook representatives were not immediately available to comment on the report.
"After the election, many people are asking whether fake news contributed to the result, and what our responsibility is to prevent fake news from spreading," Zuckerberg said on Saturday.
"These are very important questions and I care deeply about getting them right."
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"The Muslim religion allows the use of these methods in certain circumstances, especially if the health of the baby and mother are at the heart of the thought process," says Ibrahim. (Representational image)
Kenya: Swaddled in colourful hijabs the women exchange puzzled looks and suppress embarrassed giggles. "You're sure it's halal?" asks one, peering at a collection of birth control pills, condoms and IUDs.
Such everyday forms of contraception are little known and rarely seen in Kenya's arid and neglected northeast, an overwhelmingly poor, conservative and Muslim part of the country where most people are pastoralist ethnic Somalis.
A study of early marriage by the charity Save the Children found that just two percent of the population of Wajir county uses contraception -- compared with a national Kenyan average of 58 percent -- due to modern contraceptive methods being seen as a breach of Islamic principles.
But Deka Ibrahim, a female Islamic teacher, explains that contraception is halal, permissible, as she talks to a group of 40 newly-weds and mothers sitting on the dusty concrete floor of a dark room that is the village's tiny maternity centre.
One woman feeds her child while others absentmindedly fidget with the long sleeves of their austere outfits, revealing intricately painted henna tattoos and fake diamond bracelets.
"The Muslim religion allows the use of these methods in certain circumstances, especially if the health of the baby and mother are at the heart of the thought process," says Ibrahim.
She adds however that according to this interpretation of Islam there are conditions for using contraceptives: they must be temporary, spousal approval is required, and, she reminds them, abortion is illegal in Islam as well as in Kenyan law.
As a government nurse goes on to explain how to use the different devices, Halima, 16, the mother of a nine-month-old girl listens intently.
"I want to have more children, but not now. I want to wait until my child has grown up a bit and I'm sure she is healthy," Halima says.
Tradition vs health
Here, maternity and tradition are issues that burn as hot as the sun beating down on the sandy soil and dry thorn bushes outside, issues that sideline women and can endanger their lives and those of their children.
More than four in 10 women in northeast Kenya are married before their 18th birthday, their youth leading to increased problems in pregnancy, labour and birth.
Making the situation worse is that most deliveries are home births, unsanitary and without qualified midwives.
On top of that, the average woman has eight children, a large brood -- like a herd of livestock -- seen as a symbol of wealth in Somali culture.
"When an adolescent girl becomes pregnant or there is not enough space between pregnancies, the risk of complications is high," says Sulekha Mohamed of Save the Children, adding that 98 percent of women in northeast Kenya are circumcised, heaping further risk on giving birth.
"If you are pregnant four months after giving birth, your body has not had time to recover," she says.
Religion to the rescue
A 2014 demographic study showed perinatal deaths in Kenya's northeast were more than 50 percent higher than the national average. Since then religious leaders have been co-opted into battling the statistics.
"Historically, in our culture, men take many wives and women have many children, so family planning is seen as a foreign idea, a colonial Western idea to limit the population," says Mursal Abdiwahab, the khadi of Wajir in charge of the Muslim family court, who ruled that contraception is halal.
"Our role as religious leaders and learned people is to explain what Islam allows or not."
The message seems to be getting through. In the first three months of this year, 3,177 women joined the family planning programme, a major increase from the 1,382 participants in the same period the year before.
Safiya, a 28-year-old mother of four, says she wants "more children, because that is what my religion dictates," but after learning that contraception is permitted in Islam she is now spacing out her pregnancies.
"Before, I was very sick, very bad in the first months of pregnancy, but this is no longer the case."
Back at the maternity clinic, Fatuma, 25, lies on a bed. After several weeks of reflection, and with her husband's blessing, she readies herself for the insertion of a contraceptive device.
"Since my religion accepts family planning, I'll use it for the good of my health," she says, and with that the nurse slides a blue curtain in front of the bed.
She turns to the male journalist with a benevolent smile saying, "This, it stays among the women."
Since Tuesday's shock election triumph, Trump had appeared to tone down his rhetoric, notably suggesting he might be willing to reconsider a pledge to scrap President Barack Obama's signature health reform. (Photo: AP)
New York: Donald Trump plans to immediately deport or jail as many as three million undocumented immigrants, the Republican said Sunday as he set out his priorities as America's head of state in the first television interview since his election.
Millions were expected to tune in to Trump's full interview with CBS's "60 Minutes" for clues on how the populist billionaire will govern, and how far he intends to convert his firebrand slogans into hard and fast policy.
Since Tuesday's shock election triumph, Trump had appeared to tone down his rhetoric, notably suggesting he might be willing to reconsider a pledge to scrap President Barack Obama's signature health reform.
But he made clear in excerpts of Sunday's interview that he still intended to crack down on the undocumented, focusing on people with criminal records.
"What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people -- probably two million, it could be even three million -- we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate," Trump said.
He also said he stood by his pledge to build a wall on the Mexican border -- although he said it could include some fencing.
Experts estimate there are as many as 11 million foreigners living illegally in the United States, many of them Central and Southern Americans long-established in the country.
Trump's stance stood in opposition with comments by House Speaker Paul Ryan, who said Sunday the focus under a Trump administration would be on securing the border, not rounding up immigrants.
"We are not planning on erecting a deportation force. Donald Trump's not planning on that," Ryan told CNN.
Appointment 'imminent'
Since his election on the back of an incendiary anti-immigrant campaign, thousands of demonstrators have taken to the streets daily, worried that Trump will put his rhetoric into practice.
The billionaire's Trump Tower residence in Manhattan was picketed for four straight days by, with similar protests across the United States.
The tower has been a hive of activity as the real estate mogul huddles with his transition team to shape his cabinet -- appointments expected to play a crucial role in setting the tone of an administration led by a 70-year-old political novice.
Trump faces a colossal task in hammering out cabinet picks and filling hundreds of other top government jobs ahead of his January 20 inauguration.
Campaign manager Kellyanne Conway has said the announcement of White House chief of staff -- the powerful gatekeeper to the president -- is "imminent."
Top contenders include Reince Priebus, the head of the Republican National Committee, who Trump has credited for helping engineer his unlikely election win.
'Hold him accountable'
Democrats have been despondent in the wake of an election they were certain of winning, but vowed Sunday to oppose Trump -- despite now being locked out of power not only in the House and Senate, but now in the White House as well.
"Our job now is to hold him accountable," said Bernie Sanders, who lost to Hillary Clinton in the Democratic nomination race.
"If Mr. Trump has the courage to take on Wall Street, to take on the drug companies, to try to work forward, go forward to create a better life for working people, we will work with him, issue by issue.
"But if his presidency is going to be about discrimination, if it's going to be about scapegoating immigrants or scapegoating African-Americans or Muslims, we will oppose him vigorously," Sanders declared.
An ABC News/Washington Post poll out Sunday shows that 74 percent of Americans accept Trump's election as legitimate, but that number fell to 58 percent among supporters of his defeated rival Clinton.
Trump has shown some willingness to soften his more strident positions. His U-turn on Obamacare -- he now says he may simply amend a law he once branded a "disaster" on the stump -- was prompted by his White House meeting with the outgoing president earlier this week.
He told CBS and The Wall Street Journal he may maintain some of the program's more popular elements, such as a ban on insurance companies denying coverage because of so-called pre-existing health conditions.
Asked by the paper whether he would, as threatened, name a special prosecutor to investigate Clinton over her use of a private email server as secretary of state, Trump deflected, saying his priorities were "health care, jobs, border control, tax reform."
Not long ago Trump was leading crowds in chants of "Lock her up!"
Hate groups
The Republican has yet to respond, however, to mounting calls to reassure Americans who fear a xenophobic crackdown under his authority.
The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), which monitors hate groups, tracked more than 200 incidents of election-related harassment in the three days following the vote, with many more allegations emerging on social media.
Tens of thousands have signed an SPLC petition urging Trump to clearly distance himself from hate groups.
The first woman to fly China's J-10 fighter plane, Yu Xu, was killed in an accident. (Photo: AFP/File)
Beijing: The first woman to fly China's J-10 fighter plane, Yu Xu, was killed in an accident during a routine training flight with the aerobatics team over the weekend.
The engine and the flight data recorder or black box of the two-seater fighter jet J-10 has been recovered at the accident site in Yutian county on Saturday evening, reports the China Daily.
According to an official, the authorities are investigating the cause of the accident.
Two pilots from the Bayi Aerobatic Team of People's Liberation Army's Air Force were conducting a routine flight training on Saturday morning in Tianjin before they were forced to eject from the jet as two jets hit each other.
Witnesses said the impact left a 10-meter diameter and 3-meter deep pit on the farmland at Dayangpu village of Chenjiapu.
The male pilot parachuted to safety. But Yu Xu hit the wing of another J-10 and died. She was at the back seat during the training.
Islamabad: Pakistan army chief General Raheel Sharif on Monday ordered troops to "effectively" respond to firing by India across the Line of Control (LoC) after the death of seven Pakistani soldiers.
The army chief was in Jhelum near Rawalpindi to attend the funeral prayers of the dead soldiers, according to army spokesman.
He was given a briefing by the senior commanders about the latest situation on the LoC.
General Raheel said on the occasion that army "will continue to respond effectively" and it ordered that it should "leave no stone unturned to defend motherland".
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that Pakistan responded effectively to the Indian fire and "it would have surly killed Indian troops."
He claimed that India was hiding its losses on the LoC.
Islamabad: Pakistan on Monday said seven of its soldiers were killed in "unprovoked" firing by Indian troops across the LoC, prompting it to summon the Indian envoy here to warn that India's "belligerent" attitude may lead to a "strategic miscalculation".
Seven Pakistani soldiers were killed at the LoC in the Bhimber sector in an alleged ceasefire violation by Indian troops late last night, according to a statement by the army.
Pakistani troops responded to "unprovoked" Indian firing and targeted Indian posts "effectively", it said.
Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry summoned Indian High Commissioner Gautam Bambawale this afternoon and condemned the "unprovoked ceasefire" violation by the Indian forces on the Line of Control (LoC).
The Foreign Secretary deplored the increasing Indian ceasefire violations at the LoC and the Working Boundary, especially in the last two months, a statement said.
He emphasised that this "belligerent attitude" of Indian forces was a "serious threat to the regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation", the statement added.
The Foreign Secretary asked the Indian High Commissioner to convey to his government that it must stop the provocative firing and observe the ceasefire.
Pakistan is pursuing a policy of restraint, which should not be construed as a sign of weakness, the statement quoted him as saying.
He underlined that the Armed Forces of Pakistan do not initiate fire, but will always respond in a befitting manner, if fired upon, the statement said.
It is for the second time in a week that Pakistan has summoned Indian High Commissioner.
Pakistan on November 10 summoned Bambawale to the Foreign Office to protest over alleged ceasefire violations and use of artillery by the Indian forces.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif asserted that his country is "fully capable" of defending its territory against "any aggression".
Sharif expressed grief over the loss of lives in the "latest violation of Line of Control (LoC) by the Indian forces" and said "it is extremely unfortunate that Indian forces have continuously violated ceasefire agreement at the LoC in the recent days", Press Information Department Pakistan said.
"We are fully capable of defending our soil against any aggression," it quoted Sharif as saying.
The Prime Minister also claimed that the Indian forces have resorted to escalating tension on the LoC only to "uselessly divert" the world's attention from the "grave human rights situation" in Kashmir.
Army chief General Raheel Sharif ordered troops to "effectively" respond to firing by India.
Raheel said that army "will continue to respond effectively" and it ordered that it should "leave no stone unturned to defend motherland".
Pakistan's Advisor to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz also condemned the "unprovoked Indian firing" on the LoC, Foreign Office (FO) said
"He (Aziz) expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed," it said, adding that Aziz expressed grave concern over the recently increased frequency and duration of indiscriminate firing/shelling "from the Indian side, deliberately targeting villages and civilian populated areas".
The Foreign Office said that Pakistan is urging the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) to send an urgent report to the UN Security Council to inform them about the serious ceasefire violations on the LoC and the unwarranted escalation of tension between the two countries.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, responding to the latest development along the shared Pak-India border, claimed that India was heating up the situation along the LoC and Working Boundary due to internal compulsions, Radio Pakistan reported.
The defence minister said it was regrettable that "certain extremist elements which had come into power in India could become a source of destruction not only for their own country but the whole region".
Asif urged the global community to take notice of "Indian provocations against Pakistan" as any escalation of tension between the two nuclear armed neighbours could prove catastrophic for the whole region.
He added that Pakistan is using diplomatic and international forums to highlight Indian "belligerence".
So far, mostly civilian have been killed in the firing on Pakistani side of the LoC.
Pakistan Foreign Office last week said that the civilian death toll from alleged Indian shelling has risen to at least 25 in the past few weeks.
A Pakistani officer says police have arrested 10 members of a criminal gang who flogged a transgender person. (Photo: AFP/Representational)
Islamabad : A Pakistani officer says police have arrested 10 members of a criminal gang who flogged a transgender person and posted the incident on social media.
Iqbal Sindhu says Monday's arrests were made in the eastern Pakistani city of Sialkot after a video of the flogging was shared thousands of times on social media.
The gang's leader, identified as Jajja Butt, is seen in the video flogging the transgender man, who lay face down on a cot screaming in pain.
At one point, while another gang member continues the flogging, Butt places his foot on the victim's neck and twists his arms.
A transgender woman in Pakistans Sialkot city was flogged by the leader of a criminal gang. (Photo: Screengrab)
Islamabad: A transgender woman in Pakistans Sialkot city has revealed the atrocities they suffered at the hands of members of a criminal gang who were arrested on Monday in connection with the flogging of one of the transgender women.
The leader of the criminal gang flogged a transgender woman at her home in front of a few other people, who intervened to protect her. He later posted a video of the abuse on social media.
According to reports, one of the transgender women identified as Jolie was present at the crime scene. She said the gang members dragged them all out after flogging the victim and took them to another transgender womans house.
She said the gang members barged into a house where several transgender women were living, beating and torturing one of them for several hours and shaving the heads of others.
She alleged that the men forced them to drink their urine, raped them and beat them up with shoes.
The gang members were arrested in the eastern city of Sialkot after the video of the flogging was shared thousands of times on social media, said police official Iqbal Sindhu.
The video shows the gang leader pinning the woman face down on a bed with his foot and beating her with what appears to be a leather belt. At one point, while another gang member continues the flogging, the leader places his foot on the victim's neck and twists her arms.
Police chief Abid Khan said five of those arrested have been charged with torture and extortion, while the other five are under investigation.
The alleged gang leader, who identified himself as Jajja, told Dunya News that he was friends with the victim.
"I was punishing him because he didn't refrain from his bad habits, which I pointed out to him several times," he said in an interview conducted while he was in police custody.
Transgender people in Pakistan are social outcasts who are often forced into begging, dancing and prostitution to earn money. Fearing attacks, most either change their names or use only one name.
TransAction, a local transgender rights group, posted a video interview with Jolie. Sindhu, the police official, confirmed Jolie was present at the scene.
Surging crowds outside banks showed no signs of abatement on Sunday. Frayed tempers were seen outside many banks on Sunday as queues started shaping up as early as 5.30 am.
Banks in central Delhi like Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place, too, say long queues despite the weekend day off in offices.
In middle class colonies like Malviya Nagar, there appeared to be signs of the situation turning into a law and order problem even as specially deputed policemen tried their best to manage the crowd.
There were many who returned disappointed. The bank has closed down due to shortage of cash, complained a customer outside Bank of Maharashtra on Shahjahan Road.
Shortage of Rs 100 notes continued to be the biggest problem as many ATM machines were found unfit for loading the new currency notes that are less wide than the phased out notes.
A household waste collector complained of being forced to feed on bread and remaining empty stomach for two days.
No eatery is excepting the old Rs 500 note and I do not have time to queue up outside bank, said Ravinder, who works in colonies like Hauz Khas and Panchsheel Park.
Bank staff has also started complaining, privately, about the maddening rush and work load.
DH News Service
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday claimed there is an emergency like situation in the country due to the demonetisation of Rs 500, Rs 1000 notes and demanded the decision should be taken back immediately.
He accused the Prime Minister of mocking the people standing in queue in his speech at Goa and demanded apology from him.
The PM made a speech in Goa and sought 50 days to abolish the problems faced by the common people. But this has increased the nervousness among the people. People are not in a condition to wait for even 50 hours and are dying of hunger despite having money. There is a situation of emergency in the country, said Kejriwal.
When he had announced this decision, he said things would be normal in two days. The next day he said things would take another 10 days to normalise. Yesterday, Arun Jaitely said it would be take three weeks and now the PM is saying that it would take 50 days, he said.
The BJP slammed Kejriwal for allegedly provoking people over the demonetisation and threatened legal action if he did not observe restraint.
Expressing his displeasure on Modis speech in Goa where the PM got emotional, Kejriwal said, I was very disappointed when I heard the PMs speech. He said people who are involved in big scams like 2G, coal scam are standing in the queues. I would like to ask the PM whether the people who committed suicide resemble D Raja and Kanimozhi?
Small farmers, housewives stood in the queues. Do they look like Suresh Kalmadi? By saying this the PM mocked the people who have been standing in the queue.
PM should appologise
The CM demanded that the Prime Minister should apologise to the people of the nation for such remarks. He also alleged that Modi has befriended the corrupt people in the country and is not taking any action against them.
Modi has repeated many times that 1.25 crore people are honest, a few lakh people are dishonest. Then why dont doesnt he apprehends these dishonest people. Why are the rest of the people being harassed, he alleged.
Kejriwal alleged that no action has been taken against those who are in the possession of blackmoney as promised before the elections.
Before the elections the PM had promised that he would put Robert Vadra behind the bars. All the corrupt people would be sent to jail. But now Modiji has struck friendship with them. He has not made any attempt to bring even a single penny from the Swiss Bank, he said.
He accused the government of inaction against 648 people whose name was mentioned in a list of blackmoney holders in the country which included the high and mighty.
I demand that the government sits down and takes the matter seriously. There is no seriousness except drama and false promises. The matter should be taken seriously and take out some solution in the next 24 hours or else the country is going downhill, he said.
Kejriwal said if Modi wants to bring demonetisation, then he should come with proper planning and enough resources to meet the demands.
He narrated the plight of the common people including transporters, daily wagers and farmers who have been adversely affected by this decision.
Delhi BJP President Satish Upadhyay said that it is time Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal restrains himself from provoking people on the issue of scrapping of notes or be prepared to face legal consequences.
All these days we thought that Kejriwal's desperation due to loss of cash funds stacked for Punjab & Goa elections will subside and he will get back to senses. Unfortunately, today evening he crossed all limits by saying that this may soon aggravate into a law & order problem. It seems he is trying to provocate people, Upadhyay said.
South Korea's Kia Motors Corp is likely to announce its plans for the Indian market over the next six months as it finalises finer details on the product mix, production, sales and marketing strategies.
According to the sources, as and when it decides to set up operations in India, the car maker may set up a plant with an initial production capacity of 2.5 lakh per annum with an option of scaling it up later.
"It will take some time to come up with final decision on India entry. It should at least take around six months to announce it formally," a source said.
The company would, however, need more time to actually start rolling out vehicles as it would need to establish manufacturing operations. Kia, a part of the Hyundai group, is scouting for land in various states, including Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
When contacted, a company spokesperson said: "We at Kia Motors are continually evaluating potential locations for overseas manufacturing facilities, including India, to secure additional engines for future growth. However, as of now no concrete plans have been finalised."
It is understood that the company is working on how to overcome the challenge of having a clear distinction for its product portfolio from that of Hyundai, which is already the second the largest car manufacturer in India after Maruti Suzuki India.
The source said, "When it comes to sales network Kia will have its own dealers."Kia also plans to manufacture its engines in India, whenever it decides to open shop there, the source added.
Kia' global production capacity currently stands at over 3 million units while Hyundai's global production capacity is around 5 million vehicles annually. Globally, Hyundai shares parts and vehicle underpinnings with Kia, which it acquired in 1998.
Hyundai sells several low-priced vehicles in India, which could pose a challenge in terms of market positioning for Kia, which sells a range of vehicles including a compact crossover utility vehicle brand, Sportage; an urban crossover brand, Soul; compact car Rio; and mid-size and luxury sedans under the brand names Optima, Cadenza and K900. Kia also has hybrid and electric vehicles on offer in some countries.
Notwithstanding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's emotional appeal to people to cooperate with him to weed out illegal money, Shiv Sena today described the demonetisation as "demonic and unsystematic" that has led to "financial anarchy" in the country.
Lashing out further, the ruling ally said instead of striking Pakistan, Modi has wounded Indian citizens who do not have any black money and the few who actually possess illegal funds have safely parked it in foreign banks.
"125 crore Indians are standing in queues in scorching heat without food and water. Do you expect them to back you in future? Are you repaying people the blessings they gave you by forcing them to come on streets? This is blatant cheating with them," an editorial in Sena mouthpiece 'Saamana' said.
"The spectacle of weeding out black money is monstrous," it said. The Sena alleged that the path adopted by Modi to halt black money flow is "demonic" and "unsystematic" that has resulted in "financial anarchy" in the nation.
"Instead of striking Pakistan, PM Modi has struck and wounded Indian citizens and mocked their nationalism by saluting them for bearing the anarchy," it said.
"Black money is not held by ordinary citizens who are standing in queues but a handful of people who have parked their money in foreign banks before the demonetisation announcement. What action has been taken against them?" it said.
Today, roads are empty, shops have no business, vegetable markets have no buyers, labourers have no work and petrol pumps are slowly getting shut for lack of change, the junior alliance partner said.
Modi, in an impassioned plea to the nation yesterday, asked for 50 days to weed out the ill-gotten wealth in India.
Blending emotion with aggression, the PM mounted a counteroffensive against the opposition over demonetisation of high-value currency notes, promising more anti-graft measures in future "even if I'm burned alive".
With millions grappling with demonetisation blues, a combative Narendra Modi today defended the action as one which has brought "sound sleep" to the poor and unnerved the corrupt even as his rivals made a common cause against him, terming his remarks as "insult" to people.
As a belligerent Prime Minister sought to rally public support for the contentious measure, hailed and reviled by his supporters and opponents, the demonetisation exercise saw many of his political rivals come together on the issue, with some even alleging BJP leaders had prior information about the impending decision.
Pummelling the Congress and other parties which are criticising demonetisation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the corrupt were upset while the poor were "enjoying a sound sleep" after his decision and urged people to bear some inconvenience to root out graft.
"After demonetisation, the poor are enjoying a sound sleep while rich are running from pillar to post to buy sleeping pills," Modi said as he tried to rally public support in poll-bound Uttar Pradesh, picking up from where he left yesterday in his speeches laced with emotion and aggression in Goa and Belagavi.
"Don't mislead people...I want to ask Congressmen who claim people are facing problems how you turned the entire country into a jail for 19 months by imposing Emergency," he said addressing a rally in Ghazipur, adding it was done only to save the seat of the then prime minister Indira Gandhi after the Allahabad High Court verdict against her, and not out of any concern for the poor.
He said there was no dearth of money for development, but the fact was that money was stashed away somewhere else and not where it should have been. The November 8 decision of the Modi government, however, brought a fractured opposition together on the issue barely a couple of days ahead of Parliament's winter session with representatives of seven parties-- Congress, TMC, JD(U), RJD, CPI, CPI(M) and YSR (Congress)--discussing the matter. The SP, BSP and AAP, which have strongly criticised the government on the demonetisation issue gave the meeting a miss, besides DMK, AIADMK and NCP.
Mamata Banerjee's TMC has even decided to meet President Pranab Mukherjee on November 16, the day Parliament session starts, to highlight the "crisis" situation. It was, however, not clear if other parties will join TMC in the delegation to President. The leaders of these parties are likely to meet again tomorrow when representatives from Mayawati's BSP and some others are expected to be present, according to CPI national secretary D Raja.
The Congress accused the Modi government of unleashing "economic anarchy" and "tax terrorism" in the country and called for unity among opposition parties. "Whatever may be the differences, political parties should not shy away from voicing the concern of the people so as to address the grievances," party's chief spokesman Randeep Surjewala said soon after the meeting of the opposition parties.
Daring Modi to make public the bank details of the party at the central and state levels, Surjewala alleged that a BJP functionary O P Jha had deposited Rs one crore in party account in West Bengal in currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 on November 8, shortly before the Prime Minister announced their demonetisation.
Mamata Banerjee, who has been in touch with various parties on the issue, including arch rival CPI(M), slammed Modi for his remarks that poor are enjoying a sound sleep after demonetisation, saying it was an "insult" to the common people. "The PM in his speech said that the poor are sleeping peacefully. This is an insult to commoners and in bad taste," the TMC supremo said in a tweet after Modi's statement in Ghazipur.
"My humble suggestion is not to hit the common people like this," she said. "This will be a killer for the common people. Already a staggering Rs 1.5 lakh crore of GDP has been lost by the economy in only six days," she said in a statement. BSP supremo Mayawati, stung by the apparent reference to her in Modi's "garland of notes" remark, unleashed a no- holds-barred attack on the Prime Minister, saying he cannot tolerate that a "dalit ki beti" is presented such a garland.
"He (Modi) has accepted garland of notes many times. But if a 'dalit ki beti' is offered such a garland, it it does not become palatable for the Prime Minister, it reflects his cheap mentality," she said at a hurriedly convened press conference in Lucknow hours after Modi made the remark at a BJP rally in Ghazipur.
"In order to divert people's attention from his failures, Modi levels baseless allegations against his poltical opponents which is condemnable...allegations on policy matters are different but personal ones should not be made...he cannot tolerate that a dalit ki beti is presented garland of notes," she said, adding one cannot digest what Mayawati wears.
Mayawati said an undeclared "Bharat Bandh" was prevailing in the country where all economic activity has come to a grinding halt due to demonetisation. "Our party welcomes from the heart any strong action for it (against black money) but the present government in the garb of checking black money and corruption has forced the people to face immense hardships," she said.
Mayawati was offered a garland of currency notes at a party rally in Lucknow when she was the chief minister. CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury also sought to pick holes in the demonetisation drive, claiming that Prime Minister's stated objectives including those of tackling corruption will not be achieved with the steps taken.
He also claimed that the BJP-led government had gains in UP election in mind while making the move and reiterated his party's charge that BJP leaders had prior information about the decision, referring to the West Bengal BJP depositing crores "a few hours ahead of Modi's November 8 announcement."
Pakistan today said at least seven of its soldiers were killed in "unprovoked" firing by Indian troops across the LoC following which Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif asserted that the country is "fully capable" of defending its territory against "any aggression".
Seven Pakistani soldiers were killed at the LoC in the Bhimber sector in an alleged ceasefire violation by Indian troops late last night, according to a statement by the army.
Pakistani troops responded to "unprovoked" Indian firing and targeted Indian posts "effectively", it said.
Sharif expressed grief over the loss of lives in the "latest violation of Line of Control (LoC) by the Indian forces" and said "it is extremely unfortunate that Indian forces have continuously violated ceasefire agreement at the LoC in the recent days", Press Information Department Pakistan said.
"We are fully capable of defending our soil against any aggression," it quoted Sharif as saying.
The Prime Minister also claimed that the Indian forces have resorted to escalating tension on the LoC only to "uselessly divert" the world's attention from the "grave human rights situation" in Kashmir.
So far, mostly civilian have been killed in the firing on Pakistani side of the LoC.
Pakistan Foreign Office last week said that the civilian death toll from alleged Indian shelling has risen to at least 25 in the past few weeks.
Banks across several states remained closed today being a public holiday further escalating the six-day cash crisis following the withdrawal of high-value notes and exacerbating the agony of those in desperate need to get even small amounts of money.
Though banks were open mainly in the southern states there was no relief for people as they had to wait for hours to get new notes or deposit the scrapped currency.
Cash-strapped people started making a beeline outside ATMs from early morning but with limited success as most of the cash vending machines are running dry and werent refilled with money.
People queued up outside ATMs early in the morning but had to return disappointed as shutters at many locations were down amid growing scuffles and heated exchanges. Today was a holiday on the occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti.
Patience of citizens wore thin as people continued to face hardship in withdrawing cash from ATMs, braving long queues, accessing health facilities at hospitals and commuting in public transport in the national capital on a bank holiday that added to their woes.
Many sections of the society including grocery shop owners, small traders, restaurant owners, are further feeling the heat as their dependence on cash is very high.
Commuters also had a harrowing time, as lack of Rs 100 notes continued to cripple transaction with taxi operators, auto-rickshaw drivers and other public transport providers.
A pre-paid city-run taxi counter at Delhi Airport, which other wise draws good number of passengers, today wore a deserted look.
"People are not coming to book 'kali-pili' taxis with us, as they do not have ready cash, and we are not in a position to accept Rs 500 or Rs 1,000 notes," a staff at the counter said.
"This is becoming unbearable now. How long can we afford to be in the queue to get money which we toiled to earn. My family is on the verge of starvation," said Damodar Kamble, who tried his luck to exchange money this morning at an ATM in suburban Vikhroli in Mumbai.
Many customers made it to ATMs as early as 5 AM in anticipation of procuring few precious Rs 100 notes. There were also reports that many ATMs ran out of cash within hours of becoming operational.
A housewife in Kurla, Shweta, said, "This has become a horror. It's sad..people are dying, fighting while waiting in queues."
Banks and ATMs across Tamil Nadu continued to witness long queues of people waiting to exchange defunct Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes and withdraw cash today even as bankers and post office personnel struggled to ease the situation.
Angry customers who were waiting for long hours to withdraw cash, pelted stones at an ATM in suburban Ponneri in Chennai as it ran out of cash, police said.
In Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah took stock of the prevailing situation in the state in the wake of demonetisation of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes by the central government.
Donald Trump's victory in presidential polls may deter or restrict international students coming to the US for higher education and threaten the estimated USD 35 billion it adds to the American economy, experts have warned. After a caustic presidential campaign and Trump's vows to limit immigration, build a Mexican border wall and force Muslims to register, experts in higher education sector are bracing for a backlash among students who see the US as a less welcoming destination.
Surveys of international students conducted during the presidential campaign suggested that many would be less interested in coming to the US if Trump were to become president. For example, a survey of 40,000 students from 118 countries conducted by the international student recruiting companies FPP EDU Media and Instead found that 60 per cent said theyd be less inclined to come to the US if Trump were to win, compared with just 3.8 per cent who said theyd be less inclined if his opponent Hillary Clinton won.
The number of international students at US colleges and universities has hit a record high, but experts suggest that Trump's election may slow the growth of this market and threaten the estimated USD 35 billion it adds annually to the American economy. For the first time, the number of international students at US universities exceeded a million last year, according to new figures from the Institute of International Education.
The total of about 1,044,000 was up 7 per cent from 2014-15. China and India remained the top two sources of international students, but Saudi Arabiabolstered by a government-funded scholarship programmepassed South Korea to pull into third on the list.
"I think America is going to continue to welcome international students, international students are going to continue to want to come here, we will continue to want to send American students abroad as students and cultural ambassadors. I think that international educational exchange is part of the fabric of many societies, including ours," said Allan E Goodman, the president and CEO of the Institute for International Education. The Seattle-based marketing company Study in the USA also surveyed 1,000 prospective international students on the election.
Of 975 responses, 639 said theyd be more likely to study in the US if Clinton were to win, while just 91 said theyd be more likely to come if Trump were elected. "Due to Trumps very explicit racist remarks, I would not feel very comfortable studying in the USA," one respondent said.
If the rise of post-Brexit anti-foreigner attacks in Great Britain is any indication, the experts say, Trump's presidencyand its possible policy implicationscould lead international students to look elsewhere for their educations. Germany, Japan, Taiwan and Canada, meanwhile, have all increased international recruiting.
Hyundai Motor India plans to launch an entry level SUV in the first half of 2019 as it looks to strengthen its presence in the fast growing segment. The company, which today launched all new Tucson with an introductory price ranging between Rs 18.99 lakh and Rs 24.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), has already three SUV models in its portfolio, including Creta and Santa Fe.
"We aim to launch an entry level SUV in the first half of 2019. It will be below Creta. So, we will have four SUVs in our product range," Hyundai Motor India Ltd MD & CEO YK Koo told reporters here. SUV sales have been growing all over the globe, including China and Europe, and is also going to be a very popular segment in India as well, he added.
Hyundai is currently developing a sub 4-metre compact SUV in order to fill the gap that lies below Creta. It had showcased concept compact SUV Carlino at the Auto Expo this year in February. When asked about vehicles with alternate fuels, Koo said the company has asked its global R&D centre to look into possible models for the country.
"Hyundai has strong portfolio of electric and hybrid vehicles. We are planning to unveil a hybrid product during the 2018 Auto Expo," he added. Commenting on the Tuscon launch, he said with the introduction of the SUV the company is aiming to strengthen its presence in the premium segment. The company has set a target of selling 500-700 units of the model per month.
Hyundai has launched the third generation Tucson with both petrol and diesel powertrains. The manual petrol variant is priced at Rs 18.99 lakh while the diesel versions are priced between Rs 21.59 lakh and Rs 23.48 lakh.
The petrol automatic is priced at Rs 21.79 lakh while the one with diesel powertrain is priced at Rs 24.99 lakh. "The launch of third generation all new Tucson will create a benchmark by giving Hyundai experience to the aspirational Indian customers," Koo said. With over 45 lakh units sold globally, Tucson is one of the best selling SUVs in the world, he added.
Tucson comes with 2 litre petrol and diesel engine options and new various features including a puddle lamp, downhill brake control and front and rear parking sensors. The petrol version with manual transmission company comes with 155 PS of power and delivers a fuel efficiency of 13.03 km/ litre. The petrol automatic delivers a fuel efficiency of 12.95 km/ litre.
The diesel variant with manual transmission offers 185 PS of power and a claimed fuel efficiency of 18.42 km/litre. The diesel automatic delivers a fuel efficiency of 16.38 km/ litre.
Two leading bank unions today criticised the government over demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, saying the move has led to "financial chaos" across the country. In a letter to Indian Banks' Association (IBA), All India Bank Officers' Association (AIBOA) and All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA) said the decision to withdraw the high-value notes was taken without proper planning or preparation.
They also highlighted heavy work pressure on employees and officers at bank branches in the wake of demonetisation which has led to customers rushing to exchange the now defunct notes. "Chaotic situation is prevailing at the bank branches and this is unbearable for both customers as well as bank employees and officers," S Nagarajan, General Secretary of AIBOA, and C H Venkatachalam, his counterpart at AIBEA, said in the letter to IBA, the apex body of bank managements.
There is a huge shortage of Rs 100 notes which are now in great demand for routine needs, while most customers are not willing to accept the new Rs 2,000 bill, they said. "The Centre and the Reserve Bank must be fully aware that already there is a huge gap between the indent and supply of Rs 100 notes.
"For example, in 2015-16, as against the indent of 535 crore pieces of Rs 100 notes, the supply received was only to the tune of 490 crore pieces," according to the letter. "One cannot understand the reason behind banning the existing Rs 500 notes and not providing new supply of Rs 500 notes in time," it added.
Most of the 2.20 lakh ATMs across the country are closed or partly functional. This has put additional pressure on the staff and customers are compelled to visit branches to withdraw cash from their accounts, the two unions said.
Nagarajan and Venkatachalam requested the IBA to ensure the RBI supplies adequate cash in denominations of Rs 100 and new Rs 500 notes to ease pressure on banks and provide relief to customers.
Rolling out red carpet to women entrepreneurs, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah today expressed confidence that with several initiatives taken, the state would soon occupy the top slot for women entrepreneurship. He urged women entrepreneurs to explore entrepreneurial opportunities in Karnataka and make the state their base.
"I am happy to note that Karnataka's diversity ratio in employment and entrepreneurship is amongst the best in India. Our eco-system is regarded as the benchmark for women to live and work and I am happy that we are in the right direction," Siddaramaiah said at the event "ThinkBig 2016".
He said that according to the fourth Medium, Small and Micro Enterprises (MSME) census, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal have 51.9 per cent of the country's women-owned business indicating the potential that exists in our State and country. "I am sure with the initiatives taken up, Karnataka would soon be in the top slot...," he said.
"ThinkBig 2016", which is projected to be Asia's largest women entrepreneurship and economic empowerment summit, is being organised by Karnataka government, together with WEConnect International in India and Thinkthrough Consulting (TTC).
According to the organisers, the event is aimed at bringing together more than 2,000 women entrepreneurs, 300 Industry leaders and 400 businesses and 35 top banks to connect women entrepreneurs across the globe with the "thriving" business ecosystem in Karnataka.
Speaking on special attention being given to women entrepreneurs to encourage enterprise creation and industrial capacity building, he said, there has been unprecedented response from them.
"Initially we thought of developing one Women's Park at Harohally near Bangalore. But, surprisingly there was a great response from all over the State to set up parks for women. Going by the enthusiasm generated amongst women entrepreneurs, I am sure we would have Women's Park all over the State soon," he added.
China today cautiously backed India-Japan nuclear deal signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Tokyo visit, saying all countries are entitled for peaceful use of nuclear energy if they meet the international non-proliferation obligations.
Beijing also reacted mildly to the references to South China Sea in the India-Japan joint statement, reiterating its earlier stand that countries outside the region should respect efforts made by China and other contestants to resolve the dispute.
"With regard to nuclear agreement signed between India and Japan and on the use nuclear energy, we believe that under the promise of absorbing international obligation of nuclear non-proliferation, all countries are entitled to the peaceful use of nuclear energy," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told media briefing here.
"At the same time, the relevant cooperation should be conducive to safeguard the authority and effectiveness of the international nuclear non-proliferation regime," he said.
Contrary to the write-ups in the official media here prior to the recent signing of the civil nuclear deal, Geng made no reference to the media criticism of Japan selling its nuclear technology shedding its past objections.
Japan has traditionally adopted a tough stand on proliferation issues having been the only victim of atomic bombings at Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II. India is the first country which has not signed nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) with which Japan has signed the civil nuclear agreement.
China opposes India's entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), citing India's refusal to sign NPT. An article in the state-run Global Times earlier criticised Japan for relaxing its rules to sign civil nuclear deal for India and said that selling nuclear technology to New Delhi will "taint Tokyo's reputation of advocating for a nuclear weapons-free world".
About the reference to the South China Sea in the joint statement issued at the end of Modi's visit, Geng said "under the concerted efforts of the countries in the region including China, the situation in the South China Sea is developing in a positive direction".
"We have been repeating that we should come back to the right track of peacefully resolving the relevant dispute through negotiations and consultations. "We hope that the countries outside the region would respect efforts made by countries in the region and safeguard as well as consolidate the sound momentum in the South China Sea and and do more that is conducive to regional peace and stability," he said in a cautious response.
On the South China Sea, the joint statement issued by India and Japan said "the two Prime Ministers stressed the importance of resolving the disputes by peaceful means, in accordance with universally recognised principles of international law including the UN Convention on Law of Sea (UNCLOS)".
Ahead of Modi's visit, another Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said China hopes that India and Japan would take into consideration the "legitimate concerns" of their neighbours. China claims the whole of South China Sea. Its claims are disputed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan.
Pakistan on Monday said seven of its soldiers were killed in unprovoked firing by Indian troops across the Line of Control, prompting it to summon the Indian envoy here to warn that New Delhis belligerent attitude may lead to a strategic miscalculation.
Seven Pakistani soldiers were killed at the LoC in the Bhimber sector in a reported ceasefire violation by the Indian troops late on Sunday night, according to a statement by the Pakistan army.
Pakistani troops responded to unprovoked Indian firing and targeted Indian posts effectively, it said.
Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry summoned Indian High Commissioner Gautam Bambawale on Monday and condemned the unprovoked ceasefire violation by the Indian forces.
The foreign secretary deplored the increasing Indian ceasefire violations at the LoC and the working boundary, especially in the past two months. He emphasised that this belligerent attitude of the Indian forces was a serious threat to regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation.
Chaudhry asked the Indian high commissioner to convey to his government that it must stop the provocative firing and observe the ceasefire.
Pakistan is pursuing a policy of restraint, which should not be construed as a sign of weakness, the statement quoted him as saying. He said the armed forces of Pakistan do not initiate fire, but will always respond in a befitting manner if fired upon, the statement said.
It is for the second time in a week that Pakistan has summoned the Indian envoy. Pakistan on November 10 had summoned Bambawale to the Foreign Office to protest the reported ceasefire violations and use of artillery by the Indian forces.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif asserted that his country was fully capable of defending its territory against any aggression.
Sharif expressed grief over the loss of lives in the latest violation of the Line of Control by the Indian forces and said it is unfortunate that the Indian forces have continuously violated the ceasefire agreement at the LoC, said Press Information Department, Pakistan.
Warning from across the border
Pakistan summons Indian envoy second time in a week
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif asserts his country fully capable of defending territory against any aggression
Pak army chief orders effective response to Indian firing
Bangladesh Navy today acquired its first submarines from China, as Dhaka sought to boost its naval power in the resource-rich Bay of Bengal. Bangladesh Navy chief Admiral Nizamuddin Ahmed received the two submarines during a ceremony at Liao Nan Shipyard in northeast China's Liaoning province's Dalian city, the Inter Services Public Relation Directorate spokeswoman Syed Taposhi Rabeya said.
The type 035G class submarines will become part of the country's naval fleet at the beginning of next year, she said. The submarines will be named 'BNS Nabajatra' and 'BNS Joyjatra' respectively, Dhaka Tribune reported. Bangladesh is said to have paid nearly USD 203 million for the two submarines, the report said.
Type 035G-class submarines area, also known as Ming- class, is a class of diesel-electric submarines of China's People's Liberation Army Navy. The primary weaponry for Type 035G is Yu-3 torpedo, and French sonar DUUX-5 and its Chinese-built version were used on later units, 12 of which were completed between 1990 and 1999.
Bangladesh has been expanding its defence capabilities in recent years, building a new airbase close to neighbouring Myanmar, opening several new military cantonments across the country and adding new frigates to its naval fleet.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced the plan to purchase two submarines in 2013 as part of her government's move to build a modern navy to defend the resource-rich Bay of Bengal.
An international tribunal has settled Bangladeshs long- standing maritime border disputes with neighbours Myanmar and India, paving the way for Dhaka to invite bids from multinational firms to explore for oil in the Bay. Bangladeshi officials say that has ensured the country's sovereignty over 111,631sq-km of sea, an area nearly equal to its landmass.
BJP and its allies today strongly backed the government's demonetisation decision on which Prime Minister Narendra Modi ruled out any rethink as the parties prepared to take on the opposition in the winter session of Parliament beginning November 16.
Information and Broadcasting Minister M Venkaiah Naidu told reporters after the meeting that there was no rethink on rendering the high-value currency notes illegal, saying the government's crusade against black money and corruption will be carried to its logical conclusion.
The NDA allies decided that they will take on the opposition parties criticising the demonetisation move by countering each of their allegations during the session.
They also decided not to be defensive as people have supported the decision and are willing to face inconvenience.
Modi received a big thumbs up from NDA allies who threw their weight behind him in supporting the demonetisation move as well as the surgical strikes across LoC in September.
Earlier, Modi got support from his own partymen at the BJP Parliamentary Party meeting which discussed the steps taken by him to curb corruption and black money.
The Prime Minister told the NDA allies that there was no need to be defensive on demonetisation as there is widespread support for the move and people are ready to face hardships for larger gains. He also urged the NDA allies to go to the public and explain its benefits in the long run in curbing corruption and black money.
He told the parties that the credit for the move does not go to him personally but to all parties who have stood by the government, adding he will continue to take the drive forward as the steps taken by him have given hope to people that things will improve.
At the NDA meet, after the introductory remarks by the Prime Minister, Union Minister Ramvilas Paswan congratulated him on the "bold and decisive" step to demonetise high denomination currency notes.
He said it will help reduce the rich-poor divide in the country. Paswan was followed by all other allies who supported the move and lauded the PM for the step, besides the surgical strikes across the LoC.
To show that the NDA was united, the government made leaders of various parties speak to media in support of demonetisation.
The leaders who supported the government include Shiv Sena leader Anandrao Adsul, LJP leader Ramvilas Paswan, SAD leader Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, RLSP leader Upendra Khushwaha and TDP's Thotha Narsimam, besides those from north eastern parties.
"The NDA constituents told the Prime Minister that they will stand by him till the fight against corruption is taken to its logical end. They also appreciated the steps taken by the Finance Ministry to extend help to the people in solving inconvenience cause by the demonetisation decision," Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar said.
He said, "The session will be a befitting forum to tell people about the crusade against corruption and will show which party favours corruption and which is against it."
He said all NDA partners welcomed the move "in one voice" and supported the decision of the government and the Prime Minister to weed out corruption.
Kumar said black money was also being used for anti-India activities and terrorism.
Information and Broadcasting Minister M Venkaiah Naidu said "false propaganda" was being spread to derail the reform process and gave the example of rumours about salt scarcity. He said while the total salt production was 220 lakh tonnes, the domestic consumption was only 60,000 tonnes and thus there was no shortage.
He also rejected the charge made by the opposition that PM Modi had disclosed the demonetisation plan to his partymen and took the opposition by surprise, saying these things have no basis and thus need not be answered.
"Many opposition parties are welcoming the move and if there are some opposing it, it will be known who is standing with the hoarders and the corrupt," Naidu told reporters.
He said in BJP Parliamentary Party and NDA meetings, all have spoken in one voice in favour of the surgical strikes and the "bold, historic step of waging war against corruption and black money."
"Everybody supported the decision and said the government should move forward. They are ready for temporary pain for larger gains. People are not worried but they are looking at larger gains of economy," he said.
BTI Payments, operator of the second largest white lable ATM brand India1, is working overtime to take on the demonetisation challenges, and has made it clear that it is going ahead with its expansion plans.
We have established a war room to take on the challenges as our opreations are in the rural hinterland across the country. Within three days of the announcement of demonetisation, BTI Payments withdrew Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currencies from its 4,200 ATMs across the country, said the company CEO and Managing Director K Srinivas in an interaction with DH.
White label ATMs, which started operation with RBI policy guidelines in June 2012, are non-bank cash machines operated by private companies that essentially operate as outsourcing partners of banks. Indicash, owned by Tata Payment Solutions of Tata Communications, is the biggest white label operator, and currently, 13,000 such ATMs are working across the country.
He said that the companys 100-odd employees are working overtime along with banks, cash-in-trasit companies and IT partners like IBM and Mphasis to make ATMs work seamlessly.
Srinivas said the company is also finding it difficult to source currency. We are currently present in 10 states and source currencies from a dozen banks. But currently, even banks are also finding it difficult to get money, he said.
The BTI Payments chief said the company is changing the cassettes which can accommodate new Rs 500 and Rs 2,000 notes. We do hope recalibration of cassettes will be solved within a week to 10 days, he said.
He pointed out that the company is going ahead with its expansion plan. Within one-and-half years we will reach our target of 9,000 white label ATMs spread across the country. Each ATM will have an approximate investment of Rs 5 lakh to Rs 6 lakh, he said.
To take on the challenges of expansion, the company is ready to increase its headcount as per the requirement.
President Pranab Mukherjees recent three day visit to Nepal was historic. He became the first Indian president in the last 18 years to visit Nepal.
Nepalese President Bidhya Devi Bhandari received and saw his Indian counterpart off at the Tribhuvan international airport. The Nepal government had announced a holiday on Nov 2 on the visit.
Mukherjee held wide-ranging discussions across the Nepals political class, sending a clear and strong message to the people of the Himalayan country that India will support Nepal in its pursuit of peace, stability and development. His message reaffirming New Delhis desire to strengthen the relationship with Nepal has assumed huge significance in the light of the fact that relations between the two countries have been much tensed in the recent past.
This can be gauged from the fact that despite Indias proactive efforts to help Nepal in the aftermath of the earthquake in April 2015, Nepalese recoiled at the presence of Indian media on their soil, charging the Indian government with indulging in a cheap public relations exercise.
In Sept 2015, Nepal accused India of supporting the Madhesi people, who began protesting against the new constitution ad-opted by the Constituent Assembly-II, and blocked all the entry points with India, leading to a huge shortage of essential items including medicines and others.
Then prime minister K P Oli himself accused India of carrying out an unofficial blockade in Nepal. In fact, Oli became so much critical of New Delhi that he started fostering engagement with China during and the post-political crisis.
This shift in Nepals policy became clear when just after his visit to India in February this year, Oli went to China in March and agreed, among several other things, to work with the Chinese government to carry out major projects under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. These developments, in turn, raised serious questions about the Modi governments neighbourhood first policy.
While things did appear to improve in the relationship between New Delhi and Kathmandu, Nepal once again faced the problem of political instability when the Oli government lost a majority in the 601-member parliament.
While the ouster of Oli sent some relief to the Indian government given his tilt towards China, some experts and diplomats expressed apprehension about the future of the relationship between the two countries under the new Nepalese government led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda.
There were indeed some compelling reasons, one being his inclination towards China. His strong clamour for review of all the bilateral treaties with India, including the 1950 India-Nepal friendship treaty, further increased the gulf between the two countries.
However, unlike in the past, Prime Minister Prachandas approach has been highly encouraging for India this time. He has publically acknowledged that Nepals relations with India are unique and their bilateral ties cannot be compared with the relationship between Nepal and any other country including China. He even conceded that it was his political inexperience that prevented him from developing close engagement with India during his earlier tenure as prime minister.
Trust and engagement
Prachandas changed views about New Delhi became very much visible when he visited India in September, after taking over office. These developments indeed provided an opportunity for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to silence his opponents who had argued that his governments policy had completely failed to foster a sense of trust and engagement in the relationship with Kathmandu.
It is in this positive background that President Mukherjees visit to Nepal took place, aiming to use the conducive atmosphere to enhance the bilateral ties. During his visit, Mukherjee conveyed to the Nepali leadership that India was ready to share its experiences in building an inclusive constitution, and that the two countries set up cooperation mechanisms to complete the ongoing infrastructure projects speedily.
He also made several anno-uncements including Indias decision to allow Nepali students to pursue graduate and post-gr-aduate courses in the IITs on a regular basis from 2017 onwar-ds. This in turn would help boost people-people engagement between the two countries.
Another reason for the Modi government to engage Kathmandu at the highest political level is Chinas increasing investment in the infrastructure, energy and other sectors of Nepal. There is a consensus among Indian strategists and experts that as Pakistan already enjoys goodwill with some sections of the Nepalese, Chinas involvement in the Himalayan country could facilitate the emergence of a Ch-ina-Nepal nexus against India.
The Modi government has also realised the need to sustain the dialogue process with Nepal to ensure that the interests of the Madhesi region, which has close cultural and family ties with the people of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, should be reflected in its new constitution.
As the visit of Mukherjee has infused a new momentum into the relationship between the two countries, it should be hoped that his mission of friendship would further direct the two countries to scale up the relationship in the future.
(The writer is with Southern Asia Studies, Pondicherry University)
Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) working president Dinesh Gundu Rao, on Monday, came down strongly on the Prime Minister Narendra Modis decision to demonetise Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes.
Addressing reporters here on Monday, he said, by demonetising the currency notes, the Prime Minister has literally left everyone in the country cash-strapped.
The former minister said, Narendra Modi has been talking about fighting black money, eradicating corruption for a while now. How far it has been successful, he questioned. Those who have black money will not fall into the trap so easily. But, the poor and middle-class people are affected. Modi, who announced the demonetisation of currency notes to control black money, should explain what action he has taken against his party leaders, who are accused in corruption cases, he said.
The authoritative and arbitrary rule of Modi has resulted in a financial crunch in the country. The dramatic speech delivered by him at a meeting on November 13, has exposed his attitude, Dinesh Gundu Rao said.
Unrest in Kashmir valley and killing of soldiers by Pakistan has continued even after the surgical attack by the Indian Army. Modi, in an effort to divert the peoples attention, has made an abrupt and sudden decision to scrap currency notes, he added.
Puppet of Shah
Dinesh Gundu Rao said, the Prime Minister has turned into a puppet in the hands of Amit Shah, national president of BJP. The BJP ministers are not informed, in prior, about the major decisions being taken, he alleged.
Speaking about the Sangh Parivar, he said, they have been disturbing peace in the state and the country. There is a need to educate the people about the divisive forces to save the secular fabric and integrity of the nation, he felt.
Sait episode
Commenting on Tanveer Sait, who is facing allegations of viewing sleazy images on his mobile phone, Dinesh said, stern action would be taken if the minister is found guilty of wathcing pornography during the public function. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will take a decision, he added.
District in-charge Minister A Manju, and MLC M A Gopalaswamy were present.
DH News Service
Prime Minister Narendra Modi invoked Indias first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru on his 127th birth anniversary to hit out at the Congress for ignoring the plight of the poverty-ridden Purvanchal (eastern region of Uttar Pradesh).
Laying the foundation stone for a rail-cum-road bridge over the Ganga in Ghazipur district, a project that was put before Nehru more than five decades ago, Modi said: Your (Nehru) party (Congress) leaders may be levelling false allegations against me, but I have paid you (Nehru) the real tribute on your birth anniversary... No one else has done so, Modi said, addressing a meeting at Ghazipur, about 350 km from Lucknow, on Monday.
Modi said in 1962, the then MP from Ghazipur Vishwanath Singh had narrated the plight of the poverty-ridden region in his speech in the House. The people in this region are so poor that they take out wheat grains from dung, Modi said, quoting Singhs speech.
He said that Nehru, who was the then prime minister, had set up a committee to study the problems of the region. The committee had submitted its report with recommendations. Since then, the state (Uttar Pradesh) gave eight prime ministers to the country. I am the ninth one...nothing was done about the report, Modi said.
Aap (Nehru) to garibon aas ko files mein daba kar chale gaye... mai use pura kar raha hoon, (you left for heavenly abode leaving the report buried under files... I am fulfilling the task). It took more than five decades to fulfil the aspirations of the people of the region, Modi said.
Referring to the likening of the demonetisation to a financial Emergency, the prime minister said that the Congress government had imposed an Emergency in the country, which lasted for 19 months.
The entire country had been turned into a prison. The newspapers were acted against...editors were imprisoned, he said.
Your (Congress) government had also demonetised chavanni (25 paisa coin). Did I question that? You did according to your capability and we did according to ours, he said.
DH News Service
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday ruled out any rollback of the demonetisation of currency notes, despite opposition appeal for giving some relaxation to avoid inconvenience to people.
Modi expressed his governments resolve against black money before the NDA and the BJP parliamentary party executive meetings held separately on Monday evening.
The month-long winter session of Parliament starts from Wednesday. The NDA parliamentary party came out with a resolution to support the Centres decision on currency ban, even though the Shiv Sena and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) have expressed displeasure over the move.
Punjab Deputy CM and SAD leader Sukhbir Badal told a newschannel that though he was with Modi, the crackdown was unworkable and cash crunch was hitting people hard. The rural women were the worst impacted, Badal said.
Modi, who has appealed people to have patience for country's interest, told NDA leaders that he alone wont get credit for the currency ban but also all the political parties which stood by the government on this initiative.
Other than NDA, Odisha ruling BJD and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumars JD(U) have reacted in favour of the Centres move to cleanse finance system.
The party has also decided to argue against opposition parties Congress, TMC, AAP, Left and RJD wanting to raise the issue in the winter session.
There was discussion on taking initiative taken by the government to its logical conclusion. The government will address the nation on this issue through Parliament, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar told reporters after the meeting at the Parliament library got over in the evening.
Union minister M Venkaiah Naidu too made it clear that there is no chance of rethinking on the issue. Kumar also said at the NDA meeting chaired by Modi, all allies extended their support to him on the demonetisation issue.
DH News Service
PM slams Oppn for instigating people
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday accused the Opposition parties of instigating people on the issue of demonetisation, DHNS reports from Lucknow.
He said the poor are with him, even as he urged people to be patient and help him in his fight against the menace of corruption.
Addressing a meeting at Ghazipur, about 350 km from here, Modi said his prescription for eradicating black money from the country was bitter, but it had been liked by the poor though the rich were against it.
Mujhe bachpan se kadak chai banen ki adat hai...garibon ko kadak chai achhi lagti hai, lekin amiron ke taste bigar jata hai (In my childhood, the poor used to tell me to make strong tea... the poor liked it, but the rich found it bitter), he said.
Slamming critics, he said, The poor are sleeping peacefully after the demonetisation decision, but the rich are making rounds of the market looking for sleeping pills.
The Opposition parties on Monday signalled closing of ranks against the Narendra Modi government for putting the common man through unprecedented hardship by demonetising Rs 500 and 1,000 notes and denying full access to his savings.
Arch rivals Trinamool Congress and CPM shook hands at a meeting of the Opposition leaders convened by senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad to work out a joint strategy for the Winter Session of Parliament beginning on Wednesday.
Trinamool leaders Derek OBrien and Sudip Bandopadhyay discussed parliament strategy with Azad, CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury, CPI national secretary D Raja, JD (U) veteran Sharad Yadav, RJDs P C Gupta and YSRCPs Ram Mohan Reddy.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had taken centre stage in countering the Modi government on demonetisation and even sought an appointment with President Pranab Mukherjee to submit a protest memorandum demanding a rollback of the decision.
However, the Left parties appeared uncomfortable to join the coalition led by Banerjee, prompting the Congress to seize the initiative.
In such a case, it is not led by A, B or C. It has to be decided who should go, when to go (to the President), Azad, the leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, told reporters when asked about Trinamools plans to meet President Mukherjee.
The Opposition leaders will meet again on Tuesday afternoon to take a final call on the strategy to be adopted in Parliament. The leaders of the SP, BSP, DMK and the NCP were not present today. They would be coming tomorrow (Tuesday), Raja told reporters.
Prime Minister Modi chaired separate meetings of the BJP Parliamentary Party and NDA leaders and told them not to be defensive over demonetisation. The entire country is with the government, Modi said, urging them to fight the Opposition.
Azad said the Opposition was with the government in its fight against black money, but was opposed to the manner in which demonetisation was being implemented.
The Congress claimed that the BJP had leaked information about the decision to scrap Rs 500 and 1,000 notes to its party units and well-wishers a month in advance.
The government has shut the country, said Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati, while Yechury and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal criticised Modi for saying in a speech that poor people are sleeping peacefully after the decision.
DH News Service
NGOs and human rights organisations have petitioned President Pranab Mukherjee against the possible appointment of a BJP leader, Avinash Rai Khanna, as a member of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
Expressing serious concerns, the All India Network of NGOs and Individuals, working with National and State Human Rights Institutions (AINNI), said any candidate who is part of a political party should not be appointed a member of the NHRC, as it is responsible for examining complaints of rights violation by functionaries of the government.
Appointing a member of the ruling political party to the NHRC would also affect the very integrity, credibility and authority of the institution meant to protect human rights of citizens, it said in a memorandum to Mukherjee.
Urging the Presidents intervention, it wanted Mukherjee to direct the appointment committee to ensure that due process of appointment to NHRC is followed.
The memorandum came against the backdrop of reports that Khanna has been cleared by a selection committee comprising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and opposition leaders in Parliament among others. The memorandum also noted that never in the past 23 years has there been a civil society representative appointed in this position and the last woman member in the NHRC had completed her term in 2004. This goes against the principles of plurality and diversity in composition as mentioned in the UN Paris Principles, it said.
The appointment of Mr Khanna, an office-bearer in the current ruling political party and a former member of the Upper House of Parliament, sends a wrong message to the people of India and challenges the independence of the NHRC, they said.
This appointment is contrary to the universally accepted human rights standards evolved under the aegis of the United Nations. It is also detrimental to the functioning and reputation of the NHRC and such measures lead to the formation of a serious trust deficit in the institution itself. It will erode the public faith in the institution, which has been declining steadily over the past 10 years, it added.
Union ministers from Karnataka and senior BJP leaders may not attend the wedding of former minister and mining baron Janardhana Reddys daughter Brahmani, which will be held at Palace Grounds in Bengaluru on Wednesday.
The party leadership felt that the leaders should stay away from the lavish wedding as it would send wrong signals at a time when people are standing in long queues to exchange money following demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes. However, it was not clear whether any direction has been given to the party leaders. I have decided not to attend the wedding in the current situation, said a Union minister.
When our government is fighting against black money, we should not attend any big event, he added.
Busy in session
The Union ministers will also be busy with the Parliaments winter session beginning on November 16.
Janardhana Reddy, who is facing cases related to illegal mining and has been released on bail, has invited all senior leaders of the party and some Union ministers to the
wedding.
All bulk drug consignments from China are under the scanner of the Drugs Controller General of India because of their poor quality and invalid documents.
Last week, the health ministry changed its rules to allow import of drugs through two new sea ports Krishnapatnam in Andhra Pradesh and Hazira port in Gujarat as well as handling the material at Khohdiyar inland container depot in Gandhinagar following the recommendations of an expert panel.
The move would increase the work load of Central Drug Standards and Control Organisation (CDSCO), which is keeping a close eye on the active pharmaceutical ingredients (API), also known as bulk drugs, imported from China. Out of 2,000 types of API imported in India, more than 60% are from China. Most of the cases of sub-standard drugs, drugs with dubious origin or suspected label are coming from China. To check such infiltration, we have put China on the radar, said a CDSCO official seeking anonymity.
The special watch on Chinese imports was initiated in the recent months after the drug regulator found several deviations, including fake certificates of good manufacturing practices, spurious materials, and quality failures in Chinese consignments.
A government plan to set up a CDSCO branch office in China with four inspectors for auditing the material bound for India could not be realised as Beijing denied permission.
Now we found clandestine (Chinese) operators pushing spurious or poor quality drugs labelled under the name of authorised importers which compromise patients safety. It is often found that the drugs are not sourced from the original manufacturers, whose names are referred to in the documents, a source said.
Some of the fraudulent consignment cases were referred to the Central Bureau of Investigation for prosecution.
The CDSCO created a new risk-linked drug inspection mechanism to selectively pick drug samples imported for inspection. Many risks were identified with Chinese API, the official said.
While most of the bulk drugs are imported through 14 major ports, the Drugs Technical Advisory Board in February 2015 cleared the new ports and the container depot to receive the imported consignments carrying drugs.
DH News Service
While most of the bulk drugs are imported through 14 major ports, the Drugs Technical Advisory Board in February 2015 cleared the new ports and the container depot to receive the imported consignments carrying drugs
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday defended Primary and Secondary Education Minister Tanveer Sait who has come under attack from the Opposition parties for reportedly watching sleazy pictures on mobile phone during Tipu Jayanti in Raichur November 10.
Prima facie it appears that he (Sait) has not committed any mistake. The minister has explained to me that he was going through updates on Tipu Jayanti celebrations held in Mysuru, Kodagu and other districts, Siddaramaiah told reporters after participating in Jawaharlal Nehru birth anniversary celebrations at the Vidhana Soudha here.
He said that he has directed the cyber crime wing of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to look into the charges against Sait. Appropriate action will be taken based on the CID report, he added.
Opposition parties, the BJP and the JD(S), have been demanding that the chief minister should immediately drop Sait from the Cabinet.
Asked whether he has submitted a report to the Congress high command on the issue, Siddaramaiah said Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president G
Parameshwara has apprised the high command of the matter.
State Congress leaders were in for embarrassment when one of the party workers openly condemned Sait for reportedly watching sleazy pictures and demanded action against him.
Congress worker Manjula Nagaraj said that the party was once led by great leaders such as Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi.
The Congress should take action against Sait without any delay, she said at the top of her voice when the party leaders had gathered to celebrate the birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru at the KPCC office.
Parameshwara immediately said that appropriate action will be taken by the party.
Crop loss relief
Siddaramaiah said that he would write another letter to the Centre seeking its immediate intervention to provide relief to the state farmers who have suffered heavy crop damages due to both drought and flood conditions.
As many as 139 taluks are reeling under drought, and the state has already submitted memorandums to the Centre.
Dr A V V Lakshmi, a professor of gynaecology, and her husband Vijayasaradhi, who were on the run since October 25 following the death of postgraduate medical student B Sandhya Rani (27), were arrested in Bengaluru on Monday.
Sandhya had committed suicide by injecting herself a lethal dose of anesthetic drug, alleging harassment by Dr Lakshmi who was teaching at Guntur Government Medical College. In a diary, Sandhya accused her of harassment.
She had also written separate letters to her husband, a pediatrician, her two brothers and the police in which she mentioned Dr Lakshmi several times.
Police also arrested a realtor Tella Haribabu of Guntur who reportedly helped the couple to escape to Puducherry after Sandhyas death.
The couple had discarded their mobile phones and SIM cards and avoided using debit/credit cards all these days, DySP Guntur (West)
M Saritha said.
The two were caught while they were traveling in a car.
The state government will waive interest on farm loans if defaulting farmers pay the principal till March next year.
Speaking after inaugurating a programme to mark the 63rd All-India Co-operation Week here on Monday, Co-operation Minister H S Mahadeva Prasad said that the state government had waived Rs 2.66 crore borrowed by farmers to sink borewells in case the borewells did not yield water.
By disbursing Rs 10,400 crore, Karnataka stands second in the country in terms of extending financial assistance through co-operative institutions. Madhya Pradesh tops the country by disbursing Rs 11,000 crore as short-term crop loans, the minister said.
Calling upon people of all sections of society to participate in the co-operative movement, the minister said that at present 3.60 lakh BPL cardholders and 3.34 lakh Scheduled Castes/Tribes were involved in the co-operation movement. He said that sector had been functioning in a transparent manner and there was still room for improving its performance.
Sahakara Ratna awards were conferred on S R Lakshmikantha Reddy, the president of Merchants Souharda Sahakara Bank, Chitradurga; Shivanagouda S Biradar, director of Karnataka State Co-operative Federation; T M Chanrashekharaiah, vice president of Karnataka State Co-operative Apex Bank and M N Ashwathanarayana, a retired official of the department of co-operation. Minister for Higher Education Basavaraj Raya Raddi, Lok Sabha member Sanganna Karadi and MLA K Ragh-avendra Hitnal were present.
President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday chose Reince Priebus, the chairman of the Republican National Committee and a loyal campaign adviser, to be his White House chief of staff, turning to a Washington insider whose friendship with the House speaker, Paul Ryan, could help secure early legislative victories.
In selecting Priebus, Trump passed over Stephen Bannon, a right-wing media provocateur.
But the president-elect named Bannon his senior counselor and chief West Wing strategist, signaling an embrace of the fringe ideology long advanced by Bannon and a continuing disdain for the Republican establishment.
The dual appointments with Bannon given top billing in the official announcement instantly created rival centres of power in the Trump White House.
Bannons selection demonstrated the power of grass-roots activists who backed Trumps candidacy.
Some of them have long traded in the conspiracy theories and sometimes racist messages of Breitbart News, the website that Bannon ran for much of the last decade.
Bannon brings to the post a background that includes misdemeanor charges of domestic violence and allegations that he threatened his wife with retribution if she testified in the criminal case, according to a police report and court records.
The grass-roots activists may be angered by the selection of Priebus as chief of staff, viewing him as a deal-maker who will be too eager to push the new president toward compromise on issues like taxes, immigration, trade, healthcare and environment.
In a statement on Sunday afternoon, the transition team emphasised that the two men would work as equal partners to transform the federal government. The arrangement appeared aimed at ensuring that both men would be required to sign off on many decisions jointly. And Bannon was assured that he reports directly to Trump, not to Priebus.
The simultaneous announcement and competing lines of authority are consistent with Trumps management style in his businesses and in his campaign: creating rival power structures beneath him and encouraging them to battle it out.
It is also a reflection of who has the ear of the president-elect: his children, and especially his eldest daughter, Ivanka Trump, and her husband, Jared Kushner. Both had argued that the chief of staff job should not be held by someone too controversial, according to several people familiar with the decision-making inside the transition effort. Kushner is likely to wield great influence over the new president regardless of whether he holds a formal title.
The New York Times
China has again prodded India to sign a new Code of Conduct for Border Control even as it remained non-committal on demarcating the de facto boundary between the two nations.
New Delhi is cautiously assessing if the proposed code of conduct would in any way restrict itself from building infrastructure along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), which acts as a de facto border between India and China in the absence of a mutually agreed boundary, sources told DH.
China renewed its push for the code of conduct during its recent engagements with India.
President Pranab Mukherjees meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on May 26 saw China stressing the need for improving the management of its border with India and upgrading measures to maintain peace and tranquillity along the LAC.
Xi raised the issue again during his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the BRICS (a bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) summit in Goa.
Chinas State Councillor Yang Jiechi suggested discussion on the Code of Conduct when he had a meeting with Modis National Security Advisor Ajit Doval in Hyderabad on November 4.
Doval and Yang are at present Special Representatives of India and China for negotiations on boundary dispute and strategic consultations. Their discussion in Hyderabad on November 4, however, focused more on ironing out the newer wrinkles in bilateral relations. They agreed to hold the 20th round of boundary negotiation in New Delhi next year.
An official told DH that the recent standoff between border guards of India and China on the LAC at Demchok in Jammu and Kashmir could be a ploy by Beijing to nudge New Delhi to agree on a Code of Conduct on Border Control. The standoff at Demchok started after the border guards of China protested against a project to build an irrigation canal in the territory claimed by India. Sources in New Delhi said India was not averse to discussing a new document to ensure peace and tranquillity along the disputed LAC with China, but it would do so only after ensuring that its sovereign right to develop infrastructure on its territory remained protected.
DH News Service
Despite the over four-month unrest, opposition from separatists and fear of appearing unprepared for exams, nearly 95% students across Kashmir took their Class XII board examinations on Monday.
Out of 31,964 students enrolled for appearing in the examination, 30,213 appeared in todays (Monday) paper at 484 exam centres across the Valley, Zahoor Ahmad Chatt, chairman of Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education, told reporters.
He said 98% students appeared in the exams in south Kashmirs Anantnag district, which remained the epicentre of the ongoing unrest. Authorities had made elaborate security arrangements for the smooth conduct of the examinations as there was apprehension of violence.
Among the students who opted for the November session instead of March, despite schools remaining closed for four months, were thousands of girls. Who would miss the opportunity of 50% rebate in syllabus? one girl told DH outside Kothi Bagh Higher Secondary School in Srinagar.
We had not even covered 50% of the syllabus. It is an effort on our part to take the exam for 50% syllabus, Saba, another student, said.
Nearly one lakh students are scheduled to take the boards, amid heightened security arrangements. Over the past month, a debate was raging on whether the exams should be held now or in March.
While the government was for holding the exams in November, some of the students, backed by separatist groups, were protesting against the decision and wanted it to be conducted in March.
The government, however, said that those students who are unable to appear for the exams in November can take it in March, but with the full syllabus.
The schools in the Valley went on a two-week summer holiday on July 1, but could not resume functioning due to the unrest, which was triggered following the killing of Hizbul commander Burhan Wani on July 8.
More than 30 schools have been torched over the past two months. Most of the buildings were gutted mysteriously after the state government started, in futility, efforts to resume school and college work.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday urged the Centre to take immediate measures to introduce Rs 500 currency notes to provide relief to the common man.
In a three-page letter to the Union Finance Minister Arund Jaitely, he said people are facing problems due to non-availability of currency notes of smaller denominations.
Release of Rs 2,000 currency notes has not mitigated the problems of people. Hence, they are struggling to get smaller denomination notes by standing in long queues, he added.
The chief minister has suggested that the time limit for use of old currency notes for exempted categories be extended till December 30. It can be done as people have been already given time till December-end to exchange old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes.
Use of old currency notes should be allowed not only in government hospitals and pharmacies but also in private hospitals, diagnostics labs and blood banks.
Priority counters
If that is not found feasible, then banks may be directed to set up a priority counter designated for payment to these institutions using old currency based on the authentication, he added.
Steps should be taken to ensure supply of cash to co-operative banking institutions as farmers are dependent on them. Besides, minimum withdrawal limits for registered traders and commission agents of the APMC markets may be enhanced to enable them to pay small and marginal farmers, Siddaramaiah suggested.
Earlier, speaking to reporters after participating in Jawaharlal Nehru birth anniversary at the Vidhana Soudha here, the chief minister said people are facing lot of inconvenience as the Centre failed to take precautionary measures.
State Congress president G Parameshwara hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for inconvenience caused to people by demonetising Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes, saying that measures being taken by the Centre are taking a toll on the countrys economy.
Nobody is against bringing in changes. We dont oppose actions against black money. But, there is no place for
dictatorship in democracy. The economy has been badly affected due to Modis
decisions, Parameshwara stated.
Speaking to reporters after taking part in Jawaharlal Nehru birth anniversary programme at the KPCC office, he said that a child lost its life in Hyderabad as its parents could not get cash to pay for the treatment.
Members of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) will go on strike across the country on Wednesday in protest against the draft National Medical Commission (NMC) Bill which proposes to replace the Medical Council of India (MCI).
In Bengaluru, close to 300 doctors associated with the IMA will protest in front of Mahatma Gandhi statue, Maurya Circle, from 11 am to 1 pm, and then submit a memorandum to the chief minister, the health minister and the governor. Dr K K Aggarwal, secretary general, IMA, said protests would be held in every district in the country. The IMA says the bill is against democracy. No one can convert a regulatory body into a nominated body. The proposed bill provides for establishing a nominated body in place of the MCI. This is unacceptable, he said.
Doctors also want a Central law to protect medical professionals from violence while they are on duty. Opposing a provision in the draft bill that states that even a single-doctor clinic must register separately, Aggarwal said, If clinics are to be treated as an establishment, they will have to follow the corporate structure. Why have another registration under the Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2010, when a doctor already has one under the State Medical Council, he asked.
Doctors are also opposing another provision in the draft bill that states that there shall be no penalisation for clerical mistakes in various acts such as the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act. Besides, compensation (fee) must not to be decided by the income of the patient to avoid any discrimination in the treatment of the poor and the rich, the IMA said.
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has called a special session of the Delhi Assembly on Tuesday to discuss the crisis resulting from Prime Minister Narendra Modis decision to demonetise of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500.
He pulled out Rs 250 from his pocket to highlight the cash crunch that people, including him, are facing due to the Centres poor planning to implement the November 8 demonetisation that has forced people to queue up outside banks and ATMs.
The revenue department may see if it is possible to offer free meals for those who were being forced to go without food due to problems related to exchange of currency notes, he told reporters.
Poor people are losing sleep over exchanging currency notes. Only Modiji's friends are having good sleep," Kejriwal said.
He pointed to the plight of farmers and traders suffering due to cash crunch and questioned why the country's 125 crore people were being targeted instead of the few lakhs allegedly possessing black money.
Slamming the Centre for the hardships being faced by the public, Kejriwal said the Delhi government has decided to deploy civil defence volunteers for offering water and assistance to people waiting outside banks and ATMs.
The AAP leader repeated his demand for a roll back of demonetisation and said Modi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley have let down people due to poor plan to execute the scheme. Complete anarchy all over. But Modi is very stubborn. He will not change even if the country suffers, said Kejriwal in a tweet later.
Kejriwal also expressed his willingness to discuss a joint strategy against the demonetisation along with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday.
How are the traders going to continue their business when the withdrawal limit is so low. What about the farmers who are supposed to harvest their crop in the next one week, he asked.
Leader of Opposition in Assembly Vijender Gupta of the BJP expressed surprise on calling of the special session of Assembly on Tuesday.
Convening of special session by the Delhi government without duly informing the members, despite Monday being public holiday, is totally in violation of dignity and decorum of the House, he said.
DH News Service
Gupta said the Centres demonetisation step is a bold initiative to bring back thousands of millions of black money but the AAP came to power in the name of ending corruption has taken no step to eradicate it during last 20 months.
He said the BJP will expose every political conspiracy of the Delhi government and give a befitting response to their moves which damage the initiative of Prime Minister Narender Modi to eradicate corruption in the country.
Fourteen-year-old Nithin H A from Arameri village in Kodagu who received the Hoysala Bravery award for rescuing his friend, Sufiyan, from drowning has only one regret. I could not save Salahuddin who had also fallen in.
The two boys had accidentally fallen into the pond when Nithin acted swiftly, extending his umbrella and pulling Sufiyan in. Unfortunately, his umbrella broke and he could not rescue Salahuddin.
Nithin was presented the award at a ceremony organised by the Department of Women and Child Development in Jawahar Bal Bhavan, where children from across the state were felicitated for their achievements.
Four other children- Sukanya K S from Bagepalli, Chiranth D R from Shikaripur, Shreyas N Rao and Shashikumar G M from Mysuru- were conferred with the Hoysala and Keladi Chennamma awards for their presence of mind to save the lives of others. They each received a cash prize of Rs 10,000, a memento, citation and a medal.
Exceptional talent in the fields of art, sports, music, culture, innovation and scholastics was recognised through the Exceptional Achievement Award presented to 17 children, who had been recommended by the state government for the National Award.
Seema Ningappa Shettar from Indiranagar, Bengaluru, realised that rural schools lacked funds for lab equipment like microscopes. In the regular microscope, only one person can view the specimen at a time. So I made a digital microscope which uses a mobile camera and a convex lens. It is much cheaper than other microscopes. she explained. The Class 9 students innovation won her the fifth-place at Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE), organised by Ministry of Science and Technology.
The Department also conferred Child Welfare Awards on four individuals and four institutions for their commendable service in the field of child welfare.
Akshara Foundation, Bengaluru; Anthyodaya Social Service Society, Bagalkot; Margadarshi Society, Kalaburagi and Parents Association of Deaf Children received the award which carried a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh, a memento and a citation. Srirama Reddy from Byrapalli, Kolar, Sridhara Hande from Udupi, Nagarathna Sunila from Belagavi and Santhosh Bapu from Bidar received the award for their work in education, arts and healthcare for children. They received cash prize of Rs 25,000 each.
Guest lecturers working in 412 government first-grade colleges across the state would go on protest on Tuesday seeking better job security and higher pay.
Out of 14,531 guest lecturers under the association, 4,000 of them have decided to boycott invigilation duty for the ongoing degree exams. Srinivasachar N, president, Karnataka Association of Guest Lecturers of First Grade Colleges, said that even as the exams might not be disrupted completely, not all invigilators would report to work.
We are seeking job security. Besides this, a hike is also overdue. We have given representations to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah twice. However, there has been no response. When we met him, he had assured us that he would look into the matter once the Cauvery issue is sorted out. There has been no communication yet, he added.
The guest lecturers were also assured that a committee comprising writer Baragur Ramachandrappa, IAS officer Bharat Lal Meena and representatives from the association would be formed to look into this. This is yet to materialise.
Srinivasachar argued that Haryana, Tripura and Delhi have regularised guest lecturer posts. Also, he said that there was disparity in pay. While in the other states, guest lecturers earn between Rs 22,000 and Rs 25,000, those in Karnataka are paid between Rs 9,500 and 11,500. The state government is saving Rs 1.5 crore a month through this.
Salary not paid.
Srinivasachar said that even as it is the fifth month of the academic year, guest lecturers have not received even a months pay. The chief minister speaks of delivering social justice. Nothing can be more unjust than this. How can we run a household with this pay? Srinivasachar questioned.
Guest lecturers will take part in a protest rally on Tuesday starting from the City Railway Station. They would then lay siege to the chief ministers residence.
Mayor G Padmavathi took BBMP chief engineer Siddegowda
to task for the choked stormwater drain near the Gaali Anjaneya temple
on Monday.
Padmavathi visited Gaali Anjaneya Temple following complaints that the desilting of the stormwater drain has not been carried out for quite long time. The choked drain is responsible for the flooding in the temple. After giving an earful to Siddegowda, she directed him to remove the silt at the earliest.
Regarding the effluent treatment plant to stop sewage flowing into the drain, officials told the Mayor that the Palike has paid the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) Rs 25 lakh for the plant, but the work has not started yet. She told officials to pursue the matter with the board and get the work completed.
Padmavathi also visited the underpass near the KHB Colony in Govindarajnagar which is going on at a snail's pace. Corporator of the ward Umesh Shetty sought the Mayor's intervention to complete the project. Irked with the complaint, the Mayor sternly warned the officials to finish the work at the earliest. Chief engineer of Palike's project division, K T Nagaraj, told the Mayor that the work would be over by April.
The Mojo on the Mojave
American Apparel , which announced last week that its UK business was going into administration, has filed for bankruptcy in the US for the second time in just over a year.
The group voluntarily filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and will continue to trade as it negotiates a possible sale of its assets to Canadian clothes manufacturer Gildan Activewear.
Gildan said on Monday that it has entered into an agreement to buy the worldwide intellectual property rights to the American Apparel brand and certain assets from the fashion company for around $66m in cash.
Gildan will also separately purchase inventory from American Apparel to ensure a seamless supply of goods in the printwear channel as it integrates the brand within its Printwear business.
However, Gildan will not be purchasing any retail store assets.
The closing of the transaction is subject to approvals by the American Apparel bankruptcy process and customary conditions, and is expected to occur in the first quarter of next year.
Gildan said: The American Apparel brand is a highly recognised brand among consumers and within the North American printwear channel. The American Apparel brand would represent a strong complementary addition to the company's portfolio of brands.
The acquisition will create revenue growth opportunities by leveraging Gildan's extensive distribution network in North American and international printwear markets to further increase the brand's penetration in the faster growing fashion basics segments of these markets. In addition, with American Apparel's strong heritage as a consumer brand, the company will evaluate potential wholesale opportunities for leveraging the brand within its Branded Apparel business.
Barack Obama 's last foreign visit as president of the United States will be focused on cash-strapped Greece , and he said on Sunday that the country needs to receive "meaningful debt relief" in order to ensure stability in the eurozone.
The European Union is coming under increasing pressure following Britain's anticipated exit from the bloc, and Greece is still reeling from a debt crisis which has left its finances crippled.
Many European leaders have argued intensely about the correct manner in which to approach the Greek issue, but outgoing president Obama says it is clear that further relief is the only method which guarantees a return to prosperous times for Greece.
"I am a strong believer that to make reforms sustainable, people need hope," he told the Greek newspaper Kathimerini. "The International Monetary Fund has said that debt relief is crucial to put Greece's economy on a sustainable path and set the stage for a return to prosperity."
Other leaders have called for fundamental reform of economic legislation in Greece, but Obama added that this must be kickstarted with a nominal writedown. National debt currently stands at 330bn, 180% of its GDP.
"I will continue to urge Greece's creditors to take the steps needed to ensure the country is well placed to return to robust economic growth, including by providing meaningful debt relief," he said in the interview.
"Getting that done would not only fuel the Greek economic recovery, it would show that Europe can make its economy work for everyone."
Obama's visit will come at a time when he perhaps has the least power available to a president, known as the "lame duck period" while the newly-elected Donald Trump waits to take over.
Trump may not be so conciliatory towards Greece's debt problems when he moves into the Oval Office in January of next year, having espoused various isolationist policies during his election campaign.
Richard Branson has warned that if Donald Trump were to introduce all the policies that he maintained during his presidential election campaign in the US there would be disastrous consequences.
The owner of the Virgin Group told Fortune that perhaps the most worrying aspect of a Trump victory is his attitude towards climate change, but if he chooses to surround himself with "decent people", then he can be a success during his four-year term.
"What I pray is that he surrounds himself with decent people, and that he will want a presidency that he can be proud of," Branson said during the interview.
"He's going to have to compromise, because if he pursues the policies he talked about when he was elected, I think it would backfire horribly."
He added that it now becomes the responsibility of business leaders to ensure that investment in clean energy and the fight against climate change continues, despite Trump's apathy towards the issue.
"When you have a new government that doesnt believe in global warming, it's going to be up to us business people to make sure we create tens of thousands of jobs in the clean energy space," Branson said.
The Paris Agreement came into effect earlier this month, but Trump has suggested that he may pull the United States out of the ground-breaking accords, putting the deal in jeopardy.
Markets in Asia finished mixed on Monday, with Japan leading the region as the yen weakened and Tokyo released some positive economic data, while a series of deadly earthquakes saw the New Zealand dollar face a volatile session.
The Nikkei 225 was up 1.71% to 17,672.62, with the yen remaining weaker against the greenback - it was last 1.21% weaker at JPY 107.94 per $1.
During the session, Japans third quarter gross domestic product numbers were released, showing the domestic economy grew 2.2% year-on-year.
That was more than double the Reuters-polled estimate for a 0.9% uptick.
On the mainland, the Shanghai Composite was up 0.44% at 3.210.10, and the Shenzhen Composite added 0.3% at 2,144.30.
There was mixed economic data out of Beijing during the session, with fixed asset investment rising ahead of market expectations in the year-to-date to October, by 8.3%.
Industrial output and retail sales both missed forecasts for October, at 6.1% and 10% respectively, compared to Reuters-polled estimates for 6.2% and 10.7% growth.
Chinese conglomerate LeEco broke its losing streak on Monday, settling up 1.77%.
The technology firm had faced pressure in recent weeks, after its founder wrote to staff admitting the wide-reaching operation was facing cash shortages and funding problems.
Hong Kongs Hang Seng Index was down 1.37% at 22222.22, while South Koreas Kospi finished down 0.51% at 1,974.40, as the countrys presidential crisis grew.
Hundreds of thousands of protestors took to the streets over the weekend, calling for president Park Geun-hye to step down after she admitted to allowing private individuals to influence her.
The markets were still focused on a different president, however, with analysts pointing to evidence investors were taking a gentle approach to reacting to his taking over of the reins.
The market will remain alert to any news on President-elect Trump's policies and possible appointments, noted National Australia Banks co-head of FX strategy Ray Attrill.
In this regard we may be due for something of a reality check.
Oil prices were lower towards the end of Asian trading hours, with Brent crude last down 0.31% at $44.61 and West Texas Intermediate losing 0.44% at $43.22 per barrel.
In Australia, the S&P/ASX 200 was off 0.47% at 5,345.70, with the hefty financials and materials subindexes dragging on the benchmark, down 0.53% and 1.31% respectively.
Of the major banks, Australia and New Zealand Banking Group and Westpac Banking Corporation both went ex-dividend, sending their shares down 1.45% and 3.17% respectively.
The sunburnt countrys gold miners were also softer, with Evolution Mining plummeting 9.65%, Newcrest Mining off 7.08% and Northern Star Resources sliding 9.16%.
It was a continuation of the losses seen in the safe haven metal since late last week, when golds appeal faded as the markets realised a hasty reaction to Donald Trumps win in the US presidential election was unwarranted.
The ASX gold subindex was down 7.94% for the session.
New Zealands markets were quite literally shaken up after an extraordinary series of earthquakes rocked much of the country - with the most violent tremors focused on the South Island and the capital city of Wellington, where the NZX is based.
The S&P/NZX 50 still finished higher, adding 0.6% to 6,737.76, though the expected cost of the earthquake weighed in insurance stocks, with Tower down 7.06%.
Infrastructure damage was most pronounced in the northern part of the Canterbury region, as well as in the Nelson, Marlborough and Tasman areas, with a number of state highways blocked off and railways lines severed.
There was also substantial structural damage in the coastal town of Kaikoura, with one building collapse killing at least one person, and a tsunami of two metres threatening the area for a time.
The extent of the damage in Kaikoura would not be known for some time as all roads and railway routes remained impassable, though tourists in the popular whalewatching destination were being airlifted out.
Weakness in the Kiwi dollar was also felt as a result of the shaking - it was last 0.39% behind the greenback at NZD 1.4106 per $1.
Analysts compared the weaker dollar to the reaction seen after the much more devastating and deadly Christchurch earthquake in February 2011.
Sharp falls in the currency in the days following the February 2011 earthquake were reversed in subsequent weeks and months as anticipation of insurance payouts from overseas and the positive economic impact of the rebuilding of Christchurch were factored in, Ray Attrill noted.
On the other side of the Tasman Sea, the other down under dollar was also weaker, last retreating 0.08% to AUD 1.3259 per $1.
Stocks had trimmed most of their earlier gains come midday on Monday as sovereign bond yields continued moving higher, with investors trying to digest the implications of the new US administration for America's economic policy.
At 1210 GMT, the FTSE 100 was up by 0.23% or 15.73 points to 6,745.34.
In an interview with CBS's 60 minutes, aired on 13 November, President-elect Donald Trump announced he would appoint Reince Preibus, the chairman of the Republican National Committee, as his chief of staff.
Some analysts suggested that was a market-friendly outcome.
Nonetheless, Trump's decision to retain his controversial campaign chairman, Stephen Bannon, as a senior counsellor, was described by the BBC as his "keeping an outsider devil on his shoulder".
As regards economic policy, analysts at Morgan Stanley optimistically said that under the most likely scenario, trade protectionism would go little further than strong rhetoric and Trump would deliver measurable tax reform and infrastructure spending that, on net, provide a healthy lift to the economy and enable a pick-up in the pace of monetary policy normalisation.
In such a scenario, GDP growth is lifted by 0.3 percentage points in both 2017 and 2018, while the Federal Reserve would hike rates two times in 2017 and three times in 2018, Morgan Stanley said.
However, other analysts broached the possibility of more adverse scenarios as well.
As of 1205 GMT the yield on the benchmark 10-year gilt was up by 10 basis points to 1.46% and that on French debt of a similar maturity by 11 basis points to 0.86%.
Linked to the above, on Monday ratings agency Moody's said the outlook for government debt markets around the world in 2017 was "negative" based on its expectations for continued low growth and a shift towards fiscal stimulus that would increase already high public sector debt.
Meanwhile, oil prices were again heading lower. West Texas Intermediate was off 1.59% to $42.73 a barrel and Brent crude was losing 1.13% at $44.25.
On the corporate front, housebuilder Taylor Wimpey advanced as it said in a trading update that the UK housing market remained resilient, despite the implications of Brexit still being unclear, and reported strong trading in the second half.
Irish distribution and business support services company DCC surged after reporting a rise in half-year revenue and saying full-year operating profit is likely to be ahead of market expectations.
Legal & General was on the front foot after announcing the completion of a 1.10bn pension buyout deal with Rolls-Royce.
Standard Life gained ground despite saying that the possible combination involving its Indian joint venture, HDFC Life, and Max Life Insurance Company, Max Financial Services and Max India, had hit a roadblock.
Bookmaker William Hill pushed higher after saying it expects full-year adjusted operating profit to be at the top end of its guidance, while Tesco rallied as HSBC upped its stance on the stock to buy from hold.
Irish convenience food group Greencore was a high riser after reporting a jump in full-year revenue and earnings as it hiked its dividend and announced the proposed acquisition of Peacock Foods for an enterprise value of $747.5m.
Shares in gaming software development company Playtech rose as it agreed to buy Consolidated Financial Holdings for up to $120m a deal it said will enhance its position as it continues to build a B2B offering in its financials division.
Market Movers
FTSE 100 (UKX) 6,750.32 0.30%
FTSE 250 (MCX) 17,458.24 0.08%
techMARK (TASX) 3,310.97 0.05%
FTSE 100 - Risers
DCC (DCC) 6,285.00p 4.14%
Barclays (BARC) 208.85p 3.52%
Royal Bank of Scotland Group (RBS) 208.00p 3.17%
Marks & Spencer Group (MKS) 337.50p 3.15%
Wolseley (WOS) 4,630.00p 2.93%
Legal & General Group (LGEN) 236.30p 2.78%
Prudential (PRU) 1,513.00p 2.40%
Capita (CPI) 563.00p 2.27%
Dixons Carphone (DC.) 333.80p 2.24%
Aviva (AV.) 461.50p 2.17%
FTSE 100 - Fallers
Polymetal International (POLY) 804.50p -3.83%
Mediclinic International (MDC) 733.00p -3.68%
National Grid (NG.) 931.10p -2.57%
Associated British Foods (ABF) 2,535.00p -2.42%
Sky (SKY) 770.50p -2.22%
Severn Trent (SVT) 2,132.00p -2.07%
United Utilities Group (UU.) 861.50p -1.99%
Randgold Resources Ltd. (RRS) 5,840.00p -1.93%
SSE (SSE) 1,455.00p -1.89%
Fresnillo (FRES) 1,408.00p -1.88%
FTSE 250 - Risers
Greencore Group (GNC) 327.60p 12.23%
Playtech (PTEC) 913.00p 3.46%
Shawbrook Group (SHAW) 256.40p 3.05%
OneSavings Bank (OSB) 318.00p 2.91%
Crest Nicholson Holdings (CRST) 448.60p 2.80%
GVC Holdings (GVC) 642.00p 2.64%
G4S (GFS) 249.50p 2.59%
JRP Group (JRP) 127.90p 2.32%
Paragon Group Of Companies (PAG) 348.60p 2.32%
Stagecoach Group (SGC) 204.90p 2.14%
FTSE 250 - Fallers
Centamin (DI) (CEY) 136.10p -3.54%
Pennon Group (PNN) 770.00p -3.08%
Tullow Oil (TLW) 239.30p -3.04%
Hochschild Mining (HOC) 239.70p -2.88%
AO World (AO.) 165.10p -2.71%
Hill & Smith Holdings (HILS) 1,210.00p -2.58%
Countrywide (CWD) 197.30p -2.47%
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Germany has reported much increased interest from financial institutions looking to move to the country following the UK's vote to leave the European Union.
After reports that numerous banks were looking to up sticks from London and cross the water to the continent or Ireland, the German financial centre of Frankfurt, home of the European Central Bank, has been pitching itself as the best option.
"Frankfurt is a love at second sight. But a love that lasts all the longer," said state secretary Thomas Steffen, a senior finance ministry official, from a banking conference on Monday, according to Reuters.
"I have to say that we at the finance ministry are registering an increasing number of requests. And we are very, very open to such discussions," Steffen said.
Reuters reported last week that Goldman Sachs is mulling a move of some of its operations from London to Frankfurt, while prior to the referendum, JPMorgan chief Jamie Dimon said he may move around 4,000 jobs outside the UK if Brexit hit the bank's ability to do business in Europe.
Anthony Browne, chief executive of the British Bankers Association, said last month that many bigger banks were preparing to relocate out of the UK in the first few months of 2017 amid fears that 'passporting' rights for financial companies would be withdrawn if the UK pursues a 'hard Brexit'.
Greencore reported a jump in full-year revenue and earnings as it hiked its dividend and announced the proposed acquisition of Peacock Foods for an enterprise value of $747.5m.
In its preliminary results for the year to the end of September, the company said revenue was up 10.6% to 1.48bn, or 5.9% higher on a like-for-like basis, while group earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation were up 13.9% to 138.4m.
Convenience Foods revenue grew 6.6% on a LFL basis to 1.44bn and Greencore proposed a final dividend of 4.10p per share, giving a total dividend of 6.65p per share, up 8.1%.
Greencore said it saw continued strong momentum across UK and US food-to-go activity, with 10.5% like-for-like revenue growth, well ahead of market performance.
Also on Monday, the group announced the proposed acquisition of Peacock Foods, a US convenience food manufacturer which generated revenue of around $1bn and adjusted EBITDA of $72.1m in the year to September.
Greencore said the deal has the potential to transform its market and channel position in the US and create a strong platform for long-term profitable growth.
The acquisition will be funded by a fully underwritten rights issue offered to qualifying shareholders to raise a total of 439.4m and new debt facilities of approximately 200m.
Chief executive officer Patrick Coveney said: This has been another year of strong performance for Greencore, and these results should be seen as a clear indication that our strategy of focusing on the UK and US Convenience Foods markets is continuing to work well.
In the UK, we have delivered substantial like-for-like growth against the backdrop of a challenging retail market and an uncertain economic environment, and in the US we now have a business that is primed to deliver sustainable, profitable growth. Given the underlying commercial momentum across the group, our strong market positions, the transformational acquisition of Peacock Foods in the US that we have announced separately today, and our recent new business wins, we are confident about Greencore's future prospects."
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IT service provider Wistron ITS has reported record revenue, operating profit and net profit for the first half of 2022 and it remains optimistic about the overall market demand and...
4 takeaways from Fox News town hall with Tim Ryan, J.D. Vance
Republican J.D. Vance and Democratic U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan participated in a town hall in Columbus hosted by Fox News Tuesday night.
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SPOKANE (AP) U.S. Rep. Dan Newhouse and numerous other Republican lawmakers have sent a letter opposing the removal of four dams on the Snake River to restore wild runs of salmon.
The lawmakers sent the letter on Thursday to members of the House Appropriations Committee, asking that money be retained in the federal budget to operate the dams. Newhouse represents central Washington.
. . .
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Legacy Partners said it has sold the 177-unit Milehouse apartments in Redmond for $68.45 million.
. . .
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FEDERAL WAY The 136-unit Brightwater Apartments sold for $18.7 million, according to King County records. The seller was Brightwater Apartments Inc., associated with original developer Daniel Lim.
The buyer was FSC Brightwater Associates LLC, affiliated with investor FSC Realty of Beverly Hills and apartment manager Westwood Residential, of Frisco, Texas.
. . .
Banks laden with Rs2,00,000-cr of demonetised notes, no money to disburse
Even as people of all denominations lined up to draw cash from banks and ATMs, banks across the country are reported to have collected over Rs200,000 crore (about $30 billion) in deposits in the days since 9 November.
But, with the banned bills accounting for 86 per cent of money now out of circulation, banks are now under increased pressure to replenish cash after the Rs500 and Rs1,000 notes were demonetised in a surprise move on 8 November.
ATMs ran dry a few hours after banks replenished cash of lower denominations, which were soon exhausted with people drawing all they could using all sorts of cards and in umpteen numbers.
Banks reported more than 70 million transactions through midday on 12 November, according to a finance ministry statement.
With the rush to book train and plane tickets over after announcement that refunds will not come in the form of new currency, even on Sunday, people were seen queuing up to deposit cash in hand.
However, ATMs ran empty for cash withdrawals.
Finance minister Arun Jaitley, meanwhile, said there is adequate money in the currency chests at more than 4,000 locations and these will be loaded into ATMs after re-configuration of dispensing machines will be completed within two weeks, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said.
"A big regret is that people are getting inconvenienced, but currency replacement of this magnitude will cause some problems," Jaitley said at a press conference in New Delhi on Saturday. "There are long, but orderly queues. Such a big currency replacement can't be done overnight."
Lenders have been caught unawares by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's unexpected announcement of the withdrawal of Rs500 and Rs1,000 notes as part of a crackdown on tax evasion and accumulation of ill-gotten wealth.
Jaitley urged people not to rush to banks immediately and wait for a few days and to conduct financial transactions using electronic transfers, checks and credit and debit cards.
State Bank of India, the country's largest, got deposits of about Rs47,868 crore, Jaitley said. It handled Rs54,370 crore of cash transactions in all, including deposits, withdrawals and exchange of banknotes, starting Thursday till 12:15 p.m. on Saturday, Jaitley said. SBI and its associates account for about 20 to 25 per cent of the nation's banking transactions, he said.
Jaitley also said, it was a deliberate policy move by the government not to reconfigure 200,000-odd ATMs beforehand as it would have only helped to leak government's moves.
The finance ministry also claimed that about 1,20,000 out of the 2,00,000 ATMs are operational, and are dispensing Rs100 rupee notes, which looked an exaggeration considering the fact that at least in Mumbai, most of the ATMs remained cash-less on Sunday as well.
The newly-established solar-powered mobile phone towers in Jharkhand's Naxal-hit areas are empowering security forces as well as tribals and helping to counter the influence of extremists.
Not only have they improved the movement of security forces but also allowed them to more effectively neutralise extreme-Left Naxalites or Maoists who had created a reign of terror in the area, reports the Press Trust of India.
"Earlier, Naxals would demolish cellphone towers or cut their power supply, thereby hampering communication in the entire area.
"Now, the Central Reserve Police Force provides round-the-clock security to these towers which are solar-powered," Assistant Commandant, CRPF, Matlong Krishna Choubey said.
These newly-established towers are powered by solar energy and the batteries can supply power for at least a week in a single charge, he said.
They are interconnected with other towers through latest wireless technology and provide signals in a radius of five kilometres.
"The movement of CRPF troops are effective now due to the establishment of these cellphone towers. Our informers are now able to provide us vital information regarding movement of Naxals, who have largely been neutralised here in Latehar," Chaubey said.
The establishment of these cellphone towers is hailed as a major victory against Naxals who never wanted the villagers and the government to connect.
Locals said that in some parts of Latehar district, they can even surf internet in 4G speed and complete their net-related work through smartphones.
However, most parts are connected by 2G services as of now.
"We can fill job-related forms and access government schemes through our cellphones. These solar-powered cell phones come handy," local resident Shiv Yadav told PTI.
As part of the NDA government's ambitious plan to strengthen communication flow in tribal and Naxalite areas in India, state-run telecom service provider Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd has established as many as 2199 solar-powered mobile phone towers in 10 Naxal-infested states.
The programme was approved by the government in 2014. The 2,199 towers were to be set up before December 2016 and the work has already been completed.
Israel President Reuven Rivlin lands in Mumbai for six-day India visit
Israel president Reuven Rivlin flew into Mumbai today on his six-day visit to this country, during which he will visit sites of several joint project besides discuss areas of cooperation between the two countries.
Rivlin, who is accompanied by his wife and a large delegation of businessmen and academicians, will leave for New Delhi later in the day. Rivlin will join President Pranab Mukherjee in opening an agrotech conference in Chandigarh.
Rivlin will pay his respects at the sites of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in Mumbai and lay wreaths at memorials for Mahatma Gandhi in Delhi and for Indian soldiers, who fell in the World War I in Israel and the Middle East.
Six Jews were killed at the Mumbai Chabad house during the Mumbai terror attacks on 26 November 2008.
He will also hold meetings with senior Indian officials and with leaders of the Jewish community.
Indian and Israeli universities are also expected to sign around 15 MoUs in the field of research besides promoting exchange of faculty between the two countries during Rivlin's visit.
Rivlin will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj and visit several sites of cooperation and joint projects between the two nations.
Promoting education ties between the two countries will be one of the top agendas of discussion and the MoUs to be signed between educational institutions will include both general and specific.
''The focus of general MoUs will be more towards faculty exchange. There are 15 MoUs in the pipeline between Israeli education institutions and some of the top Indian universities like Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Mumbai University and OP Jindal University among others,'' said minister counsellor, head of public diplomacy, Embassy of Israel, Ditza Froim.
''By unique MoUs, we mean the ones that are related to promoting joint research between the two countries. In 2013, a joint research programme was started between the two countries under which researchers from both nations joined hands to work in areas of life sciences and chemistry. The idea now is to further strengthen the research programme in areas like agriculture, food security and entrepreneurship and give more grants to students,'' she added.
Addressing Israeli media before his departure, Rivlin termed India as a ''close friend'', and described the two countries as places of ''innovation and inspiration''.
''I am departing now on an important visit to India, an important ally and close friend of Israel, a state with whom we have much in common,'' Rivlin said late yesterday, just before leaving for New Delhi.
''Israel and India are both countries of innovation and of inspiration. Countries that have ancient traditions, but have built strong and thriving hi-tech economies, and now celebrate 25 years of diplomatic relations. This visit is a sign of the strong relations and friendship between our peoples, and I hope will plant the seeds for that friendship to grow closer and closer,'' he said.
The academic delegation accompanying Rivlin includes presidents and senior representatives of 13 Israeli academic institutions who are expected to sign 15 separate agreements between Israeli and Indian educational institutions.
''The issue of international cooperation in higher education and the expansion of academic ties between Israel and the world in particular with India is one of the central aims of the multi-year plan for higher education in Israel,'' said Yaffa Zilbershats, head the Council for Higher Education's budget committee.
The expansion of academic ties would include student exchanges, joint research projects and the founding of inter-institutional fora to promote academic cooperation between Israeli and India universities and colleges, he noted.
Rivlin, in the past, has complimented the Indian students in Israel, saying ''they are among the best'' of the lot.
''India represents a great challenge for Israeli to strengthen cooperation and partnership with their Indian counterparts,'' said Shraga Brosh, President of Manufacturers Association of Israel, who is heading the business delegation.
''I have no doubt that this will be a fruitful visit and forge long-lasting economic partnerships which will strengthen and help grow the bilateral trade between the countries'', Brosh said.
Israel has been the second largest supplier of defence equipment to India for many years and its ''timely'' supply of Indian requirements during the Kargil War has earned it the tag of a 'reliable' partner.
Donegal County Councillor, Sean McEniff, who took ill in Gran Canaria, was flown back from the sunshine island to Dublin on Saturday night.
The long-serving politician is still on a ventilator and in an induced coma in a Dublin hospital, but his condition is stable, according to the family.
In a brief statement issued yesterday afternoon, the McEniff family said: "The family would like to acknowledge the continued messages of good wishes and prayers for Sean's recovery. The family would also like to thank the medical professionals of Clinica Rocca in San Agustin who did an excellent job of caring for Sean in Gran Canaria."
Cllr. McEniffs son Conor McEniff, told the special sitting of Ballyshannon District Court on November 3rd that his father might never be able to give evidence in a continuing case before the court.
Cllr. McEniff was summonsed as a witness in the case, which involves former Bundoran Town Councillor Florence McNulty (56) of The Palace, Main Street, Bundoran, who is charged with allegedly assaulting Garda Helen Munnelly. Her son Joseph McNulty (34) of 85 Doran Close, Bundoran is charged with alleged threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour as is her husband, Thomas McNulty (57) of Main Street, Bundoran. All charges relate to an incident which occurred at Bundoran Town Council offices on February 10th, 2014.
Under oath, Conor McEniff told the court, "My father is in an induced coma in a Spanish hospital.
"He is not ever going to be able to give evidence in this case. He has serious heart conditions and is not able to deal with any stress.
Even if he comes out of the coma in the next few weeks he probably won't be allowed to fly for another few weeks. The incident happened on Thursday last and he was due back in Ireland on Tuesday last.
His heart specialist has told him that he is in no fit state to give evidence."
All defendants have given evidence and have denied all charges.
Judge Kelly adjourned the case until December 9th for a full update on Cllr. McEniff's health.
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Home Four wheelers Mercedes-Benz R&D Center India Celebrates 20 Years oi-Sreejith
Mercedes-Benz Research and Development Center India (MBRDI) is celebrating 20 years of in 2016. The Center was inaugurated in 1996 in Bangalore. Now, MBRDI is the largest R&D center for Daimler outside of Germany - with respect to the number of employees.
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Home Two wheelers Benelli To Launch A Scrambler And A Tourer In India During 2017 oi-Rajkamal
Benelli entered India recently and has seen very good success in the country. To keep the sales momentum going, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer has decided to launch two motorcycles the TRK 502 and the Leoncino.
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Whether youre a freelancer, entrepreneur or a virtual worker, one thing you probably love about your job is the ability to work wherever and whenever you want. Youre not beholden to the 9 to 5 office life of the average corporate worker bee.
Its great, right?
Perhaps not always. Undoubtedly youve had days where your motivation to work has been sorely lacking. Flipping through Netflix is way more fun, and you can always pick up the slack in the evening or so you tell yourself. And then there are the days when you miss having coworkers to chat with. Even eating lunch by yourself all day, every day can get a little lonely.
So you skip out of your home office and head for the nearest coffee shop. But youre distracted by someone in the corner loudly taking a call, and the bustle of traffic is overwhelming. You end up people-watching for a solid half hour before you realize you havent gotten a lick of work done.
Amid all your concentration troubles, you start to wonder if that corporate office life is pretty good after all.
Co-working Keeps Things Professional
Well, parts of office life are nice, and others can definitely be tossed by the wayside. Co-working is a concept that tries to combine the best of both worlds.
A co-working space is a shared office for freelancers and anyone else who needs a professional atmosphere to focus on their work. When co-working was still in its infancy, the work spaces were rather basic. There may have been desks, couches and a kitchen. These days, co-working offices have gotten a major facelift. Regus Australia, for example, has a receptionist that can field phone calls for you and accept your business mail, giving you a big boost in professional credibility. Its also more common for meeting rooms to be available, as well as snack bars, phone centers (where you can talk without disrupting your fellow workers) and office equipment like photocopiers and fax machines.
If your line of work means that you consult with clients in person, you might feel like your home office doesnt give the professional vibe you want. Nor does a coffee shop, which doesnt lend much privacy. Instead, tell your client to come to your office at your co-working space. Youll benefit from a professional first-impression and all the amenities you could ask for, including projectors to help you give a presentation, or white boards to help you brainstorm ideas. In fact, if you have a small team of employees but dont want to spend money on the overhead of your own personal office, purchasing a co-working membership for each of your employees is an excellent choice.
Social Perks of Co-Working
Of course, the biggest incentive that co-working has to offer is the ability to socialize and make business connections. You can network locally and pick up new gigs via referrals. For example, your co-worker might be a freelance graphic designer who has a client with web coding needs. Your co-worker knows youre a coder, and refers her client on to you.
Professional development events might be sponsored by the co-working space, giving you free or low-cost access to unique learning opportunities. And of course, you can participate in office parties throughout the year. Who doesnt love an excuse to eat sweets and drink wine?
But you can also form lasting friendships at the water cooler. And because youre no ones boss or manager, nor are you competing for a promotion with anyone, you dont have to feel awkward about being friends with the people around you.
Rules for Peaceful Co-working
Co-working spaces typically operate with membership plans. For example, you can choose to drop in on limited days of the week, or upgrade for 24/7 access. Some spaces employ a cleaning crew, a caterer or on-site IT support. Others require members to pitch in to keep the space neat and tidy, to bring their own food and to troubleshoot their own IT problems. With co-working gaining popularity, however, the perks are becoming more and more competitive. Full-service co-working spaces are definitely trending.
But each space will also have its own etiquette, whether spoken or unspoken. For example, some spaces tolerate more noise than others. But if there are multiple private rooms available, use one to take your conference call. Likewise, if you are the sort of person who needs almost complete silence in order to concentrate, plan on bringing sound cancelling headphones, listening to ambient music or stuffing yourself in a remote corner of the office.
Know that everyone around you is trying to concentrate or get in the zone. Your neighbor might be annoyed if you break his or her concentration to ask how to format something in Word. Try to figure it out on your own first, and then ask someone who seems to be taking a break or whom you are confident can help you.
Following kitchen etiquette is extremely important in a co-working space, as it is in any office. If you didnt bring it or it is not obviously for everyone, dont touch it. Theres no faster way to get on someones bad side than to eat the snack theyve been looking forward to all afternoon.
In short, if you need to refresh your work life, try getting out of your home office and join a co-working space.
About the Author:
Cathy Habas is a professional writer, editor and Spanish-English translator. She collaborates with entrepreneurs from around the world to market their innovations and to reach a diverse audience. Cathy is also a member of the Build Niche Links writing team.
At COP22 event, Nicholas Stern says agriculture and climate change inextricably linked
The private sector must play a key role in addressing climate challenges in the agricultural sector and in helping farmers reduce their own impact on the climate, a conference on the sidelines of the United Nations COP22 climate talks in Marrakesh heard today.
At the event staged by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) Food and Climate Change: The Role of the Private Sector leading climate specialist Nicholas Stern said agricuture and climate change were inextricably linked.
He noted that food production methods were already changing as a result of the risks posed by climate change. The private sector was aware that continued profitability of the food and agricultural sector depended on the preservation of environmental resources that were vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
The momentum generated by last years Paris climate agreement and the new Sustainable Development Goals agreed in 2015 presented a valuable opportunity for private sector agricultural and food actors to take an active role in finding solutions to the common challenges which lie ahead, he said.
The EBRDs Managing Director for Economics, Policy and Governance, Mattia Romani, told the conference that the Banks investments in agribusiness were all in the private sector, supporting the EBRDs drive to make food production more sustainable, improve resource efficiency and reduce waste.
The EBRD supports the agribusiness sector and it is one of the priorities in Egypt. More videos
The EBRD had observed changes in the way agribusiness companies addressed the global challenge of climate change and environmental issues in general.
Clients were seeking to increase competitiveness by being more efficient with water and energy, developing environmentally friendly land-management practices and the promotion of biofertilisers, bioenergy and other eco-products.
Such developments could not happen in a political vacuum and support from the public sector was necessary, he said, pointing to remaining gaps in government legislation which had the potential to distort competition both within and between countries.
Water and energy pricing are important, and so are public policies aimed at making sustainable use of resources, protecting vulnerable resources, creating infrastructure that facilitates adaptation to climate change, and developing appropriate financial mechanisms, Dr Romani said.
The EBRD has been supporting the development of market economies since its creation in 1991 and is now active in 36 countries across three continents from Mongolia in Central Asia to Morocco on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, from Estonia on the Baltic to Egypt on the Mediterranean.
In helping to promote efficient, robust and resilient economies, the EBRD has placed a high priority on ensuring food security and energy efficiency and combating climate change.
It has financed close to 600 transactions in the agribusiness sector, exceeding 10 billion of cumulative investment.
At the same time the Bank is firmly committed to increasing its climate finance. Under its Green Economy Transition approach the EBRD is aiming to scale up its green economy investments from 30 per cent of the total portfolio today to 40 per cent by 2020.
Part of our success will depend on the private sectors willingness to undertake investments in this area, and agribusinesses are key, Dr Romani told the conference.
The past several days have been a bit of a blur for me. I sat down to write out my feelings several times immediately following the election to no avail. So, I finally decided to sit with my thoughts for a few days and listen to what others had to say.
During my moment of reticence, I heard numerous explanations regarding why the next President of the United States is going to be Donald Trump.
As a lifelong Detroiter, I expected and heard the narrative that Black Detroiters cost Hillary Clinton the election. Then I heard the story of how the arrogance of the Democratic Party cost Hillary the election. Then it was that white men who werent being heard by President Obama or Hillary Clinton voted for Donald Trump and that their wives simply voted with their husbands. I also heard that many Trump supporters feelings were hurt because Hillary called them a basket of deplorables, so that solidified their votes for Trump. I have listened to folks say that all Trump supporters are rape apologists, racists, misogynists, women haters, self-hating women, self-hating Latinos, and self-hating Blacks. I have witnessed Trump supporters say that supporters of Hillary are stupid. I have listened to 3rd Party supporters say that both sides are stupid for voting for Trump or Hillary and I have heard non-voters call all three stupid for buying into a system that has failed to represent them.
My point is that there is enough blame to go around and according to everybody, somebody else is to blame for this recent election and our current conditions in America.
On April 4, 1967, one year before his assassination, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered what was in my opinion, one of his bravest and most profound speeches, Beyond Vietnam: A Time to Break Silence.
In that speech, Dr. King said in part:
I am convinced that if we are to get on the right side of the world revolution, we as a nation must undergo a radical revolution of values. We must rapidly begin the shift from a thing-oriented society to a person-oriented society. When machines and computers, profit motives and property rights, are considered more important than people, the giant triplets of racism, extreme materialism, and militarism are incapable of being conquered. A true revolution of values will soon cause us to question the fairness and justice of many of our past and present policies. On the one hand, we are called to play the Good Samaritan on lifes roadside, but that will be only an initial act. One day we must come to see that the whole Jericho Road must be transformed so that men and women will not be constantly beaten and robbed as they make their journey on lifes highway. True compassion is more than flinging a coin to a beggar. It comes to see that an edifice which produces beggars needs restructuring.
Dr. King knew that, not only did Americans need to make a radical shift in their thinking and ways of being, but that they needed to be challenged to challenge a system that would create beggars in the first place.
This, I believe, is where most of us have failed. It is not about who can get more of the pie, or a piece of the pie at all. Its about the illusion that the pursuit of the pie holds the key to our liberty and justice. Its about the fact that conditions of oppression and struggle have been fostered in far too many communities through oppressive policies, so we have folks scrambling all over the globe to find sanity at the expense of other human beings. It is about our internalization of materialism in such a way that even poor folks seek to oppress other poor folks. Its about our internalization of the sort of individualism that would allow us to go on about our days while tens of thousands go without food, clean water, or a roof over their heads. Its about our blatant disregard for the earth for our personal benefit.
I am a proponent of Black Lives Matter and, yes, I do believe that the dangerous terrorism narrative that has been allowed to permeate the media and households across the globe has put far too many activists in danger. Yes, I do believe that the hatred that has been perpetuated during this election cycle towards Muslims, Black people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQIA community, Mexicans, and women has sparked a nasty violence reminiscent of a society that I have to believe most of us do not want to revisit. I also believe that fear, just as much, if not more than hatred is responsible for most of the violence we have witnessed the past several years and I believe that the constant bombardment of ratings-inspired sensationalism in the media has fostered this fear which is emblematic of a lack of imagination and a resolute opposition to human beings coming together for the good of all humanity.
Its time we checked ourselves, Democrats, Republicans, Third Parties, non-voters all of us, because we have yet to actually witness a true democracy and a vision for this country that represents us all.
This failure is all of ours to share as a burden. We have not undergone the radical revolution of values Dr. King called for. We have not begun the shift from a thing-oriented society to a person-oriented society. We have failed to put people before profit and, for that, we have struggled at every turn to humanize our society and make conditions more livable for everyone and the earth.
Just days before Dr. King was assassinated, he had this to say:
Ive come upon something that disturbs me deeply. We have fought hard and long for integration, as I believe we should have, and I know we will win. But I have come to believe that we are integrating into a burning house. Im afraid that America has lost the moral vision she may have had. And Im afraid that even as we integrate, we are walking into a place that does not understand that this nation needs to be deeply concerned with the plight of the poor and disenfranchised. Until we commit ourselves to ensuring that the underclass is given justice and opportunity, we will continue to perpetuate the anger and violence that tears the soul of this nation. I fear I am integrating my people into a burning house.
Dr. King was right about the struggle ahead for Black people in America. But, as another Ancestor James Boggs argued: I love this country not only because my ancestors blood is in the soil, but for the potential of what it can become.
We who believe in freedom cannot think about this country as a corporation or as an organization we reluctantly belong to. We have to shed the culture of violence that this country was founded on. We have to shed the character of a country that would make invisible the Indigenous population even as they struggle for their lives at Standing Rock. We have to start thinking as the 99% while rejecting the values of the 1%. We have to become a country that makes it moot for Black people to have to affirm their lives. Its time we started thinking about this country as a place filled with people trying their damnedest to figure out what it means to be human.
The giant triplets of racism, extreme materialism, and militarism must consistently be struggled against and it is going to take all of us tackling the parts of these systems that each of us has internalized.
This election cycle has indeed been brutal, but not nearly as brutal as we have become towards one another. Its time we all did better.
[CC image credit: Gage Skidmore | Flickr]
The status of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange grew a bit murky on Tuesday after the group accused the U.S. State Department of pressuring Ecuadorian officials to block him from posting additional emails linked to presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.
The Ecuadorian foreign ministry on Tuesday acknowledged placing temporary restrictions on Assanges access, saying in a statement that it did not wish to interfere in a foreign election. It also said that it was acting on its own and not in response to any outside pressures.
Assange has been holed up in the Ecuadorian embassy in London since 2012 to shield himself from two outstanding sex assault charges stemming from a 2010 trip he made to Sweden. He has continued to lead the WikiLeaks organization from there.
WikiLeaks earlier on Tuesday had accused U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry of pressuring his counterparts in Ecuador to crack down on the email leaks during a round of peace negotiations to end the decades-old conflict between Marxist FARC rebels and the Columbian military.
Kerry held private meetings with Ecuador during a sideline period in negotiations with Columbia that began on Sept. 26, WikiLeaks claimed.
The John Kerry private meeting with Ecuador was made on the sidelines of the negotiations which took place pricipally on Sep 26 in Colombia.
WikiLeaks (@WikiLeaks) October 18, 2016
Assange lost his Internet connection at the Embassy at 5 p.m. on Saturday GMT, shortly after the group published Clintons Goldman Sachs speech, WikiLeaks said in an earlier tweet.
We can confirm Ecuador cut off Assange's internet access Saturday, 5pm GMT, shortly after publication of Clinton's Goldman Sachs speechs.
WikiLeaks (@WikiLeaks) October 17, 2016
Code Blue
WikiLeaks initially claimed that a state party intentionally severed Assanges Internet link and that it had activated the appropriate contingency plans.
WikiLeaks also released three tweets called pre-commitment 1: John Kerry, pre-commitment 2: Ecuador and pre-commitment 3: UK FCO. Each tweet included what appeared to be alpha-numeric cryptokeys, more than 60 characters long.
The tweets set off a frenzy of speculation, including rumors that Assange had died. However, that rumor was quickly shot down.
Assange had warned for several months that he would release information that was damaging to Clinton before the November presidential election.
Method and Madness
The method and motivation of the various actors in this most recent drama left Troy Hunt, a Microsoft regional director and MVP, at a loss as to exactly what happened this weekend.
Seems a bit weird to me Ecuador has granted him asylum, he told the E-Commerce Times. Why pull his Internet? And how was the U.S. able to do it when hes holed up in a building in London? Or was it political pressure rather than technical means used by the U.S.?
Kerry had nothing to do with Assanges loss of Internet access, according to State Department spokesperson John Kirby.
While our concerns about WikiLeaks are longstanding, any suggestion that Secretary Kerry or the State Department were involved in shutting down WikiLeaks is false, he said. Reports that Secretary Kerry had conversations with Ecuadorian officials about this are simply untrue. Period.
US Will Strike Back
Assange made headlines earlier this year when WikiLeaks was connected to suspected Russian hacks of emails belonging to Hillary Clinton and her associates, as well as network intrusions of several Democratic Party organizations.
The leaked emails are part of the Russian governments targeted campaign to undermine the confidence in the U.S. presidential election and possibly influence the outcome, according to U.S. government officials and cybersecurity experts.
The Obama administration earlier this month officially accused the Russian government of orchestrating the cyberattacks and promised to deliver a proportional response.
Officials at Ecuadors U.S. embassy referred us to the countrys Foreign Ministry, which did not respond to our request to comment on this story.
WikiLeaks recently released a new batch of emails belonging to longtime Clinton associate John Podesta, who is the current chairman of the Clinton presidential campaign and was chief of staff under President Bill Clinton and counselor to President Barack Obama.
Microsoft earlier this week said it had fallen victim to Strontium, its code name for the Russian hacking group also known as Fancy Bear, which has been linked to recent attacks on Democratic Party systems.
The group launched a spear phishing attack that targeted vulnerabilities in both the Windows operating system and Adobe Flash, according to Terry Myerson, executive vice president of Microsofts Windows and Devices Group.
The attack, first identified by Googles Threat Analysis Group, involved two zero-day vulnerabilities in Flash and the down level Windows kernel, he explained. It used the Flash exploit to gain control over browsers, elevate privileges to escape the browser sandbox and install a backdoor to gain access to a users computer.
Microsoft is working with Google and Adobe on a patch and plans to release the fix by Nov. 8, when the next update is scheduled, Myerson said.
Those who use Microsoft Edge on the Windows 10 Anniversary Update are known to be protected from versions of the attack observed in the wild. Microsoft recommended that users upgrade to Windows 10 and said that those who enable Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection will be able to detect the attempted attacks.
Googles Disclosure
Google should not have disclosed the vulnerability before the patches were made available, according to Myerson.
We believe responsible technology industry participation puts the customer first, and requires coordinated vulnerability disclosure, he said. Googles decision to disclose these vulnerabilities before patches are broadly available and tested is disappointing and puts customers at increased risk.
Google on Monday revealed the Microsoft and Adobe vulnerabilities, noting that Adobe already had updated Flash to address the flaw. The Adobe patch is available through the Adobe updater and Chrome auto update.
Google, per its policy of seven-day disclosure of actively exploited critical vulnerabilities, reported the remaining critical vulnerability in Windows, noting that it was being exploited in the wild.
The vulnerability was a local privilege escalation that could be used as a security sandbox escape, noted Neel Mehta and Billy Leonard of Googles Threat Analysis Group in an online post. They urged users to make sure that Flash was auto updated, or to manually update if necessary.
They should make sure to apply Windows patches, when available, Mehta and Leonard also wrote.
Election Jitters
The new attacks came at a sensitive time in the United States, with the presidential election less than a week away. Federal and local officials have made a major effort to ensure the public has confidence in the electoral system.
Thus far, 48 states and 36 county and local governments have taken up an offer by the Department of Homeland Security to assist local governments with ensuring that the state and local election systems are protected against cyberattacks, DHS spokesperson Scott McConnell told TechNewsWorld.
The states of Illinois and Arizona were targeted more than a month ago by a suspected Russian hack that impacted 200,000 voters in the Illinois voter registration database.
There is little risk of a foreign hacker impacting the actual outcome of the race, but there are fears that a new round of cyberattacks could impact the level of confidence in the integrity of the system.
While the actual fallout is hard to predict, its important to look at the chaos that Russian hackers have allegedly been sowing in the past couple months, said Bryan Burns, vice president of threat research at Proofpoint.
This group has access to multiple zero-day vulnerabilities, which are always very powerful, as no patches exist, he told TechNewsWorld. The potential fallout, especially with the election just a week away, is quite concerning.
Its no secret that the fossil fuel industry funds climate denial organizations and pseduo-scientists. Regardless, its always nice to have proof that deniers are hired guns.
The latest batch of evidence comes from Peabody Energy, the biggest coal company in the U.S. Its gone bankrupt and the related court documents list those to whom they still owe money. Try to contain your surprise: many of the usual suspects in the deniersphere show up. Unfortunately, the amounts owed and dates arent listed, so we dont know how much money was supposed to change hands or when. But we do know there is a funding relationship between the coal giant and the climate deniers.
There are individual scientists listed, ones we know and love, like Willie Soon, the denier who accused legitimate scientists of prostituting science when hes the one thats received more than a million dollars for his work finding potential non-fossil-fuel excuses for climate change. Theres also Richard Lindzen, who was part of Peabodys failed social cost of carbon lawsuit (which is probably what the company owed him money for).
Roy Spencer, keeper of the UAH Satellite record is listed, probably also for his involvement in the Minnesota case (something already revealed by Greenpeace) but perhaps more. And no list of deniers-for-hire would be complete without James Taylor of Heartland, who in the past has admitted that 40 percent of his funding comes from the fossil fuel industry.
While thats the only mention of Heartland (meaning Peabody didnt fund the group directly or if it did its already paid up) a number of other organizations have outstanding debts from Peabody. Among them are CFACT, home of Marc Morano of climatedepot. Theres the CO2 is good group Center for the Study of Carbon Dioxide and Global Change, FOIA-harassment legal group Energy & Environment Legal Institute (formerly the American Tradition Institute, before they got embroiled in a campaign finance scandal) and a raft of anti-renewable legislation groups, like ALEC, the 60 Plus Association, Edison Electric Institute, George C. Marshall Institute and others.
Instead of heeding literally decades of warnings that coal use would need to end to stave off climatic catastrophe and attempting to transition into the profitable renewable business, Peabody funded groups to tell the public what it wanted to hear: that climate change is no big deal or even good for us, so we can keep burning coal forever.
Ignoring science for sycophants? No wonder they went bankrupt.
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Denmark produced 42 percent of its electricity from wind power in 2015, even though two major wind farms were offline, according to official data from Energinet, Denmarks transmissions systems operator. Thats the highest figure recorded to date worldwide and 3 percent higher than the record Denmark set for wind production in 2014.
Denmark has been rapidly increasing its overall percentage of wind energy over the last decade from 18 percent in 2005. Photo credit: Energinet
In fact, two western regionsJutland and Funensupplied more electricity from wind than they consumed for the equivalent of 60 days last year. Wind supplied 55 percent of electricity in the western part of the country and 23 percent in the eastern region.
Hopefully, Denmark can serve as an example to other countries that it is possible to have both ambitious green policies with a high proportion of wind energy and other renewables in the energy supply, and still have a high security of supply and competitive prices on electricity, the countrys Minister for Energy, Utilities and Climate Lars Christian Lilleholt told The Guardian.
Denmark sets wind power record, aims at 50% #renewables by 2020 https://t.co/QjI4qJO2LT pic.twitter.com/6HjRtmuYqk UN Climate Change (@UNFCCC) January 19, 2016
According to Energinet, 2015 was a particularly windy year, which helped Denmark set the new record. But Denmark has been rapidly increasing its overall percentage of wind energy for more than a decade.
The fact that we are now generating surplus power 16 percent of the time in the Western Danish power grid illustrates that we can benefit from imports and exports across borders to an even greater extent, Carsten Vittrup, an adviser to Energinet, said. Denmark sells excess energy mainly to Norway, Sweden and Germany.
The European Wind Energy Association hailed the news. These figures show that we are now at a level where wind integration can be the backbone of electricity systems in advanced economies, Kristian Ruby, the European Wind Energy Associations chief policy officer, told The Guardian.
The Scandinavian country appears to be on track to reach its goal of producing half of all electricity from wind by 2050. Globally, renewable energy saw more money invested ($329.3 billion) and more capacity added in 2015 than ever before, according to data released last week from Bloomberg New Energy Finance. Renewables, especially wind and solar, have soared in recent months even amid plummeting fossil fuel prices.
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By C.J. Polychroniou
On Nov. 8, Donald Trump managed to pull the biggest upset in U.S. politics by tapping successfully into the anger of white voters and appealing to the lowest inclinations of people in a manner that would have probably impressed Nazi propagandist Joseph Goebbels himself.
But what exactly does Trumps victory mean and what can one expect from this megalomaniac when he takes over the reins of power on Jan. 20, 2017? What is Trumps political ideology, if any and is Trumpism a movement? Will U.S. foreign policy be any different under a Trump administration? Some years ago, public intellectual Noam Chomsky warned that the political climate in the U.S. was ripe for the rise of an authoritarian figure. Now, he shares his thoughts on the aftermath of this election, the moribund state of the U.S. political system and why Trump is a real threat to the world and the planet in general.
Q. Noam, the unthinkable has happened: In contrast to all forecasts, Donald Trump scored a decisive victory over Hillary Clinton, and the man that Michael Moore described as a wretched, ignorant, dangerous part-time clown and full-time sociopath will be the next president of the U.S. In your view, what were the deciding factors that led American voters to produce the biggest upset in the history of U.S. politics?
A. Noam Chomsky
Before turning to this question, I think it is important to spend a few moments pondering just what happened on Nov. 8, a date that might turn out to be one of the most important in human history, depending on how we react.
No exaggeration.
The most important news of Nov. 8 was barely noted, a fact of some significance in itself.
On Nov. 8, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) delivered a report at the international conference on climate change in Morocco (COP22) which was called in order to carry forward the Paris agreement of COP21. The WMO reported that the past five years were the hottest on record. It reported rising sea levels, soon to increase as a result of the unexpectedly rapid melting of polar ice, most ominously the huge Antarctic glaciers. Already, Arctic sea ice over the past five years is 28 percent below the average of the previous 29 years, not only raising sea levels, but also reducing the cooling effect of polar ice reflection of solar rays, thereby accelerating the grim effects of global warming. The WMO reported further that temperatures are approaching dangerously close to the goal established by COP21, along with other dire reports and forecasts.
Another event took place on Nov. 8, which also may turn out to be of unusual historical significance for reasons that, once again, were barely noted.
On Nov. 8, the most powerful country in world history, which will set its stamp on what comes next, had an election. The outcome placed total control of the governmentexecutive, Congress, the Supreme Courtin the hands of the Republican Party, which has become the most dangerous organization in world history.
Apart from the last phrase, all of this is uncontroversial. The last phrase may seem outlandish, even outrageous. But is it? The facts suggest otherwise. The party is dedicated to racing as rapidly as possible to destruction of organized human life. There is no historical precedent for such a stand.
Is this an exaggeration? Consider what we have just been witnessing.
During the Republican primaries, every candidate denied that what is happening is happeningwith the exception of the sensible moderates, like Jeb Bush, who said its all uncertain, but we dont have to do anything because were producing more natural gas, thanks to fracking. Or John Kasich, who agreed that global warming is taking place, but added that we are going to burn [coal] in Ohio and we are not going to apologize for it.
The winning candidate, now the president-elect, calls for rapid increase in use of fossil fuels, including coal; dismantling of regulations; rejection of help to developing countries that are seeking to move to sustainable energy; and in general, racing to the cliff as fast as possible.
Trump has already taken steps to dismantle the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) by placing in charge of the EPA transition a notorious (and proud) climate change denier, Myron Ebell. Trumps top adviser on energy, billionaire oil executive Harold Hamm, announced his expectations, which were predictable: dismantling regulations, tax cuts for the industry (and the wealthy and corporate sector generally), more fossil fuel production, lifting Obamas temporary block on the Dakota Access Pipeline.
The market reacted quickly. Shares in energy corporations boomed, including the worlds largest coal miner, Peabody Energy, which had filed for bankruptcy, but after Trumps victory, registered a 50 percent gain.
Trump Wins, Renewable Energy Investments Lose and Dirty Energy Stocks Surge https://t.co/Znp7VxlB7X @BusinessGreen @Ethical_Corp EcoWatch (@EcoWatch) November 10, 2016
The effects of Republican denialism had already been felt. There had been hopes that the COP21 Paris agreement would lead to a verifiable treaty, but any such thoughts were abandoned because the Republican Congress would not accept any binding commitments, so what emerged was a voluntary agreement, evidently much weaker.
Effects may soon become even more vividly apparent than they already are. In Bangladesh alone, tens of millions are expected to have to flee from low-lying plains in coming years because of sea level rise and more severe weather, creating a migrant crisis that will make todays pale in significance. With considerable justice, Bangladeshs leading climate scientist said that These migrants should have the right to move to the countries from which all these greenhouse gases are coming. Millions should be able to go to the United States. And to the other rich countries that have grown wealthy while bringing about a new geological era, the Anthropocene, marked by radical human transformation of the environment. These catastrophic consequences can only increase, not just in Bangladesh, but in all of South Asia as temperatures, already intolerable for the poor, inexorably rise and the Himalayan glaciers melt, threatening the entire water supply. Already in India, some 300 million people are reported to lack adequate drinking water. And the effects will reach far beyond.
https://twitter.com/EcoWatch/statuses/770944319964471296 Reagans racist fabrications about welfare queens (by implication Black) stealing white peoples hard-earned money and other fantasies.
Sometimes failure to explain, itself a form of contempt, plays a role in fostering hatred of government. I once met a house painter in Boston who had turned bitterly against the evil government after a Washington bureaucrat who knew nothing about painting organized a meeting of painting contractors to inform them that they could no longer use lead paintthe only kind that worksas they all knew, but the suit didnt understand. That destroyed his small business, compelling him to paint houses on his own with substandard stuff forced on him by government elites.
Sometimes there are also some real reasons for these attitudes toward government bureaucracies. Hochschild describes a man whose family and friends are suffering bitterly from the lethal effects of chemical pollution but who despises the government and the liberal elites, because for him, the EPA means some ignorant guy who tells him he cant fish, but does nothing about the chemical plants.
https://twitter.com/EcoWatch/statuses/798172082710319104 Americans with real family values who see their familiar country as disappearing before their eyes.
One of the difficulties in raising public concern over the very severe threats of global warming is that 40 percent of the U.S. population does not see why it is a problem, since Christ is returning in a few decades. About the same percentage believe that the world was created a few thousand years ago. If science conflicts with the Bible, so much the worse for science. It would be hard to find an analogue in other societies.
The Democratic Party abandoned any real concern for working people by the 1970s and they have therefore been drawn to the ranks of their bitter class enemies, who at least pretend to speak their languageReagans folksy style of making little jokes while eating jelly beans, George W. Bushs carefully cultivated image of a regular guy you could meet in a bar who loved to cut brush on the ranch in 100-degree heat and his probably faked mispronunciations (its unlikely that he talked like that at Yale), and now Trump, who gives voice to people with legitimate grievancespeople who have lost not just jobs, but also a sense of personal self-worthand who rails against the government that they perceive as having undermined their lives (not without reason).
One of the great achievements of the doctrinal system has been to divert anger from the corporate sector to the government that implements the programs that the corporate sector designs, such as the highly protectionist corporate/investor rights agreements that are uniformly mis-described as free trade agreements in the media and commentary. With all its flaws, the government is, to some extent, under popular influence and control, unlike the corporate sector. It is highly advantageous for the business world to foster hatred for pointy-headed government bureaucrats and to drive out of peoples minds the subversive idea that the government might become an instrument of popular will, a government of, by and for the people.
To read Chomskys answers to non-eco-related questions, click here. Reposted with permission from our media associate Truthout.
By Matthew Savoca
Imagine that you are constantly eating, but slowly starving to death. Hundreds of species of marine mammals, fish, birds and sea turtles face this risk every day when they mistake plastic debris for food.
Plastic debris can be found in oceans around the world. Scientists have estimated that there are more than 5 trillion pieces of plastic weighing more than a quarter of a million tons floating at sea globally. Most of this plastic debris comes from sources on land and ends up in oceans and bays due largely to poor waste management.
Plastic does not biodegrade, but at sea large pieces of plastic break down into increasingly smaller fragments that are easy for animals to consume. Nothing good comes to animals that mistake plastic for a meal. They may suffer from malnutrition, intestinal blockage or slow poisoning from chemicals in or attached to the plastic.
Many seabird species, including the blue petrel (Halobaena caerulea), consume plastic at sea because algae on the plastic produce an odor that resembles their food sources. J.J. Harrison
Despite the pervasiveness and severity of this problem, scientists still do not fully understand why so many marine animals make this mistake in the first place. It has been commonly assumed, but rarely tested, that seabirds eat plastic debris because it looks like the birds natural prey. However, in a study that my coauthors and I just published in Science Advances, we propose a new explanation: For many imperiled species, marine plastic debris also produces an odor that the birds associate with food.
A Nose for Sulfur
Perhaps the most severely impacted animals are tube-nosed seabirds, a group that includes albatrosses, shearwaters and petrels. These birds are pelagic: they often remain at sea for years at a time, searching for food over hundreds or thousands of square kilometers of open ocean, visiting land only to breed and rear their young. Many are also at risk of extinction. According to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, nearly half of the approximately 120 species of tube-nosed seabirds are either threatened, endangered or critically endangered.
Although there are many fish in the sea, areas that reliably contain food are very patchy. In other words, tube-nosed seabirds are searching for a needle in a haystack when they forage. They may be searching for fish, squid, krill or other items, and it is possible that plastic debris visually resembles these prey. But we believe that tells only part of a more complex story.
A sooty shearwater (Puffinus griseus) takes off from the oceans surface in Morro Bay, California. Mike Baird / Flickr
Pioneering research by Dr. Thomas Grubb Jr. in the early 1970s showed that tube-nosed seabirds use their powerful sense of smell or olfaction, to find food effectively, even when heavy fog obscures their vision. Two decades later, Dr. Gabrielle Nevitt and colleagues found that certain species of tube-nosed seabirds are attracted to dimethyl sulfide (DMS), a natural scented sulfur compound. DMS comes from marine algae, which produce a related chemical called DMSP inside their cells. When those cells are damagedfor example, when algae die, or when marine grazers like krill eat itDMSP breaks down, producing DMS. The smell of DMS alerts seabirds that food is nearbynot the algae, but the krill that are consuming the algae.
Dr. Nevitt and I wondered whether these seabirds were being tricked into consuming marine plastic debris because of the way it smelled. To test this idea, my coauthors and I created a database collecting every study we could find that recorded plastic ingestion by tube-nosed seabirds over the past 50 years. This database contained information from over 20,000 birds of more than 70 species. It showed that species of birds that use DMS as a foraging cue eat plastic nearly six times as frequently as species that are not attracted to the smell of DMS while foraging.
To further test our theory, we needed to analyze how marine plastic debris smells. To do so, I took beads of the three most common types of floating plasticpolypropylene and low-and high-density polyethyleneand sewed them inside custom mesh bags, which we attached to two buoys off of Californias central coast. We hypothesized that algae would coat the plastic at sea, a process known as biofouling and produce DMS.
Author Matthew Savoca deploys experimental plastic debris at a buoy in Monterey Bay, California.
After the plastic had been immersed for about a month at sea, I retrieved it and brought it to a lab that is not usually a stop for marine scientists: the Robert Mondavi Institute for Food and Wine Science at UC Davis. There we used a gas chromatograph, specifically built to detect sulfur odors in wine, beer and other food products, to measure the chemical signature of our experimental marine debris. Sulfur compounds have a very distinct odor; to humans they smell like rotten eggs or decaying seaweed on the beach, but to some species of seabirds DMS smells delicious!
Sure enough, every sample of plastic we collected was coated with algae and had substantial amounts of DMS associated with it. We found levels of DMS that were higher than normal background concentrations in the environment and well above levels that tube-nosed seabirds can detect and use to find food. These results provide the first evidence that, in addition to looking like food, plastic debris may also confuse seabirds that hunt by smell.
When Trash Becomes Bait
Our findings have important implications. First, they suggest that plastic debris may be a more insidious threat to marine life than we previously believed. If plastic looks and smells like food, it is more likely to be mistaken for prey than if it just looks like food.
Second, we found through data analysis that small, secretive burrow-nesting seabirds, such as prions, storm petrels and shearwaters, are more likely to confuse plastic for food than their more charismatic, surface-nesting relatives such as albatrosses. This difference matters because populations of hard-to-observe burrow-nesting seabirds are more difficult to count than surface-nesting species, so they often are not surveyed as closely. Therefore, we recommend increased monitoring of these less charismatic species that may be at greater risk of plastic ingestion.
Finally, our results provide a deeper understanding for why certain marine organisms are inexorably trapped into mistaking plastic for food. The patterns we found in birds should also be investigated in other groups of species, like fish or sea turtles. Reducing marine plastic pollution is a long-term, large-scale challenge, but figuring out why some species continue to mistake plastic for food is the first step toward finding ways to protect them.
Matthew Savoca is a Ph.D. student in the Graduate Group in Ecology at UC Davis.
Reposted with permission from our media associate The Conversation.
Swedens Vattenfall set a world record for the lowest price ever paid for offshore wind power. The state-owned energy company bid EUR 49.9 (or $54) per megawatt-hour to develop the Danish Kriegers Flak, a 600-megawatt offshore wind farm in the Baltic Sea, about 15 kilometers off the Danish island Mn. Kriegers Flak. For comparison, the average cost of offshore wind is around $126 per megawatt-hour.
Kriegers Flak, the worlds first offshore electricity Supergrid Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark
The Kriegers Flak is set for operations by 2022 and will be Denmarks largest offshore wind farm. The farm will be able to supply 600,000 households with renewable energy, or 23 percent of all Danish households.
As a pioneer in wind power, having installed its first turbines in the mid-1970s, Denmarks latest renewable energy project puts the country on track to meet its 2020 goal of getting 50 percent of its power from renewables. The nation plans to ditch fossil fuels entirely by 2050.
The announcement is an essential milestone for our ambition to increase our production of renewable power, Vattenfall CEO Magnus Hall said. We are already the second largest offshore player globally. The winning bid of EUR 49.9 per megawatt-hour proves that Vattenfall is highly competitive and brings down the costs for renewable energy.
Kriegers Flak, expected for operation by 2022, is a 600 megawatt offshore wind farm in the Baltic Sea. Vattenfall
Vattenfall has now won tenders for three major offshore wind farmsHorns Rev 3, Danish Near Shore and Kriegers Flak. The company invested between 1.11.3 billion EUR in Kriegers Flak, pending a final investment decision.
Our winning bid for Kriegers Flak is 58 percent below the original cap of EUR 0.12. For the Danish Near Shore project the bid was also substantially below its cap, Vattenfall head Gunnar Groebler said. Proceeding with these two projects, Vattenfall provides Denmark with a cost efficient contribution to meet the countrys climate targets and customerss demand for renewable energy.
Denmarks newest offshore wind farm will be constructed in a 132-square-kilometer area in the Baltic Sea, an area that will be home to the worlds first Supergrid. The area actually consists of three sections dedicated to wind power development in Germany, Sweden and Denmark.
The Supergrid will ideally supply cheap renewable energy to a large swath of European consumers and enable electricity trading between individual countriesall while decreasing Europes need for imported fossil fuels. The idea is that its always windy somewhere.
In close partnership with their regional neighbors, Sweden and Germany, the Kriegers Flak area in the Baltic Sea, has been chosen as the first place in the world to have an offshore electricity grid, Denmarks Ministry of Foreign Affairs website boasts. The planned 600 megawatt offshore wind farm will act like a Supergrid, eventually being able to transmit renewable energy through power grids to all three countries.
The Supergrid would serve three purposes: Bring renewable energy to European consumers, strengthen regional energy markets and increase the security of supply by providing transmission capacity.
According to a Vattenfall press release, the Swedish part of Kriegers Flak has a building permit that expires in 2018 and the German part has not yet been tendered.
The November supermoon has gained attention around the world for its beauty, but is also bringing high water to flood-prone regions from South Florida to Maine.
Kevin Baird/Flickr
The moon, which follows an elliptical orbit, is at its closest approach to the Earth since 1948. The full moon, in alignment with the Earth and sun, combines with the unusually close distance to create a strong gravitational pull.
In South Florida, where king tides routinely flood low-lying areas, the National Weather Service issued a coastal flood advisory through 4 p.m. Wednesday. The highest tides are expected for Tuesday and Wednesday. Coconut Grove already had six inches of water in the street by Sunday night.
#supermoon affecting high tides and causing flooding in Jax. pic.twitter.com/CWzNcofP8Z Amber Krycka (@AmberKrycka) November 13, 2016
Further up the coast, Jacksonville Beach and Saint Augustine began to flood yesterday as well. Weather.com meteorologist Chris Dolce warned that coastal areas in Georgia and South Carolina could be at risk.
Flooding in the Boston area is expected, where the highest tides will come on Tuesday around 11 a.m. Maine is on alert as well. Rain and easterly winds are forecast across the Northeast tomorrow, exacerbating the effects of the the moon and tides.
The sea level along coastal Massachusetts has risen four inches since 1950. Along South Florida, seas may rise 10 inches by 2030 from their 1992 levels. Flooding events in Miami Beach have jumped 400 percent in the past 10 years.
During Octobers king tides, Charleston, Savannah and Miami all experienced flooding. It has become routine for saltwater to invade homes and basements and parking garages in South Florida. Fish can be seen swimming in the streets during king tides. Roads get washed out.
During a campaign debate in October, Sen. Marco Rubio denied that climate change has anything to do with sea level rise or Floridas regular flooding events. Now re-elected for another six-year term, he has refused to meet with 15 Florida mayors who asked in January for a meeting to discuss the climate change risks they are facing.
https://twitter.com/EcoWatch/statuses/788849806907146240 expand=1]
Scientists expect the supermoon to make things even worse.
That additional gravitational pull has caused our high tides to be a little bit higher than they would have been without that supermoon, said Dr. Tiffany Troxler, director of Florida International Universitys Sea Level Solutions Center, in an interview with CBS News.
Photographs of the supermoon have been posted since last night as skywatchers enjoy the show. The next time the moon gets this close will be in 2034.
[instagram https://www.instagram.com/p/BMzEhJjjZwK/?tagged=supermoon2016
Donald Trumps advisers are exploring alternatives to bypass the four-year waiting period to back out from the Paris agreement, a member of the transition team told Reuters.
The options include withdrawing from the parent treaty, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, entirely or issuing a presidential order to delete the U.S. signature from the climate deal.
Before leaving for Marrakech on Sunday, Sec. of State John Kerry said that the Obama administration would do everything possible to implement the global agreement before Trump takes office.
In an interview, former French President Nicolas Sarkozy said Europe should respond with a trade war and institute a carbon tax for U.S. products if Trump backs out.
Backing out of the Paris agreement isnt the only anti-environment plan Trump has been touting. He has also said he wants to dismantle the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and revoke the Clean Power Plan.
Trumps man-in-charge of leading the transition at the EPA is Myron Ebell, a known climate denier who opposes the Clean Power Plan and advocates for opening up more federal lands to logging, coal mining and oil drilling.
He is a director at fossil-fuel-funded Competitive Enterprise Institute and leads the Cooler Heads Coalition, which focuses on dispelling the myths of global warming.
One scholar points out that Trumps attempts to weaken the EPA are reminiscent of Reagans appointment of Anne Gorsuch Burford to head the agency, whose attempts to dismantle EPA in the early 1980s resulted in heavy criticism and pushback.
For a deeper dive:
Trump: Reuters, The Hill, ThinkProgress, Guardian, Slate, Bloomberg, New York Times
Kerry: AP, Reuters, Wall Street Journal, Mashable, VOA News
Commentary: Guardian editorial
Myron Ebell: Washington Post, New York Times, Undark, Cosmopolitan
For more climate change and clean energy news, you can follow Climate Nexus on Twitter and Facebook, and sign up for daily Hot News.
(Photo: Screen grab from Bolivia President Evo Morales presents the gift to Pope Francis)Bolivia President Evo Morales seeks to present Pope Francis with a crucifix mounted on a hammer and sickle on July 9, 2015.
Pope Francis is a champion of the poor, but he was not impressed when his Bolivian host President Evo Morales sought to give him a gift of a crucifix mounted on a hammer and sickle.
The Pope rebuked Morales after the left-wing South American leader presented him with the crucifix mounted on the international symbol of the avowedly atheist creed of communism July 9, The Telegraph reported.
Morales is an anti-clerical champion of indigenous rights, has taken decisive steps to empower Bolivia's 36 native groups and embed their rights in the country's constitution, International Business Times reported.
The Bolivian president has also acted to change the constitution in 2009, making the Catholic nation a secular country and removed the Bible and cross from the presidential palace when he took office in 2006.
"That's not right," the Pope noted, The Telegraph said.
It said the slight was more notable as the Argentine leader of the Catholic Church had praised the social and economic reforms of Morales when he arrived from Ecuador on the second stage of a three-country tour of South America.
In Santa Cruz at a Mass for hundreds of thousands of people in Bolivia, said on July 9 that everyone had a moral duty to help the poor, and that those with means could not wish they would just "go away," Reuters reported.
"If one can apply the term to a 78-year-old prelate who has turned lack of ostentation into an art form, then Pope Francis is a rock star," The Economist comments in its latest edition.
It said the eight-day tour of the papacy and the first to Spanish-speaking America - may do more than underline the popularity in his home region of Jorge Mario Bergoglio.
"It may add political definition to his papacy."
Francis' words have stirred supporters of liberation theology, a set of leftist ideas that were influential in Latin America in the 1970s and 1980s, wrote The Economist.
Francis accelerated beatification of Oscar Romero, a Salvadorean archbishop who was gunned down by a right-wing death squad while celebrating mass in 1980 and is a hero to the left.
"Yet Father Bergoglio always rejected Marxism and violent revolution, which some leftist priests supported.
"Rather than embracing liberation theology, he is reinterpreting it for a post-Marxist age. Romero's 'option for the poor wasn't ideological but evangelical,' says the Vatican.
"The Pope's criticisms of free-market capitalism chime both with traditional Catholic social doctrine and with Peronism, Argentina's populist-nationalist political movement, to which he was once close," wrote the weekly newspaper.
It continued that the biggest test of the Pope's political skill will be whether he can help to bring about a peaceful and democratic transition in Venezuela.
There, "the unpopular government of Nicolas Maduro faces likely defeat in a parliamentary election this year - if it is free and fair."
Francis leaves July 10 for Paraguay, the last stop on his "homecoming" trip.
Even as collaboration between UK and India was repeatedly highlighted at the recently concluded technology summit in Delhi, the British visa policy for international students and professionals remained the most debated topic. Figures have shown that Indian students opting for higher studies in the UK have drastically reduced, causing concern among the British academic world. Many academics are being vocal about their views and are campaigning hard to woo back Indian students to their universities.
Keith Burnett, president and vice-chancellor, University of Sheffield, said: There is dismay among the Indian community as we talk stronger trade ties and further collaboration between the countries; they ask, UK wants our trade but not our children? He further added that education is and must remain without borders.
Echoing similar views, Charlie Jeffery , senior vice-principal , University of Edinburgh , added, How can you talk about free trade and curb the mobility of people? Mobility is vital for any successful international engagement.
To reassure international students that they are welcome in the UK, Sheffield launched `WeAreInternational.' Now over 100 universities and organisations across the UK have joined forces to advocate for international students, staff, research and collaborations in higher education.
The campaign states: We are committed to ensuring our universities remain diverse, inclusive communities of international scholarships open to students and staff from across the world. We will continue to ensure our research knows no geographical boundaries and our students and staff from around the world are able to celebrate their own cultures and friendships.
The Edinburgh University Students Association runs a project titled EUSA Global, which aims to enhance the global community for all students on campus, in the city and beyond. The blog shares global stories of the university community both on campus and overseas.
Anton Muscatelli, principal and vice-chancellor, University of Glasgow, is optimistic that a post-Brexit UK will be forced to take a more liberal stand to meet its economic goals. Post-Brexit, higher education should be in the forefront. And since we are talking stronger trade ties, you have to encourage the flow of people, ideas and talent.
Rajesh Agrawal, deputy mayor of London for business, said: In the aftermath of Brexit, it is more important than ever that companies in London and across UK have access to global talent that is needed for economic prosperity.
Recently, the UK announced changes in the tier 2 intra-company transfer category where professionals have to meet a higher salary threshold which may impact a large number of Indians especially in the IT sector. Agrawal has requested Theresa May, British Prime Minister, to relax the rules on Indian visas for highly skilled workers going to Britain. He further added that London had benefitted a lot from international students and professionals and the city would continue to welcome them.
The academics and Agrawal reiterated that international students should not be included in the migration targets. According to a recent report by the Universities UK (UUK), At a time when Britain is seeking to promote industries that can take advantage of global growth driven from beyond Europe, our higher education sector should be challenged and supported to increase its share of the rapidly expanding international student market. This is why it was always a mistake to include the student migrant flow within a target to reduce total immigration numbers.
The report reveals that there is strong public support for international student migration, and that people seem to understand the economic and educational benefits brought to Britain by those who come to study. The report says that 75% think that international students should be allowed to stay and work in Britain after graduating from British universities, using their skills for the benefit of the economy, for at least a period of time.
Around 59% of the public says the government should not reduce international student numbers, even if that limits the governments ability to cut immigration numbers overall, while only 22% take the opposing view.
As Kilolo Moyo-White watched her 8th grade students walk through the newly opened National Museum of African American History and Culture, in Washington, she felt a sense of awe.
Seeing the exhibits last month felt like an affirmation of her identity, she said, which was also felt by her students from the Global Leadership Academy Charter School in Philadelphia, most of whom are black.
It was just a transformative moment for them to be able to see themselves in that history and to be able to connect it so quickly to whats happening in our society today, Moyo-White said. For some, I think that was a little upsetting and troubling. But I think they were also calmed by the beauty of the museum and the fact that this museum is honoring that hard work, those trials and tribulations, instead of just shading over it.
The museum, which cost $540 million and took 11 years to come to fruition, opened on Washingtons National Mall Sept. 24. While the exact number of school groups that have visited since then was not readily available, educators and students are already flocking to the museum to see the stories of influential African-Americans from past and present.
Next year, the museum, which has offered educational programming for several years before there was a physical building, will formalize additional resources for students and teachers, including official school tours. Candra Flanagan, the coordinator of student and teacher initiatives, said the museums education staff wanted some time to observe what exhibits crowds would gravitate toward.
Also in 2017, she said, the museum will roll out more tools for educators, such as previsit guides, online activities, and other information sources to support classroom learning. The museum also plans to host one-day thematic workshops for teachers about various topics in history or history education four to six times a year.
Meanwhile, many of the stories and collections in the museum are on the museums website. Teaching Tolerance, an educational project of the Southern Poverty Law Center, has developed a free tool kit for teachers that compiles some of the available resources they can bring to their classrooms.
Adrienne van der Valk, the deputy director of Teaching Tolerance, said the museums resources are designed to help educators start a dialogue about race with their students, from a historical perspective.
I think they allow you to tell the story of American history through an African-American lens, van der Valk said, particularly if youre a white teacherthats not your lens. I think having a set of robust, vetted tools to bring that history to the classroom is very important.
Telling a Complete Story
The museums exhibits add context to the school curriculum and give educators an opportunity to share a complete story of African-American history and culture, she said.
The stories in the museum are those of resilience, triumph, culture, and identity, van der Valk said. Upsetting exhibits in the museumsuch as images of lynchingsare marked by a red border and a sign warning visitors of graphic content.
I think that one of the considerations that we take with the material is to look at the humanity that is involved in the story and find the triumph in the story, even if its a hard story, the museums Flanagan said. I think sometimes we think that children cant take in something thats serious or hard or dark. I think children can take it in. Its a matter of using age-appropriate language and connecting it to something they can understand, like fairness, justice, and inclusion.
In fact, the museum has an education initiative geared to children from birth to 8. Flanagan said research shows that children as young as 6 months see differences in people, making it important for them develop a positive identity early on.
For the past three years, the museum has offered a workshop for teachers on talking about race in the classroom. Eighty-two percent of teachers are white, while just over half of U.S. public school students are nonwhite.
The conversation about race and racism is not a conversation that needs to happen just among African-Americans, Flanagan said. We want all teachers to feel involved in this conversation and not outside of it because theyre not a person of color or theyre not teaching students of color.
Uncomfortable Conversations
Teachers have different comfort levels in discussing race, Flanagan said. She said some teachers discuss slavery as an economic institution and ignore the racial aspect. One of the museums goals, she said, is to help teachers become comfortable talking about race in historical ways: Thats the first step to talking about it in a contemporary way.
During the National Council of Social Studies annual conference in Washington in December, the museum plans to offer a session on discussing race in class.
Lauren Funk, a social studies teacher at Nashoba Brooks School, a private, all-girls middle school in Concord, Mass., will attend that workshop. She said she teaches in an affluent community and tries to work with her students to acknowledge their privilegespecifically, she said, white privilege.
I think we have to lean into that discomfort, Funk said, having our kids actually know that this matters and these conversations need to be had, but also providing a safe space to kids who might be marginalized.
Funk said she tries to teach students that as much progress as has been made with race in the United States, things are not yet perfect. "[Talking about race] can be challenging work, she said. It can feel overwhelming and isolating as a teacher. I think its really helpful to connect with other educators but also get support from organizations and individuals.
She said the museum exhibits tie into her spring-semester curriculum: implementing change in an imperfect democracy, with a focus on civil rights. Funk is taking her students to visit the museum in January as part of a trip to the presidential inauguration.
I think its probably going to be a hard experience for some of the students, but I also think itll be an important one, Funk said. I think there will be some disturbing truth in there, but also some emphasis on the joy in the [African-American] experience and the pride in the experience.
When teachers walked into their classrooms the morning after Donald Trump claimed the presidency in a stunning victory, they had their work cut out for them.
Some students were jubilant, with many wearing Make America Great Again hats and shirts in celebration. Others were angry and upset, with some crying in class. Immigrant students, or those from immigrant families, expressed fear that they or their family members would be deported under the Trump administration.
In a handful of schools, including in Berkeley, Calif.; Phoenix; and Des Moines, Iowa, studentsand in some cases, teachersstaged walkouts in protest of the Republican nominees win. Educators even reported physical outbursts and confrontations as emotions ran high.
Now, teachers must work to ease divisions in their classrooms. They must soothe the fears of their students of color, while giving all students space to process their feelings about the elections outcome.
For many educators, that seems like a hefty task after the long, bitter campaign season. And while there are certainly teachers who supported Trump, many others said they were reeling from the outcome themselves while trying to comfort their students.
I normally draw a big sense of hope from my kids. Even when the world is awry, being a teacher gives me a lot of hope, Christina Torres, who teaches 7th and 9th grades in Honolulu and who supported Democrat Hillary Clinton, said the day after the Nov. 8 election. I think today, thats going to have to be my job. That feels like a big ask of my own heart.
"[Teachers need to give students] space to process, space to be afraid, space to love them, but were going to be the ones to help provide them the tools, said Torres. That just feels hard today.
A victory by Clinton, which most opinion polls had pointed to, would have provided a ready-made lesson about the nations first woman presidentthe successor to its first black president. The victory by Trump, the tough-talking real estate mogul and political novice, told a more complex tale about America and its anxieties and aspirations.
While some teachers opted to remain quiet about the election results, many said they felt they had no choice. Students were deeply invested in this election, teachers said.
Jessie Sennett, a 5th grade teacher on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota, said her students, who were distraught, knew the results when they walked into the classroom: They didnt have to be told, which is surprising, because a lot of them dont have internet, TV, phones. But they knew.
Many teachers said they devoted some class time on Wednesday to reflection, via journaling, drawing, or talking.
Elizabeth Simison, who teaches high school English in rural Colchester, Conn., said Trump won her county by just 96 votes. That almost-even division made a conversation with her students feel even more necessaryand difficult.
She began each of her classes with 15 minutes of open discussion. Students were quiet at first.
Then, they started talkingquestioning the Electoral College, voicing fear for LGBT and minority communities, evaluating media biases, and considering the effect of the new president on foreign and domestic policies. They wondered how long it might take the country to get back on track, and then tried to define what back on track meant.
Just knowing that this is so important and giving students the floor to embrace that and talk about it in such a reasonable way felt really important to us, Simison said.
Worries About Trump Effect
In recent months, educators have pointed out a Trump effect in schools: a spike in anxiety among students of color , particularly immigrant students and students from immigrant families, which teachers have attributed to the Republican candidates inflammatory words about Muslim and Mexican immigration. Teachers say they fear an uptick in racially or ethnically motivated bullying. And indeed, in the days after the election, some educators have already reported instances of students telling their Hispanic peers that they will be deported, or their Muslim peers that they are not welcome in the United States.
See Also Complete Coverage: 2016 Election
What do you tell kids about being a bully when the president is a bully? said Torres, who is also an opinion blogger for Education Week Teacher . What do you tell kids about mocking disabled people when he has done that?
RaShawna Sydnor, who teaches 6th to 8th graders in Baltimore, said her students were astonished that Trump was elected president after his sexually crude or derogatory comments about women and allegations that he had committed sexual assaults.
They are troubled by the idea that a man who has these attributes could be the president. Some of the things he does, they could get in trouble for, said Sydnor.
That discrepancy bothered Anne Gunden, an 8th grade teacher in Valley Center, Kan., so much that she started crying in class on the day after the election. Her students largely support Trump, she said, but she thought it was important for her to tell them that regardless of politics, mimicking Trumps language is inappropriate.
"[I told them] I was struggling to understand how on earth I would be able to demand respectful communication from my students if they were to have an elected leader who uses such divisive rhetoric, Gunden said in an email.
I voiced my hope that we might hear less of this kind of language coming from Mr. Trump now that he has been elected, she said, but I also pointed out that even if his language doesnt change, it does not make it OK to use in our classroom.
Ciara Miller, a 10th grade social studies teacher in Pasco County, Fla., had to defuse a confrontation between two studentsa Trump supporter and a Clinton supporterthe day after the election.
I said, no ... we talk about how much we want tolerance and expect it from others, Miller said. She told both students to be respectful of other opinions. And she asked the Trump supporter to consider that students who supported Clinton were hurting. It was at least an opportunity to teach students how to handle conflict, Miller said.
Coming Together
In the weeks ahead, teachers should focus on reassuring all students that theyre safe, said Maureen Costello, the director of Teaching Tolerance, an educational project of the Southern Poverty Law Center.
And, she said, teachers should work to rebuild their own classroom communities while trying to return to a sense of normalcy. In a sense, really echoing what the president-elect has said [in his victory speech]: Its a time to come together, Costello said.
Teachers Tweet Some reactions to the election: @zdeibel Having difficulty teaching engagement, empathy, and understanding when opposite traits win the presidency. @BethTimbal My plan is to... 1. Give students a safe place and time to debrief their emotions. 2. Pose some thoughtful and guiding questions. 3. Listen @jharalsonedu My teaching plan for today includes reminding #ELL Ss that our school is always + forever a safe space for them to learn, grow, be, do.
Kyle Redford, a 5th grade teacher in Corte Madera, Calif., and an opinion blogger for Education Week Teacher, said she played Clintons concession speech for her students. Upon viewing it, her students, who were initially upset about Clintons loss, said they felt more encouraged about the future and were willing to give Trump a chance.
One student, Redford recounted in an email, said: Even if we are young, we can still make a big change because we live in a democracy. We can still fight for the things we believe in.
Teaching Tolerances Costello said teachers should now focus on encouraging their students to be active citizens. Voting is not the only thing citizens do, she said.
Reminding students of the checks and balances in government feels particularly important, teachers said. Deborah Gesualdo, a music teacher in Malden, Mass., said she has been reassuring her students of a peaceful transition of power.
I keep reminding them that no matter who you support in an election, its important to respect each other, she said. And I think we as adults have to set that example, because were seeing a lot of disrespect in general in the country right now.
The role of education, teachers said, will be especially important as the country tries to move forward.
How do we as a nation begin to heal from here? Torres, the teacher in Hawaii, said. Theres never been a more important time to be an American teacher.
The Luxembourg EIB Climate Finance Platform has been welcomed as an international model for increasing climate investment using limited public sector support and representing a key step to tackle the challenge of limited equity investment in climate projects. The new initiative will enable climate focused investment funds to support high-impact climate projects around the world and bring in additional support from private investors who otherwise could not back more challenging climate schemes.
Access to public funds to reduce investment risk is essential to scale up climate finance from private investors. Initiatives such as the new Luxembourg-EIB Climate Finance Platform represent a clear model for others to follow, said Elvira Lefting, Managing Director of fund manager Finance in Motion.
The contribution of the new Luxembourg EIB Climate Finance Platform to unlocking new climate investment and address the limited availability of equity investment in climate projects was outlined to representatives of countries, financial institutions and international fund managers at the COP 22 climate conference currently being held in Marrakesh, Morocco.
Governments around the world have limited public budgets and unlocking private investment is essential to address climate change. Luxembourg is pleased to work with the European Investment Bank, the worlds largest lender for climate related investment, to support the Luxembourg-EIB Climate Finance Platform. highlighted Carole Dieschbourg, Luxembourg Minister of the Environment.
This new initiative will support Luxembourg based climate investment funds to support high-impact climate projects inside and outside Europe and be managed by the European Investment Bank, the worlds largest financier for climate related investment.
Mobilising new investment for projects that help tackle climate change is a global challenge. Here at COP 22 in Marrakech the global community is starting to implement the historic Paris Climate Agreement and sharing experience of successful initiatives such as the Luxembourg-EIB Climate Finance Platform will strengthen similar efforts elsewhere around the world. At a time when political leadership on climate is needed, it is essential for Europe to show how climate challenges can be turned into opportunities through exciting new initiatives such as this. Considering the importance of our financial centre, it is only natural that Luxembourg is a frontrunner in shifting towards sustainable investments. added Minister Dieschbourg.
Earlier this month Luxembourg ratified the Paris Climate Agreement and Luxembourg has agreed to contribute EUR 30 million to this new initiative as a key element of Luxembourgs climate finance engagement. Luxembourgs overall dedicated international climate finance contribution represents EUR 120 million, corresponding to EUR 215 per inhabitant, making Luxembourg one of the biggest per capita donors. This contribution comes on top of official development assistance.
Scaling up private finance is a priority of the global climate agenda and a key focus is to increase the impact of the European Investment Banks own climate financing. Simply speaking if private investment is not mobilised, efforts to tackle climate change will fail. confirmed Jonathan Taylor, European Investment Bank Vice President.
Luxembourgs environment minister Carole Dieschbourg and Finance Minister Pierre Gramegna formally launched the Luxembourg EIB Climate Finance Platform with EIB President Werner Hoyer last month.
Successful effort to tackle local challenges of a changing climate and increase the impact of investment require innovative financing. This new initiative will help unlock new climate focused equity investment in regions most vulnerable to climate change Monique Barbu, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention to combat desertification.
Over the last five years the European Investment Bank has provided more than EUR 90 billion for climate related investment and EIB climate finance reached a record high in EUR 20.7 billion in 2015. Prior to COP 21 in Paris the European Investment Bank adopted its first Climate Lending Strategy which reinforced the climate related impact of all EIB financing activity.
China-based Foxconn is the primary site where Apples iPhone is produced.
China threatened to prevent American trade if U.S. president-elect Donald Trump imposes his campaign promise to place massive tariffs on the countrys imports.
China-based Foxconn, which has nearly 1.5 million workers, is the primary site where Apples iPhone is produced. China could step in and stop or disrupt production if Trumps threatened tariffs are made official.
One of the most notable pledges that Trump made during his campaign was to order what he referred to as defensive tariffs of 45% on Chinese imports and to force Beijing to officially declare itself a currency manipulator. At a rally in Florida in August, Trump suggested these tariffs would force China to stop the cheating.
An op-ed published in Chinas state-run newspaper, Global Times , warned that the Peoples Republic would adopt a tit-for-tat approach, which would result in the country no longer buying American goods, including the ever-so-popular Apple products. It read:
A batch of Boeing orders will be replaced by Airbus. U.S. auto and iPhone sales in China will suffer a setback, and U.S. soybean and maize imports will be halted. China can also limit the number of Chinese students studying in the U.S.
Trump as a shrewd businessman will not be so naive. None of the previous presidents were bold enough to launch an all-out trade war against China. They all opted for a cautious line since it's most consistent with the overall interests of the U.S., and it's most acceptable to U.S. society.
A report conducted at the end of 2015 found that an estimated 131 million iPhones are in use in China, more than any other manufacturer. Data released by the Chinese government noted that Apple had 16.8% of the market, a point higher than Samsung, and 1.2% more than China-based Xiaomi.
Shortly after Barack Obama was elected president the first time, the U.S. issued a 35% import tariff on Chinese tires. This urged retaliatory tariffs on chicken and car exports.
Both China and the U.S. suffered losses as a result, the Global Times said. From then on, the Obama administration waged no trade war against China. If Trump imposes a 45% tariff on Chinese imports, China-U.S. trade will be paralyzed.
Source: Ars Technica
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Police issue advice on avoiding burglaries
Police are urging Isle of Man residents not to make themselves easy targets for burglars.
The Isle of Man Constabulary issued advice on not becoming a victim of burglary on its Facebook page.
The police advise making sure valuables are not on display, while considering technology such as CCTV, alarms and lighting timers.
The constabulary has been using its social media accounts to share tips on avoiding crime over the last couple of weeks as part of its Time To Change campaign.
Trump can get us the China deal we deserve By Dr. Peter Morici
To win the presidency, Donald Trump promised to cut taxes, boost energy production, roll back excessive business regulations and much more, but nothing would deliver more punch for growth and jobs than his promise to fix America's broken trade policy. The economic reasoning behind free trade is simple. Lowering tariffs and other barriers to international commerce raises productivity by permitting businesses and workers to specialize more at what they do best. For the iPhone, that's why Apple keeps in America product design, software development and some sophisticated parts manufacturing but outsources to Asia many other components and assembly. If US foreign sales approximately equaled purchases from abroad, Americans would be a lot richer, because workers in exporting industries are about 10 percent more productive than those competing with imports. Sadly, our trade deals have not worked out that way dating back to the 1947 General Agreements on Trade and likely through the proposed Trans-Pacific Partnership. Lowering tariffs and other barriers to international commerce raises productivity by permitting businesses and workers to specialize more at what they do best. In 2015, US foreign sales totaled $2.3 trillion and that permitted Americans to buy a like amount of foreign goods and services. The resulting productivity gains from greater worker specialization lifted US GDP by some $240 billion. However, American imports totaled about $2.8 trillion, and the $500 billion trade deficit destroyed 4 million jobs that were not replaced by exports. On net, lost demand for US-made goods and services directly reduced GDP by $260 billion and at least another $130 billion if we count in lost spending by idled workers and shuttered businesses. Those losses overwhelmed the productivity gains from trade and the benefits consumers receive from purchasing less expensive consumer goods. The trade deficits with China and on petroleum account for virtually the entire US imbalance thanks to Chinese currency manipulation, restrictions on American-made products and investment, and US government constraints on transportation projects like the Keystone Pipeline and on the production of domestic oil and gas. President-elect Trump would be well within his executive powers to temporarily impose a 45 percent tariff on Chinese imports to leverage renegotiation and better enforcement of the 2001 US-China bilateral agreement that facilitated China's membership in the World Trade Organization. He could free up some energy projects through executive order but would need congressional approval to instigate expanded drilling in many areas. Still, working with Republican majorities in the House and Senate and Democrats from energy-producing states, making America energy independent is well within his grasp. None of this would require very much additional federal spending, but it would generate a lot of new revenues to help pay for Trump's proposed tax cuts. Eliminating the trade deficit would boost GDP by at least $500 billion or at least 2.5 percent and create about 4 million good paying jobs over three to five years. The longer term effects of eliminating trade deficits are even more profound. Most of the additional economic activity gained from eliminating the trade deficit would be in manufacturing. That sector supports a lion's share of research and development (R&D) spending the wellspring of American innovation, international competitiveness and productivity growth. Eliminating the trade deficit could easily boost R&D enough to permanently increase economic growth by 1 or 2 percentage points. As a former US trade official, I know our negotiators work hard to ensure new trade agreements create at least as much in new exports as additional imports but too many of our trade agreements simply don't measure up or are not adequately enforced. For example, the 2001 agreement permits China to maintain a 9.6 percent average tariff on imports, whereas the US average duty is 3.5 percent. And Presidents George W. Bush and Obama repeatedly denied industry pleas to take substantive action against China's undervalued currency. Now President Obama would like congress to ratify the recently negotiated Trans-Pacific Partnership with 11 other nations. However, consider the impact of the US-Korea Free Trade Pact. Since it was inaugurated in 2011, the bilateral trade deficit is up about $16 billion and more than 130,000 jobs have been lost. No one should want to withdraw America from global commerce economic isolationism merely limits consumer choices, stifles competition and encourages stagnation. Getting a fair and balanced deal for American workers was a winning campaign strategy for Trump and for America's future, because it makes good economic sense. Peter Morici is a business professor at the University of Maryland and from 1993-95 served as director of economics at the United States International Trade Commission. Home
Hit the ground running, and cleaning By Daniel M. Ryan
Late Tuesday night, we saw the impossible realized. Donald Trump, facing at least as much bias as Barry Goldwater in 1964, won the election. The candidate that so many said would not win, won. He won against a media so hostile, they're now scrambling. Arthur Sulzberger Jr., the publisher of the in-trouble New York Times is so rattled that he sent out an apology letter (!) to subscribers who haven't already taken a hike. Others are scrambling to figure out why they were so wrong. From what I read, they've learned very little. The only ones who have an inkling are the Bernie Sanders supporters. The rest have only figured out that they're part of a machine that's floated up in the air and become a flying echo chamber. They're slowly beginning to figure out that they're part of The Cloud Minders. In a very real way, 2016 has been the year that the looked-down-upon Troglytes found their champion and won. Some of the pampered pets of the Obama years took to the Trump victory by rioting. Thankfully this is a blessing of the partisanized times the paid rioters tore up and harassed the citizens of blue cities. If you're ensconced in a red zone, you only saw them on Youtube. One of the weak points of the Conservative mind is complacency in victory. I have to confess that I watched my share of meltdowns. It is enjoyable to think of the freaked-out opposition as spoiled children or big babies, while not wondering if they're more like unruly teenagers who need to be grounded. Part and parcel of this complacency is the Conservative brand of magnanimity: going out of our way to reassure the defeated that their scary nightmares are only figments of their imaginations. As much as some of us like to quote Conan the Barbarian, we act quite predictably when we hear the lamentations of their women. This tendency of ours is so ingrained, it's always led to Conservative reform being muffled. There's another reason, which Milton and Rose Friedman wrote an entire book about back in 1983. Although it's now a period piece, the central lesson of The Tyranny of the Status Quo is still relevant: the uniform tendency in government [is] to reverse the declared policies of leaders whether left or right. In the first six to nine months following their election, Reagan, Thatcher and Mitterand too, initiated big changes. Soon, each was frustrated by the "Iron Triangle" which preserves the status quo. In the triangle's corners are the direct beneficiaries of laws, the bureaucrats who thrive on them, the politicians who seek votes The takeaway of the book is that the system of government returns to an equilibrium after the first six to nine months of a new Administration. (The above quote comes from the dust flap of the hardcover edition.) The Trump transition team seems to be aware of this new phenomenon. According to the Daily Caller, construction of The Wall is slated to start in March. That's well within the six-to-nine-month timeframe. Since Trump sees The Wall as his new Wollman Rink, it's a safe bet we'll see The Wall. In addition - an advantage due to him not being a conventional small-government Republican - he's going to benefit from active support in both the FBI and border-control bureaucracies. He's the boss they're going to love. So, in the areas of deportation and border control, the Trump Administration will have finessed the Iron Triangle. (It remains to be seen if there's enough residual patriotism in the Veterans' Administration for him to prevail there too.) President Trump will show us what it's possible for a President to do with a co-operative bureaucracy. Thankfully, he's businessman enough to know that the art of management definitely includes incentivizing and rewarding good performance. But sadly, the above exceptions will reinforce the rule. The Iron Triangle, though bent, will not be broken. He'll see this when he tries to implement his promise to repeal Obamacare. I'm sure you can guess many of the excuses: "too radical," "it'll encourage the wrong people", "businesses already count on it," and so on. It would be wise of Trump and the GOP to press forward and repeal it outright. There's a yuge trust gap between the Pubbies and the base: a simple bill "The Affordable Care Act is hereby repealed" will do a lot to narrow it. It would enable the Beltway crowd to return to the Heartland and say, "You see? We did get it done when we got the Presidency." I'm sure the Trump transition team will have a ready-to-go replacement by the time Mitch McConnell has to decide whether repairing tattered trust is worth invoking the nuclear option. There are two other crucial reforms needed, which I'm focussing on because they're the kind of low-level repair work that's easy to slough off or go easy on. The first is crucial to another Trump goal bringing back jobs and the second is crucial to limit the vote fraud we all know is there. Clean Up E-Verify Remember the botched Obamacare Website? One of the reasons why it was such a mess is that the programmers had to create an interoperability hub that harnessed a whole slew of incompatible record systems some of which didn't work all that very well. It's true that a lot of the blame for the botching belongs to the Obama Administration. But the important reason going forward is the creakiness of the underlying systems. There've been a lot of folks demanding that E-Verify be made mandatory. If this legislation is to be part of the Trump Plan, then it's very important to make sure that the underlying database is cleaned up. A long time ago, John Kenneth Galbraith quipped: "One of the uses of depression is the exposure of what auditors fail to find." Remember 2008-09? One of the problems that surfaced as a result of the real-estate collapse was the fact that the mortgage-title records were a godawful mess. Think about it: those records, the very foundation of all those fancy CDOs, were a shambles. In some cases, enough of a mess that the salvage squads had no idea what they were entitled to collect on. Americans look up to entrepreneurial and action-oriented people. This gives America a huge advantage. But it comes with downsides, like sometimes forgetting the importance of "cost centers." At least one small brokerage firm went down in the bear market of 1970s because its back-office records were a jumbled chaos. Imagine yourself as a managing partner of a firm that's gone bankrupt without you even knowing it. Given that record-keeping is unglamourous enough to overlook, it's a good mind-the-downside bet that the E-Verify records need a thorough and meticulous clean-up. Better to find the mistakes now than to find out the hard way should E-Verify be made mandatory. Clean Up The Voting Records Thanks to Project Veritas Action and a lot of public-spirited citizens, we've found out that voting fraud is all over the place. As with E-Verify abuse, voting injustices thrive in a swamp of shoddy records. The fact that Donald Trump and the republicans prevailed is not an excuse to let this slide: the opposite is true. Republican victories, both at the federal and state level, mean that it's more possible than ever to do something about this festering boil boiled over. Moreover, there are encouraging signs that some Dems are worried about the same problem. For one, this New York City Commissioner of the Board of Elections. Cleaning up the voting rolls and ensuring their integrity, despite what trash talk you've endured, is a bipartisan issue. It's well worth every Pubbie in office to push it hard. If necessary, it can be sugared by opining that one of the reasons why poor folks don't vote that much is because they're afraid that their names aren't in the registry. A thoroughgoing audit would include getting in touch with them and assuring them that they are listed as legal voters. Sharpen The Axe "Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe." Now that the Pubbies have a chance to finally tackle all those festering growths, Abraham Lincoln's wise words are more needed than ever. Gavin McInnes recently said that even in a cool job like his, the bulk of it entails reading spreadsheets and overseeing minutiae like making sure the connector cables work. Accordingly, a great reform like cracking down on voting fraud will be a great botch unless a lot of time and care is spent on sharpening the axe. By Drs Friedmans' iron-triangle rule, the Trump Administration has six to nine months to get it started and rolling. Happily, getting the records straight is something that bureaucracy can do without overturning it. Like better enforcement of the law and the borders, it's a policy that that's best effected by working with the bureaucracy corner of the iron triangle rather than banging on it. With this, President-Elect Trump's business talents will prove to be a real boon. Daniel M. Ryan, as Nxtblg, is shepherding the independently-run Open Audi Initiative Prediction Market Shadowing Project. He has stubbornly assumed all the responsibility and blame for the workings and outcome of the project. Home
"Third parties" in Canada a reassessment (Part Four) By Mark Wegierski
In the 2011 federal election, the NDP won 103 seats, thus becoming a "second party" the so-called Official Opposition. The Liberals were reduced to 34 seats, about the lowest number they have ever held in the federal Parliament. However, in the 2015 federal election, the Liberals came roaring back with a majority, and the NDP were reduced to 44 seats. In light of the 2015 federal election campaign, a partial reassessment of the role of the NDP in Canadian politics may be called for. They were certainly more "centrist-tending" in the 2015 federal election than the Liberals particularly under the leadership of Tom Mulcair who promised a balanced budget unlike Justin Trudeau, who said he was quite willing to run a deficit. While the NDP may have in earlier decades been the "ice-breaker" for left-liberalism and the so-called "progressive" agenda it is actually the Liberal Party (particularly today) that is carrying out that agenda to ever greater degrees. Nevertheless, one of the biggest illusions of Canadian politics is that the federal and provincial New Democratic Parties and the extra-parliamentary left-wing coalition groups that often work with the NDP -- are comparatively weak, and rarely able to significantly exercise power. Until the breakthrough federal election of 2011, when they won 103 seats (59 of them from Quebec), the NDP had held only about 25 to 30 seats (out of a total of about 300) in the successive federal Parliaments. In the 2015 federal election, they were reduced to 44 seats. Currently, they hold one provincial government (unexpectedly, Alberta). However, they have great influence on municipal politics, especially in Toronto, Vancouver, and Winnipeg. Until the federal election of 2011, the official NDP might have appeared to be a comparatively minor force in Canadian politics. There had also been some talk in the 1990s of the supposed triumph of free-market neoconservatism in Canada which would appear to make things more difficult for the NDP. The facts are that the NDP possesses an unusual degree of ideological strength and depth rarely seen in any of the other Canadian parties, and so has had more real influence, never holding the federal government, than, for example, the federal Progressive Conservatives. Though never holding the federal government, the NDP was able to effect such major, transformative changes in the Liberal and federal P.C. parties (especially in social and cultural areas) that it hardly needed to be in power. The NDP has counted on the support of tens of thousands of university and college professors, journalists, civil servants, dedicated social activists, and teachers all of whom wielded a far greater amount of influence on politics and social life, than the large number of more "average" people who supported the centre-right Reform Party in the 1990s, or the federal Progressive Conservatives in the 1980s and before. And, quite apart from the gradual percolation of their social and cultural ideas into Canadian society, the NDP has been able to enter into highly advantageous political collaborations with the Liberal Party, at critical junctures in Canadian politics. The NDP has often been able to put significant political pressure on the Liberal Party. They also significantly influenced the Progressive Conservatives in Ontario during the Bill Davis era (1971-1985). This has usually meant that the Liberals (or sometimes, P.C.'s) have largely carried out NDP policies. Until the 2011 election, the NDP had appeared to be in retreat, with the apparent triumph of free trade and fiscal or economic conservatism. Even with the NDP's breakthrough in 2011, the Conservatives were, after all, able to win a strong majority. However, it could be argued that the perception of a right-wing triumph in Canada in 2011-2015 is highly misleading. Indeed, the Conservatives were decisively swept away in the 2015 federal election, without having accomplished much. The facts are that social conservatism (focussing on upholding notions of traditional nation, family, and religion) is very weak in Canada. Most people embrace the latest variants of multiculturalism; high immigration; feminism; and gay rights. To a social conservative, the triumph of fiscal conservatism, is all-but-irrelevant when compared to the cultural, social, moral, spiritual, and religious crises of late modernity. Ironically, old-fashioned social democracy, such as that represented in Canada by the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (CCF) the much-different precursor to the NDP -- could be seen as largely socially-conservative. While ferociously fighting for the working class, and for social programs that benefited the broad Canadian majority, it largely supported traditional notions of nation, family, and religion. What has occurred since the 1960s, however, is the transformation of old-fashioned social democracy into left-liberalism. While becoming ever more conciliatory to capitalism and fiscal conservatism, it at the same time took increasingly hostile outlooks towards traditional notions of nation, family, and religion. Its claim to represent the working-class majority became less and less credible. The savants and elitists who represented the leadership of the New Democratic Party realized that they could exercise meaningful power within the structures of current-day capitalism. And the things they increasingly cared about was not the well-being of the working-class majority, but rather the trendy new issues of multiculturalism, feminism, and gay rights, which had been of comparatively little interest to traditional social democracy. Indeed, such cutting-edge theorists as Frantz Fanon raged against the traditional working class. Today, one sees the NDP wrapping itself in the cloak of compassion, decency, and concern for "average, ordinary people" when it could be argued that it has acted largely against the working majority of Canadians for over three decades. In those places where it has avoided the excesses of left-liberalism (for example, in Saskatchewan), its success has been largely congruent with the remnants of social conservatism. However, the typical impact of the NDP in Canada, when deployed in support of the excesses of left-liberalism, appears in its own way as damaging to society as the consumerism and globalization which it sometimes quite aptly criticizes. Regardless of the recent, partial return of fiscal or economic conservatism in Canada, the NDP had earlier been able to fundamentally transform the social and cultural ideas and policies of the Liberal Party and most of the P.C. Party (and thereby of most of the country) away from social conservatism. It could therefore be argued that its outlooks have triumphed in social and cultural matters. At the same time, it has partially continued the CCF traditions of fighting for a more generous welfare state whose universality is now being undermined not only by fiscal conservatism but ironically, also by the NDP-led social and cultural directions of promoting "designated groups" rather than the commonweal. It could be argued that the NDP has, in the last four to five decades, been Canada's most influential and idea-generating party. The history of the NDP in Canada on the left, and of the Reform Party on the right, may be of some interest to those who would wish to study whether it is possible that a relatively successful, "third party" movement could ever get underway in the United States and what its potential impact on the U.S. polity might be. Mark Wegierski is a Canadian writer and historical researcher. Home
White reporter contends darkskinned people can't control themselves By Michael R. Shannon
Samantha Sunne had an authentically gritty New York City experience during a recent visit. She "spent four hours curled in a ball, balancing on a narrow wooden benchtrying to avoid the freezing cinderblock walls and the cold cement floor, splattered with cigarette butts and rotten food." This is just the kind of firsthand experience writers used to crave, but Sunne is not too happy about her brush with the NYC justice system. Maybe it's because they refused her request for a glutenfree cell. Samantha doesn't contend she was innocent the Hillary defense her contention is the offense is guilty. Sunne writes in the Washington Post that in the wee hours she was riding the Atrain and propped her feet up on the seat in front of her. The next thing she knew it was Eric Garner all over again. Only Sunne was arrested by a woman, didn't resist the arrest and, except for exposure to secondhand tobacco products, she was none the worse for wear. But that's not how she sees it: "I became one more victim of nuisance laws,' regulations that criminalize small misbehaviors that don't hurt anyone." The left characterizes these ordinances as "nuisance laws" when the statutes only inconvenience lawbreakers. A better term would be "respect your neighbor" laws, but leftists are completely unwilling to make any contribution to public order if doing so has even the slightest influence on their personal preference at that particular moment. Instead Sunne takes a law designed to keep seats in the NY subway clean and ready for tired behinds and morphs it into yet another sinister plot to keep the black man down. She explains, "On its face, this might not seem like a big deal everyone wants clean subways and orderly cities. But criminalizing small acts can have major consequences for nonwhite and low-income people, who are disproportionately arrested and convicted for these infractions." How is Samantha's viewpoint regarding the "nonwhite" population's adherence to the law any different from that of the Klan? The Klan thinks "people of color" can't control their sexual urges and Sunne evidently believes minorities lack the selfcontrol necessary to resist the urge to break the law. It's just in their nature. If you ask me Sunne and her fellow traveler's mindset is the real bigotry. These laws aren't designed to inflict discrimination on blacks or browns; they are designed to establish a baseline for public behavior. Besides, even in the Post not everyone is in agreement that enduring a gritty nonchalance toward behavior norms is worth it because the resulting atmosphere makes visits to the big city so much more authentic for leftist tourists. Natalie De Vincenzi writes, "We need security cameras on all Metro cars[cameras] could hold accountable the teenagers who threw objects at me on the train." Now I'm sure Samantha would object and saying throwing objects, as opposed to throwing curses, is assault and not a nuisance. But that's the big problem with disorder. It has a tendency to escalate. Samantha's delicate feet on the seat are quite a bit different from say Michael Brown's. I'm sure Samantha would be happy to remove hers when the little old white lady asked, but I'm not sure grandma would even bother to ask Brown. Public order laws are designed to protect the elderly, the infirm, the young, the female and the wimpy, while restraining the unruly. Politely asking the impolite to behave puts a burden on people that most are too timid to assume. That's when the government acts. "Nuisance" laws aren't like Obamacare. Obamacare makes you buy health insurance or the government penalizes you. "Nuisance" laws don't require you to polish seats on the subway with anything other than your behind. Rather than acknowledging how much better city life has been since the implementation of the "Broken Windows" theory of policing, people like Sunne delight in attempting to reverse the major gains made in public safety over the past two decades, by attributing the progress to "flawed and unfair" police tactics. And by flawed I mean raciallybiased, for as patriotism is the last refuge of the scoundrel, racism is the first refuge for the leftist. What's more, the critics offer no alternatives for replacing police tactics that have saved lives and rescued communities. Instead these "journalists" are like Tom and Daisy Buchannan in The Great Gatsby, "careless people, Tom and Daisy they smashed up things and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast carelessness or whatever it was that kept them together, and let other people clean up the mess they had made." Michael R. Shannon is a public relations and advertising consultant with corporate, government and political experience around the globe. He is a dynamic and entertaining keynote speaker. He can be reached at mandate.mmpr (at) gmail.com. He is also the author of Conservative Christian's Guidebook for Living in Secular Times (Now with added humor!). Home
South Africa remained firmly in control after day three in Hobart, where Australia went to stumps still needing 120 runs to make South Africa bat again, with eight wickets in hand
Australia 85 and 2 for 121 (Khawaja 56*) trail South Africa 326 (De Kock 104, Bavuma 74, Hazlewood 6-89, Starc 3-79) by 120 runs
Scorecard and ball-by-ball details 85 and 2 for 121 (Khawaja 56*) trail326 (De Kock 104, Bavuma 74, Hazlewood 6-89, Starc 3-79) by 120 runs
On the first day, this Test was on some sort of stimulant. On the second day, it swallowed a sedative. And on the third day, it took a mood-stabiliser, as a degree normality resumed. There was neither the chaos of Saturday's 15 wickets, nor the dreariness of Sunday's wash-out, but rather something in between: seven wickets, a couple of rain delays, a Quinton de Kock century, and a fightback of sorts from Australia's batsmen. But still South Africa remained in control.
The situation at stumps was this: Australia had reached 2 for 121 in their second innings, with Usman Khawaja on 56 and Steven Smith on 18. David Warner had made 45 and Joe Burns a duck, and each would consider themselves unfortunate in their modes of dismissal. South Africa's fast men asked searching questions of Australia's top-order batsmen, who at last had a few answers. But they were still a long way from climbing out of the hole they dug on day one.
At the close of play Australia still needed 120 more runs to make South Africa bat again. That will be their first goal on day four. Only then can they consider building a target, and thus have any hope of salvaging a positive result from the Test. And although South Africa showed hints of frustration late on day three, as Vernon Philander convinced Faf du Plessis to chance a couple of fruitless reviews, there remained plenty in the pitch for Philander and his colleagues.
After South Africa had been dismissed for 326, with a lead of 241 runs, Australia's second innings started miserably as Burns fell for a duck in the first over when he tickled an attempted leg-glance off a wide Kyle Abbott delivery through to de Kock. It creates a precarious position for Burns, who was dropped in Sri Lanka, recalled for this Test to replace the injured Shaun Marsh, and will fly out of Hobart with 1 and 0 to his name.
Warner and Khawaja were watchful during a 79-run partnership, though they were often tested by Philander, Abbott and Kagiso Rabada. Balls seamed and swung, whizzed past edges or narrowly missed the stumps. But for 21 overs the pair survived, even when Warner's edge off Abbott flew towards third slip, where Dean Elgar ducked under the flying ball, perhaps having lost sight of it, to the astonishment of the rest of the cordon.
Abbott eventually had his man when Warner was tucked up by a shortish delivery at his ribs, and tried to work it behind square on the leg side. The ball bounced off Warner's hip and then ricocheted off his elbow and back into the stumps. But if Warner felt he was unlucky, Abbott had at least had reward for South Africa's plan to tuck Warner up in that region.
Khawaja, who was particularly strong through the cover and point regions, brought up his half-century from his 91st delivery and for the first time in the match, an Australian had reason to raise his bat. There had been a nervous moment early in Khawaja's innings when Warner pushed to point and took off for a single, and Khawaja gave up on making his ground as Temba Bavuma threw - and missed.
Earlier, Josh Hazlewood had completed the second six-wicket haul of his Test career as South Africa were bowled out for 326 shortly after lunch. De Kock and Bavuma were the key batsmen on the third day, compiling a 144-run sixth-wicket stand that added to Australia's frustration after the entire second day was lost to Hobart's rain.
South Africa started the morning five down and added a further 117 runs to their total in the first session for the loss only of de Kock. And even that took until the fourth-last over before lunch, when on 104 de Kock played a tired-looking drive against Hazlewood and missed a ball that moved back in, and was bowled.
Already de Kock had done more than enough damage. His fifth consecutive Test innings of fifty or more placed him in elite company: only Hashim Amla, Alan Melville, Hansie Cronje and Jacques Kallis (three times) among South Africans had achieved that feat before . He brought up his century from his 139th delivery with a single worked through square leg, and he was strong through the leg side right throughout his innings.
De Kock's poise during this series has been notable, as has Bavuma's patience and ability to halt any momentum Australia's bowlers might have thought they were getting. Here, Bavuma occupied the crease for 204 deliveries, more than the 197 balls that comprised Australia's entire first innings. Bavuma was calm at the crease and struck eight fours on his way to 74, before extra bounce and a leading edge to the off side belatedly gave Joe Mennie his maiden Test wicket.
Despite their contrasting batting styles, Temba Bavuma and Quinton de Kock showed the temperament to spend time in the middle, underlining a key difference between the two sides
South Africa got an early sighting of the future on the third day of the Hobart Test and the good news is that it appears bright. In Temba Bavuma and Quinton de Kock , they have a middle-order pair who balance caution and creativity, and at 26 and 23 years old respectively, could serve them for at least the next five years.
Both have roots in Johannesburg, the city of gold, where they each attended prestigious sporting schools - Bavuma was at St Davids, de Kock at King Edward VII - and played for the Lions. But it is here in Hobart, some might say the city of cold, where their Test tryst has truly blossomed. They put on 144 together, the highest sixth-wicket partnership by a visiting team at the Bellerive Oval, and stretched South Africa's lead to what may turn out to be a match-winning one.
Quinton de Kock on... His partnership with Bavuma: "We have grown up batting together. We understand each other well. We are good friends. We get along well too. It's nothing new to us. We were just going about our business and we respect the way each other bats.
Facing spin: Nathan [Lyon] is a quality bowler. It's just one or two shots that flew into my head that I played. Instinctive shots. He bowled really well to me. To be a spinner in Australia is not easy. You must understand he has done exceptionally well and you must respect that.
Dean Elgar's dropped catch: I just saw Dean duck. I didn't know whether to laugh or to do what at that point. He is a great slip fielder. He can make mistakes. He is going to take some blinders. He will take one or two key catches.
South Africa's chances of winning: We are fairly confident, but it's not going to be easy. They are batting really well. We're going to have to see what happens tomorrow. Usman has a good game plan and Steve Smith always does well. There's a lot of work ahead.
In a morning session that ground Australia's attack down, Bavuma and de Kock underlined the difference between the two sides. It's not just that South Africa's batsmen have the temperament to spend time in the middle, it's that their newer batsmen do. Australia's middle-order has not yet shown that temperament. It isn't the first time on this tour that Bavuma and de Kock have done this - in Perth, South Africa were 81 for 5 when the pair come together and added 71, which helped the visitors move to 242.
In Hobart, when Bavuma and de Kock came together on the first day, South Africa were already ahead. They had recovered from 76 for 4, when Bavuma had walked in to bat, to 132 for 5. Bavuma was on 28 off 51 balls, had survived a few early scares and earned the praise of former South Africa captain Graeme Smith. "I love Temba Bavuma, keep going big man," Smith tweeted.
If South Africa were to extend their advantage, Bavuma needed a partner and that's where de Kock was crucial. They complemented each other perfectly.
Bavuma has already shown an appetite for a fight. In Perth, he spent two hours and 17 minutes helping Faf du Plessis save South Africa from a first-innings collapse. He has an ability to absorb pressure.
De Kock has the capacity to transfer pressure back to the bowler. He is an energetic player who does not allow anyone to dictate his approach. Perhaps, he has a bit of the David Warner license to play his natural game, but he does not abuse that. He is inventive, risk-taking and quick-scoring.
With a stubborn batsman at one end and a busy one at the other, Australia spent the morning session under the pump. They were able to make things look more difficult for Bavuma, especially in Mitchell Starc's opening spell. He moved the ball away, probed the area outside off stump, trying to incite the drive, but Bavuma was not tempted. He is a compact player with a tight technique, who makes the opposition work for his wicket. Josh Hazlewood almost claimed it - he got a ball to kick up and Bavuma nearly played on while trying to fend it. He survived and got two off the next ball to reach his second fifty on this tour.
De Kock had begun the day 10 runs behind Bavuma, but caught up quickly. His fifty came off 70 balls, and then he surged past Bavuma. While Bavuma fought through the 50s, de Kock raced to 80. He created run-scoring opportunities by playing late, piercing gaps and maintained a consistent scoring rate throughout his innings. De Kock's first fifty had taken him 70 balls and the second took 69. "Instinctive shots" is how he described what he did on Monday.
Compare that to the 119 balls Bavuma faced for his fifty, and you have an idea of the difference between them. For a team, having two players of this calibre is ideal and the results are showing.
In this year, de Kock has scored 560 runs in six Tests at an average of 80.00, while Bavuma has accumulated 465 runs in seven Tests at 58.12. Hashim Amla - 611 runs at 55.54 - is the only South Africa batsman to have scored more runs in 2016.
Quinton de Kock and Temba Bavuma's 144-run stand was the highest for the sixth wicket by an overseas pair in Hobart Cricket Australia/Getty Images
Among de Kock's knocks was a maiden hundred in Centurion and five successive scores of fifty or more, including this century. His consistency has cemented him in the Test XI and comparisons with the best are mushrooming. The most notable one is with Adam Gilchrist, and now that de Kock has scored a second Test century, on Gilchrist's birthday and at the same ground where the former Australia wicketkeeper scored his maiden hundred, those could continue. He maintains it's not something he is trying to do.
"I don't try and be like him. That's just the way I play. I don't see myself being like him. I just see the ball, hit the ball. I have my own game plan. Some days, I can get off to a good start and keep a good momentum. Some days, I have to grind it out," de Kock said.
On other days, Bavuma does the grinding. He has been spoken of as a batsman similar to Gus Logie, partly because of his height, mostly because of his fight. By lunch, Bavuma had faced 201 deliveries. Australia's entire first innings lasted only 197.
Younited Italia, Nicola Manzari e il nuovo Coo, Luca Faccini e Head of Growth e Domenico Petraroli e General Counsel
INTERVIEW with Eberhard Rhein (Senior Advisor, European Policy Centre, Brussels)
EUBULLETIN: At the 2015 summit in the French capital, delegates from nearly 200 countries finalized the Paris Agreement, the worlds first global climate pact. During the present 22nd climate change summit or COP22 in Marrakesh, representatives from the signatory countries are working behind the scenes to come up with the rulebook for implementation of the Paris deal. Can you sum up what has been achieved in this process so far?
Eberhard Rhein: Marrakesh Conference is the first conference after the signature and the ratification of the Paris Agreement. The new agreement means an enormous progress compared to anything we have had over the past 30 years. And, increasingly, the world will have to wake up to the challenge of climate change because it is happening around us everywhere, whether in tiny Europe or in big Asia.
So, we will have to change our way of life, our way of thinking and, above all, our way of generating our energy. Within the next 30 years, our energy must become less and less composed of fossil forces. We must reduce our overall energy consumption, which must be much more effective in terms of housing, insulation of housing, it must be much more effective in terms of what we use as instruments for heating. What is now particularly important is the investment in housing and in buildings. Our buildings, especially in America and also in certain parts of Europe, are lousy; there is too much squander of energy because there are not even the double or triple windowpanes.
EUBULLETIN: Much of the world was eagerly awaiting results of US presidential election, but it was in Marrakech where the wait was particularly poignant. What can we expect now that the Republican nominee, who called climate change a hoax and reiterated that he would cancel last years Paris Agreement, prevailed over rival Hillary Clinton, a strong supporter of climate action?
Eberhard Rhein: Contrary to what has in the last few days been written in the media, there is no danger of the United States falling out of line, and even though Trump has boasted that the US will refute the Paris Agreement, they have signed and ratified it. Of course, any country can refute the agreement or withdraw from the agreement but it takes at least three years of time after the notification of the countrys withdrawal.
So, nothing can happen to the US participation in the Paris Agreement at least before 2019 and by then even in the US, the atmosphere will not be the same because I bet the US will realize that the climate change affects its agriculture, affects its way of life. So, therefore, I am pretty optimistic even though even within Europe, and for example in Germany, there is an in-fight between industry and labour on the one hand and the people who are convinced that we have to do something about the climate change. This is what I would say on the present stage of climate change and the related policy.
EUBULLETIN: The European Unions contribution to the fight against climate change consists of a range of measures adopted by the EU members it is called Europe 2020 Strategy. Has this package, which focuses on emissions cuts, renewables and energy efficiency, yielded any tangible results?
Eberhard Rhein: In solar and wind energy field, technological progress is very fast and the prices are falling so that in a few years, the solar energy produced in optimal locations will be cheaper than the conventional sources of energy. You can also see one example: in Germany, one of the biggest conventional electricity producers has just posted 6 billion euros loss because it had to write down all the fossil input and replace it by renewable energy. And they built four entirely new companies for that purpose that will replace the old one.
So, this is a change that is good and I hope countries like Poland and the Czech Republic that are still at the very beginning of that process will look at whats going on in the rest of Europe. But in Europe we will have to continue this fight and we will have, together with the Chinese, currently the biggest producer of solar energy panels, show the American that they cannot play a separate role.
EUBULLETIN: Do you agree with many experts who say that the current conference in Marrakesh plays probably a more important role in this process that the Paris summit?
Eberhard Rhein: I have just looked up where we now stand with the Marrakesh conference but it is still too early to say because the conference in Marrakesh will last until the end of the next week. The important things have not happened this week but they will happen in the coming week. It has just been going on for the first few days, which is just one of the big theatres. But also during the Marrakesh conference, people will see perhaps somewhat symbolically the worlds most important and largest concentrated solar power plant complex, which is located precisely in Morocco.
EUBULLETIN: Talking about this well-known major solar plant field in Morocco, have the North African countries themselves taken some substantive steps in moving toward using more renewable sources of energy?
Eberhard Rhein: They use solar and also small wind farms because they have a very long 2000-kilometer coast with ideal wind conditions. But I have mentioned the worlds largest solar power plant that is projected to gradually replace conventional energy generation in the country. So, Morocco is the only country in Northern Africa and in fact in the whole Africa that is leading the way in changing the whole power industry. Morocco is a leader in all of Africa.
President of the EU Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker, said on Friday (11 November), when speaking at a conference in Luxembourg, that Donald Trumps victory posed a danger for the ties between Europe and the United States. In his opinion, US President-Elect was ignorant of the EU and its actions. Mr Juncker suggested that The election of Trump poses the risk of upsetting intercontinental relations in their foundation and in their structure. Mr Junckers remarks generally reflected the shock among European leaders at the election of Mr Trump who had claimed, among other things, that there was no such thing as climate change, praised Russian President Putin and questioned the principle of collective defense in NATO.
Mr Trumps commitment to Western security is among Mr Junckers greatest worries who warned against the pernicious consequences of President-Elects statements. Mr Juncker said that Americans generally did not have much interest in Europe, recalling one of Mr Trumps statements in which he referred to Belgium as to the city. We will need to teach the President-Elect what Europe is and how it works, said Mr Juncker and brashly added that he thought we will waste two years before Trump tours the world he does not know.
EU ministers met on Sunday (13 November) during an emergency meeting discussing how to handle the relations with Washington over key issues. The EU has been working closely with the Obama administration on constructing economic pressure on the Kremlin over the Ukraine conflict and the Iran deal, forcing Tehran to scale back its nuclear program. EU diplomats admitted that the election of Mr Trump is a big unknown for the old continent, saying that for the first time in decades EU governments have very little idea what the next US Presidents foreign policy will look like. To that end, German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier stressed that Europe must prepare for a less predictable US foreign policy.
Announcement Coincides with World Diabetes Day
INDIANAPOLIS, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The European Foundation for the Study of Diabetes (EFSD) and Lilly Diabetes are partnering on a three-year, 6 million euro commitment designed to drive new research and education to better support people with diabetes, the organizations announced today. The Foundation is a not-for-profit organization governed by the executive committee of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD). Lilly Diabetes is a business within Indianapolis-based Eli Lilly and Company .
EFSD, EASD and Lilly have partnered for years in seeking out solutions for people with diabetes, and the agreement announced today is a comprehensive commitment among the organizations. This collaboration provides a wide range of programmes and a prize, covering and recognizing diabetes research and education, with a special focus on the support of young scientists and clinicians in Europe. The collaboration will include the following:
Albert Renold Prize: This annual prize for outstanding achievements in research on the islets of Langerhans will be awarded during the annual EASD conference.
Robert Turner Course: Focused on clinical research in diabetes, this course offers young researchers the opportunity to be trained by an outstanding team from Oxford University on the basic requirements for clinical research.
Open Research Fund: As part of this major effort to combat diabetes each year, the EFSD/Lilly European Diabetes Research Programme will support areas of basic or clinical diabetes research.
Fellowship Programme: This programme will encourage innovative research in the fields of diabetes and its complications, and promote excellence in medical education.
Scientists Training Course: This course will promote emerging talents in the field of diabetes research, and foster diabetes research throughout the world, offering a hands-on, practical approach.
Nearly 415 million people around the world have diabetes, including an estimated 60 million across Europe, according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).
"EFSD is delighted that the strong collaboration with Lilly continues to thoroughly explore all areas of diabetes research. Diabetes is one of the defining health problems of the 21st century, and, despite the great efforts being made, it still remains insufficiently understood," commented Professor Juleen Zierath, President of EASD/EFSD.
"Research for prevention, care and a cure is the only way to save lives and improve the well-being of the incredible number of people with diabetes in the world," said Professor Stefano Del Prato, chairman of EFSD. "EFSD supports the most dynamic research in diabetes in collaboration with industry and strives across the European Region to keep diabetes and research into this devastating chronic disease under continuous focus. The program just launched with the support of Lilly is another step forward to link science, research and education, and to attract younger investigators in a very competitive field."
"Our commitment to people with diabetes started more than 90 years ago when we partnered with the University of Toronto to deliver the first insulin to people with diabetes," said Jeremy Morgan, vice president of Lilly's international diabetes business. "And while there have been tremendous advancements in treatment options and awareness, gaps remain. Millions of people with diabetes are not treated adequately and, in some cases, are not even aware they have diabetes. We are looking forward to this new collaboration working hand-in-hand with EFSD to continue the important work dedicated to bridging these gaps."
"With this new collaboration, we aim to further strengthen the private-public collaboration in the research field and to make a contribution to top-quality education," said Robert Heine, M.D., Ph.D., Distinguished Lilly Scholar, Lilly Diabetes.
This enhanced commitment coincides with World Diabetes Day, which was created in 1991 by IDF and the World Health Organization in response to growing concerns about the escalating health threat posed by diabetes. World Diabetes Day became an official United Nations Day in 2006 with the passage of United Nation Resolution 61/225, and occurs annually on Nov. 14.
About EFSDThe European Foundation for the Study of Diabetes (EFSD) was created by the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) to provide funding in all areas of diabetes research across the entire European Region. The aims of EFSD are to encourage and support groundbreaking diabetes research and to promote the next generation of leading diabetes researchers. More information about EFSD can be found at: www.europeandiabetesfoundation.org [enlace]
About EASDThe European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) was founded in 1965 and is based in Duesseldorf, Germany. It is one of the largest networks for diabetologists worldwide with the mission to promote excellence in diabetes care through research and education. EASD membership is open to health care professionals, scientists and nurses as well as students from all over the world who are interested in the field of diabetes. More information about EASD can be found at: www.easd.org [http://www.easd.org/]
About Lilly DiabetesLilly has been a global leader in diabetes care since 1923, when we introduced the world's first commercial insulin. Today we are building upon this heritage by working to meet the diverse needs of people with diabetes and those who care for them. Through research and collaboration, a broad and growing product portfolio and a continued determination to provide real solutions--from medicines to support programs and more--we strive to make life better for all those affected by diabetes around the world. For more information, visit www.lillydiabetes.com [http://www.lillydiabetes.com/] or follow us on Twitter: @LillyDiabetes.
About Eli Lilly and Company Lilly is a global healthcare leader that unites caring with discovery to make life better for people around the world. We were founded more than a century ago by a man committed to creating high-quality medicines that meet real needs, and today we remain true to that mission in all our work. Across the globe, Lilly employees work to discover and bring life-changing medicines to those who need them, improve the understanding and management of disease, and give back to communities through philanthropy and volunteerism. To learn more about Lilly, please visit us at www.lilly.com [http://www.lilly.com/] and newsroom.lilly.com/social-channels [enlace].
Refer to: Simon Mueller; simon.mueller@easd.org;
+49 211 758 469 0; EASD
Jennifer Hoopingarner; jennifer.hoopingarner@lilly.com;
317-741-8811; Lilly Diabetes
Logo -- enlace [enlace]
Web site: http://www.lilly.com/
With Prime Minister Narendra Modi taking the entire nation by surprise on November 9 when he announced the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes, the first ones to encash on the decree were the mobile wallet companies. Within just a few minutes of the announcement, players such as Paytm, Freecharge, MobiKwik, Ola Money and others, came out with quirky social media posts to engage with their customers and urged them not to panic and instead go cashless. On the following day, full page ads in national dailies were also taken up these players, where they pledged their support to this policy and spoke about the ease of cashless transactions.
Aggressive advertising:
Paytm used Narendra Modis picture in their ad campaign and congratulated him for taking the boldest decision in the financial history of independent India. Using the hashtag Ab ATM nahin, #PaytmKaro the brand ran full page ads in mainline papers.
Delhi CM, Arvind Kejriwal took pot-shots at the brand through his tweet where he talks about it being the biggest beneficiary of PMs announcement. To which, the CEO of the company, Vijay Shekhar even responded.
Upasana Taku, co-founder, MobiKwik, said, I believe this is the best marketing campaign which India could have asked for both fintech and mobile wallet companies. Yes we are promoting it in a big way because it has never happened before that the government is promoting cashless payments. It is a very opportune moment for us and we have just launched our print campaign Khatam Karo ATM Shaytm. Switch to MobiKwik wallet for your daily spends, which we will run for some time.
While a lot of these brands are targeting the customers, PayU India comes to the rescue of small and medium businesses, who are also grappling with stress, post the sudden withdrawal of the above mentioned currencies from the market. The brand has launched two apps-PayUmoney Seller App and Sellfie, both aimed at enabling the merchants to accept payments digitally.
Increase in traffic, user base and merchant enquiries:
One of the major problems in this category has always been awareness, but after the PMs announcement, all the mobile wallet companies have seen a tremendous increase in traffic, in their number of downloads and the number of merchant enquiries have also seen a spurt.
Infact, Paytm saw an overwhelming 435 per cent increase in overall traffic as consumers increasingly took to using the Paytm wallets for their transactions. The company also registered a 200 per cent hike in number of app downloads and 250 per cent surge in number of overall transactions, all this within hours of the decision being made public.
Within 24 hours of this announcement Pay U Indias transactions increased to 85 per cent. Enquiries by merchants also shot up by 50 per cent. While the brands average daily transactions amount to 12 lakhs daily, they are anticipating the same to increase by 25 lakhs in the upcoming months.
Commenting on how this decision will impact the mobile wallets, Amrish Rau, CEO, PayU India, said, I certainly believe that the recent announcement by the PM to remove Rs 500 and 1000 notes will have a positive impact on the use of mobile wallets in India. The market is maturing today, people have access to smartphones and internet and we only expect the infrastructure to improve henceforth. So, from an industry point of view we certainly foresee an increase in the utilisation of mobile wallets and digital payments adoption in India."
FreeCharge reported a sharp 12X overnight jump in the average wallet balance on the following day of the announcement, as consumers loaded up their wallets.
MobiKwik registered 40 per cent growth in app downloads within 18 hours of the announcement of currency withdrawal. Additionally, user traffic and merchant queries went up by 200 per cent among its over 35 million users.
Another e-wallet service, Oxigen Services witnessed significant increase in the load money transactions by up to 40-45 per cent during the first half of the day following the announcement and the company expects to see a spike in the short term. Sunil Kulkarni, Deputy Managing Director from the company said, This situation is going to stabilise to a new normal which should be at least 40-45 per cent of the pre-announcement period. The average ticket size is also expected to jump by 50 per cent going forward. All this is because people will become more comfortable to adopt digital wallets for their cashless transactions.
Wallet on Delivery:
A lot of the e-commerce companies have been facing the heat of the recent announcement as Cash on Delivery (COD) accounts for the bulk of online shopping in India. Most of these companies have temporarily discontinued their COD Services. In order to tackle this, FreeCharge has launched Wallet on Delivery, so Snapdeal customers can pay using their FreeCharge wallet on the delivery of their goods. MobiKwik also announced via email that it will offer a MobiKwik wallet on delivery option for online sellers. Paytm even mentioned on Twitter that it is working with courier companies to enable Wallet on Delivery, also known as Paytm on Delivery services.
Will the companies benefit in the long run or is their celebration short lived? Experts speak:
Commenting on this, Hitesh Gossain, CEO, Onspon.com, said, Yes, the e-wallet companies are expected to benefit the most from this decision. This can already be seen from their marketing and advertisement pattern. This demonetisation decision was taken to curb the problem of unaccounted cash in the market and move India towards a 'cashless' economy. But definitely, there will be a major jump in the number of users using theses e-wallets, especially for the next month or so. They also provide an alternative payment mode to people who do not have bank accounts. With these e-wallets now integrated with all major e-commerce companies, this is a good opportunity for the e-wallets to make the users used to their payment method and make them repeated users. The long-term impact of this decision remains uncertain, however, the signs are encouraging for such companies.
Rohan Agrawal, Senior Consultant at RedSeer Consulting, said, Demonetisation is aimed at curbing black money and has brought liquidity crunch currently. This has led to sudden increase in usage of cash-less options (credit cards, debit cards, net-banking, mobile wallets etc.). Combine this with the infrastructure requirements and promotional offers, mobile wallets shall witness high trial and usage, which was already evident in the first two days. In the short term, the top nine markets will have higher usage of mobile wallets owing to liquidity crunch. In the long term, customer acquisition and engagement during the short term will help in overcoming the inertia and drive the awareness levels. It will definitely drive the adoption rates for the mobile wallets in the long term.
According to Saurabh Uboweja, Brand expert, Founder & CEO, Brands of Desire, the biggest beneficiary of this announcement is not only the mobile wallets, but also the organised retailers like Big Bazaar, who have been actively promoting electronic transfers. People who will suffer in the short term are the unorganised sector, like the local kiranas. But they will also join hands with e-wallets eventually. So today, where majority of the transaction happens in cash, I think by 2020, almost 50-60 per cent of transaction would be electronic, he said.
But in a country, where 90 per cent of the transaction happens in cash and where half of the population dont even have a bank account, how easy it is to change the behaviour of the consumers to shift to digital payments?
Gossain added, This demonetisation decision is not against the usage of cash but against the unaccounted cash in the economy. However, ultimately and by default India is moving towards a cashless economy. Though, definitely there would be a change in the transaction pattern atleast in the short run, with inadequate liquid cash in the economy. However, in the long run, the transaction pattern would differ across income sectors. Majority of the lower sector of the economy do not have a bank account or do not have much knowledge about alternative electronic/digital payment methods. Therefore, cash would still play an important role for them. If we look at the upper and middle class, definitely, the usage of electronic and digital transactions would increase in the near future. But to say, there would be a dramatic shift in the transaction pattern is a little premature.
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In an interview with exchange4media, Richard Ingleton, COO, Kantar and Preeti Reddy, CEO, Kantar Insights, South Asia, talk about the sheer diversity of Indian consumers posing as a challenge to market research businesses and the global importance that India commands when it comes to the business. Excerpts:
How popular has the use of big data become in the Indian context and which industries are driving that trend?
Preeti Reddy: Big Data is todays absolute buzzword. Most of our clients are using it in one way or the other. Largely what they have been doing is using their own data which includes transactional data, sales data etc. Lately clients have started talking to us about using primary data and other multiple sources of data with own data, which is something the big data is all about. What we are finding is that the usage of big data for strategy and for bringing better options for consumers is higher among the service businesses like telecom, finance and retail. Our FMCG clients have been a little slower in coming to it. Moreover, India is a very large backend market and provides backend services like advanced analytics on big data to markets like the US and the UK. So, the use of big data is common among the non FMCG clients, the FMCG clients are just getting there.
Richard Ingleton: What you see happening, almost everywhere, is clients struggling with the volume of data. The concept of big data is nice but applying that data to specific business problems is still something which we have not yet codified. In marketing, I think people are still struggling to bring multiple data sources to predict brand strategy, they are still struggling to find out which part of the consumer journey they can best influence. In many cases they are struggling to use it to calculate price points. Some businesses, which are big data businesses, are generally good at it from a functional marketing perspective. However, its still hard to see codified, consistent solutions anywhere in the world.
Does the sheer diversity of Indian consumers pose as a challenge to market research businesses? Also, what are some critical areas in which market research firms have evolved over the years?
Richard Ingleton: We are increasingly trying to move towards helping the marketers to make decisions in the moment. The ability to understand a consumers context and to send a message which is relevant to a particular moment is the trick that many marketers are pursuing. When you look at India, given the diversity of this place, having one marketing method alone isnt going to work and it often is challenging to understand consumers with such limited approach.
As we know, market research firms are chiefly concerned about what people buy and why they buy. Historically, the only way to do market research has been through surveys and there are many different ways to do that. Now, I can know not just why people buy what they buy, particularly the why factor, simply because there are a lot of things I can do now, like mapping consumption patterns, using smart technology and many other things. The way the market research is conducted is evolving fast and we have dedicated teams to figure out how we can keep moving forward. What I have observed is that in less mature markets or the non-western markets, people dont want to spend too much time on strategising. They want to know what to sell, where and at what price now and are not spending time on strategy like the western markets would, but with time that may change soon. Moreover, when the world is changing so fast and it is almost too complicated to understand sometimes. Earlier, the path to purchase was relatively simpler, but now the situation is entirely different. So, for marketers, the consumer behaviour complexity has become bigger than ever before and so we have to move faster to understand the insights that we offer to clients.
Preeti Reddy: What Richard said applies to India, especially when it comes to need for speed and need for greater experimentation. This has shrunk the strategy time for clients. A client today is saying that I would prefer 80% accuracy faster than to have 100% accuracy slower. So, those are the kind of trade-offs that we are making in the interest of speed for clients. It is also important to use the data that we already have than to generate new data every time. So, the ability and skill to look at multiple data points and connect them is the other change that we are witnessing in the case of what we offer to our clients.
How enduring are the insights that you offer and what kind of lifecycle do such insights have?
Richard Ingleton: If you look at the market research data closely, it is the context which changes and that gives rise to new data possibilities. So, understanding how I can go after those universal desires in a context makes sense for my consumers and those are the insights that we share with our clients.
Preeti Reddy: Even clients now can predict how long certain equilibrium is going to last and they have competition coming from all sides. So, while there are some enduring principles or fundamentals, however, there is also need that the tactic of that strategy is much faster and for that to happen we have to create a lot of agility.
Has digital complicated the data gathering game?
Richard Ingleton: It has got more complicated for sure. When you add a new variable to any equation it gets more complicated. We have added e-commerce and social media to the things that we need to understand the consumer, so it has got more complicated. At the same time, it doesnt mean that we cant solve it. Many information industries are evolving at the moment in the way that they have become more complex and the fact is that we have got to deal with it.
Preeti Reddy: I keep saying that this new empowered digital consumer is like friends with benefits. At one level they are far more empowered, while on the other hand they are giving you information voluntarily and we have to develop the ability to make sense of all the information that they are giving us. Earlier, we had to give incentives to people for their opinion and here are these digitally empowered people who are voluntarily doing so. Now, we are working towards harnessing and leveraging that information in a holistic way.
How would you explain the future trends in market research?
Richard Ingleton: The fact that we are in the business of understanding consumers will never change. For me there are two things that will change, one is about not just bringing together these disparate data sources in a coherent way, but also being able to analyse them. The second one is to what extent can we automate everything--from data collection to insights delivery. As the machines get more intelligent, you can expect to do more in the automated way. So, these are the two big changes that I foresee for my industry.
Preeti Reddy: The other trend that we will see in the coming time will be related to the kind of people that we will need in the research industry. Some of the old divides of the research business like quantitative, qualitative and analysis, all of that may actually disappear. When you will have data so freely available and data becomes a commodity, the value that we add to a client has to be the meaning that you extract from that data and the ability to do that will become extremely important.
What are Kantars plans for India?
Richard Ingleton: India is one of our nine focus countries and there are many reasons why it is so. One is the quality of people that we can develop in India. The second is the economic opportunity. But most importantly, it is the social opportunity by improving the life of the people through the public work that we do, like the sanitation schemes or the schemes related to infant mortality. We are also witnessing the emergence of local giants in the developing markets which is a good development and India is witnessing it along with markets like China, Indonesia and Mexico.
Preeti Reddy: Talking about India, you can expect greater use of technology in the way that we work. As Kantar in India, we are the largest when it comes to the research business with all the big brands that we have here. Some of the changes that we need to bring to the industry, Kantar in India will drive it, because we have the scale the will and the wherewithal to do that.
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Again - you being able to work depends on your husband's visa not some agreement. What visa will he be moving to the US on?
Uscis.gov is the official site and gives details about Employment Authorization Document aka EAD for spouses.
Relying on a corporation to 'take things into account' can work or not.
IRS.gov gives info about federal taxes, Google State New York and City New York. We have some posters who live in the city. Maybe they will chime in. Human resources should be able to give you details.
Your perks are taxable items. You receive income in non- monetary formats that is taxable. Bev can shed more light into this as taxes are her forte.
Have items such as flights, moving household, temporary housing, separation and return to Italy, .... been discussed? Google if NY City falls under 'right to work'.
Request to read the fine print of the health insurance package. This is nothing unusual. What is covered, what are coming-pays and deductibles, what network of physicians is available? Is it medical only or medical/dental/vision?
Has it been specified what kind of housing will be provided or at what dollar equivalent? My first question would be is washer/dryer in the apartment? If your husband needs to drive to work is parking available?
I know nothing about the Italian retirement system. Do your research on putting it on hold, ... whatever has to be done.
Contact the school district and ask what exact documents you need from the Italian school and if you need translations/certified translations.
Hello,
Whilst the UK is still part of the EU your wife is considered the 'non-eu spouse of a EEA citizen' as such she has the right to travel with you within the EU and the only thing you would need is proof that:
1) you're married and
2) you are travelling together or that she intends to meet you there.
the UK and Cyprus are both non-schengen countries so ideally and if you had time, you should apply for a cyprus provisa/visa. Thsi will streamline things for you.. however, it is your right to travel with just the marriage ceritficate.
Check on europa(dot)eu and you will see examples. its a very quick google but im not allowed to post links sorry.
Albert1970 said: First of all: Thanks Steve!
Next question will be; where to live.
Being single, I like some activity around me and I dont like to commute long and I have no license (yet, still have to find out how get lessons in Dubai).
The company is in the Al Karama area so any suggestions are welcome. Click to expand...
Get your license in the Netherlands before coming out here. Once you have a valid Dutch license you can easily convert it into a UAE license.The driving lessons out here are pretty piss poor, apparently. The agencies fail everyone as many times as possible to make money off of them.But if your office is near a metro stop (Karama has one) you can find a place to live near a metro and take the metro to work. Many people don't drive in Dubai at all, taking taxis or metro instead. Uber and Careem (private taxi service) are also very popular.You have a healthy housing budget so for a place near a metro stop and not far from Karama I would look at the BurJuman apartments (upscale, above an upscale mall, one stop away), or any of the towers along Sheikh Zayed Road by the WTC, Emirates Towers and Financial Centre metro stations.Downtown is one more stop away but the only towers within reasonable walking distance of the metro is the Burj Lofts. IT's a much more "upscale" if that appeals to you.Come to Dubai and look around. You'll soon know what works for you.
This is one of those things where you might do well to plan with Brexit in mind. At the moment, banks in the EU are not allowed to charge "extra" for bank transfers coming from or going to an EU country. They can, however, make a charge for changing currencies. I can at the moment, make a bank transfer payment directly into a UK account without any additional charges (other than for the exchange of euros to sterling or vice versa).Once the UK Brexits (or whatever it's going to do), the banks can add their own fees for a transfer into or out of a non-EU country. An exchange service is often able to withdraw the funds from one bank in one country, and deposit the "translated" amount into a bank in another country so that it appears that both transfers are locally based, thus avoiding the bank transfer fees.For the moment, though, you need to ask the agency that is paying your pension what provisions (if any) they have for paying pensions directly into a "foreign" account. Don't know about the UK, but for example, the US Social Security pension can be paid directly from the US Consulate in Paris. Because of the amount they handle each month for retirees here in France, they tend to get the best exchange rates available. If there is no provision for direct deposit here in France, you may want to take a look at this site (it's a comparison site for lots of FX services - each with their own pluses and minuses): Best Way to Send Money Abroad to UK, Europe, USA, Australia, Singapore, UAE & More Cheers,Bev
A strong and growing job market in New Zealand is creating more opportunities for employment and careers, according to new information released by the Government.New Zealand is popular with international skilled workers looking to emigrate and growing numbers are choosing to do so and the data from the latest Building Skilled and Safe Workplaces report is encouraging. The New Zealand economy has added 35,000 more jobs in the last quarter alone. We now have the second highest employment rate in the entire OECD. This gives us a great platform to work with employers and other stakeholders to lift employment for people of all ages to levels we havent seen before, said Steven Joyce, education and employment minister.Although the programme is aimed at people already in New Zealand it is a sign that jobs are out there, according to recruitment experts.It comes at a time when more young people from around the world are going to study in New Zealand and the international education industry is now worth $4.28 billion, up from $2.85 billion in 2014, according to the latest figures from the education department.The number of international students increased in all regions between 2012 and 2015 with Auckland seeing a rise of 55%, Canterbury a 71% rise and Waikato numbers grew by 45%. They are spending more on tuition fees and living costs with the top source countries being China, India, Korea and Japan.This demonstrates the growing importance of international education to New Zealand. While economic value is obviously important, international education brings much wider benefits to our institutions, our communities and our country. International students add a rich diversity to our learning institutions, and help to connect New Zealand to the world, said Joyce.New Zealand is a trading nation. The relationships and networks developed with people from around the world through international education play a vital role in New Zealands business relationships with other countries. The relationships being formed now will help to secure New Zealands trading, investment and education links and contribute greatly to our future prosperity, he explained.The growing demand for New Zealands world-class education shows that our small country is seen as a big player in the education industry. We must continue to develop and sustain our international education sector and add to our reputation as an innovative, prosperous and welcoming nation, added Joyce.The Government is currently consulting with industry representatives on a revised International Education Strategy for New Zealand. The new strategy will seek to underpin the quality of the student experience and to realise the full social, cultural and economic value for New Zealand.Joyce pointed out that it means the Governments key growth goals for international education is well on its way to being met with a target of $5 billion by 2025.
Chattanooga entrepreneur John L. Kerns announced his candidacy for City Council in District 9.
Mr. Kerns said, For the last few months Ive received overwhelming encouragement from our neighbors in District 9 and across Chattanooga. Im pleased to answer their call, and offer new energy to voters in our district, as well as leadership that listens on City Council.
Mr. Kerns said that his campaign will focus on four main issues: crime reduction, closing Chattanoogas opportunity gap, creating the Smartest City in the South, and ensuring that Chattanooga remains the Scenic City for generations to come.
This is a critical point in the history of our city. Chattanooga has done some great things in the last 20 years, but that success hasnt touched every neighborhood, or benefited every taxpayer, like it should, he said.
The campaign will hold a kick-off celebration Thursday, at 5:30 p.m. at the Archway Building at 2523 Glass St. Refreshments will be provided, and everyone is invited.
Mr. Kerns, who resides in Highland Park with his wife Sara, chose Chattanooga in 2009 and is associated with Preferred Care at Home, which now has 75 employees and was a finalist for the Chattanooga Hamilton County Small Business of the Year Award in 2015. He is active in the Highland Park Neighborhood Association, a graduate of Leadership Chattanooga, and vice chairman of the board of directions for Welcome Home of Chattanooga.
Monday, November 14, 2016
This guest blog post was written by Sarah Rickerd, founder and owner of Carry Your Heart Jewelry and Gifts.
How do you say a good goodbye when you never said hello?
On April 23, 2013, I held my daughter Lena Grace, stillborn at seven months gestation, for twenty minutes, creating a sacred space for us amidst the beeps and blips of hospital monitors that would hold the entirety of our relationship together in this world.
With the two year-old son I now have at home, twenty minutes is nothing. Twenty minutes is an episode of Daniel Tiger that buys me enough time to get the dishes in the dishwasher. Its the time required for me to negotiate that yes, you do in fact have to wear pants to church.
To wrap the whole of a relationship into twenty minutes strains my understanding of the word relationship. And yet, its a reality that I share with the hundreds of thousands of families who experience pregnancy loss every year.
As I joined the club no parent wants to be a part of, I learned that one in four confirmed pregnancies ends in a loss even today, in our age of modern medicine. Ten times as many babies are lost to stillbirth as are lost to SIDS, and fewer than half of the 26,000 families affected by stillbirth are given an explanation for the deaths of their children.
I learned these statistics not just through my own reading and support group participation, but through my first professional position within the funeral industry the one I took four months after the loss of my daughter.
I guess you could say I leaned into death (Sheryl Sandberg wouldve been proud). To be able to relate to the funeral directors who were my companys customers, I studied the process of burial and cremation the exact process Id had to choose for my daughter four months earlier. I learned how firms support families after their losses in order to develop the aftercare materials wed offer on our funeral home websites, taking comfort myself from the content I wrote for others.
The members of the peer support group I was a part of were understandably skeptical of my all-in approach to grief and healing; not, as I believed, because they didnt think Id be up to the task, but because, as I learned, many of them had had extremely negative experiences with funeral homes.
Take the story below from my friend Sharon, which I recently had the chance to share at NFDA 2016:
When I gave birth to Gabriel, his heart had stopped just a few hours prior. He was full term and looked like a perfect baby who happened to have his eyes closed. The nurses gave him a bath and wrapped him up in a blanket and put a hat over his gorgeous curls. As painful as those moments were, I held our son, wrapped in his blanket and wearing his blue hat. I was really terrified of death, and dead bodies, and I was too scared to kiss him. I worked up the courage to kiss him on his head, but only on his hat. Since I never saw him naked, my memory of him is tied to his only clothes- that blanket and hat. The very blanket and hat that the funeral director disposed of, without asking us.
As I continue my funeral industry work now through my company Carry Your Heart Im regularly gutted by stories like these; stories of careless, negligent treatment by the very funeral professionals we entrust to guide parents through the unimaginable reality of losing a child.
Im in the process of turning my NFDA session material into a continuing education course, and my company is working tirelessly to develop grief support materials for families facing pregnancy loss that well distribute online and through funeral homes.
Ive said it more than once before: the last thing I wanted was a calling. And yet, here I am, doing the work I believe must be done, fueled by my daughters memory. I named my company Carry Your Heart because thats where her memory lives. As long as Im alive, I carry her memory in my heart and everything I do in this world is a reflection not just on me, but on her as well.
Nearly three and a half years out from my daughters loss, my grief is curiosity. The jagged edges of our loss have dulled into wondering who the person whose absence the wound of grief represents would have been.
Would she be a bossy big sister to a second child who would have come in my sons place? Would she have his messy hair and stubborn streak?
Whoever she would have been, I hope shed be proud of me.
Sarah Rickerd is the owner of Carry Your Heart Jewelry and Gifts. Learn more at www.CarryYourHeart.net.
If you have a fancy educational background, the tempting thing is to go into a glamorous field, full of smart people with equally good educations. Maybe investment banking, consulting or a stint with a hedge fund?
I tried all that.
Because Im a slow learner, I realized late that theres got to be a better way. It took me awhile to figure out the following: Dirty jobs might be a smarter bet for making money.
Thomas Stanley, author of best-selling personal-finance book The Millionaire Next Door, certainly thinks so. He encouraged entrepreneurs to take on dirty jobs. Stanley tells the story of junkyard owner Richard with his $700,000 annual income and $10 million net worth as the quintessential model to follow.
Seek businesses that might have little to no competition, Stanley urges, because they lack the prestige that attracts the brightest minds.
My friend Bryant did just that.
Bryants Ivy League education initially took him to book publishing in Brooklyn, which while not as lucrative as other high-status jobs is definitely full of bright shiny minds. Then a buddy lured him down to the Eagle Ford Shale in South Texas in 2007. Hes been knee-deep in the oil field services industry ever since and just started a side business cleaning rail cars, called CRU Railcar services.
Rail-car cleaning
He and his boss got inspired because they move sand into the oil field in South Texas via rail, and they found existing services to periodically clean their train cars expensive, slow and unreliable.
Heres some background on cleaning rail cars: Rail cars that move the products of the oil and gas business have to be cleaned before carrying anything else and/or being put into storage. If the rail car previously hauled diesel but will move heavy sour crude in the future, then a professional cleaner has to completely scour the inside of the car. If the car moved propane before but will be retired into a rail yard for storage, the whole thing has to be cleaned as well.
This is a dirty job. Its also dangerous, scary and complicated.
During my field trip to his offices 30 minutes south of my house, Bryant and his team of five other roughnecks all wore the company uniform: The left-pocket nametags stitched on nylon with reflective safety stripes give them a look somewhere between old Astros jerseys and bowling team shirts. Its the kind of thing his book-publishing hipsters buddies might wear in Williamsburg, Brooklyn but in a totally ironic way.
Theres no irony to Bryants pret-a-porter style. This job kills.
Two cleaners in Illinois died after succumbing to fumes in 2014, while another two in Nebraska were blown up in 2015. Materials left inside the cars are highly explosive. Two brothers in San Antonio died in June after inhaling fumes inside a tank car they were cleaning.
A Houston Chronicle investigative report in 2014 found the tank-cleaning business to be highly risky, with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the main regulatory agency, unable to keep track of cleaning companies or their safety standards.
In reading reports of accidents on the job, a haphazard approach to risk appears common.
Attention to detail
Bryants attention to detail when it comes to risk, by contrast, impressed the heck out of me.
Bryant walked me through the process hes created for cleaning fuel cars.
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First, they assume the air inside a fuel car is totally incompatible with human life. All cleaners breathe only from oxygen tanks, like scuba divers underwater. As a backup, they carry five-minute emergency tanks in the event of a failure.
A spotter stands over a hole in the top of the train car at all times, watching for any signs of trouble. The spotter stands next to a crane for lifting an unconscious body, while an electronic monitor for air toxicity runs at all times. In addition to the spotter, a rescue person stands by, with his own oxygen supply at the ready, in case of trouble. That covers the air problem.
Then theres the explosion problem. To hack at dried petroleum that might cake the fuel tank floor, the cleaners use a spark-proof shovel. Shovels are just one method.
Train cars arrive in a wide variety of dirty states, having carried any number of oil and gas products. In tests, Bryants team has found that only trial and error can determine what cleans the cars best. Sometimes a splash of diesel loosens the gunk. Sometimes a high-pressure water hose that would cut off your limbs works best. Sometimes, he reports, the simple household cleaner Dawn is magically effective.
Seek dirty jobs
Many things will determine the success or failure of your new business venture: the cost of materials, your ability to make the big sale at the right time, the difficulty of finding investment capital, your skill in hiring and retaining key people, and, of course the sign of the zodiac under which you were born.
But one of the things that could save you as you screw up everything early in your business venture is the quality of your competition. In a sense, this is just another restatement of the old bear and the two hunters joke. You dont necessarily have to outrun the bear, you just have to outrun your competition. If you can choose a field where the competition is thin, youve got a good chance of thriving.
Bryants rail-car cleaning business is dirty, dangerous, claustrophobic and complicated. I would not do it for anything in the world. I also have a hunch theyre going to clean up on the competition and make a lot of money.
Michael Taylor is a former Goldman Sachs bond salesman and writes the finance blog Bankers-Anonymous.com.
Twitter: @BankerAnonymous
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As the list price of a pair of EpiPen devices soared to more than $600 this summer, people scurried to find alternatives, occasionally throwing caution to the wind. Some bought cheap syringes filled with epinephrine, the medication in EpiPens; others made homemade auto-injectors, following the steps in a popular YouTube video.
Few people, though, have turned to the one true alternative known by the brand name Adrenaclick.
The Adrenaclick auto-injector checks all the necessary boxes: The government declared it safe; national pharmacies sell it; and its list price is a third less than the EpiPens. But selling a drug takes far more than that.
The story of Adrenaclick is paved with blunders and missed chances, leaving it a largely unknown bit player with a single-digit share of the market. Six companies in succession have owned Adrenaclick since an earlier version became available 13 years ago, but few invested significant money in marketing. It has been sold under multiple names, and at one point it was taken off the market for more than a year. Recently, its owner, Impax Laboratories, has struggled to keep up with scant demand, resulting in sporadic shortages.
During the same period, Mylan, the maker of EpiPens and the target of the publics furor over the price increases, has done almost exactly the opposite turning what was once considered a throwaway product into a prodigious moneymaker through branding and shrewd market expansion.
EpiPen is like Kleenex its ubiquitous, said Brian Chapman, a consultant for ZS Associates, a pharmaceutical marketing firm. What theyve done with that brand has been amazing.
Impax has been moving to make Adrenaclick a competitive alternative. The company is striving to expand access to Adrenaclick by upgrading the outdated production line, improving the distribution system and lobbying states to make it easier for patients to get the product from pharmacists.
Doctors say they have struggled to keep track of the product, and its availability, over the years. The product now called Adrenaclick got its start in 2003 as the Twinject, an EpiPen alternative that was designed to deliver two doses of epinephrine in the event that users needed a second one. But the Twinject was confusing and difficult to use; and after a series of design changes, it evolved into the Adrenaclick. The Food and Drug Administration approved those changes in 2009.
By then, however, Mylan had begun its push to expand sales of the EpiPen. Executives there saw untapped potential in the product soon after taking ownership of it in 2007.
EpiPen, which was approved by the FDA in 1987, already had good name recognition, but the market was relatively small. By 2007, it had annual sales of only about $200 million. Since then, Mylan has succeeded in turning the EpiPen into a $1-billion-a-year product by raising prices and expanding the market through advertising, lobbying and giveaways to schools, practices that have all come under scrutiny as anger about its high price has grown.
As the EpiPen became a blockbuster product, the Adrenaclick struggled to keep up, capturing only about 1 percent or 2 percent of the market.
In 2013, after a period when the Adrenaclick was off the market, its owner at the time, Amedra Pharmaceuticals, made the tactical decision to stop competing directly with the EpiPen and instead created an identical, but generic, version of the Adrenaclick.
That move allowed insurance companies to begin covering the Adrenaclick as a generic product, lowering the out-of-pocket costs to most patients to $10 to $20. The list price for a pair of generic Adrenaclick pens, which uninsured customers may have to pay, is about $400, compared with more than $600 for a pair of EpiPens. Coupons for both products can lower the price further.
Impax inherited the Adrenaclick, along with its generic version, in 2015 as part of a larger acquisition. Rather than investing in a costly marketing campaign, the company has opted to lobby states to make the generic Adrenaclick more widely available.
Douglas Boothe, president of the generics division at Impax, says the company sees an opportunity in a little-known provision that allows pharmacists in 21 states to fill a prescription for an EpiPen with the generic version of Adrenaclick, even though the two are not identical. He acknowledges, however, that many pharmacists are not aware his product exists, which is a major hurdle.
The company also said it was spending tens of millions of dollars to upgrade its assembly line to meet heightened demand for the product after the EpiPen price increases. It now holds 7 percent of the market, Boothe said.
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Certainly the news has been a great form of awareness, he said. However, he added, weve been very prudent with how weve distributed the product.
Boothe rejected arguments that the Adrenaclicks chances for success were limited.
This is not a flash in the pan for Impax, he said. We think this is a sustainable opportunity for us, and were making investments accordingly.
Still, the Adrenaclick has such a low profile that even people who consider themselves knowledgeable consumers said they were surprised to learn recently of its existence.
Barbara Hollinger, a 57-year-old retiree and quilter in Northern Virginia, carried an EpiPen for 20 years because she is allergic to yellow jacket stings. But she said she became irate about the cost of EpiPens, which her insurance was forcing her to pay for out-of-pocket.
Theres got to be a better way, she remembered thinking. So when I asked my doctor if there was a generic, she said, Yeah, but nobody ever prescribes it.
After a few false starts at her local CVS, her quest was a success. With her insurance, the product cost her $5. CVS now says the product is available in all of its pharmacies nationwide.
Victory is mine! Hollinger declared in an exuberant post on Facebook a few days later. The post has since been shared nearly 160,000 times.
The thud of cartridges hitting their roof and skidding off the edges at night led to mornings of outdoor cartridge collecting. Theyd sweep around their house to pick up the debris ghosts of the war raging around them.
Nan Maos family was in Burma, living in the middle of what is often described as one of the longest-running civil wars. They fled to Malaysia as undocumented immigrants in 2006.
We honestly feared for our lives, Mao said.
In 2010, the United Nations identified Mao as a refugee and shipped her to the United States, her husband by her side and her 7-month-old baby cradled in her arms. That same year, MacArthur High Schools Steve Davidson started the MacTEACH program with eight student volunteers.
Now, Nans baby is 6 years old. His name is Sai, and he along with at least 300 other low-income children and families, mostly Latino or Burmese, are helped by more than 150 MacTEACH students. Davidson, an English teacher at the North East ISD school, has received numerous honors since founding the club: runner-up for Texas Teacher of the Year last year and this years Outstanding Teaching of the Humanities Award one of only 12 teachers to receive it in the state.
About 60 high school students, children and adults pack into MacArthur Highs library on Tuesday and Thursday nights for MacTEACHs Neighbor to Neighbor program. On Tuesdays, students teach young children violin for the first hour. After that, the sliding notes of the violin are replaced with the giggles and whispers of children getting homework help. Meanwhile in the far corner, two high school students teach English to about five Burmese adults.
My expectation and my hope is that this is the last year well be able to use the library. My hope is well grow too big for it, said Davidson, situated at one of the study tables one recent Tuesday evening. Hes had to purchase six more violins for students and said the number of people looking for their help continues to grow through word of mouth.
The Burmese refugee involvement in the club started when Dorothy Grayson, a volunteer at Northeast Baptist Church, realized that the educational support she gave the refugees in the summer simply wasnt enough. There was one young girl in particular whose struggles represented the last straw for Grayson.
She looked at me one day and she just broke down crying. I was like Auggh! Grayson said, grasping her head in exclamation. It was so, so sad. So I said, I just need some more help here.
She had heard of Davidsons program so she gave him a call. And he did what hes been doing for years, what he considers his life motto: he said yes.
This is what I live for. I get up every day for this. If I get a divorce, its going to be because of MacTEACH, said Davidson. The club is entirely volunteer-based.
The tools to succeed
How are you, teacher? said Mao, 38, to Davidson while placing a hand on Graysons shoulder. She had just arrived to pick up Sai from tutoring. Grayson took her hand and held it in her own.
We call him Crazy Sai, Davidson said. Hes crazy, we love him so much.
Grayson said that the English as a second language program through the district can be competitive and also structured in a way that makes it difficult for parents who work long days to schedule appointments. The Neighbor to Neighbor program at MacTEACH is a way around that, she said.
Mao was part of the original group that was tutored at the church by the students, before they moved to the library for more space.
When she first moved to San Antonio, Mao was lost and lonely. She was constantly afraid with no English and little knowledge of American customs, getting around the city for basic activities such as going grocery shopping was a living nightmare.
Before I didnt know these good people, I was scared and I cried in my bed at night, Mao said.
It was a fellow Burmese who told her about Grayson, and through her, about MacTEACH. The programs tutoring lessons gave her English language skills and a sense of community, she said. And armed with those tools, she began to emerge.
You know when you go to the jungle and you dont know which way you have to go? And suddenly you find out the way, how do you feel? You feel very happy, she said.
Davidson smiled at her, quiet.
When I hear stories like that, its like how could I even think of leaving? he said later.
Student fulfillment
For the last half hour on Tuesday, Sai had finished with his homework and got to play a game of Sorry! with his 17-year-old tutor, Alisa Vorpahl.
Theyre the helpers to everybody, Sai said of his tutors, fidgeting in his seat and shooting looks at the board game he was eager to get back to. Davidson said when he asked Sai what his favorite subject in school was last year, he named one of his tutors instead of an actual class.
The MacTEACH students volunteerism spans from the local to the global. The club has a MacTEACH Mini-Mall, which donates goods to low-income or at-risk MacArthur High students and also holds fundraisers for children in Honduras, Uganda and soon, South Sudan. They also tutor elementary students before school and struggling high schoolers during lunch.
Of all the hard times Im going through now, a lot of times I ask myself, and my mom asks me, Why are you even doing this? Youre not getting anything from it, youre not getting anything for college. said Mia Self, 17, MacTeachs student director. And I sit here and look at all these kids and I see their smiles and I see everything that were doing, and I cant imagine doing anything different.
sfosterfrau@express-news.net
10/24/2022
Believers Baptist Church will hold its annual Old Fashioned Fall Festival this Saturday, from 12-3 p.m. All are invited. The church is out in the country in Catoosa County. The address ... more
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Two Fort Hood soldiers were among four people killed in a bombing last weekend at Bagram Air Base that capped days of violence targeting Western facilities around Afghanistan.
Staff Sgt. John W. Perry, 30, of Stockton, California, and Pfc. Tyler R. Iubelt, 20, of Tamaroa, Illinois, served with Fort Hoods 1st Sustainment Brigade, which deployed to Afghanistan late last summer along with the divisions headquarters.
Two contractors also died, and 16 U.S. troops and one Polish soldier were wounded in the Bagram blast by a suicide bomber with an explosive vest, the Pentagon said. The Taliban claimed responsibility. NBC News said the incident occurred as people were gathering for a Veterans Day fun run.
I want to express my sincere condolences to the families of the fallen, and I want to reassure the loved ones of those injured that they are getting the best possible care, Defense Secretary Ash Carter said in a statement. For those who carried out this attack, my message is simple. We will not be deterred in our mission to protect our homeland and help Afghanistan secure its own future.
Days earlier, six people were killed and more than 100 were wounded at the German Consulate in Mazar-i-Sharif, the Associated Press reported.
Perry and Iubelt were among more than 1,500 Fort Hood soldiers in Afghanistan and 3,200 worldwide, post spokesman Chris Haug said.
Perry joined the Army in 2008 and was a 1st Cav test, measurement and diagnostic equipment maintenance support specialist who had been at Bagram two months or so. He was on his second deployment to Afghanistan, having served there from August 2010 to July 2011.
Iubelt joined the Army last year and was a 1st Cav motor transport operator. He was on his first deployment, arriving in Afghanistan in September.
So far this year, 13 American troops have died in Afghanistan.
KERRVILLE Hoping to avoid a lawsuit like one unfolding in Austin, Kerr County Judge Tom Pollard wants county commissioners Monday to reconsider their refusal to allow a freethinker group to display a banner outside the courthouse in December.
We owe it to the taxpayers not to fritter away their money on a lost cause, said Pollard, an attorney, asserting case law supports Kerrville Freethoughts bid to display its placard on the grounds where a nativity scene is erected every holiday season by local Christians.
We couldnt win it if it went to court, which it would, Pollard said.
The banner purports to celebrate the Bills of Rights and Winter Solstice, but many Christians see it as mocking their faith.
It depicts Benjamin Franklin, the Statute of Liberty, Thomas Jefferson and George Washington gazing on the Bill of Rights in a faux nativity style. Illuminating the characters is a sun a round seal overhead that says Freethought Secular Government.
Happy Winter Solstice, it said, in part, Let us also honor the birth of our Bill of Rights, which reminds us there can be no freedom OF religion without freedom FROM religion in government.
It was provided to the local group by the Freedom From Religion Foundation, a national organization that is suing state leaders over the removal of a similar display from the state Capitol last December.
Everyone in the community deserves an equal opportunity to share and express their beliefs, said Sam Grover, an attorney with the Wisconsin-based group. Kerrville Freethought is simply asking to place their own display on equal terms with the religious display already allowed on county property.
But that request is likely to face opposition Monday, judging by the cheers from roughly 200 spectators over the 5-0 vote by commissioners and Pollard on Sept. 26 against hosting the banner.
If you let anyone trample on a holiday that we celebrate as our true president and king, Jesus Christ, his birthday, you are going to take away all the morality of distinction, and you will destroy this nation that stands for God, resident Daniel Thompson told commissioners then.
The emotional reaction echoes sentiments heard last December regarding a similar display, featuring figurines, that was set up in the Capitol rotunda in Austin where a nativity scene also has been exhibited.
The foundation had secured permission from the State Preservation Board to display its exhibit from Dec. 18-23 but Gov. Greg Abbott spurred its early removal, asserting it ran afoul of regulations that say Capitol exhibits should promote a public purpose, such as public health, education, safety, morals, general welfare and security.
Subjecting an image held sacred by millions of Texans to the foundations tasteless sarcasm does nothing to promote morals and the general welfare, Abbott said in a Dec. 22, 2015 letter to John Sneed, head of the preservation board.
To the contrary, the foundations spiteful message is intentionally designed to belittle and offend, which undermines rather than promotes any public purpose a display promoting the bill of rights might otherwise have had, Abbott wrote.
The foundation said the display was intended to educate the public and celebrate the 224th anniversary of the ratification of the Bill of Rights, along with celebrating the Dec. 22 solstice and educating people about the religious and nonreligious diversity within the state.
Its federal lawsuit, filed Feb. 22, accuses Abbott and Sneed of unconstitutional censorship, viewpoint discrimination and lack of due process, and asks U.S. District Judge Sam Sparks to enjoin them from excluding the display in the future, and to award the plaintiff nominal damages plus attorney fees.
Attorney General Ken Paxton, in defense pleadings, asserted, The question presented is whether FFRF has a constitutional right to demand state support for its effort to mock Christians and said Capitol exhibits are properly evaluated as government speech, not private speech.
If the court does deem the display to be private speech, Paxton argues the Capitol is a limited public forum where a government entity may impose restrictions on speech so long as those restrictions are reasonable and viewpoint neutral. Refusing to allow the banner to be displayed serves the states legitimate interest in not associating itself with speech that demeans a number of its citizens, he said.
Back in Kerr County, Pollard agreed to revisit the issue after Grover, the foundation lawyer, told him the county risked legal liability over denying Kerrville Freethought equal access to the courthouse grounds.
David Whitsett, the Kerrville Freethought representative who appeared before commissioners seven weeks ago, expressed optimism that the banner would be approved Monday.
He blamed the opposition to it on the misplaced belief that it attacked Christianity. It is not intended to be mocking or disrespectful, said Whitsett, who also is a foundation member.
zeke@express-news.net
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Mayor Ivy Taylor on Sunday outlined several accomplishments during her first term, and described her vision for San Antonio as she announced her bid for re-election.
Before Taylor took the stage at CAST Tech High School on the Fox Tech campus downtown, she won praises from supporters, including former Secretary of State Hope Andrade and Councilman Joe Krier, both Republicans.
Brian Dillard, an East Side resident whose wife used to work for Taylor at City Hall, said hes known the mayor for years and lauded her for a progressive mindset, and her ability to dig into policy. Taylor is an urban planner by trade and a former city employee.
Most importantly, Ivy wants for all San Antonio what she wants for the East Side and thats for every San Antonian to get ahead, he said.
Krier, who has been one of the mayors staunchest allies, called Taylor the best mayor in the U.S., and said shes been a leader who focuses on back to basics projects and who dealt the death blow to the controversial streetcar project a few years ago.
He often cites Taylors work on convincing the federal government to fund a new federal courthouse here, along with her push to ensure Google Fiber made good on plans to build a super-fast network in San Antonio.
Perhaps most importantly, when folks like me were ready to give up on getting a contract with our police union she went behind the scenes and she got that deal done, Krier said.
In her speech, Taylor said one of her proudest accomplishments has been working with Bexar County, local industry leaders and the Alamo Colleges to invest in high-quality workforce development. Her push for city funding nearly nudged out community safety-net social services in this years budget, but city officials were able to pull together money to support workforce development and not cut social services.
Thats the heart of my vision for our city to do whats within the power of city government to prepare our people for good-paying jobs that will allow them to stay here, raise families here, and retire here, she said. To ensure that employers have the skilled workers they need to bring to bring jobs or add jobs right here. We also must see that our most vulnerable residents and neighborhoods are protected from the downsides of growth.
Taylor said her vision for San Antonio is expansive and stretches from North to South and East to West.
It encompasses one San Antonio, she said.
Taylor has been mayor since she was appointed to the position in 2014, when then-Mayor Julian Castro left to become the U.S. housing secretary. After telling her council colleagues that she didn't intend to seek the office in the 2015 election, she reversed course and ran an insurgent campaign against several well-known and well-funded politicians.
Taylor and former state Sen. Leticia Van de Putte, D-San Antonio, emerged from the general election for a head-to-head runoff.
Van de Putte, who is now business partners with Andrade, said earlier this year that the voters got it right when selecting Taylor over her.
Taylor is entering the 2017 election cycle with a significant war chest. In July, she reported in campaign-finance documents having nearly $200,000 on hand.
Though no one else has officially entered the race, there's been persistent speculation that Taylor may face at least one challenger, if not two, from the council ranks. Both councilmen Ron Nirenberg and Rey Saldana have often been rumored to be mulling over whether to challenge Taylor.
Because all 10 council seats and the mayor are on the same biennial ballot, a council member cannot keep his seat and run for the higher office.
Besides the mayoral and council races, local voters will go to the polls on May 6 to decide whether to approve an $850 million bond program, the largest in city history.
jbaugh@express-news.net
Twitter: @jbaugh
Authorities in the Mexican state of Coahuila have secured significant prison sentences for two men they say were involved in a 2011 massacre carried out near the Texas border by corrupt police and members of the Zetas drug cartel.
Details of whats been called the Allende Massacre, named after a town near the Rio Grande, have trickled out in U.S. court cases, including the trial last summer in San Antonio of a Zetas middle manager. By some counts, hundreds of people were forcibly taken and murdered, and their bodies were destroyed as the Zetas wiped out anyone connected to a group of traffickers who were cooperating with the U.S. government.
On Saturday, Jose Angel Herrera, the assistant attorney general for disappeared persons, announced that a judge had ordered German El Canelo Zaragoza Sanchez to spend 80 years in prison and Fernando El Panone Hernandez Reyes to spend 75 years in prison on charges of aggravated kidnapping.
In a report earlier this year, the state said it had identified 23 people who were kidnapped and killed over two days in March 2011 in Allende and that authorities had detained nine suspects. Investigators have identified 14 people responsible, seven of them municipal police officers and the other seven members of the Zetas, Herrera said Saturday. Sanchez and Hernandez are the first suspects to be punished in Mexico for their part in the massacre.
The state is committed to guaranteeing peace and tranquillity, Herrera said in his statement.
The announcement was an effort by the administration of Gov. Ruben Moreira to show steps are being taken to punish those responsible for the mass disappearance. The killings happened months before Moreira took office, but the state has been subject to harsh criticism, in part because so little information has been released about the massacre.
Many of the details about the killings emerged during a series of money laundering and drug trafficking trials of Zetas associates in Texas, culminating in the July trial of Marciano Millan Vazquez in San Antonio. Millan, who was the regional leader for the Zetas in Piedras Negras, across the Rio Grande from Eagle Pass, was convicted of drug conspiracy and killing while engaged in drug trafficking, among other charges. He faces up to life in prison when hes sentenced in January.
During the trial, other traffickers testified that Millan was present as Zetas operatives rounded up family members and associates of former smugglers who were cooperating with the U.S. government. One trafficker, Adolfo Efren Tavira, testified that he saw as many as 40 people gunned down at a compound in Piedras Negras on the orders of Zetas leader Miguel El 40 Trevino Morales, who was arrested and jailed in Mexico.
When a San Antonio Express-News reporter and photographer visited Allende last year, abandoned and heavily damaged buildings sat untouched, mementos of the massacre. Ana Maria Sandoval, a resident of Allende, told journalists that in 2011 a gangster named El Canelo she didnt know his real name ruled the town with an iron fist. Sandoval said El Canelo was responsible for the kidnapping of two of her sons, one of whom never returned.
Staff Writer Guillermo Contreras contributed to this report.
A group calling itself San Antonio Stands with Standing Rock will stage its fourth protest this week against Dallas-based Energy Transfer Partners, the company building a $3.8 billion pipeline over nearly 1,200 miles. The route goes under the Missouri River, across four states and on land sacred to the Standing Rock Sioux.
The Dakota Access Pipeline will carry fracked crude oil that proponents say will reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil, create thousands of jobs and be safer than transporting it in trucks or by rail.
The San Antonio group, led mostly by college students, some of them Native Americans, is one of many surfacing across the country, galvanized by images coming from North Dakota, where police, company-hired security and National Guardsmen have clashed with protesters, who call themselves water protectors.
Think rubber bullets and pepper spray. Think fires and rock-throwing. Think dogs with bloodied snouts.
If the San Antonio group manages to get all its supporters downtown at 3 p.m. Tuesday, its numbers may grow beyond the 50 that attended the last action.
Theyre propelled by several issues.
As young environmentalists, theyd rather the United States move away from its dependence on fossil fuels altogether, not just its dependence on foreign oil. Theyd rather see the country move to alternative forms of cleaner energy. A pipeline 1,300 miles away matters, they say.
Theyre driven, too, by the violation of treaties the United States signed with tribes more than a century ago. Theyve become students of the Fort Laramie Treaty of 1851 that involves Standing Rock.
And they want the nation to address long-standing Native American grievances. Boundaries on reservations have been pushed back over time, they say, and promises broken.
Their movement isnt just about the Dakota Access Pipeline. Its about the cumulative impact of centuries of disregard for native peoples.
Theyve formed a coalition with other millennial-led groups in El Paso, Dallas, Houston, Austin and areas of New Mexico. They call themselves College Students of Texas Mobilizing for Standing Rock, and in early January they plan to travel to North Dakota.
Each group will raise funds to charter buses, and from Dallas, they plan to caravan together to join the protests on the ground.
Daryn Ocean-Sun Rinterra, a Northwest Vista College student with Navajo and Squamish roots; and Sawyer Jolly, a UTSA senior whos not Native American, are leaders of the loosely organized group wholl meet in front of the Bank of America building downtown.
Theyll carry signs that say Water is Life and #NoDAPL, the hashtag that has connected protesters to other activists and supporters across the country and other parts of the world.
The students were galvanized, in particular, by a video by Democracy Now! journalist Amy Goodman that went viral and subsequently aired on mainstream news networks.
Rinterra said most of the groups interactions with the public so far havent been what he has expected. Hes prepared for questions about water and environmental degradation. He has braced for pushback on the struggle for indigenous rights.
Instead, he has been taken aback by people expressing surprise that Native Americans are still here, he said, as if theyre extinct.
Its not an uncommon misconception. Native American protests have a long way to march before theyll be recognized or understood.
During the groups last protest, for example, a driver from a mail and package delivery company shouted, Black lives dont matter at them, Rinterra said.
Theyll gather Tuesday on Convent Street in downtown San Antonio to try spread and clarify their message again.
WASHINGTON President-elect Donald Trump appeared to soften some of his hardest-line campaign positions on immigration on Sunday, but he also restated his pledge to roll back abortion rights and used Twitter to lash out at his critics, leaving open the possibility that he would continue using social media in the Oval Office and radically change the way presidents speak to Americans.
In his first prime-time television interview since his upset victory Tuesday, Trump repeated his promise to name a Supreme Court justice who opposed abortion rights and would help overturn the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that recognized them, returning the issue to the states.
Asked where that would leave women seeking abortions, Trump said on the CBS program 60 Minutes, Well, theyll perhaps have to go theyll have to go to another state.
On immigration, he said the wall that he has been promising to build on the nations southern border might end up being a fence in places. But he said his priority was to deport 2 million to 3 million immigrants he characterized as dangerous or as having criminal records, a change from his original position that he would deport all of the estimated 11 million unauthorized immigrants in the country. President Barack Obama has deported more than 2 million unauthorized immigrants during his time in office.
Trump said that unauthorized immigrants who are not criminals are terrific people, and that he would decide how to handle them after the border is secure. The House speaker, Paul Ryan of Wisconsin, echoed the president-elect, saying on Sunday that there would be no deportation force, something Trump had promised to create early in his campaign.
Thats not what were focused on, Ryan said on CNNs State of the Union.
Trump also said he considered the Supreme Court decision last year that validated same-sex marriages as settled, and that he was fine with that. He endorsed popular aspects of President Barack Obamas health insurance law, including a provision that requires coverage of people with pre-existing medical conditions and one that allows young people to remain on their parents plans until the age of 26.
But even as he appeared to inch toward the political center, Trump used a series of postings on Twitter to argue that the New York Times coverage of him has been BAD and very poor and highly inaccurate. He falsely stated that the Times had issued an apology to readers, an apparent reference to a letter to readers from Times publisher, Arthur Sulzberger Jr., and its executive editor, Dean Baquet. The letter noted the unpredictable nature of the election and said the Times aimed to rededicate itself to the fundamental mission of Times journalism.
In the letter, The Times posed a series of what it called inevitable questions, including, Did Donald Trumps sheer unconventionality lead us and other news outlets to underestimate his support among American voters?
Trump also claimed that the newspaper had been losing thousands of subscribers over its campaign coverage. In a Twitter message in reply to Trump, the New York Times Co. said it had seen a surge in new subscriptions since the election four times the pre-election rate.
Were proud of our election coverage & we will continue to hold power to account, the company said.
Trump, in another Twitter post, said The Times had falsely reported that he believed additional nations should acquire nuclear arms.
However, in an interview in March with The Times, Trump, asked about the North Korean threat to its neighbors, said he thought the United States allies might need their own nuclear deterrent.
If Japan had that nuclear threat, Im not sure that would be a bad thing for us, he said. Later, he added, The bottom line is, I think that frankly, as long as North Koreas there, I think that Japan having a capability is something that maybe is going to happen whether we like it or not.
His posts on Twitter were a striking public display from a man who, after winning the election, had worked to project an air of seriousness and self-discipline, first in a victory speech early Wednesday and then in an Oval Office meeting the next day with Obama, whom he called a good man for whom he had great respect.
But by Thursday evening, Trump was using Twitter to complain about demonstrations against his victory, saying they were being mounted by professional protesters, incited by the media, and branding them as very unfair!
The social media sniping unparalleled in the history of presidential communication suggested Trump plans to bring his confrontational style of speaking to Americans to the White House, working to undercut news outlets that do not comport with his views, silence his critics and elevate his own standing.
On Sunday, he selected Stephen K. Bannon, the executive chairman of Breitbart News, a site known for its nationalist, racially charged and conspiracy-laden coverage, to be his chief strategist and senior counselor.
It was only one indication of the extraordinary nature of the president-elects tactics and those of his inner circle.
In the 60 Minutes interview, Trump suggested he would not hold to the long-standing post-Watergate tradition of presidents refraining from interfering in FBI criminal matters, hinting that he would quiz the director, James B. Comey, about his handling of the investigation into Hillary Clintons private email server before deciding whether to dismiss him.
Im not sure, Trump said when asked if he would seek Comeys resignation. I would have to see he may have had very good reasons for doing what he did.
In an interview on Friday with The Wall Street Journal, Trump did not rule out prosecuting Clinton.
On Sunday, his campaign manager, Kellyanne Conway, warned that Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nev., the minority leader, could face legal action for having said that Trumps election had emboldened the forces of hate and bigotry in America.
Trump has said he is proud of how he has used social media to create his own version of events and communicate it to his followers. He suggested in the 60 Minutes interview that he is reluctant to surrender that platform when he takes the oath of office in January.
Im not saying I love it, but it does get the word out, Trump said of Twitter during the interview, adding that his millions of followers on various social media sites had given him such power that it helped him win the election.
When you give me a bad story, or when you give me an inaccurate story, Trump added, I have a method of fighting back. He said, however, that he would be very restrained in his Twitter posts should he continue to make them as president.
Trump is a highly public scorekeeper of his own accolades and accomplishments, and his elevation to the highest office in the land has not changed his instinct to crow about the smallest details. During the interview, Trump boasted that since his election, he had built up his social media following by tens of thousands of people. Im picking up now I think I picked up yesterday 100,000 people, Trump said.
The interview, which also featured Trumps wife, Melania, and adult children, showed a side of the president-elect that he did not display during the campaign a man awed and somewhat intimidated by the enormity of the office to which he had just laid claim.
Ive done a lot of big things, Ive never done anything like this, Trump said. It is it is so big, it is so its so enormous, its so amazing.
Trump said he had been inaccurately portrayed as a little bit of a wild man during the campaign, and he promised that he would be able to tamp down some of his more heated rhetoric as president. But he suggested that he would still use such tactics to galvanize his supporters, just as he did during his bid for the White House.
Sometimes you need a certain rhetoric to get people motivated, he said. I dont want to be just a little nice monotone character.
Well, we told the world who we are. Now, we can only hope that Donald Trump isnt who he revealed himself to be. That its all been an act.
Anger won. Anxiety won. But lets not fool ourselves; sexism, racism and xenophobia were rewarded. And Hillary Clinton turned out to be more politically flawed than the polls indicated.
Yes, much of that was helped along by 11th hour meddling by the FBI on the matter of emails followed by what amounted to a too-late oops but mostly due to nearly 25 nonstop years of vilification that made every transgression seem like a new Watergate, though none really was.
Politically, these flaws were real enough. In a fact-free, pants-on-fire lying zone, perception reigns.
But it was mostly a deep miasma of angst and hunger for change that propelled Donald Trump into the presidency. An equally deep layer of angst now envelops all those voters who witnessed what was clearly a campaign that traded on sexism, racism and xenophobia. And that leads to an inescapable conclusion.
That is who we are as a nation. Correction. In the initial count, Clinton appears to have narrowly won the popular vote. So it is what nearly half of us believe who we are. They will give the characteristics different names not racism, but law and order; not xenophobia, but making America great again by scapegoating those people; not sexism, just boys will be patriarchal boys.
Here is what weve told the world. Were OK with a president who brags about sexual conquest, whether the approaches are welcome or not.
We are OK with a president who knows next to nothing of policy, global or domestic. Who admires a certain Russian strongman, whose hacking has also been rewarded. Look for more.
We are OK with a president who said he would jail his political opponent and hinted that there were Second Amendment solutions to her very existence.
Global warming? A hoax, of course, foisted on us by the Chinese.
That is what we the American voters have just told an incredulous world, which was prepped a bit by the identical anti-immigrant fervor sweeping much of Western Europe. Think of it as Brexit, American style.
And all that soul-searching predicted including by me for Republicans? Well, it should happen anyway because Trump just staged a coup, but my fear is that, in Trump, the party will have found a winning formula involving hucksterism that will be replicated until the last angry person calms down. This will not be pretty for minorities and women. But payback for those Republican leaders who will have been viewed as only lukewarm in their support for our new Supreme Leader will not be pretty, either. So there still might be intraparty warfare.
Democrats will be playing the what-if game. What if Bernie Sanders had been the nominee? What if it was anyone except Clinton, a candidate whose unfavorability ratings were only slightly below Trumps? And what if Clinton had actually chosen Julian Castro as a running mate? She won by just 5 percent in Tim Kaines Virginia.
I note that Trump won heavily Latino Texas barely in double digits, 10 percent. And Latinos apparently made a difference in Nevada, Colorado and New Mexico, all of which Clinton won. California is already solidly blue. That leaves Arizona, which Trump won also by single digits, 4.3 percent. This is a harbinger for the Southwest. What looks like a win today might not look so stylish in the future.
But here is the biggest takeaway from this election. Post-racial? Not even close. All those divisions we thought we had grown out of ... we simply havent.
Despondent? Dont be if, after your vote, you can look yourself in the mirror.
o.ricardo.pimentel@express-news.net
Twitter: @oricardopimente
Correction: An earlier version contained a tweet attributed to former New York Mayor Rudy Guiliani, in which he urged voters to turn out to thwart Hispanic and black voters. It was a fake. He did not post any such tweet.
CHI Memorial Medical Group announces that Susan Fisher, M.D. has relocated her practice, previously inside CHI Memorial Convenient Care - Cleveland, to CHI Memorial Primary Care Associates Cleveland. With a specialty in internal medicine, Dr. Fisher provides primary care, diabetic care, disease prevention and wellness maintenance. She welcomes new patients.
This new office is another opportunity for us to help create a healthier community, says Glyn Hughes, president, Mountain Management. Dr. Fisher offers a personal approach to care that will help guide you through your health journey.
CHI Memorial Primary Care Associates - Cleveland is located at 3780 Ocoee Place NW, Cleveland, TN 37312. Appointments are available Monday Thursday from 8:30 a.m. 5 p.m. For more information, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Fisher, call (423) 472-2273.
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. With a swirl, sniff and a sip, Denise Gardner, Penn States enologist, can discern almost all there is to know about a particular variety of wine. Though shes trained to pick up on even the most subtle notes of vanilla or cedar in a chardonnay or merlot, Gardners no snob: She says her favorite kind of wine is the one in her glass.
As the Universitys resident enologist a person who studies the science of wine and winemaking its her job to help Pennsylvania wineries and winemakers perfect their grape-to-glass blends.
I spend my days educating local industry members about wine styles, how to incorporate sensory analysis into their processes and to identify problems and opportunities in their winery operations, said Gardner, who worked in France and California before joining Penn State Extension. I am trained in the chemistry and microbiology of wine, so if a winery has a question and cant find an answer, Im usually one of their first points of contact.
Penn State Extension is an educational network that gives community members and businesses access to a broad range of agriculture-related resources and expertise. As part of this mission, Gardner and her viticulture colleagues in the College of Agricultural Sciences use a variety of technology for researching and testing wine in campus labs and for teaching winemaking to students in the Universitys food science program. They also connect with industry members in 67 Pennsylvania counties via educational workshops and their popular Wines and Grapes U. blog.
As a popular destination for winemakers and wine enthusiasts, Pennsylvania is the nations fifth largest producer of grapes with more than 14,000 acres dedicated to growing the fruit. According to the Pennsylvania Winery Association, the wine industry contributes $1.9 billion annually to Pennsylvanias economy and brings more than a million tourists to the states roughly 250 wineries.
Since high school when she first learned about a pest that nearly decimated Europes wine industry in the 1800s Gardner has been passionate about helping winemakers navigate the complexity of the winemaking process.
Winemaking is an art and a science. Each seasons batch is different, and the work that goes into creating the flavors you want varies based not only on the type of grape, but the climate, weather, soil, pests and disease that particular year, Gardner said. The process is still very hands on and traditional in the sense that decisions have to be made on the fly, and years of experience, knowledge and palate count for so much. You hold on to the vintage years that are the greatest, and then others you do the best you can to make a more typical style.
Once a year, each of Pennsylvanias (mostly boutique-sized) wineries start the process by deciding when to harvest their grapes, usually in September or October. After being picked, the fruit is crushed within 24 to 48 hours before being placed in fermentation tanks where alcohol is derived from the grapes sugar. Next, the wine is placed in oak barrels or steel tanks to be clarified: a process in which tannins, dead yeast cells, and proteins are extracted through fining and filtration. To age, the wine goes back into oak barrels (to develop a smooth, round flavor) or steel tanks (for fruitier whites) before being bottled.
Because the entire process can take six months for a white or rose and years for certain reds, Gardner says its difficult to automate. Unlike beer, cider and milk in which its possible for a computer program to move a product through a series of steps like clockwork wine is much more variable in how its created and, ultimately, tastes.
One of the ways Gardner helps winemakers streamline the inherent variability of their craft is through sensory analysis, in which chemicals in wine are analyzed through a series of tech-infused science experiments. The process involves measuring the sugar and acid concentration of grapes before theyre picked as well as the wines nutritional content, sugar, sulfur dioxide, acetic acid, and yeast microflora, along with other metrics. Some wineries also use automated systems such as autotitrators (to test pH and/or acidity) and analyzers to assess various chemical constituents.
Sensory analysis helps us test consumer taste preferences, identify trends, evaluate the differences between wines, and characterize wine flavors and aromas, Gardner said. By enabling winemakers to measure the differences in their products from year to year, sensory analysis helps them incorporate numbers-based decision-making into their processes.
For example, having access to analytics can help a winery decide when to pick their grapes in a particularly hot or cold season, which has a ripple effect on the outcome of that years wine.
We had a really, really dry year in 2010, and almost none of the winemakers in the state had ever dealt with a situation where they saw such aggressive and fast ripening, Gardner said. Based on some of the data that year, everyone picked earlier than was optimal and a lot of high alcohol, very fruity red wines suddenly emerged. You just have to go with it.
Gardner, a frequent traveler, leads workshops in wine cellars, tasting rooms and labs across the state, and she and her colleagues publish how-to and research articles on their blog and share updates via Twitter and Facebook posts, which she says reach nearly every industry member in the state (and as far away as South Africa and Australia).
The grape growers and winemakers in Pennsylvania are some of the most talented people I know, Gardner said. From year to year, they dont know what kind of weather theyll be up against, like they do in California and Australia for example, and they have to continuously adapt. Sensory analysis and analytical testing are valuable resources, but ultimately, no number will be able to tell you what to do to make quality wine or production decisions.
In recent years, Gardner says theres been a boom in the number of wineries opening across the state thanks to increasing market interest, quality improvements and wines that adhere to global styles.
In Pennsylvania, youre never more than an hour away from the closest winery and theres something for everyone. We have such a variety of grapes here from chambourcin and gruner veltliner to muscat that each winery is able to add their own touch and truly develop a signature style, she said. And because wine is a reflection of the year and place those grapes are grown, each glass of Pennsylvania vintage is like a little piece of history.
The Prairie Doc: Men, you can thank women for your good health
The farming sector has become worried at recent concerns over declining cream production, with the National Farmers Union warning 'unsustainable farmgate prices' as the key reason why.
The cream production industry has endured difficult conditions during the past five years. Highly volatile dairy prices and heavy discounting of milk prices by supermarkets have squeezed industry revenue and profitability.
The industry has also been affected by changing consumer preferences, as consumers have shifted away from full-fat products in favour of low-fat and skimmed alternatives. These conditions have resulted in consolidation activity among industry participants.
Unsustainable farmgate prices have lead to reduced production
NFU dairy board chairman Michael Oakes has responded to recent concerns over UK cream production: We have long warned that unsustainable farmgate prices would lead to reduced production and in turn less choice for consumers of high-quality British dairy products. Manufacturers will do their upmost to ensure British milk and other fresh dairy products, such as cream and butter, will be on retail shelves this Christmas but this may mean moving milk away from cheese production which will impact on future cheese availability.
The UK dairy sector has been under significant pressure over the past two years due to low prices that has affected the vast majority of dairy farmers. Farmgate milk prices have recently started to rise but dairy farming is a long-term business and it will take more than a few milk price increases to instil confidence back into the sector.
This situation is not beneficial to farmers or the public so we need to find better ways of managing volatility for the benefit of all to ensure we see great British, Red Tractor-assured dairy products on shelves for the long-term future.
Milk processors are 'sitting on stocks'
The Rural Payments Agency has indicated that 1800 UK farmers are looking to reduce production by 112 million litres this autumn. NFU Scotlands Milk Committee Chairman Graeme Kilpatrick said there is "every justification" based on commodity prices, production levels and futures prices "for every dairy farmer in Scotland to be getting 25p per litre now and not in three or four months time."
"The price increases announced in recent weeks are welcome but they neither go far enough or fast enough in our opinion and leave almost all producers woefully short of a profitable milk price," Mr Kilpatrick said.
All dairy farmers in Scotland are acutely aware of where commodity prices for cheese, butter, cream and powder have shifted to in a matter of a few weeks.
"The unacceptable delays seen in milk buyers passing the benefits of the price lifts back to their suppliers is creating huge concern and frustration at farmer level.
"Some of those milk processors will be sitting on stocks of cheese, butter or powder, made with incredibly cheap milk, and are now set to make a windfall on them based on rapidly increasing market prices.
"Farmers cannot be left behind to continue producing at a loss," Mr Kilpatrick concluded.
Lidl is now a firm part of the local retail scene across the UK, and two farming unions have organised events promoting produce to its consumers.
The Ulster Farmers Union deputy president, Ivor Ferguson, said he was cautiously optimistic about the prospects for local growers given the rise of Lidl.
We were encouraged that Lidl appear to share our view that there is a real opportunity to develop the market for fresh produce from Northern Ireland farmers, packers, and processors, said Mr Ferguson.
UFU said they were encouraged by Lidl's vision for fresh produce
Growers have faced challenges in the recent past, because of poor returns, and Mr Ferguson said this had been made worse because of difficulties securing land for crops. This is down to the complexities of the conacre system. Before committing to often expensive land growers need reassurances from retailers that they wont face further downward pressure on prices, said the UFU deputy president.
He said Lidl appeared positive about fresh produce, recognising that local growers supply top quality vegetables and potatoes. They obviously want the best for their customers and I believe they are keen to use local supplies to grow the market, said Mr Ferguson.
Ensuring customers have faith in every step of sourcing policy is an important part of the Fruit and Veg Pledge
Promoting high quality Scottish produce
Farmers in Scotland took produce to their local Aldi store at Perth on the weekend to encourage shoppers to support the industry and buy Scottish produce available on their doorsteps.
The promotional event saw NFU Scotland members and farmers speak to customers and offer a range of samples for consumers to try, including: Scotch Lamb, Scotch sirloin steaks, vintage cheddar, oatcakes and chutney.
Roddy Kennedy, NFU Scotlands Regional Chairman for East Central, and local farmer, commented: There has been a lot happening this year to promote the high quality Scottish produce available to consumers and we are continuing in our work to speak to consumers about where their food comes from.
This event is part of a wider roadshow NFU Scotland has organised at supermarkets and farmers markets across the country in recent months. We encouraging shoppers to buy Scottish, support their farmers and our industry. Our produce is some of the best in the world and is available right on their doorsteps."
Fruit and Veg Pledge
Lidl announced in summer its commitment to the National Farmers Union Fruit and Vegetable Pledge.
Championing best practice in the fresh produce sector, the code is designed to cultivate strong and long-standing relationships between retailers, intermediaries and growers.
The commitment shows a working goal towards a sustainable approach for all of its growers. Lidl says it has gained an 'in-depth understanding of the importance of developing long-term relationships with growers'.
The supermarket says this enables them to invest and grow, contributing to a profitable British fresh produce sector.
Ali Capper, NFU horticulture and potatoes board chair said: "We are delighted that Lidl has publicly committed to our pledge, highlighting its commitment to long-term supply relationships, equitable distribution of reward along the supply chain, and fair and respectful trading relationships.
"Our goal is to generate integrity, honesty and openness across the market and that can only come from the key asks within our pledge which includes price certainty, transparent working and strong, long term relationships that are fair for everyone involved."
Fifteen senior medics have written to the UK government calling for urgent action to tackle the 'routine misuse' of antibiotics in farming.
Signatories to the letter, which was published today in The Telegraph to coincide with World Antibiotic Awareness Week, include the President of the Royal Society of Medicine - Babulal Sethia, the President of the British Medical Association - Professor Pali Hungin, and the Presidents of ten Royal Colleges and Societies.
Coordinated by the Alliance to Save our Antibiotics and Medact, the letter states: We urge the government to immediately introduce a UK-wide ban on the routine preventative mass medication of animals, and to urgently curb farm use of the critically important antibiotics.
'Clear need for domestic policies which ensure that antibiotics are used judiciously in human and animal medicine'
Use of antibiotics in intensively farmed livestock, particularly of pigs and poultry, accounts for nearly 90% of all farm antibiotic use in the UK. It remains legal in the EU to routinely administer antibiotics to whole groups of livestock before any disease has been diagnosed within the group.
Professor Maureen Baker, Chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners, said: GPs and our teams are doing an excellent job of reducing prescriptions for antibiotics, with the latest NHS figures showing a 2.6m decrease in UK general practice last year. But its not just the healthcare sector that has responsibility for curbing resistance to antibiotics; the agriculture sector must also play its part. If antibiotics continue to be given to livestock when they are not needed it will put patients at risk all over the world. We support the recommendations outlined in this letter and would urge the Secretaries of State to take them into serious consideration.
'There is a real risk that, if we do nothing, modern medicine as we know it will be undermined,' said Leadsom
Banning of routine antibiotic use in farming
In March 2016, the European Parliament voted for an EU-wide ban to all routine antibiotic use in farming. Forthcoming negotiations between the Council of Ministers, the European Parliament and the European Commission will consider this proposal. Letter signatories urge the UK government to take a strong stand in these discussions, and to ensure that, post-Brexit, such measures are enshrined in UK law.
Professor Jane Dacre, President of the Royal College of Physicians said: In the light of the UKs forthcoming exit from the EU, there is a clear need for unambiguous domestic policies which ensure that antibiotics are used judiciously in human and animal medicine. The use of important antibiotics to routinely mass medicate groups of livestock does not constitute judicious use, and should have no place in any antibiotic-reduction strategy for the UK.
MPs have also recently spoken out on this issue. Following the revelations in September of multi-drug resistant E.coli on supermarket meat, 57 MPs from across the political parties have signed an Early Day Motion calling on supermarkets to ban the routine preventative use of antibiotics in their supply chains. However, only Waitrose has so far clarified that it prohibits such practices.
Professor John Middleton, President of the Faculty of Public Health concluded: The evidence linking the overuse of antibiotics in farming and resistance in human bacterial infections is extremely compelling. It is clear that more needs to be done to limit veterinary prescribing. The government must now listen to, and act on, the concerns of the medical community - and place public health at the heart of considerations around the future UK farm antibiotic-use policy.
'Modern medicine as we know it will be undermined'
Andrea Leadsom, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and Jeremy Hunt, the Health Secretary, said: "There is a real risk that, if we do nothing, modern medicine as we know it will be undermined."
"The UK will work closely with different individual sectors to ensure that appropriate sector specific reduction targets are agreed by 2017 so that future reductions are greatest where there is most scope. Encouraging best practice and responsible use of antibiotics, which safeguard animal health and welfare, is a must," the government report said.
Earlier this year, Dairy UK launched a package of new measures for the dairy industry as part of its ongoing commitment to the prudent use of antibiotics. The aim is to deliver "safe and wholesome" dairy products to consumers across the UK, according to the trade association.
The UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has also pledged to help countries develop strategies for tackling the spread of antimicrobial resistance in their food supply chains. The misuse of drugs, associated with the emergence and spread of antimicrobial-resistant micro-organisms, places everyone at great risk, the FAO has said.
And British pig producers are making progress in the sector's commitment to record and control the use of antibiotics in the industry, data shows. In less than two months, antibiotic data for over 1.2m pigs has already been contributed by pig producers to the British pig industry's new on-line medicine book.
"The levy-funded on-line electronic medicine book is the most important strand of the Stewardship Programme," said Dr Georgina Crayford, who leads the National Pig Association's recently-launched Pig Industry Antibiotic Stewardship Programme.
East of England farming co-operative Fengrain has joined forces with Crisp Malting Group to create a state-of-the-art new malting barley storage facility in Norfolk.
Fengrains four new silos at Crisps Great Ryburgh site will provide storage for 10,000 tonnes of malting barley. The maltsters at Crisp will use this to produce 7,700 tonnes of premium quality malt, this in turn can be used by brewers to create 120 million pints of beer.
Rob Munro, Fengrain managing director, says: The opening of this great new storage facility reflects the fact our co-operative is growing.
Clinking glasses Rob Munro (left) with Adrian Dyter
We already have 900 members and this significant investment by Fengrain opens up opportunities for even more growers in the East Anglia region. They, too, will be able to benefit from our unique marketing proposition and excellent relationship with Crisp and other customers.
The new silos enable direct delivery at harvest time from the farm to the customer. This avoids time-wasting, resource-intensive double handling. It means that the barley can be dried and stored in perfect conditions from the outset. All this helps attract best available premiums for members.
The silos will bring benefits in terms of quality controls and convenience, says Bob King, commtrcial director, Crisp Malting Group, their installation on our site will also reduce haulage saving around 20,000 HGV miles and 27,000kg of carbon dioxide emissions a year.
Boom in craft brewing
The boom in craft brewing is driving demand for premium malt malt is barley that has gone through the three-step process of steeping, germinating and kilning. Malts range in colour and character from extra pale to crystal to black, according to the length of time and temperature of the kilning.
To produce the best malt we must have top quality malting barley all year round, says Bob King, excellent storage conditions are absolutely crucial and this joint venture will provide them.
Weve been working with Fengrain and its members over many years. Positioning their silos on our site shows the commitment from both parties to a long-term partnership.
The deal secures high quality, local raw materials for us. It increases our capacity so we can meet the growing demand for our malt from craft brewers across the country and abroad. Britain is the worlds number three malt producer and we are one of the countrys main exporters. Our famed malt is sent to brewers and distillers across the world, so people everywhere are tasting a little bit of East Anglia as they sip their beer or whisky.
Previously, barley was being transported to and stored at Fengrains headquarters at Wimblington - or being stored on farms then transported to Fengrain for onward movement to Crisp.
The National Farmers Union has called upon industry bodies to discuss how access to the right inputs is vital for the future of oilseed rape.
The oilseed rape harvest in 2017 could fall to its lowest level in 13 years, according to new figures, and is an important crop for many arable farmers.
Organisations from across the industry are meeting at NFU headquarters in Stoneleigh, Warwickshire tomorrow [15 November] to discuss how working together can help to resolve growing issues with oilseed rape. These issues include insect control without access to neonicotinoid seed treatment and a continuing decline in farmers planting the crop.
NFU advisers will be speaking about the emergency use applications in 2015 and 2016
New figures from AHDB show that the net oilseed rape area for harvest 2017 could be the lowest for 13 years with only 557 Kha predicted. This would mark the fifth year that the planted area for oilseed rape has fallen.
Discussions will include Rothamsted Research speaking on cabbage stem flea beetle resistance, AHDB Cereals on its work in developing integrated crop management techniques with oilseed rape and plant breeders on improving the performance of oilseed rape and its economic sustainability.
NFU advisers will be speaking on the emergency use applications in 2015 and 2016, as well as what might be necessary to help improve the success rate of applications.
NFU combinable crops board chairman Mike Hambly said: It is vital for the industry to work together to tackle the growing problems that oilseed rape presents to farmers and to the supply chain.
As we move to a year where it looks like the area of oilseed rape will decline for a fifth year in a row, it is abundantly clear that there is a lack of confidence among farmers to plant the crop and that is something that we need to address.
Oilseed rape can be an important crop for the sector and it has good demand. There are clearly difficulties with the crop and coming together as an industry we can agree on a proactive plan to move forward and tackle this issue head-on.
The widow of a farmer who was killed when he was kicked by a bullock will get no compensation after a judge ruled that the animal could not be blamed.
William Richards, 72, was tending to a group of bullocks in the yard at his farm at St Allen, near Truro, when he kicked by the hind legs of one of them, London's Appeal Court heard.
His widow, Gillian Richards, campaigned through the courts for at least 325,000 compensation from the farm's insurers. But the judge ruled that her husband was "wholly to blame" for the accident.
Judge Carr said there was 'no doubt' that Mr Richards got 'dangerously close to the bullock's back legs, and did so in a confined space'. An 'experienced stockman who knew the risks posed', he would have been kicked 'many times' during his farming career.
'Wholly to blame'
"The only possible conclusion is that Mr Richards was wholly to blame for the accident."
Challenging that ruling at the Court of Appeal, his widow's barrister, John Snell, said: "The judge fell into error in determining that, if no-one else was at fault, then the deceased must have been wholly at fault. The judge did not find as a fact that the deceased had provoked the bullock into kicking. The accident was partly due to the deceaseds fault and partly due to whatever it was that caused the animal to kick out."
But Lord Justice Moore-Bick said that 'animals of this kind behave unpredictably' particularly in confined spaces.
"I do not think it is arguable that the action of the animal itself can be regarded as a relevant cause of the accident or as diminishing the degree of fault on Mr Richard's part. I do not think this ground of appeal could have any real prospect of success. I refuse permission to appeal," he said.
Convert 10% of arable land to agroforestry, Woodland Trust says
As part of the efforts of Chattanooga 2.0, the Chattanooga Interfaith Council will host an education summit focused on the faith based communitys work supporting schools and families.
The summit will include two expert panels with a keynote on the impact a coalition of faith based leaders and organizations can have on education outcomes in a community.
Panelist will include: Kirk Kelly, Hamilton County Department of Education; Donna McConnico, Signal Centers; Stacy Lightfoot, Public Education Foundation; Gladys Pineda-Loher, Chattanooga State Community College; David Steele, Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce; Bill Rush, YMCA; Mary Grey Moses, First Centenary United Methodist Church Inner City Ministry; Christian Patino, La Paz Chattanooga; Julie Baumgardner, First Things First and Cedric Jackson, Emerald Youth Foundation.
The education summit will be held Monday at the Oak Street Center, 433 Oak St. Registration and a light dinner will be from 5:30-6 p.m. and the speaker and panels will be from 6-8:30 p.m.
The earthquake measured 7.5 on the Richter scale
By Diego Flammini
Assistant Editor, North American Content
Farms.com
An earthquake measuring 7.5 (out of 10) on the Richter scale hit parts of New Zealand over the weekend and it appears dairy farmers were significantly impacted.
According to NZ Herald, about 30 farms wont have milk picked up due to road access. Some farmers are sharing resources to get their cows milked.
Its got to be done, dairy farmer Justin Slattery told NZ Herald. Especially at this time of year the cows are in peak production. So you just have to keep milking them.
Slattery said, when the earthquake hit, his cows began moaning and groaning.
Slattery said hes using his neighbours milking shed to milk his 520 cows and will continue to do so until power is restored at his farm. The farming community is showing it can rally and rebound when faced with adversity.
Everyone is pitching in. Farmers are being bloody generous actually and pitching in, sharing generators and helping out where is needed, he said.
The earthquake triggered a number of landslides, and at least one resulted in farm animals being stranded.
Captured footage shows three cows isolated on a patch of land surrounded by destruction from the quake.
On his Facebook page, Chris Brown, a celebriary veterinarian from Australia, said rescue efforts are underway to save the animals.
According to the Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand, about 95 per cent of the countrys milk is exported and is valued at NZ$13.7 billion (US$9.7 billion).
Creekside at Shallowford was selected as a Caring Star of 2017 as part of an annual nationwide program honoring service excellence. The recognition was based on consumer ratings and reviews posted on Caring.com, the senior care website.
Creekside at Shallowford was one of the 34 Holiday Retirement communities recognized among the best in this years distinguished awards. Of senior living providers, Holiday Retirement had the highest number of communities named a Caring Star.
Creekside at Shallowford captured an average rating of 4.5 or higher (on a scale of 1 to 5) in at least 10 or more reviews from family, seniors and others considering senior living options, including assisted living and Alzheimers care, while also meeting other top qualifying criteria for the honor.
We couldn't be more proud of Creekside at Shallowford for earning this prestigious award and being recognized for its service excellence, said Lilly Donohue, CEO at Holiday Retirement. The Caring Star award clearly demonstrates the communitys commitment to high-quality service and care.
According to various studies from Caring.com, online consumer reviews are weighted heavily by the majority of family caregivers when researching senior living communities. The Caring Stars awards program helps families narrow senior living options for their loved ones to the retirement communities most-acclaimed by families like theirs.
"Congratulations to Holiday Retirement for its 34 communities that achieved this service excellence award after earning many accolades from residents and their loved ones on Caring.com," said Karen Cassel, CEO of Caring.com. "This important milestone speaks volumes about the positive difference Holiday Retirement is making in serving seniors, and we join with Holiday Retirement in celebrating this accomplishment.
Creekside at Shallowford is at 7511 Shallowford Road. For more information, call 485-9933 or visit holidaytouch.com/our-communities/creekside-at-shallowford.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin visits troops at Fort Bragg
The commander of Fort Bragg and the 18th Airborne Corps said, "Welcome Home," to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin when he arrived on post Tuesday.
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The Theta Phi Chapter of Sigma Kappa Sorority, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC), received the Sigma Kappa Founders Award, given to the most outstanding Sigma Kappa chapter in the nation, for the second consecutive year. The national organization selects one collegiate chapter to receive the award as a fitting tribute to the sororitys five founders. The Founders Award is presented to the chapter that has duly honored Sigma Kappas ritual and lives the sororitys values of friendship, loyalty, service, and personal growth. Kristen Marin, Theta Phis Chapter president, and Kinsey Glenn, Theta Phis executive vice president accepted the award at the sororitys national convention held in Las Vegas.
The members of Theta Phi attribute their continued success to the chapters dedication to community service, campus involvement, and time and effort dedicated by chapter members and alumnae advisors. Collectively, the members of Theta Phi dedicated over 17,000 hours of community service to local organizations and in support of their national philanthropies and held over twenty development programs for their memberships and students on campus.
For the third consecutive year, Theta Phi has received the sororitys most prestigious collegiate award, a three-star standards of excellence rating. Each collegiate chapter is assessed annually using defined criteria aligned to Sigma Kappas values to measure chapter success in areas such as academics, leadership, and skill development. Theta Phi was one of three Sigma Kappa chapters across the country that exceeded national requirements and demonstrated exceptional performance in areas such as membership, philanthropy, scholarship, public relations, ritual, recruitment, programming, alumnae relations, and campus involvement.
This award is a reflection of the passion, hard work, and dedication to excellence displayed by our membership, said Ms. Martin. On behalf of our chapter, I would like to thank the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, the Greek community at UTC, our advisors, and especially the staff of UTCs Office of Student Development for their continuous support and encouragement. Theta Phi will continue to work hard to leave a lasting legacy within our campus and the Chattanooga community.
For more information about the Theta Phi chapter of Sigma Kappa, visit http://utc.sigmakappa.org/.
Join NYU Laws Program on Corporate Compliance and Enforcement on Wednesday, November 30 from 5 pm to 7 pm as a panel of remarkable individuals share the experiences that resulted in their own federal criminal convictions for white collar crimes.
Adding further insights will be an FBI Supervisory Special Agent and a former federal prosecutor.
The panel will identify inflection points in business decision making and compliance processes where questions, interventions, knowledge or relationships could have helped them make better, more ethical decisions.
Wading Into the Gray: Compliance and Enforcement Lessons When Good People Make Bad Decisions
A Roundtable Discussion with Rashmi Airan, Richard Bistrong, Walt Pavlo, and FBI SSA William McMurry Moderated by PCCE Executive Director Serina M. Vash.
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November 30, 2016
5:00-7:00 p.m.
New York University
School of Law
Lester Pollack Colloquium Room
Registration required
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Rashmi Airan spent five and a half months in prison for bank fraud in conneciton with a case involving a client of her law practice. Shes now is an inspirational and motivational speaker.
Richard Bistrong, the CEO of Front-Line Anti-Bribery LLC and a Contributing Editor to the FCPA Blog, is a former FBI/UK Cooperator. He spent fourteen and a half months in prison for violating the FCPA. Hes now an anti-bribery consultant, writer and speaker.
Walt Pavlo, Jr. is the founder and creator of Prisonology.com, a consulting and expert testimony firm for lawyers and defendants on the post-conviction process of the federal justice system. Pavlo is recognized as one of the leading commentators and speakers on white collar crime and federal criminal cases.
Supervisory Special Agent William McMurry has been a Special Agent with the FBI for more than twenty years. In July 2015 he was selected as the supervisor of a newly formed International Corruption Squad in the New York Field Division. He supervises investigations involving violations of the FCPA and AML laws.
Serina M. Vash is the Executive Director of NYU Law Schools Program on Corporate Compliance & Enforcement. She served as Acting Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division, Senior Litigation Counsel in both the Organized Crime/Gang Unit and the National Security Units. He has lectured throughout the country on criminal investigations, criminal prosecution, crime prevention and business ethics.
Register for the program here.
Houston-based driller National Oilwell Varco, Inc. reached a settlement with the DOJ, the Commerce Department, the Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for trade sanction violations reaching back to 2002.
The company and subsidiaries Dreco Energy Services Ltd. and NOV Elmar agreed to pay $25 million to resolve potential criminal and civil offenses.
The companies entered into a Non-Prosecution Agreement with the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of Texas that included a $25 million penalty.
National Oilwell Varco or NOV said in a securities filing the $25 million penalty for the universal settlement was preliminarily agreed in 2010. The company didnt say why the final settlement took six more years.
OFAC announced its enforcement action Monday (November 14).
The company said in a securities filing last week it entered into settlement agreements with the agencies on November 9.
OFAC said its penalty against National Oilwell Varco was about $6 million but was deemed satisfied by the companys payment of the $25 million criminal fine to the DOJ under the NPA.
From 2002 to 2005, NOV approved at least four Dreco commission payments to a U.K.-based entity related to the sale and export of goods from Dreco to Iran.
From 2006 to 2008, there were two deals worth about $13 million involving sales to Iran.
From 2007 to 2009, Dreco engaged in 45 transactions valued at about $1.7 million involving the sale of goods to Cuba.
There was one transaction with Sudan worth about $20,000 in 2005 or 2006.
OFAC said NOV didnt voluntarily self disclose the offenses.
The four commission payments to an agent involved in the Iran trade were egregious, OFAC said, because senior-level finance executives within NOV approved them.
NOV appears to have willfully blinded itself to the consequences of its approval by acquiescing to Drecos deliberate non-identification of Iran in its communications with NOV, OFAC said.
National Oilwell Varco trades on the NYSE under the symbol NOV.
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NOVs disclosure about the settlement in its Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 9, 2016 said,
On November 9, 2016, National Oilwell Varco, Inc. (NOV) entered into settlement agreements to resolve investigations by the U.S. Department of Justice, the Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, the U.S. Department of Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement regarding NOVs compliance with U.S. export trade laws and regulations. NOV will pay a total of $25 million to resolve the investigations, an amount which was preliminarily agreed upon in 2010 and which was fully accrued around that time. These matters were previously disclosed in NOVs annual reports on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q.
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Richard L. Cassin is the publisher and editor of the FCPA Blog.
I always wanted to be a writer or poet. It all began with the first story I wrote when I was six years-old. It was about 15 pages long and was about a cat, a witch and a spaceship. I remember being so proud that it was so long, and spent much time counting the words over and over again. When I grew up, my love for writing translated into a career in journalism, before I moved into communications. But being able to create a story from scratch and see it published as a book, is by far the best thing I have done.
Nicola J Rowley
I always thought that I would write adult fiction but I never sat down and wrote more than an odd chapter here and there. When my son was born, within weeks I started reading to him. It makes me incredibly happy to see the enjoyment he now gets from turning the pages, learning new words and going on special adventures. I would love to help instil a similar love of books and reading in all children, no matter what their age.
I love to laugh and smile. Happiness is really addictive. And there's nothing better than to surround yourself with like-minded people.
Being kind to others is really important to me. Even if it's just a small gesture like a smile, a simple act of kindness can make a big difference to someone else.
My head is always swimming with new ideas and characters, and I draw on inspiration from anywhere and everywhere. James and the Amazing Gift is loosely based on my son, who, as a baby was incredibly chilled and happy. Aside from this, I like to run and get a lot of ideas whilst I'm jogging past the horses in the fields first thing in the morning.
I like nothing more than to curl up with a good book and just lose myself in the characters and storyline. I am surrounded by children's books at home, so when I get the chance, it is good for me to retreat into a good adult novel.
One of my fondest memories from my childhood was when I was introduced to Roald Dahl's Revolting Rhymes. It is etched upon my memory, and began a lifelong love of all things poetry related. To this day, I still have the books that I created my own versions of Cinderella in.
I have been fortunate enough to travel a lot. I love Sydney, New York, and Hoi An in Vietnam and would definitely like to return to all of them. But for me, one of the biggest highlights was getting to meet mountain gorillas in the wild in Rwanda. There's something so beautiful and incredibly special about being close to wild animals in their own habitat.
I also run a successful photography business, specialising in children and family, weddings and commercial imagery. It's another passion of mine. I guess you could say - I always need to have a creative outlet.
I enjoy nothing more than to be surrounded by my friends and family. I am lucky to have some incredible people in my life, and my long-standing friendships mean the world to me.
Jackie Chan has received an honorary Oscar.
Jackie Chan
The 'Rush Hour' actor hailed his recognition at the Eighth Annual Governors Awards a "dream" come true after being recognised by the Academy for the first time in his 56-year career.
Accepting the accolade from Tom Hanks, Michelle Yeoh and Chris Tucker, he said: "My dad always said, 'Son, you get so many movie awards in the world, when are you going to get one of these?' Then I just look at my dad. 'Ha, ha, ha. Dad, I only make comedy action movies.' "
The 62-year-old actor recalled seeing Sylvester Stallone's Academy Award statuette when he had a meeting at the 'Expendables' star's home 23 years ago and admitted it made him "really want one".
He recalled: "I touched it, kissed it, smelled it... I believe it still has my fingerprints on it.
"Then I talked to myself, 'I really want one.' Finally, (Academy President Cheryl Boone Isaacs) called and I said, 'Are you sure?' "
Jackie went on to thank his fans and vowed to keep making movies, even though he's been left injured many times because of his work.
He said: "After 56 years in the film industry, making over 200 films, I've broken so many bones, finally this is mine. I want to thank you, Hong Kong, such an incredible city, my hometown, my hood, who make me.
"China, my country, I am proud to be Chinese. Thank you, Hollywood, for all of those years teaching me so many things, and also make me a little bit famous. I'm just honored to be here."
Other honourees at the event, which took place at the Hollywood and Highland Center in Los Angeles on Saturday (12.11.16) night, included film editor Anne V. Coates, casting director Lynn Stalmaster and documentary filmmaker Frederick Wiseman.
The star-studded guest list for the ceremony included Nicole Kidman, Warren Beatty, Emma Stone, Lupita Nyong'o, Ryan Reynolds, Viola Davis, Andrew Garfield, Dame Helen Mirren, Richard Gere, Michelle Williams, Mark Wahlberg, Amy Adams, Kate Beckinsale, Lily Collins, Marion Cotillard, Felicity Jones and Sir Ben Kingsley.
This November a moving true life story is coming to cinemas screens; directed by Amma Asante, and staring David Oyelowo and Rosamund Pike, A United Kingdom tells the incredible true story of Seretse Khama, King of Bechuanaland (modern Botswana), and Ruth Williams, the London office worker he married in 1948 in the face of fierce opposition from their families and the British and South African governments.
A United Kingdom
As the film heads to cinemas this November 25th we take a look back at other incredible true life stories that have been adapted for cinemas.
127 Hours
Starring James Franco, 127 Hours is a survival drama directed by Danny Boyle, the director behind Oscar winning film Slumdog Millionaire. Franco plays adventure mountaineer climber Aron Ralston who becomes trapped in a canyon in Utah. The film documents the drastic and desperate measures Ralston's had to resort to in order to survive. The film is adapted from the 2004 book written by Ralston titled Between a Rock and a Hard Place. The film was a hit during the 2010 awards season and was nominated for six Academy awards.
Schindler's List
Steven Spielberg's emotional 1993 film Schindler's List tells the incredible true life story of Oskar Schindler a German business man who saved many of his Jewish workers from the Nazis. The powerful film is shot entirely in black and white aside from poignant scenes which see a young girl in a red coat. The film's main cast provided moving performances with Liam Neeson playing Oskar Schindler, Ben Kingsley playing Schindler's business associate Itzhak Stern and Ralph Fiennes playing Nazi member Amon Goeth. The film often features in "Best Film" lists and is currently placed 6th in IMDBs list of the top 250 films of all time.
Captain Phillips
Tom Hanks plays Captain Richard Phillips in a film which documents the true events of a 2009 hijacking of an American container ship by Somali pirates. The pirates commandeered the ship taking the crew hostage before holding Phillips captive on a lifeboat. It is no surprise that Tom Hanks provides a dramatic performance as Captain Phillips however the breakout star of the film was Barkhad Abdi who played lead pirate Muse in his first ever acting job . Abdi was nominated for Best Supporting Actor at both the Oscars and Golden Globes and he went on to win the BAFTA in the same category.
Erin Brockovich
Julia Roberts won an Oscar in 2001 for her leading role as Erin Brockovich in the film of the same name which is a dramatization of real events which saw the single mum fight against Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) after discovering that the company's works contaminated the local water which poisoned local residents. The real life Eric Brockovich has noted that the film is 98-99% accurate. Did you know that the real Erin had a role in the film as a waitress named Julia?
Dallas Buyers Club
Matthew McConaguhey kick started the McConaissance with his incredible dramatic performance in Dallas Buyers Club which saw him sweep the board during the 2014 awards season winning the Oscar and Golden Globe for Best Actor for his performance as Ron Woodruff, a Texan who played the system to give himself and fellow AIDS patients the medication that they needed. Jared Leto played patient Rayon, whilst not based on a real person, Leto too received much praise for his award collecting Best Supporting Actor at both the Oscars and the Globes.
12 Years a Slave
12 Years a Slave tells the incredible true story of musician and freeman Simon Northup who lived in 1840s New York who was tricked and sold in to slavery by two gentleman whom he travel with to DC for a music job - Northup was a talented violinist. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Northup and documents his harrowing years in slavery which saw him moved from plantation to plantation encountering the brutality of owners until he was eventually freed. The powerful moving film picked up multiple awards including Best Picture, Best Performance by a Supporting Actress from Lupita Nyong'o and Best Adapted Screen Play for John Ridley.
Philomena
After finding herself pregnant in 1950s Ireland Philomena was forced by her parents to live in a convent, here she gave birth to her son and worked for numerous years. Against her wishes the nuns gave her son up for adoption without allowing Philomena to say goodbye. This was a secret she had kept from her family for 50 years until one drunken Christmas. From here, a chance meeting with journalist Martin Sixsmith saw the pair embark on a 5 year quest to find her son, which surprisingly for both, led to a remarkable journey. Judi Dench stared in the title role of the adaptation of Philomena's story whilst Steve Coogan played Martin Sixsmith. Coogan adapted the screenplay from Sixsmith's book documenting their journey titled The Lost Child of Philomena Lee: A Mother, Her Son and a Fifty Year Search.
Everest
Everest is a retelling of the 1996 expedition to Everest which saw multiple adventure groups get caught up in the furore of Mother Nature, a horrific storm that claimed many lives - at the time this was the deadliest natural disaster in Everest's history. Jason Clarke plays Rob Hall leader of the Adventure Consultants group whilst Jake Gyllenhaal plays the leader of competitor group Mountain Madness, who both lead their groups to the summit before they were caught in the storm. David Breashears, a fellow climber who was at base camp during the storm and who helped with the rescue, served as one of the film's co-producers. David was on the mountain in 1996 co-directing and photographing the first ever IMAX film short on Mount Everest.
The Kings Speech
Colin Firth bagged his first Oscar in the King's Speech a film about how King George VI worked alongside his speech therapist to conquer his fear of speaking in public and mask his speech impediment following his unexpected ascension to the throne. The film was nominated for an incredible 12 Oscars and went on to win 4 - Best Film, Best Actor, Best Director and Best Original Screenplay. Firth starred alongside Geoffrey Rush who played Lionel Logue his speech therapist and Helena Bonham Carter who played his wife Queen Elizabeth, both received Oscar nominations for their dramatic performances.
A United Kingdom is in UK cinemas 25th November
The Duchess of Cornwall has "never" had a large group of women look after her.
Prince Charles and Camilla
The 69-year-old royal recently visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with her husband Prince Charles in a bid to show their support to women in leadership and to help promote religious tolerance, and they were accompanied by an all-female protection team who were handpicked from the UAE's elite to protect them, which the Duchess found "extraordinary".
Speaking to the Daily Mail about her entourage, the Duchess - who is also known as Camilla Parker-Bowles - said: "It's fascinating. It is quite extraordinary to have them. I have never had four women looking after me [and] they are the most incredible women."
Camilla has revealed she quizzed a few of her guards including Shaima al Kaabi, Basima al Kaabi, Hannan al Hatawi and Nisreen al Hamawi on their venture, and was surprised to learn the females had conquered Mount Everest.
She added: "The first one had climbed Everest. I said 'How long did it take?' and she said 16 days! It's quite remarkable."
And images of Camilla and Charles were previously shared on Clarence House's Instagram account.
Alongside one image of Camilla surrounded by her guards who adorned the traditional hijabs and abayas walking out of the Emirates Palace Hotel, it read: "Her Royal Highness with her all-female protection team during #RoyalVisitUAE From left to right: Shaima al Kaabi, Basima al Kaabi, Hannan al Hatawi, Nisreen al Hamawi and Salama al Remeithi. Earlier this year Shaima, Nisreen and Hannan also achieved the remarkable feat of conquering Mount Everest. (c)Clarence House (sic)."
And the couple - who married in 2005 - have publicly thanked the UAE for their stay.
Alongside an image of the couple shared on social media, which sees Camilla wear a traditional bright blue ensemble, read: "Thank you for the wonderful welcome United Arab Emirates! The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall are now off to Bahrain, the final country on their Royal tour. Follow #RoyalVisitBahrain for updates (sic)."
Prince Harry's girlfriend Meghan Markle didn't have "time" to meet the Queen and Prince Charles during her visit to the UK.
Meghan Markle
The 35-year-old actress - who confirmed she was dating the 32-year-old royal last week - recently jetted over to England, and although a plan was supposedly in place for the 'Suits' star to meet with her beau's grandparents her trip was cut short on Thursday (10.11.16) due to work commitments, which forced her to miss out on the family gathering and fly home to Toronto, Canada, immediately.
Speaking about the brunette beauty's vacation and failure to meet the 90-year-old monarch to The Daily Express newspaper, an insider said: "It was only a mini-break because she's got filming commitments.
"There's been a lot of talk of her being introduced to the Queen and Prince Charles but there simply hasn't been time."
Although Meghan has only been living in Canada for a few years, she has been pleasantly surprised by how much she enjoys leaving there.
Speaking previously, the Los Angeles-born star said: "I've enjoyed living in Canada [where 'Suits' is filmed] for the past five years."
Meanwhile Meghan - who divorced from Trevor Engelson in 2013 after two years of marriage - has revealed her mantra is to not follow something through until the end or drag something out unnecessarily if she doesn't think it will last for a long time in the future.
Speaking previously about the motto's she believes in, she said: "My mantra is, 'Don't give it five minutes if you're not going to give it five years.'
"[And] there's a great quote from the artist Georgia O'Keeffe that resonates with me: ' I have already settled it for myself so flattery and criticism go down the same drain, and I am quite free."
Two out-of-state visitors who were vacationing in Gatlinburg this summer have pleaded guilty in Sevier County court for charges of intentionally feeding a black bear.
On Friday, July 8, Billy Harden, 40, and Dawn Cantrell, 27, from Nashville, In., were vacationing at 417 Silverbell Ln. in Gatlinburg when they and their two juvenile children decided to hand feed a yearling black bear. After posting photos of the act on Facebook, a local news station picked up the story, which was brought to the attention of TWRA.
Wildlife Officer Scott Reasor, who is assigned to Gatlinburg as the bear enforcement officer, responded to the area and cited both Harden and Ms. Cantrell for feeding a black bear. They appeared in Sevier County General Sessions Court on Oct. 27 and pleaded guilty to the charges. Judge Dwight Stokes assessed fines of $200 each with adjoining court costs of $270 each.
Officer Reasor said, Feeding bears eventually results in them becoming completely habituated to approaching people and ultimately becoming dependent on humans as a food source. Once this happens, they lose interest in natural foraging and have to be removed from that environment and in some extreme cases, euthanized.
This year, TWRA has documented 603 black bear incidents as of September. The majority of these cases were simple bear sightings, yet others range from garbage issues and property damage to bears struck by vehicles and orphaned cubs. Fortunately, TWRA has only reported four incidents involving aggressive bears.
In recent years, two separate incidents reveal just how dangerous the intentional feeding of bears can be. In 2009, a 74-year-old woman in Colorado, who had previously been warned against feeding bears by the Colorado Division of Wildlife, was found mauled to death and partially eaten by a black bear in her back yard. In 2015, an 85-year-old woman from Montana was attacked inside her home by a bear she had been actively feeding. She died from her injuries within days of the attack.
Sales for the three months ended October 1, 2016 at fashion marketer Michael Kors dropped 3.7 per cent to $1.09 billion, as against 1.13 billion in the prior fiscal's second quarter. Of this, retail net sales rose 12.1 per cent year over year to $597.2 million, driven primarily by 198 net new store openings since the end of the second quarter of fiscal 2016.In the second quarter of fiscal 2017, gross profit declined 3.0 per cent from a fiscal ago period to $644.7 million, and as a percentage of total revenue stood at 59.2 percent, compared to 58.8 per cent in the second quarter of fiscal 2016.
Sales for the three months ended October 1, 2016 at fashion marketer Michael Kors dropped 3.7 per cent to $1.09 billion, as against 1.13 billion in the prior fiscal's second quarter. Of this, retail net sales rose 12.1 per cent year over year to $597.2 million, driven primarily by 198 net new store openings since the end of the second quarter of fiscal 2016.#
According to the company, foreign currency translation and transactions favourably impacted gross profit margin by approximately 80 basis points.Net income for the reporting quarter was down at $160.9 million, or $0.95 per diluted share, vis-a-vis $193.1 million, or $1.01 per diluted share in the earlier fiscal's same period. (AR)
Fibre2Fashion News Desk India
Americhem, a global provider of colour and additive and engineered compound solutions for the polymer industry, recently completed a survey of verified customers and users of Americhem products in partnership with TechValidate. Americhem gathered more than 750 data points that will help the company better understand their customers' needs and perceptions.The company also discovered several key business benefits that illustrate why organisations should be tapping into their customer bases for insights.
Americhem, a global provider of colour and additive and engineered compound solutions for the polymer industry, recently completed a survey of verified customers and users of Americhem products in partnership with TechValidate. Americhem gathered more than 750 data points that will help the company better understand their customers' needs and perceptions.#
The first benefit is to find out why customers choose a company over competitors. The TechValidate survey of Americhem customers, for example, asked customers who had evaluated one or more of eight competitive companies why they chose Americhem. Answers such as product consistency and product performance in manufacturing were common.The second benefit was to find out if customers would recommend a company, and why. Trusted recommendations carry a lot of weight when decisions around suppliers and partnerships are made, so understanding why a company is or isn't being recommended is important. Americhem found out that their customer service excellence was just as important as their product integrity for generating recommendations, for example.According to the third benefit, a company needs to find out what case study opportunities one might be missing. One may know about some customer success stories, but chances are there are positive results about which you have never heard. One organisation stated Americhem had enabled it to introduce and maintain a visual effect portfolio that generates over $250 million in revenue, for examplea strong story to tell.The fourth benefit was to find out about localised business wins within the organisation. Especially in nationwide or international organisations, it can be difficult to track small-scale successes that positively impact customers. For instance, one R&D department representative stated that the team at Americhem's Texas plant went out of the way to get the customer masterbatch on short notice.According to the fifth benefit, a company has to find out more about customer needs, challenges, and decision-making. Many people think they know what their customers need and want, as well as how they make the decisions they do. Conducting a detailed survey, however, allows the company to hear firsthand what the true driving forces are. (GK)
Fibre2Fashion News Desk India
Bracker, Switzerlands leading supplier of rings and travellers for ring spinning systems and a member of the Rieter Group, is set to present a variety of new textile machineries at India ITME 2016, the India international textile machinery exhibition, to be held from December 3 to 8, 2016, at the Bombay exhibition and convention centre, Mumbai.The highlight at ITME will be the Berkol multigrinder. The entire range of top rollers and long cots used in a spinning mill can be processed on a single machine. Any execution of centre guided top roller is ground fully automatically on the Berkol multigrinder. With this system, one can achieve a grinding capacity of up to 150 top rollers per hour, while leaving the Berkol multigrinder unattended for as long as 30 minutes. In addition to the automatic grinding of top rollers, with the Berkol multigrinder, one can also benefit from the semi-automatic grinding of long cots with up to 490 millimetres axis length.
Bracker, Switzerland's leading supplier of rings and travellers for ring spinning systems and a member of the Rieter Group, is set to present a variety of new textile machineries at India ITME 2016, the India international textile machinery exhibition, to be held from December 3 to 8, 2016, at the Bombay exhibition and convention centre, Mumbai.#
Bracker will also unveil Berkol 63, a new cot dedicated to spinning compact yarns. It enables constantly outstanding yarn values throughout entire lifetime. Excellent fibre guidance is given due to softness of compound without showing lapping tendencies. Besides the introduction of the new cot, other types were optimised to offer highest market standards in terms of price/performance ratio.The company will also present the new Starlet plus traveller with its improved coating shows a better resistance against corrosion. This is of high importance in challenging spinning conditions like high humidity or aggressive fibres. As a result, the service life can be extended by up to 50 per cent. These travellers, which are suited for the entire yarn count range, are especially recommended for spinning viscose , CO/CV blends, PES, and dyed fibres. During the entire service life, the yarn quality values remain constant.Other products, which Bracker will present at ITME, will include Titan and RedOrbit spinning rings, as well as Starlet, Pyrit, and Zirkon travellers. (GK)
Fibre2Fashion News Desk India
The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) in India is considering promoting solar powered spinning yarn charkhas under off grid and decentralised solar programme. For this initiative, manufacturers and developers of solar powered charkhas have been requested to send their comments on the technical specifications, accompanied with designs by the ministry.This was informed by a media agency, which quoted an official of the MNRE ministry, who added that it is possible, to eliminate the hard work involved in the manual operation of charkha, while also increasing the wage earning capacity.
The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) in India is considering promoting solar powered spinning yarn charkhas under off grid and decentralised solar programme. For this initiative, manufacturers and developers of solar powered charkhas have been requested to send their comments on the technical specifications, accompanied with designs by the ministry.#
According to the official, use of solar energy can usher in a new era for spinning charkhas and also for persons involved in the trade , particularly for those living in the rural areas, since charkhas are being mainly operated in rural areas. (AR)
Fibre2Fashion News Desk India
Inspiron Engineering, a hot air stenters manufacturer, will showcase a next generation stenter, the Motex 15000 at the upcoming India ITME in hall 5, stall C1. The Motex 15000 has been developed with unprecedented features and state-of-the-art aesthetics. It offers 15 per cent higher drying efficiency and higher operating speed compared with Motex 4560.
Inspiron Engineering, a hot air stenters manufacturer, will showcase a next generation stenter, the Motex 15000 at the upcoming India ITME in hall 5, stall C1. The Motex 15000 has been developed with unprecedented features and state-of-the-art aesthetics. It offers 15 per cent higher drying efficiency and higher operating speed compared with Motex 4560.#
In addition to being manufactured in a sustainable manner, the Motex 15000 consumes less energy, has better safety features, and minimises waste, while offering better operational efficiency and maximum return on investment.
Inspiron Engineering, a hot air stenters manufacturer, will showcase a next generation stenter, the Motex 15000 at the upcoming India ITME in hall 5, stall C1. The Motex 15000 has been developed with unprecedented features and state-of-the-art aesthetics. It offers 15 per cent higher drying efficiency and higher operating speed compared with Motex 4560.#
The new model enables the processor to achieve even drying and heat setting at higher evaporation rates with optimum energy utilisation, which translates into lower operating cost per metre of fabric.
Inspiron Engineering, a hot air stenters manufacturer, will showcase a next generation stenter, the Motex 15000 at the upcoming India ITME in hall 5, stall C1. The Motex 15000 has been developed with unprecedented features and state-of-the-art aesthetics. It offers 15 per cent higher drying efficiency and higher operating speed compared with Motex 4560.#
The Motex 15000 also achieves consistent and reproducible results across the length and width of the fabric, even with larger overfeed adjustment range up to 80 per cent. It ensures higher stretch, irrespective of the higher GSM of the fabric and is equipped with pin protection flapper for knitted fabrics.
Inspiron Engineering, a hot air stenters manufacturer, will showcase a next generation stenter, the Motex 15000 at the upcoming India ITME in hall 5, stall C1. The Motex 15000 has been developed with unprecedented features and state-of-the-art aesthetics. It offers 15 per cent higher drying efficiency and higher operating speed compared with Motex 4560.#
The stenter requires lubrication once a year or even later, while offering easy access and retrieval of operating and maintenance manual through GUI. Its higher squeezing capability ensures optimum pick up percentage for specific processes like wet on wet finish with desired add on, resulting in better productivity. It comes equipped with a 'Tilting Trough' with optimised capacity to reduce drain losses.
Inspiron Engineering, a hot air stenters manufacturer, will showcase a next generation stenter, the Motex 15000 at the upcoming India ITME in hall 5, stall C1. The Motex 15000 has been developed with unprecedented features and state-of-the-art aesthetics. It offers 15 per cent higher drying efficiency and higher operating speed compared with Motex 4560.#
Inspiron has also recently unveiled a R&D Centre near Ahmedabad, which will undertake sustainable development projects to produce products of the best quality, innovative and user friendly technology, to meet and preferably surpass customer expectations.
Inspiron Engineering, a hot air stenters manufacturer, will showcase a next generation stenter, the Motex 15000 at the upcoming India ITME in hall 5, stall C1. The Motex 15000 has been developed with unprecedented features and state-of-the-art aesthetics. It offers 15 per cent higher drying efficiency and higher operating speed compared with Motex 4560.#
Attached to the R&D Centre is also an Incubation Centre, which is equipped with a demo stenter for mills to undertake trails and test out their unique ideas, while also validating them under actual working conditions, before venturing into commercial production.
Inspiron Engineering, a hot air stenters manufacturer, will showcase a next generation stenter, the Motex 15000 at the upcoming India ITME in hall 5, stall C1. The Motex 15000 has been developed with unprecedented features and state-of-the-art aesthetics. It offers 15 per cent higher drying efficiency and higher operating speed compared with Motex 4560.#
The Incubation Centre is equipped with a laboratory, library and conference-cum-training room and is manned by a team of process technologists and design professionals. (RKS)
Fibre2Fashion News Desk India
OrganoClick AB, a Swedish company that develops functional materials based on environmentally friendly fibre chemistry, has entered into an agreement to acquire all shares in the Sweden-based Biokleen Miljokemi AB, a chemical technology firm that focuses on eco-labelled cleaning and maintenance products for wood, home, house, and car care.The acquisition is part of OrganoClick's growth strategy and adds to the existing product portfolio another strong brand as well as a sales force for Swedish paint dealers.
OrganoClick AB, a Swedish company that develops functional materials based on environmentally friendly fibre chemistry, has entered into an agreement to acquire all shares in the Sweden-based Biokleen Miljokemi AB, a chemical technology firm that focuses on eco-labelled cleaning and maintenance products for wood, home, house, and car care.#
The total price OrganoClick paid for Biokleen Miljokemi AB is SEK 16 million. The payment is proposed to be made by SEK 4.75 million in form of 823 224 shares in OrganoClick at a share price of 5.77 SEK / share and SEK 11.25 million in cash. The share price is calculated as an average share price during the period September 26 to October 26, 2016, with a discount of about 5 per cent. The final agreement was signed on 10 November, 2016. The cash will be financed through a combination of loans and a proposed directed emission of shares. The acquisition is expected to be completed in December 2016.Biokleen Miljokemi products are used for washing off mould, algae, and dirt from facades, roofs and wooden decks. This is a great addition to OrganoClicks' existing wood treatment products. A number of Biokleen products are eco-labelled with the Swedish Swan and the product for algae and mould cleaning has been named Best in Test by the Folksam Test for mould cleaning products.The agreement is conditioned upon that the extraordinary general meeting of OrganoClick resolves a share issue as part of the payment for Biokleen Miljokemi AB. The acquisition is thus expected to be completed in December 2016, after the decision is made to issue the shares by the OrganoClick extraordinary general meeting.The acquisition also provides a substantial contribution of sales, cash flow, and profit for OrganoClick. (GK)
Fibre2Fashion News Desk India
Wacker Chemie AG, German chemical company, has announced that Wacker China has started up its new pilot reactor for vinyl acetate-ethylene copolymer (VAE) dispersions at its Nanjing site (Jiangsu province), China. The new facility will help Wacker expand local research and grow to its regional portfolio of application technology and customer services.The investment needed for the pilot reactor amounts to around 2.4 million. The Group's goals for the project is to meet growing demand in China and Asia for high-quality polymeric binders and to strengthen its position as one of the world's leading manufacturers of VAE dispersions and dispersible polymer powders.
Wacker Chemie AG, German chemical company, has announced that Wacker China has started up its new pilot reactor for vinyl acetate-ethylene copolymer (VAE) dispersions at its Nanjing site (Jiangsu province), China. The new facility will help Wacker expand local research and grow to its regional portfolio of application technology and customer services.#
The pilot reactor serves as a research facility for custom-made VAE dispersions and dispersible polymer powders, which go on to be used in the construction, adhesives and coatings industries, among others. The experienced local technical team, supported by the state-of-the-art equipped technical centre in Shanghai, can now cooperate even better with Wacker's customers to develop first-class products with consistent high quality, optimise production processes and shorten developing periods. In this way, Wacker will be able to meet rising demand for high-grade polymeric binders in China and Asia, while continuing to grow its local expertise, application technology, and customer service.Peter Summo, president of Wacker said, Our objective is to work with our customers to develop first-class solutions adapted to local needs and, in that way, to contribute to Wacker's growth going forward. Wacker is now one of the world's few VAE manufacturers that can support customers in China from the development lab all the way up to large-scale production.Paul Lindblad, president of Wacker Greater China said The new facility will allow us to strengthen our role as a leading technology partner for numerous key industries and to underscore our long-term commitment to China.Located at Wacker's fully integrated polymer site in Nanjing, this ultramodern facility is state-of-the-art, as it is home to a completely automated monitoring and control system. Wacker already manufactures its VINNAPAS VAE dispersions and dispersible polymer powders in Nanjing products are used, for example, for formulating high-quality adhesives, low-odour, environment-friendly interior paints and for energy-saving building solutions such as external thermal insulation composite systems. Other applications include tile adhesives, plasters, paper coatings, carpet applications, and technical textiles. (GK)
Fibre2Fashion News Desk India
By expanding development assistance through our Ministry of Economy, the European Union has demonstrated confidence in Governments financial management and ability to drive effective and targeted development across a wide-range of sectors. We can now ensure that our joint development programmes with the EU have the most direct impact possible for our people the men and women whose hard work forms the backbone of our growing economy, said the Attorney-General.
The European Union is looking to expand direct budget support to Fiji through the Ministry of Economy to fund a range of collaborative development programmes. This announcement followed a meeting between Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and an EU delegation.The EU delegation consisted of the Head of Unit of Centralised Operations, Central Asia, Middle East/Gulf and Pacific, Mr. Jobst Von Kirchman, the Development Coordinator for the Pacific Region, Mr. Mathias Reusing, Head of Cooperation, Mr. Christopher Wagner, and the EU Ambassador to Fiji and the Pacific, Mr. Andrew Jacobs.The meeting included discussions on cooperative strategies for developing Fijis agriculture sector particularly how direct budget support from the EU would assist sugarcane and other farmers.
GUIDELINE - APPLYING FOR A POSITION WITH THE FIJIAN CIVIL SERVICE
On 22 January 2016 the Fijian Civil Service introduced Open Merit Recruitment and Selection. The focus of the changes is to ensure that the best eligible applicant for each position is appointed to the position. All positions in the Fijian Civil Service are available for open competition, and eligible, qualified people are encouraged to apply.
Eligibility will be specified in the advertisement and job description, but is generally Fijian Citizen, under 55 years of age, of good character with a clear police record, in sound health and able to demonstrate a commitment to the values of the Public Service (as stipulated in the Fijian Constitution).
NEW: Click here to view the FIJIAN CIVIL SERVICE SALARY BANDS
LIST OF CIVIL SERVICE VACANCIES
MOC 37/2022 - MEDIA ASSISTANT (TECHNICAL) Closes on: Thursday November 10, 2022 @ 3:00PM FJST
MOC 36/2022 - MEDIA ASSISTANT (PRODUCTION) Closes on: Thursday November 10, 2022 @ 3:00PM FJST
MOC 35/2022 - MEDIA ASSISTANT (MEDIA MONITOR/NEWS) Closes on: Thursday November 10, 2022 @ 3:00PM FJST
Lisa Haydon has posted a picture on her Instagram account in which she is seen in bed along with Sapna Pabbi and an unidentified male actor for a quirky photoshoot. Lisa has made her followers put on their thinking hats to identify who the actor is as both Lisa & Sapna have covered his face.
Well, can you guess who the actor is? If yes please leave your comments!!
She captioned her image as, "Long day at work 3 hour scene in bed with a mysterious actor." Of course, her followers are doing their best to find out who the actor is and some commented that it's Arjun Kapoor while others said that it is Sushanth Singh Rajput. However, none of them are right and we'll have to wait for Lisa's post to know who the actor really is.
Nail-biting! Sunny Leone Tweets On Donald Trump Vs Hillary Clinton Election Results!
Lisa Haydon tied the knot to the love of her life Dino Lalvani in October in a fabulous beach side wedding. Lisa looked gorgeous and the whole wedding looked like a dream! We wish the couple a happy married life and may they live hapilly all through their lives.
Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Service is set to launch the Tennessee Move Initiative. This will be a collaborative effort among the Departments Division of Mental Health Services and Division of Hospital Services, to provide intensive and customized care coordination services to individuals in long-term units within Tennessees state owned regional mental health institutes.
This statewide initiative will feature a local team in each Grand Division across the state of Tennessee. After an announcement of funding, the Department has chosen and contracted with the following community providers to implement the Tennessee Move Initiative:
West Tennessee: Alliance Healthcare;
Middle Tennessee: LifeCare Family Services; and
East Tennessee: Helen Ross McNabb Center.
"The primary purpose is to successfully transition identified individuals to community based housing by providing short-term intensive support services; our partnering Community Mental Health Centers will develop, implement, and monitor this Initiatives programming. In direct partnership with the state owned regional mental health institutes, the local teams will ensure individual, family, and housing provider support while connecting and coordinating with natural and formal supports within the individuals home community," officials said.
Essential Functions of Tennessee Move Initiative Local Teams:
Work closely with state hospital staff to engage long-term individuals ready for discharge;
Work in close collaboration with treatment provider to coordinate care;
Assist in securing benefits and resources;
Work in collaboration with state hospitals in securing housing if needed;
Connect to community resources (Peer centers, Psychosocial, Supported Employment, etc.);
Coordinate care with all providers (case manager, therapist, prescriber, etc.);
Provide 24/7 support to the individuals, their families, and housing providers; and
Work with community providers in moving individuals to a more independent levels of living.
Serving patients in the community setting is a priority for our Department, said Marie Williams, commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. Anytime a person can be served in a more familiar environment, the better off the person will be. I am really excited about this Initiative in our State because it focuses on providing treatment where it belongs, in the community.
For more information, visit www.tn.gov/behavioral-health.
Shahid Kapoor is all set to share the screen space with Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone for the first time, in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Padmavati. The actor is said to be essaying the role of Raja Ratan Singh, the Rajput ruler and husband of queen Padmavati (Deepika), in the period drama whereas Ranveer will be playing Alauddin Khilji, the medieval-era Delhi sultan, who falls in love with Padmavati.
At a recent event, Shahid revealed that he will start shooting for the movie in a couple of weeks. The Rangoon actor was quoted saying, "I will start shooting for 'Padmavati' in a couple of weeks. I haven't started it yet, but it is an amazing honour to work with Bhansali ji. I love his films, I think he is a fantastic filmmaker. I am very excited about the role he has offered me. This is the first time that Deepika and I will be working together which is great. This is the first time me and Ranveer will be working together, which is great."
He further added, "Padmavati is a really big film. It is a challenging film to do as an actor. After working with Vishal Bharadwaj, working with Bhansali is an amazing place to be. I feel very fortunate."
On the other hand, Deepika too says that Padmavati is going to be an extremely difficult film for her to do.
A couple of days ago, Ranveer had given us a glimpse of his look from this film..
Padmavati is slated to release on 17th November, 2017.
Hollywood actress Dakota Johnson has recently expressed her wish to get married, but secretly. The actress wants to follow the footsteps of her parents and grandparents when it comes to marriage.
Dakota said, she has been highly inspired by the story about how her parents and grandparents got married secretly, and she wants to carry the tradition forward.
"That's not dissimilar to how mum and dad married the first time. Maybe I should continue the tradition and get secretly hitched to a semi-suitable male? If it doesn't work out the first time, I'll just do it again with somebody else," said Dakota.
Dokota's grandmother Tippi Hedren said, "Peter and I had another wedding in a beautiful Lutheran church on Long Island. The pictures are too cute for words, it looks like two children getting married. He was 19 and I was 22. And Mum was married at 18! I'd better get to work."
Tippi continued, "Here's this slick young actor, charming and handsome as you could find - he had it all. And my little girl involved with that? That was asking way too much. She is very wilful though. She eloped, too".
"I remember exactly where I was when I found out. We had a phone on the wall by the staircase at our house and I got this call. 'Hi Mum! It's Melanie. I'm with Don. Guess What? We just got married!' I cried, 'Oh no.'" Tippi added further.
Week after week on Bigg Boss 10, the fights between VJ Bani and Lopamudra Raut don't seem to end; they pick a fight on any small thing and their ugly spat is turning things nasty on the show.
Lopa and Bani's fight has been going on since a very long time and any attempt to resolve things is only adding fuel to the fire. Bani losing to Lopa in the Khusti task and becoming her sevak for 24 hours, has definitely led to her ego getting hurt.
On seeing Lopa supporting Manu, Manveer and Monalisa during the nomination process, Bani taunts Lopa saying that she supported the wrong team and she doesn't know what she is doing.
Quite annoyed with Bani's comment, Lopa gets furious and tells her that Bani has no right to tell her what she is supposed to do and the she should avoid talking to her.
And, just to take revenge for this and the punishment that Bani had given her last week, Lopa uses her power saying that Bani will have to serve her food.
Responding to this, Bani tells her that she is breaking a rule by talking in English and she decides to punish her but Lopa doesn't seem to be affected by this.
Things change even ugly when Manu, Monalisa and Lopa are in the luggage room and discuss about Bani's behavior. Bani on the other hand is outside the door and listening to the entire conversation, and cannot control her laughter.
Both the ladies are poles apart and do not like each other due to ego issues. Lopamudra thinks Bani does not deserve to be in the house because she is fake, where as Bani thinks that Lopa is good for nothing and she doesn't really pay a heed to anything she says.
More fights might pop up as time passes, on Bigg Boss 10.
HONG KONG, CHINA -- (Marketwired) -- 11/13/16 -- Trend Micro Incorporated (TYO: 4704; TSE: 4704), a global leader in security software, today announced it received the highest score in the Current Offering category among the fifteen vendors evaluated in "The Forrester Wave: Endpoint Security Suites, Q4 2016" report. Trend Micro believes that being named as a leader by Forrester's report affirms the merits of having a complete endpoint protection portfolio and marks yet another point of independent industry validation of Trend Micro's technology leadership.
Trend Micro received the highest score possible in the Product Roadmap and Go-To Market Strategy criteria, garnering an overall score of 4.7 out of 5 in the strategy category. The report also states, "Overall, Trend Micro's current portfolio, combined with its short- and long-term road maps, aligns very well with the current and (likely) future needs of enterprise buyers."
"Receiving these scores in an independent evaluation from such a well-respected research firm is an important recognition and I believe it is confirmation that our endpoint security suite delivers the protection enterprises need," said Kevin Simzer, executive vice president, sales, marketing and business development for Trend Micro. "Customer references were also taken into account, and it is my view that the user feedback further validates our 'maximum protection, minimum impact' value proposition."
In addition to providing the best endpoint security technology available today, Trend Micro has the right vision to develop sophisticated techniques to combat the threats of tomorrow. Earlier this month, the company released its new class of cyber threat defense, XGen endpoint security, which complements Trend Micro's proven optimized protection with high-fidelity machine learning. Using a single or incomplete set of techniques can leave gaps in a company's security posture, but the evolving threat landscape demands a comprehensive, multi-layered endpoint protection strategy. This is exactly what XGen offers. With 28 years of experience and more than 155 million endpoints protected, this latest release demonstrates Trend Micro's unwavering commitment to innovation in the area of endpoint security.
Visit Trend Micro to access a copy of the full report.
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http://release.media-outreach.com/i/Download/3868
About Trend Micro
Trend Micro Incorporated, a global leader in cyber security solutions, helps to make the world safe for exchanging digital information. Our innovative solutions for consumers, businesses, and governments provide layered security for data centers, cloud environments, networks, and endpoints. All our products work together to seamlessly share threat intelligence and provide a connected threat defense with centralized visibility and control, enabling better, faster protection. With more than 5,000 employees in over 50 countries and the world's most advanced global threat intelligence, Trend Micro enables users to enjoy their digital lives safely. For more information, visit http://www.trendmicro.com.hk/.
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KARIYA, JAPAN, Nov 14, 2016 - (JCN Newswire) - DENSO Corporation today announced that it and Imagination Technologies (LSE: IMG) (hereinafter "Imagination"), headquartered in Hertfordshire, UK, are undertaking joint research on hardware multithreading that enables a processor (CPU) to execute multiple processes concurrently. The companies agree that this technology can provide an advantage for next-generation in-vehicle electronic systems.With recent developments in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and automated driving technologies, various in-vehicle components and functions have been computerized to ensure integrated control, and many computers (electronic control units or ECUs) have been built into vehicles. In general, LSIs (large-scale integrated circuits, which are a type of semiconductor device) incorporate two or more CPUs, and so the required performance of CPUs has become increasingly complex.Imagination develops and licenses intellectual property for semiconductor system-on-a-chip(1) devices (SoC IP cores), and has world-class multithreading technologies that are integrated into its MIPS CPUs. DENSO has decided to launch a joint research programme with Imagination in order to implement multithreading more efficiently for interconnections between ECUs in particular.DENSO has been developing technologies and products to help create a society free from traffic accidents. Based on these technologies, DENSO will continue to contribute to building a safe and secure automotive society for all people around the world, not just for drivers and pedestrians.(1) A design technique for integrated circuits to integrate necessary functions on semiconductor chipsAbout DensoDENSO Corporation, headquartered in Kariya, Aichi prefecture, Japan, is a leading global automotive supplier of advanced technology, systems and components in the areas of thermal, powertrain control, electronics and information and safety. Its customers include all the world's major carmakers. Worldwide, the company has more than 200 subsidiaries and affiliates in 38 countries and regions and employs nearly 140,000 people. Consolidated global sales for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2014, totaled US$39.8 billion. Last fiscal year, DENSO spent 9 percent of its global consolidated sales on research and development. DENSO common stock is traded on the Tokyo and Nagoya stock exchanges. For more information, go to www.globaldenso.com, or visit our media website at www.densomediacenter.com.Source: DensoContact:Copyright 2016 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved.
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.
Hitachi Ltd Corporate Communications Tel: +81-3-3258-1111
TOKYO, Nov 14, 2016 - (JCN Newswire) - Hitachi welcomed leaders from its particle therapy centers across the world to its second Users' Meeting, held in Tokyo on November 9th and 10th. Members from twelve world-class particle therapy facilities in the United States, Japan and Asia including those which are going to have Hitachi's system in the future joined the meeting to share their experiences with management, engineering teams and fellow users of Hitachi's systems.Particle therapy is an advanced form of radiation therapy which offers less invasive treatments for cancer therapy compared to other forms of treatments such as surgery with minimal side effects allowing for even the elderly to undergo treatments and enabling faster rehabilitation. As a result, demand for particle therapy systems is increasing all over the world. In April 2016, insurance coverage of particle therapy treatments in Japan was extended to include pediatrics and certain bone cancers - further evidence of it becoming widely recognized and promoted as an effective cancer treatment. Hitachi continues to partner with the world's most advanced treatment centers where over 12,000 patients have been treated to date with its systems and has established a reputation of high reliability with a proven track record. This year, Hitachi received orders from National Cancer Centre Singapore and Hong Kong Sanatorium Hospital Eastern District Advanced Medical Centre, further expanding the particle therapy business globally.Hitachi's Users' Meeting has been held since 2015 and is where the world's leading radiation oncologists, medical physicists and other medical professionals gather to share clinical experiences, opinions and requests regarding the system with Hitachi to refine the particle therapy system roadmap. This year, participants shared details about their facilities followed by a series of discussions regarding system performance and usability in an effort to achieve even more patient-friendly and effective treatments. Topics included patient throughput improvement and incorporating diagnostic imaging systems such as MRI and CT. Participants also described details of treatment and the impact of health insurance in various regions.Dr. Shirato of Hokkaido University, who has co-developed their proton therapy system with Hitachi in 2014 commented, "We intend to continue our joint research and development activities with Hitachi. I also have high expectations on Hitachi that the comments and discussions from this year's meeting will help them further develop their particle therapy system."Masaya Watanabe, Vice President and Executive Officer, CEO of Hitachi's Healthcare Business Unit, commented, "Leading edge particle therapy was achieved through Collaborative Creation between Hitachi and Hokkaido University. Moving forward, we intend to expand partnerships across many users and to continue these Users' Meetings to listen to the voice of the customer."Hitachi will continue to strive to provide superior systems as a leading company in particle therapy though future Users' Meetings and collaborative activities with users. Hitachi hopes to contribute to the medical community by providing solutions truly needed by users through high value and improving medical quality and efficacy through healthcare innovation.About Hitachi, Ltd.Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, delivers innovations that answer society's challenges with our talented team and proven experience in global markets. The company's consolidated revenues for fiscal 2014 (ended March 31, 2015) totaled 9,761 billion yen ($81.3 billion). Hitachi is focusing more than ever on the Social Innovation Business, which includes power & infrastructure systems, information & telecommunication systems, construction machinery, high functional materials & components, automotive systems, healthcare and others. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website at www.hitachi.com.Source: Hitachi, Ltd.Contact:Copyright 2016 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved.
CANBERA (dpa-AFX) - The Japanese yen weakened against the other major currencies in the Asian session on Monday. The yen fell to nearly a 2-week low of 135.14 against the pound, nearly a 4-month low of 108.49 against the Swiss franc and more than a 5-month low of 107.59 against the U.S. dollar, from Friday's closing quotes of 134.21, 107.79 and 106.59, respectively. Against the euro, the yen dropped to 116.17 from Friday's closing value of 115.69. The yen edged down to 76.35 against the NZ dollar, from an early 5-day high of 75.77. Against the Australian and the Canadian dollars, the yen edged down to 81.26 and 79.33 from last week's closing quotes of 80.39 and 78.72, respectively. If the yen extends its downtrend, it is likely to find support around 138.00 against the pound, 109.00 against the franc, 109.00 against the greenback, 117.00 against the euro, 79.00 against the kiwi, 83.00 against the aussie and 81.00 against the loonie. 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.
CANBERA (dpa-AFX) - The New Zealand dollar weakened against most major currencies in the Asian session on Monday. The NZ dollar fell to a 5-day low of 1.5257 against the euro, from Friday's closing value of 1.5248. Against the U.S. and the Australian dollars, the kiwi dropped to a 1-month low of 0.7074 and nearly a 2-week low of 1.0649 from last week's closing quotes of 0.7110 and 1.0590, respectively. If the kiwi extends its downtrend, it is likely to find support around 1.56 against the euro, 0.69 against the greenback and 1.08 against the aussie. 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.
BRUSSELS (dpa-AFX) - Japan's final industrial production data for September is due to be released in the Asian deals at 11:30 pm ET Monday. Ahead of the data, the yen fell against its major rivals. As of 11:25 am ET, the yen was trading at 115.96 against the euro, 134.87 against the pound, 108.32 against the Swiss franc and 107.41 against the U.S. dollar. 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.
New release supports global collaboration, open science and takes the guesswork out of journal submissions
PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --Clarivate Analytics, formerly the Intellectual Property & Science business of Thomson Reuters today announced the availability of EndNote' X8, the next iteration of the leading software for researchers, librarians and students to find, manage and create bibliographies, citations and references to research smarter.
Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160929/413983LOGO
Research collaboration has taken on a whole new meaning in the digital age. From 1998 through 2011, papers with 50 or more authors doubled in quantity from roughly 500 per year to more than 1,000. With research on the rise, the latest version of EndNote addresses this trend and enables researchers to work smarter to produce novel research no matter where their location. EndNote X8 now includes support to share an entire EndNote research library, including references, PDFs and annotations with up to 100 people. Collaborators can add to, annotate and cite from the shared library in real-time, with unlimited cloud storage at no additional cost. A built-in activity feed allows users to identify new members and to track the latest changes made to the library by their collaborators.
"Our goal is addressing the needs of the market and in particular the end users," said George Kowal, head of researcher solutions at Clarivate Analytics. "X8 does exactly this in support of enabling their research to move forward more effectively with enhanced collaboration."
With competition to get published at an all time high, delays due to mismanaged references are nonexistent when the right references are only a click away. EndNote keeps its users in step with the constantly evolving world of scholarly research and publishing by providing the ability to search, organize and share reference materials, as well as automatically format bibliographies, cutting down on the time spent collecting research and writing manuscripts, patent applications and grant proposals. In addition, with EndNote's manuscript matcher, users can reduce the risk of publication rejection by identifying journals where their research is most likely to be accepted based on an analysis of tens of millions of citation connections in Web of Science', a collection of meticulously indexed data from thousands of journals, across hundreds of global publishers.
"As the industry's premier reference management resource, EndNote plays an integral role in today's demanding research landscape and the shifting trends in multi-disciplinary and global research collaboration," said Jessica Turner, global head of government and academia at Clarivate Analytics. "With 4 million users from over 100,000 companies and academic institutions worldwide, we recognize the important part EndNote plays in the research process and remain fully committed to providing our customers with the best reference management solution for the future."
EndNote X8 is available for Mac and Windows and syncs seamlessly with EndNote online and the EndNote iPad application.
For more information on EndNote, or to request a free 30-day trial, visit: endnote.com/downloads/30-day-trial.
Learn more about Growing Together: Research Collaboration and Technology, on State of Innovation, and read the report that examines factors that have influenced the rise of collaboration, along with resources that can track and illuminate research partnerships across the globe.
Clarivate Analytics
Clarivate' Analytics accelerates the pace of innovation by providing trusted insights and analytics to customers around the world, enabling them to discover, protect and commercialize new ideas, faster. Formerly the Intellectual Property and Science business of Thomson Reuters, we've been assisting our customers for over 60 years. Now as an independent company with over 4,000 employees, operating in more than 100 countries around the world, we remain expert, objective and agile. For more information, please visit us at Clarivate.com.
To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/clarivate-analytics-advances-scientific-research-process-with-the-release-of-endnote-x8-300361841.html
Beginning on Tuesday, the City of Chattanoogas Household Hazardous Waste Facility will expand its hours to be open five days a week. The facility, located at 3925 N. Hawthorne St., will now be open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m.
Common acceptable items include:
Batteries
Computers
Fluorescent bulbs
Motor oil
Oil-based paint
Pesticides
Pool chemicals
Smoke alarms
For more information, call 311, or visit www.chattanooga.gov/recycling.
Distributed for Group Lease Public Company Limited by M T Multimedia Co., Ltd. Orn-anong ("Fah") Pattaravejkul Tel: +66-2-612-2081 # 129 Mobile: +66-86-884-4458 E-mail: ornanong.p@mtmultimedia.com Website: www.mtmultimedia.com
BANGKOK, Nov 14, 2016 - (ACN Newswire) - Thanks to continuous expansion of its growing regional businesses, SET-listed digital finance firm Group Lease Public Company Limited ("GL", SET:GL) has reported a new record-high net profit of 260.41 million baht for the third quarter ending September, which represents a whopping 73.29% increase from the same period last year.This marks the eight consecutive new quarterly record-high profits for GL, which prides itself as the first Thailand-based financial services company that has developed a highly efficient digital finance platform now being used to support its business expansion into Thailand's neighboring countries of CLMV plus Indonesia and Sri Lanka.GL Chairman and Chief Executive Mitsuji Konoshita noted that the Q3 profits would have been considerably higher at nearly 300 million baht if it had not been for one-time fees impact from several acquisitions.He added that these acquisitions - particularly the 29.99% stake GL acquired in Commercial Credit & Finance Plc (CCF), a leading and highly profitable finance firm listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange - will help raise GL's profits to substantially higher levels beginning in Q4.CCF has projected to make a full-year profit of US$24 million this year and GL will start booking its share of the profits in Q4 from its 29.99% stake.The chairman of GL's executive board Tatsuya Konoshita explained further that the Q3 profits were also dragged by about 40 million baht of interest expenses for a new batch of US$130 million convertible debentures (CDs) that were issued for subscription by GL's strategic partner in Indonesia, J Trust Asia (JTA).He said the results have shown improvement in all fronts, with the Cambodian operations continuing to be the star performer while the relatively new operations in Indonesia have, surprisingly, turned positive in this quarter.A rough breakdown of the Q3 profits shows the Cambodian operations (which combine the regular leasing of motorcycles and agricultural machineries plus loans to SME businesses) contributing the largest portion of about 130 million baht, followed by Thailand operations (about 100 million baht), plus another 15 million baht each from the Thai subsidiary Thanabun and GL Laos.On top of acquiring the 29.99% stake in the listed Sri Lankan finance firm CCF, GL is also mounting a full-scale expansion into Myanmar by taking over a micro-finance firm and partnering with local business tycoon U Aung Moe Kyaw, owner of Century Finance and the country's leading liquor group Myanmar Distillery, to expand into a broad range of other financial services.Raising more funds to support the company's aggressive regional expansion, it recently decided to issue additional CDs totaling US$70 million in private placement (PP) - comprising of US$50 million to be subscribed by its strategic partner JTA and another US$20 million for an affiliate in Sri Lanka, Creation Investments Sri Lanka (Creation SL). Carrying three-year maturity, the conversion price for these CDs is set at 70 baht per share.About Group Lease PCLGroup Lease Public Company Limited was established on 6th May 1986 and listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand in 2004 (SET:GL). The company has expertise in hire-purchase of motorcycles, as it has been in the motorcycle leasing business for over 20 years, with motorcycle brands for financing including Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki.In 2007, the APF group became the major shareholder holding around 65% of total shares. In 2012, GL announced a long-term business plan to become the leading finance company in the Southeast Asian region. To do so, GL formed Group Lease Holdings Pte. Ltd. (GLH), a Singapore holding company, as headquarters for its expansion in other countries. For more information, please visit www.grouplease.co.th.Source: Group Lease PCLContact:Copyright 2016 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.
DUBLIN, Nov. 14,2016 /PRNewswire/ --DocuSign announced today the opening of its Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence in Dublin as part of its ongoing commitment to Europe and protecting its customers' data and privacy. The Centre will be committed to conducting research into the latest cyberattacks and trends, while developing tools for the advanced detection of such threats.
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The project is supported by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise & Innovation through IDA Ireland.
A critical focus for the Centre within the next three years will be undertaking research and development into security orchestration and automation, which will directly inform advancements and innovation for DocuSign's security tools. As a result, the company's customers and employees will benefit from DocuSign's ability to respond even faster to rapidly evolving threats.
Welcoming the new investment by DocuSign, the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Mary Mitchell O'Connor TD said, "This new Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence will be a valued addition to Ireland's existing strengths in the ICT sector. We are very keen to attract a wider range of specialist IT companies, especially in Cybersecurity, as we are all very conscious of the crucial importance of being able to deal with Cybersecurity threats. It is great news that a company of the stature of DocuSign has decided to open this new facility here. We have the IT skills available to enable the company to grow and to embed their operations in Ireland. Their arrival is a great vote of confidence in what Ireland has to offer and I wish the team the very best for their future in Ireland."
"Our customers are committed to undertaking digital transformations which are underpinned by a high level of security and trust," commented Eoin Hinchy, director of Information Security at DocuSign. "This trust can only be built on a weight of cybersecurity intelligence and a culture of constant innovation that ensures their data is safeguarded. With the proliferation of cyberattacks continuing to grow every day, it is essential to stay ahead of these challenges and mitigate any risk. This is exactly what the research and development and the customised security tools from the Centre of Excellence will help us do."
Tapping further into the Irish talent pool as well as an array of security experts including analysts, developers and researchers from large institutions within both the public and private sectors, DocuSign's Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence will be pivotal to keeping DocuSign at the cutting edge of innovation in the cybersecurity field. Beyond further strengthening DocuSign's security offering, the initiative will also strengthen protection for the broader community as a result of bringing together the top minds in cybersecurity to develop tools and share intelligence.
Welcoming today's announcement Martin Shanahan CEO IDA Ireland said, "DocuSign's Cyber Security Centre of Excellence marks another important contribution to Ireland and to the continuous improvement of cyber security practices around the world. Ireland is becoming a leading location for companies, like DocuSign, dedicated to fighting cybercrime and other "next generation" threats. I wish Eoin and his team the continued support of IDA Ireland as it grows over the coming years."
The Centre of Excellence will play a significant role in maintaining and building upon the trust that more than 250,000 companies and more than 100 million users across 188 countries who put their trust in the DocuSign Global Trust Network to complete nearly one million transactions per day.
For more information on DocuSign, visit https://www.docusign.co.uk/
Contact:
Michael Creane/Mitch Lowes/Sara Chandran
docusign@madebychameleon.com
About DocuSign, Inc.
DocuSign is changing how business gets done by empowering anyone to send, sign and manage agreements anytime, anywhere, on any device with trust and confidence. DocuSign and Go to keep life and business moving forward.For more information, visit www.docusign.com, call +1-877-720-2040, or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.
Copyright 2003-2016. DocuSign, Inc. is the owner of DOCUSIGN and all of its other marks (www.docusign.com/IP). All other marks appearing herein are the property of their respective owners.
JSC VTB Bank / Miscellaneous - Medium Priority VTB Group announces IFRS results for 3Q 2016 (news with additional features) 14-Nov-2016 / 07:54 CET/CEST Dissemination of a Regulatory Announcement, transmitted by EquityStory.RS, LLC - a company of EQS Group AG. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. *VTB Group announces IFRS results for 3Q 2016* 14 November 2016 VTB Bank ('VTB' or 'the Bank'), the parent company of VTB Group ('the Group'), today publishes its Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements as at 30 September 2016, with the Independent Auditor's Report on Review of these Statements. Andrey Kostin, VTB President and Chairman of the Management Board, said: 'VTB Group delivered net profit of RUB 34 billion in 9M 2016, more than double the bottom-line result for 6M 2016. This steady improvement in profitability reflects the continued recovery in the Group's core revenue generation. 'Operational efficiency also played an important role in this strong set of numbers as we started to benefit from the synergies created by the merger of Bank of Moscow. We expect to achieve further synergies and greater efficiency going forward, following the recently-approved decision to merge VTB24 into VTB Bank. 'We are impressed by the development of Post Bank, with more than 3,600 offices opened in 1,075 localities covering 60 Russian regions in under one year. This rapid expansion is enabling us to significantly enhance the Group's retail franchise. 'VTB Capital remains Russia's go-to investment banking operation, with continued leadership across DCM, ECM and M&A league tables for the first nine months of the year. 'VTB Group as a whole continues to maintain a solid balance sheet and strong capital ratios, leaving us in an excellent position to support our clients across all sectors of the Russian economy.' *FINANCIAL AND OPERATING HIGHLIGHTS* *Income Statement* _RUB *9M 2016* *9M 2015* *Change, % * *3Q *3Q *Change billion_ 2016* 2015* , % * Net interest 310.4 196.0 58.4% 103.4 85.9 20.4% income Net fee and 55.9 54.0 3.5% 19.3 21.4 (9.8%) commissio n income Operating income before 361.1 293.8 22.9% 124.1 123.0 0.9% provision s Provision (146.7) (136.9) 7.2% (43.8) (57.0) (23.2%) charge* Staff costs and administr (171.6) (161.4) 6.3% (55.3) (55.6) (0.5%) ative expenses Net profit / 34.1 (10.9) - 18.7 6.2 201.6% (loss) _*Includes provision charge for impairment of debt financial assets and provision charge for impairment of other assets, credit related commitments and legal claims._ - Net profit in 9M 2016 was RUB 34.1 billion, supported by improved core revenue generation as net interest income and net fee and commission income continued to grow. - VTB Group net interest income increased by 58.4% year-on-year to RUB 310.4 billion in 9M 2016, as repricing of assets and liabilities supported a recovery in net interest margin to 3.7% for 9M 2016, up from 2.4% in 9M 2015. Net interest margin for 9M 2016 was unchanged from 6M 2016 at 3.7%. - The Group's Retail business and Transaction banking (as part of Corporate-Investment banking and Mid-Corporate banking) were the two main drivers of the 3.5% year-on-year growth in net fee and commission income to RUB 55.9 billion. - For 9M 2016, the Group's provision charge grew significantly slower than net interest income, increasing 7.2% year-on-year to RUB 146.7 billion. The Group's cost of risk, taking into account provisions for credit related commitments (the annualised ratio of the provision charge for loan impairments including provision charge for impairment of credit related commitments to average gross loans and average credit related commitments), was 1.9% in 9M 2016 compared to 1.8% in 9M 2015. - In 9M 2016 the Group benefitted from ongoing cost management efforts as well as synergies from the Bank of Moscow merger. Staff costs and administrative expenses for 9M 2016 amounted to RUB 171.6 billion, an increase of 6.3% year-on-year. After the end of the reporting period, on 2 November 2016, the VTB Supervisory Council voted to merge the Group's retail banking arm VTB24 into VTB Bank. This is expected to help the Group achieve significant cost reductions by optimising the structure of the Group's retail business in Russia and creating synergies from the merger of operations, including regional networks. - The Group's annualised costs-to-average assets ratio was 1.8% for 9M 2016, unchanged from 9M 2015, while the ratio of costs to operating income before provisions improved to 47.5% for 9M 2016 versus 54.9% for 9M 2015. *Statement of financial position* *30 Sep *30 Jun *31 Dec *Change in *Change in _RUB billion_ * 2016* 2015* 9M 2016, % 3Q 2016, % *2016* or p.p.* or p.p.* Total assets 12,359.2 12,333.5 13,641.9 (9.4%) 0.2% Loans and advances to customers, including 9,409.7 9,362.5 10,110.0 (6.9%) 0.5% pledged under repurchase agreements (gross) _Gross loans to legal 7,288.3 7,319.6 8,150.0 (10.6%) (0.4%) entities_ _Gross loans to 2,121.4 2,042.9 1,960.0 8.2% 3.8% individuals_ Customer 8,000.9 7,859.1 7,267.0 10.1% 1.8% deposits _Deposits from legal 5,077.3 5,009.0 4,383.6 15.8% 1.4% entities_ _Deposits from 2,923.6 2,850.1 2,883.4 1.4% 2.6% individuals_ NPL ratio 7.2% 7.1% 6.3% 0.9 p.p. 0.1 p.p. Tier 1 CAR 13.5% 13.3% 12.4% 1.1 p.p. 0.2 p.p. Total CAR 15.4% 15.1% 14.3% 1.1 p.p. 0.3 p.p. - The Group's loan book contracted by 6.9% during 9M 2016 due to a decline in loans to legal entities during the first quarter of 2016 that was driven by repayment of several large FX-denominated loans in 1Q 2016 as well as the strengthening of the Russian ruble in the period and the corresponding revaluation of loans denominated in US dollars and other currencies. In 3Q 2016, the loan book grew for the second quarter in a row, increasing 0.5% despite a 0.1% reduction overall for the Russian market during the same period. - Retail lending continued to gain momentum, as loans to individuals increased by 8.2% during 9M 2016 (up 3.8% in 3Q 2016), and stood at RUB 2,121.4 billion as of 30 September 2016. - The Group's NPL ratio was 7.2% of gross customer loans, including those pledged under repurchase agreements (the 'total loan book'), as of 30 September 2016, compared to 7.1% at 30 June 2016 and 6.3% as of 31 December 2015. The allowance for loan impairments was 7.5% of the total loan book as of the end of 3Q 2016, versus 7.4% on 30 June 2016 and 6.7% as of 31 December 2015. The NPL coverage ratio remained at a comfortable 102.9% at 30 September 2016, versus 103.9% as of 30 June 2016, and 105.8% as of 31 December 2015. - Customer deposits grew by 10.1% in 9M 2016, driven by 15.8% growth in corporate deposits during the period. Growing deposits helped to further improve the Group's balance sheet, with customer deposits representing 73% of total liabilities as of 30 September 2016, up from 60% at year-end 2015. As of 30 September 2016, the Group's market shares in Russia in retail and corporate deposits stood at 11.2% and 24.8%, respectively. - The Group continued to reduce its reliance on wholesale funding, with the share of debt securities issued in total liabilities decreasing to 3.9% as of 30 September 2016, down from 4.2% as of 30 June 2016 and 5.1% as of 31 December 2015. Since the beginning of 2016, VTB and its subsidiaries have made repayments on their international public debt totalling USD 2.2 billion. After the end of the reporting period, on 17 October 2016, VTB Bank launched an overnight bond programme on Moscow Exchange. The Group expects that this tool will have a positive impact on its borrowing costs in the future. - VTB maintained solid capital adequacy ratios. As of 30 September 2016, the Group's total and Tier 1 capital adequacy ratios were 15.4% and 13.5%, respectively, versus 15.1% and 13.3% as of 30 June 2016, and 14.3% and 12.4% as of 31 December 2015. *KEY BUSINESS SEGMENT HIGHLIGHTS* *VTB Group key segments in 9M 2016* _% of the *Corporate-Investment *Retail *Mid-Corporate Group banking * business* banking * total*_ Assets 44.8% 26.3% 5.3% Loans and advances to 61.5% 24.1% 7.5% customers (net) Customer 39.4% 43.3% 8.5% deposits Revenues from 47.9% 33.2% 6.9% external customers Net interest 25.8% 46.1% 8.3% income Net fee and commission 19.5% 65.0% 12.4% income Provision 38.7% 41.3% 17.4% charge** Net operating 28.9% 63.4% 3.3% income Staff costs and 25.4% 53.2% 9.1% administrati ve expenses _*Before intersegment eliminations_ _**Includes provision charge for impairment of debt financial assets and provision charge for impairment of other assets, credit related commitments and legal claims._ - Corporate-Investment banking (CIB) delivered RUB 11.8 billion of net profit in 9M 2016. The Retail business posted a positive net result of RUB 35.1 billion for the period. Conservative lending policies and a cautious business environment continued to put pressure on Mid-Corporate banking during 9M 2016. Net loss of Mid-Corporate banking for 9M 2016 was RUB 8.0 billion. - The loan book in the Retail business continued to grow in 9M 2016, primarily driven by mortgage lending and consumer loans. Mortgage lending growth in 9M 2016 was driven by increasing consumer activity and the
(MORE TO FOLLOW) Dow Jones Newswires
November 14, 2016 01:55 ET (06:55 GMT)
HKTDC Communication and Public Affairs Department Joe Kainz Tel: +852 2584 4216 Email: joe.kainz@hktdc.org
HONG KONG, Nov 14, 2016 - (ACN Newswire) - The HKTDC Hong Kong Optical Fair 2016 ended on a high note with a record number of buyers attending the three-day event. Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and co-organised by the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association, the fair's 24th edition drew more than 15,000 buyers from 100 countries and regions, up 2.4 per cent over the previous year. Buyers from several ASEAN and emerging markets recorded satisfactory growth, including Malaysia, the Philippines, Russia, Iran, Brazil and Mexico. The number of buyers from mature markets such as Canada, Australia, Korea, Spain and Sweden, also saw good growth, underscoring Hong Kong's position as a prime trading platform for the global eyewear industry."The total number of visitors to the fair increased this year, and there was satisfactory growth in the number of buyers from various countries," said Benjamin Chau, Deputy Executive Director, HKTDC. "This shows that the Hong Kong Optical Fair is essential for eyewear promotion and sourcing and continues to play an important role as a trading platform for the global eyewear industry. The trading atmosphere was very good at the fairground. Buyers eagerly sought the latest eyewear designs, products and equipment."Brand Name Gallery spotlights 3D printing and high-tech eyewearThis year's Brand Name Gallery featured more than 220 international brands and designer collections. Among the dazzling array of fashionable eyewear were high-tech eyewear and eye-care products, which were once again highlights of the show.3D printing is becoming a new wave in the eyewear industry. Hong Kong exhibitor Chang's Optical Asia Ltd featured ic! berlin's 3D-printed, special edition sunglasses at the fair. The sunglasses were created to mark ic! berlin's 20th anniversary. The company, which is also the distributor for 10 top designer brands such as DITA and Orgreen, also featured wooden spectacles from Italian brand FEB31st, which allow consumers to customise their frames by adding their names, signatures, graphics and words on the side. "Mainland consumers like personalised eyewear products," said Mabel Sze, the company's Brand Manager. "With buyers coming from all over the world, the Optical Fair provides an excellent trading platform for us to introduce high-end, distinctive eyewear products and build our brand."Korean brand Sodamon, which won the Good Design Award in Korea and Australia, brought its Fugu sunglasses collection, made with lightweight materials that allow the sunglasses to float in water. With a business presence spanning Asia, Europe and North America, this exhibitor joined the fair for the first time with a view to expanding into the mainland market. Justin Cha, Sodamon's manager of foreign division, considered Hong Kong an important gateway to the Asian and international markets. On the fair's first day, Mr Cha found potential buyers from the Philippines and Taiwan, where they planned to bring Sodamon's products to local department stores.Spanish company Eyewear From Barcelona SL debuted at the Optical Fair last year and successfully promoted its designs to the mainland, India and several other Asian markets. The returning exhibitor doubled the size of its booth this year. It met many mainland buyers and was actively seeking distributors in Indonesia and Thailand.Record exhibitor attendanceThis year's Optical Fair gathered a record of more than 780 exhibitors from 29 countries and regions. The Chinese mainland, France, Italy, Japan, Korea and Taiwan set up group pavilions to showcase stylish eyewear products. Among them, one of the exhibitors from the French pavilion, Oxibis Group, is the designer, manufacturer and distributor of various brands that are represented in 35 countries and regions. General Manager Jerome Colin and Area Export Manager Julien Daubry hailed the fair as the best in Asia. Their existing Asian distributors were at the fair and the company is also looking for new distributors who are active in other markets. They will participate in the fair next year too.To cater to growing demand for protection against harmful blue light emitted from digital devices, especially for youngsters, many relevant products were featured at the fair. Swiss Lens Laboratory (HK) Limited has launched the Amour 420 SF lenses and sales professional consultant Michael Fung said they had received numerous enquiries from buyers. "The Hong Kong Optical Fair provides an important platform for us to launch new lenses and collect customer feedback. By demonstrating the effects of our new lenses at our booth, we have received positive responses from customers all over the world and reaped onsite orders. This year we have got more enquiries from North Africa and the Middle East."Vibrant eyewear marketIranian buyer Star Optical's Chairman Reza Shamsababdi visited the Hong Kong fair to source the latest eyewear products. With a population of 80 million, he said, Iran is a huge market for the eyewear industry, estimating that nearly half of the country's population wear sunglasses. On the first day of the event, the company placed approximately HK$150,000 worth of orders with suppliers from the mainland, Korea and Taiwan.Optica Next operates 12 shops in Russia. Company President Alexander Golubkov said Russian consumers favour classic styles and dark colours. He was happy to have found some potential frames and sunglasses suppliers from the mainland, Hong Kong and Europe.Optical Korea Co., Ltd from Korea sells various eyewear products online. Company Vice President Hyun-mo Jung said the HKTDC's business matching service helped the company find two potential suppliers of plastic frames. The company planned to buy 4,000 pairs in assorted colours and styles from each supplier. "The Hong Kong Optical Fair is the best place for the industry to source new products that are good quality and of competitive price. I can easily find styles that meet the tastes of Korean consumers."The HKTDC organised a number of eyewear parades, buyer forums, seminars and networking cocktails during the fair to help industry professionals expand their networks. The 14th Hong Kong Optometric Conference was held on 10 November, with the theme "Advancement in Ophthalmic Treatments", attracting about 900 participants.Fair website: http://hkopticalfair.hktdc.com/Photo download: http://bit.ly/2g9s3gRTo view press releases in Chinese, please visit http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/tcAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. The HKTDC is the international marketing arm for Hong Kong-based traders, manufacturers and services providers. With more than 40 offices globally, including 13 on the Chinese mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a platform for doing business with China and throughout Asia. The HKTDC also organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to provide companies, particularly SMEs, with business opportunities on the mainland and in overseas markets, while providing information via trade publications, research reports and digital channels including the media room. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Google+, Twitter @hktdc, LinkedIn.Google+: https://plus.google.com/+hktdcTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/hktdcLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/hong-kong-trade-development-councilSource: HKTDCContact:Copyright 2016 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.
PARIS (dpa-AFX) - AXA (AXAHY.PK) announced it has entered into an agreement with Marsh to sell Bluefin Insurance Group Ltd, its P&C commercial broker in the UK. The price for the disposal would amount to 295 million pounds or 340 million euros. AXA said the proposed transaction should generate a negative exceptional P&L impact of 66 million euros, which would be accounted for in net income. Bluefin is a leading insurance broker, providing services to private individuals, small businesses, and large corporates in the UK, employing approximately 1,500 colleagues based in 45 locations. 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.
GALWAY, Ireland, November 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --
With a substantial growth of 19 percent in visitor numbers and a fully booked exhibition area, Medtec Ireland closed its gates on 5 October, 2016.
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With this, the B2B trade show with the longest tradition in Ireland, was able to confirm its position as independent satellite of Europe's leading trade show of the medical device industry, Medtec Europe in Stuttgart.
This year's event focused strongly on innovations, support mechanisms for start up companies and on vivid international exchange. This approach to display latest product innovations and solutions along the entire supply and production chain of medical devices resulted in a diverse range of international exhibitors and attendees.
Most foreign exhibitors and visitors were from Germany, Canada and France, but decision makers from Russia and Libya were also present.
Not least as a result of the fact, that the organizer UBM has completed its marketing team with German, English and French native speakers.
As expected, one of the main topics discussed was how the industry will react on the challenges induced by Brexit and on its influence on the British and Irish Medtec market.
Anne Schumacher, Brand Director Medtec concludes, "The special path that we are following with Medtec Ireland within our portfolio, of course received some tailwind by the recent developments in the British economic region. Excellent re-booking figures for next year's event give us an indication of the boost we are receiving in the aftermath of Brexit."
"Apart from that, the two European trade shows feed each other. In 2016, we have registered 31% more visitors from UK and 29% more visitors from Ireland. This effect is visible in the opposite direction as well," Schumacher concludes.
German engineering companies like Kiefel GmbH, Koerting Nachf. Wilhelm Steeger GmbH & Co. KG and ET Elastomer Technik GmbH were part of this year's exhibition in Galway.
"All eyes on Stuttgart now" was the message at the end of this year's Medtec Ireland.
After successfully conducting Medtec Ireland, UBM now is looking forward to the 16th Medtec Europe, to be held 4-6 October, 2017 in Stuttgart.
And the European Medical Technology flagship already promises to be the largest Medtec Europe ever conducted.
Most certainly as a result of the geographical expansion is the increased number of many companies from European core markets such as Germany, Italy, France, Switzerland and the UK, exhibiting at Medtec 2017 for the first time, next to exhibitors from emerging markets like Russia and Tunisia.
Apart from reaching out internationally, the continuous growth and diversification of the provided content is a vital part of the Medtec strategy.
The clear focus lies on innovations in medical devices and solutions.
Aside from features like the Innovation Tours, the organizer has further developed and expanded the "Start-Up Academy", a competition for young innovative Medtec companies.
The Start-Up Academy winner benefits from free exhibition space, 2000 Euro and a mentoring program.
Medtec Europe is known as the "trade show with the personal added value" and this concept will be endorsed even more dedicatedly with the coming show.For three days, Medtec offers a comprehensive educational agenda, developed in close corporation with leading German institutions and partners, such as VDMA. Especially for engineers in R&D and automation can use their time efficiently between education, networking and business generation.
Read more here: http://www.medteceurope.com/europe/de/bildung
UBM EMEA
UBM EMEA connects people and creates opportunities for companies across five continents to develop new business, meet customers, launch newproducts,promote their brands and expand their markets. Through premier brandssuch as Medtec, CPhI, IFSEC, Ecobuild, Seatrade, and many others, UBM EMEA exhibitions, conferences, awards programs, publications, websites and training andcertificationprograms are an integral part of the marketing plans of companies across seven industry sectors.
UBM EMEA is committed to the continual improvement of sustainability
To ensure long-term profitability, UBM EMEA aims to be a leader in sustainable business, aligning all key business decisions with our sustainability strategy. UBM EMEA sees it as fundamental that we are conscious of the impact that our actions have on the environment and the communities in which we operate. UBM EMEA strives to manage its impact by ensuring that the principles of sustainability are at the core of all our activities. A corner stone to our journey towards sustainability is our certification to the ISO 20121 Sustainable Event Management System. UBM EMEA is one of the first major organisers to successfully implement and certify our sustainable event management system against the International Standard ISO 20121.
Medtec Europe
Medtec Europe is one of the leading B2B trade shows for medical devices and components in Europe, providing direct access to newest medical technologies and solutions along the entire supply chain of medical device development and production.
Excellent learning opportunities and diverse possibilities for matchmaking and networking within and between the different segments complement the Medtec Experience and draw over 6500 visitors and over 600 exhibitors from 64 countries each year.
Medtec Europe, is going to be held for the 16th time, from April 4-6 2017 in Stuttgart, Germany.
READING, United Kingdom, 2016-12-02 14:00 CET (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bottomline Technologies (NASDAQ:EPAY), a leading provider of financial technology which helps businesses pay and get paid, today announced an important win at this year's Banking Technology Awards ceremony.The Bottomline Universal Aggregator was recognised with the award for the Best Instant Payment Service Initiative. A highly secure, fully outsourced, multi-payment channel platform, it supports the recently accredited Faster Payment Service.Designed to give banks, corporates, governments and non-financial banking institutions an easy plug-in to an array of payment clearing and settlement systems around the world, this unique service helps decrease operational risk, improve compliance and cut costs and inefficiencies.Ed Adshead-Grant, General Manager, Payments & Cash Management, Bottomline Technologies said "We're honoured to have been acknowledged with this prestigious recognition. But the real winners are our customers. They've made an informed choice in adopting the Universal Aggregator and we're proud to provide them with a quick, easy and affordable way to directly access the various UK payment schemes."Now in its 17th year, the Banking Technology Awards mark the highest level of professional and commercial achievement in deploying and exploiting all forms of IT in financial services. Considered the premier event for recognising technology innovation in banking and financial services, the awards are selected by an expert judging panel that has a justifiable reputation for their independence and rigour.About Bottomline Technologies Bottomline Technologies (NASDAQ:EPAY) helps businesses pay and get paid. We make complex business payments simple, secure and seamless. Businesses and banks rely on Bottomline for domestic and international payments, effective cash management tools, automated workflows for payment processing and bill review and state of the art fraud detection, behavioural analytics and regulatory compliance. Headquartered in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, we delight our customers through offices across the United States, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Businesses around the world depend on Bottomline solutions to help them pay and get paid, including some of the world's largest systemic banks, private and publicly traded companies and Insurers. Every day, we help our customers by making complex business payments simple, secure and seamless. For more information, visit www.bottomline.com.Bottomline Technologies and the Bottomline Technologies logo are trademarks of Bottomline Technologies, Inc. which may be registered in certain jurisdictions. All other brand/product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.Contact for Media:Henry Goodwin (001) 603.501.5311 henry.goodwin@bottomline.com
TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 11/18/16 -- Kirkland Lake Gold Inc. ("Kirkland Lake Gold") (TSX: KLG) would like to thank shareholders for their support of the proposed business combination with Newmarket Gold Inc. ("Newmarket") and reminds those shareholders that haven't yet voted, to vote FOR the Newmarket transaction before 10:00 a.m. (Toronto time) on November 23, 2016.
"We thank shareholders who have already voted in favour of the Newmarket transaction and remind those who haven't that your vote matters regardless of how many shares you own. Kirkland Lake Gold's business combination with Newmarket is about more than just the combination of two assets, it is about leveraging the combined technical expertise, cash flow and financial strength over the long term. We believe this combination will result in an improved market presence and positions the combined company as a new low-cost, mid-tier producer that provides a compelling value proposition for shareholders," said Tony Makuch, President and CEO of Kirkland Lake Gold.
The Newmarket Merger is Best for Long-Term Value Creation
The business combination between Kirkland Lake Gold and Newmarket is the only offer before shareholders. The Company believes that it presents a clear and compelling opportunity to create sustainable long-term growth which will result in increased shareholder value for Kirkland Lake Gold shareholders. Key benefits for shareholders include:
-- Creation of a new low-cost, diversified mid-tier gold producer. The business combination with Newmarket is anticipated to result in the creation of a larger, more diversified company with a portfolio of high- quality assets including 7 mines and 5 mills, all located in stable, mining friendly jurisdictions. The pro forma company is expected to produce over 500,000 ounces of gold in 2016. The increased and diversified production profile in conjunction with the aggregated reserves of the combined company should provide shareholders with enhanced leverage to the price of gold. -- Attractive production profile anchored by three high-grade, low-cost operations. The combined company is expected to have a significant and growing gold production profile. Production will be anchored by the Macassa, Fosterville and Taylor mines. Combined production in 2016 from these three mines alone is expected to be over 330,000 ounces, with cash costs of under US$600/oz and AISC below US$800/oz. -- Driving growth in two world class mining jurisdictions. The combined company will be well positioned for sustainable growth through exploration potential in underexplored, well established gold camps in Australia and Canada. The combination creates a second operating platform to further evaluate growth opportunities in another stable mining jurisdiction supported by a strengthened balance sheet. The expected cash flow generation of the combined company can support accelerated exploration, development and/or investments to increase production. -- Stronger financial position. The combined company will have a stronger financial position and greater cash resources than Kirkland Lake Gold alone. Based on Q3, 2016 financial reporting for the nine months ending September 30, 2016, on a pro forma basis Newmarket and Kirkland Lake Gold have a combined cash position of approximately $320 million and the combined company is expected to generate significant free cash flow, which will provide greater financial strength and flexibility. In addition, the combined company will have the ability to cross pollinate best practices to drive cost savings across its portfolio.
In addition, shareholders are reminded that the leading independent proxy advisory firms, Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. and Glass, Lewis & Co., LLC, reaffirmed their recommendations that shareholders of Kirkland Lake Gold vote in favour of the proposed business combination with Newmarket.
How To Vote
Kirkland Lake Gold shareholders with questions or that need help with voting are encouraged to contact Kingsdale Shareholder Services at 1-877-659-1824 toll-free within North America, or 1-416-867-2272 (for collect calls outside North America), or e-mail at contactus@kingsdaleshareholder.com. Shareholders must vote their proxies before 10:00 a.m. (Toronto time) on November 23, 2016.
About Kirkland Lake Gold Inc.
Kirkland Lake Gold is a Canadian focused, intermediate gold producer with assets in the historic Kirkland Lake gold camp, and east of the Timmins gold camp along the Porcupine-Destor Fault Zone, both in northeastern Ontario. The company is currently targeting annual gold production of between 280,000 to 290,000 ounces from its cornerstone asset, the Macassa Mine Complex and the Holt Mine Complex which includes the Holt, Holloway and Taylor mines.
The company is committed to building a sustainable mining company that is recognized as a safe and responsible gold producer with quality assets in safe mining jurisdictions.
The Toronto Stock Exchange has neither reviewed nor accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information
This press release contains statements which constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of Kirkland Lake Gold with respect to future business activities and operating performance. Forward-looking information is often identified by the words "may", "would", "could", "should", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" or similar expressions and include information regarding: (i) expectations regarding whether the proposed transaction with Newmarket will be consummated, including whether conditions to the consummation of the transaction will be satisfied, or the timing for completing the transaction, (ii) expectations for the effects of the transaction or the ability of the combined company to successfully achieve business objectives, including integrating the companies or the effects of unexpected costs, liabilities or delays, (iii) the potential benefits and synergies of the transaction with Newmarket and (iv) expectations for other economic, business, and/or competitive factors.
Investors are cautioned that forward-looking information is not based on historical facts but instead reflect Kirkland Lake Gold's management's expectations, estimates or projections concerning future results or events based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made. Although Kirkland Lake Gold believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, such information involves risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on such information, as unknown or unpredictable factors could have material adverse effects on future results, performance or achievements of the combined company. Among the key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information are the following: the ability to consummate the transaction with Newmarket; the ability to obtain requisite regulatory and shareholder approvals and the satisfaction of other conditions to the consummation of the transaction on the proposed terms and schedule; the ability of Kirkland Lake Gold and Newmarket to successfully integrate their respective operations and employees and realize synergies and cost savings at the times, and to the extent, anticipated; the potential impact on exploration activities; the potential impact of the announcement or consummation of the transaction on relationships, including with regulatory bodies, employees, suppliers, customers and competitors; the re-rating potential following the consummation of the transaction; changes in general economic, business and political conditions, including changes in the financial markets; changes in applicable laws; compliance with extensive government regulation; and the diversion of management time on the transaction. This forward-looking information may be affected by risks and uncertainties in the business of Kirkland Lake Gold and market conditions. This information is qualified in its entirety by cautionary statements and risk factor disclosure contained in filings made by Kirkland Lake Gold with the Canadian securities regulators, including Kirkland Lake Gold's annual information form, financial statements and related MD&A for the financial year ended December 31, 2015 and its interim financial reports and related MD&A for the period ended September 30, 2016 filed with the securities regulatory authorities in certain provinces of Canada and available at www.sedar.com.
Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although Kirkland Lake Gold has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Kirkland Lake Gold does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information except as otherwise required by applicable law.
Contacts:
Media:
Ian Robertson
Kingsdale Shareholder Services
Executive Vice President, Communication Strategy
Direct: +1 416-867-2333; Mobile: +1 647-621-2646
irobertson@kingsdaleshareholder.com
Investors:
Suzette N Ramcharan, CPIR
Kirkland Lake Gold Inc.
Director of Investor Relations
Direct: +1 647-361-0200; Mobile: +1 647-284-5315
sramcharan@klgold.com
BOSTON, MA -- (Marketwired) -- 11/14/16 -- Burns & Levinson partner Robert J. O'Regan won a major appellate victory as the conservator for Alice Migell whose nearly $5 million estate was pilfered by one of her sons. The November 2, 2016 decision by the Massachusetts Appeals Court upheld judgments from Middlesex Probate and Family Court, that returned real estate and approximate sale proceeds that the son kept after selling real estate from a trust. The decision also upheld criminal contempt convictions against the son and his wife, Andrew and Kai Sun Migell, for their transferring assets to put them out of reach to satisfy what was owed. The Appeals Court will also require the son and his wife to pay O'Regan's legal fees.
The original lawsuit was filed in 2009 after O'Regan was appointed as Alice Migell's guardian. O'Regan recovered real estate valued in excess of $2 million in addition to approximately $400,000 that Andrew Migell kept from selling the trust's real estate. The returned property included a vacation home in Hull, a house in Wayland, and rental property. An investigation revealed, and an earlier judgment against them determined that Andrew and Kai Sun Migell worked to take for themselves virtually all of the assets that Mrs. Migell had, either in her own name or as her inheritance following the death of her husband to whom she had been married for over 40 years.
The Probate and Family Court ruled in 2013 that Andrew and Kai Sun Migell had orchestrated a "continuous, willful campaign of fraudulent, obstructionist behavior designed to separate Mrs. Migell from her assets which should have been available to cover the costs of her 24-hour care necessary for the preservation of her mental and physical well-being."
In 2013, the Probate and Family Court also ordered Andrew and Kai Sun Migell to pay $512,680 in attorneys' costs that Mrs. Migell incurred to recover her own property and to defend against their attempts to impoverish her after they "set out on a ruthless campaign to totally and utterly deprive his elderly, ailing and recently widowed mother of her entire estate." The Appeals Court had upheld this decision in 2014.
"This was one of the worst cases of elder abuse that I have seen in over 30 years of practicing law. Alice Migell was 83 years old and suffering from dementia when we went to trial to regain control of the assets she needs to live the rest of her time with dignity and comfort," said O'Regan. "I feel fortunate to have been able to serve the Court and to help Mrs. Migell recover her funds and property. I hope this case sends a message that exploitation of the elderly and infirm will not be tolerated. Anyone who takes advantage of the most vulnerable people in society should be held accountable for the harm they cause. That is what this Appeals Court decision stands for."
About Burns & Levinson LLP
Burns & Levinson is a full-service law firm with more than 125 attorneys based in Boston, with additional offices in Providence and New York, as well as in the Merrimack Valley/North Shore, Metrowest and South Shore areas of Massachusetts. The firm has grown steadily and strategically throughout the years and has become a premier law firm with regional, national and international clientele. The firm has expertise in corporate law, finance, venture capital, private equity, intellectual property, labor and employment, tax, bankruptcy, real estate, design and construction, public-private partnerships, energy, environmental, business litigation, government investigations and white collar crime defense, and a large private client group, including estate planning, probate and trust litigation, divorce and other family law issues. In addition, the firm has a wholly owned subsidiary office in Montreal, Quebec, to service its Canadian clients. For more information, visit Burns & Levinson at www.burnslev.com.
Image Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=3079982
Contact:
Amy Blumenthal
Blumenthal & Associates
617.879.1511
amyb@blumenthalpr.com
Kristen Weller
Director of Marketing & Communications
617.345.3555
kweller@burnslev.com
MONTREAL, QUEBEC -- (Marketwired) -- 11/14/16 -- GFK Resources Inc. (the "Company" or "GFK") - (TSX VENTURE: GFK), is pleased to announce that the fall trenching program on the Kellar Lake showing area was successful and has returned encouraging gold grades. A new gold bearing vein was identified, which brings the total to three gold bearing structures in the Kellar Lake showing area, highlighting a possible new stacked NNE gold bearing fault system with associated conjugate EW gold bearing structures. The 2016 work program was designed to expand the historical work and locate new veins. Mechanical stripping was carried out over vein No-1 to expose the maximum length of the vein. Over 460 metres of strike length was stripped and the structure remains open in all directions. The vein varied in width from 0.5 to over 3.6 metres including the mineralised and silicified contact zone. The vein strikes NNE-SSW and dips to the east at approximately 75 degrees. Channel samples were taken at 5.0 metre intervals across the mineralised zone, where ever possible. The full width of the zone was not always accessible for channel sampling. The following table is a summary of the best individual or composite assay results from over 139 channel totaling 310 individual samples oriented perpendicular to strike:
Vein No-1
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Weighted Avg Extent Zone Channel # g/t Au Length m Sampled ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11 3.16 0.59 Partial ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12 6.45 0.29 Partial ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25 17.96 0.93 Full ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 35 3.01 1.30 Full ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 37 4.78 0.89 Full ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 41 9.07 0.63 Partial ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 53 2.58 2.07 Full ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 55 3.31 2.61 Partial ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 57 5.58 0.62 Partial ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 58 2.05 1.66 Full ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 62 3.62 1.58 Full ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 65 2.68 1.88 Partial ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 67 6.19 1.36 Partial ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 68 7.73 0.76 Partial ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 73 4.89 1.63 Partial ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 104 3.94 1.17 Partial ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 112 4.74 3.59 Full ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Complete assay results table, location maps and detailed trenches maps can be found at the links indicated at the end of the release.
Vein No-1 and structure was lost both to the north and south due to thick overburden, however the historical IP survey carried out on lines 800 feet apart did show continuity and other parallel similar anomalies.
Vein No-2 is located 480 metres to the SW from the end of the trench on No-1 vein and was discovered during early exploration programmes in the area. It strikes NE-SW and was exposed in the past over a length over 100 metres. The vein varies in width from 5 to 50 centimetres. According to historical reports from SIGEOM public database, chip samples taken by Meston Lake Resources in 1980 along strike returned values ranging from 1.0 to 81.0 g/t Au. Thick overburden prevented early explorers from following this trend along strike. In 2016, no work was done on this vein due to an early snowfall. However, follow-up exploration will be done on this vein during the next phase of the exploration program.
Vein No-3 is a new gold bearing E-W vein discovered during the fall trenching program. It was discovered in a small exploration trench located 60.0 metres to the east of vein No-1. The vein was exposed over a length of 15 metres. Late in the program a small hand-dug trench located another exposure of this vein 60.0 metres further east for a total estimated length of 120 metres. The vein continues to the east however thick overburden and an early heavy snowfall ended the work program at this time. Further mechanical stripping will be done on this new vein. The following table gives the results of the preliminary channel/chip sampling done on this vein.
Vein No-3
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Weighted Avg Extent Zone Channel # g/t Au Length m Sampled ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 139 5.41 1.04 Full ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 135 3.66 0.54 Full ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 137 1.74 0.73 Full ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
The discovery of a new gold bearing vein during preliminary exploration work on the Kellar Lake showing and the consistent significant grades returned so far justified the commissioning of a detailed IP survey to define the extent of the known veins and find new ones. Next phase will include trenching and diamond drilling.
HISTORY OF THE KELLAR SHOWING
Kellar Vein No-1 was discovered in 1936 by George E. Kellar a prospector working for Prospector Airways. They reported finding visible gold and traced the vein by digging small pits for a distance of 1,600 feet. Work was abandoned due to the project's remoteness at the time. However, work resumed on the property after a road was built to Chibougamau to service the mines in the area. The property became accessible by a short float plane flight from a base at Cache Lake. According to historical reports from SIGEOM public database, in the early fifties, several pits were cleaned and resampled which returned grab sample results varying from 3.4 to 23.8 g/t Au. A small portable drill was then brought-in to test the vein at depth. A number of companies returned over the years to resample the old trenches reporting similar results. This was then followed by a wide spaced IP survey that was carried out over the main showing area. It identified the No-1 vein structure and several other parallel anomalies which may indicate a stacked vein system. A limited drilling program with small core diameter tested the coincident IP anomaly / Vein No-1 structure in the early eighties with mitigated results. No further work was reported on this showing since.
Grizzly is a gold property which consists of 136 mining claims covering an area of 7,371 hectares located approximately 35 kilometers northwest of the town of Chapais. The area is underlain by rocks of Archean age of the Gilman and La Treve formations. The property contains more than 10 historical gold showings and occurrences associated with EW and NNE trends with grades varying from 1 g/t to up to 46 g/t. Very limited exploration work such as basic prospecting, mechanical trenching and shallow drilling was done over the property.
Samples collected during the 2016 fall exploration programme were dispatched from Chibougamau to Accurassay's Rouyn-Noranda Laboartory for processing. Standard and blank QA-QC samples were introduced in the sample series at regular intervals in the field. All samples were processed according to Accurassay's internal quality control procedures. They were analysed following standard pyro-analyses technics "Fire Assay-Atomic Absorption". Samples which returned values equal or greater than 10.0 g/t were reanalysed by gravimetric method.
GFK fulfilled the asset purchase agreement between Probe Metals Inc. and GFK Resources Inc, dated July 19, 2016, by paying an amount of $100,000 to Probe Metals Inc. as a final good standing payment required there. GFK also completed the acquisition of a 100% ownership in three properties, Vezza, Vezza North and Bachelor Extension properties, in exchange for 3,000,000 common shares of GFK. Probe Metals Inc. kept a 2% net smelter returns (NSR) on all 3 properties; half of that royalty (1%) can be bought back at any time by GFK, at its sole discretion, for an amount of $1,000,000.
Mr. Louis Morin, CEO, states: "GFK is committed at exploring for gold within high potential discovery areas. We are very pleased by those initial results, generated from those quality properties recently added within our portfolio. We are optimistic about the results we obtained. Those provide a strong incentive to continue our work program within those areas."
Mr. Tony Brisson, B.Sc., P.Geo. is acting as qualified person (as defined by NI 43-101) for GFK and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this press release.
About GFK Resources Inc.
GFK Resources Inc. is a mining exploration company focused on discovering high quality gold deposits within strategically located properties within proven mining camps, sometimes close to existing mines in the Abitibi Greenstone Belt located in north-west Quebec and north-east Ontario - one of the most prolific gold deposits areas in the world. GFK holds assets in Val-d'Or and Chibougamau areas. GFK acquired quality assets along the Casa-Berardi-Cameron Gold Break - a proven environment with strong potential for new gold discoveries and where exploration costs are low. Casa-Cameron properties are adjacent to Bachelor Gold Mine and Vezza Gold Mine. More recently, GFK acquired new properties, all easily accessible by a good road network: Fecteau property, located in the active Urban-Barry townsip, Winwin property, located in the neighbourhood of Iamgold/Tomagold Monster Lake property and Grizzly property, located in Chibougamau mining camp.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information may include, among others, statements regarding the future plans, costs, objectives or performance of GFK, or the assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. In this news release, words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "likely", "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "plan", "estimate" and similar words and the negative form thereof are used to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether, or the times at or by which, such future performance will be achieved. No assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking information will transpire or occur, including the development of the Grizzly Property, or if any of them do so, what benefits GFK will derive. Forward-looking information are based on information available at the time and/or management's good-faith belief with respect to future events and are subject to known or unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond GFK Resources Inc.' control. These risks, uncertainties and assumptions include, but are not limited to, those described under "Risk Factors" in GFK's management discussion and analysis for the year ended August 31, 2015, a copy of which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, and could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements. GFK does not intend, nor does GFK undertake any obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking information contained in this news release to reflect subsequent information, events or circumstances or otherwise, except if required by applicable laws.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
To view the figures associated with this press release, please visit the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/GFK-Release-Figures.pdf.
To view the data table associated with this press release, please visit the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/Table_1_Kellar_channels.pdf.
Contacts:
GFK Resources Inc.
Mr. Louis Morin
CEO
(514) 591-3988
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Jasper Highlands, the residential mountain top community in Kimball, Tn., has improved its Public Protection Classification rating to the best in Marion County, Class 4, over the course of only eight months. The new rating is a drastic improvement from the previous rating of Class 10 which the newly-formed volunteer fire department inherited due to nearby departments electing to no longer cover the mountain.
The volunteer Jasper Highlands Fire Department went through an evaluation with the Insurance Services Office in order to review and update the fire districts applicable classification rating. This improvement could translate into lower insurance rates of up to 70% for residents of Jasper Highlands. The JHFD is proud that they have also implemented the first team of EMS responders in the county through their dedicated team of volunteers.
This team has put in over 1,000 hours of training led by James Wessel and Lowell Hardin, who together have more than 50 years of experience in fire service, said John Thornton, owner and developer of Jasper Highlands and CEO of Thunder Enterprises. We strive to offer our community the best of the best in every respect, and we are proud to have an extremely strong team of volunteers led by Chief John Roth to protect our residents, and also provide a substantial amount of savings for home owners through insurance reductions because of our excellent ISO rating of 4/4x.
Last year, the Foster Falls Volunteer Fire Department voted not to cover Jasper Highlands; however, Thornton contracted with James Wessel, founder and President of Brindlee Mountain Fire Apparatus in Huntsville, who began scouting for dedicated team members and purchasing top-of-the-line trucks and equipment for the development. The newly-appointed Public Protection Classification rating is a reflection of the dedication to service, and commitment to the Jasper Highlands community. According to reports from December 2015, only 80 fire departments out of 921 in the state of Tennessee have a better rating on a 10-1 scale than Jasper Highlands. The majority of fire departments scored between Class 5 and Class 9 in 2015.
From start up to a Class 4 is unheard of and is a direct testament to Thornton, the development and the volunteers who selflessly put in hours upon hours of their own time to train and serve, said James F. Wessel, president of Jasper Highlands Fire Department. The benefit of Jasper Highlands new rating goes directly back to the community. Achieving a Class 4 rating confirms that together we have made this a great fire department.
When reviewing, the ISO takes into account water supply, fire prevention tactics, equipment, training and personnel, and the organization judges against a national standard. For more information about the JHFD and Jasper Highlands, visit TNLand.com.
The European Magazine Business Awards 2016 Recipients
Award Recipients Category
Abdul Rahman Law Corporation Shariah Compliant Law Firm of the Year - Singapore
African Open Sky Private Aviation Company of the Year - Africa
Akerton Partners Financial Advisory Firm of the Year - Spain
Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait K.S.C.P Retail Bank of the Year - Kuwait
Alea Global Group Advisory Firm of the Year - Kuwait
Alinma Bank Shariah Compliant Bank of the Year - Saudi Arabia
Alshamel Travel Corporate Travel Company of the Year - MENA
Amlac Islamic Finance Firm of the Year - Dubai
Apex Insurance Reinsurance Company of the Year- MENA
Argon Asset Management Asset Management Company of the Year - Africa
Asia Green Development Bank Ltd International Bank of the Year - South East Asia
Asia Plantation Capital Forestry Investment Company of the Year
Avanzia Taxand Tax Firm of the Year - Malta
AvaTrade Best Affliate Program, Best Broker
Awraq Investments Fund Management Company of the Year - Jordan
BAF Latam Trade Finance Fund Agriculture Fund of the Year - LATAM
Banca March Private Bank of the Year - Europe
Banco Finantia Investment Bank of the Year - Portugal
Banco Interacciones Financial Institution of the Year - Mexico
Banco Privado Atlantico Europa Innovative Bank of the Year - Europe
Banque Marocaine du Commerce Exterieur S.A. Bank of the Year - Morocco
Barents Re Reinsurance Company, Inc. Bond Reinsurer of the Year - Europe, Reinsurance Company of the Year - LATAM
BCI Mozambique Bank of the Year - Mozambique
Bee'ah Environmental Management Company of the Year - MENA
Blom Bank S.A.L. Bank of the Year - Lebanon, Corporate Bank of the Year - MENA
Capital Alliance Investment Bank of the Year - Sri Lanka
Capital Trust Limited Real Estate Company of the Year - Sri Lanka
Carlisle Management Company SCA Fund Management Company of the Year - Luxembourg
Chevez, Ruiz, Zamarripa y Cia., SC Tax Firm of the Year - Mexico
CHL Capital Fund Management Company of the Year - Chile
Colfondos S.A. Pensiones y Cesantias Pension Fund of the Year - Colombia
Compagnie Monegasque de Banque (CMB) Customer Service Private Bank of the Year - Monaco
Corporacion Financiera Alba Corporate Governance Company of the Year - Spain
Dar Al-Arkan Corporate Governance Company of the Year - MENA, Real Estate Development Company of the Year - Saudi Arabia
Dennis de Jong, UFX FX Director of the Year
Emirates REIT Management Ltd Shariah-compliant Fund Manager of the Year - UAE
FBS Markets Inc. Best Contests Promotions and Trading Conditions, Fastest Growing Binary Options Broker of the Year
Fermaca Natural Gas Company of the Year - LATAM
Fernando Cavillo Alvarez, Fermaca CEO of the Year - LATAM
Fides Treasury Services AG Multi-banking Solution Provider of the Year
First Bank of Nigeria Limited Commercial Bank of the Year - Nigeria
Groupe Financier De Gestion Asser Manager of the Year - Monaco
Groupe Guicopres S.A. Construction Company of the Year - Republic of Guinea
Gulf Bank Best Banking Rewards Program - MENA, Corporate Bank of the Year - Kuwait
Hasan Shakib Al-Jabri, Sedco Capital Islamic Finance Personality of the Year - MENA
HELLENIC REPUBLIC ASSET DEVELOPMENT FUND Global National FDI Program
Helsinki Capital Partners Fund Manager of the Year - Finland
Herculis Partners Alternative Investment Boutique of the Year - Switzerland
International Capital Management AG Asset Management Firm of the Year - Liechtenstein
Invest Edinburgh Best in FDI - Europe
Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia CSR Public Company of the Year - Southeast Asia, Most Transparent Public Financial Institution of the Year - Southeast Asia
J Equity Partners Shariah Compliant Investment Firm of the Year - Bahrain
Kasikorn Bank Innovative Bank of the Year - Thailand
KBR Argentina S.A Boutique Advisory Firm of the Year - Argentina
KMG Capital Markets Ltd Fund Structuring Firm of the Year
KSI Mexico Accountancy Firm of the Year - Mexico
Manuel Osa Nsue Nsua, National Bank of Equatorial Guinea Banking CEO of the Year - Guinea Ecuatorial
Marie-Christine Lambin Fund Manager of the Year -Luxembourg
Max O Cisse, African Open Sky Aviation CEO of the Year - Africa
MDO Management Company SA Independent Fund Management Company of the Year - Luxembourg
Mocambique Previdente SGFP, S.A. Pension Fund CEO of the Year - Mozambique
Mothobi Seseli, Argon Asset Management Financial CEO of the Year - Africa
Nastrac Group Consultancy Firm of the Year - Singapore
National Bank of Equatorial Guinea Business Bank of the Year - Guinea Ecuatorial
Nina Alag Suri, Nastrac Group Female Business Personality of the Year - Singapore
Natal Joint Municipal Pension/Provident Funds Best Performing Pension Fund of the Year - South Africa
Old Mutual Investment Group Alternative Investment Company of the Year - South Africa
OmniPay Inc Payment Solutions Provider of the Year - Philippines
OPEN Cleantech Investment Company of the Year - Europe
People's Bank Bank of the Year - Sri Lanka
Picton Fund Distribution Company of the Year - LATAM
PPS Portfolio Performance Ltd Consultancy Management Company of the Year - Brazil
Puente Capital Markets Company of the Year - LATAM, Wealth Management Company of the Year - LATAM
RCB Bank Limited International Bank of the Year - Cyprus
RHB Islamic Bank Berhad Shariah Compliant Finance Company of the Year - Malaysia
Sai Gon Joint Stock Commercial Bank Commercial Bank of the Year
SEDCO Capital Asset Management Company of the Year - Saudi Arabia
Sentinel Retirement Fund Pension Fund of the Year - Africa
South Andes Capital M&A Advisory Firm of the Year - Chile
Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Pension Fund Administrator of the Year - Nigeria
Steevensz Beckers Tax Lawyers Tax Firm of the Year - Caribbean
Sterling Bank Islamic Bank of the Year - Africa
Takaful Ikhlas Berhad Takaful Company of the Year - Malaysia
UAE Exchange Centre L.L.C FX & Payment Solution Firm of the Year - UAE
UBL FUND MANAGERS LIMITED Most Customer-Centric Asset Manager - Pakistan
UFX FX Broker of the Year
University of Whitewater Best in Distance Learning
VAsB Asset Management Fund Management Company of the Year - Slovakia
Wafasalaf Finance Company of the Year - North Africa
Warba Bank Bank of the Year - Kuwait
Xeon International International Investment Company of the Year - Europe
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Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 14, 2016) - American CuMo Mining Corporation (TSXV: MLY) (OTC Pink: MLYCF) (CuMoCo or the Company) announces the signing of an agreement to earn 100 percent interest in eight unpatented mining claims known as the Calida Mine Property located in southeastern Idaho.
"We are extremely pleased to add the Calida Mine Property to our portfolio. This is a highly prospective gold, silver and copper property that has significant historic drill results and has the potential of being developed in a relatively short period," said Shaun Dykes, President and CEO of CuMoCo.
The Calida claims cover several significant mineralized gold, silver, and copper veins that range in width from 1.5 meters (5 feet) to more than 30 meters (100 feet) and have been exposed on the surface for approximately 4,267 meters (14,000 linear feet).
The agreement gives CuMoCo a ten-year option to earn 100 percent interest by making a series of payments. An initial payment of $40,000 US dollars has been made and ongoing payments consist of the following in US funds:
-$40,000 on or before 90 days of the effective date.
-$50,000 on or before six months of the effective date.
-$50,000 on or before 12 months of the effective date.
-$50,000 on or before 18 months of the effective date.
-$50,000 on or before 24 months of the effective date.
-$50,000 every six months until commercial production or ten years.
-$1 million at the start of commercial production.
The Calida agreement includes a variable buyout price, the Actual Exercise Price (AEP), that is based on the number of ounces of gold equivalent as defined in an independent 43-101 pre-feasibility or feasibility study. The AEP has a minimum price of $10 million dollars for one million ounces of gold equivalent, rising at the rate of $10 million dollars for each one million ounces of gold equivalent to a maximum price of $50 million dollars for greater than five million ounces of gold equivalent.
The property has been extensively explored for the past thirty years. Exploration has included drilling 23 holes in 1983 as well as thorough trenching and sampling. A total of ten mineralized veins have been identified on the property to date. Significant intersections from the drilling are listed below:
Hole Vein From To Width From To Width Au Au Ag Ag Cu meters meters meters feet feet feet g/T oz/t g/T oz/t % W-3 Main 84.7 125.0 40.2 278 410 132 5.5 0.160 232.8 6.80 4.30 M-1 Main 94.5 137.2 42.7 310 450 140 5.1 0.150 145.7 4.25 1.30 R-2 Main 65.5 126.5 61.0 215 415 200 4.6 0.133 173.8 5.07 2.22 CA-1 Calida 115.8 125.0 9.1 380 410 30 6.7 0.194 231.1 6.74 4.45 F-1 F-Vein 55.8 57.3 1.5 183 188 5 14.1 0.410 538.3 15.7 0.59 H-3 H-vein 54.9 58.8 4.0 180 193 13 8.6 0.250 256.5 7.48 3.92
In 2009, an independent resource calculation using the historic data was completed which defined a resource of 8,059,304 tons grading 0.168 ounces gold/ton, 6.12 ounces silver/ton and 2.86 percent copper.
The 2009 resource is considered an historical resource, as a technical report on the resource was never filed although the calculation was completed. It is the qualified person's opinion that the resource is reliable having been done by a reputable independent third party who verified data and checked assays. A qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as a current mineral resource. The Company is not treating the resource as a "current resource" and does not intend to rely on this resource but will use it as a guide.
Examination of available data indicates a target area of at least 100 meters (328 feet) wide, 1500 meters (4921 feet) long and 500 meters (1640 feet) deep that contains gold with copper bearing mineralization. CuMoCo has constructed a three-dimensional model of the veins and has identified a preliminary exploration target of between 8 and 30 million tonnes grading between 5 and 10 grams per tonne gold, 150 to 200 grams per tonne silver and 2 to 3 percent copper.
The Company intends to further the exploration and cautions that the target, the potential quantity and grade is conceptual in nature as exploration work done to define Mineral Resources as defined by NI 43-101 has been insufficient. It is uncertain if further exploration will result in establishing the existence of Mineral Resources.
"It is important for our shareholders to know that we remain completely focused on developing the CuMo Project and advancing its towards production," said Dykes. "Being a significant gold property, the Calida Mine provides an excellent opportunity to add value to the Company for its ongoing negotiations with Chinese or other investors."
Shaun Dykes, M.Sc. (Eng); P.Geo (#20044), a Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101, is responsible for the review of all scientific and technical information contained in this release.
About CuMoCo
CuMoCo is focused on advancing its CuMo Project towards feasibility and establishing itself as one of the largest and lowest-cost molybdenum producers in the world as well as a significant producer of copper and silver. Management is continuing to build an even stronger foundation from which to move the Company and the CuMo Project forward. For more information, please visit www.cumoco.com and www.cumoproject.com
For further information, please contact:
American CuMo Mining Corporation
Shaun Dykes, President and Chief Executive Officer
Tel: (604) 689-7902
Email: info@cumoco.com
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.
Forward-looking information
This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation including, but not limited to, statements that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, such as the Company's ability to successfully negotiate the Definitive Agreement with the Chinese Partners, the Company's ability to move the CuMo Project through development to feasibility and production, and for the Company to become one of the largest and lowest-cost molybdenum producers in the world as well as a significant producer of copper and silver. Forward-looking information is based on a number of material factors and assumptions, including the result of exploration activities, the ability of the Company to raise the financing for a feasibility study and to put the CuMo project into production, that no labour shortages or delays are experienced, that plant and equipment function as specified that the Court will not intervene with the Company's proposed exploration activities at the CuMo Project, and the ability of the Company to obtain all requisite permits and licenses to advance the CuMo Project and eventually bring it into production. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, future events, conditions, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future prediction, projection or forecast expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, the interpretation and actual results of current exploration activities; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; future prices of molybdenum, silver and copper; possible variations in grade or recovery rates; labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; delays in obtaining governmental approvals or financing, as well as those factors disclosed in the Company's publicly filed documents, including the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2016. There may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 14, 2016) - Rockridge Capital Corp. (TSXV: RRC) (the "Company") announces also announces that it has amended its proposed private placement financing by increasing the price from $0.11 per share to $0.20 per share. As a result, the Company proposes to issue up to 10,000,000 common shares at a price of $0.20 per share for total proceeds of $2,000,000 (the "Offering").
The Company may pay finders a fee and issue finders warrants in connection with the Offering.
The proceeds of the Offering will be used for mineral exploration on the Company's properties and working capital purposes.
For more information, please contact Gunther Roehlig, CEO and President at (604) 683-0911.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
ROCKRIDGE CAPITAL CORP.
"signed"
_______________________
Gunther Roehlig
CEO and President
Forward-Looking Statements
Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to the Company's limited operating history and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 11/14/16 -- Trevali Mining Corporation ("Trevali" or the "Company") (TSX: TV)(LMA: TV)(OTCQX: TREVF)(FRANKFURT: 4TI) has released financial results for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2016. Third quarter ("Q3") EBITDA(1) increased significantly from the preceding quarter to a record $14.8 million, with income from operations of $10.6 million, and the Company posted a net profit of $2.4-million, or $0.01 per share, for the quarter. Q3 marked a major milestone for Trevali as the Caribou zinc mine in New Brunswick commenced Commercial Production.
This release should be read in conjunction with Trevali's unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and management's discussion and analysis for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2016, which is available on Trevali's website and on SEDAR. All financial figures are in Canadian dollar unless otherwise stated.
Q3-2016 Results Highlights:
-- Record EBITDA(1) of $14.8 million, up 80% from the Second Quarter 2016 ("Q2") -- Income from mining operations of $10.6 million an increase of 103% from Q2 -- Net income of $2.4 million or $0.01 per share -- Record total concentrate sales revenue of $57.5 million, up 99% from Q2 -- Total cash position of $16.9 million -- Consolidated Q3 mill throughput of 402,039 tonnes resulting in record quarterly production of 32.4 million payable pounds of zinc, 9.7 million payable pounds of lead and 362,776 payable ounces of silver at site cash costs(2) US$0.40 per pound of payable Zinc Equivalent ("ZnEq")(3) produced or US$46.73/tonne milled -- Provisional realized commodity selling prices for Q3-2016 production was US$1.03 per pound zinc, US$0.87 per pound lead and US$19.40 per ounce silver at International Benchmark terms under the Company's offtake agreement with Glencore -- Q3 Santander site cash costs(2) US$0.33 per pound of payable Zinc Equivalent ("ZnEq")(3) produced or US$36.33/tonne milled, in line with 2016 cost guidance of US$35-38 per tonne milled -- Q3 Caribou site cash costs(2) US$0.46 per pound of payable Zinc Equivalent ("ZnEq")(3) produced or US$58.88/tonne milled
"Trevali had a transformative quarter during which we declared Commercial Production at our Caribou zinc mine in New Brunswick," stated Dr. Mark Cruise, Trevali's President and CEO. "While our Santander mine in Peru continues to post strong, consistent results including very significant exploration upside, we are particularly proud of our Caribou team. In summary, Caribou has overcome both technical and exceedingly challenging financial hurdles during the first half of 2016 to successfully commission the operation. This includes posting positive Q3 operational results despite the mine not yet being fully ramped. This is an encouraging indicator of the upside at Caribou as we continue to ramp toward the full nameplate 3,000-tpd operating rate. Caribou has been steadily increasing performance and throughput in Q4 in tandem with strengthening zinc and lead commodity prices."
Q3-2016 Financial Results Conference Call
The Company will host a conference call and audio webcast at 10:30 a.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, November 15, 2016, to review the Q3 financial results. Participants are advised to dial in 5-minutes prior to the scheduled start time of the call.
Conference call dial-in details: Toll-free (North America): 1-877-291-4570 Toronto and International: 1-647-788-4919 Audio Webcast: http://www.gowebcasting.com/8118
Summary Financial Results ($ millions, except per-share amounts)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Q3-2016 Q3-2015 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Revenues $57.5 $27.1 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Income from mining operations $10.6 $1.5 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net income (loss) $2.4 ($3.4) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Basic Income per share $0.01 ($0.01) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Production Statistics
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Q3-2016 Q3-2015(i) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tonnes Mined 397,864 175,560 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tonnes Milled 402,039 197,289 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Payable Production: Zinc lbs (pounds) 32,384,913 14,848,026 Lead lbs (pounds) 9,718,926 7,785,192 Silver Oz 362,776 285,962 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Zinc Equivalent lbs Payable Produced(3) 47,333,137 27,473,893 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Site Cash Cost(2) per Equivalent Payable Zinc lb Produced (USD$)(3) $ 0.40 $ 0.28 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cash Cost(2) per Tonne Milled (USD$) $ 46.73 $ 38.67 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- (i)Q3-2015 Production statistics reflect only Santander mining operations
Consolidated Sales Statistics:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Q3-2016 Q3-2015(ii) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Zinc Concentrate (DMT) 30,659 16,694 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lead Concentrate (DMT) 10,439 6,828 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Payable Zinc lbs 27,031,229 15,215,705 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Payable Lead lbs 9,570,802 7,996,297 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Payable Silver Oz 349,366 290,228 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Revenues (USD$)(5) $ 43,934,000 $ 20,595,000 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Average Realized Metal Price (USD$): ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Zinc $ 1.03 $ 0.78 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lead $ 0.87 $ 0.73 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Silver $ 19.40 $ 14.80 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Zinc Equivalent lbs Sold(4) 41,618,528 28,143,580 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- (ii)Q3-2015 Sales statistics reflect only Santander mining operations (1) EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) is calculated by considering Company's earnings before interest payments, tax, depreciation and amortization are subtracted for any final accounting of its income and expenses. The EBITDA of a business gives an indication of its current operational profitability and is a NON-IFRS measure. (2) Refer to Non-IFRS Measures in the September 30, 2016 Management Discussion and Analysis. (3) ZnEq Payable Pounds Produced = ((Zn Payable lbs Produced x Zn Price)+(Pb Payable lbs Produced x Pb Price)+(Cu Payable lbs Produced x Cu Price)+(Au oz Payable Produced x Au Price)+(Ag oz Payable Produced x Ag Price))/Zn Price. (4) ZnEq Payable Pounds Sold = ((Zn Payable lbs Sold x Zn Price)+(Pb Payable lbs Sold x Pb Price)+(Cu Payable lbs Sold x Cu Price)+(Au oz Payable Sold x Au Price)+(Ag oz Payable Sold x Ag Price))/Zn Price. (All metal prices are the average realized metal price for the period). (5) Revenues include prior period adjustment.
Santander Zinc Mine, Peru
Santander Production Statistics
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Q3-2016 Q3-2015 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tonnes Mined 192,815 175,560 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tonnes Milled 216,551 197,289 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Average Head Grades % Zinc 4.61% 4.45% Lead 1.08% 2.11% Silver - Oz (ounces)/ton 1.26 1.79 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Average Recoveries % Zinc 89% 90% Lead 84% 89% Silver 67% 77% ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Concentrate Produced DMT (dry metric tonne): Zinc 18,403 15,954 Lead 3,745 6,610 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Concentrate Grades % Zinc 48% 50% Lead 53% 56% Ag - Oz/ton 53.1 41.8 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Payable Production: Zinc lbs (pounds) 16,608,275 14,848,026 Lead lbs (pounds) 4,141,582 7,785,192 Silver Oz 192,431 285,962 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Zinc Equivalent lbs Payable Produced(3) 23,603,577 27,473,893 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Site Cash Cost(2) per Equivalent Payable Zinc lb Produced (USD$)(3) $ 0.33 $ 0.28 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cash Cost(2) per Tonne Milled (USD$) $ 36.33 $ 38.67 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Santander Sales Summary:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Q3-2016 Q3-2015 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Zinc Concentrate (DMT) 18,133 16,694 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lead Concentrate (DMT) 3,718 6,828 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Payable Zinc lbs 15,947,830 15,215,705 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Payable Lead lbs 4,119,533 7,996,297 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Payable Silver Oz 188,504 290,228 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Revenues (USD$)(5) $ 24,415,000 $ 20,595,000 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Average Realized Metal Price (USD$): ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Zinc $ 1.04 $ 0.78 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lead $ 0.86 $ 0.73 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Silver $ 19.42 $ 14.80 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Zinc Equivalent lbs Sold(4) 22,857,248 28,143,580 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
For the third quarter Santander continued to operate at steady state 2,000 tonne-per-day nameplate, with daily production commonly exceeding this by approximately 15-20%, and culminating with record quarterly zinc production of 16.6 million payable pounds, plus 4.1 million payable pounds of lead and 192,431 payable ounces of silver. Approximately 216,551 tonnes of mineralized material was processed through the mill with underground mine production of approximately 192,815 tonnes.
Q3 cash costs were approximately US$36.33 per tonne and in-line with the 2016 annual cost guidance of US$35-$38 per tonne milled. (Please refer to Non-IFRS Measures in the September 30, 2016 Management Discussion and Analysis).
Santander's 2016 production guidance remains at 57-60 million pounds of payable zinc in concentrate grading approximately 50% Zn, 20-23 million pounds of payable lead in concentrate grading approximately 52-55% Pb and 800,000-1,000,000 ounces of payable silver.
The Company completed its approximately 11,000-metre 2016 underground Santander drill program at the end of the third quarter. Due to the positive exploration results the Company has increased the drill program by an additional 3,500 metres for Q4-2016. It is anticipated that the program will continue to define and potentially expand the newly discovered Rosa, Fatima and emergent Oyon lead-silver-zinc zones in addition to the Magistral zones that all remain open for expansion at depth.
Caribou Zinc Mine, Canada
Caribou Production Statistics
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Q3-2016 Q3-2015 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tonnes Mined 205,049 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tonnes Milled 185,488 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Average Head Grades % Zinc 5.91% - Lead 2.62% - Silver - Oz (ounces)/ton 2.26 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Average Recoveries % Zinc 78% - Lead 56% - Silver (in lead concentrate) 36% - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Concentrate Produced DMT (dry metric tonne): Zinc 17,908 - Lead 6,973 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Concentrate Grades % Zinc 48% - Silver - Oz/ton 4.48 - Lead 39% - Silver - Oz/ton 21.45 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Payable Production: Zinc lbs (pounds) 15,776,638 - Lead lbs (pounds) 5,577,344 - Silver Oz 170,345 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Zinc Equivalent lbs Payable Produced(3) 23,729,560 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Site Cash Cost(2) per Equivalent Payable Zinc lb Produced (USD$)(3) $ 0.46 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cash Cost(2) per Tonne Milled (USD$) $ 58.88 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Caribou Sales Statistics:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Q3-2016 Q3-2015 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Zinc Concentrate (DMT) 12,526 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lead Concentrate (DMT) 6,721 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Payable Zinc lbs 11,083,399 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Payable Lead lbs 5,451,269 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Payable Silver Oz 160,862 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Revenues (USD$)(5) $ 19,519,000 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Average Realized Metal Price (USD$): ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Zinc $ 1.03 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lead $ 0.88 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Silver $ 19.38 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Zinc Equivalent lbs Sold(4) 18,761,280 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trevali declared commercial production at its Caribou Zinc Mine in New Brunswick as of July 1, 2016. As the Company transitioned to commercial production in the third quarter, focus continues on ramping operations towards 3,000-tpd nameplate design levels in addition to exploring longer-term mining opportunities including re-tendering of contractor operations to better reflect the transition from commissioning to commercial operations.
Caribou remains on track to produce 37-41 million pounds of payable zinc, 14-15 million pounds of payable lead and 380,000-420,000 ounces of payable silver in H2 (July 1-December 31, 2016). Head grades remain unchanged and are anticipated to be 5.9-6.2% Zn, 2.5-2.7% Pb and 65-70 grams/tonne Ag. Operating cash costs will be a key focus, as the site continues to ramp to full design levels, and are expected to modestly decrease as the Company continues to renegotiate major mining and supplies contracts, as well as normal course operational optimization and efficiency gains as the mine continues to ramp to full production.
Qualified Person and Quality Control/Quality Assurance
EurGeol Dr. Mark D. Cruise, Trevali's President and CEO, and Paul Keller, P.Eng, Trevali's Chief Operating Officer, are qualified persons as defined by NI 43-101, have supervised the preparation of the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for this news release. Dr. Cruise is not independent of the Company as he is an officer, director and shareholder. Mr. Keller is not independent of the Company as he is an officer and shareholder.
ABOUT TREVALI MINING CORPORATION
Trevali is a zinc-focused, base metals mining company with two commercially producing operations.
The Company is actively producing zinc and lead-silver concentrates from its 2,000-tonne-per-day Santander mine in Peru and its 3,000-tonne-per-day Caribou mine in the Bathurst Mining Camp of northern New Brunswick. Trevali also owns the Halfmile and Stratmat base metal deposits, located in New Brunswick, that are currently undergoing a Preliminary Economic Assessment reviewing their potential development.
The common shares of Trevali are listed on the TSX (symbol TV), the OTCQX (symbol TREVF), the Lima Stock Exchange (symbol TV), and the Frankfurt Exchange (symbol 4TI). For further details on Trevali, readers are referred to the Company's website (www.trevali.com) and to Canadian regulatory filings on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
On Behalf of the Board of Directors of
TREVALI MINING CORPORATION
Mark D. Cruise, President
This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States private securities litigation reform act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Statements containing forward-looking information express, as at the date of this news release, the Company's plans, estimates, forecasts, projections, expectations, or beliefs as to future events or results and the Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation to, update such statements containing the forward-looking information. Such forward-looking statements and information include, but are not limited to statements as to: the intended use of proceeds in connection with the Offering, the accuracy of estimated mineral resources, anticipated results of future exploration, and forecast future metal prices, expectations that environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-economic, political, marketing or other issues will not materially affect estimates of mineral resources. 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.
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 contained in this news release and the company has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: fluctuations in spot and forward markets for silver, zinc, base metals and certain other commodities (such as natural gas, fuel oil and electricity); fluctuations in currency markets (such as the Canadian dollar and Peruvian sol versus the U.S. dollar); risks related to the technological and operational nature of the Company's business; changes in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls or regulations and political or economic developments in Canada, the United States, Peru or other countries where the Company may carry on business in the future; risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining (including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected geological or structural 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; inadequate insurance, or inability to obtain insurance, to cover these risks and hazards; 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 and permits and the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining, diminishing quantities or grades of mineral resources as properties are mined; global financial conditions; business opportunities that may be presented to, or pursued by, the Company; the Company's ability to complete and successfully integrate acquisitions and to mitigate other business combination risks; challenges to, or difficulty in maintaining, the Company's title to properties and continued ownership thereof; the actual results of current exploration activities, conclusions of economic evaluations, and changes in project parameters to deal with unanticipated economic or other factors; and increased competition in the mining industry for properties, equipment, qualified personnel, and their costs. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty or reliance on forward-looking statements.
Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, described or intended. 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.
Trevali's production plan at the Caribou Mine is based only on measured, indicated and inferred resources, and not mineral reserves, and does not have demonstrated economic viability. Trevali's production plan at the Santander Mine is based only on indicated and inferred mineral resources, and not mineral reserves, and does not have demonstrated economic viability. Inferred mineral resources are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves, and there is therefore no certainty that the conclusions of the production plans and Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) will be realized. Additionally, where Trevali discusses exploration/expansion potential, any potential quantity and grade is conceptual in nature and there has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the target being delineated as a mineral resource.
We advise US investors that while the terms "measured resources", "indicated resources" and "inferred resources" are recognized and required by Canadian regulations, the US Securities and Exchange Commission does not recognize these terms. US investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of the material in these categories will ever be converted into reserves.
This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities described herein have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the securities laws of any state and may not be offered or sold within the United States, absent such registration or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements.
The TSX has not approved or disapproved of the contents of this news release.
Contacts:
Trevali Mining Corporation
Steve Stakiw
Vice President, Investor Relations and
Corporate Communications
(604) 488-1661 / Direct: (604) 638-5623
sstakiw@trevali.com
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 11/14/16 -- Fortress Paper Ltd. ("Fortress Paper" or the "Company") (TSX: FTP) is pleased to announce a major investment to advance its strategic project of utilizing birch to manufacture dissolving pulp at the Fortress Specialty Cellulose Mill located in Thurso, Quebec (the "Project"). Birch trees grow abundantly across Canada and are considered an underutilized species of tree. The Project will ensure a better use of the mixed forest in the local region, increase economic activity, and result in other ancillary economic benefits.
The Project is estimated to cost approximately $19.7 million in total, with $9 million to be funded by the Government of Canada through a non-repayable contribution. The remainder of the Project's total cost is expected to be financed by the Company with cash on hand, operating cash-flow and other investment incentive programs, such as the Hydro Quebec "Rate L" tariff.
The Company anticipates that the Project will be completed in the first quarter of 2018, and is expected to result in an incremental annual production capacity increase of 8,500 ADMT in 2018 and 17,000 ADMT in 2019 compared to current production capacity.
Yvon Pelletier, President and Chief Executive Officer of Fortress Paper, commented: "We are delighted with the support of the federal government. This investment highlights the innovative and transformative potential of producing dissolving pulp using birch. The Project demonstrates our commitment to pursuing strategic initiatives that build long-term shareholder value."
About Fortress Paper
Fortress Paper operates internationally in two distinct business segments: dissolving pulp and security paper products. The Company operates its dissolving pulp business at the Fortress Specialty Cellulose Mill located in Canada, which has expanded into the renewable energy generation sector with the construction of a cogeneration facility. The Company operates its security paper products business at the Landqart Mill located in Switzerland, where it produces banknote, passport, visa and other brand protection and security papers.
This news release contains certain forward-looking information that reflect the current views and/or expectations of the Company with respect to its expectations, beliefs, assumptions, estimates and forecasts about its business and the industry and markets in which it operates. The reader is cautioned that statements comprising forward-looking information are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors which are difficult to predict and that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Examples of such forward-looking information that may be contained in this news release include: the operational results and production capacity increases expected from the Project, the ancillary economic benefits expected from the Project, and the expected sources of funding for the Project. Assumptions underlying the Company's expectations regarding forward-looking information contained in this news release include, among others: that the completion of the Project will achieve the operational results expected by the Company, that there will be a viable market for dissolving pulp, that the cost of the Project will not materially exceed the Company's estimates and that Fortress Paper will have sufficient financing to fund the Project. Persons reading this news release are cautioned that statements comprising forward-looking information are only predictions, and that the Company's actual future results or performance are subject to certain risks and uncertainties including, without limitation: that there will be insufficient funds available to finance the Project or that the Company will be unable to complete the Project without additional funding; that there will be unforeseen disruptions to the completion of the Project; that there may be downturns in the market for dissolving pulp; that the Project will not achieve its intended operational results; and other risk factors listed from time to time in the Company's public filings. These risks, as well as others, could cause actual results and events to vary significantly. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on statements comprising forward-looking information, which are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Fortress Paper does not undertake any obligations to release publicly any revisions for updating any voluntary forward-looking information, except as required by applicable securities law.
Contacts:
Fortress Paper Ltd.
604-904-2328
info@fortresspaper.com
TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 11/14/16 -- The Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL) welcomes the 2016 Ontario Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review, and expects that the implementation of a highly-skilled workforce strategy will play a role in stemming the growth of precarious employment. The OFL calls on the government to ensure that it continues the work for fairness that it has initiated through the Changing Workplaces Review and its report on the Gender Wage Gap.
"The government's commitment to the development of its highly-skilled workforce strategy is one element of stopping the growth of precarious work," said OFL President Chris Buckley. "The OFL recognises that precarious work occurs in all sectors. Contract and temporary work is common in low-wage jobs but also occurs in high-skill jobs. All Ontarians need to be treated fairly at work."
An increased rebate for first-time homebuyers is a positive development for many, but without stable employment, few Ontarians will feel secure making the investment in a home.1.7 million Ontarians continue to face part-time, low-wage, temporary or contract work. The OFL urges the Ontario Government to use the Changing Workplaces Review to ensure that all workers are protected at work so that every job is a pathway out of poverty.
A lack of childcare is proven to prevent women from reaching their full potential in the workplace. The OFL applauds the announcement of 3400 new childcare spaces, and reiterates its call that any services developed under this new mandate must be publicly funded and delivered in order to guarantee higher quality and more accessibility for parents, as well as unionization for childcare employees.
The OFL also continues to urge the government to immediately halt the sale of Hydro One, ensuring that Ontarians maintain ownership of the public services that generations of Ontarians have worked to pay for.
www.ofl.ca, www.twitter.com/oflabour, www.Facebook.com/OFLabour
Contacts:
Ontario Federation of Labour
Meagan Perry
Director of Communications
Phone: 416-894-3456
Email: mperry@ofl.ca
JACKSONVILLE, FL -- (Marketwired) -- 11/14/16 -- Green Energy Enterprises, Inc. (OTC PINK: GYOG) ("GYOG" or "the Corporation") announces that it has entered a Settlement Agreement to settle a significant amount of its debt. The Corporation is working toward our debt elimination initiative; we look forward to our market capitalization rebounding to reflect the strength and value of the Company.
On August 18, 2016, V2IP, Inc., a Florida registered foreign corporation (the "Plaintiff") was granted by the Circuit Court of the Tenth Judicial Circuit, in and for Polk County, Florida Civil Division, an Agreed Order Approving Settlement Agreement and Stipulation for Dismissal against Green Energy Enterprises, Inc., (the "Defendant") to settle a collection action against the Defendant. Under the terms of the Settlement Agreement (the "Settlement") Defendant will issue and exchange securities for debt with the Plaintiff. Plaintiff owns bona fide claims ("Claims") against Defendant in the aggregate amount of Four Hundred, Four Thousand Dollars and Zero Cents. Plaintiff has agreed to the Settlement and believes that it to be sufficiently fair. Defendant's board of directors has considered the Settlement and has resolved that its terms and conditions are fair to, and in the best interest of, Defendant and its stockholders.
The securities of the Defendant shall be issued to the Plaintiff in exchange for the Claims Plaintiff has against Defendant and shall be issued in accordance with the Settlement which is in accordance with Section 3(a)(10) of the Securities Act and Rule 69W-500.014 F.A.C. and shall be freely tradable and unrestricted.
Please feel free to contact Green Energy Enterprises, Inc. by email at Donnell@GreenEnergyEnt.com or Donnell J. Vigil by telephone for information or investment opportunities. Green Energy will continue to update our shareholders and the investment community as we progress.
ABOUT GREEN ENERGY ENTERPRISES, INC.
Green Energy Enterprises, Inc. owns and operates 4 wholly owned Subsidiaries.
1) FLIGHT OPERATIONS
Based out of Jacksonville Florida, the corporation owns and operates two (2) flight and drone training schools. The schools, A-Cent Aviation, Inc. and Atlantic Aviation, Inc. focus on continuing education. A-Cent is SEVIS/SEVP (http://www.ice.gov/sevis/) certified to provide training to foreign students. Both flight operations use the certified Cessna Pilot Training curriculum for our flight students (http://www.cessna.com/learn-to-fly.html). Atlantic Aviation is an FAA Part 61 flight school and tailors its training to recreational flying and aircraft rental. A-Cent is an FAA Part 141 flight school (www.faa.gov), operates an FAA Part 91 Commercial Air Tour Operation, Computer Assisted Testing Service (CATS) (http://www.catstest.com) and a Comira testing facility (http://www.comiratesting.com). We offer flight training, drone training, bi-annual reviews, sight-seeing tours, photography flights and will accept VA benefits under the GI bill (http://www.gibill.va.gov/). A-Cent provides light sport training and ground instruction for individuals and corporations seeking to operate Drones commercially and assist with drafting FAA Exemption 333 filings. Atlantic Aviation, Inc. is a recipient of an AOPA Excellence Award for 2012 and recognized as one of the top 50 flight school in the country. (http://flighttraining.aopa.org/awardwinners/2012winners.html). Both flight operations offer Light Sport training and are the only Light Sport training school in the Northern part of Florida. Schedule a Romance Flight with A-Cent Aviation or an Intro Flight with A-Cent or Atlantic Aviation. Look for discount offers we provide through Groupon (www.groupon.com), Living Social (www.livingsocial.com) or Local Flavor (www.localflavor.com). GYOG also owns a holding company Quasar Aircraft Corporation which holds and manages the aircraft used in GYOG's flight operations.
Text "Start" to (904) 310-4829 for offers, deals and updates on new programs and aircraft available offered by A-Cent Aviation, Inc.
2) HYDROPONIC GROW STORE
GYOG owns, Grow Your Own Greenz, Inc., a hydroponic grow store in Colorado and is an ancillary service provider to the legal medical marijuana industry and organic agriculture industry. The Company sells everything needed to facilitate a one-stop shop for full hydroponic grow systems, equipment, supplies and nutrients. We offer trimmer rentals, installation and delivery. No job is too small or large for our knowledgeable staff to handle. Feel free to give us a call to answer questions about your grow. We have beginner grower deals available for the first time grower. Visit our Ecommerce site (www.GYOGz.com).
Website: coming soon www.GreenEnergyEnt.com
www.GYOGz.com
www.A-CentAviation.com
www.flyatlanticaviationinc.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/GreenEnergyEnt
http://www.facebook.com/A-CentAviation
http://www.facebook.com/GrowYourOwnGreenz
Twitter: @GreenEnergy_Ent
@GYOGz
This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and Quasar Aerospace Industries, Inc. under take no obligation to update such statements.
Contact:
Green Energy Enterprises, Inc.
Telephone: (904) 207-6503 or (904) 207-6502
Email: Donnell@GreenEnergyEnt.com
Shruti Haasan has filed a complaint against a cyber stalker who has been sending her derogatory messages, some of them laced with threats, on her twitter handle.
According to a report by The New Indian Express, the actor filed an FIR against the stalker, which was submitted to the Cyber Crime grievance cell at the City Police Commissioners office in Chennai. The stalker was identified as Dr K G Guruprasad, a Karnataka-based doctor at the Hasan Institute of Medical Science.
In the two-page complaint, Haasan stated that the stalker made accusations about the actors character and maligned her personal life. She also alleged that the stalker abused her constantly and even threatened to stab her if he managed to get near her.
As per the same report, Haasan stated that the cyber stalking began on 7 September and has been going on since then. She also attached screenshots of the messages sent by the stalker in order to substantiate her claim. A senior police official who is handling the case admitted that the language used in the messages was extremely foul and derogatory.
The police official added that Haasan might know the stalker personally as she has provided the email address and contact number of the accused in the complaint. However, her complaint does not explicitly state familiarity with the stalker.
According to a report by the Times of India, Haasan was attacked by a stalker at her Bandra flat three years ago. Thus, it is clear that this is not her first encounter with stalking and that is why she is presumably taking police action to prevent the situation from getting worse.
American Paper and Twine Company opened its doors in Nashville 90 years ago and is kicking off its 90th Anniversary Celebration with an employee event Saturday in Hendersonville.
"Nathan Doochin, along with business partner Milton Lockenbach, founded AP&T on Nov. 19, 1926 with one truck and a focus on customer service. The company has since grown to become the Southeasts leading wholesale supplier and distributor of janitorial, packaging, disposable food service, safety and office products. Nathans son, Bob, joined the company in 1962 and has served as Ppesident and CEO since 1982," officials said.
We feel honored and fortunate to be celebrating 90 years, Bob Doochin said. This company has navigated its way through the Depression, wars, recessions, technology advancements and Nashvilles continued growth to emerge stronger than ever.
Many things have changed since 1926 but the basic principles of business that my father lived by havent changed delivering quality products at competitive prices with the best possible customer service.
AP&T started on the 500 block of Third Avenue before moving to Public Square and then to its Second Avenue location (now occupied by the Wildhorse Saloon) in 1937. The company remained there until 1974 when it moved to a building on Centennial Boulevard. AP&Ts current Nashville home is a 150,000-square-foot facility on Cockrill Bend Boulevard.
In addition to its Nashville headquarters, AP&T also operates full-service distribution facilities in Chattanooga, Memphis, Little Rock, Knoxville, Atlanta and Florence, helping its fleet of trucks deliver products all over the Southeast. "AP&T now boasts more than 300 employees who are dedicated to delivering customized business solutions and superior service," officials said.
In conjunction with the celebration, AP&T has created a commemorative 90th Anniversary logo and is launching a new website, which details the history of the company over nine decades, showcases the evolution of products it has sold over the years and highlights what has made AP&T the success it is today.
In addition to this weekends employee event, AP&T is planning an event to celebrate with its vendors this fall.
The new high-security Rs 500 notes were released to banks for distribution on Sunday and the lenders have been asked to make separate arrangements for the elderly.
New series of Rs. 500 denomination notes introduced today in New Delhi at SBI Parliament Street Branch. pic.twitter.com/4CNKpm2246 Ministry of Finance (@FinMinIndia) November 13, 2016
Banks have been advised to make separate arrangements for the elderly and women, a senior government official told PTI.
Some branches like SBI main branch in Delhi have started distribution of Rs 500 notes.
Only Rs 2,000 notes, apart from Rs 100 and below, have been available since Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday night announced the surprise decision to demonetise higher denomination notes.
The new Rs 500 note is expected to ease pressure on banks cash position and improve liquidity in the market.
According to the Central Bank statement, the new Rs 500 banknotes bears the signature of Reserve Bank of India Governor Urjit Patel.
The stone grey-coloured note bears the year of printing 2016 and the Swachh Bharat logo printed on the reverse.
The new Rs 500 note is different from the earlier in colour, size, theme, location of security features and design elements.
Here are some key features:
Obverse:
1. See through register in denominational number
2. Latent image of the denominational number
3. Denominational number in Devnagari
4. Orientation and relative position of Mahatma Gandhi portrait changed
5. Windowed security thread changes colour from green to blue when note is tilted
6. Guarantee clause, Government's signature with Promise Clause and RBI emblem shifted towards right
7. Portrait and electrotype watermark
8. Number panel with numerals growing from small to big on the top left side and bottom right side
9. Denomination in numerals with Rupee Symbol in colour changing ink (green to blue) on bottom right
10. Ashoka pillar emblem on the right
For visually impaired:
Intaglio or raised printing of Mahatma Gandhi portrait, Ashoka pillar emblem, bleed lines and identification mark continue
11. Circle with Rs 500 in raised print on the right
12. 5 bleed lines on left and right in raised print
Reverse:
13. Year of printing of the note on left
14. Swachh Bharat logo with slogan
15. Language panel with slogan
16. Language panel towards centre
17. Red Fort an image of Indian heritage site with Indian flag
18. Denominational numeral in Devnagari on right
Delhi: New Rs 500 notes issued (Visuals from SBI branch,Parliament street) pic.twitter.com/SsYxKJu0BR ANI (@ANI_news) November 13, 2016
New Rs 500 notes issued, visuals from a bank in Bhopal. pic.twitter.com/biWBCzjQYA ANI (@ANI_news) November 13, 2016
With inputs from PTI
By Nita Bhalla
NEW DELHI (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - India's efforts to improve the lives of its children are failing due to meagre government spending on the youth, Nobel peace laureate and child rights activist Kailash Satyarthi said on Monday, as the country marked its annual "Children's Day".Children's Day, or Bal Divas, coinciding with the birthday of India's first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, is marked by events such as cultural performances in schools."Our nation has the world's highest number of malnourished children, child labour and children vulnerable to sexual offences, (yet) it is unfortunate this section of the society receives the lowest budgetary allocation," Satyarthi said."All our efforts for the development of children fail with such disproportionate investment," he said in a statement.Children make up more than 40 percent of India's almost 1.3 billion population, yet only four percent of the budget is allocated to under-18s, he said.India has made considerable progress in curbing the exploitation of children over the last decade. It has introduced laws to protect children and ensure their schooling, as well as a range of social welfare schemes. But activists say implementation is lacking in combating issues such as child labour and sexual exploitation.
A February 2015 report by the International Labour Organization puts the number of child workers in India aged between five and 17 at 5.7 million, out of 168 million globally.More than half are in agriculture, toiling in cotton, sugarcane and rice paddy fields where they are often exposed to pesticides and risk injury from sharp tools and heavy equipment.Over a quarter work in manufacturing - confined to poorly lit, barely ventilated rooms in slums, embroidering clothes, weaving carpets, making matchsticks or rolling beedi cigarettes.
Children also work in restaurants and hotels, washing dishes and chopping vegetables, or in middle-class homes, cleaning and scrubbing floors.Other crimes against children are also a serious concern, say activists. There were over 94,000 crimes against children recorded in 2015, an increase of more than five percent from the previous year, according to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).Crimes included murder, infanticide, kidnapping and abduction, abandonment and procuration of minor girls. Almost 30 percent were sexual offences, including rape, said NCRB data.
Satyarthi, whose charity Bachpan Bachao Andolan (Save the Childhood Movement) is credited with rescuing more than 80,000 enslaved children, said a child goes missing in India every eight minutes. He appealed to legislators across all political parties to devote one day to the discussion of child rights during the last session of parliament this year, which begins on Wednesday."Although significant progress has been made for the protection of child rights, critical challenges continue due to gaps in policy and their implementation," he said."The fight against child labour, child trafficking and child sexual abuse need higher political will," added Satyarthi, who won the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize jointly with Pakistani schoolgirl Malala Yousafzai. (Reporting by Nita Bhalla, editing by Ros Russell; Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, women's rights, trafficking, corruption and climate change. Visit news.trust.org)
This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
ISLAMABAD/SRINAGAR, India Seven Pakistani soldiers were killed by Indian shelling across the frontier in the disputed Kashmir region overnight, Pakistan's military said on Monday, as tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours simmer.Pakistan's military media wing, ISPR, said in a statement the seven soldiers were killed in the Bhimber sector on the "Line of Control" de facto border in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. A spokesman for India's army said its soldiers had responded to Pakistani firing on Sunday night. "There was a brief ceasefire violation initiated by Pakistani in Noushera sector which was effectively retaliated last night," the spokesman told Reuters, declining to comment on any Indian casualties. He also said there was ongoing firing between the two countries' forces on Monday along another part of the frontier.
Relations between Pakistan and India have been strained for several months, while cross-frontier shelling has intensified in recent weeks leading to deaths of civilians and soldiers stationed along the disputed frontier.Tensions have been fraught since July when India-administered Kashmir was rocked by street protests after the killing of a militant leader there.
Islamabad launched an international campaign to highlight alleged rights abuses by Indian security forces in Kashmir, while New Delhi blamed Pakistan for fanning the unrest.New Delhi also blamed Pakistan-based militants for a deadly attack on an Indian army base in the region in September, a charge Islamabad rejected.
Several days later, India said it had carried out "surgical strikes" on militant bases across the border. Pakistan dismissed the claim as "an illusion".Kashmir lies at the heart of the tension between India and Pakistan and the countries have fought two of their three wars over the region since partition and independence from Britain in 1947. (Reporting by Drazen Jorgic and Fayaz Bukhari; Additional reporting by Tommy Wilkes in NEW DELHI; Editing by Nick Macfie)
This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
By Hyunjoo Jin and Miyoung Kim
| SEOUL
SEOUL Samsung Electronics has agreed to buy Harman International Industries in an $8 billion deal, marking a major push into the auto electronics market and the biggest overseas acquisition ever by a South Korean company.The transaction highlights Samsung's efforts to break into the high-barrier automotive industry where it has little track record and also marks a strategic shift for the electronics company, which has previously shunned big acquisitions."An M&A deal this big is a first for us. But it shows that under Jay Y. Lee, the company is changing and open to new ways to grow," a source familiar with the deal told Reuters, referring to Samsung Electronics' vice chairman. The purchase of the Stamford, Connecticut-based maker of connected car and audio systems is part of Samsung's search for new growth areas as its smartphone business - scarred by the withdrawal of the fire-prone Galaxy Note 7 - slows. The greater use of electronics and software in vehicles, and the ability of cars to connect to smartphones and other devices, is offering technology companies with new business opportunities. "We have been studying the automotive market for some time. We conclude that organic growth will not get us where we want to go fast enough," Young Sohn, President and Chief Strategy Officer of Samsung Electronics, said on a conference call.
"Samsung will not get into the business of manufacturing cars," he said.Samsung, a maker of chips, displays, smartphones and TVs, agreed to acquire Harman for $112.00 per share in cash, a 28 percent premium to the U.S. company's closing price on Friday.Harman shares rose 25.6 percent to their highest level in more than one year in early trading.
"Harman was missing, in our opinion, a meaningful presence in displays and cockpit electronics; Samsung has these," Baird Equity Research said in a report.But investors in Samsung had reservations about the purchase price. "Samsung is using its huge cash pile to pull ahead of rivals in the auto technology market. But it remains to be seen whether Samsung will be able to grow into a company that will be able to compete with the likes of Bosch and Continental," said fund manager Park Jung-hoon of HDC Asset Management, which owns Samsung Electronics shares.
Harman's products, which provide infotainment, telematics, connected safety and security services, are used in more than 30 million vehicles made by automakers such as BMW, Toyota Motor Corp and Volkswagen (VOWG_p.DE), according to its website.Harman earns around two thirds of its revenue from its automotive-related business, and its automotive order backlog as of end-June stood at $24 billion, more than three times annual sales of $6.9 billion in fiscal year 2016.Samsung created an automotive electronics business team a year ago to look for opportunities in this area. This year it invested $450 million in Chinese automaker and rechargeable batteries firm BYD Co Ltd.Separately, Samsung has held talks with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) over a potential sale or partnership for the latter's Magneti Marelli auto parts maker, sources have said. (Reporting by Hyunjoo Jin and Miyoung Kim; Additional reporting by Rishika Sadam in Bengaluru; Editing by Edwina Gibbs, Jacqueline Wong and Jane Merriman)
This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
The ongoing chaos because of the demonetisation drive has led to law and order problems in parts of the country.
Over a hundred people were booked for pelting stones and clashing with the employees of a bank in Sujru village in Uttar Pradesh over exchanging of old currency notes, police said on Sunday.
Three persons sustained injuries in the clash that broke out after cash-strapped people gathered outside the bank, to exchange the now defunct Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes after the Centre's demonetisation move, turned violent, they said.
Police reached the spot and dispersed the angry mob. A case has been registered against more than a hundred people in this connection, a police official said.
Home Minister Rajnath Singh also called the chief ministers of at least ten states to review the law and order situation, according to The Hindu.
Two elderly men standing in seemingly unending queues at banks suffered heart attack and died in a tragic fallout of demonetisation of high-value currency notes as hassled people continued to descend on ATMs and banks in droves leading to arguments and scuffles.
A 69-year-old man died in Madhya Pradeshs Sagar town after suffering a heart attack while standing in a queue to exchange demonetised currency notes outside a bank, police said.
Another report of such death was received from Limdi town of Surendranagar district in Gujarat where a 69-year-old man died after heart attack. Mansukh Darji was standing in a queue outside a Bank of India branch in Limbdi when he suddenly collapsed.
Over 12,000 Delhi police, Rapid Action Force and paramilitary personnel were deployed on Sunday to maintain law and order as a large number of people queued up to withdraw money or get their notes exchanged at various banks and ATMs.
Owing to a Sunday, there was more crowd outside banks and ATMs, and personnel of Delhi police, RAF and paramilitary forces were ensuring that people stay in queues and maintain law and order, a Delhi police official said.
"More than 12,000 personnel of Delhi police were manning banks and ATMs across the city. They were ensuring that people stay in queues. We are committed to maintain law and order in the city," Delhi police spokesperson Rajan Bhagat said.
Police control room received several calls from people complaining about they being jostled in the queue, ATMs running out of cash and overcrowding in the banks. Police also issued an advisory on its Twitter handle, asking people not to believe on rumours, related to withdrawal of money and demonetised notes, spreading thick and fast.
It kept an eye on social media to identify the rumour mills.
With inputs from PTI
Rahm Flouts Trump, Vows To Keep Chicago 'Sanctuary City' For Immigrants
By Stephen Gossett in News on Nov 14, 2016 2:55PM
Photo: Tyler LaRiviere
The City of Chicago vowed on Sunday to remain a sanctuary city for undocumented immigrants, joining other cities that have pushed back against Donald Trump on the issue. Trump in September pledged to stop federal funding for so-called sanctuary cities.
"Since the Presidential Election, there has been a sense of uncertainty among many immigrant communities in Chicago and across the nation. I want to assure all of our families that Chicago is and will remain a Sanctuary City, said Mayor Emanuel in a statement on Sunday evening. Chicago has been a city of immigrants since it was founded. We have always welcomed people of all faiths and backgrounds, and while the administration will change, our values and our commitment to inclusion will not."
Trump has claimed that sanctuary cities protect violent immigrants (did you see that one coming?); and he said he would withhold federal dollars from noncompliant cities.
Block funding for sanctuary cities ... no more funding. We will end the sanctuary cities that have resulted in so many needless deaths," Trump said at a speech in September, according to CNN. "Cities that refuse to cooperate with federal authorities will not receive taxpayer dollars, and we will work with Congress to pass legislation to protect those jurisdictions that do assist federal authorities."
Emanuel and a group of aldermen are set to hold a press conference on Monday to discuss the statement and reiterate calls that Gov. Bruce Rauner also push back on Trumps sanctuary-related funding threat.
(Rauner) decided to play politics and talk about banning Syrian refugees well before the Trump campaign had taken off," said Ald. Ameya-Pawar (47th Ward) on Friday, according to the Sun-Times. My question is, where are you on this? Are you going to fight for the city and ensure that all of our funding stays in place because we are a sanctuary city? Are you going to stand up for Chicago and to a president-elect who is essentially threatening to eviscerate programs in major cities across America?
Other cities, including New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Minneapolis have made similar re-endorsements of their sanctuary status in recent days.
Kolkata: Criticising the demonetisation drive, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of insulting the poor by saying they are "sleeping peacefully".
Terming demonetisation as a "killer for (the) common people", she said that a staggering Rs 1.5 lakh crore of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) had been lost since this was announced a week ago.
"The PM said in his speech that the poor are sleeping peacefully. This is an insult to commoners and in bad taste," she tweeted.
Modi also said that it was those with ill-gotten money who were running from pillar to post and buying sleeping pills.
Banerjee called for an end to the demonetisation of 500 and 1,000 rupee notes.
"My humble suggestion is not to make the people suffer," she said. "This is a killer for the common people. The economy has already lost a staggering Rs 1.5 lakh crore in only six days."
She said economists had predicted that monetisation could lead to an onset of an economic recession.
"While common people have been victimised and crushed under weight of demonetisation, many economists now predicting an onset of recession," she added.
The PM in his speech had said the poor are sleeping peacefully. This is an insult to commoners and in bad taste 1/2 Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) November 14, 2016
My humble suggestion is not to hit the common people like this 2/2 Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) November 14, 2016
While common people have been victimised & crushed under weight of 'demonetisation', many economists now predicting onset of recession 1/2 Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) November 14, 2016
This will be a killer for the common people. Already a staggering Rs 1.5 lakh crore of GDP has been lost to the economy in only six days 2/2 Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) November 14, 2016
With inputs from IANS
Donald Trumps victory in the US presidential elections came as a total surprise not just for his opponent, Hillary Clinton, but even many of his supporters. If rumours are to be believed, Trump himself was in a subdued mood the whole evening until Florida turned in his favour. News of his success has been met with what can only be described as a meltdown among his detractors across the political spectrum. To be fair, Trump is certainly not the first unqualified occupant of the Oval Office; he may not even be the least qualified. The reason we feel his victory to be an affront to civilisation is that he is boorish insouciantly and publicly. Trump is an indication of all that is broken with America, not in just that people would vote for him but that they would be angry enough with the establishment to even consider such an obviously unfit character.
Given the United States' military and economic reach, Trumps victory will undoubtedly affect the world but thankfully less so than ordinary Americans. The question in this part of the world is, how will a Trump presidency affect India?
With its quasi-pivot to Asia, the United States has been heavily involved with several countries in Indias vicinity. Washingtons ties with Delhi have also gone from strength to strength since the George W Bush administration. Despite ebbs and flows, an Indo-US partnership has become a bipartisan issue. Nonetheless, Delhi and Washington have had difficulty seeing eye-to-eye on several points of mutual interest due to differing priorities. There is room for cautious optimism that Indo-US goals will align further under President Trump.
Trump is probably the first tenant of the White House who has had no experience whatsoever in public office, be it as a small town mayor, in the military, or elsewhere. As such, he comes to office with no ideological baggage one wonders if he has even seriously thought about some of Americas challenges to have definitive views on them. Even during the primaries and campaign, the then presidential candidate's responses to questions could only be described as abstract expressionism. In such an environment, it is difficult to predict what policies Trump will pursue.
There have been, however, a couple of motifs that have been consistent in his messaging. For example, he has repeatedly hinted at mending relations with Russia. According to Trump, the United States has been fighting an old Cold War they understand rather than the new Cold War they are in with China on which they are yet to get a grip. This bodes well for Delhi because it stops Vladimir Putin from being nudged into the embrace of Xi Jinping. Additionally, it allows India greater room in proposing important projects like the International North-South Trade Corridor that need Moscows support. A less antagonised Russian bear may even prove to be a useful ally against the Taliban, the ISI, and Islamic State (IS) in Afghanistan.
On Pakistan, Trump has promised a far tougher stand but he will be the first American president to deliver on such a promise. Despite several scholars disproving the mistaken American belief that the US needs Pakistan in that region, influential elements in the US government have been reluctant to jettison Islamabad even after many provocations. While a realistic US appraisal of Pakistan is something to look forward to, its historical probability is low.
There is a concern that the United States will shun their alliance responsibilities under Trump. This has been the indication with not just Nato but also in East Asia. However, the president-elect called the South Korean premier soon after the election results were confirmed to assure her of Americas continued support. In all likelihood, Trump would just like to see America's allies pull their weight a bit more. This is a complaint Washington has had for a long time, though what exactly pulling their weight would entail in terms of increased independence from alliance policies was never clear.
Trumps hawkish views on China reinforce the belief that he will not abandon US allies in the region. Admittedly, he has veered away from the traditional US course of discouraging independent nuclear arsenals. Yet this would also require willingness from the other side to embark on such an ambitious and politically fraught programme, something both sides may be able to ultimately avoid.
The future of trade pacts such as the Trans Pacific Partnership and TPIP are also unsure. They have been on weak legs even before the US election season but the incoming president's hostility to them is well known. He would either let negotiations lapse or at best reopen the technical aspects of the treaty for further discussions, thereby punting the TPP's coming into force down a few years until the end of his term or into his second term. Either way, this is good tidings for India, who would lose billions standing outside the pact. It allows Delhi's mandarins time to strategise a response, be it via joining the trade pact or bracing for the fallout by negotiating free trade agreements of its own.
Another area of concern is Trumps belief that Iran got off too lightly in the nuclear deal negotiated last year. He has done both, threatened to tear up the agreement and police it closely too. If Iran is baited out of the deal by an obstructionist Trump White House, it is not sure how much support from the world community further sanctions on Iran will have. This could get thorny for India but this is not a purely Trump problem Republicans have been saying similar things ever since negotiations began. India will have to persuade its American partner of the wisdom of restraint and the favourable ripples it could have in other hotspots such as Syria.
The most visible feature of Indo-US relations arms sales and joint military exercises will most certainly not go wanting. Defence stocks are up in the United States after Trumps victory as the budgetary cuts enacted by his predecessor are thought to be on the chopping block. Foreign sales will make domestic defence spending more affordable and India is keen to modernise its military. Beyond the monetary aspect, it also makes little sense for the United States to plan a more robust policy in East Asia while discouraging local partners to take a more proactive role in what will always primarily be their security. Washingtons most reliable partners will be those most concerned and powerless in the face of China's rise, the states around the Indo-Pacific Ocean rim and warmer relations with Russia will not be of much use here.
Perhaps the greatest tussle will be over the economy, but that is also a mixed bag while Trump has promised to curb immigration and slash the H1B skilled worker visas, he has also called India a land of economic opportunity and even invested in some real estate in the country. Trump will, like previous administrations, pressure India on opening up its economy further and doing more to protect intellectual property. The question is how much effort he will put into this challenging aspect of Indo-US relations.
All this assumes, of course, a certain modicum of rationality, a desire to deliver on election promises made, and a sound staff probably taken from the Bush years. But Trump is a neophyte to this stage and all bets could be off in which case much of this speculative exercise could be just gibberish and we are in for a very bumpy ride over the next four years.
The recent robust steps in demonetisation undertaken by the Government of India to unearth black money, inter alia, also throws up impediments to those external hostile quarters who are actively engaged in paralysing Indian economy and financing Fake Indian Currency Note (FICN) chiefly for terror-financing. These steps are expected to deal a severe blow to such actors and their machinations.
The modus operandi of terror financing has hitherto been to use formal and non-formal banking channels, money value transfer services, NPO or NGO sectors, real estate, government funds etc.
It is hoped that the current measures to curb terror financing will prove as an effective deterrent and will contain the ongoing menace. FICN is smuggled via the land, sea and air routes. According to authoritative sources, the trend in circulation of FICN is principally from Pakistan to West Asian countries and Bangladesh. Also, from Gulf countries to Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia and Sri Lanka. FICN is further smuggled into India from these countries .
It's interesting to note that value of FICN in circulation was estimated to be Rs 400 crore and importantly, the value had remained stationary for the past four years.
Meanwhile, attempts are being made by inimical forces to infuse FICN worth Rs 70 crore into the Indian economy annually. Out of this figure, a third of the FICN being infused is seized. The detection rate of fake Rs 100 and Rs 500 notes was around the same, and higher than the detection of Rs 1,000 notes by around 10 percent.
To contain this threat, the Indian establishment, seeking international cooperation, has aligned with Bangladesh forming a Joint Task Force through SoP and MoU. In 2015-2016, Bangladeshi authorities, in a major operational drive, arrested seven Pakistanis and seized FICN amounting to Rs 14,12,30,000. This is no mean statistic.
The NIA has been actively working towards reaching the bottom of the problem as as part its campaign. FICN kingpin Mozzamel Haque, a Bangladeshi, was arrested in December 2015 confirming the Bangladeshi nexus.
The most significant feature of the whole nefarious syndicated network is the role of Pakistan deserving universal condemnation.
Undoubtedly, Pakistan is the main source of printing of high quality FICN. Such super-high quality currency printing machines cannot be in the possession of an individual or with an organised group. These sophisticated machines are available only with an established government.
We can, therefore, safely infer that Pakistan, as part of its state policy, is printing high quality FICN aimed at undermining credibility of Indian currency notes, ostensibly to fund terrorism.
These arguments are further buttressed by the fact that a majority of those arrested in smuggling and circulating FICN in Southeast Asia and India's neighbouring countries (especially Bangladesh) are Pakistani nationals.
Through a professional investigation carried out recently, there were unique similarities between FICN samples and Pakistan's legal tender, strongly confirming Pakistan as the main source of FICN.
Bangladeshis and villages on the border with Bangladesh too have been active in these crimes. Out of 18 cases of FICN, eight cases are crucially traced to Bangladeshi borders. Three Bangladeshis involved in the FICN racket are still at large. Seizures of FICN have been mainly carried out at the borders of Bongaon (in West Bengal), Shillong, South Garo Hills and Malda among other points. These prove that India-Bangladesh borders are active conduits in this trade .
A quick glance at the trends in FICN circulation reveals that originating in Pakistan, it reaches Dubai and as per the criminal cases registered, the network was traced to Kerala and Hyderabad. Simultaneously, Dubai to Sri Lanka is also a favoured route. A Sri Lankan named Abdullah Mutsari was detained in Sri Lanka with FICN worth Rs 2 crore. From Bangladesh FICN was circulated to the states of Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka. In addition to these, Indian investigators have successfully found out that from Nepal, FICN regularly reached Jamnagar (the police had seized FICN worth Rs 1.26 lakh there), Ahmedabad and Siddharthnagar among other locations.
Now that it's proven beyond doubt about the Pakistani State's complicity in engineering such a vast FICN network to subvert the Indian economy and fund terror, the government attempted to demonetise and introduce currency of newer denominations with changed hallmarks. It has to be closely monitored as to how Pakistan now moulds its blueprint to continue with the FICN flow.
Recent Indian steps must be a dampener, albeit for the time-being, to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence and its collaborators as they have been caught by surprise. Nevertheless, Indian agencies should not lower their collective guard and be prepared to foil any Pakistani designs to fund terror with FICN .
On Pakistan's part, it is highly unlikely it will easily abandon its acts of terror-funding as it enjoys complete State patronage and its agenda to hit its adversary hard. Hence for India, it calls for more stepped-up intelligence.
The author is a retired IPS officer and a security analyst. Views are personal
Srinagar: Stirring the hornet's nest, the ruling People Democratic Party (PDP) said on Sunday that the four months of civilian unrest in Kashmir valley was a conspiracy to dethrone Mehbooba Mufti and her PDP-BJP coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir. They also added that who died during the agitation were innocent.
Senior party leader and MP, Muzaffar Hussain Baig said the party will not be cowed down by "nefarious designs aimed at our economic subjugation, degradation of ethics and values".
These four months were the most dark and oppressive months. But God is witness that it was a conspiracy against Mehboobaji. It was a conspiracy to defame PDP. They conspired to kill Burhan (Wani). May Allah have maghfirat (for dead) ... they took a man's life to dislodge Mehboobaji," Baig said while addressing a gathering outside the party headquarters in Srinagar, without naming anyone.
Baig's comments on the civilian killings in Kashmir over the last four months are in sharp contrast with the position that PDP president Mehbooba Mufti has taken on the issue. She had said that those who died during clashes with security forces "had not gone to buy toffees or milk".
In a show of strength at a time when Kashmir is reeling under shutdowns and curfew, this was the first ever public rally by the PDP, which has faced criticism from all sides for civilian casualties and failing to contain the agitation following the killing of the Hizbul Mujahideen commander in early July.
The PDP leaders who addressed the gathering underscored the need to push the agenda of peace and development through reconciliation and dialogue. The PDP leaders, once again, tried to impress that if there was ever a prime minister in India who not just enjoyed the mandate of the people but had the capacity and will, it was Prime Minister Narendra Modi who, they said, can address the vexed issue of Kashmir.
We have not aligned for the sake of chair. We know if there is any Prime Minister who is going to solve the problem of Kashmir, it is Modi. It is our Agenda of Alliance that has kept us intact. If our agenda is bypassed, we will throw this chair on that very same day, Baig said to a thundering applause.
Sundays rally comes at a time when the separatist leadership, spearheading a four month long agitation against New Delhi, is struggling to keep the momentum alive with the vehicular traffic slowly returning to the roads in many parts of capital Srinagar and other towns and villages of Kashmir, despite calls of shutdown by the Hurriyat.
At least 94 people have been killed in 128 days of unrest in the Valley following the killing of Burhan Wani on 8 July. Thousands, including security forces, have been injured in clashes between forces and protesters. According to doctors, over 1,100 protesters suffered injuries in eyes due to pellets. Addressing the gathering, Baig said Kashmir issue will be solved only by your votes and not by stone pelting. Those who have lost their lives were innocent people and they hardly knew what they were doing.
PM Modi went without an invitation to Pakistan and sat with Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif because he had promised PDP that he would take the dialogue forward. But Pakistan reciprocated by attacking Pathankot. How are cordial relations possible in such atmosphere? But still we believe the dialogue is the only way forward, he said.
The two countries cant prosper until they resolve the Kashmir dispute and it was for this purpose that our party came into being-to resolve this conundrum.
Taking a dig at Hurriyat Conference, Baig, while pointing towards the flea market which was thronged by hundreds of people on Sunday, said the people have told the Hurriyat that they are not with 'Hartal politics'. This is a mazaq (joke). There is no hartal (strike)," he said, pointing towards shoppers in the market.
Earlier, the Hurriyat Conference had hit out at the PDP, terming the party as a "local stooge" of "Indian rulers" whose "hollow slogans of religious freedom, individual liberties and equal rights is nothing but the age old deceitful slogans of the imperialistic mind set which they have been using to fool others.
The Hurriyat Conference said the local government has purposefully joined hands with the preachers of Hindutva to implement the Nagpur agenda. They have waged war against the whole community by forcefully preventing people from their prayers.
The PDP, however, called upon all the stakeholders to focus on political means and through the medium of well-established democratic institutions to "wriggle the state out from the brink of abyss".
Manohar Parrikar often finds himself in the news for the wrong reasons. A seemingly harmless book launch presented the latest opportunity for the Indian defence minister to enjoy some limelight yet again. However, at least this time, the brouhaha was entirely manufactured with little reason in sight.
In what appears to be a response to a question at the launch of The New Arthashastra: A Security Strategy for India, Parrikar expressed the view that the logic of a well-defined and written security doctrine eluded him.
#WATCH: Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar answers a question on nuclear strategy pic.twitter.com/1f0lTJaJw9 ANI (@ANI_news) November 10, 2016
Why would one, he pondered out loud, not only restrict oneself to a set of responses but also open up the playbook to one's enemy? Parrikar gave the example of nuclear policy why would India tie itself down to a nuclear no-first-use (NFU) position? In his view, India's leaders should merely state that India is a responsible nuclear weapons state and any potential use would be after careful deliberation.
The defence minister was vehement in declaring these views to be his private thoughts and that the countrys nuclear policy had not changed. In fact, he went as far as predicting, half jokingly, that it would be splayed all across newspapers the next day that a change in doctrine had been made. He was not wrong within minutes of his comments hitting Twitter, policy wonks were condemning his casual attitude towards nuclear deterrence and even the thought of straying from a nuclear NFU.
Parrikar's most egregious sin appears to have simply been that his views were not popular among those who would don the hat of experts; nothing the defence minister said was actually either surprising or extraordinary. Given the situation, the criticism levelled against Parrikar comes off as petty and motivated.
First, the accusation that the minister should not have aired his personal opinion on so sensitive a subject it should be noted that even as he answered the question asked of him, Parrikar categorically stated that there was no doctrinal shift and he was only expressing his views as an individual. It was not a later clarification by his office to put the minister in the clear.
More to the point, is it surprising that not just the defence minister but even several other senior officials in the present regime may have private views that differ from the stated government policy? After all, this administration saw it fit to include the country's nuclear doctrine in its election manifesto surely there would be a few who question the wisdom of the present strategy? And if so, what delicate balance has been upset if these doubts are expressed right alongside a disclaimer that no strategic shift has been envisaged in the short term?
Second, Parrikar has been skewered for doubting the value of a nuclear NFU and his preference for ambiguity has been derided as confusion. The nuclear NFU has become almost an article of faith among Western think tankers, though the United States has refused to adopt such a posture itself despite an overwhelming conventional superiority over most of its rivals. British and French nuclear postures are also more ambiguous on the matter than Chinese or Indian nuclear doctrines.
It is commonly acknowledged that India needs to revise its doctrine that has lain virtually unchanged since its formulation soon after the Pokhran II nuclear tests. The opposition, however, is to abandoning the NFU. Indian planners cannot take such objections seriously for the only posture that will satisfy some corners is unilateral and unconditional nuclear disarmament. Instead, Delhi must look to the peculiarities of its threat matrix and decide upon a strategy that suits the subcontinent best.
For example, Parrikar has a valid point when he says that an unequivocal NFU restricts his options in case of war; it would be like showing the enemy your playbook. Instead, a defensive-use-only posture might offer the desired flexibility and ambiguity while retaining some degree of responsibility. Some of these decisions will need to take into account other factors, such as the extent of Indian conventional superiority over its likely foes, its ability to manufacture reliable and accurate tactical nuclear weapons, and a clear understanding of its objectives in various scenarios.
Admittedly, these are conversations to be had in private but there is little stability to lose before a country that has on umpteen occasions nonchalantly expressed its willingness to use nuclear weapons as a first resort. The sort of stability international scholars advocate is laudable but can only be achieved with mature states. A nuclear NFU and a clearly articulated military doctrine are indeed excellent confidence building measures but they must be deserved, not exploited.
The real tragedy of this little non-incident is that it is a reminder of Indias inability to think and act strategically towards long-term objectives, the aversion of the state's holy cows to expert scrutiny, and a bureaucratic opacity that would make Brussels proud. Though the Indian defence minister raised some pertinent questions on Indias nuclear doctrine, it is unlikely that much comes of it.
Patna: A day ahead of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's 'Lok Samvad' to seek suggestions on liquor law, BJP on Sunday aired its 'objections' to some of the "draconian" and "Talibani" provisions of the law.
"After the Patna High court dismissed the old and draconian liquor law (Bihar Excise (Amendment) Act, 2016), the Bihar government has sought suggestions from public to bring amendments to the new liquor law (Bihar Prohibition & Excise Act, 2016) to stand legal scrutiny in the Supreme Court," senior Bihar BJP leader Sushil Kumar Modi said in a statement.
BJP, the principal opposition, has been in support of the liquor law from day one but it was opposed to some of the draconian and Talibani provisions of the law, Sushil Modi, the former Deputy Chief Minister said.
The party has already given its suggestions in both the houses of state legislature for bringing amendments into the provisions of the existing liquor, he said.
The provisions on which the party has severe objections included imposition of collective fine, Sushil Modi said while suggesting that action must be taken against the erring person but the entire village cannot be held guilty for the fault committed by some.
Similarly, the quantum of punishment must be in conformity with the crime, he said adding that liquor law has provisions which are even harsher than the crime for murder and rape.
Sending entire family to the jail in the event of recovery of an empty bottle besides seizure of the premises for recovery of a liquor bottle are harsher provisions which must be done away with, Modi said.
The BJP leader asked when there is a prohibition in the state, what is the point in exporting liquor to other states, and suggested the state government should come out with provisions to compensate those who invested in the liquor industry as per the government's policy.
"Although, the government has not invited BJP to the Lok Samvad programme but despite this, we are reiterating our suggestions through media," Modi said.
CM Nitish Kumar would interact with people on Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act, 2016 during his Lok Samvad programme on Monday.
A number of people have sent their feedback to the state government on prohibition in Bihar.
The Bihar government had invited suggestions on the provisions of Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act, 2016 between 1 and 13 November.
Kumar, however, dismissed speculations of the state moving back on the new liquor law and asserted that there was no question of "diluting" the law after advertisements of excise department appeared seeking public opinion on it.
CM's remarks had come in the wake of excise department's advertisement in newspapers seeking opinion of the public on Prohibition and Excise Act, 2016 that was notified on 2 October.
So Just How Much Pizza Did Chicago Scarf Down During The World Series?
By Anthony Todd in Food on Nov 14, 2016 7:27PM
Giordano's Celebration Pizza. Photo via Facebook.
By Calley Nelson
Any event that produces what was professed to be the seventh-largest gathering in human history to celebrate has got to have some ancillary effects, right? How about pizza delivery? Can you imagine how much pizza must have been ordered during those final Cubs games?
Well, rather than imagine, we asked some of largest pizza places in Chicago to tell us how much pizza Chicago managed to eat. Four Chicago Pizza joints reported unprecedented, record-breaking sales during the final games of the World Series. We talked to them about the lines, orders and celebration leading up to the Cubs big win.
Lou Malnatis, River North, 439 N Wells St.
Appeal: A tourist and family favorite for deep-dish.
Busiest game: 10/28
Sales: The River North location catered huge orders to downtown Chicago businesses during the parade. One company ordered over $5,000 worth of pizza!
Craziest happening: Lou Malnatis won a few bets on the cubs winning the World Series: the owner of a Cleveland pizzeria poured sauce on his head after the Indians loss and the Archdiocese of Cleveland ordered pizza for more than 100 underserved Chicagoans.
Dimos, Lakeview, 3463 N Clark St.
Appeal: Late night vegan or mac & cheese slices.
Busiest game: 10/28 through 10/30
Sales: Over 7,000 slices were sold during the three World Series home games.
Craziest happening: People ordering whole pizzas from the bathroom line outside the restaurant.
Bacci Pizza, Lakeview, 950 W Addison St.
Appeal: Jumbo pepperoni and sausage slices an arms length from Wrigley Field.
Busiest games: 10/25 and 11/2.
Sales: Nearly 11,000 slices were served.
Craziest happening: People waited more than 30 minutes for a single slice. One man who patiently waited his turn ordered 16 jumbo slices then dropped them all on the floor.
Giordanos, Lakeview, 1040 W Belmont Ave.
Appeal: The Chicago Cubs team favorite.
Busiest game: 11/2.
Sales: W and Cubs-branded pizzas sold out three times, then the Cubs themselves ordered 600 pizzas.
Craziest happening: The staff ended up delivering pizza ordered in the Lakeview neighborhood on foot.
The demonetisation drive of the Narendra Modi government is expected to flush out black money. By demonetising Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes, the government has rendered illegal 86 percent of the currency in circulation, totaling Rs 14.2 lakh crore.
Most analysts believe that after the demonetisation drive is over, and the last date of December 30 has been crossed, the RBI may actually find that 30 percent of the Rs 14.2 lakh crore did not get deposited in banks. Thus, this would be the money that could not get laundered.
In effect, the entire demonetisation drive is expected to achieve two concrete results. First, it would allow the RBI to write off Rs 5 lakh crore, and thus reduce the quantum of black money floating around in cash by the same amount. Second, it would get around Rs 9 lakh crore into bank deposits. The governments expectation is that this money could be harnessed for productive purposes, and the black money ogre would have been controlled.
Really?
Figures that are already in public domain show that the entire demonetisation exercise could have been avoided. The government could have unearthed a lot more black money and filled its coffers with much more money had it just followed up on the accounts filed by around 8 lakh assessees.
Who are the 8 lakh assessees? Just look at the table below, and you will see how the number of people who filed income tax returns declaring agricultural income swelled from 2.46 lakh assesssees in 2009 to 4.25 lakh in 2010 to 6.56 lakh in 2011 and then to 8.12 lakh people in 2012. The agricultural income bit is extremely important, because all agricultural income is totally exempt from income tax.
Since many of the assessees of 2009 are also likely to have filed their returns in the subsequent years, one can safely assume that the total number of assessees whose returns need to be examined will be just around 8 lakh.
But who are these 8 lakh people? That is something we do not know. All that we know is that the total income declared by them in 2011 and 2012 was a stupefying Rs 874 lakh crore. That represents over 125 years of total taxes garnered by the government in any given year. The average income declared by each assessee during those years was an equally unbelievable Rs 30 crore and Rs 80 crore respectively. Obviously, even if you take the most fertile land with the most expensive crop, average incomes of Rs 80 crore are not easy to come by. Something is amiss.
Even if one assumes that only 30 percent of the amounts declared were roped in as taxes, the government would have got Rs 262 lakh crore. That would have been higher than the Rs 5 lakh crore the government hopes to impound as black money and the Rs 9 lakh crore it hopes to garner by way of incremental deposits.
What this means is that instead of pursuing 8 lakh people, the government decided to target 1.25 billion people.
In fact, the entire saga of these agricultural income declarations would not have come to light, had it not been for an RTI request filed by the former I-T officer.
The retired Income Tax (I-T) officer Vijay Sharma decided to file an RTI (Right to Information) request for disclosing the names of people who had filed agricultural income returns for (you wont believe this) Rs 2,000 lakh crore. The figures he got showed an exponential increase from 2004 to 2013, touching a total of almost Rs 2,000 lakh crore. He then asked the income department to release the names of the top 100 names of the people who had filed such returns. His request was denied. He then decided to file a public interest litigation (PIL) petition with the Patna High Court in Bihar. This matter was duly reported by media in March 2016. The court was supposed to hear the petition in April this year. But there is no further news from that front.
Almost simultaneously, the Income Tax Department gave out a different set of figures (see table) which was dutifully reported by the media.
More interestingly, on 10 March 2016, the IT department sent out a circular (LETTER F.NO.DGIT(S)/DIT(S)-3/AST/PIL MATTER/AGRICULTURAL INCOME/97/2015-16) to all its offices stating the following:
Kindly refer to subject matter.
2. It has been noticed that several assesses have declared income from agriculture of more than Rs 1 crore in the income tax return filed for earlier years especially from AYs. 2011-12 to 2013-14.
3. In this regard, there is a PIL matter pending before Honble Patna High Court wherein concerns have been raised that a few assesses may be engaged in routing their unaccounted/illegal money in the garb of agricultural income thereby not only claiming exemptions on such income but also engaged in the money laundering activities.
4. Since agricultural income is only used for rate purposes, it was noticed that in a few such high value cases, taxpayers may have inadvertently made data entry errors while filling up the fields for agricultural income.
5. Therefore, it is requested that the assessing officers may be directed to
(i) Verify whether the taxpayer may have made a data entry error while filling up the return.
(ii) Wherever scrutiny assessment is completed, AO may provide feedback based on assessment records.
(iii) In cases where proceedings u/s 143(3) are pending, assessing officers may be informed to thoroughly verify the claims.
6. The list of cases having agriculture income more than Rs.1 Crore along with jurisdictional details is placed at itaxnet at the following path :
Resources Downloads Systems Verification of Agriculture-Income
You are requested to kindly send a status report in this regard after verification as mentioned above. This feedback may be urgently provided to this Directorate before March 20th, 2016 so that we can report the correct figures of claims of agricultural income to the Honble Patna High Court.
7. This issues with the approval of Pr. DGIT(S).
To date, there has been no further information on this subject. Nor is it known whether the declarations are indeed agricultural income, or whether they have sought refuge under the taxpayers may have inadvertently made data entry errors.
The only statement was one made by Union agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh in the last week of May 2016, that there is no plan to tax agricultural income. And just yesterday, while addressing a rally of farmers in Maharashtra, Prime minister Modi also reiterated that there would be no tax on agricultural income.
But that raises two questions. First, do the returns filed actually represent agricultural income? Should the onus of proving that it is indeed agricultural income rest on the assessees since there were voluntary returns filed by them? Second, if they are mis-declarations, shouldnt the minimum tax of 30 percent be levied on them along with applicable penalties as well?
The government is silent. So is P. Chidambaram, who was minister of finance at the time these huge amounts were declared as agricultural income. As a result all people suffer from the consequences of demonetisation that could have been avoided by just targeting some 8 lakh people.
The research pertaining to the data contained within the above piece may be found at this location
Delhi: Next years National Film Awards are going to be slightly different: Along with the actors, various politicians are going to be in the running for the best actor award. All the politicians who are on record praising the decision to ban old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes will be in consideration for this award.
This was confirmed to Faking News by a source at the directorate of film festivals. Politicians from the ruling coalition will get extra credit for their acting.
We realised that we cant restrict ourselves to films alone, acting is acting, no matter where you do it. These politicians are in front of a camera, they are saying they are happy with this step against black money, this is top class acting. Even Leonardo diCaprio will give his Oscar to these guys if he sees this excellent performance, an official at the directorate said.
Read the full story here
New Delhi: An emergency session of the Delhi Assembly has been convened on Tuesday to discuss the "explosive" situation arising out of demonetisation, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday even as he attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his 'kadak chai' remark saying the poor was being "fed poison" instead.
Kejriwal said, considering the hardship being faced by people, the Delhi government has decided to deploy civil defence volunteers who will provide citizens queueing up outside banks and ATMs with water and refreshments, while also assisting them with paper work.
Sticking to his demand that demonetisation be rolled back, the AAP chief lashed out at Modi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, saying the Centre has lost "all sense of proportion due to lack of any concrete plan in executing the scheme."
"The situation is just the opposite of what the Prime Minister said. The poor are not sleeping. They are spending nights outside banks. Only Modiji's friends are having good sleep. He has made the poor drink poison in the name of strong tea 'kadak chai'," Kejriwal said.
Earlier in the day, while addressing a rally in Ghazipur in Uttar Pradesh, Modi said "My decision is a little harsh. When I was young, poor people used to ask for 'kadak' (strong) tea but it spoils the mood of rich."
The Delhi Chief Minister said he was pained to see people struggle for cash to buy basic necessities like food items and medicines, adding government was exploring options to arrange cooked food for those in need.
"We have also asked the Divisional Commissioner to explore in the next two to three days the possibility of arranging food through 'langar's for those who are having to starve due to lack of hard cash," Kejriwal said.
The Delhi Health secretary has also been directed to ensure that there is no shortage in city government-run hospitals, Kejriwal said. The Cabinet meet was attended by ministers and top officials including the Chief Secretary.
He is likely to meet his Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee, who has also been vociferously opposing the measure, when she arrives in New Delhi on Tuesday, Kejriwal said.
"It is simply a mechanism to transfer 50 per cent of the country's total black money to BJP's accounts. The intention is UP polls. They would have arrested swiss bank account holders and manufacturers of counterfeit currency had they wanted to act against black economy," he said.
Kejriwal said the Delhi government was exploring accepting Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes in Delhi's pavilion at the International Trade Fair but decided against it as any such decision falls under the jurisdiction of the Centre.
"The amount of corruption and black money generated in the last four days has surpassed the amount that was amassed in the last four months. The scheme has acted as a tonic for racketeers and brokers.
"He (Modi) has three best friends Ambani, Adani and Sharad Pawar. He took Pawar's blessings to fight black money yesterday. There cannot be a bigger irony.
"Modiji talks of arranging a wedding in Rs 24,000. How much money was spent in Jaitleyji's daughter's wedding? They spend in crores and ask us to spend Rs 24,000," he said, flashing a Rs 50 note at the end of the presser, saying "this is all what I am left with".
The Delhi Chief Minister said the scheme could have been implemented in a better way and wondered why the country's 125 crore people were being targeted instead of the "few lakhs".
"How are the traders going to continue their business when the withdrawal limit is so low. What about the farmers who are supposed to harvest their crop in the next one week," he asked.
Mumbai: Rahul Gandhi is expected to attend the proceedings in a court in Bhiwandi, on Wednesday in a criminal defamation case filed against him for claiming, at a 2014 election rally, that the RSS had killed Mahatma Gandhi.
The case against the Congress vice president was filed by a local RSS functionary.
Rahul, who is scheduled to arrive in the city on Tuesday evening, will proceed to Bhiwandi in neighbouring Thane district on Wednesday morning to attend the court proceedings beginning at 10 am, Mumbai Congress chief Sanjay Nirupam said.
"Since our leader is arriving in the city, the party workers will welcome him at the airport," he said.
Addressing a rally in the run-up to the 2014 general elections in the powerloom town on the outskirts of Mumbai, Rahul had claimed, "The RSS people had killed Gandhi."
He had, on 1 September, preferred to face the trial as an accused in the defamation case for his remark against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, submitting before the Supreme Court that he stood by "every word" of his statement.
The Congress vice president expressed his readiness to face the trial after the apex court refused to interfere with the criminal proceedings pending against him before the trial court.
Rahul then withdrew the appeal filed by him against the Bombay High Court judgment refusing to quash the defamation case and summons issued to him by the trial court.
The apex court also declined Rahul's plea that he be exempted from personal appearance before the Bhiwandi court which had taken cognizance of the complaint of an RSS functionary by summoning him as an accused in the case.
BEIRUT Air strikes hit two hospitals in rebel-held territory west of the embattled Syrian city of Aleppo on Monday, and a number of patients and medics were wounded, a monitor and doctor said. Western countries and human rights activists have accused the air forces of the Damascus government and its Russian ally of repeatedly targeting hospitals, bread lines and other civilian infrastructure in territory controlled by the rebels. Both Moscow and Damascus have denied doing so and say their air campaign is directed against military targets belonging to the rebels, who they describe as terrorists. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, said warplanes pounded the town of Atareb overnight and into Monday, knocking the hospital out of service.There were five air strikes on the hospital that destroyed operations and waiting rooms and damaged ambulances in what was the fourth aerial attack on the facility this year, according to the Observatory. It was the sole hospital in Atareb and at least 60,000 people live in the town and surrounding area, it said.
The strikes injured many patients, said Osama Abo Ezz, a general surgeon and Aleppo coordinator for the Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS), which partially supports the hospital. "They were at the hospital for check-ups," he said. Warplanes also hit and disabled Ansar hospital in Kafrnaha, 15 km (10 miles) from Atareb, marking the third air strike on that facility in the past month, the Observatory said.There were no initial reports of deaths in either attack.
Adham Sahloul, a SAMS advocacy officer, said there have been seven attacks on hospitals in rural districts of Aleppo and Idlib provinces since Friday. While Syrian and Russian authorities have denied any deliberate targeting of hospitals, Moscow's deputy foreign minister accused rebels recently of using civilians and "so-called hospitals" as human shields and setting up medical facilities in cities without correctly marking them.
Rebels, supported by Turkey, the U.S. and Gulf monarchies, are fighting to oust President Bashar al-Assad, whose military, backed by Russia's air force, has used jet and helicopter strikes extensively in the five-and-a-half-year war.On Monday, insurgents clashed in a town near the Turkish border as inter-rebel tensions spilled over, playing to Assad's advantage with the government tightening its grip on the rebel-held eastern half of Aleppo.The conflict has killed hundreds of thousands of people, left half the country's pre-war population homeless, dragged in global powers and given space to Islamist militant groups to consolidate their organisations and plan attacks abroad. (Reporting by Ellen Francis; Editing by Mark Heinrich)
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New York: President-elect Donald Trump vowed Sunday to move aggressively on a conservative agenda in filling Supreme Court vacancies, cracking down on immigration and cutting taxes, but also sought to reassure worried Americans they have nothing to fear from his presidency.
Setting aside the strident tone of his campaign, the 70-year-old Trump assumed a gentler manner in his first television interview since his shock election, saying he was "saddened" by reports of harassment of Muslims and Hispanics, and telling the perpetrators: "Stop It."
The interview with CBS's 60 Minutes, which was taped Friday and aired in full Sunday, offered Trump an opportunity to reintroduce himself after an ugly, name-calling campaign and surprise victory that sparked protests in cities across the United States.
"I just don't think they know me," the billionaire real estate mogul said at one point, of the thousands of protesters who have massed in streets below his Trump Tower headquarters with signs that read "Not our president."
Told that many Americans are scared of his presidency, Trump said: "Don't be afraid. We are going to bring our country back."
Conservative agenda
On the issues, however, Trump made it clear he intends to aggressively push a right-wing agenda, pledging to name justices to the Supreme Court who are anti-abortion and pro-gun rights.
"The judges will be pro-life," Trump told CBS. "In terms of the whole gun situation," he added, "they're going to be very pro-Second Amendment."
He will have an immediate opportunity to fill a vacancy on the court left by the death of arch conservative justice Antonin Scalia. President Barack Obama's attempt to fill the seat was blocked by the Republican-controlled Senate.
On immigration, Trump reaffirmed his signature campaign pledge to build a wall on the border with Mexico, although he conceded parts of it may be just a fence.
And he said as many as three million undocumented immigrants with criminal records would be deported or incarcerated.
"What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers," he said.
"We have a lot of these people, probably two million, it could be even three million, we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate," he said.
Conciliatory notes
He left the door open, however, on the fate of the millions of other hard-working immigrants in the country illegally.
"After the border is secured and after everything gets normalized, we're going to make a determination on the people that you're talking about who are terrific people," he said.
Immigration, he said, was one of three top legislative priorities he has discussed with House Speaker Paul Ryan, the others being action to undo Obama's signature health care reform and a bill to cut taxes and simplify the tax code.
Trump had previously indicated he would keep some aspects of Obamacare, including a ban on insurance companies denying coverage for pre-existing conditions.
There were other conciliatory notes as well.
He signalled that he would not seek to overturn the legalization of same-sex marriage in the United States.
"It's law. It was settled in the Supreme Court. I mean its done," Trump said when asked if he supports marriage equality. "And I'm I'm fine with that," he added.
He also confirmed he would forego the $400,000 salary that comes with the office of US president.
"I'm not going to take the salary. I'm not taking it," he said. "I think I have to by law take $1, so I'll take $1 a year," he added.
Conspiracy-mongering
Earlier Sunday, Trump made his first high level appointments, naming anti-establishment firebrand Steve Bannon his top strategist and top Republican Reince Priebus his White House chief of staff.
The choices suggested Trump, a political novice, intends for his new administration to preserve the populist edge that won him the White House, tempered by political pragmatism.
Priebus, head of the Republican National Committee, is a seasoned political operative with close ties to Ryan, the House speaker.
But Bannon, the campaign chairman in the final months of the Trump campaign, is CEO of the right-wing, conspiracy-mongering Breitbart News website known for withering attacks on the Republican elite.
It has also likened abortions to a "Holocaust," railed against Muslim immigrants, and once advised female victims of online harassment to "just log off" and stop "screwing up the internet for men," illustrating that point with a picture of a crying child.
In the 60 Minutes interview, Trump made no promises to tone down his own rhetoric as president.
"I don't want to be just a little nice monotone character," he said.
Newt Gingrich, a member of Trump's inner circle, said he would advise the president-elect to "swing for the fences."
"This is a city which if you don't shove it as hard as you can while you have momentum, it will just surround you. I mean, the swamp doesn't want to be drained. And the swamp will just suck you in if you let it," he said on CBS's Face the Nation.
Despondent Democrats are vowing resistance despite now being locked out of power not only in the House and Senate, but now in the White House as well.
"Our job now is to hold him accountable," said Bernie Sanders, who lost to Hillary Clinton in the Democratic nomination race.
Trump's Win Could Halt Police Reform Efforts In Chicago
By Emma G. Gallegos in News on Nov 14, 2016 7:43PM
Last year's Laquan McDonald protest (Photo by Braden Nesin/Chicagoist)
One of the most concrete ways that Donald Trump's presidency could affect Chicago almost overnight is in its efforts to reform its police department. The Department of Justice opened an investigation into the city's police department last year in the wake of a video showing Laquan McDonald being gunned down police.
As with many aspects of his campaign, Trump has offered few specific policy details on the subject of law enforcement. During his debates with Hillary Clinton, he repeated that he was the "law and order" candidate and expressed an admiration for racist "stop and frisk" policies that have been deemed unconstitutional. But everyone is expecting big changes when Trump is sworn into office:
The DOJ is about to be blown apart.I hope #Baltimore gets away from the pandering of community policing and back to focused enforcement. Tony Barksdale (@deputybarksdale) November 9, 2016
Even though Chicago's crime issues have become something of a punching bag for Republicans and Trump himself, the president-elect has said that the federal government should take a more hands-off approach to local law enforcement. In a written response to questions from the International Association of Chiefs of Police (pdf), he wrote, "National attention does not mean national involvement of the federal government. If a state or local jurisdiction asks for help from the Department of Justice or other federal agency, then my administration will assist. Otherwise, local issues should remain local."
This approach would represent a 180-degree turn from the Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division under Obama. His administration has used its executive power to go after local police departments accused of violating civil rights more aggressively than either Bill Clinton or George W. Bushparticularly since the death of Michael Brown in Ferguson at the hands of police and the ensuing riots in 2014, according to the Guardian.
Decrees that are already in place in cities like Miami, Newark and Seattle would be to reverse and would likely to continue under Trump, William Yeomans, a former senior official of the Civil Rights Division, told The Marshall Project.
However, he says ongoing investigations into cities like Chicago or Baltimore could be dropped or drastically reduced in scope. This especially true given the kinds of candidates that have been shortlisted for U.S. Attorney General, like Rudy Giuliani, Chris Christie and Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi. Yeomans told The Marshall Project, "I can't imagine anyone less sympathetic to police enforcement to Giuliani."
If the current administration hurries up and finishes its report on Chicago and other cities by January, experts say it would be tough for the incoming administration to ignore. Former federal prosecutor Jeffrey Cramer tells WBEZ, "At that that point the new administration is going to have a pretty scathing report, and its going to be dumped in their lap. And its going to be pretty hard to ignore that no matter who the attorney general is."
If the Obama administration doesn't finish up their report in time, that could leave Chicago's efforts at police reform in limbo. Mayor Emanuel initially balked at federal oversight before he changed his mind. That's not surprising given that Emanuel likely suppressed the release of the Laquan McDonald tape until after a bruising reelection.
Chicago Police Board President Lori Lightfoot told WBEZ that she believes reform efforts will continue no matter what happens at the DOJ. But Cramer says federal pressure is necessary to make lasting change in the department: "The Emanuel administration can try and put through certain things...but at the end of the day, its going to be hard to implement the necessary changes around police reform without a federal judge, a federal consent decree and a monitor...being implemented by the federal government."
ERBIL, Iraq A mixed Kurdish and Yazidi armed force said on Monday it had dislodged Islamic State (IS) militants from five Yazidi villages west of Mosul in an offensive that began on Saturday. It coincided with a larger, ongoing Iraqi government and Kurdish offensive to recapture Mosul, Iraq's second largest city, from IS with aerial support from the U.S.-led military coalition. Iranian-backed Shi'ite Muslim militias are also in the Mosul campaign, battling IS to the west of the city.Islamic State overran the five villages in 2014 when it swept over Sinjar mountain and the surrounding region inhabited by Yazidis, killing, capturing and enslaving thousands from the Iraqi religious minority.U.S.-backed Iraqi and Syrian Kurdish forces took back Sinjar in 2015 but the area south of the mountain remained in the hands of the ultra-hardline Sunni Muslim militants.The offensive launched by the Sinjar Resistance Units (YBS) aims to take back all Yazidi villages south of Sinjar, the group's administrative chief, Hassan Saeed, told Reuters.
Saeed, a Yazidi, said the offensive had not been coordinated with Shi'ite militias known as the Popular Mobilisation. The YBS is affiliated with Turkey's Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) and its military operations could upset Ankara, which has said it will not allow Sinjar to become a base for the group.
The PKK has waged an insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984 and is classified as a terrorist group by Ankara, the European Union and the United States.Yazidis speak Kurmanji, the same language as the Kurds of Syria and Turkey. Their beliefs combine elements of several ancient Middle Eastern religions.
The Nineveh region surrounding Mosul is a mosaic of ethnic and religious communities - Arabs, Turkmen, Kurds, Yazidis, Christians, Sunnis, Shi'ites - though Sunni Arabs comprise the overwhelming majority. (Reporting by Isabel Coles in Erbil; editing by Mark Heinrich)
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By Abu Anas
DHAKA (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - For much of his early life on Bhola, an island in south-central Bangladesh, Mohammed Abul Kalam battled poverty and a hostile river that twice engulfed his homestead.Now, as a resident of a "bastee", or private slum on the western edge of the capital, Dhaka, he faces new challenges: the trade-offs he has made on the family's health, education and security in exchange for being near a source of work. "I came here because I found no other way," Kalam said, sitting on the floor of his tin shack.The story of how he swapped rural farming for survival in one of Dhaka's burgeoning slums on privately-owned land reflects the precarious situation of up to half a million Bangladeshis estimated to migrate to the capital each year.Kalam's journey began when the Meghna River wiped out his home for the second time, sending the family deep into debt after he borrowed $765 from moneylenders to build a new house.His neighbours told him, "Go to Dhaka", suggesting that in order to pay to marry off two teenage daughters, he would have to leave his home in Madras, on Bhola, home to more than two million people, a third of whom live below the poverty line.With empty pockets, he and his family set off on the 18-hour trip by river to the capital, where he was taken on by a garment washing factory to carry clothes in a role that was a far cry from his old life paddy farming in his village.Earning just $76 a month, Kalam struggled to make ends meet and, four months into the job, he left to take up other work demolishing buildings with a hammer and a shovel, he said.This paid a little over $6 a day but the work was irregular and eventually he had no alternative but to find work for his two eldest daughters with a garment producer in Mirpur district.There, his teenage daughters cut sewing threads and checked clothes for alterations for $51 a month - less than the industry minimum wage of $68.RURAL EXODUS
Kalam and his family are not alone. According to the World Bank, each year up to half a million rural migrants stream into Dhaka for work, swelling the ranks of the urban poor.Experts say more than three-quarters of new arrivals end up living in a bastee - owned by private landlords who provide some services - as squatter settlements on public land have disappeared amid demolitions and evictions by authorities.
Since Bangladesh declared independence in 1971, the city's population has quadrupled to around 20 million. By 2050, it is projected to reach more than 35 million. Three years on, life for Kalam and his family is far from comfortable. He and his wife sleep on the concrete floor of their one-room shack to leave space for four children who share a bed. The family share a toilet with 10 households and risk fire by cooking with an electric stove as they have no gas.Even a brief burst of rain sends water into the bastee, which is spread out over five acres of low-lying land."(My) sorrows have a beginning but no end. I have lost everything, but the greatest loss is my daughters' education," said Kalam, reflecting on his life in the city.PRIVATE SLUMS
The family rents their room for $32 a month and the landlord takes care of some services, including electricity and water - important in a city where slum-dwellers on public land often have to pay "mastaans", powerful local figures, for utilities.Experts say the failure to re-house inhabitants evicted from homes in public settlements that have been demolished partly accounts for the boom in privately-owned slums.
"Slums are being cleared, but slum dwellers stay behind - they are not leaving Dhaka," Khondker Rebaca Sun-Yat, executive director at advocacy group the Coalition for the Urban Poor (CUP), told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. A 2014 census found that nearly 60 percent of slums in the north and south of Dhaka are built on private land, but urban experts and rights groups estimate the figure at 80-90 percent.Sun-Yat blamed centralised development that focuses services and industries in urban areas for the rise in private slums. "Cities have sources of income. You build infrastructure in cities; how can you expect rural people not to come to cities?" she said. "If rural areas had income sources and mills and factories, people wouldn't have come to Dhaka," she said.Nevertheless, she warned that cities would "become paralysed" if slum-dwellers returned to their place of origin.The development of Dhaka reflects a wider rise in the numbers of urban poor and what economists call the "non-monetary" conditions of poverty, such as overcrowding, vulnerability, poor security and poor sanitation, experts say. In comparison to rural poverty, urban poverty is surging.
The number of urban poor in Bangladesh rose to 8 million from 6 million between 1991 and 2010, the latest period for which data is available. In contrast, the number of rural poor went down in the same period, to 46 million from 55 million.Nine in 10 slum-dwellers in Dhaka were born outside the capital, while one-fifth are poor, according to initial results of a 2016 urban slum survey conducted by the World Bank. Tenure in privately-owned slums is no more secure than in public squatter settlements, according to Salma A. Shafi, treasurer of the Centre for Urban Studies, a thinktank in Dhaka."The tenants (in private slums) have no security as rents are raised according to the owner-developers' whims," she said. "Without any contractual agreement or legal support, tenants have no power."'SUB-HUMAN CONDITIONS'
Mosharraf Hossain, Minister of Housing and Public Works, is among those who believe migration to urban areas of Bangladesh is now "unnecessary" as wages have risen in rural areas.He said the city was not in a position to absorb more rural migrants given the poor state of its sewerage network, which covers just two-fifths of the city's population."It's better not to have slums," Hossain told the Thomson Reuters Foundation at his ministerial office in central Dhaka. "Slum people are living in sub-human conditions, near the rail lines. This is unnecessary."The government was piloting a low-cost housing project in Mirpur, which would be scaled up if successful, he said. Kalam said he was prepared to move to another private slum nearby - even for more rent - if he had to, but he did not want to leave Mirpur, where he and his daughters earn their living."I never expected my daughters to support me," he said. "Instead, I dreamed they would continue their education." (Reporting by Abu Anas, Editing by Jo Griffin; Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, women's rights, trafficking, corruption and climate change. Visit news.trust.org)
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By Paul Sandle and Guy Faulconbridge
| LONDON
LONDON Prosecutors on Monday questioned WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange at the Ecuadorian embassy in London, where he has been holed up for four years, in an investigation into allegations that he committed rape in Sweden in 2010.Assange, who enraged Washington by publishing a flood of secret U.S. diplomatic cables, fled to the embassy for fear that, if extradited to Sweden, he could be sent on to the United States and face a long prison term there for leaking U.S. secrets.Swedish Chief Prosecutor Ingrid Isgren spent around four hours in the embassy, where she posed questions through an Ecuadorian prosecutor, before leaving without making comment.Ecuador, which helped Assange avoid extradition by granting him asylum after he fled to its London legation, agreed to help Swedish prosecutors question Assange, who has denied the rape allegation."Today, after six years of offering his statement to the Swedish authorities, Julian Assange has finally been afforded the opportunity to do so," WikiLeaks said in a statement.But it complained that Assange's Swedish lawyer, Per Samuelson, was not notified or summoned to attend the session, and his absence was "a clear breach of process". A member of Assange's legal team, Melinda Taylor, said procrastination on the part of Swedish investigators had denied Assange any right to clear his name.
"As a result of six years of delays and over four and a half years of illegal and arbitrary detention, Mr Assange is today faced with (a) Hobson's choice: either he gives a statement in which his health, memory and psychological state are severely impeded, or, he is denied once more, an opportunity to be heard," she said by email.The 45-year-old Australian has refused to go to Sweden for questioning, saying that would expose him to further extradition to the United States, where a criminal investigation into the publication of secret documents by WikiLeaks continues.In 2010, WikiLeaks published thousands of classified U.S. military and diplomatic documents in what became one of the largest information leaks in U.S. history.Assange made international headlines in early 2010 when WikiLeaks released classified U.S. military video showing a 2007 attack by Apache helicopters that killed a dozen people in Baghdad, including two Reuters news staff.
EMBASSY QUESTIONING
Under conditions agreed by Ecuador, Isgren and a police investigator asked questions through the Ecuadorian prosecutor, who will then report the findings to Sweden, which will then decide whether to continue the investigation.
Samuelson, Assange's Swedish lawyer, said he had been barred from the meeting. "Ecuador refuses to let me in and insists that the questioning will continue without my presence, against my client's wishes to have me there," he told Reuters.While Assange's Ecuadorean defence lawyer appeared to be present, Samuelson said he still hoped to be admitted if the interview continued. "But a good chunk of questioning has already taken place as far as I understand," he said. A Swedish appeals court decided in September to uphold Assange's arrest warrant, saying a strong public interest argument outweighed a case to set it aside based on the lengthy deadlock and a previous lack of impetus in pursuing the case.Assange's request to have the warrant overturned came after a U.N. panel assessed in February that his stay at the Ecuadorean embassy amounted to arbitrary detention, and said he should be let go and be awarded compensation.Even if Sweden drops the investigation, however, Assange could be arrested for breaching bail conditions in Britain. (Additional reporting by Peter Nicholls and Daniel Dickson; editing by Mark Heinrich)
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For the past several days several cities of the United States of America have erupted in protests. In cities as varied as New York, Los Angeles, Portland, San Francisco, St Louis, Philadelphia, Denver, Detroit, Minneapolis, Chicago and many others, thousands of marchers have joined processions running for several miles. These protestors, while carrying banners expressing myriad opinions yet united by the F word prefixing the rest of the slogan, have appeared odd as they gave vent to Donald Trump, just elected at the end of the bitterest presidential contest in American history. Public display of disapproval of the President-elect that began within hours of the stunning verdict on 9 November is now slated to continue at least till his inauguration in January and maybe even beyond as protestors ire shift from his election to policies in office.
When I first heard about the first protests and that people had marched through American cities with banners proclaiming Not My President and others expressing similar stance, my first reaction was to wonder about the futility of the exercise. Subsequent slogans that began with the F word and ended with the displayers-choose-the-rest combinations: raging from Trump, Giuliani, Newt Gingrich, the police, the electoral vote system, and even you; reflected impotent rage of the Trumps opponents, maybe even, admirers of Hillary Clinton (many held signs #ImStillWithHer) because there was no way they could reverse the process. As a Wall Street Journal journalist wondered where do these protests go from here? and concluded that it is tough not to see the angry lot end up as a fizzle and burn out like a shooting star, I still held a candle for this indomitable spirit of dissenters in democracy.
While deliberating over this piece for the past few days, I recalled ironically a line of reasoning put forward by a person least expected to come to assistance while untying complex issues of democracy and dissidence and that too in the immediacy of an electoral verdict: Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In 2012 when I was interviewing him for my book on him, Modi said: In democracy the ultimate goal of protest is to spread lok siksha (peoples political awareness or education). And that has to be basic goal. This is not the angrez sultanat (foreign rule) that every public action must be an agitation. Making people aware should be the basic aim. It is not necessary that every agitation should be successful it is not necessary that all the time there will be so much anger against our own government all the time but this process every time will educate people. The process of political awareness building is a continuous process and this must continue.
Using Modis logic, the protests, despite not being an organised effort, and that the actual opposition to the Trump presidency will come from the development in the Democratic Party, who is elected as the partys National Committee chairperson and the partys ability to assess how it chose the wrong candidate and allowed a campaign to become Trump-centric, has a social and political purpose. This purpose underlines that democracy gives each citizen the right to question the collective mandate within moments of its being delivered. Only, care must be taken that opposition should not violate the rule of law and be subversive.
Trumps immediate reaction was that of a leader satiated in triumph. He tweeted: Just had a very open and successful presidential election. Now professional protesters, incited by the media, are protesting. Very unfair! He forgot that in 2012, after President Barack Obama was re-elected, an incensed Trump took to Twitter: We can't let this happen. We should march on Washington and stop this travesty. Our nation is totally divided! Probably his campaign team now reminded him of past indiscretion and consequently, a day later Trump sent a placatory Tweet: Love the fact that the small groups of protesters last night have passion for our great country. We will all come together and be proud!
We may have reasons for holding a diminishing view of America as a democracy and an even poorer opinion of its people and leaders, including the one who has just become a President-elect. But, the public stance to allow and accept dissent (as displayed by Trump) holds lessons for every political leader and party in India who owe their positions to the democratic wisdom of the people. Yet, they neither conduct affairs of their parties on democratic lines nor are willing people the right to grant people their right to protest or criticise. Because it runs the government with a clear majority of its own and because he is the most powerful premier of India in recent decades, Modi and his party must be more open to criticism and not slam every public protest as anti-national.
Because he is comparatively a more public prime minister than most of his predecessors, and because he loses no opportunity to publicise his programmes and initiatives besides attacking adversaries, he too must accept the right of other parties and people to voice disagreement with government policy. Criticism must be seen as an opportunity to strengthen ones defences to ward off accusations and also as a form of safety-valve to ensure that pent-up steam is released without attracting charges of treason. It will only be good for the countrys democratic health and ensure that subversion is not considered as the only way to oppose the system. If the right to protest is considered legitimate, even contrarians will realise that protests have a limited purpose.
The writer is a Delhi-based writer and journalist. He authored Narendra Modi: The Man, The Times and Sikhs: The Untold Agony of 1984. Twitter handle: @NilanjanUdwin
By Patrick Johnston
| SYDNEY
SYDNEY From Beijing to Berlin, star gazers around the world admired the supermoon - the largest, brightest full moon in nearly seven decades - as it made its way across the skies on Sunday and Monday.In Australia, some sky-watchers climbed to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge to get a closer view of the moon as it ducked between the clouds over the city. Astronomers said it was closer to Earth than at any time since 1948. The supermoon, also known as a blood moon, was produced when the shadow of Earth cast a reddish glow on the moon, the result of a rare combination of an eclipse with the closest full moon of the year. For more than an hour on Sunday night and early on Monday morning, Earths shadow blanketed the full moon as the planet passed between the sun and the moon.The brilliant white glow of the moon slowly transformed into a dim red, a coloring caused by Earths atmosphere scattering sunlight into the shadow.
"I think the last time I can remember this sort of (activity) is when I was very small, when Hale-Bopp came. Back then my parents took me (to watch)," said Hsieh Wei-Ting, 36, who lined up with scores of people in Taipei to look at the moon through telescopes in the Taiwanese capital. "It was like climbing a mountain to look at the stars." In New York City, the Chrysler Building lit up when the supermoon set behind the Art Deco-style skyscraper, and photographers captured the moon rising over the U.S. Capitol dome in Washington D.C.In Boston, real estate agent Jamie Iacoi filmed video from his roof deck on Sunday.
"At one point, the planes were flying right through the middle of the moon. It was so cool to see in person," Iacoi said.Spectators lined up in France, Israel and Germany to watch the moon rise behind famous monuments like the Eiffel Tower, Dormition Abbey, and the Brandenburg Gate.
The full moon also shone over Jakarta in Indonesia and Thailand's Bangkok while in the Philippines, park-goers watched the spectacle in Manila.The next supermoon-lunar eclipse combination will not happen until 2033. (Reporting by Reuters TV; Writing by Patrick Johnston in Singapore and Melissa Fares in New York; Editing by Bernadette Baum)
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By Tom Perry
| BEIRUT
BEIRUT Syrian insurgents clashed in a town near the Turkish border on Monday as inter-rebel tensions spilled over, playing to President Bashar al-Assad's advantage with the government tightening its grip on rebel-held eastern Aleppo. The confrontation in Azaz pitted a prominent Free Syrian Army (FSA) rebel group, the Levant Front, against factions that also fight under the FSA banner and the Islamist Ahrar al-Sham, sources on both sides and a group that reports on the war said.The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said headquarters and checkpoints held by the Levant Front had been seized in the fighting, which a Levant Front official said had forced the group to withdraw some fighters from a battle with Islamic State in the nearby city of al-Bab.The fighting in Azaz, some 60 km (35 miles) north of Aleppo, also prompted Turkey, which backs a number of FSA rebel groups, to close the border crossing at Oncupinar. Adjacent to Bab al-Salam in Syria, it is a major conduit for traffic between opposition-held northern Syria and Turkey.Rebel officials described the fighting as a blow to the opposition in the Aleppo region. Many of the insurgent groups operating in the Azaz area also have a presence in eastern Aleppo, where rebel groups had also clashed on Nov 2.The Syrian army backed by Russian air strikes and Shi'ite militias including Lebanon's Hezbollah have been waging a fierce campaign against the insurgents in the city, before the war the country's most populous.
MAJOR WEAKNESS
Rebel infighting has been a major weakness of the anti-Assad revolt since its earliest days. Rebel factions have been divided by both ideology and local power struggles. Jihadist groups have crushed less well-armed nationalist factions, while Islamists have also fought each other, notably in the Eastern Ghouta of Damascus this year.
Sources on opposing sides of Monday's fighting gave different accounts of events.The Levant Front official described it as an attack on his group by rivals including the Nour al-Din al-Zinki faction, which also fights under the FSA banner but has coordinated closely with Islamist groups. He called the confrontation a potentially lethal blow to the rebellion.A source on the other side of the conflict said groups including Ahrar al-Sham and the Zinki group had launched a campaign to "cleanse" northern Syria of groups that were guilty of acting like gangs. A statement declaring the start of the campaign identified targets including the leader of the Levant Front and the head of its security office.
Earlier this month, rebel factions clashed in eastern Aleppo itself. In that clash, the Zinki group and the allied jihadist Jabhat Fateh al-Sham tried to crush the Fastaqim faction, which is part of the FSA. Fateh al-Sham changed its name from the Nusra Front in July and said it was breaking its formal allegiance to al Qaeda. Officials from Ahrar al-Sham did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The Syrian army and its allies have completely encircled eastern Aleppo this year, and in September launched a major campaign aimed at seizing the insurgent-held areas.Rebels launched a counter attack last month, aimed at the city's government-held western districts. But that has failed, with the army and its allies on Saturday recapturing the last piece of territory they had lost. (Writing by Tom Perry; editing by John Stonestreet)
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Washington: President-elect Donald Trump is in for a quick wake-up call and will have to adjust his temperament when he confronts the realities of his new job on 20 January, President Barack Obama said on Monday.
In a news conference at the White House, Obama said the freewheeling Trump could not be as outspoken as he was during the long and bitter campaign that ended last week with the Republican's surprise win over Democrat Hillary Clinton. Subdued and carefully choosing his words, Obama gave what appeared to be dispassionate advice to his successor free of much of the partisan rancour that marked the election campaign.
"This office has a way of waking you up," Obama said. "Those aspects of his positions or predispositions that don't match up with reality, he will find shaken up pretty quick because reality has a way of asserting itself."
The two men met in the Oval Office last week to begin the transition of power. Obama said on Monday he believed Trump would be pragmatic in office and not approach the country's problems from an ideological perspective. "There are going to be certain elements of his temperament that will not serve him well, unless he recognises them and corrects them," Obama said. "Because when you're a candidate and you say something that is inaccurate or controversial it has less impact than it does when you're president of the United States. Everybody around the world is paying attention. Markets move," he said.
Obama declined to wade into a controversy over Trump's appointment of right-wing firebrand Stephen Bannon as his chief strategist, saying it would "not be appropriate" for him to comment on Trump's appointments. But Obama, who criticized Trump's temperament during the campaign, said it was important for Trump to send signals of unity after the hard-fought campaign. He said the political gifts that allowed the Republican to execute his upset of Clinton would be put to good use in the White House."I've been encouraged by his statements on election night about the need for unity, his interest in being president for all people," Obama said. "In an election like this that was so hotly contested and so divided, gestures matter."
Anger on Bannon's appointment
Democrats, civil rights groups and even some Republicans slammed Trump for choosing Bannon as a key aide, saying it would elevate the white nationalist movement into the top levels of the White House. Making his first appointments since last week's upset win, Trump picked Bannon as his chief strategist and counsellor, and Washington insider Reince Priebus as his chief of staff on Sunday, saying the two would share the task of steering his administration as "equal partners."
The choice of Priebus was seen as a conciliatory signal of Trump's willingness to work with Congress. But critics blasted the selection of Bannon, who spearheaded a shift of the Breitbart News website into a forum for the "alt-right," a loose online group of neo-Nazis, white supremacists and anti-Semites."There should be no sugarcoating the truth here: Donald Trump just invited a white nationalist into the highest reaches of the government," said Democratic Senator Jeff Merkley, who called on Trump to rescind the choice.
Democrats and advocacy groups on the left called Bannon a promoter of racism and misogyny who is backed by the white supremacist group the Ku Klux Klan. The Democrats' leader in the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, said Bannon's appointment sent "an alarming signal that President-elect Trump remains committed to the hateful and divisive vision that defined his campaign." Even some conservatives and Republicans voiced dismay on Bannon.
Evan McMullin, who ran as a conservative independent presidential candidate, wondered on Twitter if any national Republican leaders would condemn the pick of "anti-Semite" Bannon. John Weaver, a top strategist for Republican Ohio Governor John Kasich, tweeted that the "racist, fascist extreme right is represented footsteps from the Oval Office. Be very vigilant America." Kasich was one of 16 Republican presidential hopefuls Trump defeated in the party primaries. Priebus defended Bannon on Monday, calling him a wise and well-educated former naval officer and saying he had not encountered the sort of extremist or racist views that critics are assailing.
"He was a force for good on the campaign," Priebus said on Fox News, adding they were in agreement on "almost everything" in terms of advising the president-elect. Kellyanne Conway, Trump's former campaign manager and a senior adviser, told reporters in New York she was offended by the reaction to Bannon. She described him as a "brilliant tactician."
Fervent Trump backers counting on the wealthy real estate developer to keep his campaign promise to "drain the swamp" of business-as-usual Washington insiders may be disappointed he has named Priebus as chief of staff, a position that serves as gatekeeper and agenda-setter for the president.
Bannon, a former Goldman Sachs banker, over the past year led Breitbart News in a charge against the Republican Party establishment, including Priebus' friend Paul Ryan, the speaker of the US House of Representatives. Police in New York on Monday were investigating two cases involving swastikas drawn or painted in public spaces, as civil rights activists said there had been a surge in hate crimes following last week's election.
Local media reported hundreds of students walked out of a high school to protest Trump on Monday in Silver Spring, Maryland, and students gathered at the University of Washington in Seattle to protest Trump. The president-elect, a businessman who has never held public office, and his transition team are working on picking members of his Cabinet and the heads of federal agencies.
Among those reported to be under consideration for top posts are former US House Speaker Newt Gingrich, as a possible secretary of state or secretary of health and human services; Stephen Hadley, former national security adviser under President George W Bush, as a possible defence secretary; former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani as attorney general; and former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as interior secretary.
By Susan Cornwell and Alana Wise
| WASHINGTON
WASHINGTON Democrats, civil rights groups and even some Republicans slammed U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on Monday for choosing right-wing firebrand Stephen Bannon as a key aide, saying it would elevate the white nationalist movement into the top levels of the White House.Making his first appointments since last week's upset win over Democrat Hillary Clinton, Trump picked Bannon as his chief strategist and counsellor, and Washington insider Reince Priebus as his chief of staff on Sunday, saying the two would share the task of steering his administration as "equal partners."The choice of Priebus was seen as a conciliatory signal of Trump's willingness to work with Congress after he takes office on Jan. 20. But critics blasted the selection of Bannon, who spearheaded a shift of the Breitbart News website into a forum for the "alt-right," a loose online group of neo-Nazis, white supremacists and anti-Semites."There should be no sugarcoating the truth here: Donald Trump just invited a white nationalist into the highest reaches of the government," said Democratic Senator Jeff Merkley, who called on Trump to rescind the choice.Democrats and advocacy groups on the left called Bannon a promoter of racism and misogyny who is backed by the white supremacist group the Ku Klux Klan."It is a sad day when a man who presided over the premier website of the alt-right- a loose-knit group of white nationalists and unabashed anti-Semites and racists - is slated to be a senior staff member in the peoples house'," said Jonathan Greenblatt, head of the Anti-Defamation League.The Democrats' leader in the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, said Bannon's appointment sent "an alarming signal that President-elect Trump remains committed to the hateful and divisive vision that defined his campaign."Even some conservatives and Republicans voiced dismay. Evan McMullin, who ran as a conservative independent presidential candidate, wondered on Twitter if any national Republican leaders would condemn the pick of "anti-Semite" Bannon.John Weaver, a top strategist for Republican Ohio Governor John Kasich, tweeted that the "racist, fascist extreme right is represented footsteps from the Oval Office. Be very vigilant America." Kasich was one of 16 Republican presidential hopefuls Trump defeated in the party primaries ahead of last Tuesday's election.Priebus defended Bannon on Monday, calling him a wise and well-educated former naval officer and saying he had not encountered the sort of extremist or racist views that critics are assailing.
"He was a force for good on the campaign," Priebus said on Fox News, adding they were in agreement on "almost everything" in terms of advising the president-elect.Kellyanne Conway, Trump's former campaign manager and a senior adviser, told reporters in New York she was offended by the reaction to Bannon. She described him as a "brilliant tactician" who was the general in charge of Trump's campaign.Hardline Trump backers counting on the wealthy real estate developer to keep his campaign promise to "drain the swamp" of business-as-usual Washington insiders may be disappointed he has named Priebus as chief of staff, a position that serves as gatekeeper and agenda-setter for the president.TRUMP MANAGEMENT STYLE
Throughout his career Trump has often pitted competing staff factions against each other to get a wide range of views.
"He likes taking opinions from a lot of different people. He's not a person who just listens to one person and does whatever that one person says. He decides," Priebus said on NBC's "Today Show."The early stages of Trump's unorthodox presidential campaign were marked by frequent clashes between Paul Manafort, an experienced political insider, and brash manager Corey Lewandowski. Both eventually resigned.Since the election, Trump has softened one of his major campaign promises of building a wall along the U.S. border with Mexico to keep out illegal immigrants. In an interview with the CBS program "60 Minutes" on Sunday, Trump said he would accept some fencing instead of a brick-and-mortar wall.Trump also sought to play down the divisive nature of his candidacy and said Americans alarmed by his election had nothing to fear. "Don't be afraid. We are going to bring our country back. But certainly, don't be afraid," he said.
Bannon, a former Goldman Sachs banker, over the past year led Breitbart News in a charge against the Republican Party establishment, including Priebus' friend Paul Ryan, the speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives.The Breitbart attacks on Ryan continued on Sunday, with an article denouncing Ryan's comment on CNN that "we are not planning on erecting a deportation force.""Speaker Ryan is now telling voters that he will not enact a central part of Trump's mandate," a Breitbart article said.In the "60 Minutes" interview, Trump said he would move to deport up to 3 million immigrants who are in the country illegally and have criminal records.Demonstrators in major U.S. cities took to the streets for a fifth straight day on Sunday to protest against Trump. Police in New York on Monday were investigating two cases involving swastikas drawn or painted in public spaces, as civil rights activists said there had been a surge in hate crimes following last week's election.The president-elect, a businessman who has never held public office, and his transition team are working on picking members of his Cabinet and the heads of federal agencies.Among those reported to be under consideration for top posts are former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich, as a possible secretary of state or secretary of health and human services; Stephen Hadley, former national security adviser under President George W. Bush, as a possible defence secretary; former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani as attorney general; and former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as interior secretary. (Additional reporting by Doina Chiacu and Susan Heavey; Writing by John Whitesides; Editing by Peter Cooney, Bernadette Baum and Frances Kerry)
This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
By Angus McDowall and Tom Perry
| BEIRUT
BEIRUT Syrian rebels backed by Turkey were poised to begin an assault to try to drive Islamic State from the Syrian city of al-Bab, two of their commanders said on Monday, a battle that could also prompt new fighting with Kurdish groups that are competing for the area.Further escalation in the complex, multi-sided conflict in northern Syria has the potential to undermine a campaign supported by an international coalition led by the United States to oust Islamic State from its Syrian capital of Raqqa.Al-Bab is fast becoming a major faultline in the war in northern Syria, bringing Free Syrian Army rebels backed by Turkish armour closer than ever to frontlines held by the Syrian government and its Iranian and Russian allies in nearby Aleppo."There is nothing between us and al-Bab," said one of the rebels, a commander in one of the groups fighting under the Free Syrian Army (FSA) banner taking part in the Turkey-backed Euphrates Shield operation in north Syria that began in August."If not in hours then in a very few days we will be inside al-Bab," the commander told Reuters, declining to be identified. The Britain-based war monitor, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights on Monday cited residents saying areas surrounding al-Bab were being struck by Turkish and FSA artillery. Another FSA commander who identified himself by the nom de guerre, Abu Assad Dabiq, said rebels were less than 3 km (2 miles) away.The main struggle in Syria's civil war pits President Bashar al-Assad, backed by Russia, Iran and Shi'ite militias against Sunni rebels backed by Turkey, the United States and Gulf monarchies. They are all fighting against Islamic State. Further complicating the warfare in northern Syria, Turkey and the FSA rebel groups it backs are also set against a Kurdish-dominated alliance of militias that has fought Islamic State since 2015 and recently began a campaign to take Raqqa. GOVERNMENT ALLIES' WARNING
Al-Bab is located 30 km (19 miles) south of Syria's border with Turkey and the same distance from Aleppo, meaning its capture could help rebels to advance against pro-government forces besieging their comrades inside the city.
The city of al-Bab had a population of 63,000 before the war according to a 2004 census by Syria's Central Bureau of Statistics and is a hub for major roads in the region north of Aleppo. "God willing with the capture of al-Bab, we will be on the outskirts of the (Aleppo) industrial zone and the outskirts of the Kweiras air port, and the outskirts of the infantry college, meaning in direct contact with the regime," the rebel commander, who declined to be identified, said. However, allies of the Syrian government late last month warned Turkey against an advance towards their positions to the north and east of Aleppo, saying any such move would be met "decisively and with force".The Syrian government is backed by the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, Lebanon's Hezbollah and other Shi'ite militia. Al-Bab also sits between two Kurdish-ruled enclaves and its capture would thwart Kurdish ambitions to join them, something some Syrian Kurds regard as necessary to advance their goal of protecting Kurdish autonomy in northern Syria.While Turkey's launch of the Euphrates Shield campaign in August was partly aimed at pushing Islamic State from border areas after the jihadist group shelled Turkish towns, it was also intended to prevent the Kurdish enclaves from joining.
RAQQA CAMPAIGN
Ankara regards the main Kurdish militia group YPG as being an extension of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which has fought a three-decade insurgency inside Turkey and is listed by the United States and European Union as a terrorist group. The YPG and allied groups have also tried to advance towards al-Bab in recent months from their two enclaves to the west and east but remain about 20 km away on each side. The YPG is the strongest element of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a U.S.-backed alliance of armed groups fighting against Islamic State which last week began an offensive against territory held by the jihadist group north of Raqqa.
Turkey and the YPG have both insisted that the other should have no part in the Raqqa campaign. The push against Raqqa has already been complicated by concerns that the central role of Kurds in the battle for the mostly Arab city would play into Islamic State propaganda. Last week, the Liwa Thuwwar al-Raqqa, one of the few Arab groups involved in the fighting in that area said it would not take part in the campaign because there were too few Arabs involved. "We are not satisfied that the campaign should start this way," Mahmoud al-Hadi, head of the group's political office, told Reuters. Jihan Sheikh Ahmed, the spokeswoman for the SDF's Raqqa offensive, in comments to reporters on a social networking site on Saturday said she believed there were "sufficient" Arabs taking part in the campaign. The United States has said Arabs must play the central role in any push to take Raqqa.Turkey has also said that after the Euphrates Shield operation captures al-Bab, it will target Manbij, a city 40 km to the east that has been held by forces allied to the SDF for months. That could prompt a much wider escalation between Turkey and Kurdish groups that could in turn foil efforts by the United States to orchestrate an SDF assault on Islamic State in Raqqa."As for what is happening in al-Bab, it has an impact one way or another on our campaign," said Ahmed of the Raqqa offensive. (Reporting By Tom Perry, Ellen Francis and Angus McDowall in Beirut and Suleiman al-Khalidi in Amman, editing by Peter Millership)
This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
When a 3,000-year-old bronze wine vessel was shown at an exhibition in Shanghai last year, it drew a large number of viewers.
Workers inspect the Min Fanglei, a 3,000-year-old bronze wine vessel, in 2014. The vessel was to be reunited with its lid after being separated for about 90 years. It was unearthed in the Hunan province in the 1920s and was traded abroad. [Photo / China Daily]
A year before that, the ceremonial vessel, known as the Min Fanglei, returned to its birthplace in Central China's Hunan province to reunite with its lid after being separated for about 90 years.
Unearthed around 1922 by a villager, the vessel was the subject of several transactions. It was traded abroad and changed hands among dealers and private collectors.
The lid has been at Hunan Provincial Museum in Changsha since the 1950s.
The vessel was scheduled for a Christie's auction in New York in April 2014. A group of Chinese buyers from Hunan acquired the bronze in a closed-door deal with its European owner on the condition that it would be donated to the museum. The price was reportedly in the millions of US dollars, but the exact figure was not revealed.
Tan Guobin, one of the Chinese buyers, told China Daily after the deal that the transaction price was thought to be lower than bids would have been if the auction had proceeded.
The return of the bronze is an example of public institutions and private collectors working together to bring Chinese cultural relics back home.
The past five years have seen an increase in the number of Chinese buyers bidding for Chinese antiques at major auctions in New York, London, Paris and elsewhere. Their participation in the global art market has not only pushed up the prices of Chinese art, but has also drawn government and public attention to lost treasures.
A ban by the State Administration of Cultural Relics on the auction of stolen, smuggled or looted cultural relics underscores the official stance denying the legitimacy of such commercial transactions. One result is that Chinese buyers may become more cautious when making bids overseas.
Ji Tao, an art market researcher at Central University of Finance and Economics in Beijing, said the administration needs to further clarify what "looted" artifacts are.
Some objects remain with the offspring of those who took them, while others have been traded numerous times and have been acquired by their current owners through lawful deals, he said.
He added that looted objects, such as those robbed from Beijing's Old Summer Palace by British and French forces during the Second Opium War, account for a small part of the Chinese antiques available on the international market. The bulk were exported through legitimate transactions.
Many Chinese artifacts that were stolen are part of museums and galleries worldwide. Unless they are offered at auction, their return home is highly unlikely, Ji said.
As the quintessential 'woman in cheongsam', television royalty Chen Shu wants to be known for her versatility, writes Raymond Zhou.
Chen Shu's upcoming role is that of a queen in a lavish costume drama. [Photo / China Daily]
Chen Shu is hailed by many in China as "the most beautiful woman in cheongsam". Over the past decade, she has been associated with roles in television hits that required her to wear the Mandarin gown popularized in early 20th-century Shanghai.
Chen, 39, could well rest on her laurels of period drama set in that recent past, where her beauty and elegance are guaranteed to impress, but her versatility easily transcends that retro style.
She has surprised many by venturing into contemporary drama, playing Huang Lei's first love in the latest hit drama A Love for Separation.
"Can you imagine I have never played in costume dramas set in ancient times?" she asks. With her dance background, she can bring something special to fantasy tales popular with today's youth.
Her upcoming role in such a series is that of a queen, and she projects at once grandness and subtlety with sometimes a mere look and at other times with slow, dancelike movements. She is mesmerizing in a way Turandot casts her spell over Calaf in the classic opera story.
The production has wrapped up recently. "I can't wait for audience reaction," she enthuses. "It will hit the screen in summer 2017."
Samsung Electronics and Harman International Industries, Incorporated, popular for its connected car solutions today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Samsung will acquire HARMAN for $112.00 per share in cash, or total equity value of approximately $8.0 billion. This is the biggest overseas acquisition ever by a South Korean firm.
HARMAN said that approximately 65% of its $7.0 billion of reported sales during the 12 months ended September 30, 2016 are automotive-related. After the deal, Samsung will gain significant presence in Connected Car market, particularly automotive electronics, which has been a strategic priority for the company.
Samsung said that it expects the combination to deliver significant growth opportunities and benefits to customers by leveraging Samsungs and HARMANs complementary technologies, resulting in increased market penetration across important end markets.
Upon closing, HARMAN will operate as a standalone Samsung subsidiary, and continue to be led by Dinesh Paliwal and HARMANs current management team. The agreement has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies. After approval by HARMAN shareholders, regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions, the deal is is expected to close in mid-2017.
Commenting on the latest acquisition, Oh-Hyun Kwon, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Samsung Electronics, said:
HARMAN perfectly complements Samsung in terms of technologies, products and solutions, and joining forces is a natural extension of the automotive strategy we have been pursuing for some time. As a Tier 1 automotive supplier with deep customer relationships, strong brands, leading technology and a recognized portfolio of best-in-class products, HARMAN immediately establishes a strong foundation for Samsung to grow our automotive platform. Dinesh Paliwal is a proven global leader and, in our extensive discussions, we have developed deep respect for him, his strong senior leadership team and HARMANs talented employees. HARMANs sustained track record of rapid growth fueled by technology leadership and an unmatched automotive order pipeline reflects its commitment to innovation and customers.
Dinesh Paliwal, HARMAN Chairman, President and CEO, said:
This compelling all-cash transaction will deliver significant and immediate value to our shareholders and provide new opportunities for our employees as part of a larger, more diversified company. Todays announcement is a testament to what we have achieved and the value that we have created for shareholders. Samsung is an ideal partner for HARMAN and this transaction will provide tremendous benefits to our automotive customers and consumers around the world. Combining Samsungs strengths in leading-edge displays, connectivity and processing solutions with HARMANs technology leadership and long-standing customer relationships will enable OEMs to provide new offerings for their customers. Partnerships and scale are essential to winning over the long term in automotive as demand for robust connected car and autonomous driving solutions increases at a rapid pace. This transaction will bring HARMAN and Samsungs complementary strengths together to accelerate innovation in this space. More broadly, this investment underscores the strength of HARMANs employees, as well as our success and leadership across our markets. We look forward to working together with Samsung to elevate experiences for consumers worldwide.
Source
Will Donald Trump follow through on his threat to shut down imports from Mexico?
Right now, it's not clear exactly what kinds of programs President-elect Trump will choose to push once he takes office, or how far he'll be able to get with some of his more outside-the-box ideas.
It seems pretty clear, though, that he'll try to deliver in some way on one of his most frequently repeated promises: to renegotiate or dismantle the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
If he succeeds, that will be a costly headache for Ford Motor Company (F 0.22%), General Motors (GM 0.26%), and just about all of the other big global automakers. Here's why.
What Trump has promised to do about NAFTA
First, let's look at what President-elect Trump might try to do. In his 7-point trade plan, Trump said that if elected, he would:
Tell NAFTA partners that we intend to immediately renegotiate the terms of that agreement to get a better deal for our workers. If they don't agree to a renegotiation, we will submit notice that the U.S. intends to withdraw from the deal. Eliminate Mexico's one-side backdoor tariff through the VAT and end sweatshops in Mexico that undercut U.S. workers.
Trump also famously castigated automakers generally and Ford in particular for building new factories in Mexico and not in the United States. He even suggested that he'd try to enact a 35% tax on vehicles imported from Mexico.
One way or another, it seems clear that Trump will try to end free trade between the U.S. and its southern neighbor. That means (again, if he's successful) that vehicles coming into the U.S. from Mexico would face a tariff -- probably a steep one.
That would disrupt a lot of commerce and affect a lot of automakers.
There are a lot of vehicles coming into the U.S. from Mexico
Since official reports of exports and imports are tallied in terms of financial value, it can be hard to tell exactly how many cars and trucks are imported into the U.S. from other countries.
But we know there are a lot of them: According to figures from the Mexican Automotive Industry Association, about 79% of the 2.9 million vehicles built in Mexico this year through October were exported. About 86% of those exports, just under 2 million, went to North America, and the vast majority of those were sent to the U.S.
There are more coming: According to a recent report from the Center for Automotive Research (CAR), new factories under construction in Mexico will push the country's total production capacity over 5 million vehicles a year sometime in 2018.
Those factories are getting built because right now, it makes very good business sense for American automakers to build cars and trucks in Mexico and then import them into the U.S.
Why automakers have been building factories in Mexico
The list of auto factories in Mexico is a long one, and it has been growing quickly in recent years. Just since 2014, Mazda, Honda, Volkswagen and Audi, and Hyundai, and Kia have all opened plants in Mexico. There are more on the way: Ford, Nissan, BMW, Volvo, and Toyota all have Mexican factories under construction or in the works now. They'll join GM, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCAU), and other vehicle manufacturers that have had factories in Mexico for several years.
But why Mexico? Lower-cost labor is part of the story, but there's quite a bit more to it:
Free trade with other countries: Thanks to free-trade deals, exports from Mexico are exempt from tariffs in 44 other countries, including the European Union (counted as one "country"), versus just 20 from the United States. That makes it an appealing base for any company that wants to produce goods (global small-car models, for instance) for export.
Thanks to free-trade deals, exports from Mexico are exempt from tariffs in 44 other countries, including the European Union (counted as one "country"), versus just 20 from the United States. That makes it an appealing base for any company that wants to produce goods (global small-car models, for instance) for export. Free trade with the U.S. -- and easy shipping: One of those 44 countries is the world's second-largest auto market, the United States. Because it shares a huge border with Mexico, shipping vehicles from Mexican factories to U.S. dealers is relatively simple and inexpensive.
One of those 44 countries is the world's second-largest auto market, the United States. Because it shares a huge border with Mexico, shipping vehicles from Mexican factories to U.S. dealers is relatively simple and inexpensive. Lower-cost, but highly qualified, workers: Yes, Mexican workers are paid less, averaging a little over $8 an hour in wages and benefits while their American counterparts make about $46. But they're also well-qualified: Mexico has made huge strides toward an educated workforce, with over 90,000 engineers and technicians graduating annually.
Yes, Mexican workers are paid less, averaging a little over $8 an hour in wages and benefits while their American counterparts make about $46. But they're also well-qualified: Mexico has made huge strides toward an educated workforce, with over 90,000 engineers and technicians graduating annually. Robust existing infrastructure: The number of factories already operating in Mexico means the country has a rich network of suppliers, logistics companies, and other resources that automakers seek. Mexico also has good deep-water ports on both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, facilitating longer-distance exports.
Long story short: If you're manufacturing vehicles that can be sold in many global markets -- in particular, small cars, small SUVs, and heavy trucks -- and you do business in the U.S., there's a strong business case for building those vehicles in Mexico.
But that business case changes in a hurry if NAFTA goes away and the U.S. imposes tariffs on Mexican-made vehicles.
How a tariff would put Mexican-made cars at a huge disadvantage in the U.S.
While Mexico's free-trade agreements and established infrastructure are a big part of why automakers are attracted to Mexico, the cost advantage is real. But it might not be as large as you think.
Here's a real-world example. For a while, Ford built Fusions for the U.S. market in two factories, one in Michigan and one in Mexico. Not everything is cheaper in Mexico: Labor and locally made parts cost less, but some other things (including shipping to U.S. dealers) cost more. Overall, CAR estimated that the Fusions built in Mexico cost Ford $1,200 less per car than the ones built in Michigan.
That difference in cost is profit for Ford -- or looked at another way, it's margin that Ford can use to price the Fusion more aggressively, as it is doing now.
At the moment, competition in the Fusion's segment (midsize sedans) is fierce. The Fusion's average transaction price is about $22,500 right now, according to J.D. Power data made available to The Motley Fool. That's still higher than the average of the Fusion's competitors (about $21,800), reflecting Ford's pricing discipline and the fact that the Fusion was recently revamped.
But Ford probably isn't making a ton of money on Fusions at that price, even Mexican-built ones. Profit margins on individual products are closely held secrets, but we can estimate that Ford's overall profit margin on the Fusion is probably around 8% right now, or in the neighborhood of $1,800 per car. (Its profit margins on smaller vehicles are almost certainly thinner.)
A 35% tariff would add an average of $7,875 per car, leaving Ford deep in the hole. Ford can't just pass that on to consumers, because the Fusion competes (fiercely) with vehicles made in the U.S. and elsewhere. Even adding a few thousand dollars to its price would drop it out of consideration for a lot of potential buyers.
So, why can't Ford just live with the $1,200-per-car cost disadvantage and make those Fusions in the U.S.?
Why the Detroit automakers don't want to build new U.S. factories
The short answer is that Ford doesn't have room: Most of Ford's U.S. factories, and those of its rivals, are running near full capacity. Most are making (more profitable) trucks, SUVs, or luxury vehicles. (Ford no longer makes Fusions in Michigan; that assembly line now builds more-profitable Lincoln Continentals instead.)
If Ford was forced to build Fusions in the U.S., it would have to build a new factory. But here's the thing about auto factories: They cost a lot of money no matter how busy they are, and the market for new cars is cyclical.
It can cost a billion dollars or more to build a new auto factory -- but that's just the beginning. The industry rule of thumb is that an auto factory becomes profitable when it's at or over 80% of "capacity," which in the industry's lingo means two shifts working five days a week. Most of Ford's (and GM's and Fiat Chrysler's) U.S. factories are at or above capacity right now because the U.S. new-car market is very strong. That's why Detroit's profit margins in North America have been so high.
But it won't last. Remember, history shows us that the new-car market is cyclical. In fact, we're probably past the peak of the current cycle, which means sales (and therefore production) will drop at some point.
By limiting the number of factories it operates, and running them flat-out when times are good, Ford (and GM and the others) can keep most of them above that break-even line when sales drop, as they do in a recession.
If the recession is prolonged or severe enough, some will fall below that 80%-of-capacity break-even line. When that happens, a U.S. factory will lose more money per day than a Mexican factory, because its fixed costs (including labor) are higher.
Also, because of Mexico's network of free-trade agreements, it's possible that Ford (or whoever) could keep a Mexican factory above break-even during a steep U.S. recession by building products for export to some of those 43 other markets with which Mexico has free-trade deals. That's harder to do from the United States.
The upshot: An end to NAFTA would be expensive and disruptive
To sum up: Right now, if the automakers are going to build factories to supply the U.S. market, it makes much more sense to build them in Mexico instead of the U.S.
Changing that by taxing vehicles imported from Mexico, as President-elect Trump has said he will do, would force the automakers to spend billions on new U.S. factories, depleting their cash reserves and exacerbating their losses when the economy turns south.
It would increase the costs of manufacturing small and midsize mass-market vehicles for the U.S. market. Some of those costs would be passed on to consumers, making the least-expensive new vehicles more expensive than they are now.
On the other hand, it would create U.S. manufacturing jobs -- assuming the automakers don't find ways to bring the cars in from elsewhere, or to increase the use of automation in their existing factories.
Will it be worth it? We may find out.
Over the 2016 holiday season, both Target (TGT 0.21%) and Wal-Mart (WMT -0.45%) have doubled down on the idea that people will place orders online and pick them up in store. Both are trying to improve the process with dedicated staff, but the question is how big demand will be aside from the holidays.
In this clip from Industry Focus: Consumer Goods, host Vincent Shen is joined by Motley Fool contributing writer Daniel Kline to dig into some of the facts behind this growing customer-service method. The two look at the opportunity and debate whether the idea has any merit outside of the holiday season.
A full transcript follows the video.
This podcast was recorded on Nov. 8, 2016.
Vince Shen: A somewhat related topic around in-store pickup, and how some of the more traditional big-box retailers are leveraging this, I want to touch on this, again, related to the growing popularity of this delivery method for customers.
About 20% of Americans, in a PwC survey, say they use in-store pickup on a regular basis, which really surprised me. About half of the survey respondents use in-store pickup occasionally. So some of these traditional big-box retailers -- think Wal-Mart, think Target-- they have to deal with a lot of the challenges of integrating ship-to-store, in-store pickup capabilities into their established retail layouts. So, thinking of, how you optimize your staffing, how you store your inventory, how you separate your work spaces. But I would argue that [Amazon.com] has an advantage here, in that they're building their stores around this concept.
Dan Kline: They are. The chief person for this is either the person who feels their product is going to get stolen if it's delivered to their door, or, in the case of where I've used pick-up in-store at Target, when my wife wanted to pick up the sheets at our vacation condo, but have me pick them up. So she ordered them in Connecticut; I picked them up in Florida, same day.
Now, what Target's doing to facilitate this is, they're going to have dedicated personnel, at least for the holiday season, devoted to doing this, because the problem with pickup in-store has been, it's a bit like when you go to Panera Bread and they have the Order Ahead, yet no two stores do it the same way, and you never know where your bagel is. So you walk into Target, and basically, you were a pioneer doing something that the person behind the counter didn't necessarily know the procedure for. Maybe it was in the layaway area, maybe it was in the set-aside area, maybe they had to go pick it off the store shelves. So absolutely, they have stepped up how they do this, but I do think it's something that -- the holiday season, it makes a lot of sense. You need things faster; you want gifts when you want them. If it's the hot TV, you want to make sure you have already ordered it so you don't go to the store and have it be out. But is there really a huge demand for this in August?
Shen: OK. So, you mentioned some of the potential top- and bottom-line impact. Jeremy Bowman, one of our Fool.com contributors, he has a really interesting piece on some of these developments that we've discussed at Amazon. He dug a little deeper into the numbers to estimate what the potential financial impact a 2,000-store network could have for the company. He uses some comparable metrics and numbers from leading grocery chain Kroger. The idea is, 2,000 locations, assuming about 30,000 square feet of retail space, and what Kroger can generate per square foot, currently, in sales -- it's about $40 billion of grocery revenue. So I think, in the last 12 months, Amazon has had about $120 billion in revenue. So that's significant. Granted, this would be over many, many years in order to get to that.
Kline: And what's the margin on that?
Shen: Exactly. That's, I think, the point that Jeremy really hits -- significant addition to the top line, but in terms of those razor-thin margins, think 2%-3% for the grocery industry overall. That's adding less than $1 billion to the bottom line while using those benchmark figures. So, you see, it is not going to be this huge profit driver for the company. But even if it doesn't scale to that thousands of locations, it's just part of [Jeff] Bezos' strategy to get Amazon to be a bigger and bigger part of your life.
Kline: The question comes down to, how can they leverage their user base? I'm a Prime member; so are about 25% of all Americans. If they can message to me and get me into that store, where perhaps I'm going to pick up my groceries, maybe I'm going to get a new Kindle, and maybe they can sign me up for an AWS account, all at the same time, while providing the ability to return without putting it in a box. If they can leverage all of those things, I see convenience. But that's not cheap. One of the reasons Amazon is cheaper is, they don't have the customer-service expense of a physical store, because it's all automated. If you want to do a return, you click "return" and it sends you a shipping label, and you send it back, and a robot puts it away. So I can see how it would work, but it does seem like a lot of effort for nothing. I would rather see 2,000 bookstores.
Remember when Thanksgiving meant fun times and good food with family and friends? These days, most of us barely get a chance to digest our turkey before heading out to stores or going online in an attempt to snag some coveted goods at a discount. And though the idea of rising at the near-crack of dawn and battling crowds at popular retailers is enough to make most of us want to stay in bed, these days, you don't even need to leave your house to get in on the Black Friday action. An estimated 205 million Americans went shopping last year over Black Friday weekend, slightly more than half of whom limited their purchases to those acquired online. But while Black Friday may be known for offering the lowest prices of the year, in reality, it's one of the worst times to shop.
The lure of Black Friday
You've got to hand it to the folks who market those Black Friday deals -- they're generally pretty good at what they do. The goal of a typical Black Friday retailer is to attract customers by offering a few key products at a so-called discount. Then, once those "deals" run out, the retailers have still got you in their hooks because you're already in their stores or on their sites, at which point you're more likely to buy something else -- even if it's not on sale.
One thing to keep in mind about Black Friday is that the advertised "deals" tend to be very limited in quantity. Even if you're willing to camp out in a store parking lot to be one of the first people in line when the doors open, you might still lose out on the products you were hoping to buy. And that's when Black Friday retailers really start to capitalize.
Speaking of deals...
So let's talk about those bargains that are too good to pass up: a flat-screen TV for $200 that normally goes for $400! A gaming system for $150 that usually sells for double! How can retailers afford to part with these products for such little money?
The answer is: They can't, and they don't. See, what many retailers do is offer lower-quality versions of popular products specifically for Black Friday. These inferior versions are known as derivatives, and they're typically made with cheaper materials and parts that enable retailers to offer them at such low prices. Purchasing a derivative means running the risk that a so-called name-brand product will fail you the minute its warranty runs out, so be sure to do your research before you buy. Specifically, you may want to think twice about buying a TV on Black Friday, especially one that's only available at a single retailer and whose model number has magically never existed before.
What about the savings?
Of course, not all products sold on Black Friday are derivatives. A lot of the products you'll see online and in stores are the same items you'll see year-round, in which case it probably pays to jump on what could be the lowest prices of the year, right? Wrong. The Wall Street Journal studied pricing data across a wide range of product categories, and it found that most items are offered below Black Friday price points at different times throughout the year. For example, there's data suggesting that you're more likely to get a better deal on a new car in April than on Black Friday. Meanwhile, flat-screen TVs often get discounted the most the week before the Super Bowl. And if you're buying jewelry for that special someone in your life, you'd best wait till after Valentine's Day, when you're likely to score the deepest discount.
Of course, there are always exceptions, and if you play your cards right, you might come away with a deal so fabulous you'll need to resist the urge to tweet about it. But if your plan for Black Friday is to visit your favorite retailers, either in person or online, and snatch up every product in sight, there's a good chance you'll wind up overpaying for most items and busting your budget in the process.
Remember, buying an $80 toaster oven you don't need for $40 isn't saving $40; it's wasting $40. So if you do insist on doing some Black Friday shopping, make a list and stick to it. Otherwise you might come home with a mountain of debt, and that's no way to ring in the holiday season.
For many retirees and pre-retirees, Social Security will play an integral role in ensuring that their month-to-month expenses are taken care of. A recently updated Gallup poll showed that nearly 9 in 10 current retirees count on Social Security income to some degree each month, while around 80% of surveyed pre-retirees expect to do the same in retirement.
However, Social Security's future is still very much up in the air. While the program isn't going bankrupt, demographic shifts, which include the retirement of baby boomers and lengthening life expectancies, could wind up pushing benefits lower across the board. The latest report from the Social Security Board of Trustees has forecast that a 21% drop in benefits would be needed to sustain the program through 2090. Since workers and seniors simply can't count on Congress to get a fix in place, they need to be focused on ways to increase their Social Security benefits come retirement.
The obvious way to boost your Social Security income is to simply wait to file for benefits. Social Security benefits grow by approximately 8% on annually, though your monthly distribution is dependent on your individual full retirement age, or FRA. Your FRA is a dynamic number that's based on your year of birth, and it represents the point at which you become eligible for 100% of your benefits. Retire before your FRA, and your benefit could see a reduction of 25% to 30% from what it would be at your full retirement age. Wait until age 70, the point at which benefits stop accruing, and it could be anywhere from 24% to 32% higher than at your FRA. Waiting as long as possible means a juicier benefit later.
Four unconventional ways to boost your Social Security income
But there are other, unconventional ways you can boost your benefit. Here are four such methods.
1. Pull a Social Security mulligan
It's a rule I'd bet most retirees and pre-retirees aren't aware of, but Social Security allows seniors a do-over should they regret taking their benefits early.
Social Security Administration Form 521, officially known as the Request for Withdrawal of Application, allows seniors to withdraw their request for Social Security benefits within the first 12 months following the filing of their application to receive benefits. There are two key catches here. First, Form 521 has to be filed within the first 12 months of claiming benefits -- an important requirement. Second, you'll need to pay back every cent you and your family may have received from the SSA based on your earnings history in order for your withdrawal claim to be undone. If you pay back what you received from the SSA, then it'll be as if you never filed a claim in the first place, and your benefits will continue growing at roughly 8% per year.
A Social Security mulligan is a particularly smart move for seniors who've struggled to get a job in their early to mid-60s, but wound up landing a well-paying job a few months after signing up for Social Security benefits.
2. Work yourself into a higher benefit check
Seniors may also not be aware that if they file for benefits before reaching their FRA and earn over a certain amount, the SSA can withhold some, or all, of their benefits.
This year, the SSA is allowed to withhold $1 in benefits for each $2 in earned income over $15,720 for individuals receiving benefits who have not reached their FRA. If you'll reach your FRA in 2016 but have not yet done so, the SSA can withhold $1 in benefits for each $3 in earned income over $41,880. Based on a recent press release from the SSA, these thresholds are increasing to $16,920 (or $100 extra a month) and $44,880 ($250 extra a month), respectively, in 2017.
On one hand, these thresholds reduce your expected take-home pay if you're still working and hoping to double-dip with your Social Security benefit. On the other hand, you don't lose this money if it's withheld by the SSA: It's returned to you after you reach your FRA in the form of a higher monthly benefit payment. Thus, you may be able to work between ages 62 and 66, save a few extra dollars, and have your withheld benefits translate into a bigger monthly benefit upon hitting your full retirement age.
3. Be mindful of where you retire and how much you make
A third unconventional method to boost your Social Security income is to move to or retire in a state that has a tax-friendly policy toward Social Security benefits and retirement income in general.
Some people may not be aware that the federal government does indeed tax Social Security benefits. If an individual earns more than $25,000 annually, or joint filers more than $32,000 annually, the federal government subjects a percentage of Social Security benefits to ordinary income taxation. Anything below these levels is free of federal taxation. This means a little tax planning, such as leaning on a Roth IRA during retirement, could be worthwhile. A Roth IRA doesn't count toward your adjusted gross income, and eligible withdrawals are tax-free for life.
More importantly, 13 states also tax Social Security benefits. Nine of these states have varying degrees of income exemptions, while four -- Vermont, Minnesota, North Dakota, and West Virginia -- mirror the federal tax schedule for Social Security benefits. If you avoid these states during retirement, you may be able to decrease what you'll hand back in taxes, meaning more money remains in your pocket.
4. Use your kids to boost family Social Security benefits
A final unconventional way to increase your household's Social Security income is to take advantage of children's benefits for Social Security when available. It's quite uncommon, but in cases in which a parent is old enough to qualify for Social Security (age 62 and up) and certain criteria are met, children can receive up to half of the parent's benefit to avoid reduction in the benefit that the parent receives. In order to qualify, children would need to be:
Unmarried
Under the age of 18
Under the age of 19 and still a full-time student in high school
Or, 18 or older and disabled (with the disability beginning before age 22)
It should be noted that adopted and dependent stepchildren can sometimes qualify. Likewise, children can in some rarer cases qualify for benefits based on the earnings history of a grandparent who is their guardian. The more common situation involving Social Security and children's benefits occurs when a parent dies, with the survivor benefit for children being up to 75% of the parent's Social Security benefit. Nonetheless, if you're of Social Security retirement age and your kids also qualify, you may be able to substantially boost your household income.
A young Jack Ma look-alike has won the heart of the founder of Alibaba Group, the real Jack Ma.
File photos of Fan Xiaoqin and Jack Ma. [Photo from web]
Fan Xiaoqin or "mini Jack Ma" is 8 years old and lives in Yongfeng County, east China's Jiangxi Province. His family circumstances are unfortunate as his mother has poliomyelitis, his father a missing leg and his grandma, Alzheimer's disease, reported jxnews.com.cn on November 13.
"Mini Jack Ma" came to fame after a villager posted a video of him online in 2015. The internet exploded in remarks over how similar the boy looked to Jack Ma. Once again, with the coming of Double Eleven Shopping Festival, "mini Jack Ma" won the hearts of internet once again, and netizens urged Jack Ma to support Fan Xiaoqin, given his family circumstances.
The attention and buzz caught Jack Ma's attention and he saw the similarities between himself and the boy. Just last week, he announced he would financially support Fan Xiaoqin until he graduates from university.
The bursting of the housing bubble late last decade led to a significant decline in home construction, which pummeled the stock prices of publicly traded construction companies. Despite that devastating blow, homebuilding has risen out of those ashes, with building starts and new home prices rising steadily over the past few years. That said, the market is not yet back up to its prior level, let alone anywhere near the peak. Because of that, the market has plenty of room to grow, which suggests that construction stocks should do well as the recovery continues to take hold.
Image source: Getty Images.
The state of the home construction market
When the housing market fell started to fall off a cliff in 2007, it began a multiyear overcorrection in supply. As the following slide shows, the market has been undersupplying household demand for several years and projects to continue to do so for the foreseeable future:
Image source: Lennar investor presentation.
This production deficit should lead to higher prices for homes as well as increasing demand for construction-related materials and supplies.
While that steady rebound should benefit the entire construction market, some companies are in a stronger position to lead the way, with the following five standing out above the rest:
Construction Stock Ticker Symbol Market Cap What Makes It a Top Construction Stock Weyerhaeuser (NYSE: WY) $22.8 billion Largest lumber supplier in the country Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) $17.4 billion Diversified hand and power tool maker D.R Horton (NYSE: DHI) $10.7 billion America's largest homebuilder since 2002 Lennar (NYSE: LEN) $9.3 billion One of America's largest homebuilders Eagle Materials (NYSE: EXP) $3.8 billion Major manufacturers of concrete and wallboard
Data sources: Weyerhaeuser, Stanley Black & Decker, D.R. Horton, Lennar, and Eagle Materials.
Don't miss the forest for the trees
Most people would not consider a timberland real estate investment trust (REIT) as a construction stock. That is especially after Weyerhaeuser split-off its homebuilding business to merge it with Tri-Point Homes in 2014. That said, because Weyerhaeuser is one of the largest timber, land, and forest products companies in the world, it is in a prime position to profit from the continued recovery in the construction market.
For example, as the largest timberland owner in the U.S. -- controlling more than 13 million acres -- Weyerhaeuser benefits in several ways from a rise in new home construction. First, its timber business benefits from rising saw log prices, with every $5 per ton increase adding $75 million to its bottom line. Second, as land values rise, it can sell more of its timberlands for higher and better uses, such as residential development projects. Furthermore, Weyerhaeuser is one of the country's leading wood product manufacturers and, like its timber business, these operations benefit from increasing demand and rising prices. For example, every $10 per million board feet improvement in lumber prices due to an improving housing market drives a $40 million incremental improvement to Weyerhaeuser's bottom line. Needless to say, Weyerhaeuser has the potential to be a significant beneficiary as the construction market continues its recovery.
Image source: Getty Images.
Building a brand one acquisition at a time
Stanley Black & Decker, likewise, might not be considered a pure construction stock but it makes building possible. In fact, it is the No. 1 tools and storage brand in the world, making it the tool company to own in a housing rebound. Currently, new and existing residential construction accounts about 35% of the company's tools and storage business, while commercial construction accounts for another 12%, which gives investors plenty of upside exposure to those markets as building activities improve. Meanwhile, the company continues to acquire additional tool companies, which provides it with the potential to accelerate earnings and revenue growth should construction activities take off.
Nobody builds more homes than D.R. Horton
According to the National Association of Homebuilders, D.R. Horton is America's top homebuilder for both closings and revenue, which is a spot it has laid claim to since 2002. The company currently operates in 78 markets across 26 states, closing more than 38,500 homes over the past year. Furthermore, its homes run the gamut of $100,000 starter homes to $1 million mansions. Needless to say, an investment in D.R. Horton provides pretty broad exposure to the housing sector.
Despite its already large size, D.R. Horton has plenty of room to run. The company continues to ramp up production and currently has a huge inventory of more than 25,000 models, specs, or sold homes under construction as of the end of June, nearly double its inventory at the same time in 2012. Additionally, it controls a substantial land position, consisting of more than 200,000 acres of owned and optioned land, which supports double-digit revenue and pre-tax profit growth for the foreseeable future. Suffice it to say, America's largest homebuilder is well positioned to cash in as housing continues to heal.
Building its way to the top
Lennar is the country's second-largest home builder, which is a title it has held since 2014 when it wrestled it away from PulteGroup. However, at roughly 25,000 annual home closings, there is still a pretty wide gap between it and top homebuilder D.R. Horton. However, Lennar recently announced the acquisition of fellow homebuilder WCI Communities(and its 1,100 annual closings) to help close that divide. The WCI Communities transaction expands Lennar's footprint in several key growth markets of Florida.
Looking ahead, Lennar is moving into a mid-cycle stage where it sees its growth moderating a bit from 15% to 20% down to 7% to 10% as it harvests its strong land position. However, this pivot should drive up it is cash flow generation as it spends less to acquire land. That strategic shift, as well as the company's focus on creating operational efficiencies, should drive profit growth in the years to come.
Image source: Getty Images.
Cementing its future position
While Eagle Materials is not the largest construction materials company, it does offer investors diversification into two key building products: Cement and wallboards. Cement is a widely used building material for sidewalks, foundations, and driveways, while gypsum wallboard is the most commonly used product for interior walls and ceilings. Demand for both products should continue to grow along with the construction market.
That certainly has been the case in recent quarters, with Eagle Materials' cement business reporting record operating earnings due to rising cement prices thanks to robust demand. The company is particularly bullish on cement these days, which is why it recently spent $400 million to acquire a cement plant in Ohio to boost its annual capacity by 20%. Meanwhile, its gypsum wallboard and paperboard segment benefited from rising prices and sales volume during the quarter. It sees both trends continuing due to the general strengthening of the construction market.
Investor takeaway
While the residential construction market has improved since the financial crisis, America still isn't building enough houses to meet long-term demand. That means construction activity should continue growing, which should drive demand for building materials like wood, cement, and wallboard, as well as for tools. Meanwhile, top home builders should also win because they will need to build more houses, which they should be able to sell at higher prices, therefore capturing higher profits. Suffice it to say, a portfolio of top construction stocks should do very well in an improving construction market.
Forget the 2016 Election: 10 stocks we like better than Weyerhaeuser Donald Trump was just elected president, and volatility is up. But here's why you should ignore the election:
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Matt DiLallo owns shares of PulteGroup and Weyerhaeuser and has the following options: short April 2017 $20 calls on PulteGroup and short April 2017 $30 puts on Weyerhaeuser. The Motley Fool recommends Eagle Materials. 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.
In this segment from Market Foolery,Chris Hill is joined by Bill Barker and Jim Gillies as they consider the growing challenges at Valeant Pharmaceuticals (NYSE: VRX), which has seen scandal after scandal tank its stock price and reputation. The question remains: Does Valeant still have value, or a future, as a public company.
A full transcript follows the video.
This podcast was recorded on Nov. 1, 2016.
Chris Hill:Let's start with, in honor of Jim Gillies, as though this were timed, Valeant Pharmaceuticals. Once upon a time, the largest public company in Canada, which, as you pointed out on a previous episode of Market Foolery, that's kind of the ...
Jim Gillies:As soon as you hear that.
Hill:That's the death knell for any public company in Canada.
Gillies:That's not a bank.
Hill:That's not a bank.
Gillies:Yeah.
Hill:If you're the No. 1, you're the biggest public company, it's time to short that stock.
Gillies:Yeah, titles previously held by Nortel, Research in Motion, and BRIUS.
Barker:Who is it now?
Gillies:It's back to being Royal Bank of Canada.
Hill:Valeant Pharmaceuticals, former CEO Micheal Pearson, and former CFO Howard Schiller are the subjects, not of a soon-to-be released biopic film. No, they're the subjects of a U.S. criminal probe, proving once again that the market's reaction may be the best indicator of how to view this news.Shares of Valeant up a little bit on this.
Gillies:They were down a lot more yesterday, when this news started filtering out.
Hill:Where is this company going? Is this company in any legitimate danger of going away altogether, or when you look at this company, do you think there is value here, that they need an entirely fresh start, if at all possible, and there is a way forward for this company?
Gillies:That's a lot of questions, it's a big question, and it's a company that I have, frankly, not had the greatest love for, so I'm kind of tainting myself here when I say I've never liked the company, never got the story, watched with dismay as it was a multi-bagger before, of course, crashing down 90%.
I think their debt load, they've got 30-odd billion dollars in debt. That is going to necessitate the company as going to need to change. I think they're currently trying to figure out ways.
The new CEO came over from, I think his name is Joseph Papa, fromPerrigoor somewhere, another company. He's trying to revamp the company. Bill Ackman, the activist investor, who was now former CEO, disgraced CEO Mike Pearson's bestest buddy for a while there before forgetting his name.
They're trying to right the ship, and I don't think that Valeant in its present form can survive. I think it's another case of a lesson of when you are trying to gain the system where the party on the other side of the transactions that you are affecting is a large, powerful entity called United States government.
In a lot of cases, this was basically -- they were jacking the prices on the drugs, and the ultimate payer is the government, who has pushed back. I think for other examples of that particular phenomena, you can look at the for-profit educators, which have largely been run out of business or otherwise decimated.
I think that when you get into that situation, you probably should expect the government to push back and push back hard. If you have been doing things of a quasi-legal nature, which is certainly the suggestion of what's going on now with Valeant, you should probably expect to take the probes that Mr. Pearson and Mr. Schiller are currently experiencing.
Hill:Thank you for reminding me that Bill Ackman is still involved in Valeant Pharmaceuticals.
Gillies:He's on the board.
Hill:As aChipotleshareholder, I was worried that he was going to be spending a lot of time trying to...
Gillies:Fix Chipotle?
Hill:... exert influence at Chipotle. It's nice to know that he has other fires he's trying to put out.
Bill Barker, what about you? When you look at Valeant Pharmaceuticals, is there anything ... I mean, this is, for those unfamiliar, this is an untraditional pharmaceutical company in that typically, pharmaceutical companies are plowing a lot of money into research, looking for that next blockbuster drug. Valeant's path to growth was almost entirely through acquisition, so I'm just curious what you see when you look at Valeant.
Bill Barker:I am just reminded of the Oscar-nominated song from South Park, "Blame Canada".
Gillies:It was an Oscar-nominated song?
Hill:It was.
Barker:Yeah. That's about as much as I have on this one. I think that ...
Gillies:You cannot blame Canada for this, this was an inversion of an American company.
Barker:I can blame Canada.
Hill:Have you met him? Of course ...
Barker:I can blame Canada. You're just dodging it. After promoting this company all those years, like you and every other Canadian, and now it's going to take the good and hard work of U.S. regulators ...
Gillies:Criminal prosecutors.
Barker:... and criminal prosecutors to bring one of the many Canadian criminals to justice. If only we had enough time to get the rest of them, is my feeling.
Bill Barker has no position in any stocks mentioned. Chris Hill owns shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill. Jim Gillies owns shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill. Jim Gillies has the following options: short January 2017 $82 calls on Royal Bank of Canada. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Chipotle Mexican Grill and Valeant Pharmaceuticals. 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.
If at first you don't sell or spin off, try, try again.
In September, Pfizer (NYSE: PFE) announced that it had decided not to split its legacy drug business off from its higher-growth innovative health segment. Now Reuters has reported that the healthcare giant is considering either selling or spinning off its consumer healthcare business. My advice is this: Go for it, Pfizer.
Image source: Getty Images.
Good for shareholders
Pfizer ultimately decided against spinning off the legacy essentials health business because the company's management thought staying together would be better for shareholders. The company must now go through the same thought process in determining whether or not to divest the consumer healthcare business. I think moving ahead would be good news for shareholders.
Based onEuromonitor International's retail sales data, in 2015 Pfizer had the fourth-largest consumer healthcare business in the world. The company claimed two of the 10 biggest-selling global consumer brands with Centrum and Advil. According to Reuters, sources say that Pfizer believes the business could be worth up to $14 billion.
In the first nine months of this year, Pfizer's consumer healthcare business generated sales of $2.46 billion. However, this reflected a slight decrease from sales in the prior-year period. Pfizer's shareholders need growth to drive the stock higher. Consumer healthcare isn't delivering that needed growth right now.
My view is that Pfizer could put the $14 billion or so that it has invested in its consumer healthcare business to better use. That amount coincidentally matches what the company paid to buy Medivation. Now, Medivation's Xtandi is one of Pfizer's key sources for future growth. Unlocking the money currently tied up in the consumer healthcare business could allow Pfizer to make more growth-oriented investments.
Spin vs. sell
Merck (NYSE: MRK) chose to sell its consumer healthcare business back in 2014 rather than spin off the unit as a separate company. The transaction provided over $14 billion to the big drugmaker, making more money available for later acquisitions of Cubist and Afferent Pharmaceuticals.
While Merck hasn't been a stranger to spin-offs, the company chose to sell its consumer healthcare unit. Perhaps one key factor behind Merck's decision was that there was a willing buyer ready to fork over a lot of cash (namely,Bayer). That could be a consideration for Pfizer, also.
Reckitt Benckiser Group PlcCEO Rakesh Kapoorpublicly stated in late 2015 that his company would be "very interested" in potentially buying Pfizer's consumer healthcare business should it become available. Kapoor's comments were made when Pfizer was in the midst of attempting to acquire Allergan. Although that deal ultimately fell through, Reckitt Benckiser could be a ready buyer should Pfizer look to sell.
Of course, Pfizer will need to thoroughly examine all of the financial pros and cons of spinning off the consumer healthcare business versus selling. There can be tax advantages associated with spin-offs that outright sales don't enjoy. However, if Reckitt Benckiser or another party is primed to buy and offers the right price, a sale could be the better option for Pfizer.
What will Pfizer do?
I had hoped that Pfizer would spin off its established health business earlier this year. The company chose to do otherwise. Reuters reported that inside sources at Pfizer said the evaluation of next steps was in an early stage and that the company might decide to keep its consumer healthcare business. That's similar to language Pfizer used when deliberating about spinning off its established health business.
At this point, it's anyone's guess what Pfizer will do. I think, though, that parting ways with its consumer business might be more palatable than spinning off its legacy drugs unit. Selling to consumers requires a different business model and mindset than selling prescription drugs. That could tilt the decision more toward a sales or spin-off of the consumer healthcare business.
Merck hasn't regretted its consumer healthcare sale. Pfizer wouldn't, either, in my opinion. I'll say it again: Go for it, Pfizer.Your shareholders deserve it.
Forget the 2016 Election: 10 stocks we like better than Pfizer Donald Trump was just elected president, and volatility is up. But here's why you should ignore the election:
Investing geniuses Tom and David Gardner have spent a long time beating the market no matter who's in the White House. In fact, the newsletter they have run for over a decade, Motley Fool Stock Advisor, has tripled the market.*
David and Tom just revealed what they believe are the ten best stocks for investors to buy right now... and Pfizer wasn't one of them! That's right -- they think these 10 stocks are even better buys.
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*Stock Advisor returns as of November 7, 2016.
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Trump triumphs [By Zhai Haijun / China.org.cn]
After one of the most bitterly fought elections in U.S. political history, Donald Trump has emerged victorious. However, many would agree that the toughest job now is how to lead and pull together the increasingly 'divided' States of America.
The post-election protests against Trump now going on in major cities such as San Francisco and Chicago point to how deep this divide truly is. Indeed, it looks like more citizens voted for Clinton than for Trump though the U.S. Electoral College system gave him the most electoral votes and hence the win.
The division in the U.S. occurs along many fault lines. The first is geographic. The democrats dominated the upper East and West coast states while Republicans dominated the middle, north and south. Another aspect of geography is urban versus rural. The more conservative rural areas tended to go for Trump while big city populations favoured Clinton, except in rust-belt areas where globalization and the GFC have taken heavy tolls on jobs and manufacturing.
Educationally, those with university qualifications tended to vote Clinton while the working class sided with Trump. Clinton's unfortunate description of Trump supporters as a "basket of deplorable" suggested an "elitism" and "hubris" that was offensive to many U.S. citizens who saw professional politicians such as Clinton as seriously out of touch.
Related to educational attainment is class. The statistics show that over the last decade middle class Americans have seen jobs disappear, wages stagnate, homes lost and debts increase. There is intense anger by these groups who feel they have been ignored.
Race and ethnicity were also a big part of this campaign. There were unfortunate and hurtful comments made about American Muslims, Latinos and other immigrants. Various racial and ethnic groups from both right and left extremes received great attention. Tolerance, acceptance, celebration of diversity and other more positive values seemed to take a back seat against blame, hatred and victimization. The white working class seemed in this election to protest by voting for Trump and change.
Gender was also a factor in many people's minds. Some argued that one should vote for Clinton because she was a woman; while others rejected Clinton because she was a woman. Yet, notwithstanding that Clinton lost this election, all would acknowledge that she advanced the cause in major ways by winning her party's nomination and the popular vote.
Religion was also a factor. In addition to the Islamic factor mentioned above, it is significant that the evangelical heartland of the South voted very strongly in favour of Trump. The U.S. remains a very religious country and recent democratic leftist reforms in relation to marriage, abortion and complete removal of religion from public life have been opposed by many for whom religion remains a central part of their lives and a core belief.
Clinton, as a former First-Lady, Senator and Secretary of State, was definitely an "insider." Trump, as a business person who has never held political office of any kind, is definitely an outsider. Washington insiders versus outsiders was thus yet another divisive theme as reflected by Trump's comments about "draining the swamp." Indeed, the approval rating of Congress is at an all-time low and after eight years of one party being in power, it is a healthy thing to bring in new people with fresh ideas and perspectives. Both the Sanders supporters on the "left" and Trump supporters on the right were united only in their opposition to politics as usual.
Inward looking U.S. versus external engagement. Donald Trump is a domestic populist. His rhetoric advocated for re-negotiating important trade treaties such as NAFTA, rejecting the TPP, building a wall on the border with Mexico and requiring NATO and other allies to carry their fair share of the burden of defence. Interestingly, this vision contradicts the views of many traditional Republicans who favour free trade, promote globalization and want a strong America playing a proactive leadership role in the world. An inward looking U.S. could also pose major challenges for world stability, globalisation, trade and world peace. Hopefully, the many extreme and inflammatory comments made in the heat of an election will be tempered by reality and guided by experienced experts who will be part of Trump's new team.
Environment versus development. In contrast to President Obama's strong commitment to reduction of global warming and promoting alternative sources of energy, Trump was critical and sceptical of this agenda and promised to re-invigorate coal. Finding a middle-path through environmental issues will be a huge issue for Trump and could greatly impact the Paris Climate accord.
Social versus traditional media. It was also interesting in this election how social media (e.g. Trump's use of Twitter and "reality TV" strategies played central roles. This contrasted with traditional media and polls that seemed out of touch and either failed to see or did not want to see the groundswell that arose and led to an unexpected Trump victory.
For China-U.S. relations in this new context, it will be important for China to re-double efforts to engage with the new administration and seek to strengthen partnerships, maximize mutual advantage, work through differences and find a common path forward. Donald Trump is supposed to be a great negotiator. Successful negotiators know that genuine "win-win" outcomes are the ones that last and go on to strengthen relationships that lead to productive outcomes.
Having now won the election, the momentous challenge ahead for President-elect Trump will be how to put the "united" back into the U.S. Hopefully, it will be true of this election that what is said in elections is often tempered by reality and the need to compromise once a person is in office.
Eugene Clark is a columnist with China.org.cn. For more information please visit:
http://www.china.org.cn/opinion/eugeneclark.htm
Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors only, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.
A Republican senator helped his constituents get around this weekend by moonlighting as a driver for the ride-sharing service Uber.
In a series of tweets, Ben Sasse of Nebraska explained his decision to get behind the wheel by saying he works "alongside and for" the people of the Cornhusker state.
Sasse says the money he earned is going to charity. As a senator, he's not allowed to make any money outside his congressional service.
Sasse worked late Saturday night and found that at least a few of his fares had been partying a little too much.
He quipped, "if you throw up in an Uber, the surcharge can be substantial." But the risk has rewards. He says it's a "market incentive to get drivers to agree to" Saturday night shifts.
The Kremlin says President Vladimir Putin has warned German Chancellor Angela Merkel that Ukraine could siphon off gas intended for European consumers in the coming winter.
Putin warned Merkel in Monday's call that the risk of Ukraine's "unsanctioned draw-off" of the Russian gas supplied to European consumers via a transit pipeline could increase during what is forecast to be a cold winter. The Kremlin said the EU and Russia will continue discussions.
There was no immediate comment from Ukraine.
Past gas disputes between Russia and Ukraine have led to cutoffs. One standoff in 2009 caused serious disruptions in winter supplies to EU countries.
Russia's annexation of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula and its support for separatist rebels in eastern Ukraine brought relations between the two ex-Soviet neighbors to the verge of full rupture.
Some police departments are relaxing age-old standards for accepting recruits.
They are lowering educational requirements or forgiving some prior drug use to try to attract more people to their ranks.
The changes are designed to deal with decreased interest in a job that offers low pay, rigorous physical demands and the possibility of death, all while under public scrutiny. There's also the need to lure more minorities.
The Connecticut State Police is among the agencies wrestling with diversity.
Blacks and Hispanics comprise about a third of trooper applicants and about a quarter of the state's population, but only 10 percent of the force.
An Associated Press review finds that only 28 African-Americans and 38 Hispanics have graduated from the academy since 2004.
In this segment from the Rule Breaker Investing podcast, David Gardner continues to share some of his Foolish thoughts on this divisive political climate. This time, he ponders the idea of conscious capitalism, the non-profit vs. for-profit dichotomy, and the question of organizational purpose. In a perfect world, even non-profits would have a better handle on their bottom lines.
A transcript follows the video.
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This podcast was recorded on Oct. 19, 2016.
David Gardner:You know, four years ago, I attended a conference called the Conscious Capitalism Conference in Austin, Texas. It's held every year. In fact, my brother is there this week as we speak. I'm just back here in Alexandria doing my podcast. But Adam Braun (who's the founder of an organization called Pencils of Promise, which The Motley Fool has done some good stuff with in the past), Adam stood up in front of the crowd and said something I thought was wonderful. He said he doesn't like it when people call Pencils for Promise a "non-profit" or a "not-for-profit". He doesn't like that. He thinks of his organization as afor-- in this case,for-purpose.
And I like that a lot because I don't tend to frame things up in terms of for-profit and not-for-profit too much. I think that what really unites most organizations is a purpose; whether it's The Motley Fool, whose purpose is to help the world invest better. Whether it's the purpose of the organization that you might work for, or whether it's Adam's Pencils for Promise, every organization has a purpose. And my hope for every organization is when possible (and it's not), when possible to earn a profit in pursuit of its purpose.
I realize that sometimes, especially when I was going through college, it seemed like for-profit corporate was greedy, and wrong, and you know, lots of my peers in college would not have been voting for that. And by contrast, and somewhat Dickensian comic contrast, in my mind, not-for-profit, so-called, was thought of as really a wonderful, wholesome thing. Save the world. Altruistic. And all the really good people go to work for those. Well, now, 30 years removed from college, I can say with confidence that if every not-for-profit (or for-purpose, in Adam Braun's words) organization could earn a profit; I wish for it that it would, for the dynamics that we just described.
In fact, if you think about the difference between owning a house and renting, you'll recognize where I'm headed, here. I think when you are for-profit, you have shareholders (they might be private, or you might be a public company), and they're owners. They have an owner's mentality. When it's really done well (and we try to do that really well as Fools), we're patient, long-term minded, and we feel like owners, and we treat that stock, and the system itself, like a house that we're going to keep clean, because it's our house.
By contrast, I think a weakness of things that don't earn profit or can't earn profit is that they are ultimately unsustainable, relying on people to give. Now the good news is, I hope you give. I try to give, too. I hope you try to give to good organizations that you respect and that you want to sustain, but the truth is that if organizations aren't earning a profit, then they rely on your and my altruism. They rely on our generosity, and they hope that we'll be more generous every year. And darn it, when the stock market goes up, I think we can do a good job with that over the course of time (to give a little bit more every year).
But it's still a weakness of the model if you are CEO of one organization or the other -- I think I, anyway, I'm not going to choose for you -- I would choose the thing that earns profits, because then you can reinvest in yourself and grow in a sustainable manner.
And so, that's one of the things that I love about business, and to get back to my point: At the end of the day, we should be judging all organizations not by whether they're earning a profit or not, but by what their purpose is, how big their purpose is, and how effective they are at fulfilling it. So, that's ultimately how I think I score how any organization has done. But the difference between, I think, the common view (which is that for-profit things are greedy and not-for-profit things are cool); at least in my experience, that doesn't really resonate.
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.
To a roaring crowd at the Fox News Republican presidential debate last January, Texas Senator Ted Cruz vowed to "repeal every word" of Obamacare.
Though Cruz ultimately lost the presidential nomination to Donald Trump, the man then considered the underdog, the significance of Cruzs sentiment was not lost on the American people.
Forty-seven percent of voting Americans, and 83% of those who voted for Trump, think the 2010 federal health care law went too far, according to Fox News exit polls on Election Day.
Former NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani, who is reportedly being considered for a top position in a Trump administration as either Attorney General or Secretary of State, went so far as to say Obamacare is what ultimately gave the businessman the edge over Hillary Clinton on November 8.
Being part of the campaign, we put [Obamacare] up front in all of Donald Trumps speeches for the last two or three weeks...That seems to me to be the thing that moved the votes, he said Sunday in an interview on "This Week with George Stephanopoulos."
Trump has repeatedly made the promise to repeal and replace the health care law, and now that he has won the citizens mandate, his supporters are expecting him to fulfill that promiseand fast.
Late Friday, Trump announced during an interview with the Wall Street Journal he will make health care a priority, though he is not opposed to keeping parts of the Affordable Care Act intact, including coverage for pre-existing conditions and allowing children to remain under the parents plans until the age of 26. This is a far cry from Cruzs battle call to repeal every word of the law.
Should Trump supporters be worried about the President-elect softening his stance?
The answer is yes, according to Michael Cannon, the Cato Institutes director of health policy studies.
"Trump basically endorsed keeping Obamacare's central and most harmful provision," he told FOXBusiness.com. "If he sticks to that position, it means he has abandoned repeal. His base will interpret that as complete acquiescence and conclude Trump is no better than the rest in Washington."
On the other hand, unraveling President Obamas signature domestic policy achievement may not be as easy as the businessmans supporters believe, even with single party control over the legislative and executive branches.
The Republican base that got Donald Trump into the White House may be in for a rude awakening. Screaming repeal it at a rally is easy. Actually crafting hundreds of pages of legislation that clears four to five Congressional committees, the best-funded lobbying groups in Washington, and manages to secure 218 votes in a very fractured House majority is much, much tougher, Adam Beck, Assistant Professor of Health Insurance at The American College of Financial Services, told FOXBusiness.com.
There are two ways President-elect Trump can go about repealing the Affordable Care Act, though neither of them will be quick nor easy.
The Republicans do not have a filibuster-proof majority in the Senate, meaning they would need to swing eight to nine votes from the Democratic side in order to pass legislation. That is unless, as the Democrats infamously did in 2010, the Trump administration rams a bill through Congress with no approval from the other side of the aisle.
It is conceivable they could do this on a straight party-line vote, hold the House [caucus] together. You have to nuke the filibuster in the Senate, and just go straight party-line all the way, Paul Howard, senior fellow and director of health policy at the Manhattan Institute, told FOXBusiness.com.
Though as President Obama found out that can be an unpopular option. Merely six years after his groundbreaking legislation was enacted, it became the rallying cry for the opposition party, possibly even catapulting a political newcomer into the Oval Office.
The other option is reconciliation. Reconciliation is a legislative process allowing certain matters to be expedited by forbidding a filibuster, which means the Senate would only need 51 votes for approval.
However the scope of this process is limited to assessing certain tax, spending and budget measures.
As it pertains to the healthcare law, this means anything tax-related could be addressed, according to Beck.
This could be a January 21 or January 22 initiativethey will be able to repeal anything that they can put through reconciliation, Beck said. The individual mandate, which is essentially a tax provision. Thats going to be gone. The employer mandate, gone. The tax subsidies that fund the exchange are going to be gone.
Because of the promises Donald Trump has made to his supporters, Beck believes he will be under a ton of political pressure to get the repeal part of the Affordable Care Act through right away, which could give way to a lot of chaos.
While Trumps administration may be able to begin the repeal process immediately, the replace part will be a little more difficult especially since they have yet to unite behind a coherent replacement plan. Trump has outlined some traditional Republican bullet points such as HSAs, purchasing insurance across state lines and reestablishing high-risk pools; far from a comprehensive alternate policy proposal.
Another potential hurdle for the Trump administration: Time. Health care reform was the Democrats seminal policy objective for decades, and it took them equally as long to pass something that is now facing repeal.
The real challenge [will be] finding something the Republican coalition is going to coalesce around that fulfills their promise both to repeal and replace, and finding something that can actually pass the Senate, Howard said.
However, as Howard pointed out, philosophical splits run deep in the GOP, which will make it harder for the Republicans to coalesce around a singular plan while holding the caucus together in the House.
Aside from simply getting the Republicans to rally around one common health care proposal, a bigger challenge could be getting leaders from across the aisle to step up to the negotiating table.
The $64,000 question is what is the Democratic calculus right now? Is it to come to the table and deal? Or do you say this is President Obamas signature domestic policy achievement, it is incredibly popular on the left and theres a lot of discontent here. So does the Warren, Sanders wing of the party go to Chuck Schumer and say we're not compromising on anything? Howard asked.
It took years to get Obamacare up and running and now Trump wants to upend the certainties consumers, health care providers and insurers were finally coming to terms with.
We dont know what to expect and that can create a lot of disruption, Howard warned.
Ford (NYSE:F) became a lightning rod of the 2016 presidential race, as Donald Trump hammered the automaker for expanding its manufacturing operations in Mexico. The president-elect also targeted other automakers and manufacturers for doing the samepart of Trumps broader criticisms of the North American Free Trade Agreement.
The top car-producing states in the nation ultimately sided with Trump, who swept through the Rust Belt on Election Day.
In Michigan, the epicenter of Americas auto industry, Trump won a state that hadnt supported a Republican candidate since George H.W. Bush in 1988. The Republican nominee also took Ohio, the second-largest car producer among the 50 states, with relative ease. A similar story played out in Indiana, whose vehicle production is slightly ahead of Kentucky this year.
Overall, the seven states that have manufactured the most cars so far this year all lined up behind Trump: Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Alabama, Tennessee and Missouri.
It was apparent that Trumps message resonated with voters who work in manufacturing. According to Fox News exit polls, union households supported Hillary Clinton by an eight-point margin, below President Barack Obamas lead of 18 points in 2012. The results marked the lowest union support for a Democrat in the past 20 years.
Trump carried 52% of the union vote in the battleground state of Ohio, far better than former Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romneys 37% support. About half of Ohio voters believe trade with other countries costs American jobs, while 32% said trade creates jobs. Among those who think trade hurts jobs, 67% backed Trump.
An internal poll by the United Auto Workers union showed 28% support for Trump before the election, and another 6% of members were undecided. However, during a press conference following Trumps victory, UAW President Dennis Williams conceded that the unions poll may not have accurately reflected Trumps overall support among auto workers.
Consider that Trump likely garnered support from voters who have lost their jobs in the manufacturing sector, including car factories.
Trump successfully reached those Americans by targeting NAFTA and what he characterized as imbalanced trade deals that encourage companies to ship jobs overseas. For car companies, Mexico has become another critical region for manufacturing, particularly for small cars. Compacts generate smaller profits at their price point, so companies such as Ford have moved production of most small cars to Mexico.
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (NYSE:FCAU) has gone a step further. The Italian-American firm will stop building the Chrysler 200 and Dodge Dart in two plants in Michigan and Illinois at the end of this year. CEO Sergio Marchionne was seeking a partnership with another car maker who could make the midsize sedans, but no deal has materialized.
Ford made its own move official in September, announcing that all small cars would be produced in Mexico. Earlier this year, Ford detailed plans to invest $1.6 billion to build a new assembly plant in the country.
Trump has threatened to push for tariffs as high as 35% on cars imported from Mexico, arguing that a tax is necessary to encourage companies to focus on building cars in the U.S. Ford CEO Mark Fields defended the companys record, arguing that manufacturing moved to Mexico was replaced with other models built in the U.S. Chairman Bill Ford revealed in October that he met with Trump to discuss the matter.
After Trumps victory, Ford released a statement saying it agrees with Trump that it is really important to unite the country and we look forward to working together to support economic growth and jobs. Likewise, House Speaker Paul Ryan said Republicans will focus on adjusting U.S. taxes on border adjustments rather than imposing tariffs.
A group representing the industry has already reached out to Trumps transition team to suggest changes to federal fuel-efficiency rules that are seen as overly burdensome, among other proposals.
The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, which includes top automakers like Ford and General Motors (NYSE:GM), said the regulations are a substantial challenge for car companies, according to a letter cited by multiple reports.
Also, Williams expressed a willingness to work with the Trump administration on trade policies, saying his position on the issue is right on.
"Beverly Hills, 90210" cast members are paying tribute to ailing co-star Shannen Doherty.
Doherty is being treated for breast cancer and didn't take part in a "90210" reunion panel at the Rewind Convention in Chicago over the weekend.
Luke Perry, whose character had an on-screen romance with Doherty's, told the audience Saturday that Doherty was "a very big part of the success of the show." He added that Doherty is "not doing well right now but sometimes her contributions are minimized."
Fellow cast mate Jennie Garth praised Doherty on Instagram by sharing a picture Saturday with a quote, "Fight Like A Brenda," a reference to Doherty's "90210" character, Brenda Walsh. Garth calls Doherty the "strongest lady I've ever known."
On Friday, CBS Lesley Stahl sat down with President-elect Donald Trump for a wide-ranging interview that covered myriad topics following his historic election win. The 60 Minutes interview aired on Sunday, and clips promoting the exclusive were shared by CBS ahead of the program.
Some viewers, however, are questioning why CBS did not immediately post a clip in which Trump told any of his supporters who are reportedly harassing minorities to stop it!
Stahl told Trump some of his supporters are allegedly harassing Latinos, Muslims. Trump replied, I am so saddened to hear that and I say stop it. If it helps, I will say this, and I will say right to the camera: stop it!
Trump tells supporters responsible for violence to 'stop it' and CBS releases various other bits of footage but holds that for two days. Archie Bland (@archiebland) November 14, 2016 I wonder why @CBS sat for two days on a Trump interview in which he asks his followers, finally, to stop committing acts of violence. Andy Jones (@andyojones) November 14, 2016 CBS gets Trump to say stop it (PRESIDENTIAL!) to his crazy followers and SITS ON IT FOR 48 HOURS. CBS deserves whatever punishment he doles. Mark Waid (@MarkWaid) November 14, 2016
Some CBS viewers wondered why the network didnt air the clip sooner as reports have claimed some Trump supporters have attacked members of minority groups following his election win.
Mini conspiracy theory bubbling that CBS sat on Trump's quote condemning violence. This is so dumb. Trump was free to comment at any time!! Choostas (@Choostas) November 14, 2016 The way I see it - CBS has documented proof Trump knew about the attacks since at least Friday, but has still not said anything else. Brad Brisco (@BradBrisco) November 14, 2016
Some voices in the Twitterverse, however, defended the network, saying Trump could have spoken out about the issue at any point.
Ahead of Sundays 60 Minutes episode, the network shared a clip that focused on Trump's comments about ObamaCare, formally known as the Affordable Care Act.
CBS told FOX411 regarding the criticism: "This interview was full of newsworthy material and we released a quote on the issue that affects millions of Americans and that was his statement on ObamaCare."
"60 Minutes" also tweeted at least two other clips ahead of Sunday's airing. The clips, which were shared on Twitter, focused on Trump's conversations with Hillary and Bill Clinton after the election.
A North Carolina television station said Sunday it will review its policies and procedures after receiving flak over censoring some of parts of the Saturday Night Live broadcast hosted by comedian Dave Chappelle.
Steven Hammel, the vice president and general manager of the NBC affiliate WRAL, confirmed that the audio outages were intentional and in line with their obscenity, decency, and profanity policy.
Our broadcast operators have a 10-second delay button they can choose to use. During 'Saturday Night Live' on NBC, guest host Dave Chappelle used 2 of those words on 9 different occasions and they were silenced, Hammel said in a statement.
Obviously, 'SNL' is a live show so we had no prior indication about what would be said during the broadcast. We understand this caused disruption during the program. We wanted our audience to know this was a station decision, not the network's, and why we made that choice.
He added in a statement later Sunday: This is an opportunity for us to review those policies and procedures. We will, and will consider viewer input as we do that."
According to the Raleigh News & Observer, the audio outages occurred during Chappelles opening monologue and a spoof of The Walking Dead, which featured old characters Chappelle portrayed on the short-lived Chappelles Show.
Saturdays episode was an emotionally-charged episode which featured Chappelles return to the sketch comedy stage since his departure from Comedy Centrals Chappelles Show.
Chappelle kicked off the show with a monologue about the election and gave a message of hope in regards to Donald Trumps victory and a recent visit he made to the White House. Chappelle told of attending a recent BET-sponsored White House party attended mostly by African-American guests.
He recalled how rare it was in past centuries for blacks to be allowed to visit the White House, adding that he relished seeing "how happy everybody was, these people that had been historically disenfranchised."
"It made me feel hopeful, and it made me feel proud to be an American, and it made me very happy about the prospects of our country," Chappelle said.
"So, in that spirit, I'm wishing Donald Trump luck, and I'm going to give him a chance," he said. "And we, the historically disenfranchised, demand that he give us one, too."
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Click for more from the Raleigh News & Observer.
President-elect Donald Trump was shunned by many stars in Hollywood but a few celebs stuck by him throughout the election, such as Antonio Sabato Jr., Stephen Baldwin, and Scott Baio, to name a few.
Sabato Jr. told FOX411 Trump can call on him for anything he needs during his presidency.
I believe in his message and that is the type of change we need for this country. Now that he is in the White House, I am going to keep supporting him and if his campaign needs me for anything speeches or showing up whatever needs to be done if he needs me I am there.
Wanda Sykes booed off stage after anti-Trump remarks at charity benefit
Meanwhile, Baio and Baldwin expect to be punished in Hollywood for their support of Trump, even though he has won the election.
Personally if I dont ever work again and Donald Trump is now president-elect Im good," Baio said on "Justice with Judge Jeanine" on Sunday.
Baldwin hinted that he hopes to remain close with the president-elect.
Weve come up with an idea: The two Fresh Princes of the White House, starring Scott Baio and Stephen Baldwin," Baldwin joked. "We may need to be adopted by President Trump at this point. Thats how bad the situation is.
Michael Moore storms Trump Tower demanding meeting with president-elect
However, Dan Gainor, VP of business and culture for the Media Research Center, said pro-Trump stars may want to distance themselves from the president-elect.
I think the media will work hard to make association with Trump toxic especially in Hollywood. The rational reaction by Tinsel town would be to admit they are out of touch with much of America. Unless they are willing to do that, I think Hollywood may well punish famous Trump supporters.
Variety Senior Editor Ted Johnson expects Trump will stand by his famous supporters.
Everything I have heard and read is that Trump values loyalty. He should too, as a lot of these figures took a pretty big beating during the campaign by going to the mat for him. Remember, there were a lot of conservative celebrities who just sat this one out and didn't want to get into the partis fray.
North Carolina TV station reviewing policies after censoring parts of 'SNL'
Jill Stanley Cohen, founder of celebrity legal news site ProofwithJillStanley.com, agrees that Trump will keep his famous friends nearby.
Donald Trump will certainly keep his loyal Hollywood friends close; That doesn't mean they will be appointed to cabinet positions or be named the next ambassador to France."
No matter what's in store for their friendship, Sabato Jr. doesnt expect Trump to slow down anytime soon. He said the president-elect is just getting started.
Ive talked to Donald Jr., I told him and his family how proud I am of him and his father and to tell him I send my congratulations.
Flash
Rumen Radev, a candidate backed by the Bulgarian Socialist Party, won the presidential runoff in Bulgaria, two exit polls showed on Sunday evening.
According to Alpha Research agency, Radev is expected to have 58.1 percent of the votes against 35.3 percent for the GERB party candidate Tsetska Tsacheva, and 6.6 percent preferred the option "none of the above."
Gallup International anticipated 58.5 percent for Radev, 35.7 percent for Tsacheva, and 5.8 percent "none of the above."
The official results are expected to be announced on Wednesday and the new president will take office in January.
As many as 21 candidates participated in the presidential elections. Incumbent President Rosen Plevneliev, who won the last presidential elections in Bulgaria in October 2011 as a candidate of the GERB party, has decided not to run for a second five-year term "for personal reasons."
The 53-year-old Radev has been a professional jet fighter pilot since 1987 when he graduated from the country's air force university. He has also graduated from the Military Academy in Bulgaria and an Air War College in the United States, and holds a PhD in military science, flight training and air combat simulations.
Throughout his career, Radev has held various positions from junior pilot to the commander of the Bulgarian air force, the last one from June 2014 to August 2016 when he retired from the army.
Radev demonstrated his skills as pilot in October 2014 when, during a flying show at Sofia Airport, he performed with MiG-29 breathtaking aerobatic elements such as "Cobra" and "Bell."
The buck has a green score of 308 3/8 inches.
The word in the woods is Stephen Tucker of Gallatin, Tennessee may just be the most famous (or blessed) whitetail hunter in the world after he reportedly leveled his muzzleloader and killed what could be the largest whitetail shot in the world a 47-point monster (yeah, thats 4 and 7)just days after his gun misfired and he passed on a questionable shot on the same animal.
Tucker, 26, told The Tennessean he saw a big buck (estimated to be 3 years old) and tried to shoot it last Saturday, but the powder charge didnt go off. The salt in his proverbial wound was he spied the same deer later that day, but he didnt get what he felt was a clean and ethical shot.
15 Big Bucks Tagged on the Best Day of the Rut 2016
"I was just hoping I would see him again after I passed up the shot the second time I saw him," Tucker said. "My thinking was the second time I saw him was as far away as he was and as big as he was, I wanted to make sure that I killed him. I didn't want to cripple him. I said to myself, 'If I cripple him, nobody will get to kill him.' The last thing I wanted to do was be the guy who crippled a deer like that, Tucker told the Tennessean.
Two days later, on November 8, Tucker got got his third chance and made a 40-yard shot on the giant buck. When the smoke cleared, and the tape measures started calculating inches, Tucker realized he might have tagged something special, and he notified the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA).
"There's no doubt it's going to be the new state record; I mean, that's an absolute," TWRA District 21 captain and official Boone & Crockett Club scorer Dale Grandstaff told the paper. "As far as the world record, (the rack) is about an inch over the world record."
Hunter Impaled by Elk Rack in ATV Accident
Grandstaff scored the nontypical rack at 313 2/8-inches gross. The net score after deductions was 308 3/8, according to the Tennessean.
While Grandstaffs thoughts are a little premature (Boone & Crockett requires a 6o-day drying period before calculating official antler scores), the green tabulation certainly bests the Tennessee record of just over 244, set by Dave Wachtel in 2000. Time will tell if it knocks out Tony Lovstuens world record Iowa deer that scored just over 307 5/8 inches (net) in 2003.
"I realize there's only a possibility that it's going to be a world record; all we're worried about right now is that it's the state record," Tucker said. "If it is the world record, that would be great. But I'm not getting my hopes up on that."
A NASCAR racer and several drivers crew members paid tribute to a North Carolina boy who died last week after battling leukemia.
Jake Leatherman, 5, had always wanted a NASCAR-themed funeral, and his wish was granted on Nov. 9. NASCAR racer Joey Logano, Matt DiBenedetto, Ryan Ellis J.J. Yeley, and crew members from the teams of Kyle Busch, Aric Almirola, Jimmie Johnson and Dale Earnhardt, Jr. attended the boys funeral, which took place in Hickory, North Carolina.
Instead of coats and ties, some attendees wore driver firesuits and crewmen uniforms.
Loganos wife, Brittany, learned about Leathermans story after seeing a Facebook post by a Charlotte TV reporter.
"She had just watched the video, and told me about him and how he was a big race fan," Joey told NASCAR.com, "and I thought it would be cool if we could do something for his funeral."
The couple provided a small race suit with Leathermans name on it and, because the boy was a fan of Richard Petty, the racing champions famous No. 43 car number.
"We all came together and were all there for him, but we didn't get to meet him and give him his race suit and how cool he would have thought that was," Joey told NASCAR.com. "To see all his heroes and pit crew members there that day would have been very special."
Holidays are a double whammy when it comes to gaining weight. Not only do many of us overdo it in the calorie department this time of year, but now Israeli researchers have also uncovered another potential cause of holiday-related weight gain: the jet lag you suffer while traveling.
So how exactly are a growing belly and your red-eye flight to visit your aunt across the country connected? Your gut bacteria.
You know how jet lag prompts your body to feel like it's 6 a.m. even when the clock says it's noon? That travel-related clock chaos is throwing off your gut bacteria, too. And that impacts a lot, considering researchers are now calling the gut the "second brain" because it regulates everything from mood to weight and weight-related issues.
According to the researchers, disrupting your natural circadian clock (through both changing light-dark cues and altered eating habits) also changes the rhythms and compositions of your gut bacteria.
More: 9 Weird Things Killing Your Gut
The researchers first tested their theory on mice and found that disrupting the mice's microbiomes by inducing jet lag led to weight gain and diabetes-like metabolic issues in the animals. These findings were echoed in a case study of two jet-lagged humans making the trek from the U.S. to Isreal. The researchers found that the humans' gut microbiome had shifted to favor the growth of bacteria that have previously been associated with weight gain.
"These findings provide an explanation for a long-standing and mysterious observation that people with chronically disturbed day-night cycles due to repetitive jet lag or shift work have a tendency to develop obesity and other metabolic complications," says Eran Elinav, MD, researcher with the Weizmann Institute of Science.
Fortunately, there are easy ways to get over jet lag quickly, says Mark Moyad, MD, MPH, author of The Supplement Handbook. First, forget the sleeping pills. "While these medications do cause drowsiness, they don't necessarily promote deep sleep or improve the quality of sleep," he says.
Also, keep in mind that not all jet lag is created equal. "Flying east is usually worse because you lose time," he says. "Going from Michigan to Europe or the Middle East, you lose five to eight hours, which means bowel habits, meals, and other daily rituals get thrown off. Flying west, you gain time, so it is usually easier to adjust because there's still time during the day for your body to take care of its normal rituals."
Here, we have Dr. Moyad's seven tricks to get over jet lag faster:
1. Melatonin
Dr. Moyad says taking 0.5 to 5 milligrams before bedtime can help you sleep better until you adapt. While your brain makes the melatonin hormone naturally to help you sleep, there are plenty of factors that can throw off your natural production.
"[When it comes to jet lag,] timing is critical," says Dr. Moyad of taking melatonin for jet lag. "If you take it too early, you'll fall asleep too early and delay your adjustment to local time. Take it at bedtime every night until you adjust to the new time zone."
More: 15 Relaxing Things You Should Do Before Bed
While you shouldn't take melatonin more than you need to (as it is possible to develop a tolerance to it), it's safe to use melatonin to proactively avoid jet lag. By taking a dose of melatonin at your projected bedtime in the new time zone, your body can get a head start on adjusting.
Traveling with your family? Three to 5 milligrams before bed is a safe dose for kids, but keep in mind that your kid may need less.
A few tips on buying melatonin supplements: "Don't be lured by pricey combination products," he says. "So many companies combine it with two or more ingredients and claim that it works better than melatonin by itself. Don't fall for it!"
Talk to your doctor about melatonin if you're on antihypertensive mediation, are on warfarin, or have epilepsy.
2. Limit the alcohol
Maybe enjoy the big Thanksgiving game without a beer (or with fewer beers) this year. "It might make you drowsy," says Dr. Moyad, "but alcohol reduces deep and refreshing sleep and even REM (dream) stage." He also points out that drinking can lead to fragmented sleep (even if you don't notice it) and more disruptions due to nighttime bathroom breaks.
3. Ease up on caffeine in the evening
"Caffeine stays in the body (in large amounts) for about five to six hours," explains Dr. Moyad. "So if you're reaching for a java jolt between 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. or later, you may still be feeling the effects at midnight."
More: 6 Things You Should Never Do Before Bed
4. Keep cool
A cool temperature is one of the body's triggers for sleep, explains Dr. Moyad. Fortunately for you, it's winter so all you have to do is crack a window and let the sleep breeze in.
More: 50 Ways to Sleep Better Tonight
5. Sign up for a 5K or other exercise
Dr. Moyad says that having a regular exercise routine is a great way to help you fall asleep at the end of the day. In fact, studies have shown that any kind of exercise, whether it's intense or gentle (like restorative yoga), can have a beneficial effect.
6. Unplug
Calming down your brain with acupressure or meditation can help with turning off a restless brain. Try these calm-down drinks to help you relax, naturally. And be sure to turn off your phone several hours before bedtime, since the light from electronics can mess with your sleep cycle.
7. Don't waste your time (or money) with...
Kava or kava kava. This antianxiety supplement is getting a reputation for damaging the liver. Dr. Moyad says it's not worth it, considering there are safer options. Other supplements Dr. Moyad suggests avoiding are passionflower, hops, wild lettuce, Jamaican dogwood, California poppy, and skullcap because there is a lack of scientific evidence that they're effective, despite the marketing claims.
This article originally appeared on RodaleWellness.com.
Retired Marines Cindy and James Hufford took on an unexpected role when they stepped in to raise their 2-year-old grandson, who suffers from numeours medical issues.
"He was pretty much neglected since he was born, since we got him. You see that and you can't allow it," Cindy told Fox 46. The Rock Hill, South Carolina, couple said the alternative to taking in Ryley was putting him in a foster home. The Huffords did not disclose why their son could not care for the child. Cindy herself grew up in an orphanage.
Ryley suffers from severe scoliois, a rare genetic disorder, and digestive disorders that require him to be fed through a tube in his stomach.
"Our mission in life is to try and figure out what's going [ON?] to make Ryley happy and how do we solve Ryley's medical issues," James told the news channel.
Doctors say Ryley may need a potentially life-threatening brain surgery because his brain has shifted to one side, but his family said the toddler is simply too weak to undergo the procedure. Their proposed solution is a cranial band helmet, to help correct the problem, but their insurance doesnt cover the cost.
"He's a baby, he's small, he's vulnerable, and obviously you want him to live, ," James told Fox 46. You don't want to break him in some kind of fashion and you want him to be comfortable.
Is it scary? he added. Every day.
On Saturday, All Things Possible Ministry hosted a fundraiser for Ryley. All proceeds will go toward purchasing a cranial helmet and a special P-Pod chair designed to allow children with special needs interact with family while also offering postural support.
"The mission in life is honestly not only to take care of him but get him to smile because when he does, it will melt your heart," James told Fox 46.
Nathanaelle Bernard was two months short of the due date for her first child when Hurricane Matthew crashed through her town overlooking the Caribbean Sea along Haiti's southwestern coast.
The storm, with its 145 mph winds, destroyed her small home of cinder blocks. Powerful waves carried away most of her belongings, including the clothing and blankets she had managed to collect for her baby. She's now anxiously awaiting the birth amid the ruins of her town, with even food and fresh water scarce.
"I always had this dream my child wouldn't want for anything," the 19-year-old said on a recent morning, her face glowing with sweat as she cradled her swollen belly. After a pause, she added: "It was a nice dream."
She shares a makeshift hut with five members of her extended family and her precarious situation is emblematic of an alarming situation across Haiti's southwestern peninsula in the wake of the storm. The U.N. Population Fund says nearly 14,000 women are due to give birth in the next three months amid widespread shortages of meat, clean water and housing in an area where poor sanitation has created ideal conditions for cholera and other diseases.
Even in the best of times, pregnancy and childbirth is risky in Haiti, which has the highest maternal mortality ratio in the Western Hemisphere. Many rural women give birth at home, often with untrained midwives who administer care using leaves made into tea, smoke or steam.
The Haitian government, with international assistance, has implemented programs that have helped reduce the maternal death rate by nearly half over the past decade. But, with 359 women dying for every 100,000 births due to complications, Haiti is on par with countries such as Ethiopia and Madagascar, according to the U.N.
Many experts fear the advances have been rolled back by Hurricane Matthew, which made landfall on the peninsula Oct. 4. The government says the storm killed 546 people and destroyed the crops and livestock that people like Bernard and her family depend on for survival.
"It is tragic that a single storm can tear up so much of this progress, and that in a single day we can be set back by years," said Marielle Sander, representative for the U.N. Population Fund in Haiti.
Throughout the disaster zone, health clinics and hospitals have been badly damaged and medicine is in short supply, adding what Sander calls a "lethal combination" of factors that threaten pregnant women and newborns, especially those born with complications.
At the general hospital in Les Cayes, the region's largest city, about a dozen pregnant women sought care on a recent morning, some complaining about symptoms of high blood pressure. Expecting women in Haiti are disproportionately threatened by disorders such as eclampsia and pre-eclampsia, which bring high blood pressure and can cause seizures, heart failure and hemorrhaging.
"Before the hurricane we didn't have enough antibiotics and other medication. But now the situation's harder. We need more of a lot of things," said Lucie Naomie Lafortune, the ward's head nurse.
Bernard occasionally gets shooting pains in her stomach, retreating to a bed in the shack her uncle built from scavenged materials after the family's home was destroyed. She curls up with her eyes shut tight, taking acetaminophen she got from a nurse.
She tries her best to push out negative thoughts. But that's tough to do while undernourished and with little protection from any number of diseases stalking people here, including the mosquito-borne Zika virus that can cause serious birth defects if women are infected while pregnant.
Romual Saint-Jean, the 27-year-old father of her unborn child, moved Bernard to her uncle's coastal village from Port-au-Prince after she contracted typhoid in early 2016. They believed Coteaux's salt air and slow-paced life would do her good.
Now, he desperately wants to move the family overseas but has no idea how that might happen. Saint-Jean, who lost his $300-a-month job in July as a Portuguese-Haitian Creole translator for Haiti's U.N. peacekeeping mission, is struggling to find work.
"I don't see a future here," he said after returning from another discouraging job-hunting effort in the capital.
The young couple met last year in the back of a "tap-tap," colorfully painted group taxis that connect Haitians to jobs, markets and each other. Saint-Jean told buddies he thought he had met his future wife.
Pretty soon, Bernard was pregnant. They were happy and excited, even if the baby wasn't planned.
But the pressures are growing and she sometimes has to steel herself to hold back tears.
"I worry most about nutrition," said Bernard, who subsists mainly on rice, corn meal and bean sauce. "How can my baby be strong if I'm not eating well?"
Associated Press journalists accompanied Bernard to the public hospital in the wrecked town of Port Salut, where she got a free checkup. But she couldn't afford an ultrasound to find out the baby's sex before delivery.
Some of the young couple's happiest times are debating names. With a pealing laugh, Nathanaelle said she only knows it won't be Fabienne or Fabiola if it's a girl because she dislikes names that begin with "F." A Pentecostal pastor recently placed his hands on her swollen belly and suggested Jonas if it's a boy.
Grimacing slightly as she hoisted herself from a wooden bench, she prepared for the most relaxing part of her day: Lowering herself into the gently lapping sea and giving her swollen ankles a rest.
Bernard knows her family's immediate prospects are not good. But when she's floating in the shallows she meditates on what remains.
"We lost the things we had. But we're not lost," she said after drying herself on the sandy beach where she and her neighbors bury their waste. "We're alive. Our baby is alive. And that's what's most important."
Prolonged exposure therapy is a common form of treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in U.S. veterans and active-duty soldiers, but researchers in central Florida are taking the approach to a new level with virtual reality (VR).
Iraq War veteran Bruce Chambers, who was one of the first patients to go through the three-week program at the University of Central Florida (UCF), said the therapy has reduced his paranoia, and made him a better father and husband, Fox 35 Orlando reported.
It changed my life, Chambers told the news station, and if it can change my life, it can change another soldier's life.
Called the UCF Restores program, the regimen guides patients through group and virtual reality therapy, and, like, prolonged exposure therapy, places the veterans back into the traumatic experiences that triggered their PTSD. Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares, depression, an increased risk of suicide, hyperarousal, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Dr. Deborah Beidel, founder of UCF Restores, described the program as intense, but the advantage is that we can really take care of this disorder, and treat this disorder thoroughly and effectively in a short period of time, she told Fox 35.
The therapy aims not to erase veterans traumatic memories but to eliminate the stress that accompanies those thoughts. Beidels research suggests 66 percent of patients find success with the program, Fox 35 reported.
With virtual reality, Chambers relived the PTSD-inducing moment when he hit a 400-pound improvised explosive device (IED), was knocked unconscious and got ambushed during a 15-month tour in Iraq. As he sat in a chair that shook him to simulate the explosion, familiar smells from the day like car exhaust and burning flesh were also replicated. He relived the moment repeatedly until his anxiety diminished, Fox 35 reported.
I think other people need to hear about this because its changing lives, Chambers told the news station.
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Ken Felix has a lot of faith in people. He spent 40 years as a veterinarian, treating every size and type of animal from parakeets to hippopotamuses, and relished the freedom from lawyers and insurance companies that his medical-doctor friends couldnt enjoy. Most of all, he liked his clientele.
Physicians treat everybody everybody gets sick, Felix, 68, told FoxNews.com, but [as veterinarians] we only see the people who care enough about their animals to bring in their animals, and theyre all nice people.
Felixs faith in humans was tested in May 2015, when he suffered a life-threatening bike crash in his hometown of Erie, Pennsylvania, that led doctors to detect then use video-assisted surgery to remove his stage 3 non-small cell lung cancer. Felix smoked as a teen but hadnt taken a puff in nearly 40 years, and he hadnt been presenting any symptoms of his cancer.
The father of two and grandfather of five doesnt chalk up his post-treatment survival to karma, but he does think good fortune had something to do with it. So do his doctors.
Unfortunately, for the majority of patients, when [lung cancer] is found curable, its found by luck, Felixs oncologist Nathan Pennell, director of the lung cancer medical oncology program at the Cleveland Clinic, told FoxNews.com. By the time patients present with symptoms, such as pain and weight loss, its often spread and is not curable, so it was really lucky that we had picked this up.
The bike accident left Felix with 12 fractures in eight ribs, a fractured shoulder blade, a concussion, and a flail chest, wherein a portion of the ribcage detaches from the chest wall, usually due to severe blunt trauma.
I cant tell you how many miles Id ridden and never crashed, said Felix, who at that time had indulged in 30-, 40- and 50-mile rides on the backroads of the Pennsylvania countryside. I shouldnt have bragged.
A post-accident scan indicated a lesion on his left lung, which doctors eventually diagnosed as stage 3 non-small cell lung cancer, and treated with radiation, chemotherapy and surgery.
Its never safe to smoke for any amount of time, so anyone whos smoked is at a higher risk [of lung cancer], Pennell said. He added that after 15 years of quitting smoking, an individuals chance of developing lung cancer drops to twice that of a never-smoker as opposed to about 20 times that of an active smoker. Ten to 15 percent of lung cancer patients have never smoked.
First operated on at UPMC Hamot in Erie, Felix had five titanium plates, with six to eight screws each, implanted on the left side of his chest. At the time of the crash, doctors at UPMC noticed the lesion but initially suspected inflammation due to the rib fractures. A month or so later, they performed a navigational bronchoscopy and took a biopsy to confirm it was inflammation, but the doctor asked Felix to return in another year so he could check on its status, he recalled.
Doctors did a PET scan and a CT scan, as well as a percutaneous biopsy, in which they stuck a needle in his chest, and test results indicated an EGFR mutation, which 40 percent of nonsmokers with lung cancer also have, Pennell said.
Through online research, Felix knew he had a 14 percent chance of surviving five years, but he didnt waste any time feeling sorry for himself. He asked a cousin who practices oncology in Detroit for advice and received a referral to the Cleveland Clinic, where Pennell recommended two cycles of chemotherapy and five weeks of radiation followed by surgery.
The regimen eradicated nearly all of the cancer, so Felix underwent two additional weeks of radiation. As if luck had struck him again, Felix didnt suffer common chemo side effects like nausea or vomiting.
I am just lucky, Felix said.
His surgeon Dr. Daniel Raymond, thoracic surgeon and chief quality officer for thoracic surgery at the Cleveland Clinic, said the subsequent operation took seven hours, or three times as long as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) typically does. During VATS, surgeons insert a small camera called a thoracoscope and surgical instruments through tiny incisions in the chest wall. The camera transmits images from inside the chest to a video monitor, which helps to guide the surgeon through the procedure.
Although VATS has been practiced since the early 90s, and one-third to one-half of all lung resections for cancer are done with VATS, Felixs surgery was unique because of his prior injury, which made his ribs less compliant, and led to scarring in his chest from blood retention. Raymond and his team used a cardiopulmonary bypass machine as a backup and had vascular surgeons on hand during the operation to input stents in case Felix started bleeding.
The challenge is that as the complexity gets higher, the chances of a successful video surgery is less, Raymond told FoxNews.com. We were working in a confined space, and his chest is what wed call hostile his lung was scarred to his chest wall, and it was a difficult operation.
Typically during VATS, surgeons make one incision through which they place the camera and two others through which the instruments go. But because Felixs ribs were noncompliant, his surgery was trickier, Raymond said.
In [Felixs] circumstance, the skin incision was the same, but we were going between multiple rib spaces because the ribs were so tight together [that] we could barely get one instrument between them, he explained. Typically, you can put two fingers through a working port incision. In his circumstance, we could not get a finger between the ribs. The ribs were essentially fixed in place due to his prior trauma surgery.
The other challenge Raymond and his team faced was the cancers proximity to Felixs blood vessels. To dissect the cancer, surgeons had to sacrifice the vagus nerve, which branches to the left vocal cord. Following surgery, Felix could not talk, but he underwent a vocal cord medialization procedure to temporarily correct the issue and begin speaking again. In December, hell undergo an additional procedure to permanently fix his vocal cords.
Because he was in good shape, Felix recovered within four days of his VATS procedure, surpassing Raymonds expectation that he would need seven days to recover.
His recovery was incredible, Raymond said. It is a testament to the fact of what happens when you are in great shape. In addition to his physical condition, its his mental condition. He is one of those people who has an indomitable spirit, and things can never get him down.
Although 40 to 50 percent of patients with stage 3 lung cancer will be cured with the aggressive treatment regimen that Felix received, only 15 to 20 percent of people with Felixs non-small cell lung cancer are cured with it.
But Pennell thinks Felixs physical health may put him at an advantage.
For people who are healthy enough, and whose cancer is limited enough, and can go through these three types of treatment, the outcomes tend to be better, Pennell said.
Felix said he feels great and is proud that he weighs the same today as he weighed when he had his bicycle accident. He credits surviving the crash and the surprise cancer to his commitment to fitness and eating healthy, as well as his good genetics. He also credited the people on his support team, including his wife Jan and doctors, and his positivity.
And then theres a thing called luck, Felix said.
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DANVILLE, Calif. Mike Baughman considered himself one of the lucky ones, returning from Vietnam without any major injuries or psychological scars. But after falling ill nearly a half-century later, he found out he did not escape the war after all.
The 64-year-old is among hundreds of veterans who have been diagnosed with a rare bile duct cancer that may be linked to their time in the service and an unexpected source: parasites in raw or poorly cooked river fish.
The worms infect an estimated 25 million people, mostly in Asia, but are less known in America. They can easily be wiped out with a few pills early on. Left untreated, a cancer known as cholangiocarcinoma can develop, often killing patients just a few months after symptoms appear.
The US government acknowledges that liver flukes, endemic in the steamy jungles of Vietnam, are likely killing some former soldiers. Ralph Erickson, who heads post-deployment health services at the Department of Veterans Affairs, said about 700 cholangiocarcinoma patients have passed through the agencys medical system in the past 15 years.
Claims from 307 veterans requesting benefits have been submitted over that period, and yet the vast majority 3 out of 4 have been rejected, according to data obtained by the Associated Press through the Freedom of Information Act.
The VA requires veterans to show medical conditions are at least as likely as not related to their time in service to receive financial help, but doctors note that often isnt easy with bile duct cancer caused by liver flukes.
The parasites typically go undetected, sometimes living for more than 25 years without making their hosts sick. The body reacts by trying to wall off the organisms. This causes inflammation and scarring and, over time, can lead to cancer. The first symptoms are often jaundice, itchy skin and rapid weight loss. By then, the disease is usually advanced.
If American doctors better understood bile duct cancer and the potential risks to those who served in Vietnam, they could use ultrasounds to check veterans for inflammation, and then surgery might be possible for some of them, said Jeff Bethony, a liver fluke expert at George Washington University.
Early is key, he said, adding he regularly receives desperate letters from veterans family members. The VA should be testing for this.
Once diagnosed, most men dont realize there may be a connection to their service in Vietnam. The few who figure it out often spend their final months fighting for recognition and benefits, leaving them feeling angry and abandoned, as many did when they first came home from the war.
Hard to believe, Baughman said in his living room, flipping through a photo album from his war days. I dodged all those bullets, then get killed by a fish.
Baughman had just turned 19 when his draft number came up in late 1970. He was soon deployed to central Vietnam near Hue to do reconnaissance in the mountains. Although he was the youngest in his Army unit, he quickly became one of its most valuable members.
The Vietnamese like to shoot the first guy in line, and last guy, Baughman said. And so thats what I trained to do: Be the first guy in.
He would walk point clearing thick jungle with a machete and, thanks partly to growing up hunting in the hills of West Virginia, he proved gifted at noticing the smallest twig or leaf brushed out of place by the enemy. It was his job to spot booby traps and potential ambushes.
Often on long missions, sometimes forced to sleep outside with sheets of monsoon rain pelting down, his unit would run out of rations and go fishing for dinner near the border with Laos.
We would throw a grenade in the water, and then scoop them off the river floor, Baughman said. We called it fish on a stick.'
The men would use a helmet and a tiny blue smokeless flame to cook the fish as best they could, but it never really got done.
Years later, when he returned home, those makeshift meals became just another story he would tell about roughing it in Vietnam. He went on to earn a masters degree and became a successful engineer in Silicon Valley working for Atari, Apple and others.
In October 2013, he was about to remarry and decided to get a long-overdue physical. He felt fine, but his blood work indicated there might be a problem with his liver. Further testing revealed he had bile duct cancer.
After researching the condition online, Baughman was convinced that worms ingested decades ago in that raw fish on a stick were now killing him.
He turned to the VA for help, and his private physician wrote a letter highlighting the potential connection between the worms and the disease.
He went to a VA doctor as well, who also acknowledged liver flukes were one of the main risk factors for the cancer but concluded there was no evidence of infection from Baughmans service time.
He was twice denied benefits in 2015, and is waiting for the results of his latest appeal.
Liver flukes are found mainly in parts of Southeast Asia, China and South Korea, where residents and tourists alike risk infection from specific types of freshwater fish such as tilapia and carp.
In one location in Laos, researchers found liver flukes which can survive pickling and fermentation in about 60 percent of villagers, and in some parts of Vietnam, up to 40 percent were infected. Experts say its hard to know how many people in the region may be dying from cholangiocarcinoma caused by the parasites because there are few cancer registries.
In northeastern Thailand, where many villagers have a taste for the sour fish dish pla som, new bile duct cancers affect about 85 in 100,000 people, the worlds highest recorded rate. Little research has been conducted outside of Thailand, where mobile clinics routinely perform bile duct ultrasound screenings in hard-hit areas.
Once cancer is detected, surgery is sometimes an option, depending on the tumors location. Liver transplants typically arent performed due to organ shortages and poor prognosis.
In the United States, cholangiocarcinoma is extremely rare, with roughly 5,000 people diagnosed each year, including some Asian immigrants who ate infected fish in their native countries. Liver flukes arent the only risk factor for the disease; others include hepatitis B and C, cirrhosis and bile duct stones.
But some physicians say for Vietnam veterans diagnosed decades after US-backed Saigon fell to communist forces in 1975, the cancer is as likely as not tied to their service time. And by VA standards, that should be enough to receive benefits.
It is the only way to explain it, said Dr. Banchob Sripa, a leading expert on the disease at Khon Kaen University in Thailand. He said doctors in the US and Australia, which also sent troops to the war, have contacted him for help in determining whether the parasites are to blame for veterans cancer.
More than 100 appeals for cholangiocarcinoma dating back to the early 1990s are on the VAs website. Though Erickson said there have been no significant case increases among veterans in recent years, data collected following an AP inquiry showed the number of benefit claims has increased sixfold since 2003.
Claims hit a high of 60 last year, with nearly 80 percent denied. Decisions appear to be haphazard. Some are approved automatically. Others, presented with the same evidence, are denied.
For instance, some rejections were based on the fact that parasites were not found in stool samples, but those tests were conducted years after the worms would have died. Other claims were dismissed because the veteran did not report his illness within a year of leaving Vietnam, yet symptoms typically dont appear until decades later.
VA officials say while theyre sympathetic, its up to the men to prove that liver flukes from Vietnam are killing them. They say because the cancer remains rare, it would be unrealistic and onerous to carry out regular screenings.
This is still a legal process that both the VA and the veteran have to go through, and we will look at each case and all the evidence that is presented to us and make a determination at that point, said Steve Westerfeld, a spokesman for the VAs Veterans Benefits Administration. Certainly any veteran has an opportunity to appeal.
Many do, sometimes two or three times before either getting approved or giving up.
Its discouraging to fight for something that you think should probably be available for people who actually went over and served, Mike Brown of Valencia, California, told the AP earlier this year after learning he had bile duct cancer. He died last month at age 68, just days after finding out the VA had approved his claim.
Often, its the widows who are left fighting.
Its bad enough, said Anne Petitti, whose husband, Mario, died from the disease in 2010, just a few months after being diagnosed. They shouldnt be put through the wringer or have to go through all the red tape.
She eventually won her fight with the VA, and set up a Facebook page to help other veterans navigate the system while also cataloging new cases.
How much veterans, or their families, are compensated depends on many factors, including to what degree the illness is affecting their ability to have productive lives. An unmarried veteran can get nearly $3,000 a month, but some spouses said they get about half that amount. For many, its not about the money. Its about raising awareness, both among veterans and the VA, and receiving recognition for their service.
Most vets understand very quickly its a terminal disease and that they dont have much time, Petitti said.
Baughman talks about his own future with caution, even though hes already beaten the odds: He was supposed to have died last November.
The illness forced him to stop working, and his medical bills have skyrocketed from all the tests, radiation and chemotherapy. Hes luckier than some because he has good insurance.
Hes not in touch with most of the guys from his old unit, but he worries about them too. Unlike todays troops, those who served in Vietnam were shunned when they came home. Its one more reason having this medical condition recognized by the VA matters so much to him.
Itd be nice to have me win my little battle, he said. But I want the government to do it for everybody.
Donald Trump has tapped Reince Priebus, the chairman of the Republican National Committee, to be his White House chief of staff.
What does this say about the nascent Trump administration, other than blue laws not applying to presidential transitions?
Here are four takeaways:
1. Respect. Anyone closely following the election couldnt miss that Priebus and Trump had a good working relationship far smoother than the hot mess that was Hillary Clinton, Bernie Sanders and ugly revelations of the Democratic National Committee chairs playing favorites.
Priebus didnt stack the debate deck against Trump. In early October, after the release of the audiotape that nearly sank Trumps campaign, Priebus held a 14-minute phone call with RNC members telling them, in effect, not to abandon ship.
Trump also owes Priebus and the RNC for a multi-year ground game that paid dividends last Tuesday.
In must-have Florida, for example, nearly 300,000 Republicans were added to the voter registration rolls since the 2012 election (Trump carried the state by 120,000 votes). Nearly 1,800 paid staff and trained organizers worked the Sunshine State; nearly 6.5 million volunteer voter contacts were made.
Small wonder the two hugged it out on Election Night.
Lets chalk this up to professional respect in that regard, little different than the simultaneous hiring of Steve Bannon as White House chief strategist and a soon-to-be announced role for Kellyanne Conway, the latter two key campaign insiders.
2. The Trump Card Is Andy Card. Going back to its modern-day inception during the Truman administration, there hasnt been a standard-issue White House Chief of Staff.
Bill Clinton brought in a pal from his Arkansas kindergarten days a Washington outsider from a Fortune 500 gas company whom everyone described as nice. Mack McLarty didnt make it until the first midterm election, replaced by Budget Director Leon Panetta, the ultimate Beltway insider.
Barack Obamas first chief of staff was Rahm Emanuel like Panetta a product of Congress, but with an edgy temperament. Obama wanted a bad cop whod keep a Democratic Congress in line.
If Trumps choice echoes any recent presidency, it might be the Bush 43 White House.
Andy Card, President George W. Bushs first chief of staff, was the timekeeper and gatekeeper. He controlled the schedule, oversaw the West Wings operations and made sure the trains ran on time. Widely respected around town for his political smarts and his personal integrity, Card lasted on the job for five-plus years (two years is more the norm).
This sounds like Priebus job role, with one added responsibility: hell be the one making calls to GOP congressional leadership and the extended world of the RNC to keep the troops in line.
3. Not All "Swamp" Creatures Are Alike. To those having a conniption because Trump went with someone whos a Washington fixture, the choice is a reminder of the reality of life inside the White House: in order to fly the plane, you need someone in the cockpit whos attended flight school.
Nearly six years as the RNC chair means Priebus knows how to run a political organization, can deal with oversized personalities and is sensitive to Washingtons rhythms.
Just as important: smart national committee chairmen keep their egos in check and do their best to stay out of the news. An effective White House chief of staff operates the same way (John Sununus penchant for generating bad headlines was a constant headache in the Bush 41 presidency).
4. A Collective Deep Breath. The choice of Priebus neither guarantees a successful first term nor assures the worst presidency since Harding.
What it is: a smart first step.
Once Trump is through with this first round of inner-circle hires surrounding himself with much of the same crew that delivered the election there will another round of appointments. At that point, well find out whos in charge of policy, communications, congressional relations and legal affairs. Well also know more about the various White House fiefdoms i.e., which deputies have what portfolios.
Stay tuned. Theres never a dull day in the world of Donald Trump even on Sundays.
U.K. Independence Party leader Nigel Farage -- one of the masterminds behind the Brexit campaign -- was pictured beaming with President-elect Donald Trump Saturday. He has good reason to be in high spirits as the new occupant of the White House could be the man to save Brexit -- which is already in mortal danger.
It was a great honour to spend time with @realDonaldTrump. He was relaxed and full of good ideas. I'm confident he will be a good President. pic.twitter.com/kx8cGRHYPQ Nigel Farage (@Nigel_Farage) November 12, 2016
Just as liberals in the U.S. are already trying to find ways to overturn Trumps victory by attacking the Electoral College, in the U.K. they have been doing the same ever since the British people comfortably voted to leave the European Union in June.
The soy-sipping Guardianistas who dominate Britains chattering class -- after calling relentlessly for either a second vote, or for the referendum to be ignored entirely -- have now picked up a significant victory.
A London investment banker has convinced an activist High Court (you know about those, right America?) to determine that in order to even begin negotiating an exit from the E.U. the issue must be first be voted on by Parliament -- made up of MPs who, for the most part, would never have voted to leave the E.U. in the first place.
This means that from now until the vote in probably early 2017, the mainstream media, left-wing activists and members of the London and European establishment will unload every weapon they have in their arsenal to force MPs to betray the voters. While Prime Minister Theresa May -- herself a Remainer but one who is committed to Brexit -- will try and keep her party united, it is likely many will buckle and join the opposition parties in voting to shut down Brexit.
This is where President-elect Trump could make the difference. Britain is now isolated in Europe, with its European allies on one side treating it like a leper, and a skeptical Obama administration shuffling away on the other. Before the vote, Obama famously said Britain would be at the back of the queue if it voted for Brexit, and sure enough the special relationship has apparently stagnated since then.
Britain needs an ally fast, and Trumps America could come to the rescue. Just as Margaret Thatcher gained the ability to face down Europe knowing she had the support of Ronald Reagan, Theresa May could do the same if Trump stands with her.
So what should Trump do?
First he should embrace the U.K. fully. There are signs he is going to do so already, both by his welcome of Farage and his invite for Theresa May to visit America as soon as possible -- despite some negative statements by May and some of her government in the past. When she visits, a strong expression of solidarity, a renewed commitment to the special relationship, and a promise to stand shoulder-to-shoulder through the Brexit process should all be on Trumps to-do list.
Second, he should use Americas power as a trading power to insulate Britain from the ravages of the economic traps Europe is laying for the U.K. Britain is one of the strongest economies in the world; if Europe refuses to trade with Britain in a post-Brexit tantrum, America should step up. It is in Americas interests for the Trump administration to offer the best trade deal it can possibly afford to the U.K. and to offer it quickly.
In his excellent piece on the US-UK relationship, strategist and advisor Lee Cohen notes that the US-UK bilateral investment relationship is the largest in the world, with nearly a million American jobs provided by British companies based in the U.S. and investment into the U.K. amounting to just under $600 billion in 2012. Trump should move hard to expand upon this, and couple it by threatening to withdraw favorable trade deals from European countries trying to sabotage Brexit.
Doing so will boost the U.K. economy (nixing the predictions of the naysayers who predicted post-Brexit armageddon), will stifle European opposition and will soothe the nerves of the London financial market. Additionally, it will prove an argument that Brexiteers have been making for a while -- we dont need to be part of Europe to make good deals with big countries like America, as we can do it by ourselves.
But it would not just be charity by Trump to make Brexit a certainty -- in fact it could be a legacy-defining moment as he pulls Americas closest ally from the fundamentally anti-American E.U., and closer to itself in a way that will benefit Washington.
A Britain free of its European shackles would realign its focus to America, becoming more pro-American and a better ally in military and trade. America saw how valuable a close alliance would be during the Thatcher-Reagan years, where the pair allied up to defeat the Soviet Union, and during the Clinton-Blair and Bush-Blair years where the foreign policies of the respective presidents were bolstered and legitimized on the world stage by unwavering British support.
The same is true of a Trump-May alliance -- a realigned Britain would be more likely to go along with Trumps proposed NATO reforms, his plan to defeat ISIS, and would be less likely to put pressure on the administration for not going along with the business-sapping deals such as the Paris climate change agreement.
It would be a wise and savvy move for the president-elect to jump to the aid of the politically besieged British center-right. By doing so, he will emerge with Theresa May as a strong prime minister and a grateful ally, heading a government with a pro-American, pro-trade, pro-small government vision, and one more than willing to walk side-by-side with President Trump.
Trump may be the only person who can save Brexit -- he should get to work as soon as possible.
Editor's note: The following column originally appeared in The Hill newspaper and on TheHill.com.
What happens to Democrats in the Trump era?
In the 1992 presidential election, after three straight terms of Republicans in the White House, Bill Clinton successfully remade the Democrats into a party of political centrists to regain the support of so-called Reagan Democrats.
When Hillary Clinton lost the 2008 nomination to the future President Obama, he challenged her centrist politics from the left. He attacked her Senate vote in support of the war in Iraq and war-weary Democrats rallied to him.
With Obama leaving office, the Democrats are losing his anti-war focus and the personal popularity that allowed him to hold the Democrats together. The president enjoys a sky-high job approval rating among his fellow Democrats.
So, who replaces him as the working leader of Democrats in Washington? And what is the Democrats new guiding ideology?
The leading candidate to lead the party out of the darkness is Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.). He is widely expected to be the next Senate Minority Leader. But his strong ties to Wall Street are guaranteed to give the most liberal members of his party heartburn.
House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (Calif.), with 30 years in Congress, is expected to remain the top Democrat in the House. But the first woman to serve as Speaker of the House lost the majority in 2010 and failed to recapture it in any of the three elections since then.
Over at the Democratic National Committee (DNC), there is also a leadership vacuum.
Former chairwoman Rep. Debbie Wasserman-Schultz (Fla.) was forced out after WikiLeaks published embarrassing emails showing DNC staffers trying to help Clinton defeat Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) in the Democratic primaries.
Donna Brazile, the current DNC chairwoman, is under fire for emails, again released through WikiLeaks, that claim to show she shared presidential debate questions with the Clinton campaign while a paid contributor at CNN.
At the moment, Democrats are a people distressed at the reality that millions of Americans voted for Trump and did so with full knowledge of his long list of insults, bullying, racist comments and failure to pay taxes. Exit polls showed voters selecting him despite their overwhelming conclusion that he lacks the judgment and experience to be president.
I sincerely hope the president-elect lives up to his promise to bind the wounds of division. Patriotism dictates that Democrats rally behind him and pray for his success as our nations leader. I am trying. It is also good to remember there are lots of Democrats out there. Clinton won the popular vote even as she lost the Electoral College.
If Trump really does try to improve the employment situation for working class people, Democrats should be ready to support him, a recent piece by D.D. Guttenplan in The Nation argued even while they develop the power to pressure him on immigration and climate change.
Democrats need a revived party with a strong leader, as well as a clear message that allows them to stand as the loyal opposition to Trump Republicans.
One way to find the leader is to consider the best Democrat to run against Trump in 2020. International Business Times last week listed six names for the job: Sen. Sherrod Brown (Ohio); Housing and Urban Development Secretary Julian Castro; New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo; Clintons running mate Sen. Tim Kaine (Va.), Sen. Elizabeth Warren (Mass.) and Sen. Cory Booker (N.J.).
I want an uncompromising fighter who understands the values of our base, of our party, and of our nation, Markos Moulitsas wrote at the Daily Kos last week in a blog post on who should be the next DNC Chair. I want a champion who will rebuild the party in all 50 states. I want a hero that will support a whole new generation of new party leaders, candidates, activists and voters. And I want anger. But that may just be the day-after me speaking.
In a Facebook post last Wednesday, liberal filmmaker Michael Moore urged activists to take over the Democratic Party and return it to the people, because they have failed us miserably.
Any Democratic member of Congress who didnt wake up this morning ready to fight, resist and obstruct in the way Republicans did against President Obama every day for eight full years must step out of the way and let those of us who know the score lead the way in stopping the meanness and the madness thats about to begin, Moore wrote.
The progressive populist wing of the Democratic Party, as currently led by Sanders and Warren, has a real opportunity in the coming months to execute a hostile takeover of the Democratic Party, just as Trump took over the Republicans last year.
The internal power struggles within the Democratic Party provide clues to how the partys congressional leaders will deal with pressing issues like pending trade deals, where progressives like Sanders and Warren may find common cause with Trump in opposition to the Trans-Pacific Partnership. Then there is the Supreme Court, where an all-out fight will be required after Senate Republicans never even had a hearing to consider Obamas nominee, Merrick Garland.
Other Trump GOP agenda items like the repeal of ObamaCare and sweeping tax cuts will require progressives to go to the barricades. They will need new ideas and strong leadership and it is not at all clear that their current roster is up to the challenge.
Bernie and Elizabeth, the party is yours for the taking. The opening is there for you to channel all of the pain and anger among Democrats. Will you seize it?
The effort to make Minnesota Rep. Keith Ellison the next leader of the troubled Democratic National Committee gained momentum Sunday with a key endorsement from outgoing Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, as Ellison defended his party by saying Donald Trumps hate and poison caused its election defeat.
My friend Keith Ellison is a terrific leader and a strong progressive who knows how to get things done, Reid said in a statement. Now is the time for new thinking and a fresh start at the DNC. Now is the time for Keith.
Ellison, a Muslim and co-leader of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, has yet to officially announce a bid for the post. But he already has the backing of progressive Sens. Elizabeth Warren, D- Mass., and Bernie Sanders, I-Vermont, as well as incoming Senate Minority Leader Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.
Not only is (Ellison) one of the most progressive members of the Congress, but he also understands that the future of the Democratic Party has got to be grassroots activism, Sanders, a 2016 Democratic presidential candidate, told USA Today last week.
Leaked documents on the eve of this summer's Democratic National Convention showed DNC Chairman Debbie Wassserman Schultz favored eventual party nominee Hillary Clinton over Independent-turned-Democrat Sanders, which resulted in the Florida congresswoman being forced to resign from her post.
The DNCs problems continued in the later stages of the campaign when emails that WikiLeaks hacked from the Clinton campaign showed acting DNC Chairwoman Donna Brazile, also a paid CNN contributor, had given Clinton questions from a CNN debate and a town-hall style event. CNN cut ties with Brazile after the emails came to light.
Former DNC Chairman, presidential candidate and Vermont Gov. Howard Dean and former Maryland Gov. Martin OMalley are also considering a bid for the post.
OMalley was also a 2016 Democratic presidential candidate, and he publically complained that Wasserman Schultz had limited the number of debates to protect the front-running Clinton.
The DNC chairman is usually appointed by a Democratic president and is primarily responsible for raising money for party candidates up and down election ballots.
Ellison, who said he could make a decision as early as Monday about whether to compete for the post, would face a Republican Party that controls the White House, Congress and more than 30 of the country's 50 governorships.
Ellison suggest on NBCs Meet the Press that Clinton lost and fellow Democrats had made only modest gains in the House and Senate because Americans "have been looking at 40 years of flat wages.
"The truth is, we have got to make America work for working people again, he continued. We have to make that our job number one.
Ellison also said no way in the world is Trump, the Republican presidential nominee who upset Clinton, a champion of working people.
I don't know any good thing this guy has ever done, and yet because he was able to throw hate and poison on Hillary Clinton, he was able to somehow prevail, Ellison also said. I'm not going to get up here [and] cast fault on Democrats.
The first of roughly 60 newly elected Senate and House members began arriving Monday on Capitol Hill bringing luggage and briefcases and optimism about a quick deal on infrastructure and other bipartisan projects after a contentious White House race that still divides the country.
I think we might be able to get more common ground than people anticipate. I certainly hope so because our country needs it more than ever, incoming Florida Democratic Rep. Charlie Crist said between exiting a cab and heading for House freshman orientation.
Crist, a former Republican and Florida governor, was among several incoming House members enthusiastic about Democrats and Republicans agreeing on a multi-billion-dollar spending package to create jobs and improve the countrys crumbling roads, transportation hubs and other infrastructure.
COTTON: TRUMP, CONGRESS NEED TO REDUCE ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION
While President Obama took heat for years for his costly stimulus package that backed similar projects, infrastructure spending was touted this year by Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump.
I know that President-elect Trump has talked about the fact that our airports and seaports need to be fixed, as well as our highways and byways, Crist also said. So Im optimistic about that.
Monday also marked the return of sitting senators and House members, who after a two-month recess for the elections have just six weeks to pass a budget to avoid a government shutdown.
On the Senate side, Sen.-elect Catherine Cortez-Masto, who won the seat in Nevada of fellow Democrat and retiring Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, was on Capitol Hill, with the six other new members still arriving.
"I'm honored to be the Senate-elect for the great state of Nevada," Cortez-Masto said during a brief press conference with Reid. "Thank you."
Perhaps the most activity in the upper chamber centered on the arrest of several demonstrators outside the office of New York Democratic Sen. Chuck Schumer, the expected next Senate minority leader.
One of the demonstrators told Fox News the group was made up of disaffected millennials who hold Wall Street-backed Democrats partly responsible for Trump's victory over Clinton, the Democratic presidential nominee.
They sat outside Schumers office and called on him to withdraw his leadership bid.
House Majority Leader Rep. Kevin McCarthy told Fox News that Trump -- whose promise to dismantle the Washington establishment helped him win the White House -- is going to shake this place up.
McCarthy, the No. 2 Republican in the GOP-controlled House, declined to say how his chamber will pass a spending bill to keep the federal government fully operational after Dec. 31, though it will almost certainly take the form of a stopgap measure known as a continuing resolution.
Trumps victory and Republicans keeping control Nov. 8 of their Senate majority will certainly help the GOP achieve its goals of further securing the southern U.S. border and finally getting to repeal and replace ObamaCare.
Neither issue is expected to face any sort of final vote in this so-called lame duck session of Congress. However, McCarthy, of California, suggested the House will be working on the issues long before Trump is sworn in Jan. 20.
House Republicans still have their internal vote for House speaker scheduled for Tuesday and are likely to nominate GOP Rep. Paul Ryan for another term, despite rumblings from some of the most conservative Republicans on Capitol Hill about delaying the vote or an outright change in leadership.
The announcement Sunday that Ryans Wisconsin hometown friend and Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus will be Trumps chief of staff may have helped blunt those efforts. Even Rep. Mark Meadows, R-N.C., a leader of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, said Monday he'll back Ryan for the post.
Meanwhile, a group of about 25 House Democrats on Monday reportedly asked for a delay on voting to reappoint House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. The California Democrat predicted her party would retake control of the chamber but won only a handful of seats.
Our data and ground game and Trumps momentum was a recipe for success up and down the ticket, Republican National Committee spokesman Sean Spicer said Monday.
The House will have 59 new members, though incoming New Hampshire Democratic Rep. Carol Shea-Porter has already served in Congress. And four races remain undecided.
The Senate has six new members, including three newly-arriving Democrats: Cortez-Masto, Kamala Harris of California, and Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire.
The three others come from the House: Reps. Todd Young, R-Ind.; Chris Van Hollen, D-Md.; and Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill.
Fox News' Kara Rowland and Chad Pergram contributed to this report.
Calling the office of the presidency bigger than any one person, President Obama on Monday said the influence America has on a global scale will not be erased by the outcome of one election and added that Donald Trump told him the U.S. would reaffirm its commitment to the NATO alliance.
As a candidate for president, Trump said other members of the treaty organization did not contribute enough for the protections it gets in return. Trumps position seemed to change on the topic in recent days.
Obama called the president-elects new support of NATO one of the most important functions he will be able to relay during his upcoming three-country tour.
There is no weakening of resolve, Obama said.
HOW PRESIDENT TRUMP COULD SAVE BREXIT
Domestically, Obama admitted last weeks major losses for the Democratic Party across the country were a political blow but encouraged his party not to waver on our core beliefs and principles.
When your team loses, everybody gets deflated, Obama said. He added, Its important for me not to be bigfooting that conversation.
Monday marked the first time Obama has taken questions from the press since Trumps election win last week.
The president was also questioned on the status of his legacy laws, including ObamaCare, under a Trump administration and a Republican House and Senate.
Now that Republicans are in charge, theyve got to take a look and say, lets see, Obama said. We got 20 million people who have health insurance who didnt have it before. Health care costs generally have gone up at a significantly slower rate since ObamaCare was passed than they did before, which has saved the federal Treasury hundreds of billions of dollars.
The president then dodged a question about concerns some minorities and other groups have about Trumps decision to name Steve Bannon as his chief strategist and economic adviser.
I think its fair to say that it would not be appropriate for me to comment on every appointment that the president-elect starts making if I want to be consistent with the notion that we are going to try to facilitate a smooth transition, he said.
However, he did note that during his 90-minute meeting with Trump last week, he told him it was important to send signals of unity early on.
But the people have spoken, Obama said. Donald Trump will be the next president, the 45th president of the United States. And it will be up to him to set up a team that he thinks will serve him well and reflects his politics. Those who didnt vote for him will have to recognize that thats how democracy works. Thats how this system operates.
Just days ago, Obama and Trump were attacking one another on policy issues.
Trump ran his campaign on promises to gut most of Obamas signature policies. The president spent the majority of the 2016 presidential election season calling out his now-successor, saying he was temperamentally unfit for the job. Since then, Obama has said his main goal going forward would be to facilitate a smooth transition of power.
Following the press conference, the president will head out on his last major trip abroad where hell likely face similar questions from his foreign counterparts. And though Obama has urged unity and said the U.S. must root for Trumps success, the presidents trip to Greece, Germany and Peru forces him to confront global concerns about the future of Americas leadership.
"The mood of Greek people for this political change is 'wait and see,'" said Nikos Pappas, a minister of state with close ties to Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, in an interview. He said there was surprise in Greece, as elsewhere, about Trump's victory, but added: "Everybody would be expecting the U.S. government is going to continue to be on our side."
Obama's trip, planned when it seemed certain Hillary Clinton would win, had been designed to reassure the world that the U.S. had regained its footing after a toxic campaign that unnerved foreign capitals, noted Heather Conley, a Europe scholar at the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies.
"Now the president has the unenviable task of telling his counterparts and explaining what Europeans are now coining 'the Trump effect,'" Conley said.
For months, Obama lent credence to those concerns as he urged Americans to reject Trump. Standing alongside Singapore's prime minister in August, Obama said Trump was "woefully unprepared" because he lacked "basic knowledge" about critical issues in Europe, Asia and the Mideast. And during a visit to Japan, Obama said world leaders were rightfully "rattled" by Trump.
Now, Obama must reassure the U.S. and other countries that somehow, it will all be OK.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A key member of President-elect Donald Trump's transition team and a top adviser on matters involving immigration told FoxNews.com Monday the incoming administration will likely move to deport illegal immigrants upon arrest.
Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach, a key player in several high-profile immigration measures and court cases, advised Trump on immigration during his campaign and will likely have a key role in shaping the new president's policies. Kobach said Trump is likely to scrap the Obama administration's approach of deporting only those who have been convicted, a policy he said releases dangerous people back into U.S. communities.
The most extreme criminals are deported while criminal arrestees not yet convicted are turned loose, said Kobach. [Under the new proposal,] criminal arrestees will be deported, there will be immediate improvement in safety for all Americans.
Kobach stressed that Trump must sign off on decisions involving enforcement policies, but said candidate Trump signaled clearly what President Trump will do.
Ultimately its his call, Kobach said. There will be a great deal of consistency between the platform and President-elect Trumps policies that is, with the caveat that every decision is the presidents decision.
Kobach spoke to FoxNews.com a day after Trump appeared on CBSs 60 Minutes and said that dealing with immigration would be among his first priorities upon taking office in January. He said he would focus on getting criminals off the streets and out of the country, building a wall though part of it might be a fence, he said and that later he would turn his attention to what to do about other illegal immigrants who have not committed crimes.
After the border is secure and after everything gets normalized, were going to make a determination on the people that theyre talking about who are terrific people, Trump said. Theyre terrific people, but we are going make a determination at that. But before we make that determination . . . its very important, we are going to secure our border.
Some 12 million people are believed to be living in the United States illegally. Roughly 40 percent entered on visas and did not leave when they expired.
Kobach said that Trump will be able to boost enforcement of existing immigration laws right away by undoing Obamas executive actions, and giving Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents more support and freedom to arrest, detain and deport people such as those with criminal records.
Obama ordered ICE agents to stop doing their jobs, said Kobach, who represented ICE agents in a lawsuit challenging Obamas executive actions. The morale of ICE is the lowest morale of any federal agency.
Kobach, who was a force behind Trumps vow to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, and have Mexico pay for it, said that Trump will have the mandate and supportive Congress, with Republicans having control next year of both chambers, to make immediate changes in the immigration system.
Americans think our laws need to be followed, he said. President-elect Trump is in a unique position. He has the mandate from the American people to end illegal immigration and secure our borders for once and for all.
Asked where the Trump administration might draw the line on criminals whether a tougher approach would lead to the detention and deportation of only those arrested for felonies, or for lesser crimes, as well Kobach declined comment.
Kobach added that he did not want to get into details prematurely that had not yet been hammered out or that would put Trump on the spot.
Kobach's appointment to the transition team has raised speculation that he might be named to a post in the Trump administration, but he declined to comment on the prospect.
Advocacy groups are girding for a pitched battle with the Trump administration over illegal immigration, and are warning that deportations - even of criminal suspects - will break up families.
This will rip apart families and become one of the darkest chapters in American history, all because he wants to throw red meat to his hard core white nationalist base, said Frank Sharry, executive director of Americas Voice, a Washington D.C.-based group. His talk of 'criminals' is a strategy to throw sand in the faces of the American people in hopes of covering his tracks. Its up to all of us to make sure he doesnt get away with it.
Few people have been more influential in state-level and nationwide efforts to push for stricter immigration enforcement than the 50-year-old Wisconsin native.
Kobach, who holds degrees from Harvard, Yale and Oxford, co-authored Arizona SB 1070 anti-illegal immigration law, which led to similar legislative efforts in several other states after Congress repeatedly failed to fix the system and address border security.
Kobach served as chief adviser on immigration and border security in the U.S. Department of Justice, and helped shape enforcement programs after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, including the National Security Entry-Exit Registration System, which screened people seeking to enter the United States from countries where Al Qaeda was active.
Kobach predicts that under Trump, local police and federal immigration agents will work more closely.
They play a vital role on being the eyes and ears of the federal government, he said. Most of the arrests by ICE in the past would come from local law enforcement.
Conservative radio host and author Laura Ingraham is among the potential candidates being considered for the position of White House press secretary under the Donald Trump administration, according to a senior source within the Trump transition team.
Ingraham has been a vocal Trump supporter and spoke at the Republican National Convention in July. While a Republican source close to Ingraham added that it is a possibility, other sources said there are other candidates also being eyed for the position. Sean Spicer, who is chief strategist and communications director for the Republican National Committee, and Trump transition spokesman Jason Miller also are being considered.
A senior aide to the Trump team added that while Ingraham is being considered, there is friction between those who want people from the RNC to run the White House versus those who want Trump campaign figures to run it.
GIULIANI FAVORITE FOR TRUMP'S SECRETARY OF STATE
There has been widespread speculation about whom Trump will pick to fill the various positions in his administration during the frantic period between the election and inauguration. President-elect Trump already has chosen RNC Chairman Reince Priebus as White House chief of staff, and controversial former Breitbart head Steve Bannon as chief strategist.
A senior Trump aide confirmed to Fox News that Richard Grenell, former U.S. spokesman at the U.N. under the Bush administration, is being considered for the position of U.N. ambassador. Should Grenell be chosen, it would make him the first openly gay U.S. ambassador.
For other positions, the source said banker Steven Mnuchin is being considered for Treasury secretary, while Ben Carson is being considered for either secretary of Education or Health and Human Services.
Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani are all being considered for Cabinet picks, while retired Lt. Gen Michael Flynn is also being considered for a top post in the administration. Trump campaign manager Kellyanne Conway is also being considered for a top post, but it is not clear what that could be.
Fox News Carl Cameron and Serafin Gomez contributed to this report.
President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday appointed Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus as his White House chief of staff.
Trump also announced that campaign CEO Steve Bannon, the executive chairman of Breitbart News, will be his chief strategist and senior counselor.
Trump said that Priebus and Bannon will work as equal partners" -- as they did in the campaign -- to make the federal government much more efficient, effective and productive.
Steve and Reince are highly qualified leaders who worked well together on our campaign and led us to a historic victory, Trump said. Now I will have them both with me in the White House as we work to make America great again.
The appointments suggest Trump appealing to traditional Republican circles and the party's anti-establishment wing, which helped fuel the businessman's political rise.
Bannon thanked Trump for the job, saying he and Priebus will extend their partnership in Washington to help President-elect Trump achieve his agenda.
Priebus said Trump will be a great president for all Americans and expressed his gratitude for the being able to serve the president elect and the rest of the country in helping create an economy that works for everyone, secure our borders, repeal and replace ObamaCare and destroy radical Islamic terrorism.
Priebus was one of Trumps most loyal lieutenants during the real estate mogul's up-and-down campaign that resulted in many Republicans, particularly GOP candidates seeking reelection, distancing themselves from Trump.
In Trumps victory speech after his upset win over Democratic rival Hillary Clinton, he notably praised Preibus efforts and loyalty.
Reaction to Trumps picks from both parties was quick.
Choice of @Reince as COS over Bannon seems like a strong signal that @realDonaldTrump is taking a more conventional, conservative path, tweeted David Axelrod, a top campaign and White House adviser to President Obama.
South Carolina GOP Sen. Lindsey Graham, who was vanquished by Trump in the Republican presidential primaries and did not support his campaign, tweeted, Congrats to @realDonaldTrump for outstanding choice @Reince to be Chief of Staff. This shows me he is serious about governing.
However, California Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff tweeted: Selection of Steve Bannon for senior WH role unsurprising but alarming. His alt-right, anti-Semitic, misogynistic views don't belong in WH.
And John Weaver, a Republican strategist who worked for Ohio Gov. John Kasich's presidential campaign, tweeted, "The racist, fascist extreme right is represented footsteps from the Oval Office. Be very vigilant, America."
Priebus, an attorney, is a former RNC general counsel and chairman of the Wisconsin Republican Party. He was elected RNC chairman in 2011 and has deep ties to GOP congressional leaders, particularly House Speaker and fellow Wisconsinite Paul Ryan.
Under Bannon's tenure, the Breitbart News site pushed a nationalist, anti-establishment agenda and became one of the leading outlets of the so-called alt-right -- a movement often associated with white supremacy and a defense of "Western values."
Bannon, who became campaign CEO in August, pushed Trump to adopt more populist rhetoric and paint rival Hillary Clinton as part of a global conspiracy made up of the political, financial and media elite, bankers bent on oppressing the country's working people -- a message that carried Trump to the White House but to some, carried anti-Semitic undertones.
An ex-wife of Bannon said he expressed fear of Jews when the two battled over sending their daughters to private school nearly a decade ago, according to court papers reviewed this summer by The Associated Press. In a sworn court declaration following their divorce, Mary Louise Piccard said her ex-husband had objected to sending their twin daughters to an elite Los Angeles academy because he "didn't want the girls going to school with Jews."
A spokeswoman for Bannon denied he made those statements.
Neither Priebus nor Bannon bring significant policy experience to their new White House roles.
Bannon was notably given top billing in the press release announcing the appointments, a curious arrangement giving that White House chief of staff is typically considered the most powerful West Wing job.
Chiefs of staff in particular play a significant role in policy making, serving as a liaison to Cabinet agencies and deciding what information makes it to the president's desk. They're often one of the last people in the room with the president as major decisions are made.
Fox News' Carl Cameron, Danny Jativa and Joseph Weber and the Associated Press contributed to this report.
One of Reince Priebus' first duties after being named chief of staff by President-elect Donald Trump was to defend another of his new boss's appointments, Stephen Bannon.
Bannon, the bare-knuckle media executive who led conservative news site Breitbart until taking on the role of Trump's campaign CEO in August, is credited with blazing a populist path that helped make Trump the president-elect. But his appointment as chief strategist and senior counselor prompted critics to charge he could propel Trump down a more xenophobic path.
Priebus, speaking Monday on "Fox & Friends," said he and Bannon are on the same page when it comes to advancing the agenda of a Trump administration, and downplayed the criticism.
"He was a force for good on the campaign," Priebus said. "I haven't seen any of these things that people are crying out about. ... It's a good team, it works."
TRUMP REPEATS VOW TO BUILD BORDER WALL
Critics are pointing to opinion and editorial stances by Breitbart during his decade-long tenure and charging his prominence in a Trump White House would bring more than just populist nationalism to the White House.
Stephen Bannon was the main driver behind Breitbart becoming a white ethno-nationalist propaganda mill, the Southern Poverty Law Center tweeted. Trump should rescind this hire. In his victory speech, Trump said he intended to be president for 'all Americans.' Bannon should go.
Bannon was reportedly under consideration for the role that went to Priebus, whose selection as chief of staff was mostly met with praise. White House insiders like David Axelrod, former top White House adviser to President Obama, and South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham praised Trump for the appointment.
While Priebus is seen as a consensus builder who knows how to navigate Capitol Hill, Bannon will have Trump's ear. A bomb-thrower who relishes fighting with his political opponents, Bannon's fiery rhetoric is believed to have found its way into Trump's rally speeches as his campaign barnstormed the country leading up to his upset victory over Hillary Clinton Nov. 8.
The Anti-Defamation League also expressed its outrage over Bannons appointment, calling it a sad day.
"We call on President-elect Trump to appoint and nominate Americans committed to the well-being of all our country's people," the groups chief executive Jonathan Greenblatt said, according to The Washington Post.
California Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff tweeted: Selection of Steve Bannon for senior WH role unsurprising but alarming. His alt-right, anti-Semitic, misogynistic views don't belong in WH.
The Council of American-Islamic Relations called Bannon an "anti-Muslim conspiracy theorist and White nationalist alt-right extremist."
While opposition to Bannon from Democrats and CAIR might be expected, John Weaver, a Republican strategist who worked for Ohio Gov. John Kasich's presidential campaign, also piled on.
"The racist, fascist extreme right is represented footsteps from the Oval Office," Weaver tweeted. "Be very vigilant, America."
Bannon was the executive chairman of Breitbart News and under his reign the website pushed a nationalist, anti-establishment agenda and became one of the leading outlets of the so-called alt-right -- a movement often associated with the defense of "Western values."
Bannon pushed Trump to paint rival Hillary Clinton as part of a global conspiracy made up of the political, financial and media elite, bankers bent on oppressing the country's working people -- a message that carried Trump to the White House.
Bannon's rise has led critics to dredge up past controversies, including a report that his ex-wife of Bannon said in the 1990s that he expressed fear of Jews when the two battled over sending their daughters to private school nearly a decade ago, according to court papers reviewed this summer by The Associated Press. In a sworn court declaration following their divorce, Mary Louise Piccard said her ex-husband had objected to sending their twin daughters to an elite Los Angeles academy because he "didn't want the girls going to school with Jews."
A spokeswoman for Bannon denied he made those statements.
Bannon thanked Trump for the job, saying he and Priebus will extend their partnership in Washington to help President-elect Trump achieve his agenda.
I want to thank President-elect Trump for the opportunity to work with Reince in driving the agenda of the Trump Administration, he said. We had a very successful partnership on the campaign, one that led to victory. We will have that same partnership in working to help President-elect Trump achieve his agenda.
Bannon was notably given top billing in the press release announcing the appointments, a curious arrangement giving that White House chief of staff is typically considered the most powerful West Wing job.
Chiefs of staff in particular play a significant role in policy making, serving as a liaison to Cabinet agencies and deciding what information makes it to the president's desk. They're often one of the last people in the room with the president as major decisions are made.
Priebus told Fox News he was "honored" to be chosen and said Trump wants to "do the American people proud."
Its really important that all Americans understand that he is the president for everyone, he said
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A large, unidentified metal object fell from the sky Nov. 10 in the remote mountainous region of Myanmar.
The cylindrical object, which is about 12 feet long and 5 feet in diameter, blasted into the village of Lone Khin, near a jade mine. Villagers woke early in the morning to a loud boom and vibrations, when the object fell to the ground. Though no one was injured, the UFO ripped through a jade miner's tent, and afterwards, the smell of burning filled the air, according to The Myanmar Times.
"Initially, we thought it was a battle. The explosion made our houses shake. We saw the smoke from our village," Lone Khin villager Daw Ma Kyi told The Myanmar Times.
Unidentified piece of an aircraft, believed to be an engine, falls near Hpakant jade mine | #Myanmar https://t.co/W2im1NOCdh pic.twitter.com/NFRCJiAYM5 The Myanmar Times (@TheMyanmarTimes) November 11, 2016
Aerial object
At first glance, the object looks like it may have come from an aircraft.
"I think it was an engine because I found a diode and many copper wires at the tail of the body," villager Ko Maung Myo told The Myanmar Times. "It also looks like a jet engine block."
However, government officials say that they haven't identified the object and are sending experts to examine it. One former government official with the Department of Aviation said that the image shown on Facebook of the metal "UFO" looked more like a rocket booster than part of a commercial plane.
Just yesterday China announced the successful launch of a Long March Rocket 11 into space, along with five satellites and an experimental X-ray pulsar navigation spacecraft, Spaceflight Insider reported. The XPNAV-1 (an acronym for Maichong Xing Shiyan Weixing), a 530-pound spacecraft fitted with solar arrays and two detectors that use X-ray emissions from pulsars to navigate, is meant to identify the locations of spacecraft in deep space.
Space debris is a regular part of satellite and rocket launches. Though the odds of any individual person getting struck by detritus is low, the odds that it hits one of the 7 billion people on Earth is surprisingly high: After the launch of a school bus-sized satellite in 2011, Mark Matney, a scientist in the Orbital Debris Program Office at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, previously told Live Science that the odds of anyone being hit by that debris immediately after the launch were approximately one in 3,200.
Space is littered with junk from past exploration. All told, there were at least 500,00 pieces of space junk marble-size or larger that are orbiting our planet in 2010, though most pieces are on the small side. Of that space junk, more than 20,000 pieces are larger than a softball, according to NASA. In 2012, Switzerland proposed building a kind of space janitor to clean up some of that debris.
Copyright 2016 LiveScience, a TechMediaNetwork company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
National Geographic Channels new event series MARS mixes documentary with scripted drama to explore the colonization of Mars in the year 2033.
Former NASA astronaut Dr. Mae Jemison is involved with the series and shared with Foxnews.com SciTech the advice she gave the actors portraying these space travelers.
If youre using words like nominal and contingency what do they really mean? she explained. Here are some things about personalities what should you know about space and Mars to be comfortable? What is it like? And even doing some exercises about what does it feel like if youre walking in a new place or have been zero G for a long time and then its up to them to take that and move that along.
STRANGE FEATURE ON MARS IS A GOOD PLACE TO LOOK FOR LIFE, STUDY SAYS
Actor Ben Cotton plays the commander of the fictional Daedalus ship that heads to Mars in 2033 and spoke about the conditions while filming: Morocco was where we shot all the exterior stuff and it was challenging from the heat. It was hot. There were days it was 125 degrees in the desert and then you put the suit on, the helmet on, you start to lose your mind a little bit because you cant see straight but we had a great time.
And President of the Mars Society Robert Zubrin discussed what information we have from the Mars Desert Research Station in terms of what the conditions on the red planet would be like.
THE FUTURE OF SPACE: TOP ISSUES FACING PRESIDENT-ELECT DONALD TRUMP
What were really doing at the Mars Desert Research Station is what we call an operational simulation more than a technical engineering simulation, but we find out how you would run a mission on Mars, he said. So for example what weve discovered by running it a number of ways is the mission has got to be led from the front, that is, the commander of the mission is the commander of the crew. We dont even call our mission control mission control anymore we call it mission support - they are there to support the crew - this has got to be led from the front.
He also adds that when it comes to mobility systems there is a preference for ATV-size vehicles that enable a much more informal relationship with the environment in your space suit where you can reach down and pick up a rock and either throw it back or bring it back to sample.
SEE THE 1ST COLOR PHOTOS OF EUROPE MARS LANDER'S CRASH SITE
As for that 2033 date, Dr. Jemison, who was the first African-American woman in space, stresses we call it a human mission to Mars not a manned mission. When it comes to issues at hand, she adds that there are engineering challenges, but the engineering challenges to me are not as great as the public commitment and those challenges because as we do that then we are able to say heres how it benefits life on Earth.
MARS premieres November 14th on National Geographic Channel, which is majority owned by 21st Century Fox, the parent company of Fox News.
Scientists may very well be drooling over a tasty bear monitoring method in Alaska, and the key ingredients are bear saliva and salmon.
The technique involves gleaning genetic information from salmon that brown bears have munched on, and researchers report that it works better, and is cheaper, than previous methods like using feces to identify the bears. Luckily for science, bears dont always finish their salmon meals, and that means that the fish carcasses are a great place for scientists to get ursine DNA, according to a new study.
When salmon are plentiful, bears rarely eat the entire fish. In some cases, they only eat the brain, and weve found that swabbing along the edges of the braincase gives us the best results for extracting DNA, Rachel Wheat, first author on the new study, said in a statement. We also had success with swabbing inside distinct bite holes, and in the muscle tissue where the bears have stripped the skin off the salmon.
WHY I GOT MY DNA TESTED
The researchers focused on two types of salmon, chum and sockeye, in two watersheds in southeast Alaska, and got their data from 156 fish bodies. As a comparison, they also took swabs from bear scats. It turns out that they were more likely to get genetic information from the fish carcasses than the bear feces: more than 50 percent of the fish provided bear DNA, compared to just 35 percent from the bear scat. The saliva method was also much cheaper, with the fishs braincase providing better info than bite holes.
The technique is a promising method towards monitoring animals like bears, according to the study, which was published this month in the journal PLOS ONE.
This advance will help allow us to more effectively and more economically study one of the largest bears on the planet, Wheat said in the statement.
Follow Rob Verger on Twitter: @robverger
Police say a weekend shooting at a Sweet 16 party in Connecticut left four people wounded and one man seriously injured.
Officers arrived at a club in Bridgeport around 10:45 p.m. Saturday for a report of a disturbance.
Police say a group of unwanted guests had crashed the party. A fight broke out inside the club and then moved to the parking lot outside. Police say five people were shot by at least two shooters.
Four people were taken to a hospital with injuries not considered life-threatening. A man was hospitalized with serious injuries but is expected to survive. No one was immediately identified.
Police say at least two suspects were behind the shooting. The incident is under investigation.
A New York man imprisoned for 20 years for a killing he said he didn't commit has gotten the case dismissed, though he didn't get the vindication he wanted.
Bronx prosecutors said Monday they're dismissing the charges against Richard Rosario. He was freed in March after prosecutors agreed his ex-lawyers hadn't done enough to find 13 alibi witnesses.
In June, prosecutors said they would drop the 1996 case.
Rosario then made an unusual request to keep it open. He wanted a ruling saying that newfound evidence favored his claim of innocence, not just that his ex-lawyers made mistakes. The change would allow for seeking a particular form of wrongful-conviction compensation.
A judge said no last week.
Lawyer Chip Loewenson says Rosario is glad to be free of the case.
Police say a University of Alabama student accused of raping a teenage girl in a dorm room has been arrested.
Tuscaloosa County Metro Homicide Unit Capt. Gary Hood tells Al.com on Sunday that 19-year-old Joseph Tyler Pitts is charged with first-degree rape. Hood says an 18-year-old female, also a student at the college, told police she was drinking with Pitts and lost consciousness.
Hood says the teen said she was awakened by two friends, who saw Pitts on top of her and having sexual intercourse with her. The teen told Tuscaloosa investigators about the incident at DCH Regional Medical Center early Saturday.
Pitts is being held at the Tuscaloosa County Jail on a $30,000 bond. It's not clear if Pitts has an attorney.
The online vitriol directed at President-elect Donald Trump is getting worse, and critics say social media companies should do more to rein it in.
Since Trump's stunning Election Day victory last week, social media hashtags like #AssassinateTrump and #Killtrump have proliferated. Over the weekend, a protester near Trump Tower held aloft a sign calling for future first lady Melania Trump to be violated, echoing a trending hashtag #RapeMelania.
This is another example of social media platforms being used to radicalize people, said Eric Feinberg, of GIPEC, a software company that monitors illegal activity and terror-related social media accounts told FoxNews.com. Terror groups such as ISIS have long utilized this strategy to recruit and radicalize.
STUDENTS ACROSS US STAGE MASS PROTESTS
Now anti-Trump anti-government groups are using the same tactic to recruit, radicalize and compensate to cause civil disobedience and unrest in our cities while overburdening the workload of law enforcement in these cities," he added.
Within the social media realmparticularly on Twitterdozens of calls to kill Trump have been circulating, with some even calling for both Trump and Vice President-elect Mike Pence to be assassinated by their Jan. 20 inauguration.
Those who support Trump took to Twitter as well, mostly to voice anger over the social media platform's perceived hypocrisy. They noted hashtag #HillaryForPrison was blocked during the campaign, while #AssassinateTrump was not.
So its ok to trend #AssassinateTrump, but anti-Hillary hashtags were removed immediately, reads one tweet from @TrumpTrain09.
#AssassinateTrump was trending yesterday and now "Rape Melania" is trending today. Liberalism is a mental disorder and needs to be destroyed pic.twitter.com/1RqpBWxKy6 Deplorable Vet (@KGBVeteran) November 13, 2016
Twitter censors pro-Trump trends but allows garbage like "Rape Melania," #AssassinateTrump, #NotMyPresident, etc., to trend, reads another tweet from @DukeNukemSez.
Some users said Twitter could bear the blame if something bad occurs.
If something ever happens to @realDonaldTrump b/c of the stupid trend #AssassinateTrump, @twitter employees shd be charged as an accessory, reads one tweet from @Ima_Deplorable.
Social media is not the only place where the violent rhetoric has surfaced since Election Day.
In Oakland, Calif., last week, demonstrators rioted and graffiti saying Kill Trump was found spray painted in several places according to the New York Post.
Sources told the newspaper that the Secret Service intends to investigate all social media postings deemed to contain credible threats while adding that there is a difference between one saying that they intend to kill the president and someone suggesting that someone else should. Generally, indirect threats are not prosecuted.
A California history teacher was placed on leave Thursday after a complaint over a lesson where he compared President-elect Donald Trump to Adolf Hitler.
The Monterrey Herald reported that Frank Navarro was asked to leave in the middle of the day after a parent sent an email to Mountain View High School expressing concerns over the comparison. The areas Superintendent Jeff Harding confirmed the incident, but refused to detail the complaint.
Navarro has taught at Mountain View for 40 years. Hes an expert on the Holocaust. He told the paper that school officials didnt disclose what the parents complaint was. They also declined to review the lesson plan.
This feels like were trying to squash free speech, he said. Everything I talk about is factually based. They can go and check it out. Its not propaganda or bias if its based on hard facts.
The complaint comes in the midst of the uproar over Trumps Election Day victory over Hillary Clinton. The Democratic nominee won the states 55 electoral votes.
Navarro had received complaints in the past about his lessons being one-sided, but insists that his plan was based on facts and not opinion.
I said (to school officials), Im not pulling these facts out of my hat. Its based on experience and work and if Im wrong, show we where Im wrong. And there was silence, he said.
School officials originally told Navarro to return Wednesday, but Harding said he could return as early as Monday. A petition on Change.org to bring Navarro back garnered more than 1,000 signatures.
Navarros controversy came on the same day as Milpitas High School Principal Phil Morales was placed on administrative leave for using profanity about Trump during a student walkout.
Mountain View High School is about 16 miles from Milpitas High School.
Click for more from the Monterrey Herald.
The Pentagon is denying full enlistment bonuses to several interpreters who deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan a decade ago with the California National Guard, saying the interpreters were unfit for the military service they had already performed, the Los Angeles Times reported.
The enlistment bonuses up to $20,000 each were promised to dozens of Arabic, Dari and Pashto speakers. The Times reported Saturday that the Pentagon even relaxed age and health standards in order to attract more candidates starting in 2006. But those lowered standards later gave the military cause to deny the bonus, according to interpreters interviewed by the newspaper.
SECRETARY OF DEFENSE: DON'T SEEK REPAYMENT OF BONUSES
As far as I know, its only the interpreters who didnt get paid, Arabic interpreter Khatchig Khatchadourian said. They think were stupid because we are immigrants.
Khatchadourian said the military still owed him half of his promised $20,000 bonus.
CALIF. NATIONAL GUARD REPORTEDLY CAN'T FIND 4,000 SOLDIERS WHO RECEIVED IMPROPER MILITARY BONUSES
Some of the 44 interpreters affected said they were unemployed, with others claiming they suffered from post-traumatic stress or other ailments sustained during their deployments to war zones.
But a California National Guard spokesperson told the Times the bonus dispute revolved around missing paperwork.
The complexity arose in cases where neither the soldier nor the Guard could locate a copy of any agreement, although work was done by the soldier that likely would have given rise to a bonus payment, Col. Peter Cross wrote in an email.
The interpreter issue came on the heels of a larger scandal the Times broke last month regarding the Pentagon demanding repayment of enlistment bonuses from 10,000 California National Guard soldiers. Defense Secretary Ash Carter has since suspended the repayment program and set up an appeals process.
The parent company of Chili's said it wants to make things right after a veteran had his free meal taken away on Veteran's Day.
Ernest Walker posted a video to Facebook on Friday of a manager taking away his meal at a Chili's in the Dallas suburb of Cedar Hill. The Army vet writes that the meal was taken away after another diner raised questions about the uniform Walker was wearing. Walker said the manager took his meal even after he showed him his military ID and discharge papers.
Walker said he bought the fatigues he was wearing after he was discharged as a tribute to his service.
Brinker International, which owns Chili's, told KDFW-TV that it's taking the matter "very seriously."
Walker's lawyer was set to meet with the company Monday.
The future of deradicalization programs in the U.S. is at a pivotal juncture this week, when a federal judge in Minnesota will decide the appropriate sentence for nine convicted Islamic State sympathizers.
U.S. District Judge Michael Davis, a senior federal judge in Minneapolis, took an unprecedented step before the sentencings. He asked a deradicalization expert from Germany to come to the U.S., interview six of the nine defendants, all Somali-Americans in their 20s, and determine whether they would be candidates for a reduced sentence.
If Judge Davis decides to send any of the defendants into a deradicalization program instead of prison, it could set the model for other federal officials grappling with how the legal system should treat young people with a desire to join Islamic State. It also would raise uncertainties about the logistics of such a program, including who would fund it or be responsible for any failures.
Since early 2014, more than 100 Americans have been arrested on charges related to Islamic State. These defendants are mostly U.S. citizens in their early 20s and often convicted of crimes that carry a maximum of decades in prison, meaning they will be released back to society as middle-aged adults.
Law-enforcement officials are recognizing that the previous solution of a lengthy prison sentence isnt right for everyone. Given their youth, many Islamic State sympathizers still have time for rehabilitation, defense lawyers say, but federal prisons lack counseling geared specifically at terrorism disengagement.
The nine men facing sentencing next week were accused of supporting Islamic State to varying degrees. Many of them bought plane tickets to Turkey with Syria as the ultimate destination, and were arrested and detained by law enforcement before they could board planes. Some were convicted by a jury, while others pleaded guilty and testified against their friends at trial in hopes of a more lenient sentence.
Since there is no precedent for this, Judge Davis would have wide latitude to set the parameters of any deradicalization program. He also could give guideline prison sentences to every defendant. Any sentence he gives could be overturned by an appeals court.
Click for more from The Wall Street Journal.
A military officer testified Monday that he saw another soldier shot in the head during the 2009 search for U.S. Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, who's accused of endangering his comrades when he walked off his post in Afghanistan.
The testimony came at a pretrial hearing at which an Army judge also agreed to delay Bergdahl's trial by several months until May 15, 2017.
Prosecutors are arguing that the judge should allow evidence of two wounded soldiers' injuries into the case to help them show that Bergdahl's disappearance effectively put other military members in harm's way.
Bergdahl is charged with desertion and misbehavior before the enemy, the latter of which carries a maximum penalty of life in prison.
U.S. Air Force Maj. John Marx testified about a firefight on July 8, 2009, when he and several other U.S. military members were seeking information on Bergdahl's whereabouts, with members of the Afghan National Army. They were attacked after setting up a checkpoint near a town in Afghanistan.
One of the two wounded soldiers cited by prosecutors is U.S. Army National Guard Sgt. First Class Mark Allen. Prosecutors said he was shot in the head and suffered a traumatic brain injury that has left him in a wheel chair. Another soldier had hand injuries and required surgery because of a rocket-propelled grenade.
Marx, who said the mission's sole purpose was to search for Bergdahl, testified that he was sitting next to Allen as bullets flew overhead.
"I looked at him, then I see a trickle of blood coming down his head," Marx testified. Asked where Allen was wounded, Marx pointed at his temples and said: "Right through his head."
Marx testified that he later carried Allen to the medevac helicopter, describing it as "probably one of the toughest things I've ever done in my life."
Bergdahl, dressed in a white shirt and blue pants, appeared stoic as he listened to Monday's testimony.
Prosecutors have written in a motion that the injuries will help them show that Bergdahl endangered his comrades, one of the elements of the misbehavior before the enemy charge. They asked the judge to allow them to use the evidence in their case.
Defense attorneys have argued in motions that Bergdahl was not responsible for the men's injuries, writing: "Allen's injuries were directly caused by the Taliban, not by SGT Bergdahl."
Further testimony and arguments are expected Monday afternoon.
Before the testimony on the soldiers' injuries, Army Col. Jeffery Nance decided to push the trial back to May after prosecutors requested a delay. They cited the pace at which they're able to get approval to give the defense classified evidence.
Defense attorneys also informed the judge that they were still waiting on software, computers and security equipment that would allow them to review some of the sensitive material.
Nance expressed frustration and told prosecutors that he would call military officials as witnesses at a pretrial hearing in December if some of the issues with classified information aren't resolved.
"Here's my problem folks ... We will nickel and dime this until we're not trying this case until 2020," he said.
Bergdahl, who's from Hailey, Idaho, walked off his post in Afghanistan in 2009 and was held captive by the Taliban and its allies for five years. The Obama administration's decision to swap prisoners for his return was heavily criticized by some Republicans.
The Latest on sentencings in Minnesota for men convicted of plotting to join the Islamic State group (all times local):
3:10 p.m.
A federal judge has sentenced a Minnesota man who was part of a conspiracy to join the Islamic State group in Syria to 10 years in prison.
Zacaria Abdurahman (ab-dur-ah-mahn) drew the harshest sentence of the three defendants who appeared before U.S. District Judge Michael Davis in Minneapolis on Monday. While Abdurahman pleaded guilty, he did not cooperate with the government against the other members of what Davis called a "terrorist cell."
Asked why he chose not to cooperate, Abdurahman said he wasn't willing to testify against his former friends. He said he's a man of principal.
Prosecutors had sought a 15-year sentence. Davis told the defendant he was giving him less partly because his parents have become active in the campaign against terrorist recruiting in Minnesota's large Somali community.
___
1:10 p.m.
A Minnesota man who was part of a conspiracy to join the Islamic State group in Syria has been sentenced to 2 years in prison.
Abdirizak Warsame was the second man in the conspiracy to be sentenced by a federal judge in Minneapolis, and got a tougher sentence than the first who was released from jail with time served.
Warsame told District Judge Michael Davis that he was manipulated. Davis told Warsame he didn't buy his claims that he was no longer radical, and felt his cooperation with authorities was a matter of convenience.
Warsame had sought 18 months, while prosecutors asked for 4 years.
Seven other men awaiting sentencing for the conspiracy that prosecutors said began in spring of 2014.
___
11:30 a.m.
A Minnesota man who admitted plotting to join the Islamic State group in Syria has been sentenced to time served by a judge who said he hopes to see the man rehabilitated.
Abdullahi Mohamed Yusuf is the first of nine men being sentenced in Minneapolis this week in the plot. The 20-year-old pleaded guilty more than a year ago of conspiring to provide material support to the Islamic State group, and testified against some of the others.
U.S. District Judge Michael Davis sentenced Yusuf to the 21 months he's already served in jail, plus 20 years of supervised release. Davis said it didn't make sense to send Yusuf to prison because the government would miss a chance to help him.
Yusuf promised the judge he wouldn't let him down.
Prosecutors had asked for 42 months, but U.S. Attorney Andy Luger praised Yusuf for his cooperation and said he accepted the sentence.
___
10 a.m.:
A federal judge in Minnesota this week will sentence nine men who were convicted of plotting to join the Islamic State group in Syria.
The men are to be sentenced in groups of three Monday through Wednesday. Prosecutors are seeking just a few years for defendants who cooperated with them and as many as 40 years for those who didn't.
U.S. District Judge Michael Davis sought evaluations on the men to determine how likely they were to pursue terroristic activities in the future.
Minnesota has the nation's largest population of Somali immigrants and has struggled in recent years to stop recruiting of its young men by terror groups aboard. The FBI has said about a dozen people have left Minnesota to join militant groups in Syria in recent years.
A man who fatally shot a rape suspect he was trying to turn in to police was found guilty of manslaughter on Monday.
David Carlson claimed he fired his gun in self-defense in October 2013 as he held Norris Acosta-Sanchez at gunpoint so a neighbor could call police. Acosta-Sanchez had been charged in Rockland County with statutory rape of a teenage girl and had been staying at a summer cabin by Carlson's home near the Pennsylvania border.
Carlson, 46, was found guilty of first-degree manslaughter by a jury in neighboring Orange County after more than seven days of deliberations. He faces a maximum of 25years in prison when he is sentenced in January.
While Carlson's supporters say he's more a victim than a vigilante, prosecutors said he was the aggressor.
"Justice was done," Acosta-Sanchez's relative Charles Nieves told the Middletown Times Herald-Record after the verdict.
Carlson had been trying to help police catch Acosta-Sanchez in the days leading up the shooting. Acosta-Sanchez had fled police after they let him go back to the cabin he was staying in to get his wallet.
Defense lawyers said Acosta-Sanchez showed up at Carlson's home before the shooting. They said Carlson came out with his shotgun, and the two men began walking to a neighbor's house so Carlson could call police.
Carlson was remanded to county jail on bail of $500,000 bond or $250,000 cash.
A Pittsburgh woman has been charged with endangering her four children after police say they found them alone in an apartment with no beds, no food and one working light.
Court records show 34-year-old Takoya Parker was charged after the children were found Saturday, though it's unclear if she's in custody and no defense attorney is listed.
Police said they found the children ages 10, 6, 5 and 3 after being asked to check on their welfare. They say the apartment was in disarray and the children said they hadn't eaten and didn't have a phone number to contact their mother.
When police contacted Parker at work, she allegedly told officers she could leave and to "just take them." Police and child welfare caseworkers have placed the children in a neighbor's care.
A Pennsylvania painter injured when he fell into the 500,000-gallon tank of a municipal water tower has been rescued by crews and will be taken to a hospital.
Victim rescued from O'Hara Twp water tower! He was lowered 100 ft on a board down middle column to safety, conscious when he came out. #WPXI pic.twitter.com/geAJoifuDr Aaron Martin (@WPXIAaronMartin) November 14, 2016
Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration officials were investigating the accident Monday in O'Hara Township, near Pittsburgh.
Township police Superintendent James Farringer says the tank had been drained for painting. The worker was hurt when scaffolding collapsed about 12:30 p.m. inside the tank atop the tower, about 200 feet high.
The name of the worker and the contractor he works for haven't been released, but they were hired by the Fox Chapel Water Authority.
Donald Kendrick, an operations supervisor with the authority, says the man was complaining of a possible broken arm and a back injury.
He was rescued shortly before 3 p.m.
Police say they've arrested a New Jersey resident who's accused of pushing a man onto Manhattan subway tracks, where he was injured by a train.
The New York Police Department says three men were "highly intoxicated" when a member of the group was pushed during an argument Sunday morning.
Police said Monday that Aaron Clary of Newark turned himself in and has been arrested on charges of attempted manslaughter and assault. There was no immediate information on an attorney who could comment on his behalf.
Mike Allison suffered head and foot injuries when he was pinned under the train at West 18th Street in Chelsea.
The president of the university founded by Thomas Jefferson is being asked to stop quoting Thomas Jefferson.
A Friday letter signed by 469 students and professors objected to University of Virginia President Teresa Sullivan quoting the third U.S. president and Declaration of Independence author in a campus email because Jefferson owned slaves, The Cavalier Daily reported.
I think that Jefferson is often celebrated for his accomplishments with little or no acknowledgement of the atrocities he committed against hundreds of human beings, said Asst. Psychology Prof. Noelle Hurd, who drafted the letter.
MIDTERM OPTIONAL FOR STUDENTS DISTRAUGHT OVER TRUMP WIN
Though Jefferson penned the line all men are created equal, Hurd said Jeffersons words communicated to me a message of exclusion.
The trouble started for Sullivan due to a Nov. 9 email she sent to try to urge unity following the presidential election.
NYU BRINGS BACK PROFESSOR WHO BLASTED PC CULTURE, GIVES HIM A RAISE
Thomas Jefferson wrote to a friend that University of Virginia students are not of ordinary significance only: they are exactly the persons who are to succeed to the government of our country, and to rule its future enmities, its friendships and fortunes, Sullivan wrote. I encourage todays U. Va students to embrace that responsibility.
The student-professor response acknowledged that Jefferson's legacy had inspired some students and faculty to come to the University, however, "others of us came here in spite of it."
Politics Prof. Lawrie Balfour, who signed the letter, said Jeffersons words have often troubled her during her 15-year tenure at the University.
Again and again, I have found that at moments when the community needs reassurance and Jefferson appears, it undoes I think the really important work the administrators and others are trying to do, Balfour said.
The Cavalier Daily could not immediately reach Sullivan for comment.
Jefferson, who also served as a U.S. vice president and secretary of state, founded the University of Virginia in 1819 and was involved with the University until his death in 1826.
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A social worker and supervisor have been charged with manslaughter and child abuse in the death of a 3-year-old Detroit boy.
Child Protective Services employees 24-year-old Elaina Brown and 47-year-old Kelly Williams have been charged with involuntary manslaughter, second-degree child abuse and neglect related to the death of Aaron Minor.
Prosecutors announced the charges Monday. A state spokesman says Brown and Williams have been suspended with pay.
Deanna Minor, Aaron's mother, was charged with murder in August, two months after Aaron's decomposing body was found in their apartment while she was in a hospital psychiatric unit.
Prosecutors allege Brown and Williams, the supervisor, didn't provide a safety plan or ask police for a safety check, and failed to file a juvenile court petition.
The Associated Press is reaching out to attorneys representing Brown and Williams.
A Texas woman was charged with theft and child endangerment after police found exotic animals living in the same house as her and her 14-year-old daughter.
Click 2 Houston reported that Trisha Meyer was arrested Monday after a months-long investigation into her Houston home found that several wild animals live in the home. Houston police said three tigers, a skunk, a fox as well as several monkeys were found.
The investigation started on Sept. 26 after Meyer tried selling a kitten to a man in California for $3,000, but never gave him the kitten after receiving the cash, according to the station.
The Houston Chronicle reported that an officer with the Houston Police Major Offenders Animal Cruelty Squad showed up at Meyers house with a Texas Game Warden. The officials were greeted by the exotic animals.
Police said Meyer had permits for the tigers, but none the skunk or the fox. BARC Animal Shelter and Adoptions took the animals into protective custody. Meyer added that she only locks up the tigers when she leaves the house.
According to the Chronicle, a BARC spokeswoman said Meyer fled the Houston home to Las Vegas with all of her animals. She was finally found and arrested in Nye County, Nev. Her tigers were confiscated.
According to the station, Meyer was being held on $2,000 bail in the Nye County Jail
Click for more from Click 2 Houston.
Three Minnesota men convicted of plotting to join ISIS received prison sentences Monday ranging from 10 years in jail to time served.
U.S. District Judge Michael Davis gave the 10-year sentence to Zacharia Abdurahman, who pleaded guilty but did not cooperate with the government against the other members of what Davis called a "terrorist cell."
MINNESOTA JUDGE'S PLAN TO DE-RADICALIZE TERROR DEFENDANTS DUBIOUS, EXPERTS SAY
Prosecutors had sought 15 years in jail for Abdurahman, who said he wasn't willing to testify against his former friends.
Davis told Abdurahman he was giving him less partly because his parents have become active in the campaign against terrorist recruiting in Minnesota's large Somali community.
Earlier Monday, Abdullahi Mohamed Yusuf, 20, was sentenced to the 21 months he's already served in jail plus 20 years of supervised release. Abdirizak Warsame, 21, didn't fare as well, but his sentence of 2 years in prison was two years less than prosecutors sought.
The judge said it didn't make sense to jail Yusuf, who pleaded guilty to a terror charge and testified against several of the others.
"I think we'll miss the opportunity to help this young kid," Davis said. "I hope I'm not wrong."
"I will not let you down, your honor," Yusuf told the judge. Earlier, Yusuf said he was "not the same naive 17-year-old" who was drawn into the conspiracy, and said he now rejects ISIS.
"ISIL's ideology is flawed," Yusuf said, using another acronym for the terror group. "There is nothing Islamic about their so-called state."
Prosecutors had asked for 42 months, but U.S. Attorney Andy Luger praised Yusuf for cooperating with their case and told Davis he accepted the shorter sentence.
Davis was sterner with Warsame, who told the judge he had been manipulated. Davis said he didn't buy Warsame's claims that he's no longer a radical. "The problem I have with you is everything has seemed so smooth," the judge said. But he went on to tell Warsame he was getting lucky.
"For the next round of sentencings, it's going to be a whole different ballgame, so count your blessings," Davis said.
Davis will sentence all nine men in the conspiracy this week in separate hearings. The remaining six will be sentenced Tuesday and Wednesday.
The sentencings cap a long court case that shined a light on terrorism recruitment in Minnesota. The state, with the largest concentration of Somali immigrants in the U.S., has struggled with the issue in recent years. The FBI has said about a dozen people have left Minnesota to join militant groups in Syria in recent years. Before that, more than 22 men were recruited to al-Shabab in Somalia since 2007.
Prosecutors said the conspiracy of the nine began in spring 2014, when a group of friends began inspiring and recruiting each other to travel to Syria to join ISIS. Some succeeded in making the trip, but others didn't. Six of the nine pleaded guilty. Three went to trial and were convicted of conspiracy to commit murder outside the U.S., which carries a possible life sentence.
The sentences sought this week ranged from just a few years for defendants like Yusuf, who admitted wrongdoing and was cooperative, to 40 years in prison for Guled Ali Omar, who was described as a leader.
Davis, who has handled all of Minnesota's terror conspiracy cases, had several defendants evaluated by a German scholar on deradicalization and was taking those findings into consideration as he passed sentence.
Several community members wrote to the judge seeking leniency for some of the defendants, including Ilhan Omar, just elected in Minnesota last week as the nation's first Somali-American state legislator. She wrote that imprisoning the men for decades could backfire and urged Davis instead to focus on rehabilitation.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
UC Berkeley has barred a once-respected Middle Eastern Studies scholar and architecture professor from teaching after a five-month-long investigation found that he sexually harassed a student, the San Francisco Chronicle reported Sunday.
From 2012 to 2014, 61-year-old Nezar AlSayyad allegedly acted inappropriately toward a student under his guidance, putting his hand on her upper thigh while driving home after getting drinks, even going so far as to invite her on a trip to Las Vegas as close friends. The Chronicle obtained a 52-page report detailing the accusations.
DARTMOUTH PROFESSOR GETS 5 1/2 YEARS FOR CHILD PORN
The student, 34-year-old Eva Hagberg Fisher, said she wanted to step forward because, If my speaking up can shine a light on this person and maybe he cant do it to someone else thats my goal.
This behavior from a male professor towards a female student in the close confines of a car demonstrated physical conduct of a sexual nature as well as the opportunity for Ms. Fisher to provide sexual favors or respond favorably to his subtle sexual advance, said Eve Fichtner, an independent investigator hired by school.
NYU BRINGS BACK PROFESSOR WHO BLASTED PC CULTURE, GIVES HIM A RAISE
I have absolutely done nothing wrong, AlSayyad said. I actually feel terribly victimized.
I almost left school, and had years of self doubt, Hagberg Fisher added. And when I trace it back, it all goes to him.
This was not the only accusation leveled at AlSayyad. Another woman claimed he took advantage of her through sex while she was a student 20 years ago. A third accused him of nonsexual misconduct this past spring. An investigation is pending, and he has denied all allegations.
University officials blocked the professor from teaching this coming spring, the Chronicle reported. He reportedly makes a salary of $210,000 and has received a slew of honors since he joined the university in 1985, but the newspaper suggested he may resign soon.
AlSayyad, however, said hed heard nothing indicating that the school has tried to stop him from teaching. If true, I will not accept it, as it presumes I did something wrong, when I did not.
President-elect Donald Trump and his future Chinese counterpart had a cordial conversation Sunday, but it did little to reverse growing tension built on Trump's campaign vow to revisit trade policies that he said leave America at an unfair disadvantage.
In what analysts described as an early warning shot, Chinese state media suggested Beijing could slash imports of American goods -- including iPhones -- if the U.S. imposed steeper tariffs. "Large orders for Boeing planes would switch to Europe, U.S. auto sales in China would face setbacks, Apple phones would essentially be crowded out, and U.S. soybeans and corn would be eradicated from China," the Global Times wrote in an editorial.
WHO WILL TEST PRESIDENT-ELECT TRUMP FIRST ON WORLD STAGE?
Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated Trump on his election and said cooperation was the "only correct choice" for China and the U.S., the world's two biggest economies.
"At present, there is an important opportunity and huge potential in China-U.S. cooperation," Xi told Trump, according to the reports.
IRAN AND CHINA SIGN MILITARY COOPERATION AGREEMENT
Trump's office said in a statement early Monday that Trump thanked Xi for his well wishes on his election.
"During the call, the leaders established a clear sense of mutual respect for one another and President-elect Trump stated that he believes the two leaders will have one of the strongest relationships for both countries moving forward," the statement said.
During the election campaign, Trump accused China of unfair trade practices and currency manipulation and threatened to slap a 45 percent import tariff on Chinese products. He said China's building of man-made islands in disputed waters in the South China Sea was a sign of its disrespect for America, and vowed to bulk up the U.S. military.
"Trump, coming from a business background, is very astute. We do not believe he will treat China-U.S. trade so childishly," the Global Times editorial continued.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said the two sides agreed to maintain close contact, build good relations and work toward a meeting between Xi and Trump "as soon as possible."
"What I want to point out is that China always maintains close communication with the U.S. side, including Mr. Trump's team, and we will carry on doing that," Geng said at a news conference.
Xi and President Obama are scheduled to meet at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Peru next week.
Beijing's rivalry with Washington largely boils down to economics, especially China's $334 billion trade surplus with the U.S. and American accusations of unfair subsidies for exporters and the condoning of intellectual property theft.
The sides are also opposed over security in east Asia, particularly China's assertion of its territorial claims in the South China Sea. Beijing has closely aligned its foreign policy with Russia, putting it at odds with the U.S. over issues including the civil war in Syria and the deployment of U.S. anti-missile defenses in South Korea.
Aside from his criticisms of Beijing, Trump has touted his business dealings with Chinese companies, although he is not known at present to have any major investments in the country.
Trump's embrace of a more isolationist foreign policy could also benefit China by weakening U.S. support for longtime Asian allies such as South Korea, Taiwan and Japan, according to analysts.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Nearly 80 letters written by Anne Franks father, shining a light on his tough battle to preserve her legacy after the Holocaust, are currently up for sale.
The messages from Otto Frank also described in detail his struggle to promote Israels standing in the world, and his reaction after President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. The asking price for the collection: $35,000.
HANDWRITTEN LETTER FROM ABRAHAM LINCOLN TO BE SOLD
As a teenager, Anne Frank hid with her family in an Amsterdam apartment to stay away from the Nazis during World War II, all while writing in her diary. She was arrested in 1944 and died in a concentration camp the next year. Her father survived the Holocaust, and died in 1980.
One of Otto Franks top priorities: keeping the Anne Frank Foundation fully funded so that future generations could continue to learn her story. I cannot continue to carry the burden principally alone and we have to find a way to be able to go on. I never want to accost Jewish people for this purpose, as I think they should give as much as possible for Israel, therefore I have to choose other sources, he wrote.
NEW VR FILM WILL TAKE VIEWERS INSIDE ANNE FRANK'S HIDING PLACE
Anti-Semitism and Israels standing in the world clearly were also very important to him. The Arabs learned from Hitler that repeating lies is rewarding. People believe them at last! And the countries who know the truth are too cowardly to repulse the lies with the exception of Israel itself.
Otto Frank fought hate and detested war, keeping the message he felt his daughter represented. She was constantly on his mind, evident in all of his letters.
It is necessary to spread Annes message for peace and understanding and to teach the younger generation whereto prejudice and discrimination are leading.
He also apparently considered Kennedy a hero. After the president was shot and killed in 1963, Frank responded, All of us are terrified, it is a detesting crime. We looked up to Kennedy, we admired him, his ideals, his humanity.
The Raab Collection, which announced the sale, has managed political artifacts, dispatches and documents from titans of history including Abraham Lincoln, Winston Churchill and Napoleon.
Donald Trump divided Europe last night as France joined Britain in snubbing emergency EU talks on the blocs approach to him.
French foreign minister Jean-Marc Ayrault followed Boris Johnson by ignoring the special summit in Brussels on the U.S. President-elect.
OPINION: TRUMP'S INCREDIBLE VICTORY IS A SECOND BREXIT (ONLY BETTER)
Hungarys foreign minister also boycotted the talks, saying the reaction of some in the EU was bordering on hysterical.
Foreign Secretary Johnsons aides said he saw no point in attending the talks planned as a precursor to the regular EU Foreign Affairs Council today.
A Foreign Office spokesman said he would not go to the meeting but would attend a regular Foreign Affairs Council meeting.
A senior UK official will be sent in his place, reports the BBC.
PM SAYS UK WILL CHAMPION FREE TRADE IN CHANGING WORLD
A Foreign Office spokesman told the broadcaster: The Foreign Secretary will not attend the meeting convened for Sunday. There is a regular Foreign Affairs Council meeting on Monday where a range of issues can be discussed in the normal way.
We do not see the need for an additional meeting on Sunday because the U.S. election timetable is long established. An act of democracy has taken place, there is a transition period and we will work with the current and future administrations to ensure the best outcomes for Britain.
On Friday the Foreign Secretary, who previously said the brash billionaire is clearly out of his mind, said it is time to snap out of the doom and gloom surrounding his election.
BoJo, who has also said Trump's call for a ban on Muslims entering the U.S. showed his "stupefying ignorance", told reporters in Serbia that "people should focus on the opportunities... and not the problems."
After speaking to Vice President-elect Mike Pence, Boris said: "I would respectfully say to my beloved European friends and colleagues that it's time that we snapped out of the general doom and gloom about the result of this election and collective 'whinge-o-rama' that seems to be going on in some places.
Boris remarks are in stark contrast to those of EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker.
He said Mr Trump's election risked upsetting EU ties with the U.S. "fundamentally and structurally."
Juncker told the BBC: "We will need to teach the president-elect what Europe is and how it works", adding that two years would be wasted while Mr Trump "tours a world he doesn't know."
Prime Minister Theresa May, who spoke to Mr Trump, has also had to skirt around her previous description of Mr Trump's Muslim ban idea as "divisive, unhelpful and wrong."
Mrs May has faced criticism from opposition politicians, who are mostly horrified at Mr Trump's election, for not following the lead of Angela Merkel.
This story first appeared in The Sun.
A young British-Pakistani woman reportedly was raped by her husband and left fearing for her and her childrens lives after a Sharia court forced to her reveal her address and to try and get back with him.
"Lubna," which is not her real name, had already obtained a legal divorce through the British courts from her violent husband, but after her mother was pressured by the Muslim community in which they lived in London, she was forced to seek a Sharia divorce as well.
First the clerics tried to persuade her to attempt a reconciliation with her abusive husband. Then, after they disclosed her address, he threatened to kill her, kidnapped her children, and subjected her to an horrific rape that left her needing an abortion, reports MailOnline.
EYE FOR AN EYE? IRANIAN THUG BLINDED FOR THROWING ACID IN 4-YEAR-OLD GIRL'S FACE
Lubna, who was brought up in the north of England in a middle-class family, reportedly was sexually and physically abused by her husband who she joined with under an arranged marriage.
But after he left her to pursue a new life in America with a new woman, Lubna decided she would file for divorce through the British legal system.
WOMEN UNITE TO TAKE 'HONOR' OUT OF KILLING IN PAKISTAN
She was given a restraining order to protect her from her furious husband who had returned to the UK to fight the split and was granted custody of their children.
Her nightmare began however when her estranged husband told a prayer meeting at her local east London mosque that she was a loose women being pimped out by her widowed mother.
Although at least one imam knew the horrific background to her marriage, a group from the mosque visited her family to persuade her to return. When that failed, the imam, an old family friend, put more pressure on Lubna to go to the Sharia court near Londons Regents Park.
To avoid shaming her devout Muslim mother Lubna agreed but the judges didnt care about the plight shed suffered at her violent exs hands and repeatedly told the young woman and her mother to be silent.
Speaking to the One Law for All campaign which is working to ban Sharia courts to improve Muslim womens rights, Lubna said: The court was incredibly difficult. My mother and I were repeatedly told to be silent. None of the information from the civil proceedings, including non-molestation orders, was admissible in the Sharia court.
When my ex-husband said he wanted a reconciliation, the judges said I should comply.
I tried to tell them about the violence and abuse I had suffered throughout the marriage, but was advised to be quiet. My mother was also silenced.
She faced intrusive questioning about the last time she had sex with her husband crucial, the judges told her, to determine exactly when their relationship had ended. She was also forced to disclose her address.
Astonishingly however when Lubnas mum sought advice from Islamic scholars in Pakistan and India they told her a civil divorce was sufficient to end the marriage.
As a result they never finished the Sharia divorce and the young Muslim went on to try and rebuild her life.
For more than 30 years Sharia courts enforcing Islamic law have been operating quietly across Britain. But two official inquiries have put them in the spotlight amid accusations that they discriminate against women.
Very little is known about them, even their number. One study by the University of Reading puts it at 30, while the British think tank Civitas estimates there could be as many as 85.
Sharia courts or councils, as they prefer to be called, mainly pronounce on Islamic divorces, which today make up 90 percent of the cases they handle.
They range from groups of Muslim scholars attached to a mosque, to informal organizations or even a single imam.
But while they are aimed at helping resolve family and sometimes commercial conflicts within the Muslim community, some stand accused of undermining womens rights.
Campaigners cite instances where courts have refused to grant religious divorces to women who are victims of domestic abuse, and accuse them of legitimizing violence, including marital rape, as was the case with Lubna.
Click for more from The Sun.
A Pakistani officer says police have arrested 10 members of a criminal gang who flogged a transgender person and posted the incident on social media.
Iqbal Sindhu says Monday's arrests were made in the eastern Pakistani city of Sialkot after a video of the flogging was shared thousands of times on social media.
The gang's leader, identified as Jajja Butt, is seen in the video flogging the transgender man, who lay face down on a cot screaming in pain.
At one point, while another gang member continues the flogging, Butt places his foot on the victim's neck and twists his arms.
Transgender people in Pakistan are social outcasts often forced into begging, dancing and prostitution to earn money.
A Portuguese official says it's impossible to put a price on the booty of the Bom Jesus, a 16th century Portuguese ship carrying gold, silver and elephant tusks that was discovered in 2008 along the Namibian coastline.
Teresa Ribeiro, Portugal's secretary of state for foreign affairs, says the artifacts found in the remains of the shipwreck have a "unique historical value."
The Portuguese news agency Lusa quotes Ribeiro as saying during a trip to Namibia that the archaeological site is securely maintained in line with international standards. Ribeiro says she has told Namibian authorities that exhibitions from the shipwreck should be held in both Portugal and Namibia.
Lusa says Ribeiro was planning on Monday to visit the Namibian central bank, where a vault contains coins from the Bom Jesus.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and President-elect Donald Trump spoke over the phone Monday to discuss future efforts to improve the U.S.-Russian ties, the Kremlin and Trump's office said.
"President-elect Trump noted to President Putin that he is very much looking forward to having a strong and enduring relationship with Russia and the people of Russia," Trump's office said in a statement.
The Kremlin said that Putin congratulated Trump on his victory and expressed Russia's readiness to "establish a partner-like dialogue with the new administration on the basis of equality, mutual respect and non-interference in domestic relations."
TRUMP'S ELECTION BOOSTS KREMLIN HOPES FOR BETTER RELATIONS
Trump's office said that Putin called him to "offer his congratulations on winning a historic election."
"During the call, the two leaders discussed a range of issues including the threats and challenges facing the United States and Russia, strategic economic issues and the historical U.S.-Russia relationship that dates back over 200 years," it said.
In its readout of the phone call, the Kremlin added that both Putin and Trump agreed that the U.S.-Russian ties are in "extremely unsatisfactory" condition now.
"They spoke for active joint work to normalize ties and engage in constructive cooperation on a broad range of issues," it said, adding that Putin and Trump emphasized the need to develop trade and economic cooperation to give a strong basis to U.S.-Russia relations.
RUSSIA POISED TO UNLEASH NEW SYRIA STRIKES FROM THE SEA, US OFFICIALS SAY
Putin and Trump also agreed on the need to combine efforts in the fight against their No. 1 enemy "international terrorism and extremism" and discussed the settlement of the Syrian crisis in that context, according to the Kremlin.
It said that Putin and Trump agreed to continue phone contacts and to plan a personal meeting in the future.
Trump said during the presidential campaign that he wants to be friends with Russia and join forces in the fight against the Islamic State group, yet he outlined few specifics as to how he would go about it. President Barack Obama began his presidency with a goal to "reset" ties with Russia, but they eventually plunged to the lowest point since the Cold War over the conflicts in Ukraine and Syria.
Throughout the campaign, the Kremlin insisted that it had no favorites and rejected the claims of interference in the U.S. election. Russia's state-controlled media, however, made no secret of their sympathy for Trump.
A Russian fighter jet crashed in the Mediterranean Sea shortly after launching from its aircraft carrier near the coast of Syria Sunday, two U.S. officials told Fox News.
Three Russian MiG-29 fighter jets took off from their Soviet-era aircraft carrier, Admiral Kuznetsov, and flew in the direction of Syria. Once airborne, one of the Russian jets appeared to have mechanical difficulties and turned around in the direction of the aircraft carrier.
The Russian jet splashed down in the water while attempting to land. A Russian rescue helicopter picked up a parachute and the pilot, who'd bailed out safely, Russian defense officials said.
The MiG-29 was designed in the late-1970s to counter the U.S. Air Forces F-15 and F-16. It entered service in the early 1980s.
The news of the crash came a day after state media claimed Russia was preparing its Tu-95 and Tu-160 long-range bombers for imminent strike missions in Syria.
The Russian Tu-95 Bear and Tu-160 Blackjack, according to their NATO call signs, have been operating in Syria since 2015 and are based at Engels Air Force base in southern Russia near Kazakhstan. The Blackjack is a supersonic variable-sweep wing long range bomber and more advanced than its 1950s-era Bear counterpart, which is propeller driven.
Last week, Fox News was first to report Russia was close to launching a new round of airstrikes in Syria from the aircraft carrier in the Eastern Mediterranean and southern Russia using long range bombers.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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Disgraced runner Oscar Pistorius has been moved to a different prison because of his disabilities.
The Paralympian requested a transfer to a site that was better able to accommodate his specific needs.
Pistorius has been transferred from Kgosi Mampuru II prison in Pretoria to the nearby Atteridgeville Correctional Centre.
The jail has recently installed bath tubs during upgrades for disabled criminals.
Officials said the double-amputee had been held in a Kgosi Mampuru remand centre because it accommodated his disabilities.
Unlike the Kgosi Mampuru, the Atteridgeville prison has rehabilitation and development programmes for inmates.
The 29-year-old is serving a six-year prison term for murdering his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp at his home on Valentine's Day in 2013.
Click for more from Sky News.
Turkish state media and a Syrian activist group say Turkey's warplanes have struck Islamic State positions in and near the northern Syrian town of al-Bab.
Turkey's Anadolu news agency reported 15 airstrikes against IS in al-Bab on Monday, saying they destroyed two command centers, an arms depot and two buildings used as headquarters, as well as 10 defensive positions.
The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says the airstrikes and shelling killed three people and wounded 30 others.
Turkish troops crossed into northern Syria earlier this year, vowing to clear the border area of IS as well as U.S.-backed Syrian Kurdish forces, which Ankara views as an extension of the Kurdish insurgency in Turkey.
Ukraine's police chief, who was driving reforms through the country's notoriously corrupt police force, has resigned after a year in the job, complaining of government pressure.
Khatiya Dekanoidze, who also was a deputy interior minister, told a televised news conference Monday that her official powers were "not enough for dramatic changes." Dekanoidze complained of pressure by government officials and members of parliament who "interfered" in police work.
One of the pledges of the new Ukrainian government, which took over in February 2014 after pro-Russia President Viktor Yanukovych fled the country, was to combat rampant corruption in Ukraine's police.
The overhaul of the national police has so far been the new government's most visible reform with the entire Kiev traffic police corps disbanded and replaced by a new force last year.
Brightway Insurance Opens Offices In Arizona And Georgia Today
Brightway Agencies Offer More Choice And Expert Counsel
November 14, 2016 // Franchising.com // JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Brightway Insurance continues to grow as its second location in the Grand Canyon State is opening today. Veteran Insurance Agent, Shauna Summ, is the proud Owner of Brightway, The Shauna Summ Agency in Phoenix, Ariz. Brightway is the seventh largest privately held Personal Lines independent insurance agency in the country.
Also today, Mo Hassan is opening the doors to Brightway, The Hassan Agency in Kennesaw, Ga. Inspired by the successes his uncle, Hasan Mehedi, has experienced as a Brightway Agency Owner in Florida, Hassan decided that opening a Brightway Agency would be a great fit for him and the people in his community. Mehedis agency in West Palm Beach, Fla., is a top 25 Brightway agency in terms of annualized premium.
Were thrilled to have Mo Hassan and Shauna Summ as our newest Brightway Agency Owners, said Brightway President, Talman Howard. Shauna has a solid reputation for providing expert counsel to her customers, and Mo is a real go-getter who has a passion for running his own business and being an integral part of his community. A team of experts stand behind Shauna and Mo to provide support through customer service, carrier relationships, marketing, accounting and technology so they can focus on taking the time to get to know each of their customers and finding them the right insurance solutions.
Brightway, The Shauna Summ Agency is located at 21620 N 19th Ave., Suite A10 in Phoenix, Ariz. (near the West Deer Valley Road intersection). For more information, visit BrightwayShaunaSumm.com.
Brightway, The Hassan Agency is located at 2615 George Busbee Parkway Suite 10-D in Kennesaw, Ga. (across the street from the Town Center at Cobb). For more information, visit BrightwayMoHassan.com.
In addition to Brightways two newest agencies, Brightway, The Landers Agency celebrated with a ribbon-cutting event on Nov. 2. Agency Owner, Kandie Landers, opened the agency at 650 South Cherry Street, Suite 102 (at the corner of Cherry Street and Exposition Avenue) in Glendale, Colo., July 11. For more information, visit BrightwayLanders.com.
Brightway agencies offer customized Home, Condo, Renters, Auto, Flood, RV, Motorcycle, Boat, ATV, Umbrella, Business and Life insurance policies from twice as many insurance carriers as do other independent agencies. With more than twice as many insurance carriers to choose from, Brightway agencies outsell other independent insurance agencies two to one.
About Brightway Insurance
Brightway Insurance is a national property/casualty insurance retailer selling through a network of franchised independent agencies throughout the country. With more than $430 million in annualized premium written, the company is the nations seventh largest privately held Personal Lines independent insurance agency.
Brightway began franchising operations in 2008 and has since grown to 770 people in 12 states serving customers in all 50 states. In 2015, Forbes recognized the company as Americas No. 1 Franchise to Buy. Additionally, the company was named a top franchise three years in a row by Entrepreneur magazine and one of the fastest-growing private companies in America nine consecutive years by Inc. 5000. Learn more about Brightway at Brightway.com, and find us on Facebook and LinkedIn.
SOURCE Brightway Insurance
Contact:
Courtney Heidelberg
904-405-1883
courtney.heidelberg@brightway.com
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Fuddruckers And Regional Franchisee, Roth Foods Inc., To Debut New Pennsylvania Fast Casual Restaurant In Manheim On November 14
MANHEIM, Pa. - Nov. 11, 2016 // PRNewswire // - Texas-born heritage brand, Fuddruckers, will soon have a fourth home for the "World's Greatest Hamburgers" in Pennsylvania thanks to a partnership with regional franchisee, Roth Foods Inc. Proprietor Jeff Roth is putting the final touches on the new 4,500-square-foot fast casual restaurant in Manheim in preparation for the November 14 debut. Roth also owns and operates a Fuddruckers in Hershey, PA.
Located at 2001 Strickler Road, adjacent to the Hampton Inn & Suites Mount Joy/Lancaster West off Highway 283, the restaurant will feature seating for 130 guests and decor that references Fuddruckers' classic, Americana origins, including whimsical elements ranging from arcade games to roadhouse signage.
According to Peter Tropoli, Chief Operating Officer of Luby's, Inc., "We're incredibly grateful for the generous reception we've had in Manheim, as well as the support and local expertise of Roth Foods Inc. in making this pre-opening such a smooth process. We're excited to be expanding in Pennsylvania and eager to become part of this community, welcoming guests with a warm and engaging ambience and great food ideal for family gatherings, business lunches and date nights."
About Fuddruckers
Since 1980, Fuddruckers has been obsessed with making the world happier, one great hamburger at a time. Grilled-to-order burgers feature always fresh and never frozen, 100% USDA premium-cut beef with no fillers or additives. Delicious, sesame-topped buns are baked from scratch on-site throughout the day to achieve the perfect combination of crisp crust and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
And while burgers are the signature, the engaging menu offers variety for many tastes with an array of sandwiches, platters and salads. No matter what they choose, customers can customize their meal with a trip to the legendary Build Your Own produce bar, which features fantastic fixings like sun-ripened tomatoes, lettuce, sliced onions, dill pickles, pico de gallo and classic cheese sauce.
About Luby's, Inc.
Luby's, Inc. (NYSE: LUB) operates restaurants under the brands Luby's Cafeteria, Fuddruckers and Cheeseburger in Paradise and provides food service management through its Luby's Culinary Services division. The company-operated restaurants include 91 Luby's Cafeterias, 74 Fuddruckers restaurants, eight Cheeseburger in Paradise full service restaurants and bars and one Bob Luby's Seafood Grill. Its Luby's Cafeterias are located primarily in Texas. In addition to the company-operated Fuddruckers locations, Luby's is the franchisor for 112 Fuddruckers franchise locations across the United States (including Puerto Rico), Canada, Mexico, Panama, Italy, Colombia and the Dominican Republic. Luby's Culinary Services provides food service management to 23 sites consisting of healthcare, higher education and corporate dining locations.
SOURCE Fuddruckers
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Second Hyatt Place Hotel Set To Open In The United Kingdom
Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport will mark the second Hyatt Place hotel in London
[start[]CHICAGO Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a franchise agreement with M&L Hospitality for a Hyatt Place hotel in London, to be managed by Cycas Hospitality. Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport will mark the second Hyatt Place hotel and the fifth Hyatt-branded hotel in the United Kingdom.
The Hyatt Place brand is rooted in extensive consumer insights indicating that guests seek stylish, comfortable, seamless experiences that accommodate their lifestyles and familiar routines. To embody this, the brand offers casual hospitality and purposeful service in a smartly designed, high-tech and contemporary environment.
We are delighted to collaborate with M&L Hospitality to bring the second Hyatt Place hotel to the U.K., said Peter Norman, senior vice president, acquisitions and development Europe, Africa and Middle East (EAME) and Southwest Asia for Hyatt. The opening of this hotel will mark a significant milestone for Hyatt as the Hyatt Place brand continues to expand worldwide and offer more choices to our guests in key gateway cities.
Expected to open in early 2017 following an extensive renovation of the existing building, Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport will be located at the doorstep of Heathrow Airport, providing guests with a relaxing and uncomplicated place to pause before beginning the next leg of their journey.
M&L Hospitalitys collaboration with Hyatt continues to expand with the opening of Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport in the U.K., said Neil Maxwell, chief executive officer, M&L Hospitality. After extensive upgrades to the hotel, including a full refurbishment of all guest rooms and public areas, we believe the Hyatt Place brand is the right fit for the hotel and Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport will exceed guest expectations while visiting or passing through London.
Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport will offer:
350 spacious guestrooms, including a plush Hyatt Grand Bed, media and work center with a 42" flat-panel HDTV and comfortable Cozy Corner sofa-sleeper
Gallery Hosts unique to the Hyatt Place brand who are available 24/7
24/7 Gallery Market offering grab n go items, such as snacks and sandwiches
Coffee to Cocktails Bar featuring specialty coffees and premium beers, as well as wines and cocktails
Meetings Spaces offering seven flexible, high-tech meeting/function space that can accommodate 2-100 delegates
24-hour StayFit Gym featuring fully stocked exercise equipment
Odds & Ends program for forgotten items that guests can buy, borrow or enjoy for free
Free Wi-Fi and public computers with remote printing throughout the hotel
Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport will be managed by Cycas Hospitality. This is a trusted, global brand for Heathrow Airport and we know that guests will enjoy our plans for new, intuitive levels of service which will mark this hotel apart from its competitors on the strip, said John Wagner, director, Cycas Hospitality.
There are more than 260 Hyatt Place hotels spanning five continents, 16 countries and more than 150 cities. For more information, please visit www.hyattplace.com.
The term Hyatt is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates.
About Hyatt Place
Hyatt Place, a brand of Hyatt Hotels Corporation, combines style, innovation and 24/7 convenience to create a seamless stay with modern comforts. There are more than 260 Hyatt Place locations in the United States, Armenia, Brazil, Chile, China, Costa Rica, Honduras, India, Mexico, Morocco, Nicaragua, Panama, Puerto Rico, Thailand, The Netherlands, United Arab Emirates, and United Kingdom. Join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram, and tag photos with #HyattPlace and #WhySettle.
About M&L Hospitality
M&L Hospitality is a Singapore-based real estate investment trust with an international portfolio of best-in-class hotels. M&L Hospitality has experienced exponential growth since the trust acquired the Four Points by Sheraton in Sydney in 2009, which will be rebranded as Hyatt Regency Sydney on 1 December 2016. Its portfolio now contains 13 hotels in operation and a further 3 hotels under construction, due to open in 2017, with properties in Singapore, Australia, Belgium, the Netherlands, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. M&L Hospitalitys hotels are in prime, central locations in international gateway cities. They are operated by the most recognisable international brands, including Accor, Hilton, IHG, Rezidor, Starwood, Hyatt, Travelodge and Swissotel. M&L Hospitalitys hotels are modern, functional, and appeal to the corporate, leisure and MICE markets.
About Cycas Hospitality
Cycas Hospitality is a hotel management company specialising in extended-stay hotels in the UK and across Europe. It combines real world, first-hand experience of hotel management with expertise in real estate investment and development. For more information please visit http://www.cycashospitality.com
About Hyatt Hotels Corporation
Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 12 premier brands and 679 properties in 54 countries, as of September 30, 2016. The Company's purpose to care for people so they can be their best informs its business decisions and growth strategy and is intended to create value for shareholders, build relationships with guests and attract the best colleagues in the industry. The Company's subsidiaries develop, own, operate, manage, franchise, license or provide services to hotels, resorts, branded residences and vacation ownership properties, including under the Park Hyatt, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Regency, Hyatt, Andaz, Hyatt Centric, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, Hyatt Place, Hyatt House, Hyatt Ziva, Hyatt Zilara and Hyatt Residence Club brand names and have locations on six continents. For more information, please visit www.hyatt.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
Forward-Looking Statements in this press release, which are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Our actual results, performance or achievements may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as may, could, expect, intend, plan, seek, anticipate, believe, estimate, predict, potential, continue, likely, will, would and variations of these terms and similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by us and our management, are inherently uncertain. Factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from current expectations include, among others, the rate and pace of economic recovery following economic downturns; levels of spending in business and leisure segments as well as consumer confidence; declines in occupancy and average daily rate; the financial condition of, and our relationships with, third-party property owners, franchisees and hospitality venture partners; the possible inability of third-party owners, franchisees or development partners to access the capital necessary to fund current operations or implement our plans for growth; risks associated with potential acquisitions and dispositions and the introduction of new brand concepts; changes in the competitive environment in our industry, including as a result of industry consolidation, and the markets where we operate; general volatility of the capital markets and our ability to access such markets; and other risks discussed in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K, which filings are available from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These factors are not necessarily all of the important factors that could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by any of our forward-looking statements. We caution you not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are made only as of the date of this press release. We undertake no obligation to update publicly any of these forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, new information or future events, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable law. If we update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.
SOURCE Hyatt Place
Media Contact:
Allison Mack
Hyatt
+1 312 780 5933
allison.mack@hyatt.com
Simone Loretan
Hyatt Europe, Africa and Middle East and Southwest Asia
+41 44 279 1226
simone.loretan@hyatt.com
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MADISON Republicans will have their biggest majorities in the Wisconsin Senate and Assembly in decades when the legislative session begins in January.
Heres a look at what they likely will face:
How big are the Republican majorities?
Republicans emerged from Election Day with a 64-35 advantage in the Assembly and a 20-12 edge in the Senate. Senate Republicans could still gain one more member; the race between Republican Dan Kapanke and Senate Minority Leader Jennifer Shilling remains too close to call.
Senate Republicans unanimously chose Scott Fitzgerald, of Juneau, as majority leader on Thursday. Hes served in that capacity since the 2011-13 session. Robin Vos is expected to retain his position as Assembly speaker when Republicans in that chamber meet to make their leadership choices Monday.
What will the GOP tackle first?
Crafting the next state budget. Gov. Scott Walker is expected introducev his executive budget by mid-February. The Legislatures Joint Finance Committee will then spend months revising the spending plan. The final version will then go back to Walker for his signature. Fitzgerald and Vos will have to move quickly to pick who will serve on the finance committee.
Whats the biggest budget issue?
Undoubtedly, it is the $1 billion shortfall in the states transportation fund. Walker has said he wont raise the gas tax or fees to fill the gap without cutting taxes elsewhere. He plans to include a proposal in his executive budget that deals with the shortfall by delaying major projects and borrowing. Fitzgerald likes that approach, but Vos has criticized it as a short-sighted political solution. The stage is set for a bruising intraparty battle.
Health insurance?
Republicans will have to deal with the local fallout from changes president-elect Donald Trump makes to the Affordable Care Act, President Barack Obamas signature health insurance overhaul. Trump has said he wants to repeal the law. About 240,000 Wisconsin residents are enrolled in health plans sold on the federal marketplace and could lose coverage. Both Fitzgerald and Vos said its too early to tell what might happen, but they expect to have to adjust. Vos has said he wants to increase coverage but do it in a way that doesnt distort the marketplace in creating winners and losers like Obamacare did. Fitzgerald said he expects a full repeal, which will put pressure on the states to find coverage for people. He would like to make any adjustments as part of the state budget but said wholesale changes will be difficult.
School funding
Assembly Republicans have called for reviewing the states school-funding formula and considering moving functions from the state Department of Public Instruction to local districts, which could result in DPI staffing cuts. They also want to explore creating so-called education savings accounts. In other states that use such accounts, eligible children receive several thousand dollars from the state to pay educational expenses. The money can be used for private school tuition, books or other expenses.
University of Wisconsin System
Republicans will have to decide whether to extend a University of Wisconsin System tuition freeze. The GOP has frozen tuition for four straight years and cut $250 million from the system in the last state budget. System leaders have asked Walker to lift the freeze and give them an additional $42.5 million in the upcoming budget.
Concealed weapons
Vos sounds like hed be open to revisiting whether to allow people to carry concealed weapons on school grounds, which is currently a felony. Republicans last year drafted a bill that would allow concealed carry on school property and let districts decide whether to allow it inside their buildings. Vos didnt advance the measure because it came so near the end of the session. But he said after the election that people who carry concealed are legitimately worried about getting arrested when they drop their children off at school.
Prevailing wage
Vos has talked about doing away with the prevailing wage, a law that sets minimum salaries for construction workers on public projects. Republicans included provisions in the last state budget that eliminated requirements that local governments pay workers the prevailing wage for work on government projects.
Tax cuts
Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, the states largest business group, is pushing the GOP to reduce income taxes. Scott Manley, WMCs vice president of government relations, said taxes especially need to be reduced for top earners. Fitzgerald has said one of the Senates priorities will be reducing the tax burden on Wisconsin residents. Assembly Republicans Forward agenda includes plans to form a task force on reducing taxes and to create a sales tax holiday.
The number of economic development projects that the Fredericksburg Regional Alliance has helped bring to the area has accelerated from zero to 44 since 2014.
And its already working on 13 projects for fiscal year 2017.
We do joke that we have too much going on and will have to start turning stuff away, FRA President Curry Roberts told attendees at the alliances annual membership meeting Thursday at the University of Mary Washingtons Jepson Alumni Executive Center.
The Fredericksburg Regional Alliance is a public-private partnership that markets the region to economic development prospects. It helped bring $127.5 million in capital investments to the area in 2015 that created 250 jobs, and $200 million in investments this year that will create 400 jobs. So far, its projected to bring $93 million and 304 jobs in 2017.
Roberts said that interest from the retail/hospitality sector was down slightly from 2015 to 2016 and ticked upward in the office and professional sector. But the lions share of interest64 percent this yearremains in industrial warehouses. An example is Harris Teeters decision last year to invest $95 million to establish a 1.5 million-square-foot food distribution operation in Caroline County.
With a little bit of luck, were actually going to run out of existing buildings on the warehouse and industrial side in the region. Were probably going to have to start talking about some spec construction in the region, he said. We have some interest in spec industrial development.
Roberts said that the inventory of industrial warehouse space is also limited statewide, so building some speculative industrial warehouse space would help us to get a little bit ahead of that curve.
One of the regions greatest advantages in attracting businesses, other than its location, is its relatively low local tax burden compared to Northern Virginia. It is more in line with the local tax burden per capita in the Richmond region and the Roanoke Valley, he said.
One of our challenges is we are often just lumped in with Northern Virginia and many times that means were excluded before were even looked at, Roberts said.
He said that showing potential investors a tax burden comparison is a major piece of the alliances marketing efforts.
Sometimes we simply summarize this by simply saying, were as far north as you can go on 95 and have a southeastern business climate, Roberts said. That seems to resonate with prospects.
FRA supplied 75 percent of the funds that area localities needed to do site-readiness studies for large tracts of land. These included the 70-acre Hylton property in Fredericksburg, the 227-acre University of Mary Washington property in Stafford County and the 300-acre Taylor property in King George County.
The alliance also helped Caroline and Spotsylvania counties with funds to do a study of the 1,174-acre Orrock-Simms property, which spans the borders of both counties. It wasnt enough to perform a detailed assessment, but FRA applied for and will receive a $5,000 Virginia Business Ready Sites Program grant to help pay for it.
Located at the intersection of Interstate 95 and State Route 606, this working farm owned partly by Del. Bobby Orrocks family, is one of the largest single pieces of available property in Virginias site inventory. Roberts said that the assessment should be completed by the end of the year.
The alliance is also working with the University of Mary Washingtons Center for Business Research and others on several research projects in the region over the next two years. These include: cybersecurity, the cost of traffic congestion to governments and businesses in the region, and how much of the regions job growth can be attributed to regional versus national factors.
The center will also look into the regional economic impact of the naval bases at Dahlgren and Indian Head, Md. , Roberts said.
MADISON Wisconsin Democrats reeling from historic losses in Tuesdays election and grappling with how to bounce back say they need to do a better job articulating their vision, particularly to working and middle-class workers who used to be reliably on their side but no longer are.
Democratic strategists, office holders and party leaders also warn against overreacting, saying the unexpected stronger turnout for Donald Trump helped other Republican candidates in the state who otherwise would have lost.
I didnt know a single Democrat or progressive that woke up Wednesday that wasnt mad as hell, said strategist Patrick Guarasci, who lives in Milwaukee and worked for Democratic politicians and liberal groups. That fear, that anger, needs to be welled up inside every person and focused into action. That will help us as we find our way through these next few steps in what we need to do.
The path forward will not be easy for Democrats, and how they respond to the drubbing they took this year will be put to the test soon. In 2018, Democrats will be defending a U.S. Senate seat held by Tammy Baldwin and possibly trying to prevent Republican Gov. Scott Walker from winning a third term. Walker hasnt said definitively whether he will seek re-election.
The Democratic losses in this election were both unexpected and deep.
Hillary Clintons loss in Wisconsin was the first time since 1984 that the Democratic presidential nominee didnt carry the state.
U.S. Sen. Ron Johnsons win over Democratic former Sen. Russ Feingold marks the first time since 1980 that a Republican has won election to the Senate in a presidential year in Wisconsin.
Republicans increased their majority in the Assembly by one seat, giving them their largest numbers since 1957.
And Republicans gained at least one seat in the state Senate, resulting in their strongest majority since 1971.
Taken together, it was the worst election for Democrats in Wisconsin since 2010, when they lost the governors office, a U.S. Senate seat and control of both chambers of the Legislature in one night.
I think people in general are tired of the same old style, said U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan, whos been in Congress since 2013 after a 12-year career in the state Assembly.
Democrats should have never lost in winning over working and middle-class voters with their vision for improving the economy, said Pocan, whose district includes the Madison area as well as more rural counties in the south-central part of the state. There is justifiable anger among those people, many of whom were attracted to Trump, that they have been left behind, Pocan said.
Sachin Chheda, a liberal strategist from Milwaukee, agreed with Pocan that Democrats need to do a better job articulating their message.
We need, clearly, to do a better job explaining why our policies will make lives better for people who arent voting for us, Chheda said. If we think its right and people dont believe it, then we need to do a better job explaining it.
Democrats were confident the typically higher turnout in presidential years would propel them to victory this year. Democratic turnout was lower in urban areas for Clinton this year than it had been for Obama in 2012, and Trump outperformed her in more rural parts of the state.
Its been obvious for a few years but it exploded on Tuesday, said Tim Cullen, a 72-year-old former state senator from Janesville who is preparing to run for governor. The Democratic Party has to speak clearly to rural small towns in Wisconsin and America.
More also needs to be done to motivate African American, female, Hispanic and young voters in Milwaukee, Guarasci said.
The most important thing is people dont give up and they continue to fight, said Scot Ross, director of the liberal advocacy group One Wisconsin Now. They need progressives and Democrats out there fighting because this stuff, these issues, matter.
Cullen was optimistic that Democrats will bounce back in the 2018 midterm elections.
Even though it looks like were at a political bottom, Cullen said, things can change very quickly in America and in Wisconsin.
On Election Day in Rochester, New York, the grave of womens suffrage leader Susan B. Anthony was almost completely covered by red-white-and-blue I Voted stickers. Some visitors left flowers or thank you notes.
Hundreds most expecting Hillary Clinton to become the first female president visited Anthonys grave Tuesday to pay their respects to a woman best known for her fight to see women get the right to vote.
At Forest Hill Cemetery on Madisons Near West Side, the grave of Wisconsin womens suffrage activist Belle Case La Follette did not go unloved. Darin Hall, the cemeterys lead worker, found two I Voted stickers on La Follettes grave Tuesday morning, as well as a little American flag.
When Karen Thompson, who works in the cemeterys office, shared Halls photo of the grave with a reporter and copied the public information officer for Madison Parks, Parks operations manager Lisa Laschinger ordered the stickers removed.
Prior to your call from this morning, Madison Parks was not aware of any movement or activity that would take place at the grave today, nor did we grant permission for the stickers to be placed, Parks spokeswoman Ann Shea wrote in an email. Out of respect for Ms. La Follette, her family and her grave, and to help protect the stone from damage, the I Voted stickers have been removed.
One other sticker went up on the gravestone later in the day and was also removed, Shea said.
Bob Kann, a Madison resident who wrote the 2008 childrens book, Belle and Bob La Follette: Partners in Politics, said he doesnt know whether stickers damage a gravestone, but understands the citys rationale for removing them.
Its a trivial issue given the magnitude of the threat now posed to the world with the change in the countrys leadership, Kann said. Belle would immediately move into fighting mode about bigger issues.
When she fought for womens suffrage, she knew it would take a long time. And she was in the trenches. And shed be horrified about many things our new (President-elect Donald Trump) has said and done, he maintained.
While Belle La Follette (1859-1931) isnt an unknown figure in Madison or Wisconsin, more people knew about her husband, Fighting Bob La Follette, than knew about her, Kann said.
Shes heroic and had an opportunity to be the first female senator in the country, or one of the first, but turned it down, he said.
In 1931, the New York Times called Belle Case La Follette probably the least known yet most influential of all the American women who have had to do with public affairs.
Not only was she an early anti-war and womens suffrage advocate, but she was an important adviser to her husband, a Progressive leader who served as governor of Wisconsin, as well as in both houses of Congress. She edited a section of her husbands magazine, now known as The Progressive, and wrote a massive, two-volume biography about him.
Her rectangular gravestone in section 4 at Forest Hill is in a plot with nine other La Follettes. On Wednesday, the day after the election, the flat markers were easy to overlook, all set into the earth and unadorned.
Kann called Belle La Follette presidential caliber material, adding that he would never underestimate her capabilities. Even her husband, Bob, said she was the brainiest member of the family and I agree, but people dont know about her.
Belle La Follette would be appalled that Hillary Clinton didnt win, Kann said, but shed just move on. Lets dig in and keep fighting.
IM NOT a Bigfoot expert, but at $1,000 per speaking engagement, I am willing to learn.
According to a Nov. 2 Associated Press story, the executive director of the University of New Mexicos Gallup campus raised a few eyebrows when he spent more than $7,000 in taxpayer money on a two-day, on-campus Bigfoot conference.
The wire service called UNMs Dr. Christopher Dyer an avid Bigfoot hunter in his spare time who says he only pursues the mythical creature when he isnt on the job, which means if hes hanging around the school bookstore one day and spots Sasquatch, its only a coincidence.
Dyer called the conference the largest and most well-attended event in the history of this campus and defended its cost.
People use monies from the taxpayers to do research. For Bigfoot or whatever, he said, according to AP.
A post-conference, off-campus hunt for Bigfoot by the executive director and some of his companionsalso paid for with UNM fundsyielded no sightings of the hairy mythical beast and Dyer admitted that taxpayers probably didnt get a lot of bang for their buck with the failed expedition, if only because of lousy weather.
Id have to say it was pretty much a blown waste of money because we did not find evidence because of the snow. It was just impossible to get around out there. So in that case, yeah would we spend money on that again? Absolutely not, he said.
UNM President Robert Frank wasnt happy about the expense.
Dr. Dyer needs to be much more thoughtful about how he undertakes these activities, he said in what I imagine to be his best Dean Wormer from Animal House impersonation. The type of expedition that just took place was not appropriate and will not occur in that manner again.
The AP said the school was on the hook for advertising for the conference, meals for guest speakers, airfare and per diem.
Self-professed Bigfoot expert Dr. Jeff Meldrum was paid a $1,000 honorarium plus expenses, according to the story.
Self-professed? Wait a minute ... maybe I am a Bigfoot expert, if self-professing is what it takes.
The following is an unpaid advertisement for the newly formed Acme International Bipedal Humanoid Speakers Bureau, of which I am executive director:
Do you need a self-professed Bigfoot expert to speak at your next university conference, Rotary meeting or family reunion? If you have $1,000, Im just the man for the job.
Hello, I am Scott Hollifield, executive director of the International Bipedal Humanoid Speakers Bureau and I have been a Bigfoot expert for the last two-and-half minutes.
During that time, I have extensively studied this amazing creature, his habitat, his elusive nature and what I might be able to buy with one thousand extra dollars. And now, I am available to share that knowledge with you for only $1,000, the cost of meals, airfare and all the cashews I can eat. I really like cashews.
During my informative and entertaining presentation, I will answer such Bigfoot-related questions as:
Does Bigfoot have a difficult time finding shoes?
What is the relationship between Bigfoot sightings and blood-alcohol content?
If Bigfoot fought the Loch Ness Monster, who would win?
Following my presentation, I will lead a select group of individuals on an expedition to locate Bigfoot. We shall leave no stone unturned, searching every pub, brewery and gentlemans club in an effort to locate this magnificent beast and buy him a round.
To book an engagement, just contact me at the International Bipedal Humanoid Speakers Bureau, where our motto is, Were self-professed but were still the best (that you can get for $1,000).
Scott Hollifield is editor/general manager of The McDowell News in Marion, N.C. Contact him at rhollifield@mcdowellnews.com.
New Spiritual Story Book Released! By Saharra White-Wolf November 14, 2016
Saharra White-Wolf is launching Her brand new book, "The Inside World", available through Through Amazon and Barnes & Noble online at on Saharra's website www.SaharraWhiteWolf.com. Targeted for fans who want to learn more about compassion for self and creating a better world for themselves.
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Shamanic Practitioner and Certified Reiki Master Saharra White-Wolf is launching her brand new book, "The Inside World". The book is available today through Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and online at on Saharra's website www.SaharraWhiteWolf.com. It is expected to become a big hit with fans of the Spiritual world, who seek compassion for self, and wants unconditional self-love.
More information on the book can be found here: www.SaharraWhiteWolf.com
This is the first book White-Wolf has authored in "The Inner Knowing Trilogy." The book was written as our society is going through an intense period, it is more important than ever that people and children become aware of the spiritual support system, which exists around us at all times. There's also particular excitement about this launch because she wants the readers to feel inspired by the story and awaken their curiosity about the spiritual realm. She wants readers to know that love is the most powerful energy on the planet. Through compassion, self-doubt can be cleared and we can start shining our light, which will create a better world for us and our children.
The Inside World sets its main focus on Saharra's true experiences through her shamanic studies. There has not been a book quite like this written which takes place in different dimensions and realms with three different text colors guides the reader through the different realms. Readers will likely find a particular interest in this story about a boy, who was chosen from the spirit world to change the vibration of love on Planet Earth. It's a story about how he connects with the spirit beings, follows their guidance and grows out of self-doubt, finds self-love, and changes the vibration of Love on Earth. The book's cover art was created by Laura McClanahan and The Inside World is being released by Balboa Press.
Saharra White-Wolf has a background in and is a shamanic practitioner, certified Reiki Master and teacher, hospice nurse and life guide. This helped shaped the creation of the book and this story was inspired by Saharra's life, her work with clients, who seek connection with the spirit world, and by her children. .
When asked about why they wrote the book, White-Wolf said: "My wish is to inspire and touch others on their spiritual Quest."
White-Wolf has hopes that in this book you will discover how to find self-love through compassion. The heart is the key to the universe. She lives her life holistically and she is the mother of three, born and raised in Austria.
In a recent interview, the author made a point of thanking Laura McClanahan, the artist and illustrator for her part in the creation of the book, saying: "Thank you Laura McClanahan, www.lauramcclanahan.com for your unique artistry that is showcased for the first time with the book design cover and illustrations."
Those interested in learning more about the book and Saharra can visitwww.SaharraWhiteWolf.com.
Saharra White-Wolf is launching her brand new book, "The Inside World", available through Amazon and Barnes & Noble online and on Saharra's website. Targeted at fans of the Spiritual world who are seeking to learn more about compassion for self and creating a better world for themselves and their children. More information is available at the website: www.SaharraWhiteWolf.com
For more information, please visit http://SaharraWhiteWolf.com
Contact Info:
Name: Saharra White Wolf
Organization: AWAKYA, LLC
Address: Bridge Street
Release ID: 145679
For more information visit r
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Astro Guide Launches New Website
Astro Guide is please to announce the launching of its newly designed and mobile friendly website. Users are now able to find timely information on astrology trends and forecast. http://astro-guide.com
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Astro-Guide is pleased to announce the redesign and launch of its website www.astro-guide.com. The new site is user friendly and mobile friendly.
Astro Guide website provides information for aficionados and debutantes of astrology studies. Users will find astute information on how best to find quality information on astrological topics.
As part of its objective to provide essential information on astrology, Astro Guide offers ongoing newsletters for members to stay informed of the latest development in the modern astrological interpretations.
Ferguson, owner of Astro Guide, explains "people are seeking reliable information of astrology, and want to the best resources to either learn astrology to be self-reliant in forecasting charts or alternatively how to avoid subpar astrologers who do not have the training or experience required for expert advice, Astro-Guide fills this need."
Based on both ancient and modern astrology traditions, the website is intended for people who are interested in learning more about themselves and want to discover the higher self as seen through the astrological chart. Through deeper understanding with the chart knowledge one understands the core of the self and learns about the evolution of consciousness.
Ferguson continues "This critical time in the world needs for the consciousness of humanity to evolve, untold numbers of people want to know the nature of being, the essential truth and are on the path of transformation."
A visitor to the website will find various methods to find how astrology can guide them along with modern and traditional teachings. In addition one can join the newsletter memo to be informed of continuing developments and the latest postings. According to Ferguson "It is very important to bring more awareness of the validity of astrology in order for people to discover ones true inner nature to help transform the world".
In addition to timely articles of astrological significance the website offers how to methods on interpreting an astrology chart. The website also provides an array of useful links to free programs to get started in understanding how astrology works. Part of the resource includes basic astrology tools such as access to create an astrology chart or astrology software programs.
For more information, please visit http://www.astro-guide.com
Contact Info:
Name: Mark Ferguson
Organization: Astro Guide
Address: PO Box 1928
Release ID: 145687
For more information visit r
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Cummins Standby Generators Dealer Air & Liquid Cooled Models Announced
The renowned Buckeye Power Systems announced its leading range of reliable and premium quality Cummins standby air- or liquid-cooled generators in a wide range of sizes and voltages to suit different residential, commercial or industrial settings, backup power needs and budgets.
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Nationally recognized Buckeye Power Systems announced its leading and diverse range of top standby generators from the world leader in power generation products, Cummins Power Generation, a unit of Cummins, Inc. Ideal for any residential, commercial or industrial application, Cummins is a world leader in power generation products serving the marine, RV, .
More information is available at http://buckeyepowersystems.com.
Buckeye Power Systems is a popular factory-authorized sales and service dealer for Generac and Cummins generators based in Cordova, Memphis, Tennessee, drawing on a team of factory-trained professionals to deliver the best generator options, deals, installation or service pricing, reviews, rankings and advice for home or business owners and industrial clients across the country.
The trusted and full-service e-commerce seller of premium quality generators announced its selection of standby generators from Cummins Power Generation, including a broad range of the most dependable and economical options to ensure reliable backup power in the event of a power outage in any residential, commercial or industrial setting.
The range of Cummins standby generators provided by Buckeye Power Systems include air-cooled, liquid-cooled and diesel generators available in a wide range of sizes and voltages, from 8kW to 150kW and higher, supported by expert advice from its friendly and experienced staff committed to helping clients find the best and most suitable backup power solution for their particular needs and budget.
Free estimates and consultations with the Buckeye Power System team along with more information on the full range of standby and portable generators, transfer switches or generator parts available can be requested at 901-379-8097 or through the website provided link above along with up-to-date standby generator rankings, extensive tips and advice on standby generator installation costs, and choosing an installer.
David RIchey, president of Buckeye Power Systems explains that "in our experience selling standby generators to homeowners and industry, Cummins gets a 5-star rating consistently. Over 3,000 of the nation's home builders have also awarded Cummins with Builder magazine's Brand Leader award for each of the past four years. Cummins generators can be found at online stores like ours or big box stores like Home Depot but our best advice to customers is to develop a relationship with a factory-authorized dealer where you will benefit from solid advice and factory-trained technicians. We encourage customers to call us for rock bottom pricing on specific models."
For more information, please visit http://buckeyepowersystems.com
Contact Info:
Name: David Richey
Email: david@buckeyepowersystems.com
Organization: Buckeye Power Systems, LLC
Address: 1245 Big Orange Rd.
Phone: (901) 379-8097
Release ID: 145667
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Office 2016 Promo Code Launches Microsoft Holiday Sale And Previews Black Friday Deals
Office 2016 Promo Code had received a new suite of exclusive offers from Microsoft designed to help people get the best value over the holidays, with previews of the upcoming Black Friday deals.
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Microsoft is one of the biggest technology brands in the world, and their products are used every day by over a billion people. As such, the demand for their products is always high, and people are always looking to source them at the best price. Fortunately, Office 2016 Promo Code has been in business for a decade, offering the best money saving deals on Microsoft software and hardware available online. The site has now launched Microsoft Office Promo Code as part of the Microsoft Holiday sale, as well as offering previews of incoming Black Friday deals.
The new holiday discounts include amazing moneysaving deals on the latest Office 2016 suite, the brand new Surface Studio package, the latest Xbox One S and associated game bundles, desktop and laptop machines, together with a whole of host of accessories and other Microsoft products, all dedicated to making life easier at home, school and in the workplace.
The website also has information on the forthcoming deals for the Microsoft Black Friday 2016 online event, designed to help people get the same amazing deals they can in stores without having to fight their way through the ravenous crowds. The deals are already looking amazing, and individuals should sign into the site as early as possible to secure them before they expire.
A spokesperson for Office 2016 Promo Code explained, "We are thrilled to have received these great offers and incentives direct from the Microsoft Store, so that our users can make huge savings when they come to buy the products they need from Microsoft. With the holidays approaching, many people are looking at gaming systems and laptops to provide the ultimate gift. We can help them make their budget stretch further. Black Friday will be the ultimate savings day, so we encourage all users to get on the site early morning to be the first to get amazing offers."
About Office 2016 Promo Code: Office 2016 Promo Code is an online resource center dedicated to helping people get the very best deals available online for Microsoft products and services. The website is frequently updated by a committed team of researchers, who have established special relationships with the Microsoft Store over more than eight years, to successfully secure exclusive deals and offers.
For more information, please visit http://www.office2016promocode.com/
Contact Info:
Name: PRWhirlWind
Organization: PRWhirlWind
Source: http://marketersmedia.com/office-2016-promo-code-launches-microsoft-holiday-sale-and-previews-black-friday-deals/145720
Release ID: 145720
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By Stef Gijssels We love solo bass albums, and it seems that they keep coming in great numbers. The overview below is indeed nothing more t...
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National Bible Week Commemorating 75th Anniversary with Special Reading of the Bible on Floor of the US House of Representatives
National Bible Association with Rep. Doug Lamborn (CO) host bi-partisan event to include readings from the Bible on Tuesday November 15th, 2016.
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2016 / Christian Newswire / -- In commemoration of the 75th Anniversary of National Bible Week, a bi-partisan event will be held on the floor of the US House of Representatives and will include readings from the Bible. Led by U.S. Congressmen, Doug Lamborn of Colorado Spring, CO., the event will be held in the afternoon hours of Tuesday November 15th, 2016 and will include the reading of passages from three different Bibles:
A Catholic Bible
A Jewish Bible
A Protestant Bible
WHO: Members of the House of Representatives led by U.S. Congressmen, Doug Lamborn of Colorado Spring, CO., in partnership with National Bible Association.
WHAT: Bi-Partisan Commemoration Event of 75th Anniversary of National Bible Week
WHEN: 3pm ET exact time may vary depending on potential House schedule overruns.
WHERE: The Floor of The House of Representatives
DAY OF POINT OF CONTACT: Elise Inman - (e) : Elise Inman - (e) einman@nationalbible.org (p) 615 775- 6902
The National Bible Association is a non-profit, educational association operating in the public square that provides a platform for our Nation's Leaders to encourage people to read the Bible. The National Bible Association was created in 1940 by a group of business and professional leaders in New York City. Their purpose was to find hope for America while war raged in Europe.
Today, the strength of National Bible continues as an association of dedicated members who encourage Bible reading locally, through events and special projects, and nationally, through media campaigns. This is done primarily through our three main program areas: International Bible Week (previously National Bible Week), Media & Literature, and Awards and Recognition. Our goal is to encourage everyone to read the Bible and raise awareness of the Bible's importance and relevance to our nation as a whole, as well as in the lives of individuals.
Story Highlights Identity theft and credit card hacking remain greatest worries
Worries about terrorism up 8 points from 2015
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Americans are about as worried as they were last year about being victims of a host of different crimes. Their fears have increased on three of the 13 crimes that Gallup asked them about in both years: being a victim of terrorism, being attacked while driving and getting mugged.
Americans' Worries About Various Crimes, 2015 vs. 2016 How often do you, yourself, worry about the following things -- frequently, occasionally, rarely or never? How about ... ? 2015 2016 Change % Frequently or occasionally worry % Frequently or occasionally worry (pct. pts.) Being a victim of terrorism 27 35 8 Being attacked while driving your car 17 23 6 Getting mugged 25 30 5 Your home being burglarized when you are not there 39 43 4 Being sexually assaulted 16 20 4 Having your car stolen or broken into 40 43 3 Being the victim of a hate crime 19 22 3 Being a victim of identity theft 69 70 1 Having a school-aged child of yours physically harmed while attending school 33 34 1 Your home being burglarized when you are there 25 26 1 Getting murdered 17 18 1 Being assaulted/killed by a coworker/employee where you work 7 8 1 Having the credit card information you have used at stores stolen by computer hackers 69 69 0 Having your email, passwords or electronic records hacked into -- 64 -- Oct. 5-9, 2016 Gallup
Worries about nearly all of these crimes have varied since Gallup first asked about them in 2000, but almost all are within three percentage points of their historical averages. One issue -- fear of being the victim of a hate crime -- is on the high end of its 13% to 22% range since 2000 and is up three points from last year, but this is within the margin of error.
Crimes that Gallup introduced to the list in more recent years -- identity theft (70%) and credit card hacking (69%) -- have not varied much, and remain atop the list of Americans' crime worries. Concerns about email and password hacking (64%), new to the list this year, also rank near the top of the list.
Worries About Being Victim of Terrorism at Highest Since 2009
More than a third of Americans (35%) say they frequently or occasionally worry about being a victim of terrorism, the highest since 2009, when the same percentage reported this level of worry. This is not as high, however, as concerns about terrorism in the first five years after 9/11, which ranged from 38% to 47% -- the latter being the high reached immediately after the terrorist attacks.
Increased concern about terrorism this year comes after a shooter in San Bernardino, California, took 14 lives last December and a shooter in Orlando, Florida, killed 49 people in June -- the latter being the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history.
Bottom Line
For the most part, Americans' worries about being the victim of a variety of crimes are at about their respective averages, and none of them have decreased since last year. Gallup reports that household crime victimization is at a new high and Americans' perceptions of crime in the U.S. remain elevated.
Americans slightly favor law and order when it comes to the priorities of the criminal justice system, and President-elect Donald Trump's emphasis on this in the 2016 campaign may have been a factor in his success at the ballot box. If, as president, he is successful in bringing a greater sense of general security for Americans, their concerns about various crimes may decrease.
Historical data are available in Gallup Analytics.
Survey Methods
Results for this Gallup poll are based on telephone interviews conducted Oct. 5-9, 2016, on the Gallup U.S. Daily survey, with a random sample of 1,017 adults, aged 18 and older, living in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. For results based on the total sample of national adults, the margin of sampling error is 4 percentage points at the 95% confidence level. All reported margins of sampling error include computed design effects for weighting.
Each sample of national adults includes a minimum quota of 60% cellphone respondents and 40% landline respondents, with additional minimum quotas by time zone within region. Landline and cellular telephone numbers are selected using random-digit-dial methods.
View survey methodology, complete question responses and trends.
Learn more about how the Gallup Poll Social Series works.
Coldplay Latest News & Update: Beyonce Snubs Duet Track? Chris Martin Explains Why
Coldplay's Chris Martin recently asked Beyonce to sing a Coldplay track. Beyonce turned down the offer and Chris Martin explains why.
Coldplay Latest News & Update: Beyonce Snubs Coldplay
Coldplay is a British rock band that was formed in 1996. Chris Martin serves as its lead vocalist and keyboardist and Jonny Buckland serves as its lead guitarist. Guy Berryman later joined the band as bassist, Will Champion joined as drummer and backing vocalist and Phil Harvey was referred as the official fifth member of Coldplay.
Coldplay's Chris Martin and Gwyneth Paltrow once had a double date with Beyonce and Jay-Z. This shows that they are on good terms and are working together well. However, according to TV3, Beyonce turned down Chris Martin after he asked her to sing the new Coldplay song "Hook Up" together.
Coldplay Latest News & Update: Beyonce Says Song Is Awful
In Billboard, Chris Martin explains why Beyonce turned him down and snubs the track. When she was asked to sing the song, she replied and told him that he likes him in the sweetest possible way. She added that the song "Hook up" is awful and she politely showed them the door. With this, the duet between Beyonce and Coldplay did not happen.
This is actually not the first time that a Coldplay song was turned down. In 2014, David Bowie also declined a duet with the band. Chris Martin once sent him a song but David replied that it is not their best song. Unlike Beyonce, they had no chance to collaborate and sing with David Bowie again.
Coldplay Latest News & Update: Beyonce Sings With Coldplay
The Irish Examiner reports that after Beyonce turned down Coldplay, then eventually agreed to sing a song. Coldplay ended up singing with the pop superstar as they performed the hit song "Hymn For The Weekend."
Samsung Galaxy S8 Release Date, Leaks & Updates: Model Numbers Out? Devices Could Be Company's Rescue After Note 7
The Samsung Galaxy S8 is one that could be the saving grace of the company after what transpired recently. That being said, replacements are in order for those troubled-though there are some who may not quite like the move just yet.
For those uninformed, a worldwide anomaly was caused by the faulty batteries of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7, wherein a many experienced the dread of smoking and even igniting batteries alike. With such an awful tragedy that befell the good company, the next series of mobile phones in line may be the key, namely the Samsung Galaxy S8 and the models beyond it.
According to Tech Times, the Samsung Galaxy S8 series has been leaked along with the Samsung Galaxy Note 8. Such model numbers are the SM-G950 and SM-G955 for the Samsung Galaxy 8 and the SM-N950 is to be made for the Samsung Galaxy Note 8 respectively. Apart from these leaks, some speculations suggest that there will be a critical move that will change the face of the said mobile phone line, which is the use of the Exynos chipset.
Reports claim that the Samsung Galaxy S8 and the Samsung Galaxy Note 8 will don the aforementioned chipset, made by Samsung themselves and have been utilized for quite a notable time. Being the flagship devices of the South Korean company, Exynos and Qualcomm are both recognized as remarkable variables to this day. That, however, might be changed soon enough as early as next year due to Samsung's goals to creating a new powerful Exynos with the Shannon 359 modem-though it is yet to be confirmed.
Even with the supposed release of the Samsung Galaxy S8 and presumably the Samsung Galaxy Note 8, the Shannon 359 modem may take a while longer. That being said, all the information surrounding these devices are advised to be taken only with a grain of salt for now.
Samsung Electronics News & Update: Galaxy S8 Maker Involved In Political Scandal; Market Share Going Down, Outpaced By Apple?
Samsung Electronics, one of the top rival of Apple, is believed to be facing a crisis this year. 2016 already looked to be worst for Samsung's history not to mention the selling of exploding smart phones and washing machines that hurt consumers including a broken jaw and injured shoulder.
Furthermore, Samsung Electronics has just been reported to be involved in a South Korean political scandal investigation . A report illustrated by CNBC states that South Korean prosecutors raided the offices of Samsung Electronics as part of a political scandal involving President Park Geun-hye and her close friend, Choi Soon-sil , who is allegedly to have exerted improper influence in state affairs.
In fact it was confirmed by BBC , that there were allegations that Samsung Electronics gave money to the daughter of Choi Soon-sil. It can be remembered that Choi's daughter is currently undergoing an equestrian training in Germany.
Samsung HQ raided by prosecutors as South Korean political scandal deepens https://t.co/BEq6U5aoSD The Guardian (@guardian) November 8, 2016
Samsung is having another bad day. Fiery Phones, exploding washing machines and now raided in #SKorea's biggest political scandal. pic.twitter.com/IriqYM6SYF Jim Clancy (@ClancyReports) November 8, 2016
It is claimed that Samsung Electronics' executives were asked by Park to provide donations of 3.5 billion won ($3 million). Moreover it was believed that, being caught in a dilemma, Samsung Electronics would likely grant such request because of such political influence of the President.
Indeed, if prosecutors would find hard evidence proving that Samsung Electronics has transferred money to Choi Soon-sil and her daughter, then a crisis of consumer confidence would then follow through.
Clearly if this would happen then Samsung Electronics would go down and Apple will be able to outrun the company.
Will Apple outrun Samsung's market share?
UFC Latest News & Updates: Connor McGregor Becomes First Fighter in UFC History to Hold Two Weight Class Titles Simultaneously
Connor "The Notorious" McGregor is the first fighter in the UFC's 23-year history to hold two weight class titles simultaneously. He is currently the reigning featherweight champion and is the new lightweight champion after he defeated Eddie Alvarez in convincing fashion in the main event of UFC 205.
Although McGregor wasn't able to rearrange the facial structure of Alvarez like he said he would, the fighter dominated Alvarez the entire fight, landing his left hand and a few combinations to the face of Alvarez. Alvarez went down three times in the first round before 'Big' John McCarthy ended the fight in the second round when he went down for the fourth time.
McGregor even taunted Alvarez in the second round. He occasionally put his hands behind his back, daring Alvarez to try and hit him. It didn't take look before Connor McGregor put Alvarez out for the win when he hit a solid punch to the face.
"My dream has become a reality," said McGregor. When the belt was presented to him, McGregor once again displayed his "badass" antics. "I spend a lot of time slinging everyone in the company, I've ridiculed everyone on the roster, I'd like to take the time to apologize to absolutely nobody. A double champ does whatever the (expletive) he wants," the UFC fighter said.
Connor McGregor is now 21-3 in his MMA career and 8-1 in the UFC. He's lone loss came against Nate Diaz earlier this year, a loss which the Dublin native avenged five months later. He's also won 17 of his last 18 fights.
Last year, he was asked what will happen if he does win the lightweight title. "If I go up to that lightweight division, there's no way in hell that I'm vacating my belt (featherweight title)," said McGregor. "There will be a belt on one shoulder, and a belt on the other," he added. For more UFC news and updates, keep it here on Gamenguide.
Facebook Latest News & Updates: Experts Say Facebook's 'Fake News' Highlights Need For Social Media Revamp
The proliferation of "fake news" on Facebook has prompted experts to take action on the urgent need for a new social media legal framework. Experts warn that the proliferation of misinformation is an enormous problem and might have tilted the last US Elections.
A report from Fox News has quoted Keith Altman, a lawyer at 1-800 Law firm, that such misinformation can lead to future problems and social media platforms should start a call to action regarding "fake news." Facebook's Trending Topics were easily taken prey by high-profile fake news after the social media platform implemented the algorithm feed last summer.
Facebook Latest News & Updates: Mark Zuckerberg Defends Facebook From Tilting The National Elections
In an article written by the Wall Street Journal, the co-founder of Facebook and its current CEO defends the social media platform of tilting the US elections. People who joined the conference held at Half Moon Bay, California had a chance to listen to Mark Zuckerberg's rebuttal of Facebook manipulating the elections through "fake news." He told participants that it was a crazy idea and the content of "fake news" in Facebook was very small.
It was noted that a false article regarding the firing of Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly and a fake article regarding the 9/11 terrorist attacks was trending all over facebook. In other occasions, a seemingly inoffensive hashtag was linked to videos that showed inappropriate content. Social media platforms are protected by section 230 of the Communications Decency Act that basically protects people that post "fake news" and gives them immunity from criminal liability.
Facebook Latest News & Updates: Section 230 Must Be Revisited & Social Media Legal Framework Should be Updated
Keith Altman of the 1-800 Law Firm also suggested to revisit Section 230 and recommends that they should be clearly defined. He also told Fox News that the unrestrained nature of social media platforms like Facebook that enables users to share and view content from any source should have a new legal framework.
Android 7.0 Nougat Beta Program Latest News & Update: OS Ready For Galaxy S7, S7 Edge Users! Update Not Useful?
Months have passed since Android 7.0 Nougat was launched to Google phones such as Pixel and Pixel XL but not to other Android smartphones. Now, Samsung S7 and S7 Edge users can somehow experience the new update as Android 7.0 Nougat Beta Program arrived. But, is it true that the new OS is not useful?
Android 7.0 Nougat Beta Program Ready For Galaxy S7, S7 Edge Users!
Samsung's official website noted that Samsung electronics is now offering Android 7.0 Nougat Beta Program. The said program was released last November 9 to Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge users who are residing in Korea, U.K., and U.S. Also, the said launching includes consumers live in China.
While Android 7.0 Nougat Beta Program is rolling, the smartphone users can get to experience the OS update with Samsung's latest UX. They can also leave feedback or suggestions for its reliability and performance. This is meant for improving and enhancing all the gray areas before it'll be officially launched to all smart handsets that use Android.
Furthermore, it has been cited that in using the Android 7.0 Nougat Beta Program, clients will be on a first come, first-served basis. Samsung's patrons who happen to have an active Samsung account and meet the requirements may apply and get the OS update by downloading it using Galaxy app. The Galaxy app can be downloaded on Google Play.
Android 7.0 Nougat Beta Program Not Useful?
Rumors about Android 7.0 Nougat Beta Program being not useful are indeed false. In fact, most Android smartphones are going to receive the said update. All One Plus high-end phones will be having the updated OS soon. The beta version was recently launched to One Plus units and results were noted in Geekbench.
Meanwhile, Mobipicker cited that Android 7.0 Nougat Beta Program on LG devices will also arrive except for LG V10. The update for that specific device may come in March 2017. But for LG G5, the latest OS will land this mid-November.
Though there's no official release date for Android 7.0 Nougat, users can now experience the feel and changes of the latest OS using Android 7.0 Nougat Beta Program. Smartphone consumers are now getting more excited as it was speculated that the update will be released in January 2017.
Star Wars Rebel Season 3 Episode 8 Spoilers, News & Update: Hans Solos Millennium Falcon Seen? Admiral Thrawn Back! Rebels In Danger?
Fans will be in for a big surprise in the coming "Star Wars Rebel" Season 3 Episode 8. In the new installment, a spaceship that exactly looks like the legendary starship Millennium Falcon will be seen. Is Hans Solo will appear in the animated TV series?
Unfortunately, the new trailer of "Star Wars Rebel" Season 3 Episode 8 doesn't confirm the appearance of Hans Solo in the said episode. However, a ship that exactly looks like the Millennium Falcon is set to appear.
According to Melty, the vehicle that will be seen in "Star Wars Rebel" Season 3 Episode 8 is a YT-2400 Freighter used by smugglers because of its invaluable speed and efficient use. The Millennium Falcon, on the other hand, is a YT-1300f light freighter that has a similar design with Hans Solo's ship and often deemed as the "fastest hunk of junk in the Galaxy."
In Episode 7, fans get to see the Imperial Super Commandos. While in "Star Wars Rebel" Season 3 Episode 8, the Ghost crew will meet the Iron Squadron, a group of young pilots.
Aside from that, "Star Wars Rebel" Season 3 Episode 8 will mainly focus once again on the adventure of Ezra and Sabine. They, too, will be joined by Thrawn. Grand Admiral Thrawn will be seen in two episodes and it looks like he brings a lot of troubles to the two young Rebels crew.
Meanwhile, Comic Book reported that the animated series has been in a week hiatus to give way the U.S. presidential election, in which Donald Trump wins. But, fans will finally get to see "Star Wars Rebel" Season 3 Episode 8, finally, this coming Saturday!
"Star Wars Rebel" has been known for following the story of The Ghost's team and their fight against the Empire to keep the Rebellion alive. With the return of Admiral Thrawn, the Rebels will be up to something very dangerous in "Star Wars Rebel" Season 3 Episode 8 that will air on Nov. 19 on Disney XD.
'Prison Break' Season 5 Air Date, Spoilers, News & Update: Alexander Mahone Returns? Familiar Faces Coming Back to Help Michael; Plot Details
After eight years of waiting, Fox's "Prison Break" Season 5 will finally be returning to the screens soon, and fans are excited for Michael Scofield's (Wentworth Miller) comeback. Even more exciting is that, alongside the soon-to-be escapee of Yemen's Ogygia Prison, a lot of familiar faces and names are also returning to the series.
But which ones would make or break Michael's escape from prison? Here's the rundown of everything you need to know about "Prison Break" Season 5 news, updates, spoilers, release dates and more.
What to expect from 'Prison Break' Season 5
"Prison Break" Season 5 will focus mainly on Michael Scofield's return from the dead, as he is found alive and well, albeit jailed, in Yemen's Ogygia Prison. This after he got into trouble with terrorist group ISIS, which framed him for crimes he did not commit.
In a reversal of roles fitting for the series' reboot, this time it's his brother Lincoln (Dominic Purcell) who will be bouncing him out of prison. The "Prison Break" Season 5 trailer showed both of him making plans and strategizing how to get out of prison, which involves waiting for Yemen's government to collapse as well as running an extremely complicated escape plan with electricity.
Who will be returning to 'Prison Break'
Apart from Wentworth Miller, Sarah Wayne Callies and Dominic Purcell are also returning to "Prison Break" Season 5, according to a report from International Business Times. Several familiar faces will also be returning, such as Amaury Nolasco, who plays Sucre, and Rockmond Dunbar (C-Note), both of whom are Fox River escapees.
Robert Knepper will also be returning to "Prison Break" Season 5 as T-Bag, while Paul Adelstein will be playing Kellerman. Sadly, William Fichtner's Alexander Mahone will not be returning to the series, as writer Paul Scheuring was unsure of how he will be written into the series.
Excited about Michael's return? "Prison Break" Season 5 will be returning to Fox on January 2017.
Google Pixel & Pixel XL News & Updates: Two Security Flaws Revealed by Hackers In One Month
Although the Google Pixel and Pixel XL phones were previously claimed to be as secure as iPhones, a group of Chinese hackers easily hacked the device in one minute. The Google Pixel smartphone's security was tested during the PwnFest hacking competition in Seoul, South Korea on Nov. 11, 2016.
Motherboard reported that previously, Adrian Ludwig, director of Android security at Google, claimed that the Google Pixel was just as secure as iPhones. Ludwig said that for almost all threat models, the Google Pixel and Pixel XL and iPhone are almost identical in terms of their platform-level capabilities.
The Register revealed that Ludwig was proven wrong, however, by a group of white hat hackers from China, who quickly hacked a Google Pixel at the hacking contest in Seoul. The hackers, who work at security solutions firm Qihoo 360, unveiled an exploit that caused the breach and provided them with full remote access and entry to personal information stored in the Google Pixel.
The exploit started the Google Play store and then opened Chrome to display a web page that read, "PwnedBy 360 Alpha Team." The hackers were awarded $120,000 for the Google Pixel feat.
Aside from the Google Pixel, a number of app exploits were also revealed during the hacking competition. Qihoo 360 also hacked Adobe Flash quickly, showing a combination decade-old, use-after-free zero day and win32k kernel fault. The hack only took four seconds.
The updated Safari browser of Apple running on MacOS Sierra was also compromised by Pangu team hackers. The group is well-known for featuring free modern iOS jailbreaks. The team earned $80,000 for using a root privilege escalation zero day to attack Safari in 20 seconds. At the end of the day, Qihoo 360 raked in a cash prize of $520,000.
In October 2016, rival white hat hackers at Keen Team ofTencent were also able to hack the Google Pixel at the Mobile Pwn2Own event in Japan. Google allegedly worked immediately to fix the revealed exploits on the Google Pixel.
The Chrome bug was reportedly patched within 24 hours of the contest and the changes have already been provided into the stable branch by the Chrome team. More updates and details on Google Pixel and Google Pixel XL are expected soon.
Alaskan Bush People Season 4 Air Date, Spoilers, News & Update: Special Episodes Airing In November Proves Season 4 Is Coming! Plot
Contrary to previous speculations that "Alaskan Bush People" Season 4 could be cancelled, it appears that fans may indeed expect an "Alaskan Bush People" Season 4 release date to be announced soon. As proof, a special episode has been recently aired to whet the appetites of viewers for the upcoming fourth season.
Special Episodes Airs Ahead Of 'Alaskan Bush People' Season 4 Air Date
In fact, a special episode has just been aired by Discovery ahead of the official "Alaskan Bush People" Season 4 release date. The first part, which was aired last November 9, is not yet a part of the fourth season but may be considered as a teaser to what's in store next season.
'Alaskan Bush People' Season 4 Cast Causes Cancellation Rumors
Apparently, it was some of the "Alaskan Bush People" Season 4 cast members themselves which seem to have been the cause of the cancellation rumors. For instance, many were concerned that eldest son Matt could be causing trouble for the show, reports Morning Ledger.
Matt Brown is said to be facing a worsening alcohol problem. In fact, he was already sent to rehab last season which sparked rumors that his absence may be affecting the show. With an "Alaskan Bush People" Season 4 release date still unannounced at the moment, Matt's problem with alcohol was once again seen as one of the possible reasons for the show's rumored cancellation.
But Matt is not the only "Alaskan Bush People" Season 4 cast member that fans are blaming should the cancellation rumors prove to be correct. Another sibling, Bam Bam Brown is reported to be dating the show's producer which could seal the show's fate.
'Alaskan Bush People' Season 4 Air Date
But the recent specials should prove once and for all that Discovery is still very interested in airing the show. In fact, another special episode, also known as "Alaskan Bush People: Bushcraft Chronicles," will be airing this coming November 15, 2016, titled "Shelters." For now though, Discovery is still to announce a definite "Alaskan Bush People: Season 4 release date. However, it is a good sign that the reality series is already listed as returning for the 2016-2017 TV season.
'House Of Cards' Season 5 Preparing For Kevin Spacey Departure? Patricia Clarkson Mystery Character Faces Off Against Robin Wright's Claire Underwood?
People are already beginning to fear that Frank Underwood will not last long in "House of Cards" Season 5. Kevin Spacey might soon leave the political drama, but does this mean that Robin Wright will become the new lead of the Netflix series?
Things might not go too smoothly for Claire Underwood even if Frank is no longer in the picture. There are speculations that Patricia Clarkson's mystery character will prove to be tough competition for Claire.
Is Kevin Spacey Leaving 'House Of Cards' Season 5? What Will Happen To Frank Underwood?
GamenGuide has previously reported on speculations that "House of Cards" Season 5 will be the show's last season. Some believe that the series is running out of creativity due to the departure of creator Beau Willimon. In addition to that, Kevin Spacey might be preparing to abandon the Netflix drama.
But what will happen to Frank Underwood in "House of Cards" Season 5? A few fans think that Kevin Spacey's character will end up getting assassinated, which could set up Claire Underwood's rise to power. However, Robin Wright's First Lady might need to face off with Patricia Clarkson's mystery character.
Will Claire Underwood Make A New Enemy Out Of Patricia Clarkson's Character In 'House Of Cards' Season 5?
The Hollywood Reporter broke the news that Patricia Clarkson will be joining the cast of "House of Cards" Season 5. The "Maze Runner 3" star and Campbell Scott from "Royal Pains" were both confirmed in major roles when the series returns on Netflix. But is it possible that Clarkson's character will get on Claire Underwood's bad side?
There are speculations that Patricia Clarkson will portray someone who could go up against Claire Underwood in "House of Cards" Season 5. Does this mean that another woman will compete with Claire to ultimately become the leader of the free world?
Do you think Kevin Spacey should remain in "House of Cards" Season 5? Will Claire Underwood have trouble dealing with Patricia Clarkson's character? Let us know in the comments below.
A second route, which will service downtown to Alamitos Beach, will launch on Nov. 10.
Sept. 6, 1922 Nov. 3, 2016
Minnie Lee Aldrich, 94, of Lebanon died Nov. 3.
Minnie Lee was born in Oakland, California, in 1922. She married her husband, Charlie, in 1939 at the age of 16. They were together for 46 years until he passed away in 1985. They raised four wonderful boys in Castro Valley, California. She moved to Lebanon in 1994.
Lee was a very intelligent little girl, being offered the chance to attend college at the age of 10. She was president of Aldrich Construction in Castro Valley. She also enjoyed speed reading, cooking, and drinking strawberry milkshakes. She was also a big NASCAR fan and a great poet.
Lee always had many wonderful stories for her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was very spirited and never at a loss for words. She had a sharp mind and quick wit until her last days. Her love, hugs and stories will be missed by many.
She is survived by her sons, Charlie, Ed, Thomas and Jimmy Aldrich; nine grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, at Brookdale, 181 Fifth St., Lebanon.
Given an opportunity to help the Oregon Legislature balance the state's budget by passing a flawed tax measure, voters demurred: Measure 97, which would have slapped a 2.5 percent tax on gross sales above $25 million for certain Oregon corporations, was rebuffed in last week's election.
Voters in only two of Oregon's 36 counties supported Measure 97, and we bet you can identify the two: Multnomah and Benton, where the measure squeaked through, 52 percent to 48 percent. In Multnomah County, it passed, 57 percent to 43 percent.
The measure failed in every other Oregon county. In Linn County, 72 percent of the electorate voted "no."
Had the measure passed, it would have generated about $3 billion in revenue a year, and supporters said the money would have gone to health care, K-12 education and senior services.
Now, though, legislators will gather next year to face a $1.4 billion shortfall in the two-year budget cycle that begins July 2017.
And it gets worse: Sooner or later, they'll have to come up with the cash to pay for the high school dropout programs that voters approved in Measure 98. The other measures voters approved last week at least have funding sources they'll take the cash from lottery revenue, money that in some cases had been earmarked for economic development.
(We remain troubled, by the way, by our increasing willingness to budget the state's revenue through the initiative process; the end result will be to thoroughly hogtie the people in the best position to consider all of the state's priorities and to write a budget that takes all of those into account. But we'll return to that topic another time.)
There is a little bit of good budgetary news: The state currently is on the "boom" side of its notoriously steep boom-or-bust cycle. We'll get another look at the budget outlook for the state on Wednesday, when the state Office of Economic Analysis issues its latest revenue forecast. It might help, but no one expects the additional tax revenue to fill the $1.4 billion gap required for the state to maintain its current services and programs through 2019.
The thumping that Measure 97 took statewide will make it harder for legislators to entertain notions of tax increases; early signs are that Gov. Kate Brown will not include any of those in the budget she submits on Dec. 1. She has said, however, that the budget would include "a number of heartbreaking cuts."
But this is not the time to walk away from the hard work required to overhaul the state's tax system and to deal with the issues that are driving big increases in expenses, notably the state's Public Employees Retirement System.
We'd start by taking another look at a proposal floated last year by Beaverton Sen. Mark Hass, who pitched a plan to replace Oregon's corporate income tax with a new commercial activity tax. Hass said at the time the proposal might raise $500 million a year. It could be a starting point for fresh discussion.
We'd take another hard look at the some of the PERS ideas floated by legislators such as Sens. Betsy Johnson and Tim Knopp and Rep. Dan Rayfield.
Finally, it could be that Oregon taxpayers have voted the way they have in part because they truly want to see a smaller state government. They might be fine with some of the cuts Brown has in mind, but the first step is for her to spell out, as clearly as possible, what exactly that entails. (mm)
Ready to chow down?
Here are three Corvallis food challenges that residents can belly up to: China Blues Lucky Sevens, Roxys Dawg Pack and Tommys Beaver Buster Breakfast.
For China Blue assistant manager and server Terry Yeung, the Lucky Sevens meal makes good business sense and is great publicity.
It does draw people in, Yeung said, adding that Oregon State University students were most willing to test their stomachs superpowers.
Bill Enwright, owner of Tommys 4th Street Bar & Grill, said that eating challenges are a novelty, and people like to watch them. But they're no easy feat.
Everybodys got a friend who thinks he could eat anything, like, he could eat a horse. Usually, they find out they cant, he added.
Tommys and China Blue started offering their challenge meals in 2007, when the television show Man V. Food regularly highlighted such offerings. (Tommys was set to be profiled by the show until a fire temporarily closed the business in 2009, Enwright said.)
Since the television show has been off the air, the popularity of the Beaver Buster Breakfast has waned somewhat, Enwright said.
We were doing quite a few of them every week. Now, its kind of one of those deals where you can go a month and nobody tries it, and then in a week, six people try it, he added.
The challenges:
China Blues Lucky Sevens challenge includes more than seven pounds of different Asian chicken dishes, which must be consumed in less than an hour.
The winner gets not only a picture on the restaurants wall of fame but a cash jackpot, which currently stands at $800.
An extra $100 is added to the prize each month that there is no winner. The largest jackpot the business has given away is $1,600. (The winner still has to pay for the $27.99 meal, however.)
If a challenger doesnt finish, Its a good family sharing tray, Yeung said.
China Blue is at 2307 N.W. Ninth St. For more information, call 541-757-8088 or go to www.chinabluerestaurant.com.
Roxys Dawg Pack challenge features one of each specialty dog on the menu for a total of 4.5 pounds of food. Those who can eat the entire challenge in one hour get refunded the $39 cost and get displayed on a wall of fame, said Maggie Stout, an employee at the business.
We only get a few people a year who actually do it, she added.
Corvallis residents or OSU students who beat the top time on the board get a $100 prize.
Roxy Dawgs is at 1425 N.W. Monroe St. For more information, call 541-207-3351 or go to www.roxydawgs.com.
Tommys Beaver Buster Breakfast includes 7.5 pounds of omelets, pancakes, breakfast meats, biscuits and gravy and more. And the meal is served on a pizza pan.
I figured out what a typical family of five would have for breakfast, Enwright said.
Challengers have an hour to eat the breakfast, and those who finish get the meal for free as well as a spot on the wall of fame there.
Youll get your photo taken whether you finish or not, and the wall of shame at the business has far more pictures.
Since 2007, there have been only seven "studs" and hundreds of "duds."
Contestants also get a T-shirt whether they finish or not. The Beaver Buster Breakfast costs $24.99.
Tommy's 4th Street Bar & Grill, 350 S.W. Fourth St., can be contacted at 541-754-7622.
An Iraq veteran and Peace Leadership Director with the Nuclear Age Peace will speak at the Whiteside Theatre Tuesday night.
Paul Chappell, a West Point graduate and author of five books, will speak about war and peace and ways society can move forward in troubled times.
The event, at 7 p.m. at 361 S.W. Madison Ave., is free and open to the public.
His talk will be followed by a discussion with four panelists: Donald Nisbett, commanding officer, with the Oregon State University Navy ROTC; Nana Osei-Kofi, director of the Difference, Power, and Discrimination program at OSU; Ann Mbacke community consultant with Linn-Benton Health Equity Alliance and the California Ethnic Disparities in Health Coalition; and Joseph Orosco, OSU co-director of the Annares Project for Alternative Futures and a philosophy professor.
Turkey bingo, an event that raises money for Philomath Middle Schools sixth-grade outdoor school program, will run from 5-8 p.m. Friday in Philomath High Schools auditorium.
Turkeys, prizes, silent auction, food and beverages will all be part of the event. Bingo starts at 5:30 p.m. The PHS foods program plans to prepare traditional bingo food plus a limited number of turkey dinners.
Violent attack in Cologne : Homeless man set on fire
Cologne Police were unable to save a burning homeless man by the Rhine on Sunday morning. The incident has caused concern amongst Colognes homeless.
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On Sunday afternoon nothing remained of the tragedy that must have played out under the Cologne Hohenzollern Bridge in the early hours of Sunday except a pair of disposable gloves used by the emergency services and a black mark on the ground.
According to police, a 29-year-old homeless man suffered a violent death here. Police said the perpetrator or perpetrators then set the mattress on which the man was lying on fire.
The police themselves discovered the burning man on Sunday morning at around 1.30am in the immediate vicinity of the Rhine promenade and the Cologne Philharmonic Hall. Officers from the additional forces put in place to patrol the Old Town, particularly at weekends, after the horrific events of last New Year, noticed the fire and hurried under the bridge.
They extinguished the flames and called the fire brigade. An emergency doctor confirmed the death of the 29-year-old.
The Cologne police immediately set up a murder squad. The victims body was examined during the night by forensics. Police said the outcome of the post-mortem was that the man died from external influences.
Remembrance Day : Mayor Sridharan urges solidarity
Bonn At a Remembrance Day service in Bonn, the Mayor asks people to show solidarity to migrants as victims of todays conflicts.
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The World Wars are history, but memorials like the war cemetery in Lommel, Belgium, ensure young people like Tim Florian Hildenbrandt will never forget their consequences. In a war cemetery you become aware that a person lies beneath every cross, said the pupil from the Marie-Kahle secondary school on Sunday at a memorial event for the national Remembrance Day at the Nordfriedhof (North Cemetery). The student had visited Lommel with his classmates and described his impressions in a speech. Fellow pupil Maximilian Maus remembered the courage of Marie Kahles, who helped Jewish neighbours during the Nazi era and had to flee Germany. Lena Minze and Katharina von Schmude spoke of the concept of Remembrance Day. Remembrance means we will never forget you, they said. We want to learn from the past, and summon the courage never to let it happen again.
Lord Mayor Ashok Sridharan reminded people: There is no alternative to peace. We must stand up for it, especially as Germany witnesses the consequences of war, violence and hunger through migrants today. They have endured sorrow and lost family members. Through this, Remembrance Day unfortunately has a completely new relevance. Sridharan said their need should not be prolonged through rejection. Lets greet the people who have come to us with an open mind and Rhineland composure.
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Protecting the worlds oceans an important goal of Germanys climate diplomacy
The worlds oceans are vital to our survival. They regulate the global climate and are a source of food and income for billions of people. Only a very small part of the seas enjoys legal protection, however. Our diplomats are working in New York right now to change this state of affairs.
What is Paytm Nearby feature
Paytm, just after the demonetization of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 notes in India has launched the Nearby' feature. This option allows its users to easily locate merchants who accept Paytm thereby helping those who are running low on cash.
How do I use it
Using it is a pretty straight-forward affair. All you have to do is to open the Paytm app or website and then look for the closest merchant in your vicinity under the new Nearby option. This way you can purchase food, goods or other essential items by using the wallet instead of hard cash.
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200,000 merchants already support this feature
Currently, according to the company, there are 200,000 merchants listed under the Nearby feature and 800,000 more merchants will be added in short time. So, locating the vendor shouldn't be a big problem, at least not as big as standing in line for hours to know that the ATM is out of cash.
Users can also Add Cash
Along with helping the users locate the nearest vendor, the feature also allows its users to Add Cash' by pointing the nearest branches of Axis and ICICI banks to load cash into their Paytm Wallets.
Paytm sees 200% rise in app downloads
Following the ban of Rs. 500 and 1000 notes in the country, Paytm has announced that it recorded an increase in traffic by 435% with the increase in app downloads by 200% which all resulted in a 250% increase in overall transactions.
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Rs. 500, Rs. 1000 Ban Effect: Paytm Creates Record with 5 Million Transactions per Day News oi -Prajith Paytm is hugely benefiting from the demonetisation of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 notes.
It appears as if the demonetization of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 notes is turning out to be great for the mobile payment platform, Paytm. The company has announced that it has touched 5 million transactions per day and is on its way to process over 24,000 crores.
The sudden lift in the transactions can be attributed to the infamous ban of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 notes in India. As a result, people opted for mobile payments instead of credit and debit cards and hence the uplift.
SEE ALSO: Exchange Your Old Notes With the Help of This New Facebook Messenger Bot
The country's Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently announced the demonetisation of Rs. 500, Rs. 1,000 notes. And ever since this measure was brought into existence, it's been chaos all over the country.
Indian citizens have been expressing their anger for the sudden implantation of this act without a proper plan.
SEE ALSO: Reliance Jio SIM Common Problems: How to Escalate Complaints
The company further announced that it has witnessed a 700% lift in traffic with a 1000% increase in the amount of money being added to the Paytm Wallet. Additionally, it has reported an increase of 300% in app downloads.
Kiran Vasireddy, Senior VP for Paytm has stated that "I am very excited to announce that Indian consumers are now using Paytm in more scenarios than ever before. Owing to the overwhelming response from customers and merchants alike, we have set bolder targets in merchant acquisition, and are aiming to target 5 million merchants by the end of the financial year."
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Metal Body!
This has become much of a normal thing with the smartphones releasing these days. The posted images suggest that the upcoming Nokia smartphone will feature metal chassis with Nokia branding on the bottom.
Dual Cameras?
As stated earlier, the phone will feature a metal body and it also has two holes on the rear panel. The interesting part is, one hole is for the camera and the other is for LED flash, however, the hole is quite larger than the normal flashlight hole. So, we presume that Nokia will launch a phone with dual camera considering the market.
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Resembles the iPhone
The posted images further show that the smartphone will look like exactly like the Apple iPhone 7 with the antenna bands on the top and bottom of the phone. It looks like Nokia is taking design cues from the Cupertino giant.
Will this Be the Nokia D1C?
Checking out the previous leaks, the news was all about a Nokia phone named as D1C'. Some rumors suggested that the Nokia D1C is not a smartphone, but a tablet. However, later on, it was again listed as a smartphone with a 5-inch or 5.5-inch display.
Can we Witness a Nokia Phone this Year?
We might! According to a Nokia executive, the company is planning to release three to four smartphones by the end of this year, however, later on, the focus was shifted to MWC 2017. So, we aren't sure about the release date as of now.
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Beware! Google Pixel Hacked in Less than a Minute News oi -Samden Sherpa Googles new flagship smartphone, which runs the latest Android 7.0 Nougat operating system, supposedly succumbed to a team of hackers in less than 60 seconds.
Not many days have passed since the launch of the Google Pixel smartphone, it seems the smartphone is not immune to hackers who want to infiltrate the device.
While Pixel is the company's flagship product and is being considered possibly as the best Android smartphone to date. Surprisingly, it has just been hacked in less than 60 seconds.
SEE ALSO: Real Life Images of Huawei Mate 9 Pro Leak Online: Dual-Curved Display Revealed
As it happened, at a security conference in Seoul on Friday, a team of white-hat hackers from China's Qihoo 360, an internet security company, hacked into Google's brand-new Pixel phone in less than a minute.
The hackers demonstrated an exploit that cracked open the Android and gave them full remote code execution capability as well as access to personal information such as messages, phone calls, contacts and photos.
Considerably, the team from Qihoo used a zero-day vulnerability to remotely install code on Google's sought after device. As a result, the exploit launched Google Play Store and then Google's mobile version of Chrome before displaying a messaged that read "Pwned by 360 Alpha Team."
The team also won a cash prize of $120,000 for the hack and now Google has to hit their drawing board in trying to figure out how to fix the security loophole.
The good news is that the Goggle Pixel users do not have to worry about their phones being remotely accessed or their data being stolen. Fortunately, the Qihoo team belonging to the white-hat hackers group was only interested in displaying their skills and cashing in on the bounty offered by Google.
SEE ALSO: 5 Most Commonly Asked Questions About WhatsApp on Quora and Their Answers
Pixel owners can relax as a patch should be released soon and their phones will no longer be vulnerable to this particular attack.
However, the hack just proves how critical it is for our phones to have a good security feature. It is even more frightening as these security vulnerabilities can give cybercriminals the authority to eavesdrop on victims, digitally pick their pockets, and utilize their devices in a wrongful manner
Additionally, with this level of apparent vulnerability for even the most high-end devices such as the Google Pixel itself, it pays to remember: always keep your devices updated and patched with the latest updates.
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Airtel, Vodafone and Idea m-wallet Transactions Increased by 50% Following Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 Ban News oi -Sneha After the ban of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 notes by Narendra Modi, Airtel, Vodafone and Idea's m-wallet services have experienced up to 50% growth in just 4 days.
After Narendra Modi decided to ban Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 Indian notes, the only rescue for people have been m-wallet online transactions. Almost everyone has been dependent on m-wallets rather than on cash, which in turn increased the transaction by up to 50% in just 4 days.
The ban on high denomination notes has highly profited the telecom industry, especially Airtel, Vodafone, and Idea Cellular.
SEE ALSO: Exchange Your Old Notes With the Help of This New Facebook Messenger Bot
Yes, the m-wallet transactions of these telcos have seen a major rise and have increased by up to 50% in the past 4 days ever since Narendra Modi's historic move to ban Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000, as reported by the Economic Times.
m-wallet Have Been a Saviour Soon after Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 notes were banned by the Modi, most people didn't have any cash with them. This lack of cash situation resulted in the increasing profit for the wallet service, as the m-wallet transaction has been the only option to continue the daily activities without being affected by the cash ban. Notes Ban Profited the Telcos The demonetization has been extremely profitable for the telecom companies, especially their wallet business including Airtel, Vodafone, and Ideas. The m-wallet business should see a minimum 40% to 50% growth in the next two quarters. Click Here for New Tablets Best Online Deals How Did The m-wallet Service Helped? After the ban of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 notes, the only way that enabled the mass led an unaffected life, are the wallet services. These wallet services are mainly offered by the telecom operators, which everyone can install on their smartphones as an app, which will help them pay utility bills, buy movie tickets, recharge mobiles, and top up DTH and other necessary services. Telcos Are Planning To Improve Their Wallet Service Telecom operators like that of Bharti Airtel said that growing wallet services would boost the growth of a digital payment ecosystem and in turn accelerate India's move to a cashless economy. As per ET, one of Airtel's official asserted that they are planning to add more merchants in order to boost the m-wallet usage levels and also has plans to roll out banking services very soon. Future of Wallet Services A study by an Assocham-RNCOS states that the value of mobile payment transactions in India will exceed by Rs. 2,000 trillion in FY22 from a shade over Rs 8 trillion in FY16. This will, in turn, boost cashless transactions with the increased use of digital wallets, debit and credit cards. Click Here for New Smartphones Best Online Deals
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Gulf Bridge International (GBI) has updated the North Route of its subsea cable through Iraq, improving route diversification and enhancing the resilience of internet connectivity to and from the region.
DAYTON, Ohio, Nov. 14, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CareSource, a nonprofit health plan, has named a new executive to its leadership core team. As Chief Consumer Officer, Tony Tomazic will drive the strategy for all CareSource consumer interactions. The new executive position was created at a time of rapid expansion for the health plan, which has grown to serve 1.5 million members in four states.
As CareSource continues to expand into more markets and launch new products, Tomazic is charged with building on the company's 27-year history of member-centric health coverage. He will lead the company's strategy to deliver an extraordinary experience while ensuring the health plan differentiates itself from competitors. In his role, Tomazic will oversee CareSource's Enterprise Marketing and Communications, Consumer Experience, Life Services, Consumer Advocacy Group and the CareSource Foundation.
Tomazic's background demonstrates a multifaceted depth of talent in science, arts, leadership and business. He has served as an executive leader in health care for both payer and provider organizations. Most recently, he was at St. Luke's Health System in Boise, Idaho, where he served as Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer, and oversaw marketing and innovation. At Humana in Louisville, Kentucky, Tomazic was Director of Consumer Innovation.
"Prominent throughout Tony's impressive career trajectory is his passion for delivering an unsurpassed consumer experience through high-impact, brand-building programs and services," said Pamela Morris, CareSource President and CEO.
Tomazic's extensive education includes a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Physics from Vanderbilt and Belmont University, attending the U.S. Naval Engineering School, a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art from Western Kentucky University and a Master of Humanities from Western Kentucky University.
About CareSource
CareSource is a nonprofit health plan nationally recognized for leading the managed care industry in providing member-centric health care coverage. Founded in 1989, CareSource is one of the nation's largest Medicaid managed care plans. Today, CareSource offers a lifetime of health coverage to more than 1.5 million members across four states including offerings on the Health Insurance Marketplace and Medicare Advantage plans.
Headquartered in Dayton, Ohio, CareSource has a workforce of 3,100 employees. CareSource is living its mission to make a lasting difference in its members' lives by improving their health and well-being. CareSource understands the challenges consumers face navigating the health system and works to put health care in reach for those it serves.
For more, visit caresource.com, follow @caresource on Twitter, or like CareSource on Facebook.
A photo accompanying this release is available at: http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=41879
WWIII? The US is threatening to shut down Russias electrical grid
For weeks, the US has threatened to retaliate against Russia for allegedly hacking John Podestas email. Russia has denied the attack, and concrete evidence of their involvement has yet to surface. Joe Biden has confirmed that the US has made Vladimir Putin aware that our government would respond to Russias supposed threat at its own discretion.
NBC News reported on top secret documents outlining the US governments plans to engage in cyber attacks against Russias civilian infrastructure. The documents claimed that the United States advanced cyber weapons are prepared to take down Russias entire power grid, including telecommunication networks and even the Kremlins own command systems.
These reports were initially spawned by concerns that Russia might launch cyber attacks on November 8th to disrupt our election. While that did not happen, and there no evidence that suggests Russia has any ill intentions planned for the future, The US is still on the offensive possibly trying to trigger World War 3.
While officials are assuring the media that if the US attacks, it will only be in response to an attack on us the Clinton camp has been very quick to label many of its misfortunes as a Russian plot. Any attack against Russia will likely be seen as an act of war. On November 7th, it was reported that the US had already penetrated Russias networks supposedly in an effort to be prepared for any election day attacks on the homeland.
It seems that the majority of the concerns regarded negative information about Hillary Clinton spreading across the internet and we all know how the powers that be bent over backwards to protect her image.
Russia now expects an explanation from US officials as to why there are reports indicating that Pentagon cyber-offensive specialists have hacked Russias power grids, telecommunications networks and the Kremlins command system. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said, If no official reaction from the American administration follows, it would mean state cyber-terrorism exists in the US. If the threats of the attack, which were published by the US media, are carried out, Moscow would be justified in charging Washington.
Its disturbing to see that NBC would report on the US penetration of crucial Russian infrastructure, knowing that possible repercussions may exist. Is this another step towards an ever-looming World War 3? Well see.
Sources:
GovtSlaves.info
Independant.co.uk
RT.com
VANCOUVER, November 14, 2016 - Cruz Capital Corp. (TSXV: CUZ) (OTC Pink: BKTPF) (FSE: BRO2) Further to the news release October 5, 2016 the Company has set the close of business on November 18, 2016 as the record date for the Forward Split and November 16, 2016 as the effective date of the Forward Split. Therefore, in order to receive the split, you must purchase and hold the shares as of close of market on November 15, 2016. The Forward Split Cruz is proposing is subject to acceptance by the TSX Venture Exchange.James Nelson, President of the Company states, "We are looking forward to the split occurring this week. We feel that the liquidity will increase substantially therefore providing more opportunities for the company to access additional capital and appeal to a larger group of investors. The ratio being proposed will be 3-1. For example, this means that if you are a shareholder of record of 10,000 shares you would then hold 30,000 shares upon completion and approval of the split. We feel that cobalt will be one of the most compelling sectors of 2017 and are pleased to be at the forefront of this growing sector. Cruz is fully funded for its current operations and we have been successful at closing one property sale to date, thus providing Cruz with increased capital with no dilution to the shareholders. We anticipate commencing operations shortly."Cruz is actively engaged in acquiring and developing Cobalt Assets Globally. Cruz has acquired numerous high grade cobalt assets located in North America. Seven cobalt projects are in Canada and one in Idaho. The goal of the company is to make Cruz the foremost cobalt project generator and developer on the TSX Venture Exchange. Management feels that cobalt is at the early stages of a significant bull market and we are pleased to be positioning Cruz at the forefront of this cycle.If you would like to be added to Cruz's email list please send an email to info@cruzcapitalcorp.com or twitter @CruzCapitalCorp
James Nelson, President
604.899.9150
www.cruzcapitalcorp.com
twitter @CruzCapitalCorp
This press release contains forward-looking information that involves various risks and uncertainties regarding future events. Such forward-looking information can include without limitation statements based on current expectations involving a number of risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance of Cruz, such as statements that Cruz: (i) intends to undertake a forward split of its common shares. There are numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and Cruz's plans and objectives to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information, including the TSXV not approving the forward split or delays caused in obtaining such approval. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. These and all subsequent written and oral forward-looking information are based on estimates and opinions of management on the dates they are made and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this notice. Except as required by law, Cruz does not intend to update these forward-looking statements.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release
SOURCE: Cruz Capital Corp.
VANCOUVER, BC--(Marketwired - November 14, 2016) - GoldQuest Mining Corp. (TSX VENTURE: GQC) (FRANKFURT: M1W) (BERLIN: M1W) ("GoldQuest" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the independent Pre-Feasibility Study ("PFS") on its 100% owned gold/copper Romero Project in the Dominican Republic was filed on SEDAR. A summary of this PFS was announced on 27 September 2016.
Highlights include:
Internal Rate of Return (IRR): Post-tax 28% (Pre-tax 39%)
Net Present Value (NPV) @ (5%): Post-tax $203 million (Pre-tax $317million)
All-in Sustaining Cost (AISC): Co-product basis $595/oz of Gold Equivalent
Capital Expenditure (Capex): Pre-production $158.6 million Sustaining incl. closure $92.3 million Total $ 250.9 million
Payback: 2.5 years
Maiden Probable Mineral Reserves of 7.03 million tonnes containing: 840,000 ounces of gold 980,000 ounces of silver 136 million pounds of copper
All figures are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated, with a DOP/USD exchange rate of 46:1 and metal price assumptions of $1,300/oz gold (Au), $20/oz silver (Ag) and $2.50/lb copper (Cu).
The PFS envisages a 2,800 tonnes per day ("tpd") project, encompassing a ramp-accessed underground mining operation employing a standard crush, grind and flotation process plant, located approximately 3 km south of the mine, producing a marketable copper concentrate product with significant gold and silver credits with an annual gold equivalent production averaging 109,000 ounces per year.
"We are pleased to file the full PFS and we look forward to aggressively advancing the project through permitting and final feasibility while we investigate expansion opportunities to improve," stated Bill Fisher, Executive Chairman of GoldQuest. " Our exploration drilling program is ongoing which provides further opportunities for growth beyond the mine plan in this PFS. Results will be released on an ongoing basis."
The PFS was prepared under the direction of JDS Energy & Mining Inc. ("JDS"), an industry-leading, international engineering firm, with extensive experience in both the construction and operation of mining projects. The study was supported by a team of internationally recognized technical firms.
The PFS mine plan includes 7.03 million tonnes grading 3.72 g/t Au, 0.88% Cu and 4.33 g/t Ag after accounting for dilution and mining recovery, with contained metal totaling 840,000 oz of gold, 135.9 million lbs Cu (61,700 tonnes) and 980,000 oz of silver. The waste rock mined totals 900,000 tonnes, with all waste rock returned underground as backfill by year five.
The mine design includes a 5.0 m x 4.5 m ramp access with production coming from a combination of 75% long-hole mining, 16% cut & fill mining and 9% from development. Mine scheduling targets the highest in-situ value areas of the deposit early in the mine life.
Off-site infrastructure for Romero is planned to include upgrading a 23.5 km access road connecting the site to the local, paved road network, with a 69 kV Transmission Line connecting to the national power grid. Concentrate is planned to be exported from the port of Puerto Viejo.
Mineral Reserve Estimate for Romero Project Mine Reserves Tonnes Au Ag Cu Au Eq (1) (Cut off $70NSR) (2) (g/t) (oz) (g/t) (oz) (%) (M lb) (g/t) (oz) Total Probable 7,031,000 3.72 840,000 4.33 980,000 0.88 136 4.9 1,117,000
1. Gold equivalent metal prices $1,300/oz Au, $20.00/oz Ag and $2.50/lb Cu 2. Cut-off NSR metal prices: Cu $2.50/lb Au $1,250/oz Ag $17.00/oz; Recovery: Cu-96.8 Au-71.7 Ag-54.4, Payable: Cu-96.5 Au-90.0 Ag-95.0, TCRC: $257.83/dmt, Cu concentrate 20%
The Probable Mineral Reserves are the economically minable portions of the Indicated Mineral Resource as demonstrated by this PFS
About GoldQuest
GoldQuest is a Canadian based mineral exploration company with projects in the Dominican Republic. GoldQuest is traded on the TSX-V under the symbol GQC and in Frankfurt/Berlin with symbol M1W.
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 press release.
Qualified Person
The scientific and technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Jeremy Niemi, Vice President of Exploration of GoldQuest and a Qualified Person under NI43-101. For further information with respect to the key assumptions, parameters and risks associated with the results of the PFS, the mineral resource estimate and other technical information with respect to the Romero project, please refer to the Technical Report available at www.sedar.com. The following qualified persons, as that term is defined in NI 43-101, have prepared or supervised the preparation of their relevant portions of the technical information in this news release and the related Technical Report to be filed:
The technical information contained in this news release is based upon information prepared by Mr. Makarenko, P. Eng. and Ms. Kelly McLeod, P. Eng. of JDS Energy & Mining Inc. with the exception of the Mineral Resources which were prepared by Mr. B. Terrence Hennessey, P.Geo., of Micon International Limited. Each of these individuals is a Qualified Persons and independent of GoldQuest as defined by NI 43-101.
Cautionary Language and Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release are "forward-looking" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward looking information. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the PFS, the results of the PFS, including the mine plan, the production schedule, infrastructure, capital and operating costs and financial analysis, opportunities to enhance the project economics, the advancement of Romero, the potential of the remaining resources and surrounding area, opportunities for growth beyond the mine plan, plans for Romero South, , the Company's plans and exploration programs, including the timing of such plans and programs, and the merits of the Company's mineral properties. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "envisages", "assumes", "recommends", "estimates", "projects", "potential", "indicate" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon the current belief, opinions and expectations of management that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and other contingencies. Many factors could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These factors include, among others, the assumptions and risks associated with the results of the PFS, timeliness and success of regulatory approvals, market prices, metal prices, availability of capital and financing, general economic, market or business conditions, as well as other risk factors set out under the heading "Risk and Uncertainties" in the Management's Discussion and Analysis dated December 31, 2015, which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein.
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - Nov 14, 2016) - Search Minerals Inc. (TSX VENTURE:SMY) ("Search" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the closing of the third and final tranche of its previously announced private placement. Further to its news releases dated September 13, 2016, October 11, 2016, October 26, 2016 and October 31, 2016, the Company has completed the third and final tranche of its non-brokered private placement (the "Offering") raising gross proceeds of $90,055 by the issuance of 1,286,500 units (the "Units") at $0.07 per Unit. Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Share") and one share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one additional common share in the capital of the Company (a "Warrant Share") at a price of $0.14 per Warrant Share for a period of 12 months from the closing of the Offering. Certain directors of the Company (the "Directors") purchased 315,000 Units under this tranche. With the completion of the three tranches, the Company has issued 12,276,500 Units for gross proceeds of $859,355. The expiry date for the Warrants issued in the three tranches of the Offering will be November 14, 2017.
Greg Andrews, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, states, "Search is very pleased to close this oversubscribed private placement. I would like to thank our current shareholders who participated and welcome our new shareholders. It is a testament to the quality of our project and management team that Search can attract capital to continue to advance the Critical Rare Earth District in Southeast Labrador (the "District"). With the expected conclusion of the pilot plant in the upcoming months, it is anticipated that Search will be able to provide interested refineries and new separation technology providers with actual mixed rare earth concentrate processed from the FOXTROT deposit. We look forward to the next phase of developing this District."
All securities issued pursuant to the Offering are subject to a statutory hold period of four months plus one day from the date of issuance, in accordance with applicable securities legislation.
The proceeds from the Offering will be used to complete environmental assessment applications and for general working capital requirements.
No finder's fees or commissions are payable in connection with the financing.
As the Directors are considered to be "related parties" of the Company, the issuance of Units to the Directors will be considered to be a "related party transaction" under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). All of the independent directors of the Company, acting in good faith, considered the transactions and have determined that the fair market value of the securities being issued to the Directors and the consideration being paid is reasonable. The Company intends to rely on the exemptions from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(a) or (b) of MI 61-101.
About Search Minerals Inc.
Led by a proven management team and board of directors, Search is focused on finding and developing resources within the emerging Port Hope Simpson Critical Rare Earth Element (CREE) District of SE Labrador. The Company controls a belt 70 km long and 8 km wide including its 100% interest in the FOXTROT Project which is road accessible and at tidewater. Exploration efforts have advanced "Deepwater Fox" and "Fox Meadow" as significant new CREE prospects very similar and in close proximity to the FOXTROT discovery. While the Company has identified more than 20 other prospects in the District, its primary objective remains development of FOXTROT by confirming proprietary processing technology at the pilot plant level (in progress) and delineation of prospects that will ensure competitive-low cost production beyond the 14-year mine life contemplated in the preliminary economic assessment of FOXTROT completed in April 2016. The FOXTROT Project has a low capital cost to bring the initial project into production ($152 M), a short payback period, and is scalable due to Search's proprietary processing technology.
All material information on the Company may be found on its website at www.searchminerals.ca and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com
About CREE's
Identified as Neodymium (Nd), Europium (Eu), Terbium (Tb), Dysprosium (Dy) and Yttrium (Y) this valuable subset of the complete series of seventeen rare earth elements is considered critical due to high demand and/or constrained domestic supply. Containing unique properties which enhance the performance of a range of innovative technologies, CREE's are essential components in the development of permanent magnets and a variety of other components used in renewable energy, green technology automobiles, medical devices, electronics and agricultural production.
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.
Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information.
This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, without limitation, statements relating the future operating or financial performance of the Company, are forward-looking statements.
Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or "should" occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to, among other things, the use of proceeds of the Offering, the timing of the expected conclusion of the pilot plant and the effect that the pilot plant will have on the Company. Actual future results may differ materially. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the respective parties, 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 and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation, the risk that the management of the Company may decide to use the proceeds of the Offering in a different way and the risk that the conclusion of the pilot plant is delayed. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these times. Except as required by law, Search does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law.
ALBION Carla A. Kaufman, 78, of Albion, passed away Saturday, Nov. 12, 2016, at the Good Samaritan Society-Albion.
Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 16, at Akron Presbyterian Church, rural Albion, with the Revs. Ray and Mary Avidano officiating. Interment will follow at Akron Bonanza Cemetery. Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Tuesday at Levander Funeral Home in Albion.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.levanderfuneralhome.com.
Carla Ann Kaufman was born on May 2, 1938, in Exeter to Alvin Printiss and Matie Neola (Chambers) Gentry. She was baptized and joined the Exeter Congregational Church on April 11, 1954. Carla attended Exeter Public School and graduated from there in 1956.
On March 5, 1956, Carla was united in marriage to Arthur Robert Bob Kaufman at Hebron. Following their marriage, they lived in Friend and together owned and operated a bar known as The Pub in the 1970s, later moving to Gretna in 1976. In 1984, they moved to Akron. Following Bobs passing in 1994, Carla continued to live at Akron until moving to Albion in the mid-1990s. For many years Carla also wrote a column in the weekend edition of The Columbus Telegram that many people enjoyed reading.
Carla enjoyed reading, sewing, quilting, writing and being a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She also enjoyed spending time at Ericson Lake at her cabin and fishing there. She was a member of the Albion Area Writers Club and Jolly Neighbors Club, and attended services at the Akron Presbyterian Church.
Carla is survived by her daughter, Vicki Luscomb of Albion; three grandchildren, Cody Luscomb of Elgin, Chanse Luscomb (Scarlett Booth) of Greeley and Casey (Michael) Dodds of Cedar Rapids; 12 great-grandchildren; one brother, Boyd (Jan) Gentry of North Platte; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Bob; daughter, Valerie Hoover; son, Bradley Kaufman; and five siblings.
And just like that, it was over. The two Oregonians who proposed a ballot measure asking Oregon to secede from the union have submitted paperwork to withdraw their petition.Christian Trejbal, one of the petitioners, said over the phone Friday that the response to the proposed measure was not what he had hoped."We have received death threats," said Trejbal, though he adds it wasn't just the negative feedback that made him and his co-petitioner Jennifer Rollins decided to withdraw. It was also some of the supporters.On Thursday night, he said, "we watched violence unfold on the streets.""That's not the kind of conversation we were trying have," he added, "so we're pulling it."Trejbal said the goal of the petition was to engage in a "high-minded conversation.""The political landscape right now is not amenable to the sort of conversation we were trying to have," he said.When asked if the people trying to intimidate and harass him win with the withdrawal of the petition, he said, "In some regard yeah, they win."But Trejbal also said that "once things settle down," he and Rollins plan to reassess the situation and see how else they can begin a civil civic conversation.Does this mean a dream of an independent west is dead? Maybe not."We did hear from a lot of people that were interested in the idea," Trejbal said. "If one of them takes up the mantle, I wish them luck.""If we learned one thing in this," he added, "it was just how easy it is to file an initiative petition and get the ball rolling."
Washington state lawmakers got a wake-up call. A tax incentive package theyd approved in 2013 for aerospace giant Boeing -- largely regarded as the most expensive incentive deal in history -- was actually on pace to surpass its estimated $8.7 billion cost. According to a Department of Revenue report, the deal, which extends to 2040, had already amounted to half a billion dollars in giveaways in just the first two years alone. In other words, the state was losing out on a whole lot more money than it had planned.And the kicker? Just months earlier, Boeing had announced plans to cut roughly 4,000 jobs in Washington. The year before, the company had transferred thousands more jobs out of the state.Some lawmakers were livid, openly contemplating whether the state should consider revoking the tax breaks if the company didnt add back some jobs. (Boeing, for its part, says it has continued to invest in the state, including $1 billion last year for a plant to build its new 777x aircraft.) But on the whole, response from officials and local media was measured. Most lawmakers said that in the bigger picture, the company was still good for Washington. While deeply disappointed in the job losses, state Sen. Reuven Carlyle, who has long pushed for greater transparency in the states incentive deals, says he still stands behind the Boeing agreement. The overall return on investment for taxpayers, including ensuring the future of aviation in our state, he says, is overwhelmingly strong by any standard or definition or criteria.The fact that Washington lawmakers can even have this conversation puts them at an advantage over most other states legislators. In the vast majority of states, officials simply do not know how well their tax incentives programs are working, or how much the deals are actually costing them. They dont have the data. Washington does, thanks to a tax preference auditing program, already one of the most robust in the nation, that was made even more transparent with the passage of a 2013 law. For the first time, lawmakers and citizens know just how much individual companies receive in tax benefits -- in other words, how much the state gives up in foregone tax revenue from them.Some other states have begun to take a harder look at the incentives they give out. Delaware has initiated a biennial tax preference evaluation. Louisiana takes a yearly look at key incentive programs. Most states, however, just havent reported that kind of information with any sort of regularity.But thats about to change. New nationwide accounting rules now require state and local governments to report all economic development incentives programs -- like Boeings -- as foregone tax revenue. Beginning with fiscal 2017s annual financial reports, the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) is requiring governments to report things like the total number and value of tax abatements that year, the criteria that businesses must meet, and how the government will get that money back if the goals arent achieved (commonly referred to as clawback provisions). Reporting the annual value of these abatements will clearly show their effect on governments bottom lines.In terms of transparency, the impact of this accounting shift will be seismic. One reason Washingtons discussion about tax breaks is so intense is because it has an incredibly high number of them compared to other states: nearly 700 separate incentives programs, up from just over 500 a decade ago. But every state has plenty of its own programs. One prominent estimate, calculated byin 2012, figured that state and local governments give up more than $80 billion annually in corporate tax breaks. While that estimate includes some measurements that the new accounting rules wont cover, the new regulations will still highlight billions of dollars that governments forego every year.Washington offers a sneak peek at the debate other states and localities could soon be having. State tax deals are public information, but they tend to trickle out in one-off reports and news headlines; most states dont collect or report on them annually in any kind of comprehensive way. And few places really review clawback provisions once a deal is in place. Now, lawmakers and citizens everywhere may find themselves engaged in the kinds of conversations that have taken place in Washington state for the past decade, an ongoing attempt to assess whether tax incentives are really worth what states think they are.to companies for decades, either to entice them to move there or convince them to stay. The tax breaks have long been public information, but the practice has gotten more scrutiny in recent years because of the growing number of eye-popping deals. Since 2008, the average number per year of deals valued at more than $75 million has doubled, compared to the previous decade, according to Good Jobs First, which follows corporate tax subsidies. Meanwhile, their aggregate annual cost has roughly doubled as well, averaging around $5 billion. In addition to the Boeing deal, the list includes Nevadas $1.25 billion tax break that wooed Tesla Motors in 2014 and an income tax break Oregon awarded to Nike in 2012 worth approximately $2 billion over 30 years.Critics debate whether these deals are good policy -- or whether they even really work. Some say theyre simply a Band-Aid approach to compensate for a government tax structure that isnt business-friendly. Others say that the incentives dont actually result in any net economic gain because corporations simply move around like pieces on a chess board. One example of that futility is in metropolitan Kansas City, which straddles Kansas and Missouri. The two states have long competed against each other to woo businesses across the state line -- AMC Theatres, Applebees and JP Morgan Retirement are just a few businesses that have crossed the border in recent years.But whether or not incentives are smart policy, its been difficult for most states to even say whether they achieved what they were supposed to, thanks to a lack of transparency and accountability on the deals. Greg LeRoy, Good Jobs Firsts executive director, says he often holds up Washington state as a good example of accountability, particularly for its history of annual reports on its tax incentive programs. Regular performance auditing came to Washington state in 2005 via a citizens ballot initiative directed at the state auditor's office. A year later, legislators decided to require similar audits of Washingtons tax preferences program and tasked the legislative audit office with the job. The legislative audit office typically evaluates about 25 tax incentive programs each year, looking at the stated purpose of the program and determining whether or not its meeting that goal. The office then presents its recommendation to a seven-member citizen commission, which hears public testimony on the audit. Both the audit office and the citizen commission present their findings to the legislature.This process has led to real changes in Olympia over the past decade. On 12 occasions, either the audit office or the citizen commission has recommended that legislators get rid of a certain tax break; on nine of those occasions, the lawmakers agreed. They also terminated two other programs and allowed an additional eight to expire based on audit findings. One of those was a high-tech research and development tax credit for capital investment and operating expenditures. The audit team, working with outside economists, analyzed how many new jobs could actually be attributed to the credits. The basic finding, says legislative auditor Keenan Konopaski, is this preference does create some jobs, but the job effect is not very big. It provided a solid piece of information, and I think that was enough to start a debate on, Is it worth the price tag?The audits were making a difference, but they also unearthed a consistent problem: Its hard to track the progress of a program when lawmakers dont outline what the intended effect is supposed to be. More than a third of the tax incentive audits simply recommended that lawmakers go back and clarify what it was a given program was supposed to achieve. In many cases we were pretty lazy in past years, rubber-stamping a companys request for a tax break, says Sen. Carlyle, who was the author of the states tax break transparency law. We didnt have vigor.For the audit process to have real teeth, it was clear to Carlyle that the state needed more transparency and specificity regarding its expectations of what companies where supposed to deliver in exchange for their tax breaks. He pushed through his 2013 bill, which requires lawmakers to outline what the expectations are for any future tax incentive program. It also meant, for the first time, that incentive data would be linked to specific companies, which led to the new disclosures about Boeing from the state Department of Revenue. Transparency categorically changes the conversation to, Whats the value and return on investment? Carlyle says. In other words: Does the damn thing work?Thats a question most states cant answer right now. In most places, once the ink is dry on tax deals, theyre rarely tracked with any consistency. Back in 2000, Good Jobs First released a report that looked at 122 audits of state economic development programs in 44 states. It found that auditors were having trouble doing their jobs because they are hampered by lack of data and objectives. Things have improved somewhat since then, says LeRoy, but its been a painstakingly slow process. Massachusetts, for example, has been particularly slow at revealing any information about the hundreds of millions of dollars it foregoes each year. For the last half-decade, Massachusetts State Auditor Suzanne Bump has tried -- so far unsuccessfully -- to get the authority to see business tax returns so she can audit the effectiveness of incentives programs.Now that governments will be required to report on their tax breaks with greater transparency, they could start to look more like Washington -- to a point. The new rule, known as GASB 77, doesnt require governments to analyze their tax programs, as Washington does. And states wont have to report tax giveaways on an individual company basis, as Washington has begun doing. And the rule doesnt necessarily mean that the lost tax revenue will have any bearing on budget discussions. Even Washington doesnt use the information in budgeting very often, except during times of shortfalls or funding crises.But GASB 77 does require states to tally up all their incentives as lost revenue. And it does call for reporting clawbacks: Officials must outline what their expectations are when a tax break is offered, and if those expectations arent met, the tax incentive may be revoked. Governments without a history of tax break transparency will likely have sticker shock when the full impact of their foregone tax revenue is released. States like Washington, says LeRoy, are better positioned. States where they have already had the big debates will perhaps be out the gate sooner, he says. They are certainly more prepared to take advantage when the data comes online.The full impact of these incentives will hit most governments beginning later next year when fiscal 2017 reports are released. But it will likely take a few years for the data to sink in, as it did in Washington. Its important to remember that the evolution in Olympia was a 10-year process: tax program audits that led to greater transparency, which led to more specific clawback provisions and expectations with company-specific reporting. That will likely be the pace for other states going forward, even those that want to move quickly on tax transparency.And none of this necessarily means states will come to see tax incentives as a bad idea. Indeed, as the conversation in Washington has matured over the past decade, many people have taken a more measured view of tax breaks. Rather than eyeing them suspiciously as giveaways, the release of regular information has allowed lawmakers -- and to some extent the public -- to see them as an investment.That, says GASB chair David A. Vaudt, is the whole point of requiring incentives reporting: to provide a truer, fuller picture of a governments financial health. Officials will be able to see tax breaks as not just one-offs, but as investments that impact their bottom line. Its also up to each government to decide what to do with the new information. But eventually, lawmakers everywhere could be asking the same questions those in Olympia are now: Was our investment worth the price?
President-elect Donald Trump named Indiana Gov. Mike Pence, the vice president-elect, to head their transition team, abruptly replacing New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie on Friday amid increasing signs that the effort to prepare the next White House is off to a rocky start.Trump also took the unusual step of naming his three oldest children and his son-in-law to top posts, moves certain to create potential conflicts of interest given that his attorney said Trump would put his children in charge of his assets while he is president.The transition team is always crucial, but especially so for the first president elected without experience in either government or the military. In addition to recruiting thousands of people to staff the White House, Cabinet agencies, embassies and other key government posts, the transition team needs to make sure Trump is briefed and prepared to take responsibility for the government and for implementing his policy initiatives as soon as he is inaugurated in just 76 days."You need to have your team on the field when the clock starts," said Max Stier, who heads the Partnership for Public Service, a Washington nonprofit that focuses on good-government practices. "This is not simply about achieving the policy promises; it's also about keeping us safe. Transitions are the point of maximum vulnerability for our nation."The effort is almost always well underway before a new president is elected, given the complexity and critical nature of the job, even as candidates know the work will be in vain if they are not chosen by the voters. Legislation passed in 2010, and updated in 2015, formalized much of the process for the transition from George W. Bush to Obama after the 2008 election, considered one of the smoothest in history. Both Trump and Hillary Clinton formed transition teams months ago that began working with the White House on first steps toward a potential handoff."One of the biggest dangers is that people will underestimate the scope," said former Utah Gov. Mike Leavitt, who ran Mitt Romney's transition team in 2012.That may have happened in Trump's case. Following Trump's meeting Thursday at the White House with the president, several Obama officials privately noted the extent to which Trump and his staff seemed unprepared to discuss basic aspects of staffing a new administration and daunted by the extent of the challenges ahead. A follow-up meeting between Trump aides and White House transition officials scheduled for Friday was canceled, a senior Obama aide said.To be sure, some of the observations made by White House officials could be colored by partisan differences or concern that Trump appears set to dismantle Obama's legacy achievements. Many had counted on a smoother transition to a Clinton administration in which top personnel would likely include former coworkers.Trump's decision to elevate Pence to run his transition team was one of several announced Friday.Pence has proved a loyal second to Trump, backing him when other establishment Republicans were critical and finding ways to explain some of his more controversial statements in public. A former member of the House, Pence also has close ties to House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) and other top Republicans on Capitol Hill.Christie's departure came after the recent convictions of two former top aides for creating a traffic jam leading to the George Washington Bridge to punish a mayor who would not endorse him to be reelected New Jersey governor."The mission of our team will be clear: Put together the most highly qualified group of successful leaders who will be able to implement our change agenda in Washington," Trump said. "Together, we will begin the urgent task of rebuilding this nation."Christie was retained as a vice chair of the team, along with several of Trump's most visible campaign advisors: Dr. Ben Carson, a former GOP primary rival; former House Speaker Newt Gingrich; retired Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn; former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani and Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.).Sessions, who may be the most hard-line member of the Senate on immigration, has long been among Trump's most influential advisors. Stephen Miller, a former top aide to Sessions, has been Trump's top policy advisor and will take a similar role in the transition team. Rick Dearborn, Sessions' chief of staff, was named as the executive director for the transition team.The team also includes Stephen K. Bannon, Trump's campaign chief who is on leave from heading the arch-conservative Breitbart News. Several prominent business people, including Peter Thiel, one of the only major figures in Silicon Valley to endorse Trump, were named, as was Pam Bondi, the Florida attorney general who solicited and accepted a $25,000 campaign donation from Trump's family foundation in 2013, four days after Bondi said her office was considering joining a New York state probe of Trump University.Rep. Devin Nunes, the Tulare Republican who leads the House Select Intelligence Committee, was also given a top spot. He could be a key bridge for Trump and the intelligence community, which has been reluctant to rally behind Trump.Trump's children and son-in-law, Jared Kushner, who guided him throughout the campaign, appear to have retained their influence in an official capacity. Kushner's presence at the White House on Thursday drew notice from Obama's staff when he asked, as they toured the West Wing, how many of the individuals there would remain into the next administration. Nearly all will depart along with the president.Briefing reporters Friday about the president's trip next week to Greece, Germany and Peru, Ben Rhodes, Obama's deputy national security advisor, repeatedly referred to the imperative of fully educating the incoming administration about the major foreign policy issues Trump will face."The main focus of the conversation [between Trump and Obama] ... was determining how to make the best use of this transition period to fully brief up the president-elect and his team," he said. "There's a great deal of complexity."Trump's spokespeople did not respond to calls and emails asking about his preparation.Passages on Trump's transition website, GreatAgain.gov, were copied from the site of the Center for Presidential Transition, a nonprofit that had consulted with both campaigns about the transition, Politico reported."It's in everybody's interest to have a good transition," said Martha Kumar, the director of the White House Transition Project. "We're living in a world of great vulnerability. You can't afford to not prepare well."
Joining other cities around the country, Chicago is pledging to remain a sanctuary city for undocumented immigrants, an act of defiance in the face of Donald Trumps past promise to cut off those cities from federal funding.In sanctuary cities, local law enforcement officials arent required to alert U.S. Immigration and Customs authorities about the immigration status of individuals with whom they come in contact.On Monday, Chicago's elected officials, including Mayor Rahm Emanuel, are expected to hold a news conference to formally discuss how the city will retain its sanctuary status. Aldermen are expected to call on Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner to pressure Trump to back off his vow to interfere with funding.Across the country and in Chicago and Illinois ... young men and women [are] very distraught about this, Chicago Alderman Danny Solis told POLITICO Illinois on Sunday.Solis is among those planning to attend the news conference with Emanuel. "Theres some people, though I disagree with them, but I have some respect for Paul Ryan, Reince Priebus," Solis said, referring to the House speaker and the RNC chairman who will serve as Trump's chief of staff. "Im hoping that those guys have much more influence on Trump and what needs to be done not only on his first 100 days, but in his term."
Amid a national push for greater police accountability, voters in several major cities have approved measures to create or strengthen civilian oversight of law enforcement.The trend reflects growing public demand for independent reviews of misconduct claims after deadly police encounters in cities such as Ferguson, Missouri, Baltimore and New York spotlighted police use-of-force and interaction with minorities.Voters in New Orleans, Honolulu, Miami and San Francisco passed plans Tuesday to bolster existing civilian oversight programs. In Oakland, California, voters created a powerful civilian-run police commission to investigate problems within the department reeling from a sex scandal involving several officers.Denver voters added provisions to the city charter to protect the existing independent monitor system. The measure makes it impossible for officials to cut the position without another public vote.
On Friday, in the morning, at the Shrine of Remembrance, Ann Street, Brisbane, His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC and Mrs Kaye de Jersey attended and laid the first wreath at the 2016 Remembrance Day Ceremony.
Following, at Government House, the Governor received the Honourable Peter Wellington MP, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Queensland; Mr Neil Laurie, Clerk of the Queensland Parliament; and Mr Michael Watkin, Sergeant-at-Arms of the Queensland Parliament, for the presentation of bills for Assent.
Following, at Government House: the Governor and Mrs Kaye de Jersey welcomed the Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk MP, Premier of Queensland, who presented to the Governor and Mrs de Jersey her proposed appointments to the Ministry; the Governor officiated at a formal ceremony for the swearing-in of 2 Ministers of the State and 1 member of the Executive Council of Queensland; the Governor presided at a special meeting of the Executive Council and then officiated at a formal ceremony for the appointment of two Assistant Ministers; and then, the Governor, with Mrs de Jersey, hosted a reception in honour of the Palaszczuk Ministry.
In the evening, at the Queensland Club, Air Commodore Mark Gower OAM, Official Secretary, attended the annual Queensland Club Remembrance Day Dinner and delivered the Remembrance Day address. At the Governors request, Air Commodore Gowers speech may be read here.
On Saturday, in the morning, at Government House, His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC received His Excellency Dr Janos Ader, President of the Republic of Hungary; His Excellency Dr Attila Gruber, Ambassador of the Republic of Hungary to Australia; and Dr Maria Haszonicsne Adam, Director-General of the Office of the President.
In the evening, at the Concert Hall, Queensland Performing Arts Centre, the Governor and Mrs Kaye de Jersey attended Opera Queenslands performance of Kiss me, Kate.
On Sunday, in the evening, His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC and Mrs Kaye de Jersey attended Evening Eucharist at St Johns Anglican Cathedral, Brisbane.
Description
GIS 14 November, 2016 : The Hotline 139, dedicated to domestic violence, is now toll free so as to enable victims of domestic violence to seek assistance even when their telephone have run out of credit or have zero balance.
The Minister of Gender Equality, Child Development and Family Welfare, Mrs Marie-Aurore Perraud, made the announcement in Port Louis on Friday 11 November 2016 during a press conference to present the calendar of activities in the context of the International Day Against Violence Against Women, commemorated on 25 November annually. The hotline 139 has been operational on a 24 hr basis and as a paid service since 2007.
She commended the telephone operators for their support regarding the free telephone service for victims of domestic violence and stressed that people calling the toll free number will be provided prompt and timely assistance by officers of the Ministry. She added that a poster and sticker campaign will be launched to inform people about the toll-free hotline 139.
Regarding the slogan retained for this years commemoration - Aret Violans Domestik (Stop domestic violence), the Minister stated that it was chosen because of the increase in the number of cases of domestic violence in Mauritius. She pointed out that prior to the launching of the campaign, several initiatives against domestic violence have been taken including the proclamation of the Protection from Domestic Violence (Amendment) Act on 1st September 2016, and sensitisation programmes on the new provisions of the Act held in women empowerment centres across the country.
She underlined the leading role that religious leaders can play in addressing domestic violence, and announced that she would meet them to discuss on the way faith communities can fight domestic violence. We are also working with authorities from Reunion Island to set up an Observatory for gender-based domestic violence, she said.
Mrs Perraud stressed that the calendar of activities elaborated by the Ministry in collaboration with the private sector and the civil society to commemorate the International Day Against Violence Against Women aims at raising awareness of the population on the necessity of not condoning or even tolerating domestic violence.
Calendar of activities
The activities comprise the coming into operation of the Domestic Violence Information System (DOVIS) on 16 November 2016. DOVIS is a web-based computer system for registration of reported cases of domestic violence that will be used as a tool to monitor and assess record, as well as generate specific reports on such cases.
They also include a colloquium for Magistrates on Domestic Violence: The Justice System on 25 November 2016; a National Video Clip Competition on the theme Aret Violans Domestik in collaboration with the Mauritius Film Development Corporation from 14 November to 21 November 2016, and the broadcasting of the winning clip on the MBC/TV from 25 November to 10 December 2016; a training session for journalists on media coverage of domestic violence; and the screening of a short film on domestic violence.
STAMFORD A Greenwich woman and a New Canaan teen won the Miss Connecticut USA and Miss Connecticut Teen USA crowns this weekend at the Stamford Marriott Hotel and Day Spa.
Olga Litvinenko, 26, a Greenwich resident and graduate of Syracuse University who runs her own marketing firm, was named Miss Connecticut USA. Lana Coffey, 18, of New Canaan, captured the Miss Connecticut Teen USA crown. Litvinenko was crowned Miss Connecticut Teen USA in 2007 while a junior at Greenwich High School.
Fotolia / McClatchy-Tribune News Service
The Connecticut Department of Public Health joins with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in observing the ninth annual Get Smart About Antibiotics Week from Nov. 14 to 20. During this week, participants will raise awareness of the threat of antibiotic resistance and emphasize the importance of appropriate antibiotic use across all types of health care settings. Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria change in a way that reduces the effectiveness of antibiotics and is a serious threat to Connecticut residents.
Antibiotics are critical for medical care and save thousands of lives every year in Connecticut, said DPH Commissioner Dr. Raul Pino in a news release. It would be a great human tragedy and public health disaster if this precious resource could no longer save lives. That is why DPH, healthcare providers, and facilities across the state are joining the fight against antibiotic resistance. The best way to avoid antibiotic resistance is to strictly follow doctors recommendations on how to properly use antibiotics. I urge Connecticut residents follow their doctors prescriptions and to learn more about the proper way to use antibiotics.
The $510,000 Crista Freeman had raised from angel investors served her well: The money helped her Phin & Phebes artisanal ice cream reach stores around New York City. After four years, she was ready to expand -- but could barely afford to do it. Once she buys ingredients, it can take up to six months for her customers to finally pay her. When the product gets manufactured, she says, Im burning through cash.
Sure, she could have applied for a loan from a traditional online lender, but those credit lines average less than $250,000. She needed more. And she didnt have time to deal with securing a bank loan.
Related: 4 Things to Consider Before Investing in Other Entrepreneurs
Thats where P2Binvestor helped. Its an online lender that puts a modern twist on factoring, which well get into later. In this case, P2Binvestor gave Freeman a $500,000 credit line. With that money, heading into the spring, she could aggressively grow her business and not worry about cash flow. Heres the scoop on this service.
Who its for
P2Binvestor offers a $250,000 to $10 million revolving line of credit to food manufacturers, wholesalers, fashion retailers, subscription software companies and other U.S. business-to-business startups. To be eligible, startups must be at least a year old and have at least $500,000 in annual revenue or $50,000 in monthly revenue. P2Binvestor will then look at collateral -- such as inventory, receivables and ongoing customer contracts -- to determine the size of the loan.
The idea is to make getting $1 million as easy as getting $50,000, says Krista Morgan, P2Binvestors cofounder and CEO. Since launching in 2014, the Denver-based lender has extended $300 million in credit to 82 companies. The average loan is $750,000.
How it works
A quick lesson on factoring, which has a history going back centuries. Traditionally, factoring isnt technically a loan; rather, a company in need of money (say, one that makes ice cream) sells its customers orders (from the people who want ice cream) to a financial institution at a discount (say, 90 cents for every $1 worth of orders). That way, the ice cream company has the money to fulfill the orders, and the finance company is responsible for actually collecting on the invoices.
Related: Use These Strategies to Get Paid More Quickly
P2Binvestor works in a similar way, in that it evaluates a companys invoices. But rather than buy up the orders, it extends lines of credit. P2Binvestors annualized rates range from 12 to 18 percent, decreasing as a company becomes a safer credit risk. Borrowers sign a one-year agreement on the credit line, with no penalty for early repayment if the borrower opens a new credit line with a bank.
How it makes scale happen
Besides covering operating costs and payroll in a pinch, the credit line will help Phin & Phebes sell a projected $2 million worth of ice cream this year to more than 2,000 stores in the U.S. -- including Whole Foods, Safeway and Walmart. Weve been able to grow revenue this year by around 170 percent, Freeman says. Now, that's cool.
Related:
This Maker Aggressively Expanded Her Business Without a Traditional Loan. Here's How.
All About Sports And Start-Ups
Before You Pitch Investors, Ask Yourself These 4 Questions
Copyright 2016 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved
Drinks at 304 OReilly, a bar where the tenets of traditional mixology are more or less ignored. Photo: Noah Friedman-Rudovsky
In Cuba recently, sitting in the back of a teal Chevrolet Bel Air that was older than my parents, I asked a cabbie where I could go to see the magic of Havana, something tourists and especially the American tourists who now arrive in the communist island nation in increasing numbers dont typically see. His eyes lit up and he said one name, OReilly, with such reverence and mysticism that he might as well have said mogwai or El Dorado.
On a street named after an Irish-born inspector general of infantry for the Spanish Empire, the small bar called 304 OReilly as is communist style, the name is the address is staging something of a drinking revolution in Vieja, Havanas Old Town neighborhood. To start, it is a gin bar, extraordinary in a nation devoutly fixated on its rich heritage of rum, and on being the birthplace of the daiquiri and the mojito. But 304 OReilly flouts convention in another way: It is an ambitious 21st-century bar that more or less ignores all tenets of mixology, and not just because its specialty cocktail prices hover around $8.
There are no $43 martinis infused with San Francisco fog here. Instead, the bars owners have freed themselves from mixologys trying exactitude. Thats not to say the drinks here are whatever sloshes into the nearest glass. There is care, and dedication. 304 OReillys approach might more accurately be called whimsology, mixologys impressionist cousin, less bothered with ounces and jiggers, more taken with moxie and mojo. In fact, to be true to its Latino roots, the approach is best described as duendology, an approach based on duende, an untranslatable concept that roughly means supernatural enchantment. In Havana in particular, it plays on the Cuban aesthetic of making do with whats available and finding beauty in the disarray.
You want to know who developed our cocktails? asks Wilson Hernandez, a 28-year-old civil engineer turned head bartender. The customers. Id introduce them to something and theyd like it, but say, If you did this or that it would be better. The power is with the customers. We are not gods here. He laughs, running his hands through his Afro ponytail. Youre not in a temple. Youre in a bar.
A collection of drinks at 304 OReilly. Photo: Noah Friedman-Rudovsky
The garnish game is strong. Photo: Noah Friedman-Rudovsky
The quanto basta approach harkens to a freer-wheeling time when Americas best-loved bartender was Isaac Washington on The Love Boat. These are not drinks you pour into precious little cocktail coupes. The Habana Londres is a London-inspired gin-and-tonic that resembles a single-serving scorpion bowl, with Beefeater, tonic, and a wedge of lime, of course, as well as Maraschino and a dollop of blue frozen daiquiri. The Jimmy Hendricks contains cucumber and rose petals. The Sweet Jabali has cherry and cinnamon. Even a plain gin-and-tonic often arrives with vanilla beans and rose petals. And all of the drinks are garnished with limes whose half-peeled rinds entwine the cocktail in a manner that suggests they seem to have somehow read the Kama Sutra.
The menu also includes a Jager-made mojito, a Kentucky mojito (with Jim Beam), and something called a Muevelo Muevelo literally Move It Move It a mint-pineapple sorbet served atop chunky watermelon juice in the manner of a Miami Vice, albeit virgin. A simple frozen-mango daiquiri might come sprinkled with maraschino-infused pineapple chunks.
The bar was started in 2013 born, really, because the place feels that alive by two brothers, Julio Cesar and Jose Carlo Imperatori, 42 and 40 years old, respectively. Jose Carlo, who resembles Zach Galifianakis if he played the Dude, had been toiling at a government bar and seized the opportunity when Cuba began allowing private management. Julio, taller, leaner, and with sunglasses perennially sitting atop his shaved head, typically travels the country sourcing produce when hes not glad-handing regulars. Business boomed, and they were able to open a bigger satellite branch, El Del Frente (The One Out Front), across the street last December. The anomalous, puckish nature is not limited to the actual bar, either. When asked what is in their Jedi salad the chalkboard menu has a Darth Vader mask affixed atop it a waitress replied that its mostly lettuce and tomatoes with some carrots and cucumbers; when I tell her that it sounds ordinary, and ask what makes the mix so Jedi, she simply answers, Its Jedi if you believe its Jedi.
Outside 304 OReilly in Havana. Photo: Noah Friedman-Rudovsky
The goal is more important than the math. Its half luck, says Enrique Suarez, the 28-year-old heap of dimples and muscles whos usually manning the bar, of the drink-making process. But mostly witchcraft, he adds, pulling out a green-and-yellow beaded bracelet from his pocket, symbolizing Olofi, the king god in the local Yoruba pantheon.
Asked if he has a cocktail of his own design or is working on one, he flashes a look of genuine confusion. Why would I make my own drink? he asks. A drink named for me? Or dictated by me? Every cocktail I make has my name on it. You will choose it again at another place and it will not be the same because it will not be mine. Everything I make here is mine. And you will like it because you have never had your cocktail the way I make it.
Look,Julio begins, mixology is great for chemists. But its science. Its exact. Its math. He pauses for a moment. And, really, its cold, mechanical. Why would I want this place to be a factory when what it needs to be is an oasis?
That approach might be gaining fans beyond the island. As much as buzz can be built in Havana Yelp and Zagat are not exactly de rigeur yet I spotted an uneasy sign on my last visit: a sticker in OReillys doorway flaunting its top choice decree by Lianorg, a kind of Chinese Zagat. The revolution is spreading, comrades.
Making drinks at the bar. Photo: Noah Friedman-Rudovsky
The shirodashi pork ramen: pork belly marinated in bulgogi sauce, chicken broth with dashi and miso, seasonal greens, scallions, wakame, menma and half a tea-stained egg. Photo: Konstantin Sergeyev
New York is theres no question about it saturated with great ramen. But that hasnt stopped city slurpers from itching for an outpost of Londons obsessed-over noodle chain Wagamama, especially since it landed in Boston nearly a decade ago. It enjoys an unusually sterling reputation for a pan-Asian noodle chain and its fans include Dave Chang, who credits a meal at one of the London locations with inspiring him to become a chef. Now, New Yorkers wishes will be granted this Wednesday, when Wagamama opens its first location here. And this is just the beginning, as a second East Village restaurant has been in the works since summer.
Naturally, its going to be big. The restaurant, which overlooks Madison Square Park, occupies a sprawling three-floor space. It features the trademark Wagamama aesthetic that influenced Chang: an open kitchen, communal tables, and stools. As for the food, the fusion-y menu is straight-up 90s retro, sort of like the best possible version of that suburban Japanese restaurant you went to with your parents. The ramen here isnt yuzu-shoyu with chicken chashu, but instead inspired by Indo-Chinese chili chicken or served with pork belly marinated in Korean bulgogi sauce. Some dishes are more straightforward, like pork-and-water-chestnut gyoza, but that border-crossing style is well-represented across the menu. Its seen in sides like steamed buns with Korean barbecue beef, teppanyaki dishes like teriyaki soba, grilled duck donburi, and green curry made with coconut and lemongrass.
The chili squid is fried squid dusted with shichimi, a traditional mix of seven spices, and served with a chile-cilantro dipping sauce. Photo: Konstantin Sergeyev
Firecracker curry: snow peas, red and green peppers, onions, and hot red chiles served with white rice, sesame seeds, scallions, shichimi, and a lime wedge. Photo: Konstantin Sergeyev
The banana katsu is fried panko-coated banana with a scoop of salted-caramel ice cream and caramel sauce. Photo: Konstantin Sergeyev
Drinks include the Lemongrass Collins, made with gin, soda, sugar, and fresh lemon juice. Photo: Konstantin Sergeyev
See the influence? Photo: Konstantin Sergeyev
Photo: Konstantin Sergeyev
Wagamama, 210 Fifth Ave., nr. E. 26th St.; 212-920-6233
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Harlow is a former New Town in Essex with a population of 86,000. Located in the upper Stort Valley, it was built in the decades after the Second World War to ease overcrowding and London and provide homes for people bombed out during the Blitz. It includes Britain's first pedestrian precinct and first modern residential tower block, The Lawn. Old Harlow, the historic part of the town, was mentioned in the Domesday Book. David and Victoria Beckham's former home, Rowneybury House, nicknamed 'Beckingham Palace', is nearby.
09:44, 30 OCT 2022
Millions in political donations fueled by matching bonuses at Boston law firm
by Andrea Estes and Viveca Novak, Open Secrets/Boston Globe, October 29, 2016
Jon Tester didnt come all the way from Montana for the scrambled eggs and bacon. The senator, virtually unknown in Boston, was in a conference room at the Thornton Law Firm that June morning to cash in at one of the most reliable stops on the Democratic fundraising circuit, a law firm that pours millions into the coffers of the party and its politicians.
Tester, a massive, jovial man who raises livestock on his family farm, was more compelling than many of their other breakfast guests, all of them political candidates the firm hoped would defend the interests of trial attorneys. But the drill was basically the same. The personal injury lawyers listened politely for a few minutes, then returned to their offices. And Tester walked away with $26,400 in checks.
But a striking thing happened the day Tester visited in 2010. Partner David C. Strouss received a payment from the firm labeled as a bonus that exactly equaled his $2,400 contribution to Testers campaign, the maximum allowed. A few days later, partner Garrett Bradley until recently the House assistant majority leader in the Massachusetts legislature got a bonus, too, exactly matching his $2,400 gift to Tester.
This pattern of payments contributions offset by bonus payments was commonplace at Thornton, according to a review of law firm records by the Spotlight Team and the Center for Responsive Politics, a Washington-based non-profit that tracks campaign finance data.
From 2010 through 2014, Strouss and Bradley along with founding partner Michael Thornton and his wife donated nearly $1.6 million to Democratic party fundraising committees and a parade of politicians from Senate minority leader Harry Reid of Nevada to Hawaii gubernatorial candidate David Ige to Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts. Over the same span, the lawyers received $1.4 million listed as bonuses in Thornton Law Firm records; more than 280 of the contributions precisely matched bonuses that were paid within 10 days.
CSC Spreadsheet: Thornton Lawyers gave to $13,000 to David Ige, $4,000 to Shan Tsutsui, and $21,000 to Neil Abercrombie between 2010 and 2014Total Contributions $38,000.
That payback system, which involved other partners as well, helped make Thornton the 11th-ranked law firm nationally for political contributions in 2014, according to data analyzed by the Center, even though the firm is not among the 100 biggest in Massachusetts, much less the U.S.
Thornton, through a spokesman, said its donation reimbursement program was reviewed by outside lawyers and complied with applicable laws. Campaign finance experts said that without reviewing the firms records, they cannot say the payback system breaks the law, but it raises numerous red flags.
Thats because reimbursing people for their political donations is generally illegal, several experts said. When political donors are repaid for their donations, it can conceal the real source of contributions, and enable the unnamed source of the funds to exceed state and federal contribution limits. And in some states Massachusetts among them political donations to state candidates from corporations and partnerships such as Thornton Law Firm are flatly illegal.
Reimbursing donors is among the most serious campaign violations in the view of both the Federal Election Commission and the Department of Justice, said Daniel Petalas, an attorney who served as acting general counsel of the FEC until September.
Using straw donors to make contributions is illegal, said Larry Noble, general counsel of the Washington-based Campaign Legal Center and a former general counsel of the FEC. People can go and have gone to prison for this.
Thornton officials declined to comment, instead hiring a former federal prosecutor to respond to the Globes questions.
The ex-prosecutor, Brian Kelly, said that the bonuses should not have been called bonuses at all because they were paid from the lawyers own money. He said an accountant deducted the payments from their equity, or ownership, in the firm. When lawyers leave Thornton Law and cash in their equity, he said, their financial settlement with Thornton would be reduced by the amount of the bonuses.
Kelly provided a written statement from Michael Thornton saying that an error made internally led to the payments being called bonuses. Thornton said he changed the way they were labelled after several years in 2015 when he discovered the mistake.
Its obviously not a crime to make lots of donations to politicians and they certainly did that, said Kelly. But their donation program was vetted by prior counsel and an outside accountant and the firm made every effort to comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
However, campaign finance experts were skeptical about the system Kelly describes, saying it could allow partners to go years before repaying the firm for the bonuses. Regulators could view the bonuses as open-ended loans, they said, making them hidden and illegal contributions from the law firm.
I think they need to be very careful, said James Kahl, former deputy general counsel of the FEC. The big red flag is monies being advanced and the truing up doesnt happen for many years.
Kelly, who gave varying explanations of the reimbursement policy since first being asked about it in July, declined to provide a copy of a legal opinion that he said justified the repayment program. He also declined to say whether lawyers who left the firm were required to pay when the bonuses they received exceeded their equity in the firm.
But one thing is certain: The policy was so complicated that at least some lawyers at the firm didnt understand it, said former employees. They were just happy to get their money back.
***
Michael Thornton, a former Marine who served in Vietnam, made his name in the law by becoming a national leader in handling asbestos-related cases, especially those in which victims suffered mesothelioma, a rare but deadly cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Thornton lawyers have handled thousands of such cases, made millions, and even helped to underwrite research into mesothelioma.
But that pipeline of profits was threatened just over a decade ago when some leading politicians, including President George W. Bush, moved to limit damages in class action lawsuits and to allow the victims of asbestos exposure to file their claims for compensation directly to a national trust fund bypassing lawyers who typically receive a third of any award.
Thats when Thornton learned the power of political donations.
The firms partners contributed heavily to mostly Democratic politicians who, they hoped, would thwart efforts to create the trust fund.
If it passed, the firm would close, said a former employee who feared retaliation if his name were used. Hence the beginning of the political donations.
They gave more and more each year, from $257,300 to federal candidates and the Democratic party in the 2003-2004 election cycle to nearly $1.1 million a decade later, according to the Center quadrupling their contributions.
Thornton is a small firm usually 10 or fewer equity partners but the lawyers punch well above their weight in political fundraising. In the two year election cycle ending in 2014, for example, lawyers at Thornton Naumes, as the firm was then called, donated more than much larger multi-national firms such as Greenberg Traurig a Miami-based law firm that claims 38 offices and 2,000 attorneys.
Over the course of three election cycles 2010, 2012 and 2014 Thornton partners contributed more than $3.4 million to candidates and the party nationwide, especially Democratic Senate candidates who opposed overhauling the asbestos litigation system.
The partners have been major benefactors to the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, the partys Senate fundraising arm. From 2007 through the middle of this year, Thornton partners gave the DSCC, which has higher contribution limits than do candidates, more than $1.5 million.
Just one Republican senator has collected contributions from Thorntons lawyers. Lindsey Graham, an idiosyncratic South Carolinian and former trial lawyer himself, received $62,800 over the last decade. Graham helped peel away enough GOP support in the Senate to ensure the trust fund bills death on Valentines Day, 2006, according to former Senate aides.
Thorntons lawyers were especially generous to Vice President Joe Biden, one of Washingtons strongest advocates for trial lawyers, contributing more than $78,000 to his campaigns from 2003 to 2008.
During President Obama and Bidens reelection campaign in 2012, Michael Thornton hosted a fundraiser for the Obama Victory Fund at his house in Cambridge where Biden was the guest of honor. Some of the biggest donors some Thornton partners gave $20,000 were escorted into a private room and offered the chance to be photographed with Biden, said someone who was there. Thornton records show the lawyers were reimbursed for those donations.
Vice President Joe Biden was a favorite of Michael Thorntons. Biden collected $78,000 for his campaigns from 2003 through 2008. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)
Thornton declined to speak to the Globe and the Center, but he has been vocal about his support for Biden, who once chaired the Senate Judiciary Committee and twice helped block legislation that would have established the asbestos trust fund.
Sen. Biden has been a trial-lawyer advocate for many terms in the Senate, Thornton was quoted as saying in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch in 2008. We represent victims, we think its in the best interest of our clients if they have an opportunity to go to court. Sen. Biden agrees.
Once Michael Thorntons willingness to raise large amounts of money became known among lawyers and politicians, the American Association for Justice, the trial lawyers Washington-based lobbying group, increasingly turned to the firms lawyers for help, even for little known candidates running in states far from Boston.
At first it happened every three or four months, and then it was sometimes three or four times each month, even though the threat of asbestos litigation reform had faded, said the former employee who requested anonymity.
As the number of fundraisers started piling up, partners began to grouse. Even though Thornton called the contributions voluntary, partners felt pressured to give, according to the former employee. After all, Michael Thornton was the firms lead partner with enormous sway over what the other partners were paid.
So, according to three former employees, Thornton Law Firm adopted the donation reimbursement system.
Bonus checks that were reviewed by the Globe made clear that the payments were for political donations, with notations giving the name of the politician the partner had donated to.
The Globe and the Center for Responsive Politics reviewed records covering payments to three senior partners Thornton, Bradley and Strouss who are among the top shareholders in the firm. Then, the Globe and the Center matched the bonuses against federal, state and local campaign records.
Campaign contribution and law firm records from 2010 through 2014 show that Thornton donated the most, and the firm gave him bonuses that matched not only his donations, but at least 33 made by his wife, Amy, who runs an investment fund. The couple donated just over $1 million between 2010 and 2014 and Thornton received $862,450 in off-setting bonuses.
Michael Thornton, through a spokesman, denied that the law firm reimbursed his wifes donations.
Bradley made donations of $340,535 and received almost as much in bonuses $339,000 over that period, the records shows.
David Strouss gave $205,150 over the five years and received almost the same amount in bonuses $197,150.
By donating as individuals, lawyers for the firm were able to collectively give far more to individual candidates in a single year than the firm could have donated directly under federal law.
Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York received $52,000 from Thornton partners over a 10-day period in 2013. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP)
Over a 10-day period in 2013, for example, Thornton partners gave $52,000 to Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York, a subcommittee chairman on the Senate Judiciary Committee 20 times as much as the $2,600 that the partnership itself could have donated. (Corporate contributions are illegal under federal law, but partnership contributions are not.)
In 2012, the lawyers gave Warren $42,200, 16 times as much as the firm could have given her directly.
Thornton lawyers also donated more than $260,000 to state and local politicians in Massachusetts from 2010 to 2014. If those donations were determined to have actually been made by the firm because the lawyers were reimbursed they would be illegal since political contributions from corporations or partnerships are prohibited in Massachusetts.
Theres no indication that any of the politicians who received Thornton donations knew anything about the law firms questionable reimbursement system.
***
The Federal Election Commission does allow partners in a law firm to donate to political campaigns, but only if the funds clearly come from the partners own money. According to FEC rules, a partnership can contribute on behalf of its partners, but then must promptly deduct the amount of the donation from the next profit sharing payments to the partners called partnership distributions.
Thats not what Thornton did.
Brian Kelly, Thorntons outside counsel, said the firms practice is legal because, at the end of each quarter, the firms accountant deducts the political donations from something called the capital account of each partner with the firm.
The capital account is a way for the accountant to keep track of the partners share of equity in the firm. The deductions from the capital account are on paper only, Kelly acknowledged. When partners leave the firm, they may be entitled to a payment from the capital account that Kelly says is reduced by the amount of reimbursements received.
But reimbursing partners out of their equity in the firm as Kelly said Thornton did is likely illegal, said Brett Kappel, a Washington D.C. lawyer who specializes in campaign finance.
If they were legitimate contributions, they should have been deducted from their partnership distributions, Kappel said.
Senior partner Bradley abruptly resigned his position as assistant majority leader in the state House of Representatives on June 27 after the Globe had begun asking questions about his firms business practices. His decision stunned colleagues, coming so late in the election cycle that there was no time to take his name off the November ballot.
Bradley explained at the time that Michael Thornton was retiring and he was being promoted to managing partner of his law firm. As a result, he wanted to focus on his legal work. Thornton is now chairman of the firm.
I wouldnt have the time to do this (legislative) job the way it should be done because of the promotion, Bradley explained to Statehouse News Service. Its bittersweet for me.
Some campaign finance experts say they expect Thorntons reimbursement system is likely to raise suspicions among regulators and law enforcement officials alike.
The use of the word bonus for these payments combined with the fact that they so closely matched the amounts and timing of the donations would certainly capture the attention of the general counsels office at the FEC and given how much was involved, the public integrity section at the Department of Justice, said Kappel, the Washington campaign finance lawyer.
The Globe and the Center could not find another law firm that used a similar reimbursement system Thornton itself stopped the reimbursements when the Globe and the Center began asking about it.
Ive been a partner at two law firms and have made many political donations, said Leonard Kesten, a partner at Brody, Hardoon, Perkins and Kesten in Boston, but Ive never seen anything like this. It seems very peculiar.
Meanwhile, in the Senate, measures to change the asbestos litigation system continue to pop up. Earlier this year, the Furthering Asbestos Claim Transparency Act passed the House, but ran into opposition from Schumer of New York, a top recipient of Thornton donations.
It died in committee.
---30---
CRP researchers Doug Weber and Alex Baumgart contributed to this story.
Content licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0 United States License by OpenSecrets.org
NY Post: Boston shadow donor scandal casts shadows on Democrats nationwide
OS: Hillary Clinton, senatorial candidates among politicians returning donations from Thornton Law (but no mention of Ige, Abercrombie, or Tsutsui)
One dead, seven injured in Albanian refinery blast
A large explosion and fire killed a worker and injured seven others at the ARMO refinery in Ballsh, southern Albania, on November 10. Police said a malfunctioning hydrogen valve caused the explosion, with pressure at the valve three times normal levels. The defect had been reported earlier but had not been repaired, local media sources claimed.
Stock image
The seven injured workers are being treated for severe burns, and the condition of two was described as life-threatening. Damage was estimated to be around $1 million, according to local news reports. Prosecutors were investigating "a failure to observe technical rules".
The Ballsh plant was reopened in September 2016 after a period of bankruptcy and closure. The refinery, with a capacity of one million tons per year, is now managed by an offshore company registered in the Virgin Islands.
tralian Sales and Promotions and its director Paul Ainsworth have been found to have breached sham contracting laws.The fundraising company hired a 26-year-old British backpacker on a 417 working holiday visa as a charity collector, even though they treated him as an independent contractor.This was despite them knowing the Fair Work Act required them to classify and pay him as an employee.Australian Sales and Promotions has held contracts with charity and not-for-profit organisations to conduct fundraising activities on their behalf.The company have now been penalised $100,000 in the Federal Circuit Court, while Ainsworth, the companys sole director and part-owner, has been penalised a further $24,000.The penalties are the result of legal action by the Fair Work Ombudsman who said the action sends a message about the seriousness of sham contracting.The backpacker ended up being underpaid $7853 in basic employment entitlements for four months of charity collecting work performed in 2013, mostly at Sydney shopping centres.Australian Sales and Promotions and Ainsworth told the charity collector he was an independent contractor operating his own business and required him to obtain an Australian Business Number (ABN) and invoice another company operated by Ainsworth (PMA Unit Pty Ltd) to receive payment.However, the charity collector had never operated a business before and had no sales experience and the company exercised a high degree of direction, supervision and control over his duties.The charity collector was paid on a commission basis, earning a daily rate as low as $50 to $67. As a casual employee, he was actually entitled to the minimum hourly rate and casual loadings.The charity collector ended up lodging a complaint, with the Fair Work Ombudsman investigating.However, the Fair Work Ombudsman commenced legal action because of the seriousness of the contraventions and because the company had clearly been put on notice not to misclassify employees as contractors.Judge Robert Cameron found that the company and Ainsworth had deliberately contravened the Fair Work Act.He added that it was their intention to enjoy the financial benefit of paying (the charity collector) as an independent contractor while also enjoying the power and authority of an employer in the control it exercised over him in the course of his work.Persons should understand that attempting to evade the minimum employment conditions provided by the Fair Work Act by contriving to make employees independent contractors can have serious financial consequences of an adverse kind, said Judge Cameron.
BY FRANK TAYLOR / Carolina Public Press
But as Carolina Public Press analyzed the results in Western North Carolina precincts, one divide emerged as more important than any of the rest: urban vs. small town and rural. That finding comes in part because the most readily accessible data was for geography. Components of other things, such as wealth, education and race, will have some overlap with this divide based on population density. But the divide is so pronounced for this geographic divide in county after county that its difficult to discount.
Even when Democrats carried or competed closely in urban centers, Republicans dominated by wider margins in more thinly populated outlying areas of smaller towns and rural communities. Only the Asheville/Woodfin/Black Mountain and Boone Democratic votes were strong enough to outnumber the Republican votes in their overall counties.
Another trend that emerged was the strength of the Democratic vote in college areas, including around Appalachian State, Western Carolina, the University of North Carolina at Asheville and Brevard College. This may correlate to a combination of liberal professors, young millennial students and ethnically diverse student and staff populations. Or it could be seen as voters further removed from educational institutions rejecting elite political ideals.
An exception to the rural/urban divide came in two counties with large Native American populations in rural precincts, where Clinton either led or was very competitive.
To better understand what happened throughout the region, CPP has broken down the counties into three population groups:
Three counties of 75,000+ population: Buncombe, Henderson and Burke;
Eight counties of 25,000 to 75,000 population: Rutherford, Haywood, Watauga, McDowell, Jackson, Macon, Transylvania and Cherokee;
Eight counties of less than 25,000 population: Madison, Polk, Avery, Mitchell, Yancey, Swain, Clay and Graham.
Limited information
Before examining the trends in each of these counties, an important caveat demands attention. The numbers available at this point for precinct-level analysis do not include early votes, mail-in absentees and provisional ballots. The totals for each county and the state do include early votes and mail-in absentees that arrived before Election Day. Late absentees and provisional ballots will be totaled later this week when the county boards of election canvass the results. Its due to those ballots that several other statewide races, including governor, remain too close to call.
In some other recent previous elections, the early vote leaned heavily Democratic because emphasis on the early vote has been an important party strategy. For the same reason, in some locations the Election Day vote might skew Republican. As a result, the precinct-level discussions that follow cannot take the early vote into account.
Its certainly possible that some precincts that currently appear to have gone narrowly for the Republican candidate actually went for the Democratic candidate, which will become clear some time later when the state and local election boards can assign those votes to precincts. Although it would run counter to recent election trends, its also equally possible that some precincts that narrowly went for the Democrat actually went for the Republican. So the analysis that follows is the based on the best information thats available, but is necessarily incomplete.
Counties with 75,000+ population
In Buncombe County, Hillary Clinton claimed a 54 percent majority of votes, thanks primarily to heavily Democratic Asheville, the regions largest city.
But this narrow majority was a strong showing without being the landslide she needed from urban counties to have been more competitive statewide. Clintons problem in Buncombe was that beyond Asheville, she carried few of the countys small-towns and rural precincts.
Clinton did have an edge in the western portion of Black Mountain and the town of Woodfin. But elsewhere Donald Trump had strong support, including the incorporated towns of Montreat, Weaverville and Biltmore Forest. Unincorporated communities like Candler, Enka, Leicester, Swannanoa, Barnardsville, Arden, Fairview and Avery Creek all went for Trump.
The demographics of those places dont tell a simple story. Some areas like Candler are home to many lower-income low-education white voters who were expected to back Trump. But Biltmore Forest, where the wealthy and highly educated voter pool didnt match up as clearly with the supposed Trump demographic, also went solidly for the Republican candidate.
While the overall outcome was very different in Western North Carolinas second-most populous county, Henderson, where Trump won more than 60 percent of the vote, the same divide between the Democratic core city and rural outlying areas applied.
Hendersonvilles precincts went for Clinton. But the rest of Henderson County was Trump country, from small towns like Laurel Park, Fletcher, Mills River, Flat Rock and Bat Cave, to the countys many unincorporated communities.
Burke County followed precisely the same script. Trump took 67 percent of the vote, but Clinton carried the precincts in the largest city, Morganton. In all other small towns and rural areas of Burke, Trump was dominant.
Counties with 25,000 to 75,000 population
Eight of the 19 counties in Western North Carolina have populations between 25,000 and 75,000, based on population estimates the U.S. Census Bureau released in September.
With one exception, these counties were favorable to Trump and undoubtedly contributed significantly to his statewide edge in North Carolina.
The largest in this group is Rutherford County, which is geographically unique, transitioning from rolling Piedmont in the southeast around Spindale, Ellenboro and Forest City to high foothills near Rutherfordton, Sunshine and Bostic, then rugged mountainous terrain along the eastern slope of the Blue Ridge further northwest near Lake Lure and Chimney Rock State Park. This geographical diversity equates to economic and social diversity, with agricultural areas, mill towns and resort communities all having distinct personalities. Rutherford County is also relatively ethnically diverse for WNC, with a more substantial black portion of its population than in many other counties. Republicans are only slightly more numerous than Democratic registered voters, though many unaffiliated voters may lean Republican.
Even so, Trump enjoyed a landslide in the Rutherford vote, claiming 72 percent to just under 25 percent for Clinton. While Trump carried every precinct, his support was weakest around Spindale, at about 54 percent and the Lake Lure/Chimney Rock area at about 60 percent.
Haywood County has just under 60,000 residents in terrain thats decidedly mountainous, with a mixed economy of industry, agriculture and tourism. Despite the lack of any substantial ethnic diversity, registered Democrats outnumber Republicans by a substantial amount in Haywood.
It didnt matter in the presidential contest, as Trump carried Haywood with more than 60 percent of the vote. Clinton carried only the Central Waynesville precinct, at the heart of the county seat.
Watauga County, home to Appalachian State University, was a bright spot for Democrats in Western North Carolina, with Clinton edging past trump by a few hundred votes. But she only claimed a 47.2 percent total to Trumps 45.7 percent in Watauga, doing little to make up his much stronger advantage through most of the region.
The urban/rural divide was as pronounced as ever in Watauga, with Clinton racking up modest victories in Boone precincts, but Trump scoring well in the less densely populated areas.
In McDowell County, Trump led Clinton by nearly 10,000 votes, comparable to President Obamas statewide margin of victory in 2008. Clinton received less than a quarter of the vote in McDowell and failed to carry any precincts. She was strongest in one central Marion precinct where Clinton and third-party candidates combined to deny the Republican an outright majority, though he still led with a 30-vote plurality.
Jackson County, home to Western Carolina University, went for Trump, though he emerged with just under 53 percent of the vote, less than in most of the regions other mid-sized counties. Unlike the rural-urban divide that appeared elsewhere, the educational center of Cullowhee was the strongest location for Clinton here, where she narrowly carried a majority of the precinct. While Trump led in other precincts, the outcome was closely contested in the countys northernmost area, which has a substantial Native American population.
More than two-thirds of Macon County voters chose Trump, who carried every precinct in the county along the states Southern border with Georgia. Clintons percentages were best in the county seat of Franklin, but even then she received less than a third of any precincts votes.
Although Trump carried Transylvania County, like neighboring Jackson the result was closer than in many other WNC counties, with the president-elect claiming 59 percent of the votes to about 37 percent for Clinton. The Democratic nominee carried a majority in three precincts in the largest town, Brevard, home to Brevard College, but she trailed badly in most other parts of the county.
Trump was especially dominant in Cherokee County where he had nearly 77 percent of the vote, while Clinton claimed only about 20 percent. Trumps support fell below 70 percent only in the countys solitary appreciable population center, the small town of Murphy.
Counties below 25,000 population
In the regions eight smallest counties, with virtually no sizable towns, the Trump vote was pervasive. These victories may be small because the populations dont add up to much in comparison to the margins in bigger counties. But when Clinton carried a large county like Buncombe by 19,000 votes with a 54 percent to 40 percent age, the margins in these small counties where Trump generally won more than 60 to 78 percent of the vote, start to add up and surpass Clintons weaker margins in the areas where she was strongest.
Trump carried all precincts in Madison County with 60 percent of the countywide vote. However, he led Clinton by just a slim margin in the precinct around Hot Springs. The only other precinct where Clinton did better than 40 percent of the vote was in the largest town, Mars Hill, home to Mars Hill University.
Trump had nearly 62 percent of the vote in Polk County, on the South Carolina line. However, the town of Tryon went narrowly for Clinton.
Yancey County on the Tennessee line saw Trump claim 64 percent to just 32 percent for Clinton. However, the countys southernmost precinct around the town of Burnsville gave Trump only a narrow majority of about 54 percent.
Just to the northeast in Avery County, Trump was much more dominant with about 76 percent of the vote, claiming more than 90 percent in several precincts along the state line. Only in three precincts near Newland did Clinton score better than 20 percent.
While the peak of Mt. Mitchell is actually in Yancey County, one of Trumps highest points may have come in nearby Mitchell County where he garnered almost 78 percent of the vote versus less than 20 percent for Clinton. She performed moderately better in the southern portions of the county, but wasnt competitive anywhere in Mitchell.
Swain County, home to the majority of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, is unique among western counties as the only one with a substantial ethnic minority Native Americans make up about 29 percent of the population. Although Trump won the county easily with about 58 percent of the vote, Clinton led in the eastern precinct around Cherokee, with a 48 percent plurality.
Clay County may not have many voters, but they overwhelmingly backed Trump, who scored about 74 percent of the vote to just under 23 percent for Clinton. Clintons best showing was in the precinct that includes the southern portion of Hayesville, but even there she could claim only about 27 percent of the vote.
Graham is the regions smallest, but it was the most heavily lopsided in favor of any candidate, with Trump taking almost 79 percent of the vote to just 18 percent for Clinton, who did not break 20 percent in any precincts.
Third parties
Some early analysis of the vote in WNC speculated that Libertarian candidate Gary Johnson might pick up some sizable vote totals from voters who had previously backed libertarian-leaning Republicans, like Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul. That didnt happen. Johnson did relatively well in Watauga County with more than 4 percent of the vote and nearly that level of support in two counties with large Native American populations, Swain and Jackson. While still miniscule, that was well above the 2.7 percent support Johnson received statewide.
Green Party candidate Jill Stein didnt make the ballot in North Carolina and was forced to run as a write-in, potentially blunting her ability to grab votes in places like Buncombe, which has been a haven of green activism in the Southeast.
The usual plethora of write-in protest votes also could be expected, with perpetual also-ran Mickey Mouse vying with Harambe the gorilla and others vying for throw-away votes in what was billed as one of the most consequential votes in U.S. history.
Why the West mattered
Most of North Carolinas voters do not reside in the 19 counties that CPP defines as Western North Carolina, but in the other 81 counties, especially in the great Piedmont Crescent of densely populated counties that stretches along Interstate 85 from Charlotte to Greensboro to Raleigh.
Those populous areas mostly went blue, or bluish-purple. Rural suburban counties like Cabarrus, Alamance and Lee went for Trump, but not by the large margins seen in the West. Coastal areas, like the mountains, were red. The heavily African American counties in the northeastern corner of the state and along the central southern border remained their traditional blue.
Trump won the state with a roughly 177,000 vote advantage. About half of that margin came from the 19 WNC counties, with the rest coming from the rural interior counties or those along the coast.
The Republican candidates ability to mobilize pockets of rural voters into a winning statewide majority, as well as the Democratic candidates inability to excite sufficient numbers of urban voters, shaped the outcome in this election, one in which North Carolina was a pivotal state.
Whether one loves or hates the outcome, the mountains loomed large and refused to be forgotten.
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By Bob Garver
Of all the surefire blockbusters of 2016, Trolls was probably the one I was dreading the most. If youre a parent whose kids are this films target audience, youve probably been dreading it too. This is a film designed to revive an annoyingly cute toy line that we all thought we had left in the past. And the early trailers didnt help: nauseatingly colorful little goofs with their trademark wispy hair dancing up a storm. Every adult knows that the most sickening part of animated kids movies, even the good ones, is the inevitable dance party at the end. The bad news is that Trolls is every bit the buffet of cinematic junk food you think it is. The good news is that you go numb to it pretty quickly, and then you can appreciate the things the movie does right.
Princess Poppy (Anna Kendrick) throws a big obnoxious party to celebrate the 20th anniversary of her father (Jeffrey Tambor) saving the entire troll race from being eaten by their mortal enemy, the hideous Bergens. An unhappy troll named Branch (Justin Timberlake) warns her that if the party is too bright and loud, it will lead the remaining Bergens right to them. Poppy brushes him off, throws the party, and watches as her friends are carried off by the Bergens royal chef (Christine Baranski), who was banished for letting the trolls escape 20 years ago and is now bent on redemption and revenge.
The airheaded Poppy has at least inherited her fathers determination to never leave a troll behind, so she sets out on a mission to save her friends. But she cant do it alone, so she drags survivalist Branch along to help her. The two dont get along at first, because shes an optimist and hes a pessimist. Also, she loves to sing and he hates it. Everybody who actually thinks that the character voiced by Justin Timberlake wont love singing by the movies end, please do a backflip now.
Poppy and Branch hatch a plan to save the captured trolls by helping a lowly Bergen kitchen maid named Bridget (Zooey Deschanel) woo her crush, the miserable King Gristle (Christopher Mintz-Plasse), who is perpetually unhappy because hes never gotten to eat a troll. Maybe if Poppy and Branch can help Bridget and Gristle fall in love, they wont need to eat trolls to be happy and then everybody can be happy without anybody getting eaten. Everybody, that is, except the poor chef who was just as troll-hungry as everyone else in the kingdom and had to be homeless for 20 years. The movie cant think of an outcome where she can be happy, so it just treats her as a villain unworthy of happiness.
The story is entirely predictable, from the celebrations to the hardships to the supposed twists to the gradual relationship between Poppy and Branch. Along the way there are musical numbers and hair gags aplenty. Some of the songs are fun (I laughed heartily when Poppy took a request literally), but this movie cant come up with nearly as many interesting things to do with hair as say, Tangled. Much more imaginative is the danger that Poppy and Branch face on their way to the Bergen kingdom. A wide variety of creatures want to eat the trolls, but theyre so greedy that they end up eating each other. This leads to some delightfully dark humor, as the filmmakers probably wanted to reward themselves for putting up with so much cutesiness in other scenes.
Trolls is mostly kiddie stuff, though adults will be able to appreciate a handful of scenes. Im not saying it ever gets to that next level where adults can watch it by themselves and find value in it, but it shows occasional flashes of brilliance. And Im not above saying that a tiny bit of the constant happiness is infectious.
Two Stars out of Five.
Trolls is rated PG for some mild rude humor. Its running time is 92 minutes.
Contact Bob Garver at [email protected]. And check out more reviews at the newly-updated www.bobatthemovies.com.
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(Bloomberg) Hedge funds and some of the worlds biggest emerging-market bond investors are girding for a fight with Mozambique and its other creditors. The countrys attempt to reach a restructuring agreement by the end of the year suffered a blow when a group of five investors, who hold 60 percent of its $727 million of Eurobonds, said the notes should be treated differently from loans to two state companies and talks couldnt begin until an International Monetary Fund program was in place.
To read this article:
Sebastian Tynkkynen, the chairperson of the Finns Party Youth, has been charged with ethnic agitation and breach of the sanctity of religion for publishing a series of inflammatory writings on Facebook.
Tynkkynen in his writings is considered to have disparaged, slandered and threatened Muslims and offended them by defaming and disgracing several holy aspects of Islam, according to a press release from the Office of the Prosecutor General.
The outspoken politician, who was relieved of his duties as deputy chairperson for lashing out at his party leadership roughly a year ago, has denied the accusations. He appeared on a live stream broadcast on Friday, accusing the legal system of not treating all religions equally and claiming that the only religion that can be criticised and even disparaged is Christianity.
Toiviainen, meanwhile, reminds that the freedom of speech does not afford policy-makers participating in the public debate the right to employ hate speech against an entire religious group, as by doing so they breed contempt and religious intolerance-based hatred.
The Finns Party is no stranger to charges brought against its members. Teuvo Hakkarainen (PS), a second-term Member of Parliament from Viitasaari, was charged with ethnic agitation earlier this month for a writing published on Facebook, while Terhi Kiemunki (PS), a Councillor for the City of Tampere, is facing the same charge for a blog published earlier this year.
Aleksi Teivainen HT
Photo: Roni Rekomaa Lehtikuva
Source: Uusi Suomi
A leading homelessness campaigner has said that Dubliners who lived in the tenements were afforded more dignity than families forced to share a hotel room.
Sr Stanislaus Kennedy, who has worked with the homeless community for decades, said something must be done urgently to stem the flow of people into homelessness.
Awful
"It's not that they are in a B&B. They have one room and there might be three, four or five children. They have no place to play, no place to cook," she told the Herald.
"They don't mix with others. It isn't like having a room in a hotel. It's awful.
Housing Minister Simon Coveney has consistently said the Government's new policies on homelessness will need time to work, but Sr Stan said more urgent action is needed.
"Really, they have to think about something immediately to stop the flow," she said.
"Secondly, they need an immediate response to people, to provide them with a decent place to stay where they can live with dignity.
"It's about rent, really, and something needs to be done about that. Otherwise, the numbers will just increase and increase.
"A year ago I was here saying this. This is the job of the politicians - that's what we elect them for.
"I hear people say, 'Sure, aren't they grand', but it's not like you or I taking a room in a hotel. It's totally different.
"Go back to the worst days of the tenements where you had all of the families living in one building.
"At least they had the dignity of a community. They knew each other, they grew up with each other.
Community
"This is totally different. They are in rooms separated from other people. It's quite different."
Sr Stan was speaking at the launch of Focus Ireland's Christmas Appeal, as the charity revealed its teams have helped 230 families and almost 450 children in Dublin to secure a home this year with the help of the homeless executive.
Donations to the charity can be made at focusireland.ie or by calling 1850 204 205.
The new image, in Banskys distinctive style, on a mural
Has famous underground artist Banksy paid a visit to a Dublin community for his latest installation?
Kilbarrack community centre members who work with young people certainly think so.
The Kilbarrack Coast Community Programme (KCCP) is a youth project with support from the HSE and Department of Social Protection.
The group works with young adults with drug, alcohol and gambling addictions and provides after-school programmes for younger children.
Disappointed
However, when access to an overflow car park beside the centre was recently blocked off by a newly-installed metal fence, the children were denied a playground.
Manager and psychotherapist at KCCP, Tiernan Williams, said the young people were disappointed when they saw the fence.
"There was always an agreement that we would have access (to the playground)," Mr Williams said.
In response, young people at the centre prepared a short film entitled Kilbarrack's Ode To Banksy, which was uploaded to YouTube.
"The lads appealed to Bansky as they liked his social conscience," said Mr Williams.
Shortly after making their appeal, a new image in the distinctive style of Banksy appeared on a recent mural to commemorate the Easter Rising 100 years ago.
Nobody has claimed responsibility, but many believe it to be the work of the activist.
Mural
"We don't know if it's him but it's definitely in his style.
"Local security men (at the adjacent shopping centre) saw three guys in balaclavas the night before (it appeared)," Mr Williams said.
The new work on the mural has since been transferred inside the community centre but Mr Willams said the team had not yet decided what to do with it.
"We might put it up for sale, we're still undecided.
"It could be used to raise funds for a proper playground," he said.
Elidas and wife Elvyra with Chance and Bucci who were saved by brave firemen Picture: Gerry Mooney
Two pet dogs survived a blaze that destroyed a first-floor apartment, thanks to firefighters.
Yorkshire terriers Chance and Bucci owe their lives to Dublin Fire Brigade and the vets who treated them for free at the Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital and University College Dublin (UCD).
Owners Elidas Kekys (36), an IT worker, and his wife Elvyra Kekiene (32), a store manager, expressed their gratitude to everyone who helped save them.
The incident happened at the couple's apartment in Waterville, Blanchardstown, when they took their daughter, Ieva (3), for a doctor's appointment, leaving a dehumidifier on.
"We came back about two hours later and the whole apartment was on fire. It was an electrical fire, we think, started by a dehumidifier fault," said Kekys.
"I told a fireman that the dogs were inside, but they couldn't find them.
"I said to try looking under the bed. I have a friend who's a fireman and he said that's where dogs hide.
"They went back and they found them under the bed. They were both unconscious but still breathing."
After getting the dogs out, the firefighters gave them oxygen before they were transferred to the veterinary hospital in Coolmine.
"The dogs were not in good shape," said Mr Kekys.
Bucci made a good recovery after two days, but Chance was still fighting for his life.
The dogs were transferred to UCD where they received specialist care and are now home with the family, who have moved to Sandymount.
Bravery
Mr Kekys said they wanted to thank the firefighters for their bravery and the staff at Hillcrest and UCD for an "extraordinary job".
He said vet Fiona O'Leary cared for the dogs at her home on the first night and, singled out Stephanie Larkin and Mark Coulter for special praise.
"We felt we had to keep those dogs alive as they were all the family had left after losing their home," said Ms O'Leary.
"Luckily, all five of them from the family are still around."
Ibrahims next hearing will be on his 21st birthday
Taoiseach Enda Kenny says he will again speak to the Egyptian president over the African country's continued detention of Dublin student Ibrahim Halawa.
It will be the latest in a series of contacts in the case between Mr Kenny and President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. Mr Kenny has twice raised the case in face-to-face meetings with el-Sisi and has also written to him over delays in Halawa's trial, which was delayed again yesterday.
The case has been adjourned until December 13, Ibrahim's 21st birthday.
Disappointed
Mr Kenny said he was very disappointed at the 16th adjournment in the case and he said el-Sisi had told him that he could not interfere in Egypt's judicial process.
"He [el-Sisi] has said he can only use his presidential pardon powers once the case has been delivered on," said the Taoiseach.
He said the Government is also supporting an appeal for the student's deportation to Ireland under Egyptian law 140.
"I am concerned about this. It seems to be a case of a different issue every time there is a postponement of the case. We would like to see the case heard so that there can be a conclusion to it," said Mr Kenny.
"It is my intention to contact president el-Sisi again as a matter of urgency, probably in the next week."
Halawa was arrested in August 2013 at a protest in a mosque in Cairo. Egypt has denied claims he has been tortured. The case was adjourned at the weekend because some of the 493 co-accused were unable to appear in court.
The student's London-based barrister Katie O'Byrne said she wasn't surprised by the latest delay in the case.
Evidence
"It is not legitimate to hold a trial for 494 people in a mass trial and it is not legitimate to delay a case for three-and-a-half years," said the lawyer.
"We're not aware there is any evidence at all against our client, which underlines the point he cannot have a fair trial."
She told RTE news it is still unclear what specific charges Halawa faces because of the limited documents released by the Egyptian prosecutors.
Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan said he spoke to the Egyptian ambassador at the weekend to protest about the latest delay in the case.
Ireland's Ambassador to Egypt, Damien Cole, led an Embassy observer team at the hearing. Embassy officials have attended all hearings to date.
"Our understanding is that the trial has been adjourned until December 13 as a number of the defendants were not present in the court. This is linked to heightened security concerns in Cairo, following planned protests," said Mr Flanagan.
"Our priority remains to see this young man returned to Ireland and to his family as soon as possible.
"The Government will continue to use every possible opportunity to underline our concerns about this case to the Egyptian authorities, both bilaterally and with the EU and other partners."
Halawa has spent 1,184 days in prison. Amnesty International has declared him a prisoner of conscience based on its own eye-witness evidence "that he could not have carried out the acts he is accused of".
Acclaimed director Jim Sheridan said he is deeply saddened by the ongoing gangland feud between the Hutch and Kinahan gangs that has erupted in his old neighbourhood.
The 67-year-old is the eldest of seven siblings who grew up in a modest house on Seville Place in Dublin's north inner city.
Despite his success as Ireland's most prolific film maker - with six Oscar nominations to his credit for such films as My Left Foot, In The Name Of The Father, The Field and In America - Sheridan has never forgotten his roots.
Over the last year, the area has been blighted by an unprecedented wave of gangland violence.
Speaking to the Herald at the opening of the Dublin Arabic Film Festival - which he curated - on Friday night, Sheridan said he is still in touch with his old friends and neighbours from the area, whom he said are "all upset and scared to go out" following the spate of gangland murders in the area.
While he said his old stomping ground around Sheriff Street was always a bit of a war zone, he said he is dismayed by the gangs' brutality during the feud which has claimed 10 lives so far.
Fighting
"It's very upsetting but it's kind of about people who live outside Ireland and their interests are not in this country," he told the Herald.
"I think the people are fighting each other over territory outside of Ireland, drug control maybe, I don't know.
"But it's manifesting itself here and it's very sad. You'd like to see it end.
"It's just sad to see what's happening to that area of the city," he said.
"I love Ballybough, I love Sheriff Street. But sure there's been a war in Sheriff Street for years and years," he said.
It has been in and around Mr Sheridan's old street, Seville Place, where gardai have mounted heavily armed Emergency Response Unit (ERU) checkpoints to prevent further gangland violence since the Regency Hotel shooting spree.
Children are being forced to walk to school past armed gardai brandishing Koch MP7s - a new breed of so-called Personal Defence Weapon that can penetrate the type of body armour and armoured vehicles used by underworld thugs.
The checkpoints are part of round-the-clock patrols in the north inner city and south-west city where the Hutch and Kinahan gangs are based.
The government has intervened in the north inner city area and a task force is examining ways to improve the area.
Taoiseach Enda Kenny has also spent time meeting community leaders there.
The scene close to where the attack took place in Swords
A young woman on her way to work narrowly escaped serious injury during an early-morning assault in a Dublin suburb.
The attack took place in Swords shortly before 7am yesterday when the woman, aged in her 30s, was assaulted by an unknown man.
She managed to escape from her attacker and a cyclist was able to help her.
Shaken
It is understood the victim escaped with minor injuries but was left "very shaken" by the incident.
A source said gardai did not know whether the motivation for the attack was a sexual assault or a robbery.
CCTV in the area has been collected and is being examined by officers investigating the incident.
The attacker has been described as a man wearing a grey hoodie.
The area is close to a number of businesses and is usually busy with traffic.
Gardai are appealing for witnesses to the incident or to people who may have seen a man matching the attacker's description in the area to get in touch.
"Gardai would like anyone who was in the area of the R132, particularly between Balheary Road and Seatown Roundabout, to contact them at Swords Garda Station on 01 666 4700," a spokesman said.
Local Independent councillor Justin Sinnott said he has been fighting for an increase in garda numbers in the area.
"What strikes me most of all is we're seeing an incremental increase in that type of crime and it comes down to the fact that resources in the guards, especially in north Dublin, are very, very stretched," he said.
Complaints
"When you see incidents like this, it does come back to how are we detecting this type of crime and are we resourcing the police enough?"
He said he has been receiving an increasing number of complaints about minor crimes, which he fears feed into bigger incidents such as yesterday's attack.
"It's having a kind of a snowball effect that is concerning and incidents like this are deeply concerning. It's really troubling," said Mr Sinnott.
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An army jawan onboard the GT Express said he was thrown out of the speeding train in Betul district by three men after they looted Rs 100 notes from him.
The Andhra Pradesh-bound jawan, identified as Mallikarjun Nupur, was shifted to district hospital Betul for treatment.
Meanwhile, government railway police (GRP) ASI Sheikh Maqsool denied Nupurs claims, accusing him of changing his statements and that when questioned, the jawan had not been sure about how he had fallen off the train.
Armed men loot sacks of salt in Morena
Sacks of salt kept outside shops at two locations in Morena were reportedly looted by unidentified men amid rumours about shortage of the essential commodity.
However, no complaint has been registered so far, police said.
The incidents took place at Sabji Mandi (vegetable market) and Jiwajigang Market under Kotwali Police Station area around midnight, eyewitnesses said. Masked men in pick-up vehicles came to the two markets, where shopkeepers keep gunny bags of salt outside their outlets at night, and looted those, eyewitnesses said.
The shopkeepers have not yet reported about the loot. If they approach us we will investigate the matter, Kotwali police station inspector Ajay Chanana said.
Two days ago, the Centre had dismissed rumours of shortage of salt in the market and said adequate stocks are available across the country.
New Rs 500 notes rolled out in Bhopal
The State Bank of India branch in Bhopals TT Nagar rolled out the first set of the newly issued Rs 500 notes on Sunday.
With this, the people will have some respite. The work will be faster now. Till now, we were only giving Rs 100 notes. It was also taking up a lot of time. The people were really excited to receive the new Rs 500 note. It is a historic moment for all of us, a bank employee said.
It is a relief for us because small vendors and shopkeepers are not accepting Rs 2,000 bills due to a liquidity crunch, but it is easy to get change for Rs 500, said Savita Joshi, a housewife.
Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has said there is enough cash available in small denominations at banks, adding that the people must not be anxious and need not come over to banks repeatedly to draw and hoard cash.
The Reserve Bank of India assures members of the public that enough cash in small denominations are also available at the Reserve Bank and banks. The Reserve Bank urges that public need not be anxious; need not come over to banks repeatedly to draw and hoard. Cash is available when they need it, RBI said in a statement.
RBIs announcement comes as anger of the public intensified on Sunday, with banks struggling to dispense money.
Cong workers serve water, tea to people in queues
With residents facing major hardships due to the paucity of cash in the wake of the demonetisation move, the Congress in Madhya Pradesh set up stalls outside some banks on Sunday and served refreshments to those standing in long queues.
We had put some stalls in front of banks in the state capital, including Jahangirabad and Bairagarh localities, and served water and tea to people, especially senior citizens, said Congress district president and state unit party general secretary PC Sharma.
The days when actresses used to hide their baby bumps are long past, thanks to the likes of Kareena Kapoor Khan and Genelia DSouza. Kareena made headlines when she walked the ramp with a baby bump at a fashion week a few months ago. A source reveals that the actor is all set to flaunt her body again, but on the cover of a reputed womens magazine this time.
Kareena was recently seen on the cover of a bridal magazine with her husband, Saif Ali Khan. But for her next cover, Kareena is going solo. She sported traditional clothing on the cover of the magazine earlier, but she will now be seen in a long, flowy gown on the upcoming cover. The actor shot for the cover last week and the issue will be released in December, the source says.
#comingsoon#hellomagazine#october#cover #sisterlove @hellomagindia @manishmalhotra05 A photo posted by KK (@therealkarismakapoor) on Oct 1, 2016 at 1:29am PDT
The source adds that the new cover will be the actors last shoot for the year. Kareena was signed to appear on 11 magazine covers, and the number then went up to 14. The actor has been in demand by this particular womens magazine for a long time. But as she was busy with other shoots and advertisement endorsements, this shoot couldnt pan out until this month.
The ultimate showstopper #babysister#stunninglybeautiful#behindthescenes#backstage#lfw2016#grandfinale #bothinsabyasachi@sabyasachiofficial@tanghavri A video posted by KK (@therealkarismakapoor) on Aug 28, 2016 at 10:46am PDT
Kareena could not be reached for comment.
Writer-director Sujoy Ghosh is ready with the sequel of his National award-winning film Kahaani (2012). In his sixth film as director, Sujoy has once again cast his muse, Vidya Balan. Anxious about his film and glad about his friendship with the actor, Sujoy explains about his process of creating women-centric stories.
With Kahaani 2s release being around the corner, how does it make you feel?
I am feeling a bit scared. Prior to the release, there are many other things that you (film-maker) are doing and once the film releases, the feeling is similar to how a child grows up and leaves home. If its a good film, people will appreciate it.
The definition of sequels or franchise films in Bollywood is not definite
For Kahaani 2, I would say its in the same genre of Kahaani. It took us so long to find the right story to make another film with the Kahaani stamp. The first film was an audience property as it doesnt belong to me or Vidya.
here is the #Kahaani2Trailer for you.. we hope we haven't let you down.. with love & gratitude..https://t.co/p3Pn2Cv1Ik sujoy ghosh (@sujoy_g) October 25, 2016
Kahaanis success did wonders for Vidyas career. How did it work for you?
Kahaani did nothing for me. But it gave happiness to my mother who felt her son was finally doing something. My familys happiness means a lot as when I am working on a film, they suffer a lot as they put up with me and my work timings. So, its great when they get a chance to celebrate.
In an interview, Vidya said she appreciates the way you understand women and your characters arent gender stereotypes.
I was fortunate to be brought up by two mothers (birth mother and foster mother) and they are incredibly strong people who have struggle and fight it out in life. They have inculcated in me to respect other women and see them as individuals. They do everything that any human being can do, so it reflects in my stories. I dont consciously make women equal to men but I think my writings reflect my understanding of women. I didnt notice this till Vidya pointed out.
sunday morning love you with MEHRAM.. https://t.co/WXsRImqvq8 sujoy ghosh (@sujoy_g) November 13, 2016
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Two leading bank unions criticised the government on Monday over demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, saying the move has led to financial chaos across the country.
In a letter to Indian Banks Association (IBA), All India Bank Officers Association (AIBOA) and All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA) said the decision to withdraw the high-value notes was taken without proper planning or preparation.
They also highlighted heavy work pressure on employees and officers at bank branches in the wake of demonetisation which has led to customers rushing to exchange the now defunct notes.
Chaotic situation is prevailing at the bank branches and this is unbearable for both customers as well as bank employees and officers, S Nagarajan, general secretary of AIBOA, and CH Venkatachalam, his counterpart at AIBEA, said in the letter to IBA, the apex body of bank managements.
There is a huge shortage of Rs 100 notes which are now in great demand for routine needs, while most customers are not willing to accept the new Rs 2,000 bill, they said.
The Centre and the Reserve Bank must be fully aware that already there is a huge gap between the indent and supply of Rs 100 notes.
For example, in 2015-16, as against the indent of 535 crore pieces of Rs 100 notes, the supply received was only to the tune of 490 crore pieces, according to the letter.
One cannot understand the reason behind banning the existing Rs 500 notes and not providing new supply of Rs 500 notes in time, it added.
Most of the 2.20 lakh ATMs across the country are closed or partly functional. This has put additional pressure on the staff and customers are compelled to visit branches to withdraw cash from their accounts, the two unions said.
Nagarajan and Venkatachalam requested the IBA to ensure the RBI supplies adequate cash in denominations of Rs 100 and new Rs 500 notes to ease pressure on banks and provide relief to customers.
As panic spread with ATMs turning dry and thousands queuing up at banks to withdraw and exchange cash, the government has set up two separate panels-- one under the Reserve Bank of India deputy governor SS Mundra and the other one, a seven member team comprising seven secretaries and joint secretaries of the finance ministry.
While the RBI panel will monitor the recalibration exercise of the ATMs so that they can start dispensing currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 2000 at the earliest, the committee of finance ministry officials will focus on currency distribution in the rural areas.
The number of ATMs which will be recalibrated and which can dispense Rs 2,000 notes will be stepped up and to make this whole process faster, to expedite this whole process, a task force was decided to be set up under the chairmanship of deputy governor (of RBI), Shaktikanta Das, secretary, department of economic affairs said at a press conference.
There are 2.17 lakh ATMs in the country. Most of them still need to be recalibrated to be able to dispense the new currency notes that come in different designs and features.
Meanwhile, senior officials in the finance ministry have been also allocated different states and banks with the purpose of reviewing the situation on a daily basis. Das said that the officials have been asked to come up with action plan to resolve the situation.
With the demonetisation exercise hitting its sixth day on Monday, things were far from normal with citizens facing different problems of liquidity. Earlier on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had held a meeting with senior ministers and government officials to review the progress of the demonetization exercise.
The operation to mop up old 500 and 1,000 notes will end on December 30, but the government will continue to monitor your bank accounts for large cash transactions well beyond that date.
The stated purpose of demonetisation is a surgical strike on black money. This is part of the governments on-going war against illegal money circulating in the economy, said revenue secretary Hasmukh Adhia. But we will not stop at this, there are several other proposals being considered to stub out black money.
The basic principle of the action plan drawn up by finance ministry is to monitor all data relating to cash transactions and cash holdings of individuals, and for this purpose the government will keep a hawks eye on cash withdrawals and deposits.
The 2.5 lakh limit on cash deposits will be increased, but will be accompanied by silent scrutiny. Strict monitoring of cash withdrawals and deposits at banks will be deterrent for large cash holding among people, said a senior finance ministry functionary. He said there is no end-date after which such scrutiny would be tapered off. In effect, any cash transaction of that you make would be noted.
At present, Reserve Bank of India mandates all banks to maintain suspicious transaction reports (STR) for all cash transactions above 10 lakh. Simply put, if an individuals cash deposits or transactions in a bank total over 10 lakh in a financial a year, the data will be captured in the STR and shared with financial intelligence unit under the finance ministry.
The limit of 10 lakh will now be reduced. Till December 30, all cash deposits over 2.5 lakh are being monitored, after that this limit will be increased but it will be lower than 10 lakh, said a senior officer in the finance ministry, who did not wish to be named. Any mismatch of deposits with declared income will attract 30% tax and 200% penalty, with imprisonment being a possibility, the official said, adding a likely figure being discussed is 6 lakh per year.
The Union Budget of 2016 had mandated that the PAN would need to be quoted for jewellery purchases on cash above 2 lakh. To tighten the system further, sources in the government say that now, jewellers will be asked to disclose their stock holding and sales at regular intervals. These are mainly jewellers who have been on the radar of the intelligence departments, the official quoted earlier told HT.
The SIT has already proposed that PAN be mandatory for all cash transactions above 2 lakh.
Real estate and gold are the two additional focus areas for the government after cash, to stamp out black money from the economy, said Girish Vanvari, national head of tax for KPMG.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that the government will next crackdown on benami property that is, property that the buyer does not register in his own name, holding it in the sellers name with a power-of-attorney that makes subsequent sale easier.
The property buyer saves on stamp duty, and the seller, who takes a big part of the payment in unaccounted and undeclared cash, saves by not paying tax.
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International industrial and metals group Liberty House has formally reopened a steelworks in Wales that shut down a year ago when its former owner, Caparo Steel Products, went into administration.
Liberty is resuming the production of steel structural hollow sections and tubes at the plant in Tredegar with support from the Welsh Government in a move that will create around 70 new jobs directly and many more in the supply chain.
Liberty House is one of the leading suitors for Tata Steels UK assets, whose sale process is currently underway, including negotiations with pension funds.
Wales first minister Carwyn Jones, who was accompanied by Libertys executive chairman, Sanjeev Gupta, at the event, described it as a great boost for the area and for the steel industry in Wales.
The site, which includes a 100,000 tonnes a year rolling mill, was one of a number of former Caparo Steel Products sites acquired by Liberty from the administrators in late 2015. Liberty is investing 3.7 million in refurbishing and updating the facility which is backed by 600,000 business finance from the Welsh Government.
Gupta said: The steel industry globally continues to face severe challenges. The sharp rise in raw material prices means that margins for producers are worse than ever and we foresee challenging times ahead.
However the United Kingdom is a mature market with customers demanding sophisticated products and exemplary service.
We have the skills and capability here to serve our home market with high quality products on a competitive basis provided we can operate on a level playing field against our international competitors.
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New Delhi: If you thought that public sector units always lead by example, think again. Theres at least one area where they are missing the yardsticks by at least a mile corporate governance.
Sebi regulations and the Companies Act, 2013 have laid down specific rules on corporate governance. But surprisingly, companies where the government still holds majority stake, do not comply with this.
An analysis of the top 32 central public sector enterprises (CPSEs), which are part of the BSE 500 companies (excluding public sector banks), shows that as many as 26 companies do not have the mandated number of independent directors on their boards.In another case, as many as seven CPSEs did not have a woman director on board as of March 31, 2016.
SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015 require at least half of the board of directors to be independent, if the chairman is an executive director; according to rules, it is compulsory to have at least one woman director on board.
Sample this.
Public sector major GAIL, which has a board size of 10, has only four independent directors and no woman director as of March 31, 2016. The last woman director had quit the board in January 2016.
GAIL, a CPSE under the petroleum ministry, said in its annual report 2015-16: Government of India is seized of the matter pertaining to appointment of the requisite number of independent directors including woman director on the board of the company. The Government of India is in process of selecting requisite number of independent directors including woman director.
NHPC, MMTC, Container Corp and Rashtriya Chemicals & Fertilisers are among the central PSUs, which do not have adequate number of independent directors and woman director on board.
At least 215 independent directors either resigned or were not re-appointed since 2013-14, according to Prime Database.
According to corporate governance experts, the process of appointing a director on the board of a CPSE is an elaborate process. Both the department of personnel and training (DoPT) and the home ministry are involved in the process along with the nodal ministry that governs the concerned company. In case of a vacancy, the nodal ministry recommends at least three people for each post to the DoPT. A search committee headed by the DoPT secretary finally selects the candidate. The panel comprises the DPE (Department of Public Enterprises) secretary, secretary of the nodal ministry (which governs the CPSE) and 2 non-official members.
A top official of the DoPT told HT that there were a quite a few vacancies, and these would be filled very soon.
We are in the final stages of inter-ministerial consultations and this process would be concluded very soon, said the official quoted above.
The companies mentioned in this story did not respond to HTs requests for comments.
During 2015-16 (till November), the search committee had met six times and recommended names for filling up 143 positions of non-official directors on boards of various CPSE, according to the annual report (2015-16) of the Department of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprise.
The government, being the largest shareholder, is not showing any intent. The ministries and the bureaucracy take inordinate times in appointing directors, said Shriram Subramanian, managing director of InGovern Research, a proxy advisory firm.
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs exempts CPSEs from various corporate governance disclosures otherwise mandated by the Companies Act, 2013. Some of these exemptions include exemption from pay-ratio and board evaluation disclosures in annual reports and exemption from restricting independent directors from having pecuniary relationships with the said companies.
Sources in the above mentioned companies, on conditions of anonymity, said while most CPSEs are listed companies, in spirit they are dependent mostly on the government for even their day-to-day functioning. Fewer independent directors on boards of listed companies also lead to non-compliance of corporate governance measures, such as independence of crucial committees (see graphic).
12 CPSEs do not have enough independent directors in audit and nomination and remuneration committees; Also, six CPSEs do not have a single independent director on corporate social responsibility (CSR) committee. Both these are against Sebi rules.
Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), for instance, could not constitute these three crucial committees for the entire financial year as independent directors resigned one after the other.
The audit committee had become non-functional as a result, no audit committee meetings were held in financial year 2015-2016. according to SCIs annual report for 2015-16. Similarly, CSR and nomination and remuneration committees were also not constituted and no meetings were conducted in the whole of last financial year.
CPSEs are governed by the ministry, despite being listed companies; the accountability has not really changed for them. The ministry and the listed CPSEs are still accountable to Parliament. Consequently, market expectations and Sebis rules become secondary. But CPSEs must appreciate that public shareholders have expectations regarding governance standards, and on this, investors must not be short-changed, says Amit Tandon, managing director, institutional investor advisory services (IiAS), a proxy advisory firm.
(with inputs from Aloke Tikku and Suchetana Ray)
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The board of Tata Motors appeared to stay clear of an escalating feud between ousted Tata Sons chairman Cyrus Mistry and group patron Ratan Tata on Monday, with independent directors unanimously approving the decisions taken by company, including on its small car, the Nano.
The board meeting had assumed significance after Tata Sons, the Tata groups holding company, called for emergency general meetings to remove Mistry and independent director Nusli Wadia from Tata Motors. Mistry continues to be chairman of some group companies, including Tata Motors.
The independent directors have confirmed that all decisions taken by the board with regard to strategy, operations and business of the company have been unanimous and executed by the chairman and the management accordingly, a Tata Motors statement said.
Read | Tata Sons stooped low in doubting independent directors: Cyrus Mistry
The stance indicates that Tata Sons and the chairman of Tata Motors did not escalate Mondays meeting, preferring to let matters be. People close to Mistry said the Tata Motors statement in a way backs what we have been saying that actions taken by Mr Mistry have improved the company.
But others said the boards support for Nano, a pet project of Ratan Tata, should be seen as a setback for Mistry, who had criticised the strategy behind what was once the worlds cheapest car.
Men ride a motorbike as they come out of a past a Tata Motors car plant at Sanand, Gujarat. (REUTERS)
To be sure, however, the stand of the board of Tata Motor is a departure from that of the board meetings of Indian Hotels and Tata Chemicals, where independent directors supported Mistry, prompting censure from Tata Sons in the form of calls for the removal of Mistry and Wadia as directors.
The independent directors have further affirmed that the company continues to be governed, supervised and managed under the guidance and direction of the board, the Tata Motors statement added.
Read | Tatas say devious Mistry tried to gain control of group companies
The management of the company and its subsidiaries have the full confidence and support of the independent directors.
The countrys largest commercial vehicle maker swung to a consolidated net profit in the second quarter of FY 2015-16, backed by strong sales at Jaguar Land Rover and improved performance of new passenger car models launched by the Indian subsidiary.
Tata Motors is crucial for the Tata group as 90% of its profits come from JLR and Tata Consultancy Services, which underscores the Tatas desire to have control of the automaker.
Read | More support for Mistry after Indian Hotels episode? Tatas cautious
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Tata Motors is scheduled to hold its board meet today at 1:00 pm to approve second quarter results.
The board meeting is also likely to discuss specific items regarding the removal of Cyrus Mistry and Nusli Wadia as directors of Tata Motors.
On Nov 11, Tata Motors said it has received a requisition and a special notice, under Sections 100(2)(a) and 115 of the Companies Act, 2013, from Tata Sons for convening an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) for considering and passing resolutions for the removal of Mistry and Wadia as directors of the company.
Tata Sons is the promoter company of Tata Motors its shareholding represents 26.51% of Tata Motors voting capital.
The boardroom battle for control of the Tata group, which surfaced on October 24 after Tata Sons approved a resolution to oust Mistry as group chairman, has seen a series of charges and counter charges traded publicly between Tata Sons and Mistry. Mistry continues to be chairman of some group companies including Tata Motors.
The battle intensified when independent directors of two group companies Indian Hotels and Tata Chemicals issued statements of support for Mistrys leadership, prompting Tata Sons to call for EGMs to oust him as director. Such a move will require shareholder approval and hence the notice for an EGM.
The move to remove Wadia has been taken as Tata Sons has indicated that the veteran industrialist has been leading independent directors to support Mistry.
Tata Motors, which also owns the highly profitable Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) unit, is crucial for the Tata group. The conglomerate gets 90% of its profits from TCS and JLR, which underscores the Tatas desire to have control.
Big protests after elections are usually the hallmarks of countries with weak democratic systems. The United States can take justifiable pride in its robust electoral institutions and its centuries of continuous democratic practice. In the wake of Donald Trumps election, however, demonstrators have flocked to the streets of cities and university campuses across the country. An imminent Trump presidency has so alarmed many Americans that rallies against the president-elect may become a fixture of civic life in places like New York, Chicago and Los Angeles.
These protests are not meant to challenge the legitimacy of the election (even though he lost the popular vote to Hillary Clinton by nearly two million, Trump won the electoral college fairly). Rather, the protests send a clear message of disapproval. Huge swathes of the country see his presidency as abominable and as posing an unprecedented threat to the nation and the world.
Read | Is Trumps tough plan on immigration cracking?
My wife and I joined over 25,000 people on November 12 in a march up New Yorks Fifth Avenue to Trump Tower, the skyscraper which, if reports are to be believed, Trump would like to use as the headquarters of his presidency rather than the White House. Protestors had assembled at Trump Tower every day since his victory. An astonishingly thin-skinned man, Trump initially bristled at these demonstrations, dismissing marchers as professional protestors stirred by the media. Later, possibly coaxed by his staff into a more magnanimous mood, he tweeted that he respected the expression of free speech. Trumps attempts at presidential grace so far are stiff and unnatural, their veneer of decorum not masking the churning bile beneath.
As happens in most public gatherings in New York City, the crowds that mobilised against Trump were remarkably diverse. The caricature of the liberal in American politics and the one deployed by Trump and his surrogates during the campaign is of an effete urbanite, typically white, well-off and out-of-touch. A city like New York helplessly belies such stereotypes. We marched alongside people of many ages, races, classes, and religions, from Spanish-chanting Puerto Ricans to black families pushing strollers to white men demanding shelter for refugees to students yelling about womens rights. It may be that manifestations of this kind become more pointed in the coming months, voicing concrete demands or pushing for specific legislation. But the protests in this first week since Trumps victory are still inchoate, swelling out of shock and surprise, a mustering of the varied, multicultural citizenry his campaign traduced. We were united by our horror at the elections outcome and by the resolve that in the absence of many traditional checks and balances, Trumps presidency must be challenged by an engaged public.
Read | Trump to forgo $400,000 salary as US president, says will take $1 a year
When he becomes president on January 20, Trump will have considerably more power than Barack Obama had for much of his presidency. Both houses of Congress are in Republican hands. Trumps agenda can be forced through the legislature that his party controls. After appointing a new Supreme Court justice, Trump will have a conservative-leaning judiciary as well.
The many atrocious policy ideas floated through his campaign include the forceful deportation of over 10 million migrants; the use of torture; withdrawal from a gamut of international treaties and the shirking of Americas responsibilities to its allies; engaging in trade wars; reintroducing stop and frisk police practices that unconstitutionally target black and Latino males; abandoning efforts to curb climate change; banning Muslim immigration and creating a registry to track Muslim Americans; attacking organs of the press he deems antagonistic; and encouraging other nations to develop nuclear weapons. This mooted platform is the stuff of nightmares, altogether authoritarian, racist, xenophobic, and likely to spawn chaos at home and abroad. Even if just dimly reflected in the actions of his presidency, it promises barbarity and disaster.
Read | Trump appears firm on agenda, says Americans have nothing to fear
Trump is not just another president. He is a man who, by all accounts, has never read a book, has proven singularly incapable of basic human empathy, has exploited his employees, built his political career on racist smears of Obama, and stands accused by numerous women of sexual violence. The Ku Klux Klan is organising rallies across the country to celebrate his win. Of all the many ascendant Right-wing forces in western politics, Trump is the most extreme, the least disciplined, and the most empowered.
And yet the democratic process is allowing Trump to be normalised. Obama graciously accepted him into the White House. In defeat, Clinton urged the country to unite under his stewardship. The broadcast media is beginning to place Trump within the benign frame of elected office. This isnt surprising. No matter how abhorrent, Trump is wholly the product of the democratic process. That is why I suspect there will continue to be protests across the country, to wake the public not only against the policies of this improbable president, but against the system that enthroned him.
Kanishk Tharoor is the author of Swimmer Among the Stars: Stories. The views expressed are personal.
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Room number 101 at the School of Social Sciences (I) in Jawaharlal Nehru University is locked. On the door is a poster with a couplet by poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz. So what if my pen has been snatched away from me, I have dipped my fingers in the blood of my heart. So what if my mouth has been sealed, I have turned every link of my chain a speaking tongue, reads the poster.
The office of professor Archana Prasad, chairperson of Centre for Informal Sector and Labour studies (ISLS), the room has been locked since the day she was named in the murder of Chhattisgarh resident Shamnath Baghel.
On November 4, Baghel was stabbed by alleged Maoists outside his house in Nama village, Bastar, Chhattisgarh -- over 1,500 kilometres away from Prasads first floor office in Delhi.
Nandini Sundar, a professor in Delhi Universitys sociology department, is also named in the FIR. While the two have gone on leave, a Chhattisgarh police team is in the city to summon them for investigation.
Last week, police claimed Baghels wife blamed the two professors for her husbands death. Baghel had filed a complaint seven months ago, accusing them of inciting villagers against the government.
At Delhi university sociology department, Sundars colleagues are busy getting signatures on a petition against Chhattisgarh police. They say the police are framing the two professors. They have got 250 signatures, most of them sociologists from across the country.
She has been framed for exposing human rights violations in the state against tribals. She is a genuine researcher who has travelled extensively. Through her PILs, the marginalised tribal people have found avenues to voice their grievances. She is being targeted because her view is contrary to that of the state, her colleague Satish Deshpande said.
Deshpande said Sundar has been working for the tribals over two decades. Wife of journalist Siddhartha Vardarajan, Sundar was one of the petitioners in the case that led the Supreme Court to ban the state-sponsored vigilante group, Salwa Judum, in 2011.
Read: Chhattisgarh top cop threatens HT journalist over Bastar reporting
Sundars first book was on the anthropological history of Bastar. Her colleagues said she has been with Delhi University since 2005. Known to be an expert in tribal affairs, Sundar was a member of many fact-finding committees sent to states across India.
One of her colleagues said that contrary to police allegations, her recent book, The Burning Forest: Indias war in Bastar, has been critical of Maoist actions.
Read her latest book, she takes a neutral stand on the issue of Maoists. Sociology involves field work, which is why she has travelled across the country and not just Bastar. All of us travel to villages and interact with marginalized people, said Sudha Vasan, associate professor.
Vasan said Sundar recently travelled to Jharkhand on a project. Should we stop travelling and meeting people?
At JNU, the teachers union has been holding meetings to condemn the FIR against Prasad and firefight the state oppression.
A JNU alumna, she had earlier worked at Jamia Milla Islamia University. She joined JNU in 2013. Till September, she was the chairperson of the ISLS. She is an expert on the history and study of tribals in India. She recently visited Maharashtra with our students for a research on how workers of informal sectors have no protection from the state, said her colleague Pradeep Shinde.
A member of the research advisory committee of the ministry of tribal affairs said most of her books focus on modern tribal identity and development of societies in contemporary India.
We are completely behind her and condemn the FIR. She is a writer and not a murderer. The state is targeting academicians, said Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers Union President Bikramaditya Choudhary.
Last Tuesday (November 7), when news broke out about the FIR against the two professors, Prasad reportedly applied for leave the next day till Friday (November 11). But she has not returned yet. Both her cell phones were switched off. There was no response on her residential landline.
Inspector General (Bastar) SRP Kalluri told HT that the two professors would have to join investigation. Our teams are in different states, including Delhi, investigating the case. The charges against them are serious. If they do not join investigation, we will approach court for a warrant against them.
Read: DU professor Nandini Sundar booked for murder of Chhattisgarh tribal
Over the last few days, all talk inside the School of Social Sciences was about the professors and Bastar police. Twice on Wednesday (November 8), students gathered outside the chairpersons office when there were rumours of cops reaching the university campus.
Near Prasads office, a group of students could be seen reminding passers-by of poet Martin Neimoller and his words: First they come for the communists and I did not speak out because I was not a communistthey came for the Jews and I did not speak out because I was not a Jew. They came for the socialists and I did not speak out because I was not a socialistThen they came for me and there was no one left to speak out for me.
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Its Childrens Day and the Delhi governments project of enabling every child to read at the basic level comes to an end. But, work for the Capitals education minister, Manish Sisodia, has just begun. In conversation with HT, Sisodia talks about their flagship Chunauti scheme, the challenges they continue to face and the way forward.
By November 14, all students in Delhi were supposed to know how to read under Chunauti 2018. What has been the result of this two-month long programme?
From the reports given to me, I can say we have been able to turn more than 50% non readers into readers. They might not be too good at it, but have surely picked up the basics. However, an assessment will be conducted by school teachers only on November 15 and 16. By Thursday, I expect the accumulated data to reach me. After that, a third-party assessment of the entire system will be done by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT). Results from the schools and SCERT will be collated and then a final announcement will be made on November 30.
Read: How a non-reader at a Delhi govt school turned into a reader
What after November 30?
Tailor made solutions wont work. Based on the outcome, we will see how to move further. Once a school achieves 100% readability, we will reshuffle the students in Class 7. The division of readers and non readers would go. I am sure there will also be aspects where we will have to improve upon.
The second component of Chunauti, where Class 9 students are being helped, will go on. In that we, have identified students who cant read or have failed twice or more. Groups have been made for their special training.
But, we wont let them sit for the regular exams in schools. They will be given study material and uniforms and will have to attend school from Monday to Friday. But they will be made to appear in their final exams in our Open School. This is because the level of curriculum toughness in Open School is lower than the regular schools. So, they will be able to pass, which we hope will boost their confidence.
I plan to go big on the Reading Melas. Parents and youngsters are coming forward to teach children how to read.
Read: New readers at Delhi govt schools make slow, steady progress
What challenges were you confronted with?
I faced challenges from officials of my own department. There has been a lot of mid-level resistance. Our system is slave of curriculum. When we were discussing how teachers would themselves have to take the responsibility, officials were worried about how they would complete their syllabus. We had to remind them repeatedly, focus on the basics first.
We follow a system where teachers are given a timeline for chapters to be completed and also the way it is to be taught. I believe, teachers must be given some freedom so that they themselves take interest and also teach students in fun ways. Until that is achieved, I feel the no-detention policy for students up to Class 8 does not fit. We are not ready for it yet.
Improving the quality of students is being taken care of, but what is being done for teachers?
Apart from their subjects, the focus is on motivation. So, we have created a group of 200 Mentor Teachers for all our 1,011 schools. We picked up one best teacher from groups of five schools each. These mentors will be guiding teachers. The most important thing is that teachers need to improve their communication skill with students.
Government data suggests schools are largely overcrowded. What is being done about it?
We are creating more classrooms. 6,000 have already been built, whereas, 1,500 will be ready by the end of this month. 1,500 more will be ready in January.
The Delhi government has called a special session of the Delhi assembly on Tuesday to discuss the fallout of the Centres decision to scrap 500 and 1000 notes even as chief minister Arvind Kejriwal reiterated his demand for the immediate withdrawal of the demonetisation scheme.
Delhiites struggled for the sixth day for cash as banks and ATMs remain closed on Monday on account of the public holiday for Guru Purab.
The chief minister chaired a hurriedly called cabinet meeting at his residence at which the state government decided to deploy about 5,000 civil defence volunteers to assist people standing in queues outside bank and ATMs with water and refreshment. The deployment will be done in a day or two, chief minister Kejriwal said.
I have directed the divisional commissioners to explore possibilities of providing food to those in need and distress, Kejriwal told reporters after the cabinet meeting.
Continuing his tirade against the Narendra Modi government, the CM referred to the announcement that cash was being dispatched to remote corners in IAF aircraft and said it showed how the Centre was now in a panic mode due to lack of proper planning.
Kejriwal, who has been one of the most vocal opponents of the scheme, said only dalals (touts) were making merry amid the nationwide crisis and honest people were queuing up outside banks for their own money.
We demand an immediate withdrawal of the scheme. The government can bring it later with better planning, Kejriwal said.
The AAP leader warned the Centre that the continuation of the scheme risks a law and order problem and the Union government needs to come out with a solution soon.
Read: Kejriwal, Sisodia rally behind traders, visit wholesale hubs
Running down the Prime Ministers call seeking 50 days from the countrymen to cleanse the economy, Kejriwal said people were not ready to grant even 50 hours due to their sufferings.
He said the decision had hit all sectors, including business and agriculture besides daily livelihood. I met several traders on Sunday who told me how difficult it has become for them to run their business with the withdrawal cap of R 24,000 per week. Farmers have been hit and there are uncertainties about how they would buy seeds, fertilizer etc. We dont see any solution coming, he said.
The BJP criticised the announcements by the Delhi government. Delhi BJP president Satish Upadhyay said there is no logic to call an assembly session on the subject, which is not related to the Delhi government.
It is a political drama. Kejriwal often calls assembly sessions on issues which has no connection with the Delhi government. It is established that Kejriwal is worst affected by the decision of demonetisation, he said.
The deadline set by the Delhi government to enable children in its schools to read and write draws to an end on Monday but the jury is still out on the success of the scheme.
When the deadline was set on September 5, many claimed that no concrete results would be achieved in such a short span; but many schools claimed they did make some progress. Hindustan Times spoke to teachers, students, parents and government officials to find what impact the scheme had on the ground.
In July 2016, about two lakh students of Class 6 from 1,011 schools under the Directorate of Education were surveyed and it was found that 74% could not read a paragraph from their Hindi textbook, while 46% could not read a simple story prescribed for Class 2 students.
Their English language and Math skills were no better either. Close to half the students could not subtract, if it involved borrowing and 5% had difficulty identifying even single digits.
Read: Faced resistance from my own department over Chunauti scheme: Sisodia
On September 30, schools conducted baseline tests, which examined students oral and reading skills in Hindi and English and tested their Math skills. The students were regrouped into readers and non readers by October 3, to give special attention to non readers.
The teachers and principal at the Shaheed Hemu Kalani Sarvodaya Bal Vidyalaya, claim that of the 59 students in classes 6 to 8 that they had identified as non readers, all except 7-10 students have shown some progress.
Initially, I had 12 students in my class, of which three were absolute beginners. These students could not even identify the letters of the alphabet. Some others could read simple words, but could not read and comprehend longer sentences or complex paragraphs, claimed Vishnu Kumar, the class teacher of Class 8 non reader Nishtha section.
Similarly, Vanadana Verma, who handles the Class 6 non reader section, said that she had 15 students. After a lot of individual attention, special exercises and sheer hard work, all my students have shown some progress, said Verma.
Ali Raza is my star student. He is an Afghani, who could not even identify characters when he first came in. He can now read whole sentences and complex paragraphs. He faces some difficulty in pronunciation because of his different accent but his progress still has been remarkable, said Verma.
Read: How a non-reader at a Delhi govt school turned into a reader
The school officials maintain their work was no cakewalk. The first week was the hardest. We had to rebuild their entire basics. We had to start from scratch and teach them the letters of the alphabet, and ensure that they recognised and understood maatras, said Verma.
Something had to be done. If we hadnt taken a pledge when we did, nobody would have. It is a big task but even if a few students benefit from the new scheme, is it not worth it? We were aiming for the moon so that even if we fall, we would land among the stars, said Saumya Gupta, director, DoE.
While the results at Shaheed Hemu Kalani Sarvodaya Bal Vidyalaya sound promising, others claim it is just that; too good to be true. Literacy is not a mechanical exercise. Reading is not a skill that you can learn in a few weeks. It is a cognitive and linguistic practice that requires that you not only decode the letters and the words, but also be able to understand its complexity and meaning, claimed Janaki Rajan, professor at Jamia Millia Islamia.
It needs to be seen if the students are just parroting the texts that have been taught to them in class. If they cant read any fresh, unseen texts, then we cant claim that they have made progress. Then it becomes training, not real education, said Rajan.
Gupta claimed that though schools have been tracking the progress of students by conducting regular tests every week, the government will independently reassess all the students after Childrens Day. We will do test checks, and try to ascertain schools claims of progress. We should have definite data by the end of November, said Gupta.
As arguably the most eccentric person to hold the most powerful political post in the world, every action of Donald Trump is being held up to tight scrutiny. Politicians everywhere regularly make promises and announce policies on the campaign trail that they dilute or jettison once they come to power. At times, the policies enacted are the polar opposites of what has been said in public. This practice has become so widespread that it is a reason why voters have turned to mavericks like Mr Trump there is an aura of authenticity about these non-establishment political figures.
Read | Safety pins: A pointed show of solidarity after Trump election
Mr Trump has been particularly difficult to read because he often took contradictory positions during the campaign. So far, he seems to be holding to three elements of his campaign platform. One is to make it much harder for immigrants to enter the United States most strikingly by building a physical wall on the Mexican border and to crack down on illegal migrants. Two, to scrap the Trans-Pacific Partnership and broadly shift the US to a trade policy in which unilateral actions are more prevalent. Three, to divest the US of its international obligations under the Paris agreement and other climate change deals. On the other hand, he has already begun watering down his earlier opposition to the healthcare programmes of US president Barack Obama and it evident that a Trump administration will be far more muscular in its approach to China and the Islamic State than the outgoing administration.
It helps to realise that Mr Trumps positions are not necessarily as out of sync with present trends than they may seem. He has announced he will expel three million illegal immigrants in the US. That resonates: Many Americans support immigration, but few support migrants who break the law. More importantly, it is a policy already in place. The Obama administration has expelled more illegal migrants than any presidency in recent history 2.9 million between 2009 and 2015. The US-Mexico border is already a fortified barricade and adding more cameras and barbed wire will make little material difference.
Read | Pences transition job could signal key role in White House
The real issue will be whether Mr Trump will also put restrictions on the movement of highly-skilled migrants that India is concerned about. On this, he has blown hot and cold. The new administration is on more touchy ground, and not allied with public opinion, in declaring climate change to be a falsehood. It remains to be seen whether Mr Trump will put his policy where his mouth was in this area. What seems evident so far is that the president-elect is prepared to defy not only mainstream opinion but his own party leadership in certain policy areas. But he is not above moderating his stance. Where and why he moves between insurgency and the status quo, however, remains unclear.
State board examinations for class 12 students commenced in strife-torn Kashmir on Monday morning amidst tight security, as 94.53% of those expected to take the exams on the first day turned up.
Following debates over holding exams in either November or March, the state government in an unprecedented decision decided to hold the Class 10 and 12 board exams twice in November with 50% syllabus and in March with the full syllabus for students who fail to appear this time.
On the first day, the chemistry exam was held under the science stream, Arabic, Persian and economics under the arts stream while commerce conducted entrepreneurship and economics papers.
According to the data provided by the Jammu Kashmir State Board of School Education (JKBOSE), 32,044 students were expected to appear on Monday out of which 30,292 turned up. A senior board official said that those who had opted to appear for exams but could not turn up will have a chance to reappear in the March session of the exam.
Out of the 50,000-odd students registered under the state board for class 12, some 48,000 had opted to appear for the November session of the exam.
On Monday morning, as students revised for the last time, security forces stood guard around the exam centres. Some students said that they were worried about their safety because they heard rumours of stone-pelting but the presence of security forces relieved them.
Most of my men were on the ground to ensure students or parents are not harassed, coerced or stopped from reaching the exams. All went well, except for a couple of incidences of miscreants trying to disturb the examination in south Kashmir and in these places the parents themselves chased away the trouble-makers, said DGP (law and order, coordination) SP Vaid.
Read | Kashmir students to sit for board exams starting Monday amid tight security
Anxious in the morning as to whether the paper would reflect a relaxed syllabus as announced by the government, the students came out of the halls in the evening happy and many said that the paper was easy.
Shahbaz Ahmed, a science student, said that he was happy with the question paper because of there were sufficient alternative questions and added that the government has adhered to what it had promised anyone who has studied 50% of the syllabus will be able to answer 100% questions.
I had opted for the November session of exams because firstly, we get a syllabus relaxation and secondly, we get enough time to prepare for competitive entrance exams, said Ahmed, who is an engineering aspirant.
Even in the troubled south Kashmir region, exams were held without any major incidence of law and order problems.
Instructions on how to go about the paper were not written but the examiners explained to us the same, said Vijdan Ahmed, a class 12 student from south Kashmirs Shopian district.
He also said: We were very scared till now regarding how the question papers will be, but after todays paper and because the instructions were explained, everyone is happy.
Ahmed added that some students in the region have complained of harassment by miscreants while leaving their homes for exam centres. Shopian superintendent of police, Tahir Saleem Khan, however, said they had not received any such complaints and added that they had sanitized an area of radius 200 metres around every centre beyond which paramilitary and army troops patrolled the areas.
A class 12 student from north Kashmirs Sopore area said that her exam was not up to the mark because during the ongoing unrest she could not complete even the half the syllabus required for the exam.
Parents, waiting outside exam centres, told HT that they will be anxious throughout the duration of the examination because they feel the situation in the Valley since July 8 have not been conducive for education.
Students have undergone a traumatic experience in the last four months and perhaps they are not psychologically ready for the exams. But appearing in March would have meant that preparation for competitive exams could be paralysed, said Mir Zahoor, the father of a Class 12 student.
Read | Education in Kashmir faces another challenge: Almost 20 schools burnt in unrest
How do you pick a country to study in? First, you want English to be commonly spoken there. You want a country that is safe, has a credible university system and scholarship options. It would help if living there was affordable. And finally, youd ideally like a country whose culture was easy to adapt to.
For decades, the UK checked all these boxes. It also had a large Indian-origin population, to make adjustment easier.
But a May 2016 report by research firm MM Advisory shows that while the number of Indian students heading abroad is rising steadily, the number headed to the UK has fallen by 10% over the past two years.
That number is expected to drop further by 2018, as Britain prepares to leave the EU, mainly because employment opportunities to foreign students will become even more limited.
Previously non-EU students were allowed to remain in the UK after finishing their studies. Now, Indian students must leave the country and apply for a work visa if they wish to return, says Namita Mehta, undergraduate services manager and partner at education consultancy The Red Pen.
NEW DIRECTIONS
Some of this slack is being picked up by the usual suspects the US and Australia.
The US saw 29%more Indian students this year, and Australia is now the second favourite choice, a position previously held by the UK, says Maria Mathai, director of MM Advisory. Over the past two years, the number of Indian students headed to Australia has risen by 20% and the number of those heading to New Zealand has risen by the same margin. These countries have relaxed visa norms and fees are considerably lower than the US and the UK.
Countries such as Spain, Germany, France and Denmark are also emerging as alternatives. These countries had almost all their courses taught in native languages until a few years ago, says Rohan Ganeriwala, co-founder of study-abroad consultancy Collegify. Now they have many courses in English. Several universities in Germany and Spain do not require knowledge of the native language at all.
This, coupled with lower costs, is luring Indian students away from the UK. Sara John, 21, picked Germany for her Masters in engineering. My family was not sure if I would be able to adjust to a non-English-speaking country, she says. I was confident about going to the University of Ulm. I had done my homework, researched the course online and discussed it with counsellors. Finally, partly because it cost about half of the fees in the US, I decided to just take the plunge. She is currently in the second year of her course. Most universities offer a semester ticket, which lets you travel to Germanys North-Rhine Westfalia region via local trains and buses for free, she says. There are fewer activities on campus, so travelling is the best way to combat boredom.
Read: Brexit: How Britain leaving the EU may change the face of travel forever
CHOICES FROM THE EAST AND THE WEST
Even China is seeing the number of Indian students jump.
In 2015, 13,578 Indian students headed to China, up from just 765 a decade ago. Most of them pursued medicine and clinical courses, says Grishma Nanavaty, counsellor at study-abroad consultancy ReachIvy. Lower tuition fees, good accommodation, classes taught in English and proximity to India are what account for the upswing.
Germanys relaxed immigration norms for international students, prompted by its low population growth, is a boon to students from India. In 2013-14, about 10,000 Indian students headed to Germany for research-driven courses, says Mathai. After they completed those courses, most got a visa for 18 months to explore job opportunities, Nanavaty says.
Culture should be an important factor when considering a country for study, says Nanavaty.
When it comes to non-English-speaking destinations, you need to do thorough research and be sure you will be able to adapt, she says. Your university may not have the native language as admission criteria, but you will still have to learn it to fit in. Nanavaty suggests connecting with alumni and international students studying at the university to understand the culture, actual job prospects and visa provisions.
Ruchi Panchal, 20, went to pursue MBBS at the Smolensk academy in Russia after she didnt get admission at a good college in India.The degree is valid in India and course content is contemporary, she says.
But settling into the cold northern nation was not easy. It took me a while to adapt to the language, she says. But I wasnt treated like an outsider and the students and the faculty were welcoming. I now have friends from Russia and China and we all know each others native languages, she says happily.
Read: Brexit vote: All you need to know about Britains referendum on leaving the EU
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The number of Indian students going to the UK might have dwindled in five years, but the US continues to be their most sought after destination. Their number was pegged at 1.66 million in the current academic year, a 25 % spike from the last. This makes Indians the fastest growing foreign students group in the US.
The inflow of Indian students to the US registered a decline from 2011 to 2014, but it has witnessed an increase since 2015. The last academic year had witnessed an increase by 29.4 %. US officials attribute it to the easing of entry norms and the highest priority the country accords to people-to-people contact. The dip in UK-bound students due to tightening of post-study visa norms may have also played a role.
The number of Indian students to the UK halved to 2000 in five years primarily due to restriction in post-study visa. Nearly 85% of Indian students head to five countries: the US, UK, Australia, Canada and New Zealand. China and Germany are also emerging as destinations.
Though Chinese top the charts of foreign students with 3.28 million, the rate of increase is only 8 %, according to the Open Doors report published annually by the Institute of International Education in partnership with the US Department of States Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
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Fashion designer-filmmaker Tom Ford says he had no clue anything like homesexuality existed in the world before he turned 17.
The Nocturnal Animals filmmaker, who married Richard Buckley in 2014 after 28 years together, said he had happy relationships with women when he was young and only understood his sexuality when he went to New York as a teenager, reported Female First.
Ford interacting with his fans at the premier of Nocturnal Animals at TIFF, the Toronto International Film Festival. (Reuters)
It was only when I went to New York when I was 17 that I realised I was gay. Before then, I had girlfriends, I was happy with them and they were happy with me. I suppose I didnt really imagine that homosexuality even existed back then. Then I went to New York and it was, Oh. Right. Thats what it is. Ford, 55, said.
The designer is a father to four-year-old son Alexander and feels he took the decision to become a parent at the right time. Im tired of being me and Im ready to give more time to another person. Thats why Im happy now to be a father. Its absolutely the right time in my life, I couldnt have had a son when I was 40 - I was probably too drunk, for one thing.
In winter time, snow-covered mountain landscapes offer an ideal setting in which to discover mindful hiking: a slow and meditative way of walking that combines contemplation of nature and corporeal sensations to achieve a heightened state of mental and physical relaxation.
More focused than traditional trekking, mindful trekking combines a deliberate awareness of oneself and the surrounding landscape.
Using sophrology, yoga and meditation techniques, mindful trekkers treat each step as a cue to fix their attention on different parts of the body with the goal of achieving a heightened state of relaxation. At the same time, the technique aims to intensify perception of sounds, smells, and colours in the surrounding environment.
Mountain guide and sophrologist, Daniel Zanin, who regularly accompanies groups in the French Alps, the Himalayas and the North African desert, explains the synchronized walking and breathing procedure that trekkers use to enhance consciousness.
Breathe in through your nose for the first three steps, hold your breath as though you were under water for the fourth step, and then, over the next three steps, breathe out through your nose until your lungs have emptied completely. Then repeat this cycle for as long as is comfortable.
Using this technique, trekkers can slow their heart rates and fully oxygenate all of the cells of the body.
Mindful trekking is yet to develop as an organised activity in India. There arent any official or registered groups as yet that can slow trek you through the mountains.
However, Not far from Chambery in the Chartreuse range of the French Alps, new enthusiasts eager to discover the benefits of this contemplative art of walking can embark on introductory treks and snowshoe treks, led by Zanin, or shorter walks led by psychotherapist Florence Ratat, another independent trainer in the region.
Zanin is also associated with a team of guides, who came together in 2001 to create the Ecole de la marche hill walking school, who lead half-day, full-day and longer mindful treks in Frances Vosges, Pyrenees, and Northern Alps regions.
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French actor Marion Cotillard says actor Brad Pitt is a good man.
The 41-year-old, who was rumoured to be the cause of the split between actors Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie and stars alongside Pitt in Allied, feels he is such a good person, reports ET Online.
Marion Cotillard (L) and actor Brad Pitt attend the fan event for Paramount Pictures' Allied at Regency Village Theatre on November 9, 2016 in Westwood, California. (AFP)
Brad is such a good man. Of course hes an amazing actor. Hes such a good person that its really not difficult to get along with him, Cotillard said.
The actor says that working with Pitt was nerve-wracking, as she worried about how she would sound in the original reading.
Im always super nervous, because Im like, Oh, my God, if my reading is really bad, what are they going to think?
Cotillards defence of Pitts personality comes after Pitt was cleared of child abuse allegations. He was accused of striking his 15-year-old son Maddox on board a private jet in late September while under the influence of alcohol.
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Wooden carts and horses in the front yard, mooing cows in the barn, walls with hand painted frescoes and food being cooked on a stove fired by cow dung cakes this is not a set for a period drama, but a residential school for boys in the heart of Sabarmati in Ahmedabad.
Canada-based Nandini and Rajeev Vishwakarma wanted an education for their two sons that would equip them with life skills, without alienating them from Indias spiritual and traditional heritage.
After months of research, they flew down to Sabarmati in Gujarat with their sons, nine-year old Kuber and Shiva who is five. Their stop was the Hemchandra Sanskrit Pathshala, a Gurukulam (residential school) for boys run by a Jain trust. Most of the students here are in the age group of 6 to 18 years.
The Vishwakarmas were convinced that the Gurukulam imparted the holistic education they were looking for. And so, Kuber is now at the Gurukulam with 100 other kids. But what sets the Gurukulam apart is that the 5,000 square yard campus, nestled in a residential pocket of Sabarmati, is a trek back in time.
A unique campus
Stone floors are plastered in cow dung as it is supposed to have anti-radiation properties, walls are whitewashed with lime, food is organically produced, milk comes from the 60-odd cows in the barn; in the kitchen, cow dung cake is the cooking fuel and ash works as a detergent. Electricity is the only modern energy source, though its judicious use is underlined several times over. Education is imparted in Sanskrit, Hindi and Gujarati. No fee is charged from students. There are annual holidays and breaks, but no school leaving exams or certification from any school board.
In the Gurukulam kitchen, cow dung cake is used as cooking fuel and ash works as a detergent. Milk comes from the 60-odd cows in the barn. (Smriti Kak Ramachandran/HT Photo )
Why then did the Vishwakarmas Nandini, a nurse and Rajeev, a former journalist pick the Gurukulam? The system of education in Canada can only help them earn a living, but we want them to know the essence of life yoga, meditation and values, says Nandini.
The Sharmas from Singapore too picked the Sabarmati Gurukulam for their 11-year old son Krishendu. The exams were hard, education was expensive and overall I was stressed, says Krishendu about his school in Singapore.
Six months at the Gurukulam, the boy who loved to read and play games on the iPad, says hes happy to be stress free. I miss books (English books are not allowed until the students turn 16), but otherwise I dont miss the video games or TV, he says with the composure of a grown-up.
Started in 2008 by Jain businessman and philanthropist, Uttambhai Shah, and run entirely on donations with no affiliation to any school board, the Gurukulam does not follow the pedagogy of the Macaulay system says, principal Deep Koirala. The accent here is on ancient Indian learning, the Vedic methods of mastering the arts and sciences; students are taught metallurgy or space science based on what the scriptures say.
Skills that matter
The system of education has endeared the Gurukulam to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which has been pushing for a similar pattern of learning. How relevant or prudent is this learning methodology at a time when students are exposed to computer-aided learning and developments in sciences?
Students of the Gurukulum are way ahead of their counterparts in private schools, says Mukul Kanitkar, joint organising secretary of RSS-affiliated Bhartiya Shikshan Mandal (BSM).
He says not only can they compete with their counterparts in streams such as maths and science, but have an edge over them when it comes to life-skills. They can identify herbs, use their hands to create things, weave cloththey are equipped for the world, Kanitkar says.
The BMS, in the forefront of pushing for a change in Indias education policy and removing western influence from history, is spearheading the revival of ancient forms of learning rooted in Indianess. It has found in the Gurukulam an idea that needs incubation. It mentors the Gurukulam, and plans are underway for propagating the concept.
An arts class in progress. (Smriti Kak Ramachandran/HT Photo )
Model school
A similar set up has been started for girls a little distance away from the Gurukulam, where 225 girls are enrolled. This too is run by a Jain sect. Gurukuls run by religious trusts have also come up in Maharashtras Kaneri where there are 100 students and in Rajasthans Jodhpur which has 50 students. About 10-15 organisations that have land and resources approached us to set up Gurukuls; some IITs and IIMs have envisaged interest too. But right now, we cannot expand as this is not a commercial enterprise. In Sabarmati we have a student teacher ratio of 100:150. We are now focusing on orienting right Acharyas (teachers), he says.
Even as Kanitkar holds out the Gurukul model as an answer for undoing the frailties of western learning concepts adopted by Indian schools, he is categorical in wanting to keep the government out. We think sarkar and bazaar (government and businesses) should not have anything to do with imparting education, he says.
For the RSS, implementation of teaching in the mother tongue and a push for revisiting the knowledge in the Vedas, the gurukul system also offers a shot at inculcating nationalism. Though most of the gurukuls are controlled by religious sects, nationalism, bordering on anti-west sentiments is a perspicuous presence.
Take the case of 10- year-old Manjit Singh, a student at the Gurukulam who earlier went to a school in Alwar; he says the Gurukulam is unlike the vinashkari (destructive) education system started by the British. The traditional gurukul system that produced Kings like Lord Ram was destroyed by the British and if we move away from our culture we will also be destroyed, says the aspiring musician with a reasoning that belies his age.
Astrologer Mohan Bhai Patel taking a class on astrology. (Smriti Kak Ramachandran/HT Photo )
At the Gurukulam
Kautilyas treatise on governance Arthashastra, Vedic Maths, music, arts and ayurvedic medicine are part of the curriculum as is astrology
There are no cramped classrooms, groups of students are taught together based on their mental ability and proficiency. A music class, for instance, could have students from 6 to 16 learning together
Students from the age group of 6-18 are enrolled
For recreation there is the traditional gymnastics (Malkhamb) and horse riding
Degree of learning
The lack of certification is not a deterrent for most here; though some students opt to enroll in the National Open School system for a certificate. No students have passed out yet from the Gurukulam, but most want a career in fine arts, music; with some wanting to become monks.
We do not discourage students from enrolling as private candidates, but a majority is happy with the learning outcome here, says Koirala, himself a product of a gurukul.
The Gurukulam also doubles up as an ecosystem for organic practices, a throwback to what was followed centuries ago.
Jeetu Bhai Balad, a trustee, has converted a portion of the complex into a repository for ancient knowledge. On the top floor of a building are workshops for creating special paper and ink used for writing scriptures. We are reviving ancient practices that were eco-friendly. We want to cut down on chemicals that are poisoning the environment and life, he says.
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Villagers of Nama in Chhattisgarhs Bastar region have disputed police claim that Delhi University (DU) professor Nandini Sundar had visited the region as part of a Maoist delegation and instigated the murder of a local tribal early this month.
Sir, Nandini Sundar se kya? Hum tow Maovaadi se dushmani le rahe hain (Sir, what can we have against Nandini Sundar. Our enmity is with the Maoists, a villager told HT.
Shamnath Baghel, a local associated with a village resistance group ranged against the Maoists, was killed by unidentified assailants on November 4, prompting the Chhattisgarh police to book Sundar along with 10 others for the murder. Police said Baghels wife had filed a complaint with the police naming Sundar.
Sundar, at the forefront of a campaign against police excesses in Bastar, has dubbed the police action as a gross abuse of power. Academics and rights activists say the Chhattisgarh police carry a grudge against Sundar for petitioning the Supreme Court against their excesses.
Baghels wife, Vimala, too has rejected the police version, telling a TV channel that she had not identified anyone among the attackers and had not named Sundar in her complaint. Vimala gave birth to a child a day before her husband was killed.
Villagers said none of them had seen the assailants. It was 9.30 pm when they came that day. They killed him within five minutes and fled away. We had no time to react, one of them said.
Police in Bastar also claimed that Sundar had visited the village in May under a fake name and warned the residents against supporting the police in their anti-Maoist drive.
The villagers some of whom included members of Baghels extended family said Sundar on the contrary had advised them to stay clear of both the Maoists and the police.
Usne aisa bola .. ki ek taraf kuan hai ..ek tarah khai hai..dono se bach ke raho ( She told us that on one side there is well and on the other side there is a trench. Stay clear of both), a villager, who did not want to be named for safety reasons, recollected.
They also contradicted the police claim that Sundar had visited Nama as part of a Maoist delegation. Un log kahe hum manavadhikaar kee taraf se aayein hain (those people said they had come on behalf of civil rights group), a villager said.
Tribals of insurgency-hit districts of Chhattisgarh, where more than 3,500 people have reportedly been killed in the past 10 years because of the unending conflict, say they are caught between the Maoists and the police, accusing both of atrocities in the event of not toeing their line. Bastar is among the worst affected regions of the state.
SRP Kalluri, Bastars controversial inspector-general of police, dismissed the villagers version. In any case, we dont care a damn about what you write, he told HT.
Sundar said last Tuesday that the FIR against her was patently absurd.
The battle lines are drawn, and the Centre and the Opposition are set to clash in the winter session of Parliament over the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 banknotes.
The session will start on Wednesday and continue till December 16.
The governments key agenda passage of financial reforms of the goods and services tax could face stiff competition for time as its drive against black money threatens to disrupt Parliament.
The Opposition has mounted pressure on the government, while peoples patience wore thin as they waited in long queues for hours outside banks and ATM kiosks to withdraw money after 86% of the total currency in circulation by value was scrapped from November 9.
Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee spoke to Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi on Sunday evening to ensure a united Opposition against the demonetisation drive. Banerjee also spoke to Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad, CPI(M) boss Sitaram Yechury and her Delhi counterpart Arvind Kejriwal.
The chaos, which the government promised will go away in about a month, has given the BJPs rivals a platform to unite before Parliaments winter session.
West Bengal chief minister Banerjee is looking at an ambitious front comprising the Trinamool, Samajwadi Party, AAP, RJD and the Left parties to demand a rollback. The plan is to corner the government over the plight of the people.
The face-off is also expected to dominate the all-party meeting on Monday evening, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet leaders from across the political spectrum.
Trinamools Derek OBrien and Congresss Anand Sharma have already served notices for discussions on demonetisation on the floor of the House.
If the united Opposition decides to create chaos in Parliament, it might be too difficult for the National Democratic Alliance government to pass the GST Bill during the winter session.
The only silver lining for the government is the BJD and JD(U) have not joined the Opposition ranks. We have supported the demonetisation drive, said BJDs Lok Sabha floor leader Bhartruhari Mahtab.
Sources in the government say there is little chance of a rollback of the decision to scrap the Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 banknotes.
In an impassioned speech on Sunday, Modi had asked people to give him 50 days to sort out the glitches, saying he left his home and family to serve the nation.
President Pranab Mukherjee has also publicly supported the governments move and appealed to the people not to panic.
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Its been four days since Indian banks started dispensing new currency notes. But despite standing in long queues, braving the weather, many people still went back home empty-handed. So, a week after Prime Minister Narendra Modi banned Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes, people are scurrying for cash by trick or toil.
Here are 10 tricks people are employing across the country.
1. Making friends with benefits
Tired of standing in line, people in Delhi have started befriending the ATM guards. They leave their phone numbers behind, asking the guard to call them as soon as the ATM machine is refilled. The guard gets a handsome tip in return for this favour. Paanwalas near ATMs offer similar services. Who doesnt need some usable cash these days?
2. Office assistants are life savers!
People who run small offices are sending their office staff to stand in banks queues in Mumbai. At one time, several members from the same establishment stand in one or more queue to make sure the flow of money continues.
3. Wheres granddad?
Senior citizens have a dedicated, much shorter queue in many places. Theyve become the big earners for families this week in Mumbai as they are able to get money much quicker than the rest.
4. Petrol pumps get cunning
Some petrol pumps in Thane are allowing people to swipe their credit or debit cards and give the customers cash instead of fuel. This fuel is then sold in black market by the pumps to keep their books in order.
5. Kal nakad, aaj udhar
A new udhaari, or credit, system has developed in several neighbourhoods in Bhopal. Green grocers, milkmen, kirana shops, and even restaurants are allowing credit to regular customers.
6. Take my place
At some places in Bhopal, migrant labourers are being used to get the money exchanged. Contractors are giving them Rs 100 as wages to stand in queue to get the permitted Rs 4,500 exchanged.
7. God comes to the rescue
Some churches in Kochi, Kerala, have opened their offering boxes, advising believers to return the money once the shortage is over.
8. Broke students earn an easy buck
In Lucknow, students are using the opportunity to get some extra cash. They are using their own IDs to stand in queues, and changing other peoples money for a cut.
9. Air travel on cards? Not really
Some people in Lucknow have chosen to book advance air and train tickets for upper-class travel. They plan to cancel these tickets later in exchange for new cash.
10. Salaries come early
Owners of plywood factories in Yamunanagar district are paying salaries in advance to the workers to adjust their Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes. We have decided to pay advance salary of about six months to the workers so that they can deposit it into their bank accounts as there is no monitoring for below Rs 2.5 lakh in every account, said an accountant of a plywood factory located on Yamunanagar-Radaur road.
Banks across 18 states remained closed on Monday on occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti and ATMs werent stocked with money, sparking fears that public anger will rise over a cash crunch following a decision to scrap large-denomination currency.
Queues of people waiting to withdraw or exchange cash had got longer over the weekend and many say the crowd will swell manifold when banks re-open on Tuesday.
But given the pressure on the banking system following Prime Minister Narendra Modi surprise move to demonetise Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes, a few state-run banks are running skeletal branches active on Monday, said a banker with the State Bank of India.
Banks are open in south Indian states, Gujarat, Tripura, Goa and Kerala among others.
But in large swathes of the country, ATMs werent refilled with money a serious problem given the growing resentment among people about the lack of cash at hand.
Finance minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday assured people that banks will operate at full capacity on
November 14 in states where Guru Nanaks birthday is not a holiday. But the trouble is that is more than half of Indian states and union territories, it is a bank holiday.
Our bank branches are operational in 18 states to serve the customers uninterrupted after the demonetisation was announced, the Axis Bank spokesperson told Hindustan Times.
Experts also fear a full-day holiday might throw the entire process of currency circulation out of gear. It may also take more time to refill ATMs with cash once they reopen on Tuesday, leading to more chaos.
SRP Kalluri, Chhattisgarhs controversial inspector-general of police, has threatened Hindustan Timess Raipur-based journalist for seeking clarifications on academic Nandini Sundars alleged involvement in a tribal mans murder in Bastar this month.
Aap log aise karenge to hum aapko jaane hi nahi denge ..mere reference se aap gaye the, (If you all do like this, we will not let you visit you went with my reference to Bastar), an angry Kalluri told Ritesh Mishra.
Mishra had asked him for a comment after local residents in Bastars Nama village--where tribal man Samnath Baghel was killed--told HT that they had nothing against Sundar, who was booked for murder along with 10 others.
Kalluris words had an ominous ring as journalists have been at the receiving end in Bastar for what activists say are persistent attempts by the local police to intimidate the media. Four local journalists have been arrested since last year while a visiting BBC newsman was forced to leave the district. Another was forced to flee the region after being accused of having Maoist links.
The spate of arrests and the resultant outcry forced the Chhattisgarh government to curtail polices powers to arrest journalists.
However, the police in Bastar set a precedent last month when they publicly burnt effigies of activists critical of them.
Bastar is among the worst-affected regions of insurgency-hit Chhattisgarh where both Maoists and the police face accusations of rights abuses. Access to interiors of Bastar is largely controlled either by the police and its sponsored local vigilante groups or the Maoists.
Insisting that the police had enough evidence against those booked, Kalluri told Mishra that he would not entertain him any further. You write whatever that comes to your mind. We dont care a damn. For you, Bastar is a mazaak (joke).
Mishra had called Kalluri after visiting Nama where Baghel, a member of a local anti-Maoist resistance group, was killed on November 4. Police subsequently booked Sundar and the others for the murder, saying the Delhi University professor had visited the village as part of a Maoist delegation some months earlier and threatened Baghel not to support the police in their campaign against the insurgents.
Mishra, who had informed Kalluri about his plans to visit Nama, was told by villagers that they had not seen the killers of Baghel and had no complaints against Sundar, an author and activist who had moved the Supreme Court against police excesses in Chhattisgarh. They also disputed police claim that Sundar had visited as part of a Maoist team and said she had introduced herself as a rights activists.
The government relaxed cash withdrawal norms on Monday to help small businesses and the rural poor, but a bank holiday in 18 states and empty ATMs piled more misery on people from last weeks surprise recall of high-value banknotes.
The latest decisions are part of government efforts to ease a cash crunch following the abrupt withdrawal of 500-and 1,000-rupee bills by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to fight counterfeiting and black money or wealth hidden from taxmen.
The announcements came after a meeting chaired by Modi late on Sunday. But with banks closed and ATMs dry they did little to help the situation on Monday.
Read | Demonetisation has ended terror-funding, stone-pelting in Kashmir: Parrikar
Banks were open in south Indian states, Gujarat, Tripura and Goa, among others. In the rest of the country, most ATMs werent even refilled, sparking fears the crowds will swell manifold when banks reopen on Tuesday.
But Modi on Monday reiterated an appeal to the people to bear with him, saying demonetisation will ultimately benefit poor Indians.
After demonetisation, the poor are enjoying a sound sleep while the rich are running from pillar-to-post to buy sleeping pills, he said, speaking at a public rally in Uttar Pradesh.
I am trained to make kadak (strong) tea since my childhood and I know poor people like this type of tea, while the rich feel its bitterness, he said, referring to his childhood days as a tea seller.
But the less-than-perfect execution of the demonetisation plan has seen a united opposition sharpen its attack against the move ahead of the winter session of Parliament starting Wednesday.
At the all-party meeting, the opposition leaders raised concerns over the demonetisation scheme and sought to debate it on priority in Parliament.
Earlier in the day, top parties, including the Congress, Janata Dal (United), Trinamool Congress, and the Left parties, met on Monday to draw up a common floor strategy against the government. The opposition has called for rolling back the plan, saying the move will not help fight black money but only put people through hardship.
Leftist activists shout slogans against Indian prime minister Narendra Modi as they carry his effigy, decorated with posters of rupee notes, during a protest rally in Kolkata on November 14, 2016. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 14, urged Indians to give him more time to resolve a cash crunch that followed the withdrawal of high-value banknotes from circulation, as rival politicians lashed out at his handling of the crisis. / AFP PHOTO / Dibyangshu SARKAR (AFP)
Hours before that, economic affairs secretary Shaktikanta Das threw a lifeline to millions of traders crippled by a cash crunch and those in the countryside with limited access to banks.
He said businesses with current accounts active for three months can withdraw Rs 50,000 a week. The government also allowed a network of so-called banking correspondents, who travel to rural areas to provide people with access to banking services, to carry more cash.
Read | New notes in ATMs soon, withdrawal limit raised: 10 updates on demonetisation
ATMs will start dispensing new Rs 500 notes by Tuesday, Das said. He said an extended daily limit of ATM cash withdrawals Rs 2,500 from Rs 2,000 will apply to only re-calibrated machines.
The process of updating ATMs to dispense the new currency which come in a fresh design and size is expected to take up to three weeks.
Political activities in poll-bound Uttar Pradesh have slowed down after the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes.
Some political parties, which had already announced the dates of rallies or public meetings before high denomination notes were scrapped last week, have either cancelled or deferred their programme.
A case in point is that of the second phase of chief minister Akhilesh Yadavs Vikas se Vijay Rath Yatra. It was scheduled to start from Jhansi on Monday. The Samajwadi Party (SP) is now reworking the dates for the second leg of the yatra in Bundelkhand region of UP.
We will release the revised schedule of the rath yatra in a day or two, said SP spokesperson and cabinet minister Rajendra Chowdhary told HT.
He said the campaign to highlight the achievements of the Akhilesh Yadav government, which was flagged off by SP patriarch from Lucknow on November 3, would restart by November-end now.
The party has two other important events lined up: birthday celebrations of its national president Mulayam Singh Yadav, who turns 78 on November 22, in Lucknow and launch of the poll campaign by Mulayam, a day later from Ghazipur in eastern UP on November 23.
The birthday celebrations are expected to be low-key. The Janeshwar Mishra Trust headed by chief minister Akhilesh Yadav, which has decided to organise the birthday bash, has just one billboard outside its office congratulating netaji (Mulayam) on his 78th birthday.
The Samajwadi Party is not the only political outfit whose plans have been hit.
The Congress move for early distribution of party tickets for 2017 assembly elections will also be delayed now to mid or end of December or even more.
Initially, the Congress proposed to begin distribution of tickets by November-end or early December.
Yes, we wanted to declare our tickets early. But we will delay the announcement of tickets by a week or two in view of prevailing situation in view of union governments decision to demonetize Rs 500 and Rs 1000 currency notes. We are concerned about peoples problems. The situation is going from bad to worse. We will begin the exercise of distributing tickets after watching the situation for some time, said state Congress chief Babbar on telephone.
Also, the partys plan to send 200 teams of Dalit leaders to reach out to nearly 8000 Dalit-dominated villages across the state has been delayed.
We are concerned about the problems being faced by the people now. We do not want to upset the people by being seen pursuing political agenda when they are facing serious problems. We will rework our programme now, said a senior party leader who did not wish to be named.
The Congress Rahul Sandesh Yatra had ended in different districts on November 10. After that, the party had proposed to send teams to Dalit dominated villages.
The party is yet to work out a final date to send them to the villages. UPCC scheduled caste department chairman Bhagwati Chaudhary said: We will send the teams soon.
Anticipating a rough ride in the winter session of Parliament over the demonetisation move, the BJP turned the tables on the Opposition on Monday by questioning their intent in opposing the move.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi told NDA allies that there was no need to be defensive on the governments decision as there is widespread support for it and people are ready to face hardships for larger gains.
He urged NDA allies to go to the public and explain the long-term benefits of demonetisation in curbing corruption and black money.
Union minister Venkaiah Naidu said the opposition parties who have criticised the Centres move would be given a befitting reply in Parliament.
People are not worried about the problems they are facing, but they are looking at the larger interests of the country, he said.
Later in the day, at the all-party meeting chaired by Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, almost all opposition parties said demonetisation had not been properly implemented and had led to chaos.
Read | Oppn meets to chalk out plan to corner Modi over demonetisation in Parliament
Congresss Lok Sabha leader Mallikarjun Kharge said, At the meeting, leaders raised issues like the surgical strike inside Pakistan and that the suicide of a jawan over OROP. Some members demanded a debate on alleged gagging of freedom of speech and the merger of the railway budget.
Trinamool Congress leader Sudip Bandopadhyay slammed the government for scrapping high-value banknotes without any back-up plan. Mamata Banerjee will go to the President on November 16. PM should have held wider consultations with state governments.
Though the Telengana Rashtriya Samiti (TRS) appreciated Modis plan, it also said implementation was poor.
Read | Oppn attacks Modi over demonetisation, Mamata seeks anti-BJP front
Earlier, the leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad, labelled the demonetisation move a scripted scam.
It came suddenly and information was leaked to the ruling party, he alleged.
CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury demanded that old banknotes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 remain legal tender till December 31 to give relief to people.
He further alleged that Modi is aware of who had stashed black money abroad, but is not making them public.
Read | Battle lines drawn over demonetisation, govt braces for stormy winter session
The website and database of Indias consulate in New York have allegedly been hacked by the same hacker who dumped data from seven Indian missions in Europe and Africa online last week.
The hacker, who goes by the name Kapustkiy on Twitter, claimed responsibility for hacking the Indian consulates website on Monday.
The leaked database, containing names, email IDs and phone numbers of mission staffers, was published on pastebin.com. At the time of filing this report, the database was still available to the public on pastebin.
There was no immediate word from the external affairs ministry.
Kapustkiy told HT about the data dump: It could have been way worse, believe me. It could be entries of around 7500 people, but I decided to leak only 400 entries belonging only to the employees.
Read | Websites of 7 Indian missions hacked, data allegedly put online
The hacker claimed the whole database was not posted online out of respect for the privacy of people whose data was hosted on the site. According to the hacker, the database contained complete addresses and zip codes as well.
I dont want to cause any damage, just want them to pay attention to the security on their websites. I have tried to reach out to them multiple times but they only respond when the media reports these hacks, the hacker added.
The websites have a SQL vulnurability. Even a six-year-old could breach it, Kapustkiy had told HT about the previous hack that targeted seven Indian missions in Africa and Europe.
A SQL vulnerability is a security flaw in a database. A hacker inserts malicious content into the database by using forms on the website, accessing the website code or via email. This malicious content compromises the security of the database and gives the hacker unfettered access.
An example of such an attack was the Sony hack of 2011 when one million accounts and passwords were released online.
Its not hard to fix it. You just have to be aware of such things because most of the time you want contact them and say that they have vulnerabilities, they just ignore you, Kapustkiy added.
The hacker claimed to be under the age of 18 and a resident of the Netherlands. The hacker calls himself a grey hat and claimed the hack was an attempt to inform administrators about vulnerabilities on their websites.
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All government schools along the International Border and the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir will reopen on Tuesday, the state government said on Monday.
More than 400 schools along the border in Kathua, Samba, Jammu, Rajouri and Poonch districts will start functioning from Tuesday, divisional commissioner of Jammu region Dr Pawan Kotwal told Hindustan Times.
Pakistan had been targeting civilian areas and that is why the schools were shut but for the past over a week, some normalcy has returned to the border areas. Therefore, keeping in view academic loss of children, the government has decided to reopen all the schools along the IB and the LoC, a home department official said.
Read | Amid J-K crisis, board exams to be held twice, students can choose Nov or Mar
The state government on November 1 had ordered closure of government schools in the border areas over repeated shelling and firing from Pakistan. As many as 174 schools in Jammu district, 84 in Balakote sector of Poonch district, and 45 schools in Samba district were closed since then.
The government is keeping a close watch on the situation, the source said about the possibility of Pakistan again targeting civilian areas.
Pakistan has been violating the ceasefire agreement with impunity since the Indian Army carried out surgical strikes on terrorist launch pads across the LoC on September 29.
Read | Arsonists strike again: 25 schools torched in Kashmir during ongoing unrest
The surgical strikes were Indias response to a terrorist attack on the Uri air base on September 18, a couple of months after the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani in an encounter, resulting in mass protests in the Kashmir Valley. As many as 37 schools were torched during the unrest.
Following political debates over holding exams in either November or March, the state government in an unprecedented decision decided to hold the Class 10 and 12 board exams twice in November with 50% syllabus and in March with the full syllabus for students who fail to appear this time.
However, according to the data provided by the Directorate of School Education, out of total 126,593 students, 105,719 students (over 80%) opted to appear in this months exams.
Some 48,000 students appeared for the Class 12 exams at 484 centres on Monday, and more than 55,000 will take the Class 10 exams from Tuesday.
Read | Class 12 state board exams begin amid tight security in Kashmir
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An Indian national was killed and a Nepali policeman injured in a heavy exchange of fire between police and an armed group of smugglers in central Rautahat district.
Acting on a tip-off that a huge cache of arms was being smuggled into the district via the Lalbakaiya river embankment at Dewahi VDC-8, a police team reached the site, but the gang comprising of about four individuals opened fire at the team.
Police fired in retaliation, killing a gang member -- identified as 44-year-old Tejhilal Saha from Bihar -- and injuring a Nepali policeman, deputy superintendent of police Nabin Krishna Bhandari.
A rifle, a home-made pistol and some bullets were recovered from the deceased. Others in the group are on the run and search for them is underway.
On Saturday afternoon, from the complex of Saraswati Vidya Mandir School in Lucknows Nirala Nagar, BJP president Amit Shah flagged off 75 high-tech video raths. It had, along with the partys lotus symbol, a sign which read UP ki Mann ki Baat.
The stated objective was simple. Get people to contribute ideas, articulate local grievances and problems, express aspirations. This could be done by giving a missed call to a number and recording ones message; or by accessing free Wi-Fi when the rath is near and making submissions online; or by filling in physical forms and depositing it in 15,000 Aspiration Boxes to be placed all across the state.
This would then be used to frame a vision document for the state, explained Shah.
The real objective, as a BJP official explained, is two-fold. It will enhance our visibility and connect us with millions of people. And it will give people ownership of the party and its agenda. The fact that the rath would have a life-size cut out of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the campaigns slogan was a take-off on the PMs radio show, was done to cash in on his popularity.
Read | BJP to kick-start campaign for change in UP, to cover all 403 assembly segments
The innovative campaign tool is just one element of the larger BJP campaign strategy in UP. The party has decided to invest all its energy in the state which catapulted Modi to prime ministership, with an absolute majority, in 2014. At the state level, however, the BJP has not been in power for over a decade. And despite being called a Hindi-heartland party, never has it completed a term in office in UP (nor, for that matter, has it ever won Bihar on its own).
The election of 2017, BJP has decided, is its best chance to correct that gap. Success will be a vindication of the Modi governments record. And a setback will erode the PMs capital and make things tougher for 2019.
HT tracked Amit Shah in Lucknow on Saturday, and spoke to a range of party leaders and strategists to piece together its planwhich hinges on setting the agenda, getting the social combination right with focus on 60% of the demographics, making a rural push, building a robust booth-level organisational network, and massive public outreach.
Setting the Agenda
Shahs day began at an event organised by HTs sister publication, Hindustan, in Lucknow. He was addressing a national audience on television, but also the citys influential political, business and opinion-making elite.
His message had four key threads.
The first was: Try us out. The country has seen governments run by Congress, Communists, and regional, family- and caste-based parties, and us. Compare and judge, he declared, citing BJPs governance achievements in MP, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Gujarat. UP itself had seen the Congress, BSP and SP, and the BJP, he appealed, deserved a chance.
The second thread of the speech hinged on how everyone else was bad. It is time for politics of performance rather than politics on caste, dynasties, appeasement and vote-banks. In one sentence, Shah targeted multiple rivalsSP and Congress on the dynasty question, of particular relevance in the backdrop of the family feud in SP; SP and BSP on caste politics; and all three parties for appeasementwhich is a code, in the BJP lexicon, for appealing to the Muslim vote.
Read | For BJP, Cong, Uttar Pradesh election a dress rehearsal for Lok Sabha polls
The third thread was governance. When asked for his priority if elected to power, Shah said law and order. This would result in investment, infrastructure and employment. BJP is convinced that law and order is the single most important issue in both urban and rural UP, given SPs image as having provided patronage to goons. But here it faces tough competition from BSP, where Mayawatis term has been marked by law and order. To burnish BJPs credentials on this count, Shah often recalls the term of Kalyan Singh. But whether the younger generation can relate to it is questionable.
And the fourth was how BJP had provided a strong anti-terror and anti-corrupt government at the Centre. Shah claimed the move to ban Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes had been a setback for terrorists, Naxalites, fake currency networks, those in arms and narcotics businesses. A party official subsequently told us, In one stroke, it has ended the perception that we are a pro-rich, suit boot ki sarkar. We are aware of the suffering, but it is ten days of pain, and this inconvenience will dissipate and people will praise us for both the surgicals we have doneagainst Pakistan and black money.
Getting the 60%
But while the narrative and agenda constitute an important element in determining elections, the key in India is often getting the social combination right.
A key party strategist told HT, In the last two years, our entire focus in UP has been expanding the social base. UP has, very broadly speaking, 20% general castes, 40% backwards, 20% Dalits, and 20% Muslims. Our politics was confined to 20% general castes: the Brahmans, Thakurs, Banias.
A section of the OBCs were with the BJP under Kalyan Singh, but they drifted away. This was reflected in the 2012 election, when the party won just over 15% of the vote. (In 2014, by contrast, it went on to win 42%).
But now, he argued, the BJP had systematically expanded into other constituencies. Ideally, we would like to do politics of the 100%, but for now, we are focusing on 60% of the demographic. This would be all communities besides 20% Muslims, 10% Yadavs with SP and 10% or so Jatavs with BSP. This 60% is bothered about crime, corruption and existing caste politics of SP and BSP; we speak their language.
And this focus has manifested itself in concrete ways. The official pointed out that BJP has won all the 17 reserved constituencies in 2014, including two Jatavs, Mayawatis core caste base. 26 out of the 28 OBC candidates who contested on the party ticket won. Recognising that many won because there was a Modi wave, the party decided to make these changes more institutionalised.
Read | Yadav feud SPs fixed match to divert attention from Akhileshs failures: BJP
The state president, Keshav Prasad Maurya, is an OBC. The official said, 37 out of 75 district chiefs are OBCs or Dalits. 30% of all our state units now consist of these groups. These communities will come to us when they see their faces reflected. The main party hoarding now has four faces: Rajnath Singh (Thakur), Kalraj Mishra (Brahman), Uma Bharati (Lodh), and Maurya (Kuswaha).
And in ticket distribution, this balance will be maintained. The party will have to give Dalits tickets in 85 reserved constituencies in any case the bulk would be to communities besides Jatavs. Given the old loyalty of upper castes, they would get more than their share of population. But a conscious effort would be made to give non-Yadav OBCs more tickets. (In Bihar, the party gave over two dozen tickets to Yadavs hoping for a split in Lalu Prasads vote, which did not happen. It is unlikely in UP.) The party is also organising 200 backward gatherings, where representatives from two constituencies would merge into one meeting.
The Kuswaha-Saini-Maurya-Sakya vote is 12% and they are solidly with us. The Lodh vote, which got disturbed in 2012, is back. We also have more Kurmi leaders than any other party from Santosh Gangawar to Vinay Katiyar to our ally Anupriya Patel, said another party official.
In west UP, anecdotal evidence suggests that Jats are unhappy with BJP on a range of issues, from reservations and Haryana agitation to cane prices for which they blame the Centre as much as the state. But the party leadership feels that despite disillusionment, Jats will vote for the party in the polarised post-Muzaffarnagar landscape. Issues like the alleged migration from Kairana, which was rebutted by independent reports, are proof that BJP would be happy to stoke this.
No caste group votes homogeneously, as CSDS data and political scientist Gilles Verniers work on UP has shown. But getting even half or two-thirds of the voters of a caste group on ones side boosts the fortunes of a party. BJP hopes to achieve precisely this with Brahmans, Thakurs, Banias, Lodh, Kurmi, Kuswaha, Jats, Valmiki and Pasi voters of UP.
BJP national president Amit Shah with UP state BJP president K P Maurya during 'UP Ke Mann Ki Baat' function in Lucknow on Saturday. (PTI)
The Rural Push
The party strategist quoted above admitted that BJPs other weakness was its strong urban focus. There have been efforts to correct this structural legacy too.
The BJP decided to put up candidates close to the party for district panchayat elections. Out of 3,100 seats, he said, BJP contested in about 2,800 seats. We won 347 seats, lost 324 by 100 votes or less, and came second in another 300 seats.
This, BJP feels, has achieved multiple objectives. For one, the party registered a presence in the rural political landscape. Two, it has created a pool of 2,800 rural leaders who are willing to carry the party flag, out of which close to 1,000 are significant power players in their respective areas.
Given UPs significantly rural population, this is the beginning. The idea is to create leadership of the future and expand our base.
Two other groups have been identified as potentially separate vote-banks who need to be wooed with a different set of promises. The fact that women voted in large numbers for Modi in 2014, and Nitish Kumar in 2015, is making BJP realise they increasingly exercise independent agency. The party hopes to woo them with the law and order plank, since lawlessness affects their security almost immediately.
The second such group is the youth. BJP has a handicap hereit does not have a youth face like Akhilesh Yadav, and is seeking to address this gap through separate youth-centric meetings, the promise of delivery on development and Modis image.
Organisation and Outreach
The BJP has been enhancing its presence at the booth level. Out of 147,000 booths in the state, it claims to have set up 121,000 units. Six events, at the regional level, with approximately 20,000-25,000 booth-level chairmen, have already been held, each addressed by Amit Shah. A second round of meeting was held at the constituency level, with 70-97% of booth unit workers present on an average. A third round of meetings, at the mandal level which has about 100 booths, is to be held. And a final round at the sector level, which is home to 10 booths, will be held in close to 12,500 sectors.
The booth level worker is the key on polling day. He mobilises voters, ensures smooth polling, organises transport if necessary, and gives instant feedback. By the time election approaches, we would have set up, checked, cross-checked and institutionalised these mechanisms at the most micro level, says the party strategist who has a key role in the UP elections.
And amidst all this, the party has launched four Parivartan Yatras to cover all 403 assembly constituencies, over 160 days. When asked about reports that these yatras had not drawn sufficient crowds, a leader explained, These yatras are stopping in multiple places, everyday. Instead of getting a huge crowd at one place, the idea is to go directly to the people. Every day, if you add it all up, they are connecting thousands of people. Modi would address six sabhas in the course of these yatras.
This plan is only till the end of December. We would have through Mann ki Baat, yatras, big and small mass meetings, youth, women and backward centric gatherings reached out to a crore voters. And then, depending on how politics evolves and the response, the party will chalk out its plan for the final two months of the campaign.
Crowds gathered during BJP rally at Ramabai Ambedkar rally in Lucknow on September 21, 2016. (Deepak Gupta/ Hindustan Times)
The Leadership Challenge
The key question BJP has had to confront in the UP election is about its CM face. This is quite ironical, for the party is a victim of its own success. It presidentialised campaigns, and now is facing a challenge when it does not have a face. The official explanation is they would go with collective leadership. And that the party had not declared a candidate in Haryana and Maharashtra, yet won.
But the whisper in the BJP corridor is that declaring a CM face would upset the careful plans of building a wider social alliance. If an upper caste face is projected, the OBC outreach may dissipate; if an OBC is picked, upper castes may get alienated and even backwards of other communities may not be as energised. The problem is compounded by the fact that there is no obvious, acceptable face in the state with the stature to compete against an Akhilesh Yadav or a Mayawati.
The other challenge for the party will be Muslim consolidation in favour of one particular party. In Bihar, this tilted the scales and BJP would be hoping that the Muslims split between SP and BSP. Our reading is that in the west, Muslims may go with BSP and in the centre and east, they may prefer SP, a party official said. A strong Dalit-Muslim alliance is the partys nightmare since in a triangular contest, it could give Mayawati a strong 30% plus vote share. But BJP feels that this is unlikely: SP remains in the fray, and there are contradictions between Dalits and Muslims and votes would not get transferred easily.
There is another difference from Bihar. Because there were no other competitors for the minority vote, their concerns were deliberately downplayed to avoid counter Hindu mobilisation. The clamour for Muslim votes in UP opens up this door in UP. UP has also generally been more ripe for communally polarisation than Bihar. Would the BJP sharpen it further? No, we would not have to do much. As SP, BSP and Congress do more to win the Muslim vote. Hindus will get naturally irritated and consolidate, argued one of the leaders HT spoke to.
But the most important challenge for the BJP would be operationalising the grand plan it has designed for UP 2017. From setting the agenda to carving out the wide social coalition of the 60%, from selling sudden moves like demonetisation to becoming attractive for the young, from sustaining the organisational momentum to tackling unanticipated events, its real test starts now, as the campaign heats up.
Read | BJP firms up poll strategy in UP, to focus on non-Yadav OBCs
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Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi whether after 50 days, every citizen would get Rs 15 lakh each in their bank accounts, as he had promised in his 2014 election campaign.
Prasad was reacting to the PMs appeal to people to give him 50 days and brave the limited inconvenience after his November 8 announcement to demonetise old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 banknotes.
In a series of tweets on Sunday evening, Prasad said if people, after all this action, still did not get Rs 15 lakh each in their bank accounts, it would mean it was a furgical strike (farcical strike) and a fake encounter of the common man. He sought an assurance from the PM that every individual account would be credited with Rs 15 lakh each after recovering black money within the next two months.
Casting aspersions on Modis intention to root out corruption, he also questioned the governments prudence in introducing Rs 2000 denomination notes.
Taking potshots at the PM, Prasad tweeted, Defaulter poonjipati paanch sitaron mein, aam aadmi kataron mein aap videshi nazaron mein. Aur aap ye keh rahein ho jo kataron mein hain wo chor-nakare hain? (Defaulter industrialists are in five-star hotels, common man are in queue and you are sightseeing abroad. And, you say that those standing in queues are rogues and useless people?)
Referring to the post demonetisation cash crunch, Prasad said while pushing the country into such a crisis, the PM had initially said it would be only for a few days. Thereafter (Arun) Jaitley (Union finance minister) said it would be for 15 days and now you say 50 days. The poor are struggling, Mr PM, Prasad said in another tweet.
Without mentioning specific cases of public anger, he said the situation had become explosive. There have been instances when people, standing in queues at banks and ATMs, have engaged in brawls and also damaged ATMs for lack of cash.
While reiterating that he, too, was against black money, Prasad said the governments implementation of its decision was skewed, putting the common man to severe hardship.
Prasad asked if the government would make public after 50 days the figures on the number of deaths due to shock, lack of food and medical treatment for want of cash in hand despite having money in their bank accounts.
While questioning the PM if it was a ploy to save big industrial defaulters, the RJD chief sought to know from Modi the debt they owed to banks and what action was the government taking against them.
With people standing in serpentine queues for hours to exchange old high banknotes with small currency, Prasad also sought to know from Modi how much productivity and manhours have been lost so far.
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If you spot Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal or his West Bengal counterpart Mamata Bannerjee in the Parliament complex, dont rush to say hello or click their pictures, at least not without permission. This is part of the guidelines issued by the Lok Sabha secretariat for TV reporters and photographers.
If they do, they run the risk of getting suspended from covering Parliament for two days.
Ahead of the winter session of Parliament from Wednesday, the press and public relations wing of the Lok Sabha secretariat issued an exhaustive set of dos and donts for the media, which includes not interacting with anyone who is not a minister or a member of Parliament without prior permission.
Media persons will not interact/interview/photograph anyone else other than ministers/members of Parliament without permission from the press & public relations wing, say the guidelines issued on Wednesday.
Parliament officials, however, say there is nothing new about these guidelines.
According to the guidelines, mediapersons are forbidden to talk without permission of the PR staff to former MPs or ministers, CMs, MLAs and prominent personalities who visit the Parliament complex.
Journalists will also have brush up on what they can and cant do while covering the proceedings in Parliament. They are supposed to take reactions from or interview MPs at earmarked places only. Reporters may take prior appointments with ministers/MPs and request them to approach the designated media stands for interviews/reactions.
Designated areas for mounting camera and recording bites will be sacrosanct and speaking to MPs or ministers on or off the record elsewhere is forbidden.
Read | Battle lines drawn over demonetisation, govt braces for stormy winter session
In an attack on Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said eastern Uttar Pradesh would have seen the development required in the region had the HM Patel Commissions recommendations had been implemented five decades ago.
Speaking at the BJPs Parivartan Yatra rally in Ghazipur, Modi on Monday said he had launched several schemes that would ensure development and end poverty in the region. The Prime Minister said his government would construct roads and bridge, besides completing the laying of a railway track between Tadighat and Mau.
The Congress ignored recommendations of the Patel commission, which was set up by Pandit Nehru, to ensure development in Ghazipur and adjoining areas. But I have started implementing all recommendations on the birth anniversary of Pandit Nehru.
The Patel commission was set up during Nehrus tenure as prime minister in 1962 after a local MP, Vishwanath, brought attention to the plight of the poverty-stricken people in Parliament. Such was the condition, Vishwanath said, that the poor had to pick up wheat grains from dung and grind them to satiate their hunger.
The Patel commission had recommended construction of roads, bridges and laying of a railway line, but none of these was done.
Implementation has begun today since construction of bridge on the Ganga has started today, Modi said after laying the foundation for rail-cum-road bridge on the river Ganga on Ghazipur-Mau-Tadighat rail route. He also laid the foundation stone for doubling of the railway track between Ghazipur and Ballia, and flagged off the superfast Shabd Bhedi Express between Ghazipur and Kolkata.
I have come here on November 14 deliberately to expose those who did not work towards fulfilling what Pandit Nehru had wanted to do. Today on Pandit Nehrus birthday, I pledge to reopen those files, which his party and family PMs never did, he said, referring to the plan for the rail bridge over the Ganga in Ghazipur.
Talking about the steps taken by his government for the development of eastern UP, he asked: Who imagined the fertiliser plant in Gorakhpur will get fresh lease of life? This government has done it. Poorvanchal has got AIIMS also.
Modi began his speech in Bhojpuri, and to reiterate the states significance, added that he was the ninth Prime Minister from Uttar Pradesh.
I salute this land(Ghazipur) which gave birth to Vir Abdul Hamid, who taught Pakistan a lesson in the 1965 war, he said.
Opposition parties, including the Congress and Trinamool Congress, have been attacking the BJP-led NDA for bringing misery upon the common man through the demonetisation move. For the past five days, people have spent hours waiting in long queues outside banks and ATMs to exchange their now invalid banknotes and withdraw money.
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Pakistan high commissioner Abdul Basit said on Monday no surgical strike in Pakistan could isolate the nation.
Dialogue process must continue between India and Pakistan to find a solution to all the problems. Peace process cannot move ahead without solving Kashmir issue, said Basit while replying to a query from the audience during an interactive session.
Replying to a query on surgical strike in PoK by the Indian Army on September 29, Basit categorically denied any such operation.
Had there been a surgical strike by the Indian Army, Pakistan would have replied till now, said Basit.
Nobody can isolate Pakistan. The country is competent enough to safeguard its interest in the international community, he said.
Read | Pakistan says 7 soldiers killed in cross-border firing by India
On charges of cross-border terrorism and Pakistan fomenting trouble in the Kashmir Valley, Basit said there was a similar perception about India in his country too.
Pakistan is the worst sufferer of terrorism. We are victims of terrorism like no other country. There is a perception in Pakistan that India is behind all this. In Pakistan, we have a narrative that India wants to destabilise our country, claimed Basit.
He said people in Pakistan were mature enough and no longer fell prey to anti-India rhetoric. Political parties in Pakistan do not get votes on anti-India remarks, said Basit.
He, however, insisted that confidence-building measures should continue to ensure dialogue process between the two countries.
Basit also claimed that underworld don Dawood Ibrahim was not in Pakistan.
The Pakistan high commissioner was in Lucknow to attend an event organised by a web news portal.
Read | 286 ceasefire violations by Pak post surgical strike: BSF official
A largely united Opposition is looking to pressure the government into rolling back the demonetisation, even as peoples patience wears thin in waiting hours outside banks and ATM kiosks to withdraw money.
On Monday, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee was on a war footing to cobble together an ambitious united front against the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, apparently willing to sidestep temporarily a deep-seated rivalry with the CPI(M) for a joint campaign on a pro-people issue.
The PM in his speech said that the poor are sleeping peacefully. This is an insult to commoners and in bad taste. My humble suggestion is not to hit the common people like this, the TMC supremo said in a series of tweets after Prime Minister Narendra Modi justified the demonetisation move in Ghazipur.
Read | Poor people sleeping peacefully but corrupt troubled: Modi on demonetisation
Banerjee said while the masses were being victimised and crushed under the weight of demonetisation, many economists are now predicting the onset of recession.
This will be a killer for the common people. Already a staggering Rs 1.5 lakh crore of GDP has been lost by the economy in only six days, she said in a statement.
Sources said Banerjee was trying to communicate with leaders of all Opposition parties, including Samajwadi Party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav, Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad and CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury.
On his part, Yechury sought to pick holes in the governments move, claiming that its stated objectives will not be achieved with the steps taken, urging the government to allow old currency notes for public and state utility till December 31 to give some relief to the people.
He also alleged that Modi knows the name of the people who have stashed 90% of the black money abroad, but is still not making them public.
No one carries bags to fund terrorism; it is more via online transfers. Nobody is accepting this new currency. So, what is the use of introducing them? he said.
Read | New notes in ATMs soon, withdrawal limit raised: 10 updates on demonetisation
However, the CPI(M) remained non-committal on Mamatas offer to join hands, saying it would wait to know the governments stand in Parliament and see who stands where on the issue.
Aam Aadmi Party convenor and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal demanded immediate scrapping of the demonetisation scheme.
Traders are complaining how to continue business for 50 days with Rs 24,000 per week cap on withdrawal, Kejriwal said after an emergency cabinet meet at his residence. People are not ready to give 50 days to PM Modi, he needs to find a way or there is a threat of serious law and order situation.
Describing the Centres move to demonetise high-value currency notes as an economic emergency, Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati said Modi should stop emotionally blackmailing people who were facing hardships due to his decision.
It is good that Modiji has left his family and village for the country but that does not mean that he would take immature decisions which are against the public interest and stick to them, she said in a statement.
The Prime Minister had surprised everyone last week by announcing that Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 banknotes which constitute 86% of the total currency in circulation would no longer be legal tender from November 9 in the governments effort to curb black money and corruption.
The ensuing chaos, which the government promised will go away in about a month, has given the BJPs rivals a platform to unite before Parliaments winter session, which begins on Wednesday.
In a rare display of unity, opposition parties joined hands on Monday to corner Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Parliament over the Centres demonetisation move.
The Congress, Janata Dal (United), Trinamool Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal, Left parties and YSR Congress huddled to chalk out a strategy for the winter session that begins this Wednesday and continues till December 16.
Their grounds for opposing the demonetisation is that it has led to economic anarchy and miseries for the common man.
All parties agreed to attack the government, but did not reach a consensus on West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjees proposal to hand over a protest memorandum to President Pranab Mukherjee.
The Congress, Left and the JD(U) are of the opinion that a momentum should be built first inside Parliament for at least a week and then meet the President. (But) our party chief has already sought time from the President on 16 or 17 November, said a Trinamool party member.
The Opposition has decided to adopt a two-pronged attack on the ruling side: plight and harassment of the common people due to governments inefficient mechanism to deal with the cash crisis, and how the BJP had prior information about the ban as its Bengal unit deposited large sums of money hours before the PMs announcement on November 8.
Read | Oppn attacks Modi over demonetisation, Mamata seeks anti-BJP front
There is a broad consensus on several issues, said Anand Sharma, Congress deputy leader in Rajya Sabha.
The parties will meet again on Tuesday but its is unlikely that a united delegation will go to the Presidents house this time.
We will meet the President anyway. Mamata Banerjee is coming to Delhi on Tuesday evening, a Trinamool leader said.
The demonetisation has helped Opposition parties stitch a rare pact since last March when Congress president Sonia Gandhi led 14 parties in a march to Rashtrapati Bhavan to protest against the anti-farmer land bill.
Given the animosity, the governments key agenda for this session to pass the financial reform of the goods and service tax (GST) faces uncertainty over the other financial measure to drive out black money. If a united Opposition decides to create chaos in the Houses, it may be difficult for the NDA government to pass the GST bill in the winter session of Parliament.
Read | Battle lines drawn over demonetisation, govt braces for stormy winter session
Sources said that two different protest plans have been drawn in the meeting for Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. The plans are based on the strength of the Opposition in the respective house, said a Left leader.
Mamata, who is also the Trinamool Congress chief, spoke to Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi on Sunday evening to ensure the Opposition presented a unified front. Banerjee has also spoken to RJD chief Lalu Prasad, CPI(M) boss Sitaram Yechury, and her Delhi counterpart, Arvind Kejriwal.
The only silver lining for the government vis-a-vis the Opposition is the that BJD and JD(U) have not joined this coalition. We have supported the demonetisation drive, said BJDs Lok Sabha floor leader, Bhartruhari Mahtab.
People have been struggling to get liquid cash since Modis surprise announcement last week effectively rendered Rs 1000 and 500 notes of no value. In the past six days, scenes of chaos became common across cities where long queues outside banks, post offices and ATMs clogged roads. In many cases, despite waiting for more than an hour, people came away without being able to exchange or withdraw money.
Read | Cash crunch woes: Banks shut across 18 states, ATMs run dry
In the face of public ire, Modi asked people to give him 50 days to sort out the glitches in an impassioned speech on Sunday. The opposition, on other hand, has been badgering the BJP-led government for sparking a financial anarchy.
Also read | Poor people sleeping peacefully but corrupt troubled: Modi on demonetisation
Seven Pakistani soldiers were killed in what officials described as unprovoked firing by Indian troops along the Line of Control (LoC), with the Foreign Office summoning the Indian envoy to lodge a protest.
The militarys media arm said on its Facebook page that the soldiers died in Bhimber sector of the LoC in a ceasefire violation by Indian troops late on Sunday night. It added, Pakistani troops while responding to Indian unprovoked firing targeted Indian posts effectively.
On Monday afternoon, army chief Gen Raheel Sharif attended the funeral prayers for the seven soldiers at Kharian Cantonment on the outskirts of Jhelum city. The militarys chief spokesman quoted Sharif as saying that Pakistan will continue to respond effectively (and) leave no stone unturned to defend (the) motherland.
The Foreign Office summoned Indian high commissioner Gautam Bambawale on Monday afternoon to lodge a protest against the firing on the LoC, with spokesman Nafees Zakaria saying India must stop all ceasefire violations.
We reserve the right to befittingly respond to Indian aggression, he added.
Read | Indian aggression may lead to strategic miscalculation: Pakistan
In Jammu, officials said Indian troops had fired in retaliation after Pakistan pounded Indian outposts and border villages on the LoC with heavy machine guns and mortars. Sources said 22 Pakistani soldiers were also wounded in the skirmish.
In a statement, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif expressed grief at the loss of lives because of ceasefire violations by Indian forces. Paying tribute to the dead soldiers, he said: We are fully capable of defending our soil against any aggression. Indian forces have resorted to escalating tension on the LoC only to distract the worlds attention from the grave human rights situation in (Kashmir).
He described the unrest in Kashmir as an indigenous uprising against Indian occupation and said the Indian government is failing to read the writing on the wall.
Indian and Pakistani troops have repeatedly exchanged fire on the LoC, with both sides reporting deaths, including of civilians, after Pakistani militants ambushed an army camp in Uri and killed 19 soldiers.
Bhimber in Poonch district was one of the sectors from where Indian forces launched surgical strikes on militant hideouts across the LoC, on September 29 after the Uri attack.
Following the death of the Pakistani soldiers on Sunday, the Pakistan Army targeted border areas such as Naushera, Sunderbani and Pallanwala. The cross-border firing spread to Poonch on Monday afternoon, where a commando of 9 Para was wounded. The 27-year-old commando, Vinay Devrai of Uttarakhand, was said to be stable.
There is unprovoked ceasefire violation by Pakistani army. They are using 82mm mortar shells and automatic weapons. Indian troops are responding befittingly, military spokesperson Lt Col Manish Mehta said. Indian troops damaged at least three Pakistani posts, reports said.
Read | Zero tolerance for cross-border firing, infiltration: India to Pak
The firing escalated on a day the Jammu and Kashmir government announced the reopening of more than 400 schools along the border, which were shut on November 1 in the wake of shelling by Pakistani forces.
The skirmishes come against the backdrop of months of protests in Kashmir over the killing of militant commander Burhan Wani in July. The two countries have expelled diplomats as Pakistan continued to push an anti-India line at global forums.
(With inputs from Ravi Krishnan Khajuria in Jammu)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with senior ministers in the early hours of Monday to review demonetisation and its impact.
The meeting at Prime Ministers residence was attended by home minister Rajnath Singh, finance minister Arun Jaitley, information and broadcasting minister Venkaiah Naidu, power, coal and mines minister Piyush Goyal and top officials of the finance ministry.
The meeting came amid continuing chaos and growing public anger across the country over limited cash availability following the surprise demonetisation of two higher value currency notes by Modi.
There was little respite for cash-starved people queueing up outside banks and ATMs yesterday, with branches witnessing unprecedented rush since early morning and leading to arguments and scuffles.
The RBI has informed that there is enough cash available in the system, economic affairs secretary Shaktikanta Das told ANI after the meeting.
Earlier in the evening, after a review by finance ministry, the limit of old and now defunct Rs 500 and Rs 1000 rupee notes that can be exchanged for freshly minted Rs 2000 and new Rs 500 notes was increased from Rs 4000 to Rs 4500 per day.
Cash withdrawal limit at ATMs was hiked to Rs 2,500 from Rs 2,000 a day.
The weekly limit of Rs 20,000 for withdrawal from bank counters has been increased to Rs 24,000. The maximum limit of Rs 10,000 per day on such withdrawals has been removed, the ministry said in a statement.
Micro ATMs will be deployed in large number of areas to dispense cash against debit and credit cards, Das said, adding that there would be special queues for disabled and senior citizens.
He also told ANI that a special task force has been formed to expedite the process of recalibrating ATMs, which is expected to take up at least two weeks.
Read| Give me 50 days over scrapped notes, punish me if problems persist: Modi
Full full coverage on black money crackdown, click here
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a special meeting in the early hours of Monday to take stock of the governments demonetisation scheme that is aimed at draining illegal cash from the economy.
The move under which the Centre has withdrawn old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes has sparked chaos and confusion across the country with millions of consumers queued outside banks and ATMs.
After the PMs meeting late Sunday, economic affairs secretary Shaktikanta Das in a press conference on Monday talked in detail about the changes in cash withdrawal norms. Below are the 10 key points:
1) ATMs will start dispensing new Rs 2,000 notes from Monday or Tuesday
2) There will be separate queues at banks for those who want to deposit and those who want to exchange cash
3) Daily cash withdrawal limit abolished, weekly limit up to Rs 24,000
4) Micro-ATMs will be introduced that will dispense cash on credit or debit cards
5) ATMs that have been re-calibrated to dispense new currency will have a daily withdrawal limit of Rs 2,500
6) Businesses with current accounts active for more than three months can withdraw up to Rs 50,000 a day
7) Banking correspondents will be allowed multiple withdrawals a day with an upper limit of Rs 50,000 per transaction
8) Old notes will continue to be accepted at pharmacies, airports, petrol pumps, railway stations, toll booths until November 24
9) Special task force will be set up to re-calibrate Indias 220,000-strong ATM network
10) Daily cash exchange limit has been stretched to Rs 4,500 from Rs 4,000
Read| Withdrawal limits at banks, ATMs raised; new Rs 500 notes launched
For full coverage on black money crackdown, click here
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national vice-president Dr Vinay Sahasrabuddhe drew flak on Monday for saying people sometimes die waiting in queue for ration. He was responding to a question on deaths of people outside banks waiting long hours to exchange or deposit demonetised currency.
Sahasrabuddhe, who is also the state BJP affairs in-charge in MP, was quick to add that they were not insensitive to the problems being faced by the people.
A retired government employee, Vinod Pandey, 69, collapsed outside the Union Bank of Indias Makronia Branch in Sagar city a few days back. He was later declared dead at a nursing home. In Madhya Pradesh alone, at least three peoples deaths have been directly or indirectly linked to the demonetisation drive.
Read | Two die in Kerala while waiting to exchange notes; cops say deaths accidental
In a surprise move last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 banknotes comprising 86% of the currency in circulation by value will no longer be legal tender from November 9, resulting in long queues outside banks and ATMs running dry.
Sahasrabuddhe dubbed the Prime Ministers decision a satyagrah, undertaken to address the problem of black money. He said he expected the people to bear the inconvenience and participate in the movement.
The BJP leaders apparently insensitive remark came when asked if the government knew that the people would die in this so-called satyagrah.
Read | 72-year-old man goes to deposit banned notes, dies outside Mumbai bank
During the informal interaction with journalists at public relations minister Narottam Mishras house in Bhopal, Sahasrabuddhe also faced a volley of questions on hardships being faced by the people across the country.
He was unable to answer many of the pointed questions, including on what people could do if they required large amounts for a forthcoming wedding, but he assured that a feedback from the interaction will be conveyed to the concerned people.
Sahasrabuddhe instead alleged that corrupt people affected by the governments decision were trying to defame it.
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A tippler in Tiruvannamalai in Tamil Nadu pulled a fast one on employees of a liquor store of the state-run Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) as he slipped in a fake Rs 2000 note and got away.
Local police say that the man used a photocopy of the new Rs 2000 note at Maruthada village near the town. There was a power cut in the area so staff was unable to see the note properly, they said. The salesman even returned Rs 1,800 in change to the tricky customer.
Officials spotted the forgery and alerted the police after the Tasmac manager tried to deposit it in a bank.
This is the second such incident since Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the demonetisation on November 8, and the roll out of new Rs 500 and Rs 2000 notes.
On Saturday, a vegetable vendor in Karnatakas Chikkamagalur was reportedly cheated by a customer who also used a photocopy of the new note.
The move against black money has hurt Tasmac, a cash cow in a state which currently faces a deficit of Rs 9,154 crores. Tasmac outlets in many areas have reported sales losses of 15-20% .
Bizarrely, it has also led to a complaint by the Madhu Kudippore Vilippunarvu Sangam, or TN Liquor Consumers Awareness Association which submitted a formal request to the Chief Ministers office to allow the Tasmacs to accept old notes as they were technically government services.
Though Tamil Nadu is in a comparatively better position than the rest of India with the highest number of ATMs per capita (there are 23,728 registered ATMs according to RBIs website) it has also been similarly affected by the shortage of cash and new notes.
Daily wage workers are finding it difficult to come up with exact change for their liquor needs, said the associations secretary M Chellapandian. If government-owned transportation corporations are willing to accept the old currencies during this transition period, why cant the Tasmacs do the same?
D Dhanasekaran, general secretary of the Tasmac Employees Union, confirmed that all of the states 6,195 outlets were given strict instructions to not accept the old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes. Every department has been hit by the currency change, he told HT. While sales data isnt available yet, we believe that these losses will stop in another few days once the new notes are in common circulation.
With the arrest of two people, Indore police on Sunday claimed to have cracked the sensational double murder of a bed-ridden man and his wife inside their flat in the posh Apollo DB City apartment.
The arrests were made after going through 40 CCTV footage and visitors entry register, a police officer said.
Shrichand Mittal, 74, and Shanti, 68, were stabbed multiple times and found lying in a pool of blood on November 5.
Accused were identified as Manoj alias Bablu Choudhary, a resident of Beena Nagar in Indore and his aid Dharmendra Rajput, a resident of Barva Khurram in Rajgarh. They were arrested from Arandiya village while they were coming to Indore from Dewas.
Easy way to make money was the prime motive behind the double murder
Easy way to make money was the prime motive behind the double murder, deputy inspector general of police Santosh Kumar Singh told the media.
He said police control room got information about the murder on November 6 between 1 and 2 am. Soon after getting information, Lasudiya police along with a Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team rushed to the spot.
During preliminary investigation, the FSL team did not find any evidence of forced entry, but saw dragging marks on Shantis body and on the floor. Probably, the accused dragged her before or after the murder.
After going through footages of 40 CCTV cameras and visitors entry register, police noticed that Suresh Choudhary visited Mittals flat on November 4 and 5, but gave different mobile numbers at the time of registry. Both the mobile numbers are non-functional, Singh said.
When police closely looked into the number, they found that first five digit of both the numbers are same, but last five digit had similar number and re-arranging all the number, police got 25602, which matched Choudharys mobile number mentioned in his record with police. Notably, Indore Kotwali police on May 5 booked Choudhary in connection with a robbery case.
During interrogation, both the accused confessed to their crime.
Police said Choudhary was familiar with the Mittals as a hospitality and care private company had sent him to their house between August 4-6 as a caretaker.
Choudhary, who befriended Rajput three years back in Shajapur, said they went to Mittals flat on November 4, but failed to accomplish their goal after they felt presence of somebody else in the flat.
Next day, they went to Mittals flat again, but Rajput withdrew. Then Choudhary alone went to the flat and murdered the couple.
Police recovered two mobile phones, cash and one camera from their possession.
Regular security audit at residential townships over next two weeks
In the aftermath of the Apollo DB City double murder case, Indore police is mulling regular security audits at residential townships to avoid similar crimes in future, and will strengthen vigilance on agencies that provide security staff to residential townships, police said on Sunday.
Addressing mediapersons at police headquarters in Indore, Santosh Kumar Singh, deputy inspector general of police (DIG), said, We have marked six police stations under which a majority of residential townships are located in the city. Police will conduct audit of security arrangements at all the residential townships in the next two weeks. The department has appointed in-charge officers of the respective police stations as nodal officers.
Singh said the members of residential townships will be encouraged to create WhatsApp groups that include local police and crime watch, in order to increase people-police engagement.
The police saw loopholes in security arrangements while investigating the Apollo DB City double murder case, Singh said. The security guard at the main entrance did not bother to question why the same person is providing two different mobile numbers. He hardly cross-checked if the number given by the accused was correct or not, by giving a missed call, he said.
Singh said that the Hospitality and Care Private Limited Company had hired Manoj Choudhary without verifying his criminal background.
Police will verify the records and background of securtiy personnel deployed by agencies providing security services, he said, urging the residential townships to issue duty slips to whoever enter the premises, only after thorough verification of the details furnished.
In a bid to provide respite to the city as it struggles with demonetisation, the Maharashtra government has directed banks to arrange mobile vans in cities and the interiors of the state where old notes can be exchanged within the permissible limit. It has asked universities, including University of Mumbai and Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education (MSBTE) to direct colleges to accept exam and tuition fees in cheques instead of a demand draft and pay order. Further, farmers have been allowed to carry vegetables up to 50kg for free in all State Transport (ST) buses up to November 24.
The government has also decided to extend the deadline for accepting old currency notes for payment of utility bills, including for electricity, water and property tax, until November 24 midnight. It has also decided to extend toll tax exemption for another four days, which means people will not have pay toll on any of the roads across the state, including Mumbai, until November 18 midnight, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis declared on Monday. Earlier, the state had declared a toll tax exemption up to November 14 midnight.
The decisions were taken in a meeting called by Fadnavis to review the situation.
The cash crunch has created unprecedented trouble for citizens as banks have been unable to provide enough currency. This has led to chaos and anger among people forcing the chief minister to convene the high-level meeting, including Reserve Bank of India (RBI) officials to find some solutions.
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A three-member committee formed under the joint director of the Directorate of Health Services (DHS) will investigate whether the Jeevan Jyot Hospital in Govandi failed to provide primary treatment to the newborn who succumbed later on its way to Rajawadi Hospital. The probe will begin on Tuesday afternoon.
The infants parents, who waited for more than 36 hours after its birth to avail neonatal care, blamed the hospital for not handing over the infants medical file containing its treatment history. They said the hospital also refused to accept demonetised notes worth Rs2,500, a part of their bill.
DHS officials said the committee will include a paediatrician from Sir JJ Hospital and Grant Medical College, and a representative from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
The focus will be on whether the doctor provided primary treatment to the infant and its mother. The committee will visit the hospital in a day or two to investigate, said Dr Satish Pawar, director, DHS.
Health Ministry sources said a paediatrician was included in the committee to go through the course of treatment and patient records. The specialist will check if the doctor despite having the skill and equipment to treat the infant refused only because the family offered to pay the bill in demonetised notes, to establish medical negligence on the doctors part, said an official.
Dr Sheetal Kamath, from Jeevan Jyot Hospital, who allegedly refused to treat the patient, said she gave the infant and its mother primary treatment and referred them to Sion Hospital as they did not have enough money.
The family denied that Dr Kamath advised them to take the infant to Sion Hospital for specialised neonatal care. How could we take the child to Shatabdi or Sion Hospital when we didnt have the medical records? asked Jagdish Sharma, father of the infant , when asked why they waited for more than 36 hours to avail treatment for the 1.6-kg newborn.
A hospital in Santacruz has inaugurated one of the largest newborn intensive care units (NICU) in the country. Surya Hospital added 65 new beds to their existing facility on November 14, taking the total number of NICU beds to 150 with all the facilities required to take care of newborn children.
Commenting on this, city doctors said that more hospitals should expand their NICUs given the shortage of beds for premature babies.
Around eight lakh newborn babies succumb to death every year in India. In Maharashtra, the child mortality rate is nearly 24 (per 1,000 births). Out of these, two-thirds are premature born babies, said Dr Bhupendra Avasthi, founder of Surya Hospital. He added that India witnesses the maximum number of neonatal deaths in the world.
The doctors also said that mothers who become pregnant through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) have high chances of delivering preterm babies. There are high chances of twins and triplets though IVF. It is noted that mother bearing twins and triplets has increased chances of delivering prematurely, Dr Avasthi said.
State health minister, Dr Deepak Sawant who was present at the launch, said that his wife had delivered two preterm babies, who died because of lack of proper facilities in the city. That time the doctors said that if we were abroad, the babies would have probably survived. Since then I have been focusing on developing NICUs across the state, he said
At present, a baby born at 23-weeks and weighing 460 grams to parents from Africa, is the youngest baby in the NICU ward. The first hour after the birth is critical. During this time, if preterm babies are given the good facilities and an environment where they are prevented from getting infections, the chances are that they will survive and have normal growth, said a paediatrician from the hospital.
Last month, when students from various city colleges visited schools run by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), they were in for a surprise. Contrary to their expectations, they found most of the schools equipped with the required infrastructure.
The visit, which was part of an effort to involve youth in achieving United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, was arranged by the Indian chapter of Global Citizen, a non-profit in New York. Under this initiative, the students visited 100 BMC schools across 24 wards and took stock of their infrastructure. They inspected classrooms, laboratories and toilets and, on Saturday, submitted a report of their findings to the BMC.
While many students, who had signed up for the activity, did so for a chance to attend a musical concert by rock band, Coldplay, the activity turned out to be a fulfilling experience.
Arfa Shaikh, an MBA student of KJ Somaiya College, Vidyavihar, said, Our visit to Pali Chimbai School in Pali Hill was an eye-opener. The school has good computer facilities, and even a virtual classroom. The students are taught basic computer programming, which is not taught in many private schools.
Ankita Bhatia, a volunteer from IEC College, Bandra, said this initiative turned out to be a good learning experience. We got to observe how the underprivileged children learned. We spoke to them and their teachers, who told us about the pros and cons of studying in civic schools.
The students also said that these schools need to improve their infrastructure. In some schools, the children are cramped into small classrooms, while the toilets are unhygienic, they said. I would often complain about facilities in my school, but now, I am grateful, said Bhatia.
Arnav Sahni from the policy team of Global Citizen India said that the organisation is trying to mobilise youth to work for quality education, gender equality and water sanitation three of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals in the country. We use popular culture as a hook to ensure mobilisation on a large scale. We want youngsters to not just come for the concert, but also to get involved in social causes, he said.
Following its study of BMC schools, the group hopes to make industries allot some of their corporate social responsibility funds towards filling the gaps in public education.
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Pilots in India are preparing for a head-on collision with the aviation safety regulator in the wake of an upcoming policy which threatens to ground aviators for feigning illness.
Email exchanges between at least four pilots groups that HT accessed, indicate an industry-wide protest against the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) draft policy issued last week.
The bodies include pilots unions from domestic airlines and the Indian chapter of an international pilots lobby.
In addition to reporting the matter to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the UN-appointed aviation watchdog, pilots are moving court.
This policy alone is enough for a downgrade by the ICAO, said a senior pilot, hinting at the downgrade in Indias air safety ratings by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in 2014.
The issue stems from the Diwali weekend, when more than 100 Jet Airway flights were delayed or cancelled allegedly because many pilots called in sick.
While the airline accused pilots of reporting sick during festivals and weekends, the pilots said it was a protest against an automated rostering software that failed to measure flight fatigue properly.
When 30 to 35 pilots out of 1,500 call in sick, how is that a mass sick protest? asked one of the pilots groups, adding that operations might have been hit owing to poor rostering and scheduling of flights.
Flight operations got back to normal after two days, following talks between the airlines pilots union and management, but less than a week later the DGCA put out its draft policy against sick pilots. It stated that a pilot could be grounded for good if found faking illness.
Airlines could use this clause to target pilots. Even those under the weather could be forced to operate flights, read another observation.
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The son of slain RTI activist Bhupendra Vira has alleged that the police did not act on the complaint filed by his father in April.
Bhupendra, 61, was shot dead on October 15 in his house at Kalina. The activist had written to additional commissioner, West region, Chhering Dorje, informing him that he was being threatened at the behest of former corporator Razzak Khan and his sons and that he feared for his life.
A day after Bhupendra was shot, Razzak and his son Amjad were arrested by the Vakola police. Two days later, the crime branch took over the case and Amjad is said to have confessed to the crime.
His son Mayur said, Even after my father handed over the letter in April, no action was taken and that is why he died. The police did not even file a non-cognisable complaint.
The one-page letter (a copy of which is with HT) dated April 23 states that Bhupendra had an apprehension of threat to his life from Razzak Khan and his sons.
On Monday, Mayur handed over the same letter to the Mumbai crime branch.
Reacting to the allegation, senior police inspector of Vakola police station, Mahadev Wavale, said, I cannot comment on this now.
Dorje said, The complaint letter was sent to DCP zone 8 Virendra Mishra to look into the matter.
Mishra did not respond to HTs calls and messages.
The letter states that Khan had usurped his property in 2010 and when he protested, he and his son were attacked by the former corporator and his son. The activist wrote to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) against Khans illegal constructions. When no action was taken, he wrote to the Lokayukta which ordered the BMC to take action. The BMC then gave orders to raze the illegal constructions at Chandu studio compound in Kalina.
On April 19, the residents of the illegal constructions on Khans illegally occupied land threatened Bhupendra, asking him to withdraw his complaints. Bhupendras letter has named the residents, saying they did this at Khans behest.
The letter also mentioned the name of an assistant engineer from the building and factory department, alleging he too instigated the residents to put pressure on him.
Left with scarce legal and legislative options to counter aftershocks of the Supreme Court order against Punjabs Termination of Agreements Act-2004, the core committee of the ruling Akali Dal will decide the political offensive on Tuesday.
Following the Apex Courts ruling last week, both the Akali Dal and the Congress have been attempting to checkmate each other by projecting themselves as the true champions of Punjabs rights in inter-state water dispute with Haryana and Rajasthan.
The principal opposition party Congress legislators have already handed over their resignations to the Vidhan Sabha speaker, and the ruling Akali Dal-BJP government is exploring options to start legal and political battle.
Also read | Centre cant do much in SYL canal case, says Punjab CM
The political strategy to be planned by the core committee, the think-tank and highest decision-taking panel, will be placed before the cabinet for approval. While the core committee will meet at 11.30 am here, the cabinet is scheduled to meet at 1pm on Tuesday ahead of the November 16 emergency session of the Vidhan Sabha.
Sources in the Akali Dal say that the contours of the legislative strategy for the emergency session will be based on the political decisions of the core committee.
There is clarity on legal issues. But the issue before the party is which legal option is better-suited to extract the maximum political mileage. We are taking legal, political and administrative opinions. Which decision the government may take will be debated by the core committee, a well-placed Akali Dal leader said.
The indications emerging are that the party is rethinking if the government should at all introduce a bill in the Wednesdays session.
On Monday, a four-member team of Delhi-based lawyers, expert in inter-state water disputes, including Mohan Katarki and Rupinder Suri, briefed chief minister Parkash Singh Badal here on the legal options.
Sources say this team of lawyers had also briefed legal eagle Harish Salve, who had argued Punjabs case on water dispute in the SC and is expected to come back from abroad on November 19.
There is confusion on the stance government should take in the light of the SC order. The team of lawyers that met CM is of the opinion that the SC advice on three of the four questions about the presidential reference is unclear. We are fine-tuning our next legal, legislative and political moves, said a source.
With an eye on the upcoming assembly polls, political posturing seems to be one of the main options before the Akali Dal. With SC declaring unconstitutional the 2004 Act, and the bill passed in March to return land acquired for the construction of SYL canal to the rightful owners awaiting governors assent, sound legal choices before the party patriarch Parkash Singh Badal are limited.
But political options before the master strategist Badal on the emotive SYL issue are plenty to rouse public passions and deflect voters attention from 10 years of anti-incumbency staring at the Akali Dal-BJP combine.
Guv summons session
Punjab governor VP Singh Badnore has summoned the special assembly session in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha hall at 10am on Wednesday, according to Shashi Lakhanpal Mishra, secretary, Punjab Vidhan Sabha. HTC
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Following the directions of the Punjab and Haryana high court, the Chandigarh International Airport is set to acquire 128 acres of land for constructing a parallel runway that will be operational during zero-visibility fog.
The length of the CAT-III-B-compliant runway will be 3.3 km and the next date of hearing in the court is December 1.
Now, there is only one runway and it cannot be upgraded to CAT-IIIB facility. The old runway would remain CAT-II compliant, operational in moderate fog conditions (runway visibility of around 300 metres).
The Chandigarh administration and the Punjab government have identified land for the purpose. In Chandigarh, 64-acre land will be acquired at Tatarpur, Chahar Taraf and Burail villages. The farmers will be paid Rs 1.15 crore per acre. In Punjab, 64 acres of land will be acquired in Khandala village of SAS Nagar and farmers will be paid Rs 1.28 crore per acre. The authorities will be spending Rs 400 crore for acquisition of land.
A senior UT administration official said, The land has been earmarked and the file will be sent to the ministry of defence which who will give approval for the acquisition process in Chandigarh and SAS Nagar.
The quality of a runway is determined by the runway visual range. It is the distance over which a pilot of an aircraft can see the runway surface during foggy weather conditions.
The CAT-II lighting system is required for runway visual range (RVR) above 300 metres (moderate fog). The CAT-IIIB-lighting system is required when RVR is 46 metre or less, also called zero visibility.
Tenders floated to re-carpet old runway
The airport has already floated tender to re-surface the existing runway on October 28 and tendering process will be completed within three months while the work will be completed in a year. At present, the length of the runway is 2.74 km.
2 more international flights in March
After the launch of two international flights to Sharjah and Dubai, the Air India is all set to start flight to Singapore and Bangkok in the last week of March next year. It will be three days in a week.
Airport yet to get basic facilities
Even after two international flights were started in September this year, the airport is still lacking in basic facilities. There is no W-Fi, money exchange, additional ATMs and duty free shops etc at the airport.
Airport chief executive officer (CEO) Suniel Dutt said, We have floated the tenders but did not get adequate response. We will float them again or will allot work without floating the tenders as per rules.
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Communist Party of India (CPI) executive members staged a protest at Kailash Chowk and raised slogans against the union government for scrapping the Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency. They rued that business tycoons of the country had already made suitable arrangements to convert their black money into white and nobody waiting in queues for hours outside banks possess black money.
Arun Mitra, senior executive of the party said, The union governments decision to demonetise Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 banknotes is against poor, middle class, small traders, and shopkeepers.
The protesters then carried out a march outside the Punjab and Sind Bank, Punjab National Bank and Central Bank.
It has blocked the use of hard-earned money of common people in the name of curbing of black money and put them into unprecedented hardships. The poor people who have a little savings at their homes for emergency use that are seen waiting in queues and are being forced to deposit money in banks,said Kartar Singh Bowani, secretary of the union.
BB Singal, a businessman from Sector 10 in Panchkula, was taken by surprise when his wife Ritu told him that she needed to deposit Rs 30,000 savings as most of it was in Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 banknotes which the government pulled out of circulation last Tuesday.
He was not aware that Ritu had been secretly saving from the household expenditure for some time. Ritu (49), a housewife, says she had saved the money from what she got for shopping, buying vegetables and as gifts.
She has been investing in kitty schemes also. My husband kept asking till the last minute if I had more. He was surprised. On Friday, we both went to the bank and got deposited the money in my account. I am feeling relieved now, she said.
My savings are not black money. I welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modis decision. Even if we carry out whitewashing at home, we make adjustments for a couple of days. People also stand in queue outside places of worship for hours, she said.
But Babli of Sector 15 does have a bank account as she always relied on her husband, a shopkeeper in Manimajra, for money.
I had been saving from purchases of vegetables and daily items and gifts. I had saved close to Rs 15,000 in the past four years, she said.
She was standing outside the Allahabad Bank branch on Sunday to exchange the money with Rs 100, Rs 500 denomination banknotes. But there was no separate queue for women despite the administrations directions.
This is the third bank I have approached. They are telling us that they are out of cash. Where shall I go? she said.
Another Sector-15 Priya Rani urgently needed cash for shopping to attend a wedding. The Corporation Bank exchanged only `2,000 as it went out of cash. Now, I have come to Allahabad Bank but I am facing the same issue here.
Priya had also saved close to Rs 15,000 in savings at home over the years. I dont have an account or ATM. Banks are not attending properly for exchange of currency, she said.
After the Prime Minister declared high currency notes as invalid, my wife came to me with a sad face disclosing her savings to me, said Dr Kalia, a Chandigarh-based private practitioner. To my surprise she had saved Rs 1.5 lakh. I didnt know how to react. I have promised her that I will get the money exchanged, he said.
I had been saving the money for more than a year. I was taken aback when I heard the news. I had no option but to disclose my secret savings to my husband, his wife said.
Rama Walia, a housewife from Sector 27, had chosen not to open any bank account despite repeated advice of her in-laws. I never wanted to disclose my savings to my husband or in-laws but Modis decision left me with no other option, she said.
I always refused whenever my husband asked for money. But I felt very embarrassed when I handed over `10,000 to him, she said.
Rama has now decided to open a bank account.
After the death of 70-year-old Dalit woman Gurdev Kaur of Jhalur village in Sangrur at the PGIMER in Chandigarh on Friday night, the police have booked around 32 people under Section 302 (murder). However, labour and farmer unions are not satisfied with the step and they are demanding immediate arrest of all the accused and withdrawal of cases against their activists. They have decided not to get the postmortem of Gurdev Kaur conducted and cremate her body till their demands were met.
Earlier, the accused were booked under Section 307 (attempt to murder), but now they have been booked for murder and raids are being conducted to arrest the accused, said Harwinder Singh, station house officer, Lehra police station.
Also read | Sangrur clash: 70-yr-old Dalit woman dies in PGI, farmer unions protest outside DCs office
Gurdev Kaur was injured after a clash between Dalits, members of the Zameen Prapti Sangharsh Committee, and upper caste landlords, allegedly supported by local Akali leaders on October 5 at Jhalur village in Sangrur, over the possession of common land.
On Saturday, members of different labour and farmer unions are holding an indefinite protest outside the deputy commissioners office.
We will not call off the protest till the arrest of all the accused. After the incident, the police arrested our 17 activists, we demand their unconditional release and suspension of the police officials, who supported SAD goons, said Mukesh, president of the Zameen Prapti Sangharsh Committee.
He said, The organisations have decided not to conduct the deceaseds postmortem and cremation till their demands are met.
Darshan Singh Kotfatta,65, Shiromani Akali Dal
Darshan Singh Kotfatta (HT Photo)
Constituency: Bathinda Rural
Education: Post-graduate
Assets declared in last polls: Rs 55 lakh
Electoral record
2012: Defeated Makhan Singh of Congress by margin of 5,308 votes
2007: Lost to Makhan from Pakka Kalan; this seat replaced that one in delimitation
Assembly record
Questions asked: 46
Call attention moved: 0
Power punch Low-key politician banks on loyalty to party bosses
What next Is SAD in-charge of Bhucho Mandi; but future uncertain
How he performed
A low-profile leader and also a relative lightweight, Kotfatta has his whole politics revolving around the SAD top brass. In an indication that he wouldnt contest from this assembly segment in 2017, he was made halqa in-charge of Bhucho Mandi segment in May 2015, and former MP Paramjit Kaur Gulshan was made in-charge of Bathinda-rural, signalling her candidature from here.Since then he has lost connect with the people of this segment. People rue that their elected representative is disconnected from them, thus defeating the very purpose of electing him. He didnt want to talk much about development in the segment, but only mentioned some improvement work on the Dehlwan water distributary.
Voter speak
The MLA has no connect with the people now. In terms of development, his performance has been a mixed bag. Lack of basic amenities troubles people in villages.
Harpal Singh Brar, 33, lawyer
A low-profile leader, he didnt indulge in political bias. The main town of Kotfatta witnessed development. The SAD shouldnt have shifted him to Bhucho Mandi as in-charge.
Nirmal Singh, 45, farmer
By the way
Heads Vidhan Sabha library committee
Jeetmohinder Singh Sidhu,52, Shiromani Akali Dal
Jeet Mohinder Singh Sidhu (HT Photo)
Constituency: Talwandi Sabo
Education: Engineering graduate
Assets declared in last polls: Rs 6.2 cr
Electoral record
2012 bypoll: Won against Harminder Singh Jassi of Cong by 46,642 votes
2007: As Congress candidate, defeated Amarjit Singh Sidhu of SAD by 8,524 votes
Assembly record
Question asked: 0
Call attention moved: 0
Power punch In SAD, was in Cong, won as independent too; money, muscle
What next Likely to again contest on SAD ticket from the segment
How he performed
Though he won the bypoll as SAD candidate by a huge margin after switching from Congress, he earned the tag of being a turncoat. He has developed a youth brigade to flex muscle. An alleged gangster considered close to him was inducted into the SAD in his presence outside his house ahead of the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. The same youth brigade was allegedly involved in violence during his bypoll. He maintains regular contact with the people of the segment and his supporters. Being an Akali MLA for about half of the governments tenure, he succeeded in making an impact in terms of development by repair of canals, besides `60 crore spent on road widening and repair, while Rs 10 crore were spent on new roads, school upgrade, and water supply.
Voter speak
Though he is very social and has developed a personal votebank, his image has taken a hit due to his changing political parties. People question his loyalty.
Avtar Singh Chopra, 46, trader
His performance is good. People even accepted his joining SAD as his homecoming as he was with SAD earlier. But the menace of drugs needs to be checked.
Amarjot Singh, 34, runs computer centre
By the way
Photography lover, travels abroad often
Tomorrow: Maur, Mansa, Sardulgar, Budhlada
Sarup Chand Singla, 55, Shiromani Akali Dal
Sarup Chand Singla (HT Photo)
Constituency: Bathinda Urban
Education: Class 10
Assets declared in last polls: Rs 10.5 cr
Electoral record
2012: Defeated Harminder Singh Jassi of Congress by 6,645 votes
2007: Lost to Harminder Singh Jassi of Congress by 14,645 votes
Assembly record
Questions asked: 0
Call attention moved: 0
Power punch A Hindu face for SAD; lost heft after partys 2014 poll dip here
What next Wants to contest again, but the party may replace him
How he performed
Soon after winning the election, Singla lost the plot in the Hindu-dominated urban constituency. The Badal family faced embarrassment in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls after now-Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal trailed by over 29,000 votes from this part of the Bathinda LS segment, even though she won the election. A waste management plant drew flak from people due to its location; and has not become operational. The Bathinda airport is set to become operational, and there is an AIIMS centre coming here too, but these projects are centrally sponsored. Singla claims he completed 90% work on laying water supply and sewerage lines in Bathinda, but there is still no permanent solution to the waterlogging problem, particularly during monsoon.
Voter speak
Development of lakes and renovation of the fort have helped promote tourism. Commissioning of Bathinda airport expected by the end of this year will be icing on the cake.
Satish Arora, 52, businessman
A waste management plant in a residential area is a major blunder by Singla and his party. Residents of the area will boycott him if the process of shifting does not start before polls.
Jit Singh Joshi, 62, professor
By the way
Has verified FB page; posts almost daily
Ajaib Singh Bhatti,65,Congress
Ajaib Singh Bhatti (HT Photo)
Constituency: Bhucho Mandi (SC)
Education: MA, BEd
Assets declared in last polls: Rs 3.5 cr
Electoral record
2012: Defeated Pritam Singh of the SAD by margin of 1,288 votes
2007: Defeated Gura Singh Tungwali of SAD by margin of 6,650 votes
Assembly record
Question asked: 68
Call attention moved: 2
Power punch Ex-PCS officer, built goodwill when he was posted here
What next Likely to contest the next election too on Congress ticket
How he performed
After sitting in the opposition during this term and the previous one, Bhatti had nothing much to offer for his constituency on the development front. Most of the works in his constituency were mainly done from MPLADS funds of some party MPs. However, the state government laid sewer and water supply lines in the urban areas of the constituency, besides laying concrete link roads in villages. More than 15 Sewa Kendras were recently inaugurated by the state government. The tragedy with the constituency remains that its elected representative, Bhatti, was not at all made part of any discussions, which has all but halted basic, civic development of the constituency for the past decade.
Voter speak
With no power in hand, our MLA hardly did any development in his tenure. Most of the development works were carried out by using MPLAD funds.
Gurpreet Singh, 22, farmer
Civic amenities are in a complete mess. The condition of roads is the worst as the MLA completely failed to deliver on his promise of development.
Sukhjinder Kaur, 34, employee
By the way
Fond of reading, especially political literature
Tomorrow: Maur, Mansa, Sardulgar, Budhlada
Khannas voice modulation!
BJP leader and former Rajya Sabha MP Avinash Rai Khanna wasnt accessible to the media after the news of his appointment as a member of National Human Rights Commission broke last week. Khanna ji foreign gaye was the response given to a reporter of this newspaper who tried to reach Khanna on his mobile to check about his resignation from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) - a mandatory requirement for the appointment.
The ex-MP was apparently not too keen to answer the media queries. But the voice on the phone matched exactly that of Khannas. If that was Khanna himself, he definitely needs to take lessons in voice modulation. (Illustration by Daljeet Kaur Sandhu )
The ex-MP was apparently not too keen to answer the media queries. But the voice on the phone matched exactly that of Khannas. If that was Khanna himself, he definitely needs to take lessons in voice modulation.
Love, hate and the Cong parivar
For warring leaders of the Punjab Congress, help is closer to home. State Congress chief Captain Amarinder Singh had his wife and Patiala MLA Preneet Kaur by his side when he resigned as the Amritsar MP over the SYL verdict on Thursday. The power couple was enough for the frame that day. A day before, it was his predecessor Partap Bajwas MLA wife Charanjit Bajwa returning fire to Amarinder loyalists after Captain and Bajwa fought a proxy war over tickets to turncoats. On Friday, however, Charanjit was all smiles, standing right behind Amarinder for a photo-op, when all 42 party MLAs handed over their resignation letters to the Punjab assembly secretary. Love, hate and reunion its all in a day in the Congress parivar.
Capt pins big hopes on grandson Nirvan
Punjab Congress president Captain Amarinder Singh (HT Photo)
Punjab Congress president Capt Amarinder Singhs grandson Nirvan Singh (27) is being increasingly seen at his political events these days. And there is buzz in Congress circles that Nirvan, son of the former chief ministers daughter Jai Inder Kaur, would take forward Amarinders legacy, as his son Raninder Singh is not taking much interest in politics. Nirvan, engaged to Mriganka, granddaughter of Karan Singh, a senior Congress leader from Jammu and Kashmir, is already looking after his grandfathers online campaign, say party insiders.
AAP learning its lessons fast
Sangrur MP Bhagwant Mann (HT Photo)
The Aam Aadmi Party is learning its lessons. When the party released its first and second lists of candidates, its then state convener Sucha Singh Chhotepur was absent from the press conference to show his protest against the chosen candidates. At the time of release of the third list, Sangrur MP Bhagwant Mann reached the press conference after the names had been announced. He had to then reassure everyone that he had got late and was totally in favour of the list released. In order to avoid a repeat, the party announced its fourth list of candidates by sending out a press note instead of holding a press conference.
Sukhbirs fresh plan:Produce petrol from stubble
His plan to launch amphibious buses with an ability to run both on water and land is yet to become reality, but that did not deter Punjab deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal from making another announcement on Friday. At a function in Kairon village of Tarn Taran district, he said: Now we will produce petrol from stubble. As soon as he made the statement, many in the audience started talking in whispers about his earlier promise of starting dual mode buses that had drawn sarcastic remarks on social media. After his latest announcement also, a message went viral. The Arab world is worried after Sukhbirs statement, as they will have to bear big loss due to production of petrol in Punjab, it read.
SYL verdict ups political temperature
Haryana finance minister Capt Abhimanyu (HT Photo)
After the Supreme Court gave its verdict on the Sutlej Yamuna Link (SYL) canal, Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar urged the opposition parties not to give it a political colour. But his appeal did not seem to have much impact, as politics over the issue began quickly. The first to talk extensively on the subject was Khattars finance minister Capt Abhimanyu, followed by Congress media in-charge and MLA Randeep Surjewala. Both had a different take on leaders of their respective parties in Punjab and Haryana. If that was not enough, Indian National Lok Dal (INLD), the principal opposition party in Haryana, announced to hold its executive committee meeting to chalk out its action plan on the canal issue. A similar meeting of Congress MLAs, MPs and other leaders has been convened by ex-CM Bhupinder Hooda. Politics, it seems, has just begun.
Smart city: Dharamshala residents may have to wait longer
Sudhir Sharma (HT Photo)
The hopes of residents of Dharamshala for an early start of the Smart City project are seemingly fading away. Urban development minister and local legislator Sudhir Sharma, who was instrumental in getting Dharamshala included in the central governments flagship programme, also does not seem sure that the project would take off before the next assembly elections. If the project had started on time, he would have gained a lot politically. The minister is now banking on two other projects for installation of underground dustbins and concrete streets being undertaken in the town. The projects, according to him, are not a part of Smart City Mission but they are his personal initiative.
(Contributed by Sukhdeep Kaur, Gurpreet Singh Nibber, Chitleen K Sethi, Surjit Singh, Rajesh Moudgil and Naresh K Thakur)
The Rapid Action Force (RAF) on Sunday held a flag march in various parts of the district as a precautionary measure in view of the likely law and order problem over the Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal issue.
One company of the RAF began a march from the bus stand and covered several parts of the city, including the Fountain Chowk and the Leela Bhawan. It later moved to nearby towns of Samana and Patran situated along borders with Haryana.
Also read| SYL protest: RAF deployed in Punjab, Haryana border sealed, vigil up on NH-1
Deputy superintendent of police Hansraj said, The exercise was organised to send a message that security agencies are ready to tackle any law and order problem. The situation so far is normal and all precautionary measures are in place.
Meanwhile, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) continued its morcha against the Supreme Courts verdict and the state governments inability to represent Punjabs case properly, for the third day at Kapuri. The partys state secretary Gulshan Chhabra asked the top leaderships of the BJP and teh Congress to clear their stand on the issue. He said that so far national leaders of both the parties are silent on the issue. It shows how both these parties are playing politics over the issue.
Also read| Kejriwal not supporting Punjab on SYL issue: Capt Amarinder
On being asked why Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal is silent so far, he said AAPs national spokesperson Sanjay Singh has made the partys stand very clear that they will not allow any sharing of Punjabs river waters
One of the foremost filmmakers of the country, Adoor Gopalakrishnans latest Malayalam release, Pinneyum (Once Again), is his first film he has shot digitally. Pinneyum, starring Malayalam actors Dileep and Kavya Madhavan, was screened in the Special Tribute section of the ongoing 22nd Kolkata International Film Festival.
The septuagenarian, who pioneered the new wave movement in Kerala with his debut film, Swayamvaram (1972), admits that he was apprehensive about the digital medium. So, he researched a lot on the opportunities and limitations of the medium before shooting the film. I have been shooting movies all my life on film camera. But when I started working with the digital camera, I found it very convenient. Earlier, we had to wait till the film was processed, printed and projected. We couldnt watch the film till the entire process was over. But when a film is shot on a digital camera, you can see the rushes instantly. You can discard or improve a shot. That worked well with me, says Adoor, who has been instrumental in revolutionising Malayalam cinema. His recent film, Pinneyum, which released in August, is based on a real crime incident, which took place in Kerala in the 1980s.
A still from Pinneyum, which stars Malayalam actors Dileep and Kavya Madhavan.
Three years ago, Adoor was in Kolkata to attend the 19th Kolkata International Film Festival, where a retrospective of his films was held. The filmmaker had then praised the new look of the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. This time, the Dadasaheb Phalke-awardee praised the new look of the city for coming up with so many flyovers. Coming to Kolkata after three years, the first thing I noticed was the flyovers. The flyovers have changed the entire look of the city, otherwise Kolkata had been looking the same for several years, he smiles.
Adoor loves coming to Kolkata. In fact, every time he comes to the city he makes sure he meets Mrinal Sen, one of the master filmmakers of Bengali cinema. This time too, he met the Padatik, Akaler Sandhane and Kharij filmmaker at his residence.
Mrinalda is keeping well at his age (Sen is 93-years). We had a long conversation. Kolkata has always nurtured great cinema made by the likes of Satyajit Ray, Mrinal Sen and Ritwik Ghatak. The audience here loves serious cinema and knows about my work. When we talk about Indian cinema, we have these three great masters before us. We are making the kind of cinema because of them, says Adoor, who is highly influenced by Rays works and has often been called his successor.
Pinneyum was selected for the Masters section of the Toronto International Film Festival, 2016 and was also screened at the recently-concluded MAMI film festival. This is also the first film Adoor has made in eight years. His last film, Oru Pennum Randaanum (A Climate for Crime), released in 2008.
Talking about Kolkata, the filmmaker says that the city has always nurtured great cinema made by the likes of Satyajit Ray, Mrinal Sen (above) and Ritwik Ghatak.
Adoor says that a number of people have been contacting him to make films but he cannot just start working on a film even though he has financial backup. My mind goes blank after making a film and I need time to find a proper subject to make another film. I respect my audience. I should not be wasting their time. Just because money is available it doesnt mean someone should make films. Many directors do that but I dont believe in this model. Its important for me to find a theme thats worth making a film on, said the Elippathayam (Rat Trap) and Naalu Pennungal (The Four Women) filmmaker.
Adoor is the second Indian filmmaker after Ray to win Commandeur of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres from the French government. His film, Elippathayam, won him the British Film Institute Award for the most original and imaginative film in 1982. The International Film Critics Prize has gone to him six times for Mukhamukham, Anantaram, Nizhalkkuthu, Mathilukal, Vidheyan and Kathapurushan. Initially, when I started making films, I admit finance was a problem. But big corporate houses approach me to make films now. I have been in the industry for 50 years now, but have only managed to make 12 films. Some of my contemporaries have made more than 100 films. I was not making films most of the time, he smiles.
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DMKs MK Stalin, leader of Opposition in Tamil Nadu Assembly, on Monday criticised chief minister J Jayalalithaa for not expressing even words of comfort to people suffering cash crunch but focussing on their votes instead.
In a statement issued in Chennai, Stalin referring to Jayalalithaas statement issued on Sunday, said at a time when common people in the state are not able to buy their daily essentials due to currency crunch there is nothing in the chief ministers statement alleviating the peoples problem or even providing some words of comfort.
Jayalalithaa on Sunday said she had a rebirth because of prayers of the people and urged the AIADMK to work for the partys victory in upcoming by-elections.
She said she was waiting to resume normal work after getting well soon.
The 68-year-old Jayalalithaa was admitted to Apollo Hospitals with fever and dehydration on September 22 and is yet to be discharged.
Jayalalithaa in a signed statement urged the AIADMK activists to work hard so that the party candidates won in the November 19 assembly by-elections in Aravakuruchi, Thanjavur and Tiruparankundram constituencies in Tamil Nadu and Nellithope in Puducherry.
Political parties in Tamil Nadu have welcomed the central governments move on November 8 to withdraw legal tender status of 500 and 1,000 rupee notes.
However, they said that people should not be put to trouble in the process.
Stalin had earlier welcomed the central governments move to demonetise 500 and 1,000 rupee notes if it really helped to uplift the countrys economy.
Recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modis election promise of depositing Rs 15 lakh in each Indians bank account by recovering the black money stashed overseas, Stalin had said that the promise is yet to be fulfilled.
Similarly, PMK leader and former Union Minister Anbumani Ramadoss welcoming the demonetisation move added that black money stashed outside the country should be brought back within a short period.
He said demonetisation is only one move in attacking black money and it cannot eradicate black money from the system.
AIADMKs spokesperson CR Saraswathi said the central government should take steps to ease the trouble faced by the common man to get old invalid notes exchanged.
I dont think I have ever been paid for my looks, says a candid Sandhya Mridul, while speaking about how her purpose is to act and not simply look good. If its only about looking good, please call Deepika Padukone. Not that Deepika isnt a good actor. She is a fantastic one. But she is also the most beautiful woman I have seen. For me, glamour is really not the reason to choose something. If you want me to look beautiful and make me act then, of course, Im all for it, she says.
Sandhya is known for her forthright nature and preference for unconventional roles. Be it her character as a homosexual mans wife in Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd. (2007) or her role as Konkana Sen Sharmas politically incorrect roommate in Page 3 (2005), the actor has always picked varied roles. Sandhya says, I could never do commercial cinema because I could never find a role worth my while as an actor. But today, many actors, who wouldnt have been noticed earlier, are getting work. I have had a hard time, too. I found a lot of characters interesting, but they were not given any importance earlier.
Watch: Promo of Prisoners of War: Bandi Yuddh Ke
Playing the second fiddle
Sandhya has also forayed into television with shows such as Banegi Apni Baat and Swaabhimaan. The actor returned to the medium this year with a show directed by Nikhil Advani. Im often told that I left television. I didnt leave television, the content did. Its sad that television has always played second fiddle [to Bollywood]. But we are to blame. The content that we are churning out deserves to be in that space, she says.
.Watch: Sajna JiVaari Vaari from Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd.
Relationships
In an interview earlier this year, the actor had asserted that it was nobodys business to question her about her personal life. She says, Relationships are very hard. But I would say if you feel that you have found the right person, stand up for them and work on the relationship. I do not understand people who are in relationships and still cheat. Sandhya adds that she doesnt believe a relationship has to last forever. Im not cynical; I dont think that it cant happen. Every relationship brings something with it, so lets respect that while it lasts, she says.
President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday vowed to move aggressively on a conservative agenda in filling Supreme Court vacancies, cracking down on immigration and cutting taxes, but also sought to reassure worried Americans they have nothing to fear from his presidency.
Setting aside the strident tone of his campaign, the 70-year-old Trump assumed a gentler manner in his first television interview since his shock election, saying he was saddened by reports of harassment of Muslims and Hispanics, and telling the perpetrators: Stop It.
The interview with CBSs 60 Minutes, which was taped on Friday and aired in full on Sunday, offered Trump an opportunity to reintroduce himself after an ugly, name-calling campaign and surprise victory that sparked protests in cities across the United States.
I just dont think they know me, the billionaire real estate mogul said at one point, of the thousands of protesters who have massed in streets below his Trump Tower headquarters with signs that read Not our president.
Told that many Americans are scared of his presidency, Trump said: Dont be afraid. We are going to bring our country back.
Demonstrators protest against Trump on Fifth Avenue outside Trump Tower on Sunday (AFP)
Conservative agenda
On the issues, however, Trump made it clear he intends to aggressively push a right-wing agenda, pledging to name justices to the Supreme Court who are anti-abortion and pro-gun rights.
The judges will be pro-life, Trump told CBS. In terms of the whole gun situation, he added, theyre going to be very pro-Second Amendment.
He will have an immediate opportunity to fill a vacancy on the court left by the death of arch conservative justice Antonin Scalia. President Barack Obamas attempt to fill the seat was blocked by the Republican-controlled Senate.
On immigration, Trump reaffirmed his signature campaign pledge to build a wall on the border with Mexico, although he conceded parts of it may be just a fence.
And he said as many as three million undocumented immigrants with criminal records would be deported or incarcerated.
What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, he said.
We have a lot of these people, probably two million, it could be even three million, we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate, he said.
Trump will have an immediate opportunity to fill a vacancy on the court left by the death of arch conservative justice Antonin Scalia. (AP)
Conciliatory notes
He left the door open, however, on the fate of the millions of other hard-working immigrants in the country illegally.
After the border is secured and after everything gets normalised, were going to make a determination on the people that youre talking about who are terrific people, he said.
Immigration, he said, was one of three top legislative priorities he has discussed with House Speaker Paul Ryan, the others being action to undo Obamas signature health care reform and a bill to cut taxes and simplify the tax code.
Trump had previously indicated he would keep some aspects of Obamacare, including a ban on insurance companies denying coverage for pre-existing conditions.
There were other conciliatory notes as well.
He signalled that he would not seek to overturn the legalisation of same-sex marriage in the United States.
Its law. It was settled in the Supreme Court. I mean its done, Trump said when asked if he supports marriage equality. And Im -- Im fine with that, he added.
He also confirmed he would forego the $400,000 salary that comes with the office of US president.
Im not going to take the salary. Im not taking it, he said. I think I have to by law take $1, so Ill take $1 a year, he added.
A protester against President-elect Republican Donald Trump holds a sign as he jogs around Lake Merritt in Oakland, California on Sunday. (Reuters)
Conspiracy-mongering
Earlier Sunday, Trump made his first high level appointments, naming anti-establishment firebrand Steve Bannon his top strategist and top Republican Reince Priebus his White House chief of staff.
The choices suggested Trump, a political novice, intends for his new administration to preserve the populist edge that won him the White House, tempered by political pragmatism.
Priebus, head of the Republican National Committee, is a seasoned political operative with close ties to Ryan, the House speaker.
But Bannon, the campaign chairperson in the final months of the Trump campaign, is CEO of the right-wing, conspiracy-mongering Breitbart News website known for withering attacks on the Republican elite.
It has also likened abortions to a Holocaust, railed against Muslim immigrants, and once advised female victims of online harassment to just log off and stop screwing up the internet for men, illustrating that point with a picture of a crying child.
In the 60 Minutes interview, Trump made no promises to tone down his own rhetoric as president.
I dont want to be just a little nice monotone character, he said.
Newt Gingrich, a member of Trumps inner circle, said he would advise the president-elect to swing for the fences.
This is a city which if you dont shove it as hard as you can while you have momentum, it will just surround you. I mean, the swamp doesnt want to be drained. And the swamp will just suck you in if you let it, he said on CBSs Face the Nation.
Despondent Democrats are vowing resistance -- despite now being locked out of power not only in the House and Senate, but now in the White House as well.
Our job now is to hold him accountable, said Bernie Sanders, who lost to Hillary Clinton in the Democratic nomination race.
President-elect Donald Trumps decision to empower his running mate Mike Pence to steer the presidential transition gives the soon-to-be vice president a powerful hand in shaping the incoming government and could foreshadow that he will play an outsized role in the White House.
Pences ascension is in line with a recent trend toward influential vice presidents and appears similar to the last vice president who was handed the keys to a presidential transition: Dick Cheney.
As the nation was embroiled in the recount after the 2000 election, George W Bush informally entrusted Cheney to begin building the government even before the outcome was settled in favour of the Republican ticket. Some of the work was done sitting around Cheneys kitchen table in McLean, Virginia, remembered Ari Fleischer, who became Bushs first press secretary.
This is a big test for Pence, Fleischer told The Associated Press. If it goes well, it will portend a bigger job for him in the White House.
Cheney clearly passed that test and became one of the most powerful vice presidents in recent memory, particularly during Bushs first term.
Cheney not only ran Bushs vice presidential search team eventually picking himself -- he stocked the administration with veteran Republicans, many of whom he had known for years.
The vice president was so influential he barely spoke in meetings because he knew he would see the president alone and could convey his thoughts privately, said Fleischer.
Only the truly powerful can be that silent. And when he did talk, it was pretty impactful.
It is far too soon to say if Pence will have a similar voice in Trumps White House, but naming him the chairman of the transition team broadcasts to others in Washington that he will be a key player.
If youre given an important role in the transition, it sends a signal to other people that you matter, said Joel K. Goldstein, a law professor at St. Louis University who is widely considered one of the nations leading experts on the sometimes obscure history of the vice presidency.
Other political actors want to deal with you due to your perceived access and influence to the president.
It also gives the vice president a chance to put his own stamp on the administration. While Trump ran as a political outsider and was not shy in burning bridges to establishment Washington, Pence is a popular GOP figure who may opt to select long time allies for key roles.
In the year of the outsider, Reince Priebus was the face of the Republican establishment.
Yet the Republican National Committee chairman would come to earn the trust and confidence of President-elect Donald Trump, who on Sunday named Priebus as his chief of staff, along with flame-throwing media executive Stephen Bannon as his chief strategist.
The position puts Priebus at the power centre of the new Trump administration. The 44-year-old Wisconsin political operative will help guard access to the president-elect, guide policy and political decisions, and if past practice holds true, will often be, along with Bannon, the last person Trump consults before making major decisions.
Priebus has no governing experience in Washington.
Yet his extraordinary ability to build and maintain relationships with his partys power brokers and grassroots sets him apart from other prospective chiefs of staff. The affable and slow-talking Priebus maintains a particularly close relationship with House Speaker Paul Ryan, who is also from Wisconsin. At the same time, Priebus may have been almost as popular among the Republican National Committees 168 members, who represent many different factions of the GOP and come from every state in the nation.
Read | Gentler Trump appears firm on agenda, says Americans have nothing to fear
Trumps new chief of staff and the House speaker met in the late 1990s when Priebus was a party activist in Kenosha County, Wisconsin, and Ryan was running for Congress. Priebus eventually became the party chairman of Kenosha County, the First District (the speakers district) and then Wisconsin party chairman. Hes been a friend and adviser to Ryan all these many years.
Priebus was already the longest serving chairman in party history, having worked in that role since January 2011, but he easily could have been re-elected early next year had he wanted to seek another term.
More than anything, he served as the chief fundraiser for the Republican National Committee, a job he did very well. He used the tens of millions of dollars he helped raise to create a nationwide voter outreach operation that fuelled Trumps stunning victory.
Still, his status as a party insider caught the attention of Trump supporters such as tea party leader Jenny Beth Martin. She warned on Saturday that, No Washington insider, regardless of who it is, should serve as President Trumps chief of staff.
Its time to drain the swamp not promote insiders beholden to the Washington establishment who helped create it, she said.
Priebus ability to earn Trumps trust and confidence ultimately outweighed any political concerns.
He was perhaps the only major establishment leader to stand with Trump over the campaigns final weeks as much of the political world predicted the Republican nominee would lose the election. Priebus became Trumps regular travelling companion and confidant. He was optimistic until the very end.
I dont buy this conventional wisdom that somehow or other, things are bad. I think things are going well, he told The Associated Press a few days before the election.
Priebus, a big Green Bay Packers fan, likes to talk sports, he plays the piano and is quick to poke fun at himself. His easy-going personality, self-deprecating humour and lack of knowledge of the legislative process, mark a particularly sharp contrast with President Barack Obamas first chief of staff, Rahm Emanuel.
He married his high school sweetheart, Sally. They have two school-age children.
Priebus gets along with pretty much everybody, said Lanhee Chen, a former top adviser to the GOPs 2012 presidential nominee Mitt Romney.
Chen called the pick a terrific decision. I think it reflects an understanding that, first of all, you have to have someone who understands the politics of Washington, he said.
Priebus has long favoured a big-tent political philosophy that encourages the GOP to adopt a more welcoming and inclusive tone. Back in December, he condemned Trumps plan to ban Muslim immigrants in December.
I think its the party for everybody. Its for everyone, Priebus told the AP days before Trumps victory. That the message that were trying to get out across the country, which is it doesnt matter what the colour of your skin is, what your faith is, what gender you are, or what age you are. This is a party of freedom, opportunity and equality. Thats what our party is.
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange faced questioning on Monday by prosecutors at the Ecuadorian embassy in London, where he has been holed up for four years, over allegations he committed rape in 2010.
Swedish Chief Prosecutor Ingrid Isgren arrived at the embassy to pose questions to Assange through an Ecuadorian prosecutor over the allegations which Assange has denied, a Reuters photographer at the scene said.
Assange, who enraged the United States by publishing hundreds of thousands of secret U.S. diplomatic cables, took refuge in the embassy in August 2012 to avoid being extradited to Sweden over the rape allegation.
The 45-year-old Australian has refused to go to Sweden for questioning, saying he fears further extradition to the United States, where a criminal investigation into the publication of secret documents by WikiLeaks is ongoing.
Key dates in WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange's legal battle against extradition to Sweden over rape accusations. (AFP Graphic)
In 2010, WikiLeaks published thousands of classified U.S. military and diplomatic documents in one of the largest information leaks in U.S. history.
Isgren and a police investigator will be able to ask questions through the Ecuadorian prosecutor, who will later report the findings to Sweden, prosecutors have said.
After the report, the Swedish prosecutor will take a view on the continuing of the investigation, they said.
A Swedish appeals court decided in September to uphold Assanges arrest warrant, saying a strong public interest argument outweighed a case to set it aside based on the lengthy deadlock and a previous lack of impetus in pursuing the case.
Assanges request to have the warrant overturned came after a UN panel in February said his stay at the Ecuadorean embassy equalled arbitrary detention, that he should be let go and be awarded compensation.
Even if Sweden drops the investigation, however, Assange could be arrested for breaching bail conditions in Britain.
He has denied wrongdoing and says he fears being extradited to the US because of his WikiLeaks work. It isnt known if he faces a secret grand jury indictment in the U.S.
The sex crime allegations were made shortly after Assange and WikiLeaks became well known worldwide for releasing hundreds of thousands of pages of classified government documents.
One Swedish woman said Assange intentionally damaged a condom and pinned her down while having sex. A second woman said Assange had sex with her without a condom while she was asleep.
In Sweden, having sex with an unconscious, drunk or sleeping person can lead to a rape conviction punishable by up to six years in prison.
A Swedish investigation into the crimes was launched, then dropped for lack of evidence, and then started again as prosecutors sought to question Assange about possible molestation and rape.
He has remained in control of WikiLeaks, which released hacked emails relating to the Hillary Clinton campaign in the final weeks of her failed White House run.
Read | Assange says WikiLeaks not trying to influence US election
When facts change, I change my mind. What do you do, sir? - the famous quote attributed to economist John Maynard Keynes has been quickly adapted by leading lights of the Theresa May government after Donald Trump won the US presidential election.
From trenchant criticism some time ago by May as home secretary and the loquacious Boris Johnson as the London mayor - to the effect that Trump was unfit for the high office - Johnson on Monday insisted the real estate mogul was a dealmaker and would be good for Britain.
Trump came in for severe criticism in Britain during the election campaign for claiming that parts of London were so radicalised that they were no-go areas for police. MPs had demanded he be banned from entering Britain.
In the wake of Trumps victory, Johnson, now the foreign secretary, said: "I think there is a lot to be positive about and it is very important not to prejudge the president-elect or his administration. It's only a few days since the election has taken place. I think we all need to wait and see what they come up with. But I think we should regard it as a moment for opportunity.
He added, "Donald Trump is a dealmaker and I think that could be a good thing for Britain, but it could also be a good thing for Europe and that I think is what we need to focus on today.
In advance quotes released by Downing Street before an event at the Guildhall on Monday evening, May is due to say that Trumps victory showed her government must deal once and for all with the "overlooked" communities that have been transformed irrevocably by immigration without the "permission" of British voters.
In what is billed as the first significant assessment of Trumps election, May is due to say his victory shows the need for a new approach to managing the forces of globalisation that did not ignore the working classes.
May spoke to Trump on phone and the two leaders renewed their commitment to the special relationship between the two countries. But there is much hand-wringing in the May government over UKIP leader Nigel Farages proximity to Trump.
Farage, who campaigned for Trump, was the first international leader the president-elect met on Sunday, encouraging the UKIP leader to offer his services to the British government to help build bridges with the Trump team an offer that was promptly turned down.
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While the White House gets ready to welcome its new incumbent, President Donald J Trump, Twitterati resorted to sharing hilarious memes of sassy conversations between the outgoing duo of President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden.
Since the successors met the predecessors at the White House on Thursday, viral memes of Obama and Biden planning pranks on Trump have stormed Twitters imagination.
In a heartfelt speech after Trumps victory, a light moment between Obama and Biden stood out. I have lost elections before, Joe hasnt, joked Obama, to which Biden replied: Remember, you beat me badly.
This moment of banter provided Twitterati the impetus to come up with memes of the duo scheming against Trump and his VP, Pence.
Biden: You know he needs an official gov't phone right? Imma give him a Note 7.
Obama: But Joe, don't those....
Biden: Exactly. pic.twitter.com/HFXzpSN9Kj Tatiana King Jones (@TatianaKing) November 13, 2016
"Yes Mr. Trump, I took Joe's pocket knife away and we'll get you some new tires for that limo right away, but I can't make him say sorry" pic.twitter.com/wULtfJqu85 Josh (@jbillinson) November 11, 2016
The list of suggested pranks grew through the day. Some memesmiths clearly did not want Obama and Biden to lay out the welcome carpet for their successors.
Obama: Check pl-
Biden: Actually, we'll take five more milkshakes and you can bill the White House on January 21st pic.twitter.com/KVcdBtQHAe Josh (@jbillinson) November 12, 2016
How Obama-Biden can deter President Trump from tweeting from the White House:
BIDEN: we should change the wifi passwords before trump moves in so he can't tweet
OBAMA: pic.twitter.com/IXcOpSmNWb an online pigeon (@imskytrash) November 13, 2016
And one to keep Trump off the White House Netflix account:
Biden: How do I throw everyone off the White House Netflix account? I'll be damned if Trump is gonna mess up my suggested list pic.twitter.com/UvcbA6TxEp Mollie Goodfellow (@hansmollman) November 11, 2016
And some ideas for pranks on Trump and his VP, Pence.
Biden: Mike, I don't like you, you don't like me
Pence: Let's keep this civil
Biden: Whatever. I'm taking the "World's Best VP" mug with me pic.twitter.com/NL58NBSmvV Josh (@jbillinson) November 12, 2016
Obama: "Joe, why are you still holding my hand?"
Biden: "I wanna freak Mike Pence out"
Obama: "But why?"
Biden: "Just roll with it" pic.twitter.com/o5KZZ0Ysgz thomas moore (@Thomas_A_Moore) November 12, 2016
Joe: I'm going to ask Donald if he wants something to eat
Barack: That's nice, Joe
Joe: And then I'm going to offer him knuckle sandwiches pic.twitter.com/xYJ0k2QTX6 Jill Biden (@JillBidenVeep) November 13, 2016
Joe: I told trump that there was important meeting in a room but it was a broom closet & now he's locked in there
Obama: lmao good one joe pic.twitter.com/ACrOHYuviF daddy nicky (@preciousadidas) November 10, 2016
It is the end of an era, but also spells the end of one of the sweetest bromance the White House has seen.
Biden: I'm gonna punch him.
Obama: Smile and wave, Joe. pic.twitter.com/ImEz6X68jm Norm Kelly (@norm) November 11, 2016
Fondly reminiscing about the Obama/Biden bromance to ease my #ElectionNight anxiety. Gonna miss these two. pic.twitter.com/8vs3BxeWcA Azuka Oforka (@AzukaOforka) November 9, 2016
For social media, the current POTUS and his VP are #FriendshipGoals.
I just don't understand why I have to give him my room.
Obama: Joe, he's the new VP.
Biden: He doesn't even know the secret knock pic.twitter.com/YPcRF8DB14 Carlos (@Carlos5Sanchez) November 14, 2016
Obama's and joe biden's friendship are goals pic.twitter.com/MDx3F0RZZJ WORLDSTARHIPHOP (@WORLDSTAR) November 12, 2016
But they swear to us that they will be, Brothers For Life.
Happy 55th, Barack! A brother to me, a best friend forever. pic.twitter.com/uNsxouTKOO Vice President Biden (@VP) August 4, 2016
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Skygazers took to high-rise buildings, observatories and beaches Monday to get a glimpse of the closest supermoon to Earth in almost seven decades, and snap dramatic pictures.
The unusually big and bright moon appeared at its most impressive as night fell over Asia, but astronomy enthusiasts will be able to see Earths satellite loom large anywhere in the world shortly after sunset.
The phenomenon happens when the moon is full at the same time as, or very near, perigee -- its closest point to Earth on an elliptical, monthly orbit.
It was the closest to Earth since 1948 at a distance of 356,509 kilometres (221,524 miles), creating what Nasa described as an extra-supermoon.
Super moon rises at India gate in New Delhi. (Raj K Raj/ HT Photo)
A passenger air plane crosses the supermoon, in Gurgaon. (Parveen Kumar/HT Photo)
A view of Super moon appeared in a back of the illuminated Golden Temple on the occasion of the 547th Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in Amritsar. (Gurpreet Singh/HT Photo)
A supermoon pictured in Abidjan. (Sia Kambou/AFP)
The 'Super' full moon rises above the Table Bay harbour, and the central city in Cape Town. (RODGER BOSCH/AFP)
Skygazers and photographers headed to the best viewing spots in Asia, where the phenomenon was visible first, hoping that cloudy skies and the perennial pollution that blights many of the regions cities would not spoil the fun.
The eastern Sydney suburb of Bronte became an unexpected viewing spot as thousands of people armed with picnic mats and cameras packed its small beach near Bondi to catch a glimpse of the supermoon after a Facebook invite went viral.
A man rides a horse past people watching the supermoon rise at Marina Beach in Chennai. (AFP Photo)
Loud cheers went up among the crowd as the moon made brief appearances between heavy, grey clouds before disappearing.
Its really nice, Aidan Millar-Powell told AFP of the festive, community atmosphere at the beach. People dont usually come together like this in Sydney for a natural phenomenon.
The supermoon sets behind the Chrysler Building in New York City. (REUTERS)
Evergreen trees silhouetted on the mountain top as a supermoon rises over over the Dark Sky Community of Summit Sky Ranch in Silverthorne, Colorado. (Jack Dempsey/AP)
The marble sized-up replica of Michelangelo's David adorning the entrance of Florence's Palazzo Vecchio, Italy, is silhouetted against a full moon in Italy. (Maurizio DeglInnocenti/AP)
Tourists, office workers and couples crowded the Hong Kong waterfront as the supersized moon rose over the skyscrapers of the financial hub, while further north in the Chinese capital Beijing the moon climbed spectacularly over the citys skyline.
Ive never seen a moon this big, said Lee Pak-kan, 44, who was watching at the Hong Kong waterfront. The moon is quite orange too... its quite special.
A supermoon rises behind a statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Marina Beach in Chennai. (AFP Photo)
In the Taiwanese capital Taipei, more than 100 people queued up to get a look at the spectacle through telescopes outside a major public hall, while others flocked to the citys landmark Taipei 101 skyscraper -- one of the worlds tallest buildings -- to witness the supermoon.
Its quite moving, to see it up close. Its so big, so round, so bright, said Julia Lee, who was peering through a telescope outside the hall.
More super than others
The supermoon was visible across much of India although residents of New Delhi, the worlds most polluted capital, struggled to see it clearly through the toxic smog that has been shrouding the city in recent weeks.
Meanwhile, professional astronomers were at the ready at observatories across the region to explain the phenomenon to curious members of the public.
In Thailand, astrologers were variously predicting the supermoon would bring disaster or great fortune.
Soraja Nuan-yoo, renowned for predicting the 2004 tsunami that killed many in Thailand and other countries round the Indian Ocean, warned that when the moon gets close to the Earth, natural disasters happen.
The supermoon appears over the landmark Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in Mumbai. (PTI Photo)
The supermoon also means a stronger high tide, something that gets surfers giddy with excitement, not only at the prospect of riding bigger waves, but doing so at night.
Forecasters had predicted higher than usual tides on Indonesias Bali, a favourite with surfers.
A supermoon rises as the colourful lights flicker in the foreground at a Gurudwara in Chandigarh. (REUTERS)
But the holiday island was overcast and rainy when the moon rose, with surfers deciding not to take to the waters.
Astronomers say it can be hard to notice that the moon appears brighter than usual. Once it is high in the sky, it can be hard to tell it is larger but on the horizon, it could appear quite spectacular.
The supermoon sets behind the CN tower in Toronto. (AP Photo)
To get the best view, Pascal Descamps of the Paris Observatory recommended that people choose somewhere with a well-known landmark in the foreground. Supermoons are actually quite common -- there is one every 14 months on average.
But some supermoons are more super than others, said Descamps.
The moon rises beyond the Arch in St. Louis as seen from the Compton Hill Water Tower. (AP Photo)
Most complaints of child sexual abuse in Malaysia do not lead to successful prosecutions, largely due to weaknesses in the nations criminal justice system, police, lawmakers and child welfare groups say.
According to classified data, Malaysian police compiled and shared with Reuters, 12,987 cases of child sexual abuse were reported to police between January 2012 and July of this year. Charges were filed in 2,189 cases, resulting in just 140 convictions.
The data doesnt show how many people were involved, or what happened in the cases where there were no convictions after charges were filed. No details were disclosed in the cases where there were convictions.
Child rights advocates have long pushed the government to publicly disclose data on child sexual abuse to increase awareness so action can be taken to address what they call a growing problem.
A veil was lifted in June when a British court handed Richard Huckle 22 life sentences for abusing up to 200 babies and children, mostly in Malaysia, and sharing images of his crimes on the dark web.
The reason the Malaysian government doesnt publish child sexual abuse data is because it is protected under Malaysias Official Secrets Act. The government provides data on child abuse only at the request of a member of parliament.
We dont want people to misinterpret it, said Ong Chin Lan, the head of the Sexual, Women and Children Investigation Division of the Malaysian national police. The government doesnt want to unduly alarm the public about possibly high numbers of child abuse cases, she explained.
It is unclear how Malaysias number of reported cases compares with its neighbours, some of whom are also reluctant to disclose a high incidence of child sexual abuse.
Thailands government declined to provide data to Reuters. A senior health ministry official, who did not want to be identified, said it could make Thailand look bad.
Cambodia, long known as a destination for travelling paedophiles, also does not disclose official data.
Criminal justice weakness
Weak policing and child protection laws make it difficult to punish child abusers in Malaysia, leading to inadequate investigations and low convictions on the reported cases, according to officials and child welfare groups Reuters interviewed.
They also say a significant number of child sexual abuse cases are never reported because of taboos around child sex abuse and mistrust of authorities.
In 17 years of operation, PS the Children, Malaysias biggest NGO dealing with child abuse, has seen zero convictions on the cases it has handled, its founder Madeleine Yong told Reuters.
There needs to be improvement in the criminal justice system if we want to encourage more people to report, otherwise we will re-victimize the child, she said.
Ong at the sexual crimes unit said police take every case of child sexual abuse seriously and all cases are investigated in detail.
Police blame weak laws and rules governing court evidence that give little weight to childrens testimony as the reason most cases never result in charges.
Malaysia does not have a law specifically prohibiting child pornography and defines rape narrowly as penile penetration. Grooming - touching and befriending children as a prelude to sexual abuse - draws no legal penalties.
By contrast, Indonesias parliament has passed legislation authorising chemical castration, minimum sentences and even execution for convicted paedophiles. Thailand introduced stricter laws against child pornography last year.
A Child Sexual Crimes bill, expected to be introduced to parliament by the end of the year, would widen the definition of sexual crimes to include online abuse, and make such crimes easier to prosecute. It would also set up a special court to deal with child sex abuse cases more quickly.
The dark web
Foreign paedophiles could be targeting Malaysia as other countries around the region strengthen child protection laws and step up enforcement, some experts said.
Snow White Smelser, programme officer at the child sex offences team in the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) East Asia headquarters in Bangkok, said paedophiles compare notes and share information online about countries, where they can operate most freely.
Elena Martellozzo, a London-based criminologist who specializes in child sex abuse on the internet, said Huckle could have chosen Malaysia because it was not on the radar, or perhaps its where he found it easier to get work permits, visas and some work opportunities.
Typically, children are sexually abused by someone they know - a neighbour, a relative, a caregiver, or someone like Huckle, who according to court testimony groomed children in an impoverished ethnic Indian neighbourhood in Kuala Lumpur.
But increasingly, paedophile activity is moving into the online world, police say.
Australian detectives who investigate paedophiles in the region believe Malaysia has become one of Southeast Asias biggest centres for the transmission of child pornography on the Internet.
Team Argos, the Australian detective unit that found Huckle in the dark web in late 2014, made a startling discovery from the teams scouring of online paedophile networks: the unusual number of internet addresses in the Kuala Lumpur area transmitting child sexual abuse material from the dark web.
The dark web is a vast virtual space within the Internet, which requires special encryption tools to access.
The Brisbane, Australia-based detectives found 1,000 transmissions of child pornographic materials from the Malaysian capital over a 24-hour period last year, according to Argos data provided by the UNODC.
It was the second-largest transmission location in Southeast Asia after Bangkoks 1,800 - Bangkoks population of 8.2 million is more than four times that of Kuala Lumpurs.
The Malaysian capital is a high concern location for the distribution of child sexual abuse materials, said Smelser at the UNODC.
Ong at the child sex crime unit said Malaysian police cant properly monitor the encrypted paedophile networks. We do not have expertise in handling the dark web. We get alerted from our counterparts overseas, she said.
Iraqi soldiers recaptured the town of Nimrud on Sunday and the nearby ruins of the 3,000-year-old Assyrian city, which was overrun and bulldozed two years ago by Islamic State militants.
Nimrud, once the capital of an empire stretching across the ancient Middle East, is one of several historic sites looted and ransacked by the militants when they seized large parts of northern Iraq two years ago.
The militant group, whose ultra-hardliner doctrine deems the countrys pre-Islamic religious heritage idolatrous, released video footage last year showing its fighters bulldozing, drilling and blowing up murals and statues at Nimrud.
Those statues included the famous winged bulls with human faces, known as lamassu, which stood at the entrances to the palace of Ashurnasirpal II, king of Assyria in the 9th century BC, and nearby temples on the site.
Troops from the Ninth Armoured Division liberated Nimrud town completely and raised the Iraqi flag above its buildings, the statement said.
Army officers later told Iraqi television that Islamic State had also been driven from the old city, 1 km (less than 1 mile) east of the town, which formed the capital of an Assyrian empire reaching from Egypt to parts of modern-day Iran and Turkey.
Nimrud lies on the eastern bank of the Tigris river, 30 km south of Mosul where Iraqi soldiers are battling Islamic State for the largest city under the militants control in Iraq and neighbouring Syria.
Victory for humanity
Iraqs deputy culture minister Qais Hussain Rasheed said that recapturing the remains of Iraqs rich heritage from the jihadists was a triumph for the whole world.
Islamic State still controls other Assyrian landmarks including the ruins of Nineveh and Khorsabad, as well as the 2,000-year-old desert city of Hatra, famed for its pillared temple which blended Graeco-Roman and eastern architecture.
Liberation of ancient Iraqi archeological sites from the control of forces of dark and evil is a victory not only to Iraqis but for all humanity, Rasheed, deputy minister for tourism and antiquities at the culture ministry, told Reuters.
Iraqi workers mop the floor at the Assyrian Hall of the Iraq National Museum Baghdad. (AP FIle Photo)
The scale of the damage inflicted on the sites is not completely clear, but Iraqi officials say some buildings have been totally destroyed.
A report by Rasheeds ministry last year said one of the carved wall panels at Nimruds northern palace was stolen in July 2014. Eight months later, far greater damage was inflicted.
The militants destroyed 10 winged bulls, located at the palace gates and at the temple of Ishtar godess of love, war, sex and power and Nabu god of literature and wisdom.
A month later in April 2015 the gangs completely blew up the city and its ancient buildings the report said.
Rasheed said antiquities authorities had given detailed coordinates to Iraqi forces on the ground and their US-led air support to avoid any accidental damage to the archaeological sites, and also provided information to commanders about the heritage and antiquities of Nineveh where they are operating.
Once sites are retaken from the militants, a special antiquities security team will join security forces there to help them preserve the sites, he added.
Nimrud was excavated in the 19th century by British archaeologist Austen Layard. Max Mallowan and his wife, crime writer Agatha Christie, worked at Nimrud in the 1950s.
Her experiences in Iraq, and journeys from Britain to the Middle East, formed the background to several of her novels including Murder on the Orient Express and Murder in Mesopotamia.
From Afghanistan to Algeria, jihadists plan to use Donald Trumps shock U.S. presidential victory as a propaganda tool to bring new fighters to their battlefields.
Taliban commanders and Islamic State supporters say Trumps campaign trail rhetoric against Muslims - at one point calling for a total shutdown of Muslims entering the United States - will play perfectly in their recruitment efforts, especially for disaffected youth in the West.
This guy is a complete maniac. His utter hate towards Muslims will make our job much easier because we can recruit thousands, Abu Omar Khorasani, a top IS commander in Afghanistan, told Reuters.
Trump has talked tough against militant groups on the campaign trail, promising to defeat radical Islamic terrorism just as we won the Cold War.
The president-elect later toned down his call for a total ban on Muslim entry to say he would temporarily suspend immigration from countries that have a history of exporting terrorism.
But he has offered few details on his plans to combat various radical groups, including IS, the Taliban and al Qaeda, which represent a wide spectrum of political views.
He does not differentiate between extremist and moderate Islamist trends and, at the same time, he overlooks (the fact) that his extremism will generate extremism in return, Iraqs powerful Shiite Muslim cleric Moqtada al-Sadr said in a statement.
Sadrs political reform movement, which commands thousands of followers, is a staunch opponent of the radical Sunni movements IS and al Qaeda, and unlike them has not waged or promoted attacks in the West.
The United States has seen a handful of attacks inspired by Islamist militant groups, including the June massacre of 49 people at an Orlando nightclub by a gunman who called a TV station swearing allegiance to IS and the killing of 14 people at a San Bernadino, California, social services agency last December.
U.S. officials have warned the country will likely face a higher risk of similar attacks as IS urges supporters to launch attacks at home instead of joining its fight in the Middle East.
Our leaders were closely following the U.S. election but it was unexpected that the Americans will dig their own graves and they did so, said ISs Khorasani, who described President Barack Obama as a moderate infidel with at least a little brain in comparison to Trump.
Al Qaeda, which has proven resilient more than 15 years after launching the Sept. 11 attacks on New York and the Pentagon, has yet to comment on Trumps victory.
The militant group will likely respond after Trumps first speeches as president, anticipating they will be able to exploit his comments to win support, said Hisham al Hashemi, who advises the Iraqi government on Sunni jihadist movements.
Al Qaeda is known for its recruitment strategy that heavily quotes speeches of the White House and other Western officials, he told Reuters.
Propaganda Machine
Trumps office did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the statements from the militants.
Even if Trump tones down his anti-Muslim comments when he takes office in January, analysts say his statements during the campaign trail were enough to fuel the militants propaganda machine.
Militants will still use those quotes, said Matthew Henman, head of IHS Janes Terrorism and Insurgency Centre.
The key thing militant groups, particularly Islamic State and al Qaeda, depend on for recruitment purposes is convincing Muslims in the Western world that the West hates them and wont ever accept them as part of their society.
A senior Taliban commander in Afghanistan said the group, whose resurgence is undermining efforts to end Americas longest war, had kept track of all of Trumps speeches and anti-Muslim comments.
If he does what he warned in his election campaign, I am sure it will provoke Muslim Ummah (community) across the world and jihadi organisations can exploit it, said the militant leader, who declined to be identified because of strict Taliban policy that only its official spokesman can make statements.
An alliance of Janajati and Madhesi parties opposed to Nepals new Constitution warned on Monday that it would organise protests if Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda did not take steps to amend the statute within 15 days.
A delegation of the Sanghiya Gathabandhan, which comprises 29 parties, delivered the ultimatum during a meeting with Prachanda. The alliance handed over a memorandum to Prachanda that warned of protests if the government delays in registering a proposal in Parliament to amend the Constitution.
We request for registering the Constitution amendment bill within 15 days from today based on our approval as well, the Sanghiya Gathabandhan said in its memorandum.
The Janajati and Madhesi parties said no progress had been made in addressing their demands since the Prachanda-led government assumed office three months ago.
Nepal was roiled by protests against the new Constitution last year. The countrys economy was hit by a prolonged blockade of trade points along the border with India.
The Sanghiya Gathabandhans delegation said the Constitution had failed to address the hopes and aspirations of different classes and communities, including indigenous nationalities.
Though there were divergent views among the Madhesi parties about serving the ultimatum, they are standing firm on the demand that the government should address their grievances.
The Madhesi parties in the Sanghiya Gathabandhan have organised protests over their demands, including the demarcation of the provincial borders, citizenship and proportional representation based on population.
The Sanghiya Gathabandhan also demanded the implementation of the agreement it had signed with the Nepali Congress and the CPN-Unity Centre at the time of the formation of Prachandas government.
Federal Socialist Forum Nepal chairman Upendra Yadav, who led the delegation that met the prime minister, told the media that Prachanda had expressed his determination to resolve the problems raised by the Sanghiya Gathabandhan.
Carbon emissions from burning fossil fuels have been nearly flat for three years in a row a great help but not enough to stave off dangerous global warming, a report said Monday.
Emissions of planet-warming carbon dioxide stayed level in 2015 at 36.3 billion tonnes (GtCO2) and were projected to rise only slightly, by 0.2 percent in 2016, according to the annual Global Carbon Budget report compiled by teams of scientists from around the world.
This third year of almost no growth in emissions is unprecedented at a time of strong economic growth, said research leader Corinne Le Quere of the University of East Anglia.
Driven largely by reduced coal use in China, this was a clear and unprecedented break with the preceding decades fast emissions growth, at a rate of some 2.3 percent per year from 2004 to 2013, before dipping to 0.7 percent in 2014.
Read | US President-elect Trump looking at fast ways to quit Paris climate deal: Report
This is a great help for tackling climate change but it is not enough, said Le Quere.
For the worlds nations to make true on the global pact to limit average global warming to two degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) over pre-Industrial Revolution levels, emissions must do more than level off, the study found.
A decrease of 0.9 percent per year was needed to 2030.
The concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere has continued to grow, the report warned, hitting a record level of 23 GtCO2 last year that looked set to reach 25 GtCO2 in 2016.
Quota running out
The analysis was published in the journal Earth System Science Data, to coincide with the UN climate conference in Morocco.
Climate envoys are gathered in Marrakesh to put plans in place to execute the so-called Paris Agreement concluded in the French capital a year ago.
It envisions a dramatic reduction in greenhouse gas-producing coal, oil and gas use for energy.
The new report said humanity has emitted 2,075 GtCO2 since 1870 -- adding 40 GtCO2 in 2016 alone.
We have already used more than two thirds of the emissions quota to keep climate change well below two degrees, it warned.
The remaining quota would be used up in less than 30 years at the current emissions level.
A girl carries a sign that read climate justice for all as she takes part in a protest against climate change coinciding with the Climate Conference, known as COP22, taking place in Marrakech, Morocco. (AP)
Under the so-called Paris Agreements predecessor the Kyoto Protocol, rich nations had to meet emissions reduction targets. Developing countries were excused as they needed coal and oil to fuel rapidly growing populations and economies.
China, despite not having any Kyoto targets, has been fast moving away from coal -- driven in large part by major air pollution concerns.
After growth of 5.3 percent per year from 2005-2014, China recorded a decline of 0.7 percent in 2015 and is set for a 0.5 percent drop in 2016.
Read | India to push for consensus on climate justice at Marrakech meet
This decline in the worlds most populous nation and biggest greenhouse gas polluter largely accounts for the global trend, the report said.
The worlds number two emitter, the United States, decreased emissions by 2.6 percent in 2015, with a fall of 1.7 percent projected for 2017.
The election of Donald Trump, who has threatened to cancel the Paris pact, has cast a long shadow over the Marrakesh talks, where many fear the US will abandon its targets to the detriment of the global goals.
Make love, not CO2
Thousands of people marched on Marrakesh to demand climate justice from global envoys gathered for UN talks on staving off worst-case-scenario global warming.
It is an international march for all the people who suffer the results of climate change, yet had no role in causing it, said Mohamed Leghtas of a Moroccan climate coalition of environment, human rights and labour groups.
Climate change is a triple injustice: committed by the north against the south, by current generations against future ones, and by a minority which enriches itself from fossil fuel energy against the poor who are left to pick up the pieces, he told AFP.
Read | Paris climate pact focus shifts to action
Native Peruvians, Berber groups and African associations formed part of the procession which snaked through the city, brandishing placards reading: Make love, not CO2, and 1.5 C to stay alive.
The latter refers to the goals of the climate rescue Paris Agreement concluded at the previous round of UN talks in the French capital in 2015, and set the goal of limiting global warming to two degrees Celsius, or 1.5 C if possible.
We are here to demand respect and to urge the world to commit to cutting greenhouse gases, blamed for warming the planet, added Antolin Huascar of Perus agricultural confederation.
People participate in a protest against climate change, in a march coinciding with the Climate Conference, known as COP22, taking place in Marrakech, Morocco. (AP)
The protest took place on the sidelines of the 22nd Conference of Parties of the UNs climate convention, COP22 for short, which runs until November 18.
Diplomats must negotiate rules for putting the hard-fought Paris Agreements goals into action.
On Tuesday, they will be joined by dozens of African heads of state, French President Francois Hollande and UN chief Ban Ki-moon.
People must fight for their rights and not count on governments are under pressure from multinational corporations, Khadija Riadi, a Moroccan human rights defender told AFP at the march.
There can be no climate justice without respect for human rights.
Also Read | Historic Paris climate change agreement becomes international law
Myanmars government said Monday that 34 people were killed after they attacked government troops in Rakhine state over the weekend, but residents of the villages belonging to the Muslim Rohingya minority said the victims they saw were unarmed civilians.
The government has been conducting counter-insurgency operations since nine police were killed in attacks last month on guard posts along the border with Bangladesh generally blamed on Muslim insurgents. Tensions have been high in Rakhine since fighting in 2012 between Buddhists and Rohingya Muslims.
The government said in a statement that 28 people described as violent attackers were killed Sunday in Maungdaw district. An earlier statement said six attackers died on Saturday, in addition to two government soldiers. The attackers werent identified, but the army has aligned with Rakhine Buddhists against the Rohingya.
A Rohingya from Kyein Chaung village contacted by phone said he saw a police truck taking at least six bodies from the village on Sunday.
Other villagers, also speaking on condition of anonymity because they feared for their safety, said the people whose bodies they saw were completely unarmed.
Nay San Lwin, a blogger based in Europe who has closely monitored Rohingya developments since 2012, said some villagers possess weapons such as swords and knives, but it was unclear whether they were used against the soldiers.
Since the violence last month, villagers have been accused of burning their own houses. Villagers are hiding in the forest. No one dares to live in their own house because of the arrests and killing, said a teacher from Kyein Chaung village, who insisted he not be named.
Human rights groups accuse the army of abuses against the Rohingya minority, including killings, rapes and burning of homes. More than 100,000 Rohingya are still living in squalid camps for the internally displaced after being driven from their homes in 2012. Although Rohingya have lived in Myanmar for generations, they are widely regarded as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, and the government denies citizenship to most.
A local police officer refused to answer any questions related to the situation, saying he was not allowed to say anything. The Rakhine state government also refused to comment.
The central government statement said in one incident Sunday in Gwason village, Seven violent attackers wielding with machetes ran towards the troops in order to attack. The troops returned fire, killing six.
It said soldiers and border guard police were later attacked by about 20 violent aggressors equipped with machetes and wooden clubs while the security forces were conducting the clearance operation in Dargyizartaung village.
It said the troops fired on them and killed 19.
The earlier statement said clashes began Saturday morning when government troops were ambushed by about 60 attackers armed with guns, knives and spears. It said the troops were outnumbered in a later battle against 500 armed men, but prevailed when two air force helicopters joined the fight.
The government said attackers also set fire to local villages. Human rights groups, however, have accused government forces of burning down Rohingya villages. On Saturday, U.S.-based Human Rights Watch said satellite images showed 430 houses in three Rohingya villages had been burned, and called for an investigation by the government.
Barack Obama will travel on Monday to Greece and Germany in a final official visit designed, in a strange bit of political contortion, at reassuring worried Europeans about a man he once warned was unfit for the presidency: Donald Trump.
The irony is cruel: in the name of a peaceful transition, the American President, having thoroughly denounced the billionaire Republican during the recent campaign, must now do his best to reassure his European counterparts about the future of American democracy under a President Trump.
I think the design of the trip was meant to just give everybody some reassurance that we made it through this campaign and were going to come out of it all right, said Heather Conley of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, in Washington. We just have a different scenario now.
The bombastic populist, whose victory over Hillary Clinton surprised virtually everyone, has given Europeans ample cause for concern.
He has questioned the relevance of some of Americas paramount alliances, starting with NATO; put the Paris climate-change accord in doubt by calling global warming a hoax, and sharply criticized the strenuously negotiated pact that Washington and five other countries signed with Iran to curb its nuclear program.
Trumps attitude toward Russian President Vladimir Putin -- the New York mogul called him a leader, far more than our president has been a leader is deeply concerning in Europe, particularly in small countries like the Baltic nations living in Russias shadow.
Beyond the many concerns over the future of American foreign policy, many European Union countries are bracing for a possible ripple effect of the outspoken Republicans victory.
They are very worried, because the same populist, nationalist expressions that Trump exposed in America on immigration and trade could amplify the already very strong political currents within Europe, Conley said.
She noted that several European countries have important elections coming up, not least of them the French presidential election next spring.
In Greece on Tuesday for his first visit there, Obama is set to meet with President Prokopis Pavlopoulos and Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras.
Security will be tight in central Athens, with thousands of police officers on the streets and traffic cut off for several hours.
Civil servants, communists, far-left groups and anarchists all plan to hold demonstrations as Obama swings through the Greek capital.
The roots of populism
During a day heavy with symbolism, Obama on Wednesday will visit the Parthenon in Athens, then deliver a speech sure to have considerable resonance, given the recent US elections -- on the challenges of globalization.
His advisers, pointing to the results of that election but also to the equally stunning British vote to leave the European Union, said the US president would offer his thoughts on the reasons so many people in the world feel like decisions are made beyond their control.
Speaking at the United Nations in September, at a time when the US presidential campaign was in full stride but a Trump victory seemed anything but certain, Obama had called on his fellow leaders to come to grips with the rising frustrations fueling populist movements. He warned them against succumbing to a soulless capitalism that benefits only the few.
Twenty-five years after the Cold War, the world is less violent and more prosperous, he said, and yet there is uncertainty and strife.
This is the paradox that defines our world today, he said, stressing that a world in which one percent of the people control as much wealth as the other 99 percent can never be stable.
For his sixth visit to Germany since coming to power in 2009, the Democratic president will again meet with Chancellor Angela Merkel, long one of his closest foreign partners, according to Ben Rhodes, the US national security adviser.
The day after his election, the chancellor pointedly reminded Trump of the criteria that have long bound the two countries in close cooperation: democracy, freedom, as well as respect for the rule of law and the dignity of each and every person, regardless of their origin, skin color, creed, gender, sexual orientation or political views.
Obama will also meet in Germany with French President Francois Hollande -- who once said Trumps excesses made people want to retch -- British Prime Minister Theresa May, and Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi. The leaders plan to discuss the crises in Syria and Ukraine, as well as the fight against the Islamic State group.
The American president will conclude his trip with a stop in Peru for a summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum (APEC). Among the leaders he is expected to meet there is President Xi Jinping of China.
Also read | US election: Trumps joy is a stinging personal blow for Obama
President-elect Donald Trumps first major appointments announced on Sunday signalled an approach that will engage the establishment he railed against as nominee and pit it against outside, populist forces that helped him win the White House.
Trump named Reince Priebus, the widely acceptable three-term chairman of the Republican National Committee and a Washington insider, as his chief of staff, indicating his willingness to engage with the party establishment that he disparaged on the stump.
He also named Steven Bannon, a hard-charging media executive closely aligned with the partys extreme right elements that fuelled Trumps candidacy, as his chief strategist. He has been accused of making racist and anti-Semitic remarks, which he has denied.
Comparisons of Reince Priebus, Donald Trump's White House chief of staff, and Steve Bannon, his top strategist. (AFP)
I am thrilled to have my very successful team continue with me in leading our country, Trump said in a statement. Steve and Reince are highly qualified leaders who worked well together on our campaign and led us to a historic victory. Now I will have them both with me in the White House as we work to make America great again.
Priebus and Bannon will work as equal partners to transform the federal government, the statement said, signalling the creation of competing centres of power in a Trump White House. They will directly report to Trump.
Priebus, whose experience in Washington and close friendship with Speaker Paul Ryan will help Trump work with Congress to push his legislative agenda, got the vote of Trumps children, who wanted a non-controversial chief of staff.
Read | Trumps radical 100-day plan: How he aims to make America great again
Bannon has been a deeply divisive figure who headed Breitbart News, an extreme right publication that became a Trump campaign mouthpiece, and who, according to divorce papers filed by his former wife, has said he didnt like Jewish people.
While looking at a school for their daughters in Los Angeles, the ex-wife said Bannon described the biggest problem he had with Archer (a school) is the number of Jews that attend. He said that he doesnt like Jews and that he doesnt like the way they raise their kids to be whiney brats and that he didnt want the girls going to school with Jews.
Breitbart News, which he headed, ran headlines such as Birth control makes women unattractive and crazy, Hillary Clintons Muslim Brotherhood problem, and Data: Young Muslims in the west are a ticking time bomb, increasingly identifying with radial, terror.
His appointment expectedly drew widespread criticism. It is a sad day when a man who presided over the premier website of the alt-right a loose-knit group of white nationalists and unabashed anti-Semites and racists is slated to be a senior staff member in the peoples house, Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, which tracks and battles anti-Semitism, said in a statement.
The Council on American-Islamic Relationss Nihad Awad said in a statement, The appointment of Stephen Bannon as a top Trump administration strategist sends the disturbing message that anti-Muslim conspiracy theories and white nationalist ideology will be welcome in the White House.
Even Republicans were concerned. The racist, fascist extreme right is represented footsteps from the Oval Office, John Weaver, a former adviser to Ohio Republican governor John Kasich, wrote on Twitter, adding, Be very vigilant America.
And some Trump supporters as well. George W Bushs chief of staff John Sununu conceded in an interview to CNN that Bannon was a controversial pick.
Read | Petition asks electors to make Clinton the US president instead of Trump
Congress still has some unfinished business before closing shop for the year, even as the focus shifts to the agenda of President-elect Donald Trump and unified Republican control of Congress and the White House in 2017.
Trumps election will reset the balance of power in Washington, but until noon on Jan. 20, President Barack Obama decides what can become law. Already, Obama priorities such as a controversial trade deal with Pacific nations and the long-stalled nomination of Judge Merrick Garland to the Supreme Court are off the table. Tuesdays results were the final nails in the coffin.
But other fights, such as a Republican revolt over a move by Obama to impose workplace protections for gay and transgender employers of defense contractors which has stalled the annual Pentagon policy measure may be defused until next year. And working with Obama to wrap up more than $1 trillion worth of remaining agency budget bills seems likely to slip.
Here are the highlights of the agenda of the lame-duck Congress which returns on Monday:
Spending
Chronic dysfunction has enveloped the once vibrant process of passing 12 annual agency spending bills. This year a major obstacle has been a fight between Obama and congressional Republicans over GOP efforts to use gamesmanship to boost Pentagon spending while freezing domestic programs under the terms of last years budget pact.
The government is currently functioning under a stopgap spending bill that expires Dec. 9. Something has to pass by then or else the government will shut down. Some top Republicans, like senate majority leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, would like to wrap up the bills and not clutter up next years agenda. But house conservatives and outside groups like heritage action, an advocacy arm of the conservative heritage foundation, say the measures should not advance in the lame-duck session. And action next year could give Republicans an opportunity to score early victories under a Trump presidency.
Given Washingtons penchant for lowest-common-denominator solutions, the likeliest outcome is another short-term funding extension that would punt the bills into next year.
Defense
Congress has passed a defense policy bill every year for more than five decades and lawmakers in both parties want to keep the streak alive.
But a key sticking point in deliberations over the must pass $602 billion defense policy bill is a provision Obama and Senate Democrats say would undercut protections against workplace discrimination based on sexual or gender orientation. Theyre demanding the provision, propelled by House conservatives, be removed from the bill, which authorizes military spending for the new fiscal year that started Oct. 1.
Now that Trump has been elected, Republicans could beat a temporary retreat, knowing the issue could be revisited next year.
Lawmakers also continue to grapple with how much additional money to spend on weapon systems that the Pentagon didnt request in its budget. The House has proposed $18 billion, arguing the investment is needed to halt a decline in the combat readiness of the U.S. armed forces. But the senates version of the bill didnt include the spending boost, leading to the impasse.
Iran Sanctions
The clock is ticking for Congress to renew a decades-old law that allows the United States to hit companies with economic sanctions for doing business with Iran. Congress first passed the Iran Sanctions Act in 1996 and has extended it several times since then. The law is to expire at the end of the year and there is strong bipartisan support for legislation that would extend it by another decade. Its on the House schedule this week.
Secretary of state John Kerry signalled earlier this year that President Barack Obama would sign into law a bill that renews the sanctions.
Medical Research and Development
McConnell has said one of his top priorities will be bipartisan legislation to speed federal approval of drugs and medical devices and boost biomedical research.
The legislation is intended to streamline how federal regulators assess the safety of new treatments and let them reach markets more quickly. Supporters say that with advances like genetic mapping and biologic medicines produced in living cells, its time to speed research and development.
The house passed its version of the legislation last year. The senate is still negotiating its bill, which may target new dollars to the National Institutes of Health and the Food and Drug Administration. McConnell has said he is interested in more money for regenerative medicine, Obama is interested in precision medicine and vice president Joe Biden has sought new funding for cancer research since his son Beau died of brain cancer in 2015.
Some consumer organizations have opposed the bill, arguing the measure would erode government safeguards against dangerous and ineffective products.
Chinese President Xi Jinping told US President-elect Donald Trump that cooperation was the only choice for relations between the worlds two largest economies, with Trump saying the two had established a clear sense of mutual respect.
There has been intense speculation over the impact of Trumps win on issues facing the two countries, from global trade and climate change to the security balance in the Asia-Pacific.
Trump lambasted China throughout the US election campaign, drumming up headlines with his pledges to slap 45 percent tariffs on imported Chinese goods and to label the country a currency manipulator on his first day in office.
His election has injected uncertainty into relations at a time when Beijing hopes for stability as it faces daunting reform challenges at home, slowing growth and a leadership reshuffle of its own that will put a new party elite around Xi in late 2017.
In their first interaction since the US election, Chinese state media said Xi told Trump in a telephone call on Monday that as the worlds largest developing and developed economies, there were many areas where China and the United States could cooperate.
The facts prove that cooperation is the only correct choice for China and the United States, China Central Television (CCTV) cited Xi as saying.
Xis remarks were a reiteration of phrasing typically used by Beijing to describe bilateral relations.
The two sides must promote the two countries economic development and global economic growth and push for better development going forward in China-US relations, Xi said.
During the call, the leaders established a clear sense of mutual respect for one another, and President-elect Trump stated that he believes the two leaders will have one of the strongest relationships for both countries moving forward, a statement from Trumps presidential transition office said.
The two agreed to maintain close communications and meet soon, CCTV said. Xi had congratulated Trump in a message delivered shortly after his surprise election victory last week.
The Global Times, a nationalist tabloid published by the ruling Communist Partys Peoples Daily newspaper, said if Trump slapped China with heavy tariffs it would paralyse bilateral trade.
When the time comes, large orders for Boeing planes would switch to Europe, US auto sales in China would face setbacks, Apple phones would essentially be crowded out, and US soybeans and corn would be eradicated from China, the paper said in a commentary.
Trump, coming from a business background, is very astute. We do not believe he will treat China-US trade so childishly.
China has signalled it will promote plans for regional trade integration, vowing to seek support for a Beijing-backed Asia-Pacific free trade area at a summit in Peru later this month, after Trumps win dashed hopes for the US-led Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).
Trumps criticism of US allies, including Japan, for free-riding on US security guarantees, has deepened anxiety among Washingtons allies about its commitment to post-war security arrangements in the face of a rising China and volatile North Korea.
Trump appears to be seeking quick ways to withdraw the United States from a global accord to combat climate change, which has been billed by China and US President Barack Obama as a key area for cooperation.
In March, after Ted Cruz and John Kasich won big home-state primaries, it suddenly looked as if no Republican candidate would come to the national GOP convention in Cleveland with a majority of delegates. The contest would go to a second ballot or be brokered by party elders. No way, warned front-runner Donald Trump. If he came to Cleveland with the most votes, a majority or not, Trump expected to be crowned. Otherwise, I think youd have riots, the New Yorker quoted Trump as saying. Im representing a tremendous many, many millions of people. But in April, Cruz and Kasich withdrew, and prospects for a long, hot convention vanished.
Meanwhile, Bernie Sanders was fighting Hillary Clinton for every Democratic delegate. In May, angry Sanders supporters disrupted a Nevada state convention they said had been rigged against them.
American political parties have been making noise, history, and presidential nominations at days-long gatherings of delegates, alternates, journalists, and hangers-on for over 180 years. But conventions are nothing sacred; they arose from the culture of the 1830s and no longer serve any practical purpose apart from boosting TV ratings.
George Washingtons presidential campaigns, in 1789 and 1792, were zero sweat. The office had been created with him in mind, and the Electoral College twice bestowed it on him unanimously. Between 1796 and 1816, the men aspiring to fill Washingtons shoes were picked by caucuses of congressmen belonging to the first two partiesthe Federalists and the Republicans (Jeffersonians). This circumscribed method was convenient: Only in Congress did politicians from around the country meet regularly. The technique also suited Thomas Jefferson, who liked to pretend that he was doing congressional Republicans will, when in fact he was directing them.
Critics condemned the caucus system as secretive and elitist. They write private letters to each other, but do nothing to give direction to the public mind, one Federalist complained of his partys congressmen. Can good come out of such a system?
The increasing democratization of American life and the Second Great Awakening, a nationwide religious revival of the early 1800s, revolutionized the nomination process. Americans seeking salvation gathered at huge meetings in halls and in the open air; why not pick presidential candidates the same way? In September 1831, the first national political convention met in the Baltimore Athenaeum, at what is now the site of Maryland Institute College of Art. The conveners were the Anti-Masons, a party devoted to exposing alleged Masonic misdeeds. When Chief Justice John Marshall declined their nomination, the Anti-Masons tapped former Attorney General William Wirt, a lapsed Mason who now called the organization a wicked conspiracy. Wirt ended up carrying only Vermont, and the Anti-Masons petered out. But the convention concept was adopted by all parties, major and minor.
Then, as now, conventions voted by state, sometimes calling the roll geographically north to south, more often alphabetically. If a first ballot produced no winner, balloting continued until some pol prevailed; for a century, a Democrat needed a supermajority of two-thirds to win. Conventions also approved platforms, or statements of party principle, and ruled on delegate eligibilityordinarily, housekeeping matters but, in some closely divided situations, bitterly contested.
Conventions developed a lingo: a pol making a surprise late surge was a dark horse. The impulse to rally to a candidate apparently on the verge of winning was a stampede. Shrewd campaign managers learned to manipulate auditorium layouts and logistics. At the 1860 Republican convention in Chicago, a Lincoln man in charge of seating separated New Yorks delegation, solid for front-runner William Seward, and Pennsylvanias, pledged to Simon Cameron. The idea was to keep Lincolns rivals from communicating easily; after Cameron dropped out, Pennsylvania swung not to Seward but to Lincoln, who won on the third ballot.
The 1940 GOP convention in Philadelphia was decided in the galleries, not on the floor. Samuel Pryor, in charge of arrangements, packed the bleachers with supporters of dark horse and former Democrat Wendell Willkie. Shouts of We want Willkie, raining on the delegates below, broke regular Republicans resolve. Willkie won on the sixth ballot.
In bad-luck years, a party convenes so divided that no artfulness or guile can hold it together. The front-runner going into the April 1860 Democratic convention in Charleston was Stephen Douglas, who had been working both sides of the slavery issue. To please Southerners, Douglas urged that popular votes settle the status of slavery in territories; to woo the North, he scorned a pro-slavery vote in the Kansas Territory as rigged. Southerners disdained Douglass maneuvers. He led for 57 ballots but never reached two-thirds. Exhausted Democrats recessed for two months, then reassembled in Baltimore and declared Douglas their nominee. Angry Southerners, meeting in a parallel convention, nominated Vice President John Breckinridge. After Lincoln beat his Democratic rivals, Douglas stood by the Union. Breckinridge fought as a Confederate general.
In 1912, the Republican Party came to its convention in Chicago divided between incumbent William Howard Taft and former President Theodore Roosevelt, eager to reclaim his old job. TR had mustered great momentum, beating Taft in nine of 12 primaries.But Taft had more delegates, picked at state conventions or by party bosses. Taft forces wrapped the rostrum in barbed wire camouflaged with bunting, lest Roosevelt supporters storm the stage. Taft won on the first ballot; Roosevelt bolted to form a new Progressive Party. Their split elected Woodrow Wilson.
Technology ended such drama. As pundit Michael Barone explains, airliners and long-distance direct dialing let party bosses cement deals ahead of time. It is no accident that the last presidential candidate selected after more than one ballot was Democrat Adlai Stevenson in 1952. Primaries and caucuses became universal after 1972, tying up the lions share of delegates no matter what party bigwigs might say. Conventions have become venues for hoopla, speeches, spin, and occasionally mayhem. As a maker of nominees, the convention is a ceremony, a spectacleand a splendid relic.
This story was originally published in the September/October 2016 issue of American History magazine. Subscribe here.
On December 7, 1907, 300 to 500 men, armed and mounted in columns of two, all wearing masks and white sashes, rode into Hopkinsville, seat of Christian County, Kentucky. Advance parties disarmed the small citys police force, occupied the Cumberland Telegraph and Home Telephone offices, and dynamited three warehouses packed with valuable fire-cured tobacco.
While the warehouses burned, the interlopers destroyed the offices of the Hopkinsville Kentuckian, the local newspaper. After beating an Imperial Tobacco Co. buyer and wounding a Louisville & Nashville Railroad brakeman who was trying to save a burning freight car, the attackers formed up at Ninth and Main, the center of town, holstered their weapons, and rode off. A posse of 11 citizens pursued; two of those townsmen died in a running gun battle. The violent times that included the Hopkinsville attack would become known as the Black Patch Wars and would enter Christian County folklore.
Hopkinsville, a tobacco shipping center served by the L&N and Illinois Southern railroads, played a prominent role in the region called the Black Patch for its main cropa strain of tobacco cured over burning hardwood that turned the leaf black, imparting a savory flavor that chewing tobacco and snuff users prized. The rolling hills of the Patchat its center three counties in west Tennessee and six counties in Kentuckyprovided well-drained fields for growing tobacco, and forests of hickory and oak provided fuel for the curing fire.
Growers large and smallplantation owners, their sharecroppers, and smaller independent farmersharvested and smoked the leaf they grew and brought it in bales to a locally owned warehouse. Buyers representing chewing tobacco or snuff manufacturers inspected and bid for individual lots at auction. The dark-fire leaf would be packed in hogsheads and stored for months, even years. Competition for the best crop was strong.
In the 1880s, North Carolina tobacco industry scion James Buchanan Duke began buying up and consolidating smaller manufacturers into his American Tobacco Company. By the early 1900s, Dukes giant company, in partnership with British Imperial Tobacco Company and Italian firm Regie, dominated the chewing tobacco market and squelched competition. Farmers had no choice but to bring their crop to an American Tobaccocontrolled warehouse and accept the price offered, even at a loss.
The same pattern was playing out across American agriculture, as industrial consolidation created manufacturing behemoths called trusts that dictated prices for grain, meat, and other commodities. In 1890, President Benjamin Harrison signed into law the Sherman Anti-Trust Act, starting a decades-long federal fight against trusts like Dukes.
To battle trusts, angry farmers in the Midwest and West organized the Grange, the Farmers Alliance, the Populist Party, and other economic self-defense organizations. In the South, the revolt took on a different character, particularly in the Black Patch, where dark-fire tobacco farmers exacted rough economic justice in a fiery campaign that began with lofty intent but descended into bloody fury before burning out.
In 1903, growers in the Black Patch had to stand helplessly as the trust cut prices for their leaf to four and even two cents a pound. During the 1904 harvesting season, facing impoverishment, planters of the local elite called a meeting in Guthrie, Kentucky, on the Tennessee border. On September 23, thousands lined up in a festive atmosphere to join the newly formed Dark Tobacco District Planters Protective Association of Kentucky and Tennessee. The associations pitch was simple: Growers would deliver their dark-fire crop not to American Tobacco but to the association, which would hold the leaf until buyers offered at least eight cents a pound.
The association dispatched recruiters throughout the region to visit farmers in churches, stores, and schoolhouses. Big plantation owners saw the association as the only way to preserve their way of life; independent white farmers were less likely to go along because they saw collective action as infringing on individual liberty. Caught in the middle were black sharecroppers, many of them former slaves. The association didnt invite blacks to join; it simply expected them to do as they were told.
Economic reality undercut the effort. Wealthy planters could wait out American Tobacco, and even help tenants get by, but small operators derided as hillbillies needed cash immediately, and Dukes buyers were paying eight cents to defecting growers.
The association tried shaming, then shunning turncoats. A merchant who spoke against the group lost customers. Dissenting preachers watched their churches empty. The associations public face was polite and peaceful, at least to whites, and by the movements peak in 1907, 70 percent of Black Patch farmers had pledged allegiance to the group.
Leaf prices began to rise, but with his deep pockets and enormous buying power, Duke was picking off growers, even association stalwarts. The planters faced the same problem as unions: How to enforce solidarity? They tried the same tactics as organized labor: First persuasion, then force. In November 1905, after growers had harvested and readied crop for sale, the association adopted resolutions that Kentuckian publisher Charles Meacham later recounted:
We, the Farmers,proclaim and enunciate the following truth(s): Of the infamous trusts doing business in violation of the law, the Tobacco Trust is the most greedy and oppressive in that it robs the laborer and share-cropper of a just price for his only money crop.
The resolution denounced in the severest terms growers selling to American Tobacco. We, as an association, withdraw our support from any manwho, by word or deed, lend[s] assistance to our trust enemies. Now the nightriding would begin.
The riders belonged to a secret paramilitary group that authorities never officially could link to the planters association. Members called themselves the Silent Brigade and organized into county lodges. They took oaths, learned secret handshakes, and memorized passwords, vowing harsh penalties against anyone trading with the trust. Only David Amoss, a physician from Cobb, Kentucky, was ever identified in court as a brigade leader. Emulating the Ku Klux Klan, members wore white sashes and masks that served less to hide identities than to enable witnesses to swear they had not recognized individuals they might have seen.
As its first targets, in spring 1906, the brigade picked independent farmers trading with Duke. A grower balking at a warning would find a threatening letter signed The night riders nailed to a barn door. That spring, the vigilantes sabotaged noncompliant growers planting beds by hoeing under the tobacco seedlings or sowing the planting grounds with salt or grass seed.
Amid threats and attacks, the association campaigned for solidarity. After a series of open meetings, a second gathering took place in Guthrie on September 24, 1906. This time, 20,000 people attended an event to celebrate the farmers defiance of the trust. The gathering ended in a miles-long parade of planters, Confederate veterans, and belles bearing bouquets of dark leaf. Last came a rear guard of 1,000 black sharecroppers.
Despite the associations initial success in enrolling 70 percent of Patch growers, the only way for the association to beat the trust was to get 100 percent loyalty, and the only way to do that was through intimidation. Disavowing any connection to the nightriders, the association nonetheless expressed sympathy for their goals. The atmosphere became hotter, and lodges began conducting armed, military-style drills.
On December 1, 1906, Princeton, Tennessee, 28 miles south of Hopkinsville, woke to the muffled steps of 200 horses, hooves wrapped in burlap. Callers trying to reach the local telephone switchboard heard a gruff male voice say, The nightriders are here. A blast rocked the town and two tobacco warehouses went up in flames, destroying 75 tons of nonassociation leaf.
The next attack would aim higher.
In his newspaper, Meacham, who also served as Hopkinsvilles mayor, had editorialized against the nightriders. Fearing they would come for his town next, he placed the local company of the Kentucky State Guard on alert.
The militiamen had a long wait. The nightriders used feints and disinformation to confuse townspeople and troops, sending squads to infiltrate the town but not attacking. An uneasy standoff persisted until Friday, December 7, 1907, when that double column of masked men sporting white sashes bore down on Hopkinsville. Embedded squads went into action, disarming the militia and the police and politely taking female Home Telephone Company operators into custody. Raiders cut the telegraph lines and occupied the railroad depots, rounding up the few people on the streets.
According to Meacham, the riders torched three tobacco warehouses. Flames lit the skies, and the vigilantes wrecked the Kentuckian office. Raiders shot and wounded a railroad worker. After 30 minutes of mayhem, the riders released their hostages with grave warnings and withdrew. Amoss, bleeding from a minor head wound, led the riders out of town, chased by a posse.
On January 3, nightriders burned two warehouses in Russellville, Kentucky, owned by Luckett-Wake and the American Snuff Company.
As spring 1907 approached, the brigade ruled the Patch, invulnerable to local law enforcement and unlikely to face interference from the federal troops of trust-busting President Theodore Roosevelt, who empathized with farmers and hesitated to intervene in local matters. In the Patch, riders struck in small bands, burning barns, destroying plant beds, horsewhipping farmers, and vanishing.
Nightrider attacks were not always about tobacco prices and maintaining an agrarian way of life. Much of the worst Patch violence was inflicted upon African-Americans, to terrorize them into line with association policy, drive them away so whites could work the land that they had sharecropped or owned, or simply to act on racist hatred.
On March 9, 1908, nightriders mounted a Klan-style raid on Birmingham, Kentucky, a small town that freed slaves had built between the Cumberland and Tennessee rivers; residents who did not flee were slain.
As raids became bloodier, defiance flared. Independent growers took to guarding their fields at night and tried to ambush brigade riders. Assassination attempts sent Amoss underground; he led his forces from hiding.
The brigade fought back. When a Dycusburg, Kentucky, tobacco buyer and businessman taunted the association, riders burned his barns, destroyed his distillery, and brutally whipped him. Lodge members thought to be wavering disappeared, their corpses later found in bogs or wellsor not at all.
Pressure for action rose outside the Patch. The Louisville Courier-Journal denounced the nightriders as the shame of Kentucky and called for law and order.
Newly installed Kentucky Governor Augustus Willson ordered several companies of the State Guard into the Patch to set roadblocks and conduct patrols that constrained the riders. But that also increased the outlaws popularity: Locals saw the militiamen, mostly mountaineers from the states east, as an occupying force. Arrests made no difference. The only people who went to jail were those who fought the riders.
Some survivors fled to Ohio River towns such as Metropolis, Illinois, and Evansville, Indiana. From that safe distance, victims filed civil suits against wealthy landowners thought to lead the vigilantes. Because they were interstate legal actions, these suits became federal cases, with acquittal by friendly jurors no longer a given. Lodges had to raise funds to pay off judgments against their captains.
The war in the Black Patch waned at the end of 1908, though acts of terror continued. Auctions resumed, and leaf prices began to rise. Planters Association membership fell from 70 percent of Black Patch growers to less than 50 percent. The riders faded away, put out of business by eight-cent tobacco and their own excesses.
In 1911, Commonwealth Attorney Denny P. Smith of Cadiz, Kentucky, and a team of local prosecuting attorneys obtained indictments for conspiracy and destruction of property against Amoss and Guy Dunning, a planter accused of being Amosss second in command. The trial, in Hopkinsville, began on March 6. Amosss backers crowded the courtroom for the 10-day trial. So did the raiders victims.
The prosecution had recruited witnesses by offering immunity. Former nightriders testified not only about the Hopkinsville raid but also about brigade rituals and procedures. Yes, Amoss was the general, Dunning his lieutenant. Fingers pointed at maps, exposing secret meeting places. Voices recited the nocturnal oaths.
Amoss presented an unadorned defense. He was a simple country doctor, out delivering a child or binding a wound at those times accusers claimed he had been commanding nightriders.
Not only the Courier-Journal but the Atlanta Constitution and the New York Times sent reporters to Hopkinsville. The courtroom was silent as the jury returned with a verdict after 40 minutes of deliberation: Not guilty on all counts.
Two months later, in May 1911, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the American Tobacco Company an illegal conspiracy under the Sherman Act. Duke had to break up his empirebut into parts he still controlled.
The 20th century was hard on the Patch. Cigarettes made with lighter burley tobacco became popular, especially among men who served in World War I, sapping dark-fire chaw profits. Growers tried repeatedly to hold back leaf to boost prices, but tobacco companiesstill big, still powerfulusually had thousands of hogsheads warehoused to cover any shortfall. The New Deal brought federal subsidies for commodities, including tobacco, that lasted until the 1990s. The demise of subsidies drove out many small growers. Now Patch tobacco is grown on a large scale, with landowners contracting with manufacturers; however, workers process the leaf the old-fashioned way, curing it over a low-burning hardwood fire in sealed barns.
Today, dark-fire tobaccos stronger flavor enhances smokeless products, including chewing and dipping tobacco, moist and dry snuff, and a Swedish product called snus. Cigarette smoking continues to decline, but smokeless tobacco product sales have risen.
For decades, old-timers declined to discuss the nightriders, fearing retribution or remaining loyal to oaths taken under a harvest moon. Now, however, schoolchildren in Christian and other counties in the Patch learn about the nightriders who fought the hated trust. Some communities re-enact the Black Patch Wars in annual events. And at the end of the 2015 season, dark-leaf fire-cured tobacco, grown and processed using methods that would have been familiar to Patch residents of a century ago, brought about $2.70 a pound.
This story was originally published in the September/October 2016 issue of American History magazine. Subscribe here.
Hillary Clinton had courted the alien disclosure community for the past year, after she and John Podesta was reportedly willing to release all top secret files held by the US government on UFO and aliens.
Express reports that the Paradigm research group, a campaign organisation set up by Steve Bassett, who is the only lobbyist on the UFO issue in the US.
Bassett believes there is a "truth" embargo that was put in place by world governments to hide the fact that aliens visited the earth since 1947 roswell UFO incident in New mexico, reported the express.
The report said that PRG had put out a statement on their website saying there are 70 days left to persuade Clinton, Podesta and President Barack Obama to talk to the media about the extra terrestrial issue.
In January, Clinton had reportedly wanted to open up about the issue and what is happening at the area 51 military base in Nevada, where UFO believers guess that there is alien technology hidden away there.
Nature World News reports that she wants to open the files as much as possible and she wants to know what the information shows. Clinton reportedly said in a radio interview that there are enough stories out there that she does'nt think everybody is just making up in their kitchens.
Hillary Clinton had reportedly said she would get to the bottom of this once she became president, and answer all questions on what the US government knows or doesn't know about this subject. She had even told a reporter during her campaign in New Hampshire that she would get to the bottom of it.
In addition, Bassett had reportedly said that under Donald Trump, the chances of the UFO files getting buried is highly likely and is "bleak."
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Kate Middleton and Prince William are on the verge of divorce rumors and it has been intensified when the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge did not attend their friend's wedding.
Kate and William skipped Oliver Hick's wedding and people seem to be clueless for this. But a source claimed that the royal couple just want to avoid the media stir regarding their looming split which according to HNGN, will be announced in 2017.
As mentioned by Celebrity Dirty Laundry, Kate and William were nowhere to be found when their closest friend from Eton tied the knot with Rose Kingscote the last weekend. Their other friends were [present in the event to congratulate the couple on their wedding day.
Oliver Hicks is Prince William's best friend at the Eton and now, it seems like William and Oliver have becomes estranged. The reason, according to the report is that the royal couple's marriage is really in trouble and will be heading for a divorce soon. Before the announcement of the divorce, the couple want to stay away from the media and the press in as much as possible.
Moreover, rumors are rife that William is playing by Kate's rules just to keep peace and to avoid publicizing the divorce drama.
But it can be recalled that this is not the first time Kate Middleton has been a no-show from one of William's friends' weddings. There are times when she chose to stay at home rather than accompany William to maybe a total of five weddings.
Furthermore, Kate Middleton attended many of Prince William's friends' weddings before their royal wedding but when William already asked for her hand, it looks like she never attended any of these weddings. What might have been the reason for the sudden change in Kate's attitude when it comes to dealing with William's friends?
The Kensington Palace did not give any comment on this issue as it is not in the habit of presenting the personal lives of Prince William and Kate Middleton or any member of the royal family.
Kate Middleton and Prince William's divorce rumor is creating media turmoil these times and it is better to wait for any confirmation from any of the people involved.
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Prince Harry will propose to Meghan Markle after receiving Queen Elizabeth's wedding, reports tell. With this, it has been reported too that Kate Middleton is planning to visit the actress in Hollywood as a way to getting to know Markle better.
As reported on HNGN, Queen Elizabeth already granted Prince Harry the grudging blessing to marry his actress girlfriend, Meghan. This already serves a go-signal for Harry to finally ask Markle's hand in marriage.
So it looks like the royal family is now ready to welcome Meghan and because of this Kate is said to be making the first move to introduce her to the royal family. According to Celebrity Dirty Laundry, Kate Middleton is planning to visit Markle in Hollywood.
But because of Kate's plan, another issue had escalated and that is Kate's abandoning Pippa Middleton for the actress which looks like she is choosing Meghan over her own sister. Kate is not even involved in the wedding preparations which could only give the people a hint that she is more interested with Harry's new girlfriend than her own sister's wedding.
The report also added that Kate Middleton was so busy hanging out with Meghan Markle at Prince Harry's Nottingham Cottage home. The actress was even photographed walking down Kensington High Street with grocery bags. Rumors are rife that Meghan prepared a lovely dinner for Prince Harry and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
Meanwhile, a report escalated before that the Hollywood actress is expected to attend a rugby game between South Africa and England. It has been said that Prince Harry prepared for this event as their first official public appearance together.
Until now, the fans and the press are waiting for the couple's first public appearance together. It can be recalled that Harry issued a statement to protect his girlfriend from the harassment of the press.
It seems like all is ready for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's looming engagement with as Kate Middleton prepares herself to welcome her soon-to-be sister-in-law.
@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
After Samsung's ground year battle with its Galaxy Note 7, the Korean tech giant is gearing for a comeback with the Galaxy Note 8 that promises improved features and specs.
The mobile numbers of the upcoming phones Galaxy S8 series and Galaxy Note 8 have leaked online via Twitter.
According to a reliable source, the Samsung Galaxy S8 could be the company's saving grace after what recently happened. Mobile numbers such as SM-G950 and SM-G955 will make up the Galaxy S8 series while the SM-N950 was reserved for the Galaxy Note 8.
The challenging situation that the company faces in the mobile market is no longer a surprise. Instead of considering the troubles they had with the Galaxy Note 7, the company had plans to continue the Galaxy Note line-up and decided to follow this year's Galaxy Note 7 with the new Galaxy Note 8.
Some speculations revealed that there would be a critical move that will alter the face of the said mobile phone line with the use of the Exynos chipset. Samsung Galaxy S8 and Samsung Galaxy Note 8 will carry the chipset mentioned above.
Exynos and Qualcomm are both recognized as remarkable variables today. However, that might also change since the South Korean company is planning to create a new powerful Exynos with the Shannon 359 modem.
The upcoming Galaxy S8, S8 Plus, and Note 8 will be the most awaited mobile phone devices that sparked interest with customers and buyers. The speculations with regards to the release of Galaxy S8 and Galaxy Note 8 come from Evan Blass who is known as a mobile reporter who has a knack for reporting unannounced smartphone news.
In Blass' tweet, the upcoming Galaxy S8 models will ship as SM-G950 and SM-G955
Rumored Specs of Samsung Galaxy S8
Reliable sources revealed that Samsung Galaxy S8 would come out in two sizes 5.1 and 5.5-inch 4K AMOLED display for the flat and curved models. But reports said that Samsung is planning to increase their phone size to whooping 5.7 and 6.2 inches.
The upcoming Galaxy S8 is also speculated to be powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 830 or Samsung Exynos Processor with 4-6GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage with a micro-SD slot for expansion.
@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
AMD has launched their first graphics card that is based on the Polaris architecture. And now fresh news says that AMD is planning to release the Vega 10 and 11 sometime in 2017. The upcoming AMD GPU will be competing with the NVIDIA Pascal GPU GTX 1070 and 1080.
AMD's Vega 10 and 11 be arriving next year as replacement for the current Polaris 10 and 11 says Fudzilla. It has reported that the first graphic card based on this GPU could launch in first half of 2017. Users have known this since AMD's Capsaicin 2016 event that Vega would be arriving in 2017 and would succeed the Polaris 10 and Polaris 11 GPUs.
The Vega architecture had already a crucial design milestone suggesting that the development of the chip is underway and techies are hoping to see it in market as early as Q1 2017.
The features of the Vega 10 GPU include an improved GCN design that will lead to better GPU efficiency as compared to Polaris and it will also be using HBM2 standard. The latest HBM2 standard that will deliver a huge amount of bandwidth a higher VRAM capacity and lower power consumption in comparison to HBM1 and GDDR5, reports WCCFTech.
The AMD Vega 10 graphics card will be supporting up to 4096 stream processors, numerous SKU and several varying VRAM configurations. It can also be compared to the Radeon Pro Duo, 512GB per second x 2, when it comes to the bandwidth. The Vega 10's HBM2 could accommodate up to 32 GB of VRAM.
The Vega 11, which is said to be replacing the current Polaris architecture that AMD is currently basing their GPUs on, will be a midrange graphics chipset with better specifications and performance that will be offered at a very reasonable price.
AMD's goal with Vega 10 and 11 is to replace their Fiji based Fury series with high-performance offerings. It is also rumored that AMD will be showcasing new GPUs that will based on the much advanced Vega 11 platform next year.
@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
F itzrovia is one of the fastest changing parts of London. Tatty old warehouses, mews houses, and Sixties blocks once involved in the rag trade, full of grit and life, have been steadily converting to posh apartment blocks. For this once flea-bitten remnant of Georgian London is just five minutes from Oxford Circus.
In one such mews in 2013, Simon and Geraldine Tate spotted an 18th-century four-storey brick double warehouse with loading bays and an old hoist. It was being used as offices, its roof void had been opened to the fine, stout beams of its pitched roof, and it was fairly sound.
Since Simon and Geraldines children, Alexandra, 28, and Joshua, 27, had just flown the coop, the couple, in their mid-fifties, were looking for a flat in London. They grew up in Market Harborough, Leicestershire, and went to the same school. Soon after schooldays were over they started going out together. Simon, then a printer/publisher, moved to a flat in Putney with his older brother, and Geraldine, whod joined the Civil Service, visited. They married in 1985.
We loved doing up old buildings from the start, says Geraldine. Simon would come back from work and start hanging wallpaper, with me holding the ladder.
Atmospheric: the six-flat development in a Fitzrovia mews (Charles Hosea) / Anna Stathaki
They moved out of London to raise their family, first to a 14th-century mill in Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, which was in the Domesday Book a project if there ever was one. Next, they converted a row of Victorian cottages into a family home. But once alone again, the lure of London proved too strong.
Simon now runs a small development company with his business partner Gareth Wilkinson, converting old buildings to residential. Gareth and I were simultaneously looking for a building to develop, says Simon, so we thought, why not combine the two projects?
Chatting with agents, Simon got wind of the double warehouse, which wasnt yet for sale, contacted the owner, and bought it without it ever going to market. Not for a song those days are over but it had planning permission for six apartments which included digging out the basement. Simons brother Andrew, an architect, started on the drawings.
Sharing an eye for design: Simon and Geraldine Tate in their ultra-modern kitchen / Charles Hosea
They were going to do six flats duplexes in the basement, cleverly using borrowed light with a double-height lightwell at the front, and good, high ceilings, plus three flats to sell off-plan, and their own home at the top, enjoying the exposed rafters.
To bring light into the flats at the back, they negotiated with neighbouring properties to buy a narrow strip of land. Getting 12 people to agree a price is like herding sheep, Simon grins. It took six months, but meant they could put windows and skylights in, making a huge difference in light, especially in the two basement duplexes. Westminster planners have a keen eye, and requested small tweaks to avoid overlooking, but there were no objections, and they got cracking with the build in January last year.
It takes guts to do a job like this. Old buildings can and do throw up surprises, and excavating more than 13 feet down was almost a disaster. The substantial building was carefully acro-propped and all was going well, when one teatime a visiting utility company hit a water main. Water started spewing towards the excavation. Simon and Gareth knew that if it flooded the hole, it could wash out the props and collapse the entire building. Pumps arrived in the nick of time, Gareth stayed overnight, and a crisis was averted. The next day was business as usual.
All the flats are a good size with good light. The basements get light from east and west, with skylights over the kitchen areas. One has a smart glazed dressing room off the master bedroom.
Loading bay doors and side-sliding window sashes were rebuilt in double-glazed timber. Inside, all the flats have bespoke warehouse-style Crittall glazed doors to maximise light. The same smart ceramic tiles are in all the bathrooms, either black or off-white, and the lighting works well. Three flats sold off-plan in April this year, and the couple moved into their flat in June.
Geraldine is the companys interior designer. In the couples home the soaring beams, painted off-white, look terrific, enhanced by a chandelier. The floors are limewashed oak, and the exposed wall on one side has original mellow tints and lime mortar.
The ultra-modern kitchen appears to have just landed in the living space. The sink area is in a double cupboard you can close; the central island with its black granite top and three stylish lights doesnt overpower the room.
Geraldine explains: We dont put anything in a flat that we wouldnt want ourselves. Their coffee table is a 17th-century French door with enormous iron clouts in its top that they hauled back from France.
In the country we cook, but its an urban village here, she adds. We love exploring and have eaten out every night. We still havent used the cooker. Weve been here three months and it still feels like being on holiday.
WHAT IT COST
Double warehouse with planning permission for six flats: 5.4 million
Total development cost: 2.5 million.
The value of the scheme now is estimated at 10 million
Two duplexes are for sale from award-winning TAG Urban Properties
GET THE LOOK
H ollywood stars could come flocking to London after Donald Trump's election, an estate agent claimed as it unveiled a guide to the capital especially for the would-be expats.
During the election campaign, Cher, Barbara Streisand, Samuel L Jackson, Jon Stewart, Miley Cyrus, Lena Dunham, Amy Schumer and Neve Campbell all pledged to leave the US if there was a Trump victory.
Many other entertainers publicly opposed his candidacy and London agent Kay & Co says the capital would make a perfect escape from a Trump regime.
With no language barrier, London and the wider UK is hotly tipped to be a location of choice for those leaving Trumps domain, says Martin Bikhit, director at Kay & Co.
The fall in sterling since the Brexit vote in June makes London property especially attractive - despite prices rising by 13 per cent in sterling terms over the past year, they have fallen by 10 per cent for those lucky enough to be buying with dollars.
There would be no real culture shock and, despite the UKs vote to leave the European Union, those Democrats leaving the US may find living under the remit of new Left-wing Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, more politically palatable.
Comparing prime central areas to their counterparts in New York - where many stars make their homes - the company suggested Sarah Jessica Parker might hypothetically want to swap her adjoining townhouses in the West Village for a large Victorian house in the similarly chilled neighbourhood of Marylebone.
Beyonce and Jay Z's penthouse on the top floor of a warehouse in Tribeca could be exchanged for a converted warehouse scheme in arty Fitzrovia, while Demi Moore - who is selling her triplex overlooking Central Park - could find a perfect spot in a Bayswater penthouse overlooking Hyde Park.
Nick Davies, head of residential development at Stirling Ackroyd, said that for Americans dismayed about Trumps victory it could be worth considering a move to London: The recent fall in the value of the pound against the dollar means there are great deals available in the London market for buyers from across the Atlantic."
In 2018, ROC is again being designed to include new topics, speakers and formats to ensure the event remain fresh, relevant and interesting. Annually, this conference delivers the most compelling and comprehensive revenue management event for t he hotel industry, and convenes more than 100 key stakeholders to address the most critical trends affecting revenue management in hotels today. With powerful educational and networking opportunities, this is the cant-miss conference of the year for learning and engagement.
Brought to you by your non-profit industry association in Asia Pacific.
For more information please contact Jackie Douglas
Gregory T. Bohan, MS, Instructor in the Hosptality & Tourism Management Program at Florida Atlantic University's College of Business moderated a high-profile panel discussion at the HVS CHICOS (Caribbean Hotel Industry Conference & Operations Summit) conference held on November 10 and 11 at the Ritz Carlton in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The Conference was attended by several hundred active financiers, owners, developers and operators of hotels and resorts throughout the Caribbean. Mr. Bohan's panel consisted of the following:
Federico Sanchez-Ortiz, President & Chief Executive Officer of Interlink Group (resort developer)
Jose Suarez, President - International Hospitality Enterprises (resort owner/operator)
Luis D. Muniz Martinez - Deputy Executive Director - Puerto Rico Tourism Company (Puerto Rico Government Official)
Tony Larino, Managing Director - Rockwood Capital (resort investor)
The panel focused on the challenges facing the hotel and resort market in Puerto Rico at present (Zika virus outbreak, economic woes of the Commonweath of Puerto Rico) and the outlook for the historically strong and vibrant hotel and resort market to maintain it's long-term robust performance levels.
The HVS CHICOS conference is conducted and sponsored annually by HVS International and is attended by key executives from all facets of the hospitality and tourism industries in the Caribbean as well as lenders, developers and other active market participants from around the world.
Stella Quintero
Instructor, Hospitality & Tourism Management - Florida Atlantic University
(561) 297-3666
Florida Atlantic University (FAU)
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Treebo hotels, one of the largest players in the budget hospitality space in India, have recently crossed the 180 property mark with Hotelogix as their PMS partner - and are now present in over 40 cities across the country. Treebo is essentially a digital hotel chain - the first and largest budget hotel brand in the country. We use modern technology and a deeply embedded hospitality DNA to offer a great experience to our customers, at affordable prices, said Sidharth Gupta, the companys co-founder.
Having commenced operations barely 18 months ago with four properties in the city of Bangalore, Treebo decided to choose Hotelogix to cater to their property management needs. With the right technology to support their vision, the hospitality company experienced exponential growth over the last several months as they scaled their business to rope in over 180 hotels from almost 40 cities. Since the flexible interface was capable of evolving with the business, Hotelogixs property management system was well equipped to mirror Treebos rapid rise and simplified the on-boarding process for new hotels and Sidharth was delighted with the progress made.
Hotelogix has been our technology partner since the very beginning of our journey, and kept pace with our operations as we scaled quickly over the last several months. Starting from four hotels in one city, today we have over 170 hotels in almost 40 cities and Hotelogix was agile enough to handle our speedy growth, he said.
Sidharth was also impressed with Hotelogixs broad compatibility, especially since the Treebo group dont fall under the cloud companys typical clientele. Despite the fact that we were an unusual client for them considering most of their customers are independent hotels I have to say that thanks to their support; technology adoption and integration at all the new properties we later added was simple! It now takes us 20-24 hours to on-board a new hotel.
Beyond optimizing hotel resources and simplifying on-boarding of new properties, Treebo also recently employed Hotelogixs flexible architecture to develop Bumblebee, their own in-house app. The app improves the companys employability by providing the staff with an intuitive, simple interface that requires barely any training. We realized that a lot of the staff who work at the hotels are not very comfortable with a desktop. Many have grown up in an era where theyve not become accustomed to using desktops, and are a lot more comfortable with their mobile or tablet. Thats why we decided to build the front end of our app for tablets at the back-end, its still Hotelogix. The results have been great! People find it very easy to carry out front office operations like check-ins and check-outs, given that everything is just a few touches away! said Sidharth.
After witnessing rampant growth over the past year, Treebo shows no signs of slowing down. The company intends to touch between 1500-2000 properties over 150 cities by the end of 2018 and Sidharth is enthusiastic about the future. The core objective of Treebo is to be a brand that genuinely offers guests a great experience, and is relevant to a large number of customers all over India. By the end of 2018, we expect to have a total inventory upwards of 50,000 rooms. So yes, we do plan to continue scaling and are quite excited about the future!
Having established at loyal customer base in over 100 countries, Hotelogix have been looking to make an impact in the Indian market as well. Partnering with Treebo proved to be a mutually beneficial collaboration, allowing the software company to penetrate deeper into the local market while also supporting the budget hotel brand in optimizing their business operations.
Treebo is more than an accommodation provider, they are a technology company that emphasize on the all-round development of their service something we strongly believe in as well. Hotelogix is delighted to be a part of Treebos journey its been truly gratifying to witness their swift ascent, said Prabhash, the companys founder.
Click here to take a free trial of Hotelogixs cloud-based PMS.
About Hotelogix
Hotelogix is a unique, cloud-based, end-to-end, hospitality technology solution, built to seamlessly manage hotels, resorts, serviced apartments or multi-location hotel chains, by providing a single window to manage all hotel operations and bookings (online and offline). Hotelogix is currently used by properties in 100+ countries.
Newly Built Hotel Conveniently Located near Abilene Regional Airport
Leo Spriggs, President and CEO of Hospitality Management Corporation (HMC), is pleased to announce the addition of this 112-room Holiday Inn Abilene, TX, to their hotel group. The company continues its ongoing business expansion which is made up of full service, conference center, select service and limited service hotels. HMC is one of the countrys largest third-party privately held hotel management companies, ranked in the top 40 of all third party and owner operated hotel management corporations.
This new build hotel is ideally located five minutes from Abilene Christian University, Hardin-Simmons University, Taylor County Expo Center, Abilene Civic Center and Abilene Regional Airport. The hotel offers an in-house cafe and lounge, Maxx Bar & Grill, an outdoor pool and fitness center. Plus, kids ages 19 and under stay for free when sharing their parents room and kids up to 12 years of age eat free at the on-site restaurant. The Holiday Inn Abilene North College Area also offers Wireless High-Speed Internet, a business center and complimentary shuttle/parking.
We are proud to add yet another IHG Holiday Inn as part of our growing portfolio. Our goal is for the property to become a key destination hotel in the Abilene market while maintaining the quality and excellence of the longstanding Holiday Inn brand, shared Gerald Morris, Vice President of Operations for HMC.
About Hospitality Management Corporation (HMC)
Founded in 1971, HMC is a privately owned independent management company and one of the oldest independent hotel management firms in the U.S. lodging industry. For over four decades, HMC has been a leader in providing hotel management services for institutional and private owners and continues to strive for excellence in hospitality management and hotel development across the United States. Since its inception, the companys headquarters have been located in Dallas, TX.
For more information on Hospitality Management Corporation, please contact Leo Spriggs, President and CEO, at (972) 934-2040 or lspriggs@hospitalitymgt.com.
Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a franchise agreement with M&L Hospitality for a Hyatt Place hotel in London, to be managed by Cycas Hospitality. Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport will mark the second Hyatt Place hotel and the fifth Hyatt-branded hotel in the United Kingdom.
The Hyatt Place brand is rooted in extensive consumer insights indicating that guests seek stylish, comfortable, seamless experiences that accommodate their lifestyles and familiar routines. To embody this, the brand offers casual hospitality and purposeful service in a smartly designed, high-tech and contemporary environment.
We are delighted to collaborate with M&L Hospitality to bring the second Hyatt Place hotel to the U.K., said Peter Norman, senior vice president, acquisitions and development Europe, Africa and Middle East (EAME) and Southwest Asia for Hyatt. The opening of this hotel will mark a significant milestone for Hyatt as the Hyatt Place brand continues to expand worldwide and offer more choices to our guests in key gateway cities.
Expected to open in early 2017 following an extensive renovation of the existing building, Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport will be located at the doorstep of Heathrow Airport, providing guests with a relaxing and uncomplicated place to pause before beginning the next leg of their journey.
M&L Hospitalitys collaboration with Hyatt continues to expand with the opening of Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport in the U.K., said Neil Maxwell, chief executive officer, M&L Hospitality. After extensive upgrades to the hotel, including a full refurbishment of all guest rooms and public areas, we believe the Hyatt Place brand is the right fit for the hotel and Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport will exceed guest expectations while visiting or passing through London.
Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport will offer:
350 spacious guestrooms , including a plush Hyatt Grand Bed, media and work center with a 42" flat-panel HDTV and comfortable Cozy Corner sofa-sleeper
, including a plush Hyatt Grand Bed, media and work center with a 42" flat-panel HDTV and comfortable Cozy Corner sofa-sleeper Gallery Hosts unique to the Hyatt Place brand who are available 24/7
unique to the Hyatt Place brand who are available 24/7 24/7 Gallery Market offering grab n go items, such as snacks and sandwiches
offering grab n go items, such as snacks and sandwiches Coffee to Cocktails Bar featuring specialty coffees and premium beers, as well as wines and cocktails
featuring specialty coffees and premium beers, as well as wines and cocktails Meetings Spaces offering seven flexible, high-tech meeting/function space that can accommodate 2-100 delegates
offering seven flexible, high-tech meeting/function space that can accommodate 2-100 delegates 24-hour StayFit Gym featuring fully stocked exercise equipment
featuring fully stocked exercise equipment Odds & Ends program for forgotten items that guests can buy, borrow or enjoy for free
program for forgotten items that guests can buy, borrow or enjoy for free Free Wi-Fi and public computers with remote printing throughout the hotel
Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport will be managed by Cycas Hospitality. This is a trusted, global brand for Heathrow Airport and we know that guests will enjoy our plans for new, intuitive levels of service which will mark this hotel apart from its competitors on the strip, said John Wagner, director, Cycas Hospitality.
New international research undertaken in 2016 from the LGBT2030 program by specialist consulting firm Out Now reveals continuing expansion in key LGBT markets across the world.
The global value of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender travel market has continued to grow and is now worth over USD$211 billion in LGBT consumer spending per year, reveals research released at WTM London last week.
New international research undertaken in 2016 from the LGBT2030 program by specialist consulting firm Out Now reveals continuing expansion in key LGBT markets across the world.
Ian Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Out Now, presented the findings at the LGBT Masterclass education workshop at World Travel Market, London.
The global LGBT market continues to be one of healthy growth and opportunities for a growing number of travel industry participants, Johnson says. However the LGBT consumer market continues to raise its expectations and there is much work to be done by the industry in the areas of communications improvements, strategy development, training and quality assurance for LGBT travellers. LGBT people expect the same level of welcome and respect as all people do when they travel. The new 2016 valuations of this market show that targeting LGBT customers is not only the right thing to do it is also smart business.
Johnson also announced the launch of a new global training and certification program for travel agents wanting to increase their sales from LGBT tourism. This new program by Out Now partners with leading US-based tourism website TravelMarketReport.com and is able to train and certify more than 20,000 travel agents in North America and in markets across the world.
The agreement between Out Now and Travel Market Report was concluded at World Travel Market London in 2015 so the two companies said they were delighted to launch this new Learn.LGBT training program http://Learn.LGBT for travel agents at WTM London this year.
Anne Marie Moebes, Executive Vice President of Travel Market Report said: Travel Market Report is honored to partner with Out Now on the first ever LGBT training and certification program for travel agents. This important and valuable segment is of great interest to many of our readers who are seeking proper training so that they can serve and earn the trust of LGBT consumers when booking their vacation and travel plans.
The latest data from Out Nows LGBT2030 global research program shows an annual average growth rate for each of the past three years of 2.0% per year.
Two markets Italy and Argentina experienced negative growth in LGBT travel consumer spend during this period.
COUNTRY (USD$bn) 2016 AV ANN. GROWTH RATE USA 60.8 2.5 Brazil 26.4 1.4 Japan 20.4 1.1 Mexico 10.7 2.3 Germany 13.3 1.1 Turkey 6.2 3.4 France 11.2 0.6 UK 11.3 2.5 Italy 9.0 -0.4 Spain 6.8 0.6 Colombia 4.9 4.7 Argentina 4.2 -0.2 Poland 4.4 2.7 Canada 6.9 2.2 Australia 6.5 2.3 Netherlands 2.9 0.4 Israel 1.3 2.8 India (part) 4.1 5.7 211.3 2.0
The LGBT2030 data is sourced from consumer responses from a research panel of over 130,000 participants. The data above reflects responses received in 2016 from respondents in each of the 18 listed countries being the most viable and accessible LGBT markets for the global travel industry. It shows total spend on travel by LGBT people living in each country listed. (India includes only those with internet access.)
Partnership Enhances Hospitality Training and Certification Capabilities
The National Restaurant Association (NRA) and the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) today announced a partnership for the largest foodservice trade association in the world to acquire the training business assets and products of the American Hotel & Lodging Association Educational Institute (AHLEI). Currently owned by AHLA, AHLEI is recognized as the training and certifying body for the hospitality industry.
Given the nature of the hospitality industry and the intrinsic sharing that goes on between the restaurant and lodging sectors, NRA and AHLA saw a unique opportunity to combine resources to produce an even more robust training program that will benefit employees in their career development and improve overall consumer satisfaction. AHLA will retain the certification business, and the NRA will assume day-to-day responsibility for AHLEIs training program business. Under the intended agreement, NRA will purchase the AHLEI portfolio of 180 training products and assets, as well as the Lansing, Michigan building owned by AHLEI.
We are grateful that AHLEI business has found a home with the National Restaurant Association. It's a natural and logical evolution that combines two outstanding teams committed to excellence in the restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality industries, said Dawn Sweeney, president & CEO, National Restaurant Association. By adding the AHLEI assets and business lines to our offerings, we will increase our reach and enhance our credibility as the acknowledged leader in industry training and certification while extending our expertise to the hotel and lodging industry.
AHLAs core mission is to provide employees with the best career opportunities through training and development. Recognizing important partnerships that help us achieve our goals has been and continues to be critical to the industrys success, said Katherine Lugar, president & CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association. This new partnership gives us the opportunity to focus on what we do best, providing the training and resources necessary to offer pathways to upward mobility for our talent and the future generation of hospitality leaders by maintaining the certifications program. We are very excited about this collaboration and are confident that the NRA will continue to grow and enhance training offerings for our industry.
AHLEI will be run as a separate business under the NRAs Training & Certification division. The acquisition is slated to be completed by the end of this year.
While still retaining traces of the ska influences that initially propelled them into the charts in the 80s, Madness have long since evolved into exemplars of a peculiarly English tradition of songwriting, typified by iconic bands like The Kinks and The Beatles.
Their twelfth album Cant Touch Us Now continues the tradition, with wryly-observed sketches borne of lifes hard experience. Recorded under the watchful eyes of long-time collaborator Clive Langer and Liam Watson at Toe Rag Studios, the band turn in 16 tuneful tracks of trademark plinky-plonk piano and rasping saxophone.
As Suggs strolls the streets of Camden, his gimlet-eye takes in the heroes and villains on every corner. Theres the priggish Mr Apples, furtively winging his way down the street up to no good but sanctimoniously critical of anyone else who might be.
'Can We Dance' boy band comes back to the Emerald Isle.
British pop band, The Vamps, have just announced their tour plans for next year. The boys will play at 3Arena Dublin on Monday, May 8 and at the SSE Arena in Belfast on Wednesday, May 10.
The Vamps are made up of vocalist Brad Simpson, guitarist James McVey, bassist Connor Ball, and drummer Tristan Evans. 3Arena hosted the lads last March where they performed a headline concert. In the past, The Vamps have supported artists like Demi Lovato and The Wanted.
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Tickets for the UK & Ireland tour go on sale Saturday, November 19 at 10am.
WASHINGTON - President-elect Donald Trump's pledge to upend U.S. trade policy is claiming its first casualty, as Republican leaders in Congress have closed the door on the Obama administration's hopes for last-minute ratification of an expansive Pacific Rim trade accord before the president leaves office.
GOP lawmakers had publicly expressed skepticism about the future of the 12-nation Trans-Pacific Partnership ahead of a presidential election in which both major candidates opposed the deal. But staff level conversations between the White House and Congress had continued behind the scenes to prepare for a potential vote during the lame-duck congressional session that could begin next week.
If there was any doubt that Donald Trump is planning to follow through on his promise to deport millions of undocumented immigrants, it was put to rest by a 60 Minutes interview that aired Sunday, in which the president-elect affirmed that "probably 2 million, it could be even 3 million" of them would be expelled.
That's just the ones he says have criminal records, and Trump declined to specify what would happen to the rest of the 11 million people here without authorization.
We've talked about how that could destabilize some of the largest sources of undocumented immigrants, namely Mexico. But there's another, more direct impact: The loss to America's own gross domestic product, a broad measure of the economy that estimates the total output of goods and services.
A working paper published Monday by economists with the National Bureau of Economic Research estimates that the undocumented population contributes 3 percent to America's GDP, or $5 trillion over 10 years. Getting rid of a substantial chunk of them could shave as much as a point off the nation's economic growth few other policies would have as much impact.
The effects would be concentrated in the areas with the highest numbers of those immigrants, including Texas, where previous studies have already shown that undocumented immigrants have a positive effect.
But wait, you say: Didn't President Obama deport millions of immigrants himself? Yes he did 2.5 million of them, to be exact, between 2009 and 2015. It is perhaps no coincidence that GDP growth has been lackluster for much of that period.
Now, it's important to note that undocumented immigrants , who account for about 5 percent of the U.S. labor force, contribute less than native-born citizens and legal immigrants, because they tend to have fewer skills and lower wages.
However, the researchers found that if those unauthorized immigrants had the same productivity as legal immigrants who have greater bargaining power and more access to educational and career opportunities their contribution would rise from 3 percent to approximately 3.6 percent of GDP.
The important thing to remember is that if we're hoping to return to robust growth in America and Trump has promised to get up to four or five percent annually it would be smarter to legalize undocumented workers than to kick them out.
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As has been widely noted, 2016 has been a rotten year for fans of popular music. It started with David Bowie's death in January. Happy new year.
The list of departed iconoclasts this year would be formidable, even if it only included Bowie, Prince, Merle Haggard and Leonard Cohen.
Leon Russell, who died over the weekend at 74, was a different sort of cat.
Russell enjoyed a period of stardom as a recording artist. But the weight of what he left behind was more apparitional, befitting a guy whose long bright white locks and chest-length beard gave him the appearance of a ghost.
Russell's contribution to popular music isn't well reflected by iTunes, though he made several albums of enduring music that you can find there. He left traces of his work in so many other places, though, having written or co-written a quartet of modern standards in "Superstar," "A Song for You," "Delta Lady" and "This Masquerade."
Those songs reflected a style that tied back to Russell's Oklahoma roots.
The country music legend Ray Price once told me, "People ask how far I've gone in life," he says. "About 20 miles."
His comment was a joke about being born in Perryville, traveling the world as a superstar, then retiring a few miles away to Mount Pleasant. The statement could also apply to Russell. He was born in Lawton, Okla., and got his start playing around Tulsa, leaving as a teen and traveling to Los Angeles in 1958. There he added piano anonymously to dozens of 45s by influential pop songs working with the great producer Phil Spector. He typically played piano, but also xylophone and guitar on recordings by Jan & Dean, the Ronettes, the Crystals and scores of other acts that recorded for Spector in the '60s. He also co-wrote a few hits: "Everybody Loves a Clown" and "She's Just My Style" for Gary Lewis and the Playboys, which broke into the Top 40 in 1965.
Formidable on a resume, working in Spector's Wrecking Crew was a prelude to Russell's most influential work, as he took Tulsa to the world. Around 1969, Russell joined Delaney & Bonnie, among the greatest of American musical collectives: a rock 'n' roll band immersed in Southern musical traditions: soul, gospel, blues and country.
At that point Russell became a hub for a particular sound that held particular sway across the Atlantic: George Harrison, Joe Cocker and Eric Clapton would try to bottle his lightning.
Russell played a formidable role in crafting a raggedy cosmic gospel in the late '60s and early '70s, a gorgeously ramshackle sort of music that reflected his Oklahoma roots.
That sound provided the skeleton for the tour that yielded Joe Cocker's "Mad Dogs & Englishmen" album, for which Russell was the band leader. Clapton's Derek and the Dominoes album and Harrison's "All Things Must Pass" didn't feature Russell, but still pulled from the same muddy waters.
Russell was 28 when he finally released "Leon Russell," an album that put his wonderfully imperfect voice - a soulful braying - at the forefront, with contributions from fans and friends: Clapton, Harrison, Mick Jagger, Cocker, Steve Winwood, Charlie Watts, Ringo Starr and others.
Russell worked just as comfortably in progressive country music as roots rock. Willie Nelson included two of his songs on "Shotgun Willie" in 1973.
Which is to say Russell was a one-man free-form radio station.
People will find David Bowie albums, but as recordings further phase out, Russell remains the kind of artist best represented by the fine print credits on an old album, be it by the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, B.B. King, the Monkees, the Flying Burrito Brothers or Glen Campbell. The list runs long like his beard. And a list only covers a part of it.
Russell's body of work reflected a distinctive style and sensibility. We're made to believe styles of music are incompatible. His beautiful career suggests otherwise.
This story appeared in the Houston Chronicle on May 6, 1919. The headlines and words are reprinted as they ran then.
The Bishop of Galveston, Catholic clergy from the entire city and from many parts of the state and Louisiana, the mayor of Houston, leading doctors and many other citizens gathered at St. Joseph's Infirmary Tuesday to assist in the dedication of the new $350,000 wing to the hospital and to pay tribute to the labors of the sisters who have been associated in hospital work for 32 years in Houston.
These labors have become glorious in the annals of the city. Recorded in the minute books the city council is a tribute to the work of the sisters in the ravaging smallpox epidemic of 1890 and 1891. The present generation remembers the heroism of two of the sisters, when the old infirmary at Caroline and Franklin burned, who lost their lives in their effort to see that every patient left the building. For 24 years the sisters have been expanding their buildings and increasing their service at their present location on Crawford Street, between Calhoun and Pierce, and the annex which was dedicated Tuesday was the crowning achievement of their work and gives to Houston one of the finest hospitals in the South.
The history of the establishment and its power for good, were traced by the Very Rev. Father James M. Kirwin, vicar general of the diocese and director of St. Mary's School at LaPorte, who made the principal address.
Bishop Byrne Dedicated Annex.
The dedicatory services were conducted by Bishop Byrne in person. Every corridor in the massive structure was visited by the bishop and his procession which included many of the most representative members of the clergy in this section.
Sister Theresa, mother general of the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, who has been closely associated with the life of the hospital, directed by that congregation, was also present.
Acting as a deacon and sub-deacon to the bishop where the Very Rev. Dean E. A. Kelly of Beaumont and the Rev. Father J.C. Creamers of Lake Charles, Louisiana, Rev. Father Morgan J. Crowe, pastor of the Sacred Heart Church and chaplain of the infirmary, was the master of ceremonies.
Among the out of town priests present for the ceremonies were: Rev. Father J.C. Fuller, C.M., of Dallas; Very Rev. Father H.A. Constantineau of San Antonio, Rev. Father George Willheim of Palestine, Rev. Father L.J. Reicher of Galveston, and many others.
Description of Building.
The addition of the hospital runs the length of a city block on Calhoun Avenue and is five stories in height. It contains 116 private rooms, which increases the capacity of the hospital to 300 patients, has four main operating rooms, two emergency operating rooms and three rooms for operations of specialists.
Furnishings for most of the rooms were given by friends of the hospital and nearly every door bears a brass plate naming the donor. One of the rooms is given by the present bishop in honor of the memory of Bishop N.A. Gallagher who died last year.
"You have set the dedication of this magnificent building and consecrated it to the service of the mercy on the ministry of pain upon the feats of St. John and to those who knew the strenuous labor and farseeing vision of Mother St. John it is an act of remembrance and a sign of recognition of the days of old," said Father Kirwin in beginning his address.
"Today we gather round holy memories of pure and virginal and heroic women. We might turn our vision to the dawning of the sixteenth century and dwell upon the mysticism and illumination of the life of Jeanne de Matel, the saintly soul who founded the order of the Incarnate Word. Later the order walked in the land of desolation and exile while the French revolution spent itself in its own excesses. At Limoges the vows were once again pronounced and the Incarnate Word began anew its glorious work, the education of poor children, the care of the sick and the service of the poor. Eventually it found its way to Lyons and in 1852 with the formal consent of the holy see at the request of Monseigneur Odin the first bishop of Texas, it sent its spiritual children across the seas and began its labors in Texas.
"In 1866 Monsignor Dubuis, the second bishop of Galveston, besought Mother Anguelique at Lyons to train subjects who would be able to care for the sick and the orphans of his vast diocese. Their labors began in Galveston and the three young French women bearing the names of Sister Mary Blandine, Sister Mary Joseph and Sister Mary Ange and through the humble cottage at Eighth and Market. From this small beginning in scarcely half a century they have developed materially so that great institutions like unto this bless Beaumont, Lake Charles, Shreveport, Texarkana, Alexandria and Temple, who render allegiance to the mother house of God was done. A branch founded from Galveston, with headquarters at San Antonio and pursuing the same blessed work, has flourished even more abundantly.
Founded in Houston in 1887.
"In 1887, at the request of the Rev. Thomas Hennessey, and with the approval of the late lamented bishop, they opened a small hospital in Houston. At the northwest corner of Caroline and Franklin streets a two-story wooden structure was entered into and here Mother St. Louis and Mother Theresa, now mother general of the congregation and whose presence here today adds interest and sympathy to these ceremonies, started St. Joseph's Infirmary.
"If this were a little community isolated in history and locality it would still be worthy of study and sympathy because wherever pure hearts and loving souls and gentle minds unite them selves for any human and worthy purpose there is interest; there is power, there is charm. But this is not an isolated phenomenon. It's a worldwide fact. Not a few gatherings of concentrated women like vestal virgins here and there, but great armies organized into regimens and battalions and companies with a thousand uniforms and many leaders looking toward one invisible captain and working in the service of man as Christ himself worked.
"Texas owes a debt of gratitude to France for the foundation of this community, but the daughters of Erin form the legions of today. They heard the Macedonian cry of Mother Benedict, the youthful and saintly daughter of Erin, and they came in numbers and they have labored earnestly with generous Celtic souls for this growth and development which we see today."
Mayor Speaks for City.
The bishop spoke briefly, declaring that the nature of the work called for the blessing of the church ritual on the building.
Mayor Amerman asserted that Houston owed a vast debt to the sisters at St. Josephs and that the city appreciates the assistance, which both in the past and in the present have been given it by the hospital.
Dr. S.C. Red spoke in behalf of the staff of physicians and surgeons of the hospital.
The morning services were closed by the "Star Spangled Banner," and were followed by a luncheon given in the new building in honor of the bishop and the visiting clergy.
The hospital will be thrown open to the public for a reception from 4 to 9 o'clock today.
The sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, who own and operate the hospital, number 26 in Houston. There are more than 40 young nurses, graduates of this school who assist in the work for the hospital.
Equipment Inferior to None.
No modern appliance in any hospital in the United States exceeds those adopted for the infirmary, it is said. Everything that human skill has been able to devise for the aid of the sick has been installed in this new building.
There is a new building, a drug store, enormous store rooms, a laboratory, sterilizing plants for mattresses and instruments, lounging rooms for doctors, with big quarters, where they can make their changes for operations.
Every room has connection with a bathroom. There is elevator service in the building. In the basement there are big kitchens for the special preparation of food for the sick, as well as dining rooms for the sisters and nurses. The building also contains its own refrigerating plant. The boiler room and power plant are contained in a separate structure erected to the rear of the hospital.
One of the features of the hospital in the electric signaling system. At the head of every bed, within reach of the patient, is a system of push buttons for signaling the nurses on the floor. Electric lights flash the words to the nurse and the bell ringing system is eliminated.
Sister Michael is in direct charge of the hospital.
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Democrats swept Harris County last Tuesday in nothing short of a rout, claiming every countywide position on the ballot as Hillary Clinton toppled Donald Trump by more than 12 points - a larger margin of victory than George W. Bush enjoyed here in either of his presidential bids.
That edge - and the domino effect it had on local races - exceeded many Democrats' most optimistic projections. It also fueled speculation that the nation's largest swing county soon could be reliably blue.
Yet some on the left still worry that, absent Trump, the party's decentralized coalition could make that transformation a tall order near-term, despite favorable demographic shifts.
"It's not something that's going to be sustained with the party infrastructure we have right now," local Democratic direct mail vendor Ryan Slattery said, recalling the party's trouncing in 2010, two years after President Barack Obama won the county. "You'll always have this ebb and flow."
Former Mayor Annise Parker agreed the party "has underperformed in the past" but was more hopeful.
Harris County 2012 vs. 2016 Results: Interactive Written By John D. Harden
Copyright Houston Chronicle 2016
Caption: Use the map above to see where the GOP and Democrate have strengthened or weakened their grips on Harris County since 2012, based on presidential voting figures.Click the checkbox to between maps.
"In this election cycle, both the Harris County Democratic Party in its official leadership and committed Democrats came together and we all played nicely," Parker said. "The way we swept Harris County down here and knowing the way midterm elections generally go, it might be a pretty good place to be a Democrat in two years and even four years."
Demographic shifts
Democrats' four-decade presidential losing streak in Harris County came to an end eight years ago against the backdrop of rapid political and demographic changes.
The region shifted from plurality white to plurality Hispanic between 2005 and 2015, U.S. Census data show.
Concurrently, the share of county residents who identified as Democrats rose steeply, to 48 percent from 35 percent, according to the Kinder Institute's Houston Area Survey. The percentage of Republicans fell to 30 percent from 37 percent.
Democrats have harnessed that momentum in presidential election years but floundered in the interim, when Republicans capitalized on national political discontent and lower turnout.
After earning nearly 48,000 more straight-ticket votes than Republicans did in 2008, Democrats lost the straight-ticket vote by nearly 50,000 votes in 2010 and 44,000 votes in 2014. They earned nearly 3,000 more straight-ticket votes in 2012 and 70,000 this year.
Several progressive organizations emerged in that window and began to buoy the Democratic Party's efforts. The Texas Organizing Project and Battleground Texas joined groups like the River Oaks Area Democratic Women in getting out the vote, while, in Houston, the New Leaders Council trained progressive candidates and activists.
"Several of my friends and I looked around and were like, 'What is going on? We're not building a back bench. We're not training our candidates well. We have people that are running that have no idea what they're doing or how to run,' " recalled Democratic consultant Lillie Schechter, who helped open the Houston chapter of the New Leaders Council.
Democratic mega-donors also sought to fill a resource gap.
"We really started working very seriously in 2010, and every election cycle we have built on the past election cycles," said trial lawyer Amber Mostyn. "This has been a slow, methodical march toward building the infrastructure, changing voting habits, getting people engaged."
Together with their law firm, the Mostyn family contributed $514,000 this year to TOP's political action committee, campaign finance records show, and $391,000 to Battleground, in addition to hosting phone banks aimed at turning out low-propensity voters.
Separately, Texans for America's Future, a super PAC the Mostyns founded, spent three-quarters of a million dollars urging Harris County women, Hispanics and African-Americans to the polls.
Billionaire George Soros, meanwhile, spent more than $583,000 on behalf ofDemocratic District Attorney-elect Kim Ogg, through his own political action committee, and contributed $250,000 to TOP's PAC, plus other non-monetary services like polling.
The Harris County Democratic Party, however, remained underfunded.
Its executive committee raised just $381,000 this year, according to campaign finance reports, and spent slightly less.
"We have a lot of really great affinity groups, and it's designed in a way where people aren't stepping on each other's toes," party chairman Lane Lewis said.
Slattery, the direct mail vendor, put it another way.
"There are two Harris County Democratic parties," he said. "I think there's the institution, and then I think there are the actual Democrats who constitute the party."
Democratic strategist Grant Martin, who ran Sheriff-elect Ed Gonzalez's campaign, emphasized the importance of organizations such as TOP in increasing voter participation but said the absence of a strong centralized party can make campaigning here challenging.
"The unpredictability and decentralization - it's very difficult. If you're going to run a campaign for a Democratic candidate, you don't know what you're going to be able to expect," said Martin, who also ran mayoral campaigns for Parker and Sylvester Turner. "Because most of the funding is controlled outside the party, it's not like there's even a transparent process to figure out who's going to get support or who's not going to get support. Or even what the consultants are going to do. Am I going to get six pieces of mail out of the party? Or am I only going to get one? Because then I need to send out five more."
GOP brings in cash
Local Republicans have their fractures, too, but the Harris County Republican Party has played a more central role of late, raising $1.4 million this year, or more than three times the haul of their Democratic counterpart. In the past six weeks, it spent $740,000 of that on polling, printing and advertising for its straight-ticket Republican message.
"It's sort of a federation. We provide the infrastructure and the campaign for the county, but other people were also campaigning, and we worked to avoid too much redundancy," Harris County Republican Party chair Paul Simpson said.
Those investments appear to have made a dent in local races, where Republicans' margin of defeat ranged from less than a point in the tax assessor-collector's race to 8 points in the district attorney's race, compared with Trump's 12-point loss. Republican state Rep. Sarah Davis also won re-election by 10 points, even as Clinton defeated Trump by 15 points in her west Houston district.
Simpson projected confidence looking to 2018.
"We won't have the headwinds we had this time at the top of the ticket," he said. "Republican voters will come home."
Democrats acknowledged the role Clinton's coattails and disaffection for Trump played in their local victories.
"It's a lucky break," Martin said. "Trump provided this excitement - this extra reason for people to go out - but I don't think that just Trump would have been enough, or just turnout would have been enough. Now, the big question will be: Can they sustain that?"
Reasons for hope
Local insiders pointed to Harris County's growing minority population and the motivation Trump's presidency could provide.
"Demographics will continue to change in our favor, and our county will continue to become more diverse," said Joe Maddon, treasurer of the Texans for America's Future super PAC. "Unfortunately, President-elect Trump will likely be passing policies that will cause blowback and harm to the Republican brand and serve as a motivator to those same Democratic voters."
Even so, some stressed the need for a stronger party backbone.
"What happens when people start creeping into everybody else's lane?" Slattery asked. "You need an effective leader."
Schechter, for her part, called the local party's meager fundraising "a huge problem."
Lewis defended the Harris County Democratic Party's efforts to increase the number of Democratic mail voters.
"I am proud of the gain that the Democratic Party made, particularly with our senior vote for the past three cycles in a row," the party chairman said. "Our efforts to engage mail ballot votes, which we had historically lost, improved each cycle, and this past year, we won."
Former mayor Parker said the party did not keep voters sufficiently engaged after 2008 but expects that to change - and the party to strengthen - with more Democrats in countywide elected office.
"The Harris County Democratic Party apparatus is fired up and frustrated," Parker said. "Since there's no place to put our energy at the national level, I think it's going to be expressed here."
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The forklift incident still brings Paul Michael to tears.
Years ago the small vehicle collided with a precarious rack of rugs he had assembled for the Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market. He stood to lose an entire display just two days before his company's biggest show of the year.
"It was just like giant dominos falling," he said. "It was a mess of tangled steel, Persian rugs and merchandise."
But his team of workers rallied and saved 60 percent of the display items. That helped him ring up record sales with the kind of frenzied resolve that has transformed the yearly market from a small church bazaar into a sprawling, four-day extravaganza for tens of thousands of Houstonians.
"It kicks off the Christmas season," said Mary Alice Parmet, the market's chairman. "It's just so positive, so fun."
This year's event, which ended Sunday, culminated months of preparation for hundreds of vendors like Michael selling everything from standard stocking stuffers and ties to embroidered cowboy boots and spicy olives.
Now in its 36th year, the fundraiser has grown to cover 540,000 square feet at NRG Center. More than 100,000 shoppers spent nearly $20 million there last year, a quarter of which benefitted the Houston Ballet Foundation.
This year, it took more than 50 18-wheelers to deck the hall with Christmas decorations and gifts, Parmet said. About 280 vendors draped their booths with lights and garland, ready to be mobbed.
On Saturday, shoppers swarmed the entrance way and streamed into the hall when the doors opened at 10 a.m. It was a chance to don antlers, break the budget and down at least one mimosa before noon.
By midmorning, even the novelty Styrofoam cups were going fast. Shoppers flocked to The Write Designs booth to snatch stacks of them stylized like greeting cards - holiday, humor, birthday, wedding.
The small company first trekked to the market from the Dallas area 10 years ago with all the cups it could fit into a Penske box truck. This year, company manager Sara Goldstein scrambled to unload a packed tractor-trailer, expecting to sell more than 13,000 of them.
"They make great gifts," she said.
In a small black-and-white booth, Kris Wittenberg savored a sense of relief as shoppers scrambled for items that read "Be good to people," a simple slogan she decided to emblazon on a shirt after a rude encounter with a stranger in 2008. The idea formed the foundation of her Colorado-based company, which made its first appearance at the market this year.
It had been a challenging few months for Wittenberg, who said she had approached a nervous breakdown in the lead up to her debut and fell asleep with a pizza box on her chest after a long day of setup earlier in the week. But the positivity of her products proved infectious as customers showered her with praise and made it all worth it, she said.
"It changes people's behavior," she said. "I've heard some really amazing stories."
At a more eclectic booth, Amy Labbe helped shoppers assemble jewelry with antique trinkets and oddities, nearly all of which she had fashioned herself. For the past eight years, she has traveled from Uniontown, Kan., to set up at the market, her biggest retail show.
Wearing a hippie's headband over hot pink hair and several pounds of turquoise, she pointed to baubles made from her great-grandmother's cookie cutters, tiny pocket watches and doll heads excavated from German toy factory razed during World War II.
"I've always been gypsy who travels around, selling my stuff," she said.
By midday, tired shoppers dropped their bags on the bright red carpet and sat down to picnic. A group of women in matching headbands and shirts that read "Let's Take an Elfie" readied themselves for another round of browsing.
"We scope it out first, then go back in," said Jessica Turner, who has braved the market each year since 2012.
For Mary Smith, the market has been a tradition since she moved to Houston in 2001. She brought her daughter and granddaughter this year.
"It's a wonderful time for us to be together," said Smith, who unearthed her Christmas shirt and jingle bell earrings for the occasion,
Across the hall, Jason Giangrosso and Chelsea Barnett gazed at Paul Michael's towering display of holiday lights. The roommates from Katy had already put up their Christmas tree, but Giangrosso was tempted to buy a few more strands.
"Why not?" he asked.
Michael, now the market's largest vendor, marveled on how much it has changed since the 1980s, when he first made the trip from his small town in Arkansas to stock a tiny booth with handcrafted jewelry.
Now, he hauls in truckloads of home decorations and furniture he and his team make from antique doors and windows and reclaimed wood. His sprawling setup, packed with shoppers, occupies more than an acre on the convention floor.
"Houston and the Nutcracker Market have formed my career over the years," he said. "Everything we know and do we learned here."
A Houston man is behind bars after he allegedly grabbed women's genitals, repeatedly.
Christopher Mathews, 32, is facing four counts of public lewdness, according to Harris County court records.
On October 24, he grabbed a woman's vagina in a Target, according to court documents.
Five days later, he allegedly did it again, but this time in a Sam's Club. The same day, he grabbed a woman by the butt in a gas station. Finally, on November 3, he allegedly touched a woman's genitals in a grocery store.
Bail was set at $5,000 for all charges.
He's due in court on Tuesday.
Mathews' attorney, John Dixon, declined to comment on the charges against his client.
"I'm not at liberty to discuss the case," he told The Houston Chronicle on Sunday.
A Texas mother who allegedly scammed a California man out of an exotic kitten is facing felony charges after police say she endangered her 14-year-old daughter by letting pet tigers and monkeys - as well as a cougar, fox and skunk - roam freely through the family's Houston home.
The catty chaos kicked off in August, when Trisha Meyer, 34, promised to sell an exotic Savannah kitten to a California man for $3,000, according to documents filed in Harris County court.
More than five days after the cat-loving Californian wired the first $1,500 to a bank account belonging to Meyer's daughter Serena, the would-be kitten owner was disappointed to discover that his meowing package had still not arrived.
HOME SWEET HOME: Dangerous animals find a place in Texas
The Golden State man sent along the other $1,500 - to the same bank account - but after initially telling him the kitten was sick, Meyer eventually stopped answering her phone, documents allege.
About a month later, an officer with the HPD Major Offenders Animal Cruelty Squad showed up with a Texas Game Warden at Meyer's door.
They were greeted by the sight of three tiger cubs and a skunk roaming through the living room, bedroom, kitchen and front door entrance - while Meyer's 14-year-old daughter petted the exotic beasts.
UP CLOSE: Places Texans can go to be near nature
In addition to the trio of cute cubs, Meyer had a large male tiger - and she admitted to officers that, at their ages, the animals could be dangerous.
Meyer also has "several monkeys," including some that she admitted are "vicious" and one that attacks people.
She told police she usually lets her animals - which also include a cougar, fox and skunk - wander freely through the home and only locks up the tigers when she leaves.
UP FOR GRABS: Hunter's paradise for sale for $6.2 million
"It should be noted that the defendant homeschools her children," according to the court documents.
Now, the Houston mother is facing felony charges for theft and endangering a child.
The landlord at the tiger-filled home told the Chronicle that he didn't find out about his tenant's exotic pets until police contacted him - and he booted her out.
"She only stayed there for three weeks before I found out," said property owner Binh Truong.
"I don't know how someone can put that much damage in three weeks."
After she left her Houston home, Meyer ran off to Las Vegas with all her animals, according to a BARC spokeswoman.
Once authorities located her in Las Vegas, she fled to Pahrump in Nye County where she was finally picked up - and her tigers confiscated - on November 7.
As of Sunday, she was still awaiting extradition back to Texas.
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On the surface, the Pichardo family is fighting for an extra 60 minutes.
But for their youngest daughter Miranda, it's less about an hour and more about how she'll be taught and what her horizons will be.
In the context of recent Chronicle reports about how the Texas Education Agency has sought to keep students out of special education across the state, Miranda's parents believe Tomball ISD is hampering her learning and, ultimately, her future by scheduling the majority of her day in her school's special education classroom.
Miranda's beaming brown eyes and gleeful smile make it hard not to grin back at her. She loves the color blue, and Disney's "Frozen" is her favorite of all the princess movies.
She also has Down syndrome.
From 3 months to 3 years old, her parents, Jaime and Karina, enrolled her in early intervention services - a program of physical, occupational and speech therapy provided by a federal law called the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, which mandates an individualized education program for all disabled children in "the least restrictive setting."
By 18 months old, Miranda was attending a private preschool. Her parents then enrolled her in Tomball ISD's special education program, despite initially facing what they felt was resistance from the district. While the Pichardos wanted Miranda in special education part time, the district wanted her there full time.
The district eventually agreed after the family filed a complaint to the TEA.
That scuffle would be the first in a series of disputes between the Pichardos and Tomball ISD over the best method to educate Miranda.
Their battle, according to dozens of disability rights attorneys and parents of children with intellectual disabilities, is emblematic of the difficulties faced by many families with children who have Down syndrome, who envision a culture of higher standards and greater public understanding of the condition.
Staci Stanfield, a spokesperson for Tomball ISD, declined specific comment on Miranda's education plan, beyond saying the district "believes in educating students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment."
"Each student has access to an appropriate learning environment and an opportunity for education with non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate at his or her campus," she said.
On one recent Sunday afternoon, the Pichardos' quaint, two-story home in The Woodlands was more frenzied than usual.
A two-man television news crew interviewed Karina and the family's attorneys in the living room as they prepared for their most recent hearing to determine whether the district violated federal law in giving Miranda an extra hour in the special education classroom instead of the "regular" classroom.
Miranda was sitting on the sofa next to another guest, Megan Bomgaars, part of the cast of the A&E documentary series, "Born This Way."
Bomgaars was on her high school cheerleading squad before she went to college. She runs an accessory and apparel business. She also has Down syndrome.
'Outdated stereotypes'
For the Pichardos, Bomgaars represents special education done right, where students with disabilities are actively made to feel a part of the school community.
"Life is not self-contained; it's a lived experience. Sometimes it's going to be hard, sometimes it's not going to be comfortable, but you can't shield them from that. It's the experience of being in school, and (Miranda) needs to experience that," Karina said.
When Miranda was in preschool in the 2014-2015 school year, the district proposed an academic schedule in which she would spend more time in the special education classroom than in regular classes for the following year when she was to begin kindergarten.
The Pichardos filed a complaint, although a hearing officer eventually sided in favor of the school district.
"The standard response from Tomball ISD to anything we ask, whether we're entitled to it or not, is 'No.' You have to push," said Jaime Pichardo, who works in industrial automation. "Otherwise they won't talk to you about it; they won't offer it. This has been the dynamic for the last three years almost."
During kindergarten in 2015-2016, at Miranda's annual review in December 2015, the district proposed further reducing Miranda's time in the regular classroom by removing her from 30 minutes of both social studies and science per day in first grade - before she could even be reviewed based on her full kindergarten year.
This loss of 60 minutes in regular class time was adopted despite reports of progress from Tomball ISD. The schedule would have allowed Miranda to be included with her peers in the regular classroom only for just over two hours each day.
"It's just outdated stereotypes about how people with disabilities should be educated," said Dustin Rynders, an attorney with Disability Rights Texas. "(Tomball ISD) has a pattern of lowering expectations on someone who has Down syndrome and assuming they need to spend most of their day in life skills class, but that's just not supported by research."
In May 2016, toward the end of kindergarten, the family had an independent evaluation performed for Miranda's speech. The evaluation emphasized speech therapy and recommended that Miranda be an active participant in her regular classes.
The evaluation also found that Miranda's communication device - a clunky purple and white contraption that helps Miranda articulate basic words when she's struggling - was cumbersome and distracting.
Miranda must carry the device, which is about a third of her height, around her neck throughout the school day.
Despite Miranda's proficiency with an iPad, the district neither allows Miranda to use her iPad from home nor has it purchased one for her to use as federal law authorizes, her parents said.
After the Pichardos' latest hearing concluded last week, another hearing officer will determine by Dec. 2 whether the district violated federal law in prescribing Miranda the extra hour in the special education classroom during the current school year.
Among other things, the Pichardos argued that Tomball ISD should include Miranda in the regular first-grade classroom at Creekside Forest Elementary for all of her core academic subjects. They also want to replace the communication device with a less-stigmatizing iPad.
Tomball ISD argues that Miranda must first master the clunkier device in order to use an iPad in class.
"It's like she needs to learn to make fire before using a stove, that's how crazy it's been," Karina Pichardo said.
A new generation
Backed by what they believe is ample research and expert opinion showing that inclusion in regular classes is the best way to teach children with Down syndrome, the Pichardos believe the district should be moving aggressively in that direction.
The lives of the 250,000 Americans with Down syndrome are very different from a generation ago. They live more than twice as long on average, while some like Bomgaars are in college. They get married and about a fifth of adults with Down syndrome have a job.
They've also become actors, artists and even politicians.
"It should be the starting point," Brian Skotko, co-director of the Down Syndrome Program at Massachusetts General Hospital, said of the general education classroom, as early as possible.
But for many parents across the Houston area, seeking more appropriate accommodations for their Down syndrome children is often highly challenging.
Melanie Duncan, who came to Miranda's hearing with several other mothers from Houston-area school districts in a show solidarity, had to fight nearby Cypress-Fairbanks ISD for her third-grade son, Landon, to spend more time in a regular classroom.
Unlike the Pichardos', a hearing officer ruled in her favor.
In Katy ISD, one mother was given the accommodations she requested for her fifth-grade son while another Katy mother had to win a similar ruling.
In Clear Creek ISD, one mother with two children who have intellectual disabilities said the district provides adequate resources for her kids, but she suspects children whose parents are less involved aren't so lucky.
And despite all the progress, raising a child with Down syndrome can be, for many, a daunting task.
About 74 percent of births are terminated after a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome, according to Skotko.
Similar to segregation
The Pichardos brought in a special education expert at the University of Colorado, Christi Kasa, to speak at Miranda's hearing after a day's observation at Creekside Forest Elementary School.
Kasa determined that with the appropriate accommodations in place, Miranda would thrive in the regular classroom and benefit from higher expectations. It also would enable her to pick up on social cues from typically developing classmates instead of mimicking the behavior of children in a less-structured special education environment.
Still, to Jaime Pichardo, Miranda's school experience has always shared eerie similarities to segregation.
There was a period of time when the district tried to force Miranda to enter school through a side door that opened to the special education classroom.
This further upset the Pichardos, who had hoped to limit Miranda's difference instead of highlighting it before she walks in the door.
Although the school eventually made an accommodation, Jaime said this is still an issue he must occasionally monitor.
"It's huge," Jaime said. "It's like fighting the cook in the restaurant who you know is going to prepare your meal."
If the new hearing officer rules in favor of Tomball ISD again, the family intends to keep fighting.
"Seeing Megan is a light at the end of the tunnel," Jaime said of the family's recent guest from Colorado. "This is the result of inclusion; someone who is in college, who has a job, who has her own opinion. We want that independence for Miranda."
After Sandra Bland died in a Waller County jail cell last year when she was unable to post the $500 needed for bail, some state lawmakers urged county leaders to review indigent defense practices and consider starting a public defender's office.
But 16 months later, leaders of this rural county are not rushing to establish an office to provide legal counsel to those who can't afford it.
Commissioners on Nov. 2 cleared the way for the county to apply again for a grant from the Texas Indigent Defense Commission for the county's programs, which they've been getting since 2003 and which last year amounted to $49,439, but they made no mention of starting a public defender office. The county relies on private attorneys to serve those without the financial means to get their own lawyer.
"We're nowhere close to being large enough to justify that type of expense," said Waller County Judge Trey Duhon. He noted by phone Wednesday that an audit of the rural county's practices "came out very positive for the county." Area judges subsequently met to review the results and developed some changes, he said.
A chance for reform
Bland, a 28-year-old African-American woman, was found hanged in her jail cell in July, 2015, a death that was ruled a suicide. Her death came three days after she was pulled over for an alleged traffic violation, arrested and jailed following a heated exchange with a Department of Public Safety trooper. That officer was subsequently fired and is facing a perjury charge, which he denies.
On Nov. 1, a federal judge formally dismissed the wrongful death lawsuit filed by Bland's family. Their attorneys had disclosed a $1.9 million settlement with the Texas Department of Public Safety, former DPS trooper Brian Encinia and Waller County.
Two months after Bland's death, state Sen. Rodney Ellis and state Reps. Senfronia Thompson and Ron Reynolds wrote county commissioners asking them to review Waller County's indigent defense practices, as well as to "assess whether alternative approaches, such as a public defender office, would be feasible and cost-effective for Waller County."
In a December letter, Waller County Commissioner Jeron Barnett also called for a review of the indigent defense program.
The state commission's executive director traveled to Waller County in February to discuss opportunities, including the possibility for discretionary funding to get a public defender office off the ground.
Ellis spoke then, too, urging commissioners to take the opportunity as a chance for reform following Bland's death.
Several county commissioners previously had voiced skepticism about the idea of establishing a public defender office, citing the costs associated with it and the small size of the county - a sentiment that seems to have remained unchanged even as more information has been released.
The commission conducted its review of the county's program and finalized the results in late August. Its findings included that magistrate judges were not handling requests for attorneys in the same way and that not all magistrates were providing defendants with "reasonable assistance" in completing the necessary paperwork at their hearings.
'Lone Ranger' support
Earlier, the commission also had drawn up a feasibility report on whether a public defender office should be launched, explaining that doing so could "create an institutional resource valuable to the bench, the bar, county officials and the community."
The county's written response to the report, dated Oct. 28, outlined the policy tweaks. It reiterated a belief that "Waller County is and has been largely in compliance with not only the letter of the law, but the spirit of the laws and regulations dealing with indigent defense."
Barnett, who is up for re-election in November, said he may be a "lone ranger" on the commission pushing for a public defender office.
"When it comes down to our indigent defense, I feel we need to take a stronger approach," Barnett said in a phone interview. "I just feel that there's more we can do."
Decisions on the routine grant funding resolved by commissioners Wednesday will be made in December, said Edwin Colfax, grant program manager for the Texas Indigent Defense Commission. Requests for applications for the discretionary funding will be released in January. The first component of the application would be due in March and the final one is due in May.
So far, the commission has heard no indication that Waller County plans to pursue such a grant.
As Colfax said, the Austin-based commission aimed simply for commissioners to be aware and informed about the option.
Said Colfax, "It's a local decision whether they want to proceed."
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WASHINGTON - President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday chose Reince Priebus, the chairman of the Republican National Committee and a loyal campaign adviser, to be his White House chief of staff, turning to a Washington insider whose friendship with House Speaker Paul Ryan could help secure early legislative victories.
In selecting Priebus, Trump passed over Stephen Bannon, the right-wing media provocateur. But he named Bannon his senior counselor and chief West Wing strategist, signaling an embrace of the fringe ideology long advanced by Bannon and a continuing disdain for his party's establishment.
The dual appointments - with Bannon given top billing in the official announcement - instantly created rival centers of power in the Trump White House.
Bannon's selection demonstrated the power in Trump's rise of grass-roots activists who have long traded in the conspiracy theories and sometimes racist rhetoric of Breitbart News, the website that Bannon ran for much of the last decade.
The site has accused President Barack Obama of "importing more hating Muslims"; compared Planned Parenthood's work to the Holocaust; called Bill Kristol, the conservative commentator, a "renegade Jew"; and advised female victims of online harassment to "just log off" and stop "screwing up the internet for men," illustrating that point with a picture of a crying child.
The grass-roots activists may be angered by the selection of Priebus as chief of staff, viewing him as a deal-maker who will be too eager to push the new president toward compromise on issues like taxes, immigration, trade, health care and the environment.
In a statement Sunday afternoon, the transition team emphasized that the two men would work "as equal partners to transform the federal government."
That simultaneous announcement is consistent with Trump's management style in his businesses and in his campaign: creating rival power structures beneath him and encouraging them to battle it out.
It is also a reflection of who has the ear of the president-elect: his children, especially Ivanka Trump and her husband, Jared Kushner. Both of them had argued that the chief of staff job should not be held by someone too controversial, according to several people familiar with the decision-making inside the transition effort. Kushner is likely to wield great influence over the new president regardless of whether he holds a formal title. Kushner, who has no experience in politics or government, often gets the final word in advising Trump.
But while Trump apparently feels comfortable with Priebus, the people with knowledge of his weekend decision said that Bannon was still the adviser who was better able to talk forcefully to the president-elect during difficult moments.
The transition team appeared eager to appease concerns among Trump's most fervent supporters that choosing Priebus meant that the president-elect had already caved to the Washington "swamp" he had promised to drain. The team also wanted to mollify Bannon, and to that end, the official statement mentioned Bannon first.
"We had a very successful partnership on the campaign, one that led to victory," Bannon said in the statement. "We will have that same partnership in working to help President-elect Trump achieve his agenda."
Priebus said he looked forward to working with Bannon and Trump "to create an economy that works for everyone, secure our borders, repeal and replace Obamacare and destroy radical Islamic terrorism."
Priebus is expected to have multiple deputies, including Katie Walsh, the chief of staff of the Republican National Committee, who is close to Priebus and helped ensure a tight working relationship between the party's operational infrastructure and Trump's campaign.
A Lebanon woman working as a home healthcare nurse faces a second-degree involuntary manslaughter charge following the death of a baby in July.
According to a probable cause statement submitted to the county prosecutor by an investigating Texas County Sheriffs Department deputy, Devin J. Wiekhorst, 40, of 17475 Tulsa Drive in Lebanon, allegedly administered an excessive dose of morphine to the child (less than 1 year of age), causing its death in July 26 at Plato. The report said Wiekhorst is LPN with Phoenix Home Health Care, and had been assigned to care for the child at a Highway 17 residence along with an RN with Hospice Compassus.
The officer said the RN provided training to Wiekhorst and the childs grandmother with regard to dosage amounts, and what was reportedly a correct dose was administered while all three were present. But when the RN left the room to do paperwork, Wiekhorst allegedly told the grandmother the dose had been too small and she needed to make up the difference.
Believing Wiekhorst knew what she was talking about, the grandmother agreed and more morphine was given to the child who died while Wiekhorst was at lunch. Wiekhorst reportedly called the RN for dosage clarification and was advised the total given to the child was equal to an adult dose.
During interviews with authorities, Wiekhorst at first denied giving the second dose, but later admitted to it. Charges were filed Sept. 13, and Wiekhorst was arrested and booked into the Texas County Jail last Thursday (Nov. 10). She is held on $250,000 bond.
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latest initiative from a major Swedish union is making waves all over the world after it was revealed the organisation has established a dedicated mansplaining hotline so women can report the infuriating workplace behaviour.Coined in 2008, the term refers to situations when men automatically assume a woman is less informed about a subject and ultimately explain things in a patronising or condescending way.Now, Unionen which represents more than 600,000 private sector workers is encouraging female members to report the behaviour in an attempt to raise awareness.The purpose of the campaign is not to point fingers or to blame all men, Unionen said in a Facebook post. The campaign is intended to make us all, men and women, aware of this phenomenon and hopefully to start a change together.News of the hotline which will be manned by feminist politicians, comedians and scientists has been met with mixed reactions as some welcome the move and others condemn it."How would women react if you used words like 'old biddy chat' or 'female whining'? Equality can't be won using negative invective, but should be built using mutual respect and partnership, Daniel Bergman of Sundsvall wrote on their Facebook page. But maybe I'm the only one who thinks so.Another user, Linda Landgren, defended the campaign."Good initiative, she said online. Judging by the comments, it seems quite a lot of men feel this is aimed at them, so it shows how much this kind of work is needed."Speaking to The Local, Unionen responded to the varied reactions and said it was pleased to have generated so much conversation around the subject.Everyone wins when we expose suppression techniques and talk about them," said spokesperson Gabriel Wernstedt."It's naturally unfortunate if some people are offended by our mansplaining hotline. At the same time these are questions that affect many people and that people want to discuss.We can also note that many people are positive about us raising the question of mansplaining. The attention has exceeded our expectations and shows that this is an important question.
lth and safety regulator WorkSafe is urging employers to be vigilant after todays early-morning earthquake may have left many workplaces damaged or unstable.Safety of you and your work colleagues must be the number one priority if youre heading to work in the affected areas, said chief executive Gordon MacDonald.There have been reports of damage to buildings, so please exercise caution when entering buildings as the last thing any of us want is an injury because a few simple checks havent been undertaken.The 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck in the upper South Island just after midnight, triggering hundreds of aftershocks across the country.Wellington CBD along with many other workplaces remain closed this morning as checks are carried out and MacDonald said employers should seek expert opinion if they think their premises may have been damaged.Make a careful external visual inspection of your work premises. If you see cracks or have the slightest doubt about the integrity of the building, get an expert report before you go in, he said.If you decide its safe to enter be extra vigilant as the contents of the building may have shifted; material may have fallen; there could be hazards you would not normally expect like spilled liquids or damaged racking for stored goods.MacDonald also warned that certain employers would have to take added precautions, depending on the nature of their business.If you know there are chemicals or other dangerous material in your workplace, make sure youre protected with good safety gear and be very careful when you first go in, he said.Stop look assess and dont take any risks. There are professionals who can help you make your workplace safe
JOHANNESBURG Today, McDonalds South Africa announced plans to switch to 100 percent cage-free eggs in its supply chain by 2025a move that will spare thousands of animals each year from life inside cramped cages.
This policy follows dialogue with Humane Society International, one of the worlds largest animal protection organizations, which has been working with McDonalds on this and other animal welfare issues around the world.
Tozie Zokufa, Africa program manager for Humane Society International, stated: We applaud McDonalds South Africa for its leadership in corporate social responsibility and animal welfare. McDonalds decision to switch to exclusively cage-free eggs improves the landscape for farm animals across South Africa, and makes it clear that the future of egg production is cage-free. We look forward to working with more companies on similar policies.
Become a Farm Animal Defender.
McDonalds SA Chief Executive Officer, Greg Solomon, stated: Today, we are pleased to announce, ahead of the 12 month timeframe we set for ourselves that we will fully transition to cage-free eggs in all our restaurants across South Africa by 2025. Starting in 2017, we will begin to phase in cage-free eggs at all of our restaurants. Our egg supplier has committed to providing us with quality, safe and consistent supply at more than 10% per annum until all the eggs we purchase are cage-free by 2025. The move is testament to McDonalds commitment towards sustainability and food innovations.
In South Africa, most egg-laying hens are confined in wire battery cages, where each hen has about the space of a single sheet of paper to spend her whole life. Battery cages are among the cruelest of factory-farming practices. Undercover investigations have documented the suffering caused by the extreme overcrowding in these wire contraptions, where birds are confined to cages so small and tight, they cannot even spread their wings.
The cage-free egg movement has quickly spread throughout the world and a growing number of food companies are adopting cage-free egg purchasing policies. HSI has worked with the food industry leaders around the world on their recent cage-free egg pledges, including Sodexo and Compass Group two of the worlds largest food service providers, and Arcos Dorados, the largest McDonalds operator in Latin America.
Media contact:
Leozette Roode, lroode@hsi.org; t +27(0)713601104
In addition to the impact of new supply on Singapore's performance, concerns over the Zika virus continued to hinder demand in the market's corporate segment. Several events, such as ITB Asia 2016 (19-21 October), were not enough to soften Singapores worst year-over-year decline in RevPAR for the month of October since 2009.
STRs preliminary October 2016 data for Singapore indicates performance declines driven primarily by supply growth.
Based on daily data from October, Singapore reported the following in year-over-year comparisons:
an increase in supply (+4.0%) and a decrease in demand (-3.4%);
a 7.2% decrease in occupancy to 79.8%;
a 6.4% decrease in average daily rate (ADR) to SGD278.62; and
a 13.1% decrease in revenue per available room (RevPAR) to SGD222.40.
In addition to the impact of new supply on Singapore's performance, concerns over the Zika virus continued to hinder demand in the market's corporate segment. Several events, such as ITB Asia 2016 (19-21 October), were not enough to soften Singapores worst year-over-year decline in RevPAR for the month of October since 2009.
STR will release actual October 2016 results later this month. The August edition of STRs Market Forecast is now available.
STR provides clients from multiple market sectors with premium, global data benchmarking, analytics and marketplace insights. Founded in 1985, STR maintains a presence in 10 countries around the world with a corporate North American headquarters in Hendersonville, Tennessee, and an international headquarters in London, England. For more information, please visit str.com.
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GREELY, Ont. Conservative leadership candidate Chris Alexander says fellow contender Kellie Leitch is importing anti-immigrant American rhetoric for crass political purposes.
Alexander, Canadas former immigration minister, said he doesnt believe Canada will see the same type of political polarization that has happened in the U.S. because the country doesnt have the same large issues with illegal immigrants or undocumented residents.
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That is the single greatest cause of poisonous politics that we see south of our border or in Europe, he told reporters Sunday after an leadership debate organized by a local riding association in Greely, south of Ottawa.
Canadas immigration system works, the former Ontario MP and career diplomat declared. It brings huge numbers of people based on their skillset and generously resettles refugees who need the help, Alexander said.
I dont think it is right to import, for crass political purposes, the genuine anger that Americans are feeling and to say we have the same situation here. We do not.
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Leitch has made screening every single newcomer and visitor to Canada for so-called anti-Canadian values the cornerstone of her leadership bid for the Conservative party.
After Donald Trumps U.S. presidential victory on Wednesday, Leitch congratulated the Republican and noted how she wanted to accomplish the same feat in Canada by throwing out the elites.
A day later at the first Conservative leadership debate, Leitch said she and Trump shared common ideas namely the screening of immigrants.
On Sunday, Leitch was on the defensive for her support of Trump, telling CTVs Question Period program: I am not a racist.
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Leitch was expected to participate in Sundays event with the other leadership contenders, but she left after the luncheon and missed the debate portion of the riding association's fundraiser due to an apparent break-in attempt at her home in Creemore, Ont.
In a statement Sunday night, Leitch says she was notified by a volunteer in her riding association that someone was purporting to know her address and was offering it up online to anyone who she says was "interested in doing me harm.''
Leitch says her home alarm sounded early Saturday and as she left the house to wait for police she noticed the garage lights were on, but they had been turned off by the time officers arrived, and no intruder was found.
She said the entry closest to the garage was found to have been the trigger for the alarm and the officers speculated that someone trying to gain entry could have set the alarm off.
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In a free and democratic society, Alexander said Leitch has every right to put forward views that reflect some Canadians opinion but he finds them regrettable.
They are views that come from an American presidential election from one of the candidates who said unbelievable things, unspeakable things, abhorrent things during that election, he said of Trump. The president-elect called, at one point, for a total and complete ban on Muslims entering the United States.
I regret that it has become a central issue of this campaign for one candidate. It is not an issue for the rest of us.
I dont want to see Canadian politics go in that direction. We have a different legacy here, a different reality here, said Alexander. We are proud of diversity. We are proud of strong immigration. Our immigration system is seen as a model to the world.
Canadas settlement policies, and successful integration, retention and respect for newcomers is a unique system that Canadians should be vigilant in protecting, he added.
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During the last election campaign, Alexander and Leitch stood shoulder-to-shoulder in announcing that a re-elected Tory government would introduce a barbaric practices tip line for the RCMP. The proposal was widely criticized.
Alexander also came under fire for his perceived lack of empathy towards the Syrian migration crisis and the Tory governments unwillingness to drastically increase refugee numbers. He was defeated in the 2015 election.
On Sunday, Alexander said he would never be part of a government and certainly never lead a government that placed newcomers and visitors to Canada under a cloud of suspicion just because they are not one of us.
I dont think any of us [in government] would have tolerated one of our colleagues saying: These people need to be screened more, he said, referring to Leitch, who also served as a cabinet minister for labour.
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When was the last time you saw a major security incident in Canada terrorism or otherwise caused by a visitor? he asked. It wasnt the case in Ottawa ...So why go there, why make these accusations? he said referring to the 2014 shootings on Parliament Hill.
In that case, Michael Zehaf-Bibeau fatally shot Cpl. Nathan Cirillo at the National War Memorial before storming the nearby Centre Block parliament building. That same month in Saint-Jean-Sur-Richelieu, Que., Martin Couture Rouleau deliberately ran his vehicle into two uniformed officers, killing Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent.
Home-grown terrorists
Both attackers were born in Quebec, and considered lone-wolf terrorists. Both were killed by police.
The Canadian screening system that relies on interviews and background checks works well, Alexander said, pointing out that further screening will cost more money, add delays, and hurt the Canadian economy.
I regret that it has become a central issue of this campaign for one candidate. It is not an issue for the rest of us.
With files from The Canadian Press
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Donald Trump Win Sparks Protests Nationwide See Gallery
It's the '#YearOfTheAss,' guys! Well, at least according to Ariel Winter...
The brunette beauty is taking a well-deserved vacation in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and from what we've been seeing on Instagram and Snapchat, the 18-year-old actress is living her best life and flaunting it all in an itty-bitty bikini.
Caboooo it's lit A video posted by ARIEL WINTER (@arielwinter) on Nov 12, 2016 at 8:02pm PST
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"Caboooo it's lit," the "Modern Family" star captioned an Instagram video that shows her standing over the ocean and doing a little shimmy.
Having a little fun in the sun with a few pals, including actor Levi Meaden, Winter dedicated her social media vacay posts to pools, mirror selfies and of course, her derriere.
Window pics with bae #yearoftheass #thASSright #punnyasfuck A photo posted by ARIEL WINTER (@arielwinter) on Nov 13, 2016 at 6:22pm PST
"Window pics with bae #yearoftheass #thASSright #punnyasfuck," she wrote alongside the photo of her and friend, Jess Berg.
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You see those hashtags, right? Ariel officially declares 2016 the "year of the ass." And we find this statement not even a little bit surprising coming from Winter, considering her butt has its own makeup artist, which is totally Hollywood and we love it.
And if that butt shot wasn't enough, the "Dog Years" actress shared a separate video of her almost bare backside twerking on Snapchat.
In the words of Ariel herself, "It's a butt. Everyone has a butt."
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Kelvin Murray via Getty Images Modern Office Shoot
Kaizen. Its a Japanese business philosophy that calls for continual development and constant improvement. Its a mindset that companies like Cisco employ throughout their whole business, from the CEO down. And its a way of thinking that can revolutionize the way you do work.
What is kaizen?
Kai means change and Zen means good so the goal behind the business philosophy is to focus on a number of changes that eventually add up to overall improvements within the company structure. The philosophy says that change is continuous and incremental even small refinements compound and are transformative over time.
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Kaizen doesnt offer a step-by-step guide to improve productivity; instead it calls for holistic implementation. It should dictate the way you think and take on challenges. For any positive change to take place, everyone has to believe in the process and long-term goals.
History of kaizen
Throughout the years, numerous companies have used the kaizen principles to improve productivity and efficiency. This includes some of the worlds largest automotive and aerospace companies.
Kaizen first entered the scene after World War II, when Toyota implemented the philosophy in its production sector. But it wasnt until the 1950s that kaizen became a household name thanks to Masaaki Imai. He was a Japanese organizational theorist and management consultant who wrote the book "Kaizen: The Secret To Japans Competitive Success." After penning the novel, he opened the Kaizen Institute to help Western companies implement the philosophy. The organization still runs today.
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How do we implement kaizen?
Kaizen calls for all employees to make continuous, small improvements to their daily processes and productivity. One principle of kaizen is abolishing old and traditional ways of thinking, so use the philosophy to streamline and prioritize your to-do lists. Listing out the things you do and finding new, more efficient ways to do them can make room for innovation. In your day-to-day, use memory aids and folders marked urgent to streamline and improve your personal workflow.
Cisco embraces this philosophy holistically. Digital transformation is disrupting business in every industry by breaking down barriers between people, businesses, and things. By removing these barriers, companies are able to create new products and services and find more efficient ways of doing business.
And that is ultimately what kaizen is the practice and culture of continued improvement that sets the groundwork for better quality, productivity, safety, and a better, more efficient workplace for everyone.
Canadians may be very worried about Donald Trump leading the U.S., but there is one silver lining for Canada that arose from the American election: a possible boost to our nascent marijuana industry.
Take, for instance, Canopy Growth Corp., Canada's largest medical marijuana manufacturer. The company has seen shares rise by a third since the U.S. vote.
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Its shares jumped 15 per cent on Monday alone, after the company announced its revenue had more than tripled in a year.
As of that afternoon, Canopy Growth was valued at $1.3 billion, making it the first billion-dollar marijuana company in Canada.
"Strong growth in registered patients drove our revenues higher during the second quarter," CEO Bruce Linton said in a statement. "We continue to believe that variety, quality and consistency of supply are key to driving market share in the legal cannabis market."
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The companys quarterly earnings report showed revenue had jumped to $8.5 million in the second quarter of its fiscal year, up 245 per cent from the same period a year earlier. The company produced more than a metric tonne of pot in the quarter, all of which was distributed to more than 24,000 medical marijuana customers across the country.
But Canopys stock price jump began last week, after voters in California, Massachusetts, Nevada, and Maine approved ballot initiatives legalizing the drug for personal use.
Shares of Canopy Growth and many other marijuana companies spiked on the news last week. With California's vote alone, the number of people in the U.S. who live in a place where marijuana is legal more than tripled. There's also a potential weed consumer market of 5 million people in the state.
Investors are betting these new markets will benefit Canadians, too.
I think youll see Canadian companies jump at the opportunity to expand their operations and brands into the United States, Brendan Kennedy, owner of B.C. marijuana producer Tilray, told The Canadian Press.
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There are huge opportunities for Canadian companies, because Canada has the most robust and tightly regulated medical cannabis framework in the world, he said.
Both governments and companies around the world are looking to Canada to provide leadership and expertise in this industry.
At the very least, it would be easier for licensed Canadian pot growers to get funding from the U.S., said Khurram Malik, a cannabis market analyst at Jacob Capital Management.
Most of the money raised up here is from the U.S., said Malik. This legitimizes the concept of cannabis around the world, which is only a positive for the market up here.
The federal Liberal government campaigned on a promise to legalize marijuana across Canada for recreational use. It plans to introduce legislation on the issue in the spring of 2017.
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With a file from The Canadian Press
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OTTAWA The Liberal government is preparing to sell off Canadas public infrastructure to billion-dollar investment funds and is not being honest with Canadians about it, New Democrats charged Monday.
NDP finance critic Guy Caron sounded the alarm as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with representatives from central banks, sovereign wealth funds, pension funds and insurers in Toronto to court investments for infrastructure projects.
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NDP finance critic Guy Caron speaks on Parliament Hill on Jan. 26, 2015. (Photo: Sean Kilpatrick/Canadian Press)
Caron told reporters these private investors who control pools of capital worth as much as $21 trillion are not joining an infrastructure bank out of the goodness of their hearts.
The Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec said it wants seven to nine per cent return on investments, Caron said. How do you get that type of return on waste water plants or roads or other types of infrastructure? ...
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There is not a thousand ways to do it. It is through tolls and it is through user fees.
Even if the infrastructure itself isnt sold off, the NDP critic said, the user fees generated from the public will go to private companies and line investors pockets.
Trudeau didn't propose this during campaign: Caron
Never during the campaign did the Liberals and Justin Trudeau tell Canadians about this plan, he said.
What the Grits promised during the 2015 election were two $10 billion deficits aimed at expanding the economy through public investments in transit, social infrastructure and green projects. And now, instead of this," Caron said, "we have much larger deficits and an ongoing privatization plan for our infrastructure."
The Liberals announced earlier this month they want to create an infrastructure bank with $35 billion of public money $15 billion of which are funds already committed to transit and housing projects. The federal government hopes to attract $165 billion in private capital, Caron said, giving private companies control over the infrastructure bank with an 80 per cent stake.
Please tell me when this was discussed by Justin Trudeau during the campaign, Caron repeated. The Liberals are going much further than the Conservatives ever dared to go, he later said.
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Propositions are "win-win," PM says
After his meetings wrapped up, Trudeau told reporters what he was selling were win-win propositions that would support Canadians jobs and large-scale infrastructure projects.
There is a tremendous amount of global capital that is looking for stable long-term investments, he said, and Canada, with its economic, fiscal, political, social stability, is an extremely attractive place to do business.
Trudeau touted Canada as an island of stability, a country with the fastest growth and the lowest business cost of the G7 countries, and the safest banking system in the world.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addresses the media following a summit meeting in Toronto with investors and members of the Canadian government on Monday. (Photo: Chris Young/Canadian Press)
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But he tiptoed when asked if the private infrastructure investments would mean new tolls and user fees.
There are many different models to look at and many potentials, he said, as he pointed to Vancouvers Canada Line [transit system]. That was a mix of private and public investment that has given Vancouverites a tremendous amount of ease of access from the airport to the downtown core and places in between.
We know that partnerships with the private sector can be done right, and we look forward to working with these significant global investors, he added.
Concerns about conflicts of interest
Caron also used his press conference Monday to accuse the Grits of placing themselves in a perceived conflict of interest. Finance Minister Bill Morneaus advisory council on economic growth includes, as chair, Dominic Barton, of McKinsey & Company, whose bread and butter in the last five years was to promote the leverage of private capital with public funds for infrastructure. Michael Sabia of the Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec and Mark Wiseman, the senior managing director of BlackRock the worlds largest asset investment firm with more than $5 trillion under management are also on the council.
All three stand to gain from this scheme. Their groups will make hundreds of millions, maybe even billions out of the return of this scheme and they personally, obviously, stand to gain a lot as well, in terms of bonuses, Caron said.
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The Trudeau Liberals were supposed to be for the middle class, they were supposed to be for the little guy. They are now showing their true colours those of the party of wealthy private investors.
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Islamic extremists are cheering Donald Trump's victory in the U.S. presidential election.
The president-elects anti-Muslim rhetoric will help them recruit more people to their cause, high-ranking members of both ISIS and the Taliban told Reuters.
"This guy is a complete maniac, Abu Omar Khorasani, a top ISIS commander in Afghanistan, told the outlet.
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His utter hate towards Muslims will make our job much easier because we can recruit thousands.
One al Qaeda-linked ideologue tweeted Trump's win has revealed the true depth of Americans' racism and Islamophobia, according to NOW, which translated his tweets.
"He reveals what his predecessors used to conceal. So his victory further exposes America and its appendages, tweeted Abu Muhammad al-Maqdisi.
ISIS sympathizers celebrated Trumps win online, saying it would mean only disaster for the U.S. and the world.
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Hell rule with undisputed control and this will lead to open conflicts with many people, said one message in an ISIS forum discovered by Vocativ.
Trump will put the final nail in the coffin of America, said a user on an ISIS channel.
But the terrorist group wasn't exactly advocating that U.S. Muslims vote for Trump. In an article titled "The Murtadd Vote" released before the election, it warned that democracy was antithetical to Islam.
At one point during the election campaign, Trump called for a total ban on Muslims entering the United States.
He has also advocated torture.
Trump will put the final nail in the coffin of America."
Some jihadists hope Trump's term will be marked by new foreign military interventions, with one pro-al Qaeda Twitter account predicting the president-elect would make the U.S Enemy No. 1 again in the Middle East, referring to the legacy of President George W. Bush, according to The Washington Post.
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But the Afghan Taliban wants Trump to take a more isolationist stance on overseas conflicts, calling Wednesday for him to withdraw American troops from Afghanistan.
"Our message is that the Americans should draft a policy not to take away the independence and sovereignty of other nations," the group said in a statement obtained by Reuters.
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Ivana Trump says now that her ex-husband Donald Trump is president-elect of the U.S., he should appoint her as ambassador to the Czech Republic.
I will suggest that I be ambassador for the Czech Republic, Ivana told The New York Post on Friday.
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Ivana, 67, was born in the state when it was still called Czechoslovakia.
She added that she speaks Czech and is well known in her home country.
If she's appointed, Ivana wouldn't be the only person close to Trump to be given some position in his government.
A quarter of Trump's transition team are members of his family, The Independent reported.
Donald Trump talks with his former wife Ivana Trump during the U.S. Open in 1997. (Photo: Reuters)
Trump's children had previously said that they would not be involved in his government. Donald Trump Jr. told Good Morning America in September that he and his siblings would form a "blind trust" to manage his father's business holdings if he was elected.
The overlap between Trump's government and business ventures create what some experts are calling an unprecedented possibility for conflicts of interest.
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Removing himself or his family from the perception of self or family interest may prove difficult, elections enforcement official Ken Gross told the Washington Post.
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A white Florida high school teacher is on leave after he evoked Donald Trump in an offensive comment to black students.
John Sousa, who works at Wesley Chapel High School, was told to leave the school and stay home after a parent complained, according to WFLA.
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That parent, Donnie Jones Jr., said his daughter told him she was walking down the hallway with two other friends when Sousa walked up and asked what they were doing.
"Don't make me call Donald Trump to get you sent back to Africa, the teacher then said, according to Jones' daughter.
Jones Jr. was furious when he heard the story.
I'm beyond pissed right now. I damn near have tears in my eyes, he wrote on Facebook Wednesday.
Politics are Politics but once you say something to my child then it's f**king on!
In a follow-up post the next day, the father said he called Sousa, who admitted to the comment and apologized.
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But the teacher said he didn't mean to be racist. He said hed been talking to a larger group in the hallway at the time, a detail Jones Jr.s daughter disputes.
Pasco investigates Wesley Chapel High teacher for Trump-related racial comment https://t.co/kGG0EzIflrpic.twitter.com/LmE9eTyFeX Tampa Bay Times (@TB_Times) November 10, 2016
"My daughter said he pointed at the 3 black students and said 'Donald's going to send you back to Africa,'" Jones Jr. wrote on Facebook.
The dad received a lot of support on Facebook. His initial post has been shared nearly 6,000 times.
On Friday, the teacher met with the director of employee relations to talk about the incident, according to WESH 2 News.
The school district is very troubled if one of our employees did say what he is accused of saying, school district spokesperson Linda Cobbe told the broadcaster.
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We can't stand for that. We expect civility," she said.
I believe he's sorry but he's only sorry because he's in trouble." Parent Donnie Jones Jr.
As of Friday, no action had been taken against the teacher, Cobbe told WFLA. That's because there were discrepancies between what the teacher and students said had happened.
But Jones is waiting to see what the school does, saying he doesn't think Sousa understands the gravity of his comment.
I believe he's sorry but he's only sorry because he's in trouble."
Donald Trump has never called for black Americans to be "sent back to Africa," but his win appears to have fuelled many incidents of racial harassment and intimidation in the United States.
There has been a spike in reported hate crimes since last week's election, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center.
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It seems as if Meghan Markle has had her eye on Prince Harry for a while!
Hello! magazine recently unearthed an old interview they conducted with the "Suits" actress, who, when asked if she prefers Prince William or his younger brother, revealed she would choose the ginger-haired prince.
In a quick round of questioning, which took place last October, the 35-year-old American was asked: "Prince William or Prince Harry?"
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"I don't know," Markle replied, laughing. The reporter responded, "Harry?" to which Markle said, "Harry? Sure."
Just months later, the actress would actually be dating the fifth-in-line to the throne, making headlines around the world when news broke of their relationship on Oct. 30.
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"Some of this has been very public the smear on the front page of a national newspaper; the racial undertones of comment pieces; and the outright sexism and racism of social media trolls and web article comments," the statement read, regarding the treatment of Markle.
"Prince Harry is worried about Ms. Markles safety and is deeply disappointed that he has not been able to protect her."
In 2013, the Toronto-based actress gave an interview to Esquire U.K. magazine, in which she said that she had a fondness for British men.
"I love how British guys dress for the cold," she said. "I'm from L.A. so I'm used to seeing people in sunglasses and flip-flops. There's something so romantic about a man in a scarf and a knitted hat."
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She also said she had a thing for a British accent. "I love how much men call you 'darling' here," she said, according to the magazine. "I'm a sucker for a compliment."
Last week, Markle was spotted doing a grocery run near Kensington Palace, where Prince Harry lives. She was then photographed approaching the palace, prompting the media to assume she was going to rendezvous with the prince.
Unfortunately, the couple weren't spotted together.
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Canada Revenue Agency has confirmed it is investigating dozens of Canadians for possible tax evasion linked to the Panama Papers leak earlier this year.
The agency said it combed through 11.5 million documents from that leak, and identified 2,600 with a Canadian link. From those, it opened investigations into 85 Canadians, and has launched 60 audits.
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Search warrants were executed by the agency and in some instances criminal investigations for tax evasion are ongoing, a CRA spokesperson said in an email to HuffPost Canada.
The vast majority of Canadians pay their fair share of taxes, but some wealthy Canadians buy their way out of paying what they owe. This has to change in order to ensure a tax system that is more responsive and fair for all Canadians, CRA said.
The Panama Papers are a trove of 11.5 million financial records from Mossack Fonseca, a Panamanian law firm which has been called one of the worlds largest creators of shell companies.
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The documents were leaked earlier this year to the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), which then worked with news organizations, including some in Canada, to dig through the data.
The Toronto Star, one of the news organizations involved in the ICIJ effort, previously reported that 350 Canadian names had been identified in the documents.
Canada is not the only place where the Panama Papers have led to criminal investigations. Twenty-two people are facing tax evasion investigations in the U.K., where three arrests linked to the Panama Papers have already taken place.
CRA would not provide further details on the Canadian investigations because it does not comment on a criminal investigation that it may or may not be undertaking.
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The Royal Bank of Canada featured prominently in the Panama Papers, showing the bank had been a frequent user of Mossack Fonsecas services. The papers showed the bank had set up at least 370 offshore companies for Canadian clients since the 1970s.
Offshore companies arent illegal in and of themselves, but they are frequently used to evade taxes.
RBC responded by handing over 40 years worth of bank records to CRA.
RBC "works within the legal and regulatory framework of every country in which we operate. ... Tax evasion is illegal, and we have established controls, policies and procedures in place to detect and prevent it occurring through RBC, the company told media at the time of the leak.
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Shocked parents in Toronto were faced with racist posters while dropping their children off at elementary school on Monday, one day after the U.S. president-elect made an alt-right leader his top advisor.
The posters, which appeared on poles near Parkside Elementary School, began with: "Hey, White Person." They rail against political correctness, immigration, diversity and "being told you're 'racist' for celebrating your heritage," and included links to white supremacist and alt-right websites.
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"I saw the first one on a post outside the public pool on the same street and stopped for a moment to tear it down," said Ian Daffern, the father of a four-year-old student at the school. "My son didn't want to stop, and asked me what I was doing. And I said 'I don't like bullies.'"
Daffern soon came across a second poster, which he left up so he could report it to his son's kindergarten teacher. She said she would tell the principal, so staff could go around the grounds and remove all of them.
"As I was walking back home, a small crowd five or six people stood around it. I would say [the response was] shock and anger," he said.
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Other residents saw the posters and contacted Ward 31 Coun. Janet Davis, who called the posters "abhorrent."
"The American election and Trump's hate speech has given legitimacy to these types of organizations. It's very frightening," she told the East York Mirror. "It's very troublesome that the Trump election has unleashed this kind of hate."
Toronto police told the website that they're looking into it and contacting the hate crimes unit after receiving public complaints.
"Do not underestimate the force of American culture. These ideas push in."
Daffern shared a photo of the poster on Facebook with his own warning: "Hey Canadians. It's here okay? This poster was up on the grounds of my 4 year old son's school this morning in East York. Be vigilant. Do not underestimate the force of American culture. These ideas push in."
"I guess I'm surprised that it takes seeing it there for me to be as shocked by it. But we had Your Ward News circulating regularly here," Daffern said, referring to a notorious neo-Nazi publication.
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On Sunday, Donald Trump named Steve Bannon, an exec whose news site is known for having white nationalist views and who has himself been accused of anti-Semitism as his chief strategist and senior counsellor.
This is not the first example of Trump-fuelled racism not only spilling over the border but also landing at elementary schools. The day before the U.S. election, parents in the Ottawa suburb of Kanata discovered a swastika and KKK spray-painted on a school.
Swastika sprayed on Ottawa elementary school. Don't say Trump's racism won't affect us in Canada. https://t.co/oTcwsZUKfn ArielTroster (@ArielTroster) November 13, 2016
Daffern, who is a writer and producer, said that parents need to be vigilant.
"We can keep our eyes open just for this subtle thing creeping into our communities. We can talk to each other when we see it," he said. "We can just demonstrate love to our kids by showing how in any neighbourhood we build bonds no matter what our background. It's funny how being mad about something can bring you together, but I guess that cuts both ways."
He added: "It's a race thing, yeah. But it's more a power thing, isn't it?
"F*ck these guys. We don't have to stand for this here."
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Conservatives are pushing the Liberal government to abandon plans for a national carbon tax and forcefully advocate for the approval of the Keystone XL pipeline now that Americans have elected Donald Trump.
In the first question period since Trumps stunning victory last week, interim Tory Leader Rona Ambrose painted the U.S. president-elect as both a competitor and ally when it comes to Canadian energy.
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She also said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau needed to accept a new economic reality in North America.
A carbon tax in this country, Ambrose said, will give the U.S. a significant advantage over Canadian businesses doing global work. Trudeau is setting Canadians up for failure, she charged.
Fisheries Minister Dominic LeBlanc responded on behalf of his boss, who was away from the House of Commons and courting investors in Toronto. LeBlanc said that putting a price on pollution will stimulate growth and create jobs.
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The prime minister said Canada has no closer friend, partner and ally than the United States and we look forward to working with the new administration on global energy challenges and the environment, he said.
Ambrose wants PM's public support for Keystone
Ambrose then shifted to Keystone a pipeline Trudeau supports. She asked if the prime minister was moving as fast as possible to push the project ahead.
LeBlanc said it is up to TransCanada, the company behind Keystone, to again apply for a U.S. presidential permit. In 2015, U.S. President Barack Obama rejected the pipeline, which would take Alberta crude to the American Gulf Coast.
Tories applauded when LeBlanc noted the Canadian portion of the project was approved in 2010 under the last government.
Ambrose accused Trudeau of ignoring unemployed energy workers and suggested an opportunity has presented itself with Trump preparing to take office in January. Republicans will also control both the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate.
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Will the prime minister move quickly to lend his public support to this pipeline or will he continue to leave these unemployed energy workers wondering about their jobs? she asked.
Liberals aren't changing course
LeBlanc said Liberals are creating a system that will get resources to market in a sustainable way and earn the confidence of Canadians. The United States has its own process, he said, and it will be up to TransCanada to work with the incoming administration.
And we look forward to working with that administration as well, he said.
Trudeau has made it clear that he does not see the election of Trump as cause to pivot away from his governments plans to fight climate change. He unveiled last month that Liberals will impose a national floor price on carbon emissions in 2018, rising to $50 per tonne by 2022.
Trump has pledged to pull the U.S. from the Paris climate accord, effectively killing the agreement, and has called global warming a hoax.
"President-elect Trump would love a carbon tax for Canada. Why wouldn't he?" Tory MP Pierre Poilievre
President-elect Trump would love a carbon tax for Canada, Tory MP Pierre Poilievre said later in the House. Why wouldnt he? Higher energy costs in this country will mean more factories and jobs will move to his country.
Poilievre accused Liberals of seeking to tax away good blue collar jobs.
Jonathan Wilkinson, parliamentary secretary to the environment minister, reiterated that Liberals look forward to working with Trump. He said Liberals are committed to the Paris agreement and will work with the provinces and territories on a pan-Canadian strategy to fight climate change.
The Liberal carbon tax will create good-paying, blue collar, American jobs, Poilievre said. U.S. competitors will have a yuge advantage.
Trump win threatens Paris deal: NDP MP
But NDP MP Sheila Malcolmson expressed concerns about what recent changes will mean for those gathering this week at the United Nations climate change conference in Marrakech, Morocco.
The election of Donald Trump threatens to dismantle the entire Paris agreement, she said.
Malcolmson wanted to know what Liberals will do to protect the Paris deal and when they will strengthen the greenhouse gas emission targets adopted from the previous Conservative government.
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Wilkinson said Environment Minister Catherine McKenna is in Morroco, ready to work with international counterparts to implement the agreement reached in France last year.
Canada is a strong supporter of that agreement, he said.
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The title of Miss Golden Globe 2017 goes to Sylvester Stallones three stunning daughters: Sophia, 20, Sistine, 18, and Scarlet, 14.
The Globes made the announcement on Instagram on Friday, sharing a sweet photo of the 70-year-old actor with his girls.
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Breaking! This year the 2017 Miss Golden Globe will be @sophiastallone, @sistinestallone, & @scarlet_stallone, the daughters of @officialslystallone! Photo by @inezandvinoodh. A photo posted by Golden Globes (@goldenglobes) on Nov 10, 2016 at 6:05pm PST
The honour of Miss or Mr. Golden Globe is usually given to a child of a Hollywood icon and their job is to assist with the awards ceremony. Last year, Jamie Foxxs daughter Corinne was given the honour. Now 2017 will mark the first year a trio has been chosen to share the title.
Over the weekend, Stallones eldest daughters, Sophia and Sistine, took to Instagram to share their excitement.
FINALLY I can announce that my sisters and I are the official Miss Golden Globes 2017! Sophia captioned a photo with her siblings.
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A photo posted by SOPHIA STALLONE (@sophiastallone) on Nov 10, 2016 at 10:16pm PST
Posting a similar image, Sistine wrote, So EXCITED to announce that we are Miss Golden Globes 2017! Such an unbelievable experience, still cannot believe this is happening!
Stallone is also proud of his girls. Describing her dads excitement, Sophia told People magazine he was running around the house, dancing. The dogs were chasing him.
The Stallone girls are no strangers to the limelight as they often attend red carpet events with their famous dad. Last year, for instance, they accompanied Stallone to the Golden Globes, where he won best supporting actor for reprising his role as Rocky Balboa in Creed.
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Stallone and his daughters at the 73rd Annual Golden Globe Awards on January 10, 2016 in Beverly Hills, California.
But while the girls are clearly shining stars, they admit they dont see themselves following in their dads footsteps anytime soon.
I don't think any of us will be actresses, Sophia, who is a student at the University of Southern California, told Us Weekly. [Sistine] will be the model, and I could see myself being in the movies behind the scenes, because I love watching my dad work he's the best and he lives in my house, so why not learn from him?
As for the youngest Stallone, 14-year-old Scarlet, she agreed saying: Im only in junior high, so I dont think I even know!
Stallone had his three daughters with his wife, model Jennifer Flavin. The 70-year-old actor also had two sons, Sage and Seargeoh, with ex Sasha Czack.
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The 2017 Golden Globes will air on Sunday, January 8.
Flip through the slideshow below to see other celeb kids who were chosen as Miss or Mr. Golden Globe in the past.
Leave it to The Beaverton.
The satire website and television newcomer recently released a farcical video ribbing Alberta premier Rachel Notley.
They take aim at those people who like to blame Notley for every one of Alberta's woes but the tone is almost a little too accurate.
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"Since taking power in 2015 NDP premier Rachel Notley has, according to conservative uncles everywhere, been a disaster for Alberta," the video begins.
It then goes on to blame Notley for setting the Fort McMurray wildfires "in order to decimate the oil industry" which, unbelievably, is something that people actually accused her of at the time.
Several "Albertans" list off other reasons why they believe Notley should "resign in disgrace," including:
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- Making it illegal for citizens to dig transcontinental pipelines,
- Drinking all the milk in the house,
- Breaking into people's trash cans and spreading garbage all over their lawns,
- Convincing a dog to eat some of its own poop.
Ridiculous? Absolutely. But not an inaccurate depiction of some people's tendency to #BlameNotley for pretty much everything.
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Hillary Clinton may have lost last week's U.S. presidential election, but her fight for women's rights is continuing.
Of those not giving up in the face of Donald Trump's win? Rebecca Correa Funk and Claire Schlemme, the founders of The Outrage, a feminist marketplace with a goal to "smash limits, stereotypes, and barriers."
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The empowering duo plans to fund the fight for equality by donating 100 per cent of the profits from their Pantsuit Nation line to Planned Parenthood in the wake of Tuesday's shocking election results.
We are devastated but we have work to do. Start here: 100% profit donated to Planned Parenthood in HRC's name www.the-outrage.com A photo posted by the-outrage (@theoutrageonline) on Nov 9, 2016 at 8:27am PST
"We are devastated but we have work to do. Start here: 100% profit donated to Planned Parenthood in HRC's name," the brand wrote on Instagram.
Before the company's incredible tribute to Clinton, they donated 15 per cent of the profits from every purchase in their "Femininitees" collection to the National Organization for Women.
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50% profits donated to Planned Parenthood in honor of HRC A photo posted by the-outrage (@theoutrageonline) on Nov 9, 2016 at 6:43pm PST
"To have such a qualified, intelligent and inspiring woman come so close and lose like this is absolutely devastating," Funk told Marie Claire. "But it's also a signal that we have a lot of work to do. Hillary has championed women's rights for decades, and donating to Planned Parenthood is the best way we can think of to carry her work forward. So far, we've surpassed $15K in sales for our 'Pantsuit Nation' collection."
And since the election, The Outrage has designed some new pieces, including a T-shirt inspired by Kate McKinnon's "Saturday Night Live" tribute to Hillary.
"I'm not giving up and neither should you" #KateMcKinnon as #Hillary on SNL. #fightthegoodfight #lovewins #dontagonizeorganize A photo posted by the-outrage (@theoutrageonline) on Nov 13, 2016 at 10:54am PST
So if you're looking for a way to keep fighting Clinton's good fight, might we suggest some shopping? Because picking up everything from this line is the ultimate win, win.
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If nothing else, Before the Flood allows viewers a glimpse at Leo DiCaprio's apparently tortured thought process. The results aren't pretty, but they tell you a lot.
In nearly two hours of preaching all manner of rehashed conspiracies, his documentary ultimately provides few facts. You won't hear any mention of Canada's world leadership as a top producer of wind, hydro and solar power. You also won't find any mention of First Nations prospering to the tune of $10 billion over the last 15 years through First Nations-owned companies in the oil sands region.
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At the end of the day, the film is about a famous, globetrotting real-action figure, haunted by end-of-the-world nightmares.
You certainly won't learn by watching the film that, since 1990, Canadian oil sands producers have reduced per-barrel GHG emissions by an average of 30 per cent, and that some achieved reductions as high as half. You'll miss the fact the oil sands contribute only 0.15 per cent of global GHG emissions, and that just 1.6 per cent of all of emissions come from Canada.
And you'll not be told -- even during an oil sands flyover segment -- that mining is just one aspect of the Alberta industry, and a diminishing aspect at that, accounting for less than one per cent of the oil sands land area over the last fifty years of development. Information on the growing, and far less invasive in situ oil extraction techniques never makes it into the film. Nor does Alberta's climate leadership regarding plans for an emissions cap and a price on carbon. Leo doesn't mention that Canada is a global leader in energy regulation and environmental progress, either.
But like the Hieronymus Bosch poster above Leo's crib throughout his childhood, placed there by his comic-book-loving father, Before the Flood is chock full of scary images of doom and destruction. The film concludes with the usual talking points about political will, shutting down "the tar sands" and putting up windmills and solar panels in developing regions where too many inhabitants can't even afford a light bulb.
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At the end of the day, the film is about a famous, globetrotting real-action figure, haunted by end-of-the-world nightmares, seeking redemption from the United Nations, the Vatican, the Democrats and Martin Scorsese, executive producer.
Before the Flood is DiCaprio's latest high-priced attempt at throwing a giant scare into anybody who ever felt a tinge of guilt about eating certain foods, drinking certain beverages, and using fossil fuels for telecommunications or transportation, heating or health care, improved literacy or just plain all-round modern living.
His message: You should all feel very, very bad.
Leonardo Super Yacht Lifestyle See Gallery
Leo even includes a couple of references to folks just like him -- those members of the ultra-elite who fly around the planet in private jets and party on Arab-owned super-yachts while they turn a blind eye to human rights atrocities fuelled by foreign oil supplies.
"We have to practice what we preach! Absolutely!" he claims about halfway through the film. One of the more interesting segments, it pits the uber-articulate Sunita Narain, spokeswoman for an Indian NGO against an arrogant, know-it-all DiCaprio. In short, she gives him a piece of her mind for thinking India should rely on expensive, intermittent renewable electricity when the US simply won't.
"The fact is we have to put the issues of lifestyle and (U.S.) consumption at the centre of the discussion," Narain admonishes. "Let's put our money where our mouth is." To give credit where it's due, the practical, no-nonsense Narain would turn any ill-prepared, climate-defending real action hero into an inarticulate mess.
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But for an Oscar-winner, Leo sounds remarkably defensive through the discussion. You get the sense that, somewhere in the back of his mind, our famous party animal is re-thinking that time he and Jonah Hill flew via chartered 747 from Australia to California just so they could celebrate New Years Eve twice.
Everything is broken, it's all very terrifying and it's largely Alberta's fault.
For regular readers in need of a laugh, there's a recap of Chinook-gate, in which Leo and Revenant director Alejandro Inarritu mistake a typical Alberta Chinook for catastrophic global warming. "We were hit with record temperatures that completely melted our set," the clueless actor deadpans.
Even after it's been completely discredited, great slapstick comedy never gets old.
But there's other information that shows Leo's bias toward catastrophe. Self-described "science nerd" Michael Mann, who takes up nearly five full minutes to complain about the politics of "front groups," never mentions once that his own controversial work was the subject of years of controversy among scientists.
But bias can be expected from this bunch. A quick survey of the film's backers listed in the final credits features many of the usual suspects, from Rajendra Pachauri who, after an unsuccessful run at the UN, is facing sexual harassment charges against a 33-year-old assistant, to wealthy oil-sands hater Tom Steyer to anti-pipeline zealot Mark Ruffalo to our own political antagonist Naomi Klein.
For Leo DiCaprio, the jet-setting superstar from dirty-oil-producing LA, everything is broken, it's all very terrifying and it's largely Alberta's fault.
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So what did you expect? Real information? Then you'll want to give this film a miss.
Cody Battershill is a Calgary realtor and founder / spokesperson for CanadaAction.ca, a volunteer organization that supports Canadian energy development and the environmental, social and economic benefits that come with it.
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By Nicola Toffelmire & Annalise Mathers
Global health transcends boundaries. But it also transcends domains and disciplines of practice. The field of global health is drawing an increasingly diverse group of Canadian young people who have a wide range of interdisciplinary experience, backgrounds, and interests. Youth are highly attuned to the critical need for forming authentic and inclusive partnerships around the world to promote resilient and responsive health systems.
Canada is positioned to play a strategic role as a leader on the international development stage, and this means that integrating youth leaders into global discourses, particularly relating to health, is vital. Canadian youth not only have the knowledge, tools, and ambition to improve health inequities from the local to global level, but we believe that young people can be key contributors to health diplomacy.
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The Determinants of Diplomacy: Above and Beyond Political Boundaries
The multi-faceted nature of global health today is mirrored in the complexity of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which touch upon the social, security, cultural, political, economic, and environmental determinants of health. These factors are interdependent, comprehensive, and provide a basis for youth to address some of the most pressing issues facing the world at this time.
As young Canadian professionals, we know how contentious access to health systems and services can be in different contexts.
Because these factors ultimately form the foundation for engaging in diplomatic relations, youth must be well versed in each of them. It is also essential to build relationships with governments, civil society organizations, institutions, community members, academics, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and others -- regardless of age, religion, nationality, or gender.
Priorities for Canadian Youth In Global Health
The mobilization of knowledge into actionable and operational practice is a top priority among Canadian youth in global health. Canadian students and young professionals are aware of the need to improve coordination and collaboration among health systems actors, and want to facilitate this by putting our learnings into practice. Youth can offer innovative insight to improve the channeling of aid when striving for equitable and efficient health systems, particularly when facing the diverse scope of global health actors today.
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Climate change is often at the periphery of global health discussions, yet it is undoubtedly one of the most pressing issues facing not only youth, but the global community at large. Climate change has severe impacts on health systems by exacerbating inequities. The urgency of this issue is reflected in the significant attention it is receiving in the SDG agenda and at Conference of Parties (COP) meetings.
The universal nature of climate change offers the opportunity for collaborative partnerships between youth of all nations and global community stakeholders. Canada's recent ratification of the Paris Declaration provides a point of leverage for the involvement of Canadian youth in operationalizing this agenda.
Another key opportunity for global health diplomacy among youth is to contribute to the increasing discourse on improving sexual and reproductive health services in Canada and worldwide. As young Canadian professionals, we know how contentious access to health systems and services can be in different contexts. With this in mind, the Canadian emphasis on Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH) must be cognizant and inclusive of all sexual and reproductive health needs. Here, leveraging approaches that are led by youth, for youth, can aid in creating a platform to ensure the equitable access, availability, and quality of these services for all Canadians.
Moving Forward
The time for Canadian students and young professionals to engage in topical discussions such as these with leading global health practitioners from around the world is now.
From November 14-18, Vancouver will host the Fourth Global Symposium on Health Systems Research. Having this conference in Canada provides an exciting opportunity for youth to access, engage in, and raise priority issues related to global health. Prior to the Global Symposium, on November 12-13, Canadian Global Health Students and Young Professionals will partner with Emerging Voices for Global Health to host a weekend pre-conference.
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This gathering is an opportunity for youth from around the globe to come together, share insights, and build relationships. Over the course of the weekend, students and young professionals will be challenged to think critically about current global health priorities and encouraged to develop innovative approaches to improve health systems.
These priorities, among others, will be raised at a Symposium session with Karina Gould, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Development. This is a pivotal moment for youth to have their voices heard. We are the next generation and we need to take ownership over global issues facing our health systems right now, to instill the roots of equity in generations to follow.
Nicola Toffelmire is a Master of Public Health candidate at Simon Fraser University and holds an Honours Bachelor of Science from the University of Waterloo. Nicola is Chair of the 2016 Global Health Students and Young Professionals Summit, a pre-conference to the Fourth Global Symposium on Health Systems Research in partnership with Emerging Voices for Global Health. She was recently selected to be Canada's youth delegate at the 2017 World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland.
Annalise Mathers is a Master of Public Health student in the Global Health concentration at Simon Fraser University in British Columbia. Her Honours thesis project examined the future directions of global health within the scope of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She currently works as Research and Policy Assistant with the Centre on Governance at the University of Ottawa, the British Columbia Council for International Cooperation, and at Simon Fraser University.
This blog is part of the series: "Resilient and Responsive Health Systems for a Changing World" by the Canadian Society for International Health and Health Systems Global, to share the central issues that will be explored at the 4th Global Symposium on Health Systems Research in Vancouver, 14-18 November 2016.
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The views expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of CCIC or its members.
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scarletsails via Getty Images New York, NY USA - July 16, 2016: Donald Trump speaks during introduction Governor Mike Pence as running for vice president at Hilton hotel Midtown Manhattan
Back in March 2016, I discussed whether Americans could move to Canada if Donald Trump actually became president. This was several months before he actually secured the Republican nomination. Now that Donald Trump has actually won the election, many Americans are once again considering the possibility of moving to Canada.
I previously reported that it was more difficult to permanently move to Canada than most Americans realized but some type of temporary status might be sufficient. In light of Donald Trump's recent election victory, it is worthwhile to discuss these temporary options again.
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Among disillusioned Americans, it is widely believed that Donald Trump will not win a second term as president. In fact, some outspoken Americans have opined that he will not even finish his initial four-year term. If we assume that Donald Trump would not serve a second term, permanent resident status in Canada is clearly not required.
There are several options available that would permit a U.S. citizen to temporarily reside in Canada for the next four years. The most viable temporary options for U.S. citizens are described below.
Study in Canada
A foreign national who is accepted into a full-time program at a designated post-secondary institution in Canada may obtain a study permit, which will allow them to remain in Canada until the completion of their studies. During their academic studies, international students may work either on-campus or off-campus, for up to 20 hours per week during the school year and 40 hours per week during holidays. Upon completion of their studies, the student may also seek a post-graduation work permit, which will allow them to continue working in Canada.
Work in Canada as a NAFTA Professional
As a result of the North American Free Trade Agreement ("NAFTA"), U.S. citizens (and Mexican citizens also) have the ability to seek a NAFTA Professional work permit, if they fall under one of the professions listed in Appendix 1603.D.1 to Annex 1603 of the NAFTA. These work permits may be issued for up to three years at a time, with no cap on the number of renewals.
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In most, but not all of the listed professions, a baccalaureate (or higher) degree is required. Although not specifically stated in Appendix 1603.D.1, the applicant's degree must be in the same field as the listed profession (or in a closely related field). That said, some professions permit alternate credentials, such as a two year post-secondary diploma plus three years of relevant work experience (i.e. computer systems analyst) or five years of relevant work experience (i.e. management consultant).
Admittedly, Donald Trump has threatened to renegotiate the NAFTA, and to withdraw from the agreement if he cannot obtain the terms that he wants. However, according to CIBC, if the United States does withdraw from the NAFTA, Canada and the United States could revert back to the Canada-United States Free Trade Agreement ("CUSFTA"), which was in place before the NAFTA. The CUSFTA contained immigration provisions that were similar to the NAFTA. Assuming that this occurs, the professional work permit category should continue to be available.
Work in Canada as an Intra-Company Transferee ("ICT")
This is the most common work permit category used by employees of multinational organizations. The ICT work permit is available to executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge employees who have been employed with a foreign employer for at least one year during the preceding three years, and who are transferring to a related entity in Canada in a similar position. Americans fortunate enough to be working for a multinational organization may be eligible for an ICT work permit, if they can convince their employer to transfer them to their Canadian office.
Employees of small and medium sized enterprises may also qualify for ICT work permits, as long as they meet the requirements of the category. So the owner of a small or medium sized company, which has sufficient staffing to establish his or her executive/managerial position, could be transferred to the company's related entity in Canada.
In most cases, ICT work permits are issued for up to three years initially. Extensions may also be granted up to a maximum of seven years for executives and managers, or five years for specialized knowledge workers. This would be more than sufficient to avoid Donald Trump's entire four-year term.
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Although the NAFTA ICT work permit could be eliminated if Donald Trump withdraws from the NAFTA, a similar work permit also existed under the CUSFTA. More importantly, there is a parallel ICT category available to all nationalities, which would continue to be available even if President Trump withdraws from the NAFTA.
Work as a NAFTA Treaty Investor or Treaty Trader
NAFTA Treaty Trader and Treaty Investor work permits are entrepreneurial work permits given to self-employed business owners (holding either U.S. or Mexican citizenship) who either:
Carry on substantial trade in goods or services principally between the United States and Canada (Treaty Trader); or
Establish or purchase a business in Canada in which they have invested a substantial amount of capital (Treaty Investor).
This work permit category also includes supervisory, executive, or essential skills employees of the Treaty Trader or Treaty Investor.
The Treaty Trader and Treaty Investor categories are based on the NAFTA. However, similar work permit categories also existed under the CUSFTA. Assuming that the United States and Canada reverted back to the CUSFTA, Treaty Trader and Treaty Investor work permits should continue to be available even if president-elect Trump withdraws from the NAFTA.
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Treaty Investor and Treaty Trader work permits are issued for only one year initially. However, they may be extended for two years at a time, with no limit on the number of extensions that may be granted. This is more than sufficient to avoid Donald Trump's entire four-year term.
Conclusion
Clearly, there are still many temporary options available to Americans. Any one of these temporary options could allow a disillusioned U.S. citizen to wait out Donald Trump's presidential term from the comfort of Canada.
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wildpixel via Getty Images Racial ethnic social issue and equality concept or cultural justice symbol as a black and white crumpled paper shaped as a human head on old rustic wood background with a puzzle piece as a metaphor for social race issues.
A February 2015 edition of The Economist featured an article entitled "The Melting Pot works."
It cites Benjamin Franklin who once complained that German immigrants swarmed into our settlements and will never adopt our language or customs. The Economist points out that "97 per cent of German-Americans speak only English at home. And although they are perhaps America's largest single ethnic group -- 46 million claim German ancestry -- their neighbours barely notice them, so thoroughly have they assimilated (you'd hope that's the case after more than two centuries of settlement in the country).
At best, the above citation suggests that United States is a melting pot for the white population, an observation that overlooks a seismic contradiction.
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Respected American thinker now residing in Canada, Richard Florida, has observed that "Americans like to think of their country as the world's great melting pot." He adds that it's an assumption that can no longer be taken for granted." That's an understatement.
You don't have to look very far these days to challenge the melting pot idea. All that is needed is a glimpse at the racial divisions that have marked the 2016 United States presidential election and others prior. In fact, those who boast about the American melting pot are generally thinking about the successful assimilation of white Americans in a society with perpetual racial divisions than run deep across the country. In other words, it's a selective melting process while some get melted and many others. Too often, the melting is based on skin colour.
In the 2012 U.S. presidential election, the Republican candidate, Mitt Romney won the support of some sixty per cent of whites, but just over one in four Hispanics and Asian-Americans and approximately six per cent of African-Americans. The 2016 Republican candidate Donald Trump did about the same. Unlike Romney however his campaign was explicit driving an "us" and "them" narrative with racial overtones. It made the melting pot paradigm sound more like fiction rather than sociological observation.
Writer Amanda Taub has contended that behind the political turmoil of 2016 is a crisis of white identity. Throughout most of American history, there have been essentially two main divisions in American politics: over economic policy (essentially: more or less government intervention in the economy) and over social/cultural/identity issues. She defines whiteness as being part of the group whose appearance, traditions, religion and even food are the default norm. It's being a person who, by unspoken rules, was long entitled as part of "us" instead of "them."
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The white ethnic majority is worried about the evolution of their country. This concern underlies the tensions that characterize relations between communities in the United States. Taub suggests that economic and social transformations have led many people to anchor themselves more fully in their whiteness -- even as whiteness itself has lost currency.
Surely the objective of a melting pot would be to strengthen national identity as it diminishes attachments to ethnic, racial and religious identities. Ultimately that model reduces prejudices towards minorities as they melt into the mainstream. The anti-minority rhetoric of the 2016 U.S. presidential election campaign does not give the impression that the melt is working particularly well for Hispanics, African Americans and Muslim Americans amongst others.
Canadian politics have also seen their share of divisions along immigrant and ethnic lines with federal Liberals faring considerably better over the course of the last century than the country's Conservatives. But minorities are not locked into one party. In what's long been a multi-party system, the New Democrats have successfully secured support amongst ethnic and racial minorities.
In the last federal election campaign, the federal Conservatives made an unsuccessful attempt to build voter support by proposing veiled measures that would inevitably stigmatize the country's Muslim population. The U.S. elections demonstrated than such an approach works better in the so-called melting pot than it does in a multicultural society.
Those Canadians with melting pot envy should think twice before asking domestic supporters of multiculturalism to look south of the border for the model in meeting the challenges of diversity.
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We're nearly a week in and Trump's America has already turned into a dystopian nightmare. When I predicted that as a potential outcome in my night-of analysis, the next morning I thought maybe I was being melodramatic.
Nope, apparently not.
'A swastika and the words "Seig Heil 2016" were spray painted on a storefront in South Philadelphia.' #TrumpRiothttps://t.co/B1GxmaWHOh elliot morrow (@EllMorrow) November 11, 2016
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Spiraling hate crimes committed as a twisted celebration of Donald Trump's ascension to the world's most powerful political role -- a number USA Today reported over the weekend was already worse than what happened after 9-11 -- culminated in the installation of white nationalistanti-Semite Steve Bannon in the White House.
The former CEO of Breitbart News, the alt-right's primary media outlet and now presumably Trump's personal Pravda, was named chief strategist and senior counselor to the president.
Five days of spiraling hate crimes...culminated in the installation of white nationalist anti-Semite Steve Bannon in the White House
As the Southern Poverty Law Center warned: "This is unacceptable. Bannon is the mastermind behind a resurgent white nationalism online through his Breitbart empire and now, it seems, he intends to bring that project into the most powerful office on the planet."
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It wasn't just civil rights organizations sounding the alarm, either. These tweets came from John Weaver, Republican presidential candidate John Kasich's top adviser.
The racist, fascist extreme right is represented footsteps from the Oval Office. Be very vigilant America. John Weaver (@JWGOP) November 13, 2016
Just to be clear news media, the next president named a racist, anti-semite as the co-equal of the chief of staff. #NotNormal John Weaver (@JWGOP) November 13, 2016
So let's take a step back from all the pleas to give him and his supporters a chance because maybe they didn't mean it, maybe he just said it to be elected and maybe they voted because of economic anxiety.
In short: those maybes don't matter.
'Heil Trump': Vandals attack Indiana church with swastika and anti-gay slur while praising Trump https://t.co/nLR2LKu1onpic.twitter.com/3oGj1cDRrK Raw Story (@RawStory) November 14, 2016
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Let's tackle the first one, that Trump doesn't mean it.
You know who else the press thought was saying hateful rhetoric to get elected? Hitler. Yes, that Hitler. The New York Times reported in 1922 that:
"Several reliable, well-informed sources confirmed the idea that Hitler's anti-Semitism was not so genuine or violent as it sounded, and that he was merely using anti-Semitic propaganda as a bait to catch masses of followers and keep them aroused, enthusiastic, and in line for the time when his organization is perfected and sufficiently powerful to be employed effectively for political purposes."
You can't scapegoat vulnerable communities for 16 months and then walk away.
Besides, if we were to believe that Trump was using it as a bait-and-switch then he should have switched by now. Instead, he ignored the graffiti swastikas replacing the "T" in his last name spray-painted on windows during Kristallnacht, the day after his election. He ignored the news reports and social media posts of hate crimes targeting blacks and gays and Muslims and women.
Neo-Nazis celebrate Trump's victory by painting swastikas & "Trump rules" graffiti in Philadelphia. #NotMyPresidenthttps://t.co/MGAqTU4YvB Rafal Hill (@rafalhill) November 10, 2016
I kept hearing that these hate crimes aren't his fault because he doesn't even believe it. Well, if you yell fire in a crowded theatre and chaos ensues, you're not absolved of responsibility just because you never believed there was a fire.
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That just makes it worse.
You can't scapegoat vulnerable communities for 16 months and then pretend it was our imagination. Nearly a week of this ensued before he addressed it, when pressed, on 60 Minutes, saying "stop it."
But before we congratulate him on meeting the lowest of expectations, keep in mind he only did this after feigning ignorance about hundreds of hate crimes and then minimizing them.
Donald Trump: I am very surprised to hear that-- I hate to hear that, I mean I hate to hear that-- Lesley Stahl: But you do hear it? Donald Trump: I don't hear it -- I saw, I saw one or two instances... Lesley Stahl: On social media? Donald Trump: But I think it's a very small amount. Again, I think it's-- Lesley Stahl: Do you want to say anything to those people? Donald Trump: I would say don't do it, that's terrible, 'cause I'm gonna bring this country together. Lesley Stahl: They're harassing Latinos, Muslims-- Donald Trump: I am so saddened to hear that. And I say, "Stop it." If it -- if it helps. I will say this, and I will say right to the cameras: Stop it."
Now about those Trump voters who we are being told to understand more about their motivations, well, the folks who keep saying this are mostly white. It's easy, because they're not the targets. The election is over, they say, just come together.
Well here's the thing: racist-adjacent is still racist.
Doesn't matter why you support Trump. I'm sure some people voted for Hitler because they liked his tax policy. I've no doubt that some Mussolini voters were motivated by locomotive punctuality.
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Racist-adjacent is still racist.
But if you support a bigot who campaigns on bigotry, it doesn't matter what your personal motivation was. The consequences for targeted communities is the same.
This is not Romney, or McCain, or even Bush. The KKK is staging victory parades and its former Grand Wizard David Duke is gloating on Twitter.
As John Oliver said on his first Last Week Tonight episode since the election: "This is not normal. It is fucked up."
This is one of the most exciting nights of my life -> make no mistake about it, our people have played a HUGE role in electing Trump! #MAGApic.twitter.com/HvJyiJYuVa David Duke (@DrDavidDuke) November 9, 2016
In the wake of the election, there have been many calls to better understand the white working class voter and placing blame on "political correctness" for what Van Jones dubbed on election night "a whitelash."
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In other words, that the real problem was that we weren't paying enough attention to straight white people and shouldn't have been calling for diversity, equality and respect.
But arguing that if you just didn't challenge straight white male supremacy then they wouldn't have elected a straight white male supremacist is no different than blaming a rape victim for what she wore, or a gay-bashing victim for kissing his boyfriend, or a Jew for wearing a Star of David necklace.
For those who smugly think this is an American problem, well, it's already here.
The lesson is not that we shouldn't have agitated for equality. The lesson is not that we shouldn't have challenged police brutality. The lesson is not that we shouldn't have defended our Muslim brothers and sisters. The lesson is not that we shouldn't have demanded that women, especially women of colour, have the right to fair wages and not be pussy-grabbed.
We should have done all those things, and we should keep doing all those things.
Swastika sprayed on Ottawa elementary school. Don't say Trump's racism won't affect us in Canada. https://t.co/oTcwsZUKfn ArielTroster (@ArielTroster) November 13, 2016
And for those who smugly think this is an American problem, well, it's already here. Canadians, including myself, have already been subjected to alt-right attacks online, hate crimes have been rising, 68 per cent of Canadians want minorities to "fit in" more and Conservative leadership candidate Kellie Leitch is selling herself as Canada's Donald Trump.
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Stop normalizing what is going on here before the crisis grows even greater.
Oh, and an Ipsos-Reid poll released one week ago found that 76 per cent of Canadians would consider voting for a "Canadian candidate with Trump-like policies."
Economic anxiety is always the foundation of ethnic scapegoating -- remember that the Great Depression was what fuelled the Nazi rise to power -- so how about we stop normalizing hate before this crisis grows even greater and spreads even further?
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VisionsofAmerica/Joe Sohm via Getty Images Welcome to Canada Sign
Blog posts are not legal advice.
I am an immigration lawyer. I analyze people, facts and law, determine courses of action based on applicants' eligibility and different immigration streams available -- and complete the applications.
Many Americans are considering immigrating to Canada on a temporary or permanent basis. This is because Canada is a diverse, multicultural nation with a vibrant economy and lots of natural resources.
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For those looking to make the move, here are some different immigration options for you:
1. Parents
If a parent is a Canadian citizen by way of birth in Canada or otherwise, that person's child is a Canadian citizen as well, regardless of where the child was born. The applicant must apply for Proof of Canadian Citizenship, and he/she will need to provide his/her Canadian parent's birth certificate and include it as part of the application package.
2. Marriage/Common-Law Relationships
For those that are married or living together for one year in a common-law relationship, and one of them is a Canadian citizen or a Permanent Resident of Canada, the Canadian can sponsor his/her spouse or partner to come to Canada as a Permanent Resident. This applies to same-sex marriages/common-law relationships as well. The applicant must prove the genuineness of their relationship.
3. Job Offer/Work Permit
If someone can obtain a permanent, full-time job offer in Canada, it is a way to live and work in Canada, and in time, obtain Permanent Residence status in Canada. Depending on the applicants' profession or line of work, there may be a series of steps for the employer to take for the Work Permit to be processed.
4. North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)
If applicants meet certain requirements, NAFTA will allow them to obtain legal status in Canada to work. The applicant's profession must fall within the prescribed list of professions.
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5. Provincial Programs for Skilled Workers
Many of the provinces provide a pathway to Permanent Residence through their provincial nominee programs. An applicant's eligibility is generally based on a ranking system that takes some or all the following into account: English proficiency, work experience, education and adaptability. These programs can apply to both skilled and non-skilled workers.
6. Business Immigration
If someone has the requisite wealth and is prepared to purchase or establish a business/invest in Canada, this would be an option to consider. Some provinces have provincial nominee programs for investors/entrepreneurs that have minimum net-worth requirements.
7. Study Permit
For those looking to start school or supplement their education, they can apply for a Study Permit. With a Study Permit, one is entitled to a Post Graduate Work Permit after completing a program of eight months of full-time studies. In many provinces, after six months of full-time, permanent employment, one may be entitled to apply for Permanent Residence through the provincial nominee program.
8. Visitor
An American can enter Canada as a visitor for six months. They can remain in Canada after six months if they continue to apply for, and are issued extensions of their Visitor Record. A Visitor in Canada must have the means to support themselves and will not be authorized to work in Canada unless they obtain a Work Permit.
9. Federal Express Entry
These are federally implemented programs that are based on Canada's employment needs and assess applicants based on their ability to become economically established, which is determined based on factors such as age, education, work experience and connection to Canada.
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Inadmissibility
Someone can be deemed inadmissible to Canada if they have a criminal conviction, medical issue or have previously misrepresented themselves to a Canadian immigration official. For those applicants that fall into this category, there still may be immigration options available, but the application process will be more complicated.
For more information on the various immigration options available to Americans, feel free to contact our law office or stay tuned for the remainder of this series, where I will explore each of these options in more detail.
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GBlakeley via Getty Images Queen's Park is an urban park in Downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Opened in 1860 by Edward, Prince of Wales, it was named in honour of Queen Victoria. The park is the site of the Ontario Legislative Building, which houses the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, and the phrase 'Queen's Parka is regularly used as a metonym for the Government of Ontario.
In 2011, the Ontario College of Teachers commissioned former Ontario Justice Patrick LeSage to conduct an independent review of our disciplinary processes and practices. Our intent then -- as it is now -- was to see where we could improve.
Our Council adopted Justice LeSage's report and his 49 recommendations, which were focused on two key themes: efficiency and transparency.
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The College moved quickly to implement change where it could and needed the province to amend its laws to address all the recommendations. After four long years of collaboration, the Protecting Students Act will soon become law.
We're almost there.
Almost, but not quite.
Our support for the spirit of the proposed bill is aligned to our belief in -- and continuing commitment to -- transparency and accountability.
The College licenses teachers to work in publicly funded Ontario schools. It accredits the programs and courses that enable people to become teachers and to remain vital and current in their practice. It establishes the ethical standards for the profession and the standards of practice for teaching. And, going on 20 years now, it has enforced Ontario law with respect to matters of professional misconduct, incompetence and fitness to practice involving College members. In short, the College regulates Ontario's teaching profession in the public interest.
Although professional misconduct in Ontario is rare (fewer than 20 people out of 243,000 Ontario Certified Teachers have their certificates revoked in any given year), we treat every concern, every complaint, every investigation and every hearing with utmost seriousness. We act with the highest respect for student safety, for the fair, open, and timely treatment of our members, and in appreciation of the public's right to know.
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We welcome the proposed act and the many elements which we asked for and which will advance transparency and efficiency. Eight areas, however, aren't aligned with our recommendations or overall objectives.
For example, we believe that decisions that come out of publicly held disciplinary hearings should always be public. Justice LeSage recommended that those decisions must be published and available on our website with the name of the member. Further, he said that agreements arising from our complaint resolution process should also be posted publicly, a practice that is already expected of health regulators under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991. We're perplexed that instead of being asked to be more transparent -- as is required of Ontario's health regulators -- we're being asked to conceal information.
There are 834 discipline decisions available in our online library as well as on Quicklaw and CANLII. Once the law passes, 376 of those decisions would have to be removed after three years. Decisions with findings of professional misconduct in which terms, conditions or limitations have been imposed on a member's certificate would be no longer be available.
The Supreme Court of Canada says that teachers are teachers all the time. By virtue of their authority and the public trust placed in them, we believe that they should not develop personal relationships with students at any age, and particularly students under 18 or with special needs.
If someone is accused of sexual assault, they should not be exempted from the College's disciplinary process. They aren't in criminal courts. The Protecting Students Act would grant exemptions to teachers who marry their students.
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As well, under the proposed act, a teacher whose certificate has been revoked for anything other than sexual abuse, sexual misconduct or child pornography may still be in the classroom while an appeal is being heard, potentially putting further students at risk. We believe that immediate revocation should apply in all cases.
We've drawn these matters to the government's attention. At the same time, we see that the proposed legislation as a whole is good, progressive and responds to our recommendations.
Ensuring student safety and transparency in matters of professional misconduct are ideals we can all support.
Bloomberg via Getty Images Signage stands outside the Duke Energy Corp. Gallagher Station power plant in New Albany, Indiana, U.S., on Monday, July 27, 2015. Coal reclaimed its ranking as the top fuel for generating electricity at U.S. power plants in May, beating natural gas, which took the number one spot for the first time in April. Photographer: Luke Sharrett/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Sometimes huge issues just slide along under the radar until, all of a sudden, they blow up. The shock can come from a brown envelope slid under a door, a "scoop" in the media or an opposition politician discovering a serious failure in government.
I'm waiting for such an explosion to occur at the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board. This organization has assets of $287 billion and provides pensions for the 19 million Canadians who pay into it.
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The Investment Board is dangerously gambling and putting our future in danger by investing billions of dollars in risky fossil fuel companies. Moreover, the Board is knee deep in unethical investments in the coal industry.
The collapse of a huge cooling pond dam at a coal mine in North Carolina during Hurricane Matthew last month didn't cause a stir in Canada, but it should have. The facility in question is owned by Duke Energy -- perhaps the most vilified energy company in the United States -- and the Pension Fund Investment Board is heavily invested in Duke.
Earlier, a Duke pond leaked dirty effluent into a North Carolina river. The company paid a $102-million fine continues to face numerous law suits while it is involved in a $3-billion clean-up. The loss had an impact on the Canadian investments.
"You should also know CCPIB has large investments in more than 30 polluting coal companies," says Friends of the Earth Canada (FOE Canada). FOE Canada commissioned staff of the magazine Corporate Knights, which calls itself the magazine of clean capitalism, to investigate Pension Plan investments.
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At a time when countries around the world are phasing out coal operations, the Investment Fund is holding billions of dollars in coal operations. Canada is far behind in meeting its carbon reduction obligations, and burning coal is the single greatest threat to our climate.
Fund owns a fracking operation
There's more. In October the Investment Board bought 95 per cent of a company that acquired EnCana's fracking operation in Colorado for US$900 million. Since then it has bought an oil company in Saskatchewan for $975 million, and a pipeline in Alberta for $1.4 billion.
At a time when pension investment boards and other investors in other countries are abandoning dirty fossil fuels, why is the Canadian Pension Board stuck somewhere in the past?
The Investment Board says that companies involved in the fossil fuel sector yield good returns. In addition, Michel Leduc, Head of Public Affairs and Communications, says the Board can accomplish more as an "engaged investor," working with companies.
The Investment Board's fossil fuel holdings are massive. Late in 2015, fossil fuel producers or pipeline companies made up about 22 per cent of the CPP's Canadian investments and about six per cent of its foreign investments, says a research paper written by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives.
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The Investment Board keeps information about its carbon-producing holdings as secret as possible. Of the 120 global investors representing $10 trillion in assets who have committed to publicly disclose their portfolio carbon footprint via the Montreal Carbon Pledge, the Investment Board and nine other top Canadian pension funds are not listed.
Energy stocks have bleak future
Meanwhile, analysts say energy stocks are doomed.
Because of its heavy fossil fuel holdings, critics worry that the Investment Board is putting its overall profitability at risk. Corporate Knight's Publisher Toby A.A. Heaps says the Board is doing a poor job of managing what is called "climate risk."
With the lower price of fossil fuels and investors moving into renewable sources of energy, many fossil fuel companies are losing their value while others are going out of business. People fear that the Board could lose big if this trend continues and it does not sell some of its holdings.
In fact, Corporate Knights says the Investment Board likely missed out on profits of $US6.5 billion by sticking with climate polluting industries instead of switching to other, safer investments. The estimate is based on research Corporate Knights carried out for an Irish group.
It is no surprise the Investment Board takes a pro-fossil fuel, non-divestment position. Seven of the 12 members of the Board have had, or continue to have, deep personal financial ties and/or business connections to both or either of the fossil fuel and energy industries.
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Board pretends to be independent
The Investment Board's description of its relationships are misleading. It claims that "CPP Fund assets belong to the 19 million contributors and beneficiaries who participate in the CPP" but, in fact, beneficiaries are powerless when it comes to having any say in the operation of the Fund.
The Board also rather arrogantly claims that "management reports to an independent, professional board of directors, not to government," and that "we were created to operate at arm's length from governments and to make independent investment decisions." However, it is ultimately responsible to the Finance Department.
Because the Investment Fund is dangerously out of control, Finance Minister Bill Morneau, a pension expert, should arrange an independent investigation to determine to what extent Investment Board practices are putting billions of dollars at risk.
In addition, environmental organizations should scream blue murder over the fact that an institution so central to the welfare of the people of this country is deeply involved so heavily in the coal and non-renewable energy sector.
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It is inexcusable that these extremely dangerous and unethical activities have gone on for so long right under the federal government's nose. An unexpected and rapid decrease in the returns on fossil fuel holdings could put the pensions for thousands of Canadians in grave danger.
You can read Nick's other posts from his blog A Different Point of View
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For people who are still wondering "how did this happen," do not waste precious time trying to figure out the voters. Look no further than your TV and at your local newspaper. There was news to be reported, but the media was more interested in a soap opera. They were the real drivers of the "clown car" this year.
First there were the desperate attempts by the media to normalize Trump's behaviour with constant false equivalences. When Trump did something insulting or controversial, the media felt an odd need to even this out by constantly going back to talk about Clinton's emails. It's not just that they reported the non-scandal as being bigger than it actually was, they reported it as being as big as everything else combined.
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Imagine a scale where, on one side, was everything from Trump University to rape allegations to tax returns to ties with Russia to "Grab 'em by the p**y" to "Second Amendment People" to "Mexicans are sending rapists" to "He founded ISIS" to Trump Foundation money to "I like people who weren't captured" to A BIG WALL. Now, on the other side of that scale? Clinton's emails. It wasn't enough that the media showed that scale as being equal; it went and put its thumb on it, too.
The media treated one person this year like a candidate for president. It treated the other like an entertainer.
Midway through the election, the media decided to stop fact checking or reporting anything else. It hammered home a scandal that, only two days before the election, turned out to not be a scandal at all. This would all be fine if what was going on was actual reporting. Instead, it was a lot of talking. It was two people on TV going back and forth with their opinion on not right or wrong, true or false... but left versus right.
While barely even mentioning the stack of lies Donald Trump was spewing all year long, the media devoted time talking about Clinton's smile. Yes, her smile. And then this same media seemed baffled whenever told that sexism might be at play.
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Donald Trump, prone to go off on Twitter feuds in the middle of the night, was praised for "staying on message" simply when he didn't lose his marbles onstage. Clinton, acting like any other male politician before her, was deemed "cold". Over at CNN, Wolf Blitzer embarrassingly called Clinton "emotional" when she was being stoic. And then there was the endless talk about Clinton's pantsuits. Cable news actually treated a presidential candidate like a guest on What Not To Wear, never mentioning the fact that Trump constantly wears the same unflattering black suit.
They gave billions of dollars in free press to one candidate all year long, treated every wild accusation he made as if it were fact, and then made endless accusations about a non-scandal seem to share equal footing with real controversies... only to then scratch their heads and wonder why voters had trust issues.
Forget whether Clinton should or should not have won. That's history now. The voters spoke. There's no part of me that will say that the media itself is responsible for who won.
But the media treated one person this year like a candidate for president. It treated the other like an entertainer. Meanwhile, its flippancy with one compared to their thirst for blood with the other is exactly why they now come out of the election with egg on their faces. Because the entertainer's supporters treated him like a serious candidate all along. The media should have as well.
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The media's role is supposed to be to find the news itself, not to be led by the hand. Much of that was thanks to the awful behavior by The FBI and, specifically, by FBI director James Comey. Forget partisan politics for a moment, because even Republicans thought Comey poorly did his job. Legal experts shook their heads at the fact that FBI directors just don't talk about these things until there's actually something to report. But Comey opined just like the political hacks on cable news. And then he talked again. And then again. That rabid media jumped each time and -- rather than report the fact that there was really nothing to report -- kept speculating. And debating. Two talking heads went back and forth about "what if" rather than "what is." For the first time in U.S. history, the head of the FBI became one of them.
The real story should have been that Russia and the FBI both had a hand in influencing the U.S. presidential election; the fact that an FBI director acted like a publicist rather than the top law enforcement agent. This is the same media who spent more time vetting Clinton's emails than it did actual stolen emails from Wikileaks. The media had more trust in Julian Assange than it had in itself. They gave him far more credit than they deserve from us.
Then there's the constant talk about "white working class." The media kept repeating that "people are angry, and Trump is talking to them." It should have been telling them the truth, which is that America is doing far better than people feel. Rather than tell the facts, the media repeated the myth. And it stuck. Just like the myth of Trump supporters as this, "working class" average joe from the Rust Belt, rather than mostly white men earning seventy grand per year. The media never took the responsibility to report that maybe that anger was misdirected.
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The media never took the responsibility to report that maybe that anger was misdirected.
And it continues today. The media has totally stopped talking about the inflammatory language tossed out by Trump and his supporters. They've switched the narrative to "White Working Class" and how this election rejected "The Elites." Rather than point out that The president-elect is a billionaire Manhattanite who has spent his life exploiting the very system the "white working class" despises, they're calling the candidate who actually got the most votes "out of touch." There needs to be more talk about the very reality that millions of voters are incredibly misinformed. The Democrats may indeed be out of touch with the people. But the people are terribly out of touch with the facts. It's supposed to be the media's job to inform them.
Ward Anderson is co-host of the SiriusXM talk radio program Ward & Al, heard weekdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. EST on the "Canada Talks" channel. Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, he doesn't need to move to Canada because Trump won... because he already lives there.
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The Washington Post via Getty Images NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 9: President-elect Donald Trump addresses supporters at an election night event at the New York Hilton Midtown November 8, 2016 in New York City, New York.(Photo by Jabin Botsford /The Washington Post via Getty Images) (Photo by Jabin Botsford /The Washington Post via Getty Images)
Workopolis recently suggested that disgruntled Americans should follow through on their threats to move to Canada. Well, it seems that many are seriously considering taking the career site up on the offer.
As the world watched the presidential election results, visits from the U.S. to Workopolis increased by 237 per cent over the course of three hours.
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Looking at it hour by hour, visits from the U.S. were already up 179 per cent in the hour before 11 p.m., compared to the same time period the day before. As midnight approached, they were 205 per cent higher than the same time on Monday, and they continued to climb as the result of the election became clear.
.@realDonaldTrump is the first Republican presidential candidate to win #Wisconsin since Ronald Reagan in 1984. #ElectionNighthttps://t.co/YjxoHzrIXi -- Fox News Research (@FoxNewsResearch) November 9, 2016
In the hour after midnight, the amount of visits from the U.S. to Workopolis was 384 per cent higher than it had been during the same period the night before.
If you think all Americans needed was some sleep, think again: this surge in U.S. visitors has carried over to this morning. At 6 a.m. today U.S. traffic was up 105 per cent compared to the same time period on Tuesday, and it has continued to increase throughout the morning, with:
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The 7 a.m. hour 138 per cent higher than the day prior
The 8 a.m. hour up 147per cent
The 9 a.m hour up 148 per cent
The 10 a.m. 122 per cent higher than the same hour yesterday
Here is a visual snap shot of hourly visits from the U.S. to Workopolis, starting from 9 p.m. on Tuesday night.
This probably is not all that surprising considering that as the results of the election came in, the Citizenship and Immigration Canada's website crashed. If you tried visiting the site around 11 p.m. ET on Tuesday, you would have seen the following error: "there is a problem with the resource you are looking for, and it cannot be displayed."
According to a spokesperson for Citizenship and Immigration Canada, there were more than 200,000 users accessing the site at that time, with American IP addresses accounting for approximately 50 per cent of the traffic. We were told that, on average, the percentage of users from American IP addresses ranges from 8.8 per cent to 11.6 per cent.
What does this all mean? It's probably unlikely that we'll see an influx of Americans moving north, but in the short-term, they're certainly exploring the option. The bad news for them is that they might find getting a work permit much more challenging than they expected.
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A Students For Liberty activist carries a protest sign at the World Health Organization's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control 7th Annual Conference of the Parties in New Delhi, India.
DELHI - It's only fitting that a conference dedicated to the eradication of smoking tobacco would be held in a city caked with smog pollution.
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Last week in Noida, a southeastern suburb of New Delhi, delegates from over 180 countries filed out of tour buses for the World Health Organization's seventh Conferences of the Parties Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
The dangerous levels of pollution in New Delhi certainly worried the health-conscious crowd in attendance and provided a great dose of irony as a backdrop for a global conference on regulating public health.
Arriving at the COP7 event, it was impossible to miss the large military and police presence at the front gate, as well as the half dozen checkpoints keeping the health regulators away from the general public.
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Many people wearing cloth masks entered, coughing and wheezing as they pick up their credentials, and hundreds of national representatives, journalists, NGOs, and members of the public rushed to the center of the conference center once inside to seek refuge in air conditioning.
The day began with optimistic words from the head of the conference on the transparency of the process.
"We are an organization dedicated to transparency, which you can now see on our Tweet wall outside," said WHO FCTC Convention Secretariat Vera Luiza da Costa e Silva at the conference's opening.
The Tweet wall, unfortunately, only featured tweets from the FCTC's official account, and not delegates or members of media present at COP7.
Though members of the public and media were granted entry on the first day, it was well known that they would soon be excluded from the proceedings of the conference.
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Asked when the media would be notified if they were going to be removed or not at the first press briefing on Monday morning, the answer was blunt. "Before the smell of coffee is gone, you'll know," said WHO spokesman Samuel Compton. It didn't take long.
As Daily Caller's Drew Johnson reports, reporters and the public were outright banned from the remaining plenary sessions near the end of Monday evening. This cut off access for the rest of the week to the nearly 100 journalists and members of the public who made their way to New Delhi to participate.
A video has emerged of Johnson being forcibly removed from the floor of the conference on Tuesday morning by Indian security guards, even having his media credential ripped from his neck. The footage was captured by Canadian journalism outlet Rebel.media.
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The reason for the FCTC's insistence on barring journalists and members of the public is given in a report by Reason Foundation's vice president of research, Julian Morris.
"The primary justification the FCTC Secretariat gives for restricting participation and operating in secret is the avoidance of conflicts of interest," writes Morris in the report published on the WHO's opposition to harm reduction strategies.
"But the real reason is that the FCTC doesn't want to allow anyone into the tent who disagrees with its assumption that the only option for smokers is to "quit or die."
The five things you need to know on Monday, November 14, 2016
This morning's Waugh Zone is by Ned Simons. Paul is away. Today's edition is about 'freedom and winning'
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1) NO.10: NO THANKS NIGEL
The idea of Nigel Farage helping the UK government to build links with Donald Trump is "categorically not going to happen," Downing Street said this morning. The dismissal comes amid reports some in the cabinet are unhappy at Theresa May's decision not to reach out to the Ukip leader given over the weekend he became the first British politician to meet Trump.
Writing in The Daily Telegraph this morning, Farage said he was greeted like a "long lost friend" in Trump Tower. As well pressing Trump on as the all important issue of whether every single room in the White House has a bust of Churchill, the Ukip leader and the president-elect spoke about freedom and winning. Its not clear whether the pair spoke about Farages seven losing attempts to be elected to parliament. Probably not.
However Farage has met Trump. The prime minister has not. And the Ukip leader is having a great time in the US. "We love having you here, Nigel Farage. Man of history, no doubt," A Fox News presenter told him yesterday - with the Ukip leader described as America's "pal from across the pond".
2) THE PRESIDENT'S MEN
Conservative MP John Redwood last night said President Trump could be "good for the world". He told BBC Radio 4's Westminster Hour: "I think Mr Trump has some good ideas. Lets not write somebody off before hes even in office or even appointed his staff." Well Trump has begun to appoint his staff - and the headline is his decision to name Steve Bannon, the Breitbart News Network executive chairman known for having white nationalist views as chief strategist and senior counselor.
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John Weaver, an adviser to Ohio Republican Gov. John Kasich, said of the appointment: "Just to be clear news media, the next president named a racist, anti-semite as the co-equal of the chief of staff." Senator Harry Reid (D-Nev.) spokesman said Trumps choice of Bannon signals that White Supremacists will be represented at the highest levels in Trumps White House." He added: It is easy to see why the KKK views Trump as their champion."
Trump also announced Sunday that Republican National Committee Chair Reince Priebus would serve in the chief of staff role.
3) CHANGE IS IN THE AIR
In a speech this evening, May will say Trump's victory shows "change is in the air". In her first lengthy response to last week's US election, the prime minister will say Brexit and the surprise rise of Trump show that the downside of globalisation needs to be tackled because too many low income people feel left out. She will use a key-note Mansion House address to warn that those at the bottom of the economic ladder see globalisation as a job destroying, income cutting cause for concern rather than a necessary boost for trade. We cant deny," May will say. "That there have been downsides to globalisation in recent years, and that in our zeal and enthusiasm to promote this agenda as the answer to all our ills we have on occasion overlooked the impact on those closer to home who see these forces in a different light."
Jeremy Corbyn yesterday told the BBC's Andrew Marr that Trump needed to grow up stop being abusive to immigrants and Muslims. The Labour leader, who has a Mexican wife, Laura Alvarez, was asked how he would get on with Mr Trump if he became prime minister, he said: Im looking forward to the conversation between my wife and Donald Trump. She is a proud Mexican.
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4) DEMILITARISED ZONE
In the same interview, Corbyn said Nato should demilitarise its borders with Russia. Corbyn has long been lukewarm on the UKs membership of Nato. During the 2015 leadership contest he said the alliance should have been disbanded in the 1990s.
Also appearing on Marr, Marine Le Pen, the far-right leader of the French National Front, said the Western military alliance was no longer needed. "Nato is continuing to exist even though the danger for which it was created no longer exists," she said.
Trump's election and the rise of Le Pen in France has triggered a debate about how the media should cover the far-right. And Andrew Marr has defended his decision to interview the French nationalist. In the end we are a news programme and I dont think the best way to honor the fallen is to fail to report on the next big challenge to Western security, he told viewers. Not everyone agreed with his argument. Labour MP Jamie Reed responded it showed a "typically detached BBC" which was a "publicly funded body that believes it's beyond reproach". He added: "Deliberately offensive."
BECAUSE YOUVE READ THIS FAR Kate McKinnon As Hillary Clinton Sings Leonard Cohens Hallelujah On SNL
5) TRUMP: I WILL DEPORT 2 MILLION
Trump plans to deport or imprison somewhere between 2 million and 3 million undocumented immigrants as soon as he takes office. In an interview with CBS News, Trump said he would launch what could be the largest mass deportation effort in modern history, vowing to immediately deport a number of people comparable to the record-setting figure that President Barack Obama carried out over two terms in office.
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What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people, probably 2 million, it could be even 3 million, we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate, Trump said in the interview. But were getting them out of our country, theyre here illegally.
Did American voters just turn the world upside down?
With international affairs pundits saying Donald Trump in the White House means the end of the West as we know it, some certainly believe they did - although many of these obituaries exaggerate US fealty to the rules-based system created after 1945.
It's not just what he said on the stump about economic, diplomatic and military relations with the rest of the world his critics have in mind; it's his character.
Trump has displayed personality flaws beyond the dreams of avarice, which, in a politics-as-normal world, would mean he'd be unfit to occupy any political office, let alone the Oval one.
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Then there is his impetuosity and lack of experience that introduce a whole new element of uncertainty into world affairs.
If this weren't bad enough, Trump appears ignorant of the details of key treaties and international law and his track record doesn't suggest he's good at taking advice.
Some who opposed his election are seeking solace in the fact Trump often says things that are untrue - whether he knows they are or not - so there's a hope he didn't mean all the things he said he would do during the campaign.
Others say he will appoint people who do know what they're doing, but with names like John Bolton being floated for Secretary of State that's very much open to question.
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Still others are making the point that his policies are largely unformed, or at least unarticulated, and argue he will be constrained by Republicans in Congress who don't agree with him.
For all the caveats, one thing is clear - the Trump wild card means the world is set for even more instability than we've seen in recent years.
Did he really mean what he said on the campaign trail about building walls on the Mexican border or slapping huge tariffs on Chinese imports?
Assuming he did - and on many of his positions he has a track record long predating this election - what are the implications for the rest of the world of his victory?
First and foremost attempts to prevent catastrophic climate change are facing a huge setback.
Trump has been explicit on this. He has played to the deniers and conspiracy theorists saying climate change is a Chinese hoax aimed at undermining the US economy and, whether he really believes this or not, he's committed to renouncing the Paris Climate Agreement.
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With the Republicans retaining control of Congress and the certainty he will appoint at least one new Supreme Court justice, he will try to reverse the limited action President Obama has managed to take in the US itself.
There is a chance individual American states and cities will continue to take progressive measures, but if the US abandons international agreements and goes back on action it has already taken, will the other major emitters like China and India stick to their commitments? Maybe the Chinese would, but I doubt India will.
The first major decision Trump will have to make, though, is how to pursue the campaign against ISIS in Syria and Iraq.
The incoming president has been very critical of what he sees as a lack of aggression by the US military and promised to intensify air strikes - which would inevitably lead to more civilian casualties.
He also said he would commit more American ground troops to the fight.
This would likely result in the conflict between the West and violent jihadism dragging on even longer, with all the implications that has for the stability of Muslim countries, relations between Muslims and non-Muslims, and the prospect of ending jihadi terrorism around the world.
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During the campaign, Russia was the foreign country that attracted the most attention with the now President-elect expressing his admiration for President Putin and his scepticism about NATO, as well as Clinton supporters, officials and the media accusing the Kremlin of attempting to influence of the election in Trump's favour.
Under Obama, who came into office promising to reset the relationship with Moscow, relations have tanked and confrontation escalated, particularly over US opposition to Russia's actions in Ukraine and Syria.
In contrast, Trump clearly doesn't see Russian actions intended to maintain their influence in countries from Ukraine to Syria as a threat to US national security.
So, despite his bombastic rhetoric about making America great again, Trump's presidency could well see the strain in relations with Russia ease. We could even see the two nations cooperating in the campaign against ISIS in Syria
We are yet to see how Trump and Putin will really get on, and it may not all be sweetness and light.
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If Trump follows through on what he's said about modernising America's nuclear arsenal, this would antagonise Russia given the importance it attaches to its nuclear arsenal as the guarantee of its security and great power status.
This would also matter because, despite the fact there is less overt concern about the prospect of nuclear war since the end of the Cold War, some strategic commentators and elder statesmen think there is a greater risk of a nuclear conflict now than in the past.
It was this analysis that lay behind Obama's signature policy of trying to reduce the risk of nuclear war - a policy that saw annual global summits, but little concrete action, and is certain to be abandoned by Trump.
For all this, it's relations with China, where Obama's famous pivot, or rebalance, to Asia has already seen a gradual deterioration, that the rest of the world should be most worried.
Some American foreign policy experts say President Xi will have been raising a glass to the Trump victory because the last thing he wanted was a President Clinton who would have taken a hard line on human rights and ramped up Obama's containment strategy of China.
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I don't see it this way. While a Clinton presidency would have probably seen a further deterioration in relations, Trump's approach to China poses a much greater risk to global stability.
Unlike Russia, for Donald Trump, China is a direct threat to American national interests.
If he sticks to what he's proposed during the campaign - an even greater military build-up around Chinese waters and retaliation for alleged unfair trade practices - we are headed for a major escalation in tension.
And with the unpredictable and untested Trump as commander-in-chief and a Chinese leadership which has built its political legitimacy on the back of making China stand tall again in the world, the risk that an accidental clash in the South China Sea could blow up into a major conflagration is much greater.
Trump also suggested long term allies like South Korea and Japan have been freeloading on the American security guarantee and should even acquire their own nuclear weapons.
If Seoul and Tokyo conclude the US commitment to their defence is in doubt, they could well build up their own armed forces - which are hardly negligible now - and go nuclear - to face the threat they perceive from North Korea.
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China in turn would see this as a threat and it would further increase the risk of conflict in East Asia.
Even if Trump is the most isolationist president to be elected since the 1920s, he is, in his own way, a firm believer in American exceptionalism and there's no reason to doubt he means it when he says: America First.
After all if President Obama, who has been castigated for weakening the US role in the world still believes "the question we face .... is not whether America will lead, but how we will lead" as he told West Point cadets in 2014, it would be naive to expect a departure from this way of looking at the world from his successor.
What the world really needs now is a true acceptance in Washington of how the global balance of power is changing and the need to engage with other countries on a genuinely equal and respectful basis - this is a necessary, if not sufficient, condition to restoring some sort of order to global affairs.
But, Donald Trump, who may prove to be the most unprepared, uninformed president ever to enter office, shows no sign of having applied much thought to such questions and is inclined to shoot from the hip.
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This week's trade mission to India is a barometer. The Prime Minister and the International Trade Secretary were not only there to promote trade with the world's largest democracy representing a consumer market of 1.252 billion. They know that they must set out what trading with the UK will look like after we leave the EU for all those other future trading partners who are watching carefully. The outcomes of these talks and the success of the commercial deals undertaken this week may provide a good indication of our future capacity to conclude trade agreements across the world.
Theresa May is following a succession of ministers who have visited India in recent months to talk up our future relationship and try to smooth the way for a trade deal. She will have been hoping for a warm reception. In fact she has got a vindaloo one! - and not in the way she had hoped.
India has made it clear that they are not happy with her government's approach to migration and her own track record in the Home Office where she abandoned the Post Study Work Visa programme. This has caused serious damage to the relationship. More than this - as one of the UK's strongest foreign direct investors, India has had seen the UK as a safe conduit for Indian countries to enter the European market. Unsurprising then that long before the referendum, Prime Minister Modi had expressed his concern about the problems a Leave vote would cause for Indian companies operating in Britain.
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It is no longer possible for UK ministers to appeal to a shared history or common social and cultural institutions and think these can be a substitute for a clear economic offer in a trade deal that represents a win/win for both sides. It is 415 years since the East India Company's Charter was signed in 1601. And British ministers need to realise that it cuts no ice today. In a globalised world the dynamic of future trading relationships will inevitably pivot around the concept of deeper strategic alliances.
The basis for securing preferential future trade terms with India begins in that recognition of essential equality. Indeed it begins in recognising that India is now an emerging global superpower whose primary interests are regional in South East Asia and who needs a deal with the UK less than we need one with her.
The UK has been a leader in global trade punching above our weight for three centuries. Our success has been based not only upon military might; it has sprung from world leading universities and a strong science base, it has been nurtured by embedded legal institutions which guarantee swift and impartial redress in commercial contract disputes, and it has blossomed through a period of manufacturing innovation that gave the world the first industrial revolution. But our exports now are predominantly service based and this changes the dynamic of trade; particularly with countries such as India. India wants access to our educational institutions and it has much to gain from our professional services, but it has a political imperative to protect its agricultural base, and dares not choke off its emerging middle class by opening up its financial services and retail sectors in the way the UK would like.
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India was keen to secure a trade and investment agreement with the EU, officially known as the Broad-based Investment and Trade Agreement (BTIA). Negotiations began in June 2007 but, ultimately, collapsed in 2013 following 12 rounds of formal talks. If the UK is to succeed where Europe failed the new Department for International Trade must study carefully why the terms on offer from the EU were insufficient to tempt India into an agreement. It must also swiftly develop a realistic sense of its own importance. The UK is India's 18th largest trading partner. The EU collectively was its 1st. India's largest single trading partner is China and a number of other Middle Eastern and Asian countries make the list ahead of the United Kingdom.
Trade negotiations require compromise. The extent to which the government is willing to consider compromises with respect to any future trade deal with India and, simultaneously, during talks with the EU, will profoundly influence how willing the rest of the world will be to engage in their own talks with us and what role we will play in wider international affairs. India will want to see a substantive offer from the UK that is worth her lowering tariffs and other barriers to her markets. It is clear what India wants. What is not clear is that the UK is prepared to liberalise the movement of people in the way that India would like.
India is, understandably, keen to develop its own market economy and domestic skillsets rather than to rely on knowledge, goods and services imported from overseas. Modi's government want to facilitate Indian citizens moving freely to provide services - particularly in the IT sector building on Mode IV of the WTO's General Agreement on Trade in Services. This agenda has run counter to the UK's own agenda which has seemingly been about reducing migrant numbers and ensuring the preservation of Geographical Indications for key exports like Scotch Whisky.
During the many years of negotiations, some progress was made with respect to areas such as rice, sugar, textiles, and pharmaceuticals and to some extent the wine sector but stumbled over access to India's highly regulated professional services, financial services and government procurement markets. The UK is a service-led economy with professional services and financial services being our biggest export. As former British Ambassador to Korea, Sir Thomas Harris, said at a recent summit in London: "For the life of me, I cannot see why the Indians would be prepared to offer concessions in services in bilateral talks which they were not prepared to offer in return for access to the EU as a whole."
India is the third largest destination in value terms for Foreign Direct Investment from the UK. But the UK is also the third largest destination for FDI from India. The two-way flow of investment and capital is intrinsic to our capacity to augment and progress our trade relationships but we have to be willing to recognise how much of this has been predicated on our capacity to attract and retain talent from India as well as the significant contribution that British Indian entrepreneurs and investors have made to developing our own market and in creating businesses that drive that trade between our two nations. So many British SMEs are owned or managed by people who came to the UK to seek a better life for themselves and their families - many of these will grow to become the international corporations of our future and we recognise the need to ensure that our trade policy nurtures and grows those businesses ensuring that they have maximum support to export and invest here and overseas. We need to let these business owners know that we value their contribution and welcome their growth.
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India will also be wary of British Prime Ministers who seek to celebrate the unique relationship between the UK and India whenever they visit, only to pour scorn on aid programmes and development support to India when they are back home. Of course India is one of the world's fastest developing economies. But because of her vast size and population, it is no secret that the benefits of this growth have not yet reached all corners of society. The UK should see overseas aid as an investment in the future potential of a market and shouldn't be used as a stick to bash trading partners and strategic allies with. The value of UK aid spending in India is that it ensures that we are able to work with our partners to develop their markets, business and enterprise, to boost labour standards and rights and, ultimately, to boost the incomes of the poorest which, in the long term, boosts demand for British goods and services.
This is why Labour announced the Just Trading initiative, which will see like-minded politicians from across the globe coming together to develop a progressive trade agenda that seeks to promote such rights and standards, alongside protections for the environment and the rights of governments to legislate in the public interest. We have to look at how we are able to work with our partners towards shared objectives that benefit all our citizens and not a few High Net Worth Individuals or Multi-National Corporations. That is why Labour will promote Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises as the fundamental drivers of future economic growth and international trade.
But we cannot support the growth and expansion of any businesses, small or large, until it is clear who our trading partners will be and under what restrictions such trade might take place. Businesses are currently paralysed with uncertainty and are being prevented from pursuing investment. Business leaders are repeatedly calling for the Government to set out what their priorities are for Britain's future trading agenda. If the UK cannot find the ground upon which to advance a trade agreement with India then the British people may well feel that they have been lied to by those who promised that we would secure a flurry of trade deals in quick succession with Commonwealth partners and key international allies.
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As commentators from all sectors try to piece together the early stages of a narrative within which to understand the reality of Trump presidency, one of immediate difficulties is the lack of material upon which to base it. There are a litany of pledges, promises and demands that have been made in the time since he has gone from primary candidate to President of the United States. But there has been few if any detailed or costed pledges that might form the basis of a recognisable manifesto or policy platform. There are rhetoric heavy, simplistic promises that are in many cases incoherent or contrary to previous or concurrent pledges. In order to find out what President elect Trump's actual mandate is we find ourselves scouring through various speeches, debate performances and his '100 day plan'.
My own research focuses on security and US foreign policy, and so I tend to stick to the material that can shine some light on how Trump sees his leadership of the country in terms of geo-politics. Beyond the grandstanding, we can piece together some tendencies. We learn for instance, that Trump is something of a proliferation optimist, meaning he believes that countries attaining nuclear weapons lessens the likelihood of them being involved in conflict. Yet Trump himself famously questioned a group of foreign policy advisers three times in one meeting why, if the US has nuclear weapons, it can't use them. Perhaps the most eye opening revelation from this incident was Joe Scarborough's claim that the President elect's frustration with the responses as to why the US doesn't use its nuclear arsenal is "one of the reasons he just doesn't have foreign policy experts around him."
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That might explain the highly inconsistent or contradictory nature his foreign policy rhetoric. On Russia for instance, Trump has pledged to pursue closer relations with Vladimir Putin, and to work with him to fight ISIS (much to the deep unease human rights campaigners). But when a Russian jet buzzed the USS Donald Cook in the Baltic in May, Trump stated he'd have no problem shooting down planes if warnings weren't heeded as this was 'disrespecting' the country. Trump and VP Mike Pence's very public differences on Putin and Russia are well documented. This is itself reflective of the split amongst Republican voters- between those who want America proactive in meeting global security challenges, and the 54% of Trump voters who maintain America 'does too much' to fix the world's problems. This is to say nothing of the problems that might arise for him if the current investigation into Russia's links to his presidential campaign produce material of interest.
And undoubtedly, the issue of singular importance for the rest of the world when it comes to a Trump foreign policy, is climate change. A UN environment report released just prior to the election stressed the need to cut carbon emissions by roughly a quarter of current outputs by 2030 to have any chance of avoiding dangerous climate change. Even Barack Obama's much vaunted Clean Power Plan is suspected yield reductions well short of this target, with as little as a 9% reduction by 2025.
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But one thing the President Elect has been fairly clear on, even these limited plans are about to go up in smoke. The few hundred words that makes up his plan for the first 100 days in office includes a pledge to end restrictions on fracking, coal and domestic oil production. He promises to speed up major energy infrastructure projects like Keystone XL. And he promises to end America's participation in UN climate change programs. That this comes as grim reading for policy makers attempting to make progress on global climate policy is quite an understatement. Already, many commentators are claiming that the recently signed Paris Climate Pact is now dead on arrival. Whatever ones thoughts about how effective that deal might have been, its death will likely have a profound impact amongst states on the perceived likelihood of any enforceable emissions reduction framework.
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President Trump promises to bring back "a hell of a lot worse than waterboarding". Although he likes it "a lot," he does not "think it's tough enough." What the Spanish Inquisition called tormento del agua is, for Donald Trump, "minimal, minimal torture." As for Guantanamo, he is going to "load it up with bad dudes". He thinks it's just fine to extend the rules governing the Cuban legal black hole to American citizens - something at which President George W. Bush balked.
In other words, he wants to undo all the work that we at my organization Reprieve - and many others - have struggled to carry forward in the years since 9/11, and turn back the clock.
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Human rights victories were surprisingly difficult under eight years of Obama, who failed to make any great effort to close Guantanamo. He released detainees at a far slower rate than his predecessor. He fought us at every turn to hide the horrors - including the still-secret videotapes of former Guantanamo detainees in the force feeding torture chair. And he battled to prevent federal courts from meaningfully evaluating their claims of innocence.
He permitted the CIA (which comes under his authority) to conduct a frenetic campaign to quash the Senate Torture report, even spying on elected senators. It was the first such investigation to refuse to speak to a single torture victim (including every person I have represented in the last 15 years of litigation over these ghastly secret prisons).
And yet, far worse than this, while President Obama claimed that he would end torture and secret prisons, and dispense with the language of the "War on Terror", what he actually did was substitute in a policy of assassinating people around the globe. This has been an ever expanding robotic war where a 'Squirter' is the name given to a target who runs away (and presumably soils himself) when a Predator drone appears overhead, and a 'Bugsplat' is what we call the bloody detritus after the Hellfire missile explodes.
Now, once a week, the great institution that is the White House hosts "Terror Tuesday", where the president sits down to a powerpoint presentation to decide who we will assassinate, with a thumbs down reminiscent of the Roman Coliseum. Rather than take steps to abolish an American death penalty that has become tainted by manifestly unfair trials, our Constitutional-law-professor-turned-President has installed a death penalty where we dispense with a trial altogether. Other countries have now followed suit.
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Instead of kidnapping someone and rendering them half way around the world to a Guantanamo, America now assassinates them - based on the same flawed intelligence that has resulted, to date, in 739 (94.9%) of 779 Guantanamo prisoners being cleared of the allegation that they were the worst-of-the-worst terrorists in the world.
Assassination was declared illegal in 1758. Yet now President Obama has sown some dreadful seeds, and we will witness a bitter harvest. Trump favours assassination, and the woeful intelligence of Guantanamo will dictate who appears on his fickle Kill List.
The fact that we have reached this parlous position, largely without outrage, can be laid at the door of liberals, who have conspicuously failed to deliver the long brown envelope of home truths to our chosen, liberal president. It was easier to combat excess when President Bush was in the White House, because many across the political spectrum were willing to express their outrage.
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Theresa May greeted the President-Elect of the United States with the statement that the UK and US shared the values of 'freedom, democracy and enterprise'. This minimal list contrasted with Angela Merkel's explicit reference to 'respect for the law and the dignity of man, independent of origin, skin colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or political views'.
Our Prime Minister failing to back the rule of law is perhaps unsurprising given the Justice Secretary's hesitancy in defending the independence of British judges. Now we have our Foreign Secretary telling people to stop 'whingeing' and recognize the legitimacy of Donald Trump. This contrasts sharply with his previous doubts about whether Barack Obama really speaks for America (because of his 'part-Kenyan' ancestry).
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These absences are an indication that the rule of law, human rights and race equality aren't really fundamental British values. Donald Trump just won an election in which he threw people of colour (and other minorities) under the bus because he thought it would help him get to the White House. Our government needs to follow Angela Merkel rather than keeping silent on the rights of British minorities in an effort to appease a Trump administration.
Of course the UK needs a close relationship with the United States. But what will the UK government do if the Trump administration bans a few million British citizens from entering the US? Will they say, as their Conservative predecessors did in rejecting the 1965 Race Relations Act, that the democratic majority has the freedom to discriminate, and there's nothing we can do? Or will they instead follow their more recent Conservative predecessors who defended gay rights whether or not a majority of the population rejects those rights?
The evidence continues to show that ethnic minorities in Britain, as in the United States, experience disadvantages in the labour market, criminal justice system, housing, health, and education. Yet as in the United States, there was at least a sense that the rule of law, human rights, antidisicrimination legislation and the promotion of equality were legally enforceable universal values.
As the far-right that rejects these values celebrates Trump's victory, Nigel Farage preens for a plum job in a foreign US administration where he isn't a citizen and doesn't live. If Chuka Umunna or Sayeeda Warsi were to express such ambition they'd be called rootless cosmopolitan citizens of the world and their Britishness questioned. Let's be honest: the upheavals we're seeing across Europe and the United States, and the shameful response to the refugee crisis, aren't just connected by shared economic uncertainty among 'working class white people'.
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Animating the revolt across Europe and now the United States is the idea is that race and religion is what really matters for identity. Fortunately, the majority of British citizens - however they voted in the referendum - reject Farage's racialized sense of a shared identity that apparently trumps even British sovereignty.
Into this vortex we shall shortly see the British government launch its report on integration. We can anticipate this will emphasise British values and offer some 'hard hitting truths' for minority communities. In a spirit of sharing hard hitting truths, let me remind this government that minorities are watching and listening to see which values (and indeed which citizens) the British government will actually defend when push comes to shove.
The question of Britain's (and indeed America's and Europe's) future is existential, both for the safety and rights of ethnic minorities, LGBT and disabled people, and for the values that we as a nation say we uphold. The British government appears a supplicant to the United States, Saudi Arabia, China, and India, neither pointing out the violation of rights among minorities in powerful countries, nor defending British minority citizens from discrimination domestically or globally.
If they can't find the voice to defend human rights and equality they will simply confirm what many minorities have felt for some time: that the British values emperor has no clothes.
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A diagnosis of the autoimmune condition type 1 diabetes means relentless finger pricks, injections, and almost constant food calculations and health decisions. The condition is a day-to-day challenge for anyone because there is never a moment where you are not acting as the doctor of yourself. There is rarely a moment where you forget you have type 1 diabetes. I myself have had type 1 since the age of four, and it has been a weight and stress on me, to say the last. Quickly fluctuating blood sugar levels means I can experience rapid swings from high to low, which are both exhausting and dangerous. Still, the 24-7 nature of the condition alone has not always been my biggest challenge. I spent 20 years of my diabetes life in the USA where I had access to the latest diabetes technology, but the costs of my treatment were more than $500 per month.
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I am so lucky. This is not a case of being exaggeratedly positive. If I were born somewhere else, somewhere where health systems are less resourced, somewhere in the midst of conflict or somewhere with higher proportions of people living in poverty, I would probably not be alive. If I was alive, I would be suffering intensely painful complications. If I were still living in the United States instead of the UK, I would be struggling to pay rent each month due to the exorbitant and ever-increasing price of insulin and other diabetes supplies.
Life with diabetes is a burden, but this burden is vastly more intense for millions of other people around the world. Through T1International, I have spent years connecting with people from around the globe, I've heard their insights about what it is like to live with diabetes in the places where access to medicine and treatment is a struggle. Salomy in Ghana had to sell all of her belongings to afford insulin. Ahmed in Syria has to walk four hours each month in an attempt to find insulin. Why do I so often hear that today a diabetes diagnosis is no longer a death sentence? That statement may be true for wealthy, stable, and reachable communities, but it is simply not the case worldwide. On a day like World Diabetes Day we should all be thinking about the injustice of this global reality and doing something about it.
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T1International launched a survey in March of 2016 to explore the costs that people pay out of pocket for things like insulin, test strips, and other diabetes costs. With over 200 responses from more than 40 countries, what we found quantifies the global struggles that people with diabetes are facing. We compared monthly out-of-pocket costs for type 1 diabetes with average monthly wages in each country. The data showed us that globally, people spend anything from 0% to 118% of their monthly income for costs associated with diabetes. Just to be clear, this means that some people must find a way to pay more than what they earn each month, just to stay alive.
What our survey highlighted is that pricing and payment for things like insulin, test strips, and other diabetes life-savers is a mess. There is no rhyme or reason as to why some people pay extremely high prices, while others do not. Insulin pricing, like the pricing of most drugs, is not transparent. It is clear that many are suffering not only from the stress of not being able to afford their treatment, but from diabetes complications that could be easily avoided if insulin and supplies were more affordable.
One survey respondent from the USA put it this way: ''I would compromise my care if I skimped on supplies as it is impossible to have good control without regular sugar checks...I've joked with family that it would be cheaper for me to die.''
At T1International we question how it can be acceptable that anyone living with diabetes should go into debt or die an early death because of the outrageous prices for insulin and supplies. For World Diabetes Day this year, we are encouraging anyone interested in the cause to stand up against this inequality by signing our Type 1 Diabetes Access Charter. We have resources on our web page to help you contact politicians in your region and encourage them to prioritize the rights of all people with type 1 diabetes.
When I first met my husband in Mexico, the opening lines of two people from England went something like this... Why was he in Mexico? For the sunshine. Why was I in Mexico? For the sunshine. So we already had something in common. It was January and we were both in short sleeves under a beamingly blue sky. The natural topic to turn to was further tales of travelling. He impressed with talk of combi driving the perimeter of Australia, I reciprocated with roadtrip revelations along route San Francisco to Las Vegas. I spoke of Cuba, he talked of Tulum. This was twelve years ago. We have just visited Tulum together, with our three young children. He did not do Tulum justice!
Okay, so much has changed in Tulum since his month or two of hammock sleeping under a palapa for twenty-pesos-a-night, and riding a bike several miles up the road to pick up groceries since there were no restaurants along the beach. The road parallel to the beach is now inundated with every kind of food you could desire, every kind except the cheap eats kind that is, you'd still have to old skool it and hop on your bike to Tulum town for that. There are also still hammocks to jump into for a night's kip but the price tag attached to that hipster hammock woven from the hair-of-mermaids might not be so conducive to sound sleeping. However, that Carribean sea that is there today was there twelve years ago and... He did not do Tulum justice!
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When we drove up the highway to heaven, I had my face pressed up to the glass, trying to car-window-shop to determine where we would be dining during the days (and nights) to come. We were heading to Casa de las Olas, which would be our home in Tulum, and since it has the incredible address of the last property before entering the Sian Ka'an Biosphere I had the opportunity to give every place on the stretch the once over.
However, once we reached Casa de las Olas, I forgot about every other place. Sam Shendow greeted us with a graceful radiance. She led us to our Oceanfront Master Suite of two king beds and a huge living space, with kitchen attached. Whilst stylish, it had the feel of a strong and rooted home. I later found out that having been built in the 1970s and now being 100% sustainable by using underground cenote water and solar energy, it was strong with history and good vibrations as it was rooted with love and renewable resources. Perhaps this was the source of Sam's radiance, the knowledge that she was stepping ever so lightly on this wondrous earth. Our indoor space opened up onto a huge balcony (with hammock) from where we could admire the azules of the sea and the fine white sand, framed by gorgeously green palm trees.
There were just a couple more hours of sunlight left in that October evening, so we wriggled into our bathing suits and walked down the plant-framed path onto the beach. The emerald sea was bathwater warm and as transparent as perfection. My wet brown toes turned to gold as they popped up out of the sea to catch the soft sunlight. Just when I thought the scene could not be any more beautiful, a rainbow caught my eye. It stretched straight up to the magnificent skies... earth was linked to heaven.
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The next morning, it was pure pleasure to have the sun rise up from the water to gently stream in through the huge east facing windows to wake us. The long table, set beside the main house of Casa de las Olas was a stage where strangers faced each other and had the opportunity to talk themselves into a friendship. The beach, for us, was where the friendship rooted itself into hearts. Sculpting sand with three-year-olds saw small hands sharing and big smiles beaming (most of the time). Six-year-olds boogie boarding become families tying knots and paddling out together to snorkel and marvel at modest but miraculous coral formations. The sight of a pelican created excitement and a uniting cry of "Pelicano!", whilst a turtle hatchling caused delight and a united sense of adoration and hope. Then tacos! What better way to celebrate friendship and the future than tacos in Tulum town. Having lived (and travelled) in Mexico for the past twelve years, I can testify that the tacos (and salsa) at Chiapaneca taqueria were divine. (And the ice-cream at the parlour next door was pretty great too!)
I'm sure you have a friend or two who have been raving about Tulum ever since they returned. Believe me, they probably are not doing it justice. Go to Tulum to find out for yourself, and stay at Casa de las Olas so that you too can leave a lighter footprint on the fine white sand.
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The girl who travels spent her teenage years plotting her escape; knowing that the simple life of 9-5 would leave her unfulfilled. Geography lessons excited her; she dreamt that one day she might climb that volcano, see the Great Barrier Reef for herself or step foot on the recently created lava islands that form the Galapagos. She used her mathematical skills to calculate how long it would take her to travel to the places she longed to see and she took GCSE's in French, Italian AND Spanish to help best prepare for her wanderlust-inspired endeavors.
She was learning.
Dreaming of warmer climates, and under pressure to demonstrate career aspirations in college and university, she explored her opportunities: Travel writer? Holiday rep? Cabin Crew? Entrepreneur? Maybe it was just a pipe dream, or perhaps she dipped her ink in all four. But that wasn't enough. From the extended girls' holiday in Malia, 21st birthday celebrations in Vegas and celebrating New Year in Kerala, to doing volunteer work in the Vishas of Buenos Aires, she always searched for more. More culture. More adventure. More excitement. Her experiences helped form her, and she moved further and further away from the child that she was, and closer and closer towards the woman that she is destined to become.
She was on a journey.
The pages of her passport were gradually filled. She is eternally proud of every stamp; from the illegitimate entry to Egypt, to the Russian visa that took months to obtain, each one represents a unique and special journey. She has learnt from her travels; on an intellectual level, on a cultural level and on a spiritual or emotional level. She may not entirely understand the reason behind the Indian head wobble or the Greek's obsession with Ouzo, but she gets it. People come and go, some she stays in touch with, others she doesn't. You're not the first man she's ever met, nor will you be the last. But if she has chosen you, know that you are special.
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She loves you.
The girl who travels always has itchy feet. From a weekend break in Pompeii, to a week in Jordan, or a month backpacking across China, she is always planning the next adventure. She has trouble finding the correct coins in her purse because there are so many different currencies in there and she sacrifices her evenings to Trip Advisor, Google Maps and her Lonely Planet guides. But don't begrudge her, because she is now planning adventures for the two of you. She wants to travel, but she wants you to be there with her, exploiting every moment together, as if it were your last. However, don't leave her hanging- after all, as you can see she is a planner, and she likes to know that before long, she will be going somewhere!
Ask her.
She's ecstatic, but not about the big white dress or the engagement party; within hours of getting engaged she's already planning the ultimate honeymoon. If there's one time in your life to plan a special holiday, this is it. She dreams of sari shopping in Sri Lanka, donning her flower garland in Hawaii or gorilla trekking in Uganda. The girl who travels isn't your typical fiance- unlike most bride-to-be's, she isn't excited by 'Don't tell the Bride' or 'Say yes to the Dress', she's excited by the prospect of sharing the rest of her life, and her adventures, with you.
Marry her.
The girl who travels is inquisitive, curious, and intelligent; after all travel is the best form of education. Evening conversations will never cease to interest you, her worldly perspective, passion and enthusiasm putting new light on even the most mundane every day topics. Her culinary skills are second-to-none, from pad thai, to falafel, to home made Cajun chicken burgers and chips, she brings the world's best cuisine to your plate every night. She series links every travel show there is, introducing you to the hilarious 'Travel Man' or Levison Wood's dramatic 'Waking the Himilayas'. But don't worry, she is also happy to hand the remote over to you, because from researching prospective trips, to writing her travel blog, she always has a long list of things to do.
Settle down.
What does 'settling down' mean to her? Not what it means to most people. Just because she has a ring on her finger, doesn't mean that she wants to live that 9-5 life that she spent her adolescent years planning to escape. She wants to get a mortgage and buy a house, but then rent it out so that you can both pursue job opportunities in Dubai, the USA or Australia. She wants to look after her body, but not by joining a gym. She wants to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, trek the Andes and go mountain biking through Yosemite. She doesn't want to buy new carpets, candlesticks or car stereos. Instead she saves for the next adventure, re-naming your joint savings account 'the travel fund'.
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Never be bored.
With the girl who travels, you will live a life full of adventures, but also know that you are in safe hands. From the time that she lost all of her money to a rogue taxi driver in Vietnam, to writing, marketing and eventually making money from the travel book she has published, you can be assured that your finances will always be looked after. Having slept in a wide range of accommodations, from caravans, to jungle huts to the back row of economy on a 'no-frills' flight, she knows the meaning of a good night's sleep, and will ensure that your home, wherever it may be, is warm and welcoming. Travel is not always easy and her experiences have taught her to deal with difficult situations and the meaning of perseverance, so she can put up with you when you are late home, you don't do the washing up or stink out the toilet! Throughout her travels she has been a nurse, a teacher and a mother. And one day, she will inspire your children in the way that has inspired you.
Live happily never after.
In theory, the public representatives and service providers should have the capacity and political responsibility to make choices and respond to all local and national needs and demands.
However, the reality in most cases is that of uniformity of approach based on conventional norms and values. Consequently, the political representatives and 'professionals' at various levels, while 'celebrating' diversity, argue that variety create 'anomalies'.
It is this cultural norm that defines ethnic minorities as an 'anomaly' as well as the premise of any specific provisions for this client group. For example, the race relations legislation confirmed and strengthened this in 1960s and created a structural mechanism of control and containment of ethnic minority aspirations through race relations bodies and advisers, using the dynamics of resources and age old strategy of 'divide and rule'.
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The mid 1980s demonstrated the horrors of Section 11 community consultations that were being experienced by black/Asian people up and down the country. Not only did this process exposed the flawed and distorted premise of Section 11 funding* and its use to reinforce the problematic definition of black and Asian people but very importantly the irrelevance and insignificance of the race relations bodies and advisers and their equal opportunity policy counterparts in government/ local government establishments.
The national outcry against the invidious collusion of the race related bodies and personnel to maintain the structural status quo, discredited their existence finally.
However, the demise of the race relations industry saw the emergence of another industry to fill the gap - that is, the growth of ethnic minority-specific community organisations which claim to provide care and support to their respective communities through the institutionally defined and state funded initiatives.
This suits well to the institutions and authorities as the marginalized community organizations not only take the pressure off them but work as buffer between the communities and the institutions. Moreover, in many cases the government hand-outs (grants) to the organisations help to glean the community feelings and attitudes in order to exercise state control as indicated by the government's discredited 'Prevent' strategy.
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As far as one knows, there is no credible national research to evaluate the impact of these community organizations on the quality of life of the targeted ethnic minority communities, given that they mostly deal or give an illusion to deal with the effects rather than addressing the cause. Similarly, there is no evaluation of the effectiveness of same race officers or representatives in looking after and dealing with their respective communities.
While many organizations invite complaints of inequality, discrimination, hate crimes or Islamophobia which primarily helps them to fulfil their funding criteria, they lack the ability and conviction to address 'why' such inadequacies - for example, the dynamics of racism - even after experiencing what happened during the last London mayor election or during the EU referendum campaign. No courage to question why racial harassment has been subsumed under 'hate crime'!
With the exception of a few, hard to find Muslim community organizations that publicize tackling Islamophobia joining hands with non-Muslim active national pressure groups rigorously addressing racism, Islamophobia etc as confirmed by many recent marches and rallies in London.
Furthermore, some of the ethnic minority community organizations are quite happy to go along with what once Hazel Blears wished to rename ethnic minority groups along US lines because such marginalization enhances the organisations chances of securing special identity and specific recognition. Ms Blears, then head of a government commission on how to better integrate minorities, said that she would ask whether they would rather be termed "British-Asian", or "Indian-British" rather than "Muslim" or "Asian".
Apparently to please, many ethnic minority collusive community organizations, including some Muslim organizations, fail to assert that we can do without adding this or that to 'British' and need to send out a strong message that we might look different and have different needs but we are all British, and that we wish a united and not a divided Britain with many brands of British people.
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Also, not enough challenge to those, whoever they may be, whose interests are not well served if integration is really achieved since it damages their chances to acquire marginal funding, recognition and socio-political positions, and who ride on the back of the 'minorities' for political and other gains, showing no concern for giving a message that once an immigrant, always an immigrant.
Taking the example of Islamophobia that has significantly increased recently and is now a major national problem, there seems to be a competition between certain Muslim organizations (out of about 90 such organizations) for reporting these incidents to them, though without assuring any measurable outcome. This dependency model is justified by claiming that Muslim community feels more confidence in reporting these incidents to their own community leaders/outlets - a sort of separatist mind.
On the other hand, an empowerment model would be to encourage reporting the incidents of Islamophobia to the police, local authorities, MPs, borough Councillors etc who have the responsibility to address these, and not only this but they could also address why people might lack confidence in reporting these incidents to them.
It would be sound to expect that the intervening ethnic minority community groups, including the Muslim groups, would follow the example of the mainstream pressure groups to build on their cumulative, cooperative and collective response signifying the community's experience, their learning, their thinking and above all their solidarity. Therefore, they would not seek funding by any external bodies and by definition would be constituted to work for social justice, using individual, collective and communal resources to support their work.
Following both Brexit and the US Election something has struck me: My social media intake is extremely partisan.
I know I am not alone in this. The notion that we seek out journalistic sources which confirm our own views and coddle our biases is not novel, but conforming to it squanders the potential utility of social media as a democratic tool.
Brexit and the US election have demonstrated the stark divisions within the UK and the US. The results almost perfectly compartmentalised each nation into the left and right wing; the urban and the rural; the liberal and the conservative. Most worryingly, they are scornful divisions without dialogue or empathy, and sometimes entirely lacking in comprehension.
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It is possible that modern society itself has become more fractured. One could posit any number of reasons why this might be, but it is puzzling that in an age where social media offers the opportunity to bridge gaps and better understand each other, we are all becoming more and more entrenched.
There has been a lot of political outrage on Facebook, Twitter etc. concerning these seismic political events, and there is doubtless great value in people voicing their concerns so freely, but it is extremely rare to see anything conciliatory. It is validation, not conversation, which is invariably sought.
That outrage often appears to be rooted in an inability to understand where the other side is coming from. If we reach a point at which we pose solely rhetorical questions and purport to engage only for affirmation, discarding entirely other viewpoints, we reach a point of no return, and we damage irreparably our ability to work together in a functioning democratic system.
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"How can she vote for a mysognist?" "How can he vote for a criminal?" In the immortal words of Kanye West, that's a pretty bad way to start a conversation.
There is no obvious solution. Listening, reflecting and identifying would help, as would welcoming debate rather than shutting it down with incredulity or insult.
But we also have the opportunity to use social media to broaden our horizons. If not to adopt other viewpoints, then at least to open our minds to them so that we can better understand each other.
Below are a spread of top Twitter handles you might not already follow from a variety of political leanings. Please follow some or all of them, and add any further suggestions you have in comments below. You will disagree with a lot of what they say, but that's precisely the point.
The Conservative Voice (US)
@MichelleMalkin - Author, blogger, policital commentator
@benshapiro - Political commentator, author, radio talk show host, and attorney
The Libertarian Voice (US)
@GovGaryJohnson - That Aleppo moment was unfortunate, but he gave a great account of his policies on the Freakonomics podcast
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@MaryAnastasiaOG - Mary O'Grady, Wall Street Journal Columnist and relentless President Obama critic
The Liberal Voice (US)
@TrevorNoah - Host of The Daily Show and hilarious political commentator
@DrJillStein - US Green Party Candidate for President, doctor, environmentalist
The Conservative Voice (UK)
@MrHarryCole - The Sun's Westminster Correspondent. An essential account from the heart of Westminster
@DouglasCarswell - UKIP's only MP and staunch brexiteer
The Liberal Voice (UK)
@ChukaUmunna - Labour MP for Streatham and former Shadow Business Secretary. Ran for Labour leadership before dropping out for personal reasons
Teaching meditation in schools is becoming a recognised technique to improve mental health amongst students. Educators across the world are realising the significant benefits for students, schools and communities. Research combined from different studies around the world has shown that meditation in schools can have positive effects on student's personal well-being, as well as their social and academic skills.
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I spoke to Rodolphe Sinimale, a change-maker and social entrepreneur from Reunion Island to find out more about bringing meditation to schools. Reunion is a French island in the Indian Ocean just East of Madagascar. With a high unemployment rate, particularly among the young, mindfulness in education is an integral tool enabling the island's future generation to be equipped to deal with growing social tensions and difficulty finding work.
Rodolphe spoke to me about two pioneering projects taking place in Reunion in state schools, one in a middle school, college Hubert De-Lisle and one in a primary school l'Ecole Primaire Antoine Lucas.
The aim is to use meditation to help the students to cultivate loving-kindness, emotional intelligence, focus and compassion. For Rodolphe, and the community of teachers and leaders backing this project, it's important to be active in making a positive contribution to society and the world around us. When I asked him why he wanted to bring meditation to schools he spoke of one night in Madagascar where he was threatened by armed men, he said "when faced with your own mortality, we realise what's important, and that's taking care of each other. Since then I try to cultivate compassion and loving kindness every day, even if it's not easy, and meditation is really a great way to do that."
Rodolphe says that the workshops and programme itself took about "two years to get off the ground as it takes a lot of planning, organisation and, mostly, energy to develop. You also need leaders with vision, wisdom and courage to make that much needed step." Pascal Chabernaud is the director of innovation at the French Ministry of Education (l'Education Nationale) and it's thanks to him that the mindfulness project was welcomed to schools in Reunion. Pascal is aware of the important role teacher's play in a student's development and his dream for education is that it should be open, shared, collaborative and positive.
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The first time Rodolphe went into school to teach meditation he could feel his heart beating fast with nerves but he said that right away he saw the "light, simplicity, enthusiasm and creativity" of the students which deeply inspired him.
Through the meditation classes, significant changes appeared very quickly in the children. For example their ability to say "I'm angry" and accept the emotion, instead of getting angry and finding it challenging to articulate how they are feeling. It was also noticed that there was an improvement to their ability to be present and collaborate with one another.
Rodolphe comments "it was beautiful to watch them transforming." He does notice that there are certain challenges with working within institutions and the education system but says that "there is so much suffering in today's world, we must act and try to have a positive impact in any way that we can."
At the middle school, college Hubert Delisle, meditation workshops are offered to students in years 7 and 9. According to head teacher, Lionel Mailfert, a revolution is underway. He says that he is driven by the desire to "offer students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, a practice that allows them to be happy, to live in harmony with others and to succeed in their learning."
Since such a practice has been introduced, some students have even seen their marks go up. During the meditation, the students are invited to allow and accept thoughts to come and go without judging them. They are asked to bring awareness to their breathing and alongside the meditation itself they also get to study into the biology of the brain and how stress has an impact on the body.
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Long-term objectives of bringing meditation to the school is to stop bullying, to create a safer space and a more peaceful school life, as well as developing students' self-confidence. Students and teachers have noticed the benefits for themselves. Lucas, in year 7 said "It helps us to relax, de-stress and reflect" and Ms Delebarre noted "the students are less stressed, it's much calmer and they find it easier to listen."
The programmes underway in Reunion are gaining interest from other schools and teachers, as well as from community leaders. It's clear how much difference a handful of people can make to get a movement started.
The movement in Reunion was part inspired by a quote from the Dalai Lama "If every 8 year old in the world is taught meditation, we will eliminate violence from the world within one generation." Some might argue that this is an idealistic and simplistic viewpoint but the real and experienced benefits of students and teachers in Reunion Island definitely show that meditation can positively impact students and hopefully in turn, the world around us.
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One of the mindfulness exercises: planting the loving kindness seed, and taking care of it everyday with compassionate thoughts
Rodolphe and his dog Sushi photographed by Stephanie Lorente
The Washington Post via Getty Images
For all of the thousands of news stories on Donald Trump's presidential win, it's fair to say there's very little clarity on what his presidency is likely to mean for human rights. Either within the USA, or around the world. We're all working with scant evidence and a lot of speculation.
However, here are a few preliminary thoughts. On the one hand, it's hard not to point out that things look bleak. Mr Trump's campaign has been marred by some appalling comments and some outright poisonous rhetoric. His remarks about Muslims in the USA, about Mexicans, about women - these have been disgraceful. Not only should the President-elect ensure that these calumnies are never repeated, but there should also be some level of acknowledgement that these were totally unacceptable. There's little chance the hurt caused by these remarks will be removed, but it's nevertheless vital that a future Trump presidency tries to establish itself as one that represents the entire US population. And indeed one that faces the wider world with a clear record of recognising and protecting the rights of every person within its borders.
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Overseas Trump will largely be judged by how the United States responds to the world's major challenges. Syria is likely to dominate. Here things again look extremely unpromising. His campaign trail praise for Vladimir Putin's presidency - including admiration for Mr Putin's "great control over his country" - bodes ill for hopes that the USA might increase pressure on Russia to stop bombing civilian targets. Or indeed that Russia can be persuaded to use its influence with Damascus to end its own indiscriminate barrel bombings while allowing in aid as a first step to some kind of negotiated end to the carnage.
Meanwhile, there are numerous prisoners of conscience languishing in Russian jails who might despair at the thought of Trump's praise for the Kremlin's "great control" being translated into a US-Russian policy which thinks little of their plight.
As with so many of his remarks, Mr Trump may have been freewheeling when he affected an authoritarian love-in with his (soon to be) Russian counterpart. But the grave reality of power must be very different. It must mean that a President Trump will be prepared to speak up for persecuted journalists in St Petersburg or for the beleaguered civilian population huddled into cellars beneath the devastated streets of Aleppo.
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This is the great challenge. Can Mr Trump, once ensconced in the Oval Office, reinvent himself as a serious politician, a statesman? One who understands the gravity of every decision, of every pronouncement? Where once he talked about "bombing the shit" out of ISIS, a future President Trump will need instead to rein in a US-led coalition operation that has already killed hundreds upon hundreds of civilians in Syria and Iraq. Where once he indulged in crude objectifying remarks about women, as president he will need instead to reaffirm the rights of women across the United States (and beyond) to be treated equally and with dignity, and to have proper control over their lives and their bodies. And where once he brazenly praised waterboarding, a far more restrained President Trump will need instead to accept the illegality and self-defeating nature of torturous interrogation techniques.
Unquestionably, this is all a very tall order. And of course, there's was already plenty of work to be done to improve the USA's very tarnished human rights record, including with Guantanamo Bay, the lack of accountability over CIA torture, the USA's continued use of the death penalty and its shockingly gung-ho approach to selling weapons to a long list of countries with an appalling record of misusing them.
I could go on. Essentially, though, the problem is two-fold. First, the USA's human rights record is already poor in manifold ways and urgently needs improvement. And second, Trump's turbo-charged rhetoric suggests an impatience with the rule of law and international standards.
In the end we have to wait and see. On the campaign trail Donald Trump once said "everything is negotiable". This might mean he's persuadable when it comes to things like respecting Supreme Court rulings and international law. Conversely, it might signal some kind of US detachment from the global rules-based system. Either way we at Amnesty will be watching very closely, supporting grassroots activists and campaigners right across the United States, and marshalling all our resources to ensure that universal human rights are respected and defended.
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The UK employment tribunal's ruling that Uber's UK drivers can't be classified as 'self-employed' has important implications for the techno-optimistic politics of innovation says Futurice business director Professor Risto Sarvas.
The digital zeitgeist has it that governments should support and listen to new business innovators and start-ups. Technologists at the cutting edge of innovation see the future, unlike grey, outdated politicians many of whom probably can't tell a hashtag from a hash brown. Regulation is uninspiring and bureaucracy hampers innovation. Can we please allow digital disruption to just happen?
Can we?
Yes the world is changing fast. It's obvious that digital innovation operates on a more accelerated timetable than the time it takes to change laws and regulations. But is that a good enough reason to place technologists and innovators in the driving seat? What kind of a society will they create? What kind of politics will 'disruptive innovations' introduce?
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The UK employment tribunal's recent verdict on Uber sheds some light on this issue. The judges decided that Uber's UK drivers can't be classified as 'self-employed'. In fact, they were scathing about Uber's attempts to claim otherwise stating:"the notion that Uber in London is a mosaic of 30,000 small businesses linked by a common 'platform' is to our minds faintly ridiculous".
There are still a few appeal courts before a final decision is reached. Regardless of the eventual outcome, this early ruling is a step change for the politics of innovation.
First, the decision highlight the business model of the gig economy where workers are treated as self-employed entrepreneurs, rather than employees, with brands such as Uber taking commission on their earnings. Just as a big corporation hires consultants, or a homeowner calls a plumber to fix the pipes, in the gig economy there is no employment contract because after all, it's only a gig.
In the UK, Uber has around 40,000 drivers, so to date this approach will arguably have saved Uber employment costs (holiday pay and the living wage) 40,000 times over. Replicate this across the 66 countries in which Uber operates and you gain some insight into the business model behind a company valued at $66 billion.
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This sky-high valuation partly explains why Uber takes centre stage in the politics of innovation: it's the poster boy for digital disruption. If digital innovation hype is to believed, Uber isn't just an elegant service or a great user experience, it's a perfect example of how outdated business models could and should be overturned by smart digital services.
Is this a real concern? Is the hype around Uber and digital innovation impacting politics and policies?
In July a report by the Business Innovation and Skills Committee suggested that government should not use regulation to protect established industries from disruption by the likes of Uber and Airbnb . In other words, let the digital disruptors disrupt and bring with them new growth, new taxes, and new jobs. Anachronistic politicians and regulators should step aside. This hand-off approach places a lot of trust in technologists and innovators: have they done anything to earn it? To put it in another way, how many politicians would actively support a business framework which allowed companies to circumvent employer responsibilities for profit?
Industrial IoT (IIoT) is projected to be worth $151bn by 2020, so it's a pretty big deal. As a relatively young industry, the topics being hotly debated now in IIoT are set to shape its entire future. It was my pleasure to be part of the recent IoT Solutions World Congress (IoTSWC) and it's great to see how much the industry has grown in just a year, and also how conversations have developed.
Here's insight into three topics that are shaping the IIoT industry at the moment:
Data ethics
There's a lot of grey areas when it comes to the ethics surrounding data collection and analysis. Though much of the data collected through IoT devices is anonymised metadata, it still begs the question: What do businesses do with it all and who does it actually belong to?
In a panel discussion hosted at the event around the topic of data ethics, David Blaszkowski, Managing Director of the Financial Services Collaborative, noted: "We should think about data ethics as an industry-wide obligation, the IoT industry has the chance from the beginning to do the right thing."
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The truth is, more transparency is needed about what data is collected from individuals, and what is then done with it to create smarter products and services. Derek O'Halloran of the World Economic Forum made an interesting suggestion: that each company could actually ethics panel to debate and guide them through their data-related decisions. As O'Halloran noted, ultimately, as with any industry, it's important to consider what's good for society and the individuals, not just for business.
Testbeds
The simple truth is, we can't know the effects of technological developments in the IIoT until they are tested for. If we put the industrial internet to the test, we're able to answer the concerns of business leaders and the public about what the future will really look like and provide real-world examples.
This is why testbeds are increasingly playing a vital role in the industry. Interestingly, Richard Soley, executive director of the Industrial Internet Consortium, talked at length about the success of IIoT testbeds, and we saw some exciting real-world examples in the event's dedicated testbed area, such as: a smart airline baggage management solution developed by GE, Oracle, Infosys and M2MI to reduce baggage losses and damage at the airport, and Telefonica's work with Fiware to make real-time measurements of water quality in fountains.
Security
Frequently cited as a key challenge in the implementation of IIoT, there's a huge question mark over whether enough is being done in the area of cybersecurity. Given the recent DDoS attack that took down Twitter, Netflix and Spotify, caused in part by by IoT devices, the topic remains more hotly debated than ever.
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Image Credit: Levy Bittencourt
It was Singles' Day on 11th November - a reason for many Chinese people to celebrate their individual status. Here are ten very worthwhile lessons we can learn from my favourite heroines in literature:
1) Have pride in yourself
"There is a stubbornness about me that never can bear to be frightened at the will of others. My courage always rises at every attempt to intimidate me."
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Elizabeth Bennett - Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
One of the most well-loved women in English literature, Elizabeth is quick-witted and honest, allowing her to rise above the often spiteful society she is surrounded by. Her determination to marry only for love collides with her equally fierce loyalty to her family.
2) Be discerning
'Excuse me, I don't like people just because they are handsome.'
Hermione Granger - Harry Potter by J.K.Rowling
Hogwarts' student Hermione is a clever and level-headed girl who soon proves to Harry Potter that she can always be relied on. She is very compassionate; valuing friends and ignoring bullies.
3) Don't settle for less than you deserve
"Well, what I mean is that I shouldn't mind being a bride at a wedding, if I could be one without having a husband. But since a woman can't show off in that way by herself, I shan't marry - at least yet."
Bathsheba Everdene - Far From The Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy
Bathsheba is the enchanting female protagonist of this story, written nearly 150 years ago, and is truly independent both in spirit and financially. She shuns the idea of marriage if it isn't for love and is determined to decide her own destiny.
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4) Love yourself
"I'm not against love at all, I love love! I just think that having a partner is not a prerequisite to living happily ever after.'"
Chloe Usher in Happily by me!
Chloe has had enough of being asked why she is 'still single' and told she will never know what love is until she has had children. In a light-heartedly subversive move, she challenges the notion of settling down and marries herself, demonstrating how you must first love yourself before looking for it elsewhere.
5) Follow your dreams
"And you will be quite on your own when you do all this. There is no academy where you can learn to be yourself; there is no line manager slowly urging you toward the correct answer. You are midwife to yourself, and will give birth to yourself, over and over, in dark rooms, alone."
Johanna Morrigan - How To Build A Girl by Caitlin Moran
Hilarious teenager Johanna from Wolverhampton is struggling with puberty, poverty and trying to develop an identity that fits. Although hyper-aware of her own failings, she fiercely guards her own individuality and successfully pursues her dreams of being a rock 'n' roll music journalist.
6) Listen to your instincts
"Keep in mind that I'm crazy, won't you?"
Lisbeth Salander - The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
LIsbeth is a fearless and skilled hacker, with a disdain for conformity and an unorthodox appearance. Her brusque language and withdrawn personality often means she is misjudged by others but they are soon proved wrong as her intelligence and foresight finally bring her the freedom she craves.
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7) Find satisfaction in what you have
"I can live alone, if self-respect, and circumstances require me so to do. I need not sell my soul to buy bliss. I have an inward treasure born with me, which can keep me alive if all extraneous delights should be withheld, or offered only at a price I cannot afford to give."
Jane Eyre - Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Narrator of this novel, Jane, is an honest and plain young girl who is subjected to oppression and hardship but repeatedly succeeds in asserting herself and maintaining principles of justice and dignity. She values intellectual and emotional fulfillment and strongly advocates social equality.
8) Embrace your originality
"Never do anything by halves if you want to get away with it. Be outrageous. Go the whole hog. Make sure everything you do is so completely crazy it's unbelievable..."
Matilda Wormwood - Matilda by Roald Dahl
Matilda is a young girl with a genius intellect and a passion for reading. Her parents don't recognise her abilities and often ignore her. She discovers she has psychokinetic powers and uses them play practical jokes to her advantage.
9) Fight the good fight
"No one will forget me. Not my look, not my name. Katniss. The girl who was on fire."
Katniss Everdeen - The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Katniss is a hunter and survivor who is forced to take part in a televised fight to the death. She soon becomes a symbol of rebellion against the oppressive Capitol.
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10) Hold on to your optimism
"Everyone has inside of him a piece of good news. The good news is that you don't know how great you can be! How much you can love! What you can accomplish! And what your potential is!"
Anne Frank - The Diary of A Young Girl by Anne Frank
Jason Cotterrell, MD, Exterion Media
No matter where you look, all the signs point towards Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising competing with the dominant players in the media landscape in 2017. According to the latest Advertising Association and Warc figures, ad spend in digital OOH has grown 30.5% in the last year alone, demonstrating mounting confidence from advertisers in how digital technology is transforming the effectiveness of the medium. Weve come a long way but now, more than ever, is the time for OOH to invest heavily in its future and lead from the front.
The shifting perceptions of OOH as a more impactful and accountable medium are largely reflective of our investment in data and technology over recent years. Of course, the use of data in Out-of-Home advertising is by no means a new phenomenon. Even the most traditional formats, billboards and posters, have long called upon demographic information to ensure ads are strategically positioned in precise geographic locations and able to deliver localised messaging at crucial decision-making moments. That said, the increased connectivity of our world in recent years has brought with it increasing volumes of data to inform campaigns. Weve come a long way in terms of our capabilities, but, in order to compete in todays complex media ecosystem, the Out-of-Home industry must continue to innovate.
Out-of-Home advertising needs to find ways to collate and utilise the wealth of information available in the same way as its pure play digital media peers. This demands a complete digital transformation of the sector, not just in terms of its screen displays but also in terms of its ability to leverage data, from collection and analysis through to implementation and evaluation. Hello London, the new Out-of-Home media brand launched by Exterion Media and Transport for London last month, sets a benchmark. Placing insight and audiences at the heart of its integrated offering, Hello London marks the beginning of what will be an exciting future for the Outdoor advertising industry.
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Outdoor advertising is no longer just about static posters or outdated planning modes. We are moving to a place where automated systems are creating more efficiency, offering flexibility and agility that will allow advertisers to create more contextual and relevant campaigns for consumers. Whats more, at a time of increasing advertising fatigue amongst consumers, weve injected something new and fresh into the market that rivals the likes of TV and beats online video in terms of engagement and visibility.
A recent study we conducted with Bournemouth University and Cog Research The Engagement Zone - using skin conductance response and eye tracking tests on over a hundred commuters, found that individuals actively seek out advertising as they pass through the London Underground. The majority found them a welcome distraction. Engagement levels with advertising on the Tube were also found to match that of TV advertising at 16% and far surpass that of online video which sits at 9%.
Interestingly, 4 in 5 people who stated that they didnt like social media ads or TV ads said they did, in fact, like ads on London Underground. Given that the latest IAB figures report that 1 in 5 UK adults now use adblocking software, OOH is certainly offering a consumer-friendly communications solution for advertisers. Rather than being an intrusive and unwelcome irritation, Outdoor advertising is a medium that genuinely adds value to the environment, and consumers clearly recognise this.
Now as far as the protests are concerned, it is impossible to orchestrate such large scale demonstrations in any central manner, and whoever has been involved in any protest movement knows quite well how hard it is to assemble individuals for any cause, even for a fraction of the size. Such demonstrations, if not spontaneous, require weeks and months of preparations and a wide coalition of organizations to coordinate and orchestrate it. The only exception to this is by totalitarian regimes that have an unlimited resource to hoist such a display of support at a moment's notice.
Needless to say, some of the claims that rich sponsors have paid protesters to do so are utterly laughable. All you have to do is calculate the enormous price tag for that and the payroll system that would need to be implemented if it was to be done covertly. You could hire a company to bring extras on, as Trump has done at the beginning of his campaign, but not at this scale.
These protests have drawn criticism by many on the right as being divisive and undemocratic, because they are protesting the fair and square election of a president. The claim is people should give Trump a chance to act before criticism is applied. The critiques fail to understand that the protests are in response to the cumulative rhetoric Trump has spewed over the last year, not as a response to what he is doing, as he has not done anything yet.
Trump, as opposed to his rival has made divisiveness, and attack against all kinds of minorities, the cornerstone of his campaign, and it is his responsibility to make amends towards these frightened and freaked out populations, whose very safety and well-being is now shaken. So far, aside from a very vague "Let's heal the wounds" call, he has not done anything towards that end.
It is an utterly insensitive position to say "give the man a chance". It can only be the position of someone who does not feel threatened by the attitudes and positions Trump has presented so far. It is like saying to protesters of Mussolini, "wait, don't be unfair, let him work first!". You cannot ignore the fact that the man has boldly made his position clear up to this moment. Why would anyone work from the assumption that he would make a 180 degree turn now that he is in power, and embrace all the people he has attacked earlier.
The fact that Trump has put Mike Pence as his VP and chair of his transition team, a man who has the best creds in Congress in hate towards Gay people, is enough evidence he is not looking to change his lack of care towards the gay community. His consideration of Sarah Palin for the secretary of Interior affairs, a woman that has voiced her opinion that the EPA should be disbanded, is evidence enough that he is uninterested in protecting the environment. His consideration of the guy behind BreitBart Communications is enough of a hint that he is fine with people in the White Supremacy movement at the expense of minorities.
The onus of distancing himself from the things he said and implied up to now, sits squarely on Trump's shoulders. People are protesting those intentions, and they have the right to do so, as well as the right not to see Trump as their president based solely on the intentions he has put out. It is not their responsibility to take a leap of faith and assume he would be a changed man from now on, especially since he has not made any attempt at all to assure them this was just campaign rhetoric, and not his blueprint. Someone that runs on hate and divisiveness clearly takes on this responsibility on himself when applying for a job that requires representation of all Americans, not just those who voted for him.
In a city like New Orleans, where great food is the norm rather than the exception, Ralph Brennan's Red Fish Grill's staying power - it has thrived in the French Quarter for 20 years and earned a spot among the Best Seafood Restaurants in America by Travel + Leisure - is a tribute to its kitchen. Executive chef Austin Kirzner, a native New Olreanian, has deep roots in local cooking. Steaming pots of gumbo and jambalaya are among his earliest culinary memories. His local sources provide the freshest fin fish, shellfish and crustaceans, and thanks to his wife's brothers, who own Covey Rise Farms on Lake Pontchartrain's Northshore, he is able to source their fresh tomatoes, squash, greens, and citrus.
What drew you to become a chef?
I think I've always known I was going to be a chef - I started working in restaurants in high school and truly fell in love with the industry and the culture. When I went to culinary school and chased my dream of becoming a chef, I never really thought I would get this far.
Any early memories of cooking?
I remember helping my grandparents cook in their kitchens when I was young. I have three children now and they enjoy helping me cook. I can't help to get nervous that they will burn themselves--the kitchen can be a dangerous place - but I guess they will find out at a young age if they love cooking because it comes with the territory in our house!
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Red Fish has been a French Quarter staple now for nearly twenty years. How do simultaneously keep favorites up to standard while at the same time keeping the menu fresh and interesting?
I feel extremely lucky to be at the helm of a restaurant that has been thriving for 20 years. Red Fish Grill has always been known as a great place to get fresh local seafood, and maintaining that tradition is key to its continued success. The now iconic dishes like BBQ oysters and wood grilled redfish and double chocolate bread pudding continue to be menu must-haves, but we are always striving to try out new items and techniques to keep the menu fresh. It's easy to just hang our hats on our signature dishes, but I want to be relevant in a culinary landscape that is ever-growing and evolving.
Can you share any tips on finding great food in the city? Any hidden gems? Perhaps a Lebanese butcher, a Cajun spice market, a crawfish joint. (Something the average visitor might not otherwise discover.)
New Orleans is an iconic food city. If you are in the French Quarter you have to experience Breakfast at Brennan's, but I always encourage visitors to venture into different neighborhoods and explore the outskirts of the city. I like to sneak over to a place called Salvo's in Belle Chase -they have great seafood that is caught within 20 miles of the restaurant.
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When I visited recently, I tried the snapper ceviche infused with coconut milk and topped with shredded coconut, a dish you had just created. Can you tell us how you conceive of and try out new dishes?
At Red Fish Grill we are trying to utilize the entire fish - from head to fin. We use the bones for stock and we use anything that doesn't have the correct weight in dishes like ceviche. Beyond our signature dishes, we are committed to keeping our menu seasonal - for example you will only see crawfish on our menu if it's fresh and in season.
When you're not working, what's your favorite go-to meal at home or out?
When I'm at home I like to cook for friends - so I really like to do boils in the backyard! This usually involves freshly caught crawfish, shrimp or crabs - whatever is fresh that I can get my hands on.
Are there any ingredients that you haven't had a chance to work with yet but would love to incorporate?
Being from Louisiana you get a change to work with great exotic ingredients, but I would still like to continue to branch out and work with some different seafood from the coasts like skate or cold-water mollusks.
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Photo credit: Katie G. Nelson
Having power is to be empowered. Electricity--power, light, warmth--is a proxy for social justice. Segal Family Foundation partner We Care Solar is bringing justice to communities across Sub-Saharan Africa by collaborating with exemplary local organizations. We are honored to learn of one such story, written by We Share Solar Program Manager Wendy Cross and We Care Solar Co-Founder and Executive Director Dr. Laura Stachel.
Imagine that you are studying for one of the most important exams of your life. Your score will determine if you go on to secondary school and whether you can receive financial assistance. Now picture trying to study for this exam night after night....in darkness. If you have a working flashlight with batteries or candles, consider yourself fortunate. If not, your day ends the moment the sun goes down.
Photo credit: Brian Inganga
This situation is pervasive around the world: globally, more than 1 billion people lack access to modern electricity.
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We Share Solar aims to alleviate this problem by providing clean, sustainable solar light and power for rural schools and community spaces in East Africa. We Share Solar is the educational program of the non-profit organization We Care Solar. Our experiential learning program enables American youth to link technology with humanitarian service through building We Share Solar Suitcases--high-quality solar electric systems assembled as part of a project-based learning STEM curriculum. Student-built Solar Suitcases are donated to youth in energy-scarce regions of the world and installed in schools and community centers. Students are exposed to engineering with a purpose and develop a sense of themselves as global citizens. We work with passionate partners who identify sites for our life-changing technology. We Share Solar has enjoyed rich collaborations with Segal Family Foundation grantees, helping us deliver sustainable light and power to underserved youth.
Photo credit: Brian Inganga
We Share Solar and Kakenya Center for Excellence worked together this past August to install ten Solar Suitcases in three schools across the rural Kilgoris region of Kenya. We first met founder Kakenya Ntaiya when both of our organizations were honored through CNN Heroes. Kakenya marveled at the We Share Solar Suitcase program and described the need for reliable solar lighting at rural schools. Kakenya Center worked closely with We Share to facilitate the Solar Suitcase donations and placements not just at their own all-girls boarding school campus, but also at two neighboring public primary schools.
The three schools that received Solar Suitcases now have reliable classroom lighting for early morning and evening study sessions--especially important for students preparing for high school entrance exams. At Kakenya School, Solar Suitcases now light up a girls' dormitory serving over 180 students, four classrooms, and a multipurpose dining hall. In addition, the Solar Suitcases provide charging for mobile phones and electronic devices such as tablets, laptops, or e-readers.
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Photo credit: Brian Inganga
Although Kakenya School and neighboring Enoosaen Primary School are both connected to the power grid, the power is unreliable and frequently out for days at a time. This reality was highlighted on the day after we installed two Solar Suitcases at Kakenya School. The students were taking their customary beginning-of-term exam when a big thunderstorm knocked out power. The teachers moved the girls from darkened classrooms into the solar-lit dining hall, allowing students to work under bright light from the eight LED lamps we had installed.
At nearby Enoosaen and Mapashi schools, students wrote letters of appreciation for their new Solar Suitcases. Their letters tell of days when they would bring their desks outside for lessons because the classrooms were too dark, or use costly candles to aid in their early morning study. During our installation day, the 800-student school was abuzz with excitement, and students crowded around our program manager who read aloud from our new children's book about solar energy, "The Power of the Sun."
Photo credit: Brian Inganga
The need for reliable institutional lighting extends beyond schools in East Africa. In September, We Share Solar installed its first Solar Suitcase in a refugee camp through a partnership with Segal grantee Solidarity & Advocacy with Vulnerable Individuals in Crisis (SAVIC). This refugee-run organization promotes healthy, empowered communities by enhancing access to health care and education. The first Solar Suitcase in Kakuma Camp is helping the SAVIC team stay connected by charging mobile phones and Internet modems. The LED lights are improving nighttime security for refugee children. Soon, SAVIC hopes to use the Solar Suitcase to provide a safe place for evening study sessions. Photojournalist Brian Inganga remarked that although he has grown up in Kenya and worked in very low resourced areas, "my experience at the refugee camp made me realize the importance of freedom and light."
These programs are just the beginning. The demand for solar electricity to improve education possibilities in rural Kenya is high. We Share Solar is already planning additional installations in 2017 in partnership with the teams at Kakenya Center and SAVIC. We are inspired by the impact of a Solar Suitcase in places where it is most needed and highly valued as a community resource. Our programs in East Africa are growing--72 Solar Suitcases are already benefiting over 11,000 people in recipient communities. We attribute this success to passionate partners who are invested in improving opportunities for youth in their own communities.
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Former Democratic Presidential candidate, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., gestures as he speaks during the first day of the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia , Monday, July 25, 2016. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
There have always been two narratives about this election. One predicted what actually happened in the end, while the other missed the boat completely.
Narrative 1. Bernie Sanders represents the unachievable in American politics. Hillary Clinton is the candidate of experience and realism. Donald Trump is a temporary phenomenon, feeding on passions and resentments, not meant to last the duration. Trump's supporters are more economically privileged than Clinton and Sanders voters, and are motivated by pure racism and misogyny. The election is about the cultural values of tolerance, openness, and identity, therefore we must support Hillary. Anyone who doesn't support Hillary must be suspect of harboring racist and misogynist feelings themselves.
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Narrative 2. Bernie Sanders is offering necessary correctives, at the most minimal level, to the excesses of the neoliberal economy of the past forty years. Hillary Clinton represents the essence of said neoliberalism, embodying its worst practices, from trade to immigration. Donald Trump has tapped into real economic anxiety amongst those -- half of the country at least -- who have lost under neoliberal globalization. This election is about returning equal economic rights to all citizens. Only Bernie Sanders has the winning message for this explosive situation.
Everyone who propagated Narrative 1 -- which is nearly 100 percent of the liberal media, the intellectual community as a whole, and elite professionals -- got it wrong every step of the way. The utter failure of predictive power means that the model was flawed.
Those who believed in Narrative 2 -- which included a vanishingly small proportion of intellectuals -- got it right at every turn. Trump won, Hillary lost, and we are in for a very bad time, just as our model predicted. Zizek had it right, Michael Moore had it right, and I had been saying all along that this outcome was inevitable. I wrote back in May that Trump would win by pinning neoliberal failures squarely on Hillary's shoulders.
Essentially, those who chose Hillary over Bernie during the primaries, when we had a clear choice, voted for Trump, since Bernie was always the stronger candidate against Trump or any Republican general election candidate. The polls consistently proved it.
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The liberal elite, all during this campaign, showed its intolerant colors, mocking anyone who raised questions about Hillary's background and competence as inherently misogynist, sidelining questions of political economy in favor of preferred identity politics tropes, banning dissenters and skeptics of Narrative 1 from their websites and forums, questioning their very humanity. Even now -- in the wake of the Trump win -- they are refusing to accept their culpability in making the wrong choice by throwing up their hands and exclaiming: "I can't understand how this could have happened!"
On a Pacifica radio show on October 27, where I discussed the reasons why Trumpism had come into being and why I expected it to last well beyond the election regardless of the outcome, half the callers repeated the neoliberal Narrative 1, saying, in essence, that Trump supporters were facing undesirable economic fates because of their own lack of responsibility toward their personal lives. Why don't they get educated, why don't they get jobs, why don't they move to where the jobs are? And why wasn't I talking about the Access Hollywood tape -- apparently the paramount issue in this campaign? Why didn't I talk about Trump's misogyny, which was instantly disqualifying and branded his supporters too as falling in the same vein? This was from Pacifica listeners, presumably the most liberal audience in America!
But there was also the other half, believers of Narrative 2, who thought that the Democratic party had been suicidal by not choosing Bernie, and who understood the economic grievances of the "leftovers" who supported Trump on the Republican side and Bernie on the Democratic side. They were not falling for the moral righteousness of the liberal media.
What can we say now about the fate of the entities involved in this crash of an election, when the contradictions have so manifestly come to the fore?
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1. Is Neoliberalism Dead? Hardly. This is the ideology that survived 9/11, the presidency of George Bush Jr., and the Great Recession, with barely a scratch. But it has received its most serious blow yet (the first, less severe one, was Brexit), as its entire range of practices, from neoliberal trade benefiting large corporations to a kind of exploitative identity politics that favors internalization of neoliberal psychology, has come under attack from Trumpism. We shall see how neoliberalism responds and regroups, how it works through the Democratic party to find a different channel of expression than the Clintonian one.
2. Is the Democratic Party Dead? Given a clear progressive choice in the primaries, the Democratic party establishment went for the failed neoliberal candidate of war, inequality, and injustice. At the moment, the entire party stands discredited. It is not easy to write off a behemoth as powerful as this, but it is more vulnerable than it has been since the 1960s. The philosophy of catering to upwardly mobile professionals, exploiting immigrants in the neoliberal setup while simultaneously expounding their virtues, and constructing a facade of moral righteousness while ignoring the existence of poor people of any color, stands discredited. After their catastrophic loss in 2008, the Republicans went through one more cycle of doubling down, with Mitt Romney in 2012, before a populist revolution swept the establishment away. How long will it take the Democratic party as we knew it to end?
3. Is the Republican Party Dead? Clearly, it is not what it was before Trumpism, it is no longer the party of Reagan and other supply-siders. On paper at least Trumpism is virulently opposed to the principles of neoliberalism, around which Republicans, with minor differences on taxation and welfare and other policies, cohere with Democrats as a governing philosophy. To what extent will Trump put his anti-trade, anti-immigration, and anti-interventionist policies into practice? Even if he draws back on his stated goals, the genie is out of the bottle. The Republican party, exploiting cultural fears (exactly as the Democrats have done on the other side) while executing economic policies that benefit the rich, can no longer exist in its old form.
4. Is the Liberal Media Dead? One of the positives of this campaign is that despite relentless 24/7 propaganda about Trump, exaggerating his personal foibles while painting anyone not supportive of Hillary as a closet misogynist, racist, or even sexual predator, the message failed to get through. In the end, no one paid any attention. Those inside the elite bubble were persuaded that they were headed for victory, hearing nothing contrary in their own ecosphere, when they were in fact doomed. The people have shown that they can tune out this noise. The media has fragmented so much that only those who are already persuaded come within the ambit of any new message, so in essence they have pounded their way into their own irrelevance.
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Enough deaths, I guess. I want to say that this feels eerily, and gloomily, like the night of election 2000, when every idealistic hope that young people had constructed, in the wake of the Bill Bradley and Ralph Nader campaigns, vanished into thin air, never to be seen again.
We regressed massively at that time, all talk of privacy and individualism, community and preventive health care, reparations and debt forgiveness, and international justice adjudication, disappearing forever. In 2008, Obama, with control of both houses of Congress, could have immediately resolved the immigration issue once and for all, or alleviated the misery of those burdened by housing and student debt, but he followed a strictly neoliberal governing philosophy, catering only to the banks and big corporations. (In a way, election 2016 is payback from the white working-class for everything Obama failed to pursue as a possibility in his two terms.)
Now, in 2016, at a minimum, following the Sanders revolt, we should have been talking in the context of the next administration about a $20 minimum wage, free college, Medicare for all, and a liberal, humane, twenty-first century immigration policy to live up to our ideals. Instead, we are going to regress almost a century in our attitudes to corporations, migrants, working conditions, taxation, welfare, the environment, and healthcare. We should be talking at this point, a decade after the financial collapse, about a transcendent alternative to failed capitalist practices which are not in tune with current levels of science and technology, but instead we are backsliding at an apocalyptic pace toward primitive levels of discourse.
At each stage of crisis, neoliberalism has gifted us with a serious regression to the past. Now we face the most serious regression of all.
In the 1920s, facing another economic crisis, America -- unlike Europe -- chose the path of liberal universalism, a preliminary welfare state that admitted the existence of poverty and misery. This time, following Europe, we have chosen a proto-fascist, or at least extreme right-wing authoritarian, path. We can trace this deadly outcome directly to the inability of the governing elites to steadily refuse to do anything about extreme inequality; Clinton, during the primaries, mocked free college and single-payer healthcare, saying it would never happen. Even a rhetorical concession to a $15 minimum wage by the candidate of the elites was too much.
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Yesterday I was sitting in a restaurant in Nepal--7,500 miles away from my home in the USA--and had my first post-election encounter that I knew would eventually happen. A white woman from the USA asked me if I was Latina. I looked at her directly and said very firmly, "no I am not." I wasn't upset at her faux pas of asking me if I was Latina. But, I was upset because it is clear to me that the racial injustice has already begun. There are millions of people affected by this election who are terrified for their lives and their future right now. To be clear, I know I have not suffered nearly as much as other people being targeted right now. But, I have suffered enough to get just an idea of how they must be feeling right now. So, let me share my story with you and why we will not be silent about this issue.
The first 18 years of my life were spent in a predominately white town. In grammar school, I didn't look like most of the other children. I am mixed raced (my father immigrated from India and my mother is white) and from an early age, I knew that many of the other children at my school judged me for my skin color. I can still remember coming home from school crying and desperately wishing that I could change my skin color to be fair like my mother's. My self-portraits from school are a painful memory of this fact since they feature me having blonde hair and blue eyes -- not my brown skin and brown eyes.
Many children teased me as well. Two accounts that stand out for me are the following: The first happened when I was in 6th grade and was told to go back to the Indian reservation, which didn't even make sense considering I am not Native American. Still, that statement stung me and I felt even more desperate to fit in. However, one of the worst experiences I had was when I was in 8th grade after 9/11. Someone I considered a friend came up to me and asked if my dad was a terrorist. He taunted me and left me feeling unnerved. I went home and cried for hours after this account.
But, things got better for me. At 18, I left for college in Washington, DC. Upon my graduation in 2006 I packed my bags and started traveling and living abroad. It was during this time I could truly accept who I was as a person and no longer feared being different. I took pride in my brown skin and heritage. As I traveled to different countries I always felt so fortunate to be from the USA -- a country home to people from around the world each contributing different culture, customs and religions to our nation.
So, post-election, how do I feel?
Never in my life have I seen a woman rise and fight as valiantly and successfully for the presidency as Hillary Clinton did this year. Following Donald Trump's victory in the general election, he has quickly moved to staff his transition team with family members and other problematic staff members riddled with conflicts of interest.
Now is not the time to abandon your public support for women and minorities on social media. Do not wait until January to ask questions, demand accountability.
Hillary Clinton told us in her concession speech that democracy demands we accept the peaceful transfer of power enshrined in our Constitution.
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"...we don't just respect that, we cherish it. It also enshrines other things; the rule of law, the principle that we are all equal in rights and dignity, freedom of worship and expression. We respect and cherish these values too and we must defend them."
Since then, I have asked myself what a successful and lawful resistance to a new fascist regime would look like? What would it say about me if I did not resist?
Often I pass General George Washington's headquarters on my way into Harvard Square. My ancestors fought in the Lexington Alarm, making Boston the seat of the American Revolution. Today the Boston area is an elite academic powerhouse of thinkers who hone their crafts inside some of the world's best universities.
So why does Harvard Yard feel so silent and cold to me right now?
This quote from an article by Roberta W. Francis seems particularly relevant:
In 1776, Abigail Adams wrote to her husband John, "In the new code of laws, remember the ladies and do not put such unlimited power into the hands of the husbands." John Adams replied, "I cannot but laugh. Depend upon it, we know better than to repeal our masculine systems."
It has been 227 years since the U.S. Constitution was ratified by white male slave owners, but America has never elected a woman president. As of 2016, the presidency remains a boys club of mostly elite white men. Only once has America elected a black man to the Oval Office.
This is personal to me because my grandmother was born into a generation of women who did not necessarily have the right to vote. I was born during a time when no woman had ever sat on the US Supreme Court, where abortion and birth control were newly legal.
When Hillary Clinton harkened us back to the laws that our nation was founded on, I felt it appropriate to contemplate the fairness of a system that forgets that the first black man (Thurgood Marshall) was not appointed to the Supreme Court until 1968. In fact, SCOTUS would remain a boys club until Conservative favorite Sandra Day O'Connor was appointed to the bench in 1981.
What I remember vividly from my Reagan era childhood is the excitement of Justice O'Connor's appointment to SCOTUS, and the disappointment that followed after the Equal Rights Amendment was not ratified. I remember how controversial it was that my school had begun teaching a sex education curriculum that included women's bodies and birth control, and the shame that went with every mention of the female body in and outside the class. The LGBTQ community was encouraged to stay in the closet as the AIDS epidemic raged and privileged Republicans encouraged doctors oppose treatment on moral grounds. Nancy Reagan's "Just Say No" campaign supported a racist policy that sent thousands of convicted addicts to prison instead of treatment.
These were deadly and oppressive times that I do look back on nostalgically, nor do I accept our Constitution's failures without reservation. But this also why I think that the people most shocked by the outcome of Election 2016 were the men who thought they had been good feminists and that the fight for women's equality was over. It now seems soberingly clear to me that all the pollsters had to do was look at the portraits of the last 54 election winners to know that the establishment would fight back virulently to the notion of anyone except an elite white man being in the Oval Office.
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Whether it is possible to be a billionaire without being part of the establishment, I don't know. The problem is not only that Hillary Clinton was not elected in 2016, it is that America will be led by another unqualified wealthy white supremacist BECAUSE he promised to bring back the violent establishment which has for so long oppressed us.
Trump did not win the popular vote, but if we allow his administration to take office in January 2017, America will do more than issue a statement that we are tired of considering the voices of women and minorities at the power tables. We will endorse a virulent white supremacist, a billionaire who would continue to misuse the law and our courts as a [taxpayer funded] playground to oppress the less fortunate; he will continue to use racism, violence, misogyny, rape, objectification and subjugation to shut us up.
On Thursday, I watched with great sadness as America's first black president pledged his cooperation to help a democratically elected white supremacist transition smoothly into the Oval Office. I can only imagine how hard it must have been for First Lady Michelle Obama, an accomplished woman in her own right, to welcome Melania Trump, her plagiarist, into a White House that was, as FLOTUS put it, built by slaves.
When we enter the anonymity of the voting booth, it may be easy for some to forget that we are connected to larger communities who think differently than we do. That anyone would allow America to send such a message to the world in 2016 demonstrates the profound disconnect between the values friends have shared on an individual level versus what they will allow their reputations to be used for in society.
With the balance of powers now so deeply skewed towards the Conservative agenda, I recognize that it is a dangerous time to attempt to change the Constitution. I hope that we can fight oppression with peace, dignity, and kindness. But please, don't abandon me in this Handmaid's Tale nightmare.
Donald Trump is all wrong about climate change. Not only does he risk becoming the only world leader who fails to understand that dangerous climate change is the central environmental challenge of our time. He also risks negating U.S. leadership on climate change at a time when the global community has reached consensus on the need to address this crisis.
Trump is also wrong when he claims that all action to protect the climate is done for the benefit of China, because China does not do anything to help climate change. He is wrong to think that being part of an international climate agreement would give China an unfair advantage over the U.S. in manufacturing. And he is wrong to believe that withdrawing from the Paris Agreement will make America great again.
China was responsible for over one-quarter of the worlds carbon emissions in 2014more than the U.S. and the European Union combined. It accounts for 33-40 percent of the carbon emissions gap between current trends and a 2 degree Celsius pathway. Yet China is moving to cut its CO emissions much faster than anyone expected, and is now on a path to achieving its Paris climate commitments, including peaking its CO emissions, well before its 2030 goal. China is on track to cutting its CO emissions by 0.5% this year as it burns less coal, building on a 0.7% reduction last year, and contributing to a global slowdown in CO emissions growth.
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In fact, as I described in detail here, China is emerging as a global climate leader, taking the number one spot in global renewables investment for the past few years. In 2015 alone, China invested $102 billion in renewables, more than the U.S. and EU combined, and installed half of new wind power capacity globally and 1/3 of new solar capacity. Realizing the benefits of actively adapting to the new low carbon economy, China is committing to move ahead regardless of what the U.S. does.
Contrary to Trumps assertions, China is not waiting until 2030 before taking climate action. In September and October of this year, for example, China cancelled dozens of coal plants already under construction with a combined capacity greater than the UKs entire coal fleet, in order to avoid building coal power capacity that would become stranded, unused assets given increasingly cheap renewables. It has set a national coal consumption target of 4.2 billion tons for 2020, about the same as its coal consumption in 2013, and its coal consumption has actually fallen for the past two years, with 2016 likely to continue the trend.
Chinas 13 Five Year Plans (2016-2020) for power sector development and greenhouse gas emissions control, announced recently, call for increasing wind and solar power to 210 GW and 110 GW respectively, achieving sales of five million new electric vehicles, establishing a national carbon market to price carbon, and developing 100 pilot low-carbon cities (from the current 40) by 2020. China will also reduce its CO emissions per unit GDP by 18 percent below 2015 levels by 2020 and seek to meet new energy demand with low-carbon energy sources, as it has been doing for the past several years.
Trumps concern that the Paris Agreement would give China an unfair advantage over the U.S. in manufacturing is groundless. Much of the light industry in China is already shifting to countries with lower labor costs, such as Vietnam. And China is moving away from heavy industry as fast as it can in order to make a long-term transition towards a low carbon, service-based economy. China is shutting down excess industrial capacity and working to reduce CO emissions in the iron and steel, chemical, and building materials industries, which will all be included in the national carbon trading system to be launched next year. The countrys overall 2020 target for industry is to decrease CO emissions per unit of industrial value added by 22 percent below 2015 levels.
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Chinas transition to a low carbon economy is neither easy nor painless. As described in an excellent analysis in Vox entitled The Real War on Coal is Happening in China Right Now, the governments crackdown on excess steel and mining capacity is already expected to lay off some 1.8 million workers, a whopping 15 percent of the workforce. Officials in various coal plants have been fretting about strikes and protests over the job losses.
But China recognizes that transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy will ensure its long-term economic development by creating jobs in new industries like renewables, EVs and efficiency, combat its relentless pollution, and protect China from the devastating impacts of climate change on its food security, human health, cities and infrastructure. And rather than denying the reality of climate change and continuing to expand fossil fuel use, as Trump and the Republicans seek to do, China has pledged to set aside $15.8 billion for job retraining and other support for workers, and to ensure that future job growth in other sectors will help absorb losses in the declining coal and steel sectors.
Much of that job growth is already coming in the clean energy sector. China is the worlds undisputed leader in green jobs, driven by unprecedented growth in the solar and wind industries: 3.5 million people now work in the renewable energy sector in China, while 769,000 work in the renewables sector in the United States. The Worldwatch Institute estimates that Chinas energy, transportation and forestry sectors could provide at least 4.5 million green jobs in 2020. Chinas leadership in renewable energy technology, revenue, and jobs will only accelerate if the U.S. were to pull back on its climate commitments. In fact, at least one commentator has called Trumps climate denial a gift to Chinas green industry.
Thats not the only gift that Trump would give to China if he abandons the Paris Agreement. Relinquishing Americas international leadership role on climate change would open the door for China to become the worlds de facto climate leader, diminishing U.S. influence and enhancing Chinas across multiple issues. As Zou Ji, deputy director of the National Centre for Climate Change Strategy and a senior Chinese climate negotiator, told Reuters:
If Trump abandons efforts to implement the Paris agreement, "China's influence and voice are likely to increase in global climate governance, which will then spill over into other areas of global governance and increase China's global standing, power and leadership.
Trumps actions could also lead China and the European Union to respond with climate-focused trade measures, such as imposing a carbon price on imports of high-carbon products, i.e., a carbon tariff border adjustment, from the U.S. and others.
Chinas chief climate negotiator, Xie Zhenhua, told Reuters that causing the U.S. to leave the Paris Agreement or fail to live up to its commitments would be a mistake for Donald Trump:
I believe a wise political leader should take policy stances that conform with global trends [towards balancing economic protection and environmental growth] If they resist this trend, I don't think they'll win the support of their people, and their country's economic and social progress will also be affected.
The Paris Agreement will survive Donald Trump. But withdrawing the U.S. from this critically needed international agreementa difficult and lengthy process in any casewould turn America into an international climate pariah, weaken our economy, adversely affect the health and livelihoods of millions of Americans, and jeopardize the future of our planet.
If Donald Trump truly wants to make America great again, he will embrace a low-carbon future based on 21 century low carbon clean technology and innovations. To do otherwise would be to turn his back on our children and future generations. We cannot afford to let that happen.
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When veterans return to civilian life after their duty to our country ends, a surprising number will also see the end of something else: their marriage. As a study from Brigham Young University shows, combat veterans' first marriages are 62% more likely to end in separation or divorce compared to the first marriages of non-veterans. For the brave men and women of our armed forces, this means that the very relationships veterans may be counting on to provide love and support during a time of transition are the same relationships that are the most vulnerable and at risk.
Why is this? And what solutions can help veterans and their spouses stay married? One key to identifying what works is to understand just what veterans are up against.
For example, John was an Army Ranger during the Iraq War. In his three separate tours of duty, he was required to make split-second decisions that could mean life or death for his unit -- and for himself. On mission after mission, the stress he felt was unlike anything he had ever endured. And then the worst came when he watched in horror as one of his unit members stepped on a live mine left lying in wait for them...
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After the war, John remained in active duty service until he was honorably discharged in 2011. His wife Pam and their children were so happy to have him home again, and John was pleased to quickly land a private sector job in the computer industry. On the outside, it looked like John and Pam were settling into normal civilian family life. But inside...John couldn't shake how numb and distant he felt. As the years went by, he had flashbacks and nightmares, and struggled constantly to find meaning and connection with his family. He drank as a way to cope, but getting drunk only made him lash out at Pam. When he came home one day to find that Pam had taken the kids and moved in with her mother, he wasn't surprised. John loved his family, but his isolation and depression felt insurmountable. As he read the note she left on the kitchen table telling him to expect divorce papers to be served the following week, John's only response was to pour himself another drink.
Are you a combat veteran or military spouse in need of real solutions to protect your marriage and family? For John and Pam, and other veterans going through marital strife, here are five ways to help you through this time.
Be Open to Counseling: Something that is important for all military couples to understand: the transition home can be a challenge for veterans, but it can also be difficult for spouses and partners. If you are feeling alone and isolated, be aware that your spouse may be experiencing their own sense of disconnectedness. When left unaddressed, these kinds of emotions can feed off each other and worsen. To protect your relationship, work on ways to open the lines of communication. You may benefit from attending couples and/or individual counseling or peer support groups for military families. Counseling is often a vital part of reunification because it can help you (and your spouse) process emotions and learn coping skills as you adjust to post-military life.
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Recognize PTSD: As a lingering effect of combat, upwards of 10% of veterans of recent wars and combat missions develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a serious mental health disorder marked by symptoms such as nightmares and difficulty sleeping, angry outbursts, depression, loss of interest, hyper-vigilance, and feeling numb or emotionally distant. Experiencing any of these symptoms, however mild, is not something to brush off as insignificant, or view as a sign of weakness. Indeed, getting help to recover from trauma may be the single most important step you take to keep your personal and family relationships intact. If you need help with PTSD, please contact your local VA Center to be connected with medical and therapeutic professionals trained in PTSD recovery. Tip: Ask if the VA Center offers EMDR, an evidence-based treatment for helping individuals process and release trauma.
Protect Your Kids: Children grow up so fast, and reuniting with your kids following a lengthy service commitment may feel like you are meeting each other for the first time. Your kids may not be as responsive or comfortable with you as soon as you would like, and reintegrating into everyday family life may feel strange. It can also be the case that your spouse, as the parent in charge while you were away, may be reluctant to let go of control over discipline and other parenting matters. Accept that rebuilding your relationship with your children will take time and understanding, as will the relationship you and your spouse have as co-parents. Family counseling or attending a military family support group can be helpful for all of you.
When Living Apart Is The (Temporary) Answer: If there is substantial discord at home, you and your spouse may decide to live apart while you continue to work on your problems. As part of the temporary separation, it is important to contact a family law attorney who can help you prepare agreements that establish temporary child support and a parenting plan, temporary spousal support as needed, and related matters such as who pays the mortgage payments and costs related to home maintenance. Not having written agreements in place to address these issues can create added strain in the relationship -- which can then sink your attempts to heal and rebuild your relationship. If your spouse is reluctant to make agreements with you, you can ask the courts to issue temporary custody and support orders.
Understand Your Legal Options: If you have separated, or even if one of you has filed for divorce, but now the two of you are working through your issues, you may want to explore the legal option of having a reconciliation agreement put in place. A reconciliation agreement is a specific type of post-nuptial agreement that spells out how assets and debts, including military pensions, would be divided in the event of a divorce. Having a post-nuptial agreement in place provides peace of mind during a sensitive time, and also adds gravitas to your decision to give your relationship a second chance.
By Ben Newton, Principal Product Manager, Sumo Logic
"Whoever said money can't buy happiness simply didn't know where to go shopping."
Bo Derek
The U.S. has many rituals that define the progress of the year, some quite traditional like Christmas and Thanksgiving, and some with an air of shared ridiculousness like Black Friday. It is now a deep-seated American tradition to revel in the shared gluttony and community of Thanksgiving and then exercise those calories off the next day in the way we Americans know best - shopping! It wasn't always that way.
The term Black Friday comes from 1950's Philadelphia to describe the barely controlled chaos of thousands who poured into the city for the Army-Navy game the Saturday after Thanksgiving. In the 1980's, retailers successfully rebranded that rather unflattering name into a cultural phenomenon. Since the 80's, the world has changed, particularly in the world of retail, in which the shopper has changed as much as the shopping center, with technology playing a massive role in those changes. For example, in I the past couple of years, Big Data and Machine Learning have gone from being fringe technologies to must-haves.
According to research by Accenture Analytics, two-thirds of retailers consider Big Data "extremely important" to their retail operations and more than three-quarters believe Big Data is changing the way they do business. So, what are the areas where we are seeing those technologies applied?
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Shoppers want personalized experiences
Two interrelated, long standing trends in retail are increased connection of shoppers with their favorite brands and their expectation of interacting with those retailers on their own terms. Despite the increased dominance of internet-based shopping, more than 85% of customers still want to interact with brands in person. Since no one leaves home without their phone, the phone becomes an extension of the brand experience in the store. With the cutting edge brands (Apple, Starbucks, Target, etc.) the line between the online and "offline" brand experience is fading . This is only possible because of the piles of data that all of us as consumers produce. For example, in my own personal experience, I never buy anything without researching it online first - very often in the store itself. I even found myself researching a second-hand guitar amplifier in a pawn shop before buying it. Picking up your phone to research purchases is just muscle memory for most people now.
Black Friday is but one day of many
As every retailer knows, a brand experience is built up over many interactions with a customer. While we might have uncovered Black Friday deals in the newspaper 20 years ago, few customers are interacting with a product or brand for the first time in the store on Black Friday. They might have lurked in the online store beforehand, added a product to their wish list, read reviews, etc. Leading retailers will use that information to enhance the Black Friday experience.
Black Friday has also long been giving ground to "Cyber Monday" as more customers shop online. We may have even reached a real tipping point in the online vs. in-person experience, since more customers are planning to shop online over the Black Friday weekend than go in-person this year.
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In response to these trends, some retailers have decided that Black Friday is outdated. On one end of the spectrum , Amazon.com, as the quintessential online retailer, has turned Black Friday into a multi-week experience, while at the other end of the spectrum has REI taking a firm stand to close on Black Friday to encourage people to spend time together. In both cases, these retailers understand their core customers and are adjusting the retail experience to best meet their customers where they are. For better or worse, the combination of the power of the Internet and the deeper insights of Big Data are making retail less of one dominated by a few big shopping days, to more of a continuous immersion into your personal consumer experience.
Predicting Demand
One of the biggest challenges, and perhaps least "sexy"problems of retail is managing inventory. Traditionally the retail "sale" was a way to manage over-stock of inventory while clearing the sales floor for the next season - making way for winter from fall, spring from winter, etc. It was definitely conventional wisdom when I was growing up to wait for the end of season to get the best deals, which, of course, meant that by the time winter rolled around again, I had forgotten about the cool sweater I purchased the year before. With today's finicky customer and even tighter margins, retailers can't afford to blithely follow these long-seated expectations. Today's brand has to practically engage in some sort of pseudo-fortune telling to predict what moderately affluent, 16 year-old girls living in suburban Atlanta will want to wear come November if it is raining more than usual. Consumers barely understand themselves - so how can a retailer? Ding, Ding - Big Data is the right answer. Using powerful machine learning software, retailers can divide their core customers into neat little segments and do a pretty good job of predicting demand. These new algorithms can take a whole range of inputs from weather to supplier stock. At the end of the day, the possibilities for using machine learning to get more efficiency out of the supply chains and deliver more value to customers is almost endless.
It's safe to say that diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Russia relationship reached a new low point during the month of October. It was a month that saw the breakdown of talks between the U.S. and Russia over the Syrian conflict; the two countries also exchanged threats and accusations over a range of issues, which culminated with Moscow reneging on its agreement to reduce Russia's nuclear arsenal.
Recently, Moscow has succeeded in challenging a wide range of American interests, with the most visible clashes occurring in Ukraine, Syria, and the nebulous web of cyberspace. "The most common U.S. policy responses to Russia -- from both Republican and Democratic administrations," says Matthew Rojansky, the Director of the Wilson Center's Kennan Institute, "have depended either on the hope that Moscow can be fully defeated or that it can become a friend and fellow democracy." Considering that President Barack Obama has just a short time left in office, initiating a major foreign-policy shift under his administration is unlikely. As tensions between Moscow and Washington continue to intensify, so, too, does the U.S. presidential race that will determine Obama's successor.
And yet, neither Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump has articulated a vision for relations with Russia that have matured beyond reductive caricatures of the past. Rojansky writes that both presidential candidates tend to eschew the situation's complexities, "with Clinton painting Russian President Vladimir Putin as a cartoonish villain and Trump viewing Moscow as an ally in-waiting." Although Hillary Clinton has stated she would be willing to work with Russia on a limited set of issues where interests align, she also seems willing to push back when Russia creates problems for U.S. and Western interests.
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As I see it, a new U.S. policy toward Russia should begin with the acknowledgement that, barring an extraordinary turn of events, Putin will be calling the shots as the most powerful man in Russia for many year to come. (My prediction is that he will find a way to remain at the helm of the Kremlin far beyond the 2024 election..he is already expected to "win" reelection in 2018). So long as Putin wields power, we should assume that tensions with Russia will not cleave neatly along geographical borders or distinct policy issues. And above all, rather than engage in the kind of wishful thinking that Russia can be negotiated into submission or persuaded to change its ways, a new U.S. approach should at once deal with Russia in all its complexities and contradictions while retaining a forceful upper hand willing to squeeze, however tightly, if needed.
Independent testing on an array of popular American food products found many samples contained residue levels of the weed killer called glyphosate, leading the nonprofit organization behind the testing to call for corporate and regulatory action to address consumer safety concerns.
The herbicide residues were found in cookies, crackers, popular cold cereals and chips commonly consumed by children and adults, according to Food Democracy Now and the group's "Detox Project," which arranged for the testing at the San Francisco-based Anresco lab. Anresco uses liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), a method widely considered by the scientific community and regulators as the most reliable for analyzing glyphosate residues. The groups issued a report Monday that details the findings.
The announcement of the private tests comes as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is struggling with its own efforts to analyze how much of the herbicide residues might be present in certain foods. Though the FDA routinely tests foods for other pesticide residues, it never tested for glyphosate until this year. The testing for glyphosate residues was recently suspended, however. Glyphosate is under particular scrutiny now because last year the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified it as a probable human carcinogen. Glyphosate is the world's most widely used herbicide and is the key ingredient in Monsanto Co.'s branded Roundup, as well as in hundreds of other products. The Environmental Protection Agency is now finalizing a risk assessment for glyphosate to determine if future use should be limited.
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The tests conducted by Anresco were done on 29 foods commonly found on grocery store shelves. Glyphosate residues were found in General Mills' Cheerios at 1,125.3 parts per billion (ppb), in Kashi soft-baked oatmeal dark chocolate cookies at 275.57 ppb, and in Ritz Crackers at 270.24 ppb, according to the report. Different levels were found in Kellogg's Special K cereal, Triscuit Crackers and several other products. The report noted that for some of the findings, the amounts were "rough estimates at best and may not represent an accurate representation of the sample." The food companies did not respond to a request for comment.
The EPA sets a "maximum residue limit" (MRL), also known as a tolerance, for pesticide residues on food commodities, like corn and soybeans. MRLs for glyphosate vary depending upon the commodity. Finished food products like those tested at Anresco might contain ingredients from many different commodities.
The nonprofit behind the report said that concerns about glyphosate comes as research shows that Roundup can cause liver and kidney damage in rats at only 0.05 ppb, and additional studies have found that levels as low as 10 ppb can have toxic effects on the livers of fish. The groups criticized U.S. regulators for setting an acceptable daily intake (ADI) at for glyphosate at much higher levels than other countries consider safe. The United States has set the ADI for glyphosate at 1.75 milligrams per kilogram of bodyweight per day (mg/kg/bw/day) while the European Union has set it at 0.3, for instance. The EPA is supposed to set an ADI from all food and water sources that is at least 100 times lower than levels that have been demonstrated to cause no effect in animal testing. But critics assert that the EPA's analyses have been unduly influenced by the agrichemical industry.
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The groups said that the federal government should conduct an investigation into the "harmful effects of glyphosate on human health and the environment," and the relationships between regulators and the agrichemical industry that has long touted the safety of glyphosate.
Monsanto has said repeatedly that there are no legitimate safety concerns regarding glyphosate when it is used as intended, and that toxicological studies in animals have demonstrated that glyphosate does not cause cancer, birth defects, DNA damage, nervous system effects, immune system effects, endocrine disruption or reproductive problems. The company, which has been reaping roughly $5 billion a year from glyphosate-based products, says any glyphosate residues in food are too minimal to be harmful.
Both the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the FDA have echoed Monsanto's reassurances in the past, citing the chemical's proven safety as justification for not including glyphosate residue testing in annual programs that test thousands of food products each year for hundreds of different types of pesticides. But the lack of routine government monitoring has made it impossible for consumers or regulators to determine what levels of glyphosate are present in foods, and questions about the chemical's safety persist.
A key reason glyphosate residues persist in so many food products has to do with its widespread use in food production. Glyphosate is sprayed directly on several crops genetically engineered to tolerate the herbicide, such as corn, soybeans, sugar beets, and canola. Glyphosate is also sprayed directly on many types of conventional crops ahead of harvest, including wheat, oats and barley. In all, glyphosate is used in some fashion in the production of at least 70 food crops, according to the EPA, including a range of fruits, nuts and veggies. Even spinach growers use glyphosate. In the report issued Monday, the groups call for a permanent ban on the use of glyphosate as a pre-harvest drying agent because of the residue levels.
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On the eve of the 2016 election, Broadway's brightest gathered at the Dramatists Guild Fund Gala at Gotham Hall in New York, NY for Great Writers Thank Their Lucky Stars: The Presidential Edition.
The evening honored patrons of the arts and philanthropists John Breglio, Georgina Chapman & Keren Craig and Linda G. Levy while fundraising for the the Dramatists Guild Fund, the charitable arm of the Dramatists Guild of America, with an auction.
After they performed, I caught up with the stars to ask them how they were feeling and what they would name a musical about the 2016 election.
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Mandy Gonzalez - Hamilton, Wicked, In the Heights
"I read something by Christopher Hayes. [Tonight is like] Christmas Eve and the night before a life-threatening surgery... I think it would be called, 'I'm With Her!'"
Nell Benjamin - Legally Blonde, The Explorers Club
"We kind of are writing one. My husband and I are writing about a renaissance fair called Huzzah!, and it's essentially about a very charismatic knight who has a very dark ages mentality that manages to, with his charisma, convince them that we really need to live in the past. And the woman who has been running the fair, trying to do the work, unheralded, not a star, who has to kind of take him on, even though she doesn't have that star power. She only has hard work, determination and smarts. Sounds strangely familiar?"
Raul Esparza - Company, "Law & Order: SVU," "Hannibal"
"I don't know about you but I've been a total news junkie. It's like a heroin fix. I don't know what I'm going to do after tomorrow. My friends come over and they're like, 'You have to turn off the TV. Turn it off. You have to stop.' And I start flipping back and forth between MSNBC and Fox. I don't want to be biased. I want to see what the coverage is!... 'Hit the road, Jack. And don't you come back no more!'"
Stephen Schwartz - Wicked, Godspell, "The Prince of Egypt"
"I guess the song for tonight, just because we were - the Sondheim song, 'I'm Calm,' from A Funny Thing Happened On the Way to the Forum."
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Kate Baldwin - Big Fish, Finian's Rainbow
"'I Want to Hide.' 'Wake Me When It's Over'... It would be, 'Gotta buy a pantsuit!' for Madam President."
Aaron Tveit - "Braindead," "Graceland," Next to Normal
"I like the one I just sang. 'Morning Glow' is nice. It's about hope, and we have so many more great things about this country and the way that we get to live than all the negativity that's been going on. No matter what happens, we're going to all push forward together. I try to stay in that space. The lyrics to that song were very poignant. I think it's going to be OK. I think everyone's going to be OK."
The number of college graduates with disabilities is on the rise, as is the number of diversity-conscious companies looking to hire them. Yet, of the 1.4 million people with disabilities who have college degrees, only about 40% report to be working. Many are living below the poverty line.
The poor job placement of students with disabilities is not only a social justice failure, it is a lost opportunity to address the talent needs of today's employers. It also begs the question: why aren't colleges and universities doing more to prepare all of our students for careers?
The research Institute SRI International reported that the number of students with disabilities attending college is rising, citing that in 2010, 46% of young adults with disabilities were attending a college or university within four years of leaving high school, compared with 26% in 1990. Much of this is attributed to accommodations within the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), strengthened by the Obama administration, that better support individuals with disabilities throughout their academic trajectory.
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Additionally, in 2014, the Obama administration enacted new rules for Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act (RA), requiring employers receiving government contracts to set a 7% disabilities goal across all positions, not just those requiring low skills and limited education. The new ruling means that employers can no longer satisfy diversity criteria by hiring people with disabilities for the loading dock or mail room. They need college graduates.
The educational gains made through accommodations combined with government-imposed hiring incentives would appear to be a public policy home-run for graduates with disabilities yet the employment numbers aren't moving despite the high supply/high demand scenario.
For more than thirty years, the National Organization on Disability (NOD) has been striving to increase job opportunities and economic self-sufficiency for the 29 million working aged Americans with disabilities. Much of our work involves connecting employers seeking to expand their diversity initiatives with work-ready candidates. For employers hoping to hire graduates with disabilities, this has been particularly challenging.
Traditional job fairs aren't producing the number of candidates with disabilities needed to fill positions; meanwhile, the likely source for such candidates - college recruiting offices - have, thus far, not risen to the challenge. In fact, the disconnect between those who support students with disabilities on campus and those who counsel and support career-seeking students of all abilities is a major obstacle.
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A new partnership between NOD and Career Opportunities for Students with Disabilities (COSD) has been working on addressing the problem, starting with exploring what's happening - or not happening within college recruitment offices. In our 2014 report "Bridging the Employment Gap for Students with Disabilities" we found that at many schools, the career services office -- which assists students in preparing for and gaining employment --lacked a connection to the office of disabled student services, which exists for a different purpose - to ensure proper accessibility and accommodations while students with disabilities are on campus.
This disconnect leaves a gap, both for employers seeking to diversify their work force and for students with disabilities who are not gaining access to the same services and opportunities as their peers without disabilities.
NOD and COSD are working with colleges and universities to close this gap by helping them implement recommendations such as the appointment of a liaison among offices dedicated to coordinating and sharing resources. Our annual conference, held this week in Boston, brings together employers, administrators and students for employment opportunities as well as strategy sessions on how to increase the students with disabilities' pipeline.
While progress is being made in this area, we are also working on some of the less practical, more philosophical, barriers to employment such as confidentiality, stigma and bias. Historically, students with disabilities looking for jobs were encouraged to hide their disabilities from their potential employers, particularly those with "invisible" disabilities. In 2008, the ADA Amendment Act expanded protection for people with all kinds of disabilities, including dyslexia, anxiety disorders, ADHD and autism spectrum disorders. Stigma surrounding mental health disabilities continues to dissuade many students with these disabilities from disclosing them.
The consequences of not reporting are many and include the fact that students with disabilities are not getting the career support they and their peers without disabilities need to gain employment such as internship opportunities, and resume and interviewing support. This also keeps colleges and universities from gathering the information that would allow them to measure students' progress over time and implement data bases that can be used by employers. Without this information, students with disabilities are invisible job candidates.
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A Willful Blindness, and Not Beside the Point
By Carol Smaldino
The only way for me to write about torture and trauma at Guantanamo is to connect to other issues, even if the word "issues" seems awfully cold and measured in comparison to the passions, grief, even madness and brutality of the former.
It is not new that we hear and see reports of torture carried out by the American military, and even by psychological staff involved. First let me say the "A Willful Blindness" refers to a part of the New York Times (11/12/16) piece entitled "Where Even Nightmares Are Classified: Psychiatric Care at Guantanamo", by Sheri Fink.
The reference is as follows: "At Guantanamo, 'a willful blindness' to the consequences emerged. Those equipped to diagnose, document and treat the effects -- psychiatrists, psychologists and mental health teams -- were often unaware of what had happened.
Sometimes by instruction and sometimes by choice, they typically did not ask what the prisoners had experienced in interrogations, current and former military doctors said."
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I don't feel superior to the many who don't have this subject on their radar, if only because there is so much that I myself have missed along the way, including the racism rampant in white suburbs, and the flooding of black neighborhoods in LA with crack cocaine in the 1980's.
I've always felt a keen distinction between the United States and most other nations, when it came to safeguards of the judicial situation, the being innocent before being proven guilty and the decency insured all people, even prisoners. The fact that we have seen piles of footage of prison guards in America pummeling and beating even harmless prisoners, to the point of manslaughter and even death, has felt hard to believe.
And without meaning to be a moral relativist, I suppose that for me the intentional torture of human beings often accompanied by sadistic enjoyment and even glee, has seemed to me a dividing line between an element of Nazism where no humanity is left. It scares me to consider my faith in America may have been completely naive.
My question has to do with why these egregious crimes seem to bother so few Americans. Why, in other words, has there not been enough of an outcry so as to insist on hearings that would put on trial all the people responsible--not only the military personnel on the front lines, but people from politicians to psychologists who sanctioned this and gave the orders.
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I think part of the crisis many of us are having--I'm speaking more about liberals and progressives here--has to do with a sense of betrayal at the election of Donald Trump. How could so many Americans vote for him, knowing that he stood for a kind of hatred (even if defensive) against immigrants, especially Mexicans and Muslims? How could people ignore his apparent ignoring of warnings by the soberest of scientists and celebrities (Leonardo DiCaprio comes in here) about the damage to the climate forever if we don't face the facts of climate change? How could people have ignored the fact that he said he would bring back torture methods, now banned and do even worse?
Are we in America that prone to dehumanizing other groups of people to the extent that we care little to nothing of what they tell us, or how they react? Are we that fickle and distracted to make one group, for some the lgbtq population, the in-crowd for the moment. (I am NOT against them to be sure).
As a therapist one of the biggest challenges is to equalize the playing field as much as possible. This means, that without denying pathology or danger, there is the need to respect the perceptions of the patient--the realities that he/she is experiencing. Good treatment means the therapist is listening carefully to his/her own inner turmoil, hostility, fears, etc. Sometimes I feel that as a country we are allergic to looking at how far we can go, either in terms of actual aggression and at least being a silent participant if only by saying nothing, and by a willful neglect and even "a willful blindness".
The Jews in Nazi German were considered beneath the rest of humanity, both socially and emotionally and even physically. So much that they needed to be exterminated and for many, how they were treated was hardly a matter of concern. Many Germans lost their moral compass in an atmosphere where the psychopath put the rest of the people in doubt, where dis-regulating the systems of ethics and caring that so called civilized countries tend to pride themselves on having, became the norm.
There are many facts, reports, books articles already written on torture, and the traumatic effects it has had. Keep in mind, that many of those imprisoned were kept without charges, without evidence and as it turned out without advantages even to our military intelligence and security. Keep in mind also that the United States went into Iraq on false information and did great damage in an entire region.
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This stuff may seem beside the point because people are worried about economics, which is no small thing. A bulk of voters (and I dare say non-voters) make time for church on Sundays or some form of worship where they both pray and make promises to observe values of charity and kindness.
It would be terrible to think that a willful blindness to the suffering of many not in our immediate circle is what we are dealing with. This would mean that we are on strike about information that stretches our humanizing capacities.
Chie Hitotsuyama spent much of her childhood surrounded by the sights, sounds, smells, and feel of her grandfather's traditional paper-strip factory in Fuji, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. Much of the machinery was quite old and wooden, and the infusion of traditional practices helped to shape Ms. Hitotsuyama's view of her life and her art.
She began her artistic career as an illustrator, working on two-dimensional surfaces and when she turned to making sculpture, her sense of line, depth and proportion carried over, permitting her to make sculptures of great intensity and depth of meaning.
She chose to make life-sized sculptures of animals of the land and sea using an uncommon medium.
Her sculptures are created using discarded newsprint rolled into strings, a technique that draws on her childhood, her family legacy and her sincere desire to understand her own place in the living world.
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"Old thrown out newspapers attracted me as a medium, not only because they are easily obtained, but also, they are an accumulation of history and contain stories of human behavior. I see the correlation in how humans repeat their own histories as well as experience the cycles of life and death."
"When I create, I carefully form contours and curves with each single string I make from discarded newspaper. These single strings, collected together, become the surface of an object, and eventually, they become a shape or a form, and an animal appears."
She reflects on this connection between her art and her life...
"Since the first sculptural piece I made, a rhinoceros, I have continued to sculpt forms of animals and while doing so I have become acutely aware of the life force in all beings. I admire the animals I study. I am in awe of their strength and survival in unforgiving nature."
"I also became strongly aware of what life is all about and what it means to live. Each animal and human being, including myself, has its own life and will be gone someday. I felt that similarity, that we are all equal. I also admire animals."
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Her subject matter spans the great diversity of life on earth, and at the same time, strikes common and universal themes...
"The strength of animals trying earnestly to live in unforgiving nature impresses me, their strength is much like the way pieces of newspapers rolled one by one, together, increase in strength as I work with them."
Ms. Hitotsuyama has a deep connection with her art, and views her work as instructive to herself...
"I am in awe of the strength and ability of animals to survive. They have led me to my way of life and the theme of my life. By creating animal sculptures that convey their respective lives, I'm trying to find out how I should live."
(The following two videos were made by Ayako Hoshino, US Producer for Ms. Hitotsuyama's PAPER TRAILS exhibitions)
(the following video is an extended version of the above video)
PAPER TRAILS - US Tour - Exhibitions of Ms. Hitotsuyama's Art
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JAI & JAI GALLERY - Los Angeles - Sep. 3, 2016 - Oct. 15, 2016
Jai & Jai Gallery in Los Angeles recently featured the first exhibition of her work in the US.
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Ms. Jomjai Srisomburananont, Jai & Jai Gallery Director :
"Chie Hitotsuyama - My Thoughts...
"Before having met Chie and her team we were in communication for almost a year via email. I had seen photos of her works dozens of times and each time always in awe of the intricate details of her sculptures. As a gallery owner, it's in my nature to analyze and critique the pieces of works that come through. For example, the Mother and Child Manatee that was part of the 'Paper Trails' exhibition at Jai & Jai Gallery; these are massive paper sculptures that hung from the ceiling of the gallery space that made spectators feel tiny in comparison.
"The gallery space, only being 350 square feet created the perfect environment for Chie's sea animal pieces to literally speak for itself in such a minimalistic way that transcends the boundaries of critiquing the work. Her works are literal and every texture and nuance is intentional. It was almost as if we were intruding on these pieces of works - as if we were invading their space and in a sense with Chie's works and her appreciation for animals and their habitats, it translated as such. The entirety of the 'Paper Trails' exhibition was curated with such precision and intent that the course and flow of exhibition itself felt as if you were swimming with the animals.
"That evening after Chie's opening when everybody had left, I had the opportunity to stand alone in the space with her works. Each piece has a life of its own. What struck me most are the eyes of the sculptures. She is able give life and expressiveness to these animal sculptures that I have never seen before with any other works. She can create these muscle textures with the hand-rolled twines and intricately bends and folds them in such a way that makes them seem like the animal is caught in mid-action of swimming by. Each roll, turn, fold, color, design and braid is planned and intentional. Her control and structure is evident in all her works and is a true reflection of her work ethic and it stands out in every piece she creates.
"It was a true privilege and honor to work with Chie. Her attention to detail and the discipline and rigor she must have to sculpt each piece is mind blowing. The gentle way she hand-rolls each twine and sculpts the piece as she feels her way through the animal piece is art in-itself. The final output of her hours upon hours of sculpting and molding is her gift to us. Stunning and breath-taking are understatements of her talent. One must stand in the room where her sculptures reside. It is then, that you can truly appreciate her passion and true love for what she does. Until that moment, when you can be in the same room with her pieces, will you only understand what I am talking about."
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JEFFREY BRESLOW GALLERY - Chicago - Sep. 23, 2016 - Jan. 15, 2017
Ms. Paola Guzman, Director, Jeffrey Breslow Gallery :
"Jeffrey Breslow Gallery premiered "Rock Paper Show," on September 23, 2016 - "Rock Paper Show" is a gallery exhibition featuring the paper sculptures of renowned Japanese paper artist Chie Hitotsuyama, and the abstract stone and steel sculptures of Chicago-based sculptor Jeffrey Breslow.
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"Visitors find it hard to believe Hitotsuyamas sculptures are created using recycled newspaper, shaped into remarkable life-size animals with a soulful presence, stemming from their magical realism and large scale. Hitotsuyamas sculptures have become the talk of the moment here at the Jeffrey Breslow Gallery. The reaction people give her work is fascinating. Through Hitotsuyamas work, you can see her appreciation and devotion for the animal kingdom. There have been a handful of visitors in our Gallery, due to the incredible success Chie has had. Everyone is excited to see the pieces he or she saw on television, or newspapers right in front of their eyes."
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MOAH:CEDAR Art Gallery - Lancaster - Oct. 2, 2016 - Jan. 7, 2017
The exhibition at the MOAH:CEDAR Art Gallery in Lancaster, California, runs through Jan. 7, 2017. Ms. Hitotsuyama will be artist in residence during her exhibition.
Ms. Andi Campognone, Curator & Museum Manager, MOAH:CEDAR :
"I became interested in Ms. Hitotsuyama's work because of her direct connection with reuse/recycle concepts. As MOAH is a municipal museum, it is part of our mission to support City directives as the City of Lancaster is actively working to reduce its carbon footprint and introduce education to the community through the arts - so you see how we would be thrilled to share Hitotsuyama's art and engagement to the Antelope Valley as part of the Green MOAH Initiative.
"As far as how the exhibition resonates with the mission of MOAH:CEDAR that is best described by MOAH:CEDAR's liaison Robert Benitez as 'the three core elements of MOAH:CEDAR's Mission include engagement through captivating exhibitions, innovative artists and dynamic programming all which describe Chie Hitotsuyama: To Hear Your Footsteps'"
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AVANT - Miami - Nov. 30, 2016 - Feb. 10, 2017
Dmitry Prut, founder and owner of Miami's internationally renowned Avant Gallery :
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"The life-like vibrancy and expressions are quite remarkable considering Chie works with newspaper as her medium of choice. One of the things I take away from this is the recyclable, ecological factor and how it instills a certain ethereal feeling of evolution. She is extraordinary and that is one of the aims at Avant in terms of what we bring to the market."
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Sponsors of Ms. Hitotsuyama's US tour include: The LOS ANGELES TIMES (which donated 1,000 lbs of newspaper), KUBOTA, YAMATO TRANSPORTATION, and VANTEC HTS FORWARDING, Ltd., (photo credits: Ayako Hoshino)
Some somber reflections a few days after the 2016 election - from a white, male, traditional Christian exhausted from rowing up the political stream, perhaps helpful to Trump supporters who don't understand all the angst:
First of all, I could do without the spiritual bromides. Many of my dearly beloved brothers and sisters in Christ jingle the mantra, "Don't worry. God is in control. " That's theologically simplistic. A close reading of Genesis 1:27-31 suggests the Almighty has delegated his earthly reign to humans. We're God's stewards - and bad stewardship can be calamitous. Thus, I'm truly troubled when we pack the electoral college with voters who will choose a climate-change denier for president. He's already named a skeptic to head his EPA transition team.
Bromides and platitudes easily transform into snug cloaks veiling fatalistic complacency. They bring little genuine comfort. Did we paste on our god-is-in-control smiles before the victims of Typhoon Haiyan, which crossed the Philippines in 2013 and killed 6,340 people? Of course not. We supplied aid. We do the same in response to Haiti's repeated catastrophes.
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Secondly, Trump's victory is no mere abstraction for me. Mouth cancer and reconstructive surgery gave me a speech impediment last year, robbing me of my preaching career. It then metastasized. I'm bound for more chemotherapy and more unemployment. I find little solace in a president-elect who mocks the handicapped and promises to dismantle insurance reforms and Medicaid. I'm grateful for disability payments and friends who have rallied to my aid, but they cannot fund my medical costs.
So yes, I admit it. I'm afraid. I'm afraid of a slow, agonizing death. I'm afraid of leaving my family bankrupt. True, God is ultimately in control, but I fear that God's designated stewards have forgotten about "the least of these" (Matthew 25:31-46). There's real human cost to that.
Thirdly, I plead with the Democratic Party: Get your act together. You were once the blue-collar party, the family party, the party of the GI Bill. You're now the party of a self-designated cultural elite. You no longer feel America's pulse. For example, you continually dismiss pro-lifers such as I as "extremists." I feel alienated from you even though I hold the same views on marriage as each of your 2008 presidential candidates - views echoed through the millennia. That doesn't mean I "hate" those who disagree with me, nor does it mean I won't protect their rights.
You're living in a bubble, oh Democrats. Pop that bubble and mingle with your former Rust Belt hombres.
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And, please, no more candidates like Hillary Clinton. As Dick Polman observes, "Hard to believe, but true: For all the boiling rage that has propelled him to the presidency, Trump garnered 1.3 million fewer votes than Mitt Romney got while losing in 2012. Heck, Trump has 300,000 fewer votes than John McCain got when McCain was blown out in 2008. And yet, Trump won."
Voters opted to stay home because Clinton weaved around the e-mails and failed to craft a core message. She generated little enthusiasm (I think of myself: I wrote reams of anti-Trump comments but nothing explicitly pro-Hillary - partly because I'm leery of clergy partisanship, but also because I was ... meh). Like it or not, she was politically tone deaf and acted like an evasive attorney in the face of accusations. She generated the impression, at least, of dodging the truth.
Fourthly, our patriotic cliches lay like rubble on the floor. There's something deeply wrong with a political system in which the GOP nominates Donald Trump, whom most Republicans opposed, and an election handing him a "mandate" even though he received fewer votes than his opponent. Politicians in other democracies would at least seek a coalition government in such circumstances (which, incidentally, don't happen because they're not weighted with electoral colleges). Not Trump. He's following the precedent of George W. Bush, who took his 2000 election as a mandate even though he received fewer votes than Al Gore.
Worst of all, I cannot help but think that the American soul ails with a deep sickness. People of integrity and capability were running for office (John Kasich, for example), yet the Republican Party - supposedly the "pro-family" party - nominated a philandering, thrice-married, abusive, misogynistic, Islamophobic, Mexican-hating, serial-lying, anti-science racist with little knowledge of civics and the US Constitution. And many architects of the Religious Right backed him. And self-identified white evangelicals voted for him 80-20. And America gave him an electoral college victory.
What is this? What has America become?
I'd like to point out that one of the reasons why Mariela Castro began her involvement in the LGBT rights movement in Cuba was because a number of her friends committed suicide. Their parents had basically told these kids that they'd rather have a dead son than a gay son and it was very personal to Mariela at that point and is one of the reasons why she undertook the campaign she's working on. We see these difficulties every day here in New York City. We do a lot of work with high school kids. We have 200 high school kids in a program that teaches them filmmaking skills and helps them tell their stories. In many cases it's kids that are dealing with difficulties in their own families, difficulties with acceptance in schools and community and when we put cameras in their hands and give them the power to tell their own stories it makes them stronger, makes them resilient, helps educate people, so we're dealing every single day in New York City and we're using filmmaking to empower people and make their lives better.
A few weeks ago I wrote a piece on the upcoming 6th annual conference of Giving Women, which took place in Geneva on October 6th.
Giving Women is a Geneva based network of women involved in philanthropy. Its aim is to build a community of informed philanthropists and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of girls and women in need globally. To this end over the last 6 years, Giving Women has organised a conference, which touches on important issues that affect the lives of girls and women living in underserved communities.
This year with the influx of Syrian refugees in to Europe, GW chose to address the effect that migration has on the lives of girls and women around the world.
Atalanti Moquette, the founder, commenced proceedings by stating that the purpose of the conference was to change the narrative, which has inspired, fear, hate and prejudice and to establish positive solutions for women and girl migrants.
Michael Moller, the Director-General of the UN in Geneva, spoke next. He referred to the recent UN summit on refugees and migrants held in New York and how all nations had agreed to take a much stronger stance in dealing with the issues. Tellingly, he pointed out that the current situation is 'peanuts' compared to what will happen in the future unless more effective action is taken. In addition to conflict, violence, and poverty, climate change will be an important instigator for mass migration, in the future.
Mr. Moller's view is that the crisis has been badly managed from the offset with a combination of anti-refugee sentiment arising from the media coverage as well as politicians dithering rather than taking a stand. He is further angered by his belief that many politicians throughout Europe have stoked the animosity towards refugees by precipitating elections before finding the right solutions. He also questions the vocal claim that this is the worst refugee crisis since the Second World War; reminding us that there were in fact larger numbers who migrated during the 70s and 80s. He powerfully pointed out that the so-called huge volume of refugees entering Europe actually constitute little more than 0.2% of the 500m strong population of the continent.
The next speaker was Ignacio Packer of Terre des Hommes, a leading Swiss child relief agency committed to improving the lives of vulnerable children around the world. He stressed, amongst other things, that it is critical for the authorities of the countries that refugees are relocated to, to create the necessary places for them to settle.
The opening plenary concluded with a panel discussion with speakers from UN organisations, NGOs and civil society. All the speakers reiterated the importance of giving vulnerable girls and women a voice. Melissa Fleming of the UNHCR echoed Michael Moller's comments pointing out that it is only now that refugees are coming in large numbers to the West that people realise that there are refugees in the world. When a member of the audience asked what we as a group can do, Brandee Butler of the C&A Foundation emphasised the importance of supporting grass roots organisations such as the ones represented at the conference
After a brief break, the participants had the choice of attending one of two smaller panel discussions. One represented the work of various associations and NGOs, who are working for the integration of girls and women migrants in Switzerland. The other panel made up of development workers and journalists from the field described what life was like for refugees on the ground.
On the integration panel, Veronique Thouvenot, of the Millenia Foundation spoke about the programme that is in place in Lausanne to help pregnant women who arrive in Switzerland, not speaking the language and without any family or friends to support them. As a result, midwives work to make sure that they receive information regarding their pregnancy in their native language. Another member, herself the daughter of immigrants to Sweden, talked about her work in Swiss schools, which resulted in the students creating a film documenting the stories of some refugees in Switzerland.
One of the most moving presentations was given by Annie Sparrow, a medical doctor who works in Syria. She described the horrors lived by families and particularly children still in Syria, whose access to health facilities is shrinking by the minute. Her plea was not to forget these people destroyed by this pointless conflict.
On a more positive note, Katy Migiro a journalist with the Thomson Reuters Foundation told of her trip to a camp in Kenya accompanying the education activist, and Nobel prize winner Malala Yousafzai, who received international attention following her miraculous survival in 2012 when she was barbarically shot when she was just 15. She described how excited the kids at the camp were, telling Malala how she had inspired them to pursue their ambitions.
Dr Grabska from the Graduate Institute described her findings on the reasons and motivations for the decisions taken by young adolescent girl migrants from Ethiopia, Bangladesh and Sudan. The outcome of her research was that migration offered these young girls an escape route from often violent and abusive situations. She emphasised how important it is not to see migrants as victims but rather as agents of their own destinies.
The closing plenary focused on what had been discussed throughout the afternoon and how things can move forward. The true scale of the crisis was laid bare by putting to bed misconceptions and scare-mongering myths largely invented by politicians and the media. There is no doubt that much needs to be done and changing people's attitudes towards the crisis is of utmost importance. It is a global issue and the situation will worsen in the coming years unless governments and the general public take the right course of action.
Additionally, there were many discussions on the solutions available to improve the lives of those refugees currently in the numerous refugee camps around Europe; particularly for helping women to feel safer. The conditions that some are forced to live in at present must be improved.
The unique quality of the Giving Women conference was in the diversity of both the audience and speakers. The animated discussions over a well-deserved glass of wine and food reflected the incredible opportunities for collaboration amongst the group. Working together, whatever the objectives are, always makes for stronger results and you certainly felt a general feeling of optimism coupled with the acceptance that much needs to be done.
I found Rebecca Eastmond of JP Morgan, one of Giving Women's main sponsors, summed things up very well by emphasising the fact that if everyone plays a small part, however small that is, when you add it all up that things really can change.
On a personal note, I was pleased to have the opportunity to attend such a worthwhile cause, which was a most beneficial experience. Seeing the work and progress that the organisation has achieved under Atalanti's leadership was uplifting, given the mainly negative coverage that the refugee crisis has brought. While I knew beforehand that more needs to be done, this and many other organisations are making concerted efforts to send out the message.
Have the U.S. public and media adopted, with insufficient evidence, a demonization of Putin? It's easy to do. Russia is the core of the former USSR, our Cold War enemy, and Putin, in his earlier career, was an intelligence operative. True, so was George Bush (the father) as director of the CIA, and true, the communist empire underwent a vast change under Gorbachev. But the demonization of Putin happened and is happening. Almost everybody I talk with is just sure that Putin is uniquely evil. Asked for evidence apart from official leaks, they look startled and respond that, as Leonard Cohen put it, "everybody knows." Especially if one hopes to overpower a foreign leader it is wise to see the world from his or her point of view, rather than only from our side. Of course this requires disentangling the practice of empathy from acceptance of propaganda, but that also applies, alas, to one's own leaders.The widespread and almost automatic demonization of Putin has been debunked by several analysts, including, for example, a writer for the American Herald Tribune, a former reporter for the A.P., and a retired Princeton & NYU professor of Russian studies.The latest person to challenge this demonization is Marcus Papadopoulos, editor of Politics First, a British British "nonpartisan" magazine. He spoke recently in the House of Lords. "The deterioration in relations between the United States and Russia is, in my estimation, the most dangerous reality facing the world at this moment," he began, and then described nature of the relations as it must look from the other side. "When a country is sidelined, has its views and concerns discarded, has its national security threatened, and observes its allies in the world being undermined and/or militarily attacked, sooner or later that country is going to respond."In his view, "the concept of national security resonates in a profoundly different way with a Russian [than] it does with an American or a Briton. Over a period of approximately 300 years, Russia was invaded by foreign armies on five occasions - and all five invasions came through Russian's western borders. In 1605, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth invaded; in 1708, Sweden invaded; in 1812, France invaded; in 1918, Imperial Germany invaded; and in 1941, Nazi Germany invaded. In contrast, the U.S. has not suffered invasion since the war of 1812. In any case, the U.S. has never had 27 million killed, as he says the USSR did during the second world war, or more than four times the ghastly holocaust of European Jews.Papadopoulos referred not only to Soviet deaths in the war, but also to the collapse of the USSR in 1992. "A meltdown," he called it. "The fabric of Russian society was torn to shreds. Russia had gone, overnight, from being a superpower to a country barely able to stand on its own two feet. For the US, which is the leader of the western world and of NATO, the Russian decline provided a golden opportunity to achieve American global hegemony."Referring to the Pentagon's Defense Planning Guidance of 1992, widely known as the Wolfowitz doctrine, the speaker quoted the key passage: "Our first objective," declared the Pentagon, "is to prevent the re-emergence of a new rival, either on the territory of the former Soviet Union or elsewhere, that poses a threat on the order of that posed formerly by the Soviet Union... We must maintain the mechanism for deterring potential competitors from even aspiring to a larger regional or global role."Soon, NATO was advancing eastward, into the former client states and some provinces of the USSR, including Ukraine, despite an oral promise made to Gorbachev that the western alliance would not move one inch toward the Russian border. "American and British politicians rarely, if at all, consider how they would respond if a Russian-led military alliance was on their borders; for example, in Mexico, Canada or France."Of course NATO views itself as a defensive organization, said Papadopoulos. This writer recalls a conference of security intellectuals in Berlin reviewing the familiar nightmare of eastern bloc troops racing across the Fulda gap. However, times change. Papadopoulos reminded his audience in the House of Lords that "in 1994 and 1995, NATO attacked the Bosnian Serbs, Russia's allies; in 1999, NATO bombed Serbia, a historic Russian ally; in 2003, NATO spearheaded the invasion of Iraq, who Russia had close relations with; in 2011, NATO intervened in Libya, which was Russia's eyes and ears in North Africa; and from 2011 to the present, the US, UK and France - all NATO members, of course - are attempting to overthrow the Syrian Government, which is Russia's eyes and ears in the Middle East." One does not have to agree with Russia in order to go through the exercise of seeing events as if from its side. Papadopoulos continued: "In late 2001, the US withdrew from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty, a cornerstone agreement for reducing tension between the US and Russia. The American withdrawal led to the formation by Washington of the Missile Defense Agency, which this year activated a missile defense shield in Eastern Europe..." NATO claims these missiles are to shoot down Iranian missiles launched toward Europe. However, because of U.S. diplomacy, Iran does not have nuclear missiles. Moscow may assume these bases are actually aiming at retaliatory Russian weapons that would be fired by Moscow.How would the US react, Papadopoulos asks, to "a Russian missile defense system in, say, Mexico or Canada? We all know how the Americans responded to the deployment of Soviet ICBMs to Cuba."In 1962 Khrushchev sent not only intercontinental ballistic missiles to Cuba, but also tactical nukes to repel a possible naval invasion by its neighbor to the north. In response, Kennedy's reaction was to deliver a televised talk, impose a "quarantine," and through his brother propose a deal, part of which was secret. The next June, about eight months later, he delivered a commencement address called "A Strategy of Peace." In this talk he imagined the war against Hitler as the Soviets must have experienced it. If a similar invasion had happened to us, JFK said, the country would have been occupied up to Chicago and much of the industrial base destroyed. When I visited Moscow in 1986 as a "citizen diplomat," people there still talked about that speech.In his exercise of empathy, Papadopoulos concluded that "Russia has a right to be heard on the international stage, to not be encircled, to not have a missile defense shield on its borders and to not have its allies in the world [such as Syria] targeted." He asked, "Did the Americans believe that Russia would countenance their country being encircled and weakened? How on earth were the Russians supposed to respond? Empathy was, and remains, absent in many American and British politicians."
The 12th leadership summit of the Iranian American Women Foundation (IAWF) was held in Washington D.C. today. Some 600 women joined together to network and mobilize to strengthen our bond as Iranian-Americans, to champion our contributions to this great country, and to acknowledge the remarkable work of the next generation of lawyers, environmentalists, bankers, artists, social workers, scientists, psychologists and journalists.
Photo: Rising Star panelists Nadia Farjood and Donya Nasser.
The changing media landscape featured Tara Bahrampour of The Washington Post, Sanaz Meshkinpour of NPR News, Tara Golshan of VOX and Sarah Ravani of The San Francisco Chronicle on Twitter.
Photo: Firoozeh Goudarznia of Eagle Bank steps into virtual reality at the IAWF conference.
From legacy newspaper reporting to breaking news on Twitter, podcasting at NPR and virtual reality, we discussed the engagement tools that are making journalism more participatory and immersive. Our panel also examined the critical role that traditional media and fact-checking play as the next generation of real-time storytelling emerges.
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Photo: Neda Nobari, Mariam Khosravani, Iran Davar Ardalan, Yeganeh Rezaian, Tara Bahrampour, Tara Golshan, Sanaz Meshkinpour.
The Founder of IAWF, Mariam Khosravani emphasized the imperative to continue building bridges and inspired the attendees to connect and network regardless of differences in politics, religion or socio-economic status. Today's daylong event included mentoring sessions with top executives from a variety of industries and causes.
Photo: Iran Davar Ardalan, Roshan Ardalan Alavi, Parisa Khosravi
Sorry, Orson. This time we're invading Mars, not the other way around.
National Geographic's ambitious six-part series Mars, which launches Monday at 9 p.m. ET, presents a full-throttle, all-in vision of how we Earthlings might actually, seriously, really open a colony on the Red Planet.
And not in some amorphous distant future. In 2033, which falls within many of our lifetimes.
Nat Geo is billing this as a docuseries, alternating screen time between two separate yet thematically intertwined productions.
The first part is a documentary on the history and feasibility of Martian exploration. While there remain skeptics, you won't find many of them here. The scientists, engineers and students of Mars all agree that it's only a matter of time.
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Director Everardo Gout and the Mars team have pegged that time as 2033, which may be arbitrary, but generally dovetails with the two most concrete plans for a visit.
Entrepreneur Elon Musk's SpaceX project will send people to Mars in the 2020s, Musk vows, while NASA has penciled in its first Martian mission for the 2030s.
Author Steven Petranek, whose book How We Will Live On Mars provided much of the impetus for this series, says that eventually these two parallel development teams, private and public, will join forces and that their combined effort will make a Mars mission both inevitable and less dangerous.
There is some debate in the larger space exploration community whether the 2020s or 2030s is a realistic target date. The technology theoretically exists now, they note, but refining and putting all the pieces together for a real-life mission may turn out to be a more extended process.
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The other half of Mars, the series, is a fictional drama imagining that first mission and dramatizing many of the risks inherent both in the trip and in the colonization.
We don't know, of course, exactly what we will find on Mars when we get there. It probably won't be the one-eyed green Gumby-like figures we've seen for decades in low-budget science fiction.
We do know, the series points out, that those first colonizers will need to bring everything with them. That includes not just a good supply of underwear and an extra pair of eyeglasses, but more basic requirements like food, oxygen and water. Also some heating devices, since Mars is a lot further from the warmth of the sun than our current planet.
To say all of that makes the first mission daunting would be understatement. On the positive side for TV viewers, all those dangers provide plenty of dramatic material for the fictional expedition.
Gout, Petranek and others stress that while this story of that expedition may have been made up, the science behind it is accurately portrayed. If you see it on the screen, they say, it's something the real-life explorers will also see.
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That means some problems will not be resolved with 100% satisfaction and survival. If an explorer needs an experienced cardio-thorassic surgeon for an emergency operation on Mars, that explorer may be out of luck.
Still, Petranek is among those who think a Mars colony is imperative for human survival. He notes that Earth has suffered multiple extinction events in the past and argues that it's only a matter of time before the next errant meteorite ends life as we know it on this planet.
Mars, he says, is our best backup plan.
Many other real-life folks, though, like many of the characters on the fictional mission, want to go to Mars for another reason: because it's there.
They see Mars as the modern-day equivalent of the New World to which Europeans sailed in the late 15th and early 16th centuries.
Those explorers too were plunging into the unknown, betting everything they could arrive and survive, because there was little or no chance of getting help if they couldn't manage on their own.
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It may take a special kind of person to seek that thrill, but there are apparently no shortage of those special people, since the real-life Martian missions have legions of eager volunteers.
Apparently, people are so frustrated and outraged by Trump's victory, they've begun contemplating some fairly radical strategies by which to thwart or stop him. In their most wildly optimistic moments, they even imagine forcing Trump to resign the presidency and return to real estate or show business, or whatever the hell he was doing before he decided to enter politics.
Of course, as crazy implausible as a resignation scenario is, it would also result in Vice President-elect Mike Pence being catapulted into the presidency, which clearly comes with its own set of concerns.
After all, what do we know about Pence other than being an obscure senator from Virginia? No, wait, that wasn't Pence; that was Tim Kaine. Wasn't Pence the former governor of New Mexico? Nope, that was Gary Johnson. Pence was Indiana. In any event, whoever he is, Trump chose him as his running mate (and more menacingly, he agreed to join the "Trump for America" ticket), which doesn't bode well.
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Some of the more outlandish ideas we've heard involve extreme applications of civil disobedience or disruption. Here are some examples.
It has been suggested we inundate President Trump with lawsuits, force him to deal with hundreds if not thousands of them a month--lawsuits of every sort. Do this until he cries "Uncle." Let's not forget that it was the Republicans themselves who, with Barack Obama squarely in their crosshairs, insisted a sitting president could in fact be sued. We shall make them pay for that wish.
Another idea is to adopt a version of Governor Chris Christie's revenge tactic of purposely gridlocking the George Washington bridge in order to punish a political rival. But we add a wrinkle. We apply that childish tactic to the jury system, and by so doing bring to a virtual standstill the entire U.S. judicial apparatus.
We do this by resorting to "jury nullification." Juries have enormous power, and the plan is predicated upon marshaling that power. Instead of reaching verdicts in civil or criminal trials, we citizens make sure that all trials end in "hung juries," causing the entire system to tread water and stall out until it collapses under its own weight.
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Another idea is to bring the formidable Internal Revenue Service (IRS) itself to an inexorable, grinding halt. We do this by having all taxpayers intentionally and methodically withhold $20.00 from their tax returns. That's it: $20.00, no more, no less.
While no one is going to be formally prosecuted by the feds for being a measly twenty bucks light, the IRS will nonetheless be unable to close out any of our tax files. That missing $20.00 will prevent them from doing this. And being unable to close out the tax accounts of tens of millions of taxpayers will plunge the system into chaos.
These are only some of the "unconventional" tactics being suggested.
Still, even if some these idiosyncratic civil disobedience tactics actually "succeeded" in mucking up the system, once the smoke cleared, we would wake up to find that the Republicans still control the White House, the Supreme Court, the U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives, which is to say the Republicans still "own" the country.
In which case, the only option open to Democrats, Libertarians and "anti-Trumpers" would be to focus entirely on the grassroots level--take back political power one city council, one school board, one state assembly, one gubernatorial office at a time. This is how the Koch brothers managed to shift the country so far to the Right--by building a foundation from the bottom up.
A sobering thought: If civil disobedience and "boutique anarchy" turned out to be useful tactics, these same tactics could be used by anyone, and not just disgruntled Democrats. One cringes at what the Trumpanistas would have done with them had Hillary Clinton won.
Many governments persecute people of religious faith. However, one nation stands out: North Korea.
Getting accurate information on the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is difficult, since today's communist state lives up to ancient Korea's nickname of the "Hermit Kingdom." Before World War II missionaries were active throughout the peninsula, then a Japanese colony, and more than a fifth of the population was Christian. Between 300,000 and 500,000 Christians are believed to remain in North Korea today. Refugees from the North report religious involvement ranging from 1.2 percent participating in to 5.1 percent witnessing secret religious activities.
The DPRK ostentatiously treats anyone of faith, but especially Christians, as hostile. Believers place loyalty to God before that of the North Korean state. Churches allow people to act and organize outside of state entities. Christianity also has ties to a world seen as almost uniformly threatening by Pyongyang.
Open Doors recently rated the DPRK number one for the 14th year in a row on the group's "World Watch List." Explained Open Doors: "Christianity is not only seen as 'opium of the people' as is normal for all communist states; it is also seen as deeply Western and despicable. Christians try to hide their faith as far as possible to avoid arrest and being sent to a labor camp. Thus, being Christian has to be a well-protected secret, even within families, and most parents refrain from introducing their children to the Christian faith in order to make sure that nothing slips their tongue when they are asked."
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Last year the British group Aid to the Church in Need published a persecution report which figured that some 50,000 Christians may currently be in the DPRK's penal camps. The organization warned that the Kim Jong-un regime appeared to be tightening controls over potential dissent, including a vigorous crackdown on Christians. Aid reported that "Since 1953, at least 200,000 Christians have gone missing. If caught by the regime, unauthorized Christians face arrest torture or in some cases public execution."
Even the United Nations, which has a decidedly mixed record on human rights, confronted the DPRK two years ago. A special Commission of Inquiry pointed to the "almost complete denial of the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion." Believers "are prohibited from practicing their religion" and punished severely if disobedient. The ruling regime "considers the spread of Christianity a particularly severe threat."
A new report from Christian Solidarity Worldwide offers a detailed look at religious persecution in the North. Entitled "Total Denial: Violations of Freedom of Religion or Belief in North Korea," the study paints a tragic picture. Persecution has been official state policy since the DPRK's creation and believers "suffer significantly because of the anti-revolutionary and imperialist labels attached to them by the country's leadership."
All people of faith are categorized as "hostile" (the other two broad classes or songbun groups are "core" and "wavering"). It is notably better to be Shaman than Christian, and slightly worse to be Catholic than Protestant. CSW identifies six different periods of North Korean policy toward religion.
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Faith was restricted during in the Soviet occupation zone from 1945-1948 and more actively suppressed by the new North Korean state through 1953. Religious liberty was "obliterated" from 1954 to 1971. Then policy shifted to use religious organizations for advantage from 1972 to 1987. From 1988-1997 the regime operated religious facilities. Since then there has been "intense persecution of increasing unofficial religious activities."
In a system in which the political leader is essentially deified, all faiths suffer. Indeed, the constitution actually describes religion as "foreign intervention."
However, both Shamanism and Buddhism are seen as part of Korean culture and believed to pose less of a challenge to the communist system. As a result, there are numerous Buddhist and Cheondoist temples. However, those who practice Buddhism, noted CSW, still risk "imprisonment, forced labor, poor living and sanitary conditions, abuse, violence and torture." The regime is less repressive toward Shamanism since "the belief is deeply rooted in culture and society." In fact, party officials reportedly have seen fortune-tellers, apparently something seen as having fewer anti-state overtones.
Christianity suffers most grievously. A former North Korean security agent told CSW that Christianity "is so persecuted because basically, it is related to the United States" and is believed to provide an opportunity for espionage. In addition, Christian theology holds political rules subject to God's judgment.
Most Christians worship secretly. If discovered, they are "taken to political camps (kwanliso); crimes against them in these camps include extra-judicial killing, extermination, enslavement/forced labor, forcible transfer of population, arbitrary imprisonment, torture, persecution, enforced disappearance, rape and sexual violence and other inhuman acts." CSW reports documented cases of believers being "hung on a cross over a fire, crushed under a steamroller, herded off bridges, and trampled underfoot."
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The North has only five official Christian churches, all located in Pyongyang: three Protestant, one Catholic, and one Russian Orthodox (opened after Kim Jong-il visited Moscow and apparently was taken with the architecture). Any "religious freedom is extremely limited and may be aimed primarily at visitors and foreigners," warns CSW. In fact, I visited one during my trip to North Korea a quarter century ago. The [South] Korean Christian Federation claims the existence of 500 house churches, though by their nature they are extremely difficult to count.
The existence of formal religious organizations for Christian denominations suggests toleration of religion, but notes CSW, evidence unsurprisingly suggests "use of these formal facilities, organizations and institutions for political means." Indeed, the report cites the conclusions of others "that North Korea uses religious organizations as a survival strategy to seek goods and support from, and improve their image with, other religious organizations worldwide--especially those from South Korea."
In fact, a delegation of South Korean Catholics visited the North last December at the invitation of the [North] Korean Catholic Association. Previous trips, noted a spokesman for the Catholic Bishops' Conference of [South] Korea, were held in conjunction with aid programs. The DPRK long has sought outside support to cover the cost of its own failed policies.
Still, according to CSW, there is good news: "Since the 2000s unofficial Christian religious activities have been increasing, partly because of the influence of defectors who entered China and were then returned to North Korea, bringing the Christian faith they had been exposed to in China." It is ironic that communist China, which continues to persecute religious believers, but not nearly to the degree of the DPRK, has become a source of evangelism for the North.
North Korea may be the worst place on earth for a religious person, virulently hostile to believers. The regime's attempt to appear accommodating to international groups and organizations notwithstanding, believers face the worst punishments imaginable when acting on their deepest convictions.
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Although the problem of persecution is obvious, not so the solution. CSW urges the DPRK government to reform--surely the only proper course, but one that seems extremely unlikely. The group also recommends referral of the North to the International Criminal Court, which, however, cannot reach into Pyongyang against its will. If Western pressure backed by economic sanctions and military threats have not stopped the North from developing nuclear weapons, they aren't likely to force political changes that the regime would view as directed at its ouster.
Over the long-term, however, the growth of Christianity itself may prove to be the ultimate remedy, just as the People's Republic of China abandoned Maoist madness and now is struggling to accommodate the presence of more Christians than Communist Party members. The West should consider strategies to reduce the perceived threat of forcible regime change, encourage increased international engagement, and improve access to information in hope of fostering internal forces for change.
1.The elites know nothing. It is not only that every op ed columnist or talking head predicted the election incorrectly. More importantly, they had no idea of what was going on in the country. Krugman described the Obama Presidency as a smashing success that had eliminated poverty and saved the economy. Blow described the country as moving toward a multicultural, multiracial democracy, white people as an out-of-fashion retrograde minority. All the elites justified Obama and Clinton's theory of "baby steps," constantly repeating the President can't do much. Wait and see how much the President can do.
2.We need a new national newspaper. The New York Times has done many terrible things, such as legitimating the war in Iraq but they set a new low in their coverage of this election. Every headline for a year was some putdown of Trump. They just occupied as the mouthpiece for Hillary, whose idea of a campaign was to go on about how bad Trump is. Just consider this: The New York Times has many, many feminist, gay, Black spokespeople and so forth as columnists, not to mention conservatives, but not one person who speaks from a Sanders-like position (democratic socialism).
3.Feminism is no substitute for a Left. Feminism is needed and is a good thing, even the shallow male-baiting feminism of people like Lena Dunham and Elizabeth Warren is useful, though I find it repulsive myself. But feminism cannot substitute for a left. This country is run by the wealthy; class is what organizes social relations-- in education, housing, even law, not to mention global power. And please don't tell me the rich people are mostly white men. That's not even true.
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4.African-Americans need new leaders. Obama is a product of the government crackdown on the Black Community in the 1960s and 70s. Figures like Malcolm X, Martin Luther King and Fred Hampton were murdered and a new generation of conservative, deferential "pragmatists" like Obama, Corey Booker and Charles Rangell were produced. This is the generation that supported Clinton, undoubtedly the least inspiring, least representative candidate they could find. Without the Black primary vote Sanders would have been the candidate and even if he lost, the Democrats would stand for something. Black Lives Matter, many of whose activists supported Sanders, is critical here, but violent confrontation will not help at this point.
Civility Pulaw/Perlou/Pilaf
While I love a one-pot wonder, this dish pays homage to your classic pilafs and pulaws. It's done in stages, with the rice and sauce cooked separately. They're layered then baked together. It's amazing how the vegetables perfume and permeate the rice. Like Hillary Clinton's campaign slogan, they're stronger together. So are we. I still believe that.
The pilaf keeps well, and its flavors are even headier the next day. Nice, by the way, for Thanksgiving, a time when America comes together with gratitude (or something like it).
3 cups water or vegetable broth, divided use
1 cup rice of your choosing -- I used a blend of brown basmati and wild rice
2 tablespoon olive oil
1-1/2 teaspoons turmeric
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon allspice
1 onion, chopped
2 cups green beans, chopped
1 cup broccoli or cauliflower, chopped
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 large tomato, chopped or 1 cup grape tomatoes
juice of 2 limes
2 tablespoons raisins
sea salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
Bring 2 cups water or broth to boil in a large pot. Pour in rice. Cover and reduce heat to low. Let rice cook for 25 minutes or until the grains become plump and tender and absorb all the liquid.
Remove lid from pot and let the rice cool May be done a day ahead before proceeding.
Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add turmeric, cinnamon and allspice and stir for a minute or until spices darken and turn fragrant. Add chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for another 4 minutes, until onion mellows and softens.
Add green beans and broccoli or caulifower and continue cooking, stirring to give the vegetables a luster from the spiced oil.
Add tomato paste, chopped tomatoes and water. Stir to combine. Squeeze in lime juice. Add raisins, season with sea salt and pepper.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly oil a large casserole.
Lay down half the rice. Top with half of the tomato mixture, repeat with the rice and end by covering with the tomatoes and vegetables.
Bake, tightly covered, for 30 minutes.
Serves 4.
The morning after Election Day, I found myself in a very small college town in rural Pennsylvania where people were celebrating the victory of their candidate. That forced me to accept the fact that, more or less, 50% of those who cast their vote have not only supported Trump as next president of the United States, but also changed the political balance in Congress, with all the consequences this entails. What this new landscape reveals has deep repercussions, as aggressive expressions of xenophobia, racism, homophobia, and sexism have been normalized and made acceptable for large segments of Americans. This is the reality that many of us will have to deal with on a daily basis in the most common interactions, from going to school to shopping and even just existing as a visibly different person.
I felt combative, more than confrontational. I had been invited to participate in a student workshop and give talks, finding myself reflecting on how the election would shape my role and duty as an educator, a researcher, a public intellectual, a writer, and as a practitioner. Of course, I do not have clear answers and my considerations are personal. I have no intention to tell anybody how and when to work through their own fears, grief, and anger, or how to navigate the future. For me, a core question is: how will I make use of and invest my privilege as a white male of European descent (although an immigrant), whose job is to teach and do research in food studies? What can I contribute as a professional?
That day, I participated in a workshop where students were discussing possible -and easily feasible - innovations to shift the way their peers eat in the cafeteria towards more sustainable and healthier models. While we were evaluating different practical interventions, I also moved the conversation toward the gender, class, and race identity issues underlying food-related behaviors, as well as their social and economic consequences in terms of accessibility, affordability, labor relations, and the environment. Later that afternoon, I gave a talk on food, film, and memory, where I tried to show how an apparently innocuous and fun form of popular culture such as food films can actually reflect, support, and reinforce values and practices that are predicated on the framing of whole categories of people as inferior and exploitable.
My work focuses on food, which may come across as apolitical but is actually profoundly entangled with power dynamics, social structures, and environmental issues that assume immediate, tangible meanings. As food did not emerge as a priority in the presidential debates and the discussions that surrounded them, it is not easy to gauge the direction of the new administration. However, the promise of greater deregulation, less EPA control, and the overall skeptical attitude towards climate change will move environmental issues connected to agriculture, fishing, and animal husbandry front and center.
The new administration's favorable attitude towards the carbon-based energy industry could also slow down the efforts to increase the use of renewable resources in the food system and to shift towards more sustainable models. These issues will become crucial in the negotiations around the upcoming farm bill, where not only will Congress determine the future of US food production, but also the availability of funds to support the most vulnerable sections of the population through school food, SNAP, WIC and other programs.
In this context, it is important to emphasize not only structural and economic features, but also the cultural and social aspects that can generate dynamics of oppression and injustice. I believe my first call is to help students and the community at large outside of universities and intellectual circles recognize the relevance of these matters. In food studies, we now have sufficient students, programs, institutions, and relative media visibility to have some impact.
Above all, I am afraid I can't enjoy the luxury of separating theory and applied practice any longer. It becomes crucial to pair the insights and the analysis that are central to food studies with hands-on projects and initiatives for change and social innovation. I will be moving my research and activities towards collaborations with designers, agronomists, scientists, engineers, information experts, and media operators, so that my teaching, writing, and doing become expression of a more profound engagement with the new reality.
A friend of mine in Brazil reminded me of the Italian politician and theorist Antonio Gramsci's thoughts on organic intellectuals, who share their knowledge and competence to usher change rather than concentrating uniquely on their professional world. It is urgent to devise creative strategies and form inclusive alliances around widely shared concerns in the food system, while questioning the priorities of the elites (which include myself) as well as the interests of the rich and the powerful. This election has brought home that what I make of the emerging political reality is also my responsibility. At least for me, the answer is rolling up my sleeves to get down to work.
By Diana Brazzell, Footnote
This article was produced in consultation with Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government and was originally published on Footnote, a website that brings academic research and ideas to a broader audience.
Imagine you live in a small village in rural Kenya. Your daughter attends university in Nairobi and needs financial support to buy textbooks and pay her rent. How do you send her money if you, like many Kenyans, don't have a bank account or internet access?
In the U.S., the answer would be simple. In fact, you would have an abundance of options: PayPal, Venmo, online banking, checks, money orders, or good old-fashioned cash. Many people around the world, however, don't have access to the financial services some of us take for granted. Two billion "unbanked" adults, mostly in developing countries, face barriers to tasks as simple as receiving wages or sending money to family members. Without access to banking services, their finances are unstable because they don't have a good way to save for the future or borrow in times of need.
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Getting people access to formal financial services is called financial inclusion and it is a critical part of equitable economic development, says Jay Rosengard, Adjunct Lecturer in Public Policy at the Harvard Kennedy School. Research shows that by lowering transaction costs and helping spread risk and capital across the economy, financial inclusion improves the livelihood of individual families and spurs local and national economic growth. Financial inclusion can be particularly powerful for women and other marginalized groups who have traditionally been excluded from the formal economy and had less control over their own finances.
When up to 90% of your population doesn't have a bank account, how do you bring them into the financial system quickly and easily? Rosengard believes Kenya has struck on a promising solution: mobile banking. His latest research paper shows that, thanks to mobile banking, the share of Kenyans with access to a financial account jumped from 42% in 2011 to 75% in 2014. Financial inclusion skyrocketed among the poorest citizens, from 21% of people with a financial account in 2011 to 63% in 2014, growth of more than 200% in just three short years.
"The magic of mobile banking lies in its simplicity and low cost," said Rosengard. "All you need to get started is an old-school flip phone, available for less than $10 U.S. dollars, and a banking SIM card. Then you can send and receive money over text message, no smartphone or special app required. Customers mostly rely on the service for person-to-person (P2P) payments, but are increasingly using it to pay merchants, utility companies, and other businesses."
Rosengard's research finds that mobile banking has transformed how Kenyans manage their money. On Safaricom's M-PESA, which is by far the most popular service in the country, 19 million users now send 15 billion Kenyan shillings in payments each day - the equivalent of $150 million U.S. dollars. This growth has allowed Kenya to zoom past other countries when it comes to financial inclusion. The share of people with access to a financial account in Kenya is more than double that of other sub-Saharan African countries and almost triple the typical rate in low-income countries worldwide.
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This mobile banking revolution has also created greater financial stability for Kenyan families. A 2014 study found that people using M-PESA were able to handle major hits to their income - such as a bad harvest, a job loss, or a failing business - without having to curb their household's consumption. The primary way they weathered these storms was by getting help from family and friends through funds sent over M-PESA. In comparison, the study found that Kenyans who did not use M-PESA had to reduce their household spending by an average of 7% in response to financial challenges.
For developing countries where traditional banking is limited, Rosengard sees mobile banking as a potential shortcut to financial inclusion. Nations that already have a robust banking sector and widespread access to financial services, like the United States and South Africa, can depend on existing banks to offer services online, with upstarts like PayPal and Venmo pushing the envelope.
In developing countries, however, a tool like mobile banking can be transformational. Rosengard explained how, instead of growing the conventional banking sector's physical presence and slowly bringing the "unbanked" into the system, mobile banking allows countries to immediately bring financial services to the masses in a cheap, accessible way.
Mobile banking isn't the first new technology that has helped countries leapfrog certain stages of development and progress more quickly. Cell phones had this impact in sub-Saharan Africa in the 2000s. As mobile phone ownership boomed, countries were able to skip over the landline telephone phase and rapidly bring modern communication to their citizens. The rate of cell phone ownership in Kenya (82%) is now almost as high as in the United States (89%).
Could mobile banking foster a similar transformation, bringing financial services to the masses and spurring equitable economic development? Rosengard and other experts think so.
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"For the Kenyan family able to send their daughter money for school, mobile banking could mean the difference between her dropping out to work or graduating, securing a better career, and, down the line, being able to send money back home in times of need," Rosengard said. "Now multiply that impact by the two billion other unbanked people across the world whose lives could be changed by a cheap flip phone and a simple banking program, offering a path to more equitable, inclusive economic growth."
Sidenotes
(a) According to the World Bank, only 43% of Kenyans accessed the internet within the past year and 55% have an account at a financial institution. For comparison, 87% of people in the U.S. use the internet and 94% have a bank account.
(b) While financial inclusion is less of a problem in developed countries, it is still a major barrier for the poor. In the U.S., for example, 6% of adults do not have a bank account and 24% do not have a debit card.
(c) The World Bank defines having access to a "financial account" as having an account at a bank or other type of financial institution, such as a credit union, microfinance institution, or cooperative, or using a mobile money service, such as mobile banking, within the past year.
Endnotes
Review of The Tragedy of U.S. Foreign Policy: How America's Civil Religion Betrayed the National Interest. By Walter A. McDougall. Harvard University Press. 408 pp. $30.
Nearly fifty years ago, the sociologist Robert Bellah coined the term "civil religion." A non-sectarian creed that makes use of sacred symbols, rituals, holidays, heroes, martyrs and myths, civil religion, Bellah indicated, helps secure and sustain national unity. But civil religion also had a dark side, especially when it encourages a messianic determination to impose the will and the ways of "the New Israel" on others.
In The Tragedy of U.S. Foreign Policy, Walter McDougall, a professor of history and international relations at the University of Pennsylvania, examines the role of civil religion "on the motivation and justification" of foreign policy throughout American history. Civil religion, he acknowledges, can bind diverse groups together and stimulate sacrifices for the collective good in times of depression, disaster and war. McDougall maintains, however, that civil religion "turns toxic when twisted into a Jacobin creed peddled to people at home...and forced "down foreign throats at gunpoint." And, he concludes, "the deformation" of civil religion has ended by devouring America itself."
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Drawing on the written and oral comments of U.S. presidents and political, religious, intellectual and corporate elites, McDougall demonstrates the pervasiveness of the discourse of civil religion. Although the New Deal was the first wholly secular reform movement in American history, he points out that, "as the high priest of the civil religion," Franklin D. Roosevelt had to persuade Americans "that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed" (Romans 8:18) And, as the leader of the fight against atheistic communism, President Dwight Eisenhower, who had not attended church while he was at West Point, began his inaugural by "asking the privilege of uttering a private prayer of my own"; signed into law a bill inserting "under God" into the Pledge of Allegiance; keynoted the American Legion's Back to God Convention; and signed resolutions to make "In God We Trust" the national motto.
Unfortunately, McDougall does not distinguish between the use of civil religion in the making and in the selling of American foreign policy. He understands that "no public policy, political system, ideology, or civil religion that is unsupported by an economic base is likely to last long." He indicates that President Eisenhower "never let civil religion interfere with his strategy, operations, and tactics." And yet, he asserts, rather simplistically, that during the Cold War civil religion "required" recalcitrant Republicans and Dixiecrats "to pretend (at least) to practice what it preached about racial equality and social uplift lest it make a mockery of its own propaganda throughout the decolonized world."
Most important, McDougall's book provides abundant evidence that civil religion has been used to justify policies across the political spectrum. "Empire obtained by force is un-republican," Senator Charles Sumner wrote in the mid-nineteenth century, for example, and offensive to the principle "according to which all just government stands only on the consent of the governed." And, according to McDougall, FDR used the rhetoric of civil religion to promote isolationist policies in the mid-1930s and intervention at the end of the decade.
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At the roots of The Tragedy of U.S. Foreign Policy, it seems clear, is the claim that the Spanish American War was the moment at which constraints against all overseas crusades eroded, "devolved Protestant fanaticism burst its chains," the Constitution became a dead letter, war powers no longer resided in Congress, and "Washington's World turned into Wilson's World."
That world is anathema to McDougall, whose assault on the interventionist presidents of the United States in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries is unrelenting and, at times, over the top. Wilson, McDougall writes, "imagined the way to serve God was by sacrificing U.S. national interest on the altar of humanity." Although he should have known that "most of his principles, not least national self-determination could not be applied to most of the human race" and that war "would oblige him to sacrifice his domestic agenda, violate civil liberties and invite Americans to indulge violent and bigoted instincts," Wilson "chose to flip the last civil religious 'thou shall nots' into commandments." Although Germany wasn't all that bad - Wilson "yielded nothing" to the Kaiser in terms of executive power - the American president hurled his nation into war "in order to prove, like a pagan priest-king, that his tribal gods were mightier than theirs."
McDougall claims as well that FDR deferred to isolationists in the 1930s because their arguments "were many and mighty," whereas those in favor of rearmament and intervention "were few and flaccid." And that the president pretended World War II was "a civil religious crusade for human rights and fundamental freedoms," while setting up concentration camps for U.S. citizens of Japanese descent, ignoring evidence of genocide against Jews, persisting in racial segregation in the armed forces and abandoning "even the pretense of humanitarianism" by authorizing the carpet bombing of German and Japanese cities.
The decision of President George W. Bush to initiate "two protracted conflicts whose carnage and ruin dwarfed that of 9/11 itself," McDougall writes, "almost lends credence to the theory that messianic republics must engage in periodic blood sacrifice as a sort of totem worship."
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In this post I want us to once again stroll the decks of the Laconia, the ship on which my father was a passenger on its maiden voyage. The year was 1922/1923, and this was the first round-the-world trip by a passenger ship since Magellan. There were many ground-breaking aspects to this incredible voyage, which led the way to opening up the world to travel. It was a life-changing event for its lucky participants because, unlike today, the passengers didn't know what to expect.
I love the old photographs my family has of life aboard this extraordinary ship. On December 6, 1922, a fancy dress ball on the R.M.S. Laconia was held. Everyone was decked out in amazing costumes, and my father - always the comedian--came dressed as a sailor in a wooden barrel. I was able to enlarge the photograph, and my father's smile tells you a lot about his personality. Also, on the back of an incredible breakfast menu from this elegant cruise, is my father's cartoon sketch of his costume. (To view these photos, go to Dr. Helen Davey Facebook page and "like" it.)
Now we'll return to my father's handwritten letters from almost 100 years ago.
Jan. 11/23. In the Yellow Sea. One hundred miles south of Shantung. Bound for Shanghai.
The Laconia had set sail for China from Japan. My father writes, "Yesterday made dock at Tsingtau." Tsingtau is now called "Qingdau." In this very year of 1923, it was given back to China from Japan: the map was constantly changing.
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My father continues, "While we were at lunch, we heard American songs being sung outside so we rushed through the meal and onto deck. There was your (this letter was written to my Uncle Paul Davey) old friend Giouque and his school boys. It was really quite thrilling to all on board and very unexpected in this part of the world."
"I hollered 'Hey Chuck' and he turned around mighty quick; nobody had called him 'Chuck' for many years. Of course he didn't know me at first but I wasn't long identifying myself. I might not have known him except for the fact that I knew he was in Tsingtau. He is much heavier now but looks well."
"Mrs. Giouque was down also; she seems to be very nice. They have a boy about four and lost a girl last year about a year and a half old. We had them all, including about twenty school boys come aboard. In the afternoon he went around the city with us and later he and Mrs. Giouque came to the Laconia to dinner with us and stayed to a dance in the evening. Mary and I both like them very much and rather hated to pull out of the harbour leaving two perfectly good Americans so darned far from Broadway. They've been out here six years - oh boy!"
Inside this letter I found an old folded postcard photograph of the American Academy, Tsingtau, China. On it, my father has written, "This is Chuck's School!" It was a large and impressive building, with an American flag waving in front.
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My father continues, "Tell Mart (another brother) that I ran across an old friend of his at the reception tendered us by the Chamber of Commerce (Tsingtau). H.H.Kung was in Oberlin at the time he was and now seems to be a man of considerable prominence and influence in China."
"Mr. Lin, a graduate of Yale Forestry School asked me to please convey his profound respect to the honorable Doctor of Trees; he knew Dad by reputation." (This refers to my grandfather John Davey, the "Father of Tree Surgery.") "I was glad to learn that they are beginning to pay some attention to forestry or rather reforestation in China - it is to a great extent a treeless country. It would be a great object lesson to Americans if they could see the Chinese going through the country gathering up every available weed stem or anything that will make sufficient fire to cook a bit of rice; they have no fire for heat."
As a naturalist and tree expert, my father was shocked to observe close up the effect on human beings of the ignorance about the importance of conservation of natural resources.
You can hear his concern when he says, "You may get some idea as to the utter depletion of the soil and the great value of humus when I tell you that there were perhaps 50 or 100 men and boys, along the route of our droskies at Port Arthur, waiting to capture any droppings from the scrawny little ponies. In some instances they hardly permitted it to hit the ground and in some cases nearly fought for it - poor devils! " (Port Arthur, now "Lushunkou District" bounced between Russian and Japanese rule until it was ceded to China after WWII: thus the "droskies", Russian carriages, were common.)
My father worries "In our country we still have such a wealth of humus (comparatively) and some timber still remains. I wonder what the situation will be in a few more generations." I shudder to think what my father and grandfather would think about the state of the planet now.
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He continues, "Now that the Chinese are once more in control of Tsingtau, it will be interesting to note the progress made by the young Chinese now that they have been given an opportunity here. Perhaps they could match the competence of the Japanese."
Jan. 16/23. In Formosa Straights - Bound from Keelung (Formosa) to Hong Kong.
Again my father comments on the problem of deforestation around the world: "As we proceeded from Tsingtau to Shanghai we found that the Yellow Sea became more and more yellow and that the East China Sea, which is a continuation of the Yellow Sea, was almost chocolate color. The best part of the continent of Asia is being washed out to sea - America can well take a lesson from what is happening as a result of the destruction of the forests of China."
Port cities around the world were not yet ready for large ships. My father writes, "Because of her size the Laconia could not get clear up to Shanghai. We anchored in the Yangstze off Wosung and went by tender about twelve miles. Shanghai is quite occidental in appearance as you approach and disembark along the Bund."
My father and his first wife Mary were wined and dined by people all around the world. He says, "We have a friend in Sound Beach (Old Greenwich) who is a director of one of the big oil companies and he has advised the branch managers in most of our ports of call that we are aboard the Laconia. They go to great trouble to locate us and to entertain us. Club life seems to be about everything for occidentals out here. Few of them regard the East as their permanent home so they build beautiful clubs and spend most of their time there. We visited the English, French, and Shanghai clubs, all very fine."
My father states that "Shanghai is under international control. The British govern one part of the city and the French another part. I was quite surprised to find big East Indians acting as policemen in the English section."
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He continues, "We were taken by auto a considerable distance into the country and were especially impressed by the very large percentage of the land which is devoted to burial mounds. After hundreds of years of planting their dead on their choicest lands it has come to be a serious economic problem. The fields outside Shanghai are absolutely dotted with mounds. They simply set the casket on the ground and pile from five to ten feet of dirt on it. In many instances they leave the casket setting in the open and in other cases they build a little brick vault around it. In any case it is a very serious offense to disturb a grave. In building roads and railroads you can imagine what they are up against."
I remember as a child hearing my father telling of the horrors of Shanghai: "We went down to the native section of Shanghai - I have never seen such filth and human wreckage - nor do I want to see it again. Among other things was a two-year-old dead baby lying in the gutter. It's very disturbing. There's a strong likelihood we won't go to Canton owing to local warfare up there."
My curiosity piqued, I was able to research on the Internet some of the relevant history of Shanghai. It had been administered concurrently by the British, French, and Americans, all independent of Chinese law. Each of these colonial presences brought its own particular culture, architecture, and society. Even though Shanghai had its own walled Chinese city, many native residents chose to live in the foreign settlements. Therefore, this mixing of cultures shaped Shanghai's openness to Western influence. By 1930 (seven years after my father's visit) Shanghai had become an important industrial center and trading port, and was known as "the Paris of the East."
In its heyday, Shanghai was the place to be, with the best art, architecture, and strongest business in Asia. "With dance halls, brothels, glitzy restaurants, international clubs, and even a foreign-run racetrack, Shanghai was a city that catered to every whim of the rich" (Wikipedia). However, dire poverty ran alongside opulence, and it was the cheap labor of the lower-class Chinese that kept the city running. Shanghai became known as a place of vice and indulgence. "Amid this glamour and degradation the Communist Party held its first meeting in 1921" (Wikipedia). It was held two years before my father's visit.
Eventually the Japanese invaded and occupied Shanghai. After the ending of WWII, a three-year civil war broke out with fighting between the Nationalists and Communists for Control of China. The Communists declared victory in 1949 and established the People's Republic of China, with all foreigners leaving the country. "Closed off from the outside world with which it had become so comfortable, Shanghai fell into a deep sleep. Fashion, music, and romance gave way to uniformity and the stark reality of Communism (Wikipedia)." Only in the 1990's did Shanghai wake up once more under Deng Xiaoping's economic redevelopment of the city to become the showpiece of the booming economy of mainland China.
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I was also able to check out what the local warfare in Canton was all about that prevented the Laconia from traveling there in 1923. Son Yat-Sen and his close ally Chiang Kai- Shek were involved. In one of those one-degree-of-separation stories that I love, my first cousin Vangie Davey (Smith) attended Wellesley College in the early 1930's. Madame Chiang Kai-Shek often visited Wellesley, her beloved alma mater, and my cousin was able to meet this famous woman whom she greatly admired and often mentioned.
My father's reaction to the horrible scenes in Shanghai was not the end, nor the worst of the scenes my father would see as he traveled around the world. The Pan Am family can certainly attest to the shocking scenes we saw all over the globe, breaking down our sense of naivete and denial. While we experienced an incredible sense of glamour, much of what we saw represented a world full of indescribable trauma. It bonded us in an inexplicable way, just as did the loss of our crews and airplanes in various disasters over the years.
The amazing aspect of working for Pan American World Airways, and one that we can only realize in hindsight, is that we were privileged to be living in a globalized world long before anyone called it that. With its amazing route structure laid down in the 1930's, "Pan Am's World" stretched around the globe into hitherto totally unknown places. We were the beneficiaries of that legacy, just as I was the beneficiary of my father's legacy.
How I love following in my father's footsteps through his letters and sharing with you his impressions of the world so long ago!
American students protest outside the UN climate talks during the COP22 international climate conference in Marrakesh in reaction to Donald Trump's victory in the US presidential election, on November 9, 2016.Stunned participants at UN climate talks in Marrakesh insisted that climate change denier Donald Trump cannot derail the global shift to clean energy, although some called his victory in US presidential elections a 'disaster'. / AFP / FADEL SENNA (Photo credit should read FADEL SENNA/AFP/Getty Images)
Late last week, Trump's transition team put up a website that lists its top priorities for their administration. For those of us concerned with maintaining a somewhat livable planet, looking at the energy section is like reading a vivid description of your worst nightmare.
Mine all the coal. Drill all the oil. Defund the EPA. Cancel the Paris Agreement. Kill all environmental regulations.
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Bringing back drill, baby, drill isn't enough for the Trump team: they're looking to bring back Sarah Palin herself as Secretary of Interior.
Let's face it: the door to national climate action as we know it has been slammed shut. Trump is the only world leader who denies climate change. He has no interest in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. He's shown little support for clean energy. There's zero chance he'd approve a carbon tax.
But when you're trapped in a burning building and the door has been barred, you don't just sit on the floor and watch the flames: you put out what you can and start looking for the windows.
Our planet is that burning building and it's time to double down on our role as firefighters.
First, before Trump can set the world ablaze, we need to push the Obama administration to fireproof everything they can. That means employing whatever legal and regulatory measures possible to defend the progress that has been made. It also means saying no to the Dakota Access Pipeline and new fossil fuel projects, not because Trump won't try and approve them, but because it's the right thing to do, and because it will open up the possibility of fighting these projects in the courts and buy us some time.
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Obama also needs to stop pushing the Trans Pacific Partnership. That toxic trade deal, that both Trump and Clinton opposed, has inside of it a provision that would allow corporations to sue nations and local governments for keeping fossil fuels in the ground. Since we're going to be relying on states and municipalities to block a lot of projects going forward (more on that later), we can't allow companies a backdoor to approving them with the support of President Trump.
Second, once Trump takes office, we need to be ready to put out every fire he starts. Over the last eight years, the climate movement has grown immensely. Take 350.org: we didn't even exist when Obama first took office. Now we work with people in every state and have hundreds of thousands of supporters nationwide (not to mention many more around the world). This movement has a diverse set of skill sets and strategies to bring to bear, from civil disobedience, to lawsuits, to mass marches. We'll protest every pipeline, march against every mine, and fight every fracking well. We were able to turn out hundreds of thousands of people when Obama was in office, imagine how many more will be willing to protest when Trump gets going.
The American people still love the environment. They overwhelmingly support clean energy. Democrats and Republicans alike want action on climate change. People want clean air to breath and clean water to drink. This election had nothing to do with dismantling our environmental laws (climate change wasn't even mentioned in the debates) and Trump has zero mandate for a radical assault on the planet. He's going to face a massive backlash the minute he starts implementing his agenda.
We'll also fight the fires that Trump lights up in other areas of our democracy. That means standing against his attack on civil liberties. Fighting for women's rights. Standing against his attacks on people of color, immigrants, and Muslims. Let's face it: under Trump, some people are closer than others to the flames. If you think it's a coincidence that the most racist President we've seen in the last 20 years is also the worst on the environment, you're fooling yourself. To paraphrase Van Jones, someone who thinks there are throwaway people is bound to think there are throwaway species, as well. Someone who cares only about himself isn't going to care about the planet. We're stronger when we fight together, which means the climate movement will need to challenge racism and white supremacy just as we challenge pollution and the fossil fuel industry.
Third, we need to start looking for the windows. The climate crisis is already underway and we can't waste four years playing defense. We need to drive action at the state level, pushing California, New York, and others to build out clean energy, shift the markets, and tie up the fossil fuel industry. We need to look to the courts, not only to defend regulations, but to start holding fossil fuel companies and the federal government accountable. The Children's Trust case and the investigation into ExxonMobil become even more important. We need to challenge private institutions to take action, ramping up the divestment campaign, pushing carbon neutrality, and urging colleges, museums and foundations to become leaders in their own communities. We need to go after the banks, getting them to move billions out of fossil fuels and into clean energy. We need to push companies to green their supply chains and commit to 100% renewable energy. We need to think globally, looking for ways to support fights around the world with our funding, solidarity, and online campaigns.
And we need to keep making our case to the public. Now is not the time to back down, shrug our shoulders, and say, "I guess people just don't agree with us." Hell no. There are millions upon millions of people who are part of this movement and millions more who are looking for change. There are still more workers in the solar industry than there are in coal, oil or gas. More so than ever, we need to make the case that the best way to revitalize our economy and create more good jobs is to invest in clean energy. Trump has promised to create jobs, lots of jobs, great jobs, beautiful jobs. At the White House on Thursday he said "infrastructure" was his number on priority. Well, there's his chance.
Mass mobilization and bold action will be even more important in the years ahead. Our goal won't just be to "convince" Trump that he needs to care about the climate or, as some suggest, figure out ways to partner with him. Our goal will be to build such massive political opposition to his agenda that he simply can't move it forward without a vast majority of the country turning against him and the Republican party (and any weak-kneed Democrats who decide to go along with it).
To ensure the success of women and girls is to ensure that they attain literacy and self-confidence in financial matters big and small. And it's happening! The International Day Of The Girl was celebrated in early October; Canadians are celebrating Financial Literacy this November.
Each of these events is an opportunity for women and girls to learn how to confidently thrive in today's world. The increased support and confidence around financial literacy means women are better equipped to take on new challenges, and that includes becoming successful and financially independent women business owners.
This is definitely reason for applause, but there's still much work to be done. In a political environment of unrest, many business women are questioning if the accepted norm will be continued misogynistic 'locker talk' that directly affects their balance sheets. They'd hoped that this would be an issue of the past. The Wider Opportunities for Women Study reported that over 41% of the female population struggles financially. They are either poor, at the brink of being poor, or living from pay check to pay check.
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Yet despite the difficulties, progress is being made.
During the past couple of decades, more and more women have attained financial independence by embracing roles as entrepreneurs, moving out of traditional workplaces they find stultifying to create their own dynamic workplaces.
The trends are impressive:
In the U.S. alone, women are now entering entrepreneurship at a rate of 2:1 in comparison to their male counterparts.
Since 1997, the number of women-owned small businesses increased by 68% (outpacing the overall growth of 47% for all new businesses). This means that 29% of small business owners are women, up from 26% in 1997.
Women-owned small businesses employed nearly 8 million workers, providing one in seven jobs in the private business sector.
These businesses generated almost $1.5 trillion dollars in combined revenue.
These growth rates and successes look to continue, so as young girls become women, they will also become our future leaders.
After the society-changing migration of women into the workforce beginning after World War II (and all the benefits this movement reaped for women and society in general), it's yet a new era as women are leaving traditional workplaces and often moving back into their homes. But this time, women are moving up in the world of business, becoming entrepreneurs.
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This trend has increased even more so during the past few years. A number of factors are at play, including the interconnectedness of our digital age and the emergence of the "New Economy" after the 2008 Great Recession. The time is ripe for a transformation. With more women starting small businesses and finding success, there is an opportunity to reshape the working environment. As the growth rates of women entrepreneurs continue to rise, they will play an even more powerful role as the change makers in our society. Entrepreneurs and small businesses fuel economic growth and job creation. They are also the innovators whose efficiencies far outpace government and politics.
And what does the new landscape look like? Women are forging businesses that align with their personal values and are using their superpowers to build the world they want to live in.
In 2011, Andrea Shillington left her global corporate life as a brand strategist working for Fortune 500s to launch Brands For the Heart. Through her company she supports impact-driven entrepreneurs to create a new wave of conscious Fortune 500s. She was driven to do this because of her heartbreak at watching incredible entrepreneurs with world changing ideas not be able to reach their full potential due to budget constraints. Andrea saw an opportunity to co-create with designers and entrepreneurs to develop a new business model that integrates the old 'brick and mortar agency' model with the 'crowdsourcing and info product' model. She now helps these entrepreneurs step into their power and position their businesses to become unbeatable in their marketplace at rates they can afford.
Theresa Laurico began her career in radio, TV, and music production. Yet, on set one day, she had an existential crisis. In that moment, Theresa asked herself, "Is what I'm doing WORTH my heartbeat, my only life?" When the answer that came back was "no," she committed to making media that moved humanity forward. Within four months of winning a local radio stations entrepreneurial contest, she launched SociaLIGHT (LIGHT - Leaders Impacting Global Humanity Today). Sir Richard Branson opened her first conference with a keynote speech attended by 1000 entrepreneurs, startups, and leaders in the audience.
Today, SociaLIGHT is the largest event company in Canada, with a focus on impact and contribution to the world. They are forging private-public partnerships to ignite civic action, and SocialLIGHT has recently partnered with Intuit/QuickBooks to launch Project 10K with a goal to provide financial literacy for 10,000 startups/entrepreneurs in 2017.
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Each of these is a great example of a woman stepping up to lead business as a force for global change - on her terms!
"Feminism isn't about making women strong. Women are already strong. It's about changing the way the world perceives that strength." -- G.D. Anderson
We can look at the trends and certainly be optimistic. Yet there are obstacles that still stand in the way of female entrepreneurs that must be overcome:
Women continue to have limited access to the funds they need to grow their businesses:
- Of all venture capital funds, a mere 7% goes to a company owned by a woman or with a woman on the executive team.
- Only 16% of total dollars from conventional small business loans and just 17% of SBA loans are going to a company run by a woman. In monetary terms, only $1 of every $23 in conventional small business loans goes to women-owned businesses. So not only are women struggling to get funded, but when approved for lending, the loan amount is significantly less than what their male counterparts receive.
While it remains something of a "taboo" topic, women regularly deal with sexual harassment as they actively pursue funding to grow their business.
Women are generally lacking the mentorship and encouragement they need to scale their business growth. For women entrepreneurs in particular, encouragement has been scientifically proven to positively impact their success. (More successful women entrepreneurs will lead to more mentors.)
Women are more likely to face steep challenges involving handling their households and family life as they pursue their entrepreneurial goals.
Here's how two women entrepreneurs are overcoming these obstacles:
Lisa Berkovitz is helping put a dent in the lack of mentors for women entrepreneurs. She started her career as an M.B.A., launching large-scale projects for Fortune 100 and Fortune 500 multinational companies as well as the World Economic Forum. She managed a $90M product portfolio and served many of the world's most influential business leaders, including Richard Branson, Oprah Winfrey, and Bill Gates.
She discovered that her passion was tapping into human potential, and she would stay late at the office researching this topic. But eventually she felt something missing and had a major revelation: Selling 'stuff' and climbing the corporate ladder left her feeling cold and flat. Many women can relate.
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Lisa left her corporate career and undertook a deep inner journey, learning about herself and her passion and unlearning the "shoulds" that others projected onto her. Today Lisa views business as a vehicle for self-mastery and planetary change. If that weren't enough, Lisa is a master-level NLP practitioner and Reiki Master who puts 'soul' squarely at the helm of business by acting as a mentor to many entrepreneurs and leaders.
Michelle Goldblum left her big corporate pharma job when she came to the conscious decision that she wanted ONE life instead of TWO. She was done with living two separate lives, one life of wellbeing and fun (home) and a second life of toxic misery (work). What shifted Michelle's outlook on what was possible was her discovery of a community of women living their best life.
As she stepped out of her corporate job she stepped up by leveraging her marketing skills to help others create more meaning in their own lives and work. Ultimately Michelle co-founded I Am Creative and Soul Camp where she now lives ONE integrated life that is rewarding, connected, and serves others. Michelle has successfully overcome the difficulties of running a household while working as a successful business woman.
The women above are great examples of feminine leaders who successfully redefined how "business" would work in their lives. Each of these women stepped up, led by example, and overcame obstacles--each on her own terms!
More and more, women are gaining the financial literacy they need to not only survive in the world but to thrive as successful entrepreneurs. The power woman leader's hold as global change agents lies largely in their ability to break through limiting belief systems and to successfully make and manage money that they leverage for planetary change. But we're not fully there yet.
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To reach the goal of equality for women in business, women must come together and deeply support each other, thereby opening a pathway for future female leaders to follow. This point is critical and not to be taken lightly. The days of the 'crab in the bucket' mentality must end. When we all have each others backs, we ALL WIN. So, let's stand together One More Woman at a time.
Help us in supporting women to step up and fully own and earn their worth by sharing this article and watching this manifesto video. Join us in becoming a catalyst for young girls and women's financial success both today and tomorrow.
Jennifer Love, Visionary CEO
It's Time To Own & Earn Your Worth!
While America reels from the stunning upset and Acclimates to saying "President Trump" uncertainty looms. The Truth is, good or bad, we don't know what a Trump led administration will do. With most candidates we can look at voting records and listen to rhetoric and look for patterns where words align with or depart from actions. Not so with Mr. Trump, we just don't empirically know much.
While addiction touches every family in America, our issue is still cast aside and devalued. Zika was well funded and covered by the media, addiction receives an anemic response even while more than 100 Americans daily overdose and die. What can we expect from Mr. Trump? He is a paradox and an enigma. While he rose on the political scene by inciting racism and making inflammatory comments, he heralds from Queens, one of the most diverse communities on the planet. NYC is his stomping ground and while he lives high above subway riders, he hasn't moved to a Texas mansion either. He dwells among the very people he condemns.
Recovery may be the most egalitarian system in America. The AA literature says "we are people who would not ordinarily mix" and while AA is only one path to recovery it is deeply embedded in Americana. If an ivy educated liberal suddenly found them-self in a rural American town and landed in an AA meeting run by Trump voters they would be welcomed, politics aside. That principal may be a starting point to heal America's raw open wound that needs to be stared down by a tough nurse to avoid infection.
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We don't know very much about Trump's views on addiction and drug policy. He seems to have some understanding and has self disclosed losing a brother to alcoholism. He proudly says he doesn't drink. Is that insight or his typical boastful reporting? Before he was a candidate, Trump seemed to be an advocate for some pretty progressive drug policy, that shifted as a candidate where he because a staunch drug warrior. Apparently one of the goals of the infamous wall is to keep drugs on the southern side of the wall. He seems to know a wall won't really do much but certainly sells the idea that it well to his followers.
Looking at a fractured America, addiction could be a unifier. Every family in America has this problem, even if it's not a direct connection, the steak reality is felt at some level. If not in their family, it's in their community somewhere. America has responded poorly and most seem to know that. The Trump campaign kept saying people were afraid to admit the supports Trump. Maybe the same is true of drug policy, where people are afraid to say they know incarceration is ineffective.
Trump is a salesman, he might be the guy who could sell drug policy reform as a conservative issue. The drug war is not fiscally responsible, it is the ultimate big wasteful government. Current drug policy is a government over reach. Who is the government to tell an individual what they can put in their body? Th drug war is an all out assault on families. There is not a shred of Christian ethic when families are broken up because someone smoked marijuana. If Mr. Trump is sincere about reducing violence in the "inner city", call a truce on the drug war and admit, we all lost.
One of the very strange things about drug policy is that there is a very weak and faint voice from recovering people. We live drug free, why not ask us to weigh in? President after President has wanted to shift from incarceration to treatment and yet the top drug policy official is almost always a law enforcement official. That makes as much sense as appointing an oncologist to head an agency to fight a wave of bank robbery.
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"Since 1988, Bistango has been one of the best kept secrets on Manhattan's East Side." So reads Bistango's claim for its original location on East 29th Street, and it has the ring of truth as one of those neighborhood spots that hasn't had much media attention but plays to a solid clientele of regulars.
Fourteen months ago Bistango branched out uptown to the Kimberly Hotel on East 50th Street, and Chef Humberto Corona is well on his way to building a similar base of satisfied guests just now finding out about his very good Italian food. Originally from Puebla, Mexico, and self-taught as a cook, he got his start in Italian cuisine ten years ago at Bar Stuzzichini in the Flatiron District, then was appointed Chef de Cuisine at the Spanish tapas bar Ten Bells. He's a chef with a deft touch that makes so many dishes so readily found elsewhere all his own.
The dining room, headed by the wholly affable manager, Erin Fisher, is an oddly shaped spot past the lobby of the hotel, with a pleasant bar counter to the rear. The walls are a vibrant Carpaccio red, the splendid artwork exploding in a profusion of flowers. Sturdy, comfortable chairs are finely upholstered, but the tables are unfortunately bare of tablecloths, which doesn't help the noise level here. The service staff is fast on their feet and need to be, for the pacing of the food delivery from the kitchen can lag even when the room is not full.
My party of four people began with some admirable creamy burrata with prosciutto and roasted sweet red peppers ($12); expertly grilled octopus was graced with very fine olive oil and peppery greens ($16). Don't fail to order one or two of the flatbreads for the table, which come steaming and crackly hot. We enjoyed the Margherita with quickly cooked marinara, fresh mozzarella, ricotta and leaves of basil ($14), and the Salsiccia, with hand-made sweet Italian sausage and hot cherry peppers ($15)--both flatbreads quite addictive. It would be hard to resist a platter of the meatballs, once tasted, or the succulent arancini rice balls (below).
Pastas tried all had the right heft of homemade dough, and portions were very generous, so plan to share a plate of tender fettuccine with lobster, cherry tomato and a touch of sherry ($25). Cavatelli is one of my favorite pastas, best when slightly chewy, here served with Italian sausage, kale and a good dose of Calabrian chili to spark the flavors up ($21). A lusty green sauce enhanced the richness of short rib meat atop fat rigatoni ($22), and ravioli came plumply packed with prosciutto in a wonderful hazelnut-studded pesto and brown butter ($20).
All around us it appeared people were enjoying a large plate of eggplant parmigiana ($20), highly recommended by our waiter, and one bite showed why: everything about this once humble dish was ennobled by perfect ingredients and impeccable cooking, so it did not fall or melt apart or show any separation of the hearty sauce.
Veal alla Milanese followed the line of big proportions, topped with a radicchio, Parmigiano, endive and cherry tomato melange ($32), while a very good dry-aged ribeye came with roasted Yukon potatoes, broiled herbed tomato and olive oil ($38). Although a nice piece of meat, a pork chop with white beans ($32) was overcooked to toughness.
The desserts need an upgrade: I wrote "OK" next to a White chocolate mousse cake with roasted strawberries and rhubarb ($12) and a mascarpone cheesecake with blackberry lime salad ($12). The trendy olive oil cake ($12) tasted like, well, cake suffused with olive oil, which also ruined a lemon and caramel sundae ($10).
Bistango's wine list could easily be longer and better, but it serves well enough, and mark-ups are not all that high.
This new uptown Bistango is garnering local attention and, I suspect, getting recommendations from hotel concierges nearby because it is friendly, reasonably priced and has the kind of Italian food just about everyone loves. But it also has a fine chef in Humberto Corona, whose dedication to putting his own mark on a meal is clearly evident.
Open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday Brunch. Pre-theater Prix Fixe $35.99
Joseph A. Califano, Jr., who was President Lyndon Johnson's chief assistant for domestic affairs and Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare in the Carter Administration, last night sent this email to his daughter in response to emails about coping with the election that she had received from her children's schools and sent him.
Dear Claudia,
Please do not accept such emails without realizing that they express the "conventional wisdom" (a phrase Ken Galbraith crafted when I was young) of the elite folks at the big corporations, universities, private schools and national media, living in affluent suburbs and urban enclaves. Their school leaders easily imagine (that's the "in" feeling) that their kids would be shaken by this troublesome, traumatic exercise in democracy and so offer "counseling."
These elites just can't accept the relentless pain of parents who must send their kids to (often lousy) public schools, who work two or three jobs to keep their families together, and who think their kids are locked in a caste system with no upward mobility. These parents are hurting because government in Washington has not been working and has let them down for decades.
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As Churchill said, "Democracy is the worst form of government except for all the others." To me it's appalling that schools like your children's don't say: "This is democracy. Learn from it. Learn that there are lessons here. Learn that most people don't live like you do. Work to make the world a better place for all, and when you grow up don't vote just for your own good (lower taxes, etc.)."
I remember when Harry Truman succeeded Franklin Roosevelt and the elite, including your most conservative grandmother, my mother, said, "Terrible. Awful. He's part of the criminal Prendergast political machine and a haberdasher." But he turned out to be a great president.
I remember when John Kennedy was assassinated while I was working in the Pentagon. I went into my boss Army Secretary Cy Vance's office and said, "I'm going back to New York. Lyndon Johnson's a southerner from Texas; he'll be a second rate president," and Vance said, "Stay around." Thank God.
I didn't vote for Trump; I didn't like him or his ideas, but we are one nation--like an airplane we have only one pilot. So your schools should have quoted Barack Obama's eloquent statement about our democratic system, instead of writing emails like the ones you sent me.
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I love you and the children too much to let this pass. Just as you make up your own mind, teach your children to do the same.
On election night, Canada's immigration page crashed due to massive server activity. My Facebook feed was flooded with threats from friends who were going to pick up and move out of the country. While the sentiment is understandable if the election did not go your way, it is also deeply troubling in its implications. Are you really going to cut and run when your country needs you more than ever?
And, FYI, the shadow of the American president follows you wherever you may try to hide.
As I struggled to sleep last night, my mind turned to my two daughters and the scores of teenagers I counsel. It is very hard not to feel an overwhelming sense of dread, especially when I think about our standing on the world stage. But as an eternal optimist, it is also the thought of my strong girls and idealistic students that gives me hope.
It is hard to know what the next several years will bring, but the world will keep turning. It is incumbent on everyone who holds the values of equality, social justice, environmental stewardship and peace to get to work. We can all keep moving the needle in a positive direction and project a positive image of America, but it will be on a smaller scale.
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I spent my college years under the George W. Bush presidency. While studying abroad in London, strangers would hear my accent on the tube and ask me what I thought about Bush. I acted as an ambassador of sorts, allaying the fears of the asker (and the people within earshot) as best I could. Later, when I traveled to Tanzania to volunteer, one of the first conversations I had with my homestay mother was about politics. "I don't like war," she explained. "Tanzania is a peaceful country. I don't like Bush because he makes war."
It was hard to travel as an American during those years, but it was also immensely important to dispel the idea that the messaging the world was hearing from one man was representative of all Americans. I have a feeling that creating good will on a personal scale and in the private sector is going to be more important than ever in the coming years. And we will need to prepare to answer the hard questions from friends of other cultures who simply can't comprehend why things happen the way they do in America (even though you also may be at a loss).
I am a firm believer in cross-cultural exchange, service and global citizenry. We will have to take it upon ourselves to promote a positive vision of the country and the peaceful world that we all desire. My call to action is simple: Reach out to a new culture. This could be the folks with an opposing political sign in your neighborhood or the villagers of a remote community in Fiji. We grow and connect by tearing down walls, not building them.
International Education Week is an excellent opportunity to highlight the importance and benefits of global education and the value international cooperation brings to science.
In the past month, the embassy has hosted the Transatlantic Forum (formerly Transatlantic Science Week) in Chicago and a dinner in honor Dr. Allan Goodman, president of the Institute of International Education (IIE), who received the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit. At the dinner, Dr. Goodman and I discussed the importance of education both in addressing the migration crisis and in the fight against international terrorism.
During both of these events, I reflected on the vital links between people and education and research institutions in Norway and the United States. And how high the ambitions are for further strengthening these links.
The United States is Norway's most important partner on scientific research and higher education. Several of the world's best universities, as well as federally funded research centers, can be found here.
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Obviously, this makes the United States a magnet for Norway's students, researchers and institutions.
The United States is by far the most popular destination for Norwegian exchange students. Including both exchange and full degree-seeking students, more than 3,500 young Norwegians are currently pursuing their studies at American universities. That means that roughly one out of 10 Norwegian graduate students studies in the U.S.
Norway is also experiencing an increasing number of American students attending our universities, where tuition is free and many courses are taught in English.
The university studies in Svalbard, for example, offer world-class courses in polar and ocean sciences at the worlds northernmost academic learning center.
Norwegian universities may be modest in size, and their names don't necessarily resonate globally. But they deliver results. Norway is ranked among the best five countries in the world according to a recent report called "Skills Matter." OECD, the Paris-based organization tested the practical information-processing skills of university graduates in all 34 OECD countries.
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The report doesn't rate individual universities; instead, it measures the quality of a cross-section of national institutions of higher education, sorted by country.
In other words, the general quality of Norwegian universities is high, with little difference between the top and the bottom.
Offering world-class research facilities and centers for research-based innovation in a diverse number of areas, American universities have partnered with Norwegian ones and we welcome others to follow suit.
But why is it so important to partner with international institutions or encourage exchange programs?
The answer refers back to the conversation I had with Dr. Goodman on the role education must play in addressing some of the world's greatest challenges and in shaping the minds of future generations.
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By working together and learning from each other, we prepare future leaders to make a difference by making the world a less dangerous place while further strengthening the already robust relations that exist between our two countries.
The Virtual Ambassador program I conduct at the Embassy is another way to collaborate with American universities. Through Skype, I speak to students about Norway's priorities and our unique expertise in areas of peace and reconciliation, girls' education and the Arctic, to name a few. This in turn increases awareness about Norway and the opportunities for student exchange and studying at our universities.
We can all agree that close links between the three pillars in the knowledge triangle - research, education and innovation - are keys for success.
To me, both scientific research and higher education are areas where we are looking toward the future. The young students of today will be the tomorrow's leaders. And today's research will provide the solutions to tomorrow's challenges - such as climate change, migration issues and the consequences of an aging population.
That is why we keep building these ever-stronger bonds.
On any given night in the U.S., close to 39,500 military veterans are homeless. Nearly 1,000 of them are in Massachusetts.
These are men and women who have put their lives on the line in the deserts and mountains of Iraq and Afghanistan, and in the jungles of Vietnam. They fought in the Korean War, Panama, Lebanon, and the Persian Gulf. And yet, after all they endured in service to our country, they are sleeping in shelters, and living on the streets or in homeless encampments.
The reasons for their homelessness are complex. There are the general stressors that contribute to homelessness such as a shortage of affordable housing and limited opportunities to earn a living wage, coupled with the fact that military training and occupations don't always translate well to the civilian workforce. Those issues are compounded by mental health problems that result from, or were exacerbated by, their service and the absence of social support networks. Child support arrears have also been identified as a leading cause of homelessness among veterans.
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Recognizing the scale of the problem, in 2010 President Barack Obama launched an initiative aimed at ending veteran homelessness by 2015. As part of that, cities across the country, including a handful in Massachusetts, joined the Mayors Challenge to End Veteran Homelessness. And while the initiative's ultimate goal has yet to be achieved, homelessness among veterans has fallen nationally by 47 percent in the last six years, while unsheltered homelessness has been reduced by 56 percent. Locally, Lynn became the first Massachusetts city to end veterans' homelessness earlier this year. Boston has succeeded in housing all but just a small number of veterans who are homeless as of the beginning of this year.
Civil legal aid--free legal assistance or representation for low-income individuals facing non-criminal legal issues--has been an integral part of ensuring our veterans have safe, stable housing. The Department of Justice has noted that four of the most pressing unmet needs of homeless veterans involve legal assistance: preventing eviction/foreclosure, child support issues, outstanding warrants/fines, and restoration of a driver's license. Recognizing the need, the Department of Veterans Affairs has made grant funding available to legal aid organizations to assist veterans as part of President Obama's initiative.
In addition to working to get veterans into permanent housing, civil legal aid is often an effective intervention for veterans who are at risk of becoming homeless--an estimated 1.4 million veterans nationwide. For example, several years ago, Legal Assistance Corp. of Central Massachusetts, now known as Community Legal Aid (CLA) helped Iraq War veteran Michael Damon and his family avoid foreclosure on their Uxbridge home. The family fell into financial hardship when war-related injuries left Damon disabled and he was ineligible to receive workers' compensation. His injuries made him unable to care for his two children, which prevented his wife Lisa from working full-time. It wasn't long before they received a foreclosure notice. Damon's legal aid attorney filed suit on the family's behalf against Countrywide Home Loans and Deutsche Bank. Their case was ultimately settled after their attorney was able to assist the Damons in repurchasing their home with a more affordable mortgage.
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In another instance, MetroWest Legal Services (MWLS) succeeded in helping a 17-year Air Force veteran keep a roof over her head after a layoff and a stretch of unemployment brought her close to financial ruin. An MWLS attorney helped the veteran file for bankruptcy and represented her at the hearing, which resulted in the discharge of a large credit card debt--and a more stable financial future.
New York, NY USA - July 16, 2016: Donald Trump speaks during introduction Governor Mike Pence as running for vice president at Hilton hotel Midtown Manhattan
Since Wednesday morning, when most of the world woke up to the shocking news that Donald Trump had secured the highest office in the nation, I've been reading and hearing cute little phrases like "It's time to lay aside our differences," "No matter if your candidate won or lost, we must respect the office and the president," "Trust the system our forefathers laid out; it's going to be fine," "It's time to unite behind our new president."
First of all, let's talk about who thinks uniting behind our new president is the way to have peace in our country. It's we white people, and mostly white men. People of privilege are not in imminent danger, and it's easy for us to sit in safety and "trust our system," a system that has proven to target minorities again and again. But not since the Civil Rights movement has it been so blatant as this.
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In the aftermath of the election, there have been countless stories of Trump supporters vandalizing, harassing, and harming minorities and women. Undoubtedly this would have happened regardless of who won the election, and perhaps the incidents would have been worse and even more frequent had Hillary won the electoral vote. But the true horror here isn't the heartless people committing these crimes against already-marginalized people. The true horror lies in the condoning, the encouragement even, that comes from the top. Mr. Trump's platform was built upon hate and fear; his campaign echoed his beliefs, and now we are reaping the consequences of a man of power encouraging violence against minorities.
So I just have one thing to say in response to the flippant requests I'm hearing from people of privilege that Americans come together in support of our new president.
No.
Actually, it's NOT time to stand together behind Mr. Trump. Luckily, we live in a democracy, not a dictatorship. Just because a man has power does not mean we are required to unite in support of the cruelty and violence he has incited against millions of people.
Here's who I will be standing behind: people of color, the hispanic community, Muslim Americans, immigrants (both documented and undocumented), refugees, and anyone LGBTQ etc, women, and anyone else who has been marginalized. I will band together with the minorities in this country, the people who are literally scared for their lives right now. I will be donning the safety pin and keeping my eyes and ears open for the chance to defend and protect those who are being targeted, to come to their rescue, to shield them from harm.
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It's not time to stand behind Mr. Trump until he absolutely and unequivocally disavows the violence that has erupted since his win. Until he stops calling protests against him and his hatefulness "very unfair" and stands in front of America and tells his violent supporters that he in no way condones their behavior, that it is criminal and they will be caught and held accountable by the full extent of the law, I refuse to support him.
Mr. Trump, you should know something. If you threaten to abuse your power, the way you have, you should expect the fallout that has happened since your presidency was announced. You have your supporters, but you will never win. Because until you recant almost everything you said during your hateful campaign, Mr. Trump, peaceful and loving American people will be uniting in support of those who are afraid. It's not unfair at all, and it's not a rigged system. It's democracy, and it's time to embrace it.
House Speaker Paul Ryan said Donald Trump just earned a mandate, which seems to indicate a landslide victory, something Trump most certainly didn't accomplish. A landslide occurs when you overwhelm your opponent with votes, and even with his Electoral College success, which at most will be 306 to 232, this is hardly the case.
Moreover, a mandate doesn't occur when the loser gets 638,000 more votes (at last count) than the "victor," and Hillary Clinton's superior popular vote keeps growing. Yet, Republicans persist with false comparisons, as in Trump predicting there'd be a Brexit show of support, except Brexit actually garnered more votes than the remain forces. Four percentage points, but, hey, when was the truth ever in their lexicon?
Ultimately, totals don't matter. Whoever gets the keys to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue has a lot of power, and George W. Bush didn't become moderate even though his ascension was more controversial than Trump's. However, exaggerating their breadth of success, as Ryan claimed, is a public relations ploy to give more license to shaking things up by spreading myths the electorate wanted Trump to make radical changes.
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That's why reality checks must be shouted from the mountaintop to put the brakes on potential reversals of social advances, be they health care, women's rights, immigration reform and environmental concerns. Politicians are not stupid and know if they go too far, having achieved the presidency with a minority tally and a reduced majority in the Senate and the House, voters are watching. Sadly, the Senate isn't in danger for the GOP until 2020, because only eight mostly conservative Republican seats are up in 2018, another tragedy of 2016, when so many GOP senators who might have been defeated won re-election with small numbers, like Ron Johnson and Pat Toomey.
Still, Trump's vote-challenged victory provides fodder for Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and Tim Kaine, all of whom remain in the Senate to refute the big lie (as many Trump pronouncements in the election were) of the electorate's overwhelming love affair with the president-elect. If anything, his amazing feat was how close the election was. Why a man who spewed insults at anyone who opposed him, hurled racist vitriol, had questionable business practices, misogynist tendencies, bragged about not paying taxes, has fraud charges against him did so well is the mystery of this year's contest.
However, even with his election, due to Hillary Clinton's miscalculations, notwithstanding her so-called superior ground game, her much greater campaign war chest, more broadcast ads and a stellar line-up of campaign surrogates, Trump didn't get more votes than she did. Unfortunately, Clinton and her team, who'd warned supporters about waking up November 9 having not done what was needed, are no doubt kicking themselves for taking the rust belt states for granted. A one percent or so difference in Wisconsin and Michigan, plus Pennsylvania and Florida where she campaigned much more, would've provided votes she needed to pull it off. Had she not cockily avoided more time in the Midwest instead of wooing iffy North Carolina, we would probably be addressing President-elect Hillary.
While that might have prevented Hillary's defeat, it wouldn't have taken care of what must be achieved, the abolition of the outmoded Electoral College. After 2000, many thought something would be done, reasoning since there hadn't been a problem in 112 years, previous action hadn't been taken. However, with the huge focus on a Supreme Court decision based on political leanings of the justices, who prevented counting all the votes, one hoped changes were coming.
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It wasn't to be, because the Electoral College is protected by small states, whose numbers are needed to provide the 3/4 tally to amend our constitution. In spite of their tiny populations they selfishly hold onto undemocratic power, endorsed by many, left and right (I don't know why), simply because that's the way it's always been. Really? Well, at one time so was slavery, and women couldn't vote. It's a holdover supposedly protecting minority rights, except with the Senate small states still hold lots of power. Plus, if presidential elections are decided by the House, as in 1800 and 1824, each state votes as one, irrespective of their numbers. So, Montana, with one congressman votes with the same weight as California and its 53 representatives.
Why continue these absurd contradictions to democracy? What other modern democracy votes for presidents as we do? We are told it's because urban centers don't have similar interests as huge geographic areas with scant population and that's true, but why should voters in large swatches of underpopulated land have more sway than those in cities?
The president has great powers and influence on our lives, issuing executive orders, vetoing legislation and appointing Supreme Court justices. If a president does something people in rural areas don't like, why should their views be more significant than others? Why should urban centers be stuck with conservative law and court decisions when the president who appointed those justices received fewer votes than his opponent? Yes, someone isn't going to be happy, but, frankly, too bad. And please don't say majority votes might cause tyranny. The same tyranny can be foisted upon the majority with our current system.
The easiest solution is for more states to ratify the National Interstate Popular Vote Compact, which circumvents the Electoral College by having states ignore their own vote if the national popular vote favors another candidate. In order to take effect, states with a combined 270 electoral votes must pass it. At the moment only eleven have, with 165 votes. Thus, others are needed with a combined 105 votes, and then the people's intentions will be heard.
In this case it would have been Hillary, and that wouldn't have pleased Trump supporters, but in other years it might go the other way. Consider though, in the five times the Electoral College or House of Representatives elected presidents with fewer popular votes, its always been a Democrat who lost: Andrew Jackson in 1824, Samuel Tilden in 1876, Grover Cleveland in 1888, Al Gore in 2000 and now Hillary.
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This isn't democracy, and it's time we demanded change.
A supporter of Democratic U.S. Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton reacts as Australians watch the results of the U.S. Presidential election at the University of Sydney, Australia, November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Jason Reed
If you watched election results roll in Tuesday evening, a sea of red swept across the United States. The so called upper Midwest "blue wall" pitifully crumbled and the rust belt bled red. Mr. Trump's stunning success offers fundamentally important lessons for Americans and insights about their fears regarding immigration, unemployment, race, and terrorism. Trump achieved the unexpected and in the wake of it, demonstrated that even allegations of rape, sexual harassment, and avoiding paying (and disclosing) taxes are not enough to defeat his brand. The 2016 Presidential election also exposes how deeply and painfully America is divided not just by race and class, but also by sex.
Postmortems will continue to play out over the weeks and months to come. For now, let's think about what the 2016 election signifies for women, girls, double standards, and the political process. For example, despite the fact that 64 percent of voters don't believe Mr. Trump has the temperament to serve as president, his victory was nonetheless decisive, defeating Secretary Hillary Clinton, whose impressive record of service was unmatched. Moreover, Mr. Trump clinched his victory with the votes of White Women; 53 percent voted for him according to CNN exit poll data.
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How will girls in the U.S. reflect on this election given the widespread support for Mr. Trump, a man they've heard glorify sexual assault, joke about dating his daughter and agree with Howard Stern when he called Ivanka Trump "a piece of ass," and threaten to prosecute and "lock up" Secretary Clinton if elected president? Some commentators already ponder whether Trump's victory will further silence victims of rape, domestic violence, and sexual assault. Others wonder whether the anger cultivated and captured in this election will dissipate or reshape American politics for the near future.
Women should be concerned for themselves, their daughters, and the U.S., because Supreme Court vacancies -- possibly as many as three or four -- will be filled in the coming four years by Mr. Trump. These vacancies, including the seat left empty by Justice Scalia's recent death, will not only determine the balance of the Court, but shape jurisprudence on reproductive rights, gun control, education policy, the environment, voting rights and much more. And despite women's reproductive health care seeming secure, just two years ago a divided court ruled that for-profit corporations could deny certain contraceptive coverage to their female employees based on religious objections. At various times, Mr. Trump has promised to appoint anti-choice justices and even to punish women who seek abortions. Will he keep to that position? With an aging Court, more vacancies are very likely in the coming years.
Yet, it's not just the Supreme Court that is at stake. Mr. Trump will appoint senior leaders to his cabinet and dozens if not hundreds of individuals could fill agency positions that actually have direct and profound impacts on women's lives, including at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to name but a few.
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Disappointed Clinton voters believe that with the presence of women in high offices, equality advances on all fronts, including for girls and women. However, even with the election of a woman as president, that does not always translate into achieving sex equality and reducing discrimination, precisely because sexism is so deeply entrenched, but weakly addressed (if at all) in our society. As I pondered a Clinton victory, I couldn't help but wonder whether a woman president in the U.S. would be accorded the respect and dignity granted her male predecessors and now Mr. Trump? These questions are important in the aftermath of the 2016 election--and reflect not only our citizenry, but our Congress.
According to the Pew Research Center, "Women now make up 20% of both the House and Senate -- a record high for the U.S. Congress." Nevertheless, "that figure pales in comparison with most of its high-income peer nations -- and lags even farther behind most lower-income nations around the world." In over two hundred years, only 46 women have ever served the U.S. Senate, including the twenty now occupying that role.
To place women's political representation in context, the U.S. ranks "an unimpressive 33rd" among 49 "high income" nations. When compared more broadly, the U.S. ranks 83rd among 137 nations according to the World Economic Forum's "Global Gender Gap 2014 Report." Indeed, the U.S. lags behind its northern neighbor, Canada, as well as France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Spain, but also Rwanda, Bolivia, Ecuador, South Africa, and Cuba in the political representation of women. The Inter-Parliamentary Union's "World Classification of Women in National Parliaments" as recently as September 2016 listed the United States at 97 among 187 nations. By any grading matrix--that is a failing grade.
These rankings--across various indices and surveys--add context and weight to what women's rights advocates have long exposed as a shameful reality in U.S. politics and should be cause for deeper concern, no matter the victor in the presidential race. That is, the 2016 election could be read as a mandate against "establishment" candidates. However, it could also be read as part of a longer history of impeding women in politics in the U.S.
This all matters, because Americans should want a vibrant and robust democracy that flourishes under the umbrella of equality. Research suggests that to get there, it will require more than simply electing a woman as president, although that is a big step. In our article, published last year in the Fordham Law Review, my co-author and I wrote "nations that elect women presidents (in Chile's case, twice in ten years) may not successfully advance women's rights without their broader representation in legislative bodies and the political will and support of male colleagues."
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While scholars and commentators might presume that female representation alone achieves gender equality or liberalizes women's rights, such conclusions are misleading and inaccurate. Women's political representation without a critical mass offers only scant access to power and minimal influence. This is not to say women shouldn't be in high offices -- they should and the time is overdue. To achieve a norm-shifting culture as well the enactment of regulations and legislation that promote women's equality, requires more women on deck and the collaboration of men who can see beyond their colleagues' skirts and pantsuits. It also will require Americans to shed implicit and explicit biases against women in leadership.
I was wrong.
I never thought the country would vote for a candidate who called Mexicans rapists, bragged about grabbing women's genitals, mocked the disabled, for years supported the birther fraud, had no policies he could explain in any coherent fashion, is narcissistic and probably clinically ill at some level, and is not at all prepared to be President.
We are in big trouble.
For proof, see second paragraph.
The argument from Trump's supporters is that he is not the racist, sexist, inarticulate charlatan I think he is. The problem with that argument is that the evidence for these realities comes from Trump's own mouth and behavior. Earnest supporters of the Donald nevertheless assert the contrary, saying the problem with people like me is that I take Trump "literally but not seriously" while they take him "seriously but not literally."
That's cute.
Now all of Trump is reduced to a metaphor.
Still, however, I am perplexed.
Because . . .
I cannot, for the life of me, conjure in my mind the metaphorical meaning of "grab[bing]" women "by the pussy."
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The pundits are having a field day. All of them are doing apologetic cartwheels as they fess up to missing the possibility that His Hairness could actually win. As with all things "punditry," however, these should be taken with an large grain of salt. Clinton won the popular vote and lost all the states she was predicted to win -- Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan (perhaps; the final vote is not yet in), and Wisconsin -- by small margins. She even lost some states she was predicted to lose -- Arizona, Georgia, Texas -- by smaller margins than would normally have been the case had past been prologue. The pundit notion that Hillary was thus a uniquely flawed candidate is a bit over the top.
So is the notion that Bernie . . . or Elizabeth Warren . . . or Joe Biden . . .
Would have won.
All would have been painted as out of touch and unacceptable in the 24/7 negative campaign that was Trump's.
To be painfully honest, going negative is what Trump does best. Always has been. He learned it at the feet of Roy Cohn, Joe McCarthy's doppelganger in the 1950s who made lying with a straight face a habit until Donald Trump turned it into an art form.
So Bernie would have been painted as a Communist, Warren as an unvarnished Harvard professor who never created a job in her life, and Biden as . . . well . . . Biden -- an over-the-top. loose-lipped, forever politician (remember, Biden was elected to the Senate when he was 29 and has literally been a politician for more or less his entire adult life).
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And, oh, by the way, lunch-bucket Joe also lives in a mansion in Wilmington, so the Scranton working-class-roots thing would have been a bit too much as well.
None of this would have been fair. Bernie is not a Communist; Warren is a courageous and informed policy wonk whose programs, especially those involving oversight of Wall Street, would actually work; and Biden is authentic.
But none of that would have mattered to our President-elect, the Tweeter-in-Chief.
Where to from here?
Though -- in light of my track record this year -- I shouldn't, I will venture some predictions.
The first is that all those white, working class voters in the rust belt are about to be very disappointed.
Bernie had a program for them. It involved something on the order of an FDR-like New Deal where government spending created jobs in places from which they have fled, and big-ticket expenses like health care and education were paid for publicly.
That's not what Trump will do because that is not what the institutional party he now controls will deliver for him.
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They will cut taxes, eliminate Obamacare, repeal Dodd-Frank, and tell you the free market will take care of the rest.
But they will be wrong.
We have seen this movie once before.
Health savings accounts cannot fund medical care for poor people who have no paychecks or for the shrinking and struggling middle class living paycheck-to-paycheck. Wall Street unregulated is Wall Street run amok, at the end of which one is delivered into a financial meltdown tantamount to a depression. And tax cuts from Washington do not create jobs in Flint. They didn't during the last Administration in which the GOP controlled the House, Senate and Presidency, and they won't in this one either.
Now, auto-industry bail outs, like the one Obama created at the beginning of his Presidency when Chrysler, Ford and GM were on their heels and about to die, do create jobs in Flint.
But Trump and his fellow-travelers were against that legislation and presumably still are.
The second is that the trade deals that exist won't be repealed and the one on offer (TPP) may still pass.
The fact of the matter is that free trade significantly increases our nation's wealth. The problem with free trade is that the wealth created is very unevenly distributed. Were, however, free trade to end, the economic pie would shrink, dramatically, and the GOP Trump now runs won't give him the votes to do that. Instead, the new administration will tinker at the edges, bringing more claims under the deals to try to stop currency manipulation or dumping. In other words, on free trade, the Trump administration will pretty much do what would have been done in . . . a Hillary Administration.
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The third is that there are now a host of national security experts who are very afraid.
This I know for a fact, from sources I cannot disclose.
Trump is dangerously uninformed and misinformed on issues of national security and needs to be set straight fast. Putin is not an ally. The middle east will not move forward if American troops are used to try to create the peaceful order only the people living there can create. Water-boarding didn't stop acts of terrorism in the past, won't do so in the future, and is a crime.
The good news is that Trump spent 90 minutes with Obama yesterday, a meeting that no doubt amounted in large part to a polite tutorial on the subject of national security. The other good news is that all the "Never Trump" DC policy mavens who swore they would not help him are now coming back because they think they have a patriotic duty to stop a potential train wreck. The bad news is that the President-elect is that wreck.
The fourth is that the Supreme Court is lost to the right-wing if Trump gets to pick three Justices and actually appoints the people he says he will.
All of them -- and I mean "all" -- will overturn Roe v. Wade (and the right to gay marriage, if they get a chance), and radically shrink the federal government's ability to pass regulatory legislation founded on the Constitution's commerce clause. A friend yesterday predicted that this latter reality means an end to the Clean Water Act and Clean Air Act.
That remains to be seen.
But it is worth noting that the kind of federal role right-wing jurists envision is basically the role the federal government had in the 19th century. That role is pre-gay rights, pre-abortion rights, pre-civil rights and pre-New Deal.
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Or -- to put it bluntly -- a world you and I . . .
Will not recognize.
Trump's supporters will say that my parade of horribles either will not be that horrible or will not happen. They'll assert that Trump is a pragmatist, a businessman, a fellow used to getting things done.
That, however, is not what I see at first pass.
What I see is a guy totally enamored of himself with a penchant for holding grudges and skewering rivals by whatever means, foul or fair, will work. To that mind-set is married a character loyal only to those who never waver in their support.
His core advisers consist of his kids, his son-in-law Jared Kushner, the three GOP amigos (Rudy, Christie and Newt), and (maybe) Mike Pence. I am not convinced any of them can tell him "No" and make it stick, and of the pols in the room, all are destroyers, not builders. Rudy and Christie come at destruction from the vantage point of prosecutors with sharp elbows and pols who shut down bridges, Pence from the vantage point of a right-wing talk radio industry (where his political career began) that demeans much more than it informs, and Newt from his early days in the House where he used the politics of personal destruction to end the Democratic Party's control of that body. In these advisers, Trump has found soul-mates.
For some, Hillary Clinton didn't lost the election last Tuesday. She lost it in 1787 when guys in wigs created an anomalous (and anti-democratic) institution called the Electoral College that in two of the last five Presidential elections has awarded the office to the popular vote loser. The country is seriously and significantly divided. Anti-Trump street protests having already erupted in dozens of cities. There are enormous questions concerning the President-elect's temperament, competence and good faith. His "victory" is hardly a mandate.
A humble administration in these circumstances would govern non-aggressively, strive mightily for bi-partisanship, and delete the twitter account.
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Unfortunately, these folks are not that humble.
I was wrong about this election once before.
New administration, new Cabinet members. President-elect Donald Trump has already begun picking out his crew, but so far, his two concrete choices did not donate a penny to Trump's election effort. That would be Republican National Committee Chair Reince Priebus, Trump's new chief of staff (who did give a modest $1,000 to House Speaker Paul Ryan) and his new chief strategist, Brietbart News Chairman Stephen Bannon, who didn't make a trackable donation this cycle.
OpenSecrets Blog will run through the top names Trump is reportedly mulling for each cabinet position and look at the money behind them -- who they've donated to, and, if they were in public office, who their biggest contributors were.
Since we're following the money, let's start the series with our country's chief financial officer, the Secretary of the Treasury. This cabinet head, who will replace current Secretary Jack Lew, will deal with tax and economic policies, manage public debt and oversee the Internal Revenue Service. Another important aspect of the job is supervising sanctions against foreign countries.
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Steven Mnuchin: While Trump blasted Clinton throughout the campaign for her ties to Wall Street, the president-elect is considering this former Goldman Sachs exec for Treasury. Mnuchin was the Trump campaign's finance chairman, charged with rounding up as much money as possible for the effort. He maxed out his contributions to Trump with $5,400, and gave $200,400 to the Republican National Committee. Mnuchin is now the chairman and chief executive of private investment firm Dune Capital Management, whose employees gave $133,000 to the Democratic National Committee, which of course backed that party's nominee, Hillary Clinton.
Mnuchin and his wife, Heather, have donated almost $465,000 since 1995, some of it to unlikely recipients. Heather gave $2,700 to Clinton last May, and since 2000, the couple has given $13,400 to Clinton's Senate and presidential campaigns. While the majority of their cash this year went to Republicans, the couple doled out funds to Democrats Jason Kander ($250), who lost the Missouri Senate race, Michael Wildes ($1,900), defeated in a New Jersey House race, and Kamala Harris ($2,000), the newly-elected California senator.
Another interesting note: Bloomberg reported Mnuchin could save millions in taxes with help from a 1989 rule past secretaries, such as Henry Paulson, have used in order to satisfy conflict-of-interest rules. He could sell stock without paying taxes on them if he puts the money he gains into Treasury notes. As of a February filing, he owns $97 million of CIT Group.
Thomas Barrack Jr.: The chairman of private equity firm Colony Capital and a speaker at the Republican convention also proved his loyalty by maxing out to Trump this cycle, as well as giving more than $52,000 to the RNC and the Republican Party of Arkansas. The National Republican Congressional Committee, which pushes to elect more Republicans in the House, also received $19,000. Trump's close friend and business associate has donated around $128,000 since 1992, mostly to Republicans, but with multiple gifts going to Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.).
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In June, Barrack started a pro-Trump super PAC, Rebuilding America Now, that spent nearly $20 million. Most of it was used to attack Clinton.
The fishing communities dotted along Africa's often inhospitable coastline have overcome many challenges before. But they now face some of their most difficult challenges ever.
Many depend on fishing for their survival, but their fish stocks are declining and climate change accelerates that decline. The warming, rising, more acidic seas affect habitats and reproduction.
This is an important environmental question, of course, but the stakes go higher than that. Many coastal communities have few other options besides fishing. As a Mauritanian minister once said: "Take fisheries away from our people, and they will have little else to lose." Political and social stability is at risk.
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One of the best ways to build climate resilience for these communities is to protect their primary livelihood, the fish. And as delegates gather in Marrakesh for COP22, they must consider this fact.
Protection will not be easy. Many reports, including the 2014 Africa Progress Report - Grain, Fish, Money - have warned how illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing are destroying fish stocks all around the continent. In West Africa, illegal fishing alone accounts for a third of all fish caught.
The governments of Mauritania, the Seychelles, and others understand this better than anybody, of course, which is why they have been helping to establish the Fisheries Transparency Initiative (FiTI) since early 2015, an initiative to protect fish stocks through the twin principles of transparency and participation.
The FiTI is a global multi-stakeholder initiative, in which countries seek to shed a light on access to fish resources - who has access, what are the (financial) conditions, and how much is extracted? Answering these important questions in a deliberative process will help countries to improve governance in this crucial sector for the benefit of their citizens.
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The FiTI is gathering steam. In addition to Mauritania and the Seychelles, Guinea, Indonesia, and Senegal are the first pilot countries. A first successful funding meeting was held in Washington last month during the Annual Meetings of the IMF / World Bank Group [editor's note ie in October], and under the guidance of an International Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Group, the global FiTI transparency standard will be finalized by early next year.
But the FiTI is not the only programme protecting fish stocks around the world. Rather, it is yet another example of how global fisheries may have reached some kind of tipping point in which they are now at the bottom and have begun the long, slow climb to the top.
In June, for example, a global treaty, the Port State Measures Agreement came into force with some 35 governments, including the European Union, signing up. Momentum is building to end the ridiculous $20 billion worth of annual subsidies that contribute to over-fishing. And some African countries are swapping satellite intelligence to tackle pirate fishing.
Better management of fish stocks will be key to any solutions. The FiTI's two core principles of transparency and broad-based participation will generate the trust and broad-based discussion so critical for the effective management of such a strategic, national resource. So our global multi-stakeholder initiative supports and complements existing efforts and makes them more effective.
Not only does transparency make corruption more difficult in awarding contracts to foreign fleets, for example, it also informs good policy, builds trust, and enables governments to make better decisions. In short, it improves the quality of governance.
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Governments are key partners. They understand well that better fisheries management benefits a country in terms of food and nutrition, jobs, and government revenues to build climate resilience. Indonesia, a major fisheries nation, will host the global FiTI launch conference on 27 April 2017, for example.
But industries also prosper, because better fisheries management provides larger and more sustainable sources of fish stocks. This is why our initiative has more and more support from industry too.
These facts should play to the benefits of the world's -- particularly Africa's -- coastal communities too.
Delegates to COP22 know how the behaviours in one corner of our planet can impact a continent somewhere else. Africa's fishing communities have done so little to contribute to climate change and yet they face the harshest consequences. The least we can do is to help them build resilience, including by protecting their fish stocks.
The results of the 2016 presidential election were beyond surprising. Now that we've had some time to digest them, it's time to find answers on many levels. Perhaps it's best to begin with assessing the role of the media--both traditional and social. To this end, I recently sat down with my friend Jerry Kane, an associate professor at Boston College.
The following are excerpts of our conversation.
PS: How has social media influenced the election cycle?
JK: I do think social media is an inherent part of what have seen play out in the pre-election and post-election politics, but social media is not the whole story. We've heard a lot about "filter bubbles" and the role of fake news in the election cycle, but the real issue is much deeper. It's a vicious cycle between social media, traditional media, and natural human tendencies.
People have inherent tendencies called homophily and confirmation bias. In other words, given the virtually infinite number of choices provided by social media, people tend to seek out people who are like them and information that confirms their existing worldview. The problem is that social media platforms are intentionally designed to exploit these characteristics to increase users' time on the site. To put it simply, social media is intentionally designed to be psychologically addictive by showing people exactly what they want to see. In political discourse, research shows that it leads to polarizing and extreme positions.
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Designing for these human tendencies keeps you engaged in the platform, allowing them to collect more data and show you more advertising. While these design features may be good for business, it doesn't seem to be good for democracy, which depends on exchanging ideas between people who are and think differently from one another.
PS: So, what's the role of traditional media in this process?
JK: Traditional media journalists and editors also have access to social media, and they are increasingly using it as a source for reporting. This relationship also creates a feedback loop. First, it influences the thinking of those who write and curate the news, in the same way as I described earlier. Journalists thinking is increasingly driven by what they see on social media, which has been optimized to reinforce their our worldview. Second, these publishers have access to data analytics, which allows them to assess the popularity of a given story or topic. Knowing which stories or topics are more popular, the site can offer more stories on those popular topics. Third, as the site begins to create more content on those topics, it will attract a new audience whose confirmation bias leads them to seek out that content, reinforcing the cycle. So, not only are social media sites designed to show you what you want to see, the news media is capitalizing on this feature to drive ratings and developed content that appeals to a particular group of people, which introduces bias into the process. Biased news may be a more insidious problem for democracy than fake news.
PS: What's the effect of these trends?
JK: I think we are seeing it play out in the pre- and post-election dynamics. You have two different political groups/ parties who literally have no idea what the other side is talking about or how they could vote for the other candidate. I did an experiment this election season and consumed news from all across the political spectrum. It was fairly shocking how different the perspectives were and fairly exhausting to try and process it all. It's just much easier to give into our confirmation bias. When I tried to engage in discussion with friends or family members on the "issues," discussions often broke down when our different news sources provided markedly different facts.
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PS: Can anything be done to fix this cycle?
JK: That's a hard question, because these outcomes are not an error in the system, it's how each of them are intentionally designed. Certainly people can't simply turn off the tendency toward homophily or confirmation bias, it's part of our genetics. The traditional news media can't just stop being concerned about ratings, it's how they make money. Social media platforms can't just stop refining its design to appeal better serve up the information we want, it's why we keep engaging with the platform.
If you find yourself caught up in this cycle, the best short-term solution may be to break the cycle by stepping away from social media for a bit. Not only might it help bring about peace of mind, but it may also be the best way to motivate social media platforms to address this problem. Their business models are dependent on you trusting them with your time and attention.
PS: Is there anything else that can be done?
Tuesday's election was frightening in many respects. But from an ecological perspective, it is an unimaginable disaster. The United States had recently committed to the Paris agreement to begin addressing climate change, and President Obama recently signed the important agreement on the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) with President Xi of China. But if the incoming president of the U.S. keeps his promises, he will reverse these agreements, deepen our dependence on coal mining, increase oil drilling in the Arctic, and open the way for environmentally destructive methods such as fracking.
One of the world's most effective environmental organizations, 350.org, is normally neutral on political candidates. However, the environmental devastation that would follow from a Trump presidency is so great that even 350.org joined the battle to defeat the Trump campaign.
For people who care about the future of the planet and who pay even passing attention to science, the new presidency represents a devastating defeat. Decades from today, people may look back on this election as the moment when the global community lost its (already slim) chance to prevent run-away global warming.
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That said, we need to take a deep breath. Now, more than ever, we have to roll up our sleeves and get going. There are at least three crucial things those of us who care about the future of our planet need to do, and we have only four years to get them done:
We must redouble our efforts to communicate the planet's actual situation to voters in the United States. Climate change is a bigger threat to jobs, prosperity, and a secure future than any other threat humanity faces.
We must show that there is still hope. There are many positive examples of people and groups [[add link to EcoLabs page of the EcoCiv website]] that are already demonstrating what the transition to a sustainable civilization looks like. We need to walk our talk to embody sustainable modes of living on this planet. A serious environmental movement has its origins at the grassroots; it begins with people whose actions inspire others.
Finally, if we cannot influence our own government in the right directions, we need to increase our international focus. It's now crucial that we help strengthen serious ecological movements around the world. Last night shattered the dream that the United States would take leadership in the move toward an ecological civilization, at least for the next four years. By contrast, in Europe, in Asia, and around the planet, people and organizations are actually taking decisive steps -- as individuals, organizations, NGOs, and governments. Even if we cannot bring about change in our own country, we can support the efforts of the people who can make and are making a difference.
As a scholar of religion and science, I know that it's not enough just to list the facts and figures. We must also be committed to investing our souls, spirits, and resources to assist in the transition to an ecological civilization. Please fight discouragement and despair, the desire to give up now. The work on behalf of our planet has only become more important. It calls for a greater investment of time and money than ever before.
So let's now join our efforts together with renewed energy in the fight for the planet. We may or may not be able to avoid an environmental catastrophe, along with the collapse of economies and social structures that it would bring. Yet in the fight for a deep transformation of society, we can help humanity prepare for the collapse, teaching people (and ourselves!) how to find ecological ways to live on this earth over the long term. In these actions we will find renewed hope.
And if we are successful, perhaps we will avoid the collapse after all.
Just a few points to start off: There are no "Islamic countries" as in countries that are in perfect compliance with Islam's normative teachings. There are certainly Muslim majority countries however, so I will answer the question based on this. Muslim majority countries, more than 56 of them, are widely diverse. One cannot make a single general statement on the role of women that would apply everywhere. Bosnia is different from Yemen is different from Indonesia. What I can say however is this: The status of women in any country, including Muslim majority countries, is more the product of human development than religion. We love to blame religion for everything and it's not hard to understand why. When fathers marry off their child in Yemen, they may say Islam allows this. Yet, other factors predict child marriage far more than religion. In Yemen, 52% of girls are married before 18. However, in Algeria, the average age of marriage for women is higher than it is in the US (female general public). The difference between Yemen and Algeria is education and economic development, not Islam.
Mum and son (6-7) drawing
Our country made history on Tuesday, but not the way that we expected.
Instead of our first woman President, our country elected someone with open contempt for our Constitution and our democracy, an anti-Founding Father.
And the next morning my wife Robbie and I had to tell our 10-year-old son Jacob that Donald Trump would be our next President. His immediate reaction of fear, shock, and horror broke our hearts. Jacob told us how scared he was that he wouldn't be safe. He wanted to know what would come next. He asked what would happen about global warming. And he worried about friends, a gay couple we had recently stayed with while canvassing in Ohio for Hillary Clinton.
Are they going to be OK? he asked.
Yes, we told him, they would be.
But they live in Ohio, and he pointed to the map on the front page of the New York Times.
See, it's red. That means it went for Trump.
How will they be OK?
We looked at him. The truth is that his fears are valid. But our reassurance is also true: You are safe.
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Our friends will be OK: they have each other, friends, family and community -- a good life.
This election and Presidency is part of a process.
We don't like it, but sometimes in democracies things happen that we don't like.
And then we read him the comforting words that our Rabbi had sent us.
Jacob is also right: global warming will be tougher to fix now, along with a multitude of other issues. And while we and our friends will be fine, so many others will not be.
Jacob processes his thoughts and feelings by drawing them out. So, once he had overcome his initial shock, he began to draw a plan to deal with the Trump Presidency.
His first drawing was an expression of pure aggression -- he showed it to us and asked us what we thought.
Well, we said, it looks very... Trumpian.
He stared at us and back at his drawing, and then said, that won't work.
Tossing his original drawing aside, Jacob came back with a clean sheet of paper.
And together, as a family, Jacob and his two Jewish mothers drew up a plan.
The very fact that the three of us are a family, in every legal and emotional sense of that word, is already a refutation of so much of the hate and ignorance that has spewed out this campaign season.
So here's the plan that Jacob drew up.
First, we decided, we needed to get stronger.
Then, we want to spend more time with the people we love.
We will also do more direct service helping others, because service requires us to see hardship and those whom it affects, and is also an active reminder that we do have the power to make change through our individual actions, however small.
The next step is to learn something new and hard, to surprise our minds and stay engaged.
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And the last step? I'm sure you can guess. We go out and win back our country.
The Trump voters wanted us to feel their rage and pain.
Well, we do.
There is no doubt that the Trump campaign was fueled by racism, antisemitism, misogyny and xenophobia. By the hate and fear of being economically displaced, of experiencing a supposedly natural order of female subordination being upended, of anticipating an American future that is racially, ethnically, and culturally diverse. And now the rest of us are experiencing the bleak inversion of that parade of horribles: a menacing white majority and cratering economy, the further degradation of our environment, the evisceration of Obamacare and the Voting Rights Act, the rollback of reproductive and civil rights.
So I don't know if the putative reconciliation that is being tentatively invoked by some is a possibility. While we all may share the same spectrum of negative emotions, the basis of our fears is radically opposed, as are our proposed solutions. We all understand that economic instability needs to be addressed, but the root question of why it exists is not so easily agreed upon - much less its redress.
That real divide does not make the problem of inequality and instability any less urgent. Nor does one season of successful political and social bullying determine the course of American history. Dahlia Lithwick has written an incredible piece in Slate entitled 'Will Trump's Rule of Law Be Our Rule of Law?', asking whether Americans and our democratic institutions will bend to one man's will and version of the law?
Date: 11th November 2016
The Honorable Donald Trump
President-Elect of the United States of America
Dear Mr. President-Elect,
I have the pleasure of extending my congratulations on your election as the 45th President of the United States of America, and my best wishes for the success of your Presidency to bring, peace, happiness, and prosperity for the American people.
I would like to take this opportunity to bring to your attention issues that are of vital importance for the future of the Iranian people and their relationship with the United States in particular, and the international community at large.
Today, the Iranian people, the Middle East and the free world face an existential threat from radical Islam, which is a direct by-product of "Khomeinism" and its revolution in Iran in 1979. Ever since, the leaders of the Islamic Republic have methodically executed their plan of exporting Khomeini's ideology of political Islam. This regressive ideology has spread like a cancer across the globe: from the Middle East to Asia and Africa, and even to Europe and the Americas.
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To further their aims, the leaders of the Islamic Republic and their henchmen have used terrorism, political assassinations, mass executions, crimes against humanity, cyber terrorism, proxy wars, hostage taking, money laundering, as well as arms and drug trafficking, which has resulted in regional and global destabilization and conflicts.
Fifteen months ago, the Iran National Council for Free Elections declared our conditional support for the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action on the nuclear program, primarily to avert the risk of war and prevent the theocratic regime from obtaining a nuclear weapon. However, at the time we warned that it is an illusion to think that the engagement policy could moderate the behavior of the Islamic Republic, and that unless the provisions of the agreement are enforced unequivocally, the agreement would indeed embolden the regime, to both increase its oppression at home and its hegemonic policies abroad.
That is why we asked that safeguards be implemented, so as to ensure that the regime cannot use the billions of dollars that the lifting of sanctions would release, to finance oppression and terrorism, and to sow regional conflicts and proxy wars.
Mr. President-Elect, the overwhelming majority of the Iranian people wish to be partners with the free world and participate in its values of humanism and democracy. This urge for freedom is best exemplified by the daily struggles of Iranian women who are treated as second-class citizens. They continue to demonstrate their desire for equality, despite the continuous brutal oppression that is waged upon them.
Our struggle is not about religions, nor is it a war of civilizations. We are engaged in a struggle of values against those advanced by radical Islam. In any event, the solution is neither war, nor maintaining the status quo. The best policy for defeating political Islam is to support the democratic desire of the Iranian people: to engage, once and for all, in a true dialogue with the secular and democratic forces.
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It is important to recognize and acknowledge that the only effective and legitimate form of political change in Iran, is a process implemented by and at the hands of the Iranian people. Moral and political support from the free world for the vast majority of Iranians can only be regarded as a positive contribution to a swift, non-violent transition to a secular and democratic government through free and fair elections in Iran.
The Iran National Council for Free Elections hopes that your administration will bear in mind the aspiration of the Iranian people and engage the secular democratic forces, providing support for the struggle of my fellow compatriots for peace, freedom, and democracy.
Yours sincerely,
One of the most consequential statistics of the presidential election is that more than 80 percent of white, "evangelical" Christians supported Donald Trump. From Florida to the Rust Belt states of Ohio, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, the votes of those who self-identify as evangelical formed the core of President-elect Trump's support.
Questions about this overwhelming endorsement reverberated during the campaign. How could self-described, "family-values" Christians support a thrice-married adulterer who bragged about his ability to engage in sexual harassment? When he talked about building a wall and referred to Mexicans as "rapists," where was the invocation of Leviticus 19:33-34, which commands the Israelites to welcome and even "love" the resident alien among them? The Apostle Paul was absolutely correct that "all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God" (Rom 3:2), but there was a striking shift in this election. Many polls indicated that a majority of "evangelicals" no longer attach much importance to personal morality as a prerequisite for effective and faithful public service.
The events of this nasty campaign and the election of Mr. Trump warrant a reevaluation of how we use "evangelical." The Greek word, euangelion, means "good news," as in Mark 1:1. "The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ." Within the New Testament, an "evangelist" is someone who announces a profound way of being in the world, built on love of God and neighbor, protection of the poor, and humility. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus requires believers through their faith and action to share this specific message of sticking up for the most vulnerable (e.g., Matthew 25).
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It is time to reclaim the "evangelical" designation for a much broader swath of believers, to demand that pollsters and pundits quit asking whether someone self-identifies as an "evangelical" when finding out political preferences. Perhaps a satisfactory alternative and more accurate designation would be "politically conservative Christian."
Within the new landscape of a Trump presidency, "evangelical" could indicate someone who stands on the front lines against injustice. Might some Christians across the political spectrum bring "good news" to a divided country by repudiating racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobic harassment, sexism, and bullying in all of their insidious forms? When any person, from the President or a college student, exhibits bigotry, the only Christian response is unequivocal condemnation. Already the Klu Klux Klan has announced that they will march in North Carolina to celebrate President-elect Trump's victory. The example of the Hebrew prophets and Jesus himself necessitates direct protest against this type of event. To allow such behavior to fester and infect our common life is the antithesis of what it means to be "evangelical."
Believers do not have to agree on every hot-button issue to find common ground. Progressives have often been snide and dismissive of politically conservative Christians, leading to divisions in communities and even families. Conversely, politically conservative Christians have acted like support for gay marriage and differing views on reproductive rights for women are indicative of immoral, perverse, and therefore un-Christian beliefs. Undoubtedly these tensions will persist, but one hope (I would even call it a necessity) is that at least some believers might bridge differences over hot-button issues and speak up together about the "good news" of Jesus's ministry of compassion and justice. Many younger believers are demonstrating their willingness to work across longstanding dividing lines.
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Martin Luther King, Jr., in his "Letter from a Birmingham Jail," declared that inaction among his fellow Christians is contrary to the model of the first Christians: "If today's church does not recapture the sacrificial spirit of the early church, it will lose its authenticity, forfeit the loyalty of millions, and be dismissed as an irrelevant social club with no meaning for the twentieth century." Dr. King's warning and personal example are more timely than ever, as churches of all stripes struggle with dwindling numbers and a growing sense of irrelevance. The central reason for this slide into irrelevance is the frequent unwillingness to be passionate defenders of love of God and neighbor, which Jesus describes as the core of the faith (Matt 22:36-40). Jesus's call to radical discipleship necessitates direct action whenever bigotry and injustice occur. Such action is our best, most authentic hope for growing the church.
There is plenty of evidence to suggest Trump is both ignorant of and disinterested in democratic norms, but what does that mean?
Here's a quick mental exercise to help that answer that question.
First, the setup: In 2013, President Obama nominated Republican James B. Comey to run the FBI. He could have chosen a member of his own party, but in the spirit of bipartisanship he didn't. Democrats helped to confirm Director Comey. The Senate voted 93-1, with only Republican Senator Rand Paul voting against.
Leaving aside the question of how much damage Director Comey's unprecedented politicizing of the Bureau's investigation of Hillary Clinton's use of a private email server did to her chances of winning the Presidency, we know from reporting done by the New York Times and others that Comey's October 28th letter to Congress was likely in response to pressure he felt from "rogue" anti-Clinton agents in the FBI's New York field office. Apparently worried that a leak from these agents would reflect badly on his apolitical reputation, Comey notified Congress about the discovery of emails on a laptop used by Huma Abedin and the news dominated the final two weeks of the campaign, dampening enthusiasm for a Clinton presidency and energizing Trump's Republican supporters.
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Here's the exercise: In a Trump administration, will these anti-Clinton FBI agents be investigated and punished for leaking information to a sympathetic reporter at the Wall Street Journal and the Trump campaign itself (via Trump surrogate and rumored future Attorney General Rudolph Giuliani)? Or might they even be rewarded and promoted for their unethical and criminal acts which helped Trump secure the White House (and Giuliani the top law enforcement job in the country)?
If your answers are "no" to the first question and "yes" to the second, congratulations, that's dictatorship - where the nation's police force uses its investigatory power to undermine and discredit the leader's political enemies.
Back to Obama's nomination of Comey, who had formerly served as a senior Justice Department official under President George W. Bush. Will Trump and the GOP follow Obama's bipartisan example by nominating and confirming a Democrat to run the FBI? Or will President Trump instead choose a useful ally, one who might be counted on to authorize or at the very least permit the power of the FBI to undermine Trump's enemies, including the next Democratic nominee?
If your answers are "no" to the first question and "yes" to the second, congratulations, you have a sense of what's coming.
By Dylan Scott
WASHINGTON -- There are so many unknowns about how President-elect Donald Trump will change health policy. But one early tell will be who he taps to lead the Department of Health and Human Services.
A lot of names are floating around right now, and initial speculation can seem ill-conceived in hindsight; we never had HHS Secretary Tom Daschle under President Obama, after all.
Nevertheless, here are possible contenders for the most powerful position in health policy, according to early and often anonymously sourced reports.
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Ben Carson
Trump praised the famed surgeon throughout the 2016 campaign, and his name is one of the most frequently mentioned in early reports.
Carson hasn't said whether he'd take the HHS role, and he'd have no government experience to lean on.
His own health plan during his presidential campaign focused almost entirely on expanding access to health savings accounts. Carson has also, since Trump's victory, urged Republicans to make sure they have a replacement plan ready before they repeal the Affordable Care Act.
Bobby Jindal
Jindal, the former Louisiana governor, has been a front-runner for a Republican administration cabinet post for years, and the Wall Street Journal reported that he is among the contenders Trump is considering.
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He has administrative experience as a governor and spent time in the US House.
Jindal released his own health care plan to replace the ACA during his presidential campaign. It was designed to shift the conversation from one about coverage to one about costs, his former aides say. It also shared a lot in common with Trump's stated agenda: shoring up high-risk pools, expanded health savings accounts, block-granting Medicaid.
Newt Gingrich
The former House speaker would bring a wealth of knowledge to the position, but it remains to be seen whether he winds up at HHS, or the State Department, or in some more amorphous advisory role.
Aside from ACA and Medicare reform, Gingrich has been an enthusiastic supporter of the National Institutes of Health since his days as speaker, and he called last year for doubling the NIH budget. He styles himself as something of a science nerd.
Gingrich has also been outspoken about the opioid crisis and he advocates for medication-assisted treatment.
Rich Bagger
Bagger has advised Trump's transition team, and Politico calls him a "longer shot" to take over HHS. He worked under New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, one of Trump's most loyal allies, and as a top executive at the drug companies Celgene and Pfizer.
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Trump's transition website says he wants to "reform the Food and Drug Administration, to put greater focus on the need of patients for new and innovative medical products," an area where Bagger would be useful.
By Eric Boodman
At parties and bars, he introduces himself as a "rat tickler."
The title makes Shimpei Ishiyama sound like he belongs in some forgotten guild of yore, with the Victorian "pure-finders," who collected dog dung for a living, and the "flankers and flaggers," who kept partridges in the range of hunters' guns.
But he is, in actual fact, a neuroscientist, and his rat-tickling is anything but antiquated. By trying to titillate these rodents -- and recording how their neurons respond -- Ishiyama and his adviser are unraveling a mystery that has puzzled thinkers ever since Aristotle posited that humans, given their thin skin and unique ability to laugh, were the only ticklish animals.
Aristotle was wrong, it turns out. In a study published Thursday in Science, Ishiyama and his adviser, Michael Brecht, not only found that rats squeaked and jumped with pleasure when tickled on their backs and bellies, but also that these signs of joy changed according to the rodents' moods. And, for the first time, they pinpointed a cluster of neurons that makes this sensation so powerful that it causes an individual being tickled to lose control.
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"It's truly innovative and groundbreaking," said Jeffrey Burgdorf, a neuroscientist at Northwestern University who reviewed the paper. "It takes the study of emotion to a new level."
Burgdorf has played a central role in our understanding of animal tickling. He was part of a team that first noticed, in the late 1990s, that rats make a symphony of noises when they are experiencing social pleasure. Others had already noted that they trill and yip and sing during sex and meals -- all above the range of human hearing -- but the lab where Burgdorf worked noticed that the rodents emitted similar sounds while playing. And so one day, the senior scientist in the lab said, "Let's go tickle some rats."
They quickly found that those cries of pleasure doubled. But other researchers didn't share the rats' joy. Prominent scientists of emotion tried to impede the publication, accusing the team of "the sin of anthropomorphism," Burgdorf and his colleague Jaak Panksepp wrote in a review paper in 2003.
Tickling -- and why it has such a powerful effect on us -- has remained largely mysterious.
"Here's the problem in a nutshell, and it's a little philosophical," Burgdorf told STAT. "In order for us to function, we have to ignore about 90 percent of our sensory information. We have to process only the important stimuli. What the brain is doing is saying this tickling is important, and I'm going to be able to discriminate this kind of stimulation from other kinds of stimulation."
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Ishiyama, a postdoc at Humboldt University in Berlin, wanted to figure out how that worked.
Everyone knows how to titillate an ocelot -- you oscillate its tit a lot. But designing a rigorous experiment on how tickling is processed by rat brains isn't as obvious, and is hardly mainstream in neuroscience.
What Ishiyama did was to drill tiny holes into the rodents' skulls and insert wires into their brains that could pick up or elicit electrical currents. A day later, he said, they were fully recovered from the operation -- and were ready for tickling.
Using a terrarium typically reserved for lab shrews, Ishiyama made a "tickle box," covering its walls with black foam. Then, he lifted the rats out of their cages, bringing them to the box, and tickling them, on and off, for 15 minutes. All the while, their brain activity was being picked up by electrodes, zinging up through the holes in their skulls and along wires that fed into a computer, while a special microphone recorded their ultrasonic squeaks.
He found that certain networks of neurons in a brain region called the somatosensory cortex began to fire when he tickled the rats. It didn't start immediately; they had to learn first that Ishiyama's tickling hand wasn't a threat. Once they did, though, they went wild, chasing his hand when he stopped tickling them, making joy jumps and pleasure squeaks when he did.
"At the first day, they rarely chased my hand, they didn't recognize my hand as a playmate yet," he said. "But after a few days they learned, and they started playing with my hand."
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What was surprising was that the same neurons in the somatosensory cortex fired while the rats were playing with his hand, as though the tickling was still going on.
"If I transfer them to the tickle box, some rats already start vocalizing because they know I will tickle them," said Ishiyama.
But when he put them in a stressful situation -- balancing them on a small platform with their nocturnal faces blinded by a bright light -- they no longer reacted to the tickling, either in their behavior or in their brain activity.
To make sure that he had indeed found a place in the brain where tickling is processed, Ishiyama then stimulated that area with electrical currents. The rats began to jump like rabbits and sing like birds.
"The authors have been very adventurous; they are not looking under the streetlamp," said Daniel O'Connor, a neuroscientist at Johns Hopkins who studies touch, and who was not involved in the study.
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O'Connor noted that the perception of touch -- the shape and texture of an object, whether it's vibrating -- are different from the emotions triggered, and neuroscientists often thought that the emotional response wasn't processed in the somatosensory cortex along with the more basic feelings. To him, that finding was very surprising.
A grizzly bear reminds motorists to obey road rules in Denali National Park in Alaska. Photo credit: Jonathan Irish
To look out onto the wildness of the open Alaskan tundra, you will start to understand why Denali is the most visited and well-known of all of Alaska's national parks--it's a place that personifies wilderness.
Where the wild things are, we go in Denali. Photo credit: Jonathan Irish
Denali (formerly Mt. McKinley) National Park in interior Alaska is home to the highest peak in North America, and you would think that it is that distinction that earned it National Park protection. It was, however, the first national park that was protected as a wildlife habitat and sanctuary. In the early part of the 20th century, after spending a great deal of time in the area observing wildlife species, a naturalist named Charles Sheldon began approaching Congress about setting aside the land he loved so dear so that poachers and hunters wouldn't destroy the populations of birdlife, caribou, wolves, moose, grizzlies, and Dall sheep that inhabited the region. His efforts proved successful and in 1917, President Woodrow Wilson established Mt. McKinley National Park--Alaska's first national park.
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One hundred years later, thanks to Sheldon's efforts, we as visitors are able to head out into the wilderness of Alaska on what we can only compare to African Safari--American style. In the African bush, wildlife lovers are in search of "the big five"--lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. In the Alaskan wild, also referred to as "the bush," visitors seek glimpses of the American Big Five: wolves, Dall sheep, caribou, grizzlies, and moose. Guided bus rides are spent searching for animals in their natural setting. Grizzly bears appear as golden thimbles on the expanse. Moose stick their prominent noses out of the brush. Elusive wolves and lynx can be spotted in the early morning and late afternoon in search of food. Alaska's state bird, the Ptarmigan, wander among the lowland trees. Golden eagles fly overhead. It's as if time has stood still here; animals conducting themselves as they have for millennia.
The Denali landscape scenery is no less extraordinary than the animals living in its vastness. Taking a macro view, you will see the soft beauty of a Renaissance-era landscape painting. Focusing in on the components, you will begin to see all of the little details that make the painting view even more incredible--the braided rivers, the spruce trees, open tundra, boreal wetlands, and of course, the wildlife that calls it all home.
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A shy moose peeks out of the brush. Photo credit: Jonathan Irish
And then there is the mountain--Denali--the tallest peak in North America standing at 20,320-feet above sea level. The word "Denali" is native Athabascan for 'The High One' or "The Great One." It is so high that it creates its own weather system rendering it invisible two thirds of the time, meaning that many visitors may never see the fabled peak during their time in its midst. On the bright side, there is so much else to see and do at the park that you won't feel like you've missed a thing by the time you pack up to leave, whether you see the mountain or not.
Denali, "The Great One," in black and white. Photo credit: Jonathan Irish
Denali National Park is 6 million acres in size, and in that space there is only one driving road. Even the most basic math skills will tell you that those two factors make it a challenging place to safely explore. That lack of easy access can be greatly limiting. But that's part of the draw--once you figure out how to get out there, you will find yourself without anyone else around for miles--tens of miles; hundreds of miles, thousands upon thousand of miles.
In that spirit, we wanted to concisely outline several popular ways to get into Denali National Park and Preserve, and some awesome stops to check out while there. Read on!
Denali Park Road
Denali Park Road is the only road in the national park. Private vehicles can travel 15 miles of it, and beyond that, its 92-miles must be explored aboard a concessioner-operated tour/shuttle bus that offers daily trips to the road's end. The narrated, scenic drive through the park is geared primarily to wildlife viewing, the most commonly seen species being grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and birds. While you may get lucky and see wildlife on or near the road, you will most likely see them from a bit of a distance so bring binoculars and/or a telephoto lens to get a closer look.
Concessioner operated shuttle busses also facilitate multi-use access allowing riders to hop on and hop off at popular backcountry areas and campsites along the road so they can more easily get off the tourist trail and explore the park on foot.
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To make arrangements for any and all types of bus tours in Denali, head to the Wilderness Access Center near the park entrance and plan in advance due to the popular nature of the experience.
A concessioner-operated tour bus on Denali Park Road, the only road in the park, stretching 92 miles. Photo credit: Stefanie Payne
Camping & Hiking
Camping is without a doubt one of the most cost-effective ways to experience the park in a more intimate way. Established campgrounds are situated up to 30 miles along Denali Park Road and must be reserved in advance. As private vehicles are only allowed 15 miles of access, campers are granted a special road permit with their reservation to drive to and from the campground that they are staying at only once (there are guards along the way, so no funny business!) Whether tent camping or boondocking with your RV or travel trailer (Wally the Airstream was so happy at the Teklanika campground!) you will have the wilderness on your doorstep in every direction and can set off to explore wherever you want from there--a way into the wild!
Wally the Airstream found a sweet spot in the Teklanika campground, located 30 miles in on Denali Park Road. Photo credit: Stefanie Payne
Backcountry Camping
Denali is a wide open and trail-less expanse that satisfies perfectly those who want to get off-grid and sleep in the wild while setting up their own accommodations along the way. You have to have some backcountry chops to take this on--dangerous wildlife roams free throughout the entire park, weather changes on a dime, and services and emergency help are few and far between and sometimes, days away. Backpackers in Denali have to be armed with their fair share of self-sufficiency and survival skills. Once you have that squared away, you are free of all of your common tethers in Denali's stunningly rugged wilderness.
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Flightseeing Tours
If you can drop a bit of coin, a flightseeing tour by plane or by helicopter is a great way to get a comprehensive glimpse of the vastness and intricate beauty that makes up the landscape of Denali National Park and Preserve. Cost per person typically starts around $200 an hour, and goes right on up depending on where you go and what type of trip you take. For companies operating in the area, we refer to the Denali National Park flightseeing page which offers up plenty of recommendations.
To engage in a comprehensive look at the breadth of Denali's 6-million acre landscape, hop on a bush plane and enjoy a flightseeing tour! Photo credit: Stefanie Payne
Lodges
Gather ye hope from the "Faithless Electors!" Though there has long been a case for eliminating the disproportional power of Electoral College, their power could still pivot the 2016 election, indeed, exactly as the framers intended should the populace elect an unfit candidate.
A new Change.org petition urges the 538 electors to invoke their right to break loyalty with their states and vote according to personal conscience. The petition gathered over 2,000,000 signatures at a rate of 30,000 per minute by the end of its first day and now approaches 4,000,000 signatures.
Throughout American history, 157 electors have invoked this right, (71 because the candidate died; but 86 for personal conscience.) Although a long-shot, a break by as little as 10 electors voting according to their party pledge could yet salvage what seems an untenable situation. If as many as 42 faithless electors emerged for Mrs. Clinton, the process would be further shortened. It could be messy, as state laws have their own rules surrounding faithless electors. Some could face fines of $1,000. Nonetheless, the opportunity for faithless electors to vote their conscience offers a crucial crack through which shines hope for millions of Americans.
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Although the Electoral College is largely seen as an antiquated constitutional construct, the framers designed it specifically to balance the will of the people with the critical need for an intellectually and morally fit president. The New York Times notes: "[I]n an era that predated mass media and even political parties, they were concerned that average Americans would lack enough information about the candidates to make intelligent choices. So informed 'electors' would stand in for them."
Never has there been a greater imbalance. Never has the Electoral College been called upon to use their superpowers as they are now. Shamelessly manipulated by political propaganda and decaying media integrity (fringe, mass, and social), cognitive dissonance is at an all-time high, and Americans now face a cataclysmic future should the situation be solidified by the Electoral College.
Americans wanted change. Left only with a choice between change that drives our Constitution off the proverbial cliff or a perceived status quo, they chose the cliff. The problem is that hitting the "rock bottom" of the cliff would effectively splat the healthiest values of an already ailing America. The framers intended the Electoral College to serve as a safety net to such a cliff.
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Although at first depicted as a futile Hail Mary, the Change.org petition and letter asking the electors to vote their conscience now offers fragile hope for millions of Americans who, for four full days, have hit their knees in a prayer for deliverance from the catastrophic November 8th election of Donald Trump.
Hail Mary passes have been known to work. As a constitutionally legal procedure, both parties would be obligated to honor the outcome, just as the 2000 Supreme Court Bush v. Gore decision was honored. In an already ailing America, a close call would become a wake-up call of epic proportions perhaps sufficient to rattle the status quo.
It's a long shot, but America may yet snatch victory from the jaws of defeat, a timeworn phrase which suddenly brightens the hopeful heart for American dignity.
Please, add your name to the petition: Electoral College: Make Hillary Clinton President on December 19, and SHARE with all your might! Your comments and insights to this article are welcome.
See also:
Electoral College Can Stop Unfit Trump with Another Republican
As a foodie through and through, I gravitate toward food people.
I love finding that wonderful butcher, fishmonger or baker and immersing myself in their inspiring world. I am almost magically attracted to places where the staff are totally jazzed about the products; where their "work" feels more like play. I practically want to fix these people up with my cousin's best friend or my best friend's cousin, just so that we can talk about food at family gatherings. One of my favorite foodie field trips is to the Fatted Calf, next to the Oxbow Market in downtown Napa, California.
The Fatted Calf is a small specialty butcher joyfully offering off the hook charcuterie created in small batches with seasonal ingredients. This lovely little shop's young and very attractive butchers are exuberant and fun as they describe their unique products. As an accomplished and energetic cook, I am definitely one to make my pork shoulder, but a glance around Fatted Calf made me reconsider. Their breathtaking pork shoulder al' Diavolo, stuffed with a tantalizing spice citrus marinade, didn't just call my name-it serenaded me. It was love at first sight.
The Fatted Calf is known for their mortadella, salumi, and chorizo. The smoked meats and bacon can best be described as divine. Their French-inspired, old world techniques are crossed with high-voltage, modern, vital artisans. This "kick-ass place," as director of operations, Heather Bailie describes it, is owned by Taylor Boetticher and Toponia Miller who started the company in 2004 in the DogPatch neighborhood of San Francisco. What began as a stand at a farmers' market grew to two locations with 40 full time employees. My personal favorites are the very large delicious craft beer links which I purchase often-they are like an elevated, high quality gastropub hot dog and are crazy good, with a wonderful pop-it's like a celebration!-and especially savory paired with their homemade sauerkraut and a tangy mustard.
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Talking to that hot butcher lady is always a treat. Alex the manager is one of my favorite foodie-proprietors, but today Heather Bailie helped me, and she's about as enthusiastic as you can get about their selection. Every detail is in order at this very cool shop, even down to their classic butcher uniform with a twist: black short sleeve shirt and long black apron with red stitching that says Fatted Calf-utilitarian chic to be sure. Bailie is so proud of all they do and even gave me a tour of the curing room where they are curing hundreds of all kinds of salumi.
The discovery and exploitation of very large shale gas reserves in countries like the United States have transformed the energy market. South Africa may also possess potentially large resources of shale gas. This could have a significant positive impact on the country's energy balance should it be decided to exploit these resources.
The exploitation of these key energy resources might also have a significant social, economic or environmental impact while also presenting considerable technical challenges.
Given the recent challenges the country is facing in terms of energy supply, the possibility of exploiting shale gas deposits for power generation is of current significance. Shale gas also presents other downstream opportunities. Some include providing a key resource for the production of liquid fuels and chemicals, or enabling the development of a domestic market for gas as a cleaner energy resource.
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Uncertainties
South Africa's Karoo region, in the south west of the country, is thought to have significant reserves of shale gas. Recently there has been considerable interest from the government and various companies like Shell, Falcon and Bundu to develop a shale gas industry there. Considerable uncertainties exist regarding the extent of these reserves and the geology at depths where they are typically found. These and other uncertainties and constraints include the following.
The quantum of shale gas in the Karoo is still unclear: estimates range between 20 and 400 trillion cubic feet. None of these reserves has yet been proven.
There are also constraints relating to geographical regions. For example, no fracking may take place in the vicinity of the Square Kilometre Array station project. The project consists of the largest network of radio telescopes ever built.
Ensuring that no hydraulic fracturing takes place at depths less than 1500m to protect groundwater resources will also reduce the geographical area of interest.
Shale gas exploitation requires the use of relatively large quantities of water. Given that potable groundwater should preferably not be used for any such exploitation, greater clarity is needed on the availability of deep-level saline water. This is considered to be acceptable for use in hydraulic fracturing.
Baseline studies need to be carried out to ascertain with greater certainty the environment at depths greater than 3 km underground. Such baseline studies should also ensure that there is a clear understanding of the status of the human and natural environments before any fracking commences.
South Africa has a serious shortage of the high-level skills that would be required to implement such an industry. Strategies need to be set in place to develop skills to ensure sustainable development of the shale gas industry.
International experience has highlighted the critical need to have all the necessary legislative and regulatory structures in place. But also, a sufficient number of regulators with the required skills before a shale gas industry is launched.
The implementation of a shale gas industry in an area like the Karoo may have a significant socio-economic impact on the local population. Similar concerns have been expressed in studies especially from Canada and Australia. So it is important to ensure that there is a full understanding of the potential impact. Plans must be developed to manage them.
Resolution of these uncertainties requires extensive and ongoing consultation with all relevant parties. As such government has an important role to play as an honest broker of key information.
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Risk and challenges
These uncertainties point to specific risks and challenges associated with the establishment of a shale gas industry in South Africa. This will require government to create an enabling environment to encourage investment in the industry while also ensuring that the state and local communities benefit. It is also critical that there is clarity regarding the pricing structures that may prevail. This is crucial when the industry begins to exploit the shale gas reserves, and obviously requires a clearer understanding of the potential quantum of the known reserves.
Establishing a shale gas industry presents complex technical and economic challenges, and implementation will require a whole-of-government approach.
A structure at government level to facilitate and coordinate all the activities relating to the industry is recommended. This could coordinate the awarding of licences by various government departments and would have oversight of the activities of the regulators.
Awarding a production licence should proceed after satisfactory completion of terms associated with an exploration licence. This would require operators to demonstrate compliance of processes with legislation.
It is evident that before a shale gas industry in South Africa is implemented, important baseline studies need to be done. This will determine both the exact status quo prior to the commencement of a shale gas industry and the technical, social and economic consequences of such a development.
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Cyril O'Connor, Emeritus Professor Department of Chemical Engineering Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of Cape Town
Maritime security is a major challenge for the poorer coastal and island countries of the Indian Ocean Region. In particular those that have large zones of maritime jurisdiction. The Indian Ocean is the world's third largest ocean. It has an area of around 73.5 million square kilometres. Unlike the Pacific and the Atlantic, it is enclosed on three sides by landmasses.
The Indian Ocean region comprises all the littoral and island states of that ocean. Some of these nations also share borders with the Persian Gulf and Red Sea. There are fortyeight independent countries in the region including hinterland and landlocked states of East Africa and South Asia. There are 18 in Africa, 11 in the Middle East, seven in South Asia, six in Southeast Asia, five island states, and Australia.
The island states of Madagascar, Mauritius, Maldives and Seychelles, for example, have maritime zones of around 1 million square kilometres or more. Some west Indian Ocean states, notably Somalia and Yemen, also have large maritime zones that are fish rich. They are open to illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing. But also other forms of maritime crime, including piracy, drug and arms smuggling.
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Managing maritime security is a challenging endeavour. It requires cooperation between regional countries, and between those with a stake in regional security. Maritime security is no longer the sole prerogative of navies with more non-military agencies now involved.
Maritime security is a priority for the Indian Ocean Rim Association, currently the main regional organisation for economic and security cooperation. It recently committed its members to working on increasing cooperation among navies and other maritime security forces in the region. The plan is to do this collaboratively with the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium, a voluntary initiative to address shared maritime security challenges and threats. The threats include illegal trafficking in drugs, arms and people, piracy, terrorism, illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing, and the risks of natural disasters.
But there are many challenges with developing effective management in the Indian Ocean region. The diversity of interests among regional countries is a problem. There is no agreement on what encompasses maritime security. African countries in the region are more concerned about local issues of governance, poverty, disease and internal security than the broader strategic issues that concern the wider region.
The African Union has developed the 2050 Africa's Integrated Maritime strategy. It makes a clear link between maritime security and human security. It does this by drawing attention to threats in the maritime domain.
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This strategy provides a framework for cooperation but much more still needs to be done. Obstacles to effective cooperation include, lack of capacity and political will, as well as maritime boundary and sovereignty disputes.
Much more cooperation needed
There is clearly a need for enhanced civil maritime security cooperation. This must include coastguards and equivalent national agencies of regional members. In April 2016, a consensus was recognised, looking at the importance of cooperation between navies, coastguards and other agencies. The aim was to develop cooperation to tackle traditional and non-traditional threats in the region.
Many countries in the region have separate navies and coast guards. Exceptions include Madagascar, Mozambique, Kenya, Tanzania, Myanmar, South Africa, Thailand and Timor-Leste that only have navies. Mauritius, Seychelles and Maldives only have coast guards.
Indonesia has recently established a coast guard despite some reluctance by other agencies to concede responsibilities to the new force. Kenya has rejected its earlier plan for a coast guard. Instead the country chose to boost inter-agency coordination. The South African Navy performs the coast guard function and shows characteristics of a coast guard rather than a navy.
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France and its Indian Ocean territories, like Reunion and Mayotte, are an interesting case. France uses its navy in coast guard roles along with some other European countries, including Portugal and Spain. A similar principle has been followed by former French and Portuguese colonies in the region, like Madagascar and Timor-Leste. Even former British colonies Kenya and Tanzania display a strong institutional impulse based on the colonial legacy to maintain distinctly military structures.
Regional architecture
Another hurdle is the lack of effective regional architecture for the task. The Indian Ocean Rim Association has broad oversight, but most initial effort is through the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium. However, there is some scepticism about the symposium's ability to make a broader contribution to maritime security. There is too much focus much on naval cooperation risks, diverting attention from real requirements.
These include maritime governance, capacity-building, developing national legislation, development, and poverty alleviation. A regional forum of civil agencies involved in maritime security might help overcome this challenge.
The involvement of extra-regional countries in regional arrangements is also a challenge. The major powers of the United States, China and Japan have legitimate interests in regional maritime security. But there are sensitivities as to how involved they should be.
Given these challenges, sub-regional cooperation may be more achievable. For example, cooperation through organisations like the Indian Ocean Commission in the Southwest Indian Ocean, the Gulf Cooperation Council and the African Union. This may be the most effective way of taking regional maritime security management forward.
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Sam Bateman, Professorial Fellow, Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security, University of Wollongong
French philosopher Rene Descartes believed that the pineal gland, a tiny button of neurons located in the depth of our brain, was the seat of the soul.
Today, thanks to palaeontology, genetic and developmental studies, we know that it is actually the evolutionary relic of a long-vanished organ, the third eye. This is also known as the pineal eye and is a receptor located on the top of the head. Many existing reptiles such as monitor lizards, some iguanas and the tuatara still have a pineal eye.
All reptiles that still have the pineal eye today are "cold blooded"; they have what's known as an ectotherm metabolism. Modern mammals - which of course have "warm blood" or an endotherm metabolism - don't have a pineal eye.
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Our group of researchers at the University of the Witwatersrand wondered whether being able to pinpoint when pre-mammalian species lost their pineal eye might unlock the secret of when "warm bloodedness" become a mammalian hallmark. That's what drove an ambitious study using fossil remains from South Africa's Karoo region.
We were proved right: our research revealed that mammalian ancestors likely shifted from "cold" to "warm" blood 246 million years ago. This was 10 million years before the first dinosaur even appeared.
Why have a third eye?
As with a regular eye, the pineal eye is made up of a cornea, a lens and a retina. Our paired eyes and the reptilian pineal eye are also very similar in terms of embryological development and the genes expressed during this. The pineal eye differs from a regular eye, though, in that it's usually covered by a thick and large scale and can differentiate between light and dark only.
Our regular eyes can also see variations between light and dark, day and night - so what's the point of having an organ as redundant as the pineal eye? Research shows that in reptiles the pineal eye acts as a calendar. It can see days getting longer and nights getting shorter, and the reverse, and so tells the brain how seasons are changing. As a consequence, it monitors most life cycles such as sleep and reproduction rhythms.
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Arturo de Frias Marques (Own work) via Wikimedia Commons , CC BY
Surgical experiments on lizards have also shown that removing the pineal eye affects their capacity to regulate their body temperature, a process called thermoregulation.
This is fascinating since our pre-mammalian ancestors did have a pineal eye and lost it in the course of their evolution toward a more mammalian condition. This suggested that by following the reduction and disappearance of the pineal eye through millions of years, we might be able to point out the time when our ancestors became "warm blooded".
A gateway to ancient metabolism
The pineal eye's evolution is easy to study. It has an unmistakable bony correlate, the pineal foramen. This is a tube that pierces the skull roof for the pineal eye and nerve.
Most of our ancestors, the pre-mammalian therapsids, had such a foramen on the top of their heads, as can be seen in their fossilised skulls, and thus had a pineal eye. It's reasonable to assume that this organ fulfilled a similar role in thermoregulation as it does in today's reptiles.
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By checking for the pineal foramen in fossils, we reasoned, it would be possible to trace back the transition from a "reptile-like" to a "mammal-like" metabolism in the lineage that eventually led to mammals.
So our team of palaeontologists and neurologists checked for the pineal foramen in more than 600 skulls. These were all found in the Karoo's incredibly rich fossil-bearing deposits and dated back to between 300 million and 200 million years ago.
That's an important time period, since South Africa was situated close to the South Pole at that time thanks to continental drift. The climate, then, was much colder and drier, and the contrast between the country's seasons was greater than today. This implies that species with "cold blood" must have had a pineal eye to help them regulate their body temperature.
To find a species that lived under such harsh conditions without a pineal foramen would strongly suggest that this species was "warm blooded" and that a pineal eye was no longer required to survive.
An evolutionary step forward
We found that the pineal foramen was present in most pre-mammalian therapsids before 260 million years ago. After this the feature was increasingly absent. This suggests the pineal eye became dispensable and wasn't needed for survival any more.
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The increasing loss of the pineal foramen occurred in two lineages. One of these, the cynodonts, led to mammals. In their case, the pineal foramen disappeared entirely 246 million years ago. It's then, we believe, that the transition from "cold blood" to "warm blood" was achieved.
More work needs to be done to test this evolutionary scenario, but if it proves true it would mean that mammals had likely already evolved one of the key adaptations that enabled them to survive for more than 200 million years through the reign and extinction of dinosaurs and two mass extinctions to the present day.
Ayahuasca has been used for spiritual and therapeutic purposes by indigenous healers in Brazil's northwestern Acre state for centuries. Luna Parracho/Reuters
Ayahuasca goes by many names: Daime, Vegetal, Hoasca, Kamarampi, Huni ... whatever you call it, this plant-based psychoactive decoction, which has been used by indigenous Amazonians for centuries to contact the spiritual world, has suddenly burst into global consciousness.
As a recent New Yorker article put it, ayahuasca is "the drug of choice for the age of kale".
The article, which positioned ayahuasca as a hipster trend in a tone of mockery mixed with mystification, nevertheless belies the growing interest of Western scientists and rich urbanites in its medicinal and therapeutic potential, which include antidepressant, anti-anxiety and anti-addiction elements.
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Does the science support the hype? As part of a small cohort of Brazilian scientists undertaking the world's first clinical trials on ayahuasca and treatment-resistant major depressive disorder, I'm here to say: maybe, but it's too soon to tell.
Every couple of weeks, Everson do Santos relives the worst day of his life. Check out my latest on ayahuasca@VICE https://t.co/TWtT59QYyw Marina Lopes (@ByMarinaLopes) October 28, 2016
Sacred plant, sacred medicine
First, some background, which is key to understanding how ayahuasca is perceived as both a sacred plant and medicine.
This idea is shared by indigenous groups, vegetalistas (healers that use plants to treat disease), and Brazilian religions such as the Santo Daime and the Uniao do Vegetal, which blend Catholic, indigenous, and Afro-Brazilian beliefs.
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In the indigenous context, ayahuasca is used to contact the supernatural world, the realm of the jungle spirits, who are called on to bring peace, happiness, and good health - or harm and disease.
During ayahuasca ceremonies, shamans invoke specific spirits either to heal their patients, or to harm their enemies. For them, ayahuasca is a powerful and dangerous plant used with great caution, and only by individuals who've undergone a prolonged initiation process that usually involves abstaining from sex and certain foods, along with periods of isolation in the jungle.
Ayahuasca is also used therapeutically by the rural, poor and mestizo, or mixed-race, populations of Amazonian nations, including Colombia, Peru, Brazil, and Ecuador, who have limited access to hospitals and physicians but extensive training in ayahuasca.
Rafael Guimaraes dos Santos, Author provided
The spiritual is medical
The effects of ayahuasca start 30 to 40 minutes after oral intake, with a peak occurring one to two hours later. Most people describe a pleasant (although not always easy) experience, which may include changes in perception (mostly visual), deep introspection, revival of seemingly forgotten autobiographical memories, and mood boost. The trip lasts four to six hours.
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A limited number of studies have suggested that those psychoactive effects could play a therapeutic role for humans.
Ayahuasca is made by combining the leaves of Psychotria viridis or Diplopterys cabrerana (which contain the hallucinogen DMT), with the jungle vine Banisteriopsis caapi, which is rich in a group of alkaloids called beta-carbolines (harmine, tetrahydroharmine, and harmaline).
Studies in animals, case reports and observational studies of long-term users suggest that ayahuasca and its alkaloids may have anti-anxiety, antidepressant, and anti-addictive properties.
Observational studies have also indicated that long-term members of Brazilian ayahuasca religions have apparently recovered from depression, anxiety, and drug dependence (especially alcohol and cocaine).
Recent preliminary, open-label studies, or non placebo-controlled trials, on patients diagnosed with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder have been promising.
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These studies, led by Jaime Hallak from the University of Sao Paulo medical school in Ribeirao Preto, where I work, and by Draulio de Araujo, from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, in Natal, showed that a single ayahuasca dose was associated with significant, fast-acting, and enduring antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects.
These positive results started in the first hours after ayahuasca intake and remained significant 21 days later.
Out of the jungle, into the cities
In the early 20th century, during the exploration of natural rubber, a small number of religious organisations that centred their sacred rituals on ayahuasca as a sacrament began to emerge in the Brazilian state of Acre. These groups blended Catholic beliefs with Amazonian shamanism, European esoteric philosophies, and Afro-Brazilian tradition.
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, these religions organisations began to expand from the North of Brazil to other Brazilian capitals. In the early 1990s, some - in particular the Uniao do Vegetal and Santo Daime - started to create groups in Europe and in the US. Today they are among the main forces collaborating to extend ayahuasca's use beyond the Amazon.
In recent years, healers called vegetalistas or maestros ("those who know") have started to practice rituals in big cities, including Bogota, New York, and other urban centres. In these places, their patients are more likely to be wealthy white people seeking healing from anxiety, mood disorders, drug dependence and other mental health issues.
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As more Westerners come to South American countries for healing ayahuasca trips and more healers travel to the US and Europe to perform their rituals, the idea that ayahuasca has powerful therapeutic potential has spread worldwide.
Rafael Guimaraes dos Santos, Author provided
Indeed, in the aforementioned New Yorker article, one American researcher is quoted as saying that "on any given night in Manhattan, there are a hundred ayahuasca 'circles' going on."
This interest is also illustrated by a recent conference held in Acre and organised by the International Center for Ethnobotanical Education, Research & Service, which put together more than 700 participants from around the word, including dozens of indigenous participants.
In the past year or so, many other major international news outlets have covered ayahausca, including the New York Times, Vice and Nature. Their pieces tend to portray the plant as a potential "cure" for addiction and depression.
Too early to tell
Media hype and promising medical results aside, I must highlight critical limitations of the few studies that have inspired this enthusiasm for ayahuasca.
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Therefore, it is not currently possible to conclude that the observed effects were really caused by ayahuasca, or that ayahuasca can "cure" depression.
My Brazilian colleagues, supervisors and I are now trying to replicate these observations in the lab with improved methodology. A bigger study assessing the antidepressant potentials of ayahuasca with 80 patients, using a double-blind, placebo-controlled design, is currently underway. And we at the Ribeirao Preto Medical School are in the middle of a research project on the impacts of ayahuasca treatment on socially anxious individuals.
Ayahuasca has captured the imagination of scientists and hipsters alike. By helping us find the sacred within us, its psychoactive power seems to hold therapeutic potential as an alternative way to address common disorders that modern medicine has thus far found difficult to treat.
So is this sacred Amazonian medicine a potential treatment for everything from anxiety disorders to drug dependence, as both healers and patients avow? We'll have to wait and see what the science says.
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Toby Melville/Reuters
The election of Donald Trump has come as a powerful shock to leaders and citizens across Europe. Across the continent, many Europeans watched his rise first with dismay and then with growing alarm, but gave little prospect to him actually defeating former secretary of state Hillary Clinton.
But with Trump now set to enter the Oval Office in January to become America's 45th president, European leaders must start thinking about how they can work with him and his administration for at least the next four, and possibly the next eight, years.
This will not be easy for leaders such as French President Francois Hollande, who said the president-elect "makes you want to retch", or Matteo Renzi, who made no secret of his support for Trump's rival.
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Of course, how Europe responds depends on the policies Trump pursues once in office. Will he drop the bluster and bravado that marked his campaign, and moderate some of his campaign statements, such as calling the NATO alliance "obsolete", suggesting he might formally recognise Russian sovereignty over Crimea, and calling the British vote in June to exit the European Union "a good thing"?
Or will his credo of "America First" and his rejection of "globalism" lead to the steady erosion of America's commitment to global order and stability?
European leaders face a difficult, even agonising, decision. Trump is a man many openly scorn and revile. But a functional relationship with the United States - including a United States that is led by Trump - is a matter of necessity rather than choice for Europe.
Standing up to Trump
European leaders will make clear, as German Chancellor Angela Merkel did in her letter congratulating the president-elect, that future cooperation with the United States will be based on a shared commitment to liberal-democratic values.
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These include, as Merkel's letter stated:
Democracy, freedom, as well as respect for the rule of law and the dignity of each and every person regardless of their origin, skin colour, creed, gender, sexual orientation, or political views.
These remain the foundational principles on which the Atlantic Alliance is based, and the erosion of these values would only serve to embolden authoritarian strongmen such as Russian President Vladimir Putin or Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Axel Schmidt/Reuters
European leaders should remind Trump, and the officials he appoints to senior positions, of US obligations to European security. There will be severe and possibly irreparable damage if the United States defaulted on its commitments.
Every US president since Harry S Truman has interpreted the NATO Treaty's mutual defence clause as irrevocable, and establishing a clear legal and moral obligation on the United States to come to the aid of an ally under attack.
With a newly aggressive and revanchist Russia, this commitment is more important today than at any point since the end of the Cold War.
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Paying a fair share
Trump will not be the first US president to complain that America's NATO allies in Europe are not carrying their fair share of the security burden. Every US president since Eisenhower, in fact, has called on European countries to do more to provide for their own defence.
Kacper Pempel/Reuters
Among NATO's European allies, only Greece, the United Kingdom, Estonia, and Poland currently meet the alliance's target of spending at least 2% of GDP on defence.
While they should refuse to submit to any potential White House attempts at blackmail, it is reasonable to expect Europeans to contribute more for their own security. European leaders may be able to mute some of Trump's criticisms of allies free-riding on American largesse by committing to increase defence spending and deployments of equipment and personnel within the context of NATO operations and missions.
Europe's leverage
Once Trump enters office he will probably come to realise and appreciate how much he needs the cooperation of other countries to achieve his foreign policy goals and objectives.
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Despite its own troubles - such as the ongoing euro calamity, the refugee crisis, and negotiating Britain's exit from the EU - Europe remains the indispensable partner for the United States on global economic and security issues. In some areas, such as counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, and maintaining the arms embargo against China, European cooperation remains crucial. This creates leverage for Europe, and the possibility of influencing US attitudes in these domains.
European leaders should anticipate transatlantic relations under Trump to be more transactional than they have been under previous administrations. As Jeremy Shapiro of the European Council on Foreign Relations has said, appeals based on "the old formula of solidarity, common interests, and shared values" are not just likely to be ineffective, but are likely to be seen by Trump as "negotiating weakness".
Trump will seek the help of European partners when he perceives that doing so is in his interest, but unlike almost all of his predecessors since the end of World War II, he will not reflexively turn to the Atlantic Alliance to address the most important global challenges.
Working around the commander-in-chief
European leaders must keep in mind that while Trump will have tremendous influence over the future direction of US foreign policy, he will be just one person in a vast national security apparatus.
Not everyone in his administration will share his views on NATO's strategic irrelevance, his eagerness to accommodate Russia, or his enthusiasm over Britain's exit from the EU.
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They will soon be calling me MR. BREXIT! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 18, 2016
Top Republican officials condemned his statement that he might not automatically come to the aid of a NATO ally under attack, for example, and by very wide margins the American public continues to see NATO as being good for the United States.
Apart from a suspicion of trade agreements and a pledge to put America "first", it does not appear that Trump holds many firm foreign policy convictions. Other members of his administration may be able to shape his thinking so that it aligns more closely with the long-standing, bipartisan foreign policy consensus in the United States, especially when it comes to NATO.
Tough road ahead
None of the above will be easy for European leaders, and there is no guarantee of success.
Trump has given no indication that he understands or appreciates the value of the transatlantic alliance, of the benefits of a strong and united Europe, or the deep and long-standing partnerships the United States has established with individual European countries over many decades.
European leaders must decide on which issues they can and must compromise with the Trump administration, such as raising military spending and contributing more to their own defence, and on which issues they must stand firm, such as their unequivocal commitment to liberal-democratic values and to the sanctity of the NATO alliance.
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The future of the West may depend on it.
On December 20, 1890, an editorial was published in South Dakota's Saturday Pioneer on the occasion of the death of Sitting Bull at the hands of Standing Rock reservation police:
"The proud spirit of the original owners of these vast prairies inherited through centuries of fierce and bloody wars for their possession, lingered last in the bosom of Sitting Bull. With his fall the nobility of the Redskin is extinguished, and what few are left are a pack of whining curs who lick the hand that smites them. The Whites, by law of conquest, by justice of civilization, are masters of the American continent, and the best safety of the frontier settlements will be secured by the total annihilation of the few remaining Indians. Why not annihilation? Their glory has fled, their spirit broken, their manhood effaced; better that they die than live the miserable wretches that they are."
That call for genocide was written by a newspaper editor named L. Frank Baum, who would later go on to write a book titled The Wonderful World of Oz.
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Nine days after the editorial was published, Baum nearly got his wish.
After Sitting Bull's death, his tribe fled, fearing for their lives. They were led by Sitting Bull's half-brother, Chief Spotted Elk, aka "Big Foot." The aging chief was dying from pneumonia in the brutal winter of 1890. His people were starving in the bitter cold. The buffalo, the tribe's primary food source, had been hunted to near extinction for sport by the whites. The food rations promised to them by the government as part of the 1877 "Sell or Starve" act had been denied.
The Sioux diaspora was intercepted by the army on December 28 and led to Wounded Knee Creek. The following morning, as soldiers collected rifles from the few remaining armed Sioux warriors, one of the tribesmen, "Black Coyote," who was deaf, did not understand the instructions. He struggled with the soldiers. A shot was fired.
The soldiers opened fire on the tribe with rifles and Hotchkiss gun light artillery. In 1890, the Hotchkiss gun was a weapon of mass destruction. The compact breach-loaded canon was capable of firing up to 50 grapeshot canisters per minute, shredding flesh and shattering bones with a spray of 1/2-inch lead balls shrieking through the air at 1,300 feet per second.
In minutes, 300 Sioux men, women and children lay dead or dying on the frozen prairie. Before the bodies of the victims could be recovered for burial in a mass grave, a blizzard washed over the site. When the storm retreated, it revealed the grizzly remains of the massacre. Those tribespeople who had not died immediately from their wounds were frozen into icy contortions. Chief Spotted Elk's corpse was found on its back with frozen arms reaching up into the air. His head was elevated, as though he was attempting to rise from a fall at the moment he died.
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25 Army soldiers received the Medal of Honor for acts of valor for their roles in the massacre.
The Sioux did not live and die on Standing Rock reservation by choice. Standing Rock was the bitter end of a long road of broken treaties with the U.S. government that had repeatedly kicked Native Americans out of places whites found valuable and onto places of increasing scarcity. In 1851, the Fort Laramie treaty granted the Sioux thousands of square miles that included South Dakota's Black Hills. After the Black Hills Expedition led by Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer confirmed the existence of gold in them thar hills in 1874, whites swarmed onto Sioux land. Skirmishes ensued. Custer himself was eventually killed in the Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876.
Congress, outraged over the Sioux's temerity to defend their land from foreign invaders, passed the "Sell or Starve" act of 1877, forcing the Sioux off their verdant land in the Black Hills and onto Standing Rock - a place guaranteed to be worthless to human beings of any color - at least until the year 2016.
George Hearst set up his Homestake Mine, eventually extracting 40 million troy ounces of gold out of the Black Hills, with a current valuation of $53 billion. Gutzon Borglum would later carve the likenesses of four white American presidents into the sides of one of the Sioux hills.
In 1980, the U.S. Supreme Court found that the 1877 Act that resulted in the seizure of the Black Hills was a violation of the Fifth Amendment. The court awarded the Sioux Nation $106 million - 2/10ths of 1% of the value of the gold ore that was taken out of Hearst's mine alone.
The Sioux Nation refused the award. They want their land back.
In 2016, the Dakota Access Pipeline is being built on the very same land that the Supreme Court ruled was illegally taken from the Sioux in 1877.
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Fear of murderous immigrant invaders drove many voters' decisions at the ballot box this election year. When looking at the potential dangers to life and property posed by immigrants through Native American eyes, it's much easier to appreciate white people's fears about outsiders.
Is America in eclipse? After a strange Veterans Day weekend, it is decidedly unclear.
As I feared for more than a year, a deeply troubled and profoundly perturbed America has fallen through the looking glass into Trumplandia. How different will America be under President Donald Trump? It may be quite a lot, all the way into the fascism that Trump so obviously flirted with throughout his campaign. Or it may be not so much, since Trump seems motivated more by an ethic of success than any coherent ideology.
And then there is his erratic nature to consider. As I wrote repeatedly during the campaign, it was Trump's own all too frequently intemperate style that kept him from what could have been a truly substantial victory over a very vulnerable Hillary Clinton. That's why I rated the race as up in the air in my final pre-election column, just as I did all the times when Hillary seemed to have a very large lead. The opportunity for a Trump victory was always obvious; what was not at all obvious was whether he would ever settle down and seize it.
He did in the end, barely, putting two weeks of stable campaign messaging together at the last even as the result ended up more than a little, well, up in the air. A big breakthrough in the Democrats' vulnerable underbelly of "free" trade policy leading to a windfall of industrial states and a clear edge in the Electoral College. Coupled with a loss to Hillary in the national popular vote. Trump had a clear popular vote lead before California's votes came in. With the world's fifth largest economy, beacon of the anti-climate change fight Trump has ludicrously claimed is a Chinese hoax, going against Trump by nearly 2 to 1, Trump is now more than 600,000 votes behind. The California Democratic edge for Clinton is over 2.7 million votes now and that margin will increase as millions of late ballots are processed.
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President Barack Obama delivered his final Veterans Day address at Arlington National Cemetery Friday, following a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Earlier he hosted a breakfast for veterans and their families in the State Dining Room of the White House. President-elect Donald Trump attended no Veterans Day events, though he did send out a Tweet.
But, in the end, so what? (Other than indicating that Trump has a limited mandate and needs to get more in line with Californian views if he hopes for a majoritarian approach.) Trump did what he needed to do within the present rules to win an impressive, "shocking," victory. That his mandate is most uncertain if not at the vanishing point does not detract from the fact that he did what nearly the entire media and political class claimed over and over again was impossible.
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All-but-certain statistical models, the inevitable demographics of "the Obama coalition," the "Blue Wall" in the Electoral College. Poof! All imploded in billowing clouds of dust and debris, like so many old casinos destroyed for the new.
This Veterans Day weekend certainly made for an odd harbinger of the new-build Trump casino for America's future.
The president-elect, who consistently evaded military service in his youth, during a war he strongly supported, gave remarkably short shrift to the veterans he claims to hold in such high regard. Trump, rather amazingly, attended no Veterans Day events and celebrated, as it were, with a mere Tweet of less than 20 words.
I'd be very offended, but for the fact that Trump is undoubtedly scrambling, hunkered down out of public view because he is beset by a wave of protests around the nation, including at his own Manhattan digs, and is hurriedly trying to jump-start a transition process hamstrung by having been headed by a freshly disgraced New Jersey Governor Chris Christie. I get it. He's still a largely do-it-yourself guy and he has never ever been even remotely near a situation like this.
Nevertheless, though he did and said absolutely nothing of substance with regard to Veterans Day over the long Veterans Day weekend, unlike President Barack Obama, who again impressed with his dignity and thoughtfulness for the occasion, some things are already clear with regard to how Trump will deploy the precious and vulnerable resource known as the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.
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Foremost of these is that the rapidly emerging new cold war with Russia is almost certainly cancelled.
Trump may respect and admire Russia for the wrong reasons (i.e., "Putin is cool!") rather than the right reasons (Russia is a historically great nation with some core interests worthy of our deep respect), but the bottom line is the same.
The reality is that Hillary Clinton, while a clearly steadier hand overall, has, with her husband, repeatedly stoked what became a very bad and deeply foolish feud with Russia since the early 1990s. That is when the Clintons began pursuing the expansion of NATO up to the borders of post-Soviet Russia, a nation nearly decapitated by historic invasions. As a result, the Russians prefer a sort of neutral zone on their borders. This became obvious to me while trying to help the sort of Russian democratic reformers who were ultimately crushed by their putative ally Vladimir Putin. No one of consequence in Russia could support the Clintons' fateful NATO expansion.
I've written at length about this, and the problems with Hillary's central role in the doomed Russia "re-set" policy a number of times, including last July.
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The theme music for 'Air Force One' has been a staple of Trump appearances and was the intro music for the president-elect when he made his very late night presidential victory speech. The action thriller, about a terrorism-fighting president whose plane is hijacked by ex-Russian special forces troopers, is one of Trump's very favorites, and deserves its own piece discussing it in that context. Ironically, the theme, by the late great Jerry Goldsmith, my favorite film composer, was also a favorite of President Bill Clinton. For a time in the '90s, it was ubiquitous in Democratic campaigns and conventions.
The idea that Russian intelligence would intervene to delegitimize the Clintons here and around the world was anything but a surprise. In the Russian view, if ever acknowledged, of course, it would simply be payback for Clinton-inspired U.S. meddling in Russia and its neighbors, not the least of which was the spectacle of Hillary's former State Department spokesperson showing up in Kiev, capital of Ukraine, to personally egg on regime change protesters. That Ukraine's Russia-friendly, democratically-elected president was overthrown at the height of Putin's painstakingly planned Sochi Winter Olympics was, as I pointed out at the time, the height of dangerously foolish bear-baiting.
In any event, another new development is that Hillary's long-planned greatly heightened intervention in the Syrian civil war, complete with a no-fly zone that would almost certainly lead to war, is clearly off the table. The Syrian rebels, who can't win, can end the humanitarian crisis of Aleppo by declaring it an "open city" as MacArthur did with Manila in World War II.
Still, Trump needs to make sure Putin doesn't get too bold. The Baltic states are no threat to Russia, especially without big NATO forces there, so Putin needs to commit to keeping hands off. And long-range Russian bomber patrols near our bases in the Pacific are completely unacceptable. Each such flight should be intercepted early on and given very close-range U.S. fighter escort until they are ended altogether.
What else in national security is clear now with the advent of Trump? We will know that when the president-elect makes his top national security picks. The candidates for those spots suggest very different directions when it comes to historic alliances, burden-sharing, proliferation, and overall orientation on the spectrum of interventionism/non-interventionism.
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After all, pick one set of Trump quotes and he is a bombastic man of peace. Pick another set, and he is an hysteric man of war.
The balance, like all but the very end of the campaign just past, seems up in the air.
Yet a couple of other things are already clear.
Trump's denial of climate change, which is surprising in that he is obviously a bright guy, an Ivy Leaguer from New York who once backed my candidate, Gary Hart, is not only bad for the future habitability of this planet, it is also bad from the standpoint of likely future conflicts.
As the DoD noted when it released a very enlightening report on the global security threat of climate change: "Rising global temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, climbing sea levels, and more extreme weather events will intensify the challenges of global instability, hunger, poverty, and conflict."
One of the very first people to turn me on to the climate change issue, back in the '70s, was a close associate and friend of my original faculty advisor, dean of naval historians E.B. Potter. Admiral Noel Gayler, the first triple Navy Cross-winner, who went on to become CINCPAC and the director of the National Security Agency, saw nuclear weapons and climate change as the greatest across-the-board threats to world peace and the habitability of the planet. Any consideration of geography and resources makes the security challenge of climate change all too clear. Too bad the fighter ace admiral, a favorite of Nimitz and Halsey, is no longer around to set the president-elect straight on a few things.
It is also clear that Trump has an opportunity which could gain him great credibility with a still largely suspicious America. He should convene a commission to assess the effectiveness and wisdom of our still largely secret "Long War" operations.
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While many are aware that there is simply too much we do not know about the secret drone wars being carried out in our name, I don't think many are aware of how our arms sales have accelerated under the Obama administration.
The Obama administration has approved nearly $280 billion in global arms sales, more than twice the total rung up by the Bush/Cheney administration. Yes, this is counter-intuitive. That's why you don't know about it.
By far the most in arms deals, nearly half the total, have gone to Saudi Arabia. Which Hillary Clinton herself identified in leaked e-mails as a prime funder of Isis. So what exactly are we accomplishing by covertly flooding a tinderbox world with arms?
Another of Jerry Goldsmith's great scores, 'Patton,' contains both stirring martial music and haunting material evoking the mists of history and the sense, as Oscar-winning screenwriter Francis Ford Coppola had it in the George C. Scott voice-over at the film's end, that "all glory is fleeting." Something for the president-elect to keep in mind.
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And back on drone strikes, while some enemies do need killing, it seems increasingly likely that a program originally justified as a way to prevent imminent attacks on Americans has become so undiscriminating that it creates more problems than it solves.
Trump claimed throughout the campaign, with some merit, that what we are doing isn't working. So let's move beyond the rhetoric and determine the reality.
There is a chance that Trump will turn out to be better than I have long feared. He clearly represents something more than mere hatred, namely a grave discontent with a failing and frequently self-dealing establishment and concern that events are spinning away from the interests of most people. That was clear to me when I predicted in the summer 2015 that he would soon fall after fatefully dissing John McCain as not a true war hero. I thought that super-rich draft dodger vs. famous war hero would lead to disaster. But no. Trump got away with it. So I quickly realized, much to my chagrin, that Trump was on to something very powerful and had a real shot at the White House.
Yet there is also a large chance that Trump is very bad news. Much of what he has said is appalling and disastrous. And, following Brexit, it may be a harbinger of the further decline of Western civilization.
I'm sure that will be on the minds of participants at a mini-summit at the end of the week in Berlin. There President Barack Obama, on a week-plus international trip, will huddle with the heads of Germany, France, Spain, Italy, and Great Britain. They have much to discuss.
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If you have money tucked away in a mutual fund or a retirement account, you have the power to invest in the world's transition to clean energy. It's rather important that you do. With the leadership of the federal government in question again, grassroots action is more critical than ever.
All you have to do is take your money out of funds whose portfolios include companies that produce fossil fuels or burn a lot of them (coal-fired utilities, for example). There is a problem, however. Some funds that look clean on the surface have fossil fuels tucked within them.
Now there's a way to flush them all out.
By way of background, more than 50,000 people worldwide with assets of more than $5 billion have pledged to pull fossil fuels our of their portfolios and redirect the funds into the clean energy economy. Some are divesting for moral reasons and others because they know that keeping their money in fossil energy is very risky at a time that science says we should leave most coal, oil and natural gas in the ground. The 50,000 individuals have been joined by more than 600 institutions - faith groups, foundations, governments, colleges, pension funds, universities and others -- with assets of more than $3.4 trillion.
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When the divested funds are reinvested in clean energy, they contribute to the global movement to exit the carbon era. Science tells us we should all be rushing to the exit doors. But divesting from carbon is only the first step in helping to decarbonize the economy. Shifting the United States and the rest of the world to clean energy requires capital.
According to Moody's, one of the world's leading credit-rating agencies, the commitment by the United States and more than 190 other countries to reduce their carbon pollution will "reshape the global financial landscape in terms of investment flows into clean energy". That flow needs to become a flood. Moody's estimates that as much as $114 trillion in finance will be needed over the next 12 years for the clean energy transition.
Where will all that capital come from? Governments, large investment funds, venture capitalists, risk investors and other public and private sources will contribute. But individual investors have to participate, too.
That brings us back to the carbon that may be hiding in your mutual fund or 401(k). One of the pioneers in the divest/reinvest movement is the nonprofit foundation As You Sow, which works with shareholders to improve corporate accountability. It has developed a tool that finds the carbon in thousands of the most common mutual funds and retirement plans. It does the detective work instantly and cost-free with up-to-date data.
Using 401(k) retirement plans as an example, As You Sow's explains "those funds can invest in a wide array of securities, and it's not always easy for investors to investigate what's inside the funds they own. You can spend hours poring over mutual fund prospectuses, and still not fully grasp everything your 401(k) is invested in. Your retirement money may be invested in economically and morally risky fossil fuel companies."
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Four score and seven years ago today, just over ten years before I was born, Kristallnacht (the night of broken glass) began. Nazi troops and sympathizers looted and burned 7,500 Jewish businesses and 267 synagogues. Nearly 100 Jews were killed and at least 25,000 were arrested. The world found out about this incident on the radio. It would be nearly nine years before Hitler was defeated and World War Two ended. How ironic that the 45th President of the United States whose last video contained blatant anti-Semitism was elected on the anniversary of this Nazi atrocity.
Twenty-five years after Kristallnacht, the earliest memory I have of being shocked into despair occurred while watching TV. It was the news broadcast by Walter Cronkite who announced the assassination of President John F. Kennedy; two days later, just fourteen years old and in military school, I vividly recall watching Dallas policemen leading accused gunman Lee Harvey Oswald from his jail cell through a parking lot; suddenly, a man lurched forward and shot him in the chest. It was broadcast live on TV. Witnessing a live murder defines trauma for any teenager and I can easily elicit this memory.
For me, Kennedy's assassination and Oswald's subsequent murder was the beginning of a slow eradication of my trust in government. Few people believed the Warren Commission's Report that sought to assure a doubting nation that it was a deranged, lone gunman that caused JFK's death; Jack Ruby would later die in jail before more could be revealed about Oswald or other possible connections.
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As Lyndon B. Johnson took the oath of office aboard Air Force One that afternoon in 1963, citizens around the world watched in disbelief, racked with grief and sorrow after the unthinkable had become a reality. The photo of Johnson -- one hand raised and the other on the bible, with the late President's widow by his side -- remain etched in the brain of many of my generation. Johnson would oversee the brutal war in Viet Nam that would eventually take 64,000 American lives and account for as many as 1,300,000 deaths of civilians and allied forces.
In the years that followed, while Civil Rights legislation and the Voting Rights Act brought placatory change domestically, Johnson continued his predecessor's ruthless campaign of carpet bombing an enemy 8,000 miles away, dropping napalm and Agent Orange on a country few people could even locate on a world map. The war machine was in full force and Johnson was its commander-in-chief.
After his first term, Johnson suffered a stinging primary defeat by anti-war candidate Eugene McCarthy in the New Hampshire primary of 1968. Republican Richard Nixon had just announced his candidacy six weeks earlier. Johnson's loss left an opening for Vice President Hubert Humphrey and JFK's brother, former Attorney General Robert Kennedy; both stepped into the race only four days after McCarthy's surprise win. On that same day, although it would not be made public for more than a year, US ground troops massacred 500 infants and elderly Vietnamese in Mai Lai.
Two weeks later, Martin Luther King, Jr. led a march in Memphis, Tennessee telling striking sanitation workers "We've got to give ourselves to this struggle until the end -- nothing would be more tragic than to stop at this point in Memphis. We've got to see it through". When police broke up the demonstration, one young boy was killed, 60 were injured and 150 marchers were arrested.
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Three days later, on the last day of March 1968, Johnson announced his decision not to seek reelection and withdrew from the race for the Democratic nomination. Each of these events, from the New Hampshire Primary to the march in Memphis, to LBJ's withdrawal from the race, comprised a constant stream of news that would change the political landscape ahead. For anti-war activists, there was some renewed optimism when Johnson left the race, but nothing would compare with what transpired just five days later.
On April 4th, after meeting with local leaders in Memphis, Martin Luther King, Jr. died an hour after being shot with a single bullet fired by a lone assassin. Robert Kennedy, upon hearing the news just before delivering a speech in Indianapolis, urged his audience "to tame the savageness of man and make gentle the life of this world." Despite his appeal for calm, rioting broke out in Newark, Baltimore, Chicago, Boston, Washington, D.C., Detroit, Kansas City, and others communities across the country following King's assassination. A total of 46 people were killed across the country. I spent a night in jail in Columbus, Ohio after being arrested on the campus of Ohio State while working with a first aid group to help injured protesters.
Injustice at home was the counterpoint to the war effort abroad. By mid-April, 550,000 US troops were on the ground in Viet Nam, and in the months that followed, protesters on college campuses occupied buildings demanding an end to the war. Meanwhile, in mid-May, 2,500 people occupied an encampment called Resurrection City on the Mall in Washington, D.C. as a protest for living wages and full employment.
Then, less than two months after Martin Luther King was killed, on the night of June 4th and the California Primary, Robert Kennedy was shot and killed as he left the Ambassador Hotel in San Francisco. Again, live footage seared our brains as millions watched Kennedy's lifeless gaze when he fell to the ground. Weeks later, on June 24th, police raided and demolished Resurrection City, arresting all 124 of its occupants. TV news carried the story with vivid video coverage.
August of 1968 witnessed the Republicans nominating Richard Nixon over Californian Ronald Reagan; the Democrats would choose Vice President Hubert Humphrey as their candidate while 10,000 protestors and supporters of George McGovern outside the convention took to the streets. Chicago police arrested 175 marchers beating some of them unconscious; 100 filled hospital emergency rooms while those who remained chanted "the whole world is watching!" The entire protest was broadcast live on television.
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Forty days later, segregationist and former Alabama Governor George Wallace, who had entered the Presidential race as an independent candidate, named retired Air Force Chief of Staff Curtis E. LeMay as his running mate. When asked about the use of nuclear weapons, LeMay casually responded, "I think most military men think it's just another weapon in the arsenal.....there are many times when it would be most efficient to use nuclear weapons. I don't believe the world would end if we exploded a nuclear weapon."
To say that such a statement horrified millions would not be overstating the reaction; in the same way, the President-elect's comments about nuclear weapons have shocked us all. Incredibly, on Election Day in 1968, George Wallace, an avowed white supremacist received 13.5% of the popular vote - nearly 10,000,000 people favored his candidacy; Hubert Humphrey received only 500,000 votes less than Nixon, just .7% short of victory. This, too, was a shocking defeat for Democrats 48 years ago and a sobering recognition of the divisions of the populace.
The laws of physics tell us that at the extreme, everything changes into its opposite. An expanding balloon will eventually burst and contract; when our intestines fill, they will eventually empty. Only a short time ago, the Democratic Party seemed destined for unity while Republicans spoke of total disarray and chaos. How quickly things have reversed.
Those same laws remind us once again that what has a beginning, has an end. Decades of economic disparity and indifference in this year's election have caused a shrinking minority and angry, disenfranchised constituency to bring a halt to the deadlock. For better or worse, a businessman outside the political system convinced enough of them that he alone could bring the change they wanted. Such is the nature of the political system of our democracy.
Blame might move emotions and win elections, but it's not a verb I choose to employ as I seek to regain my footing after this election cycle. Neither third party candidates nor media attention can be blamed for this result. By its very nature, shock can sneak up on you but some people correctly predicted the outcome. As the numbness fades, it often leads to despair. This is a place baby boomers have been before - another "setback" the Democratic candidate spoke of in her eloquent concession speech.
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When Richard Nixon ran for a second term in 1972 against George McGovern, I truly believed the South Dakota Senator had a reasonable chance. Nixon won in a landslide, carrying 49 of 50 states and 18,000,000 more votes than his opponent - the widest margin of any election in history. I was so disenchanted that I left the country disillusioned and angry. Nixon resigned in disgrace less than two years later; his vice president, Spiro Agnew, convicted on charges of bribery, tax evasion, and money laundering, resigned ten months before him.
In this election, you may not have even noticed that three out of the four state referendums tightening guns laws passed. All of the sudden, in Nevada, California, and Washington, children and families can begin to feel just a little bit safer because of these victories. Hawaii elected the first and only Asian American woman senator, Mazie Hirono. Three other states put new women in office as well. Pramila Jayapal becomes the first Indian-American woman elected to Congress representing her district in Washington State. And those are just a few of the fortunate blessings of this election.
The natural progression of emotions, when grief, fear and anger overwhelm, is a profound numbness that can stupefy the best among us. Disbelief precedes depression as a feeling of hopelessness permeates our chest. Shoulders heavy, the burden of reality can seem too much to bear as we sit exhausted and bereft.
But then there is this thing called resilience, not succumbing to the negativity but rebounding with the same optimism, hope, and determination that was so evident only days before. Fear, anger, and grief are all natural emotions, and they all play tug-of-war with love. Make no mistake: our capacity to rebound is a measure of our very own love of life itself. There is work to be done, and there is more time to play as well.
The unknown is that place in which all human beings actually reside. While being groundless and lost, we can at the same time leave behind our chattering mind and celebrate our next breath with a smile in the presence of compassion for ourselves and others.
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One final principle of physics comes to mind that concerns what we can see and what we cannot. Basically, it states that what has a front has a back; it goes on to remind us that the bigger the front, the bigger the back. For all the horror and negativity that media thrives on that gets piped through the airwaves and internet, there is an equal amount of love and beauty to be shared -- things we know in our heart are the most important and newsworthy.
Maybe - just maybe - the true gift of this election will strengthen the bonds of our friendships and love of family, the equanimity we recognize in others we admire, and the possibility that what we cannot see is as big as what has emerged in front of us. Moving beyond those first three natural emotions - fear, anger, and grief - you will find love abiding in the heart. I invite you to go there with me, breathe from that place, and let's get back to work.
Don't let anyone distort the facts: protesting Donald Trump is completely safe. While conservative media may want you to believe that getting out on the street to make your voice heard is dangerous, it's not. These peaceful protests are designed to unite a divided country on issues like race, sexuality, and equal rights.
We're less than a week into President Trump's America and there's been an appalling surge in hate crimes. Even with the President-elect delivering a flaccid: "stop it," this is a major cause for concern. Newly spray painted swastikas adorn many windows in America, the Muslim community is under threat of tremendous violence and the Ku Klux Klan is thrilled. These are all great reasons to protest.
We're all living through this moment in time, and we're all absorbing this in a very particular way. The progressive politics of the last 8 years may have just come to a screeching halt. There are inherent victims (minorities) with a Trump Presidency and we need to stand with them.
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K-State students get to 'Hang with Tang' on Tuesday
Cat Zone
Insurer is accused of overcharging over two million policyholders
A week ago, Californias insurance commissioner asked one of the states major home insurers to reduce its homeowner insurance rates after judging them excessive. State Farm Insurance Company is being asked by California insurance commissioner Dave Jones to lower its rates by an average of 7%, which should result in $78.6 million in annual savings and over $100 million in refunds for policyholders.In a press release published November 7, Commissioner Jones said that State Farms rate increase of 6.9% for homeowner, rental, and condominium insurance rates in July 2015 was just too steep. Jones called for the insurer to lower its homeowner insurance rate by an average of 5.37%, its renter insurance rate by an average of 20.39%, and its condo insurance rate by an average of 13.81%.Jones said in his statement that protecting consumers from excessive rates is one of [his] highest priorities.State Farm had applied for the rate increases in December 2014, with an effective date of July 2015. Under a voter initiative called Californias Proposition 103, insurance rates that are deemed excessive, inadequate or unfairly discriminatory cannot stay in effect.A rate is determined to be excessive or otherwise based on the aggregate earned premium the rates are expected to produce, Jones explained.The insurance commissioner has tackled other pressing insurance matters in recent months. Last June, Jones asked the Department of Justice to block Aetnas proposed $37 billion acquisition of Humana, reasoning that it would increase costs for consumers and decrease quality of care. He also permitted Shasta Linen Supply to void its contract with Berkshire Hathaway s insurance unit after it was found that the insurer avoided a state law that required a review of workers compensation insurance rates.Californias Department of Insurance also secured a $200 million settlement from French company Artemis SA and others following allegations that they conspired to conceal a French government-owned banks unlawful ownership of the insolvent Executive Life Insurance Co.
Shell-shocked, emotionally distraught and displaced from their homes, the victims of Hurricane Matthew have clearly been through more than most of us dare to imagine. However, now their plight is being made all the worse by a series of scam artists bringing a bad name to the insurance industry.The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (FLOIR) has issued a statement to residents asking them to be cautious of repair deals that sound too good to be true, while also asking contractors and insurance professionals to show their credentials when dealing with victims so they know they are not being scammed.According to a report at CSMonitor.com, Florida is the first state to officially issue a statement regarding fraudulent and predatory businesses that are looking to profit from the financial and emotional stress hurricane victims are suffering from. The list includes insurance scammers who are attempting to capitalize on what are, already, sky high home insurance rates because of the area in which they live.The report notes that while many legitimate vendors are approaching policyholders in Florida and South Carolina, there are also many who are unqualified and are looking to solicit policyholders as clients. As such, residents in the area are being urged to check documentation carefully before taking any steps. If in doubt, residents can search through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website to cross-check companies with its list.Another key message for insurance professionals is to explain to their clients the different agreements that are available. Typically agreements should state whether the policyholder or the insurer is responsible for paying for a contractors work, of course something that is vital that residents clearly understand given that they may not be able to pay a vendor out of their own pocket.The FLOIR is also advising policyholders to consider public adjustors.
A Pennsylvania federal judge has ruled that major pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) cannot escape a suit brought by 41 insurers over purportedly defective drugs produced by a now-defunct Puerto Rican manufacturer.The insurers invoked a recent decision by the Third Circuit Court of Appeals that allowed union health funds to bring a claim against GSK under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.US District Judge Juan Sanchez found that the insurer plaintiffs were economically injured by purchasing the adulterated drugs. The judge recalled the Third Circuits ruling in a case over GSKs Avandia diabetes drug.Under In re: Avandia, an insurers overpayment for a drug due to the manufacturers deceptive market practices is a concrete economic injury, Judge Sanchez said. Plaintiffs have sufficiently pleaded an analogous injury here.GSKs Puerto Rico unit pled guilty to charges brought by the US Department of Justice in 2010. The company also had to pay $750 million to settle whistleblower claims after a former quality assurance manager filed a False Claims Act suit against it in 2004. Court documents said that the factory manufactured defective drugs and jumbled medications for years.The 41 insurers filed a suit in August 2013, claiming GSK induced them to pay billions of dollars for the defective and purportedly falsely marketed drugs from Puerto Rico. GSK did not react when presented with the problems, the plaintiffs additionally claimed, and the pharmaceutical company allegedly chose to cover the entire thing up.In response to GSKs dismissal of the case, insurers took a page from the Avandia example, wherein the appeals court ruled that the third-parties had established RICO standing by pleading economic injury. The court found then that GSKs alleged fraudulent conduct resulted in an overpriced drug.GSK argued that the matters with the current case and the Avandia case were wholly different. According to the company, plaintiffs in the latter case had argued that misrepresentations about the safety of the drug led both to increased prices and to higher quantities prescribed. The current case saw plaintiffs allege that the drugs were made worthless due to violations at the plant, but did not show how that fact affected the quality of the drugs.Although plaintiffs here do not allege the same excess price and quantity effect theories put forth by the In re: Avandia plaintiffs, they do put forth a theory, with supporting facts, that includes elements of both theories: GSKs nondisclosure rendered the at-issue drugs worthless, and physicians would have not prescribed the at-issue drugs at all had GSK not concealed the ... violations because plaintiffs would not have placed the drugs on their formularies, said Judge Sanchez in response to the argument.
TDI data also reflects an increase in claims coursed through networks, as they currently represent almost half of workers compensation claims in the state, up from 20% in 2010.
The regulator further observed that network claims costs have been on a steady decline, in contrast to the rise in out-of-network costs. Also, for the first time since the adoption of health care networks in the Texas workers compensation system, the average medical cost per claim at six months and 18 months was lower for injured employees treated within a network compared with those who sought treatment outside a network.
D.C. Campbell, director of the TDI research and evaluation group, which produces the report, credits the improved network results to early action taken on claims.
One of the strategies weve noticed is that networks provide higher levels of medical care earlier on, Campbell noted.
Steve Nichols, workers compensation manager for the Insurance Council of Texas, believes that the networks use of cream of the crop doctors who provide higher quality care overall also played a role.
By creating strong partnerships with our clients both employers and claims administrators we keep everyone focused on the goals of getting injured workers back to work as quickly as possible and managing costs responsibly, Doug Markham, WellComp president, explained.
Networks did not only outperform non-networks in average medical costs, however. The TDI report also noted that networks provide relatively better costs for physical medicine modalities, diagnostic testing, enhanced access to care, overall health outcomes, and return to work rates.
TDI also found that injured workers treated in a network used professional and pharmacy services more, but did not use hospital services as much.
Related stories:
Payers workers comp drug spend declines: survey
Labor statistics reveal decline in workplace injuries
Threat or opportunity for the insurance industry? Wherever you stand on the issue of insurtech, there is no denying that innovations are coming and that insurers and brokers alike need to be on top of the changes or risk being left behind.One such example is a new app from insurtech start-up SafeStuff a platform that has been designed to establish transparency between users and insurance companies by letting users take control of their possessions and evaluate their net worth with a few clicks and swipes. The idea is that they can handle their insurance claims through a much faster, simpler and secure process, since they will have proof of what they own in case it gets stolen or damaged, enabling them to also choose the most appropriate insurance for their assets. Its founder and CEO, Alfred Karlsten, was named as SKAPAs Innovator of the Year in his native Stockholm, and is confident the app can benefit insurers, brokers and consumers alike.[With the app] everything is accounted for every object, every price and every receipt. We have the proof, we ease the process, he explained to Insurance Business.Customers have the possibility to do their damage control through the use of our app. Thus we help them take matter into their own hands quite literally - since they will be able to see and manage everything that is happening with their belongings. Having more control but with less effort means maximizing customer satisfaction, which is key in our endeavour, and means that both us and the insurance companies have a common goal that we can immediately start working towards.Seventy five per cent of insurers think the most important effect of fintech is increased focus on the customer. We have estimated that an insurance agent could save up to 70% of the time with an insurance claim, seeing as the process is digital there is no need for paperwork or human interface.Noting that we are not a competitor, we are a facilitator to the insurance industry, Karlsten, who created the idea while brainstorming with a friend who fell victim to a burglary, has already made the app available in his home country with rapid expansion planned. He reveals that he is currently in contact with two insurance companies with the idea of integrating the apps service with that of the insurer.For Karlsten there is no doubt that insurtech represents an opportunity for the industry and believes its vital that companies stop viewing technology as a disruptor and start embracing a more positive tone.The most widely used term when it comes to the emergence of insurtech as a means of digitalization is disruption, he explained. This is a term that more often than not inclines perhaps towards pessimism, confusion, disarray. This adverse tone should be abolished, and here is why: we like to think of SafeStuff as a currently missing ligament in the body of insurance, tying bone to bone together the insurers and the customers. What it does is very far from disruption it connects.On this note, try to rid of the idea that insurtech waves of innovation will put insurers out of business, that they interfere negatively this innovation wave should be surfed and embraced fully instead of avoided.
While some business leaders are wary of the looming Trump presidency, the finance boss of one of the biggest global insurers is upbeat on how the next US president and his administration can affect companies.In an interview with CNBC late last week, Zurich CFO George Quinn said that some of the campaign promises made by US President-elect Donald Trump could play to the advantage of insurers.Quinn said Trumps proposals could create a favourable climate for Zurichs two large businesses.Some of the commitments that the president has made around infrastructure spend and changed tax reform could be very beneficial, could prompt some growth, CNBC quoted Quinn as saying in an online report.And of course if the US economy grows given the size of the business we have there, this could be very beneficial for us, he added.But regardless of how Trumps policies will shake up the US and the world, Quinn said Zurich is prepared for the potential impact.Well cope with whatever changes emerge in the US, were an adaptable organization, he told CNBC. I guess its not clear yet so its very hard to be concrete about whats to come.Trump was elected last week as the 45th US president in a stunning upset win over Hillary Clinton.Unlike Quinn, Allianz CEO Oliver Bate earlier expressed pessimism over a Trump presidency as he warned of possible slowdown in international trade.I expect an expansionary fiscal policy but also a tendency towards a protectionist trade policy with far-reaching negative consequences for the global economy, Bate told the Financial Times last week.
The Berkshire County Education Task Force meets Saturday morning to review the report. The task force is made up of educators, administrators and school officials. PreviousNext
Education Task Force Plans Presentations of Phase 1 Report
Eliot Levine, senior researcher manager for the Donahue Institute, presented the Phase 1 report on Saturday morning.
DALTON, Mass. Enrollment is declining in Berkshire County schools and costs are rising.
It's one of those things everyone knows now there's concrete data confirming those notions and pinning down some of the effects on Berkshire County education.
The Berkshire County Task Force on Saturday morning reviewed a 77-page report commissioned from the University of Massachusetts' Donahue Institute on the state of county education.
It's not pretty.
Enrollment is down 22.3 percent over the last 15 years in 17 of the school districts being studied. The only exceptions are McCann Technical School and Berkshire Arts & Technology Public Charter School, both of which have some control over the students they accept.
That decline is substantial compared to the statewide drop of 1.7 percent in K-12 enrollment during the same time period.
The task force was established more than a year ago by school officials, business leaders, local government leaders and Massachusetts Teachers Association representatives to create recommendations on sustaining high quality education in the county's increasing difficult funding and population situation.
The Phase 1 report looked at enrollment trends, cost and revenue trends, and educational program trends. The task force's goal is provide recommendations that improve the quality of education, with the idea that solving or alleviating funding problems would also free up money that can be spent on academics and that collaborations could provide more curricular opportunities.
"This provides what we hope is a benchmark as we move into our challenging Phase 2," said task force Chairman John Hockridge, a member of the North Adams School Committee.
Eliot Levine, presenting the report Saturday morning at Nessacus Middle School, said the institute pulled from available data and from interviews with school committee members and with administrators on changes in programming over the pa st five years and extrapolations into the next five. To dig in deeper, there were also interviews with five administrators who had been in the area for at least 15 years to be get a better focus on the longer time frame.
However, Levine said there are no optimal district sizes and the few studies of regionalization have reported both substantial savings, saving projections and, in some cases, minimal savings or greater costs.
BCETF Phase One Final Report by iBerkshires.com on Scribd
Richard Morgenthal, center, with his wife, Leslie, and SVHC President Thomas Dee, tells how important he sees the center as an economic catalyst. The open house on Saturday drew a crowd from around the region. Leslie Morgenthal's nature prints fill the center. PreviousNext
SVMC Pownal Campus Marks Successful First Year
SVHC President Thomas Dee sees the Pownal campus as a prototype for future centers and as something that can be expanded.
POWNAL, Vt. Southwestern Vermont Medical Center's Pownal campus opened up just a year ago to fill a need for medical care in the area and a model for the future of primary care.
Since then, some 4,600 patients have come through doors, a third of them from Massachusetts to the south.
"We knew that Pownal was an underserved area and having primary-care health center was critical," said Thomas Dee, president and CEO of Southwestern Vermont Health Care. "We're looking to have a number of these centers throughout out our coverage area. This is the first one that was built from the ground up."
The center's development became more critical as North Adams (Mass.) Regional Hospital closed in 2014 during its planning and several primary care physicians left the area widening an already existing gap. "It's not solving it, but it's helping to address it," Dee said.
His comments were made Saturday at a open house and celebration of the first-year anniversary of the care center. The parking lot was full and patients and residents toured the 5,000-square-foot facility. There was a spread featuring seasonal and local foods and center employees were on hand to greet people and explain elements of the building.
The Pownal office has eight examination rooms, two consult rooms, an X-ray and the capability to do blood draws that can be couriered to Bennington for analysis. It currently has about 10 employees, including three physicians, and will be adding a nurse practitioner in March.
A diabetes and a pharmacy consultant also have hours at the center and it has the capability for telemedicine consultations with specialists at SVMC affiliate Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, N.H.
"I'd like to move toward having a model of an express care type service that could be added here that allows patients to come without an appointment to be seen by a clinician," Dee said. "This is a model, something that can be expanded on. We built it for expansion. ...
"This is a medical home, an environment that's very home-like."
It was constructed last year, near the Massachusetts border, as part of plan to develop community centers in the Southwestern Vermont Health Care. There is one Manchester and another in Wilmington; an express care facility has also been added to the SVMC campus in Bennington.
Protesters march around Field Park on Saturday morning to oppose the election of Donald J. Trump. PreviousNext
Williamstown Joins Nationwide Protests Against Trump
WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. Nearly one week ago, Donald J. Trump was elected president of the United States.
On Saturday morning in Williamstown, a group of several hundred students and community members joined protesters all over the country in denouncing the results of the election.
Demonstrators of all ages filled Field Park with signs reading "Not Our President," "Love Trumps Hate" and "Black Lives Matter." Cars driving by honked, eliciting cheers from those at the demonstration, which was organized by North Berkshires for Racial Justice in conjunction with students and staff from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts and Williams College, Buxton School, and other community members.
"I hope that people who weren't active before will use this as a jumping off point," Jane Berger of North Berkshire for Racial Justice said Monday. "It is important to stay angry and fight the temptation to return to business as usual. That sort of privilege is what brought us here in the first place."
iBerkshires.com posted some pictures of the protest to Facebook, which immediately started filling up with comments criticizing the protesters.
"Why don't you all put that energy to work doing something positive for the community. Go out and support our veterans or help with the homeless or donate your time serving meals to the less fortunate, grow up," one commenter said.
"Anti democratic communists protesting. People like that used to be called enemies of our country and traitors and were punished as such," another said on Facebook.
Indeed, Trump himself denounced the demonstrations, first on Twitter claiming the protesters were incited by and paid by the media, then expressing admiration for their passion for the country, before telling CBS' Lesley Stahl on "60 Minutes" on Sunday night that he thinks it's "horrible" and blaming "the press."
Protests were held Sunday in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Philadelphia and more cities. Protests in Portand, Ore., saw some violence, but overall reports show the majority of demonstrations have been peaceful.
Many are protesting not just the election of Trump and his campaign rhetoric, but the incidents of racial unrest in the aftermath of the election attributed to Trump supporters, accused of harassing Latinos and Muslims. Trump also told Stahl on "60 Minutes" he wanted to see that end, as well.
Locally, Berger said North Berkshires for Racial Justice will be holding another meeting soon to discuss future endeavors, which will be posted on its Facebook page.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) welcomed the Kingdom of Morocco as an Association Country on Monday, deepening the partnership between both parties for a more sustainable and secure energy future.
The announcement was made by Mr Paul Simons, the IEAs Deputy Executive Director, and Mr Abderrahim El Hafidi, Secretary General of the Ministry of Energy, Mines, Water and the Environment, in Marrakech, host city of the United Nations Conference of Parties (COP22) summit.
Morocco becomes the latest member of the IEA family and the first country in the Middle East and North Africa to join the IEAs Association initiative aimed at opening its doors to emerging economies. Morocco is now the IEAs fifth Association country, joining China, Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore.
Morocco has abundant renewable energy resources, mainly solar, wind and hydro-power, and is a regional leader in deploying clean energy technologies. The government is pursuing a policy of reducing its dependence on imported fossil fuels and increasing the share of renewable energy in power generation. It was also among the first countries of the Middle East and North Africa to cut fossil fuel subsidies and introduce energy efficiency measures.
The Association programme provides a platform for the IEA to engage more extensively with partner countries including on energy security, energy data and statistics, and energy policy analysis. It also enables partner countries to participate in a variety of activities, including IEA committees, and training and capacity-building activities.
Moroccos leadership and commitment to a sustainable energy future can be a model for other countries in North Africa, sub-Saharan Africa and beyond, particularly in the electricity sector, said Mr Simons. It is fitting that this very important climate summit is being held in Morocco, which has done so much to further the climate change agenda. The IEA looks forward to a closer cooperation with Morocco, which has been a close partner country for many years.
The IEAs collaboration with Morocco began in 2007, focusing particularly on the areas of energy policy, statistics, and research and development (R&D). Two years later, the government adopted a national energy strategy, setting clear targets for wind, solar and hydropower.
The IEAs 2014 energy policy review of Morocco was the first dedicated to a country in the Middle East and North Africa region. Earlier this year, the IEA published a report under its Partner Country Series setting out the findings of a pilot study testing the IEAs Clean Energy Technology Assessment Methodology (CETAM) in Morocco, one of only three countries chosen for the case study. The IEA and Morocco plan to develop new joint programmes under Association to support Morocco in its transition toward a low-carbon economy.
Imperial Valley News Center
HPV vaccine - who needs it and how it works
Rochester, Minnesota - Most cervical cancers are associated with human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. Widespread immunization with the HPV vaccine could reduce the impact of cervical cancer worldwide. Here's what you need to know about the HPV vaccine.
What does the HPV vaccine do?
Various strains of HPV spread through sexual contact and are associated with most cases of cervical cancer. Three HPV vaccines have Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in the U.S. Cervarix is for girls only, while Gardasil and Gardasil 9 can be used for both girls and boys. Gardasil 9 offers girls protection against more strains of HPV that can cause cervical cancer.
All three vaccines can prevent most cases of cervical cancer if given before a girl or woman is exposed to the virus. In addition, all three vaccines can prevent vaginal and vulvar cancer in women, and Gardasil and Gardasil 9 can prevent genital warts and anal cancer in women and men.
In theory, vaccinating boys against the types of HPV associated with cervical cancer might also help protect girls from the virus by possibly decreasing transmission. Certain types of HPV have also been linked to cancers in the mouth and throat, so the HPV vaccine likely offers some protection against these cancers, too.
Who is the HPV vaccine for and when should it be given?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine HPV vaccine for girls and boys ages 11 or 12, although some organizations recommend starting the vaccine as early as age 9 or 10. It's ideal for girls and boys to receive the vaccine before they have sexual contact and are exposed to HPV because once someone is infected with the virus, the vaccine might not be as effective or might not work at all.
Research has shown that receiving the vaccine at a young age isn't linked to an earlier start of sexual activity. Also, response to the vaccine is better at younger ages than it is at older ages.
In October 2016, the CDC updated the HPV vaccine schedule to recommend that all adolescents and teens ages 9 through 14 receive two doses of HPV vaccine at least six months apart, rather than the previously recommended three-dose schedule.
Teens and young adults who begin the vaccine series later, at ages 15 through 26, should continue to receive three doses of the vaccine.
Who should not get the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine isn't recommended for pregnant women or people who are moderately or severely ill. Tell your doctor if you have any severe allergies, including an allergy to yeast or latex. Also, if you've had a life-threatening allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine or to a previous dose of the vaccine, you shouldn't get the vaccine.
Does the HPV vaccine offer benefits if you're already sexually active?
Yes. Even if you already have one strain of HPV, you could still benefit from the vaccine because it can protect you from other strains that you don't yet have. However, none of the vaccines can treat an existing HPV infection. The vaccines protect you only from specific strains of HPV you haven't been exposed to already.
Does the HPV vaccine carry any health risks or side effects?
Overall, the effects are usually mild. The most common side effects of HPV vaccines include soreness, swelling or redness at the injection site.
Sometimes dizziness or fainting occurs after the injection. Remaining seated for 15 minutes after the injection can reduce the risk of fainting. In addition, headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue or weakness also may occur.
The CDC and the FDA continue to monitor the vaccines for unusual or severe problems.
Is the HPV vaccine required for school enrollment?
The HPV vaccine is part of the routine childhood vaccines schedule. Whether or not a vaccine becomes a school enrollment requirement is decided on a state-by-state basis.
Do women who've received the HPV vaccine still need to have Pap tests?
Yes. The HPV vaccine isn't intended to replace Pap tests. Routine screening for cervical cancer through regular Pap tests beginning at age 21 remains an essential part of a woman's preventive health care.
What can you do to protect yourself from cervical cancer if you're not in the recommended vaccine age group?
HPV spreads through sexual contact oral, vaginal or anal. To protect yourself from HPV, use a condom every time you have sex. In addition, don't smoke. Smoking raises the risk of cervical cancer.
To detect cervical cancer in the earliest stages, see your health care provider for regular Pap tests beginning at age 21. Seek prompt medical attention if you notice any signs or symptoms of cervical cancer vaginal bleeding after sex, between periods or after menopause, pelvic pain, or pain during sex.
Imperial Valley News Center
Electing to heal: Ideas for moving beyond the vote
Rochester, Minnesota - Mayo Clinic resiliency expert Dr. Amit Sood says healing the wounds of the 2016 election is not only good for your well-being, its important for the countrys safety.
If we are fighting each other, then we dont have the energy to fight somebody else who wants to hurt us, Dr. Sood explains. So one of the best ways to get strong is to heal.
Dr. Sood, author of The Mayo Clinic Guide to Stress-free Living and The Mayo Clinic Handbook for Happiness, says real healing following such a long, negative campaign will need to include forgiveness. Start by forgiving who may have annoyed us, what may have annoyed us, and look at ways to move forward.
Dr. Sood says we must accept that real differences will continue to exist, and, at the same time, choose to focus on similarities.
What brings us together? Dr. Sood asks. I think what brings us together is our passion for creating a better world for our children and a passion for creating a better country.
Finally, Dr. Sood says, try to remain compassionate. When you combine forgiveness, acceptance and compassion, then you can come together to rebuild a world, to build a country that you and I will be proud of and grateful for.
Fall prevention
Rochester, Minnesota - Falls are the leading cause of injuries for older Americans. Falls not only threaten seniors safety, but also their independence.
Having a conversation with your grandmother is a worthwhile place to begin. She may fear falling, which can decrease her mobility within the home and participation in her community. And even though your grandmother doesnt have any significant health concerns, it still would be a good idea for her to visit her doctor. Its possible that her weakness and loss of balance could signal an underlying medical condition.
A physical exam and a discussion with her doctor about her overall health could reveal specific fall risk factors or a need for health care services, such as physical therapy. A physical therapist can recommend exercises that would be helpful to her. Even gentle, low-impact activities can improve strength, balance, endurance, flexibility and coordination. A physical therapist also can determine if a walker or cane could provide safer mobility.
Your grandmothers doctor also should review any medications shes taking to make sure those medications dont have side effects that might contribute to a risk of falling. Review calcium and vitamin D requirements for optimum bone health. Annual vision and hearing checks are important, as well.
To help your grandmother prevent another fall, take a close look at the environment within her home to ensure that its safe. Taking basic steps to make a home safer can go a long way toward lowering the risk of falls. That includes eliminating tripping hazards by removing boxes, newspapers, electrical cords and phone cords from walkways. Take coffee tables, magazine racks, plant stands and coat racks out of high-traffic areas. Secure loose rugs with double-faced tape or a slip-resistant backing or simply remove the rugs. Repair any loose floorboards or carpeting. Store clothing, dishes, food and other frequently used items within easy reach.
Lighting within the home also can make a big difference. Along with keeping her home well-lit during the day, your grandmother could put nightlights in her bedroom, bathroom and hallways, and place a lamp close to her bed. You may want to consider installing glow-in-the-dark or illuminated light switches, so they are easy to find in low light. Pathways to those switches should be clear of tripping hazards.
Because you mention that weakness and balance are issues for your grandmother, make sure her home is well-suited for easy mobility. For example, there should be handrails on both sides of the stairways and nonslip treads on steps made of wood or other slick surfaces.
The bathroom can be a particularly risky area, but making a few adjustments can help. A raised toilet seat or a toilet with armrests can make it easier to get up and down without losing balance. In the shower or tub, installing nonslip mats, grab bars, a sturdy plastic seat and a handheld shower nozzle to use while sitting down can make it less likely your grandmother will slip and fall while bathing.
Many communities now have fall prevention programs specifically designed to help seniors reduce their risk of falling. Often offered as group classes, these programs usually focus on education, exercise, balance and fitness. It sounds like your grandmother could benefit from such a program. To find out if there is one in your area, ask your grandmothers doctor, or contact your local Area Agency on Aging for more information. Connie Bogard, P.T., Ph.D., Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
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Unlike the first episode of The Walking Dead season 7, this latest installment - a feature-length outing titled 'Service' - places the focus back on Rick Grimes and the remaining survivors of Negan's deadly line up for the first time since that traumatic opener (we're hoping you've recovered by now but if not, we're here for you).
In series time, less than a week has passed since the deaths of Glenn and Abraham - and now Negan has come a-knocking in an episode which sees The Saviours make their mark on the residents of the once-safe zone that was Alexandria.
It's no surprise that this episode is Negan-heavy considering Jeffrey Dean Morgan is now credited as one of the main cast members; clearly relishing every second, here are the most memorable lines spoken by the AMC drama's most fearsome antagonist yet.
Warning: the below contains swearing.
The Walking Dead Season 7 Episode 4 Preview
1. As he knocks on the gates of Alexandria
"Little pig, little pig - let me in."
2. To Rick about Daryl
"You don't look at him, you don't talk to him and I don't make you chop anything off of him."
3. After being handed Rick's videocamera
"Well well well, wht do we have here? I've got my fingers crossed for a little freaky deaky."
4. Upon seeing a bearded Rick on the camera
"Is that you, Rick? Underneath all that man bush? Shit, I would not have messed with that guy."
5. To Father Gabriel
"Holy crap, you are creepy as shit sneaking up on me wearing that collar with that freaky ass smile."
The most shocking Walking Dead moments Show all 10 1 /10 The most shocking Walking Dead moments The most shocking Walking Dead moments Sophie's a walker (season 2, episode 7) Much of season two's opening half is spent looking for Sophia, the missing daughter of Carol (Melissa McBride). Turns out she was locked up in Hershel's barn as a zombie all along. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Shane reanimates without being bitten (season 2, episode 12) When Carl (Chandler Riggs) guns down a deranged Shane (Jon Bernthal) to protect his father, the shock arrives when he manifests into a walker despite not being bitten; turns out everyone's infected with the virus and will turn whichever way they die. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Axel's bullet to the eye (season 3, episode 10) A character introduced in the show's prison arc, Axel is a reformed prisoner who strikes up a friendship with Carol - until he's gunned down mid-sentence. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Carl kills Lori after she gives birth (season 3, episode 4) Lori (Sarah Wayne Callies) goes into labour at the very moment a zombie siege breaks out at the prison. Unfortunately, she doesn't make it through the procedure with her son Carl being the one to put a bullet to her head. The most shocking Walking Dead moments The Governor slays Hershel (season 4, episode 8) The Governor makes his dramatic return for a showdown at the prison after he captures Michonne (Danai Gurira) and Hershel (Scott Wilson). Rick reaches out, attempting to reason with him - but The Governor starts a war when he proceeds to decapitate poor old Hershel instead. The most shocking Walking Dead moments "Look at the flowers" (season 4, episode 14) In a standout episode from the show's fourth season, Carol is forced to take drastic measures when young teenager Lizzie murders her sister Mika in the belief that she'll live on as a zombie. Realising Lizzie's depraved mind would endanger those around her, Carol puts a gun to the young girl's head and, telling her to "look at the flowers," pulls the trigger, fighting back the tears. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Carl's bullet to the eye (season 6, episode 9) Season six returned from its mid-season break in typically dramatic fashion when an iconic moment from the graphic novels came to life: Carl takes a bullet to the eye. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Beth is killed (season 5, episode 8) Upon being kidnapped, Beth (Emily Kinney) is taken to Grady Memorial Hospital managed by Atlanta Law Enforcement. Forced to reside there against her will, the group - including Rick and Daryl (Norman Reedus) - eventually find her - only for her to be accidentally shot in the head by her captor. The worst thing? Her sister Maggie (Lauren Cohan) had just arrived outside. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Negan kills Abraham Season seven opened in brutal form as we discovered it was Abraham (Michael Cudlitz) at the opposite end of Negan's baseball bat. "Suck my nuts," the soldier growls as the Saviours' leader brings Lucille raining down on his head until nothing remains but a pulpy mess. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Negan kills Glenn Negan decides to punish the group once more after getting clocked round the face by Daryl. Without expectation, he thwacks Lucille round the head of poor Glenn. With his eyeball popping out of his head, he manages: "I'll find you, Maggie before Negan proceeds to finish the job ending the former pizza delivery boy's life.
6. About Maggie (believing her to be dead)
"I was gonna ask her to come back with me. Oh, I know what you're thinking: "How could I ever shop a guy who just bashed her husband's head in." You'd be surprised."
7. To Carl after he holds two Saviours at gunpoint
"Well, pardon me young man, excuse the shit out of my goddamn Fench but did you just threaten me?"
8. About Olivia after realising two guns went missing on her watch
"I don't enjoy killing women. Men? I can waste them all the livelong."
9. After firing one of the missing guns
"Feels good! Sounds good! I do believe Lucille's getting a little jealous."
10. After Rick thanks him as he leaves Alexandria with most of their belongings
"In case you haven't caught on, I just slipped my dick down your throat and you thanked me for it."
The Walking Dead airs in the UK every Monday at 9m on FOX
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Following yet another Negan filled episode of The Walking Dead, the fifth episode of season seven looks set to feature less of the villain and more of The Saviours.
Go Getters will take place primarily on The Hilltop - somewhere that has yet to be explored this season - with Gregory now in danger.
As shown in the clip, there will also be some scenes set in Alexandria, where Negan managed to visit last episode, as well as other locations, updating us on the likes of Carl and Enid.
The most shocking Walking Dead moments Show all 10 1 /10 The most shocking Walking Dead moments The most shocking Walking Dead moments Sophie's a walker (season 2, episode 7) Much of season two's opening half is spent looking for Sophia, the missing daughter of Carol (Melissa McBride). Turns out she was locked up in Hershel's barn as a zombie all along. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Shane reanimates without being bitten (season 2, episode 12) When Carl (Chandler Riggs) guns down a deranged Shane (Jon Bernthal) to protect his father, the shock arrives when he manifests into a walker despite not being bitten; turns out everyone's infected with the virus and will turn whichever way they die. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Axel's bullet to the eye (season 3, episode 10) A character introduced in the show's prison arc, Axel is a reformed prisoner who strikes up a friendship with Carol - until he's gunned down mid-sentence. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Carl kills Lori after she gives birth (season 3, episode 4) Lori (Sarah Wayne Callies) goes into labour at the very moment a zombie siege breaks out at the prison. Unfortunately, she doesn't make it through the procedure with her son Carl being the one to put a bullet to her head. The most shocking Walking Dead moments The Governor slays Hershel (season 4, episode 8) The Governor makes his dramatic return for a showdown at the prison after he captures Michonne (Danai Gurira) and Hershel (Scott Wilson). Rick reaches out, attempting to reason with him - but The Governor starts a war when he proceeds to decapitate poor old Hershel instead. The most shocking Walking Dead moments "Look at the flowers" (season 4, episode 14) In a standout episode from the show's fourth season, Carol is forced to take drastic measures when young teenager Lizzie murders her sister Mika in the belief that she'll live on as a zombie. Realising Lizzie's depraved mind would endanger those around her, Carol puts a gun to the young girl's head and, telling her to "look at the flowers," pulls the trigger, fighting back the tears. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Carl's bullet to the eye (season 6, episode 9) Season six returned from its mid-season break in typically dramatic fashion when an iconic moment from the graphic novels came to life: Carl takes a bullet to the eye. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Beth is killed (season 5, episode 8) Upon being kidnapped, Beth (Emily Kinney) is taken to Grady Memorial Hospital managed by Atlanta Law Enforcement. Forced to reside there against her will, the group - including Rick and Daryl (Norman Reedus) - eventually find her - only for her to be accidentally shot in the head by her captor. The worst thing? Her sister Maggie (Lauren Cohan) had just arrived outside. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Negan kills Abraham Season seven opened in brutal form as we discovered it was Abraham (Michael Cudlitz) at the opposite end of Negan's baseball bat. "Suck my nuts," the soldier growls as the Saviours' leader brings Lucille raining down on his head until nothing remains but a pulpy mess. The most shocking Walking Dead moments Negan kills Glenn Negan decides to punish the group once more after getting clocked round the face by Daryl. Without expectation, he thwacks Lucille round the head of poor Glenn. With his eyeball popping out of his head, he manages: "I'll find you, Maggie before Negan proceeds to finish the job ending the former pizza delivery boy's life.
Meanwhile, for those still reeling from the extended episode four, you can check out The Independents review as well as the 10 most disturbing quotes from Negan.
We also discuss the five major talking points from the episode, including Rick reaching his breaking point, Negan believing Maggie is dead, and Rosita's one-woman rebellion.
Episode five of The Walking Dead season seven will air next Sunday on AMC in the US and 9pm every Monday on FOX in the UK.
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The impact of microplastics on human health will be investigated amid growing concerns that plastic pollution in the ocean is being eaten by marine creatures and then passed up the food chain.
Global plastic production has increased dramatically in recent years. Between 2004 and 2014, the amount of plastic produced rose by 38 per cent, according to a recent report by the United Nations.
Recommended UN warns of growing threat of plastic pollution to human health
Dame Sally Davies, the chief medical officer for England, is to study the risks from eating seafood containing tiny particles of plastic. Experts are concerned that millions of tonnes of tiny debris from plastic bags, bottles and clothes in the worlds oceans could have potentially harmful effects on the body.
Someone eating half a dozen oysters is likely to consume 50 tiny pieces of microplastic, according to a report by the House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee, released earlier this year.
In its response to the report the Government acknowledged that there is little evidence on the impact to human health from eating the plastic.
However, it added that research has shown high concentrations could cause physical harm to marine worms and microplastics could transfer along a simple food chain such as from a mussel to a crab.
Mary Creagh, chair of the committee, said: Its welcome news that the Chief Medical Officer will investigate the impact of microplastics on human health.
Our inquiry recommended more research in this area, as microplastics are found frequently in seafood like shellfish and oysters.
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
Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5mm. They can be created unintentionally from the fragmentation of larger pieces of plastic waste, and also include the microbeads used in cosmetic and personal care products.
The committees report estimated that between 15 and 51 trillion microplastic particles have accumulated in the oceans, with between 80,000 and 219,000 tonnes of microplastics entering the sea from Europe each year.
The Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is currently working with countries in the Oslo and Paris Convention for the protection of the North East Atlantic (OSPAR) to ensure cosmetics companies continue to phase out the use of microplastics, while the European Commission is already developing to ban the use of microbeads within cosmetics products in EU countries.
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Smoking cannabis may double the risk of a rare condition that temporarily weakens the heart, research has shown.
Stress cardiomyopathy mimics signs of a heart attack, resulting in chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness and sometimes fainting.
The symptoms, caused by a reduction in the heart's ability to pump blood, are usually temporary but experts warned they could indicate more serious trouble.
Cannabis users experiencing an episode of stress cardiomyopathy were significantly more likely than non-users to go into cardiac arrest or need correction to abnormal heart rhythms.
Dr Amitoj Singh, from St Luke's University in Pennsylvania, who co-led the US study, said: The effects of marijuana, especially on the cardiovascular system, are not well known yet.
With its increasing availability and legalisation in some states, people need to know that marijuana may be harmful to the heart and blood vessels in some people.
The researchers analysed data from 33,343 Americans who were hospitalised with stress cardiomyopathy between 2003 and 2011.
Recommended UK government finally concedes cannabis has a medicinal effect
After taking a range of risk factors into account, the study showed that cannabis users were almost twice as likely to develop stress cardiomyopathy than non-users.
Active cannabis use was identified either from information provided by the patient or a urine test.
Cannabis users were also more likely to have a history of depression, psychosis, anxiety disorder, alcoholism or multiple substance abuse.
If you are using marijuana and develop symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath, you should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to make sure you aren't having stress cardiomyopathy or another heart problem, said Dr Singh.
World's 10 deadliest street drugs Show all 10 1 /10 World's 10 deadliest street drugs World's 10 deadliest street drugs Whoonga Whoonga is a combination of antiretroviral drugs, used to treat HIV, and various cutting agents such as detergents and poisons. The drug is widely available in South Africa due to South Africas high rate of HIV sufferers, and is believed to be popular due to how cheap it is when compared to prescribed antiretrovirals. The drug is highly addictive and can cause major health issues such as internal bleeding, stomach ulcers and ultimately death Getty World's 10 deadliest street drugs Scopolamine Scopolamine is a derivative from the nightshade plant found in the Northern Indian region of South America (Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela). It is generally found in a refined powder form, but can also be found as a tea. The drug is more often used by criminals due its high toxicity level (one gram is believed to be able to kill up to 20 people) making it a strong poison. However, it is also believed that the drug is blown into the faces of unexpecting victims, later causing them to lose all sense of self-control and becoming incapable of forming memories during the time they are under the influence of the drug. This tactic has reportedly been used by gangs in Colombia where there have been reports of people using scopolamine as way to convince victims to rob their own homes World's 10 deadliest street drugs Heroin Founded in 1874 by C. R. Alder Wright, heroin is one of the worlds oldest drugs. Originally it was prescribed as a strong painkiller used to treat chronic pain and physical trauma. However in 1971 it was made illegal under the Misuse of Drugs Act. Since then it has become one of the most destructive substances in the world, tearing apart communities and destroying families. The side effects of heroin include inflammation of the gums, cold sweats, a weak immune system, muscular weakness and insomnia. It can also damage blood vessels which can later cause gangrene if left untreated World's 10 deadliest street drugs Crack cocaine Crack cocaine first came about in the 1980s when cocaine became a widespread commodity within the drug trafficking world. Originally cocaine would have attracted a high price tag due to its rarity and difficulty to produce, but once it became more widespread the price dropped significantly. This resulted in drug dealers forming their cocaine into rock like shapes by using baking soda as a way of distilling the powder down into rock form. People were doing this because it allowed for them to sell cocaine at a lower quantity and to a higher number of people. The side effects of crack cocaine include liver, kidney and lung damage, as well as permanent damage to blood vessels, which can often lead to heart attacks, strokes, and ultimately death World's 10 deadliest street drugs Crystal meth Not just famous because of a certain Walter H White, but also because it is one of the most destructive drugs in the world. First developed in 1887, it became widely used during the Second World War when both sides would give it to their troops to keep them awake. It is also believed that the Japanese gave it to their Kamikaze pilots before their suicide missions. After the war crystal meth was prescribed as a diet aid and remained legal until the 1970s. Since then it has fallen into the hands of Mexican gangs and has become a worldwide phenomenon, spreading throughout Europe and Asia. The effects of crystal meth are devastating. In the short-term users will become sleep depraved and anxious, and in the long-term it will cause their flesh to sink, as well as brain damage and damage of the blood vessels World's 10 deadliest street drugs AH-7921 AH-7921 is a synthetic opioid that was previously available to legally purchase online from vendors until it became a Class A in January 2015. The drug is believed to have 80% of the potency of morphine, and became known as the legal heroin. While there has only been one death related to AH-7921 in the UK, it is believed to be highly dangerous and capable of causing respiratory arrest and gangrene World's 10 deadliest street drugs Flakka Flakka is a stimulant with a similar chemical make-up to the amphetamine-like drug found in bath salts. While the drug was originally marketed as a legal high alternative to ecstasy, the effects are significantly different. The user will feel an elevated heart rate, enhanced emotions, and, if enough is digested, strong hallucinations. The drug can cause permanent psychological damage due to it affecting the mood regulating neurons that keep the minds serotonin and dopamine in check, as well as possibly causing heart failure World's 10 deadliest street drugs Bath salts Bath salts are a synthetic crystalline drug that is prevalent in the US. While they may sound harmless, they certainly arent the sort of salts you drop into a warm bath when having a relaxing night in, they are most similar to mephedrone, and have recently been featured throughout social media due to the zombification of its. The name comes from the fact that the drug was originally sold online, and widely disguised as bath salts. The side effects include unusual psychiatric behaviour, psychosis, panic attacks and violent behaviour, as well as the possibility of a heart attack and an elevated body temperature World's 10 deadliest street drugs Purple Drank One of the more unusual drugs around at the moment, purple drank was popularised in 90s hip hop culture, with the likes of Jay Z and Big Moe all mentioning it in their songs. It is a concoction of soda water, sweets and cold medicine, and is drunk due to cold medicines high codeine content, which gives the user a woozy feeling. However it can also cause respiratory issues and heart failure World's 10 deadliest street drugs Krokodil Krokodil is Russias secret addiction. It is believed that over one million Russians are addicted to the drug. Users of krokodil are attracted to the drug due to its low price; it is sold at 20 a gram while heroin is sold for 60. However, krokodil is considered more dangerous than heroin because it is often homemade, with ingredients including painkillers, iodine, lighter fluid and industrial cleaning agents. This chemical make-up makes the drug highly dangerous and likely to cause gangrene, and eventually rotting of the flesh
The research was presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions meeting in New Orleans.
Press Association
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On a street in Grundy, Virginia, a declining mining community that would vote 78 per cent in favour of Donald Trump, a man had an update on a trending news story.
A report about two police officers being shot in Des Moines, Iowa, was false, said the man. It had been invented, apparently to try and benefit one or other political competing in the area. He had read about it being false on the internet. (Later, it was announced the police had found and charged a suspect with the shootings.)
One of the defining features of the 2016 US presidential election was the parallel words from which opposing supporters obtained their information. The continuing fragmentation of the media and the growth of non-mainstream sources has meant that voters have never had so many options when it came to seeking out information.
There is increasing concern about the proliferation of fake news websites (Buzzfeed)
Yet, another distinctive feature was the number of stories that turned out to the utterly false. This was particularly true - though not exclusively so - for supporters of Mr Trump, who were frequently drawn to news site such Breitbart, InfoWars and Freedom Daily.
Because of social media you have access to a larger variety of information in the past, Kathleen Stansberry an assistant professor of public relations and social media at Cleveland State University, told The Independent.
Yet she said while there were many of articles published online that were well-researched and accurate, there were usually fewer gate-keepers than in traditional media with its fact-checking, accuracy and fairness.
We need to take more responsibility as media consumers and media publishers, she said.
Facebook has found itself in the crosshairs of criticism after it was accused that the social media giant had unfairly helped Mr Trump by the spread and dissemination of articles about Ms Clinton that were false. These included stories about an alleged secret son belonging to Bill Clinton that had been covered up for decades, claims that she was seriously ill and that Pope Francis had endorsed Mr Trump.
Mark Zuckerberg has reportedly demised the criticism, saying that it did not impact the election, because the fake news his social media site spread to hundreds of millions of people were not biased in favour of just one candidate.
The hoaxes that do exist are not limited to one partisan view, or even to politics, he wrote in a public post. Overall, this makes it extremely unlikely hoaxes changed the outcome of this election in one direction or the other.
Earlier this year, an investigation by BuzzFeed found that that of the Facebook posts it examined from three major right-wing websites, 38 per cent were either false or a mixture of truth and falsehood. It said readers were often likely to share such false stories and were therefore profitable for Facebook to post.
Mr Zuckerberg said more than 99 per cent of news shared on Facebook was verifiable, but acknowledged more could be done to flag fake stories which had been debunked.
We dont want any hoaxes on Facebook. Our goal is to show people the content they will find most meaningful, and people want accurate news, he wrote.
We have already launched work enabling our community to flag hoaxes and fake news, and there is more we can do here. We have made progress, and we will continue to work on this to improve further.
Steve Bannon, the former head of Breitbart who took a leave of absence to lead Mr Trumps campaign, is now set to take up a position within the new administration as political counsellor. His appointment has delighted many on the alt-right and white extremists.
Richard Spencer, who heads the National Policy Institute, a white supremacist think tank based in Arlington, Virginia, welcomed Mr Bannons move into the White House.
He said on Twitter: Bannon is not a chief of staff, which requires a golden retriever personality. Hell be freed up to chart Trumps macro-trajectory.
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While many are busy speculating about what the next four years with Donald Trump as President will look like, Ivana Trump has actually given the world some predictions based on her real-life, first-hand experience of The Donald.
The President-elect's first wife, who is a Czech-American businesswoman, socialite, former fashion model and even appeared on Celebrity Big Brother in 2010, has given an interview with the New York Post which includes a number of gems about the victorious Republican.
From his living arrangements to his apparent sleeping patterns, Ms Trump has given her perspective on the billionaire property tycoon.
She remarks on his attachment to his private jet
Ms Trump predicts that he is likely to keep his own plane, which has been dubbed the Trump Force One by some, rather than adopting the presidential air force. According to a Discovery Channel documentary featuring the plane, Mr Trump's Boeing 757 cost $100 million.
I think he probably will keep his own plane. Hes very happy in his own plane, she told the publication.
President Donald Trump life in pictures Show all 16 1 /16 President Donald Trump life in pictures President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump poses in a rocking chair once used by President John F. Kennedy at his New York City residence Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Developer Donald Trump with his new bride Marla Maples after their wedding at the Plaza hotel in New York Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and Celina Midelfart watch the match between Conchita Martinez and Amanda Coetzer during U.S. Open. She was the date whom Donald Trump was with when he met his current wife Melania at a party in 1996 Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas serving as the grand marshal for the Daytona 500, speaks to Donald Trump and Melania Knauss on the starting grid at the Daytona International Speedwa Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Developer Donald Trump talks with his former wife Ivana Trump during the men's final at the U.S. Open Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and his friend Melania Knauss pose for photographers as they arrive at the New York premiere of Star Wars Episode : 'The Phantom Menace,' Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Billionaire real estate developer Donald Trump talks with host Larry King. Trump told King that he was moving toward a possible bid for the United States presidency with the formation of a presidential exploratory committee Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump answers questions as Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura looks on in Brooklyn Park. Trump said on Friday he 'very well might' make a run for president under the Reform Party banner but had not made a final decision Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Billionaire Donald Trump makes a face at a friend as he sits next to Panamanian President Mireya Moscoso before the start of the 2003 Miss Universe pageant in Panama City Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Entrepreneur Donald Trump is greeted by a Marilyn Monroe character look-a-alike, as he arrives at Universal Studios Hollywood to attend the an open casting call for his NBC television network reality series 'The Apprentice.' Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and Simon Cowell present an Emmy during the 56th annual Primetime Emmy Awards at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and Megan Mullally perform at the 57th annual Primetime Emmy Awards at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump, poses with his children, son Donald Trump, Jr., and daughters Tiffany and Ivanka Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Billionaire Donald Trump told Miss USA 2006 Tara Conner on Tuesday she would be given a second chance after reported misbehavior Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump holds a replica of his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame as his wife Melania holds their son Barron in Los Angeles Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures U.S. property mogul Donald Trump stands next to a bagpiper during a media event on the sand dunes of the Menie estate, the site for Trump's proposed golf resort, near Aberdeen, north east Scotland Reuters
She comments on his attachment to Trump Tower
Ms Trump thinks the President-elect will struggle to leave his New York penthouse on the 66th floor of Trump tower. Unsurprisingly, he appears to have grown rather attached to the marble pillars, crystal chandeliers, gigantic painted portraits depicting Greek myths, cherub statues, and indoor fountain.
She did not think the White House was a patch on Trump Tower. To be perfectly honest, I think probably the Trump Tower and my townhouse in New York is much better than the White House, she said while laughing.
I dont think he will ever give up [his apartment at] the Trump Tower. I know it is probably inconvenient for the residents, but he is going to work it out. But he is moving to White House [as his primary residence].
Donald is like a good French wine. He doesnt like to be moved and traveled.
Obama says Trumps temperament 'will not serve him well'
She jokes that Melania trump will be doing the packing
Ms Trump said she did not envy Melania Trump because she might have to start to pack the clothes.
She claims he only sleeps three hours a night
Like Margaret Thatcher, she claims Mr Trump only sleeps three hours a night and relishes in working from morning until late at night.
A representative for Mr Trump did not immediately respond to request for comment.
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It may seem surreal now that a former reality TV star with a penchant for repetition, making obscene, disturbing comments about women and promising to use water-boarding as a method of so-called enhanced interrogation because he likes it a lot is the President-elect of the US, but that could become normal sooner than people think, John Oliver has warned.
President Obama once roasted Mr Trump while he was sat stony-faced in an audience about his plans to run for President in 2011, a once comedic moment in time he has since lived to regret. Now, he says he is rooting for his success. Ms Clinton, facing the tide of aggression Mr Trump unleashed against her during this election, asked the US to give him a chance.
While democracy means accepting the will of the people, Oliver says this optimistic sentiment takes it a bit too far.
It can feed into the normalisation of Donald Trump, " he said in a 30-minute segment about Mr Trump's presidency. "And hes not normal. Hes abnormal. [] He sticks out like a sore thumb - and frankly, he even looks like a sore thumb. Giving him a chance in the sense of not speaking out immediately against policies hes proposed is dangerous because some of them are alarming.
It is going to be too easy for things to start feeling normal - especially if you are someone who is not directly impacted by his actions. Keep reminding yourself: this is not normal.
Write it on a Post-it note and stick it on your refrigerator, hire a skywriter once a month, tattoo it on your ass, because a Klan-backed misogynist internet troll is going to be delivering the next State of the Union address, and that is not normal. It is f**ked up.
It has been five days since his election victory and we are already catching glimpses of the America Mr Trump hopes to foster. Thats an America where same-sex marriage is still legal, but only because it's already settled into law, womens abortion rights are threatened and three million criminals are deported en masse.
Trump: Wall between US and Mexico will be fencing
Mr Trump, now assuming a firmly pro-life stance after once taking three different stances on abortion in five days, in his first televised interview suggested women could just travel to other states if they need a termination should the pro-life Supreme Court judge he plans to instate help overturn Roe Vs Wade.
Steve Bannon, the far right Breitbart executive chairman who has been accused of racism and anti-Semitism, has been announced as Mr Trumps chief strategist, a very senior role.
The wall between Mexico and the US is still very much in the pipeline, although Mr Trump now says part of it could actually be a fence. His enthusiastic use of social media to disseminate some of his most hardline messages appears set to continue. "Its a great form of communication. Now, do I say Ill give it up entirely and throw out, thats a tremendous form I pick up Im picking up now, I think I picked up yesterday 100,000 people. Im not saying I love it, but it does get the word out. When you give me a bad story or when you give me an inaccurate story or when somebody other than you and another network, or whatever, cause of course, CBS would never do a thing like that right? I have a method of fighting back."
Mr Trump also demonstrated a reassuring new way of properly dealing with hate crimes in the same CBS interview: by looking directly at the camera and demanding perpetrators stop it. I say, Stop it. If it if it helps, I will say this, and I will say it right to the cameras: Stop it.
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A picture supposedly says a thousand words but the image of Donald Trump and Nigel Farage surrounded by his Brexit allys in a glittering gold lift is likely to leave many viewers speechless. While 66 floors below them protesters shouted Youre fired Donald!, Pussy grabs back and Love Trumps hate, these six men raised a glass to their victory over the so-called Liberal elite.
In a bizarre and unprecedented move in British politics, Nigel Farage appears to be spearheading the UKs special relationship with America. After all, the UKIP leader and MEP was the first British politician to meet the President-elect over the weekend.
The newly formed friendship between the property-magnate-President-elect and Mr Farage has been widely reported on - they have met on more occasion than one and Mr Farage even joined him at a rally in Mississippi back in August. At this particular meeting, Mr Farage claimed members of the Republican's inner circle were concerned about unflattering remarks made by British Cabinet ministers however Mr Trump informed him he had a nice phone call with Theresa May.
Of course, Mr Farage did not make the trip alone. Instead, he was accompanied by his former chief aid Raheem Kassam, Leave.EU communications director Andy Wigmore, leave.EU campaigner Gerry Gunster, and UKIP donor Arron Banks. Christening themselves The Brex Pistols, Mr Farages key allies appeared visibly elated in the image.
Decorated by designer Angelo Donghi, the men in photo are reported to have been enthralled up the opulent surroundings of his penthouse which includes marble pillars, crystal chandeliers, gigantic painted portraits depicting Greek myths, cherub statues and even an indoor fountain. All in gold of course.
But who exactly are the men in the photo in question and what brings them to Trump Tower?
President Donald Trump life in pictures Show all 16 1 /16 President Donald Trump life in pictures President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump poses in a rocking chair once used by President John F. Kennedy at his New York City residence Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Developer Donald Trump with his new bride Marla Maples after their wedding at the Plaza hotel in New York Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and Celina Midelfart watch the match between Conchita Martinez and Amanda Coetzer during U.S. Open. She was the date whom Donald Trump was with when he met his current wife Melania at a party in 1996 Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas serving as the grand marshal for the Daytona 500, speaks to Donald Trump and Melania Knauss on the starting grid at the Daytona International Speedwa Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Developer Donald Trump talks with his former wife Ivana Trump during the men's final at the U.S. Open Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and his friend Melania Knauss pose for photographers as they arrive at the New York premiere of Star Wars Episode : 'The Phantom Menace,' Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Billionaire real estate developer Donald Trump talks with host Larry King. Trump told King that he was moving toward a possible bid for the United States presidency with the formation of a presidential exploratory committee Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump answers questions as Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura looks on in Brooklyn Park. Trump said on Friday he 'very well might' make a run for president under the Reform Party banner but had not made a final decision Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Billionaire Donald Trump makes a face at a friend as he sits next to Panamanian President Mireya Moscoso before the start of the 2003 Miss Universe pageant in Panama City Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Entrepreneur Donald Trump is greeted by a Marilyn Monroe character look-a-alike, as he arrives at Universal Studios Hollywood to attend the an open casting call for his NBC television network reality series 'The Apprentice.' Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and Simon Cowell present an Emmy during the 56th annual Primetime Emmy Awards at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and Megan Mullally perform at the 57th annual Primetime Emmy Awards at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump, poses with his children, son Donald Trump, Jr., and daughters Tiffany and Ivanka Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Billionaire Donald Trump told Miss USA 2006 Tara Conner on Tuesday she would be given a second chance after reported misbehavior Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump holds a replica of his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame as his wife Melania holds their son Barron in Los Angeles Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures U.S. property mogul Donald Trump stands next to a bagpiper during a media event on the sand dunes of the Menie estate, the site for Trump's proposed golf resort, near Aberdeen, north east Scotland Reuters
Raheem Kassam
A former chief advisor to Mr Farage, Kassam is now editor-in-chief of right-wing news site Breitbart News London. Like Mr Trump, Kassam has also been known to dish out the odd sexist comment. Not only did he call his then fellow leadership contender Suzanne Evans a wrinkly old ginger bird, in June he posted a now-deleted tweet suggesting First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon should have her mouth taped shut. And her legs, so she can't reproduce. He apologised for the remarks.
Kassam contested Ukip's November 2016 leadership election before dropping out of the race at the end of October. His campaign slogan took inspiration from Mr Trump and was Make Ukip great again. He has previously labelled his movement as "Faragist" and joked that he was the Faragest of the Faragists.
Arron Banks
Banks is a prominent Ukip donor and is co-founder of the Leave.EU campaign. Prior to investing his money in Ukip, he was a Conservative Party donor but announced he was switching parties by donating 1million to Ukip in October 2014.
After the tragic murder of Labour MP Jo Cox, Banks commissioned a controversial poll on whether her murder had affected public opinion on voting. Probed about whether the wording of the poll had been tasteless, Banks said: I don't think so.
We were hoping to see what the effect of the event was. That is an interesting point of view, whether it would shift public opinion.
He has cited Mr Trumps success as being the result of connecting with voters on an emotional level. The remain campaign featured fact, fact, fact, fact, fact. It just doesnt work. You have got to connect with people emotionally. Its the Trump success. Since the Brexit vote, he has been adamant that Leave.EU will continue campaigning as a rightwing Momentum.
Gerry Gunster
Unlike Kassam and Banks, Gunster was something of an invisible, faceless force behind the Brexit campaign. Appointed by Banks, Gunster is a Washington political strategist who has worked on dozens of referendums in America. The advocacy firm he heads, Goddard Gunster, claims it has a 90 per cent success rate.
Banks has previously dubbed Gunster "the best referendum fighter in America. Banks told Politico his advice was: You have to have messages or voices that people trust, and of course politicians are last on the list. If you want to talk about immigration, get a recently retired senior border person.
Donald Trump and Nigel Farage meet at Trump Tower in New York City
Andy Wigmore
Another key cog in the Leave.EU machine, Wigmore was head of communications for the campaign. On top of that, he is also a businessman who works closely with Banks and is a diplomat with the Belize High Commission in London working in trade and industry. Bizarrely, he is a top shooter and represented Belize in shooting at the Rio Olympics.
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Lindsay Lohan is asking Donald Trump to join her at refugee camps in Syria and Istanbul because she has had an eye opening experience in Turkey, her spokesperson has said.
Lohan has been spending time in Turkey and sharing pictures with the hashtag the world is bigger than five, a catchphrase employed by President Erdogan to call for action to save those facing conflict and persecution in Syria, as part of his broader argument the United Security Council should include more than five states.
The actress, who recently debuted a bizarre new accent she calls Lilohan, has shared pictures of herself at a refugee camp in Turkey with the hashtag, where she has met with Syrian refugee families and aid workers.
When the new President-elect announced his interview with 60 Minutes on Twitter, Lohan responded with a plea to let her help him and the world is bigger than five hashtag.
A spokesman for Lohan told The Independent: She just had an eye opening experience while she was there visiting and wants to show the whole world what is really happening over there.
He declined to comment on whether Lohans use of the world is bigger than five is a sign of her support for President Erdogan, but added: [it] has nothing to do with Trump though.
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If Hillary Clinton had been victorious as the polls had predicted it would have been Bill Clinton sitting opposite Michelle Obama at the White House. But instead, it was Melania Trump.
In less than a week, the First Lady and Ms Trump have gone from being on opposing teams in the ugliest presidential campaign in recent history to sitting on golden chairs cordially sipping tea together in the White House.
While they might be constantly compared and contrasted, the current First Lady and the soon-to-be First Lady put on their most well-mannered smiles for the meeting. After all, whats a bit of casual "plagiarism" between newfound friends?
Ms Obama, who was a vocal campaigner against Mr Trump during the campaign, took Ms Trump on a tour of her future home.
President Donald Trump life in pictures Show all 16 1 /16 President Donald Trump life in pictures President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump poses in a rocking chair once used by President John F. Kennedy at his New York City residence Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Developer Donald Trump with his new bride Marla Maples after their wedding at the Plaza hotel in New York Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and Celina Midelfart watch the match between Conchita Martinez and Amanda Coetzer during U.S. Open. She was the date whom Donald Trump was with when he met his current wife Melania at a party in 1996 Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas serving as the grand marshal for the Daytona 500, speaks to Donald Trump and Melania Knauss on the starting grid at the Daytona International Speedwa Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Developer Donald Trump talks with his former wife Ivana Trump during the men's final at the U.S. Open Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and his friend Melania Knauss pose for photographers as they arrive at the New York premiere of Star Wars Episode : 'The Phantom Menace,' Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Billionaire real estate developer Donald Trump talks with host Larry King. Trump told King that he was moving toward a possible bid for the United States presidency with the formation of a presidential exploratory committee Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump answers questions as Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura looks on in Brooklyn Park. Trump said on Friday he 'very well might' make a run for president under the Reform Party banner but had not made a final decision Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Billionaire Donald Trump makes a face at a friend as he sits next to Panamanian President Mireya Moscoso before the start of the 2003 Miss Universe pageant in Panama City Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Entrepreneur Donald Trump is greeted by a Marilyn Monroe character look-a-alike, as he arrives at Universal Studios Hollywood to attend the an open casting call for his NBC television network reality series 'The Apprentice.' Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and Simon Cowell present an Emmy during the 56th annual Primetime Emmy Awards at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump and Megan Mullally perform at the 57th annual Primetime Emmy Awards at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump, poses with his children, son Donald Trump, Jr., and daughters Tiffany and Ivanka Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Billionaire Donald Trump told Miss USA 2006 Tara Conner on Tuesday she would be given a second chance after reported misbehavior Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures Donald Trump holds a replica of his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame as his wife Melania holds their son Barron in Los Angeles Reuters President Donald Trump life in pictures U.S. property mogul Donald Trump stands next to a bagpiper during a media event on the sand dunes of the Menie estate, the site for Trump's proposed golf resort, near Aberdeen, north east Scotland Reuters
Appearing in a 60-minute interview on CBS, Ms Trump was probed about whether any awkwardness had arisen from the Republican National Convention furor which saw Ms Trump accused of plaigarising some of Ms Obamas Democratic convention speech eight years ago.
No. I didnt feel it, she said. [Michelle] was a gracious host. We had a great time and we talk about raising children in the White House. She was very warm and very nice.
Children are arguably one of the few things the First Ladies have in common. While Ms Trump has one son Barron who is ten years old. Ms Obama has two children - Malia who is 18 years old and Sasha who is 15.
In the interview, Ms Trump also admitted she was sometimes forced to monitor her husbands Twitter usage - throughout the election campaign he became notorious for inflammatory tweets.
Donald Trump: Is the President-elect already breaking campaign promises?
You never say to him, Come on? the interviewer probed. To which she replied: I did.
Her husband also chipped in, adding: She does.
You know, of course, I did many times from the beginning of the campaign," Ms Trump added. "Sometimes he listens, sometimes he doesnt...I think he - he hears me. But he will do what he wants to do on the end. Hes an adult. He knows the consequences. And I give him my opinion. And he could do whatever he likes with it.
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The April 2020 supermoon will be the biggest and brightest of 2020 as its elliptical orbit brings it closer to the Earth in more than a year.
On 7-8 April, the full moon will reach as close as 356,907km (221,772 miles), and will appear most impressive at moonrise on Tuesday and moonset on Wednesday.
Clear skies in the UK, combined with unusually low air pollution due to the coronavirus lockdown, make it one of the best opportunities in years to view the rare celestial phenomenon. Heres how to take the perfect picture of it:
Use a landmark to get perspective
Everyone will be taking pictures of the supermoon by itself, but some of the best pictures show the moon next to a land mark or trees and houses, which is what helps to give the picture a sense of place, says Nasas senior photographer, Bill Ingalls. Think of how to be creative that means tying it into some land-based object. It can be a local landmark or anything to give your photo a sense of place.
9 best images of the 2016 supermoon Show all 9 1 /9 9 best images of the 2016 supermoon 9 best images of the 2016 supermoon The moon rises over the O2 Arena in south-east London PA 9 best images of the 2016 supermoon A commerical jet flies in front of the moon on its approach to Heathrow airport in west London on November 13, 2016. AFP/Getty Images 9 best images of the 2016 supermoon A super moon rises over the Statue of Freedom on the Capitol dome in Washington, DC November 13, 2016. AFP 9 best images of the 2016 supermoon The "supermoon", the closest the moon comes to Earth since 1948, rises over the Power and Light building in downtown Kansas City, Missouri, U.S., November 13, 2016 Reuters 9 best images of the 2016 supermoon A woman sits on the rooftop terrace of a house during the "supermoon" in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, November 13, 2016 Reuters 9 best images of the 2016 supermoon The moon rises behind the eagle sculpture high atop LeVeque Tower in Columbus, Ohio, Sunday, Nov. 13, 2016 AP 9 best images of the 2016 supermoon The moon rises beyond the Arch in St. Louis as seen from the Compton Hill Water Tower on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2016 AP 9 best images of the 2016 supermoon The moon rises behind Reunion Tower in downtown Dallas, Sunday evening, Nov. 13, 2016. AP 9 best images of the 2016 supermoon The moon rises over the harbor of the costal town of Lambert's Bay, South Africa, Monday, Nov. 14, 2016 AP
Pick the best spot
Location isnt everything, but it can definitely help with getting a perfect picture of the supermoon if you have time to plan it. You can look up the best monuments or statues in your area to photograph the image of the moon against, like Mr Ingalls does in Washington D.C., where he lives. It means doing a lot of homework. I use Google Maps and other apps even a compass to plan where to get just the right angle at the right time, he told Nasa.
Use an app to find the moon
Unless you're an astronomer, the best way to know where the moon will rise or set is to use a app on your smartphone to locate it. There are several free or cheap options you can choose from, each using your phone's inbuilt accelerometer to know which way you're facing.
The apps can also tell you what phase the moon is in, while some even give other celestial details, like the location of planets and star constellations. Decent options for iOS and Android devices include Star Chart, Sky Safari and Skyview.
Get the right exposure
If youre using a camera where you can control the shutter speed, dont go for a long exposure even though the picture will be taken in low light, National Geographic photographer Mark Thiessen told the magazine, as it will lose any chance of capturing lunar detail and make the moon itself appear too bright.
April's supermoon will offer the biggest and brightest view of the full moon in over a year (Getty Images/iStockphoto)
If youre taking a picture on your camera, control the light balance by first tapping the screen where the moon appears to get the camera to focus on the object before dragging your finger up and down to play with the exposure. Youll usually want to drag it down for underexposure to be sure you have all the highlight detail, National Geographic photographer Michael Christopher Brown said.
Use a tripod for your camera or rest your phone on a solid surface
David Reneke, an astronomer and writer for Australian science magazine told ABC.net that if youre using an SLR or DSLR then its important to play with aperture settings on your camera to photograph the supermoon, but that using a tripod is essential.
Its worth using a tripod for taking pictures with a smartphone too, as any camera shake can compromise the quality of the pictures but if you dont have one to hand you can simply rest your phone on a window ledge.
For older smartphones that use a digital zoom rather than an optical zoom, its generally best not to use the zoom as it could compromise the quality of the image. Instead, take the picture and then crop it.
Newer phones like the Huawei P30 and P40 series feature incredible zoom capabilities that can take detailed pictures of far away objects. Other cameras come with special features to improve pictures of the night sky, such as the Google Pixel 4s Astro mode.
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LEGO has confirmed it stopped promotional deal with the Daily Mail in response to an online campaign to stop companies advertising with the tabloid newspaper.
The Danish toy company had previously been running free giveaways in the right-wing newspaper before the Stop Funding Hate campaign called for them cut ties.
Speaking to The Observer, LEGO affirmed its decision to leave the partnership followed being contacted by British parent Bob Jones who claimed the Mail's headlines "create distrust of foreigners" and "blame immigrants for everything".
On Saturday, the Danish company tweeted Stop Funding Hate: "We have finished the agreement with the Daily Mail and are not planning any future promotional activity with the newspaper."
Stop Funding Hate applauded LEGO's decision and have pledged to continue lobbying leading brands such as John Lewis, Waitrose and Marks & Spencer to stop adverting deals with the Mail.
Both John Lewis and Waitrose have stated they do not "make editorial judgement on a particular newspaper". The Co-Op Group has said it is "reviewing" its advertising but has not yet made a decision.
A spokesman for the campaign said: "Stop Funding Hate welcomes the decision from LEGO. We are asking brands to listen to their customers when they tell them they want to stop funding hate, and that is what they've done.
"People are becoming more aware that the money they spend could end up supporting publications whose stories, language or portrayal of certain people, fuels division. This urgently needs to addressed. These headlines harm people."
Lego stops advertising with Daily Mail
LEGO spokesperson Roar Rude Trangbaek told The Independent: "We spend a lot of time listening to what children have to say. And when parents and grandparents take the time to let us know how they feel, we always listen just as carefully.
"We are both humbled and honoured to see how much consumers all over the world express their care for our company and our brand.
"And we will continuously do our very best to live up to the trust and faith that people all around the world show us every day.
"The agreement with The Daily Mail has finished and we have no plans to run any promotional activity with the newspaper in the foreseeable future."
Bob Jones, who's Facebook post to LEGO went viral and was shared by Stop Funding Hate, said of the paper: "While I disagree with their political stand, I can accept their right to have it.
"But lately their headlines have gone beyond offering a rightwing opinion. "
UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 30 October 2022 People dressed in Halloween costumes paddle board along the river Avon in Christchurch, Dorset PA UK news in pictures 29 October 2022 Members of the public take pictures as police officers remove activists from a road during a Just Stop Oil protest, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 28 October 2022 A cosplayer attends the MCM Comic Con London 2022 at the ExCel Centre in London Reuters UK news in pictures 27 October 2022 98-year-old D-Day Veteran Bernard Morgan, whose story is among those featured on the giant poppy wall, during the launch of The Royal British Legion 2022 Poppy Appeal, at Hay's Galleria in central London PA UK news in pictures 26 October 2022 A meerkat explores a pumpkin in the enclosure at Wild Place, Bristol, where some of the animals are having pumpkin treats as part of their environmental enrichment PA UK news in pictures 25 October 2022 King Charles III welcomes Rishi Sunak during an audience at Buckingham Palace, where he invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA UK news in pictures 24 October 2022 Rishi Sunak celebrates with Tory MPs outside the Conservative Campaign Headquarters after becoming the new leader of the Conservative Party Reuters UK news in pictures 23 October 2022 The Green Man at October Plenty, Borough Market's annual Autumn Harvest festival, in London, which returns for the first time post pandemic PA UK news in pictures 21 October 2022 Sculptor Peter McKenna puts the finishing touches to a pumpkin that will form part of the Planet A Hebden Bridge Pumpkin Trail in the West Yorkshire town PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2022 Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss delivers a speech outside of 10 Downing Street in central London to announce her resignation AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 19 October 2022 Salmon leap up Stainforth Force on the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales as they swim upriver to their spawning grounds during the annual Salmon migration PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2022 Just Stop Oil protesters continue their protest for a second day on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex and which remains closed for traffic, after it was scaled by two climbers from the group PA UK news in pictures 17 October 2022 Hundreds of students take part in the traditional Raisin Monday foam fight on St Salvator's Lower College Lawn at the University of St Andrews in Fife PA UK news in pictures 16 October 2022 A protester holds a placard during a march into central London at a demonstration by the climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 15 October 2022 A member of the public drags an activist who is blocking the road during a "Just Stop Oil" protest, in London, Britain REUTERS UK news in pictures 14 October 2022 Germanys Womens double skulls during day one of the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals at Saundersfoot beach, Pembrokeshire PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2022 Family and mourners arrive at St Michael's Church, in Creeslough, for the funeral mass of 49-year-old mother of four Martina Martin, who died following an explosion at the Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough in Co Donegal on Friday PA UK news in pictures 12 October 2022 Motorists in Coventry pass trees showing autumnal colour PA UK news in pictures 11 October 2022 A woman and her dog in the the North Sea at Tynemouth Longsands beach before sunrise PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2022 Police officers remove a campaigner from a Just Stop Oil protest on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace, London PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2022 A drummer plays during the Diwali on the Square celebration, in Trafalgar Square, London PA UK news in pictures 8 October 2022 Timothee Chalamet attending the UK premiere of Bones and All during the BFI London Film Festival 2022 at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2022 Two young male fallow deer lock antlers in Dublins Phoenix park as rutting season begins PA UK news in pictures 6 October 2022 The Princess of Wales during a cocktail making competition during a visit to Trademarket, a new outdoor street-food and retail market situated in Belfast city centre, as part of the royal visit to Northern Ireland PA UK news in pictures 5 October 2022 Greenpeace protesters interrupt Prime Minister Liz Truss as she delivers her keynote speech to the Conservative Party annual conference PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2022 Prime Minister Liz Truss and Britains Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng wearing hard hats and hi-vis jackets, visit a construction site for a medical innovation campus in Birmingham AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2022 British artist Sam Cox, aka Mr Doodle, reveals the Doodle House, a twelve-room mansion at Tenterden, in Kent, which has been covered, inside and out in the artist's trademark monochrome, cartoonish hand-drawn doodles PA UK news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA UK news in pictures 22 September 2022 Woody Woodmansey, Lee Bennett, Kevin Armstrong, Nick Moran and Clifford Slapper attend the unveiling of a stone for David Bowie on the Music Walk of Fame at Camden, north London PA UK news in pictures 21 September 2022 A flock of birds in the sky as the sun rises over Dungeness in Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2022 Flowers which were laid by members of the public in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland are collected by the Hillsborough Gardening Team and volunteers to be replanted for those that can be saved or composted PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2022 The ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II travels down the long walk as it arrives at Windsor Castle for the committal service at St Georges Chapel AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 18 September 2022 A man stands among campers on The Mall ahead of the Queens funeral Reuters UK news in pictures 17 September 2022 Wolverhampton Wanderers Nathan Collins fouls Manchester Citys Jack Grealish leading to a red card. City went on to win the match at Molineux Stadium three goals to nil. Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 16 September 2022 Members of the public stand in the queue near Tower Bridge, and opposite the Tower of London, as they wait in line to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, in London AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 15 September 2022 Members of the public in the queue on in Potters Fields Park, central London, as they wait to view Queen Elizabeth II lying in state ahead of her funeral on Monday PA UK news in pictures 14 September 2022 The first members of the public pay their respects as the vigil begins around the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II in Westminster Hall, London, where it will lie in state ahead of her funeral on Monday PA UK news in pictures 13 September 2022 Crowds cheer as King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort arrive for a visit to Hillsborough Castle Getty UK news in pictures 12 September 2022 Crowds line the Royal Mile, Edinburgh, as King Charles III joins a procession from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St Giles Cathedral following the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS UK news in pictures 11 September 2022 Members of the Public pay their respects as the hearse carrying the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, draped in the Royal Standard of Scotland, is driven through Ballater AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 10 September 2022 Britain's Prince William, Prince of Wales, Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales, Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, Britain's Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, wave at well-wishers on the Long walk at Windsor Castle AFP/Getty
A Daily Mail spokesman said: "Our agreement with Lego has finished and we have no plans to run any promotional activity with Lego in the foreseeable future."
The original agreement had been for a promotional campaign of free giveaways rather than an advert, he added.
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A group of refugee children have arrived safely and quietly in Scotland, nearly three weeks after the Calais Jungle was demolished.
The Home Office said a group of girls aged between 15 and 17 who left a reception centre in France landed at Edinburgh airport on Saturday, without incident.
The children were brought to the UK by Home Office staff, with support from the local authority, under the Dubs amendment.
Several groups of unaccompanied refugee children have been transferred to England since October. An early group were taken to an immigration centre in Croydon where they were photographed and subjected to intense scrutiny by members of the rightwing media, who claimed some of them did not appear young enough.
Tory MP David Davies even called for dental checks to assess the refugees' ages.
Screens had to be erected in the London borough to protect later groups from paparazzi photographers and vitriolic headlines.
In contrast, the group of girls taken to Edinburgh are believed to have entered the UK without any trouble. The media was no notified until after they had arrived.
1,500 lone children were left unsupervised in Calais immediately after the camp they had been living in was demolished at the end of last month. The Home Office was accused of abandoning them, after they pulled out of the region and stopped processing the children's claims.
However the unaccompanied minors have now all been transported to reception centres in other parts of France and the Home Office has resumed assessments.
Home secretary Amber Rudd said priority is being given to Dubs amendment children who are under 12, who are likely to be granted refugee status in the UK, or who are at high risk of sexual exploitation.
The Home Secretary told Parliament that several hundred more children and young people will be brought to the UK.
The Home Office said those children who have come in under the criteria for the Dubs amendment, which requires the Government to give refuge to children stranded in Europe regardless of whether or not they have a family connection to the UK, will be placed, where possible, directly into the care of local authorities.
The Home Office will also continue to transfer eligible children with family links in the UK, under the Dublin Regulation.
A Home Office spokesman said: "We are continuing to work closely with the French Government and other partners to identify unaccompanied asylum seeking children who are eligible to come to Britain. As we have made clear, our focus is transferring these children as soon as possible and ensuring their safe arrival.
"After a brief pause during the clearance of the Calais camp, we can confirm the latest group of eligible unaccompanied minors has arrived in the UK.
"The Home Secretary informed Parliament last month that several hundred more children and young people will be brought to the UK in the coming weeks.
"So far more than 300 unaccompanied minors have been transferred to the UK."
The Home Office would not comment on how many children arrived at Edinburgh Airport.
It intends to confirm the total number of Dublin and Dubs transfers at the end of the process, when all of the transfers have taken place, Press Association reported.
Controversy has surrounded figures released in the past, with the charity Help Refugees claiming that Dublin agreement children those with family in the UK were counted under the new Dubs agreement which is regarding children without a family connection to the UK when they should not have been.
Scotland may be more welcoming to refugee children than England, where one in four local councils have said they will not take any unaccompanied minors because the government has not given them additional funding to cover the cost of their care.
Calais Refugee Children arrive in UK Show all 9 1 /9 Calais Refugee Children arrive in UK Calais Refugee Children arrive in UK A coach carrying the first group of unaccompanied minors from the Jungle migrant camp in Calais to be brought to Britain arrives at an immigration centre in Croydon, south London Reuters Calais Refugee Children arrive in UK A Catholic priest chats to Muslim Imans as they wait for the arrival of the coach carrying the first group of unaccompanied minors from the Jungle migrant camp in Calais to be brought to Britain arrives at an immigration centre in Croydon, south London Reuters Calais Refugee Children arrive in UK Fourteen migrant children from the 'Jungle Camp' in Calais are due to arrive in the UK today to be reunited with relatives Getty Calais Refugee Children arrive in UK Young men are escorted after stepping off a coach at the Home Offices Lunar House Getty Calais Refugee Children arrive in UK A boy is escorted after stepping off a coach at the Home Offices Lunar House after arriving from the Calais 'Jungle Camp' Getty Calais Refugee Children arrive in UK UK Border Force staff escort the first group of unaccompanied minors from the Jungle migrant camp in Calais to be brought to Britain as they arrive at an immigration centre in Croydon, south London Reuters Calais Refugee Children arrive in UK A young boy arrives on a coach at the Home Offices Lunar House after leaving the Calais 'Jungle Camp.' Fourteen migrant children from the 'Jungle Camp' in Calais are due to arrive in the UK today to be reunited with relatives Getty Calais Refugee Children arrive in UK British former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, center, flanked by Bethany Gardiner-Smith, left, from the Citizens UK charity and Bishop of Croydon Jonathan Clark speaks to the media about the 14 migrant children who will be resettled in the UK, outside Croydon Minster church in Croydon, south London AP Calais Refugee Children arrive in UK Asif Khan whose brother Aimal Khan was one of fourteen migrant children who arrived in the UK, speaks to the media outside Lunar House in Croydon, south London. The 25-year-old chef has been living in the UK for 11 years, having fled Afghanistan himself. His brother Aimal Khan, 14, also from Afghanistan, had been stranded in the Jungle for six months PA
Glasgow announced it would welcome 35 children from the Calais camp who have been identified as needing immediate help.
The local government in Edinburgh said it had costed how the capital could resettle 24 young people over a year. Under a formula proposed by the Home Office, Edinburgh would receive up to 56 unaccompanied refugee children.
Like in parts of England, there are issues with funding and the council would be expected to make up a large shortfall.
However, council leader Andrew Burns told the Edinburgh Evening News: We will be taking our fair share of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children, absolutely definitely.
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Boris Johnson stunned his EU foreign minister counterparts this afternoon by calling on the bloc to tone down its opposition to Turkey reintroducing the death penalty, it has been reported.
Diplomats present at the foreign ministers meeting in Brussels said that Mr Johnson had warned against pushing Turkey into a corner over the issue.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan backed the return of the death penalty this summer after he purged over 100,000 potential political opponents from the countrys civil service and arrested opposition political parties.
With Turkey still on paper a candidate for EU ascension and the abolition of the death penalty a condition of joining the bloc, a number of European countries have called for a halt to Turkeys accession negotiations.
One diplomat described Mr Johnsons intervention as unbelievable, according to The Financial Times newspaper.
Mr Johnson told the room that some EU states had previously taken time to abolish the death penalty in the 1980s and 1990s and that this had no been an automatic bar on membership.
Foreign diplomats and ministers in the room are said to have interpreted Mr Johnson's comments as a suggestion that the EU accession rules could be bent for Turkey.
A British diplomatic source with knowledge of the meeting however told The Independent that the Foreign Secretary was in no way defending Erdogan but simply stating the facts.
The Foreign Secretary opposes the death penalty in all circumstances, he added.
Mr Johnson campaigned hard for Brexit during the European Union referendum campaign on the basis that Turkey was about to join the bloc and open up free movement with the UK.
Since his appointment to the Cabinet the former Mayor of London has said however clarified that he in fact supports Turkey joining the EU.
We should not push Turkey into a corner, we should not overreact in a way that is against our collective interests, Mr Johnson told reporters outside the meeting.
World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty
Countries including the UK and Finland are understood to favour the continuation of Turkish EU accession negotiations because they see them as a way of influencing Turkey, a regional power in the febrile Middle Eastern region.
Turkey is currently intervening in the Syrian civil war, where it is fighting both the Isis militant group and the Kurdish-backed Syrian Democratic Forces.
Mr Erdogan has said he might put Turkey's EU accession talks to a referendum in order to speed up or end the process, which have been fully and officially underway since 1999.
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Liam Fox is like a husband who wants to divorce his wife but keep all the assets because his plans for Brexit are so unrealistic, an Irish minister says.
The International Trade minister has come under fire in a leaked memo revealing confidential discussions of a Cabinet subcommittee meeting in Dublin.
The document, obtained by The Irish Times, also identified France and other Mediterranean countries as the EU nations most likely to accept a hard Brexit.
Dr Fox, one of three so-called Brexit ministers, met the Irish Minister for Jobs, Mary Mitchell OConnor, for talks in London earlier this month.
They are known to have discussed the unique impact on Ireland of Britain leaving the EU, cross-border issues and the European Commissions plans to strengthen the single market.
Dr Fox has led the Cabinet faction pushing for a hard Brexit, which would see the UK leave both the single market and the customs union, in order to strike trade deals with non-EU countries.
According to The Irish Times, Ms Mitchell OConnor told the subcommittee that Dr Fox left her with the impression of a divorcing husband who wants to keep the family home and all other assets after the split.
He said he expected to maintain access to the single market, while introducing curbs on immigration despite EU leaders insisting such a deal will not be possible.
And he is understood to have argued that, if access to the single market is refused, the EU would have to pay compensation to countries, such as South Korea, with which the EU has a free trade deal.
Compensation would have to be paid because the market for South Korea would shrink if Britain was no longer a part of it.
Ms Mitchell OConnors comments are said to have provoked laughter from other Irish ministers, while reflecting concern about British expectations for the EU negotiations.
Charlie Flanagan, the Foreign Affairs Minister, told an earlier meeting of the same Brexit subcommittee that Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson had declined to set out how Britain would approach the talks.
The memo also outlined the approach Ireland must take to building alliances to ensure that Britain maintains as close ties as possible to the EU.
It said: It will be important to identify those member states that, like Ireland, are likely to favour a future status for the UK as close as possible to the current arrangements, and those member states which might not be unduly concerned if a hard Brexit were to happen.
Those unduly concerned countries were said to include France and other Mediterranean nations.
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Labour has branded Nigel Farage a poppy-less popinjay after the Ukip politician skipped Remembrance Sunday services in Britain so he could go to America and meet Donald Trump.
Carwyn Jones, the Labour first minister of Wales, said Mr Farage was conspicuous by his absence from services despite his party appropriating Battle of Britain imagery and rhetoric during his campaigns against the EU.
Mr Farage was hailed as the first British politician to meet the new US President-elect this weekend, and was pictured, poppy-less, with him on Remembrance weekend in a golden elevator at Mr Trumps headquarters.
Ukip defended Mr Farages decision not to wear a poppy during the visit, arguing that it would have been inappropriate for the former leader to wear the commemorative flower in the circumstances.
In an angry statement issued on Monday morning, Labours Mr Jones said: I will never insist that anyone must wear a poppy, or attend remembrance events.
This is a free country, and people choose to remember in different ways. But hypocrisy is something else altogether. You dont get to appropriate the Battle of Britain in your campaign literature, only to prioritise transatlantic photo-opps a few months later.
Mr Farage likes to play by a different set of rules, this much is true. But in what universe do we let go, without comment or censure, the pictures of this grinning poppy-less popinjay in a gold lift with Donald Trump?
Nigel Farage jokes about Donald Trump groping Theresa May
Lauded on Fox News as some latter day revolutionary, Mr Farage basked in the warm glow of right-wing acceptance. But make no mistake he made a choice between two things this weekend.
A choice between standing shoulder to shoulder with fellow Brexit in solemn remembrance, or to go on a jolly to the States to pick up a bit of reflected glory. He chose the latter. No other part leaders would get away with this, we shouldnt let Mr Farage.
A Ukip spokesperson however hit back at Mr Joness criticism, arguing that to have worn a poppy in the United States on the Sunday would have amounted to virtue signalling.
Mr Jones is probably unaware that in the US, the 11th is the day of commemoration. For Mr Farage to have worn a poppy on Sunday 13th would have been an egregious example of virtue signalling. Something normal for the likes of Mr Jones, but an anathema to Mr Farage, he said.
Mr Joness statement reads more like the look-at-me vapourings of the Lib Dems than the words of a serious man. Its sad to see how the Labour Party has fallen.
Ukip donor Arron Banks (second left) sports a poppy, unlike Mr Farage (Twitter/Leave EU)
A Ukip source said Mr Farage took Remembrance Day very seriously, regularly toured First World War battlefields and studied the conflicts history, and that it was understood to be a serious breach of protocol to wear a poppy in the circumstances.
Despite the spokespersons criticism of wearing a poppy in the US, millionaire Ukip donor Arron Banks was however pictured alongside Mr Farage in the US wearing the symbol of remembrance.
Mr Farage met Mr Trump on Saturday and then toured US TV studios the following day. He could be seen wearing an enamel badge featuring the British and American flags on both occasions but did not wear a poppy.
Nigel Farage's most controversial moments Show all 12 1 /12 Nigel Farage's most controversial moments Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he unveiled that 'breaking point' poster during the referendum Mr Farage was accused of deploying Nazi-style propaganda when he unveiled a poster showing Syrian refugees travelling to Europe under the next Breaking point. Users on social media were quick to compare the advert to a Nazi propaganda film with similar visuals and featuring Jewish refugees. The poster was particularly controversial because it was unveiled the morning of the killing of Labour MP Jo Cox Rex Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he said hed be concerned if his neighbours were Romanian In May 2014 Mr Farage was accused of a racial slur against Romanians after he suggested he would be concerned living next to a house of them. I was asked if a group of Romanian men moved in next to you, would you be concerned? And if you lived in London, I think you would be, he told LBC radio during an interview. Asked whether he would also object to living next to German children, he said: You know the difference Bongarts/Getty Images Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he said the EU campaign was won 'without a bullet being fired' Nigel Farage has said the next Prime Minister has to be a Leave supporter AFP/Getty Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he resigned as Ukip leader and came back days later After failing to win the seat of South Thanet at the general election, Nigel Farage stepped down as Ukip leader as he had promised to do during the campaign. Days later on 11 May he un-resigned and said he would stay after being convinced by supporters within the party. Well see how long his resignation lasts this time AP/Matt Dunham Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he blamed immigrants for making him late Mr Farage turned up late to a 25-a-head meet the leader style event in Port Talbot, Wales in December 2014. Asked why he was late, he blamed immigrants. It took me six hours and 15 minutes to get here - it should have taken three-and-a-half to four, he said. That has nothing to do with professionalism, what it does have to do with is a country in which the population is going through the roof chiefly because of open-door immigration and the fact that the M4 is not as navigable as it used to be Getty Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he wanted to ban immigrants with HIV from Britain Mr Farage has used his platform as Ukip leader call for people with HIV to be banned from coming to Britain. Asked in an interview with Newsweek Europe in October 2014 who he thought should be allowed to come to the UK, he said: People who do not have HIV, to be frank. Thats a good start. And people with a skill. He also repeated similar comments in the 2015 general election leadership debates Getty Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he defended the use of a racial slur against Chinese people Defending one of Ukips candidates, who used the word ch**ky to describe a Chinese person, Mr Farage said: If you and your mates were going out for a Chinese, what do you say you're going for?" When he was told by the presented that he honestly would not use the slur, Mr Farage replied: A lot would Lintao Zhang/Getty Images Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he said parts of Britain were like a foreign land The Ukip leader used his 2014 conference speech to declare parts of Britain as being like a foreign land. He told his audience in Torquay that parts of the country were unrecognisable because of the number of foreigners there. Mr Farage has also previously said he felt uncomfortable when people spoke other language on a train Screengrab Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he said the British army should be deployed to France At the height of trouble at Britains Calais border Mr Farage proposed a novel solution. The Ukip leader called for the British army to be sent to France to put down a migrant rebellion. In all civil emergencies like this we have an army, we have a bit of a Territorial Army as well and we have a very, very overburdened police force and border agency, he said. If in a crisis to make sure weve actually got the manpower to check lorries coming in, to stop people illegally coming to Britain, if in those circumstances we can use the army or other forces then why not AFP/Getty Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he said breastfeeding women should sit in the corner Mr Farage sparked protests from mothers after he told women to sit on the corner if they wanted to breastfeed their children. I think that given that some people feel very embarrassed by it, it isnt too difficult to breastfeed a baby in a way that's not openly ostentatious, Mr Farage said. He added: "Or perhaps sit in the corner, or whatever it might be AFP/Getty Images Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he said the gender pay gap exists because women are worth less At a Q&A on the European Union in January 2014 Mr Farage said there was no discrimination against women causing the gender pay gap. Instead, he said, women were paid less because they were simply worth far less than many of their male counterparts. A woman who has a client base, has a child and takes two or three years off - she is worth far less to her employer when she comes back than when she went away because that client base won't be stuck as rigidly to her portfolio, he said Getty Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he said he actually couldnt guarantee 350m to the NHS after Brexit During the EU referendum campaign the Leave side pledged to spend 350 million a week on the National Health Service claiming that this is what the UK sends to Brussels. Nigel Farage didnt speak out against this figure and also pledged to spend EU cash on the health service and other public services himself. Then the day of the election result he suddenly changed his tone, saying he couldnt guarantee the cash for the NHS and that to pledge to do so was a mistake Getty
In 2014 the then Ukip leader protested about being snubbed from the Cenotaph wreath-laying ceremony on Remembrance Sunday, suggesting that he cared very deepy about attending.
We're not invited and I could say to you that personally I would like to be because this is a subject that I care very deeply about, he told LBC Radio at the time.
Mr Farage gave a speech during one of Mr Trumps campaign rallies and has since welcomed his election, arguing that he would be a good president. Downing Street this morning dismissed Mr Farages close contact with Mr Trump, telling reporters that there was no third person in the special relationship.
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Downing Street has slapped down Nigel Farage after his visit to see Donald Trump, by declaring there will be no third person in the Prime Ministers relationship with the President-elect.
After Mr Farage became the first British politician to meet Mr Trump, a No 10 spokeswoman said the US leader told Theresa May he wanted their relationship to be akin to Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatchers.
Recommended Theresa May trade speech to reach out to Donald Trump after tough week
The spokeswoman added: I don't remember there being any third person in that relationship.
The remark also has echoes of Princess Dianas famous complaint that Camilla Parker-Bowles was a third person in her crowded marriage with the Prince of Wales.
The put-down came after an ecstatic Mr Farage appeared in pictures with Mr Trump following their meeting in New York and then did television interviews telling Ms May it was time to mend some fences with the US leader.
It also followed claims, not denied by Mr Farage, that he had spoken with ministers about serving as intermediary to try and improve relations with the new US leader.
But Ms Mays official spokeswoman said the Government already has well-established channels of communication with Mr Trumps team.
Nigel Farage the first UK politician to meet Trump since election
She pointed out that in their phone conversation the President-elect had invited the Prime Minister to Washington and voiced hopes of a Reagan/Thatcher-style relationship, which had no third person.
Princess Diana complained in 1995 that in her marriage with Prince Charles there were three of us and so it was a bit crowded.
The No 10 spokeswoman also joked that there was no need for Mr Farage to inform Downing Street of what happened in the meeting because he had already undertaken so many interviews on its content.
After spending more than an hour with the President-elect, the interim Ukip leader urged Ms May to stop running him down and instead use his closeness to Mr Trump to put the national interest first.
Donald Trump: Is the President-elect already breaking campaign promises?
The Ukip man said: The problem is that No 10 keep on putting out press statements saying that I'm irrelevant.
I would have thought that in the national interest I might just be able to broker a coming together of these parties that dont know each other at all.
Nigel Farage's most controversial moments Show all 12 1 /12 Nigel Farage's most controversial moments Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he unveiled that 'breaking point' poster during the referendum Mr Farage was accused of deploying Nazi-style propaganda when he unveiled a poster showing Syrian refugees travelling to Europe under the next Breaking point. Users on social media were quick to compare the advert to a Nazi propaganda film with similar visuals and featuring Jewish refugees. The poster was particularly controversial because it was unveiled the morning of the killing of Labour MP Jo Cox Rex Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he said hed be concerned if his neighbours were Romanian In May 2014 Mr Farage was accused of a racial slur against Romanians after he suggested he would be concerned living next to a house of them. I was asked if a group of Romanian men moved in next to you, would you be concerned? And if you lived in London, I think you would be, he told LBC radio during an interview. Asked whether he would also object to living next to German children, he said: You know the difference Bongarts/Getty Images Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he said the EU campaign was won 'without a bullet being fired' Nigel Farage has said the next Prime Minister has to be a Leave supporter AFP/Getty Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he resigned as Ukip leader and came back days later After failing to win the seat of South Thanet at the general election, Nigel Farage stepped down as Ukip leader as he had promised to do during the campaign. Days later on 11 May he un-resigned and said he would stay after being convinced by supporters within the party. Well see how long his resignation lasts this time AP/Matt Dunham Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he blamed immigrants for making him late Mr Farage turned up late to a 25-a-head meet the leader style event in Port Talbot, Wales in December 2014. Asked why he was late, he blamed immigrants. It took me six hours and 15 minutes to get here - it should have taken three-and-a-half to four, he said. That has nothing to do with professionalism, what it does have to do with is a country in which the population is going through the roof chiefly because of open-door immigration and the fact that the M4 is not as navigable as it used to be Getty Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he wanted to ban immigrants with HIV from Britain Mr Farage has used his platform as Ukip leader call for people with HIV to be banned from coming to Britain. Asked in an interview with Newsweek Europe in October 2014 who he thought should be allowed to come to the UK, he said: People who do not have HIV, to be frank. Thats a good start. And people with a skill. He also repeated similar comments in the 2015 general election leadership debates Getty Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he defended the use of a racial slur against Chinese people Defending one of Ukips candidates, who used the word ch**ky to describe a Chinese person, Mr Farage said: If you and your mates were going out for a Chinese, what do you say you're going for?" When he was told by the presented that he honestly would not use the slur, Mr Farage replied: A lot would Lintao Zhang/Getty Images Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he said parts of Britain were like a foreign land The Ukip leader used his 2014 conference speech to declare parts of Britain as being like a foreign land. He told his audience in Torquay that parts of the country were unrecognisable because of the number of foreigners there. Mr Farage has also previously said he felt uncomfortable when people spoke other language on a train Screengrab Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he said the British army should be deployed to France At the height of trouble at Britains Calais border Mr Farage proposed a novel solution. The Ukip leader called for the British army to be sent to France to put down a migrant rebellion. In all civil emergencies like this we have an army, we have a bit of a Territorial Army as well and we have a very, very overburdened police force and border agency, he said. If in a crisis to make sure weve actually got the manpower to check lorries coming in, to stop people illegally coming to Britain, if in those circumstances we can use the army or other forces then why not AFP/Getty Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he said breastfeeding women should sit in the corner Mr Farage sparked protests from mothers after he told women to sit on the corner if they wanted to breastfeed their children. I think that given that some people feel very embarrassed by it, it isnt too difficult to breastfeed a baby in a way that's not openly ostentatious, Mr Farage said. He added: "Or perhaps sit in the corner, or whatever it might be AFP/Getty Images Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he said the gender pay gap exists because women are worth less At a Q&A on the European Union in January 2014 Mr Farage said there was no discrimination against women causing the gender pay gap. Instead, he said, women were paid less because they were simply worth far less than many of their male counterparts. A woman who has a client base, has a child and takes two or three years off - she is worth far less to her employer when she comes back than when she went away because that client base won't be stuck as rigidly to her portfolio, he said Getty Nigel Farage's most controversial moments When he said he actually couldnt guarantee 350m to the NHS after Brexit During the EU referendum campaign the Leave side pledged to spend 350 million a week on the National Health Service claiming that this is what the UK sends to Brussels. Nigel Farage didnt speak out against this figure and also pledged to spend EU cash on the health service and other public services himself. Then the day of the election result he suddenly changed his tone, saying he couldnt guarantee the cash for the NHS and that to pledge to do so was a mistake Getty
Downing Street insisted the outgoing Ukip chief would have no role in the Governments dealings with the incoming US administration, but Tory peer and former trade envoy Lord Marland said Mr Farage could be used as a salesman.
The view was in marked contrast to prominent Tory Crispin Blunt who insisted there is no need for Nigel, while former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith added: Nigel Farage is just trying to get attention. This is an ego trip not a diplomatic one.
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The Government has rejected calls by two parliamentary committees for it to stop the sale of British bombs to Saudi Arabias armed forces in Yemen.
Saudi forces have been widely accused of committing war crimes during the campaign in the country, where reports on the ground suggest they have blown up international hospitals, funerals, schools, and weddings.
Despite the reported incidents and the worsening humanitarian situation in the country since the bombardment began, the UK has signed off 3.3 billion in arms sales to the country since the start of the offensive.
Recommended Labour MPs rebel against call for UN probe into Saudi Arabia
The country has been overtaken by famine with 370,000 children suffering from severe malnutrition and 1.5 million are going hungry overall, according to Unicef figures released in October. Saudi led-coalition air strikes are reported to have hit food factories processing products including potatoes and sugar.
Two committees of MPs, the International Development and Business Committee, which sit on a parliamentary super committee called the Committee on Arms Export Control (CAEC), released a joint report calling for the suspension of arms sales until a UN investigation had been conducted into the alleged atrocities.
A third constituent committee of CAEC, the Foreign Affairs Committee, did not endorse the report, and said it would be better for the British courts to decide the legality of the sales with a legal challenge launched by Campaign Against the Arms Trade set to be heard in the coming months.
The Government however rejected the call for the suspension of sales.
We disagree with this recommendation. The Government is confident in its robust case-by-case assessment and is satisfied that extant licences for Saudi Arabia are compliant with the UKs export licensing criteria, the Government said in an official response.
We continue to assess export licence applications for Saudi Arabia on a case-by-case basis against the Consolidated EU and National Arms Export licensingCriteria, taking account of all relevant factors at the time of the application.
The key test for our continued arms exports is whether there is a clear risk that those exports might be used in a commission of a serious violation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL).
A licence will not be issued for any country, including Saudi Arabia, if to do so would be inconsistent with any provision of the mandatory Criteria, including where we assess there is a clear risk that the items might be used in the commission of a serious violation of IHL.
The response was issued jointly Dr Liam Fox, Boris Johnson, Sir Michael Fallon, and Priti Patel.
A man looks at cows killed by a Saudi-led air strike at a dairy farm in Bajil in Yemen's western province of Houdieda (Reuters)
The Government has repeatedly said that Saudi Arabia is best placed to investigate its own alleged war crimes. The autocracy has absolved itself of any wrongdoing.
The committees had recommended that the UK suspend licences for arms exports to Saudi Arabia, capable of being used in Yemen, pending the results of an independent, United Nations-led inquiry into reports of violations of IHL, and issue no further licences.
In addition, the UK Government should investigate whether any licences so far issued have led to the transfer of weapons which have been used in breach of IHL.
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
Andrew Smith of Campaign Against the Arms Trade told The Independent: "The government is in denial about the devastating impact of the Saudi-led bombardment and its own complicity in it. This is a very weak response and makes clear that arms company profits are still being prioritised over the human rights and lives of Yemeni people.
"The evidence from the UN and others has been overwhelming, yet the government has refused to act. Johnson, May and their colleagues could stop the arms sales right now, but instead they are offering uncritical military and political support while helping arms companies like BAE to sell even more weapons."
Saudi Arabia is intervening in Yemen in the side of the internationally-recognised Government, which no longer controls the countrys capital. It is ostensibly attacking Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, though large numbers of civilians casualties have been reported.
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Bernie Sanders has given his support to those protesting against Donald Trump and has questioned the Electoral College system.
During an interview with USA Today, the US senator from Vermont said it was time for a serious discussion on a system that gives someone the presidency despite them not getting the most votes.
In a direct address to those who were campaigning, Mr Sanders said he understood why there was disagreement with Mr Trump, and said that people did not want "to go back" to echoes of past discrimination and bigotry
People are angry. People are upset. And they want to express their point of view that they are very frightened, in very, very strong disagreement with Mr Trump, who has made bigotry the cornerstone of his campaign, Mr Sanders told USA Today.
I think that people are saying, Mr Trump, we have come too far in this country fighting discrimination and bigotry. Were not going back. And if youre going to continue that effort, youre going to have to take us on.
We may want to take a look at the whole Electoral College, which is seating a man for president who didnt get the most votes. This is something we need a serious discussion on, he added.
Protests against Trump surge in cities across US for second night
Mr Sanders was also asked if he thought he would have been able to beat Mr Trump if he had received the Democratic Party nomination over Hilary Clinton.
The answer is, I dont know. Nobody knows. I certainly wish I had had that opportunity. Some of the polls out there suggest that might have been the case, Mr Sanders said.
World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty
It remains unclear if Mr Sanders will be running for another term in the Senate in 2018 but when asked he said: Probably, but I havent made that decision.
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President-elect Donald Trump was reportedly surprised at the breadth of the presidents responsibilities after his first meeting with Barack Obama, according to reports.
The Republican ran a campaign as an outsider, pledging to drain the swamp of alleged corruption in Washington. Unlike all other US presidents to come before him, Mr Trump has no political or military experience.
But in his first meeting with Mr Obama - a man he had previously called the worst president ever - Mr Trump was reportedly surprised by how much work the presidency involved.
Trump: We're going to deport millions
The President-elect was surprised by the scope of what he would have to do in his new job, according to inside sources cited by the Wall Street Journal.
The newspaper also reported that Mr Trump was unaware he would have to replace the entire presidential staff upon taking office.
As a result, Mr Obama is expected to spend more time than usual guiding Mr Trump into the role.
While Mr Obama has said he hoped Mr Trumps presidency would be a success, many Americans feel differently.
Protests continued for the fifth consecutive day against the controversial President-elect. Demonstrations were held in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Philadelphia and elsewhere.
Organisers in Manhattan carried signs in English and Spanish bearing slogans such as, "Hate won't make us great", and chanted, "We are here to stay."
More than 1,000 people joined that march, which started mid-afternoon and extended into the evening.
Several hundred protesters also circled Philadelphia's City Hall on Sunday and then marched down Market Street to Independence Mall, carrying signs and chanting "Donald Trump has got to go!" and "This is what democracy looks like."
In Los Angeles, several hundred people gathered outside CNN's regional headquarters ahead of Mr Trump's first TV interview as President-elect on 60 Minutes.
Hundreds more including many families with children, marched in San Francisco from Golden Gate Park to Ocean Beach chanting "Love trumps hate!" On Saturday, an estimated 8,000 had marched through the city's downtown area.
Elsewhere in California, about 800 people marched through Sacramento and hundreds others formed a human chain around the nearly 3.5-mile perimeter of Oakland's Lake Merritt.
In Oregon, police said they arrested 71 people late on Saturday and early on Sunday during anti-Trump protests downtown.
Additional reporting by Agencies.
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Berlin is on course to at least semi-legalising marijuana after a cross-party movement agreed on a ground-breaking pilot scheme.
The capitals Social Democrats, the Greens and the Left Party have agreed on a controlled distribution of cannabis to adults project.
Cannabis possession is illegal in Germany, although people found with less than 15g are often not prosecuted.
Various German newspapers cited Green politician Benedikt Lux, on the day of Donald Trumps US-election victory, as saying a scientifically accompanied pilot project for the controlled delivery of cannabis was planned.
Berlins Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg district has previously tried to legalise controlled cannabis dealing, but has been thwarted by the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices.
The city is one of 16 federal states in Germany with the authority to introduce its own laws.
In pictures: Uruguay's Senate creates world's first national marketplace for legal marijuana Show all 10 1 /10 In pictures: Uruguay's Senate creates world's first national marketplace for legal marijuana In pictures: Uruguay's Senate creates world's first national marketplace for legal marijuana Uruguay-5.jpg EPA In pictures: Uruguay's Senate creates world's first national marketplace for legal marijuana Uruguay-9.jpg EPA In pictures: Uruguay's Senate creates world's first national marketplace for legal marijuana Uruguay-8.jpg AP In pictures: Uruguay's Senate creates world's first national marketplace for legal marijuana Uruguay-1.jpg AP In pictures: Uruguay's Senate creates world's first national marketplace for legal marijuana Uruguay-2.jpg AP In pictures: Uruguay's Senate creates world's first national marketplace for legal marijuana Uruguay-3.jpg AP In pictures: Uruguay's Senate creates world's first national marketplace for legal marijuana Uruguay-4.jpg AP In pictures: Uruguay's Senate creates world's first national marketplace for legal marijuana Uruguay-6.jpg Getty Images In pictures: Uruguay's Senate creates world's first national marketplace for legal marijuana Uruguay-7.jpg AP In pictures: Uruguay's Senate creates world's first national marketplace for legal marijuana Uruguay-10.jpg Reuters
The move follows decriminalisation of cannabis in Nevada, California and Massachusetts, passed in votes on 8 November, that allows over-21s to possess up to an ounce of marijuana and to cultivate up to six plants for personal use.
Max Plenert of the German Hemp Association, as quoted by broadcaster Deutsche Welle, said: The legal code is decided at the federal level, and this is about a local attempt to try to do things differently.
This is a pilot project with limits. Its an attempt to advance the discussion about how things could be different.
4/20 London - Should marijuana be legal?
It wont have a massive effect on the market for drugs as a whole. But as with other pilot projects concerning drugs, its a chance to show politicians and the press that the topic isnt such a big deal. And that could kick-start larger changes.
Cannabis contains cancer-causing chemicals, is associated with psychotic illness including schizophrenia, can disrupt sperm production and ovulation, and can harm unborn babies according to the NHS.
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Representatives of Israels Knesset have given their approval to what is known as the muezzin bill banning religious leaders from using loudspeakers or public address systems to summon worshippers for prayers.
The Ministerial Committee for Legislation debated the bill on Sunday before authorising it for a parliamentary vote. It is likely to be passed, since it has the backing of the countrys ruling coalition.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his support in his weekly cabinet meeting, saying that citizens of all religions have complained about excessive noise from muezzins, mosque officials who traditionally call worshippers to prayers from the buildings minaret.
Israel is committed to freedom for all religions, but is also responsible for protecting its citizens from noise, he said.
While the bill is primarily targeted at curbing noise pollution, critics have noted the proposed law contains a clause which says that freedom of religion should not be harmful to quality of life nor used to convey religious or nationalist messages, and sometimes even words of incitement, which they say is targeted at Muslims.
During the debate head of the Joint List Arab coalition party Ayman Odeh said the bill was designed to harm freedom of religion for Muslims.
There are already noise laws that apply to mosques and it is clear that the whole purpose of the bill is to label mosques as problematic, he added.
Israel: From independence to intifada Show all 7 1 /7 Israel: From independence to intifada Israel: From independence to intifada 26973.bin Israel: From independence to intifada 26974.bin Israel: From independence to intifada 26975.bin Israel: From independence to intifada 26976.bin Israel: From independence to intifada 26977.bin Israel: From independence to intifada 26985.bin Robert Capa/Magnum Israel: From independence to intifada 26986.bin Robert Capa/Magnum
Similar measures have been proposed by Israeli politicians several times in recent years. A 2011 Knesset-commissioned report found that several European countries, as well as Cairo and some cities in Saudi Arabia, currently impose decibel-level limits on the muezzins call.
Spokesperson for Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas said that Palestinians completely reject the proposal.
Around 20 per cent of Israels population is Arab, making the call to prayer a familiar sound across the country.
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The Legatum Institute, a policy research group, has released its annual "Global Prosperity Index," a major survey that ranks countries based on factors including national wealth, education levels, and safety.
One key factor the survey considers is governance, which is broken down into three categories: effective governance, democracy and political participation, and the rule of law. Legatum measured these variables by considering things like voter turnout, legislative independence, and the number of women in parliament.
While European countries dominate the list, there is also room for a handful of countries on the other side of the Atlantic.
Take a look at the countries that made the top of the list.
17. Japan Japan is the only Asian country to make it into top 17 countries for governance. It functions under a constitutional monarchy where the Emperor serves mainly ceremonial duties.
(Wikimedia (Wikimedia)
16. Belgium As well as being as the headquarters of the EU and NATO, Belgium is ranked as one of the best-governed countries on Earth. It functions under a federal political system, whereby regions have significant powers.
15. Austria The German-speaking country is a non-mover, having come 15th in Legatum's last index. It is due to elect a new president in December.
14. Ireland Ireland is a parliamentary democracy. The parliament is referred to as the Oireachtas and is headed by an elected leader known as the Taoiseach.
13. Australia Australia is one of the few non-European states to make the top 17. It has dropped three places since last year's rankings.
12. Iceland with a population of just over 320,000 people, the Nordic island nation is in Legatum's top 17 countries for governance for the second year running.
11. United Kingdom One of the oldest democracies in the world, the United Kingdom just misses out on the top 10. Members of Parliament meet at Westminster, London.
10. Germany The west European state is a major power-broker in the European Union and ranks highly for governance as an independent entity too. It also ranked highly for economic quality and natural environment.
9. Canada The country in the northern half of North America makes the list, while its neighbour the USA does not. Canada is currently led by liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
8. Luxembourg Famous among other things for being a tax haven, Luxembourg scores highly in the governance index. It comes first for personal freedom and health, making it one of the highest-scoring on the overall index.
7. Denmark Denmark comes high up the list, although behind several of its Scandinavian counterparts. Its national parliament is called the Folketing, which translates as 'the people's thing.'
6. Switzerland The federal European republic comes first on the list for education, but also ranks highly for governance. Its parliament has two chambers, and all 246 members of both houses' chambers are directly elected by the people.
(Wikipedia / CC 3.0 (Wikipedia / CC 3.0)
5. Sweden Sweden has fallen one place since last year's index but still ranks as one of the best-governed countries on Earth.
4. Netherlands The small western European country comes high up the list. The Hague, where its parliament sits, is home to over 150 international organisations, including the International Criminal Court.
3. Norway The Scandinavian nation ranks higher in governance than in any other sub-index. Its parliament building, where Prime Minister Erna Solberg currently leads, 'the Stortinget,' translates as 'the great thing' or 'the great council.'
2. New Zealand The island nation in the Pacific Ocean is runner-up for the second year in a row. It also ranked highly for its open market, freedom, and strong sense of society.
1. Finland Perhaps unsurprisingly, a Nordic state tops the list. Finland tops the list, climbing four places from last year's index. The country's current prime minister is Juha Sipila.
Parliament in Helsinki, Finland, where the government is to tighten sexual offence laws (Wikipedia / CC 3.0)
Read more:
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How Uber became the world's most valuable startup
These 4 things could trigger the next crisis in Europe
Read the original article on Business Insider UK. 2016. Follow Business Insider UK on Twitter.
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Looking across the English Channel from mainland Europe, it is clear David Camerons decision to impose a binary choice on the British people, in the form of a referendum on the UKs membership of the EU, has divided the UK. The overwhelming emotion to the result of the referendum in Brussels and elsewhere in Europe is sadness. The European Union is far from perfect, but for many of us it is the worlds greatest peace project. A peace bought about by in part by the sacrifice of many British citizens during the Second World War.
Contrary to reports in some parts of the British media, I do not have the sense that European politicians will not now seek revenge on the UK for wanting to leave us. At the same time, given the current make-up of the British Government, we must recognise it is unlikely that the UK will obtain a better deal as a former member than existing EU members have.
Brexit may mean Brexit, but what does this mean in practice for the millions of UK citizens living in continental Europe, or the millions of EU citizens living, studying or working in Britain? Among the powerful emotions provoked by the referendum anger, regret and denial was a sense of bereavement. Many British people consider themselves European and value their European citizenship, which struck a chord with me.
Theresa May might use fast-track process to sidestep full scrutiny of Brexit plans, minister signals
It is for this reason that I drafted an amendment to a draft report by the European Parliaments Brexit negotiator Guy Verhofstadt, on possible changes to the current institutional set-up of the European Union. The idea is simply to guarantee those who want it some of the same rights they had as full EU citizens, including the right of residence in the EU, and to be able to vote in European elections and be represented by an MEP. Since this idea hit the headlines, I have been taken aback by the level of support that I have received for the proposal. Thousands of people from Britain have in touch with me to ask what they can do to make this a reality.
Currently, EU treaties specify that European citizenship derives directly from the national citizenship of its member states. However, it also specifies that citizenship of the Union is additional to and does not replace national citizenship. Creating an individual and voluntary citizenship to the Union would thus require treaty change, not in the least to specify its rights and duties, but it would not infringe upon national citizenship.
Brexit Concerns Show all 26 1 /26 Brexit Concerns Brexit Concerns Brexit will put British patients at 'back of the queue' for new drugs Brexit will put British patients at the back of the queue for vital new drugs, the Government has been warned forcing them to wait up to two years longer A medicines regulator has raised the alarm over a likely decision to pull out of the European Medicines Agency (EMA), as well as the EU itself. ealth Secretary Jeremy Hunt dropped the bombshell , when he said he expected the UK would quit the EMA because it is subject to rulings by the European Court of Justice. Getty Images Brexit Concerns London to lose status as 'gateway to Europe' for banks One of Germanys top banking regulators has warned that London could lose its status as gateway to Europe for the banking sector after Britain quits the European trading bloc. Andreas Dombret, who is an executive board member for the BundesbankGermanys central banktold a private meeting of German businesses and banks earlier this week in Frankfurt that even if banking rules were equivalent between the UK and the rest of the EU, that was still miles away from [Britain having] access to the single market, the BBC reports. Jason Hawkes Brexit Concerns Exodus The number of financial sector professionals in Britain and continental Europe looking for jobs in Ireland rocketed in the months after the UK voted to leave the European Union Shutterstock Brexit Concerns Brexit is making FTSE 100 executives richer Pay packages of many FTSE 100 chief executive officers are partly tied to how well share prices are doing rather than the CEOs performance -- and some stocks are soaring. ritish equities got a boost since the June vote because the likes of Rio Tinto, Smiths Group and WPP generate most sales abroad and earn a fortune when they convert these revenues back into the weakened pound. Sterlings fall also made UK stocks more affordable for overseas investors. Rex Brexit Concerns Theresa May: UK to leave single market Theresa May has said the UK "cannot possibly" remain within the European single market, as staying in it would mean "not leaving the EU at all". Getty Brexit Concerns Lead campaigner Gina Miller and her team outside the High Court Getty Brexit Concerns Raymond McCord holds up his newly issued Irish passport alongside his British passport outside the High Court in Belfast following a judges dismissal of the UK's first legal challenges to Brexit PA wire Brexit Concerns SDLP leader Colum Eastwood leaving the High Court in Belfast following a judges dismissal of the UK's first legal challenges to Brexit PA wire Brexit Concerns Migrants with luggage walk past a graffiti on a wall as they leave the 'Jungle' migrant camp, as part of a major three-day operation planned to clear the camp in Calais Getty Brexit Concerns Migrants leave messages on their tents in the Jungle migrant camp Getty Brexit Concerns The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (Adra) which distributes approximately 700 meals daily in the northern Paris camp states that it is noticing a spike in new migrant arrivals this week, potentially linked the the Calais 'jungle' camp closure - with around 1000 meals distributed today EPA Brexit Concerns Migrant workers pick apples at Stocks Farm in Suckley, Britain Reuters Brexit Concerns Many farmers across the country are voicing concerns that Brexit could be a dangerous step into the unknown for the farming industry Getty Brexit Concerns Bank of England governor Mark Carney who said the long-term outlook for the UK economy is positive, but growth was slowing in the wake of the Brexit vote PA Brexit Concerns The Dow Jones industrial average closed down over 600 points on the news with markets around the globe pluninging Getty Brexit Concerns Immigration officers deal with each member of the public seeking entry into the United Kingdom but on average, 10 a day are refused entry at this London airport and between 2008 and 2009, 33,100 people were detained at the airport for mainly passport irregularities Getty Brexit Concerns A number of global investment giants have threatened to move their European operations out of London if Brexit proves to have a negative impact on their businesses Getty Brexit Concerns Following the possibility of a Brexit the UK would be released from its renewable energy targets under the EU Renewable Energy Directive and from EU state aid restrictions, potentially giving the government more freedom both in the design and phasing out of renewable energy support regimes Getty Brexit Concerns A woman looking at a chart showing the drop in the pound (Sterling) against the US Dollar in London after Britain voted to leave the EU Getty Brexit Concerns Young protesters outside the Houses of Parliament in Westminster, to protest against the United Kingdom's decision to leave the EU following the referendum Getty Brexit Concerns Applications from Northern Ireland citizens for Irish Passports has soared to a record high after the UK Voted in favour of Leaving the EU Getty Brexit Concerns NFU Vice President Minette Batters with Secretary of State, Andrea Leadsome at the National Farmers Union (NFU) took machinery, produce, farmers and staff to Westminster to encourage Members of Parliament to back British farming, post Brexit Getty Brexit Concerns The latest reports released by the UK Cabinet Office warn that expats would lose a range of specific rights to live, to work and to access pensions, healthcare and public services. The same reports added that UK citizens abroad would not be able to assume that these rights will be guaranteed in the future Getty Brexit Concerns A British resident living in Spain asks questions during an informative Brexit talk by the "Brexpats in Spain" group, about Spanish legal issues to become Spanish citizens, at the town hall in Benalmadena, Spain Reuters Brexit Concerns The collapse of Great Britain appears to have been greatly exaggerated given the late summer crowds visiting city museums, hotels, and other important tourist attractions Getty Brexit Concerns The U.K. should maintain European Union regulations covering everything from working hours to chemicals until after the government sets out its plans for Brexit, said British manufacturers anxious to avoid a policy vacuum and safeguard access to their biggest export market Getty
An associate membership could provide all the rights of full European citizenship, for example the right to freedom of movement, access to healthcare in the EU and the right to reside in EU member states. Following the reciprocal principle of no taxation without representation, these associate citizens would pay some form of annual membership fee directly into the EU budget. In return, EU associate citizens would be able to stand and vote in European elections via trans-national European lists, which we hope will replace the vacant seats of the 73 British MEPs who will be departing in 2019.
I have no doubt it would have been better for the UK to stay with us in the European Union. But if Brexit means Brexit, then I see no reason why the EU should not, in principle, offer an individual EU associate citizenship to UK citizens who wish to maintain their European identity.
Charles Goerens is an MEP for the Democratic Party of Luxembourg at the European Parliament
Activity on housing projects also rose at a sharp and accelerated pace during October
Growth in the Irish construction industry has hit a seven-month high, new figures indicate.
Activity, new orders and employment all increased at faster rates in October, according to the Ulster Bank Construction Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI).
Companies also increased their purchasing activity, and confidence over future output also improved from September.
Simon Barry, a chief economist with Ulster Bank said: "Overall, the October results paint an encouraging picture of recent developments at Irish construction firms.
"Solid readings across the headline, new orders and employment indicators highlight that momentum behind the sector's recovery continues to look strong."
The PMI, a seasonally-adjusted snapshot designed to track changes, found t he commercial construction category was the best performer for the sixth successive month.
Activity on housing projects also rose at a sharp and accelerated pace during October.
The rate of new order growth was substantial, having quickened for the fifth consecutive month to the strongest since February.
As a result, c onstruction firms were encouraged to increase their staffing levels.
The rise in new business in October was also a key factor behind an expansion of purchasing activity by construction firms - among the sharpest since the survey began in mid-2000.
Meanwhile, higher demand for inputs led suppliers to increase their charges, and also resulted in delivery delays. The rise in input costs faced by construction firms during October was sharp and the fastest since August 2015.
Suppliers' delivery times lengthened at a much more marked pace than was recorded in September.
Business sentiment ticked up in October and remained strongly positive, with about two thirds of respondents predicting an increase in activity over the next 12 months.
Among the factors supporting optimism were predictions of improving market conditions and a good pipeline of work, the survey said.
Mr Barry added: "I mportantly, construction firms are continuing to benefit from robust increases in new business levels, with the new orders index rising to its highest level since February following a fifth consecutive monthly acceleration in October.
"Firms continue to report a strengthening in client demand amid a general improvement in economic conditions as an important contributor to the ongoing uplift in new business volumes.
"In turn, the healthy expansion of new orders continues to underpin increased demand for construction workers.
"The employment index rose sharply last month, with the pace of hiring accelerating to its fastest in eight months as almost one third of firms noted a rise in employment."
Ireland's Foreign Minister has pledged to underline the country's commitment to the European Union during a visit to the Middle East.
Charlie Flanagan is in Abu Dhabi for the second day of his three-day tour of the Gulf, leading an Enterprise Ireland trade mission.
He said: "My visit is timely as it offers an opportunity to bring clear messages to important partners in the Gulf about Ireland's position in the wake of the UK vote to leave the European Union.
"I made clear that Ireland will remain a strong and active member of the Union."
The minister is expected to meet with the UAE's minister for foreign affairs, Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and with the country's education minister, Hussain Ibrahim al Hammadi.
He will also meet with Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
On Saturday, in Riyadh, he held a series of bilateral meetings to discuss a range of issues including the stalled Middle East peace process and the humanitarian impact of conflicts in Yemen and Syria.
"These are issues of concern to the Irish people," added Mr Flanagan.
"With the minister of state for education, I had an opportunity to discuss the possibility of increasing the number of Saudi students coming to study in Ireland's universities and institutes of technology around the country."
He also took part in a number of commercial events to support Irish companies.
"I welcome the opportunity to see first-rate Irish companies at work, and to support them in their efforts to secure new business and so support jobs at home," said the minister.
Michael Noonan said Brexit presented an important challenge for the Irish economy
Finance Minister Michael Noonan is expected to offer reassurances about the country's enduring appeal when he meets potential investors in the United States this week.
The visit was planned following the outcome of the UK referendum on Brexit, which Mr Noonan said presented an important challenge for the Irish economy.
As well as representatives from large US companies which have bases in Ireland, the minister will also meet US Treasury Secretary Jack Lew and officials from the IMF and World Bank.
Mr Noonan said: "Ireland has strong ties with the US and this is most evident in terms of inward investment from American companies.
"I meet regularly with current and prospective investors from the US and this visit will allow me to emphasise Ireland's attractiveness as a destination for foreign direct investment following the UK's decision to exit the European Union.
"Companies invest in Ireland for a broad range of reasons, not least to access the world's largest economic bloc, the European Union.
"As a common law, English speaking and business friendly jurisdiction we will continue to be an attractive destination for US companies.
"We will continue to look outwardly and engage with investors with a view to encouraging substantive investment in Ireland which creates high-quality employment for our people."
Last month Foreign Minister Charlie Flanagan expressed concern after Stormont First Minister Arlene Foster accused Dublin officials of poaching foreign investment and of talking down the Northern Ireland economy.
The houseboat apparently drifted across the Atlantic from Canada (Ballyglass Coast Guard Unit/PA)
A makeshift solar-powered houseboat has washed up on a beach after apparently drifting across the Atlantic Ocean from Canada.
Authorities say the owner was intending to sail on the "floating caravan" but was talked out of it before it broke loose from its mooring in Newfoundland within the last few months.
Locals in Co Mayo were startled by the unusual sighting on Cross Beach, which sparked an emergency rescue mission by lifeboat and coast guard crews.
While no-one was found aboard the 20ft timber and polystyrene boat, a message scrawled inside gave a clue to its origins.
"I, Rick Small, donate this structure to a homeless youth to give them a better life that Newfoundlanders choose not to do!" it said.
"No rent, no mortgage, no hydro."
Rick Small is an eco-adventurer from Ontario who travelled 7,000 kilometres (4,375 miles) across Canada, from British Columbia to Newfoundland, on a solar-powered tricycle.
The Irish Coast Guard have been in contact with their Canadian counterparts in Halifax.
"They said the owner was hoping to cross the Atlantic in it, but they managed to discourage him," a spokesman said.
"It was last seen in Portugal Cove in Newfoundland during the summer and it broke loose.
"The Halifax authorities were amazed it made it to Ireland and was in one piece."
Michael Hurst, of the Ballyglass Coast Guard Unit in Co Mayo, was one of the first at the scene when the vessel washed ashore.
"I didn't know what to think, I was just concerned about safety and securing it," he said.
"Then I thought: where in the name of God did this come from and who built it?"
Mr Hurst described the houseboat as like a "floating caravan" made from timber off-cuts, polystyrene, spray foam and Perspex windows with solar panels.
It is around 20ft long, 10ft high and about 12ft wide, he said.
"I wouldn't like to go out on it," he added. "But if you were homeless, it would be like a castle."
Mr Hurst went to the scene on Sunday evening after alerting Malin Head Coast Guard to the sighting.
Crews used ropes to secure the vessel, which will now be handed over to Mayo County Council.
Locals are already talking about restoring it for use as an attraction on the Wild Atlantic Way tourist route.
There is no justification for claims by Northern Ireland First Minister Arlene Foster that the Republic is trying to "poach investment" and undermine the North's economy in the wake of Brexit, the head of the IDA has insisted.
In his first public comments on the issue since Ms Foster's remarks last month, Martin Shanahan told the Irish Independent that he had no idea what Ms Foster was talking about.
"I don't believe there's any justification," the IDA boss said.
"In truth, I don't know to what the First Minister is referring."
Ms Foster told the DUP party conference last month that Irish Government representatives are sent out around the world to "talk down" the North's economy, and "to attempt to poach our investors".
She claimed a hard border existed in the mind of the Irish Government.
Foreign Affairs minister Charlie Flanagan expressed surprise at the comments, which he deemed unhelpful.
Mr Shanahan also dismissed the claim.
"Obviously the UK is a competitor, Northern Ireland is a competitor, but as a source of foreign direct investment (FDI) it is not something that the IDA is focused on," Mr Shanahan said. "We are focused on Europe, we are focused on Asia, we are focused on the US."
The DUP, along with the UUP, boycotted the Government's all-island civic dialogue on Brexit earlier this month, which Mr Flanagan branded a "missed opportunity".
The Government has been treading carefully in its efforts to lure jobs and investment from the UK following its June Brexit vote.
France, Germany, the Netherlands and Ireland are the main countries hoping to provide new homes for thousands of UK financial workers who might be moved if their employers shift operations out of London in advance of the UK leaving the European Union.
Citigroup has denied a report that it is planning to move up to 900 jobs from London to Dublin as part of its Brexit contingency plans.
Meanwhile, Mr Shanahan also said he didn't believe the Government's stance on Apple would hinder or undermine its relationship with the European Commission in the continuing Brexit negotiations.
The Government last week launched an appeal against the EU ruling that Apple received an unfair tax deal worth 13bn, and must pay it back.
"We have an issue with the European Commission decision and we're appealing it, but we're not the only country appealing a decision of the European Commission," Mr Shanahan said.
Fianna Fail Spokesperson on Agriculture Charlie McConalogue says it is absurd that the Government has refused to initiate a review of Food Wise 2025 in the wake of the Brexit vote in the United Kingdom.
The 10-year Food Wise 2025 strategy was published in 2015 and sets out the strategic plan for the development of the agri-food sector over the next decade.
Deputy McConalogue said Fianna Fail believes that the Brexit vote demands an immediate review of the Food Wise 2025 strategy.
As it stands the targets in the strategy were forecast on the assumption that the UK remains within the European Union.
A UK exit from the EU represents one of the biggest risks to the Irish agri-food industry since the foundation of the State. Thousands of jobs are set to be impacted by the UKs decision to leave the EU and its important that our strategy for developing the industry takes account of this.
I have been calling on the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed to launch a comprehensive review of Food Wise 2025 to consider the new threats that have arisen following the Brexit vote.
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McConalogue said astonishingly the Minister has refused to carry out such a review. In a parliamentary reply to me Minister Creed stated that he sees no compelling reason at this point to review the strategy.
This is an alarming response and indicates that the Government is out of touch when it comes to the threat posed by Brexit, he said.
The UK is Irelands number one agri-food export destination. Over 50% of beef exports and 33% of dairy exports are currently destined for the UK. The outcome of the Brexit vote will cause serious disruption to Irish exporters.
The ESRI have forecast that Brexit could lead to a 2% increase in unemployment and a 5% reduction in exports in the event of a hard Brexit taking place.
Irish economic growth has been downgraded since the Brexit vote. The first wave of job losses has already occurred in the horticulture sector due to the collapse in the value of sterling. The threat from Brexit is stark and real, and it is already having an impact on the agri-food sector.
It is vital that Minister Creed reconsiders his position by initiating a comprehensive view of Food Wise 2025 to take into account the threats associated with Brexit.
Success
Responding Minster Creed said that of the 330 detailed actions in the Food Wise strategy which were due to commence in 2015 or 2016, 28% have been achieved or substantial action has been undertaken; and he added that a further 67% have commenced and are progressing well.
"I believe that this is a good start and I will press on to get as many actions as possible completed within the next year.
"In the light of the UK vote to leave the EU I convened a special meeting of the High Level Implementation Committee to consider the immediate impact of the UK decision.
I intend to include this issue as a standard item on the agenda of each future meeting of the HLIC. It is clear that ensuring action is taken on the Food Wise recommendations, particularly those related to market development, competitiveness and innovation, assumes even greater importance in the light of the UK decision.
"However, I see no compelling reason at this point to review the strategy," the Minister said.
The Irish food industry sells itself as the home of green, environmentally-friendly farming. Yet it is home to only 1,787 certified organic farmers around 2pc of the total number of farmers and well below the European average of 5-6pc.
Tthe General Secretary of the Department of Agriculture recently said there are significant market opportunities for Irish organic produce and cited a recent Trade Mission to Asia where one high-end supermarket said the demand for organic produce is growing by 30pc a year.
Yet, with just 1,787 organic farmers in Ireland, our ability to export extensive volumes of produce is limited. One infant formula producer which uses Irish milk powder cannot source enough volumes of organic milk powder in Ireland and sources it abroad.
However, Grace Maher, of the Irish Organic Farmers and Growers Association (IOFGA) said part of the problem with the low number of organic farmers lies with the Department of Agriculture.
She said that there is currently no organic scheme for farmers to join, despite over 500 farmers joining the Organic Scheme last year.
Last year there was a 60pc increase in payments under the Organic Farming Scheme which brought Ireland more on a par with the rest of Europe in terms of government support and we had an unprecedented numbers come into organic farming. In total, 504 farmers came into organic farming in 2015.
However, she said that five-year Scheme has now closed and there is no funding for new farmers looking to join an organic scheme.
Figures from the Department of Agriculture show that the number of organic producers in Ireland has rinse from 1,277 in 2013 to 1, 787 this year.
The Department also said that the current budget for the Organic Farming Scheme has been fully committed, if additional funds in the Rural Development Programme become available, it will look at the re-opening of the Organic Scheme.
Other supports which remain open include the Organic Capital Investment Scheme under TAMS II which provides grants for a very wide range of on-farm investments by organic farmers, offering a standard 40% rate of aid and 60% in the case of young organic farmers.
According to Grace, of the 504 farmers who entered the scheme in 2015, there was a wide geographic spread, but the vast majority are involved in beef and sheep production.
Keeping farmers in organic production is not an issue, she said, its getting them in thats the problem.
Very few farmers leave organic farming, people may initially be attracted to the sector because of the OFS payment but once they are in the vast majority of them stay as they like the system of farming.
Farmers, she said, are very slow to convert to organic as many feel they are farming very close to organically, but dont bother with the additional process and paperwork that is involved to get certified, and that directly affects the numbers of farmers converting to organic production.
But, for most farmers, she says turning organic would involve very little change except for a reduction in fertiliser usage.
If the Government indicated that there was support for new farmers coming into the sector that would happen as there are farmers waiting in the wings to come into organics.
Organic Supports
The Organic Farming Scheme currently running in Ireland is a five-year scheme, with a two-year conversion period. During the two-year conversion, farmers must farm organically but their produce cannot be sold with an organic label on it.
To compensate for this possible as many farmers will initially reduce stocking rates and not receive an organic premium, farmers are eligible for supports of 220/ha for grassland farms and then 170/ha for the next three years.
Organic Demand
Figures from Kantar show that in 2016 organic food sales grew by 23pc in Ireland in the large supermarkets.
The European organic market is valued at 24bn, according to Grace and from an Irish perspective if you have an organic logo on the Irish green image you have a massive market on our doorstep.
Irish Organic Produce
Ireland needs more organic tillage farmers, according to Grace as there is a big demand for organic cereals.
Organically certified animals must be fed organic feed so if concentrates are fed they must be certified organic including protein crops, and at the moment we are heavily reliant on imports to meet this need
Ireland though, she said, is very good at producing organic meat products, especially beef and lamb. Around 40pc of the organic Irish beef produced here is exported.
Because direct sales of organic produce command higher prices, many organic producers sell directly and not through supermarkets. According to Grace, the majority, around 75pc of organic fruit and vegetables in supermarkets are imported, and there are obvious opportunities there for farmers who wish to produce Irish organic products to meet the market demand for them.
The largest agricultural auction in Europe, Cheffins, saw the highest grossing sale of second-hand machinery last week with sales totalling 3.5m at its sale ground in Sutton, Cambridgeshire. This is a lift in sales of over 1m compared to November last year.
The most expensive tractors were purchased by UK dealers who are reporting a shortage of used stock due to a decrease in trade-ins from farmers.
Against a challenging agricultural climate, dealers are reporting that farmers are turning to second-hand stock rather than purchasing new machines and this was reflected in the sales results.
The Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA), reported 2016 tractor registrations are down by 11pc, which illustrates the decrease in new tractor purchases.
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As farmers continue to extend their replacement policies, rather than purchasing new, the second-hand trade has continued to grow. Coupled with significant increases in manufacturers prices, quality second-hand stock is becoming increasingly attractive.
UK dealers accounted for over 50pc of deals at the November sale.
The highest ticket prices included; a John Deere 6210R which sold for 54,800; 50,500 for a John Deere 6125R and 46,000 for a Fendt 828 all of which sold to UK dealers.
The weakening pound also continued to attract foreign purchasers and Novembers sale saw the return of a number of mainland European buyers who havent been present over the previous two years.
Buyers included a large contingent from France, Spain, Belgium, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Poland and the Ukraine, as well as the usual strong trade from the Southern Ireland and Middle East and Northern Africa.
Novembers sale also saw an increase in sales of tractors direct from farms. Farmers have been looking to replace machinery and to make the most of the strong trade and prices achieved at auction due to exposure to the export market.
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Bill Pepper, Director, Cheffins, said with sales grossing over a third on Novembers sale last year, it is obvious that both the UK and export market for second-hand machinery is booming.
"The cocktail of rising prices for new tractors, lack of new tractor registrations, a shortage of stock for dealers and a drop in trade-ins has really brought the UK dealers back to our market.
"This, combined with the export trade making the most of a drop in the pound, has led to UK buyers vying against the foreign buyers and has in turn pushed up prices.
"We have also had a number of farmers entering stock to be sold as they see auction as the best way to achieve the highest prices for stock. One farmer from Lancashire drove his John Deere all the way to Cambridgeshire for the sale, taking him eleven hours, however it was well worth the trip as it eclipsed its reserve price by 5,000 and was purchased by an East Anglian dealer.
Work on the specification and terms and conditions for the TAMS tillage measure is at an advanced stage and it is hoped to have it ready shortly, the Department of Agriculture has confirmed.
The introduction of a specific scheme of investments for Tillage farmers has been included in a formal amendment to the Rural Development Programme proposed by the Department.
The acceleration of construction output has seen demand for workers rise, with a third of Irish building firms reporting an increase in employment. Stock image
The pace of construction activity in Ireland has surged to its highest level in seven months, according to data released by Ulster Bank today.
The acceleration of construction output has seen demand for workers rise, with a third of Irish building firms reporting an increase in employment. The rate of hiring hit an eight-month high last month.
But the strong activity reported by the sector is also starting to push up costs.
Robust demand has prompted suppliers to increase their charges, and also resulted in delivery delays, according to Ulster Bank. It added that the rise in input costs faced by construction firms in October was the fastest since August 2015.
Despite the spectre of Brexit, Irish construction firms were more confident in October of the future than they were in September.
The Ulster Bank Construction Purchasing Managers' Index - which tracks changes in construction activity - hit 62.3 in October, up from 58.7 in September.
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Any figure above 50 on the index indicates expansion in the sector, while any figure below 50 indicates contraction.
Simon Barry, the chief economist for the Republic of Ireland at Ulster Bank, said the October figures "paint an encouraging picture" of the construction sector.
About two-thirds of firms surveyed expect to be even busier over the next 12 months.
"Firms continue to report a strengthening in client demand amid a general improvement in economic conditions as an important contributor to the ongoing uplift in new business volumes," he said.
"In turn, the healthy expansion of new orders continues to underpin increased demand for construction workers."
DCC Energy has acquired French firm Gaz Europeen Holdings SAS in a move that will add to the company's presence in the country.
The firm described the deal as "highly complementary" to Butagaz's, which it acquired last year, strong market position in the liquefied petroleum gas in France.
Gaz Europeen is a specialist retailer of natural gas and focuses on the supplying management companies, apartment blocks, and public authorities.
The Paris-headquartered firm generated revenue of 205m last year with an operating profit of 15.7m.
The deal is DCC Energy's first major acquisition in natural gas as the business looks to strengthen its position in the French market.
Stephen Moore says the US should be more competitive
One of Donald Trump's key economic advisers has said the United States wants to "emulate Ireland" under the president-elect's corporate tax policies.
Stephen Moore said the US had learned a lesson in business development and competitiveness from Ireland.
Mr Moore warned last week that a "flood of companies" would leave Ireland when Mr Trump implemented his new tax policy.
Government ministers have been quick to play down the danger of American companies fleeing Ireland, stressing that firms are attracted to the country for a number of reasons, not just the favourable corporate tax rate.
Speaking yesterday, Mr Moore said: "We want to emulate Ireland. You have one of the lowest, if not the lowest, business tax rates of all.
"We want to be competitive with Ireland. We've learned that low taxes are a good way to stimulate development, so we're very excited about this idea.
"We do think that a lot of the companies that have left the United States will come back and they will come back from China and from Canada, Mexico and come back from Ireland."
He said lowering the corporate tax rate to 15pc was necessary to bring jobs back to the US. He said: "We need to do this, we need to bring back the jobs to Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania.
"We need to bring back the jobs that have left. I think overall the lesson that we've learned is that a good way to stimulate more business investment is to cut our business tax rate and we learned it from Ireland."
Mr Trump's aide also said the new administration was aiming to drastically change the economic landscape in the US. He said a lack of competitiveness had damaged the US economy.
"We've lost a lot of manufacturing, we've lost a lot of plants, most of them have gone to places in Mexico and China. We just haven't been competitive in the United States, we've had very high taxes, we've had strangling regulations, we've got crazy climate change policies.
"All of that is going to change in America. We're going to start producing things again in America and making things again," he said.
US financial giant Citigroup has denied it is planning to move as many as 900 jobs to Dublin as part of its Brexit battle plan.
A report over the weekend suggested the bank is scouting for office space in the capital, where it employs 2,500 people. But a spokeswoman for the bank denied the claim.
The 'Sunday Times' claimed Citigroup is working on a "project of substance" for Ireland, that would see it shift hundreds of jobs to Dublin as Britain prepares to leave the EU.
Citigroup held a board meeting in Dublin last week. It was attended by chief executive Mike Corbat and chairman Michael O'Neill. During their visit, they met Taoiseach Enda Kenny and other senior politicians.
But a Citigroup spokeswoman said the company holds one board meeting outside the United States every year, and the meeting in Dublin had been arranged a year ago.
She said that there is no "project of substance" being developed by the bank for Ireland, and that the company is not looking for any new office space.
The best thing we can say about the US presidential election is that it's over. There were lies, damn lies, scandals, racism and misogyny. There was one candidate who played by a traditional rulebook, and another who understood how to exploit the needs of struggling print and broadcast media to create ubiquitous publicity.
Obviously, the US media needs to take a long, hard look at itself. The traditional media seems to have lost the ability to hold the middle ground, and perhaps one of the reasons for this is the online filter bubble that the modern electorate inhabits.
Could it be that the internet, which originally held the promise of access to all human knowledge, actually delivers dangerous levels of confirmation bias and an ill-informed electorate?
Earlier this year, Pew Research estimated that 62pc of Americans get their news from social media, with Facebook having the strongest grip on the American psyche. But Facebook's newsfeed has little to do with news in the traditional sense. It offers no analysis. It's not designed to challenge or inform, but to keep users engaged on Facebook for as long as possible. It's a honey trap, which serves up a sweet cocktail of personalised content users are likely to engage with and share.
Of course, Facebook isn't the only one engaging in this form of personalisation that creates more habitual user behaviour - good news for the platforms that use it. But it also leads to users being exposed to very few ideas that challenge their world view - bad news for tolerance and democracy.
Market intelligence company Mintel issued a recent consumer trends report that found personalisation leads to curated worldviews and separate allegorical ecosystems.
"Humans naturally tend to select what they like," the report states, "but now, many content publishers and social media sites employ algorithms to feed users only articles and posts which they know will be met with enjoyment and agreement."
Search engines that give prominence to one candidate over another based on user data could also be swaying political outcomes. How much sway could they have? Researchers at the American Institute for Behavioural Research in California wanted to find out, so they built a search engine that deliberately skewed results. Around 300 voters were invited to choose their preferred candidate in a two-horse political race.
They found that undecided voters' preferences could be affected by placing one candidate above the other. They even estimated that biased search engine results could shift the vote by up to 2.6 million votes.
Not a huge amount, but if applied to states with higher electoral colleges, you could have a very different result. The researchers were quick to point out there is no evidence any search engine would deliberately manipulate results. But they did note that these algorithms that can sway voters' opinions are shrouded in secrecy, and the likes of relevance and personal data are used to rank results.
What is clear is that whenever algorithms are used to serve up information related to politics based on personal information, some form of digital gerrymandering is possible. The filter bubble and resulting polarisation is an unintended consequence of the convenience which many technology companies are pursuing on behalf of their users. They want intuitive and addictive interfaces that present users with no cognitive load. But this desire is directly at odds with the principles needed to foster an informed and tolerant electorate.
Facebook seems to be aware of its responsibility in this regard. In response to an article on Vox entitled 'Facebook is harming our democracy, and Mark Zuckerberg needs to do something about it', the social network issued the following statement: "We understand there's so much more we need to do, and that is why it's important that we keep improving our ability to detect misinformation. We're committed to continuing to work on this issue."
To borrow a political slogan from our side of the pond, it's a case of "A lot done. More to do."
The personal details of millions who signed up to a sex hook-up website in the past 20 years have been exposed in one of the largest ever data breaches.
The email addresses and passwords of 412 million accounts have been leaked after the meet-up website Adult Friend Finder and sister sites were hacked. At least 5.2 million UK email addresses were stolen in the breach, which also included the date of last visit, browser information, some purchasing patterns.
Adult Friend Finder describes itself as "one of the world's largest sex hook-up" websites, with more than 40 million active users. The hack, against its parent company Friend Finder Networks, also involved data from Cams.com, a live video sex site, and Penthouse.com, an internet porn site that was sold in February.
The attack, discovered by hack monitoring site Leaked Source, occurred in October and is one of the biggest on record, following closely behind Yahoo, which recently reported the loss of half a billion users' details. It eclipses last year's Ashley Madison hack, in which the personal information and sexual preferences of 37 million people were exposed.
It is not clear who is behind the breach of Friend Finder Networks, a California-based company.
Weak and outdated website security allowed cyber criminals to access the Adult Friend Finder information, Leaked Source said. The passwords and usernames were stored in a way that is easily decoded, meaning 99 per cent of those stolen were legible to the hackers.
"Passwords were stored by Friend Finder Networks either in plan visible format or SHA1 hashed. Neither method is considered secure by any stretch of the imagination," said Leaked Source.
The stolen data included the details of 15 million accounts that had been deleted by the users but remained on the company's servers.
Friend Finder Networks, which lost the login details, date of birth and sexual preferences of almost 4 million users in 2015, would not confirm the breach, but said it had found vulnerabilities in its site, according to ZD Net.
"Over the past several weeks, Friend Finder has received a number of reports regarding potential security vulnerabilities," said Diana Ballou, the company's vice president. "Immediately upon learning this information, we took several steps to review the situation and bring in the right external partners to support our investigation.
"While a number of these claims proved to be false extortion attempts, we did identify and fix a vulnerability."
Experts warned that companies need to do more to make sure their customers' personal details are kept safe.
"Companies still tend to underestimate the risks related to web applications, and consequently put their customers at huge risk," said Ilia Kolochenko, chief executive of High-Tech Bridge. "With this breach of 400 million accounts we should expect a domino effect of smaller data breaches with password reuse and spear-phishing."
How to check if my details were stolen
Leaked Source has decided not to release the full database of people affected by the breach due to the sensitive nature of the information. But anyone who has signed up to one of the affected sites in the past 20 years, could be at risk, given that 15 million users who had deleted their accounts were affected.
Anyone who has used the following sites could have been affected:
AdultFriendFinder.com - 3.4 million users affected
Cams.com - 62.7 million users
Penthouse.com - 7.12 million users
Stripshow.com - 1.4 million users
iCams.com - 1.14 million users
Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022]
Many of the California tech industry's leaders are unhappy with the outcome of the US presidential election. This being Silicon Valley, they've come up with an innovative response: secede from the union.
It's one idea I hope they won't bring to fruition.
California supported Hillary Clinton more than any other state, yet the election was called before its votes could even be tallied. The tech industry was particularly disappointed, given Donald Trump's stance on issues like trade and immigration. As Sam Altman, president of startup incubator Y Combinator, put it in a tweet: "This feels like the worst thing to happen in my life."
Silicon Valley won't take this sitting down. Shervin Pishevar, co-founder of transportation startup Hyperloop One, has promised to fund a campaign for California to become its own nation. Supporters are working on an initiative to put a referendum for California secession on the 2018 ballot.
On Wednesday, residents gathered in front of the capitol building in Sacramento to rally for independence.
Whether or not secession works out, people like Mr Altman have plenty of backup plans. In an earlier interview with the 'New Yorker', Mr Altman explained his preparations for the apocalypse: "I have guns, gold, potassium iodide, antibiotics, batteries, water, gas masks from the Israeli defence force, and a big patch of land in Big Sur I can fly to." Plan B is to fly to New Zealand with billionaire venture capitalist Peter Thiel.
OK, this is why half the country hates the wealthy elite.
They can muck things up all they want, and simply leave when the going gets tough. And they love to experiment with other people's lives. Mr Thiel co-founded the Seasteading Institute, a movement to build independently governed floating cities. Larry Page has designs on a regulation-free Google Island, Elon Musk plans to colonise Mars, and Tim Draper wants to carve up California and turn Silicon Valley into a mini-state.
Balaji Srinivasan, a partner at venture-capital firm Andreessen Horowitz, suggests that the tech industry might not even need a physical exodus, but can build technology to opt out of undesirable policies: "It could be something as simple as allowing people in the middle class to make tax shelters." Maybe Silicon Valley will disrupt government with a civil disobedience app.
A similar sequence played out just before the Civil War. In 1860, Abraham Lincoln won the presidential election without carrying a single southern state. Wealthy cotton producers in the south saw no reason to support a government they no longer trusted, and seceded to form the Confederacy. They ran into trouble when the Union blockaded major ports to prevent the Confederate states from trading.
California's secession is unlikely to go any better. It became the world's sixth-largest economy thanks in large part to transfers from the rest of the country.
The Bay Area tech industry received much of its early funding from the US Navy for things like radios and aeronautics research, which created demand for vacuum tubes and San Jose's mercury mines. The biggest buyers of early silicon circuits were the Department of Defence and Nasa.
Secessionists point out that California receives only 94c in federal spending for every dollar it pays in income tax. Yet leaving could sever crucial ties to the rest of the country.
Southern California gets most of its water from the Colorado River in Arizona, and the entire state's natural gas and oil supply arrives through pipelines coming from Texas. Many California-based companies are incorporated in Delaware, for the lower tax rates.
In theory, state representatives could negotiate independent trade agreements, but this would cost a lot more than the 6pc of California tax dollars that go to other parts of the union (there's something to be said for economies of scale). Plus, the new Republic of California wouldn't survive a foreign invasion unless it built its own military or became the protectorate of another nation.
Mr Pishevar suggests that an independent California could someday rejoin the US (presumably after they elect a more favourable president).
That's not how a nation-state works. The US is not a drive-through service station, and people don't like it when a certain contingency gets to treat it as such.
Technology companies stash their earnings in low-tax foreign jurisdictions to avoid the high US corporate tax rate.
Meanwhile, they enjoy the benefits of government-funded research and property rights backed by the largest military in the world.
Tech industry leaders have taken all the steps they can to leave without physically departing. Before making any more radical moves, they should recognise what a good deal they get.
U.S. President Barack Obama stands with Vice President Joe Biden (R) have been having fun at Donald Trump's expense in imagined conversations on Twitter. REUTERS/Carlos Barria
One of the best things to come out of the traumatising week that saw Donald Trump elected as president of the United States, was the resurgence of Barack Obama and Joe Biden memes.
Since the current president and his Vice President met with their successors, Donald Trump and Mike Pence, on Thursday, fans took to social media to share their greatest memes of the presidential duo, as a final send-off.
Memes have been created from some of the duo's most famous photo-ops as fans re-imagine conversations they could have before handing over they keys to the White House. Many of the memes involve Biden scheming or pranking Trump and Pence, while Obama, like a disappointed father, tries to talk him out of it.
The conversations are, of course, completely false but they still provide some comic relief after what was a difficult week for many people.
Here are some of the best:
Biden: He's literally right there Barack. I can just choke him out or pull down his pants or something.
Obama: Joe just smile and wave pic.twitter.com/yzPCqPey0g daddy nicky (@preciousadidas) November 12, 2016
Biden: What if we paint the Mexican flag in the office
Obama: Joe, no
Biden: I already ordered the paint
Obama: Joe pic.twitter.com/mCCh6OPQRk dan // pinned if unf (@tragecies) November 11, 2016
"if you do not stop pouting i will give you something to pout about" pic.twitter.com/9iCdwSTRo1 rudy mustang (@roostermustache) November 14, 2016
biden: cmon you gotta print a fake birth certificate, put it in an envelope labeled "SECRET" and leave it in the oval office desk
obama: joe pic.twitter.com/UTtv1JkE5o jomny sun (@jonnysun) November 11, 2016
Trump: Does he always just stand there like that?
Obama: He's upset right now
Trump: Is he...is he winking at me? Why is he winking at me? pic.twitter.com/Q1WTFEgoJB Josh (@jbillinson) November 13, 2016
Obama: Joe, where are the keys to the Situation Room?
Biden: The what?
Obama: Joe
Biden: No idea what you're talking about pic.twitter.com/z5MXYAQpb4 Mollie Goodfellow (@hansmollman) November 12, 2016
Biden: I'm gonna punch him.
Obama: Smile and wave, Joe. pic.twitter.com/ImEz6X68jm Norm Kelly (@norm) November 11, 2016
Obama: "Joe, why are you still holding my hand?"
Biden: "I wanna freak Mike Pence out"
Obama: "But why?"
Biden: "Just roll with it" pic.twitter.com/o5KZZ0Ysgz thomas moore (@Thomas_A_Moore) November 12, 2016
Biden: Ok here's the plan: have you seen Home Alone
Obama: Joe, no
Biden: Just one booby trap
Obama: Joe pic.twitter.com/TkA6Dt3Xp6 LOL (@TeethOnTeeth) November 13, 2016
Biden: I told him that we call in attacks on countries by blocking them on Twitter.
O: Joe...
Biden: Trust me. pic.twitter.com/9ipIoFPDeg Crutnacker (@Crutnacker) November 14, 2016
Obama: Check pl-
Biden: Actually, we'll take five more milkshakes and you can bill the White House on January 21st pic.twitter.com/KVcdBtQHAe Josh (@jbillinson) November 12, 2016
Biden: Hillary was saying they took the W's off the keyboards when Bush won!
Obama: Joe put-
Biden: I TOOK THE T'S, THEY CAN ONLY TYPE RUMP pic.twitter.com/D6Vh7Zu429 Josh (@jbillinson) November 13, 2016
BIDEN: I'mma punch him when he comes here.
OBAMA: No, Joe. Don't do that.
BIDEN: Punch him round the back.
OBAMA: Joe.
BIDEN: Kick, then. pic.twitter.com/TmbPfrBalT SimonNRicketts (@SimonNRicketts) November 9, 2016
Obama: Did you replace all the toiletries with travel size bottles?
Biden: He's got tiny hands Barack, I want him to feel welcome here pic.twitter.com/e7NRIZ43Ww Josh (@jbillinson) November 11, 2016
Biden: Trump's sons were nice
Obama: Considering you called them the Menendez brothers all day
B: Uday and Qusay? pic.twitter.com/kLvOoHVpLi Crutnacker (@Crutnacker) November 14, 2016
Biden: You have some big shoes to fill
Pence: I know, being VP is a huge responsibility.
B: No, Mike. The memes. pic.twitter.com/BLZ7vhQLB8 Luke The Supertramp (@_craw4d4_) November 11, 2016
Joe: I'm going to ask Donald if he wants something to eat
Barack: That's nice, Joe
Joe: And then I'm going to offer him knuckle sandwiches pic.twitter.com/xYJ0k2QTX6 Jill Biden (@JillBidenVeep) November 13, 2016
Obama: Tell Joe why he can't booby trap the White H-
Biden: Now hold on a second, just know that no matter what you say I'm doing it anyways pic.twitter.com/7BGPAnWeiY Josh (@jbillinson) November 13, 2016
"Yes Mr. Trump, I took Joe's pocket knife away and we'll get you some new tires for that limo right away, but I can't make him say sorry" pic.twitter.com/wULtfJqu85 Josh (@jbillinson) November 11, 2016
Trump: Hello?
Caller: Oompa Loompa doompety doo!
Trump: Dammit Joe, Barack said he was taking your phone away. Do not call this number again pic.twitter.com/qdL0PDSvEu Josh (@jbillinson) November 13, 2016
A Limerick pizza restaurant and takeaway turned into a dance floor at the weekend.
Top Pizza Limerick was serving hungry customers after night clubs closed in the early hours of Sunday morning when Indian music began playing, resulting in customers and staff alike taking to the floor to dance to Indian music.
Harry Munjal, who uploaded the video of the unexpected rave to Facebook, said he and his friends couldn't resist dancing to the music.
"Staff members were cleaning the shop and they played Indian punjabi songs in background," Harry told Independent.ie.
"We are from India, so we can't stop dancing if there are Indian songs on loud volume."
Watch the video below and enjoy.
Maggie O'Farrell is one of a luminous group of Irish writers up for the Eason Novel of the Year Award which will be announced on Wednesday
The Bord Gais Energy Irish Book Awards has become the literary event of the year and Wednesday is this year's big night out for authors, publishers and readers alike. What started out small, as The Irish Book Awards with just three categories, has grown into a kind of Oscars for Irish books, where, unlike other prestigious book awards, the reading public gets to vote.
Probably the most coveted prize is the Eason Book Club Novel of the Year. A list of previous winners reads like a roll-call of the very best of Irish writers. John Banville has won twice, in 2006 and 2012 with The Sea and Ancient Light respectively, while Anne Enright won with The Gathering in 2008 and again last year with The Green Road. This year sees Emma Donoghue on the shortlist again, having won the award in 2010 for Room, which later became the Oscar-winning film.
Here is this year's shortlist:
All We Shall Know, - Donal Ryan: Melody Shee, a schoolteacher in a loveless and childless marriage, discovers that she's pregnant, but not by her husband. The baby's father is Martin Toppy, a student of Melody's, and a Traveller, just 19 years old. This is a novel about prejudice and violence, about the inherent hypocrisy within smalltown piousness, and about the terrible consequences of perceived betrayal.
The Irish Independent's Ruth Gilligan wrote that this is "undoubtedly Ryan's strongest work to date. His lightness of touch has been honed to such a degree that a rich, layered portrait of Melody and her world is conjured through the simplest of vignettes."
Days Without End, - Sebastian Barry: Thomas McNulty, aged just 17, survives his voyage across the Atlantic during the Great Famine. He meets John Cole and together they form a kind of drag queen show. They later join the army, fighting mostly Indians in the quest to conquer the lands of California and the surrounding states. Both brutally violent and intensely poetic, this book has wooed the critics. The Guardian's Alex Clarke wrote: "Days Without End is a work of staggering openness; its startlingly beautiful sentences are so capacious that they are hard to leave behind, its narrative so propulsive that you must move on."
Solar Bones, - Mike McCormack: Marcus Conway, deceased, finds himself back home in his kitchen, reflecting on how he got there, and on how he was taken away. Part fantasy, part family and social commentary, wholly admired by virtually everyone, it is McCormack's first novel since 2007.
As John Boland wrote in his Irish Independent review ". . . there are two novels going on here . . . one of them quite traditional in its portrait of a good man trying to do his honourable best for his family and for the local people . . . and one of them pondering the futility of all such human interactions in a meaningless universe".
The Lesser Bohemians, - Eimear McBride: Eimear McBride's first novel A Girl is a Half-Formed Thing won several awards, including the Bailey's prize. Her second novel may share the same destiny. A young Irish drama student in London embarks on a traumatic relationship with an older actor.
This is a superior, if rather disturbing, love story. JP O'Malley, in his review of Bohemians for this newspaper, wrote: "McBride is a daring writer who is not afraid to mess with language, displaying its malleability, randomness and irregular rhythms in equal measure. Words and phrases often go back to front and scenes are pieced together almost like an impressionist painting through fragments, hazy images and a blur of uncertainty."
The Wonder - Emma Donoghue: English nurse Lib Wright is sent to Ireland in the 1850s to investigate how Anna O'Donnell, an 11-year-old girl who has been fasting for four months, is still alive and seemingly healthy. Is this a miracle?
Lib Wright, who has nursed in Crimea, is sceptical. And as Anna's health begins to deteriorate, Lib becomes desperate to save her life. Stephen King, reviewing for the The New York Times, wrote that The Wonder reminded him of Somerset Maugham's The Razor's Edge "only turned inside out. Maugham's book is about the power of spirituality to heal. Donoghue has written, with crackling intensity, about its power to destroy".
Video of the Day
This Must Be The Place, - Maggie O'Farrell: Daniel Sullivan is an American living in Donegal with his ex-film-star wife and their two children.
Claudette, his wife, is passionate about keeping unwanted visitors at bay - with a gun if necessary. Daniel has other children whom he never sees, from a previous marriage in California. He also has a father, whom he hates, in Brooklyn. The fractured pasts of both Daniel and Claudette threaten to destroy their present.
In a Telegraph interview, O'Farrell said: "Years ago I was in a cafe and a very famous actress walked in. Everyone was staring, taking photos and the paparazzi turned up. Later I saw her in the toilet with her head against a mirror and her eyes closed. I just thought, 'If I was her I'd probably fake my own death' - the idea that became This Must be the Place."
Jenn Murray pictured at The Irish premiere screening of the film Brooklyn at The Savoy Cinema Dublin, Pic Brian McEvoy No Repro fee for one use
The Irish star of the new JK Rowling blockbuster has said a bad phone line meant it took her a week before she realised she had landed the coveted role.
Jenn Murray, from Belfast, who studied drama at Trinity, said she could not believe her luck when she heard she had landed the part of Chastity in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.
She joined an all-star cast of actors including Eddie Redmayne, Colin Farrell and Jon Voight for the Harry Potter prequel, which will premiere in London tomorrow.
"I got a phone call from my agent and we were talking in the airport and it was really loud so I thought he said that I didn't get the part and I was gutted," said Jenn.
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"So a week went by and I had processed the fact that I didn't get the part and then he rang me to give me details of the recall and I was like, 'But I didn't get it' and he was like, 'Yes you did!'
"I had totally misheard him, but it was a blessing in disguise because I had already programmed myself into not getting it, so it was a lovely surprise."
Given the A-list actors she got to rub shoulders with, Jenn was a little awe-struck stepping out on set the first day.
"I have to be honest, it was totally thrilling. I can't be blase because I've always wanted to be an actress," she said.
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"It's phenomenal for me to get a role like this. Not that I don't believe in myself, but it really is such a privilege to be doing something you love and getting paid for it.
The rising star described filming as "one big learning curve", as she got to watch seasoned stars in action.
"People like Jon Voight, they are Hollywood royalty, so to get to sit beside him and have a coffee and talk about life, those are things that are magical," she said.
"Colin Farrell is a total gentleman. He's open and warm and I was very inspired by him."
Video of the Day
While Jenn can't say too much about what lies ahead for her character, she's no doubt over the moon after JK Rowling (inset) let it slip recently that the movie is part one of a five-film franchise.
Honoree Jackie Chan with Sylvester Stallone at the 2016 Governors Awards at the Dolby Ballroom in Los Angeles (Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP)
Jackie Chan said he had achieved "a dream" as he was awarded an honorary Oscar.
The 62-year-old Hong Kong actor and martial artist was honoured at the Governors Awards in Los Angeles, where his Rush Hour co-star Chris Tucker and Tom Hanks paid tribute to him.
British film editor Anne V Coates, documentary maker Frederick Wiseman and casting director Lynn Stalmaster were also recognised at the ceremony.
"It's a dream," Chan said on stage.
"After 56 years in the film industry, over 200 films, I broke so many bones, finally this is mine.
"Thank you Hollywood. For all those years you taught me so many things and also you made me a little bit famous.
"Friends, fans around the world, because of you I have a reason to continue making movies, jumping out windows, kicking and punching and breaking my bones."
At the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Hollywood, Chan revealed he first held an Oscar when he visited Sylvester Stallone's house 23 years ago.
"I touched it, kissed it, smelt it," he said. "I believe my fingerprints are still on it. Then I told myself; 'I really want one'."
He also thanked Hong Kong, which he described as his "hood", and said he was "proud to be Chinese".
Paying tribute to Chan, two-time Oscar winner Hanks said: "It's especially gratifying to be able to acknowledge Jackie's enormous creativity, his enormous gift for physical performance and incredible dedication to his work with this Governors Award.
"Great acting comes in many different forms but when you're an actor you always know it when you see it."
Video of the Day
Tucker, who starred in three Rush Hour movies with Chan, said: "Working with a living legend was amazing. Every day I couldn't wait to get on the set to see Jackie Chan.
"Jackie, it was an honour working with you and I can't wait to work with you again."
Chan starred in more than 30 martial arts films in his native Hong Kong before achieving worldwide fame in Rumble in the Bronx in 1996.
He went on to star in a string of Hollywood films including the Rush Hour trilogy, Shanghai Noon and its sequel Shanghai Knights starring Owen Wilson, Around the World in 80 Days, 2010's The Karate Kid and Kung Fu Panda.
Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Nicole Kidman, Warren Beatty and Richard Gere were among the star-studded audience at the ceremony.
Coates, 90, was honoured for a career spanning more than 60 years which saw her win the 1963 Oscar for film editing for Lawrence of Arabia.
She earned four more Academy Award nominations for her work on the films Becket, The Elephant Man, In the Line of Fire and Out of Sight starring George Clooney and Jennifer Lopez.
She also worked on Murder On The Orient Express, Richard Attenborough's Chaplin, Erin Brockovich and Fifty Shades Of Grey.
Australian star Kidman said: "Anne V Coates is not a great female editor, she is a great, great editor.
"She's not trailblazer for women, she's a trailblazer for all of us. Anne has left her mark on some of the greatest films of all time."
Gere, whose 2002 film Unfaithful was edited by Coates, described her as "one of the great giants of our industry".
"The greatest of the great, great, great film editors," he added.
Accepting her award, Coates, from Reigate, Surrey, said: "Can you imagine a job where you're actually paid to look into the eyes of George Clooney, Peter O'Toole, Richard Burton, Peter Finch, Sean Connery, Albert Finney, Clint Eastwood, Richard Gere, Daniel Craig, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Fifty Shades Of Grey himself Jamie Dornan?
"Looking back I wouldn't change a thing. But of all those I still have to say my three greatest productions are my three wonderful and talented children.
"Thank you once for this very special award. I have to say I never suspected I'd be holding one of these in my hand again."
Of all the animals the team filmed, the fabled snow leopard was the most elusive
The male snow leopard is drawn to the scent of the female in heat
Sunday night's Planet Earth captured the first ever recorded sighting of snow leopards mating in the wild.
In dramatic scenes from Sunday night's Planet Earth Two on BBC, viewers were treated to the first ever recording of snow leopards mating in the wild.
The BBC programme focused on mountains this week, following last week's islands episode. One segment of the show looked at one of the most elusive cats on the planet, living in one of the most inhospitable environments on earth: snow leopards in the high altitude terrains of the Himalayas.
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The show's narrator, Sir David Attenborough, described them as "one of the most majestic mountain creatures of all". He said, "the detail of their lives has long been a mystery" because it's extremely difficult to collect footage of the camera-shy cats.
But the BBC team deployed camera traps along the Kashmir Mountain passes, trigged by heat-sensitivity, to catch brief glimpses of the majestic beasts. Eventually, they lucked out and captured more than they anticipated with the first ever recorded sighting of snow leopards mating in the wild.
It was also the very first time that four of these incredibly rare cats, of which only 3,500 remain in the wild, had been filmed together.
In the clip we saw a female snow leopard protect her young cub, who is still completely dependant on her for survival. The little family unit of mother and cub were put in a potentially fatal situation as they were approached by two male leopards, drawn to the female on heat.
Attenborough informed viewers, "males kill cubs that are not their own".
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"A fight is inevitable. Soon the mother and cub are trapped between the rivals," he added.
In uncomfortable scenes, the mother was forced to offer herself to the males in order to distract them and protect her cub. She rolled over submissively and they gleefully attacked her, leaving her injured and unable to hunt.
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Just as viewers recovered from the upsetting scenes, Attenborough cut even deeper by informing fans that the female and her cub were never seen together again.
"Until... A month later. A remote camera was triggered high on a ridge," he teased.
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"The female - no longer limping but alone," was spotted on the camera.
Then, Attenborough went on, "an hour after the female has left the camera was triggered again.
"Its her cub - taking her first steps towards independence."
Most sobering of all is the threat that snow leopards face from humans.
According to a new study, which was published in the journal Biological Conservation, climate change could reduce them to unsustainable numbers in many populations. Rising temperatures, especially in the Himalayas, are expected to leave snow leopards with just one-third of their habitat by 2070.
Arts Minister Heather Humphreys and French Veterans Minister Jean-Marc Todeschini (second from right) arrive at the dedication of a Ginchy Cross ceremony in Glasnevin Cemetery, Dublin, yesterday. Photo: Gerry Mooney
A letter written by Padraig Pearse ordering the surrender of the 1916 Rising rebels will not be purchased by the Government, as it would not be the best use of State resources, said Arts Minister Heather Humphreys.
The minister defended the decision not to purchase the historic letter, as it had a guide price at an upcoming auction of up to 1.5m, which was "rather a lot," she said.
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The Pearse letter, written three days before his execution, was brought to the rebels' garrison in the Four Courts, which then surrendered.
She said the National Museum already has other surrender letters written by Pearse to the rebels.
"The cost mentioned was between 1m and 1.5m so there were other pressures that we felt we had to meet.
"There were a number of such letters of a similar type. We felt that to spent 1m or 1.5m on one single letter would be rather a lot," she said.
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Ms Humphreys was speaking at the unveiling of a monument at Glasnevin cemetery yesterday which was a gift from the people of France to Ireland in recognition of the sacrifice of Irishmen on French battlefields, chiefly during World War I.
The new France-Ireland Memorial was officially dedicated by French Veterans Minister Jean-Marc Todeschini and Ms Humphreys. French and Irish soldiers took part in the ceremony. The memorial is more than seven metres tall and consists of a Celtic cross surrounded by tall leaning rocks.
Three bronze battle helmets rest on nearby rocks.
The cross is a replica of a wooden cross created by men of the 16th Irish Division 100 years ago during the Battle of the Somme at the churchyard at Ginchy in France.
The mayors of Ginchy and the nearby town of Guillemont joined Dublin Lord Mayor Brendan Carr at the ceremony.
Three Irishmen who fought in France in World War II, Albert Sutton, James Moore and Jack Allshire, were awarded with the Legion of Honour by Mr Todeschini at the ceremony.
Albert Sutton (94), of Kilternan, Co Dublin, was among the first troops at the liberation of the Belsen concentration camp.
James Moore (92), of Coolbawn, Co Tipperary, spoke of landing on a Normandy beach a few days after D-Day when the Allies were still being bombed.
Barbara Allshire, the wife of Cork-born Jack Allshire, accepted a posthumous award on behalf of her husband, who died recently.
Meanwhile, Taoiseach Enda Kenny was in Enniskillen, where he joined Northern Ireland First Minister Arlene Foster at a wreath-laying ceremony to remember the Irish war dead.
Mr Kenny laid a wreath of green laurels at the Co Fermanagh town's war memorial.
Tanaiste and Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald laid a laurel wreath at a remembrance ceremony in Belfast.
She said: "It is really important to come together, to remember together and to look at our shared histories."
BEDDING salesman and internet sensation Mattress Mick has been ordered to pay 900 for unwittingly renting out a taxi to a driver with an expired public service vehicle licence.
Prosecuted by the National Transport Authority (NTA) under his real name, Michael Flynn, the 65-year-old was summonsed to appear at Dublin District Court on Monday.
Mr Flynn of Kincora Road, Dublin 3, pleaded guilty to not keeping a record of the driver's licence but was given a chance to avoid a criminal conviction.
Judge John O'Neill was told that during a compliance check a taxi was stopped in Stillorgan in Dublin on March 8 last. It took off at speed but the driver's home was later placed under surveillance. When questioned the man admitted he had been the driver and his public service vehicle (PSV) licence had expired in January 2015.
He had rented the taxi from Mr Flynn who was later interviewed by an NTA inspector. Judge O'Neill heard Mr Flynn was found to be incredibly co-operative and very professional.
Mr Flynn, who represented himself, explained to the judge that he had not known the driver who had rented taxi from him did not have a PSV licence at the time. He also said he had paid for the man to get one reissued and the driver does not rent the taxi from him any more.
Judge O'Neill noted his explanation and ordered him to donate 500 to the Simon Community and to pay 400 in prosecution costs.
Adjourning the case, Judge O'Neill indicated that Mr Flynn will be spared a court conviction if the sums have been paid ahead of the next hearing in December.
Mr Flynn has become a fixture on north-side Dublin billboards. However, he is better known as Mattress Mick to fans of his cult comedy advertising and videos which went viral boosting sales in his mattress shop in Dublin.
He has also gone on to star in a documentary, called Mattress Men, which has received critical acclaim.
A MAN who fatally stabbed his housemate in the heart when they rowed about food during a drinking binge was jailed for five years today.
Deivydas Zigelis, a 39-year-old Lithuanian, was found not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter of Alexander Karpovs (26) by a jury in June this year.
Mr Karpovs, who was originally from Latvia, died of a single stab wound to the heart at his home on Spa Street in Portarlington on February 15, 2014.
Sentencing Zigelis to seven years at the Central Criminal Court, with the final two years suspended, Mr Justice Paul Butler said that when a human being is stabbed to death in such circumstances that the charge should be murder.
However, the judge acknowledged that the manslaughter conviction had been the correct one as the crime was clearly not a premeditated killing.
During the trial, jurors were shown photographs taken inside the house that the dead man and his killer shared.
The images showed that the floors had been littered with debris, broken crockery, drink cans and empty cigarette boxes.
Describing Zigelis as a functioning alcoholic, Mr Justice Butler said the killing took place in a hovel.
The judge added that the defendant appears to be decent person who has vowed never to touch alcohol again and has shown genuine remorse.
At a previous hearing, the Central Criminal Court heard how Zigelis told gardai I killed my friend. I am a bad man shortly after his arrest.
During that hearing last month, Mr Justice Butler was told that Zigelis had admitted to the killing inside Portarlington garda station hours after the fatal attack.
Garda Ann Deegan agreed with prosecuting counsel, Shane Costelloe SC, that Mr Karpovs, and Zigelis, along with another man, had been drinking heavily in the house prior to a row between the accused and the deceased.
The killer sent his 26-year-old housemate out to buy cider and ribs that afternoon, but he arrived home without the ribs.
The row ended when the accused punched the victim in the heart with a steak knife.
Gda Deegan also agreed that the other man in the house at the time later told gardai that he only realised that Mr Karpovs had been stabbed when a puddle of blood began forming beneath the body and his face began to turn blue.
It was at this point, the court was told, that the defendant phoned the emergency services.
When gardai arrived at the scene, Mr Karpovs was already dead. A post-mortem later revealed that the victim had died as a result of blood loss.
The court was also told that that third man was so drunk that he made comments to gardai at the scene that suggested he had been responsible for the death.
But Zigelis later admitted to officers that he had been the wielder of the knife used in the attack.
A victim impact statement from the dead mans mother, who lives in Latvia, was also read out in court.
The woman said her son had been supporting her financially and that his death had taken away her only hope.
She added that, as a result of the killing, she had been left feeling stressed out all the time and that she could not sleep.
Conor Devally SC, counsel for the defence, told the court that his client had regretted his actions and was remorseful.
Mr Devally added: Mr Zigelis does not want to colour what happened in any way. He acknowledges that this was a dreadful event and an unfulfilled life was lost.
A man who stole almost 8,000 from his own bank account after it held funds that didn't belong to him will be sentenced next February.
Conor McKee (26) withdrew cash in three different locations because he was worried he would be caught. He said he hadn't used his account in six months and then noticed that a large amount of cash had been lodged into it.
He acknowledged in interview that he knew the money wasn't his and wondered where it had come from. I had no money and it appeared in my account, McKee told gardai. He said he didn't know anyone else had access to his account.
He said he had spent the money on food, drink and trips away with his partner.
McKee of Meile An Ri View, Balgaddy, Clondalkin, Dublin pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to stealing a total 7, 939.35 from Bank of Ireland in three different locations on April 24, 2014. His 22 previous convictions include 21 for road traffic offences.
Garda Niall Cleary told Garrett Baker BL, prosecuting, that the funds were lodged by means of a forged cheque made payable to McKee but he agreed that gardai were satisfied that the accused had nothing to do with the lodgement.
Judge Melanie Greally accepted that it had not been a pre-meditated theft as the cash was something that fell into his lap. She said though that it was very dishonest and the bank was at a significant loss.
She remanded McKee on continuing bail until February 23 next and ordered that the Probation Service assess his for suitability for community service.
McKee was arrested after gardai viewed CCTV footage of him withdrawing the funds.
Gda Cleary said McKee has not come to garda attention since and said the offence was probably out of character.
Cathal O Braonain BL, defending told Judge Greally that his client had recently become a father and was having trouble securing full-time employment. He got part-time work as a labourer three weeks ago and had 500 in court to offer as compensation.
There was significant circumstantial evidence that a man who sued the Sunday World for libel was a drug importer, a lawyer for the newspaper has told the Supreme Court.
The submission by barrister Eoin McCullough SC was made as the seven-judge court reserved judgement on whether the Court of Appeal was correct when it overturned a 900,000 libel award against the newspaper.
Sligo man Martin McDonagh sued the Sunday World for damages arising out of an article published in 1999 entitled Traveller Drug King.
It was published while he was in custody being questioned over a major haul of ecstasy and cannabis in Tubbercurry, Co Sligo, but he was later released without charge.
A High Court jury found he had been libeled in 2008 and awarded him 900,000.
However, the Court of Appeal overturned the verdict last year, describing it as perverse as evidence in the trial pointed overwhelmingly to the conclusion McDonagh was a drug dealer associated with the drugs seizure.
It ordered a retrial on a separate allegation that McDonagh was a loan shark.
Appealing that ruling to the Supreme Court today, lawyers for McDonagh argued the jury verdict should not have been touched.
Declan Doyle SC said although his client had admitted being in the company of people involved in drug dealing, that did not make him a drug dealer.
But Mr McCullough countered that McDonagh had given no explanation for a trip to London days before the seizure where he met a man who was later convicted in connection with the drug haul.
I agree that it is not direct visual evidence of the plaintiff importing the drugs, but the Court of Appeal took it into account as extremely strong circumstantial evidence, Mr McCullough said.
The barrister said there was no explanation as to how McDonagh came to organise a trip to London where he ended up in the company of drug dealers.
No effective challenge was made to garda evidence during the trial, he said.
Mr McCullough said McDonagh had denied being a criminal or a tax cheat, but accepted he was when confronted with evidence.
He claimed in evidence the Criminal Assets Bureau had never accused him of drug dealing until evidence was put in front of him, the barrister said.
Mr McCullough said the Court of Appeal was correct when it determined the High Court verdict was one no reasonable jury could have come to and asked the Supreme Court to affirm the Court of Appeal ruling.
He said that if the Court of Appeal was found to be wrong, then the case should be remitted to the High Court for a retrial on all issues.
Earlier, counsel for McDonagh said the Court of Appeal should not have touched the jury verdict.
The question that went to the jury was had the defendants proved the plaintiff was a drug dealer. The jury answered no, said Mr Doyle.
The barrister also said the Court of Appeal erred in finding that evidence pointing to drug dealing was not challenged.
While garda witnesses were not challenged directly, claims McDonagh made certain admissions during a garda interview were contested in the stand.
It was simply wrong of the Court of Appeal to say it went unchallenged, said Mr Doyle.
He added that it had been put to gardai that their credibility was an issue in the case.
This was something the jury weighed when taking into account the evidence from both sides, he said.
Mr Doyle said that even if evidence from garda interview notes were accepted, they didnt amount to evidence of drug dealing, merely evidence of being with drug dealers.
He also disputed that McDonagh had organised the trip to London.
After hearing the submissions, Chief Justice Susan Denham said the court would deliver its judgment at a later date.
The teenager, who cannot be identified as he is a minor, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to burglary, dangerous driving and criminal damage to a bridge on April 13, 2016. (Stock picture)
A 17-year-old who crashed a stolen car into the river Liffey at Celbridge while being chased by gardai from a burglary scene has been given one years detention.
The court heard the teenager was arrested after being taken from the water but later released on bail because there was no suitable place for him to stay. Within 48 hours he had assaulted a man in his eighties, knocking him to the ground, as he stole the man's car.
The teenager, who cannot be identified as he is a minor, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to burglary, dangerous driving and criminal damage to a bridge on April 13, 2016.
He further pleaded guilty to unlawful use of a car, assault and driving without a licence or insurance on April 15, 2016. The teen has 11 previous convictions including public order offences, criminal damage, assault and possession of stolen property.
Judge Pauline Codd noted that a probation report before the court outlined that although the accused had initially indicated he was willing to engage with the probation services he later said he had no interest in doing so and his only motivation was a possible reduction in the sentence.
The accused boy told his defence counsel, Anne Marie Lawlor BL, that he was in a real bad humour when he met the probation officer who prepared the report.
He said he had been on 23 hour lock up for the two days prior to the meeting and was not in the humour for answering questions. He said he was now drug free and was willing to go to a drug counsellor or give urines. Whatever it takes, he told the judge.
He said when he was released he was going to stay clean, get back to family life and try to get a job.
He told Judge Codd he would fully co-operate and was willing to address his anger issues.
Ms Lawlor told the court the accused had ADHD and needed intervention and assistance going forward in his life. She said he was now completely drug free and willing to do whatever was necessary in order to progress his rehabilitation and re-engage with society in a positive way.
She said he was remorseful for what had happened to the elderly man
Judge Codd noted that under section 96 of the Children Act 2001 any penalty imposed on a child should take the least restrictive form that was appropriate in the circumstances and detention should be a last resort.
She said in the first offence it was lucky that neither himself nor a member of the public was seriously injured. She said in the second offence he had preyed on an easy target in the elderly man but noted his guilty plea and expressions of remorse.
She imposed a three year sentence of detention but suspended the final two years.
A FEARED thug has become one of the Kinahan cartels key enforcers in Dublin.
Jamie Griffin (21) has been causing terror since his release from jail in June.
Described as a complete loose cannon, the young criminal is now running the gangs activities and extortion rackets in the south inner city.
Everyone is terrified of him. Hes going around collecting debts on behalf of the cartel. The fear is that hes going to do serious damage to someone soon, a source said last night.
Griffin has been taking over cartel activities after a leading criminal connected to the Kinahans was jailed recently.
He is also suspected of a feud-related knife attack on murdered Gary Hutchs brother, Derek Del Boy Hutch, in Mountjoy Prison last year.
It is believed Griffin and his older brother Leon (26) were offered 10,000 by the cartel to carry out a merciless attack on the convicted armed robber.
Hutch suffered defensive slash wounds in the attack after three prison officers intervened and managed to restrain the Griffins.
Hutch is serving multiple sentences for offences including manslaughter, possession of a firearm and robbery and is considered a prime target for the cartel in their deadly feud with his associates.
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Speaking at the Prison Officers Association annual conference earlier this year, the organisations president, Stephen Delaney, said: The three officers, using only bare hands and courage, pulled Hutch from certain death.
Both brothers were moved from Mountjoy after the attack, with Leon transferred to Castlerea Prison in Co Roscommon and Jamie to Wheatfield Prison.
The Griffin brothers are considered to be among Irelands most volatile inmates and have amassed more than 40 P19 disciplinary reports between them in the past 18 months.
Sources said Jamie Griffin had been far worse behaved than his older brother and had come to the attention of the authorities for breaches of discipline, which included fighting and possession of contraband.
The Griffin brothers were also involved in a savage assault on high-profile criminal Wayne Bradley in Mountjoy Prison in December 2014 that resulted in Bradley needing three weeks of hospital treatment.
That beating led to fears of a gangland bloodbath.
Jamie Griffin, of Iveagh Trust Building, Dublin 8, pleaded guilty in March last year to a violent attack in Ladbrokes in Killinarden, Tallaght, on December 13, 2012.
Dublin Circuit Court heard he was part of a three-man gang who stabbed a customer and brutally assaulted another man there.
Griffin, who was already serving a six-year sentence for another offence, has 13 previous convictions, including for violent disorder.
The court heard gardai were called to the scene and both injured men were transferred to Tallaght Hospital.
One man had multiple stab wounds and the other a broken hand.
Ronan Kennedy, defending, told the court that Griffin expressed remorse and regret at what he had done and was seeking help for his aggression.
Judge Nolan took into acc-ount the fact that Griffin was only 17 at the time of the offence, and handed down a three-year custodial sentence with the last year suspended on condition that he be of good behaviour.
Sr Stan says something needs to be done on rising rent costs
A leading campaigner has called for immediate action to stem the flow of families into homelessness ahead of the Christmas season.
Sr Stan, who has worked with the homeless community for many years, said the Government must address climbing rents to stop the number of homeless families increasing.
Housing Minister Simon Coveney has consistently said the Government's new policies on homelessness will need time to work, but Sr Stan said more urgent action was needed.
"Really they have to think about something immediately to stop the flow and secondly they need an immediate response to people, to provide them with a decent place to stay, where they can live with dignity," she said.
"It's about rent really and something needs to be done about that. Otherwise the numbers will just increase and increase. A year ago I was here saying this.
"This is the job of the politicians, that's what we elect them for."
Focus Ireland is predicting that by Christmas there will be 2,500 children living in hotel rooms and B&Bs.
Read more: More children homeless than ever before, Focus Ireland charity reports
Read more: Desperate mum faces third Christmas in emergency accommodation with son
"It's not that they are in a B&B, they are in a room. They have one room and there might be three, four or five children. They have no place to play, no place to cook. They don't mix with others. It isn't like having a room in a hotel. It is awful," she told the Irish Independent.
"I hear people say 'sure aren't they grand', but it's not like you or I taking a room in a hotel. It's totally different; go back to the worst days of the tenements where you had all of the families living in one building.
"At least they had a dignity of a community. They knew each other, they grew up with each other.
"This is totally different they are in rooms separated from other people.
"It's quite different."
Sr Stan was speaking at the launch of Focus Ireland's Christmas appeal as the charity revealed its family team services have supported 230 families and almost 450 children in Dublin to secure a home this year, with the help of the homeless executive.
People can donate at www.focusireland.ie or 1850 204 205.
Professionals are actively making some children 'fit a certain category of disability in order for them to get a resource' even though they 'dont theoretically meet the actual label'
Children are being "unnecessarily labelled" with emotional and behavioural conditions in order to get additional educational resources.
In an extraordinary admission, the head of the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) said a practice known as 'diagnosis for dollars' in the United States is now happening here.
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Professionals are actively making some children "fit a certain category of disability in order for them to get a resource" even though they "don't theoretically meet the actual label".
NCSE chief executive Teresa Griffin said she had been told first-hand by professionals that they had purposely misdiagnosed children in primary schools.
"We think that's really bad that a child would be labelled simply to get an educational resource," she said.
Under the current system, students require a formal diagnosis of conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) before an extra teaching support is provided by the Department of Education.
This has led to a series of problems, including claims it reinforces disadvantage because parents from wealthier backgrounds can afford to pay for private consultations.
Many students in the public system are on long waiting lists and do not have the right to access special support until they receive a diagnosis.
The Department of Education told the Irish Independent it was aware of Ms Griffin's concerns and had been working with the NCSE to create a new model to distribute special resources. "The department would be concerned at the possibility that any child would be labelled unnecessarily and accordingly accepted and acted upon the advice received from the NCSE.
"The department has taken steps to address this concern and has developed the new model for allocating resource teaching supports which, when implemented, will remove the need for a diagnosis of a disability to ground the allocation of resources," a spokesperson said.
A date has not yet been set for the introduction of the new system, but the spokesperson said Education Minister Richard Bruton anticipated it would be approved by Cabinet in time for September 2017.
A guide for parents compiled by the NCSE states that many professionals "feel obliged" to label children as having a disability "simply to ensure that the school gets additional resource teaching hours".
And speaking at an Oireachtas hearing recently, Ms Griffin said the labels being attached to children would stick with them for life.
She said assessments should only be used to help teachers and parents understand a child's needs but not linked directly to resources.
She said: "It's assessment to inform parents on how to better support their children, but not necessarily to have a child labelled as ADHD or have a child labelled as having emotional behaviour disturbance."
Asked by Fianna Fail's education spokesman Thomas Byrne whether those carrying out the misdiagnoses could be guilty of professional misconduct, Ms Griffin replied: "We have actually raised it with some of the bodies and their view is that they are advocates as well."
The Department of Education said: "Where parents have concerns as to the resulting diagnosis or label applied to their children, they should, in the first instance, raise them with the diagnosing professional.
"If they are not satisfied with the response, they may raise the matter with the governing or regulatory body appropriate to the professional concerned."
Under the new plan, schools will have a larger say in deciding a child's support need, with over 10,000 support teachers assigned based on a school's profile rather than individual children.
Health Minister Simon Harris has backed a new move to clamp down on so-called "rogue crisis pregnancy advisers" who give distressed women false information.
Mr Harris has confirmed that he is accepting a draft law being put forward by Labour leader Brendan Howlin which provides for the first time that crisis pregnancy counsellors be registered and regulated.
The move follows revelations earlier this year that some counsellors who are avowedly against abortion give women false information to dissuade them. Some of the "information" given suggested that abortion increased breast cancer risks and could lead those who undergo it to become child abusers in later life.
"I was absolutely appalled to see the false, misleading and offensive information being provided to some women during a crisis pregnancy," said Mr Harris.
"Women deserve better and I had made it clear that I intended to act to improve this situation," the Health Minister added.
Mr Harris said that Mr Howlin's Bill gave him the first chance to signal a change of policy in this area.
He said some changes would have to be made to the draft law to ensure against unintended consequences, such as doctors being penalised for giving crisis pregnancy guidance.
Mr Howlin welcomed the minister's decision and urged all other parties to support the measure, due for Dail debate next Thursday.
"For too long, these agencies have been allowed to lie to women in the most grotesque fashion, and it's time we worked together on all sides of the House to put an end to this abuse," Mr Howlin said.
In September, the 'Times' led an investigation which discovered that a Dublin-based crisis pregnancy centre was giving women incorrect advice regarding their pregnancies.
THE cold-blooded murder of Anthony Campbell 10 years ago horrified the nation.
The December 12 shooting saw Anthony gunned down as he worked on radiators in a house belonging to a niece of gang boss Martin Marlo Hyland in Finglas, North Dublin.
Anthony (20) was working as an apprentice plumber at the time and had no involvement in crime.
He did not know that Hyland was sleeping upstairs and had been using the home as a safe house.
It is believed Anthony opened the door to his killers.
His inquest revealed the young man had his hands held up in a defensive posture, covering his face, at the time of the murder.
He died from a single gunshot wound to the head and was shot at close range.
The bullet passed through his left arm into his head, killing him almost instantly.
Meanwhile, Hyland was shot six times as he lay sleeping upstairs.
The gangster was concerned about threats to his life at the time.
Despite 14 arrests during the investigation nobody was ever convicted of the brutal double murder.
Gardai believe Eamon The Don Dunne was behind the hit and ordered the murder of his former boss Hyland.
Dunne himself died in a hail of bullets when a gunman opened fire on him in a Cabra pub in April 2010.
Anthonys murder was a tragic example of an innocent man in the wrong place at the wrong time.
He and his boss had been due to carry out a quick repair job on the house owned by Hylands niece the night before the murder.
However, they were too tired after a busy days work and moved the job to the following morning.
Taoiseach Enda Kenny has said he will raise the detention of a Dublin student with Egypt's president again - after the trial was delayed for a 16th time.
It will be the latest in a series of contacts between Mr Kenny and president Abdel Fattah el-Sisi over the Ibrahim Halawa case.
Mr Kenny has twice raised it in face-to-face meetings with el-Sisi and has also written to him over delays in Mr Halawa's trial which was held up again yesterday.
The case has been adjourned until December 13, his 21st birthday. Mr Halawa was arrested in August 2013 at a protest in a mosque in Cairo.
Mr Kenny said he was very disappointed at the 16th adjournment in the case.
And he said el-Sisi had told him he could not interfere in Egypt's judicial process.
"He (el-Sisi) has said he can only use his Presidential pardon powers once the case has been delivered on," said the Taoiseach.
He said the Government is also supporting an appeal for the student's deportation to Ireland under Egyptian law 140.
"I am concerned about this. It seems to be a case of a different issue every time there is a postponement of the case.
"We would like to see the case heard so that there can be a conclusion to it.
"It is my intention to contact President el-Sisi again as a matter of urgency, probably in the next week."
Egypt has denied claims he has been tortured. The case was adjourned at the weekend because some of the 493 co-accused were unable to appear in court.
The student's London-based barrister Katie O'Byrne said she wasn't surprised by the latest delay.
She said: "It is not legitimate to hold a trial for 494 people in a mass trial and it is not legitimate to delay a case for three and a half years.
"We're not aware there is any evidence at all against our client which underlines the point he cannot have a fair trial."
She said it is still unclear what specific charges Mr Halawa faces because of the limited documents released by the Egyptian prosecutors.
Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan said he spoke to the Egyptians at the weekend to protest about the latest delay. Embassy staff attended the hearing to monitor the latest adjournment.
Mr Halawa has spent 1,184 days in prison. Amnesty International has declared him a Prisoner of Conscience, based on its own eye-witness evidence "that he could not have carried out the acts he is accused of".
The Paris Agreement commits countries to cutting greenhouse gas emissions to net zero to stop dangerous climate change
Minister for Climate Change Denis Naughten will this week highlight the success of Ireland's plastic bag levy during climate change talks in Morocco.
It is expected that European environment and marine ministers will sign a 'Declaration of Intent' aimed at tackling plastic bag pollution.
The plastic bag levy was introduced in Ireland in 2002 and was a first of its kind, resulting in a 90pc reduction in the use of plastic bags.
Mr Naughten begins a four-day trip to Marrakesh today to participate in UN talks on the Paris Agreement.
He will lead the Irish delegation for the political phase of COP22 the global Climate Change summit.
Discussions will focus on how best to implement the agreement, including how to measure and report emissions so that countries can be held accountable.
The agreement, signed by 196 countries across the world, aims to fight global warming by curbing the rise in greenhouse gas emissions, primarily carbon dioxide from fossil fuels.
It was officially ratified by Ireland on November 4.
"Ireland has shown a strong commitment to playing its part both domestically and on the global stage.
"Since playing a role in reaching the Paris Agreement last year and enacting our first ever climate legislation, we have also been engaging with the European Union on our commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 40% by 2030, Minister Naughten said.
I look forward to joining with the EU in moving forward to implementing the Paris Agreement and also intend to take the opportunity to meet with some of Ireland's key overseas partners to discuss the range of actions being taken around the world to reduce emissions and adapt to the adverse effects of climate change. Ireland's team here at COP22 includes representatives of our key sectors as we coordinate both our engagement on the international stage and our actions back home.
A man in his thirties has been shot in the back during an attack in which masked man forced their way into a house.
The man also suffered a head injury during the attack in the Bann Road area of Ballymoney, Antrim at about 7pm on Sunday.
The victim was taken to the Causeway Hospital where his condition has been described as serious but stable.
The suspects are believed to have fled in the direction of Bendooragh in a car.
North Antrim DUP MLA Mervyn Storey described the attack as barbaric.
He said: "This is not what our community wants.
"Whatever the motive and whoever was involved, this type of action is to be condemned in the strongest possible way. I would encourage anyone with any information to contact the PSNI."
Police said they are working to establish a motive.
Detective Inspector Bob Blemmings has appealed to anyone with information to contact police in Coleraine on 101 quoting reference 1068 13/11/16.
Traditional Unionist Voice leader Jim Allister said he was shocked and saddened by the shooting.
He said: "This sort of incident would be shocking at any time but it is particularly horrifying on Remembrance Sunday when our thoughts turn to the sacrifices made for freedom. It deserves to be condemned in the strongest possible terms.
"I would appeal for anyone with information to come forward to the police.
"It is imperative that those responsible for this attack are brought to justice."
Three people are now doing his old job as Environment Minister, Labour firebrand Alan Kelly muses. In the departmental re-jig done last May, Heather Humphreys has taken on community affairs; Denis Naughten is responsible for climate change; and Simon Coveney retains housing and local government.
The 41-year-old Tipperary TD is still less than a decade in elected politics. Yet he has been a Senator, MEP, TD, and junior and senior government minister. His two years as Environment Minister were extremely tough as he fought a losing battle on water charges and grappled with a housing crisis.
Last May, as Labour deputy leader, he went on the 'Late Late Show' to announce his bid to lead his party which had suffered an electoral meltdown and was reduced from 37 to seven TDs. But none of his colleagues would second his bid to trigger a ballot of members and the veteran Brendan Howlin was appointed leader.
It was a very tough time, but he wants to move on and make his mark, as spokesman on social welfare, health and housing. Six months ago he was in Cabinet alongside many of the ministers he is now attacking - but he says he is unabashed.
"No, I don't just tear into them. I take a more considered approach. But where I see hypocrisy and incompetence, I speak my mind," he says.
But on water charges, Mr Kelly insists he will be proven right very soon once a special commission reports to the Oireachtas. Given the "outrageous situation" of raw sewage running into our lakes, rivers and shorelines at 44 different locations, reasonable water charges were the only funding option for an ageing, deficient system, he says.
Other demands will always trump long-term spending on water, so a new revenue source was required. "But Paul Murphy won a by-election which Sinn Fein felt they should have won. That made Gerry Adams and Mary Lou McDonald change their mind on water charges. And that led Fianna Fail, the party most committed to charges, to follow suit," says Kelly.
Fianna Fail committed to water charges three times. When they put in the EU water basin submission, they gave away a derogation. In October 2009, they agreed charges with the Green Party and conceded this to the Troika in November 2010.
The EU "polluter pays" law means we must have charges and the special commission will have to recognise this.
"We will have to bring back charges. It's just a question of what charges," he says.
Labour is struggling in the opinion polls and having difficulty getting its message heard. But Mr Kelly insists, that in the medium to longer term, the AAA-PBP, which he calls the "alphabet party", and Sinn Fein will not retain people's confidence.
"There is room for a straight-talking party which supports working people. I won't be popular for the sake of being popular. In fact, it infuriates me. People know you cannot have everything for nothing and there is no future in telling them they can," he adds.
Mr Kelly argues that people need straight and realistic talk. The tax base must be widened with things like local property tax and water charges, and everything cannot be funded out of tax on work.
He argues passionately about the need to prioritise work and ensure working people are paid to a standard where they can afford a modest family meal and pay for school books and other necessaries without fear or stress.
These are arguments many will support - but the danger is that right now few are listening to the Labour Party.
Quotes from Alan Kelly's political world
On constituency rival Michael Lowry:
"In fairness, the only thing we have in common is a love of Tipperary GAA. I have very little to do with him and I don't intend ever having much to do with him."
On his predecessor as environment minister, and now EU Commissioner, Phil Hogan:
"I inherited the environment post from Mr Phil Hogan, which left me with a lot of legacy issues - and not just water.
"There were community grants, water and, of course, housing, which took up more time than anything else."
On his dislike of AAA-PBP (which he calls "the alphabet party") and Sinn Fein:
"The 'alphabet party' have no credibility. They are the most populist of all, along with Sinn Fein.
"They are telling people they can have everything for nothing - but it all means working people are paying for everything out of taxes on their work."
On Labour joining future coalitions:
"I believe in government because it is the only way to implement your policies. I have an open mind, but I wouldn't like Sinn Fein and the left-wing lunatics. It could be with Fine Gael or with Fianna Fail. But it doesn't have to be them. God knows where politics is going to be in the next 20 years. But I intend to be around."
On failing to get a seconder to put his leadership bid to a ballot of Labour members:
"I wouldn't have felt great about that. Of course I was disappointed. I believe the membership would have supported me. Will I stand again? I definitely will."
On the need to prioritise work over welfare:
"I support welfare, especially for pensioners and disabled people. But welfare for able-bodied people should not be a lifestyle choice. There must be a premium on work and working people must get a decent rate of pay."
Labour TD Alan Kelly has castigated the performance of Jobs Minister Mary Mitchell O'Connor, saying her inability to answer basic questions was "the worst I have seen in my 10 years in politics".
The Labour TD risks reigniting controversy about the embattled minister who has been subject to fierce criticism recently. But he insists gender is not the issue - it's about competence.
The Tipperary TD also has strong criticisms of Housing Minister Simon Coveney, though he is more flattering about the performance of Health Minister Simon Harris. However, he warns that the Department of Health does not have an adequate budget and the funding shortfall will inevitably be revisited in the coming months.
The former environment minister has said he was appalled by Ms Mitchell's O'Connor's handling of basic Dail questions posed by him.
"It was the worst I have seen in a minister in my 10 years in politics. And I'm not going to allow anyone to push me into a female-male row here now. It's purely a question of competence," he said.
Mr Kelly said the minister told the Dail that a special cabinet sub-committee was dealing with Brexit. But then she could not say how many times it had met. "Even from memory, you would know that - even if it was not written down in front of you," he said.
Expand Close Alan Kelly Photo: Frank McGrath / Facebook
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On Housing Minister Mr Coveney, who followed him in the revamped Environment Department, he was also strongly critical.
"He keeps announcing things. Yes, I was accused of making a lot of announcements. But I didn't do a video with myself all over it. I laid the groundwork for much of what he is now doing. The problem is it takes four to five years to see results."
But he was more flattering about Health Minister Simon Harris, who he is also "marking" along with Ministers Mitchell O'Connor and Harris.
"I find Harris is somebody I can work with. He's got great energy. But energy is not enough when you don't have a real health budget. The funding is insufficient and we will have to come back to it again."
Mr Kelly's comments came before another opinion poll showed Labour is struggling in popularity rankings. In the Behaviour & Attitudes poll for the 'Sunday Times', the party is on 3pc, and down two points on its October rating.
Fianna Fail is rated the most popular party on 30pc while Fine Gael is up 2pc to 28pc.
Read more: 'I don't care what people say behind my back,' insists Mitchell O'Connor
There is further good news for Taoiseach Enda Kenny as the Independent Alliance, which has four members of the government team, is also up two points to 5pc, something which may help steady the minority coalition.
The '5 Budget' with increased welfare payments may have also helped the Government's overall approval rating, which has increased by three points. Just over one third of those polled, or 34pc, now approve of this minority Coalition.
The AAA-PBP is up 1pc to 3pc while Sinn Fein is unchanged on 17pc. Independents, which include rural TDs and leftist 'Independents4Change' groups, are on 11pc.
Undated handout photo taken with permission from the Facebook page of Ballyglass Coast Guard Unit of a makeshift solar-powered houseboat that has washed up on an Irish beach after apparently drifting across the Atlantic Ocean from Canada. Photo: Ballyglass Coast Guard Unit/PA Wire
A MAKESHIFT solar-powered houseboat has washed up on an Irish beach after apparently drifting across the Atlantic Ocean from Canada.
Authorities say the owner was intending to sail on the "floating caravan" but was talked out of it before it broke loose from its mooring in Newfoundland within the last few months.
Locals in Co Mayo on Ireland's west coast were startled by the unusual sighting on Cross Beach, which sparked an emergency rescue mission by lifeboat and coast guard crews.
While no-one was found aboard the 20ft timber and polystyrene boat, a message scrawled inside gave a clue to its origins.
"I, Rick Small, donate this structure to a homeless youth to give them a better life that Newfoundlanders choose not to do!" it said.
"No rent, no mortgage, no hydro."
Expand Close Undated handout photo taken with permission from the Facebook page of Ballyglass Coast Guard Unit of a message scrawled inside a makeshift solar-powered houseboat: Ballyglass Coast Guard Unit/PA Wire / Facebook
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Whatsapp Undated handout photo taken with permission from the Facebook page of Ballyglass Coast Guard Unit of a message scrawled inside a makeshift solar-powered houseboat: Ballyglass Coast Guard Unit/PA Wire
Rick Small is an eco-adventurer from Ontario who travelled 7,000 kilometres (4,375 miles) across Canada, from British Columbia to Newfoundland, on a solar-powered tricycle.
The Irish Coast Guard have been in contact with their Canadian counterparts in Halifax.
"They said the owner was hoping to cross the Atlantic in it, but they managed to discourage him," a spokesman said.
"It was last seen in Portugal Cove in Newfoundland during the summer and it broke loose.
"The Halifax authorities were amazed it made it to Ireland and was in one piece."
Michael Hurst, of the Ballyglass Coast Guard Unit in Co Mayo, was one of the first at the scene when the vessel washed ashore.
"I didn't know what to think, I was just concerned about safety and securing it," he said.
"Then I thought: where in the name of God did this come from and who built it?"
Mr Hurst described the houseboat as like a "floating caravan" made from timber off-cuts, polystyrene, spray foam and Perspex windows with solar panels.
It is around 20ft long, 10ft high and about 12ft wide, he said.
"I wouldn't like to go out on it," he added. "But if you were homeless, it would be like a castle."
Mr Hurst went to the scene on Sunday evening after alerting Malin Head Coast Guard to the sighting.
Crews used ropes to secure the vessel, which will now be handed over to Mayo County Council.
Locals are already talking about restoring it for use as an attraction on the Wild Atlantic Way tourist route.
Trevor Devereux, an employee of O'Flaherty's trawling company with one of eight Bluefin tuna fish caught
A trawling company which recently caught eight Bluefin tuna fish off the coast of Wexford says it made just 5,000, when it could have received up to 100,000 for each fish.
Due to Irelands fishing quotas, fishermen are not permitted to catch and sell Bluefin fish, which are protected under Irish law.
Employees of OFlahertys Brothers Limited, based in Kilmore Quay, Co. Wexford accidently caught eight of the fish which have been frequenting Irish waters.
In Japan, they can fetch up to 100,000 due to high demand, as the Bluefin is a popular form of sushi.
The Sea Fisheries Protection Agency granted a waiver to allow OFlahertys to sell them for a total sum of 5,000.
However, Seamus OFlaherty, one of the owners of the company, says Irelands economy could be benefitting a lot more from the influx of the extremely valuable fish.
These fish are worth a fortune. While we got some money for them, we got nothing compared to what we could have done if we sold them to an established market in Japan, which were not allowed to do, Mr OFlaherty told Independent.ie.
Its a tragedy because there is a very valuable fishery off the Irish coast and the only people who are allowed to partake in it are the Spanish and French.
There are a number of fishing programmes devoted to catching these big tuna, and Irelands tourism industry and economy could be benefitting much better than we are, he added.
Mr OFlaherty says recommendations had been made to former Minister for Marine Simon Coveney to introduce a proper quota for Bluefin tuna due to the high numbers of them swimming in Irish waters.
However, the fisherman claims that it wont be introduced.
The Spanish and French would have to give up some quota in order for this to happen, which basically means we have to ask the French and Spanish is it okay for us to fish off our own coast.
You would wonder why we are celebrating the independence gained in 1916; we dont seem to be very independent.
In Australia, their economy makes thousands from fishing Black Marlin and making documentaries about them. Ireland could be doing the exact same with the Bluefin.
Every year, the European Community fishing quotas are determined at the December meeting of the Council of Ministers held in Brussels.
According to the Sea Fisheries Protection Agency website, quotas are published in an annual Total Allowable Catch Regulation; this legislation fixes the fishing opportunities for certain fish stocks and groups of fish stocks, applicable in Union waters and, to Union vessels, in certain non-Union waters.
Bluefin tuna arent included in the quotas.
Requests have previously been made in the Dail for a three tonne quota to be introduced for the fish.
Irish laws states: A master may not catch, land or retain on board a boat, Bluefin Tuna, other than in accordance with a fishing authorisation as defined in the Control Regulation.
What time of year is acceptable to hang up Christmas decorations is a subject which divides Irish people every year.
There are those who think the earlier the better... and those who who put up their tree two days before December 25.
Independent.ie took to the streets of Dublin to see if people are feeling more like Santa or Scrooge this November.
Watch the video above
If Coppers is where people meet each other these days when they're not on Tinder, the romantic hearts of the 1980s used to frequent basement clubs in Leeson Street into the wee small hours. Suzie Monaghan and her husband Eddie Goggins are typical of a young couple of that time, as they met at Leggs in 1989 when they were 21.
"My friends and I had only arrived and were standing on the steps, when Eddie came over and asked me to dance," Suzie recalls. "He was a dentistry student and the champagne on offer was crazily expensive, so he got us a jug of orange juice instead, which cost around 15."
Eddie wasn't looking for a wife that night and had to gather his courage to approach Suzie, but once he spotted her, he immediately made his move. "Unusually, I didn't hesitate, because she was clearly the most stunning girl in the place and I knew she wouldn't be standing on her own for long," he says. "She was way out of my league, but there was a chance there and I took it."
Suzie and Eddie chatted for the night, and when her friend Moira asked if she had invited him to another friend's party the following night, Suzie kicked her under the table because she hadn't decided if she wanted to bring him. "Unfortunately, Eddie saw me kicking her, and still reminds me of it to this day," she laughs. Happily, Cinders-Eddie went to the ball, and the young couple became an item. They were together for six years prior to getting married, three of which were spent dating long-distance as Eddie was working in the UK. After their wedding reception was over, they went to Leggs at the end of the night, back to where it all began. It is still open, and these days has a full and reasonably-priced bar!
Suzie is from Leopardstown and is the youngest of Teresa and Tom Monaghan's four children. Her dad Tom owns Monaghans Cashmere in Royal Hibernian Way, and her beloved mum, whom she describes as "strong, soft and caring" has sadly had Alzheimer's for 11 years. She is cared for at home, and the family consider themselves fortunate that they can keep her with them. After boarding at Mount Sackville, Suzie did a secretarial course and worked at several jobs, including as a PA in banking and driving the FM104 promotional jeep. She was working in Minnie Peters when she met Eddie.
He grew up in New York until he was 12, and then his family moved to Roscommon, which was a massive culture shock. His mum Ita is from Galway and she had moved to New York to work as a nurse, and met his late dad Michael, whose parents were Irish. Eddie is the second-youngest of their six children, although sadly his brother John passed away in an accident when he was only eight and Eddie was seven. His dad died four years ago and his "amazing" mum now lives in Naas. Eddie went to boarding school at St Nathy's in Roscommon, and to Trinity to study dentistry. He set up his practice 17 years ago, and it has just rebranded from Cabinteely Dental Care to Dublin 18 Dental Rooms. There are three other dentists and a visiting oral surgeon.
Now both 48, Suzie and Eddie have two children, Hailey 19, and Eddie, 16. Hailey is in first year of marketing and French at DIT, and Eddie is in fifth year at Blackrock College. Becoming parents happened quicker than they had planned, as Suzie discovered she was pregnant when they were married six months and she was in the middle of a diploma in interior design. "I didn't know how to tell Eddie so I bought a card and literally just wrote, 'We're pregnant' on it and left it on his desk for when he came in," she laughs.
Suzie worked in interior design for a few years, and was responsible for the redesign of Eddie's dental practice. She has been working with her dad at Monaghans Cashmere for the past four years. The store was founded by her parents in 1960, with the aim of selling the most luxurious cashmere and woollen garments, and is renowned for the lovely personal touch customers receive, and the high quality of the cashmere.
Suzie has just designed her own women's sweater range, Suzie Monaghan Cashmere, which she describes as classic with a bit of a contemporary twist. The cashmere comes from the cashmere goat from inner Mongolia. The goats are treated extremely well and the cashmere is sourced by brushing their necks and bellies, where the softest hair grows. Her range has five gorgeous pieces in many colours, and she is looking to expand to baby, interior and male ranges next year.
While life is busy, Suzie and Eddie walk their dogs, Coco and Roxy, together, which allows them to catch up. They also have a date night on Fridays after the busy week. They say they are both stubborn, but Suzie still thinks Eddie is gorgeous and loves that he is humble. "I know he adores me, and he is kind and generous."
"I'm full of energy, but Suzie steers me," Eddie chimes in. "She's a people person, and genuinely has a really great heart and loads of passion. You could never have a dull day with Suzie in your life."
www.monaghanscashmere.ie www.dublin18dentalrooms.ie
'Aww, Bless," is, to my mind, the most patronising, condescending thing a person can say. And yet the entire time I spend with Eddie Redmayne, it's right there on the tip of my tongue and it is a struggle to keep it from passing my lips.
Rationally I know I am sitting with a 34-year-old man, an actor of such accomplishment that he swept up an Oscar, a Golden Globe, a BAFTA and a Screen Actors Guild Award for best actor for his role as Stephen Hawking in The Theory of Everything. The following year he was again nominated for all of the above for his role as transgender pioneer Lili Elbe in The Danish Girl. He's also won a Tony Award.
I know all of this. But my brain keeps telling me that I'm with a very exuberant teenage boy - the type any mother would be proud to call her son. It's not that Redmayne is especially youthful looking and he certainly doesn't have that supernatural "glow" that only access to the very best healthcare and cosmetics can bring (there are actually some, gasp, lines on his face). Unlike his old classmate Prince William, he also has a fine head of hair. Yes, Redmayne is posh - very posh, he went to Eton followed by Cambridge and, as such, has found himself frequently lumped in with other posh actors (such as Tom Hiddleston, Damian Lewis and Dominic West) in the on-going UK debate around whether only the privileged can afford to go into the arts.
Despite his "pedigree", in person the actor's poshness seems to be contained to his good manners. He's not stodgy though, he exudes energy and exuberance - it's these qualities coupled with the jumper he's wearing that give him the aura of a teenager. Small wonder then that he is the latest "Boy Wizard" to hit cinema screens, as Newt Scamander in JK Rowling's Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.
During our time together Redmayne frequently talks about his wife, PR executive Hannah Bagshawe, who he obviously adores. (The couple married in 2014 and their daughter Iris was born earlier this year.) It's this that's triggering my inner "Aww, Bless". Every time Redmayne says the words "my wife" I have to suppress the urge to pat him on the arm.
As we speak, it becomes clear that Redmayne possesses a wonderful imagination. While telling me about the rather unique audition process for what is sure to be one of the biggest blockbusters of the year, it becomes apparent that the star can spin a good yarn himself. Redmayne has my rapt attention as he unfolds his tale of several meetings with director David Yates (Tarzan and the last four Harry Potter films).
"I didn't know anything about it, it was all super-cryptic and David invited me to a club in Soho, he was sitting by a fire and he started telling me this story." I'm picturing him in a smoking jacket I say, "Practically," he replies before continuing, "and every few months, because JK Rowling hadn't finished the script yet, I'd go back for another instalment."
While he may not have the cut-glass accent of many of his school and university contemporaries, Redmayne does have the self-deprecating air of a true Englishman. "I have this little case," he tells me. "It's my work case. I take it to set and the first time I met David, it's the most embarrassing thing, I'd come straight from work and I'd brought this little case and half way through he says 'and Newt has this case...'
"There was an embarrassing time when I was starting out as an actor, that lots of us would get dressed up for auditions to basically look like the guy," he says with a laugh.
"You'd put a weird Napoleon outfit on for the Napoleon part... so when David said about the case I felt really embarrassed and said, 'I promise I didn't know this; I didn't come with the case deliberately'."
I'm similarly entranced when the actor tells me about how he proposed to his wife. "In the middle of nowhere, in the hills outside of Florence. About two minutes after I proposed, and you're having that moment of absolute excitement, and then round the corner come two tourists." (He puts on a typical Valley Girl accent) 'Oh my God, can I have a selfie?'" Most people would be quite within their rights to tell strangers to butt out at such a moment but I get the impression this was never an option with Redmayne and tellingly he adds: "There is a selfie out there somewhere of literally seconds after we got engaged."
While Fantastic Beasts is set in New York in the 1920s, the plot has been shrouded in secrecy. Advance trailers show actor Colin Farrell in a role that has "baddie" written all over it. Given the imagery, it looks as if there is some sort of wizarding parallel being drawn between Colin Farrell's character and the rise of Fascist leaders in the interwar period in Europe.
Redmayne won't be drawn further than saying. "I think everyone knows that JK Rowling is incredibly politically engaged and is, I think, a formidable artist and what great artists do is reflect what is going on in the world. There are many themes in the film, about segregation, about repression, that are absolutely woven into the piece and the danger of those things."
Similarly, Redmayne can't say enough nice things about Farrell. "It was wonderful (working with him). I've always admired Colin and he has a great reputation of being an incredibly kind man and he was."
Redmayne goes on to tell me about going to Comic Con (a massive convention for fans of movies, fantasy, science fiction and comics). "We went to Comic Con to present this film, it's totally insane and crazy. I had to go on in front of thousands of people and... I'm not built for that, I don't know how to do that, and I was really nervous. Before I went on, Colin gave me a pep talk. He's a very generous man."
Despite Colin Farrell's intervention, the convention wasn't without hiccups. "I handed out 5,000 wands (Newt's wand) but then when I got back on stage, I was supposed to do a spell and realised I'd handed out my own wand as well. I had to run off stage and ask to borrow a wand. I did the spell and... this girl was waiting to take back her wand. I thought, 'wait a minute, everybody in that room has a Newt wand except me.'"
The truth is, Eddie Redmayne doesn't really need a wand to weave magic.
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them opens nationwide November 18
A road is cordoned off by the state highway 7a, near the Waiau Ferry Bridge after the 7.8 magnitude Hanmer Earthquake, near Hanmer Springs, in New Zealand, Monday, Nov. 14, 2016. (David Alexander/SPNA via AP)
WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND - NOVEMBER 14: Amora Hotel guests gather in a carpark after an earthquake. Photo by Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images
Three cows are stranded on an island of grass in a paddock that had been ripped apart following an earthquake near Kaikoura, New Zealand
WAIAU, NEW ZEALAND - NOVEMBER 14: The Waiau Lodge Hotel, in Waiau, 120 kms north of Christchurch, shows damage in the aftermath of a 7.5 magnitude earthquake. Photo by Matias Delacroix/Getty Images
Aerial photo on November 14, 2016 shows earthquake damage to State Highway One near Ohau Point on New Zealand's South Island's east coast. Photo: MARK MITCHELL/AFP/Getty Images
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - NOVEMBER 14: The Sky Tower is illuminated Black and White as as a sign of solidarity after a 7.5 magnitude earthquake. Photo by Fiona Goodall/Getty Images
New Zealands South Island has been struck by a 7.8-magnitude earthquake, which has left two people dead.
The initial quake has been followed by a series of smaller tremors, including one that measured magnitude 6.3.
Some communities have been left without power, and aftershocks have caused landslides, dammed rivers and downed power cables.
Where has been hit?
The quake struck just outside the town of Kaikoura, a popular tourist resort some 110 miles north of Christchurch.
Local authorities claim the main road into Kaikoura has been cut off by landslides, adding that telecommunications, water and power supplies have also been severed. People are currently being airlifted to safety from the town.
Expand Close Aerial photo on November 14, 2016 shows earthquake damage to State Highway One near Ohau Point on New Zealand's South Island's east coast. Photo: MARK MITCHELL/AFP/Getty Images / Facebook
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Whatsapp Aerial photo on November 14, 2016 shows earthquake damage to State Highway One near Ohau Point on New Zealand's South Island's east coast. Photo: MARK MITCHELL/AFP/Getty Images
A tsunami warning for the South Islands northeast coast was issued but has since been called off.
The quake was felt as far afield as Wellington on the North Island, where local authorities have been clearing up debris and checking buildings for structural damage.
Though the earthquake was more powerful than the one that struck Christchurch nearly exactly five years ago, which killed 182 people and destroyed many buildings, it has wrought significantly less devastation.
That said, the quake is thought to have caused significant damage to the South Islands infrastructure; many highways have cracked or been blocked by landslides.
Expand Close WAIAU, NEW ZEALAND - NOVEMBER 14: The Waiau Lodge Hotel, in Waiau, 120 kms north of Christchurch, shows damage in the aftermath of a 7.5 magnitude earthquake. Photo by Matias Delacroix/Getty Images / Facebook
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Whatsapp WAIAU, NEW ZEALAND - NOVEMBER 14: The Waiau Lodge Hotel, in Waiau, 120 kms north of Christchurch, shows damage in the aftermath of a 7.5 magnitude earthquake. Photo by Matias Delacroix/Getty Images
Is the area popular with tourists?
Kaikoura attracts roughly one million tourists annually, most of whom come to admire the local marine life.
Kaikoura is renowned for its resident sperm whales and other leviathan species that visit in winter, says New Zealand travel expert, Sarah Bennett.
Swimming with dolphins and spotting albatrosses are also popular activities in the town, which is overlooked by the spectacular snow-capped peaks of the Kaikoura Ranges.
Expand Close WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND - NOVEMBER 14: Amora Hotel guests gather in a carpark after an earthquake. Photo by Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images / Facebook
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In 2004, Kaikoura became the first town in the world to gain accreditation under the Green Globe scheme, which recognised its positive contributions to people and planet through ecotourism.
Have airports and roads been affected?
None of New Zealand's airports have been affected by the quake, but many roads and railways have been ripped up or blocked by landslides.
It looks as though it's the infrastructure that's the biggest problem, said civil defence minister, Gerry Brownlee. Although I don't want to take away from the suffering... and terrible fright so many people have had.
What to do if you are there?
Expand Close Three cows are stranded on an island of grass in a paddock that had been ripped apart following an earthquake near Kaikoura, New Zealand / Facebook
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New Zealand authorities are still warning of the risk of aftershocks in the area. And while the tsunami warning has been lifted, people staying near the coast are advised to exercise extreme care, especially given that bad weather is predicted.
A statement on the Civil Defence website reads:
Based on all available data, the tsunami threat has now passed. However, coasts may still experience unusual, strong currents and sea level fluctuations lasting for several more hours. People are advised to stay vigilant in and around coastal waters.
Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs has advised any citizens with concerns to contact the Embassy of Ireland in Canberra at 0061 2 6214 0000, or the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Dublin at 01 408-2000.
It advises all citizens to follow the advice of local authorities.
People travelling around the South Island by road are advised to follow local advice as there are many highway closures that will impact journeys.
It is not currently possible to travel to Kaikoura, where a state of emergency currently exists.
Can I cancel my trip?
In short, no. And it's not necessary to do so, either.
"Much of New Zealand remains unaffected," said a spokesperson for New Zealand Tourism. "All airports are open and operational in New Zealand. It appears the greatest impact is in rural North Canterbury, Kaikoura and Wellington, although information is still being confirmed."
If your trip has been affected by the earthquakes, then your tour operator will be contractually obliged to provide suitable alternative arrangements or offer a refund.
If you simply want to cancel your trip out of choice, it is unlikely you will be entitled to a refund. Contact your tour operator, accommodation or your insurer to discuss your options.
Are quakes in New Zealand common?
New Zealand sits on the so-called "Ring of Fire," an arc of seismic faults around the Pacific Ocean where earthquakes are common.
The nation of 4.7 million people is still recovering from heavy quakes in 2010 and 2011, which killed 185 people and caused billions in damage to the city.
For more info, see civildefence.govt.nz/.
Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022]
What type of parent would want their child to be diagnosed with a disability?
What type of doctor would 'label' a child with an illness they don't have?
The two questions should have the same answer: "No parent and no doctor."
But the reality for many families is that they feel the need to cheat a broken system.
So a desperate parent, who feels the only way to get the help their son or daughter needs, finds a compassionate medic who only wants to help.
This is not just a case of lying on a form, it can impact in any number of unimaginable ways.
"If you apply for a visa to America, you are asked if you have ever been diagnosed with having an emotional behaviour [disorder]," Teresa Griffin, CEO of the National Council for Special Education, noted while speaking with politicians in recent weeks.
"I don't know what the implications of saying 'yes I have' are. I just know I wouldn't like to lie to the US authorities."
There are certain types of insurance where such health issues can affect your premium, and then there is the stigma.
But faced with a choice between getting some extra resources and none, it's easy to see why many parents get children to play up symptoms or encourage a medic to give a more serious diagnosis than is warranted.
Jim Mulkerrins, principal officer in the Department of Education, told an Oireachtas committee that it "has never been the case that labelling should have been a requirement in order to generate additional resources".
Changes are on the way that should see over 10,000 existing special education teachers allocated to schools in line with their level of need for additional support rather than individual cases.
But it can't come quick enough because a label is for life.
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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.
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John Downing Opinion New British prime minister Rishi Sunaks succession proves an important milestone in British political inclusivity
There is an old saying in British politics that goes: The right looks for converts while the left seeks out traitors. It comes to mind when one reflects upon the election of Rishi Sunak as the UKs first non-white prime minister in a party traditionally seen as most opposed to mass immigration and the dilution of national identity via multiculturalism.
The special educational need services, within schools, are a scarce and hard-to-access resource. As a practising clinical psychologist I frequently meet children in real difficulty, socially, emotionally, academically and/or behaviourally.
I'm well aware that any one of these kinds of difficulties could impact negatively on a child's education unless they get targeted, additional help in school. I know they need extra resources and I am part of the system that determines if they are eligible to receive them.
At the moment, the only route to getting such help is to have a clear and unambiguous diagnosis from a professional like me (usually a psychologist or psychiatrist depending on the issue). That diagnosis must fit very strict criteria in order to unlock the educational resources.
I think everyone within the system sees that the current model we operate within is flawed. Even with the best will in the world, the needs of a child and a true understanding of the whole child can get easily lost once they have been diagnosed, and labelled, with a particular psychological or psychiatric "disability".
Teachers, parents and professionals can end up thinking about a child, only with reference to their diagnosed difficulty.
Once a child is diagnosed with something like ADHD or Severe Emotional and Behavioural Disorder (SEBD), it tends to define their school life. Everyone comes to know this about a child and that can be good (when it leads to understanding and patience), or bad (when it leads to prejudice or inaccurate assumptions).
Reading the comments attributed to Teresa Griffin, the head of the National Council for Special Education (NCSE), that professionals are actively making some children "fit a certain category of disability in order for them to get a resource" even though they "don't theoretically meet the actual label", makes it sound like it is some conspiracy between parents and professionals to defraud the system.
Mind you, if some professionals are actively and deliberately misdiagnosing children, in order to ensure those children get access to an additional educational resource, that is morally and ethically wrong.
But I don't believe professionals have corrupted the system for resourcing children with special needs. It was flawed from its inception. By tying resources to specific diagnoses, rather than assessed educational need, those who determined the policy created the issue.
Especially where a child's difficulty is behavioural and/or emotional, schools become desperate to get additional help to keep the child from being a disruption to, or more worryingly, a danger to others.
Schools will often be the prime mover in insisting that parents go to the trouble and expense of getting a psychological or psychiatric assessment. Often the desire to have a child fit the criteria for extra help is as much to meet the wider needs of the teacher, class and school as it is to meet the needs of the specific child.
I rarely do formal clinical or psychometric assessments of children in situations where I have not already been working therapeutically with them. I am, as any of my clients will attest, incredibly reluctant to diagnose children according to predefined categories.
I hate that they may be boxed off, or reduced in others' understanding, to a label they have been assigned. I really do believe that the only true function of assessment is to give us insight into what kind of help will best suit a child.
But I do assess and I do diagnose where I judge that such a diagnosis is accurate and where it might also enable the child to get extra help in school. I hope I have never misdiagnosed a child; I've certainly never deliberately done so, but I do know that when I am writing up the report I will ensure I use the language to describe that child that will allow them to access the resources.
I do so because I am as much part of this flawed system as every other professional, every other teacher and principal, every Special Educational Needs Officer (SENO) and every parent desperate to see their child get the best help available. It makes much more sense to me that I, and others, would be assessing a child as part of a multidisciplinary approach, to best understand a child and thereby target the best and most child specific intervention for them. But this is not how the system is currently structured.
My job is to work therapeutically with children and their families to guide and support them. But they don't exist just in my office, they also have to live with their families, hang out with their friends and go to school. If, as part of my support of them, I can help them get access to extra help that they need, then I'll do my utmost to do so.
David Coleman is a clinical psychologist
In 1999 Leonard Cohen travelled to India to see a spiritual teacher named Ramesh Balsekar. Cohen was a man in search, if not exactly of faith, then of meaning. Ramesh had been educated at the London School of Economics and had worked as general manager of the Bank of India in Bombay before retiring to devote his life to propagating the teachings of advaita - a philosophy that teaches the idea that "I am the doer" of my thoughts, and actions should be constantly interrogated with the question "Who is this 'I'?". Cohen spent almost a year in Bombay, going almost daily to sit at Ramesh's feet.
A fascinating transcription exists of some of their conversations, in which Cohen talks of the difficulties in his life, his writing and the "chattering of the mind" that afflicted him, "sometimes in degrees of intensity that make one gasp or cry out for help". What Cohen seeks most of all, he says, is "peace".
It is Cohen's misfortune that he goes to his grave heralded as "the godfather of gloom". But the question he was constantly asking, in his songs, poetry and fiction was "Who is this 'I'?" - and what is this "I" supposed to be doing here, in this mess of dashed hopes, broken hearts and certain mortality?
Cohen came from a distinguished family of Montreal Jews. His grandfather, he told David Remnick of The New Yorker, in an interview four weeks ago, was a distinguished rabbi and "the most significant Jew in Canada" - a position Cohen would later assume himself. The legacy of Jewish teaching, lore - and melancholia - infused his work in ways that might not always have been obvious.
Cohen explored different paths - LSD, Catholicism, even Scientology. But the path that occupied much of his life was Zen Buddhism.
For 30 years he was associated with a Zen monaster y at Mount Baldy in California, and for almost six years in the Nineties lived there on and off as an ordained monk, under the tutelage of a Japanese Roshi (an honorific meaning distinguished teacher) named Kyozan Joshu Sasaki.
Cohen was known as Jikan, the "Silent One". He would rise each morning at 2.30, shovel snow, scrub the floors and spend half the day meditating.
When he ever talked about having experiences that suggested an illumination, Roshi would employ the traditional method of discouragement, beating him on the shoulder with a stick. People often described Cohen as a Buddhist, but he always denied it, saying he had "inherited an extremely good religion" - Judaism. Rather, his years with Sasaki Roshi had "provided a space for me to kind of dance with the Lord that I couldn't find in a lot of the other places I went to".
Cohen told Remnick how his search was still on going. He continued to read deeply in the Zohar - the principal text of Jewish mysticism - the Hebrew Bible, Hindu philosophy and Buddhist texts.
It is no coincidence Cohen's most famous song should be Hallelujah - a Hebrew word meaning "praise God", although Cohen maintained the song was a desire to affirm "my faith in life", not in an explicitly religious way "but with enthusiasm, with emotion".
"The only moment that you can live here comfortably in these absolutely irreconcilable conflicts is in this moment when you embrace it all and you say: 'Look, I don't understand a f**king thing at all! Hallelujah!' That's the only moment we live here fully as human beings." He once wrote that "a man or woman lays their work at the foot of their beloved - we do everything for love".
For all his songs and poetry, nothing in his life became Cohen more than the letter he wrote to his former lover and muse Marianne Ihlen on learning she would soon be leaving, dying of cancer: "Well Marianne, it's come to this time when we are really so old and our bodies are falling apart and I think I will follow you very soon.
"Goodbye old friend. Endless love, see you down the road."
Whatever the loss, whatever the "absolutely irreconcilable conflicts of the moment", whatever the darkness - as Leonard Cohen once sang, "There is a crack, a crack in everything/That's how the light gets in."
Whenever I work with a client within a counselling context, I am invariably on their side.
It doesn't matter how badly they may have behaved; once the client and I meet in a therapeutic setting, I stand shoulder to shoulder with the client in a bid to support them as they untangle the difficult patterns of their life.
This is why I wasn't surprised when Teresa Griffin, the head of the National Council for Special Education, said that some children are being wrongly made to "fit a certain category of disability in order for them to get a resource".
These children are being "unnecessary labelled" with disorders by doctors so as to get the educational resources they need. Sadly, there is no option for the doctor to recommend, "The child has no recognisable condition right now but clearly needs extra support"; instead all resources are based solely upon the diagnosis.
But doctors aren't only diagnosticians. They are advocates and if a child clearly has behavioural or developmental problems, but doesn't fit the criteria to be diagnosed with a condition, then it is understandable why their doctor might be willing to fudge the issue a little bit by providing the diagnosis.
Especially when doctors know if they send the child away without giving a diagnosis, then this child will receive no extra support from the education system.
I became acquainted with this system when my children's teachers fully accepted - as I did - that my children had dyslexia.
At the time, I didn't see any point in getting the diagnosis; it was patently obvious that both children had dyslexia. I didn't see any point in spending 490 on two assessments that would tell me something that I already knew. But then I was told the school couldn't allocate any extra resources to my children until they were officially diagnosed. Evidently, we had to get a diagnosis if I wanted to ensure my children were adequately supported in school.
I then had the choice to wait for the State to provide this assessment or pay for it myself. It might have taken years to get the assessment and, apparently, early intervention is key for these issues. So, feeling ripped off by the system, I arranged for an educational psychologist to give my kids a series of tests to give me the unsurprising news they were dyslexic. It cost me 980.
As I am not an educational psychologist, I couldn't penetrate the results of these assessments and therefore, other than allocating school resources for my children, the assessments didn't add to our lives in any way.
Any good teacher knows exactly which children need support and which are rolling along nicely without any extra support.
If there was more autonomy within the system, then teachers could identify undiagnosed children who need extra resources.
Perhaps we need to trust the educators instead of the medics to identify who needs the extra educational resources?
Doctors need to be able to diagnose wisely without fear of becoming the very obstacle that prevents their patients from benefiting from key support and resources. If the system continues to rely upon doctors to be the inappropriate gatekeepers for the allocation of educational resources, then we will soon fall into a situation where we will be medicalising difference.
This is becoming a controversial issue in the US where children who don't conform to certain narrow guidelines are often diagnosed with some condition or other.
Many experts argue that bland conformity is threatening to override individuality, immaturity, dreaminess and many other normal personality traits and tendencies.
It is well known that Albert Einstein was slow to learn how to speak. He was also described as a dreamy, slow and dull child who had a bizarre habit of softly repeating every sentence he uttered to himself before he spoke out loud. Einstein definitely wasn't standard issue and would undoubtedly have been cause for serious concern among teachers and doctors today.
Diagnoses for brain conditions, such as ADHD, ASD, dyslexia, depression or anxiety, are a very inexact science and perhaps these diagnoses should be written in pencil? Conditions based in the brain cannot be diagnosed with a blood test or a brain scan and so medics are forced to rely on more complex -and fallible - methods of assessment. In addition, although there are some cognitive tests children can take, nevertheless they need to have attained a certain level of education and ability before they can even take the test.
Falsely assuming every child's problem stems from a biological imbalance in the brain may give the child short-term educational benefits; however, it may also saddle them with an incorrect view of themselves that could take many long and difficult years to unravel.
Aristotle tells us that "knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom", but how can a person know themselves if they have been wrongly identified as having a condition that is hard-wired into their brain?
Stella O'Malley is a psychotherapist, writer and public speaker with over 10 years' experience as a mental health professional
All good business stories start with creativity
The Dingle peninsula is an inspirational place once described by National Geographic as the most beautiful place on earth.
The backdrop of this breathtaking landscape spurred successful builder Jerry OSullivan to move from bricks and mortar to a craft of a different kind brewing fresh Irish award-winning lager to create a brand new Irish brand.
Navigating the vertiginous Conor Pass before the descent down to Dingle is a feat in itself. The Dingle Brewing Company is now one of the first landmarks that visitors see when Creans Brewery appears in sight on arrival at the edge of Europe, the most westerly tip of Ireland the West Kerry Gaeltacht.
The Ford Business Stories series profiles innovative, successful Irish business leaders, delving deeper into their stories and the sources of their inspiration and hearing how they travel through life. The series also showcases the Ford Mondeo Vignale and the drive for perfection.
Kevin Dundon, celebrity chef and restaurateur and Ford ambassador travelled to Dingle to meet with Jerry OSullivan, hear his unique story and find out how he runs his business:
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So what prompted Jerry OSullivan to turn his back on bricks and mortar and dive in to the world of brewing? Ten years ago, he moved to the Dingle peninsula to retire, but shortly afterwards established the Dingle Brewing Company. A serial entrepreneur, he doesnt believe in procrastination tackle things, head on.
Housed in a 19th century creamery building, the craft brewery launched and opened its tours on 20th July, 2011, the birthday of explorer Tom Crean, whom the single brew, crisp, hoppy lager is named after. The small company has quickly grown distribution around Ireland and internationally.
On Brewing Business Success
I dont see obstacles as obstacles I see a way around them or if I cant find a way around them, I just go through them. Jerry OSullivan received this piece of advice from his father and passes it on to others starting out in business: Stick to what you know and get better at it.
On Inspiration and Creativity
Stick to your core idea and set out goals. Its appropriate that Jerrys Dingle Brewing Company makes a lager that bears the name of another great man with vision explorer Tom Crean. From out the road in Annascaul, he followed his dreams on expeditions to the South Pole as an indespensible and highly respected member of both Scotts Antarctic expedition (Discovery and Terra Nova) and of Ernest Shackeltons (Endurance).
The great hero and pioneer Tom Crean eventually returned to Kerry to open his own pub the South Pole Inn. Just like Tom did, Jerry returned to Dingle after his adventures in construction and taking inspiration from Crean, he sees no limits to how far he can go.
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American director JJ Abrams is set to produce award-winning West End comedy The Play That Goes Wrong as it moves to Broadway.
Now in its third year at the Duchess Theatre after winning the 2015 Olivier Award for best new comedy, the play will open at the Lyceum Theatre in Manhattan in April.
The original West End cast, including Matthew Cavendish, Bryony Corrigan and Rob Falconer, will star in the show telling the story of drama group actors who attempt to stage a 1920s murder mystery until everything goes horribly wrong.
Written by Mischief Theatre members, the show introduces the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society, who battle against all odds to make it through to the final curtain call.
Abrams - the writer, director and producer of Star Wars: The Force Awakens and executive producer of sci-fi thriller series Westworld - described his latest project as a "true honour".
He said: "I have been a fan of theatre all my life. When I saw The Play That Goes Wrong on the West End, I hadn't laughed that hard, seen something as preposterously absurd or wonderfully hilarious, in ages.
"To be part of the team bringing this inspired comedy to Broadway is a true honour."
He will co-produce the show with Kevin McCollum, Kenny Wax, Stage Present and Catherine Schreiber.
McCollum said: "I love that the Mischief crew started as a group of friends in drama school just trying to make each other laugh and through their inventiveness and ingenuity, have succeeded in making thousands laugh with three plays currently running simultaneously on the West End.
"I'm thrilled to be part of the team that brings their 'mischief' and lunacy to Broadway. We all really need a good laugh."
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Mischief founder and writer Henry Lewis said: "We are delighted that due to an administrative error the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society will be coming to Broadway's Lyceum Theatre in place of the RSC's production of Black Beauty.
"A fresh American audience with no knowledge of our previous work will be a real help to us.
"We would also like to wish the RSC all the best with Black Beauty, which will now be taking place back in England at the Cornley Village Hall.
"We'll leave the vaulting horse out for you."
Now licensed to 29 countries, pre-sale tickets for the Broadway show are available until November 23.
The New York Times has described it as "a gut-busting hit".
Ken Loach said the Government should not cut the disability allowance by 30%
Award-winning filmmaker Ken Loach has warned Chancellor Philip Hammond not to target the disabled in next week's mini Budget.
The director of the critically acclaimed I, Daniel Blake urged the Government not to pick on some of the most vulnerable people in society in the Autumn Statement financial announcement.
"The immediate thing is they are threatening to cut the disability allowance by 30%. That should not happen.
"It's meagre anyway. People with disabilities need the barest minimum that they are given at the moment just to survive, just to get by, just to keep going and try and get back into work.
"To cut that is cutting money from the most vulnerable and poorest people. And Philip Hammond should outlaw that immediately. Don't cut the disability benefit," he told BBC Radio Four's Westminster Hour.
Tory former Cabinet Minister John Redwood also expressed concern about proposed cuts to the employment and support allowance.
He said: "I'd like them to look again at the whole issue of disability treatment, not necessarily that particular cut, I can understand their case for that, it doesn't affect anyone who is currently on benefits which is very important.
"The point about it all is I don't want them taking money away from people currently getting it - which is why I was able to vote for it reluctantly - but I think we can to do better by the disabled."
Mr Redwood, considered a hardline Thatcherite when he was in Cabinet, said he was unhappy with the bedroom tax.
"No, I wasn't comfortable with that. I thought there were better ways of ensuring proper allocation of housing without affecting people's rights that they've already got, but it was part of a package in a very difficult situation.
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"I think now the economy is in better shape, I'd like the Government to look at all these areas in the round.
"Mrs (Theresa) May and Mr Hammond have come up with some much better language about how they wish to support people and help people and I hope they will come up with a range of interesting proposals that will be better."
Kim Kardashian's children Saint and North dress up as Aladdin and Jasmine at Halloween Credit KimKardashianWest.com
Kim Kardashian is seen walking North West to the GYM in New York
Kim Kardashian's doctors have warned her that a third pregnancy could possibly lead to "life or death" complications.
The 36-year-old reality star is mother to three-year-old North and son Saint, who turns one next month, with husband Kanye West.
Due to suffering from placenta accreta, a condition where the placenta attaches itself to the uterus, when she gave birth to North, Kim and Kanye struggled to conceive Saint.
While the couple has been open about their desire to have a large family, Kim was told on Sunday night's episode of Keeping Up With the Kardashians that falling pregnant for a third time could have fatal consequences.
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Kim's family doctor Dr Crane told her: "You never know if you might have the same type of problem that could be more serious this time."
Youre always taking a little bit of a chance. There are situations where retained placenta could be life or death."
Kim's mother Kris Jenner, who accompanied her to the appointment, added: "You could bleed to death."
Kim then decided to seek a second opinion, booking an appointment with fertility specialist Dr. Wong, who suggested she should consider using a surrogate.
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Speaking to the camera, Kim explained: "If the two doctors, that I trust, have told me it wouldnt be safe for me to get pregnant again, I have to listen to that. But because I dont know anyone that has been a surrogate or used one, I didnt really think about that as an option for me."
After the subject of surrogacy was broached, Kim decided to meet with a mother who had used a surrogate while also carrying another of her children herself.
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Deep in conversation with the woman, called Natalie, Kim told her that her greatest fear is that using a surrogate would mean she would love that child differently than she loves North and Saint, because she carried them herself.
Im more worried, because I gave birth to two. Theres a sense in me that because I went through all that pain for these two babies and that I know we did this together she said. "Theres no one that would feel your love (like this baby), they are literally near your heart and inside of you.
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My bond with my kids is so strong. I think my biggest fear is that if I had a surrogate is, would I love them the same? Thats the main thing I keep thinking about."
After Natalie reassured her she had never had those feelings, Kim told Kris at the end of the episode that she has accepted she won't be able to carry another child herself, and is now seriously exploring surrogacy.
"The best thing, I could have a new baby and have no one know and live my life for a good year before we announce it," Kim concluded. "But I dont know if its for me. I really dont know."
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson said he believed Polynesian people will be "incredibly proud" of his new Disney animation Moana despite criticism of its portrayal of the god Maui.
The wrestler-turned movie star voices the character of the mythical demigod, which some critics have claimed promotes a negative stereotype because he is depicted as obese.
New Zealand MP Jenny Salesa, who is of Tongan heritage, reportedly claimed the character resembled a creature that was "half pig, half hippo", while Samoan professional rugby player Eliota Fuimaono-Sapolu also criticised Disney's portrayal.
At a press conference to promote Moana in Los Angeles, Johnson - whose mother is Samoan - acknowledged there had been concerns about the film from people in the Pacific Islands but he had "great confidence" in the movie.
He said: "There was some hesitance from a lot of people in our culture about well, 'What's going to happen if our culture is going to be showcased for the very first time on this level and this capacity from Disney?'
"I can tell you ... with great confidence, and this is my hope too as well, that our experience has been that we were in such great hands.
"I feel like the Polynesian people are going to be incredibly proud of the movie."
Hawaiian teenager Auli'i Cravalho, who voices heroine Moana, admitted she was "a bit wary" of a film being made about her culture but she was pleased with the end result.
"Disney has done a wonderful job," she said.
"I'm excited for my community to see it and excited for everyone else to see it. Hopefully they'll be inspired to research our culture."
According to Polynesian mythology, Maui is a heroic figure who fished islands out of the sea.
After a trailer for Moana was released in June, Fuimaono-Sapolu criticised the depiction of the demigod, saying the character looked like "after he fished up the Islands, he deep fried 'em and and ate 'em".
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Ms Salesa also reportedly wrote on Facebook: "When we look at photos of Polynesian men & women from the last 100-200 years, most of our people were not overweight and this negative stereotype of Maui is just not acceptable - No thanks to Disney."
Meanwhile, Will Ilolahia, from the Pacific Island Media Association, told Waatea News that Disney's portrayal of Maui as obese was "typical American stereotyping".
Moana is released in UK cinemas on December 2.
People allegedly involved in the flogging of a transgender person arrive at a court in Sialkot, Pakistan (AP)
Police in Pakistan have arrested 10 alleged members of a criminal gang accused of flogging a transgender woman and posting a video of the abuse on social media.
The arrests were made in the eastern city of Sialkot after a video of the flogging was shared thousands of times on social media, said police official Iqbal Sindhu.
The video shows the gang leader pinning the woman face down on a bed with his foot and beating her with what appears to be a leather belt.
At one point, while another gang member continues the flogging, the leader places his foot on the victim's neck and twists her arms.
Police chief Abid Khan said five of those arrested have been charged with torture and extortion, while the other five are under investigation.
The alleged gang leader, who identified himself as Jajja, told Dunya News that he was friends with the victim.
"I was punishing him because he didn't refrain from his bad habits, which I pointed out to him several times," he said in an interview conducted while he was in police custody.
Transgender people in Pakistan are social outcasts who are often forced into begging, dancing and prostitution to earn money.
Fearing attacks, most either change their names or use only one name.
TransAction, a local transgender rights group, posted a video interview with another transgender woman who identified herself as Jolie and said she was present when the attack took place.
She said the gang members barged into a house where several transgender women were living, beating and torturing one of them for several hours and shaving the heads of others.
Mr Sindhu, the police official, confirmed Jolie was present at the scene.
AP
Ben Hooper gets ready at Bel-Air beach in Dakar, Senegal, to begin his epic swim across the Atlantic Ocean Picture: AFP/Getty
A former British policeman will swim up to 12 hours a day for four months in a bid to make history by crossing the Atlantic Ocean from Africa to South America.
After more than three years of preparation, Ben Hooper set off yesterday from Dakar in Senegal.
The 38-year-old, from Cheltenham, walked down a beach and into the sea, launching a swim for 3,200km to Brazil.
"This is for my daughter," said Mr Hooper, who filled a water bottle with sand to keep for the eight-year-old who he said inspired the record-breaking swim.
Flanked by two boats and a crew of less than a dozen, Mr Hooper aims to be the first person to swim every kilometre of the Atlantic Ocean from continent to continent, stepping on land again in March.
He trained for three years as he gathered a crew for the Big Blue, the main boat on which he will eat and sleep when he is not swimming for up to 12 hours each day through waters infested with sharks and jellyfish.
"I nearly drowned when I was five in a swimming pool in Belgium," he said. "Ever since I've had this affinity with water. It was the calmest I've ever felt."
Mr Hooper said he had a bout of depression three years ago and decided to turn his life around for his daughter. So he looked to water.
"Nobody had swum a full ocean. More people have landed on the moon than have tried this, so at that point I thought maybe this is my calling," he said. "If I can inspire myself, others and raise money for charity, why not do it?"
Nigel Taylor-Schofield, captain of the Big Blue, said: "This will be a major achievement overall. If anybody can accomplish this, it would be Ben."
One of the envelopes from Jane Eyre author Charlotte Bronte to life-long friend Ellen Nussey (Henry Aldridge & Son/PA)
One of two envelopes addressed by Charlotte Bronte to her life-long friend Ellen Nussey, which will go under the hammer (Henry Aldridge & Son/PA)
Rare envelopes that would have contained letters detailing the relationship between author Charlotte Bronte and her life-long friend are expected to fetch about 1,000 when they go under the hammer.
The handwritten envelopes were addressed to Ellen Nussey and sent to her in Leeds by the Jane Ayre author.
Both envelopes are expected to fetch between 800 and 1,200 when they go under the hammer.
Bronte and Ms Nussey became life-long friends after first meeting at school in Yorkshire when they were aged 14 and 13 respectively.
It was during their time at Roe Head School that they began writing to each other - correspondence that lasted until Bronte died in 1855 aged 38 while pregnant with her first child.
During that time Bronte rejected the marriage proposal from Ms Nussey's brother, Henry, and later her friend was one of two witnesses who observed Bronte's wedding to her father's curate, Arthur Bell Nicholls.
They exchanged hundreds of letters and 350 that Bronte penned to Ms Nussey were used by Elizabeth Gaskell as the basis to write her 1857 biography The Life Of Charlotte Bronte.
Charlotte Bronte and her sisters, Emily and Anne, wrote the literary masterpieces Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, and The Tenant Of Wildfell Hall respectively.
Auctioneer Henry Aldridge & Son in Devizes, Wiltshire, will be selling the two envelopes on November 19.
The first is written by Bronte in brown ink with a Penny Red stamp and postmarked "Leeds Jan 30 1849" and "Barnsley Keighley and Haworth" with the remains of a black seal. The 4in x 2.4in (10cm x 6cm) envelope bears a black mourning band to the border.
The second envelope is again written in brown ink with an accompanying Penny Red stamp. It is postmarked "Leeds MR 31 1846" on the front and "Bradford and Haworth" on the reverse.
Bronte has affixed a small printed scrap "Attend to Time" on the reverse of the 4.3in x 2.4in (11cm x 6cm) envelope.
Auctioneer Andrew Aldridge said: "These covers represent a small part of English literary history. Charlotte Bronte is one of the giants of English literature.
"These covers are written to her childhood friend and closest confidante Ellen Nussey, who first met Charlotte Bronte in 1831.
"Anything related to Charlotte is desirable but to have a pair of covers written by her to her closet friend offers an incredible opportunity to a collector or museum."
Staff at a zoo struggling to X-ray some hefty giant tortoises have turned the tables on their patients - quite literally.
The female Aldabra giant tortoises, which weigh the best part of 14 stone (90kg), were damaging the X-ray plates by either stamping on them or by pooing and weeing.
It takes four people to lift the reptiles, so vets and keepers at Paignton Zoo in Devon came up with the idea of a simple wooden frame - like a table without a top.
Vet nurse Celine Campana said: "We went to zoo technician Don Nielsen with a drawing and explained the problems we were having. We were sliding the digital X-ray plates under the tortoises, but they would stamp on them or poo and pee.
"They're worth 900 each and they were getting quite scratched and damaged."
Mr Nielsen devised the sturdy wooden frame, which includes a slot into which the vets can slide the X-ray plate, and the tortoises are lifted on to it.
A member of the vet team then stands above the animal with the zoo's mobile X-ray machine and takes the X-ray from above.
Ms Campana added: "The table means they are lifted off the ground for only a moment or two, they can't wander off as they are unable to reach the ground with their toes.
"The X-ray is taken in a quarter of the time it used to take. It is especially good as previously we had to have another person in the room to restrain the tortoise, and although everyone is wearing lead aprons, it's still a radiation exposure risk."
Pizza, the polar bear, is being kept on display in a shopping mall in China Photo: Animals Asia
Animal rights groups have called for the permanent return home of "the saddest polar bear in the world" on display in a shopping mall in southern China after the mall aquarium announced the bear would temporarily be moved during an upgrade.
The three-year-old female polar bear, named Pizza, has become a focus of global media attention since Hong Kong-based Animal Asia posted in July an online video of the bear lying on her side in a glass-walled enclosure in the city of Guangzhou.
"Pizza the polar bear will temporarily leave Guangzhou and return to her birthplace," the Grandview Mall Aquarium said on its official account on WeChat, a popular mobile-based Chinese social media platform.
The move was part of ongoing upgrades and "minor alterations" to the mall and the aquarium would remain open during Pizza's absence, the post on Sunday said.
It did not say when Pizza, widely dubbed online "the saddest polar bear in the world", was expected to return from the move to a zoo in the northeastern city of Tianjin.
Animal right groups have called for the move to be made permanent saying that conditions in the mall are unsuitable.
Sending Pizza back after her return home would be "cruel and heartless", Peter Li, a campaigner at Humane Society International, said in a statement.
"No amount of renovation could ever make a shopping mall a suitable place for this animal," he said.
In October, Humane Society International along with three Chinese animal rights groups called for the mall to be closed, saying that footage of Pizza's pacing and head swaying behaviour were evidence of mental decline.
The first woman to fly China's J-10 fighter plane was killed in a crash during an aerobatics training exercise, state-run media reported Monday.
Yu Xu, 30, a member of the Chinese air force's "August 1st" aerobatic display team, ejected from her aircraft during a training exercise in the northern province of Hebei at the weekend, the China Daily newspaper said.
She hit the wing of another jet and was killed, it said, although her male co-pilot ejected safely and survived.
"As one of only four female pilots in the country capable of flying domestically made fighter jets, her death comes as a tremendous loss to the Chinese air force," the Global Times newspaper said.
Yu, from Chongzhou in the southwestern province of Sichuan, joined the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force in 2005, reports said.
She graduated from training four years later, one of the first 16 Chinese women pilots qualified to fly fighter jets, the China Daily said, and in July 2012 was the first woman to fly the J-10. Fans dubbed her the "golden peafowl", it added.
Death of Chinas first female J-10 fighter pilot Yu Xu sparks call for more training https://t.co/Rkjq8aC3Dh pic.twitter.com/xIvUWdaULF SCMP News (@SCMP_News) November 13, 2016
She rose to become a flight squadron leader and according to the Global Times dreamed of becoming an astronaut.
Yu was one of two female members of the August 1st team - named for the date of the founding of the PLA - pictured at China's premier air show in Zhuhai two years ago.
The pair strode to their fighter planes in lock-step with male pilots, all wearing identical green jumpsuits and sunglasses.
At the time the China Daily newspaper quoted Wang Yan'an, deputy editor of Aerospace Knowledge magazine, as saying: "Female pilots have learned to fly cutting-edge fighter jets in the Chinese air force.
"It means the air force has diversified its pilot pool and can recruit more female pilots."
Yu appeared again at this year's show earlier this month, according to reports.
The official news agency Xinhua quoted Air Force spokesman Shen Jinke saying all its personnel were "deeply regretful and mournful" at her "unfortunate death".
The J-10 is a workhorse of the Chinese air force. An estimated 400 of the jets have been built, most for Chinese use, according to defense analysts IHS Janes. It said in December reports had emerged of three crashes in the previous three months.
Two of the fighters conducted what the Pentagon called an "unsafe" intercept of a US spy plane over the East China Sea in June.
Additional reporting by Agence France-Presse
Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022]
Barack Obama tried to soothe any fears about the security direction Donald Trump wants to take the US (AP)
Barack Obama has said the US under Donald Trump will remain an "indispensable nation" for global security and praised the president-elect for vowing to maintain America's alliances.
Mr Obama tried to soothe any fears about the security direction Mr Trump wants to take America, after the Republican appeared to question the validity of Nato and other overseas US commitments at various points in his campaign.
During a meeting between the pair, Mr Obama said Mr Trump "expressed a great interest in maintaining our core strategic relationships", including "strong and robust Nato" partnerships.
"There is no weakening of resolve," Mr Obama said before departing on a three-nation trip that is supposed to be his grand valedictory tour.
Instead, he will confront concerns about a Trump presidency in Europe and Latin America and try to reassure nations about a man who Mr Obama only a week ago derided as "woefully unprepared for the job" who "can't handle the nuclear codes".
"There is enormous continuity ... that makes us that indispensable nation when it comes to maintaining order around the world," Mr Obama said at a news conference at the White House.
Relationships and policies go beyond presidents, he said, adding that military officials, diplomats and intelligence officers would co-operate with their foreign counterparts as before.
Even as he visits Germany, Greece and Peru, Mr Obama said his team will accelerate efforts to ensure a smooth transition to the Trump administration.
He stressed that he would try to strengthen the American economy over his final two months, so that "when we turn over the keys, the car's in pretty good shape".
Mr Obama also said he thinks Mr Trump will seek to "send some signals of unity" to people alienated by his campaign.
He said he advised Mr Trump "to reach out to minority groups or women or others that were concerned about the tenor of the campaign" and "that's something that he will want to do".
But Mr Obama added that Mr Trump is trying to balance commitments he made to "supporters that helped to get him here".
On the campaign trail, MrTrump described Mexicans as rapists and criminals, vowed to build a wall along the US's southern border and make Mexico pay for it, appeared to mock a reporter with a physical disability, and threatened to sue several women who accused him of assaulting them. He also disparaged the Muslim American parents of an Army captain killed in Iraq, and battled a former Miss America who is Latino about having gained weight.
Mr Obama dodged a question on concerns about Mr Trump's decision to name Steve Bannon - a man celebrated by the white nationalist movement - as his chief strategist and senior adviser.
He said both sides of the political divide should give Mr Trump some time to set up his team and Americans can judge him in a couple years.
AP
Bulgarian Prime Minister Boiko Borisov says he will resign after accepting that the opposition has won a run-off presidential election.
Exit polls showed opposition Socialists-backed candidate General Rumen Radev taking 58% of the vote in Sunday's ballot.
Mr Borisov said: "We accept the will of the people and we congratulate those who have the support of the majority of the voters."
Chelsea Manning said there was no historical precedent for such an extreme sentence for the leak of secret documents (US Army via AP)
A transgender soldier who is more than six years into a 35-year sentence for leaking classified government and military documents to the WikiLeaks website is asking President Barack Obama to commute her sentence to time served.
In a commutation application released by her attorneys, Chelsea Manning said there was no historical precedent for such an extreme sentence for the leak of secret documents.
Ms Manning was arrested in 2010 and convicted in 2013 in military court of six Espionage Act violations and 14 other offences for leaking more than 700,000 secret military and State Department documents, plus some battlefield video to WikiLeaks. At that point she was known as Bradley Manning.
She is in custody at the military prison at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
Ms Manning, who was an intelligence analyst in Iraq, acknowledged leaking the documents but said it was intended to raise public awareness about the impact of war on innocent civilians.
She later filed a transgender prisoner rights lawsuit and has tried to commit suicide multiple times citing her treatment behind bars.
"I am living through a cycle of anxiety, anger, hopelessness, loss and depression," she wrote in her application, dated November 8. "I cannot focus. I cannot sleep."
Retired Air Force Colonel Morris D Davis, a 25-year-veteran who was chief prosecutor for the military commissions at Guantanamo Bay for two years, said much of the information Ms Manning leaked had little value and could be found through open sources on the internet.
Col Davis, who now serves as an administrative law judge for the US Labour Department, wrote a letter attached to Ms Manning's application that called the 35-year sentence far too harsh for releasing documents whose impact six years later "could fairly be described as inconvenience and embarrassment".
ACLU attorney Chase Strangio said his hope is that Mr Obama commutes the sentence and cements his legacy as a president who stood up for society's most vulnerable people.
"She has lived under incredibly harsh conditions the last six years and spent more time in prison than anyone in US history for giving information to the public," Mr Strangio said. "I'm worried she won't survive much longer in these conditions.
AP
Steve Bannon leaves Trump Tower in New York - the controversial media figure has been appointed to a key White House job (AP)
Donald Trump is known for his blunt speaking
President Barack Obama has warned there are "certain elements" of Donald Trump's temperament that will not serve him well "unless he recognises them and corrects them".
With just weeks left in office, Mr Obama said the president-elect understands that a candidate being reckless with his words can be less consequential than a president saying the same thing.
Mr Obama noted that markets move and foreign governments take note of a president's rhetoric and stressed that national security "requires a level of precision" so that deadly mistakes are not made.
He said blunt-spoken Mr Trump "recognises that this is different - and so do the American people".
In a White House news conference ahead of his final overseas trip as president, Mr Obama made the argument that immigration is good for the American economy.
He acknowledged that many Americans have grown sceptical about the "complex argument" in support of immigration, when they see factories closing at home and jobs going offshore. But he said "immigration is good for our economy" if it is "orderly and lawful".
Mr Trump campaigned on a promise to limit immigration into the US and bring offshore jobs back home.
But Mr Obama maintained that it is still his "strong belief" that achieving a strong global economy does not mean "shutting people out".
And he believes Mr Trump will seek to "send some signals of unity" to people alienated by his ferocious campaign.
He said he advised the president-elect "to reach out to minority groups or women or others that were concerned about the tenor of the campaign" and "that's something that he will want to do".
But he added that Mr Trump is trying to balance commitments he made to "supporters that helped to get him here".
On the campaign trail, Mr Trump described Mexicans as rapists and criminals. He vowed to build a wall along the US's southern border and make Mexico pay for it.
He appeared to mock a reporter with a physical disability and threatened to sue several women who accused him of assaulting them. Mr Trump also disparaged the Muslim American parents of an Army captain killed in Iraq, and battled a former Miss America who is Latino about having gained weight.
Mr Obama stressed the need to give Mr Trump the "rope and space" for a "reset" once he takes over the reins of power.
Earlier it emerged that Mr Trump was considering a woman and an openly gay man to fill major positions in his new leadership team.
It would be seen as history-making moves that would inject diversity into a Trump administration already facing questions about its ties to white nationalists.
The incoming president is considering Richard Grenell as United States ambassador to the United Nations.
If picked and ultimately confirmed by the Senate, he would be the first openly gay person to fill a Cabinet-level foreign policy post.
Mr Grenell previously served as US spokesman at the UN under former President George W Bush's administration.
At the same time, Mr Trump is weighing up whether to select the first woman to serve as chairman of the Republican National Committee.
On his short list of prospective chairs: Michigan GOP chairwoman Ronna Romney McDaniel, the former sister-in-law of Trump rival and 2012 presidential nominee Mitt Romney.
"I'll be interested in whatever Mr Trump wants," Ms McDaniel said, adding that she was planning to seek the Michigan GOP chairmanship again
Internal deliberations about staffing come a day after Mr Trump made overtures to warring Republican circles by appointing RNC Chairman Reince Priebus as his White House chief of staff and Breitbart News executive Stephen Bannon as chief strategist and senior counsellor.
AP
The Duchess of Cambridge takes part in the Remembrance Sunday ceremony at the Cenotaph in central London (REUTERS/Toby Melville)
The Duchess of Cambridge was among many royals who paid tribute to Britain's war dead yesterday on Remembrance Sunday.
Kate joined Queen Elizabeth and Prime Minister Theresa May for the annual service at the Cenotaph in central London - one of many taking place around the country in memory of those killed in past and present conflicts.
More than 750 armed forces personnel were applauded by crowds of poppy wearers as they marched to form a hollow square around the memorial.
As Big Ben struck 11am, the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery fired their World War I-era guns to mark the beginning and end of a two-minute silence in the heart of Whitehall.
Dressed in black, the Queen laid a wreath of poppies at the memorial for "The Glorious Dead" while the Duke of Edinburgh, the Prince of Wales, Mrs May and leader of the opposition Jeremy Corbyn followed suit.
Mr Corbyn joined in with 'God Save The Queen' after previously attracting criticism for not singing the anthem at the Battle of Britain 75th anniversary commemorations last year.
The Duchess of Cambridge and Duchess of Cornwall watched on from the balcony of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO).
Former prime ministers David Cameron, Tony Blair and John Major were also present.
File court artist sketch by Elizabeth Cook dated 13/04/2016 of Stefano Brizzi in the dock at the Old bailey, London. Elizabeth Cook/PA Wire
A Breaking Bad fan who strangled a police officer during a bondage sex session and tried to dispose of the body in an acid bath has been convicted of murder
Stefano Brizzi, 50, admitted he was inspired by his favourite TV series as he tried to get away with killing 59-year-old Pc Gordon Semple by dissolving his flesh.
Following an Old Bailey trial, the former Morgan Stanley IT developer was found guilty of murder by a majority of 10 to two after the jury had deliberated for more than 30 hours.
Brizzi, who gave no reaction as the jury delivered its verdict, will be sentenced on Friday, December 9.
The court heard how the defendant met his victim on gay dating app Grindr and arranged a "hot dirty sleazy session" at his flat near London's Tate Modern gallery on April 1.
According to Brizzi, Pc Semple died when a dog leash he had been wearing as part of a sex game slipped.
But a pathologist concluded that while strangulation was a possible cause of death, it would have taken minutes rather than moments, as the defendant had claimed.
In the days after the killing, crystal meth addict Brizzi was caught on CCTV buying buckets, a perforated metal sheet and cleaning products from a DIY store. He then set about dismembering the body and stripping the flesh.
Meanwhile, Pc Semple's long-term partner Gary Meeks raised the alarm and reported him missing when he failed to return to their home in Dartford, in Kent.
Neighbours complained about the stench coming from Brizzi's flat and eventually called police who came across the grisly sight of "globules" of flesh floating in the bath, bags containing bones and a part of Pc Semple's head, and pools of human fat in the oven.
Brizzi, who was wearing pink underpants and sunglasses, was arrested as officers realised the enormity of what they had found.
The court heard there was evidence in the kitchen that Brizzi had chopped up the Inverness-born officer with a variety of utensils and may have even used chopsticks to eat morsels of cooked meat.
Following his arrest, Brizzi admitted killing and trying to dissolve the body of a policeman because "Satan told me to".
During the killing, he said he had turned away a man on his doorstep who had arrived for a sex party organised on Grindr.
Brizzi said: "I was right in the middle of strangling Gordon and I said to him 'Look, this is not the right time now, people are falling ill and it's a mess'."
The Italian also told police that he had "chucked" some of Pc Semple's body into the Thames and thrown away his police badge and belongings.
A human foot was later found by a member of Thames Mudlark Club near Bermondsey Wall.
The court heard that Brizzi was addicted to crystal meth, which had cost him his job at financial giant Morgan Stanley.
He had gone to Crystal Meth Anonymous meetings, but upset people by wearing a Breaking Bad T-shirt as the show "glorified" the drug.
He told the group he believed in the Devil and liked satanic rituals and he bragged of his bondage sex encounters.
In his home, police found a mask and dog leash with Pc Semple's DNA on it as well as a copy of the Satanic Bible.
Giving evidence, Brizzi, who has HIV, told jurors of the difficulties of being a gay man brought up in a religious Italian family. The youngest of three siblings, his Tuscan father was a civil servant and his uncle was a Catholic priest.
He told jurors that Pc Semple died in a "state of erotic bliss".
his lawyer, Sallie Bennett-Jenkins QC, insisted he was no "monster" and could not have eaten Pc Semple's flesh as it was covered in chemicals.
Throughout his evidence, Brizzi wept and cried out "I'm sorry" as he was confronted with what he had done.
He had earlier admitted a charge of obstructing a coroner by disposing of the body. Pc Semple's brain and other internal organs have never been found.
The man accused of the terror-related murder of Labour MP Jo Cox will stand trial at the Old Bailey later.
Thomas Mair, 53, allegedly shot and stabbed the 41-year-old outside her constituency surgery in Birstall, near Leeds, on June 16.
He is charged with Mrs Cox's murder, possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence and possession of an offensive weapon - a dagger.
Mair, from Birstall, is also charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent to Bernard Carter-Kenny on the same date.
At a hearing last month, not guilty pleas were entered on all the charges.
The trial is being heard by senior judge Mr Justice Wilkie and is expected to go on for up to three weeks.
A panel of jurors will be selected and sworn in before prosecutor Richard Whittam QC opens the case.
Composite of undated handout photos issued by Avon and Somerset Police of (l-r) Admi Headley, 34, Paul Bromwich, 54 and Wayne Maycock, 33, who absconded from HMP Leyhil, south Gloucestershire, on Nov 13. Credit: Avon and Somerset Constabulary/PA Wire
Police are hunting for three prisoners serving sentences for crimes including rape, grievous bodily harm and robbery who absconded from an open jail.
Admi Headley, Wayne Maycock and Paul Bromwich are considered to be a risk to the public, Avon and Somerset Constabulary said, appealing for help tracing the men.
The trio were last seen at HMP Leyhill, a Category D prison in South Gloucestershire, at 4.45pm on Sunday and have links to the Manchester area, said the force, which has alerted Greater Manchester Police.
Headley, 34, is described as black, 5ft 10in tall, of slim build with brown eyes and short black hair. He has a tattoo on his left arm.
Maycock, 33, is white, 6ft 3in tall, of medium build with green eyes and brown hair. He has a tattoo on his right shoulder and scars on his forehead and both arms.
Bromwich, 54, who also uses the name Smith, is 6ft tall, of medium build with blue eyes. He wears glasses and has a scar on the left side of his face and tattoos on both arms.
Their disappearance comes less than a week since two men escaped from HMP Pentonville in north London, although both have now been apprehended.
Police urged anyone who sees Headley, Maycock or Bromwhich to phone 999 and tell the call handler they are phoning in relation to log 1050 of 13/11.
Any information on where they may be can be passed on to police by calling 101 and quoting the same log.
Via The Guardian, health editor Sarah Boseley writes: Nurse faces tribunal over Pauline Cafferkey temperature reading. Excerpt:
A nurse who was lauded by the government as one of Britains heroes of the Ebola epidemic is facing a disciplinary tribunal, accused of concealing the high temperature of her colleague Pauline Cafferkey, who developed Ebola on her return from Sierra Leone.
Senior sister Donna Wood was the face of the volunteers in Medics Behind the Mask, an online feature made by the Department for International Development. She and Cafferkey were among the first 70 volunteers to leave the UK and spend Christmas 2014 in the Ebola treatment units of Sierra Leone, and were publicly thanked by Justine Greening, the then international development minister.
But Woods career could end over events at Heathrow airport when the volunteers flew home on 28 December 2014. All the returnees had to be screened to ensure they did not have a high temperature that might be the first sign of Ebola fever. Chaotic conditions and long delays were described in the screening unit, with too few staff to process the exhausted volunteer nurses and doctors, so they took each others temperatures.
When Cafferkeys temperature was found to be high, Wood is alleged to have recorded it on the form as normal, saying they would then get out of here and sort it out. They were then allowed to leave the screening area.
Cafferkey later told another volunteer she had a high temperature and returned to the screening area, but she had taken paracetamol and her temperature was found to be within the normal range, so she was cleared to fly to Scotland, where she was taken ill.
Cafferkey was accused by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of misconduct, but was cleared on the grounds that she had already become too ill to understand the implications of her actions.
Indre Novikovaite, Mark Smith and their son. Mr Smith died in a tram crash in Croydon, South London Credit: BTP/PA Wire
The fiance of a father killed in the Croydon tram crash has paid tribute to the "amazing dad", saying "we would give up everything to hold and kiss him again".
Mark Smith was described by his family as a devoted father to his 18-month old son and a "loving, caring, kind, loyal and popular young man".
The 35-year-old was among six men and a woman who lost their lives in Wednesday's tragedy, described by Mr Smith's relatives as a "soul-destroying event".
The glazier from Croydon, south London, who was on his way to work when he died, planned to marry partner Indre Novikovaite next year, according to reports.
Ms Novikovaite said Mr Smith would be "in our hearts forever and ever".
She said: "Mark was my lover, my best friend, my everything. He was, and still is, an amazing dad to our little boy.
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"We would give up everything to hold and kiss him again.
"We love you to the moon and back, you are the best thing that happened in our lives."
In a statement Mr Smith's family said: "A star that shines twice as bright only shines for half its life, that was our Mark, a son we were very proud of.
"Our son Mark Smith was a loving, caring, kind, loyal and popular young man known to many. A devoted father and husband-to-be and loving brother to his sister.
"He touched many lives through the passage of his too-short life. His loss has devastated us all."
More than 50 people were left injured in the crash which occurred during the morning rush.
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The driver of the tram was subsequently arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and questioned by police before being bailed until May.
On Sunday the family of Robert Huxley from New Addington, south London, paid tribute to the "larger than life" 63-year-old who was also killed when the tram derailed and flipped on its side.
"As you can appreciate for his loved ones it's been a difficult and uncertain time, the confirmation of his death only came late this afternoon," the statement read.
"Bob was a larger than life character and very hardworking. A loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, brother, uncle and dear friend to many. He was also a lifelong Chelsea supporter and a season ticket holder.
"This tragedy will have far reaching consequences and impact many people for a significant time. We are all heartbroken."
The family and friends of Donald Collett, 62, from Croydon, said they were "struggling to deal with this tragic news".
"Don was a well loved, funny and generous man, who could light up a room with his smile. He is tragically leaving behind a loving family, partner, adored friends and work colleagues," they said in a statement.
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Whatsapp A damaged tram carriage is seen wrapped in tarpaulin as preparations are made to remove it from the scene of Wednesday's crash in Croydon
The family of Philip Logan, 52, from New Addington, said he would be "immensely missed by all that knew him".
"Philip Logan known to all who knew him as Loag, a loving husband to Marilyn, brother to Susan, father to Lee, Tracy, Lisa and Adele, grandfather and great grandfather. He was a true family man and generous friend to all with a magnificently dry sense of humour."
Mother-of-two Dorota Rynkiewicz, 35, from New Addington; Philip Seary, 57, a grandfather from Croydon and Dane Chinnery, 19, from New Addington, also died in the tragedy.
On Remembrance Sunday the seven victims were reportedly included in the town's annual commemoration service during which their names were read out.
The day before a group of up to 100 mourners marched to the scene and held a vigil where flowers and tributes had been left in memory of the victims.
The wrecked tram had earlier been removed from the site by lorry and taken away to be checked by investigators.
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British Transport Police detectives and officials from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) are probing what led to the two-carriage tram leaving the tracks near Sandilands station at around 6.10am.
Officials said the tram was travelling at a "significantly higher speed than is permitted" as it entered a tight bend before flipping on to its side and sliding for a distance.
The driver, a 42-year-old man from Beckenham, south London, was arrested at the scene. It is understood that establishing if the driver was asleep or had blacked out are lines of inquiry.
An interim report into what happened will be published by the RAIB next week, with a final report, including any safety recommendations, coming at the conclusion of the investigation.
The Ecuadorian government has welcomed moves by the Swedish authorities to interview Julian Assange inside its embassy over a sex allegation.
Representatives from the Swedish prosecutor's office and the Swedish police will be present while questions are put to the WikiLeaks founder by an Ecuadorian official today.
Mr Assange has been granted political asylum by Ecuador and has been living inside the embassy for over four years.
He believes that if he leaves the embassy he will be extradited to the United States for questioning over the activities of WikiLeaks.
He denies the allegation against him and has been offering to be interviewed at the embassy.
Guillaume Long, Ecuador's foreign minister, told the Press Association: "We are pleased that the Swedish authorities will finally interview Mr Assange in our embassy in London.
"This is something that Ecuador has been inviting the Swedish prosecutors to do ever since we granted asylum to Mr Assange in 2012.
"There was no need for the Swedish authorities to delay for over 1,000 days before agreeing to carry out this interview, given that the Swedish authorities regularly question people in Britain and received permission to do so on more than 40 occasions in recent years.
"Ecuador has never sought to stand in the way of any legal process in Sweden.
"What we have asked from Sweden, and the UK, are guarantees that Mr Assange will not be extradited to a third country, where he could be persecuted for his work as as a journalist.
"The Ecuadorian government granted asylum to Mr Assange in 2012 given the risk of such political persecution and we believe that this threat remains very real."
The Swedish assistant prosecutor, chief prosecutor Ingrid Isgren, and a Swedish police investigator will be present at the interview and have said that providing Mr Assange gives his consent, a DNA sample will also be taken.
The results of the interview will be reported from Ecuador to the Swedish prosecutors in a written statement. After this report, the prosecutors will take a view on the continuation of the investigation.
Ingrid Isgren will not give interviews during her stay in London, it was made clear.
"As the investigation is ongoing, it is subject to confidentiality. This confidentiality also applies according to Ecuadorian legislation for the investigative measures conducted at the embassy.
"Therefore, the prosecutors cannot provide information concerning details of the investigation after the interview," said a statement.
"I welcome the fact that the investigation can now move forward via an interview with the suspect," said director of prosecution Marianne Ny, who is responsible for the investigation.
People console each other at a memorial outside the Bataclan concert hall in Paris yesterday (AP Photo/Michel Euler)
A sombre silence marked France's anniversary commemorations of co-ordinated attacks on Paris which killed 130 people a year ago yesterday.
Under heavy security, President Francois Hollande unveiled a plaque outside the Stade de France "in memory of Manuel Dias", pulling away a French flag covering it on a wall at one of the entrances to the French national stadium where Mr Dias was killed on November 13 by a suicide bomber. He was the first victim of the attacks.
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo joined the president at six other sites where crowds were set upon by Isil militants as they ate, drank or enjoyed music.
The only voices heard during the ceremonies were the reading of the names of the victims and the son of Mr Dias.
Three teams of extremists from neighbouring Belgium targeted six bars and eateries, turning scenes of Friday night revelry into carnage.
At the Stade de France, Michael Dias said his father - an immigrant from Portugal - was "living proof that integration is possible, necessary" to end the madness of violence carried out by those who felt excluded.
The final stop, the Bataclan concert hall - which reopened on Saturday with a concert by pop star Sting - was the site of the bloodiest and longest attack.
Ninety people were killed by three attackers who also took a group of people hostage.
The youngest and oldest victims of the night of horror were a 17-year-old and a 68-year-old - both killed at the Bataclan.
Families of victims, security and rescue forces and some still trying to heal were among those present at the ceremonies.
In addition to those killed, nine people remain hospitalised from the attacks and others are paralysed.
The government says more than 600 people are still receiving psychological treatment after the attacks.
The remembrances come after the Sting concert that reopened the refurbished Bataclan concert hall. Sting asked concert-goers in fluent French to observe a minute's silence as he opened the show.
"We've got two important things to do tonight," the 65-year-old said.
"First, to remember and honour those who lost their lives in the attacks a year ago - and to celebrate the life and the music of this historic venue. We shall not forget them."
Elodie Suigo, who lost six friends in the attack, said that it was a hard night, even though she loved the music.
"It was difficult going through that door. I don't think I was the only one," she said.
"We cannot say it was a magical moment because of everything that changed in our lives. But Sting is a really great man."
Donald Trump's victory is an "additional stone in the building of a new world", Marine Le Pen has said, as fears grow that the far-right politician could become France's next president.
The Front National (FN) leader said Mr Trump "made possible what had previously been presumed impossible", raising her hopes that voters in France would rise up against "the elite" as they did in the United States. She said she would seize on the "global revolution" started by Brexit and Mr Trump to win the French presidency in May.
Her comments on BBC TV's 'Andrew Marr Show' came hours after her niece, Marion Marechal-Le Pen, claimed that Mr Trump's representatives had invited her to work with the president-elect.
Ms Marechal-Le Pen (26), who became France's youngest MP in 2012, wrote on Twitter: "I answer yes to the invitation of Stephen Bannon, CEO of Donald Trump's presidential campaign, to work together."
Mr Bannon is a possible contender to become Mr Trump's chief of staff. Yesterday his team denied Mr Bannon had been in direct contact with Ms Marechal-Le Pen.
Current polls suggest that Marine Le Pen will be beaten in the presidential election, although she is expected to come top in the first round of voting.
However, Jean-Pierre Raffarin, a former centre-right prime minister, warned that the pollsters, who were wrong about Mr Trump, could also be wrong about Ms Le Pen. "The main news for us French is that Marine Le Pen can win in France," he said. "That means extreme populism can win."
Ms Le Pen, asked if Mr Trump's win made victory more likely for her in France, said: "Yes, I wish that in France also the people upend the table, the table around which the elite are dividing up what should go to the French people."
Like Mr Trump, she has long been an admirer of Vladimir Putin, and said there "is no reason to be scared [of Russia]", urging European leaders to negotiate with Mr Putin.
Insisting that her party was not racist, she said: "I don't think it's racist to say that we cannot take in all the poverty of the world, we cannot take care of hundreds of thousands of people arriving here, because our first obligation is to protect the French people."
She also said that there was not a "hair's breadth" between her party and Ukip, whose interim leader, Nigel Farage, was the first British politician to meet the president-elect.
A supporter of Julian Assange holds a poster after prosecutor Ingrid Isgren from Sweden arrived at Ecuador's embassy to interview him in London, Britain, November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls
Supporters of Julian Assange hold posters after prosecutor Ingrid Isgren from Sweden arrived at Ecuador's embassy to interview him in London, Britain, November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls
Supporters of Julian Assange chat after prosecutor Ingrid Isgren from Sweden arrived at Ecuador's embassy to interview him in London, Britain, November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls
A supporter of Julian Assange attaches a poster to railings after prosecutor Ingrid Isgren from Sweden arrived at Ecuador's embassy to interview him in London, Britain, November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls
Prosecutor Ingrid Isgren from Sweden arrives at Ecuador's embassy to interview Julian Assange in London, Britain, November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls
A supporter of Julian Assange holds a poster after prosecutor Ingrid Isgren from Sweden arrived at Ecuador's embassy to interview him in London, Britain, November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls
A Swedish prosecuting official has arrived at the Ecuadorian embassy in London to be present while Julian Assange is interviewed about a sex allegation.
Ingrid Isgren faced a battery of photographers as she stepped out of a car and walked up the steps to the front door of the embassy in Knightsbridge.
She made no comment and is expected to remain for the duration of the questioning, which is being carried out by an Ecuadorian government official.
Mr Assange has been granted political asylum by Ecuador and has been living inside the embassy for more than four years.
Expand Close Supporters of Julian Assange chat after prosecutor Ingrid Isgren from Sweden arrived at Ecuador's embassy to interview him in London, Britain, November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls / Facebook
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Whatsapp Supporters of Julian Assange chat after prosecutor Ingrid Isgren from Sweden arrived at Ecuador's embassy to interview him in London, Britain, November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls
He believes that if he leaves the embassy he will be extradited to the United States for questioning over the activities of WikiLeaks.
He denies the allegation against him and has been offering to be interviewed at the embassy.
Chief prosecutor Ms Isgren will be present at the interview and has said that providing Mr Assange gives his consent, a DNA sample will also be taken.
The results of the interview will be reported from Ecuador to the Swedish prosecutors in a written statement.
Expand Close Supporters of Julian Assange hold posters after prosecutor Ingrid Isgren from Sweden arrived at Ecuador's embassy to interview him in London, Britain, November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls / Facebook
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Whatsapp Supporters of Julian Assange hold posters after prosecutor Ingrid Isgren from Sweden arrived at Ecuador's embassy to interview him in London, Britain, November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls
After this report, the prosecutors will take a view on the continuation of the investigation.
Swedish police inspector Cecilia Redell was also due to be present.
Expand Close A supporter of Julian Assange holds a poster after prosecutor Ingrid Isgren from Sweden arrived at Ecuador's embassy to interview him in London, Britain, November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls / Facebook
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Whatsapp A supporter of Julian Assange holds a poster after prosecutor Ingrid Isgren from Sweden arrived at Ecuador's embassy to interview him in London, Britain, November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls
Ecuador ambassador Carlos Ortiz and one of Mr Assange's lawyers, Per Samuelson, were at the embassy for the interview.
A small group of supporters stood opposite the embassy, holding up banners calling for the WikiLeaks founder to be freed.
Expand Close Prosecutor Ingrid Isgren from Sweden arrives at Ecuador's embassy to interview Julian Assange in London, Britain, November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls / Facebook
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Whatsapp Prosecutor Ingrid Isgren from Sweden arrives at Ecuador's embassy to interview Julian Assange in London, Britain, November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls
A statement on behalf of the Swedish prosecutors said: "As the investigation is ongoing, it is subject to confidentiality.
"This confidentiality also applies according to Ecuadorian legislation for the investigative measures conducted at the embassy. Therefore, the prosecutors cannot provide information concerning details of the investigation after the interview."
Swedish Director of Prosecution Marianne Ny, who is responsible for the investigation, said: "I welcome the fact that the investigation can now move forward via an interview with the suspect."
A judge has ordered the release from federal prison of a man whose homicide conviction was overturned in a case profiled in the Netflix series Making A Murderer.
Brendan Dassey's release was ordered by US Magistrate Judge William Duffin even as prosecutors appealed against the judge's earlier ruling overturning Mr Dassey's conviction.
It is not clear how quickly Mr Dassey will be released. He faces a deadline of noon on Tuesday to provide information on where he will live.
Wisconsin attorney general Brad Schimel promised to file an emergency motion in the 7th US Circuit Court of Appeals to keep him behind bars.
Judge Duffin ruled in August that investigators tricked Mr Dassey into confessing he helped his uncle, Steven Avery, rape, kill and mutilate photographer Teresa Halbach in 2005. The state has appealed against that ruling and argued Mr Dassey should remain in prison while it is pending.
Mr Dassey was convicted of first-degree intentional homicide, second-degree sexual assault and mutilating a corpse. He was sentenced to life in prison in 2007. Court documents describe him as a slow learner who had poor grades and has difficulty understanding language and speaking.
In his August ruling, Judge Duffin said investigators made specific promises of leniency to Mr Dassey and that no "fair-minded jurists could disagree". Mr Schimel, in his appeal, said investigators did not promise leniency and they specifically told Mr Dassey no promises could be made.
Lawyers are in the process of filing legal briefs in the appeal, which is expected to be argued some time next year.
State prosecutors argued that until then, Mr Dassey should remain in prison because he is a serious threat to public safety. But Judge Duffin cited his "exceedingly benign" prison disciplinary record and the fact that he had no convictions before the Halbach case.
Mr Dassey, now 27, was 16 when Ms Halbach was killed.
The judge ordered him released as soon as the federal probation office approves where he is going to live and "completes whatever additional investigation it deems necessary". Mr Dassey's lawyer, Steve Drizin, said he did not know how long that would take but he hoped Mr Dassey would be free by Thanksgiving, 10 days away.
"That's what I'm focused on right now, getting him home, getting him with his family and then helping him to reintegrate back into society while his appeal plays out," Mr Drizin said.
Given that his family lives in north-east Wisconsin, there is little chance Mr Dassey will try to flee, the judge said. Under the judge's order, he would be forbidden from having contact with Avery or Ms Halbach's family.
Mr Dassey would have to meet numerous other conditions, including reporting to a probation officer, not owning a gun or other weapon, being available for home visits and getting approval before moving. Any travel outside eastern Wisconsin would have to be approved by the court and Mr Dassey could not get a passport.
Ms Halbach was killed after she visited the Avery family's salvage yard in Manitowoc County. Investigators allege Avery lured her there by asking her to take photos of a minivan.
Avery was convicted in a separate trial and was also sentenced to life in prison. He is pursuing his own appeal.
Their cases gained national attention after Netflix aired Making A Murderer last year. The series spawned widespread conjecture about the pair's innocence. Authorities who worked on the cases said the series was biased, but it generated calls from the public to free both men.
AP
An ancient statue at the archaeological site of Nimrud, around 30 kilometres southeast of Mosul, Iraq's second city Picture: AFP/Getty
Iraqi forces battling Isil captured Nimrud, the site of an ancient city on the banks of the Tigris, yesterday during the operation to retake Mosul from the jihadists.
"Troops from the ninth armoured division liberated Nimrud town completely and raised the Iraqi flag above its buildings," said a statement issued by Iraq's joint operations command.
Nimrud was seized by Isil in its 2014 blitz across northern Iraq.
The town, a cultural and archaeological jewel in an area often referred to as the cradle of civilisation, is of special significance to Iraqi Christians.
Modern-day Nimrud lies 1km west of the ruins of the old city, which was built around 1250 BC and became the capital of the Assyrian empire.
Nimrud, which is mentioned in the 'Book of Genesis', blossomed in the ninth-century BC during the reign of the King Ashurnasirpal and grew rich in jewels, monuments and palaces.
Despite being repeatedly plundered by Western explorers from the mid-19th century, the city managed to hide some of its secrets. In 1988, archaeologists at the site unearthed a collection of 613 precious stones, which were hailed as the most significant archaeological discovery since Tutankhamen's tomb.
After being damaged in the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq, Nimrud was further battered by Isil militants in March 2015. Wielding drills, explosives and bulldozers, they set out to pulverise the city's heritage and erase all religious symbolism deemed idolatrous.
Whatever may have survived Isil's 2015 attack is likely to have been further damaged in the latest fighting.
For the coalition of forces battling to oust Isil from Mosul, the victory at Nimrud is tempered by a growing sense that the larger battle may not be over any time soon.
After last week's advance into Mosul proper, Iraqi forces have encountered increasingly fierce resistance, battling wave after wave of lethal car bombs.
"The only weapons they have left are car bombs and explosives," Iraqi special forces Major General Sami al-Aridi said.
Bomb
"There are so many civilian cars and any one of them could be a bomb," he said.
Iraqi officers say they have cleared the eastern neighbourhoods of Qadisiya and Zahra and are planning to push further into the heart of Mosul, but progress is slow.
As they move forward, troops build earthworks and road blocks to prevent car bombs from breaching front lines. Even as they gain territory, troops struggle to hold it under heavy counter-attacks, raising the spectre of fighting Isil from the front and the rear at once.
While the Iraqi armed forces do not release official casualty figures, field hospitals have reported dozens killed and wounded in the operation.
Isil still controls other Assyrian landmarks including the ruins of Nineveh and Khorsabad, as well as the 2,000-year-old desert city of Hatra, famed for its pillared temple which blended Graeco-Roman and eastern architecture.
The scale of the damage at the sites is not clear.
But Iraqi officials say some buildings have been totally destroyed. ( Daily Telegraph, London)
Shiite fighters from the Hashed al-Shaabi (Popular Mobilisation) flash the sign of victory from the back of a truck as they drive towards the village of Umm Sijan, south of Mosul. Photo: AFP/Getty Images
At least six civilians have been killed in a suicide attack south of Baghdad, Iraq's Interior Ministry said.
Spokesman Brigadier General Saad Maan said six suicide bombers tried to infiltrate the holy Shiite city of Karbala on Monday, but security forces managed to kill five of them.
Brig Gen Maan added that the sixth bomber broke into a house where he blew up himself, killing six people and injuring six others.
Hundreds of thousands of faithful Shiites have been walking to Karbala to commemorate the end on Sunday of the 40-day mourning period of the seventh century death of Imam Hussein, Prophet Muhammad's grandson. The city is some 55 miles (90km) south of the capital.
No group claimed responsibility, but suspicion fell on Sunni religious extremists who consider Shiites to be heretics.
John Key and Gerry Brownlee fly over Kaikoura, New Zealand, to inspect the damage following a powerful earthquake (Pool Photo/AP)
A rail line is covered by landslide near Conway in Kaikoura, New Zealand, after a powerful earthquake (SNPA/AP)
New Zealand is planning to send in military helicopters and a navy ship to rescue about 1,000 tourists and hundreds of residents who remain stranded in the coastal town of Kaikoura after a powerful earthquake cut off access.
The magnitude-7.8 quake struck the South Island just after midnight. It left two people dead and triggered a small tsunami. It also brought down rocks and mud that swept across highways and cracked apart roads.
Home to about 2,000 residents, Kaikoura is a popular destination for travellers taking part in whale-watching expeditions or wanting a stopover with mountain views.
But the quake knocked out water supplies and sewerage systems and left people with no easy way out.
"From all directions, Kaikoura has essentially been isolated," Air Commodore Darryn Webb, the Acting Commander of New Zealand's Joint Forces, said.
"There's a real imperative to support the town because it can't support itself."
Mr Webb said the military planned to begin using four NH90 helicopters on Tuesday that could each transport about 18 people out of the town at a time.
He said a ship was also leaving Auckland on Monday night that could potentially pick up hundreds of people if weather conditions allowed.
"We're going to get as many people and belongings out as quickly as we can," he added.
He said the weather forecast was not looking great and the operation could take several days.
He said that if needed, a C-130 military transport plane could drop fuel, water, food and other supplies to the town.
Elsewhere, strong aftershocks continued to shake New Zealand on Monday, rattling the nerves of exhausted residents.
The country was largely spared the devastation it saw in 2011 when an earthquake struck the city of Christchurch and killed 185 people.
Monday's quake caused damage in Wellington, the capital, and was also strongly felt in Christchurch. Residents said the shaking went on for about three minutes.
Police said one person died in Kaikoura and another in Mt Lyford, a nearby ski resort. Several other people suffered minor injuries in Kaikoura, police spokeswoman Rachel Purdom said.
Prime Minister John Key flew over the destruction in Kaikoura by helicopter as aftershocks kicked up dust from the landslides below.
Cars could be seen lying on their sides and parts of the road were clearly impassable.
"It's just utter devastation," Mr Key said.
He later toured the area and met with locals. He estimated the clean-up effort would run into the billions of dollars and said clearing the debris and blocked roads could take months.
Kaikoura resident Terry Thompson said he was out of town when the quake struck, but managed to reach his wife on her mobile phone before the phone died.
"She said the glass exploded right out of the double ranch-slider," he said.
"The neighbour's chimney was gone, there were breakages and things smashed everywhere."
Mr Thompson said his wife helped a 93-year-old neighbour and a tourist into her car and drove to higher ground.
"They stayed in the car all night but couldn't sleep," Mr Thompson said. "They're all very, very tired and concerned about the state of their property."
Video taken from a helicopter near Kaikoura showed three cows stranded on an island of grass in a paddock that had been ripped apart in the quake.
The patch of grass was surrounded by deep ravines of collapsed earth, trapping the animals where they stood.
The quake temporarily knocked out New Zealand's emergency call number, 111. In Wellington, it collapsed a ferry loading ramp, broke windows and caused items to fall from shelves. It also forced hundreds of tourists onto the streets as hotels were evacuated.
Police, meanwhile, stepped up their patrols after receiving several reports of burglaries in homes and businesses that had been evacuated due to the quake.
Authorities in Wellington told people who work in the city's central business district to stay home on Monday.
Officials said some large buildings were showing signs of structural stress. The city's rail network was shut while crews checked tracks, bridges and tunnels.
New Zealand, with a population of 4.7 million, sits on the "Ring of Fire", an arc of seismic faults around the Pacific Ocean where earthquakes are common.
AP
Via VnExpress International: Ho Chi Minh City confirms 3 new Zika cases in 3 days. Excerpt:
Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province confirmed its first Zika case on Monday while its neighbor Ho Chi Minh City said the number of patients of the mosquito-borne virus has risen to 38 from 35 in just three days.
The male patient, 19, was admitted to a hospital in Ba Ria-Vung Tau on October 30 with a high fever and joint pains. He was later moved to another hospital in Ho Chi Minh City where he tested positive for the Zika virus.
An investigation by the provincial health department found he visited his girlfriend in the city around two weeks before falling sick.
Health workers fumigated his living area on Monday afternoon, and 350 families within a 250-meter radius of his house are being monitored.
Nguyen Huu Hung, deputy director of HCMC's health department, said at a meeting on Monday that the city had confirmed three new cases since the latest report three days ago.
Vietnams Zika infections are approaching 50. A latest official figure is not yet available, but there have been patients in the provinces of Binh Duong, Dak Lak, Khanh Hoa, Long An, Phu Yen and Tra Vinh. In Dak Lak, a 4-month-old baby has been confirmed as Vietnams first case of microcephaly caused by Zika.
Making A Murderer's Brendan Dassey, whose homicide conviction was overturned in a case profiled in the Netflix series, should be released from prison while prosecutors appeal, a judge has ruled.
US magistrate judge William Duffin ordered Dassey's release contingent upon him meeting multiple conditions.
The judge ruled in August that investigators tricked Dassey into confessing he helped his uncle, Steven Avery, rape, kill and mutilate photographer Teresa Halbach in 2005. The state has appealed that ruling.
Dassey's attorney, Steve Drizin, said he had not spoken yet with Dassey, but he hoped to have him out of prison in time to spend Thanksgiving with his family.
"That's what I'm focused on right now, getting him home, getting him with his family and then helping him to re-integrate back into society while his appeal plays out," Mr Drizin said.
A spokesman for Wisconsin Attorney General Brad Schimel, who had asked that Dassey not be released from prison pending the appeal, had no immediate response.
Dassey's supervised release was not immediate. He had until noon on Tuesday to provide the federal probation and parole office with the address of where he planned to live.
Mr Drizin would not say where Dassey plans to live.
Dassey was 16 when Halbach died. He is now 27.
Judge Duffin ruled in August that investigators made specific promises of leniency to Dassey and that no "fair-minded jurists could disagree".
He cited one investigator's comment early in the interview that "you don't have to worry about things", plus repeated comments like "it's OK" and that they already knew what happened.
Mr Schimel, in his appeal, said investigators did not promise leniency and they specifically told Dassey that no promises could be made.
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Ms Halbach was killed on Halloween 2005, after she visited the Avery family's salvage yard in Manitowoc County.
Investigators allege Avery lured her there by asking her to take photos of a minivan. Dassey was sentenced to life in prison in 2007.
Court documents describe him as a slow learner who had poor grades and has difficulty understanding language and speaking. Avery was convicted in a separate trial and was also sentenced to life in prison. He is pursuing his own appeal.
Their cases gained national attention after Netflix aired Making A Murderer last year. The series spawned widespread conjecture about the pair's innocence. Authorities who worked on the cases said the series was biased, but it generated calls from the public to free both men.
President-elect Donald Trump gives his acceptance speech during his election night rally. Photo: John Locher/AP Photo
President-elect Donald Trump has spoken to Russian President Vladimir Putin, discussing a range of issues including the threats and challenges facing the United States and Russia.
Mr Trump's advisers said the two leaders also touched on economic issues and the US-Russian relationship in the telephone call.
His transition team said that Mr Trump told the Russian leader Putin he looks forward to "a strong and enduring relationship with Russia and the people of Russia".
In a statement issued after the call, the Kremlin said Mr Putin expressed readiness to establish a "partner-like" dialogue with Mr Trump's incoming administration.
Nigel Farage posted this image on Twitter of his meeting with Donald Trump at Trump Tower at the weekend
Controversial Ukip leader Nigel Farage has hinted that British government ministers are sounding him out about dealing with Donald Trump, as he revealed the US president-elect's close advisers have "reservations" about Theresa May's cabinet.
The interim Ukip leader, who became the first British politician to meet Mr Trump since his shock victory, insisted he would act as a bridge between Downing Street and Trump Tower if he was called on to do so.
"I am not going to go into whatever private phone calls I may, or may not, have had with individual ministers," Mr Farage said when asked whether he had contact with cabinet figures regarding his close ties to the incoming Republican president.
"It would appear that the apparatchiks in Downing Street keep saying very negative things about me. I'd have thought that's just a little bit short-sighted, frankly," he added in a In a pointed swipe at No 10 officials who have dismissed his links to Mr Trump.
"I would have thought, in the national interest, they perhaps ought to bury their personal enmity towards me and we ought to have a constructive conversation."
Mr Farage disclosed that members of the president-elect's inner circle were concerned about unflattering comments made by British cabinet ministers, though Mr Trump told him he had a "nice" phone call with Mrs May.
"He said he had a nice conversation, although some of his team had reservations about what members of the cabinet have said during the election. Believe you me, his team are conscious of the comments," Mr Farage said.
The pair met at Trump Tower in New York and spent more than an hour discussing the president-elect's victory, global politics and the status of Brexit, according to Ukip.
Mr Farage used US media appearances to warn Mrs May that she needed to "mend fences" with Mr Trump after the "quite rude" things said about him by leading Tories.
Rude
"I think he has got to meet her. Mrs May's team have been quite rude about Trump, so there are some fences to be mended," he said when asked on Fox News why the president-elect should meet the PM after the things senior Tories had said about him.
Downing Street moved to try to play down the significance of the Ukip leader's meeting with Mr Trump.
A spokesman for Mrs May said No 10 "has been consistent that Mr Farage has no role" in the government's relationship with the incoming US administration.
The interim Ukip leader has suggested that "insulting" comments about Mr Trump by senior Tories may have been the reason why Mrs May was only 10th on the president-elect's list of foreign leaders to call after his surprise US election win last Tuesday.
Mr Farage's remarks came after it emerged Mrs May's joint chief of staff, Fiona Hill, posted last December: "Donald Trump is a chump."
Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson was scathing about Mr Trump's attitude to Muslims while he was mayor of London last December.
"Donald Trump is clearly out of his mind if he thinks that's a sensible way to proceed, to ban people going to the United States in that way, or to any country.
"He's betraying a quite stupefying ignorance that makes him, frankly, unfit to hold the office of president of the United States," said Mr Johnson.
Mr Farage said he "stressed the importance of the Anglo-American relationship" at the meeting and asked Mr Trump to return a bust of Winston Churchill to the White House Oval Office, a party spokesman said.
The statue was removed under Barack Obama's administration and Mr Trump was said to have "expressed excitement" over the idea.
Mr Farage summed up the Trump team's mood on election night, saying: "I wouldn't say they were surprised to win, but I think they were relieved to win."
As the head of President-Elect Donald Trumps transition team and with a promise from Trump of huge influence over policy, Mike Pence may be one of the most powerful Vice Presidents in history come January 2017.
And if Donald Trump dies or resigns, Pence will be the one to take over.
So what do we know about the former Indiana governor, and what policies will he push from his place on the winning ticket?
Immigration
Expand Close Vice-president-elect Pence. Photo: Reuters / Facebook
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Whatsapp Vice-president-elect Pence. Photo: Reuters
Mike Pence shares most of Donald Trumps stances on immigration, favouring deportations for illegal immigrants and remaining solid on the issue of building a wall on the Mexican border. He has also opposed the acceptance of Syrian refugees, attempting as governor to prevent any being resettled in Indiana.
In the Vice-Presidential debate against Senator Tim Kaine, he spoke against Sanctuary cities, where immigrants cannot be asked about their status by law enforcement.
Pence disagrees with Trump on his proposal to temporarily ban Muslims from entering the US: in 2015, before he was on the ticket, he called the proposal offensive and unconstitutional. This may be one part of Trumps platform that Pence will urge him to row back on.
Abortion
Mike Pence is staunchly pro-life and will doubtless use his position to advance that cause. As governor, he signed a number of regulations restricting abortion into law; it also required that any foetal tissue be buried or cremated. The law was struck down by a federal judge this year.
Expand Close Vice President-elect Mike Pence speaks as he wife, Karen, and daughter, Charlotte, stand next to him during a public rally Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings) / Facebook
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Whatsapp Vice President-elect Mike Pence speaks as he wife, Karen, and daughter, Charlotte, stand next to him during a public rally Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)
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He has also supported the defunding of Planned Parenthood and has said that he hopes Roe V Wade, which guarantees a woman access to abortion, will be consigned to the ash heap of history.
In the Vice-Presidential debate, however, he stated in no uncertain terms that he and Donald Trump would never support punishments for women who access abortion, even if they do manage to ban it. He wants an abortion ban, but favours placing with responsibility with doctors and not women.
LGBTQ issues
Much of the controversy surrounding Mike Pence comes his record on LGBTQ issues. His most prominent action this issue was to sign the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, which opponents claim is targeted anti-LGBTQ discrimination, into law. He was also at the centre of the fight against same-sex marriage in Indiana.
Expand Close (From L to R) Melania Trump, US President-elect Donald Trump, House Speaker Paul Ryan and Vice President-elect Mike Pence meet at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on November 10, 2016. / AFP PHOTO / NICHOLAS KAMMNICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images / Facebook
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Whatsapp (From L to R) Melania Trump, US President-elect Donald Trump, House Speaker Paul Ryan and Vice President-elect Mike Pence meet at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on November 10, 2016. / AFP PHOTO / NICHOLAS KAMMNICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images
As a congressman, Pence opposed the federal funding for HIV and AIDS treatment unless the government also funded programmes discouraging same-sex relationships and, more recently, opposed the end of Dont Ask, Dont Tell.
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During Governor Pences re-election campaign, he was seen to distance himself from these stances, with his deputy campaign manager Marc Lotter saying he was choosing not to focus on social issues. It is unclear at this point whether he will use his new position to advance anti-LGBTQ positions or focus on his other policy interests.
Foreign policy
Pence largely agrees with Trumps stances on foreign policy: increase military spending, renegotiate the Iran nuclear deal and use military force abroad. In the Vice-Presidential debate, he proposed the deployment of military shields to Eastern Europe and supported the military targeting of the Assad regime in Syria if the bombing of civilians does not cease.
Mike Pence is pro-free trade, having previously expressed support for trade deals such as TPP which Trump has staunchly opposed. But Pence has kept generally quiet about these deals since coming onto the ticket, indicating that free trade will not be a red-line issue for him.
The economy
As governor of Indiana, Mike Pence favoured low taxes and low spending, and will likely do the same as Donald Trumps right hand.
In congress, he proposed a bill that would cap federal spending, which did not pass. Pence believes that low spending and low taxes allow the economy to flourish and that jobs should come from the growth of business, not from the growth of government spending.
In the aftermath of Donald Trump's electoral victory, the New York Times executive editor and publisher have promised readers to report world news more accurately.
Publisher Arthur Sulzberger Jr and executive editor Dean Baquet questioned, in a unprecedented move, whether the paper had underestimated Mr Trump's support among American voters.
The left-wing media has been widely accused of failing to fully appreciate the scale of discontent at the politicial elite, of which Hillary Clinton was viewed by many as epitomising.
The New York Times and the Washington Post in particular were very critical in their stance and coverage of Mr Trump.
In October, the paper refused to retract an article in which two women accused Donald Trump of sexual assault, after the Republican presidential nominee threatened to sue the newspaper. In a letter, a lawyer for the Times all but dared the property developer to make good on his threat.
We published newsworthy information about a subject of deep public concern, wrote David McCraw, the papers assistant general counsel. If Mr Trump disagrees, if he believes that American citizens had no right to hear what these women had to say and that the law of this country forces us and those who would criticise him to stand silent or be punished, we welcome the opportunity to have a court set him straight.
The article featured interviews with 74-year-old Jessica Leeds, who said Mr Trump had groped her on a flight more than 30 years ago, and with Rachel Crooks, whom Mr Trump allegedly kissed on the mouth against her will as she introduced herself to him in 2005, when she was 22.
Published on Saturday, the editorial said: "After such an erratic and unpredictable election there are inevitable questions.
"Did Donald Trumps sheer unconventionality lead us and other news outlets to underestimate his support among American voters?
"What forces and strains in America drove this divisive election and outcome?
"Most important, how will a president who remains a largely enigmatic figure actually govern when he takes office?"
The piece announced the paper's plan to rededicate itself to reporting American and world news "honestly, without fear or favour".
The editorial stated: "When the biggest political story of the year reached a dramatic and unexpected climax late Tuesday night, our newsroom turned on a dime and did what it has done for nearly two years - cover the 2016 election with agility and creativity.
"As we reflect on the momentous result, and the months of reporting and polling that preceded it, we aim to rededicate ourselves to the fundamental mission of Times journalism.
"That is to report America and the world honestly, without fear or favor, striving always to understand and reflect all political perspectives and life experiences in the stories that we bring to you."
Mr Trump's victory has been meant with widespread protests across America.
Thouands of marchers took to the streets of New York, Los Angeles and Chicago on Saturday night as protests continued. At least 25 cities have seen major anti-Trump demonstrations in the five days since the controversial businessmans shock election victory.
Mike Pence, the deeply conservative vice president-elect, has had his postbox filled with letters thanking him for "his donation" to Planned Parenthood - following a social media campaign to donate to the charity in his name.
Mr Pence is currently governor of Indiana a state which has passed some of the most restrictive abortion legislation in the country. Over 60 per cent of Indiana women now live in a county without an abortion clinic, as 93 per cent of Indiana counties have no facility. By comparison, only five per cent of California women live in a county without a clinic.
As a gesture of protest, anonymous donations have been made to Planned Parenthood in his name, with the automatically-generated notes thanking him for his support being sent to his office in Indianapolis.
Planned Parenthood hasn't commented in detail on the post-election trend of donating in Mr Pence's honour, but said on social media they had been "blown away by the support" and acknowledged that many people are donating in both Mr Pence's and Hillary Clinton's names.
His running mate Donald Trump campaigned for the presidency on a pro life stance, and said that he will appoint a judge to the Supreme Court who is against abortion.
Gretchen Borchelt, vice president for reproductive rights and health at the National Womens Law Center, said Mr Pence was a driving force behind Mr Trumps anti-abortion stance.
Hes absolutely the one pushing this, she told The Telegraph. He was a leader in Congress to defund Planned Parenthood, and has enacted some incredibly restrictive legislation in Indiana.
This has always been a priority for him and now he has more power.
The judge appointed by the Trump administration could attempt to overturn Roe v Wade, the 1973 decision that guaranteed a womans right to have an abortion.
Mr Trump said in his first television interview, on Sunday night, that, if the federal law is revoked, it will go back to the states to make their own rules.
When it was pointed out that some states would then ban abortion entirely, he replied: well, theyll perhaps have to go to another state.
Planned Parenthood responded that it would campaign vigorously against his proposal, tweeting: "Not on our watch."
Ms Borchelt said that Mr Trump could indeed oversee the repeal of Roe v Wade if another Supreme Court judge retires, and he replaces the judge with a pro-life advocate. The result would be a series of states outlawing abortion entirely.
But, she said, they would face fierce resistance.
Seven out of ten Americans think that abortion should be legal, so if Mississippi or Louisiana or Texas tries to ban abortion entirely, there would be a huge outcry, she said.
People would be shocked and appalled and terrified. And we are going to fight against that.
It would be a throwback to a dangerous era.
The US already has vast swathes of its country where abortion is made all but inaccessible.
In 1992, the Court upheld the basic right to abortion in Planned Parenthood v. Casey, but that ruling also expanded the ability of the states to enact restrictions on women's access to abortion insisting that parents of minors give consent, allowing health insurance companies to refuse to pay, and imposing restrictions on clinics such as the width of corridors and size of rooms.
Ms Borchelt said she fears that states will be emboldened by the president-elects position, and now try new ways to curtail access to abortion.
Its going to be interesting to see what they think of next, she said.
Missouri and Mississippi have only one clinic in the state. In Louisiana there are four; in Arkansas three. In Texas, the number of clinics has fallen from 41 to 19 in the last three years.
Over half of women in the Midwest live in counties without an abortion clinic, and 49 per cent of women living in the South, according to the most recent study by the Guttmacher Institute, which advocates for reproductive rights.
Abortion clinics are so few and far between in the area between Florida and New Mexico, north into the Midwest, that the region is already described as an abortion desert, and women are increasingly travelling across state lines to avoid long waits for appointments and escape the legal barriers in their home states.
The National Abortion Federation hotline referred 209 Texas patients to New Mexico last year, compared with 21 in 2013, said Vicki Saporta, the groups president and chief executive. The number of Texas patients at one Albuquerque clinic alone more than tripled, jumping from 19 to 67 last year, she said
Three in ten American women will have had an abortion by the time she reaches age 45; almost 70 per cent of them are classed as economically disadvantaged and 61 per cent already have at least one child.
Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022]
Donald Trump named Republican National Committee chairman Reince Priebus as his White House chief of staff, elevating one of his loyal GOP advisers with a deep expertise of the Washington establishment.
Mr Priebus, a close ally of House Speaker Paul Ryan, called the appointment "an honour" and predicted the billionaire "will be a great president for all Americans".
Mr Trump also named Stephen Bannon, his campaign CEO and executive on leave from conservative website Breitbart, to be the president-elect's chief strategist and senior counsel.
With vice president-elect Mike Pence as transition chief, the trio was expected to organise the incoming administration, according to a statement from the Trump camp.
There was much to steady. Last night, the combative billionaire took to Twitter to settle some scores.
During a four-hour spree, Trump savaged 'The New York Times' and gloated about the GOP stalwarts lining up to congratulate him, bragging that staunch critics and GOP rivals John Kasich, Mitt Romney and Jeb Bush had sent congratulations. Former presidents George W and George HW Bush also had sent their "best wishes on the win. Very nice!" 'The New York Times', Trump wrote to his 14 million followers, is "dishonest" and "highly inaccurate".
He also attributed his election win to his performance in the presidential debates against Democrat Hillary Clinton.
"The debates, especially the second and third, plus speeches and intensity of the large rallies, plus OUR GREAT SUPPORTERS, gave us the win!"
As Mr Trump revenge-tweeted, threats flew between power brokers, and protests across the country continued.
More tension emerged yesterday when Mr Trump's campaign manager, Kellyanne Conway, said Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid should be careful in a "legal sense" about characterising Mr Trump as a sexual predator. When asked whether Mr Trump was threatening to sue Mr Reid, Ms Conway said no.
But Adam Jentleson, Mr Reid's deputy chief of staff, said Mr Trump was "hiding behind his Twitter account and sending his staff on TV to threaten his critics".
Meanwhile, another Trump aide - Rudy Giuliani - suggested that the president-elect should have a "blind trust" to run his global empire to avoid conflicts of interest.
Also yesterday, Republicans backed off decades of investigating Mrs Clinton. House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy said the GOP-led congressional Republicans would focus on policy and leave any probes of Mrs Clinton to law enforcement.
Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly said Donald Trump tried to give her gifts, including a free stay at one of his hotels, as part of what she called his pattern of trying to influence news coverage of his presidential campaign.
In her memoir 'Settle for More', to be released tomorrow, Kelly says Trump may have got a pre-debate tip about her first question, in which she confronted him with his critical comments about women. Her book also details the insults and threats she received after Trump's tirades objecting to her reporting.
Kelly, host of Fox News Channel's 'The Kelly Report', said Trump routinely attempted to gain favourable treatment from other journalists and commentators. "This is actually one of the untold stories of the 2016 campaign: I was not the only journalist to whom Trump offered gifts clearly meant to shape coverage," Kelly said. He also attempted to woo them with praise, she said, adding, "This is smart, because the media is full of people whose egos need stroking."
When it became obvious that some reporters were "in the tank" for Trump, she alleges in one chapter, "certain TV hosts" would work with the candidate in advance on occasional Trump criticism so they would appear unbiased.
Resisting Trump's attempts to buy her goodwill with an offer to comp her "girls' weekend" stay at his New York City hotel or fly her and her husband to visit his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida was an easy ethical decision, Kelly wrote. Harder still was rejecting the ratings bonanza that the colourful GOP contender could deliver with his "unscripted, unguarded" approach that made for great TV but was the equivalent of "television crack cocaine".
She and her producer agreed they had to provide balance and be judicious in their coverage, asserting this was not a "directive to cover Trump negatively or to ignore him".
It was at the first GOP primary debate last August that Kelly questioned Trump about derogatory comments he'd made about women. The day before, Trump had called Fox News executive Bill Sammon to say he had heard that Kelly's first question would be a pointed one aimed at him.
Steve Bannon, campaign CEO for President-elect Donald Trump, leaves Trump Tower, Friday, Nov. 11, 2016, in New York. (AP Photo/ Evan Vucci)
He has been described as the most dangerous political operative in America. Now he is one of the most powerful.
Steve Bannon has been announced as Donald Trump's chief strategist. On Sunday night Mr Trumps team confirmed that Reince Priebus had been appointed chief of staff.
But, in a telling twist, Mr Bannon, 62, was named first on the list, and described as Mr Priebuss equal - a word that may be causing alarm in the capital.
The appointment marks the pinnacle of a remarkable career that has seen Mr Bannon stage a series of Gatsby-esque reinventions transforming himself from working class Navy man to Goldman Sachs financier, Hollywood producer and then king of Americas right-wing media.
Mr Trump described Mr Bannon and Mr Priebus as highly qualified leaders.
But while Mr Priebus, chair of the Republican National Committee, was seen as a reassuringly safe pair of hands, Mr Bannons appointment was greeted by some with horror.
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 Marchers approach a freeway onramp guarded by police during a protest against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Cole Howard Police detain a demonstrator during a protest against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 11, 2016. REUTERS/William Gagan People take part in a protest against Republican president-elect Donald Trump at the Washington Square park in the neighborhood of Manhattan in New York, U.S., November 11, 2016. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz People take part in a protest against Republican president-elect Donald Trump at the Washington Square park in the neighborhood of Manhattan in New York, U.S., November 11, 2016. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz People take part in a protest against Republican president-elect Donald Trump at the Washington Square park in the neighborhood of Manhattan in New York, U.S., November 11, 2016. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz Protesters lock arms during a standoff with a police car along the pipeline route during a protest against the Dakota Access pipeline near the Standing Rock Indian Reservation in St. Anthony, North Dakota, U.S. November 11, 2016. REUTERS/Stephanie Keith People take part in a protest against Republican president-elect Donald Trump at the Washington Square park in the neighborhood of Manhattan in New York, U.S., November 11, 2016. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz Paul Watts, of Graffiti Removal Services, works for free on clean up after a protest to the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 11, 2016. REUTERS/Steve Dipaola People take part in a protest against Republican president-elect Donald Trump at the Washington Square park in the neighborhood of Manhattan in New York, U.S., November 11, 2016. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz Paul Watts, of Graffiti Removal Services, works for free on clean up after a protest to the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 11, 2016. REUTERS/Steve Dipaola TEMPLATE OUT A pedestrian walks by a boarded up business after a protest to the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 11, 2016. REUTERS/Steve Dipaola Pedestrians walk by a boarded up business after a protest to the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 11, 2016. REUTERS/Steve Dipaola A motorist who was caught in the middle of a riot threatens a demonstrator with detergent during a protest against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 10, 2016. REUTERS/William Gagan A motorist who was caught in the middle of a riot threatens a demonstrator with detergent during a protest against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 10, 2016. REUTERS/William Gagan Demonstrators push over a fence during a protest against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Cole Howard A demonstrator sits in the street during a protest against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Cole Howard A demonstrator sprays graffiti during a protest against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Cole Howard A demonstrator performs a burnout during a protest against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Cole Howard ES A demonstrator sets a news rack on fire as another wields a baseball bat (R) during a protest against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 11, 2016. REUTERS/William Gagan Demonstrators break a shop window during a protest against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 11, 2016. REUTERS/William Gagan Police block a freeway entrance during a protest against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 11, 2016. REUTERS/William Gagan Smoke rises during a protest against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 10, 2016. REUTERS/William Gagan Interstate 84 eastbound into the city is shut down as a result of protests against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States, in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Steve Dipaola / Facebook
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Whatsapp Marchers approach a freeway onramp guarded by police during a protest against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Portland, Oregon, U.S. November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Cole Howard
The racist, fascist extreme right is represented footsteps from the Oval Office, tweeted John Weaver, a Republican political consultant who was John Kasichs chief strategist. Be very vigilant America.
Dan Pfeiffer, former senior adviser to President Barack Obama, noted: Nation exhales because white nationalist only gets second most influential job in White House.
Yet Mr Trump will be delighted to have Mr Bannon by his side. If the president-elect really was looking for someone to shake things up in Washington, he has found it with Mr Bannon.
If theres an explosion or a fire somewhere, said Matthew Boyle, political editor for Mr Bannons website, Breitbart, Steves probably nearby with some matches.
Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Demonstrators chant slogans in New York during a protest against the election of Donald Trump (AP) Protesters are stopped by Los Angeles Police officers during a protest and march against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Los Angeles, California, U.S. November 11, 2016. Photo: REUTERS/Kevork Djansezian Protesters are surrounded by Los Angeles Police Department officers before they were detained in Grand park across Los Angeles City hall after a march and rally against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Los Angeles, California, U.S. Photo: REUTERS/Kevork Djansezian Protesters are detained by Los Angeles Police Department officers after a march and rally against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Los Angeles, California, U.S. November 12, 2016. Photo: REUTERS/Kevork Djansezian California Highway Patrol officers are deployed at the entrances of the 110 freeway in an attempt to stop protesters getting on the freeway to block traffic during a march and rally against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Los Angeles, California, U.S. November 12, 2016. Photo: REUTERS/Kevork Djansezian Protesters march in the streets of Downtown Los Angeles during march and rally against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Los Angeles, California. Photo: REUTERS/Kevork Djansezian Protesters take part in a march and rally against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States on the streets of Downtown Los Angeles, California, U.S. November 12, 2016. Photo: REUTERS/Kevork Djansezian Protesters march in the streets of Downtown Los Angeles during march and rally against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Los Angeles, California. Photo: REUTERS/Kevork Djansezian Several hundred protesters are arrested by Los Angeles Police Department officers after a march and rally in protest to the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Los Angeles, California, U.S. November 12, 2016. Photo: REUTERS/Kevork Djansezian Protesters march in the street to demonstrate against the election of President-elect Donald Trump in Atlanta, Friday. (AP Photo/David Goldman) Michael Moore joins demonstrators in New York during a protest against the election of Donald Trump (AP) Police detain a demonstrator at a protest in Portland, Oregon, against the election of Donald Trump. Photo: Reuters People gather at Portland City Hall to protest of the election of president-elect, Donald Trump. Photo: Mark Graves/The Oregonian via AP / Facebook
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Whatsapp Demonstrators chant slogans in New York during a protest against the election of Donald Trump (AP)
Born into a poor family in Norfolk, Virginia, Mr Bannon grew up in sight of the naval yard and signed up on leaving college, spending four years at sea aboard a destroyer. Deployed to the Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf in 1979, he found his faith in the commander in chief, Jimmy Carter, fading.
So Mr Bannon left the Navy and studied for an MBA at Harvard Business School, landing a job at Goldman Sachs. Mr Bannon threw himself into investment banking loving the long hours and camaraderie, and likening it to being in the nerve centre of a warship.
In 1990 Mr Bannon left Goldman Sachs to start up his own investment firm with a couple of former colleagues, and Bannon & Co was born.
The boutique investment bank specialised in the media, realising, ahead of the curve, that film studios and archives could be valuable assets. His company ended up working on MGMs studio financing, and handling the acquisitions when Polygram Records moved into the film business.
Along the way, Mr Bannon ended up with a stake in a fledgling television show: Seinfeld.
By then he was rich, and moved into Hollywood productions himself becoming an executive producer of films including Anthony Hopkinss 1999 Oscar-nominated Titus. He started making his own films, specialising in political stories inspired by the September 11 attacks and his own disillusionment with President Carter when he was a sailor.
I come from a blue-collar, Irish Catholic, pro-Kennedy, pro-union family of Democrats, Mr Bannon told Bloomberg.
I wasnt political until I got into the service and saw how badly Jimmy Carter ------ things up.
I became a huge Reagan admirer. Still am.
But what turned me against the whole establishment was coming back from running companies in Asia in 2008 and seeing that Bush had ------ up as badly as Carter. The whole country was a disaster.
He made a Reagan-celebrating documentary in 2004, In the Face of Evil, and grabbed the attention of the American right wing; he appeared regularly on Fox News, produced a documentary about Sarah Palin, and made films celebrating the Tea Party.
Through this introduction to politics he then transformed, yet again this time taking over the Breitbart website, after its founder Andrew Breitbart died of a heart attack in March 2012, aged 43.
The site, which attracts 21 million hits a month, is described by Bloomberg as a haven for people who think Fox News is too polite and restrained.
Its headlines both delight and enrage America World Health Organisation report: Trannies 49xs higher HIV rate; Theres no hiring bias against women in tech, they just suck at interviews and Birth control makes women unattractive and crazy.
It was Breitbart which first exposed the Anthony Weiner sexting scandal which was to surge back into the headlines with just days to go until the election, and seriously harm the Clinton campaign.
The site had been tipped off about the then-Congressmans proclivity for sexting with female admirers, so paid trackers to follow his Twitter account 24 hours a day and eventually intercepted a crotch shot Weiner inadvertently made public.
Mr Bannon appears to revel in the controversy.
Dressing frequently in cargo shorts and flip flops, he is a fast-talking showman with a penchant for the word dude.
Thrice-married, his second wife Mary Louise Piccard accused him of domestic abuse and anti Semitism.
The biggest problem he had with Archer is the number of Jews that attend, said Ms Piccard in a statement to the court. He said that he doesn't like the way they raise their kids to be 'whiny brats' and that he didn't want the girls going to school with Jews. Mr Bannon has denied the accusations.
The website took a strongly pro-Trump stance; Mr Bannon is zealous in his attacks on Mrs Clinton and the establishment. Paul Ryan, the speaker, has been a particular target of Mr Bannons ire, with Breitbart staff members alleging their boss told them to attack him at any opportunity.
In August Mr Bannon was made manager of Mr Trumps campaign; a fact celebrated by David Duke, the former KKK leader who was running for senate in Louisiana.
Mr Bannon was described as a street brawler, but his no-holds-barred style appealed to Mr Trump.
Many former employees of Breitbart News are afraid of Steve Bannon, wrote Ben Shapiro, a former editor-at-large of Breitbart, who resigned in disgust at the sites fawning coverage of Mr Trump.
He is a vindictive, nasty figure, infamous for verbally abusing supposed friends and threatening enemies. Bannon is a smarter version of Trump: hes an aggressive self-promoter who name-drops to heighten his profile and woo bigger names, and then uses those bigger names as stepping stools to his next destination.
Mr Shapiro, who wrote in August about his shock at the appointment, savaged his former boss and issued a dire warning.
Trump may be his final destination. Or it may not, he wrote. He will attempt to ruin anyone who impedes his unending ambition.
Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022]
File photos of Donald Trump and Theresa May, as Nigel Farage has insisted Mr Trump will have to deal with Mrs May, despite her top team being "rude" about him Credit: PA Wire
Theresa May is facing a growing Cabinet backlash over her decision to dismiss Nigel Farage despite him being the only British politician to meet with Donald Trump since his victory.
The Daily Telegraph understands a number of members of the Cabinet and other Government ministers believe the Prime Minister's allies have made a mistake by referring to Mr Farage as an irrelevance.
One Cabinet source also accused Downing Street of having "made no plan" for a Trump victory, despite Government claims that officials have for months been holding talks with members of his inner-circle.
Mrs May has made clear that none of her ministers will be allowed to speak to Mr Farage, the interim Ukip leader, despite his close links to Mr Trump.
Mr Farage on Saturday spent nearly one hour with the President-elect at the Trump tower in New York.
Writing in the Telegraph, Mr Farage says that he was greeted like a long-lost friend by Mr Trump, who he supported on the campaign trail in America.
Expand Close Nigel Farage posted this image on Twitter of his meeting with Donald Trump at Trump Tower at the weekend / Facebook
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Whatsapp Nigel Farage posted this image on Twitter of his meeting with Donald Trump at Trump Tower at the weekend
Senior sources in the Government have now made clear that Downing Street will have to back down and allow ministers to have conversations with Mr Farage if it helps them to develop their relationship with the new President-elects inner circle.
In further developments:
*Mrs May will today say that Mr Trumps victory shows the Government must deal with the "overlooked" communities that have been transformed irrevocably by immigration without the "permission" of British voters.
*Mr Trump vowed to immediately deport 3 million illegal immigrants with criminal records in one of his first acts as President, but admitted that his wall at the Mexican border may just have some fencing in parts.
*Marine Le Pen, the leader of Frances far-Right Front National party, said that Mr Trump has started a global revolution that will lead to her election and the destruction of the European Union.
Mrs May has previously described comments by Mr Trump as divisive.
It has also emerged that before entering Downing Street Fiona Hill and Nick Timothy, the Prime Minister's joint-chiefs of staff, mocked Mr Trump online.
Ms Hill referred to him as a chump and Mr Timothy said that as a Tory he did not want any reaching out to Mr Trump.
Mr Farage said that Mrs May should in the national interest allow him to provide introductions and to start the necessary process of mending fences.
However, Downing Street on Sunday insisted again that Mr Farage will have no official or unofficial role in the months ahead.
Senior Westminster sources even went so far as to accuse him of treachery for his decision to bad mouth the Prime Minister, saying there is a tradition of not doing party politics abroad.
However, there are growing signs that senior figures in Mrs Mays administration do not agree with her hostility to Mr Farage, pointing out that he was the first foreign politician to meet with Mr Trump since the US election.
We should not dismiss Nigel Farage, a senior Government source said.
Another source said that it is now clear that some dialogue is essential with Mr Farage, even if it is informal.
Conversations will have to happen, the source added.
Writing in this newspaper of his meeting with Mr Trump, Mr Farage says: The only slight negative that I picked up was the sense that so many senior Conservative figures and indeed important staff figures who now work within Number 10 had been so unrelentingly negative about the Donald. Clearly, there are fences that need to be mended.
He adds: If the President-elect trusts me then I would hope that some in the British government could do the same thing. I would be very happy to provide introductions and to start the necessary process of mending fences. And I would not want anything in return. I hope in our national interest that some sense prevails on this.
In a separate interview, Mr Farage also said that Mr Trump told him that he has reservations about Mrs Mays Government because of the hostile comments made about him.
Asked directly if he had contact with Cabinet figures regarding his close ties to the incoming Republican president, Mr Farage told Sky News: "I am not going to go into whatever private phone calls I may, or may not, have had with individual ministers."
Iain Duncan Smith, the former work and pensions secretary, said: Nigel Farage is just trying to get attention. This is an ego trip - not a diplomatic one.
While the PM focuses on sensible, measured diplomacy in Britain's national interest, all Farage cares about is talking rubbish abroad.
Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022]
Campaign manager Kellyanne Conway arrives at Trump Tower in New York to meet with her boss (REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz)
President-elect Donald Trump backed away from his promise to build a wall on the US-Mexican border, saying some areas could instead be "fencing".
But he insisted he would deport up to three million illegal immigrants who have criminal records.
Trump, who made his pledge to force Mexico to pay for a border wall a centrepiece of his White House campaign, said "for certain areas" he would accept fencing instead of a brick-and-mortar wall, according to excerpts released yesterday of his interview with the CBS program '60 Minutes'.
"But certain areas, a wall is more appropriate. I'm very good at this, it's called construction, there could be some fencing," the New York real estate developer said.
Mr Trump, who defeated Democrat Hillary Clinton in Tuesday's election and replaces Democratic President Barack Obama on January 20, also said once he takes office he would remove immigrants in the country illegally with criminal records.
"What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people, probably two million, it could be even three million, we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate. But we're getting them out of our country," he said.
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During the campaign, Mr Trump said he would deport the estimated 11 million immigrants in the country illegally, most of whom are Hispanic. In calling for the construction of a border wall, Mr Trump said Mexico was sending criminals and rapists into the United States.
Mr Trump and his senior advisers have signalled they could be flexible on some of his campaign promises.
Republican House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan, who will play a key role in getting Mr Trump's agenda through the Republican-led Congress, backed away from Mr Trump's promise of a "deportation force" to round up and deport immigrants in the country illegally.
"We are not planning on erecting a deportation force. Donald Trump's not planning on that," Mr Ryan told CNN's 'State of the Union' programme.
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 (L-R) Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-WI) shows Melania Trump, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, and Vice-President Mike Pence the Mall from the Speaker's Balcony on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Joshua Roberts Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-WI) (L) shows Melania Trump (R) and U.S. President-elect Donald Trump (C) the Mall from the Speaker's Balcony on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Joshua Roberts (L-R) Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-WI) shows Melania Trump and U.S. President-elect Donald Trump the Mall from the Speaker's Balcony on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Joshua Roberts TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY Congressional pages react after U.S. President-elect Trump and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) walked past them to meet at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, U.S. November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst U.S. Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-WI) (L) shows Melania Trump and U.S. President-elect Donald Trump the Mall from the Speaker's Balcony on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Joshua Roberts U.S. President-elect Trump (2nd R), his wife Melania Trump (R), Vice President-elect Mike Pence (4th R) and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) (3rd R) walk together to meet in McConnell's office at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, U.S. November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst U.S. Vice President-elect Mike Pence (2nd L) smiles as he and President-elect Trump (2nd R) walk with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) (R) to McConnell's office at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, U.S. November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst President-elect Donald Trump, his wife Melania Trumpwalk to a meeting with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell at the U.S. Capitol for a meeting November 10, 2016 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images) US President-elect Donald Trump (C) walks with his wife Melania Trump, and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) on Capitol Hill in Washington,DC on November 10, 2016. / AFP PHOTO / NICHOLAS KAMMNICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images US President-elect Donald Trump (2nd R) walks with his wife Melania Trump, and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) on Capitol Hill in Washington,DC on November 10, 2016. / AFP PHOTO / NICHOLAS KAMMNICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images US President-elect Donald Trump walks onto a balcony at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on November 10, 2016. / AFP PHOTO / NICHOLAS KAMMNICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images (From L to R) Melania Trump, US President-elect Donald Trump, House Speaker Paul Ryan and Vice President-elect Mike Pence meet at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on November 10, 2016. / AFP PHOTO / NICHOLAS KAMMNICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images US President-elect Donald Trump (2nd R) walks with his wife Melania Trump, Vice President-elect Mike Pence (L) and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) on Capitol Hill in Washington,DC on November 10, 2016. / AFP PHOTO / YURI GRIPASYURI GRIPAS/AFP/Getty Images US President-elect Donald Trump (C) walks with his wife Melania Trump and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) on Capitol Hill in Washington,DC on November 10, 2016. / AFP PHOTO / YURI GRIPASYURI GRIPAS/AFP/Getty Images Melania Trump listens to her husband US President-elect Donald Trump speak to the press at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on November 10, 2016. / AFP PHOTO / NICHOLAS KAMMNICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (L), walks with President-elect Donald Trump at the U.S. Capitol for a meeting November 10, 2016 in Washington, DC. Earlier in the day president-elect Trump met with U.S. President Barack Obama at the White House. (Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images) Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (2L), walks with President-elect Donald Trump, his wife Melania Trump, and Vice President-elect Mike Pence (L), at the U.S. Capitol for a meeting November 10, 2016 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images) Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (2L), walks with President-elect Donald Trump, his wife Melania Trump, and Vice President-elect Mike Pence (L), at the U.S. Capitol for a meeting November 10, 2016 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images) US President-elect Donald Trump (C) walk with Vice President-elect Pence (L) and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell(R) R-KY on Capitol Hill in Washington,DC on November 10, 2016. / AFP PHOTO / YURI GRIPASYURI GRIPAS/AFP/Getty Images US President-elect Donald Trump (C) walks with his wife Melania Trump and Vice President-Elect Pence (2nd L) before a meeting with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell(L) R-KY on Capitol Hill in Washington,DC on November 10, 2016. / AFP PHOTO / YURI GRIPASYURI GRIPAS/AFP/Getty Images President Barack Obama and President-elect Donald Trump shake hands following their meeting in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais) President Barack Obama meets with President-elect Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais) President Barack Obama listens to President-elect Donald Trump speak to members of the media during their meeting in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais) President Barack Obama meets with President-elect Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais) U.S. President Barack Obama (R) meets with President-elect Donald Trump to discuss transition plans in the White House Oval Office in Washington, U.S., November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque - TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY President Barack Obama meets with President-elect Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais) Journalists gather on the driveway in front of the West Wing in anticipation of the arrival of President-Elect Donald Trump at the White House. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) / Facebook
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Whatsapp (L-R) Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-WI) shows Melania Trump, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, and Vice-President Mike Pence the Mall from the Speaker's Balcony on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., November 10, 2016. REUTERS/Joshua Roberts
"I think we should put people's minds at ease.
"That is not what our focus is. That is not what we're focused on. We're focused on securing the border."
Kevin McCarthy, the No.2 House Republican, said on 'Fox News Sunday' the wall with Mexico could in parts be a "virtual" wall patrolled by drones.
"You have to put a wall, it could be all virtual with the UAV airplanes as well, but I think that is doable and one of the first things that needs to be done," McCarthy said, referring to unmanned aerial vehicles.
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 A supporter of the far-right English Defence League group is restrained by police after shouting his views, and disrupting an anti-racism protest against U.S. President-elect Donald Trump winning the American election, outside the U.S. embassy in London, Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham) People protest on the University of Connecticut campus against the election of Republican Donald Trump as President Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016, in Storrs, Conn. (AP Photo/Pat Eaton-Robb) Protesters walk in the middle of traffic lanes after Donald Trump's election victory, Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016 in downtown, Portland, Ore. Portland police made no arrests during Tuesday night's post-election protest. (Stephanie Yao Long//The Oregonian via AP) Protesters walk in the middle of traffic lanes after Donald Trump's election victory, Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016 in downtown, Portland, Ore. Portland police made no arrests during Tuesday night's post-election protest. (Stephanie Yao Long//The Oregonian via AP) Berkeley High School students assemble on the UC Berkeley campus in protest to the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Berkeley, California, U.S. November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Elijah Nouvelage TEMPLATE OUT A young man wearing a Berkeley High Class of 2016 shirt wipes away ters during a protest in response to the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Berkeley, California, U.S. November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Elijah Nouvelage Berkeley High School students begin to march after assembling in front of Sproul Hall on the UC Berkeley campus in protest to the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Berkeley, California, U.S. November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Elijah Nouvelage Alice Bynum (C) stands with other Berkeley High School staff members and holds a sign while attending a protest about the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Berkeley, California, U.S. November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Elijah Nouvelage Two young women hold up a sign reading "nasty women unite" in protest to the election of Republican Donald Trump as President of the United States in Berkeley, California, U.S. November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Elijah Nouvelage Placards lay on the floor during an anti-racism protest against U.S. President-elect Donald Trump outside of the U.S. Embassy in London, Britain, November 9, 2016. Picture rotated 180 degrees. REUTERS/Hannah McKay People hold placards at an anti-racism protest against U.S. President-elect Donald Trump outside of the U.S. Embassy in London, Britain, November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Hannah McKay People hold placards at an anti-racism protest against U.S. President-elect Donald Trump outside of the U.S. Embassy in London, Britain, November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Hannah McKay A supporter of the far-right English Defence League group is restrained by police during a protest against U.S. President-elect Donald Trump outside of the U.S. Embassy in London, Britain, November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Hannah McKay A supporter of the far-right English Defence League group expresses his views to media during a protest against U.S. President-elect Donald Trump outside of the U.S. Embassy in London, Britain, November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Hannah McKay People hold placards at an anti-racism protest against U.S. President-elect Donald Trump outside of the U.S. Embassy in London, Britain, November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Hannah McKay People hold placards at an anti-racism protest against U.S. President-elect Donald Trump outside of the U.S. Embassy in London, Britain, November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Hannah McKay A woman holds a placard at an anti-racism protest against U.S. President-elect Donald Trump outside of the U.S. Embassy in London, Britain, November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Hannah McKay Demonstrators protest against the election of U.S. president-elect Donald Trump in front of the White House in Washington November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque People hold placards at an anti-racism protest against U.S. President-elect Donald Trump outside of the U.S. Embassy in London, Britain, November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Hannah McKay A man holds a placard at an anti-racism protest against U.S. President-elect Donald Trump outside of the U.S. Embassy in London, Britain, November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Hannah McKay FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NO RESALES. NO ARCHIVES A woman holds a placard at an anti-racism protest against U.S. President-elect Donald Trump outside of the U.S. Embassy in London, Britain, November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Hannah McKay A man holds placards at an anti-racism protest against U.S. President-elect Donald Trump outside of the U.S Embassy in London, Britain, November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Hannah McKay University of California, Davis students protest on campus in Davis, California, U.S. following the election of Donald Trump as President of the United States November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Max Whittaker/File Photo A protester faces a police line in downtown Oakland, Calif., early Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016. President-elect Donald TrumpAos victory set off multiple protests. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group via AP) Police officers walk past an overturned newspaper rack during protests in Oakland, Calif., late Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016. President-elect Donald TrumpAos victory set off multiple protests. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group via AP) Madeline Lopes, left, and Cassidy Irwin, both of Oakland, march with other protesters in downtown Oakland, Calif., early Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016. President-elect Donald TrumpAos victory set off multiple protests. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group via AP) An Oakland police officer checks out damage after a window was broken by protesters at a car dealership in downtown Oakland, Calif., on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016. President-elect Donald TrumpAos victory set off multiple protests. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group via AP) A trash fire burns during protests in Oakland, Calif., late Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016. President-elect Donald TrumpAos victory set off multiple protests. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group via AP) A woman yells as she takes part in a protest against President-elect Donald Trump, Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016, in Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren) University of California, Davis students protest on campus in Davis, California, U.S. following the election of Donald Trump as President of the United States November 9, 2016. REUTERS/Max Whittaker / Facebook
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Whatsapp A supporter of the far-right English Defence League group is restrained by police after shouting his views, and disrupting an anti-racism protest against U.S. President-elect Donald Trump winning the American election, outside the U.S. embassy in London, Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)
Mr Trump, who pledged to "drain the swamp" of corrupt insiders in the US capital, is considering a wide range of experienced Washington hands for his administration, as well as some officials with extensive lobbying experience.
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Yesterday, senior adviser Kellyanne Conway indicated Mr Trump would be results-oriented as he chooses his top aides, prepares his transition to the White House and gets ready to work with Congress.
"He'll be surrounded by people who want to get things done. Because he's a transactional guy. He's a businessman," Ms Conway said on NBC's 'Meet the Press'. "You can't just appoint novices, you have to have people who know what they're doing. But at the same time this is an administration that's going to run very differently than typical Washington."
Mr Ryan said he agreed with Mr Trump's comments in a 'Wall Street Journal' interview published on Friday that he would keep elements of President Obama's signature healthcare law, known as Obamacare.
Repealing and replacing the 2010 Affordable Care Act was another centrepiece of Mr Trump's campaign. But he told the 'Journal' that after talking to Mr Obama at the White House on Thursday he would consider retaining provisions letting parents keep adult children up to age 26 on their insurance policies and barring insurers from denying coverage to people with pre-existing medical conditions.
"We can fix what is broken in healthcare without breaking what is working in healthcare," Mr Ryan said. "Obamacare is failing. It must be replaced. We're going to do that."
Donald Trump may continue to live in his $100m penthouse in New York rather than move into the White House full-time when he becomes president.
He has told his team that he would like to spend his time in New York whenever he can, according to 'The New York Times'. During the campaign, he would often fly back late at night to his home in Trump Tower from wherever he was on the trail.
The Secret Service has already issued a strong suggestion that he should move to the White House full-time.
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Agents have described the prospect of protecting him in New York as a "security nightmare".
Mr Trump lives with his wife Melania and 10-year-old son Barron in a gilded three-floor apartment designed in the style of Louis XIV, overlooking Central Park. He has lived in Trump Tower for three decades and has often talked about how much he loves it. He may spend weekdays in the White House and weekends in New York. Barron attends the prestigious Columbia Grammar and Preparatory School in Manhattan.
Barack Obama moved in to the White House on his inauguration despite his daughters being in school in Chicago.
Oscar Pistorius has been moved at his request to a prison that is better able to accommodate disabled offenders
Oscar Pistorius has been moved at his request to a prison that is better able to accommodate disabled offenders, the South African government has said.
The Department of Correctional Services said that the former Paralympic champion was transferred from Kgosi Mampuru II prison in Pretoria to the nearby Atteridgeville Correctional Centre, which recently installed bath tubs during upgrades for disabled criminals.
It says the Atteridgeville prison houses offenders serving up to six years in prison, and has rehabilitation and development programmes for inmates.
Officials say double-amputee Pistorius's disability previously required that he be held in a Kgosi Mampuru remand centre lacking such programmes.
Pistorius is serving a six-year prison term for murdering girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp in 2013.
Prosecutors have appealed against the sentence, which they say is too lenient.
AP
The Admiral Kuznetsov carrier is now off the shore of Syria (AP)
A Russian fighter jet based on an aircraft carrier currently near Syria's shores has crashed on a training mission - but the pilot has bailed out safely, the Defence Ministry said.
The ministry said the crash of the MiG-29K fighter will not affect the operations of the Admiral Kuznetsov carrier.
"The Russian aircraft carrier group is continuing its operations in the Mediterranean in accordance with plan," it said in a statement.
"Flights of carrier-borne aircraft are continuing."
The jet's pilot was quickly rescued and suffered no injuries, the ministry added.
It said that the jet crashed a few kilometres away from the carrier due to a technical problem while on its way to land, but did not elaborate.
The carrier and escorting ships arrived in the eastern Mediterranean Sea last week. Pilots of the carrier-borne fighters have been conducting flights over Syria to survey the area.
Nato has expressed concern about the Russian carrier group's deployment, saying the move could presage an increase in the number of Russian air raids in Syria - particularly around the besieged city of Aleppo.
AP
Suicide bombers have targeted two major cities in Iraq, striking security forces in the Sunni city of Fallujah and Shiite pilgrims in the holy city of Karbala in the country's south, killing at least six people in each attack.
The bombings are an apparent attempt by the Islamic State group to strike back as government troops' advance on their stronghold in the northern city of Mosul. The Sunni militant group claimed responsibility for both bombings.
In Fallujah, the attack was carried out by twin suicide car bombers in the city centre - the first such incidents since Iraqi forces in late June declared it "fully liberated" of Islamic State militants after a month-long operation aided by US-led air strikes.
Interior Ministry spokesman Brigadier General Saad Maan said one of the Fallujah bombers killed two policemen and wounded 17 people, including nine civilians.
"They hit a security checkpoint," he said, adding that traffic had been heavy in the area and around 10 vehicles including an ambulance had been damaged. The second bomber killed four people, including two policemen.
IS claimed responsibility for the attack, posting videos online of the bombers before the attack, their faces masked and brandishing assault rifles. Fallujah was the first Iraqi city to fall to IS, in January 2014. Since IS was driven out, families have begun returning to the city, 40 miles west of Baghdad.
Earlier in the day, a suicide bombing targeted the sacred Shiite city of Karbala, killing at least six civilians in an attack also claimed by IS.
According to Brig Gen Maan, the ministry spokesman, six suicide bombers tried to sneak into Karbala from its western outskirts but security forces detected and killed five of them. The sixth attacker broke into a house in the city's Ayn al-Tamer neighbourhood, where he detonated his suicide vest, killing six people and wounding another six, Brig Gen Maan said.
The attack came as hundreds of thousands of faithful Shiites have been walking to Karbala to commemorate the 7th century death of Imam Hussein, Prophet Muhammad's grandson and an iconic Shiite martyr. The city, where Imam Hussein and his brother are buried, is located 55 miles south of Baghdad. On Sunday, pilgrims are expected to converge on the city for the climax of a 40-day mourning period, known as al-Arbaeen.
In an online statement, the Islamic State group said it targeted "polytheists... in filthy Karbala". It put the number of the suicide bombers at five, saying they clashed for hours with the security forces and set off their explosives consecutively when they ran out ammunition.
The authenticity of the statement could not be verified, but it was posted on a militant website commonly used by the extremist group.
Like other Sunni extremist groups, IS considers the Shiites heretics and has frequently targeted Shiite civilians and places of worship.
"We are walking all these long distances, we are not afraid of terrorists, we are not afraid of Daesh," said 56-year-old pilgrim Sattar Hussein, using the Arabic acronym for IS. "We are not afraid of anyone who defames Islam. And especially those who are targeting the al-Arbaeen."
Wearing a black traditional Arab dress, Mr Hussein was among hundreds of pilgrims leaving Baghdad on foot to head to Karbala under tight security measures. Some of the marchers were carrying religious flags, including some with a portrait depicting Imam Hussein, as security forces set up check points to search them.
In southern Iraq's Shiite heartland, Karbala is far from Mosul, where a massive Iraqi military operation - launched last month and backed by US-led coalition air strikes and paramilitary militias - is under way to free the city, Iraq's second-largest, from IS.
A UN spokesman said on Monday that more than 54,000 people have fled their homes as a result of the Iraqi military operation to retake Mosul from IS militants. Farhan Haq said that number represented an increase of 6,600 people since four days ago.
About three-quarters of the displaced people are being shelter in camps set up by the UN and its humanitarian partners and one-quarter are been housed in host communities, Mr Haq said.
He added that the World Food Programme has provided food assistance to more than 100,000 people fleeing the conflict, including a distribution to 25,000 people on Sunday in Gogjali, the first neighbourhood retaken inside Mosul.
On Sunday, a wave of attacks in and around Baghdad killed at least 23 people and wounded 70 others. Many of the assaults targeted Shiite pilgrims walking toward Karbala.
AP
CONCORD Veterans Day is a time to recognize and honor those who took the vow to protect and serve this country. Across the United States, veterans are honored with food, coffee, performances and gifts.
But it isnt just about recognition, its also about education. And Rocky River Elementary tied that recognition and education together when it invited veterans to come and share their experiences with students.
More than 20 veterans attended the event which was held on Thursday, Nov. 10. Ranging in age from serving in the Korean War to more modern times, the veterans were each assigned a classroom and spoke about their decision to go into the military, showed artifacts collected during their time serving and answered student questions.
The countrys future lies in the hands of the children, Commander Jim Kelly with Black-Phillips American Legion Post 433 in Midland, said. So for us to be here and to speak of history and give examples of real life experience, its positive.
The event was organized by Liz Benstead who worked with the schools student council to make it a reality. As veterans arrived, student council members presented them with a paper flower and escorted them to the classrooms where they would be speaking.
Its great for our schools and our kids to have this interaction and really a great thing for these guys and ladies to show up and give kids the opportunity to learn about some things they dont always know, Cabarrus County Schools Superintendent Dr. Chris Lowder said as he shook hands and thanked the veterans. Its good for the kids to have that interaction with the community.
Several of the classes had discussed military branches in preparation for the visit from the veterans. One kindergarten teacher, Paige Morris, was particularly excited because her father, Michael Burris, spoke to her class.
He doesnt get to talk a lot about his time in the Navy, she said. Its good for the students to get to experience a real person who has been in the service. It makes it real and is hands-on.
Burris talked to the class about his time on his ship, why he chose the Navy and the survival skills he learned. He showed them his uniform, belt, hat and dog tags.
He told the class he learned how to stay afloat by using his hat and pants and said his ship was like a city. He said there were places to buy junk food, dentists and areas for operations.
The Navy, in my opinion, is the best, he said. I started to go into the army but I didnt like to sleep in the mud or on the ground. In the Navy I got warm food, a dry bed and clean clothes, as long as my ship stayed afloat.
Another U.S. Navy veteran, Robert Kirk, gave some first-graders the chance to try on his uniform. Kirk, who served in the Navy from 1972 until 1992, said since he was speaking to a younger group he wanted to find a way to make it fun.
Kirk went over the differences of military branches and then let student Holden Capps and Bailee Medlin try on his two uniforms before teaching them how to salute.
A lot of men and women have joined the military to keep us safe, Kirk told the students. Being in the military is something to be proud of. There have been a lot of people who have been in the military and gotten killed and some of us are very fortunate to have come back home.
Tim Tereska, director of Cabarrus Countys Veterans Services who served in the U.S. Air Force from 1987 to 2008, also participated in the event. He said hopefully it would give the students a renewed interest and respect for veterans.
Its great talking to the kids because they ask questions you dont normally get from adults. And they are interested, they want to hear, Tim Tereska, director of Cabarrus Countys Veterans Society, said. A lot of them have family members that are veterans so they go back and thank them and maybe talk a little bit more with their family members about the veterans.
Many of the veterans were sent home with tokens of appreciation from the students like drawings and other thank yous.
Its interesting to learn about what they did and how they served in our country, fourth-grade student George Loveland, said.
Veteran Mike Benfield played Taps on his trumpet over the schools intercom to bring the event to a close.
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Its hard to understate how important the difference the enthusiasm gap made in this election. Bernie Sanders, seen here at a rally in Billings, Montana, in May 2016, showed how to stir passion in voters. Hillary Clinton? Not so much. Photo by Mark Trahant / Trahant Reports
#NativeVote16 Indian Country was like America only more so
By Mark TrahantTrahant Reports
This election Indian Country was like America. Perhaps only more so.
Most American Indian and Alaska Natives voted for Hillary Clinton. But that support was mild. There were not enough votes to make a difference in red states like Montana, South Dakota and North Dakota. Just enough votes to stay the course in blue states like New Mexico, Washington or Oregon. And, most important, not nearly enough votes in the swing states.
Hillary Clinton earned the most votes, 60, 839,922, to Donald J. Trumps 60,265,858. But that, of course, is not the way we elect the national leader and Trumps 290 electoral votes were more than enough to win. Whats more: The margins within those states were such that Native American voters could not have made the difference. There would have had to be a wider coalition of voters, something Barack Obama did so well, and Secretary Clinton did not.
A few examples.
If you look at a color-coded 2012 election map Indian Country pops out. There are bright blue pools of voters in deeply red states. Shannon County (now Oglala Lakota County) voted 93.4 percent for Obama. Thats Pine Ridge. Obama won 3/4s of the vote in Rolette County, North Dakota, which includes the Turtle Mountian Band of Chippewas.
Or next door in Montana, voters from the Fort Peck Reservation came out and led the county with 56.5 percent voting for Obama. But blue faded in the red states this election. Trump picked up 200 more votes than Mitt Romney in 2012, but the real number is that nearly 600 fewer voters went for Hillary Clinton compared to Barack Obama.
Same story in Oglala Lakota Country. Clinton won, and by a large margin, but with 500 fewer votes than Obama.
In Rolette County nearly 1,300 fewer votes for Clinton.
The red states did not change because of that, but its a good indication about how tepid the support for Clinton was, even in Indian Country.
This story played out in blue states, too. More than 2,000 voters disappeared in McKinley County on the Navajo Nation in New Mexico.
And, in swing states, such as Arizona, that slight difference, a few hundred people who did not vote here and there, added up into real numbers. In Apache County, where the majority of the voters are Navajo, 17,147 picked Obama four years ago. This election only 12,196 voted for Clinton.
Indian Country will make a difference in future elections. The demographic makeup of the country is changing fast and we are a part of that. Whats most stunning about this election is how little demographics mattered. I wrote in December : Sure, its even possible, that one of the Republican candidates will whip up magic and united a coalition of voters. But that would take words designed to reach consensus with the new majority of voters. And that would have been true: If enough of us had been motivated to vote.
I think its clear that Clinton took Indian Country for granted. There was no attempt to learn and execute what worked from the Bernie Sanders campaign. In June, I suggested the Clinton campaign appoint and promote public Native surrogates because there ought to be a face from Indian Country. This could have helped build enthusiasm.
And ignoring Standing Rock was a sure way to turn off Native voters. There was probably a lets get past the election conversation, although eventually Tim Kane did weigh in, but nothing changed the narrative that Clinton represented more corporate power, not less. Supporting Standing Rock would have been the right call morally. But I can see how the politics was more complicated because union voices (and donors) wanted the pipeline to proceed.
Yet that might be the essence of Hillary Clinton and why she lost. Her campaign was a package of powerful interests trying to market itself as the voice of ordinary people. Indian Countrys answer was, yeah, whatever. Meh.
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Upping the ante when it comes to travel, Australian Manny Marshall, 42, hitchhiked and couch-surfed the entire 8000-km distance from Edinburgh to Delhi - all thanks to free beer.
In the eight-week journey, Marshall, who's a travel veteran with 15 years of travel experience, ended up handing out 120 cans of Innis & Gunn craft beer! His blog, rawsafari.com, has a detailed account of his entire journey.
rawsafari.com
This unique challenge was the brainchild of Innis & Gunn, a brewing company in Edinburgh, Scotland, that wanted to retrace the journey of Indian Pale Ales as they travelled the miles from Scotland (and were eventually delivered) to India during the 18th and 19th century.
rawsafari.com
The only catch: to complete the original route via road.
rawsafari.com
From convicts, to high court judges, and a mother with kids, Marshall managed to hitch a ride with many interesting people while traversing France, Austria, Germany, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria and Greece. He was later flown to India by Innis & Gunn to complete the remaining leg of the journey.
rawsafari.com
'I've been hitchhiking for more than ten years and I kind of expect to meet amazing people all the time,' he said to Dailymail in an interview.
rawsafari.com
After completing the ride, Marshall would hand over free beers as a 'thank you' and this left some drivers "a bit bemused, but quite happy about it. I think they thought I was some sort of nut but I managed to explain I am Australian, and that seemed to resolve the matter for them," he explained.
rawsafari.com
For someone who's travelled the world for many years now, Marshall called this his 'biggest challenge' yet.
(H/t: Dailymail)
1. On Saturday at the annual Governors Awards, Jackie Chan finally received his gold statuette, an honorary Oscar for his decades of work in film.
BCCL
"After 56 years in the film industry, making more than 200 films, after so many bones, finally," the actor told the media after winning his trophy.
2. Twinkle Khanna appeared on Karan Johar's chat show Koffee with Karan for the first time ever and it turned out to be a laughter riot.
Star World
Twinkle and Akshay were at their wittiest best on the show. Recalling the marriage test that Akshay had to go through, Twinkle shared, "The primary reason you get married is to have children. You are introducing this genetic strain into your family line. I wanted to know what are the diseases running in his family, at what age did uncles in his family, at what age did uncles in his family lose their hair, what did Kanchan Chachi die of?"
3. Just before the release of its official trailer, Shah Rukh Khan's Raees lands up in minor trouble
Twitter
A DNA report has quoted an unknown source saying, When Shah Rukh realised his meetings with Latif were being given political overtones, he decided to keep a distance. When Mustak invited Shah Rukh again, the actor didnt respond. This incensed Mustak, who felt affronted by the stars snub and decided to dissociate from the project.
While Hooda took to Twitter to express his opinions, Ajay Devgn told the media, "Even my film is suffering because of this but in front of nation's interest, I find this inconvenience trivial. I want to request people to not panic; there is time until December 30+ . People who're not in desperate need for money can wait a bit. Whenever a change takes place, common man faces the problem; people from my office are standing in queues and willing to face problems for better future."
5. Rishi Kapoor slams Arvind Kejriwal for his views against Modi's demonetisation policy
Arvind Kejriwal has been trying all he can to criticise and express his displeasure on PM Modi's policy but this hasn't gone down well at all with actor Rishi Kapoor. Rishi Kapoor took to Twitter to write, "Is this guy for real? Does he always talk like this? Suna tha, aaj tajurba ho gaya"
Arvind Kejriwal is leaving no stone unturned in expressing his displeasure at PM Modi's demonetisation policy. Even though he's remained silent on the decision, his social media activities reveal otherwise.
Talking about PM Modi's speech, Kejriwal said,
"There is still time, take back this decision before the law and order situation further deteriorates. PM Modi has mocked them and must apologise. I have received a lot of calls, there is a sense of panic among people after PM's speech in Goa."
However, actor Rishi Kapoor is pissed at Kejriwal. After Kejriwal said that PM Modi should roll back the demonetisation policy, Rishi Kapoor could not take it. He slammed Kejriwal, and tweeted,
Very little is known about dark matter, the big black mystery that makes up 27% of the universe. Any information discovered on dark matter is a giant leap.
Now, German and Hungarian scientists have made headway and found some information on a dark matter particle that has been proposed called the axion.
Representational image/Reuters
There is only indirect proof towards dark matter because gravitational pull is not enough to explain the rapid movement of galaxies.
Yes, galaxies do move and rotate through space because the universe is expanding. The scientists have been able to calculate the estimated mass of the axion at between 50 and 100 electron volts.
And according to this theory, there should exist ten million of such particles for every cubic centimetre of the universe.
Scientists also say axion occur in clumps so there should be nearly a trillion axions per cubic centimetre in our galaxy, Milky Way.
This is a huge step not only for scientists and physicists but also for humans because dark matter constitutes of such a large part of the universe yet so little are known about it.
Researcher Dr Andreas Ringwald, of the largest accelerator centre in Germany DESY said, "Dark matter is an invisible form of matter which until now has only revealed itself through its gravitational effects. What it consists of remains a complete mystery."
Here are some facts we already know about dark matter:
1. "Dark doesnt only mean we cant see it
Representational image/NASA blue shift - Flickr
When scientists are talking about dark matter, they actually mean invisible matter that neither absorbs, neither emits nor reflects light.
2. Its abnormal
Dark matter does not interact with electromagnetic forces, which is one of the way interacting forces in nature, like normal matter. Researchers have only been able to postulate the existence of dark matter from the interaction of gravity on visible matter.
3. Zwicky first discovered it in 1933
Representational image/Reuters
Contrary to popular belief, Vera Rubin wasnt the first one to discover dark matter but it was, in fact, Swiss astronomer Fritz Zwicky who proposed the idea and coined the term in 1933. He stated galaxies of the Coma cluster move way too quickly to remain connected by gravity.
4. Gives structure to the universe
Representational image/Flickr
Dark matter doesnt really interact with itself or others around it so its the first type of matter to settle down when the universe expands and the first to form structures through its own gravitational pull. Earlier this year it was also proved that the internal structure of a galaxys cluster is linked to its dark matter.
5. No direct evidence
Scientists and physicist have been for decades been studying dark matter but all we know so far is through inference from gravitational pull. But despite the lack of direct experimental evidence, scientists have no doubt over the existence of dark matter.
Space exploration is so vital to humankind - discovering more and more information on how the universe was formed, decoding its mysteries are only going to advance human kind.
What could be termed as a historical event, 8 Indian Air Force fighter jets will touch down on Agra-Lucknow expressway on its grand opening on November 21, the eve of Mulayam Singh Yadav's 78th birthday.
TOI
UP expressways industrial development authority CEO Navneet Sehgal confirmed this to TOI. He said, "All arrangements have been made to conduct the grand inauguration. A squadron of eight fighter jets will land and take off from the newly constructed expressway."
A dream project of UP CM Akhilesh Yadav, the 302-km expressway, which has been completed in a record time of 22 months and has cost Rs 13,200 crore, will get operational by December.
On Saturday, several officials including Sehgal and Air Vice Marshal Rajesh Issar, senior officer administration of Central Air Command inspected the expressway stretch in Bangarmau of Unnao district, for the event.
TOI
Several attempts were made to contact IAF officials to get more details about the event, but none responded.
Though IAF official source on anonymity said, "To conduct safe landings of eight fighter jets, necessary safety requirements such as bird clearance, safety services, rescue vehicles and temporary air traffic control need to be set up."
According to UPEIDA source, "A dedicated 2 km stretch has been built for war-like emergencies on the expressway, though we have also ensured that eco-system on the stretch is not disturbed."
Last year in the month of May, in a first for military aviation in the country, IAF successfully landed a French Dassault Mirage-2000 fighter jet on the Yamuna Expressway near Raya village, Mathura, as a part of elaborate trials to see how many other highways can be used for war-like emergencies.
PTI
At present, countries such as Germany, Poland, Sweden, South Korea, Taiwan, Finland, Switzerland, Poland, Singapore, Czechoslovakia and Pakistan have dedicated stretches on their expressways and highways for aeroplanes to land and take off in the case of an emergency.
Eleven year-old city girl Anvita Prashant Telang recently won the national level 'Doodle 4 Google' contest for her doodle titled 'Live in the present'.
Anvita had submitted her doodle based on this year's theme 'If I could teach anyone anything, it would be'. The doodle would be featured on the home page of Google India on November 14 to celebrate Children's Day. A student of Vibgyor High School in Balewadi, Anvita loves to draw.
TOI
Her mother Aparna Telang said, "Although Anvita is a regular 11-year-old, sometimes her answers are so philosophical that they flummox me. Sometimes I tell her what is happening in my office and her replies have been very mature and different from what you would expect from someone as young as her."
Anvita thinks that the world is going too fast and it needs to stop to enjoy the small and good things in nature and life. "That is what I have tried to show in my doodle. I try to live in the present and not worry too much about anything. That keeps me happy," she said.
india.com
An official statement from Google said, "Her creativity and vision towards developing 'a better world and healthy lifestyle' is well reflected through her colourful doodle where she has showcased how everyone should 'enjoy every moment' and appreciate the simple things around us and live stress-free."
We often find pictures, pamphlets, posts etc seeking information about missing children. But now, a Qingdao-based food company in collaboration with Baobeihuijia.com, an online database to locate missing children, has come up with an innovative idea to locate these kids.
Facebook
Together, they have launched mineral water bottles with pictures of missing children. The bottles also include details of these kids and their parents contact details, CCTV News reported.
And then theres this heart-wrenching slogan Baby, come home. There are around 500,000 bottles in circulation currently, featuring six missing children, and these bottles will be sold in supermarkets, airports and train stations in a bid to locate them.
Facebook
The initiative is akin to an attempt from 1979 when a bereaved father of six-year-old boy in New York City printed his sons photo and information on milk cartons and distributed to neighbors, hoping he could be found. However, after 20 years, the boy was declared legally dead, the CCTV News report said.
Around 200,000 children are reported missing in China every year, according to China National Radios website.
Facebook
And when a child goes missing, they are often declared legally dead by authorities. Often trafficked, or used for human organ harvesting, these missing children seldom return home.
However, this noble initiative is not devoid of challenges. For example, one of the children featured in the bottle was kidnapped in 2003. So, it is unlikely that people would recognize him now the child would be 18 years old, the CCTV News report also said.
The report also cites proactive measures undertaken by Chinese authorities to locate missing children. For instance, in 2009, China set up the worlds first DNA database to find missing kids. By the end of 2015, over 4,000 missing children had been reunited with their families through this database.
In a bid to help the common man, Canara Bank in Bengaluru rolled out its mobile ATM so that people could withdraw new currency notes without forming endless queues outside banks.
On Sunday evening, the blue bus, which helped around 800 customers withdraw Rs. 8 lakh worth of cash, was seen at MG Road!
Deccan Herald
"I was taking a stroll in the evening on MG Road and found that most of the ATMs were running out of cash. So, I got our mobile ATM, which serves Bengaluru Rural customers, pressed into service," Mr. M M Chiniwar, Canara Bank General Manager (Circle Office), told Deccan Herald.
The bus that arrived at 5.30 pm, eased people's anxieties, as they could finally skip standing outside a bank to withdraw cash.
Picssr/RAMACHANDRAN PALANIRAMU
Mr. Chiniwar also said that by Tuesday or Wednesday, sufficient cash will reach banks and ATMs which will help reduce the insane rush of people we are seeing every day.
...and we still have another 50 days for things to stabilise!
There have been reports of 16 deaths across the country owing to the impact of the demonetisation. 15 of the reports came in the first four days alone and with the latest report today, the toll stands at 16 in 5 days.
No amount of "legal tenders" can bring these people back.
BCCL
The heart-wrenching reports have been coming in from across the country. The first death was that of a new-born child who was refused admission to a Mumbai hospital as parents did not have "legal tender". Another 18-month-old died in Vizag as parents did not have the new currency to purchase medicines that could have saved him. In both cases, the children were at private hospitals and only government hospitals have been instructed to accept the old currency.
In Mainpuri, doctors refused to continue the treatment of a one-year-old when his parents ran out of Rs 100 notes. He was taken home and he died soon after. It was an ambulance that refused to take a newborn to the hospital as the father only had the old Rs 500 or Rs 1,000 bank notes.
Which "larger good" can compensate for these lives?
AFP
Apart from people not being treated or being turned away from hospitals, there have been many reports of people 'shocked' into death. A washerwoman from Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh deposited the only savings of Rs 2,000 in the bank and when it was declared "illegal tender" she died of the shock. A 55-year-old homemaker in Telangana thought that her life's savings of Rs 54 lakh had been rendered useless. She committed suicide.
A 45-year-old father of the bride died of a massive heart attack when he realised that his daughter's in-laws would not accept the old currency notes in dowry. A businessman in Faizabad of Uttar Pradesh suffered a heart attack while hearing the Prime Minister's speech and died before doctors could help him. A 47-year-old farmer had a heart attack waiting to exchange old currency notes in Tarapur in Gujarat.
AFP
There are also reports of people dying of the stress of standing in long queues. A 45-year-old man fell from the second floor while filling his deposit slip for Rs 5 lakh and died.
In Howrah, West Bengal, a man tense over demonetisation murdered his wife because she returned empty handed from the ATM. He felt she should have waited longer in the queue. A 72-year-old in Mumbai, a 96-year-old in Karnataka, a 69-year-old in Madhya Pradesh and a 75-year-old in Kerala, all died while waiting in the queue at the bank in the past five days!
Not just this, a cashier at the State Bank of India at Bhopal died of a heart attack at work. He simply could not cope with the extra hours and long queues.
The Prime Minister has expressed his sadness at the incidents and stated: "I feel the pain that the people of India are feeling."
A Kargil war veteran who now works as a security guard in Kanpur has alleged that he was beaten up and humiliated by a Samajwadi Party leader's men upon the politician's orders - as well by the police - on Tuesday
Facebook
His 'crime'? He didn't salute the SP leader when he was asked to do so.
Ganesh Kumar Shukla, a non-commissioned officer of the Army's Mahar regiment who served the nation for 22 years, has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav to help him fight this injustice. He has said that he will immolate himself if he doesn't get justice.
"Main ye apmaan sehen nahi kar paaunga. Meri ladne me madad kariye (I won't be able to bear this insult. Please help me in this fight)," he said.
In his statement, Shukla says he told the SP politician - a certain CK Tripathi - that he would only salute the tri-colour or people mandated by the President of India. The SP leader had come to the Reliance Digital store where Shukla works as a security guard.
eastcoastdaily.in
The SP man's alleged response was to tell his men, "Ye bohot bolta hai, isko maaro (this guy speaks too much, beat him up). He then called the "Civil Lines" police - who not only beat Shukla without conducting an investigation but also placed their shoes on his face and then filed a FIR against him, Shukla said.
Colonel Anil Kaul of the Mahar regiment - the regiment Shukla is from - spoke about the change he sees in the way Army officers are treated in India.
"We've reached a stage, where frankly - and this is my personal opinion - over the last 70 years, the Armed Forces have been brought down from a high pedestal to... subservience..almost to a level of unskilled labour," Col. Kaul said.
Col. Kaul, a war veteran who is a recipient of the Vir Chakra, recalled how police superintendents used to meet Army captains at home. He lamented that this had now changed. In fact, army men are bring equated "at a level below the police," and some want to make them feel as though they were from "a lower stratum of society," he said.
Col. Kaul said disrespect was being "deliberately thrown around at the Armed Forces," despite everything that they did for the country. He attributed the "mismatch" in the kind of respect that policemen and soldiers get now, to envy for the Armed Forces
"We're not asking for the moon. Just give us our izzat," he said.
Nishad Husain Jafri, a key maker from Worli, spent the entire Sunday running from one bank to another. However, unlike the rest of the city that's locked in a mad scramble for cash, Jafri was trying to return a Rs 2,000 note he had inadvertently damaged.In urgent need of cash after his wife was diagnosed with lumps in the breast in his hometown Muzaffarnagar in Uttar Pradesh, Jafri stood in the queue for more than eight hours on Saturday to exchange scrapped currency notes for new notes worth Rs 4,000.
mumbaimirror
"The banks are not exchanging notes worth more than Rs 2,000 and my wife urgently needs Rs 5,000 for treatment. I spent close to eight hours exchanging old notes for new ones at the IDBI Bank and the Indian Overseas Bank's Worli branches. In my anxiety to deposit the money in her account as soon as possible, I ended up damaging the Rs 2,000 note," he said.
That was only the beginning of his ordeal. "I went back to both the branches and was told that there are no guidelines on what to do with damaged Rs 2,000 notes," he said. A visit to post offices also generated a similar response. "I was told that at this stage, no bank or post office will take back damaged notes. They told me to approach the Reserve Bank of India," he said.
egurupedia.com
Jafri, who has a shop near Doordarshan Junction in Worli, said business has been "exceptionally bad" since Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes were scrapped on Wednesday. "People are not even spending on essentials, do you think they'll get new keys made?" he asked. "I just had Rs 4,000 and a few hundreds. With one note no longer valid, I don't know how I will pay for my wife's treatment," he said.
Like several common people who have questioned the implementation of the new currency system, Jafri said it's the poor who are the only ones suffering. "An official at one of the banks told me there is a massive struggle for cash, and replacements are out of question. I have been trapped in such an unfortunate situation and I don't know what to do," he said.
BCCL
Massive queues were witnessed on Sunday outside banks across the city, even as ATMs ran dry in a couple of hours. Longer queues were seen outside public sector banks where a sizeable number of account holders are retired persons and senior citizens.
The Centre, in a late night move on Sunday, asked the banks to raise daily exchange limit to Rs 4,500 from existing Rs 4,000, raised the ATM cash withdrawal limit to Rs 2,500 from Rs 2,000 per day; weekly withdrawal limit from Rs 20,000 to Rs 24,000, and removed the daily withdrawal cap of Rs 10,000 from bank counters.
Venkatramam Krishnamoorthy, an Indian social worker in Dubai, just set a Guinness World Record in collecting stationery for charity.
Krishnamoorthy amassed 10,975 kg worth of items in a span of just 24 hours by receiving them from corporates, schools, and individuals in a bid to help one lakh refugee children all around the world.
ndtv
The donations that he received include a massive number of 3 lakh pencils, 50,000 notebooks, and 2,000 school bags along with crayons, scissors, and sharpeners. Nearly 400 volunteers came together to make this mission a success at Dubai's Al Diyafah School.
Now the Emirates Red Crescent organisation will deliver these to children camped in refugee holdings around the world, reports NDTV.
Reuters
Krishnamoorthy's record surpassed the previous one of 4,571 kg that was set in Saudi Arabia in 2015.
57-year-old Krishnamoorthy said, "Joyful giving is the motto of this mission. It's all about bringing smiles on the faces of needy children around the world."
Krishnamoorthy, who's a chartered accountant, is a native of Tirunelvelli in Tamil Nadu. He has been a resident of Dubai since 1992 where his non-profit project of 'education4all' collects used books and toys and supplies them to school libraries in India and African countries.
Ignoring the ban on ivory trade in India, Uttar Pradesh Khadi and Village Industries Board is inviting people to buy items made from elephant tusks at the ongoing Khadi Mahotsav here.
(Also read: Elephants On The Path To Extinction As India Sees A Rise In Illegal Ivory Poaching)
Under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), to which India is a signatory, trading in ivory is banned in order to send a strong message against poaching of tuskers.
KCET
UP Khadi Board's Deputy CEO A K Shukla announced that a lot of rural artisans would sell their products during the festival, which will also include a variety of items made from elephant tusks. The fortnight-long event, that ends on November 24, will bring many such items to a common platform, from where people can buy them.
During the 1980s and 90s, India was a thriving market for the poaching of tuskers, especially in the southern states of Kerela and Tamil Nadu. In these states, as many as 2,000 pachyderms were killed in the last two decades.
In fact, last year also saw an overwhelming increase in the number of poaching cases with 30 tuskers having been killed to cater to the demand for ivory.
newsIndia
India is estimated to have about 30,000-35,000 elephants, although not all male elephants in Karnataka have tusks. However, the state is estimated to have the largest quantity of ivory in India, followed by Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Odisha.
(Also read: World's Nations Agree To Put An End To Ivory Trade That Kills One Elephant Every 15 Minutes)
India has 30 tonnes of ivory, as per a rough estimate. The opinion is divided on burning down the stockpile like in Kenya, which recently set on fire over a hundred tonnes of it, in the largest ever pile of ivory set alight anywhere in the world.
The same was done as a demonstration against illegal ivory trade and poaching that claimed 30,000 elephants every year.
In retrospect, experts are divided over the proposition of India following the African mode, suggesting that part of the stock should be used for scientific research work and DNA barcoding by institutions. However, wildlife conservationists say it is a good idea to destroy it as ivory has no use apart from ornamental purposes.
India loves Israel; there is not even an iota of doubt about it. Arguably, there were several pretensions and preventions earlier, but now India and Israel are out in open to change their relationship status from its complicated to engaged, and perhaps for some, even married.
times of Israel
With the arrival of Israeli President Reuven Rivlin at Mumbai airport for a six-day visit, both Tel Aviv and Delhi will send a strong message across the world about their bilateral relations. This, for the advocates of Indo-Israeli relations, is happening quite slowly, though. While they wish Godspeed to both the states, India, on its part, has evolved its Israeli policy, gradually calculating all the factors and their implications.
Its been almost 25 years since India began its diplomatic relations with Israel after recognising it in 1950 two years after its creation. Now, when the two states seem closer than ever before and their leaders are meeting and reciprocating state visits, the way only takes them forward to strengthen the ties.
AFP
Israel has always looked up to India, in order to garner support at the international forums, where it seeks support to legitimise its policies in the occupied Palestinian territories. India, however, has not been able to oblige Israel on all occasions, but voices its support for Israels fight against terrorism, allegedly originating from the neighbouring states. India, so far, has used the abstinence card whenever it comes to dealing with the issues related to Israel.
Things seem to be changing now. Earlier, the Indian leaders would try to keep the relationship with Israel as hidden as possible. The extent of diplomatic relations, economic pacts, defence ties and military deals with Israel were done in concealed manner. Even the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led NDA government in the late 1990s would not venture out to speak openly about Indo-Israel relations, although India had sought Israeli help (and received it) during Kargil War in 1999.
AFP
It also seems a futile exercise to review history and see who said what. The Indian leadership, particularly under the BJP-led (National Democratic alliance) government has been consistent with its admiration for Israel. The two states are imagining a sustainable partnership and in fact working hard to achieve it, if it's not there already. And with growing dependence, any succeeding government will find it difficult to reverse the process.
What Lies Ahead?
Indian and Israel see each other as important strategic partners; this is the result of Indias changed foreign policy orientation after the Cold War and its economic liberalisation. For India, a struggling economy in 1992, there were some other factors that made it possible to go forward with its relationship with Israel during the Congress government led by P V Narasimha Rao.
AFP
Since 1992, Israeli leaders and state representatives have visited India almost two dozen times, while a similar number of visits have been made by their Indian counterparts. Although no Indian Prime Minister has visited Israel so far (there are assumption that PM Modi will be the first to do so), the visit made by President Pranab Mukherjee, in 2015, reflects a robust relationship between the two states.
There is a general perception across the board that when it comes to India and Israel its only about war, intelligence and military aid. However, over the years, the two states have taken their cooperation to different levels. India and Israel cooperate with each other in research and development, technology, education, and of course tourism. Defence personnel and arms dealers are not the only ones who travel between the two countries, a high (and increasing) number of students, senior academics and researchers from both the countries visit various universities across India and Israel. And this is expected to go even further in the coming years.
Times of Israel
India, Israel and International Community
India has always had an engaging foreign policy vis-a-vis, West Asia. India has maintained good relations with all the Gulf States and has successfully made them understand its need to keep Israel on board. The theory that India may lose its Arab buddies by hanging out with Israel has remained unsubstantiated for years.
Indias foreign policy makers have had an independent policy when it comes to balancing relations with the Arab States and Israel and even Iran. There is no doubt that off-late India apparently has moved closer to Israel, however, it has not been done at the cost of its relations with the Arab States.
AFP
Question of Palestine
When it comes to Indo-Israel relations, it is difficult to ignore the question of Palestine. Indias solidarity with the Palestinian people is not new. It began with Gandhi and continues with the youngsters on Indian streets showing solidarity with the Palestinian people. As far as Indias foreign policy is concerned, India has made it clear that India wants a separate Palestinian state.
Generally, a shallow assessment of the situation blames Indias Muslims for being the factors hampering India's relations with Israel because of their support for the Palestinian people. However, this assumption falls flat, when the public opinion from various sections of the Indian society comes in supports of the Palestinian cause.
The leaders in Israel as well as Palestine know Indias position and have never forced India to shun any of its friends. India, on its part, has shown that it can deal with the commitments and aspirations of its Israeli and Palestinian friends at the same time.
Times of Israel
Its all out in open
Several books, policy papers and research articles focussing on various aspects of Indo-Israel relations have been written in recent years. They all show is that India and Israel are developing bilateral relations by leaps and bounds. Therefore, any effort to keep the things secreted, while blaming a particular community or a few countries for hampering the process is not a smart policy. India should openly assert its relations with Israel.
It's not even been a week since Donald Trump was elected President of the United States and we're already seeing cases of harassment, racial discrimination, molestation and what not. Leave aside the ill-treatment that was already thriving in many parts of the United States, but the constant harassment has unquestionably aggravated since Trump came into power.
(Also read: Day One In Trump's America, Indians Harassed And Racially Attacked In Broad Daylight)
Deep down we all knew what could happen to our friends and relatives in the United States if Trump won. So here it is.
A 24-year-old Muslim teacher in Georgia received a note which said that her headscarf "isn't allowed anymore."
Mairah Teli, who teaches language arts at Dacula High, says that she believes the note comes as a reaction to Trump's election.
Why dont you tie it around your neck and hang yourself with it..., the note said, signed "America!"
I feel children feel safe making comments that are racist or sexist because of him," she told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
The moment she received the note, she informed the administration and fellow teachers, and all have been extremely supportive of her ever since. She further clarifies that the institute is doing everything they can to find the person behind it. She suspects it comes from a student.
"We are living in a time when there is a lot of disagreement, a lot of conflicts. It's important that we teach them how to disagree."
Last week, we had several immigrants around different parts of the country sharing their experiences.
Donald Trump's America. A close friend sent this to me. pic.twitter.com/PzNV1MOujM Saira Khan (@sairakh) November 10, 2016
@ShaunKing day one of Donald trump at wake forest university. pic.twitter.com/RlhVfGI9Wg madison (@maddieemz) November 10, 2016
Cars were painted with messages like go back, while the rest were attacked in broad daylight.
Here's hoping love and peace prevail.
It seems that the 'Love Trumps Hate' fans have revealed their dark side, fangs and all. Violent protests sparked off across America by peaceful, tolerant, loving liberals who were misled into believing Hillary Clinton was the de-facto winner this US election.
"Rape Melania" is trending. Liberals are really outdoing their own disgusting behavior. #SundayMorning #Trump pic.twitter.com/PA1q6QV4sa WE DID IT (@BobbyDellBSC) November 13, 2016
American Twitter users saw "Rape Melania" in their trending-topics, often with images of a protester holding a sign with the phrase at a demonstration in Washington DC.
I just saw that Rape Melania is trending
This week, many tweets talked about killing Trump
More reminders that Love Trumps Hate is a lie Cameron Gray (@Cameron_Gray) November 13, 2016
The protest was being held outside Trump's new hotel in Washington, and has surprisingly generated no mainstream condemnation from Trump critics - at least not at par with the condemnation Trump's run for President generated.
Surprisingly, Twitter, which is known to censor Trending topics on its own discretion and even ban users based on policies, allowed the trend to sustain. However, Twitter explained that the trend was to critique the phrase, not support it. However, a sampling of tweets seemed to speak otherwise.
"So who's going to assassinate Trump at his inauguration?" one Twitter user asked.
"I just pray that the first n***a who tries to assassinate Donald Trump don't miss"
There were also calls to assassinate Vice President-elect Mike Pence.
"If trump wins pls dont assassinate him without getting mike pence first because his a** is f***ing crazy," a user tweeted.
Police have deployed less lethal munitions such as OC spray and vapor (pepper spray), rubber ball distraction devices, rubber baton rounds. Portland Police (@PortlandPolice) November 11, 2016
A Secret Service source told the Daily Mail that they had witnessed a spike in death threats since Trump's successful election. They were monitoring social media, and 'every threat was taken seriously'. The streets of Oakland, California, saw attacks on an office block with graffiti vandalism with 'f*** Trump' and 'kill Trump'. These were then set on fire.
Protests in Portland, Oregon blew up into a riot as people threw bottles and other projectiles at police officers.
19 people arrested so far this evening due to criminal behavior during protest. Portland Police (@PortlandPolice) November 13, 2016
A protest in Indianapolis also grew violent after protesters clashed with police.
In an ironic turn of events, Turkish President Erdogan has issued a travel warning to its citizens planning on travelling to the US because of the wave of anti-Trump protests taking place across the country.
Reuters
In a statement published on the foreign ministry's website said, "Turkish citizens should stay away from demonstrations in US cities, take necessary security measures at their homes and work, and inform security officials immediately in possible racist abuse or attacks. It also said that the anti-Trump protests "occasionally featured acts of crime and violence and based on demonstrators social media posts, its clear the demonstrations will likely continue for some time".
Reuters
This is ironic because in October America issued a travel warning to its people about travelling to Turkey citing blasts and coup as the main reasons to not visits. It also ordered family members of those working at the consulate in Istanbul to leave the country after threats to US citizens. At the time, Turkey's foreign minister came out and said America's warning against travelling to Turkey is wrong.
Reuters
He said, "Istanbul or Ankara is not more unsafe than any US state. On the day that the Americans announced this security measure, 12 people were killed in the city of Chicago alone".
30-year-old Yu Xu, who was the first woman to fly China's J-10 fighter, was killed during an aerobatics exercise. She was one of the first 16 Chinese women pilots qualified to fly fighter jets.
The pilot on duty reported that Xu was a member of the Chinese air force's "August 1st" aerobatics display team and was ejected from her aircraft during a training session.
twitter
The event was held in the northern province of Hebei on the weekend, as reported by a local newspaper.
After ejection, she hit the wing of another jet and was killed. Another male co-pilot who was with her during the training landed safely and survived.
#LATEST: Yu Xu, #China's 1st female J-10 fighter pilot, died from hitting the wing of another jet after ejecting during training drill pic.twitter.com/UUkITnq6QC People's Daily,China (@PDChina) November 13, 2016
Thoughts with the family of Chinas 1st female pilot of J-10 fighter jet, Yu Xu fatally injured in a crash in Hebei province. Rest in peace! pic.twitter.com/DGWnrWtUrF Markhor (@iFighterPilot) November 13, 2016
@PDChina
What a national loss for China. Please accept our sincere condolences. (@Wa7id_Sakit) November 13, 2016
"As one of only four female pilots in the country capable of flying domestically made fighter jets, her death comes as a tremendous loss to the Chinese air force," the Global Times newspaper said.
Xu joined the People's Liberation Army in 2005 and has been a performer since. After her graduation from the academy, she was one of the 16 female pilots to be selected to fly fighter jets.
In July, she became the first woman to fly a J-10.
newsvala
Her fans dubbed her the "golden peafowl".
Xu was an archetype for many women in her country, where traditional values overpower personal achievements.
She was a flight squadron leader and she aspired to become an astronaut one day.
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The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has stated that it would embark on a week warning strike over a failure by the Federal Government to implement the 2009 Agreement and 2013 MoU.
The National President of the union, Prof. Biodun Ogunyemi, made this known on Monday during a press conference at the University of Abuja.
Ogunyemi said following a nation-wide consultation with members, the National Executive Council (NEC) of ASUU resolved to embark on a one-week warning strike from Wednesday Nov.16.
He said: Many aspects of the 2013 MoU and the 2009 Agreement with the Federal Government have either been unimplemented or despairingly handled.
The agreements are: Payments of staff entitlements since December 2015, funding of universities for revitalisation, pension, TSA and university autonomy and renegotiation of 2009 Agreement.
Failure by the Federal Government to implement this agreement has put ASUU leadership in severe difficulty, responding to inquiries from members of the union about the state of our agreement.
Ogunyemi said there shall be no teaching, examination nor attendance at statutory meetings during the warning strike.
The ASUU president called on all education-loving Nigerians to persuade the Nigerian government to address the demands of the union, stating that the allocation to education had dropped.
With the release of the 2016 Annual Budget, our union wondered aloud why allocation to education dropped from 11 per cent in 2015 to eight per cent in 2016.
With the introduction of TSA, the federal universities find it extremely difficult to discharge their core responsibilities of teaching, research and community services.
We tried to correct the erroneous impression in government circles that the capital and research grants to universities were being handled by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), he said.
A British man has begun his challenge to earn a world-record by swimming across the Atlantic Ocean.
Ben Hooper, after several delays, has taken the plunge as he tries to make his way from the west coast of Africa to South America.
The 38-year-old sets off on a five-month journey from Senegal to Brazil that will see him strive to swim a total of 1,900 miles for up to 10 hours a day.
BBC reports that his official online tracker shows he has entered the sea just off Dakar in Senegal.
The former policeman tugged on his goggles and said goodbye to loved ones and supporters on the beach of a hotel in Hann Bay, in the east of Dakar as he began his journey.
To the whole world thank you very much for your support, he said, before striding into the waves at the start of the record-breaking attempt, expected to take nearly five months.
He began the feat at the start of November but delayed his departure due to a problem with the support vessel. He postponed it again several times until actually setting off on Sunday.
He has been preparing for over three years for the immense journey that will see him swim up to 10 hours a day across the Atlantic. It has been a long time coming, he said.
The Briton will rack up 1,635 nautical miles, equal to nearly 1,900 land miles (3,000km) over the course of the journey, while taking in up to 12,000 calories a day. He will don a wetsuit specially designed to make him invisible to sharks.
Hoopers journey will be observed by a Guinness World Records representative who will join a crew of 10 supporting the swimmer.
His crossing will be filmed and can be tracked on his Swim the Big Blue website. Hooper has a 1m fundraising target.
The Sokoto State Committee on the Implementation of State of Emergency in Education, has discovered 200 sets of furniture locked up at a school where students sit on bare floor for lessons.
A statement issued by Imam Imam, spokesman to Governor Aminu Tambuwal, said the discovery was made during an assessment visit to Hafsat Ahmadu Bello Memorial Secondary School, Sokoto.
It said: Only a few classes in the school have enough seats to accommodate them.
For long, they have to put up with taking lectures while seated on bare floor.
Most use prayer mats to protect their whole tops from the floors dust, while others come to classes with extra wrappers to spray on floor as they sit.
While they have to put up with the most uncomfortable situation to take lectures daily, a few blocks away, 200 sets of classroom furniture were locked away, unattended to, and left to rot away.
It said that, the suffering of the students came to an end last week when the committee went to assess facilities and make recommendations to remedy identified problems.
The statement added that the team leader, Shadi Sabeh, immediately ordered that the furniture be arranged in the class rooms, and admonished the school management to always prioritize the need of the students.
It said that school managers must, henceforth, key into the new vision of government for better schools, so as not to sabotage its efforts.
Donald Trump is the President-elect of the United States, and he and President Obama took the first step toward his inauguration with a meeting at the White House on Thursday. But amid questions about nuclear codes and the transfer of power, heres a lighter one: What happens to Obamas @POTUS Twitter account when hes no longer President?
The White House had actually released a digital transition plan last month to lay out what will happen. When Trump is inaugurated, the @POTUS Twitter account will be handed over to him with its nearly 12 million followers, but without any tweets on its timeline. All of Obamas tweets will be preserved in the National Archives and Records Administration. Additionally, all his @POTUS tweets will be transferred to a new handle, @POTUS44.
Obama was the first president to use Twitter. He also has his @BarackObama account, which is run by his political operation and will remain in his control. Presumably Trump will also still have the @realDonaldTrump twitter account he used so effectively during his campaign.
But when Trump is sworn in as President on Jan. 20, there will be a peaceful transition of social media power.
Culled: Time
The Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party, Senator Walid Jibrin, said on Sunday that changing the name of the party would be a disaster for the countrys political development.
He declared that posterity would not forgive any member of the party plotting to destroy the PDP and dumping it to form another party.
Jibrin dismissed the rumour that some members of the main opposition party were planning to form another party.
The BoT chairman, who spoke at a press conference in Kaduna, said members were working assiduously to reposition the PDP to reclaim power from the APC, stating that posterity would not forgive any member, who wanted to kill the party to satisfy personal interest.
He dissociated himself from any plan to dump the former ruling party.
In a report last week, the Senator Ali Modu Sheriff faction of the PDP had alleged that the Senator Ahmed Makarfis group was planning to woo some agrieved senators and chieftains of the All Progressives Congress to team up with the group to form another party.
The PUNCH also reported that the Sheriff faction equally alleged that Makarfis group was plotting to kill the PDP, dump it and form another party.
But Jibrin claimed that every organ of the party was working to strengthen the party to enable it to play its role as an effective opposition party in the country.
Jibrin added, I wish to say authoritatively that there is no plan to dump the PDP as it was never discussed or any discussion taken by any organ of the party.
If we do that, posterity will not forgive us because the PDP is already a household name, dearly loved by every household in Nigeria. Posterity will judge any one with the ambition to kill the PDP; for his ambition is quite contrary to the hard work of our founding fathers and mothers, who worked so hard to produce the brand PDP.
Changing its name and brand will be a disaster for Nigerias political development, especially when we cast our mind back to the hard work and foresight of our founding fathers and mothers, who came up with the brand name, PDP, which is fully accepted and cherished by Nigerians.
On the November 26 governorship poll in Ondo State, the BoT chairman expressed optimism that Mr. Eyitayo Jegede, who he described as the PDP candidate, would win the election.
Meanwhile, the National Caretaker Committee of the PDP has called for the reinstatement of the deposed Ojuromi of Uromi, Anslem Edenojie, by the Edo State Government.
A former Minister of Works, who is also a former Chairman, BoT of the PDP, Chief Tony Anenih, hails from Uromi.
The deposed traditional ruler was relieved of his position for allegedly assaulting a woman during the Edo State governorship election in September.
The monarch refused to apologise to the woman within the stipulated time after the woman, who was allegedly assaulted, reported him to the government.
Edonojie was suspended, forcing the embattled traditional ruler to approach the court, where he sued the former governor, Adams Oshiomhole, and demanded N1bn as damages.
The state government fired the traditional ruler the following day.
However, the PDP, under the leadership of Senator Ahmed Makarfi, faulted Oshiomhole for sacking the monarch, describing the action as an evidence of the former governors favouritism.
Spokesperson for the party, Dayo Adeyeye, who stated this in a statement in Abuja on Sunday, said, The deposition is further evidence of favouritism and despotic reign of Adams Oshiomhole as the (former) governor of Edo State for the past eight years.
It is also the evidence of the desire of the All Progressives Congress to destroy all constitutional and traditional institutions as well as the constitutional rights and freedom of the Nigerian people in its bid to establish a one party state.
The constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria empowers all Nigerian citizens to support, associate with and be affiliated to any political party and candidate of their choice.
Adeyeye said it was a known fact that several traditional rulers demonstrated open support, and in fact campaigned for the APC candidate, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, during the state governorship election.
Obaseki, who won the election, was sworn in on Saturday as the governor of the state.
Adeyeye added that the action of the former governor was an indication of his alleged willingness to destroy constitutional and traditional institutions that do not display obvious support for the tyrannical and anti-people programmes and policies of the APC.
He urged well-meaning Nigerians to prevail on Obaseki to reverse the deposition by restoring the monarch to his stool.
Source: Punch
Legendary martial art movie actor Jackie Chan has been awarded an honorary Oscar at the 8th Annual Governors Awards in Los Angeles, USA on Saturday for his contributions to the film industry.
Other honored people were film editor Anne Coates, documentary director Frederick Wiseman and casting director Lynn Stalmaster.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences had announced in September that four industry veterans will receive Oscar statuettes.
The Chinese actor bagged the award for his efforts after 56 years and 200 films.
Chan has written, directed, produced and starred in dozens of films where he won over audiences with his humour and stunts.
His most recent release was Skiptrace. Past credits include the Rush Hour series with Chris Tucker, The Karate Kid reboot and the voicing as the Shifu in the animated Kung-Fu Panda films.
This was truly a great achievement and honor for the artists. The Academy President Cheryl Boone Isaacs described the recipients as true pioneers and legends in their crafts.
The Sharia law enforcement agency in Jigawa State, Hisbah said it arrested 34 persons and confiscates 916 bottles of alcoholic drinks when it raided beer parlours in Kazaure Local Government Area of the state.
This was made known in a statement by the state commandant of the agency, Malam Saidu Aliyu, while speaking with reporters in Dutse on Monday.
According to Aliyu, the officials of Hisbah carried out a raid on Sunday at Gada and Kanti quarters in Kazaure town, adding that 673 empty bottles, four Jericans, two coolers and two jumbo-size pots used in brewing local beer, were also among the items recovered during the raid.
He said that the agency would continue to fight against immoral acts, including consumption of alcohol and reminded the people that consumption of beer remained prohibited in all parts of the state.
He therefore advised residents to desist from engaging in vices and other immoral acts capable of destroying the society.
Recall that, Hisbah, on Nov. 4, destroyed 238 bottles of assorted beer in same local government areas of the state.
HARRISBURG Political-power sharing at Pennsylvanias Capitol will enter unexplored territory when Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf and the largest legislative majorities of any political party in modern Pennsylvania history in this case Republicans begin a new two-year legislative session.
The legislative elections took place amid a wave breaking across Pennsylvania for President-elect Donald Trump.
Republicans picked up three seats in each chamber. Voters helped the GOP successfully defend seats in moderate suburban Philadelphia where Trump was deeply unpopular, and continued a longer-term trend of tilting western Pennsylvania to Republicans.
That means in January the House GOP will seat the largest majority of either party in the chamber in 60 years, when the Constitution allowed seven more seats, or 210. In the Senate, the GOP will seat the biggest majority of either side in almost 80 years, since the 1949-50 session.
The GOP majorities were already large, forcing Wolf to make significant concessions in past two years, primarily in his bid to increase taxes to wipe out a massive budget deficit and fix school-funding disparities that are among the nations widest. Along the way, he hit a wall in his drive to make Pennsylvanias tax structure more equitable, including a school-funding system that leans heavily on local property owners.
And while the Legislature has approved hundreds of millions more for schools, it was short of what Wolf originally requested. Meanwhile, Wolf lost the battle over how to distribute the money.
A tax increase will likely be back on Wolfs agenda, with budget makers expecting another large projected budget deficit. Wolf, presumably, will have his 2018 re-election bid on his mind. And adding intrigue to the coming legislative session is the expectation that one Republican senator Scott Wagner, a trashing hauling magnate from Wolfs own York County and possibly others will launch a gubernatorial bid to challenge Wolf.
Wolf downplayed the impact of Republican victories in Tuesdays election, saying it didnt change much.
Ive been working with an overwhelmingly Republican Senate for the last two years, Ive been working with an overwhelmingly Republican House for the last two years, weve gotten some pretty remarkable things done, Wolf told reporters Thursday.
Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman, R-Centre, said the victories solidify a dynamic that was already there. Despite a protracted budget stalemate that consumed Wolfs first year, Senate Republicans passed much of what they set out to pass, such as changes to the state system of selling wine and liquor and to benefits in the states public pension systems, Corman said.
Obviously, the second year was a better year working with the governor, and if he takes that perspective then we can get a lot done, Corman said Friday. If he goes back to a large tax-and-spend agenda, hell have troubles.
Disagreements between House and Senate GOP majorities were perhaps as big of a stumbling block as any dispute between Wolf and Republican lawmakers.
Still, Corman made it clear that Republicans would continue to pursue their agenda, such as advancing alternatives to traditional public schools. Larger Republican majorities also make it at least slightly more likely that Wolf will have to make even bigger concessions if he wants to advance his priorities.
With voters coming out primarily to cast a ballot in the presidential election, it was debatable how much they considered Wolfs performance when they delivered the legislative victories to Republicans.
Still, Wolf did not excuse himself. The election showed that Americans are frustrated, angry, worried and anxious, and that everyone in public life needs to do better, he said. The state also must find a way to lighten the property tax burden and spur more job and economic growth, Wolf said.
I am, I guess, the leader of the party in Pennsylvania, Wolf said, and so I have to take responsibility for not doing as well as we should have done. But again, Im trying to recognize here at the state level, with what we can do, what we need to do to address the concerns, the challenges, frustrations and anxieties of Pennsylvanians.
The Presidency on Monday warned that Nigeria could face famine in January if drastic steps are not taken now.
Nigeria, which is currently Africas largest producer of cereals and grains risks famine from early next year as a huge demand in the global market is targeting Nigerias surplus production.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu made the grim forecast in a radio interview in Kano on Monday.
Shehu told Pyramid radio that the huge demand for our grains in the global market is creating an excellent environment for the mindless export of Nigerian grains across our borders and unless this is curtailed, Nigerian markets will be bereft of food by January next year.
He said the Ministry of Agriculture has advised the President on the need to draw the attention of all Nigerians to the issue which, if not addressed promptly, could lead to a shortage of grains in Nigeria by January.
He said: Over the past year, Providence has blessed Nigeria with a bountiful harvest of grains, more than enough to feed the country and to export to other countries. At present, there is a high demand for grains from Nigeria, from African countries as distant as Libya and Algeria, and from places as far away as Brazil.
However, the ministry of agriculture has raised concerns about a massive rate of exportation, which could lead to a shortage of grains in Nigeria by January, Malam Garba said.
He explained that Nigeria currently enjoys a free market situation.
President Muhammadu Buhari is not in any way opposed to or intent on tampering with that. On the other hand, exporters also have a moral obligation to make their produce available to Nigerians who live within our countrys borders, to ensure that our citizens have access to food, he added.
The Presidents Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity informed the radio station that the ministry of agriculture estimated that no fewer than 500 trucks laden with grain leave Nigerian markets every week, headed for countries outside Nigerian borders.
The major markets involved in this exportation are: the Dawanau market in Kano, Naigatari in Jigawa, Bama in Borno, and Ilela in Sokoto, as well as three other main markets in Kebbi State, he said.
He further explained that President Buhari has on various occasions reiterated his plan for Nigeria to become a food-producing giant, self-sufficient to the point of depending very little on imported food.
This noble plan could easily be defeated by the pull of the foreign market if food continues to leave our shores to feed people elsewhere. If care is not taken, Nigeria could face a famine by January, he stressed.
Building our country into the edifice we envision it to be will require sacrifice and strategy from every single Nigerian. Let us remember that charity begins at home, said in the program.
Asked a question on what the government is doing to avert the frightening situation, the Presidential Spokesman said that President Buhari has asked the Ministry of Agriculture to present a quick plan for the purchase of surplus grains to be stored in warehouses across the country to save for the rainy day but opined that there was a need for moral pressure on exporters by traditional and religious authorities to curtail the depletion of the home market.
Source: TheNationOnline
Nigerian newspaper headlines November 14, 2016.
Vanguard
Following predictions that over 18.2 million Africans, including an estimated 4.8 million Nigerians, may become diabetic by 2030, as World Health Organisation, WHO, called for prioritisation of actions to prevent people becoming overweight and obese, beginning before birth and in early childhood.
Punch
The Lagos State Government is in search of a permanent site for the annual Lagos International Trade Fair.
Guardian
The Governing Council of the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has ordered the institutions striking workers to resume work today (Monday) or risk being sacked.
Premium Times
The founder of The Synagogue Church Of All Nations, Temitope Joshua, on Sunday said his earlier prophecy on the U.S. presidential election was given different interpretation by people on a different level with him.
The Sun
This, perhaps, is not the best of times for most Nigerians who either want to renew or procure international passport as they are finding it extremely difficult because the booklets are no longer available in most states of the country.
Thisday
Following the selection of Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the November 26 governorship election in Ondo State, former Lagos State governor and National Leader of the ruling APC, Chief Bola Tinubu, is faced with a dilemma over who to support.
The Nation
The Federal Government plan additional 1459MW from 20 power plants to the national grid next year to bring power generation above 6,000Mw.
Men of the Nigerian police have been reported to have opened fire at a group of Shia Muslims holding a demonstration in Kano, in preparation for the upcoming Arbaeen mourning rituals, which mark 40 days after the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein, the third Shia Imam.
Members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) were said to have been attacked when they were conducting the annual Arbaeen Symbolic Trekking from Kano to Zaria in Kaduna state.
Police blocked the road and fired teargas and live ammunition on the pilgrims. One has been reportedly killed, while some injured.
IMN has been banned in several northern states whose government accuse of being an unlawful society.
The Shia have also been targets of violence from Islamic extremists. They have been under attacks which have led to loss of their lives and properties like mosques and schools.
They continue to demand the release of their detained leader El-Zakzaky who remains in custody without a charge.
SEE ALSO: El-Rufai Orders Arrest Of Attackers of Shiites
@targanl ST. JOHNS (November 14, 2016) Newfoundland International Motorsports Limited is pleased to announce that plans to hold a Targa Bambina competition during the Canada Day long weekend in 2017. This mini version of the internationally acclaimed competition, will be held from June 30th July 3 and will consist of three days of competition, offering 16 competitive stages on the Burin Peninsula.
At the conclusion of the 15th annual Targa in September, it was obvious that there was strong demand for increased competitive motorsport activity within the province. With over one hundred competitors involved in the recent Targa, it became clear that another secondary event could be supported, this one by mostly local competitors.
This smaller version of the Targa is designed as a compact, three day adventure, instead of the grueling week-long event that is held each September. Two categories will be featured in the Bambina event for competitors to choose from Grand Touring, the competitive division, and Fast Touring, the non-competitive division.
The Bambina gives the opportunity for people with an interest in motorsports to try their hand at stage rallying, without having to commit to the time and effort that the full Targa would involve. Entry for this event is a fraction of the cost of the Targa, and the overall winner will gain free admission to Targas 16th annual event in September.
Tom Hollett was an immense supporter of the tarmac rally and embodies what Targa Newfoundland is all about. He was larger than life and created what he dreamed of. Targa will assist the Oldest Colony Trust, a registered charity that Tom created, that creates and maintains public amenities such as historical buildings, recreational areas, and trail systems in the Burin area. Funds generated by the Bambina, through nightly car shows, the use of community accommodations , and other initiatives, will go directly to the Trust, to support this worthy cause.
Managed and operated by Newfoundland International Motorsports Limited, Targa Newfoundland is one of three internationally recognized Targa motorsport events in the world. The Tom Hollett Memorial Bambina competition is scheduled for June 30 July 3, 2017. The event will utilize the roads on the Burin Peninsula and be based out of the community of Burin.
Contacts:
Media: Robyn Quinn 709-727-8536 robyn@targanl.com
Competitors: Darren Sheppard 1-877-332-2413 registrar@targanewfoundland.com
Websites: targanfld.com www.facebook.com/targanl www.twitter.com/targanl www.instagram.com/targa_nl
From: Darren Sheppard/ General Manager
Join us for the 16th annual Targa Newfoundland
September 9th-16th, 2017
Newfoundland International Motorsports Limited
303 Thorburn Road, Suite 2-D, St. Johns, Newfoundland & Labrador,
Canada. A1B 4R1
Tel: 709-722-2413 Tel: 877-332-2413 Fax: 709-753-7646
[targanfld.com]targanfld.com
www.facebook.com/targanl
www.twitter.com/targanl
This years Fintech Finance 35 highlights the importance of collaboration with funders and dealmakers, which has become just as critical for up-and-coming entrepreneurs.
Many of the Fintech Finance 35 those ranked by Institutional Investor as the leading financiers and facilitators of the ongoing entrepreneurial explosion in financial technology have "partner" in their titles. Their firms are structured as partnerships, but all on the list are partners in a practical, day-to-day sense. They are as much strategic advisers and collaborators as they are funders; "partnerships" are what they offer to companies they invest in and usher toward growth and maturity.
Take, for example, General Atlantic, a venerable growth equity firm whose financial services sector team made more than $1 billion in investments over the past 12 months under the direction of Jonathan Korngold, No. 1 in this year's ranking. A transaction announced in May with Argus Media, valuing the market news and data enterprise at nearly 1 billion ($1.2 billion), was characterized as a strategic partnership, with General Atlantic contributing its "expertise in the information services and Internet and technology sectors."
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General Atlantic also stressed partnership in leading a $325 million Series E funding late last year for marketplace lending platform Avant, with Korngold joining the company's board. Another Avant director is James Robinson III (No. 4), general partner of RRE Ventures, who says that "what we have to offer" comes first in conversations with prospective portfolio companies.
Although there is, by definition, a collaborative element in any investment or advisory relationship, the sector that has come to be known as fintech has special needs. The culture of a start-up is very different from that of an established financial institution; even if the latter wishes to be more nimble and embrace new ideas and technologies, its procurement and compliance bureaucracy can get in the way. Hence the emergence of ecosystems designed to lower such barriers. Eighteen-year-old FTV Capital (Brad Bernstein and Richard Garman, No. 7) pioneered in this regard with its Global Partner Network, which includes major financial companies that invest in FTV funds and thereby gain insight into new developments.
In recent years regional hubs have sprung up as meeting places for entrepreneurs, incumbents, and funders, among them the New York FinTech Innovation Lab (see Partnership Fund for New York City's Maria Gotsch, No. 12), London's Innovate Finance (Lawrence Wintermeyer, No. 28), FinTech Hong Kong (Janos Barberis, No. 32), and, in Singapore, a "smart financial center" spearheaded by the central bank (Sopnendu Mohanty, No. 34).
"We are beginning to observe much more of a push toward collaboration a shift from complete independence to an interest in building tools with established players that happened really quickly in this sector," notes Vanessa Colella (No. 18) of Citi Ventures.
General Atlantic's Korngold agrees that there is "increased collaboration between fintech companies and more traditional financial institutions," along with "a more grounded and realistic view of what each side can bring to the table, which is creating great partnership opportunities."
The Fintech Finance 35 ranking was compiled by Institutional Investor editors and staff, with nominations and input from industry participants and experts. The evaluation criteria included individual achievements and leadership at the respective firms; influence in the community at large; and the size, reputation, and impact of the respective funds and institutions in the financial technology industry and particularly in the current wave of fintech financing. To view the individual profiles, click on the names below. On the profile pages, last year's ranks are shown; newcomers are designated PNR (previously not ranked).
The Fintech Finance 35 will be honored at the iiFintech Awards taking place on December 1. The awards program was designed to bring together the honorees of the Tech 50, Fintech Finance 35, and Trading Technology 40 to explore how financial technology will continue to transform the industry.
This ranking was compiled under the direction of Senior Contributing Editor Jeffrey Kutler. Individual profiles were written by Kutler, Asia Bureau Chief Allen T. Cheng, Senior Writers Frances Denmark and Julie Segal, and Staff Writer Jess Delaney, as well as by former Editor Michael Peltz, Content Editor Anne Szustek, Associate Editor Kaitlin Ugolik, and Assistant Editor Jen Werner.
24. Fabian Vandenreydt Head, Innotribe SWIFT Last year: 26
Ecosystems designed to bridge the culture gap between established financial institutions and technology start-ups and encourage investments in the latter are so commonplace today that more than 30 of them have come together in the Global FinTech Hubs Federation, which SWIFTs Fabian Vandenreydt and Innovate Finances Lawrence Wintermeyer (No. 28) launched in August. Back in 2009 before fintech became a sound bite, Vandenreydt notes there was only Innotribe, an initiative of the Belgium-based SWIFT bank messaging cooperative intended to promote innovation among its membership and by extension throughout the financial services world. A former Euroclear vice president and Capco consultant who joined SWIFT in 2004, Vandenreydt was present at the creation of Innotribe and has been its head since 2013, overseeing, among other activities, an annual competition for start-ups that stages preliminary events beyond the normal hubs, he says, in places like Mexico City and Cape Town, South Africa. This years Innotribe Start-up Challenge winners, crowned during SWIFTs Sibos convention in Geneva in September, were U.K. companies Coin Sciences and RISE Financial Technologies, and San Franciscobased SmartContract. All are working on blockchain, or distributed ledger, systems, which in Vandenreydts view will evolve in certain pockets of the market. It is not ready, though, for broad adoption across the industry. The 51-year-old wears other hats: He is global head of securities markets; head of the SWIFT Institute, which has commissioned academic research on such topics as blockchain, payment innovations, and open application programming interfaces in banking; and is executive co-sponsor of SWIFTs own R&D. The common thread is ecosystem enabling, Vandenreydt explains: I want to weave innovation in with the business. You have to be agile in the way you respond to market opportunities. Otherwise its a hobby.
Pamela Peedin will step down as CIO of Dartmouth College in June 2017, the private university announced in a release late last week.
Executive search firm David Barrett Partners is working to secure a new leader for the $4.5 billion endowment. The firm has recently executed searches for investment chiefs at the Harvard Management Company, Stanford Management Company, American Red Cross, and the University of California.
Peedin joined Dartmouth in 2011. She arrived from Boston University, where as CIO Peedin set up the schools investment office and managed its then-$1 billion portfolio.
During her tenure at Dartmouth, the Hanover, New Hampshire-based Ivy League fund returned an average 8.8 percent annualized over the five years ending June 30, 2016.
Dartmouth, like most of its peers, posted a weak performance for 2016, losing 1.9 percent.
Peedin will depart at the end of the next fiscal year to spend time with her husband and their two teenage sons before the boys head to college, according to the announcement. This was not an easy decision for me, she continued. I do work I love for an institution I love.
Leanna Orr is Global Content Director of Investor Intelligence Network (IIN), Institutional Investors private community for asset owners.
India-Nepal Joint Training Exercise Surya Kiran culminates
Published: November 14, 2016
The tenth edition of India-Nepal Joint Military Training exercise was conducted at Army Battle School (NABS), Saljhandi in Nepal from 31 October to 13 November 2016.
The bilateral Military Training exercise had played important role in boosting defence ties between India and Nepal.
Key Facts
In this exercise, Indian Army is being represented by elite Kumaon Regiment, while Nepal Army is being represented by Jabar Jung Battalion.
It provided an ideal platform for troops of the two countries to share their experiences on Counter Terrorists Operations and Disaster Management.
During training other activities conducted included basic familiarisation with each others weapons & equipment and concepts while operating in Counter Terrorism environment.
Background
The Surya Kiran series of military exercises between India and Nepal are being conducted annually. It is the largest bilateral military exercise in terms of troops participation in series of military training exercises undertaken by India with various countries.
Month: Current Affairs - November, 2016
Topics: Defence India-Nepal Indian Military Exercises Military Exercises National Nepal surya kiran
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The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has launched a new national campaign urging businesses and households to prepare for what may be a severe disaster season.The ICA will aim to raise awareness over the course of the summer disaster season across Australia with targeted campaigns in different states.Rob Whelan, ICA CEO, said that the whole country shows elements of increasing risk for a severe summer of disasters.Its shaping up to be a severe summer of natural disasters, and insurers and emergency services organisations across Australia are concerned many households and businesses are not prepared, Whelan said.An above-average cyclone season has been forecast by the weather bureau, while the Bushfire and Natural Hazards Cooperative Research Centre predicts heightened risk across much of southern Australia, especially in New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia.The Bureau of Meteorology has also warned of the possibility of the formation of La Nina which could also bring increased rainfall to eastern and central Australia.The campaign will utilise print, online and radio and will see a cyclone-focused campaign targeting North Queensland, Darwin and the Pilbara, while a bushfire-focused campaign will be used in southern states.Last disaster season brought insured losses of more than $630 million and that was considered fairly benign, Whelan continued.Australians must not underestimate the damage a severe season could wreak.
A new report has suggested that M&A activity within the broker market will keep up its recent pace with one expert noting that scale will be vital for future success.The 2016 Insurance Broking Benchmarking Report, released by Macquarie , found that, even after the substantial consolidation of recent years, the industry appetite for M&A is still strong.The report found that 51% of the 200 broking firms surveyed from across Australia say that they are willing buyers- up from 44% five years ago. Only one in five principles are willing to even consider selling.Eoghan Trehy, division director for Macquarie Business Banking, told Insurance Business that M&A activity is not finished.Scale is just vital, Trehy said.The stats coming back in this survey point to the fact that size is important. It allows you to get the benefits of efficiencies and invest in those areas of the business that require fine-tuning around technology, whether it be workflow or customer relationship management tools.For smaller brokerages and ARs, Trehy said that finding a speciality or niche market will be key to setting businesses aside in a competitive market.The report found a surprisingly buoyant market with over a third of firms recording profit margins of greater than 30% in the last financial year. While many have been quick to note that the current market represents the worst performance in a generation, Trehy noted that brokers have focused on efficiencies to drive growth.Investment in technology will also be very important moving forward, Trehy stressed, as the industry develops in new ways. Trehy noted that while the business will remain focused on people, giving clients a choice will be paramount.I dont think sufficient focus, broadly across the market, has occurred on technology, Trehy continued.I think there is going to be a big separation of those that perform really strongly and those that have chosen to not embrace the technology and innovation or continued to look for efficiencies.Looking to the future, the report found that broking firms are optimistic. Eighty seven per cent expect higher revenues in 2017 and Trehy noted that green shoots can be seen in certain lines of business as the market moves from rock bottom to a slight uptick.Over the next 12 months, many businesses say hardening premiums will be a key factor underpinning growth, Trehy said.While smaller firms are focused on premium funding revenue and improving back office efficiencies further, high profit firms who have already bedded down more productive work flows and tools will prioritise new client acquisition to drive higher profits.Successful insurance broking firms are seeing the opportunity in a challenging market, and are looking to adjust their business model, utilising new technology and tools to stay at the forefront of the market and deliver an exceptional experience to clients.
Ethics and values
Business success
Client relationships
Teamwork
Innovation/entrepreneurship
Industry contribution
High achieving brokers working in the Australian market are being urged to enter for their chance to win the prestigious Valerie Baker Memorial Award.The award, which recognises excellence in professional practice in the general insurance intermediary sector, is considered to be one of the most important in the industry, attracting sponsorship this year from AIMS Group, Gold Seal and the Steadfast Group with support from Lloyds Australia and Lloyds of London.The award is open to all Australian brokers and underwriting agencies. The winner is selected on merit, and there are no limitations such as gender or cluster group membership.The selection criteria/success indicators are:A strong interest in exploring the foundations of the insurance industry and helping to fly the flag for Australian intermediaries in the London market will be highly regarded, the award organisers said.The judges for the 2017 award are a panel of senior industry professionals including Steadfasts Jim Rudkin; Chris Mackinnon , Lloyds general representative for Australia; Martin McAvenna, representing the AIMS Group; and Sheila Baker , managing director of Gold Seal, who is chair.The prize includes a first-hand opportunity to see how the London market operates with an expenses-paid trip to the UK capital, a specifically tailored educational experience, thorough insight into the workings of the London market and meetings of members thereof to offer a career enhancing networking opportunity.Last years award winner, Daniel Bullock of Safeguard Insurance Brokers in South Australia, recently returned from his London trip which was something he said he couldnt speak highly enough about.The contacts I have made both here in Australia and in London and their willingness to assist me was an experience in itself, he commented.The high regard in which they hold the Valerie Baker Memorial Award was apparent with everyone I met.This carried through to London where I was fortunate enough to meet a range of people from senior Lloyds brokers through to the British Insurance Brokers Association CEO and the deputy chairman of Lloyds.The people I have met and their roles in the industry is eye opening, he added.To be eligible, candidates are required to be resident in Australia and be currently employed by or the principal of a general insurance intermediary (insurance brokerage or underwriting agency).For guidance in the application process, potential candidates are invited to contact Sheila Baker from Gold Seal.Candidates can nominate themselves or a high achiever they know. Applications close on March 01, 2017.Visit here for more information.
Rob Whelan, CEO of the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA), has been re-elected to the Global Federation of Insurance Associations (GFIA) executive committee, it has been announced.The five-member committee includes some of the biggest names in global insurance and will be led by Governor Dirk Kempthorne, president and chief executive officer of the American Council of Life Insurers, who was named president.Whelan has been elected as membership executive.GFIA has a close working relationship with the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS), which plays a substantial role in shaping international and domestic regulatory environments, an ICA spokesperson told Insurance Business following Whelans re-election.GFIA also promotes the importance of insurance within the global economy to the G20. Mr Whelans presence on the GFIA executive committee ensures the interests of Australian insurers continue to be heard in these key international forums.Joining Whelan and Kempthorne are Recaredo Arias, director general of the Association of Mexican Insurance Companies, who was named vice-resident, Michaela Koller, director general of Insurance Europe, who was named secretary general, and Frank Swedlove, president of the Canadian Life & Health Insurance Association, who is past president.Bachir Baddou, general manager of the Moroccan Insurance Association, was elected as a regional representative on the executive committee, and Toyonari Sasaki, vice chairman of the Life Insurance Association of Japan, was elected as GFIAs treasurer.The Turkish Insurance Association was also announced as a new member of the global federation at its general assembly held in Asuncion, Paraguay, last week.It is with great pleasure that we welcome our colleagues in the Turkish Insurance Association into the federation, and we look forward to their contributions to our discussions, Whelan said.The GFIA was founded in 2012 by 32 life and health, property and casualty and reinsurance associations from around the world. It now includes 41 member associations, with interests in 60 countries.The companies represented account for more than US$4 trillion of total insurance premium, representing approximately 87% of total insurance premiums worldwide.
Opponents of a vote to legalize marijuana in Maine have taken the first step toward a potential recount request.
Voters in the state chose to legalize recreational marijuana via a referendum vote this week. The referendum won approval by a fraction of a percentage point after a count that took nearly two days.
The No On 1 campaign says it has picked up petition papers from the secretary of states office. Campaign director Scott Gagnon says the coalition that opposes legalization has received numerous requests to continue the fight.
Gagnon says the campaign is considering filing for a recount because of potential harm to Maine children and the states medical marijuana program.
Supporters of legalization say home cultivation could be legal by Christmas.
Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Topics Cannabis Maine
Joshua DeLeon earned $200 a week driving for Uber, a side job he used to buy an engagement ring for his girlfriend. Then he got a $300 ticket from Atlantic City for operating without a proper license, and he quit.
I was under the impression this was a legal business, said DeLeon, 29, of Egg Harbor Township. It should be a legal process.
Some Uber drivers operate surreptitiously to avoid fines, others are being chased by local regulators in what Atlantic City Licensing Director Dale Finch called a cat-and-mouse game.
Atlantic City has issued more than 300 tickets to ride-hailing drivers so far this year, Finch said.
DeLeon found himself, like many others, stuck in a legal limbo. Because ride-hailing companies such as Uber and Lyft are unregulated in New Jersey, some municipalities consider them illegal.
While state legislators are still working on a bill to protect consumers and eliminate a patchwork of local laws, the lack of statewide regulations has created a complicated problem for the drivers, the towns and taxi companies. Taxi drivers say they pay registration and licensing fees and have different requirements for background checks that their new competitors dont.
Stuck in between are people like 30-year-old Mays Landing resident Anthony Mazzone, a personal trainer at Tilton Fitness who drives for Uber on weekends.
Mazzone told the Press of Atlantic City he has learned quick how to avoid getting a ticket, staying away from taxi lines at certain casinos and using his app to get in contact with riders to let them know exactly where they will meet.
That is what makes the job uncomfortable. Its not picking people up that you dont know. Its not going to places where youre unfamiliar. Its the fact that you could be given a citation for driving a drunk person, he said.
Other states and towns have wrestled with the legality of Uber and Lyft. Earlier this month, Pennsylvania passed a law legalizing ride-hailing companies, but not after some uncertainty over whether to allow the service. Both companies pulled out of Austin, Texas, after the city wanted to require fingerprinting for drivers.
In October, the New Jersey Assembly passed a bill that would address some concerns, including requirements regarding driver eligibility, insurance coverage and records retention. The measure still needs to be approved in the Senate and Republican Gov. Chris Christie.
Uber spokesman Craig Ewer said the company instituted measures to keep passengers safe, including photos of the driver, license plate numbers and car descriptions, and ratings for both drivers and passengers.
Ewer said the company agrees that statewide regulation would give riders and drivers the certainty they need that ridesharing is here to stay. He said Uber runs extensive background checks on its drivers, looking at criminal history, motor vehicle records and sex offender databases.
Ewer said Uber would leave the state, as it has left other areas, if fingerprinting were required because they are based on incomplete data and can potentially discriminate against minority communities.
Finch, who supports fingerprinting, said Atlantic Citys major concern is background checks.
Uber says that they do a complete background check, and all the limos and taxis say the background check they use is not sufficient, he said.
Finch said Atlantic City will have to come up with an ordinance if the state doesnt take action.
Taxis and limos bring in money for the city. According to Finch, taxi drivers each pay an annual fee of $60 in addition to a $150 annual fee for a taxi medallion, which can have up to four drivers registered to it. There are 250 taxi medallions registered in the city. Limousine drivers pay an annual fee of $100.
Its the weekends where its very competitive between the limos and the taxis and now Uber, and the citys not booming like it was, so everyone is kind of fighting for the same dollar, Finch said.
Mercantile inspectors monitor valet lines at casinos on weekends to catch unlicensed drivers, he said.
DeLeon, an emergency room nurse, said he was stopped while picking up a client at Harrahs Resort.
Out of nowhere, this one valet driver said, `Are you an Uber driver? Then some guy came over and he asked for my license, but he didnt introduce himself, DeLeon said.
DeLeon later received two tickets in the mail. At his court date, there were seven ride-hailing drivers facing charges of operating an unlicensed limousine or taxi, he said.
Uber sent a lawyer to represent the drivers, but one of the two tickets was still imposed.
Information from: The Press of Atlantic City (N.J.)
Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Topics Legislation Personal Auto
Officials say the Lansing Board of Water & Light in Michigan has paid a $25,000 ransom to unlock its internal communications systems after they were disabled in the spring by a cyberattack.
General manager Dick Peffley told the Lansing State Journal it cost about $2.4 million to respond to the emergency, including paying for the ransom and technology upgrades to prevent future attacks. He says all but $500,000 of those costs are covered by insurance. He also said paying the ransom was distasteful and disgusting, but sadly necessary.
Records acquired through the Freedom of Information Act by the Lansing State Journal from the utility had a multi-layered Cyber Edge insurance policy with AIG and the Illinois National Insurance Co. at the time of the attack.
The April 25 cyberattack shut down the boards email and accounting systems after an employee unknowingly opened an email with an infected attachment. The virus affected email, phones, computers, printers and other technology, and it took about a week for the utility to recover.
Officials said at the time of the attack that the utility service continued but a phone line to report outages was affected along with an online outage map. Peffley said redundancies and separation of its corporate computer network from the utility network allowed it to continue operations.
There is no evidence that shows customer and employee personal information was compromised by the ransomware virus, said utility officials.
Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Topics Cyber Michigan
A jury has ruled the city of Chicago must pay nearly $2.5 million to a Chicago Transit Authority train operator who was injured after a police car chasing a bicyclist ran into a Brown Line train.
CTA worker Jeffery Bryants attorneys tell the Chicago Tribune a Cook County jury ruled last week in favor of their client, who suffered a serious spinal injury after the August 2012 crash in the Albany Park neighborhood.
The suit hinged on an interpretation of a Chicago Police Department policy requiring officers to weigh the need to pursue a suspect against the danger created by a motor vehicle chase.
The city argued the rule only applies to cases in which a police car pursues another vehicle. Bryants attorneys argued the order should govern all police cars regardless of the suspects mode of transportation.
Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Duke Energy Corp. agreed to a $27 million settlement of claims that directors wrongfully concealed their plan to fire Chief Executive Officer William Johnson just minutes after the company closed on its $13.7 billion merger with Progress Energy Inc.
Duke Energy agreed to settle multiple suits over Johnsons removal after a judge concluded Sept. 1 that its board members must face accusations they acted in bad faith by hiding plans to oust ex-Progress CEO Johnson from shareholders and regulators so they could install Duke Energy CEO James Rogers as the merged companys top executive. Charlotte, North Carolina-based Duke Energy is the second-largest U.S. utility owner by market value.
Duke Energy is pleased that the parties were able to reach a settlement agreement, Dave Scanzoni, a company spokesman, said Friday.
The accord, which will be funded by certain insurers, isnt an admission by the company of any liability or wrongdoing, Dukes lawyers said in a Nov. 9 court filing in Chancery Court in Wilmington, Delaware.
Chancery Judge Sam Glasscock III concluded on Sept. 1 that investors raised legitimate questions about whether Duke Energy directors acted improperly by not disclosing to shareholders their plan for a boardroom coup and violated North Carolina law by keeping it from regulators.
Johnson became Duke Energys CEO for what may be one of the briefest tenures in corporate history, holding the position for a few minutes before the newly formed board held a meeting and voted to oust him and put Rogers at the helm, according to investors court filings.
Under the merger agreement, Johnson was slated to become the merged power providers top executive, but Ex-Duke Energy directors outnumbered former Progress board members and plotted to immediately remove Johnson once the deal was finalized, shareholders alleged.
They elected to make it appear that they were going to comply with the merger agreement, when in fact they had decided to fire Johnson immediately post-merger and replace him with Old Duke CEO Rogers, the judge said in his ruling rebuffing Duke Energys bid to have the suits thrown out.
The judge must give final approval to the tentative settlement of the so-called derivative suits. Investors dont receive awards in such cases and the insurance payout from policies covering directors will go into the Duke Energys coffers.
The case is In RE Duke Energy Corporation Derivative Litigation, CA 7705, Delaware Chancery Court (Wilmington).
Copyright 2022 Bloomberg.
Topics Carriers
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EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced that Ascende an EPIC Company has promoted Mary Parker and Dina Flavin to managing principals in Houston. In addition, the companys Southwest Region also welcomed Javier Yturralde as its Global Solutions practice leader.
Parker and Flavin join Steve Goulet and Suzanne McGarey as strategic leaders of Ascendes Health & Welfare practice. Collectively, they also serve as client engagement managers, providing senior leadership support and direction to the firms consulting clients.
Parker joined Ascende in 2005 as a senior associate. Most recently, she led the Global Solutions practice, supporting clients globally mobile employees, including U.S. expatriates, rotators, third country nationals and local nationals. Prior to joining the firm, Parker served as a benefits analyst at Reliant Energy Inc. and the Westlake Group.
Flavin began her career at Ascende in 2005 as a senior associate as well. Prior to joining the firm, she held 10 years of experience with actuarial and underwriting roles in the health insurance industry.
Yturralde brings 20 years of international employee benefits experience. Prior to joining the firm, he served as regional director of Broker/Insurance Partnerships at International SOS where he was responsible for the development and expansion of key brokerage, consulting and insurer relationships in the U.S.
He also previously served as regional director of MetLifes Multinational Solutions, formerly AIG.
Source: EPIC
Florida voters approved a state constitutional amendment last week to legalize medical marijuana, broadening access to pot beyond the limited therapeutic uses approved by the legislature two years ago.
Amendment 2 passed with 71 percent approval, well above the 60 percent needed to become law. Two years ago a similar measure received 58 percent.
We were confident going into the election that it was going to pass but this is truly historic, said Ben Pollara, campaign manager for United for Care.
Pollara said internal polling suggested that over 70 percent would vote for the amendment, but he was still surprised to see the actual results.
Currently, the law allows non-smoked, low-THC pot for patients with cancer or ailments that cause chronic seizures or severe spasms. The ballot measure formally legalizes medical marijuana, and broadens access for diseases with symptoms other than seizures or spasms.
Specifically the measure allows prescriptions for 10 illnesses: cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, AIDS, post-traumatic stress disorder, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Crohns disease, Parkinsons and multiple sclerosis. It also allows doctors to prescribe pot for any other similar kind of ailment.
Two years ago, when the measure fell short of approval, opponents expressed concerns that the state would be overrun with pot shops and that children wouldnt be adequately protected from potential bad effects of the drug.
Many thought that having the issue on the ballot during a presidential election would help the measure this time.
There is more embracing of marijuana, especially for medical purposes, nationally, said Pat Allen, a 51-year old teacher from Tallahassee who voted for it.
Florida becomes the 26th state along with the District of Columbia to legalize the marijuana plant for medical use. Before the passage of Amendment 2, Florida was one of 16 states where only part of the marijuana plant is used.
Proponents said loopholes were closed this time, including requiring parental written consent for underage patients.
Better late than never, said Ethan Nadelmann, executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance. Most states outside the South already have legal medical marijuana, but the overwhelming victory today in Florida is likely to accelerate the momentum for reform throughout the region.
The Department of Health will regulate how medical marijuana can be distributed along with mandating identification cards for caregivers and patients. Many rules and regulations from how the marijuana is grown to regulations on how it can be transported for in-home delivery already have been passed by the legislature under laws for limited use of marijuana. Those regulations also will apply to the constitutional amendment.
The No on 2 campaign issued a statement saying that they hope the authors of the amendment are true to their word that the legislature will have wide discretion on regulation of medical marijuana.
Pollara said there have been conversations with the legislature about the next steps before the 2017 session begins in March.
There is still a lot of work to do. There are still a number of clear and present conflicts between the current statute and the amendment. However it is nothing that cant be worked out, Pollara said.
Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Topics Florida Legislation Cannabis
The University of Georgia will spend more than $400,000 after federal inspectors found dozens of safety violations in the way it handles hazardous waste.
Under a consent agreement and final order with the Environmental Protection Agency, the university will pay a $99,900 penalty and spend $333,000 over the next 18 months on programs that will help local public school districts and emergency response organizations in low-income areas upgrade hazardous waste practices, response capabilities and materials handling.
The Athens Banner-Herald reports UGA President Jere Morehead signed the agreement Wednesday with Larry Lamberth, chief of the EPAs Region 4 Enforcement and Compliance Branch.
In inspections dating back to October 2014, EPA found violations in a number of UGA buildings and a lab in the Riverbend Research Lab North.
The EPA said UGA failed to monitor storage areas for leaking or deteriorating containers; stored wastes in unclosed containers; failed to properly label hazardous waste; and failed to give UGA workers required training in hazardous waste handling, among other violations.
Although federal authorities found numerous violations in UGA hazardous waste handling, including improperly using tap water to dilute waste poured into a sink drain, the agency did not find any of the violations placed UGA students or workers in any danger, according to a university announcement of the settlement.
According to that announcement, the university will coordinate with public school districts to upgrade lighting in elementary and secondary schools, working with them to remove and properly dispose of fluorescent lights and fixtures containing mercury or PCBs and replace them with light-emitting diode (LED) equipment.
The agreement allows UGA to provide help in low-income communities across the state, but officials plan to prioritize initiatives in Athens-Clarke County, said university spokesman Greg Trevor.
UGA has also addressed all violations alleged by the EPA, according to the universitys announcement.
Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Topics Georgia Pollution Education Universities
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What Is Passive Income?
Passive income is earnings derived from a rental property, limited partnership, or other enterprise in which a person is not actively involved. As with active income, passive income is usually taxable, but it is often treated differently by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
Key Takeaways Passive income is earnings from a rental property, limited partnership, or other business in which a person is not actively involved.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has specific rules for what it calls material participation, which determine whether a taxpayer has actively participated in business, rental, or other income-producing activity.
A taxpayer can claim a passive loss against income generated from passive activities.
1:18 Passive Income
Understanding Passive Income
There are three main categories of income: active income, passive income, and portfolio income. Passive incomes include earnings from a rental property, limited partnership, or other business in which a person is not actively involveda silent investor, for example.
Proponents of earning passive income tend to be boosters of a work-from-home and be-your-own-boss professional lifestyle. Passive income has been a relatively loosely used term in recent years. Colloquially, its been used to define money being earned regularly with little or no effort on the part of the person receiving it.
Passive income, when used as a technical term, is defined by the IRS as either net rental income or income from a business in which the taxpayer does not materially participate, and in some cases can include self-charged interest.
Portfolio income is considered passive income by some analysts. However, the IRS does not always agree that income from dividends, interest, and so forth is passive, so its wise to check with a tax professional on that subject.
Types of Passive Income
Passive income includes self-charged interest, rental properties, and businesses in which the person receiving income does not materially participate. There are specific IRS rules that need to be followed for income to be considered passive.
Self-charged interest
When money is loaned to a partnership or an S corporation acting as a pass-through entity (essentially, a business designed to reduce the effects of double taxation) by that entitys owner, the interest income on that loan to the portfolio income can qualify as passive income. Certain self-charged interest income or deductions may be treated as passive activity gross income or passive activity deductions if the loan proceeds are used in a passive activity, the IRS states.
Rental properties
Rental properties are defined as passive income with a couple of exceptions. If youre a real estate professional, any rental income that youre making counts as active income. If youre self-renting, meaning that you own a space and are renting it out to a corporation or partnership where you conduct business, that does not constitute passive incomeunless that lease had been signed before 1988, in which case youve been exempted into having that income defined as passive.
Income from leasing land does not qualify as passive income, either. However, a landowner can benefit from passive income loss rules if the property nets a loss during the tax year.
If you hold land for investment, any earnings would be considered active.
No material participation in a business
If you put $500,000 into a candy store with the agreement that the owners would pay you a percentage of earnings, that would be considered passive income as long as you do not participate in the operation of the business in any meaningful way other than making the investment. If you helped in managing the company with the owners, then your income could be seen as active, because you provided material participation.
The IRS has standards for material participation. The following are all considered examples of material participation:
If youve dedicated more than 500 hours to a business or activity from which youre profiting
If your participation in an activity has been substantially all of the participation for that tax year
If youve participated up to 100 hours and that is at least as much as any other person involved in the activity
Special Considerations
When you record a loss on a passive activity, only passive activity profits can have their deductions offset as opposed to the income as a whole. It would be prudent to ensure that all your passive activities were classified that way, to make the most of the tax deduction. These deductions are allocated for the next tax year and are applied in a reasonable manner that takes into account the next years earnings or losses.
To save time and effort, you can group two or more passive activities into one larger activity, provided that you form an appropriate economic unit, according to the IRS. When you do this, instead of having to provide material participation in multiple activities, you only have to provide it for the activity as a whole. In addition, if you include multiple activities in one group and have to dispose of one of those activities, youve only done away with part of a larger activity as opposed to all of a smaller one.
The organizing principle behind this grouping is relatively simple: if the activities are located in the same geographic area; if the activities have similarities in the types of business; or if the activities are somehow interdependentfor instance, if they have the same customers, employees, or use a single set of books for accounting.
For example, if you owned a pretzel store and a sneaker store located in malls in both Monterey, Calif., and Amarillo, Texas, you would have four options for how to group their passive income:
Grouped into one activity (both businesses were in shopping malls)
Grouped by geography (Monterey and Amarillo)
Grouped by type of business (retail sales of pretzels and shoes)
Or they could remain ungrouped
What are examples of passive income? Passive income consists of money and losses generated from an enterprise in which a person is not actively involved. Examples include property rental (provided real estate isnt your line of work), equipment leasing, and limited partnership interest.
Is investment income considered passive income? Passive income is frequently defined, somewhat loosely, as earnings derived from activities that dont require active participation. However, interest, dividends, and capital gainsinvestment earnings that generally dont require much active participation to obtainare not classified by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as passive income. Instead, they fall under the category of portfolio income.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia - November 14, 2016 (Investorideas.com Newswire) SilverCrest Metals Inc. (TSXV: $SIL.V) ("SilverCrest" or the "Company") is pleased to announce an update on the underground rehabilitation program at its Las Chispas Property ("Las Chispas") located in Sonora, Mexico . SilverCrest's initial focus was on the Las Chispas, William Tell and Babicanora veins. Exploration has been expanded to include a new, recently discovered target at the historic Varela Mine. This mine has two near-parallel veins that are approximately 300 metres west of the William Tell Vein.
N. Eric Fier , CPG, P.Eng, President & CEO commented, "We continue to gain further access to historic workings and expand our high grade footprint at Las Chispas. The latest results from the ongoing underground rehabilitation are for the historic Varela Mine, which includes bonanza grades of up to 40.9 grams per tonne ("gpt") gold and 610.0 gpt silver or 3,677.5 gpt silver equivalent ("AgEq", based on 75(Ag): 1(Au) and 100% metallurgical recovery) over 0.3 metres. Our sample results on four levels are showing multiple grades of over 1,400 gpt AgEq. From visual inspection, the Varela Mine has two veins (the Main Vein and the Footwall Vein) and appears to have had less historical production than either the Las Chispas or William Tell veins. The grades mined at Varela may have been below an assumed historic cut-off grade of 1,000 gpt silver. SilverCrest plans on drill testing this target during the ongoing Phase II exploration program."
Underground Rehabilitation Update
The Company has accessed approximately 7 kilometres of underground workings to date, with an additional 4.5 kilometres to be opened and explored over the next several months. As SilverCrest opens and explores the underground workings, the Company continues to systemically collect samples at intervals of two to three metres along strike length of veins. The Company collected a total of 318 samples at the Varela veins from 450 metres of underground access as reported below (see attached Figure and Photo). Of the 318 samples tested, 129 were vein samples and used for assay composites. The remaining samples were of hangingwall and footwall material. Sampling locations and widths are restricted to historic workings, which may only represent part of the mineralized vein, stockwork or breccia. The Company plans to complete drilling at the Varela veins to determine the location, true thickness and extent of mineralization.
The composited sample results (uncut, undiluted) for this release for four underground levels are;
Level 1: average 0.53 metres wide grading 2.96 gpt gold and 47.0 gpt silver, or 330 gpt AgEq over a continuous 6.5 metre strike length.
Level 2: average 0.69 metres wide grading 1.22 gpt gold and 114.1 gpt silver, or 205 gpt AgEq over a continuous 10 metre strike length.
Level 3: average 0.88 metres wide grading 4.76 gpt gold and 147.6 gpt silver, or 504 gpt AgEq over a continuous 10 metre strike length.
Level 4: average 1.1 metres wide grading 3.13 gpt gold and 223.6 gpt silver, or 458 gpt AgEq over a continuous 80 metre strike length excluding 7 metres of faulting.
There appears to be an increase in vein width and grade from the near surface Level 1 (1,160 metre elevation) to the deeper Level 4 (1,130 metre elevation).
The following table summarizes the 17 most significant un-composited assay results (uncut, undiluted) greater than 500 gpt AgEq from the four levels at the El Sheik historic workings of the Varela Main Vein only;
Note: all numbers are rounded.
*AgEq based on 75(Ag):1(Au) and 100% metallurgical recovery.
** The underground sample width of mineralization may not be indicative of the true width of mineralization. Sampling widths are constrained by access to open faces. Drilling may suggest wider mineralized zones.
All assays were completed by ALS Chemex in Hermosillo, Mexico , and North Vancouver, BC.
The Varela veins are a low to intermediate sulphidation epithermal system immediately adjacent and near parallel to the Las Chispas and William Tell veins. The Varela veins consist of mineralized veining, stockwork or breccia. Similar to the Las Chispas Vein, the Varela veins are exposed at surface with numerous historic underground workings.
The Company intends to continue with the underground rehabilitation program on the property and reporting results for at least the remainder of 2016.
The Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects for this news release is N. Eric Fier , CPG, P.Eng, and President and CEO for SilverCrest, who has reviewed and approved its contents. For more information on Las Chispas and recent channel sampling results and drill results, please refer to our website at www.silvercrestmetals.com.
ABOUT SILVERCREST METALS INC.
SilverCrest is a Canadian precious metals exploration company headquartered in Vancouver, BC , that is focused on new discoveries, value-added acquisitions and targeting production in Mexico's historic precious metal districts. The Company is led by a proven management team in all aspects of the precious metal mining sector, including the pioneering of a responsible "phased approach" business model taking projects through discovery, finance, on time and on budget construction, and production with subsequent increased value to shareholders.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. These include, without limitation, statements with respect to: the strategic plans, timing and expectations for the Company's exploration, rehabilitation and drilling programs of the Las Chispas Property; and information with respect to high grade areas and size of veins projected from underground sampling results; and the accessibility of future mining at the Las Chispas Property. Such forwardlooking statements or information are based on a number of assumptions, which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things: the conditions in general economic and financial markets; availability of skilled labour; timing and amount of expenditures related to rehabilitation and drilling programs; and effects of regulation by governmental agencies. The actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of risk factors including: the timing and content of work programs; results of exploration activities; the interpretation of drilling results and other geological data; receipt, maintenance and security of permits and mineral property titles; environmental and other regulatory risks; project cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; and general market and industry conditions. Forward-looking statements are based on the expectations and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. The assumptions used in the preparation of such statements, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in this news release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law.
N. Eric Fier, CPG, P.Eng.
CEO and President
SilverCrest Metals Inc.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
SOURCE SilverCrest Metals Inc.
For Further Information:
SilverCrest Metals Inc.
Contact: Fred Cooper, Investor Relations
Telephone: +1 (604) 694-1730
Fax: +1 (604) 694-1761
Toll Free: 1-866-691-1730 (Canada & USA)
Email: info@silvercrestmetals.com
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Foreign Minister Charlie Flanagan has pledged to underline the country's commitment to the European Union during a visit to the Middle East.
Mr Flanagan is in Abu Dhabi for the second day of his three-day tour of the Gulf, leading an Enterprise Ireland trade mission.
He said: "My visit is timely as it offers an opportunity to bring clear messages to important partners in the Gulf about Ireland's position in the wake of the UK vote to leave the European Union.
"I made clear that Ireland will remain a strong and active member of the Union."
The Minister is expected to meet with the UAE's minister for foreign affairs, Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and with the country's education minister, Hussain Ibrahim al Hammadi.
He will also meet with Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
On Saturday, in Riyadh, he held a series of bilateral meetings to discuss a range of issues including the stalled Middle East peace process and the humanitarian impact of conflicts in Yemen and Syria.
"These are issues of concern to the Irish people," added Mr Flanagan.
"With the minister of state for education, I had an opportunity to discuss the possibility of increasing the number of Saudi students coming to study in Ireland's universities and institutes of technology around the country."
He also took part in a number of commercial events to support Irish companies.
"I welcome the opportunity to see first-rate Irish companies at work, and to support them in their efforts to secure new business and so support jobs at home," said the Minister.
Once you pass Dundalk, you begin to see the signs for shops and businesses offering straight euro for sterling conversion.
Businesses are quite happy to give what is in effect a 10% discount on sales for the extra trade it brings. The car parks in shopping centres in Newry are full again, Im told, with two southern registration plates for every Northern plate.
And all this is happening even before the UK even formally begins to exit the EU. The British prime minister Theresa May might be right in stating that Brexit means Brexit, but whatever else Brexit means, Brexit surely means tax.
From time immemorial, customs duties have been the mechanism used by countries to protect and defend the commercial interests of their own business sectors. The UK leaving the EUs single market means the reintroduction of customs duties, and that means imports to Ireland from the UK will become more expensive irrespective of the current softness of sterling.
While the UK government has signalled that the Brexit process will formally begin sometime around March 2017, the UK will remain a full member of the EU for some two years afterwards.
I met with EU Tax Commissioner Pierre Moscovici in Strasbourg recently, mainly to discuss the new EU proposals for the cross-border taxation of companies, but inevitably the topic of Brexit was raised.
The Commissioner was quite clear there was nothing to discuss, at least not at the moment. While Mr Moscovici and his team will have responsibility on Brexit customs issues, he would only say his team was making preparations.
I dont think there is too much sympathy for the UK position within any of the EU institutions. Nor does it seem that there is any great sympathy for any special future arrangements for Ireland by reason of our geographic and trading ties with our larger, departing neighbour.
Money always talks, and within an EU context, customs duties speak a bit louder than many other taxes. This is because customs duties serve a twofold purpose.
The first is to protect commercial interests. The remaining members of the single market post-Brexit will want to ensure that their commercial interests are not damaged.
But the second purpose of customs, sometimes overlooked, may well be just as important. In most cases, EU countries retain the taxes they collect, but customs is different.
For every 100 in customs duty collected, 75 goes directly to Brussels to fund the European project.
Only 25 goes to our exchequer as a sort of handlers fee for going to the trouble of collecting it. The more favourable any future customs deal between the UK and the EU, the less direct cash for Brussels.
Were only at the start of feeling the Brexit impact. Thats why the Taoiseach is correct in resisting suggestions to create a Brexit Minister.
The Brexit impact on Ireland will be felt across almost the entire range of cabinet responsibilities.
For now, Brexit may even be suiting some of us as evidenced by Newry car parks filled with southern registered cars.
That will change.
Brian Keegan is director of taxation with Chartered Accountants Ireland.
So Trump has done it. The president elect has visited Barack Obama in the Oval Office. The handover process has begun.
Senior folks have kissed and made up, but make no mistake about it. A revolution will be kick-started in late January, one that will not bring much in the way of comfort to most people on this island.
Initially, at least, the greatest shakeup will be in the area of economic policy. The new administration is unashamedly pro-business. The key players will be looking to hit some early home runs while the wind is at their back that is, during the famous first 100 days of the presidency.
Naturally, we are worried. The incoming administration is committed to a transformative tax package, including a cut in the US corporation tax rate from 35% to 15%. Tax reform lies at the very top of its agenda.
Mr Trumps economic adviser, Stephen Moore, rattled nerves over here, when he stated in a BBC interview that changes in the tax regime would result in a flood of investment and jobs from countries including Ireland, that have benefited greatly from current anomalies in the whole business taxation area.
Mr Moore, however, hinted at the likelihood of compromise. He suggested the tax rate would drop to between 15% and 20%. In an interview on Newstalk, he was at pains to stress that Ireland was not a particular target.
Eamonn Fingleton, a leading international expert, has pointed out that it is just not realistic to expect that America can pull back to its shores vast quantity of business operations.
Multinationals need to have operations overseas in order to tap large markets such as the EU. The 21st manufacturing chain is highly sophisticated and strung out. Large amounts of money have been invested in state-of-the-art plants.
The big question is whether bodies like the IDA will have a struggle to maintain foreign investment activity at reasonable, let alone the recent elevated levels. A few months of acute uncertainty lie ahead during which many plans are effectively put on hold.
The Trump administration will be able to count on a Republican-dominated Congress, with a large majority in the House of Representatives. The House Ways and Means Committee has jurisdiction in relation to tax and welfare entitlements. Its chair is Texan congressman, Kevin Brady.
In a post-election interview on CNBC, Mr Brady said he was thrilled that Trump is ready to move on the economy... we need to fix our broken tax code. Mr Brady singled out as key items, a redesign of the tax code and a reduced regulatory burden. Infrastructure spend can play a role but it is not quite the silver bullet, he said.
It is 30 years since the Reagan administration passed the Tax Reform Act. Its supporters insist it helped pave the way for sustained growth. Since then, the tax code has become much more complicated, with 4,400 changes.
Unlike Ronald Reagan, president Trump will not have to negotiate with a Democrat-led Congress, but he will not have a completely free hand. The current Speaker, Paul Ryan, favours fiscal orthodoxy and will look for cuts to vastly expensive programmes like Medicare. Obamacare lies on the chopping board. But the Trump team will be happy to run a larger deficit.
Returning to Irelands prospects for foreign direct investment, while there are grounds for concern, there may be no reason to panic just yet.
Padraic White.
Padraic White served as IDA chief for 10 years. He remains an active business player. I do not believe we are at an end of an era. The big impact will be felt by US companies which relocated to Mexico, China, Vietnam. The rationale for Ireland is entirely different, he said.
He points out that every US president elected since the mid-1970s has talked of bringing jobs back to the US.
He insists that tax considerations are not at the top of the list for US multinationals, here. Many would beg to differ. Significantly, he believes that we should not rule out further corporation tax cuts in what will be a more competitive environment.
Mr White is more concerned about the assault on our position being led by EU commissioners Margrethe Vestager and Pierre Moscovici and by the impact on our indigenous sector from Brexit. He believes many companies hit by the fall in sterling and the impending British exit will opt for diversification.
He believes that Ireland remains attractive to investors as it will soon be the only English speaking country in the EU and he points out that former UK chancellor George Osborne has already cut the Brirish corporation tax rate from 32% in recent years without destroying our economy in the process.
TCD professor of business Frank Barry believes that Ireland can weather whatever storm may be coming our way from across the ocean.
While Irelands attractiveness in relative terms may be diminished, Prof Barry doubts that we are at a turning point where we need to tear up our long established US-driven foreign investment strategy. He agrees that some feared reforms such as the OECD crackdown on tax havens ended up boosting Government revenues from corporation tax.
There is of course, little room for complacency. Public sector workers may need to rein in, somewhat. Finance Minister Michael Noonan has warned the fiscal space for any further easing in budgetary policy may have largely disappeared by the next budget.
At the same time, the pressure to start delivering on the housing front is now imperative if our labour market competitiveness is to be restored. Human relationships still count and as a country, Ireland needs to build relationships with the new White House.
It was significant that the president elect has recommitted to the cherished St Patricks Day encounter with the Taoiseach. Ireland retains an inside track of sorts. Our Governments should stick to certain principles, but a bit of good old fashioned pragmatism on occasions can go a long way.
We may have reason to be glad about Mr Noonans much-derided decision to welcome Donald Trump to Ireland at the time of his visit to Doonbeg golf links, a couple of years ago.
We should, however, be aware the president is answerable above all to his domestic constituency and Mr Trump owes big favors to those blue collar states such as Michigan and Pennsylvania which delivered his victory.
Ireland has enjoyed a great run on the investment front, but there are no guarantees in this life. We will need to be nifty on our feet.
Entitled 'Trades and Traditions of the Past' this year's calendar is a beautiful selection of photographs from the Irish Examiner and Evening Echo archive and captures imagery from trades and traditions of years gone by.
The Simon Communities throughout Ireland provide care, accommodation and support for people experiencing and at risk of homelessness.
Simon also work hard to tackle the root causes of homelessness, promote innovative responses to it and continually lobby government and the relevant state agencies in relation to the issue.
Simon delivers support and service to over 5,000 individuals and families on an annual basis.
This year's calendar is priced at 12 and is on sale now from the Irish Examiner and Evening Echo shop on Oliver Plunkett St, and online here.
Commenting on this year's calendar initiative, Deputy Marketing Manager Karen O'Donoghue said both the Irish Examiner and Evening Echo were delighted to be involved with the charity.
"Its a charity that does great work in the city and its wonderful to be able to fundraise on their behalf. The calendar is an opportunity to showcase the photographs that we have available in the archive and wed hope that it will bring a lovely sense of nostalgia into peoples homes next year when theyre looking back at the old black and white images."
Don't forget you can also explore over 174 years of Irish Examiner news online in our fully digitised newspaper archive or browse and / or purchase more images from our archive in our photosales site
According to AA Insurance, 4.42% of Cork customers were denied house insurance because of flooding risk, compared to a national average of 1.37%.
Cork homeowners were also twice as likely to be denied house insurance because of past flood damage than other householders who had also experienced flooding.
In the survey of almost 9,000 AA members and home insurance customers, 0.37% of those surveyed had been denied home cover by at least one provider because of past flood damage to their property. However, in Cork this figure stood at 0.62%.
The director of AA consumer affairs, Conor Faughnan, said investments must be made in flood defences.
The survey showed that one in five homeowners in Cork suffered minor damage to their homes because of weather events, with high winds the principal cause of damage, and 21.31% of Cork homes had been damaged slightly higher than the national average of 19.39%.
Across the country, high winds are the main cause of damage to homes, followed by fallen trees or branches, wind-propelled debris, flood water, and heavy rain.
Earlier this year it was revealed that flood defences around Morrisons Island in Cork City are to be fast-tracked.
The area is affected by tidal flooding of the River Lee.
The Office of Public Works is overseeing Corks 60m flood defence scheme the largest of its kind in the country.
However, this festive season, the comment will be reflected on the calendar and not just in TDs pockets, after a Dail committee agreed to close parliament a week earlier than planned.
The decision was made by the cross-party business committee last Thursday in response to the decision last month to sit for two days during the mid-term Halloween break.
The Bonne Terre City Council, Desloge Board of Aldermen and the Central school board will hold meetings tonight.
The Bonne Terre City Council will meet in regular session today at 6 p.m. at Bonne Terre City Hall, located at 118 North Allen Street in Bonne Terre.
Listed under new business, Paul Williams is requesting permission for Chautauqua to be held on July 13-15 next year, the council will discuss water billing with Mariah Hinkle, the utility clerk, and they will discuss a request by Shawn Braswell for storage units at Route K and Carzon Road. They will also discuss bids for security cameras.
The council will hear department reports. The meeting is open to the public.
The Desloge Board of Aldermen will meet at 7 p.m. tonight at Desloge City Hall, located at 300 N. Lincoln St.
According to the tentative agenda, the board will consider two ordinances. The first establishes a city policy on beekeeping. The second covers the control of debris and weeds. The board will also discuss plans for next month's Christmas dinner for city employees.
The meeting is open to the public.
The Central Board of Education will meet tonight at 5:30 p.m. in the Central High School auditorium located at 116 Rebel Dr. in Park Hills.
A recognition ceremony for the accomplishments of middle and high school students will take up the bulk of the meeting.
Also on the agenda will be approval of routine consent agenda items, including the payment of bills and approval of substitute teachers.
In new business, board members will consider a comprehensive district school improvement plan as presented by Assistant Superintendent Troy Bollinger, who will also summarize bids received for purchase of a new bus.
The meeting is open to the public.
Cork County Council is proposing to increase the rents for tenants in houses previously controlled by the countys now-defunct nine town councils. The council executive hope to raise a further 750,000 through the targeted increases.
However, Sinn Fein councillors, in advance of the meeting, said they will strongly oppose County Halls proposed move.
Traditionally, town councils adopted a lower rent than the county rate, primarily as their housing units were older.
We are totally opposed to any council rent increase during the present housing crisis, said councillor Des OGrady (SF).
Some former town council tenants pay slightly lower rents than other council tenants because they generally live in housing that is older and of inferior standard, he claimed.
He maintained the proposal was never debated by the full council or the councils Housing Special Purposes Committee (SPC) and came at a time when the local authority has amassed an extra 2m through increasing the Local Property Tax.
Cllr OGrady also said the measure was premature, as the Government was proposing to bring in legislation for a single Differential Rent Scheme for social housing across the State and maintained the Cork County Council was well aware of the planned scheme.
The council should have waited for the outcome of this legislation as these tenants may now face an unjustified rent increase compared to the government scheme. This could mean that they are forced to pay out extra money that cannot be reclaimed retrospectively, Mr OGrady said.
He said his party will be opposing the proposed increase and will present proposals to show where the 750,000 shortfall may be found without inflicting further financial pain on people who have already suffered years of austerity.
The council is set to discuss its 2017 budget which will increase from 295m to 306m. The document will most likely be approved as, apart from the rent increases, there are no other serious contentious issues.
The council is to allocate 500,000 to making more of its houses energy-efficient. This year, it has upgraded 1,621 of its housing stock.
Theres good news for the business sector, in that there are no plans to hike commercial rates.
In recent years, council bosses froze rates due to businesses struggling to recover from the economic crisis.
A special 500,000 grant has been proposed to aid the new Local Community Development Committees which has been set up by the local authority to manage LEADER funding.
The council is also expected to ratify putting 1.1m into its Economic Development Fund, used to aid start-up businesses and tourism projects and have been very successful in recent years. The fund is financed from 1% of the annual rates intake.
Meanwhile, 250,000 is due to be allocated to 11 civic amenity sites to help maintain the recycling service to the public.
The concern is part of a fear across the European Union, with reports from top EU terrorism officials of an increase in returning fighters in recent months, one that is expected to accelerate with the offensives against Mosul in Iraq and Raqqa in Syria.
There is certainly a fear, said one Irish security source, its a fear right across Europe, for all police and security forces.
The concerns follow the reported death last Friday week of well-known Irish radical Khalid Kelly, who was blown up by Iraqi forces as he was attempting to carry out a suicide bombing mission near Mosul.
His is the first known death of an Irish citizen in the region recent years and he is thought to be the first Irish suicide bomber for IS, who referred to him as Abu Usama al-Irlandi.
IS fan site claims (unconfirmed) this is the moment Khalid Kelly killed himself and several Iraqi militia.
I last saw him in Dublin in 2011 pic.twitter.com/CqlY3emQwT Philip Boucher-Hayes (@boucherhayes) November 5, 2016
Security sources here said they were still trying to confirm whether or not Kelly, a 50-year-old convert to Islam, is actually dead.
We are looking at that, but, given the nature of whats happening out there, it is very, very difficult, said one source.
As well as conducting checks abroad, they are trying to confirm his death through associates and family here.
Sources said that, given the profile of Kelly, they had been keeping track of his movements and confirmed he was in Ireland last March or April.
There were reports that, last March, he attended the deportation hearing here of a Jordanian man described by gardai as ISs foremost recruiter in Ireland.
Sources said they were examining the movements and communications of Kellys associates here, saying they were quite a small group.
Kelly was a person of interest for a long time for both the Gardas Security and Intelligence Section and the Counter-Terrorism International section of the Special Detective Unit.
He was investigated and arrested on a number of occasions in relation to both suspected terrorism offences and for incitement to hatred.
Despite files being submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions, he was not charged, let alone convicted, of a terrorism offence.
His death is thought to be the first known fatality of an Irish person in Syria or Iraq since four deaths in 2012 and 2013. Those deaths involved people in groups fighting the Assad dictatorship and were before the emergence of IS.
There could be other deaths we dont know about, said the security source.
There might be some people missing out there for one reason or another, they could be dead or alive.
It is not clear if Kelly is the first Irishman to die with IS.
The investigation comes at a time when European authorities and security experts have predicted the return of foreign fighters from Syria and Iraq given the assaults on IS territory.
The director of EUs police agency Europol said last month that flows of returning fighters had slightly increased in recent months.
Rob Wainwright said they were not yet in high numbers but added that maybe Mosul and Raqqa will change that.
More than 5,000 EU citizens have travelled there since 2011, including around 30 Irish people. The Irish figure includes those involved in humanitarian work in the region.
AS ORANGE Is The New Black looks to be set in the White House from January, we can only hope that the next commander in chief does not become known as President Pussygrabber.
Appropriately or rather, inappropriately his wife will be the first First Lady whose nude photo shoot (on a fur rug handcuffed to a briefcase in a private plane) to have appeared on the cover of a glossy magazine at the insistence of the president elect of the United States. In 2000, GQ ran the photos, because Donald Trump was very keen to display his then-girlfriend to the world. We were bombarded by requests to shoot Melania, GQ editor Dylan Jones told The Hollywood Reporter. Trump has referred to his wife as my supermodel, and has made it clear he considers her appearance her most important asset, which tallies with the reflected glory traits of narcissistic personality disorder; this was never clearer than when campaigning against his former rival Ted Cruz, whose wifes appearance he publicly insulted.
Some of the future First Ladys nude modelling work was shot by photographer Antoine Verglas, who also shot nudes of Carla Bruni Sarkozy, and with whom he compares Ms Trump, in that both are European ex models, both married presidents, and speak several languages Melania Trump speaks Slovenian, Serbian, English, French, and German. Unlike Bruni, however, she is not an heiress, but grew up in a Soviet era tower block in the former Yugoslavia. She was discovered in 1987 by the photographer Stane Jerko, and moved to Milan.
Melania Trump, and with Donald
Donald Trump has never been to Melanias home town of Sevnica. In 2002, he visited Slovenia for three hours on his Boeing to meet her parents, where they dined at the luxury Grand Hotel Toplice on Lake Bled, the dining room cleared of other diners, Melania acting as translator. On their way out, Trump is reported to have asked, Is this place for sale? At their wedding in 2005, there were just three other Slovenians present as well as the bride her parents Amelija and Viktor, and sister Ines.
Not a political being
Melanija Knavs, born in 1970 and a quarter century younger than her husband, will be the second immigrant First Lady since 1789 the last one was English born Louisa Adams, whose father was American, and who was in the White House between 1825 and 1829. Melania Trump has said that as First Lady, she will tackle cyberbullying, perhaps inspired by Michelle Obamas campaign to get the nation healthier; Ms Trump has found Ms Obama so inspirational that she recently plagiarised entire chunks of a speech made by the current First Lady. Her pledge to address cyberbullying once her huband takes office resulted in her immediately being called a hypocrite by Lady Gaga, who furiously criticised Melania Trumps support for her notorious bully husband.
Melania she long ago dropped the J did not play a significant part in her husbands election campaign as she is not an accomplished public speaker, and her strong Slovenian accent jars with Trumps virulent anti-immigration rhetoric. It would not be an overstatement to suggest that she is not a political being; she says she prefers to stay home with the couples 10-year-old son Barron. Other interests include Pilates and reading magazines. She is close in age to her husbands sons with Trumps first wife Ivana, another Eastern European former model.
The third Mrs Trump first turned her future husband down when he approached her in 1998 at a party during New York Fashion Week, and asked for her number. He had arrived with another woman a Norwegian heiress called Celina Midelfart (whose surname shall pass uncommented upon, despite trump being UK slang for fart).
Melania declined his early advances, but he persisted and they became engaged in 2004 when Trump proposed at the Costume Institute Gala. They married a year later, and she went to live in Trump Tower on Fifth Avenue, where, according to the New Yorker, guests are required to wear surgical booties so as not to scratch the marble flooring.
Melania Trump remains an enigmatically passive presence beside her husband, visual but not vocal; her role as an active future First Lady has largely been superseded by Trumps daughter Ivanka. Nor does she have a signature visual emblem, like her husbands strange hair and skin tone, Hillarys pantsuits, or Michelle Obamas famously toned arms. The only visual clue to perhaps a lurking sense of irony was the shirt she wore to the second presidential debate a pink pussy cat bow, just after her husbands notorious pussy grabbing comments.
Was this intentional? Who knows. If so, she has a degree of chutzpah previously unnoted.
When it comes to her marriage, Melania relies on a series of stock statements, such as We are both very independent. She has a skincare range that contain sturgeon eggs imagine rubbing caviar into your face and a jewellery line which she says she designs herself. She does not speak much about her country of origin, because she is from a communist background, a word which frightens a lot of Americans; although educated and apparently cultured, she barely speaks in public at all. Perhaps its because she cannot get a word in edgeways. We have four years to find out.
It concerns plankton, the multitude of mostly tiny organisms living in the oceans which are the basis of all marine life and from which, eons ago, all life on Earth evolved.
The plural noun plankton, comes from Greek meaning to drift. Most plankters are unable to swim against the current; they drift along with the flow. Tiny organisms, they live not only in the sea but also in rivers lakes and ponds. Even the great whales depend on them for sustenance.
Most are single-celled creatures, invisible to our eyes. Others are the larvae of crabs shrimps and fish. Jellyfish and krill are the top dogs of the plankton community. Out mindset has an in-built binary bias. We have two arms, legs, eyes, ears, lungs and kidneys, so its not surprising that we organise things into pairs; male and female, true or false, good and evil, Fianna Fail and Fine Gael.
The living world, we used to think, consists of two great kingdoms, one of plants, the other of animals. Everything living, it seemed, could be fitted into one or the other. Mushrooms were treated as plants until we realised they belonged to a vast and vital kingdom of fungi. Nor can bacteria and protozoans, which make their disturbing presence felt when we fall ill, be accommodated in a dual classification scheme. Scientists argue as to how many distinct kingdoms should be recognised.
Plankton image under a microscope.
Plankton, we thought, could also be understood in binary terms; there were only plant items and animal ones, phytoplankton and zooplankton.
Aditee Mitra, of Swansea University, believes that this approach is mistaken. The traditional split, she argues, is no longer tenable. Nor is this mere academic hair-splitting, angels on the head of a pin; there are important issues at stake here. As a result of the error, she thinks, even our climate change models could be giving questionable results.
Mitra wants to introduce a new model for life in our oceans. There is a third class of creatures, mixotrophs, which dont fit neatly into either the plant or animal plankton categories. Mixotrophs can use the energy of the sun to photosynthesise, the way phytoplankton does but, like zooplankton, they also devour tiny animals. Like humans, mixothrophs are omnivorous. Arthur C Clarke considered John Wyndhams 1951 novel, The Day of the Triffids, one of the 13 best science-fiction horror novels. Wyndhams triffids were fictional flesh-eating plants, able to grow to a huge size and move about. Bioengineered in the old USSR, they had escaped into the wild and were spreading throughout the world, with dire consequences for humanity. They sprayed poison on every creature they encountered, rendering their victims blind. Soon, almost the entire human race was affected.
Mixotrophs under micrscope.
Like Wyndhams fictional triffids, Mitra says mixothrops engulf living prey, suck out their innards, poison them, harpoon them, make them explode, steal and reuse body parts. They can destroy entire ecosystems in a matter of hours.
Devouring the sewage we dump into water-bodies, they produce toxins harmful to fish and molluscs. The brown foam of estuaries comes from mucus secreted by them. However, mixotrophs arent all bad. They provide food for young fish, especially during the summer months.
The mathematical models we use to predict environmental change, such as the effects of intensive fishing on ecosystems, may be flawed because we fail to take account of the presence of mixotrophs, that we now realise comprise more than half of all microscopic plankton.
Our climate-change models will be unsound until we do so. We ignore these little triffids at our peril.
If Noam Chomsky was right when he said, after George W Bush invaded Iraq in 2003, that America was the greatest threat to world peace, then that threat may have just increased twenty-fold.
Donald Trumps triumph creates a nightmarish scenario, one whose contours and repercussions we can only guess at. A loose cannon, a vain, unpredictable man, will soon occupy the Oval Office, pledging to put America first and make America great again.
It was left to Margaret Beckett, who became Britains first female foreign secretary in 2006, to tell it like it is last week on Sky News after Trumps election: He is a vile, horrible man, a man who constantly tells lies.
Thats the reality, and it is foolish to think that a stint in the White House will result in a character transplant not with a man as self-obsessed as the president-elect.
The one thing that was indisputably proven by the Trump-Clinton contest for the White House was that racism and misogyny are on the rise, and that rise seems certain to be accentuated now.
Thats on the domestic front, and the protests we have already witnessed in several American cities may be a portent of things to come. One of the factors fostered by the extremist rhetoric of the Trump campaign was white nationalism, which is essentially racist. Even 150 years after the end of the American Civil War which abolished slavery race is never far from the surface of American politics.
Worrying as all of that is, the far greater worry is in the field of foreign policy, where the potential for international conflict is acute. Today, American power and influence are being challenged on a scale that hasnt been seen since the end of the Cold War with the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and the break-up of the USSR.
There were warnings during the bitter presidential campaign about the risks of giving Trump control of the nuclear button outgoing president Barack Obama declared him unfit to be president but all of that went unheeded. And so last Thursday the president welcomed the president-elect to the White House.
Soon Trump will sit behind the desk in the Oval Office, and if political leaders elsewhere are concerned and uneasy, if not fearful, they have every reason to be. The foreign policy establishment in Washington DC and Trump will be at the centre of this has long been in thrall to the doctrine of manifest destiny. This is the deeply embedded belief in American exceptionalism, the conviction that the US is Gods own country.
The history of manifest destiny can be traced back to the pilgrims who arrived from England in the 17th century in ships such as the Mayflower to settle in the New World. On one such ship, the Arbella, as it approached the East coast of America in 1630, John Winthrop preached a sermon in which he proclaimed that the new community he and his fellow puritans were about to establish would become a shining city on a hill, watched by the whole world.
In his book, The Irony of Manifest Destiny: The Tragedy of Americas Foreign Policy, William Pfaff says that America from the start was assumed to be a fixed foundation, part of Gods fixed plan.
Basing a foreign policy agenda on a conviction that God is on your side is inherently dangerous (Bush believed God wanted him to invade Iraq a decision that has had catastrophic consequences, making it the worst American folly since the needless war in Vietnam).
According to the US imperial model that emerged in the 20th century, presidents were entitled to authorise aggressive international intervention even military pre-emption in order to eliminate obstacles to the Washington vision of the future.
Pfaff writes: The American conception of Manifest Destiny, originally seen as transcontinental expansion, has been recast since the time of Woodrow Wilson as the creation of a world order that is nominally pluralistic but under ultimate American leadership which, it is taken for granted, would be welcome to nearly all.
By the early 20th century, America had embraced a political ideology based on faith in universal human progress toward democracy, validating the superiority of American institutions, ideas, and practices.
The imperialism that this has bred was frighteningly expressed by after sanctioning the invasion of Iraq: We will export death and violence to the four corners of the earth in defence of our great nation.
As Pfaff, who was, like Chomsky, a stern critic of the USs imperial ways, emphasised, successive American presidents have consider it their right and duty to use all means to promote the American project to bring democracy to a recalcitrant world.
There is immense hypocrisy here, of course, because when democracy yields results (such as the election in a free vote of the Marxist Salvador Allende as president of Chile in 1970) which are deemed inimical to US interests, legitimately elected governments will be overthrown. (Allende was toppled by a CIA-backed coup in September 1973.) How a bombastic and unpredictable President Trump, a man with a suspect temperament and limited knowledge of international affairs, will accommodate himself is unclear. Even the broad outlines of a foreign policy could not be gleaned from anything that Trump said during the bitter contest waged between himself and Clinton.
But some of his statements such as declaring Nato to be obsolete and saying that the US may not come to the defence of the Baltic states if they are threatened by Russia have caused deep concern and fears in European capitals. One of those fears is that Trump may be an isolationist president. Already, Nato secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg has warned that going it alone is not an option for the US.
From the point of view of the Irish government, there is a concern about the new administrations commitment to the maintenance of peace and stability in the North.
The one thing that could be safely assumed about a Hillary Clinton-led administration is a continuity of commitment to the North. No such assumption can be made about a Trump administration.
We are all aware how important the American involvement was in promoting and supporting the process that led to the Good Friday Agreement of 1998; John Hume had been particularly assiduous in building Irish-American links on Capitol Hill and in the White House.
The Taoiseach and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Charlie Flanagan, have already made initial moves to open lines of communication with the president elect, but he will face such a crowded in-tray on entering the Oval Office that there is no way of knowing where Anglo-Irish affairs in general, and Northern Ireland, in particular, will figure on the Trump agenda.
Already, Theresa May and her team in Whitehall are concerned about the status of the special relationship that has been such an important part of the architecture of the world order since the end of the Second World War.
From a Dublin standpoint, moral revulsion must not stand in the way of establishing links with the Trump administration. Like it or not, he is going to be the next US president in January. Thats the reality and all European governments are going to live with it.
Michael Dias lauded the lessons his father Manuel, an immigrant from Portugal, taught him so youth can integrate instead of turning themselves into cannon fodder.
Under heavy security, President Francois Hollande unveiled a plaque outside the Stade de France in memory of Manuel Dias, pulling away a French flag covering it on a wall at one of the entrances to the French national stadium, where Dias was killed on November 13, 2015, by a suicide bomber.
Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo joined the president at six sites that were targeted in the attack on the French capital. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attacks.
Three teams of extremists coming from neighbouring Belgium targeted six bars and eateries, turning scenes of Friday night fun into bloodbaths.
A commemorative plaque unveiled by French President Francois Hollande and Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo at the La Belle Equipe bar and restaurant in Paris. Picture: Philippe Wojazer/AP
At the Stade de France, on the northern edge of Paris, Michael Dias said his father Manuel was living proof that integration is possible, necessary to end the madness of violence carried out by those who felt excluded.
Learning to live again after extremists killed his father was a personal challenge, but it concerns us all, Dias said, crediting his father, who came to France at 18, with life lessons like the need for education.
It is by knowledge, by intelligence that the children of tomorrow can stop humiliating themselves as cannon fodder in the service of criminal, mafia-style interests ... as is the case today. [They are] incapable of reflection, thinking about the world and expressing the unease and social exclusion they feel.
The final stop, the Bataclan concert hall which reopened Saturday with a concert by British pop star Sting was the site of the bloodiest and longest attack.
There, 90 people were killed by three attackers who also took a group hostage. The youngest and oldest victims of the night of horror were a 17-year-old and a 68-year-old both killed at the Bataclan.
Families of victims, security and rescue forces, and some still trying to heal were among those present at the ceremonies. JesseHughes of the Eagles of Death Metal, the California band whose concert that night ended in a bloodbath, paid respects at the Bataclan ceremony, placing his hand on his heart as he departed.
In addition to those killed, nine people remain hospitalised from the attacks and others are paralysed. The government says more than 600 people are still receiving psychological treatment after the attacks.
A sign scrawled and posted near the Bataclan, Love for all, hate for no one, captured the sense of defiance shared by many but not all. Some residents of the lively neighborhood where most of the attacks occurred are still trying to heal.
We always have this fear that weighs heavily in our hearts. We always try to be careful. And every time we pass by, we think of them, Sabrina Nedjadi said.
People console each other at a ceremony at the Bataclan concert hall in Paris yesterday. Picture: Michel Euler/AP
Soubida Arhoui said fear is now part of her life.
I am afraid for my children, when they take the Metro. When my son goes to work, I am afraid. When I get into a Metro I am afraid.
The remembrances come after the Sting concert on Saturday night that reopened the refurbished Bataclan concert hall.
Sting, in a T-shirt with a guitar slung over his shoulder, asked concert-goers in fluent French to observe a minute of silence as he opened the show.
Weve got two important things to do tonight, the 65 -year-old singer said.
First, to remember and honour those who lost their lives in the attacks ... and to celebrate the life and the music of this historic venue.
Bataclan claims it turned away band frontman
- Catherine Whylie
Eagles of Death Metal frontman Jesse Hughes was turned away from Stings concert at the Bataclan, according to the venues management who said he was not welcome.
The US rock band were performing in the Paris theatre on November 13 last year when it was attacked by Islamic extremist suicide bombers who killed 89 people.
In the months after the massacre Hughes provoked anger when he suggested Bataclan security staff were complicit in the attack and later apologised.
On the eve of the first anniversary of the atrocity, former Police frontman Sting, 65, re-opened the 150-year-old venue and Hughes was not allowed in, the Bataclan boss said.
However a representative for the band reportedly branded the venues version of events as false.
Jules Frutos, manager of the theatre, said Hughes and his manager were turned away at the door.
Jesse Hughes at a concert in February with a T-shirt that reads I really wanna be in Paris. Picture: Jean-Nicolas Guillo/Le Parisien via AP)
Mr Frutos said: They tried to enter the venue and they are persona non grata. They are not welcome after what he said about the security.
Referring to Hughes, Mr Frutos said: Even if he came back on what he said. I mean, this man is just sick. Thats all.
Mr Frutos said he thinks the band used what happened at the Bataclan to get promotion, asking: Who did know about this band before?
He said the bands attitude shows no respect for the victims. Mr Frutos said the frontman and his manager did not have tickets for Stings concert.
The bands management said Hughes was in Paris with family, friends and fans to commemorate the tragic loss of life that happened right in front of his eyes during his show.
Marc Pollack, of The MGMT Company, accused Mr Frutos of tainting a wonderful opportunity that couldve been used to spread peace and love.
Jesse never even tried entering the club for Stings show tonight, he said.
Earlier this year Hughes apologised for suggesting that security guards were complicit in the attack.
He told the Fox News in March that six guards at the Bataclan never came to work on the night of the attack, and it seems rather obvious that they had a reason not to show up.
Afterwards in a statement, he said: I humbly beg forgiveness from the people of France, the staff and security of the Bataclan, my fans, family, friends and anyone offended by the absurd accusations I made.
My suggestions that anyone affiliated with the Bataclan played a role in the events are unfounded and baseless and I take full responsibility for them.
This is not about Donald Trump. Isnt that good news? Nationally and internationally, I figure were trumped out. Never has more space in mainstream and social media been devoted to anything. Never have more tears been wept, more dire prognostications prognosticated, more analysis devoted to the inexplicable. Although, on the tears, maybe the demise of Princess Diana occasioned as many as has the US presidential election victory of The Donald. Floods, there were, back then. A tsunami of bawling and a glut of garage flowers. Things would never be the same again, they said, through their gulping sobs. Never.
And you know what? Things were exactly and precisely the same after Princess Di died as they were before. Things have a marvellous capacity not to live up to dire prophecies of radical change. Entropy terrifies, and thats behind the Trump reaction. But it also motivates. People recreate order out of chaos and, if the wind is in the right direction and the force is with us, well all be grand, even if the orange guy with the hair is in the White House.
That said, so many people were so upset about Hillary Clintons loss that when a friend broke down at the beginning of a phone call last week, following the statement that I cant take any more of this, I assumed his emotion was politically generated, although I was surprised, never having expected him to be that sentimentally attached to the idea of another Clinton presidency. As he gathered himself together, I went into overdrive trying to work out if the financial health of his business was likely to come under threat from the new US administration. Im still not over learning that the Fairy Doors company has been so challenged by the currency shift consequent on the Brexit decision that if they werent now exporting fairy doors to stick on trees to half the world, theyd be broke. Fairy Doors have been one of the export success stories of the recession. Id love to have been a fly on the wall when the Fairy Doors entrepreneurs were explaining to the bank why it would be good to give them money for something no market research had ever established the need for.
However, in the case of my sad friend, it turned out, as his sobs reduced, that his problem is with his father, who is 87 and no longer the full shilling. His father is pretty close to the full shilling, but inevitably has lost some of his capacities as he has aged, and is considerably less mobile. Being less mobile means that he can no longer drive his car, and one of the problems about lifelong drivers in their old age is that they first of all hate the very idea of calling a taxi, then dont understand apps like Hailo, and finally experience the regulated charges as threateningly expensive. My friends father, accordingly, is housebound. This, in turn, means he spends his time watching television and gets fearful about gang warfare although, in the scheme of things, neither the Kinahans nor the Hutches present an immediate threat to him, personally. But the reality is that the people who consume most TV because theyre not able to go out and interact with the world, tend to be most fearful of the world.
In the past, this man was a reader, particularly of sports pages. Although his son points out that the delivery to his home of the newspaper wouldnt be a problem, the older man isnt able for nipping down the stairs to the front door at an early hour to grab the paper. The HSE home care person doesnt come until 9am and hes wary of getting out of bed without a steadying hand. Although the elderly man is computer-literate, his son has found that logging on to his iPhone and iPad is now beyond him, and so the two gadgets sit, mutely unhelpful, beside his bed, fully charged and impotent.
It was, in fact, the iPhone that caused my friends meltdown. Since his only sister lives in New Zealand, phone contact with her requires a certain amount of scheduling, and the son had arranged to be with his father to facilitate the call on this particular day. His widowed father sat in the chair the son had bought one of those enormous leather contraptions that, at the command of a button, decants the sitter onto the floor. His son, mindful of the need to help his fathers continued autonomy, suggested it was time to ring Marnie. Absolutely, said the father, and set about it with a will. He even remembered the multiple digits involved. The only problem was that accurately keying the digits for New Zealand into the remote control for the TV doesnt tend to be productive, as his son pointed out.
Well, why did you let me make that mistake? the elderly man asked, and his son got good and mad. Words borrowed words, with the son pointing out that he got no thanks for all he did for his father, while the fathers pet was Marnie, the sister who had buzzed off to New Zealand (where, we assume, she was scrutinising her phone waiting for a call from home) and was doing nothing for her da. Her da told his son he didnt need anything done for him. Furthermore, he opined, the son had always been a moany, put-upon whinge and why didnt he take himself off because he was of no value sitting on his arse being critical.
The major issue, the son says, is that his father is so ungrateful. The son is there every evening, takes care of everything, because its difficult for someone in New Zealand to rustle up, on demand, haute cuisine such as baked beans on toast. And is the father grateful? No.
The only unusual aspect of my friends problem is that hes male, since I would unscientifically believe that roughly 90% of those taking care of aging parents are female, but his situation is replicated all over the country. Its an oddity of modern life that we educate young people in what will get them CAO points. We educate the workforce in skills ranging from presentation to managing change. Increasingly, we educate everybody on the need to do something about their pension to prevent them begging in the street in their seventies. Further, we vaccinate them against everything from whooping cough to shingles, in order to protect against possible biological threat. Air travellers are subjected, on each and every journey, to advice on what to do in the unlikely event of the plane going down. We have call centres with trained counsellors waiting to help anybody whose toddler or teenager is being a bother.
The one thing we dont educate ourselves about is the inevitability of having to cope with the ageing process of ourselves and those around us. Its the ultimate delusional behaviour. We know its coming. We decide its not going to apply to us. So when it does, were surprised and incompetent in the fact of the certain challenge of age.
The one thing we dont educate ourselves about is the inevitability of having to cope with the ageing process
Monday
Central Board of Education
The Central Board of Education meets at 5:30 p.m. in the Central High School auditorium located at 116 Rebel Dr. in Park Hills. The meeting is open to the public.
Bonne Terre Council
The Bonne Terre City Council will meet in regular session at 6 p.m. at city hall located on 118 N. Allen St. The meeting is open to the public.
Desloge Board of Aldermen
The Desloge Board of Aldermen meet in regular session at 7 p.m. in city hall, located at 300 N. Lincoln. The meeting is open to the public.
Tuesday
Park Hills-Leadington Chamber of Commerce
The Park Hills-Leadington Chamber of Commerce meets at noon at The Coffee Grill, located at 3413 Rosener Rd. in Park Hills, for its monthly Investor Luncheon.
Park Hills City Council
The Park Hills City Council meets at 6 p.m. for a regular session in the municipal court chambers at city hall, located at 9 Bennett St. The meeting is open to the public.
Leadington Board of Aldermen
The Leadington Board of Aldermen meets in regular session at 6 p.m. at city hall, located at 12 Weir St. The meeting is open to the public.
Farmington R-7 Board
The Farmington R-7 Board of Education meets in regular session at 5 p.m. at the district offices, located at 1022 Ste. Genevieve Ave. The meeting is open to the public.
North County Board of Education
The North County Board of Education meets in regular session at 6 p.m. in the administration offices located at 300 Berry Rd. The meeting is open to the public.
Thursday
West County Board of Education
The West County Board of Education meets at 6 p.m. for a regular session in the Board of Education room located at 1124 Main St. in Leadwood. The meeting is open to the public.
Bismarck Board of Education
The Bismarck Board of Education meets in regular session at 6 p.m. in the elementary school library. The meeting is open to the public.
Burma Weekend Clashes in Northern Arakan State Leave at Least 27 Dead
Violence escalated in northern Arakan State over the weekend. Troops involved in the ongoing security operation in the area are seen on Oct 15. / Hein Htet / The Irrawaddy
The government reported on Monday that at least 27 people died in weekend clashes between the security forces and militants in northern Arakan State, in the latest escalation of a month-long conflict in the area.
On Saturday, security forces were ambushed by about 60 attackers holding guns, knives and spears in a village in Maungdaw Township, the government said in a statement. One soldier and six attackers were killed.
An officer died following a later confrontation with around 500 armed men in which the army called in air force helicopters.
During a clearance operation at Dargyizartaung village in the same township on Sunday, around 20 men armed with machetes and wooden clubs were fired on by security forces, killing 19, state media said.
A number of members of the advisory commission on Arakan State led by former UN secretary-general Kofi Annan were due to make a two-day visit to the restive region starting on November 15, but the visits timing was being reconsidered in the wake of the weekend violence, commission member Alhaj U Aye Lwin told The Irrawaddy on Monday.
The members intended to meet with leaders from all communities as well as religious heads in the area, Alhaj U Aye Lwin said, following instructions from Kofi Annan to listen and learn from different voices in the troubled region.
We want to observe the situation on the ground as eyewitnesses, he added.
Meanwhile Human Rights Watch released satellite images on Saturday that appear to show 430 burnt buildings in three Muslim Rohingya villages in northern Maungdaw Township. The images were taken between 22 October and 10 November.
Human Rights Watchcalled for unfettered access to the area that has been under military lockdown since October 9 for the UN, media and human rights monitors. Allegations of serious human rights abuses against the local population, including the rape of women and the burning of homes have been widely reported since the security operation began.
New satellite images not only confirm the widespread destruction of Rohingya villages but show that it was even greater than we first thought, said Brad Adams, director at Human Rights Watch.
Army-run media on Monday claimed that militants were deliberately burning buildings.
Burma is obligated under international law to conduct thorough, prompt, and impartial investigations of alleged human rights violations, prosecute those responsible, and provide adequate redress for victims of violations, Human Rights Watch said.
On Friday the UNs special representative on sexual violence in conflict called on Burma to investigate allegations of sexual assault by security forces.
Zainab Hawa Bangura added that it was essential for the government to allow humanitarian access to the area.
The UNs childrens organization said last week that the conflict was taking a terrible toll on children already suffering high levels of deprivation and malnutrition. It called for a full resumption of services in northern ArakanState as well as the lifting of restrictions on access for health and other professionals.
Monday, November 14th, 2016 (8:01 am) - Score 5,239
Internet provider Plusnet has today announced that theyre finally adding a 4G based Mobile service to their portfolio of broadband, phone and TV products, which will be born out of the acquisition of LIFE Mobiles customer base on 29th November 2016.
The move into mobile is hardly a surprise given that their parent, BT, recently merged with mobile network operator EE for 12.5bn. Similarly LIFE Mobile is also a part of the EE business and clearly some sort of deal has been worked out to support their transfer into Plusnets hands.
The LIFE Mobile website currently has a related FAQ Page online, although it doesnt shed much light on the development except to confirm that existing customers will be offered an optional range of new 4G plans under the new Plusnet Mobile brand. Weve also found the T&Cs for Plusnet Mobile, but the products arent yet showing on their main public website.
LIFE Mobile FAQ Page (Extract) Why are LIFE and Plusnet joining up? LIFE Mobile have joined forces with Plusnet to make sure that our customers continue to get great value tariffs along with award-winning customer service. Weve worked together to make fantastic 4G plans which will be available to you. Plus youll have access to more great value products and special offers well tell you more about these over the coming weeks. What does this mean for my contract? On 29th November, youll officially become a Plusnet Mobile customer and your contract will be transferred to Plusnet plc from EE Limited trading as LIFE Mobile. All this means is youll pay Plusnet Mobile instead of LIFE Mobile and all the services you get will be provided by Plusnet. Weve also worked with Plusnet to create simple, easy to understand terms and conditions. We both wanted to give you as much notice of these as possible, so these wont take effect until 1st January but a copy is available here. Will I need to do anything on 29th November? Theres nothing that you need to do. The switchover will be seamless! On 29th November, your mobile service will continue as normal and youll still be able to make and receive calls, send texts and browse the web. The only changes youll see are the network carrier name changing on your mobile from LIFE Mobile to Plusnet, and emails about your account coming from Plusnet Mobile instead of LIFE.
Upon closer inspection weve been able to find a pre-registration page for the new service, which lists a pre-launch special offer tariff that promotes 4GB of data with unlimited minutes / texts for 10 per month (normally 15) on a 30 day contract. The full list of plans is as follows.
Plusnet 4G Mobile Plans (30 Day Contract) 500MB + 250 Mins + 500 Texts = 5 per month 1GB + 1000 Mins + Unlimited Texts = 7.50 per month 2GB + 1500 Mins + Unlimited Texts = 10 per month 4GB + Unlimited Mins + Unlimited Texts = 15 per month
The above 4GB special offer plan appears to sit roughly in the middle of BTMobiles own 2GB and 15GB plans (note: currently BTs 2GB plan is being offered with 4GB of data to existing broadband customers for 10 per month, or 15 to everybody else). Mind you its a shame that Plusnet havent included any plans with bigger data allowances, which may be more attractive to users of a home broadband ISP like Plusnet.
Andy Baker, CEO of Plusnet, said: This is an incredibly exciting moment in our companys history. True to our Yorkshire roots, Plusnet has always prided itself on offering customers more for less, and extending our offering to include a mobile service is a natural next step as we move to become a full-service quad-play provider. With the launch of Plusnet Mobile, well be helping more people stay connected on-the-go with our fantastic data-packed deals and highly competitive rates.
The BT owned ISP recently reported a record profit after tax of 43.5 million (up 35% on last year) and a 13% growth in customer numbers, which is despite having a semi-rocky year of network migration woes and some issue with waiting times for telephone support. Plusnet is now home to 1,000 staff in Sheffield and another 200 in Leeds.
In separate news Plusnets trial of IPv6 has been stalled after the provider informed customers that they were in the process of decommissioning the old AG gateways (e.g. pcl-ag01, ptw-ag02), which is occurring as part of the process for relocating a lot of their old broadband infrastructure/handover to new data centres.
Sadly, this means the IPv6 trial accounts we dished out back in 2013 are going to break. Youll still be able to use them for IPv4, but its unlikely IPv6 is going to work properly until we get the opportunity to revisit the v6 config on the relocated BNGs, said Plusnets Bob Pullen (here). The ISP has yet to make any firm commitment to IPv6, but theyll probably want to get the network migration work completed first.
Title: Outstanding
Time With Provider:
Package Name:
Have been on Gigaclear FTTP fibre for over two years. Two fibre lines for resilience. Four networked computers, two smart phones, two smart TVs, home automation, Sonus, Webcam, Skype, Vonage telephone line.Quality - OutstandingReliability - exceptionalSpeed - breathtaking and asymmetricCost - Outstanding value for the speed-900+MbsA company to be admired for delivering what it promises. It puts BT to shame.
The exact release date for the upcoming "One Punch Man" season two has not yet been confirmed but the fans are definitely willing to wait. Prior to its upcoming release, there have been reports that the upcoming season will reveal that the one who killed Saitama's family is Amai Mask.
Amai mask To Be Responsible For The Death Of Saitama's Family Prior To Becoming Hero?
Saitama has had a difficult childhood, as many of its fans already know. However, he managed to get up from all the pain, and trained for years to become the hero that he wanted to be as a child. Saitama's training was extensive and thus developing eminent strength, making him able to defeat any opponent that he comes across. However, there is a lot of pain behind all the strength being presented in battles.
There have been reports that Saitama's backstory will be tackled in the upcoming season two of "One Punch Man" and this includes his family's death. He lost his family as a child and recent theories and speculations have revealed that Amai Mask is the one responsible for this and it is yet to be discussed when the famous anime returns. Since they are currently on hiatus, there is no way to know for sure about its upcoming plotline unless any confirmation or official synopsis is yet to be revealed by the network.
New Villains And Stronger Opponents Coming To Battle Saitama In Upcoming "One Punch Man" Season 2
Other allegations also cover the news that there will be a new opponent coming to battle Saitama in "One Punch Man" season two, the Hero Hunter Arc. He will reportedly be stronger than Lord Boros, whom Saitama recently defeated during the finale of the previous season. Another will also be a Garou known as the Human Monster and will be the main antagonist of Saitama as the series progresses. Saitama will be facing a lot of enemies in the upcoming season and will reportedly be a more action-packed season than the previous one.
The network and the production team is yet to announce the official release of the "One Punch Man" season two in 2017.
Angelina Jolie is having a little bit of a bumpy ride with keeping her "children happy" after moving out of their conjugal house with Brad Pitt. The former couple's children are reportedly "homesick" and wanted to be on Pitt's side as well.
According to reports from HollywoodLife, the couple's children told the 41-year-old actress that they wanted to move back to Los Feliz as they miss home.
Angelina Jolie Struggling To Keep Kids Happy
"It's been weeks since the kids moved out of their home and they are getting homesick. The children are sad, miss the huge house they grew up in, and have been complaining to Angelina that they want to go home. The older children are not happy with the situation while the younger kids are having trouble understanding why they can't just go home."
"The Los Feliz home has been where the kids have spent most of their time growing up," the source said.
"Brad has built a huge skate ramp for the kids on the property and they all have their own rooms there too. They may have lots of houses but the Los Feliz house has always been home."
Meanwhile, Jolie's separated father Jon Voight has said that he wants things to solve the issues between his daughter and Pitt, whom he believed to be close with and would listen to him.
Thinking Twice On Brad Pitt And Angelina Jolie Going Separate Ways?
"I appreciate everybody's concern and their prayers. Hopefully things will work out," the 77-year-old actor told E! News during the premiere of J.K. Rowling's Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them on Thursday.
The "Original Sin" actress filed for divorce from the iconic star on 19 September, citing conflicting differences. The former couple have six children who is now in deep stress and confusion - Maddox 15, Pax, 12, Zahara, 11, Shiloh, 10, and twins Knox and Vivienne, 8.
Would Mr. & Mrs. Smith end their story and let their kids suffer?
Swiss company Protonmail announced that weekly sing-ups had doubled after the Republican candidate Donald Trump get elected as the U.S. president on Tuesday since many Americans are fearing for their privacy after many situations involving the government and U.S. intelligence agencies with monitoring private information. This way, people might start to use end-to-end encrypted emails as never before.
The Encrypted Email Company Warned That Trump Might Take Control Of The NSA
According to Digital Trends, the company stated that its only mission was to provide the safest email services to the users, following the Swiss policy of neutrality and not taking any kind of position of the new president. However, it also explained that Trump could take control of the National Security Agency (NSA), claiming that this might represent a huge threat for peoples privacy since the president will also count with the GOPs control of Congress.
This company has been known for being one of the largest end-to-end encrypted email providers in the world, which was targeted by DDoS cyber strike last year, which represented a very delicate situation for its users. The most particular detail about Protonmail is that its costs of service are covered by crowdfunding and donations from foundations, which makes the company more independent of private interests.
Liberal and Conservatives Are Using Protomail
According to The Verge, the high number of new sign-ups could have started because ad-supported companies like Facebook and Google have scaled back their data collection, considering the threat posed by Trump. The encrypted email provider has previously said that privacy is an important right that needs to be protected and offered to every single person, instead of being only a luxury for liberals or conservatives.
In fact, the company has confessed that even when left-wing users are the majority of the new sign.-ups, Protonmail has always provided its service for people of any different political stance. Although it is not known if the incoming president would actually control the NSA, it is fact that were living during times where privacy has become a miracle.
Google is betting on voice-powered devices as the only way we'll be computing in the near future.
The Future Of Computing
According to Business Insider, Google Venture investor M.G. Siegler says that the use of artificial intelligence-powered devices like Google Assistant and Amazon Echo shows where the tech industry is headed. Most users might still feel a bit strange talking to a computer, but this futuristic artificial intelligence (AI) technology is fast becoming the norm. According to Siegler, it might take a while for older generations to adapt, but for younger generations and kids with an Amazon Echo, talking to Alexa "it's like their favorite thing in the world."
Siegler compared this emerging technology of voice-powered computing to the rise of using mobile devices. Computer technology originally started with a mainframe server. The miniaturization process allowed to later become a desktop computer, then a laptop and eventually a mobile phone.
Siegler said that the way we now interact with computers is not really natural. When we communicate with one another we talk. Computer user interface should evolve from typing and taping on a screen to using voice-powered devices and talking to computers. This is an inevitable process and investing in this kind of voice-powered technology is a question of timing.
With its new hardware products, Google's parent company Alphabet is already betting heavily on the verbal computing. In October, the company unveiled its Google Home device, first hardware device to incorporate the company's new digital Assistant. The Assistant is powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and responds to user's voice, much like Amazon's Alexa. The Google Assistant is also available on company's Allo chat app and new Pixel phone.
Personal Assistants Market
According to Forbes, the market for personal assistants that provide conversational user experience is becoming highly competitive. While Amazon has launched its next generation Echo Tap and Echo Dot, Google is aiming to make a smarter Assistant.
According to Google, developers will have the possibility to create for Google Assistant starting December, similar of developing Alexa Skills for Echo. Google will instantly open up multiple channels to developers by enabling them to target its Assistant platform Google. By using a variety of devices with embedded Assistant technology, developers will be able to reach millions of consumers.
In case of Microsoft's personal assistant Cortana, the APIs are not broadly available. This means that for developers targeting Windows platform their reach is limited.
Google has a multi-pronged approach when it comes to winning the niche personal assistant segment. The high-tech company is counting on all its assets in order to ensure that it creates superior technology to the competition.
Google Cloud Machine Learning
According to Google's product page, its Cloud Platform comes with a broad mix of services and machine learning tools. They range from speech recognition to image processing and text analysis. For Google machine learning is certainly its strength.
Developers will be able to instantly perform entity, sentiment and syntactic analysis by sending plain text to Cloud machine learning. Those developers targeting global audience will benefit by Google's support for multiple languages, including some of the Asian languages such as Chinese.
Some people who are distraught of the US election outcome are blaming Facebook for its role. The tech company has billions of users worldwide and millions in the US. Naturally, it's a good platform to reach out to a wide audience.
Facebook is currently alleged to have influenced the election result. Thus, eventually making Donald J. Trump the winner. CEO Mark Zuckerberg comes to the company's defense.
Zuckerberg's Defense Against Some People's Accusations
Zuckerberg went to Facebook and defended the tech giant's position with regards to the US election. He insisted that more than 99 percent of all Facebook news content is authentic. Zuckerberg added that the remaining percentage is the fake news and hoaxes.
This very small figure would unlikely change the outcome of the election in another direction. Apparently, people are specifically blaming fake news and hoaxes for propelling Trump into the US Presidency.
Is The Claim Unfounded?
There is not any study to back this claim of Facebook's played part in the election. Facebook is not exactly transparent of how much of its ad revenue actually comes from political advertising or news promotion, according to the TechCrunch. People don't exactly have the data for their claim.
In fact, exit polls would not be able to show how much the social media platform affected the voter's decision. Zuckerberg's statement will not necessarily stop such allegations.
Facebook Is Not Doing Much With Fake News And Hoaxes
Facebook users can be involved with flagging fake news and hoaxes. The management rely on them to filter through the credible ones to those that are not. Facebook can only do so much. However, the company does have the means to improve the way they handle information shared on their News Feed.
Google has previously done a better job in the fact-checking of new articles in their feed. This does not seem to be Facebook's priority. The issue of fake news and hoaxes will not be resolved anytime soon. Zuckerberg said that they must proceed very carefully with this area.
The famous Japanese filmmaker, Hayao Miyazaki has revealed that he has come to a decision to suddenly step out of his retirement since 2013 after being inspired to work on and complete a new Japanese animated movie that can be compared to his previous works.
Hayao Miyazaki recently went on a special broadcast titled, Owaranai Hito Miyazaki Hayao, translated as The Man Who Is Not Done: Hayao Miyazaki. The said special, which ran for 10 minutes, was aired by NHK TV on Nov. 13. It is the first exclusive interview with Hayao Miyazaki in two years.
The special focused on the making of his new CG animation short titled, Kemushi no Boro or Boro the Caterpillar. He also opened up in the interview about his struggles working with CG animation for the first time in his 50-year career. He then stated that he will continue making animated shorts for the Studio Ghibli Museum located in Tokyo.
Working on Boro the Caterpillar, Miyazaki realized that he was not satisfied with it just being a short animation. In August 2016, he submitted the said animated short for project proposal as a new feature-length film. A story of a tiny, hairy caterpillar, so tiny that it may be easily squished between your fingers, Miyazaki described vaguely when he was asked about the story of the animated short film.
Miyazaki has been amazingly working on the story of the 12-minute animated short for 20 years now. Though the project proposal for a full movie has not yet been approved, he went on ahead anyway to work on the story and the animation. He is planning to create a storyboard that will consist at least 100 cuts of footage.
Miyazaki has been working in animation since 1963 and founded Studio Ghibli in 1985 with Toshio Suzuki, Isao Takahata, and Yasuyoshi Tokuma. He was responsible for countless successful classics such as Spirited Away and Howls Moving Castle. His new work, Boro the Caterpillar will most likely be aired late 2017 and will be exclusively screened at the Studio Ghibli Museum.
Country
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 Bahamas, Commonwealth of the 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 Canada 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 Cuba, Republic of Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Dominican Republic 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 Haiti, 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 Jamaica 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 Mexico, United Mexican States 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 US Virgin Islands Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland United States Minor Outlying Islands United States of America Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe
Huawei has been successful with its latest releases particularly the P9 but that hasn't stopped rumors about its next flagship phone - the P10 - from circulating.
Specifications
The GFXBench benchmark test on the Huawei P10 was revealed and if this is true, the new smartphone from the Chinese tech company will be even better then the popular P9.
It has been confirmed that the P10 will have the Kirin 960. As for the operating system, the P10 will most probably have the latest Android OS, the 7.0 Nougat. It may come pre-installed with the company's EMUI skin.
The P10 will have a 5.5-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 2560 x 1440. The chipset, as indicated in the leaked benchmark test, is the Kirin 960 with an octa-core HiSilicon Hi3660 2.3GHz CPU and Mali G-71 GPU. It will have 6GB of RAM and 256GB internal memory.
Other rumored specs include a 12MP rear camera and an 8MP camera at the front for video chats and selfies. There is no word yet whether the main camera will have a dual lens like the P10's predecessor. However, it is likely that the next flagship will utilize that feature.
Release Date
Tech Radar reports that a specific date of release hasn't been announced yet though some estimate the release to be sometime in mid-2017. Phone Arena suspects the release will be either March or April next year.
Reports indicate that the flagship phone's predecessor - the P9 - has been impressive since it was released in April of this year. A total of 9 million P9s have been sold since they became available.
One of the P9's deal breakers is the 12MP rear camera. The phone's main camera was made Leica which says so much about its quality. Aside from the high-quality camera, the P9 also had the Kirin 955 chipset, 3GB of RAM, 32GB internal storage, and a fingerprint scanner.
Huawei recently unveiled its latest phablet - the Mate 9. The flagship device will come in two variants, the regular one and the Porsche Design Mate 9. Before that, the company also announced its new wearable device called the Huawei Fit.
The next smartphone that the giant tech company will introduce will be released in 2017, the iPhone's 10th year anniversary. Surely, Apple will come up with something big.
Apple is known for pushing the envelope and the rumored iPhone 8 will definitely be no different. However, some quarters are not sure if the next release will indeed be called the iPhone 8 or the iPhone 7s. Whatever its moniker may be, one thing is for sure, Apple will make up for the iPhone 7, which some consider underwhelming.
Specifications
Forbes indicated that the rumored smartphone will sport a 5.8-inch curved AMOLED display making it one of the biggest iPhones yet. The display is also rumored to have no home button or bezels. According to rumors, Apple is working closely with Sharp to develop the OLED screen for the iPhone 8.
The iPhone 8 will also have a curved back according to rumors. Another says the casing will be made of glass though a metal frame may be necessary.
Release Date
Many are letting their gut instinct tell them when the next iPhone will be released. They are also looking at tradition. Apple traditionally releases a new device sometime in September.
The only gadget from Apple that did not drop on the month of September was the iPhone SE. Since the 2012 release of the iPhone 5, every device came out during the said month proving that the company likes to stick to what it is used to, at least in that regard.
As a matter of fact, most of these Apple devices were released on the same date or range of dates. The iPhone 7 came out on Sept. 7 while the iPhone 6 and 6s were released on Sept. 9.
Tech Radar is guessing that the iPhone 8 will be launched on the first or second week of September and will hit the stores in not more than two weeks after.
The rumored iPhone will probably go head-to-head with Samsung's rumored Galaxy 8.
A filed patent revealed that Samsung is creating a smartphone that would look like an elongated slab that has an intriguing automatic hinge that looks similar to Microsoft's Surface Book. As noted by Phone Area, it was more detailed than anything they've seen from Samsung, concluding that Galaxy X might be nearing the end of its development stages.
Release Date
Despite all the news, rumors, regarding its release in spring this year along with its flagship device, the Galaxy S8 smartphone has been downplayed by a Korean publication that has reconfirmed that the launch for the Galaxy X is still in question after the company is having second thoughts on releasing the said smartphone. A tip from a supply chain speculated that Samsung Galaxy Note 7 mishaps, Samsung Electronics has taken a cautious approach to releasing statements regarding the hardware of the new products.
The Design
According to a report from Sammobile, a patent application reveals a number of renders and illustrates the smartphones hinge from a number of angles. Check out the latest photos below.
The Camera
As per TNI, the new family member X will be enchanted with an impressive camera and cutting edge display. As per a report from a Chinese blog named Wccftech, the Samsung companys next flagship will enrich AMOLED screen. It will encase resolution of 4K (2160 x 3840), plus a dual rear-facing camera module. The dual rear facing snapper is not a surprise in the package, as all new premium smartphones are enchanted with this feature.
"The Young and Restless" head writer Sally Sussman revealed that Adam Newman might not return after all. Sussman plans to make major changes to the plotline involving Christian Newman's paternity and it may not be what fans have been expecting all along. She also made it clear that Justin Hartley will not be back on the CBS show, although there is no word yet if there is a chance for Michael Muhney's return.
"The Young And The Restless" Spoilers
Over the past weeks, "The Young and the Restless" has been focusing on one vital plotline - Christian Newman's parentage. This is one of the reasons why there has been much talk that Adam Newman is slated for a return since he is vital to this plot. However, the head writer for the daytime soap made it clear in an interview that "for all intents and purposes," Nick is Christian's father.
Sussman also revealed that Adam would not be back on the show unless there is a compelling need for him to do so. She added that Nick can stay blinded to Christian's parentage since there are no plans for a recast at the moment. She also made it clear that Justin Hartley, the last actor to portray Adam Newman, will not be back on the soap. Given these circumstances, a paternity reveal may not happen anytime soon.
Michael Muhney's Expected Return
Although Sussman has been clear on where she stands about Adam Newman's character, there are some fans who are hopeful that Muhney will be back on "The Young and the Restless." There are rumors that CBS and Muhney reached an understanding after the actor was featured on "CBS Soaps in Depth."
The last time that Muhney was mentioned in the house organ is back in 2014 when he was still part of Y&R. There were numerous controversies involving his departure since the actor was purportedly involved in a groping incident, although there has been no official statement from the network or from Muhney's camp.
At the moment, there is no official announcement yet about any recasting plans for Adam Newman's character. At the same time, Sussman does not have any intention of pursuing the plotline involving an off- cam character. Thus, it is unlikely that Justin Hartley, Michael Muhney, or any other fan favorite will be back as Adam Newman in "The Young and the Restless."
ITU-GS-MR-MainContent
ITU Telecom World 2016 today launched proceedings, welcoming influential participants from public and private sectors and across the ICT industry, including SMEs, from around the world.
Proceedings began with the Opening Ceremony, in the presence of H.R.H Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, Kingdom of Thailand, Chan-o-cha Prayut, Prime Minister, Kingdom of Thailand and Houlin Zhao, Secretary-General, International Telecommunication Union.
Addressing an audience of event participants and special guests which included Heads of State and Ministers, Heads of UN Agencies, Regulators and industry leaders (in order of speaking), Chan-o-cha Prayut, Prime Minister, Kingdom of Thailand outlined key components of the event, including highlights of the Thailand Pavilion and the Event's core focus on collaboration, the digital economy and SMEs, noting the "Thai government and ITU have placed emphasis on the cooperation of entrepreneurs, SMEs and start-up groups."
Acknowledging his appreciation for H.R.H Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn's most valuable and committed support for ICTs, in particular for social development, ITU Secretary-General, Houlin Zhao noted Thailand's remarkable progress in ICT developments. Mr. Zhao extended his sincere condolences to the Royal family and the Thai people and voiced his hope that the event, with its focus on development through the digital economy, will in some small way be able to contribute to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej's work and legacy.
H.R.H Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn officially opened the Event, noting how it offers "investment opportunities for SMEs and start-ups which help accelerate economic growth in many countries."
Forum Opening
Collaborating in the digital economy with a specific focus on the key role of SMEs in the digital ecosystem was the theme that kicked of the ITU Telecom World Forum Debate. The opening session provided unique and powerful perspectives from heads of state, government and international organizations worldwide.
Taking to the floor first, Houlin Zhao, Secretary-General, International Telecommunication Union, spoke of the importance of ICTs as enablers, noting that "Within the ICT industry, it is the innovative small and medium enterprises tech SMEs that are key to industry disruption, to job creation, and to the technological innovations that are taking the industry forward."
Xavier Bettel, Prime Minister, Luxembourg, spoke of the transformation currently underway in this digital era, and the tremendous potential impact which we cannot afford to miss. "None of us can afford to miss the train. In Luxembourg we consider impact of digital as a huge opportunity to create value and make the world a better place."
Speaking of the opportunities and challenges the fast-changing and evolving ICT ecosystem holds for Vanuatu, Mr. Charlot Salwai Tabimasmas, Prime Minister and Minister responsible for ICT and Telecommunications added "We value learning from experiences of other countries, and note synergies and cost efficiencies that could be achieved in designing, implementing, or advocating certain initiatives on a regional or international level."
Crown Prince Tupoutoa Ulukalala of the Kingdom of Tonga outlined the importance of inspiring collaboration, explaining how ITU Telecom World itself, "This annual flagship event has inspired Tonga as the first Pacific country to liberalize its telecoms sector in 2002. In a short time the benefits were realized."
Prajin Juntong, Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Kingdom of Thailand, spoke of taking inspiration from His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej's many innovative ICT projects and legacy, ensuring that "ICT is not for those who can afford it but we must allow those who are most in need to benefit from it to not be left behind."
Mukhisa Kituyi, Secretary-General, United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) commended the unique strengths of the event, providing dialogue between international organizations and the private sector to "collectively identify opportunities and challenges." He also took the opportunity to inform delegates that UNCTAD was today joining the EQUALS initiative, which aims to tackle the gender digital divide.
Commending ITU as a "platform to manage the emerging digital ecosystem," Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), United Arab Emirates, challenged delegates, as they began the week's debates, with topical questions such as "Can we ignore the value of collaboration?" or "Are we making sure we are applying enough innovation?"
Following the Forum Opening, debates began in earnest with the Leadership Summit, which convened highest-level experts from public and private sectors to explore why working together is so important for growing the digital economy.
During the 4 days of the event, Forum sessions will delve into an exciting set of topics such as artificial intelligence, how ICTs can meet the UN's Sustainable development goals (SDGs), intelligent transport systems and autonomous (driverless) vehicles, digital financial inclusion and fintech and financial incentives to invest in the global roll out of ICT infrastructure, collaborative innovation and the tech-SME ecosystem.
Parallel to the Forum, the Exhibition will showcase digital solutions and investment opportunities from governments and industry from both emerging and developed markets, including tech-SMEs.
During the week, participants will be able to learn more on the ITU Telecom World Awards, recognizing excellence and innovation in ICT solutions with social impact from SMEs and corporates alike. Winners will be announced during the closing ceremony on 17 November.
ITU Telecom World 2016 will also provide perspectives from across ITU and its membership and partners, with a host of exciting co-hosted events from across the ITU community.
It will also include a number of important agreements and contracts signed between Governments, Regulatory bodies and the private sector.
President-elect Donald Trump gave laid-off IT workers something his rival, Hillary Clinton, did not during the campaign: Attention and a promise to reform the H-1B visa program.
The IT workers that Trump wanted to appeal to don't work for startups, Google, Facebook or Microsoft. They run IT systems at insurance firms, banks, utilities and retailers. They live in Rust Belt cities and in New York City, but are too spread out for pollsters to measure.
Trump recognized that IT workers are aggrieved and so did Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.), who worked with the president-elect on this issue. Sessions, after being appointed in early 2015 as the chairman of the Senate immigration subcommittee, set out to become "the voice of the American IT workers who are being replaced with guest workers."
Sessions emerged as one of the visa program's harshest critics. He is now set to play a major role in a Trump administration.
Trump has appointed Sessions' chief counsel, Danielle Cutrona, to head his immigration policy transition team. Sessions is reportedly being considered to head the Department of Homeland Security (which oversees the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service), Department of Justice (which can investigate discrimination complaints), or the Department of Defense.
"Trump was the only candidate to invite me to share my horrific Disney story at his rallies, and Jeff Sessions was the only senator to invite me to testify at a Senate hearing," said Leo Perrero, a former IT worker at Disney who trained a visa-holding replacement. Disney laid off somewhere between 200 and 300 IT workers after hiring H-1B using contractors.
With Republicans in control of the Congress as well, Perrero said, "I am very optimistic that action will finally be taken."
After Southern California Edison (SCE) replaced a major part of its IT staff last year, Sessions took to the Senate floor and read Computerworld's news account of the displacement into the record. He invited leading H-1B critics to testify.
A poster-sized photograph showing American flags in the cubicles of soon-to-be laid off workers at Northeast Utilities, since named Eversource, was displayed at another immigration committee hearing. The flags were raised in protest by the utility's IT employees.
Brian Buchanan, a former senior IT staffer at SCE who also trained a visa-holding replacement, voted for Trump. He wants to see big changes to the visa program. But he is skeptical about the final outcome.
"Everyone including Trump says they're gonna fix this," said Buchanan, "but yet it just keeps on going and getting worse. We need to take back these jobs and give them to unemployed Americans. There are millions of Americans that would benefit if we ended these programs, but the lobbyists, elite, special interests and politicians have a vested financial interest in keeping Americans wages low and replacing us whenever they can."
What Buchanan wants to see is elimination of the H-1B program, because he believes it can't be fixed. "Every time government tries to fix broken programs, they make it far worse," he said.
To prevent what happened at Edison, Buchanan said U.S. firms should be liable for any contractor that uses H-1B visa workers to replace American workers. He also wants higher wages for visa workers, and believes the Trump administration should rescind President Barack Obama's executive order giving the spouses of some H-1B workers the ability to work. He has been part of a lawsuit fighting the Obama move.
The H-1B program "was only supposed to be used for an unfilled job that you couldn't find an American worker for," said Buchanan.
Reform of the H-1B program will face considerable opposition in Congress. It is an issue that transcends party lines. When longtime H-1B critic Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) tried to amend the 2013 Senate comprehensive immigration bill with U.S. worker protections, his chief opponent was a fellow Republican, Sen. Orrin Hatch, of Utah.
But Trump, as president, will have executive powers to force changes in the program. And with Sessions set to play a prominent role in the administration, Silicon Valley faces a difficult fight. Whether the risk of IT worker displacement recedes, remains to the seen.
Dawn Casey, an IT worker whose Twitter account states that she trained her foreign replacement, tweeted her joy on the night of Trump's victory. "I think his election is very important to the H-1B issue. Trump will put Americans first and he will bring back jobs," she wrote.
An Ealing doctor who supplied abortion clinics with out-of-date blood is being given a second chance.
Former Harley Street haematologist Firiad Shafik Hiwaizi, 59 of Gunnersbury Avenue in Acton, was found guilty of serious professional misconduct in October last year, and given a six-month period of assessment 'with particular reference to [his] clinical and managerial skills'.
But six months on, the General Medical Council heard on Wednesday last week, that Dr Hiwaizi had suffered a prolonged spell of ill-health and had been unable to undergo the objective assessment of his work. He had, at the previous hearing, admitted failing to ensure the blood stocks were adequately monitored, and it was revealed blood had been stored at the private Montpelier Hospital in Ealing, which is now shut, at the wrong temperature. He was also found guilty of making a false statement to an audit team which discovered the bad blood, a charge the doctor denied.
But he has now been given a 12-month reprieve in which to prove his clinical abilities, against the wishes of the council barrister, Mr Richard Tyson who said: 'If this doctor is incompetent it is essential we know as soon as possible for the benefit of the public.'
He will be under the constant supervision of a haematology consultant in an NHS hospital for the full year.
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The conclusion of the US presidential election of 2016 jolted the whole nation when the result was announced on November 8, 2016. Republican (GOP) nominee Donald Trump becomes the 45th American president after winning 279 votes.
Democrat representative Hillary Clinton lost with a final tally yielding only a total of 228. Despite the excellent analyses and forecasts, plus the fierce backing of Barack Obama and famous celebrities, it only took less than three days for the six remaining electoral states to pull a vicious uppercut that knocked her down to 51 points less. Now for the monumental question of the year: What happened?
It would seem that despite her popular media exposure, the majority of the American public is still having a hard time trusting her 'genuine' personality. A recent report published by BBC mentioned how waves of leaked email scandals critically endangered her candidacy, given that 'facts and figures exposed and substantiated her dubious side.'
Furthermore, everyone who once thought that Obama's proactive endorsement gave Clinton an advantage might now think again. On the contrary, that demonstration of solidarity seemed more like a sign of desperation. So why were the Democratic Party doing their very best to beat Donald Trump?
Contrary to most poll analyses, it seems Trump has a number of understated advantages. He is a well-known populist whose 'genuine' (although outrageous) outbursts always get the attention of the American people.
An article in Los Angeles Times also mentioned how Trump's natural affinity with key economic players contributes to his victory. Truth be told, America is still buried in debt, regardless of whether or not the Obama administration did some improvements. It would seem that choosing a controversially popular person who spent a lifetime doing business is a much preferable choice than a less popular candidate who stands tall in the shadow of her predecessors.
The 2016 Presidential Election is now over and the aftermath of the events that took place is quite polarizing. Donald Trump is now the President-elect of the most powerful nation in the world and half of the country's population is not happy about it.
After Donald Trump has announced his bid for presidency last year, many people became uncomfortable. It did not help either that throughout his campaign, he repeatedly mentioned controversial statements which only further fueled the fear of many people.
With his recent election as the Head of State, people who are strongly opposed to him are seriously considering moving to another country. A report from Quartz even mentioned that the Canadian immigration website crashing shortly after Donald Trump won.
So, here is the good news. There is actually a way to take up residence to another country if you are an entrepreneur, investor, or even a small business owner.
In a report by USA Today, entrepreneurs, small business owners, and investors craves stability. With Mr. Trump being elected as the President, there is a current unpredictability that most business people are wary of. Furthermore, many entrepreneurs who are immigrants really feel uneasy.
Here are some of the countries that will grant entrepreneurs residency in their countries:
Canada - The Start-Up Visa program requires an entrepreneur to have at least $200,000 CAD to invest. Proof of competency and eligibility to run a company is also required.
Ireland - The country is quite aggressive in getting foreign entrepreneurs. Check their Start-Up Entrepreneur Programme as it only requires at least 50,000 euros and 10 available jobs in Ireland.
Australia - The applicant should be under 55 years of age and has a least $250,000 AUD to fund a business. The visa is also said to not provide a way to become a permanent resident, however, long term stay can be granted.
Britain - For 50,000 British pounds to invest, a person can be granted the U.K. Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa. It allows the visa holder to stay for up to three years and can be extended after two years.
However, it might still be okay to stay in America. After all, Wall Street seemed to have closed positively after the elections according to a previous report from Jobs & Hire.
The Anti-Trump protest marks its third consecutive night in Madison, Wisconsin following the result of the 2016 election. The demonstration in Madison is just one of the 50 mass gatherings that exploded across the United States in the wake of Donald Trump's victory against Hillary Clinton.
According to an article published by Alter Net, the protesters have covered a total of at least 25 cities throughout their march. Such is the fierce determination of people who simply cannot forgive the racist and sexist remarks of Donald Trump during his campaign.
This rally proves to be a record-breaker in terms of uninterrupted duration. In other states, the civil revolutions were dispersed as they have just become a bit 'uncivilized.'
Due to extensive criminal and dangerous behavior, protest is now considered a riot. Crowd has been advised. Portland Police (@PortlandPolice) November 11, 2016
Meanwhile, anecdotal reports of hate crimes from Trump supporters ignite an all new terror among minority citizens. CNN reports that the majority of the targeted individuals are Muslims, but it seems African-Americans and Hispanics were also under fire. The most notorious criminal activities include assault, robbery and vandalism.
District officials in Maple Grove say they are "horrified" by racist graffiti scrawled today in a bathroom. | https://t.co/cO5EVnUBjz pic.twitter.com/rj0rMoVeJm WCCO - CBS Minnesota (@WCCO) November 9, 2016
Crews in #Durham have arrived to take down the hateful message. @WNCN pic.twitter.com/Jb9dyveWX2 Lauren Haviland (@LaurenWNCN) November 10, 2016
The current situation in America is slowly brewing into mass panic. The people, particularly the ethnically diverse public, are concerned that America under Donald Trump in the coming years will resemble Germany under Adolf Hitler in the late 1930's.
An article published by Jobs & Hire describes exactly the kind of scenario that ISIS terrorists want. With America torn from within, how much chance does Lady Liberty has in protecting herself from dire external threats?
Drastic drop of Marks & Spencer half year profit led the company to close down 80 stores, 2100 job losses is at stake. Incidentally, fashion is never lax, this made Marks & Spencer Retail Company CEO Steve Roweto paln a to redefinition of their stores into modernize clothing shops as well as giving way to Simply Food outlets.
Marks & Spencer Retail Company CEO, Steve Rowe is making a huge shakeup with UK's leading clothing chain, According to report, Marks & Spencer outlets overhaul will take five years to complete, it will be a complete turnabout for the company.
In response to Marks & Spencer's massive profit decline, M & S CEO needs to close a number of Marks & Spencer outlet. It is identified that the company is looking into Food Industry, as well redefining their marketing strategy. CEO Rowe plans to reopen some stores into new Simply Food outlets.
As stated by The Guardian, "The embattled retailer intends to put clothing and food on an equal footing with same amount of selling space devoted to both sides of the business." Simply Food outlets will receive the same footing as Marks & Spencer clothing outlets.
132 years, it is how long Marks & Spencer Retail Company had been in the clothing industry, it catered to the rich and famous around the world. Now that Fashion is fast changing, they are left hanging with outdated marketing strategies.
According to Steve Rowe in Mirror, "These are tough decisions, but vital to building a future M&S that is simpler, more relevant, multi-channel and focused on delivering sustainable returns."
The company will open new clothing lines like Autograph, Per Una, Blue Harbour, Alexa Chung's Archive collection, Baartman's & Siegel menswear, and Marie-Chantal childrens. It will cater to the younger and more upbeat Marks & Spencer Retail Company customers.
Meanwhile, Online retail is also part of the company's remaking, they want to reach out further to the people.Hopefully, the drastic change that Marks & Spencer is taking will lead to the company's revival in business.
Five years after the Royal Wedding of Kate Middleton and Prince William, the Duke and the Duchess of Cambridge are seen to have hands on the upcoming familial ceremony next year. Meanwhile, Pippa Middleton confirms the date of her wedding and the possible roles of the royal grandchildren.
Despite their efforts to keep the wedding ceremony humble, reports confirmed that Pippa Middleton has already given them a word in the next royal-studded event. According to Pippa, she is more than excited as the month of May approaches in 2017. This is because her wedding day may fall on one of those days.
Almost all things are set after many good hands offered to contribute to the success of the event. Even Kate Middleton was hands on with the preparation despite the controversies that the Queen disallowed her, along with her Royal family to attend the said public event.
It seems that 'family' is paramount to Kate and so she keeps on helping her sister Pippa to have the best wedding possible. According to IBT, the maker of Kate's earrings during the Royal weddings is alleged to be making the engagement ring of Pippa Middleton.
Kate Middleton, as the sister of the bride, will read something for the wedding, and her children Charlotte and George might also take a role as a page boy and a flower girl. While all seems to be in place, there are controversies that the Queen of Cambridge bans Prince William and Kate Middleton to attend the said ceremony. This was after knowing that the soon-to-be husband of Pippa was a model posing nude photos for advertisements.
To further avoid any unnecessary comments and assumptions on the Royal family, the Queen just decided to advise the royal couple not to attend the wedding anymore. The controversy has finally come to an end after the Queen expressed embarrassment because people think that she was banning Kate to attend her own family's celebration, as reported by Gossip Cop.
There are no words yet if Kate Middleton will attend with Prince William and children, but the venue is expected to be in the Middleton's residence in Englefield, Berkshire.More updates will be revealed soon about Pippa Middleton's highly anticipated wedding.
After the results of the 2016 United States Presidential Elections were released, citizens of the greatest nation are vigorously protesting against Trump's victory in the elections. This caused Turkey's foreign Ministry to issue a warning about the country's safety.
People continue to protest in different cities, expressing their concerns about the incoming Trump Presidency. This has triggered Turkey's Foreign Ministry to issue a travel warning for the United States. It seems that the protests that are running rampant pose a danger for tourists. Moreover, it is also possible for racists to actively assault those of different race, may it be verbally or physically.
In a recent report here on Jobs & Hire, aside from protests about the Trump victory, hate crimes are also becoming more frequent. Even the Portland Police has already categorized the protests as a riot, advising citizens to be aware of the dangers present in the country.
According to Bloomberg, Turkey often finds themselves on the receiving end of negativity for more than two years now. It is known that foreign tourists are targeted by terrorist attacks in major cities in Turkey.
Out of concern for their own, Tukey has stated a warning directed to Turks currently residing in the United States. As per Times of Israel, Ankara shares a warning to those who live in the United States or who are planning to travel to the US to be vigilant due to risks linked to current events and social tensions. As posted on the foreign ministry website.
Ankara also warns that there is an increase of verbal and physical abuse over the past few days, usually doled out by xenophobes and racists. As a result, Turks are warned, "Do not approach zones where demonstrations are growing, take security precautions and closely follow news via local media."
The latest updates about "Grimm" Season 6 is that it will be answering all of the fans' questions regarding the TV series. Fans have petitioned for TV executives to not cancel the show, but their plea went unheeded.
According to Fab Newz, "Grimm" Season 6 will premiere its last and final season on January 6, 2017, and the fans will be in for a treat as the show will end the series in a way that they want. The first of which is the confrontation that will happen between Nick Burkhardt (David Guintoli) and Captain Sean Renard (Sasha Roiz).
Nick and Sean will finally face-off each other, giving the fans the climax that they were waiting for and providing them with a consolation for ending the show after six seasons. The latest updates of "Grimm" Season 6 also promises to answer a lot of the unanswered questions left in Season 5.
The lack of suspense and the number of updates about what will happen in "Grimm" Season 6 have indicated that the show will indeed be canceled. Movie News Guide reports that it appears fans petition to NBC and to other TV Network and even to Netflix have all went unheeded.
Several followers of the show have created a petition to Change.org for the show to continue, or to at least have a spinoff. Unfortunately, months have already passed since the cancellation announcement and there is still no update with regards to "Grimm" Season 7, or its spinoff.
A fan in Germany started a petition in September for Netflix to host the show. The petition has already reached 11,209 and only needs 3,791 more to reach the target of 15,000.
Netflix however, has yet to even respond to the petition, which shows the sad reality that there doesn't seem to be any interest from other networks to host the show. Several fans have written a petition to TNT, the network that hosted season 2, to host the show again.
But like in the case of Netflix, TNT didn't respond to the petition. As much as there are a lot of fans who are clamoring for the show to continue, it looks like "Grimm" will be airing its final 13 episodes starting this January.
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RALEIGH Despite millions spent by Democrats and allies this fall and with a divisive LGBT law in their political arsenal, the North Carolina General Assembly will begin in January with Republicans still firmly in charge in the dominant branch of state government.
Whether the GOPs veto-proof majorities retained on Election Day remain intact for the entire two-year session may depend partly on the courts. Federal judges could order Senate and House districts be remapped early in 2017 and special elections later next year because they recently determined nearly 30 drawn by Republicans are illegal racial gerrymanders.
Regardless of possible recounts and barring changes when provisional ballots are added, Republicans will hold essentially the same margins in the two chambers since 2013. It means Republicans can continue enacting right-leaning policies without a governor blocking them or Democratic colleagues upholding the veto.
Even should Democrat Roy Cooper succeed Republican Gov. Pat McCrory the outgoing attorney general leads by 5,000 votes with ballots not yet counted hell be in a weak negotiating position.
Democrats needed to gain four seats in the House or five in the Senate. But they got only one in the House and lost one in the Senate, according to unofficial results. Republicans may hold 74 of the 120 House seats and 35 of the 50 Senate seats.
Beyond criticisms of Republican legislation on education, the environment and voting rights, Democrats focused attacks on House Bill 2. The law limited local and state protections for gay and lesbian rights and told transgender people to use the restrooms in schools and government buildings corresponding to the gender on their birth certificates.
McCrorys signing of the law hurt him in some areas. But Rep. Darren Jackson, D-Wake, who helped direct House Democratic campaigning, was disappointed with the laws effect upon legislative races. He was surprised that a couple of GOP legislators who voted for House Bill 2 last March, only to call for its repeal in recent weeks, survived challenges.
The change of heart seemed to work, Jackson said. I had expected the people would see through that.
GOP leaders believe their message of lower taxes and unemployment, higher teacher salaries and fiscal responsibility worked. Theyve defended House Bill 2 and accused gay rights groups and corporate CEOs of asserting an extreme social agenda.
I want to thank the people of the state of North Carolina because they paid attention to what we did, Senate leader Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, said on election night. They didnt pay attention to what other people were saying many of those other people from out-of-state, many people coming into North Carolina trying to change the narrative.
Whether those elected serve their two-year terms is unclear.
A three-judge panel last August declared unconstitutional nine Senate and 19 House districts drawn by Republicans in 2011. The judges declared GOP legislators failed to justify creating so many majority-black districts.
The fall elections continued under current maps, but judges now will decide when the General Assembly must redraw. New boundaries could give Democrats an earlier chance to end the veto-proof majorities. Lawyers for the plaintiffs who sued successfully want the judges to order new maps by Jan. 25, two weeks after the General Assembly reconvenes, with elections using the maps later in the year.
The interests of the public as a whole also are best served by implementing constitutional redistricting plans as soon as possible, the lawyers wrote in September.
But lawyers for the state and Republican lawmakers responded a January deadline and 2017 elections are overreaching, unreasonable and unrealistic. They say the General Assembly needs until the end of July, the same completion month in 2011. They said 116 of the 170 districts would likely have to be redrawn.
A U.S. Supreme Court decision next year on a similar racial gerrymandering lawsuit involving North Carolinas congressional districts could affirm, limit or overturn the ruling on the legislative maps.
Gildan Activewear Inc. on Monday announced perhaps its boldest acquisition move yet, saying it has committed to spending $66 million to buy certain assets of bankrupt American Apparel LLC.
American Apparel, based in Los Angeles, voluntarily filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy Sunday its second time requiring protection from creditors since October 2015.
It listed assets and liabilities between $100 million and $500 million and creditors between 25,001 and 50,000.
Much of Americans brand cachet comes from the bulk of its products, geared toward millennials and made domestically. It is known primarily for its sexually oriented advertising and chief executive Dov Charney, who faced allegations of sexual harassment in the workplace.
American entered bankruptcy with the intent of having Gildan be a preferred acquirer, although a U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge may require an auction for the assets. If Gildan is outbid, it would receive a break-up fee.
The deal, subject to the approval of a federal bankruptcy judge, could be concluded in the first quarter.
Gildan would acquire the intellectual property rights of the American brand. It plans to separately buy inventory from American to ensure a seamless supply of goods in the printwear channel while the company integrates the brand within its printwear business.
Gildan may consider keeping the companys 1.5 million square feet of production and distribution operations, according to a court filing.
However, Gildan said it would not acquire any of Americans 110 stores.
Gildan said the American Apparel brand would represent a strong complementary addition to the companys portfolio of brands.
The acquisition will create revenue growth opportunities by leveraging Gildans extensive distribution network in North American and international printwear markets to further increase the brands penetration in the faster-growing fashion basics segments of these markets.
Gildan, an apparel manufacturer based in Montreal, has pledged to create more than 700 jobs in North Carolina, including at least 290 in Mocksville and 16 in Eden, as part of expanding domestic yarn-spinning capacity for new and existing products for its Gildan Yarns division. It also added production in Salisbury.
Gildan is a direct competitor of Hanesbrands Inc. of Winston-Salem.
American exited bankruptcy protection in early 2016 as a smaller, leaner company, shrinking from 230 stores and 8,500 employees in six factories to 110 stores, three factories and 4,400 employees.
However, major losses returned quickly, including a 33-percent decline in sales in the third quarter compared with a year ago.
The company faced unfavorable market conditions that were more persistent and widespread than the debtors anticipated, said Mark Weinstein, who has been appointed as American Apparels chief restructuring officer. These market conditions were particularly detrimental to retailers.
By comparison, Gildan reported third-quarter sales of $715 million, up 6 percent in the quarter. Printwear sales rose 4.9 percent to $461.9 million, while branded apparel sales increased 8.2 percent to $253.
Gildan said it would evaluate potential wholesale opportunities for leveraging the American brand within its branded apparel business.
Bowman Gray IV, a local independent stock broker, said the Gildan acquisition bid looks like a good deal since it not taking on any of AAs debt.
Gildan has some work to do reestablishing the brand.
Gildans recent spree includes a $55 million purchase of Peds Legwear Inc. of Hildebran that closed in August and a $110 million deal for Alstyle Apparel LLC that closed in May.
Stifel analyst Jim Duffy said the potential acquisition offers Gildan the ability to accelerate its growth strategy through another recognizable brand.
We see opportunity in the fashion basics portion of the printwear business, as well as potential for use of the trade name in branded apparel.
Importantly, Gildan will not be taking on any retail assets, which we see as a positive, Duffy said.
Duffy said the deal would not tie up Gildans ability to conduct another purchase in the short term.
Although the election of Donald Trump as president has stoked some dissent, there are many who believe he truly can make America great again.
Q: Im thinking of getting a fitness watch. What are the benefits and where can I go to learn about and compare the different ones available?
GB
Answer: All types of fitness trackers, including fitness watches, can be a fun way to measure your personal health, and can promote healthy changes in your daily routine. Many of the most popular companies with new fitness trackers right now encourage goal setting and friendly competition among users. Trackers are designed to accommodate a variety of different activities and lifestyles, but the benefits of this wearable technology will only come if you find one that has the right features for you.
A great way to narrow your search is to know the difference between the types of wearable fitness trackers on the market. There are some designed for all day wear and others for training purposes. All day trackers measure things like calories burned and consumed, steps taken, duration of exercise/activity, and sleep time. The training trackers do everything that all day trackers do, and also measure things like heart rate and breathing patterns, the speed, pace, route of your exercise and altitude change.
Another thing to consider is the display or face of your tracker. Often, the key to integrating a fitness tracker into your daily routine is a user-friendly interface. Many watches require you to sync your data to a smart phone or other device, and use a companion app that stores and analyzes all of your data. In terms of battery life, a more advanced tracker with a touchscreen and lots of sensors will need to be charged more often than a simple LED light display. Some trackers are not even rechargeable, instead running on coin cell batteries.
Consumer Reports released a Fitness Tracker Buying Guide that can be used to navigate the different types of trackers and help you pick one out. Visit www.consumerreports.org/cro/fitness-trackers/buying-guide.htm to access the report.
Q: My retiree employer group health insurance does not cover prescription drugs. How will I sign up for coverage?
SR
Answer: You will need to enroll in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. These drug plans are provided by private insurance companies that have contracted with and have plans approved by Medicare. You can enroll and make changes during Open Enrollment Period, which occurs annually from Oct. 15 thru Dec. 7.
As a Medicare beneficiary you may benefit from the Extra Help program. The program assists qualified Medicare beneficiaries with their Medicare prescription drug plan costs by reducing or eliminating the premiums, deductibles, coverage gaps, copayments and coinsurance a beneficiary is asked to pay. It is administered through the Social Security Administration. Eligibility guidelines for Extra Help are based on income and assets and those guidelines are reviewed and adjusted annually.
There is an application process for the Extra Help program. However, if you receive Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or other assistance in paying your Medicare premiums you automatically qualify for Extra Help and do not need to submit an application. All others may submit applications for Extra Help online or by mail. For more information or to obtain an application, please contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or online at www.socialsecurity.gov/extrahelp.
The Seniors Health Insurance Information Programs (SHIIP) volunteer counselors are also available to answer questions and provide information about Medicare, Medicare supplements, Advantage and Part D plans. SHIIP is a division of the North Carolina Department of Insurance and can be reached at 1-855-408-1212.
The nations Founding Fathers established three branches of government executive, judicial and legislative to not only represent three distinct systems of power, but also as checks and balances necessary for a democracy to thrive.
North Carolinians appeared, on the surface, to confirm their desire for such balance with pivotal votes for two Democrats and a left-leaning judge amidst a dominant Republican performance in Tuesdays general election.
Roy Cooper, the states attorney general, leads Gov. Pat McCrory by 4,979 votes out of 4.66 million cast with a Nov. 18 canvass of county ballots, including provisional, absentee and military. A recount request is expected from the McCrory re-election campaign.
Josh Stein appears headed to succeed Cooper as attorney general with a 20,777 vote lead over Sen. Buck Newton. Neither Newton nor the state Republican Party has made public any intentions of requesting a recount.
It remains to be seen whether Stein will continue Coopers stand on declining to defend Republican-sponsored state laws that he viewed as unconstitutional, such as House Bill 2 and the voter ID law.
Perhaps most importantly, Mike Morgan, a Superior Court judge, has unseated Justice Bob Edmunds on the state Supreme Court by a 54.5 percent to 45.5 percent margin.
Morgans win means there will be more left-leaning justices (four) than right-leaning (three).
Two associate justices, Sam Ervin and Barbara Jackson, are up for re-election in 2018. Ervin is viewed as left-leaning, while Jackson is viewed as right-leaning, both based on their political backgrounds.
Morgans victory is a geopolitical flip so pivotal that the Winston-Salem Journal reported Saturday that some Republican legislators are considering pushing to add two justices to the court as permitted in the state Constitution in a special session that McCrory could call after Thanksgiving essentially for Hurricane Matthew relief legislation.
During that session, a potential lame duck McCrory could nominate two conservative judges to terms that would last at least through the November 2018 election a move some political observers claim represents a defiance of the will of the people.
On a number of issues, to be sure, the state Supreme Court has not been evenly divided, and so there is not an expectation that Morgans election would change the outcome, said John Dinan, a political science professor at Wake Forest University.
For instance, the court has in recent years issued unanimous or near-unanimous decisions on cases concerning the states MAP Act and legislators power to make appointments to commissions. On these types of cases, a change of one judge is unlikely to make a big difference.
But on cases where the state Supreme Court has been evenly divided and generally along party lines, though, Morgans election could have a big impact, Dinan said.
Divisive cases
The most divisive case, perhaps, is redistricting, particularly as 2020 looms on the horizon and Morgan has been elected to an eight-year term.
Bob Orr, a Republican and a Supreme Court justice from 1994 to 2004, said any potential attempt to expand the court is less sour grapes about Edmunds defeat and more about redistricting and the implications of current litigation and the call for independent redistricting with 2020 looming.
The party in charge of the General Assembly in 2020 will have the task of carving the next round of redistricting maps based on North Carolinas population growth and in-state migration patterns.
If we had independent redistricting, we would have significantly less litigation, Orr said.
Expanding the court for the sake of redistricting is a bad look for the Supreme Court and the judiciary because it makes the court appear partisan and undermines the confidence the public has in the judiciary systems independence.
Orr said the Supreme Court serves as the final arbiter of issues involving the state constitution, such as the school voucher case.
When asked if having a left-tilting Supreme Court could deter Republican legislative leaders from introducing bills that critics may consider as unconstitutional, Orr said those leaders will take their chances in the state court system.
Justices are expected to vote not according to a party line, but based on the facts of the case and the appeal, Orr said.
Making that challenging, Orr said, is that neither a Democrat- nor Republican-controlled General Assembly have adequately funded the state court system, which leads the court is a delicate position when considering whether to strike down certain legislation.
Dinan said Morgans victory could have significant consequences for the fate of measures passed by the state legislature, ranging from legislative redistricting plans to voter ID requirements to school-choice programs, especially on issues where the current court has been rather evenly divided.
Will of the people?
Some analysts and political observers question whether Morgans win fully represents a show of the will of the people, but more that his name was listed first on the ballot.
In most court races, the Republican candidate was listed first, one of the election privileges the party of the governor received from a law passed in July by the legislature.
Morgan emerged victorious in several rural eastern and western counties that otherwise voted overwhelmingly for Republican candidates. Morgan ultimately carried 75 of the 100 counties, including all eight urban counties.
Orr also cited that Edmunds candidacy was caught up in a Republican-sponsored bill passed by the General Assembly in 2015 that would have removed voters ability to choose Supreme Court justices.
Instead, each justice would have faced a retention election, essentially a yes or no vote on their term in office without an opponent on the ballot. If they were to vote no, the justice would be replaced by a governor appointee until the next General Assembly election.
Sabra Faires, a Raleigh attorney, challenged the law. A state Superior Court judge panel determined the law to be a violation of the state Constitution. With the Supreme Court splitting 3-3 on the question, with Edmunds abstaining, voter election of justices was maintained.
Orr also mentioned that Edmunds was the subject of what he called an aggressive political advertising campaign paid for by outside funding that was grossly unfair to Edmunds related to the retention issue.
Checks and balances
When it comes to the check and balance of having a potential Democrat governor and a Republican-controlled General Assembly, the super-majority hold on both chambers is likely to limit Coopers veto leverage over legislation.
However, Cooper being in the governors seat means the State Board of Elections and the 100 county boards of election will be controlled by Democrats, the latter by a 2-to-1 margin.
That likely means the state and county boards will be more agreeable to Democrat requests for additional early voting precincts, additional early voting days and returning precincts to college campuses, such as at Winston-Salem State and Appalachian State universities.
For example, in July, early voting sites in two of Winston-Salems prominent minority neighborhoods were in jeopardy after the Forsyth County elections board approved a plan that moved sites at Winston-Salem State Universitys Anderson Center and the Sprague Street Recreation Center to a site in the southwest portion of the county and a site further east.
The board was split along party lines also on proposed early voting dates and hours, including a Democrat proposal for Sunday early voting that was rejected.
However, eventually the Anderson and Sprague Street sites were approved for early voting.
In October 2014, Wake Superior Court Judge Donald Stephens ruled that the state boards decision to leave out the Appalachian State precinct site appeared to discourage student voting and looked like a constitutional violation.
Although the board ultimately complied with Stephens order in the Watauga County case, state attorneys argue that early voting decisions arent subject to judicial review and continued the appeal. The state board was brought into the Watauga case when the countys three-member board couldnt agree on an early vote plan.
Earlier this year, the Fourth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled to end the voter ID law and restore 17 days of in-person voting.
However, it left details of the 17-day schedule in the hands of local election boards, where Republicans hold majorities.
That means county election boards had to approve new proposals for early voting dates, hours and locations in a third of the states 100 counties. A total of 24 counties provided two plans one approved by a majority on each three-member board and the other backed by a single member. Those counties include Mecklenburg, Wake, New Hanover, Pitt and Union.
The (Raleigh) News & Observer reported in August that Dallas Woodhouse, executive director of the state Republican Party, encouraged GOP appointees to county elections boards to make party line changes to early voting by limiting the number of hours and keeping polling sites closed on Sundays.
Woodhouse sat front and center during a daylong assessment of the county boards plans by the state board that included the state board preserving at least some Sunday voting in several counties where it had been used in 2012, and where local GOP officials attempted to eliminate it.
The future
Michael Walden, an economics professor at N.C. State University, said a left-leaning state Supreme Court will likely give broader and more modern interpretations to statutes.
In this regard, there may be some expectation they would be less business friendly, and more worker and consumer friendly.
Zagros Madjd Sadjadi, an economics professor at Winston-Salem State, said Cooper will not have an easy time with a Republican legislature unhappy with the closeness of the governors race.
They will look to override any of his vetoes.
Mitch Kokai, a policy analyst with conservative think tank John Locke Foundation, said it seems entirely likely that any Republican-driven legislation thats able to survive a Cooper veto will be heading straight to court.
Theres no way of knowing for certain that the newly constituted Supreme Court will side with Democrats, but the likelihood is much stronger now. This is especially true with the new sets of election maps that could be written early in 2017.
Rob Schofield, a policy analyst with left-leaning N.C. Policy Watch, said with Cooper possibly in the Governors Mansion and a fairer and less ideological majority running the court, the Republican majority at the General Assembly just lost a lot of steam.
Charles Calamese III wears a number of hats at Winston-Salem State University.
Hes a sophomore, veteran and president of WSSUs Military Students and Veterans Organization, known as MSVO.
Its the veteran part that Calamese, 24, said often surprises people because he doesnt introduce himself that way.
One of his goals as president of the MSVO is to build a sense of community for student veterans.
This year, he came up with two ideas to help support veterans. MSVO members distributed ribbons to students, faculty and staff. The organization also teamed up with the National Association of Black Veterans to hold a benefits fair.
I thought it was something great that we could do to show our appreciation to veterans, to basically show that we support the troops and different things of that nature, Calamese said.
At WSSU, the number of student veterans and active-duty military has increased over the past two years to about 200.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, student veterans are growing on college campuses. In 2009, there were about 500,000 receiving education benefits compared with more than a million using their GI benefits to pursue advanced educational opportunities in 2013. This number is expected to increase by 20 percent over the next few years.
Options for future
Calamese, the son of a U.S. Army officer, joined the Army after he graduated from high school while living in his hometown of Charlotte.
He chose to be in the military following a conversation with his mother.
She said, Son, I dont see you staying here in Charlotte. I see you going out and growing and becoming a young man away from me.
He served from 2011 to 2014 as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg. His service included a seven-month deployment in Afghanistan.
When he returned to Charlotte in late 2014, he struggled somewhat with the transition, he said. In August 2015, he became a student at WSSU, where he is using the GI Bill benefits he earned to major in economics with a minor in psychology.
Prior to the military, his first option for a career was to go to community college and get his barbers license because he has always wanted to own his own barbershop.
I dont want to be a barber, he said. I want to own the barbershop.
He said he is pursuing his degree at WSSU in economics because he still has that passion to open his own business.
Calamese is grateful for the time he served in the Army, he said.
I always tell people it created a way out of no way for me, just for the fact that at age 17 and 18, I thought I had all the answers and I didnt. The one time I listened to someone, it turned out very well for me. It allowed me to go to school and Im using my (military) benefits.
Joel Lee, assistant vice chancellor for enrollment management and adviser for WSSUs Military Students and Veterans Organization, said that Calamese brings his passion and energy to other military and veteran students at WSSU.
Hes always looking for ways to get students engaged and further the bonds between military students, Lee said.
Military Students and Veterans Organization
The focus of WSSUs Military Students and Veterans Organization is to provide a community for military and veteran students where they can easily find other like-minded students that can understand where theyre coming from, Lee said. Its a way to help them get into a community within a community.
Lee said the organization has some veteran members in their 40s and 50s, but the majority of members are not older adult students. They include dependents of veterans, National Guardsmen, Reservists and ROTC cadets.
He said that the organization offers socials, opportunities for students to learn about their military benefits, and informational meetings where people can talk about their day-to-day experiences and challenges, if any, and ask questions about things on campus. The MSVO always offers events each fall around Veterans Day.
They usually do a service learning project or two together during the year, Lee said. Sometimes thats a good way to connect them with veteran or military folks in the community at large, to get them outside the campus walls and let them help other veterans or learn from other veterans and gain some experiences through service-learning.
Lee said that there are other efforts in general at WSSU to help military students, including a counseling center on campus where students with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, known as PTSD, can get help and remain anonymous.
Sonne Sonkesak, 22, is an ROTC cadet and senior at WSSU, who has been a member of the MSVO since January 2014.
I enjoy helping to build the community in general, more specifically with the veterans because my father is a vet, said Sonkesak, a nursing major with a minor in psychology. Also, because Ill be a future lieutenant in the military, I just love the fact that the organization is about serving the community on campus and off campus.
Calamese said WSSU has a system in place for veterans to succeed on campus.
He said short-term, he would like to show veterans the value of the Military Students and Veterans Organization while long-term he would like to see the organization become a bridge between student-veterans and faculty and staff on campus.
Theres kind of a gap between faculty, administration and the student veteran population, he said. and thats where we can come in, helping faculty to understand unique needs of veterans.
ASHEVILLE Firefighters say higher humidity is helping them fight and contain more than a dozen wildfires across western North Carolina.
The state Forest Service said in a news release most of the rain across central and eastern North Carolina on Sunday won't make it to the mountains.
But the agency says more moist air over the area should give firefighters a chance to make significant progress.
Officials closed a 10-mile section of U.S. 19/74 in the Nantahala Gorge because they worry the Tellico Fire will cause rocks and debris to fall.
The Tellico Fire is the largest blaze in the state, covering 21 square miles in Macon and Swain counties. It is about 33 percent contained.
Firefighters say the fire danger will rise as drier weather returns and more leaves fall.
Early on the morning of Nov. 9, Republican President-elect Donald Trump addressed supporters in New York, declaring victory over Democrat Hillary Clinton.
As I wrote then, presidents-elect deserve at least an initial benefit of the doubt. Toward that end, I thought it would be useful to review the positive aspects of Donald Trumps presidential campaign.
Before that, a caveat: I am not claiming that these positives outweigh the negatives of Trumps campaign. The degree to which Trumps gaslighting and rhetoric turn American politics nasty and American public policy stupid remains to be seen. But just as some good things can be salvaged from a destructive war, there are some positives that can be salvaged from Trumps campaign. In the spirit of comity, lets focus on them for a few minutes.
In no particular order:
The smashing of American political dynasties. Two years ago, most political pundits were expecting a Bush vs. Clinton general election race and feeling pretty depressed about it. The Bush and Clinton clans have dominated American politics for close to 30 years now. Some of that was merited George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton were above-average presidents. Despite their best efforts, however, neither Bushs children nor Clintons spouse quite matched these accomplishments. The fact that the Bushes and Clintons were continually seen as front-runners in their party primaries was probably not healthy for American democracy in the long run.
Donald Trump isnt exactly a hardscrabble bootstrapping tale of the American Dream, no matter how much untruthful hyperbole he tries to spread. But he is a relative newcomer to electoral politics, and managed to dispatch both a Bush and a Clinton this election cycle. That aint beanbag. 2020 will be the first time in a while that a Clinton or a Bush will not be discussed at the top of a major party ticket. Thats a good thing.
Its OK for Republicans to acknowledge the Iraq war was an unmitigated disaster. The only Republican running for president in 2004, 2008 or 2012 who thought the Iraq war was a mistake was Ron Paul. This stunted GOP foreign policy discourse for more than a decade.
Trump supported the Iraq war, but his support was lukewarm and he turned against it by 2004. Having the GOP front-runner loudly declare it as a disaster and paying no political price for it in a Republican primary is no small political thing. Trump has half a point when he suggests that there needs to be some new foreign policy thinking in GOP circles. This is his best example.
Fiscal policy and infrastructure spending are live policy options. One of the few areas of policy consensus between Trump and Clinton was on infrastructure spending. With interest rates so low and Americas infrastructure so dilapidated, government spending on this priority make eminent sense. House Speaker Paul Ryan might not like it, but leading Democrats like Chuck Schumer will. This might be an area where Trump gets his way.
One last subversive point here for conservatives: The hard truth is that the only two Republicans to win the presidency in the post-Cold War era were pretty much stone-cold Keynesians when it comes to fiscal policy.
Republicans are focusing on the economically disadvantaged. I have expressed serious doubts about whether Trumps brand of economic populism will play as well as others think. I certainly dont think much of Trumps trade solutions to the perceived problem of economic stagnation.
That said, in a country that is increasingly polarized, there is virtue in Trumps focus on citizens who have been hurt by globalization or automation or war. If nothing else, Trumps victory demonstrates the importance of those voters. As the Wall Street Journal editorialized, Mr. Trump is a walking rebuke to the general liberal indifference to economic stagnation, as if the status quo is the best this country can do. As someone who has argued that after 2008 the system worked, this is worth some rumination.
Pointing out that political correctness has maybe run amok just a wee bit. My Post colleague Catherine Rampell covers this and covers it well; as a college professor, I just have to live it. I think some of these concerns have been vastly overblown, but I also cant deny that there are chilling effects when it becomes fashionable to label certain forms of speech as offensive and therefore completely out of bounds.
This last point is the one that I am the most dubious about making. You dont need to be an emo college student to conclude that Trumps rhetoric has been racist and misogynistic at numerous intervals. But his victory does point out the ways that political correctness can also trigger political backlashes. A PC culture can ostracize people despite the professed aim of inclusion. Maybe some soul-searching on that front is in order.
Seemingly far away in North Dakota, the Standing Rock Sioux are defiantly opposing what they regard as an invasion of their homeland. Unfortunately, their story resonates with events in North Carolina 240 years ago this fall.
In the summer of 1776, the frontier settlements far to the west of the provincial governments moveable seat of power saw vicious attacks by hostile Cherokees wanting to stop illegal Colonial settlements and to force the Virginians, as they called all whites, back across the Appalachian Mountains. Reports of Indian attacks alarmed the Council of Safety, the provincial governments executive body. Numerous incidences of barbarity committed against isolated families aroused the Council to authorize military action to secure the frontier, the border as it were, beyond which lay the ancient homeland of the Ani-Yun-Wiya, the Real People, as the Cherokee called themselves.
The Cherokees traded extensively with British interests and trusted in the treaties they had with the King. Indeed, the Proclamation of 1763 had reserved the over-mountain region with its westward flowing waters to the native peoples specifically. But some Virginians then fighting against the British Crown refused to acknowledge such a boundary which cordoned off these attractive lands they coveted.
The Council of Safety called for Brigadier-General Griffith Rutherford to take the most vigorous measures ... to put an end to this cruel unjust & wicked Indian war. Making plans to coordinate his attacks on the Cherokee towns with militia forces from Virginia and South Carolina, Rutherford wrote within the limits of his formal education to the Council: If the Frunters, of Each of them Provances will joyn me, I have no Doubt of a Finel Destruction of the Cherroce Nation. His intentions were clear.
Departing Salisbury in mid-July even before word of the Declaration of Independence had made its way to North Carolina, the experienced and capable Rutherford marched through the Catawba River valley to Fort Davidson (todays Old Fort) to await the mustering of the militiamen he had called into action from across the Salisbury District. Among them were men under Major Joseph Winston arriving from the Yadkin River valley with supplies purchased from the merchants at Salem. Rutherford gathered 2,500 militiamen; they carried supplies for 40 days on 1,400 packhorses. On Sept. 1, they headed into a wilderness with no roads and few trails. They ascended into the Blue Ridge Mountains through Swannanoa Gap and passed over the French Broad River near todays Biltmore House. The predominately white, Protestant militiamen of European heritage were eager to attack the savages. So much so, that at one campsite, the expeditions chaplain spied movement in the woods. He fired his rifle with effect, mistaking an enslaved black man for a Cherokee.
Rutherfords main body of militiamen marched down the Little Tennessee River searching out Cherokee towns. They soon found Echoe and Nikwasi (todays Franklin). They burned the cornfields and the storehouses. Rutherford invaded Cowee, a chief town of the Middle Cherokee, on September 11, camping there that night and then burning that principal town. Back at Nikwasi, the Reverend further violated the sanctity of the Cherokees by giving a Christian sermon from atop their sacred mound.
Half the men marched with Rutherford toward the Nantahala Mountains into the Valley region. During the following week, Rutherfords militiamen burned several Cherokee towns along Hiwassee River. They killed and scalped some Cherokees, including women, and took others captive, later selling them into slavery. After a month, they had burned 36 Cherokee towns. Rutherfords intent was to chase Cherokees including women, children, elderly and babes into the forest where they would likely perish during the coming winter.
Taking special pride in the accomplishments of Rutherfords Expedition, the Council of Safety wrote to Virginias Gov. Patrick Henry declaring, We flatter ourselves that the Southern States will suffer no further Damage this Season from the Savages, as it will employ their whole time to provide Sustenance & Shelter for their Squaws & Children.
Rutherfords Expedition against the Cherokees along with attacks by Williamson from South Carolina, Samuel from Georgia, and Christian from Virginia, soon forced most Cherokees to capitulate. But a militant band of renegades under Dragging Canoe, calling themselves Chickamaugas, would not relent. They harassed white settlement efforts for another 16 years.
America is a democracy in which disparate voices deserve a hearing, but, it only works if we all listen to one another. And sometimes history, speaking loudest and most resolutely, offers us the best lessons: Might does not make right.
At one point in the Soundbreaking documentary series, producer Paul Epworth describes a freshly heartbroken Adele singing him her new song, Rolling in the Deep, pounding out the beat and her frustrations with her foot on a slab of wood.
He shows how her foot-stomping was incorporated into the rhythm track of the recording, which became one of this centurys biggest hits. Its one of several insights packed into the eight-hour series that begins at 10 tonight on PBS.
The series was the brainchild of George Martin, the Beatles producer who died March 8. The sprawling overview was wrestled into shape by Jeff Dupre, an American producer who made sure it was something other than a technology wonks paradise.
You want it to not be a history lesson but an experience for the audience, Dupre said. Theyll hear a few new things, but also enjoy hearing it.
The series is divided into several topics, including the role of a producer, the use of sampling and how the recording studio became an instrument. Each episode is packed with songs and personal stories. Tom Petty describes how Jeff Lynne stopped him upon first hearing the chord progression that became Free Fallin, and Questlove talks about being entranced by the sound of Rappers Delight.
Giles Martin was a partner in the project, becoming more active with his fathers illness.
His life was dedicated to making people happy through sound, he said. If you think about it, it was really as simple as that. He tried to push boundaries all the time within that. The innovation, not just with himself but with a lot of people, he thought was quite an interesting story to tell.
After the Beatles left the road, they partnered with Martin using the studio as a palette. Soundbreaking discusses the making of Tomorrow Never Knows, where Martin was charged with bringing some of John Lennons offbeat ideas to life.
For much of the 1900s, the goal of recording technology was to make a listener experience being in a room as music was made, said Giles Martin, who went into the family business. In the 1960s and beyond with the constant introduction of new technology, that changed.
Before being assigned to a young Liverpool band no one had heard of, George Martin produced comedy records, where he was accustomed to incorporating sound effects into recordings. With his background, he would have never gotten the job as Beatles producer in todays world, which is kind of an interesting lesson that hasnt been learned since, Martin said.
The surviving Beatles, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, both participate in Soundbreaking. More than 150 artists and producers are interviewed.
Besides George Martin and the Beatles, Soundbreaking talks about the 1960s work of Brian Wilson and Phil Spector. Because of Spector piling on the instruments, Youve Lost That Lovin Feelin doesnt sound like a breakup, it sounds like the end of the world, Dupre said.
Fortunately, the series doesnt stay stuck in a bygone era. There are artists you wish youd heard from Prince and Bruce Springsteen come to mind but Soundbreaking keeps up with changing styles and the diversity of creators. In the first episode, Dr. Dre explains that its very easy to make a hip-hop record. Its not easy to make a good hip-hop record.
GREENSBORO Three years ago this fall, Sherrill Roland was in a good place.
He had just started his second and final year of graduate school at UNC-Greensboro. And he had his very own Art 120 class, where he taught basic principles of design to freshmen.
On a Thursday, a day after his 29th birthday, Roland told his students not to come to class the following Tuesday. He and his buddies would be extending his birthday celebration by a few days. He would see them in a week.
What Roland didnt know on that Thursday in 2013 was that he wouldnt be coming back to UNCG next week or next month or even next year.
It would be three years before Roland came back to campus an innocent man with a sealed court record, a man changed by a year in jail for a crime he didnt commit. When he returned, he would wear a one-piece orange jumpsuit every day until graduation.
His choice of clothing is performance art, something that will help him get his masters degree in art. The jumpsuit project is also something else: a symbol of the far-reaching effects of the criminal justice system on so many people the inmates, their families, their friends, their classmates regardless of who they are.
Its to be a daily reminder that things happen that incarceration happens every day, Roland said of the project. It could be anybody. It could be me today, it could be you tomorrow. This happened while I was a student.
He snaps his fingers.
And in a blink of an eye, I was gone.
An innocent man
Roland grew up in Asheville, raised by his mother and a cadre of aunts and uncles. College wasnt an if in his house but a where. After graduating from Asheville High School in 2002 with a high B average, Roland chose UNCG.
Roland thought he would study to be an architect, but college life didnt take at first. His grades were poor I still had that high school mentality, he said and UNCG sent him home after spring break.
Back in Asheville, he got a job, enrolled in community college and got his grades up. Two years later, he was back at UNCG.
College went much better this time. Roland shared a house a block from campus with three friends from Asheville. He was always good at drawing, so he focused on that in college. He made deans list, spent a semester in England and in 2009 got his bachelors degree in art with a concentration in design.
Longtime friend Takele TK Woldu the two grew up together in Asheville and lived together in college said Roland is quiet and humble.
Thats just Sherrill in general, said Woldu, who graduated from UNCG in 2008. Hes not a tell-you-what-Im-doing-all-the-time type guy. Hes an artist. Hell show you what hes working on at the end.
After graduation, Roland moved back home and got a job at a warehouse and as a counselor at a juvenile home. At night, he worked on his drawings.
His passion was still design. In the summers, he taught web design and game design at camps in Virginia, Baltimore, New York and Washington.
In 2012, he came back to UNCG for graduate school. He had started working with found objects, mostly cardboard that he turned into roosters and shoes and portraits. The goal was to get his master of fine arts in studio art and then teach in college
Shortly before he started his masters program, a detective in Washington called to say there was a warrant for his arrest. He would have to turn himself in.
Roland missed his first day of graduate school to fly to D.C. The charge was a single felony. Roland wont say what it is except that it was nonviolent and based on somebodys lie. There was no bail set, and Roland returned to Greensboro.
The trial date was set for Oct. 7, 2013, five days after his 29th birthday. Roland told almost no one about the court date not his UNCG students, not his professors, not his classmates. He told close friends only that the court date was no big deal, just some procedural stuff for a minor thing.
Roland wasnt worried. His previous run-ins with the law had been over traffic tickets a decade ago. Plus he was innocent. How bad could this be?
Prosecutors later dropped the felony charge to four misdemeanors. After a two-day trial, a D.C. judge found Roland guilty on all four charges and sentenced him to 13 months in jail.
Without a chance to hug his mother, Roland found himself in handcuffs as bailiffs led him away from court. Suddenly, the UNCG grad student had a jail cell and a prison number.
His friends were devastated.
There are people who belong in jail, Woldu said. Hes not one of those people, but he ended up there.
A hard place every day
Roland, now 32, uses a few words to describe jail. Terrible. Dehumanizing. Scary.
Roland spent 10 months and two weeks in the Central Detention Facility, better known as the D.C. Jail.
The facility held about 1,500 inmates during Rolands stint there. Some, like him, were serving out sentences of about a year or less. Others were awaiting trial on serious felony charges murder, assault, rape, drug-dealing that could lead to long sentences, even life.
The fall Roland got there, The Washington Post was documenting the deplorable conditions at the jail that contributed to 165 suicide attempts in two years. That same fall, the District of Columbia settled a long-running lawsuit that alleged the jail unnecessarily strip-searched prisoners and held inmates weeks and months past their release dates.
Roland remembers not being allowed outside into the prison yard until April, six months after he got there. He recalls being hungry because the inmates who brought him his meals would sometimes take food off the trays. If the jail was locked down and no meals were brought, he and his roommate shared a cup of ramen, made with the lukewarm water from the sink in their cell.
Boredom was a problem, so every inmate, Roland included, wanted to be part of a work crew. But that involved filling out an application and hoping your pencil didnt break and catching the attention of a jail guard who might or might not file that piece of paper with the right person. (Roland eventually got on with the in-house detail, responsible for cleaning and painting the cell block.)
His time in jail cut him off from normal human contact. Roland got two 45-minute visits per week. Jail visits were done by video, with Roland in one building and his visitor in another. Otherwise, Roland kept in touch through letters.
Roland missed the birth of his daughter while he was in jail. He also couldnt go to the funerals of his grandmothers. One died while he was locked up; the other passed soon after he was freed from jail but still confined to Washington.
Its a hard place every day, Roland said. I used to tell myself congratulations at the end of the day in the sense that we made it through one day.
But Roland noticed some good on the inside. When he moved to a new jail block early in his stay, his new cellmate gave him clean T-shirts and underwear. Roland remembers one inmate studied an algebra book so he could help his daughter with her homework. People looked out for Roland because, as he says, they somehow knew he didnt belong in prison. Though these inmates had jail numbers and prison records, they were still fathers, sons, husbands and men.
Roland was freed in August 2014 after 101/2 months in jail. New evidence came to light shortly after that, and in early 2015 the judge who had convicted Roland less than two years earlier threw out the convictions.
Last December, the court granted Rolands request to seal the records of his arrest, prosecution and conviction on the grounds that he is innocent. The ruling meant, in essence, that Roland had committed no crime, had never been arrested and had never spent time in jail.
Though his record is clean, Roland cant forget that he spent nearly a year behind bars. Jail changed him. It strengthened his Christian faith, and hes less likely to let small things affect him. But hes more wary now, more likely to keep people at a distance, less likely to disclose much about himself.
It also left him with a lot of questions: Why did this happen? And how do I go on? It was hard to forget how low he had felt during his stay in the D.C. Jail.
It just felt like everything that I had worked for, everything I thought I controlled was instantly gone by somebody elses lie, Roland said. It crushed me.
Dropping the mask
After his release, Roland returned to Asheville. Adrift, he pondered his future. Going back to UNCG wasnt a certainty. How could he pick up his drawings and resume his studies as if nothing had happened?
As Roland talked to friends and families about his experience behind bars, he realized something: Incarceration lets loose a ripple effect. Though he had been the one in jail, their lives had been disrupted, too.
Rolands mom had been the one to call UNCG to tell them that her son was leaving school. One of his uncles had to pack up his apartment. His friends told of feeling cut off because their communication with him was so limited.
Once I heard those stories, I knew there had to be more stories out there, Roland said. I wanted to create a platform that allowed other people to share.
Roland approached several friends with the idea of returning to UNCG, putting on an orange jumpsuit and becoming a walking example of injustice and incarceration. They approved.
Its a therapy, if you will. Its a healing process, said Woldu, who now works for the U.S. Forest Service in Asheville. For all artists, their life is reflected in their work. This is his life currently. This is his work.
He consulted UNCG art professor Sheryl Oring, who said she thought Roland was meant to do this project. Another adviser, UNCG professor and honors college dean Omar Ali, set up a meeting with the campus police so officers would know about his performance art project.
My mom was worried about my safety, Roland said. These days in this world, you dont have to wear an orange suit being an African American male to get attention in the wrong way.
Roland went online and bought a pair of one-piece cotton-poly jumpsuits, size 3X, for $35 each. The jumpsuits dont have jail numbers or the letters DOC (for Department of Corrections) stenciled on the back thats intentional. But theyre bright orange and as close as he could find to the ones he wore in jail.
Roland commutes to UNCG in regular clothes and changes into a jumpsuit once he gets to his art studio in the Gatewood Building. He wears whatever shoes and hats he likes; in jail, hats werent allowed, and shoes were ragged hand-me-downs. Everything else undershorts, socks, undershirt are jail-issue white.
His jumpsuit has a pocket over his right breast a luxury, he said, because the jumpsuit he wore in jail had no pockets.
Roland set up rules for his project. He can move and talk freely in his art studio (his cell) and around the art building (his cell block). Outside of the art building, he must walk to his destination and back without delay. Like it was in jail, he cant stop and talk, but people can talk to him if they walk with him.
He communicates with people through letters because there are no cell phones or social media in jail. This month, he hopes to set up two video conferences a week, similar to the closed-circuit system used by the D.C. Jail.
These rules are an inconvenience to Roland. But they are also disruptive to people trying to contact Roland. Thats the point.
Since my world has changed, it changes your world and how you move when you try to connect with me, Roland said. Thats exactly how my friends and family or the friends and family of other incarcerated people have to change their lifestyles.
... Im asking you to do a little something different in order to give you the realistic version of how youd have to change if you met someone in that situation.
Oring went with Roland on his first cross-campus walk in his orange jumpsuit. They ventured out from Gatewood to the library, where Roland posed for a picture that Oring put on Facebook. They strolled to the student center and then returned to the art building.
All told, Roland walked the campus for about 30 minutes. He was nervous. A lot of people stared.
Academia is sort of an elite environment, said Oring, an assistant professor of art and his mentor on the project. ... You just dont go around campus talking about this. Its not accepted. Its a different world.
This project, Oring added, is allowing people to discuss something thats taboo.
Roland kept at it. In time, people responded. He said UNCG students and employees are sharing with him their own stories of parents and siblings and relatives who have spent time behind bars. Some talk to Roland because theyre curious about the jumpsuit and want to hear his story.
Last month, Roland built a mock-up of a prison visitation booth out of wood and Plexiglas and plopped it down on a table in the student center. Roland sat on one side and waited for people to join him. A couple of people did. Those conversations, Roland recalled, were beautiful.
But Roland said its tricky to wear an orange jumpsuit around a college campus. He sees the side-eyes, the look-aways and the stares at his back as passersby try to spy a prison number that isnt there. Some people have even hurried away from him.
His presence, he said, is intended to be a reminder of the injustice and incarceration that happen off campus. He hopes to change peoples perceptions and eliminate the stigma of incarceration.
Im not trying to be too intrusive, Roland said. Im trying to cause the smallest interruption out of the normal lives of everyone else who isnt affected by it.
Hes not sure when or how the Jumpsuit Project, as he calls it, will end. Its very much a work in progress. But the artist once content to hide his work until it was done has shed his mask and taken center stage in his ongoing performance.
The more and more Ive talked to people about what went on, the more and more liberated I felt. This is me, Roland said. I didnt want to hide it. I spent a lot of time hiding the fact that this stuff was going on.
In the sense of getting everything exonerated, thats like hiding it again. My hearts been broken too much to forget or suppress those kind of emotions.
Contact John Newsom at (336) 373-7312 and follow @JohnNewsomNR on Twitter.
Today
Overcast. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 67F. Winds light and variable.
Tonight
A shower is possible early. Cloudy skies early will become partly cloudy later at night. Low 48F. Winds light and variable.
Tomorrow
Some clouds in the morning will give way to mainly sunny skies for the afternoon. High around 70F. Winds light and variable.
Millennial Moms Review: 2022 Acura MDX is pretty close to the perfect family car
I dont know if perfect is attainable, especially considering weve got the world of options when it comes to modern vehicles. Were spoiled and, as such, we have very specific needs and wants. Driving-wise, the 2022 Acura MDX is one of my favourite ...
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By Juan Cole | (Informed Comment) |
Sting, 65, played a concert at the Bataclan Theater where ISIL terrorists killed 90 innocent people a year ago, in one of the worst attacks in the West in recent years. Although the attackers appear to have told their victims the strike was in revenge for French intervention against Daesh (ISIS, ISIL) in Syria, in fact it was probably the other way around. France only started flying missions against Raqqa, Syria, in late summer of 2015 because it got word that the organization was planning such an attack, and hoped to disrupt it.
In part, Daesh was hoping for a white backlash against French Muslims, which might drive them into the arms of the radicals and sharpen contradictions.
In part, such terrorism aims at hurting a powerful enemy. Terrorism is a weapon of the weak. Daesh doesnt actually have many positive assets, though it can cause destruction. It just has a few tens of thousands of fighters and is already in the process of losing most of its territory. Its leaders wanted to raise the cost for France of intervening against it in Syria, Mali and elsewhere. Hitting a country with a big tourism industry (7% of the French economy) with a terrorist attack on places like a Cambodian restaurant and a music venue is intended to inflict long-term economic harm. Moreover, they hoped to make an object lesson of France, in an attempt to intimidate other powers.
The terrorists did succeed in harming the Paris economy, which attracted 1.8 million fewer tourists this year than last, a loss of about a billion dollars. Hotel room occupancy was down 12% in the capital. The French government will also probably end up paying, over their lifetimes, some 300 mn. in health benefits to those wounded in the attacks of 2015.
It is easy to talk tough about carpet bombing the terrorists, but these were petty criminals from the slums of Paris and Brussels, and cant be hit from the air. Even bombing Raqqa is fairly useless unless it is in support of advancing ground troops.
It is also easy to blame all Muslims for the actions of a tiny fringe and to talk about barring Muslims from traveling, though if you did that systematically youd cut 1.6 billion people out of the global travel industry and that would bankrupt some of these companies. Moreover, hating on Muslims is precisely what the terrorists wanted you to do, so why be their patsies?
One step anyone who can afford it and who feels strongly about pushing back against al-Qaeda and Daesh terrorism can take is to plan the next vacation in Paris. Paris is perfectly safe, safer than most American cities. You are much more likely to fall down in your bathtub and hurt yourself than you are to encounter terrorism in Paris. And by having a nice vacation in the French capital, you can defeat the dastardly Daesh plan of harming that country.
While youre at it, make a side trip to the beautiful Tunisia, and spend some money there, too.
We can crowdfund an effective response to terrorist attacks on the economy aimed at harming tourism. That is part of what I mean by Gandhian anti-terrrorism tactics.
Here is what I wrote in this regard last summer:
Reject fear and reject hate. Find a local Muslim and shower that person with love and respect. Speak out against Islamophobia. Work to strengthen democracy and inclusiveness and basic human rights. Stand up for the raid on the Bastille of 1789, and the freeing of prisoners of conscience. Invest some billions, not measly tens of millions, in success stories like Tunisia, to promote democracy and economic growth.
So if you were planning a vacation abroad anyway, make it Paris instead, or Tunis. Undo the terrorism by having fun and spending a little money. Turn the world cheerful and bright and chase away the shadows of fear. A great man said that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.
Related video:
Straits Times: Sting performs at Paris Bataclan music hall
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By Arash Aziz | ( Globalvoices.org |
Among the foreign policy think tanks and pundits of New York and DC, few supported Trump or even countenanced the possibility of his election. Now that the dust has settled and the populist tycoon is soon to move into the White House, speculations abound as to what his foreign policy will be like.
What makes Trump hard to predict is that the 70-year-old billionaire has a history of zigzagging. He doesnt seem to be a genuine ideological right-winger, but rather an opportunist who marketed a series of what could only loosely be described as policies because he knew theyd play well with his right-wing base. Prior to 1987, he was a registered Democrat, before flipping to the Republican party, then to Ross Perots right-wing Reform Party, then back to the Democrats, thenafter Obamas victoryback to Republicans once more.
During the campaign, too, he took vague and contradictory positions and flip-flopped on major issues. Banking on Hillary Clintons reputation as a hawk and the US populations resentment at their countrys many foreign military adventures, Trump often appeared to take an isolationist stance, which sadly fooled even some left-wingers who claimed he was less of a threat to the world than his competitor. But on major issues, he often wanted more not less military intervention.
Trump advocated a higher military budget and an escalation of the fight against ISIS. While initially demanding 20 to 30,000 US boots on the ground, he later retracted this position and said Saudi Arabia should supply these forces. At times he said the UN-backed war in Afghanistan was a mistake and at other times he supported it. At the time of the UN-backed intervention in Libya, he supported bringing down of the countrys ruler, Moammer Gaddafi, but has since changed his position more than once.
It is safe to say that we cant pretend to know the direction of Trumps foreign policy. This seems to be evolving as the President-elect starts having to deal with a prospect of actually sitting behind the most powerful desk in the world.
What predictions can we then make regarding the possible Iran policies of the Trump administration?
Even though he promised to tear up the Iran Deal during the all three presidential debates, analysts have pointed out that he probably wont do that, especially as the deal has the support of other world powers such as EU and Russia, whose Tehran-allied president Putin Trump has wooed for a while. On the other hand, the Israeli commentator Zvi Barel has pointed out that if Trump actually moves on to fiddle with the nuclear deal, this would favor Iran, as it could portray the US as a violating party and enlist the help of others. What remains unsaid is that any such belligerence on Trump's part would also bolster the anti-reform and anti-deal hardliners in the Iranian establishment, some of whom have spoken favorably of Trump. Irans Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei came close to endorsing the business mogul when he said that they call him a populist because he speaks the truth.
What might make the Trump policy clearer is the make-up of his cabinet, in particular his national security team. This is where advocates of peace and democracy in Iran and the Middle East should find cause for worry.
Two of the main contenders for the position of Secretary of State are the former House speaker Newt Gingrich and the former UN ambassador John Bolton. Not only have both of these men supported a military attack on Iran and regime change there, they are some of the closest American friends of a notorious Iranian political-militant organization known as Mojahedin-e-Khalq (MEK) which is almost universally hated inside Iran after having collaborated with Saddam Hussein in the Iran-Iraq War.
MEK was designated a terrorist organization by the US until it was de-listed in 2012. After the overthrow of its patron, Saddam Hussein, in 2003, the group became mostly irrelevant and no figure of repute in Iranian politics would go anywhere near it after the evidence of the major abuses it perpetrated was laid bare over the last few years.
John Bolton also has a long history of support for MEK and is a frequent guest at its rallies. In March 2015, as the talks surrounding the Iran Nuclear Deal were reaching a sensitive stage, he called for a military attack on Iran and vigorous American support for MEK aimed at regime change in Tehran. Last summer, Gingrich spoke at MEKs rally in Paris alongside Turki bin Faisal, the former head of Saudi intelligence. Gingrich went as far as to solemnly bow down to MEKs leader, Maryam Rajavi, calling her by her favored title, President-elect. When running for the Republican party presidential nomination in 2012, Gingrich openly called for replacing the leadership of Iran, saying that this could be accomplished within a year.
With Gingrich and Bolton likely to be appointed to two of the highest national security positions in the Trump administration, will Rajavis totalitarian cult gain influence?
Other possible members of a Trump administration are also leading anti-Iran hawks. Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, tipped for the position of attorney general, has been paid handsome sums to appear at MEK rallies. New Jersey governor Chris Christie, head of the Trump transition team, has called Iran a greater threat than ISIS. Mike Flynn, possibly the next secretary of defense, is on the record as saying, Ive been at war with Islam, or a component of Islam, for the last decade and complaining about Irans lies, their flat out lies, and then their spewing of constant hatred, no matter whenever they talk.
Last but not least, one of the primary funders of Trumps campaign is casino-owner Sheldon G. Adelson, who endorsed him in May and gave $25 million to an anti-Clinton Super PAC last week. Adelson is known for having advocated a nuclear strike on Iran. This 25th richest man in the world is also a close ally of Israels right-wing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and a close associate of Gingrich, whose 2012 campaign he supported. Adelson is so close to Netanyahu that he pumps 50 million dollars a year into a free news daily, Israel Hayom, that attacks Netanyahus domestic enemies on both the left and the right. The two are so close that when there a bill that would have hurt Israel Hayom was tabled in the Knesset, Israel's national legislature, Netanyahu opposed it at the cost of the collapse of his own coalition government. The next coalition government was formed only when his partners promised not to bring media-related bills that could hurt Adelson.
Trumps Iran policy would depend on many factors, including his relationships with Moscow, Riyadh and Tel Aviv, his position on US military involvement in Iraq, Syria and Yemen, and the demands of the Republican-led Congress, the majority of which opposed the Iran Deal. But the links with MEK are a serious cause for worry, and the reason Iranians should be vigilant and make it clear that this cult doesn't speak for the people of Iran, nor they are genuine advocates of democracy in the country.
Via Globalvoices.org
Related video added by Juan Cole:
Euronews: What will Trumps presidency mean for the Iran nuclear deal?
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Maan News Agency |
BETHLEHEM (Maan) Israels Ministerial Committee for Legislation Sunday evening unanimously approved a law that would retroactively legalize outposts in the occupied West Bank, a decision Israeli human rights group Yesh Din said exposes (the Israeli) governments intention to annex the West Bank to Israel without affording its residents civil rights.
The decision came despite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus wish to delay the decision, and despite the Israeli attorney general warning to the committee that he would not be able to defend the the so-called Formalization Bill in the Supreme Court, as it contravenes international law and that there was no legal precedent for the expropriation of lands privately owned by Palestinians.
While the some 196 illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and occupied East Jerusalem are considered illegal under international law, a further 232 settler outposts were also considered illegal by Israeli domestic law. However, Israeli authorities have often individually legalized outposts retroactively by declaring them official settlements.
Netanyahu had implored that the vote be delayed until the Israeli Supreme Court reached a decision whether or not to postpone the evacuation of illegal Amona outpost after the attorney general reportedly warned that voting on the bill prior the court decision would would significantly harm the changes for postponement.
The Israeli State Attorneys office had requested the postponement on the basis that it could not arrange alternative housing for the residents of Amona before the target evacuation date of Dec. 25 this year, with Palestinian landowners filing an appeal to the Israeli Supreme Court last week rejecting the demands to postpone.
The legislation that was passed Sunday evening, after facing a revision, would apply only to settlements established with the involvement of the state which includes Amona, but not to those that were establishment without state involvement.
The Amona outpost was slated for demolition following a 2008 Israeli Supreme Court decision after eight Palestinians from neighboring villages with the support of Yesh Din successfully petitioned the court to remove the outpost on grounds that the construction was carried out on privately owned Palestinian land.
After years of appeals from right-wing Israeli government officials, and attempts by Amona settlers to prove they had legally purchased the land, an Israeli police investigation in May 2014 found the entirety of the outpost to have been built on private Palestinian lands, and that the documents used by Amona residents to try claim their purchases were in fact forged.
Meanwhile, Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat warned on Monday that any dismantlement of the illegal Israeli outpost Amona in the occupied West Bank would be followed by the mass demolition of Palestinian homes lacking Israeli-issued building permits in East Jerusalem.
Following news of the laws passage, Yesh Din on Twitter called the bill a legal stunt designed to sanction takeover of Palestinian land in the West Bank, saying it exposes (the Israeli) governments intention to annex the West Bank to Israel without affording its residents civil rights.
The bill is discriminatory and authorizes confiscation of Palestinian landowners ability to use their land denying them the right to appeal.
Human rights groups and international leaders have strongly condemned Israels settlement construction, claiming it is a strategic maneuver to prevent the establishment of a contiguous, independent Palestinian state by changing the facts on the ground.
Meanwhile, some members of Israels parliament, the Knesset, have publicly announced their support for plans aimed to annex the entirety of Area C the area of the occupied West Bank under full Israeli security and civilian control.
While members of the international community rested the solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on the discontinuation of illegal Israeli settlements and the establishment of a two-state solution, Israeli leaders have instead shifted further to the right.
A number of Palestinian activists have criticized the two-state solution as unsustainable and unlikely to bring durable peace, proposing instead a binational state with equal rights for Israelis and Palestinians.
Via Maan News Agency
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TeleSur |
U.S. president-elect Donald Trump didnt back down from his hardline stance on immigration Sunday in his first interview since winning the election, pledging to deport up to 3 million undocumented immigrants immediately upon taking office.
What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people, probably 2 million it could be even 3 million we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate (them), Trump told CBSs 60 Minutes.
The comments keep pace with Trumps racist and unfounded campaign rhetoric that accused Mexican immigrants of being rapists and criminals. On the campaign trail, he promised to deport all undocumented immigrants in the United States a whopping 11 million people who pay US$11.6 billion or more per year in taxes, according to the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy.
Trump also continued to tout his campaign promise of erecting a massive wall along the border with Mexico, saying that after the border is secure and after everything gets normalized, authorities would make a determination on other undocumented immigrants living in the country.
When asked whether talk about a border fence aligned with his plans for the U.S.-Mexico border, Trump said that some sections of the border could be covered with a fence, while others would get the full wall he garnered harsh criticism for proposing during his campaign. He claimed a wall would be more appropriate for certain areas," saying Im very good at this, its called construction.
The comments are directly at odds with what Republican speaker of the house Paul Ryan has said to tone down Trumps incendiary comments, revealing lasting rifts between the Republican establishment and the upstart reality TV star-turned-politician.
Were not planning on erecting a deportation force, Ryan told CNNs State of the Union Sunday. Donald Trumps not planning on that.
Ryan distanced himself from the Trump during the campaign, particularly when recordings broke revealing Trump had bragged about sexually assaulting women. But since the election Tuesday, Ryan has said he is very excited to work with Trump and the Republican-controlled Congress.
As part of his anti-immigration rhetoric, Trump has also expressed plans to end birthright citizenship, meaning the children of undocumented immigrants would also be considered undocumented, even if they live their entire lives in the United State. He is also expected to attack Obamas Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, aimed at protecting from deportation thousands of people who arrived to the country as children. Trump has slammed Obama for being soft on immigration, despite the fact that his presidency say record levels of deportation and some 2.5 million people kicked out of the country.
While the details of Trumps proposed immigration policy remain foggy, Latinos and other immigrants are already fearful for good reason of the possibility of impending deportation.
Via TeleSur
Related video added by Juan Cole:
Wochit News: Trump Says He Would Immediately Deport Two to Three Million Undocumented Immigrants
The Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Columbia (FARC) reached a peace agreement Saturday to end the guerrilla warfare that has been plaguing the country for more than five decades. Meeting in Havana, the two sides solidified a new deal [El Tiempo report, in Spanish] that alters the deal voters rejected [JURIST report] in last months referendum. The new deal includes provisions [Reuters report] for FARC fighters to face jail and community service, for the FARC to turn over financial information, and for investigations of crimes to be commenced within the narrower window of next two years. It is unclear whether the new agreement will also face a voter referendum for approval.
The conflict between the FARC and the Colombian government had continued for more than half a century and claimed more than 220,000 lives [CNN report]. The Colombian government and the FARC finalized [JURIST report] a previous agreement [text, in Spanish] in August to end the lengthy conflict, which followed a cease-fire accord in June [JURIST report]. However, the previous agreement was stymied by a slim rejection by voters [JURIST report], by a vote of 50.2%. In January the UN Security Council made peace in Colombia a priority [JURIST report], and Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos [official site] won the Nobel Peace Prize [NYT report] last month for his efforts to end the decades long conflict.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) [advocacy website] on Monday urged [official statement] Germany Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier [official website] to push Turkey to cease post-coup abuses. Steinmeier will visit the country later this week, and HRW claims he will be in a prime position to discuss potential abuses concerning the alleged illegitimate efforts to bring coup perpetrators to justice, the arrest of dissenting journalists and allegations of torture in Turkish prisons. Further, HRW urged Germany to use its prominent position at the Council of Europe, the UN Human Rights Council, and the Organization for Cooperation and Security in Europe [official websites] to bring those bodies to bear in addressing the situation in post-coup Turkey. HRWs call comes after Steinmeiers speech to the Bundestag [text, in German] last week, in which he condemned Julys attempted coup in Turkey while questioning whether the countrys response was consistent with the rule of law.
The aftermath of the failed coup attempt continues as Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan [BBC profile] vowed [JURIST report] that those involved in the coup would pay a heavy price. On Saturday, Turkey significantly halted the activities of 370 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) including human rights and childrens groups to investigate the groups alleged terror connections [JURIST report]. On Thursday the president of the UN Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals, Theodor Meron, demanded [JURIST report] the release of Turkish judge Aydin Sefa Akay in an address to the UN General Assembly. Early in November, the Turkish Government arrested [JURIST report] eight pro-Kurdish political party members, including the partys two leaders Selahattin Demirtas and Figen Yuksekdag and an additional nine party members. In September, Turkish Justice Minister Bekir Bozdag said that approximately 32,000 people have been arrested [JURIST report] and 70,000 have been questioned. In late October, Turkeys government dismissed 10,000 additional civil servants [JURIST report] and closed 15 more media outlets for their supposed connection with US-based religious leader Fethullah Gulen, whom Turkey has accused of orchestrating the attempted coup in July. Also in October, officials detained [JURIST report] and searched the homes of 13 reporters alleging that they published stories seeking to legitimize those participating in the coup.
The Israeli High Court of Justice (HCJ) [official website] ruled Monday that a controversial West Bank settlement must be dismantled by December 25. The settlement, Amona [Times of Israel backgrounder], had been the subject of negotiations between the state and various other legal and legislative bodies [Jerusalem Post report]. In 2014, the HCJ ruled that Amona had been built without permission on private Palestinian land and gave the state two years to raze the settlement. On Monday, the HCJ rejected the states request for seven more months in which to complete evacuation of Amona, and enforced the deadline set in the its earlier decision.
Recent conflicts between Israel and Palestine [HRW backgrounder] over settlements in the occupied West Bank have raised concerns over possible human rights violations. This past week, Israels Ministerial Committee for Legislation unanimously approved the Formalization Bill, which will legalize outposts in the West Bank. In part, the bill was intended to stop the evacuation of Amona outpost [JURIST report]. In March the spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said [JURIST report] that the office is concerned about the apparent extra-judicial execution of a Palestinian man in the West Bank. In January Human Rights Watch (HRW) urged [JURIST report] businesses to cease operations in Israel settlements. In August 2015 UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged both sides of the conflict [JURIST report] to reconcile and move towards peace after an attack occurred in the West Bank village of Duma, where Jewish extremists allegedly set fire to a Palestinian home while a family slept inside. Last April HRW alleged [HRW report] that Israeli settlement farmers in the occupied West Bank are using Palestinian child laborers in dangerous conditions in violation of international laws.
While car (ride) sharing has been around since the 1950s, it only really came of age in the 1990s with a number of small-scale schemes dotted across Europe and North America. Since then its use has become widespread in the shared economy. This research snapshot reviews some of the latest car sharing schemes on offer, prospects for self-driving car sharing and the implications for car interior design.
Car sharing schemes allow us to rent cars for a short period on an as-needed basis. The Daimler-owned car2go car sharing community has grown to exceed 2m, of whom 1.1m are in Europe. It is estimated that every 1.5 seconds, one of car2gos 14,000 vehicles worldwide takes a member where they need to go.
Who is doing what?
With the proliferation of the shared economy model, most automakers have a car sharing scheme on offer. For its part, Nissan is pioneering a shared car ownership service which will allow members (3 to 5 members per group) to part-own a Micra. A digital platform hosted by the automaker will match local groups (using social profiling and geo-location) with compatible driving needs. Members of the new scheme, known as Nissan Intelligent Get & Go Micra, will split the monthly parking and fuel costs in proportion to their actual use of the pool car. In order to join the scheme, they will be required to sign up for a 12-month contract. Annual membership fees include car insurance, servicing and access to an app regarding their cars availability and whereabouts.
Talking of apps, Jaguar Land Rover has launched InMotion, a new technology business that builds apps and on-demand services for the blossoming car sharing market. Although JLR owns InMotion, the start-up company operates independently from the carmaker.
Earlier this year, Magna International launched a pilot ride share programme using an SPLT app offering it to 1,700 employees who commute to four of its southeast Michigan locations. SPLT provides the app-based ride share platform which allows co-workers commuting along similar corridors to locate one another and share the ride to and from work using their own cars.
PSA Group recently launched Free2Move that unites all of its mobility solutions, namely car sharing, fleet sharing, smart (connected) services, and financial solutions for car leasing. And just last week, we learned that a new car-sharing platform from Mercedes-Benz will go online in December 2016. Croove is the name of the new app-based service that pairs up private vehicle owners and hirers. The Croove scheme will be launched in Munich to begin with and is open to any brand of vehicle.
Meanwhile, Toyota recently revealed plans to put a new car sharing service through its paces that allows users to lock and unlock doors, and start the engine with their smartphone.
An opportunity or threat?
While some view the rise of car sharing as a threat, leading to lower sales volume, a recently circulated research note from auto analysts at Deutsche Bank suggests the opposite. Analysts claim that the rise of car sharing could actually create new opportunities for automakers and that the view of a shrinking market could be incorrect.
The banks team agree that the vehicle fleet will likely fall as vehicle utilisation rises, with population density serving as a key determinant of the size of the on-demand fleet. The net effect in the US could be to reduce the vehicle fleet by around 25m units. However, they point out that vehicles utilised more intensively will have a much shorter life-cycle just three years for an on-demand and shared vehicle, they estimate. The higher rate of turnover of a smaller fleet would, according to the analysts, see sales volumes rise.
The researchers also maintain that under the car sharing scenario, the auto industry becomes less cyclical, as miles travelled, rather than the state of the economy and credit conditions, will drive sales volumes.
Self-driving car sharing
Taking car sharing to the next stage and merging it with the imminent prospect of self-driving cars appearing on a road near you, earlier this year GM and Lyft a car share start-up partnered to create an integrated network of on-demand autonomous vehicles in the US. GM has since invested in Lyft which operates a variety of lift and car sharing programmes using Mavern and Express Drive. Last summer, Lyft and GM further expanded their Express Drive short-term vehicle access programme to California and Colorado, to include the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV. In a surprise move, GM recently let it be known that it will partner with Lyft rival Uber to provide drivers with GM vehicles under its Maven car share umbrella. GM stated that Maven, General Motors personal mobility brand, and Uber will team up to provide people who want to drive and earn money on the Uber platform the option to lease qualified vehicles by the week or longer at discounted rates with no mileage limits. These moves are not the only example of automakers quickly forming alliances to avoid being bound by technology giants. Last year, Audi, BMW and Daimler teamed up to acquire Here, a mapping service, from Nokia, in a move that reduces their dependence on Google Maps.
Self-driving car sharing is already under trial. Last September, Uber kicked off a self-driving ride-hail trial in Pittsburgh, US, where it owns a research centre. The self-driving Ubers in the test will have a safety driver in the front seat because they require human intervention in many conditions, including bad weather. Uber also remarked that even when these technology issues get fixed, we believe ride sharing will be a mixwith services provided by both drivers and Self-Driving Ubers.
MITs Senseable City Lab and Uber launched a research initiative earlier this month to explore how car and ride sharing networks could reshape the future of urban mobility. The initiative will explore new mobility paradigms for the 21st century, building on both parties data and analytics strengths. The Senseable City Lab has been researching ride sharing since 2014. With self-driving cars taking to the road, sharing could potentially significantly increase. A shared self-driving car could offer one person a lift to work in the morning and then, rather than sitting idle in a parking lot, provide a ride to someone else in a family or in the neighbourhood. According to MITs research, this could theoretically lead to a city where everyone could travel on demand with just 20 percent of the cars in use today.
Implications for car interior design
How will the rising tide of car sharing impact interior design? Han Hendriks, vice president, advanced product development and sales at Yanfeng Automotive Interiors has some interesting thoughts on this matter. During the 2016 City Car Summit in Berlin, he highlighted the ever-developing automotive interior concepts due to the increasing demand of shared mobility and the new requirements of its users. To ensure maximum well-being for drivers, Hendricks stressed the benefits of a convenient interior, enriched by ambient lighting, a good smell, practical interior design that supports the specific needs of car-to-go requirements and antimicrobial surfaces.
Hendricks also noted the difference between owned and shared cars, specifically the implications for interior designers, adding: Car sharing has a significant impact on the interior. Consumers buying their own vehicle spend quite a few hours to ensure that you order the exact car that you like. But with shared mobility, that one car will be used by hundreds of people who have not ordered that car. So the challenges for the interior designer will be very different. He observed how car sharing typically involves short rides in city environments. In 80 percent of cases, it involves one or two people. So very different from the vehicle that you order and buy for your family.
Some practical implications for the interior of shared cars, says Hendricks, is that it must smell fresh. The interior surface needs to be clean so [we] think about anti-microbial surfaces. You also want it to be an easy experience. So you enter the vehicle, and all the adjustments involving the seat, steering wheel, temperature and ambient lighting, adjust to what you like to experience. So you dont want to spend five minutes adjusting everything but an easy experience.
Other interior differences between own and shared cars relate to storage, notes Hendricks. One important aspect of storage in shared vehicles is that you have to have open access and visibility to where you put your items in a shared vehicle because you do not want to forget things. So a closed glove box will probably be something in the past.
If you then start to tie a couple of the mega trends together, like shared cars and autonomous, think about hospitality in that temporary space with lots of opportunities for new business models and service providers to enhance that shared vehicle interior experience.
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Ahead of the UK referendum to leave the EU, the countrys food industry association supported staying in the bloc, citing the overwhelming endorsement of its members to remaining part of the union. Since the UK voted for Brexit, trade body the Food and Drink Federation has claimed confidence within the sector has become more fragile and, without doubt, there are serious concerns about how leaving the EU will impact the industry. Adam Sopher, co-founder and director of up-and-coming UK popcorn firm Joe & Sephs, shares some of that anxiety but, in an interview with Dean Best, seeks to outline why he thinks Brexit can present an opportunity for food companies.
The UK food industry is, in many ways, one of the sectors set to be most affected by the countrys decision to leave the EU which remains very much on the cards despite tthe High Court ruling Parliament must vote on triggering Article 50, the mechanism by which the UK will quit the bloc.
The food industry is also likely to be one of the sectors most pessimistic about its changes outside the EU. According to the UKs Food and Drink Federation, which represents food and soft drink manufacturers operating in the UK, the EU accounts for over 70% of the countrys exports of food and soft drinks. The EU is also a source of a significant chunk of the labour in the UK food manufacturing sector. The industry employs 117,000 non-UK EU workers, benefiting from the free movement of labour between EU member states.
At the start of this month, the FDF convened a conference to discuss the impact Brexit could have on the industry. The mood at the event was subdued, if not a touch sombre, as delegates heard discussions about how Brexit could affect businesses in the areas of trade, labour, regulation and standards. Given the result of a survey of FDF members about Brexit last month, perhaps the atmosphere was little surprise.
However, at the event, there were some pragmatic messages coming some in the UK food manufacturing sector, including from Joe & Sephs, the fledgling UK popcorn maker set up six years ago and enjoying rapid growth. Adam Sopher, one of the founders of Joe & Sephs and a director at the Essex-based business, sat on a panel at the event alongside Gavin Darby, the CEO of Premier Foods plc, one of the UKs largest food manufacturers and, while both acknowledged the challenges faced by the industry once the UK leaves the EU, they sought to emphasise the opportunities that could lay ahead for food companies.
The export side is really exciting, Sopher tells just-food in a telephone interview two days after the event. My view on [Brexit] was anything from a business perspective that increases uncertainty is probably worth avoiding. Personally, I was very much in the stay camp because it seems like anything that could involve uncertainty is a bad thing. It wasnt a particularly political point. Now we are where we are. Im pretty positive about the next few years in sales.
There is a lot of uncertainty. No one really knows where things are heading. If you have the right attitude is a business, look with a more positive outlook then you will start to see the opportunities that all of this creates and youll start to react in the right way, I think. Theres not much you can do about commodity prices and theres not much you can do about exchange rates but you can react to them and take advantage of the opportunities that come from that.
The impact the referendum result has had on sterling and, as a consequence, on the price of some inputs imported by manufacturers has attracted mainstream headlines in recent weeks. Last months price spat between Unilever and Tesco, sparked by the slump in sterling, made national headlines, while companies like Nomad Foods and PepsiCo have subsequently attracted mainstream attention for their reported moves to try to push through price increases.
Joe & Sephs is a business that generated sales of just over GBP5m (US$6.2m) in its last financial year, which ran until the end of October. Around 80% of its sales are made in the UK, with retail customers including Sainsburys, Waitrose and Ocado. Joe & Sephs is a business that sources most of its ingredients in the UK and was, before the referendum, already facing pressure on some raw material costs, including butter, a vital ingredient for popcorn. Nevertheless, despite its domestic ingredient supply, a company like Joe & Sephs is likely to face pressure on other commodities and on packaging prices from the fall in sterling.
Speaking on the panel at the FDF event, Sopher said Joe & Sephs had yet to increase its prices but conceded the more likely trajectory is up. Talking to just-food, he says Joe & Sephs has yet to speak to its major retail customers in the UK, insisting the company had contracts to run on certain inputs. Because of all the various ingredients and packaging that goes into making the product, it would be a not very sensible thing to have the discussion regularly in an ongoing way. Once you contracted into butter prices, new packaging prices, new sugars, all these various things, you tend to agree to a contract for a year, anyway, at least. Then we will know, really, where we are in terms of prices. At that point, we can then start some of those conversations. Certainly, most people are aware. Everyone has read the news and everyone has seen whats going on out there. I think most retailers expect a conversation. Its just whether you will pass on any cost rises or absorb them.
Sopher outlines three ways in which Joe & Sephs will try to mitigate any pressure on costs. Two are capital investment to improve efficiency and changes in packaging. Were looking at things like faster labeling machines. Were looking at things like box formings. Anything like that, that doesnt affect the quality of our product but speeds up our process or improves the quality of our product, is basically what were looking at, Sopher says. Weve just spent GBP20,000 on a new machine. Theres another one arriving in the back end of this month. Were keeping momentum on bringing in more and more stuff to try and improve and drive efficiency where we can.
However, it is talking about the third plank of the companys strategy that most animates Sopher. Exports, he told the FDF panel and reiterates to just-food, will be central to how Joe & Sephs grows post-Brexit. There is a huge opportunity in export and were quite excited about that, Sopher says. Joe & Sephs already sells into 19 overseas markets and Sopher says the popcorn maker has seen some early benefits from the way the referendum result affected sterling and suggests the company is monitoring new markets where costs had been prohibitive.
Weve agreed listings in Iceland where weve never been able to list before because the pound was too strong. Weve agreed with new listings in Denmark. And whilst in Europe, the fall in the pound has been 15% roughly against the euro, if you go as far as Japan its more like 30%. There are new markets in Asia that were previously challenging because of air freighting our products over but the 30% fall is massive and it means those markets are now open for us.
Sopher sees benefits ahead in the countries that are already the main export markets for Joe & Sephs. He says there are five markets where Joe & Sephs is doing really well and where there is a lot more momentum to be had France, Germany, Scandinavia, the Middle East and Hong Kong. Looking at the euro-denominated markets, Sopher says, for example, the companys sharing bags of popcorn would have retailed at EUR3.99-4.49. Now we are managing to move the RRP down to EUR3.49, maximum EUR3.99. Thats really exciting, he says.
Sopher believes UK food companies, particularly smaller businesses, should embrace the opportunity exports can provide for growth. He points to a stat he has seen that he says shows only 11% of UK companies export, remarking he cant get his around why that number is not larger. However, Sopher says the UK government can do more, in the longer term, to help those that do want to export and suggests a rebate on a companys corporation tax bill. He points to the cost of exhibiting at last months SIAL trade show in Paris, which he says was around GBP15,000. My suggestion around this export tax credit would mean eventually it could halve the cost of going to places like the Middle East and taking on trade show stands etc. I think it will be a really powerful way of very quickly getting a lot more people exporting.
For the new financial year, the company is targeting top-line growth of around 50%, with an eye on expanding sales at home and abroad. The UK popcorn market has grown rapidly in recent years but it is becoming more competitive and this autumn saw the might of PepsiCo enter the sector with its Pop Works & Company brand, potentially putting pressure on the domestic growth of smaller companies like Joe & Sephs. Sopher, however, insists he is positive about the news.
Popcorn is a category is here to stay. If you got someone the size of Pepsi having a go, thats really exciting and gives us a morale boost, in terms of the opportunities only getting bigger, Sopher says. When youve got a brand of that size in the marketplace, it grows the whole market. It means that supermarkets are dedicating more space to popcorn and looking for other brands to fill the gaps in their ranging. Pepsi have launched a more mainstream brand. Retailers are still going to be looking for good, better and best. We feel that best requirement. It will help us and we are quite stoked about it.
Sopher, then, is one of the, so far, few pragmatic voices in the UK food industry to go public with their views on Brexit. It would be wrong to say he is naively going into it without having weighed up the possible challenges that lay ahead. At the FDF event, he called on the UK government for support on the potential paperwork that could mount up on staff visas in a post-Brexit scenario where there is no deal on the free movement of labour. The possibility of tariffs, he tells just-food, is another obvious concern. We dont want it to be any harder to export. We dont want to have any of that increase cost and workload. Anything that could damage the business would be bad.
However, typically, he adds: What is quite exciting is the first time the UK can go and secure trade deals that are focused purely on British interests as opposed to balancing the needs of the whole of 27 countries. Who knows how good our negotiators can be to get a better deal than what we have now but there is an upside, as well, which is quite exciting.
Associated British Foods finance director John Bason on Brexit, M&A and grocery results interview
Nestles travel retail unit is a US$100m-plus business, which generates the lions share of its revenue from confectionery. Stewart Dryburgh, who heads the companys travel retail business, says the sector, while a small part of the Nestle empire, presents a strong growth avenue for the group. However, Dryburgh acknowledges it is also a competitive and fast-paced channel and those companies that want to cash in need to navigate some unique challenges. Katy Askew spoke to Dryburgh to find out more.
Nestle generates more than US$100m in annualised revenues through its dedicated travel retail unit, which has gained market share since the worlds largest food maker set it up in 1999.
The KitKat maker is aiming to capitalise on the expansion in international travel retail, which it expects to see as air travel continues to grow. There were roughly 3.45bn individual airport travellers last year. Roughly split 50-50 between domestic and international. And that is projected in the next ten years to basically double to over 7bn by 2025, Stewart Dryburgh, the general manager of Nestles international travel retail unit, stresses.
However, this expanding consumer base makes the high-traffic sector a highly competitive one in which to operate. Most people want to play here that is for sure, Dryburgh says. You have got at the moment [almost] 3.5bn people travelling through airports every year. And if you take the top 50 airports the likes of Heathrow, Frankfurt, Singapore, Dubai, JFK internationally there are 1bn travellers going through those airports every year. So there is a huge audience there in what is a relatively limited number of locations that they are going through.
Standing out in this competitive environment especially because consumers are not expressly travelling though terminals to shop but as part of their journey is one of the key challenges for companies operating in the sector.
That is a perpetual challenge no matter what channel you are in. A brand has to work hard to understand consumers needs and remain relevant. I have worked in big domestic markets like the UK, in emerging markets like India and I have looked after some of Nestles biggest brands including KitKat. No matter where you sit it is a challenge. Our challenge in this particular industry is to engage in a way that is relevant to the moment that consumers are experiencing. And that is a journey.
Of course, there are different types of journey, Dryburgh continues. This gives rise to two distinct need-states Nestle wants to meet through its travel retail range. It may be a business journey and if they are heading out they might want to take a gift to somebody who they are going to meet, or they might be heading back and want to take something to their loved ones. You might be going off for a long weekend and you want something more snacking oriented. There is a mix if you come very specifically into the confectionery world of gifting chocolate and consumption chocolate. The whole world of millennial consumer and the emerging middle-class consumer in Asia and LatAm continually creates opportunities for us. Then it is understanding how they can be relevant.
Within the travel retail channel, chocolate and confectionery comfortably account for 80% of Nestles sales, Dryburgh notes. The main category focus is chocolate and confectionery for the simple reason that is one of the key categories within the [travel retail] industry, he observes.
The pressure cooker atmosphere of the channel means that trends born out in travel retail frequently develop ahead of the winder market, Dryburgh suggests. I think as a whole this industry has done things that have been pushing the envelope. I think the challenge is always to stay ahead because often what you see being executed in this industry at certain premium price points then becomes translated into domestic markets. The continual challenge is to stay ahead of that curve.
Dryburgh points to Nestles decision to expand its Cailler brand via the travel retail channel as part of a push to internationalise the 200-year-old brand of premium Swiss chocolate.
We have been focusing in particular on Cailler as a first instance. It is one of the strategic priorities that has been called out by the organisation. Cailler is the original Swiss chocolate brand. It is the home of chocolate in Switzerland. It dates back to 1819 and Francois-Louis Cailler who set up the company making chocolate in the factory where we are [still] manufacturing at the foot of the Alps.
This is an undiscovered diamond that Nestle has been sitting on. I would say, Lindt & Sprungli have done an outstanding job of driving the premium end of Swiss chocolate without a doubt, I take my hat off to what the team from Lindt have done. However, Nestle is sitting on the first and the original Swiss chocolate. It is a strong brand in Switzerland, but we have not done a good job of internationalising it.
This year, Nestle kicked off activations first in Swiss airports, Geneva and Zurich. The company then piloted the brand in Dubai and Singapore, the two big hub airports heading east. Dryburgh says this roll out has gone extremely well. Marketing has included virtual reality point of sale activities to communicate the brands heritage and build a rapport with consumers.
Rolling out the brand to travel retail is a premier example of how Nestles travel retail business works to add value to the industry, Dryburgh says. The way you add value is giving consumers a reason to buy because they are going to get something they cant get at home. That is one of the things that people look for when they are travelling, part of the experience.
Ultimately, Nestle does plan to broaden Caillers base, but the company does not intend to roll the brand out in traditional retail channels. We are going to go high-end with this particular brand. I think the focus is very much on leveraging the travel retail channel as a spearhead in giving consumers the chance to engage with the brand in the first place and then encouraging them out.
While confectionery sales dominate Nestles travel retail sales, Dryburgh says the trend-setting nature of the sector and evolving consumer demand mean in the longer term the company is likely to capitalise on opportunities to exploit other categories.
You will be aware of Nestles journey in the direction of health science, delivering nutrition via food and health benefits via food, which is something that has historically always been part of what food brings you. Over the centuries people have understood the more holistic benefits that food can bring when consumed in the right way. That is also where our company is heading. For the future, [our travel retail business] tends to be far broader than confectionery and it will be far broader than that as consumer needs change with ageing populations. In the short term it is still going to focus on confectionery, he says.
Nestle is also taking advantage of some niche opportunities in travel retail that are created by local conditions, Dryburgh continues. For example, the company has developed interesting business selling milk powders in the Middle East.
The company spotted an opportunity to cater to blue collar workers who have come from the Indian sub-continent to places like Dubai as part of the citys construction boom. These individuals have a once a year trip home and the opportunity to sell them milk powder was a very interesting one What we discovered along with the airport authority was the opportunity to sell a relatively bulky, relatively heavy product like 2 kgs of milk powder in the airport duty-free store. The reason the consumer wanted to buy it there was because they didnt have to put it in their checked luggage and they could carry it on the plane. It is a very simple little story but it is a hugely successful business. And that is about understanding your local consumer and local needs. That is something that is relatively unique to the Middle East.
While Nestle picks up local opportunities such as this, they are not the core thread of the business because it would create such complexity that it wouldnt be worth focusing on, Dryburgh adds.
Nestles focus on international brands, such as KitKat or Cailler, does not mean the company does not tailor its offering to cater to local preferences. You have to deal with regional taste and you have to understand who is flying where. Often, in the bugger hub airports certain airlines fly through certain terminals You have to tailor your offering subject to the terminal and the airport. If you have a brand that is a global proposition like KitKat or Cailler well that proposition is quite universal it is just a function of how you communicate or engage with consumers around it.
Those operating in the travel retail sector face some unique channel-specific challenges. According to Dryburgh, while branded manufacturers still have negotiations around pricing the environment you work within and also the margin structures are specific to the channel.
This is different because of the nature of the industry. Effectively, the way the industry is set up now, the airport authorities as a general rule of thumb earn around 70% plus of their revenue comes in now from non-aeronautical sources, Dryburgh explains.
The very clever game that the airport authorities play is for the main duty-free store they auction the space off. The retailers come and tender for a five or ten-year contract. But it is a very different world to a domestic supermarket world retailers either win the tender or they dont, you are either in or out. That means they have to put a very specific sum of money on the table as a guaranteed payment to the airport on an annualised basis. And therefore they demand extremely high margins from brand owners to be in the stores.
The big four categories tobacco, alcohol, perfumes, cosmetics they are all offering 80-85% margin that is being earned by the retailer. But the retailer is having to earn that money because they are paying extremely high rental costs to the airport authorities. The airport authorities are the ones making the money, and they are ploughing it back into infrastructure because the whole sector has seen a dramatic growth curve. More people are flying so they have to invest in the infrastructure.
Overall, Dryburgh says the underlying growth drivers for travel retail are extremely positive. However, the sector does face exposure to very big peaks and troughs that track ahead of the economic growth curve.
For example, when 9-11 happened people tended to travel a little less and people werent shopping. The same when the SARS epidemic hit SE Asia back in 2003. That basically stopped people travelling in Hong Kong, Bangkok, Manilla. The industry collapsed. The Singapore industry collapsed. You can get some significantly negative downturns.
You can also get some significantly positive upswings. When the globalisation trend was at its peak you had some more Russians travelling, more Brazilians travelling, more Chinese travelling. There were some extremely positive growth years for the industry. It tends to follow a more exaggerated curve than global GDP growth you get very strong years and negative years. It is more of a roller coaster in that sense.
The Nestle executive concedes this aspect of travel retail makes the business more difficult to manage. If you have a crystal ball and you know what is coming you can do it very easily. But without one it is not so easy to call what is coming. It is one of the first discretionary spend items that goes. It is a challenging channel because of the peaks and troughs, but it is also part of the fun.
Dallas, 11/14/2016 /SubmitPressRelease123/
Most people have a general idea of what bail is and how the cash bail system works. In some criminal cases, the judge may set a bail amount, which means the accused must put up a certain amount of money before he or she is released from jail. If the accused appears at the next court hearing as promised, the bail money is returned.
Because many people dont have access to enough money to post bail on their own, they must use the services of a bail bondsman. A bail bondsman acts like a short-term loan lender in that they give the accused the money they need up front, but they keep a percentage once the accused has fulfilled their obligations to the court.
Recently, the U.S. Justice Department has weighed in on a case pending in Georgia, in which a criminal defendant has argued that the cash bail system is unconstitutional because it unfairly punishes minorities and the financially disadvantaged.
If you have been charged with any type of federal crime, its important to speak to a Texas criminal defense lawyer right away.
Challenges to the Cash Bail System
In the Georgia case in question, a 54-year-old man with a mental illness was arrested for a suspicion of public intoxication when police spotted him walking down the road. The court set his bail at $160. When he couldnt pay, he was forced to remain in jail for a week.
A civil rights law firm stepped in and filed a lawsuit on the mans behalf, claiming the cash bail system in the city is unconstitutional. The case is now pending in a federal appeals court, and the U.S. Justice Department has lent its support to the mans position. According to an NBC News report, there are several similar lawsuits pending across the country.
Research published in 2016 by the University of Pennsylvania Law School says that cash bail systems often punish innocent people by keeping them incarcerated while they await a hearing. Researchers also say that bail can create a domino effect of legal problems for indigent defendants, as they may be more inclined to plead guilty to a crime they didnt commit, simply so they can obtain an earlier release and get back to work for their family obligations. A White House report says that the number of un-convicted jail inmates rose by 59 percent between 1996 and 2014.
Discuss Your Case with a Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you have been charged with a criminal offense, and you believe the bail set in your case was unfair or discriminatory, its important to call a Texas criminal defense lawyer right away. At Broden & Mickelsen, we are Board Certified in Criminal Law and Criminal Appellate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
Get your free case evaluation from a Dallas criminal defense lawyer Mick Mickelsen today by calling 214-720-9552.
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After the back and forth with Brussels, a positive credit rating helped Portugal overcome its state of budgetary limbo, yet Lisbon was verbally downgraded by German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schauble.
Having received what seemed to be a green light from Economic and Financial Affairs Commissioner Pierre Moscovici in mid-October, Portugals left wing government drafted a budget for 2017, which was then approved with no surprises in the national parliament.
Favourable votes were cast by the Socialist Party (PS), the Left Bloc (BE), the Communist Party (PCP) and the Green Party (PEV), while the Party for the Animals (PAN) abstained and the right wing, composed of the Social Democrats (PSD) and the Peoples Party (CDS), voted against the text.
Despite the draft budgets parliamentary endorsement, intense negotiations between the parties are still ongoing, as the BE, PCP and PEV all consider the it to be insufficient. At stake are alterations to the regime of green receipts as forms of contracts, the income tax brackets and the extension of deductions of expenses for education, among other social and financial matters. The government is trying to curb the deficit it reached 4.4% of the GDP in 2015 by increasing taxes on alcohol and tobacco, high-value real estate, vehicles and vacation rentals, as well as introducing a sugar tax on soft drinks.
During budget talks, Left Bloc leader Catarina Martins tried to bring back the sensitive issue of debt restructuring. We noted, as everyone did, that the government accepted that we clearly need to negotiate a reduction of the public debt. It is an important development, she said last Friday (11 November) at the closing session of the debate on the general state budget for 2017. But Prime Minister Antonio Costa made no further comments on the remark.
The country in numbers
Portugals budget deficit ranked as the EUs third-biggest, behind those of Greece and Spain. According to the European Commission, the countrys deficit is estimated to account for 2.7% of GDP this year and is projected to fall to 2.3% of GDP in 2017.
Portugals 2015 deficit peaked due to the 2.2 billion bailout for the Banif bank. In an official declaration, Commissioner Moscovici noted that even without the bank rescue, Portugal would not have complied with the 3% threshold for excessive deficits enforced by the Stability and Growth Pact (SGP) rules.
In contrast, local and regional government and social security funds recorded a surplus. Portugal also saw investment growth of 3.9% in 2015, due to a strong first semester. Private consumption also grew amid a significant fall in household savings.
Nevertheless, according to the Commissions forecast, private consumption is expected to lose momentum in 2016 and 2017, due to elevated indirect taxes and a slight increase in energy prices.
Investment growth is expected to pick up again in 2017, supported by EU structural funds. However, these important funds were at risk of suspension due to the countrys noncompliance with official deficit targets. Portuguese Finance Minister Mario Centeno travelled to Brussels on 7 November to discuss the issue with Commissioner Moscovici. Having said two weeks ago that the budget only seemed to be within the EU rules, Moscovici created a fair degree of suspense. In the end, he did reaffirm the budgets compliance with the rules of the SGP, which guarantees Portugal access to the EUs structural funds.
Portugals GDP
Portugals GDP is expected to expand by 1.5% in 2016 and 1.7% in 2017. Overall, the year of 1999 saw Portugal register its smallest deficit of 3% of GDP, while in 2010, the deficit reached an all-time high of 11.2%.
According to the Commissions 2016 spring economic forecast, Portugals general government gross debt comprising currency, bills and short-term bonds, other short-term loans and other medium and long-term loans and bonds has broadly stabilised. It amounted to 129.2% of GDP at the end of 2013, slightly increased to 130.2% of GDP in 2014 and then gently dropped to 129.0% of GDP in 2015. According to Trading Economics, the GDP value of Portugal in 2015 (179.83 billion) represented a mere 0.32% of the world economy.
Endorsement from DBRS
The apparent success of the draft budget eased the crucial verdict from Canadian rating agency DBRS: a low rate (BBB) and a stable outlook. On 21 October Portugal breathed a sigh of relief after DBRS, the only leading rating agency to classify its sovereign debt above junk status, maintained a positive investment grade credit rating. The investment grade is a rating that indicates the credit-worthiness of corporate and government bonds. In other words, it is an assessment of the quality of a States public finances, thereby showcasing the estimated risk for potential investors.
This outcome brought great relief to the struggling nation, preserving the much-needed safety net from the European Central Bank (ECB). A downgrade scenario would have hit international confidence in Lisbons economic programme, excluding Portugal from the ECBs bond-buying scheme.
But despite escaping a junk rating from the Canadian agency, Portugal still faces serious challenges. According to the Financial Times, Adriana Alvarado, DBRSs lead analyst on Portugal, had said, We are still concerned about Portugals high levels of debt in a low-growth environment. But the government has shown a commitment to the EUs fiscal rules and is taking positive action on the banking sector.
DBRS is poised to revisit its rating in April 2017, further driving Portugals determination to combat high levels of public sector debt, low potential growth, ongoing fiscal pressures and high corporate debts.
Reverberations over Schaubles comments
Long known for his hard-line views on austerity policies and offensive remarks oregarding other countries, Germanys Finance Minister Wolfgang Schauble again sparked public debate after claiming that Portugal was on the right path until the socialists came to power in October 2015.
A former member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party, Domingos Lopes, accused Schauble of being insolent towards Portuguese sovereignty. Mr. Schauble has no interest in the will of the people expressed in free elections. What matters to him is his own political preference, which means that anything that does not fall into line with his plans is at serious risk of being subjected to financial interventions, he wrote for the daily Publico. Schauble descends from the imperial strain that does not accept a reality when it does not serve the interests of German high finance, Lopes added.
Commenting on Schaubles remarks, the President of the Socialist Party, Carlos Cesar, told the news radio station TSF that the German finance minister is a pyromaniac who presents himself as a firefighter and, referring among others to German investors in Portugal, stressed that his compatriots do not have the same vision.
The PM Costa chose not to comment directly on Schaubles provocative statements. He too told RTP news that he pays attention mainly to those Germans who are not prejudiced and who know Portugal and, hence, know what they are talking about.
Shadowing the long-lasting Greek turbulence, Dimitrios Papadimoulis, a vice-president of the European Parliament and head of the Syriza party delegation, joined the condemnations of the German finance minister. It is deeply disappointing to witness a single finance minister trying to block positive developments in another member state, Papadimoulis said. Schaubles stance goes against some of the fundamental values of the European Union, such as solidarity and collective decision-making.
Passers-by walk down the street past the American Apparel store in the Shadyside neighborhood of Pittsburgh on Wednesday, July 9, 2014. Gildan Activewear Inc. says it has signed a deal to buy the American Apparel brand for $66 million. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP, /Keith Srakocic
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Bill* stops by the clinic about once a week to use the phone in our lobby. Karen* asked if she could have her mail sent here. Once we bought Daniel* a bag of groceries, and Frank* calls to speak to our nurse every few days because he says, Im lonely.
There is a national push to re-envision our primary care clinics as patient-centered medical homes, with the intention that a patient can get all their medical needs coordinated in one location, thereby minimizing logistic barriers to care, and providing the benefits of continuity care provider relationships. This is a sentiment that has long been embodied by family medicine clinics, for good reason: Strong care relationships, centralization of services, and provision of convenient, effective medical care can lead to better health outcomes.
But some of our patients need more than a medical home. They simply need a home. A place to get their mail. A place to make phone calls. A place to catch up with kind people. Familiar faces. Compassionate listeners. Human beings who care about them as fellow human beings. Personal connections. A friend.
Should primary care clinics serve that role?
Our patients intuition is correct: They will find kindness here. Our clinic is a small team of incredibly dedicated, compassionate, thoughtful, skillful caregivers, all committed to providing the best care for our patients so that they can attain and maintain the best of health.
But for many of our patients (the majority of whom are on Medicaid), what they are seeking to heal is far more than their rash, diabetes, or headaches. For many of them, their emotional and psychosocial fabric is completely torn. Their relationships are fractured, their psychiatric conditions severe. Some of them suffer from substance addiction, or debilitating injuries. Some lack the resources to clean and feed themselves. Some have no supportive relationships: no family, no friends, or even worse family or friends who harm them. And many of our patients lack compassion for themselves.
So they turn to our clinic. A place where every person treats them with respect, listens to their concerns, validates their fears, offers solutions. And thus the dilemma: despite our sincere compassion and commitment to their health, the emotional and personal needs of our patients are beyond the scope of care that we can or should provide as a medical clinic.
In modern American culture, individuals are increasingly isolated and disconnected. It is difficult to pinpoint any one event, trend, or cause: Poverty? Erosion of the extended family? Expansion of technology and social media? Dissolution of urban neighborhoods? The American emphasis on individuality? The opioid epidemic? Untreated mental health disorders? All of these factors, and many others, contribute to our current situation, where people are left without a community to catch them in times of need. No sibling to drive them to their doctors appointment, no neighbor to check on their house, no church or school group to notice if anything seems amiss, no friend to call to simply say hello.
A social worker could address certain concerns by connecting patients with social services; unfortunately, like so many other clinics, we do not have a social worker, because of the limited hospital-system budget. A counselor can provide critical psychological support to our patients, and we are fortunate to have such professionals in our clinic. But for many patients, these services cannot fix their profound social isolation, and it is not the role of the clinic or clinician to fill that need. We must be cautious about reaching beyond our professional roles, because despite our best intentions, we may not help them, and we could actually cause harm.
After we bought groceries for Daniel that one time, he started asking for cash. Our staff continues to speak to Frank for hours at a time; sometimes he threatens to do something drastic if we say we have to get off the phone, and he recently asked us to help him acquire a new cat. When Bill uses the phone in the waiting room, sometimes he yells, and sometimes he smells, and sometimes he hits on the receptionists, who handle this well, but the other patients look uncomfortable. Furthermore, these patients often consume significant amounts of time and emotional energy from our clinical team, leading to feelings of burnout.
Our clinic provides exceptional medical care to our patients, but we are not equipped to provide the comprehensive emotional care and social support relationships that our patients so desperately need. When we identify a patient with such needs, and feel the impulse to help, we must recognize the reality of our professional limitations. It is unfortunate that in our desire to help our patients in non-medical ways, sometimes we cause harm by enabling them, perpetuating relationships of dependency, or overextending resources to the detriment of our other patients or even ourselves. Of course, there are some obvious situations where we can draw cleaner boundaries. But it is not so easy to simply stop helping our patients when their needs are so overwhelming, while the community resources are so few.
Societal-level problems require societal-level solutions. We must, as a society, research what cultural, political, and economic pressures have led to the social and emotional isolation that leaves so many people drifting and helpless, with no one to turn to for support but the kind people at their doctors office. It is only through such broad self-inquiry that we can, as a country, develop solutions that permeate through all of our communities, down to the individual level, to renew the supportive interpersonal relationships that these days seem fewer and farther between. Of course, such an optimistic vision for the future will take immense time and effort to realize. In the meantime, while our clinic cannot replace the relationships that make up a persons home, we will keep providing our patients kind, compassionate, and excellent care at our patient-centered medical home.
* Identifying information changed for patient privacy.
Belinda Fu is a family physician.
Image credit: Shutterstock.com
National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week kicks off with the help of a local company.
This is the second year of the Laredo Bethany House's campaign "Feeding the Hungry and Sheltering the Homeless."
Convergys employees have decided to raise money rather than clothes and shoes. Employees wanted this year's donations to be more personal, according to Convergys Director of Operations Robert Juarez: "We have roughly almost 1,400 employees, donated money, and we worked to give support to the Bethany House."
The total amount collected was $7,777.
Senator Judith Zaffirini has pre-filed the first 41 Senate Bills and the first Senate joint resolutions of the next legislative session this January.
Of the 42 bills filed, six relate to higher education, two on public education and four on health and human services.
Her bills include the following:
SB 31, which would prohibit texting while driving.
SB 32, which would establish a successor to the B-On-Time Loan Program to provide low interest loans to high-achieving, low-income college students.
SB 33, which would reform the TEXAS Grant financial aid program to incentivize timely graduation and maximize limited funding.
SB 34, which would expand the use of outcomes-based funding in higher education to promote timely graduation and degree completion.
SB 35, which would create universal pre-k for all four-year olds and expand half-day pre-k to qualifying at-risk three-year olds.
SB 36-41, which would continue reforms to Texas' guardianship system begun during the 2015 legislative session.
SB 42, which would implement the Texas Judicial Council's recommendations to improve security at Texas' courthouses and courtrooms.
SB 48, which would established two annual, ten-day tax-free periods during which eligible low-income students would be able to purchase or rent textbooks tax-free.
SB 50, which would strengthen state laws against hazing.
SB 56, which would strengthen state agencies' cybersecurity plans.
SB 65, which would authorize state enforcement action against a cemetery that is discriminating on the basis of race.
SB 66, which would exempt vehicles purchased by active-duty service members deployed overseas from sales tax.
SB 68, which would require an elected official convicted of a felony crime to forfeit their pension.
SB 69, which would prohibit leaving a pet in a hot car and authorize a person to free a pet or a vulnerable person (baby) trapped in a hot car.
SB 70, which would clarify the requirement that employers provide earning statements to employees.
SB 71, which would help the City of San Marcos better manage restoration and environmental protection of the San Marcos River.
The Subtitle European Film Festival in Kilkenny from November 21 to 27 will host 16 Irish premieres of 32 European films from 17 different countries.
The festival will also host over European 30 actors and over 50 casting directors, in what has become the biggest casting event in the world.
The films will be screened in five different venues all of which are no more than a few minutes walk from each other. The nature of the festival together with the intimacy of the locations and the undeniable charm of Kilkenny city, makes for a magical week of European cinema.
Highlights include the Irish premiere of Graduation with Palme dOr winner Cristian Mungiu in Kilkenny to present the film.
Mijke de Jong, the Dutch director of LAYLA M will also be in Kilkenny, along with Aleksander Kott who will present both of his Russian films Test and Insight. Other notable films include the 2016 Un Certain Regard winner The Happiest Day IN The Life of Olli Maki (with lead actor Jarkko Lahti to present); and Parisienne (with a stunning debut performance from the French-Lebanese actress Manal Issa).
The brilliant Czech comedy (and 2016 Oscar-submission) about a racist parrot, Lost In Munich will receive its Irish premiere and the French-Turkish hit MUSTANG will also play the festival.
Other Irish premieres include When The Sun Shines from Denmark along with Dutch drama Out Of Love, Romanian award-winner Illegitimate, Serbian drama Next To Me and the astonishing debut picture from Polish director, Jan P. Matuszynski called The Last Family. All these films will have their leading actors in Kilkenny, notably Roland Mller who plays the lead in Danish Oscar-submission.
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Star scholar Isabel Balchada has launched herself into a career in accountancy after securing the highest marks in the country in Accounting Technicians Irelands Online Programme this year.
The 36-year-old Kilkenny woman returned to study after a 15-year absence and has since gained employment as a direct result of the ATI course, which she completed through the Institutes Online Programme.
I was unemployed prior to starting the course, although I had experience in office administration and book-keeping from being previously self-employed, she said.
ATIs Diploma for Accounting Technicians is recognised as the fastest pathway to an accounting career, and its Online Programme offers students the chance to gain the qualification in a flexible, convenient way.
The course starts from the basics so is accessible to everyone, whatever their background and it gives you a good understanding of accounting, taxation and company law to prepare you for a variety of positions, said Isabel.
I did my second year online and Id really recommend that option to anyone. Its more self-driven but you are given so many resources and support that you feel you are not on your own. I loved being back studying after 15 years and I intend to continue studying in the field.
ATIs Online Programme is delivered directly by the Institute. Students receive support from both ATI and its lecturers, including tutor support, recorded lectures and regular online assessments.
Students view a recorded lecture in every subject each week and there are also virtual classes, face-to-face weekends, subject and student forums and subject assessments throughout the year.
ATIs qualifications provide access to employment opportunities for a broad range of accounting and finance roles and will enable students to further progress to senior financial management posts.
Accounting Technicians are qualified accounting professionals that work at all levels of finance throughout the private and public sector, industry and commerce and in accountancy practices.
Our Online Programme has gone from strength to strength since its launch in 2014, and the consistently high results that students such as Isabel have achieved speak for themselves, said Gillian Doherty, ATIs Chief Operations Officer.
Ours is a pan-sectoral qualification which meets the needs of industry, practice and the public sector, and graduates enjoy exemptions from the full range of professional accountancy bodies including Chartered Accountants Ireland, ACCA, CPA, CIMA and IIPA as well as Higher Education third-level accounting programmes, said Ms Doherty.
ATI is now enrolling for a January intake on the Online Programme, which starts on January 9, 2017.
A Kilkenny-based writer has co-penned her first non-fiction book, Trapped in Iran.
This gripping book tells the story of Irish citizen, Samieh Hezari, who spent five years trying to get her young daughter out of Iran and back to her birthplace of Ireland.
Kaylene Petersen, who worked for over 20 years in editing and publishing in Sydney, London and Dublin, moved to Kilkenny in 2008 and worked with the Kilkenny People until 2010.
The Australian native returned to college and graduated with a BSc (Hons) Counselling & Psychotherapy earlier this year. She has recently set up a private practice on Patrick Street, Kilkenny, with two other counsellors.
Kaylene and Samieh first met in Dublin in 2005 at a charity ball. Together they wrote the book which was published earlier this year and has garnered positive reaction both at home and abroad.
We ended up sitting next to each other and got talking. I had never met anyone from Iran and I found it fascinating to hear about her life, which was so different to mine. By the end of the night we had swapped numbers and had arranged to meet again for coffee. Samieh was warm and genuine, there was an instant bond there, said Kaylene.
In 2009, Samieh, a mother-of-two, flew to her native Iran to introduce her younger daughter, Rojha (who was 14 months old at the time) to the child's father. The father then refused to allow Rojha to leave Iran, forcing Samieh to stay in Iran for five years until she managed to escape illegally with Rojha.
During that period, Samieh would return to Ireland (without Rojha, whose father had taken her passport and alerted authorities she was not to leave unless he was with her making it impossible for her to leave) to see if the Government authorities could help her. I was always happy to see Samieh, but those visits were always tinged with sadness because I could see her pain that Rojha was not with her.
As time passed the urgency to get Rojha out of Iran intensified as Rojhas father would be entitled to sole custody once she reached the age of seven. The childs father also placed a false allegation of adultery against Samieh - an offence that is punishable by stoning in Iran.
I was very concerned about them both as time was running out. Then, in November 2014 I received a txt message from Samieh saying she and Rojha had made it across the border into Iraq and to pray for them and she would be in touch.
A week later, I was standing at Dublin airport waiting for their flight to land. It was very surreal. I hadn't seen Rojha since she was a 14-month-old baby and now she was a six-year-old girl.
In December 2014, Samieh decided to write her story to make people aware of what had happened. Together the friends managed to secure a publishing deal with Indiana University Press.
Trapped in Iran was chosen as one of only three non-fiction titles to be presented on the author stages at Book Expo America in Chicago the biggest book expo in America - which was held in May this year. It was very exciting and a great project to be involved in. I always knew Sami's story was extraordinary and would have wide appeal, added Kaylene.
Trapped in Iran is available in Dubray Books in the Market Cross Shopping Centre and other book stores.
Story
VANCOUVER, Wash. Five months after a 96-car train carrying Bakken crude derailed in the Columbia River Gorge triggering a major fire, causing the evacuation of a nearby school and contaminating the groundwater elected leaders gathered to discuss strategies to prevent a similar disaster from occurring in the Northwest.
King County Executive Dow Constantine who is also chair of the Safe Energy Leadership Alliance brought elected leaders from Washington and Oregon together in Vancouver following a tour of the crash site in Mosier, Ore. Had the train derailed closer to its destination, the blast zone would have covered parts of Tacoma, one of the largest population centers in the region.
"After years of seeing major oil-train disasters devastate communities in other parts of Canada and the U.S., the Pacific Northwest has now experienced it first-hand," said Executive Constantine. "Oil and coal companies reap the profits, while local communities are left with the cost and the risk. That's why we stand united as cities, counties, states and tribes to protect our people, our economy, and our environment."
The alliance includes 165 elected leaders from five Northwest states plus British Columbia pushing federal regulators to consider the full risks and impacts that transporting coal and oil have on local communities. That includes the impact on public health, public safety, traffic, and treaty rights. They also support state and federal legislation to improve safety along rail and barge lines.
The tide has turned against coal-export terminals in recent years. Six years ago, there were proposals to build six terminals across the Northwest. Today, only one of those proposals is being considered, in Longview, Wash. Earlier this year, the U.S. Corps of Engineers denied a permit request to build a large coal-export facility near Bellingham, Wash., upholding the treaty rights of Lummi Nation.
There is still a proposal to build a major oil-export terminal in Vancouver, which would be the largest facility of its kind in North America. If the Tesoro Savage Terminal is approved and built, more than 360,000 barrels of flammable crude would arrive in Vancouver each day.
"We are invigorated to action not only by the June 3rd derailment, but also by the daunting realization that the Columbia River Gorge could become a superhighway for fossil fuel transportation if these terminals are allowed," said Arlene Burns, Mayor of Mosier, Ore.
"The continued transportation of crude oil by rail threatens our community of Hood River and every other community along the rail line within the blast zone," said Peter Cornelison, a City Councilmember in Hood River, Ore. "The unsafe condition of the rail lines and tank cars -- which are not designed to withstand high impact -- further increase the danger. We are literally playing Russian roulette with the safety of communities next to railroads."
During today's meeting, alliance members will discuss how new safety regulations signed by Washington Gov. Jay Inslee and Oregon Gov. Kate Brown will be implemented. They will also be briefed on the Mosier crash, plan for the next state legislative sessions and discuss the status of proposed coal- and oil-transport facilities.
Relevant links
Quotes
After years of seeing major oil-train disasters devastate communities in other parts of Canada and the U.S., the Pacific Northwest has now experienced it first-hand. Oil and coal companies reap the profits, while local communities are left with the cost and the risk. That's why we stand united as cities, counties, states and tribes to protect our people, our economy, and our environment. Dow Constantine, King County Executive
We are invigorated to action not only by the June 3rd derailment, but also by the daunting realization that the Columbia River Gorge could become a superhighway for fossil fuel transportation if these terminals are allowed. Arlene Burns, Mayor of Mosier, Ore.
The continued transportation of crude oil by rail threatens our community of Hood River and every other community along the rail line within the blast zone. The unsafe condition of the rail lines and tank cars -- which are not designed to withstand high impact -- further increase the danger. We are literally playing Russian roulette with the safety of communities next to railroads. Peter Cornelison, Councilor of Hood River, Ore.
For more information, contact:
Chad Lewis, Executive Office, 206-263-1250
Kingstree, SC (29556)
Today
Partly cloudy skies during the morning hours will become overcast in the afternoon. High 77F. Winds light and variable..
Tonight
Partly cloudy skies. Low 52F. Winds light and variable.
HANOI, Nov 14 (Reuters) - Here's a snapshot of Vietnamese dong exchange rates in the official market and indicative SJC gold prices in Hanoi at 0050 GMT.
Nov 14 Nov 11 USD/VND mid-point 22,067 22,056
USD/VND interbank 22,320/22,340 22,325/22,328 SJC gold (mln dong/tael) 35.45/35.82 35.85/36.12
NOTES: As of Jan. 4, 2016 the State Bank of Vietnam has begun setting the mid-point rate on daily basis, allowing dollar/dong transactions to move in a band of +/- 3 percent around the mid point. The dong's exchange rate against other currencies is not restricted by a band. Interbank quotes are indicative bid/ask prices.
One tael is equivalent to 37.5 grams or 1.21 troy ounces. SJC gold prices are quoted by state-owned Saigon Jewelry Co, the gold manufacturer.
Interbank offered rates are indicative, quoted from market sources.
For Vietnam market overview click on: Vietnam's bonds market auctions: Bonds auction results: (Compiled by Hanoi Newsroom)
HANOI, Nov 14 (Reuters) - Here's a snapshot of Vietnamese dong exchange rates in the official and unofficial markets, indicative SJC gold prices in Hanoi and interbank offered rates at 0416 GMT.
Nov 14 Nov 11 USD/VND mid-point 22,067 22,056 USD/VND interbank 22,340/22,342 22,325/22,328 USD/VND unofficial 22,520/22,570 22,380/22,420 SJC gold (mln dong/tael) 35.50/35.87 35.85/36.12
Interbank offered rates Overnight 1.2-2.1 0.9-1.6
1 week 1.2-2.1 0.9-1.7
1 month 1.9-2.5 1.6-2.1
3 months 3.5-4.7 3.5-4.6
NOTES: As of Jan. 4, 2016 the State Bank of Vietnam has begun setting the mid-point rate on daily basis, allowing dollar/dong transactions to move in a band of +/- 3 percent around the mid point. The dong's exchange rate against other currencies is not restricted by a band. Interbank offered rates are the latest indicative bid/ask prices, quoted from market sources.
One tael is equivalent to 37.5 grams or 1.21 troy ounces. SJC gold prices are quoted by state-owned Saigon Jewelry Co.
For more interbank rate fixings released at 0400 GMT, click on .
For Vietnam market overview click on: Vietnam's bonds market auctions: Bonds auction results: (Compiled by Hanoi Newsroom)
Egypt issues 688 mln euro in T-bills, average yield 2.3 pct -c.bank
CAIRO, Nov 14 (Reuters) - Egypt's central bank said on Monday it had sold 688 million euros ($738 million) in euro-denominated 1-year treasury bills at an average yield of 2.3 percent. The minimum yield was 2.28 percent and the maximum yield was 2.3 percent. ($1 = 0.9318 euros)
(Reporting by Ahmed Aboulenein; Editing by Robin Pomeroy)
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Kitco Metals Inc. nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in precious metal products, commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Kitco Metals Inc. and the author of this article do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication.
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(Adds minister comment, background)
CAIRO, Nov 14 (Reuters) - Egypt will hold its first international tender for gold mining concessions since 2009 in early December, Petroleum Minister Tarek El Molla said at an economic conference on Monday.
Geologists say that Egypt has mineral-rich territory that could be ripe for mining, but investors have said that commercial terms offered in previous tenders were unattractive and have kept the sector underdeveloped.
Last year the government said it wanted mining to increase its contribution to GDP to more than 5 percent from the less than 1 percent currently.
Egypt, which has had to contend with a severe dollar shortage since tourists and investors fled after the country's 2011 uprising, announced this year that it would hold a bidding round for new mining concessions but the tender has been delayed repeatedly.
Molla said that Centamin's Sukari mine, Egypt's sole gold-exporting mine, had paid the government $40 million in profits and $80 million in concession fees since last July.
The December bidding round would be the first since 2009, when a global gold-mining boom brought a handful of first-time investors to Egypt despite what some said were poor commercial terms.
Most of these investors left after the 2011 uprising, driven away by growing political turmoil and falling global gold prices.
(Reporting by Abdel Rahman Adel; Writing by Eric Knecht; Editing by David Goodman)
Robert Sager,19, right, works with Coffee Oasis Center volunteer Megan Sheppard of Seabeck. Sager, who is homeless and sleeps in a tent in Brownsville, is a frequent patron of Coffee Oasis. The coffee shop, which also works with homeless youth, hopes to build a shelter for kids ages 13 to 17. (LARRY STEAGALL | KITSAP SUN)
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By Rachel Pritchett
Plans are quickly taking shape for a shelter for homeless youth between the ages of 13 and 17.
The shelter would be at Coffee Oasis, a coffee shop at 822 Burwell St. in Bremerton that has also provided social services to homeless and at-risk youth.
The $1.2 million shelter, which could be in operation in as soon as a year, would include the small restaurant thats there now and also an events room.
Two bedrooms would be upstairs, with room for three males and three females. Also upstairs would be a room to hold clothing that would be available for the teens.
Oasis is starting small, expecting to serve about 78 homeless teens a year. Executive Director Dave Frederick said other successful youth shelters have built up the number of visitors slowly.
Frederick said the shelter will be the missing link in services provided to the growing ranks of homeless in Kitsap County. Facilities for adult men, women and families are in place, but there is nothing for teens, many of whom are abused. At the shelter, they would get case management and follow-up care. They could stay a month.
Were talking an underage shelter, for which there is nothing, Frederick said.
Frederick and his nonprofit group hope to purchase the 5,500-square-foot building from the Bremer Trust for $250,000.
An additional $414,000 will be needed to renovate the old building into a shelter. In recent days, Oasis has received $250,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds from Kitsap County and the city of Bremerton, to be used for renovations.
Another $570,000 would be needed to run the shelter, in all making it a $1.2 million project.
Frederick has been hitting the service-group circuit looking for money and has applied for several foundation grants. According to data collected from schools under the McKinney-Vento Act, 313 students ages 13 to 17 attending local schools identified themselves as homeless in 2009 and 2010.
Frederick said the real number is higher.
The proposed underage shelter has drawn the support of Bremerton Mayor Patty Lent and homelessness author Richard LeMieux.
A plan by Catholic Community Services to build a teen shelter in empty storefront space in the Max Hale Center in Bremerton is now on hold. That proposal, which called for 25 beds, drew criticism from business owners and Frederick, who said it was too big and in the wrong place.
Oasis has grown, opening a Port Orchard location last year that now attracts as many as 20 kids on Saturday nights. It is also contemplating another center in Poulsbo and has built up a stable of 30 adult mentors to help the kids.
Its outreach effort has expanded, too. Staff search out vulnerable young people in known locations throughout the night.
A proposed encampment for homeless families in East Bremerton has no bearing on Oasis plans, Frederick said. That camp would hold families; the Oasis plan would be for kids.
A summit on homeless students in Kitsap County hosted by the Oasis, the Salvation Army and StandUp for Kids takes place Nov. 17 at Bremerton United Methodist Church. The free event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. will feature homeless youth telling their stories and homelessness representatives from local schools and the state. To register, send an e-mail to homelessness worker Sally Santana at sally.santana@wavecable.com.
To Help
Those wishing to contribute to a shelter for underage youth can contact Coffee Oasis Executive Director Dave Frederick at thecoffeeoasis@gmail.com, at (360) 509-8642 or visit www.thecoffeeoasis.com.
Nigerian national Chijioke Stephen Obioha Very soon, yet another individual is about to be executed in a state sanctioned hanging. According to Amnesty International, the Very soon, yet another individual is about to be executed in a state sanctioned hanging. According to Amnesty International, the date for the execution of Chijioke Stephen Obioha (a Nigerian national) has been set for this Friday, 18 November 2016.
On 9 April 2007, Chijioke was found in possession of more than 2.6 kilograms of cannabis, exceeding the statutory amount of 500 grams that under Singapore law triggers the automatic presumption of trafficking.
Also in his possession were keys to a room containing additional prohibited substances, leading the authorities to presume him guilty of possession and knowledge of the drugs.
In August 2010, an appeal against Chijiokes conviction and sentence was rejected.
In 2013, when amendments to Singapores mandatory death penalties laws kicked in, Chijioke initially refused to make use of his right to resentencing.
In April 2015, his clemency appeal was rejected and his execution was set for May 2015. Just one day before the execution, he was allowed to apply for resentencing.
Following legal advice that he would not qualify as a courier under the amended laws, Chijioke withdrew his application for resentencing. This led to the lifting of the stay of execution on 24 October 2016 and the setting of the execution date.
Chijioke has endured more than 9 punishing years in prison. He has been detained not for the purposes of treatment nor rehabilitation but for the purposes of awaiting execution. He has faced unprecedented mental anguish.
Changes to the law in 2012 gave him a glimmer of hope but this was again snatched away from him. To our knowledge, Chijiokes case is possibly the longest delay of an execution in Singapores history till today.
In Pratt and Morgan v Attorney-General for Jamaica, the Privy Council held that the delay of 5 years and 6 months which had elapsed since an accuseds conviction amounted to cruel and unusual punishment and breached his constitutional right not to be deprived of life.
A Door towards Hope
Arguments showing any prolonged delay in the execution of an accused could be capable of being a violation of human rights, as inhuman and as degrading. A plethora of international human rights instruments prohibit torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. This prohibition is also found in numerous domestic constitutions.
Studies on death row inmates reveal that delays and uncertainties cause depression, loss of the sense of reality, personality distortions, physical and mental deterioration.
Judges in several American and Indian decisions have decided that though the death penalty itself may not be cruel per se, lingering delays in solitude with the knowledge of impending extinction that amounts to cruelty.
There was opportunity for Singapore to address the question of delay in death row in 1995. In Jabar v Public Prosecutor the accused had been languishing in jail for over 5 years awaiting execution. His lawyers placed reliance on Indian cases and the Jamaican case of Pratt and Morgan, however, the Court of Appeal found dubious reasons to distinguish those cases and the one before them.
The Court in Jabars case concluded that the situation in Singapore was markedly different because the death penalty was mandatory here unlike India.
In contrast to the position held during Jabars case, Singapores mandatory death penalty regime had seen changes in 2012 to give discretion to judges in certain circumstances especially drug trafficking cases.
Also, the Court in Jabar overlooked the fact that the unambiguous finding by the Indian Supreme Court was that supervening events might render a lawfully and justifiably imposed death sentence unlawful.
We argue that the fact that the sentence is mandatory does not detract from the mental anguish and torment he had to endure as a result of the delay.
At this stage, we are not challenging the judicial death penalty sentence itself, but rather to its execution after such an inordinate delay.
We place little emphasis on the duration of the delay itself as this may cause unnecessary controversy in semantics in what is deemed as unreasonable delay.
It should also not matter also whether it was the accused himself who caused the delay as it would be acceptable for him to take every step conceivable to turn his ill fate around.
As a way forward, we wish to emphasise on the actual effects or consequences of the delay in depriving his life and personal liberty.
The Singapore Anti-Death Penalty Campaign and several other local and international human rights groups are working tirelessly to campaign on behalf of Chijioke to halt the execution.
The impending execution of Chijioke is clearly unlawful under international law and arguably under Singapore law. We are looking to work closely with our Nigerian counterparts and international community to make a difference.
We call upon the Singapore Government to reconsider its decision and commute the death sentence imposed on Chijioke.
Background
Nigerian national Chijioke Stephen Obioha is set to be executed in Singapore on November 18, 2016, Amnesty International reported on Thursday.
Mr. Obioha was sentenced to death on December 30, 2008 after being arrested on April 9, 2007 for the possession of cannabis. He was found with over 2.6 kilograms of cannabis, an offense which, under Singapore law, mandates the death penalty.
Mr. Obioha appealed his sentence in August 2010, maintaining his innocence, but the court refused to commute his death penalty down to a prison sentence.
According to Amnesty International, in Singapore, the burden of proof lies on the defendant rather than the prosecutor. The human rights organization explained that this is a violation of the right to a fair trial.
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Ravi,Singapore Anti-Death Penalty Campaign
By Tristan Baurick of the Kitsap Sun
A log chalet that has charmed backcountry hikers for generations may have worn out its welcome.
A flood of emails and letters sent to Olympic National Park tilt heavily in support of a plan to tear down the Enchanted Valley Chalet.
"Stop wasting my tax dollars on a building that should never have been built in the first place," said one letter writer from Pennsylvania, echoing hundreds of comments that favor removing the one human-made structure in an otherwise wild landscape.
Olympic National Park has received about 1,400 letters and emails since June, when the park announced it would seek a "final" solution for the 85-year-old chalet.
Park spokeswoman Barb Maynes said the chalet generated more comments than any other issue in recent memory more even than the controversial proposal to remove nonnative mountain goats.
"It was a lot," she said. "This was quite a bit more than the ones we've done in the past, but it wasn't a surprise."
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the three-story, 10-room chalet is considered an icon of Olympic National Park.
It sits more than 14 miles from the nearest road in a scenic valley of waterfalls and glacier-capped peaks. Built before the park was established in 1938, the chalet has served as a backcountry lodge, World War II aircraft lookout and park ranger station.
The chalet is threatened by the shifting course of the Quinault River. Building preservationists moved the chalet in September 2014, but the river quickly narrowed the distance. Less than 30 feet remain.
The park is considering three options for the chalet:
Do nothing and let nature take its course.
Take it apart before it tips into the river.
Move the chalet another 450 feet to higher ground beyond the Quinault's floodplain.
Comments on the options streamed in from 105 cities in 48 states and 12 countries, including Australia, South Africa and the United Kingdom.
About 30 percent of the input came from Washington state.
Park staff analyzed the range of opinions and divided them among 30 topics. More than 500 comments advocated restoring the valley's "natural conditions." About 460 want the chalet dismantled and its materials reused, while 420 want it torn down and burned at the site.
About 125 comments backed the plan to move the chalet.
"The Enchanted Valley Chalet could have a wonderful future, serving society in countless ways, all of which could enhance the appreciation of wilderness preservation," a Bremerton resident wrote in an email.
For others, the chalet is the antithesis of wilderness.
"I have hiked to the chalet before and found it obtrusive to the wilderness experience," a Portland, Oregon, resident wrote.
Hundreds of comments were emailed at the behest of Wilderness Watch, a Montana-based group opposed to the chalet's preservation. Wilderness Watch is suing the park to stop it from rehabilitating or reconstructing five other wilderness shelters.
"The area's wilderness condition would be improved by removing this man-made structure," was a phrase repeated verbatim in more than 300 emails sent to the park. Most of the writers were from outside the Northwest, and many expressed support for Wilderness Watch.
With the public comment period now closed, park officials will further refine the options and consider environmental impacts.
The lengthy, federally mandated assessment process the park must follow puts a final decision somewhere around spring 2018.
The river appears to have let up on the chalet, at least for now.
"A ranger sent a picture the other day, and it looked fine," Maynes said. "But all it takes is a tree to fall and a log jam is created and reshapes the flow of the river. You never know. It's a very fluid, dynamic situation."
Union petition calls for St. Michael leadership's ouster
A union leader said of the hospital's short staffing in the ER that the crisis was 'extraordinary.'
The Herald reports:
The Green Partys newest recruitment Chloe Swarbrick says she was approached by several political parties before she picked the Greens.
The failed mayoral candidate wont say which other parties tried to win her over, though Labour leader Andrew Little has previously expressed an interest in meeting with her.
I have always voted Greens, the 22-year-old said after confirming her candidacy this morning.
I just affiliate with what they do and Im on board with their policies and their values.
At a time when UK and US politics was becoming increasingly bitter, she wanted to be part of a positive change.
The party already has five Auckland-based MPs and several more high-ranking candidates based in the city.
However, it is understood that at least one of the partys MPs will leave Parliament at the next election.
Once upon a time the Southern Poverty Law Centre was a great organisation. They fought the KKK and white supremacist groups.
However they have lost their way as they have now starting labeling individuals who criticise a religion as members of hate groups showing an inability to distinguish between legitimate criticism and hate speech.
Lee Smith writes at Tablet Mag:
Late last week, the Southern Poverty Law Center, which became deservedly famous in the 1980s for combating violent white-power hate groups like the Ku Klux Klan and neo-Nazis, published a list of 15 individuals it labels as particularly threatening anti-Muslim extremists. It is sad but telling that the SPLCs so-called field guide to Muslim-haters is not a list of violent extremistswho certainly do existbut is instead a blacklist of prominent writers whose opinions on a range of cultural and political issues are offensive to the SPLC. The SPLC blacklist list contains practicing Muslims like Maajid Nawaz, ex-Muslims like Ayaan Hirsi Ali, foreign-policy think-tankers like Frank Gaffney and Daniel Pipes, and right-wing firebrands like David Horowitznone of whom could be reasonably described as anti-Muslim bigots. I spoke to Nawaz on the phone in London to ask for his reaction. A bunch of first-world, comfortable liberal Americans who are not Muslims have decided from their comfortable perch to label me, an activist who is working within his Muslim community to push back against extremism, an anti-Muslim extremist.
Yes they have called a Muslim who preaches tolerance and non-extremism an anti-Muslim extremist.
It seems the SPLC are the ones becoming the extremists. A pity as they have done much good in the past.
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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
Turkey will decide whether or not to reinstate the death penalty, not the West, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Nov. 12.
"The issue on the reintroduction of death penalty is also on the government's agenda. I said 'I, as the president, will approve the decision after the parliament decides.' The West cannot make decision regarding this, but we can," Erdogan said speaking during the funeral ceremony of Muhammet Fatih Safiturk, the district governor of the southeastern province of Mardin's Derik, who was killed in an outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) attack on Nov. 11.
"The forgiver of crimes committed against the person is not the state but heirs. This is not a crime committed against the state. The state can forgive crimes committed against it and that is another issue. However, the only forgiveness authority is heirs in crimes against the person. Therefore, what George or Hans say does not concern us. What concerns us is what the God says," the president added.
Amid the ongoing discussions on the reintroduction of death penalty in the country, a progression report by the European Commission on Nov. 9 noted that the rejection of the death penalty was an essential element, expressing the Union's concern on the issue.
"Regarding the renewed considerations to introduce a bill in parliament to reinstate the death penalty, the EU recalls that the unequivocal rejection of the death penalty is an essential element of the EU acquis and a central international obligation to which Turkey has committed," the report said.
Earlier this month, Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said a "limited measure" could be drafted to restore the death penalty, which was formally abandoned in 2002, with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reiterating that he would approve such a measure if parliament backed it.
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Source: Hurriyet Daily News, November 13, 2016
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Manama: Kuwaiti teenage students have been warned that they could face the death penalty or heavy prison terms for certain crimes following the decision to lower the juvenile age from 18 to 16 in January.
"Starting next year, anyone aged 16 or more arrested for a crime will be tried by a regular court, and not the juvenile court, which means the death penalty for some crimes," Bader Al Ghadhoori, the head of juvenile protection at the Ministry of Interior, said.
"Everybody, especially the students and their parents should be extremely careful about the significance of the change in the application of the law," he told students at a forum about the risks of misusing social media.
Under the current juvenile law, criminal penalties are applied to people who are 18 years and above, while special penalties are applied to those under 18.
Al Ghadhoori highlighted the importance of surfing websites and using social media, but warned against their negative aspects.
"Online sites are double-edged for they can offer great opportunities as well as ominous risks. The problem is not so much with the sites as with the one surfing or using them," he said, quoted by Kuwaiti daily Al Qabas on Thursday.
The official said that the most dangerous risks related to online sites were disturbances, strikes, demonstrations, mass absenteeism by students, sit-ins, underground organisations, terrorist and drug trafficking groups, alcohol, sex tourism, prostitution and organized crime.
Some websites work on undermining relations with brotherly and friendly countries, incite attacks on leaders, presidents and iconic religious figures and symbols, provoke sectarian and tribal feuds, ridicule and deride others, and spread rumours, Al Ghadhoori said.
"People should truly fear God and abide by the laws and regulations as several families and societies have been suffering from the negative impact of destructive websites," he said.
Kuwait's parliament last year approved a new law for delinquent juveniles that lowered the age of minors from 18 to 16 years.
The approval by 37 lawmakers and opposed by seven was in line with the drive by the authorities curb a sharp increase in the crime rate following calls by some MPs to take a tougher stance in order to protect teenagers.
The lawmakers who called for a lower juvenile age had warned that terrorist groups were working on recruiting young people and argued that strict measures were needed to foil their plans.
However, several activists said that the new juvenile age as approved by the parliament last year would be a violation of the teenagers' rights.
They said that young people should not be treated like adults and that a better option could be to slightly toughen their sentences.
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Source: Gulf News , November 10, 2016
U.S. admits 84,995 refugees in 2016
NOVEMBER 13, 2016 at 4:07 p.m.
The United States is taking the lead in meeting the unprecedented challenge of the global refugee crisis. At the Leaders Summit on Refugees in September, President Obama brought together world leaders on the margins of the UN General Assembly to galvanize additional humanitarian support, improve educational and access to lawful work for refugees, and expand opportunities for refugee resettlement.
The U.S. resettlement program serves refugees who are especially vulnerable; those who fled violence or persecution and cannot safely stay where they are or return home. It is the largest refugee resettlement program in the world. For each of the past several years the United States has offered 70,000 refugees new homes. In Fiscal Year 2016, President Obama set a new, more ambitious goal: resettling 85,000 refugees. Per the Presidents goal, the American communities welcomed 84,995 refugees in Fiscal Year 2016.
The refugees admitted under the program come from 79 countries. Over 70 percent fled five countries: the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Syria, Burma, Iraq, and Somalia, where protracted conflicts have driven millions from their homes. Over 72 percent of the resettled refugees are women and children. Many are single mothers, survivors of torture, people who need urgent medical treatment, religious minorities, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or intersex (LGBTI) persons, or others imperiled by violence and persecution.
American communities have long been the bedrock of the United States Refugee Admissions Program. The Department of State is proud to work with partners in about 180 cities across 48 states, and that list is expanding in Fiscal Year 2017 as more American communities open their doors to refugees.
The safety and security of the American people is always the top priority. Refugees are screened more carefully than any other type of traveler. Screening includes the participation of the Department of Homeland Security, the FBI, the National Counterterrorism Center, the Departments of State and Defense as well as additional intelligence agencies.
Looking forward, the United States will welcome 110,000 refugees in Fiscal Year 2017. This is a 57 percent increase over FY 2015 and is consistent with the belief that all nations must do more to help the record number of innocent civilians who are uprooted, cast adrift, and desperate to find peace, safety and the chance to rebuild their lives.
Top 5 Countries of Origin:
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Syria
Burma
Iraq
Somalia
Top 5 U.S. States welcoming refugees:
California
Texas
New York
Michigan
Ohio
SOURCE: Department of State Published November 13, 2016
Muslim clerics in Mauritania on Sunday urged the authorities to execute a blogger who was sentenced to death in 2014 for apostasy after writing a blog post on Islam and racial discrimination.
Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ould Mkhaitir's article touched a nerve in Mauritania, a West African country with deep social and racial divisions.
He was tried for apostasy and received the death penalty despite having repented and saying his article was misunderstood.
According to the U.S.-based Freedom Now rights group who provide Mkhaitir with legal counsel, the blog post appears to have been the 1st he published.
Prior to his arrest he worked as an engineer for a mining company and was not an activist, Freedom Now said on its website.
Mauritania has not applied a death penalty since 1987 but on Sunday, the influential Forum of Imams and Ulemas issued a fatwa, or Islamic decree, calling for Mkhaitir to be killed.
It condemned "Mkhaitir and his heresy, recalling that the legal penalty in his case is death, with no exception made for his repentance," according to a statement.
"We demand that the competent authorities apply the law: kill him and bury him in conformity with the law of God."
Rights groups like Amnesty International and Reporters Without Borders have campaigned for Mkhaitir's pardon and release.
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Source: Reuters, November 13, 2016
By Kim Tae-gyu
The surprise election of Donald Trump to the highest office in the U.S. will likely weigh on the Korean economy, prompting worries that the country's annual growth rate will fall below 2 percent next year, analyst said Monday.
If Trump comes up with protectionist measures such as nullifying free trade pacts and raising tariffs in line with his campaign pledges, it could deal a serious blow to Korea, which heavily depends on exports.
Adding to concerns, the country's construction industry, which has almost single-handedly underpinned the economy over the past few years, is showing signs of slowing down amid worries of a real estate bubble.
Korea failed to top 2 percent in annual growth just once in the new millennium when it chalked up 0.7 percent in 2009 in the wake of the global financial crisis and the resultant credit crunch. The growth rate was 3.3 percent in 2014 and 2.6 percent in 2015. For this year, the figure is predicted to be slightly higher than 2.5 percent.
"The chances are that we will not be able to grow by 2 percent next year at a time when both exports and consumption remain sluggish," said Prof. Lee Phil-sang at Seoul National University.
"Worse, Trump's election brings great uncertainties, which are the biggest enemy of the economy. We are required to draw up contingency plans to deal with the threats."
The parliamentary budget office recently projected that private consumption will increase 2.2 percent next year while construction investment will rise 2.1 percent compared to 6.8 percent this year.
Prof. Kim Sang-jo took issue with the lack of economic leadership in the nation caused by the scandal involving President Park Geun-hye and her shadowy aide Choi Soon-sil, who was found to have illegally meddled in state affairs across the board.
Because of the scandal, the government is struggling to go ahead with economic policies, and worse, the post of deputy prime minister in charge of the economy is practically vacant as the Assembly has not started hearings on a new appointee amid lingering political wrangling.
"In the aftermath of Trump's election, our economy faces zero visibility but we don't have a control tower to lead the way forward. The leadership vacuum and uncertainty are feared to become a deadly mix," Kim said.
"The possibility that our growth rate will plunge below 2 percent is getting bigger."
IBK Securities research head Lee Jong-woo said that Korea Inc. could slump in 2017 but warned against an overly pessimistic stance.
"The consensus is that our economy will face problems next year and I agree. But I don't think that our growth rate will fall by 0.7 or 0.8 percentage points in a single year," Lee said.
"Even at its worst, I expect that the economy will expand by more than 2 percent next year."
Meanwhile, Citigroup predicted of late that the Trump victory could cut its 2017 growth forecast for Korea to around 2.1 percent from the original 2.7 percent on the assumption that the political event could lower global gross domestic product growth by around 0.7 to 0.8 percentage points.
By Kim Tae-gyu
Samsung BioLogics, the biologic drug manufacturing unit of Samsung Group, is cruising smoothly on the Seoul bourse with the company's value jumping almost 30 percent in three trading days after its listing.
The company's stock price closed at 175,500 won Monday, up 29 percent since its initial public offering (IPO), Nov. 11. As a result, its market capitalization also soared to 11.6 trillion won, making it the 23rd biggest firm in the domestic market.
Since its listing, Samsung BioLogics is now more valuable than the world's No. 1 shipyard Hyundai Heavy Industries and sister company Samsung SDS, which placed 24th and 25th, respectively.
The news that the enterprise's share would be included in benchmark indices provided by such representative players as the Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) and Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) reflects its value.
The former decided to embrace Samsung BioLogics this week while the latter is scheduled to follow suit early next month, which would prompt pensions and funds to purchase more of the biologic corporation's stock.
Samsung Group, the country's primary conglomerate, picked biologics as one of its next-generation growth engines in 2010 and invested a lot to set up the affiliate.
The Seoul-based firm already runs a factory with six 5,000-liter bioreactors in Incheon's Songdo.
In addition, a state-of-the-art plant with an 180,000-liter capacity is under construction.
By going public, Samsung BioLogics secured 2.25 trillion won in cash. It plans to use the revenue to finance the construction of its third plant, repay its debts and invest in its affiliate, Samsung Bioepis.
The combined shares of Samsung Electronics and Samsung C&T in Samsung BioLogics are higher than 70 percent.
Other positive news for BioLogics is its biosimilar arm Bioepis whose SB2, a generic version of Jansen's rheumatoid arthritis treatment Remicade, is doing well in Europe.
After obtaining approval in Europe this May, U.S. pharmaceutical firm Biogen took charge of selling the medicine under the brand name Flixabi.
Samsung Bioepis was established in 2012 as a joint venture between Samsung BioLogics and Biogen. The start-up is responsible for developing and manufacturing products as well as conducting global clinical trials and obtaining regulatory approval.
By Shawn Kim and Sara Lee
Globally, sustainable and responsible investing (SRI) is growing structurally as asset owners mandate evidence of SRI, and environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations in asset managers' investment strategies.
Active fund managers can redefine their value position, create attractive investment approaches for millennials, and increase their value-additive processes. There is evidence that companies with sustainability policies outperform their peers.
At Morgan Stanley, we believe that having a better understanding of the ESG risks and opportunities a company faces will help investors improve their investment returns. Stakeholders such as regulators, lawmakers, public pensions, institutional investors, listed companies, and consumers in Korea are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability in their investment and consumption decisions.
In our view, the growth environment for SRI in Korea is driven by four main factors, namely: 1) financial opportunity; 2) public pensions; 3) support from regulators and policymakers; and 4) increased public awareness and interest. Public funds, such as the National Pension Service, have increased their SRI funds balance and gradually integrated ESG factors into their investment decisions, as required by changes in laws governing public pensions. The Financial Services Commission plans to introduce a volunteer stewardship code for domestic institutional investors in 2017. Also, the Korea Stock Exchange is promoting ESG practices to listed companies, and lawmakers are discussing potential policy changes that incorporate corporate social responsibility and SRI amid consumers' increasing awareness of ESG issues.
Increased awareness of the importance of ESG could support the Korean stock market, which currently trades at a 30 percent discount to regional peer markets in price-to-book value. Several metrics suggest reasons for this discount -- including a lower return on equity profile, higher earnings volatility, and lower relative cash returns. However, perceptions of weaker corporate governance could also partly account for the discount. According to the Asia Corporate Governance Association, Korea, in 2014, ranked eighth among 11 Asian countries in terms of corporate governance, despite having the fourth-largest economy in the region.
As sustainable investment gains traction and the policy push for ESG issues continues, we believe listed companies will become more aware of the importance of ESG factors. Assuming governance improves and ESG matters gain prominence, capital management would likely attract greater attention in an effort to increase cash returns. We have already seen corporate Korea becoming more proactive in terms of capital management by raising dividend yields in recent years. But, such yields remain below the average in Asia ex-Japan. Still, as cash returns in Korea increase, we believe the valuation gap should narrow.
Morgan Stanley Research has analyzed the potential effects of ESG factors on a company's share price from a risk and opportunity perspective. Our Korean equity research team has integrated Morgan Stanley's global ESG framework into long-term sustainability analysis by discussing company-specific issues for 83 listed companies in Korea, accounting for around 83 percent of the market capitalization of the MSCI Korea index. Because of the different business characteristics, we selected key environmental and social factors that have an effect on each company's earnings and valuations by integrating our global valuation framework. We also analyzed corporate governance in greater detail because of its significance for long-term sustainability.
The following three points emerged as areas of interest: 1) board independence is highest in the financial industry, mainly at banks; 2) female board member representation, on average, is low, at 3 percent compared with the 2015 OECD average of around 20 percent (notably, however, in the Korean banking industry, female representation averages 14 percent); 3) the level of management remuneration, and its growth momentum, generally has no relationship with total shareholder return; rather, it correlates positively with market cap.
Shawn Kim is a managing director at Morgan Stanley. He heads the Korea research department in Seoul, is the Korea strategist and a senior technology analyst. Sara Lee is an executive director who covers Korean conglomerates, insurance and brokerage companies at Morgan Stanley Research.
By Yoon Ja-young
Conglomerates with assets of over 5 trillion won will face stricter disclosure rules regarding transactions between their local and overseas subsidiaries beginning next year. This includes intra-affiliate deals related to capital, assets and securities as well as services among subsidiaries.
Shin Young-sun, secretary general of the Fair Trade Commission (FTC), revealed the plan while meeting with reporters, Monday.
"In the case of Lotte, for instance, in which subsidiaries overseas govern local subsidiaries, the ownership structure was not clear," he said. "As it is difficult for the regulator to examine overseas subsidiaries, surveillance through regulatory filing is even more crucial."
The feud for managerial control of Lotte Group among the owner family last year revealed the governance structure of the group, in which overseas subsidiaries govern subsidiaries operating in Korea. Lotte had been hiding that 16 overseas subsidiaries hold stakes in 11 local subsidiaries including Lotte Hotel.
The regulator thus plans to strengthen filing obligations for conglomerates with assets over 5 trillion won regarding transactions between local and overseas subsidiaries. Currently, they are obliged to file only the total amount of such transactions, but they will disclose each such transaction from next year.
"For instance, Samsung Electronics has many transactions with affiliates overseas such as the one in the United States. Currently, however, it has only to disclose the total amount of transactions with all subsidiaries overseas," Shin said.
"With the revision, we will know all its transactions with each of the overseas subsidiaries."
The FTC plans to prepare the revision by the end of this year.
It also plans to obligate the companies to disclose the shareholders of overseas subsidiaries that have invested in local subsidiaries.
A total of 52 conglomerates will be subject to the disclosure rule which applies to large business groups with over 5 trillion won in total assets.
"The disclosures related with overseas subsidiaries will help the transparent provision of information for the market. It will strengthen the autonomous surveillance by the market," Shin said.
He added that stronger surveillance by the market will also induce large business groups to voluntarily improve their governance structure.
Regarding a taskforce within the FTC that is in charge of ICT firms, Shin said it will be maintained next year as well. The FTC began the ICT team last year to cope with unfair practices of global and local ICT firms.
Lee Min-ho, second from right, speaks during the press conference for the SBS fantasy romance drama "The Legend of the Blue Sea" at Imperial Palace in Nonhyeon-dong, southern Seoul, Monday. Jun Ji-hyun, second from left, and director Jin Hyuk, third from left, attended the event. / Yonhap
Lee Min-ho, Jun Ji-hyun star in much-hyped drama
By Park Jin-hai
When people hear the word mermaid, they immediately think of Hans Christian Andersen's "The Little Mermaid," who dissolved into sea foam upon the waves with a broken heart, or Disney's red-haired character Ariel.
Jin Hyuk, director of "The Legend of the Blue Sea," SBS's hotly anticipated fantasy romance drama starring two big-name stars Jun Ji-hyun and Lee Min-ho, says various documents in Korean history mention mermaids.
"We have our own ancient mermaid stories. The drama has been created from the imagination of one of those surviving mermaids just walked into the modern day Seoul one day," said Jin during the press conference at Imperial Palace in southern Seoul, Monday.
Anti-Trump demonstrators gather outside Trump tower, voicing opposition to Donald Trump's election as President on Nov. 9 in New York. / AP-Yonhap
By Jane Han
DALLAS While incidents of racial attack and hate crimes are pouring in across the country in the wake of Donald Trump's election, Koreans here are also becoming an immediate target of discrimination and abuse.
People everywhere from California to New York have started sharing their experiences on various Internet and social media platforms.
"I was taking an afternoon walk around my neighborhood the day after the election, and a young white man in his 20s rolls down his car window and shouts, Soy sauce!' at me," wrote one New Jersey resident on HeyKorean.com, a large portal site for Koreans living in the U.S. "I was totally bummed."
"The language itself wasn't violent, but it's the first time I experienced this kind of racism straight in my face in the 13 years that I've lived in the U.S.," she said.
Another user, who works as a waitress in Pennsylvania, said she was baffled by all the insulting racist jokes made by customers.
"I had numerous guests jokingly say something like, Isn't it time to go back to your country now?'" she wrote. "At that moment, I laughed and played along with them, but at the end of the day, I realized how racist those comments were."
These incidents are just a few of the hundreds of wide-ranging cases being reported throughout the country.
According to The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), a non-profit civil rights organization that monitors hate groups in the U.S., more than 200 incidents of election-related harassment and intimidation have been experienced or witnessed nationwide just several days after the presidential election.
"Anti-black and anti-immigrant incidents were far and away the most reported with anti-Muslim being the third most common," the SPLC said in a statement.
And some abuse and attacks were more extreme than others.
A female student wearing a hijab was reportedly robbed by men talking about Trump and Muslims, while people painted racist graffiti on walls of dozens of school campuses.
One report made directly to the SPLC said, "My 12-year-old daughter is African American. A boy approached her and said, Now that Trump is president, I'm going to shoot you and all the black people I can find.'"
Just as many of the incidents have occurred on campuses, a growing number of Korean parents say their children have come back home from school, offended and degraded.
"My high school daughter said a black student called her out shouting, Go back to China!'" said Eugenia Kim, a mother in South Carolina, a region in America with a relatively small Asian population.
"My daughter wasn't going to back down. She shot right back, No, you go back to Africa,'" she said. "I have a feeling this is just the beginning of more similar incidents to come. This is a time for us to be brave and speak up."
Many civil rights activists say Trump's rhetoric throughout the campaign has given way for racially abusive language, which has long been a taboo in American society, to emerge from different corners of the country.
"All the bigotry and divisiveness we've seen on the campaign trail have left this country bruised and feeling afraid of what's ahead tomorrow," said Lisa Kim, a member of the Korean American Coalition in New York, a non-partisan community advocacy organization.
I don't know. Perhaps so.
That has nada to do with whether you can or can't know if all of Trump's sexual bragging is just talk. You claimed, "So he is personally is JUST LIKE BILL CLINTON, with one exception. BILL CLINTON DID, what Trump only Talked about doing in a private dressing room in a vulgar conversation between 2 men."
You can't know that. But whether you, I, or anybody can know isn't the point. We both damn well know Trump's lived the life of a sexual playboy and an unfaithful husband. Filling in the particulars presents a challenge, but Trump's grabbed his share of pussies perhaps consensually, perhaps not, made his share of passes, and definitely has refused to take no for an answer on more than one occasion.
We can know that.
By Jung Min-ho
Prosecutors called in two former presidential secretaries, Monday, who left their posts last month over the influence-peddling scandal involving President Park Geun-hye's confidant Choi Soon-sil.
An Bong-geun and Lee Jae-man appeared at the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office in southern Seoul at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., respectively.
They declined to answer a barrage of questions from reporters before entering the prosecution's office.
Prosecutors believe the two men, who worked as Park's aides for nearly 20 years, can help them get a clear picture of the scandal, which has provoked massive rallies against the President.
Along with Jeong Ho-seong, who has already been arrested for revealing state secrets, the three are known as the closest aides to President Park since she began her political career as lawmaker in 1998.
An is suspected of giving classified government information to Choi and a "Cheong Wa Dae free pass," which allowed her to enter the presidential office without any security checks.
Lee, who was in charge of computer security at Cheong Wa Dae, is also suspected of playing a role in giving such information to Choi, or failing in his security duties if this was not the case.
Evidence shows that Choi had access to state documents ranging from Park's speech drafts to extremely sensitive government activities, including three unofficial military contacts with North Korea in 2012, through her tablet PC. She allegedly received such information not just once or twice but regularly from Cheong Wa Dae, meddling in various state affairs, including who to appoint as ministers.
Now, the prosecution is aiming to question the President. It has already announced that she will be questioned as early as this week, saying it is in talks with Cheong Wa Dae to set a date and location.
Much evidence and testimony already suggest that Park was directly involved in the scandal, in which Choi allegedly forced conglomerates to "donate" 77.4 billion won ($66.1 million) to the Mir and K-Sports foundations, which then allegedly funneled the money to people close to Choi, including her daughter Chung Yoo-ra. The question is how much the President was involved and why.
While Park is suspected of having private meetings with seven conglomerate heads in July last year and urging them to make contributions to the foundations, the prosecution confirmed that SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won had a private meeting with her in February. Prosecutors are focusing on why Park met Chey and whether she sought more funds from SK for the foundations.
Other testimony suggests the President's direct involvement. An Chong-bum, a former presidential secretary who has been arrested for abuse of power, reportedly told prosecutors that Park was "furious" over the slow process of establishing the foundations.
The scandal has made Park the least popular president ever in Korea's modern history. Her approval rating has remained at a record-low 5 percent for two weeks despite her emotional apologies, according to local pollster Gallup Korea last week.
Rep. Lee Jung-hyun, chairman of the ruling Saenuri Party, leaves after meeting a group of party members staging a hunger strike to demand his immediate resignation in front of his office in the National Assembly, Monday. Lee has vowed to keep his post until January, which critics say is aimed at saving President Park Geun-hye from immediate political trouble. / Yonhap
By Kim Hyo-jin
A group of Saenuri Party lawmakers who are demanding the immediate resignation of President Park Geun-hye followers from key party posts are poised to take action that may lead to an exodus from the party.
Party Chairman Lee Jung-hyun and other pro-Park figures who are leading the party remained adamant, Monday, that they will not step down.
They said there will be no leadership change until the party holds a convention to elect new leaders in January. Rival factions claim that the proposal is a trick to help Park who is also reeling from the leadership crisis.
Lawmakers who are not affiliated with Park strongly rebuked the leadership, renewing their call for them to resign immediately so the party can begin negotiations with opposition parties over forming a bipartisan Cabinet.
Opposition parties have rejected discussing how to cope with the paralysis gripping the country with the current Saenuri leaders.
A division of the party is looming amid the escalating tension between the rival factions, according to party officials.
Some anti-Park lawmakers including Rep. Na Kyung-won, ex-chairwoman of the National Assembly Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee, are leading a move to dissolve the party in a bid to redeem its tarnished image following the scandal involving the President.
They held a meeting Monday and agreed to form an interim body, consisting of senior lawmakers and governors, to replace the current leadership.
"Lee should withdraw his plan to hold an early chairmanship race," Hwang Young-cheul said during a press briefing. "It will just be an event for pro-Park lawmakers that cannot earn support from either other party members or citizens. Lee must step down immediately so others can find ways to mend the situation with the opposition."
The remarks came a day after Lee announced the plan to hold an early convention to elect a new leadership on Jan. 21. It was viewed as his intention to participate in talks between rival parties for the launch of a bipartisan Cabinet proposed by the opposition bloc.
Rep. Woo Sang-ho, floor leader of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), criticized Lee for holding onto power.
"I felt devastated, looking at his understanding of the situation," he said during a party meeting. "I clarify that I could never have Lee as a negotiation counterpart as he stepped forward to protect the President and concealed the Choi Soon-sil scandal."
Meanwhile, Chairman Lee further widened a chasm with anti-Park lawmakers, ignoring the calls for his resignation.
"What we need most is unity now. I hope they refrain from mentioning the need to disassemble the party," he said during a party meeting. "I will carry on with my job until the new leadership is established."
Amid the brewing factional conflict, the party's approval rating dipped to its lowest in the party's history at 19.2 percent in a Realmeter poll conducted between Nov. 7 and 11. The second-largest opposition People's Party is chasing it tightly with support of 15.3 percent while the DPK is leading the poll by a large margin with 32 percent.
In Daegu and North Gyeongsang Provinces, the traditional conservative home turf of President Park's loyal supporters, the Saenuri fell down to second place for the first time in polling history with 24.9 percent, trailing the main opposition party which garnered 25.5 percent.
Cheong Wa Dae is surrounded by darkness, Monday. President Park Geun-hye will face questioning from the prosecution either today or Wednesday over a scandal involving her long-time friend Choi Soon-sil who is suspected of having meddled in state affairs. / Korea Times photo by Koh Young-kwon
By Kang Seung-woo
President Park Geun-hye is politically incapacitated by the scandal involving her confidant Choi Soon-sil and has no other option but to yield to the people's call for her to let go of power whether by resignation or impeachment.
The scandal, in which Choi meddled in state affairs to benefit herself financially, is stripping Park of her authority as President, and the public's confidence in her. It has become impossible to reverse the administrative vacuum under her leadership. The historical massive rally Saturday that drew about 1 million people to the streets calling for Park's resignation is dragging the President into more talks of impeachment in political circles.
"Park is not apparently ready to overcome the ongoing political challenges, given Cheong Wa Dae's response to the protest," said Yoon Tae-gon, a senior political analyst at Moa Agenda Strategy.
The presidential office said Sunday that Park was taking the street rallies "seriously," but did not elaborate on how this would ease the public's anger.
"The presidential office's lack of solutions to the political firestorm proves President Park will not be able to perform her duties normally during her remaining term in office," Yoon said.
Hangil Research director Hong Hyeong-sik echoed Yoon's view.
"The leadership crisis is gripping the nation as Cheong Wa Dae's poor handling of public sentiment is triggering a backlash," Hong said.
Without changing its attitude, the Park government will face bigger administrative challenges soon, said Hong although he did not expect the current administration to easily work its way out of the difficulties.
Although Park's presidency expires in February 2018, the scandal is already paralyzing her government.
Since her first public apology for the political turmoil, Oct. 25, Park has failed to perform her duties as president. Her summit with Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev last Thursday was the only official event scheduled during the controversy.
By Jun Ji-hye
Saenuri Party Chairman Lee Jung-hyun's proposal to hold a national convention Jan. 21 is raising speculation that President Park Geun-hye's loyalists have U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in mind as Park's successor.
Ban's ten-year tenure comes to an end at the end of the year. He is reportedly planning to return home around the middle of January, meaning that the U.N. chief would be able to run for the governing party chairmanship if the convention is held as Lee suggested.
Lee made the proposal Sunday amid growing calls for his immediate resignation following a massive political scandal involving Park and her longtime confidant Choi Soon-sil. Lee also vowed to amend the party constitution to allow a presidential candidate to assume the chairmanship.
On Monday, Lee also said he would resign from the post around Dec. 20.
Lee, a noted pro-Park figure, was elected chairman in August for a two-year term. At the time, five other pro-Park members were also elected Supreme Council members, dominating the ruling party's leadership.
But they have been facing mounting calls for their resignation due to their failure to monitor the presidential office over the scandal, in which Choi with no official government position greatly intervened in state affairs.
From the Park loyalists' point of view, Ban is the best option for a new party leader as they could gather behind him and be given a new name of "pro-Ban faction," which would be a considerable departure from the old "pro-Park faction" that now has a negative image.
If Ban became the new leader, Park loyalists could also avoid being kicked out of major posts of the party, which could take place if a figure from the rival faction were elected as new chairman.
In addition, if Ban took control of the governing party, this would also be a good help in his presidential bid, meaning that Park loyalists could have the chance of surviving in the next administration too.
Though he has never mentioned which party he would join, Ban has so far made some comments favorable of President Park, including one supporting the government's controversial agreement signed on Dec. 28 with Japan on Tokyo's sexual slavery of Korean women during World War II.
"Lee's proposal to hold a national convention on Jan. 21 is seen as an intention of the pro-Park faction, which is responsible for the ongoing scandal, to win the leadership again," said Lee Jun-seok, a Saenuri Party member. "Park loyalists are probably trying to join forces again, given that other presidential hopefuls in the party are in the rival faction."
For his part, Lee denied speculation that he had mapped out the schedule for the convention after taking Ban's return into consideration.
"I did not have a certain person in mind. I just had a preparatory period and other events scheduled for next year including by-elections," Lee told reporters.
Regarding whether or not Ban will join the ruling party, Lee added that it will be a matter of "his choice."
It remains to be seen whether Lee's proposal could be realized as rival faction members are strongly opposing the idea, calling it "fake."
Senior lawmakers including Na Kyung-won and Choung Byoung-gug formed their own committee to mull ways of resolving the ongoing scandal, demanding Lee's immediate resignation.
They said Lee has already lost the trust of the public as well as party members, so it is improper for him to participate in talks with the opposition parties to form a new Cabinet under a new prime minister.
Ruling and opposition parties agreed Monday to enact an independent counsel probe into an influence-peddling scandal involving President Park Geun-hye's close confidante.
The ruling Saenuri Party, the main opposition Democratic Party and the minor opposition People's Party also agreed to carry out a separate parliamentary probe into the scandal that has rocked the nation over the past several weeks.
The parties plan to pass the two probes during the National Assembly's plenary session slated for Thursday, officials said.
Under the cross-party agreement, an independent counsel will be recommended by the two opposition parties and appointed by the president. The special probe team, which will consist of more than 60 prosecutors and investigators, will have a mandate of up to four months.
The probe team will look into the allegations that Park's close friend Choi Soon-sil abused her decadeslong ties to the president to meddle in important state affairs and even influence government appointments.
DPK leader withdraws from talks with Park
By Yi Whan-woo
The ruling Saenuri Party and the two biggest opposition parties agreed, Monday, to appoint an independent counsel to investigate a corruption scandal involving President Geun-hye and her longtime friend Choi Soon-sil.
Under the agreement, a candidate will be recommended by the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) and minor opposition People's Party, who will be appointed by the President. A team under the counsel will consist of 20 prosecutors and 40 investigators, and have a mandate of up to four months.
The probe will be conducted separately from the ongoing investigation by the prosecution.
The parties also agreed to hold a separate National Assembly probe into the scandal.
The Assembly probe will be conducted for two months, and can be extended once by a month. The parliamentary panel will be comprised of nine lawmakers from the ruling party and nine others from the opposition parties.
The parties plan to pass bills on the investigations by the independent counsel and the National Assembly during a plenary session, Thursday, according to party officials.
These measures came after over one million protesters gathered in central Seoul, Saturday, to demand Park's immediate resignation and a thorough investigation into the scandal. Organizers said they will continue to hold the rallies at weekends until their demands are met.
Park-Choo meeting cancelled
Earlier on Monday, Park and Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) Chairwoman Rep. Choo Mi-ae agreed to hold one-on-one talks at Cheong Wa Dae, Tuesday, but Choo later withdrew the plan after meeting strong protests from DPK members and the smaller opposition parties.
During a party meeting, DPK lawmakers cautioned that the meeting could put the opposition alliance against the President in danger when a unified voice is badly needed.
"Choo accepted their proposal and delivered a message to Cheong Wa Dae," a DPK official said.
The presidential office expressed regret over Choo's flip-flop, saying it will continue efforts to hold dialogue with the opposition parties to normalize state affairs.
Before the decision, Choo said she "urgently" proposed the talks, given the severity of public sentiment against the President and growing calls that she should step down, face impeachment or give up much of her power to a prime minister to be picked by the National Assembly.
Choo, who has been asking Park to resign, said she "will openly discuss all possible measures" with the embattled President.
But leaders of the minor opposition People's Party and Justice Party harshly criticized Choo, saying her meeting with Park was politically motivated and would jeopardize the alliance among opposition parties in handling the fallout of the scandal.
People's Party floor leader Park Jie-won had called on Choo to withdraw her decision, claiming it would help "Cheong Wa Dae's plan to buy time to distort the truth behind the scandal and allow Park to fulfill her presidency."
As an alternative to the meeting, Park Jie-won demanded the President meet all the opposition leaders, not only Choo, and pick a prime minister who is politically neutral.
Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon, a DPK member, also had said Choo's offer will "only benefit Cheong Wa Dae while creating a divide within the opposition," claiming President Park is the main suspect of the scandal.
Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon / Courtesy of Seoul Metropolitan Government
By Kim Hyo-jin
Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon urged President Park Geun-hye to step down immediately, Monday, so the country can have a chance to elect a new leader early.
In an interview with The Korea Times, Mayor Park, considered a potential candidate for the race to Cheong Wa Dae next year, said public confidence for the President has already completely eroded, making it impossible for her to conduct duties both domestic and abroad.
The mayor was among 1 million-strong participants who gathered in central Seoul, Saturday, to demand the President's immediate resignation. This was the largest protest in South Korea since the democratic uprising in June 1987.
As Seoul mayor, he provided active support for protesters, such as increasing transportation, makeshift toilets and safety guards.
"It is obvious that people lost confidence in her and do not want her to carry on in the leader's role," the mayor said.
"We can't neglect overflow of public anger and anxiety. The only solution is her immediate resignation to pave the way for an early presidential election."
The Park Geun-hye administration has been paralyzed for nearly a month by an unprecedented scandal involving her longtime friend Choi Soon-sil.
Park has been pressured to resign following shocking allegations that Choi, despite having no public posting, had meddled in state affairs while accessing classified information and exerting influence on the economic, diplomatic and defense policies adopted by Park.
Despite Park's repeated apologies and an offer to accept a new prime minister appointed by the opposition-dominated National Assembly, public outrage at Park is showing no signs of abating.
While the leadership of the main opposition party and the party's potential presidential candidate Moon Jae-in remained cautious of calling for the President's resignation out of concern about its aftermath, Mayor Park did not hesitate.
He vowed to lead the move to oust the President along with another vocal critic of Park Geun-hye: Ahn Cheol-soo, former leader of the minor opposition People's Party.
Both agreed Wednesday to arrange an emergency gathering of opposition and civic leaders to discuss how to push for the plan.
"It's urgent to take action rather than remaining in despair," he said. "For me, politics is all about responding to the public voice _ listening to them carefully, empathizing with their pain and jointly making alternatives."
He has participated in daily anti-President candlelit rallies since early this month. Citizens have assembled every day in central Seoul, calling for the President's resignation. The mayor said communicating with the public hardened his hawkish stance against the scandal-ridden President.
Her resignation may deprive Mayor Park of a chance to run in the next presidential election.
If the incumbent president resigns, a presidential election should be held in 60 days, according to the Constitution. However, the Election Law stipulates that a public official who hopes to run in the presidential race should quit his or her job 90 days before the election.
"At this point, my political interest doesn't matter at all. I stepped forward, with a determination that I can give up everything I have," he said.
Major presidential candidate
Mayor Park has been one of the major potential presidential candidates from the opposition bloc along with ex-presidential runners Moon and Ahn.
The Seoul mayoral position has been viewed as the fastest route to becoming a major presidential runner thanks to its high public profile and political influence.
Former Seoul Mayor Lee Myung-bak was elected president in 2007 after prompting notable administrative achievements like redeveloping the urban stream of Cheonggyecheon. His successor Oh Se-hoon of the conservative Saenuri Party became a key potential presidential runner following his drastic move to put a free school meal program up for referendum in 2011.
Their predecessor Goh Kun served as acting president when ex-President Roh Moo-hyun was impeached by the National Assembly in 2004 and emerged as a major competitor to then-presidential hopefuls Park Geun-hye and Lee Myung-bak.
Mayor Park did not earn his fame just because of the mayoral post. The 60-year-old, a former human rights lawyer, is a symbolic figure of the civic movements of the 1990s and 2000s.
Starting his activist career with the progressive civic group People's Solidarity for Participatory Democracy in 1994, he drew much attention by launching the Beautiful Foundation, a social enterprise committed to encouraging citizens to donate 1 percent of their income, and the Beautiful Store, a charity shop modeled on the U.K.'s Oxfam.
Park's achievements made while serving the two mayoral terms since 2011 have been credited for being citizen-friendly. He implemented the "half tuition" policy for University of Seoul and a plan to provide 80,000 units of public rental housing by 2018. He has led the free school meal program and operated nighttime buses.
"My administrative paradigm is putting people first," he said. "I channeled my focus into increasing investment in citizens rather than prompting construction to build more fancy buildings."
He said he hopes to do politics that can "preserve dignity" of every single citizen.
"Our society has been ravaged by inequality, unfairness, insecurity and lack of communication. The people's sovereignty has literally malfunctioned while they suffer a high suicide rate, low birthrate, increasing non-regular workers and skyrocketing household debts," he noted.
"Rooting out corruption and irregularities will be the first step to fixing this abnormality."
North Korea policies
Mayor Park has called on the government to resume exchanges with North Korea. Calling it a "Northern New Deal," he claims the South should utilize the North's abundant personnel, resources and transport connections to the continent as a way of overcoming the sluggish economy as well as strengthening security.
"Unconditional sanctions against Pyongyang cannot be a solution to North Korea's nuke issue," he said, pointing out its second to fifth nuclear tests were conducted under the conservative South Korean governments. "Seoul should take the diplomatic leverage by seeking a vision of peaceful coexistence."
He is a vociferous critic of the Park Geun-hye administration's North Korea policies, including the closure of the Gaeseong Industrial Complex, a flagship inter-Korean business project, and the decision to deploy the U.S. Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery on Korean soil.
"These kinds of abrupt policies could provoke the North, thereby potentially harming national security," he said.
The mayor asserted THAAD deployment, in particular, should be reconsidered from square one.
"The decision-making procedure excluded the people and lack of communication brought a national division," Park said. "Not to mention, the government made a diplomatic mistake, interpreting the decision as a matter of choosing one side between the U.S. and China.
"Such errors cannot be just overlooked. The planned deployment should be reexamined at the National Assembly."
By Tong Kim
Donald J. Trump, the president-elect, is facing a daunting task appearing as impossible as it was for him to win the presidency of unifying a deeply, and emotionally, divided nation. It will be a bigger challenge to carry out his campaign pledges.
Many of them are very controversial and may not be implemented due to insurmountable political or legal obstruction. We have seen many campaign pledges often wind up as promises unfulfilled in an electoral democracy.
Postelection developments thus far, despite significant protests in major cities against his stunning victory, have headed in the positive direction, demonstrating the continuity of the democratic tradition of peaceful transfer of power that assures the people at home and the international community that the American system works no matter how ugly, vicious and denigrating the election campaign may have been.
Both the winner and the loser appealed for national unity. Hillary Clinton, who lost the electoral votes, yet mustered a narrow plurality in the popular votes, encouraged her disappointed supporters to give Trump "an open mind and the chance to lead." Trump's first transition meeting with President Obama went well. His meetings with the leaders of both chambers of a continuing Republican Congress who hesitated to support Trump were also constructive, as much of presidential power is contingent upon support of the Congress.
The President-elect has 70 days to prepare to hit the ground running, as they say, from day one of the Trump presidency in January. While the transition process has begun with Trump's meeting with Obama Thursday, several prospective names for White House staff and department secretaries pop up in the media. According to Chris Christie, in charge of the transition team, there will be multiple candidates for the positions recommended from hundreds of the qualified, but only the President-elect will make final decisions. How soon is not known.
It is likely that the Trump presidency will probably have installed the key secretaries for national security including state, defense, homeland security, and treasury at the time of its inauguration. The new administration will have to fill in about 4,000 positions with political appointees. A majority of these positions can wait until later.
President Trump can start with revoking or issuing new executive orders to carry out some of his campaign pledges. He can repeal Obama's executive action to protect illegal immigrants from deportation, or he can nominate a Supreme Court Justice, or even appoint a special prosecutor to investigate his vanquished opponent. The notion of sending Clinton to jail is no longer useful. It would only contribute to the extent of chasm in the American people. Why beat the dead horse?
On the other hand, Trump's signature promise of abolishing "ObamaCare" requires more details than just "a much better program." Building a wall or deporting 12 million illegal immigrants would require huge funds from the Congress, and it is doubtful these can be done early on in his presidency. The Mexican president reiterated that he is not going to pay for the wall, and there is no way the U.S. can force Mexico to pay for the wall.
Trump can order his team to renegotiate the TPP, the NAFTA, the KORUS-FTA, and even the Iran nuclear deal, as he promised on his campaign trail. However, a reassessment of U.S. foreign policy, including alliances with NATO, South Korea, and Japan, requires a prudent review by a group of good advisors whom Trump is yet to put together.
The premise of "American interest first" does not necessarily mean falling back to isolationism or trade protectionism, although it had a strong appeal to the Trump supporters who felt left behind the bubbles of prosperity from globalism, while the United States was spending fortunes to defend its rich allies. There have been strong recommendations from both progressive and conservative thinkers that the new administration must maintain the fundamentals of security alliance against increasingly diversified security challenges in the world.
"I want to tell the world community that while we will always put America's interests first, we will deal fairly . with all other nations," Trump said in his victory speech. "We will seek common ground, not hostility; partnership, not conflict." This is good news for the DPRK, which always complains about U.S. hostility and threat to invade it. Pyongyang is silent on Trump's election as of Nov. 11.
On the campaign trail, the candidate Trump made many conflicting statements on Korea, including his consideration of letting South Korea go nuclear to defend against the nuclear North, wavering between a meeting with Kim Jong-un for negotiation and a Chinese solution to get rid of the North Korean nuclear weapon or to remove Kim. What is clear is that Trump wants South Korea to pay a fair share for its defense.
In a phone call with the politically incapacitated South Korean president on Wednesday, Trump employed nice diplomatic language, without specification. He said, "We will be with you 100%.... We will be steadfast and strong with respect to working with you to protect against the instability in North Korea."
An expanding North Korean nuclear arsenal, with a capability to strike the U.S. and its allies, is a top foreign policy priority. No expert in Washington disputes it. However, what the Trump administration will actually do is not clear. What is clear at this point is the likelihood of withdrawing Washington's current policy, which has failed in dealing with the North Korean nuclear issue.
I know that some of you are still scrambling to wrap your heads around how the media, corporate America and basically everyone that you get your information from could have been so terribly wrong but it happened. So before you go flipping through pages looking for another excuse as to how/why this happened or searching of ways that the guy who hasn't even started the job yet has gone back on proposed policies. Take a little time, relax and enjoy the short. Everything will be OK-S
Kim Pyong-il, right, was removed from North Korea's political scene after his power struggle with Kim Jong-il over selecting a successor to founding leader Kim Il-sung, left, in the 1970s. / Yonhap
By Hong Dam-young
North Koreans want Kim Jong-un's uncle, Kim Pyong-il, to replace Kim Jong-un and end his "reign of terror," according to Hong Kong-based magazine Yazhou Zhoukan.
The magazine said Kim Pyong-il former leader Kim Jong-il's half-brother and also Kim Jong-un's uncle was regarded by North Koreans at home and abroad as preferred candidate to take over the North Korean leadership, Yonhap news agency reported Monday.
The report said many North Koreans frightened and dissatisfied with Kim Jong-un's brutal dictatorship wanted a new leader, and Kim Pyong-il was the most mentioned candidate.
"The country's high-ranking officials are eyeing Kim Pyong-il as well, because they are threatened by the leader's executions of high-profile officers," the report said.
According to the report, Kim Pyong-il, in semi-exile as North Korean ambassador to the Czech Republic, is perceived as a suitable leader because of his decency and open-mindedness.
The report also said Kim Pyong-il's neither pro-China nor pro-U.S. diplomatic position would enable him to deal with both countries, which would try to take control of the North once its regime fell.
Even at the "North Korean Defector World Conference" in Seoul on April 29, the agenda included establishing a North Korean government-in-exile with Kim Pyong-il as its first head.
The North Korean regime removed Kim Pyong-il from its political scene by exiling him to Europe after his power struggle with Kim Jong-il over selecting a successor of founding leader Kim Il-sung in the 1970s.
For decades, he has served as ambassador to Hungary, Finland, Poland, and most recently, the Czech Republic.
He is still considered a threat to Kim Jong-un, who sent some party members to the Czech Republic to keep an eye on Kim Pyong-il in 2014.
"I heard that Kim Pyong-il resembled Kim Il-sung a lot that's why Kim Jong-il was so jealous of him," a North Korean defector told The Korea Times in Seoul.
"But many North Koreans are not aware of his existence because of the country's efforts to hold back information."
Some said it was "unlikely" and "unrealistic" for North Koreans to hope Kim Pyong-il would take over from Kim Jong-un.
A North Korean defector familiar with the Kim family's inner circle said, "Hoping Kim Pyong-il will become the next leader is completely groundless, considering his background."
"He is the son of Kim Il-sung and his second wife' Kim Song-ae.
"There is no way Kim Pyong-il can overcome the high barriers of the pure bloodline of Kim's family."
Meanwhile, reports say Kim Jong-un has ordered about 64 public executions, mostly high-ranking officials.
They include former defense chief Hyon Yong-chol reportedly blown to bits by an anti-aircraft gun after falling asleep at a meeting and army chief Ri Yong-ho, reportedly executed in 2012.
Ban Jun-hwi, 11, makes a funny face during a photo shoot after class at Youngil Elementary School in Guro, southwestern Seoul, Tuesday. Ban is the top prize winner of the fifth Korea Multicultural Youth Awards.
Grand prize winner versatile in language, music, go
By Kim Bo-eun
Ban plays the violin during orchestra practice at the Guro Culture Center in Seoul.
/ Korea Times photos by Shim Hyun-chul
Eleven-year-old Ban Jun-hwi is observant, inquisitive and smart; but what makes the top prize winner of the fifth Korea Multicultural Youth Awards shine above all is his character.
On Tuesday afternoon, Ban was early for his orchestra class at a local culture center in Guro, southwestern Seoul.
Some students were there, practicing or talking to each other. But there were not enough chairs for all of the orchestra members.
Soon, Ban came with a stack of chairs, struggling to get the heavy load into the entrance.
"I jokingly refer to him as aeneulgeuni' (a precocious child), because he is such a mature and responsible child," Lee Sang-hyo, his violin teacher at Guro Culture Center, said.
After the orchestra practice was over, students of each section gathered to practice separately. Ban is part of the violin section.
Ban has been learning violin for six years, but modestly says he is not much good but likes playing with the orchestra because various instruments can complement each other harmoniously.
Classmates also recognize his consideration for others, and he was elected class president from his second to fourth years.
Background
Ban is a child of an interracial family, of which the number is growing but still remains a minority. In the highly homogeneous country of Korea, interracial children are sometimes bullied for their skin color or facial features, and can have difficult school lives at school.
In the case of Ban, born to a Korean father and Chinese mother, nothing visibly tells of his racial background. Ban says his classmates, who find out about his mother, want to know why she is Chinese and where he was born.
"I simply tell them I was born at the Korea University Guro Hospital," Ban said with a smile. "Then they stop asking."
Ban has lived in Guro all his life. His mother tongue is Korean, but at times he speaks with his mother in Chinese, which he continues to learn. When Ban was a second grader, he received the grand prize in a foreign language contest hosted by the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education.
High achiever
Ban has a talent for math and science. He attends a math academy for the gifted affiliated with the Nambu District Office of Education in Seoul. Ban is also a member of a Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) science program for multicultural children.
Ban says his grandfather taught him math since he was six years old.
"I want to become a mathematician, who can refute existing math theories and formulas," Ban said, ambitiously.
In addition, Ban is a go player. In 2012 and 2014, he won nationwide go tournaments for interracial children organized by the Korea Baduk Association, as an individual player and on a team, respectively.
In his free time, Ban is immersed in books. After school, he often goes to the library in his neighborhood and spends hours there.
Although Ban is studious and mature, he is only 11 and is just like the rest of his classmates he wants more time to play. "I like to play games and hang out with my friends," he said, beaming.
Gender Equality and Family Minister Kang Eun-hee smiles with grand prize winner Ban Jun-hwi, a fifth grader at Yeongil Elementary School in Seoul.
/ Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk
By Kim Se-jeong
Late autumn drizzle ushered the 10 winners of the fifth Korea Multicultural Youth Awards organized by The Korea Times, into the awarding ceremony at the Korea Press Center in Seoul, Monday, where they were lauded for their academic performance, language proficiency and exceptional behavior among other traits.
They were from all over Korea Seoul, Incheon, Daejeon, Mokpo and Goheung, and South Jeolla Province.
The award ceremony, which lasted about an hour, included messages of congratulation and encouragement, and applause from family members, foreign diplomats and other dignitaries.
"Congratulations to all you winners. You can do anything as long as you keep your confidence up," Kang Eun-hee, minister of gender equality and family, said. Besides awarding the top prize winner, she congratulated each winner personally after the ceremony and accepted photo requests as if they were her own children.
Ecuadorian Ambassador Oscar Herrera Gilbert poses with Kim Su-min, a representative of Masongjungang Elementary School's Student Council, after presenting him with the outstanding volunteer group award.
/ Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk
Ten winners were called out to the stage and received a plaque and a bouquet of flowers.
By Ranjit Kumar Dhawan
The spread and popularity of the South Korean cultural products since the late 1990s has taken the world by surprise. South Korean music, dance, dramas, movies, food and fashion have become popular in many Asian countries and also across the world. As a result, people worldwide are becoming attracted to the South Korean cultural wave or Hallyu.
However, north of the Demilitarized Zone on the Korean Peninsula is another Korea, which is also spreading waves around the world. Unlike South Korea which is known for its cultural wave, North Korea has become famous for generating manmade seismic waves. In the last decade the Kim dynasty in North Korea has tested nuclear weapons five times which has sent waves across the globe.
But there are several fundamental differences between the waves generated by two Koreas. Firstly, The South Korean wave enhances the "soft power" of the country. It has increased the brand value of South Korea and has created an interest in the economic transformation of the country, known as the "Miracle on the Han River." On the other hand, the North Korean wave contributes to an increase in the military capabilities and "hard power" of this reclusive state, which has led to negative perceptions about it all over the world.
Secondly, the South Korean wave is playing an important role in economic development as the promotion of cultural products have become new engines of economic growth for this export dependent country. Contrastingly, the North Korean wave has led to its economic degradation, leading to the deaths of tens of thousands of people due to hunger and malnutrition. After each North Korean seismic wave the international community imposes economic sanctions on the country.
Thirdly, due to the attraction of the South Korean wave tourists, students, researchers and businessmen from all over the world come to this country in large numbers. On the other side, the North Korean wave attracts mostly terrorists and dictators who want to get nuclear technology. Also, despite being full of natural beauty and historical monuments North Korea remains one of the least travelled to destinations in the world and is largely avoided by international tourists.
The contrast between the two Koreas is also visible through light waves in the night sky. Pictures taken from satellites in space depict bright light waves coming from South Korean territory, whereas North Korea is shown as a dark patch. This also reflects the economic prosperity in the South, and economic poverty in the North.
On the issue of freedom and democratic rights, South Koreans have been participating in free and fair elections since 1987. According to Samuel P. Huntington, South Korea became a successful case of the "third wave of democracy." This South Korean wave of democracy has led to one of the most vibrant civil societies in the world.
Compared to the South Korean democratic wave, North Korea remains one of the most totalitarian states and ruthlessly suppress any dissent and opposition to the Kim dynasty which has been in power since 1948. The recent wave of defections and refugees from this impoverished state are a testament to political oppression and the economic hardships being faced by the North Korean people.
Therefore, the two Koreas have been generating different kinds of waves. There is a need for the South Korean waves to become a tsunami that will overwhelm the North Korean waves.
The author teaches at the Department of East Asian Studies, University of Delhi, India. His e-mail address is rkdhawan13@hotmail.com
By Michael Breen
Last week, as my taxi was waiting at a red light, a motorcyclist pulled alongside and started shouting at no-one in particular.
It was hard to catch his words, but judging from the posters stuck to his back and adorning his bike, it was probably religious and connected to the current scandal swirling around President Park Geun-hye.
The posters were in Chinese characters except for the title that identified the motorcyclist in English as "World Captain."
I guessed this gentleman had an important message for earthlings along the lines that blessings are in store provided we accept him as our leader.
"There are a lot of people like that in Korea," the taxi driver said as the light changed and the captain sped off.
"It seems like there's been one for a while in the Blue House," I said.
"You're right," he said. Then he thought for a moment and added, "Oh, I am so embarrassed to be a Korean."
This wasn't the first time I'd heard this sentiment in connection with Choi-gate. The scandal has generated fury among Koreans, but when foreigners enter the picture, anger turns to embarrassment. People feel that, once again, after all the hard work in gaining respect from the world, some idiot has come along and made us look bad.
But Koreans who feel this way are being too hard on themselves. In fact, their thinking is all wrong.
First, outsiders understand political scandals well enough to know that they are the work of individuals, not an entire people. Choi-gate would only reflect badly on Koreans if it was typical and all Koreans were known to be corrupt.
Second and this is the more difficult argument to make in the present climate the scandal in my opinion is good for Koreans.
The crisis itself does not damage the international reputation of Koreans. It does not diminish the admiration that people feel for Koreans. It does not taint the affection with which Koreans are viewed around the world. That is because a crisis itself does not cause this type of perception damage.
It is how you handle the crisis that counts.
And I am convinced that the Koreans will handle this crisis in a way that will make their country look even better than it already does to an admiring world.
Here's why: apart from a few Marxists on western campuses, and a bunch of cynics, tyrants and extremists, all human beings want democracy. It is the best system we've come up with by far that allows people to be ruled effectively, have a say in who does the ruling, and be free to get rid of them next time around.
The full experiment with universal suffrage is well into its second century. South Korea is a young democracy but it is already a standout model for other Asian countries. In just six presidential elections, opposition candidates have won twice.
With each new administration, democracy, in terms of the expansion of rights and the improving of governance, has moved forward.
But and here's the "but" with the last two presidents, that progress has stalled.
Ex-President Lee Myung-bak may have done a good job shielding Korea from the global financial crisis and President Park Geun-hye may have good relationships with world leaders, but both of them unwound freedoms. Lee jailed people for drawing cartoons. Park blacklisted 9,473 artists, most of them for the sin of voting for an opposition candidate. These cases catch the flavor of the attitude these two most recent presidents demonstrated toward the ideas of democracy and freedom. They see them as gifts that can only be bestowed when North Korea is no longer a threat. That this is the excuse of the self-inflated power-holder is clear in that their abuses have nothing to do with security and all to do with stamping on critics who hurt their feelings.
In that context, the scandal is very timely. It allows democracy to get going again.
In fact, I would suggest that the timeliness is what makes the activities of Park Geun-hye and her friend Choi Soon-sil scandalous and not the activities themselves.
I say this because, so far, we have seen nothing from this scandal that previous presidents, with the exception of Roh Moo-hyun, did not engage in favors for and abuses by family/friends, the shakedown of chaebol, breaking of internal Blue House regulations and so on. (The possible exception is the part that has yet to be proven and may not be illegal and that is the shaman influence).
The hundreds of thousands on the streets calling for the President to step down are sending a very clear message that Koreans will no longer tolerate presidents who posture as being humble but look upon the people and the spirit of democracy with contempt and let their family and friends milk the system.
Whether the President will step down, whether she will stay in office but hand over some or all of her powers to a prime minister remains to be seen.
T.O.P's military enlistment is sooner than you think! Here are the latest updates.
For those who may not know, military enlistment service in South Korea is a legislated mandate applied to all male citizens between the ages of 18 to 35. The service usually lasts two years and is mandatory for all male citizens including celebrities.
On November 11th, it was revealed that T.O.P qualified to enlist as a conscripted policeman. This confirmation means that T.O.P will receive his enlistment notice within the first two weeks and start his training within three months. Before T.O.P begins his service as a conscripted policeman, he will receive military training in Nonsan Army Training Center.
This is disappointing for BIGBANG fans as we know that soon to follow will be G-Dragon and Taeyang's enlistment announcement. But, fans can find solace in the fact that BIGBANG is set to release one last album before the year ends.
Considering the next two years, what will you miss most about T.O.P? Let us know in the comments below!
Suites renovation
Comfort Suites in Albany has just completed a renovation that took about nine months and cost more than $1 million.
Its completely updated and modernized with new carpet, new furnishings, said Leigha Thomas, director of sales.
The renovation included improvements to guest rooms, the lobby, the breakfast room and meeting areas, where new AV equipment was installed for business customers. We do have a space that seats up to 150 people, Thomas said.
Thomas added that she hopes the renovation results in new customers.
But Comfort Suites in Albany had been doing well before.
We were awarded the top 3 percent in the brand before the renovation. There are 556 hotels in our group. We were ranked 10th. During the renovation, we didnt lose that standing, which is unheard of, Thomas said.
Those interested in seeing the upgrades can stop by the business, or view some of the changes online at www.choicehotels.com/oregon/albany/comfort-suites-hotels/or100.
RAIN honored
Oregon RAIN (Regional Accelerator & Innovation Network) has received the Oregon Economic Development Associations Outstanding Collaborative award.
The award honors the organizations work to fuel the regions economy through an entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Oregon RAIN leverages communities, universities and businesses to create an ecosystem of resources and mentoring for entrepreneurs. In return, these entrepreneurs are able to transform ideas into high-impact, innovative traded-sector companies that are committed to thriving and remaining in the region.
RAIN was funded to advance the formation of companies located in Linn and Benton counties, as well as Lane and Lincoln. RAIN Corvallis is partnered with the Oregon State University Advantage Accelerator.
For more information about RAIN, go to www.oregonrain.org.
Changing roles
Lionel Wilson of Keller Williams Mid-Willamette Realty recently changed roles in the company.
Wilson, who had been CEO of the company, decided to step down from his position and return as a real estate broker. He rejoined the Wilson Team Experts.
In the five years he was CEO, the company grew from 77 agents to 150 in the Willamette Valley, and became No. 1 in sales and volume in Benton and Linn counties combined.
As owner of the Wilson Team Experts, Wilson became a top producer in the local area, specializing in luxury home sales. In the time he was leading KW Mid-Willamette, his wife, Kristen, worked with the Wilson Team Experts.
Wilson Team Experts of Keller Williams Realty Mid-Willamette is at 1121 N.W. Ninth St. Corvallis. The Wilson Team Experts are an independently owned and operated real estate team.
Credit union promotion
Oregon State Credit Union has promoted assistant manager of business services Josh Whisenhunt to director of the department.
Whisenhunt will remain at the credit unions branch at 1980 N.W. Ninth Street in Corvallis.
This is Whisenhunts fourth promotion within the credit unions business services department since arriving in 2006. In his decade with the department, the credit union has grown the member business lending portfolio from $16.7 million to more than $110 million. Whisenhunt has certifications from the Credit Union National Associations Business Lending Credit Analysis program and the Credit Union Business Groups Cash Flow Analysis program.
Prior to the credit union, Whisenhunt worked for four years in a lending role at US Bank.
The Oregon State University graduate originally is from Stayton.
LBCC presentation
The Linn-Benton Community College Family Resource and Education Center was one of two Oregon programs chosen to present at the national Early Childhood Funders Collaborative meeting held in September in Portland.
LBCC was chosen to showcase its work on early childhood and family education projects.
Recommended by the Oregon Early Learning Department of the Oregon Department of Education, LBCC showcased its regional work to bring together the Parenting Education Hub, the Early Learning Hub and the Coordinated Care Organization in Linn, Benton and Lincoln counties to improve outcomes for young children.
The national meeting, hosted by the Oregon Community Foundation, included representatives from 21 foundations, including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Kresge Foundation, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
LBCC Family Resource and Education Center staff members who presented at the conference included Kristi May, Early Learning Hub manager; Jerri Wolfe, parenting education and Family Connections faculty chair; and Kris Wessel, project manager for a new initiative called the Pollywog Project.
LEBANON The United States Marine Corps turned 241 years old Nov. 10, but the men and women who compose its ranks today, as always, are fresh-faced warriors, builders, and healers in their early 20s.
Saturday evening, after a Marine Corps Ball ceremony filled with traditions that are shared with fellow marines worldwide, they let down their hair if thats possible with a high and tight marine haircut and danced the night away at the Boulder Falls Center.
The visibly moved guest of honor was Larry Mullins, president and CEO of Samaritan Health Services who served in Vietnam as a corporal in the Marine Corps with the 26th Marine Regiment and the 1st Marine Division.
He received the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with three stars, a Meritorious Unit Citation, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Campaign Medal, the RVN Cross of Gallantry with palm and frame and the Navy Achievement Medal with V.
He was escorted by Major Justin DiRico, of the USMC Reserve Engineers Service based in Springfield. The Marine Corps Reserves is celebrating its 100th birthday, 1916-2016.
The Marine Corps Ball tradition dates back to 1921. An important part of that tradition is the cutting of a birthday cake. Major DiRico cut the first piece of cake using a sword and presented it to Mullins.
He then cut other pieces for the youngest marine present, 19-year-old PFC Leroy Gay IV, an electrician who has served since Oct. 13, 2015, and the oldest marine present, 1st Sgt. Peter Craner, a 43-year-old infantry rifleman, who has served 24 years.
The longevity of our great country and of our Marine Corps are tied together for good reason, Mullins said. We share the mutual values and traditions of supporting each other.
Mullins said the lessons he learned as a young marine have served him well in life and especially in heading up Samaritan Health Services, which has more than 6,000 employees.
The first lesson is that we learn is we are capable of much greater things than we ever thought we were, Mullins said. The second lesson is tenacity. It takes toughness to pass through the crucibles of training to prepare us for the challenges of combat.
Mullins said his experiences in the Marine Corps, Taught me I could handle most things in going from the battlefield to the board room.
He said other marines also inspired him to do better in life.
Marines learn about preparedness, participation, discipline and courage, Mullins said. Courage is not just physical, its about doing the right thing and that includes the value of shared sacrifice.
Mullins said he has witnessed marines who gave their last drop of water to another marine, even though they had no idea where or when they might be able to get more water for themselves.
Mullins also talked about the families marines leave behind while serving their country.
I have a lifelong appreciation and respect for not only those who serve, but those who love and faithfully support them, their family and friends, Mullins said.
For example, Mullins talked about his future wife, Barbara, who wrote to him daily during his time in Vietnam.
Those letters were our lifeline to home, Mullins said.
He noted Barbara was such a faithful writer he would share her edited letters with marines who did not get much mail. It was so important to them to be connected with life away from the battlefield in the days long before cellular phones and text messaging.
Those letters made our lives a little easier. They took all of us home for a minute, Mullins said. So, to all who wait, I thank you.
Mullins said he admires the comments of Senator John McCain, a six-year prisoner of war in Vietnam, who when asked if he considered himself a hero, responded no, but said he was in the company of heroes.
Tonight that is how I feel, Mullins said. I am in the company of heroes who serve our country. God bless you, our beloved Marine Corps and the United States of America.
In appreciation, Major DiRico presented Mullins with an engraved plaque that held a Marine Ka-Bar knife which has served marines around the world since 1942.
A silent but significant tradition of the ceremony was the setting of the missing man table, also known as the Fallen Comrade Table.
A small table is set for one, to symbolize an isolated prisoner. The table cloth is white to symbolize purity of intentions. A single rose signifies the blood that many have shed for our freedom. A slice of lemon represents the fate of the missing, salt represents the tears of their families, an inverted glass represents the fact the missing service man or woman cannot partake and the Bible represents the spiritual strength needed to sustain those lost.
A lighted candle represents the light of hope and an empty chair represents the fallen or missing.
General Robert Neller, commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps, greeted the marines and guests by video.
Marines, we are part of something bigger than any of us could imagine, Neller said. Whether you fought in the battles of World War I, in the Pacific during World War II, in Korea or Vietnam, in Desert Shield or Desert Storm, or in the streets of Iraq and Afghanistan or you are just starting out on your Marine Corps journey we are all part of an elite family of warriors. For the rest of your life, the first term people will use to describe you will be Marine.
He added, We are Marines for life. Its our responsibility, our duty to maintain and build upon the legacy of those who have gone before us. What we do today, guided by what weve learned from past generations, will determine the future of our Corps.
The Marine Reserves unit present Saturday evening spent two weeks in July in the Deschutes and Willamette National forests, where they demolished a guard station and built more storage near headquarter in Bend.
The projects were needed, but the forests had no funding to complete them.
The SLFP does not condone the continuation of the Emergency Regulations (The Public Security Ordinance) more than a day necessary
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PRESS RELEASE
Europe Needs a Rooseveltian New Deal
Nov. 12, 2016 (EIRNS)Despair and rage among average Americans about their established elites has brought Trump into the White House, in a surge of populism not entirely different from what happened in many countries in the Great Depression 80 years ago, Germanys Der Spiegel writes in an analysis of the U.S. election. The author, Thomas Fricke, says that the same trend is also on the agenda in Europe, where the "stability masochism" (sic) of German Chancellor Angela Merkel and German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schauble reigns, but the fact is that the origins of the crisis have not been removed, but only the symptoms. Germany and Europe can learn from Franklin Delano Roosevelts New Deal approach: He supported the losers of that times financial collapse, and he mobilized the economy in three consecutive New Deals:
The first Deal from 1933 on, employed 3 million Americans to work in reforestation, dam-building, and repair of roads and railroads. Money was given to farmers, to employ teachers, and for construction jobs, and power plants were built. In 1935, the second program followed, with new legislation, particularly social programs. The third New Deal from 1937 on, established the minimum wage and launched more job creation programs.
Fricke notes that it is true that the biggest political shakeups this year occurred with the Brexit vote in the United Kingdom and with the Presidential vote in the United Statesthat is, in countries where the liberal free market dogma has caused the biggest devastation through the effects of globalization. However, the continental European countries where this dogma is less established, are not safe from the same political shocks. Roosevelt, Fricke writes, was not even that successful, but he put an end to "the insanity of a deranged globalization and of liberalized finances," which sufficed to stop the right-wing populists of his era. The same must be done in Europe, with a spectacular investment thrust, to stop populists as well. If that is not done, the next political shocks are certain to occur in France and Italy, and maybe also in Germany. Time is running out, Fricke warns.
PRESS RELEASE
South America Should Actively Participate in the Belt and Road Initiative
Nov. 12, 2016 (EIRNS)These were the words of Jorge Heine, Chiles ambassador to China, in an interview with Xinhua news agency published yesterday. He made these remarks in anticipation of Chinese President Xi Jinpings trip to South America on Nov. 17-23, during which he will attend the Nov. 19-20 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Lima, Peru, and make a state visit to that nation, as well as to Ecuador and Chile.
In statements to TeleSUR, Chinas Deputy Foreign Minister Wang Chao said that Xi Jinping intends to use this tour to strengthen economic ties with the three countries, with an eye toward diversifying into such areas as electronics, infrastructure building, including building industrial parks, and strengthening "industrial production capacity," guided by the principles of "mutual trust, reciprocal training and mutual benefit."
Ambassador Heine told Xinhua that
"Chinese capital and technology will help Latin America improve its infrastructure, industry and connectivity, and said that Chile expects to attract Chinese investment and boost cooperation with China in digital technology. "The Belt and Road Initiative and Xis upcoming visit is of great significance, and will boost two-way cooperation in politics, economy and trade, as well as culture,"
Heine added. "Latin America must be a part" of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, he underscored, stressing that Chinese construction firms can play an important role in helping to build the infrastructure that South America so urgently needs.
Chile was the first South American nation to establish diplomatic ties with China in 1970, and the first to sign a free trade agreement with China, Xinhua noted. Chile wants to "deepen" its Free Trade Agreement with China, Heine said, and pointed out that Chinas State Power Investment Corp. "has just landed" in Chile with $1 billion to invest and is looking into purchasing the Chilean lithium producer, Soquimich.
PRESS RELEASE
No Trump Infrastructure Building Unless U.S. Joins the Silk Road
Nov. 13, 2016 (EIRNS)The incoming Trump team emphasizes its intention to invest heavily in building modern economic infrastructure to restart the U.S. economy. But the Babel of unworkable ways to generate the credit for such a productivity boom, from Trumps team and surrounding hedge fund operators and businessmen, shows that it will not be done except under one condition: That the United States joins the "Silk Road" development thrust of China, and its associated new credit institutions. A Hamiltonian national credit institution must be set up, and immediately link to the "Silk Road" development banks centered in China. This unavoidable path applies even to infrastructure building, such as high-speed rail corridors, in the United States.
Bloomberg News, in an editorial today, "China Trumps Trump for Infrastructure," notes that China has invested $1.2 trillion on rail, power infrastructure, telecom networks, roads, airports this yearmore than Trump has proposed to invest over 5-10 years. The great majority of Chinas fixed capital investment, whose 10% growth contrasts with the United States near zero, is public fixed capital creation through infrastructure building. The editorial ironically notes that "Trumps plan for an Americas Infrastructure First policy mirrors Chinas build-it-and-they-will-come model, except on a much smaller scale."
In a much more perceptive CNN column Nov. 11, "Why Trump Should Work With China," University of Singapore Dean Kishore Mahbubani wrote,
The words fascism, bigot and xenophobe were the most searched-for words in the Merriam-Webster online dictionary on Sunday, the publisher revealed on Twitter.
Those words were followed by racism, socialism, resurgence, xenophobia and misogyny. The searches, possibly related to Tuesdays election of Donald Trump as president, seemed to fit a trend over the last week.
Trump has been accused of xenophobia, which Merriam-Webster defines as fear or hatred of strangers or foreigners, for his hard-line stance on immigration.
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In a campaign speech in June 2015, Trump harshly criticized Mexican immigrants, saying, Theyre bringing drugs. Theyre bringing crime. Theyre rapists. And some, I assume, are good people.
In the past seven days, the most popular word searches on the Merriam-Webster website included many of the same words, as well as feminism, nationalism and deplorable.
The popularity of deplorable is likely related to a comment made by Hillary Clinton in September, in which she said that half of Donald Trumps supporters could be placed in a basket of deplorables. (The word, an adjective, is seldom used as a noun.)
In a blog post last week, Merriam-Webster attributed the rise in searches for misogyny to an increase in usage of the word in news articles and on social media.
The blog post was accompanied by a picture of a box of Tic Tac mints. The picture was seemingly a reference to a conversation Trump had with Access Hollywood host Billy Bush in 2005, in which Trump mentioned using the breath mints before kissing women without waiting for their consent.
The trend of word searches possibly related to the election seems to be continuing. As of Monday, the most searched-for words over the last 24 hours included fascism, xenophobe and bigot, as well as democracy, politics, and demagogue, which Merriam-Webster defines as a political leader who tries to get support by making false claims and promises and using arguments based on emotion rather than reason.
books@latimes.com
Meghan McCain, the daughter of 2008 Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain of Arizona, has become a permanent co-host of the Fox News daytime show Outnumbered.
McCain, 32, has appeared frequently on the program as a Fox News contributor since 2015. On Monday, the channel announced she will appear daily with co-hosts Harris Faulkner and Sandra Smith.
Outnumbered is a daytime discussion program featuring four women panelists joined by a male guest. The program has been the most-watched cable news program in its slot at noon Eastern Time since its launch in April 2014.
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Before joining Fox News Channel last year, McCain served as the host of Pivot Networks TakePart Live and has contributed to such publications as the Daily Beast, Newsweek and Time.
Although McCain describes herself as a Republican, she deviates from the party line on a number of issues including same-sex marriage and climate change. In 2011, she co-wrote a book called America, You Sexy Bitch.
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With its second bankruptcy filing in a little more than a year and an agreement to sell its brand to a Canadian firm, American Apparel Inc.s tumultuous corporate history is close to being sewn up.
This is the end of American Apparel as we know it, said Lloyd Greif, chief executive of Los Angeles investment banking firm Greif & Co.
For the record: An earlier version of this article spelled the name of American Apparels founder and former chief executive, Dov Charney, as Dov Chaney.
Its not the end of the brand, he predicted. But its the end of American Apparel as a manufacturing and retail entity.
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American Apparel, which touted its Made in the USA T-shirts and other clothing with edgy ads, filed for bankruptcy protection Monday and announced it had reached an agreement to sell the brands intellectual property rights and some other assets to Montreals Gildan Activewear Inc. for $66 million.
Gildan has no interest in American Apparels 110 retail stores in 28 U.S. states and 83 others around the world. But court filings said Gildan has negotiated for the opportunity to maintain all or a portion of American Apparels Los Angeles manufacturing, distribution and warehouse operations.
We feel like made in America is an inherent part of that brand, said Garry Bell, Gildans vice president of corporate communications and marketing. It is our intent to continue that focus.
Other companies also will get to bid for American Apparels intellectual property rights and other assets as part of the bankruptcy process.
American Apparel has about 5,900 employees worldwide but would not detail how many are in the Los Angeles area, where its headquarters is located and the company does all of its manufacturing. It has facilities in downtown Los Angeles, Garden Grove, La Mirada and South Gate.
Greif doesnt think that Gildan or another buyer would continue manufacturing in Los Angeles, where the minimum wage is set to increase to $15 an hour by 2020.
California is a very high-cost place to have people who cut and sew, he said. If you want to be American-made apparel, theres 50 states in the union you can make it. Why make it in the most expensive state?
American Apparel rose to prominence under founder Dov Charney, who started the company in his dorm room at Tufts University.
But the once high-flying firm struggled after the 2008-09 Wall Street market crash, was heavily in debt and went years without posting a net profit. Charney had been making slow progress in turning around the company when he was ousted in 2014 after an investigation into alleged inappropriate behavior with employees and misuse of company funds.
Troubles continued after American Apparel emerged from bankruptcy last winter. And some recent turmoil, including another leadership change, led to rumors of a sale.
Charney said Monday that there was a dramatic deterioration in the companys fortunes after he was forced out as chairman and chief executive. He is suing company officials and hedge fund Standard General for conspiring to push him out.
This dropped like a ball of lead in the water, he said of American Apparels fortunes after he left.
In a letter to employees Monday, the companys chairman, Bradley Scher, said the bankruptcy and deal with Gildan were necessary to keep the brand afloat.
We are confident that this decision is the best strategic move forward, in order to preserve the legacy of the American Apparel brand, he wrote.
Although American Apparel reached a sales agreement with Gildan, the bankruptcy filing allows for an auction in which other buyers could make competing offers, including for American Apparels retail business, Scher wrote.
Ultimately, we will be able to get the best deal done by requiring various other bidders to compete to buy our iconic brand, Scher wrote.
Charney said Monday he might consider bidding if he found a financial backer to partner with, but that he would first need to assess American Apparels financial condition.
American Apparel filed for Chapter 11 protection at U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware on Monday less than 10 months after a judge there approved a reorganization plan that took the company private. That plan, approved in January, wiped out much of the companys debt and put the company under the ownership of its creditors.
Charney, whose ownership stake was wiped out in the earlier bankruptcy, tried to derail the restructuring plan and regain control of the company.
His effort was unsuccessful, but the new privately held company continued to struggle. It laid off hundreds of employees in the spring.
In September, Paula Schneider, the CEO brought in to turn around the company, announced she was leaving. She was replaced by general counsel Chelsea Grayson amid rumors American Apparel was looking for a buyer.
In the Monday filing with the bankruptcy court, American Apparels chief restructuring officer, Mark Weinsten, said the companys turnaround plan failed.
The company faced unfavorable market conditions that were more persistent and widespread than the debtors anticipated when they emerged from the first bankruptcy, he said.
Since then, the companys sales have dropped 32.7% year over year. In 2015, it had net sales of $278 million at its worldwide retail stores and $52 million online, according to court filings.
Greif said the timing of the bankruptcy showed the situation was desperate.
When its a retailer and it files bankruptcy before the holidays, that means there was no hope, he said.
It was a brand at one time with $600 million in [annual] revenues. Its half of that now, Greif said. It has fallen mightily and it continues to pick up speed on a downhill slope.
American Apparel has secured $30 million in bankruptcy financing and needs court approval for $10 million to keep the company operating, according to court filings. Weinsten cited $3 million in payroll obligations coming due next week.
In announcing its agreement with American Apparel, Gildan said the company is a highly recognized brand among consumers and that it would separately buy American Apparel inventory to ensure a seamless supply of goods as the brand is integrated into its offerings.
jim.puzzanghera@latimes.com
Follow @JimPuzzanghera on Twitter
UPDATES:
3:45 p.m.: This article has been updated throughout with new details. Comments were added from Lloyd Greif of Greif & Co. and Garry Bell, Gildan Activewear Inc.s vice president of corporate communications.
12:30 p.m.: This article has been updated with details from court filings, comments from American Apparel founder Dov Charney and additional comments from Chairman Bradley Scher.
9:35 a.m.: This article has been updated with comments from American Apparel spokeswoman Arielle Patrick and from a letter by Chairman Bradley Scher.
This article was originally published at 8 a.m.
The chief executive of San Diego cybersecurity start-up PacketSled Inc. has resigned after election night posts on social media about assassinating President-elect Donald Trump.
Matt Harrigan, who founded PacketSled in 2013, wrote the comments on his Facebook account as election night unfolded. The account has since been deleted, but his comments were copied and posted on the website Reddit.
On Monday, Packetsled issued a statement saying Harrigan had been placed on leave. It announced Tuesday that it had accepted his resignation and is searching for a replacement.
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PacketSled takes recent comments made by our CEO seriously, it said Monday. Once we were made aware of these comments, we immediately reported this information to the Secret Service and will cooperate fully with any inquiries.
Harrigans posts on election night included one saying, Im going to kill the president. Elect, according to the Reddit copy of his Facebook comments..
After a friend responded You just need to get high, Harrigan wrote, Nope, getting a sniper rifle and perching myself where it counts. Find a bedroom in the White House that suits you. Ill find you.
On Sunday, Harrigan turned to Twitter to apologize, saying his comments were meant as a joke.
My humble apologies that a flawed joke has become public/out of context. My poor judgement does not represent the views of @packetsled customers, investors or the officers of @packetsled, Harrigan wrote in a series of tweets. I have no malicious intention towards the #POTUS, and apologize to all for my lack of judgement and offensive commentary. I wish you all well.
Efforts to reach Harrigan and PacketSled were unsuccessful. The company makes forensics software that detects where a cyberattack is coming from, what files are being targeted and which devices are being affected, among other things.
The company raised $5 million in a first round of venture capital funding in July, led by San Diegos Keshif Ventures, with Blu Ventures and JHS Ventures participating.
mike.freeman@sduniontribune.com
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UPDATES:
Nov. 15, 9:25 a.m.: This article was updated with Harrigans resignation.
This article was originally published Nov. 14 at 2:15 p.m.
Not everything is a surprise with Santtu-Matias Rouvali, a 31-year-old former Los Angeles Philharmonic Dudamel Fellow who returned Friday night to Walt Disney Concert Hall for his first subscription concert with the L.A. Phil.
Rouvali, just appointed music director of the Gothenburg Symphony in Sweden, is Finnish yet further confirmation that his small country produces more major conductors per capita than anyplace else.
He is of slight build and has a bushy mop of hair. Weve had a few of those over the years.
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And he has a certain flamboyance. Ditto, even if the stereotypical Finn tends not to be demonstrative.
But Rouvalis imaginative, often spectacular musicality is exceptional even in an era with a number of remarkable young conductors.
His program here was commonplace and weighed down with warhorses: Dvoraks Cello Concerto with Johannes Moser as soloist and Sibelius First Symphony.
A week earlier at Duke University in North Carolina, Moser joined the Pacifica Quartet for the world premiere of a new string quintet by the newly minted MacArthur Fellow Julia Wolfe. Moser, moreover, will also premiere a new piece by L.A. composer Ellen Reid in February as part of this years Laguna Beach Music Festival. Meanwhile, Rouvali makes his debut with the Cincinnati Symphony next week conducting Sibelius more challenging last two symphonies (Nos. 6 and 7) along with Esa-Pekka Salonens Violin Concerto (with Jennifer Koh as soloist).
Next to Durham and Cincinnati, L.A. might have seemed uncharacteristically uninventive. It wasnt. We compensated with riveting, original music making, everything seeming not only vital but oddly relevant.
The outlier work was Alexander Mosolovs Iron Foundry, a four-minute 1927 Soviet exclamation of a machine age promising to transform Russian society and its art. Relying on the thrill of noise and dissonance in this balletic tidbit, Mosolov anticipated by more than half a century industrial rock and heavy metal. The Constructivist score today might well resonate with many angry Americans nostalgia for an era of factories run by manpower.
The L.A. Phil happened to give the premiere in 1931 of Iron Foundry at the Hollywood Bowl. I dont know whether or not Charlie Chaplin was at that concert (he might have been), but Rouvali made it seem that way in a spectacular performance that brought to mind Chaplins 1936 silent (with sound effects) comedy, Modern Times.
Rouvalis conducting is all arms. He traces everything in the score, including the tiniest detail, with the extravagance of an animated computer graphic. He is, in his movements, downright Chaplinesque, if without the haplessness. Like Chaplin, Rouvali is always in complete control. Every gesture seems driven by an inner musicality. His Iron Foundry proved an astonishment.
Dvoraks Cello Concerto, written not much more than a quarter-century earlier in New York, is New World music with an Old World sensibility. Moser, a sophisticated and sensitive cellist, here demonstrated a rare, raw passion. The zealous Rouvali became now and then overbearing, but he mostly doubled Mosers ardor.
Something obviously was on this commanding German-Canadian cellists mind. For his encore, he said he was dedicating an intense, stirring performance of the Sarabande movement from Bachs First Solo Cello Suite to Hillary Clinton and to Leonard Cohen. The audience roared for Hillary, but there may have been a couple boos; it was hard to tell.
Rouvalis Sibelius was full of more Modernist beans. Often conductors, besotted with Sibelius soulfulness, look to the First for the first hints of the composers brooding, haunting, unforgettable soundscapes. The symphony does, after all, open with a somber clarinet solo.
But written at the cusp of the 20th century, this was also the work of a composer in his early 30s who had already found his voice and was setting out on an adventure. Rouvali combed through the pages of the First for new discoveries, something potent in the timpani or bird-like in the flute or overgenerous in the horns. When it was over, an orchestra skilled at giving a young conductor it likes everything asked of it, no matter how outrageous, was all warm smiles.
Rouvali is in the right place. Gothenburg was where his mentor, Gustavo Dudamel, learned the ropes of running a professional orchestra, a little outside the limelight. Now, once more, the Elite Park Avenue Hotel, just down the street from the Goteborgs Konserthus, will be filling up with music business suits eager to sign for the latest sensation.
mark.swed@latimes.com
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A sense of the other seeps through Viet Thanh Nguyens work, a place where war and memory play like discordant whispers, and defining ones identity, especially for an immigrant or a refugee, can be as disquieting and elusive as chasing light through a prism.
A child of the Vietnam War who arrived in this country when he was 4, Nguyen is at once outsider and citizen, provocative terrain for a writer seeking to articulate and reconcile the opposing national narratives that have shaped his life. His first novel, The Sympathizer, which won a Pulitzer Prize this year, is set against American involvement in Vietnam, as told by a sly protagonist of multiple perspectives: a spy, a sleeper, a spook, a man of two faces.
The book is gleaming and uproarious, a dark comedy of confession filled with charlatans, delusionists and shameless opportunists. It is the unabashed companion to Nguyens Nothing Ever Dies, a sobering nonfiction meditation on war, inhumanity and remembrance that is a finalist for the National Book Awards, which will be announced Wednesday.
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Such recognition has marked a busy time for Nguyen, an L.A. Times critic-at-large, who the other day sat at his dining room table, laptop open, and typed a few thoughts, more in demand these days than before he won the Pulitzer. The sound of traffic and an occasional siren drifted through his meticulously neat Silver Lake home, which overlooks the strange, ragged allure of Sunset Boulevard. Tea was served. Donald Trump was mentioned. Or, as Nguyen noted, the man who aroused white nativist feelings directed against immigrants and minorities.
Trump is the fusion of populist politics and the cult of personality; a reality TV star and one-percenter who, as Nguyen sees it, is part of a virtual economy based partly on celebrity that benefits the rich but creates no jobs.
Reality TV people dont have any real talent except to perform this fake version of their lives. That fake version is what people want, said Nguyen, who, while he opposes Trumps ideals, credited the president-elect for setting forth a brash vision that upended American politics. Its not just Trump supporters who accept reality television and celebrity culture. Its society as a whole. Were all guilty of profiting from that virtual capitalism and enjoying that virtual celebrity.
Viet Thanh Nguyen in 2015. (Bob Chamberlin / Los Angeles Times )
Americans do believe very strongly in their own innocence. When some ... say were going overseas to establish democracy ... I think they really believe that. Viet Thanh Nguyen
A trim man with a swoop of black hair rising like a small, shiny wave over his forehead, Nguyen and his family left Vietnam as refugees in 1975, the year the war ended. They settled in San Jose. His parents opened a grocery store where they were shot and wounded in a robbery years later. Nguyen learned English and the ways of his new home. As he grew older, however, he felt of himself as the other, outcast from a native land he never really knew and estranged from the country he embraced. There were stories of relatives left behind and films like Apocalypse Now, which conjured the war from an unnerving American perspective.
For me, it was never about learning to be an American. What happened actually was that other people didnt see me as an American. That was the disturbing part, said Nguyen, who graduated from UC Berkeley and teaches American studies, English and ethnicity at USC. The immigrant has always been an ambivalent figure in the United States. The immigrant has always served as a source of rejuvenation for the country and a source of fear.
This led him, as a writer, to untangle the complicated relationship between Vietnam and America, each with contentious versions of a conflict that killed more than 58,000 U.S. service personnel along with an estimated 1.3 million to more than 3 million North and South Vietnamese. Duality informs much of Nguyens work, which extrapolates the personal to the universal to explore nationalism, history, atrocity, truth and lies, ethical pliability and how, depending on allegiances, one persons monster is anothers liberator.
Its not just Trump supporters who accept reality television and celebrity culture.... Were all guilty of ... enjoying that virtual celebrity. Viet Thanh Nguyen
The narrator in The Sympathizer is a chameleon, an interloper navigating the cultures and dangerous politics of Americas intervention to stop South Vietnams communist revolution. He is a conniver with blood on his hands, satire in his veins and rationalization in his heart. He tells us: I am not some misunderstood mutant from a comic book or a horror movie, although some have treated me as such. I am simply able to see any issue from both sides.
Nothing Ever Dies is an account of humanity at its darkest, a realm of war, memory, identity and pain that ventures from the jungles of Vietnam to the killing fields of Cambodia. Nguyen writes that all wars are fought twice, the first time on the battlefield, the second time in memory. Memory is haunted, not just by ghostly others but by the horrors we have done, seen, and condoned, or by the unspeakable things from which we have profited.
That is the case when one views the broken lives, graves, refugees and ruins of Syria and Iraq. It leads to moral questions over outside powers imposing their designs on peoples and cultures that have been turned into the other to advance distant national interests. For Nguyen, Vietnam was a personal example of how American policy, which these days includes a massive arms industry, hundreds of overseas military bases, drone strikes and special operations forces, creates a psychology of perpetual war.
The Sympathizer, like Graham Greenes The Quiet American, examines American intentions, often mixed of hubris, benevolence and ineptitude, that leads the country into conflict.
Americans do believe very strongly in their own innocence. When some leaders say were going overseas to establish democracy and freedom, I think they really believe that, Nguyen said. They may also be doing it for corporate profits, but they really believe that Americans are there for democracy and freedom. And thats the dangerous part that belief in your own goodness.
Countries, after all, are as complex as characters in a good novel. And a conversation in Nguyens living room can skip across the geographies, sins and fallibilities of a vexing world. The rise of populism in the West, notably Britains vote to exit the European Union, a resurgence of nationalist parties and the election of Trump suggest a backlash by working classes against capitalism.
What were seeing is a crisis in capitalism thats always been defined by race, said Nguyen, noting that over the centuries, Europes wealth was largely built on what was colonized and extracted from Asia, Africa and Latin America. The contradiction were seeing now is those minorities and those colonized peoples have made their way to the countries that colonized them in the first place and have become more visible. And as that capitalism has faltered those white people have taken out their aggravations on these minorities and formerly colonized peoples.
See the most-read stories this hour
Twitter: @JeffreyLAT
jeffrey.fleishman@latimes.com
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After winning a number of trophies at this years Emmy Awards, The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story will also be the show to beat at the upcoming 22nd Critics Choice Awards
The Broadcast Television Journalists Assn. announced the nominees for the event this morning, and FXs The People v. O.J. Simpson topped the list. It was nominated for six awards, including TV movie or limited series. Costars Sarah Paulson, Courtney B. Vance and Cuba Gooding Jr. were also nominated in the lead acting categories.
Meanwhile, HBOs Game of Thrones, AMCs The Night Manager and Netflixs Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt each picked up five nominations.
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Coming in with four nominations each were the HBO movie All the Way, Netflixs House of Cards, Historys Roots and HBOs Veep.
Overall, HBO led the nominations with 22, while ABC and Netflix scored 14 each, and FX earned 12, half of which went to People v. O.J. The winners will be announced live at the Critics Choice Awards gala at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica. The event will be broadcast live on A&E at 5 p.m. Pacific time Dec. 11. Silicon Valley and Deadpool star T.J. Miller will host.
In this golden age of peak TV, viewers have an embarrassment of riches to choose from every day and night, Association President Joey Berlin said in a press release. The Critics Choice Awards are chosen to help people find the best of the best. We cant wait until December 11 to celebrate with all these incredibly deserving nominees.
Full list of nominations below:
COMEDY SERIES
Atlanta (FX)
black-ish (ABC)
Fleabag (Amazon)
Modern Family (ABC)
Silicon Valley (HBO)
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (Netflix)
Veep (HBO)
ACTRESS IN A COMEDY SERIES
Ellie Kemper, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (Netflix)
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Veep (HBO)
Kate McKinnon, Saturday Night Live (NBC)
Tracee Ellis Ross, black-ish (ABC)
Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Fleabag (Amazon)
Constance Wu, Fresh Off the Boat (ABC)
Tracee Ellis Ross takes you inside black-ish.
ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES
Anthony Anderson, black-ish (ABC)
Will Forte, The Last Man on Earth (FOX)
Donald Glover, Atlanta (FX)
Bill Hader, Documentary Now!, IFC
Patrick Stewart, Blunt Talk (Starz)
Jeffrey Tambor, Transparent (Amazon)
SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A COMEDY SERIES
Julie Bowen, Modern Family (ABC)
Anna Chlumsky, Veep (HBO)
Allison Janney, Mom (CBS)
Jane Krakowski, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (Netflix)
Judith Light, Transparent (Amazon)
Allison Williams, Girls (HBO)
SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES
Louie Anderson, Baskets (FX)
Andre Braugher, Brooklyn Nine-Nine (Fox)
Tituss Burgess, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (Netflix)
Ty Burrell, Modern Family (ABC)
Tony Hale, Veep (HBO)
T.J. Miller, Silicon Valley (HBO)
GUEST PERFORMER IN A COMEDY SERIES
Alec Baldwin, Saturday Night Live (NBC)
Christine Baranski, The Big Bang Theory (CBS)
Larry David, Saturday Night Live (NBC)
Lisa Kudrow, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (Netflix)
Liam Neeson, Inside Amy Schumer (Comedy Central)
ANIMATED SERIES
Archer (FX)
Bobs Burgers (Fox)
BoJack Horseman (Netflix)
Son of Zorn (Fox)
South Park (Comedy Central)
The Simpsons (Fox)
REALITY COMPETITION SERIES
Americas Got Talent (NBC)
MasterChef Junior (Fox)
RuPauls Drag Race (Logo)
Skin Wars (GSN)
The Amazing Race (CBS)
The Voice (NBC)
STRUCTURED REALITY SERIES
Chopped (Food Network)
Inside the Actors Studio (Bravo)
Penn & Teller: Fool Us (The CW)
Project Runway (Lifetime)
Shark Tank (ABC)
Undercover Boss (CBS)
UNSTRUCTURED REALITY SERIES
Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown (CNN)
Chrisley Knows Best (USA)
Deadliest Catch (Discovery)
Ice Road Truckers (History)
Intervention (A&E)
Naked and Afraid (Discovery)
TALK SHOW
Full Frontal With Samantha Bee (TBS)
Jimmy Kimmel Live (ABC)
Last Week Tonight With John Oliver (HBO)
The Daily Show With Trevor Noah (Comedy Central)
The Late Late Show with James Corden (CBS)
The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon (NBC)
REALITY SHOW HOST
Ted Allen, Chopped (Food Network)
Tom Bergeron, Dancing With the Stars (ABC)
Anthony Bourdain, Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown (CNN)
Nick Cannon, Americas Got Talent (NBC)
Carson Daly, The Voice (NBC)
RuPaul, RuPauls Drag Race (Logo)
SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES
Peter Dinklage, Game of Thrones (HBO)
Kit Harington, Game of Thrones (HBO)
John Lithgow, The Crown (Netflix)
Mandy Patinkin, Homeland (Showtime)
Christian Slater, Mr. Robot (USA)
Jon Voight, Ray Donovan (Showtime)
SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES
Christine Baranski, The Good Wife (CBS)
Emilia Clarke, Game of Thrones (HBO)
Lena Headey, Game of Thrones (HBO)
Thandie Newton, Westworld (HBO)
Maura Tierney, The Affair (Showtime)
Constance Zimmer, UnREAL (Lifetime)
Maura Tierney talks about what it was like to work on an emergency room set again on The Affair.
ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES
Sam Heughan, Outlander (Starz)
Rami Malek, Mr. Robot (USA)
Bob Odenkirk, Better Call Saul (AMC)
Matthew Rhys, The Americans (FX)
Liev Schreiber, Ray Donovan (Showtime)
Kevin Spacey, House of Cards (Netflix)
ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES
Caitriona Balfe, Outlander (Starz)
Viola Davis, How to Get Away With Murder (ABC)
Tatiana Maslany, Orphan Black (BBC America)
Keri Russell, The Americans (FX)
Evan Rachel Wood, Westworld (HBO)
Robin Wright, House of Cards (Netflix)
DRAMA SERIES
Better Call Saul (AMC)
Game of Thrones (HBO)
Mr. Robot (USA)
Stranger Things (Netflix)
The Crown (Netflix)
This Is Us (NBC)
Westworld (HBO)
GUEST PERFORMER IN A DRAMA SERIES
Mahershala Ali, House of Cards (Netflix)
Lisa Bonet, Ray Donovan (Showtime)
Ellen Burstyn, House of Cards (Netflix)
Michael J. Fox, The Good Wife (CBS)
Jared Harris, The Crown (Netflix)
Jeffrey Dean Morgan, The Walking Dead (AMC)
MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION OR LIMITED SERIES
All the Way (HBO)
Confirmation (HBO)
Killing Reagan (National Geographic)
Roots (History)
The Night Manager (AMC)
The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story (FX)
ACTOR IN A MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION OR LIMITED SERIES
Bryan Cranston, All the Way (HBO)
Benedict Cumberbatch, Sherlock: The Abominable Bride (PBS)
Cuba Gooding Jr., The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story (FX)
Tom Hiddleston, The Night Manager (AMC)
Tim Matheson, Killing Reagan (National Geographic)
Courtney B. Vance, The People v. O.J Simpson: American Crime Story (FX)
Tom Hiddleston wasnt sure if hed win an Emmy for The Night Manager, but hes been honored with a Rear of the Year award for his sex scene in it.
SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION OR LIMITED SERIES
Sterling K. Brown, The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story (FX)
Lane Garrison, Roots (History)
Frank Langella, All the Way (HBO)
Hugh Laurie, The Night Manager (AMC)
John Travolta, The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story (FX)
Forest Whitaker, Roots (History)
ACTRESS IN A MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION OR LIMITED SERIES
Olivia Colman, The Night Manager (AMC)
Felicity Huffman, American Crime (ABC)
Cynthia Nixon, Killing Reagan (National Geographic)
Sarah Paulson, The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story (FX)
Lili Taylor, American Crime (ABC)
Kerry Washington, Confirmation (HBO)
SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A MOVIE MADE FOR TELEVISION OR LIMITED SERIES
Elizabeth Debicki, The Night Manager (AMC)
Regina King, American Crime (ABC)
Sarah Lancashire, The Dresser (Starz)
Melissa Leo, All the Way (HBO)
Anna Paquin, Roots (History)
Emily Watson, The Dresser (Starz)
With pulling up stakes looking pretty good to some people right now, National Geographic Channels big new techno-colonial docudrama Mars has gained unexpected timeliness.
The six-part series, which premieres Monday, describes the campaign to settle humans on our nearest and most hospitable yet still pretty inhospitable planetary neighbor. This Mars is half aspirational documentary, half speculative fiction.
With Ron Howard (Apollo 13) and Brian Grazer among the executive producers, it is not surprisingly a glossy, classy, Rolls-Royce of a production. Both the documentary footage and the staged footage set in 2033 smack of a generous budget; its easy on the eyes. But though the alternating elements get equal time, they arent equally interesting, and the series is engaging and frustrating by turns.
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Although the fictional parts are arranged to be dramatic a pioneer story, full of obstacles the staged scenes on Mars and on Earth are oddly plodding and ponderous, pious and platitudinous. (We dream. Thats who we are. Down to our bones, our cells. We crossed the oceans, we conquered the skies, and when there were no more frontiers on Earth, we launched ourselves among the stars.) Im pretty sure therell be jokes, practical and otherwise, on the first flight to Mars, and that some of them will be rude; it lasts seven months, after all.
The documentary passages are by far the more exciting, eccentric and fun. Among the contemporary, real-world commentators (in the two episodes available for review) are Americas astronomer Neil deGrasse Tyson; Scott Kelly, who spent a year in the International Space Station to test the effects of long-term space flight on the body; and mogul Elon Musk, whose SpaceX corporation is determined to make Mars habitable. Musk who believes we need to become a spacefaring race because were going to throw away this planet like a used tissue or be fried by the sun in about a billion years is the apparent model for the series fictional visionary entrepreneur, leading an international coalition of space agencies and private industry.
Like the settings, the young, international crew of the space ship Daedalus looks good actors youd be as likely to see on a Milan runway as on a Cape Canaveral gangway. There are no Scott Kellys among them stocky, bald, bespectacled. They do their best to make their parts dimensional, but they are not given much to work with.
They are accompanied by a talking computer (Voice: British, female) that chimes in with warnings such as Your battery power is at 2%" and Recommend immediate manual replacement of faulty circuit. It seems to me that the humans make bad, if heroic, decisions here, and that their space gear provides a shocking lack of redundancy and fail-safe systems. It is true that things go wrong; but things are interesting when they go right too. Science, engineering I would have liked more of that. Where are the nerds?
But whats largely missing here is any sense that the enterprise might be exhilarating, mind-blowing, a kick only important and dangerous. My favorite moment from what Ive seen of the series is documentary footage of Kelly and two colleagues riding a capsule back to Earth from the space station, holding papers papers! in their hands, as if they might need to look something up, or assemble a shelf.
As soon as you realize youre not going to die, Kelly says of re-entry, its the most fun you ever had. Of a mission to Mars, he says, It will require more sacrifice, more radiation, more risk, more time away. Id still do it, though.
Mars
Where: National Geographic Channel
When: 9 p.m. Monday
Rating: None
robert.lloyd@latimes.com
Follow Robert Lloyd on Twitter @LATimesTVLloyd
One of the prevailing stories of the bizarre, acrimonious 2016 presidential campaign is how so many media personalities have been participants in, rather than mere observers of, the drama.
There is, of course, Fox News personality Megyn Kelly, whose feud with Donald Trump has helped turn her into an unlikely quasi-feminist hero, and Billy Bush, whose crass banter with Trump back in 2005 got him canned from his job at Today. Theres former CNN contributor and Democratic operative Donna Brazile, who leaked debate questions to Hillary Clintons campaign. And theres Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski, who went from allegedly assaulting a journalist on the campaign trail to punditry on CNN (he resigned from the news network on Friday).
But theres also another media figure whose influential role in this election has been somewhat overlooked: Seth Meyers.
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In May 2011, Meyers, then-head writer on Saturday Night Live and anchor of SNLs Weekend Update, hosted the White House Correspondents Dinner, a frivolous schmoozefest that would go on to take huge historical importance -- in more ways than one.
The dinner, at which Meyers joked about the whereabouts of Osama bin Laden, unfolded as SEAL Team Six was preparing the raid that would kill the terrorist mastermind the next day. But in a wrinkle that could ultimately have a more profound effect on American life, it also laid the groundwork for the bitterly divisive campaign between Trump and Clinton.
At the time, Trumps political profile was on the rise thanks to his status as an outspoken birther, and hed been toying with the idea of a 2012 presidential run. He was a guest -- and the butt of many a joke -- at the annual celebration, attended by power players from the world of media, showbiz and politics.
Several sources, including the New York Times, Frontline and the New Yorker, have cited the dinner as a turning point that inspired Trump, roasted before the Washington elite, to run for the White House.
Though much has been made of President Obamas cutting remarks at the dinner -- he sarcastically suggested that the difficult decisions Trump had to make as host of The Celebrity Apprentice would prepare him for the presidency -- Meyers was even more scathing in his set.
Donald Trump has been saying that hell run for president as a Republican, which is surprising, since I just assumed he was running as a joke, Meyers said as Trump looked on, grim-faced, still and plainly unamused.
Gary Busey said recently that Donald Trump would make a great president, Meyers continued. Of course, he said the same thing about an old rusty birdcage he found.
Trump couldnt even muster a conciliatory half-chuckle.
Five and half years later, Meyers remarks now seem uncomfortably prescient, reflecting the bewilderment of the 60 million or so Americans who voted for Clinton on Tuesday, many of whom considered the idea of a Trump presidency too ludicrous to contemplate.
While that reality, first imagined in an episode of The Simpsons, is still sinking in, Meyers has already positioned himself as one of late nights most outspoken Trump adversaries.
When the comedian took over the reins at Late Night two years ago, he was seen as a solid, if not particularly groundbreaking, choice for the job. A well-liked SNL veteran, he was comfortable telling timely jokes from behind a desk, but he was also the umpteenth white, male host in the deeply homogeneous world of late night.
But over the course of the long campaign, Meyers established himself as an essential voice in an overcrowded field of topical comedy, largely through his signature segment, A Closer Look, a humorous analysis of subjects in the news that clearly draws from the Jon Stewart-era Daily Show.
While others, like Daily Show alums Samantha Bee and John Oliver, have used their more permissive cable-TV berths as launching pads for left-leaning comedy, Meyers has managed to do so on network television, bucking the unspoken expectation that broadcast late-night hosts should be nonpartisan. (So has Stephen Colbert on The Late Show, though after The Colbert Report, his political perspective was never exactly a secret.)
Meyers has been a vocal critic of Trumps, bluntly accusing the Republican of bigotry and misogyny and even banning Trump from Late Night after he exiled the Washington Post from his campaign events. (It was a mostly symbolic gesture, since Trump wasnt actually scheduled to appear on the show.)
That hes done so at NBC, the network that propelled Trump to new heights of fame via The Apprentice, kept him on the air at the height of the birther flap and invited him to host SNL last year in a first for an active presidential candidate seems especially remarkable.
His pointed critiques contrast starkly with the get-along approach favored by his 30 Rock neighbor and former SNL alum Jimmy Fallon, whose jovial mussing of Trumps hair has, to some more reactionary critics, made him late nights answer to Neville Chamberlain.
Meyers has softened the smart alecky Really!? persona he deployed on Weekend Update in favor of a more earnest demeanor. On Wednesdays show, a visibly emotional Meyers presented himself as a late-night ally to groups who feel threatened by Trump.
As a white man, I also know that any emotions are likely a fraction of those being felt by the LGBT community, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Muslim Americans, any number of the immigrant communities so vital to our country, he said. So hopefully, the Trump administration and Trump supporters will be compassionate to them. Because they need your compassion.
He also tearfully acknowledged the historical milestone that many had hoped to reach with a Clinton victory, particularly his mother: She was really excited yesterday. And I was really sad for her. And he extended an olive branch to Trump supporters, saying he hoped the president-elect would live up to their expectations.
The theme of solidarity continued in a bit Thursday, with Late Night writer Amber Ruffin addressing white Clinton voters dismayed by their fellow Americans support for Trump.
That feeling youre feeling right now? Black people have been feeling forever, said Ruffin, who is black. Join the fun.
The segment played up the idea of the shared sense of alienation between white Clinton supporters and black people. (Ironically, a similar idea was at the center of an insightful Black Jeopardy sketch on SNL, only it featured a Trump supporter rather than Clinton fans.)
If Meyers played a small, unintentional part in bringing about a Trump presidency, his inclusive style of comedy may be just the thing to help many Americans navigate through it.
See the most-read stories in Entertainment this hour
Follow me @MeredithBlake
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I did that thing where I went, Why did I commit to a Sunday night event? but Im so glad I came, said Chelsea Handler, referring to Sundays kick-off dinner for Glamours Women of the Year 2016 event, whic commences Monday with a one-day summit followed by the awards ceremony and post-dinner. Held at the Freds in Barneys New Yorks Beverly Hills store and hosted by Fergie and First Lady of Los Angeles Amy Elaine Wakeland, wife of Mayor Eric Garcetti, the event welcomed the WOTY honorees to Los Angeles for the first time.
Ashley Graham, one of this years honorees, brought her mom as her date, as did Fergie. I remember watching Julia Roberts get this award eight years ago and thinking what a role model she was. Its incredible to think that there are young women who look up to me now, said Graham.
Past honoree Shonda Rhimes, who has also presented the honor to Robin Roberts, said, My favorite thing about this is being surrounded by so many interesting women.
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Among others in attendance were Chrissy Teigen, Chrissy Metz, Ahna OReilly, Gillian Jacobs, Jaime King, Kaley Cuoco, Keke Palmer, Devon Aoki, Eiza Gonzalez, Azie Tesfai and Arianne Phillips.
Its surreal to be back in Hollywood, said OReilly, who has spent the last six months on Broadway in The Robber Bridegroom. Another person who made the trip from New York was Barneys chief executive officer Mark Lee, who will walk the store Monday with his teams. Well talk about whats selling and whats not. They want to be heard, he said of his Beverly Hills colleagues.
Amplifying the message was a major reason editor in chief Cindi Leive moved the event to Los Angeles. It was time for a change of scenery, she said. Theres so much on the West Coast for women with film and technology. And this week there is so much happening. The energy is so high, the anger in some places is high, but there is certainly a lot to talk about.
During the presidential campaign, Donald Trump did his best to portray himself as compassionate towards the LGBT community a man who didnt share his partys staunchly homophobic and transphobic views. He pointedly nodded to LGBT equality in his convention speech, boasted of his friendship with Caitlyn Jenner and voiced opposition to North Carolinas infamous anti-trans bathroom bill, before changing his stance on the legislation just days later. The Log Cabin Republicans, a national gay GOP group, even called Trump the most pro-LGBT presidential nominee in the history of the Republican Party.
In an interview that aired Sunday on 60 Minutes, Trump appeared to offer an olive branch to the LGBT community. The president-elect backed off campaign promises that he would strongly consider appointing justices that would overturn the Supreme Courts 2015 decision on marriage equality if he became the 45th president of the United States. Its irrelevant because it was already settled, he said. These cases have gone to the Supreme Court. Its settled, and Im fine with it.
Yet the policy outline of Trumps first 100 days in office tells a different story about what LGBT people can expect from his presidency. Although marriage equality appears to be safe for the time being, the next four years portend a devastating attack on LGBT rights.
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Even if [Trumps] justices have little desire to overturn same-sex marriage, they could do serious damage in other areas.
Trump has pledged on his first day in office to cancel every unconstitutional executive action, memorandum, and order issued by President Obama. In doing so, he will nullify crucial protections for LGBT workers. In 2014, Obama signed Executive Order 13672, which states that federal contractors cannot be fired on the basis of their gender identity or sexual orientation. Just 19 states currently have such protections in place, and Obamas executive order was seen as a crucial step forward toward nationwide equality.
In allowing legal discrimination against LGBT people, Trump plans to go even further. He has previously expressed his support for the First Amendment Defense Act, a piece of legislation thats strikingly similar to the anti-LGBT legislation passed in Indiana by his second-in-command, Gov. Mike Pence. The bill would allow businesses, landlords and even healthcare providers the right to deny services to LGBT individuals based on their religious beliefs by preventing anyone from taking action against them for doing so.
Thus, it could soon be legal for a caterer to decline to host a same-sex wedding or an employer to fire you for being gay.
The Obama administrations repeated support for trans students is also on the chopping block. In 2016, the federal government issued a set of guidance for administrators and school staff on how to support trans students. That letter, which is not legally binding, instructs campuses to allow students to use the restroom that most closely corresponds with their gender identity.
In October, Pence claimed that rolling back these protections is a done deal.
Donald Trump and I simply believe that all of these issues are best resolved at the state level, the Republican said on James Dobsons radio show.
Washington has no business intruding on the operation of our local schools, Pence said. I can tell you, Its just one more example of the heavy hand and liberal agenda of this administration working its way into the purview of the states and the people when it comes to our kids, and the operation of our schools, those decisions should be made at the local level.
Stripping away those rights could have a grave impact on trans students: A study from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and UCLAs Williams Institute found that 41% of transgender people attempt suicide at some point in their lives. They are most likely to do so in environments where they have few legal protections.
The most crucial blow will be the Supreme Court, which has yet to see a replacement for Justice Antonin Scalia after months of Republican obstruction. Trump told Fox News Chris Wallace in January that he would strongly consider appointing judges that will overturn the Supreme Courts 2015 ruling on marriage equality. A leaked shortlist of potential nominees shows that he could do just that. The roster includes anti-LGBT judges like 11th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals Judge William H. Pryor Jr., who in 2003 filed an amicus brief in Lawrence vs. Texas supporting the states anti-sodomy laws, and Texas Supreme Court Justice Don Willett, who once compared same-sex unions to marrying bacon.
Even if those justices have little desire to overturn same-sex marriage, they could do serious damage in other areas.
Trumps pick will have an enormous impact on a landmark case scheduled to be heard by the Supreme Court. Gavin Grimm, a transgender high school student in Gloucester, Va., sued his local school district to overturn a policy blocking him from using the mens restroom on campus. If Trump has promised to appoint a nominee in the mold of Scalia, a justice who tirelessly fought against LGBT rights during his time on the bench, thats extremely bad news for trans students.
Defenders of Trump say its difficult to know what he would actually do simply because as a businessman, he doesnt have a record to judge from. His running mate, however, does.
During his tenure in House of Representatives, Pence voted twice to add an amendment to the Constitution that would define marriage solely as the union between one man and one woman. While running for that Congressional seat in 2000, Pence advocated that life-saving HIV funding allotted under the Ryan White Care Act be instead diverted to programs which provide assistance to those seeking to change their sexual behavior. Thats a nod to conversion therapy, the dangerous, harmful practice of trying to cure LGBT people of their same-sex attractions. It has been condemned by the American Psychological Assn. and outlawed in California.
Tony Perkins, who was appointed to Trumps pro-life advisory council this year, is also a strong proponent of conversion therapy. When the Republican National Convention embraced conversion therapy in its 2016 platform, Perkins only concern was that its anti-LGBT advocacy didnt go far enough, as Right Wing Watch reported.
In addition to Pence and Perkins, Trump surrounds himself with politicians and leaders with a consistent record of opposing LGBT rights.
Trumps alleged Cabinet shortlist is filled with names like New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Newt Gingrich, both of whom are staunchly opposed to same-sex marriage. Trumps rumored pick for secretary of Defense, Sen. Jeff Sessions of Alabama, repeatedly voted against adding sexual orientation or gender identity to hate crime legislation. Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee, who could be the next Secretary of State, was one of 24 Republican senators who criticized the Obama administrations support of trans students.
Then theres Trumps new chief strategist and senior counselor, Breitbart News Stephen Bannon, who once referred to members of Seven Sisters schools as a bunch of dykes.
Just because Trump has flip-flopped on repealing marriage equality doesnt mean that hes seen the light on equality. LGBT issues will soon face roadblocks at every level of the federal government, whether its from Trumps inner circle or a majority-Republican Congress that has the ability to roll back the clock on progress by decades.
Trumps 60 Minutes interview may seem like a small victory for LGBT rights, but the bigger fights are still to come.
Nico Lang is the East Coast reporter for the Advocate. You can also read his work on Salon, Onion A.V. Club and the Guardian. Find him on Twitter @nico_lang.
Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook
Not my president: Protesters rally at MacArthur Park
Nearly 100 protesters gathered at the corner of Alvarado Street and Wilshire Boulevard Saturday morning, chanting phrases like Donald Trump go away -- sexist, racist, anti-gay, and Hey hey, ho ho, Donald Trump has got to go.
Joel Cordiero, 65, held a sign that said: Not my president.
The words he said, we cant forget, said Cordiero, who lives in Beverly Hills. We need to let him know hes not going to get away with anything.
Protesters waved rainbow flags and held signs that read: Hate aint great and global warming is real, among others.
More protesters are arriving to the protest in MacArthur Park in LA.@latimes @latimesphotos pic.twitter.com/XrB5DTUM8a Francine Orr/LATimes (@francineorr) November 12, 2016
A group of women chanted: My body, my choice, to which a group of men responded: Your body, your choice.
Kim White, 52, said she was angry about the way Trump talks about and treats women.
I cant believe hes representing our country, said White, who lives in Highland Park.
People are like: Give him a break, he didnt mean it, she said. Im sorry. Words matter.
Jason Ramirez-Cabral, 24, was one of the first protesters to arrive at 8:15 a.m., straight from his job as a night worker on the docks in San Pedro.
He brought face paint in his tote bag and said he was planning to paint a peace sign that would cover his whole face.
I was sad the night it happened, said Ramirez-Cabral, who lives in Fontana. Now, Im angry.
Some of his family members are in the country illegally, he said. I dont know what the future holds, " he said.
A Bay Area teacher was put on leave for comparing President-elect Donald Trump to Adolf Hitler. A woman speaking Assyrian on a Bay Area Rapid Transit train was accosted by another passenger who told her, Trump might deport you.
Some Latino students in Northern California were given mock deportation letters by a classmate. And a high school student in San Mateo County was given a bloody nose after voicing support for Trump on Instagram.
In the days since Trump was elected president of the United States, one thing has been certain in this divided country: Tensions are high.
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The outpouring of anger has little recent historic parallel, said John J. Pitney, a professor of American politics at Claremont McKenna College and a former Republican policy aide. Pitney said the closest comparison was with the election of 1800 in which Thomas Jefferson defeated John Adams in a bitterly waged campaign that included the candidates trading insults.
For many people, this years election was less a choice between two candidates than about whether voters felt they would have a place in America, he said.
A lot of people didnt just see this election as a matter of political choice but a matter of identity, Pitney said. On the one hand, many of the people who voted for Trump see themselves as forgotten and disrespected, and many of the people who are against Trump see themselves as groups under threat. Feelings are going to run very hot.
Demonstrators across the country have blocked streets in protest of the president-elect. On Saturday, some 8,000 people marched from MacArthur Park to downtown Los Angeles, shouting Not my president! as they formed one of the nations largest demonstrations so far. Hundreds more peacefully rallied in Hollywood on Sunday.
In other instances, demonstrating has turned ugly. Los Angeles police arrested hundreds of protesters who marched in downtown L.A. in recent days, saying they vandalized property, blocked roads, hurled bottles and refused to disperse. Taggers scrawled anti-Trump messages and profanity on downtown buildings, tunnels, sidewalks even on a television news van and a police cruiser.
Anxiety has been so high that calls to anti-suicide and crisis hotlines have spiked since the votes were counted.
Steve Mendelsohn, deputy executive director of The Trevor Project, a West Hollywood-based organization that provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ people, said his organization has seen a dramatic increase in calls and messages this week.
Over 95% of those who called mentioned Donald Trump, Mendelsohn said. The general theme was anxiety and fear.
They worried about potential bullying, their healthcare and whether gay marriage would be reversed, he said. On Wednesday and Thursday, the organization received 688 calls and messages. On the same days last year, they got 307 such contacts, he said.
Fernando Guerra, a political scientist and director of the Center for the Study of Los Angeles at Loyola Marymount University, said the surprise outcome of the election, which many polls had predicted would be won by Democrat Hillary Clinton, is a major factor in the intense reactions.
So many groups were told this wasnt going to happen, both Trump and Clinton supporters, Guerra said. Both are shocked.
Guerra said that while he thinks the protests are a great outlet for a lot of people feeling threatened and emotionally displaced, the large demonstrations will last only a few weeks (and possibly re-emerge around Trumps January inauguration) because it is difficult to organize and sustain ongoing protests.
He also believes the uptick in racially charged incidents is temporary because American public opinion is overwhelmingly opposed to racism especially if Trump and his supporters condemn racist acts.
This is where leadership counts, Guerra said.
The president-elect tweeted this week that he thought professional protesters who were incited by the media were behind the anti-Trump demonstrations. Hours later, he tweeted that he loved that small groups of protesters have passion for our great country.
In a 60 Minutes interview that aired Sunday night, Trump said he was very surprised to hear of an increase in racial slurs and threats against minorities since his election.
I am so saddened to hear that, he said. And I say, Stop it. I will say right to the cameras: Stop it.
The Southern Poverty Law Center said Friday evening that it had counted 201 incidents of election-related harassment and intimidation across the country with the most commonly reported locations being K-12 schools. California Atty. Gen. Kamala Harris on Thursday sent a bulletin to state law enforcement agencies detailing hate crime laws. In recent weeks, she said, there had been an uptick in threats of hate crimes and extremist violence in California.
Last week, a Muslim student at San Diego State was robbed by two men who made comments about Trump and Muslims before grabbing her purse and backpack and stealing her car, university police said.
In Redding, a Shasta High School student handed out deportation letters to Latino classmates, and a video of the incident was posted on Twitter, said Shasta Union High School District Supt. Jim Cloney, who said he believed the episode was related to Trumps election.
In the town of Woodside on the San Francisco Peninsula, a high school sophomore who wrote on Instagram that she hoped Trump would win the election was beat up by classmates who told her: You support Trump. You hate Mexicans, ABC News reported.
Still, with the rhetoric so high, there are other instances in which people question whether reactions to Trump are overblown or even tied to the president-elect at all.
On Thursday, a history teacher at Mountain View High School in the Bay Area was placed on paid administrative leave after comparing Trump to Hitler. Frank Navarro, who has taught at the school for 40 years, was asked to leave after the administration received an email from a parent concerned about statements he made in class, the Mercury News reported.
Navarro is an expert on the Holocaust, a Mandel Fellow for the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum who studied at the International Center for the Study of the Holocaust in Jerusalem. He told the Mercury News his lesson plan was based on historical fact and that Hitlers persecution of Jews and rise to power has remarkable parallels to Trumps statements about Latinos, Muslims and African Americans during his bid for the presidency.
School administrators said Navarro could return to the classroom as early as Monday. The same day Navarro was suspended, a high school principal in the nearby city of Milpitas was placed on leave for saying an anti-Trump expletive during a student walkout.
On Friday, U.S. Rep. Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael) tweeted pictures of three young men hoisting Confederate flags at the Veterans Day parade in the Northern California city of Petaluma. Huffman said in interviews that some of the men were wearing Trump T-shirts and that he thought the Trump campaign had legitimized some shadow groups and points of view.
In a lengthy Facebook post Saturday night, he shared a response from one of the men displaying the flag, who said they were actually protesting against Huffman, who pushed the Department of Veterans Affairs this year to prohibit the flying of the Confederate flag on permanent flag poles at national cemeteries. Huffman did not return calls for comment.
Steven Kemmerle, who has organized the Veterans Day parade in Petaluma for the last 12 years, told The Times on Sunday that the young men didnt say anything to anybody; they just stood there.
Kemmerle, a 72-year-old Republican, said he didnt think the flags had anything to do with Trump.
The United States Constitution allows you freedom of speech, he said. But it does not allow you to deface buildings, roll cars or attack people.
haily.branson@latimes.com
ruben.vives@latimes.com
For more Southern California news, follow us on Twitter: @haileybranson and @latvives.
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The change of seasons has taken its time.
But after a statewide spell of warm temperatures with record highs reported in Paso Robles, Fresno and San Francisco forecasters expect thermometers to dip for much of the state this week, bringing a below-average chill and powerful gusty winds.
But there will be a last blast of heat before it gets cold, said National Weather Service meteorologist Robbie Munroe.
Itll be pretty dry, said Munroe, who predicted temperatures across Southern Californias inland valleys to hover in the upper 80s to low 90s. Along the coast, he expected the temperatures to reach the low 80s.
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On Monday, the San Diego area will see temperatures up to 20 degrees warmer than usual, according to the National Weather Service.
By Wednesday and Thursday, the cooling will be well underway, with temperatures topping out in the low 70s, while coastal areas will see highs only in the upper 60s.
From Santa Barbara Countys south coast up through the Grapevine, gusty winds could top 60 mph, with coastal mountains seeing gusts of up to 40 mph.
It will be much cooler, Munroe said.
From the Central Valley to the Sacramento area, the cooling period will begin earlier in the week, and light showers are possible in the Bay Area and Napa Valley through Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.
Along the Northern California coast, scattered hail is possible.
matt.hamilton@latimes.com
Twitter: @MattHjourno.
The vast majority of California community college students take remedial math and English classes but that college-prep work is largely failing to help most of them complete their academic or vocational programs.
Eight of 10 community college students first are placed in remedial classes to gain college-level skills before moving to courses that count for credit. But only 16% of those students earn a skills certificate or two-year degree within six years, and just 24% transfer to a four-year university, according to a study by the Public Policy Institute of California.
In fact, remedial courses also called developmental education may drive students to drop out because they add time and cost to academic programs while not necessarily being relevant to them, the study found.
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In its current form, developmental education may be one of the largest impediments to success in Californias community colleges, the study said.
However, it noted that state educators have begun to launch reforms and legislators are boosting spending for them.
California Community Colleges is the nations largest system of higher education, with 2.1 million students at 113 campuses.
Olga Rodriguez, a co-author of the study, said one problem with the current system was that some students were mistakenly placed in remedial classes. Most campuses long have relied almost exclusively on standardized test scores for those placements, but research by Columbia University and others has found the exams poorly predict college success.
As a result, many colleges are changing their placement process for instance, allowing a student with a high school GPA of at least 2.6, or a B-, to bypass remediation regardless of standardized test scores. Latino and African American students, who are over-represented in remedial classes, stand to reap the largest benefits.
When Butte College expanded access to college-level English courses, 40% of students who would have been placed in remediation earned As and Bs. Black and Latino students who had fared the worst under the previous placement process more than doubled their completion of college English, according to the California Acceleration Project, a network led by state community college faculty.
Another issue is that most campuses require as many as four remediation courses before students can enroll in college-level classes a long and costly road that drives many to drop out, researchers said. The study found that only 44% of students completed the math sequence and 60% completed the English sequence.
The traditional multicourse sequences happening at all colleges across the system is leading to a lot of students dropping off their trajectory, Rodriguez said.
But the Public Policy Institute study found that two-thirds of the campuses have redesigned their remediation education in recent years to help students make faster progress.
Some have compressed elementary and intermediate algebra into a single course. Others have expanded flexibility allowing those not heading into math-based fields to learn statistics rather than algebra.
Another experiment in California and elsewhere involves placing students in the remedial and college-level courses at the same time. Results from five states showed that those students more than doubled their course completion rates to 60% in half the time or better, the report noted.
State legislators are backing the reforms with bucks, giving nearly $500 million to community colleges last year for remedial education.
However, Rodriguez said, only 8.3% of all students have enrolled in the redesigned courses. She also cautioned that more research was needed to see what actually works among the flurry of reforms.
teresa.watanabe@latimes.com
Twitter: @TeresaWatanabe
A 45-year-old lobster diver was found dead Monday near Manhattan Beach Pier after he had gone missing almost 24 hours earlier.
Members from the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department dive team found the lobster hunters body about 10:55 a.m. in an underwater pipe, according to authorities.
Jeff Tolly disappeared about 11 a.m. Sunday about three miles north of Manhattan Beach Pier, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. Authorities said Tolly likely entered the pipe in search of the crustacean.
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Spencer Parker, an ocean lifeguard specialist with Los Angeles County Fire Department, told KTLA-TV that its common for divers to wander into the narrow pipe to look for lobsters.
Tolly was last seen wearing his black diving suit with fins and a scuba tank.
The Coast Guard launched a helicopter and two 87-foot patrol boats from Channel Islands and Corona Del Mar.
veronica.rocha@latimes.com
For breaking news in California, follow @VeronicaRochaLA on Twitter.
In the days since Donald Trumps election, thousands have marched in Los Angeles, waving signs and shouting their disapproval of the president-elect over the growl of helicopter blades and the wail of police sirens.
On Sunday afternoon at Silver Lake Meadow, about 500 people gathered for a quieter form of protest. Mostly women, they sat in circles, spread blankets and shared picnic food as they talked about how to present a brave face to fearful children, how to defuse their own anger toward Trump supporters and how to turn their emotions into activism.
Hillary Clintons loss felt personal for the events organizers, Kara Durrett and Ellen Etten, who work as personal assistants in Hollywood. Election night had them both in tears, and they were up until the early hours of the morning, texting each other stunned, disbelieving messages. Both said the election loss felt like a breakup.
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Its like the country broke up with you, but you realized that you should have never been dating anyway, said Durrett, 29.
Now were in the phase where were going to the gym all the time and trying new things, added Etten, who is 34.
Samara Bay, center, listens in a circle with her son Wilder, 1.5 years old, as women, children and families gather at Silver Lake Meadow to talk about Donald Trump on Nov. 13, 2016. (Patrick T. Fallon / Los Angeles Times )
Neither one is an experienced political activist. Three days before, the women created a Facebook event and invited their friends to come discuss how to go forward after Clintons defeat.
Lets gather to share words of inspiration, ideas for action, or simply grieve with one another as needed. In these challenging moments, we must come together and remember that we are not alone, and we are powerful, they wrote.
They thought about 50 people would show up. But more than 1,000 said they planned to come.
So Durrett and Etten set up a sign-in sheet, a mailing list and a new Facebook group called Stronger Together LA. They were, said a friend, flying by the seat of their pantsuits.
They showed up at Silver Lake Meadow with a case of water, a borrowed table and silver balloons in the shape of the letters P, S and N, as in Pantsuit Nation.
They didnt think to get a permit. They had no speakers or megaphones. Durrett stood on a chair and shouted a greeting to the crowd before people split into smaller groups.
In one circle, people shared and dispelled some of the many rumors bouncing around social media for example, that the viral efforts to donate to Planned Parenthood on behalf of Vice President-elect Mike Pence would wind up giving him a big tax break. After some discussion, they all agreed that those who wanted to donate to Planned Parenthood would be better off not mentioning Pence.
In another circle, someone argued that calling local politicians would be far more effective than signing online petitions. Another asked which politician to call. No one knew.
Others discussed how California could fight potential Trump policies, and the need to donate to Foster Campbell, a Louisiana Democrat facing a runoff election for the U.S. Senate next month.
In the crowd was evidence of plenty of female pride: Rosie the Riveter lunchboxes, T-shirts that proclaimed The Future Is Female.
Exit polls have suggested that more than half of white women voters chose Trump. That demographic was the majority of those gathered on Sunday. Some found that particular voting postmortem hard to swallow.
Devastating, disappointing. Total shock, said screenwriter Tara Miele.
Miele chalked it up to subconscious sexism from women.
Its a reaction against a type of woman that wants to sit at the table and not just stand behind her man, she said.
Some women vowed to confront their own families. Alyson Lippert, 26, said she would no longer be shy about sharing her political opinions with her conservative Kansas family.
She said she was heading home for Thanksgiving, and Im going to be the loudest person there. Im going to be screaming.
Jackie Tavelman, 60, a high school teacher in West Los Angeles, said she spends her days this time of year writing college recommendation letters for students. Some are undocumented and now dont know whether theyll be deported before they can go.
She came to the gathering for them.
I wanted to take action in a constructive way and hopefully bring some information back to my students who need to know what will happen to them, Tavelman said.
Etten said she and Durrett still are deciding what theyll do next. They plan to meet monthly and disseminate information about anti-Trump initiatives via their Facebook group.
This is just a beginning, she said.
frank.shyong@latimes.com
Twitter: @frankshyong
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A North Hollywood man has been arrested on suspicion of stabbing two men in a public park, killing one and seriously wounding the other.
Anthony James Medrano, 29, was booked on suspicion of murder and attempted murder after the Saturday morning assaults at the Victory Vineland Recreation Center Park, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
Police were called about 6:30 a.m. to the park in the 11100 block of Victory Boulevard and found the two men with multiple stab wounds, authorities said.
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Medrano allegedly confronted and assaulted Federico Hernandez, 67, who had been walking through the park and collecting cans and bottles, according to a police statement.
The suspectt repeatedly stabbed Hernandez, police alleged, before knifing a 61-year-old man in another part of the park.
Hernandez, a resident of North Hollywood, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The other victim was rushed to the hospital, where he remained in serious condition, police said. His name was not released.
Police did not say what motivated the attacks.
Medrano has not been formally charged and was being held without bail in Los Angeles County jail, according to inmate records. An attorney for Medrano could not be reached for comment.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact LAPD Det. Dave Peteque at (818) 374-1934.
matt.hamilton@latimes.com
Twitter: @MattHjourno.
A Stanislaus County sheriffs deputy who was slain by a gunman Sunday had always wanted to work in law enforcement and loved his community, family members recalled during a vigil hours after the lawmans death.
Were both sons of a law enforcement officer and thats all we ever wanted to do as kids, said Dave Wallace, whose brother, Dennis Wallace, was shot twice in the head Sunday morning, according to KXTV.
We truly loved each other, and I can tell you that Dennis truly loved this community, Wallace said.
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The Stanislaus County sheriffs deputy was shot and killed in an execution carried out by a wanted man who was caught hours after he carjacked one motorist, robbed a liquor store and tried to snatch a purse from a woman in Tulare County, authorities said.
Deputy Wallace, a 20-year department veteran, was shot twice in the head shortly after coming across a stolen van in Fox Grove Park, just outside the city of Hughson, Stanislaus County Sheriff Adam Christianson told reporters at a news conference.
We know for a fact that the gun used in this crime was in direct contact with his head when the trigger was pulled twice, Christianson said in a video posted by news station KCR3. This was an execution.
The suspect, identified as David Machado Jr., 36, fled before carjacking a 2009 white Kia Rio in the nearby community of Keyes, Christianson said. The van was abandoned nearby.
While on the run, Machado traveled at least 150 miles before committing an armed robbery at a convenience store in Lindsay, about 15 miles east of the city of Tulare in the Central Valley, Christianson said during another news conference announcing the suspects arrest. Then, shortly after noon, Machado tried to steal a purse from a woman, who fought back and called police, he said.
Police officers who responded to her report chased Machado on foot and took him into custody, the sheriff said.
He surrendered to those peace officers who were chasing him, Christianson said.
He said Machado was identified through his tattoos and a photograph that had been released to other law enforcement agencies.
Authorities have recovered a van Machado used to flee from Fox Grove Park as well as the Kia Rio he carjacked later, according to Christianson.
Theres still much work to be done, Christianson said. We will be bringing Mr. Machado back here to Stanislaus County to stand trial and we will seek justice, and justice will be done in this case.
Christianson said the events that led to the shooting began about 8:24 a.m. Sunday, when Wallace called in and was told by dispatch that a car he saw at the Fox Grove Fishing Access was stolen. Wallace asked for another unit but never responded to additional messages from dispatchers, Christianson said.
A second deputy discovered Wallace when he arrived. The gunman had fled, Christianson said. The carjacking in Keyes occurred about 8:40 a.m., the sheriff said.
Machado, he said, had an outstanding warrant in connection with another felony, but the sheriff did not elaborate.
He is a known criminal, Christianson said.
Wallace, he said, was well-known for working on anti-drug and early intervention programs. He was married with a family, the sheriff said.
Right now its kind of in a fog, Wallaces brother said at Sundays vigil. But the fog will clear, the sun will shine and we cannot and will not let evil win.
Some who mourned the deputy showed their support for the department by delivering flowers. Law enforcement agencies throughout the state also sent their condolences through social media.
The killing of Deputy Dennis Wallace has had a tremendous negative effect on all of the organization, Christianson said. Weve lost someone who is special to us.
The killing was the second in four years for the Stanislaus County Sheriffs Department. In 2012, Deputy Robert Paris, a 16-year department veteran, was killed along with a civilian when a gunman opened fire as authorities tried to serve an eviction notice at an apartment complex in Modesto.
Last month, four law enforcement officers were slain in California in a two-week period.
On Oct. 6, Los Angeles County Sheriffs Sgt. Steve Owen was shot as he responded to a burglary report in Lancaster. Authorities said Trenton Trevon Lovell, 27, shot Owen and then stood over the wounded lawman and pumped an additional four rounds into his body. Lovell, 27, has been charged with murdering Owen, attempted murder of a second sheriffs deputy and other charges. He was scheduled to be arraigned Monday.
Days after Owens death, Palm Springs Police Officers Lesley Zerebny, 27, and Jose Gil Vega, 63, were shot and killed in what officials said was a planned attack. The Riverside County district attorney said John Hernandez Felix, 26, set a trap for officers and ambushed them as they stood outside his door. Authorities also said Felix used an assault rifle with an extended magazine and wore body armor during the shooting. As a convicted felon, Felix was prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.
On Oct. 19, Modoc County Sheriffs Deputy Jack Hopkins was gunned down while responding to a disturbance call. Modoc officials said Hopkins was killed as he entered a property about eight miles south of Alturas when he was confronted and shot by Jack Lee Breiner. The deputy was killed instantly.
As he fled, Breiner, 47, engaged another deputy in a gunbattle and was shot and wounded, authorities said. He has been charged with murder and other crimes in connection with the killing.
On Sunday, Christianson lamented having to face reporters again to announce the slaying of one of his deputies and called for a show of unity for law enforcement nationwide.
Unfortunately, we do this far too often here in California and nationwide, he said. You have to ask yourself the question: Where does it stop? Where does it end?
ruben.vives@latimes.com
Staff writer Joseph Serna contributed to this report.
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A firefighter was hospitalized after he burned his hand fighting a raging fire at a strip mall in Winnetka early Monday, authorities said.
The blaze was reported just before 3 a.m. in the 20800 block of Sherman Way, where a 4,500-square-foot, single-story strip mall was engulfed in flames. An estimated 106 firefighters battled the flames, and the blaze was put out in under an hour, authorities said.
The firefighter who burned his hand was listed in fair condition at a local hospital. The building was 61 years old and did not have fire sprinklers, the Los Angeles Fire Department said.
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A cause for the fire is under investigation.
joseph.serna@latimes.com
For breaking California news, follow @JosephSerna on Twitter
Facing charges of healthcare fraud, Tigran Svadjian, a Newport Beach doctor, agreed to go undercover for federal prosecutors.
But before he would wear a wire, he told them, he needed to visit his ailing mother in Russia.
He never returned. The day he was to appear in court in 2002, prosecutors received paperwork from a Russian morgue stating that, just a few days before on a Moscow street, Svadjian died of pneumonia.
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More than 10 years passed before prosecutors asked a judge to dismiss the charges against Svadjian. In 2013, they discarded the evidence collected against him.
The criminal case against Svadjian was over. His estate was divided up among creditors. His wife and children moved on with efforts to rebuild their lives.
Then, one day in July, a man traveling on a fake Lithuanian passport landed in Kiev.
::
Svadjian began his career as a medical student at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx. He was still a student when, at 25, he married Emilya Badzhaksizyan in 1983.
A year later they had their first child, Andre, in New York. After Svandjians graduation, the young family moved to Southern California, where his father was also a doctor.
The couple welcomed their first daughter, Alexandra, in 1986. Soon after, Svadjian, a native of Armenia, launched his own practice and expanded it into two offices in Orange County.
Then, in 1998, Svadjian made a fateful decision. He purchased the Southwest Medical Group from a man ensnared in a federal medical fraud investigation, according to court records. The man also had suspected ties to Armenian and Russian organized crime.
The man and dozens of other doctors were believed to have overbilled the government at least $13 million for medical tests and procedures at its offices in Burbank, Ventura and San Francisco, news clippings from the time show.
Svadjian would later tell investigators that he was not involved, according to court records.
But by 2002, the governments focus had turned on him anyway.
According to a letter the state Department of Health and Human Services sent to Svadjian that year, a 14-month audit of his practices in Fresno and Los Angeles revealed he had overbilled California more than $1.9 million in treatments for state-insured patients.
The letter claimed Svadjian provided only 13 of 200 medical records the state requested as part of an audit and that he could not account for 94% of the services he had allegedly performed. Some of the patients he had supposedly treated were dead, authorities said.
Prosecutors eventually made Svadjian an offer, according to an FBI affidavit filed this summer: If he wore a wire and turned against his co-conspirators, his case would be kept confidential and the charges possibly reduced.
Svadjian agreed and hopped on a flight to Russia. His lawyer told prosecutors that hed be back by the end of October.
But on the last day of that month, Svadjians attorney in L.A. sent federal prosecutors in Sacramento a fax. Included was a Report of the Death of an American Citizen Abroad from the U.S. Embassy in Moscow. Svadjian had died 11 days prior on Barklaya Street, the document said.
His remains were cremated and given to his mother, Margarita Petrosova.
::
The Egyptian town of Hurghada had blossomed from a once-quiet fishing village stretching along the Red Sea to a beach resort that drew tourists with immaculate hotels and charming night life.
See the most-read stories this hour
It was there, in late 2002, that Vasily Petrosov found a home and began earning a living as a part-time scuba instructor. He fell in love with a woman from Sochi, Russia, a resort city on the coast of the Black Sea.
In 2012, the couple had their first child, a son. Things were looking up for Petrosov and by the end of last year, he expected a second child.
But this would be a difficult pregnancy, and would require a caesarean procedure. Petrosovs girlfriend flew back to her hometown, where the medical care would be better. There she would wait for him.
Petrosov did not have a passport. The one he had was fake, and authorities seized it when he tried to renew it in Russia years before. Petrosov contacted a Lithuanian friend in Hurghada and purchased another fake passport.
Petrosov became Viktoras Cajevkis. A Lithuanian.
Armed with his passport and other documents, Cajevkis left Egypt for Russia with a stop in the Ukraine.
But authorities in Kiev soon realized his passport was fraudulent and sent him back to Hurghada, where Egyptian police arrested him on July 31. Determined to find out who he really was, they searched his apartment, which yielded a Russian passport under the name of Petrosov.
They also found a canceled American passport with another name.
Tigran Svadjian.
::
In the time Svadjian was gone, his father in California was diagnosed with prostate cancer and died. His daughter got married and had a son.
His wife, Emilya, spent years in court fighting off creditors seeking to liquidate family assets to pay off millions of his debt.
Some of Svadjians family members knew that he had not died, the affidavit says. His mother reportedly visited him in Egypt and he told investigators that he spoke to his father over the phone after vanishing, though they never saw each other again.
But its unclear whether his wife and children knew his secret, according to a federal affidavit. When reached by a Times reporter, Emilya Svadjian said she was surprised to discover her ex-husband was not dead.
How do you think I feel? I was given a death certificate, his ashes, she said during a brief phone interview. Its devastating and I cant talk about it.
Greta Flate, whose husband represented Emilya Svadjian when she handled his last will and testament, was shocked to learn Tigran Svadjian was alive.
What! What! That is wild! she said. We never asked any questions.
::
On Monday, Aug. 1, Egyptian police notified the U.S. Embassy in Cairo that they may have an American citizen in custody.
Late night on Thursday, Egyptian police escorted four representatives of the U.S. Embassy an FBI special agent, a diplomatic security special agent, an American Citizen Services officer and a Foreign Service National investigator to the Hurghada police station to interview their mystery man.
They told the man he had the right to an attorney. He declined the offer and agreed to cooperate.
They took his fingerprints and sent them to the FBIs high-tech Criminal Justice Investigative Services Division in West Virginia. But according to court records, Svadjian admitted who he was and gave his real date of birth, Social Security number, and showed them his U.S. naturalization certificate.
Then, according to the FBI affidavit, he unraveled for them the tale of how he remained hidden for so long:
While overseas in October 2002, Svadjian met a Russian police officer at a party who said that for a service fee the man could fake his death. Svadjian agreed and paid $200 for the privilege of being dead, courtesy of falsified paperwork from a morgue in Moscow.
He then obtained the Russian passport under the name Vasily Petrosov, whose birthday was in February 1961. Svadjian told his interrogators that the pseudonym was an old family name and the birthday belonged to one of his cousins.
He moved to Egypt, where his father had citizenship and authorities at the time didnt check documents. He applied for citizenship there, authorities said, though he never got it.
Svadjian faced up to 10 years in prison on his original case, but the charges had a five-year statute of limitations. Its unclear whether the statute was suspended after he vanished.
Additionally, federal authorities discarded the evidence against him, thinking he was dead, the affidavit said. U.S. attorney officials said evidence on old cases is typically sent into storage, but they could not speak to what happened with the evidence they had against Svadjian.
Though Svadjian sits in a federal holding cell in downtown L.A, he faces only a single charge of unlawful flight to avoid prosecution, which carries a maximum five-year sentence half what he faced before he vanished. Prosecutors said they expect to reach a plea agreement with Svadjian by mid-November and wont prosecute him on the old, and much more serious, Medi-Cal fraud charges.
When he was caught, authorities say, Svadjian had $2,000 in cash and $10,000 in an Egyptian bank account. His girlfriend had $260,000 in her accounts but he was unable to access it, the FBI said.
While Svadjian was abroad, the state Department of Health and Human Services sought a judges order to allow them to take his familys home in a gated Newport Beach neighborhood.
The state gave up its fight in 2005 and a year later, Emilya Svadjian divided her ex-husbands $63,000 in assets among the family. Her claim on his life insurance was rejected.
But the FBI said she managed to empty out a Swiss bank account Svadjian maintained with $3 million.
To read the article in Spanish, click here
Joseph.serna@latimes.com
For breaking California news, follow @JosephSerna on Twitter.
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Crews set out early in the morning Monday to battle a brush fire on the edge of the Angeles National Forest in Tujunga Canyon that ended up scorching 44 acres, the Los Angeles County Fire Department said.
The fire was reported to have burned about a quarter of an acre by 5:30 a.m., officials said, and grew to about 10 acres within two hours as it raced uphill through drought-parched grass and brush in the 13000 block of Little Tujunga Canyon Road.
A fire that broke out today in the Angeles National Forest near Tujunga burned about 50 acres of brush, but no structures were threatened.
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City and county firefighters rushed to the area to battle the flames. No structures were reported threatened or damaged, said Supervisor Michael Pittman of L.A. County Fire.
U.S. Forest Service and county helicopters dropped water on the flames.
With about 200 firefighters combating the blaze, the fire was 50% contained by 1:30 p.m. and its forward progress had stopped, the U.S. Forest Service said.
Firefighters were working overnight to mop up and monitor the smoldering remains from the blaze, according to the Forest Service.
The cause of the fire was under investigation.
Joseph.serna@latimes.com
For breaking California news, follow @JosephSerna on Twitter.
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UPDATES:
7:35 p.m.: This article was updated with officials downgrading the fires size to 44 acres.
1:30 p.m.: This article was updated to report new acreage and containment numbers.
9:35 a.m.: This article was updated to report new acreage and containment numbers.
8:25 a.m.: This article was updated with the fires new estimated size.
This article was originally published at 6:30 a.m.
An effort to help former inmates gain access to higher education is coming to Cal State Fullerton, the first initiative of its kind in Orange County.
Project Rebound, a program based out of San Francisco State University, provides mentoring and financial assistance to students who pursue advanced degrees after time behind bars. In addition to Fullerton, it is expanding its operations to CSU campuses in Bakersfield, Fresno, Los Angeles, Pomona, San Bernardino and San Diego.
Ninety-nine percent of folks who are incarcerated come back to the community, said Brady Heiner, director of Project Rebound at Fullerton. Its incumbent on us to welcome them and provide them with the tools they need to succeed.
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An estimated 40,000 to 50,000 people are released from the countys jails each year, said Meghan Medlin, board chairwoman for the Orange County Re-Entry Partnership. Even more return to the county from state prisons.
We have a high number of people who have criminal backgrounds, and we need to get them resources to help them get back on their feet, she said. We have programs in our community colleges, but to have one at a university, at that level, is exciting.
According to educators, formerly incarcerated individuals typically face significant barriers when seeking advanced degrees.
Some of them are procedural, some are social and cultural, and some are economic, said Heiner, an assistant professor of philosophy at Cal State Fullerton. What Project Rebound seeks to do is to build a pathway from prison to college to facilitate and assist folks in making that transition.
Romarilyn Ralston, program coordinator for Project Rebound at Cal State Fullerton, spent 23 years inside the California Institution for Women. She understands the difficulties firsthand, and says programs like Project Rebound are critical to students success.
Theres a lot of stress and anxiety that comes with adjusting to a college campus and sitting in a classroom with students who have a lot of social capital, private school education and supportive parents and who dont have the trauma that comes with an incarceration history, said Ralston, who earned a bachelors degree from Pitzer College in Claremont and a masters from Washington University in St. Louis.
For Ralston, higher education was not only critical to helping her secure meaningful employment, but also in shaping a new view on life.
I was able to see myself differently in the world, she said. I was no longer a felon. I was becoming a citizen with rights and responsibilities.
According to a 2014 report by the Rand Corp., inmates who participate in education programs are 43% less likely to return to prison. Lowering the recidivism rate through education is also cost-effective: The study found that every $1 investment in prison education saves about $5 on reincarceration costs.
Project Rebounds data reveal that only 3% of its students return to prison, compared with the statewide recidivism rate of 65%, one of the highest in the nation.
Cal State Fullertons Project Rebound will offer assistance to ex-inmates in a variety of ways.
Prospective students will receive help completing their applications and, if admitted, will receive customized mentoring and tutoring in their course of study, as well as personal support from the staff.
In addition, Project Rebound will supplement federal and state grants, so that full-time students at the university will pay only $2,000 per year, excluding housing, Heiner said.
His hope is to enroll 10 students at Cal State Fullerton in the program by the spring semester, and then ramp up to 15 in future terms.
Ralston also hopes that the expansion of Project Rebound throughout California will spark change in the public opinion.
Everyone should have access to quality education in America, and that includes the formerly incarcerated, she said. Its the right thing to do. If we want to combat mass incarceration and recidivism, and if we want to help families break the cycle of poverty and incarceration, then we need to invest in higher education for all.
caitlin.kandil@latimes.com
Kandil writes for Times Community News
Family and friends who gathered at Cal State Long Beach on Sunday grew emotional as they remembered the life of Nohemi Gonzalez, the only American killed in the Paris terror attacks last November.
A year had passed since the 23-year-olds death while studying abroad at the Strate School of Design in Paris. She was one of 130 people killed in the bombing and shooting rampage on Nov. 13, 2015.
I have no words for the big loss that I have in my life, her mother, Beatriz Gonzalez, said. She was my baby, my little girl.
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On Sunday, more than 50 people gathered at the Duncan Anderson Design Department gallery, where Nohemis work and photos of her were showcased.
Nohemi, who was studying industrial design, had worked as a teaching assistant and a shop technician in the Department of Design. In May, she received her bachelors degree posthumously.
Outside of the gallery, attendees wrote messages on a sign that read, Nohemi Gonzalez a year of remembrance. Nearby, inside a display case, was a photo of Nohemi beside a model Eiffel Tower.
Gonzalez grew teary-eyed as she spoke about her daughter.
I feel happy that many people remember her, and its really nice for the people in the community to know shes being remembered as a good student, an amazing person and a beautiful spirit, Gonzalez said.
France marked the first anniversary of the Paris terror attacks with commemoration ceremonies of their own and plaques bearing the names of the 130 victims, including Nohemis.
Niran Jayasiri, 30, had been studying abroad with Nohemi in Paris. The night of the attacks, he had been out with her and other friends at a bistro.
The group had taken their drinks outside, and it was there that Jayasiri heard what he first thought were firecrackers. Then, he saw the gunman and he ran. It wasnt until later that he would learn Nohemi had died.
Jayasiri described Nohemi as someone who would help everyone without hesitation. She took care of others and was a happy person, he said.
When you have somebody like that in your group of friends and you suddenly dont see them anymore, you notice it really well, he said. Its not an easy thing to cope with.
As he looked around at the friends who had gathered Sunday, Jayasiri felt mixed emotions.
In a way, Im glad a lot of people showed up to pay respect to her. But, at least for me, when I see my friends, everything comes back. All the feelings that I had when the incident actually happened all come rushing back, he said. We were a group of people that were tightly knit. Not seeing her in the group is difficult.
After family members shared their memories of Nohemi, whom they affectionately called Mimi, attendees went outside, where a Chinese pistachio tree had been planted in her memory.
What we love about this tree is, first of all, its unique. Theres no other tree quite like it around the area, said Martin Herman, chair of the department. It also turns a brilliant red around this time, which is Nohemis favorite color, and we very much like the idea of there being a transformation around this very special date, to remind us of her and of her life, her colorful spirit.
Eventually, the department will design a plaque and add a bench as well, Herman said.
Gonzalez shoveled up the first scoop of dirt, dropping it into the hole around the tree. One by one, faculty, students and family stepped forward to fill the hole.
We have this tree now to remember all the legacy, effort and goodness and everything that she gave us, Gonzalez said. One day, Gonzalez said, she might sprinkle some of her daughters ashes at the tree.
If I put a little bit of Mimi right here, then its like shes still here in this beautiful place, Gonzalez said.
brittny.mejia@latimes.com
Twitter: @brittny_mejia
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President Obama said Monday that the historic accord to curb Irans ability to develop nuclear weapons the most important arms control agreement in decades is working, and he expressed hope that Donald Trump will keep it intact.
My suspicion is that when the president-elect comes into office he will look at the facts, Obama said at a news conference. Abandoning the deal would remove obstructions that blocked Irans nuclear capabilities and could force the United States to sanction European allies that continued to honor the accord.
When you are not responsible for it, you can call it a terrible deal, Obama said. When you are responsible you are more likely to look at the facts.
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The question remains whether the deal, ratified by six world powers and implemented under a United Nations Security Council resolution, will survive under a Trump administration.
As a candidate, Trump targeted the Iran deal with special scorn but wavered on his intentions. He vowed at times to tear it up and at other times indicated he would negotiate stiffer concessions from Iran.
In speeches, he vastly inflated Irans financial gains from the agreement, suggesting Tehran benefited unfairly. And he complained that it only limited Irans nuclear weapons program, not its ballistic missiles or other issues of concern to U.S. policymakers.
But the United States enforces separate sanctions related to Irans ballistic missiles, its support for foreign terrorist groups and human rights abuses. The Treasury Department twice added sanctions to Iranian companies and individuals this year after the nuclear deal went into effect.
We have seen that this agreement has done what we said it was going to do, which is limit Iran from obtaining a nuclear [weapon], said Mark Toner, the State Department spokesman. It wasnt focused on changing Irans behavior at large. It was focused on preventing it from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
Trumps advisors make clear that revisiting the agreement is a priority for Trump even if the plan ahead is still a work in progress.
Ripping up is maybe a too strong a word. Hes gonna take that agreement, its been done before in international context, and then review it. Walid Phares, Trump foreign policy advisor
Ripping up is maybe a too strong a word. Hes gonna take that agreement, its been done before in international context, and then review it, Walid Phares, a Trump foreign policy advisor, told BBC radio. He will take the agreement, review it, send it to Congress, demand from Iranians to restore a few issues or change a few issues. And there will be a discussion. It could be a tense discussion.
Another advisor, R. James Woolsey Jr., who headed the CIA from 1993 to 1995 under President Clinton, was more hawkish. Speaking on CNN, he called the deal the worst single international agreement the United States has ever signed.
Woolsey said the deal was neither implementable nor verifiable.
It is truly rotten, he said.
Under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, as the deal is formally known, Iran has met its commitments to curtail access to nuclear fuel and technology and is submitting to verification systems set up to monitor its compliance, according to the U.N. nuclear watchdog agency.
U.S. officials and most arms control experts say Washington would be isolated if it withdraws from the deal.
It could put the United States in violation of the Security Council resolution that it endorsed, kill any chance of another diplomatic deal with Iran and hurt U.S. credibility with the five other major powers who negotiated it: England, France, China, Russia and Germany.
Even Israel, which fiercely opposed concessions to the Islamic Republic during the negotiations, has accepted that the deal is working and that Iran no longer poses an imminent nuclear threat.
Worse, according to arms control experts, it could give Iran a free hand to cast off its commitments and give the U.S. few options short of military force to respond.
Iran would be free to resume its nuclear program, and it would be difficult to impose new sanctions, said Gary Samore, a former arms control advisor to Obama who now is research director at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard.
The Trump administration would end up with furious allies and the resumption of Irans nuclear program, agreed Cliff Kupchan, chairman of the Washington-based Eurasia Group, a risk-assessment firm. This has gone from a deal that was working to one that is at risk.
The Obama administration argues that the deal effectively closed off all the pathways that Iran could pursue to obtain a bomb: by enriching uranium, producing plutonium or buying technology from other countries.
Under the terms of the pact, Iran removed the core of a heavy water reactor under construction at Arak that ultimately could have produced plutonium, then filled the reactor with cement.
It dismantled or mothballed thousands of fast-spinning centrifuges, which are used to enrich uranium to bomb grade, and it shipped nearly its entire stockpile of enriched uranium to Russia for reprocessing.
U.S. officials said those steps extended Irans so-called breakout time the period it would need to build a bomb from two to three months to more than a year. Thats enough time for the world to respond should Tehran decide to rush for a bomb, advocates say.
In exchange, key financial and trade sanctions were lifted from Iran, giving it access to the international financial system and global markets for the first time in years, as well as more than $50 billion in assets frozen abroad since the countrys 1979 revolution.
There are several ways a Trump administration could kill or undermine the deal.
The most likely strategy is to make new demands, such as insisting on more intrusive inspections on Iranian facilities or bases, or for a longer period before Iran can again enrich uranium.
Iran would likely refuse putting the onus on Washington to either abrogate the treaty or continue to abide by it in some form.
Trump also could decline to renew sanctions relief. As the deal is crafted, the suspension of various U.S. sanctions has to be renewed by the president every 120 or 180 days. But other countries, which have largely lifted sanctions, are unlikely to reimpose theirs.
The agreement was harshly criticized by many Republicans, who said Iran could not be trusted and doubted that its nuclear program was truly crippled. A GOP-led effort to block the accord in Congress failed last year amid Republican infighting and a Democratic filibuster.
When Trump met with Obama for the first time at the White House on Thursday, the president spent a good amount of time explaining the complexity of the deal, administration officials say.
We obviously believe in the importance of the Iran deal, which had significantly rolled back Irans nuclear program and averts yet another conflict in the Middle East, said Ben Rhodes, Obamas deputy national security advisor.
Administration officials will run through the tape with Trumps advisors, he added. And then the new team will make their own determinations. And we respect that every administration will make its own judgment.
For more on international affairs, follow @TracyKWilkinson on Twitter.
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Immigrants, their advocates and others opposing a Donald Trump presidency continued to protest Sunday, speaking out against the president-elects support of deportation and other measures.
Organizers in Manhattan carried signs in English and Spanish saying things like, Hate wont make us great, and chanted, We are here to stay.
More than 1,000 people joined the march that started midafternoon and extended into the evening.
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It was the latest in days of demonstrations across the country. Protests were held Sunday in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Philadelphia and more cities.
Several hundred protesters marched around Philadelphias City Hall and then down Market Street to Independence Mall, carrying signs and chanting, Donald Trump has got to go! and This is what democracy looks like.
In Los Angeles, a few hundred people gathered outside CNNs L.A. headquarters, and in San Francisco, hundreds of people, including many families with children, marched from Golden Gate Park to Ocean Beach chanting, Love trumps hate! On Saturday, an estimated 8,000 people marched through downtown Los Angeles.
In Oregon, police said they arrested 71 people late Saturday and early Sunday during anti-Trump protests downtown.
The Portland Police Bureau said most protesters were cited for disorderly conduct and failing to obey an officer.
Mostly, the demonstrations were peaceful. However, in Portland, a man was shot and wounded Saturday morning during a confrontation. Police arrested two teenagers in the shooting.
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Breitbart News wants supporters to #DumpKelloggs after advertiser pulls out By David Ng Breitbart News senior editor-at-large Joel Pollak, left, and Chief Executive Larry Solov at the Breitbart offices in Los Angeles. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) The Breitbart News Network is seeing some of its advertisers head for the exit doors and is responding in typical Breitbart fashion: by going on the counteroffensive, labeling one of them as un-American and calling it a war on conservatism. Since Donald Trumps victory in the presidential election, Los Angeles-based Breitbart has experienced a backlash from some advertisers who say that the online site conflicts with their corporate values. Breitbart took a pro-Trump stance during the campaign, supporting the Republican candidates views on immigration and national security. The companys executive chairman, Steve Bannon, who is on a leave of absence, was Trumps campaign manager and has been named chief White House strategist. Although Bannon was quoted in Mother Jones as saying Breitbart is a platform for the alt-right the ultraconservative movement associated with white nationalism the news site has denied accusations that it engages in racist rhetoric. The company has stated that it isnt affiliated with the alt-right and that the brand of nationalism it espouses is political, not racial. Breitbart is fighting back at one of the advertisers breakfast cereal maker Kellogg Co. by launching a Twitter campaign, #DumpKelloggs, that encourages its readers to sign a petition and boycott the maker of such favorites as Froot Loops and Apple Jacks. Read More Facebook
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Supreme Court weighs rules for jailed immigrants in Trump era By David Savage The Supreme Court building in Washington. (Saul Loeb / AFP-Getty Images) Facing the likelihood of dramatically stepped-up deportations under a President Donald Trump, the Supreme Court justices sounded closely split Wednesday over whether the government can indefinitely jail immigrants with criminal convictions while they fight legal efforts to remove them from the country. Trump, who made illegal immigration one of the platforms of his presidential campaign, has promised to deport as many as 3 million immigrants once he takes office, and the Supreme Court case involving a Los Angeles immigrant could give his administration greater leverage. Read More Facebook
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Trump says he saved American jobs, but he hasnt shown how he can turn the victory into policy By Noah Bierman A Carrier Corp. plant in Indianapolis. (Darron Cummings / Associated Press) President-elect Donald Trumps newly announced agreement to save more than 1,000 jobs in Indiana gave him the kind of trophy he covets: a tangible victory that matches his campaign promise to serve as deal maker in chief. But its long-term value will depend on what Trump gave up to keep those factory jobs from going to Mexico and whether he is able to craft a successful fiscal policy that has a broader impact on the economy. Read More Facebook
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Lawmakers reach a compromise to help California soldiers ordered to repay enlistment bonuses By David S. Cloud House and Senate negotiators announced a compromise Tuesday that would permit the Pentagon to forgive debts owed by thousands of California National Guard soldiers who received improper bonuses during the height of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The agreement was included in a defense bill due to be voted on by the House on Friday and the Senate next week. It seeks to strike a balance between the Pentagons concerns about fraud in the bonus system and lawmakers attempts to resolve a scandal that has hurt thousands of military veterans and sparked a public furor. The compromise calls on the Pentagon to forgive the enlistment bonuses and student loans benefits unless the soldier who received the money knew or reasonably should have known that he or she was ineligible for it. The provision stops short of requiring the Pentagon to forgive debts allegedly owed by all California Guard soldiers as long as they fulfilled the terms of their enlistment contracts and did not commit fraud a far more sweeping waiver that members of the California delegation had proposed. Read More Facebook
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Pentagon says human errors led to mistaken bombing of Syrian-backed forces By W.J. Hennigan Smoke rises near the Syrian village of Hisha, about 25 miles from Islamic States de facto capital of Raqqah, after an airstrike by the American-led coalition on Nov. 9, 2016. (Delil Souleiman /AFP/Getty Images) A U.S. military investigation has found that unintentional human errors led to a coalition airstrike that mistakenly killed dozens of Syrian-backed troops this fall, but it did not recommend disciplining anyone for the deadly attack. The Sept. 17 air raid on a garrison in the eastern Syrian town of Dair Alzour is one of the worst coalition errors to emerge since the Obama administration began an air war against Islamic State militants in Iraq and Syria in mid-2014. The attack, which was in an area also frequented by Russian forces, led to sharp criticism from Moscow after it emerged that Russian attempts to use a communications hotline to stop the attack were not answered for nearly half an hour. Russias Defense Ministry has said the attack killed 62 Syrian troops, wounded 100 more and opened the way for an Islamic State offensive in the area. It also helped destroy an already fragile U.S.-Russian cease-fire. A four-page redacted summary of the investigation that was released Tuesday concluded that the botched bombing did not violate international laws of armed conflict. Read More Facebook
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U.N. slaps new sanctions on North Korea for recent nuclear test By Tracy Wilkinson Participants stand behind a military band in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Sept. 13 during a celebration rally after the countrys successful test of a nuclear warhead. (Kim Won-Jin / AFP/Getty Images) The United Nations has slapped additional sanctions on North Korea in an effort to cut its exports of raw materials as punishment for conducting another nuclear test. The U.N. Security Council on Wednesday unanimously approved a U.S.-drafted resolution aimed at cutting North Koreas exports of coal, copper, silver and other raw materials, which are its biggest legitimate sources of foreign revenue. The latest sanctions were issued in response to Pyongyangs fifth and largest nuclear test, which was conducted in September in violation of U.N. resolutions. U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Samantha Power estimated the new sanctions will cost North Korea about $800 million a year in lost export income. North Korea is determined to refine its nuclear and ballistic missile technology to pose an even more potent threat ... to international peace and security, Power said. But this resolution imposes unprecedented costs on the [Kim Jong Un] regime for defying this councils demands, she said. Previous international sanctions have had little apparent effect on decisions in Pyongyang, and its difficult to know whether the latest round will make a difference. In March, a set of sanctions described as the most severe in two decades was imposed. But North Korea has gotten around some of the restrictions thanks to complicity from China, its neighbor and longtime benefactor. Wednesdays measures included a 60% cut on North Koreas export of coal, its biggest income source, and bans on the export of copper, nickel, silver and zinc. The sanctions also banned North Koreas export of statues, a business that caters mostly to Africa, and blacklisted 11 people and 10 entities. Under the resolution, North Korea is also threatened with suspension of some U.N. privileges if it fails to comply. Facebook
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CIA director warns Trump it would be the height of folly to scrap the Iran deal By Brian Bennett In an unusual public warning, the head of the CIA said Wednesday it would be the height of folly and disastrous for President-elect Donald Trump to scrap the Iran nuclear deal. CIA Director John Brennan said in a TV interview that ripping up the historic accord could allow Iran to resume its nuclear program and set off an arms race in the Middle East by encouraging other countries to acquire their own nuclear weapons. I think it would be disastrous for the incoming Trump administration to renege on the deal with Iran, Brennan said in an unusually blunt interview with BBC. It could lead to a weapons program inside Iran that could lead other states in the region to embark on their own programs, so I think it would be height of folly if the next administration were to tear up that agreement, Brennan said. It is extremely rare for the CIA director to issue a public warning to an incoming administration, and it suggests deep concern inside the intelligence community about Trumps intentions. During the campaign, Trump variously promised to dismantle or to revise President Obamas signature foreign policy achievement, an international deal that cut off Irans ability to build or acquire nuclear weapons in exchange for easing of sanctions on its finances and oil industry. Rep. Mike Pompeo (R-Kan.), Trumps pick to replace Brennan as CIA director, also has been a vocal critic of the deal. I look forward to rolling back this disastrous deal with the worlds largest state sponsor of terrorism, Pompeo wrote Nov. 17 on Twitter. After meeting Trump at the White House after the election, Obama said they had discussed the Iran deal and that he hoped it would survive intact, noting that the United States would be acting alone if it sought to impose new sanctions. The five members of the United Nations Security Council plus Germany negotiated the deal in 2015, and the U.N. later voted to enforce it. Implementation began in January, and no evidence has emerged to indicate Iran is violating its side of the agreement. View Twitter post Obama administration officials want to brief Trump and his top advisors on classified details and assessments of the Iran deal, including monitoring systems put in place to verify Iranian compliance. So far, Trumps transition team has delayed receiving more than a handful of in-depth intelligence briefings. There are a lot of people out there who read the papers and listened to news broadcasts where the facts may be a bit you know off, Brennan told the BBC. I want to make sure the new team understands what the reality is. It ultimately will be up to them to decide how to carry out their responsibilities, Brennan said. Robert M. Gates, a former CIA chief and secretary of Defense, also called for preserving the nuclear deal. It would be a mistake to tear up the agreement at this point, Gates said in an interview on CBS This Morning. I think we would be the ones isolated, not the Iranians, because none of our partners who helped to negotiate that would walk away from it. But I think what the new president can do is push back against the Iranians. Facebook
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Rep. Nancy Pelosi elected by House Democrats for another term as minority leader By Lisa Mascaro House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (Andrew Harnik/Associated Press) House Democrats elected Rep. Nancy Pelosi for another term as minority leader after she fended off a rival who said the November election showed the party needs change at the top. The San Francisco Democrat has beaten back challengers before, but this years campaign from Ohio Democratic Rep. Tim Ryan focused attention on President-elect Donald Trumps success in attracting white, working class voters in Rust Belt states that had traditionally been part of the Democratic base. Pelosi responded by expanding her leadership team to include more seats at the table for younger members and those from states Trump won. The only woman to serve as House speaker, Pelosi has faced calls for her ouster ever since Democrats lost the House majority in 2010. First elected to leadership in 2002, the mother of five -- and grandmother -- has also endured questions about how much longer she will stay at the helm. The 76-year-old typically swats back such inquiries by noting the comparable ages of male colleagues in leadership roles elsewhere in the Capitol. Pelosi remains a fundraising powerhouse and despite interest by other Democrats in taking a turn at leadership, few have been able to make the case to their peers that they could match her drive. But this year, Pelosi appeared to take her challenge seriously. She repeatedly worked to shore up support from liberals and minorities who make up the bulk of the Democratic caucus. She also pointed to the gains Democrats have made under her watch -- they picked up six seats in November -- and warned that losses could have been worse. Democratic Rep. Adam B. Schiff of Burbank, in nominating Pelosi during a closed-door meeting Wednesday, said, We need the very best to lead us.... No one is a better tactician than Nancy Pelosi. Facebook
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Trump pledged to protect Medicare. His choice for health secretary has other ideas By Noah Bierman Rep. Tom Price (R-Ga.), President-elect Donald Trumps choice for Health and Human Services secretary. (Carolyn Kaster / Associated Press)) President-elect Donald Trump reassured voters during his insurgent political campaign that he would protect Medicare, Social Security and other popular federal assistance programs. But in tapping Rep. Tom Price (R-Ga.) to be his Health and Human Services secretary, he has elevated one of the most aggressive proponents of dramatically overhauling the government safety net for seniors and low-income Americans, a long-held conservative goal. Read More Facebook
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Trump says he will leave his business in total to fully focus on running the country By Jim Puzzanghera (Mandel Ngan / AFP/Getty Images) President-elect Donald Trump tweeted Wednesday morning that he would leave his business operations in total to fully focus on running the country. Trumps vast interests in real estate and other ventures have raised unprecedented concerns about the potential for conflict of interest, both at home and internationally. In one of a series of tweets, Trump said he would be leaving my great business in total. Legal documents are being crafted which take me completely out of business operations. The Presidency is a far more important task! he said. However, Trump made no mention that would be giving up ownership of the Trump Organization, which includes hotels, golf resorts and other properties and many licensing deals that span the globe. Neither did he specify whether his separation from his businesses would be permanent. To avoid conflicts or the perception that his presidency would benefit his financial empire, government ethics lawyers and watchdog groups have urged him to sell off his businesses and put the assets in a blind trust to be managed by an independent third party. Trump said last week that he has been turning over operations of his businesses to three of his children, who already have senior positions at the Trump Organization. But some critics have said turning over control to his children may not be enough to alleviate such concerns, since several of his adult children remain active in planning his transition. What he does not seem to realize, or does not want to admit, is that the conflicts arise from his ownership of the Trump Organization, said Noah Bookbinder, executive director of the Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, in reacting to Trumps announcement Wednesday. He will continue to know what his business interests are and to benefit from them whether or not he is involved in the day-to-day management, so the conflicts remain unchanged. Federal conflict-of-interest rules for government employees and members of Congress dont apply to the president. Trump said in an interview with the New York Times last week that the president cant have a conflict of interest In theory, I can be president of the United States and run my business 100%. He said then that it would be very hard to sell off his businesses because they are mostly real estate, but also noted that he would like to try and formalize something in terms of an arrangement that would distance his businesses from his work as president. On Wednesday, he tweeted that While I am not mandated to do this under the law, I feel it is visually important, as President, to in no way have a conflict of interest with my various businesses. Trump said he would detail the changes at a New York news conference with his children on Dec. 15. I will be holding a major news conference in New York City with my children on December 15 to discuss the fact that I will be leaving my ... Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 30, 2016 great business in total in order to fully focus on running the country in order to MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! While I am not mandated to .... Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 30, 2016 do this under the law, I feel it is visually important, as President, to in no way have a conflict of interest with my various businesses.. Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 30, 2016 Facebook
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Trump names billionaire investor Wilbur Ross as Commerce secretary By Jim Puzzanghera President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect Mike Pence greet investor Wilbur Ross, left, in New Jersey on Sunday. ( (Carolyn Kaster / Associated Press)) President-elect Donald Trump has chosen billionaire financier Wilbur Ross, known as the king of bankruptcy for his investments in distressed properties, to serve as Commerce secretary, according to a person familiar with the decision. If confirmed, Ross would become the Trump administrations chief liaison with the business community and a leading advocate for U.S. trade abroad. Ross, 80, who was a senior policy advisor to Trumps campaign, is worth $2.9 billion, according to Forbes magazine. Like Trump, Ross has been critical of U.S. trade deals. He sharply criticized trade negotiators and called for the U.S. to withdraw from the yet-to-be-ratified Trans-Pacific Partnership and to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement. Trump has pledged to do both upon taking office. Read More Facebook
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Trump taps Wall Street executive and Hollywood producer Steven Mnuchin for Treasury secretary By Jim Puzzanghera Steven Mnuchin at Trump Tower in New York this month. (Eduardo Munoz Alvarez / AFP/Getty Images) President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Steven Mnuchin, a wealthy Wall Street executive and Hollywood movie producer who served as his campaign finance chairman, to be the next Treasury secretary, according to a person familiar with the decision. Mnuchins deep roots on Wall Street fit the mold of past Treasury secretaries but contrast with the populist stance that Trump took during his campaign. Mnuchins net worth is unclear, but he could be the second billionaire member of Trumps Cabinet, after Betsy DeVos, who is Trumps pick for Education secretary. The third is expected to be financier Wilbur Ross, who has been selected as Commerce secretary. Mnuchins selection which was first reported Tuesday by the New York Times drew ire from Democratic and liberal groups, which have accused him of profiting from the financial crisis after buying the failed IndyMac Bank in 2009. Read More Facebook
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Noam Chomsky, Junot Diaz and nearly 400 MIT faculty oppose Trump picks in open letter By Colleen Shalby President-elect Donald Trump. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press) Nearly 400 MIT faculty members, including professor emeritus Noam Chomsky, writer Junot Diaz and four Nobel Prize winners, signed an open letter criticizing President-elect Donald Trumps Cabinet picks. The President-elect has appointed individuals to positions of power who have endorsed racism, misogyny and religious bigotry, and denied the widespread scientific consensus on climate change. Regardless of our political views, these endorsements violate principles at the core of MITs mission. At this time, it is important to reaffirm the values we hold in common. The letter also denounces the controversial rhetoric often associated with Trumps campaign and impending presidency. For any member of our community who may feel fear or oppression, our doors are open and we are ready to help, it states. MIT boasts a student body represented by 120 foreign countries, all 50 U.S. states and three U.S. territories. While campaigning, Trump lauded his late uncle, John, who was a professor at MIT for nearly 50 years. Shortly after Trump announced his candidacy, he spoke about him to CNN. I had an uncle who went to MIT who is a top professor. Dr. John Trump. A genius. Its in my blood. Im smart. Great marks. Like really smart, Trump said. A handful of faculty members who signed the statement overlapped in time with John Trump. At least one, physics professor Robert Jaffe, said that he did not know the uncle, but hopes that his nephews administration will maintain a dedication to science. Facebook
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With no Cabinet to build, Hillary Clinton appears with Katy Perry By Chris Megerian Pop star Katy Perry was one of Hillary Clintons biggest celebrity boosters on the campaign trail, and on Tuesday night the former Democratic presidential nominee introduced the singer at a charity gala in New York. Perry has served as UNICEFs goodwill ambassador. Hilary Clinton surprise appearance just now to intro @katyperry #SnowflakeBall #UnicefSnowflake pic.twitter.com/3wh2Zc2BwG David Ushery (@DavidUshery4NY) November 30, 2016 Facebook
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Jill Stein pays fee to green-light Wisconsin recount By Michael A. Memoli The recount is officially on. The Wisconsin Elections Commission said Tuesday that Green Party nominee Jill Stein has paid the nearly $3.5 million estimated cost to set into motion a statewide retabulation of the presidential vote. Stein had asked for the recount after claiming that evidence of foreign interference existed. She is also seeking recounts in Michigan and Pennsylvania; together, the three states carry enough electoral votes to flip the election from President-elect Donald Trump to Democrat Hillary Clinton, but such an outcome is all but impossible. The Wisconsin recount, which starts Thursday, is likely to cost Stein slightly more, the commission said, blaming an earlier error in adding up cost estimates from the 72 county clerks who will oversee the ballot review. Stein will be charged whatever additional costs are incurred after the recount is concluded. Officials on Monday said that most counties will complete their recount in a week but that more populous counties will face a challenge in meeting the deadline to certify results. The state aims to finish by Dec. 12, as state law gives the recount petitioner five days after the new tally is finished for further legal challenges. Presidential electors in 50 states and the District of Columbia will meet Dec. 19 to formally cast the votes that will elect Trump as the next president. Facebook
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Repeal and replace Obamacare? It wont happen on Trumps first day, GOP leader says By Lisa Mascaro House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy. (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press) House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield) cast doubt on whether the Republican-led Congress would be ready to repeal Obamacare by inauguration day, as some in President-elect Donald Trumps transition team have suggested could happen in a special session. But McCarthy said Republicans would try to start as soon as possible on what he acknowledged would be a complicated two-step process to repeal and replace Obamacare that will consume much of 2017 and beyond. Their plan involves retroactively passing a fiscal 2017 budget in the early weeks of Trumps term. Such a maneuver would give Republicans the ability to unwind President Obamas signature domestic program with a simple majority vote, without facing a Democratic filibuster. Replacing the Affordable Care Act would come later, and likely extend into fiscal 2018. Once its repealed you will have hopefully fewer people playing politics and everybody coming to the table to find the best policy, McCarthy told reporters. I just want to make sure we get it right. McCarthy on Tuesday welcomed reports that Trump intends to nominate House Budget Committee Chairman Tom Price (R-Ga.) to lead the Health and Human Services Department as Congress focuses on getting rid of Obamacare. Democrats, though, suggested that Price, a medical doctor who has championed House Speaker Paul D. Ryans plans to overhaul Medicare, will face so much opposition in the Senate that he may not be confirmed. Try it, said Sen. Charles E. Schumer of New York, the incoming Democratic minority leader. Privatization of Medicare goes way beyond where most Americans are. For years, Republicans have promised to end Obamacare, and with Trump in the White House they will have their best opportunity to do so. But McCarthy cautioned that repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act will be more complicated than simply sending a bill to the White House for the presidents signature. Instead, Congress will need to insert special repeal instructions as part of the wonky budget reconciliation process. And that will take time, he said. McCarthy said that replacing Obamacare will be even tougher than repealing it. Even though Republicans have promised their own healthcare law, they have never been able to produce an agreed-upon alternative. To gather ideas, McCarthy said he would solicit advice from governors and state insurance commissioners. Hell be sending a letter to the states later this week. Since Congress did not pass a 2017 budget for the fiscal year that began Oct. 1, they hope to retroactively approve one in the weeks ahead so they can include the first part of the special instructions needed to repeal the program. But he doubted that would be completed by the time Trump takes office. I dont think you can do it before [Jan.] 20th, he said. Theres only so many legislative days. The finish the job, lawmakers will use the reconciliation process for the fiscal 2018 budget, which is due by spring. McCarthy predicted Congress would still need to pass additional legislation, which cannot be completed through the reconciliation process, in order to ensure a smooth transition. Facebook
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Obama will skip Fidel Castros funeral but is sending an informal delegation By Christi Parsons The Cuban flag hangs at half-staff in front of a picture of Fidel Castro on the facade of the Cuban national library in Havana. (Ronaldo Schemidt / AFP/Getty Images) President Obama is not going to the memorial service for former Cuban dictator Fidel Castro on Tuesday but instead is sending a pair of key representatives to pay their respects, an informal appearance that reflects the delicate diplomacy between the White House and the leadership in Havana. Obama is sending Jeffrey DeLaurentis, the top U.S. diplomat in Cuba, along with deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes, but the two men are not being dispatched as part of a formal delegation, White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest said Tuesday. DeLaurentis and Rhodes played key roles in reopening U.S. ties to the communist island nation in late 2014, ending five decades of a Cold War-era freeze in relations. The policy has been celebrated for opening the possibility of expanded trade with and travel to Cuba, while critics attacked Obama for engaging with President Raul Castro without extracting concessions on human rights. His brother Fidel held power through firing squads, false imprisonment and harsh treatment of dissidents. President-elect Donald Trump was one of those critics, saying after Fidel Castros death that if Cuba isnt willing to make a better deal for the Cuban people and the U.S. as a whole, I will terminate the deal. After Castro died Friday, the White House released an oblique statement noting that his death filled Cubans with powerful emotions, recalling the countless ways in which Fidel Castro altered the course of individual lives, families, and of the Cuban nation. History will record and judge the enormous impact of this singular figure on the people and world around him. Facebook
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Donald Trump to pick Elaine Chao, a well-connected establishment figure, as Transportation secretary By Noah Bierman President-elect Donald Trump plans to name Elaine Chao a former Labor secretary married to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) as his Transportation secretary, according to House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield). Chaos establishment ties conflict with Trumps promise to drain the swamp in Washington and promote outsiders to lead his government. But Chaos connections could be an asset in Trumps plan to promote a major infrastructure proposal that could face resistance from within his party. Trump has decried the state of the nations airports, bridges and roads and promised to make their revitalization a major part of his jobs program aimed at helping working-class Americans whose votes helped propel him to victory. Chao, who served as Labor secretary through the entire George W. Bush administration, could play a central role in negotiating an infrastructure spending bill while her husband leads the Senate. Trumps spokesman Jason Miller did not confirm the pick on a conference call with reporters but said that Trump had taken people whove been successful in all different walks of life including business, government, and military to fill a Cabinet that Miller called a true dream team. The Taiwan-born Chao also exemplifies the type of immigrant success story that became the subject of debate during Trumps campaign, which promised to crack down on illegal immigration and labeled many of those entering the country illegally from Mexico as criminals, drug dealers and rapists. Chao is one of four sisters who attended Harvard Business School. Her family donated $40 million to the institution in 2012. Facebook
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U.S. economy grew 3.2% in third quarter, the best in two years By Jim Puzzanghera The U.S. economy grew faster in the third quarter than initially estimated, expanding at its strongest pace in two years in a rebound from a weak first half of 2016. Total economic output, also known as gross domestic product, expanded at a 3.2% annual pace from July through September, the Commerce Department said Tuesday. The figure was up from an initial estimate of 2.9% and the best performance since the economy expanded at a 5% annual rate in the third quarter of 2014. Read More Facebook
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Q&A: What you need to know about the Wisconsin recount By Michael A. Memoli This is certainly not Bush vs. Gore, a Wisconsin elections official said Monday. Well, what is it? The state is initiating the first significant candidate-driven recount in a presidential election since the 2000 ordeal in Florida between then-Vice President Al Gore and eventual President George W. Bush. This time, though, Donald Trump is certain to remain president-elect after Wisconsins nearly 3 million ballots are re-tabulated. But the fight here and potentially in other states has given third-party candidates new rationale for seeking public attention for their causes, and it has given Trump fresh ammunition to trash his opponents as well as, bafflingly, the political process in which he just secured the presidency. Here is a look at the issues involved in the Badger State and elsewhere as the seemingly unending 2016 presidential election seeps into overtime. Read More Facebook
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By tweet and petition, Donald Trump and the left cast doubt on credibility of election By Noah Bierman (Evan Vucci / Associated Press) Rather than celebrating his victory, Donald Trump is amplifying far-right conspiracies to undermine the credibility of an election he won. At the same time, he is finding some common cause in the quixotic effort by the fringe left to prevent him from reaching the White House. The chances of changing the election result with selective ballot recounts, as some on the left hope, or finding widespread voter fraud as alleged by Trump are next to nil. Yet a combination of self-interest and a desire for misdirection have propelled factions of both parties to debate the results of an election already decisively settled. Trumps motives are often hard to pinpoint. But by pushing the myth that millions of ballots were cast illegally for his opponent, as he has done on Twitter in recent days, he may be building the case to claim a larger mandate for his victory despite the fact that Hillary Clinton is leading the popular vote by more than 2 million votes. The issue also distracts attention from mounting questions about the financial conflicts of interest he is likely to have in the White House, given that he plans to allow his children to run his international real estate and branding business while he serves as president. Finally, Trumps rhetoric may also sow the seeds of future efforts to propose more restrictive voting rules championed by some of his top advisors. Read More Facebook
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Democrats look to make some deals with Trump and divide the GOP in the bargain By Lisa Mascaro Republicans became known as the party of no during the Obama years because of their frequent efforts to block the presidents initiatives. As congressional Democrats prepare to deal with a Republican White House, they appear ready to take the opposite approach, effectively challenging President-elect Donald Trump by finding opportunities to say yes. The goal is to strategically engage with the White House on common objectives and at the same time try to drive a political wedge between Trump and those Republicans anxious about his costlier ideas, such as rebuilding infrastructure, aiding blue-collar workers and expanding paid family leave, a pet project of daughter Ivanka Trump. Read More Facebook
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Trump to name a harsh critic of Obamacare as his pick for Health secretary By Noam N. Levey (Drew Angerer / Getty Images) President-elect Donald Trump plans to select House Budget Committee Chairman Tom Price (R-Ga.) to be his Health and Human Services secretary, according to a person familiar with the decision. In picking Price, Trump is tapping an arch-conservative lawmaker and leading critic of the Affordable Care Act to lead his push to roll back President Obamas signature health law. Price, a six-term congressman from suburban Atlanta, has never held an executive position comparable to leading the federal Department of Health and Human Services, a behemoth that includes the Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institutes of Health and the agency overseeing Medicare and Medicaid. Three of the four previous Health and Human Services secretaries were former governors. Price, an orthopedic surgeon, would be the first physician to serve as the departments secretary since Dr. Louis Sullivan, who held the post from 1989 to 1993 under President George H.W. Bush. He would also be among the most politically conservative Health and Human Services secretaries in history. And as a member of House leadership, he would bring to the Trump administration a revolutionary governing agenda closely aligned with Republicans on Capitol Hill. Read More Facebook
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Trump says he won the electoral college in a landslide, but he ranked near the all-time bottom By Cathleen Decker In addition to winning the Electoral College in a landslide, I won the popular vote if you deduct the millions of people who voted illegally Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 27, 2016 President-elect Donald Trumps tweet that he would have won the popular vote this month but for millions of illegal voters was not based on fact. There is no proof backing up his statement, and voting researchers uniformly dismissed it as false. Also problematic was his second claim in the same tweet, that his victory was one of the rare landslides in American political history. A study of electoral vote results by John J. Pitney, an author and professor of government at Claremont McKenna College, shows that Trump resides on the lower end of the electoral vote scale. He won 56.97% of the electoral votes up for grabs by virtue of his state wins. That places him 46th out of the 58 elections since George Washingtons era, Pitney found. In 38 elections, the winner exceeded 60% of the vote, a lopsided verdict by voters. Clear landslides were won most recently by Ronald Reagan in both of his elections: In 1984, he won 97.58% of electoral votes, and in 1980 he won 90.89%. President Obama won nearly 68% of the vote in 2008 and just under 62% in 2012. Faring worse than Trump among modern presidents was George W. Bush, who eked past Al Gore in 2000 with 50.37% of the vote, after a protracted squabble over the Florida results that ended in a U.S. Supreme Court verdict favoring Bush. Facebook
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Trump says Cuba has to act or hell end the diplomatic thaw, but its not that simple By Tracy Wilkinson In his latest comment on Cuba since the death of revolutionary leader Fidel Castro, President-elect Donald Trump said Monday he would end Washingtons diplomatic thaw with the island unless Cuba makes a better deal. If Cuba is unwilling to make a better deal for the Cuban people, the Cuban/American people and the U.S. as a whole, I will terminate deal, Trump tweeted. President Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro renewed diplomatic ties in 2014 after a half-century of Cold War hostility. Since then, through a series of executive orders, Obama has eased restrictions on Americans traveling to Cuba and U.S. firms doing business there. Castro, at the same time, has made it easier for Cubans to travel and to engage in limited private enterprise. However, Castro has not enacted significant political reforms, and the death Friday of his brother, former president and leader of the revolution Fidel, at age 90, is not likely to usher in quick change. It was not clear what Trump meant by a better deal. An email seeking clarification from his transition team was not answered. Previously, however, Trump has spoken of the release of political prisoners and more open space for free expression of opinions and dissent. These are the same elements the Obama administration has been demanding, while choosing not to delay economic progress while awaiting political change. From a legal standpoint, Trump could easily reverse Obamas executive orders with little more than a signature. Politically, however, renewed estrangement would be more complicated and would isolate the U.S. as the only country in the world that does not recognize the Communist-led government in Havana. Its not as simple as one Tweet might make it seem --@PressSec Josh Earnest, on whether @realdonaldtrump might undo @POTUS Cuba policy Christi Parsons (@cparsons) November 28, 2016 Trump and his top aides have sent conflicting signals over his likely Cuba policy. On Saturday, his staff put out a statement saying a Trump administration would do all it can to help Cubans achieve prosperity and liberty. But it did not mention reversing Obamas actions expanding ties. While Cuba remains a totalitarian island, Trump said, it is my hope that today marks a move away from the horrors endured for too long, and toward a future in which the wonderful Cuban people finally live in the freedom they so richly deserve. Kellyanne Conway, a top advisor, told NBCs Meet the Press on Sunday that nothing is definite when it comes to Cuba. But Trumps soon-to-be White House chief of staff, Reince Priebus, said that Trump would be looking for some movement in the right direction to keep the Cuba opening on course. Conservative Republicans, like Sens. Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz, oppose detente with Cuba as long as any Castro continues to rule. But a growing number of Cuban Americans, as well as most Democrats and a substantial segment of the business community, want better ties and opportunities for economic exchange. Facebook
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The era of super-low interest rates might be ending. Whats in it for you? By Jim Puzzanghera Since President-elect Donald Trumps surprising election victory this month, financial markets have sent a forceful message that the era of super-low interest rates is coming to a close. Mortgage rates have shot up. Bond yields have jumped to their highest levels in a year. And the dollar has surged against other major currencies to values unseen in more than a decade. Those developments have been fueled by expectations of stronger economic growth and higher inflation from Trumps promises to cut business taxes, reduce regulations and increase defense and infrastructure spending. His plans triggered a post-election stock market rally and, combined with recent solid economic data, increased expectations that the Federal Reserve would nudge up its benchmark short-term rate again next month with more hikes to follow next year. Read More Facebook
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Trump seems ready to fight the world on climate change but hes likely to meet resistance By Evan Halper Coal trucks leave a power plant operated by PacifiCorp outside Huntington, Utah. ( (George Frey / Getty Images)) Donald Trump is branded with all manner of unflattering labels, but one that hasnt seemed to much bother him is climate pariah. The president-elect is unabashed in his disdain for Americas global warming policy. He has placed a staunch climate-change doubter and antagonist of mainstream science in charge of reshaping or as Trump has suggested, dismantling the Environmental Protection Agency. He has talked frequently about reneging on the historic Paris global climate treaty the U.S. took a lead in drafting. And he has said he wants every federal green-energy program eliminated. Environmentalists take little comfort in Trumps recent comments that he accepts there is some connectivity between human activity and climate change and that he has an open mind about it, as what hes said elsewhere and done so far suggests otherwise. And even those comments gave scientists cause for alarm. You can make a lot of cases for different views, Trump told the New York Times, casting doubt on the finding by more than 90% of climate scientists that emissions are accelerating global warming. Im not sure anybody is ever going to really know. Read More Facebook
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Jared Kushner, the Trump son-in-law whos the next presidents eyes and ears By Chris Megerian The election results were rolling in, and so were the phone calls for Donald Trump. But no matter who was on the other end of the line, the person handing the phone to the next president of the United States was the same. Jared was screening the calls, said Armstrong Williams, a political ally who described the scene in Trumps Manhattan skyscraper on election night. That would be Jared Kushner, Trumps son-in-law, and his election-night role provides a glimpse of the enormous influence he wields as Trump prepares to take office in January. As the husband of Ivanka Trump, the president-elects elder daughter, Kushner holds an unassailable position inside Trumps unruly ecosystem of advisors. Read More Facebook
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Trump falsely claims that millions voted illegally, costing him the popular vote By Matt Pearce Donald and Melania Trump cast their ballots on Nov. 8. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press) Donald Trump falsely claimed Sunday that he won the popular vote, alleging in a tweet without evidence that millions of people had illegally voted for his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton. In addition to winning the Electoral College in a landslide, I won the popular vote if you deduct the millions of people who voted illegally, Trump wrote, hours after he tweeted his opposition to a recount in Midwestern states initiated by the Green Party. In addition to winning the Electoral College in a landslide, I won the popular vote if you deduct the millions of people who voted illegally Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 27, 2016 Election experts, who say election fraud is rare, immediately denounced Trumps claim. Theres been no evidence produced of millions or thousands or even hundreds of noncitizens voting for president in 2016, tweeted Rick Hasen, a professor of law and politics who writes for the Election Law Blog. The source of Trumps claim appears to be a widely shared Nov. 14 article on the conspiracy site Infowars, which is famous for claiming the Sandy Hook mass shooting was a hoax. Politifact investigated the illegal votes claim and rated it false. Facebook
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Trump is warned that supporters will feel betrayed if he picks Mitt Romney as secretary of State By Don Lee A senior advisor to President-elect Donald Trump stepped up an extraordinary public effort Sunday to discredit Mitt Romney and thwart the chances that he would be picked as secretary of State. Kellyanne Conway warned on Sunday TV talk shows that Trumps supporters would feel betrayed if he picked the former governor of Massachusetts, a sharp critic of Trump during the campaign, for a senior Cabinet position. Conway, who was Trumps campaign manager and now is a top advisor to the incoming president, said she felt compelled to speak out on the matter because of the backlash from the grass roots. People feel betrayed to think that Gov. Romney, who went out of his way to question the character and the intellect and the integrity of Donald Trump, now our president-elect, would be given the most significant Cabinet post of all, Conway said on NBCs Meet the Press. They feel a bit betrayed that you can get a Romney back in there after everything he did, she added. We dont even know if he voted for Donald Trump. Conway dodged questions about whether Trump supported the concerns she has been raising publicly about Romney, which began with a tweet she posted on Thanksgiving morning: Receiving deluge of social media & private comms re: Romney. Some Trump loyalists warn against Romney as sec of state. Conway made clear that she did not approve of Romney, who was the GOP presidential nominee in 2012, and didnt see him as especially qualified to act as Americas top diplomat. In the last four years, has he even been around the globe doing something on behalf of the United States of which were unaware? she asked on CNNs State of the Union. Did he go and intervene in Syria where they are having a massive humanitarian crisis? Meaning when I say intervene, like offered help. Has he been helpful to Mr. [Benjamin] Netanyahu? she said of the Israeli prime minister. Im all for party unity, but Im not sure that we have to pay for that with the secretary of State position, Conway said, although she quickly added that she would respect what Trump decides. During the campaign, Romney called Trump a phony and a fraud and said his policies would lead to economic ruin. In response, Trump mocked Romney as a failed candidate who had choked in the 2012 race. But a little more than a week ago, Trump met with Romney for about 90 minutes at a golf course in New Jersey to discuss the State Department post. Afterward, Trump said the meeting went great and Romney described the discussion as very thorough and in-depth. Trump is also considering Rudolph W. Giuliani, who was a fierce Trump loyalist during the campaign, for the job. The former mayor of New York has touted his experience traveling, consulting and speaking overseas since leaving office in 2001. But his extensive business deals abroad have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest if he gets the post instead of Romney. In criticizing Romney, Conway exposed what appears to be deep divisions in the Trump camp as it tries to assemble a team. It is highly unusual for a senior representative of an incoming president to be lobbying publicly against a candidate under consideration. Reince Priebus, the Republican National Committee chairman and Trumps choice to be chief of staff, on Sunday sought to downplay reports of internecine struggles in the transition. However, he acknowledged that picking Romney would represent a team of rivals concept. Trump wants to put the best possible people together for all Americans, Priebus told Fox News Sunday. The fact that hes actually even flirting with the idea of choosing a rival should tell the American people where hes at which is the best place for everyone in this country, he said. Conway also said Trump, who spent the Thanksgiving holiday weekend at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Fla., talked with President Obama by phone on Saturday for about 40 or 45 minutes. She wouldnt say what they talked about. I can tell you from President-elect Trumps side that he very much enjoys speaking with President Obama, talking about the serious issues that face this country and the world, Conway said on NBC. They get along nicely. They disagree on many things. Thats not going to change. Facebook
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Hillary Clinton campaign will participate in ballot recount in Wisconsin By Don Lee Hillary Clintons presidential campaign will participate in a ballot recount led by Green Party candidate Jill Stein in Wisconsin and perhaps two other battleground states that were crucial to Donald Trumps victory, a Clinton campaign lawyer said Saturday. In response, Trump called the recount request ridiculous and a scam designed to raise money for Steins political party. Read More Facebook
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Donald Trump names KT McFarland, Don McGahn to White House posts By Michael A. Memoli Don McGahn is named by President-elect Donald Trump as his White House counsel. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images) President-elect Donald Trump added to his West Wing roster Friday, naming KT McFarland as deputy national security adviser and Donald McGahn as his White House counsel. McFarland served in three separate Republican administrations, most notably as a spokeswoman for Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger under Ronald Reagan. In 2006, she sought to challenge Hillary Clinton for her U.S. Senate seat from New York but lost in the Republican primary. Most recently, she has been a regular contributor to Fox News on national security issues. She joins retired Gen. Michael Flynn, previously named as Trumps national security adviser. So proud & honored to have KT McFarland as part of our National Security team. She will help us #MAGA General Flynn (@GenFlynn) November 25, 2016 McGahn, who was general counsel for Trumps campaign and a former chair of the Federal Election Commission, is a partner at the powerhouse Washington law firm Jones Day. President Obama revealed at a recent news conference that he had advised Trump to hire a strong White House counsel to guide him and his team, who could provide clear guideposts and rules to help avoid ethical and conflict of interest concerns. Trump campaign officials said Friday that the president-elect, who is spending the holiday weekend at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, would make no additional high-level announcements until next week when he returns to New York. On Monday, he will meet with several more potential Cabinet and sub-Cabinet choices, including Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke, Pennsylvania Rep. Lou Barletta and Oklahoma Atty. Gen. Scott Pruitt. Facebook
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Ben Carson hints he may join Trump Cabinet as Housing secretary By Christi Parsons Former Republican presidential candidate Ben Carson speaks in Lakewood, Colo. on Oct. 29. (David Zalubowski / Associated Press) Ben Carson said Wednesday that an announcement is imminent about his role in improving the nations inner cities a broad hint that President-elect Donald Trump will name him secretary of Housing and Urban Development. After serious discussions with the Trump transition team, I feel that I can make a significant contribution, particularly to making our inner cities great for everyone, Carson said on Facebook. An announcement is forthcoming about my role in helping to make America great again. Carson, himself once a candidate for president, would be the first African American named to Trumps Cabinet. He was a mild critic of Trump during the campaign, but after dropping out of the race, he backed Trump and now serves on the president-elects transition team. Though Carsons professional background is as a neurosurgeon, he has spoken often of his experiences growing up in inner-city Detroit, with a mother who sometimes relied on food stamps and other assistance. Carson has said they moved into a tenement at one point but has never said whether he lived in public housing. Days ago, a senior advisor said Carson thought he lacked the background needed to manage a federal agency, and that he didnt think it was the best way for him to serve. Carson didnt want to take a position that could cripple the presidency, advisor Armstrong Williams told the Hill newspaper. HUD is responsible for administering low-income housing assistance, fair housing laws, housing development and aid to neighborhoods in distress. Carson indicated a change of heart Wednesday. We have much work to do in strengthening every aspect of our nation and ensuring that both our physical infrastructure and our spiritual infrastructure is solid, he wrote. In an interview with the New York Times on Tuesday, Trump suggested he isnt applying the usual standard of qualifications to his Cabinet picks. Were trying very hard to get the best people not necessarily people that will be the most politically correct people, because that hasnt been working, Trump said. So we have, really, experts in the field. Some are known and some are not known, but theyre known within their field as being the best. Thats very important to me. Facebook
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Trump picks Michigan school-choice advocate to be his Education secretary By Christi Parsons President-elect Donald Trump chose a Michigan charter school advocate and prominent Republican donor to serve as his secretary of Education, he said Wednesday, a decision that may hearten supporters of school choice but worry teacher unions and even some of Trumps core supporters. Trumps pick, Betsy DeVos, is a champion of charter schools and school vouchers that give families tax funds they can spend on private school if theyre not happy with their local public schools. DeVos, 58, served as chairwoman of the Michigan Republican Party, a credential that ties her to the party establishment reviled by many Trump supporters. She and her family are among the countrys largest donors to Republican and conservative Christian causes, including opposition to same-sex marriage. She has also backed the Common Core initiative to standardize educational requirements across the nation. Trump repeatedly called for its demise. In a tweet after her selection was announced, DeVos disavowed past support for Common Core, acknowledging that the topic was an issue among conservative activists. Many of you are asking about Common Core. To clarify, I am not a supporterperiod. Read my full stance, here: https://t.co/qB2nAXvX0B Betsy DeVos (@BetsyDeVos) November 23, 2016 In his statement announcing her as his choice, Trump called DeVos a brilliant and passionate education advocate. Under her leadership, we will reform the U.S. education system and break the bureaucracy that is holding our children back so that we can deliver world-class education and school choice to all families, Trump said in the statement. 1:46 a.m.: This post was updated with DeVos statement about the Common Core. Facebook
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Trump may have one more Cabinet-level pick coming before Thanksgiving By Christi Parsons (John Minchillo / Associated Press) President-elect Donald Trump may decide another Cabinet-level position Wednesday, aides said, after he announced South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley as his ambassador to the United Nations. Aides did not say which job Trump was considering making an announcement about. As he and his family settle in for Thanksgiving at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Trump is still spending significant time on one prominent position, secretary of State, a sign that a pick for it may not come before the holiday, one staffer on the presidential transition team said. In his search for a secretary of State, Trump has met with close advisor and former New York Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani and with Mitt Romney, the 2012 Republican nominee for president. Aides said Trump chose Haley for the U.N. post because she improved South Carolinas economy and took part in overseas trade and recruitment trips. The two have a natural chemistry, one staffer said, and their views jibe on how the U.S. should be represented on the world stage. Facebook
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Trump taps South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley for U.N. ambassador By Tracy Wilkinson South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley speaks at the Federalist Societys National Lawyers Convention in Washington on Nov. 18. (Cliff Owen / Associated Press) President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday picked South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, a rising star in the GOP, as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, an announcement that brings a measure of diversity to a transition that has been dominated by white, male figures. Haley, 44, and the daughter of Indian immigrants, is the first woman and first person of color to be picked for the new administration. Read More Facebook
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Dalai Lama: I have no worries about Trumps election By Associated Press (Ganbat Namjilsangarav / Associated Press) The Dalai Lama, the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader, said he has no worries about Donald Trumps election as U.S. president and expects the businessman will align his policies with global realities. Commenting at the conclusion of a four-day visit to Mongolia, the leader of Tibetan Buddhism said he looks forward to meeting Trump at some point after the Jan. 20 inauguration. The 81-year-old monk says he has always regarded the U.S. as the leading nation of the free world and wasnt concerned about remarks made by Trump during the election campaign. Some of those comments have been cited as offensive to Muslims, Latinos and other U.S. minority groups. China accuses the Dalai Lama of seeking to split Tibet from China and had demanded Mongolia scrap his visit. Facebook
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Trump asks Ben Carson to consider Housing secretary post By Chris Megerian Donald Trump asked Ben Carson to consider serving as secretary of Housing and Urban Development, an advisor to the former Republican presidential candidate said Tuesday. They discussed the potential job at a meeting in the morning and Carson is seriously considering it, said the advisor, Armstrong Williams. Its a role that plays to Dr. Carsons passions, he said. Asked what qualifications the retired neurosurgeon has for overseeing housing policy, Williams said: Dr. Carson has experience with everything. Youd be shocked at the depth of his experience. Williams had previously suggested that Carson didnt feel he had the experience to serve in Trumps Cabinet, but he said Tuesday that those comments were taken out of context. Housing secretary was one of a few options discussed Tuesday, Williams said. Carson always felt that hed be willing to serve in the administration if Trump felt that no one else could fill the position, he added. Facebook
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Texas judge blocks Obama administrations new overtime rule from taking effect By Michael A. Memoli Labor Secretary Thomas E. Perez. (Andrew Harnik / Associated Press) A Texas judge blocked President Obamas bid to expand overtime pay protections to millions of Americans on Tuesday, thwarting a key presidential priority just days before it was set to take effect. The Labor Department rule would have doubled the salary level at which hourly workers must be paid extra for overtime pay, from $23,660 to $47,476. Siding with business groups including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Texas District Judge Amos L. Mazzant III halted it. The rule, finalized in May, represented the first such change in more than a decade and was hailed at the time as the most consequential action the Obama administration could take for middle-class workers without congressional involvement. Plaintiffs had argued the Labor Department acted beyond its authority under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The administration said more than 4 million salaried workers stood to benefit from the change when it took effect Dec. 1. The rule was already in jeopardy after the election of Donald Trump. Just as the Obama administration made the change through its rule-making prerogatives, a Republican administration could undo it. Neither the White House nor the Labor Department had an immediate comment. Republican lawmakers and their allies in the business community, which were behind the legal challenge, celebrated the decision. The decision brings us a step closer to curbing regulations that have resulted in $80 billion in compliance costs and more than 25 million hours of paperwork, said Linda Kelly, senior vice president for the National Assn. of Manufacturers. The fights are not yet over and our work is just beginning. Facebook
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Heres why the electoral college (probably) wont stop Donald Trump from becoming president By Chris Megerian Some liberals who really, really, really dont want Donald Trump to be president are pinning their hopes on a long-shot effort to prevent him from officially winning the election. Understanding how their plan would work requires some background on the electoral college, which was established in the Constitution at a time when the founding fathers were wary of direct democracy. As widely known, presidents are not chosen based on the national popular vote if they were, Hillary Clinton would be the next commander in chief, given she is ahead by roughly 1.7 million votes. Each state is assigned a certain number of electoral votes based on population. Those votes are awarded to candidates based on the states popular vote. Trump won the presidential race with 290 electoral votes. (That total will reach 306 if Michigan is called for him, as expected.) The process doesnt end on election day. Each electoral vote is represented by an elector, an actual person who has to cast an official ballot for the president on Dec. 19. The electors are chosen through different processes state by state, and usually are selected by state political parties. With unrest over the result, there are efforts to persuade electors to be faithless, meaning they wouldnt back Trump even if he won their states. A Change.org petition calling the president-elect a danger to the Republic has almost 4.6 million supporters. What are the chances of this actually happening? Very slim, says George C. Edwards III, a Texas A&M political science professor who has written a book about the electoral college. From time to time, there are faithless electors, he said. Theyre few and far between. There were some electors who refused to vote for winning candidates in the 1800s, such as six who declined to support James Madison, but never enough to sway the outcome of the race. In the last century there have only been a handful of cases. There were some attempts to persuade electors to back Al Gore over George W. Bush during the disputed 2000 election, but they were unsuccessful. Facebook
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Can Trump put another Justice Scalia on the Supreme Court? By David Savage Judge William H. Pryor Jr. of the U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals moderates a panel discussion during the Federalist Societys National Lawyers Convention in Washington last week. ( (Cliff Owen / Associated Press)) President-elect Donald Trump will soon have the chance to make good on one of his most consequential campaign promises: fill the Supreme Court vacancy with a judge in the mold of conservative icon Justice Antonin Scalia, who died in February. Any Trump nominee is almost guaranteed to be a conservative jurist who is antiabortion and supports a strict interpretation of the 2nd Amendments right to bear arms. But what kind of conservative he selects will determine whether his nominee will be quickly confirmed or instead trigger a fierce fight in the closely divided Senate, potentially overshadowing the early months of Trumps presidency. If Trump opts for a Scalia-like justice, as he repeatedly said he would during the campaign, conservatives lawyers say the betting favorite is Judge William H. Pryor Jr. from the 11th Circuit Court in Atlanta, a former Alabama attorney general who called the Roe vs. Wade decision legalizing abortion the worst abomination in the history of constitutional law. The 54-year-old Pryor believes in Scalias approach of interpreting the Constitution by its original meaning one that has little room for gay rights, even womens rights. His nomination would electrify Trumps conservative base, but it would also set off a confirmation battle for which the outcome is not assured. Read More Facebook
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Michelle Rhee has some thoughts on Donald Trump By Joy Resmovits After meeting with president-elect Donald Trump Saturday, former Washington, D.C., schools Chancellor Michelle Rhee weighed in on people who have told her to avoid him. She also indicated that shes not likely to be named as Trumps secretary of Education. In light of the speculation about the Secretary of Education role, I wanted to clarify my position and what's best for America's students. pic.twitter.com/DXRZxdAZNX Michelle Rhee (@MichelleRhee) November 22, 2016 Facebook
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Trump veers off script on climate change, his potential conflicts of interest and even whether to prosecute Clinton By Evan Halper President-elect Donald Trump strayed far from the talking points of his campaign during his wide-ranging interview Tuesday with New York Times journalists. Trump suggested he does not necessarily need to sever ties to his businesses while president. He said he has an open mind to acting on climate change. And he even offered some praise for the Clinton Foundation. On the business ties, Trump was vague about when he will wind them down and how. He suggested he intends to transfer ownership to his kids, but then he also noted that the president is immune from federal conflict-of-interest laws. "In theory I could run my business perfectly and then run the country perfectly. There's never been a case like this,"he says of his tangles Maggie Haberman (@maggieNYT) November 22, 2016 Trump on his businesses/conflict q's: "The law's totally on my side, the president can't have a conflict of interest." Maggie Haberman (@maggieNYT) November 22, 2016 Trump, who once declared global warming a hoax perpetrated by the Chinese, backed off his skepticism of climate change. He said he believed there is a connection to human activity and warming but he is still undecided about how much of one. And he said he has an open mind to keeping in place the international climate agreement President Obama took a lead in negotiating, which Trump has been vowing for months to withdraw from. Tom Friedman asks if Trump will withdraw from climate change accords. Trump: Im looking at it very closely. I have an open mind to it." Michael M. Grynbaum (@grynbaum) November 22, 2016 Trump also addressed the public re-emergence of the white supremacist movement, and how his campaign has energized those groups. He said he disavows and condemns such groups, including the neo-Nazis who gathered in Washington over the weekend. But he defended his pick of chief strategist, Stephen K. Bannon, the Breitbart News executive who boasted that his outlet is the platform for the alt-right. Trump: Ive known Steve Bannon a long time. If i thought he was a racist, or alt-rightI wouldnt even think about hiring him." Michael M. Grynbaum (@grynbaum) November 22, 2016 Trump is asked about concerns from minority groups about Breitbart Newss coverage under Steve Bannon. His reply: pic.twitter.com/FBqCGwQpBr Michael M. Grynbaum (@grynbaum) November 22, 2016 When the conversation turned to Hillary Clinton, Trump said he will not press law enforcement agencies to prosecute her. And he even said people could argue the Clinton Foundation has done good work. Trump is pressed if he has definitively ruled out prosecuting Hillary Clinton. Its just not something that I feel very strongly about." Michael M. Grynbaum (@grynbaum) November 22, 2016 That last tweet was Trump making clear he doesn't favor prosecution. Added people could argue the Clinton Foundation has done "good work." Maggie Haberman (@maggieNYT) November 22, 2016 Read More Facebook
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Ben Carson made it clear that he was too inexperienced for a Cabinet job. Now Trump says hes considering Carson for one By Evan Halper I am seriously considering Dr. Ben Carson as the head of HUD. I've gotten to know him well--he's a greatly talented person who loves people! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 22, 2016 It was only a week ago that Ben Carson had put out word that he wasnt qualified to run a federal agency, and thus had no place in Donald Trumps Cabinet. Now Trump says Carson would be the perfect person to run a federal agency. Trump tweeted on Tuesday that he is seriously considering Carson to run the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Carsons qualifications? Hes a greatly talented person who loves people! Perhaps Carson was playing hard to get last week, when one of his top advisors, Armstrong Williams, told multiple news outlets that Carson wasnt a good fit for any of the Cabinet posts. Dr. Carson feels he has no government experience; hes never run a federal agency, Williams told the Hill. Trumps tweet that Carson was at the top of his list for the HUD job was unusual for another reason. Such trial balloons are typically floated anonymously, to gauge public reaction. If its hostile, the president-elect can scrap the plan and deny it was ever something he seriously contemplated. After Trumps advisors put the media on notice Tuesday morning that they would offer no details of what Trump will discuss at his meeting with Carson, Trump went ahead and shared them with millions of people himself. Facebook
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Donald Trump may have won the election, but hes still mad at the media By Evan Halper The President-elect does not care who knows how unforgiving or vain or distracted he is, David Remnick writes. https://t.co/6vOriXjf4E The New Yorker (@NewYorker) November 22, 2016 So much for burying the hatchet. Even victory has not diminished Donald Trumps resentment of the news media. His relations with the news outlets have gotten no better now that he has transitioned from confrontational candidate to confrontational president-elect. Trumps angry rant about the New York Times on Tuesday morning in which he briefly canceled a meeting with the outlet followed what was by several reports a stormy session the day before with major news networks. Television executives and journalists traveled to Trump Tower for the closed-door meeting anticipating a discussion about media access to the White House and perhaps a recalibration of the increasingly hostile relationship. Trump had something else in mind. He delivered an angry scold about the way he has been covered, complaining of unfairness even in the selection of the photos of him used during broadcasts, which, he griped, emphasized his double chin. He called the coverage outrageous and dishonest, according to a report in the New Yorker. Its unclear what Trumps intentions were. But if his goal was to chasten the media, he did not succeed. Some at the meeting described being offended and accused Trump of failing to understand the press 1st Amendment protection from government suppression. Facebook
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Aide says Trump does not want to pursue charges against Hillary Clinton By Del Quentin Wilber A top official of Donald Trumps presidential campaign on Tuesday reaffirmed signals sent by the president-elect that hes not interested in pursuing criminal charges against Hillary Clinton, despite his repeated campaign promises to prosecute the Democratic nominee over her handling of classified materials and involvement in the Clinton Foundation. Kellyanne Conway, Trumps former campaign manager, also told MSNBC that congressional Republicans should follow Trumps lead, suggesting they drop their own probes into Clinton. I think when the president-elect, whos also the head of your party, tells you before hes even inaugurated that he doesnt wish to pursue these charges, it sends a very strong message, tone, and content to the members, Conway said. Trump had promised his supporters that he would re-investigate whether Clinton broke laws while using a private email server as the nations secretary of State, even after the FBI concluded she had not. During a presidential debate, he even pledged to assign a special prosecutor to look into the matter. Despite his supporters strongly favored such an investigation -- they often erupted into chants of Lock her up! at his rallies -- Trump hinted after the election that he had changed his mind, telling 60 Minutes earlier this month that the Clintons were good people and he didnt want to hurt them. Conway said the former Democratic presidential candidate still has to face the fact that a majority of Americans dont find her to be honest or trustworthy, but she added, If Donald Trump can help her heal, then perhaps thats a good thing to do. FBI Director James B. Comey has said that Clinton was extremely careless in how she and her aides handled classified information on her private server while she served as secretary of State. But agents, he said, turned up no evidence they had intended to violate espionage laws. The Justice Department agreed with Comey and closed the inquiry. Its highly unusual for a president to tell an attorney general whether or not to investigate a potential criminal matter, especially one involving his political rival. Trumps apparent desire to drop the matter raises questions about the FBIs inquiry into the Clinton Foundation, which unlike the email probe has not been concluded. The attorney general would have some discretion whether to prosecute, said Carl Tobias, a law professor at the University of Richmond. Politically, however, its not feasible if the president really doesnt want it to happen. The FBI has not commented on the status of any investigations into the Clinton Foundation. FBI agents in New York were reportedly looking into the nonprofit and wanted permission to use more aggressive law enforcement tools to dig deeper into the organization. But they were blocked by prosecutors and top FBI officials who did not believe the investigators had developed evidence to justify such actions, according to law enforcement officials. Facebook
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One of Donald Trumps meetings might offer a clue for how he wants to replace Obamacare By Noam N. Levey Dr. James Jackson performs a physical on Matthew Shorter, 51, a Medicaid patient enrolled in the Healthy Indiana Plan, at the Heart City Health Center in Elkhart, Ind. (Zbigniew Bzdak / Chicago Tribune) Donald Trump has consistently vowed to repeal and replace Obamacare. But he has yet to explain what he intends to replace it with. His meeting schedule today might offer a clue of what he is pondering. On the agenda is a chat with Seema Verma, an architect of Indianas unusual healthcare program for the poor. Indiana is among a handful of red states that took federal aid through the Affordable Care Act to expand Medicaid eligibility to poor, childless adults. But unlike most traditional Medicaid expansions, Indiana set up a system that requires many low-income residents on the program to pay small monthly contributions for their health coverage. Conservatives, including the states governor, Vice President-elect Mike Pence, have argued that this makes poor patients take greater responsibility for their health. And healthcare advocates in Indiana generally supported the program, in large part because it was seen as the only way to expand health protections in the deeply conservative state. But cost-sharing requirements for low-income patients remains controversial, and a number of states that have experimented with it in the past stopped after concluding it was too expensive and difficult to administer. Read More Facebook
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Britain says not so fast to Trump tweet about Nigel Farage as ambassador to U.S. By Laura King Donald Trump, right, welcomes pro-Brexit British politician Nigel Farage to speak at a campaign rally in Jackson, Miss., in August. (Gerald Herbert / Associated Press) Donald Trump and Nigel Farage were always something of a love match. But cold political realities may have intervened. The U.S. president-elect tweeted late Monday that Farage, leader of a far-right British political party, would make a great British ambassador to Washington. Apparently, the British response early Tuesday could be summarized as: Er, no. There is no vacancy, the Guardian newspaper quoted a spokesman at 10 Downing St., the prime ministers official residence in London, as saying. We already have an excellent ambassador to the U.S. Farage was a wholehearted proponent of Brexit, the June referendum in which the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union, with still unknown long-term results. The British politician traveled to the United States during the campaign to offer his support for Trump, making rally appearances to sometimes bemused crowds to promote their purported common cause. In the course of his push for the presidency, Trump declared himself Mr. Brexit, and at one point dubbed his insurgent campaign Brextit-plus-plus an allusion to his support for a referendum across the Atlantic that was strongly colored by anti-immigrant sentiment. Farage was among the early visitors to Trump Tower following the GOP candidates unexpected victory. The two posed, grinning, in front of a bank of gold-plated elevators in the president-elects Manhattan residence. But hopes of a more formalized relationship appear to have been dashed. The Guardian quoted members of Parliament as saying Farages inflammatory views made him a poor candidate for a diplomatic post. The Reuters news agency said it would be highly unusual for an incoming foreign administration to so publicly air its pick for a diplomatic post. Trumps suggestion, it noted, provoked anger, support and even hilarity in Britain. The news agency quoted a Conservative lawmaker, Simon Burns, as joking that Britain should name its own choice for U.S. envoy to the United Kingdom: Hillary Clinton. Facebook
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Trump the president vs. Trump the businessman: Can he juggle both? By Don Lee Donald and Melania Trump greet a guest at a grand-opening ceremony last month at Trumps new hotel in Washington. (Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images) The Trump Organization spent months trying to drive off the culinary union from its Las Vegas hotel, losing one legal battle after another before a federal labor board. Soon Donald Trumps company, which has refused to bargain with the union after housekeepers and other employees voted to join last December, could gain some leverage. As president, Trump will be able to appoint two new members to the National Labor Relations Board, giving the agency a 3-2 Republican majority that could be more sympathetic to Trump. We hope that Mr. Trump doesnt use his power to interfere, considering he has a financial interest in the outcome, said Bethany Khan, spokeswoman for Culinary Workers Union Local 226. Khans concern is but one of many examples of potential conflicts of interest that could arise for Trump the president vs. Trump the businessman. His vast holdings include hotels, office buildings and golf courses, and he has licensing deals across the globe. Read More Facebook
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Donald Trump briefly cancels meeting with New York Times and complains about its nasty tone By Amy Fiscus I cancelled today's meeting with the failing @nytimes when the terms and conditions of the meeting were changed at the last moment. Not nice Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 22, 2016 Donald Trump briefly canceled a meeting Tuesday with New York Times journalists, claiming that its terms were suddenly changed. The charge was made in the obfuscatory style that has come to mark Trumps tweets. He said only that the terms of the meeting were changed, not who changed them; the paper said Trump, not anyone on its side, had requested new terms after the meeting was set. NYT did not try to change ground rules. Trump did, asking for only a private meeting and no on-the-record segment, which NYT refused. https://t.co/EpmZFdDYAh Jonathan Mahler (@jonathanmahler) November 22, 2016 The meeting was supposed to have included both a private discussion, similar to one Trump had Monday with television news network executives, and a segment where reporters were free to quote Trump by name. The Times said Trump later asked for the meeting to be fully private, a request the newspaper refused. After the cancelation gained widespread attention, spokeswomen for both Trump and the newspaper said it was back on as scheduled. Trump has done a handful of interviews since being elected, none with the Times, and has not held a news conference, as is customary for most presidents within a few days of their election. He also said the papers coverage of him had a nasty tone, without citing specifics. Its front page Wednesday included stories questioning the constitutionality of his foreign business deals and one citing concerns that the military might have too much influence over foreign policy in a Trump administration. 7:25 a.m.: This story was updated with the scheduled meeting being reinstated. Facebook
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Neo-Nazi alt-right crowd cheers the president-elect with Hail Trump By Jessica Roy A newly released video shows a room full of people doing the Hitler salute and yelling Hail Trump! after listening to a speech about white nationalism that invokes Nazi terminology. The video was taken over the weekend by a reporter for The Atlantic while working on a documentary about Richard Spencer. Spencer is the person speaking in the video. He runs the National Policy Institute, a self-described alt-right think tank that openly supports white nationalist and neo-Nazi policies. In the past, he has called for a peaceful ethnic cleansing of the United States. In the video, Spencer calls the media leftists and cucks, invoking popular alt-right insults for people they disagree with. He calls the media the Lugenpresse, which is what the original Nazi Party called the media in Germany the lying press. We dont exploit other groups, he says, the we referring explicitly to white people. We dont gain anything from their presence. The press has clearly decided to double-down and wage war against the legitimacy of Trump and the continued existence of white America, he continues. But they are really opening up the door for us.... America was, until this past generation, a white country, designed for ourselves and our posterity. It is our creation, it is our inheritance, and it belongs to us. America was, until this past generation, a white country, designed for ourselves and our posterity. It is our creation, it is our inheritance, and it belongs to us. Richard Spencer Members of the crowd give the Nazi salute throughout the speech. Last week, the Twitter accounts for Spencer and his think tank were suspended, along with a number of other alt-right accounts. Trumps campaign issued a statement in response to the video: President-elect Trump has continued to denounce racism of any kind and he was elected because he will be a leader for every American. To think otherwise is a complete misrepresentation of the movement that united Americans from all backgrounds. White supremacists have credited Trumps win with sparking a new interest in their movement. Facebook
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Donald Trumps first promises since winning the election leave out the border wall, NAFTA and his Muslim ban By Noah Bierman President-elect Donald Trump spent more than a year campaigning to build a border wall, repeal Obamacare and rescind President Obamas moves to protect from deportation some immigrants who came to the U.S. illegally. But in his first extensive public comments since winning the election this month, Trump mentioned none of those issues. Nor did he talk about withdrawing from the North American Free Trade Agreement, banning Muslims from entering the country, or ending the Syrian refugee program. Trump instead made five more modest promises for his first day in office during a nearly three-minute video released Monday that presented him as a more moderate figure and appeared to be an effort to soften Trumps message while he establishes an inner circle of advisors and Cabinet picks of hard-liners. In the video, Trump promises to withdraw from the massive Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, a potential disaster for our country, and instead pursue bilateral agreements with some of the Pacific countries involved. He promised to lift restrictions on energy production, including shale and coal, implement a rule that any new government regulation must be accompanied by removing two regulations on the books and to instruct his Joint Chiefs of Staff to develop a new cybersecurity plan. His only discussion of immigration involved the legal immigration system a crackdown on visa fraud. Trump also said his previously announced ethics rules barring employees in his administration from lobbying for five years after they leave the government and from lobbying for foreign governments for life would take effect as soon as he is inaugurated. Trump vowed in the video to release more plans in the days to come. These are some of our Day 1 executive actions, spokesman Jason Miller said in an email. By no means is it everything hell work on day one or after that many additional good things to come. Read More Facebook
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World gets glimpse of deportation plan Kris Kobach took to meeting with Trump By Colleen Shalby Kris Kobach, the Kansas secretary of state whos been tapped to join Donald Trumps immigration policy transition team, probably didnt intend for the world to see details of his plan to bar terrorists and Syrian refugees when he brought it to a meeting Monday. But thats what happened when he posed for a photo with President-elect Donald Trump outside of Trump International Golf Club in New Jersey. The document was in full unobstructed view, as Kobach apparently wasnt thinking about the power of a zoom lens. The clearest part reads: DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY KOBACH STRATEGIC PLAN FOR FIRST 365 DAYS Bar entry of Potential Terrorists Update and reintroduce the NSEERs screening and tracking system (National Entry-Exit Registration System) that was in place from 2002-2005. All aliens from high-risk areas are tracked. Add extreme vetting questions for high-risk aliens; question them regarding support for Sharia law, jihad, equality of men and women, the United States Constitution. Reduce intake of Syrian refugees to zero, using authority under the 1980 Refugee Act. Record Number of Criminal Aliens in the First Year Those details arent exactly new. Trump has made it clear that he intends to deport 2 million to 3 million immigrants in the country illegally who fall under his definition of criminal. And Kobach, who is behind several controversial immigration laws and was the architect behind the NSEERs system, has said previously that he will help Trump reverse President Obamas immigration policies. The Obama administration has set a second-term priority to deport migrants with criminal convictions. Since taking office, Obama has expelled more people than any other president in American history. Less legible on Kobachs document, but still visible, are mentions of its definition of criminal alien (any alien arrested for any crime, and any gang member); the phrase 386 miles of existing actual wall; the Patriot Act; and Draft Amendment to National Voter .... Its possible this line refers to the National Voter Registration Act. Kansas Senate Minority Leader Anthony Hensley criticized Kobach. Thats the height of irony if hes wanting a job in Homeland Security and youre able to see in a photograph what should be confidential information, Hensley said. Facebook
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Rolling out Obamacare was chaotic, but a repeal could be much worse By Noam N. Levey In the summer of 2013, as state and federal officials readied new insurance marketplaces created through the Affordable Care Act, millions of Americans started getting disquieting notices from their insurers. Health plans were being canceled because they didnt comply with the law, often called Obamacare. Some 4 million people were ultimately told they would lose their plans. The ensuing outrage sparked a political firestorm, seriously eroded public confidence in Obamacare and forced an embarrassed President Obama to change federal regulations so people could keep their coverage. Yet that tumultuous episode could be dwarfed by what President-elect Donald Trumps administration and its congressional allies unleash beginning next year. They plan to not only repeal the law but are contemplating changes that are significantly more far-reaching and could disrupt insurance coverage for many more Americans than did the original law. Read More Facebook
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The U.S. labor forces guy problem: Why arent more men working? By Jim Puzzanghera Inmates at San Quentin State Prison in August. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times) As the recovery from the Great Recession continues, job growth is solid and the labor force is growing at close to its fastest pace since 2000 because more unemployed workers are coming off the sidelines. Still, the percentage of working-age Americans in the labor force remains stuck near its lowest level since the late 1970s. Although retiring baby boomers are the main reason, theres another troubling factor that experts predict wont be solved by stronger economic growth. Too many men in their prime dont have a job and arent even looking for one. Experts trying to figure out the reasons are probing the roles of criminal background checks, painkillers and even video games. In all, about 7 million men ages 25 to 54 are neither employed nor available for work, putting them outside the labor force. Their growing numbers worry and puzzle economists. Read More Facebook
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Obama gives strong support to Pelosi as she faces leadership fight By Christi Parsons House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press) President Obama all but endorsed Nancy Pelosi to continue to lead House Democrats on Sunday, defending her as she faces a challenge to her position from restive members of the Democratic caucus. Although he is reticent to meddle in party votes while he is on the way out the door, Obama said at a news conference that he cannot speak highly enough of the first female House speaker, who has been a key ally on some of his most important work as president. She combines strong progressive values with just extraordinary political skill, and she does stuff thats tough, not just stuff thats easy, Obama said when asked whether the California Democrat should be reelected to her position. Obama made his remarks during a news conference in Lima, Peru, where he was wrapping up a summit meeting with Asian and Pacific leaders. Some of Pelosis decisions have been unpopular, even with voters in her San Francisco district, he said, but she has done them anyway because its the right thing to do for the American people. Pelosi faces a challenge from Rep. Tim Ryan of Ohio, a seven-term member of the House. Perhaps the most notable example of her support for Obamas agenda was Pelosis steadfast support for the Affordable Care Act, which likely cost some Democrats their seats in Congress in the midterm election when Republicans took over the chamber. In offering advice to fellow Democrats, though,
Like all new presidents, President-elect Donald Trump has a crowded agenda for his first 100 days. Unlike his predecessors, Trump faces or is pursuing a slew of civil lawsuits, perhaps as many as 75.
Trump entities have sued Jose Andres and Geoffrey Zakarian related to leases in the Old Post Office building in Washington, D.C. Both backed out of leases after Trumps controversial comments about Mexican immigrants. Most prominently, Trump faces the resumption of a fraud lawsuit related to Trump University. The news is awash with reports that Trumps lawyers have asked for a delay of proceedings until inauguration, saying the president-elect is now too busy to participate. But it is hard to see how Trump would have more time for this suit after he moves into the White House. Being president is not a part-time job.
The new president appears doomed to be distracted by his private concerns. Fortunately, a solution is within our grasp. Congress can pass a law that would put these kinds of civil actions on hold while President Trump remains in office. The law would have to provide that any lawsuit against a sitting president or president-elect, filed before or after he or she assumed office, would not proceed until the president left office. Such a law wouldnt protect the president from impeachment or criminal prosecution, but it would ensure that Trump would not be distracted by civil litigation arising out of his personal life or business interests.
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Donald Trump has a vast fortune. If Congress doesnt shield him from [lawsuits], his time and attention will be dissipated trying to preserve his riches.
Granting such temporary immunity may seem unprecedented. Its not. Under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, federal law already protects soldiers and sailors by providing for the temporary suspension of judicial and administrative proceedings and transactions that may adversely affect them during their military service. Tailoring a new law to protect the president would ensure that the commander in chief, no less than our men and women in the armed forces, may devote [his or her] entire energy to the defense [and civilian] needs of the Nation. Any statute of limitations, federal or state, could also be suspended, or tolled, for the presidential term, meaning that such limits would not prevent parties from pursuing their claims after President Trump left office. (The law might have to make some exceptions for divorce, or child custody decisions, for example.)
A Presidents Civil Relief Act is necessary because of the Supreme Courts decision in Paula Jones vs. Clinton. In that case, Jones sued then-President Bill Clinton for sexual harassment dating to his time as Arkansas governor. When it got to the Supreme Court, the justices had to rule on whether the Constitution conferred temporary civil immunity on the president. The answer was no, and almost as an aside, the court predicted the Jones suit would be highly unlikely to occupy any substantial amount of the presidents time.
The court was right on the first point. The Constitution does not place the president above the law or make him temporarily immune from civil actions. But the court was utterly wrong in its prediction. The Paula Jones suit opened up a huge can of worms, occupying a tremendous amount of the presidents time. Statements the president made in the case were eventually found to be false, the president was held in contempt of court and he was disbarred from practicing law.
Donald Trump has a vast fortune. If Congress doesnt shield him from the lawsuits that already afflict him, and those on the horizon, his time and attention will be dissipated trying to preserve his riches. As citizens, we dont have to care about his personal finances. But we do have to worry that he will be distracted from the duties he now owes the public.
Admittedly, forcing plaintiffs to wait four or eight years seems unfair. Justice delayed could be justice denied. But as is true for members of the armed forces, there is a powerful, overriding case that the needs of the nation must outweigh the needs of the few. We simply cannot afford to have a president bogged down in lawsuit after lawsuit.
Congress can also make things fairer by taking a few additional steps. First, any law passed must not be Trump specific. Rather it should provide for immunity from civil suit for all future presidents. A President Sanders or a President Rubio should also serve without such distractions. Further, Congress should consider whether to shield the president from having to testify in court even if he or she is not a party to the particular lawsuit. A suit against a Trump corporation, though not against Trump himself, may still require his time and testimony. Such suits could be allowed to proceed, so long as they did not require any testimony on the presidents part.
Third and most importantly, symmetry is in order. If suits against a president cannot proceed, civil suits by the president in his personal capacity should not go forward either. In particular, President Trump should not be able to actively pursue libel suits or suits against those who breach contracts or owe him debts. Nor should he be able to testify on behalf of his business interests in their lawsuits. If we are going to temporarily protect Trump from suits, he must also be subject to a freeze on any personal legal actions he might wish to pursue or assist. Anything less would be a travesty.
Trump shouldnt be defending himself or his businesses in civil court until he leaves office. And he shouldnt be suing others. His time is now our time.
Saikrishna Prakash is a professor of law at the University of Virginia and the author of Imperial from the Beginning: The Constitution of the Original Executive.
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To the editor: Reporter Catherine Decker wrote that the Democrats struggled through the wreckage of one of their worst election nights in memory. I had to reread worst. (For reeling Democrats, now what? Nov. 10)
Winning a few hundred thousands votes more than your opponent is not the worst and underscores the necessity to get rid of the Electoral College, this being the fifth time, and second in 16 years, that actual votes didnt determine our president.
To my mind, worst recalls Ronald Reagans 1984 landslide against Walter Mondale, Richard Nixons 1972 victory over George McGovern and Lyndon Johnsons 1964 triumph over Barry Goldwater.
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Hillary Clinton made a mistake taking for granted so-called guaranteed states, barely losing Wisconsin and Michigan and winning Minnesota by slightly more than one percentage point. Others she lost, Pennsylvania and Florida, were in the 1-1.5% range.
Even with that, the American people still voted for her over Donald Trump.
Michael Russnow, West Hollywood
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To the editor: Rather than attacking the president-elect, perhaps progressives need to engage him. The damage caused by his hate speech is already done.
Today I want to thank Trump for his massive infrastructure plan. It is desperately needed and is something no Democrat can get through Congress. At the same time I urge him to take another look at the evidence for climate change.
He should also look at how American workers would be better protected if the government went after employers who pay less than minimum wage to undocumented workers instead of going after hardworking people who would make great citizens if given the chance.
Trump is not an orthodox Republican. His commitments are uncertain. Progressives need to forge some sort of alliance with him as he has the power to be a bulwark against the right-wing ideologues serving in Congress and as vice president.
Diane Lefer, Los Angeles
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To the editor: The Affordable Care Acts repeal would benefit us all. As a giveaway to the health and pharmaceutical industries, every part of our monetized healthcare system has turned into an extortion racket and become unaffordable to too many of us. (Trump embraces the cool parts of Obamacare but not the part that makes it work, Nov. 11)
As a longtime advocate for single-payer healthcare with mandated price controls, I see California, without the constraints of Obamacare, again leading the nation in reform and finally giving the people the gift of healthcare.
In the recent past, the state Legislature passed single-payer initiatives that were vetoed by then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. We have already entered a new era where hope is allied with the revolutionary spirit that is part of our American heritage.
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Jerome P. Helman, MD, Venice
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California Democrats ask Obama to pardon nearly 750,000 Dreamers, but White House says it wouldnt work
The members of Congress who persuaded President Obama to grant temporary legal status to hundreds of thousands of immigrants brought into the country illegally as children are now asking him to use a pardon to prevent those immigrants from being deported by President-elect Donald Trump.
The White House, however, promptly batted down the idea.
Reps. Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose), Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-Downey) and Luis Gutierrez (D-Ill.) sent a letter to Obama on Thursday asking him to use his pardon authority to forgive the past and future civil immigration offenses of the nearly 750,000 people granted deportation deferrals under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, program.
They believe that would keep those people from being deported, and even though it would leave them in legal limbo without work permits or visas, they could more easily apply for legal status from within the U.S. without immigration offenses on their records.
They wouldnt have a piece of paper, they wouldnt have work authorization, but they wouldnt have to be living in fear every moment of their lives about deportation, Lofgren said after a news conference Thursday.
Lofgren, a former immigration attorney, said the pardons would probably be applied to the civil offenses related to entering and remaining in the country without authorization.
But whether a pardon would actually be applicable in the so-called Dreamers situation is unclear. Lawyers disagree over whether the immigrants could be pardoned for civil crimes they havent been formally accused of, and whether such a pardon would actually prevent them from being deported while they seek legal status.
A White House official signaled late Thursday that the administration was not considering a pardon for those registered under DACA because it believes a pardon would not allow them legal status.
We note that the clemency power could not give legal status to any undocumented individual. As we have repeatedly said for years, only Congress can create legal status for undocumented individuals, an administration official said.
After immigration reform efforts stalled in Congress during Obamas first term, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus pressured Obama to act independently to protect from deportation certain immigrants brought into the country illegally when they were children. He then used an executive order to create the DACA program in 2012.
The Dreamers, one in three of whom are estimated to live in California, gave the Department of Homeland Security their fingerprints, home addresses and other information to undergo background checks that allowed them to defer deportation under DACA.
At the time, advocates and the administration emphasized that providing the information would protect the Dreamers and was worth the risk. But with Trump vowing to deport millions of people who are in the country illegally and many fearing he may let the DACA program expire, Dreamers are worried the information they provided will be used to deport them.
Rep. Judy Chu (D-Monterey Park), whose husband is an immigration attorney, said at the news conference she has been getting a flood of messages from frightened Dreamers. On Tuesday she sent a letter to Obama asking him to keep their information from the Trump administration.
We promised these recipients security, and now they are facing a nightmare, she said.
Roybal-Allard said those who pushed Obama to create the program and persuaded people to come out of the shadows to register with the government have an obligation to protect them.
These are kids. We feel a sense of responsibility. We went out into our districts and we talked to the Dreamers, and they asked us, Is it really OK for us to do this? Roybal-Allard said. And we said, No, dont worry, you need to come forward. Now we are in a situation where all that we said, in fact, could possibly be reversed.
Although the presidents pardon power is normally used for individual cases, there is some precedent for the chief executive to pardon a large group of people.
President Jimmy Carter pardoned half a million Vietnam War draft evaders in 1977, and at least seven other presidents have issued broad pardons.
Congress and the Supreme Court cannot undo a presidential pardon, nor can a new president.
Lofgren said if Obama doesnt pardon the Dreamers, she hopes he responds with his own idea to help them.
These young people are not alone, they are not going to be abandoned by us, she said.
UPDATES
4:59 p.m. This post was updated with additional details throughout.
2:15 p.m. This post was updated with the White Houses response to the proposal.
This post was originally published at 11:30 a.m.
President Obama on Monday heads for Europe and then South America to face world leaders wondering what to expect from the U.S. after he leaves office, and to deliver the only honest answer he has: He just doesnt know.
Aides to the president have spent the last few days wrestling with what to say about President-elect Donald Trump on the global stage. A private one-on-one meeting in the Oval Office a few days ago between Trump and Obama did little to shed light.
As a result, Obama is planning simply to note Trumps public commitment to work with him on a peaceful transfer of power, and to point to the historical precedent of U.S. presidents honoring longstanding alliances
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Presidents in both parties have been committed to investing in those alliances, White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest said. Thats certainly what has happened in the past.
Obama had hoped to be more specific when he first planned this trip months ago. Harboring a deep concern about the uncertain future of Europe, thrust into its own incendiary mix of a rise of nationalism amid an influx of millions of refugees, he wanted to use his final official foreign trip to reassure European allies and pledge support for shared policies.
At the time, he believed that Democrat Hillary Clinton would be elected to succeed him in the White House and that hed be endorsing her plans to remain on the same foreign policy track after a long and divisive presidential campaign.
Trumps election changed all that. The Republican president-elect has offered few details of his plans for dealing with the rest of the world even as he cast himself as an opponent of existing trade agreements, the Iran nuclear deal and much of Obamas military strategy. He has said he prefers to keep adversaries guessing.
Of particular concern to the leaders of NATO-allied countries, many of whom Obama will meet with this week, is Trumps profession of admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin. The allies are at odds with Russia over its intervention in Ukraine, aggression in the Baltics and military support for Syrian President Bashar Assad in the years-long civil war there.
This trip was really meant to say, You know, we went through it, but were going to be fine, said Heather Conley, director of the Europe program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Now the president has the unenviable task of explaining.
European leaders fear the Trump effect, she said, and are very worried because the same populist, nationalist expressions, whether thats on immigration, whether that is on free trade, has certainly been running very strong political currents within Europe.
Obama doesnt want to explain or speculate about Trumps plans, one senior aide said. Nor does he want to speak disrespectfully of the president-elect in private meetings with world leaders who may be trying to figure out how to deal with or even manipulate the new head of state. At the same time, Obama wants to be frank about the concerns and aspirations of Americans who elected Trump.
The high-wire act begins Monday as Obama leaves for Athens, where hell discuss the NATO alliance and Greeces economic recovery with the countrys leaders. Hell also visit the Parthenon, that ancient symbol of democracy and western civilization, and deliver a major speech on how the world has changed while he has been in office.
On Thursday hell fly to Berlin to pay one final visit to German Chancellor Angela Merkel, whom he considers his closest partner over the course of his presidency. On Friday he will take part in a broader meeting that also includes the leaders of Britain, France, Italy and Spain.
Some see the election of Trump as heightening the importance of Merkel, on whom the U.S. has relied heavily to help manage the crisis in Ukraine and Europes economic future.
Obama will weigh in with a much larger group of world leaders after flying to Peru on Friday for a summit of the 21 members of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation organization. Obama will publicly confront the likelihood that the U.S. will back out of the massive Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal he spent years pushing. Trump made clear on the campaign trail that he is against it.
Obama also may have to acknowledge to all of them, particularly Chinese President Xi Jinping, that the Trump-led government may not live up to the obligations of the global climate deal he pushed and that Obama and Xi jump-started with their own agreement two years ago.
And the South Korean and Japanese delegation will surely want to talk about Trumps suggestions during the campaign that it might be a good idea for their countries to obtain nuclear weapons.
Trumps nuclear policy remains elusive. He denied Sunday that he had recommended Japan or South Korea arm themselves with nuclear weapons, though he said so in a forum in March during a discussion of how to counter North Koreas efforts to obtain nuclear weapons.
I have absolutely no idea what Trumps view is, said James Acton, a nuclear specialist at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. And neither, I strongly suspect, does he.
Trump has also said some allies dont pay enough to support U.S. military bases in their countries and suggested that perhaps the bases should close.
We defend Japan. We defend Germany. We defend South Korea. We defend Saudi Arabia, Trump said during one presidential debate. They do not pay us what they should be paying us.
Obama may not want to stoke fear, but he also shares those leaders concern about what is happening across the globe.
Following his meeting with Trump in the Oval Office on Thursday, aides to the president were reluctant to speculate about whether Trump will dial back from his campaign rhetoric.
Ill let the president-elect and his team discuss what their plans are, Earnest said. But certainly our allies should understand the longstanding history in this country about the way that we not just maintain but actually advance our alliances around the world.
Twitter: @cparsons, @mikememoli
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Steve Bannon was one of Donald Trumps closest confidants and most determined field lieutenants throughout the presidential campaign; now he has become President-elect Trumps first major postelection political problem.
The angry backlash against Trumps announcement that the Breitbart News executive would serve as his chief White House strategist gave dispirited Democrats and other critics of the president-elect a rallying point Monday. Mainstream Jewish and Muslim groups warned that Trump was elevating an enthusiastic promoter of white nationalism to a desk steps from the Oval Office.
Republican lawmakers many of whom have their own reasons for disliking Bannon were not inclined to defend him.
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Ive never met the guy, House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.) said on CNN, adding that I trust Donalds judgment.
I do not know Steve Bannon, House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield) said as he repeatedly parried questions from reporters at a news conference Monday morning.
That reluctance to actively defend Trumps choice came as no surprise. Bannon is, after all, a man who said in a 2004 interview with the Daily Beast that I want to bring everything crashing down, and destroy all of todays establishment.
He repeatedly has made clear that he does not exempt the Republican leadership from that desired fate.
The fight over his appointment underscored the continued tension between the party leadership and Trump. The president-elect clearly values Bannons strategic advice and relied heavily on him to pilot his campaign in its closing months. But whether Trump can navigate the conflict within the party and what role Bannon plays in doing so could be central to whether the new administration can succeed.
All that left Bannon where he has been throughout his career in a bunker exchanging fire with what he derisively calls the forces of political correctness.
Only the stakes had suddenly become much higher.
The rage that many civil rights activists and leaders of minority groups have toward Bannon has been swelling for years, long before Trump brought him into the inner sanctum of his operation.
For many, Bannon personifies the so-called alt-right, which the Anti-Defamation League in a statement Sunday night denounced as a loose-knit group of white nationalists and unabashed anti-Semites and racists. Indeed, Bannons appointment to Trumps campaign this year had drawn praise from former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke and neo-Nazi organizations.
Bannon, who has been fighting multiculturalism and the country club politics of the Republican Party establishment for years, has been aggressively seeking out rumbles since he was a kid in Richmond, Va., growing up in a house not far from where Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Kaine lives.
His father, Martin, still lives in the neighborhood. His younger brother, Mike, recently recounted to the local newspaper how he was constantly getting called to the neighborhood pool as a teenager to drag his brother out of a fight.
Bannon signed up for the Navy directly out of college, became an officer, left in 1983 for Harvard Business School, then landed a job at Goldman Sachs. His subsequent years in investment banking made him rich, and Hollywood production credits added yet more intrigue to his biography.
He picked up something else, as well: His experiences with the self-satisfied nature of Americas financial and cultural elites made him angry, he says.
I went to Harvard Business School, worked at Goldman Sachs, he told a Times reporter in 2010. I know about elites, I know about the contempt that they hold. They hold the basic heartland of this country in contempt.
Bannon became a close friend and patron of Andrew Breitbart, and took over operations of his news organization in 2012, when Breitbart died suddenly of heart failure at age 43.
At Breitbart, Bannons antagonisms manifested themselves in coverage that routinely referred negatively to Muslims, inner-city minorities and women, among other groups. Often the facts were suspect, as when Breitbart wrote about an extremely flawed polls finding that more than half of American Muslims wanted sharia law, or suggested that Hillary Clintons aide, Huma Abedin, might be a Saudi operative.
One Breitbart writer declared America has a Muslim problem and made clear he was not talking about extremist Muslims, but all Muslims.
The headline of one Breitbart story screamed: Birth control makes women unattractive and crazy. Another headline referred to William Kristol, the editor of the conservative magazine the Weekly Standard and an opponent of Trumps, as a renegade Jew.
Journalist Ben Shapiro, a former writer for Breitbart, described it as a platform for white ethno-nationalism and a cesspool for white supremacist meme makers.
GOP strategist Kurt Bardella, who said he talked to Bannon almost daily for two years while working as Breitbarts media consultant, described him as the ideological driving force behind Breitbart and its content.
He put himself front and center, said Bardella, who parted ways with Breitbart as the site became something he saw as toxic and perpetually malcontent.
Bannons allies, however, call talk of racism outrageous. On Monday, as the denunciations of Bannon mounted, Breitbart employees quickly signed onto what had all the appearances of a traditional crisis-communications exercise, releasing statements painting Bannon as a sensitive and sympathetic employer even someone who prizes diversity.
That portrait contrasts with the one that emerged in court filings. In 2007, during divorce proceedings, Bannons then-wife alleged that he repeatedly made anti-Semitic remarks as the couple toured Los Angeles private schools for their daughters.
She said Bannon had asked the director of the Westland School why there were so many Hanukkah books in the library. He was concerned that the Willows Community School used to be in a temple, she alleged in a court filing.
In a deposition, referring to Bannons reaction to another prominent private school, she said that the biggest problem he had with Archer is the number of Jews that attend. He said that he doesnt like Jews and that he doesnt like the way they raise their kids to be whiny brats, and that he didnt want the girls going to school with Jews.
Bannon, who ultimately sent his children to Archer for middle school and high school, has denied ever making any such comments.
This is what they will do to anybody who defeats the left, said Joel Pollak, a Breitbart journalist in California who is an Orthodox Jew.
There are no Nazis here, no white nationalists here, Pollak said, of the Breitbart newsroom. If our articles appeal to people beyond our core audience, there is nothing I can do about that.
We are what we have always been, he said, a voice for the conservative movement.
Times staff writers Michael A. Memoli in Washington and Robin Abcarian in Los Angeles contributed to this report.
evan.halper@latimes.com
Follow me: @evanhalper
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UPDATES:
5:35 p.m.: This article was updated with background on Bannons upbringing and Breitbart News, as well as comments by Breibart journalist Joel Pollak.
This article was originally published at 10:50 a.m.
Donald Trumps White House is starting to take shape. Whats less clear at this point is what sort of policies he will pursue as president, even as states like California spring into action with some fearing whats to come.
Im Christina Bellantoni. Welcome to Essential Politics.
The president-elect on Sunday signaled that the dual forces that helped get him elected Republican loyalists and far-right conservatives will share power in his administration. He named Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus as his White House chief of staff and Stephen K. Bannon, the campaign CEO who helped amplify some of his most incendiary rhetoric, as his chief strategist. The men, who each helped him win, were labeled equal partners in a statement announcing their new roles.
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But the bigger headline from the weekend was Trump saying on CBS 60 Minutes he would defer the wider deportations he promised on the campaign trail until after the border is secure.
What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records probably 2 million, it could be even 3 million, we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate, Trump said. After the border is secure, and after everything gets normalized, were going to make a determination on whether to deport others, he said.
With Californians and others attempting to understand if people who were granted legal status under President Obamas executive orders will face deportation or be forced to go back into the shadows, Speaker Paul D. Ryan said Sunday the GOP isnt planning any sort of deportation force come January.
Either way, the Golden States political leaders could be on a collision course with Trump if he pushes hard-line immigration policies enthusiastically backed by many of his supporters.
The Times over the weekend examined Obamacares future in California, profiled the man who could be the next Treasury Secretary and covered the thousands of people taking to the streets to protest Trumps election.
Our team also talked with members of Trump Nation, who say they are being depicted unfairly as racist and ignorant.
In other transition news, the president-elects lawyers want to delay the Trump University legal proceedings.
Get the latest about the Trump transition on Trail Guide and follow @latimespolitics.
AND THEYRE OFF!
Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who has been out of Californias political limelight for the past three years, has launched a 2018 bid for governor. Villaraigosa joins a list of well-known fellow Democrats in the race, including Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom and state Treasurer John Chiang, both of whom have been feverishly raising campaign funds. Villaraigosa told Phil Willon that his campaign will focus on helping Californians who have been left behind in the new economy, as well as improving the states public schools and crumbling infrastructure.
George Skelton devotes his Monday column to the 2018 race, writing that this contest is unlikely to be a slugfest.
As always, were tracking California politics on our Essential Politics news feed.
KAMALA HARRIS PREPARES TO TAKE ON TRUMP
Just two days after her landslide U.S. Senate victory, Kamala Harris vowed to do everything in her power to protect immigrants who entered the country illegally from Trumps immigration agenda, including his calls for mass deportations and the construction of a border wall. Harris made the comments at her first public event since election day, which she held with immigrants and immigrant rights activists at the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles.
Harris also said she plans to continue serving as California attorney general until she is officially sworn into the U.S. Senate on Jan. 3.
WHATS NEXT FOR LORETTA SANCHEZ?
Will Rep. Loretta Sanchez stay involved in California politics after her landslide loss against Harris for the U.S. Senate seat? And if she does, what routes are there for her to run again?
Sanchez said shell take a few weeks to ponder the next move.
Sarah Wire spoke with some strategists about what might be ahead politically for Sanchez as she packs up her 20-year career in Washington and looks toward the future.
MEET THE THREE LATINOS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA JUST ELECTED TO CONGRESS
Southern California voters elected three Latinos to fill open seats in Congress, increasing the diversity of the states delegation in Washington and showing the growing clout of the states largest ethnic group, Javier Panzar reports.
The three Democrats Nanette Barragan, Salud Carbajal and Lou Correa won seats representing parts of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and Orange County, respectively.
Though Democrats failed to win control of the House, Senate or the presidency, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus was strengthened by eight new lawmakers for a total of 31 members in the next Congress when its size will be the largest in history.
The Congressional Hispanic Caucus is the biggest bright spot in this election, said Rep. Tony Cardenas (D-Los Angeles).
DEMOCRATS BIG BET ON A TRUMP BUMP IN CALIFORNIA DIDNT QUITE PAN OUT
A few weeks ago, it seemed Democratic legislative candidates up and down the state were banking that tying their Republican rivals to Trump would pay big dividends. To do otherwise would be political malpractice, one consultant said. Now, with most election results in, it appears the strategy didnt pay off as well as Democratic leaders had hoped.
Christine Mai-Duc reports that while it appears Democrats did pick up seats in the Assembly, only three of the seven districts where the anti-Trump strategy was used will likely go to Democrats, and at closer margins than pollsters had expected.
The overall impact was kind of a dud, said Andrew Acosta, a consultant for Dawn Ortiz-Legg, a Democrat who compared her Republican opponent Jordan Cunningham to Trump in mailers and television ads.
DEATH PENALTY BATTLE NOT OVER
Public opinion of the death penalty might have hit a record low across the country but not low enough to abolish the practice in California. Voters defeated a ballot measure to repeal capital punishment and instead are on course to narrowly approve a dueling proposition to amend and expedite it.
The results reflect a sharp divide on state-sanctioned executions, and the final outcome will conclude a closely watched ballot race to address what people on both sides of the debate have agreed is a broken system. But death penalty abolitionists say their fight is not over. Theyre waging their next challenges back in court.
CALIFORNIA POLITICS PODCAST: THE AFTERMATH
This weeks topic: What just happened?
JOIN US THURSDAY
The Los Angeles Times this week will look back at the election and look ahead to what the Trump administration might mean for California.
Weve got a hot lineup of lawmakers, political consultants and your favorite members of our political team. The symposium will be held in downtown Los Angeles. Buy tickets here.
TODAYS ESSENTIALS
-- The ballot may have been long, but voters dont actually mind, John Myers writes in his weekly column.
-- Rep. Jared Huffman was shocked by Confederate flags he saw flying in a local parade.
-- Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Tulare) was named to Trumps transition team and Rep. Duncan Hunters name is being tossed around as a possible pick for secretary of Defense and a few other Californians may be on the consideration list for Cabinet positions.
-- Democrat Madison Nguyen conceded to San Jose City Councilman Ash Kalra in one of the most expensive intraparty Assembly races this year. Outside interests spent more than $7.5 million trying to sway the contest, most of it coming from business groups and charter school advocates supporting Nguyen.
-- When the newest class of legislators is sworn in next month, the California Legislative Womens Caucus says it expects to lose two seats each in the Assembly and Senate. If the trend in the closest races holds, women will hold 10 of 40 seats in the state Senate, and 17 of 80 positions in the Assembly, according to California Women Lead, a nonpartisan association that recruits and trains women to run for public office. One encouraging sign: The number of Latinas in the Assembly will double from five to 10.
-- With the election over, 24 California state lawmakers have begun their annual migration on fact-finding and trade missions, this year to locations including Germany, China, the Czech Republic and Hawaii, officials confirmed Thursday. Given recent events, it has become even more urgent to assure our global trading partners that California is still open for business, said spokesman Kevin Liao.
-- Liberal filmmaker Michael Moore was spotted in Trump Tower this weekend.
LOGISTICS
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Loretta Sanchez first went to Washington 20 years ago after winning a race by less than 1,000 votes and against all odds. Now, after losing what was her second long-shot bid, this time for a U.S. Senate seat, she has just a few weeks left to pack up her office.
Although we dont know what our future will be, I can tell you that this is not the last that people will see of me, the U.S. House representative from Orange County said in a statement conceding the race Wednesday.
The lingering question is whether Sanchez, 56, will seek elective public office again after losing to state Atty. Gen. Kamala Harris with just 37% of the vote and if she would be successful after a campaign in which she emphasized her more conservative bonafides and attacked a candidate embraced by the Democratic establishment.
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Stay tuned, said Sanchez spokesperson Luis Vizcaino, who declined to offer more details beyond Sanchezs plans to spend the next few weeks with her husband of five years.
In this 1996 photo, Loretta Sanchez smiles as she walks with campaign manager John Shallman, who had just told her the recent ballot count preserved her victory over her Republican opponent, then-incumbent Rep. Bob Dornan. (Alex Garcia / Los Angeles Times / File photo )
The senate race was the first Democrat vs. Democrat statewide contest since Californias top-two primary system went into place, and Harris won with more than 60% of the vote, taking all but Glenn and Imperial counties.
Sanchez has bounced back from political loss before. She was a little-known financial analyst from Anaheim whose only political experience was a failed bid for Anaheim City Council when she unseated Orange County conservative Rep. Robert B-1 Bob Dornan in 1996. At the time, the news show Nightline called it the biggest upset in California congressional history.
Just like in this years race, the state Democratic Party endorsed someone else in the primary. But Sanchez ultimately beat Dornan by just 984 votes, a result he challenged, claiming the election was tainted by illegal ballots cast by noncitizens.
Though she never passed a landmark bill in Congress, Sanchez rose to become the second-ranking Democrat on both the House Homeland Security and Armed Services committees.
The second of seven children born to Mexican immigrants, she became part of the first pair of sisters to serve in Congress at the same time after her younger sibling Linda Sanchezs 2003 election.
She is known for occasional gaffes, such as using a war whoop to describe Native Americans or seeming to insinuate that President Obama endorsed Harris because they are both black. For years, she sent out lighthearted Christmas cards featuring her cat. But she also spent years advocating for women in the military and voted against the war in Iraq and the Patriot Act.
Sanchez surprised the California political world when she announced plans to give up her House seat and run for retiring Sen. Barbara Boxers seat. By the time Sanchez entered the Senate race in the spring of 2015, the state party had coalesced around Harris, leaving her to cobble together a long-shot campaign.
Sanchez hoped the chance to elect the first Latina to the Senate would spur Latino voters and give her a surprise win like the one that got to her Congress 20 years ago. If she had pulled it off, Sanchez would have joined now Sen.-elect Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada as the first Latinas in the U.S. Senate.
But she never caught up in the polls, and her fundraising lagged behind Harris throughout a campaign that drew little interest from voters, notwithstanding Sanchezs dab at the end of their only debate, which briefly drew national attention.
With the Senate race behind her, Sanchez has at least a few political routes forward. She could try for governor or another statewide office in 2018, wait to see if Dianne Feinstein retires and make another attempt at the Senate, or stay closer to home and run for a position in Orange County, such as on the Board of Supervisors.
UC San Diego political scientist Thad Kousser said Sanchez could use the support from the 3 million Californians who voted for her to springboard into another statewide office as soon as 2018.
Shes entered the political consciousness at the statewide level in a way that she didnt when she was just a member of Congress, Kousser said. You often see examples of people losing up.
But Democratic strategist Roy Behr, a former campaign advisor to Boxer, isnt so sure.
History is full of comeback stories; its just hard to see how this one would occur, he said. How do you go tell donors, Oh next time Ill do better; next time will be different.
Another complicating factor is that Sanchez moved to the right in the campaigns final months as she strove to build a coalition of conservative and independent voters against Harris, who was an early favorite among Democrats and donors and received the California Democratic Partys endorsement last winter.
But Kousser said there is still a path for Sanchez within the party. People recognize that when two Democrats faced off in November, it was just an extension of the primary, he said.
I dont think she was seen as a traitor to her party in any way, Kousser said.
If she wants to run for another position, Sanchez should keep her name in the public consciousness over the next two years, Kousser said, adding that being a vocal critic of Donald Trump would be a start in a state that got bluer when the country got redder.
Not being in office might give her a chance to associate herself with something like a ballot proposition that she can use to launch another run for statewide office. Theres some precedent for this: Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is running for governor in 2018, was the face of a gun control initiative that passed easily on Tuesday.
Her big problem is she doesnt have a political brand, Kousser said.
Her House colleagues arent sure what the future holds.
She did herself well, I think, in the campaign, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) said a few days before the election.
She compared Sanchez to Boxer, who Pelosi said knew she would have had to leave Congress if she had lost her 1991 Senate campaign.
Im sure that Loretta has great things in mind next. I dont know what they are, she said.
sarah.wire@latimes.com
Follow @sarahdwire on Twitter
Read more about the 55 members of Californias delegation at latimes.com/politics
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The O.C. is home to a very special university. Ranked among the top tier of liberal arts institutions of higher learning in the U.S., Soka University of America stands above the fray because it is founded upon Buddhist principles of peace, human rights and the sanctity of life. On Oct. 8, Soka held its 12th annual Peace Gala at its Aliso Viejo campus, attracting some 500 guests and raising more than $900,000 for student scholarships.
The gala was co-chaired by Joan May and Dita Shemke, who have been serving Soka for 10 years to produce the scholarship fundraising event. A wide cross-section of O.C. business, social and cultural support came together to ensure its financial success. Sponsors included Minora and Kinuko Kogure, Steven and Kumiko MacDonald, Jim and Sheila Peterson, Steve Chi Kong Lee, and Judy Chao Di Chow and Luis and Linda Nieves.
Also front and center for Soka were Allan and Mary Lou Beck, Matilda Buck, Elisabeth Carter, Teiko Cooper, Joe and Junko Perez, Chris Chen, Richard and Misty Fisher, and George and Kazue Elliot.
An evening of dining and dancing was emceed by Madison Ray, with auction duties in the hands of Dawn Marie Kotonis. The guest artist of the night was international recording artist Jose Feliciano, who created an uplifting and inspirational performance that was a classy conclusion to an exceptional evening in South County.
Soka Universitys student body consists of 60% American and 40% international students. Qualified students enrolled coming from households with annual incomes under $60,000 receive free tuition.
An evening to remember at the mission
The fall social season in the O.C. would be incomplete without the annual Romance of the Mission gala supporting the preservation of Mission San Juan Capistrano. The social crowd converges in the old stone church for what is nothing less than a magical evening under the stars.
Mission San Juan Capistrano was founded Nov. 1, 1776, by Padre Junipero Serra as the seventh mission erected in old California under the auspices of Spain and the Catholic Church. It is considered the most beautiful the jewel of the California missions. It has also become a center of faith for some and, for others, a center of history, culture and educational experience.
Thousands of fourth graders visit the site annually, study its history and build replicas of the mission as part of their curriculum. The process has been a decades-long, multigenerational pursuit.
Today the historical background is less based on romantic myth, with emphasis placed on the harsh reality of creating an outpost of European civilization in a very primitive and difficult environment. For many years Padre Serra was portrayed as the kindly and docile father, when in fact he was a driving taskmaster with challenges that had to be met with the resolve of a true pioneer.
The native California population Serra enlisted as the builders of his missions often suffered under his authority. Many died in his service, both from abuse and disease contracted from European settlers.
The legacy, both good and bad, is rich and meaningful. The historic mission building stands as a permanent testament to the founding of the state and its ties to European ancestors and the indigenous people of the land. It is a diverse equation that remains relevant in the modern day.
Upward of 500 donors came together to remember the past and celebrate the future, raising more than $500,000 (gross) earmarked for further restoration projects. Once again the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, under the management of Bruce Brainerd, created and served a lavish feast for patrons. Brainerd also serves on the Mission Preservation Foundation Board.
Joining the Ritz-Carlton in creating a major success were significant underwriters George and Eden OConnell, and E.J. Tracey.
American Idol finalist Clark Beckham entertained the crowd by singing many popular hits, including the obligatory When the Swallows Come Back to Capistrano.
Pacific Symphony remains a cornerstone of O.C. culture
Its hard to believe that 10 years has passed since the debut of the Henry and Renee Segerstrom Concert Hall. The respected Pacific Symphony, led by maestro Carl St.Clair, marked the 10th anniversary occasion at the concert hall during the opening the orchestras 2016-17 season.
A glamorous black and white dinner celebration at the Westin South Coast Plaza hotel preceded the opening night, as more than 200 VIP guests and symphony underwriters mingled over dinner at a very chic party chaired by the classy Jo Ellen Chatham.
Following dinner, the crowd took their seats in the concert hall for what was the first concert of the Hal and Jeanette Segerstrom Family Foundation Classical Series, which featured piano virtuoso Olga Kern performing Rachmaninoffs Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. The 38th season of Pacific Symphony opened with style, raising more than $135,000 from underwriters with funds earmarked to support artistic and educational programs.
Following the concert, patrons converged on the Terrace Pavilion deck of the Westin for champagne and dessert. VIPs in the crowd included PBS SoCals Maria Hall-Brown, Pacific Symphony President John Forsyte, Associate Concertmaster Paul Manaster, Madeline and Len Zuckerman and Corona del Mars Catherine Emmi. Also in the crowd enjoying the beautiful reception were Ernie and Donna Schroeder, Tom Rogers, Sally Anderson, Lynn and Doug Freeman, Tom and Sheila Peterson, Ling and Charlie Zhang, and David and Suzanne Chonette.
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B.W. COOK is editor of the Bay Window, the official publication of the Balboa Bay Club in Newport Beach.
Ip Man 3" is the latest in Donnie Yens series of films about the real-life martial arts master who is best known in the West for having been Bruce Lees teacher. Yen previously appeared in Ip Man (2008) and Ip Man 2: Legend of the Grandmaster (2010). On the release of the latter, Yen insisted that he was through with the character, but here he is again in a third entry. Thats fine by me.
Yens first two Ip features sparked what might be called Ip Mania. Within five years, Ip Man became the subject of a TV series and three other movies: The Legend Is Born: Ip Man (2010); Ip Man: The Final Fight (2013); and, most famously, Wong Kar-wais artier The Grandmaster (2013), with Tony Leung Chiu-wai in the lead.
Yen and director Wilson Yip stick to the formula that worked so well for them in the earlier films. This time around, we encounter Ip Man in Hong Kong, circa 1960. (The real Ip would have been pushing 70 by then, but no one ever praised the Ip Man series for fidelity to the facts.) Ips martial arts school is a success, but he seems to spend more time helping the downtrodden than looking after the school or his wife and kid.
Theres a huge gang of thugs, bullying the honest citizens, at the bidding of evil Westerners: one is a local Brit police honcho on the take; the other is Frank, a land developer, played by hold your breath Mike Tyson. You dont hire Tyson for his nuanced thespian talents, so you can rest assured that his few scenes in the first hour are just a buildup to a big fight between Frank and Ip.
That fight is a three-minute challenge that, amazingly, transpires in three minutes of screen time. Its central gag is the difference in size considerable between the two men (sort of a less extreme version of the famous Bruce Lee vs. Kareem matchup in Game of Death). Ip manages to escape with both ears intact.
The biggest fight, the climax, emerges from a major subplot about a rival master (Jin Zhang) with moral conflicts. The two men go at it with long staffs, then short knives, and finally hands and feet.
The fights are, of course, one of the main attractions of Chinese action movies. Here they have been choreographed by the venerable Yuen Woo-ping, whose credits include The Matrix, Kill Bill, Kung Fu Hustle, and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Nobody does it better.
Yip and Yen seem to want this to be more serious than a mere action film. The result is a tear-jerking subplot about Ips family, accompanied by overblown music.
Be sure to carefully check the listings before buying tickets. Some venues are presenting it in Mandarin with English subtitles; others are showing it in a dubbed version.
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ANDY KLEIN is the film critic for Marquee. He can also be heard on FilmWeek on KPCC-FM (89.3).
One snowy afternoon in April, a small group of Native Americans rode on horseback through the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation and set up camp on a windy hillside overlooking the Cannonball River. They erected tepees, foraged for firewood and prayed for allies to help their people fight the black snake.
The 1,172-mile, $3.8-billion Dakota Access pipeline, they believed, would threaten their sacred sites and contaminate the Missouri River, the water supply for the Standing Rock tribe and 17 million other Americans.
As spring turned to summer, Native people began arriving from across the Great Plains and from hundreds of other tribal nations in North America. Supporters came from Guatemala, Norway, the Czech Republic, South Africa and the Philippines. There were climate activists, community organizers, pro bono lawyers, human rights delegations, musicians, medics, clergy, journalists, hippies and a few drifters with perhaps nowhere else to go.
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By August, more than 6,000 people had created a small city in a flood plain of the Missouri to battle the pipeline, built by the Fortune 500 company Energy Transfer to pump 570,000 barrels of crude oil per day. The water protectors called their main camp Oceti Sakowin, or Seven Council Fires, after the tribes of the Great Sioux Nation. There they erected tents and tepees, parked campers and horse trailers, and planted the flags of about 300 tribes, which flap in the wind on the long dirt track called Crazy Horse Avenue.
The Seven Council Fires camp and the adjacent Sacred Stone and Red Warrior camps have become communities of Native American solidarity likely not seen in more than a century. Lakota and Dakota people say these tribes have not joined to face a common enemy since the 1876 defeat of Gen. George Custer in the Battle of the Greasy Grass, better known as Little Big Horn.
I remember this elder, years ago, he had a dream where there would be a town where its all Natives and we would be singing and dancing and laughing and eating and visiting with each other, said Linda Black Elk, a professor at nearby Sitting Bull College. And thats exactly what camp is like.
A Native American protesters shirt reads, My voice is my weapon. (Robyn Beck / AFP/Getty Images )
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Phyllis Bald Eagle and her husband, Black Horse, have come to share the old ways their grandparents taught them: How to skin a deer. How to winterize a tepee in the cold plains nights, radiating heat from the center fire through stones, willows and rugs.
Although theres a whiff of the American Indian Movements 1973 Wounded Knee, S.D., insurrection in the air, Standing Rock protesters say they espouse nonviolent resistance.
Yet Black Horse, a Cheyenne River tribal member, Bald Eagle and hundreds of others are making their stand in the face of a militarized force of state and county police and the National Guard, who have used pepper spray, rubber bullets and occasionally Tasers to push back protesters. Since Aug. 10, police have arrested more than 460 water protectors, including 141 one day in October when activists moved their tents and tepees in front of the advancing pipeline, scrawling numbers on their arms, detaining them in large cages and charging them with criminal trespass and rioting.
Darryl Grady was one of them, arrested at a demonstration Oct. 10 when he and other protesters erected a tepee in the pipelines path. Two days later, Grady warmed himself by his fire, sitting with his wife, Rochelle, and their two teenage children in the Seven Council Fires camp. He grew up in New Town on the Fort Berthold Reservation, in the heart of the Bakken oil formation and North Dakotas now-bust fracking industry. Rochelle grew up just to the west, in Williston. They saw the fracking boom bring fleeting wealth to their tribes, but also violent crime and a legacy of inequality.
Ive seen the community just bombarded with all the drilling of fracking, the draining of the aquifers, the pollution, the massive influx of people it was overwhelming, she said. After the bust, when the couple saw the next oil battle looming, they came to Standing Rock.
Understanding the lessons from past oil development is a common theme here. They always tell us to trust them; that they have all this smart, intelligent technology, said Tom Goldtooth, director of the Indigenous Environmental Network. But weve learned from other people, from other pipeline communities, that its not if a pipeline is going to spill or leak, its when.
For Goldtooth and others, a larger agenda is playing out along the river.
The goal is to build sustainable communities, said Goldtooth, sitting in the cab of his pickup truck late one windy afternoon, looking down from the hillside onto the sun-dappled tepees.
Supporters of the fight here run the gamut of motivations and skill sets. A lawyer with young children at home came from Colorado to co-found the Red Owl Legal Collective, which has posted bond money for those arrested. A volunteer who worked at Tesla brought schematics for innovative solar and other renewable technology. A photographer from Georgia runs the press credentialing center on Facebook Hill above the main camp. A medic from Appalachia treats those doused with pepper spray. A group of advocacy journalists called Unicorn Riot posts regular feeds from the front lines on Twitter and Facebook, part of a social media storm that has brought far-flung attention.
On any given day you could encounter two dozen Lutheran ministers chatting with Standing Rock tribal leaders, a Black Lives Matter delegation joining a protest march or a Japanese musician strumming a guitar at a campfire and a college student whose parents dont know hes at Standing Rock.
Nantinki Young, known as Tink, stirs soup for protesters gathered along the banks of the Cannonball River. (William Yardley / Los Angeles Times )
Some come from sheer curiosity and a wish to be part of something, despite being ill-equipped for the raw elements.
Ive been traveling for a few months, said Kendra Strebig, a young white woman from Ohio with dreadlocks to her waist. She arrived clad in Birkenstocks but got wool socks and a winter coat from the piles of donated clothes. Some organizers here are frustrated by the drain on resources, especially from young non-Native visitors; others point out that it is they, as much as anyone, who put their bodies on the line, willing to risk pepper spray, rubber bullets and jail to fight the pipeline.
Now winter is fast approaching, and with it divisions in the camp about how best to consolidate the living space for the hardcore 300 or so determined to endure outdoor living in the northern Plains, where temperatures can drop to 30 below. In nearby Cannon Ball, residents at a recent community meeting worried whether the campers could survive in the cold, and lamented the reports of theft and petty crime in the camp. Others say these are the inevitable growing pains of a freshly rooted community.
Work on the pipeline is nearly finished. Activists here are stepping up pressure on the Obama administration to deny Energy Transfer permission to complete a near-final step: drilling under the Missouri River. Whatever happens, they say, even the election of Donald Trump doesnt alter their unity of purpose.
It is absolutely a historic event, said Black Elk, the Sitting Bull College professor. She regularly puts out the call on social media to recruit new allies to come to Standing Rock, even if it is only to say to your great-grandchildren, I was there.
People from all over the world who have looked out of the corner of their eye and then looked away in shame theyre not looking away anymore, Black Elk said. Theyre coming to stand with us.
Tolan is a special correspondent.
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Donations of food, tents and blankets have always been a staple of international aid, the feel-good solution that everyone could take part in to help stem the tide of international misery.
But for years, the lesser-known story of those donations has been how often they fail to help. After the 2004 tsunami in Southeast Asia, predominately Muslim communities in Indonesia received cans of pork. Goose-down ski jackets went to Sri Lanka, known for its tropical climate and monsoons. Donated tents and cooking utensils can often been seen in market stalls in Afghanistan.
With the help of new technology, a different model is rapidly gaining currency around the world for providing victims of war and natural disaster with what they need most: money.
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Several of the United Nations most high-profile aid programs, including the World Food Program, Childrens Fund and the High Commissioner for Refugees, have all launched programs to deliver aid in cash. Private charities including CARE, Oxfam and the International Rescue Committee have launched similar projects.
The trend had its genesis in the mid-1980s when UNHCR was among the first agencies to use cash-based interventions, mainly for those voluntarily returning to their homes after displacement.
Today, UNHCR is focused on expanding cash aid as a matter of priority in more than 60 countries to help with a variety of needs, including shelter, education and income support, according to Jenifer Fenton, a spokeswoman for the agency.
Cash-based initiatives allow refugees and others of concern to prioritize their needs, giving them more control over their spending, in turn allowing them to live with greater dignity, Fenton said in a statement.
She said UNHCR plans to have cash assistance in place for most of its humanitarian assistance operations by 2020.
CARE has been gradually increasing its cash payments for both relief and development work, using such methods as vouchers, cash for work, conditional cash transfers and cash grants, said Lex Kassenberg, the groups emergency response director. Cash assistance has been essential in helping with the Syrian refugee crisis in Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan and Turkey, Kassenberg said.
But cash aid still represents just 6% of assistance across the humanitarian aid sector. And reluctance to use it persists.
Critics worry that the money in most cases given without conditions will be misused and spent on non-life-sustaining goods, including weapons. Recipients may become dependent on handouts. There are also concerns that cash aid could heighten tensions between displaced people and host communities who might also be needy but ineligible for such grants.
There is an accountability angle to cash assistance, where the implementing agencies can only account for the amount of money provided to the beneficiaries, but not for what the beneficiaries do with this money, said Kassenberg. This is probably one of the reasons why donors in the past have been reluctant to fully embrace this approach.
Technology is helping aid workers avoid some of the pitfalls and engender trust in the system.
In response to crushing humanitarian need, mounting risks for delivering aid and increasingly inaccessible populations of refugees, the International Rescue Committee is operating a trial program in Afghanistan distributing $1 million in cash through local banks and cellphone providers. The deliveries target tens of thousands of needy people in Helmand and Nangarhar provinces places at the core of the Taliban insurgency.
The program already is demonstrating the potential usefulness of technology in delivering cash transfers in a country challenged by war and large distances.
Gul Wali and his family are among those now receiving cash assistance under the program.
Walis family fled the district of Kot in June after Islamic State militants attacked, killing and kidnapping people, looting and torching homes. Wali was forced to rent a one-room, windowless, mud-walled house for his family here in Jalalabad, eastern Afghanistan.
The rescue committee awarded Wali and his family, who fled with only the clothing they were wearing, a one-time payment of $120 in cash. The former farmer spent most of it on rent and buying some medication and other basic needs.
Neither the government nor any other organization has helped us so far, said the 34-year-old father of five, who had owned his own home in Kot. Its good to get cash, because I can decide how to spend it.
Even so, Wali said he was behind on his $20-a-month rent and there wasnt enough cash left over from the grant to buy food.
The six-month test period for the Afghan project is scheduled to continue through mid-January, but officials said the agency was committed to delivering 25% of its humanitarian assistance in the form of cash relief by 2020, up from approximately 6% in 2015.
David Haines, the IRCs country director in Kabul, said the organization monitors beneficiaries and finds that needy people usually spend wisely; cash aid, he said, can often help keep a bad situation from getting worse.
We empower the beneficiaries, we give them the control, we give them the chance to spend that money in the way that most benefits their family, said Haines. That might be food, but it might also be life-saving drugs, or their kids might need something important, or it might be for transportation to some place elsewhere in Afghanistan. It enhances their dignity as human beings despite their status as displaced people.
The IRC has been using mobile phones to deliver payments in Afghanistan, along with the network of hawala dealers who have long been involved in money transfers around the Muslim world.
So far about 2,890 families, in both Helmand and Nangarhar provinces, have received cash allocations, said Muhammad Jelani, program coordinator for the International Rescue Committee in Kabul.
Beneficiaries are eligible to receive a one-time payment of at least $105 to help with immediate relief, such as buying household supplies and paying rent, or $75 to $80 via multiple payments over a period of months.
No fees or commissions are charged to the recipients. The rescue committee pays fees to the hawala dealers and cellphone providers.
Hawala dealers are used to distribute actual cash in areas where the banks and communication networks are not able to function for example, where cellphone towers have been destroyed. The dealers transfer the money to the account of a local agent anywhere in Afghanistan. An IRC staffer then goes with the agent to distribute the cash to identified beneficiaries.
In areas where cellphones are working, funds are transferred electronically and beneficiaries get a text message alert. The beneficiaries can then text the invisible money to designated shopkeepers or vendors, who then cash out the money for the beneficiaries to spend in their stores.
This type of system was already being used in Afghanistan, where teachers and police are paid via mobile phone technology. But the method is proving to be particularly useful when youve got people on the move, said Radha Rajkotia, the IRCs senior director of economic recovery and development.
Its much easier for them to pocket cash, a SIM card or a code, Rajkotia said. They can literally keep that in their pocket and keep themselves safe.
In June an internally displaced Afghan child walks beside a mud-walled home at a refugee camp in Kabul. (Wakil Kohsar / AFP/Getty Images )
The situation is bad, said Hakim Khan, in foreground, a farmer and father whose family was forced to flee Afghanistans Achin province to Jalalabad. Im happy that IRC paid us $120, so I could pay for rent. (Sultan Faizy / For The Times )
Hakim Khan, who has two wives and 11 children, spent most of the $120 he received from the IRC on rent and medication.
The IRC support was really good because the landlord was pushing us to vacate the house, said Khan, 35, who used to farm wheat and vegetables in the countrys Achin district before fleeing to Jalalabad.
But its not just about having a place to live, Khan said. He cant afford the entry fees to send his children to school.
Here in Jalalabad city, everything comes with a price, even drinking water, he said. I cant afford to buy gas, so my children go and collect trash to burn instead of gas for cooking.
While there isnt yet hard data on whether the cash program is succeeding in Afghanistan, Rajkotia said there are several preliminary positive signs. For example, when women are the beneficiaries they tend to spend the money more evenly across the household on needs such as food and education, Rajkotia said.
Increasingly, we are going to be forced to question any other interventions against the benchmark of just giving people cash, she said. Its certainly going to shape, and is already shaping, the nature of humanitarian response.
Special correspondent Faizy reported from Jalalabad and staff writer Simmons reported from Los Angeles.
ann.simmons@latimes.com
For more on global development news, see our Global Development Watch page, and follow me @AMSimmons1 on Twitter
UPDATES:
7:28 p.m. Dec. 2: This story has been updated throughout with detail about international programs experimenting with cash assistance.
This story was originally published at 2 p.m. Nov. 14.
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was being questioned by prosecutors Monday at the Ecuadorean Embassy in London about possible sexual misconduct committed in Sweden six years ago.
Assange was being interviewed at the embassy where he sought refuge more than four years ago. The questioning was being led by an Ecuadorean prosecutor in the presence of Swedish prosecutor Ingrid Isgren and a Swedish police investigator.
Prosecutors planned to ask Assange to consent to providing a DNA sample.
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Swedish officials are seeking information related to allegations of serious misconduct made by two Swedish women he met in 2010. Some of the alleged misconduct is no longer being investigated by police because of the statute of limitations.
He is, however, being questioned about a possible rape of one of the women who complained to authorities. He has not been indicted.
Prosecutors say no immediate decision on the future of Assanges case will be made on Monday. They also said no public statements will be made after the questioning, which may last several days.
Assanges Swedish defense lawyer, Per Samuelsson, told Swedish media he has high hopes the case will be closed once prosecutors have completed the interview. He complained that he has been barred from the hearing, despite arguing that Assanges Swedish lawyer must be permitted to take part.
Im not on the list of persons that Ecuador has drawn up and allowed to be present, Samuelsson told the Swedish national broadcaster SVT. An Ecuadorean lawyer has taken up this question as a formal issue in the introduction of the hearing.
Civil rights activist Peter Tatchell said outside the embassy that he and others had gathered to show solidarity with Assange and WikiLeaks. He said Assange was being hounded because of WikiLeaks work in shedding light on the terrible things done by the U.S. government and others.
Some supporters hoisted pro-Assange banners outside the embassy.
Assange has denied sexual wrongdoing and says he fears being extradited to the U.S. because of his WikiLeaks work. It isnt known if he faces a secret grand jury indictment in the U.S.
The sex crime allegations were made shortly after Assange and WikiLeaks became well known worldwide for releasing hundreds of thousands of pages of classified U.S. government documents.
One Swedish woman said Assange intentionally damaged a condom and pinned her down while having sex. A second woman said Assange had sex with her without a condom while she was asleep. In Sweden, having sex with an unconscious, drunk or sleeping person can lead to a rape conviction punishable by up to six years in prison.
A Swedish investigation into the crimes was launched, then dropped for lack of evidence, and then started again as prosecutors sought to question Assange about possible molestation and rape.
By then Assange was in Britain, making it harder for Swedish prosecutors to question him. They sought an international arrest warrant for him that was issued in November 2010.
Assange surrendered to police in London and was freed on bail, receiving support from a wide range of celebrities including filmmakers Oliver Stone and Michael Moore.
He then moved into the Ecuadorean Embassy in London in June 2012, putting him out of reach of British authorities.
He has remained in control of WikiLeaks, which released hacked emails relating to the Hillary Clinton campaign in the final weeks of her failed White House run.
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When Gregory Navas El Norte opened in U.S. theaters 25 years ago, immigration was less of a political hot-button issue than it is today.
Back then, the mass exodus of refugees from Central American countries such as El Salvador and Guatemala was driven as much by civil war as by economics. Californias Proposition 187 in 1994 and the pro-immigration marches of May 2006 still were years away.
But in recent months, until the global economic swoon took center stage, immigration became one of the most pressing and polarizing issues on the national agenda. That gives a renewed potency to Navas $750,000 independent movie about a Guatemalan brother and sisters harrowing odyssey to the United States -- including a memorably grueling crawl through a rat-infested tunnel -- and their struggles in adapting to their new life in Los Angeles.
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The movies quality and enduring influence is being acknowledged with this months release of a 25th anniversary edition of the film on DVD and Blu-ray by the Criterion Collection. While Nava says hes tremendously pleased by the recognition and thankful to Criterion, he sees a bittersweet dimension to his movies stature.
We made the film not to make a commercial hit but to make a film about the human tragedy of a very tragic situation that still continues to this day, says the writer-director, speaking from his Santa Fe, N.M., home. Im very, very gratified that the film is still considered to be so relevant, and it saddens me because the issues are still there.
Criterions release includes a number of bonus features: an audio commentary featuring Nava; an intriguing documentary about the making of El Norte; and a gallery of location-scouting photographs from Chiapas, Mexico.
It also includes Navas haunting black-and-white student film, The Journal of Diego Rodriguez Silva (1972), which explores the theme of forced exile that Nava would further develop in El Norte. The award-winning earlier film also provides evidence of the lyrical visual style that Nava would bring fully to bear on El Norte.
Nava refers to this style as dream realism, which he characterizes as less folkloric and cute than magic realism and more deeply engaged with tough social problems. He counts Luis Bunuels 1950 masterpiece, Los Olvidados, about Mexico Citys slum children, and Luchino Viscontis La Terra Trema as major inspirations.
Among the filmmakers crucial and risky decisions for El Norte was to shoot much of it in Spanish and indigenous Guatemalan languages as well as English. We shot in incredibly isolated and difficult locations because we wanted to get that world on the screen, Nava says. We had a very small crew of people in two Volkswagen vans.
We were young, and so we were in a way kind of insane.
El Norte came about, in part, through the confluence of two trends in the early 1980s. One was the increasing public attention paid to the effects of the Cold War between the United States and the former Soviet Union in places like Latin America and Africa.
As novelist and Times columnist Hector Tobar points out in an essay in a program booklet accompanying the Criterion release, in the early 1980s Hollywood produced a handful of films examining these conflicts, such as Missing, Under Fire and Salvador. But their protagonists typically were non-Latinos. El Norte broke from this pattern by making the young siblings played by Mexican actors Zaide Silvia Gutierrez and David Villalpando the center of the action.
Another factor in El Nortes success was the rise of a new wave of U.S. independent filmmakers. Nava was one of several young independent directors, such as Spike Lee, Jim Jarmusch, John Sayles and David Lynch, who, Nava says, felt there was a need at that time to deal with different sorts of subject matter, different things the Hollywood film was not dealing with.
As Thomas says in the Criterion documentary, El Norte was able to attract both the non-Latino I go to art movies crowd and the Latino This is a film about me crowd.
Throughout his subsequent career, Nava, a San Diego native who has many relatives in Tijuana, has continued to explore aspects of the immigrant experience, in 1995s Mi Familia, 2006s Bordertown and other movies. And hes working on another film, Gates of Eden, that will update those themes to the present.
You need a film to help you on a human level to deal with the changes that youre seeing. Thats true for Hispanics and for non-Hispanics.
reed.johnson@latimes.com
Yasser Mahmoud carried a white flag, along with a small supply of rice, bread and water, as he returned to this city under siege.
The 35-year-old photographer had talked with friends whod fled to displaced persons camps, and he found their stories of long lines for food and supplies alarming.
If you need to do anything, you have to wait in a line, he said of the camps, which have expanded and multiplied since troops entered the city last week.
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So as Mosul empties more than 49,000 have fled the city of 1.2 million since the offensive began last month another stream of people skirt the gunfire, mortar blasts and suicide attacks as they trudge to neighboring villages for supplies and medicine, then wade back into the mayhem, carrying white flags and shopping bags as they head home.
Staying is risky. Islamic State militants have executed 40 civilians in the city, hanging victims bodies on electrical poles, according to the United Nations. The army has advanced to several neighborhoods beyond Zahra in eastern Mosul, but only moved forward about half a mile this weekend, according to special forces commanders.
A mass grave recently discovered by Iraqi troops south of the city contained more than 100 bodies, one of several Islamic State killing grounds, U.N. spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani said at a briefing in Geneva last week.
Shamdasani said militants are reportedly stockpiling large amounts of ammonia and sulfur in the city, placing them among civilians for possible use as chemical weapons. Attackers with explosive belts are being deployed in the alleyways of Old Mosul, she said, and women have been abducted and distributed to fighters or told they will be used to accompany militant convoys.
Mosul taxi driver Abdul Monhan Faris, 26, was in his garage having breakfast Thursday when a mortar struck, killing him. Faraz Munther helped soldiers remove his friends body from Zahra.
Our neighborhood is free, but we have mortars coming from Qadisiya and Tahrir, he said, referring to adjacent areas of eastern Mosul.
1 / 59 Menar Hassan, age 8, cries as doctors try to doctor her wounds after a suicide truck bombing. Her father died at the scene and had to be left in the rubble. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 2 / 59 Capt. Osama Fuad Rauf, 33, center, and Maj. Mohammed Hassan Abdullah, left, 35, treat a soldier who was wounded in the fight against Islamic State near Mosul. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 3 / 59 Wounded soldiers and civilians are carried into a field hospital. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 4 / 59 Capt. Osama Fuad Rauf works on a patient as others hold a cellphone for additional light at the Iraqi armys 9th Armored Division medical clinic. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 5 / 59 Wafa Abdel Raza, 39, holds her son Mahmoud Setar, 4, as the doctors give him oxygen and and fluids. The boys head was badly injured when a truck bomb exploded near their home. We were sleeping in the house," said Raza. The army was close to us and we made food for them. They were waiting behind the house and a suicide car came. Her son recovered as the night progressed. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 6 / 59 Maj. Gen. Raad Mohssan Dakhel stitches up a soldiers face after he was injured by a suicide bomb explosion. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 7 / 59 Murtada Abdul Amir, right, was struck in the shoulder by the same bullet that hit his friend Muaz Hameed Hussein, left. Capt. Osama Fuad Rauf checks Husseins status. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 8 / 59 Civilians are taken to Irbil hospital. The man at right was taken into custody on suspicion of being an Islamic State fighter. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 9 / 59 SWAT team member Hussein Ali, 21, sits beside his comrade Bassem Bilal, who was badly injured in a suicide car bombing. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 10 / 59 Maj. Gen. Raad Mohssan Dakhel treats a soldier hit by shrapnel from a car bomb. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 11 / 59 At the Iraqi Armys 9th Armored Division medical clinic, set up in a private home, doctors including Capt. Osama Fuad Rauf, center, gather around the body of a deceased soldier before he is taken to Irbil and on to Baghdad. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 12 / 59 A woman looks out of a dump truck as it arrives at a U.N. campcarrying more than 50 other women and children fleeing the fightingin Mosul. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 13 / 59 Waheed Ahmed Hussein hugs his mother Sada Muslat, 71, on the day he was was reunited with his parents after a two-year separationwhile they lived in an Islamic State-held area. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 14 / 59 A truckload of people fleeing fighting in the Mosul area arrives at a United Nations camp. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 15 / 59 People fleeing violence in Mosul and the surrounding areaarrive at the U.N.'s Camp Hassansham. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 16 / 59 Waheed Ahmed Hussein, right, greets his relative Adris Mohammed through a fense at Camp Hassansham. They hadnt seen each other in two years sinceIslamic State took control of Mosul and the surrounding area. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 17 / 59 In the town of Salhiya, members of the Iraqi Army and Iraqi police detain and question men who were coming from the direction of Mosul. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 18 / 59 Members of the Iraqi Army and Iraqi police detain suspects in the village of Salhiya, Iraq, who were coming from the direction of Mosul. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 19 / 59 Members of the Iraqi Army and Iraqi police patrol the village of Salhiya. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 20 / 59 A man flying a white flag with his rear window shattered, is stopped on the road from Salhiya to Qayarrah. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 21 / 59 On the outskirts of the village of Al Hud, members of the Iraqi Army visit an area where locals say ISIS executed four or five Peshmerga in recent months. Soldiers said another grave site containing more bodies was in the area but was too dangerous to access due to mines. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 22 / 59 Some of the several hundred civilians who made their way through and out of Gogjali, Iraq, after the Iraqi army retook control of the district in Mosul. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 23 / 59 Iraqi troops patrol Gogjali. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 24 / 59 Iraqi special forces Lt. Col Ali Hussein Fadil and his men continue to clear the Gogjali district. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 25 / 59 Iraqi forces patrol the Gogjali district of Mosul a day after it was liberated from Islamic State. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 26 / 59 Iraqi special forces continue to clear homes in Gogjali on Nov. 2, 2016, after the area was liberated. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 27 / 59 A girl waves a white flag as she and her family leave Gogjali. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 28 / 59 Families flee Gogjali after the area was liberated. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 29 / 59 With no place to sleep, a family rests inside an empty store in Mosuls Gogjali district, where Iraqi forces defeated Islamic State the previous day. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 30 / 59 Islamic State posters that were hung in a mosque in the Gogjali district of Mosul, Iraq, are burned the day after the area was liberated from Islamic State control. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 31 / 59 Popular mobilization units are helping to clear villages southwest of Mosul, Iraq. On Sunday, they launched mortar rounds a little more than a mile from Islamic State fighters who continued to resist their advance on the city. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 32 / 59 TAL AL-ZAQAA, IRAQ--OCT. 31, 2016--Shiite militia chant before going into battle as they fight alongside Iraq Army forces as they fight ISIS. They launch mortars less than two kilometers from ISIS fighters who continue to resist their advance. (Carolyn Cole/Los Angeles Times) (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 33 / 59 Militias known as popular mobilization units fighting near Mosul are made up mostly of Shiite Muslims. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 34 / 59 Militiamennear the village ofZarqastand by as mortars are launched at Islamic State fighters near Mosul. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 35 / 59 An Iraqi special forces soldier rides in a Humvee with a Shiite religious banner flying behind while moving through recently captured territory on the eastern front inthe fight for Mosul on Oct. 28, 2016. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 36 / 59 An Iraqi government Humvee window cracked by Islamic State fire on the eastern front in fight for Mosul. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 37 / 59 Lt. Col. Ali Hussein Fadil, center,commands an Iraqi special forces unit in the fight to retake the city of Mosul, including 28-year-old Waleed Abdel Nabi, left. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 38 / 59 Waleed Abdel Nabi, afather of four, moves through the town of Bartella by Humvee. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 39 / 59 Waleed Abdel Nabi, right, and a fellow Iraqi special force fighter in the town of Bartella. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 40 / 59 Waleed Abdel Nabi, 28, clears what appear to be abandoned homes in the advance toward Mosul. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 41 / 59 An Islamic State tunnel entrance found in Bartella by Iraqi special forces. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 42 / 59 Iraqi forces patrol in a Humvee east of Mosul as they wait for the next phase of the battle to retakethe city from Islamic State. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 43 / 59 The remains of a burned car. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 44 / 59 Sienna Moqtar and her daughter decorate her brothers grave with rocks. He died last week in the final days of Islamic State in Qayyarah. The bodies of two infant nephews are buried at right. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 45 / 59 Ibrahim Atea Ahmed, left, and Daham Ahmed survived the Islamic State attack, but their town was left in bad shape. Oil fires continue to burn, set by militants as cover from air attacks. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 46 / 59 Iraqi soldiers head for the front line. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 47 / 59 In the village of Faziliya, recently liberated from Islamic State control, Abdul Gafur, 38, embraces his brother Mohammad Abdul Gafur, 40, after not seeing him for more than two years. Peshmerga forces recaptured the village and escorted Abdul to visit his brother. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 48 / 59 A woman rummages through garbage under smoke-filled skies in the town of Qayyarah. The residents of Qayyarah were liberated from Islamic State forces, but left with destruction and contamination from burning oil wells. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 49 / 59 Residents of Qayyarah wait for food and water to be handed out, but very little was distributed. The water in town is not fit to drink. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 50 / 59 Iraqi soldiers now control the town of Qayyarah, where bombing destroyed many shops. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 51 / 59 An Iraqi special forces member notes the entrance to a tunnel dug by Islamic State forces in the town of Bartella. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 52 / 59 Bisha Khalil, 60, left, welcomes home her son Zihad Farhan, not shown, to the village of Hurriya, where fighting between Islamic State and Iraqi forces caused many to flee about three months ago. The homecoming was dampened by the kidnapping of Khalils 18-year-old son, Ibrahim Farhan, by Islamic State militants a week earlier. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 53 / 59 Iraqis line up as they return to homesin the villages near Qayyarrah. Many fled their homes three months earlier when government forces battled Islamic State fighters. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 54 / 59 Children play in a wrecked car in the village of Hurriya, where fighting between Islamic State and Iraqi forces caused many families to leave. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 55 / 59 As many Iraqis return home, others are fleeing the fighting in villages surrounding Mosul. At a camp for the displaced, about 3,000 people arrived in a week, but many more are expected as the fight for Mosul continues. New arrivals line up for food supplies, provide by the World Food Program. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 56 / 59 An Iraqi boy, newly arrived at a camp for the displaced, carries food provided by the World Food Program. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 57 / 59 Soldiers drive through the town of Qayyarah, heavily damaged in the fighting in August and again this month as Islamic State was driven out of town. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 58 / 59 Batul Khalil, 60, is having breathing problems with all of the smoke and chemicals in the air in her town of Qayyarah. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) 59 / 59 A man leads his cow to find feed in the village of Hurriya, where fighting between Islamic State and Iraqi forces over the last months has left many animals malnourished or dead. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)
Yasser Mahmoud was among those unwilling or unable to abandon their homes in the face of such perilous urban warfare.
Two weeks ago, Islamic State fighters attacked his house to the west of Zahra in the early morning, breaking down the door, searching his photo studio, raiding the refrigerator and camping out. When they left, Mahmoud went into hiding in Zahra, leaving behind his wife and two children, ages 10 and 6.
His wife doesnt have a cellphone or Internet access both banned by Islamic State so Mahmoud put aside any thought of fleeing. Instead, he waits.
I still dont know anything about my family, he said. If I did, I might go.
Ahmed Hassan and his friends also joined the risky caravan to a grocery store from eastern Mosul. Bearded but wearing Reebok track pants and Nike sweatshirts outlawed brands on the streets of Mosul under Islamic State they returned home with a single jar of tahini, all they could find on the bare market shelves.
Despite food shortages in the city, Hassan, 30, was reluctant to flee with his three children, ages 3, 2 and 1.
I prefer to die here in my home. Hosam Gadban
Iraqi civilians who choose to stay in Mosul.
I dont want to take my family to the camps, he said. They wont be able to stand it.
But if the violence continues, he said, they may reconsider.
Its been 11 days since our neighborhood was freed, and theyre still mortaring, said Hishan Mohammed, 24, a local barber.
The mortar and sniper attacks have shaken the already-chaotic lives of those who live in Mosul. Shops and street markets were still shuttered in Zahra on Saturday. But many left their gated row houses with children in tow to visit neighbors and shop in nearby villages.
Hosam Gadban, 35, left the city with his six children for two days last week, squatting in an abandoned home just east of the city in the village of Gogjali. But without electricity or running water, Gadban said it was horrible. He cant imagine all of them living in a tent and has no intention of leaving, even after their front window was struck by bullets, their house hit by mortar rounds Saturday.
I prefer to die here in my home, he said.
His 11-year-old daughter, Iman Gadban, wanted to leave.
Im scared. I want to go to a safe place, she said.
Faraj Saraj, 33, caught a ride out of eastern Mosul in a Humvee, in search of medicine with his 10-year-old daughter, Nasreen. She had been sick to her stomach, a frequent problem since Islamic State stopped treating the tap water, he said.
Faraj Saraj and his daughter Nasreen, 10, plan to go back to their homes after getting medicine at an Iraqi army field clinic. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times )
The sheep trader found help at an Iraqi army field clinic at the edge of Mosul. Soldiers greeted Nasreen, handing her medicine that she clutched close to her pink plaid dress.
Other families passed on their way out of the city. But Saraj said he was not ready to give up on Mosul.
We are worried about going to the camps, he said. Its been overcrowded. It will be a while before they let us back in.
If they did leave, he said, it would be difficult to get permission to return to Mosul once their neighborhood near Zahra is freed.
And so, as gunfire crackled, he led his ill daughter back around a dirt barrier at the edge of the city on the treacherous trek home.
Iraqi troops try to help civilians who want to stay and those bent on leaving, Lt. Col. Mohammed Tamimi said from his command post in an abandoned house in Zahra. They help transport those fleeing, but also ensure those staying have ample food and water, he said.
We are not forcing people to stay, but if they want help, we are offering it, he said.
Other commanders said the presence of civilians in embattled neighborhoods has complicated the fight to wrestle Mosul from Islamic State.
While some residents pass along helpful information to the troops , others aid and shelter the militants, said Lt. Col. Ali Hussein Fadil.
Some families will open their doors for fighters to move, he said. One woman was seen baking bread on the roof of a house this week as Islamic State snipers inside her home fired at the army.
Because of the civilians, our advances slowed, said Capt. Mohammed Ibrahim, hovering near patients at the field clinic.
A small crowd of families who had fled were herded into a nearby abandoned house to await transport to a camp for the displaced. Some said they feared being imprisoned at the camps, where the newly arrived are screened and kept behind barbed wire fences.
Women and children who had just escaped the violence inside Mosul, by walking out, rest in a house before being transported to a displaced persons camp near Erbil, Iraq. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times )
Samir Sabri had never left Mosul before his grocery run last week.
Two hours later, he and a friend returned carrying plastic bags of chicken, rice, tomatoes and cigarettes forbidden under Islamic State.
Our families are there, so we are going back, said Sabri, 36, who works at a laundry.
Fleeing their neighborhood near Zahra was not an option, said Hassan Mohammed, 36.
Where would we go? he wondered
They had already been displaced within the city.
We left our houses and went to houses where the army told us to stay. But we are not going to the camps, Sabri said. He said they will wait for the army to free the city. Then they hope to return home.
Some friends with white flags waved from across the dirt road. The pair joined them on their walk back to the city as gunfire rattled and mortar shells landed ahead of them, a column of dark smoke filling the sky.
An Iraqi soldier stopped them.
Where are you going? he said.
One of the men pointed toward the smoke.
OK, the soldier said. God be with you.
molly.hennessy-fiske@latimes.com
Twitter: @mollyhf
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An Israeli Cabinet panel voted Sunday to endorse a piece of legislation that would silence mosque loudspeakers that broadcast the call to prayer, kicking up charges of discrimination from the countrys Arab minority.
The vote by the Cabinet panel on Sunday means the legislation will be introduced in parliament as a bill backed by the entire coalition improving its chances for final passage.
Dubbed the muezzin bill by the local press, the proposal bars any place of worship including churches and synagogues from using loudspeakers. Politicians and legal experts say its aim is to target mosques, especially in mixed Arab-Jewish cities where some Jewish Israelis complain about predawn calls to prayer from Muslim houses of worship. Arab Israelis make up about 20% of the countrys population; 83% of that minority is Muslim, according to Israels Central Bureau of Statistics.
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Legislators in Israels right-wing government have unsuccessfully tried to advance the legislation in previous years. On Sunday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lent it his support for the first time.
Israel is a country that respects freedom of worship for all religions, Netanyahu told his Cabinet on Sunday several hours before the law was approved. Israel is also obligated to protect those who are suffering from excessive noise of loudspeakers. This is what is done in Europe and this is what is done in some places in the Muslim world.
Other countries have also seen legal challenges to the call to prayer. In India, the high volume level from mosque loudspeakers prompted a court petition to force imams to lower the sound; in Egypt, the government has tried to force Cairo mosques to transmit a standardized muezzin call provided by the central government, in response to complaints about the cacophony of calls from various mosques.
Motti Yogev, a member of the nationalist religious Jewish Home party who co-sponsored the bill, told Israel Radio that Muslim prayer authorities should send text messages or use mobile apps as a substitute. He also argued that the use of loudspeakers disturbed Muslims as well Jews.
But leaders of Israels Arab minority see the bill as an effort to infringe on their rights to freedom of worship and vowed the refuse to cooperate with the law if it is passed.
This is a racist and outrageous law. The muezzin exists since before the establishment state. Its part of our faith and religion. Why are they suddenly today complaining about the noise? said Sheikh Kamel Rayan, the head of the southern branch of the Islamic Movement in Israel, who predicted that Islamic officials and clerics wouldnt comply with the law.
We have no problem to talk about this through dialogue and negotiations, but not through a coercive law.
Ayman Odeh, the leader of the Joint List party, which represents Israels Arab minority, called the bill an example of religious persecution in an interview with the Israeli website Walla News. The government is promoting militancy, he said.
In a legal opinion submitted to the government opposing the legislation, the Israel Democracy Institute, a nonpartisan think tank, argued that the law is also meant to stifle nationalist political messages from mosque loudspeakers. In addition to injuring freedom of religion, the proposal is liable to stir up bitterness among the Muslim populace, the opinion said.
Separately, the same Cabinet panel also approved a controversial proposal that would allow the government to retroactively legalize unauthorized Israeli settlement outposts.
The bill was backed by pro-settler parties in the coalition, who are seeking to find a way to shield unauthorized outposts from recent Israeli high court rulings ordering the government to raze Israeli buildings built illegally on land owned by Palestinians.
The settlement bill was opposed by the Israeli attorney general, who warned that it would be difficult to defend against a court challenge. The move is also likely to rankle officials in the outgoing U.S. administration, who are concerned it will expand the footprint of Israeli settlements in a way that will make it impossible to create a contiguous Palestinian state in the West Bank.
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An incubator for entrepreneurial ventures is part of a Chilean government drive to make it easier to do business. Already its finding success.
Multinational companies are increasingly looking to sell their Venezuelan operations to local players as the government struggles with its economy and debt load. By Robert Shaw
Finance Minister Alfredo Thorne says the government plans to issue next week the first in a series of decrees to accelerate infrastructure investments and stimulate economic growth
A plaintiff in Northampton County Court blames the Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem for an alcohol-fueled beating he inflicted on his ex-fiancee that left her with brain damage and sent him to prison for at least two years.
An attorney for Nicholas Mullins says the casino had a duty to withhold free alcoholic drinks from him the night he beat Caitlin Shields, tried to suffocate her with a pillow and sent her to St. Luke's University Hospital.
Shields wound up covered in bruises and wearing a neck brace, but the 31-year-old Lock Haven, Pa., man is the one who suffered the most from the consequences of that night, according to his attorney, Stuart M. Niemtzow.
"His life is ruined because of this," Niemtzow told Judge Paula Roscioli.
He said Shields moved on and married someone else but Mullins can't get a job and spent time in state prison.
He's looking for compensation for lost wages and the time he spent in prison, the judge said.
Mullins lost $800 gambling on Jan 22, 2012. He argued about the losses with Shields and they fought about 5 a.m. Jan. 23 in their Sands hotel room.
"I'm going to (expletive) kill you!" Mullins shouted, according to police.
Niemtzow said the fight was mutual. He said Mullins wound up in the hospital, too, with a broken nose. He suffered a knee to the groin that night.
He pleaded guilty to aggravated assault and accepted a two- to four-year state prison sentence, but maintains Shields shares the blame for the fight.
"He ended up pleading guilty to avoid a charge of attempted murder and a 40-year exposure," Niemtzow said.
Niemtzow said during a pre-trial hearing that 17 drinks were consumed that night, but it's unclear whether all of them were consumed by Mullins or both Mullins and Shields.
He said Mullins will testify that a member of Sands' security staff was unsure whether to admit Shields to the casino due to a DUI conviction, but agreed to let her in.
"That to me is pure recklessness," Niemtzow told the judge. "They basically said 'Go ahead and have fun.'"
He said Mullins suffered from alcohol poisoning at the Pocono Downs casino four months prior to the incident. That information was part of a state database that Sands had access to and should have precluded him from being served alcohol that night, according to Niemtzow.
Attorney Kevin J. Ruane represents Sands in the case.
Jury selection occurred Monday afternoon. Opening arguments in the civil trial are expected Tuesday.
Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @RudyMillerLV. Find Easton area news on Facebook.
John Hodgman
(John Hodgman)
John Hodgman spent much of this past summer hiding in the woods.
It's not an environment where the Brooklyn-based comedian and author feels at ease. As an "aging, weird, asthmatic only-child-turned-father," he says he can barely leave the city for two days without gasping for air.
And yet he has formed a strange bond to his remote part-time homes of western Massachusetts and coastal Maine. They're the inspirations for his one-human show "Vacationland," which he'll perform at SteelStacks' Musikfest Cafe on Nov. 17.
"Maine can be a place of real beauty, but always a somewhat cruel beauty," the Massachusetts native says. "The ocean is made of hate, and the beaches offer no refuge because they are are made of sharp rocks and knives, basically. It is the perfect place to go on vacation if you believe you don't deserve pleasure in the first place, which comports pretty well with me."
Audiences might recognize Hodgman from his recurring appearances on the Jon Stewart-era "The Daily Show" as the program's resident expert and deranged millionaire, or his stint as the PC in the "Mac vs. PC" Apple commercials.
These days, he acts in television and movies, tours his storytelling-focused comedy, and hosts the "Judge John Hodgman" podcast, where he rules on disputes between real people calling in from all over the world.
He spoke with lehighvalleylive.com about the horrors of crows, what he'd be doing if his family died in a tragedy and his own march toward death. After his performance at SteelStacks, Hodgman will hang around to take local sandwich recommendations and give out weird-dad advice.
Since you first started doing your "Vacationland" show last year, you've been through another vacation season. Any new insights this summer?
I would say my experience in Maine in particular this past summer was probably the most haunted and Stephen King-y it has been. It began, unfortunately, with the unexpected death of a neighbor's pet that was hit by car, like on the day we arrived. And every day thereafter was haunted with this premonition that something equally bad or worse was going to happen, because that's what happens in Stephen King books. It was a summer I lived in almost constant fear.
Our home was attacked by a crow. It would do this morning after morning, and we didn't know why. And I just learned on an incredible trivia podcast called "No Such Thing as a Fish" that crows are intelligent creatures that can recognize faces, and hold grudges. They're the only animals that will take a disliking to a human, remember that they hate that human, and teach that hate to their offspring.
I really was led to wonder what my awful son had done to these crows, such that they were taking vengeance on him. They would chase him down the road on his bicycle. Eventually we made a thing called a scarecrow, and that worked really well until it came to life and murdered my son. That's the way the story would end if it was written by someone else.
Did you find out what your son had done to irk the crows?
No. Later, a spooky old woman in town started just talking about crows to me for no reason. And I explained what had happened. She said, "That crow probably saw its own reflection in the window." So they're very smart, but they're also very stupid, and they hate themselves.
How do your experiences in western Massachusetts differ from Maine?
I had grown up going there with my parents. When my mom passed away, my wife and I basically inherited the small cabin she had there. In that particular area, there are four colleges that fill the towns of Western Mass. with utopian older teenagers wearing various styles of dreadlocks and riding on their unicycles with their feelings and ideas. There's a lot of music culture -- every now and then you'd go to Whole Foods and run into Black Francis from the Pixies. It allows you to hold onto the illusion of being a young person, although I only age in one direction: towards death.
Maine just strips away that delusion. Young people of Maine leave as soon as they are able, leaving behind only their sad and embittered parents. Suddenly it became impossible to deny what I had become: a real grown-up, who has a terrible beard and mustache. I could announce to the world that biologically I'm all done and no longer require physical affection.
John Hodgman stars as Wendy's Car Salesman in the Broad Green Pictures release, LEARNING TO DRIVE. Credit: Broad Green Pictures
When was the last time you vacationed in a more traditional beach environment?
That would have been last February. I'm good friends -- I'd say best friends if I were not an emotionally stunted person from New England -- with a very talented person called Jonathan Coulton, who has a huge fanbase and hosts a Caribbean cruise for his fans. Because he refuses to hold it during a school vacation of any kind, I usually go by myself, on a big cruise ship with Jonathan Coulton and a bunch of lovely nerds. I live alone in an almost monastic life in a single cabin. When the boat pulls up to the beach, I wander by myself.
I remember being on one of these private islands, and deciding to ride the giant zip line. For someone who has been married for 17 years and a father for 14 years, it truly felt like this is what I would be doing if I lost my whole family in a tragedy. That was the good time I had on the beach -- this horrible, chilling ideation that I'm rehearsing for what happens when the worst happens.
So you can see that pleasure is not really for me. Warm sands and sunshine and clear, welcoming waters, my body and mind reject that immediately. That's why I'm such an aficionado of Maine.
You're starting to make clear the through-line between a performance about vacationing and your 2013 show "Ragnarok," about the end of the world.
Well, the truth is the world did not end as I predicted. My show "Ragnarok" and the book that went with it, which was the conclusion of my book series of fake trivia and alternate world history -- that world came to an end. But the actual world did not end. And consequently... I don't want to say I wanted everyone to die. But I think there was some dark part of me that hoped it would come to an end because I felt like I had done my life's work.
I had written these three books that had been such a big part of my life, I had been on "The Daily Show," I had met all my heroes, I met the president of the United States. I had to figure out what I was going to do next. The solution for me, as I started developing material to tell on stage, was to stop telling fake facts and just be honest with what I am in the world.
("Vacationland") is a show about growing up, and just owning up to who and what you are in the world. For me that's getting up on stage, and telling true stories about my actual life as a weird dad in his middle 40s.
When you performed "Ragnarok" here a few years ago, a local student newspaper headline referred to you just as "shoeless comedian."
Yes, I performed that show without shoes. There's a certain amount of horror in my comedy.
To be honest, even in "Ragnarok," there's a certain amount of sincerity in it as well. And taking my shoes off, on the one hand, caused the audience to feel discomfort, but also made myself and everyone else a little bit vulnerable. That's sort of what stand-up, and the kind of imitation storytelling/stand-up that I do, is all about: Let's be honest with each other, let's bear ourselves.
In the show after "Ragnarok" I took off all my clothes and put on a dress and performed as Ayn Rand. In this one, I don't take off any of my clothes, which I hope will increase attendance, but I do I think bear myself a little more plainly than in any other show.
Interview has been condensed and edited.
IF YOU GO
-Thursday, Nov. 17, at 8 p.m. at SteelStacks' MusikFest Cafe.
-Tickets $35-39.
-No one under the age of 12 will be admitted. Children between the ages of 13 and 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Andrew Doerfler may be reached at adoerfler@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @adoerfler or on Facebook.
UPDATE: Cops: DeSales knife attack happened during dorm party
A DeSales University student armed with a knife is charged with trying to kill two other students, according to a report.
Brendan P. McMichael, 19, of Philadelphia, was arraigned Sunday morning before District Judge Jacob Hammond on two counts of attempted homicide and four counts of aggravated assault, according to court records. He was sent to Lehigh County Jail in lieu of $500,000 bail.
The Morning Call newspaper, citing court documents, said McMichael was with another student in that student's room in Welsh Hall dormitory and holding a blue folding knife when the victim's roommate entered. The returning roommate asked why McMichael had the knife, the newspaper said.
"That's because I'm prepared to f****** kill you both tonight," the newspaper quoted McMichael as saying.
McMichael crossed the room and held the knife to the throat of the first student, wounding him, the newspaper said. When the roommate tried to disarm McMichael, the roommate suffered wounds to the hand and the abdomen, according to the report.
The knife was recovered, the newspaper said.
I love when there's attempted homicide in my old dorm building #desales Lizzie (@idclizzie) November 14, 2016
Upper Saucon Township police didn't immediately return requests seeking more information. The university didn't mention the crimes on its website, or Twitter and Facebook accounts.
DeSales officials and university Police Chief Steven A. Marshall referred inquiries to the Lehigh County District Attorney's Office.
McMichael's preliminary hearing is tentatively scheduled 2 p.m. Nov. 21.
Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyRhodin. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
A DeSales University student told two roommates he wanted to kill them as a crowd gathered for a dorm party in an adjoining room, Upper Saucon Township police said.
Brendan P. McMichael, 19, of Philadelphia, shortly before 12:46 a.m. Sunday allegedly approached two roommates while armed with a knife.
Victims Ryan Musselman and John McLaughlin live with McMichael in the same suite at DeSales' Welsh Hall, 2755 Station Ave., authorities said.
The hall is described by police as a residential dormitory with a series of rooms joined by a bathroom. Each room houses two students.
McLaughlin was speaking with McMichael in one of the rooms while the party was going on in another room of the suite, according to police.
Musselman told police he left the party and walked into the other room to see "what was going on" between McMichael and McLaughlin. Musselman told police he could see in the mirror's reflection a folding knife in McMichael's hand.
McMichael was manipulating the knife in his hand and up his sleeve, Musselman told police.
When Musselman asked McMichael why he had a knife, McMichael allegedly replied, ""That's because I'm prepared to f------ kill you both tonight."
McMichael then lunged toward McLaughlin, holding the knife to his throat and wounding his neck, police said. A struggle ensued, which led to the knife wounding Musselman in the abdomen and hand, according to police.
Musselman pulled McMichael off of McLaughlin, authorities said.
Upper Saucon Township officers recovered the folding knife at the dorm. Bloodstains were found by officers on the microwave and bathroom door, police said.
DeSales on Monday morning posted a statement on the university's Facebook page, confirming an assault and saying there is no threat to students, professors or staff.
We are sad to report that early Sunday morning at approximately 1am the DeSales University Police department in... Posted by DeSales University on Monday, November 14, 2016
McMichael is charged with two counts of attempted homicide and four counts of aggravated assault. He was arraigned before District Judge Jacob Hammond, who set bail at $50,000.
In lieu of bail, McMichael was sent to Lehigh County jail.
Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
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A heartbroken mum has said education and health services "let down" her son, who went onto take his own life.
Mina Rayat's 15-year-old son, Brandon Singh Rayat, was found hanged at home on August 9 this year.
The tragedy happened 8 months after Brandon's behaviour began to change, and he told his mum he was being bullied.
A full inquest into Brandon's death is not due to take place until January.
But Mina, of Humberstone, Leicester, wanted to speak out now - at the start of National Anti-Bullying Week - about what happened to her son to try to make sure no other young person, or parent, goes through what her family has experienced.
Mina said: "Brandon was a perfectly normal, happy teenager going about his life.
"But in April last year, all of that changed and he became completely withdrawn and then he refused to go to school at Judgemeadow Community College, in Evington.
"He told me that there was some name calling - terrible names that I don't want to repeat - and that some people were no longer speaking to him.
"I spoke to the school about him being bullied and there was an eventual meeting set up with an attendance officer.
"She said he wasn't well, and his health needed to be addressed first."
At that point, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) got involved.
In the following months, Brandon made several threats - and attempts - to take his own life, said Mina.
His behaviour at home worsened too, and he became more anxious.
Mina contacted her son's GP after Brandon told her he wanted to die, and she and her husband were struggling to cope.
Brandon was seen by psychiatric services at Leicester Royal Infirmary with symptoms of an "acute stress reaction in the context of bullying".
"At times he would be really aggressive, and then he would completely change back again," said Mina.
"He cut himself with knives and tried to overdose on tablets.
"I begged doctors to hospitalise him because it was all too much. I told them he wanted to kill himself."
But she added: "Although Brandon received help, he was never detained."
He found the strength to school last September, after the summer break.
But, Mina said: "He got into a fight and the downward spiral happened again.
"His anxiety got worse so that it became a complete phobia.
"He wouldn't leave the house in case he bumped into anyone from school.
"It was excruciating seeing him go through that. He was lonely and isolated and extremely frustrated.
"He was on anti depressants, but the dose got higher, and each time it did, he seemed to get worse in himself.
"He told the psychiatrist he had flashbacks of hanging himself.
"Two months before Brandon killed himself he started to give away all of his possessions and money. He was planning to kill himself.
"My heart breaks when I think of everything that happened."
Mina said she believes the education and health authorities should have done more to help her son.
"He was bullied at school and let down by those who should have had his welfare and best interests at heart," she said.
"He should have been hospitalised.
"When someone repeatedly tells you they want to kill themselves, isn't that supposed to happen?
"I don't think the bullying or his mental health issues were taken seriously enough by those around him.
"I feel like everyone let my beautiful boy down and I'm heartbroken.
"I want other people to know that bullying needs to be taken seriously, as does young people's mental health.
"I don't feel like that happened with Brandon.
"He was a kind person. He liked helping other people and was intelligent and achieved high marks. Brandon also had excellent attendance prior to any bullying.
"He deserved better treatment. I wouldn't want any other parent to go through what I've been through."
What the school said
James McKenna, principal of Judgemeadow Community College, said: "The whole school was extremely saddened by Brandon's death, and our thoughts remain with his family.
"It wouldn't be appropriate to comment in detail in advance of the coroner's inquest, but we can say that Judgemeadow takes the welfare of its pupils very seriously and does not tolerate bullying in any form."
What the health service said
A spokesman for Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, which runs mental health services, said: "We were deeply saddened by the tragic death of Brandon Rayat, and extend our sincere sympathies to the family once again.
"We met with the family immediately after Brandon's death, and their comments are reflected in the robust serious incident investigation which we have carried out.
"That report will be shared with the family in preparation for the inquest in January.
"It would be inappropriate for us to comment further until that inquest has taken place."In the meanwhile, we remain committed to offering appropriate support to the family at this difficult time."
If you need help
If you are struggling with bullying, you can find advice from The Diana Award Anti-Bullying Campaign support centre online, and from Childline online or by calling 0800 1111.
antibullyingpro.com/support-centre
childline.org.uk
Part of the Governments long-term plan for the economy and for addressing the fallout from the Brexit vote is to help Irish-based companies get better at exporting their goods and services.
Research shows that every additional job in the export sector supports another new job in the locally traded sector.
Enterprise Irelands Job Expansion Fund (JEF) supports this aim by offering up to 150,000 to help with the recruitment of staff at Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Irish-based firms in manufacturing or traded services embarking on an export-orientated project are eligible. Prospective employers must be in business for at least two years and demonstrate the potential to increase turnover by a minimum 350,000 over two years after the award of the grant.
They must be recruiting at least three people into full-time, non-sales positions to qualify for up to 15,000 per new employee. The new jobs must be retained for a minimum of three years from the date of last payment of the grant package.
The deadline for applications is December 5 and is open to Enterprise Ireland clients and Small and Medium-sized companies with an export focus.
Enterprise Ireland advises interested employers to consult with one of their advisers before submitting an application.
Two foreign nationals convicted of their part in a disturbance in Portlaoises Top Square in which a garda was assaulted have been given jail time, after they refused to pay compensation and complete community service.
The incident took place on January 17 this year, outside a nightclub in Top Square, Portlaoise, and involved a number of accused and plainclothes gardai.
Arising from the incident, Mark Gonda, 44 The Haven, Roscrea, was charged with assault, and threatening or abusive behaviour.
Attila Szabo,20 Ard Erin, Mountrath, was charged with threatening behaviour.
Both men contested the charge and this case was put back to September.
At the hearing, both men were convicted, and were told to pay compensation and do community service.
However when the case returned to court last week, the court heard that both men were refusing to pay compensation and refusing to do the community service.
Judge Catherine Staines imposed one month in prison on both men, with recognisance fixed in the event of an appeal.
A third accused, Norbert Orsos (35), previously pleaded guilty to threatening or abusive behaviour, and assault. He received the probation act on both charges back in April.
Laois TD Brian Stanley urged other TDs and Senators to vote against a big pay rise for themselves and instead start with decent increase for lower paid people employed by the State.
Sinn Fein put forward a motion in the Dail proposing that TD's and Senators refuse the 5,400 wage increase. The Laois SF TD said national politicians could set an example. He said lower paid public servants should be first in line for increases.
"We have a choice between giving leadership and good example and putting more money in our pockets. Those of us who have a good salary should not demand more. We should not jump the queue while low-paid public servants, many of whom depend on family income supplement, wait.
"TD's take home after tax and deductions roughly 45,000-50,000 per year. Public servants...will get an increase of roughly 1,000, while we line up and take over 5,000. While people on the minimum wage will receive an increase of 10 cent per hour in January. That is an injustice."
"Under a previous Fianna Fail Government, the minimum wage for someone working 39 hours per week was cut, but that has been restored. 10 cent per hour is an insult and should be increased.Only those on middle and low incomes should get an increase. The first in the queue should be clerical officers, manual workers in the public service and what are termed the lower grades.
Concluding Deputy Stanley said: "We need to create a society based on solidarity, not greed. What better place to start than in here? We should take the lead. There is a clear choice here for Deputies. We either want to lead by example or operate by double standards. I appeal to people across the political divide to do the right thing. The money saved, which is a modest amount, could be used for homeless services. Let us not lecture gardai, young teachers, young nurses and low-paid public service workers. Let us try to create some equality and start with it here."
Labour, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail voted down the motion and it was therefore defeated, 89 votes to 38.
Proof that austerity has not gone away emerged today in Laois where county councillors voted to increase the commercial rate on business to balance books for 2017.
Politicians refused to increase the local property tax this year but today voted to force shops and other employers to pay more to county hall.
Councillors voted by by 11 to six to the 3% increase. Fianna Fail and Fine Gael voted together - Sinn Fein, Labour and Independent councillors. Cllr Padraig Fleming, Fianna Fail, and Cllr Dave Goodwin, Fine Gael, abstained.
In advance of the vote Laois County Council's Chief Executive John Mulholland issued the stark warning to councillors as they considered what to do.
"Put simply unless Laois County Council can identify a new stream of funding or increase revenue from an existing income stream it will not be possible to present a balanced Revenue Budget for 2017.
"There is a requirement to generate additional revenue of 370,000 in order to match expenditure across all activities. Given that there will be no increase in Local Property Tax nor the Equalisation Fund it is apparent that an increase in commercial rates must be fully considered," warned the chief executive.
Commercial rates have been frozen for eight years in Laois and the manager presented figures which show that the county takes less in rates and water charges than any other council in Ireland.
He also presented the backdrop to council finances. This year Laois will have total income of 56.7 million which compares with 73 million in 2008. Council staffing has been cut by a quarter or 114 since 2008.
The manager said gross expenditure for next year is 59.2 million an increase of 4% on 2015.
More men are surviving prostate cancer than ever before thanks to huge strides in the prevention, detection and treatment of the disease.
Forty years ago the outlook for a prostate cancer patient was vastly different from today. In 1976, a little over one in three men diagnosed with prostate cancer (35%) survived the disease over five years. Today, five-year survival rates for prostate cancer in Ireland have risen to nine in ten (90.6%).
However, more needs to be done to improve survival rates, particularly for men with metastatic prostate cancer, while also working on ways to improve the lives of men surviving the disease who often suffer a reduced quality of life.
For the past nine years the Irish Cancer Society has partnered with the Movember Foundation Ireland in investing in Irish research projects which aim to tackle these issues. The Movember community across Ireland is encouraged to again raise vital life-saving funds that will mean we can continue to invest in prostate cancer research, as well as advocacy and services.
According to Professor Ray McDermott, Consultant Medical Oncologist at Tallaght and St Vincents University Hospitals, Dublin and Clinical Director with prostate cancer research initiative iPROSPECT:
The increase in survival rates for prostate cancer patients over recent decades is a testament to the work of research scientists in Ireland and across the globe. They have worked tirelessly in their battle against this disease and have saved countless lives.
But survival rates only show one side of the journey a patient with this disease goes through. For survivors, their diagnosis and treatment often impacts their physical and mental wellbeing in ways men rarely speak openly about.
Cancer research can address these impacts through studying survivors own experiences and finding ways to personalise their treatment and care. That is why investment in cancer research by the Irish Cancer Society and Movember funded through you, the public is so essential.
Movember- get involved
The Movember Foundation is the only global charity focused solely on mens health.
Its time to take actionsooner rather than later. There are three ways you can raise money this Movember:
Grow a moustache Let your lip go free for 30 days
Move take a physical activity challenge during MOVEmber
Host an event run your own fundraiser
Head to Movember.com for more information and to sign up.
Fianna Fail TD for Sligo-Leitrim Marc Mac Sharry has slammed the Housing Minister for concentrating solely on the cities in its latest rehash of the governments housing plan. Sites have been identified in Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway for new home development but theres nothing on the cards for Leitrim and the North West.
Deputy Mac Sharry commented, This is typical of this governments lack of vision and complete dismissal of the regions. This plan, which was first announced back in June, concentrates solely on the cities and leaves other urban areas, particularly in the North West, behind.
I have consistently highlighted the need for investment in this region, but time and time again Ministers have turned a blind eye. How are we to attract Foreign Direct Investment into the area when we dont have the infrastructure to support it.
Housing is one of the key factors that potential investors will look at and rents in the North West have risen by more than 6% in the past year. This rate of increase is unsustainable and will do nothing to entice new business to the region. There needs to be an overarching strategy for the North West region to address the two-tier recovery which has been perpetrated by Fine Gael over the past 5 years. Proper housing provision must be a key strand of this policy.
Unfortunately the details of this latest plan make for grim reading for anyone living in the North West with only the cities making it on to the fast track planning list. This is simply not good enough and will create major problems down the road. This government needs to wake up to the seriousness of the situation here in the North West and put a strategy in place to increase investment and employment in the region.
Speaking in the Dail today on the Social Welfare Bill, Sinn Fein TD for Sligo, Leitrim, West Cavan and South Donegal, Martin Kenny, said the JobPath system is reminiscent of the Ken Loach film I, Daniel Blake.
Deputy Kenny said: There are people in my area who have finished up on Community Employment Schemes which suited them down to the ground. They then receive the dreaded letter from JobPath, a system run by Seetec, a British company contracted by the Department of Social Protection, and find that they are barred from going on any other scheme.
I have three examples of people in my constituency who have come to me frustrated and angry about JobPath. One of them is a woman in her 60s, who has spent the last decade or more looking after elderly parents and is in poor health herself. Having been refused disability, she is now forced onto Jobseekers and is being harassed to attend training programmes on how to write CVs and how to conduct herself at interviews.
For the two year duration of the JobPath programme, she is barred from taking a place on any other training scheme or Community Employment Scheme, which would be more appropriate. This woman lives 30 miles from the Seetec office and does not drive," explained Deputy Kenny.
He cited another example of a man in his 50s. The man has a small farm of land and in receipt of Farm Assist.
"He was hoping to get onto a Community Employment Scheme which would suit him and his lifestyle and provide a service to the local community. He is now barred from this possibility and is painfully aware of the futility of participating in a course for jobs which do not exist in this locality," said Deputy Kenny.
The third example is a woman who as on a Tus scheme, helping out in the local Tidy Towns project, planting in housing estates and other such activity. She was very happy, making a constructive contribution to her community and looking forward to beginning a Community Employment Scheme. She received the letter from JobPath and now is tied to a commitment to attend the Seetec offices two mornings a week for two years. She has to provide evidence of jobs applied for and evidence of active job seeking."
Deputy Kenny said these scenarios illustrate the ludicrous nature of this JobPath programme "which in a machine-like manner takes no account of the reality of the circumstances of its victims."
Last night, I saw the film, I, Daniel Blake which depicted how a man in Britain was driven to die in despair having been harassed by such a system and I appeal to the Minister for Social Protection to take heed of the message contained in it. Is the point of JobPath to find work for people or is it to harass them into a situation where they no longer have the heart to try to claim social welfare?.
Review
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In the exhibition 'Things,' the Louvre is seeking the soul of inanimate objects
A daring and successful exhibition mixing movements and eras to look at the passions, desires and obsessions expressed in still lifes.
A LIMERICK city-based doctor has called for the restoration of pay for general practice, which he said will enhance patient care and reduce the number of people on trolleys in hospitals.
This follows comments made by HSE chief Tony OBrien, warning of the potential impact of restoring pay to workers.
In response, Monaleen doctor Emmet Kerin, president of the National Association of GPs, argued that it would alleviate the crisis in secondary care and save money.
Dr Kerin, who has a clinic on the Ennis Road, said: General Practice is at crisis point. The latest figures from the Irish Medical Council state that there are 63.1 GPs per 100,000 population, falling well below international standards of 80 GPs per 100,000.
We also know that 915 GPs are set to emigrate or retire in the next five years. In the context of the current critical shortage of GPs in this country, this should be setting off alarm bells with the HSE and Department of Health. Patients will face increasing waiting times for a consultation with their GP with potentially catastrophic outcomes for their care.
A spokesperson for the NAGP said that it believes that patients should be kept in their communities and out of hospital. If GPs, and other health and social care professionals, can deliver a high level of care at local level the number of people on trolleys can be reduced.
Dr Kerin said that cuts in the recent years have had a direct impact on emergency department overcrowding and patient waiting times. He added: Disproportionate cuts in General Practice has, and will continue to, affect secondary care. This must be addressed.
The HSE must begin to view the resourcing of GP-led primary care as an investment, improving patient care with the benefit of reducing costs in secondary care.
Recently NAGP vice-president Yvonne Williams, Adare, condemned the chronic shortage of community doctors, following the release of statistics that showed the number of Limerick GPs being below international best practice.
In a recent Medical Council of Ireland report, it states that there are 61 GPs per 100,000 people in Limerick. According to the NAGP, for a region to meet international standards, there must be 80 GPs per 100,000 people.
REGENERATIONS most expensive project to date is expected to commence its initial stages in the coming weeks.
The tendering process for the first stage of the major 40m Coonagh to Knockalisheen Road, which forms part of Coonagh-Lisnagry Northern Distributor Road, is likely to be complete by this Christmas.
A spokesperson for Limerick City and County Council said that it is likely that contractors will be on site by early 2017.
The purpose of the project is to provide significant improvement in connectivity between different areas along the northern fringe of the city.
The scheme, a key element in the regeneration programme, is expected to be a major economic driver for the Moyross area. The project will provide a new link road to Moyross, a 3km urban style dual carriageway between Coonagh roundabout and Knockalisheen Road.
The road, which is funded by the Department of Tourism, Transport and Sport will allow the locality to be promoted for economic development as improved access attracts investment to an area.
As part of the project, the Knockalisheen Road will also be upgraded with new footpaths and cycle lanes resulting in improved access to communities, increased potential for development and reduced congestion in the city centre, the spokesperson said.
It is understood that enabling works have been undertaken over the past number of weeks to prepare the site for construction.
The first stage of the Coonagh-Knockalisheen project will involve the upgrading of the entrance to Coonagh Cross Shopping Centre to dual carriageway standard; the construction of a new roundabout to replace the existing roundabout at the rear of the complex; embankment construction between the rear of the complex and the Old Cratloe Road; and fencing off for the project. The tender process will be open for six weeks, after which there will be a shortlist of contractors followed by a preferred contractor, the spokesperson said.
Sinn Fein TD Maurice Quinlivan said that there has been slow progress for this project since 2008.
It was supposed to be a key part of the regeneration programme. The idea was to open up the northside of Limerick, to get from Coonagh to Knockalisheen in a couple of minutes. It would also open up Moyross which is the largest cul de sac in Ireland.
Deputy Quinlivan said that, at best, the project will be completed by 2020, which he said is not good enough.
He said that this new road will make the area much more profitable, much more valuable. It would be good for business, good for community.
In response to Deputy Quinlivans parliamentary question on the project, Minister for Transport Shane Ross said on October 25: As regards the proposed Coonagh to Knockalisheen Road Scheme, before the main contract can commence, important advance works must be undertaken. These advance works include special ground works treatment along a section of the proposed road.
Following receipt and examination of the relevant tender documentation, approval was given by my Department to Limerick County Council in July this year to proceed to tender in respect of the Advance Works Contract. While the timeframe for the tender process is a matter for Limerick County Council, I understand from the Council that the tender will issue shortly.
LIMERICK native Tim OConnor who is involved in a number of initiatives which have raised the profile of Limerick on both a national and international level has been awarded the Limerick Person of the Month award.
Over the past four years the Killeedy native has served in many leadership roles for his native Limerick.
I love the ambition and energy and drive that is going on right now in Limerick, said Tim, who added that he is honoured and thrilled to be presented with the Limerick Person of the Month award.
It is a very great honour always to be honoured by your own people - its fantastic altogether.
Having spent 43 years away from Limerick Tim became heavily involved in a number of projects in recent years.
Michael Noonan actually asked me to get involved about four years ago. He asked me to go down and meet Conn Murray because at that stage the early planning was beginning for Limerick National City of Culture 2014, Tim explained. He became vice-chairman of Limerick National City of Culture 2014.
Tim is also vice chairman of Global Limerick Network (GLN) a new initiative whereby Limerick City and County, as the homeplace, engages with its diaspora all over the world.
In the past Tim served as chairman of Limerick Marketing company. He is also a member of Limerick Economic Forum chaired by Denis Brosnan.
You have a situation in Limerick whereby you have the private sector working very closely with the council and thats a great model, he said.
He is also chairman of the Shannon Consortium which is a collaboration - or whats called a regional cluster - of the higher education institutions in the region - the University of Limerick, Limerick Institute of Technology and Mary Immaculate College.
What has prompted him to get involved in so many groups?
I am very proud to be from Limerick. In Dublin I say, If you are looking for a place where interesting things are happening, then go to Limerick'.
Growing up, Tim was a border in St Munchins College.
After a two-year stint as a teacher, he joined the Civil Service in Dublin in 1974, moving to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in 1979.
Most of his DFA career was spent working on the Northern Ireland Peace Process. He was part of the Irish Government Negotiating Team for the Good Friday Agreement, was involved in the negotiations leading to the establishment of the new north/south structures arising from the Agreement and spent almost six years in Armagh as the inaugural joint secretary of the North/South Ministerial Council.
His foreign postings included the Embassies of Ireland in Bonn and Washington DC and from 2005-2007 he served as the Consul General of Ireland in New York, USA. He served as secretary general to President Mary McAleese at Aras an Uachtarain from 2007 to 2010.
Tim resides in Dublin but gets back to Limerick a couple of times every month.
Tims partner is Yvonne Shields, the chief executive of Irish Lights - the Lighthouse Authority of Ireland.
Tim has three children - Ciara, Barry and Aoife, and he has three grandchildren Luca, Sean and Orla. who reside in France.
LIMERICK City and County Council has entered talks with the Department of Education on where a proposed new secondary school for Monaleen/Castletroy will be situated.
It comes after Education Minister Richard Bruton revealed the Educate Together group will be running the new facility, which will cater for 600 students from 2018.
Meanwhile, the Limerick-Clare Education and Training Board (ETB) will run the other 600-student facility proposed for Mungret college.
This facility set to open next September to first years will be located on lands to the right of the current Mungret College building and the current Educate Together primary school.
Concern has been raised at whether the facility will be ready to welcome approximately 75 first year students next year.
But former Education minister Jan OSullivan who announced Limericks two new secondary schools 12 months ago believes students will be welcomed to the new Mungret school, even if they are in prefabs initially.
The secondary school will open on time. Thats one thing the department does well. If they say they will have a school open at a set date, they will open it, she said.
The Labour TD also revealed that, having contacted Limerick City and County Council with her party colleague, the Castletroy councillor Elena Secas, that talks are well advanced on the selection of land for the second school.
The information I have on this is that there has been discussion between the council and the Department of Education. A few sites were suggested which would be considered suitable. Basically, the department and the council now are engaging on what might be the best site, she told the Limerick Leader.
She also welcomed the selection of Educate Together and the LCETB as patrons, adding: I think the fact we have two different forms of patronage and they both involve more choice for parents represents a very good, positive outcome.
The selection of Educate Together represents a first in Limerick, with the city playing host to the groups first local secondary school.
Educate Together schools are unique in that children are accepted regardless of religious belief.
Decisions are sought democratically with the views of teachers, students and parents all carrying an equal weight.
Maria ODwyer, who co-chaired the campaign for an Educate Together School said: The Irish education system has been about putting square pegs in round holes, but we are trying something different. I think we have always said this is about choice. There has been a lot of misconception about what Educate Together actually is. People say it is for families with no faith. We say it is for families with no faith and all faiths.
The chief executive of the LCETB George OCallaghan said the new Mungret school will be a non designated community college, and that an information night for prospective new parents would take place within the next fortnight.
LCETB will work closely with the Department of Education and Skills in securing the temporary accommodation and ensuring that it will be in place for September 2017, he said.
THE MAN behind restoring a significantly damaged 151-year-old crucifix in Limerick has said that he is confident that it will be returned to its home before the start of Christmas celebrations.
Last Monday, a man entered the Redemptorist Church, on Mount St Alphonsus, South Circular Road, and did extensive damage to the historical crucifix that has been in the church since 1865.
Within minutes of the incident, gardai were called to the scene. The following morning, Randel Hodkinson, of Hodkinson and Sons Ecclesiastical Decorators, removed the holy item to his Henry Street studio.
Mr Hodkinson said that the Redemptorist Church is anxious to have it returned before Christmas.
I will try and piece it together as much as possible, from the remains of the pieces that came off it. But I will probably have to build it up and cast new pieces for it as well. The main bars that strengthen it are still in place, so it will be a matter of working plaster around it to make up the legs again.
Other than the recent incident, the crucifix has never been damaged before, and has been kept in great condition.
Its practically kept in its original condition. Its a shame, really, that this happened to it.
The crucifix was built by the famous Mayer of Munich in the 1860s, and is made of plaster of Paris, built in sections, supported by an interior metal frame, explained Mr Hodkinson, whose family business has been operating out of Limerick city for close to 150 years.
Rector Fr Seamus Enright told the Leader that it was an unfortunate incident.
The crucifix has been in the church since 1865 and is an important part of the spiritual and cultural patrimony of Mount St Alphonsus.
"We are grateful to those who have been in contact with expressions of sympathy and offers of financial support. People can show their support by praying for all involved and, if they wish, by donating to the Redemptorist Christmas Hamper Appeal.
TALKS are expected to take place later this week in an effort to resolve an impasse which has delayed the opening of a new dialysis unit at University Hospital Limerick.
The state-of-the-art 24-bay-unit is located on the first floor of the new extension block at UHL on the same floor as the hospitals new intensive care unit.
The unit did not open as planned on Monday after concerns were expressed by members of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation.
Mary Fogarty, industrial relations officer with the INMO, says members have concerns in relation to the future funding of the unit.
We were told quite categorically that the unit would not open until they received their Letter of Determination from the HSE that is the letter from the Department of Health that would detail all the funding because it is much bigger unit, it requires much more staff but they havent received that, she said.
Colette Cowan, chief executive of the UL Hospitals Group, says she hopes a resolution to the impasse can been found quickly.
We would like the unit to open in a timely manner, these patients are like family. They come into the hospital three times a week for dialysis treatment. They deserved it, the unit they are in is very small and I think we should be able to negotiate and get it open as quick as possible, she said adding that the delay could have an impact on the opening of the hospitals new emergency department.
I need it open in the coming days as we need to progress the new emergency department part of that is the old dialysis unit has to be knocked down, she said adding that builders had been due to begin the demolition work this week.
In relation to the future funding of new unit, Ms Cowan says she is not is a position to give any guarantees.
At the moment they need a guarantee from us we cant give that guarantee other then that we are going in move in there and use the (new) facility but we cant pre-empt the next five years, she said adding that the HSEs national service plan will determine the level of future-proofing for the new unit.
While the matter has been referred to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC), Mary Fogarty says INMO members have concerns other than the future-funding of the unit.
These relate to the allocation of car parking spaces for staff who are rostered on a late shift as well as patent safety.
For example the service will no longer be there overnight it will revert back to finishing at 11.30 at night if they have no beds (in the main hospital) where do the patients go? she said accusing management of engaging with the INMO in a haphazard manner.
Our members are at the end of their tether, they want this unit to be open and they want it to be safe and they want to have all the staffing and issues in place, she said.
Colette Cowan says the delay in opening the new unit has caused a lot of disharmony and upset but that she hopes matters can be resolved once talks get underway between the parties.
A date for talks at WRC had not been confirmed.
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What we usually refer to as the New Dems, the New Democrat Coalition, is, even more than the Blue Dogs, the Republican Wing of the Democratic Party. They're getting ready to elect their next leader and the mailer below is from a slick 3-pager sent to newly-elected New Dems members from Jared Polis-- except he accidentally sent it to a Berniecrat who immediately forwarded it to me, along with Jared's message. Bear in mind when you read it that my friend who it was sent to would sooner decimate the New Democratic Coalition that join it:
I hope you are having a nice weekend after what has been a difficult week. Congrats on you victory, a small ray of sunlight on a cloudy day. We are so thrilled to have you join our NewDem Coalition!
I am now announcing my intent to run for Chair of the New Democrat Coalition. Please take a moment to look at the attached prospectus outlining my qualifications and my vision for the future of the Coalition.
Thank you for your consideration. Please do not hesitate to follow up with any questions or thoughts. I hope that I can count on your support.
Oh, and by the way, Jared is the second richest Democrat in the House-- after fellow New Dem John Delaney . Last year his net worth was $92.6 million, up smartly from $88.6 from the year before. He's considered a dot.com wunderkind on Capitol Hill, having sold his online greeting card (BlueMountain.com) and floral delivery (ProFlowers.com) businesses. He's a big Uber investor.
A member of Congress warned me today that Democrats will vote on leadership races Thursday "so that no one has any time to put together any challenges based on the election failure." He was't happy that the sleaze-bag former head of the New Dems, Queens Democratic boss Joe Crowley-- a Wall Street plant inside the caucus-- is running for the caucus chairman's job. "He expects to be the Leader after Pelosi and Hoyer are gone. The only alternative seems to be Wasserman Schultz. What would your activist friends that about that choice?"
Wall Street Journal emphasized the Yesterday theemphasized the Democratic Party identity crisis as exemplified by the explosive battle over the chair of the DNC. So far Progressive Caucus co-chair Keith Ellison, pharmaceutical lobbyist Howard Dean, New Hampshire Democratic Party Chairman and DNC vice chair Raymond Buckley, lobbyist and South Carolina Chairman Jaime Harrison and centrist former Governor Martin O'Malley are running. There are even rumors that the much-reviled and serially failed Steve Israel is campaigning for the job. Ellison seems like the perfect candidate except for one glaring blemish-- support from the worst Democrat of all: Chuck Schumer-- and the fact that many people are saying there is a need for a full-time chairman, not something I recall anyone saying when Wasserman Schultz was given the job.
I gather the House leadership wants to get the votes out of the way quicker than usual-- before the members, just back in DC-- can start grumbling among themselves and plotting to change the spectacularly failed leadership itself. So Nancy, Hoyer, Clyburn stay and they move Crowley up to Caucus head and then let Barbara Lee and Linda Sanchez fight it out for Caucus vice chair.
In this series of articles, Live Science turns the spotlight onto some of YouTube's most popular science channels. Their creators weave together graphics, footage, animation and sound design in videos that can be as whimsical as they are informative, employing a range of techniques and styles. Yet all of them all share a general curiosity and enthusiasm for the unexpected and fascinating science stories that exist in the world around us.
YouTube's 'The Brain Scoop': Meet the 'Chief Curiosity Correspondent' for the Field Museum
From mounts of massive T. rex skeletons, to dioramas of animals in recreated habitats, to exhibits describing our evolutionary ancestry and our modern microbial partnerships, natural history museums present glimpses of Earth's distant past and explanations of its current ecosystems and inhabitants.
These museums open windows into remote parts of the world, offering close-up views of what we see every day and of many things that we overlook. Museum exhibits reveal the delicate balance of life and describe the connections between all creatures, living and extinct.
However, for all the wonders displayed in museums, far more remains hidden from public view.
Vast collections of fossils, objects and preserved specimens are housed in storage and studied by teams of scientists, whose work is also largely invisible to the public. But on YouTube's "The Brain Scoop," host and co-creator Emily Graslie the "Chief Curiosity Correspondent" at the Field Museum of Natural History (FMNH) in Chicago uses video to take viewers behind the scenes at FMNH, bringing its secret treasures and scientific research and researchers to light.
Graslie investigates something fishy with Caleb McMahan, Field Museum ichthyologist and Collection Manager of Fishes. (Image credit: The Brain Scoop)
And that covers a lot of ground both inside the museum and in the field with its experts. Episodes include a sit-down with so-called "death rocks," a tour of the FMNH insect collection, an expedition to find one of the world's rarest plants, and a look at how scientists learn about Earth's environmental history from bird vomit.
From art intern to volunteer curator
Graslie first gravitated toward natural history collections while studying for a fine arts degree at the University of Montana. She interned at the university's Phillip L. Wright Zoological Museum during her senior year, conducting an independent study in scientific illustration. After graduating in 2011, she continued working at the museum as a volunteer.
"I started learning more about processes and specimens cataloguing them, doing specimen prep in the lab," Graslie told Live Science. "The art internship started to blossom into a volunteer curatorial position."
Graslie also began blogging on Tumblr about her work at the museum. Collaborations with YouTube creator Hank Green led to the launch of "The Brain Scoop" in January 2013.
"The university wasn't involved I was making the videos on my own time, for my own enjoyment and for the pleasure of sharing this stuff with other people," Graslie said. "So there wasn't a lot of direction. We didn't know what we wanted to be, but we had the freedom to experiment. That was hugely important for the growth of the channel, it allowed us to do a lot of creative things."
"The Brain Scoop" meets the Field Museum
When Graslie visited Chicago a few months after "The Brain Scoop" debuted, she was offered the opportunity for a new collaboration bringing the show to the FMNH, beginning in July 2013.
Graslie explores bat caves in Kenya with Bruce Patterson, the Field Museum's Curator of Mammals, in 2014. (Image credit: Greg Mercer/The Field Museum)
"All of a sudden, we had access to the best resources which were the collections and the experts who worked in the collections," Graslie explained.
"That was something we didn't have in Montana we had freedom and a lot of creativity and a lot of dead animals, but no context for how those specimens were being used. Coming to the Field Museum lent a lot of credibility to the show."
Graslie works closely with FMNH scientists to identify science topics and define story arcs, and researchers quickly discovered that "The Brain Scoop" could bring their work to hundreds of thousands of YouTube viewers. Some episodes are deep dives into one story, such as the identification of a bizarre fossil known as the "Tully Monster," while the series "Natural News" offers shorter weekly updates on the museum's ongoing scientific studies.
For Graslie, making "The Brain Scoop" also means learning something new and surprising with every episode, she told Live Science. One video in particular, about how scientists describe species, provided her with an unexpected wake-up call about the term "species" itself, which she discovered to be far less clearly defined than she had thought.
"Charles Darwin titled his book 'On the Origin of Species,' and within that book he didn't explicitly define what a species is! The more I started looking into this, the more I saw that there isn't one completely agreed-upon definition for a species," Graslie said.
"Entomologists will look at different criteria to name a species of beetle or fly than paleontologists will look at when trying to describe a new species of dinosaur. There are around 26 different accepted species concepts in taxonomy it's one of the most contentious topics in the field of biology."
Investigating how researchers define and organize species also inspired Graslie to explore the question using a more whimsical approach by asking a group of FMNH scientists to apply taxonomic interpretations to candy.
"I got 12 different kinds of candy and four scientists who work on different kinds of organisms, and had them organize the candy based on what they believed to be a logical species concept or criteria," Graslie explained. "I didn't tell them ahead of time what we'd be doing, but they all went along with it and had a lot of fun."
One scientist Margaret Thayer, a curator emeritus of insects even performed an impromptu dissection, whipping out a pocketknife and cutting into a candy sample, which she then tasted to confirm the composition of its "guts."
"I don't usually do use this test for specimens," Thayer told Graslie.
And with the breadth of the FMNH collection and researchers still to explore, Graslie doesn't expect to run out of inspiration or video subjects anytime soon.
"As a content creator, if you're in a museum and you find yourself getting bored, I don't know what to tell you," she told Live Science. "The rabbit hole gets deeper, the longer you look into it."
Got a favorite science channel on YouTube that you think we should feature? Tell us about it in the comments or on Twitter and Facebook!
Original article on Live Science.
Near the epicenter of the 7.8-magnitude earthquake in New Zealand, a train track and state highway can be seen destroyed by landslide slips.
The magnitude-7.8 earthquake that rattled New Zealand early Monday morning local time (Sunday morning EST), killing at least two people and stranding many others in the region, also had a strange side effect: eerie blue and green flashes of light in the sky during the shaking.
Only in recent years have seismologists taken reports of these so-called earthquake lights seriously. It turns out that researchers still don't fully understand the phenomenon, but they do have a few clues about where and why it occurs.
The strange light shows which may appear as sizzling flames emanating from the ground, flashes of lightning, ghostly globes or blue and green shimmers usually occur at rifts where huge chunks of Earth are pulling away from each other, according to a 2014 study published in the journal Seismological Research Letters. [Elves, Sprites & Blue Jets: Earth's Weirdest Lightning]
Also in 2014, researchers showed that shifting grains surrounding a fault may generate an electrical charge, though exactly why this happens is poorly understood.
Unexplained phenomenon
Observers have documented shimmering earthquake lights more than 60 times over the past several centuries. In 2009, for instance, before a major earthquake struck L'Aquila, Italy, bystanders reported what looked like flames sizzling from the sidewalk, and in Canada's Yukon Territory in the 1970s, ghostly green orbs that were floating in the sky were initially thought to be UFOs but were later determined to be tied to a nearby quake. But until recently, many researchers discounted these reports as hearsay.
"Earthquake lights are totally underreported," Friedemann Freund, a crystallographer (someone who studies the atomic structure of materials) at NASA's Ames Research Center in Mountain View, California, and San Jose State University, previously told Live Science. "They are often things that happen within a fraction of a second."
But with the widespread availability of smartphones, these strange events are now being documented more frequently.
In 2014, Freund and his colleagues showed that 97 percent of earthquake lights documented since the 1600s occurred at faults that were within continental plates, rather than at subduction zones, where one plate is diving beneath another. They found that 85 percent of the incidents occurred where Earth buckles and creates a steep ravine or drop in the Earth. This fissure allows magmatic rocks that originate deep belowground to gradually migrate up toward the surface, where they discharge energy. Because of how the atoms in these rocks are organized, they may generate an electrical charge more easily, flow upward to the surface, ionize the air and generate the light show, the researchers speculated.
In this scenario, earthquake lights may not even be tied to earthquakes. Changes in stress at a fault can occur either due to a catastrophic rupture or because of a slower release over days, and both forms could generate an electrical charge that ionizes the air, according to the research.
"Crackpot physics"
In a separate study detailed at the 2014 American Physical Society meeting in Denver, researchers filled Tupperware containers with mixtures of plastic discs, glass particles and powders, such as flour, and watched what happened as they stuck and slipped past one another. These mixtures were meant to mimic the way grains of Earth move in an earthquake zone.
The researchers found that the mixtures reliably generated high voltages when tipped, even though they could not explain why.
"Except for the fact that we cannot get these voltages to go away, I would call this 'crackpot physics,'" Troy Shinbrot, an applied physicist at Rutgers University in New Jersey, previously told Live Science. "And even as it is I wish I could hedge my bets, but the voltages are very repeatable, and we have so far failed to account for a spurious influence that might cause them."
Original article on Live Science.
An image of a patient with alopecia universalis, a condition that results in hair loss. On the left, the patient's head before treatment with the drug tofacitinib. On the right, the head after treatment.
Two patients, who each lost all of their hair 10 years ago due to a medical condition, recently regrew some of their hair after taking an arthritis drug, according to a new report of the cases.
The patients, one man and one woman, suffered from alopecia universalis, a condition in which people lose all of the hair on their entire body because their immune system attacks hair follicles. There is currently no effective treatment for the condition. The patients' doctors tried treating them with multiple other drugs, but nothing worked.
However, after the patients took the arthritis drug, called tofacitinib, every day for two months, some hair regrew on their scalp, eyebrows and under the arms, according to the report. The patients were followed for nine months while they took the drug, and they did not experience any serious side effects, the researchers said.
The researchers said in their study that they hope that these cases will prompt a study to determine whether tofacitinib is a safe and effective treatment for alopecia universalis. "Successful treatment can improve patients' lives dramatically, as it did for our patients," the researchers, from Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo, Brazil, wrote in the Nov. 15 issue of the journal Annals of Internal Medicine. [4 Common Skin Woes, and How to Fix Them]
Although the hair-loss condition is not life-threatening, it is important to develop effective treatments because the condition can have a negative effect on a patient's mental health. "Hair loss really affects your self-esteem," said Dr. Doris Day, a dermatologist at Lenox Hill Hospital, in New York, who was not involved with the study. "I have patients who are near suicidal because of hair loss," Day said.
Day also recently used tofacitinib to treat a patient with alopecia universalis, and saw similar results, she said.
But there is concern that long-term treatment with tofacitinib could cause harmful side effects, the researchers said. The drug is known to cause side effects that include an increased risk of serious infections as well as tears in the stomach and intestines, according to Pfizer, the company that makes tofacitinib, which is sold under the brand name Xeljanz.
The findings add to those of a study published in September, which tested tofacitinib as a treatment for 66 people with hair loss due to alopecia areata, an immune-system condition in which the hair falls out in patches. (Alopecia universalis is the most advanced form of alopecia areata.) In that study, half of the people regrew some hair, and one-third saw more than 50 percent of the hair on their scalp grow back. However, that study lasted only three months.
Currently, it's not clear exactly why people with alopecia universalis lose the ability to grow hair. But by studying how tofacitinib works to reverse hair loss, researchers may better understand the condition itself and be able to develop new treatments with fewer side effects, Day said.
"The more we understand about the different pathways, about what makes hair grow and what makes hair not grow, we can come up with better, more refined treatments that are hopefully safer and more reliably effective," Day said.
Original article on Live Science.
"This is a weblog that is truly welcome in blogtopia a new blog doesn't seem to be frantically trying to score points for any party. That does NOT mean it's afraid to take a stand or be critical....You really can't predict exactly where The Debate Link will come down on all issues. It's not chanting anyone's mantra." -- The Moderate Voice "[A]n emerging genius in legal scholarship and commentary." -- Jim Chen "It's on my 1st cup of coffee rss feed." -- Hanno Kaiser "I heart this blog.... he referenced Wittgenstein, and it was entirely appropriate and non-pretentious." -- kath.A.rine "[F]unny, thoughtful, acclaimed ...." -- The Core
The formation of the $2.2 trillion ASEAN Economic Community seemed to be no help at all.
Vietnam saw a 7 percent decline in exports to other members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, also known as ASEAN, in the first 10 months, Thanh Nien newspaper has reported, citing customs statistics.
This trend was different from strong performances seen in other markets: shipments to the U.S. soared by 15 percent, the E.U. 4 percent, China 23.9 percent, and South Korea 29.1 percent.
Exports from Vietnam to its neighboring countries in the Southeast Asian region, a market of 600 million people, are mostly crude oil, rice and steel, but even these key products are struggling.
Vietnam, despite being recognized as one of the worlds largest rice exporters, has become less competitive in Southeast Asia because it has failed to improve the quality of the grain and to build a national brand name, said Pham Thai Binh, a rice exporter in the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho.
The country is traditionally more focused on quantity rather than quality, a strategy that has backfired, especially for rice exports, said Bui Huy Son, director of the Trade Promotion Department under the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
Vietnamese rice exporters are facing intense competition from Thailand and Myanmar, he added.
Local steel makers have also taken a hit as Chinese products have flooded regional markets. In response to anti-dumping measures by the U.S. and the E.U., Chinese steel exporters are shifting to ASEAN countries.
Steel exports from China to ASEAN have rivaled those from Vietnam, said Do Duy Thai, chief executive officer of a local steel company.
Besides, while ASEAN nations have removed or cut tariffs, major non-tariff barriers remain, said Le Thu Huong, an executive of rubber company Casumina.
She suggested that such technical trade barriers have contributed to the drop in Vietnams exports to ASEAN neighbors.
The ASEAN Economic Community was formally opened at the end of last year after a decade of preparation. But it may take at least several more years before the ambitious project can fulfill the goal of creating a unified regional market with free flows of goods, capital and labor.
Related news:
> Vietnam widens ASEAN trade gap
> ASEAN countries stifle free labor market
Local News, Community, Charity & Cause, Home & Garden, Press Releases
By Long Island News & PR Published: November 14 2016
Applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program will be accepted beginning Monday, November 14.
Albany, NY - November 11, 2016 - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced more than $325 million in funding is available to help elderly and low- and moderate-income New Yorkers heat their homes this winter. Applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program will be accepted beginning Monday, November 14.
"No one should have to choose between putting food on the table and paying their heating bill," Governor Cuomo said. "This critical program helps seniors and hard-working New Yorkers cover the high cost of heat during the cold winter months. I encourage those who are eligible to apply for this support and to stay warm and stay safe."
Eligible households can receive a one-time benefit of up to $626, depending on income, household size and heating source. A family of four can have a household income of up to $53,076 annually, or $4,423 a month, and still qualify for help.
Last winter, more than 1.4 million households received assistance from the federally-funded program. A breakdown of the number of households that received assistance last winter, by region is below:
Region Households Served 2015-16 Capital Region 65,538 Central New York 57,806 Finger Lakes 86,335 Long Island 63,759 Mid-Hudson 97,506 Mohawk Valley 45,481 New York City 765,002 North Country 36,283 Southern Tier 51,623 Western New York 134,635 Total 1,403,968
Local News, Crime, National & World News, Community, Charity & Cause, Press Releases
By Long Island News & PR Published: November 14 2016
NVVF has operated nationwide since 1992 and began soliciting in New York in approximately 2008.
Schneiderman: This organization took advantage of the good will of millions, yet failed to fulfill nearly all of its promises to help those who have sacrificed for our nation.
New York, NY - November 11, 2016 - Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman today announced that his office has reached settlements resolving investigations into the National Vietnam Veterans Foundation, which also operated as the American Veteran Support Foundation (the NVVF), its former President and Founder, John Thomas Burch, Jr. (Burch), and its Vice President, David Kaufman (Kaufman).
NVVF has operated nationwide since 1992 and began soliciting in New York in approximately 2008. By 2014, NVVF was collecting nearly $9 million nationwide from its fundraising campaigns, soliciting small dollar donations from the public through direct mail and phone calls -- purportedly to help Vietnam Veterans. Nearly all of the money raised through its direct mail campaigns was instead used to pay its fundraisers. For example, in 2014, $7.7 million of the $8.6 million raised was used to pay NVVFs fundraisers. The fraction that actually made it to NVVF was further reduced by a pattern of abuse, mismanagement and misspending by NVVFs former President, Burch.
There is nothing more shameless than exploiting military veterans in order to enrich oneself. The actions of this charity and its founder are appalling, said Attorney General Schneiderman. This organization took advantage of the good will of millions, yet failed to fulfill nearly all of its promises to help those who have sacrificed for our nation. This settlement sends a clear message that charities will not get away with fleecing donors in New York.
VA employees are held to high standards and are afforded a special public trust to execute their duties properly for the benefit of veterans and the American people, said Michael J. Missal, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General. The VA OIG's investigation found that Mr. Burch engaged in conduct prejudicial to the Government, and misused his position and government equipment for his own personal enrichment. As a lawyer for VA with ethical, fiduciary, and professional obligations, his conduct is particularly disturbing and repugnant.
As part of the settlement, Burch paid $100,000 to the Attorney General, most of which will be re-directed to charities actually helping veterans. Burch also repaid his severance pay received from NVVF and will cooperate with ongoing investigations into others associated with NVVF and its fundraisers. Burch will also be subject to a permanent nationwide bar on access to charitable assets or decision-making.
Burch issued an apology to donors of NVVF and to Vietnam Veterans whom he exploited in order for fundraisers to collect money. Burch also admitted that NVVF had paid 90% of its donations to its fundraisers and admitted to deceptively marketing how solicited money would be spent. In the settlement, Burch admits to the Attorney Generals findings and to his misconduct, including the following:
Burch used NVVF funds to pay for foreign and domestic travel, frequenting night clubs in the Baltimore area on a nearly weekly basis, ordering excessive and expensive food and drink at the countrys top restaurants and lavishing gifts on women;
Burch financed this lifestyle with his own credit cards and then submitted receipts to NVVFs bookkeeper for reimbursement. Burchs expense reimbursements to NVVF describe fictitious meetings or NVVF business with individuals that were not present or did not exist. For example, in 2012 Burch spent approximately $800 in one night frequenting night clubs and hotels in the Baltimore area. Burch described the nature of these expenditures on the Foundations expense reimbursement form as work on homelessness and veteran issue;
Burch, who was in charge of the NVVFs discretionary Emergency Assistance Program, awarded significant amounts of cash to a handful of women, all of whom were born after the Vietnam War ended. Six of those women received over $10,000 and one over $20,000; and
In addition to Burchs salary at NVVF, Burch reimbursed himself for life and medical insurance, pharmaceutical and medical expenses, parking for his two private automobiles in downtown Washington, D.C., where he worked, telephone, fax, internet, and building security services at his home, memberships, conference fees, and subscriptions.
For its part, NVVF will cease fundraising in New York as of June 2016 and will cancel its registration to solicit donations in New York and initiate steps to dissolve in its home state by the end of this month.
Kaufman, NVVFs Vice President, will be subject to a permanent nationwide ban on handling charitable assets going forward and agreed to cooperate with the ongoing investigation into those associated with NVVF. Kaufman will remain as Vice President only to assist with NVVFs orderly dissolution and distribution of the NVVFs assets subject to the Attorney Generals approval.
The Foundation and Kaufman admitted that NVVF had made false filings with the Charities Bureau, including failing to disclose the identity of the fundraisers that operated on its behalf in New York, all fees associated with its fundraising activities, and the Foundations top independent contractors. NVVF and Kaufman also admitted that much of NVVFs money was not spent in the way NVVF described in its solicitations to immediately provide Vietnam Veterans in need with fundamental benefits such as food, shelter, hygiene and money for phone calls. Instead, thousands of dollars were spent by NVVF on purported consultancies and studies to be performed by friends or relatives of NVVF directors which work product was never released to the public, and on travel for its board of directors, including a trip to Normandy, France, in 2014.
Agreements can be found here and here.
The full text of the Foundation, Kaufman and Burchs admissions are available here and here. The full text of Burchs apology is available here.
This investigation into NVVF highlights the importance of AGs Charities Bureaus annual Pennies for Charities report, which reveals that charitable donations obtained by many professional fundraisers are largely spent on fundraising and administrative expenses, with only a small fraction left for charitable work. The latest Pennies for Charities report may be accessed here.
The A.G.s Tips for Charitable Giving are available here.
This case is being handled by Assistant Attorney General Elizabeth Ann Fitzwater, with the support of Charities Bureau accountant Cintia Brown-Felder, and Legal Assistant Carolyn Fleishman. James Sheehan is the Charities Bureau Chief. Alvin Bragg is Executive Deputy Attorney General for Social Justice.
Looking to stay up to date about all of the news stories and local headlines that are important to Long Islanders? We've rounded up the top coverage for all of the important topics from multiple sources around Long Island, so you can be sure you've got the most recent update on the top stories for Long Island. Have an idea for a news story? Email us at news@longisland.com
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Police are still looking for the 47-year-old man after alleged assault of the 19-year-old woman.
Police in Ho Chi Minh City are investigating a Chinese man following allegations by an employee that he raped her at her rented house last week.
The 19-year-old woman from Binh Duong Province neighboring the city reported to police on Thursday that the Chinese businessman, 47, had visited her house in District 1 the previous night, and dragged her into the bedroom and raped her.
She said she fought back but he grabbed her by the neck and threatened to kill her. She managed to escape the next morning and went straight to the police, local media reported.
The woman said she works as personal assistant and interpreter for the Chinese man.
Police have issued a warrant for the man, but have been unable to find him.
Last July, police in the city detained a 56-year-old South Korean man after his Vietnamese assistant accused him of raping her at his home. No punishment has been reported.
Around 1,000 sexual assaults are reported each year in Vietnam, where surveys found girls and women are usual victims of sexual harassment in public places and the workplace.
The country developed the first code of conduct on workplace sexual harassment last year with support from the International Labor Organization.
A government report in 2012 showed that most of the victims of sexual harassment in the country are female workers aged between 18 and 30. Many choose to keep silence out of shame and the fear of losing jobs.
Related news:
> Vietnam official keeps job after sexually harassing cleaning woman
> U.S prosecutors call for public help in finding sexual abuse victims of Vietnamese famous entertainer
> Vietnamese nail salon owner faces jail for alleged rape in U.S.
Vietnam has reported nearly 50 Zika patients in Ho Chi Minh City and many southern provinces. Photo by Reuters/Alvin Baez
A teenage boy from Ba Ria-Vung Tau has also fallen sick after visiting his girlfriend in the city.
Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province confirmed its first Zika case on Monday while its neighbor Ho Chi Minh City said the number of patients of the mosquito-borne virus has risen to 38 from 35 in just three days.
The male patient, 19, was admitted to a hospital in Ba Ria-Vung Tau on October 30 with a high fever and joint pains. He was later moved to another hospital in Ho Chi Minh City where he tested positive for the Zika virus.
An investigation by the provincial health department found he visited his girlfriend in the city around two weeks before falling sick.
Health workers fumigated his living area on Monday afternoon, and 350 families within a 250-meter radius of his house are being monitored.
Nguyen Huu Hung, deputy director of HCMC's health department, said at a meeting on Monday that the city had confirmed three new cases since the latest report three days ago.
Vietnams Zika infections are approaching 50. The latest official figure is not yet available, but there have been patients in the provinces of Binh Duong, Dak Lak, Khanh Hoa, Long An, Phu Yen and Tra Vinh. In Dak Lak, a 4-month-old baby has been confirmed as Vietnams first case of microcephaly caused by Zika.
The health ministry said people should avoid mosquito bites and use condoms to avoid contracting the virus.
Health officials said both men and women should avoid traveling to places where Zika cases have been confirmed if they are planning to have children.
The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended that women wait at least eight weeks after possible exposure to the Zika virus before becoming pregnant. Men should wait six months.
According to the World Health Organization, Zika outbreaks have been reported in around 70 countries and territories.
More than 2,000 babies have been born with Zika-related microcephaly or other birth defects around the world, according to the latest WHO report. Brazil has reported over 1,800 cases of Zika-related microcephaly; the U.S. has reported 23.
The birth defect appears in 1-10 percent of babies whose mothers contract the Zika virus during the first trimester. Thailand reported two cases of microcephaly linked to the virus in late September, which were the first in Southeast Asia.
Related news:
> 6 new Zika cases raise Ho Chi Minh Citys total to 35
> Ho Chi Minh City confirms 9 more Zika cases, raises Vietnams total to 39
> Vietnam confirms first microcephaly case likely linked to Zika
The wooden house nestled among pine trees on top of a small hill in Da Lat belongs to a man from Ho Chi Minh City who opened it to treat travel lovers like him. The New York Times in January named the Central Highlands resort town among the 52 places to go in 2016, calling it "a cool alternative to the usual steamy Vietnamese destination".
Both the Taliban and the Islamic State claim to have shot down a helicopter in the central Afghan province of Ghor today. The Afghan military instead claims the helicopter made an emergency landing due to technical issues.
The Taliban, on its official website, Voice of Jihad, claimed it downed a hireling helicopter while bombing the area. The helicopter was shot by Dshk [a heavy machine gun] and downed before landing in the said area, leaving all puppets killed or hurt inside.
It is worth mentioning that this is the second enemy helicopter being downed in Ghor province over the past one and half month, the Taliban statement continued.
The Islamic State, on its Amaq News Agency, first claimed it shot down a US helicopter gunship, but later issued a correction that noted it took down a helicopter operated by Afghan forces.
Afghan officials in Ghor claimed the helicopter landed at a local airport after catching fire. The helicopter made emergency landing due to technical issues and there were no casualties reported in the incident, Khaama Press reported.
In the past, the Afghan military has attempted to cover up Taliban attacks on its helicopters. In March 2016, Afghan officials claimed a helicopter in Kunar province made a hard landing, while the Taliban claimed it destroyed it as it landed at a remote base. The Taliban later issued video footage of the helicopter exploding in a massive IED attack as it landed. [See LWJ report, Taliban destroys Afghan army helicopter in IED attack at military base.]
The Taliban and the Islamic State have issued competing claims for attacks in Afghanistan in the past. The Taliban is known to operate in Ghor province. The Islamic State was blamed for rounding up and killing 30 civilians in Ghor province at the end of October, however officials later said that a local Taliban commander was responsible. No group claimed credit for the October massacre in Ghor. The Islamic State has not shied away from claiming credit for mass executions, which increases the probability that the slaughter in Ghor was indeed carried out by the Taliban.
In the past, the Taliban has shot down several US helicopters using RPGs, or rocket-propelled grenades. The most newsworthy strike took place in Aug. 2011 in the Tangi Valley of Wardak province. Taliban RPGs struck a US Army Chinook that was involved in a raid to capture a senior Taliban commander. That attack resulted in the deaths of 38 US and Afghan troops, including 17 Navy SEALs from SEAL Team 6, the unit that killed al Qaedas founder and first emir, Osama bin Laden.
Also, on Dec. 17, 2013, a US Blackhawk helicopter went down in Zabul province, killing six US soldiers. The Taliban claimed it shot down the Blackhawk. But the US military discounted the Talibans claim and said in a press release that initial reporting indicates there was no enemy activity in the area at the time of the crash. Three weeks later, the US military told the families of the soldiers killed that enemy action caused the crash and loss of life.
Bill Roggio is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the Editor of FDD's Long War Journal.
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Superstar DJ Afrojack to bring his beats to Saigon in December
Afrojack performs on stage at the 2016 MTV Europe Music Awards in the Netherlands in November. Photo by Reuters/Yves Herman
The Dutch DJ will perform at a nine-hour show in District 7 on December 18.
The world famous DJ Afrojack will arrive in Ho Chi Minh City for an EDM festival next month.
Nick van de Wall, professionally known as Afrojack, will perform at the festival at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center in District 7, which will run from 3 p.m. on December 18 until midnight.
The 29-year-old Dutch DJ, record producer and remixer quickly won global fame after releasing his first recording In Your Face under the Afrojack name in 2007. He also achieved international success with the song Take Over Control, which charted in 10 different countries.
He released his debut album Forget the World in 2014, and he was ranked 10th on the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs of 2016.
Organizers of the Budweiser festival told Tuoi Tre newspaper that the festival is expected to cost VND12 billion ($537,500), a third of which will pay for the artists. Vietnamese artists including popular rapper Suboi will also hit the stage.
DJ superstars Skrillex and Tiesto performed at the same festival last year.
Related news:
> Vietnamese singer wins Best Southeast Asian Act at MTV music awards
> Modern Talking singer to take Hanoi stage
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Culture / Art Republik
Art Republik sits down with the artist known as JERKFACE to find out more about his art and what inspires him.
Nov 14, 2016 | By Tan Boon Hau
Walk on the right street in New York, and one will likely be greeted (or jumped, possibly) by the citys idiosyncratic strain of street art and graffiti; works that run the gamut of emotions, from pure exuberant expressions of happiness and euphoria, to grim, deeper surrealist social commentary, from quick tags to elaborate Wildstyles a populist art form that constantly responds to the life around you, whilst literally being around you. A city alive, constantly in flux.
One thing that remains constant though (with an unstoppably persistent output) is the work of one JERKFACE. An NYC native, the Queens-born 34-year-old, has been consistently putting out his own strange brand of surrealist, cubist, low-brow culture, nostalgia-inducing, happy cartoon subversions since his teens. Homer Simpson, Finn and Jake, Super Mario, Tom and Jerry, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, amongst more examples when one sees them appearing in the same frame (in signature geometric-goop style), you know youre in the presence of a JERKFACE piece. Much like the Saturday morning cartoons, the pieces are JERKFACEs paeans to the joy and happiness the shows have given him, and now hes making sure people feel the same way too.
Pointed, opinionated and intent on marching to his own beat, Art Republik sits down with JERKFACE to see what keeps the man behind the work driven and ticking.
First things first, how did the name come about and when did you decide to become JERKFACE?
Around 2001 the artist Neck Face was getting up a lot around the Gramercy area of Manhattan. I gave my ex-girlfriend the nickname and in exchange she started calling me JERKFACE.
Do you consider what youre making art, design, mash-ups, pop provocations, or
I think my work can fall under quite a few names depending on who you ask and Id rather leave it up others to define it. Because of the attention to composition, flow, and colour placement of each piece, I believe it cannot be so simply defined as design, mash-ups or pop provocations. There is much more at work.
What makes a good wall piece?
The biggest part of deciding who or what to paint for a wall has to do with the size and shape of the wall and whatever particular character Im currently excited about.
How do you approach a work and decide on which characters to mash-up?
Its become very popular lately. Being someone who got in before the rush, I have to continue to surprise people with the combinations. There always has to be a connection for me with the characters. Thats the basis. If I dont have this connection, I wont enjoy the creative process. Once Ive decided on a subject, I rely a lot on intuition and revision to carry me through.
Why cartoon characters?
Cartoon characters play into everyones childhood. They are an aspect of innocence and joy that jog the memory of a simpler time. Adulthood for most of us, can be very heavy at times. Remembering my own youth through these compositions invokes joy and nostalgia, and it has the same effect on the people who appreciate my work.
Do you feel your wall paintings are optimistic, or at least the ideology behind your work? Do you feel its important to be optimistic?
Its pure and potent optimism. There is no negativity in my work. The way I see it, theres enough negativity in life. Id rather provide happiness and healing, then more negativity.
You have mentioned your frenetic work rate, a trait you seem to have been naturally imbued with since young (a hyper ass kid) to now, dedicating, by your count, spending 90% of your day doing something art related. Given your manic output, do you find something therapeutic about your creative process?
Yes it can be very therapeutic. Being human, there are all kinds of factors that play into how therapeutic it can be. It can depend on my current mood, how much sleep I got, deadlines, so many things. Regardless, I still work.
How do you see yourself now, compared to when you first started out?
Not much different. I enjoy what I do just as much now as I ever have. I always want my work to express how much fun Im having. I truly love to paint. Ive made a point not to let any of the benefits of success distract me from this love.
Any influencers, inside and even outside of the art sphere?
There are many artists I look up to, present and past. To look up to another artist, I have to take into account, their body of work, reputation and integrity.
Seeing your walls, from (Keith) Haring-esque freestyle, spontaneous, pop-cubist, surreal, subverted and sometimes weird dreamscapes, is there like Haring himself whos activism and deep concerns about issues like life/death, sexuality, and war was prevalent in his work a guiding principle to your process?
No. I have very strong opinions about most social and political aspects of life. However, as my main intention is to create a gateway to youth, I try to stay away from anything that will too directly depict any personal opinions I have about current issues. I always want my work to be open to interpretation.
Youve regularly spoken about your eschewing of the scene and starting one of your own instead and marching to your own beat. Do you feel like an outsider?
Im an outsider by choice. In the art world, everyone is competing to fill a few slots. Just below the surface, jealousy and insecurity run rampant. Besides, you cant stand a part, if youre standing in it.
You are a born-and-bred NYC native (with a self-professed tenuous relationship to its bureaucratic administration) do you think growing up in NYC influenced the way you approached your practice in general? What do you feel about the energy of the place then and now?
I think growing up in NYC influenced my approach to life in general. Growing up in NYC is very different than moving here. Your brain is wired from youth to be more skeptical, more aggressive, and cleverer, out of necessity. It was a darker city, it wasnt hard to find a New Yorker on a New York street, but hipsters bring good food.
How do you feel about your work in a street, more open environment to varied and diverse audiences, as opposed to the confines of a gallery?
Being in the street, its unpredictable. Who will come along, what will happen. Its an adventure. Interacting with the neighbourhood is my favourite part of any creative process.
What are your thoughts on live painting, in front of a live audience? Are there any parallels to a rap freestyle, with regards to spontaneity, and a kind of test of a street artists true mettle?
Live painting gets me off. I dont know why. Creating and observing are two of humanitys most mysterious and greatest traits. The combination is very satisfying.
Youre currently preparing for your October solo show Saturday Morning with Over The Influence gallery in Hong Kong (at time of print). Whats in the works for you, that we can expect in the near future? And, is that a reference to the universal broadcast hours when the most kick-ass cartoons come out on TV?
Saturday Morning is in reference to that time slot. I didnt focus particularly on the cartoons you would see on a Saturday morning, but more the ideal of a time allotted for such an experience. As for future works whats better than the known? The unknown See you in the future.
This article was first published in Art Republik
Its so hot in here, we can hardly breathe. And this is just the third day we have been here, said one of the shoe sellers. The renovation of Saigon's biggest wholesale market is scheduled to take a year, but many vendors believe it could take two years.
Today, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, 65.3 million people around the world have been forced out of their homes. Of these, 21.3 million are living as refugees. It is the worst humanitarian crisis since the end of the Second World War.
Of the countries where people have fled their homes to avoid violence and persecution, the destruction in Syria has displaced millions of people. Today, 6.5 million Syrians are displaced within their own country, while more than 4.7 million have sought refuge across borders.
The United States has taken the lead to help mitigate this unprecedented refugee crisis.
Working through non-governmental and international organizations such as the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and the World Food Programme, the United States has provided nearly $6 billion worth of humanitarian assistance to those displaced both within Syria, and to Syrian refugees in the region since the start of the crisis. This assistance provides medical care, food, shelter, clean water and sanitation, as well as education for children and job training for adults.
Syrias immediate neighbors now host the lions share of Syrian refugees, and the United States has sought to provide assistance to these nations since the beginning of the crisis. Since the start of the crisis, U.S. humanitarian support for Syrian refugees in Lebanon totals more than 1.2 billion dollars; support for Syrian refugees within Jordan totals 825 million dollars, and support for Syrian refugees in Turkey totals $447 million.
In addition to our assistance funding, the U.S. is the worlds leading resettlement country, having welcomed nearly 85,000 of the worlds most vulnerable refugees within the United States this year alone, said Director of the U.S. State Departments Office of Refugee Admissions Larry Bartlett. And we will continue to do so. In September, President Barack Obama announced that this fiscal year, the United States will resettle 110,000 refugees from all over the world.
In President Obamas words, This crisis is a test of our common humanity -- whether we give in to suspicion and fear and build walls, or whether we see ourselves in another.
Interview with Gagan Gupta, Chairman of Kamal Steel Group
Tanzanias real GDP growth is forecast to average about 6.3 percent between 2016 and 2020. This is a very brisk growth trend and it obviously reflects the relatively robust domestic demand in the consumption sector. How is this buoyant macroeconomic backdrop helping to benefit Kamal Steel?
Tanzania is now on the world map. After the exploration of the hydrocarbon sector from all over the world, there is much attraction and interest in investing here, which will play a very big role towards the growth and development of the GDP in Tanzania. Kamal Steel will see a direct advantage from any investment that comes to the country because we produce the steel which is the basic core material for infrastructure, construction, or even the LNG. There are also benefits from policies with the World Bank, how to consume the local product, as well as how local industry can benefit from foreign investment. Kamal Steel will therefore directly benefit from that GDP growth and continue to participate in the rapid growth of Tanzania.
Kamal Steel or Kamal Group registered its flagship company, Kamal Steels Limited, here in 2004 and today has become the largest Hi-Tensile Steel and Re-bars producer in East Africa. Can you provide a brief history and the context of your corporate journey in Tanzania?
We went into business in 2004 and it was not a planned journey. I had come here to Dar es Salaam just on holiday as a tourist. It was my first trip to Africa. Then, as a businessman, I became interested in steel because we are involved with steel in India. I went to some individuals who were dealing with steel here in Tanzania and asked what they were doing and what the prices were like. I spotted a large gap between the raw material and the finished product.
You spotted an opportunity?
Yes. My first concern was the cost of the importing. The raw material is already here, but people are still importing. I did not know anyone in business in Tanzania because I was just a tourist. I did not have any relatives here. Immediately, though, I found the right person. Unfortunately, he passed away five years ago. His name was Mr. Salgar, and he was the CEO of the Safal Group with Chandaria, which is a Kenya based group. They are a very large group in Africa. I had the chance to meet him and told him that this business was very interesting to me. I asked him what I could do here and what challenges there were. He told me that there was very good business to be had here and that if I wanted to pursue this, Tanzania had good policies and would support me.
He also warned that there are challenges of course and you have to fight. I said I was ready to fight these challenges. Then he offered me some land he had to sell. I asked him where it was and it was actually right next to his land. So on that first day, I agreed to buy the land for my factory and they are still my neighbors today. I then sent my team from India to install the factory, machines and orders. That was the starting point in 2004. We started production in March 2005. It was very quick. I made my decision without any feasibility study or consultancy. It was a good decision at the time. Now, Kamal is active in different sectors. We are producing gas and our oil refinery is ready to produce around 30,000 tons per year from the oil. We are producing 80,000 tons of steel. Our production line is ready to produce another 50,000 tons. Within the next six months, we will have produced almost 130,000 tons. However due to the power challenges, my project is delayed by another year, but we are now putting together another 300,000 ton steel mill. Before 2020, we want to produce more than a half million tons in this country. Demand is growing. New infrastructure being built all the time and they need domestic steel as an imort substitute.
What is the total market demand here?
The Tanzanian market has a demand more than a half million tons and year and the East African market combined is more than one million tons combined.
We want to grow slowly. We want to meet the demand of the country slowly. We have different operations and different challenges in the various sectors we operate in, so we have to concentrate on them piecemeal.
Kamal Steel presents an inspiring example of the benefits that can result from a South-South engagement of an Indian company coming to another undeveloped or not yet fully developed economy.
The market is always beneficial for us because it is a newly growing market and India is already quite developed in the steel sector. The relationship between India and Tanzania has been very strong for a long time. We have always received support from both the Indian and Tanzanian governments.
As an Indian investor, you gauged and identified the opportunities which were presented by a fruitful and growing market here, and then pursued these opportunities to the benefit of both yourself as an investor and the country that is reaping the benefits of this investment.
Correct.
Steel production is set to reflect the trajectory of the overall construction sector here. Obviously the bridges and high-rises have added to Tanzanias man-made landscape. In August 2014, Kamal Steel inaugurated the new 200 million dollar addition to its Chang'ombe Plant in Dar es Salaam providing you with an additional 80 million tons annual capacity. How will this new plant form a part of your overall strategy?
Our Chang'ombe factory is fully developed. That is why we have developed our new steel mill facility about 32 kilometers away along the Bagamoyo Road in the 300 acre industrial park. We have already given land to investors from Dubai, China and India and we are keeping almost 60 acres of land for ourselves for future projects. The investors have their own prospects on planning so they can establish their own industry. We are promoting similar industry here to create more employment, which is of course a basic need here in Tanzania. The unemployment rate, especially among youth, is very high so we need to provide them with employment. Kamal employs more than 300 employees in steel. In addition to our other factories, we directly employ more than 400 people today.
Kamal employs more than 300 employees in steel. In addition to our other factories, we directly employ more than 400 people today.
Since you first came to Tanzania in 2004, Kamal Group has successfully branched into several other industries ranging from mining, industrial, medical gases, and other construction related industries. What are some other promising subsectors you see Kamal expanding into?
In Tanzania, the major challenge is power. Without power no industry can run. The power must be constant and reliable. Most industries need 24 hour power to perform without issues arising, from cement factories to glass factories to steel factories. We cannot have a disturbance in the power. One breakdown can create big losses. That is a very important and challenging factor in Tanzania. In 2013, we developed our industrial park and that was quite a challenge for us. We talked with the government and told them we needed this power and they told me to see this challenge as an opportunity. I met with the people of TANESCO who also appreciated the opportunity this challenge posed, and we decided to build a 225-megawatt power project and establish an industrial park. We have done a lot of work already with documenting, gas supply agreements and negotiations, locations of the gas, as well as an extensive environmental impact assessment. We are now in the final stages.
Because of the size of the power project in Tanzania as a whole, we decided to sell back some of the power to TANESCO, which we will then buy back. So my production facilities will have continuous, good quality power. This is all because an investor from Dubai bought the land for the Siemens Plant, another investor bought the land for a medicine factory, and we also have automobile investors from India showing keen interest to start industry over here.
Because our background is in the industrial sector in India, it was easy for us to convince the investors because we already have a success story in Tanzania.
I am promoting the industry here, but I cannot do it all. I am promoting Tanzania as an investment destination. I am the Chairman of the Indian Business Forum and we are also a part of the Industrial Association in India. We have held a lot of meetings and seminars in India, Singapore, China, and Dubai to attract more investors to come here and invest in Tanzania. It is one of the best destinations for investment and we are proof of that.
So you have personally been banging the drum for Tanzania?
It helps with the GDP growth. If these people come and construct buildings or houses or factories tomorrow, they will need steel. Therefore it is mutual growth for everyone, and we as Kamal Steel benefit directly from that trend. That is why we are promoting Tanzania. We are getting investors from the United States because they believe in us as businessmen. We are not bothered by inviting competition. Let the investment come. That is more important than worries about competition.
The company has also launched its own private Export Processing Zone or EPZ. More generally, the government has placed a specific policy priority to focus on industrialization and boosting manufacturing productivity and so forth, obviously in a bid to attract investment into all of those sectors. The government also intends to expand and establish several more Special Economic Zones. Do you hope these will open the door to investors who will potentially make similar contributions to the private sectors in Tanzania?
I am always thinking about how to promote the country and bring in more industry. We organize a lot of seminars and we particularly talk on the ground level. TIC people and investors want to visit your industry because if people see, then they can do much better. I have followed our Excellency, the Honorable President Doctor John Magufuli, since the elections last October. From the first day, his focus was on industrialization and bringing in more industry. If the President is talking about industrialization and understands the core points, that is very good news for the investor. He supports all industrializations and he understands that only industrialization can bring change and create employment.
When the Indian Prime Minister was here, he talked about how to bring more industrial investment from India, because India is also an industrial country. Kamal Steel is lucky in that we are already here. It is a very good opportunity for us. In 2010, we developed the first industrial park . The whole country had no specified industrial area. I decided to develop the industrial park for heavy industries and we had to travel 32 kilometers from the city center. My dream has come true because my President wants the same thing that we have already implemented.
Do you have Tanzanian citizenship?
Not in law. I am an Indian passport holder. But my younger brother, Sameer, is a Tanzanian now. So our interest is here. We are here for the long term.
Regionally, you have a dealer network which already encompasses many countries in the area, such as Zambia, Burundi, Congo, Kenya, Malawi, and so on. Do you intend to continue to deepen your footprint across the African continent at large?
No. My work style is different. We are making a footprint in Zambia, Rwanda, Burundi and neighboring countries also, but I want to fulfil the demand of Tanzania first and foremost. My full focus is on Tanzania and identifying where there are weaknesses, in the power sectors, the steel sector. Expanding our business is a different issue. Tanzania is a very big market. You can put a footprint anywhere and open an office. I do not want that. I want to focus on one place and make it strong so I can be part of the growth of Tanzania. We are participating in terms of the revenue and taxes and we are doing good work in the country.
How much satisfaction do you take personally in being a member of the Tanzanian business community and being able now to actively contribute towards its overall social economic development?
There are challenges. Yet it is also true that if there is a challenge, then there is a profit to be made. We have to face the challenges. My father always told the story of industrialization in India in the 1960s and 70s which were a very difficult time. He taught me to not be worried about challenges, but to fight them. In my personal view of Tanzania, I never feel away from home, here. I never feel scared. People are very humble and very supportive.
They are extremely respectful. I am from India and this is my first-choice destination. So I have a great respect for this country and this country has also given me a lot in terms of my growth and my respect. We are also doing whatever we can do on a social level and through social corporate responsibility. We have adopted two schools. For many years we have fed 1,600 children every day. We are giving lunch every day to these children so they will come to school and study. The parents are also happy.
By 2020, we want to feed at least 10,000 children. We can adopt more schools because food and education are both related.
For now we are focusing on steel and power. We have the refinery already established and other projects are in progress. We are working very hard in the agriculture sector. We are focusing on different sectors to find what can benefit the country, the weaknesses, and where we can make a bridge between India and Tanzania. India is also importing a lot of crops and everyday staple foods from Tanzania. We are talking with the government and different organizations in India to make a better bridge so that Tanzanian farmers can benefit from good regulations and fair prices in the future and really benefit from the market. They need this. The Indian Business Forum is inviting the big farmers and introducing them straight to the Indian buyers so they can export directly and get a good price, which will then allow them to grow more.
As I am here in Tanzania, it is my duty to pass on that opportunity to the Tanzanian people.
America elected its next president last Tuesday. That's a yuuuge deal.[i] Outside the US, meanwhile, other nations face their own political trials and tribulations. Some are "politics as usual," while others are downright scary-reminders that a lot is happening beyond our shores, both in developed nations and Emerging Markets (EM). For investors, it is vital to tune out the noise and focus on what-if anything-is actually changing. Despite the chaos, the rule of law is still alive and well in developed countries, and besides some tiresome theatrics, those governments are mostly gridlocked-an underappreciated bullish political driver. Emerging Nations are (as usual) iffier, but the issues seem isolated.
Brexit Goes to Court
The London High Court ruled in early November that Parliament must weigh in before Britain can trigger Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty-the formal mechanism that kicks off the two-year period for EU exit negotiations. This wrinkle has prompted speculation Brexit may not happen, but that's premature. This (and related cases) now go to the UK's Supreme Court, and even if the London ruling holds, it seems unlikely Parliament goes against the people's will.
After the UK voted to leave in June, some challenged the decision's legal standing. In late October, the High Court in Belfast ruled against two cases that argued the UK government couldn't invoke Article 50 unilaterally. One cited a prior agreement (the 1998 Good Friday Agreement) and argued devolution meant Westminster couldn't force Northern Ireland to leave the EU. Period. Another suggested the UK government can't trigger Article 50 without Parliamentary approval. The judge rejected both arguments. However, a British businesswoman's argument for Parliamentary approval was successful in London's High Court.
The government said it would appeal to the Supreme Court, which will hear the case in December and plans to make its ruling early next year. Appeals of the Northern Irish cases will likely be folded into this hearing, which will be a doozy. Scotland's First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, has asked to be heard during the proceedings. She plans to argue triggering Article 50 would deprive the Scottish people of their rights-Scotland voted to remain-and thus, the Scottish Parliament's approval is necessary, too. The Welsh Government has also applied to participate in the hearings, focusing on "the use of prerogative power to take steps which will or may impact" the Welsh Assembly's powers and relationship with Westminster as well as Welsh society. Northern Ireland's First Minister, Arlene Foster, has kept mum on her plans, but Northern Irish surrogates are pushing for the Court to take up the Belfast case.
While this could undermine Prime Minister Theresa May's plans for starting Brexit talks in March, it doesn't necessarily imperil Brexit.[ii] Though many MPs wanted to remain in the EU, they also are cognizant of their constituents-a majority 52% voted to leave, after all. Overturning the people's will would be political suicide at the next general election. Though we don't know how the UK Supreme Court will ultimately rule, this episode shows deadlines and timelines can always shift when it comes to politics. In the meantime, continued Brexit focus probably means gridlock-not unlike Prime Minister John Major's tenure in the 1990s, when he held a razor-thin majority and ultimately couldn't do a whole lot while his MPs squabbled over Europe.
Italy Has Its Own Referendum
In December, Italians will vote in a referendum on electoral reform, which may decide Prime Minister Matteo Renzi's future. Italy's legislative morass has consistently prevented labor market reforms and other key modernizing measures, so these proposed changes seek to streamline the process by cutting the number of Senate seats and giving the lower house more power. Renzi staked most of his political capital on this cause, at one point proclaiming he would resign if the referendum failed-a pledge he has already walked back.
Some think that because polls show the referendum won't pass, this bodes ill for Italian politics. However, a quarter of those polled are still undecided, so the epitaph is premature. Plus, for better or worse, political instability is the status quo in Italy. If the referendum fails and Renzi goes the way of Enrico Letta, Mario Monti, Silvio Berlusconi and Romano Prodi-Italy's four other PMs since 2011-this shouldn't wallop markets. Rather, it would usher in a new government, either technocratic or fragmented, that would be gridlocked because these changes didn't pass. That's true whether or not the anti-establishment Five Star Movement comes to power nationally, which polls imply might happen. Gridlock might prevent further reforms, but it would also forestall sweeping legislation that could bring unintended consequences.
A Korean Rasputin?
The happenings in South Korea are a bit more unusual than a couple court cases and a referendum, as President Park Geun-hye is embroiled in an extraordinary political scandal. Choi Soon-sil, a friend of Park's and daughter of a man whose relationship with Park resembles Rasputin and Tsarina Alexandra Romanov, is accused of using her association with the Blue House[iii] for personal power and financial gain. Choi also had access to, and was consulted on, government policy-despite having no experience or authority to do so. The wild story, which you can read more about here, has shocked Koreans, who are already extremely jaded toward their pols.
This scandal probably won't lead to Park's impeachment. Korean presidents can be impeached only for violating the constitution or laws, not acts of questionable morality, incompetence or mistakes. Yet her ability to govern meaningfully is likely over. As shocking as this story is, it needn't derail positive drivers underlying one of Asia's most advanced economies. Chaebol (Korea's mega-conglomerates) inefficiencies aside, steady domestic consumption has boosted the economy, which is already pretty competitive. It was unlikely Park would reform the chaebol, so gridlock extends a status quo that markets today are fine with.
Strongmen in Turkey and the Philippines
More troublingly, in Turkey and the Philippines, authoritarian strongmen have been making waves. In Turkey, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is on a path to be the most dominant politician in the republic's history. Most recently, he jailed leaders of the Kurdish People's Democratic Party-who have resisted his power play-through a series of midnight raids. Erdogan's Justice and Development Party (AKP) has said it will soon adopt a new constitution that would create an executive presidency, bolstering his already considerable power. Meanwhile, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has expanded his bloody war on drugs from Davao City (where he was mayor) to the nation, letting police use deadly force on alleged drug users without due process. By some estimates, more than 4,000 people have been killed since Duterte launched his campaign after winning the presidency in May.
We aren't sugarcoating anything: There isn't anything good about these stories (though local markets have proven resilient). However, they provide a keen reminder that there are always problems and trouble around the world. Always has been and always will be. Markets know this, digest it and move forward. They're callous in that regard, but from an investment point of view, folks can't let those problems sway them from their strategy-especially since we don't envision a time when there won't be horrific, terrible things happening somewhere.
There are other notable stories, too. Thailand is preparing to transition power to the crown prince after its longstanding king passed away. Lawyers in Hong Kong are protesting China's recent intervention in the special administrative region's legislature. While stories of discontent and transition can be troubling, the genuinely worrisome parts of the world also aren't in the majority. Say what you will about politics in the developed world,[iv] but the rule of law remains firm. Hillary Clinton conceded the election and urged support for the new president-elect, who met with President Obama last Thursday in what was reportedly a cordial meeting. The British government is appealing the court's decision rather than outright ignoring or dismissing the ruling. Renzi is leaving the decision to the people. Koreans are protesting against Park, but they haven't violently removed her from office. Compared to places like Venezuela, this shows why markets prefer places where the rule of law is strong. And while a strong rule of law shouldn't be assumed to be a given, it doesn't appear likely to deteriorate any time soon.
Memo to the Next US Administration: Defense Spending Must Be For Actual Defense
In a disturbing indication of how difficult it would be to bring military spending in line with actual threats overseas, House Armed Services Chairman Rep. Mac Thornberry (R TX) told President Obama last week that his war funding request of $11.6 billion for the rest of the year was far too low. That figure for the last two months of 2016 is larger than Spain's budget for the entire year! And this is just a "war-fighting" supplemental, not actual "defense" spending! More US troops are being sent to Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan, and elsewhere and the supplemental request is a way to pay for them without falling afoul of the "sequestration" limits.
The question is whether this increase in US military activity and spending overseas actually keeps us safer, or whether it simply keeps the deep state and the military-industrial complex alive and well-funded.
Unfortunately many Americans confuse defense spending with military spending. The two terms are used almost interchangeably. But there is a huge difference. I have always said that I wouldn't cut anything from the defense budget. We need a robust defense of the United States and it would be foolish to believe that we have no enemies or potential enemies.
The military budget is something very different from the defense budget. The military budget is the money spent each year not to defend the United States, but to enrich the military-industrial complex, benefit special interests, regime-change countries overseas, maintain a global US military empire, and provide defense to favored allies. The military budget for the United States is larger than the combined military spending budget of the next seven or so countries down the line.
To get the military budget in line with our real defense needs would require a focus on our actual interests and a dramatic decrease in spending. The spending follows the policy, and the policy right now reflects the neocon and media propaganda that we must run the rest of the world or there will be total chaos. This is sometimes called "American exceptionalism," but it is far from a "pro-American" approach.
Do we really need to continue spending hundreds of billions of dollars manipulating elections overseas? Destabilizing governments that do not do as Washington tells them? Rewarding those who follow Washington's orders with massive aid and weapons sales? Do we need to continue the endless war in Afghanistan even as we discover that Saudi Arabia had far more to do with 9/11 than the Taliban we have been fighting for a decade and a half? Do we really need 800 US military bases in more than 70 countries overseas? Do we need to continue to serve as the military protection force for our wealthy NATO partners even though they are more than capable of defending themselves? Do we need our CIA to continue to provoke revolutions like in Ukraine or armed insurgencies like in Syria?
If the answer to these questions is "yes," then I am afraid we should prepare for economic collapse in very short order. Then, with our economy in ruins, we will face the wrath of those countries overseas which have been in the crosshairs of our interventionist foreign policy. If the answer is no, then we must work to convince our countrymen to reject the idea of Empire and embrace the United States as a constitutional republic that no longer goes abroad seeking monsters to slay. The choice is ours.
Buy Ron Paul's latest book, Swords into Plowshares, here.
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The United States Government, through the United States Agency for International Development, or USAID, and the non-partisan civic movement Participacion Ciudadana recently celebrated the tenth anniversary of the Community House of Justice program.
This successful initiative began as a pilot project for the promotion and use of Mediation and Conciliation methods. These are regarded as important tools to increase access to justice, particularly for vulnerable populations.
During the celebration, U.S. Ambassador James Brewster praised the hard work and commitment of Participacion Ciudadana, the Attorney General's Office, the municipality and civil society. The success of the program, the Ambassador noted, allows access to justice in communities with high crime rates.
Community Justice Houses establish a space where the Judiciary, the Public Ministry, municipalities, and the business sector come together, through the coordination of civil society. The pilot initiative has successfully been replicated. There are now nine Community Justice Houses in the Dominican Republic, in Santiago, Moca, San Francisco, La Vega, Esperanza, Mao, and the National District.
The Community Justice House Program has benefited more than 250,000 people through conflict resolution in family, labor and community related issues. These include such difficult issues as alimony, child custody, visitation rights, estate matters, boundary disputes, leases, and debts. The Houses also help prevent violence in the communities, because citizens have free access to services such as conciliation, mediation, legal counseling, psychological care, coordination with social organizations and civic education, and care for gender-based and domestic violence victims.
Participacion Ciudadana National Coordinator, Josefina Arvelo, said the program has been highly effective, and she advocated for more replication of the Community Justice House model to different parts of the country.
For over five decades, USAID has collaborated closely with the people and government of the Dominican Republic. They have worked together to increase sustainable development and strengthen the countrys health care, economy, governance, justice, civil society and education. To date, USAID has invested more than $1.7 billion in the Dominican Republic. This is very much a partnership that works well for both the United States and the Dominican Republic, as well as for the region.
During the American Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln called on his countrymen in his famous Gettysburg Address to ensure that liberty "shall not perish from the earth."
His words have inspired many over the years, including millions in our nation's armed services who fought to preserve not only Americas freedom, but that of other nations as well.
Today, Veterans Day, America pauses to honor these men and women, and the values of duty and sacrifice they represent. Long after they leave uniform, they symbolize what it means to be a citizen of a free land.
The holiday, observed every year on November 11, originated with the armistice that ended The First World War in 1918. The conflict, fought in Asia, Africa, scattered islands in the Pacific and the waters off South America, as well as on the battlefields of Europe, was seen as "the war to end all wars." But other wars followed, and in 1954 President Dwight Eisenhower expanded the holiday to honor all who have served in uniform both in war and peace.
Our government continues this effort to this day, with program to help veterans leaving the military to find employment and ease their transition into civilian life. "Honoring our sacred trust with America's veterans means doing all we can to help them find work when they come home so they never feel as if the American Dream they fought to defend is out of reach for them and their families," President Barack Obama said.
At its core, though, Veterans Day isn't about war. It commemorates no battlefield victory or defeat, it celebrates no advancement of political or territorial ambition. Rather, it's a day of remembrance, echoing similar holidays in Great Britain, Canada, South Africa and other nations that honor military veterans for their service and sacrifice.
On Veterans Day, a service was held at Bassett Funeral Service to honor local veterans who served in the Korean DMZ Conflict and the Korean War and Conflict.
The centerpiece of the service was the unveiling of a bench commemorating the 50th anniversary of the DMZ Conflict and adorned with the names of five area DMZ veterans and 120 Korean War veterans.
The DMZ Conflict, sometimes referred to as the Second Korean War, was a series of armed clashes between North Korean forces and the forces of South Korea and the U.S. along the DMZ, or Demilitarized Zone. It lasted from 1966-1969.
The bench is the brainchild of DMZ Conflict veteran David Minter, who reached out to Paul Kennedy of Bassett Funeral Service and Pat Ross of the Bassett Historical Center. Minter was among the speakers at the event. The bench is slated to be placed overlooking the Smith River behind the Historical Center.
The Friday service included the National Anthem, led by Anne Copeland; a rendition of Amazing Grace played by bagpiper Bob Norris; a prayer by DMZ Conflict veteran John Harold Stone; the recitation of the names on the DMZ Bench from David Minter, Pat Ross and Fran Snead; and comments from Paul Kennedy, Henry County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jim Adams, Martinsville Mayor Danny Turner, and a representative from Congressman Morgan Griffiths office.
When I was asked to be a part of this, I jumped on board, as my grandfather was a World War II veteran and was wounded in the Battle of the Bulge, Kennedy said at the service. This was something that was important to me to be a part of, something that we could do for the community.
Turner read a letter from a South Korean soldier thanking the U.S. soldiers for the sacrifices that aided their country.
Adams said that while the DMZ Conflict is too often overshadowed by the Vietnam Conflict of the same era, we must remember the sacrifices of those who served.
We owe a debt of gratitude to each and every veteran, not only those present with us today but all over our community, the men and women that serve each and every day, Adams said. Were so proud of them.
Ross Walker discusses the events of the recent SNP annual party conference, where leader Nicola Sturgeon announced plans for a second referendum on Scottish independence. Beneath the apparent party unity surrounding independence, however, it is clear that strong class contradictions are developing within the SNP.
The SNP is by far the largest party in Scotland. In fact, it is one of the most dominant parties in history, having elected 56 out of the 59 Scottish MPs to Westminster and holding government in Holyrood, with over 2% of the population carrying an SNP membership card. For this reason, the annual SNP conference is one of the most significant and telling political events of the year in Scotland, and gives us many an insight into what the future holds for the class struggle in Scotland.
This years conference started with the announcement of the deputy leadership election result. Tommy Sheppard MP, the main candidate on the left of the party, despite winning the largest amount of nominations from the largest variety of branches, won just 25%. The other left-winger, councillor Chris McEleny, won 3%, whilst Alan Smyth - the very pro-Europe MEP - got 18.3 %. The established parliamentary group leader, Angus Robertson, won with 53% of the vote to become the Deputy Leader. In his speech he planted his traditional nationalist flag by saying, We are the Scottish National Party; the clue is in the name, we represent the whole of the country.
The fact that the established parliamentary group leader, with more than 30 years of party experience, beat the left candidate on a low turnout (34%) is a sign of the fact that the membership are generally happy with the partys leadership; and although the partys inevitable class contradictions are beginning to emerge, it is not at the stage of provoking an all-out civil war.
The deputy leadership result was very much overshadowed by Nicola Sturgeons dramatic announcement of a draft bill on independence to be published imminently.
Brexit and IndyRef2
In Sturgeons speech, she used the issue of Brexit - and particularly Theresa Mays tack towards Hard Brexit - to back up her case for the need for another referendum. Here in Scotland 80,000 jobs could be lost, Sturgeon warned. Wages would be hit by up to 2,000 and growth in the economy would slow. The SNP leader challenged Theresa May by saying, It's high time you showed some respect for 62 per cent of people across Scotland who voted to Remain. Her announcement was met with a standing ovation from the conference and predictable hysteria from the largely pro-unionist capitalist press.
The excitement shown by independence supporters inside and outside the conference was clear and predictable considering the recent memory of the 2014 referendum, which inspired so many previously inactive and apolitical workers and youth into political activity.
Although it was a constitutional question on Scotlands independence, it wasnt ideological nationalism which fuelled the 2014 YES campaign, or indeed todays mood for independence, but rather an opposition to the austerity, warmongering, and xenophobia emanating from Westminster.
This nature of the 2014 YES campaign provoked the British establishment into its Project Fear" mode, where it put all its might behind the NO campaign, which in turn played a role in the YES movements defeat.
It was clear from events during the recent conference, however, that the SNP leadership and the capitalist class have learnt lessons and have different ideas for IndyRef2.
Nationalists, capitalists, and the EU
The capitalists were at this years SNP conference in their numbers. The Association of British Bookmakers, Carillion plc, McDonalds, and Royal Bank of Scotland: all these big businesses and bankers had stalls. CBI, Oil and Gas UK, Santander, the Scotch Whisky Association, Coca Cola, EDF, and Scottish Gas also had advertised fringe events, costing a minimum of 1,700 each. Charlotte Street Partners and Edinburgh airport, Ernst and Young, and Scottish Power and TSB bank all had pages advertised in the programme, costing over a thousand pounds per page. To add to this there was a private airport-style lounge at the conference as part of a signed commercial relationship with Heathrow Airport, estimated to have cost tens of thousands of pounds.
One MP at a lobbyist event, hosted by Charlotte Street Partners and Edinburgh airport, spoke of businesses which were vehemently on the NO side in the referendum in 2014...doing some scenario planning on how attractive it might be to be part of an independent Scotland which is within the EU, if the rest of the UK was to leave.
This same MP went on to say: To that extent, among those who were most vehemently on the NO side, there is something of a shift.
These words are very clear. The capitalist class, although they generally would rather Scotland didnt become independent, is prepared to jump ship if things go that way, particularly if EU membership and access to the single market is part of the deal.
EU membership is of course far from guaranteed for any independent Scotland. Resistance exists from the current right-wing Spanish government, who fear an example for separatists within Spain, as well as from various sections of the European capitalist class who pull the EU strings and see no profit in Scotlands membership.
There are other factors at play here, however, including the instability of the EU as whole, which is in a social and economic crisis. It is rapidly losing credibility in many other countries across the continent. Scotland is one of the few places where the EU is very popular and EU leaders may be forced to concede to some sort of deal with Scotland.
Internal contradictions
The SNP faces a predicament though; it cannot succumb to big business and EU pressure without alienating its base of support amongst workers and youth. As left deputy candidate Tommy Shepherd said in his campaign, If we yield to a tax haven dream to win over a few bankers from the city of Edinburgh, then we will lose the argument and the people we really need to enthuse.
It wasnt just the capitalists that had an influence on the conference. The TUC were also present. Several MPs spoke alongside TUC General Secretary Frances O Grady, who praised the SNPs broad-based support for unions. One proposal was to take advantage of Brexit to negotiate a left Brexit and renegotiate terms of employment law and bargaining rights. The SNP proposal was to negotiate so that these powers could be devolved to Scotland, and this was met by approval by Frances OGrady, who said it would be a beacon of hope to workers throughout the UK.
The price of stalls and fringe events this year had increased significantly, with some organisations being quoted four times more than last year, making it difficult for anyone other than corporations to influence the conference. Many stalls and campaigns were priced out of the conference altogether.
(Notably, there was a presence from the particularly sinister Friends of the Middle East stall, which was clearly a stall supporting the Israeli government, and which was set up in the main conference. This, despite having little support amongst the party membership and being clearly antagonistic to the much more popular SNP Friends of Palestine.)
Ideaspace
This pricing situation prompted several left-leaning campaign groups and not-for-profit organisations to set up Ideaspace, five minutes away from the main conference venue. The SNP leadership instructed its elected representatives to politely decline invitations to participate in Ideaspace, but two MPS and various MSPs defied their leaders wishes.
Estimates of over one thousand (mainly SNP delegates) attended this alternative conference. Its first meeting was on land reform, with the mood clearly being very critical of the SNP government for not doing enough to tackle the issue of the large concentration of land ownership. This followed from last years SNP conference, where the membership successfully rebelled against the leaderships tame motion.
Amongst various other left-wing speakers, SNP MP George Kerevan, spoke of the need to set up a National Investment Bank, obviously inspired by left Labour leader Jeremy Corbyns proposal for a similar such reform.
It is clear that there are many people looking to the left of the current leadership within the SNP, and that bureaucratic measures from the leadership will only quell this mood so much. A whole layer within the party is open to socialist ideas, and this layer will only increase at the crisis of capitalism - within Scotland, Britain, and internationally - continues and intensifies.
The long-term perspective, therefore, is for a split along class lines in the SNP: between a pro-capitalist wing and the leftward moving workers and youth that make up the bulk of the partys membership.
Migration and xenophobia
A strong theme of the conference was opposition to Tory xenophobia, especially that seen since Brexit - and in particular at the Tory conference. Angus Robertson called for a cast-iron guarantee on the status of EU nationals, stating:
As much as Theresa May wants to run and hide from her record, how could anybody forget her influence[But] Scotland is their [migrants] home and they are welcome here
John Swinney, the education secretary, also reassured EU students that their rights to funding would remain in place for 2017 and demanded that the Tory government protect their rights to stay here after their studies. Post-work visas were also called to be devolved to Scotland, with an MSP saying that the decision by the UK government to scrap the post-study work visa was a huge mistake. Another MP, Joanna Cherry spoke out against the Westminster governments treatment of refugees, and Sturgeon ended the conference by calling for an inclusive Scotland.
The fact that many in Scotland are attracted by such stances shows a healthy response to Brexit induced xenophobia and a belief that Scotland can be a more tolerant place - a positive sign of class consciousness.
There is another cynical side to this, however, as shown by the CBIs (Confederation of British Industry) intervention in the conference, who showed support for more powers to be given to the Scottish government on issues such as immigration, knowing that this would mean more pro-immigration policies. The predominant wing of the capitalist class are indeed in favour of immigration, as it ensures a large supply of cheap and easily exploitable labour.
The SNP leadership are therefore taking out two birds with one stone on this issue: appealing to the more radicalised workers and youth who want a more tolerant and open society; and also appealing to big businesses that need cheap migrant labour and that are put off by the Hard Brexit being put forward by the Westminster government.
Who do you represent?
In an interview with left-wing website Commonspace, the new deputy leader, Angus Robertson, claimed that the party was interested in success, not ideology. This clumsy remark highlighted a naivety within the SNP leadership. Every movement has an ideology, whether consciously or not. To reject ideas is to succumb to the dominant current of ideas within society which - as Marx explained - is the ideology of its ruling class. When the SNP try to avoid ideological questions and debates, therefore, they are in fact trying to avoid the unavoidable question of which class - and whose interests - they really represent.
The class contradictions could be seen in one of the most heated moments at the conference, when a motion on the charitable status of state schools passed by only 9 votes (464 to 455). Many delegates correctly saw this as a reactionary move, with one delegate calling for charitable statuses to be removed from all schools, including private schools. John Swinney, the education minister, who traditionally stands on the right of the party, also refused to rule out free schools, autonomous from the local authorities.
To continue down this road will put the SNP leadership at loggerheads with Scottish public opinion, which is generally against academy schools, and also will likely provoke teaching unions, such as EIS, who are already actively opposed to such moves.
Trade unionists from the TSSA and RMT, meanwhile, picketed the SNP conference over the issue of rail re-nationalisation, which SNP policy doesnt support, but which has lot of support amongst public opinion and amongst the SNP membership, with groups like the SNP Socialists being critical of the leadership regarding this question.
The SNP leadership have shown before that they are susceptible to pressure from public opinion, from their membership, and from trade unions. This year they have conceded to campaigns by the EIS on pay and by the RMT on CalMac privatisation. Of course, in doing they will inevitably antagonise their big business sponsors.
The future of the party can be summed up by its answer to the question: Who do you represent - the workers or the bosses? This question will not be answered in one sentence, but by a complex and drawn out process of divisions, debates (which will become less and less polite), and eventually splits along class lines. When and how this will happen we cannot predict, but the current mood of content is unsustainable.
For a socialist Scotland! For a socialist world!
The SNP have been able to thrive up until now off the discontent towards Westminster, and will likely continue to do so. When the majority of MPs in Scotland vote against welfare cuts, nuclear weapons, airstrikes on Syria, etc., and yet these policies still get implemented, people in Scotland see it as undemocratic. The Westminster government is destined to keep implementing austerity due to the capitalist crisis. Its foreign policy is also not likely to change, and many people in Scotland will continue to live in the danger zone of the Faslane nuclear submarines - yet the majority of Scottish MPs vote against it. Anger and resentment, therefore, will only increase and drive more and more people into political activity.
Many will enter political activity with the illusion that independence can solve these issues. A capitalist Scotland, however, cannot provide solutions to any of these problems. Only an overthrow of capitalism and the establishment of a Scottish Workers Republic - as part of a Socialist Britain and an International Socialist Federation - can liberate workers in Scotland and internationally from austerity, poverty and wars.
As time goes on, this fact will become more and more clear to members and followers of the SNP, who will become increasingly winnable to such revolutionary ideas.
If you have attended the Old Deerfield Christmas Craft Sampler on Thanksgiving weekend for the past number of years, then change your calendar because it is being held one week earlier this Saturday and Sunday on the grounds of the Eastern States Exposition.
It also has a new name: The Old Deerfield Holiday Craft Sampler.
"Christmas is still there. Just not in the title. We wanted the sampler to reflect the expanded holiday shopping opportunities and invite fairgoers to shop for all their Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Solstice, Christmas, Kwanzaa and other gift-giving winter celebrations," said Ella Colton, craft fairs coordinator.
"From glass blown ornaments, hand crafted jewelry, specialty chocolates, to cozy slippers and scarves, our Holiday Sampler has the perfect gift for everyone on your list," she added.
Colton noted this year's Holiday Sampler will feature over 50 new crafters.
Some of the fresh faces to check out include Mary Angus of Readsboro Glassworks in Vermont, who will be showcasing her elegant glass blown items ranging from perfume bottles to candy cane themed ornaments. Two new jewelers not to miss are Sasha Walsh of Sasha Walsh Designs from Boston, who will share her fantastic avant-garde silver and gold jewelry, as well as Julia Britell Designs of Pittsfield, who will have a collection of original and elegant designs that have been silver smithed to perfection," Colton said.
Also new, children's book author, Lauryn Wendus of Oliver Poons Children's Co., will share her story of the adventures of a cat named Oliver Poon, along with his other animal friends.
Among the many popular returning artists will include Shibumi Silks of Wallingford, CT, who will demonstrate their hand dying techniques on silks and also will offer an opportunity for shoppers to purchase and create their own original silk creations at the fair. Potter Kyle Gallaway of Inspiration and Creation Studio in Somers, CT will be demonstrating how to use a potter's wheel and encourages children and adults alike to try it out. The Western Mass Wood Turners will be demonstrating a wide range of wood turning and carving techniques, along with returning painter Michael Wolski of Becket.
To add to the festive atmosphere, the sounds of fiddle and bass duo, Annika Amstutz and Daniel Plane, jazz pianist Stephen Page, and Bella Voce Duo,with pianist Michael Rheault will entertain shoppers.
Since becoming craft fairs coordinator, Colton has focused on encouraging more youngsters to celebrate the arts, children 12 and under can attend the fair for free both days and explore a miniature village. On Sunday, families can come and enjoy free crafting activities, watch and dance to Annie and the Natural Wonderband, as well as meet the Sugar Plum Fairy from the Pioneer Valley Ballet's Nutcracker.
The Holiday Sampler is one of three fundraising Old Deerfield Craft Fairs to benefit the non-profit Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association. As one of America's oldest history museums, Memorial Hall Museum, and its many programs reach out to more than 11,000 students in a single school year. Museum programs are supported, in part, by paid admissions to the craft fairs.
Gwen Ifill
In this Nov. 5, 2015 file photo, PBS "NewsHour" co-anchor Gwen Ifill attends The Women's Media Center 2015 Women's Media Awards in New York.
(AP file photo)
Gwen Ifill, a veteran news anchor who had served as a co-host of PBS's "NewsHour" and as moderator of "Washington Week," has died after a battle with cancer. She was 61.
"I am very sad to tell you that our dear friend and beloved colleague Gwen Ifill passed away today in hospice care in Washington," WETA president and CEO Sharon Percy Rockefeller wrote to staff of the Washington D.C. area public television station on Monday. "I spent an hour with her this morning and she was resting comfortably, surrounded by loving family and friends. ... Earlier today, I conveyed to Gwen the devoted love and affection of all of us at WETA/NewsHour. Let us hold Gwen and her family even closer now in our hearts and prayers."
The daughter of an African Methodist Episcopal (AME) minister, Ifill lived in several New England communities as her father's ministry required the family to move. She lived in Springfield during her teenage years and was a 1973 graduate of the former Classical High School.
Ifill graduated from Simmons College in Boston in 1977, before beginning her career at the Boston Herald-American. She held reporting positions at The Washington Post, The New York Times and NBC before becoming a moderator of PBS's "Washington Week in Review" in 1999.
She moderated a Democratic debate between Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders in February. She moderated the vice presidential debates in 2004 and 2008.
Ifill was originally scheduled to anchor Election Night coverage, but the week before PBS announced she was on an unspecified medical leave.
She was set to receive the 2016 John Chancellor Award from Columbia University, an event that had recently been postponed, according to Vox.
Ifill received an honorary degree from Bay Path University in 2007.
1114 trump fight.jpg
Police mugshots of Douglas Dahlberg, left, and Evan Brown, who are accused of fighting over Donald Trump inside a Mexican restaurant in Old Saybrook, Conn.
(Old Saybrook Police photos)
It's a state of the times that political arguments can trump even the desire for Mexican food.
According to a post on the Old Saybrook Police Facebook page, Two Connecticut men are facing charges after a verbal disagreement over President-elect Donald Trump escalated into a fistfight Friday evening.
That the fight occurred inside a Mexican restaurant caused the media's irony meter to jump off the charts, sending reports of this story far and wide.
Police were called to Cuckoo's Nest, a Mexican restaurant on Boston Post Road, after receiving multiple 911 calls about a fight in progress. Some of the callers reported that both punches and dishes were being thrown.
According to police, when officers arrived and separated the parties, they learned neither man knew the other. While inside the restaurant, the two apparently got into an argument about Trump and it quickly went from a verbal dispute to a physical one.
One of the men was taken to the hospital for treatment of injuries suffered in the fight, while the other was taken into custody.
Both men will be charged, police said.
According to NBC Connecticut, Evan Brown, 34, of Lyme, Connecticut, was charged with breach of the peace and third-degree assault. His bail was set at $2,500. The other man, Douglas Dahlberg, 58, of Clinton, Connecticut, will be charged with breach of the peace.
According to the station, Brown celebrated his birthday on Friday.
CHICOPEE - The Boys & Girls Club will hold its annual community turkey dinner on Monday to thank the community and the city for its support.
This is the 19th year the club has hosted the dinner and last year more than 325 people attended the dinner, said Jason Reed, marketing and development manager for the club.
The dinner will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday. It is free and open to the public, but people are asked to bring a non-perishable food item that will be donated to Lorraine's Soup Kitchen & Pantry, Reed said.
Charter Spectrum is the lead sponsor of the event. In addition, the Westover Job Corps students in the culinary department will be seasoning, roasting, and carving the birds. The Knights of Columbus Council 4044 will provide the mashed potatoes, vegetables, gravy, rolls, and cranberry sauce. Costco donate the cakes and beverages, he said.
As part of their commitment to community involvement, Boys & Girls Club members who are part of the Torch Club and Keystone Club will assist in the serving, set up, and break down of the meal, he said.
The election-night coverage of the 2016 vote began with images of the Clinton campaign team gathering in the Javits Center under the symbolic glass ceiling. Hillary Clinton supporters were enthusiastic, upbeat, and expectant. The polls gave them every reason to expect that America was electing her as the countrys first female president. Theres just this one little detail, however: the polls were wrong, and the party never happened.
Not since 1948, with the non-election of Thomas Dewey, have the polls been so wrong. Just as in 1948, however, the problem does not rest in the field of statistics, but rather in the field of research methodology.
RealClear Politics identified 16 battleground states and provided data for the latest polls in each of those states. They had combined those polls and posted an overall average for each state. We all understand that these polls include a margin of error that is mathematically linked to the sample size. All else being equal, larger samples have less error; smaller samples have more error. Although RealClear does not provide an overall margin of error for their average of polls, that margin can be easily calculated by taking into account the size of the various samples (and making one or two reasonable assumptions).
Based on these numbers, the RealClear difference between Trump and Clinton was indeed within the margin of error for seven of the 16 battleground states, including Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Maine, New Hampshire, and Virginia. In one state, the polls underestimated Clintons performance. The RealClear summary hinted at a small Trump lead in Nevada, a state that Clinton would win.
The other eight errors, however, were all cases in which Trumps performance was underestimated, including Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Wisconsin. Some of these states had been correctly predicted to go to Trump (like Missouri and Ohio), but the differences were larger than anticipated. Some of these states eventually went to Clinton (like Minnesota), but the margins were much smaller than expected. Ultimately, however, the unexpected differences in states like Pennsylvania and Michigan (which, for the record, still has not been called) moved the celebration from the Javits Center to Trump Tower.
Republican political consultant Mike Murphy suggested, Tonight, data died. He pointed to a very real failure of election forecasting, but his quote suggests a problem with statistics. In fact, however, the problem was in the failure to obtain representative random samples.
The error in 1948 was because many voters did not have telephones. A random sample restricted to homes with telephones might totally misrepresent the political tendencies of homes without telephones. The homes without phones generally had fewer economic resources and different voting priorities. The failure to use random representative polls of all potential voters resulted in the faulty prediction.
Although some will suggest that the polls were intentionally rigged, the fact that the error in Nevada was in the opposite direction suggests otherwise. Pollsters were trying to get an accurate read. In fact, the polling has been extremely accurate in recent elections. Based on the polling data in 2004, for example, I successfully predicted the winner in every single state.
What has changed? In 2016 we use our telephones differently than we did historically. In the past, when my phone rang, I answered it. I answered when my hands were wet, as I washed the dishes, or were dirty with grease, as I attempted to change my oil. After years of robo-calls, however, I no longer answer my phone until and unless I decide whether or not I want to talk to the caller. I check the caller ID, and I practice personal control over how I use my phone.
As a consequence, it is progressively more difficult for pollsters to complete a representative random sample of voter behavior. Our polls are more likely to predict how people who do not use caller ID will behave. It is possible that people who seek more control over their telephones might tend to be the same sort of people who seek more control over their government and other areas of their private lives.
The 2016 poll numbers might have been rigged, but not through any intentional work by the media. Rather, they were unintentionally rigged by the realistic hurdles faced by behavioral scientists, as they seek to explain and understand human behavior.
Even if we are able to fix the research methodology, it is important to remember that statistics always include a margin of error. The data only provide insights into the world. Like the weather forecast, they are not intended to provide any guarantees. Stephen Kings comment about statistical analysis is right on target: in his novel, 11/22/63, King writes: Theres always a window of uncertainty.
It is progressively more difficult for pollsters to complete a representative random sample of voter behavior. Our polls are more likely to predict how people who do not use caller ID will behave.
Caroline Cuzeau was scrolling through her Facebook feed when she saw a photo of a dog in need, she quickly contacted the original poster. Two weeks later, 'Charlie' made the trip from Elazig, Turkey to Longmeadow.
"We've got to do something for him," Cuzeau said. "It was just one step after the next. We're going to save this puppy, that's it."
Charlie is one of many Golden Retrievers abandoned in Turkey. They were once considered a status symbol by the wealthy in Turkey, but as they grow up, the dogs become seen as less valuable and left on the streets, according to Golden Retriever Rescue of the Rockies.
The rescue also said there aren't many shelters for the dogs to go to and the conditions there aren't very good. According to CNN, nobody knows how many street dogs live in Turkey, with estimations ranging anywhere from 70,000 to 150,000 in Istanbul alone.
This particular rescue is one of many flying these "Turkey dogs" from poor conditions internationally to the States for adoption. Sometimes, they're already adopted before they ever get on a plane.
But for Cuzeau, the adoption was done by word of mouth and a lot of help from two women, Turkan Ceylan and Hale Naiboglu Karabicakli. They helped get Charlie from the shelter in Elazig to Istanbul, for his international flight and eventually to the United States.
Dogs, however, can't fly internationally by themselves. So, Cuzeau asked people and local colleges to share a post, looking for anyone flying from Istanbul to the United States. To Charlie's luck, a flight captain happened to be flying to Boston and volunteered.
Karabicakli said it's not that easy for other dogs. She currently has 26 other dogs in Istanbul she's looking for volunteers to help fly to the United States. She said she often works with rescues in Washington D.C., New York, San Francisco, Atlanta and Chicago.
"They are ready to fly, it all depends when I can find flight volunteers," Karabicakli said.
For Charlie, the entire thing, including flights, shuttles and a vet visit, Cuzeau said, was comparable to many adoption fees she's seen. For healthy dogs, Karabicakli estimates the cost to be between 700 to 800 dollars. But, she said, if the dog is very sick it can cost a lot more.
Now Charlie is making himself right at home with Cuzeau's two daughters and other dog, Louis, who is also a rescue from Philadelphia. He's even already learned multiple commands in English.
Cuzeau now encourages other people to look into pet adoption, domestic or international.
"Adoption's always great, it doesn't really matter where," Cuzeau said.
Although she originally just wanted to help a dog she saw on Facebook, Cuzeau said it turned into a lot more than that. She met many helpful people from around the world along the way, which really inspired her.
"There are still good people," Cuzeau said.
Editor's note: The story has been updated to include comments from Hale Naiboglu Karabicakli.
noguera.jpg
Noguera is being charged with murder for allegedly shooting a man in Easton and leaving him for dead in the woods.
EASTON -- A 47-year-old Florida man was the one who allegedly shot and left someone to die in a wooded area of Easton last week, authorities say.
Working in coordination with South Carolina police, members of the Massachusetts State Police tracked down Michael Arthur Noguera and arrested him in a trailer in Conway, S.C., on Saturday.
Noguera, of Lehigh Acres, Fla., is being charged with murder-after-the-fact, armed robbery and larceny over $250.
On Tuesday, a pair of boys on a bike ride found the body of Daniel Smith, 35, about 25 yards into a wooded area of Easton. Smith had been shot in the head and left to die.
The boys' mother reported the grisly find to Easton Police.
First responders rushed Smith to Good Samaritan Hospital in Brockton. He was then flown by a medical helicopter to Brigham and Women's Hospital, in Boston, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities said Noguera is being charged in South Carolina as a fugitive from justice and will appear in Horry County Court later today. Noguera will be offered the choice to face extradition, which he can try to fight to delay his return to Massachusetts.
Wrangling over an issue veterans that often receives bipartisan support, the legislation died on a vote of 56-41, with only two Republicans voting for it.
Gregg Zoroya , USA TODAY
Full Story: http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/02/27/veterans-legislation-bernie-sanders-senate/5859217/
Marchers in Barcelona on Sunday. CARLES RIBAS
Thousands of people marched in Barcelona on Sunday in support of Catalan politicians being investigated by the Spanish justice system for their pro-independence actions.
The local police placed the number of protesters at 80,000. Demonstrators waving esteladas unofficial flags symbolizing an independent Catalonia filled up Maria Cristina Avenue and cut off Plaza de Espana to cries of For democracy, Independence and Out with Spanish justice.
This is a long-distance race, and we are in the final stretch
Neus Lloveras, head of AMI
The pro-independence crowd was there to show support for around a dozen elected officials and 250 town halls across Catalonia currently under investigation by the Spanish courts.
Public officials are under scrutiny for actions ranging from organizing the non-binding independence referendum of November 9, 2014, to failing to fly the Spanish flag from town halls.
Participating in the march were all the high-profile politicians under investigation, including former Catalan premier Artur Mas and his aides Joana Ortega, Irene Rigau and Francesc Homs, who allegedly helped organize the 2014 referendum deemed illegal by Madrid.
Mas faces a possible 10-year ban from public office for his role in organizing the vote while Ortega and Rigau could face bans of nine years.
Artur Mas, Irene Rigau and Joana Ortega are under investigation over the 2014 referendum. Albert Garcia
Other familiar faces included Carme Forcadell, speaker of the Catalan assembly, who is charged with disobedience for allowing a house vote on the sovereignty issue, and two representatives from the far-left, pro-sovereignty CUP party who have been charged with sedition.
Promoters of the march sought to portray the accused as champions of democracy whose only crime was to obey the will of the Catalan people rather than unfair Spanish laws, and whose fundamental rights are being violated by the Constitutional Court in Madrid.
Standing against giant letters spelling out disobedience, a group of Catalan celebrities read out a list of regional laws that have recently been struck down or put on hold by the Spanish courts on issues ranging from the independence drive to the ban on bullfighting.
Prominent pro-sovereignty leaders also warned Madrid that the protests will continue for as long as it takes.
This is not just about marching on September 11 (National Day of Catalonia) or on historic occasions. This is about democracy and about our future as it began. The time has come for permanent mobilization, said Jordi Cuixart, president of Omnium Cultural, a pro-independence civic association.
Neus Lloveras, president of the Association of Pro-Independence Municipalities (AMI), noted that Spanish authorities have opened 400 legal proceedings against local officials in Catalonia over failure to fly the Spanish flag and other related issues.
This is a long-distance race, and we are in the final stretch. Its either a referendum or a referendum, she said, alluding to the pro-sovereignty camps desire for a new, binding referendum on independence.
The current Catalan premier, Carles Puigdemont, attended a parallel demonstration in his home town of Amer (Girona) and said that in Catalonia, there is a democrat in every corner standing ready to defend the Catalan institutions and their elected officials.
English version by Susana Urra.
Around 50 people attacked the off-duty officers outside this bar in Alsasua, Navarre.
At least eight people have been arrested in relation to the attack on two off-duty members of the Civil Guard and their girlfriends in the small community of Alsasua, in Spains northern Navarre region on October 15.
The suspects detained are said to be members of the radical left-wing Basque nationalist OSPA movement, which backs the Alde Hemendik (get out of here) campaign targeting Spains Civil Guard and Navarres regional police force.
Anti-terrorist sources told EL PAIS the five arrests took place early on Monday morning at various homes in Alsasua. The investigation is still open, the same sources said.
The arrests come a month after a group attack in which 50 people all supporters of Basque independence beat up two off-duty civil guards and their girlfriends. All four needed hospital treatment, with one of the officers sustaining a fractured ankle.
The government of Navarre, which is currently headed by the left-leaning Uxue Barkos, condemned the attack, saying it has no place in a democratic society.
Spains High Court launched an investigation into the attack, saying it fell under Spanish terrorism legislation. So far, 12 people have been identified in relation to the assault.
The incident, which came just before the fifth anniversary of the announcement of a definitive ceasefire by Basque terror group ETA, has illustrated the complexities of peaceful coexistence in municipalities with a strong presence of radical Basque nationalists, and of Navarres place within the wider Basque homeland that these activists claim independence for.
Alsasua has long been viewed as a bastion of radical Basque nationalists known as the abertzale, and has a long history of attacks against people and property. The mid-October assault is the latest chapter in an ongoing story of violent incidents that appeared to have subsided following the ETA ceasefire.
Radical nationalist circles claimed the attack had been invented to undermine their movement. Some protestors used the Basque phrase Alde hemendik (get out of here) at law enforcement officers in the area.
English version by George Mills and Nick Lyne.
Spanish police arrest an Irish national last September in Marbella. Garda (Policia de Irlanda)
Spains National Police and Civil Guard have identified 440 organized crime groups operating in the country, part of a network of some 3,600 at work throughout the European Union. At least 10 of these are classified as high intensity: that is, they have been operating for more than three years; they have at least 20 members (the average is from 11 to 20 individuals); they have one main area of activity, but also work in other related areas; and they are multinational, sometimes contracting out services to other gangs.
Typically, these criminals will have created legitimate front companies through which to launder their ill-gotten gains. Last week, Spanish police arrested a businessman on the island of Mallorca: he had a construction company and a business managing slot machines. He was married and his children went to private schools. For the last three years he had been smuggling some 150 kilograms of cocaine onto the Balearic island each year, subcontracting distribution to local Gypsy families. In total, seven people were arrested.
Crime is a multi-million dollar business in Europe growing thanks to the internet Rob Wainwright, director of Europol
These types of arrangements normally last around three years and tend to operate in big cities or tourist destinations, where their activities do not stand out, say police, adding that these gangs work in networks often set up in prison.
The majority of criminal gangs operating in Spain are dealing in drugs, say police: Colombians, cocaine, Moroccans, hashish, and the Turks, heroin, says one officer. Fraud is another activity, along with money laundering, followed by people trafficking, prostitution, burglary and theft of luxury cars. Again, some nationalities specialize in certain activities: Colombians: drugs and jewelry; Russians and Georgians, burglary and luxury cars, along with money laundering; the Chinese, prostitution and people trafficking; Pakistanis and Syrians, falsification of documents; Bulgarians, weapons says the same source.
Since 2014, when Spain set up CITCO, the Intelligence Center against Terrorism and Organized Crime, some 250 connections have been made linking organized crime and terrorism.
Structures are changing: there are no more leaders, there are cells, flexible groups that assign people particular responsibilities and that are active in different markets so as to keep their options open, says a police source.
Spains police say that the first criminal groups to operate in Spain were offshoots of the Italian mafia, which moved here in the 1970s as Spains economy began opening up.
Typically, these gangs will have created legitimate front companies
Since then, Italys four main mafias, the Sicilian Cosa Nostra, the Ndrangheta from Calabria, the Neapolitan Camorra, and the Sacra Corona Unita, from Puglia have all established a strong presence in Spain.
Between 1999 and 2009, a third of all arrests of mafia members took place in Spain. Italian mafias also benefited from Spains construction boom: the Italian authorities calculate that it developed the equivalent of some 50 kilometers of Spanish coastline.
Following in the footsteps of the Italians, as Spain became an important logistics and distribution point for drugs shipments into the rest of Europe and an easy place to launder money, Turkish criminal gangs moved here during the 1980s, supplying drugs and weapons. They were soon followed by the Colombian drug cartels, with Spain becoming the main entry point for cocaine into Europe. Since then, say police, the cartels have managed to find other countries in Europe through which to ship drugs.
In recent years, Irish criminal gangs have also begun operating from Spains Costa del Sol, shipping weapons and drugs throughout Europe.
Rob Wainwright, the director of Europol, describes organized crime as a multi-million dollar business in Europe and that is growing thanks to the internet and mobile technologies, the proliferation of clandestine global routes and the opportunities that the global economic crisis offers. All this has contributed to the creation of a greater threat.
Spain also faces a threat from the Colombian peace process, say some experts. There are between 8,000 and 12,000 former guerrillas who will have no work if the peace process goes ahead, says one expert. Others point to the growing presence in Spain of members of the Mexican cartels, which are increasing their shipments into this country.
English version by Nick Lyne.
There is a new man of God in town and he is providing leadership to a church that has long needed it.
Pastor William Hill, 50, is now the full-time preacher for Landis Presbyterian Church on U.S. 221 North. While still in seminary school, he would travel to Marion to preach at Landis until February when they asked him to stay.
They have a long history here, but as what usually happens, when you lose a pastor you lose people, he told The McDowell News. They have been without a pastor here for six years. I want to let people know that we exist, we have been here a long time and our greatest desire as a church is to minister to the community.
Hill was called to the pulpit after spending years in retail management which he said is no life for anybody.
This is my first time pastoring a church. It was a midlife change, but I always wanted to do ministry, he said.
Hill is originally from New York, but moved to Virginia in 1998 with his wife to raise their three children. When they all left the nest, Hill decided to follow one of his lifelong dreams. He grew up in a Baptist church and his wife was Roman Catholic before they both converted.
I have been southernized after 16 years in the south and its been good to me. We live right in town in Marion in a small little house. We dont need much, said Hill. I have a real heart for the job, the community and to minister to people however they need. There is a lot of hurt out there.
Landis currently has about 20 members, but in the churchs history there have been close to 90 at one time. There are two services on Sunday, including a meal after the morning service.
Our core mission as a church is what I call historic Christianity. Our central issue in worship every week is the unapologetic preaching of Gods word. We live in a society where everything is so informal that its a shock for some to come here because we are very formal. But, we are very friendly and very loving and reach out to people as much as we can, he said.
Hill describes himself as a call it the way he sees it kind of guy and thats the kind of message he portrays in his sermons.
If people are looking for a serious place of worship where they are going to hear Gods word preached and sing Gods praises, this is the place to be. If you are looking to be entertained, there are other places to go and I encourage that.
He preaches from the English Standard Version of the Bible because he says its faithful to the original language.
The Bible teaches that worship is the most important thing that we will do all week. We take worshipping God seriously. A worship that is rich and full of Gods present and glory will result in a life that is much richer. We are trying to grow the church on Sundays to get people here and get people excited about what we are doing here, said Hill.
The church is located at 4975 U.S. 221 North in Marion. Sunday school begins at 10 a.m. and worship begins at 11 a.m. with a meal following. The afternoon service starts at 2:30 p.m. Visit their Web site at www.landispca.org, call 828-623-9192, or email wfhill@landispca.org to learn more.
BOX: History of Landis Presbyterian
On May 27, 1923, a Presbyterian Sunday school was organized at Hicks Chapel by the Rev. J.C. Story, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Marion. The Sunday School was moved December 18, 1927 to Toms Creek School House on the farm of W.E. Landis who gave the Sunday School free use of the school house. On the third Sunday in October 1933, the Landis Presbyterian Church was organized with 35 charter members and was enrolled in Concord Presbytery. Story was the first pastor in 1938. The present church building was completed in April 1947.
Former Veracruz government Javier Duarte faces charges of money laundering and organized crime. Marco Ugarte (AP)
More information Un testaferro del exgobernador mexicano Duarte compro un piso de lujo en Madrid
The tentacles of a Mexican politician on the run reach as far as Spain.
A businessman named Moises Mansur Cysneiros, considered a frontman for ex-governor Javier Duarte de Ochoa, purchased a luxury home in downtown Madrid in 2014.
The 403-square-meter home was bought for 4 million through a holding company, an EL PAIS investigation has discovered.
Mansur is a key figure in the system set up by Duarte, a governor of the Mexican state of Veracruz who went missing on October 15 after feeling cornered by growing suspicion that he misappropriated $26 million from Veracruzs state coffers.
I dont even have his cellphone number. Honestly we have no idea where he is
Daniel Duarte, brother to Javier
The Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) politician left behind a $837 million hole in the public accounts in a state that is notorious for its high rate of violence against women, journalists and activists.
The Mexican government is offering a $700,000 reward for leads about Duartes whereabouts.
The link between Mansur and the Mexican politician became even more evident when it emerged that the businessman had made Duarte his heir, and that he had given a credit card to Duartes wife, Karime Macias.
The luxury home takes up the third floor of a stately, early 20th-century building situated on Alfonso XII street, across from Retiro Park. This is one of the most expensive areas of the capital, where the square meter goes for as much as 10,000.
The building (concealed by a construction screen) where Mansur bought a luxury home. Uly Martin
Last week, the last remaining unit in the building was selling for 5 million.
Mansur purchased the property in March 2014 through the holding firm Worfolk Solutions SL. A Madrid law firm provided legal advice for an operation that required taking out a 2 million mortgage.
He had no trouble securing the loan. He was a Triple A client, said sources familiar with the transaction.
The businessman also paid 900,000 in refurbishment work and around 500,000 in fees associated with the sale.
Mansur arrived in Spain in 2010, presenting himself as a wealthy Mexican businessman in search of a suitable home. Duarte, for his part, was familiar with Madrid from his student days, when he took a graduate course at the Ortega y Gasset Foundation. And his wife Karime Macias presented her dissertation before a committee at Madrids Complutense University in 2014.
Mansurs Madrid purchase joins a list of around 20 exclusive properties in Houston and Miami with ties to the former governor through a complex web of companies and frontmen.
International investigation
On July 29, Mexican prosecutors sent the Spanish Justice Ministry a request for assistance, asking authorities here to investigate a complaint filed by a Mexican politician regarding Duartes alleged use of frontmen to acquire property in Spain.
The complaint, to which EL PAIS has had access, was filed by Miguel Angel Yunes, a deputy for Mexicos National Action Party (PAN) who names 36 individuals he suspects could be acting as go-betweens for Duarte.
He had no trouble securing the loan. He was a Triple A client
Source familiar with sale
The petition focuses most specifically on Duartes brother Daniel, his mother Cecilia de Ochoa Guasti, and his wife Karime Macias Tubilla. Mexican authorities asked Spain to provide financial information regarding any bank accounts or financial assets being held or controlled by these individuals in Spain.
Daniel Duarte, the ex-governors brother, lives in the Basque city of Bilbao where he runs a bed-and-breakfast and three apartments through two registered companies.
Ive been living in Spain for over 15 years. I bought the B&B three years ago and I have a mortgage like everyone else, he told EL PAIS. I put a lot of effort into my business. I man the desk, make the beds, clean the bathrooms and take the linen to the laundromat. Im not a millionaire, I dont even own a car. I work for a living. My brother has nothing to do with this property.
Daniel Duarte left Mexico at age 22 and says he does not keep in touch with his brother.
I went to the other end of the world so I could lead my own life. I dont want anything to do with all this, he says. I havent seen him since January, when I traveled to Mexico to visit my mother. I dont even have his cellphone number. Honestly, we have no idea where he is.
English version by Susana Urra.
Colombias government signed a revised peace deal with the countrys leftist FARC rebels on Saturday. A copy of the new agreement, which comes six weeks after a referendum that rejected a historic deal ending more than five decades of conflict, was released on Sunday evening. The government and the FARC, which have been holding talks in Havana for four years, said they had incorporated proposals from the opposition, religious leaders and other civil society groups.
Colombian's celebrate the new peace deal. G. LEGARIA (AFP)
More information El nuevo acuerdo de paz en Colombia incluye reclamos del no sin cambiar los asuntos mas controvertidos
But the new deal will not modify a controversial part of the accord that gives the FARC 10 congressional seats through to 2026 or prevent rebel leaders from eventually being elected to political posts.
President Juan Manuel Santos now hopes to unite his divided nation behind the new deal after the peace process was endangered by its rejection in the October plebiscite. Colombian voters were deeply split, with many worried the FARC would not be punished for crimes and others hopeful the deal would cement an end to violence. The referendum was rejected by some 54,000 votes.
Campaigners against the original peace deal, signed on September 26, led by former president Alvaro Uribe, put forward some 400 proposals included in 57 main areas that have been negotiated over the last month with FARC representatives in Havana, Cuba.
The revised accord will be sent to Congress rather than being put to another referendum
Among the proposals the government and the FARC have accepted is that foreign magistrates will be removed from special peace tribunals, although foreign observers will remain. At the same time, the FARC must provide full disclosure about its involvement in drug trafficking.
Furthermore, the work of the special tribunals will be limited to 10 years and any investigations must be opened within two years of the new deal being approved. Concerns over lenient sentences for FARC fighters confessing to crimes was one of the major reasons Colombians voted against the deal in October.
Other modifications to the peace deal include requiring the rebels to present an inventory of acquired money and holdings, which will be used to compensate victims. There are also provisions of safeguards for land and property owners as part of agrarian reform in the countryside.
Another controversial aspect of the original deal related to women and the LGBT community, which noted that their experiences during the conflict had been different, and thus calling for special reparations for women and LGBT victims. This was seized on by conservative opponents to the peace deal as an attempt to undermine so-called traditional family values and structures in Colombian society, privileging the LGBT community.
The FARC must provide full disclosure about its involvement in drug trafficking
In the new text, the question of LGBT rights has been diluted, although it still spells out that all Colombians have the same rights under the law, regardless of their sexual orientation, age, gender, or creed.
The revised accord is expected to be sent to Congress rather than being put to another referendum.
Formed in 1964, the FARC reached prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. At its peak, it was Latin Americas largest and best-equipped militant organization, with an estimated 20,000 fighters that managed to gain control over large areas of territory. Its five-decade struggle with the government claimed more than 220,000 lives and has seen up to eight million people displaced.
English version by Nick Lyne.
by Stephanie Dressler , Op-Ed Contributor, November 14, 2016
By now the narrative is clear: The outcome of Tuesdays election was a surprise to many individuals in the U.S. and around the world and to supporters of both political parties.
In any instance when a predicted outcome is proven wrong there is a reflection period, which often sparks a curiosity. Presidential campaigns have used the Internet to support their efforts dating back to 1996, and the role of the Internet and social networks on election outcomes has significantly picked up over the past several election cycles.
Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg estimated that over 2 million people registered to vote after seeing a reminder on Facebook this year, and Pew estimates that in 2016 the majority of U.S. adults (62%) get their news from social media channels.
As a population, we know the impact social media can have in shaping election outcomes, particularly since Obamas successful 2008 campaign.
As social networks, including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, become increasingly influential in shaping public opinion, these networks evolved to take on more control of how information is shared, sorted and prioritized.
The Evolution of Facebooks Algorithm
To understand how we got here, its worth looking back at the history of Facebooks algorithm. In 2009, Facebook debuted a new type of default sorting order, based on popularity, which was quantified by engagement on each post.
Subsequent updates were made in 2013, 2015 and 2016. Each update refined further which information users would see in their newsfeed, as Facebook attempted to provide users with more personalized content that met their interests.
This also allowed Facebook to target advertising to specific users based on geographic location, age, hobbies and interests, which is Facebooks key advertising value proposition. This targeting also applies to political beliefs.
The issues created or reinforced by Facebooks algorithm are three-fold:
Much of the news shared on Facebook is biased and coming from biased or fake news sites. Individuals with no political affiliation were rolling out Web sites and sharing biased news simply to turn a profit.
For example, BuzzFeed reported over 100 pro-Trump sites being run by teenagers in Macedonia who say they dont care about Donald Trump and are simply responding to straightforward economic incentives. These individuals were publishing sensationalist and often false content that caters to Trump supporters to up their Web traffic.
Many of these Facebook sites have hundreds of thousands of followers and Buzzfeed's research found that the most successful stories from these sites were nearly all false or misleading.
This creates an echo chamberinside and outside of politics.
Its unclear how Facebook assigns political affiliation to an individual. Individuals are increasingly using Facebook as their only source of news and information because they expect to consume a large and diverse variety of research, news and opinion all in one place.
Since how the inner workings of the process are not fully understood, undecided voters may take certain actions, like commenting on or sharing a piece of partisan information, which could potentially skew the content that is directed to them on a moving forward basis.
The biggest issue is that users dont have control of their own journey, based on their actions. Its not possible to protect how users newsfeeds evolve based on the actions they take.
The biggest concern: the majority of Facebook users likely have little to no understanding of the social net's algorithm and may not realize the content they see is being uniquely targeted to them. Most users also are not able to discern the authority of the news and whether its biased.
Fact vs. Fiction
The amount of fake or fictional content floating around on social networks is also a growing concern, particularly coupled with Facebooks algorithm that gives more authority to posts that receive more engagement.
Facebook has created a report fake news button that is meant to allow users to help Facebook screen and remove false news and information from the site. The problem is that many users dont fact check information before they share it; the current algorithm can allow false information to become viral in a short period. Significant and irreversible damage can be done in a matter of minutes
What is the Solution?
Social media users have no responsibility to verify information or vet the information they share.
The question then lies in the responsibility of social networks to act as a responsible third party in terms of what content they promote and why. Before algorithms came into play, it would be harder to make this point, but as soon as social networks began organizing and and prioritizing information for users, they assumed some responsibility for virality of content.
Googles algorithms incorporate many variables, but credibility of news sources plays a significant role in rankings. Moving forward, Facebook may consider ranking news sources for validity and indicate the rank on posts, or prioritizing credible news sources over less credible ones. Better measures must also be put in place to remove false information and a more effective system should be implemented to let users know if they shared something that was factually untrue.
by Thom Forbes @tforbes, November 14, 2016
Connecting instantaneously to the rapidly evolving automotive market, Samsung is acquiring Harman International Industries for about $8 billion in a deal announced by both companies this morning. Samsung has scheduled a call and webcast about the acquisition for 8 a.m. ET.
When the deal closes mid-2017 is the target date Stamford, Conn.-based Harman will operate as an independent subsidiary of Samsung under the leadership of Dinesh Paliwal, who is currently chairman, president and CEO. He has run it since company co-founder Sidney Harman retired in 2007.
The vehicle of tomorrow will be transformed by smart technology and connectivity in the same way that simple feature phones have become sophisticated smart devices over the past decade, Young Sohn, the president and chief strategy officer of Samsung Electronics, says in the release announcing the deal.
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Founded in 1953, Harman is the market leader in connected car solutions, with more than 30 million vehicles currently equipped with its connected car and audio systems, including embedded infotainment, telematics, connected safety and security, according to the statement.
Paliwal has pushed aggressively into the automotive world and has secured billions in new business, including big contracts with General Motors Co. and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV, Mike Ramsey and Jeff Bennett wrote for the Wall Street Journal in a piece last January.
Samsung doesnt plan to make cars itself, according to people familiar with executives thinking, but the company sees automotive technology, and the broader shift toward connected, driverless vehicles, as a promising growth area to sell more of its semiconductors, display panels and mobile services, the WSJs Jonathan Cheng writes this morning.
Samsungs third-generation heir, Lee Jae-yong, has sat on the board of directors of Exor SpA, the controlling shareholder of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV, for the past four years, and Samsung last year assembled a task force to look into different ways to jump into the automobile world, Cheng continues.
With the Harman acquisition, it will be fully immersed.
Approximately 65% of Harmans $7.0 billion of reported sales during the 12 months ended September 30, 2016 are automotive-related, and its order backlog for this market at June 30, 2016 was approximately $24 billion, the release states.
Bt the impetus for the deal is clearly not just what is already on the books.
Samsung said that it would also have access to Harmans designers and engineers, which would allow for more collaboration on the so-called Internet of Things, in which devices and electronics can be connected to the Internet. It did not give details on what sorts of services they would aim to build together, Amie Tsang writes for the New York Times.
IOT is still much of a buzzword, but Samsung said it plans to utilize Harmans 8,000 developers to deliver the next generation of cloud-based consumer and enterprise experiences, as well as end-to-end services for the automotive market through the convergence of design, data and devices, Jon Russell writes for TechCrunch.
Harman has also diversified into software development and components for connected cars. Much of that has been done on the shoulders of major acquisitions such as a $780 million deal last year for Mountain View, Calif.-based software services company Symphony Teleca, the WSJs Ramsey and Bennett reported.
The South Korean companys push into the automotive world will likely bring it into competition with other tech giants like Google and Apple, writes James Vincent for The Verge.
Although much of the focus on Silicon Valleys car ambitions has been on self-driving capabilities, outfitting vehicles with more prosaic connected technology could be more immediately lucrative. Earlier this year it was reported that Apple had scaled back its car initiative, dropping plans to build its own electric vehicle in favor of developing software for existing automakers, Vincent continues.
Sidney Harman an engineer by training and a fitness buff and patron of the arts by avocation, died in 2011 at age 92. He had been undersecretary of the Commerce Dept. in the Carter Administration and purchased Newsweek magazine from the Washington Post less than a year before his death from acute myeloid leukemia.
Co-founder Bernard Kardon, an engineer who had been Harmans boss at David Bogen & Co., sold his half of the company to the latter in 1956. The had each put up $5,000 to launch the company. Kardon died in 1993.
by Sara Guaglione , November 14, 2016
has shut down its weekly print edition after nearly 30 years in print. The paper, owned by President-elect Donald Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner, will live online only.
No staff layoffs are planned.
Joseph Meyer, the chairman and chief executive of Observer Media, the publications parent company, told TheNew York Times the decision was based on the papers shifted focus on a national audience and the decline in print advertising revenue.
New York will be dropped from the title to reflect this shift and to match the name of the Web site, which rebranded to Observer.com in 2015.
Observer.com received 5.6 million unique visitors in September, nearly twice its audience from the year before, according to comScore data.
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We reach more people in an hour online than we reach in a week through print and will continue to focus on bringing our content to readers wherever they are, via new digital, social and mobile platforms, Meyer wrote in a memo to readers.
According to the company, 85% of the traffic from its site comes from outside New York. Several freelance writers at the New York Observer were let go on Friday, along with one of the papers editors.
Meyer said the last issue of the Observer was printed on November 9.
While some may speculate that Kushner wants to focus on helping Trump in the White House, Meyer, who is Kushner's brother-in-law, said the decision had been two years in the making and was not related to Trump's election last week.
This week, Kushner, who is married to Trumps daughter Ivanka, was named part of the 16-person presidential transition team. He was a key adviser to the candidate during the campaign and at one point, there were reports that Trump and Kushner planned to launch a new conservative TV network.
The weekly paper was founded in 1987 by former investment banker Arthur Carter. The New York Observer aimed to follow city culture, media, politics and real estate for an audience mostly concentrated in Manhattans wealthy Upper East Side.
In the mid-1990s, the paper featured Candace Bushnells column, the inspiration behind popular HBO series Sex and the City."
Kushner acquired the paper in 2006 when he was just 25 years old.
Newspaper coverage of New York City is being cut back dramatically this year. The Wall Street Journalis folding its Greater New York section into the main section of the paper, cutting its coverage in half and laying off some of its metro staff. The New York Times cut back its Metro coverage and The New York Daily News announced new layoffs last week.
by Laurie Sullivan , Staff Writer @lauriesullivan, November 14, 2016
Google and Microsoft redefined the definition of search through messaging technology like chatbots and apps for mobile and desktop by making a case that it can reach across a brand's or retailer's Web site to find and return information on consumer queries.
Messaging creates a new form of search advertising simply by returning information based on chatbot queries. At the Bing Ads Next event in Redmond, Washington last week, Microsoft demonstrated how companies like airline ticket site Skyscanner as well as Delta Airlines, in a demo, use a chatbot by pulling information from their Web site to answer questions. Microsoft also demonstrated a chatbot that serves up on bing.com in search results. A restaurant called Moksha is testing the technology in the Redmond, Washington area.
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As consumers warm up to the idea of talk to machines, for brands, agencies and developers integrating the data from chatbots becomes one of the biggest challenges. The disparate systems do not communicate with each other. Apple focuses on Siri, Google on Allo, and Microsoft on Cortana. This next step not too far into the future will play out in a way that is similar to the integration of advertising channels such as mobile, desktop and television.
Nearly one-third of consumers 28.9% prefer to use a chatbot rather than the 29% who prefer to pick up the phone or the 27% who prefer to email when interacting with retailers, according to [24]7, a provider of chatbot and human agent assistance for retailers, released Monday.
Break down the numbers in the study A Retailer's Guide to Chatbots, Live Chat and Messaging and Millennials lead when it comes to adopting chat technology chatbots and apps. Some 37% of survey respondents ages 18 to 34 rank chat as their favorite way to contact companies when making a purchase, with 30% choosing online chat and 7% selecting messaging apps.
Overall, 39% of consumers are open to interacting with a chatbot in a retail scenario, but when the study broke that down by demographics, it found that only 9% of Millennials prefer to always interact with a chatbot compared with a human. Millennials, at 40%, prefer to use a messaging app.
Surprisingly, the ability to chat online or through a mobile device has surpassed the use of using a phone and sending an email as the most popular way for consumers to interact with retailers, according to the [24]7 study.
While customer service seems to be the most popular use for online chat applications such as messaging and chatbots, a study from Support.com found a home for the technology in tech support.
The study found that Millennials are 75% more comfortable using chatbots, compared with Baby Boomers, when it comes to tech support. Millennials also are 138% more likely than Baby Boomers to believe that chatbots are better because they can respond faster than a live agent.
About 60% know when they are interacting with a machine for tech support and they are not comfortable with it, with 71% of Baby Boomers and 65% of women saying that they agree.
Not all respondents believe chatbots improve tech support. In fact 81% dont think chatbots improve tech support interactions or respond faster than a live agent, according to the Support.com study.
The survey of 2,000 consumers reveals consumers' expectations for more personalized and automated technology support in the near future. The study focuses on technical support, but through the numbers marketers get a clear picture of consumers' views on chatbots.
Brands that are planning to implement a chatbot to support consumers online will have many issues to consider. Humanizing technology through virtual assistants and chatbots will not work for all strategies, and will depend on the company's customer base.
Privacy will be one of the biggest issues that brands will need to consider when implementing a chatbot. Some consumers are reluctant to share personal information this way, so companies will need to test the waters before they fully jump in.
by Erik Sass , Staff Writer @eriksass1, November 14, 2016
Clearly, those of us who thought Donald Trump was going to rein in his prolific tweeting now that hes president can think again.
Close on the heels of his stunning upset victory over his Democratic opponent, Secretary Hillary Clinton, Trump unleashed a familiar social media tirade against The New York Times for its latest critical coverage.
After an article published in the NYT recounted some of Trumps many controversial statements specifically, that American allies like Japan and Saudi Arabia may need to develop nuclear weapons Trump took a swipe at the newspaper in typical fashion.
He tweeted: Wow, the @nytimes is losing thousands of subscribers because of their very poor and highly inaccurate coverage of the Trump phenomena.
In many ways, the tweet is routine, with its we never sleep timing (6:16 a.m.) and its ad hominem sniping at a news organization, seeking to discredit it as a source of information with an attack on its business performance.
However familiar the tweet seems at first glance, its a wake-up call for the whole mainstream news media. It shows the president-elect has no intention of changing his approach to newspapers and broadcast news programs he has long condemned as part of a corrupt establishment.
As noted in a previous post, this isnt just evidence of Trumps thin skin, its part of a deliberate strategy to systematically counter negative views and unfavorable reports in the press by directly addressing his own followers.
And although it might seem petty or trivial to some, its a key part of Trumps ability to frame and reframe coverage of himself, thus maintaining control of his narrative. Like his constant looming in the background during the town-hall style debate, by always getting the last word, Trump dominates the picture and stamps the issue with his own analysis, however skewed.
Of course, tweeting these criticisms out to millions of followers will have predictable results, including a whole slew of angry content all over the NYTs social-media accounts and comments sections. In fact, with Wikileaks and an army of hackers also doing Trumps bidding, social media backlash is the least of their worries.
Trumps appointment of Steve Bannon, the former chairman of Breitbart News, which built its following in open opposition to the traditional news media, is a sign of things to come.
Are the NYT and the rest of the news media ready for their new role? It brings them on stage as one of the principal dramatic foils, scapegoats, and above all, hate figures for Donald Trumps presidency.
Its going to be a long four years.
African-Americans have more rigidity of the aorta, the major artery supplying oxygen-rich blood to the body, than Caucasians and Hispanics, according to a study by UT Southwestern Medical Center cardiologists.
The finding is important because African-Americans are the group at greatest risk of high blood pressure and organ damage caused by high blood pressure, and aortic rigidity is associated with high blood pressure.
The study examined data from some 2,500 participants in the Dallas Heart Study, a multi-ethnic population-based cohort. The researchers used two methods to assess stiffness of the aorta, which is the largest artery in the body, running from the top of the left ventricle in the heart down to the abdomen. Both systems of measurement found greater stiffness in the aortas of African-Americans.
"Our demonstration of ethnic differences in arterial stiffness is an important step in understanding the mechanisms that mediate ethnic differences in cardiovascular disease," said Dr. Wanpen Vongpatanasin, Professor of Internal Medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center, and co-senior author of the study, which appears online in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology: Cardiovascular Imaging.
Hispanics in the study had an intermediate level of aortic stiffness, greater than Caucasians, but less than that of African-Americans.
The study found that both African-Americans and Hispanics had smaller diameter aortas, after adjustments were made for weight.
"This finding suggests that there may be a mismatch between aortic diameter and adiposity, which contributes to the increased rigidity," said Dr. Vongpatanasin, who holds the Norman and Audrey Kaplan Chair in Hypertension and the Fredric L. Coe Professorship in Nephrolithiasis in Mineral Metabolism.
Other possible mechanisms underlying the increased levels of aortic stiffness in African-Americans and Hispanics include greater sodium intake among African-Americans and Hispanics, lower intake of potassium, and genetic differences in collagen content. Collagen is a protein fiber that is a key component of connective tissue such as bone and artery walls.
According to figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 43 percent of African-American men and 45.7 percent of African-American women have hypertension, or high blood pressure, compared with 33.9 percent of Caucasian men and 31.3 percent of Caucasian women.
"Hypertension is strongly associated with heart attack and stroke. Our study provides a potential explanation for excess risk of hypertension and resultant organ complication in African-Americans, who are at particularly high risk of cardiovascular disease," said Dr. Vongpatanasin.
The Dallas Heart Study is an ongoing, multi-ethnic epidemiologic study, funded by the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation. More than 6,000 individuals in Dallas County have participated in the study, which has led to more than 200 published papers and key findings about heart disease, cholesterol, and liver disease.
Other UT Southwestern researchers who contributed to this study are Dr. Christopher Maroules, Assistant Instructor; Colby Ayers, Faculty Associate; Dr. Roderick McColl, Associate Professor; Dr. Ronald Peshock, Professor of Radiology and Internal Medicine; and Dr. Akshay Goel, former UT Southwestern fellow.
This works was supported by a grant from the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, and from UT Southwestern's George M. O'Brien Kidney Research Core Center.
Article: Ethnic Difference in Proximal Aortic Stiffness An Observation From the Dallas Heart Study, Akshay Goel, MD; Christopher D. Maroules, MD; Gary F. Mitchell, MD; Ronald Peshock, MD; Colby Ayers, MS; Roderick McColl, PhD; Wanpen Vongpatanasin, MD; Kevin S. King, MD, Journal of the American College of Cardiology: Cardiovascular Imaging, doi:10.1016/j.jcmg.2016.07.012, published 9 November 2016.
Cancer Research UK-funded scientists have discovered that a 'sponge on a string' pill test can identify which people with a condition called Barrett's oesophagus have a low risk of developing oesophageal cancer - sparing them uncomfortable endoscopies.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge gave 468 people who had Barrett's oesophagus a 'sponge on a string' (cytosponge) test. Barrett's oesophagus is a condition that can lead to oesophageal cancer in a small number of people.
They found that the cytosponge test together with additional laboratory tests identified that 35 per cent (162) of people with Barrett's in the study were at a low risk of developing oesophageal cancer.
The results show that patients with Barrett's could be given a cytosponge test by their local GP and monitored, to detect which patients were at low risk of developing cancer, rather than having regular endoscopies at hospital.
This could help save patients' time, as well as reducing the anxiety and discomfort of having endoscopy tests. Endoscopies are expensive and involve putting a camera down the throat to collect a sample of the cells lining the oesophagus for analysis under a microscope.
The cytosponge is a small pill with a string attached that the patient swallows, which expands into a small sponge when it reaches the stomach. This is slowly pulled back up the throat using the string, collecting cells from the oesophagus for analysis.
The researchers tested these cells for two specific genetic markers and changes in the cells that can be used to estimate an individual's risk of developing oesophageal cancer. These results, alongside other information including age and obesity, were used in a mathematical model to classify patients' risk levels.
Barrett's oesophagus is caused by acid reflux. This can occur when acid travels back up the food pipe from the stomach causing symptoms such as heartburn. Cells in the oesophagus can then become damaged over time, leading to Barrett's oesophagus. People with the condition are also monitored for early signs of cancer, which can sometimes be triggered by cell damage.
Lead researcher Professor Rebecca Fitzgerald, based at the MRC Cancer Unit at the University of Cambridge, said: "Most people who have Barrett's oesophagus will not go on to develop oesophageal cancer, but at the moment there is no way of identifying who will and who won't. Our study is the first step in using the cytosponge to answer this question.
"We're assessing the cytosponge test in larger trials next year to understand more about how it can help diagnose oesophageal cancer sooner. Compared with endoscopies performed in hospital, the cytosponge causes minimal discomfort and is a quick, simple test that can be done by your GP."
Jessica Kirby, Cancer Research UK's senior health information manager, said: "It would be good news for patients if the cytosponge test could be used to replace uncomfortable endoscopies for some people.
"Twelve per cent of people with oesophageal cancer survive for at least 10 years, and part of the reason for the lower survival could be that the disease is often diagnosed at a late stage. Research like this helps us to understand more about the disease and could help doctors better predict who is at risk of oesophageal cancer."
The study is published in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology.
Its all very recent. The data is still raw and it will take some time to make sense of this election . Thus, here are just a few points hypotheses, doubts and questions. Certainties, which are few and far between, invite speculation and interpretation about the future. All of this said on Monday, moreover, with the stunner of the Sunday game known and the mistakes of the central defender repeated on TV ad infinitum.
Trump and Obama meet in the Oval Office. Pablo Martinez Monsivais (AP)
The letter from FBI director Comey, about Hillary Clintons emails, changed the dynamic of the campaign just 11 days before the election and exacerbated her vulnerabilities in a way that perhaps had not been seen before. There was no time. As well as closing up the gap, that letter exposed her despair. So much, that the main response was to pull Obama fully into the spotlight of the campaign.
Even more than that, Obama shouldered the weight of the campaign, turning it into a personal issue, almost a referendum on his presidency. This was seen in the many party rallies in North Carolina, a state that he won in 2008 and lost in 2012 despite having staged the party convention in Charlotte, the most important city. Perhaps his own unsettled scores had come to the fore. It is unlikely that Trump is the only highly narcissistic politician.
Perhaps Obamas own unsettled scores had come to the fore. It is unlikely that Trump is the only highly narcissistic politician
If the idea of a referendum was a mistake a positive image and votes are rarely transferable from one politician to another, especially in presidential systems the closing rally in Philadelphia on November 7 was virtually a political suicide which is not the same as a virtual political suicide, given that it was very real. The stage was dominated by the Obamas, both more charismatic than Hillary Clinton, and by Bill Clinton, to whom, whats more, they handed over the microphone. Double error: Bill Clinton has long been a political liability. Al Gore has known this since the year 2000.
By the time Hillary Clinton came on stage as the leading character, she had become supporting cast. And by that time, the audience was already saturated with so many presidents. Her candidacy ended up being presented as a third term, not of one but of two ex-presidents. The problem is that the third period has disappeared from US politics. Society rejects it, a piece of hard data that the pollsters criticized without much basis today have systematically shown.
The last third term was that of Reagan and George H. W. Bush in 1988. The majority of the electorate does not remember this episode or had not yet been born. All of a sudden the image of the Democrats was old. Sixteen years old, to be precise, which is bad news in an election. The word change, which holds immense electoral power, was the exclusive property of Trump.
The data are overwhelming; they need to be processed in order to get an accurate picture. Nonetheless, the pollsters didnt get it as wrong as some are making out. On the morning of the election, they surprised us with a map that showed 15 tossup states thats to say, that could have gone either way. And they were right. It was unprecedented: the historical trend was five or six tossups. The path to victory for Clinton was wider than that of Trump, but also with a level of uncertainty three times higher than usual.
Bill Clinton has long been a political liability. Al Gore has known this since the year 2000
That suggests an election with a realignment, and it will have to be seen whether it lasts or has just been for 2016; namely, a realignment governed by volatility. We are starting to see an explanation, then, for the fact that Hillary Clinton has lost six million of Obamas votes and Trump one million of Romneys. The much talked about polarization didnt happen; the Sanders voter seems to have stayed home on November 8. Apathy and abstention, instead, best capture what happened. In such scenarios the first vote to be lost is the median voter, the moderate who chooses centrist candidates.
Knowing the end of the story, the argument that Sanders could have beaten Trump makes sense. Those six million fewer votes need to be disaggregated on a district level. Because there also must be those from the unionized working class in the Midwest historically Democrat that would explain the result in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan and Wisconsin, the so-called blue wall. In three of those the difference in favor of Trump was just 1%.
But these are just hypotheses. A Sanders nomination could also have activated the conservative electorate, causing the polarization that in the end did not occur. Its a counterfactual, but it serves to debunk the myth of the Clinton electoral machine. Those who went out to protest against Trumps election are probably angrier with their own party. Especially taking into account that in her concession speech Hillary Clinton made clear that she has no plans to go home.
The polarization that did happen, however, was the rural-urban divide, more prominent election after election. Look no further than the electoral map broken down by district, with blue dots on the coasts and from Chicago down the Mississippi valley, and red in the remainder of the country. Trump didnt win in any city with more than a million inhabitants.
Thus, it wasnt down to income nor employment, nor even inequality, given that wages keep on falling in cities as well as in the countryside. Its better to turn to social status and cultural norms. Its the country of the iPhone and Uber versus the country of the Smith & Wesson and the Ford F-150; the cosmopolitan country against nativism; the country of those who hold a passport 48% of the population versus those who do not have the slightest bit of interest in what goes on in the world. Its like reading sociology of the 1960s: a dual country that is consolidated by modernization and the gap keeps widening today. Hard times for democracy.
The much talked about polarization didnt happen; the Sanders voter seems to have stayed home on November 8
The image of the never-ending identity conflicts emerge from the exit polls: racism as the main explanatory variable. Perhaps another reason why the referendum on Obama was a bad idea. A world of contradictions in which 40% of women voted for Trump and Latinos reproduced the historical one-third Republican and two-thirds Democratic. An even greater anomaly: Trump got two percentage points more of the Latino vote than Romney did in 2012. All of this a far cry from the 75% predicted in favor of Clinton, and that would have given her the win. This is the debunking of several myths.
There will be a Trump administration, with its universe of uncertainties and the volatility of his personality. The world wonders whether he will impose tariffs on China, whether there will be reprisals and trade wars, and if this will cause investment to collapse. Additionally, Europe agonizes over the future of NATO. From the Baltic to the Balkans, post-communist Europe looks on with panic.
Latin Americans (and Canadians) fear for the future of NAFTA, as well as for the other five existing commercial agreements. Anti-immigrant xenophobia could reduce remittances, the main source of foreign exchange in many countries of the region; the majority of them, in fact. The Trump effect must also be added to the exhaustion of the super-cycle of commodities.
Within the United States it is plausible to think of a country like that of the 1960s, a divided society but one with a certain mirror image. Thats to say, in the 1960s the civil rights movement fought for its demands and radical students occupied university campuses in protest against the Vietnam war. Today the empowered are those opposed to immigration, with their racist and xenophobic reactions, while the American indignados, Sanders base, feel betrayed.
It is the democratic idea itself that is in crisis, and not just in the United States
The weather report is forecasting conflict, and conflict on the streets. The name of Giuliani in the Justice Department suggests a strong, rough state, a dose of McCarthyism mixed with J. Edgar Hoover namely, an erosion of Constitutional rights and guarantees. Add to the recipe two, maybe three, new justices on the Supreme Court. To put it in terms of American constitutionalism, Andrew Jackson and the concentration of power have resoundingly defeated James Madison and the dispersion of power.
It is the democratic idea itself that is in crisis, and not just in the United States. This is not the first time it also took place during the European interwar period, where it collapsed under fascism and communism, and it suffered in the 1970s, with the conservative response to the radicalization of the previous decade. Democracy is still alive but its far from healthy. Its doing better than in the 1930s, but much worse than in the 1970s. The problem is that liberalism is in a deep coma, and without it there can be no democracy.
Buckle up! This will be a turbulent flight back to hard politics. The liberal internationalism of the 1990s was promising, but short-lived and a long time ago now. In fact, it happened in the previous century.
@hectorschamis
Leprosy in Britain's red squirrels is being caused by the same species of bacteria responsible for human infections, a DNA study has found.
One of the strains - affecting squirrels on Brownsea Island, off England's south coast - shares close similarities with that responsible for outbreaks of the disease in medieval Europe.
Researchers tested 25 samples from red squirrels on the island and found that all were infected with the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae, though not all showed signs of the disease.
The bacteria shared close similarities with a strain discovered in the skeleton of a leprosy victim buried in Winchester 730 years ago. It is also similar to a strain that is endemic in armadillos in southern states of the US.
Scientists say their findings suggest that leprosy has affected red squirrels on Brownsea Island for centuries but stress that the chances of people catching the disease are low.
Red squirrels in other parts of England, Scotland and Ireland are also affected by leprosy. The study found that these animals were infected with another species of the bacteria called Mycobacterium lepromatosis.
DNA analysis revealed that this strain is similar to those found in human cases of leprosy in Mexico and the Caribbean.
The international team - led by the University of Edinburgh - collected samples of the bacteria during post mortems carried out on red squirrels from each of the locations.
Not all of the squirrels that were infected with the bacteria showed symptoms of leprosy. Those that did had swelling and hair loss on the ears, muzzle and feet.
Red squirrels have drastically declined in the UK with fewer than 140,000 remaining. The main threat is from habitat loss and the squirrelpox virus carried by grey squirrels.
The species was re-introduced into Ireland by transfer of animals from England in the early 1800s. The team says their findings suggest that the squirrels transported were likely infected with leprosy at the time.
Researchers say it is unclear whether leprosy poses a significant threat to the future of red squirrels. They have recently launched a major study on Brownsea Island to study the disease.
Human cases of leprosy are virtually unheard of in the UK but the disease continues to affect people in developing countries. The scientists say their findings suggest that animals could be a reservoir for the bacteria in these areas, thwarting efforts to eradicate the disease.
Vet experts from the University's Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies worked with researchers at the Moredun Institute and experts in human leprosy from the Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne in Switzerland. The study is published in the journal Science.
Professor Anna Meredith, of the University of Edinburgh's Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, said: "The discovery of leprosy in red squirrels is worrying from a conservation perspective but shouldn't raise concerns for people in the UK. We need to understand how and why the disease is acquired and transmitted among red squirrels so that we can better manage the disease in this iconic species."
Ongoing research on Brownsea Island is supported by its owners - National Trust and Dorset Wildlife Trust - which manage a large nature reserve on the island. Brownsea will remain open as usual during the four-year project.
Angela Cott, National Trust General Manager for Brownsea Island, said: "Brownsea's wild red squirrel population has been living with leprosy for at least four decades. But by working with the University of Edinburgh and Dorset Wildlife Trust, we hope to understand how best to look after Brownsea's wild red squirrels. Brownsea Island remains a spectacular place for people to see wildlife."
Patients who have been taking statins are likely to survive longer after a cardiac arrest than those who are not taking them, according to research from Taiwan researchers presented during the Resuscitation Science Symposium at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2016.
A study analyzing the records of nearly 138,000 patients who suffered out-of-hospital-cardiac arrest in the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database found that the prior use of statins was associated with higher rates of survival after cardiac arrest than was non-use. Statin users were significantly more likely than non-users to be still alive a year after the episode. Within the statin group, a subgroup of patients with Type 2 diabetes showed the most improvement in survival rate.
The study also found that with the prior use of statins, patients were:
About 19 percent more likely to survive to reach a hospital;
About 47 percent more likely to survive long enough to be discharged from hospital;
50 percent more likely to survive for at least a year afterwards; and
most likely to see a benefit from prior use of statins if they had Type 2 diabetes.
"There is some risk associated with statins, but this study confirms the benefit," said Ping-Hsun Yu, M.D., study senior author and a researcher at the Taipei Hospital Ministry of Health and Welfare in Taiwan.
For patients who have already experienced a heart attack or ischemic stroke, cholesterol-lowering statins are often prescribed to prevent a second cardiovascular event. However, because these drugs can cause significant side effects (most commonly reported are muscle pain and weakness and increased blood sugar levels), the recommendation to use statins for the prevention of a first cardiac arrest or stroke is not clear.
Yu and his colleagues sorted the records according to whether or not the patients had used statins within 90 days of a cardiac event and researchers accounted for gender, age, underlying conditions, years of hospitalization, post-resuscitation factors, and several other variables.
More than 95 percent of the research population in the analysis were Asian, so researchers say these results might not apply to other ethnic groups or to multi-ethnic populations like that of the United States. The pre-existing database also did not distinguish among different dosages or types of statin. A prospect for further study, said Yu, "may be to divide the statins into different subgroups to see if different potencies or types result in different outcomes."
Co-authors are Chien-Hua Huang, M.D.; Min-Shan Tsai, M.D. and Wen-Jone Chen, M.D., Ph.D. Author disclosures are on the abstract.
The National Taiwan University Hospital provided funding for access to the National Health Insurance Research Database.
AMSTERDAM
Nov. 14, 2016
Amsterdam
Europe
Europe's
Amsterdam, Netherlands
November 18-22, 2016
Reinhard Lafrenz
Amsterdam, the Netherlands
The Netherlands
Bernd Liepert
Anne Bajart
Aimee van Wynsberghe
University of Twente
Europe
Europe
Europe
Europe
Richard Kastelein
/PRNewswire-iReach/ --will be the health-tech centre ofwhen European Robotics Week largest robot event will have its central event Robots at Your Service comes to the Marinebase inFromPhoto - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20161113/438666Visitors will have the opportunity to discover how robots can impact the way we work, live, and learn in the future as well as participate in various free and paid workshops (kids and adults), debates, keynote speeches, panels and experience a variety of robots from vendors at the show. There will also be a hackathon on the weekend where participants will prototype robot and Internet of Things (IoT) applications powered by Big Data, AI, and Blockchain that can allow the elderly stay home and remain independent for longer rather than enter care homes."As a result, we need to involve the public, young and old, in the discussion", noted, Secretary General of euRobotics. "With a hackathon, multiple panel sessions and workshops, the future of elderly care will be shapen at Robots at your Service."Under this year's overarching title,, event organisers have worked hard to show a glimpse of a future where robotics will be ubiquitous in everyday life."In the next 10 years more than 20% of Europeans will be 65 or over, with a rapid increase of over-80s. Caring for these people physically, emotionally and mentally will be an enormous undertaking and requires us to think in new ways, using exponential technologies such as robotics, IoT, artificial intelligence and 3D printing." said Jurjen Sohne partner at Stichting Hackitarians, the organisers of the event. "My ambition is to apply technologies in ways that will increase human potential," he added.The opening on the 18November will feature a number of dignitaries from, and EU officials from the European Commission and Parliament, who will welcome and present the ERW to members of the Dutch public. Presenting keynotes, Juha Heikkila (Head of Unit, Robotics & AI at EC), Mady Delveux-Stehres (MEP),(CIO KUKA),(Programme Officer at EC) and(Assistant Professor of Ethics and Technology at the) will express their views for robotics developments and education in. The opening will feature a demonstration of holographic Artificial Intelligence!Twoare planned for the day focusing on Roboethics and Our Robotics Future. The "Roboethics" discussion will serve as a platform to outline some of the main developments in the ethical, legal, and societal aspects of robotics asking the question of how society is to deal with changing relationships with the robotics technology and what we can expect in the future. Dispelling myths about some of the fears people may hold, key experts fromwill deliver an in-depth analysis of the role of robots in society. The day after public talks on women in tech and robots and elderly are planned. For the a detailed schedule and speakers visit:www.robotsatyourservice.comFrom Friday 18till Sunday 20November thewill be available with the latest social, therapeutic and service robots and bots including social humanoid Pepper, therapeutic robot Paro, KUKA LBR, PAL Robotics Tiago, Kompai, 3D printed humanoids InMoov and PLEN2, and a humanoid exoskeleton (https://youtu.be/XFlPvajqZHo).The night of Friday the 18November also sees the opening of the Hack for Healthy Ageing, an elderly-centric,for designers, makers, coders, developers, data scientists, engineers, researchers, students, startups, caretakers, architects, entrepreneurs, or anyone else who believes their skill is valuable in tackling this societal challenge. During a 48-hour hackathon, multidisciplinary talents are going to prototype (ro)bot applications that allow the elderly to remain independent for longer.Inclusivity is a key part of the event and young and old, boys and girls, will be able to experiment and interact with new technologies such as 3D printing in multipleEuropean Robotics Week (ERW) offers one week of various robotics related activities acrossfor the general public. The 2016 event is about translating the public's excitement for robots into valuable educational practice. The central event provides a forum for dialogue on science-driven societal issues, which will help science-conscious citizens to make informed decisions.ERW highlights the growing importance of robotics in various industries and applications as well as focussing on the skills needed in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM).ERW was conceived with the desire of the European Robotics community to grow and bring robotics research and development closer to the public. More than 350,000 people acrosshave been part of ERW in its five years of existence.We are The Hackitarians. We want to make the world a better place. By Hacking It. That is What We Do. We Design, Build and Run Hackathons, Stichting Hackitarians, 31639583979, expathos@gmail.comNews distributed by PR Newswire iReach: https://ireach.prnewswire.comSOURCE Stichting Hackitarians
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"Osteoarthritis is a debilitating disease affecting nearly 30 million patients in the U.S. alone," said Dr. Yazici. The goals for his laboratory's research are "to develop a disease-modifying treatment which will regrow cartilage, while also safely treating the signs and symptoms of this significant patient population."In a 24-week, multicenter, single-dose-escalation, randomized controlled trial, the researchers measured the impact of a single, intra-articular injection of SM04690, a Wnt inhibitor, on pain and function in 61 patients with moderate to severe knee OA. The drug's efficacy was analyzed through Outcomes Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT)-Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) strict responder data."Our impetus for the trial was to analyze OMERACT-OARSI responses to further test the clinical relevance of the signs and symptoms data we had observed," said Dr. Yazici. "SM04690 has the potential for true disease modification, and relief of signs and symptoms for OA patients."The average age of the study subjects was 62.6 (5.7) years, 67 percent were female, and their average body-mass index was 30.4 (4.7). Escalation cohorts of 20 patients each, including 16 active and four placebo) were given a dose of SM04690 at 0.03 mg, 0.07 mg and 0.23 mg in a 2 mL injection. Subjects were given one injection into their affected knee on the first day, and participated in a follow-up period of 24 weeks.The researchers collected safety, pharmacokinetics, biomarker and preliminary effectiveness data, including Western Ontario McMasters Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC Likert v3.1) measures. They evaluated the percentage of OMERACT-OARSI strict responders in the modified Intention-to-Treat (mITT) population. These responders were patients reporting either WOMAC pain or function subscores improvement of 50 percent, coupled with a reduction in the given subscore of at least 20 points, scaled to [0-100].Compared to placebo, the researchers found statistically more OMERACT-OARSI strict responders in the 0.07 mg cohort at week 12, or 76 percent versus 36 percent, P=0.04. Numerically, there were more strict responders in the 0.03 mg cohort at week 24, or 73 percent versus 36 percent, P=0.07. More patients in the 0.07 mg cohort met both the pain and function criteria versus placebo at 12 and 24 weeks. Responses in the 0.23 mg cohort were 44 percent at week 12 and 25 percent at week 24.These results are evidence that SM04690 has a potentially therapeutic effect on knee OA pain and function compared with placebo, Dr. Yazici said."More patients treated with a single, intra-articular injection of SM04690 than placebo achieved a significant OMERACT-OARSI strict response, a composite score of clinical efficacy requiring both absolute and relative improvement," he said. "Through further analysis, we saw that the clinical response was driven by improvements in both pain and function measurements from baseline as 12 and at 24 weeks, and not solely by one or the other, suggesting clinically relevant, multidimensional improvement."The researchers also explored the potential efficacy of Wnt inhibitors on joint space narrowing and cartilage loss, two signs of worsening arthritis. "A therapy with the potential to not only decrease pain and improve function for patients with knee OA, but also to halt or reverse the processes that are driving disease progression, would be a welcome addition to the OA treatment armamentarium," said Dr. Yazici.The researchers examined their data to evaluate the change from baseline in joint space width (JSW) on X-rays, and then conducted an analysis of JSW change using repeated measures analysis of covariance, or ANCOVA, adjusting for baseline JSW in the modified intention-to-treat (mITT) population.In the mITT population at 24 weeks, subjects in the 0.07 mg cohort showed statistically significant increase in mean medial JSW of 0.49 mm (SD 0.75 mm, P=0.02) from baseline compared to placebo. No change in mean medial JSW was observed in the 0.03 mg cohort (mean 0.00 mm, SD 0.69 mm), a decrease in mean medial JSW of 0.15 mm (SD 1.07 mm) observed in the 0.23 mg cohort and a mean decrease of 0.33 mm (SD 0.87 mm) observed in the placebo cohort.These results, based on exploratory X-ray outcomes from the study, suggest that treatment with SM04690 may maintain or increase joint space width compared to placebo, said Dr. Yazici."SM04690 has a novel mechanism of action, and the findings so far suggest that it's safe and has the potential for true disease modification, as well as relief of signs and symptoms of OA after a single injection," he said. "Radiographs (X-rays) taken at baseline and at 24 weeks post-injection suggested that mean joint space width was maintained in one dose, and even increased in another dose."The next steps are to further assess Wnt inhibitors' safety and efficacy, said Dr. Yazici. The researchers are now conducting a Phase II trial on patients with moderate to severe knee OA."Most importantly, we hope that SM04690 will continue to show positive safety and efficacy so that the millions of patients with knee OA will have a new treatment option," he said.Source: Eurekalert
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Karin Tak to have a new kindergarten
A new kindergarten, now under construction, is the fourth major community-development project to be implemented by the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund in Karin Tak, a village in Artsakhs Shushi Region. In recent years, the fund has built Karin Taks multifunctional community center and new potable-water network, and completely renovated the local school gym. The construction of the kindergarten is co-sponsored by the Devejian and Ekserciyan families as well as Krikor Simsiroglu of Argentina, the Greek-Armenian and the Cypriot-Armenian communities, and the government of Artsakh. Proceeds from the upcoming Phoneathon of the Hayastan All-Armenian Funds affiliate in Greece will likewise benefit the kindergarten-construction project. The future kindergarten is designed to accommodate up to 50 children. The facility will feature a complement of state-of-the-art amenities, including a boiler room, a central-heating system, and an outdoor playground with various play equipment, all of which will make for an enriching and comfortable learning environment. The structure is already up and the roof is finished. In the next phases of the project, crews will work on the exterior and interior decoration, the installation of the boiler room, and the landscaping of the grounds. When completed in the summer of 2017, the campus will open its doors to the communitys 40 kindergarteners. Karin Tak has a population of over 650, with a large percentage of young people. According to Mayor Mkhitar Arushanyan, the necessity of a kindergarten has long been felt in the community, given its steady demographic growth. Our villagers feel a very strong bond with their native land, Arushanyan says. Even during the war years in the 1990s, when the village was under constant bombardment, our residents refused to abandon their birthplace. Today, thanks to a string of marvelous development projects, Karin Taks quality of life is improved significantly, and our residents have great faith in their future. Located five kilometers from the city of Shushi, Karin Tak was founded in the 18th century. It is among villages that were utterly devastated during Artsakhs war of liberation. Every year on January 26, the residents of Karin Tak commemorate their communitys heroic battle and victory in 1992. Hayastan All-Armenian Fund
On November 13, 2016, Hizbullah marked its annual Martyr Day by holding its first military parade in a Syrian town. The parade was held in Al-Qusayr, which Hizbullah took over in 2013 following a long and bloody battle with rebel forces, and which since then has become the main symbol of the organization's involvement in the Syria war alongside the Assad regime.[1]
Reports on the parade and photos from it were posted on Hizbullah-affiliated websites and social media. According to the reports, several hundred fighters in uniform marched in the parade, and tanks, armored vehicles, machine guns and other weapons were displayed. The Lebanese website nn-lb.com reported that the parade involved fighters from newly-formed Hizbullah brigades that are part of the Armored Division, as well as infantrymen from the organization's intervention force who are fighting in Syria and form the spearhead of Hizbullah's army.
Hashem Safi Al-Din, chairman of Hizbullah's executive committee, attended the parade and spoke at it on behalf of the organization's secretary-general Hassan Nasrallah, who is also considered to be the organization's military commander-in-chief. Safi Al-Din addressed various military and political matters related to Syria.[2]
It should be noted that Al-Qusayr is considered to be strategic for Hizbullah due to its location close to the northern Beqaa Valley, which is one of Hizbullah's strongholds in Lebanon. Reports indicate that, since it was taken from the rebels in 2013, Hizbullah has emptied the town of its residents and has turned it into a headquarters and a gathering place from which its fighters set out across Syria. Hizbullah also sees the Al-Qusayr area as an important buffer zone preventing Salafi-jihadi fighters from crossing into Lebanon.
Mazen Ibrahim, Beirut bureau chief for Al-Jazeera, speculated that the parade was intended to convey a number of messages to various elements involved in the Syria crisis, both in Lebanon and elsewhere in the region and the world. Hizbullah, he wrote, meant to convey that it is no longer waging a gang war but was a large army fighting across international borders, a partner of the Syrian regime not only in fighting but in making decisions, and a major player that must be taken into account in any solution to the Syrian crisis.[3]
It should also be noted that the Syrian opposition website Orient News reported, citing "exclusive sources," that the parade included M113 tanks belonging to the Lebanese army, and that these tanks may have ended up in Hizbullah's possession as part of a corrupt deal between Lebanese army commanders and Hizbullah. The sources added that, if these facts are true, they will cause Lebanon to lose its foreign military aid.[4]
The following is a sampling of photos from the parade.
Photos Posted November 13, 2016 On The Hizbullah-Affiliated Website Arabipress.org
Photos Posted November 13, 2016 On The News Site Nn-lb.com
Photos Published November 14, 2016 By Lebanese Newspaper Al-Diyar
Endnotes:
[1] Hizbullah websites that reported on the parade stressed the significance of holding it in Al-Qusayr, due to the town's status as a military and security symbol for the organization, and also due to the fact that the Al-Qusayr area was the gateway through which Hizbullah's forces first entered Syria at the beginning of their involvement in the war. See arabipress.org, November 13, 2016.
Following the election of Michel 'Aoun as Lebanon's new president and the appointment of Sa'd Al-Hariri to form a new government, Saudi journalist Khalaf Al-Harbi wrote in his daily column in the Saudi government daily 'Okaz that Saudi Arabia must not support the Al-Hariri government or assist it politically or economically. This, because such support would enable Hizbullah to continue its military involvement in Syria as part of Assad's war of extermination against his own people, and would leave Lebanon hostage to Hizbullah and its patron, Iran. He added that Saudi Arabia should demand that Hizbullah withdraw from Syria as a condition for maintaining any kind of ties with the Lebanese state. He concluded by warning that Hizbullah's fighters, who do not hesitate to kill Syrian children, would not hesitate to kill Saudi children, and asked his readers: "Will you extend political and financial aid to those who kill your children?"
The following is a translation of the article:[1]
Khalaf Al-Harbi (image: 'Okaz, Saudi Arabia)
"Lebanon is flesh of our flesh. Our love for it and for its people is beyond doubt. Our dearest wish is that the latest arrangements [reached there], thanks to which a president has been elected after a relatively long period of [presidential] vacuum, will lead to Lebanon resuming [its status] as a fortress of liberty, culture and beauty. However, we must always take into consideration that Lebanon is unable to free itself of the Iranian equation that Hizbullah has imposed upon it by the force of arms. Hence, however much we love our Lebanese brothers, we must always remember that an entire army of [Hizbullah] fighters crossed the borders of this small country in order to kill our brothers in Syria. This means that, in the current situation, any military or financial support for Lebanon will first of all mean perpetuating Iran's control over the decision-making in Beirut, and consenting to the killing of more innocent Syrians throughout Syria.
"Many will say that [Saudi Arabia's] desertion of Lebanon in this dangerous situation might [only] push it towards the Iranian axis. No matter, let them run [to Iran] if they wish to. This is preferable to our being part of a ridiculous game in which Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states support a Sa'd Al-Hariri government, thereby freeing Hizbullah to burn Syria without worrying about the internal situation in Lebanon. We must understand that any political or economic support for the Lebanese government is like building a sand castle, because Hizbullah can, at any moment, expel Sa'd Al-Hariri and General [Michel 'Aoun] from Beirut, as it has done in the past. Then, when it's too late, we will realize that we have failed to learn from past mistakes and have fallen into the same trap for the thousandth time.
"We are certainly not obliged to fix a skewed political situation that is not of our making, especially when we are in a difficult economic situation that does not allow us to lavish funds on a government that [Hizbullah secretary-general] Hassan Nasrallah can depose with a television speech lasting no more than five minutes.
"Hizbullah's withdrawal from Syria must be the first condition we pose for holding political and economic ties with Lebanon. This, so that we do not inadvertently become party to the war of extermination with which our brothers, the Syrian people, are contending, and so our good intentions, or naivete, do not lead us to perpetuate the current situation, in which the will of the Lebanese state has fallen hostage to a militia subordinate to Iran.
"[Go ahead and] love Lebanon, but remember that this is the country from which the Hizbullah fighters set forth to Syria in full sight of the government and with the indirect backing of [the Lebanese] army. Know that these fighters, whose salaries are paid by Iran, will not really distinguish between murdering a Syrian child and murdering your own children, should they have a chance to do so. [In fact], they have already done so in the past, by means of terror attacks and espionage operations in Kuwait, Bahrain, the UAE and eastern [Saudi Arabia], not to mention [their] support of the Houthis in Yemen. Will you extend political and financial aid to those who kill your children?"
Endnotes:
Akram Al-Kaabi, commander of the Shiite Iraqi Al-Nujaba Movement (a.k.a. Iraqi Hizbullah), recently said that the group's military activity would continue after the liberation of Mosul from ISIS. "Will we be drying up the springs of ISIS and Al-Qaeda merely by taking military control?" he asked rhetorically, during a November 5 interview on Al-Sumaria TV. "There will still be work against the sleeper cells in all Iraqi cities."
Following are excerpts
Interviewer: We know that the Popular Mobilization Units [PMU] are subordinate to the government. That's fine, but there are also factions within the PMU that admit to being financed directly by Iran.
Akram Al-Kaabi: Right.
Interviewer: This is a violation of the law, of accepted norms, of the rules of diplomacy, and so on.
Akram Al-Kaabi: First of all, the factions supervise brigades within the PMU. They convey their knowledge and expertise to these brigades.
[...]
Interviewer: You and other factions are financed by Iran. You have ideological, administrative, and financial relations with Iran, right?
Akram Al-Kaabi: We do not deny this. It's true.
Interviewer: So why can't the National Mobilization Forces take money from Turkey? What's the difference? Is it because the Iranians are Shiites and the Turks aren't?
Akram Al-Kaabi: First of all, are we from Iran or what? By the way, there are Christian brothers who are financed by the Vatican. Are they not Iraqi citizens anymore? There are Christian Iraqis whose source of authority is not in Iraq, but in the Vatican, and they go there all the time. Some of them are members of the PMU. This ideological aspect does not mean that you have a foreign connection at the expense of your loyalty to your country.
Interviewer:So what's the difference?
Akram Al-Kaabi: First of all, we are Shiites, and in Shia Islam, there are schools and sources of authority, and it's normal to follow a non-Iraqi source of authority. If you examine history, you'll see that out of the four Islamic doctrines, three were Iranian and only one was Arab. Do only Arabs qualify as Muslims? That is unreasonable. Islam is a universal religion, a religion for all the people.
[...]
In religious matters, we are instructed by the Iraqi source of authority [Ayatollah Sistani], in accordance with the guidance of the Ruler-Jurisprudent [Khamenei]. Our political and military activity is instructed by the Iraqi government - again, in accordance with the guidance of the Ruler-Jurisprudent.
Interviewer: We ask Saudi Arabia not to intervene in our internal affairs, but we agree to Iranian intervention. You said that they provide you with weapons and money. What else is left?
Akram Al-Kaabi: There are different kinds of intervention. If any neighboring country wants to intervene, in order to target Iraq and destroy its security - this kind of intervention is unacceptable. But if someone supports me because we have a shared goal - a goal that I consider to be sacred - this is a good thing.
Interviewer: [Former Governor of Mosul] Atheel Al-Nujeifi believes that Turkey supports him for the sake of a lofty goal: the liberation of his land.
Akram Al-Kaabi: He was supposed to protect Mosul from the start. Mosul wasn't meant to fall like that. He and the group of politicians in Mosul were not supposed to incite the people against the security forces and the Iraqi government, to the point that Mosul became easy prey for ISIS. ISIS, then called Al-Qaeda, had a presence in all the institutions of the local government. Officials heading security agencies and police officers were ISIS members.
[...]
Interviewer: Will you give up your armed activity when the Iraqi lands are liberated from ISIS?
Akram Al-Kaabi: Our armed activity depends on whether there is or isn't a danger. We are not talking about whether ISIS is finished or concentrates on Iraq's border, but on whether the danger is over or not.
[...]
Interviewer:
Will we be drying up the springs of ISIS and Al-Qaeda merely by taking military control? There will still be work against the sleeper cells in all Iraqi cities.
[...]
Skyharbor, an Indian/American progressive rock/metal band, consists of the current lineup of Eric Emery as the vocalist, Keshav Dhar and Devesh Dayal on guitars, Krishna Jhaveri on bass and Aditya Ashok as the drummer. The unconventional band, which has members from all around the world, use minimal harsh vocals and try to work on a more melodic and catchy sound.
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The band released their debut album Blinding White Noise: Illusion and Chaos in 2012. Daniel Tompkins performed on the vocals on Disc one and Sunneith Revankar of Bhayanak Maut performed vocals on Disc two. The double-disc album had several guest appearances - Marty Friedman performed guitar solos on 'Catharsis' and 'Celestial', Vishal J. Singh of Amogh Symphony did a classical guitar solo on 'Celestial', New Zealand based musician and renowned producer Zorran Mendonsa played additional guitars on 'Trayus'.
Guiding Light, the second studio album by Skyharbor released in 2014. The band started off on an extensive 29-date Europe and UK tour, co-headlining with Australian post-rock band sleepmakeswaves and Polish group Tides From Nebula in 2015.
The band has played at some of the most prestigious festivals around the world including Bacardi Nh7 Weekender in India, UK Tech Fest, Euroblast Festival in Germany, Dissonance Festival in Italy, headlined the Evolution Tour in UK, Polaris Tour in USA and Canada, and many more.
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Skyharbor is returning to the Bacardi Nh7 Weekender stage and will be performing live in Pune on 2nd-4th December.
There seems to be some relief in sight for citizens across the country reeling under the currency ban as the Currency Note Press (CNP), Nashik, has started dispatching new notes of Rs 500 denomination to the Reserve Bank of India.
"The CNP has already sent the first consignment of five million pieces of the new Rs 500 note and another five million pieces are to be dispatched by Wednesday," an official said on Saturday.
The CNP, which is one of the nine units of the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Ltd (SPMCIL), is also printing notes of Rs 20, Rs 50 and Rs 100 in large numbers, the official said.
Reuters
The government scrapped the Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes with effect from Tuesday midnight and introduced new notes of Rs 500 and Rs 2,000. Although the Rs 2,000 notes have come into circulation, the new Rs 500 note is yet to be passed on.
Sources said that the RBI has already printed the Rs 2,000 and Rs 500 notes at its two printing units in Mysore in Karnataka and Salboni in West Bengal. The Rs 500 note is being printed at SPMCIL's two presses in Nashik and Dewas in Madhya Pradesh.
According to sources, CNP has been given a target of 400 million pieces of the Rs 500 note by the end of the current financial year. The printing of the notes started two weeks ago.
The SPMCIL, which prints currency notes, security documents and manufactures coins, has nine units across the country, including two each in Nashik and Hyderabad and one each in Mumbai, Kolkata, Noida, Dewas and Hoshangabad.
Reuters
Out Of Cash, Even Big Daddy RBI Disburses Coins
Not just banks, even the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) was scrambling for cash on Saturday. The central bank's Ahmedabad office gave out coins to people seeking to replace invalid notes. When it ran out of coins and smaller notes, officials chose to close their doors to citizens at 3.30pm. "I came to exchange invalid notes worth Rs 4,000. I got the entire sum in Rs 10 coins, in two polybags," said a surprised Hanif Mohammad Shaikh, a tailor from Shahpur.
The RBI's regional office set up three counters for exchange of invalid notes. By 3.30pm, its gates were closed and citizens were told to leave, leading to a heated argument with guards. "My brother came yesterday to exchange notes, but there was too much rush. I stood in line all day but the cash ran out before my turn. What are poor people like us to do," said a daily wager, Anita Chauhan.
Reuters
Many bank branches were constricted by inadequate supply of currency notes. A number of small banks ran out of cash and temporarily stopped exchanging notes. Some banks that TOI contacted complained of lack of fresh supply of notes, even as the queues outside grew longer. "This is because RBI disbursed only Rs 50 crore to each bank's currency chest. This is distributed to their branches and other banks linked to the chest. This left branches with little cash to dispense," said an official of Maha Gujarat Bank Employees Association.
(The story was originally published in The Times Of India)
Ameriabank: At the Vanguard of Armenia's Banking Sector
STATEMENT OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ARTSAKH
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Armenia-Azerbaijan: EU sets up monitoring capacity along the international borders
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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
UCOMS SPECIAL OFFER OF THE UNLIMITED INTERNET IS NOW TERMLESS
There is no place for the death penalty in a State that respects human rights: PACE General Rapporteur
EU and CoE call on two Member States that have not yet acceded to this Protocol Armenia and Azerbaijan to do so without delay
An urgent debate requested on "The military hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan".
UCOM AND PES-PES CONTINUE COOPERATION WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF EDUCATIONAL PROJECT
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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
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
Topfinding.com: Making your business profitable is our objective
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Armenian Assembly renews call to withdraw from Turkish and Azeri Caucuses
WASHINGTON, D.C. - As Congress returns next week to complete its legislative business for 2016, the Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly) renews its call for Members to withdraw from the Turkish and Azeri caucuses in light of the increasingly authoritarian regimes there and pattern of behavior, including Azerbaijan's attacks against Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh earlier this year. The Azeri initiated military offensive which was supported by the Turkish military took the lives of innocent civilians, including the gruesome mutilation of an elderly Armenian couple as well as ISIS-like beheadings. "Whatever your prior reasons for standing in solidarity with the Turkish and Azeri regimes, we cannot imagine that any American would continue to do so in the face of recent events. To do so would condone such behavior," stated Assembly Co-Chairs Anthony Barsamian and Van Krikorian. "As the country reflects on the 2016 election and takes stock, now too is the time to revisit our policies vis-a-vis Turkey and Azerbaijan," they continued. "We, therefore, strongly urge Members of the Turkish and Azeri caucuses to withdraw their support and speak out against such heinous acts." During the campaign, president-elect Trump stated that the Turkish government "looks like they're on the side of ISIS more or less based on the oil." Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan continues to push the boundaries while knowingly helping himself instead of nations fighting ISIS and the thousands of innocent civilians dying as a result. The Turkish Caucus has now lost 19 Members in the U.S. House of Representatives, including former Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Ed Whitfield (R-KY), who resigned earlier this year amid an ethics probe, as well as Rep. Donna Edwards (D-MD) who was defeated in the Maryland democratic primary by Armenian Caucus Member Chris Van Hollen (D-MD). Van Hollen went on to win his election to the U.S. Senate. Established in 1972, the Armenian Assembly of America is the largest Washington-based nationwide organization promoting public understanding and awareness of Armenian issues. The Assembly is a non-partisan, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt membership organization.
1. At the invitation of H.E. Mr. Gebran Bassil, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants of the Republic of Lebanon and following the Conference on Stability and Security of Rhodes (8-9 September 2016), the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus H.E. Mr. Ioannis Kasoulides and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic H.E. Mr. Nikos Kotzias met in Beirut on November 9th, 2016.
2. The European Ministers congratulated the people of Lebanon and Minister Bassil for the election of General Michel Aoun as President of the Republic of Lebanon.
3. The Ministers discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in multilateral fora and exchanged views on regional and international issues, especially on developments in the Eastern Mediterranean, the Middle East and the wider region. They agreed that the region is full of opportunities to be seized in order to serve the interests of its peoples. They stressed that regional dialogue can serve the common goals of strengthening the relationship between Europe and the Middle East, and further promote solidarity and mutual understanding, emphasizing their stabilizing role in the region.
4. The Ministers agreed on the importance of preserving the plurality in the region as the co-existence of diverse social, religious and ethnic components living peacefully side by side and as the sole guarantor of sustainable democracy and long term prosperity that will be mutually beneficial to the Mediterranean and the European countries. In this regard, they praised to role model of Lebanon as a beacon of tolerance and humanism.
5. They also stressed the importance and the advantages of the Euro-Mediterranean cooperation for the countries of the region. They agreed that the region is full of opportunities to be seized in order to serve the interests of its peoples. In this respect, they examined ways to take full advantage, where applicable, of the institutional EU-Lebanon relations, including the tools and means provided by the revised European Neighborhood policy. They stressed the importance of the EU-Lebanon Partnership Priorities for the period 2016-2020 within the framework of the ENP Review, and of the respective Compact Agreement, which will usher in a new page in EU-Lebanon relations. Moreover, they underlined the important role of the Union for the Mediterranean towards enhancing such cooperation.
6. The Ministers of Foreign Affairs discussed the growing global phenomenon of large movements of refugees and migrants at an unprecedented scale. They called for global approaches and global solutions based on shared responsibility and international cooperation.
7. The Parties praised Lebanons generosity but expressed continuing concern about the negative impact of the Syrian crisis on Lebanons stability, and the alarming consequences of the mass influx of Syrians displaced into Lebanon.
8. The Ministers agreed on the need for the E.U. to explore every possible way of solidarity to support Lebanon, both politically and economically in order to increase its resilience. They agreed that the only sustainable long term solution for the Syrians temporary displaced into Lebanon is their return to their country, including during transition, under a safe and secure environment.
9. Regarding migration in the broader region of Eastern Mediterranean, they stressed the need for a holistic approach in identifying solutions to this complex and multifaceted issue, putting emphasis on the critical importance of:
a. effectively combating the illegal networks of migrant smuggling, where the role and responsibility of the countries of the region are determining
b. the active solidarity and cooperation of Europe in order to address adequately this challenge of primarily humanitarian character and of unprecedented magnitude for the region.
10. They also underlined the crucial role of Greece with regard to the reception and accommodation of the refugees, which was appreciated worldwide all the more for the humane way that the refugees are being treated.
11. The Parties condemned all terrorist activities, expressed concern for the proliferation of terrorism, not only on a regional, but also on a global level and underlined the necessity of regional and international cooperation in confronting this threat. They expressed strong concerns regarding terrorism and the immediate threat it represents to Lebanons security in terms of the spread of terrorist organizations at its borders. They focused on increasing military and security cooperation and highlighted that safeguarding the security of Lebanon should be a core issue in EUs policy and the International Communitys approach concerning security in the region. To this end, they underlined the importance of exchange of information on a regular basis, among countries of the region.
12. They also stressed the need to address the root causes of the regions conflicts, in order to counter sectarianism, extremism and radicalism, which create a fertile ground for terrorist groups. They reiterated the urgent need for ending the turmoil of violence that has engulfed many regions in the Middle East.
13. They stressed also the need for a political solution in Syria, safeguarding the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country and establishing credible inclusive governance providing for the security and the protection of the rights of all its citizens, regardless of ethnicity or religious denomination.
14. The Parties stressed as well the continuing need for the international communitys support to the national reconciliation process in Iraq and to the countrys national unity and integrity, and called upon all parties in the region to fully respect its sovereignty.
15. Discussions covered regional prospects of the oil and gas sectors, as well as other energy related activities, in particular renewables (solar, wind, hydraulic etc.), as well as avenues for boosting cooperation and exchanges between their competent institutions and their private sector.
16. The Ministers acknowledged education as a top priority sector and agreed to explore opportunities for further cooperation in this, through the establishment of a network of presidents of universities. This network will focus on research and other forms of cooperation among departments that deal with matters related to history as well as on common innovative projects in universities pertaining to the field of research in green and renewable energy.
17. The Ministers agreed that enhanced cooperation, especially between Universities and Research Centers, should be sought, establishing a network focused on exchanging views and ideas and promoting contacts between youth and academia.
18. They underlined their willingness to join efforts for the protection of antiquities and for the preservation and development of historical and archaeological sites, with the view to safeguarding the historical memory of their peoples and the common cultural heritage of humanity, as well as their readiness to cooperate, inter alia, for the protection of underwater cultural heritage.
19. Finally, the Parties reiterated the importance of pursuing the practical follow up steps agreed upon during the Conference on Stability and Security of Rhodes, together with the other participants, keeping an open door policy for further participation.
Ameriabank: At the Vanguard of Armenia's Banking Sector
STATEMENT OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ARTSAKH
SUBSCRIBERS OF UCOMS ALL TIME BEST OFFER TO ENJOY ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
Armenia-Azerbaijan: EU sets up monitoring capacity along the international borders
PACE co-rapporteurs on Armenia concerned by reports of alleged war crimes or inhuman treatment perpetrated by Azerbaijans armed forces
There is still 35% gender pay gap: Sona Ghazaryan
Global Finance Names Ameriabank the Safest Bank in Armenia
Mikayel and Karen Vardanyans provided 136 million AMD support for the overhaul of the Myasnikyan statue, which was in unsafe state of disrepair
Believe me, as a representative of a country which uses the Schengen system very often, it is quite important. Vardanyan
I really look forward to having answers from the Azerbaijani side for these alleged gross human rights violations: Secretary General
I call on Armenian and Azerbaijani parliamentarians to use this Assembly as an agora of opportunities President Tiny Kox
UCOMS SPECIAL OFFER OF THE UNLIMITED INTERNET IS NOW TERMLESS
There is no place for the death penalty in a State that respects human rights: PACE General Rapporteur
EU and CoE call on two Member States that have not yet acceded to this Protocol Armenia and Azerbaijan to do so without delay
An urgent debate requested on "The military hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan".
UCOM AND PES-PES CONTINUE COOPERATION WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF EDUCATIONAL PROJECT
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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
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
Oxford Industries, Inc., an apparel company, designs, sources, markets, and distributes products of lifestyle and other brands worldwide. The company offers men's and women's sportswear and related products under the Tommy Bahama brand; women's and girl's dresses and sportswear, scarves, bags, jewelry, and belts, as well as footwear and children's apparel and swimwear under the Lilly Pulitzer brand; and men's shirts, pants, shorts, outerwear, ties, swimwear, footwear, and accessories, as well as women and youth products under the Southern Tide brand. It also designs, sources, markets, and distributes premium childrenswear, including bonnets, hats, apparel, swimwear, and accessories through thebeaufortbonnetcompany.com and wholesale specialty retailers; men's apparel, which include pants, shorts, and tops through duckhead.com and wholesale specialty retailers. In addition, the company licenses Tommy Bahama brand for various products, such as indoor and outdoor furniture, beach chairs, bedding and bath linens, fabrics, leather goods and gifts, headwear, hosiery, sleepwear, shampoo, toiletries, fragrances, cigar accessories, distilled spirits, and other products; Lilly Pulitzer for stationery and gift products, home furnishing products, and eyewear; and Southern Tide trademark for bed and bath product. Oxford Industries, Inc. offers products through its retail stores, department stores, specialty stores, multi-branded e-commerce retailers, off-price retailers, and other retailers, as well as e-commerce sites. As of January 29, 2022, it operated 186 brand-specific full-price retail stores; 21 Tommy Bahama food and beverage locations; and 35 Tommy Bahama outlet stores. Oxford Industries, Inc. was founded in 1942 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.
Republican lawmaker can foresee: Vigen Sargsyan will surprise
Republican Hakob Hakobyan can foresee that the Minister of Defense Vigen Sargsyan from the NA rostrum will surprise those, who are against 1000 drams, I think that now he will say that those, who dont want, will not give. Mr Hakobyan agrees that charging 1000 drams from salaries isnt tax obligation. But who has seen that citizens donation be monthly, As we sustain losses frequently, which, of course, is very bad, there cannot be donation only once. Prosperous Armenia Party (BHK) faction member Stepan Margaryan proposes to charge those 1000 drams from the salary in the form of tax. He considers this idea of the Defense Minister to be late, If money from the budget isnt enough, taxes are increased, lets do the same- increase the taxes. Stepan Margaryan doesnt like the idea of establishing a fund specially for raising these sums; the state already has institutions through which it charges money from the citizens, Here mistrust in the state mechanism arises. The Armenian National Congress (HAK) faction Head Levon Zurabyan says that annually USD 2.7 billion is plundered in Armenia, first and foremost lets return those sums into the state budget, According to Globo Financial organizations report, since 2004 through money laundering on average capital worth USD 1 billion has been illegally withdrawn from Armenia. In case of returning so much money it is possible not only to solve the issue of insurance of servicemen, but also increase pensions, They allow so that budget is wasted, they allow inefficient spending. For example, why do we keep 20 000-member police? The police, according to Levon Zurabyan, are necessary for keeping the regime. He doesnt know another case in the word that without tax obligation, only at the decision of the Defense Minister, money is charged from a citizen at the state level: There is Government. Government approved it. The whole Government headed by Karen Karapetyan is responsible for it. The working class is flayed. Levon Zurabyan cannot find other words to describe all these.
The U.S. Defense Department on Monday identified the two soldiers killed last week by a suicide bomber at the Bagram airbase in Afghanistan as from the 1st Cavalry Division based at Fort Hood, Texas.
Army Sgt. John W. Perry, 30, of Stockton, California, and Pfc. Tyler R. Iubelt, 20, of Tamaroa, Illinois, were killed Nov. 12 at the airfield north of the capital, Kabul. The soldiers were assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Special Troops Battalion, 1st Sustainment Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, the statement said.
Two American contractors also were killed in the blast and 16 other U.S. service members and a Polish service member were injured.
The attacker was a former Taliban militant who had joined the peace process in 2008 and had since taken a job at the base, Bagram District Governor Haji Abdul Shokor Qudosi told ABC News on Sunday.
About 14,000 Americans, including service members and contractors, are based at Bagram. The base was closed to Afghan workers immediately following the attack and the U.S. Embassy in Kabul also closed for business.
The attack occurred while U.S. service members at the base were preparing for a five-kilometer race as part of Veterans Day events.
A later statement from Fort Hood said that Perry joined the Army on Jan. 31, 2008, as a Test, Measurement and Diagnostic Equipment (TMDE) maintenance support specialist. He had been assigned to 1st Cavalry Division Sustainment Brigade since Aug. 21, 2014.
Perry was on his second tour in Afghanistan. He deployed to Afghanistan when the U.S. involvement there was called Operation Enduring Freedom from August 2010 to July 2011. He deployed in support of Operation Freedom's Sentinel in September 2016.
Perry's awards and decorations included the Purple Heart Medal, Bronze Star, three Army Commendation Medals, one Army Achievement Medal, two Army Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, and Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two campaign stars.
He also had received the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, three Overseas Service Ribbons, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, Combat Action Badge and Driver's and Mechanic Badge.
Iubelt had been in the Army less than a year, the statement said. He entered the Army on Nov. 23, 2015, as a motor transport operator and had been assigned to 1st Cavalry Division Sustainment Brigade since May 6, 2016. He deployed to Afghanistan in September.
Iubelt's awards and decorations include the Purple Heart Medal, Bronze Star, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with campaign star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon and Combat Action Badge.
Perry and Iubelt were among about 500 1st Cavalry Division soldiers who deployed to Afghanistan in the late summer of this year in a regular rotation of troops to help train the Afghan military.
The deploying soldiers were part of the Fort Hood division's headquarters and its sustainment brigade headquarters, Lt. Col. Sunset Belinsky, the 1st Cavalry Division's division's spokeswoman, said at the time. They deployed to Bagram Airfield to replace the 10th Mountain Division headquarters, which had served as the planning leader for U.S. Forces-Afghanistan since November of 2015.
The deployment in support of Operation Freedom's Sentinel was expected to last about 12 months, Belinsky said. Operation Freedom's Sentinel is the United States' continuing mission to train and advise the Afghan National Security Forces in their fight against the Taliban and other insurgent networks.
Maj. Gen. John C. Thomson III, who took command of the 1st Cavalry Division last January, was leading the deployment, taking over duties as the U.S. deputy commanding general for support in Afghanistan.
The deaths of Perry and Iubelt were the second and third in combat for the 1st Cavalry Division in recent weeks. On Oct. 20, Sgt. Douglas J. Riney, 26, of Fairview, Illinois, died in Kabul of wounds received from what was suspected to be an insider attack by an individual wearing an Afghan army uniform. American contractor Michael G. Sauro, 40, of McAlester, Oklahoma, also was killed in the incident.
Riney and Sauro had been on a mission for the Afghan Defense Ministry when they drove up to the entry point at an Ammunition Supply Point on the outskirts of Kabul, Army Brig. Gen. Charles Cleveland, spokesman for U.S. Forces-Afghanistan and the NATO Resolute Support mission, said in a briefing to the Pentagon late last month.
"They had not started the inspection" when a man wearing an Afghan army uniform opened fire, Cleveland said. The gunman was shot dead by Afghan security.
Cleveland said the U.S. could not confirm that the incident was an insider, or "green-on-blue," attack since the Afghans had yet to identify the gunman.
Riney entered active-duty service in July 2012 as a petroleum supply specialist, the military said. He had been assigned to the Support Squadron, 3rd Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, at Fort Hood, Texas, since December 2012.
Riney was on his second tour to Afghanistan. His awards and decorations included the Purple Heart, Bronze Star and Army Commendation Medal.
Sauro was assigned to the Defense Ammunition Center, McAlester Army Ammunition Plant, in Oklahoma, the Defense Department said. He traveled to Afghanistan in September for his third deployment and was scheduled to return to the U.S. in March.
A U.S. soldier and two other U.S. civilians employed by the Defense Ammunition Center were injured in the incident. The soldier was reported in stable condition at the time. Civilian Richard "Rick" Alford was in stable condition and civilian Rodney Henderson suffered minor injuries, the center said, adding that they will both return to the U.S., The Associated Press reported.
The attack came as the U.S. was proceeding with President Barack Obama's plan to draw down the number of U.S. troops in Afghanistan from the current number of about 9,500 to 8,400 by the end of this year.
The drawdown was taking place as the U.S. considers its troop and monetary support under the administration of President-elect Donald Trump for Afghanistan, where the U.S. has been at war for 15 years.
Afghanistan policy was not a main topic of debate between Trump and Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton during the campaign.
-- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com.
Despite Flipping in Surf 4 Times in a Year, Marines Say New ACV Is the Future of Amphibious Warfare
Some Marine veterans familiar with the vehicle and its operations have worried about the reliability of the ACV.
Joseph V. Micallef is a best-selling military history and world affairs author, and keynote speaker. Follow him on Twitter @JosephVMicallef
Addressing a group of 200 Philippine and Chinese businessmen at the Great Hall of the People, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, on October 20, dramatically announced that, "America had lost" and that "China had won" and the "separation" of the Philippines from the United States.
At the meeting, which was also attended by Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli, Duterte announced that he had "realigned myself in your ideological flow," and threatened to seek closer ties with Russia and, "tell him [Vladimir Putin] that there are three of us against the world." He also announced that the two countries would engage in bilateral negotiations in their dispute over ownership of the Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea.
The announcement highlighted a dramatic trip by Duterte to China, during which Beijing pulled out all the stops to welcome the Philippine president with the sort of pomp and ceremony typically reserved for a major power. Per Ramon Lopez, the Philippines's Trade Secretary, some $15 billion in trade and investment deals were signed as a result of the visit.
The announcement marked a dramatic reversal in Manila's historic foreign policy alignment and represented a stunning setback in Washington's efforts to build a regional coalition backstopped by American military power to contain Chinese expansionism in the South and East China Seas.
Duterte has been sharply critical of the Obama administration and the U.S. following criticisms of the extrajudicial killings of drug dealers by his government. The Philippine president has unleashed torrents of expletive laden criticisms of the American president prompting the White House to abruptly cancel a planned meeting between Obama and Duterte during the recent G20 conference.
The next day, Trade Minister Ramon Lopez tried to walk back some of Duterte's comments, emphasizing that the Philippines would maintain their trade and economic ties with the United States and the West.
On October 26, Duterte, while on a trip to Japan, announced that he wanted all U.S. troops out of the Philippines within two years and that he was prepared to "revise or abrogate agreements" to do so. The U.S. currently has five military bases in the Philippines under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (ECDA) between the two countries. In addition, the U.S. has a contingent of Special Forces conducting counterterrorism operations against the Islamic State affiliated Abu Sayyaf on the island of Mindanao.
Once again, a Philippine government official, this time Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay, was quick to walk back Duterte's incendiary comments, stating that Duterte did not mean to imply that U.S. troops would be expelled and that American and Philippine "national interests still continue to converge." Duterte later pushed back his deadline for a U.S. military withdrawal to 2022, and announced that joint American-Philippine military exercises would end after 2017. He also announced an end to joint naval patrols in the South China Sea. Significantly, however, Duterte has made no mention of ending the 65-year-long mutual defense treaty with the U.S.
Since being elected president in June 2016, Duterte has quickly gained a reputation for flamboyant and controversial policies as well as an acerbic and militant style. His militant, anti-American stance, however, is hardly a surprise. Duterte grew up a strident leftwing activist and Philippine nationalist. He has long-standing ties to the Philippine Communist Party and was involved with a variety of groups that agitated for the closure of the Subic and Clark bases in the early 1990s. Duterte's reflexive anti-Americanism brought him to the attention of U.S. consular officials in 2002 and led him to be placed on a list of Philippine citizens ineligible for U.S. visas.
Both China and the U.S. are key trade partners for the Philippines. China was the Philippines' second largest trading partner in 2015, with bilateral trade worth $17.7 billion. The total value of U.S. trade with the Philippines was around $16.5 billion, placing it behind both China and Japan; the latter was the Philippine's largest trade partner with bilateral trade worth $18.7 billion. The U.S. is, however, the Philippines' largest foreign investor.
It's unclear at this point whether Duterte's new political realignment with China represents a bargaining stance with the U.S. or the beginning of a new, tectonic realignment in the international relations of Southeast Asia. What is clear, however, is that, so far, his new policies are deeply unpopular among the Philippine political and economic elite, although his personal popularity remains high.
Beijing has made political and military control of the South and East China Seas a key goal of its regional foreign policy. Chinese militarization of the islands it has been building and expanding in the region has raised alarms among its neighbors, causing historic enemies like Vietnam and the United States and Japan and the Philippines to forge closer military ties and expand military cooperation. In June, the International Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled that China's seizure of the Philippines' Scarborough Shoal had violated Manila's sovereignty.
Duterte's pivot to China may be an attempt to mitigate the consequences of that ruling, one that Beijing found deeply embarrassing and that it has declared it will ignore, on the Philippines' China trade. Following Duterte's visit, Beijing announced that Philippine fisherman could return to the Scarborough Shoals and that the Philippine Coast Guard would resume patrols there. The agreement, described as an "oral understanding," left untouched the more contentious issue of sovereignty.
Beijing's strategy also underscores the effectiveness of China's hard and soft diplomacy, the willingness to act unilaterally in seizing and fortifying disputed islands and shoals in the region, and using its growing military strength to intimidate its neighbors, while at the same time also proffering its soft diplomacy of investment and access to China's huge internal markets.
Duterte's visit to China was quickly followed by a similar visit by Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak. On November 1, Razak announced that the two countries had signed bilateral trade and investment deals worth $34.25 billion dollars. Malaysia also agreed to buy four littoral mission ships from the Chinese. Significantly, Razak also announced that Malaysia would engage in bilateral negotiations with China over disputed areas of the South China Sea.
Razak's relations with the Obama administration have been strained ever since the U.S. Justice Department opened an investigation into the use of American banks to launder as much as a billion dollars that, Washington believes, was looted from a Malaysian State Development fund by his associates and family members.
While the Obama Administration's criticisms of Duterte and Razak are partially responsible for their apparent overtures to China, it also underlines the relative failure of the Obama administration's much vaunted "pivot" to Asia. Although there has been an expansion in bilateral military cooperation with several countries in the region, the centerpiece of that policy, the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the proposed free trade area in the Asia-Pacific region, appears to be stillborn given President-elect Donald Trump's opposition to it.
China's interest in the South China Sea has been driven by a fundamental and far-reaching change in China's economy. Historically, China has been largely self-sufficient. When direct European trade with China began in earnest in the 16th century, European merchants found there was little that they could interest the Chinese in buying. Furs were a highly profitable commodity, but the trade in furs was relatively miniscule when compared with the boatloads of tea, silk and porcelain that China dispatched to Europe.
For much of the 16th through the early 19th centuries, a river of silver flowed from Europe and the Americas to China where it was exchanged for Chinese goods. It wasn't until British merchants in India discovered that opium produced in the Indian highlands could be very profitably sold in vast quantities in China that the lopsided balance of trade with China began to reverse. In the process, they created the first international drug cartel; one that also benefited by being defended by the Royal Navy, then the world's most powerful.
Today, however, the Chinese economy is heavily dependent on its external trade, both for markets for its manufactured goods and for essential raw materials. Far from being self-sufficient, Chinese industry today imports vast quantities of raw materials and foodstuffs. It is the world's largest user of such critical materials, among others, as iron, copper, lead and zinc.
The vast majority of China's commodity imports travel by sea, as do virtually all its exports. Sea power, which historically has not figured prominently in Chinese history, is thus assuming a far more significant role in China's strategic thinking.
As China's economy has grown and has, in turn, become ever more dependent on the export of its production and the import of the critical raw materials and foodstuffs needed to run it, China's perceived need to secure and control its maritime approaches has become stronger.
Currently China's defensive doctrine identifies two key geostrategic boundaries: the "first-island-chain" and the "second-island-chain." The first-island-chain encompasses a vast area centered around the South and East China Sea. It begins off the coast of Indochina, curves around Borneo and the western coast of the Philippines, and extends north along the eastern coast of Taiwan, all the way to the southern coast of Japan.
From a naval standpoint, Chinese strategists see this region as "China's backyard." Moreover, it is characterized by a series of "choke points" where hostile naval forces could interdict or blockade Chinese shipping and cripple China's economy. Some $6.5 trillion in goods pass though this region yearly.
Beijing claims that its assertion of a strategic interest in the geographic zone comprised of the "first-island-chain" is no different than America's declaration of the Monroe Doctrine in 1823. Regardless of the rationale, China's aims, to be successful, would require every one of its neighbors along the South and East China Seas to significantly compromise their claims in the region. It would also force a de facto withdrawal by the U.S. Navy from the East Asian littoral. It's unlikely that the U.S.'s bilateral defense treaties with those countries would survive such a pullback.
Even more problematic is Beijing's delineation of the "second-island-chain." This zone encompasses the Philippines and Japan and extends eastward to Palau, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. Significantly in 2015, the PLA Air Force began flights by Chinese H-6K long-range bombers over the Western Pacific, extending to a point about 600 miles west of Guam.
China's ambitions to dominate the sea-air space as far as the "second-island-chain" may be either wishful thinking or little more than posturing. On the other hand, China's ambitious naval construction program suggests that the strategy is more than empty rhetoric. For the U.S. to be effectively excluded from this second zone would represent a collapse of American naval power in the Western Pacific not seen since the aftermath of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.
Chinese strategists have also, of late, been raising the prospect of a "third-island chain" one that extends as far west as the Hawaiian Islands, and would include the Aleutians as well as Micronesia, and extend all the way to New Zealand.
Ironically, the strategic origin of the "island-chain" concept was American. In 1951, John Foster Dulles suggested the construction of three successive island chains as a containment strategy to surround the Soviet Union and the People's Republic of China. Washington never adopted the strategy, but Beijing has incorporated it into its own strategic thinking, both as a critical element of China's own defense and as a strategy for containing American naval power in the Pacific.
This is not an outcome that Washington will accept. Even the "first-island-chain" would represent nothing less than a complete reorientation of the strategic balance of power is East Asia. What is clear is that the tension in the South China Sea is unlikely to dissipate any time soon and that the consequences of China's ambition's in the area will reverberate politically, economically and diplomatically, well into the future.
Duterte's dramatic announcement may be nothing more than empty rhetoric on the part of a controversial and flamboyant Philippine leader. Likewise, Razak's coziness with Beijing is more likely to be a tactical ploy than a strategic realignment. Claims that the "dominoes" in Southeast Asia have started to fall into China's lap are premature and not yet supported by the facts. Then again, with the benefit of hindsight, these developments could turn out to be the first steps in Beijing's ambition to restore China's historic hegemonic role in Southeast Asia.
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A proposed rule change that would have allowed sex-change surgeries for transgender veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs has been scrapped amid questions over how to pay for it.
"VA has been and will continue to explore a regulatory change that would allow VA to perform gender alteration surgery and a change in the medical benefits package, when appropriated funding is available," according to a statement from the department to Military.com. "Therefore, this regulation will be withdrawn from the Fall 2016 Unified Agenda."
The department currently covers hormone therapy, mental health care, preoperative evaluation and long-term care after a sex reassignment surgery for qualified veterans, officials said. The change would have added gender reassignment surgery to that list.
The so-called Unified Agenda, a bi-annual publication of proposed regulation changes, is due Monday. But the sex-change surgery rule that was set to be included was kicked back by the Office of Management and Budget because the VA did not include a plan for how they would fund the change, a senior department official said.
A 2011 executive order issued by President Barack Obama requires agencies to take costs into account when proposing rule changes. The sex-change operation rule's rejection by the OMB doesn't mean they don't support the change, the official said -- just that the office needs to see funding plans for it.
VA officials notified members of Congress of their decision to exclude the change in a letter sent on Monday. The VA first proposed the rule change in June in the Federal Register. Its removal from agenda release could leave the change in jeopardy as Obama officials and Democrat political appointees with the VA prepare for a hand-off to President-elect Donald Trump, a Republican.
Trump has not yet spelled-out his stance on transgender medical treatment within the military or VA. In the past his stance has been seen as contradictory. He has both said he would repeal an Obama administration directive for schools nationwide to allow transgender students to use the bathroom of their choice and protect transgender people under the law.
A ban on openly serving transgender troops was lifted in June when the Defense Department announced that it would pay for sex-change operations for qualifying transgender troops. Tricare does not cover sex-change operations for military family members or retirees.
Leila Ireland, a transgender former soldier who served in the Army as a male and was medically retired last year, said the decision is frustrating but not surprising given the results of the election.
"It's very frustrating to even see or hear that they are doing that because of all the work that many people before me have done," she said. "But it's important to remember that even though they are changing their minds right now, there's going to be a way and we're going to find that way. Everything happens for a reason and we're not going to be set back."
Other military family advocates said they hope the military community will continue to fight for transgender benefits.
"All of our nation's veterans, regardless of their gender identity, deserve access to the medical care they earned serving our nation. This is a deeply disappointing setback in making sure an often medically necessary procedure is part of that care," Ashley Broadway, president of the American Military Partners Association, which advocates for gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender troops and families, said in a statement.
"We implore fair-minded Americans to stand united in holding our new administration officials accountable by insisting this be fixed," she said.
--Amy Bushatz can be reached at amy.bushatz@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @amybushatz.
Depending on your PT test, the order of swimming may best be determined by where it is in the order of events of that test.
Option of street power present for justice: Dr Tahir-ul-Qadri
PAT Chairman Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri has said that Allah Almighty is the Greatest Chief and the struggle for justice will never retire. He said even if the COAS could not get us justice in the Model Town case, he would continue to fight the case of the martyrs till the last breath of his life. He said that we are appearing in the court of law to show that we are doing everything under the law to get justice but the option of street power is present to get Qisas if need be.
Dr Tahir-ul-Qadri said that the Interior Minister has given his verdict by describing the Cyril leak as controversial news, refusing to accept it as a breach of national security. He said that the investigative committee will give its decision with five members giving a clean chit while two members will add dissenting note. He said that the ruling family has accepted the ownership of the properties based in London and now it is their responsibility to give documentary evidence to prove the ownership. He said that the Information Minister has been removed temporarily, adding that he is of the considered opinion that the rulers will get a clean-chit in the Panama and Cyril leaks.
Dr Qadri said that we are with the opposition parties including PPP, PTI and JI that want accountability of the rulers on corruption. In an interview from London yesterday, he said that burden of 14 martyrdoms and 100 injured people is on the Sharif brothers. He said that he cannot pardon the Qisas from legal and Islamic point of view but added in the same breath that he would continue to play his role to seek justice. He said that the first case to be presented in the Court of Allah Almighty on the Day of Judgment will be the one of the unjust killing of innocent people and the hell will be the abode of the killers.
The PAT Chairman said that the Model Town judicial report lists the names and addresses of the perpetrators of the tragedy and it is for this reason that it is not being released. He said that our Qisas movement consists of three phases. In the first phase, protests were held in more than 200 cities whereas the second and third phases have yet to come. He said that the government has taken the form of a mafia whereas the institutions have surrendered their independence to it. Commenting on the Cyril leak, he said that at a time when justice is not being done in the case of breach of national security, how will a common man get justice in his day to day affairs? He said that the government has adopted an insulting attitude by describing the Cyril leak as controversial news, adding that it was a planned strategy to defame the institution of the Army. He said that the news item was purposefully leaked out to the newspaper and the credibility of the military was undermined.
Dr Tahir-ul-Qadri said that the rulers will never make the mistake of forming an independent commission consisting of neutral judges, stating further that they would not repeat the mistake they made in establishing the Justice Najfi Commission to investigate the Model Town massacre. He said that decision in the Panama leaks can be delivered in a span of a week because what is to be established is the money trail for properties purchased abroad.
He said that law comes into action against the weak segments of society whereas the powerful get clean-chit. He said that Rs. 7500 million were recovered from the house of Secretary Finance Balochistan and Rs. 2 billion from former provincial minister of Sindh but nothing seems to have been done in these cases. He asked what result came out when 100 people were martyred in an attack on the Civil Hospital in Quetta and 50 people were killed in an attack on a shrine in Hub. He said that people beholden to the rulers are manning FIA, NAB, and FBR. He said that the whole nation will have to get together. He said that barbarism in the name of government and dictatorship in the name of democracy is established in Pakistan. He said that the powerful and moneyed people are able to win the whole election here, adding that our struggle is for getting rid of the oppressive and corrupt system, which will continue unabated.
Toyota Tacoma
A second-generation Toyota Tacoma.
(Toyota)
DETROIT - Toyota Motor Corp. has agreed to settle a class-action lawsuit in the U.S. that alleges the frames could rust through on some 1.5 million trucks from the 2005-2010 model years, Reuters reports.
The settlement estimates the total cost to replace the trucks' frames at $3.375 billion. Toyota has admitted no liability or wrongdoing in the proposed settlement, which was filed Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles.
The proposed settlement covers Tacoma trucks from the 2005-2010 model years, Tundras from 2007 and 2008 and Sequoia SUVs from 2005-2008. As part of the settlement, Toyota will inspect affected trucks for 12 years from the day they were first sold or leased, and make any necessary repairs.
UPDATE:
Police identify 3-year-old fatally shot by child playing with gun in Ypsilanti Township
YPSILANTI TOWNSHIP, MI - Loved ones huddled together as a woman cried out at the scene of the shooting death of a 3-year-old boy on Sunday, Nov. 13.
Police believe another child was playing with a gun when it went off, fatally striking the toddler in the neck shortly before 1:25 p.m. in the Country Meadows Apartment complex, 212 Stevens Drive in Ypsilanti Township.
Police have not yet identified the child.
The incident remains under investigation, but Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office Lt. Jim Anuszkiewicz said several children and the child's mother were in the home when the gun went off.
Anuszkiewicz said police are investigating who owned the gun and what happened.
A man could be seen holding his head in his hands while sitting on the steps of a Huron Valley Ambulance rig, Sunday afternoon. He was later seen being driven away in a police vehicle, and, more than an hour later, a woman wrapped in a winter coat was hurried to a vehicle by loved ones and driven away.
No one had been charged in the incident as of Sunday evening, and Anuszkiewicz said police simply hoped to speak with the man they drove away.
Relatives at the scenes declined to speak Sunday.
A number of neighbors and area residents looked on as police continued to work at the scene Sunday afternoon and evening.
Jeff McGuire, 44, of Ypsilanti said he came to the complex Sunday in case he knew those at the scene, where he used to live. He said hoped to wish the family comfort, but also said the incident was a reminder of a need for better gun control laws.
Parents need to be careful with their guns, he said.
"A kid's life shouldn't have to end like this," he said. "The whole thing could've probably been prevented. It's just sad all the way around."
Devney Hamilton, 26, who lives in the building where the boy was shot, said the area has a number of families and she's seen few incidents requiring police.
Though she doesn't know the family involved in the incident well - she believes they moved in recently - she said children frequently play outside the apartment complex and she's seen parents help keep an eye on other children.
"There's a grown-up to look out for the kids," she said of when neighborhood children play outside.
Others, such as Torrey Dalton, 25, disagreed about the number of times police have been called to the area.
Dalton, who lives in a neighboring unit, said in his three years at the location, he's seen a number of police responses, including at least one other for a shooting.
"It's terrible," he said of the shooting Sunday.
It was a tough scene for everyone, Anuszkiewicz said.
"It's very unfortunate, not only for the family, but it's unfortunately(sic) for the first responding deputies as well as the paramedics and also the fire department, so we'll work to make sure they're OK."
ANN ARBOR, MI - After
more than 20 years of hoping
they'd someday see Hillary Clinton become president, members of her fan club in Ann Arbor gathered Sunday for a post-election potluck some described as a funeral.
"It's like a death," said Chris Lord, a longtime club member who brought a cake with the message, "Hillary, our champion, thank you."
For some, the dream of a Clinton presidency is now over, as they can't see her running again.
"We're sad, shocked, stunned -- in disbelief," said Jan Murray, another longtime club member who wore her red shirt from Clinton's first run for president, along with buttons reading "I'm with her" and "Love trumps hate."
"It's like a loss of life, a loss of a dream," Murray said of Clinton losing to Donald Trump in Tuesday's election.
Murray, 80, said she was hoping to see the United States elect its first female president in her lifetime, but now she's not so sure that will happen.
"This is so sad," she said. "We can't believe it because she was definitely the most qualified, and I truly believed once she got in office she would do what she could for the average working person."
Janine Easter, who helped start the Ann Arbor chapter of Clinton's national fan club in 1994, said Trump's win was totally unexpected. She originally was planning for Sunday's potluck to be a victory party.
The potluck was attended by more than 30 people, most of them members of the club since Clinton was first lady in the 1990s.
"We need each other because we're sad, but to see each other makes us feel better," Easter said as she hugged fellow Clinton supporters on Sunday.
They took time to write notes of thanks and support that Easter plans to bundle and send to Clinton this week.
Easter gave a speech in which she said the most qualified presidential candidate of all time was trumped by the least qualified. But she said the fact that Clinton actually won the popular vote was reason to celebrate.
"She did not quite break the glass ceiling, but as a trailblazer she makes it possible for other qualified women to follow in her lead and break it once and for all -- maybe Kirsten Gillibrand, maybe Michelle Obama," she said.
So where does the club go from here?
"Giving up is not an option," Easter said, proposing that the club keep meeting for its annual potluck and support Clinton in whatever she does next.
"We know Hillary will continue her work empowering women and encouraging girls here and abroad to reach their potential."
Some club members still are holding out hope that the electors of the Electoral College will give the election to Clinton since she won the popular vote.
"Every effort should be made in the states where electors can change their minds to get them to change their minds," said Ann Larimore, a longtime club member.
"I think it's an anachronistic institution," she said of the Electoral College system, which is how Trump won. "The structure needs to be changed, and that's a long-term goal. We need to do that before the next presidential election."
As an ardent environmentalist and longtime feminist who helped start the women's studies program at the University of Michigan, Larimore is worried about Trump enacting policies that will hurt women and the environment.
"It's extremely worrisome," she said.
"I'm really concerned. We all are," added Lord, who said she hopes, in all of this, Clinton at least gets to enjoy more time with her family now. "She might be able to be a grandma, enjoy her life, not have to give every minute. But I am sure she's going to be jumping into something, and we're going to jump in with her."
Trump talked about his plans as president in a television interview with "60 Minutes" that aired Sunday night. He said there are a few things he wants to work on right away, including health care, immigration and lowering taxes.
Lana Pollack, a longtime Clinton fan club member and former state senator, said she's concerned about what policies might be coming under a Trump administration, including when it comes to addressing climate change.
"We're in a terrible, terrible place," said Pollack, who was president of the Michigan Environmental Council from 1996 to 2008 and was chosen by President Barack Obama in 2010 to chair the U.S. section of the International Joint Commission, which deals with boundary waters between the U.S. and Canada.
"Every week or every month or every year that's lost on responding to climate change is just lost," said Pollack, who expects to lose her position in January.
Pollack said she wants to get rid of the Electoral College, which twice in 16 years has given the presidency to a candidate that did not win the popular vote.
Leah Gunn, a former Washtenaw County commissioner and longtime club member, said she had a conversation recently with former Ann Arbor Mayor Liz Brater, who also was a state representative and senator.
"Liz agrees with you -- we need to work on getting rid of the Electoral College," Gunn told club members on Sunday.
"That's a project we can all work on individually."
Jean Kluge, another longtime club member, said she doesn't think Trump will be able to deliver on many of the things he talked about on the campaign trail, including building a wall on the U.S.-Mexican border and lessening women's reproductive rights. "I really hope he doesn't deliver what he has promised."
Amy Seetoo, another longtime club member, said she has some concerns about what a Trump presidency might mean, but she's glad that his platform at least includes new investments in infrastructure.
"It's time to do something about our infrastructure," she said. "I don't care whose administration -- we need to improve our infrastructure."
you are here:
business Tata Motors Q2 revenue in line, profit misses; directors back co Tata Motors said today its consolidated revenues for the second quarter rose 6.94 percent year-on-year to Rs 67,999.7 crore, EBIT (earnings before interest and tax) stood at Rs 6,282 crore while the company swung to a profit of Rs 848 crore, compared to a Rs 1,740 crore loss last year.
Rattle the jingle bells and deck the halls with holly, because Christmas sure has come early for Donald Trump.
Not only has he bagged the White House, the US economy is really starting to move now.
The Financial Times reports that wage growth accelerated at its fastest pace since 2009 in the US. Private sector hiring is on a record streak.
Im sure Trump wont mind letting the world know, now that hes in power. He can do what every politician does and change the narrative to suit him.
The feel-good factor from this might just come in handy for his first 100 days, once the facts start getting out. He can drop the campaign rhetoric about an ailing America to get US consumers out of a fearful mindset, and spending even more.
Trump is no stranger to shifting positions. There are already reports that his website is dropping previous election policies and promises. The crazier stuff will no doubt get the flick, so that he looks more Presidential.
Theres one particular policy that wont change, however, and thats Trumps intention to dismantle the Dodd Frank Act. This is legislation brought in after 2008 to regulate the US financial sector. In fact, this is one policy hes already confirmed now that hes elected.
Phil Anderson over at Cycles, Trends and Forecasts had this outcome flagged as far back as June. He sent out an email at the time saying the following:
Donald Trump just got a massive boost to his chances of ascending to the US presidency thanks to the US banks. But you wont see this reported on the front pages of any newspaper or magazine. Heres why. Several weeks ago, Jeb Hensarling Chairman of the US House Financial Services Committee put together measures to specifically help US banks by dismantling the Dodd-Frank Act. Thats the Act brought in after 2008 to better regulate the banks and ensure another financial panic would never happen again. Trump has endorsed these measures and vowed to pull apart the former Act. Banks will now undertake a prodigious effort to ensure Trump looks more presidential than he is. US banks will now make every effort to get him elected. Then theyll look for their payback.
And holy moly, the Wall Street Journal now suggests that Trump is considering appointing Hensarling as Treasury Secretary.
Over at Cycles, Trends and Forecasts we often write about the property cycle that underpins the US and Australian economies. If you had to boil it down to two factors, its the property market and banks, of course.
Now we have a real estate President in charge who wants to drop property taxes and lift regulations off the financial sector. This cycle is really rumbling now. Theres a boom brewing.
Things get even more interesting at this point. China and the US have been discussing a new trade and investment framework that would allow Wall Street banks to open up their own investment banking businesses in mainland China. This is a big deal.
You might have missed this one because it was reported in the Wall Street Journal the day before the recent election. Donald Trump has clearly stated he wants to renegotiate everything with China. This could be a part of that.
At the moment these Wall Street banks can only operate in China if they pair up with another Chinese bank. You can imagine the hesitation in doing that (over loss of proprietary information, for starters).
But if the Wall Street banks could operate on their own they could underwrite initial public offerings on the local Chinese exchanges and be up for a lot more business. This is a highly profitable activity.
Now its too early to say if anything will come from all this in terms of the US banks penetrating into China. But just right now, view this development in terms of the real estate cycle I mentioned earlier.
Phil Anderson has said for years that this current real estate cycle which has never failed to turn, since at least back to 1800 in the US and back to 1600 in the UK could really kick off in a big way if US banks got access to Mainland China. In turn, Chinese banks became part of the global system, which they are not presently.
Events just keep coming in to keep this cycle turning. Cycles, Trends and Forecasts has said the same thing since it launched: the world is on track for the biggest boom of all time. Go here to find out how to take advantage of it.
Regards,
Callum
I think anything past a double D is starting to get out of control it feels like all you are is boobs.
Members of the Rotary Club of Morganton got to celebrate with member Randall Brackett on Wednesday, Oct. 19 as state Rep. Hugh Blackwell (R-86) presented him with the states Order of the Long Leaf Pine, an award issued by the North Carolina governors office to recognize those who have had a significant, positive impact on the state through many years of career and volunteer achievements.
Brackett, whose last position before retirement was as associate superintendent of Burke County Public Schools, chose to receive his award at the Rotary Club meeting, according to Rotary Club President Hugh Morgan.
Were so proud of Randall Brackett receiving this very significant award from the governor, Morgan said. Were so appreciative of Rep. Hugh Blackwell being here to convey this to him on behalf of the governor. And were particularly touched that Randall wanted this to happen at a Rotary meeting.
Brackett said he joined the Rotary Club of Morganton in 1985 at the urging of his father-in-law, Harold McLaughlin. He said he appreciates the opportunities to network with other professionals and serve the community that the Rotary club provides.
Rotary District Gov. Gary Dills was in attendance as Brackett his received his award, as well as Bracketts wife, Lynda, and daughter, Leah. Brackett and his wife also have a son, Jason, who was not able to make it to the meeting.
Blackwell, who nominated Brackett for the award, shared some of his experiences working with him. The two got to know each other when Blackwell served on the school board from 1987-95. Brackett worked for BCPS from 1985-2008.
Blackwell said Brackett was invaluable in helping the board find money for projects, transferring funds to various accounts to spend on things needed. He said Brackett took great pains over the years to keep the school systems fund balance in good supply. His financial savvy helped pay for projects such as the Reduced Class Size program, in which BCPS set a goal of having one teacher for every 15 students on average in first-, second- and third- grade classrooms.
We didnt get any more money from the state to do that, Blackwell said. That money was largely available, and we were able to move forward with that program, in great measure, because Randall did such a great job in managing the funds so we could hire the additional teachers to do the professional development and all the things that were a part of that program working successfully. Without Randall, that wouldnt have happened. That program was written up in US News and World Report and the Chicago Tribune for the model it offered in how you do a better job in providing education.
Blackwell said complaints about open classrooms during his tenure spurred plans to build new schools. He said Brackett helped the school board come up with a $33.4 million bond issue for Burke County the first bond issue to go before voters in nearly 40 years. The bond issue passed, and every school in the county got some sort of improvement.
Bracketts office worked with architects and contractors to make sure projects came in on time and under budget. Blackwell said Brackett set funds aside for Table Rock and Heritage Middle Schools be wired for computers as they were being built, which made them two of the leading schools in the state at the time to be equipped for technology.
We are still benefitting from those buildings, from those computers, from those smaller class sizes, from those things he helped us to do, Blackwell said.
Blackwell said Brackett also made sure funds were available to give teachers larger salary supplements so BCPS could compete for the best teachers alongside larger school districts, such as the one in Hickory.
He said he consistently draws on the experience and knowledge he gained from working with Brackett.
Hes been a tremendous asset because hes a smart guy and a hard worker, Blackwell said. When he worked for the schools, he was concerned with what was in their best interest.
Brackett, a Burke County native, said he knew early on he wanted to pursue his interest in business and finance. He graduated from Western Carolina University with a degree in business administration with a concentration in accounting data processes in 1968.
Upon returning from college, Brackett got a job as a social worker with the Burke County Department of Social Services and worked there for two years before becoming the first purchasing agent at the Western Carolina Center, now called the J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center.
Brackett said he was not chosen for the Vietnam War draft, but served in the National Guard from 1969 to 1975.
After 15 years with WCC, Brackett was recruited to BCPS by then school board member John Mull to work as the school systems finance officer. He was soon promoted by former BCPS superintendent Carlos Hicks to assistant superintendent. Former superintendent David Burleson promoted Brackett to associate superintendent years later.
I was in charge of finance, support services, facilities, bus drivers, transportation and maintenance anything that was not educational, I was responsible for, Brackett said.
Current BCPS superindentent Larry Putnam shared his thoughts on Bracketts career with BCPS and his being chosen for the award.
Mr. Brackett is a well-deserved recipient of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine award, Putnam said. This prestigious award recognizes what many of us already know about Mr. Brackett. His contributions to Burke County Public Schools and to the county of Burke have made a positive impact on the lives of many. Even though Mr. Brackett is retired from the school system, he continuously serves as a local fireman and a Rotarian. It goes without saying that he practices the Rotarian motto of Service above Self.
Brackett has a long history of protecting residents from fire. He said he started two volunteer fire departments, the first in the Carbon City area in 1969, before it became incorporated by the city of Morganton. He later became the first and only chief of the West End Volunteer Fire Department in the Dysartsville area near the McDowell County line in 1972-73.
We didnt have fire protection in this community, so a bunch of people got together and organized a fire department, and I happened to be one of the charter members, Brackett said. Theres no sacrifice somebody can give to the community thats any more of a challenge than being a volunteer fireman. You get up in the middle of the night and risk your life for people you dont even know. I think its a calling.
In addition to serving as fire chief and participating in Rotary Club activities, Brackett has kept busy during his retirement with many other projects. He has served in leadership positions with the Brentwood Water Corporation, the Morganton Day School, the Rutherford Electric Membership Corporation and the North Carolina and Burke County Cattlemens Associations.
Upon receving the award, Brackett was quick to recognize his wife and daughter as the source of his success.
Without them, I couldnt have done any of that, Brackett said. Theyve supported me in everything Ive undertaken to do and carried me in everything you could expect.
He recognized mentors in his life in addition to Hicks and Burleson, such as Tom Walton and Bob Choate.
I had the best of the best, Brackett said. I had the best opportunity to be successful and to be part of the community.
Tammie Gercken can be reached at tgercken@morganton.com.
A mistake in paperwork has put off the auction of some properties in Pine Mountains Lakes.
Eastern Saving Bank was expected to sale on Nov. 1 to the highest bidder unit sites 50, 25, 10 and 48 of Pine Mountains Lakes Tree Top Village Country Homes.
But because the notice of sale had the wrong county listed, the sale was moved to 10 a.m. on Nov. 30, according to the new filing. The sale will take place in the front lobby of the Burke County Courthouse. It is a cash sale . Outer Banks/Kinnakeet owns the property and the registered agent and managing partner is Ray Hollowell.
The bank has taken action against the company to collect on a more than $12 million judgment the bank won against Hollowell and Outer Banks/Kinnakeet in the eastern part of the state.
The properties are on Kinglet Road in Connelly Springs, according to the notice. The high bidder of the property will be required to pay 10 percent of the bid in cash at the sale. The remaining amount will be due after the last day of the upset bid period, the notice says.
This is not the first time Eastern Saving Bank has tried to sell the property.
In January, the bank took legal action against the company to foreclose on the properties and auction them at the courthouse.
However, the sale was stopped when Outer Banks/Kinnakeet filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy, which put a stay on the auction, according to court officials. The bankruptcy petition was filed in the eastern district of North Carolina.
The bankruptcy case was dismissed because Hollowell couldnt comply with the requirements of the Bankruptcy Code, Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure and Local Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure, according to court documents. The bankruptcy documents say Hollowell also failed to pay the attorney who had filed the case on his behalf.
Burke County officials have been after Hollowell for years to pay up on property taxes that corporations hes associated with owe the county.
In August 2014, Burke County sent a letter to Attorney General Roy Coopers office asking his office to investigate Hollowell, who they said owed more than $200,000 in taxes, interest and lien fees at the time on property he owns in Pine Mountain. The AGs office responded, saying it didnt have jurisdiction in the case.
So In May 2014, county commissioners passed a resolution not to allow the transfer of a deed unless the property taxes on it are paid. A statement also can be attached to the deed that says once the property has sold, the taxes owed will be paid from the proceeds of the sale, according to county officials.
As of July, Outer Banks/Kinnakeet owed $22,176.85 in delinquent Burke County property taxes, according to county officials.
Other corporations with which Hollowell is associated that owed delinquent or current Burke County property taxes, as of July, were:
Burke Mountain Southeast - $192,836.40
Bon View - $32,625.50
Virginia Highland - $4,561.91
My Mountain - $1,816.99
BGMC - $1,336.18
New Highland - $1,148.85
Tall Pines - $752.06
In addition, more than 25 property owners in the Pine Mountain development, as well as Pine Mountain Property Owners Association Inc., signed onto the lawsuit against Hollowell, his associated businesses and at least eight other property owners in the development. The plaintiffs sued Hollowell and the other owners mentioned for breaches of fiduciary duty, unfair and deceptive trade practices, nonpayment of assessments, unjust enrichment and the removal of the board of directors and officers of the association, according to the lawsuit, which was filed in Burke County in late July.
In early October, Superior Court Judge Robert Bell ordered the case be stayed until all members of the Pine Mountain Property Association are joined in the case, according to members of the association. Bell also ordered that counsel, after consultation, nominate for court appointment three disinterested directors or people who will determine whether it is in the best interest of the corporation (property owners association) to pursue the lawsuit, according to members of the association.
Sharon McBrayer is a staff writer and can be reached at smcbrayer@morganton.com or at 828-432-8946.
After three years of sitting empty, the former Walmart building on Burkemont Avenue will once again be filled with merchandise and jobs.
Rural King plans to move into the 89,000-square-foot building. The property was sold to Morganton ABG LLC in July, according to the Burke County Register of Deeds office. According to the North Carolina Department of Secretary of State corporations filing, the address for Morganton ABG is the same for Rural King in Mattoon, Illinois, where the company is based.
The company plans to hold interviews Monday through Friday at the Morganton state employment office at 720 E . Union St . Interviews will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Friday. Appointments arent necessary for an interview but applicants have to be 18 years old and be able to pass a drug test, according to company information.
The city of Morganton has issued permits for the project, including for renovations to the inside of the building.
It is looking to fill full-time and part-time positions, including in management, sales, receiving, small engine mechanic, clothing processor and maintenance.
According to its website, the company sells everything from livestock feed, farm equipment and agricultural parts to lawn mowers, workwear, fashion clothing, housewares and toys.
The company has 93 stores in 11 states and it plans to open an average of 10 stores a year. It appears the Morganton store will be the first in North Carolina. The other states where Rural King has store locations are Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, Michigan, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia and Florida.
To find out more about jobs with the company, visit www.RKtalent.com. To find out more about the company, visit www.ruralking.com.
Sharon McBrayer is a staff writer and can be reached at smcbrayer@morganton.com or at 828-432-8946.
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Federal authorities along with representatives from provincial and city governments announced the inauguration of 18 new affordable housing projects in London, ON as well as the surrounding region.In a November 10 press release by Ontarios Ministry of Housing, the officials declared that the 281 housing unitsfunded in part by $9,306,546 in municipal contributions from London and Middlesex Countywill cater to the needs of at-risk populations such as financially struggling households and individuals with physical disabilities.Our government is supporting initiatives that give families and individuals the safe and affordable housing they need. We know that once people have a roof over their heads, they can concentrate on other things in their lives, like having time to spend with their loved ones or securing long-term employment. These new initiatives in London and the surrounding area will help strengthen our community, according to Deb Matthews, MPP London North Centre.We know that housing is instrumental in raising people out of poverty. There is no better way to address poverty than to start with the foundation of safe, secure housing. I am so pleased to see all levels of government working together to address the housing crisis, London mayor Matt Brown said.The announcement came in the wake of Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynnes assurances late last month that her government has no plans of implementing a property transfer tax similar to that of the 15 per cent levy slapped by B.C. authorities on foreign buyers.B.C. has put in place a particular mechanism; we are not going to use that mechanism, Wynne told reporters.Observers have welcomed these statements, noting that overseas nationals are not major movers in Toronto real estate at the moment, amounting to approximately only around 5 to 10 per cent of home buyers in the provincial capital.Related Stories:
In the wake of the U.S. presidential elections, legal professionals who are entertaining questions from Americans said that the sudden surge in immigration and real estate purchase inquiries does not necessarily point to actual cross-border movements in the near future.Data from real estate website Point2Homes revealed that the number of visits from potential home buyersmost of which were looking for residential properties in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and Cape Bretonoriginating from the U.S. spiked by an astounding 282 per cent the day after the November 8 polls.This could be an immediate reaction to events, immigration lawyer Arghavan Gerami told the Ottawa Citizen. We have to assess this over the longer run to see how many of them actually follow through with immigration to Canada.Ottawa-based lawyer Bhramba Kullur agreed, saying that he has received at least 6 calls from anxious Americans between election night and November 10.They tell you, You know what happened in the U.S. and we dont feel that rights will be respected, Kullur recounted. Its a concern. They are inquiring.These observations mirrored recent statements housing industry observers, who noted that despite the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website crashing due to a spike in traffic from American queries in the few hours before poll results started coming, any effects of the U.S. elections on Canadian real estate will take some time to gain traction.Its too early to know what it means for Canadian housing markets. Nobody knows what it means for the Canadian economy writ large, let alone housing markets across the country, Canadian Real Estate Association chief economist Gregory Klump wrote in a statement.Apprehension over the prospect of a Trump presidency has simmered in the months leading up to the elections: In the period covering January to October 2016, jobs website Monster.com saw more than 30,000 queries for the search term Canada on Monsters U.S. portal. And in the first two months of the year alone, a website dedicated to promoting Cape Breton real estate parcels garnered nearly half a million visits.Related Stories:
For all but a few days of the year -- mainly around the start of a semester -- college bookstores are focused much more on building school brands than on selling textbooks. They might as well be called college hoodie stores.
American University, in a shift reflecting that retail reality, this fall joined a modest but growing number of schools that have removed textbooks from their campus stores.
Any student at the private university in Washington who wants to buy a textbook may of course still do so, through an online site AU promotes that offers price discounts and rapid delivery of hard copies to the campus. But the store itself has not a single copy on hand of the many textbooks that are required reading at AU. The only books in stock, as of [Nov. 7] were a few mass-market volumes, including To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins and Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
Most students dont seem to mind. They and their peers at colleges elsewhere long ago became savvy online shoppers, hunting for used copies, cheap rentals or even free excerpts of the texts they need -- all in the quest to save precious dollars for other school expenses.
But Yazmin Padilla, 19, a sophomore from Arizona, confessed that she was a bit nostalgic for the now-vanished sight of stacks of textbooks.
You knew they were expensive, but they were there, Padilla said. I liked looking at them.
Padilla, an international studies major, figures she spent about $300 on books this semester. She found some through the AU website and others elsewhere. She usually compares prices through sites such as Slugbooks.com. She likes hard copies but doesnt mind e-books once in awhile, such as the text she uses for Spanish language class. Her goal is simple: Find the best deal -- as efficiently as possible.
That is what AU wants too.
Were trying to be as efficient as we can with every square foot we have, said Charles Smith, AUs director of auxiliary services. A staircase inside the bookstore that once led to a lower floor where the textbooks were kept has now been sealed off. The space is being remodeled to accommodate student events and a university dining club.
Smith said he heard few complaints after the university announced the switch during the summer. Two students voiced concerns about not being able to see and handle textbooks they might buy, Smith said. But for the most part the changeover was uneventful.
Better Cheaper Online, reads a sign posted outside the store. Weve taken the books out of the store, but not out of your hands. The sign says that students who buy online can get 10 percent off the price of new or used textbooks, and discounts of up to 80 percent on rentals.
Its been good for the students, Smith said. Very good for the students.
Lindsay Petelinkar, 19, a sophomore in international studies from Pennsylvania, said she is a bargain hunter and doesnt mind waiting a day or two for the university to deliver her texts. Its totally worth the wait for the cheaper book, she said.
A decade ago, college bookstores were often considered major revenue generators for schools, Smith said. Now, he said, AU views its store mainly as a resource for students and as an opportunity to build the school brand for alumni, parents and other visitors who might crave an AU sweatshirt or a plush stuffed Eagle (the school mascot).
Market research for the National Association of College Stores, a trade group, shows that students these days get their course materials through an average of about two sources, and that 40 percent of students rent at least one required text. Students spent an average of about $600 on required course materials for the 2015-2016 academic year.
Most of the nations estimated 4,500 campus stores still stock and sell hard copies of textbooks.
We dont have exact numbers on how many schools have gone virtual-only for textbooks, but the majority still carry textbooks and offer both in-store and on-line purchase options, said Jenny Febbo, an association spokeswoman.
George Washington and Georgetown universities, also in the District of Columbia, said they still stock textbooks.
GW spokeswoman Maralee Csellar said the school has a cost-match program to reward students who show proof that another bookseller has a lower price on the same book sold at GWs store. In that case, she said, a student will get the difference back in the form of a gift card.
Georgetowns Barnes & Noble College outlet said it also advertises a variety of ways to stay competitive on price, through price matching, book rentals, used-book sales and buyback programs.
But its important to remember that the college bookstore isnt just about selling books,said Patrick Maloney, president of Barnes & Noble College. The bookstore is a key part of a students success both inside and outside the classroom.
Maloney said the store functions as a social hub on campus -- a place where new students can get their books and where alumni and fans visit ... when they come back to campus.
If Donald Trump wants to be an effective president, he can look at his predecessor for the blueprint -- and do the opposite.
President Obama leaves office with a record of destruction to his own party. The White House has changed hands, as has the Senate and House, since he took office. The number of Democratic Party governors is down (by more than 10), and state legislatures across the nation went from blue to red in eye-opening proportions. In fact, Republicans control more than twice as many state legislative chambers.
Want more proof? Can someone tell us who the Democrats have next in line to run for president? The answer is there isnt a next in line. The Democratic Party is without someone to hang its hat on come 2020. Translation: The last eight years was more about Obama than his party and certainly the nation.
So President-elect Donald Trump, heres a little advice. Dont do that. In our view, this nation is ready to return to the center-right. Go bold, be ambitious but dont do so at the expense of conservatism. We know the political landscape as it appears now, and we expect you to leave it in better shape than when you came into office.
Do we have hopes for the upcoming four years in terms of policy? Yes.
Republican leadership should:
-- replace the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) with something sustainable for the long term.
Its not enough to repeal the ACA. Show you can govern -- Republicans have to prove they can govern -- and put something in place that is better for all Americans.
-- reform entitlements.
These are the biggest drivers of long-term debt. Neither candidate really made entitlement spending an issue in the campaign, but ignoring Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid will make matters worse. National debt held by the public is forecast to exceed the size of the economy by 2033, according to FixTheDebt.org.
- back up Trumps comments regarding the inner cities.
Prove that Trump was right that Republicans can do more for the inner cities in a short amount of time than Democrats did in decades. This can guarantee a Republican majority for generations.
-- proceed with immigration reform.
Institute even tougher penalties for those caught employing illegal immigrants; penalize cities that have certain procedures to shelter illegal immigrants (those so-called sanctuary cities); require mandatory minimum sentence standards for those who have been deported and then come back into the United States illegally and are convicted of an aggravated felony; and take steps for increased border protection.
- get serious about infrastructure.
This is a good place to start creating jobs. Americas roads and bridges need rebuilding. This provides another opportunity for a Republican majority to show Democrats that rebuilding Americas infrastructure can be done on budget.
- decide on a foreign policy path and turn it over to the generals.
If Trump needs help with success in the Middle East, he can ask for direction from former Defense Secretary Robert Gates, arguably the best secretary of defense in a generation. America is war-weary, but the men and women in uniform will accomplish the task at hand if politicians stay out of the way.
And there are other issues. Tax reform and creation of an all-of-the-above energy policy that plays on our nations strengths are obvious. And we expect both to take place without much fanfare. As far as the appointment of a Supreme Court justice, Trump has a list that conservatives have apparently blessed, so we dont expect any problems there.
In the end, Republicans have never been in a more advantageous governing position. This should be the defining moment for the party, conservatism and our nation.
New members inducted into Institute of ...
AMARILLO Dr. Charlie Rush is claiming success tomatoes from a Texas A&M AgriLife Research high tunnel project are being sold in an Amarillo grocery store.
And now the real work begins.
We delivered tomatoes to United Supermarket in Amarillo, and they were thrilled to get them, Rush said. The next day we delivered jalapenos and poblano peppers. We can produce a quality product and there is clearly a market for the produce.
Now, we need to work on maximizing yields, cropping systems and pest management, provide an economic analysis and convince a few growers to give it a go.
Rush, an AgriLife Research plant pathologist in Amarillo, said the project is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Ogallala Research Initiative and the Texas Department of Agriculture Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The projects goal is to provide locally grown tomatoes and other high-quality vegetables to the public.
This years crop, which suffered setbacks in its inaugural season, has produced about 1,500 pounds of tomatoes, of which almost 500 pounds were marketed through United, along with almost 500 pounds of jalapeno and poblano peppers, he said.
Rush started construction of four high tunnels in April. Dr. Kevin Crosby, an AgriLife Research tomato breeder in College Station, and a breeder with a private company in California each identified the best varieties for the project and provided seed for the study.
Those seeds were planted in a greenhouse first, then transplanted in early May. Drip tape was installed to water the 20 plants of each line in each of the four tunnels.
The trial provided learning opportunities, Rush said. Rabbits ate early crops so fencing was installed. There were initial difficulties getting water and electricity to the high tunnels. Extreme heat in the high tunnels caused a number of the newly planted seedlings to die, and the entire study was replanted May 16. That was followed by a high incidence of tomato spotted wilt in the transplants, so the entire study was replanted again on June 30.
Rush said a typical high tunnel has six rows in cultivation, but only two rows were planted this year in two different high tunnels. An exact replica of the high tunnel experimental design was planted in a field adjacent to the tunnels for comparison.
The first tomatoes were harvested on Sept. 27 and the fruit was picked weekly, divided into marketable and unmarketable, and weighed, he said. Then it was sent to the Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center at Texas A&M University in College Station for quality analysis.
Tomatoes purchased from local retail grocers were included in the quality analysis as comparative commercial controls, Rush said. The tomatoes from all four cultivars raised in the high tunnel plots were evaluated in a blind test for taste and appearance.
Tomato yields have been higher in the high tunnel plots than in the field, he said. Of the four cultivars, the three from the Texas A&M program have significantly out-yielded the commercial entry from California, possibly because the Texas A&M entries were developed for Texas growing conditions and the California entry was not.
In the taste and appearance test, the Texas A&M cultivars grouped together in the results and all were judged to taste significantly better than either the California entry or commercial control, which also grouped together statistically in the rankings, Rush said.
He said the testing allowed participants to rank the five entries first on looks, then on taste, as well as do another taste comparison between tomatoes grown inside and outside.
The taste test is really what it is all about, because it gets down to the consumer and what they like and what they dont like, Rush said.
The California entry also was significantly different in quality parameters measured at the Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center from the Texas A&M cultivars, but it was the same as the grocery store controls, Rush said. This could be because there is a high likelihood that tomatoes obtained as a control from the grocery store came from California.
He said tomato plants growing inside the protected area produced about 25 percent more than plants growing in outside plots, and quality inside the tunnels was as good or better than those grown outside.
That means you can get more tomatoes inside the high tunnels and get just as high quality of a product as trying to grow a tomato outside, Rush said. Often you hear that greenhouse-grown tomatoes are not very good. And certainly tomatoes that are shipped from hundreds if not thousands of miles away and end up in the grocery store are often not very tasty, especially when they have to be picked green and shipped so far.
We demonstrated this year that it is possible to produce good yields of very high-quality, locally grown vegetables and market them to local retailers, he said.
United Grocery Markets began collaborating with Rush in the middle of the project, stating they were looking for a steady and constant supply of high quality, locally grown produce. The first AgriLife Research-produced tomatoes from the high tunnels were delivered to their store Oct. 27, and peppers grown in the high tunnels followed a couple days later.
In the coming months, we will complete analyzing and graphing of the data from this project, Rush said. We will compare how the tomato varieties differed in the incidence and abundance of major pests and beneficial insects.
We will also quantify seasonal pest pressure, which will be useful in providing recommendations for planting time and pest scouting efforts in the High Plains, he said. Quality and yield data will be analyzed to compare the cultivars used in this study and high tunnel and field production.
Another aspect Rush is monitoring is water savings.
Tomatoes are fairly water intensive in their requirements, but you are able to get so many more tomatoes in such a small area compared to an acre of corn, so way more income with a lot less overall water.
Rush estimated, based on limited production the first year, that a high tunnel with six rows, about 240 plants, could produce almost 2,300 pounds of tomatoes. These could be sold for $1 to $3 per pound, depending if they were sold to a retail grocery store or at a farmers market.
To get that yield this year, we applied 38,000 gallons of water, he said. Although that sounds like a lot of water, is isnt much when compared to what is required to grow a corn crop. For instance, the average yield of corn is approximately 175 bushels per acre and it takes about 21 acre inches or about 570,000 gallons of water to grow it.
At todays market price of around $3.50 per bushel, that means a farmer would gross a little over $600 for an acre of corn, and he would need 21 acre inches of water to do that. At just $1 a pound, growing tomatoes in just one high tunnel could gross $2,300 for only 1.4 acre inches of water.
Rush said he thinks he can increase tomato yields and use less water than he did this year, but he also acknowledges that labor costs for production of high-value vegetable crops will be much higher.
He has recruited Dr. Bridget Guerrero, an agricultural economist from West Texas A&M University, to conduct an economic analysis of high tunnel vegetable production.
Her analysis is the type of information required by farmers to determine whether they are willing to try this new venture, Rush said. It wont be for everyone, but because of the declining water table in the Ogallala Aquifer, small farmers and those with limited irrigation capabilities may consider giving high-value vegetable production a try.
We are convinced this research will reveal a number of new business opportunities for agriculture in the Texas Panhandle, he said. We are very excited about its potential for the future. We are saving water, producing a commodity that people like and that is locally grown, so it looks like it is a win-win for everybody.
Military officials were investigating whether four Air Force security guards burned a cross in a home's back yard and participated in other supremacist activities.
The four men, members of the 377th Security Forces Squadron at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, were relieved of duty and restricted to base, base spokesman Ralph Francis said.
Their names will not be released until military officials complete their investigation, Francis said.
He said the men had Confederate flags, Nazi swastikas and literature from the Ku Klux Klan _ things that he said are not "illegal to possess, but it depends on how it's being used." Their other alleged activities were not specified.
Military regulations prohibit supremacist actions such as participating in public rallies to recruit members for groups that support illegal discrimination, Francis said.
The cross burning occurred Saturday in the fenced yard of a home in southeastern Albuquerque. City police found it after neighbors complained about a loud party. The four were arrested on charges of disorderly conduct and turned them over to base officials.
Francis said a preliminary internal investigation showed that the cross-burning was not directed at anyone.
If the men participated in the activities, he said, they could face penalties ranging from administrative action to court martial.
___
On the Net:
Squadron: http://www.kirtland.af.mil/Organizations/SecurityForces
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Hundreds of students from about a dozen Oakland high schools ditched the classroom for the streets Monday to show their discontent with the election of Donald Trump as 45th president of the United States in the fourth day of school walkouts around the Bay Area.
Students congregated at the Fruitvale BART station Monday just before noon and then marched with their peers in a demonstration against Trump, police militarization, mass incarceration and gentrification. They were also protesting to maintain sanctuary cities for undocumented immigrants and to protect lands of native people.
We hope to get our rights and just get our freedom. We want less racism, stop the violence, all of that, said Salvador Briseno, a 14-year-old Coliseum College Prep Academy student.
Students have staged protests large and small across the Bay Area since Trumps election last week. The daytime demonstrations have usually preceded rallies that have lasted late into the night on the streets of Oakland, Berkeley and San Francisco, some of which have turned destructive and violent.
Oscar Calderon, 21, who works with a Latino youth group and helped organize the walkout, said Mondays demonstration was the result of students from about a dozen different schools coordinating together far more than the protests last week.
Some students had left their classrooms at CCPA, Golden State Prep, Alternatives in Action High School, Aspire Lionel Wilson College Preparatory Academy, Castlemont High School, Madison Park Academy and Oakland United High School right when school started, while others were planning to walk out later in the day.
John Sasaki, a spokesman for Oakland Unified School District, said that Monday would be the final day for students to have leniency for skipping class, though disciplinary actions for truancy have yet to be decided. Discussions about the election will continue in classrooms and through town hall meetings and assemblies, he said.
The protest was entirely student-led and not sanctioned by the school, Sasaki added.
Carla Franco, also a 14-year-old student at CCPA, said Trumps characterization of Mexican immigrants as rapists and criminals couldnt be further from the truth. Her parents came here seeking a better life, Franco said, and now she like families across the country are worried about their relatives and friends being deported.
"I feel like most people tell us, Why does it matter? He became president already, she said. We just want him to know we don't support what he's said about us. We feel like it's better to unite as people and show them we don't support him.
Kate Dillon, 30, a resource teacher at the school, said administrators did not sanction the walkout but also didnt stand in the way of students who wanted to leave.
Students in sixth and seventh grades were told they were too young to participate, Dillon said.
We don't want Donald Trump, said 18-year-old Keziah Tokes of Dewey Academy. We need someone to represent the black and brown community, especially in politics. The government and white supremacy doesn't represent us.
Oakland students werent alone in their walkouts. Students from high schools around the Bay Area joined in on the protest by marching out of their classrooms throughout the day.
About 200 to 300 Menlo-Atherton High School students in Menlo Park took to the streets about 1:30 p.m. to share their dissatisfaction over Trump. They made marched to Highway 101, but quickly retreated after officers said they would be arrested if they entered the freeway, said Nicole Acker, a spokeswoman for the Menlo Park Police Department.
Our responsibility is to keep the protesters safe and make sure they are obeying the rules of the road, Acker said.
Nearly 150 students from Redwood High School in Larkspur also walked out of classes at the same time.
Emily OBrien Meyer, a 15-year-old student at Redwood High School, said the atmosphere was tense as anti-Hillary Clinton protesters threatened to beat kids up for not supporting Trump.
It got a little heated, OBrien Meyer said. Im not sure [the protests] will achieve anything besides showing how we feel. Hes going to be president, no matter what.
A group of men taunted a UC Santa Cruz student and one of them threw a rock at her, striking the student in the head as she walked through campus, police said Monday.
The aggravated assault may have been a hate crime because of the actual or perceived gender and sexuality of the student, said university spokesman Scott Hernandez-Jason, though he didnt elaborate on the incident.
The assault happened about 11:30 p.m. Friday as the student was walking near the Quarry Amphitheater on her way home to her dormitory, school officials said. Three men, who appeared to be in their 20s, followed her and yelled at her in an offensive manner, the schools police chief, Nader Oweis, said in a community alert.
As the student continued walking past the amphitheater toward Colleges Nine and Ten, one of the males struck her on the head using a rock, the alert said. She was able to flee the area and get help.
Paramedics with the Santa Cruz Fire Department treated the woman for minor injuries from the rock strike.
Meanwhile, on the UC Berkeley campus, two students said a man in his 50s yelled homophobic and racial slurs at them as students congregated on Sproul Plaza to watch the election results Tuesday night.
The man then spat at the students, according to police, who are investigating the incident as a hate-motivated battery.
Last week, California Attorney General and incoming U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris sent a bulletin to police agencies around the state outlining hate-crime laws in response to an uptick in threats of hate crimes and other violent extremism.
Reports of hate crimes had fallen in the past decade, the bulletin said, but jumped more than 10 percent between 2014 and 2015, fueled by a rise in crimes fueled by religious bias.
Kimberly Veklerov is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: kveklerov@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @kveklerov
UPDATED
George Strait is back in the saddle.
The country music superstar will be announcing some upcoming Las Vegas shows and celebrate a new album when he plays a private show near New Braunfels this week. The concert will be live streamed starting at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Strait.WranglerNetwork.com.
Strait Out of The Box: Part 2 comes out Friday. The Walmart exclusive features 56 songs recorded from 1996 to 2016 on three discs, including two new singles.
Going back through all the songs for this box set does bring back a lot of old memories, Strait said in a statement to the Express-News about selecting the songs. A lot of them we considered for radio singles and for whatever reason, we just picked something else. It was not that hard to pick them after I looked through them because there are just so many that are my favorites.
Strait is set to perform in Dec. 2-3 and Feb. 17-18 at T-Mobile Arena in Vegas. Tickets are $75 to $200 and are available online from T-Mobile Arena.
While Wednesdays show is absolutely closed to the public, one may get a little surprise if theyre floating the Guadalupe River anywhere near the Gruene water tower and wondering if theyre really hearing King George.
Strait famously retired from large-school touring with his Ace in the Hole Band following the Cowboy Rides Away tour a few years back. His final San Antonio appearance was June 1, 2013, at the Alamodome, attracting a record 73,086 fans.
Last year, he released the album Cold Beer Conversation.
Tip Top Cafe has closed its second location at 13835 Nacogdoches at O'Connor roads, a little more than a year after opening it.
Jim Scott, managing partner of the Tip Top Cafe ownership group, released a statement in response to an inquiry from the Express-News saying the restaurant has closed for renovations.
Spain scored four goals against Macedonia in Granada. Three more points and some savings in the bank for the final goal difference, which could count if we finish tied on points with Italy, who beat Lichtenstein by the same scoreline. But it wasn't a game to get excited about for Spain. A frankly tame first half, constantly smashing into the Macedonia defence, without sending the right and left backs out to open up the pitch, and a somewhat better second 45, thanks to the tiredness that always comes upon teams who try and close the match down. The most startling thing though is that, with very little on offer, Macedonia created chances against us. The few times they crossed the half-way line they ended up with dangerous opportunities. De Gea didn't have a night off.
Full screen De Gea forced into action against Macedonia. JUAN FLOR DIARIO AS
Spain need to be spot on when their rivals shut up shop
Spain struggle in games like this: a rival with five at the back, protected by another three or four. When face with that, constant passing, if its done without vigour and ambition serves little purpose. The centre-forward, in this case Morata, ends up driven to despair in a cave, worse still if nobody is going down the wings. We see a lot of games along these lines. To get something out of them Spain needs energy, sacrifice and above all precision, and for most of the players to be sharp and spot on in everything they do. In the first part not many Spaniards played well, hence the poor impression, and it could have been worse: Macedonia had two clear chances in the opening minutes of the match.
Aduriz into the record books
Spain improved in the second half, above all thanks to the drive of Silva and Vitolo, who got better and better. The second goal, which calmed our nerves, came thanks to them, but after that Spain oddly relaxed, only breaking out with the match nearly over, in a miraculous minute that saw them score two goals. The first saw Carvajal cross to Monreal. The other was converted by Aduriz, who became the oldest player to have scored for Spain. And with the way he's playing he's likely to add yet more months to the record with a little bit of luck. Thanks to him, a game with not much to say about it, goes into the history books.
Courtesy photo / Waco and the Heart of Texas
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Its okay, Culture Trip, San Antonians know our city is beautiful.
The travel website released a list of what it considers to be the most beautiful cities in the Lone Star State. The list includes small towns like Hunt, Wimberley and Canyon.
RELATED: Most mispronounced Texas city names
There was no love for San Antonio, on the list, however.
Click through the slideshow to see what 10 Texas cities made Culture Trips list.
kbradshaw@express-news.net
Twitter: @kbrad5
NEWTOWN - The Board of Education will hear final comments from Newtowners and three ruling bodies this week in preparation for a vote next month on closing the middle school to address declining enrollment.
The proposed closing of Newtown Middle School will get a hearing first at the school board meeting Tuesday night, and then will be a subject of a joint budget meeting Wednesday with the Legislative Council and the boards of education, finance and selectmen.
That would clear the way for the seven-member school board to vote as soon as Dec. 6 on a recommendation that would:
Keep students in kindergarten through fourth grade in the districts four elementary schools.
Teach students in fifth through seventh grade at Reed Intermediate School.
Move eighth-graders to Newtown High School.
The middle school now houses seventh and eighth grades and Reed houses fifth and sixth.
As far the board making a decision about the middle school, it is a difficult issue and we want to consider everyones comments, school board President Keith Alexander said Monday. On the other hand, we dont want to let this drag on forever.
The recommendation to close the middle school is meant to address enrollment that has dropped by 1,000 students districtwide since the Great Recession and is expected to drop another 1,000 students within five years.
The recommendation comes from a task force that has been at work since 2015, when community objection to a plan to close Hawley Elementary School was so strong that the school board dropped the idea.
The boards decision to suspend action on that plan was in part to undertake deeper study about its options, but also to await the emotionally charged opening of the new Sandy Hook School in August.
The $50 million Sandy Hook School, paid for by the state, replaced the building where a gunman massacred 20 first-graders and six educators in 2012.
Although the debate about closing a school was especially emotional in Newtown, it is similar to challenges being faced in suburbs across the state, where declining enrollment is forcing school boards to make unpopular decisions.
In greater Danbury, for example, New Milfords Pettibone Elementary School closed in 2015 over the objection of many parents.
Ridgefield, Brookfield and the three small towns of Washington, Bridgewater and Roxbury that make up the Region 12 School District have also been working with demographers to find the best response to dwindling enrollment.
In Newtown, there is not the same community division as there was in 2015, when teachers and residents joined forces to sign petitions and speak out at public meetings.
There is certainly still a lot of public input, although maybe not as much as last time as far as people coming forward in opposition to it, Alexander said. Of course not everyone will agree, but I think that we have a substantial amount of information, and I am comfortable that the board will be able to come to a decision it can stand by.
Superintendent Joseph Erardi agreed.
I am certain that the school board will bring this to a close one way or another by December, he said.
rryser@newstimes.com; 203-731-3342.
MILFORD A recent Drug Take-Back Day event collected 313 pounds of unwanted prescription drugs, police said Monday.
The Oct. 22 event was co-sponsored by the police department and the Milford Prevention Council, in conjunction with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency. Residents were able to bring expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs as part of a nationwide initiative to prevent drug abuse and theft, Officer Joseph Dempsey said.
Volunteers from the Milford police Citizens Academy assisted with the event, said Dempsey, the department spokesman.
The collection provides a safer alternative than flushing the drugs down the toilet or throwing them out with the trash, Dempsey said Monday.
Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs, he said. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.
Visit the DEA website and click on National Prescription Take-Back Day for more information on future drug take back day events.
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STAMFORD Phyllis Sinrich travels the world looking through store windows for the faces of mannequins that strike her as lifelike.
A beret, a dress or particular hairstyle can enhance the way the figures resonate with her or others who pass by the same window, Sinrich said.
Mannequins have an unspoken power, the Stamford resident said. The unspoken power of a store mannequin is to attract us into the store and make a purchase. The human face is a very powerful thing to us as humans and each of these mannequins have a unique personality.
Sinrich became fascinated with mannequins when she was on a trip to the Mediterranean island of Corsica when she spotted a particularly life-like one. Since has since photographed upwards of a thousand of them in places like Germany, Italy and Morocco.
Sinrich was one of more than 40 local award-winning artists whose paintings, photographs and other works were on display at the Loft Artist Associations annual Open Studios exhibit at the South End gallery.
About 500 people attended the event, which began Friday night and continued Saturday and Sunday, to tour the studios 14 galleries, mingle with the artists and browse the work, said Ellen Gordon, president of the association.
Patty Fisher, a Cos Cob resident and art enthusiast, visited the show Saturday and said she was impressed by the level of skill and polish displayed in the work.
I liked a lot of stuff and Im starting to get interested in art and wanted to see what local artists bring to the table, Fisher said. There is a lot of talent in the area its amazing.
Barbara Mathis, a figurative painter and member of the association, displayed some of her most recent work from this summer. She had a series of oil on Masonite canvases depicting patrons of New York art museums, including the Museum of Modern Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Whitney Museum.
Mathis also had more canvases in a binder that she painted over the years, including some she had sold to private collectors. Her work has also been exhibited at the Katonah Museum of Art and by Pen & Brush. She was once the first woman to work in the news graphics department at ABC News New York.
A painter since her adolescence, Mathis said her work often comes from the pleasure she takes in watching others and meeting them.
Im a people watcher you could say, Mathis said of the paintings. With these canvases it occurred to me that the people looking at the paintings are more interesting than the art itself.
Gordon is also a mixed-media artist whose offerings included nearly a full wall of mostly small and disparate ink and color studies of her longtime muse, a 68-year-old professional model she has worked with for many years.
A lot of my artwork is larger and collage based, but this year I wanted to show smaller work, she said. These are looser and a little more abstract, whereas sometimes my work is more controlled.
Gordon said the associations 45 members pay annual dues of about $500, which helps cover rent and other costs of the 7,000-square-foot Pacific Street space the group moved into in 2013.
Additional revenue to cover costs comes from commissions from other exhibits, but not Open Studios, Gordon said.
In one of the studio spaces, Sarah Bamford, 34, of Old Greenwich, said she was considering buying one of the Impressionist styled paintings by Stamford artist Barbara Giannetta. Bamford attended the show on Sunday with her father, Edward Bamford, and her dog, Sumi, who is named for a Japanese form of black ink.
Bamford said she is fortunate to acquire the works of local artists and even befriend them.
When you develop a relationship with the artist, you know them and see the different work theyve created, Bamford said.
I consider it an investment and a worthy cause to support our local artists."
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In mid-October, 23 high school robotics teams from around Michigan came to Dow High to compete in the 3rd annual Great Lakes Bay Bot Bash.
Bot Bash is an annual FIRST Robotics Competition event hosted at Dow High School by four local teams Dow Highs The Charge, Saginaws Team Phoenix, Bullock Creeks Blitz Creek and Mount Pleasants Flat Mountain Mechanics.
This competition gave teams the opportunity to play the 2016 game, FIRST Stronghold. FIRST Stronghold involves two alliances of three robots each, working to break down the defenses and castle of the opposing alliance and capture their flag by launching boulders at their tower.
Bot Bash not only allows teams to have a chance to compete one more time with last seasons robot, but is also an excellent recruiting opportunity for robotics teams. For many freshman and rookie students, this is the first competition they will attend and it gives them an excellent idea of what is to come when teams receive their new game challenge in January.
Being a first time driver, it really opened up a new perspective showing me how to operate under pressure said Lucas Foote, a junior at Dow High.
Bot Bash 2016 was won by the alliance of The Charge, the RoboJackets (Auburn Hills) and the ATA Coregears (Dearborn). Coming in second place was the alliance of Like A Boss (Midland High), the Rogue Robots (Midland Homeschool) and Bot Central (Bay City).
Other local teams winning awards include: Volatile Chaos Inhibitors (Meridian High) won the Hero Bot award, celebrating the team that showed exceptional graciousness during the competition; Rise of the Warrior Bots (Bay City Western High School) won the Fired Up Bot, celebrating a team that promotes enthusiasm through spectacular team spirit; Like a Boss won the Summit Bot award, celebrating a newer team that shows technical excellence and helps others succeed; and the Underdogs (St. Charles High School) won the Auto Bot award, celebrating a team with extraordinary autonomous programming.
Bot Bash sponsors include The Dow Chemical Co. and Midland Public Schools.
FIRST Robotics Competition high school teams will receive their new 2017 game challenge in January. Each team will then have six weeks to design, prototype, fabricate and program a new and unique 120 pound robot specifically designed to meet the new game challenge.
Being involved in FIRST Robotics gives students the opportunity to learn not only about building robots, but also finance, management, business, communications, mentoring and leadership. For more information visit www.firstinspires.org
Oct. 28
About 3 p.m., a vehicular collision occurred in the 4500 block of Holt St. Officers O'Sullivan and D. Guerra were dispatched to City of Bellaire Police Department lobby in reference to traffic accident that had previously occurred. The investigation indicated that the at fault driver had fled the scene and is still at large, the investigation is ongoing.
Oct. 31
At 8:28 p.m., Officers O'Sullivan and D. Guerra were dispatched to the 5100 block of Huisache Street in reference to an accident. The driver at fault was arrested for driving while intoxicated with a child and child endangerment.
At 9:29 a.m., Officers J. Trujillo and R. Guerra were dispatched to 6700 block of West Loop South in regards to a forgery in progress. Officers Trujillo and Guerra arrived about 9:32 a.m. and made contact with bank staff who advised them of the situation. Officers Trujillo and Guerra placed the suspect into custody for forgery and transported her to the City Bellaire booking for processing.
Nov. 3
At 7:33 p.m., Officer Delgado conducted a traffic stop at 5300 Bellaire Boulevard for no motor vehicle registration. Delgado made contact with the driver, who provided his Texas Identification Card, but was unable to provide proof of financial responsibility. Through computer inquiry the driver was found to have a suspended driver's license. The driver was placed in custody for driving while license invalid enhanced.
Nov. 4
At 12:18 p.m., Officer H. Lopez was dispatched to the Bellaire Motor Inn at 6639 Ferris St. in reference to a theft of a television. The reportee stated a customer who was staying at the motor inn stole a television prior to checking out of the motor inn.
At 2:27 a.m., Officer Barrientos was patrolling the area of 4700 Holly Street when he observed a silver 1993 Toyota Camry traveling westbound. Barrientos observed the Camry strike a parked vehicle. During the investigation, the driver was arrested for driving while intoxicated.
At 6:06 p.m., Officers O'Sullivan and D. Guerra conducted a traffic stop in the 6700 block of North Second Street for expired motor vehicle registration. Through computer query, the Texas temporary tags were found to be fictitious. The driver was placed under arrest for displaying fictitious plates.
At 3:14 p.m., Officer Ortega was dispatched to a single vehicle accident in the 5200 block of IH 610 NB at the crash barrels. The reportee/witness followed the suspect vehicle which exited the northbound lanes and re-entered IH 610 southbound lanes. Bellard located the suspect vehicle and initiated a traffic stop. Bellard observed the driver to have red bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, to be unsteady on his feet and to have the odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from his breath and or person. Upon further investigation, the suspect was placed into custody for driving while intoxicated.
Nov. 5
At 11:47 a.m., Officer Vorhees was dispatched to a suspicious vehicle in the 4300 block of Oleander Street. The vehicle was described as a silver Hyundai four-door with paper tags and a defective brake light. Vorhees observed a silver Hyundai Sonata in the 4600 block of Oleander Street and conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle in the 7100 block of East Service Road.
The driver was identified by his Texas driver's license and subsequently found to be operating a motor vehicle while his Texas Driver's License was currently under suspension.
Driver was placed in custody and transported to the Bellaire Jail, where he was booked for the charge of driving while license suspended (Class B misdemeanor).
State lawmakers began putting their campaign promises on paper Monday morning, as they filed hundreds of bills on the first filing day for the 2017 legislative session.
The proposals face a long road ahead, and only a small minority of them will make it out of committee, survive votes in both Capitol chambers and be signed into law by the governor's pen next year. Heres an early look at some the proposals expected to draw attention when lawmakers reconvene in Austin in January.
Abortion and womens health
Republicans were quick to file several anti-abortion measures on Monday.
House Bill 87 by state Rep. Matt Schaefer, R-Tyler, would make it illegal for women to have an abortion after 20 weeks of pregnancy even if doctors find the fetus has a severe, irreversible abnormality. Currently, state law allows abortions after 20 weeks only when the mothers life is in danger or when a severe fetal abnormality has been detected.
And state Rep. Byron Cook, R-Corsicana, wants Texas health care providers to be required to bury or cremate remains of aborted or miscarried fetuses. He filed House Bill 201, which echoes a recent proposal from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, made at the direction of Gov. Greg Abbott. Cook's bill would penalize health care providers $1,000 for not cremating or burying biological tissue from pregnancy. Medical leaders and reproductive rights activists have vehemently opposed the health commissions proposal, questioning why it doesnt allow exceptions for miscarriages or other pregnancy complications that make a fetus non-viable.
Education and child welfare
House Bill 112 by state Rep. Harold Dutton, D-Houston, would cap the amount of tuition public universities can charge students. Bills in the 2015 session to re-regulate tuition costs were unsuccessful. Universities oppose tuition regulation, in part because state funding now covers a smaller share of their budgets.
State Sen. Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, filed Senate Bill 35, which would create universal pre-kindergarten programs for 4-year-olds. It would also expand half-day pre-K to certain eligible 3-year olds. State lawmakers in 2015 approved a smaller grant program to expand pre-K education after Abbott named early education as his top legislative priority, though some pre-K advocates argued that the grants didn't go far enough.
State Rep. Eddie Lucio III, D- Brownsville, filed a bill to prohibit corporal punishment in schools.
And state Sen. Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, filed Senate Bill 77, which makes sexual assault of a parent grounds for terminating the assaulter's parental rights. Nelson said she filed the bill after being horrified to learn of a female constituent who was raped by her husband but could not have his parental rights removed. No parent should be forced to co-parent with their rapist, and this bill will provide stronger protections for victims of domestic assault, Nelson said in a statement.
Criminal justice
State Rep. Harold Dutton, D-Houston, filed House Bill 64 to abolish the death penalty. Another Dutton proposal, House Bill 158, would require grand jury hearings for police officers to be recorded. In Texas, grand jury proceedings are secret.
State Rep. James White, R-Woodville, filed House Bill 67 to abolish the driver responsibility program, which levies surcharges on drivers for traffic offenses. Lawmakers and criminal justice reformers have compared the unpopular program, which requires drivers convicted of certain traffic offenses, such as speeding and driving while intoxicated, to pay additional annual surcharges on top of any court fines and criminal penalties to maintain their drivers licenses, to an unfair tax on poor Texans. Still, previous attempts to abolish it have fallen short at the Capitol. Revenue from the program provides funding for trauma hospitals across the state.
LGBT matters
State Rep. Joe Moody, D-El Paso, filed a bill that would remove an obsolete, anti-gay law from the books. House Bill 96 would repeal the offense of homosexual conduct from the Texas criminal code. A 2003 U.S. Supreme Court case, Lawrence v. Texas, already struck down the states sodomy law as unconstitutional, meaning the current criminal statute is purely symbolic. Moodys bill would also change the states health and safety code to remove language that homosexuality is not a lifestyle acceptable to the general public.
Voting issues
House Bill 159, by Dutton, would allow online voter registration. State law currently requires Texans to provide a physical signature on voter registration forms.
And a series of measures proposed by state Sen. Don Huffines, R-Dallas, would impose term limits on elected officials in Texas. Senate Joint Resolutions 10, 12 and 13 would limit terms for state senators and representatives (12 years), elected judges, including those on the Texas Supreme Court (18 years), and local officials (a maximum of 12 years, at the discretion of the local governments). Huffines said the election of Republican Donald Trump, who has no prior political experience, proved that voters were fed up with career politicians. The measures would amend the Texas Constitution and need voter approval in a statewide election.
Health care
State Rep. Sarah Davis, R-West University Place, filed House Bill 120, which would allow parents to get exemptions from immunization requirements for their children for non-medical reasons, rather than reasons of conscience. Activists seeking to guard parents right to opt out of immunization requirements have mobilized as a political force in Texas, while public health experts widely support the elimination of non-medical exemptions to immunization requirements.
Meanwhile, Republican opposition to the federal Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, remained robust on the first day of bill filing. Incoming state Sen. Dawn Buckingham, R-Austin, announced she would file a non-binding resolution urging Congress to repeal the federal health law under the incoming Trump administration.
Transportation
Huffines filed a bill that would put rules governing transportation network companies, including taxi companies and ride-hailing firms, in the hands of the state.Senate Bill 113 comes after Austin voters this year elected to keep regulations that led Uber and Lyft, two app-based transportation network companies, or TNCs, to leave the states capital.
State Sen. Charles Schwertner, R-Georgetown, filed Senate Bill 176, which lays out specific, statewide regulations for the companies. His proposal would require national background checks for drivers and require that users are able to request wheelchair-accessible rides.
Food and agriculture
State Rep. Dan Flynn, R-Van, filed House Bill 57, which would allow licensed farmers to sell raw or unpasteurized milk in their homes, at their place of business or at a farmers market. The proposal which builds on similar legislation from 2015 would not allow the sale of raw milk in supermarkets. Flynn also filed House Bill 95, a proposal to remove Texas from daylight saving time.
State Rep. Eddie Lucio III, D-Brownsville, filed House Bill 164, which would create a statewide fund to subsidize the construction and renovation of grocery stores in food deserts in poor and moderate-income neighborhoods. The Texas Grocery Access Investment Fund would be funded through federal, state and private grants and loans as well as any funds appropriated by the Legislature.
A photo trip to Tanzania will be the topic of a program at the Midland Camera Club meeting from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15 in room 304 of Midland Evangelical Free Church, 721 N. Jefferson.
Club members images from club photo walks in Midland and Bay City and members black and white images will be shown during the clubs Nov. 22 meeting also from 7 to 9 p.m. at the same site.
He urged the facility to build strong research groups, while developing a number of major sciences, including computing, renewable energy, environment and maritime technology, thus enabling technology transfer and dealing with issues related to the environment, green growth and climate change.
Speaking at a ceremony on November 12th to mark the universitys 60th anniversary, he asked the university to further improve education and training quality to enhance the countrys human resources quality and meeting the requirement of the labour market.
It is crucial to design policies to attract high profile lecturers, while expanding external relations and creating favourable conditions for scientists to conduct research, he said.
Meanwhile, the university should also pay attention to build pure and strong Party organisation, increasing political awareness for students, lecturers and officials.
He requested other ministries, sectors and localities to support the university to promote its role as the leading research university in fundamental science of Vietnam, and enter top 100 Asian universities in 2020 and reaching Asian standard for a number of areas in 2030.
President Tran Dai Quang attends the ceremony (Photo: VNA) The University of Natural Sciences under the Hanoi National University, formerly known as Hanoi University, was established in 1956, becoming the first university offering fundamental science courses in the northern region, with 430 students initially. Prof. Nguy Nhu Kon Tum was the first headmaster of the university. On December 10th, 1993, the university was named the University of Natural Sciences and put under the management of Hanoi National University. It was the first facility in the country offering programmes for high-school, post-graduate, Master and PhD levels as well as special bachelor science courses for talents.
The facility has made excellent achievements during its 60-year operation, significantly contributing to the countrys education development as well as the national construction and defence.
As a top facility for fundamental science training, the university has announced more than 200 scientific researches each year at prestigious international science magazines, including the Nature Magazine.
At the ceremony, President Tran Dai Quang presented Ho Chi Minh Order to the university. This is the second time the facility has been honoured with the noble order../.
Conroe-based Galdisa USA Inc. is planning the construction of a $5.4 million peanut-processing facility at Conroe Park North industrial park.
It is expected to initially bring 24 full-time positions and an annual payroll of over $750,000.
The Conroe City Council approved a tax abatement agreement with the company Thursday. Montgomery County Commissioners Court approved the same agreement with the company.
Galdisa USA is an affiliate of Galdisa Mexico and specializes in supplying and processing peanuts, pumpkin seeds, hibiscus flower, broad beans and chickpeas. Representatives with Galdisa could not be reached for comment.
According to the agreement, the city will abate the property tax on the 10-acre plot for six years beginning in 2017. The first two years will be at 100 percent abatement before stepping down to 80, 60, 40 and 20 percent each subsequent year.
The company is expected to have the new facility complete by December 2017.
"This tax abatement agreement conforms with our existing policy as well as the (amended) policy," City Attorney Marc Winberry said.
The council approved an amended tax abatement policy during the same meeting, putting forth more specific requirements for companies.
While the city's policy mirrored the county's policy, Winberry said the city's policy has one significant difference. The city of Conroe provides incentives to attract hotels and/or convention facilities in the downtown area.
The city's policy allows for the abatement of property tax for up to 10 years depending on the size of the business and the number of jobs it will bring to the community.
The amended policy outlines that 1,560 hours per year qualifies as a full-time position. That number, he said, is three-quarters of the standard set out in the Affordable Care Act that qualifies employees as full-time, making them eligible for benefits through a company. In addition, Winberry said the city set a minimum salary at $30,000 annually per employee and that contract jobs or "lease employees" will not be counted in the number of qualifying jobs.
Hale County commissioners arent quite ready to authorize $347,300 in repairs to a deteriorating bridge across the Runningwater Draw southeast of Plainview. Rather, they want to explore various options including possibly closing County Road Z were it crosses the waterway about a mile downstream from the citys wastewater treatment plant and about three-quarters mile south of US-70.
At Thursdays work session, Precinct 1 Commissioner Harold King told commissioners that sinkholes have developed in the dirt roadbed on the bridge which consists of six metal culverts held in place by concrete embankments.
Except when it rains, the Runningwater Draw is normally a dry creek bed through Plainview. However, the stream is a flowing waterway in that particular area thanks to the discharge of effluent from the city sewage treatment plant. Further downstream, the gray water either percolates back into the underground aquifer or is syphoned off to irrigate farmland adjacent to the draw. The constant flow from the wastewater treatment plant, King said, is eroding away dirt packed around the culverts and causing the metal to corrode.
For now the county has erected barricades on either sides of the bridge and marked the sinkholes with traffic cones. The largest is about 4- or 5-feet in diameter, and you can see the water down below, King said Monday. You dont want to walk too close to the edge, and you sure dont want to drive through there, although there are several tracks where someone moved the barricades and drove across.
King said the damage was first noticed about three weeks ago. As a result, he consulted with Brandt Engineering Group, Ltd., of Amarillo since they have experience with similar situations in the Panhandle. They estimated that repairs will cost $347,300.
The roadway is a mile east of the entrance to the city landfill and a mile west of the Formby-Wheeler Prison Units. It runs along the west edge of the prisons farm property. Commissioners noted Monday that one family lives a short distance south of the bridge and closing the road at that point would force them to drive an extra 2 1/2 miles to reach US 70.
Precinct 4 Commissioner Benny Cantwell thinks that bridge along with three similar ones in his precinct were likely constructed in the 1940s. Theyve just about reached the end of their lifespan, he said.
While no action was taken Monday, commissioners voiced several options. One involves putting sleeves in the existing culverts. That would necessitate diverting the flowing stream around the damaged area and clearing away silt that has reduced the diameter of the culverts by at least half. Another would involve removing the existing culverts and replacing them while rebuilding the bridge.
A third option would be to permanently close County Road Z were it crosses the draw. Before the county does that, commissioners would likely hold public hearing to elicit comments from the public.
Since the bridge crosses a natural waterway, commissioners will ask County Attorney Jim Tirey to check with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the Environmental Protection Agency about possible regulatory issues. Commissioners also will check into possible grants to help fund the repairs and seek participation from the City of Plainview.
King noted that a natural gas line is buried in roadway where it crosses the draw.
Although commissioners took no formal action on bridge repairs, they voted unanimously to insure the countys 16 motorgraders through the Texas Association of Counties. The county has about $3.5 million invested in the maintainers, which have not been insured. Commissioners accepted a $2,500 deductible per occurrence, with a six-month premium of $6,332. A $5,000 deductible would have reduced the premium to $5,990. Cantwell noted that several years ago vandals broke out windows on a nearly new front-end loader, and repairs cost about $5,000.
Fourteen Plainview residents were appointed to two-year terms on the Hale County Historical Commission, through Dec. 31, 2018. They include Melinda Brown, Bill Coleman, Rebekah Crowe, Elva Hipolito, Kim Horne, John McDonough, Barbara McDonough, Angus Ott, J.B. Roberts, Ramona Roberts, Alice Sawayer, Phyllis Wall, Rodney Watson and June Wells.
In other action, commissioners:
--Authorized District Clerk Carla Cannon to move ahead with planning an Employee Recognition Luncheon on Dec. 15.
--Approved hiring Sonny Cabrera as corrections officer at the jail.
--Authorized step increases for corrections officers Reggie Pierce, James Rockwell and Christopher DeLeon for receiving their state jail certification.
--Accepted a report from Sheriff David Mull that the jail passed its state inspection Oct. 26 and is in compliance with minimum jail standards.
--Approved a budget amendment transferring $160,000 from indigent care/health and welfare to environmental safety to begin the Tyre King cleanup.
--Approved current accounts payable of $545,882.19, which includes about $240,000 for the purchase of a motorgrader for Precinct 3 and $153,000 for an excavator for the Tyre King project. The cost of the maintainer is being reduced by $147,000 with a trade-in.
--Accepted the September activity report from Petersburg EMS showing three dispatches resulting in two transfers.
--Accepted the resignation of KrisAnn Schultz from the Hale Center EMS board and appointed Alisha Henlzer as her replacement.
--Accepted an offer of $750 for tax-foreclosed property at 409 W. 14th St., Hale Center. The property is appraised at $1,125. The City of Hale Center is trustee.
--Advanced Benito Garcia, Ollie Liner Center manager, to pay grade 17.6 to bring his current salary in line with what Lynn Barton, the previous manager, was making when he retired in May.
--Received notification from District Attorney Wally Hatch of the planned expenditure of $300 from the asset forfeiture fund for the purchase of a digital camera for use by a local DPS trooper.
--Authorized County Extension Agent Cassidy Peek to travel to Nicaragua later this month to assist efforts to set up a 4-H program in that country.
ExxonMobil will increase the capacity of its Beaumont polyethylene production by 65 percent after construction of an expansion at an existing plant on U.S. 90 west of Beaumont, the oil giant announced today.
The expansion is part of a "multi-billion-dollar expansion under way along the Texas Gulf Coast, including two projects at its Beaumont refinery and at chemical and refining complexes in Baytown and Mont Belvieu.
The Beaumont polyethylene expansion will produce things such as lighter weight food packaging that will help to packaged foods fresher while serving a growing worldwide middle class that will drive demand for goods and services that will consumer higher amounts of chemicals from manufacturers like ExxonMobil, said Cindy Shulman, ExxonMobil vice president for plastics and resins.
"This is the most dynamic time in my 36 years with the company," Shulman told an midday audience at the Event Centre. "ExxonMobil has invested more in Texas than anywhere in the United States."She said in the next 20 years, world population will increase to nine billion from the existing seven billion and an emerging worldwide middle class will grow to five billion from its current two billion.
"We will have to feed more as global living standards move up. So will demand for chemicals and the products we make," she said.
Shulman predicted the chemical industry will grow by 50 percent in the next 20 years.
The investment in the polyethylene plant also will produce an economic impact of $20 billion in the first 13 years after its 2019 completion, plant manager Jason Duncan said.
However, ExxonMobil would not specify how much money would be invested in the plant's expansion other than its 2.2 billion pounds annually would grow by 65 percent to about 3.6 billion pounds.
While the construction will employ 1,400 workers directly, the expansion will result in 40 new permanent employees to its existing 350-person workforce at the U.S. 90 site.
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SOUTHEAST TEXAS TALES
Throngs of Beaumonters swooned and screamed as they swarmed film star Jimmy Stewart and director Frank Capra as the pair exited a plane at the city's airport in March 1947.
The two spent just over three hours in Beaumont promoting a five-day run of "It's a Wonderful Life" at the Jefferson Theatre. Beaumont and four other cities were selected for nationwide premieres with the star and director of the 1946 film.
In celebration of Stewart's and Capra's visit and the 70th anniversary of the Christmas classic, the City of Beaumont and the Beaumont Heritage Society are partnering for a joint event this Friday at the Jefferson.
The Heritage Society Happy Hour begins at 6 p.m. in front of the Jefferson with a red carpet entrance. Attendees are encouraged to come in 1940s period attire.
The city will screen "It's a Wonderful Life" at 7:30 p.m. as part of its ongoing Classic Movie Night series.
In 1947, when Stewart and Capra arrived, Beaumont Mayor Pro Tem James Parker gave the pair keys to the city as the Lamar College band performed "Buffalo Gal Won't You Come Out Tonight," a song from the movie.
Polly Tanner, whose husband, Sam, was the general manager and vice president of the Jefferson Amusement Co., recalled her brief, but memorable exchange with Stewart in a July 1997 Enterprise article that marked the star's passing at age 89.
Sam's position gave Polly the chance to meet many stars - Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, Carol Channing. But it's the phone call with Stewart that Tanner, who died in 2004 at 85, held most dear.
If you go Beaumont Heritage Society Happy Hour
When: 6 p.m. Friday
Where: Jefferson Theatre, 345 Fannin St.
What: Giglio Distributing Co. will have Samuel Adams selections, Winter Lager and Boston Lager.
Cost: Free for members; $10 for non-members
More: beaumontheritage.org Classic Movie Night: "It's a Wonderful Life"
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Where: Where: Jefferson Theatre, 345 Fannin St.
Cost: $5; Popcorn, beer, wine and soft drinks available for purchase inside. See More Collapse
She told an Enterprise reporter that she was invited to a private party held in Stewart's and Capra's honor at the Hotel Beaumont but wasn't able to attend because she was home with her newborn daughter.
When Stewart shook Sam's hand at the reception, he asked about his wife.
Sam replied, "she's at home," prompting the movie star to do something very un-celebrity-like.
He told Sam "he would just call and talk to her."
Polly Tanner knew exactly who it was when Stewart called - his "distinctive country drawl" was unmistakable, she said.
Stewart asked Tanner what she was doing that kept her from attending the event.
"Tending to the baby," she responded.
When Stewart asked for specifics, she admitted she had just washed "out a diaper in the commode."
She said she could hear a roar of laughter at the other end of the telephone line.
At the end of the conversation, the movie star told Tanner to give the baby a kiss and "keep a kiss for yourself."
Southeast Texas Tales is a weekly Enterprise feature that revisits regional history.
More: DiscoverBeaumont.com
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At Congregation Emanu El on Sunday morning, hundreds of slices of wheat bread were laid out neatly on long folding tables. In straight, grid-like rows, they formed a sort of phalanx against hunger.
In the open space behind the Houston synagogue's sanctuary, a line of volunteers slapped slices of Butterball turkey onto every other piece of bread, making sandwiches and slipping them into Ziploc bags. Others tossed peanut butter crackers and cereal bars into brown paper lunch bags. Within a couple of hours, the assembly line had churned out 2,000 lunches for Kids' Meals, a Meals on Wheels program for Houston's hungry preschool-aged children.
Sunday was Mitzvah Day at Emanu El, a day for volunteer work to help the homeless and the hungry, the disadvantaged and the overlooked. Hundreds of volunteers worked on projects with two dozen local agencies, from the Houston Food Bank to Undies for Everyone, a nonprofit that helps supply underwear to Houston students in need.
"Mitzvah" is a Hebrew term that has come to mean "charitable act" or "good deed," and congregations worldwide - Jewish and those of other faiths - make Mitzvah Day an annual opportunity to volunteer and do good works in their communities.
At Congregation Emanu El, Mitzvah Day started nearly 25 years ago.
Jason Plotkin was a kid in the congregation back then; this year, he was one of two Mitzvah Day coordinators. Even his 14-month-old son was taking part in Mitzvah Day, tagging along for a project at a senior care center.
"The great thing about Mitzvah Day is it brings together the different generations," Plotkin said. "There are not many opportunities where, as a family, you can come together and do projects. We really pride ourselves on creating those opportunities."
Cookies for firefighters
Kids chased one another around tables and laughter echoed in the open space behind the synagogue's sanctuary. Down the hallway, classrooms in the congregation's Helfman Religious School were filled with students doing volunteer projects.
Kindergartners made bubble-blowing kits for kids at homeless shelters, because bubble-blowing encourages calming deep breaths to reduce stress. First-graders put together bags full of snacks and toiletries for patients at the VA hospital, and second-graders made cookies for local firefighters.
"I put waaay too many stickers," said second-grader Eli, holding up the gift bag he'd decorated for his cookies. In the spaces between stickers, he'd written a note: "Thank you for protecting us. Keep it up."
Downstairs, a group of women organized piles of donated baby and children's clothing for the House of Tiny Treasures, part of SEARCH Homeless Services. Someone held up a toddlers' T-shirt: "Amy, can I put '24 months' in the same pile as 2T?" Volunteer Amy Kapiloff made a quick judgment and went back to sorting.
"I've got grandchildren in every size, so I can kind of guess what they are," she said.
Help for animals, too
Nearby, a team of volunteers made chew toys and blankets for the animals at Houston's Citizens for Animal Protection shelter. Lea Rabalais tied knots in a piece of fleece to make a soft two-layer blanket.
"They can go into cages for the animals that are coming in," she said. "Maybe the ones that are hurt and want something a little bit soft, or maybe they just need to cuddle a little."
Her cousin brought her to Mitzvah Day and showed her around Sunday morning, Rabalais said.
"She told me, 'They're doing work for dogs at that table.' I said, 'Put me there.' "
The congregation's young professionals delivered hot meals to the homeless downtown through Direct HOPE. The Brotherhood men's group did carpentry work and repairs for the Emergency Aid Coalition. And a group of volunteers went to the Church of Bethel's Family to offer legal advice and job-searching tips. About a dozen men and women showed up to hear Barbara Marcus, who owns a staffing agency, talk about crafting a good resume; she and other professionals then offered one-on-one resume advice.
Oren Hayon, the congregation's senior rabbi, said Mitzvah Day is about building a "culture of service" in the congregation, not just offering an annual day of charity work. "A day of service is always great, but we're trying to create a more systemic change."
NORWALK The Norwalk Parking Authority is poised to roll back starting in January enforcement for on-street parking in SoNo from midnight to 9 p.m.
Motorists had paid $1-an-hour to park and the on-street meters were enforced until 6 p.m. on Washington Street and until 9 p.m. on nearby North Main Street. On July 1, the hourly rate went up to $1.50 an hour and enforcement was extended to midnight unilaterally.
In July, we made it from 6 p.m. to midnight and now we found that we think that was a mistake, said Dick Brescia, Parking Authority chairman. We were looking to create turnover all of that made sense but when the new rates came out on July 1 we were getting a lot of complaints. We were getting them from council members, we were getting them from the mayors office, we were getting them, obviously, from the restaurants. They were urging us to reevaluate what we had done.
The hourly rate wont go back down to $1, but motorists using on-street parking in SoNo will get three free hours back. On Tuesday evening, the Parking Authority will hold a public hearing and afterward vote on returning the enforcement hours to 9 p.m.
The hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 15, at 7 p.m., at the Norwalk Parking Authority offices, 11 North Water St.
Brescia predicted the change would be approved. If so, the 9 p.m. cutoff will take effect Jan. 1.
More Information Changes to SoNo on-street parking enforcement Current: 8 a.m. to midnight Proposed: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Anticipated revenue loss: $88,000 See More Collapse
Changes hit sour note
The Parking Authority approved the higher hourly rate and extended hours in February as part of its rate structure for the fiscal year starting July 1. Brescia said the changes were made after research by consultant Desmond Associates and had two goals: eliminating inconsistencies, such as between Washington and North Main streets, and encouraging parking turnover.
There are a lot of people employed in the SoNo area that were parking continuously and taking up the spaces that could be used by customers, Brescia said.
Three months after the changes took effect, some SoNo merchants, restaurateurs and elected officials have come to a different conclusion about the merits of extending enforcement to midnight.
Thea Tsiranides, co-owner of Salon Etre at 108 Washington St., and Matt Storch, owner and partner at Match SoNo at 98 Washington St., were among those who shared their thoughts with the Parking Authority after the changes took effect in July.
Tsiranides said the enforcement hours should be rolled back to what they had been before July 1.
It should go back to 6 p.m., Tsiranides said. People are coming down to eat dinner, they want to hang out. If they run into friends, if theres music downtown and they want to stay to the end of the night, they dont want to be rushed.
Tsiranides said visitors ended up getting ticketed after enforcement was extended to midnight. She said $25 parking tickets are her customers biggest complaints.
Storch said halting enforcement after 9 p.m. makes good sense for SoNo. He rejected the argument over parking space turnover.
Midnight enforcement just doesnt make sense down there, Storch said. People coming down there early should be rewarded if they find an on-street parking spot and they should be able to stay, hang out and not worrying about getting a ticket.
Larry Pellegrini, owner of Pellegrini Jewelers at 83-85 Washington St., has called for parity in parking rates for SoNo and the Wall Street area. He describes the current midnight enforcement and higher hourly rate in SoNo as ridiculous.
When they raised the rates from dollar to a dollar and a half, I said, thats 50 percent higher. That should not be, said Pellegrini said.
Businesses owners werent the only ones to engage the Parking Authority over the changes. The Common Councils Planning Committee was also drawn into the discussion.
Committee Chairman John Kydes and Councilman Douglas E. Hempstead, who also sits on the committee, went before the Parking Authority in September and proposed rolling back the enforcement hours from midnight to 9 p.m. after hearing merchants concerns.
Theyve organized down there. They had concerns about the new rates and on-street parking hours of operation change, Kydes said. From all the feedback we got we felt that moving the on-street parking (enforcement) back to earlier time was appropriate.
Reevaluation
Brescia said he asked Parking Authority Vice Chairman Mike Harden and staff person Kathryn R. Hebert to study parking data for the SoNo area since the July 1 implementation of the higher hourly rates and extended enforcement hours.
Hebert said Parking Authority members listened to public input and discussed revenues since the July changeover.
There were some complaints with the hours of operation, Hebert said. We didnt receive a lot of complaints about the fee increase. It was mostly about the hours of operation.
The higher hourly rate and extended enforcement hours, as built into the authoritys 2016-17 budget, did boost revenues.
Hebert said the Parking Authority concluded that rolling back enforcement to 9 p.m. would be a reasonable compromise given that most of the increased parking activity occurred between 6 and 9 p.m. Nevertheless, halting enforcement after 9 p.m. will come at a cost.
The projected loss of revenue for the next six months it will be implemented the latter six months of the fiscal year is $88,000, Hebert said. But that will be covered through increased estimated revenues from the first part of the fiscal year. Theres some saving related to enforcement as well because of those three hours per night.
rkoch@hearstmediact.com
A woman was allegedly robbed at gunpoint and sexually assaulted in Port Arthur's north side early Saturday morning, according to a press release from the Port Arthur Police Department.
Police said the male suspect was wearing a blue bandana over his face when he attacked the victim at 3600 Normandy.
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Writing messages of love and support, hundreds of people posted their thoughts on sticky notes at San Francisco BART stations on Monday - the latest action aimed to sooth emotionally bruised Bay Area residents following Donald Trumps election last week.
Organizers set up the community art installations each dubbed a Wall of Empathy as places for people to share their post-election feelings. The largest was at the 16th Street BART station in the Mission District.
People are feeling a lot of grief and fear, said 25-year-old Muriel MacDonald who helped organize the event after seeing a similar wall in New York. We need to process that feeling and do the difficult work ahead of us.
The 16th Street Wall of Empathy - there were smaller walls at the Montgomery and 24th Street BART stations - was the latest Bay Area response to Tuesdays election in which residents have turned out to voiced their opposition to the president-elect.
During the campaign, Trump at times targeted minorities with harsh rhetoric, leaving a deeply divided nation. As his language has shifted to one of unity after what many saw as a surprising victory, those who opposed him are trying to process what a Trump presidency might mean.
We are so devastated now, Teresa Mejia, 60, said after writing Join a community organization and Take care of yourself on the wall.
Mejia works at the Womens Building in San Francisco and has been deeply disturbed when thinking about how a Trump presidency might affect the low-income families shes close with.
Im very depressed, but Im doing what I can to process this, she said. Yesterday, I went to a non-denominational church to be with spirits and then went to Lake Merritt for a demonstration.
San Francisco resident Andre Pautin, 21, spotted the wall as he came up the escalator at the 16th Street Station on Monday morning.
Its good to see something like this, he said. I just think that there are a whole bunch of emotional people who are confused and scared. Thats leading to a lot of negativity.
While catharsis is one part of the wall, MacDonald said its also a way to get people to interact in person, rather than relying on social media as their only outlet for frustrations.
The in-person action gets people out of the Facebook suck, she said. Its not that different. Were posting on a wall, but were having face-to-face conversations.
Ultimately, MacDonald hopes the anti-Trump voices will begin to organize and lend time and other support toward organizations that may be decimated under the new president.
This is a start, she said, not the end.
Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EvanSernoffsky
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TUSCOLA COUNTY - Shock waves of animosity fueled by the presidential election this month are being felt throughout the country even in rural Tuscola County.
Although there has been no riots in the county like other areas, an ethnic intimidation case is being investigated by Tuscola County Sheriff's Deputy Steve Roland. The investigation stems from an incident discovered Saturday morning at a home on Smith Road in Koylton Township, where a person of Mexican descent lives.
When people living there awoke Saturday morning, they found many boxes taped together blocking their driveway like a wall and with graffiti written on the boxes.
"The wording was about Donald Trump taking back America and Mexicans suck. They also found a doll made of balloons hanging nearby and vulgar graffiti spray painted on their driveway," explained Tuscola County Sheriff Elect Glen Skrent in a press release
According to U.S. Census Bureau statistics of Tuscola County's roughly 53,777 population, about 3.4 percent is Hispanic or Latino. Koylton's population is 1,585.
Koylton Township boarders Sanilac and Lapeer counties.
The incident in southern Tuscola County is being taken seriously.
"This is a crime," Skrent said. "This sort of thing will not be tolerated."
If anyone has any information about this incident call Roland at 989-673-8161, Ext. 4056.""
Since it was announced last week Trump secured the majority of Electoral College votes to become president, there have been numerous reports of violence throughout the country in connection to his statements about minorities and women.
The last major investigation of a hate crime in Tuscola County was in the fall of 2014 when a sign saying "KKK (Ku Klux Klan) picnic" painted on it in orange letters was placed on an open piece of property along Shay Lake and Harden roads, in Dayton Township, which is next-door to Koylton.
Along with the words on the sign where it was placed was also an issue that prompted an ethnic intimidation investigation at that time. The Shay Lake area was developed in the 1960s to early 1970s by African-Americans primarily from Detroit as a summer getaway area.
The KKK picnic statement referenced the era when white supremacist group did lynchings.
That case was never solved despite an intensive investigation.
China's CNBM has completed the registration of ownership rights to the 10 largest solar power plants in Ukraine with a total capacity of 267 MW, Director General of China's CNBM New Energy Engineering Co., Ltd. Yongzhi Chen has said in an interview with Interfax-Ukraine.
Commenting on the recent news about the acquisition of Neptun Solar incorporated into Activ Solar, he said that this was the last deal to register ownership rights to 10 solar power plants received for debts, while ownership rights to the rest of nine plants were registered earlier.
"In general, we have invested around $1 billion of investment and financing, including commodity loans. Over EUR 168 million were converted into capital of 10 solar power plants. The company received control over the said assets in exchange of paying unrecoverable and unsecured debt under transactions to supply equipment," Chen said.
He said that the Chinese company has been operating on the Ukrainian energy market since 2011. In 2012-2013 a large debt appeared, and the problem was settled only in 2014 when the plants were transferred to ownership as payment of the debt.
Chen said that CNBM received permits from all Chinese and Ukrainian regulators, including Ukraine's Antimonopoly Committee, and information that the company owns Ukrainian companies is available in open registers.
He said that CNBM is fulfilling all liabilities of the Ukrainian companies to Ukrainian banks, including Oschadbank.
As for the tariff that is considered set too high by many lawmakers and market players, he said that this tariff guaranteed the acceptable payback period with the prices of equipment at the moment of building the plants.
"In 2011-2012 the cash cost of equipment was three times more than now. It is incorrect to assess the cash cost that was five years ago, taking into account the current market price," Chen said.
Commenting on information that other countries eventually reduced feed-in tariffs, he said that there investors knew about the reduction of tariffs in advance and they could plan their operations.
"On the other hand, the tariffs were not reduced for the finished facilities," he added.
Chen said that allegations of some politicians that CNBM is linked to Ukrainian oligarchs, in particular, fugitive ex-head of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Andriy Kliuyev, is an attempt to deceive regulators and society and explain the discriminative steps against the company by this.
Some 70-75% of Ukrainian goods were exported under indirect contracts in January through September 2016. These contracts help to remove profit from the country, Head of the Office of Large Taxpayers of the State Fiscal Service of Ukraine Yevhen Bambizov has said.
"If we take the entire imports for the nine months, it totals some UAH 360 billion and 46% of imports contracts are indirect. As for exports, some 70-75% of goods out of UAH 400 billion are exported under indirect contracts. This is three fourths," the official said.
He said that closing loss from these transactions is worth hundreds of millions of hryvnias.
"We see the largest activities when indirect contracts are signed. It is when a contract is signed with one company registered, for example, in Switzerland, goods are delivered to the company with the smallest markup and then the Swiss resident resells the goods with a larger markup. Main profit remains in Switzerland," Bambizov said.
He recalled that some countries have the official offshore status under government resolutions. There are countries that are not offshore zones, but they have lower rates or more flexible taxation system: the leader in the number of registered ownership rights in the world is Switzerland (60%).
He said that the problem could be solved thanks to amendments to legislation, in particular, by the introduction of restrictions on operations of Ukrainian companies with offshore companies or companies that are registered in jurisdictions with lower taxes.
He said that the introduction of tax on cooperation with offshore companies is possible.
The Office of Large Taxpayers has 2,200 taxpayers who replenish the general fund of Ukraine's national budget by 60%.
Pre-K education has long been seen as a potential silver bullet to help at-risk children excel in school. But new research is prompting second thoughts about its effectiveness for low-income kids.
In a recent policy briefing describing statewide pre-K programs in Tennessee, Ron Haskins of the Brookings Institution and Jeanne Brooks-Gunn of the Annie E. Casey Foundation report that by third grade, children who attended pre-K had worse attitudes toward school and poorer work habits than children who didnt.
About 3,000 children were randomly assigned either to attend a pre-K classroom or to not participate, then data on both groups subsequent academic performance were taken from a state database.
The short-term impacts of the program, reported in 2013, looked good. Researchers found that children who attended preschool performed better than those who didnt on end-of-year achievement tests and got higher ratings from their teachers when kindergarten began. Plus, teachers said that the pre-K children were better prepared for school, had better work skills, and were more positive about school (this is similar to results in other studies of pre-K programs).
However, the 2015 data, which included results of student performance into the third grade, showed that the achievement-test advantage for children who attended the pre-K program had disappeared by the end of kindergarten (also similar to results in other studies).
Worse, by the end of first grade, their teachers rated pre-K program children as weaker in their work skills and less prepared for and more negative about school. Strikingly: At the end of both second grade and third grade, children who hadnt participated in the program performed better on academic tests than children who had.
No one knows why, but factors could include that the activities the children experienced were not age-appropriate to their developmental needs -- i.e. heavily dependent on structured direct instruction rather than on student-interest-based play (weve all heard the horror stories about kindergarteners made to fill out worksheets, so this is not far-fetched). Or that students who had initially been ahead of peers got bored in waiting for them to catch up as they progressed through grades 2 and 3.
Maybe for the youngsters in question, two extra years of high-stakes education and testing cast school as a drag to be endured, rather than experienced happily.
Obviously, more studies are needed to see what went "wrong" with the pre-K intervention, but this misses the forest for the trees.
Basically, children who need very early academic interventions tend to not have highly educated parents possessing expendable income with which to single-mindedly cultivate their children for an Ivy League degree from the moment of conception.
The word gap between what low-income and more-affluent 3-year-olds have heard stands at a mind-boggling 30 million words. And, however well-intentioned, full-time, high-quality pre-K is going to eventually fall short in the context of a life without home caregivers who know to talk to their babies, engage in questioning dialogue with their toddlers and read to early-grade kids every day.
Ive taught first-graders and high school students and, within their groups, the struggling and the high achievers share similar qualities.
The academically successful students are much like other high performers throughout history: They exhibit self-control, have great amounts of curiosity and can focus on interests outside their own selves for sustained periods of time.
The students who struggle are much like most of the adults in todays society: They have their faces glued to electronic devices and their headphones keep them closed off from their surrounding environments. They are curious only about whatever distraction can bring them pleasure for a few fleeting moments, and their interests revolve around how they are perceived by others, especially on social media.
These students learn such behaviors in the home and extra pre-K isnt going to make much of a difference.
How can we expect children who, even as babies, are becoming inured to the dopamine-release of instant digital gratification, to develop the patience and curiosity necessary to succeed academically? And how can we ever hope to expect it of children who grow up in the chaotic, loud and stressful environments that typify poverty?
Pre-K interventions feel good, but what at-risk children really need are anti-poverty programs, parenting classes for their moms and dads, and a society that understands that the digital world is as much a challenge as it is an opportunity.
Ukraine's An-225-Mriya heavy transport aircraft is ready to fly again after repairs.
The Antonov State Enterprise on November 10 said the aircraft caught on fire at Lepipzig airport (Germany) for 15 or 16 seconds.
The engines were inspected and repairmen replaced a leaky valve. The aircraft and engines were not damaged.
"It is permitted to further exploit the An-225 aircraft. It is ready for new flights," Antonov's Facebook page said.
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The body of a male Texas State student was found on the San Marcos campus early this morning, officials said.
Matt Flores, university spokesman, said the body was found inside the Academic Services Building North in a stairwell around 7:20 a.m. Monday. It appears to be a suicide, he said. Students are being offered counseling services in light of the incident, he said.
A jury was picked Monday for a trial for a former Bexar County jail guard accused of beating up an inmate, after prosecutors dropped their attempt for now to add allegations that the guard showed a pattern of repeated mistreatment of prisoners.
Avery Lemarcus Lawrence, 32, is charged with two counts of official oppression and a charge of violation of civil rights all misdemeanors related to an incident in which he allegedly punched and kicked inmate John Garcia on July 13, 2014. Lawrences lawyers, Marylin Bradley and Robert Porter, are expected to argue that Lawrence used allowable force to subdue an unruly inmate.
Assistant District Attorneys Eddie Flores and Chris DeMartino had filed court papers on Nov. 1 saying they intended to introduce 16 extraneous offenses conduct for which Lawrence was not charged. They included allegations that he lied in incident reports, left out important facts or did not follow proper procedures in matters where he had pushed, punched, kicked, stomped on inmates, or allowed them to be beaten by fellow prisoners.
In at least two cases, inmates were left with serious cuts one requiring stitches and another that resulted in the inmate having repeated seizures, according to the prosecutors court filings.
The paperwork also alleges Lawrence displayed the pattern of brutality while working a side job providing security for Whataburger.
Lawrences lawyers argued to State District Judge Melisa Skinner that allowing the extraneous offenses to come in was prejudicial to their client and that the allegations would not need to be proven beyond reasonable doubt.
The state does not anticipate doing that (introducing extraneous conduct), subject to what the defense does, Flores told the judge.
Skinner said the allegations would not be part of the trial unless the defense opens the door.
The documents show that before serving at the adult jail, Lawrence supervised juvenile wards. During a performance review in July 2012, his reviewer wrote that Lawrence appears a bit aggressive when dealing with residents andmust be mindful ofactions and in control (of) demeanor at all times.
At times, Lawrence escalated the situations into physical confrontations or used unjustified excessive force, the court paperwork said.
In September 2013, for instance, in his report on how three inmates beat inmate Juan Martinez, Lawrence intentionally omitted an important fact, that he opened a cell door, giving the other prisoners access to Martinez, the court records said. The incident left Lawrence facing a proposed 30-day suspension, but it was reduced to six days after he appealed, documents said.
On July 12, 2014, a day before the incident in which he is facing trial, Lawrence allegedly punched inmate Eric Palacios in the back of the head, took him down and handcuffed him, but failed to document that incident in a report, the court papers said.
On Jan. 15, 2015, the Bexar County Sheriffs Office fired Lawrence because he was found to have used unjustified excessive force against inmates Jonathan Perez and John Corey Garcia, the prosecutions court paperwork said.
Also in June 2012, according to the court papers, Lawrence said in his application to the sheriffs office that he had an associates degree in criminal justice from Palo Alto College, though investigators found that his transcripts listed his major as computer information systems and do not list any criminal justice courses.
Opening arguments are scheduled for Tuesday morning. The trial is expected to last about a week.
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The family of a 32-year-old father who was hit and killed on Loop 410 in September filed a wrongful death lawsuit Monday against the teen driver who hit him.
The lawsuit alleges that the driver, Jewell Hendrickson, was texting as she drove north on Loop 410 when she crossed into the opposite lane of traffic and hit Robert Bobby Cornish. His family also sued his employer.
Cornish was attending to his work trailer, which was allegedly malfunctioning, when he was pinned between his trailer and Hendricksons car. He was transferred to San Antonio Military Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
My heart broke on September 22nd and it will never be the same, Cornishs mother Carla Cornish said Monday.
Hendrickson could not immediately be reached for comment Monday.
The lawsuit also alleges that Cornishs employer, Sageleaf Custom Homes, had a history of safety violations involving its trailers and did not provide Cornish with a working truck or trailer, contributing to his death.
When contacted Monday afternoon, Chris Condon, owner at Sageleaf Custom Homes, said he did not want to comment on the lawsuit.
The lawsuit seeks $1 million from the defendants and aims to send a message that distracted driving and texting is unacceptable.
The lawsuit is not about money, said Tom Crosley, the attorney representing the family pro bono. The purpose of the lawsuit is to try to make a difference and send a message on this important public safety issue.
Police said at the time of the crash that it was unclear why Hendrickson, 18, lost control of her vehicle or if she would face criminal charges.
The city of San Antonio bans driving while texting though there is no statewide law. A legislator, in his fourth attempt to change the law, is filing a bill today to make it illegal statewide.
Crosley said texting while driving represents one of the biggest threats to motorists everywhere.
Distracted driving is the new DWI, he said. Driving while texting represents an eightfold increase in wrecks.
Cornish and his wife Sarah Blake Cornish have two young daughters, and she is four months pregnant with their third child, who will be named for his father.
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A Converse man who used his AR-15 rifle to detain four men he thought were going to burglarize his neighbors home last month now finds himself on the wrong side of the law.
Coty Bob McDonnell, 31, made his initial appearance Monday on a charge of deadly conduct, a misdemeanor, but the case was reset for next month.
Converse police arrested McDonnell on the night of Oct. 22 or early Oct. 23 after he detained the men, believing they were burglars, according to an account provided by his neighbor, Doug Stearns, and his lawyer, Daniel De La Garza.
Charging him might have a chilling effect on Texans who want to protect their property, they argued. McDonnell himself declined comment, citing the pending case.
Texas law gives some leeway to persons who believe they have been asked to protect the property of a third party, allowing the use of deadly force to prevent theft or criminal mischief, but the circumstances of McDonnells case differed considerably when described by police and his neighbor.
Converse police say McDonnell went too far when he chased the four down the street and blocked their way out with his vehicle. The four were charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, but not burglary. They told officers they were on their way to a party, according to a police report.
These kids just stopped in the roadway to change drivers, said Assistant Chief Rex Rheiner. He pursued them, and when he pursued them down the road is when he left the realm of protection of property.
He pointed the weapon at them, Rheiner added. He was out there acting as a police officer, when he has no police powers.
Stearns, 51, an Air Force retiree, said he had asked McDonnell to keep an eye on his house while he was out of town and gave him a key. Their subdivision has had a rash of burglaries and recently saw a Converse school vandalized, he said. McDonnell even mowed his lawn and took care of his cat, Stearns said.
Stearns said McDonnell told him he had noticed a car coming down the street with its lights off and when it stopped near Stearns home, three men got out and approached or entered Stearns driveway. McDonnell grabbed his rifle and approached them and, They said, Oh (expletive), theres somebody here, Stearns said.
McDonnell prevented the group from leaving in the car they arrived in, but had put away his weapon by the time police arrived, according to Stearns.
He called the prosecution a waste of time and money.
I think its ridiculous, Stearns said. We should be able to protect our homes and do so in a way that doesnt cause a loss of life.
He did what he thought was best, Stearns added. I will continue to support and defend my friend.
McDonnells attorney said his client should not have been arrested.
We celebrate gun rights here in Texas and I dont know why they would do that to him, De La Garza said. It now makes me reluctant to protect my property. We want them to dismiss the case and give him back his gun.
Rheiner said there was no evidence the men had committed burglary or were trying to. All but one were adults, the youngest was 17, he said.
Besides deadly conduct, Converse police also initially charged McDonnell with unlawful restraint, but that charge does not appear on the current charging documents filed by the Bexar County District Attorneys Office.
McDonnell has prior arrests resulting in charges of unlawful carrying of a weapon, in Burnet and Horseshoe Bay. He pleaded guilty in the Burnet case in 2008, and was convicted in Llano County on the Horseshoe Bay case, according to online court summaries.
County Court No. 9 Judge Wayne Shelton reset the case for a pretrial conference on Dec. 15.
Its just astounding to me that this was even continued, Stearns said. If someone is coming toward your house in the middle of the night, are you going to stop and ask them if theyre 18? You dont know what youre up against.
gcontreras@express-news.net
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Susan Gray, a realtor, and Haley Skinner, a YMCA employee, both came to the Alamo Beer Company on Sunday separately, but on the same mission.
Anything where you can drink beer and have it go to a good cause is good enough for me, said Skinner, an empty Alamo beer glass in her hand. Gray nodded vigorously across from her. They had come alone, but ended up finding each other and becoming friends.
People will think Im like your mom. But Im the cool mom, joked Gray.
For the second year in a row, University of Houstons Conrad N. Hilton College in San Antonio hosted a cook-off at Alamo Beer. Nine teams representing different food companies in San Antonio competed for the best one-pot recipe. More than $3,700 dollars were raised just from tickets sold before the event, all of which goes directly toward scholarships for the college students, many of whom are Latino, first generation, or military-connected.
The college started in San Antonio at St. Philips College campus in 2014, said Nathan Jarvis, a professor at Hilton College and coordinator for the event. It was the first San Antonio college to offer a bachelor of science degree in hotel and restaurant management. In 2015, it moved to its own campus near the Alamodome and hosted its first cook-off.
In addition to fundraising, the cook-off also helps spread awareness about the college, which officials said started with only 20 to 25 students in 2014.
This is exactly what we do. Were a culinary and hospitality college so it made sense to do an event to show off the skills our students have and our amazing local restaurants, said Lisa Hernandez, assistant dean at the college and last years coordinator for the cook-off. The event was put on by student volunteers and many of the volunteer restaurants also help train those students.
We were told this was fertile grounds for hospitality, but we were invited by the San Antonio industry, not the community. So now its our job to invite the community to partake in this field, Hernandez said.
Albert Bafford, the owner and head chef of Take 5 Pasta was absolutely floored to discover that his three-month-old business run out of a food truck had won first place.
It was for his Italian-Creole gumbo fusion dish, which took the traditional gumbo recipe and replaced chicken broth with a creamy, homemade marinara and rice for homemade pasta. As an Italian chef, he said he had the idea to do a Louisiana fusion after moving to Texas from California and hearing what Texans had to say about gumbo.
As soon as everybody told me to stay away from gumbo, I said I have to do it! Thats just who I am, said Bafford, wearing a mardi gras bead necklace and a cap with two party streamers coming out of it.
This was the first competition his truck has entered, and his first win.
Were trying to get out in the community. So obviously this is a great step, it lets people know we actually cook, he said. Some people say Oh how good can this Italian food be, its in a food truck? But were the same as any restaurant, the only difference is were on wheels.
sfosterfrau@express-news.net
AUSTIN The parents of David Molak, a 16-year-old who killed himself after being harassed online, came to the Texas Capitol on Monday to promote a bill in his memory to try to give more protection to victims of bullying.
There are so many children that are suffering silently Davids Law is to protect those kids, said Davids father, Matt Molak, speaking from behind a lectern with his sons photograph on it.
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Vandals who placed a tree limb, a boulder and other lumber pieces in a pipeline caused a sewer to overflow on the North Side Sunday, officials said.
San Antonio Water System crews responded to the overflow around 5 p.m., which occurred west of Blanco Road between Bitters Road and Deer Crest Drive, according to a SAWS news release. SAWS officials estimated that greater than 100,000 gallons of domestic wastewater was spilled.
"Crews are onsite today continuing to clean up," said Anne Hayden, SAWS spokeswoman, adding the spill had been stopped but that the agency dose not have an exact number of gallons spilled.
RELATED: Someone in San Antonio left their crutch in a sewer, according to SAWS
The spill amount has exceeded the requirement for public notice, the release said.
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Panther Springs Creek could potentially be affected by the spill, the news release said.
kbradshaw@express-news.net
Twitter: @kbrad5
SAN ANTONIO A 27-year-old woman was killed Sunday morning in a head-on collision with a suspected drunken driver who was traveling the wrong way on U.S. Highway 281 near the Pearl, according to police.
Lauren E. Patrick died at the scene of the crash, which occurred at about 5:23 a.m. Sunday in the 2800 block of U.S. Highway 281 near St. Marys Street, according to a preliminary police report.
AN ANTONIO A man died Monday afternoon after a drive-by shooting that started when an individual and a suspect exchanged "stink eye," said San Antonio Police Department Chief William McManus.
A group of four people exchanged "looks that neither side appreciated" at a West Side gas station shortly after 2 p.m., McManus said.
A group of professionals not representing government officials intend to draw up a list of possible investment projects in Ukraine worth $150 billion. The projects could be implemented in Ukraine in coming 15-20 years, former head of the Presidential Administration and Head of the National Investment Council Borys Lozhkin has said.
"There are no [large investment] projects in the country. Ministries and state-run companies even cannot give projects worth $10 billion, while we need $150 billion for next 15 or 20 years. These figures are realistic," he said at the third Orchestrators of Change Directors forum that took place in Kyiv on November 10.
He said that one of the largest international funds with assets of over $500 billion under management has expressed its readiness to invest $1-3 billion in Ukraine. The fund asked to present projects worth $20 billion to select some. It was found out that the country does not have these projects.
Lozhkin said that he ordered a group of 'non-government' people to prepare the list of projects in the sectors, including revised projects proposed by ministries.
He said that the Ukrainian energy sector could spend $50-70 billion of investment in coming 20 years, and infrastructure and agriculture - $30-40 billion each.
He said that these are projects worth over $100 million and better if they were $300-500 million, as efforts spent on the projects worth $5 billion or $100 million are the same.
Lozhkin said that foreign direct investment (FDI) is the main hope for Ukraine's exploding growth.
"$1 billion of FDI is around 1% of GDP growth. If they have them worth $6-8 billion, it would be 6-8% of GDP growth and a multiplier we can reach 10% of growth a year. Then the values would change quicker," he said.
MHP Board Chairman Yuriy Kosiuk said that Ukraine today is not ready for large investments, as there is a large risk of losing it. The process should be gradual, he said.
"One cannot help a fool," he said.
Lozhkin said that one can give $500 million to such businessmen as Kosiuk and President of Galnaftogaz Concern Vitaliy Antonov who also participated in the discussion. However, Kosiuk said that they could suffer from country risks too.
Milkiland, a dairy group with assets in Ukraine, Russia and Poland, saw EUR 24.81 million of net loss in January-September 2016 and this was 35% down year-over-year.
According to a group's report on the Warsaw Stock Exchange (WSE), revenue fell by 23%, to EUR 112.94 million triggered by devaluation of the hryvnia and Russian ruble.
Gross profit fell by 27%, to EUR 16.7 million due to higher affective raw milk prices. earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) decreased by 45%, to EUR 5.3 million.
Operating loss totaled EUR 2.4 million (EUR 7.73 million a year ago).
Milkiland concentrated efforts on offsetting the negative effect of Russian ban by expansion in the Groups existing markets and acceleration of local cheese production in Russia as well as by finding new export markets.
Raw milk prices growth in Russia and Ukraine is still not fully compensated by increased prices for finished dairy, further price increase in line with the general market trends to be implemented by the group to restore profitability margins.
Ukraines dairy products consumption in the nine month of 2016 in comparison with the same period of 2015 decreased 0.5% year-over-year in volume terms. Russian market is forecasted to show slightly weaker dynamics of 2-3% year-over-year decline in dairy products consumption in 2016.
The group expanded its presence on new export markets in Q3 2016, such as Israel, Egypt, Morocco, delivering cheese, butter and SMP to those countries.
Cheese & butter segment contributed approximately 34% to the groups total revenue. The segment revenue dropped by c.26% to EUR 37.9 million jeopardized by the restrictions imposed by the Russian authorities on dairy imports from a number of countries, including Ukraine and the EU.
The lost export volumes were still not fully compensated by sales growth in the countries of the groups operation. However, Milkiland managed to deliver solid volume growth in Ukraine, as well as increased local cheese output and sales in Russia.
Whole-milk dairy remained the largest segment in terms of revenue providing for 55%. Its revenues declined by 21% to EUR 62.1 million. In Ingredients and other products segment, revenue decreased by 20% to EUR 12.9 million mainly due to decline in SMP sales by 27% year-over-year.
The polls were wrong. The media was wrong. And I was wrong.
American voters or at least, half of them wanted something different than what many of us expected theyd want. A man with the endorsements of zero national newspapers and zero living presidents, who lost all three debates, and who 61 percent of exit-poll respondents said was unqualified to be president, has won the presidency.
One reason we got things wrong is that we assumed most Americans had come around to realizing just how dangerous Donald Trump and his bad ideas were. After all, hadnt we convinced our audiences of this many times over? Like many other elites, Ive spent the better part of the past 17 months warning the public about Trumps bigotry, misogyny, magical thinking and authoritarian impulses.
Unfortunately, also like many other elites, I have since learned that those I wanted most to heed these warnings did not. And in an increasingly siloed media environment, reaching let alone persuading those undisposed to listen to and agree with us appears increasingly impossible.
As a writer, I have always believed in the power of words. This election, and the parallel media echo chambers that have encased it, have shaken that belief. We writers can preach to the choir, but our chances of converting anyone outside our house of worship have narrowed.
Fortunately, I retain faith in another powerful tool: democracy. By which I mean democracy as defined by H.L. Mencken: the theory that the common people know what they want, and deserve to get it good and hard.
Maybe the only way for Americans to really, truly understand how toxic, wrong-headed and futile Trumps policies are is to let him provide proof of concept.
That is, to give us Trumpism, good and hard.
Maybe the only way to prove that Trump cant bring back manufacturing jobs, or coal jobs, or other jobs displaced by technology and productivity gains, is to let him try to do so through his ill-advised tariffs.
Yes, this may spark a trade war. Yes, it may lead to the losses of millions of jobs. But maybe thats what Americans require in order to believe such things would happen, since they clearly dont trust experts projections on such matters.
Likewise, maybe the only way for Americans to recognize that immigrants inject our economy with vitality and innovation, and help keep Medicare solvent, is to let Trump wall them out, and then see what happens to our workforce and entitlements.
Speaking of walls, maybe the only way for Americans to realize how much magical thinking infuses Trumps promises is to let him try and fail to convince Mexico to pay for his big, beautiful wall.
And also to let him try and fail to keep sick Americans from dying on the streets and prevent health-care prices from spiraling out of control, while simultaneously shredding Obamacares coverage and cost provisions. Let him twist in the wind as he struggles to define the vague something terrific that will replace the Affordable Care Act.
With Republicans dominating both houses of Congress, Trump should have little trouble transforming his many harebrained, math-challenged policy schemes into law, assuming hes ever able to commit them to paper. With time, his economically anxious followers will realize that even after the swamp is drained and the bums thrown out, tough-talking Trump is still unable to improve their economic standing.
To borrow from Lin-Manuel Mirandas Hamilton: Winning was easy, old man. Governing is harder.
To be sure, there are flaws in this plan.
If his policies turn out to be a bust, he may blame the results on President Obama. Or other political enemies, or distrusted ethnic groups.
Most disturbing, while the public is busy formulating its own first-person, expert-free verdict on his policy experiments, those experiments could do a lot of harm.
So I guess that leaves me back where I started: wielding my almighty pen, hoping someone across the divide reads my scribblings, trying to read more carefully theirs, and urging Trump to do better, even if I know hes not really listening. Maybe Ill just be screaming into the void. But hopefully, on occasion, the void will scream back.
crampell@washpost.com
Thirty years ago, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed Nov. 15 National Philanthropy Day to recognize and celebrate giving, volunteering and community engagement.
Texas Capital Bank is honored to be a finalist in San Antonios inaugural Corporate Philanthropy Awards on Thursday. We share this honor with our employees and our customers, who embrace the culture of giving with their personal time and charitable donations. The entrepreneurial spirit that created Texas Capital Bank drives us and our customers. We see this spirit of giving in nonprofit leaders identifying and meeting critical needs in our community.
According to the Annual Report on Philanthropy for the Year of 2014, 72 percent of charitable contributions come from individual donors. The remainder comes from foundations, bequests and corporations. Another measure of philanthropy is personal time. The 2015 value of volunteer time has been established by the coalition Independent Sector at $23.56 per hour, which has a huge impact on charitable organizations with limited staffs and small operating budgets.
Texas Capital Bank employees enjoy volunteering with Habitat for Humanity by landscaping the yards of newly completed homes and celebrating with families as they receive the keys to their new homes.
At Texas Capital Bank, giving back is a core part of our mission, which includes adopting Booker T. Washington Elementary on the East Side, where we donated much-needed technology equipment for teachers and uniforms for children.
This partnership with our employees includes an annual back-to-school drive for backpacks filled with supplies. During the holidays, our employees hold a Christmas gift drive for the elementary students, who attend after-school programs at Bridge Builders, a neighborhood nonprofit, where they learn to use computers and receive help with their homework.
We are proud to have 100 percent participation by our employees as a Pacesetter Company in United Ways workplace giving campaigns for two consecutive years, and especially proud of being named one of the Top Workplaces in San Antonio by the Express-News, also for two consecutive years.
We salute business leaders for uniting with community leaders in making San Antonio a caring community. The spirit of giving is evident across San Antonio, with year-round community involvement by businesses contributing both financial resources and employees who volunteer and serve on nonprofit boards.
The annual Big Give offers area nonprofits online visibility, providing an opportunity for generous community-minded citizens to make a difference with financial contributions.
As the holidays approach, generosity abounds. But the long-term impact continues long after the donation or volunteer service. We are all making an impact by contributing our time, talent and treasure. Make philanthropy a year-round habit, because together, we are building a stronger community, and a strong community is our best investment.
Shaun Kennedy is chairman of Texas Capital Bank and 2018 chairman-elect of the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce.
U.S. consumers cant seem to catch a break.
Last month, a panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia ruled the structure of the powerful Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, created in 2010 in response to the nations economic crisis, was unconstitutional.
The court found that the enabling legislation gave the agencys director more unilateral authority than any other officer in any other office in any of the three branches of the U.S. government, other than the president.
The quick fix would be to alter the agencys structure and allow the president to fire the director at will. Under the present setup, the head of the organization is appointed by the president for a five-year term, must be confirmed by the Senate and can only be removed for cause.
Those whose lives have been adversely affected by the agency, however, are lobbying hard to have it transformed into a commission whose bipartisan membership would be appointed by the Senate.
A quick resolution is unlikely and the case appears headed before the U.S. Supreme Court.
The agency has done well by American consumers, and it needs to be allowed to continue its work. For the last six years, it has has been a champion for the little guy, but it has stepped on some big toes.
In September, the agency fined Wells Fargo Bank $100 million for secretly opening unauthorized deposit and credit card accounts for its bank customers. That same month, it fined TitleMax parent company MX Finance LLC $9 million for luring customers into more costly loans.
The case that brought the agency before the D.C. appellate court was over a $109 million fine the agency imposed on PHH, a New Jersey-based mortgage lender for allegedly accepting kickbacks from mortgage lenders.
In its short existence, the bureaus many accomplishments include creation of a website for consumers to lodge complaints, and making information about mortgages, students and auto loans more user-friendly.
More important, it has actively worked on those consumer complaints and brought billions of dollars in relief to consumers who alleged problems with their credit card companies. It has helped bank customers fight fees they felt were charged in error and helped homeowners battle mortgage companies against wrongful foreclosures.
The agencys scrutiny of questionable financial aid programs in the for-profit college industry is credited with the shuttering of many of those businesses in recent months.
Prior to the creation of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, oversight of mortgage lending, credit cards and student loans was spread over several federal agencies, none of which were doing a very good job.
Those with special interests who would best be served if it were dismantled should not be allowed to gut it.
Consumers need a watchdog on their side.
Bob Luckey / Bob Luckey
GREENWICH A Bronx man is accused of trying to steal a rental car with a fraudulent ID and credit card.
Miguel Morales, 41, of Washington Avenue, the Bronx, was charged with nine criminal counts in connection with an effort to rent a car from Enterprise-Rent-A Car on Edgewood Avenue Friday morning.
National Nuclear Generating Company Energoatom is preparing for exports of electricity to Belarus, Energoatom President Yuriy Nedashkovsky said in Kyiv last week.
"We are working on exports of electricity [to Belarus]. This is a framework agreement. It was approved by Belarus and Ukraine. I signed it. Of course, Ukrenergo, Energomarket and the whole range of participants are to sign it," he said.
Nedashkovsky added that a mechanism for bringing the price of Ukrainian electricity to the competitive level should be introduced before starting exports of electricity.
"There are many things to do for our electricity be competitive on the Belarusian market. For purchase of electricity from Energomarket without grant certificates decisions of the regulator and government are required," he said.
Ferrexpo plc, whose main assets are Ukrainian iron ore producers Poltava and Yerystove mining and processing plants, reduced commercial iron ore pellet production 4.6% year-on-year in January-October 2016 to 9.258 million tonnes, the company has told Interfax-Ukraine.
Iron ore concentrate production fell 1.9% to 11.721 million tonnes.
Ferrexpo produced 930,000 tonnes of pellets and 1.144 million tonnes of concentrate in October alone.
Pellet output grew 5.6% in 2015 to 11.67 million tonnes.
The London-listed Ferrexpo plc owns 100% of Ferrexpo AG, which owns 97.43% of Poltava Mining and 100% of Yerystove Mining. It also owns 99.9% of Belanovo Mining, which is at the design stage.
Ferrexpo's main consumers are steelmakers in Austria, Serbia, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Germany and other European countries, as well as China, India, Japan, Taiwan and South Korea.
Lambert: A round-up of Brexit options, hard and soft. Wouldnt the Brits have an easier time of it if they wrote their Constitution down?
By Silvia Merler, an Italian citizen, who joined Bruegel as Affiliate Fellow at Bruegel in August 2013. Her main research interests include international macro and financial economics, central banking and EU institutions and policy making. Originally published at Bruegel.
Whats at stake: last week, the UK High Court ruled that the triggering of Article 50 and therefore the Brexit process should involve the UK Parliament. The Government will appeal the decision but this has created a new wave of uncertainty about the timing of Brexit, and on what this involvement can mean in practice. We review the different opinions.
Jo Murkens on the LSE blog has a very good explainer of the legal basis of the judgement, which he considers exemplary in its clarity and reasoning. The decisions focus is strictly constitutional, not political: the only question it examined was whether, as a matter of UK constitutional law, the Crown, acting through the government, is entitled to use prerogative powers to trigger Article 50 in order to cease to be a member of the European Union. This it turns out hinges on a balance between constitutional requirements and individual rights.
Article 50 allows the UK to withdraw from the EU in accordance with its own constitutional requirements. Turning to these requirements, the government argued that the Crown through the government has a prerogative power to authorise the UKs withdrawal from the EU, and that this power can only be taken away by express terms in an Act of Parliament. The court acknowledges the governments position as correct, but only with respect to rights and obligations created as a matter of international law. As soon as individual rights protected by domestic law are affected, Parliament must be involved, especially because some individual rights would be lost upon withdrawal, as they cannot be replicated in UK law. Murkens argues that the decision amounts to a proper drubbing for the government particularly because it was not the claimants that landed the hammer blow, but the government itself, by acknowledging that the Art.50 notification would inevitably lead to the loss of some individual rights. The next stop, however, is the UK Supreme Court.
David Allen Green writes in the FT that the High Court decision is as strong as it could be and creates a substantial problem for the prime ministers Brexit policy. The government should look hard at the reason for the courts judgment. Central to the judges thinking is the impact that leaving the EU will have on the rights of UK citizens: the court has said that extinguishing such rights cannot be done by mere executive action. But the problem is more than one of form. The difficult and interlocking legal issues created by the UK leaving the EU are such that the matter is not for a prime minister, or indeed a court, to decide.
Allen Green argues that the government is not taking the opportunity offered by the judgment to start the exercise again, properly: an appeal has been announced and the court has been denounced. Those in favour of the UK remaining in the EU can draw only limited comfort from the decision, because there is no reason to believe parliament will directly defy the result of the referendum. The only thing that has been undermined by the High Courts decision is Mays superficial approach to achieving Brexit. Eventually, the government will have to adopt a broader, more collaborative and more open approach to the process, as there is no alternative to making a success of it.
Camilla Macdonald discusses three options and argues that the ruling is not a victory for soft Brexit. The first option is for the government to succeed in overturning the result on appeal to the Supreme Court. MPs will then have the chance to debate at length, but they will have lost the leverage over the Government that the current ruling affords them. Second, the Government may lose the appeal and yet manage to face down the rebels in the Commons in time to meet Mays timetable of triggering Article 50 by March. This could be achieved by passing a non-amendable motion that presents MPs with a binary choice to approve or reject triggering article 50, assuming most MPs would not dare to risk the ire of the leave voting public. The third option which Macdonald considers the most likely is that the Government loses its appeal and is forced to introduce primary legislation, i.e. a Brexit bill, that will make it difficult, but not impossible, to meet the deadline. This is likely to force the Government to make concessions to MPs, but not necessarily in any form that will amount to a commitment to a soft Brexit.
Soft Brexit is what the majority of Labour, the Liberal Democrats, the SNP and part of Conservatives now want, but the biggest obstacle to this outcome is the lack of unity and of a negotiating strategy among this would-be coalition. In this situation, it is hard to see what red lines could be imposed on the government. Yet, Mcdonald thinks that involving Parliament in a process that will ultimately be defined by many complex and cross-cutting trade-offs might help to dispel the myths of simplistic hard and soft labelling. Nationalist parties would no longer plausibly be able to claim that they are excluded and the ruling could end up being an important victory for thought and reflection over rabble rousing on both sides.
Jolyon Maugham writes on FT Alphaville that after the High Courts Brexit decision, we should forget about the activation of Article 50 in March. The Governments appeal is likely to be heard in the Supreme Court in early December and this opens new risks. Lingering, unaddressed, in the background to this litigation is a question about whether an Article 50 notification is reversible. The High Court in reality proceeded on the assumption that a notification, once given, could not be withdrawn. But the Supreme Court has a different legal obligation and it might feel legally compelled to address that assumption directly. Addressing it would require a politically explosive referral to the European Court of Justice, because the question of whether a notification is reversible is one of European law. Beside the likely delay of around three months, a finding by the Supreme Court that an Article 50 notification could be pulled would leave ajar the door to a prospectively damaging continuation of the Referendum campaign until the time exit is formalised.
Assuming instead that the appeal fails, the government will have to draft a Bill and place it before parliament. And that Bill would have to pass both Houses of parliament. In the Commons there would be little or no enthusiasm for rejecting it, but it is likely that MPs would impose conditions on the triggering of Article 50, thus constraining the governments negotiating position. Parliament may wish to choose whether to accept the outcome of the negotiations and it may even require that the deal negotiated by the government be put back to the people in the form of a second referendum. In practical terms, it is difficult to contemplate that these steps drafting a Bill, debating it in the Commons, voting on amendments, placing it before the House of Lords and then addressing amendments introduced by the Upper Chamber in the Commons again can sensibly be taken after the result of the Supreme Court appeal is known but before March. So, unless the Supreme Court overturns the High Courts decision, Maugham thinks we should consider Mays March deadline ancient history.
Stephen Booth at Open Europe makes four main points about what this decision means going forward. First, if Government loses the appeal, then legislation is likely to be necessary. The reasoning of the ruling illustrates that, if the claimants argument holds (which regards rights stemming from EU membership set down in parliamentary legislation), the courts were never likely to be satisfied by anything short of legislation to trigger Article 50. Second, parliamentary moves to block Article 50 trigger would be politically explosive. It is unlikely that a majority of MPs in the Commons would actually move to block Brexit by preventing the Government triggering Article 50, especially having voted to give the public the opportunity to vote to leave the EU in the referendum. Booth argues that the same is probably true for the House of Lords, which would create a full-blown constitutional crisis if it opposed Article 50 outright.
Third, Parliaments leverage over process is far greater than over any negotiating mandate or outcome. So process is likely to be the focus of any parliamentary tussles over legislation to trigger Article 50, with MPs and Lords seeking to amend the Bill to give them greater and more formal powers to scrutinise. Fourth, Booth argues that a general election is not out of the question. This would certainly mean missing the end of March 2017 deadline but would also mean that any MPs seen to be blocking the referendum result would find it very hard to keep hold of their seats and this is why he thinks it is likely that an Article 50 Bill would be passed.
Jacob Funk Kirkegaard of the Peterson Institute for International Economics argues that for now, this turn of events exposes the hypocrisy of Mays government position of wanting to repatriate all EU political powers back to the United Kingdom, but wishing to deny the countrys sovereign lawmakers a say on the Article 50 process. Whatever happens, the court ruling has dealt a blow to the small right-wing clique of hardcore euro skeptics in the Conservative Party and Mays government and the potential direct involvement of Parliament is good political news for Jeremy Corbyn, leader of the Labour Party as his only path to becoming prime minister is the one that opens up if May and the Conservatives completely botch the Brexit negotiations. He also argues that this should also harden further the EU negotiating position. These developments make it more likely that May will soon be forced to call an early election to seek a new mandate on Brexit. The Conservatives would probably win, but an accelerating economic downturn, the United Kingdoms first past-the-post-electoral system, and a potential rallying of Remain supporters, could spring a surprise.
Tyler Cowen argues that the British parliamentary vote might matter. The more likely scenario in his view is simply that Parliament stalls, demanding that Theresa May give them the right Brexit. Of course there is no such thing, wrong Brexit is wrong Brexit, if only because EU-27 cannot agree on very much. But with enough stalling, eventually another national election will be held and of course Brexit would be a major issue, probably the major issue. That in essence would serve as a second referendum, and if anti-Brexit candidates did well enough, parliamentarians would have cover to go against the previous expression of the public will.
Gold nanoparticle cancer therapy reduces toxic chemotherapy effects (Nanowerk News) Virginia Tech scientists have developed a new cancer drug that uses gold nanoparticles created by the biotech firm CytImmune Sciences to deliver paclitaxel a commonly used chemotherapy drug directly to a tumor.
Because of the direct targeting, the new effort not only increases the effectiveness of paclitaxel, it also dramatically reduces devastating side effects such as hair loss, nausea, and nerve pain.
CytImmune earlier this year asked David Kingston, a University Distinguished Professor of Chemistry with the Virginia Tech College of Science, to create a paclitaxel derivative that binds to gold-based nanoparticles while in the blood stream, only releasing the drug once its inside a cancerous tumor. Paclitaxel chemotherapy is widely used to treat breast, ovarian, lung, and colon cancer.
The new nanomedicine is composed of 27 nm gold nanoparticles, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF), thiolated polyethylene glycol (PEG-thiol).
Paclitaxel side effects occur because the drug is given intravenously and thus is distributed throughout the body, and not just to the tumor, said Kingston, who joined the Virginia Tech Department of Chemistry in 1971. In addition, the solvent used to allow infusion has its own toxicity. Paclitaxel could be a much more effective drug if it could be targeted directly to the tumor. This would allow each dose to be given without causing significant side effects, and would thus increase the potential for cures.
In other words, for now, delivery of a paclitaxel equals a shotgun with pellets. The blast of killing a tumor results in great collateral damage. Kingston and his team say their delivery method is like a finely tuned rifle, using CytImmunes gold-based nanoparticles as the delivery bullet.
The gold nanoparticles are decorated with both paclitaxel and tumor necrosis factor a cell-signaling protein commonly called TNF. Gold nanoparticles are known to cling around cancerous tumors. TNF thus binds to the tumor blood vessel cells, ultimately killing them and reducing the high pressure inside the tumor, which prevents paclitaxel from reaching the cancer cells to kill them.
Now, the slowly released paclitaxel that is bound to the gold nanoparticles can reach its targeted cancer cells to kill them.
In early lab tests in treating mouse melanoma, a 2.5 milligram dose of paclitaxel delivered on Kingstons gold nanoparticles vehicle was essentially as effective as a dose of 40 milligrams of paclitaxel by itself.
The delivery method is expected to soon move toward clinical trial, said Kingston.
Findings by Kingston and his team including Jielu Zhao, a 2016 doctoral graduate in chemistry, now a chemist at Proctor and Gamble, and Shugeng Cao, a former post-doctorate researcher also in chemistry, now an associate professor at the University of Hawaii at Hilo were recently published in the scientific journal Bioconjugate Chemistry ("Synthesis and Evaluation of Paclitaxel-Loaded Gold Nanoparticles for Tumor-Targeted Drug Delivery").
Zhao and Cao carried out the actual synthesis of the paclitaxel derivatives with the designed linkers to allow them to bond to the gold nanoparticles, with Kingston supervising.
This approach has the potential to be a game-changer in nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, said Kingston, since it combines the power of drug targeting by tumor necrosis factor, with the advantages of nanoparticle delivery, including the low toxicity of nanoparticle drugs to normal, healthy tissue.
By combining the tumor blood vessel destroying activity of TNF with the cancer killing effect of paclitaxel onto CytImmunes tumor-targeted, stealth gold nanoparticles, Dr. Kingstons team and CytImmunes team may have potentially created a new cancer drug that is far more effective and less toxic to the human body, said Lawrence Tamarkin, chief executive officer at CytImmune.
Work on the new drug was split between Virginia Techs main Blacksburg campus and CytImmunes Rockville, Maryland, headquarters. Kingston has teamed with CytImmune in the past on tumor-targeting nanomedicine.
Human Brain Project specifies its research goals
(Nanowerk News) The European Human Brain Project (HBP) presented its new strategic objectives at its annual meeting in Florence in mid-October and now published them in the journal Neuron ("The Human Brain Project: Creating a European infrastructure to decode the Human Brain"). The scientists are aiming to decode the human brain. Therefore, HBP is creating a European research infrastructure to examine the most complex processes and structures of the brain using detailed analyses and simulations.
"With this paper, we show the ways, in which we will approach our objective of decoding the brain in the next few years," says Prof. Katrin Amunts, director of the Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1) at Forschungszentrum Julich and since June Chair of the new Science and Infrastructure Board, which is providing the scientific leadership of the Human Brain Project.
The scientists aim to comprehensively investigate the various spatial and temporal levels of brain organization in different experiments. This data will be used to develop models at all levels and test them in simulations, which will in turn help to refine experiments.
"Integrating the findings at all these levels of the brain is the key to an understanding of human brain organisation," says Amunts.
The research activities are divided into eleven subprojects: four of which are primarily dedicated to neuroscientific research, while six others provide hardware and software for experiments, analyses, and simulations.
In addition, one subproject is devoted to ethics and society. Information and communication technology (ICT) is expected to benefit from knowledge about the brain and the nervous system. For example, supercomputers can make use of findings regarding brain function, and improved control systems of robots will be developed.
"Through the new neuroinformatics platform, HBP is also showing itself as a pioneer of modern collaborative research," explains Julich scientist Prof. Thomas Lippert, head of the High Performance Analytics & Computing Platform of the HBP. "Our cloud technologies not only offer researchers access to analysis and simulation systems, they also provide them with platforms for cooperative software development as well as federated high-performance data systems throughout Europe," says Lippert, who is also director of the Julich Supercomputing Centre (JSC).
Making data centers green
(Nanowerk News) The value and scale of information grows unstoppably and data centers must size-up if they are to adequately meet their operational requirements.
The widespread use of cloud computing and Big Data comes hand-in-hand with the need for data storage, computing and networking facilities capable of ensuring a reliable and secure infrastructure for information systems to operate on. Due to the high energy demands of data centers and their corresponding networks, resource consumption has become a challenging concern that may hinder further development of network and data center systems. At present, typical resource utilization is about 5% to 25% according to some statistics. Future data center design, management, and applications must tackle the need for sufficient energy efficiency if their growth is not to be associated to environmental damage.
In view of the above scenario, an international cooperation ICT research project has been established and is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China. The objective of this research is to reduce currently high and inefficient energy consumption on data centers from the perspective of job scheduling and resource management.
The international research team already at work includes scientists from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Huazhong University of Science and Technology in China, IMDEA Networks Institute in Spain, and Temple University as well as University of California, Riverside in the USA.
Initial investigations made on the characteristics of power consumption by data center servers have yielded results to be applied to the energy-efficient technical design of data centers. The team has also developed routing schemes for data center networks that increase energy savings. Furthermore, a carbon-aware online control model for geographically distributed datacenters is being developed, where electricity costs, service level agreement (SLA) requirements, and an emission reduction budget are taken into consideration.
This internationally coordinated research project will last 5 years. Its findings and developed techniques aim to achieve a double objective: make data centers greener, thanks to reduced energy consumption and lesser CO 2 emissions, whilst maintaining satisfactory service levels. The team of researchers hopes that, thanks to this work, we can all continue to enjoy the convenience of using data centers, without diminishing our enjoyment of a clean and cared for environment.
More information:
Contact point for technical enquiries: Antonio Fernandez Anta, Research Professor at IMDEA Networks Institute. Research projects at IMDEA Networks (http://www.networks.imdea.org/research/projects): Datacenter with High Efficiency - Optimizing Organization and Scheduling of Datacenter Resources (http://www.networks.imdea.org/research/projects/datacenter-high-efficiency-optimizing-organization-and-scheduling)
Full bibliographic information
[1]. Biyu Zhou, Fa Zhang, Lin Wang, Chenying Hou, Antonio Fernandez Anta, Athanasios Vasilakos, Youshi Wang, Jie Wu, Zhiyong Liu. HDEER: A Distributed Routing Scheme for Energy Efficient Networking. IEEE Journal on Selected Areas in Communications (JSAC), 34(5):1-1, 2016.
[2]. Zhi Zhou, Fangming Liu, Ruolan Zou, Jiangchuan Liu, Hong Xu, Hai Jin, "Carbon-aware Online Control of Geo-Distributed Cloud Services", IEEE Transactions on Parallel and Distributed Systems, Volume 27, Issue 9, September 2016.
[3]. Jordi Arjona Aroca, Antonio Fernandez Anta, Miguel A. Mosteiro, Christopher Thraves, Lin Wang: Power-efficient assignment of virtual machines to physical machines. Future Generation Comp. Syst. 54: 82-94 (2016).
Anglophone political populism and the cultural rejection of climate change
(Nanowerk News) Donald Trumps US election victory follows hard on the back of the UKs Brexit vote in June. The results an expression of collective public preference from the electorate have shaken political and cultural establishments on both sides of the Atlantic. And they have unsettled me also.
However, Im interested in how the results of these different referenda in two of the worlds oldest democracies open a different window into understanding the cultural politics of climate change.
At one level, a political analysis would conclude that both results are a setback for national climate policies and international climate change agreements. A UK withdrawing from the EU, and its embedded environmental legislation is a UK that would seem more climate-sceptical than many climate progressives would wish for. And in the US, Trump has made fairly clear his own personal beliefs about human-induced climate change. With a Republican senate and house, it is not impossible to think of the USs withdrawal from the Paris Agreement.
But Im interested in a deeper cultural reading of what these two popular votes signify in the context of climate change. In their light it is perhaps ironic that it was largely US and UK science which, from the 1970s through the 1990s, really drove the scientific, public and political construction of the idea of anthropogenic global warming. Margaret Thatcher famously backed the reality of the enhanced greenhouse effect in 1990, as too did George Bush Sr in 1989.
So why now, in 2016, have clear electoral majorities in these two nations voted for political movements and parties which are predominantly sceptical of climate change? It is more than just a result of nefarious fossil-fuel corporations or well-funded libertarian think-tanks. Climate commentators and analysts need to look beyond these narrow explanations of resistance.
Climate change has become ideological
The connecting factor, I suggest, is a popular antipathy towards the shadowy ideology of globalism, the unexamined belief that the world will inevitably be a better place through transnational coordination of governance, finance and science, through the free flow of goods and people, and through a commitment to multiculturalism. This is the ideology which British and American citizens in their millions have voted against; yet in the minds of many, this is the ideology that lies behind the science, discourse and policies of climate change.
The rise of an anti-globalist populism in recent years, and its clear expression this year in these two electoral moments, should help us to read the phenomenon of climate change differently. We cannot understand it simply in terms of science and the environment or even in terms of economics and politics. How climate change is believed in or denied, how it is acted upon or resisted, can only be understood at the level of much deeper beliefs people hold about themselves and about how the world is and should be.
We can see this played out through the different types of climate agreements that have been sought-for over three decades. The idea of human-induced global climate change first emerged in public in a very particular era: in the 1980s and early 1990s when globalism and the new international world order was ascendant. It therefore was as much a cultural idea as it was a scientific discovery, as both sociologist Andrew Ross and Indian scholars Anil Agarwal and Sunita Narain observed astutely, in different ways, back in 1991.
Since then we have seen the idea of climate change and how it should be dealt with continue to evolve, from the centralised targets and timetables of Kyoto in 1997; to the failure to extend this form of climate governance at Copenhagen in 2009; to the optimistic volunteerism of Paris in 2015; and now into a new era where we will see the gap between international political rhetoric and national climate policy continue to get wider and wider in the years ahead.
A populist approach to climate change?
With the rise in populism and nationalism some new and nifty policy entrepreneurialism is needed, and it will have to tackle the risks of climate change obliquely. This is the strategy a group of colleagues and I called for in the Hartwell Paper back in 2010 (pdf) as a response to the financial crisis.
Made in the USA: electric cars. (Image: Steve Jurvetson, CC BY)
Energy security will become a more powerful driver of policy which, if played the right way, can make some low-carbon energy sources appeal to populist political instincts; as too can the argument for cleaner and smarter cities driven by new generation transport technologies which reduce congestion and improve air quality. If Trump were serious about reinvigorating the US motor industry then this would be one way to go, and sell to the world.
Sstudents and staff in Cashel Community School celebrated Positive Mental Health Week recently.
The week was packed full of activities to promote wellness in the school community. Teachers planned the week. In pastoral care classes students received wellness bookmarks from Mental Health Ireland highlighting the five key actions they can do to feel good and function well: Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning and Give. Students completed a survey on what music makes them feel happy and these songs were played at lunchtime.
A series of speakers visited the school -Transition year received a wellbeing talk from St. Patricks Mental Health Services, second year students got a presentation from Tipperary Youth Club Services highlighting the importance of connecting and trying new things. On Wednesday the school welcomed former Tipperary manager Liam Sheedy to the school where students were reminded of the importance of self- belief, exercise, fun and dealing with setbacks. Students received lollipops with the YOLO logo on Friday evening which generated lots of smiles.
First year students were treated to Zumba classes reminding them to try new challenges and have fun, mindfulness classes were introduced in Religion classes allowing students to interrupt the busyness of everyday school life and concentrate on their breathing. The first year choir sang at lunchtime celebrating the theme Express Yourself. All sixth years were involved in a tea and connect class reminding them that it is ok to talk about our challenges in life and the HSE #Little Things Campaign was discussed during these classes also. The Guidance Department visited all first year classes reminding classes of their support networks in school.
Humourfit Theatre visited on Friday with drama pieces on Alcohol Misuse and The Value of Life for senior cycle. The staffroom celebrated too where teachers donned odd shoes promoting the Walk In My Shoes Campaign from St. Patricks Mental Health Services and reminding students that it is good to talk about Positive Mental Health . The Green Ribbon Campaign supporting mental health one conversation at a time was also supported.
A Kindness Tree was set up in school and classes were encouraged to perform act of kindness throughout the week there was a great response to this and the tree was in full blossom by the end of the week. Positive affirmations were displayed around the school and on the display screens which reminded everybody that small things can make a big difference.
Four Clonmel gardai have been honoured for saving the life of a man who had fallen into the river in the town.
They were among forty seven rescuers who received recognition at Irish Water Safety's National Annual Awards Ceremony at the Print Works Conference Centre, Dublin Castle last week.
On 17th August last year, Gardai Mark Holden, Kieran Hayes, Claire Murphy and Kieran O'Regan received a call regarding a man who had fallen into the water at New Quay, Clonmel.
The Gardai immediately went to the scene.
Garda Mark Holden and Sgt. Kieran O'Regan entered the water. The four Gardai managed to bring the man to safety and waited with him until emergency services arrived to the scene.
Thirty-two lives were saved from drowning through the brave actions of forty-seven rescuers last year.
Presenting the awards, Simon Coveney, Minister for Housing, Planning & Local Government said he was delighted to be involved in this year's Irish Water Safety Awards Ceremony.
"It is an issue that I care deeply about and it is an honour to pay tribute to the courageous and deserving award winners.'
"Tragically an average of 133 people drown in Ireland every year," commented IWS Chairman Martin O'Sullivan, "and although that's 133 too many, the figure would be even higher but for the dramatic efforts of these individuals who saved others from drowning and the ongoing work of volunteers teaching swimming and water rescue skills."
Eternal youth is it possible?
Raising hopes
(NaturalNews) Scientists at Nottingham University may have discovered the "Fountain of Youth" hidden deep within our own cells. As we grow older, our body's tissues and functions begin to diminish, making us more prone to neurodegenerative diseases. However, after a major breakthrough in their quest to unravel and halt the aging process, the British researchers discovered a key cellular protein that could slow down or even stop this process.The study, led by Dr. Lisa Chakrabarti and Ph.D. student Amelia Pollard of the university's School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, offers new hope, as it could result in the development of new treatments to slow down the effects of ageing and halt the progression of debilitating conditions such as dementia, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. The work, published in the academic journal, was centered around a family of proteins called carbonic anhydrase. These proteins are found in our mitochondria, the "batteries" of our cells that convert the oxygen we breathe into energy to power our bodies.When the scientists analyzed the brain and muscle cells from healthy young brains and adult brains of mice, they found that levels of carbonic anhydrase proteins were in greater quantity and more active in the samples of the adult mice. Furthermore, they found similar heightened levels in samples from young mice suffering from early degeneration.To investigate whether the heightened levels of carbonic anhydrase were a result of a degenerative condition or just the body's attempt to protect itself against the aging process, the scientists fed carbonic anhydrase to tiny nematode worms. They found that carbonic anhydrase significantly reduced the lifespan of the worms, proving its role in the aging process of cells and tissues. Their findings imply that if there is a way of removing the protein from the cells, then it could extend one's lifespan.Dr. Lisa Chakrabarti said: "What's really exciting about this development is that we have been able to surmise that the function of this protein is playing a role in the ageing process within the cell. ..."This gives us a very promising start in working out how we can best target this protein within the mitochondria to slow the effects of aging in the body while limiting other unwanted side effects on the body," she added.As noted by Dr. Chakrabarti, this breakthrough in their research could potentially offer hope in tackling both degenerative illnesses and the general effects of aging on the body. While everybody will get old at some point, these new findings could be the answer to actively living our lives deep into old age.According to researchers from The University of Nottingham, aging has been associated with muscle mass loss which begins at around the age of 50, and becomes more pronounced in our 60s, leading to a decrease in strength and to greater frailty.Furthermore, an aging brain can cause cognitive impairments which affect memory, reasoning and multitasking, and can lead to dementia or other neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease.While the eternal youth treatment pill will not be available anytime soon, the Nottingham study could be the first step towards improving the quality and quantity of our lives as we age. Imagine if your brain could stay sharp and your muscles and bones strong, how much more you could you get out of life!
Induced coma for a month
As dangerous as a heart attack
(NaturalNews) A British teenager who thought she just had tonsillitis nearly died before doctors discovered that she had a raging blood infection that was systematically poisoning all of her internal organs.Jess Lewin, 19, of Plymouth, was diagnosed with sepsis, also known as septicemia or "blood poisoning." Although triggered by an infection, sepsis is actually caused by the immune system itself , which overreacts to the infection by flooding the body with inflammation-promoting compounds. It is these immune compounds that damage the body's organs and cause them to fail. Sepsis can also cause tissue death, producing gangrene.In the most severe cases, sepsis proceeds to septic shock, which includes life-threatening plunges in blood pressure.Lewin's saga began in April, when she began to feel sick and took a few days off work. When she did not feel any better, she went to a doctor who prescribed her fluids and Tylenol."I felt so awful," Lewin said. "By the end of the week, I was starting to feel dehydrated, dizzy and I had a lot of sickness and diarrhoea. It was getting progressively worse. I posted a status on Facebook asking my friends what they thought, but everyone just told me it was the flu."Eventually, her mother insisted on taking her back to the doctor, who sent her straight to the hospital. There she was given a CT scan, and doctors immediately put her under anesthesia for two emergency surgeries: one to remove her left ovary, which had gone septic, and another to insert a breathing tube. Doctors warned her parents that she might not survive.Lewin was in an induced coma for four weeks. The sepsis had spread to her uterus and lungs.When Lewin finally awoke, she had no memory of her time at the hospital, but could not ask questions because of her tracheostomy. It took another seven weeks of physical therapy before she could return home. She still becomes breathless and tired easily, and her hair has dramatically thinned.The British National Health Service recently released new guidelines directing that sepsis be treated with the same urgency as heart attacks. All patients with a rash, high pulse or fever should be screened for sepsis, and any suspected cases should immediately be referred to a senior nurse or doctor.Publication of the guidelines was moved up following the 2014 death from sepsis of William Mead due to health system failures.With treatment, most people recover from mild sepsis . Because early treatment is so important, however, patients should not delay in seeking medical attention.Although sepsis can be hard to distinguish from the flu, it does have a few telltale signs. Visit a hospital if you have a body temperature above 101 F or below 96.8 F that is accompanied by a heart rate above 90 beats per minute and a breathing rate above 20 breaths per minute.If these symptoms are accompanied by abdominal pain, trouble breathing, abnormal heartbeat, dramatic drops in urine output or sudden changes in mental status, it may indicate that organ failure has already begun.The risk of sepsis is higher from infections of the blood, kidneys, abdomen or lungs (pneumonia). Severe sepsis is more common in the very young or very old, the very sick, people with external or internal wounds or injuries, those with invasive devices such as catheters, and those with compromised immune systems.Rates of sepsis in the United States are on the rise, perhaps due to the increasing prevalence of drug-resistant superbugs , an aging population, and increasing numbers of people on immune-suppressing drugs such as cancer treatment
Armed units of the self-proclaimed Donetsk (DPR) and Luhansk (LPR) People's Republics have opened fire on positions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the area of fighting in Donbas 64 times in the past 24 hours, using artillery weapons and grenade launchers in their strikes, the press service of the headquarters of Kyiv's anti terrorist operation (ATO) in eastern Ukraine said on Sunday.
In particular, 43 instances of shelling were recorded near the city of Mariupol, where militant forces fired 152mm cannon artillery on the outskirts of Maryinka and Shyrokyne, and fired 122 cannon artillery on Talakivka.
Ukrainian military positions in Shyrokyne, Vodiane, Talakivka, Krasnohorivka and Bohdanivka came under mortar fire, the headquarters said. In addition to that, small arms, grenade launchers and infantry fighting vehicle weapons were also used against Shyrokyne, Lebedynske, Vodiane, Pavlopil, Taramchuk and Talakivka. Militant snipers were also operating in Shyrokyne and Pavlopil.
The militants committed 15 ceasefire violations in the Luhansk region, where small arms, grenade launchers and mortars were fired on Krymske, Novozvanivka, Valuiske, Malynove, Novo-Oleksandrivka and Troyitske, and 122mm cannon artillery weapons were also used against Novozvanivka and Troyitske, the press service said.
Avdiyivka in the Donetsk region came under mortar fire, and 122mm artillery weapons were used against the village of Tonenke, the press service said.
Draining the swamp will take time, and Trump will be subverted at every turn
Obama is so radical he's capable of anything
(NaturalNews) Talk show star and best-selling author, Dr. Michael Savage, is warning that President Obama, on his way out of office, may be planning to sabotage President-elect Donald J. Trump, leaving an ultra-disruptive "poison pill" that would throw the incoming administration, and the country, into chaos.In a recent issue of his free newsletter and also during a broadcast, Savage pointed out that the poison pill is likely already in place, in that most of Obama's political appointees especially in the Justice Department are far-Left radicals that are responsible for much of what ails the country.Even if Trump is able to keep 80 percent of his promises, Savage noted, there is no way to get the people Obama has placed in the federal bureaucracy out unless it's done by executive decree (which Trump, as head of the Executive Branch and all its agencies and bureaus, most definitely has the authority to do).One example Savage gave was Thomas Perez, head of the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division "one of the most fanatical leftists in the history of the world was put in there by Obama as a virtual poison pill."Savage noted that Perez is implementing policies that "make businesses almost inoperable," because "virtually everything is a civil rights violation to him."He asked: "How are we going to get rid of bureaucrats like that that are now running the federal government?"Again, Trump as president will have broad constitutional authority over his own Executive Branch. But the problem is, there are, that it will be hard to root them out. Remember IRS official, Lois Lerner, who was accused of purposely sabotaging conservative organizations that applied for tax-free status prior to the 2012 election by delaying their applications an action that prevented them from taking part in political action aimed at helping GOP nominee Mitt Romney and other Tea Party-affiliated candidates?It turns out, however, that the targeting was built-in to a corrupt IRS system one that was not found to be improper at all by Obama's corrupt Justice Department The point that Savage's example and these other examples prove, is that the federal bureaucracy is infested with careerists who have very different goals and political objectives than Trump will have. It's like he'll be walking through a pit of snakes every day he's in Washington, D.C., though that is precisely the "swamp" he is focused on "draining."But there's more. Obama is every bit as radical as those he has appointed, and there is every reason to believe he'll be unleashing some bombshells of his own before he leaves office now that he sees the end is near, and Trump, not Clinton, is next in line:-- As president, Obama has the power to pardon convicted felons (which he has already done). And he has promised more to come What if Obama would pardon? Again, he has the power to do it and his most ardent supporters, which include the radical Leftists who continue to protest Trump's election and threaten his life, would resoundingly approve, stupidly believing that "justice" will have been done (right before one of the most hardened of criminals knifes them in the back).-- It's no secret that the border between the United States and Mexico has been virtually wide open for months , with U.S. Border Patrol agents being told to stand down and redeploy miles away orders that can only come from the top.What would happen if Obama sent orders to the USBP to, as a way to "get even" with Trump over the latter's promise to "build a wall?"-- Speaking of illegal immigration, Obama has not only relaxed border security policies, but he's issued executive orders essentially granting many in the country illegal permanent residency, something federal courts have found unconstitutional But the laxity has energized hard-Left liberals in states like California, whose labor force depends heavily on illegal aliens. The reports that Trump's pledge to deport illegals puts him at odds with the state, with elected officials there vowing to fight his administration on any plans to actually enforce U.S. immigration laws.That in and of itself is problematic for a Trump administration, given that California produces the sixth-largest economy in the world, and is a vital source of revenue for the federal government.-- Finally, we have to remember that Obama said he's not leaving Washington after he is replaced by Trump. The excuse he gave is that he wants to allow his daughters to finish high school, but that's bogus. ObamaWe can expect that any time Trump seeks to roll back an Obama initiative, executive order or law (think Obamacare), the corrupt journo-terrorists in the George Soros-funded "mainstream" media will rush to Obama to get his opinion on it as if it is still relevant, and as if Trump, as president, is somehow not allowed to undo anything the Great Obama has created.Presidents are powerful these days more so than the founders ever wanted them to be so, as Savage notes, expect the unexpected "poison pill" from this most radical of presidents.
Immediate benefits
(NaturalNews) Voters overwhelmingly rejected the failing drug war at the voting polls, with eight out of nine states approving ballot measures loosening restrictions on the use of marijuana Arkansas, Florida, Montana and North Dakota became the 25th through 28th states (plus the District of Columbia) to approve marijuana for medical use. Perhaps of even greater significance, the number of states allowing recreational marijuana has now doubled, with Maine, Massachusetts, Nevada and California the nation's most populous state joining Alaska, Colorado, Oregon and Washington in embracing a legal, regulated recreational marijuana industry. A number of other states have also decriminalized cannabis, without legalizing it.Only Arizona rejected its recreational marijuana initiative. Medical marijuana remains legal in the state.Legalization advocates predict that the ballot victories will increase pressure on the federal government to end its prohibition of cannabis once and for all.The ballot victories were driven by high voter turnout among a population that increasingly recognizes marijuana as less harmful than alcohol or cigarettes . The new laws will regulate marijuana similarly to those products.Specifically, the states will all allow anyone 21 or older to possess an ounce of marijuana and six plants in their homes. The exceptions are Nevada, which only allows possession of plants for those living more than 25 miles from a marijuana retail store, and Maine, which allows possession of 2.5 ounces of marijuana, six flowering plants and 12 nonflowering plants.The most immediate impact of the new laws will likely be an end to the imprisonment and criminalization of people for simply using recreational marijuana without committing any other "crimes." California is already working to retroactively reduce the sentences of people convicted of some drug offenses prior to the law's passage.The states are also expected to set regulations for smoking marijuana in public spaces.All four states expect a significant economic boom to flow from the new industry."This is obviously a positive development, particularly with the size of California," said Morgan Fox of the Marijuana Policy Project. "The money that was going into the hands of criminals is going to be going into legitimate businesses."According to a recent study, legal marijuana contributed $2.39 billion to Colorado's economy in 2015, including $1 billion in sales, $120 million in tax revenue, the creation of 18,000 new jobs and the creation of additional business-to-business transactions and indirect jobs."All of it just generates and spins through the economy," said Jacob Rowberry of the Marijuana Policy Group, which commissioned the study.Full legalization on the horizon?In the longer term, legalization advocates hope that the increasing number of states rejecting prohibition will increase pressure on the federal government to do likewise."This is a big election, arguably bigger than the one we had two years ago where we added two states to the map," said Michael Collins, deputy director of the Drug Policy Alliance. "In California, one of the biggest states in the nation, all of the big state-versus-federal conflicts are going to be dramatically increased by what goes on. The end game is in sight."In recent years, the Justice Department has mostly directed federal law enforcement not to bother with marijuana prohibition enforcement. But the continuing prohibition of marijuana continues to create difficulties for legal marijuana businesses and the governments that seek to tax and regulate them.With larger states such as California and Massachusetts entering the marijuana regulation business, some of those hurdles may start to get figured out."It's really going to create examples for people in other states to look at when they're considering their own marijuana policies," Fox said.Evidence of marijuana's medical benefits also continues to mount. A recent study found that states with medical marijuana have seen dramatic drops in prescriptions of drugs for anxiety, depression, pain, nausea, psychosis, seizures, sleep disorders and spasticity, and a drop in opioid overdose deaths.
Hypersonic flights may be able to make travels from cities on opposite sides of the world much easier. New York to London will, in fact, be just as fast as half an hour, and aerospace officials said we are a few decades away from the possibility.
Experts from NASA, the U.S. Air Force, and Lockheed Martin told listeners at the recent Forum on American Aeronautics that hypersonic planes are "inevitable."
According to Science Alert, this means the arrival of planes that are capable of traveling at more than five times the speed of sound are possible.
This means planes will be capable of achieving speeds like 4,800 km/h (3,000 mph), making London to Sydney go as far as two hours.
NASA's David McBride said hypersonic and supersonic passenger planes are technologies that are well within human grasp. Supersonic means being able to travel faster than the speed of sound, while hypersonic is five times as fast.
The possibility of hypersonic travel will make planes less of a nuisance to forces on the ground.
Aerospace engineers and military experts explained the technology will be easily achievable through a few decades of development. They explained the field of aerospace today is at a point where things are happening all at once.
Strangely, hypersonic flight was already achieved in 1967. This was done by an aeronautical engineer William Knight with a rocket-powered North American X-15. It cruised at 7,274 km/h (4,250 mph or speeds of Mach 6.72) and even reached the edge of space.
Sadly, the record is still unbeaten. So far, Airbus has already patented a hypersonic jet that can fly from London and New York at Mach 4.5 speeds, or 4.5 times the speed of sound.
A joint US-Australian military project called the Hypersonic International Flight Research Experimentation passed a crucial test in the Australian desert.
The HiFiRE technology already achieved an altitude of 278 km at a speed of Mach 7.5. This means the craft can reach anywhere on the planet in a matter of hours.
However, it would still take 4.5 hours to fly from New York to Los Angeles as it did 30 years ago, which means there has to be a problem somewhere.
It lies with the sonic boom, as in the shockwave and the boom sound the aircraft makes by the time it hits the sound barrier. All supersonic aircraft have been banned from flying over land in the U.S. because of the booms they generate.
NASA is already in the process of making a jet that wouldn't make the same boom sound, which would hopefully have its tests in 2020.
Another problem is the lack of follow-ups every after a big breakthrough -- or the lack thereof.
Scientists are encouraging enthusiasts to continue raising money for research efforts instead of casually giving up the process in order to ensure the continuity of the field.
Researchers from Google's DeepMind announced some of their new artificial intelligence (AI) projects are learning "how" the world works -- akin how a child experiments with the way the world works. This opens an entirely new breakthrough in the realm of machine learning.
Misha Denil and her colleagues from the University of California, Berkeley announced that they have trained an AI to learn the "physical properties" of objects by interacting with them virtually.
This includes numerous aspects of the world, including questions such as "Can I sit on this?" or "Is it squishy?"
In their paper, the AI systems were experimented in two environments. The first involved introducing five blocks arranged in a tower. Others were stuck together to make larger blocks, while others did not.
The AI had to work out how many distinct blocks were there. It receives a reward for successes, and negative remarks for failures. The AI was able to experiment and interact with the tower to get the answer.
This was not, in fact. the first time simulations like this were done. Facebook already used simulations of stacked blocks to teach their neural networks to predict if towers would fall or not.
The approach is called deep reinforcement learning. According to New Scientist, DeepMind is known for such an approach. They already trained an AI to play games on Atari better by humans. This resulted in Google's purchase of the project.
Deep reinforcement learning is an approach where AIs solve tasks without instructions. This is similar to how animals and babies solve problems.
The method allows AI to find solutions for problems that are not readily available.
This is useful in the field of research where the virtual world could only do so much. AIs have a set number of possible interactions and cannot deal with distractions of the real world. There being able to accomplish such a feat will be useful in fields such as robotics.
For instance, Jiajun Wu from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology said this will be very useful for robots to travel difficult terrain.
Scholars may be in a run for their money with new developments in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) search engines.
Developments such as Semantic Scholar and Microsoft Academic may be on the way to make better papers than scholars.
The Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence (AI2)'s Semantic Scholar has released a format at the Society for Neuroscience annual meeting in San Diego.
According to Scientific American, the free AI-based scholarly search engine aims to outdo Google Scholar. Its recent move is to cover some 10 million research articles in computer science and neuroscience.
Semantic Scholar will be joined by numerous AI-based academic research engines, such as Microsoft's Academic.
The new software format is considered an "innovation," as the system will guide users through a dense "jungle of information."
Semantic Scholar aims to sort and rank academic papers through a "sophisticated" understanding of content and context. Google Scholar has access to about 200 million documents but searches by keywords.
Semantic Scholar can rank papers depending on the most meaningful citations, or even by "hotness" and trends.
Its first launch heralded a 3-million strong paper library about computer science. Now, there are millions of new papers on neurology and medicine. New filters will allow searches based on body parts, models, and even methodologies.
AI2 chief executive Oren Etzioni said the system wants to index all of PubMed and expand in the medical sciences.
Meanwhile, Microsoft Academic is the successor to Microsoft Academic Search. It aims to use academic search algorithms and data for researches through natural language processing. This is understanding the meaning of full sentences in papers and questions. It's supported by search engine Bing, which now covers over 160-million publications.
The engine provides more useful filters such as authors, journals and even fields of studies. It also has a "leaderboard" of most influential scientists in different disciplines. These are judged with a special algorithm that deems papers as "important" if they cited by other papers.
Some scholars say this is a tremendous achievement for Microsoft as it's combining both the advantages of Google Scholar's scope and the more structured results of their subscription-based counterparts Scopus and the Web of Science.
However, it doesn't end here. Other companies are also developing AI-driven software to delve deeply into content found online. For instance, the Max Planck Institute for Informatics in Germany is developing a new engine called DeepLife for health sciences.
AI2 will even try to make a system that will answer new science questions and even propose new designs and hypotheses in a few 20 years.
Uttar Pradesh Khadi and Village Industries Board (KVIC) Deputy CEO A K Shukla invited everyone to the ongoing Khadi Mahotsav in Lucknow, which features the sale of artisanal items made from elephant ivory by locals. According to the Indian Express, Shukla's invitation was sent out last Sunday through a press release, which seemed oblivious to the ivory trade ban imposed in the country.
India, along with 181 countries and the European Union, is a signatory of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), which protects not only the ivory from elephants but over 35,000 species of animals and plants as well. Other members of the CITES include the United States of America, Australia, South Africa, Kenya, Rwanda, China, Bahamas, and Ethiopia, India Times reports.
In the 1980s and '90s, the poaching of tuskers became extremely rampant in the southern states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, where reportedly 2,000 pachyderms were extinguished for two decades. India has about 30,000-35,000 elephants (not all have tusks though), with Karnataka as the richest source of elephant ivory followed closely by Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Odisha, regions with substantial tusker population.
In 2015, a sudden rise in poaching activity was again seen in these areas with around 30 elephant tuskers falling prey. Ivory has been traded for centuries all over the globe. Historically, elephant ivory was sought to make the whites of eyes of statues. Before plastic was invented, elephant tusks and their ivory were used as materials for false teeth, musical instruments, dominos, and other ornaments.
India is in possession of somewhere around 30 tons of ivory. Currently, there is a heated debate among research experts and wildlife conservationists whether the said stockpile should be burned like what was done in Kenya as a powerful demonstration against poaching and illegal ivory trade, or whether a part of it should be saved for research purposes. Kenya holds the world record of burning the largest pile of ivory, setting on fire at least a hundred tons of it.
Zimbabwe court has cleared Theo Bronkhorst, the professional hunter who assisted American hunter Walter Palmer and killer of the famous Cecil the Lion, of all criminal charges. Originally charged with failing to stop an illegal hunt, the court ruled that the charges against Bronkhorst "were too vague to enable to him to mount a proper defence."
In an interview with the BBC, Bronkhorsts legal counsel, Pepertua Dube, said the offense did not have the force of the law and was neither criminal in nature. As a professional hunter, more locally known as PH, Bronkhorsts role was only to arrange trips, secure necessary permits and licenses, attending to the needs of the client, and ensuring that the hunt abides by all the laws required.
On July 1, 2015, American dentist Walter Palmer paid a whopping $54,000 to bow-hunt Cecil the Lion, a major tourist attraction at Zimbabwes Hwange National Park. Palmers team, including Bronkhorst, shot Cecil with a bow in a nearby farm outside the park, where he occasionally wandered to explore, and then tracked him again for an additional 11 hours before finally putting an end to the animals life.
Lightning has always fascinated and scared the hell out of humans for a long time. NASA will be launching a new satellite (GOES-R) on Nov. 19, 2016 that will for the first time supply uninterrupted and improved lightning observation over the North American hemisphere. It has been over a decade since researchers at University of Washington (UW) have been keeping an eye on global lightning from the ground.
Lightning is not only related to public safety since a new study by UW has shown how data gathered from lightning strikes can help in precise storm forecasts. Robert Holzworth, co-author of the study, said that whenever lightning strikes the earth, it's easy to fathom where the convection motion is the strongest. He added that most lightning takes place in clouds with ice.
Published in the American Meteorological Society's Journal of Atmospheric and Oceanic Technology, the study shows a new technique to reconstruct lightning strikes into relevant information pertaining to weather. The US National Weather Service has already started using lightning as a device for better weather forecasts. However, this method has been restricted and scientists are of the view that it could be used in a broad range of forecasting systems in any corner of the globe.
The researchers tested this technique in two instances: the massive thunderstorm of 2012 in the US and a tornado in 2013 that killed many individuals in the Midwest region. Ken Dixon, the first author of the study, said that the data gathered from lightning helped them to adjust the air moisture, eventually improving weather forecast for a strong storm, rain, and wind event.
The study extracted information from the World Wide Lightning Location Network, which had a record of lightning strikes from 2004. They sell their data to government and commercial agencies besides working with scientists across the globe.
GOES-R will contain a geostationary satellite that will continuously observe lightning pulses over North and South America. It'll have the potential to enhance our comprehension of lightning as a hazard and an accurate forecasting tool, said Holzworth.
A group of scientists has discovered an exoplanet five times the mass of the Earth and is orbiting around a red dwarf star.
Using data from the European Southern Observatory's (ESO) High Accuracy Radial velocity Planet Searcher (HARPS) and HARPS-N instruments, researchers have found an exoplanet candidate orbiting around an M-class red dwarf star called GJ 536, which is located about 32.7 light years from Earth, Universe Today reports.
According to the scientists, the newly detected exoplanet is a super-Earth, a class of exoplanet that has between more than one, but less than 15, times the mass of the Earth.
"GJ 536 b is a small super Earth discovered in a very nearby star. It is part of the group of the smallest planets with measured mass," Alejandro Suarez Mascareno from the Instituto de Astrofisica de Canarias (IAC) who led the research team, told Universe Today.
Mascareno said that, while the planet is not located in the habitable zone of its star, its relatively close orbit and the star's brightness could make it a promising target for transmission spectroscopy if the transit can be detected.
"With a star so bright (V 9.7) it would be possible to obtain good quality spectra during the hypothetical transit to try to detect elements in the atmosphere of the planet. We are already designing a campaign for next year, but I guess we won't be the only ones," Mascareno added.
Data about the planet came from the HARPS and HARPS-N instruments mounted on ESO's 3.6-meter telescope at the La Silla Observatory in Chile and the 3.6-meter telescope at the La Palma Observatory in Spain. The data were combined with photometric data from the All Sky Automated Survey (ASAS).
The researchers detected the planet through radial velocity measurements from the star. Spectroscopic observations of the star were also taken over an 8.6 year period. Apart from detecting the planet, the researchers also found that it has a rotational period of about 44 days and a magnetic cycle that lasts less than three years.
According to the scientists, the discovery is only the first of a long line of exoplanets being discovered around M-class red dwarf stars. The team will continue observing GJ 536 to find gas giants or Earth-like planets.
The Earth is moving closer to global warming so fast it would be "game over" before we know it, scientists said. According to a new study, which was published in the journal Science Advances, the Earth's climate could become more sensitive to greenhouse gas emissions, further raising temperatures to more than 7 degrees Celsius within a lifetime.
The United Nations' (UN) Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) recently estimated that the "business as usual" approach to using large amounts of fossil fuels would put the Earth at risk of an average temperature rise of 2.6 degrees Celsius to 4.8 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels by 2100. Study authors said that these current estimates may be vastly underestimated.
The authors of the study - a team of climatologists and scientists from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, the University of Washington, the University of Albany and the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research in Germany - said that the actual figures could rise by 2100 to 4.78 and 7.36 degrees Celsius, as the Earth's climate has "substantially higher sensitivity" to greenhouse gases during warm phases.
In light of the new research, climatologist Michael Mann of Penn State University said that a Donald Trump presidency - if he pulls the U.S. out of the Paris climate pact - could mean "game over" for the climate.
"By 'game over for the climate,' I mean game over for stabilizing warming below dangerous (i.e. greater than 2C) levels," Mann told The Independent.
"If Trump makes good on his promises, and the US pulls out of the Paris [climate] treaty, it is difficult to see a path forward to keeping warming below those levels."
According to Dr. Tobias Friedrich, one of the authors of the study, the best way to prevent this from happening is to "reduce greenhouse gas emissions as soon as possible."
"Currently, our planet is in a warm phase - an interglacial period - and the associated increased climate sensitivity needs to be taken into account for future projections of warming induced by human activities," Friedrich told The Independent.
The leader of the Moldovan Party of Socialists (PSRM), Igor Dodon, has won the country's presidential election, according to the final election results after the Central Election Commission (CEC) processed 100% of voter ballots.
Dodon won 835,210 votes, of 52.18% of the electorate, according to the data published on the CEC website. The united candidate of the right-wing pro-European parties, Maia Sandu, mustered 765,460 votes, or 47.82%. The second round of the election involved over 1,615,781 voters, or 53.54% of all registered voters.
These data are preliminary, the CEC said. The official data will be announced in a few days, after the CEC has received the originals of all voting protocols and summed up the official results. The CEC has five days to do so, and then three days to submit the documentation to the Constitutional Court. The Court has ten days to decide on whether to approve the election results and confirm the presidential mandate.
Dodon announced his election victory at midnight. Sandu has yet to react to the election results. She said she will hold a press conference at 3 p.m.
Dodon has already received congratulations from Moldova's Prime Minister Pavel Filip and Parliamentary Speaker Andrian Candu, as well as Metropolitan Vladimir of Chisinau and All Moldova.
The tiny blue penguins in New Zealand are certainly getting a lot of love from their community. Just recently, an underpass was created especially for them to protect them from vehicles and afford them a bit of privacy from gawking tourists.
According to a report from The Guardian, the tunnel is meant to help these penguins pad between their nests and the sea, specifically to the Oamaru Harbour, Otago, on the east coast of the South Island. It follows the birds' usual route and the builders even transferred a couple of power and supply lines for the 80-foot long underpass.
"The project was supported by the local Waitaki district council, as well as a number of private businesses who offered labor, materials, and advice," Tourism Waitaki Limited general manager Jason Gaskill said.
Blue penguins are members of the world's smallest penguin species. A regular one is roughly one foot tall and weighs about one kilogram. They're usually spotted along the coast of southern Australia. The species lives to about a decade and waddles with a very distinct stoop.
Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony marine biologist Philippa Agnew revealed in a report from Otago Daily Times that the underpass was conceptualized because of penguins' nature to be very habitual in using their established paths despite the fact that it has become very busy.
"Well they're pretty set in their ways; they're pretty determined," Agnew explained in News Hub. "So when they come ashore to a specific area, they'll continue to do that."
The construction started back in September, a report from Mother Nature Network said. By November, it was already operational with lights to help the small creatures navigate their new underground route. Cameras were even placed in the tunnel for monitoring and observing.
Good news for the environment! Germany's coalition government has decided to take a big step in fighting climate change by cutting its greenhouse gas emissions by 80 to 95 percent in just by the year 2050.
According to a report from the Independent, the decision comes a week before the global climate summit, which will be held in Marrakesh, Morocco. The decision to cut back carbon emissions at a drastic will ease the pressure on Germany with regards to emission during the global climate summit.
Especially the sector targets, included in the climate protection plan, will be subject to a comprehensive impact assessment, said government spokesperson Georg Streiter via The Guardian.
Environment Minister Barbara Hendricks will present the agreement once the ministers' has come to a vote on Monday. Previously, ministers and the coalition has had a grueling negotiation after coming to the agreement due to the fear that the cut on carbon dioxide emissions might affect businesses, and , in turn, create unemployment.
"Other countries will only follow in the footsteps of our very ambitious climate policy if we manage to combine the fight against climate change with the protection of industrial jobs even in energy-intensive sectors," said Social Democrat leader and deputy chancellor Sigmar Gabriel.
Karsten Smidt, a spokesperson for Greenpeace International, showed support to the decision. By committing to halving emissions in the energy sector, the governments climate action plans effectively hail the phase-out of the coal industry and the end of the era of the combustion engine," Smidt said.
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Chicago is paving a way to lesser pollution in its city by enticing cyclists to ride their bikes more through a solar-powere floating bike path with picturesque river views.
The new project, tagged as RiverRide, is the brainchild of entrepreneur James Chuck, The Guardian reports. The RiverRide idea involves building a bike path floating on the Chicago River to eliminate traffic and car hassle for bikers.
RiverRide is a response to Chicago's goal of becoming a bike-friendly city. However, in order to achieve that, there should be separate, protected bike lanes from other vehicles to eliminate the risk of accidents -- and this is where Chuck's idea comes into play.
If you look at photographs of Chicago a hundred years ago, you couldnt throw a penny in the river without it landing on the deck of a boat or a barge. Now were not using the river at all, said Chuck.
Built using a technology used for pontoons, RiverSide will have floating segments attached at the end of the lane at the river's bank. It will also have solar-powered lighting as well as rectractable roof that will enanle cyclists to use the facilities even in bad weather.
The beauty of the floating system is that its quick and easy to install and dissemble ... If you want to pick it up and reuse it somewhere else, thats perfectly possible, says Kristian Rame, spokesperson for Finnish firm Marinetek, a technology partner of Chuck's company Second Shore.
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Myanmar is currently probing on whether to continue building the construction of China's controversial dam after it was halted in 2011 due to environmental and safety concerns.
According to the Daily Times, the hydro-power project called Myitsone dam costs $3.6 billion and aims to symbolize China's economic dominance from junta-run Myanmar. The dam, located in the northern Kachin state, poses environmental threats to the environment, and the country's civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi has commissioned an environmental and social impact assessment on the project before taking any actions.
The outlet notes that the decision will also consider the "desires and opinions of local people and societies and potential effects on foreign investment."
Environmentalists and protesters have previously opposed the continuation of the Chinese dam in Myanmar because of its highly controversial location. The Myitsone dam's location is near an active seismic fault. This means that once finished, this would lead to possible flooding in nearby areas.
The decision, according to AFP, will be a hard one as Beijing is still Myanmar's largest investor despite the country's democratic reforms.
In other news from Myanmar, a strange large metal object recently crashed in a Myanmar village. According to The Guardian, the metal object looks like a drum that's 4.5 meters wide (15 feet). The residents said they heard a large explosion when the metal object crashed to Earth and then bounced 50 meters across the compound of Hpakank, a mining company.
Every local thought it was the explosion of heavy artillery. I think it was an engine because I found a diode and many copper wires at the tail of the body, Ko Maung Myo said.
Unidentified piece of an aircraft, believed to be an engine, falls near Hpakant jade mine | #Myanmar https://t.co/W2im1NOCdh pic.twitter.com/NFRCJiAYM5 The Myanmar Times (@TheMyanmarTimes) November 11, 2016
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US President-elect Donald Trump has been open with his view on climate change being a hoax, and now, Trump has tapped one of the most popular climate skeptics, Myron Ebell, to lead the US EPA transition.
A report from the Scientific American notes that close sources to the Trump campaign has claimed that Ebell, the director of the Center for Energy and Environment at the conservative Competitive Enterprise Institute, is leading Trump's EPA transition plans.
Along with Ebell are other leaders chosen by Trump who will play leadership roles in energy and interior workings. These include Republican energy lobbyist Mike McKenna, who will be leading the Department of Energy, as well as David Bernhardt for the Interior Department.
Washington Post notes that Ebell suits Trump's environmental ideals. He is known for his idea that the government is using the environmental movement as a means to expand the government. He has also argued for the opening of federal lands for oil and gas exploration as well as coal mining, and has been a firm disbeliever of the Paris Climate Agreement, even urging the US Senate to vote against it.
There has been a little bit of warming ... but its been very modest and well within the range for natural variability, and whether its caused by human beings or not, its nothing to worry about," said Ebell about climate change in a 2007 Vanity Fair interview.
Ebell is yet to comment on his newly appointed position in leading the EPA.
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BART Police Chief Kenton Rainey is scheduled to retire from the force on Dec. 31, General Manager Grace Crunican wrote in an email sent to the transportation agency's Board of Directors last week.
Since taking the reins following the controversial shooting death of Oscar Grant in 2011, Rainey has been tasked with improving the department's policing behavior and policies following a review audit, Cruncian wrote.
The transportation agency expects that filling Rainey's vacant position could end up taking five months, according to Cruncian.
The general manager added that a team comprised of BART's Board of Directors, BART Police Citizen Review Board and BART Police Associations will work together to find a replacement.
Both Deputy Chiefs Ben Fairow and Jeff Jennings will assume the role as acting police chief once Rainey relieves himself of his duties, Cruncian wrote.
During Rainey's tenure, he had to manage a friendly-fire shooting death investigation after one of his officers was gunned down by a colleague, he faced a federal lawsuit relating to the agency's practice of denying the use of trained SWAT officers for building and probation searches, and he had to answer questions about the fleet's use of surveillance cameras.
NBC Bay Area attended the Oahu leg of the annual Hawai'i Food and Wine Festival and discovered a number of connections between the food worlds of Honolulu and San Francisco.
The festival invited a number of Bay Area chefs, including Commonwealth's Jason Fox, the Slanted Door's Charles Phan and Liholiho Yacht Club's Ravi Kapur to cook alongside local and international talent at various dream team events. State Bird Provisions chef/owners Nicole Krasinski and Stuart Brioza and their sous chef Gaby Maeda marveled at the breadth and quality of local produce that were presented to the chefs in advance as possible tools for their events.
"I grew up about a mile from here in Honolulu and I've never gotten to work with it before!" Maeda said enthusiastically of ulu (breadfruit), which the three incorporated into a goat cheese fritter, a variation of a dish that was served when Krasinski and Brioza got married on the Big Island.
A welcome event highlighted that Bay Area restaurateur Michael Mina opened a Waikiki branch of his Stripsteak this summer in the International Marketplace, a new luxury shopping center that also features an island branch of San Francisco's b. patisserie. Stripsteak's executive chef Benjamin Jenkins has been a longtime ace in Mina's portfolio of restaurants, beginning with the defunct Aqua, now the site for the flagship Michael Mina restaurant in San Francisco.
Mina also plans to open a refined food hall called The Street, a Michael Mina Social House inside the International Marketplace next spring that will feature two San Francisco exports: Ramen Bar and International Smoke, the latter a barbecue concept created in collaboration with Ayesha Curry, wife of Golden State Warriors star Steph Curry.
Chefs from the island have also turned to San Francisco as a key city for mainland culinary experience before returning to start their own restaurants. Such is the case with chef Chris Kajioka, who has worked with acclaimed Bay Area chefs like Ron Siegel, Mourad Lahlou and Thomas Keller (for Keller's Per Se in New York). His forthcoming restaurant Senia is due to open later this year and is one of Honolulu's most anticipated debuts.
The Bay Area love and influence also shows up in small, unexpected places like Honolulu's Otto Cake, a punk rock dessert shop that serves slices of lilikoi and other inventive cheesecakes alongside adorable store T-shirts that are styled in an obvious homage to Amoeba Music.
This isn't a one-sided affair, though; the Bay Area appears to be increasingly embracing Hawaiian food. The number of eateries that serve the island specialty of raw fish poke bowls, for example, has been exploding as one of the biggest local food trends in 2016. The love and respect is mutual and growing.
Kyivs Pechersky district court in a closed court session has decided to search a house and a studio of Shuster Live Show presenter, journalist Savik Shuster, CEO of 3S.tv TV channel Pavlo Yelizarov said on his Facebook page.
"As we have just learned from reliable sources, the judge of Pechersky court in a closed hearing without the presence of our lawyers, ruled a search warrant at place of residence of Savik Shuster and at the TV channel of Savik Shuster Studio," the statement says.
"We consider this as renewal of pressure," Yelizarov said.
In turn Shuster in the broadcast of his live show on Friday night, said: "I was told during the commercial break that Pechersky court has ruled to resume all pursuits against us and against me. The next week we expect searches and everything that we can not even imagine will happen here."
As reported, in April this year, the Kyiv City Employment Center annulled the right to work for Shuster in Ukraine in the office of Director General of LLC Savik Shuster Studio - television production, which produced the socio-political Shuster Live show. The decision was made on the basis of allegedly false certificate of good conduct.
The National Union of Journalists of Ukraine and the Independent Media Trade Union issued a statement in which they called the authorities actions illegal and qualified them as a manifestation of the legal censorship.
On July 12, the Kyiv Administrative Court of Appeals upheld the decision of the first instance court of the illegality of cancellation by the Kyiv City Employment Center of permit for work to the author and presenter of the Shuster LIVE talk show, Savik Shuster.
Along with the dozens of post-election anti-Trump protests across the Bay Area some peaceful, some not so much a wall went up at BART stations in San Francisco Monday morning.
But this was a Wall of Empathy, created out of post-it notes passersby were writing, reading and sharing to support minorities and offer post-election relief, albeit in an unusual place. The group behind the art project is using the hashtag #WallofEmpathy on social media to spread their message.
Hate crimes and hateful rhetoric have no place in our city. We are stronger together, Muriel MacDonald, one of the eevent organizers, said in a statement. We will be inviting passersby to share their feelings on sticky notes and build a Wall of Empathy.
The messages? "I love you," "If not now, when? If not me, who?" "Make America Great Again," "Trump values do not live in California," and in a typical Bay Area style attempt at humor: "I love Rosie O'Donnell."
The group behind the San Francisco wall said they were inspired by a similar event in New York:
Borrowing the idea from New Yorkers, we will be leaving Post-Election stickies and building a Wall. ... A Wall of Empathy. We are not going to support Trump America. Let's come together and share our grief to help build a better future. Stop by and leave a note or read and share them.
In the Bay Area, those disappointed by the Trump elections have been coming up with creative ways to let their frustrations out over the weekend, there was a group hug event at Dolores Park, pant-suit events to show solidarity for Hillary and in Oakland, psychologists from an El Cerritto nonprofit set up a white empathy tent along Lake Merritt, where strangers came to talk about their feelings in a non-judgmental safe space.
These protests have garnered ridicule from the Trump supporters and those on the right, who are calling out liberals for being too touchy feely and living in their own bubble.
The Wall of Empathy project will be going on until 10 p.m. Monday at the 16th Street BART Station. Walls of empathy were also created at the 24th street BART station in the Mission District and the Montgomery Street station downtown. Art materials and post-it notes will be available or you can bring your own.[[401147225, C]]
Oakland somatic therapist Allison White said she was so deeply sad about the election that she felt she needed to do something about it to heal her mind, and her body.
She regularly walks around Oaklands three-mile Lake Merritt, considered a jewel of the city, and talked to a handful of like-minded liberal friends about putting together a peaceful, therapeutic event for the community to join and heal. On Wednesday, she posted a public Facebook invitation for anyone to show up at the lake to join hands on Sunday afternoon.
We all need to be accepting of each other, White said of wanting to bring people together to heal, not to fight or protest or break windows of shops, which has been a recurring theme in some recent anti-Donald Trump protests in Oakland.
Her friend, Svieta Lana, said that one of their friends figured out theyd need 3,600 people to show up to complete the circle around Lake Merritt, situated between the county court house and the iconic Grand Lake Theatre.
Viewer Photos: Peaceful Protesters Hold 'Hands Around Lake Merritt' to Promote Peace and Love
Though the exact number wasnt tallied, the events Facebook page showed that nearly 8,500 people said they attended the affair, which was billed as an event to stand up to "racism, sexism, homophobia, and Islamophobia." Lana thought there might have even been 10,000 people there, as many brought children and friends, too.
Oakland police did not immediately know how many people attended, the event, but an aerial view on Sunday afternoon showed the entire ring of the lake was ringed with people, sometimes two or three people thick. Around 4 p.m., people grabbed hands and shot them high into the air.
Before the main event, an "empathy tent" was set up for anyone who wanted to talk, and children flashed "Free Listening" signs for those desiring an open ear. A group of psychotherapists belonging to the group "Sidewalk Talk" were also on hand to listen to concerns in a neutral fashion. Many on the right bashed this idea on social media, laughing at "liberals" for their touchy-feely approach to life.
But those who organized it felt the tents were important.
"I feel that marginalized people are going to feel the impact of this election differently that privileged folks because they are terrified about their safety," Traci Ruble, psychotherpaist and CEO of Psyched in San Francisco said.
Every time a bird flew up in the sky people clapped their hands and did the wave. One group brought a boombox and blasted "Love Train," a famous tune from The O'Jays. Others wore sticky notes with empathetic messages fastened with a safety pin, a new symbol of the movement
Yesterday was amazing, Lana said. It was what I envisioned. A lot of people want it again. I say, Why not?
A woman was found dead early Sunday morning in East Oakland, according to police.
Around 1:05 a.m., officers responded to a report of a victim suffering from a gunshot wound in the 10000 block of MacArthur Boulevard, police said.
The victim was pronounced dead at the scene, according to police.
No suspects were identified and no arrest was made. The identity of the victim was not released.
Hours earlier, on Saturday evening, a drive-by shooting had injured one person near the city's Fruitvale neighborhood.
Around 8:05 p.m., officers responded to a report of a shooting in the 2400 block of 35th Avenue, police said.
Upon arrival, they learned four male victims had been shot at by at least four other people from inside a vehicle.
One of the victims suffered a graze wound and was taken to a hospital, according to police.
Officers were unable to locate the suspects and did not make an arrest.
Anyone with information about any of the shootings is encouraged to call the police's Crime Stoppers line at (510) 777-8572. Callers have the option of remaining anonymous.
President-elect Donald Trump is making an overture to warring Republican circles by appointing GOP chief Reince Priebus as his White House chief of staff and Breitbart News executive Stephen Bannon as chief strategist and senior counselor.
The two men had made up the president-elect's chief of staff shortlist, and while Priebus received that job, Bannon's post also is expected to wield significant clout. The media executive with ties to the alt-right and white nationalist movement was given top billing in the press release announcing their appointments.
Priebus on Monday defended the media mogul, saying the two made an effective pair as they steered Trump past Democrat Hillary Clinton and toward the presidency. He sought to distance Bannon from the incendiary headlines on his website, saying they were written by unspecified others.
"Together, we've been able to manage a lot of the decision making in regard to the campaign," Priebus told NBC's "Today." ''It's worked very, very well."
Trump's hires were, at first glance, contradictory, though they fit a pattern of the celebrity businessman creating a veritable Rorschach test that allowed his supporters to see what they wanted. Priebus, who lashed the RNC to Trump this summer despite some intraparty objections, is a GOP operative with deep expertise of the Washington establishment that Trump has vowed to shake up. He has close ties to House Speaker Paul Ryan, a fellow Wisconsinite.
Bannon, meanwhile, helped transform the Breitbart News site into the leading mouthpiece of the party's anti-establishment wing, which helped fuel the businessman's political rise. Ryan has been one of his most frequent targets.
"Steve and Reince are highly qualified leaders who worked well together on our campaign and led us to a historic victory," Trump said Sunday in a statement announcing his picks. "Now I will have them both with me in the White House as we work to make America great again."
Neither Priebus nor Bannon brings policy experience to the White House. Chiefs of staff in particular play a significant role in policymaking, serving as a liaison to Cabinet agencies and deciding what information makes it to the president's desk. They're often one of the last people in the room with the president as major decisions are made.
In announcing the appointments, Trump said Priebus and Bannon would work as "equal partners" effectively creating two power centers in the West Wing. The arrangement is risky and could leave ambiguity over who makes final decisions.
Trump has long encouraged rivalries, both in business and in his presidential campaign. He cycled through three campaign managers during his White House run, creating a web of competing alliances among staffers.
Priebus is a traditional choice, one meant as an olive branch to the Republicans who control both houses of Congress as Trump looks to pass his legislative agenda.
The Bannon pick, however, is anything but uncontroversial.
Under Bannon's tenure, Brietbart pushed a nationalist agenda and became one of the leading outlets of the so-called alt-right a movement often associated with white supremacist ideas that oppose multiculturalism and defend "Western values."
John Weaver, a Republican strategist who worked for Ohio Gov. John Kasich's presidential campaign, tweeted, "The racist, fascist extreme right is represented footsteps from the Oval Office. Be very vigilant, America."
House minority leader Nancy Pelosi said in a statement that Trump "must try to bring America together- not continue to fan the flames of division and bigotry."
She said including Bannon in the new administration "is an alarming signal that President-elect Trump remains committed to the hateful and divisive vision that defined his campaign. There must be no sugarcoating the reality that a white nationalist has been named chief strategist for the Trump Administration," Pelosi said.
Bannon, who became campaign CEO in August, pushed Trump to adopt more populist rhetoric and paint rival Hillary Clinton as part of a global conspiracy made up of the political, financial and media elite, bankers bent on oppressing the country's working people a message that carried Trump to the White House but to some, carried anti-Semitic undertones.
An ex-wife of Bannon said he expressed fear of Jews when the two battled over sending their daughters to private school nearly a decade ago, according to court papers reviewed this summer by The Associated Press. In a sworn court declaration following their divorce, Mary Louise Piccard said her ex-husband had objected to sending their twin daughters to an elite Los Angeles academy because he "didn't want the girls going to school with Jews."
A spokeswoman for Bannon denied he made those statements.
The appointments came after a day in which Trump's tough-talking plan to rein in illegal immigration showed signs Sunday of cracking, with the president-elect seemingly backing off his vow to build a solid wall along the southern U.S. border and Ryan rejecting any "deportation force" targeting people in the country illegally.
Though Trump told CBS' "60 Minutes" in an interview which aired Sunday night that his border wall might look more like a fence in spots, one thing didn't change from his statements on this matter during the primary season: the combative billionaire took to Twitter to settle some scores.
During a four-hour spree, Trump gloated about establishment Republicans congratulating him and savaged The New York Times for being "dishonest" and "highly inaccurate."
"The @nytimes states today that DJT believes 'more countries should acquire nuclear weapons.' How dishonest are they. I never said this!" Trump tweeted late Sunday morning.
But in a March interview with the Times, Trump was asked whether he would object to Japan acquiring its own nuclear arsenal, which it does not now have. He replied, "Would I rather have North Korea have them with Japan sitting there having them also? You may very well be better off if that's the case."
Trump also told "60 Minutes" he would eschew the $400,000 annual salary for the president, taking only $1 a year.
With Illinois stopgap budget agreement set to expire at the end of December, Gov. Bruce Rauner penned an op-ed Monday encouraging lawmakers to look past the contentious election cycle to passing a full, balanced state budget, Crains Chicago Business reports.
This week the Illinois General Assembly will return to the state Capitol for its annual veto session, Rauner wrote. This is our opportunity to come together and pass a balanced budget, which is why I have invited the four legislative leaders to meet and immediately begin negotiations on an agreement containing a balanced budget and reforms.
However, Rauners Monday meeting was reportedly only being attended by fellow Republicans. House Speaker Michael Madigan announced Sunday that he wouldn't attend due to a scheduling conflict, though he reportedly asked to schedule a meeting for Tuesday instead. After Madigans announcement, Senate President John Cullerton also pulled out, claiming the meeting wouldnt be productive without his partys leader.
In his op-ed, Rauner also focused on pushing reforms tied to his beleaguered turnaround agenda, which were almost entirely cut out of Junes stopgap compromise.
We must include reforms that the people of Illinois are calling for economic reform to spur job growth, education reform to ensure that every child has access to a quality education, political reform to return power back to the people, property tax reform to give homeowners and business owners much needed relief, and pension reform to get our states financial footing back on the right track, Rauner wrote.
According to the governor, the state is on an unsustainable path that cant be fixed simply with tax hikes on Illinois families and job creators. Rauner also pushed for increased economic growth and lowered government spending, which he says can be addressed not by focusing primarily on cuts to human services, but by curbing the cost of our government bureaucracy.
Republicans cannot do this by themselves, nor can Democrats, Rauner wrote. For the benefit of all the people of Illinois, we have to get this done together on a bipartisan basis. So as the legislature returns to Springfield, lets move past the campaign. We need a balanced budget. We need reforms.
Now is the time to move forward together."
A judge has ordered "Making a Murderer" subject Brendan Dassey released from prison, pending his appeal.
"We are in the process of making arrangements for his release and hope that Brendan will be reunited with his family by Thanksgiving, if not sooner," Northwestern University's Center on Wrongful Convictions of Youth said in a statement. "We urge everyone to respect Brendans privacy during this time of transition."
The granting of Dassey's release, first reported by NBC affiliate station TMJ4, came during a ruling Monday, which outlined several conditions, including that he can only travel in the court's Eastern District of Wisconsin, cannot obtain a passport, cannot possess a gun or any other weapons or possess any controlled substances.
He also cannot contact his uncle Steven Avery, or the family of Teresa Halbach.
"As we give thanks this holiday season for family and friends, our food will taste all the sweeter because we know that for the first time in ten years, Brendan will be celebrating in freedom with his family, too," the center wrote.
Still, Attorney General Brad Schimel said he intends to file an emergency motion in the Seventh Circuit "seeking a stay of this release order."
A federal magistrate judge ruled in August that investigators tricked Dassey into confessing he helped Avery, rape, kill and mutilate photographer Halbach in 2005. Dassey, who turned 27 Wednesday, was 16 at the time. The magistrate ordered that Dassey be freed unless prosecutors appealed or decided to retry him.
In a brief filed with the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, Schimel urged the appeals court to reject Dassey's claim that his confession was coerced.
"Substantial police coercion" is required for any confession to be ruled involuntary, Schmel said. And he said the Wisconsin Court of Appeals was right to affirm in 2013 that Dassey's confession was voluntary.
Duffin held that investigators made specific promises of leniency to Dassey and that no "fair-minded jurists could disagree." He cited one investigator's comment early in the interview that "you don't have to worry about things," plus repeated comments like "it's OK" and that they already knew what happened.
But the magistrate's ruling "ignores both the facts and the law," the attorney general said. Investigators didn't promise leniency, he said, and specifically told Dassey they couldn't make any promises.
The teenager willingly spoke with investigators and was properly informed of his rights, Schimel said. The interview took a few hours in the middle of the day, while Dassey sat on a couch and drank a soda, the investigators spoke in normal tones, and did not threaten him or make false promises, he said. And Dassey confessed to most of the important details within an hour, in response to open-ended questions, he added.
"The state courts' conclusion that Dassey's confession was voluntary is not only reasonable; it is entirely correct. Accordingly, Dassey is not entitled to relief," the attorney general said.
Halbach was killed on Halloween 2005, after she visited the Avery family's salvage yard in Manitowoc County. Investigators allege Avery lured her there by asking her to take photos of a minivan. Dassey was sentenced to life in prison in 2007. Court documents describe him as a slow learner who had poor grades and has difficulty understanding language and speaking. Avery was convicted in a separate trial and was also sentenced to life in prison. He's pursuing his own appeal.
Their cases gained national attention after Netflix aired "Making a Murderer" last year. The series spawned widespread conjecture about the pair's innocence. Authorities who worked on the cases said the series was biased, but it generated a myriad of calls from the public to free both men.
Just in time for the holiday travel season, Chicagos OHare International Airport unveiled a new screening process that allows travelers to make their way through security faster.
The new system includes three innovation lanes that use 3-D technology to scan bags with automated belts and cameras. The lanes look the same, but airline officials say they are a whole lot better.
Additional tasks typically performed by Transportation Security Administration workers such as returning bins and diverting bags that have been marked for additional screening will also be automated in the new innovation lanes, allowing travelers to continue to flow through the security lines without interruption.
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Two of the new innovation lanes opened last week in American Airlines Terminal 3, with an additional three opening Monday in United Airlines Terminal 1.
Travelers using the new lanes will reportedly move through security on average of 30 percent faster.
OHare Airport is the first to unveil the new system, with rollouts expected to follow in Dallas, Fort Worth, Los Angeles, and Miami.
It's no coincidence the new system is in place just as Thanksgiving and holiday travels are about to begin. Airline officials are aiming to avoid scenes seen during the spring and summer vacation season after a shortage of screeners led to massive security lines with a wait time of up to two hours.
The new technology also may make it possible to leave liquids and laptops in your carryon bags, but in the initial rollout TSA have not yet made changes to the current travel regulations.
The Connecticut Supreme Court has sidestepped the issue of how social media accounts should be authenticated in criminal cases in a ruling upholding a murder conviction.
The court issued a 6-0 decision Monday in the appeal of Derrick Bouknight, who argued prosecutors didn't prove a Facebook account they used as evidence was his.
Justices, instead, said evidence against Bouknight was overwhelming. They also said he didn't prove the Facebook evidence had a substantial effect on the jury's verdict.
Bouknight is serving a 70-year prison sentence for fatally shooting William Baines in New Haven in 2010 in a dispute over a $100 debt.
Courts elsewhere have issued varying opinions on how much proof is required to show that a social media account belongs to a defendant.
Emergency crews knocked down a fire that heavily damaged a home on Hanover Road in Meriden Sunday night.
Firefighters were called to Hanover Road around 7 p.m. on reports of a fully involved house fire. Crews worked quickly to get the fire under control.
According to the Meriden Fire Chief Kenneth Morgan, the home was vacant at the time of the fire and will be a total loss.
The road was closed while crews worked to contain the blaze.
I think the biggest challenge was the fire was well advanced when we got here and it was unsafe to go in. So that was a challenge. Were very limited to get water where we need to get it because were shooting from the outside, Morgan said.
The road reopened around 9:45 p.m.
No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
A motorcyclist was seriously injured in an accident in Branford Sunday afternoon.
Police said the rider, identified as Christopher Scranton, 52, of West Haven, was traveling west on East Main Street around 4:30 p.m. when he was struck by a vehicle turning left onto Mill Plain Road.
Scranton suffered life threatening injuries and was taken to Yale-New Haven Hospital for treatment. The driver of the other vehicle, identified as Ellsworth Mcguigan, 79, of Branford, was not injured.
The road was closed in the area but has since reopened.
The South Central Connecticut Traffic Unit was called in to investigate. Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to contact Branford police at 203-481-4241.
The Kyiv office of the Prosecutor General's Office (PGO) has completed its investigation into the case involving former Health Minister of Ukraine Roman Vasylyshyn and the department director of Oleksandrovsky Clinical Hospital Yuriy Serniak. Both men were arrested taking bribes.
"It has been determined that the former deputy minister and Serniak created a bribery system that allowed practicing doctors to conduct operations in the Oleksandrosky Clinical Hospital. A number of doctors at the medical facility were obliged to pay them money received from patients," the press department of Kyiv's PGO said.
Prosecutors said the defendants and their lawyers have been notified about the completion of the probe in accordance with Article 290 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine and are acquainting themselves with the results of the investigation, after which the case will go to court.
As earlier reported, on July 8 agents from Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) and the PGO arrested Vasylyshyn and Serniak.
According to information provided by PGO Head Yuriy Lutsenko, the deputy health minister, who previously was in charge of Oleksandrovsky Clinical Hospital, introduced Donetsk native Serniak as the facility's new director. The urological clinic at the hospital determined which doctors could perform operations. Patients paid the doctors, who, in turn, paid Serniak. Money, ranging from UAH 50,000 to UAH 100,000 was collected once a week and was turned over to Vasylyshyn.
Dallas-based restaurant chain Chili's Grill & Bar has apologized and vowed to correct a wrongdoing after a local restaurant manager took away a free meal offered to veterans on Veterans Day.
U.S. Army veteran Ernest Walker, 47, of Cedar Hill, Texas, said he was served the meal as part of a promotion offering U.S. military veterans free meals on Veterans Day.
Walker finished his food and was preparing to leave the restaurant when the trouble began.
Walker, accompanied by his service dog Barack, said he believes an elderly man wearing an American flag shirt and Trump sticker told the restaurant manager that Walker was wearing his cap indoors and was not a U.S. veteran and should not receive the free meal.
In an encounter captured on video by Walker and posted to Facebook, the manager asked for Walker's military ID, which he provided. Walker also provided his discharge paperwork.
Walker said the manager then took his to-go meal.
"I looked around and I'm embarrassed at this point," Walker said. "People are looking. I'm a soldier. I'm a person and everybody's looking like I stole food."
The manager also indicated the service dog was not a service dog, despite having a red service vest and certified service tags.
On Sunday, Chili's issued the following statement on Walker's Facebook page and to NBCDFW. It reads:
"We are aware of the situation that occurred at our Chili's Cedar Hill restaurant on November 11th. Our goal is to make every guest feel special and unfortunately we fell short on a day where we serve more than 180,000 free meals as a small token to honor our Veterans and active military for their service, hence these actions do not reflect the beliefs of our brand. We are taking this very seriously and the leaders in our company are actively involved with the goal of making it right. Since the incident occurred, we have extended an apology and we are reaching out to the guest."
"They're doing what they should do, but they still haven't validated me as a soldier," said Walker. "I just need him to say, 'I see your ID, I see your DD214, and I respect you as a soldier, and as a man and as a customer.'"
Walker said he served in the Army's 25th Infantry Division, serving from 1987 to 1991. He said he was in an Army uniform without his name or rank on it on Veterans Day because he did not want to be mistaken for an active-duty soldier.
"I wear this one day a year," said Walker. "I'm not some kook that's reliving the past."
Monday, Chili's issued an additional statement saying they had spoken with the veteran and had removed the manager from the restaurant. Walker's attorney Kim Cole said the manager has been suspended pending an investigation by the company.
"Today, we personally apologized to Mr. Walker for the unfortunate experience in our restaurant on Veterans Day and thanked him for his service to our country. We also thanked him for taking the time to speak with us and he appreciated our apology. Our goal is to make every Guest that walks into our restaurants feel special and we fully own that one of our restaurants fell short on an important day where we strive to honor our veterans and active military for their service. We took swift action and immediately removed our manager from the restaurant. We are now in the process of working with Mr. Walker on a resolution that promotes trust and healing."
Monday afternoon, the mayor of Cedar Hill, Rob Franke, said the situation was not reflective of his community and that people should be concerned for the veteran as well as the restaurant's manager.
Franke's entire statement can be read below:
Demonstrators upset over the election of Donald Trump have marched in cities around the country over the past week, and some are making plans to be in Washington for his inauguration Jan. 20. But whether marches will become a movement is an open question.
At this early stage, the protesters who have taken to the streets to brand Trump a bigot and a sexist and chant "Not my president!" appear to be mostly venting their frustrations and do not seem to have coalesced behind overall leaders or a common set of demands.
Columbia University professor Todd Gitlin, who as an early leader of Students for a Democratic Society helped organize an anti-Vietnam War demonstration that brought thousands to Washington in 1965, said the anti-Trump protests by themselves "are not the makings of a movement."
"A movement requires that clusters of people take responsibility for creating vehicles that can carry through, focus energy, develop priorities, strategize, recruit, figure out how to govern themselves," Gitlin said.
For that to happen, a critical mass of protesters has to "transform their mindset from protest into successful politics, which is much less exciting," he said. Gitlin said that means "dirtying our hands in winning local and state battles which are instrumental to changing the national balance."
On Monday, hundreds of students decrying Trump's election walked out of schools in Denver, Los Angeles, Seattle and Silver Spring, Maryland, after a weekend in which thousands of people demonstrated around the country and scores were arrested.
The Seattle Police Department tweeted Monday evening that two adult men were arrested after assaulting officers. The department added the two people are not Seattle public school students.
Thousands of students across Seattle chanted as they marched in the streets and waved "Not My President" or "Love Wins" signs.
Seattle Public Schools spokesman Luke Duecy reported more than 5,000 students from 20 middle and high schools walked out of classes Monday.
Some said they oppose Trump's divisive rhetoric and wanted to show support for those he targeted, such as Muslims or immigrants. Others say they came to support their friends or simply to observe.
High school senior Rose Taylor, who is bisexual, says she worries about what Trump's election will mean for the LGBT community and others.
Protesters threw rocks at police in Indianapolis and hurled bottles and other objects in Portland, Oregon. Marchers have also converged on Trump Tower in New York, the president-elect's transition headquarters.
Among other things, the demonstrators have condemned Trump's behavior toward women and his stand on immigration and civil liberties.
Ralph Young, a history professor at Temple University in Philadelphia who teaches a course on dissent in America and has written two books on the topic, said it is too early to predict what the marches might become.
Once Trump becomes president and starts making policy decisions, that could crystalize opposition and focus people's attention on certain issues, he said. If the anti-Trump demonstrations are going to become a movement, they also need leaders who can articulate their grievances, he said.
Jamie Henn of the group 350, which organizes protests to fight climate change, said liberal activist groups are still scrambling to figure out how they will push back against a Trump presidency.
"There is definitely stuff coming together and being planned that looks like the messy process of everyone and their mother throwing up something on their Facebook page," Henn said.
Henn said liberals haven't seen the need for this level of mobilization since the run-up to the Iraq War. But activists remember glumly how little a dent their big marches against the invasion made then, and may use different tactics this time.
Some groups are already trying to come together, though there are differences of opinion, said Greg McKelvey, a protest organizer in Portland, Oregon. McKelvey said demonstrators are trying to organize with counterparts in New York; Washington; Austin, Texas; Oakland, California; Boston; and a few other cities.
Some activists want to prevent Trump somehow from becoming president, while others feel that's inevitable and instead want to insulate their communities from his policies, McKelvey said. He said his group, Portland's Resistance, aims to make sure city and state governments are working on issues such as limiting climate change, pushing for better health care and dealing with racial disparities in policing.
Trump's election has made activists out of people who haven't been part of any organized demonstrations before.
Olivia Antezana, a 19-year-old sophomore at the University of Maryland at College Park, had never been to a demonstration before creating and promoting a "Not My President" event on Facebook. By Monday afternoon, 18,000 people had indicated on Facebook that they would be going to the event in Washington on Inauguration Day.
"I will say I certainly underestimated it," Antezana said.
Still, Antezana said she is not sure what she will do after the demonstration she is planning is over. She doesn't plan to join a political campaign, she said, though she would like to keep up with activism. Right now, she said, she has another priority: school.
FEMA has rejected Gov. Dannel Malloys request to set up an operation in northeastern Connecticut to investigate the crumbling foundations.
In October, the governor wrote FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate asking the agency to establish a field office in northeastern Connecticut to conduct a preliminary damage assessment to determine the extent and impact of what he describes as approximately 34,000 homes in the area with foundations that could be at risk of crumbling and actually collapsing.
A state investigation concluded what the NBC Connecticut Troubleshooters reported over year ago, that a chemical reaction involving a naturally-occurring mineral called pyrrhotite causes the in deterioration.
In a letter dated Nov. 8, Fugate responded that while the chemical reaction that caused the crumbling is natural, pouring foundations is a manmade event, therefore the issue is not a natural catastrophe.
Fugate did offer to make a liaison available to assist the state in coordinating with other federal partners.
NBC Connecticut has reached out to the governor's office for comment.
See prior stories about the crumbling foundations issue.
Authorities said a 26-year-old man was killed after being ejected from a motorcycle on a Loop 12 bridge Sunday night.
Dallas police said the driver later identified as Darian Thomas was headed south in the 4300 block of South Walton Walker Boulevard at a high rate of speed at about 9:20 p.m.
Police said Thomas lost control on a curve, crashed into a retaining wall and was ejected off the bridge onto Cockrell Hill Road.
Thomas was pronounced dead at the scene.
No further details have been released.
More than a month ago, NBC 5 Investigates uncovered a ticket scandal involving Dallas County Schools bus drivers caught on camera running red lights.
We've learned the videos may be just one part of a larger safety problem involving Dallas County Schools, the busing agency for the Dallas Independent School District and 10 others in North Texas.
Monday morning, NBC 5 Investigates Reporter Scott Friedman and Producer Eva Parks discussed what has been uncovered over the last three years and what we'll reveal in a series of reports this week.
The video interview can be seen above.
At least one person has been killed on a Texas road every day for the last 16 years, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.
That sobering statistic, which has resulted in more than 55,000 deaths since Nov. 7, 2000, has prompted TxDOT to launch its #EndTheStreakTX social media campaign. The campaign aims to encourage drivers to make better decisions behind the wheel.
TxDOTs plan is a noble goal, for sure, but theyre really not asking for a lot with this, Fort Worth Police Department Sgt. Brent Halford said. Thats not just an optimistic goal, thats something [that should be] a very realistic goal. Theyre really setting the benchmark pretty low there.
Halford spoke with NBC 5 as a representative of the FWPD, but also as a man who lost a good friend during that streak.
Officer Dwayne Freeto was nine months into his career with the Fort Worth Police Department in December 2006 when he stopped to help a driver who had blown out a tire along Interstate 35W. Freetos patrol car was rear-ended by a drunk driver, which caused the car to burst into flames and trap the husband and father of two inside, killing him.
Halford lamented the fact that Freetos daughters were forced to grow up without a father because someone made a bad, and preventable, decision. And he added that the figure of 55,000 people killed does not even begin to address the impact.
If every one of those people had two children, and one brother, and one sister, and two parents look at how many people are affected, he said. Now youre talking hundreds of thousands of people that are dealing with this for the rest of their life.
Accidents are bound to happen, according to Halford, but many fatal crashes involve people who have made poor decisions, like drinking and driving, failing to buckle their safety belts, driving distracted or speeding.
A two-month-old baby was found safe Saturday after being kidnapped and taken to Mexico.
The boy's father, Jose Garcia, spent three long days searching for his son. Max Garcias mother took the baby and fled to Mexico.
The baby's father received a tip from Facebook from one of her ex-boyfriends that ultimately led to her and the baby.
Now, the father is faced with a new challenge: when he's going to get his son back.
Kidnapped baby found safe in Mexico. Now dad has new challenge- when he'll see his son again. #NBC7 pic.twitter.com/tjEUoz65Bl Ashley Matthews (@ashleyNBC7) November 13, 2016
Garcia said his son is safe at a facility in Mazatlan and his ex-girlfriend has been released from custody. Garcia, relieved but frustrated that he has no clue when he'll get his son back, says he's heard next to nothing from law enforcement. "I think I have that right to know how my son is going to be transported back and where he's at and what time because he is a two month old baby," Garcia said.
The baby's mother, Erika Ramos Saucedo, is accused of kidnapping Max and taking him to Mexico. On Thursday, a county worker with Child Protective Services left max alone with Ramos; she then fled in her car. A Facebook tip led federal authorities to Mazatlan; a little more than one thousand miles from National City, where she has family. Jose Garcia is working with private investigator Bill Garcia, who found her car Saturday. "We did locate the car in the outskirts of Tijuana. In the furthest eastern most part of Tijuana," said Bill Garcia.
Documents from Child Protective Services regarding Ramos show the agency was worried that Ramos would flee with her child based on past behavior. There is also a long list of domestic violence cases against Ramos. Garcia is worried on the fate of his son once he gets back to the United States. Garcia added, my son is still going to cross the border and go back to CPS' hands, you know the people who are responsible who in fact lost my son."
Garcia told NBC 7 Ramos has five children and does not have custody of any of them.
National City Police will be working on a criminal case against Ramos, and submitting that to the District Attorney's office.
A warrant will be in the system for Ramos if or when she comes back to the United States.
About 150 students from Garfield High School in Los Angeles were protesting the election of Donald J. Trump Monday by walking off campus and marching toward Mariachi Plaza for a planned rally.
At about 9 a.m., the students, carrying signs and the flags of the United States and Mexico, were walking from the campus toward Mariachi Plaza east of downtown Los Angeles. By late morning, students from campuses including Roosevelt, Lincoln and Mendez high schools joined in the march, all walking toward the large-scale rally.
Some students said they felt compelled to march to make their voices heard and demand that they and their immigrant families be protected.
Los Angeles County has an undocumented immigrant population estimated as high as 800,000, about 12 percent of the county's 10 million residents, according to the Public Policy Institute of California. The agency estimates that nearly 40 percent of adult undocumented immigrants live with children who were born in the United States. An estimated 13 percent of K-12 students in California have a parent who is an undocumented immigrant, according to PPIC.
A hard-line stance on immigrant was a central theme of President-elect Trump's campaign, but the Manhattan billionaire businessman said during his first post-election interview that he will focus on deporting criminal immigrants and not everyone living in the United States illegally. Trump also said he might be amenable to a fence along some parts of the roughly 2,000-mile border instead of the wall he proposed during the campaign.
As a candidate for president, he called for everyone living in the country illegally to return to their home countries and for Mexico to pay billions of dollars for the wall.
Earlier Monday, Los Angeles police had warned of the impending demonstrations in a statement that stated: "It is very difficult to ensure the safety of children when they leave the safe confines of their school campuses."
The statement encouraged parents "to discuss with their children the importance of abiding by the law and ensuring that any expression of opinion should be done in a lawful, safe and peaceful manner."
The statement warned that protesters who are not peaceful and lawful are subject to arrest for such violations as obstruction of movement of vehicles and people, refusal to obey a lawful order by a law enforcement officer, vandalism and refusal to disperse after an unlawful assembly is declared.
Thousands of students around Los Angeles County walked out of schools last week to demonstrate against the election outcome, prompting Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent Michelle King to advise students they can participate in on-campus demonstrations as long as they are peaceful and during non-instructional times, but they are not permitted to leave school.
Veterans who return home after serving can have a long and difficult road to recovery, but one nonprofit is helping veterans find emotional and physical therapy just off the coast of Southern California.
Dive Warriors is a nonprofit organization founded by Brad Mirman. The organization teaches veterans how to scuba dive and takes them out to the ocean once a month.
"If youre a disabled veteran in the Southern California area, we will teach you how to dive, we will get you certified, and you come on the boat and Dive Warriors pays for it all," Mirman said.
Mirman is not a veteran, but he gave up his career as a screenwriter to grow Dive Warriors after what he saw in veterans who came to the organization.
Dive Warriors: Helping Disabled Veterans Recover Through Scuba Diving
"A lot of them when they come there's a darkness in their eyes, there's a broken spirit to them," Mirman said. "As they immerse in this group bonds form, and that light comes back in their eyes."
Jared Lemon is one of the veterans who says that diving makes him feel free. The 35-year-old from Temecula lost his arm while deployed in the army, but once he is underwater, he can no longer feel the phantom pain.
"It helps release them demons, all them negative thoughts and the things that stay with you after war," Lemon said.
Being part of Dive Warriors has even brought some veterans back from the brink.
Kelly McCumisky is confined to a wheelchair and suffers from PTSD. The first time she took a dive, she had planned never to come back up.
"My whole experience was to commit suicide and that nobody would figure out that that's what I had done," McCumisky said.
Dive Warriors took our vets to Catalina. What a great day. Please support our cause. https://t.co/ZmJ7M5Uqev pic.twitter.com/2fIvLIpd1A Dive Warriors (@divewarriors) March 15, 2016
Now, like Lemon, McCumisky feels free when she is underwater.
"Thats the time I'm free, out of this chair and feel like everybody else," she said.
These veterans also find comfort in each other and being around people who can understand them.
"I needed a group that could understand me and I could understand and feel safe in," McCumisky said. "These guys do that for me."
Kyle Schneider, a Navy veteran, said that being part of Dive Warriors "brings us into becoming an overall family."
For more information about Dive Warriors, visit their website.
[NATL] Top News Photos: Pope Visits Japan, and More
Less than a week after amendment two passed in Florida, which legalized the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes, serious interest is growing for the cannabis industry.
Robert Calkin, president of the Cannabis Career Institute, offers training courses for those interested in the emerging marijuana market to learn about the legal requirements and regulations to even basic weed growing techniques.
Calkin says the cannabis industry is huge and now everybody is wondering how they can make money in the business.
"They want to know how to create a tax paying entity thats going to allow them to make money," Calkin said. "They want to be like the butcher, the baker and candlestick maker- they want to be normalized.
Dr. Nancy Powers, a South Florida holistic physician, was among the workshop attendees and says now that amendment two was passed she is looking forward to applying what shes learned.
"I personally experienced skin cancer and medical marijuana saved my life and I intend on helping save the lives of so many Floridians dealing with this," Powers said.
Among the workshops speakers was attorney Ivette Gonzalez Petkovich who says its important for those going into the business to maintain the integrity of the medical marijuana industry
"If somebody is not qualified to receive this medication a doctor should not issue the recommendation because at the end of the day they'd be hurting the masses of people that really do need all of this." Petkovich said
The Cannabis Institute is scheduled to return next month to South Florida.
Khatia Dekanoidze, the head of Ukraine's National Police, said on Monday she is resigning.
"As I promised, I created a foundation for the development of a new national police in the course of one year. I stayed loyal to you and your interests until the last minute of my work. But unfortunately, my powers and will were not sufficient for sharp changes. I've done my duty, and therefore I announce my resignation," Dekanoidze told reporters in Kyiv on Monday.
Dekanoidze said she believes an open contest for the post of the new head of the National Police should be conducted as soon as possible.
She also said she does not see Vadym Troyan, first deputy head of the National Police, as new head of Ukraine's National Police as he is not politically independent. "I believe the new head of the National Police should be elected via a contest," Dekanoidze said.
Dekanoidze said she was faced with politicians' attempts to interfere in the work of the police several times over the year that she has worked in this position. However, she did not mention any specific situations and did not give any politicians' names. Dekanoidze only said this is unacceptable.
Khatia Dekanoidze began working in the team of Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili and headed up the administration of the Georgian Security Council at the age of 24. She later became Georgia's education minister and she was also head of a police academy.
In Ukraine, she initially worked as adviser to Interior Minister Arsen Avakov. She was appointed head of Ukraine's National Police on November 4, 2015.
Rumors about Dekanoidze's resignation began after Deputy Interior Minister Eka Zguladze left the Interior Ministry in May 2016.
Ukraine's Interior Minister Arsen Avakov later thanked Dekanoidze for her work and said Vadim Troyan would fulfill the duties of the head of Ukraine's National Police.
Vadym Troyan is first deputy head of Ukraine's National Police.
The marching band at Coconut Creek High School produces a joyous cacophony of sound, music to the ears of anyone who hears it.
The raucous noise in the schools auto shop is also a sweet mix of sounds for students in Bob Lowerys automobile technicians program. He trains students to take jobs in the auto industry, plentiful jobs with good pay, for kids who can hack it.
"You can make a very good career for the rest of your life, and it is a high tech career now, it is no longer the grease monkey that we used to think it was, highly computerized, highly, highly technical," Lowery said.
Coconut Creek High has been an icon in North Broward for more than 40 years, a traditional, comprehensive high school which now has a brand-new magnet program. Its called the Creek Technical Academy.
"Every high schools graduating kids and you have to set yourself apart as a student when youre going to college and have something that other students dont have and our technical academy is gonna give kids that advantage," said principal Scott Fiske. "The intent is to go to college, were not trying to usurp college in any way."
The CAT is designed to give students college credit plus an industry certification while theyre in high school, so they can work in their field of interest while theyre in college.
"For example," Fiske said, "Someone who wants to go to law school, we can hand them a certificate as a court reporter coming out of high school, they can be in a courtroom around judges and lawyers while theyre in college studying."
The CAT includes 30 academic areas, from computer engineering to nursing to culinary arts and much more.
"Its brought a whole new excitement to the school," said magnet program coordinator Jill Ridinger. "The magnet program offers so many opportunities for the kids, first of all its a small environment, so its a lot more nurturing, we only take a hundred and fifty students per school year."
Theres something for every type of student at the home of the Cougars, whether theyre destined for the Ivy League or a NASCAR pit crew.
Earthquakes are rippling through Oklahoma more quickly than ever, and strong too: forty-six since the beginning of the month, as powerful as magnitude 5.0, NBC News reported.
Scientists say that wastewater from fracking is very likely triggering the tremors at unprecedented rates, but the rise in the oil-tapping process has been a boon for the state's economy roughly one quarter of jobs are tied to the energy industry.
Now stakeholders in the industry are in the midst of a reckoning over how to keep the ground from shaking, while many policymakers are careful to not implicate the energy industry directly.
"The oil and gas industry basically owns the state," said Oklahoma state Rep. Cory Williams (D-Stillwater). "Policymakers don't want to do anything that appears to harm the jobs created by the oil and gas sector."
What to Know The latest issue of the terror groups magazine says the parade would be an "excellent target" for terror
Officials say there has been no credible, specific threat to the parade or to the city on Thanksgiving
ISIS has taken credit for similar "lone-wolf" attacks in the past
Manhattan's Thanksgiving day parade would be "an excellent target" for a terror attack similar to the one carried out in France over the summer that killed dozens of people, ISIS said in its English-language magazine.
The latest edition of the magazine includes a virtual how-to on inflicting maximum casualties; it features a photo of the iconic parade with a caption espousing its merits as a target for terrorism.
Local and federal law enforcement officials in New York say there has been no credible, specific threat to the parade or the city on Thanksgiving.
John Miller, the NYPD's deputy commissioner of intelligence and counterterrorism, said that the department has had measures in place to stop potential car-based attacks on the parade for several years.
"This is not something that just occurred to us over the weekend (when the magazine was released)," he said.
He added, "Bottom line, come to the Thanksgiving day parade, have a good time, bring the family."
The terror group has taken credit for similar attacks in the past, including in Nice, France, in July, when Mohamed Salmene Lahouaiej-Bouhlel attacked people celebrating Bastille Day. Eighty-six people were killed and more than 400 others were hurt.
French police shot and killed Lahouaiej-Bouhlel immediately after the attack.
Miller said that after the attacks in Nice, police reached out to most of the truck rental businesses throughout the city to make sure employees there knew how to identify and report suspicous behavior.
ISIS has called for "lone-wolf" attacks in the city before. A propaganda video released by ISIS in 2015 featured shots of Times Square, but authorities at the time said there was no new threat to the city.
The head of the authority that runs the George Washington Bridge will ask for a review of testimony from the recently completed corruption trial in which a former authority executive was convicted of fraud and conspiracy.
Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Chairman John Degnan told The Record he will ask the agency's commissioners to form a committee to review the testimony. The Port Authority's next board meeting is scheduled for Thursday.
Two defendants, including former Port Authority Executive Director Bill Baroni, were convicted on Nov. 4 of purposely causing traffic jams near the bridge in September 2013 as part of an alleged political revenge scheme against a mayor who didn't endorse Republican New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.
Baroni was a top Christie appointee. Christie's former deputy chief of staff, Bridget Kelly, also was convicted. They have appealed their convictions.
A third person, former Port Authority official David Wildstein, pleaded guilty last year and testified against Baroni and Kelly. He was a political blogger and high school classmate of Christie's who was hired for a position created for him at the agency. Several authority officials testified Wildstein acted as Christie's enforcer.
Trial testimony described other potentially unethical behavior by authority officials that included the publication of a news release about the traffic jams that at least one official believed was false.
Wildstein's testimony depicted the Port Authority as a source of political favors used by Christie's office to try and gain political endorsements from Democratic mayors.
A White Plains police officer said Monday he "had no other option" but to fatally shoot a mentally ill black man because he believed the man was about to harm a police sergeant.
During testimony in White Plains federal court, Anthony Carelli said it was his responsibility to protect the other officers from Kenneth Chamberlain Sr. He said Chamberlain was "egging" police on with taunts to shoot him.
The deadly 2011 encounter at Chamberlain's apartment in suburban White Plains was a precursor to the national debate over use of force by police in communities of color and in response to calls involving emotionally disturbed people.
Carelli and the city of White Plains were sued by Chamberlain's family for $21 million. The lawsuit went forward after a grand jury declined to indict the white officer.
Lawyers for the officer and White Plains insist the shooting was justified, saying the officer used deadly force only as a last resort.
Chamberlain's son, Kenneth Chamberlain Jr., calls his father a victim of "systematic racism" by law enforcement.
Earlier Monday, according to The Journal News, a police sergeant testified that Carelli saved his life. Keith Martin said he thought he was "going to get stabbed" if Carelli hadn't shot Chamberlain during the standoff.
At the time of the shooting, Chamberlain was living alone and suffering from bipolar disorder, arthritis and respiratory illness, conditions that prompted his family to give him a LifeAid medical alert device in case he needed help.
On Nov. 19, 2011, Chamberlain accidentally set off the alert, prompting police to come to his door. In transcripts of recordings of the encounter captured by a LifeAid help center, he can be heard telling the officers he didn't want them there.
"Go home to your wives and children," he said.
As the officers persisted in trying to coax him into opening the door, Chamberlain sounded more agitated and disoriented, saying at one point that he was in touch with "the President and Vice President Biden."
Police say he poked a knife through a crack in the door, repeated, "honor, honor, honor" and then warned, "First one through the door, I'm gonna kill."
Backup officers, including Carelli, were called in to remove the door. Once inside, they sought to subdue Chamberlain with a stun gun and a bean bag weapon.
Carelli on Monday told the jury the bean bags "didn't incapacitate him at all." He said that when Chamberlain charged toward Martin with a butcher knife in hand he opened fire.
"At that point, I had no other option," Carelli testified. "... All I could do was save Sgt. Martin's life."
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This story corrects to show the spelling of Kenneth Chamberlain Sr., instead of Camberlain in first reference
What to Know Jorge Luis Hoayeck is expected to be arraigned Monday on drug smuggling charges after being brought to the city on Thursday
Authorities said he and a co-conspirator hatched a plan to ship cocaine aboard a historic Spanish navy ship in 2014
When the ship returned to Spain, authorities there conducted a search and found 127 kilograms of cocaine hidden in a storeroom.
One of the two Colombian men accused of using a historic ship nicknamed "the floating embassy of Spain" to sail cocaine from South America to New York City has been extradited to Manhattan to face charges, prosecutors said.
Jorge Luis Hoayeck is expected to be arraigned Monday on drug smuggling charges after being brought to the city on Thursday, according to the Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor for New York City. His alleged accomplice, Jorge Alberto Siado-Alvarez, is also expected to be extradited from Colombia to the Empire State in the near future.
Authorities said the two men allegedly ran a drug cartel and paid two crew members aboard the Juan Sebasian de Elcano -- a 371-foot steel-hulled, four-masted schooner built by Spain in 1927 for training purposes -- to ferry drugs to New York City in April and May 2014.
Authorities say the two crew members were paid about $32,000 to hide the drugs on the boat during a voyage to Manhattan. When the boat docked on Manhattan's west side on May 14, 2014, the two crew members allegedly traveled to the Bronx to deliver the cocaine to dealers for the cartel.
Authorities say that two days later DEA agents and NYPD officers along with and state police moved and made seven arrests as the drugs were being moved through Stamford, Connecticut. More drugs and weapons were found at the Bronx safehouse.
Prosecutors allege that Hoayeck and Siado-Alvarez came up with the plan to use the Spanish ship to smuggle 8 kilos of cocaine. Investigators said both men are heard on a wiretap discussing the plan.
When the ship returned to Spain, authorities there conducted a search and found 127 kilograms of cocaine hidden in a storeroom.
In 2014 after visiting France, Italy and Morocco, it crossed the Atlantic to visit Colombia, the Dominican Republic and New York.
If convicted, the men could face up to life in prison. Information on their attorneys wasn't immediately available.
What to Know A swastika was spray-painted outside of a 78-year-old man's home in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, over the weekend
Photos of the swastika were posted on Twitter and police released images of a suspect in the case
There have been similar incidents across the U.S. since Trump was elected, but cops don't know what motivated the spray-painter in Brooklyn
Swastikas, "No Jews" and other anti-Semitic and racist messages have been spray-painted on streets, buildings and sidewalks across the tri-state in recent days, authorities said.
Authorities in New York City, White Plains and Ramapo, New Jersey, said they are investigating several instances of racially and religiously targeted vandalism in the last several days.
In Brooklyn, a suspect spray-painted a swastika in front of a 78-year-old man's home near Montgomery Street and Brooklyn Avenue in Crown Heights.
Rabbi Mordechai Lightstone tweeted a photo of the swastika on Sunday morning.
Swastika spray painted on Montgomery St in heart of Jewish Crown Heights, Lightstone wrote, adding that it wasnt the first to appear in the neighborhood.
All the shots I took earlier of the swastika at Montgomery and Brooklyn in Crown Heights. pic.twitter.com/7Sf1zRAPAJ Mordechai Lightstone (@Mottel) November 13, 2016
On Sunday, the mayors office referenced Lightstones message and tweeted that acts of violence in our beautifully diverse city will not be tolerated. We are all better than this.
Several hours after photos of the swastika were posted, a Twitter user uploaded a video of someone spray-painting over what appeared to be the same swastika.
Swastikas were also discovered on four dorm rooms at the New School in Manhattan. No arrests were reported in those incidents. The NYPD's Hate Crime Task Force is investigating.
And in White Plains, authorities are looking for the vandal or vandals who scrawled anti-Semitic and racist messages onto a bike path at the Bronx River Pathway. Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino is expected to release more information on the vandalism on Monday afternoon.
Gov. Cuomo has ordered investigations into two episodes in the last week of alleged hate crimes.
In an instance further upstate, a swastika and "Make America White Again" were scrawled onto a wall at a softball field in Wellsville, New York, last week.
In the other, a swastika along with the word "Trump" was found in the common area of a dorm at SUNY Geneseo.
There's also been at least one instance of anti-Semitic graffiti in New Jersey in recent days. Police in Ramapo said that vandals spray-painted "No Jews" in front of a pair of houses for sale on Carteret Drive early on Monday.
Authorities responding to the properties found the messages in orange paint on the roadway by "for sale" signs. Later, officers found the same message on another real estate sign nearby.
There have been similar incidents across the U.S. in the wake of the presidential election. Most of the cases appear to involve graffiti or violence directed at racial or ethnic minorities and in some reports the perpetrators indicated support for President-elect Donald Trump. Some of the cases were reported by police, but many more appeared on social media as anecdotes and not all have been verified.
No evidence has been found linking the swastika in Brooklyn to supporters of Trump.
Calls had been growing for Trump to speak out against the string of hateful incidents since his election. During a 60 Minutes interview that aired Sunday, Trump looked at the camera and said that any supporters of his who are harassing people or destroying property should stop it.
On CNNs State of the Union Sunday, House Speaker Paul Ryan said that people painting hateful graffiti in the wake of the election are not Republicans and we don't want them in our party.
The NYPD asks anyone with information about the swastika in Brooklyn to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS.
What to Know Richard Rosario was arrested after two witnesses identified him as the man who shot a 17-year-old in the head in June 1996
No forensic or physical evidence tied Rosario to the crime, and he said he had been staying with friends in Florida at the time
Rosario was released from prison in March, but authorities held off fully clearing him as they reinvestigated the case
The New York City man imprisoned for 20 years for a killing he said he didn't come within 1,000 miles of committing got the case dismissed Monday, though he didn't get the vindication he wanted.
Richard Rosario had already been freed in March, after prosecutors agreed his former lawyers hadn't done enough to find some 13 alibi witnesses, making his trial unfair. After reinvestigating the 1996 murder case, prosecutors said in June they were ready to drop it because they no longer felt they could prove it, stopping short of declaring Rosario innocent.
Then Rosario made an unusual request: Keep the case open for more investigation, even though he'd still be under indictment meanwhile.
"The public should know the truth," he said at the time. "It's clear that I'm innocent."
Rosario, 41, had told police early on that 13 people could vouch that he was staying in Deltona, Florida, when Jorge "George" Collazo was killed after an exchange of words on a Bronx street. No forensic or physical evidence tied Rosario to the crime, but two witnesses identified him from a police photo book as the man who'd shot the 17-year-old Collazo in the head.
Two of Rosario's alibi witnesses did testify, but his lawyers say others could have buttressed his defense significantly. His initial attorneys didn't talk to them, even though a judge had approved money to send a private investigator to Florida to find them.
After a surprised Bronx State Supreme Court Justice Robert Torres agreed in June to leave the case open, Rosario sought a ruling saying that newfound evidence would likely have changed the verdict in his favor, not just that his ex-lawyers erred.
Torres turned Rosario down last week. The denial forecloses him from seeking one particular form of wrongful-conviction compensation, though he could sue to seek other compensation.
Regardless, Rosario is glad to be free of the case, said lawyer Chip Loewenson.
"For 20 years, he had the murder conviction and then a murder indictment hanging over his head, and now it's done," said Loewenson, who worked on the case with attorneys from the Exoneration Initiative.
Collazo's relatives have decried Rosario's bid to be cleared.
"You were never proven innocent. Let's just get it straight," the victim's father and namesake told Rosario outside court in June.
Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark vowed Monday to keep working on the case.
Collazo's family "deserves certainty and justice," Clark said in a statement.
The case, which has been featured in a "Dateline" digital series on NBCNews.com, is among more than 25 convictions from New York City's high-crime 1980s and '90s that prosecutors have disavowed in the last five years.
Poroshenko: Ukraine is ready for effective cooperation with new administrations of Moldova, Bulgaria
Kyiv is ready to work with the administrations of Moldovan and Bulgaria elected by the people of these countries, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said.
"In any case, we are ready for effective cooperation with both Moldova and Bulgaria," Poroshenko told reporters in Stockholm, responding to a question about the victory of candidates supporting cooperation with Russia in the elections in Moldova and Bulgaria.
He also said he is hoping that "the irresponsible discussions that took place during these campaigns will not be implemented after the elections."
"It don't like it when we call different countries or their politicians pro-Russian. I am confident that politicians should be pro-European, pro-Moldovan, pro-Bulgarian. Those are the positions we expect from them," Poroshenko said.
After a mob-style attack in Center City Philadelphia injured an off-duty officer, his wife and four others, Philadelphia Police Commissioner Richard Ross took aim at the group of teens suspected in the case.
"It's just stupid, there's no other way to describe it," said Ross Monday morning.
A large crowd of teens were at a club along the 1600 block of Walnut Street -- just a couple blocks from Rittenhouse Square -- around 6:10 p.m. Saturday. A smaller group of teens in the crowd then began to attack random people in the area.
"They said it was unprovoked," a witness, who did not want to be identified, told NBC10. "They didn't say anything and they just found themselves getting beat up. It was scary."
A 55-year-old Philadelphia police detective, who was off-duty at the time and with his 53-year-old wife, spotted the teens attacking a 21-year-old man, police said. As the detective walked toward them, the teens fled the area. The detective began walking back to where his wife was when he spotted more teens attack two young men in their 20s, according to investigators.
The detective announced he was a police officer and tried to arrest one of the teens who was kicking the two men. As the detective grabbed the teen he was punched from behind by several other attackers, police said. The detective's wife splashed water on the teens in order to stop them. One of the attackers then punched the woman in the face, police said. All of the teen attackers then fled the area.
"He got seriously hurt doing so but he did his job, we're very proud of him," said Ross.
The detective suffered an orbital fracture to his right eye. The man and his wife, who also suffered minor injuries, were both taken to Jefferson Hospital for treatment. Three other people suffered minor injuries during the attack.
"We looked and we saw people who had obviously been beaten up," the witness told NBC10. "They were bleeding from their heads. We saw at least three people that were like that."
Immediately following the attack on 1600 Walnut Street a 28-year-old man was attacked by several teens on 100 S. 16th Street. Responding police officers then arrested two 16-year-old boys.
"You got people getting assaulted and that should not happen, it's ridiculous behavior," said Ross.
More arrests could come as investigators poured over surveillance video, said Ross who noted that the teens are old enough to know right from wrong.
"Some people want to indict the parents but I talk about personal responsibility, these are kids old enough to know better and not do something like that," said Ross.
"They should be absolutely held accountable for what they did and there's no excuse for it," said Ross.
Ross said he hopes the incident was an "anomaly" but that police would "respond accordingly" with Center City patrols.
A Los Angeles substitute teacher is accused of telling sixth-graders their parents would be deported in the wake of Tuesday's presidential election.
An audio recording of the exchange captured at Bret Harte Middle School in South Los Angeles by a student's cell phone is under review by the Los Angeles Unified School District. The conversation occurred a day after billionaire businessman Donald Trump defeated former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in the race for president.
A mother of one of the students told NBC4 Southern California that she expected some backlash after Trump made a hard-line stance on deportation part of his campaign from the time he announced his candidacy last year.
"I would think the kids would do it, but I never thought a teacher would do it," said Jennifer Reynaga.
The Reynaga family shared the audio with NBC4 and sister station Telemundo 52. On the recording, an individual can be heard telling Reynaga's 11-year-old daughter, "If you were born here, then your parents got to go. Then they will leave you behind, and you will be in foster care."
Reynaga said her daughter asked the physical education substitute teacher how the president-elect knows where her family lives.
"I have your phone numbers, your address, your mama's address, your daddy's address. It's all in the system, sweetie," the person says in the recording.
LAUSD officials said they declined to comment on pending personnel matters. Reynaga and her husband said they met with school officials and were told the substitute teacher has been fired.
Immigration was a key component of Trump's campaign, and his win Tuesday led Los Angeles immigration rights advocates to offer reassurances Thursday to the city's undocumented immigrant community.
"You have scared children," said Steve Zimmer, board president of the Los Angeles Unified School District. "One of most important things you can do is make sure that children who have qualified for DACA know that they are safe and their status is secure."
DACA, which stands for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, went into effect in 2012. It allows certain people who came to the United States as children to request permits to stay in the United States that are renewable every two years, provided they meet guidelines.
Trump has vowed to deport people convicted of serious crimes who are in the United States illegally. In a September speech, then candidate Trump promised a more hard-line approach to a crowd of Arizona supporters.
"There will be no amnesty," Trump said. "Our message to the world will be this: You cannot obtain legal status or become a citizen of the United States by illegally entering our country."
Los Angeles County has an undocumented immigrant population estimated as high as 800,000, about 12 percent of the county's 10 million residents, according to the Public Policy Institute of California.
The agency estimates that nearly 40 percent of adult undocumented immigrants live with children who were born in the United States. An estimated 13 percent of K-12 students in California have a parent who is an undocumented immigrant, according to PPIC.
A Mexican immigrant who had been living in northeast Philadelphia has relocated to a local church where he is now seeking sanctuary from deportation by federal authorities.
Juntos, a south Philadelphia immigrant support group, says 40-year-old Javier Flores moved into Arch Street United Methodist Church on Sunday.
"People are afraid. We've never seen this amount of hatred and vitriol towards our community," said Miguel Andrade, who works at Juntos.
The father of three U.S.-born children is eligible for a "U-Visa," which the federal government provides to victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse.
If Flores' visa application is denied, he will be deported after 90 days. Flores recently spent 16 months at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Detention Center in Pike County, according to Juntos.
He was detained because he was previously deported but returned to the United States to reunite with his family. [[401056395, C]]
Immigration attorneys across the country are figuring out how to navigate a "scary, uncertain environment" in the wake of Donald Trump's election, American Immigration Lawyers Association executive director Benjamin Johnson told NBC last week. He said he's advising the D.C. organization's more than 14,000 members to prepare their clients for the worst Trump has promised to deport millions of undocumented immigrants.
Juntos is advocating for President Barack Obama to shut down his deportation program so it won't pass on to Trump.
"If we can provide some sense of hope and relief in saying that this is an act that people can do and to stand up against a government that is actively trying to destroy their families, I hope that more people will do this," Andrade said at the Arch Street church.
Another immigrant was successful in seeking reprieve from deportation in the Philadelphia area in January 2015. Angela Navarro lived at the West Kensington Ministry with her husband, an American citizen, and two U.S-born children in order to avoid deportation to Honduras more than 10 years after being picked up while entering the country without documents.
On the year anniversary of the Paris terrorist attacks that left 130 dead, Cal State Long Beach Sunday will honor Nohemi Gonzalez, the only American killed in the attacks.
Gonzalez, a 23-year-old El Monte resident studying abroad in Paris, was killed while eating with friends at a popular bistro in Paris called La Belle Equipe.
She was one of 17 students studying at Strate College of Design in Paris.
The terror attacks killed 130 people at Paris restaurants, a music hall and a stadium outside the city.
Since the attacks, Gonzalez has been awarded a posthumous degree, and a $100,000 design scholarship has been created in her honor.
The tree-planting ceremony honoring Gonzalez took place at 12:30 p.m. Sunday at the Department of Design on the Cal State Long Beach campus.
"It's still hard to believe what happened," her mother Beatriz Gonzalez told NBC4.
"I never say my daughter died. She just passed away."
Wearing the last piece of jewelry her daughter had on that night, Beatriz said her daughter is gone but will never be forgotten,
Her family said the university was her extended home.
"Since she was a little girl, she wanted to live in school. Now she's going to be here forever," Beatriz said.
When the leaves turn red, it will be a sign from Nohemi, Beatriz says, since that was her favorite color.
"It's going to be a very long wait ... but I'm going to get to see her one more time."
This article is sponsored by Sharp HealthCare. It does not reflect the work or opinions of NBC San Diegos editorial staff. To learn more about Sharp HealthCare, click here.
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A San Diego-based cyber-security company CEO has resigned after social media posts threatening President-elect Donald Trump were reported to the U.S. Secret Service, the company statement confirmed Monday.
Twitter and Facebook accounts tied to Matthew Harrigan, the President & CEO of PacketSled, included comments threatening Trump Sunday afternoon, according to an NBC 7 source.
Im going to kill the president. Elect, was one of the posts on Harrigans Twitter account. It was followed by the comment, Bring it secret service.
getting a sniper rifle and perching myself where it counts, reads a post to Harrigans Facebook account. Find a bedroom in the whitehouse [sic] that suits you motherf---er. Ill find you.
In an official statement, PacketSled attributed the comments to Harrigan and said they are taking the situation seriously.
On Tuesday morning, it was announced that Harrigan resigned and the company's board of directors had accepted his resignation.
Once we were made aware of these comments, we immediately reported this information to the secret service and will cooperate fully with any inquiries, the companys statement reads. These comments do not reflect the views or opinions of PacketSled, its employees, investors or partners. Our CEO has been placed on administrative leave.
On Harrigans Twitter account, he posted three comments apologizing for the previous posts.
It is illegal to knowingly and willfully threaten to kill, kidnap, or inflict bodily harm upon the president-elect, vice-president elect or their families. Anyone convicted of doing so faces five years in prison and fines.
NBC 7 has reached out to San Diego Police and the local FBI office to ask if Harrigan is facing any charges.
Check back for updates on this developing story.
Trial began Monday for a Tierrasanta woman implicated in a February 2016 crash that killed one girl and seriously injured another.
Julianne Little, 30, faces gross vehicular manslaughter and hit and run with serious injury charges for the death of 10-year-old Raquel Rosete and the injury of Rosetes friend, 12-year-old Mekayla Lee.
San Diego police said Little swerved off the road, up the curb and into the girls as they were walking along the sidewalk at about 6 p.m. on February 20 in the area of Santo Road near Shields Street.
Lee testified in court that neither Rosete or her had heard the car approaching them.
Littles defense attorney Anna Yum said her client fell asleep at the wheel and was not texting at the time of the crash.
At a pretrial hearing, San Diego police Officer Jason Costanza testified he noticed an outgoing phone call and text from Little's phone at the time of the accident.
"It said, 'I'm going to miss you, my friend,'" Costanza said.
Both prosecutors and defense attorneys said Little sent that text at 22 seconds after 5:56 p.m.
The defense told the jury Little sent the text while sitting at a red light at Aero Drive and Santo Road. After Little sent the text, Yum said, the traffic signal turned green.
A 911 call from a passerby registered with the CHP at eight seconds after 6 p.m., according to the prosecutor.
At 6:02 p.m., Little's phone connected to her house wifi, the prosecutor said.
"There is not one single phone call for help," she told jurors.
One jogger and another driver found the girls in the bushes off the bike lane. Rosete suffered a brain injury and passed away after the crash. Lee suffered a fractured ankle, concussion, and abrasions along her back.
Under cross-examination, the jogger testified she called 911 from her at 5:58 p.m. and had been on the scene two or three minutes before she made the call.
Little told investigators that she fell asleep at the wheel. She left the scene but later returned with her father.
Her attorney said the defendant was not aware that she struck anyone when her car went off the road.
She was initially arrested on suspicion of being under the influence of drugs, but now investigators said there was no evidence of impairment.
Little is facing charges of gross vehicular manslaughter and felony hit and run.
Around 70 firefighters worked hard throughout the day Sunday to fully contain a brush fire along I-15 and Gopher Canyon Road. It's been a busy week for firefighters; this is just one of several vegetation fires across the county. Very warm and dry conditions have not been helping. Crews were attacking from the air and ground as the brush fire quickly grew to around 28 acres. "At the peak of the fire there were eight homes that were considered threatened. None of them were evacuated. We have resources at each home and engaged in structure protection," said Cal Fire spokesman Isaac Sanchez said.
Traffic on I-15 near Gopher Canyon Road was at a standstill for more than an hour. CALTRANS closed lanes after a power pole with power lines stretched across the freeway was damaged. It's one of many vegetation fires within the last week. Sanchez added, this appears to be our new normal right now. San Diego County is extremely dry, it's ready to burn. Normally by now we've gotten a little bit of rain, that simply hasn't happened."
A brush fire erupted on Thursday in Mission Valley. Several apartments were just feet away. Neighbors were taking in every moment until crews were able to get it under control. Also, on Thursday, there was a fire in a residential area of Julian. On Saturday, there was another brush fire along Interstate 163 and Genesee. Fire crews know that high fire season is nowhere near being done. Sunday's fire north of Escondido is a perfect example. "We're still sitting on the conditions that we were sitting on in the beginning of the summer. Excessively dry dead fuel and all it needs is a spark," said Sanchez.
One firefighter was taken to the hospital with a shoulder injury. That firefighter has since been released will be okay. Crews are expected to be at the scene through Monday evening checking for hot spots and to make sure this fire is completely out.
President-elect Donald Trump said during the campaign that he would scrap or renegotiate the Iranian nuclear deal, but leaders there said they expected the U.S. to stick to its agreement, NBC News reported.
"The results of the U.S. election have no effect on the policies of the Islamic Republic of Iran," Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said one day after the election, according to the state news agency IRNA. Rouhani added that improved economic ties are "irreversible."
Iranian leaders emphasized that the nuclear deal was not a bilateral agreement, but was also reached with China, Russia, France, Germany and the U.K.
"Every U.S. president has to understand the realities of today's world," said Foreign Minister Mohammed Javad Zarif, one of the architects of the deal. "The most important thing is that the future U.S. president sticks to agreements."
Sanctions against the Russian Federation must be extended if Russian troops remain in Ukrainian territory, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has said.
"If the Minsk agreements are not followed, Russian soldiers remain on the territory of Ukraine and observers of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe do not have access to the occupied territories, if there is no cessation of fire and withdrawal of heavy weapons, if [Russians] continue to kill Ukrainians then sanctions must remain," Poroshenko said following talks with Swedish Premier Stefan Lofven on Monday in Stockholm.
Ukraine's head of state also said Ukraine has recommended the European Union extend sanctions for 12 months, not six months, next year.
"I think it will be effective if sanctions are extended not for six months, but for a full year. We have already conveyed this recommendation to our EU partners," Poroshenko said.
He added that sanctions must be in place until Russia complies with the Minsk agreements.
Responding to a question on extending sanctions following the U.S. presidential elections, Poroshenko said, "These sanctions are connected with the Minsk agreements."
"Ukraine received substantive support from the U.S.: there were clear statements from both the Republican and Democratic parties to the effect that the only reason for lifting the sanctions is full observance of the Minsk agreements, the withdrawal of forces and restoration of control of the Ukrainian border," Poroshenko said.
A federal contractor bilked the National Security Agency and the U.S. Office of Personnel Management for about $70,000 by doctoring his time sheets and collecting money for hours he didnt work, according to court documents.
Daniel Glauber was scheduled to enter a plea agreement on the charges in Washington, D.C., Monday.
The OPM, which oversees the U.S. federal workforce, was unaware Glauber was working for the NSA during his employment with OPM, court filings from attorneys said. The NSA was unaware Glauber was working for OPM during his employment with NSA, the filing said.
According to a filing from federal prosecutors, the scheme was executed in 2012.
(Glauber), in most instances during this time period, generally would start his day by working approximately four to six hours at NSA and then approximately two to four hours at OPM," prosecutors said. "(Glauber) would submit fraudulent time sheets often claiming that he worked more hours at each agency.
In their filings, prosecutors said Glauber submitted time sheets indicating he had worked at OPM on at least 17 days when he did not show at the OPM worksite.
Glaubers attorney did not immediately return requests for comment.
According to prosecutors filings, the Office of Personnel Management notified the NSA that Glauber was under investigation.
A grand jury has indicted a driver accused of hitting and killing an infant in Virginia as his mother pushed his stroller in a crosswalk.
John Miller IV, 45, was charged with one count of involuntary manslaughter, one count of reckless driving and one count of failure to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk for the fatal collision on Aug. 31.
Tristan Schulz and his mother, Mindy Schulz, were crossing Riverside Parkway in Lansdowne, Virginia, when they were struck.
Five-month-old Tristan died at a hospital. His mother was released from the hospital the next day.
A teenager, who was driving behind the Jeep SUV, told police he could see the driver was "holding a phone in his left hand, as if he was watching or reading something," court documents said.
The witness also said the Jeep was tailgating the vehicle in front of him, and it appeared the driver was trying to get ahead of the mother with the stroller, speeding up fast, as if to go in front of her. As Mindy Schultz crossed with Tristan, the "walk" sign was illuminated, according to the witness.
One mother who lives in the area told News4 she is happy Miller is facing serious charges.
"I think that whatever charge they have given to him he deserves because, you know, it's no excuse to be, like, be on the phone and driving at the same time," said Claudia Villatorio.
Flowers once stacked high at a memorial to Tristan at the intersection where he was struck have since been replaced with pumpkins and mums. Residents said the community has not forgotten the tragedy.
"I think because it was a baby and because I mean it really did shake and shock the neighborhood," said Lansdowne resident Caroline Hedges. "Everyone is more vigilant about slowing down."
On Tuesday, a judge set a $10,000 personal recognizance bond. Miller was processed and then left the courthouse with his lawyer.
A man accused of shooting and killing a 3-year-old girl will be in court Monday.
Davon "Dro" Wallace was charged with murder in the death of Knijah Amore Bibb, 3, of northwest Washington. Police said Bibb died after Wallace fired into a home in Prince Georges County, Maryland, in August, striking and killing the girl.
Investigators said Wallaces intended target, a boy in his late teens, was not inside the home at the time of the shooting. They said the incident began over an argument about clothing inside the home in the 6900 block of Forest Terrance Drive.
Wallace was on the run for more than a month before being arrested in September in southeast Washington. Brian Ray Campbell, 24, of Landover, Maryland, was arrested shortly after the shooting for allegedly giving a gun and a ride to Wallace during his flight.
A Maryland man accused of running over his wife with his car has pleaded guilty, prosecutors say.
Charles County State's Attorney Tony Covington announced in a statement Monday that Bryan Weyhenmayer, 33 pleaded guilty last week to first-degree murder in the 2014 death of his wife, 36-year-old Jennifer Weyhenmeyer.
Officials said that Jennifer Weyhenmeyer called 911 and reported she was in a car with Bryan Weyhenmeyer and that he had threatened her. The call ended abruptly and police found her dead 10 minutes later in the parking lot of a Pizza Hunt in Waldorf.
Officials said that she had been run over multiple times.
Police arrested Weyhenmeyer after he barricaded himself in their home. Officials said they found his wife's blood and hair on their car.
Jennifer Weyhenmeyer was a mother and stepmother who was pursuing a degree in social work, her obituary says.
Weyhenmeyer faces 30 to 45 years in prison at sentencing in March, officials say.
A man registered as a sex offender attacked two little girls in the women's restroom of a restaurant in Ashburn, Virginia, police say.
Luis F. Ore, 20, was arrested Sunday after the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office said he sexually assaulted two girls in the women's restroom of Elevation Burger, in the One Loudoun shopping center. He worked at the restaurant, the company confirmed.
The victims are under age 13, police said.
Ore, of Sterling, followed the girls into the restroom, held them against their will and sexually assaulted them, police said.
Ore was arrested at his workplace, police said Monday.
Ore's listing in the Virginia Sex Offender Registry categorizes him as violent and says he was convicted in July 2012 of the abduction and sexual battery of a minor.
After the attack Sunday, Ore was charged with two counts of abduction and two counts of sexual assault of a person under age 13. He is being held without bond at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center.
The Elevation Burger franchise expressed its "heartfelt concern" for the victims, a statement from the company said.
"Our customers and communities are our priority and, without equivocation, the arrested employee was immediately terminated. Elevation Burger is currently investigating the internal processes for which he was hired," the statement said.
Chlamydia, the most commonly reported sexually transmitted disease in America, has its highest rates in Maryland within the University of Maryland College Parks zip code, according to a report by The Diamondback, the universitys independent student newspaper.
The state ranked 20th in the nation in chlamydial infections, and reported rates of chlamydia among women were 2.3 times greater than those among men, according to a 2015 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene reported 6,153 cases of chlamydia in Prince Georges County, topped only by Baltimore City (6,728). Mapping by zip codes showed the University of Marylands area had a chlamydia rate of more than 800 cases per 100,000 population.
Jenna Beckwith, sexual health programs coordinator for the University Health Center on College Parks campus, told The Diamondback there are several reasons for the increased rate in that area. She said the large population on campus, disproportionate effect of sexually transmitted infections on young adults under 25, increased risk-taking and feelings of invincibility and a lack of through education and conversations about the disease contribute to the high rate.
"Many college students are surprised to learn that every single STI can be passed through oral sex," Beckwith told The Diamondback.
"It's probably most common because of high rates of sexual activity, particularly with multiple partners or more than one, even if they're spaced out," Bradley Boekeloo, a professor in the school of public health and director of the Prevention Research Center, told the student newspaper.
The University of Maryland Medical Center has more information about symptoms and testing. Because many people with chlamydia may not have symptoms, they said sexually active adults should be screened periodically for the infection.
Singapore & Tokyo, 14 November 2016 - NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) and NEC Asia Pacific announced today their participation in the Singapore FinTech Festival's conference and exhibition, held 16-17 November 2016 at the Singapore EXPO. The Festival, organised by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), in partnership with the Association of Banks in Singapore (ABS), will bring together a series of distinct FinTech events for the global FinTech community. At the event, NEC will showcase business concepts which will drive the digital innovation of financial services, while introducing the latest development of its Blockchain technology. NEC will also demonstrate secure facial recognition technology for mobile authentication. It combines NEC's world's most accurate facial recognition algorithm * with encryption software that enables hardware-level anti-tamper capabilities in order to deliver enhanced user experience and security for mobile authentication in banking applications. For the first time in Southeast Asia, NEC will showcase its cashless payment service utilizing facial recognition, without using cards or cash. NEC conducted cashless payment trials ** in Japan from June to August 2016 as a part of its initiatives to apply its biometrics authentication technologies to a range of services. As a result, NEC hopes to enhance the reliability and convenience of the identification process. Daichi Iwata, Head of the FinTech Business Development Office, Business Innovation Unit, NEC Corporation said, "NEC is pleased to be a part of the inaugural Singapore Fintech Festival showcasing our range of innovative technologies and solution offerings to customers. At NEC, our FinTech services address important social issues such as financial inclusion and safe banking practices, thereby creating a safer and more secure society." Ken Hanazawa, Head of Research for Biometrics and Behavior Analysis, Central Research Laboratories, NEC Corporation, is participating in a panel to discuss authentication and advanced sensors on 16 November.
About NEC Corporation
NEC Corporation is a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies that benefit businesses and people around the world. By providing a combination of products and solutions that cross utilize the company's experience and global resources, NEC's advanced technologies meet the complex and ever-changing needs of its customers. NEC brings more than 100 years of expertise in technological innovation to empower people, businesses and society. For more information, visit NEC at http://www.nec.com.
The NEC Group globally provides "Solutions for Society" that promote the safety, security, efficiency and equality of society. Under the company's corporate message of "Orchestrating a brighter world," NEC aims to help solve a wide range of challenging issues and to create new social value for the changing world of tomorrow. For more information, please visit
http://www.nec.com/en/global/about/vision/message.html
NEC is a registered trademark of NEC Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Other product or service marks mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners. NEC Corporation.
About NEC Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd.
Singapore-based NEC Asia Pacific (NEC APAC) is the regional headquarters for NEC Corporation (HQ: Japan) in the Asia Pacific region (South and Southeast Asia and Oceania). As a leading information and communications technology provider, NEC APAC provides innovative solutions and infrastructure to promote safety, security and enhance the quality of life for individuals and the community. NEC APAC's expertise includes solutions for carrier networks, biometric identification, enterprise applications and infrastructure, unified communications, transportation solutions, multimedia displays and smart energy, as well as the provision of managed services and contact centre services.
Our regional competency centres, together with our research laboratories, provide cutting-edge public safety, cybersecurity technologies and enterprise solutions to enable safer cities, with a vision to create a brighter future. For more information, please visit http://sg.nec.com.
A Massachusetts town is hoping to delay the opening on recreational marijuana dispensaries by voting on the issue.
Ashland's town manager says there will be a special meeting in two weeks, which is when the vote will take place.
The temporary hold has been proposed by the Board of Selectmen, which is asking for a year to study the potential regulation and zoning issues that come with dispensaries.
Town Manager Michael Herbert says the town's board wants to make the right decision without placing a permanent ban on dispensaries.
"We want to make sure that dispensaries are located in places that are away from," schools and family-related activities, Herbert said.
Ashland was nearly split on Question 4 this election season, and it was passed by about 350 votes.
The question of whether or not they want it sold in their town is another issue, though.
Police say two men who tried to rob a Springfield, Massachusetts, convenience store ran way empty handed after the clerk wrested their gun away.
Lt. Richard LaBelle tells Masslive.com the suspects entered the Express Mini-Mart at about 11:45 p.m. Sunday. One was armed with a cut-down rifle.
The clerk grabbed the gun and the suspects ran from the store. Police with dogs searched the area but could not locate the men.
The clerk gave police a detailed description of the suspects. One was described as Hispanic, about 5-foot, 7-inches tall and 180 pounds, wearing a red jacket with blue stripes, jeans and sneakers. The second suspect was black, about the same height and weight, wearing a black jacket and black pants.
A Florida man facing accessory charges in connection with a fatal shooting Massachusetts has refused to waive extradition from South Carolina.
Michael Arthur Noguera, 47, of Lehigh Acres was ordered to be held without bail in South Carolina as the Bristol district attorney's office in Massachusetts obtains a warrant for him to return to the Bay State to face charges.
The process could take several weeks, according to officials.
Once in Massachusetts, Noguera will be arraigned on several charges, including accessory to murder after the fact, in connection with the shooting death of Daniel G. Smith, 35, who was found suffering from gunshot wounds in Easton. He died from his injuries on Friday.
Investigators are still seeking the publics assistance in locating a red 2016 Mazda 3 sedan with Florida license plate tag number 372QQK, believed to be connected to the case.
Mykola Chaus, a judge from Kyiv's Darnytsky District Court, on November 11 was placed on Interpol's international wanted list, officials at Ukraine's National Anti-corruption Bureau (NABU) said.
"[Chaus] is suspected of committing a crime pursuant to Part 4 of Article 368 of Ukraine's Criminal Code (accepting, offering or promising a bribe)," NABU officials said.
As earlier reported, on August 9 agents from NABU with agents from the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) discovered Chaus had received a bribe of $150,000. The money was found in two glass jars, which Chaus dug in the yard of his residence.
Ukraine's Verkhovna Rada on September 6 supported the representation of the Prosecutor General's Office (PGO) to detain and arrest Chaus. Rada Speaker Andriy Parubiy immediately signed the bill.
SAPO the same day said Chaus had fled to Russian-occupied Crimea.
Kyiv's Solomyansky District Court on September 12 gave permission to arrest Chaus.
In early October 12 NABU Head Artem Sytnyk said it was possible Chaus could return to Ukraine. He added that the necessary documents to place him on the Interpol wanted list were being prepared.
NABU sent Interpol documents relating to the case on October 21.
A jogger hit by a vehicle last week in a New Hampshire crash has died.
Bedford police say 58-year-old Thomas Ducharme of Bedford died Saturday from his injuries.
Another jogger injured in Tuesday morning's crash, Gregory Uliasz, 58, of Bedford, has been released from the hospital.
Police say the driver of the sedan that hit Uliasz and Ducharme is a 16-year-old boy from Bedford whose name will not be released due to his age.
Alcohol doesn't appear to be a factor in the crash, but police are looking into whether frost on the driver's windshield may have played a role.
A smoky fire at a school in Lawrence, Massachusetts, prompted evacuations Monday morning.
Lawrence Fire says it happened at the Bruce School on Butler Street.
At first students were told to stay in their classrooms, but as the fire spread, they were all evacuated.
No one was injured, but the damage to the school's second floor is extensive.
It's unclear what caused the fire, which is still being investigated. Lawrence Fire says there's no indication at this point that it is suspicious.
It's likely classes for these students will be held at a different school Tuesday.
A Massachusetts man suffered an unknown medical condition and died while hiking in New Hampshire.
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department says 59-year-old James Norton died on Sunday while descending the 19 Mile Brook Trail in Bean's Purchase.
Officials say the Acton, Massachusetts, man was part of a Boy Scout troop taking part in a weekend hiking trip. The group had hiked up to the Appalachian Mountain Club's Carter Notch Hut on Saturday afternoon, spent the night at the hut and was going back down the trail when Norton collapsed.
Officials say members of the hiking group immediately started CPR and called 911.
A National Guard helicopter crew was called in to rescue Norton. Despite the efforts of the hiking group and first responders, he did not survive.
A Maine woman has been charged with intentionally driving her car into a tractor-trailer truck and causing a crash in Woolwich.
The Sagadahoc County Sheriff's Office says 36-year-old Sandra Francis, of Damariscotta, faces charges that include driving to endanger and reckless conduct with a dangerous weapon in the crash last week on U.S. Route 1.
Sheriff Joel Merry says the tractor-trailer driven by 66-year-old Robert Martin, of Sunapee, New Hampshire, was traveling south when Francis's vehicle traveling north veered directly into its path.
Merry says Martin made every attempt to avoid the collision and ended up wedged against a line of guardrails. He wasn't hurt.
Francis was hospitalized with injuries not considered life-threatening. She's due in court Jan. 10. It wasn't immediately known if she has an attorney.
Vermont State Police are releasing more information about what led to a murder-suicide in Shaftsbury and how it happened.
The bodies of 38-year-old Trevor Gardner and 28-year-old Olanda Fitz were found Friday. Gardner, who was from Hoosick Falls, New York, was found in his truck, while Fitz, who was from Shaftsbury, was found in the yard.
Police said Monday that Gardner drove to Fitz's home because he was angry that his girlfriend was involved with Fitz. Investigators believe Gardner shot Fitz before shooting himself.
An autopsy confirmed that Fitz died of a gunshot wound to the chest. Gardner died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.
A rifle was recovered in the truck with Gardner's body. No weapons were found on Fitz or near his body.
Massachusetts police are investigating the deaths of two men in Ayer.
The Middlesex District Attorney's Office said officers arrived at the home on Atherton Street at about 2:30 p.m. to do a well-being check. Authorities said the two men, ages 50 and 29, both from Ayer, were found dead.
The district attorney's office said there is no suspicion of foul play as the men's deaths are not considered suspicious.
A young woman exercising on a New Hampshire trail fought off an attacker police say is still on the loose.
It happened around 5:30 p.m. Sunday on a popular trail right across the street from Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center.
"I was shocked," said Lebanon resident John Andrew, who walks his dog on the path every day.
Police say a 23-year-old woman was out for a walk Sunday evening when a man attacked her from behind.
"I hope she cleaned his clock," Andrews said.
Police Chief Richard Mello says the woman put up a strong fight, forcing her attacker to take off running.
"I'm glad she got away and she's safe and I am proud that she stood up for herself," said Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center employee Sarah Stark.
The woman suffered only minor injuries and was able to contact hospital security right away. Police are still searching for the suspect who they say picked his victim at random.
"Certainly, when something like this happens, the randomness of it is concerning," Chief Mello admits.
By Monday morning, DHMC notified their employees many of whom run or walk this trail on their lunch break.
The hospital-wide email advised walkers to be alert, carry a whistle, and to avoid walking alone.
"It's a reminder of what can happen but luckily it doesnt happen often," said DHMC employee Elaine Vanderstok.
Police are looking at hospital security footage and asking anyone who was on the trail Sunday evening to give them a call.
Xbox One bundles can be had at a slew of big name retailers, from GameStop to Walmart, and what the deals lack in variety they make up for in being $50 cheaper than last year.
Xbox One bundles are generally going for $250 this holiday shopping season, $50 off the regular price and $50 off the going price last holiday season. (Compare vs. 2015 Xbox Black Friday deals here.)
But not all the deals are exactly alike, and if you shop around, youll find some are a bit better when you take into account gift cards and other goodies thrown into the packages.
MORE:
Kohls has one of the sweetest deals on the Xbox One S 500GB Minecraft console bundle, which costs $250 but also includes $75 in Kohls cash to spend later. The deal is available starting at 1pm Friday in stores and online.
Target comes close to this by offering the Xbox One S 500GB Battlefield 1 bundle with a $40 gift card.
Dell has quite the competitive offer too: An Xbox One S 500GB Battlefield 1 bundle, plus Gears of War 4 and an extra controller. Doorbuster deal available exclusively online, while supplies last, beginning at 9pm on Thanksgiving.
GameStop wont save you any extra money than the other retailers on the Xbox One S 500GB Games of War 4 bundle, which it is selling for $250. But you can get what it describes as an exclusive blue console and controller (Microsoft has actually branched out beyond black and white systems with a variety of limited edition colors).
Xbox One console in beautiful, sort of exclusive, blue
One mystery is exactly what Microsoft itself will offer, though a leaked preview of its Black Friday ad shows the company knocking the standard $50 off a bundle, but also tossing in a $25 gift code. Microsoft starts Black Friday offers first thing online on Thanksgiving Day.
These retailers are also offering Xbox One bundles at $250:
*Walmart: Xbox One S White 500GB Battlefield bundle
*Best Buy: Xbox One S 500GB Minecraft Favorites Console bundle or other Xbox bundles
*Costco: Xbox One S 500GB Minecraft Bundle. The Xbox bundle includes the Minecraft Favorites pack.
You might want one of these too: Dollar General is offering half off a 3-month Microsoft Xbox Live Gold membership card ($25).
(Hat Tip: Black Friday watchers such as BFads and Best Black Friday have been tracking new ads closely and we've been watching them closely.)
Trends in enterprise IT are an interesting thing. Can you think of any other industry where hype has its own lifecycle?
Whether it is because of the large budgets at stake or that enterprise IT professionals are uniquely susceptible to them, it seems the enterprise IT market is always awash in hot new trends. And as fast as they arise, most fizzle out.
At least from that perspective, the IT service management (ITSM) space has had a pretty good run. Its been over 20 years since the British government first introduced Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL), creating the ITSM market.
And almost since the beginning, people have been predicting its demise.
ITSMs death, however, has been greatly exaggerated. The more than 1,600 people attending last weeks FUSION conference at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas can attest to the fact that ITSM is alive and kicking.
Produced by itSMF USA and HDI, FUSION is the industrys premier service management conference.
While the large, international audience at FUSION demonstrated ITSMs continued relevance, it was also apparent that the industry is rapidly evolving to keep pace with the larger enterprise IT market.
Evolving ITSM beyond ITIL
Most striking was the almost complete absence of the word ITIL from the conference. Out of well over 100 concurrent sessions, only three referenced the industry framework. While there was some focus on traditional ITSM process domains, there was just as great a focus on areas as diverse as DevOps, agile development, microservices, lean IT, business relationship management, cyber-resilience and service integration and management (SIAM).
ITSM is morphing to adopt lean and agile approaches, said Kevin Fitzgibbons, a senior manager at Whirlpool. Its good to see how others are handling this and that there is a shift to centering our efforts on quality and serving the customer.
More than just a broad collection of topics, however, there was a larger theme: ITSM as a source of innovation and agility for the enterprise.
Roy Atkinson FUSION keynote speaker Kaihan Krippendorff
Keynote speaker Kaihan Krippendorff challenged attendees to look at their work through the lens of the organizations competitive posture, while National Geographic photographer Dewitt Jones took the general session audience on a journey of exploration in which there is never just a single right answer.
The themes of innovation and business agility were threaded throughout the conference and had an impact on the IT professionals in attendance.
We are constantly being challenged to prove our worth by showing business value, explained Victor Rosario of Lubrizol. We need to adopt innovative thinking and be advocates for the business. If we do that, we can have a big impact.
The transformation of ITSM technology
The evolution of ITSM extends beyond just new thinking. On the expo floor, numerous vendors showcased innovative technologies and approaches that are extending the bounds of the traditional ITSM technology domain:
Leveraging its mobile-first approach and commitment to a no-code configuration environment, EasyVista is emerging as a digital workplace platform.
is emerging as a digital workplace platform. First-time exhibitor Moogsoft demonstrated how artificial intelligence and advanced algorithms are helping organizations sort through the mass of data and alerts to help them get a holistic view of enterprise operations.
demonstrated how artificial intelligence and advanced algorithms are helping organizations sort through the mass of data and alerts to help them get a holistic view of enterprise operations. Bringing the intersection of ITSM, agile, and DevOps into relief, Atlassian showed tools to automate scrum boards, kanban boards and agile development management toolsand how they integrate into ITSM workflows.
showed tools to automate scrum boards, kanban boards and agile development management toolsand how they integrate into ITSM workflows. LANDESK demonstrated how it enables immediate, endpoint security remediation actions through the integration of service management, security management and asset management approaches.
demonstrated how it enables immediate, endpoint security remediation actions through the integration of service management, security management and asset management approaches. Expanding beyond their core ITSM solutions, ServiceNow announced its business command center for CIOs, focused on helping IT run projects and portfolios from a financial perspective through their new IT Business Management Suite.
The future on display
The FUSION conference was a microcosm of the larger tectonic shift occurring in the enterprise IT industry. The traditional boundaries between organizational functionsand the boundaries between technology markets serving themare blurring.
Silo mentalities and neatly aligned technology solutions have become relics of the past. In an IT industry that is changing quickly, ITSM professionals are creating a broader, more holistic approach to the management of IT organizationsblending the need for rigor, reliability and resiliency with the demand for agility and speed.
Technology vendors are adapting as well, blurring the lines between traditional technology domains while refusing to be put in a one-dimensional boxdelivering highly integrated solutions to meet the complex needs of the evolving IT organization.
Together it paints an intricate and complex picture of the future that is both exciting and challenging. With the speed at which the ITSM space is evolving, only one thing is for certain: It will look different again at next years FUSION.
Disclosure: I am the volunteer past-president of itSMF USA, a non-profit industry association. As of the time of writing, Moogsoft and ServiceNow are Intellyx clients. None of the other organizations mentioned in this article are Intellyx customers.
Since Alan Masarek joined Vonage as its CEO, the company has been on a mission to redefine how businesses communicate with workers and customers. The term unified communications has been somewhat of a fallacy, as collaboration tools are disjointed and require a high amount of manual integration. Sure, there has been some advancements with respect to bringing voice, video and content sharing together, but the tools are primarily limited to users communicating with other workers with basic collaboration tools.
+ Also on Network World: IBM creates artificial neurons from phase change memory for cognitive computing +
Theres more to communicating than just picking up a phone and calling or sending a text message. Theres a world of contextual information, particularly with customer interactions, to understand who is a user is, what they are doing, their preferences and many other factors. How does one get that information? Usually the customer is put through the grinder by being asked a bunch of questions they probably already answered in an integrated voice response (IVR) system because the business had no other way to gather that type of information.
In an effort to change this, Vonage bought communication platform as a service (CPaaS) provider Nexmo earlier this year. Nexmo makes communications modules, such as voice and chat available from the cloud. Now if a company wants to build a mobile application that has built-in click-to-call or messaging, it can make an API call to the cloud for this functionality. By holding the customer in the application, the business can gather great contextual information and streamline communications with the customer.
Making cognitive communications a reality
This week, Vonage announced that its Nexmo group is working with IBMs Project Intu to demonstrate integration between the companies that can make cognitive communications a reality. Intu is a systems-agnostic version of Watson that allows developers to embed artificial intelligence (AI) functions into devices, robots and applications. The AI combined with Nexmos voice APIs can bring a new dimension to communications and cognitive capabilities.
For example, a user could use her favorite restaurant application, such Open Table, Yelp or Trip Advisor, and ask it something like: Make me a restaurant reservation for two people at 7 p.m. Watsons natural language capabilities could interpret what was being asked, look in the application database to see the users preferences for food type, price range and location and find a place. Also, Watson can call the restaurant, book the reservation, text the user with place and time, and then send Google Map directions on how to get there.
Vonage and Nexmo together can bring context to communications, and when paired with Watson, they can elevate it to being cognitive by bringing in elements of conversation and language.
The coming together of UC and AI is still in the very early days, but the potential for game-changing applications is here. Developers need to open their minds and consider whats possible when applications, devices and network can think and interpret information. Then the promise of UC will become a reality.
Interfax-Ukraine to host press conference 'What or who is pushing Ukrainian citizens to mass protests?'
On Wednesday, November 16, at 12.00, the Interfax-Ukraine News Agency's press center will host a press conference entitled "'What or Who is Pushing Ukrainian Citizens to Mass Protests?" The participants will include Director of the Institute of Global Strategies Vadym Karasiov, expert of the Gardarica Strategic Consulting Corporation Kostiantyn Matviyenko, Director of the Ukrainian Barometer sociological service Viktor Nebozhenko (8/5a Reitarska Street). Admission requires press accreditation.
Premature publication of news is a common mistake on both our end and that of vendors. Today was Microsoft's turn to suffer an oops with the premature announcement that it is bringing its flagship development tool to the Mac.
Microsoft will be hosting its Connect(); 2016 developer conference in New York City later this week, which will be the launch grounds for Visual Studio for Mac, but for whatever reason, the news was published early to an MSDN blog.
Several sites, including TechCrunch and Neowin, got the news before the blog post was taken down, although a cached version is available from Google.
In the announcement, Microsoft notes this version of Visual Studio offers the mobile-centric Xamarin Studio IDE as a "true mobile-first, cloud-first development tool for .NET and C#," along with bringing the Visual Studio development experience to the Mac for the first time.
"At its heart, Visual Studio for Mac is a macOS counterpart of the Windows version of Visual Studio. If you enjoy the Visual Studio development experience, but need or want to use macOS, you should feel right at home. Its UX is inspired by Visual Studio, yet designed to look and feel like a native citizen of macOS. And like Visual Studio for Windows, its complemented by Visual Studio Code for times when you dont need a full IDE, but want a lightweight yet rich standalone source editor," wrote Mikayla Hutchinson, a senior program manager at Microsoft.
Visual Studio for Mac also has a lot in common with its Windows brother, but not everything. Its IntelliSense and refactoring use the Roslyn Compiler Platform; its project system and build engine use MSBuild; and its source editor supports TextMate bundles. It uses the same debugger engines for Xamarin and .NET Core apps, and it uses the same designers for Xamarin.iOS and Xamarin.Android.
However, Hutchinson's post also says it doesnt support all of the Visual Studio project types, but she does not say which project types are not supported. For those that are, team members on macOS and Windows can seamlessly share their projects across platforms without conversion or migration.
Connect() takes place Nov. 16-18. Scott Guthrie, head of Microsoft's cloud and enterprise group, will deliver the keynote address.
After Eugene Kaspersky, the founder of Kaspersky Lab, ripped into Microsoft for anticompetitive behavior in Windows 10, the Russian Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS) opened a case against Microsoft for abusing dominance.
Microsoft claimed to have a long history of cooperation with Kaspersky and that it is committed to work in full compliance with Russian law.
Yet, Russia has already decided to block Microsoft-owned LinkedIn, since the law requires Russian citizens personal data to be stored on servers within its country. In the past, Microsoft made LinkedIn censorship changes to cater to China, as opposed to being blocked like Google and Facebook. It remains to be seen if Microsoft will localize Russian users data as the countrys law demands. The New York Times added that it was unclear why LinkedIn was targeted, rather than any other major social networking site, but that is a sign of growing tensions for American tech companies operating in Russia.
Speaking of growing tensions, Kaspersky has had enough and roasted Microsoft toasty last week for anticompetitive bundling in Windows 10, namely the way the bundled Defender is Microsofts way of squeezing independent developers out of the Windows ecosystem if it has its own application for this or that purpose.
When upgrading, Windows 10 does have a habit of uninstalling users apps and replacing them with Microsoft-flavored versions. Even after selecting Keep personal files and apps during the upgrade process, third-party software can get axedand that includes antivirus. Kaspersky wants Microsoft to knock off that behavior and stop foisting its Defender on the user, which isnt beneficial from the point of view of protection of a computer against cyber attacks.
Kaspersky pointed out that upgrading to Windows 10 results in incompatible security software being deactivated and replaced with Defender. He lashed out at Microsoft, writing:
But what did it expect when independent developers were given all of one week before the release of the new version of the OS to make their software compatible? Even if software did manage to be compatible according to the initial check before the upgrade, weird things tended to happen and Defender would still take over.
This point was also hammered upon by the FAS, which claimed Microsoft cut down significantly the period for adapting compatibility of antivirus software developed by third parties for the Windows 10 operational system: from 2 months to 6 calendar days.
Kaspersky was irked about Microsofts use of a big juicy Defender Turn on button. So, even if your security software is compatible, the pop-up window looks like a warning and urges users to enable Defender, which will uninstall any existing AV program.
He bashed the effectiveness of Defender, saying independent test labs find it to be below average and lacking functionality built into other anti-malware solutions.
Windows 10 allows only one antivirus solution to be installed on a PCtwo if you turn on Defender, he explained. If you have an AV solution but install a trial version of security software, when the trial period is up, Windows doesnt revert back to the first AV solution but quietly turns off both AVs and instead turns on Defender.
Under a heading of the harmful consequences of greed is the question: Who most benefits from the monopolization of cybersecurity market? Kaspersky said, cybercriminals, of course!
Kaspersky suggested all independent software developers band together and fight Microsoft.
Users have the right to choose the best; freedom of choice enables the development of competition; and competition leads to technical progress. We intend to fight for such freedom, even if we have to do so alone, he said.
After Kasperskys post made it sound like Microsoft is trying to push independent software vendors out of the market, FAS Deputy Head Anatoly Golomolzin said, Since Microsoft itself develops antivirus softwareWindows Defender that switches on automatically if third-party software fails to adapt to Windows 10 in due timesuch actions lead to unreasonable advantages for Microsoft on the software market. Our task is to ensure equal conditions for all participants on this market.
China's 600 km/h maglev (magnetic levitation) train project, launched earlier this year, is in full swing.
Jia Limin, head of China's high-speed rail innovation program, said a high-speed maglev test line with a length of no less than 5 kilometers under the project is expected to be completed by 2021.
CRRC Corporation Limited, China's largest rail transportation equipment maker, said it would construct the test line.
In addition, Shandong Province in east China plans to construct a high-speed maglev system that runs from Jinan, the province's capital city to Qingdao, which is the first operation line based on this project, Jia said.
"That is the reason why we built the 5-km test line in Qingdao," he said.
CRRC said in October that China was launching a bullet train project containing a 600 km/h high-speed maglev train and a 400 km/h international multimodal transport high-speed train.
Ministry of Science and Technology has decided to transfer some key research projects over to enterprises, such as the CRRC, a conference on major special rail transportation projects announced in October.
CRRC was the first enterprise to take on the trial projects, who received seven out of ten projects from the Ministry of Science and Technology.
The company will also develop maglev trains that travel at 200 km/h under the project.
By Reuters
WASHINGTON: President-elect Donald Trump chose Washington insider Reince Priebus as White House chief of staff and firebrand conservative Stephen Bannon as chief strategist, showing a willingness to work with Congress and giving a nod to right-wing activists who helped sweep him into office.
Less than a week after his upset win over Democrat Hillary Clinton in Tuesday's presidential election, Trump's choice on Sunday of Priebus, the Republican National Committee chairman and friend of House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan, could help him repair his strained relations with members of the Republican Party establishment in Washington.
But Trump gave the job of strategist and senior counselor to Bannon, a fierce critic of Ryan who spearheaded Breitbart News website's shift into a forum for the "alt-right," a loose online confederation of neo-Nazis, white supremacists and anti-Semites. Bannon and Priebus would work "as equal partners to transform the federal government," Trump said in a statement.
Democrats were outraged by the choice of Bannon, calling him a promoter of racism and misogyny who is backed by the white supremacist group the Ku Klux Klan.
"It is easy to see why the KKK views Trump as their champion when Trump appoints one of the foremost peddlers of White Supremacist themes and rhetoric as his top aide," Adam, Jentleson, a spokesman for Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid, said in a statement.
U.S. Representative Adam Schiff said Bannon's selection for a top White House job was unsurprising but alarming. "His alt-right, anti-Semitic & misogynistic views don't belong in WH," Schiff said in a Twitter post. In morning television interviews on Monday, Priebus defended Bannon as a wise and well-educated former naval officer and said he had not encountered the sort of extremist or racist views that critics are assailing.
"He was a force for good on the campaign," Priebus said on Fox News, adding that they were in agreement on "almost everything" in terms of advising the president-elect. Hardline Trump backers counting on the wealthy real estate developer to keep his campaign promise to "drain the swamp" of business-as-usual Washington insiders may be disappointed he has named Priebus as chief of staff, a position that serves as gatekeeper and agenda-setter for the president.
Trump said both appointees were "highly qualified leaders" who had helped him win the White House race. President Barack Obama, who will be succeeded by Trump on Jan. 20, plans to hold a news conference on Monday at 3:15 p.m. (2015 GMT) before leaving on an international trip.
The Democratic president, who has pledged a smooth transition of leadership despite sharp political differences with Trump, is likely to be asked by reporters about Trump's appointments.
WASHINGTON: President-elect Donald Trump chose Washington insider Reince Priebus as White House chief of staff and firebrand conservative Stephen Bannon as chief strategist, showing a willingness to work with Congress and giving a nod to right-wing activists who helped sweep him into office. Less than a week after his upset win over Democrat Hillary Clinton in Tuesday's presidential election, Trump's choice on Sunday of Priebus, the Republican National Committee chairman and friend of House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan, could help him repair his strained relations with members of the Republican Party establishment in Washington. But Trump gave the job of strategist and senior counselor to Bannon, a fierce critic of Ryan who spearheaded Breitbart News website's shift into a forum for the "alt-right," a loose online confederation of neo-Nazis, white supremacists and anti-Semites. Bannon and Priebus would work "as equal partners to transform the federal government," Trump said in a statement. Democrats were outraged by the choice of Bannon, calling him a promoter of racism and misogyny who is backed by the white supremacist group the Ku Klux Klan. "It is easy to see why the KKK views Trump as their champion when Trump appoints one of the foremost peddlers of White Supremacist themes and rhetoric as his top aide," Adam, Jentleson, a spokesman for Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid, said in a statement. U.S. Representative Adam Schiff said Bannon's selection for a top White House job was unsurprising but alarming. "His alt-right, anti-Semitic & misogynistic views don't belong in WH," Schiff said in a Twitter post. In morning television interviews on Monday, Priebus defended Bannon as a wise and well-educated former naval officer and said he had not encountered the sort of extremist or racist views that critics are assailing. "He was a force for good on the campaign," Priebus said on Fox News, adding that they were in agreement on "almost everything" in terms of advising the president-elect. Hardline Trump backers counting on the wealthy real estate developer to keep his campaign promise to "drain the swamp" of business-as-usual Washington insiders may be disappointed he has named Priebus as chief of staff, a position that serves as gatekeeper and agenda-setter for the president. Trump said both appointees were "highly qualified leaders" who had helped him win the White House race. President Barack Obama, who will be succeeded by Trump on Jan. 20, plans to hold a news conference on Monday at 3:15 p.m. (2015 GMT) before leaving on an international trip. The Democratic president, who has pledged a smooth transition of leadership despite sharp political differences with Trump, is likely to be asked by reporters about Trump's appointments.
kiran parashar m By
Express News Service
BENGALURU: At a time when hordes of people are rushing to banks for new currency notes after the Centre demonetised old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, there could be some people misusing your ID proofs.
Such incidents were reported in Bengaluru where people who had been to banks were forced to return empty-handed as somebody had already used their identity proof to exchange cash.
Anna Isaac went to the Axis Bank branch on 80 Feet Road in Indiranagar on Saturday hoping to exchange Rs 3,500. She was asked for her PAN card and mobile number. To her shock, as soon as she provided her phone number, the bank officials told her that somebody had already used her PAN card to exchange Rs 4,000 the previous day.
I was horrified and checked if my details were being misused. However, I did not get any satisfactory response. How can somebody use my PAN card and phone number to exchange cash without my notice? she asked.
On reaching home, she checked with her parents if they had used her phone number to exchange money. They had not. I am afraid that my other details are also being misused, she said.
There were also reports of IDs being sold in photocopying shops. When contacted, an official from a leading bank said that though such incidents have come to their notice, it is hard to regulate them. Some come posing as relatives of old women or disabled people. We have no means of verifying their motives, he said.
Two days ago, there were reports of Aadhaar numbers being misused to exchange notes.
Regarding the PAN card incident, State Level Bankers Committee convener M Mohan Reddy said that it might be a one-off incident.
We collect the necessary details of every person who deposits money in the banks, using our in-built system. It will verify all the details of a customer, he said. He added that the banks would look into the issue of PAN card misuse.
BENGALURU: At a time when hordes of people are rushing to banks for new currency notes after the Centre demonetised old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, there could be some people misusing your ID proofs. Such incidents were reported in Bengaluru where people who had been to banks were forced to return empty-handed as somebody had already used their identity proof to exchange cash. Anna Isaac went to the Axis Bank branch on 80 Feet Road in Indiranagar on Saturday hoping to exchange Rs 3,500. She was asked for her PAN card and mobile number. To her shock, as soon as she provided her phone number, the bank officials told her that somebody had already used her PAN card to exchange Rs 4,000 the previous day. I was horrified and checked if my details were being misused. However, I did not get any satisfactory response. How can somebody use my PAN card and phone number to exchange cash without my notice? she asked. On reaching home, she checked with her parents if they had used her phone number to exchange money. They had not. I am afraid that my other details are also being misused, she said. There were also reports of IDs being sold in photocopying shops. When contacted, an official from a leading bank said that though such incidents have come to their notice, it is hard to regulate them. Some come posing as relatives of old women or disabled people. We have no means of verifying their motives, he said. Two days ago, there were reports of Aadhaar numbers being misused to exchange notes. Regarding the PAN card incident, State Level Bankers Committee convener M Mohan Reddy said that it might be a one-off incident. We collect the necessary details of every person who deposits money in the banks, using our in-built system. It will verify all the details of a customer, he said. He added that the banks would look into the issue of PAN card misuse.
Sangeeta Bora By
Express News Service
BENGALURU: While banks witnessed mad rush on Sunday as well, people continued their search for ATMs. Fortunately, for many, social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter came handy. People from various localities exchanged information pertaining to ATMs that were functional in different parts of the city through tweets under the hashtag #OpenATMblr.
People stand in a serpentine queue in
front of a bank at Srirampura on Sunday
| s manjunath
The hashtag was first started in Mumbai. It was one Sandhya Ramesh who suggested that Bengaluru can follow the footsteps of Mumbai to help the citizens here. This is when tweets under #OpenATMblr started pouring in.
One such person who benefitted from the tweets was Venkat Krishna.
I live in HSR Layout. When I was looking out for functional ATMs in 24th and 25th Main, I failed to spot any. I found all the ATMs closed although the banks were operating. Suddenly, I came across these tweets and someone said 27th Main had all the ATMs working. I rushed to the spot, stood in the queue for half an hour and got my cash. I am so thankful to the person who tweeted. It saved me.
The tweets were especially helpful for those heading outside the city. Biswajit Bhuyan, who was taking a train to Guwahati, said, I have to spend three days and one night on the train and if I do not have cash, I will have to starve. The first time when I withdrew cash, I got a `2,000 note and nobody was able to give me change for that. But this time I got all `100s and I am so relaxed.
BENGALURU: While banks witnessed mad rush on Sunday as well, people continued their search for ATMs. Fortunately, for many, social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter came handy. People from various localities exchanged information pertaining to ATMs that were functional in different parts of the city through tweets under the hashtag #OpenATMblr. People stand in a serpentine queue in front of a bank at Srirampura on Sunday | s manjunathThe hashtag was first started in Mumbai. It was one Sandhya Ramesh who suggested that Bengaluru can follow the footsteps of Mumbai to help the citizens here. This is when tweets under #OpenATMblr started pouring in. One such person who benefitted from the tweets was Venkat Krishna. I live in HSR Layout. When I was looking out for functional ATMs in 24th and 25th Main, I failed to spot any. I found all the ATMs closed although the banks were operating. Suddenly, I came across these tweets and someone said 27th Main had all the ATMs working. I rushed to the spot, stood in the queue for half an hour and got my cash. I am so thankful to the person who tweeted. It saved me. The tweets were especially helpful for those heading outside the city. Biswajit Bhuyan, who was taking a train to Guwahati, said, I have to spend three days and one night on the train and if I do not have cash, I will have to starve. The first time when I withdrew cash, I got a `2,000 note and nobody was able to give me change for that. But this time I got all `100s and I am so relaxed.
SV Krishna Chaitanya By
Express News Service
CHENNAI: Unlike in Delhi, emissions from the industrial clusters in Chennais hinterland are blown away by breeze. Therefore, Chennai stands smug in the belief that it will never be a Delhi. But then, pollutants from vehicle exhaust, domestic cooking, open waste burning, and road dust are formidable enough challenges for the city.
Chennai ranks third in India in terms of the number of motor vehicles, next only to Delhi and Bengaluru. In just the last four years, an astonishing one million new vehicles were added to Chennais roads, taking the number up to 47 lakh.
According to a five-year study conducted by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), the transport sector contributes a whopping 35-48 per cent to air pollution in Chennai. The study covered five other citiesDelhi, Mumbai, Kanpur, Bengaluru and Puneand Chennai topped them all.
Since vehicle exhaust is clearly a concern, environment activist Jawaharlal Shanmugam says Chennai should ban vehicles older than 15 years because they are heavy polluters. For example, sulphur dioxide emission from a Bharat IV compliant engine is just 50 ppm compared to 500 ppm from a Bharat II engine.
However, pollution researcher Sarath K Guttikunda of UrbanEmissions.info says a transport-only anti-pollution approach is myopic. We have to recognise that pollution comes from many sources, and transport is only one of them. We ought to look at improving the efficiency of manufacturing industries as well, especially the brick kilns, he says.
Chennais average monthly concentration of PM 10 pollutants falls in the range of 60-160 micrograms per cubic metre, which is higher than the national average of 60 micrograms per cubic metre and the WHO standard of 20 micrograms. And when it comes to PM 2.5 particulates, a study conducted by urbanemissions.info found that emissions in Chennai add up to 51,200 tonnes annually.
Clearly the drift of developments indicate the need for action. National Atmospheric Research Laboratory (NARL) director R Jayaraman says, Chennais case is different from the trends observed in other mega cities where overall ambient air pollution is very high. But this must not breed complacency as available data point to a steady and rapid increase in pollution over time, high local impacts and high toxicity in Chennais air.
No. of vehicles
2012: 37 lakh
2016: 47 lakh
Chennais 7 sources of pollution
Transport
Road dust
Electricity generation and utilisation
Brick kilns and construction
Industries
Domestic sector
Open waste burning
CHENNAI: Unlike in Delhi, emissions from the industrial clusters in Chennais hinterland are blown away by breeze. Therefore, Chennai stands smug in the belief that it will never be a Delhi. But then, pollutants from vehicle exhaust, domestic cooking, open waste burning, and road dust are formidable enough challenges for the city. Chennai ranks third in India in terms of the number of motor vehicles, next only to Delhi and Bengaluru. In just the last four years, an astonishing one million new vehicles were added to Chennais roads, taking the number up to 47 lakh. According to a five-year study conducted by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), the transport sector contributes a whopping 35-48 per cent to air pollution in Chennai. The study covered five other citiesDelhi, Mumbai, Kanpur, Bengaluru and Puneand Chennai topped them all. Since vehicle exhaust is clearly a concern, environment activist Jawaharlal Shanmugam says Chennai should ban vehicles older than 15 years because they are heavy polluters. For example, sulphur dioxide emission from a Bharat IV compliant engine is just 50 ppm compared to 500 ppm from a Bharat II engine. However, pollution researcher Sarath K Guttikunda of UrbanEmissions.info says a transport-only anti-pollution approach is myopic. We have to recognise that pollution comes from many sources, and transport is only one of them. We ought to look at improving the efficiency of manufacturing industries as well, especially the brick kilns, he says. Chennais average monthly concentration of PM 10 pollutants falls in the range of 60-160 micrograms per cubic metre, which is higher than the national average of 60 micrograms per cubic metre and the WHO standard of 20 micrograms. And when it comes to PM 2.5 particulates, a study conducted by urbanemissions.info found that emissions in Chennai add up to 51,200 tonnes annually. Clearly the drift of developments indicate the need for action. National Atmospheric Research Laboratory (NARL) director R Jayaraman says, Chennais case is different from the trends observed in other mega cities where overall ambient air pollution is very high. But this must not breed complacency as available data point to a steady and rapid increase in pollution over time, high local impacts and high toxicity in Chennais air. No. of vehicles 2012: 37 lakh 2016: 47 lakh Chennais 7 sources of pollution Transport Road dust Electricity generation and utilisation Brick kilns and construction Industries Domestic sector Open waste burning
By Express News Service
CHENNAI: THE Anna University Teachers' Association (AUTA) has decided to go on a hunger strike within the campus, without affecting classes, on Tuesday to press for the immediate implementation of Career Advancement Scheme (CAS), among other things.
"We had a dialogue with the administration and have decided to go ahead with the strike since their response was unsatisfactory," said I.Arul Aram, President of AUTA, speaking to Express.
The association, representing teachers of all four institutions that come under the university, is fighting primarily for implementation of CAS, a time-bound promotion scheme, that has not been implemented since 2010, a AUTA release said.
Some members of the association have not received their first promotion even after 13 years of regular service, the release added.
The charter of seven demands included filling up the Vice Chancellor post without further delay, a grievance cell, appointment of Heads/Directors based on seniority and on a rotational basis and an enabling environment for working. "The VC post has been vacant since May. We want a qualified individual to fill in the post as soon as possible," said Arul.
According to him, teachers are required to achieve a certain Academic Performance Indicator (API) for which they would need to attend conferences and work on projects. "Sometimes the Heads don't allow us to go for these conferences nor do they provide us with facilities to work on our projects. How can we equip and qualify ourselves?" he asked.
The association has also pushed for two elected representatives from the faculty in the Syndicate.
CHENNAI: THE Anna University Teachers' Association (AUTA) has decided to go on a hunger strike within the campus, without affecting classes, on Tuesday to press for the immediate implementation of Career Advancement Scheme (CAS), among other things. "We had a dialogue with the administration and have decided to go ahead with the strike since their response was unsatisfactory," said I.Arul Aram, President of AUTA, speaking to Express. The association, representing teachers of all four institutions that come under the university, is fighting primarily for implementation of CAS, a time-bound promotion scheme, that has not been implemented since 2010, a AUTA release said. Some members of the association have not received their first promotion even after 13 years of regular service, the release added. The charter of seven demands included filling up the Vice Chancellor post without further delay, a grievance cell, appointment of Heads/Directors based on seniority and on a rotational basis and an enabling environment for working. "The VC post has been vacant since May. We want a qualified individual to fill in the post as soon as possible," said Arul. According to him, teachers are required to achieve a certain Academic Performance Indicator (API) for which they would need to attend conferences and work on projects. "Sometimes the Heads don't allow us to go for these conferences nor do they provide us with facilities to work on our projects. How can we equip and qualify ourselves?" he asked. The association has also pushed for two elected representatives from the faculty in the Syndicate.
By Express News Service
CHENNAI: HUNDREDS alighted at the Chennai Central on Monday morning when the Andaman Express from Vaishno Devi temple (Jammu and Kashmir) arrived after more than three days of journey.
While almost all of them headed for the exits, a small boy was walking along the platform all by himself until he was spotted by an RPF personnel. Dressed in a very dirty shirt, which had the symbol of DAV BORL Public School (Bina, Madhya Pradesh), the boy was then escorted to the childline centre, which receives children stranded at the station.
"It is very likely that the boy must have been missed by his family, who in all probability must have travelled in the general compartment," an RPF officer told Express.
Like the boy whose name has not yet been ascertained, Chennai Central has seen more than 1300 children stranded in its premises during the last one year. The children, mostly in the age group between 10-15, are reported to have either run away from other places or missed at the station, which is housed under a heritage structure built in 1873. On an average, the station handles more than 60 trains every day and is accessed by thousands of passengers coming in from across the country.
From July last year, when a railway childline centre was set up at the station, till October this year, a total of 1364 children have been rescued. According to statistics, maintained by Bro Siga Social Service Guild, which runs the helpline (1098) at Central, a majority of them (817) are said to have run away, while 547 children were missed.
Speaking to Express, A Malini, Project Coordinator, said about half of the children were from other states, especially from Odisha. Apart from being traumatised finding themselves alone, they don't comprehend the local language, she said. For such cases assistance is being taken from of RPF personnel, conversant in other languages.
According to her, while most of them run away due to poor domestic conditions, there are others who are tempted by strangers, friends or lovers, but abandoned at the station. "We provide counselling to such children, find more details about them. We then handover the rescued children either to their parents or to the Child Welfare Committee," Malini said.
TOTAL CHILDREN RESCUED - 1364
FROM TN - 686
FROM OTHER STATES - 678
CHENNAI: HUNDREDS alighted at the Chennai Central on Monday morning when the Andaman Express from Vaishno Devi temple (Jammu and Kashmir) arrived after more than three days of journey. While almost all of them headed for the exits, a small boy was walking along the platform all by himself until he was spotted by an RPF personnel. Dressed in a very dirty shirt, which had the symbol of DAV BORL Public School (Bina, Madhya Pradesh), the boy was then escorted to the childline centre, which receives children stranded at the station. "It is very likely that the boy must have been missed by his family, who in all probability must have travelled in the general compartment," an RPF officer told Express. Like the boy whose name has not yet been ascertained, Chennai Central has seen more than 1300 children stranded in its premises during the last one year. The children, mostly in the age group between 10-15, are reported to have either run away from other places or missed at the station, which is housed under a heritage structure built in 1873. On an average, the station handles more than 60 trains every day and is accessed by thousands of passengers coming in from across the country. From July last year, when a railway childline centre was set up at the station, till October this year, a total of 1364 children have been rescued. According to statistics, maintained by Bro Siga Social Service Guild, which runs the helpline (1098) at Central, a majority of them (817) are said to have run away, while 547 children were missed. Speaking to Express, A Malini, Project Coordinator, said about half of the children were from other states, especially from Odisha. Apart from being traumatised finding themselves alone, they don't comprehend the local language, she said. For such cases assistance is being taken from of RPF personnel, conversant in other languages. According to her, while most of them run away due to poor domestic conditions, there are others who are tempted by strangers, friends or lovers, but abandoned at the station. "We provide counselling to such children, find more details about them. We then handover the rescued children either to their parents or to the Child Welfare Committee," Malini said. TOTAL CHILDREN RESCUED - 1364 FROM TN - 686 FROM OTHER STATES - 678
By Express News Service
CHENNAI: IT was a shock to a 34-year-old realtor, when he recently learnt that the money he had been contributing to a children's home for the past two and a half years was being swindled by a duo. While one has been arrested, a search is on for the other.
On a complaint by the realtor, Ayyappan, Dinesh (26) was arrested and fake receipts were seized. However, the prime suspect, Karthikeyan, is still at large.
Police said, Ayyappan had been contributing `1,500 for the last two and a half years to Dinesh, who claimed to be the collection boy of a children's home, Annai Anbalayaa Trust which serves deprived children.
Recently, I had asked the staff who calls me every month from the home to fix an appointment to collect the cash, if I could talk to the founder. I wanted to contribute more and to check the necessities of the home. But the woman did not get back to me for more than a week. I became suspicious and searched on the internet for the founder's phone number and spoke to Sivakumar. It was only then I realised that the money was not reaching the home in Athipathu village in Minjur, said Ayyappan.
Two days later, I again received a call from the home asking when they could collect the money. Immediately, I alerted the local police and called the collection boy, Dinesh to come collect the money. Police caught him red handed, he added.
Karthikeyan had prepared fake receipts using the logo, license number, registration number. Only the address and the contact number were different in the fake receipt. Our children's home has been functioning for the past fifteen years and is recognised by the government. Now-a-days people come forward to contribute money to homes, but donors should ensure that the money is transferred online so that it reaches the home directly, said founder of the home Sivakumar.
A case has been registered by Abiramapuram police and further investigations are on. "We are investigating on how many people have been cheated the same way and how many more people have been involved in the case," said a senior police officer.
CHENNAI: IT was a shock to a 34-year-old realtor, when he recently learnt that the money he had been contributing to a children's home for the past two and a half years was being swindled by a duo. While one has been arrested, a search is on for the other. On a complaint by the realtor, Ayyappan, Dinesh (26) was arrested and fake receipts were seized. However, the prime suspect, Karthikeyan, is still at large. Police said, Ayyappan had been contributing `1,500 for the last two and a half years to Dinesh, who claimed to be the collection boy of a children's home, Annai Anbalayaa Trust which serves deprived children. Recently, I had asked the staff who calls me every month from the home to fix an appointment to collect the cash, if I could talk to the founder. I wanted to contribute more and to check the necessities of the home. But the woman did not get back to me for more than a week. I became suspicious and searched on the internet for the founder's phone number and spoke to Sivakumar. It was only then I realised that the money was not reaching the home in Athipathu village in Minjur, said Ayyappan. Two days later, I again received a call from the home asking when they could collect the money. Immediately, I alerted the local police and called the collection boy, Dinesh to come collect the money. Police caught him red handed, he added. Karthikeyan had prepared fake receipts using the logo, license number, registration number. Only the address and the contact number were different in the fake receipt. Our children's home has been functioning for the past fifteen years and is recognised by the government. Now-a-days people come forward to contribute money to homes, but donors should ensure that the money is transferred online so that it reaches the home directly, said founder of the home Sivakumar. A case has been registered by Abiramapuram police and further investigations are on. "We are investigating on how many people have been cheated the same way and how many more people have been involved in the case," said a senior police officer.
Jayendra Chaitanya By
Express News Service
HYDERABAD: After cracking down on bootleggers, eve-teasers and repeat offenders, the Hyderabad police is now eyeing cyber fraud offenders, be it those who indulge in property offences or other crimes like harassing women with abusive messages.
In a first-of-its-kind attempt, the city police now plan to open history sheets on 12 habitual cyber offenders, including two persons from Hyderabad. The initiative comes because of the high recidivism among offenders. A history sheet is normally opened on a person if a particular offense is committed repeatedly, despite arrests and convictions.
Cyber crimes Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) KCS Raghuvir told *Express* that several offenders, who had earlier been arrested by teams, had since obtained bail and continued to commit the online offenses in order to cheat the public.
We identified 12 persons indulging in cyber offenses habitually. One among them is 21-year-old computer sciences engineering student Abdul Majid, a resident of Banjara Hills. Another is Madhu, a former employee of Food Corporation of India. The other persons are from New Delhi, who are involved in job frauds, loan frauds and matrimonial frauds, said Raghuvir.
Majid was first arrested by the Cyberabad police for chatting with teenage girl students while pretending to be a girl on social media. He would then collect information about them and their private pictures before extorting money from them. He victimised over 100 minor girls, according to the city police.
Later, he was arrested by the Hyderabad police on those charges, but he obtained bail.
Recently, the cyber crime police received three fresh complaints from teenage girls. The girls were being extorted for money by a Facebook friend. When the police investigated, the accused turned out to be Majid.
When we traced the IMEI number of the mobile phone with which phone conversations were being made, we found that the mobile was being used by Majids sister. On inquiry, it was found that Majid had again resorted to crime, said the ACP.
The other prolific offender, Madhu, was arrested for cheating minors and teenage girls on the pretext of providing them jobs and thereafter forcing them to have sexual relations with him. Madhu extorted huge sums of money from the victims.
Raghuvir said that Madhu had even moved the Supreme Court requesting that the orders of Preventive Detention invoked by the government of Telangana against him be removed, but his plea was rejected.
Another key offender on the polices list is from Guntur. This individual was arrested on charges of cheating over 100 job aspirants on the pretext of providing them jobs.
The other nine offenders are from New Delhi. They were repeatedly arrested for indulging in job fraud, loan fraud and matrimonial fraud.
All these people will be under police scanner across the country. The police of all the states will be passed on the information about them. The patrolling parties will have to check daily for the availability of these offenders and alert their counterparts if they go missing, the officer explained.
HYDERABAD: After cracking down on bootleggers, eve-teasers and repeat offenders, the Hyderabad police is now eyeing cyber fraud offenders, be it those who indulge in property offences or other crimes like harassing women with abusive messages. In a first-of-its-kind attempt, the city police now plan to open history sheets on 12 habitual cyber offenders, including two persons from Hyderabad. The initiative comes because of the high recidivism among offenders. A history sheet is normally opened on a person if a particular offense is committed repeatedly, despite arrests and convictions. Cyber crimes Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) KCS Raghuvir told *Express* that several offenders, who had earlier been arrested by teams, had since obtained bail and continued to commit the online offenses in order to cheat the public. We identified 12 persons indulging in cyber offenses habitually. One among them is 21-year-old computer sciences engineering student Abdul Majid, a resident of Banjara Hills. Another is Madhu, a former employee of Food Corporation of India. The other persons are from New Delhi, who are involved in job frauds, loan frauds and matrimonial frauds, said Raghuvir. Majid was first arrested by the Cyberabad police for chatting with teenage girl students while pretending to be a girl on social media. He would then collect information about them and their private pictures before extorting money from them. He victimised over 100 minor girls, according to the city police. Later, he was arrested by the Hyderabad police on those charges, but he obtained bail. Recently, the cyber crime police received three fresh complaints from teenage girls. The girls were being extorted for money by a Facebook friend. When the police investigated, the accused turned out to be Majid. When we traced the IMEI number of the mobile phone with which phone conversations were being made, we found that the mobile was being used by Majids sister. On inquiry, it was found that Majid had again resorted to crime, said the ACP. The other prolific offender, Madhu, was arrested for cheating minors and teenage girls on the pretext of providing them jobs and thereafter forcing them to have sexual relations with him. Madhu extorted huge sums of money from the victims. Raghuvir said that Madhu had even moved the Supreme Court requesting that the orders of Preventive Detention invoked by the government of Telangana against him be removed, but his plea was rejected. Another key offender on the polices list is from Guntur. This individual was arrested on charges of cheating over 100 job aspirants on the pretext of providing them jobs. The other nine offenders are from New Delhi. They were repeatedly arrested for indulging in job fraud, loan fraud and matrimonial fraud. All these people will be under police scanner across the country. The police of all the states will be passed on the information about them. The patrolling parties will have to check daily for the availability of these offenders and alert their counterparts if they go missing, the officer explained.
Tens of thousands of Hong Kong residents join a rally Sunday afternoon outside the Legislative Council complex to show support for the NPC Standing Committee's interpretation of the Basic Law. Roy Liu /China Daily
Hong Kong saw an outpouring of patriotism on Sunday in a mass demonstration calling for disqualifying the lawmakers-elect who have refused to pledge allegiance to the nation and the city's Basic Law.
Organizers said more than 40,000 people turned up from an alliance of 1,000 organizations across the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
Gathered outside the city's Legislative Council complex, they condemned in particular Sixtus Baggio Leung Chung-hang and Yau Wai-ching, two lawmakers-elect, for their separatist stand and bad manners and obscenities while taking the oath of office on Oct 12.
Demonstrators also supported the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature, in its latest interpretation of the Hong Kong Basic Law and clarification of the oath-taking procedures for all senior officials, lawmakers and judges of the SAR.
Ng Chau-pei, one of the organizers of the gathering and also chairman of Hong Kong's largest labor group, the Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions, said there were also about 10,000 people who couldn't fit in the limited space of the protest zone.
On Nov 7, the NPC Standing Committee delivered its interpretation of Article 104 of the Hong Kong Basic Law, requiring senior officials, legislators and judges to pledge allegiance to the country and the SAR, and to take their oath in an accurate, sincere and solemn manner, under penalty of their disqualification.
It was the fifth time that the Standing Committee made an interpretation of the Basic Law since Hong Kong's reunification with the motherland in 1997.
Hong Kong's High Court has yet to hand down a decision in the judicial review mounted by the SAR government. The government seeks to have the oaths taken by the pair declared invalid and their seats vacated.
Maggie Chan Man-ki, president of Small and Medium Law Firms Association of Hong Kong, praised the interpretation as an effort to prevent possible instability caused by the pro-independence activists.
Rajitha S By
Express News Service
Ireland is a green, lustrous easy-to-access study abroad option for the Indian student. Rajitha S does the Dublin trip and tells us all about it
One cannot fail to notice the stark difference the chatter of some excited students on Trinity Square, in Dublin, and then, kilometres away from this hustle bustle, in the University of Limerick campus is that one student meditating under the sun and soaking in the warmth that is generally missing in Ireland.
From the city centre to the picturesque countryside, everything seems like it is taken out of a childs play book. Medieval architecture blends beautifully with modern state-of-the-art technology in the higher educational institutions in the country turning them into inspiring spaces for those willing to learn. Indian students who have just stepped there and those who have made the country their home, share their experiences on why Ireland is better than most other countries as a destination for prospective students from India.
student activity centre
Ireland, matey
Telugu girl Shilpika Kotina who has lived in Nabrangpur, Odisha for almost 20 years was passionate about getting a study-abroad experience. I wasnt as keen about landing a job, as I was to explore and understand more about myself. So, after I completed my engineering, I decided to go abroad and study, recalls Shilpika.
She landed at the National College of Ireland after many twists and turns. She took two years to convince her parents about her decision. I dont have a lot of time because my parents want me to get married soon. In the United States, all Masters courses are for two years. UK was another option, but they did not have a one-year work permit option that Ireland gives you, points the 26-year-old. Ireland being the only other English-speaking country in Europe, she decided on the country and then the process of choosing the course began. MSc Management that I am pursuing here has a well-designed course and the modules are technically sound. There was financial support available too when I joined in January 2015, shares Shilpika.
Maynooth university
On the job
Staying true to her dream of exploring her strengths and weaknesses, Shilpika took every opportunity that came her way. Donning multiple hats, she cherishes her experiences as the international student ambassador, international peer mentor and also the founder of two new societies.
I realised that you have to unlearn and relearn in order to survive. I can see the way I have transformed. I was reserved and hesitant to open up when I came here. But today, I confidently shared my life story with you, she points.
Making the best use of her time in Ireland, Shilpika owes her transformation to the mentoring and the opportunities she got as a student in the university.
After a three-month internship, she is now employed at the same company. It wasnt a paid internship but I now have a year of Irish work experience, a great value addition to my portfolio, she smiles.
The career and opportunities service at the college helps students get ready for the industry right from the time they land in the campus. They may not be getting jobs in the first few months, but we conduct group and one-to-one sessions with the students that start with getting their resume ready. We go right up to facing the interviews, informs Helen Conway, advisor for international students at National Institute of Ireland.
Helen helped me with my CV and also in updating my LinkedIn profile which is quite crucial. As a student, I am allowed to work part time which is 20 hours per week and I get paid 10 euros per hour, informs Shilpika.
The number of opportunities for the students are also high as over a 1000 companies have their European headquarters in Dublin including Google, HP, Apple, IBM, Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter, Pfizer.
Divya Rose Monson, from Delhi, is pursuing her Masters in Electrical Engineering at the University College, Dublin. She worked with the PM Group in Dublin, that provides services in project management, process design, facility design and construction management and also on a on a project with Eirgrid, a power transmission company located in Dublin.
She feels that working on projects and taking up internships while on the course helps in the long run. This experience can prove beneficial when you apply for a job, at the same or a different company, after the completion of your course. It also familiarises you with the working culture here in Ireland and gives your confidence a boost. There are more chances for students to land a job at the same firm they did their internship with. The competition, however, is fierce, she says and adds that though the pay depends on the company, students earn up to 1500 to 2000 Euros every month.
The charm of Irish hospitality
Buzzing with activity, smiling students welcome you and serve freshly grown farm fruits and Irish coffee with cookies at the Inter-Faith Centre at Dublin City University (DCU).
This is our anti-depressant, says Sravanthi Kurri, a first year student who landed at DCU in September this year and hails from Bengaluru.
Sravanthi and her international mates share that this is one space on the large university campus that serves as a stress buster. You hear the music in the background. They are playing Indian music as a warm welcome, just like we had when we arrived, she recalls.
This is one place Sravanthi vouches that there is no bar on colour, dressing style, nationality anything for that matter. There are so many things happening in this space at all times, I wonder if get a taste of everything in one year. Students from various countries come and pray here, they celebrate their festivals. On some days, some of them are just hanging are just hanging around and playing music, you forget everything, she shares, with gleaming eyes and quickly adds, Our mood lightens up the minute we set foot here.
Sravanthi is pursuing her Masters in Data Analytics and is impressed with the learning system. It makes you think. Projects are given throughout the year and that makes learning effortless and a continuous process. Then we also learn from each other. You can sit in any class you are interested in. Then you can also join societies and groups, those are plenty, she says.
Societies of various nationalities and groups for various activities are across universities. Shilpika from National College of Ireland tells us that students have the freedom to start new societies. I started the photography society in my college and it has been acknowledged as the best new society this year. So there is a lot of scope for individuals to explore and grow, she says.
The room conundrum
Accommodation is one of the only hassles that students travelling to study in Ireland face. The situation is challenging for those studying in Dublin, but for students in the countryside, like the cities of Cork, Limerick and Galway, students enjoy a host of benefits. While some of them are set up with Irish families which host them during their time in the country, students also opt for on campus accommodation.
It is also easy to find homes which you can share with fellow students. I stay with three other South Indians. We shop for our groceries every week, quite affordable in this part of the city and cook everyday, says Prasanna who is from Madurai is currently pursuing BE Honours in Structural Engineering at Cork Institute of Technology.
Navin Rajpal, 23-year-old student at the National University of Ireland, Galway is pursuing Masters in Management. Galway, another quaint and picturesque county is around 200 km away from the bustling Dublin city. Navin chose Galway for a reason. "I stay 25 minutes away from the university and share my home with a Chinese undergraduate. We have a common kitchen and cook our own food. It is not so difficult," he says.
Divya also assures, Dont worry, you will never go hungry! We will need around 600 euros a month for food, rent and other expenses.
(The writer was in Ireland at the invitation of Education in Ireland)
Ireland is a green, lustrous easy-to-access study abroad option for the Indian student. Rajitha S does the Dublin trip and tells us all about it One cannot fail to notice the stark difference the chatter of some excited students on Trinity Square, in Dublin, and then, kilometres away from this hustle bustle, in the University of Limerick campus is that one student meditating under the sun and soaking in the warmth that is generally missing in Ireland. From the city centre to the picturesque countryside, everything seems like it is taken out of a childs play book. Medieval architecture blends beautifully with modern state-of-the-art technology in the higher educational institutions in the country turning them into inspiring spaces for those willing to learn. Indian students who have just stepped there and those who have made the country their home, share their experiences on why Ireland is better than most other countries as a destination for prospective students from India. student activity centreIreland, matey Telugu girl Shilpika Kotina who has lived in Nabrangpur, Odisha for almost 20 years was passionate about getting a study-abroad experience. I wasnt as keen about landing a job, as I was to explore and understand more about myself. So, after I completed my engineering, I decided to go abroad and study, recalls Shilpika. She landed at the National College of Ireland after many twists and turns. She took two years to convince her parents about her decision. I dont have a lot of time because my parents want me to get married soon. In the United States, all Masters courses are for two years. UK was another option, but they did not have a one-year work permit option that Ireland gives you, points the 26-year-old. Ireland being the only other English-speaking country in Europe, she decided on the country and then the process of choosing the course began. MSc Management that I am pursuing here has a well-designed course and the modules are technically sound. There was financial support available too when I joined in January 2015, shares Shilpika. Maynooth universityOn the job Staying true to her dream of exploring her strengths and weaknesses, Shilpika took every opportunity that came her way. Donning multiple hats, she cherishes her experiences as the international student ambassador, international peer mentor and also the founder of two new societies. I realised that you have to unlearn and relearn in order to survive. I can see the way I have transformed. I was reserved and hesitant to open up when I came here. But today, I confidently shared my life story with you, she points. Making the best use of her time in Ireland, Shilpika owes her transformation to the mentoring and the opportunities she got as a student in the university. After a three-month internship, she is now employed at the same company. It wasnt a paid internship but I now have a year of Irish work experience, a great value addition to my portfolio, she smiles. The career and opportunities service at the college helps students get ready for the industry right from the time they land in the campus. They may not be getting jobs in the first few months, but we conduct group and one-to-one sessions with the students that start with getting their resume ready. We go right up to facing the interviews, informs Helen Conway, advisor for international students at National Institute of Ireland. Helen helped me with my CV and also in updating my LinkedIn profile which is quite crucial. As a student, I am allowed to work part time which is 20 hours per week and I get paid 10 euros per hour, informs Shilpika. The number of opportunities for the students are also high as over a 1000 companies have their European headquarters in Dublin including Google, HP, Apple, IBM, Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter, Pfizer. Divya Rose Monson, from Delhi, is pursuing her Masters in Electrical Engineering at the University College, Dublin. She worked with the PM Group in Dublin, that provides services in project management, process design, facility design and construction management and also on a on a project with Eirgrid, a power transmission company located in Dublin. She feels that working on projects and taking up internships while on the course helps in the long run. This experience can prove beneficial when you apply for a job, at the same or a different company, after the completion of your course. It also familiarises you with the working culture here in Ireland and gives your confidence a boost. There are more chances for students to land a job at the same firm they did their internship with. The competition, however, is fierce, she says and adds that though the pay depends on the company, students earn up to 1500 to 2000 Euros every month. The charm of Irish hospitality Buzzing with activity, smiling students welcome you and serve freshly grown farm fruits and Irish coffee with cookies at the Inter-Faith Centre at Dublin City University (DCU). This is our anti-depressant, says Sravanthi Kurri, a first year student who landed at DCU in September this year and hails from Bengaluru. Sravanthi and her international mates share that this is one space on the large university campus that serves as a stress buster. You hear the music in the background. They are playing Indian music as a warm welcome, just like we had when we arrived, she recalls. This is one place Sravanthi vouches that there is no bar on colour, dressing style, nationality anything for that matter. There are so many things happening in this space at all times, I wonder if get a taste of everything in one year. Students from various countries come and pray here, they celebrate their festivals. On some days, some of them are just hanging are just hanging around and playing music, you forget everything, she shares, with gleaming eyes and quickly adds, Our mood lightens up the minute we set foot here. Sravanthi is pursuing her Masters in Data Analytics and is impressed with the learning system. It makes you think. Projects are given throughout the year and that makes learning effortless and a continuous process. Then we also learn from each other. You can sit in any class you are interested in. Then you can also join societies and groups, those are plenty, she says. Societies of various nationalities and groups for various activities are across universities. Shilpika from National College of Ireland tells us that students have the freedom to start new societies. I started the photography society in my college and it has been acknowledged as the best new society this year. So there is a lot of scope for individuals to explore and grow, she says. The room conundrum Accommodation is one of the only hassles that students travelling to study in Ireland face. The situation is challenging for those studying in Dublin, but for students in the countryside, like the cities of Cork, Limerick and Galway, students enjoy a host of benefits. While some of them are set up with Irish families which host them during their time in the country, students also opt for on campus accommodation. It is also easy to find homes which you can share with fellow students. I stay with three other South Indians. We shop for our groceries every week, quite affordable in this part of the city and cook everyday, says Prasanna who is from Madurai is currently pursuing BE Honours in Structural Engineering at Cork Institute of Technology. Navin Rajpal, 23-year-old student at the National University of Ireland, Galway is pursuing Masters in Management. Galway, another quaint and picturesque county is around 200 km away from the bustling Dublin city. Navin chose Galway for a reason. "I stay 25 minutes away from the university and share my home with a Chinese undergraduate. We have a common kitchen and cook our own food. It is not so difficult," he says. Divya also assures, Dont worry, you will never go hungry! We will need around 600 euros a month for food, rent and other expenses. (The writer was in Ireland at the invitation of Education in Ireland)
By Express News Service
BHUBANESWAR: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) will not be part of the delegation comprising West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee which is likely to meet President Pranab Mukherjee over the demonetisation issue.
"BJD will not participate in the call given by Mamata Banerjee to meet President of India to oppose demonetisation," BJD spokersperson Pratap Deb told mediapersons here. Mamata had called upon all opposition political parties including the CPI(M) to unite against the Centre's decision to demonetise Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes.
"The President has agreed to meet representatives of political parties on November 16 or 17 where we will brief him in detail on the grim situation," she had said in a tweet.
Meanwhile, the BJD parliamentary party leader Bhatruhari Mahatab also maintained that the party has welcomed the move of the Centre. "But we will raise the difficulties faced by the common people and ask what steps the Centre will take to ensure they do not face difficulties," he said.
Chief minister Naveen Patnaik has already announced his support for demonetisation move of the Centre. He has, however, asked the Centre to take steps to ensure that people in rural and unbanked areas are not put to difficulty.
Mahatab said BJD will keep its view in the all party meeting convened by Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan on Monday and parliamentary affairs minister Ananth Kumar tomorrow.
Besides the demonetisation issue, the BJD will raise several other issues including Mahanadi river water dispute with Chhattisgarh and the Polavaram dam issue. The GST issue will also be raised in the Parliament by the BJD. The Odisha government has announced its support for GST with some riders.
BHUBANESWAR: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) will not be part of the delegation comprising West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee which is likely to meet President Pranab Mukherjee over the demonetisation issue. "BJD will not participate in the call given by Mamata Banerjee to meet President of India to oppose demonetisation," BJD spokersperson Pratap Deb told mediapersons here. Mamata had called upon all opposition political parties including the CPI(M) to unite against the Centre's decision to demonetise Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes. "The President has agreed to meet representatives of political parties on November 16 or 17 where we will brief him in detail on the grim situation," she had said in a tweet. Meanwhile, the BJD parliamentary party leader Bhatruhari Mahatab also maintained that the party has welcomed the move of the Centre. "But we will raise the difficulties faced by the common people and ask what steps the Centre will take to ensure they do not face difficulties," he said. Chief minister Naveen Patnaik has already announced his support for demonetisation move of the Centre. He has, however, asked the Centre to take steps to ensure that people in rural and unbanked areas are not put to difficulty. Mahatab said BJD will keep its view in the all party meeting convened by Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan on Monday and parliamentary affairs minister Ananth Kumar tomorrow. Besides the demonetisation issue, the BJD will raise several other issues including Mahanadi river water dispute with Chhattisgarh and the Polavaram dam issue. The GST issue will also be raised in the Parliament by the BJD. The Odisha government has announced its support for GST with some riders.
Namita bajpai By
Express News Service
LUCKNOW: In a state where even ensuring an election ticket allegedly costs some candidates crores of rupees, one may well imagine the prevalence of black money in the biggest jamboree of democracy celebrated every five years. Will demonetisation check the rampant prevalence of ill-gotten money in elections due in a couple of months from now?
Its at least a job well begun, feel a host of experts Express spoke to. But much will depend on how well various ways of money laundering are checked.
Those who use black money to win elections will do anything to woo voters. Since unaccounted money is an important part of elections, those pitching in will start distributing it right away. As per provision, notes can be converted till December 30, 2016, so the voter can avail of this facility easily, Trilochan Sastry of the Association of Democratic Reforms said.
According to sources in the Financial Intelligence Unit, in Uttar Pradesh alone, unaccounted money worth Rs 500 crore was used during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. Besides, there was a sudden rise in bank transactions across the state between September 2013 and April 2014. Of approximately Rs 300 crore seized, about one-sixth of the amount was from the state.
According to an ADR report, most parties show bulk of their funding from donations given by small unnamed benefactors with less than Rs 20,000 contribution each. The percentage of such unnamed contributors was over 90 per cent in case of the BSP. Both the SP and BSP have prepared a war chest of Rs 500 crore each for the polls, according to their own submission to the Election Commission. The BJP and the Congress clearly would be no less prepared. As per the ADR report, the BJP and BSP have the highest number of candidates with money power. Demonetisation will certainly affect poll expenses but the impact will depend on the financial strength of the candidates, said Sudhir Panwar, a farmer leader and social activist.
A candidate cant spend more than Rs 70 lakh in a Lok Sabha election and Rs 28 lakh in Assembly polls. However, this limit is observed only in exceptional cases. Over 2,200 accounts of candidates and their associates were under observation during the 2014 elections. Arvind Mohan, a Lucknow-based economist, said, At present the currency circulation is to the tune of Rs 18 lakh crore of which around Rs 13.5 lakh crore roughly is in Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes. Now demonetisation will take away the sheen and shine of elections.
LUCKNOW: In a state where even ensuring an election ticket allegedly costs some candidates crores of rupees, one may well imagine the prevalence of black money in the biggest jamboree of democracy celebrated every five years. Will demonetisation check the rampant prevalence of ill-gotten money in elections due in a couple of months from now? Its at least a job well begun, feel a host of experts Express spoke to. But much will depend on how well various ways of money laundering are checked. Those who use black money to win elections will do anything to woo voters. Since unaccounted money is an important part of elections, those pitching in will start distributing it right away. As per provision, notes can be converted till December 30, 2016, so the voter can avail of this facility easily, Trilochan Sastry of the Association of Democratic Reforms said. According to sources in the Financial Intelligence Unit, in Uttar Pradesh alone, unaccounted money worth Rs 500 crore was used during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. Besides, there was a sudden rise in bank transactions across the state between September 2013 and April 2014. Of approximately Rs 300 crore seized, about one-sixth of the amount was from the state. According to an ADR report, most parties show bulk of their funding from donations given by small unnamed benefactors with less than Rs 20,000 contribution each. The percentage of such unnamed contributors was over 90 per cent in case of the BSP. Both the SP and BSP have prepared a war chest of Rs 500 crore each for the polls, according to their own submission to the Election Commission. The BJP and the Congress clearly would be no less prepared. As per the ADR report, the BJP and BSP have the highest number of candidates with money power. Demonetisation will certainly affect poll expenses but the impact will depend on the financial strength of the candidates, said Sudhir Panwar, a farmer leader and social activist. A candidate cant spend more than Rs 70 lakh in a Lok Sabha election and Rs 28 lakh in Assembly polls. However, this limit is observed only in exceptional cases. Over 2,200 accounts of candidates and their associates were under observation during the 2014 elections. Arvind Mohan, a Lucknow-based economist, said, At present the currency circulation is to the tune of Rs 18 lakh crore of which around Rs 13.5 lakh crore roughly is in Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes. Now demonetisation will take away the sheen and shine of elections.
By PTI
MUMBAI: morning on a six-day visit to India to further strengthen bilateral ties.
Rivlin, who landed at the Mumbai airport with a large delegation of businessmen and academicians, will leave for Delhi today.
He will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and visit several sites of co-operation and joint projects between the two nations.
The Israeli leader will join President Pranab Mukherjee in opening an agro-tech conference in Chandigarh.
He will also pay his respects at the sites of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in Mumbai and lay wreaths at memorials for Mahatma Gandhi and for Indian soldiers, who fell in the World War-I.
Six Jews were killed at the Mumbai Chabad house during the Mumbai terror attacks on November 26, 2008.
Rivlin will also hold meetings with senior Indian officials and with leaders of the Jewish community.
"I am departing now on an important visit to India, an important ally and close friend of Israel, a state with whom we have much in common," Rivlin said before he boarded the flight to Mumbai.
"Israel and India are both countries of innovation and of inspiration. Countries that have ancient traditions, but have built strong and thriving hi-tech economies, and now celebrate 25 years of diplomatic relations.
This visit is a sign of the strong relations and friendship between our peoples, and I hope will plant the seeds for that friendship to grow closer and closer," he said.
The academic delegation accompanying Rivlin includes presidents and senior representatives of Israeli academic institutions, who are expected to sign separate agreements with Indian institutions.
MUMBAI: morning on a six-day visit to India to further strengthen bilateral ties. Rivlin, who landed at the Mumbai airport with a large delegation of businessmen and academicians, will leave for Delhi today. He will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and visit several sites of co-operation and joint projects between the two nations. The Israeli leader will join President Pranab Mukherjee in opening an agro-tech conference in Chandigarh. He will also pay his respects at the sites of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in Mumbai and lay wreaths at memorials for Mahatma Gandhi and for Indian soldiers, who fell in the World War-I. Six Jews were killed at the Mumbai Chabad house during the Mumbai terror attacks on November 26, 2008. Rivlin will also hold meetings with senior Indian officials and with leaders of the Jewish community. "I am departing now on an important visit to India, an important ally and close friend of Israel, a state with whom we have much in common," Rivlin said before he boarded the flight to Mumbai. "Israel and India are both countries of innovation and of inspiration. Countries that have ancient traditions, but have built strong and thriving hi-tech economies, and now celebrate 25 years of diplomatic relations. This visit is a sign of the strong relations and friendship between our peoples, and I hope will plant the seeds for that friendship to grow closer and closer," he said. The academic delegation accompanying Rivlin includes presidents and senior representatives of Israeli academic institutions, who are expected to sign separate agreements with Indian institutions.
By Express News Service
NEW DELHI: Israeli President Reuven Rivlin, first President of the Jew nation-state to come to India since 1996, landed in Mumbai on Monday with defence and trade ties on his mind.
During his six-day long visit in two decades, President Rivlin attended a ceremony at Taj Hotel that was attacked during the Mumbai terror attack on November 26, 2008 that claimed Jewish lives as well. Six Jews were killed when 10 gun wielding terrorists from Karachi landed on the shores of Indias commercial capital and also targeted Jewish locality in Chabad House. He also laid wreaths at Mahatma Gandhi memorials and Indian soldiers who scarified life during World War-I.
In an interview to the PTI, Rivlin also extended support to Indias fight against terrorism. Terror is terror is terror, whoever carries it out and whoever are its victims. And we all have the duty to condemn in our words, and fight with our deeds against this terrible evil, he added. India imports 50 percent of Israels total arms sale.
He arrived in Delhi late Monday evening and is scheduled to meet President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. Accompanied by a big delegation comprising of businessmen and academicians, President Rivlin has a busy itinerary that saw him traveling to Uttar Pradesh and Chandigarh. He will be accompanied by arm manufacturers who will be holding parleys with Indian government officials.
While embarking on his India trip, the Israeli President took to social networking site Twitter to tweet in Hind where he said: Rashtrapati Mukherjee ke nimantran par Udyog or shiksha jagat ke pratinidhimandal ke sath bharat ki rajakiya yatra pe ravana ho raha hun (Departing on a state visit to India at the invitation of President Mukherjee, with a delegation of industry, academic heads).
The Israeli President will be visiting some of the institutions that has been built with the help of Tel Aviv an Israeli Treatment plant in Agra and an Indo-Israeli Agricultural Projects Center of Excellence in Karnal. He will also be visiting Taj Mahal.
NEW DELHI: Israeli President Reuven Rivlin, first President of the Jew nation-state to come to India since 1996, landed in Mumbai on Monday with defence and trade ties on his mind. During his six-day long visit in two decades, President Rivlin attended a ceremony at Taj Hotel that was attacked during the Mumbai terror attack on November 26, 2008 that claimed Jewish lives as well. Six Jews were killed when 10 gun wielding terrorists from Karachi landed on the shores of Indias commercial capital and also targeted Jewish locality in Chabad House. He also laid wreaths at Mahatma Gandhi memorials and Indian soldiers who scarified life during World War-I. In an interview to the PTI, Rivlin also extended support to Indias fight against terrorism. Terror is terror is terror, whoever carries it out and whoever are its victims. And we all have the duty to condemn in our words, and fight with our deeds against this terrible evil, he added. India imports 50 percent of Israels total arms sale. He arrived in Delhi late Monday evening and is scheduled to meet President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. Accompanied by a big delegation comprising of businessmen and academicians, President Rivlin has a busy itinerary that saw him traveling to Uttar Pradesh and Chandigarh. He will be accompanied by arm manufacturers who will be holding parleys with Indian government officials. While embarking on his India trip, the Israeli President took to social networking site Twitter to tweet in Hind where he said: Rashtrapati Mukherjee ke nimantran par Udyog or shiksha jagat ke pratinidhimandal ke sath bharat ki rajakiya yatra pe ravana ho raha hun (Departing on a state visit to India at the invitation of President Mukherjee, with a delegation of industry, academic heads). The Israeli President will be visiting some of the institutions that has been built with the help of Tel Aviv an Israeli Treatment plant in Agra and an Indo-Israeli Agricultural Projects Center of Excellence in Karnal. He will also be visiting Taj Mahal.
By PTI
NEW DELHI: Friendship between India and Israel is at work day in, day out and is not a relationship we should be hiding, said Israeli President Reuven Rivlin as he pledged full support to India in fighting terrorism.
Rivlin arrived on Monday on an eight-day visit to India, the first by any Israeli President in nearly two decades.
In a wide ranging interview to PTI, the Israeli President acknowledged differences with India on the Palestinian issue but spoke warmly about the growing Indo-Israeli ties as the two countries prepare to celebrate 25 years of establishment of full diplomatic ties between them next year.
Pledging full support to India in fighting terrorism, Rivlin said that his country was proud to stand with India in its defence of the values of democracy.
Terror is terror is terror, whoever carries it out and whoever are its victims. And we all have the duty to condemn in our words, and fight with our deeds against this terrible evil, asserted the President, whose country is one of the biggest suppliers of defence equipment to India and is cooperating with it in a major way in dealing with terrorism.
Answering a question on murmurs in Israel that India keeps under wraps their relationship because of close ties with the Arab world and domestic political considerations, Rivlin said, Israel is proud of our friendship with India and I believe that India is proud of its friendship with Israel.
Again, this is not just a friendship of leaders and governments. It is a friendship between people in all walks of life, in all fields of study, in all areas of trade. This is not a friendship we should be hiding. This is a friendship that we see at work day in, day out, at the very forefront of building a better world for Israelis, for Indians, and for all peoples, he said.
India's support for independent Palestine
In reply to a question on India's continued support for an independent Palestine with east Jerusalem as its capital, Rivlin said, Friends may not always see eye to eye on everything, and as friends we can agree to disagree with respect and understanding.
Israel understands and indeed shares India's desire to see a just and lasting solution to the conflict between us and the Palestinians. But no solution that may ever be found has a chance of success lest we work now to build confidence between peoples, the President said, and asserted that Israel and Palestine need to work towards direct negotiations.
Rivlin, who is accompanied by a strong delegation of businessmen, will hold comprehensive talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow on key bilateral and regional issues.
The free trade agreement between the countries
On the long-pending free trade agreement (FTA), negotiations for which were launched nearly five years ago between India and Israel, Rivlin said it is a tool that can have huge impact and boost the partnership.
As the two sides build and cultivate the growing partnership, there is a need to seek ways to help business sectors to work together in an inviting environment, Rivlin said.
We need to supply them with the tools that will ease their way and will provide them incentives. An FTA is a tool that can have a huge impact and boost the partnership.
Both Israel's Ambassador in India, and India's new Ambassador to Israel are playing an important role in this, which is a matter in progress and I hope we can see it signed in the near future, the President said.
Visit to focus on agriculture, water and education
He also asserted that his visit was a chance not only tor eaffirm Israel's commitment to continue building on all that has been achieved in the past 25 years of diplomatic relations, but to look at ways the two countries can work together to stretch even further the boundaries of innovation and imagination.
Importantly, this visit will focus on three areas of this cooperation, namely agriculture, water and education.
These three areas in particular highlight what our two great nations are engaged in sowing the seeds for the future, he added.
During his meeting with Modi, Rivlin will reiterate his country's invitation to Prime Minister Modi.
Asserting that Indo-Israel was a growing partnership and there is still much potential to develop it further, Rivlin said Israel in particular has tremendous appreciation for the 'Make in India' initiative of Prime Minister Modi.
Israel is ready and committed motivated by our innovations and technological development to be India's partner in all areas....
Some of the key areas we will be focusing on during the visit will be; water treatment and conservation, solar power systems, technology in agriculture, and food production, the visiting President said.
Academic cooperation
Noting that his delegation included university heads and leading scholars, he said this was also a crucial area where he believed the cooperation could grow.
A great number of Indian students already study in Israel, and the rate of exchange and collaboration can be increased even further, he said, adding both Israel and India cherish the academic growth as two great historic civilizations and two of the great innovating nations of the modern age.
NEW DELHI: Friendship between India and Israel is at work day in, day out and is not a relationship we should be hiding, said Israeli President Reuven Rivlin as he pledged full support to India in fighting terrorism. Rivlin arrived on Monday on an eight-day visit to India, the first by any Israeli President in nearly two decades. In a wide ranging interview to PTI, the Israeli President acknowledged differences with India on the Palestinian issue but spoke warmly about the growing Indo-Israeli ties as the two countries prepare to celebrate 25 years of establishment of full diplomatic ties between them next year. Pledging full support to India in fighting terrorism, Rivlin said that his country was proud to stand with India in its defence of the values of democracy. Terror is terror is terror, whoever carries it out and whoever are its victims. And we all have the duty to condemn in our words, and fight with our deeds against this terrible evil, asserted the President, whose country is one of the biggest suppliers of defence equipment to India and is cooperating with it in a major way in dealing with terrorism. Answering a question on murmurs in Israel that India keeps under wraps their relationship because of close ties with the Arab world and domestic political considerations, Rivlin said, Israel is proud of our friendship with India and I believe that India is proud of its friendship with Israel. Again, this is not just a friendship of leaders and governments. It is a friendship between people in all walks of life, in all fields of study, in all areas of trade. This is not a friendship we should be hiding. This is a friendship that we see at work day in, day out, at the very forefront of building a better world for Israelis, for Indians, and for all peoples, he said.India's support for independent Palestine In reply to a question on India's continued support for an independent Palestine with east Jerusalem as its capital, Rivlin said, Friends may not always see eye to eye on everything, and as friends we can agree to disagree with respect and understanding. Israel understands and indeed shares India's desire to see a just and lasting solution to the conflict between us and the Palestinians. But no solution that may ever be found has a chance of success lest we work now to build confidence between peoples, the President said, and asserted that Israel and Palestine need to work towards direct negotiations. Rivlin, who is accompanied by a strong delegation of businessmen, will hold comprehensive talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow on key bilateral and regional issues. The free trade agreement between the countries On the long-pending free trade agreement (FTA), negotiations for which were launched nearly five years ago between India and Israel, Rivlin said it is a tool that can have huge impact and boost the partnership. As the two sides build and cultivate the growing partnership, there is a need to seek ways to help business sectors to work together in an inviting environment, Rivlin said. We need to supply them with the tools that will ease their way and will provide them incentives. An FTA is a tool that can have a huge impact and boost the partnership. Both Israel's Ambassador in India, and India's new Ambassador to Israel are playing an important role in this, which is a matter in progress and I hope we can see it signed in the near future, the President said. Visit to focus on agriculture, water and education He also asserted that his visit was a chance not only tor eaffirm Israel's commitment to continue building on all that has been achieved in the past 25 years of diplomatic relations, but to look at ways the two countries can work together to stretch even further the boundaries of innovation and imagination. Importantly, this visit will focus on three areas of this cooperation, namely agriculture, water and education. These three areas in particular highlight what our two great nations are engaged in sowing the seeds for the future, he added. During his meeting with Modi, Rivlin will reiterate his country's invitation to Prime Minister Modi. Asserting that Indo-Israel was a growing partnership and there is still much potential to develop it further, Rivlin said Israel in particular has tremendous appreciation for the 'Make in India' initiative of Prime Minister Modi. Israel is ready and committed motivated by our innovations and technological development to be India's partner in all areas.... Some of the key areas we will be focusing on during the visit will be; water treatment and conservation, solar power systems, technology in agriculture, and food production, the visiting President said. Academic cooperation Noting that his delegation included university heads and leading scholars, he said this was also a crucial area where he believed the cooperation could grow. A great number of Indian students already study in Israel, and the rate of exchange and collaboration can be increased even further, he said, adding both Israel and India cherish the academic growth as two great historic civilizations and two of the great innovating nations of the modern age.
Prasanta Mazumdar By
Express News Service
MECHUKHA: Amidst the chorus by people in parts of the country for boycott of Chinese goods, a fiercely patriotic Indian population on Chinas border in Arunachal Pradesh is eager to have supplies
from across for a decent living.
In heavily-militarised Mechukha, which boasts of Indias latest advanced landing ground (ALG) at an altitude of 6,200 feet, the locals have to travel as long as for eight hours to get essentials from Aalo, the district headquarters of West Siang. As such, they are demanding access to the markets of Tibet.
Aerially, Mechukha is 29km from the Tibetan border and 50km by road from Lola Pass. The road exists for 30km upto Lamang army and ITBP camps. Aalo is 186km from Mechukha, which is a sub-division of
West Siang. The Buddhists, who account for more than 30% of the population in Mechukha, shared a historic relationship with Tibet even before it was annexed by China.
Before 1947, we had easy access to Tibet. Our people used to go there to buy and sell goods. Their people also used to come to Mechukha for trade. Those days, the nearest Tibetan town, Gaja, was
four-five days walk for our parents and elders. Our miseries compounded manifold after India had attained independence as it brought an end to the border trade, KL Mosing, town panchayat member and Mechukha Bazaar Committee secretary, told Express.
From Mechukha, the nearest major Indian town is Aalo. Travelling there to buy essentials is not only taxing, it also entails an expenditure of Rs.1000 per person on transport. So, if we have access to
the Tibetan markets, it will surely mitigate our sufferings, he pointed out.
Not many people can afford to buy goods and other essential items in Mechukha as the traders sell them at exorbitant prices citing the cost of transport. The airstrip in Mechukha was built long back
but the solitary road that connects the town with Aalo is as good as non-existent. Ironically, it was built only a decade ago.
Kesang Goiba, president of village chieftains committee, too felt that border trade was the only way out.
Weve given a number of representations to the authorities for resumption of border trade. Disconnect with our Tibetan brothers (Menpa, Monpa, Khampa, Yuba and Kempa tribes are on either side of
the border) has made our lives harder. We need a road upto the border. There is tremendous demand in Tibet for our local liquor, sugar, bidi (not
cigarettes), Goiba said.
He said their forefathers used to barter sugar with Tibetan rock salt. Tibetans are often caught for straying across the border in search of Yarje Gomu, a prized insect which is believed to have
medicinal properties. Soup made from it is drunk for strength and youthful maintenance of body, he said.
The resumption of border trade would not only help us to buy goods at cheaper rates, it would also give us an opportunity to meet our relatives, said Koje Maling, a local BJP leader.
As per the 2011 census, Mechukha has a population of 13,310 of which some 5,000 are Buddhists. The rest are people belonging to indigenous Donyi Polo faith and Christians. The sub-division has just
one primary health centre, one higher secondary school, four upper primary schools, four private schools (upto class VIII) but no college. The nearest college is at Aalo. Surprisingly, there are just seven police personnel to maintain law and order.
MECHUKHA: Amidst the chorus by people in parts of the country for boycott of Chinese goods, a fiercely patriotic Indian population on Chinas border in Arunachal Pradesh is eager to have supplies from across for a decent living. In heavily-militarised Mechukha, which boasts of Indias latest advanced landing ground (ALG) at an altitude of 6,200 feet, the locals have to travel as long as for eight hours to get essentials from Aalo, the district headquarters of West Siang. As such, they are demanding access to the markets of Tibet. Aerially, Mechukha is 29km from the Tibetan border and 50km by road from Lola Pass. The road exists for 30km upto Lamang army and ITBP camps. Aalo is 186km from Mechukha, which is a sub-division of West Siang. The Buddhists, who account for more than 30% of the population in Mechukha, shared a historic relationship with Tibet even before it was annexed by China. Before 1947, we had easy access to Tibet. Our people used to go there to buy and sell goods. Their people also used to come to Mechukha for trade. Those days, the nearest Tibetan town, Gaja, was four-five days walk for our parents and elders. Our miseries compounded manifold after India had attained independence as it brought an end to the border trade, KL Mosing, town panchayat member and Mechukha Bazaar Committee secretary, told Express. From Mechukha, the nearest major Indian town is Aalo. Travelling there to buy essentials is not only taxing, it also entails an expenditure of Rs.1000 per person on transport. So, if we have access to the Tibetan markets, it will surely mitigate our sufferings, he pointed out. Not many people can afford to buy goods and other essential items in Mechukha as the traders sell them at exorbitant prices citing the cost of transport. The airstrip in Mechukha was built long back but the solitary road that connects the town with Aalo is as good as non-existent. Ironically, it was built only a decade ago. Kesang Goiba, president of village chieftains committee, too felt that border trade was the only way out. Weve given a number of representations to the authorities for resumption of border trade. Disconnect with our Tibetan brothers (Menpa, Monpa, Khampa, Yuba and Kempa tribes are on either side of the border) has made our lives harder. We need a road upto the border. There is tremendous demand in Tibet for our local liquor, sugar, bidi (not cigarettes), Goiba said. He said their forefathers used to barter sugar with Tibetan rock salt. Tibetans are often caught for straying across the border in search of Yarje Gomu, a prized insect which is believed to have medicinal properties. Soup made from it is drunk for strength and youthful maintenance of body, he said. The resumption of border trade would not only help us to buy goods at cheaper rates, it would also give us an opportunity to meet our relatives, said Koje Maling, a local BJP leader. As per the 2011 census, Mechukha has a population of 13,310 of which some 5,000 are Buddhists. The rest are people belonging to indigenous Donyi Polo faith and Christians. The sub-division has just one primary health centre, one higher secondary school, four upper primary schools, four private schools (upto class VIII) but no college. The nearest college is at Aalo. Surprisingly, there are just seven police personnel to maintain law and order.
By PTI
RAIPUR: A Maoist militia commander was today gunned down in an exchange of fire with security forces in Chhattisgarh's insurgency-hit Sukma district, police said.
The skirmish took place in the wee hours between District Reserve Group (DRG) and rebels in the jungles of Dornapal Police Station limits, Sukma Additional Superintendent of Police (Anti-naxal operations), Jitendra Shukla, told PTI.
Acting on a specific input about the presence of a group of armed ultras in the forest between Arlampalli and Medwahi villages, around 500 kms from here, a squad of DRG was dispatched to the location late last night, he said.
When the DRG party reached the target area in the early hours, they came under heavy fire from Maoist which led to gun-battle between both the sides, the ASP said.
However, ultras soon fled from the spot.
During the search, body of a naxal clad in 'uniform', a country made rifle, some 12 bore live ammunition, wire and other items were recovered from the spot, he said.
The killed Maoist has been identified as Vanjam Nanda, a very active Militia commander against whom at least 12 warrants issued by various courts in grave naxal offences were pending, the ASP said.
Nanda had served as the head of Janatana Sarkar group Maoists in Arlampalli, Medwahi, Tonguda and Toyapara villages of the region, he said.
RAIPUR: A Maoist militia commander was today gunned down in an exchange of fire with security forces in Chhattisgarh's insurgency-hit Sukma district, police said. The skirmish took place in the wee hours between District Reserve Group (DRG) and rebels in the jungles of Dornapal Police Station limits, Sukma Additional Superintendent of Police (Anti-naxal operations), Jitendra Shukla, told PTI. Acting on a specific input about the presence of a group of armed ultras in the forest between Arlampalli and Medwahi villages, around 500 kms from here, a squad of DRG was dispatched to the location late last night, he said. When the DRG party reached the target area in the early hours, they came under heavy fire from Maoist which led to gun-battle between both the sides, the ASP said. However, ultras soon fled from the spot. During the search, body of a naxal clad in 'uniform', a country made rifle, some 12 bore live ammunition, wire and other items were recovered from the spot, he said. The killed Maoist has been identified as Vanjam Nanda, a very active Militia commander against whom at least 12 warrants issued by various courts in grave naxal offences were pending, the ASP said. Nanda had served as the head of Janatana Sarkar group Maoists in Arlampalli, Medwahi, Tonguda and Toyapara villages of the region, he said.
By PTI
LATEHAR: A Naxal-hit village in Jharkhand has celebrated Diwali in its "true sense" this year as electricity has reached here for the first time.
Garu village, about 1,400 kms from New Delhi and 175 kms from the state capital Ranchi, comes under the jurisdiction of Latehar district which is among the most Naxal-infested areas of the state.
"We were waiting for electricity for a long time. Government representatives had been assuring us of providing electricity for a long while but finally this year only, we experienced it," says Shiv Shankar Singh, Garu village head.
"Farming has improved after electricity came here as we don't need to bother about buying diesel. Though the voltage is low, people are happy with the step," Sukhdev Oraon, a village council member, said.
Garu village had long been ignored in development schemes as Naxals were not allowing any work to be undertaken by carrying out attacks.
"As Naxals were opposed to any kind of development in the area, no private builder was ready to take the contract. It is only after the CRPF gave them assurance about the safety and security, they started building roads," Ramesh Kumar, Commandant of 112th battalion of CRPF said.
This also allowed other development works in the area.
"Our armed troops used to provide them cover so that Naxals could not attack or hamper the work. Now, the entire area is well connected with the road," Kumar said.
"We try to create as mush trust among people for security forces as we can. We approach people and involve them in our planning. We distribute our numbers and remain in touch with them," he added.
Ram Lal Prasad, MLA representative of Garu, says there has been a lot of change after CRPF came in the area.
"This is the first time that Garu village has got electricity. People here celebrated Diwali for the first time in a true sense," Sanjay Prasad, a local resident, said.
"You can imagine how people feel here as some elderly said their life is successful as they got to see how a bulb works," said Sudhir Yadav, a villager.
LATEHAR: A Naxal-hit village in Jharkhand has celebrated Diwali in its "true sense" this year as electricity has reached here for the first time. Garu village, about 1,400 kms from New Delhi and 175 kms from the state capital Ranchi, comes under the jurisdiction of Latehar district which is among the most Naxal-infested areas of the state. "We were waiting for electricity for a long time. Government representatives had been assuring us of providing electricity for a long while but finally this year only, we experienced it," says Shiv Shankar Singh, Garu village head. "Farming has improved after electricity came here as we don't need to bother about buying diesel. Though the voltage is low, people are happy with the step," Sukhdev Oraon, a village council member, said. Garu village had long been ignored in development schemes as Naxals were not allowing any work to be undertaken by carrying out attacks. "As Naxals were opposed to any kind of development in the area, no private builder was ready to take the contract. It is only after the CRPF gave them assurance about the safety and security, they started building roads," Ramesh Kumar, Commandant of 112th battalion of CRPF said. This also allowed other development works in the area. "Our armed troops used to provide them cover so that Naxals could not attack or hamper the work. Now, the entire area is well connected with the road," Kumar said. "We try to create as mush trust among people for security forces as we can. We approach people and involve them in our planning. We distribute our numbers and remain in touch with them," he added. Ram Lal Prasad, MLA representative of Garu, says there has been a lot of change after CRPF came in the area. "This is the first time that Garu village has got electricity. People here celebrated Diwali for the first time in a true sense," Sanjay Prasad, a local resident, said. "You can imagine how people feel here as some elderly said their life is successful as they got to see how a bulb works," said Sudhir Yadav, a villager.
By PTI
JAMMU: Pakistani troops today resorted to shelling and firing on Indian posts in four sectors along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu, Rajouri and Poonch districts of Jammu and Kashmir, in which two persons including a jawan were injured.
"There have been unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistani Army in Sunderbani and Naushera sectors of Rajouri district and Pallanwala sector of Jammu district," a defence spokesman said.
Pakistani troops used 82mm mortar bombs and automatic weapons on Indian positions from 1440 hours in these sectors, he said.
A 67-year-old resident, Mangat Ram, was injured in Pakistani shelling in Khour area in Pallanwala sector, Jammu Deputy Commissioner Simrandeep Singh said. Pakistani troops also resorted firing along LoC in Khadi area of Poonch district, according to reports.
One jawan was injured in the firing in Poonch. The defence spokesman said the Indian troops gave "befitting reply" to Pakistani firing. The violations of the ceasefire came after a lull of a few days on the border. On November 12, an army jawan was killed in Pakistani firing in Keran sector of north Kashmir's Kupwara district.
On November 10, another jawan, Satnam Singh, was killed in snipper shots from across the LoC in Machail sector of North Kashmir. On November 8, two army jawans were killed in firing and shelling along LoC in Naushera sector of Rajouri district. On November 6, two army jawans were killed and five others -- two soldiers, a BSF officer and two women -- were injured as Pakistani army opened fire in an attempt to facilitate two infiltration bids along the LoC in Krishna Ghati and Poonch sectors of Poonch district.
The worst-ever Pakistani shelling targeting civil population took place on November 1 when eight persons, including two children and four women, were killed and 22 others injured along the IB and the LoC in five sectors of J&K, forcing Indian troops to give befitting reply by destroying 14 Pakistani posts and killing two of their troopers.
The 2003 India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement has virtually become redundant with a whopping 286 incidents of firing and shelling along LoC and IB in Jammu and Kashmir by Pakistani troops that resulted in death of 26 people, including 14 security personnel, since the surgical strike on terrorist launch pads in PoK.
There have been 186 ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops along the over 190km International Border (IB) in Jammu frontier, while 104 violations of the agreement took place along the over 500km Line of Control (LoC).
JAMMU: Pakistani troops today resorted to shelling and firing on Indian posts in four sectors along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu, Rajouri and Poonch districts of Jammu and Kashmir, in which two persons including a jawan were injured. "There have been unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistani Army in Sunderbani and Naushera sectors of Rajouri district and Pallanwala sector of Jammu district," a defence spokesman said. Pakistani troops used 82mm mortar bombs and automatic weapons on Indian positions from 1440 hours in these sectors, he said. A 67-year-old resident, Mangat Ram, was injured in Pakistani shelling in Khour area in Pallanwala sector, Jammu Deputy Commissioner Simrandeep Singh said. Pakistani troops also resorted firing along LoC in Khadi area of Poonch district, according to reports. One jawan was injured in the firing in Poonch. The defence spokesman said the Indian troops gave "befitting reply" to Pakistani firing. The violations of the ceasefire came after a lull of a few days on the border. On November 12, an army jawan was killed in Pakistani firing in Keran sector of north Kashmir's Kupwara district. On November 10, another jawan, Satnam Singh, was killed in snipper shots from across the LoC in Machail sector of North Kashmir. On November 8, two army jawans were killed in firing and shelling along LoC in Naushera sector of Rajouri district. On November 6, two army jawans were killed and five others -- two soldiers, a BSF officer and two women -- were injured as Pakistani army opened fire in an attempt to facilitate two infiltration bids along the LoC in Krishna Ghati and Poonch sectors of Poonch district. The worst-ever Pakistani shelling targeting civil population took place on November 1 when eight persons, including two children and four women, were killed and 22 others injured along the IB and the LoC in five sectors of J&K, forcing Indian troops to give befitting reply by destroying 14 Pakistani posts and killing two of their troopers. The 2003 India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement has virtually become redundant with a whopping 286 incidents of firing and shelling along LoC and IB in Jammu and Kashmir by Pakistani troops that resulted in death of 26 people, including 14 security personnel, since the surgical strike on terrorist launch pads in PoK. There have been 186 ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops along the over 190km International Border (IB) in Jammu frontier, while 104 violations of the agreement took place along the over 500km Line of Control (LoC).
Captain Yu Xu, one of the first Chinese female fighter jet pilots, died in an accident on Saturday morning.[Photo/Xinhua]
Yu Xu, 30, the first woman to become a pilot of J-10 fighter jets, dreamed of one day becoming an astronaut.
That dream came to an abrupt end on Saturday when her plane crashed in North China's Hebei Province.
According to media reports, after she ejected, Yu's parachute hit the wing of another plane as her jet plunged to the ground during an aerobatic training flight. Yu's co-pilot managed to eject in time and survived. The second plane landed safely.
As one of only four female pilots in the country capable of flying domestically made fighter jets, her death comes as a tremendous loss to the Chinese air force.
People's Liberation Army (PLA) air force spokesperson Shen Jinke said Saturday that all air force service personnel deeply regrets her loss and are mourning Yu's death, adding that the air force will continue training at the highest standards.
Tens of thousands of Chinese netizens held a virtual vigil for Yu on Sina Weibo as the incident became the No.1 search item on the social media platform over the weekend.
Her death sparked online speculation over the cause of the accident, which is still under investigation, and whether being a pilot is a "man's job." But a considerable number of female Net users said they are inspired by Yu's work and view her as a pioneer in breaking the glass ceiling of gender inequality.
Dicing with death
Despite speculation that the J-10 jet Yu was piloting was functionally unstable, analysts said it is too early to ascertain the cause of the crash.
Wang Ya'nan, an aviation expert, described aerobatic performances as "dicing with death" and said pilots face considerable risks, even in training. "Usually pilots are trained to avoid risks but aerobatic pilots are trained to take more," Wang told the Global Times.
No details of the accident have been officially released yet.
Wang refuted online rumors that women are not cut out for the work, adding that there is no evidence to show that female pilots are physically unfit for aerobatic stunts.
"China is a pioneer in training female aerobatic pilots. When the program started, there was no foreign experience to borrow from or statistics to rely on from other countries. From this perspective, Yu Xu and other female aerobatic pilots have taken greater risks, which deserve more of our respect," Wang noted.
Yu's death has sparked old stereotypes saying women are physically weak or have slower response times and should never be made pilots.
"I believe that any progress of humankind is based on difficult and even dangerous accumulations made by generations. Yu and many other female predecessors have explored an uncharted territory and what we need to do is to courageously march on, which is the best commemoration for her sacrifice," read one comment by female netizen Yuwenduling, which received hundreds of likes on Weibo.
Stunt specialist
Born in 1986 in Chongzhou, Southwest China's Sichuan Province, Yu joined the PLA air force in September 2005. She was in the eighth generation of female pilots in China, and flew a fighter jet over Tiananmen Square during the National Day parade on October 1, 2009.
As a member of the August 1 aerobatics team of the PLA air force, Yu made her last public appearance at Airshow China in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, earlier this month when she performed in an aerobatic flight show alongside the other 14 pilots in the team.
After China debuted its new J-20 stealth fighter at the air show, Yu told reporters with excitement and eagerness that she wondered what it would feel like to pilot the new aircraft.
There have been a number of other crashes in PLA air force training exercises, although most were not publicly reported, so an exact figure is not known. In December 2012, a J-7 fighter jet crashed in Shantou, Guangdong Province, due to mechanical failure, injuring four civilians as the pilot successfully ejected.
The most deadly aero accident in PLA history took place in June 2006 when a KJ-200 plane crashed in East China's Anhui Province, killing all 40 passengers, including five test flight pilots and 34 military electrical engineers.
Anand ST Das By
Express News Service
PATNA: Battling a flood of criticism against the controversial total prohibition law he implemented in Bihar seven months ago, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday hinted at amendments to the laws draconian penal provisions after listening to the views of 37 people in the first-ever dialogue on the issue.
The government is moving in a logical way on this (laws implementation)... There is no law that cannot be amended, said Kumar after the lok samvad (public dialogue) programme at the secretariat. Sources said Kumars statement, which indicated a change of stance on the need for stringent penal provisions, came after many participants voiced their displeasure about such too harsh measures. Kumar is likely to convene an all-party meeting on the prohibition issue on November 22, said sources close to him.
The brainstorming session followed the Bihar governments call for suggestions and feedback from the public on the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act, 2016 between November 1 and 12. After receiving over 1,100 responses from across the state, the government invited 50 responders for the programme, but 37 attended.
Significantly, most participants spoke about the collusion of police in letting illegal liquor sales continue clandestinely across the state. The CM is learnt to have taken a serious note of this point. Many participants spoke against draconian provisions in the law like the arrest of all adult members of a family if a liquor bottle is found in their house and imposition of fine on an entire village if liquor is found in any house there, said sources. The penal provisions of the law were described by many participants as too harsh and akin to those for rape and murder, they added.
In-depth discussions were held on salient features and provisions of the states prohibition policy. Opinions with a wide variety were received and discussed. They have been recorded. The (excise) department would study those opinions, said home secretary Amir Subhani.
The participants, he said, were from diverse social and vocational sections and included lawyers, media professionals, retired senior officials, Indian Medical Association officials and functionaries of Indian Cancer Awareness Society.
Deputy chief minister Tejaswi Yadav said the government would consider all the diverse views received at the programme. It was a very good opportunity for the people to air their considered views on the prohibition law. All these views will be considered soon, he added.
A discordant clink
Despite Bihar CM Nitish Kumar on Monday indicating a softening of stance on draconian measures in the controversial prohibition law, the states excise and prohibition minister Abdul Jalil Mastan said the present law needs to be strengthened further. Most participants in the public dialogue also expressed this opinion. There is a need to increase the minimum jail term to more than 10 years, said Mastan, an MLA from ruling ally Congress, in what appears to be an instance of inadequate coherence in Kumars cabinet.
PATNA: Battling a flood of criticism against the controversial total prohibition law he implemented in Bihar seven months ago, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday hinted at amendments to the laws draconian penal provisions after listening to the views of 37 people in the first-ever dialogue on the issue. The government is moving in a logical way on this (laws implementation)... There is no law that cannot be amended, said Kumar after the lok samvad (public dialogue) programme at the secretariat. Sources said Kumars statement, which indicated a change of stance on the need for stringent penal provisions, came after many participants voiced their displeasure about such too harsh measures. Kumar is likely to convene an all-party meeting on the prohibition issue on November 22, said sources close to him. The brainstorming session followed the Bihar governments call for suggestions and feedback from the public on the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act, 2016 between November 1 and 12. After receiving over 1,100 responses from across the state, the government invited 50 responders for the programme, but 37 attended. Significantly, most participants spoke about the collusion of police in letting illegal liquor sales continue clandestinely across the state. The CM is learnt to have taken a serious note of this point. Many participants spoke against draconian provisions in the law like the arrest of all adult members of a family if a liquor bottle is found in their house and imposition of fine on an entire village if liquor is found in any house there, said sources. The penal provisions of the law were described by many participants as too harsh and akin to those for rape and murder, they added. In-depth discussions were held on salient features and provisions of the states prohibition policy. Opinions with a wide variety were received and discussed. They have been recorded. The (excise) department would study those opinions, said home secretary Amir Subhani. The participants, he said, were from diverse social and vocational sections and included lawyers, media professionals, retired senior officials, Indian Medical Association officials and functionaries of Indian Cancer Awareness Society. Deputy chief minister Tejaswi Yadav said the government would consider all the diverse views received at the programme. It was a very good opportunity for the people to air their considered views on the prohibition law. All these views will be considered soon, he added. A discordant clink Despite Bihar CM Nitish Kumar on Monday indicating a softening of stance on draconian measures in the controversial prohibition law, the states excise and prohibition minister Abdul Jalil Mastan said the present law needs to be strengthened further. Most participants in the public dialogue also expressed this opinion. There is a need to increase the minimum jail term to more than 10 years, said Mastan, an MLA from ruling ally Congress, in what appears to be an instance of inadequate coherence in Kumars cabinet.
Harpreet Bajwa By
Express News Service
CHANDIGARH: US-based rights group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) has urged Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal to pass a resolution in the Special Assembly Session on Wednesday to challenge the Supreme Courts verdict on the Sutlej Yamuna Link (SYL) Canal before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in Hague. Meanwhile, to prevent any law and order situation, the Rapid Action Force (RAF) was on Sunday deployed on the Punjab-Haryana border even as it was sealed and patrolling increased on National Highway-1.
In a communique to Badal, SFJ said that with the November 10 decision of the Supreme Court on the SYL Canal, the people of Punjab have exhausted all legal remedies available under the judicial system to secure their riparian rights over the water resources of their homeland. Now, the only recourse left for the people to secure their riparian rights is to challenge the courts decision before the International Court of Justice, it said. If the Punjab government fails to take up the SYL case before the ICJ, SFJ with the support of the people of Punjab will challenge the Supreme Courts decision before the International Court in Hague, said attorney Gurpatwant Singh Pannu.
Four companies of the RAF have been deployed at Rajpura, Patiala, Fatehgarh Sahib and Mohali in Punjab. One company will keep a check at Kapuri, the source of the SYL Canal and Shambu barrier on the Punjab-Haryana border, the other at Fatehgarh Sahib will monitor the movement on NH-1 and the SYL Canal area in Ropar.
Meanwhile, Haryana has suspended operations of its buses plying to Punjab on long routes for security reasons. The buses from the neighbouring State are plying only on short routes. Punjab CM Badal has urged his Haryana counterpart M L Khattar to resume the bus services.
Khaps in Haryana, who had earlier threatened to delink Punjab from Delhi by blocking road and rail networks, have now decided that on Wednesday they will meet Khattar and request him to get them an appointment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi for implementation of the Supreme Court verdict on the SYL issue.
In a related development, Punjab Congress, led by Capt Amarinder Singh, on Sunday vowed to protect the last drop of the States water, declaring that not even a single drop would be allowed to leave the State till their last breath. Addressing a rally at Khuian Sarwar village, close to Abohar the tail-end of the SYL Canal Amarinder dared the Akalis to quit the Assembly and face the Congress in the Assembly elections, which he said should be held in December itself to prevent Badal from further vitiating the atmosphere in the State.
On the CMs assertion that he was ready to face the bullet in order to protect the waters of Punjab, Amarinder said Badal had, even back in 1984, made such claims, but when the time came to fight for Punjab he went into hiding in his Uttar Pradesh farms, leaving the people to fend for themselves. Pointing out that 10 lakh acres of land, farmed by 2 lakh families and supported by another 2 lakh farm labourers, depended on agriculture in Punjab, he said implementation of the SYL verdict would ruin them all.
Amarinder also lashed out at AAP boss and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for failing to clarify, even three days after the SYL Canal verdict, whether he stands with Punjab on the
vital issue.
CHANDIGARH: US-based rights group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) has urged Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal to pass a resolution in the Special Assembly Session on Wednesday to challenge the Supreme Courts verdict on the Sutlej Yamuna Link (SYL) Canal before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in Hague. Meanwhile, to prevent any law and order situation, the Rapid Action Force (RAF) was on Sunday deployed on the Punjab-Haryana border even as it was sealed and patrolling increased on National Highway-1. In a communique to Badal, SFJ said that with the November 10 decision of the Supreme Court on the SYL Canal, the people of Punjab have exhausted all legal remedies available under the judicial system to secure their riparian rights over the water resources of their homeland. Now, the only recourse left for the people to secure their riparian rights is to challenge the courts decision before the International Court of Justice, it said. If the Punjab government fails to take up the SYL case before the ICJ, SFJ with the support of the people of Punjab will challenge the Supreme Courts decision before the International Court in Hague, said attorney Gurpatwant Singh Pannu. Four companies of the RAF have been deployed at Rajpura, Patiala, Fatehgarh Sahib and Mohali in Punjab. One company will keep a check at Kapuri, the source of the SYL Canal and Shambu barrier on the Punjab-Haryana border, the other at Fatehgarh Sahib will monitor the movement on NH-1 and the SYL Canal area in Ropar. Meanwhile, Haryana has suspended operations of its buses plying to Punjab on long routes for security reasons. The buses from the neighbouring State are plying only on short routes. Punjab CM Badal has urged his Haryana counterpart M L Khattar to resume the bus services. Khaps in Haryana, who had earlier threatened to delink Punjab from Delhi by blocking road and rail networks, have now decided that on Wednesday they will meet Khattar and request him to get them an appointment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi for implementation of the Supreme Court verdict on the SYL issue. In a related development, Punjab Congress, led by Capt Amarinder Singh, on Sunday vowed to protect the last drop of the States water, declaring that not even a single drop would be allowed to leave the State till their last breath. Addressing a rally at Khuian Sarwar village, close to Abohar the tail-end of the SYL Canal Amarinder dared the Akalis to quit the Assembly and face the Congress in the Assembly elections, which he said should be held in December itself to prevent Badal from further vitiating the atmosphere in the State. On the CMs assertion that he was ready to face the bullet in order to protect the waters of Punjab, Amarinder said Badal had, even back in 1984, made such claims, but when the time came to fight for Punjab he went into hiding in his Uttar Pradesh farms, leaving the people to fend for themselves. Pointing out that 10 lakh acres of land, farmed by 2 lakh families and supported by another 2 lakh farm labourers, depended on agriculture in Punjab, he said implementation of the SYL verdict would ruin them all. Amarinder also lashed out at AAP boss and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for failing to clarify, even three days after the SYL Canal verdict, whether he stands with Punjab on the vital issue.
Harpreet Bajwa By
Express News Service
CHANDIGARH: US-based rights group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) has urged Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal to pass a resolution in the Special Assembly Session on Wednesday to challenge the Supreme Courts verdict on the Sutlej Yamuna Link (SYL) Canal before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in Hague.
Meanwhile, to prevent any law and order situation, the Rapid Action Force (RAF) was on Sunday deployed on the Punjab-Haryana border even as it was sealed and patrolling increased on National Highway-1.
In a communique to Badal, SFJ said that with the November 10 decision of the Supreme Court on the SYL Canal, the people of Punjab have exhausted all legal remedies available under the judicial system to secure their riparian rights over the water resources of their homeland. Now, the only recourse left for the people to secure their riparian rights is to challenge the courts decision before the International Court of Justice, it said. If the Punjab government fails to take up the SYL case before the ICJ, SFJ with the support of the people of Punjab will challenge the Supreme Courts decision before the International Court in Hague, said attorney Gurpatwant Singh Pannu.
Four companies of the RAF have been deployed at Rajpura, Patiala, Fatehgarh Sahib and Mohali in Punjab. One company will keep a check at Kapuri, the source of the SYL Canal and Shambu barrier on the Punjab-Haryana border, the other at Fatehgarh Sahib will monitor the movement on NH-1 and the SYL Canal area in Ropar. Meanwhile, Haryana has suspended operations of its buses plying to Punjab on long routes for security reasons. The buses from the neighbouring State are plying only on short routes. Punjab CM Badal has urged his Haryana counterpart M L Khattar to resume the bus services.
Khaps in Haryana, who had earlier threatened to delink Punjab from Delhi by blocking road and rail networks, have now decided that on Wednesday they will meet Khattar and request him to get them an appointment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi for implementation of the Supreme Court verdict on the SYL issue. In a related development, Punjab Congress, led by Capt Amarinder Singh, on Sunday vowed to protect the last drop of the States water, declaring that not even a single drop would be allowed to leave the State till their last breath.
Addressing a rally at Khuian Sarwar village, close to Abohar the tail-end of the SYL Canal Amarinder dared the Akalis to quit the Assembly and face the Congress in the Assembly elections, which he said should be held in December itself to prevent Badal from further vitiating the atmosphere in the State. On the CMs assertion that he was ready to face the bullet in order to protect the waters of Punjab, Amarinder said Badal had, even back in 1984, made such claims, but when the time came to fight for Punjab he went into hiding in his Uttar Pradesh farms, leaving the people to fend for themselves. Pointing out that 10 lakh acres of land, farmed by 2 lakh families and supported by another 2 lakh farm labourers, depended on agriculture in Punjab, he said implementation of the SYL verdict would ruin them all.
Amarinder also lashed out at AAP boss and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for failing to clarify, even three days after the SYL Canal verdict, whether he stands with Punjab on the vital issue.
CHANDIGARH: US-based rights group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) has urged Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal to pass a resolution in the Special Assembly Session on Wednesday to challenge the Supreme Courts verdict on the Sutlej Yamuna Link (SYL) Canal before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in Hague. Meanwhile, to prevent any law and order situation, the Rapid Action Force (RAF) was on Sunday deployed on the Punjab-Haryana border even as it was sealed and patrolling increased on National Highway-1. In a communique to Badal, SFJ said that with the November 10 decision of the Supreme Court on the SYL Canal, the people of Punjab have exhausted all legal remedies available under the judicial system to secure their riparian rights over the water resources of their homeland. Now, the only recourse left for the people to secure their riparian rights is to challenge the courts decision before the International Court of Justice, it said. If the Punjab government fails to take up the SYL case before the ICJ, SFJ with the support of the people of Punjab will challenge the Supreme Courts decision before the International Court in Hague, said attorney Gurpatwant Singh Pannu. Four companies of the RAF have been deployed at Rajpura, Patiala, Fatehgarh Sahib and Mohali in Punjab. One company will keep a check at Kapuri, the source of the SYL Canal and Shambu barrier on the Punjab-Haryana border, the other at Fatehgarh Sahib will monitor the movement on NH-1 and the SYL Canal area in Ropar. Meanwhile, Haryana has suspended operations of its buses plying to Punjab on long routes for security reasons. The buses from the neighbouring State are plying only on short routes. Punjab CM Badal has urged his Haryana counterpart M L Khattar to resume the bus services. Khaps in Haryana, who had earlier threatened to delink Punjab from Delhi by blocking road and rail networks, have now decided that on Wednesday they will meet Khattar and request him to get them an appointment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi for implementation of the Supreme Court verdict on the SYL issue. In a related development, Punjab Congress, led by Capt Amarinder Singh, on Sunday vowed to protect the last drop of the States water, declaring that not even a single drop would be allowed to leave the State till their last breath. Addressing a rally at Khuian Sarwar village, close to Abohar the tail-end of the SYL Canal Amarinder dared the Akalis to quit the Assembly and face the Congress in the Assembly elections, which he said should be held in December itself to prevent Badal from further vitiating the atmosphere in the State. On the CMs assertion that he was ready to face the bullet in order to protect the waters of Punjab, Amarinder said Badal had, even back in 1984, made such claims, but when the time came to fight for Punjab he went into hiding in his Uttar Pradesh farms, leaving the people to fend for themselves. Pointing out that 10 lakh acres of land, farmed by 2 lakh families and supported by another 2 lakh farm labourers, depended on agriculture in Punjab, he said implementation of the SYL verdict would ruin them all. Amarinder also lashed out at AAP boss and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for failing to clarify, even three days after the SYL Canal verdict, whether he stands with Punjab on the vital issue.
Prasanta Mazumdar By
Express News Service
GUWAHATI: Demonetisation sent ripples across the country within minutes of the announcement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the evening of November 8 but it took three days for the ripples to reach this town on the border with China in Arunachal Pradesh.
Except for staff of the lone SBI branch here and perhaps a few officials in the administration and some defence personnel, nobody had a whiff of what the Prime Minister announced for two days and business went on as usual.
Perched at an altitude of 6,200 feet 29 km as the crow flies from the Tibetan border, Mechukha is a sub-division in West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh. It has 160 villages with a population of 13,200. The nearest Indian town from Mechukha is the district headquarters of Aalo, which is 190 km downhill. The state capital Itanagar is 492 km away. There is an airstrip here, built years ago for the defence forces, which is used by the private helicopter service provider Skyone Airways to ferry passengers at times. The solitary road, built a decade ago, that connects Mechukha to Aalo is as good as non-existent.
There is no ATM in the town. So the only place people could have gone to upon learning of the demonetization of big notes was the SBI branch here. Nobody knew about the countrywide closure of banks on November 9 and 10 and so there was no rush of customers to exchange their Rs 500 and Rs 1000 currency notes. It was only on November 11 that news filtered in and people made a beeline to the SBI branch.
For most people the import of the news came from people they knew in Guwahati. But then only BSNL works here and the lines are down almost the whole day. On the day the Prime Minister made his announcement, Mechukha went to sleep innocent of the decision. The few people who knew of the demonetization had no trouble using their high-value currency notes the next morning.
The situation has changed totally since then, and the economy of the border town has turned topsy turvy. On the telephone from Mechukha, Kesang Goiba, the president of the Mechukha village chieftains committee, told this correspondent that most of the shops and commercial establishments have remained shut for the past three days. "We learnt of it (demonetization) on November 11. Since then, we have been visiting the SBI branch but they are telling us there is no change. We are going through a very difficult time," he said.
Goiba added, "There is no business at all. Most of the shops are closed. We are bartering rations and vegetables with neighbours. We don't know for how long we will have to go through this agony," he said.
GUWAHATI: Demonetisation sent ripples across the country within minutes of the announcement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the evening of November 8 but it took three days for the ripples to reach this town on the border with China in Arunachal Pradesh. Except for staff of the lone SBI branch here and perhaps a few officials in the administration and some defence personnel, nobody had a whiff of what the Prime Minister announced for two days and business went on as usual. Perched at an altitude of 6,200 feet 29 km as the crow flies from the Tibetan border, Mechukha is a sub-division in West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh. It has 160 villages with a population of 13,200. The nearest Indian town from Mechukha is the district headquarters of Aalo, which is 190 km downhill. The state capital Itanagar is 492 km away. There is an airstrip here, built years ago for the defence forces, which is used by the private helicopter service provider Skyone Airways to ferry passengers at times. The solitary road, built a decade ago, that connects Mechukha to Aalo is as good as non-existent. There is no ATM in the town. So the only place people could have gone to upon learning of the demonetization of big notes was the SBI branch here. Nobody knew about the countrywide closure of banks on November 9 and 10 and so there was no rush of customers to exchange their Rs 500 and Rs 1000 currency notes. It was only on November 11 that news filtered in and people made a beeline to the SBI branch. For most people the import of the news came from people they knew in Guwahati. But then only BSNL works here and the lines are down almost the whole day. On the day the Prime Minister made his announcement, Mechukha went to sleep innocent of the decision. The few people who knew of the demonetization had no trouble using their high-value currency notes the next morning. The situation has changed totally since then, and the economy of the border town has turned topsy turvy. On the telephone from Mechukha, Kesang Goiba, the president of the Mechukha village chieftains committee, told this correspondent that most of the shops and commercial establishments have remained shut for the past three days. "We learnt of it (demonetization) on November 11. Since then, we have been visiting the SBI branch but they are telling us there is no change. We are going through a very difficult time," he said. Goiba added, "There is no business at all. Most of the shops are closed. We are bartering rations and vegetables with neighbours. We don't know for how long we will have to go through this agony," he said.
Vikram Sharma By
Express News Service
RS PURA: Around 12 noon on Nov. 1, Pakistan rained 80 mm and 120 mm mortar shells on Chanana, a village of 220 families on the international border. Shrapnel flew in from all directions, damaging property, killing cattle and injuring some people.
One such shell landed on the terrace of Girdharilal's house but did not explode. It has remained like that for the last 15 days. And now Girdharilal lives in dread: it can explode any moment, destory his house and kill his family.
"We informed the tehsildar, the police and the Army. They promised that the bomb disposal team would come. But 15 days have passed by and there is no sign of anyone coming. There have been instances of shells exploding a month or two later, says Raghubeer Singh, sarpanch of the nearby Changia village as Girdharilal and his family nod in agreement.
Girdharilal says his biggest worry are the children. "We have to keep a watch on the kids. The shell can explode if anyone touches it, he says.
When no help came from the authorities, the family decided to do something about the shell on their terrace. Girdharilal and his wife put sandbags around the shell and built a small gate at one end of the staircase to stop children from going up to the terrace.
"But we are scared," says Girdharilal. "If it goes off, it can do terrible damage. The house can collapse, says his wife.
Girdharilal is not alone in his predicament. Other villagers subjected to Pakistan's frequent shelling share it. Not far from Gardharilal's house, a shells landed in the house of farmer Bhim Singh and burying itself in the earth. It did not explode and remains that way. "What can I do? For the last 15 days, all of us have been living with this live shell in our midst. It cannot get worse than this. We are used to shelling and firing by Pakistan but this is torture, says Bheem Singh.
Take the case of another farmer, Rajesh Kumar. One shell pierced through the terrace and landed in a room where he stocks his harvest. "I have locked that room. The feeling of living with a live shell is terrible. The kind of damage shrapnel can do is mind-boggling. The splinters can pierce through iron gates and walls, he says.
Though Pakistan shelled several villages on the Jammu frontier on November 1, the Arnia sector witnessed maximum shelling. Other border villages in places like Ramgarh, Poonch and Rajauri too were pounded and there were casualties, but no where did live shells create such a fear as in Arnia.
Sarpanch Raghubeer Singh says he has acquaintances in the police and Army but none bothered to come to the rescue of the villagers. There are live shells lying in many farms in the area and farmers are afraid of going to their lands. As a result, production of basmati rice in RS Pura is getting badly affected.
"There is nothing anyone can do," says Jindo Devi, whose house was damaged when a shell exploded right in front of it, with splinters piercing through the iron gates and doors and smashing window panes. "We cannot abandon our houses and our cattle, she says, showing the splinters.
A police official in Arnia police station, requesting anonymity said a bomd disposal teams would defuse the shells soon though he did not specify how soon.
RS PURA: Around 12 noon on Nov. 1, Pakistan rained 80 mm and 120 mm mortar shells on Chanana, a village of 220 families on the international border. Shrapnel flew in from all directions, damaging property, killing cattle and injuring some people. One such shell landed on the terrace of Girdharilal's house but did not explode. It has remained like that for the last 15 days. And now Girdharilal lives in dread: it can explode any moment, destory his house and kill his family. "We informed the tehsildar, the police and the Army. They promised that the bomb disposal team would come. But 15 days have passed by and there is no sign of anyone coming. There have been instances of shells exploding a month or two later, says Raghubeer Singh, sarpanch of the nearby Changia village as Girdharilal and his family nod in agreement. Girdharilal says his biggest worry are the children. "We have to keep a watch on the kids. The shell can explode if anyone touches it, he says. When no help came from the authorities, the family decided to do something about the shell on their terrace. Girdharilal and his wife put sandbags around the shell and built a small gate at one end of the staircase to stop children from going up to the terrace. "But we are scared," says Girdharilal. "If it goes off, it can do terrible damage. The house can collapse, says his wife. Girdharilal is not alone in his predicament. Other villagers subjected to Pakistan's frequent shelling share it. Not far from Gardharilal's house, a shells landed in the house of farmer Bhim Singh and burying itself in the earth. It did not explode and remains that way. "What can I do? For the last 15 days, all of us have been living with this live shell in our midst. It cannot get worse than this. We are used to shelling and firing by Pakistan but this is torture, says Bheem Singh. Take the case of another farmer, Rajesh Kumar. One shell pierced through the terrace and landed in a room where he stocks his harvest. "I have locked that room. The feeling of living with a live shell is terrible. The kind of damage shrapnel can do is mind-boggling. The splinters can pierce through iron gates and walls, he says. Though Pakistan shelled several villages on the Jammu frontier on November 1, the Arnia sector witnessed maximum shelling. Other border villages in places like Ramgarh, Poonch and Rajauri too were pounded and there were casualties, but no where did live shells create such a fear as in Arnia. Sarpanch Raghubeer Singh says he has acquaintances in the police and Army but none bothered to come to the rescue of the villagers. There are live shells lying in many farms in the area and farmers are afraid of going to their lands. As a result, production of basmati rice in RS Pura is getting badly affected. "There is nothing anyone can do," says Jindo Devi, whose house was damaged when a shell exploded right in front of it, with splinters piercing through the iron gates and doors and smashing window panes. "We cannot abandon our houses and our cattle, she says, showing the splinters. A police official in Arnia police station, requesting anonymity said a bomd disposal teams would defuse the shells soon though he did not specify how soon.
By Express News Service
NEW DELHI: Amid mounting criticism from the public and the Opposition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met BJP parliamentarians and told them the country was with the government on the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes even as any rethink on the decision was ruled out.
Everyone agrees that it is a historic decision. BJP leaders from across the country said that there is overwhelming support for the governments bold move to fight black money and corruption, said Union minister Venkaiah Naidu after the meeting.
The minister ruled out any chance of the government rethinking the decision. Allegations levelled by the Opposition are baseless. We will answer them at an appropriate time. In Parliament we will get to know which people are on the side of black money hoarders, he said. Union minister Ananth Kumar said all NDA allies supported Modi on the demonetisation issue at a meeting of the coalition. Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the NDA meet that the credit for demonetisation will not go to him personally, but to all parties which stood with the govt, Naidu said.
Parliaments winter session is set to begin on Wednesday and sources said the opening day would likely be taken over by Opposition leaders such as Mamata Banerjee, accusing the Centre of punishing poor people with the decision to scrap high-denomination notes. BJP president Amit Shah, while advising his party colleagues to counter the Opposition aggressively, said they must also be prepared to give informed accounts of the Armys surgical strikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
And the party hit back at West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her criticism of the demonetisation move, describing her as Queen of Saradha, referring to the multi-crore-rupee Saradha chit fund scam.
NEW DELHI: Amid mounting criticism from the public and the Opposition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met BJP parliamentarians and told them the country was with the government on the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes even as any rethink on the decision was ruled out. Everyone agrees that it is a historic decision. BJP leaders from across the country said that there is overwhelming support for the governments bold move to fight black money and corruption, said Union minister Venkaiah Naidu after the meeting. The minister ruled out any chance of the government rethinking the decision. Allegations levelled by the Opposition are baseless. We will answer them at an appropriate time. In Parliament we will get to know which people are on the side of black money hoarders, he said. Union minister Ananth Kumar said all NDA allies supported Modi on the demonetisation issue at a meeting of the coalition. Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the NDA meet that the credit for demonetisation will not go to him personally, but to all parties which stood with the govt, Naidu said. Parliaments winter session is set to begin on Wednesday and sources said the opening day would likely be taken over by Opposition leaders such as Mamata Banerjee, accusing the Centre of punishing poor people with the decision to scrap high-denomination notes. BJP president Amit Shah, while advising his party colleagues to counter the Opposition aggressively, said they must also be prepared to give informed accounts of the Armys surgical strikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. And the party hit back at West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her criticism of the demonetisation move, describing her as Queen of Saradha, referring to the multi-crore-rupee Saradha chit fund scam.
By Express News Service
NEW DELHI: Pakistan on Monday summoned Indias envoy in Islamabad to protest against the killing of its seven soldiers in unprovoked firing by the Indian Army and threatened that the Indian attitude might lead to a strategic miscalculation, a euphemism for a nuclear attack.
He (Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry) emphasized that this belligerent attitude of Indian occupation forces was a serious threat to the regional peace and security and may lead to strategic miscalculation, said a statement issued by the Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Chaudhry summoned High Commissioner Gautam Bambawale and deplored the increasing Indian ceasefire violations. Pakistans Inter Services Public Relations on Monday announced that seven of its soldiers were killed in Bhimber sector on Sunday night.
Seven soldiers embraced shahadat (martyrdom) at the Line of Control in Bhimber sector in a ceasefire violation by Indian troops late last night. Pakistani troops, while responding to Indian unprovoked firing, targeted Indian posts effectively, the agency said on Monday morning.
Pakistan is pursuing a policy of restraint, which should not be construed as a sign of weakness, the statement quoted Chaudhry as saying. He said Pakistan forces did not initiate fire, but would always respond in a befitting manner if fired upon, it said. It is for the second time in a week that Pakistan has summoned the Indian envoy.
For his part, the Indian envoy protested against unprovoked firing by Pakistan and said it was to provide cover to infiltrators, resulting in the deaths of several Indian civilian and soldiers. Earlier in the day, Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif asserted that his country was fully capable of defending its territory against any aggression.
Sharif expressed grief over the loss of lives in the latest violation of the LoC by Indian forces and claimed the Indian forces had resorted to escalating the tension only to uselessly divert the worlds attention from the grave human rights situation in Kashmir.
As tensions simmer, cross-border firings and casualties have become the order of the day between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. The frequent exchange fire along the de-facto border means the ceasefire agreement that came into existence in 2003 is unofficially off. Both countries have been summoning each others diplomats on a fairly regular basis.
On November 9, the Army had reported that one of its soldiers was killed in Pakistan firing and that it responded by fire assault with heavy weapons. The Pakistan army has claimed that India has been resorting to artillery firing along the border.
The ceasefire agreement was signed in 2003 between the two countries after the Parliament attack. The agreement meant cessation of firing along the LoC, international border and the Actual Ground Position Line but since India carried out surgical strikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in September, the truce violations have spiked to 286.
NEW DELHI: Pakistan on Monday summoned Indias envoy in Islamabad to protest against the killing of its seven soldiers in unprovoked firing by the Indian Army and threatened that the Indian attitude might lead to a strategic miscalculation, a euphemism for a nuclear attack. He (Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry) emphasized that this belligerent attitude of Indian occupation forces was a serious threat to the regional peace and security and may lead to strategic miscalculation, said a statement issued by the Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Chaudhry summoned High Commissioner Gautam Bambawale and deplored the increasing Indian ceasefire violations. Pakistans Inter Services Public Relations on Monday announced that seven of its soldiers were killed in Bhimber sector on Sunday night. Seven soldiers embraced shahadat (martyrdom) at the Line of Control in Bhimber sector in a ceasefire violation by Indian troops late last night. Pakistani troops, while responding to Indian unprovoked firing, targeted Indian posts effectively, the agency said on Monday morning. Pakistan is pursuing a policy of restraint, which should not be construed as a sign of weakness, the statement quoted Chaudhry as saying. He said Pakistan forces did not initiate fire, but would always respond in a befitting manner if fired upon, it said. It is for the second time in a week that Pakistan has summoned the Indian envoy. For his part, the Indian envoy protested against unprovoked firing by Pakistan and said it was to provide cover to infiltrators, resulting in the deaths of several Indian civilian and soldiers. Earlier in the day, Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif asserted that his country was fully capable of defending its territory against any aggression. Sharif expressed grief over the loss of lives in the latest violation of the LoC by Indian forces and claimed the Indian forces had resorted to escalating the tension only to uselessly divert the worlds attention from the grave human rights situation in Kashmir. As tensions simmer, cross-border firings and casualties have become the order of the day between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. The frequent exchange fire along the de-facto border means the ceasefire agreement that came into existence in 2003 is unofficially off. Both countries have been summoning each others diplomats on a fairly regular basis. On November 9, the Army had reported that one of its soldiers was killed in Pakistan firing and that it responded by fire assault with heavy weapons. The Pakistan army has claimed that India has been resorting to artillery firing along the border. The ceasefire agreement was signed in 2003 between the two countries after the Parliament attack. The agreement meant cessation of firing along the LoC, international border and the Actual Ground Position Line but since India carried out surgical strikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in September, the truce violations have spiked to 286.
When Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik was recently asked if his party, the BJD, was eyeing an alliance with the Congress, his answer was an emphatic no. We want to keep an equidistance from both the Congress and the BJP," he said.
Referring to the poor representation of both the parties in the Assembly, he quipped that there is no sign of their gaining the strength in the state. In short, he was dismissive of his main political rivals.
Having been the undisputed king of Odisha for nearly two decades, Naveen, despite his irritating reticence, sounds confident each passing day. Yet, he doesnt brag about it. Having survived the anti-incumbency factors time and again, the BJD supremo has reasons to feel self-assured.
He sits pretty even as his popularity is going to be put to test once again in the forthcoming panchayat polls because the main opposition Congress seems to be imploding and the BJP is yet to brace up to the occasion.Besieged with chronic factionalism, the Congress is in a complete state of disarray in Odisha. Its fighting leaders are bringing the party down every day much to the delight of the ruling party.
Bizarre as it may sound, the Opposition has failed once again to exploit the Mahanadi water-sharing issue which had put the Naveen government on the mat after the Raman Singhled government in Chhattisgarh called Odishas bluff. While the BJD has gone to people in a big way using the same Mahanadi issue, neither the Congress nor the BJP could cash in on an issue which is emotive for the people of the state.
Funnily, Congress leaders, while protesting over the matter, tried to appropriate the issue to their individual advantage. In the process, the grand old party lost the plot and squandered the opportunity to nail Naveen. Instead of fighting for the cause, the Congress leaders ended up demanding state party chief Prasad Harichandans removal and made a mockery of themselves.
Acute factionalism has been the story of the Congress in the state for far too long. As soon as the president is elected, the factions join forces to pull the new dispensation down.
The All India Congress Committee, which has adopted a policy to displease none, has not bothered to put the house in order. As a result, the faction-riddled party has failed to put up a strong show on the Assembly floor and outside despite critical issues such as the Nagada malnourishment deaths, Gumudumaha police firing, Dana Majhis sad plight, Mahanadi controversy and most recently the Japanese encephalitis outbreak which could have been used to expose the BJDs governance paralysis.
So preoccupied are Congress leaders in their infighting that the party failed to take even one important issue to its logical conclusion. It was for the same reason the multi-crore-rupees ponzi and mining scams which had the involvement of many BJD bigwigs are a thing of the past now.
What has further come as a bolt for the Congress is the death of Lalatendu Bidyadhar Mohapatra, a three-time MLA and a strong organiser who enjoyed cult status among the youth. The only binding factor in the party, Mohapatras demise means the Congress will have its task cut out to rejuvenate itself.
The BJP, the second-largest Opposition party, continues to cling on to the Modi magic factor and hopes that it would do the trick to bring the party to power. There has been no discernable expansion of the partys roots in the state in the last two years. Its state leadership has at best been indifferent and at loggerheads most of the time sending confusing signals to the cadre.
As a result, the saffron partys visibility remains poor. Union minister Dharmendra Pradhans recent assertion that BJDs over-confidence would prove to be its undoing in the next polls a fate that befell the CPM in West Bengal could only be dubbed as a daydream because the Naveen government continues to be ahead in the perception battle in the state despite suffering several setbacks in the recent times.
A strong political Opposition is a prerequisite for any states healthy democratic environment and development. Notwithstanding their small numbers in the Assembly, both the Congress and the BJP have a responsibility towards the people and must win their trust.
Srimoy Kar
Resident Editor, Odisha
Email: srimoy@newindianexpress.com
When Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik was recently asked if his party, the BJD, was eyeing an alliance with the Congress, his answer was an emphatic no. We want to keep an equidistance from both the Congress and the BJP," he said. Referring to the poor representation of both the parties in the Assembly, he quipped that there is no sign of their gaining the strength in the state. In short, he was dismissive of his main political rivals. Having been the undisputed king of Odisha for nearly two decades, Naveen, despite his irritating reticence, sounds confident each passing day. Yet, he doesnt brag about it. Having survived the anti-incumbency factors time and again, the BJD supremo has reasons to feel self-assured. He sits pretty even as his popularity is going to be put to test once again in the forthcoming panchayat polls because the main opposition Congress seems to be imploding and the BJP is yet to brace up to the occasion.Besieged with chronic factionalism, the Congress is in a complete state of disarray in Odisha. Its fighting leaders are bringing the party down every day much to the delight of the ruling party. Bizarre as it may sound, the Opposition has failed once again to exploit the Mahanadi water-sharing issue which had put the Naveen government on the mat after the Raman Singhled government in Chhattisgarh called Odishas bluff. While the BJD has gone to people in a big way using the same Mahanadi issue, neither the Congress nor the BJP could cash in on an issue which is emotive for the people of the state. Funnily, Congress leaders, while protesting over the matter, tried to appropriate the issue to their individual advantage. In the process, the grand old party lost the plot and squandered the opportunity to nail Naveen. Instead of fighting for the cause, the Congress leaders ended up demanding state party chief Prasad Harichandans removal and made a mockery of themselves. Acute factionalism has been the story of the Congress in the state for far too long. As soon as the president is elected, the factions join forces to pull the new dispensation down. The All India Congress Committee, which has adopted a policy to displease none, has not bothered to put the house in order. As a result, the faction-riddled party has failed to put up a strong show on the Assembly floor and outside despite critical issues such as the Nagada malnourishment deaths, Gumudumaha police firing, Dana Majhis sad plight, Mahanadi controversy and most recently the Japanese encephalitis outbreak which could have been used to expose the BJDs governance paralysis. So preoccupied are Congress leaders in their infighting that the party failed to take even one important issue to its logical conclusion. It was for the same reason the multi-crore-rupees ponzi and mining scams which had the involvement of many BJD bigwigs are a thing of the past now. What has further come as a bolt for the Congress is the death of Lalatendu Bidyadhar Mohapatra, a three-time MLA and a strong organiser who enjoyed cult status among the youth. The only binding factor in the party, Mohapatras demise means the Congress will have its task cut out to rejuvenate itself. The BJP, the second-largest Opposition party, continues to cling on to the Modi magic factor and hopes that it would do the trick to bring the party to power. There has been no discernable expansion of the partys roots in the state in the last two years. Its state leadership has at best been indifferent and at loggerheads most of the time sending confusing signals to the cadre. As a result, the saffron partys visibility remains poor. Union minister Dharmendra Pradhans recent assertion that BJDs over-confidence would prove to be its undoing in the next polls a fate that befell the CPM in West Bengal could only be dubbed as a daydream because the Naveen government continues to be ahead in the perception battle in the state despite suffering several setbacks in the recent times. A strong political Opposition is a prerequisite for any states healthy democratic environment and development. Notwithstanding their small numbers in the Assembly, both the Congress and the BJP have a responsibility towards the people and must win their trust. Srimoy Kar Resident Editor, Odisha Email: srimoy@newindianexpress.com
Swaran Singh By
As the President of Israel, Reuven Rivlin, arrives in India for a week-long visit, media assessments vary on how long India can maintain this fine balance between rapidly widening and deepening strategic partnership with Israel and its traditional pro-Palestine policies.
It is pertinent to note that till January 1992, India did not even recognise the Jewish State. The two nations established formal diplomatic ties during Prime Minister Narasimha Raos regime which witnessed major recalibration of Indias post-Cold War foreign policy.
Since then, the evolution of Indias Israel policy can be viewed in four phases: (a) Indian national movement opposing partition of Palestine and negating Jewish state, (b) normalising of relations with Israel as part of Indias post-Soviet foreign policy of multi alignments, (c) seeking de-hyphenation from Arab-Israel conflict as also domestic Muslim constituencies, and (d) Modi now projecting Israel not just the third largest supplier but also as model for Indian armed forces. Critics highlight how even a simple de-hyphenation may negatively impact Indias image with the Arab world, especially the 56-nation Organisation of Islamic Countries that is often critical of Indias Kashmir policies.
AMIT BANDRE
Arab support remains critical for Indias aspirations to join various technology control regimes as also other global governance structures, including becoming a permanent veto wielding member of the UN Security Council. Domestically as well, any sharp pro-Israel drift is expected to negatively impact Modis Muslim constituencies, egged on by Modis political adversaries. But Modi is seen as a man-inhurry.
And, since 2002, Japan and Israel were the only two states amongst which carefully cultivated then Chief Minister Narendra Modi, at a time when all others carried out a vehement decade-long anti-Modi campaign in the name of human rights.
Today, there is no doubt that Prime Minister Modi has been the leading force in boosting Indias diplomatic ties with both Tokyo and Tel Aviv. In little over four months from taking over as prime minister, Modi set up his first meeting with his Israeli counterpart, Benjamin Netanyahu, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. Netanyahu extended a formal invitation to Modi to visit Israel, which is now expected to take place in January 2017 to mark 25 years of India-Israel diplomatic ties. The most dramatic change in Modis Israel policy was marked by Home Minister Rajnath Singhs November 2014 visit to Israel only.
All high-level visits before that Home Minister L K Advani and External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh in 2000 and later External Affairs Minister S M Krishna in 2012 had always been combined to include Jordan and Palestine. India had been a strong votary of relations with Israel being dependent upon progress made in Israel-Palestine conflict. Naturally, this attempt at de-hyphenation saw an uproar both in the Indian parliament and outside, forcing a quick course correction thus finessing and slowing this apparent tilt. In October 2015, President Pranab Mukherjee visited Jordan, Palestine and Israel.
Apart from being the first foreign head of state to spend a night in Ramallah city, he was also the first Indian head of state to visit Israel, and his address to a special session of the Knesset attracted much media scrutiny, particularly after Netanyahus remark that I speak to my dear friend Modi quite often. When we met once, he told me India wants Israel and that I see a paragon of fraternity between our two countries.
This was followed by Sushma Swaraj visiting Jordan, Palestine and Israel in January this year, and several ministerial visits are likely to follow as a part of the preparations for Modis visit. Luckily for India, the Iran nuclear deal and rise of Islamic State has shifted the worlds attention away from the burgeoning relationship with Israel. India has been successful in balancing its engagement with Saudi Arabia and Iran, two important Islamic powers which do not see eye-to-eye.
This gives India a window of opportunity to engage Israel without worrying too much about negative consequences. In April this year India had voted in favour of a UNESCO pro- Palestine resolution questioning Israels claim and criticising it for excavations inside the walled city, yet it chose to abstain from a similar resolution last month. Then, to balance this abstention and President Rivlins visit, Minister of State M J Akbar visited Palestine last week for the first ever Joint Commission meeting.
The focus of President Rivlins visit is likely to be aimed at expanding India-Israel ties beyond buyer-seller relationship of two militaries, though they may also sign agreements on procuring spike anti-tank guided missiles, target equipment, bombs and other weapons systems like radars worth $3-4 billion dollars. In the past decade, Israel has sold military supplies worth $12 billion to India.
But it is important to note that India-Israel relationship has moved beyond just transfers to joint research and development, and Israel is a pioneer in building partnerships under Modis Make in India drive. Meanwhile bilateral trade, which witnessed a steady increase from a mere $ 200 million 1992 to $5.61 billion in 2014 fell to $4.91 billion last year.
The two have a target of pushing it to $10 billion, but this seems difficult, given that talks on a Free Trade Agreement which began in 2010 are yet to bear fruit. But ties have improved dramatically, and as President Rivlin said soon after his arrival in Delhi, the friendship between India and Israel is at work day in, day out and it is not a relationship we should be hiding.
As the President of Israel, Reuven Rivlin, arrives in India for a week-long visit, media assessments vary on how long India can maintain this fine balance between rapidly widening and deepening strategic partnership with Israel and its traditional pro-Palestine policies. It is pertinent to note that till January 1992, India did not even recognise the Jewish State. The two nations established formal diplomatic ties during Prime Minister Narasimha Raos regime which witnessed major recalibration of Indias post-Cold War foreign policy. Since then, the evolution of Indias Israel policy can be viewed in four phases: (a) Indian national movement opposing partition of Palestine and negating Jewish state, (b) normalising of relations with Israel as part of Indias post-Soviet foreign policy of multi alignments, (c) seeking de-hyphenation from Arab-Israel conflict as also domestic Muslim constituencies, and (d) Modi now projecting Israel not just the third largest supplier but also as model for Indian armed forces. Critics highlight how even a simple de-hyphenation may negatively impact Indias image with the Arab world, especially the 56-nation Organisation of Islamic Countries that is often critical of Indias Kashmir policies. AMIT BANDREArab support remains critical for Indias aspirations to join various technology control regimes as also other global governance structures, including becoming a permanent veto wielding member of the UN Security Council. Domestically as well, any sharp pro-Israel drift is expected to negatively impact Modis Muslim constituencies, egged on by Modis political adversaries. But Modi is seen as a man-inhurry. And, since 2002, Japan and Israel were the only two states amongst which carefully cultivated then Chief Minister Narendra Modi, at a time when all others carried out a vehement decade-long anti-Modi campaign in the name of human rights. Today, there is no doubt that Prime Minister Modi has been the leading force in boosting Indias diplomatic ties with both Tokyo and Tel Aviv. In little over four months from taking over as prime minister, Modi set up his first meeting with his Israeli counterpart, Benjamin Netanyahu, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. Netanyahu extended a formal invitation to Modi to visit Israel, which is now expected to take place in January 2017 to mark 25 years of India-Israel diplomatic ties. The most dramatic change in Modis Israel policy was marked by Home Minister Rajnath Singhs November 2014 visit to Israel only. All high-level visits before that Home Minister L K Advani and External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh in 2000 and later External Affairs Minister S M Krishna in 2012 had always been combined to include Jordan and Palestine. India had been a strong votary of relations with Israel being dependent upon progress made in Israel-Palestine conflict. Naturally, this attempt at de-hyphenation saw an uproar both in the Indian parliament and outside, forcing a quick course correction thus finessing and slowing this apparent tilt. In October 2015, President Pranab Mukherjee visited Jordan, Palestine and Israel. Apart from being the first foreign head of state to spend a night in Ramallah city, he was also the first Indian head of state to visit Israel, and his address to a special session of the Knesset attracted much media scrutiny, particularly after Netanyahus remark that I speak to my dear friend Modi quite often. When we met once, he told me India wants Israel and that I see a paragon of fraternity between our two countries. This was followed by Sushma Swaraj visiting Jordan, Palestine and Israel in January this year, and several ministerial visits are likely to follow as a part of the preparations for Modis visit. Luckily for India, the Iran nuclear deal and rise of Islamic State has shifted the worlds attention away from the burgeoning relationship with Israel. India has been successful in balancing its engagement with Saudi Arabia and Iran, two important Islamic powers which do not see eye-to-eye. This gives India a window of opportunity to engage Israel without worrying too much about negative consequences. In April this year India had voted in favour of a UNESCO pro- Palestine resolution questioning Israels claim and criticising it for excavations inside the walled city, yet it chose to abstain from a similar resolution last month. Then, to balance this abstention and President Rivlins visit, Minister of State M J Akbar visited Palestine last week for the first ever Joint Commission meeting. The focus of President Rivlins visit is likely to be aimed at expanding India-Israel ties beyond buyer-seller relationship of two militaries, though they may also sign agreements on procuring spike anti-tank guided missiles, target equipment, bombs and other weapons systems like radars worth $3-4 billion dollars. In the past decade, Israel has sold military supplies worth $12 billion to India. But it is important to note that India-Israel relationship has moved beyond just transfers to joint research and development, and Israel is a pioneer in building partnerships under Modis Make in India drive. Meanwhile bilateral trade, which witnessed a steady increase from a mere $ 200 million 1992 to $5.61 billion in 2014 fell to $4.91 billion last year. The two have a target of pushing it to $10 billion, but this seems difficult, given that talks on a Free Trade Agreement which began in 2010 are yet to bear fruit. But ties have improved dramatically, and as President Rivlin said soon after his arrival in Delhi, the friendship between India and Israel is at work day in, day out and it is not a relationship we should be hiding.
LIMA, Nov. 13 (Xinhua) -- The upcoming visit by President Xi Jinping to Peru in November will have a major impact across the region as it certifies Latin America is a priority for China, said a Peruvian expert.
"It reflects the relevance China gives its ties to Latin America. Our region is a priority for China and Latin America sees this as a prime opportunity," said Miguel Rodriguez, an international analyst, in an interview with Xinhua.
"The Chinese act with blistering speed, knowing that time counts in international relations. China knows how to win over the world."
"China knows a region is a gold mine, and always has been. Latin America is growing as never before, which is why China is seeking to accentuate commercial ties. Linked to this is the Chinese goal to diversify its exports. Therefore, China sees it as equally important to invest in developed countries like the U.S. as in growing economies in Latin America."
"China and Peru are enjoying one of their best moments. President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski chose China as his first international trip as head of state, showing that China is a priority in the foreign policy of Peru's new government."
"This level of reciprocity will be consolidated during the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, where President Xi Jinping will come."
In terms of Chile and Ecuador, which Xi will also visit, "China sees all Latin American countries as important. Chile and Ecuador are other geopolitical focus points in China's proposal to link the Pacific and the Atlantic. It will seek the best of relations with these countries."
"Latin America is not just interested in developing commercial ties. The region is also interested in Chinese technology in order to spur development and industrialization."
"President Kuczynski said that he did not go to China to ask for loans but to ask for investments and technology going forward. This focus is crucial to achieve reciprocity."
Karamatullah K Ghori By
Those of us, like this scribe, living in Canada have a love-hate mind-set about our giant neighbour, south of the 49th Parallel separating the two largest countries of North America. This isnt surprising, given that Canada has one-tenth the US population and is no patch on the American global military strength. The Canadians think, with disdain, of their southern neighbour being saddled with an imperfect and deeply-flawed political system, and nothing couldve vouched for it more than the stunning victory of an outsider and maverick Donald Trump in the November 8 presidential election. Trump has, indeed, trumped the well-entrenched American establishment with his unexpected trouncing of the establishment- savvy Hillary Clinton. In the process he hasnt only taken Washington by storm but also forced pundits and policy gurus in most world capitals to scurry to their drawing boards for an entirely fresh and unanticipated stab at how to deal with the White Houses new occupant who, through most of his rambunctious election campaign, swore to drain the swamp in Washington. Sending out of jobs Washingtons pampered establishment pundits wasnt the only outrageous statement spewing from Trumps lips. There was a plethora of other equally unorthodox pronouncements that forced friends and foes to take notice of the bull trying to crash into Washingtons chinashop. His infamous lines included a total and complete ban on the entry of Muslims in US, giving the boot to millions of illegal immigrants, and building a wall all along the Mexican border and make Mexico pay for it.
Trump also pontificated about India and Pakistan. Conscious that new Americans of South Asian provenance were into the US presidential race perhaps more actively than any other new entrants, he courted both Indian and Pakistani interest groups and lobbies; some of his sound- bytes and quips could be construed to mean that he intended, if elected, to play an active role in the South Asian context as someone deeply concerned about a region that was, in his words, a very, very hot tinderbox. Election rhetoric being what it is, Trump often profusely complimented both Indians and Pakistanis for their dedication to their new homeland. Only a few weeks before the D-Day, rubbing shoulders with the vibrant Indian diaspora in New Jersey, Trump regaled his audience by promising, if elected, to make US and India the best of friends. He assured his cheering Indian fans of a phenomenal future together and won more applause by adding,
There isnt going to be any relationship more important to us than relations with India. Trump carried on with the same strain when he was interviewed by the Hindustan Times. He evinced interest in defusing the red-hot tension between India and Pakistan with these words. Well, Id love to see Pakistan and India get along, because thats a very, very hot tinderbox. Throughout the acrimonious and intensely bitter campaign, Trump wasnt known for making clear-cut or categorical statements on which he could be pinned down. He was, in fact, notorious for weaving in and out of contentious issues, zigzagging more often than not. However, on India-Pakistan equation or lack of it Trump was, surprisingly, clear, categorical and, for a welcome change, statesman-like. In the same interview with HT, Trump mentioned the recent problem in Kashmir that had so much exacerbated tension between India and Pakistan.
When asked by his interlocutor if hed like to have a role in lowering the dangerously high temperature in South Asia, he said if they wanted me to, Id love to be the mediator or arbitrator and went on to add, If we could get India and Pakistan getting along, Id be honoured to do that. On another occasion, however, he seemed falling in line with the Obama stance that US would step in between the two adversaries if both asked for it. So Indians have not to worry that Trump, if he still remembers his campaign rhetoric, would still be leaning on India to talk to Pakistan against its will. Campaign promises and commitments take little time, in any case, before melting into thin air. However, Pakistanis have much less room for optimism than their Indian counterparts of President Trump still being friendly, or well-disposed to them, notwithstanding his campaign antics during which he raised slogans of I Love Pakistan, raised in a gathering of his Pakistani-American fans.
The burden of office, it goes without saying, changes the man, and the greater the burden the quicker that happens. US-Pakistan relations, in the years since Pakistan joined the endless American war on terror, have had a number of angularities, with Washington often articulating its concerns, publicly, about Pakistans flirtation with its own terrorism. American policy makers, if not the leaders in Washington, have left little to doubt that they suspect Pakistan of playing on both sides of the street. Trust between the two old allies, Pakistan and US has been in short supply for a long time. It nose-dived last May with an American drone killing a prominent Afghan Taliban leader on Pakistani soil. Trump may have, inadvertently, added to Pakistans angst about his policy stance, and style, when, in the heat of the campaign, he boasted that he could get Dr Shakil Afridi a CIA mole sentenced to a 36-year prison term in Pakistan for blowing the cover of Osama bin Laden in just five-minutes by hectoring the Pakistanis to let him go. Indians can relax about the Trump presidency because of the innate chemistry of affinity between the worlds two largest democracies ruling the roost in Trumps Washington. Pakistanis, sadly, dont have that luxury. They should be worried and keeping their fingers crossed, if not exactly being on tenterhooks.
Karamatullah K Ghori is a former Pakistani diplomat
Email: K_K_ghori@yahoo.com
Those of us, like this scribe, living in Canada have a love-hate mind-set about our giant neighbour, south of the 49th Parallel separating the two largest countries of North America. This isnt surprising, given that Canada has one-tenth the US population and is no patch on the American global military strength. The Canadians think, with disdain, of their southern neighbour being saddled with an imperfect and deeply-flawed political system, and nothing couldve vouched for it more than the stunning victory of an outsider and maverick Donald Trump in the November 8 presidential election. Trump has, indeed, trumped the well-entrenched American establishment with his unexpected trouncing of the establishment- savvy Hillary Clinton. In the process he hasnt only taken Washington by storm but also forced pundits and policy gurus in most world capitals to scurry to their drawing boards for an entirely fresh and unanticipated stab at how to deal with the White Houses new occupant who, through most of his rambunctious election campaign, swore to drain the swamp in Washington. Sending out of jobs Washingtons pampered establishment pundits wasnt the only outrageous statement spewing from Trumps lips. There was a plethora of other equally unorthodox pronouncements that forced friends and foes to take notice of the bull trying to crash into Washingtons chinashop. His infamous lines included a total and complete ban on the entry of Muslims in US, giving the boot to millions of illegal immigrants, and building a wall all along the Mexican border and make Mexico pay for it. Trump also pontificated about India and Pakistan. Conscious that new Americans of South Asian provenance were into the US presidential race perhaps more actively than any other new entrants, he courted both Indian and Pakistani interest groups and lobbies; some of his sound- bytes and quips could be construed to mean that he intended, if elected, to play an active role in the South Asian context as someone deeply concerned about a region that was, in his words, a very, very hot tinderbox. Election rhetoric being what it is, Trump often profusely complimented both Indians and Pakistanis for their dedication to their new homeland. Only a few weeks before the D-Day, rubbing shoulders with the vibrant Indian diaspora in New Jersey, Trump regaled his audience by promising, if elected, to make US and India the best of friends. He assured his cheering Indian fans of a phenomenal future together and won more applause by adding, There isnt going to be any relationship more important to us than relations with India. Trump carried on with the same strain when he was interviewed by the Hindustan Times. He evinced interest in defusing the red-hot tension between India and Pakistan with these words. Well, Id love to see Pakistan and India get along, because thats a very, very hot tinderbox. Throughout the acrimonious and intensely bitter campaign, Trump wasnt known for making clear-cut or categorical statements on which he could be pinned down. He was, in fact, notorious for weaving in and out of contentious issues, zigzagging more often than not. However, on India-Pakistan equation or lack of it Trump was, surprisingly, clear, categorical and, for a welcome change, statesman-like. In the same interview with HT, Trump mentioned the recent problem in Kashmir that had so much exacerbated tension between India and Pakistan. When asked by his interlocutor if hed like to have a role in lowering the dangerously high temperature in South Asia, he said if they wanted me to, Id love to be the mediator or arbitrator and went on to add, If we could get India and Pakistan getting along, Id be honoured to do that. On another occasion, however, he seemed falling in line with the Obama stance that US would step in between the two adversaries if both asked for it. So Indians have not to worry that Trump, if he still remembers his campaign rhetoric, would still be leaning on India to talk to Pakistan against its will. Campaign promises and commitments take little time, in any case, before melting into thin air. However, Pakistanis have much less room for optimism than their Indian counterparts of President Trump still being friendly, or well-disposed to them, notwithstanding his campaign antics during which he raised slogans of I Love Pakistan, raised in a gathering of his Pakistani-American fans. The burden of office, it goes without saying, changes the man, and the greater the burden the quicker that happens. US-Pakistan relations, in the years since Pakistan joined the endless American war on terror, have had a number of angularities, with Washington often articulating its concerns, publicly, about Pakistans flirtation with its own terrorism. American policy makers, if not the leaders in Washington, have left little to doubt that they suspect Pakistan of playing on both sides of the street. Trust between the two old allies, Pakistan and US has been in short supply for a long time. It nose-dived last May with an American drone killing a prominent Afghan Taliban leader on Pakistani soil. Trump may have, inadvertently, added to Pakistans angst about his policy stance, and style, when, in the heat of the campaign, he boasted that he could get Dr Shakil Afridi a CIA mole sentenced to a 36-year prison term in Pakistan for blowing the cover of Osama bin Laden in just five-minutes by hectoring the Pakistanis to let him go. Indians can relax about the Trump presidency because of the innate chemistry of affinity between the worlds two largest democracies ruling the roost in Trumps Washington. Pakistanis, sadly, dont have that luxury. They should be worried and keeping their fingers crossed, if not exactly being on tenterhooks. Karamatullah K Ghori is a former Pakistani diplomat Email: K_K_ghori@yahoo.com
By Express News Service
GUNTUR: A medical professor accused of driving a second-year post-grad medical student at the Guntur General Hospital to suicide has been detained by the police in Bengaluru after weeks of being on the lam.
Gynaecology student Dr B Sandhya Rani committed suicide by injecting a high dose of an anaesthetic drug into her veins. In a letter she wrote before her suicide, she squarely blamed Prof Lakshmi for her death.
Prof Lakshmi has been at large since then until she was traced by a Special Police team to Bengaluru. Sources said she along with her husband, who too is a doctor, first went to Mumbai by flight from Hyderabad. From there they drove to Puducherry in a car provided by a realtor known to her family. When police began making enquiries about her in Puducherry, the couple moved to Bengaluru.
In her diary, Dr Sandhya Rani said Prof. Lakshmi harassed her to the extent that she became totally demoralised and led a life full of tension. Unable to bear the "torture" any longer, she said in her diary, she decided to end her life.
Sandhya Rani's husband, Ch Ravi, who practices in Miryalaguda, too attempted suicide after hearing of his wife's suicide. He is at present out of danger.
GUNTUR: A medical professor accused of driving a second-year post-grad medical student at the Guntur General Hospital to suicide has been detained by the police in Bengaluru after weeks of being on the lam. Gynaecology student Dr B Sandhya Rani committed suicide by injecting a high dose of an anaesthetic drug into her veins. In a letter she wrote before her suicide, she squarely blamed Prof Lakshmi for her death. Prof Lakshmi has been at large since then until she was traced by a Special Police team to Bengaluru. Sources said she along with her husband, who too is a doctor, first went to Mumbai by flight from Hyderabad. From there they drove to Puducherry in a car provided by a realtor known to her family. When police began making enquiries about her in Puducherry, the couple moved to Bengaluru. In her diary, Dr Sandhya Rani said Prof. Lakshmi harassed her to the extent that she became totally demoralised and led a life full of tension. Unable to bear the "torture" any longer, she said in her diary, she decided to end her life. Sandhya Rani's husband, Ch Ravi, who practices in Miryalaguda, too attempted suicide after hearing of his wife's suicide. He is at present out of danger.
Saumesh Thimbath By
Express News Service
KOCHI: Compared to other major cities in the country, Keralas cities are better placed in terms of ambient air quality. However, Kochi reports the highest pollution levels in the state, ranking 88th among cities in India. Its annual mean PM2.5 (38 g/m3) and PM 10 (70 g/m3) readings both fall above the standard permissible limit.
The next most polluted cities are Kottayam and Kozhikode. The capital, Thiruvananthapuram, is much cleaner, with PM 2.5 levels at 29 g/m3 and PM 10 levels at 55 g/m3.
The Kerala State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) says no city in Kerala has alarming levels of air pollution. The higher pollution in Kochi is attributed to the presence of industries on its peripheries, vehicular pollution and dust from construction sites.
Environmentalists do not buy the explanations given by the KSPCB. They say it has not been doing continuous monitoring of air quality. Jolted out of its slumber by Delhis smog emergency, KSPCB announced on Thursday that it would install four ambient air quality monitoring systems by the end of the financial year.
KOCHI: Compared to other major cities in the country, Keralas cities are better placed in terms of ambient air quality. However, Kochi reports the highest pollution levels in the state, ranking 88th among cities in India. Its annual mean PM2.5 (38 g/m3) and PM 10 (70 g/m3) readings both fall above the standard permissible limit. The next most polluted cities are Kottayam and Kozhikode. The capital, Thiruvananthapuram, is much cleaner, with PM 2.5 levels at 29 g/m3 and PM 10 levels at 55 g/m3. The Kerala State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) says no city in Kerala has alarming levels of air pollution. The higher pollution in Kochi is attributed to the presence of industries on its peripheries, vehicular pollution and dust from construction sites. Environmentalists do not buy the explanations given by the KSPCB. They say it has not been doing continuous monitoring of air quality. Jolted out of its slumber by Delhis smog emergency, KSPCB announced on Thursday that it would install four ambient air quality monitoring systems by the end of the financial year.
Tiki Rajwi By
Express News Service
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Taking a leaf out of the Union governments Give-it-up campaign that inspired more than one crore Indians to give up their LPG subsidy, the State government has come up with a scheme for ration cardholders to voluntarily opt out of the Public Distribution System (PDS).
The Food and Civil Supplies Department will soon introduce an online facility where cardholders can voluntarily forego their food grain-quota.
This additional grain will be used to meet the requirements of the rightful beneficiaries who would be left out of the priority category under the National Food Security Act (NFSA).
The online facility is now under development. It will be launched soon, said Food and Civil Supplies Minister P Thilothaman. The option, in reality, had already existed, but an online facility is expected to prompt more cardholders who do not depend on PDS food grains to officially forego their quota.
According to the department, approximately 13,900 cardholders have already informed the government - through their application for new ration cards - of their readiness to forego the ration food grains.
Civil Supplies officials said that the National Informatics Centre (NIC) has been entrusted with the job of designing the portal.
Cardholders who opt out of the PDS will have to provide their Aadhaar number and mobile phone number to enable the authorities to cross-check their identity.
The State government is faced with the tough task of meeting the requirement of 1.78 crore people in the former APL (State Subsidy) category with just 4 lakh metric tonnes of foodgrains a year.
Under NFSA, Kerala is entitled to get 14.25 lakh MT a year. Earlier, Kerala had lifted 16 lakh MT.
Of the 14.25 lakh MT, the former BPL, AAY categories who now form the priority category under NFSA will require 10.25 lakh MT, leaving the State with just 4 lakh MT to feed the rest.
After skipping deadlines for three years, Kerala has turned NFSA compliant on November 1.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Taking a leaf out of the Union governments Give-it-up campaign that inspired more than one crore Indians to give up their LPG subsidy, the State government has come up with a scheme for ration cardholders to voluntarily opt out of the Public Distribution System (PDS). The Food and Civil Supplies Department will soon introduce an online facility where cardholders can voluntarily forego their food grain-quota. This additional grain will be used to meet the requirements of the rightful beneficiaries who would be left out of the priority category under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). The online facility is now under development. It will be launched soon, said Food and Civil Supplies Minister P Thilothaman. The option, in reality, had already existed, but an online facility is expected to prompt more cardholders who do not depend on PDS food grains to officially forego their quota. According to the department, approximately 13,900 cardholders have already informed the government - through their application for new ration cards - of their readiness to forego the ration food grains. Civil Supplies officials said that the National Informatics Centre (NIC) has been entrusted with the job of designing the portal. Cardholders who opt out of the PDS will have to provide their Aadhaar number and mobile phone number to enable the authorities to cross-check their identity. The State government is faced with the tough task of meeting the requirement of 1.78 crore people in the former APL (State Subsidy) category with just 4 lakh metric tonnes of foodgrains a year. Under NFSA, Kerala is entitled to get 14.25 lakh MT a year. Earlier, Kerala had lifted 16 lakh MT. Of the 14.25 lakh MT, the former BPL, AAY categories who now form the priority category under NFSA will require 10.25 lakh MT, leaving the State with just 4 lakh MT to feed the rest. After skipping deadlines for three years, Kerala has turned NFSA compliant on November 1.
P T Mohanan Pillai By
Express News Service
SABARIMALA: Though the annual pilgrimage season of Lord Ayyappa temple is all set to begin on Tuesday, the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) and the state government are yet to get their acts together. While the pilgrims have already started pouring in, basic amenities, including drinking water and free food, are lacking at Sannidhanam.
The construction of reverse osmosis (RO) plants and installation of water kiosks on the trek route are yet to be completed. The ban on use of water bottles at Sannidhanam will affect the pilgrims badly. The failure of Forest Department in issuing clearance for the project to increase the water storage capacity of Kunnar dam has stalled the ambitious project. The Devaswom Board couldnt complete the construction of the Annadanam Complex at Malikappuram.
Meanwhile, the denial of permission to the Akhila Bharatha Ayyappa Seva Sangham and the Sabarimala Ayyappa Seva Samajam for distribution of free food will be a huge blow for thousands of pilgrims who depend on free food. The hapless pilgrims are left with no other option but to fall prey to the fleecing hoteliers.
SABARIMALA: Though the annual pilgrimage season of Lord Ayyappa temple is all set to begin on Tuesday, the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) and the state government are yet to get their acts together. While the pilgrims have already started pouring in, basic amenities, including drinking water and free food, are lacking at Sannidhanam. The construction of reverse osmosis (RO) plants and installation of water kiosks on the trek route are yet to be completed. The ban on use of water bottles at Sannidhanam will affect the pilgrims badly. The failure of Forest Department in issuing clearance for the project to increase the water storage capacity of Kunnar dam has stalled the ambitious project. The Devaswom Board couldnt complete the construction of the Annadanam Complex at Malikappuram. Meanwhile, the denial of permission to the Akhila Bharatha Ayyappa Seva Sangham and the Sabarimala Ayyappa Seva Samajam for distribution of free food will be a huge blow for thousands of pilgrims who depend on free food. The hapless pilgrims are left with no other option but to fall prey to the fleecing hoteliers.
Rajesh Abraham By
Express News Service
KOCHI: The cooperative banking sector in Kerala has plunged into a huge crisis following the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) circular on Monday banning exchange of notes against the scrapped Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes at the District Cooperative Banks (DCB).
The Central Governments discrimination towards the cooperative banking sector would also end the states dream to float a Kerala Bank by merging the DCBs, according to some experts.
We have a banking licence from RBI since 1984. If RBI suspects any wrong doing, they should inspect and take appropriate action. Blanket ban is discriminatory. Our board met the other day and decided to explore legal recourse if the situation continues, said Radhakrishnan M K, general manager of Ernakulam District Cooperative Bank, the largest DCB in the state with over Rs 9,000 crore deposits from about 2 lakh account holders. Finance Minister Thomas Isaac, in an FB post, said Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has promised to look into Keralas demand to treat the primary cooperative societies and DCBs on par with other banks with regard to accepting and withdrawing notes in the demonetisation regime.
In the circular RBI said DCBs are not allowed the exchange facility against the specified bank notes (Rs 500 and Rs 1,000), deposit of such notes should not be entertained by them. However, the apex bank has permitted withdrawal of cash up to Rs 24,000 per week.
According to State Level Bankers Committee, Kerala, the total deposit base of the cooperative banking sector as on March 2016 stands at Rs 52813.23 crore.
Its a big crisis in the Kerala cooperative banking sector. DCBs have the RBIs banking licence. How can RBI treat DCBs in a discriminatory fashion? asked Kurien Joy, president of the Kerala State Cooperative Bank.
The state governments plan to merge the cooperative banks to form Kerala Bank is under serious threat as the proposed unified bank is mooted under the cooperative sector, said Radhakrishnan.
When contacted, a Finance Ministry official, said an expert committee headed by M S Sreeram of IIM Bangalore, will submit its report on Kerala Bank by December-end or January. Well decide on how to go about the Kerala Bank after studying the Sreeram Committee report.
Ravichandran P R of Thrissur DCB said RBI should give special status to the Kerala cooperative banking sector. Unlike the DCBs of north Indian or north eastern states, the Kerala DCBs are very healthy. RBI and the Central Government should have taken this into consideration before meting out discriminatory treatment, he said.
KOCHI: The cooperative banking sector in Kerala has plunged into a huge crisis following the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) circular on Monday banning exchange of notes against the scrapped Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes at the District Cooperative Banks (DCB). The Central Governments discrimination towards the cooperative banking sector would also end the states dream to float a Kerala Bank by merging the DCBs, according to some experts. We have a banking licence from RBI since 1984. If RBI suspects any wrong doing, they should inspect and take appropriate action. Blanket ban is discriminatory. Our board met the other day and decided to explore legal recourse if the situation continues, said Radhakrishnan M K, general manager of Ernakulam District Cooperative Bank, the largest DCB in the state with over Rs 9,000 crore deposits from about 2 lakh account holders. Finance Minister Thomas Isaac, in an FB post, said Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has promised to look into Keralas demand to treat the primary cooperative societies and DCBs on par with other banks with regard to accepting and withdrawing notes in the demonetisation regime. In the circular RBI said DCBs are not allowed the exchange facility against the specified bank notes (Rs 500 and Rs 1,000), deposit of such notes should not be entertained by them. However, the apex bank has permitted withdrawal of cash up to Rs 24,000 per week. According to State Level Bankers Committee, Kerala, the total deposit base of the cooperative banking sector as on March 2016 stands at Rs 52813.23 crore. Its a big crisis in the Kerala cooperative banking sector. DCBs have the RBIs banking licence. How can RBI treat DCBs in a discriminatory fashion? asked Kurien Joy, president of the Kerala State Cooperative Bank. The state governments plan to merge the cooperative banks to form Kerala Bank is under serious threat as the proposed unified bank is mooted under the cooperative sector, said Radhakrishnan. When contacted, a Finance Ministry official, said an expert committee headed by M S Sreeram of IIM Bangalore, will submit its report on Kerala Bank by December-end or January. Well decide on how to go about the Kerala Bank after studying the Sreeram Committee report. Ravichandran P R of Thrissur DCB said RBI should give special status to the Kerala cooperative banking sector. Unlike the DCBs of north Indian or north eastern states, the Kerala DCBs are very healthy. RBI and the Central Government should have taken this into consideration before meting out discriminatory treatment, he said.
By Express News Service
MALKANGIRI:The vaccination drive against Japanese Encephalitis (JE) to be launched in the first week of December will cover children aged 1-15 years in the entire district, even as the death toll climbed to 92, with two more succumbing to the disease on Sunday.
Speaking at the district level task force meeting on JE vaccination here, Collector K. Sudarshan Chakravarthy said a meeting of the task force comprising ASHA, Anganwadi workers and teachers will be held on November 17 and 18.
About 1200 teams will prepare a list of children in the age group of 1-15 years during the three-day survey to begin from November 20. NGOs have also been roped in for the enumeration.
Chakravarthy said the administration will make all efforts to ensure that no child in the age group is left out.
Once the survey work is over, the vaccination drive will start in the first week of December, the Collector said at the meeting which was attended by Additional DM Reghumani Gamang, DRDA Project Director, Block Development Officers and all district level officials.
Japanese encephalitis, a mosquito-borne viral infection, has claimed 31 lives of the 92 deaths reported so far in the District Headquarters Hospital (DHH).
On Sunday, Lina Madkami (3) of Kataguda village under Kalimela block and Lagna Madkami (2) of Urmaguda village under Sikhpally panchayat of Korukonda block succumbed to the disease. Four more children, whose condition were stated to be serious, are undergoing treatment in the ICU.
Of the total 92 deaths reported so far, the deaths of 31 children were due to the vector-borne disease. The other deaths were due to various reasons and they were found JE negative. But, what resulted in their death is a matter of concern for the Health department officials as the team of experts who are currently visiting the affected villages are yet to reach at any conclusion.
MALKANGIRI:The vaccination drive against Japanese Encephalitis (JE) to be launched in the first week of December will cover children aged 1-15 years in the entire district, even as the death toll climbed to 92, with two more succumbing to the disease on Sunday. Speaking at the district level task force meeting on JE vaccination here, Collector K. Sudarshan Chakravarthy said a meeting of the task force comprising ASHA, Anganwadi workers and teachers will be held on November 17 and 18. About 1200 teams will prepare a list of children in the age group of 1-15 years during the three-day survey to begin from November 20. NGOs have also been roped in for the enumeration. Chakravarthy said the administration will make all efforts to ensure that no child in the age group is left out. Once the survey work is over, the vaccination drive will start in the first week of December, the Collector said at the meeting which was attended by Additional DM Reghumani Gamang, DRDA Project Director, Block Development Officers and all district level officials. Japanese encephalitis, a mosquito-borne viral infection, has claimed 31 lives of the 92 deaths reported so far in the District Headquarters Hospital (DHH). On Sunday, Lina Madkami (3) of Kataguda village under Kalimela block and Lagna Madkami (2) of Urmaguda village under Sikhpally panchayat of Korukonda block succumbed to the disease. Four more children, whose condition were stated to be serious, are undergoing treatment in the ICU. Of the total 92 deaths reported so far, the deaths of 31 children were due to the vector-borne disease. The other deaths were due to various reasons and they were found JE negative. But, what resulted in their death is a matter of concern for the Health department officials as the team of experts who are currently visiting the affected villages are yet to reach at any conclusion.
By Express News Service
ANGUL: The tripartite talks notwithstanding, Kaniha coal mine was paralysed for the fifth consecutive day on Sunday resulting in financial loss to both the State Government and the Centre.
On Saturday night, there was a talk between the local administration and agitating people of Jarada village in presence of the colliery officials where it was decided that the demand of the villagers will be taken up at a higher level before November 26.
The villagers assured to discus among themselves and report to local administration about their decision whether to call off the strike or not. But, there was no communication from their side till Sunday evening. The mine is yet to resume operation.
The villagers of Jarada affected by Kaniha coal mine have been agitating since Wednesday paralysing the coal production and despatch. They have demanded immediate shifting of their village, which according to local administration is not possible due to want of resettlement site. The administration imposed Section 144 in the mines area on Friday evening but women of the village defied it and courted arrest. Later, 152 arrested women were released on bail.
The agitation at Kaniha coal mine, which produces about 40,000 tonnes per day, is a huge setback for its effort to achieve the production target during the current financial year.
ANGUL: The tripartite talks notwithstanding, Kaniha coal mine was paralysed for the fifth consecutive day on Sunday resulting in financial loss to both the State Government and the Centre. On Saturday night, there was a talk between the local administration and agitating people of Jarada village in presence of the colliery officials where it was decided that the demand of the villagers will be taken up at a higher level before November 26. The villagers assured to discus among themselves and report to local administration about their decision whether to call off the strike or not. But, there was no communication from their side till Sunday evening. The mine is yet to resume operation. The villagers of Jarada affected by Kaniha coal mine have been agitating since Wednesday paralysing the coal production and despatch. They have demanded immediate shifting of their village, which according to local administration is not possible due to want of resettlement site. The administration imposed Section 144 in the mines area on Friday evening but women of the village defied it and courted arrest. Later, 152 arrested women were released on bail. The agitation at Kaniha coal mine, which produces about 40,000 tonnes per day, is a huge setback for its effort to achieve the production target during the current financial year.
By Express News Service
BHUBANESWAR: Panic prevailed on Siripur Square-Fire Station road in the City as three motorcycle-borne youths went on a spree of attacking people with a razor on Sunday evening. As many as eight people were injured in the attack that continued for several hours. Later, the injured persons were admitted in Capital Hospital by locals and PCR vans.
The victims said they were first accosted by the youths, who were driving a black coloured Pulsar motorcycle, and asked them to stop. The moment the vehicles stopped, the miscreants demanded money and mobile phones. Even before the victims reacted, the youths slashed their neck with a razor and fled.
Four victims, whose identity was ascertained till the report was filed, are Swagat Kumar Nayak, a BTech student from Puri; Sraban Kumar Das, a grocery store worker from Pipili; Sanjay Mahapatra of Sitaram Slum near Khandagiri and Tikayat Sahu, a driver belonging to Dhenkanal.
I dropped a passenger at ITER and was returning towards Siripur square when three youths, who were following me, told me to stop my car. The moment I rolled down the window glass, one of the youths slashed my cheek with a sharp weapon, Sahu said.
The miscreants attacked Nayak on the Baramunda fly-over, took his two-wheeler and discarded it at an isolated spot. Nayak sustained injuries on his neck. The miscreants motorcycle did not have registration number, one of the injured persons said.
ACP Zone I, Asim Panda said the miscreants committed the act under intoxication. One of them, Amit Mohapatra, was arrested by police at Rupali square while two others have been identified. Lack of night patrolling by police and street lights has turned the area into a favourite spot for anti-socials, the locals alleged.
BHUBANESWAR: Panic prevailed on Siripur Square-Fire Station road in the City as three motorcycle-borne youths went on a spree of attacking people with a razor on Sunday evening. As many as eight people were injured in the attack that continued for several hours. Later, the injured persons were admitted in Capital Hospital by locals and PCR vans. The victims said they were first accosted by the youths, who were driving a black coloured Pulsar motorcycle, and asked them to stop. The moment the vehicles stopped, the miscreants demanded money and mobile phones. Even before the victims reacted, the youths slashed their neck with a razor and fled. Four victims, whose identity was ascertained till the report was filed, are Swagat Kumar Nayak, a BTech student from Puri; Sraban Kumar Das, a grocery store worker from Pipili; Sanjay Mahapatra of Sitaram Slum near Khandagiri and Tikayat Sahu, a driver belonging to Dhenkanal. I dropped a passenger at ITER and was returning towards Siripur square when three youths, who were following me, told me to stop my car. The moment I rolled down the window glass, one of the youths slashed my cheek with a sharp weapon, Sahu said. The miscreants attacked Nayak on the Baramunda fly-over, took his two-wheeler and discarded it at an isolated spot. Nayak sustained injuries on his neck. The miscreants motorcycle did not have registration number, one of the injured persons said. ACP Zone I, Asim Panda said the miscreants committed the act under intoxication. One of them, Amit Mohapatra, was arrested by police at Rupali square while two others have been identified. Lack of night patrolling by police and street lights has turned the area into a favourite spot for anti-socials, the locals alleged.
B Anbuselvan By
Express News Service
TIRUVANNAMALAI: Not many have seen the recently-launched Rs 2,000 currency note. And, this man managed to exploit the ignorance of the common man well, as he bought a bottle of liquor from a TASMAC outlet in exchange of a colour photocopy of Rs 2,000 currency note.
The issue came to light on Saturday afternoon, when a salesman of TASMAC outlet, located in Maruthadu village near Vandavasi bus stand, went to Indian Bank branch at Vandavasi to deposit the daily collection.
While verifying the cash, the employees at the bank found that one of the Rs 2,000 note was indeed a colour photo copy of the currency taken on white paper.
When the policemen, who were deployed at the bank questioned the TASMAC employee, he had reportedly said that the fake note was given by a man in exchange for a bottle of liquor around 9.45pm on Friday.
He said, he had to take the last bus to his village and demanded change. I paid Rs 1,800 to him, the employee said.
The employee alleged that though he felt the note was thicker than the other currency notes, he accepted it as he had not seen C2,000 before, adding he had seen the currency only on television and social media.
Meanwhile, Balachandar, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Vandavasi, said no case was registered yet in this regard as they had not received any complaint.
However, Dhanapaul, district secretary of TASMAC Employees Association, Tiruvannamalai, told Express, the salesmen were given ample training in using fake currency detector to verify the currencies. If any fake currency is found, employees have to pay the money from their pocket. We cannot lodge any complaint, he said, adding he will ask his association members to be more cautious.
TIRUVANNAMALAI: Not many have seen the recently-launched Rs 2,000 currency note. And, this man managed to exploit the ignorance of the common man well, as he bought a bottle of liquor from a TASMAC outlet in exchange of a colour photocopy of Rs 2,000 currency note. The issue came to light on Saturday afternoon, when a salesman of TASMAC outlet, located in Maruthadu village near Vandavasi bus stand, went to Indian Bank branch at Vandavasi to deposit the daily collection. While verifying the cash, the employees at the bank found that one of the Rs 2,000 note was indeed a colour photo copy of the currency taken on white paper. When the policemen, who were deployed at the bank questioned the TASMAC employee, he had reportedly said that the fake note was given by a man in exchange for a bottle of liquor around 9.45pm on Friday. He said, he had to take the last bus to his village and demanded change. I paid Rs 1,800 to him, the employee said. The employee alleged that though he felt the note was thicker than the other currency notes, he accepted it as he had not seen C2,000 before, adding he had seen the currency only on television and social media. Meanwhile, Balachandar, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Vandavasi, said no case was registered yet in this regard as they had not received any complaint. However, Dhanapaul, district secretary of TASMAC Employees Association, Tiruvannamalai, told Express, the salesmen were given ample training in using fake currency detector to verify the currencies. If any fake currency is found, employees have to pay the money from their pocket. We cannot lodge any complaint, he said, adding he will ask his association members to be more cautious.
PIzza was the main draw at the shopping centre attraction as visitors took selfies and banged on the glass window of the tiny enclosure.
Pizza the polar bear will be delivered to an ocean park in North China after an impassioned global campaign to release him from a shopping mall enclosure in Guangzhou.
The Humane Society International (HSI), which led the effort to set free "the world's saddest polar bear" from the confines of an aquarium at the Grandview Shopping Mall in South China's Guangdong province, announced the news in a release on Sunday.
The location of Pizza's new home hasn't been disclosed, but apparently the bear will be reunited with his parents.
The mall, which has maintained that Pizza is well adjusted and well fed, posted its decision on Weibo. Following is the English translation:
"Due to upgrading of exhibition halls, as a testament to urban renewal of Guangzhou, a result of the harmonious collaboration between commerce and tourism, and a witness to urban compassion and hearts of love, Pizza, the 'bear baby' loved by millions of tourists, will say goodbye for a short period of time. He will return to the embrace of his mom and dad.
"This upgrading of the facility will not however affect the normal operation of the aquarium. To say goodbye to this polar bear prince and at the request of the visitors, we shall hold a great and special farewell party for him on November 13. We shall invite all the fans of Pizza, all the staff members of the Grandview Polar Ocean Park who see Pizza as a family member, and all other experts and people who have passion for the development of ocean parks in China to come to the party and to bear witness to the touching moment at the send-off party."
Qin Xiaona, director of the Beijing Capital Animal Welfare Association (CAWA), said: "It's a good decision, the right decision for Pizza, but it's not the end. Temporary is not good enough. Now we hope that Grandview will learn from this episode and move Pizza permanently so that he never again has to endure the dreadful life in a shopping mall.
Pizza has some company at the mall, such as penguins and arctic foxes and wolves.
"We still want to see the aquarium closed once and for all, to see all the animals moved, and we call on the Commerce Ministry to close all shopping mall zoos and aquariums and to prevent these types of zoos from being opened," Qin said.
HSI and CAWA are calling for Pizza's move to be permanent.
Peter Li, HSI's China policy specialist, said: "Pizza the polar bear has endured a life of deprivation and suffering in his small, artificial, glass-fronted room at the shopping mall, so the news that he's getting out at last makes me very happy and relieved for him. At last he will feel the sun on his fur, sniff fresh air and see the sky above him.
"We commend the mall for being gracious enough to listen to Chinese and global voices of concern, and hope they will do the right thing for this poor bear who has already been through enough."
Last month, HSI and a Chinese partner group VShine released video footage showing the polar bear exhibiting distress signs such as head swaying and repetitive pacing.
Desperate: Pizza, the three-year-old polar bear, was trapped in a tiny enclosure at the Grandview Aquarium, in a shopping centre in the southern city of Guangzhou, where he had only a tiny amount of space to run or play.
By Associated Press
WELLINGTON: A powerful earthquake that rocked New Zealand on Monday triggered landslides and a small tsunami, cracked apart roads and homes and left two people dead, but largely spared the country the devastation it saw five years ago when a deadly earthquake struck the same region.
Strong aftershocks continued to shake the country on Monday, rattling the nerves of exhausted residents, many of whom had spent a sleepless night huddled outside after fleeing for higher ground to avoid the tsunami waves.
The magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck the South Island just after midnight in a mostly rural area that's dotted with small towns. Near the epicenter, it opened up snaking fissures in roads and sparked landslides.
The quake caused damage in Wellington, the capital, more than 200 kilometers (120 miles) to the north. It was also strongly felt to the south in the city of Christchurch, which was devastated by an earthquake in 2011 that killed 185 people. Residents said the shaking went on for about three minutes.
Police said one person died in the small coastal town of Kaikoura and another in Mt. Lyford, a nearby ski resort. Several other people had reportedly suffered minor injuries in Kaikoura, police spokeswoman Rachel Purdom said.
Prime Minister John Key flew over the destruction in Kaikoura by helicopter on Monday afternoon, as aftershocks kicked up dust from the landslides below. Cars could be seen lying on their sides and parts of the road were clearly impassable.
"It's just utter devastation. ... That's months of work," Key told acting Civil Defence Minister Gerry Brownlee as they hovered above the damage. Key and Brownlee estimated the clean-up would cost hundreds of millions of dollars and clearing the debris and blocked roads could take months.
Defense force personnel were planning to take food, water and other supplies to Kaikoura on Tuesday.
The prime minister said waves of about 2 meters (6.6 feet) hit the coast but the tsunami threat had since been downgraded to coastal warnings.
He said authorities had no reason to believe the death toll would rise above the two reported fatalities.
"On the very best information we have at the moment, we think it's only likely to be two. But of course there are isolated parts of the country which we don't have perfect eyes on, so we can't be 100 percent sure," he said.
Key said officials had decided not to declare a national emergency because the nation's regions were able to adequately cope with the situation.
The quake completely cut off road access to Kaikoura, said resident Terry Thompson, who added that electricity and most phones were also down in the town of 2,000, a popular destination for tourists taking part in whale-watching expeditions.
Thompson was out of town but managed to reach his wife by cellphone during the night before her phone died.
"She said the glass exploded right out of the double ranch-slider," he said. "The neighbor's chimney was gone, there were breakages and things smashed everywhere."
His wife helped a 93-year-old neighbor and a tourist into her car and drove to higher ground, he said.
"They stayed in the car all night but couldn't sleep," Thompson said. "They're all very, very tired and concerned about the state of their property."
The main road to Kaikoura was blocked in places by landslides, and police were working to airlift out a few tourists stranded in their campervans to the north and south of the town, according to emergency services officials in the nearby Marlborough region.
Kaikoura suffered "major infrastructure damage" in the quake, the Marlborough Emergency Management Group said in a statement. Sewage and water supplies were knocked out, though power was gradually being restored Monday afternoon. Police were in radio communication with the town and mobile phone service was expected to be restored shortly.
The quake temporarily knocked out New Zealand's emergency call number, 111, police reported. In Wellington, it collapsed a ferry loading ramp, broke windows and caused items to fall from shelves. It also forced hundreds of tourists onto the streets as hotels were evacuated.
Australians Paul and Sandra Wardrop and their children Alexander, 15, and William, 12, were on the 10th floor of the Park Hotel when the shaking began.
"We felt that the building was going to collapse," Sandra Wardrop said. "You could hear the sounds of the building shaking and see cracks appearing in the walls, in the plasterwork in the bedroom."
The family was among dozens of people who took shelter in the capital's parliamentary complex, which threw open its doors. It was William's 12th birthday, and while he didn't get to tour Wellington as planned, he did get to meet Key, who visited the displaced tourists.
New Zealand, with a population of 4.7 million, sits on the "Ring of Fire," an arc of seismic faults around the Pacific Ocean where earthquakes are common.
Monday's quake brought back memories of the magnitude 6.3 earthquake that struck Christchurch in 2011 and destroyed much of the downtown area. That quake was one of New Zealand's worst disasters, causing an estimated $25 billion in damage.
Monday's quake was stronger but its epicenter was deeper and much farther from major urban areas. Location, depth and other factors beyond magnitude all contribute to the destructive power of an earthquake.
The location of Monday's quake largely helps explain why the damage was so minimal compared to the 2011 temblor, said Mark Quigley, associate professor of active tectonics at the University of Melbourne in Australia. The 2011 quake was located almost directly beneath Christchurch, meaning tens of thousands of people were exposed to the most violent shaking at the epicenter. Monday's quake was centered in a rural area that is home to just a few thousand people.
The 2011 quake also had a tremendous amount of high frequency energy, including very strong vertical ground motions which felt "like you're being picked up by a giant and being shaken around," Quigley said.
But for those in Christchurch on Monday, the shaking felt very different more of a rolling motion. "They were far enough away that a lot of that high frequency energy was dissipated," he said.
Authorities in Wellington told people who work in the city's central business district to stay home on Monday. Officials said some large buildings were showing signs of structural stress, and the quake would likely have caused a mess in some buildings. The city's suburban rail network was shut while crews checked tracks, bridges and tunnels.
New Zealand's Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management reported that a tsunami wave struck at about 1:50 a.m. and warned residents living in low-lying areas anywhere along the country's east coast to move to higher ground.
There was confusion about the tsunami threat throughout the morning. The ministry initially said there was no threat but later wrote on Twitter "situation has changed - tsunami is possible" before reporting that a tsunami had hit.
The quake was centered 93 kilometers (57 miles) northeast of Christchurch, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The USGS initially estimated it had a magnitude of 7.4 before revising it to 7.8. It said the quake struck at a depth of 23 kilometers (14 miles), after initially putting the depth at 10 kilometers (six miles). Earthquakes tend to be more strongly felt on the surface when they are shallow.
WELLINGTON: A powerful earthquake that rocked New Zealand on Monday triggered landslides and a small tsunami, cracked apart roads and homes and left two people dead, but largely spared the country the devastation it saw five years ago when a deadly earthquake struck the same region. Strong aftershocks continued to shake the country on Monday, rattling the nerves of exhausted residents, many of whom had spent a sleepless night huddled outside after fleeing for higher ground to avoid the tsunami waves. The magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck the South Island just after midnight in a mostly rural area that's dotted with small towns. Near the epicenter, it opened up snaking fissures in roads and sparked landslides. The quake caused damage in Wellington, the capital, more than 200 kilometers (120 miles) to the north. It was also strongly felt to the south in the city of Christchurch, which was devastated by an earthquake in 2011 that killed 185 people. Residents said the shaking went on for about three minutes. Police said one person died in the small coastal town of Kaikoura and another in Mt. Lyford, a nearby ski resort. Several other people had reportedly suffered minor injuries in Kaikoura, police spokeswoman Rachel Purdom said. Prime Minister John Key flew over the destruction in Kaikoura by helicopter on Monday afternoon, as aftershocks kicked up dust from the landslides below. Cars could be seen lying on their sides and parts of the road were clearly impassable. "It's just utter devastation. ... That's months of work," Key told acting Civil Defence Minister Gerry Brownlee as they hovered above the damage. Key and Brownlee estimated the clean-up would cost hundreds of millions of dollars and clearing the debris and blocked roads could take months. Defense force personnel were planning to take food, water and other supplies to Kaikoura on Tuesday. The prime minister said waves of about 2 meters (6.6 feet) hit the coast but the tsunami threat had since been downgraded to coastal warnings. He said authorities had no reason to believe the death toll would rise above the two reported fatalities. "On the very best information we have at the moment, we think it's only likely to be two. But of course there are isolated parts of the country which we don't have perfect eyes on, so we can't be 100 percent sure," he said. Key said officials had decided not to declare a national emergency because the nation's regions were able to adequately cope with the situation. The quake completely cut off road access to Kaikoura, said resident Terry Thompson, who added that electricity and most phones were also down in the town of 2,000, a popular destination for tourists taking part in whale-watching expeditions. Thompson was out of town but managed to reach his wife by cellphone during the night before her phone died. "She said the glass exploded right out of the double ranch-slider," he said. "The neighbor's chimney was gone, there were breakages and things smashed everywhere." His wife helped a 93-year-old neighbor and a tourist into her car and drove to higher ground, he said. "They stayed in the car all night but couldn't sleep," Thompson said. "They're all very, very tired and concerned about the state of their property." The main road to Kaikoura was blocked in places by landslides, and police were working to airlift out a few tourists stranded in their campervans to the north and south of the town, according to emergency services officials in the nearby Marlborough region. Kaikoura suffered "major infrastructure damage" in the quake, the Marlborough Emergency Management Group said in a statement. Sewage and water supplies were knocked out, though power was gradually being restored Monday afternoon. Police were in radio communication with the town and mobile phone service was expected to be restored shortly. The quake temporarily knocked out New Zealand's emergency call number, 111, police reported. In Wellington, it collapsed a ferry loading ramp, broke windows and caused items to fall from shelves. It also forced hundreds of tourists onto the streets as hotels were evacuated. Australians Paul and Sandra Wardrop and their children Alexander, 15, and William, 12, were on the 10th floor of the Park Hotel when the shaking began. "We felt that the building was going to collapse," Sandra Wardrop said. "You could hear the sounds of the building shaking and see cracks appearing in the walls, in the plasterwork in the bedroom." The family was among dozens of people who took shelter in the capital's parliamentary complex, which threw open its doors. It was William's 12th birthday, and while he didn't get to tour Wellington as planned, he did get to meet Key, who visited the displaced tourists. New Zealand, with a population of 4.7 million, sits on the "Ring of Fire," an arc of seismic faults around the Pacific Ocean where earthquakes are common. Monday's quake brought back memories of the magnitude 6.3 earthquake that struck Christchurch in 2011 and destroyed much of the downtown area. That quake was one of New Zealand's worst disasters, causing an estimated $25 billion in damage. Monday's quake was stronger but its epicenter was deeper and much farther from major urban areas. Location, depth and other factors beyond magnitude all contribute to the destructive power of an earthquake. The location of Monday's quake largely helps explain why the damage was so minimal compared to the 2011 temblor, said Mark Quigley, associate professor of active tectonics at the University of Melbourne in Australia. The 2011 quake was located almost directly beneath Christchurch, meaning tens of thousands of people were exposed to the most violent shaking at the epicenter. Monday's quake was centered in a rural area that is home to just a few thousand people. The 2011 quake also had a tremendous amount of high frequency energy, including very strong vertical ground motions which felt "like you're being picked up by a giant and being shaken around," Quigley said. But for those in Christchurch on Monday, the shaking felt very different more of a rolling motion. "They were far enough away that a lot of that high frequency energy was dissipated," he said. Authorities in Wellington told people who work in the city's central business district to stay home on Monday. Officials said some large buildings were showing signs of structural stress, and the quake would likely have caused a mess in some buildings. The city's suburban rail network was shut while crews checked tracks, bridges and tunnels. New Zealand's Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management reported that a tsunami wave struck at about 1:50 a.m. and warned residents living in low-lying areas anywhere along the country's east coast to move to higher ground. There was confusion about the tsunami threat throughout the morning. The ministry initially said there was no threat but later wrote on Twitter "situation has changed - tsunami is possible" before reporting that a tsunami had hit. The quake was centered 93 kilometers (57 miles) northeast of Christchurch, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The USGS initially estimated it had a magnitude of 7.4 before revising it to 7.8. It said the quake struck at a depth of 23 kilometers (14 miles), after initially putting the depth at 10 kilometers (six miles). Earthquakes tend to be more strongly felt on the surface when they are shallow.
By IANS
RIYADH: A Saudi court has sentenced a company manager to one year in jail and 900 lashes for forcing an Asian worker to shave his beard in front of the employees, the media reported on Monday.
The manager threatened to suspend the worker if he did not heed the order, Xinhua news agency reported, without giving details on the reason behind the order.
The court said its verdict was based on the psychological harms that befell the victim.
Expat workforce is in high demand in Saudi Arabia, especially for harsh jobs which have low attraction among local jobseekers.
Saudi Arabia's population grew by 2.4 per cent to 31.52 million last year from 30.77 million in 2014, according to a report based on the Saudi Department of Statistics and Information published in February.
The number of Saudis, who make up two-thirds of the population, increased to 21.1 million last year. The number of expats rose to 10.4 million, it added.
RIYADH: A Saudi court has sentenced a company manager to one year in jail and 900 lashes for forcing an Asian worker to shave his beard in front of the employees, the media reported on Monday. The manager threatened to suspend the worker if he did not heed the order, Xinhua news agency reported, without giving details on the reason behind the order. The court said its verdict was based on the psychological harms that befell the victim. Expat workforce is in high demand in Saudi Arabia, especially for harsh jobs which have low attraction among local jobseekers. Saudi Arabia's population grew by 2.4 per cent to 31.52 million last year from 30.77 million in 2014, according to a report based on the Saudi Department of Statistics and Information published in February. The number of Saudis, who make up two-thirds of the population, increased to 21.1 million last year. The number of expats rose to 10.4 million, it added.
By IANS
BAGHDAD: At least six civilians and six militants were killed on Monday in a suicide attack in Iraq, the Interior Ministry said.
The attack was carried out by six militants in the town of Ain al-Tamr, ministry spokesman Colonel Saad Maan said in a statement.
Iraqi security forces killed five militants, while the sixth reportedly went into a residential building and detonated the explosive device he was wearing, killing six people and injuring another six.
Ain al-Tamr was the scene of a similar attack on a wedding party in August, which resulted in the deaths of 18 people.
BAGHDAD: At least six civilians and six militants were killed on Monday in a suicide attack in Iraq, the Interior Ministry said. The attack was carried out by six militants in the town of Ain al-Tamr, ministry spokesman Colonel Saad Maan said in a statement. Iraqi security forces killed five militants, while the sixth reportedly went into a residential building and detonated the explosive device he was wearing, killing six people and injuring another six. Ain al-Tamr was the scene of a similar attack on a wedding party in August, which resulted in the deaths of 18 people.
By AFP
ISTANBUL: Turkey on Monday closed a border crossing with Syria in the southeastern province of Kilis after violent clashes in the Syrian town of Azaz, a local official said.
"The border gate remains open only for ambulances," the official told AFP on condition of anonymity.
Turkish media reported that the closure of the Oncupinar border crossing, which faces Bab al-Salama inside Syria, was a "temporary" security measure after clashes on Syrian soil.
Turkish media reported that the border closure was a "temporary" security measure after clashes on Syrian soil.
The town of Azaz, not far from the border, is one of many Syrian villages and towns taken by Ankara-backed Syrian opposition fighters since an offensive supported by Turkey began on August 24.
Kilis governor Ismail Catakli said the border was closed to humanitarian aid and trade traffic "due to developments on the other side of the border", the private Dogan news agency reported.
It was unclear when the border crossing would reopen.
Turkey has embarked on an ambitious operation inside Syria dubbed "Euphrates Shield" to support Syrian opposition fighters in a bid to cleanse its border of Islamic State fighters and stop the advance of Syrian Kurdish militia.
The Ankara-backed fighters comprise various brigades rather than one organised force, according to experts.
Deputy Prime Minister Numan Kurtulmus said the rebels had advanced "closer to Al-Bab" -- the next target in Turkey's Syria operation, adding that Turkey resumed aerial support to help rebel forces.
ISTANBUL: Turkey on Monday closed a border crossing with Syria in the southeastern province of Kilis after violent clashes in the Syrian town of Azaz, a local official said. "The border gate remains open only for ambulances," the official told AFP on condition of anonymity. Turkish media reported that the closure of the Oncupinar border crossing, which faces Bab al-Salama inside Syria, was a "temporary" security measure after clashes on Syrian soil. Turkish media reported that the border closure was a "temporary" security measure after clashes on Syrian soil. The town of Azaz, not far from the border, is one of many Syrian villages and towns taken by Ankara-backed Syrian opposition fighters since an offensive supported by Turkey began on August 24. Kilis governor Ismail Catakli said the border was closed to humanitarian aid and trade traffic "due to developments on the other side of the border", the private Dogan news agency reported. It was unclear when the border crossing would reopen. Turkey has embarked on an ambitious operation inside Syria dubbed "Euphrates Shield" to support Syrian opposition fighters in a bid to cleanse its border of Islamic State fighters and stop the advance of Syrian Kurdish militia. The Ankara-backed fighters comprise various brigades rather than one organised force, according to experts. Deputy Prime Minister Numan Kurtulmus said the rebels had advanced "closer to Al-Bab" -- the next target in Turkey's Syria operation, adding that Turkey resumed aerial support to help rebel forces.
By AFP
LONDON: WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange faces questioning by prosecutors Monday at the Ecuadoran embassy in London in a twist in the long-running legal battle over a rape allegation against him.
An Ecuadoran prosecutor will quiz the founder of the secret-spilling website at the red-brick building where he has been holed up for more than four years, with Swedish prosecutor Ingrid Isgren and a Swedish police inspector also attending, officials said.
The 45-year-old Australian sought refuge in the central London embassy in June 2012 after Swedish prosecutors issued a European arrest warrant against him, over allegations of rape and sexual assault filed by two women who met Assange during a 2010 trip to Sweden.
He denied the claims, saying they were politically motivated, and insisting his sexual encounters with the two women were consensual.
He has refused to travel to Sweden for questioning, fearing he would be extradited to the United States over WikiLeaks' release of 500,000 secret military files on the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Swedish prosecutors dropped the sexual assault probe last year after the five-year statute of limitations expired.
But they still want to question him about the 2010 rape allegation, which carries a 10-year statute of limitations.
A Swedish official source said the questioning was expected to begin at around 1000 GMT. The investigators intend to take a DNA sample, subject to his agreement.
"It's planned to last a few days," Assange's lawyer Per Samuelsson told AFP, adding that it was too early to say what might arise from the meeting or what would be made public.
It will be the first time he has been interviewed over the matter since initial questioning by Swedish police at the time of the allegation.
Assange, speaking through his lawyer, has said he welcomes the "chance to clear his name" and hopes the investigation will subsequently close.
In May, a Swedish court reaffirmed the arrest order, rejecting the finding of a UN working group that his confinement in the Ecuadoran embassy amounted to arbitrary detention.
Petition for Trump 'pardon'
In the days since the US election, supporters have launched a petition calling on president-elect Donald Trump to pardon Assange by "absolving him of any crimes alleged against him" -- an apparent reference to the military leaks.
The petition on the change.org website, which has gathered more than 16,500 signatures, hails Assange as a "hero" for exposing the "corruption of those who presume to rule us".
Meanwhile Assange's lawyer said he had made "repeated requests" for an interview with police to address the rape claim, though Ecuadoran prosecutors say a hearing scheduled for October was postponed at the Australian's request.
"Julian Assange has always wanted to tell his version to the Swedish police. He wants a chance to clear his name," Samuelsson told AFP.
The legal grilling comes after WikiLeaks returned to the spotlight with the leak of tens of thousands of emails from the US Democratic Party and presidential candidate Hillary Clinton's campaign in the final weeks of the race for the White House.
Assange defended the publication, denying links with Russia and claims that his website was trying to influence the US vote which saw Republican Trump elected.
Tensions with his Ecuadoran hosts have been growing, with the leaks prompting the embassy to cut Assange's internet access, citing respect for "non-intervention" in the affairs of other states and their electoral processes.
WikiLeaks released medical records in September claiming Assange's mental health was at risk if he remained any longer in the embassy.
LONDON: WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange faces questioning by prosecutors Monday at the Ecuadoran embassy in London in a twist in the long-running legal battle over a rape allegation against him. An Ecuadoran prosecutor will quiz the founder of the secret-spilling website at the red-brick building where he has been holed up for more than four years, with Swedish prosecutor Ingrid Isgren and a Swedish police inspector also attending, officials said. The 45-year-old Australian sought refuge in the central London embassy in June 2012 after Swedish prosecutors issued a European arrest warrant against him, over allegations of rape and sexual assault filed by two women who met Assange during a 2010 trip to Sweden. He denied the claims, saying they were politically motivated, and insisting his sexual encounters with the two women were consensual. He has refused to travel to Sweden for questioning, fearing he would be extradited to the United States over WikiLeaks' release of 500,000 secret military files on the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Swedish prosecutors dropped the sexual assault probe last year after the five-year statute of limitations expired. But they still want to question him about the 2010 rape allegation, which carries a 10-year statute of limitations. A Swedish official source said the questioning was expected to begin at around 1000 GMT. The investigators intend to take a DNA sample, subject to his agreement. "It's planned to last a few days," Assange's lawyer Per Samuelsson told AFP, adding that it was too early to say what might arise from the meeting or what would be made public. It will be the first time he has been interviewed over the matter since initial questioning by Swedish police at the time of the allegation. Assange, speaking through his lawyer, has said he welcomes the "chance to clear his name" and hopes the investigation will subsequently close. In May, a Swedish court reaffirmed the arrest order, rejecting the finding of a UN working group that his confinement in the Ecuadoran embassy amounted to arbitrary detention. Petition for Trump 'pardon' In the days since the US election, supporters have launched a petition calling on president-elect Donald Trump to pardon Assange by "absolving him of any crimes alleged against him" -- an apparent reference to the military leaks. The petition on the change.org website, which has gathered more than 16,500 signatures, hails Assange as a "hero" for exposing the "corruption of those who presume to rule us". Meanwhile Assange's lawyer said he had made "repeated requests" for an interview with police to address the rape claim, though Ecuadoran prosecutors say a hearing scheduled for October was postponed at the Australian's request. "Julian Assange has always wanted to tell his version to the Swedish police. He wants a chance to clear his name," Samuelsson told AFP. The legal grilling comes after WikiLeaks returned to the spotlight with the leak of tens of thousands of emails from the US Democratic Party and presidential candidate Hillary Clinton's campaign in the final weeks of the race for the White House. Assange defended the publication, denying links with Russia and claims that his website was trying to influence the US vote which saw Republican Trump elected. Tensions with his Ecuadoran hosts have been growing, with the leaks prompting the embassy to cut Assange's internet access, citing respect for "non-intervention" in the affairs of other states and their electoral processes. WikiLeaks released medical records in September claiming Assange's mental health was at risk if he remained any longer in the embassy.
China expressed great concerns over the European Union's protectionist measures against Chinese steel products on Saturday, a sign of growing impatience with EU disputes on trade measures and China's market economy status at the WTO, experts said.
The Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) on Saturday said China has expressed great concern and worries over the protectionist tendency the EU has showed in the steel sector.
"The EU has ignored Chinese companies' positive cooperation and pleas, and continues to use the unfair, unreasonable 'surrogate country' [price and cost reference mechanism] to impose higher tariffs [on Chinese products] and seriously harm Chinese companies' interests," the ministry said in a statement releasing on its official website on Saturday.
MOFCOM urged the EU to strictly follow relevant World Trade Organization rules, avoid abusing remedy measures and protect the rights of Chinese companies.
The statement came on the heels of a decision from the European Commission (EC), the governing body of the EU on Saturday, announcing temporary anti-dumping measures against seamless steel products from China for six months.
This is the latest move the EU has taken against Chinese steel products, amid growing disputes between the world's two largest steel producers which stretch back to 2006, when the global market suffered from a supply glut, according to Wang Guoqing, research director at the Beijing Lange Steel Information Research Center.
Wang noted that about a dozen disputes between China and the EU over steel have happened since 2006.
"Steel industries in the EU feel that steel imports from China have hurt their businesses and they claim that China is dumping its steel capacity at a price much lower than the market prices. But it is wrong and unfair for them to blame China for their own problems," Wang told the Global Times on Sunday.
She pointed out that the EU's claim is based on the "surrogate country" mechanism, under which the price and costs of Chinese steel products are compared to a third-party country.
"That is unfair because Chinese companies can control cost and price much more effectively than foreign ones because of the scale and progress the industry have achieved, not because they receive subsidies from the government," Wang said.
Stronger tone
Experts noted that China has stepped up its opposition against the EU's moves to challenge China not only in the steel industry but on the larger issue of whether the latter is trying to deny China "market economy status" at the WTO and keep the "surrogate country" mechanism.
On Friday, both MOFCOM and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs voiced strong opposition to a proposal from the EC to scrap a list of "non-market economies," but leave open the option to use the "surrogate country" mechanism in future anti-dumping cases if "market distortion" was found in a third country.
The two ministries pointed out that the EU's proposal is trying to keep the "surrogate country" mechanism in place with a new regime but not eliminate it at the basics. They urged the EU to execute its obligations under the Article 15 of China's accession to the WTO and eliminate the mechanism.
"I must stress that China will also maintain its right to take all necessary measures to firmly protect its legal interests," Shen Danyang, a spokesperson for MOFCOM told a briefing on Friday.
Concrete actions
Experts also said the EU's "unfair" protectionist measures against Chinese products have caused "great" loss for companies and both the government and companies should focus on taking actions to protect their interests.
Not just words, but necessary concrete actions should be carried out if the EU and others continue to treat China unfairly, according to He Weiwen, an executive council member at the China Society for the WTO.
"Addressing the issue through dialogues would be ideal, but if that doesn't work, we must take actions to firmly defend out rights and interests," He told the Global Times on Sunday.
"They must understand that China has and will strictly comply with WTO rules, and they also must understand China will variously defend itself," He said.
One action China could take is to start a complaint with the WTO for unfair treatment toward Chinese companies, according to He. "This might take some time, but it is the most reasonable one and there is a high possibility the WTO will rule for China if we provide sufficient evidence."
Other actions include imposing "some kind of restrictions" on imports from the EU and "temporarily halting" some trade investment cooperation projects with the EU, experts also noted without further elaborating.
Princess Marie of Denmark visited Oster Farimagsgades school in Copenhagen and met with inventor students who participate in the local final of Edison Inventor Competition Project held by Entrepreneurship Foundation (Fonden for Entreprenorskab) for 6th and 7th classes. That Project is a countrywide inventor contest for students of 6th and 7th classes and the theme of 2016 is "Better and safer traffic". ( VIDEO )
Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark and Princess Mary got married at Copenhagen Cathedral on May 14, 2004. Today is November 14, 2016 and 12 1/2 years have passed since then. The copper wedding anniversary (kobberbryllup) of the Crown Prince Couple is today. Danish Royal Palace published a series of photos on the occasion of that anniversary. For photos: Kongehuset
Portsmouth boy bullied for long hair has plan to donate it
It makes me feel so proud of him, his generous spirit. He cares about others more than he cares about himself sometimes."
Chinese study estimates up to 10 million artifacts from China scattered worldwide
Beijing has stepped up efforts to stop the sale of illegally obtained Chinese cultural relics by auction houses, collectors and museums.
In the latest case, Yokohama International Auction, in Japan, was informed by China's State Administration of Cultural Heritage on Oct 21 that several Tang Dynasty (618-907) frescoes and manuscripts of Buddhist sutras about to go under the hammer were stolen from China in the past century.
The auction house, founded by a Japanese citizen with Chinese ancestry, canceled the sale. The move was a step in the right directionno profit was madebut their return to the unidentified client shows stronger international rules are needed.
A new Chinese regulation, released a day earlier, bans the auction of stolen, smuggled or looted relics. It is aimed especially at keeping such relics in China, but it also can be cited as a guideline when dealing with other countries and regions.
Worldwide, many guidelines also have been issued to push collectors to pay more attention to the origin of cultural relics. "The legal circumstances are getting better," according to Huo Zhengxin, a professor of international law at China University of Political Science and Law.
A study by UNESCO shows there are at least 1.64 million sets of Chinese cultural relics scattered across 200 museums in other countries and regions. The China Cultural Relics Academy, an academic organization, estimates the number would be 10 million if private collections were counted.
Many such treasures were looted during wars and other unrest in China from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. Large-scale theft occurred in the 1990s because of the boom in international market demand.
Reporter/Columnist
Julie Wurth is a reporter covering the University of Illinois at The News-Gazette. Her email is jwurth@news-gazette.com, and you can follow her on Twitter (@jawurth).
Reporter
Tim Mitchell is a reporter at The News-Gazette. His email is tmitchel@news-gazette.com, and you can follow him on Twitter (@mitchell6).
The Lancet Countdown: Tracking Progress on Health and Climate Change is being launched today (Monday 14th Nov) at the COP22 climate talks taking place in Morocco. An international, multi-disciplinary research initiative, it brings together leading experts to track and analyse the impacts of climate change on public health.
The Lancet Countdown will report annually in The Lancet. With input from 48 leading experts from across the world, some 16 institutions are academic partners of the initiative, including University College London, Tsinghua University and the Centre for Climate & Security among others.
The Lancet Countdown is engaged in a special collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) to promote synergies, collaborate on data sources, and ensure strong engagement with Ministries of Health.
With the aim of ensuring the case for action on health and climate change is more widely evidenced and understood, the Lancet Countdown will inform decision-making and drive an accelerated policy response to climate change. It will complement other initiatives, such as the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and its achievements for climate science.
The health impacts of climate change are already being felt and effecting some of the most vulnerable on our planet. No one is immune or out of reach. Climate action, spearheaded by governments and supported by business, cities, investors and citizens - including health care professionals - goes hand-in-hand with delivering a better quality of life in its own right and as a key pillar of the Sustainable Development Goals." Patricia Espinosa, Executive Secretary, UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
The interrelation of climate change and public health is becoming increasingly clear. The Lancet Countdown builds on the findings of the 2015 Lancet Commission on Health and Climate Change, which concluded that climate change posed both a "potentially catastrophic risk to human health", while conversely being "the greatest global health opportunity of the 21st century" if the right steps are taken.
Dr Richard Horton, Editor-in-Chief of The Lancet said: "One challenge of the ongoing global climate crisis is to convey the urgency of our collective predicament and the need for decisive action. The Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change is being launched today to amass the evidence needed to hold policy makers accountable for their promises and commitments.
The research community can make an important contribution to heightening political awareness and accelerating progress to a healthier, low-carbon world. These are the goals of our Countdown on Health and Climate Change."
A broader evidence base on interrelated health and climate change trends will notably help demonstrate clear co-benefits of action. An estimated 18000 people die every day due to air pollution exposure, making it the world's largest single environmental health risk. The World Bank in turn estimates it costs the global economy US$225 billion a year in related lost labour income.
CO 2 and other green house gasses from road transport and fossil fuel energy generation responsible for the bulk of air pollution in the first place, are also a leading cause of climate change. Health and economic co-benefits from addressing climate change - be it mitigation or adaptation - only add to the impetus for action, given that changes to climate take longer to be felt.
The Lancet Countdown is partnering with the Wellcome Trust, which is committed to stimulating research on health and climate change.
The Paris Agreement is a step in the right direction, but we must build on this momentum. The Lancet Countdown is an important opportunity to ensure that evidence gets to those audiences that can bring about the changes in policy and practice that we need to protect the health of both humans and the planet." Dr Sarah Molton, lead for 'Our Planet, Our Health' at Wellcome.
The Lancet Countdown comes at a crucial time for international cooperation and national action on climate change, following ratification of the Paris Agreement and the announcement of the 2030 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
As part of this transition, healthcare professionals, governments and countries will have to shift from an understanding of climate change solely as a threat, to one which embraces the response to climate change as an opportunity for human health and wellbeing. The Lancet Countdown is aligned with the SGD process in working to ensure the health challenge posed by climate change is resolved by 2030.
Dr Diarmid Campbell-Lendrum, Head of the Health and Climate Change team at the World Health Organization, said: "The Paris Agreement was a landmark achievement - the challenge now is to meet the targets agreed by world leaders. The WHO is working directly with countries to provide evidence of the specific health risks that each of them faces, and the health opportunities of a resilient, low carbon future - as well as the support that they need to respond to this defining health issue of our time."
"The WHO is working with The Lancet Countdown to track progress, and to mobilize support for more ambitious action. When it comes to climate change, when the world drags its feet, the health of our patients all around the globe suffer."
The relationship between health and climate change, will be addressed by The Lancet Countdown through in-depth analysis across relevant themes in the context of global, regional, national, and city level trends. The scope of the research, analysis and basis for the creation of the initiative is outlined in detail in an accompanying paper published today in The Lancet.
This provides more detail on the principle themes the Lancet Countdown will cover, namely: the health impacts of climate change; health resilience and adaptation; the health co-benefits of mitigation; finance and economics; and political and broader engagement.
Academics and policy experts are invited to join the Lancet Countdown, as it undertakes a three month public consultation process on the scope and focus of the initiative, with events planned in London, Marrakech, Lima, Kampala, Beijing and San Francisco.
Chinese President Xi Jinpings state visit to Ecuador, the first visit to the Latin American country by a Chinese head of state, is of milestone significance and will lift bilateral relations to a new high, Chinese ambassador to Ecuador Wang Yulin said in an article published in the Peoples Daily on Friday before Xi kicked off his tour.
The following is the translation of the article:
Ecuador is a South American country of great importance. It covers 256,000 square kilometers and has a population of 16 million. With rich natural resources, great biodiversity and abundant agricultural products, the time-honored country is a major producer and exporter of bananas, cocoa, prawns and flowers.
Though China and Ecuador are far away from each other, the friendship between the two people goes back a long time. Since the two nations established diplomatic ties in 1980, they have enhanced mutual political trust, deepened pragmatic cooperation in trade and finance, intensified cultural exchanges and maintained close coordination in international and regional affairs.
I had a chance to visit Ecuador in 1997, during when I was touched by the friendship shown to China and the Chinese people from this South American country far away on the other side of the Pacific.
As the 13th Chinese ambassador to Ecuador, I am honored to witness the fruitful results of this bilateral strategic partnership. As bilateral ties now march toward multidimensional and wide-ranging development, China and Ecuador have become sincere and trusting friends with mutually beneficial cooperation, and their ties are now better than ever.
With increasing exchanges at all levels, both nations have also witnessed a deepening political trust. Ecuadoran President Rafael Correa completed a successful state visit to China in January, 2015, during which, the two heads of state announced the elevation of bilateral ties to a strategic partnership. At the same time, the two countries strengthened political, military, congressional and local exchanges on all fronts.
The pragmatic cooperation between China and Ecuador in trade and finance has yielded great success. China is now the third biggest trade partner for Ecuador, while Ecuador is Chinas important energy cooperation partner in Latin America, a major destination for Chinese investment and financing as well as a market for contract work.
Bilateral trade volume reached $3.8 billion in 2015 and products including bananas, prawns and flowers exported from Ecuador are favored by Chinese consumers. Over 90 Chinese enterprises have landed in Ecuador. A series of strategic projects, such as ECU 911,a nationwide system for emergency responses, and Coca Codo Sinclair, a hydropower station built by Chinese enterprises, have been put into use one after another. The hydropower station is the biggest in Ecuador.
These projects, brought about through bilateral pragmatic cooperation, have yielded tangible benefits to both countries.
Both countries have also increased their cultural exchanges and deepened person-to-person friendships. People in Ecuador admire the glorious Chinese history and profound Chinese civilization. Meanwhile, the beautiful natural views and exuberant local culture also draws more and more Chinese citizens to the wondrous South American nation.
Bilateral exchanges in technology, culture and education are showing great momentum. Over 400 students from Ecuador are studying in China. This August, a visa-free agreement formally took effect in both countries, which will allow more convenient exchanges.
After a 7.8-magnitude earthquake hit the west coast of Ecuador on April 16, causing heavy casualties and property loss, the Chinese government reached out to the victims with compassion and sympathy. Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his condolences to his Ecuadoran counterpart Rafael Correa and the Chinese government and Red Cross Society of China offered monetary aid to Ecuador and the local Red Cross.
In addition to these efforts, humanitarian relief materials were provided by the Chinese government. Chinese enterprises and Chinese citizens in Ecuador also lent a helpful hand in the disaster relief. Despite the long distance, many Chinese rescue teams went to the disaster-stricken areas to send their help.
A friend in need is a friend indeed. In Ecuadors most difficult times, Chinas actions not only speak volumes for the bilateral strategic partnership and brotherly relationship, but also impress upon the world its responsibility.
Xis upcoming state visit to Ecuador will be the first made by a Chinese head of state. With monumental meanings, it will surely bring bilateral ties to a new level. I believe that with concerted efforts on both sides, the China-Ecuador strategic partnership will make greater developments and will bring benefits to both countries and their people.
In the past, insoles for patients with diabetes were hand-made by orthopedic shoemakers. In the future, these specialist shoemakers will be able to produce insoles more cost-effectively thanks to new software and the use of 3D printers. This approach means the mechanical properties of each insole can be assessed scientifically and more effectively.
Is your shoe too tight? Normally you would just shift your weight to take the pressure off the area that is sore. In people with diabetes, however, the nerve endings in the foot often become atrophied, and those affected cannot feel the soreness. This can give rise to pressure points and eventually wounds that heal badly. A remedy, or at least some relief, is promised by insoles that are very soft in the area of the injury, and that are custom-made by orthopedic shoemakers in a variety of materials. Up until now, however, it has not really been possible to assess the success of insoles scientifically - each insole is a one-off item, after all. So it is in the interests of health insurances companies to have the process surrounding insoles digitalized to allow the collection of scientific data on them.
Digitalizing the manufacture of insoles
It will soon be possible to digitalize the manufacture of insoles. LAUF, a German acronym for "laser-assisted construction of customized footwear", refers to a project funded by Germany's Federal Ministry of Education and Research. Researchers from the Fraunhofer Institutes for Mechanics of Materials IWM and for Environmental, Safety, and Energy Technology UMSICHT are collaborating with industry partners on the process of digitalization. "Digital foot mapping is already common practice. As part of this project, we have now also completely digitalized the insole production process," says IWM scientist Dr. Tobias Ziegler. "Using newly developed software, the orthopedic shoemaker can design an insole for an individual patient and can print out the result on a 3D printer." This has a number of immediate advantages: On the one hand, the mechanical properties of each insole become readily apparent, which is something health insurance companies want. On the other, insoles can be produced at greatly reduced cost. In two or so years, this software might be available to orthopedic technicians through IETEC, a member of the project.
Covestro and Lehmann&Voss&Co laid the foundations for the 3D printing of insoles some years ago. These industry partners were the first to develop a soft material for 3D printing in the form of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Working together with UMSICHT experts, they are now developing other types of TPU that are expected to be even more suitable for use in orthopedic insoles.
Accurate adjustment of insole rigidity
IWM scientists have meanwhile been optimizing the three-dimensional structures that are required of TPU when it is used for insoles. How soft or rigid insoles are depends not just on the material itself, but also on how it is shaped. "First we think about structures - straight rods, crooked arms, or triangles, for instance - then we produce a computer model of them, key in the data for a particular material, and simulate how rigid the result is under pressure," Ziegler explains. "Where does an insole need to be soft, or more rigid? By altering the structure type, we can precisely determine the rigidity of the insole." The IWM team uses application-oriented load simulations to resolve which structures are needed where to achieve the desired properties. They test the material's load-bearing strength and its expected lifespan. "We simulate the entire production process, too, in order to identify where there is potential for optimization," Ziegler explains. He also uses this approach in relation to other materials and structures for 3D printing.
Data relating to different insoles is next sent to Fraunhofer IWM's industrial partners rpm GmbH and Sintermask. Their 3D printers print them by means of selective laser sintering, an additive manufacturing technique. Another partner, Explius, is responsible for processing the 3D data. The job of the team at Fraunhofer UMSICHT is to optimize the printing process. Once an insole has been printed, it goes back to Fraunhofer IWM, where it is tested to the point of failure using tensile, abrasion, and bending tests. The first insole prototypes have already been produced in this way.
Children hospitalized for medical or surgical procedures who have an existing mental health condition stay in the hospital longer than children without these conditions. Pediatric researchers who analyzed a national database recommend that health care policymakers and hospital administrators improve systems to more efficiently provide mental health care to hospitalized children.
The research, published online Nov. 11 in Pediatrics, is the first study to show how comorbid mental health conditions, such as anxiety, ADHD and depression, can impact a child's care in the hospital.
"Most hospitalized children and their families are eager to go home as soon as they can - extra days in the hospital are missed days at school for kids, missed days at work for parents and a disruption to family routines," said lead author Stephanie Doupnik, MD, a researcher in PolicyLab at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. "Unfortunately, we're seeing that mental health conditions add a layer of complexity to hospital care that causes kids with mental health conditions to stay in the hospital longer and use additional resources."
Investigating 670,000 hospitalizations in the 2012 Kids' Inpatient Database, the study team found that existing mental health conditions were present in one in seven medical and surgical hospitalizations of children aged 3 to 20. For nine types of surgical procedures - including appendectomy, knee procedures and gall bladder removal - having one mental health condition increased 61 percent of children's hospital stays by one day. In this same population, having two or more mental health conditions added one day to every child's stay.
For nine types of medical hospitalizations - such as chemotherapy, headache and diabetes - having one mental health condition added an extra day in the hospital for 28 percent of children. Furthermore, having two more mental health conditions added a day to 50 percent of these children's hospital stays.
These increases totaled nearly 32,000 additional hospital days nationwide in 2012, costing an additional $90 million.
The study indicated certain populations that may require more attention than others. Adolescents had more than twice as many additional hospital days associated with an existing mental health condition compared to 3- to 12-year-old children. Additionally, children hospitalized for medical reasons commonly had depression and anxiety disorders, which added days to their hospital stay, and children hospitalized for surgical procedures commonly experienced substance abuse and anxiety disorders, which lengthened their time in the hospital.
According to the study's authors, potential explanations for the extended hospital stays include a lower ability to cope with pain and other symptoms of acute illness, lower adherence to treatment plans and a lack of care coordination outside of the hospital.
"My patients often tell me how difficult it is to get mental health care outside of the hospital, and they are grateful when clinicians can provide mental health care services in the hospital or help them get treatment after they go home," said Dr. Doupnik. "In order to ensure mental health conditions aren't adding unnecessary days to children's hospital stays that also use additional hospital resources, we need systems of care that provide efficient and convenient access to mental health clinicians for children who need mental health treatments."
"There is no question that we can do a better job addressing the mental health needs of these hospitalized children," said Jay Berry, MD, MPH, pediatrician and hospitalist with the Complex Care Service at Boston Children's Hospital, assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School, and senior author of the study. "I look forward to the action that will be taken because of Dr. Doupnik's findings."
Congenital heart disease (CHD), a group of abnormalities in the heart that develop before birth - including holes in the heart, leaky or narrow valves, and incomplete or missing parts - affects nearly one percent of all babies born in the United States each year - upwards of 40,000 infants. Early in their lives these children often undergo multiple cardiovascular surgeries to repair their hearts, and have to be cared for by a cardiologist for the rest of their lives. In recent years treatments for these defects have saved the lives of thousands of children who once died in childhood. As more women with CHD survive into their childbearing years, new challenges have arisen: doctors must now assess their risk for pregnancy-related complications and care for those issues throughout the pregnancy.
New research from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania reveals that women with CHD who are deemed high risk by conventional measures are more likely to have safe, healthy pregnancies than current risk-assessments suggest. Their findings will be presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2016.
"Our findings are extremely promising for women with CHD who are entering their childrearing years, as we now know there is a better chance of a healthy, low-risk pregnancy," said the study's lead author, Yuli Kim, MD, director of the Philadelphia Adult Congenital Heart Center, a joint program between Penn Medicine and The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, and an assistant professor of Medicine in the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. "With the tools currently used to evaluate risk, such as Pregnancy and Congenital Heart Disease (ZAHARA) and Cardiac Disease in Pregnancy (CARPREG) risk scores, clinicians have actually been over estimating the risk of complication for some of these women, which could be discouraging when making the decision to have children."
The researchers examined 186 women over 18 with CHD who had given birth between 1998 and 2014, and applied risk scores from CARPREG and ZAHARA, and assigned modified WHO criteria to each patient. Cardiac events, such as arrhythmia, heart failure, stroke, heart attack, cardiac arrest, or cardiac death, were assessed for up to six months after birth. There were 31 cardiac events - representing 17 percent of all pregnancies - but none of the women died. With the CARPREG model, the estimated risk versus observed adverse events differed greatly from 75 to 25 percent, and with ZAHARA, estimated risk was 70 percent and observed events were 38 percent.
The CARPREG study, a large prospective study across 13 centers in Canada, evaluated 599 pregnancies that ended in a live birth, to determine and validate a risk score. One point was given to each of the five identified risk factors - including prior episodes of heart failure, stroke before pregnancy, or arrhythmias - and a cardiac event rate was calculated according to the total number accumulated. The other tool currently used, ZAHARA, comes from multicenter registry in the Netherlands and Belgium, which examined 1302 pregnancies in 714 women, which also ended in live birth. Eight risk factors were identified to predict cardiac complications during pregnancy, and ZAHARA assigned points from zero to 13 to each factor with a higher total equating to a higher risk of cardiac complication. Conversely, the modified WHO criteria assigned a risk score to the patient from one to four, based on the mother's level of underlying CHD, history of repair and clinical status.
"Risk assessment tools are very beneficial on a global scale, but the best way to evaluate patients and determine potential risk is to evaluate each patient on an individual level," Kim said. "The results from this study will certainly be helpful in reassuring woman with CHD that most patients in similar situations have successful pregnancy, especially if they are managed in a high-risk clinic."
She noted that additional research is needed in order to better identify higher risk patients, but that this data will be helpful in the clinical management of CHD patients who are navigating their pregnancy, allowing these women to follow a more standard care plan with their cardiologist and OB/GYN.
New Delhi: Stocks, bonds and currency markets in the country were closed on Monday on the occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti amid chaos over currency ban.
Trading will resume on Tuesday.
The Nifty fell 2.69 percent to end at 8,296.30, while the Sensex fell 2.54 percent to 26,818.82 on Friday.
The rupee fell to 67.25/26 from its previous close of 66.6250/66.6350, while the benchmark 10-year bond yield rose 6 basis points to 6.72 percent.
Guru Nanak Jayanti marks the birth of 1st Sikh guru and its founder, Guru Nanak Devji, back in 1469 and the festival is celebrated every year on a full moon day in the month of Kartik (November).
The Sikh community in the country came together for the 547th birthday celebrations of the first Sikh guru, Guru Nanak Devji on November 14.
New Delhi: Several banks in the country received 3 trillion rupees of 500-and 1,000-rupee notes over the last four days, the Finance Ministry said on Sunday, after the Narendra Modi-led NDA government announced it would withdraw such bills to crack down on corruption.
The government also relaxed cash withdrawal limits including removing a per-day cap of 10,000 rupees, increasing the weekly limit to 24,000 rupees from 20,000 and allowed exchange of bills over the counter at banks to reach 4,500 rupees instead of 4,000.
From automated teller machines, individuals will now be able to take out up to 2,500 rupees of cash per day instead of 2,000 rupees per day, the ministry said in a statement.
These relaxations came as public anger increased due to a lack of access to accounts, as well as over the non-functioning of ATMs not yet reconfigured for the new series of smaller 2,000-rupee bills.
Itanagar: Shocked by the murder of Dainik Bhaskar journalist Dharmendra Kumar Singh by unidentified assailants at Amra in Bihar on Saturday, the state press fraternity condemned the incident and urged the Nitish Kumar government to bring justice to the aggrieved family.
Singh was gunned down by unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants on Saturday morning, making it the second murder of a journalist in the state in the past six months.
In a joint statement issued today, the Arunachal Press Club (APC), Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) and Arunachal Electronic Media Association (AEMA) expressed deep shock at the killing of the journalist who took on powerful local mafia on many occasions through his work.
The fraternity termed the incident as cowardice and an attempt to muzzle freedom of speech.
It urged the Bihar government to come up with a mechanism to protect scribes in the state so that crusaders of freedom of speech should not be cowed down.
"Murder of journalist reflects the law and order situation of a state, it is the duty of the government of Bihar to protect the press fraternity and ensure safety of all scribes in the state," the press bodies stated in a condemnation statement.
It also said that perpetrators should be brought to justice and be awarded exemplary punishment, so that it sends message across the board.
Expressing solidarity with media fraternity in Bihar as well as the aggrieved family, APC, APUWJ and AEMA stated that courageous and fierce writings of Singh will embolden and inspired working journalists across the India.
There is nothing that makes me more proud than working for my country and to make sure it is freed of the corrupt and black money. My mother compares (me) to a soldier, he said with a smile, as people waiting in a long queue shouted at him to refill the ATM.
We usually come during odd hours to refill the machines. But now with this excess pressure, we often end up making multiple trips in a single day and the customers often know when we are coming. The queue is already very long by the time we reach, and hence we are hounded, he said.
They had been directed to carry an extra pair of clothes, toothbrush to office and its been five days they are working from office and many of them havent even taken a bath for five days. There are only 40,000 people working but there have been numerous instances when they have been abused and roughed up by customers. People need to be patient, he said.
With patience thinning out and queues getting longer, people in the city have pinned their hopes of getting some currency on the Cash gaadi (Cash refilling van).Men running out of these vehicles to make way through anxious crowds and refill Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) could be a common sight for many more days as the country grapples with demonetisation of Rs 500 and 1000 notes.In India, most of the banks have outsourced the job of refilling and maintaining ATMs.Nitin Mohan, an engineering graduate from Thiruvananthapuram, was breathless when News18 caught him while he was offloading a cash vault from a van near Lajpat Nagar. He has been working almost 19 hours a day and often uses public baths and washrooms to avoid travelling back home.President of the Cash Logistics Association of India, Rituraj Sinha, told News18 that when this announcement of demonetisation was made on November 9th in a joint address to the workers who replenish ATMs. He said he told them that neither financial incentive nor bonus would be provided for the work but it should be treated as a national duty.At another area near Shahpur Jat, there was palpable anger in the growing crowd next to a closed ATM. The cash van was supposed to reach at 7 pm, we are standing here since 5 pm, said a disgruntled man standing to withdraw some cash.But the mood changed when the public saw a cash van approaching. Within 30 minutes, the machine was loaded and got back to work tending cash. Mehboob Alam, who refilled the machine, did not complain. Yes for the past couple of days, I have not had dinner or lunch properly, may be some tea or biscuits, but its the same case everywhere, he said.Most of the personnel involved in this operation that News18 spoke to earn a meagre Rs 6,000 to 8,000 a month, with some companies making an exception by paying their phone bills. ATMs which were loaded with Rs 4 lakhs before November 9 used to need refilling after a couple of days as they we were used sparingly. But now, they run out of cash within a few hours.ATM personnel were roughed and abused in Noidas Sector 18 and Delhis Akshardham.Jatinder Singh, a personnel working to refill the State Bank of India ATM near Akshardham said that people got information from the bank about the time they will arrive which added to the chaos.Singh added that they still dont mind this extra pressure as it was a service to the nation.Sinha said its time people understand how these 40,000 ATM personnel are killing themselves to help ease the situation.According to Sinha, many of the workers have families either starving or borrowing money from neighbours.
New Delhi: A retired Judge of the Delhi High Court and a former Law Commission member has called the All India Judicial Services an impossible idea, saying the concept has problems deeper than the local language barrier as being projected from various state and district courts of India.
This comes at a time when Chief Justice of India, TS Thakur, is preparing to meet chief justices of all the high courts to convince them to adopt the idea.
Speaking to News18, Justice (retd) Usha Mehra said that most of the criticism against the common exam for the services was how the local language will impact penning down judgments, but the problem could be graver leading to vitiating the entire process of justice mechanism.
After such an exam, a judge belonging to Haryana may be deputed to a district court in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Problem starts with appreciation of the witness statement. A native will never know English, and will speak in his own language, how the judge will cope with such a situation (sic), Justice Mehra said.
The chief justices' conferences in 1961, 1963 and 1965 proposed the creation of an AIJS, but the proposal had to be shelved after some states and HCs opposed it. But this idea was again proposed before Justice PN Bhagwati in 1984.
Justice Bhagwati had also allowed this idea to move ahead, but again the states and High Courts opposed this move, and it had to be dropped off, Mehra said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the golden jubilee celebrations of Delhi High Court mooted and revived the shelved plan and now the CJI plans to convince the high court chief justices to allow the exam to see the light of the day.
There have been oppositions also because many High Courts hold their exams on similar days, thereby depriving many from an opportunity to appear at multiple places, but the AIJS will seek to address this problem as well. But Justice Mehra believes this problem could even lead to an innocent be charged of a serious crime.
The judges will start depending on the court masters for translations and if out of prejudice or any other issue, the translation is wrong; an accused can even be wrongly sentenced or charged. Is there any mechanism to address such a situation? The problem cannot be addressed with just an exam, Mehra said. She headed the Justice Mehra commission while submitting its report in 2013 on the Nirbhaya gang rape case.
The governments idea of creating AIJS derives validity from the constitutional amendment which was carried out in 1977 to Article 312 which provided for the creation of such a body. But Mehra told News18 that treating AIJS on par with IAS officers as in the article was not possible.
IAS officers can always learn the language or adjust through secretaries, but judiciary has a deeper role to play which involves the appreciation of statements of witnesses by the judges, and this often determines what sentences to deliver, she said.
She also said that the time lapse government was trying to address by bringing in this system would eventually backfire. In Chennai, up to district judge level, it is compulsory to write a judgment in Tamil. Now one may argue that local languages itself should be scrapped from creating hindrances and English be uniformly applied, but judgments are not penned on its own, it involves appreciation of facts, circumstances and evidences, and all of them are mostly in the local language, terminologies or references. The time lapse we are trying to address with such an exam will prove futile, because here the pendency will further increase, with each case taking a lot of time to be decided, she said.
Jerusalem: Terming India as a "close friend", Israel President Reuven Rivlin on Monday arrived in Mumbai on a six-day visit to strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries that he said were places of "innovation and inspiration".
Rivlin, who arrived with a large delegation of businessmen and academics, will join President Pranab Mukherjee in opening an agro-tech conference in Chandigarh, hold meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swarajand visit several sites of cooperation and joint projects between the two countries.
He will also pay his respects at the sites of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks and lay wreaths on the tomb of Mahatma Gandhi and at the memorial for Indian soldiers who fell in the WWI in combat in Israel and the Middle East.
Six Jews had been killed at the Mumbai Chabad house during the Mumbai terror attacks which left more than 166 dead. Rivlin, accompanied on the trip by his wife, will also hold meetings with senior Indian officials and with leaders of the Jewish community.
"I am departing now on an important visit to India, an important ally and close friend of Israel, a state with whom we have much in common," Rivlin said just before leaving for New Delhi yesterday.
"Israel and India are both countries of innovation and of inspiration. Countries that have ancient traditions, but have built strong and thriving hi-tech economies, and now celebrate 25 years of diplomatic relations. This visit is a sign of the strong relations and friendship between our peoples, and I hope will plant the seeds for that friendship to grow closer and closer," he said.
The academic delegation accompanying Rivlin includes Presidents and senior representatives of 13 Israeli academic institutions who are expected to sign 15 separate agreements between Israeli and Indian educational institutions.
"The issue of international cooperation in higher education and the expansion of academic ties between Israel and the world - in particular with India - is one of the central aims of the multi-year plan for higher education in Israel," said Yaffa Zilbershats, head the Council for Higher Education's budget committee.
The expansion of academic ties would include student exchanges, joint research projects and the founding of inter-institutional fora to promote academic cooperation between Israeli and India universities and colleges, he noted. Rivlin, in the past, has complimented theIndianstudents in Israel, saying "they are among the best" of the lot.
"India represents a great challenge for Israeli manufacturers and this delegation will afford the opportunity to strengthen cooperation and partnership with their Indian counterparts," said Shraga Brosh, President of Manufacturers Association of Israel, who is heading the business delegation.
"I have no doubt that this will be a fruitful visit and forge long-lasting economic partnerships which will strengthen and help grow the bilateral trade between the countries", Brosh said.
Speculation is rife that Rivlin's visit would pave the way for Modi's visit to Jerusalem, the first by an Indian Prime Minister and is likely to take place next year when the two countries celebrate 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.
Israel has consistently remained the second largest supplier of defence equipment to India for many years and its "timely" supply of Indian requirements during the Kargil War has earned it the tag of a 'reliable' partner.
The Indo-Israel bilateral trade has also registered a remarkable growth reaching a figure of almost USD 5 billion starting from a humble USD 200 million in 1992.
Ghazipur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday reiterated the benefits of the demonetisation, attacked Congress and the opposition and pleaded with people to temporarily bear with the pain of cash shortage.
Here are the key takeways.
On taking on strong interests
- Those against me are strong people. But, I am not be scared of them. I will not leave the path of truth and integrity
- Have you seen people throwing their notes in the Ganga? You sinners, your sins will not be washed even by the Ganga
Attacking Congress and the Opposition
- Congress also withdrew the 25 paisa coin without asking anyone. They did things at their stature, I did something of my stature
-You [Congress] imposed emergency and turned the country into an open prison for 19 months
- Some parties are facing major problem, a big worry on their minds right now is what to do
On the Inconvenience Faced by people, farmers
-It is a big task to introduce new notes. I have sought 50 days and all these processes will be completed by December 30. It will take some time and hardship
- Pained by the inconvenience faced by common people
- The pressure on farmers will be reduced significantly with this scheme
- We have introduced a comprehensive crop insurance scheme for farmers
On Rationale for Demonetisation
- Enemy is flooding India with counterfeit notes. We need to put an end to this
-Fake money from across the border is funding Naxalites and terrorists
Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend the 24th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation APEC Economic Leaders' Summit in Lima, Peru from November 19 to 20. China has been an active participant and contributor, playing a significant role in promoting the construction of the family Asia-Pacific. President Xi Jinping has repeatedly elaborated his views on regional cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region and pointed out the direction for APEC's development and economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region.
1. To create favorable conditions for the eventual economic integration in the Asia Pacific
As the top-level, broadest and most influential economic cooperation organization in the Asia Pacific, APEC should play a leading and coordinating role in promoting information sharing, transparency and openness among the various free trade arrangements so that they could learn from one another, promoting, reinforcing, and complementing one another to create favorable conditions for the eventual economic integration in the Asia Pacific.
Chinese President Xi Jinping gave a joint written interview to media from Indonesia and Malaysia before his state visits to these two countries, and attendance to the APEC leaders' meeting in October 2013.
2. Common development, open development, innovation-driven development and interconnected growth
"Boundless is the ocean where we sail with the wind." Like a vast ocean, the Asia Pacific offers enough sailing space for us to make progress together. Each and every APEC member has a stake in the future development of the Asia Pacific.
First, an Asia-Pacific region that seeks common development.
Second, an Asia-Pacific region that stays committed to open development.
Third, an Asia-Pacific region that promotes innovation-driven development.
Fourth, an Asia-Pacific region that pursues interconnected growth.
On Oct. 7, 2013, President Xi Jinping attended the APEC CEO Summit in Bali, Indonesia, and delivered an important speech "Deepen Reform and Opening up to Build a Better Asia-Pacific",
3. We should strengthen the sense of community of common destiny
The Asia-Pacific economies are interdependent on each other, with shared interests and common destiny. The success or failure of one may ultimately lead to success or failure of all. In this chain of dynamic interactions, one economy's development will have a knock-on effect on other economies. We should strengthen the sense of community of common destiny, contribute to other's development with that of one's own, tap fully into our respective strengths through coordination and interconnection, pass on positive energy and achieve sound interactions and coordinated development among all economies.
On Oct. 7, 2013, President Xi Jinping attended the APEC CEO Summit in Bali, Indonesia, and delivered an important speech "Deepen Reform and Opening up to Build a Better Asia-Pacific",
4. To create and fulfill an Asia-Pacific dream
The development prospect of our region hinges on the decisions and actions we take today. We are duty-bound to create and fulfill an Asia-Pacific dream for our people. This dream is about acting in the spirit of the Asia-Pacific community and out of a sense of shared destinies, following the trend of our times, i.e. peace, development and mutually beneficial cooperation, and jointly working for the prosperity and progress of our region. It is about staying ahead of global development and making greater contribution to the well-being of mankind. It is about having more economic vibrancy, free trade and investment facilitation, better roads, and closer people-to-people exchanges. And it is about ensuring greater security and prosperity for our people and giving our children a better environment to grow, work and live.
Chinese President Xi Jinping made the remarks when addressing the APEC CEO Summit in Beijing on Nov. 9, 2014.
5. Only the reformers and innovators will emerge stronger and win
Life never favors those who always follow the beaten path and content themselves with the status quo. Instead, life saves opportunities for people who are willing and able to reform and innovate. In this new round of global growth, only the reformers and innovators will emerge stronger and win. We need to be courageous and pioneering, vigorously pursue reform and innovation, actively explore a new path and model that meet our own development needs and look for new growth points and impetus.
Chinese President Xi Jinping made the remarks when addressing the APEC CEO Summit in Beijing on Nov. 9, 2014.
6. To draw a blueprint for comprehensive connectivity
We need to draw a blueprint for comprehensive connectivity. Connectivity and infrastructure building in the Asia-Pacific is not only a necessity to achieve regional economic integration, but more importantly, it bears on the long-term development of all economies. We should work together to bring about connectivity covering both sides of the Pacific, which includes: hardware connectivity that brings the economies closer and paves the way for an Asia-Pacific connected with each other and the world; software connectivity that enhances alignment and coordination of policies, laws and regulations and creates convenient and efficient supply chains; and human connectivity that promotes people-to-people exchanges and fosters trust and friendship.
Chinese President Xi Jinping made the remarks when addressing the APEC CEO Summit in Beijing on Nov. 9, 2014.
7. To build an Asia-Pacific partnership of mutual trust, inclusiveness, cooperation and win-win progress
We are all members of the APEC community. It meets the common interests of us all to foster an open economy in the Asia-Pacific featuring innovative development, interconnected growth and converging interests. To achieve this goal, all the economies in the region need to work together to build an Asia-Pacific partnership of mutual trust, inclusiveness, cooperation and win-win progress, and this will inject new energy into the economic development of both the Asia-Pacific and the world.
On Nov. 11, 2014, President Xi Jinping delivered an opening remarks at the 22nd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Beijing.
8. FTAAP will deliver gains to all economies on both sides of the Pacific
We have decided to start and advance the process of the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP) and approved the Roadmap for APECs Contribution to the Realization of an FTAAP. This is a substantive move we have made towards the FTAAP. It marks the official launch of the FTAAP process and demonstrates the confidence of APEC members in promoting regional economic integration and their commitment. It will take regional economic integration to a new level, deliver gains to all economies on both sides of the Pacific and inject new impetus to the economic growth of the Asia-Pacific and common development of APEC members.
On Nov. 11, 2014, President Xi Jinping delivered a Closing Remarks at the 22nd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting.
9. The Asia-Pacific remains the locomotive of the world economy
The Asia-Pacific is a mirror of the world. Against the backdrop of sluggish recovery, weak demand and divergence in the world economy, Asia-Pacific economies are also confronted with such challenges as shaky foundation for growth, transition from old to new drivers and incomplete structural adjustment. That said, the Asia-Pacific remains the locomotive of the world economy. We should proceed from the reality, look into the future, and make full use of the important platform of APEC to advance win-win cooperation, thus enabling the Asia-Pacific to continue to be the engine of global growth.
On Nov. 19, 2015, President Xi Jinping remarked at Session One of the 23rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Manila, Philippines.
10. To have an ambitious program and aim to fulfill its grand vision
We should improve the strategic framework for medium- to long-term cooperation in the Asia-Pacific with the eyes on the future. A great thinker in ancient China said, "Without a clear vision, nothing can be accomplished." Just like a person must have a dream, cooperation must have a direction. Asia-Pacific cooperation should be forward-looking to shape the future. It should have an ambitious program and aim to fulfill its grand vision.
We should continue to carry out strategic, forward-looking and progressive cooperation, and identify the goals, measures and timetables of cooperation in priority areas.
On Nov. 19, 2015, President Xi Jinping remarked at Session One of the 23rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Manila, Philippines.
Taking the lead, Mamata Banerjee even dialed her fiercest adversaries to build the anti-demonitisation coalition. But CPM clearly has not fallen for the bait.
The Bihar chief minister and Sharad Pawar were the two politicians who were quick to back Prime Minister's call on demonitisation. Both have prime ministerial ambitions. And both, after the initial response, have maintained a studied silence.
: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's clarion call seeking to forge a larger opposition unity against the midnight demonitisation has evoked tepid response thus far.Ahead of the winter session beginning Wednesday, Banerjee would be in the national capital for a march by opposition MPs to Rashtrapati Bhawan.Had CPM accepted, the party would have whittled its statues to that of the B-Team of the TMC. Instead, party general secretary raked up the "sharada-narada" scams in the TMC bastion to allege what CPM calls TMC-BJP understanding.The Left wants that the issue be first debated in Parliament before knocking on the doors of the Rashtrapati Bhawan.On the other hand, the Grand Old Party(GOP) has its own issues. The Congress and its Vice-President Rahul Gandhi have been unequivocal in their criticism of the implementation of the decision.But the fact of the matter is that GOP remains the principal opposition party in both houses of parliament. Why would it want to concede that space to the chief minister of a province?So quite cleverly Congress on Tuesday skirted all questions on a joint March to President Mukherjee."It's an issue which will be decided by the CPP, the Congress parliamentary party" said party spokesperson Randeep Surjewala.Now we come to Nitish Kumar.No politician can question government's intent of fighting black money. The proof of the pudding is in the eating. Both Pawar and Nitish are patiently waiting and watching from the sidelines. They have no elections lined up in the near future.But in UP, Mayawati and Mulayam have no such luxury. Elections are round the corner and the two regional parties have to take a stand. Both regional satraps waited for the full 36 hours to gauge the impact of the announcement. And then decided to pounce back.It especially suits Mayawati to make this election a poor vs rich contest. For both SP and BSP, Mamata's proposal has no meaning.Second, why would a Mulayam or a Mayawati concede the leadership position to Mamata at this point in time.That leaves us with Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal. He, of course, would be meeting the West Bengal CM on the eve of the beginning of the session.Having already sought an appointment with the President, TMC, however, is trying to get token representation from all non-NDA parties.On Wednesday, floor leaders of these parties in Parliament will meet again to find a middle path.
The PM will keep cracking down against rich with unaccounted cash to reward the poor, a top government source told CNN-News18.
The massive midnight demonetisation drive that Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced last Thursday will soon be followed up with a heavy crackdown on benami transactions in a series of radical measures the government has lined up to rein in unaccounted money.Top sources in the government told CNN-News18 that the crackdown on benami property will be launched early next year while a massive scheme to empower rural poor facing distress was on the drawing board.The mega rural package the contours of which are not yet clear could be timed politically so that the electorate has a big reason to cheer before the 2019 general elections.Also on the anvil is a grand infrastructure push that the government expects will put the economy back on the fast track.There is no question of succumbing to any political pressure either from allies or from the Opposition, the source said when asked about potential political hurdles.The BJP, CNN-News18 learns, has decided to brazen it out and a decision has been taken to ignore short-term political opposition.Also Read: PM Modi Praises Nehru in Poll-bound UP, Rips Into Congress for Failing Him The shape of things to come on the political front was amply made clear at the BJP parliamentary party meet on Monday when Union Minister of Urban Development, Housing and Urban Poverty Venkaiah Naidu said the mood of the nation was in favour of the decision taken by PM Modi to scrap Rs 500 and 1000 currency notes.Naidu said there were enough indications about the impending move to demonetise, like, the constitution of SIT on black money, avoidance of double tax treaty, prohibition of benami transaction bill, et all.Speaking at the meeting, PM Modi had said that the country is with the government.
Seven Pakistani soldiers killed by Indian shelling - Pakistan military https://t.co/UFuPbrF2Ii Reuters India (@ReutersIndia) November 14, 2016
At least seven Pakistani soldiers were killed by Indian shelling across the frontier in Kashmir region on Sunday night, Pakistani's military said on Monday.The military media wing, Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), said in a statement that the seven soldiers were killed in the Bhimber sector on the "Line of Control" in Kashmir."7 soldiers embraced shahadat at LOC in Bhimber sector in cross fire," extract from ISPR's statement read.Relations between the two nuclear armed neighbors have been strained for several months, while cross-frontier shelling has intensified in recent weeks.Meanwhile, Pakistan summons Indian High Commissioner Gautam Bambawale to the Foreign Office.More details awaited.
: Starting from real estate business to weddings the Narendra Modi-led NDA government's demonetisation drive has cast its shadow on almost everything in the country.While opposition parties including SP, BSP, Congress and Trinamool Congress attack the government's sudden decision to abolish Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes as it will cause problems to common man, BJP chief Amit Shah terms it a move which will immensely help in tackling corruption.Let's have a look at the side effects of the demonetisation drive:- Demonetised Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes were found floating in the Ganga river in Mirzapur (UP). Torn notes of Rs 500, Rs 1000 found near garbage dump in Kolkata. In Guwahatis Rukmini Nagar, torn currency notes were found in drains.- Robbers snatched Rs 1,500 from a labourer in Greater Noida but returned the money after discovering the snatched currency were demonetised notes.- In Delhi, shopkeepers and auto-rickshaw drivers are turning to beggars to exchange demonitised notes.- In Tiruvannamalai (Tamil Nadu) a man used colour photocopy of Rs 2,000 note to buy booze from TASMAC outlet. The outlet employee later said since he hasnt seen Rs 2,000 note before, he accepted it believing it was genuine.- Frustrated by the demonetisation move, kidnappers in Varanasi on Sunday released a 9th standard boy who was abducted on November 8. Parents of the victim thanked PM Modi.- Police have seized unaccounted cash worth Rs 4 crore in now-defunct Rs 1,000 denomination notes from a Maharashtra-based trader at a checkpost in Burhanpur district in Madhya Pradesh.- Vinayka Hospital and Research Centre, a private hospital in Ranchi treated patients for free between 10-13 November.- A sweeper in Pune found a stash of Rs 1,000 notes in garbage and handed it over to the police.- Demonetisation has come down hard on dowry seekers. According to a report a grooms family in Bihar sought Rs 20 lakh dowry from brides parents. Now, demonetisation drive has dissolved bridegroom's family demand.- Violence and stone pelting incidents in Kashmir Valley have come to a dwindling halt post demonitisation.- Demonetisation has become a party pooper in Delhi-NCR as cash-based alcohol sales in bars, pubs and ahatas have been going down since the announcement.- In Tarapur (Gujarat), a 47-year-old farmer died of heart attack while standing in a queue outside a bank to exchange demonetised notes.- A 65-year-old man collapsed after he was made to stand in a long queue to exchange now-defunct notes in Makronia (Madhya Pradesh).- In Govandi (Mumbai), a newborn died allegedly after his parents attempted to deposit now discarded cash in the hospital and the hospital refused to accept the same.- A 96-year-old man died in Udupi (Karnataka) while waiting in a queue at a bank in Ajekar, due to a spike in blood pressure.- An elderly woman, who had gone to a bank to exchange two Rs 1,000 notes, allegedly died of shock outside the bank in Kushinagar district (Uttar Pradesh).- A woman in Telangana committed suicide because she thought all her money had become valueless post demonitsation.- A woman in Meerut reportedly had to mortgage her jewellery as hospital refused to hand over her dead husbands body because of change.- A 69-year-old man died in Madhya Pradesh's Sagar town after suffering a heart attack while standing in a queue to exchange demonetised currency notes outside a bank.
Worried over immediate impact of demonetisation, trade and industry bodies have come out with a host of suggestions, including payment of advance salaries in new currency notes and hiring of retired bank officials to deal with the prevailing cash crunch.In a representation submitted to Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, PHD Chamber of Commerce suggested payment or part payment of salaries in advance in cash to government, and public and private sector employees with new Rs 500 notes."This suggestion would avoid overflowing queues and hardship being faced by most of the citizens and would also avoid loss of productivity due to employee absenteeism in organisations," the chamber said.Industry body ASSOCHAM suggested that banks should hire retired employees on a massive scale for a speedy currency swap and cash withdrawal in the wake of junking of big denomination currency notes."Just like general elections when staff across different departments is mobilised; different types of staff can be used for helping the over-stretched banks, grappling with the huge task of dealing with the demonetised currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 and dispensing the new notes," it said in an appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.Traders body CAIT said that post demonetisation trade across the country has reduced to 25 per cent in comparison to normal days.It called upon Jaitley for "remedial" measures to intensify adoption of electronic payments beside ensuring smooth flow of currency both t the hands of traders and consumers.Sapan Gupta, Partner, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas and Co said demonetisation of old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes is no doubt a visionary move but its impact is directly proportionate to the manner in which the transition is executed."The government will need to ensure the necessary infrastructure is put in place at the earliest possible to really achieve its targets," he said.
San Francisco: A veteran history teacher in the US has been suspended for comparing President-elect Donald Trump to Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler during a post-election lesson.
Frank Navarro, 65, a history and special education teacher at Mountain View High School, Bay Area, California, was asked to leave during school hours after the administration received an email from a parent concerned about statements he made in the class.
Navarro, who has taught at the school for 40 years and is an expert on the Holocaust, said school officials declined to read him the email and also declined his request to review the lesson plan with him.
Mountain View/Los Altos High School District Superintendent Jeff Harding confirmed the incident which took place last Thursday but declined to describe the parent's complaints, The Mercury News reported.
"This feels like we're trying to squash free speech," Navarro was quoted as saying.
"Everything I talk about is factually based. They can go and check it out. It's not propaganda or bias if it's based on hard facts," he said.
Though Navarro said school officials, who had put him on paid leave, originally told him to return on Wednesday, Harding said he could return earlier.
"I had a short lesson paralleling Hitler with Trump when Hitler was running from 1930 to 1933," Navarro told the New York Daily News.
"Hitler said he would make Germany great again, and Trump said he would make America great again," Navarro said. He also noted that both leaders vowed to deport foreigners.
Tensions have run high throughout the Bay Area after Trump's victory, with many protesting in the streets and hundreds of students staging walkouts.
The Oracle, Mountain View High's independent student newspaper, said some of Navarro's students alleged his lessons were one-sided and that Navarro said things about Trump that his supporters would find offensive. Other students defended Navarro.
A change.org petition calling for his return had garnered more than 1,200 signatures.
Navarro, who is Mexican-American and was raised in Oakland, said he is concerned for many of his students during this political climate.
"I've had Mexican kids come and say, 'Hey, Mr. Navarro, I might be deported,'" he said. "Is it better to see bigotry and say nothing? That's what the principal was telling me (during our conversation). In my silence, I would be substantiating the bigotry."
This cant be implemented in 50 days, he said, adding that the crisis was severe for rural women. We support the PM, but this (the demonetisation) needs to be implemented better. People shouldnt face problem in getting their own money, he said.
After Shiv Sena, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has become the second constituent of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance to criticise the demonetisation drive of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.SAD leader and Punjab deputy chief minister Sukhbir Badal told CNN-News18 that the present crackdown on black money was unworkable and the cash shortage was putting people through a lot of pain in the marriage season.Badal felt that the daily withdrawal limit of Rs 4,000 or 4,500 was not workable and need to be increased. He also suggested the Centre should think in terms of bringing in cooperative banks to resolve the crisis.Earlier, the Sena had slammed the demonetisation drive saying it was not in public interest. The ruling dispensation should have done surgical strikes on the black money deposited in all Swiss accounts instead of scrapping Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said.
: The concluding day of 'Prerna Shibir', organised by the Rashtra Swayamsevak Sangh's womens wing Rashtriya Sevika Samiti, was dominated by praises of the Indian joint family and critique of "western feminist countries".Samiti members told News 18 that they believe a woman has many responsibilities both as a citizen and as a mother or wife. The idea of a blissful life is not confrontation with men in the family, but its all about co-existence. There is no question of opposing, man and woman work together for nation building. We dont believe in anything that will break the family, one of them said.The three-day event was organised here by the organisation to celebrate its 80th anniversary.Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan presided over the session, "Rashtra Mahila Vichar Sangoshthi", which focused on the "Role of family in nation building" (Rashtra ke vikas me parivar ki bhoomika).Rajasthan Finance Commission chairperson, Jyoti Kiran Shukla, was one of the main speakers. Dr Uma Vaidya, Pro-Vice Chancellor Kalidas Vishwa Vidyalaya, Nagpur and Meena Chandavark, former pro-vice chancellor Mahila Vishwa Vidyalaya, Vijaypur, also spoke at the event.Shukla questioned "accusations of male dominated society" and eulogized the Indian family system that contributes in the economic growth of the country. The feminist rate of growth is 2% while the Familist rate of growth is 7%. Household saving rate in India is 11% and US 5% (sic)," she said.She emphasized the importance of family system, saying, The feminist countries in Europe, UK and USA ignore the importance of a united family in ascertaining economic development of the country.""There is an Indian model of making choices, which has both tangible and intangible elements. In Bharat we talk about sacrifice, but this is not known to West, they dont know about sacrifice and sneh. Instead their idea of development is about Guns and Butter, she said.Shukla said the Wests model makes a nation choose between two options - guns (invest in defense/military) or butter (invest in production of goods) - or a combination of both while spending its finite resources. They don't even have the family element in their growth model, she said.Seetha Annadanam, general secretary of the Samiti, told News 18 that there is no male domination in Sangh. "It is an outfit for men and samiti for us, and we do the same work independently.We give training to women on how to demonstrate the inner power in society. There are other views on woman empowerment as well but that thinking is very limited, they only talk about adhikar, rights and equality but we also talk about kartavya. Women are doing well in profession because they are duty minded," she said.
Pandit Nehru, your family members abuse me, your party abuses me but I am here to fulfil what was left incomplete from your time. I have come here on November 14 deliberately to expose those who did not work towards fulfilling what Pandit Nehru had wanted to do, he said, addressing public in Ghazipur in the Purvanchal area of poll-bound Uttar Pradesh.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi showered praises on Jawaharlal Nehru on his 127th birth anniversary and slammed his political successors for not living up to his legacy.Modi recalled that in 1962, the MP from Ghazipur told Nehru about the dire state of poor in Purvanchal. Then Panditji formed a committee. After Pandit Nehru passed away, many PMs came and went but that committee report is still lost among files. Today, on Panditjis birthday I pledge to reopen those files, which his party and family PMs never did, said Modi, adding that would be his tribute to Indias first prime minister on his anniversary.The Congress party whose leadership has been firmly in the hands of the Nehru-Gandhi family ever since Jawaharlal Nehrus term as the prime minister has often accused Modi of trying to erase the legacy of Nehru from India politics and public life.The RSS, ideological mothership of the BJP, has never minced words in criticizing Nehru for leading India down a socialistic path with adopted values from Western countries at the cost of Indian traditional values.Modis praise for Nehru is being seen as a clever political move to separate Nehru from his political opponents, the Nehru-Gandhis.
Baghdad: Suicide bombings claimed by the Islamic State group killed 15 people today in an oasis town south of Baghdad and the city of Fallujah to its west, officials said.
The attacks come as Iraqi forces battle IS in the northern city of Mosul, the last major population centre the jihadists hold in the country.
IS has carried out a series of attacks in other areas since the operation to retake Mosul was launched on October 17 in an apparent bid to draw attention and possibly troops away from the city.
Masum al-Tamimi, a member of the Karbala provincial council, said six suicide bombers armed with light weapons as well as explosives tried to infiltrate Ain al-Tamer early today.
But they clashed with security forces before withdrawing to the Al-Jihad area and detonating explosives there, Tamimi said, putting the death toll at eight, a figure confirmed by a doctor.
The attack also wounded at least six people, officials said.
The interior ministry said security forces killed five of the bombers while the sixth detonated explosives inside a house.
But IS issued a statement claiming the attack in which it said that there were only five bombers, identified with noms de guerre indicating two were from Mosul and three from Syria.
The jihadist group said the bombers, who were armed with automatic weapons and grenades as well as explosive belts, battled security forces until running out of ammunition and then blew themselves up.
Attacks in southern Iraq are rare, especially compared to the frequent bombings that hit Baghdad. But Ain al-Tamer, which is located 50 kilometres (30 miles) from the Shiite shrine city of Karbala, is on the edge of Anbar province, which has long been a haven for jihadists.
A similar attack involving militants armed with explosives, rifles and grenades hit Ain al-Tamer in late August, killing 18 people and wounding at least 26.
Later in the day, two more bombers detonated explosives-rigged vehicles near police checkpoints in Fallujah, killing seven people and wounding 25, a police captain and a hospital official said.
IS also claimed responsibility for the bombings in Fallujah, a city that was retaken from IS at the end of June after two and a half years outside of government control.
"These two explosions are the first two explosions in Fallujah since its liberation from (IS)," Raja Barakat, a member of the provincial council security committee in Anbar province, where Fallujah is located.
The jihadist group overran large areas north and west of Baghdad in 2014, but Iraqi forces backed by US-led air strikes have since regained much of the territory they lost to IS two years ago.
AIIB President Jin Liqun, file photo.
The president of the young Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), Mr. Liqun Jin, is an exciting personality with sure words and mastery of the details of his office and firm.
The former top chief of the World Bank exudes firmness in his grasp of what the bank is and targets. It was a delight interviewing him at the AIIB headquarters in Beijing last week weekend. The bank was created last year mainly at the behest of China on Christmas Day and commenced operation on January 17 this year. Apart from the founding member states, new members have joined including Canada that came in September after China hosted the G20 Summit. Egypt and South Africa are the only two African countries currently in the AIIB.
"The letter A in AIIB can stand for Asia, Africa or America"
He hinted that irrespective of the phobia for the AIIB by the US at its inception, the possibility of the country joining the bank when the president-elect, Donald Trump, is in power cannot be ruled out.
He said: I have heard a certain senior official of the President Barack Obama speak good of the AIIB and after Donald Trump won, I was told that many in his team have an opinion that Obama was not right not to join the AIIB, especially after Canada joined, which was a very loud endorsement of the bank. So we cant rule out the new government in US endorsing the AIIB or indicating interest to join as member.
Canadas membership became the 22nd non-Asian state member among the present 57 members. However, the test of the banks popularity that started with a capital base of $100b, some 50% of that of the World Bank, is the line-up of close to 20 new countries intending to be part of the bank and most of them from outside Asia. At least, five of the new applicants are African countries. The Bank in October appointed Nigerian renowned economist, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala an adviser among nine others from all over the world.
The president restated the banks willing to welcome new members as the old members with higher shareholding would drop more of their stakes to allow the new members have some shares, but after the next batch of members are admitted, Jin said there would hardly be any shares left for more countries to join. Very soon, the curtain would be drawn on the shortlist of the new members whose membership will take effect from January next year.
But the bank chief wants more African countries to join as he assured that the objectives of the AIIB includes assisting in the development of the smaller economies of the world no matter where located. To underscore the openness and overrule the phobia for it by US, Jin joked that the letter A in AIIB can stand for Asia, Africa or America. They all start with and that means the bank is for all of them.
Our major consideration in extending facilities to governments or state members is whether such projects the fund would be used for will in any benefit of Asia and assist in bettering Asian economy and also that of the borrowing country. But we have a duty and obligation to ensure that we dont give impossible conditions to enable them utilize the funding and incentives of the bank. Every member state borrowing right is based not on the GDP but on shareholding and China has highest shareholding with 30% of the total volume. Right now, China is like a non-borrowing state member because if it does, it might crowd out other members that somehow need the fund more. But for the qualified borrower, the major plank for consent is on need and importance and not on shareholding capacity only. That implies that if a state needs to borrow and the AIIB is convinced that the need is compelling and there is prospect for profit in the targeted project the funding will be used for, the request would be granted as long as there is the collateral especially that of the economic potential of the project.
AIIB funding of project is predicated on factors like the sustainability, the environmental friendliness which implies how the project would not cause a serious imbalance in environmental protection. But in situations where the importance would impact and encourage development and fight poverty, the environmental impact factor might be played down provided it is not so weighty to create another big problem. The last factor is the social acceptability - implying that the people of the community the project is to be sited must be ok with it and it must target to improve on their livelihood.
AIIB structure, projects and funding must be lean, clean and green. By these I mean that the membership must be manageable and not too bogus, and we believe that the more the better. The project funding must be clean and that means there must be no form of corruption in the process leading to the funding and in the execution. It has to be clean to the extent of encouraging a clean and non-polluted environment. As I said earlier, on this we also consider the benefits when the environmental impact is bearable. For instance, in the USA today, most of the states, or almost all the so-called Red States still rely on coal power station for electricity and it is not foreseeable in the next 30 years that fossil fuel would be done away with because of the carbon emission. What is steadily done is ensuring its effect is minimized. So in a place we find that coal power plant for instance is needed as the only way the people would be assured of power supply enough to encourage economic growth, we will find a way of minimizing the emission effect and go ahead with the project to strike a balance.
US initial fear
Jin admitted that: At the formation of the AIIB, the US, the base of the Bretton Wood Institutes that manage the world economy including the World Bank and the IMF, saw the new body as a threat to its dominance and importance in the world economic order. They raised issues on whether the banks functions would be consistent with fundamental human and environmental rights of the borrowers or state members. We did our best to convince them that we were no threat or rivals or either naive as not to know the basic rules of operations. And moreover, we believe there is enough space in the global economic theatre for several bodies to operate, and many regional development banks operate side by side the World Bank and there is no reason the AIIB would be the violator. We rather need to work with and benefit each other to create a better world.
For instance, Asia alone needs as much as $1tr infrastructure funding every year and the World Bank hasnt such pool of money to pick the bills therefore the need for an alternative. Moreover, if the AIIB exists just like the World Bank, there is no time the new body would embark on a project of building a power plant, airports, roads or seaport to boost the economy of any country that the World Bank will still vote funds for the same project. So if the AIIB handles one project and the World Bank takes another that is a lot better for the world towards defeating poverty and hardship.
On the management of the bank, the president stated that right now, the AIIB operates a lean workforce of about 90 workers and operates solely from the head office in Beijing as a strategy to save cost and may continue that way for a long time. He however hinted that with time as the need arises, the bank may operate little outlet offices just to handle needs as it would stick to the rule of cost effective management.
To make its operations adapt to global best practice standards, he said the AIIB adopts universal procurement approach to get the best manpower and equipment and also recruits experts from everywhere in the world based on their competence irrespective of whether the country of origin of such expert is a member of the AIIB or not. That way, it is sure to harness the best hands to run its operations.
New York: Anti-Donald Trump protests continued for the fifth day across the US opposing the Republican's shocking victory in last week's presidential election.
In Manhattan, a group gathered on Sunday to demonstrate against the President-elect's immigration policies, CNN reported.
"The main purpose is to tell Donald Trump he can't just deport 11 million undocumented people," a protestor said.
"They're here to stay and we stand in solidarity with them."
In Los Angeles, around 100 people peacefully protested in front of the CNN building.
A small protest also took place Sunday afternoon in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Sunday was the fifth day of protests since Trump won against Democrat Hillary Clinton in the November 8 Presidential Election.
Protesters are upset about Trump's policies on the environment; lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer (LGBTQ) rights; immigration and other issues.
Some are also questioning the legitimacy of Trump's victory by noting that although he took the Electoral College, Clinton won the popular vote.
On Saturday, 8,000 people took to the streets in Los Angeles. The march was peaceful, unlike a Friday night protest by 1,000 people that resulted in the arrests of 187 adults and eight juveniles, Los Angeles police said.
Violence also flared again Saturday night in Portland, Oregon. Seventy-one people were arrested, mostly on charges of disorderly conduct and interfering with a police officer, CNN reported.
In New York, thousands of people marched in Saturday and gathered outside Trump Tower, the President-elect's home in Manhattan, where they chanted and proclaimed that he was "not my President".
Dhaka: Muslim-majority Bangladesh will drop Islam as the country's state religion "when the time comes", a media report on Monday quoted a senior ruling Awami Leage leader as saying.
"Islam has been kept as the state religion for strategic reasons," the party's Presidium Member and former minister Abdur Razzaq told a roundtable here on Sunday.
"I have said it abroad and now I am saying it again that Islam will be dropped (as state religion) from Bangladesh's Constitution when the time comes," the former food minister was quoted as saying by BDNews24.com.
The ruling party leader made the statement while speaking about Bangladesh's secular tradition at the roundtable organised by SAARC Cultural Society at the national Press Club.
Politicians and journalists from India also took part in the discussion titled 'Strong Unity of Masses of Bangladesh and India to Prevent Terrorism', held with the recent attacks on Hindus in Brahmanbarhia in the backdrop.
Indian participants included Congress leader Preetam Ghosh, social worker Ajoy Kumar Dutta and Bharatiya Janata Party leader Shiladitya Dev.
Highlighting secularism Mr Razzaq said: "The force of secularism is in the people of Bangladesh. There is nothing called 'minority' in our country."
Secularism was included in the Constitution as one of the four basic principles when it was written in 1972 as people from all religions joined the struggle for independence and snatched it from Pakistan.
After the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975, Bangladesh's course of direction was reversed, and Zia-ur- Rahman, capturing the power, replaced 'secularism' with 'Absolute trust and faith in the Almighty Allah'.
Another military dictator, HM Ershad, later included Islam as the state religion in the Constitution.
After Mr Ershad's ouster, the demand to drop Islam as state religion from the Constitution was raised several times, but even Awami League, the party that led the struggle for independence, has not made the change.
Through the 15th Amendment to the Constitution in 2011, the four basic principles of the 1972 Constitution - nationalism, socialism, democracy and secularism - were restored, but Islam remained the state religion.
The Awami League leader's comment came at a time when there are protests on the street against the attacks on Hindus and tribal Santal minorities in Bangladesh. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday said as a Muslim majority country it is the moral responsibility of the Bangladeshi citizens to take care of minorities.
"Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony which should be maintained at any cost for development and brighten the country's image," Ms Hasina said at a video conference. "As a Muslim majority country it is the moral responsibility of all of us to take care of the minorities," she said.
The prime minister added: "You have to remain careful so that no such incidents, which are taking place sporadically in different parts of the country, take place anywhere in the country."
London: Swedish officials on Monday questioned WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, who has been holed up in the Ecuadorean embassy in London for over four years, over sexual assault charges.
The 45-year-old Australian national has been living in the embassy for more than four years after he was granted political asylum by Ecuador amid fears he will be extradited to the US and questioned over the release of 500,000 secret military files on the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq by his controversial website.
Ecuadorean foreign minister Guillaume Long said, "This is something that Ecuador has been inviting the Swedish prosecutors to do ever since we granted asylum to Mr Assange in 2012."
"There was no need for the Swedish authorities to delay for over 1,000 days before agreeing to carry out this interview, given that the Swedish authorities regularly question people in Britain and received permission to do so on more than 40 occasions in recent years," he said.
After years of stalemate, representatives from the Swedish prosecutor's office and Swedish police officers agreed to be present while Assange is questioned by an Ecuadorian official based on a previously approved set of questions. A DNA sample will also be taken from Assange if he gives his consent.
The results of the interview will be transcribed and reported from Ecuador to the Swedish prosecutors in a written statement.
After this report, the prosecutors will take a view on the continuation of the investigation. Swedish chief prosecutor Ingrid Isgren was photographed entering the embassy but it was made clear that she would not be giving any press interviews during her stay in London.
Astatement on behalf of the Swedish prosecutors said: "As the investigation is ongoing, it is subject to confidentiality. This confidentiality also applies according to Ecuadorean legislation for the investigative measures conducted at the embassy. Therefore, the prosecutors cannot provide information concerning details of the investigation after the interview".
Today's interview at the embassy follows a long-drawn legal and diplomatic wrangle between Ecuador and Sweden before prosecutors consented to interview Assange in London, and then until the two sides agreed arrangements. Assange denies Sweden's allegation of rape dating back over six years.
The Swedes will be allowed to ask for clarification of Assange's responses during the questioning, but not put any fresh questions
Over dozen of religiously devout Shia militants from Pakistan and Afghanistan, three Iranian Revolutionary Guard officers and dozens of Iranian militiamen have died in recent clashes in Syria's northwestern Aleppo province, according to media reports from the region.
Hadi Zahid, a commander of the elite Iranian Revolutionary Guards Quds Force, Zaikr Hussein of the Special Units and Mohamm Ali Mohammed Hosseini, a commander of the Commandos Unit were killed in the recent Aleppo clashes, reported al-Arabiya satellite TV.
The new casualties follow the killing of Iran's state television reporter, Mohsin Khozaia in Aleppo on Saturday, al-Arabiya said. Khozaia been criticized for inciting sectarianism in his journalism.
Meanwhile, rebels in the neighbouring Syrian province of Idlib released a video showing an attack targeting a group of Iranian militias with a thermal rocket killing and injuring scores of them.
More than 3,000 members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards forces have been killed in Syria, according to Iranian Farsi language media outlets.
As a prelude to tonights community forum on the school-to-prison pipeline at the Lynchburg Public Library, a representative of the Lynchburg chapter of the nonprofit Virginia Organizing spoke to a small gathering Sunday morning at downtown Lynchburgs Unitarian House.
Virginia Organizing, which opened its first chapter in Lee County in 1995, helps residents organize around social justice issues to create small incremental changes that can make big impacts.
Haley Wilson, the Lynchburg organizer for Virginia Organizing, said the city had a small chapter about 10 or 12 years ago that notched several victories, including having racist murals removed or painted over in City Hall and getting Lynchburg City Schools 365-day suspension policy, which removed students from school for a year, changed.
Wilson said the new Lynchburg chapter recently helped motivate Amherst County supervisors to change the wording of a county ordinance that previously could have been used to keep felons and businesses from getting or keeping business licenses.
We do concrete work that leads to systemic change, Wilson told an audience of about 20.
While people may be used to being activists they may not be used to being organizers, which is where the nonprofit fits in, she said.
The main difference is creating a strategy and creating concrete small steps to take to create systemic changes, Wilson said in explaining how the nonprofit works in its eight state chapters.
Because of school discipline concerns and race issues, Wilson said Virginia Organizings Lynchburg chapter is focused on race and the school-to-prison pipeline.
Wilson said the term school-to-prison pipeline refers to children being put in handcuffs, taken to jail and put into the criminal system for a non-criminal behavior, as well as to repeated suspensions that remove children from school leading them to fall behind, being less likely to graduate and more likely to end up with a criminal record in the future.
Research by the chapter found that, after Richmond, Lynchburg is the worst city in the state for percentage differences of white kids and black kids who get suspended, Wilson said.
So, if you are a white kid you have a 4.6 percent chance of getting a short-term suspension in Lynchburg. If you are a black kid you have a 20.5 percent chance of getting suspended here, Wilson said. And that doesnt mean, we are not saying, teachers are racist and therefore suspending black kids more. But were saying theres a systemic problem there; something is happening there thats not just one teacher giving more suspensions, one school or one age group. Theres something going on there. And we dont know what that is yet and we dont know how to fix it yet, but we are working to figure that out.
The first step is to find those directly affected, which is the purpose of tonights 6 p.m. meeting in the Lynchburg Public Librarys main library community meeting room.
Titled Stop the school-to-prison pipeline, the public forum will provide an opportunity for Virginia Organizing to discuss the different meanings of the term and then hear directly from residents about what they have experienced and how it is impacting their lives and the lives of those around them.
The Fredericksburg and Portsmouth chapters of Virginia Organizing are also taking up the issue with Portsmouth focused on students being removed from schools in handcuffs and being taken to jail while Fredericksburg focused on the role of school resource officers, Wilson said.
In Lynchburg, Wilson said, children more frequently fall victim to repeated suspensions.
Wilson said although school officials are aware of todays gathering they have not been formally invited. The event is intended to be a safe place for families to come and discuss what they are going through and then, if they choose, become part of the effort to create change.
Another great outcome could be that there are people seeing that this isnt just happening to their kid, that their kid just isnt bad, and that this is happening to a lot of people, which I think can be really empowering. I think theres a lot of shame involved here with if your kid gets suspended a lot, leading parents to question their parenting, she said.
Wilson said any school representatives who choose to attend will be provided the same time to speak as others. In coming months additional public forums will have space specifically for school officials, said Wilson, adding she believes there are educators, officials and school board members who see this as an issue and also want to fix it.
But first Virginia Organizing wants to hear from residents who can help the nonprofit determine what it can hold the division accountable for and determine specifically what incremental systemic changes we want to create, Wilson said.
Sundays talk led to a brief discussion about issues surrounding cultural competency training, implicit bias and school resource officers.
Steve Griffis, a Campbell County teacher, said he and other teachers go through cultural training and, in his experience, school resource officers are not the most experienced police officers on the force. He said the cultural training helps teachers understand why a student of one culture will not look a teacher in the eye while another will.
Depending on the teachers culture, the behavior could be seen as a sign of defiance, disruptiveness or disrespect. Griffis said a teacher who has training knows every culture defines those words and the behaviors differently.
Wilson cautioned people against putting value judgments on student behaviors and, when asked about the role of students home lives, she cautioned them against removing the blame from the school system.
Wilson said the campaign is not to blame any individual teacher or teachers as a whole or anyone, but its to highlight the fact that I know for sure students of color are not 15 percent worse than white kids. I know theyre not, so theres something going wrong in this process that were making 15 percent [more] students of color get suspended or are highlighting those wrong behaviors 15 percent more of the time.
While there is no quick fix for the problem, Wilson said, There are incremental systemic changes that we can make that will be on the books so that if someone crosses that line again we can hold them accountable or prosecute them.
For his part, Griffis said hes going to continue to pursue change through his own students.
I think there is a solution and I know it sounds trite but I think there is a solution to this and its just being taught to love and respect each other despite differences and I think we can teach that and we can start teaching it to kids and I think we do try to teach it to kids, Griffis said.
I have hope the future will be better than us.
BOONES MILL Franklin Countys moonshine heritage, once discussed privately in hushed tones, soon will be proudly on display in the small town that serves as the entrance to the county.
Franklin County Distilleries, which has a small production facility in Boones Mill, is working toward opening a tasting room off U.S. 220 and backing up to Maggodee Creek.
Christopher Reynolds, brand ambassador for Franklin County Distilleries, said the plan is to align the tasting rooms opening with an April race at Martinsville Speedway.
The company wants to root itself in the Franklin County community its named for, and a tasting room is one way to do that, Reynolds said.
The tasting room will bring people, and their money, into the community. Reynolds said he believes it has tourism value, and would be a good way to bring young folks from Roanoke into the town or get visitors to Smith Mountain Lake to explore other parts of the county.
Though its based in Boones Mill, the distillery is looking to expand outside of the town as well. Reynolds said company officials are talking about establishing some kind of relationship with the Harvester Performance Center in Rocky Mount and are also developing a signature drink for the Hotel Roanoke. He said theyd be interested in opening a tasting room in Roanoke at some point too.
Right now, the company uses just one still and makes only one product, the White Label Corn Whiskey. But Reynolds said demand is high, and theyll need to grow adding more stills and more products to meet it. The product is only available in Virginia, but Reynolds said that will change soon.
Were already expanding way faster than we thought we would with this product, Reynolds said. I cant sign distribution deals for sure this week because I have to make sure we have enough liquor made.
The company is in talks with officials from Boones Mill about renting space in a two-story industrial building undergoing renovations located on property owned by the town. Town Manager Matt Lawless said the renovations should be completed in April.
Though a lease hasnt been signed yet, Lawless said the distillery is a top prospect for the building.
He said the distillery and Titan Trains, a manufacturer of 1/8 scale trains that is also set to go into the building, both play on the towns history, making them ideal tenants.
When we think about the kind of manufacturing that can work here, you want to have a niche product that holds value well and can be exported more widely. And so Franklin County Distilleries and Titan Trains both fit that bill, Lawless said.
The company is blowing through the inventory, Lawless said, so it will need more space soon. The town could provide it to them by next spring.
The timing might work out real well for us, Lawless said.
Chinese President Xi Jinping is going to pay state visits to Ecuador, Peru and Chile. China and Latin American and the Caribbean states are all developing countries in about the same development stage and face the same task of striving for development. In recent years, the relations between China and Latin American and the Caribbean countries have gained great development. President Xi made a number of comments on the relations between China and Latin America and the Caribbean, expecting the two sides to build a community of shared destiny for common progress, and create a splendid future.
1. Open and inclusive process featuring win-win cooperation
China and Latin America and the Caribbean share the same approach to development. We have found increasingly more common language whether in respective nation-building and governance or in international affairs. Facts have proven, and will continue to show, that the growth of China-Latin America relations is an open and inclusive process featuring win-win cooperation. It not only serves the common interests of the two sides, but also contributes to peace, stability and prosperity in the region and the world at large.
(May 2013, a joint written interview to the media of Trinidad and Tobago, Costa Rica and Mexico ahead of President Xi Jinpings state visits to the three countries)
2. An important window of opportunity for the development of relations
We believe that the further Latin America develops, the better it is for the world and China as well.
At present, there is an important window of opportunity for the development of relations between China and Latin America and the Caribbean. We should take a far-sighted view, keep abreast of the times, build on the traditional friendship, enhance all-dimensional exchanges, upgrade cooperation and work for fresh and greater progress in the Partnership of Comprehensive Cooperation featuring equality, mutual benefit and common development between China and Latin America and the Caribbean.
(June 5th 2013, President Xi Jinpings speech at the Senate of Mexico)
3. Set a model for South-South cooperation
China and Latin American and the Caribbean states are all developing countries in about the same development stage and face the same task of striving for development. We support each other in pursuing development paths that suit our respective national conditions and are committed to making the international order more just and equitable. These are the fundamental reasons which enable us to seek common ground while shelving differences and stand by each other's side in our joint pursuit of development.
Since the beginning of the new century, China and Latin American and the Caribbean states, focusing on the theme of common development, have deepened mutual trust in the political field, expanded cooperation in economy and trade, learned from each other in cultural and people-to-people exchanges and coordinated closely in international affairs. This has made it possible for us to make big strides in our relations and set a model for South-South cooperation.
(July 2014, President Xi Jinpings joint written interview with the major media organizations from Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela and Cuba)
4. The "Chinese Dream" and the "Latin American Dream" are closely linked
The relations between China and Latin America have witnessed a comprehensive and rapid development in the 21st century, and brought real benefits to the people of China and Latin America. It is common expectation of the two peoples to comprehensively enhance cooperative relations featuring mutual benefit between China and Latin American countries. China is willing to work jointly with Brazil and other Latin American and Caribbean countries, and to make the two sides good friends who share the same ideal and good partners who make progress together.
Unity, collaboration, development and revitalization are the dreams the Latin American people from generation to generation. The "Chinese Dream" and the "Latin American Dream" are closely linked. Both sides should take the courage to pursue the dream and jointly make the dream come true.
(July 16th 2014, President Xi Jinpings speech at the Brazilian National Congress)
5. A Five-in-One new pattern of China-Latin America relations
This afternoon belongs to China and Latin American and Caribbean relations. Chinese and Latin American leaders gathering together is a historical event of global influence.
At present, the relations between China and Latin America and the Caribbean are best ever in history and standing at a new starting point.
Here, I wish to propose that we jointly announce at this meeting the establishment of the China-Latin America comprehensive cooperative partnership of equality, mutual benefit and common development, and work together to build a Five-in-One new pattern of China-Latin America relations: sincerely trust each other in politics, cooperate with each other for a win-win outcome in economy and trade, learn from each other in people-to-people and cultural exchanges, closely cooperate with each other in international affairs, and promote each other in overall cooperation and bilateral relations.
(July 17th 2014, President Xi Jinpings keynote speech at China-Latin America and Caribbean Summit)
6. The establishment of the China-CELAC Forum send out a strong signal
The second CELAC summit held last January adopted the Special Declaration on the Establishment of the China-CELAC Forum, which has laid down an important groundwork for the establishment of the forum and advancement of our overall cooperation. Through this Summit, we will jointly announce the official establishment of the China-CELAC Forum and will hold the first ministerial conference of the Forum in Beijing at an early date. This will have profound implication for our future relationship and send out a strong signal of our commitment to strengthening unity and coordination and promoting South-South cooperation.
(July 17th 2014, President Xi Jinpings keynote speech at China-Latin America and Caribbean Summit)
7. Common dreams and shared pursuit
Currently, the Chinese people are striving to achieve the "Chinese Dream" of great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, while the peoples of Latin American and Caribbean countries are also struggling for the "Latin American Dream" of realizing solidarity, cooperation, development and revitalization. The common dreams and shared pursuit closely connect China and Latin America. Let's seize the opportunity, forge ahead, and try hard to build a hand-in-hand community of common destiny, so as to create a splendid future for China-Latin America relations!
(July 17th 2014, President Xi Jinpings keynote speech at China-Latin America and Caribbean Summit)
8. A creation in the history of China-CELAC relations
Half a year ago, I had a milestone meeting with the leaders of the Latin American and Caribbean countries in Brasilia. The two sides decided to establish the China-CELAC comprehensive cooperative partnership featuring equality, mutual benefit and common development and officially establish the China-CELAC Forum, which conforms to the trends of the times of peace, development, cooperation and win-win results, and should be called a creation in the history of China-CELAC relations.
The China-CELAC Forum is a newborn, just like a young shoot sprouting out of the earth, whose sturdy growth into a towering tree needs meticulous cultivation of both sides.
(January 8th 2015, President Xi Jinpings speech at the First Ministerial Meeting of China-CELAC Forum)
9. The overall cooperation between China and Latin America has set sail smoothly
At present, the relations between China and Latin American and the Caribbean countries are standing at a new historical point. With the establishment of China-CELAC Forum, the overall cooperation between China and Latin America has set sail smoothly. The two sides have opened a wide perspective for all-dimensional cooperation via working hand-in-hand in promoting the comprehensive cooperation partnership featuring equality, mutual benefit and common development, and jointly building China-Latin America community of shared destiny.
(October 2016, President Xi Jinpings congratulatory letter to the 10th China-LAC Business Summit)
10. A new stage of parallel development between bilateral cooperation and overall cooperation
At present, the relationship between China and Latin America has entered into a new stage of parallel development between bilateral cooperation and overall cooperation. China is willing to work together with Uruguay and other Latin American countries to jointly build a new framework of the 1+3+6 cooperation, so as to push China-Latin America relations for greater development and forge a community of shared destiny featuring joint progress together.
(October 18th 2016, President Xi Jinping held talks with President Tabare Vazquez of Uruguay)
Detect breast cancer at an early age
The appeal was made on Saturday by Melissa Roberts, general manager of Pink Hibiscus Health Specialists which held screenings at its facility at 5 Adam Smith Square, Woodbrook.
Forty five patients were diagnosed with breast cancer so far this year, seven were annual patients and one of these seven patients was twenty two years of age, Roberts told Newsday.
There is a myth which many people believe that once you are diagnosed with breast cancer you will die.
There is a 98 percent chance of survival once you detect the cancer early, Roberts assured, again stating that in order to detect the cancer at an early stage, women should not wait till they are age 40 to get a mammogram done.
Many women defer the screenings due to the fear of pain but at this clinic the screening is not painful. Jyoti Deonarine, the mammographer stated, I usually tell the patients they are coming for breast photography. This clinic being the most advanced in technology in Trinidad and Tobago uses digital mammograms as opposed to the analog (film) mammograms.
The digital mammogram is quite similar to an X-ray, not much compression is used resulting in a pain free experience.
Pink Hibiscus Health Specialists together with Yoplait hosted comprehensive breast screenings at Pink Hibiscus Clinic, last Saturday, to bring awareness to the public about the fight against breast cancer.
Both organisations held a campaign in October, which was Breast Cancer Awareness Month this year, during which information on breast cancer was disseminated and 20 women were chosen and scheduled to receive the breast screenings.
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Commentary: Xi's LatAm trip to usher in new era for bilateral ties
(Xinhua) 13:04, November 14, 2016
BEIJING, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping's upcoming visit to Latin America (LatAm) is expected to improve the all-round cooperative partnership and usher in a new era of bilateral relations.
Xi will pay state visits to Ecuador, Peru and Chile from Nov. 17 to Nov. 23, and attend the 24th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting from Nov. 19 to 20 in Lima, Peru.
This will be Xi's third visit to Latin America since he took the presidency in March 2013, and the visit to Ecuador will be the first since diplomatic relations between the two countries began in 1980.
The visit shows that China and LatAm are striving for win-win cooperation and common development under the principles of mutual trust, mutual benefit and mutual learning.
During Xi's visit, China will discuss free trade arrangements and cooperation in e-commerce, production capacity, industrial parks and infrastructure.
At present, affected by a weaker global market and the falling prices of commodities, LatAm needs capital and technology to improve its manufacturing capabilities, reduce its dependence on the export of raw materials and boost economic transformation.
As China has cost-effective equipment, and LatAm needs infrastructure and industrial upgrading, Xi's visit comes at a time when there are ample opportunities to expand the current relationship.
In fact, China-LatAm ties have been improving. Back in July 2014, Xi and leaders from the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) announced the establishment of the China-CELAC Forum. In January 2015, China and the CELAC inked a five-year cooperation plan at the first ministerial meeting of the cooperation forum in Beijing.
The cooperation forum marked a new era of mutual benefit and common development and improved bilateral cooperation in various fields.
In the political sphere, ties have been propelled forward by the exchanges of high-level visits. Peru, the first country in the LatAm region to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership with China, will be Xi's second leg of the visit. Xi's visit to Peru comes hot on the heels of Peruvian President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski's state visit to China in September, which was his first state visit since he assumed the presidency.
Such frequent high-level visits are sure to consolidate traditional friendship and pave the way for future cooperation.
Chile, the last leg of Xi's visit, has always led relations with China. It was the first South American nation to forge diplomatic ties with China, the first LatAm country that signed a bilateral accord with China on China's membership to the World Trade Organization and signed a free trade agreement with China.
In the economic and trade sector, trade volume between China and LatAm has risen more than twenty-fold during the past decade to hit 236.5 billion U.S. dollars in 2015. Currently, China is the second largest trade partner and third largest investment source country of LatAm, while LatAm is China's seventh largest trade partner.
As an emerging economy and the largest developing country in the world, China has always stood with developing countries and performed its due responsibilities commensurate with its status as a global economic power.
China provided cash support of two million dollars and humanitarian aid worth 9.2 million dollars to Ecuador after a fatal earthquake killed 668 people, injured 4,859 and displaced around 80,000 in April.
Furthermore, China provided financial and technical support to help LatAm countries bridge the infrastructure deficit.
Thanks to China's financial support, the Coca Codo Sinclair hydroelectric plant, the largest hydroelectric plant ever constructed by a Chinese company, in northeast Ecuador, is expected to generate 1,500 megawatts of energy and meet 30 percent of Ecuador's demand.
The plant, along with others built by Chinese companies, will help Ecuador transform from a power-hungry country into a clean energy exporter and greatly contribute to the country's economic development.
Within the framework of the China-CELAC Forum, cooperation has also flourished in other areas like education, people-to-people exchanges and culture.
China promised LatAm and Caribbean countries 6,000 government scholarships within five years from 2014.
In addition, various cultural activities have been run in China and LatAm to boost mutual understanding and consolidate the basis for a lasting friendship. Moreover, 2016 is the "Year of Cultural Exchanges" between China and the region.
It is believed that Xi's visit will consolidate the traditional friendship, promote common development and build a community of shared destiny between China and LatAm.
(Newser) Popular "sex and swingers community" AdultFriendFinder has been the victim of a massive hacking attack involving a total of 412 million accounts, ZDNet reports. LeakedSource, a watchdog group, disclosed the data breach, calling it the "largest hack of 2016." LeakedSource says the hack occurred in October and affected a number of adult sites owned by the Friend Finder Network, including Penthouse.com, Cams.com, stripshow.com, and iCams.com. But most of the hacked accounts (339 million) were from AdultFriendFinder. The data includes names, email addresses, and passwordsa mix of encrypted and plain text versions. Security researchers were able to unscramble 99% of the leaked passwords.
Friend Finder Network has not acknowledged the breach, but reporters at ZDNet were able to independently contact some victims, who confirmed that their details had been lifted from the site. Worryingly, the hack appears to contain information from some 15 million "deleted" accounts for which AdultFriendFinder still maintained login information. The culprit behind the attack is unknown, although the security researcher who first reported a vulnerability at the site blames Russian hackers. The number of hacked accounts is about 10 times that of those affected in an Ashley Madison hack last year, and there's no speculation at this point about how many accounts might be bogus. Friend Finder Network got hacked last year as well. (Read more hacking stories.)
(Newser) Chelsea Manning isn't going to wait and see whether WikiLeaks tries to call in a favor when Donald Trump becomes president. She has asked President Obama to reduce her sentence for leaking classified files from 35 years to the more than six she has already spent behind bars, reports the New York Times, which notes that Manning has already spent more time in prison than any other convicted leaker in US history. In a statement sent with her petition, Manning says she knows what she did is wrong and that she's not asking for a pardon. She says at the time of the leaks, she was struggling with issues including gender dysphoria.
The "sole relief I am asking for is to be released from military prison after serving six years of confinement as a person who did not intend to harm the interests of the United States or harm any service members," Manning writes. The petition was accompanied by letters from supporters, including "Pentagon Papers" whistleblower Daniel Ellsberg, who tells the Times that "we all have to ask President Obama to do with his powers good things before he leaves, before a new president comes in." On Friday, WikiLeaks tweeted: "President Obama has a political moment to pardon Manning & Snowden. If not, he hands a Trump presidency the freedom to take his prize." (Lawyers say Manning recently made a second suicide attempt.)
(Newser) The brightest moon in almost 69 years is lighting up the sky this week in a treat for star watchers around the globe. The phenomenon known as the supermoon will reach its most luminescent in North America before dawn on Monday. It will reach its zenith in Asia and the South Pacific on Monday night, the AP reports. Across the international dateline in New Zealand, it will reach its brightest after midnight (local time) on Tuesday. Viewers can expect to see a moon about 14% larger in diameter and about 30% brighter than when it's at its furthest from the Earth. It won't be as big and bright again for another 18 years.
The moon will be at its brightest this week because it's coming closer to the Earth along its elliptical orbit than at any time since January 1948. The supermoon will also bring stronger than usual high tides, followed by plunging low tides the next morning. NASA says its closest approach will occur at 6:21am Monday, when the moon comes within 221,523 milesthat's from the center of the Earth to the center of the moon. Full moon will occur at 8:52am EST. (Read more supermoon stories.)
(Newser) The sturdy stools and spongy cushions made at an upstate New York factory are formed with fungus. Ecovative Design is a business staking its growth on mycelium, the thread-like "roots" of mushrooms, the AP reports. The mycelium grows around small pieces of stalks and stems to create a material that can be molded into soft packaging for glassware or pressed into the boards used for the footstools they recently began selling. "It's like growing a tree in the shape of your furniture," says Ecovative co-founder Gavin McIntyre. "But rather than a tree, we're using mushrooms." Other researchers worldwide are trying to commercially grow fungi, bacteria, and proteins into clothing and building materials.
While the field is still more about promise than actual products, companies are working on making bricks without kilns, leather without cows, and silk without spiders. Proponents see micro-organisms as factories of the future, displacing energy-intensive manufacturing with more sustainable models. Andrew Pelling of the University of Ottawa, who runs a biophysical manipulation lab, believes the technology has a lot of promise, but we shouldn't underestimate how complex the biology is. "We're living in a biological stone age now," he says. "I think there are still a lot of mysteries to figure out before we have real full control to dial in anything you want to grow or make or repair. And for me, that's the exciting part." (Read more fungus stories.)
(Newser) New Zealand is planning to send in military helicopters and a navy ship to rescue about 1,000 tourists and hundreds of residents who remain stranded in the coastal town of Kaikoura after a powerful earthquake on Monday cut off train and vehicle access. The magnitude-7.8 quake struck the South Island just after midnight. It left two people dead and triggered a small tsunami. It also brought down rocks and mud that swept across highways and cracked apart roads. "From all directions, Kaikoura has essentially been isolated," Air Commodore Darryn Webb, the Acting Commander of New Zealand's Joint Forces, tells the AP. "There's a real imperative to support the town because it can't support itself."
Elsewhere, strong aftershocks continued to shake New Zealand on Monday, rattling the nerves of exhausted residents, though the country was largely spared the devastation it saw in 2011 when an earthquake struck the city of Christchurch and killed 185 people. Monday's quake caused damage in Wellington, the capital, and was also strongly felt in Christchurch. Residents said the shaking went on for about three minutes. Police say one person died in Kaikoura and another in Mt. Lyford, a nearby ski resort. Several other people suffered minor injuries in Kaikoura, police say. Prime Minister John Key toured the area and described the scene in the worst-hit areas "utter devastation." (Read more New Zealand earthquake stories.)
(Newser) Ivana Trump would approve of this article's headline. "Im quite known all around the world. ... Im known by the name Ivana. I really did not need the name Trump." So she tells the New York Post in an interview garnering attention thanks to this line: "I will suggest that I be ambassador for the Czech Republic." Yes, the 67-year-old Czech-speaker would like that role, though she's apparently not sad to have missed out on a much more high-profile one. When asked about being first lady herself, she replied, "I don't have envy for Melania [because she has] to start to pack the clothes and everything."
Further, "To be perfectly honest, I think probably the Trump Tower and my town house in New York is much better than the White House." The Washington Post reports the current US ambassador to the Czech Republic, Andy Schapiro, has been in place since August 2014. Were Donald Trump to nominate his ex-wife, she'd need to get the OK from the Senate. PBS explores what it takes to be a US ambassador, and this list from Mental Floss reveals Ivana would (nearly) follow in the footsteps of Shirley Temple Black, who served as ambassador to Czechoslovakia and Ghana. (The Czech Republic would like you to call it something else entirely.)
Pakistans top leaders gathered at the newly built Gwadar Port on Nov. 13 to see off Chinese cargo ships carrying goods to the Middle East and Africa.
Pakistans Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif hailed the historic moment as the "dawn of a new era," and said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is destined to transform the entire country, opening up a world of possibilities for not just Pakistan but also the rest of Asia, local media reported.
A convoy of 50 Chinese trucks carrying goods for sale abroad left Kashgar, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on Oct. 29. The convoy traveled along a road linking Xinjiang and Gwadar Port; it arrived at Gwadar Port on Nov. 12.
According to Sun Weidong, Chinese ambassador to Pakistan, this is the first trade convoy that has gone through western Pakistan from the north to the south. Yuan Jianmin, party secretary of Sinotrans & CSC Holdings Xinjiang branch, told the Global Times that the convoy is the first trade convoy to go through the CPEC since CPEC was first proposed more than three years ago.
CPEC, a 3,000-kilometer network of roads, railways and pipelines linking China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region to southwestern Pakistan's Gwadar Port, is also a major project of China's Belt and Road Initiative.
(Newser) As Jim Morrison put it, "we live, we die, and death not ends it." Truer words were perhaps never spoken about Tigran Svadjian, a California doctor who died on a Moscow street on Oct. 20, 2002but didn't. The Los Angeles Times looks at the story of the man they call "Doctor who," a case that began in 1998, when the 40-year-old native of Armenia expanded upon his own Orange County medical practice with the purchase of the Southwest Medical Group. The group was already in the government's crosshairs, having allegedly committed some $13 million in medical fraud. Svadjian insisted he was clean, but a 14-month audit completed in 2002 found he could only furnish 13 medical records of the 200 the state asked for.
Facing allegations of bilking the state of $1.9 million and 10 years in prison, he agreed to wear a wire and help prosecutors get his co-conspirators. He just had to go to Russia first to visit his sick mother. On Oct. 31, prosecutors got a fax from the US Embassy in Moscow: Svadjian was dead of pneumonia. In 2013, the statute of limitations having expired, the evidence against him was trashed. Except he wasn't dead. Viktoras Cajevkis (a Lithuanian) was stopped in a Kiev, Ukraine, airport in July. His passport was fake, and it led officials to Hurghada, Egypt, where Cajevkis was found to be Vasily Petrosov (a Russian), a scuba instructor who lived with his pregnant girlfriend and their child. Petrosov was, yes, Tigran Svadjian. Read the full story to learn what Petrosov faces now, and how $200 was all it took to "die." (Read more Longform stories.)
(Newser) A man whose homicide conviction was overturned in a case profiled in the Netflix series Making a Murderer was ordered released Monday from federal prison while prosecutors appeal. US Magistrate Judge William Duffin ordered Brendan Dassey's release contingent upon him meeting multiple conditions, reports the AP. The judge ruled in August that investigators tricked Dassey into confessing he helped his uncle, Steven Avery, rape, kill, and mutilate photographer Teresa Halbach in 2005. The state has appealed that ruling. Dassey's attorney, Steve Drizin, said he had not spoken yet with Dassey, but he hoped to have him out of prison in time for Thanksgiving. "That's what I'm focused on right now, getting him home, getting him with his family and then helping him to re-integrate back into society while his appeal plays out," Drizin said.
A rep for Wisconsin AG Brad Schimel, who had asked that Dassey not be released pending the appeal, had no immediate response. Dassey was 16 when Halbach died. He's now 27. Duffin ruled in August that investigators made promises of leniency to Dassey and that no "fair-minded jurists could disagree." He cited one investigator's comment that "you don't have to worry about things," plus repeated comments like "it's OK" and that they already knew what happened. Schimel said investigators didn't promise leniency and specifically told Dassey that no promises could be made. Dassey was sentenced to life in 2007. Court documents describe him as a slow learner who had poor grades and has difficulty understanding language and speaking. Avery was convicted in a separate trial and was also sentenced to life in prison. He's pursuing his own appeal. Their cases gained national attention after Making a Murderer spawned widespread conjecture about their innocence. (Read more Making a Murderer stories.)
The prospect of relocating to New Zealand was surging too high on search engines as Americans were searching the potential country to move on the election of Donald Trump. "Move to New Zealand" was remarkable trend recounted by Google Trends in the last seven days before the US Presidential Election.
On Yahoo Trends, developer James Macfie said there are other trending phrases that surfaced and are related to the election concluded in the United States. The leading phrase is "Places to move of Trump wins." It also suggests looking for Real Estates in New Zealand
The funniest phrase in search engines that transpire is the "end of the world" when Trump won the Election. It did become a major concern among Americans of moving out of the country based on the current trends.
The US election result did create a disappointing stand among half of those American who votes said on Business Insider. Next to New Zealand, the two other countries that Americans are considering are Canada and Ireland.
Top 10 - Celebrities that Will Leave the U.S. if Trump Wins
The move, however, is deemed possible to many as earning citizenship will not be as easy as most think. Though, there are other places that will be easier in finding a new country to live, but the process will be tedious and expensive.
The Canadian Immigration Site was able to detect that most IP address that visited their website are from the United States. This was in the hours when polls show that Trump was winning two days ago, said in The Times.
It was also written that if Americans who do not have family across the border nor have any skill for them to be admitted in immigrating submission, then they will be able to ask for a political asylum. Still, it will require much time before they get admitted to Canada.
Last September 1, SpaceX faced a big controversy following the unexpected explosion of Falcon 9 before it was scheduled for launching. The explosion happened in Cape Canaveral Air Force Base, Florida.
Two months after the explosion, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk is delightful to push and inform the public that the company is planning to do a relaunch of Falcon 9 by Mid-December. His confidence is rooted from the positive turnout of the investigation about SpaceX's Falcon 9 explosion, Nature World News reports.
The investigation revealed that the explosion was not done intentionally. During an interview with CNBC, Musk disclosed what investigators found out about the incident. The prevailing reason behind the explosion is a liquid oxygen which got ignited when SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket was being fueled. Musk was surprised with the investigation results, given that SpaceX has their unique way of fuelling their rockets.
"I think we've gotten to the bottom of the problem. It's never happened before in history. So that's why it took us awhile to sort it out," Musk remarked. Standard Media recalls that the incident damaged SpaceX Falcon 9's fleet and Israeli's $200 million worth of communication satellite.
According to MobiPicker, this communication satellite was owned by Facebook. The social media giant was aiming to make Facebook available in most parts of Africa. This was marked as the second time that a mishap was heard under SpaceX's company within 14 months of its operation.
Elon Musk has not disclosed yet, though, which aircraft will fly this time. However, it was already revealed that SpaceX will put their base on a new launch pad located in Kennedy Space Center, Florida. They have also announced the possibility that the aircraft might fly from their West Coast Site located in Vandenberg Air Force Base, California.
Apple's iPhone 8 will feature bezel-free designs and will be available in 5-inch and 5.-8-inch displays, according to Barclays Research analysts Blayne Curtis, Christopher Hemmelgarn, Thomas O'Malley, and Jerry Zhang. The analysts reported that the iPhone 8 rumors might sport new form factor, ditching the traditional bezel design of earlier models.
The analysts cited sources with Apple's supply chain following their trip to Asia this week. They were quoted by Mac Rumors saying that "iPhone 8 design didn't sound 100% locked down, but we believe the move is to a bezel-less design with screen sizes getting larger and curved edges in the original envelope. The iPhone 8 moves to 5" (from 4.7") and the Plus moves to 5.8" (from 5.5")."
According to the analysts, only the 5.8-inch iPhone 8 model will use OLED display technology, which is more energy efficient than LCD technology. As reported before, Samsung and LG were tapped to supply OLEDs to Apple for one year, then to be joined by Foxconn-owned Sharp by 2018.
This development corroborates the March 2016 report by KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo who said the iPhone 8 would have a curved OLED display and glass casing next year. Japanese website Nikkei described the iPhone 8 as a premium model that is positioned alongside Apple's 4.7-inch and 5-inch iPhones with LCD displays.
Previous reports revealed that the iPhone 8 would have no Home button. However, this rumor has been downplayed by Barclays. They do not believe that the iPhone 8 will move to an in-screen resolution, but they expect it to "extend vertically and horizontally."
For tech blogger and entrepreneur Robert Scoble, the iPhone 8 will have a clear glass case, which will be manufactured by Gorilla Glass, with polycarbonates infused for better durability. Apple's is rumored to incorporate augmented reality technology with the new smartphone.
Actor Jon Voight and father of actress Angelina Jolie commented about the ongoing divorce between the latter's marriage with estranged husband actor Brad Pitt, saying he is hoping "things will work out," between the Pitt and Jolie. Voight, 77, attended the premiere showing of "Fantastic Beast And Where To Find Them."
Voight also expressed his sentiments to the media, suggesting to fans that there may be hope for Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie to reconcile. A report from US Magazine also says that Pitt has established good relations with Voight since 2005 and has been in contact with him following the divorce filed by Angelina Jolie. Brad reportedly told Jon Voight he is drawn towards Angelina's passionate and extreme personality. Angelina Jolie's relationship with her father is seemed to have been strained in the past.
Brad Pitt has been a subject of an investigation by Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) after a report that the actor has been allegedly abusive to 15-year-old Maddox, the eldest and first adopted child of Angelina Jolie, and who supposedly intervened in the altercation between Pitt and Jolie while onboard their private jet plane on a flight home from a vacation in Paris. The incident inside the private plane was said to be the primary reason for Angelina Jolie to file for divorce. There were also allegations about Pitt's anger management issues, alcoholism and substance abuse.
Recently, it was reported that Pitt has been cleared by DCFS in its investigation. However, the custody battle over their six children is yet to be decided but an agreement signed by the two actors, allows Pitt therapeutic visitorial rights to their six kids who remain to be under the care and custody of their mother. The agreement was recommended by childcare professionals, saying it is for the children's best.
Dinosaurs were not the first and the only animals to have walked the earth. In the latest fossils unearthed by scientists in Sao Sao Joao de Polesine in Brazil, they discovered that dinosaurs lived along with the lagerpetids, animals that are supposedly dinosaur's predecessors.
The recent findings, which can also be read in Current Biology journal, may give clues to understanding "the differences that emerged as dinosaurs evolved and spread." Based on the fossils that also include partial sauropodomorp and partial lagerpetid (two fossils belonging to dinosaurs and two fossils belonging to lagerpetids), these two groups of animals share co-existence on the planet for approximately 30 million years, discarding previous theory that the existence of dinosaurs drove all other animals into extinction.
"We previously thought that once dinosaurs appeared, they sort of out-competed an drove the other animals like lagerpetids to extinction," said Mr. Max Cardos Langer, one of the authors of the journal and one of University of Sao Paulo's paleontologist, adding that with these discovery, they believe that these two different species lived side by side.
It is also a first time for scientists to find fossils for dinosaur and non-dinosaur dinosauromorph "together in the same excavation," indicating that both the dinosaurs and non-dinosaurs were "co-equals" since the early phase of "dinosaur evolution," according to the scientists.
Scientists also theorized that the first sauropodomorphs were carnivorous which walked with their two legs, unlike their descendants, which were herbivorous and walked on four legs. This is based on the fossil's teeth, which are capable of eating small animals, including possibly, the Ixalerpeton. In contrast, the Ixalerpeton fed on small invertebrates and insects.
The lagerpetid fossil, which belongs to Ixalerpeton polesinensis and dinosaur fossil, specifically those of Buriolestes schultzi, were extracted from a rock, which according to scientists dated as early as 237 million years ago.
BEIJING, Nov. 14 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday discussed China-U.S. relations with Donald Trump in a telephone conversation.
Xi congratulated Trump on his election as U.S. president and expressed his willingness to work with him.
Since the two countries established formal ties 37 years ago, bilateral relations have been continuously progressing, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples and promoting world and regional peace, stability and prosperity, Xi said.
Facts have shown that cooperation is the only correct choice for the two countries, he said.
As China-U.S. cooperation faces important opportunities and has huge potential, the two countries need to strengthen coordination, advance their respective economic development and global economic growth and expand exchanges and cooperation in various fields so as to bring more benefits to the two peoples and promote the smooth development of China-U.S. relations, said the Chinese president.
As the biggest developing country and the biggest developed country respectively and as the top two economies of the world, there are many things in which China and the United States can and should cooperate, Xi said.
"I attach great importance to China-U.S. relations and am ready to work with the U.S. side to carry forward bilateral ties and to better benefit the two peoples and the rest of the world," he told Trump.
For his part, Trump thanked Xi for the congratulations and said that he agreed with Xi on his views about U.S.-China relations.
China is a great and important country with eye-catching development prospects, said Trump. The United States and China can achieve win-win results featuring mutual benefits, he added.
Trump voiced his readiness to work with Xi to strengthen U.S.-China cooperation and expressed his belief that U.S.-China relations will witness even greater development.
Xi and Trump also agreed to maintain close contact, establish a good working relationship and meet at an early date to exchange views on bilateral ties and other issues of common concern.
Read more:
Beijing ready to push forward China-U.S. ties on new starting point: FM
Female workers in the village of Sanbeizhang in northern China's Hebei province present hand-made tiger-head shoes to children. Tiger-head shoe-making is a kind of local folk art that requires more than 20 individual steps. The shoes are believed to carry tidings of good health and future prosperity for children. Equipped with the skills to make tiger-head shoes, more than 1,000 female workers in the village are employed with annual salaries of over 10,000 RMB. (Wang Xiao/Xinhua)
New Delhi:
India on Monday celebrated the festival of Gurupurab with much gaiety and fervour. The Sikh festival marks the birth anniversary of founder of the religion Guru Nanak Dev and is celebrated every year on the full moon day of Kartik month of Hindu calendar.A
Guru Nanak Dev was born in year 1469 in Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi, in the present Shekhupura District of Pakistan.A
One of the most sacred Gurudwaras of Sikh Community in India, Golden temple in Amritsar was lit up for the festival on Monday. Delhi's Bangla Saheb along with other Sikh Temples were also decorated in bright lights.A
However, Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee has requested all devotees not to burst crackers this year in view of the heavy pollution caused by it.A
Morning prayers are being offered across the nation, here are the live updates:A
#WATCH: Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrations at the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) in Amritsar pic.twitter.com/s6PeLubWc7 a ANI (@ANI_news) November 14, 2016
Delhi: Gurudwara Bangla Sahib lit up on Guru Nanak Jayanti, the festival is celebrated every year on a full moon day in the month of Kartik pic.twitter.com/wkvQnFT3iU a ANI (@ANI_news) November 14, 2016
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New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed the Parivartan Rally in Ghazipur. Earlier on Monday, he laid foundation of the railways project at the same venue.
The Parivartan Rally is part of Bhartiya Janta Party's campaign for Uttar Pradesh assembly elections due in 2017.
PM Modi has to lay foundation stone of Tadi Ghat-Mau-Ghazipur railway line and a major bridge on river Ganga apart from addressing the party's rally as a part of the Parivartan Yatra. Both the events are going to take place at RTI Ground in Ghazipur.
Security arrangements have being made ahead of PM Modis visit to the place. This will be the only major event of Parivartan Yatra in eastern UP in which PM will participate.
PM Modi will hold six rallies as part of BJPs Uttar Pradesh's assembly election campaign. After the PMs address in Ghazipur the Yatra rally will move towards Azamgarh and on November 15, this yatra will enter Gorakhpur Pranth unit.
Here are the live updates: (Read highlights here)
#Yes, those against me are strong people. But, I will not be scared of them. I will not leave the path of truth & integrity: PM Modi
#My decision is like a 'Kadak Chai': PM Modi
#Enemy is flooding our nation with these counterfeit notes. We need to put an end to this: PM Modi
#Modi hits out at Congress, recalls 19month long Emergency
#Sensitive to see common man's problem from demonetisation, trying to abate it as much as possible: PM Modi
#PM Modi demands support during tough decisions
#No draught of cash in India, but the problem is that it is in wrong hands: PM Modi
#Scheme for crop insurance will hlp scores of farmers: PM Modi
#Will work towards encouraging corruption free and prosperous vegetable trade from the region: PM Modi in Ghazipur
#Will fulfill promises made my eight PMs from UP before me: PM Modi
#'I will complete incomplete work of Pandit Nehru, even as his family blames me': PM Modi
#Ghazipur's leader in 1952 raised the issue of region's poverty to Pandit Nehru, which led to set up of Patel committee: PM Modi
#PM Modi pays tribute to India's first Priem Minsiter Jawaharlal Nehru on his birth anniversary
#PM Modi speaks on black money during Ghazipur Parivartan Rally, hits out at black marketeers
#I have always received blessings from the land of Ghazipur: PM Modi at parivartan rally
#I salute this land(Ghazipur) which gave birth to Vir Abdul Hamid, who taught Pakistan a lesson in 1965 war: PM
#PM's Parivaratan Rally in Ghazipur: Modi to address public shortly
Uttar Pradesh: PM Modi arrives in Varanasi, will visit Ghazipur to lay foundations of a railway line and a bridge over river Ganges pic.twitter.com/69VEBDBMww ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) November 14, 2016
#PM Modi arrives in Varanasi, will go to Ghazipur from here (11:05 am)
#7 SP, 30 DSP, 12 Company PMF,6 Company Pac, 1000 Police Constable, 200 sub.Inspector, ATS commando teams deployed
#Security tightened as protests on demonetisation expected in PM's rally
#PM Leaves for Ghazipur, UP (9:30am)
(Read in Hindi)
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New Delhi:
Pro-Russian candidate Igor Dodon is being touted as the front-runner in Moldovia's presidential runoff after he bagged 55.3 per cent votes of the 97 per cent ballots counted till Sunday.
With 97 per cent of ballots counted till late yesterday, Socialist Party chief Dodon had 55.3 per cent of the votes, according to the electoral commission, with pro-European rival Maia Sandu on 44.7 per cent.
"We have won, everyone knows it," Dodon told a late-night press conference. Official results were due to be announced at 0800 (local time) on Monday.
The vote marks the first time in 16 years that Moldova -- wracked by corruption scandals in recent years -- is electing its leader by national vote instead of having parliament select the head of state.
Wedged between Ukraine and Romania, the tiny nation of 3.5 million people is caught in a political tug-of-war between Russia and the West.
Dodon had come out top in the first round of voting on October 30 with 48 per cent ahead of Sandu, a centre-right former education minister who worked for the World Bank, with 38 per cent.
The two candidates have diametrically opposed visions for Moldova's future.
Dodon -- who served as economy minister under a communist government between 2006 and 2009 is calling for deeper tiesand boosting trade with Moscow.
Sandu meanwhile urged a path towards Europe, calling for the withdrawal of thousands of Russian troops from the Russian-speaking separatist region of Transdniester, which broke away in the early 1990s after a brief civil war.
Moldova signed a historic EU association agreement in 2014, and half of its exports now go to the bloc.
The move was bitterly opposed by Russia, which responded with an embargo targeting Moldova's crucial agriculture sector.
"I and all my friends voted for Igor Dodon since hepromises to restore the strategic partnership with Russia,"said Vasilii Blindu, a 70-year-old pensioner in the northerntown of Balti. But Chisinau student Marcel Pruna, 22, said he backed Sandu because she will "carry out reforms in practice, not just in words".
Both candidates criticized the vote as badly organised,highlighting the shortage of ballot papers for overseasvoters.
More than 4,000 Moldovan and international observerswere on hand to monitor the vote. Turnout was 53.3 per cent, the electoral commission said.
The vote comes as a Moscow-friendly general also claimedvictory in ex-communist Bulgaria's presidential election Sunday, prompting Prime Minister Boyko Borisov to announce his resignation as his nominee was dealt a crushing defeat.
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Chen Baozhu died at the age of 89. (Photo /Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall)
On Nov. 12, a survivor of the Nanjing Massacre passed away in eastern Chinas Jiangsu province, reducing the number of registered survivors of the atrocity to 109.
Chen Baozhu died at the age of 89. Before her death, Chen left a testimony of her experience at the Japanese invaders hands during the massacre. According to Chen, Japanese troops abducted and raped many Chinese women, including Chens sister-in-law.
In addition to Chen, another two survivors passed away earlier this month: Ren Jingping, a 94-year-old survivor who died on Nov. 10, and Li Zhong, who died at the age of 90 on Nov. 7. Li was unable to leave a testimony due to his poor health.
The death of so many survivors has worried Chinese historians, who point out that the work of collecting testimonies will be harder and harder in the future.
According to the University of Southern California's (USC) Shoah Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to conducting audio-visual interviews with survivors and witnesses of the Holocaust and other genocides, the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall currently holds around 4,000 testimonies. Of those testimonies, most are in written form, though a smaller number of audio-visual testimonies have also been archived.
In order to preserve oral testimonies, the memorial hall launched a data collection project in October, aiming to gather oral records and visual files from 50 survivors who still retain clear memories of the massacre.
The Nanjing Massacre, which took place on Dec. 13, 1937, led to the murder of over 300,000 Chinese citizens, including defenseless civilians and unarmed soldiers. There were also innumerable reports of rape, looting and arson.
New Delhi:
US law does not prohibit President-elect Donald Trump from managing his business empire from the White House, according to one of his top advisors, who counseled nevertheless that the billionaire's businesses be run by his adult children.
Rudy Giuliani, a former mayor of New York and one of the leaders of Trump's presidential transition team, told CNN that American presidents are not covered under laws preventing high government officials from having private industry ventureswhile in office.
"You realize that those laws don't apply to the president, right? The president doesn't have to have a blind trust," Giuliani told CNN.
"For some reason, when the law was written, the president was exempt," said Giuliani, an attorney who also served yearsago with the US Justice Department.
"I think he's in a very unusual situation," Giuliani said of Trump.
In a separate interview on ABC's "This Week," Giuliani counseled that Trump should nevertheless remove himself fromthe running of his business empire.
"For the good of the country, and the fact you don't want a question coming up every time there's a decision made, he should basically take himself out of it, and just be a passive participant in the sense that he has no decision-making, noinvolvement," he said.
But Giuliani told CNN Trump's grown children should continue to actively manage the incoming president's businesses. Some have argued that Trump's three oldest children, Ivanka, Donald Jr. and Eric should have no dealings with his business while their father is in office, citing potential conflicts of interest.
Giuliani said such a restriction would be unreasonable. "He would basically put his children out of work if -- and they'd have to start a whole new business, and that wouldset up the whole, set up new problems," the former mayor said.
"It's kind of unrealistic to say you're going to take the business away from the three people who are running it andgive it to some independent person," Giuliani said. "Remember, they can't work in the government because of the government rule against nepotism, so you'd be putting themout of work."
Ivanka, Eric and Donald Jr are already executive vice presidents of the Trump Organization. All three, along with Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, are also members of the president-elect's transition team.
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New Delhi:
The Tata group has signed an agreement with General Electric Ventures, Microsoft Ventures, Qualcomm Ventures, HNA EcoTech, Pitango Venture Capital and RAMOT, the Business Engagement Center of Tel Aviv University (TAU), to establish a new technology incubator in Israel.
With the first closing of $20 million, the incubator called i3 Equity Partners (i3) will focus on developing next-generation IoT (Internet of Things) and IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) technologies.
Through this collaboration, the Tata group along with the other partners will support promising early-stage Israeli ventures, enabling them to reach an advanced phase of development, and ultimately strengthen their presence in global markets.
The partners, on their part, expect to tap the acclaimed ingenuity and knowhow of the Israeli tech industry, for growing their enterprises in the field of IoT, which is expected to transform how industry operates and how individuals live, work and play.
New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed the Parivartan rally at Ghazipur in Uttar Pradesh as part of the Bhartiya Janta Partys UP assembly polls campaign.
During his speech, PM Modi once again attacked opposition for protesting against demonetiosation of old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 currency notes. He also recalled the period of Emergency in 1975 when much of the press freedom was curtailed by ruling Congress party.
Here are the top quotes from PM Modis speech at Ghazipurs Parivartan Rally
PM Modi on Ghazipur: (Read live updates here)
#I salute this land(Ghazipur) which gave birth to Vir Abdul Hamid, who taught Pakistan a lesson in 1965 war.
#Ghazipur's leader in 1952 raised the issue of region's poverty to Pandit Nehru, which led to set up of Patel committee: PM Modi
#Will fulfil promises made my eight PMs from UP before me: PM ModiPM Modi on Ghazipurs development
#Will work towards encouraging corruption free and prosperous vegetable trade from the region
PM Modi in Ghazipur
#Scheme for crop insurance will help scores of farmers: PM ModiPM Modi on demonetisation
#No draught of cash in India, but the problem is that it is in wrong hands: PM Modi
#Sensitive to see common man's problem from demonetisation, trying to abate it as much as possible: PM Modi
#PM Modi demands support during tough decisions
PM Modi attacks Congress:
#I will complete incomplete work of Pandit Nehru, even as his family blames me: PM Modi
#Modi hits out at Congress, recalls 19month long Emergency
PM Modi on link between terrorism and black money:
#Enemy is flooding our nation with these counterfeit notes. We need to put an end to this: PM Modi
#Yes, those against me are strong people. But, I will not be scared of them. I will not leave the path of truth & integrity: PM Modi
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New Delhi:
Omi Vaidyas became an overnight sensation after playing nerdy Chatur Ramalingam in 2009 film 3 Idiots but did not do as many films in India and the actor cites lack of challenging roles as the reason for his absence from Bollywood.
Post 3 idiots, Omi starred in just four films - Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji, Desi Boyz, Players and Jodi Breakers, which released in 2012.
The actor 34-year-old actor says though he has enjoyed his stint with Hindi films especially in terms of money, he was not getting roles which excited him enough.
I am grateful for being remembered for my role in 3 Idiots because most people work all their lives to get that kind of fame. I got into this profession because I wanted to do something different. 3 Idiots was very challenging as I did not know the language and I did not grow up in India, Omi told PTI over phone from Washington DC.
The actor says travelling to exotic locales for his films shoots and getting to hang out with big Bollywood stars was a great experience but was not enough to convince him to continue doing big-budget movies in India.
After 3 Idiots, I did take up other projects which were enjoyable, I was paid very well and was appreciated by people. But the challenge of life is about learning constantly. Some people are just happy with making good money but I want to continue growing and for that you have to do different things. I strive on doing something different.
Omi is currently busy being a hands-on father to his son, who was born last year. Besides fatherhood, he is also starring in a new Indian-American show Brown Nation, which is an entertaining, slice of life series focused on life a struggling small IT business owner in New York.
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Mumbai:
Notwithstanding Prime Minister Narendra Modis emotional appeal to people to cooperate with him to weed out illegal money, Shiv Sena on Monday described the demonetisation as demonic and unsystematic that has led to financial anarchy in the country.
Lashing out further, the ruling ally said instead of striking Pakistan, Modi has wounded Indian citizens who do not have any black money and the few who actually possess illegal funds have safely parked it in foreign banks.
125 crore Indians are standing in queues in scorching heat without food and water. Do you expect them to back you in future? Are you repaying people the blessings they gave you by forcing them to come on streets? This is blatant cheating with them, an editorial in Sena mouthpiece Saamana said.
The spectacle of weeding out black money is monstrous, it said.
The Sena alleged that the path adopted by Modi to halt black money flow is demonic and unsystematic that has resulted in financial anarchy in the nation.
Instead of striking Pakistan, PM Modi has struck and wounded Indian citizens and mocked their nationalism by saluting them for bearing the anarchy, it said.
Black money is not held by ordinary citizens who are standing in queues but a handful of people who have parked their money in foreign banks before the demonetisation announcement. What action has been taken against them? it said.
Today, roads are empty, shops have no business, vegetable markets have no buyers, labourers have no work and petrol pumps are slowly getting shut for lack of change, the junior alliance partner said.
Modi, in an impassioned plea to the nation yesterday, asked for 50 days to weed out the ill-gotten wealth in India.
Blending emotion with aggression, the PM mounted a counteroffensive against the opposition over demonetisation of high-value currency notes, promising more anti-graft measures in future even if Im burned alive.
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Islamabad:
The Pakistan government said on Monday that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will visit Pakistan this week to improve ties in various fields.
The Foreign Office said Erdogan will visit the country on November 16-17 at the invitation of his Pakistan counterpart Mamnoon Hussain.
"While the Turkish President has been to Pakistan on a number of occasions, this would be his first bilateral visit to Pakistan since assuming office," it said.
Erdogan will be accompanied by a high-level entourage, including ministers and senior officials, as well as a large business delegation.
Besides meeting with Hussain, Erdogan would be holding talks with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and is also scheduled to address a joint session of Parliament.
The exchange of views between the two leaders would cover the entire range of bilateral matters, as well as regional and international issues.
Erdogan will also travel to Lahore. The Foreign Office said that Pakistan and Turkey are bound by an exemplary relationship characterised by warmth, cordiality and mutual trust.
"Frequent exchanges at the leadership and ministerial levels and growing cooperation in diverse fields are the hallmarks of the unique bonds between Pakistan and Turkey," it said.
It said the leadership of both countries is committed to transforming this historic relationship into a strong strategic partnership, in line with the realities of the 21st century.
It said bilateral relations between Pakistan and Turkey have witnessed tremendous growth and dynamism in recent years. Both sides are working to give powerful thrust to bilateral trade, investment and commercial cooperation as part of the efforts to build a robust economic partnership.
Both countries closely collaborate with and mutually support each other at regional and international forums.
The Foreign Office said that Turkey has steadfastly supported the people of "Jammu and Kashmir in their just struggle for the right to self-determination in accordancewith the relevant UN resolutions".
Turkey plays a vital and active role as a member of the OIC Contact Group on Jammu and Kashmir, it said adding Erdogan's visit would contribute substantially to further solidifying the relationship between the two countries.
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Ghazipur (UP):
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the corrupt were upset while the poor were enjoying a sound sleep after his decision to demonetise currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000. PM Modi also urged people to bear some inconvenience to root out graft.
After demonetisation, the poor are enjoying a sound sleep while rich are running from pillar to post to buy sleeping pills, Modi said as he tried to rally public support in poll-bound Uttar Pradesh, picking up from where he left yesterday in his speeches laced with emotion and aggression in Goa and Belagavi.
Stating that he understood the inconvenience being faced by people due to demonetisation, Modi compared his action to a new whitewash which gives out pungent smell, but is necessary.
My decision is a little harsh. When I was young, poor people used to ask for kadak (strong) tea but it spoils the mood of rich, he said at BJPs Parivartan Yatra rally here.
Particularly stinging in his criticism of Congress which has accused him of causing harassment to the common people, the PM recalled that Congress governments had imposed Emergency, stifling rights of the people and the media, and had banned chavanni (25 paise coins).
Under which law did they ban chavanni, it is another thing that they could not move beyond chavanni ... you took the step as per your stature and we did what matched ours, he said taking a swipe at the opposition party.
ALSO READ | PM's Parivartan Rally in Ghazipur: Modi hits out at opposition for protest against demonetisation, promises progress to farmers
Invoking Jawaharlal Nehru, the Prime Minister said he purposely chose his birth anniversary for the visit here to launch projects.
You (Nehru) are no more, leaders from your party and your family are levelling false allegations, still on your birthday I am starting work to complete your unfulfilled desire for the development of people, Modi said.
Nobody would have offered a tribute which an MP from Uttar Pradesh is giving, Modi, who represents Varanasi Lok Sabha seat, said, adding those who did not work towards fulfilling Pandit Nehrus dream should be exposed.
ALSO READ | UP assembly polls 2017: Top quotes from PM Modis Parivartan Rally in Ghazipur
Accusing opposition leaders of misleading people, he asked whether corruption and dishonesty should be allowed in the country.
Dont mislead people...I want to ask Congressmen who claim people are facing problems how you turned the entire country into a jail for 19 months by imposing emergency, he said, adding it was done only to save the seat of the then prime minister Indira Gandhi after the Allahabad High Court verdict against her, and not out of any concern for the poor.
He said there was no dearth of money for development, but the fact was that money was stashed away somewhere else and not where it should have been.
The Prime Minister said he knew he was up against the powerful but vowed to continue his fight for the poor, farmers and villagers.
I know what all I will have to bear as those who have their coffers full are very strong people...they have the strength to buy governments. They have the power to topple and can spoil the future (of anyone) but should I be afraid of such people?
Should I shun the path of honesty and run away...it is with your blessings that I have taken up such a big fight, he said.
Defending the decision on demonetisation, Modi said the menace of fake currency could not have been checked if such a big offensive was not initiated.
Fake notes were being printed across the border and pumped into the country...should this move of the enemy not be checked for waging a war against terrorism, naxalism and extremism...ever since the Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes were scrapped, they are most worried as they are not able to make payments, Modi said.
He alleged that rumours were being spread and housewives instigated that their hard earned money for daughters marriage was being taken away.
Modi assured them that their Rs 2.5 lakh would not be touched. Moreover, they would get interest on it.
Without naming BSP chief Mayawati, who has made strident criticism of the prime minister over ban on high denomination currency notes, Modi said that some political parties are very worried as they do not know what to do.
They used to get huge garlands of notes under which their face got hidden, he said, ostensibly referring to the garland of currency notes presented to Mayawati during a BSP rally in Lucknow when she was the chief minister.
Whenever we do something new it gives some pain but the intention should be good...whatever I am doing is for the betterment of poor, farmers, villagers, he stressed.
Some people wear a smile on the face, they even say Modi ji you have done a good job. But they instigate their party workers to oppose my decision, he said, without taking any names.
Scoffing at opposition for blaming him for the problems being faced by the poor, the Prime Minister said he was better aware of the hardships being faced by commoners.
You (Congress) issue statements. I feel the pulse of the masses, he said.
Referring to people dumping wads of old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes in rivers, the Prime Minister said, You cannot wash your sins off just by putting currency notes in the river Ganges.
Reaching out to the locals, Modi, who laid the foundation for several rail projects, began his address in Bhojpuri by saluting Ghazipur for giving birth to Param Vir Chakra awardee Abdul Hamid, who taught Pakistan a lesson in the 1965 war.
Thanking the voters of Uttar Pradesh for providing the support and trusting the BJP in the last Lok Sabha elections, Modi said, The state played a key role in giving us absolute majority.
Uttar Pradesh will go to polls early next year. Referring to intelligence inputs on terror agencies using counterfeit notes to fund their activities on Indian soil, Modi said the enemy is flooding the nation with these fake notes and we need to put an end to this.
Like his Sundays speech in Goa, Modi said he is not scared of those against him and will never stray from the path of truth and integrity.
New Delhi/Kolkata/Lucknow:
As a belligerent Prime Minister sought to rally public support for the contentious measure, hailed and reviled by his supporters and opponents, the demonetisation exercise saw many of his political rivals come together on the issue, with some even alleging BJP leaders had prior information about the impending decision.
The November 8 decision of the Modi government, however, brought a fractured opposition together on the issue barely a couple of days ahead of Parliaments winter session with representatives of seven partiesCongress, TMC, JD(U), RJD, CPI, CPI(M) and YSR (Congress)--discussing the matter.
The SP, BSP and AAP, which have strongly criticised the government on the demonetisation issue gave the meeting a miss, besides DMK, AIADMK and NCP.
Mamata Banerjees TMC has even decided to meet President Pranab Mukherjee on November 16, the day Parliament session starts, to highlight the crisis situation.
It was, however, not clear if other parties will join TMC in the delegation to President. The leaders of these parties are likely to meet again tomorrow when representatives from Mayawatis BSP and some others are expected to be present, according to CPI national secretary D Raja.
#WATCH Congress, TMC, RJD, JD(U),JMM, CPI, CPI(M) and other opposition parties hold meeting ahead of Parliament winter session pic.twitter.com/RF11sl2jzV ANI (@ANI_news) November 14, 2016
#InsideVisuals Congress, TMC, RJD, JD(U),JMM, CPI, CPI(M) and other opposition parties hold meeting ahead of Parliament winter session pic.twitter.com/icDe6hZ2kr ANI (@ANI_news) November 14, 2016
The Congress accused the Modi government of unleashing economic anarchy and tax terrorism in the country and called for unity among opposition parties.
ALSO READ | UP assembly polls 2017: Top quotes from PM Modis Parivartan Rally in Ghazipur
Whatever may be the differences, political parties should not shy away from voicing the concern of the people so as to address the grievances, partys chief spokesman Randeep Surjewala said soon after the meeting of the opposition parties.
Watch video | Poor are having a sound sleep, the corrupt are upset: PM Modi
With millions grappling with demonetisation blues, a combative Narendra Modi on Monday defended the action as one which has brought sound sleep to the poor and unnerved the corrupt even as his rivals made a common cause against him, terming his remarks as insult to people.
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New Delhi:
Hyundai Motor India aspires to launch an entry level SUV in 2019s first half as it looks to strengthen its presence in the fast growing segment.
The company, which today launched all new Tucson with an introductory price ranging between Rs 18.99 lakh and Rs 24.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), has already three SUV models in its portfolio, including Creta and Santa Fe.
"We aim to launch an entry level SUV in the first half of 2019. It will be below Creta. So, we will have four SUVs in our product range," Hyundai Motor India Ltd MD & CEO YK Koo told reporters here.
SUV sales have been growing all over the globe, including China and Europe, and is also going to be a very popular segment in India as well, he added.
Hyundai is currently developing a sub 4-metre compact SUV in order to fill the gap that lies below Creta. It had showcased concept compact SUV Carlino at the Auto Expo this year in February.
Also Read: Hyundai Motor India strengthens SUV portfolio, launches all-new Tucson
When asked about vehicles with alternate fuels, Koo said the company has asked its global R&D centre to look into possible models for the country.
"Hyundai has strong portfolio of electric and hybrid vehicles. We are planning to unveil a hybrid product during the 2018 Auto Expo," he added.
Commenting on the Tuscon launch, he said with the introduction of the SUV the company is aiming to strengthen its presence in the premium segment.
The company has set a target of selling 500-700 units of the model per month.Hyundai has launched the third generation Tucson with both petrol and diesel powertrains.
Also Read: Hyundai Motors to roll out four SUVs in Indian markets over next two years
The manual petrol variant is priced at Rs 18.99 lakh while the diesel versions are priced between Rs 21.59 lakh and Rs 23.48 lakh. The petrol automatic is priced at Rs 21.79 lakh while the one with diesel powertrain is priced at Rs 24.99 lakh.
"The launch of third generation all new Tucson will create a benchmark by giving Hyundai experience to the aspirational Indian customers," Koo said.
With over 45 lakh units sold globally, Tucson is one of the best-selling SUVs in the world, he added. Tucson comes with 2 litre petrol and diesel engine options and new various features including a puddle lamp, downhill brake control and front and rear parking sensors.
The petrol version with manual transmission company comes with 155 PS of power and delivers a fuel efficiency of 13.03 km/ litre. The petrol automatic delivers a fuel efficiency of 12.95 km/ litre.
The diesel variant with manual transmission offers 185 PS of power and a claimed fuel efficiency of 18.42 km/litre. The diesel automatic delivers a fuel efficiency of 16.38 km/ litre.
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New Delhi:
Reserve Bank of India on Monday notified banks to waive off ATM customer charges amid growing usage of ATMs post demonetisation move by the government.
RBI notification on Monday says that banks shall waive levy of ATM charges for all transactions (inclusive of both financial and non-financial transactions) by savings bank customers done at their own banks ATMs as well as at other banks ATMs, irrespective of the number of transactions during the month.
The customer charge waiver is applicable on transactions done at ATMs from November 10, 2016 till December 30, 2016.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in a circular dated November 8, has advised all banks to make ATMs free of cost to their customers till 30 December. following demonetisation move by the government and RBI circular, all major banks have waived the charges for own-bank transactions.
HDFC Bank Ltd, Axis Bank Ltd and ICICI Bank Ltd had waived off customer charges on own-bank transaction till 30 December.
Banks charge you a transaction fee if you transacted more than five times at your own banks ATM.
Earlier, transaction fee was levied on transaction beyond a certain limit. Hence, only three transactions will be free at other banks ATMs in six metro citiesMumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru and Hyderabad. For non-metro users, the number of free transactions at other bank ATM will remain at five.
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Female Chinese fighter jet pilot Yu Xu of the Bayi Aerobatic Team of the Peoples Liberation Army's Air Force is pictured during the 11th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, also known as Airshow China 2016, in Zhuhai city, South Chinas Guangdong province, Nov 1, 2016. [Photo/IC]
The engine and the flight data recorder, or black box, of the two-seater fighter jet J-10 that crashed and left one of the country's first female fighter pilots Yu Xu dead, have been recovered at the accident site in Yutian county, North China's Hebei province, an official said.
Rescuers found the engine and black box Saturday evening and handed them over to authorities, said the official in charge of the military department of Chenjiapu township in Yutian.
The authorities are investigating the cause, the official added, and the search work for the jet's remains ended Sunday afternoon.
Two pilots from the Bayi Aerobatic Team of People's Liberation Army's Air Force were conducting a routine flight training Saturday morning in Tianjin before they were forced to eject from the jet.
Two J-10 jets from the aerobatic team were training when the planes hit each other, according to media reports.
Witnesses said the impact left a 10-meter diameter and 3-meter deep pit on the farmland at Dayangpu village of Chenjiapu. The plane was flying from west to east before the crash. Another plane circled twice above the site and left.
The male pilot parachuted to safety. But Yu Xu, the country's first female J-10 pilot, hit the wing of another J-10 and died. She was at the back seat during the training.
A medical worker at the Yutian county hospital said the male pilot was sent to hospital around 11 am on Saturday, and was discharged soon as he had minor injuries. He has been identified as 35 years old Li.
Female Chinese fighter jet pilot Yu Xu (right) of the Bayi Aerobatic Team of the Peoples Liberation Army's Air Force is pictured during the 11th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, also known as Airshow China 2016, in Zhuhai city, South Chinas Guangdong province, Nov 2, 2016. [Photo/IC]
Born in 1986, Yu was from Chongzhou city in Southwest China's Sichuan province. She joined the military in 2005 as a student at the PLA Air Force Aviation University, and first flew J-10 in July 2012.
Fans gave her the nickname Golden Peafowl because the beautiful and versatile woman was also better at the peafowl dance. A photo showed that she performed the dance at a school party after joining in the university.
Yu has joined the performance of the Bayi Aerobatic Team during the 11th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, also known as Airshow China 2016, in Zhuhai city, South China's Guangdong province earlier this month.
Yu did an interview with China National Radio in Zhuhai, which provided the last tape recordings of her.
She said it was a happy thing to be a pilot and she has never regretted her decision. She also dreamed to become an astronaut. "I will receive hard training to realize my dream," she said.
Yu's parents arrived in Tianjin Saturday evening after the army informed them of the news. They choked with tears and stayed up at Yu's dormitory room for the whole night.
The parents ate nothing before their friend Du Wenbiao, a military officer, finally persuaded them to have something Sunday evening.
Chongzhou city officials have also arrived in Tianjin Sunday afternoon to help the parents to deal with the aftermath.
Millions of people read the news released by the Air Force at Sina Weibo, a Twitter-like service in China, and paid their respect. Many have considered Yu as a model in pursuing their dreams.
Read more:
Air force pilot: "Basically, we have no difference from male pilots"
New Delhi:
Who knew it that the country would come to a standstill within a few hours just after the announcement of demonetisation by PM Modi on November 8.
In an endeavour to clean the country of black money, corruption and tax evasion, PM Modi made a big announcement of banning 500 and 1000 Rupee notes in the country.
The ensuing days saw long queues, cash woes not only to some but for the entire nation. Reports of sacks full of burnt notes, floating torn old notes in Ganga river also pointed towards the hoarded money.
ALSO READ: (Demonetisation was part of PM Modis Swachh Bharat mission, says Venkaiah Naidu)
Just like any other big announcement this change also met with criticism from Opposition and a large section of commoners.
Sensing the troubles of people, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that it will take another 50 days for normalization of currency usage in the country.
Different reports starting pouring in from various parts of the country of deaths either waiting in long queues or from heart attack.
ALSO READ (Marriage seasons hit hard by demonetisation move)
#A hospital in Mumbai refused to admit an ill newborn because his parents did not have the legal tender. The child died, though the government has permitted the use of old currency in government-run hospitals for some time.
#In Mainpuri of Uttar Pradesh, doctors stopped treating one year old Kush, suffering from high fever, after his parents ran out of 100 rupee notes. The kid was brought home and breathed his last at him house.
#An 18 month old baby died in Vishakhapatnam as his parents didnt have money to save his life. The private hospital refused to accept old currency notes of Rs 500 or 1,000.
#In Pali district of Rajasthan, ambulance wouldn't take Champalal Meghwal's new born to hospital as he only had Rs 500 and 1,000 notes.
#In Telangana, a 55-year-old woman committed suicide after thinking that her cash savings of Rs 54 lakh were now worthless.
#In Kushinagar district of UP, a washerwoman died of shock after she got to know that the money (500 and 1000 Rupee) she had saved is no longer valid.
ALSO READ: (Demonetisation woes: Helicopters pressed into service to dispense cash at ATMs)
#In West Bengals Howrah, a man tense over demonetisation murdered his wife because she returned empty handed from the ATM.
#In Kaimur of Bihar, a 45 year old man died of a massive heart attack as he feared his daughter's would-be in-laws may no longer accept his old currency notes in dowry.
#In Thalassery of Kerala, a 45 year man fell from the second floor while filling the deposit slip and died.
#A 72-year-old man died of a massive heart attack while waiting to deposit old currency notes at a bank in Mumbai.
#A 47 year old farmer waiting to deposit old currency notes at a bank in Mumbai, died of a massive heart attack.
#A 75 year- old Karthikeyan in Kerala collapsed before a bank and died. Reports say, he had been waiting for an hour in the queue.
#In Karnatakas Udupi, a 96-year- old man died waiting in a long queue at the bank, and the bank hadn't even opened yet.
#A 69- year- old Vinay Kumar Pandey, a retired BSNL employee, died waiting in a bank queue in Madhya Pradesh.
ALSO READ: (Midnight cabinet meet on demonetisation: ATM withdrawal limit increased to 2,500; Old notes to be valid in emergency services till Nov 24)
# In Bhopal, a State Bank of India cashier died of heart attack due to elongated hours, resulting in poor health.
#A man in Faizabad of UP reportedly died of shock after watching the currency ban announcement on TV.
Not only these but many deaths have been reported post demonetisation/currency ban in the country.
New Delhi:
The demonetisation issue on Monday figured prominently at the all-party meeting convened by Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan with all major opposition parties, including the Congress, wanting a debate on it in Parliament.
The cross-LoC surgical strikes, policy towards Pakistan, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, besides OROP and the plight of farmers were also among issues that were raised at the meeting with parties demanding discussion on them.
Major opposition parties, during the meeting which lasted over three hours, urged Mahajan to allow a debate on demonetisation on a priority so difficulties faced by the common man could be highlighted. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also attended a dinner hosted by the Speaker after the all-party meeting.
ALSO READ | Opposition unites to take on PM Narendra Modi in Parliament over demonetisation
Leaders of various parties have demanded discussion on demonetisation and the steps taken by the government to exchange the currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000. The situation in Jammu and Kashmir, holding of simultaneous elections to state assemblies and Lok Sabha, and state funding of polls also emerged as issues on which parties have demanded discussion, the Speaker said after the meeting.
She said 22 to 23 bills are likely to be introduced in the winter session which will have 22 sittings.
Mahajan also informed the representatives of various parties present that the Lok Sabha has taken a second step forward towards making the functioning of the House paperless.
Watch video | Poor are having a sound sleep, the corrupt are upset: PM Modi
She said while a copy each of big reports, including those of the CAG would be sent to party offices, the members would invidually be sent reports online. Minimum copies of general and rail budgets would be printed. She informed that an e-portal has already been introduced for the purpose where all reports and questions are uploaded.
Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge said his party would give notices for adjournment, short duration discussions and calling attention motion on various issues including demonetisation, surgical strikes and governments policy towards Pakistan.
Among other issues on which Congress has sought discussion include OROP, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and the alleged plight of farmers, besides proposed merger of Railway and Union budgets.
The poor, salaried class, housewives, small traders and daily-wage earners are the worst sufferers of demonetisation move and their plight would be highlighted by the party, Kharge told reporters.
Leaders of various political parties, including Congress, BJD, Trinamool Congress, SP, SAD, Shiv Sena, LJP, RLSP and BJP were present at the meeting. The Speaker sought their cooperation in smooth functioning of the House.
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Lucknow:
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav will inaugurate Agra-Lucknow Expressway on November 21, wherein fighters planes will take part to mark its grand opening ceremony. Agra-Lucknow Expressway, which stretch 302-km, is the most ambitious project of Akhilesh Yadav.
It has been completed in a record time of 22 month and has cost of Rs 13,200 crore. It will be open for public in December this year.
Fighter jets will touch Agra-Lucknow expressway on its inaugration on November 21. On the day, party supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav will also celebrte his 78th birthday.
According to reports, 11 Indian Air Force (IAF) jets will land and take-off from the expressway to test the quality of build. These jet fighters will release tri-coloured smoke.
The government is looking to build highways across the country that can also serve as landing strips or runways for aircraft, both civil and military. Road and Transport minister Nitin Gadkari has spoken of the governments plan to come up with an airport, in which the highway can be used both by vehicles and airplanes. The airport is reportedly being built in Rajasthan.
The Agra-Lucknow expressway will pass through Unnao, Kannauj, Etawah, Mainpuri and Firozabad. It will also will shrink the travel time between Agra and Lucknow to just four hours. .
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New Delhi:
Bigg Boss 10 has displayed amazing twists and turns till now and Monday was no different.
The housemates woke up to a beautiful morning as the Tunak Tunak song was played in the background.A VJ Bani is the captain of the current week.
However, itas the day of nominations and thus many clashes, fights and arguments are witnessed in the episode.
Some excerpts from Episode 29 are given below:A
# VJ Bani felt that aGharwalea argue on stupid issues!
# Monalisa Antara, Manveer Gurjar and Manu Punjabi talk about VJ Bani and Om Swami
# Gharwale are asked to mutually discuss and nominate 4 boring contestants.
# Nitibha Kaul used her Immunity Medallion and is safe from nomination.
# VJ Bani is deprived of casting her vote and feels really bad about it.
# Om Swami faced the wrath of both Manu Punjabi and Monalisa as both lost their cool over him.
What made #ManuPunjabi lose his cool over #OmSwami? Tune in now to know the reason! #BB10 pic.twitter.com/BnDVxCaOFQ a Bigg Boss (@BiggBoss) November 14, 2016
# Bigg Boss asked Manveer Gurjar to nominate 4 contestants without anyoneas consent.
# He suggested the names of Karan Mehra, Rahul Dev, Rohan Mehra and Gaurav Chopra for nominations.
# However, other housemates didnat agree with his decision and Rahul Dev, Karan Mehra, Monalisa and Lokesh Sharma were nominated for eviction this week.
# War of words occur between Lopamudra and VJ Bani.
# Lokesh Sharma, Manu Punjabi and Manveer Gurjar discuss the Gharwale and their day plan.
# Monalisa Antara tells captain VJ Bani that the bathroom is not clean, an argument breaks out on this topic.
# Housemates argue over the house duties and VJ Bani tries to justify her role as a captain.
(File photo of a thief caught in Shandong province. Photo/Lznews.cn)
A man in Zhangzhou, Fujian province is facing prosecution after a thief he chased dropped dead on the street. The case has elicited widespread public debate over whether or not prosecution would discourage people from trying to prevent similar crimes in the future.
The man, surnamed Huang, discovered a thief in his home around 12 a.m. one rainy night in March. Huang chased the thief onto the street and grappled with the thief until the thief slipped and fell down. The fall caused brain damage, which eventually led to the death, Xiamen Daily reported.
Prosecutors argue that Huang should be punished for negligent homicide, as he should have realized that chasing after someone on a rainy night could lead to injuries. Local police have appealed to prosecutors to arrest Huang, while the Zhangpu County Peoples Procuratorate turned down the appeal for lack of evidence, according to the Xinhua News Agency.
The case quickly triggered a public outcry as many expressed their opposition to a punishment for Huang. Many argued that any sort of sentence for Huang would set a precedent and keep well-meaning citizens from intervening to prevent similar future crimes.
More than 70 percent of some 80,000 netizens expressed their belief on Sina Weibo that prosecution would be unreasonable. In response, local prosecutors told Xinhua that the case remains under investigation; no official charges have been made.
(File photo of Xiao Jiguo)
As U.S. President Barack Obama prepares to leave office in January, another man one who shares a physical appearance with Obama but not much else is also preparing for some major life changes.
Xiao Jiguo was first told that he looked like Obama in 2008, after the latter was elected and the former chose to cut his long hair short. In a profile done by Henan news site Yuqinge.com, Xiao said he didnt even know who Obama was at the time, but when he eventually saw a picture, he had to admit the resemblance. Later, he found out that even their birthdays were almost the same just one day apart, though, at 30, Xiao is significantly younger than his American lookalike.
(File photo of Xiao Jiguo)
Xiao is an actor, but he was a mostly unknown name until 2012, when he performed on a televised talent competition. Since then, he has had several small roles in Chinese films. He also earns money making appearances as Obama at various corporate functions, fundraisers and other events around China. Recently, he starred in a comedy titled Obama goes on Blind dates, according to the BBC.
Although Xiao makes a living by pretending to be the U.S. president, his impression of the eloquent Obama has one persistent flaw: Xiao speaks only Chinese.
I can only speak a few words of English, he acknowledged in the Yuqinge.com profile, so when I do my impression, most of what Im saying is made-up English. Nobody can understand it.
(File photo of Xiao Jiguo)
Nevertheless, Xiao has enjoyed real success over the past few years. He told the BBC that he has earned at least 100,000 RMB ($14,700) every month since last year. Perhaps it is unsurprising, then, that when asked by NBC what he would say to President Obama if he ever had the opportunity to meet the man, Xiao answered:
If one day I could have the chance to meet President Obama, I would say thanks so much to him. I think there is some bond between us.
(File photo of Xiao Jiguo)
(File photo of Xiao Jiguo)
The sea water desalination plant on Yongxing island
A series of changes have taken place in the city of Sansha since the city was officially established in July 2012. The changes are all intended to make local residents' lives easier, according to the first plenary session of the CPC Sansha Committee.
A total of nine seawater desalination plants have been built in Sansha. The plant on Yongxing Island has the capacity to desalinate 1,000 tons of sea water per day. Water pipelines cover the entire island. These plants increase the capacity of sea water desalination on the Xisha islands and reefs to 500,000 tons per year. The island is also working hard to transport fresh water from Hainan Island; a total of 45,000 tons of fresh water have so far been brought to Yongxing Island.
In addition, other facilities including supermarkets, restaurants and beauty salons have begun operation on the island. The construction of a school has finished, and 29 students have enrolled.
"Life on Yongxing Island is very convenient now. There is sufficient electricity and water, as well as other supplies," said Feng Jiansheng, a worker at Sansha Information Center. He added that he plans to have his son attend the Yongxing school.
Sansha, the smallest prefecture-level city by both population and land area in China, has jurisdiction over more than 2 million square kilometers, most of which is water. The city government is seated on Yongxing Island.
STAMFORD The Stamford, Greenwich and Greater Norwalk chambers of commerce have teamed up to organize a tabletop expo Thursday for local businesses at the University of Connecticuts downtown campus.
Running from 3 to 6 p.m., the event is intended to help businesses promote themselves in a casual way, gain exposure and attract new customers, the organizers said.
About 100 businesses are set to participate, with another 100 people likely to attend, according to Stamford Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Jack Condlin.
It gives businesses and business people the opportunity to meet people face to face and display goods and services in a one-on-one setting, Condlin said. It provides an opportunity for chamber members that are participating to expand and cast a bigger net. You can reach a broader audience.
The event exemplifies how the three chambers present some of their best members to the public, said Greenwich Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Marcia OKane.
It provides the exhibitors the opportunity to advertise their businesses, to answer questions and to provide giveaways, OKane said. Tabletop promotion is a wonderful way for businesses to get in front of business people and residents in a unique way. And this is an excellent networking event for those who attend. And, another incentive for people to attend: Its free.
The 2016 expo continues a tradition of joint confabs by chambers of commerce in southwestern Connecticut. Norwalk Community College hosted a March show that included the Stamford chamber as well as others from Bridgeport, Darien, Fairfield, Stratford, Trumbull and Westport.
This expo not only provides an opportunity for participating member businesses and organizations to gain exposure and market their services and products, but it also provides an opportunity for the members of these three chambers to come together and network beyond their normal sphere, said Brian Griffin, vice president of the Greater Norwalk Chamber of Commerce. (Its) always a great occasion to learn about local businesses and meet new people.
A 5-foot table, which comes with linen and a table sign, costs $300 for each business participating in the expo. There is an additional $50 charge for electricity.
To register for the expo, visit the following link: http://www.stamfordchamber.com/register.asp?id=1375
pschot@scni.com; 203-964-2236; twitter: @paulschott
BETHEL - Dan OGrady, the newly elected judge for the Northern Fairfield County Probate Court, is offering to address civic and other groups on various probate matters at no charge.
These Practical Probate seminars are designed to teach non-attorneys about various topics, including Connecticut estate taxes, conservatorships, guardianships, wills, living trusts and more. The presentations are intended to help educate the public and help them better understand their own situations when it comes to probate court.
DANBURY - Sen. Chris Murphy honored three city veterans and an Air Force Academy candidate Monday at a pancake breakfast for veterans.
Murphy gave citations to Daniel Hayes, the citys director of veterans affairs, Thomas Saadi, a City Councilman, Steve Fako, the commander of American Legion Post 60, and Joseph Tayor, an Air Force Academy candidate.
The recognitions came during an 8 a.m. breakfast at American Legion Post 60.
Hayes, who was awarded the Bronze Star for heroism in Operation Desert Storm, was honored for his work helping city veterans with benefits and services.
Saadi, a Major in the 411th Civil Affairs Battalion in the Army Reserve, was honored for his work helping veterans as the chief of staff and general counsel at the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs.
Fako, a Navy veteran who served in Vietnam, was honored for his work with the American Legion post.
Taylor, who Murphy nominated to the Air Force Academy, was honored for his academic and extracurricular accomplishments and your desire to serve our country in the armed forces.
A number of people in Zhejiang province are questioning why they have to vacate their new apartments, in which most of them have lived for less than one year.
In August, the residents were asked to leave their houses by the end of November, at the request of the city planning department of Shengzhou. Their houses, which were built in the past few years by residents relocated from nearby villages using government subsidies, will reportedly be transformed into a high-end commercial and residential building, according to the deputy chief of the city's planning department.
Even though each resident will be compensated with several million RMB, most are still reluctant to move out. Some call it "a waste of individual and governmental properties." Using government compensation and personal savings to build and decorate new units, 1,820 residents moved into new apartments at the beginning of 2016.
Zhou Fuduo, a retired professor of Urban & Regional Planning, said that someone should take responsibility for the planning failure. He added that wasting resources is entirely avoidable if policies remain constant.
There are many reasons to become an entrepreneur, but no matter what yours are -- even if they dont include getting rich -- your business still needs to generate a profit.
Related: 9 Factors That Helped Me Make My First $1M in Profits
Without one, you cant keep the doors open, and you cant keep doing what you love.
Unfortunately, the majority of new businesses ultimately end up failing within the first few years. In large part, this is due to an inability to generate a sufficient profit, and its not a problem to scoff at -- even businesses built on solid ideas can suffer from a lack of profitability.
So, what prevents businesses from being profitable in the first place? Here are seven major problems.
1. Low prices
Setting prices is one of the first and most important decisions youll have to make for your business. How you set your prices could easily dictate your future success. Most entrepreneurs immediately caution themselves not to set prices too high; if your product costs more than your competitors', you could turn away your entire target market.
However, if you set prices too low, youll end up spending more in production than you can feasibly make back. Consider your margins carefully, and dont be afraid to charge for quality. If you spend more time making your product better, people will be willing to pay for it.
2. Too much overhead
There are some things your business absolutely needs to survive. However, you may be overestimating your needs in some key areas. For example, do you really need that 3,000-square-foot office when you have only two employees you're running the business with? Do you really need to invest in that piece of machinery that adds only a marginal value to your finished product?
Think carefully about your overhead; if you spend too much there, you could create a hole too deep to dig out of.
Related: A Simple Guide to Understanding Your Profit and Loss Statement
3. Too many ongoing costs
It doesnt take much for your business expenses to start spiraling out of control; and because expenses come in so many forms, its hard to pin down any one area where youre bleeding money. Think about how many people you have on staff, what you pay your vendors, how much it costs to produce a single product and even monthly variables like utility costs.
For all these potential expenses, cheaper options likely exist, along with opportunities to make cuts. So, dont overlook them.
4. Unseen or hidden costs
You may have a solid expense plan worked out, but there are some expenses you probably havent prepared for -- and they generally arent lumped into your regular expenses. For example, if your business runs into emergency repair needs, that event could instantly demand all the revenue youve made for the month.
If you arent adequately preparing for taxes or insurance costs, meanwhile, those could end up burning you, too. All it takes is a few unplanned expenses to wreck your profitability model.
5. Fierce competition
Its possible that your expenses and prices are just fine, but youre facing competition too tough to keep up with. For example, if your competitors have products similarly priced to yours but objectively better, you wont sell enough to say alive.
So, find a way to differentiate yourself from the competition, and one-up them in at least one key area, whether that be price, quality or experience.
6. A lack of market awareness
You may also be suffering from a lack of market awareness; if your product is at an ideal price for both you and your customers, you still might not generate a profit if no one knows it exists. Your greatest tools to overcome this obstacle are marketing and advertising; they cost a bit up-front, but are well worth the investment if you plan them properly.
7. Inconsistency
Theres a chance that you have a perfect way to make your business profitable -- but youre executing too inconsistently for your business to reap the rewards. For example, your expenses may swing enormously from month to month, or your sales team might perform unpredictably based on individual variables.
Iron out these inconsistencies as soon as you can track them down. It may be tough to pinpoint exactly where your strategy is deviating, but its an important step if you want your profit to remain reliable.
These are some, but not all of the problems that could be stopping your business from generating a sustainable profit. You may be facing the problem from multiple angles, or you could be dealing with something else entirely, such as targeting the wrong market or failing to grow quickly enough.
Related: Cash flow or profit making! What should startup entrepreneur worry about?
If youre currently struggling to generate a profit for your business, or if you cant work the details out in your business plan, take these problems one step at a time until you isolate the cause of the problem. Theres always a solution -- or at least an improvement -- to be had.
Related:
7 Problems Preventing Your Business From Being Profitable
Inside the Mind of the Entrepreneur
The Money Metric You Might Not Know -- But Should
Copyright 2016 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved
45-day schedule in Bulgaria for Ajith's next
Tamil Nadu,Cinema/Showbiz,Southern Cinema, Mon, 14 Nov 2016 IANS
Chennai, Nov 14 (IANS) The makers of Ajith Kumar's next yet-untitled Tamil project, which also stars Kajal Aggarwal and Akshara Haasan in the lead, have left for Bulgaria to work on an over a month-long schedule.
"The team left for Bulgaria over the weekend. This is the final schedule of the film and it will last for about 45 days. They will be shooting some major action episodes apart from regular scenes," a source from the film's unit told IANS.
Actor Vivek Oberoi, who plays the antagonist in the film, will join the sets in Bulgaria.
"Key portions between Ajith and Vivek will be shot in this schedule and it involves two action stretches," the source added.
Being directed by Siva, the film has music by Anirudh Ravichander and it is produced by Satyajothi Films.
--IANS
hp/rb/vm
Chinese businesses have increased their efforts to explore the Latin American Internet market in recent years. Industry insiders believe that a potential increase in consumers brought by Latin Americas population dividend, the growing coverage of networks, the popularization of social media, as well as its lagging technological innovation offers Chinese enterprises golden opportunities.
The GSMA, the international association of mobile service providers, estimated that the number of people across Latin America using their mobile devices to access the Internet is set to grow by 50 percent by the end of the decade.
China proposed a new mode of production capacity cooperation dubbed "three times three" last May, calling on China and Latin America to construct three passages for logistics, electric power and information, launch sound interaction among the three entities of the private sector, society and the government, as well as expand three financing channels including funding, credit loans and insurance.
Collaboration on information technology is rightly part of this mode. With advanced telecommunication equipment, search engine technologies and e-commerce management systems, Chinese enterprises have advantages in the booming Internet economy on the Latin American continent by engaging in the latters information industry and network construction.
Global Web Index data showed that with 110 million smart phone users as well as a potential market value of 250 billion dollars, Brazil is now the worlds second fastest growing Internet market. In addition, Brazilians top the list for the amount of time spent using mobile Internet.
Chinas Internet companies have stretched their coverage to this huge market. The Internet search provider Baidu, for instance, launched the Portuguese version of it search engine in Brazil in 2014, while internet tycoon Tencent has tested the waters there with messaging service WeChat. Qihoo 360, another industry leader, also invested a cloud-based online security company in this Latin American country and launched a series of antivirus products.
Huawei, Chinese telecommunication giant, has already grown into a big partner of major local operators after it accessed to Brazilian market as early as 1996. The firm is now the biggest network equipment provider in Brazil with a 40-plus-percent market share.
Besides the network construction, Chinese companies also extended their share in cross-border e-commerce industry. AliExpress, the global sales platform of Alibaba, is an example.
According to data released by Brazilian Institute of Public Opinion and Statistics (IBOPE), AliExpress has grown into the biggest global sales platform in Brazil, with its orders well ahead of second-placed B2W group, an old local brand.
Amanda, a junior studying in Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, told the Peoples Daily that she bought cosmetics and accessories via AliExpress as the latter provides cost-effective products. El Pais, a mainstream newspaper in Argentina, even commented that about 80 percent of the online shopping packages delivered by local postal offices are from China.
Back in 2014, by applying Chinese technology, experience and capital, Baidu founded Latin Americas first business community for online-to-offline (O2O) companies, the Brazil O2O Association by teaming up with over 80 local business leaders.
This September, the internet search giant set up Brazils first internet investment fund called Easterly Ventures. The Sao Paulo-headquartered venture, as the first investment fund established by a Chinese internet company in Brazil, will provide and fund technology for local traffic and industry expertise for Brazilian startups.
We hope to learn from Chinas successful experience as e-commerce is a new thing for many Latin American countries, said Marcos Pueyrredon, president of the Latin American Institute for Electronic Commerce.
Russia warplane crashes into Mediterranean: Officials
Russian Federation,Crime/Disaster/Accident, Tue, 15 Nov 2016 IANS
Moscow, Nov 15 (IANS) A Russian warplane has crashed into the Mediterranean after takeoff from the Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier off the coast of Syria, the Russian defence ministry said on Monday.
The pilot of the MiG-29 jet is said to have ejected, The Guardian reported.
Combat Aircraft magazine, which first reported the crash, said he was picked up by a Russian navy helicopter but there was no confirmation of his condition. It said wreckage of the aircraft was being also being recovered from the site.
The planes was one of four MiG-29 fighter-bombers on the Kuznetsov and if it is confirmed lost, it would detract from what was intended to be a display of Russian naval might in the Mediterranean in support of the Russian war effort in Syria.
There are also about a dozen Su-33 fighters on board that have recently been upgraded so they can carry out better-targeted strikes on targets on the ground.
According to Thomas Newdick of Combat Aircraft, some of those Su-33 planes carried out airstrikes on Monday, marking the first time aircraft from the Kuznetsov had taken part in bombing in Syria, and the first time the Kuznetsov has been in combat since its launch more than 30 years ago.
Military officials briefed the Moscow press on the day of the US presidential election that a large-scale air offensive was imminent using cruise missiles, carrier and land based aircraft, but that onslaught never materialised. Diplomats in Washington suggested the announcement may have been intended to unsettle Americans as they went out to vote.
The loss of the plane would be a serious one for the Russia military.
The newly built MiG-29KUBR version is one of Russia's most modern warplanes, and they are in short supply, as are pilots to fly them. Michael Kofman, of the Washington-based Center for Naval Analyses, said that by his estimate, the Kuznetsov now only has three MiG-29s left and only three pilots capable of flying them.
"This is bad publicity for what was supposed to be a show of capability," Kofman said. "As many Russians feared, this could become an embarrassment."
--IANS
pgh/
- Revenue decrease result of strategic decision to slow pace of growth and focus on working capital management -
TORONTO, Nov. 14, 2016 /CNW/ - Boyuan Construction Group, Inc. (TSX: BOY, BOY.DB.A) ("Boyuan" or the "Company"), a growing construction company in China of commercial, residential and municipal infrastructure projects, today reported its financial results for the three-month period ended September 30, 2016. All figures are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated.
Selected Quarterly Financial Highlights
In thousands except share and % data Q1'17 Q1'16 Change Revenue $29,714 $60,869 (51.2%) Gross profit $2,488 $5,555 (55.2%) Gross profit margin 8.4% 9.1%
EBITDA1 $3,130 $6,498 (51.8%) Net income $0.5 $2.2 (77.2%) Earnings per share - diluted $0.02 $0.08
September 30, 2016 June 30, 2016
Total Assets $240,262 $245,333 (2.1%) Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash $17.2 $16.0 7.5%
"This quarter's financial results reflect our strategic decision over the past year to focus on strengthening our working capital position and liquidity through managing our accounts receivable and unbilled revenue, rather than initiating a large number of capital intensive new projects over the period," said Mr. Cai Liang Shou, Chairman of Boyuan Construction Group. "We believe that this prudent approach best enabled the Company to navigate the recent near-term challenges of the real estate market in China and position ourselves for an uptick in the market in the future."
Q1'17 Financial Results
Revenue of $29.7 million , down 51.2% from $60.7 million for Q1'16
, down 51.2% from for Q1'16 EBITDA of $3.1 million , down 51.8% from $6.5 million in Q1'16
, down 51.8% from in Q1'16 Net income of $0.5 million , or $0.02 per diluted share, down from $2.2 million , or $0.08 per diluted share, for Q1'16
Q1'17 Operational Highlights
The Company initiated two new residential construction projects and one new commercial construction project, with combined contract values of $50.2 million .
Highlights Subsequent to Quarter's End
The Company initiated one new residential construction project and one new commercial construction project, with combined contract values of $39.2 million .
. The Company successfully completed the retraction of $1.5 million of its 11.5% unsecured convertible debentures due October 31, 2018 .
Review of Financial Results
Revenue for the first quarter ended September, 2016 was $29.7 million, a decrease of $31.0 million or 51.2% from the corresponding period last year. Revenue is recognized on the percentage-of-completion method. This decrease in revenue is primarily attributable to the completion or substantial completion (greater than 95%) of three projects that recorded combined revenue of $25.4 million in Q1'16.
Cost of construction for Q1'17 was $27.2 million, down 50.8% from $55.3 million for Q1'16. Cost of construction includes all direct material, labor, subcontract and other related costs, such as equipment repairs. The two major components of the cost of construction are direct material and labour costs. Direct material costs were $18.8 million and labor costs were $7.5 million in this quarter. In comparison, direct material costs and labor costs were $38.1 million and $15.1 million respectively in the same quarter last year.
Gross profit for Q1'17 was $2.5 million, representing a margin of 8.4% on revenue. Gross profit for Q1'16 was $5.6 million, representing a margin of 9.1% on revenue. Gross profit margins were under slight pressure due to the current real estate market environment in China, with longer development cycles eroding some of the Company's normal margins.
G&A expenses were $1.50 million in Q1'17 compared to $1.32 million in Q1'16. The small increase in Q1'17 is due to normal fluctuations in expenditures.
Other income was $1.49 million in Q1'17, compared to $1.29 million in Q1'16. The major component of other income is the accretion income from the discount on non-current accounts receivable and unbilled revenue.
Interest expense was $1.65 million in Q1'17, compared to $1.81 million in the same period last year. The interest saved from the redemption of the convertible debentures in October 2015 was the main cause of the decrease in interest expense.
After-tax net income for Q1'17 was $0.5 million, or $0.02 per fully diluted share, compared to $2.2 million, or $0.08 per fully diluted share for Q1'16. The lower net income for this period was mainly a result of decreased revenue as a result of the decreased volume of new projects taken up in the last year.
The Company had working capital of $33.6 million, including cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash of $17.2 million for the period ended September 30, 2016. This compares to $37.5 million and $16.0 million, respectively, at June 30, 2016.
Outlook
"While near-term challenges in the Chinese real estate market have muted Boyuan's historical pace of growth, a longer view provides several reasons for optimism. According to economists at HSBC, China's monetary conditions are the loosest since 2011, and loose monetary policy strongly correlates to robustness in the physical property market.2 Boyuan's reputation for excellence in our core markets has won us a robust list of projects from which we are carefully selecting to initiate new projects to grow the Company moving forward," added Mr. Shou.
Boyuan's consolidated statements for the three-month period ended September 30, 2016 and related management's discussion and analysis (MD&A) will be filed with securities regulatory authorities within applicable timelines and will be available via SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
Conference Call Notice
The Company will hold a conference call to discuss its third quarter 2016 financial results on Tuesday, November 15, 2016 at 9:30 A.M. (ET). Mr. Paul Law, Boyuan's Chief Financial Officer, will host the call.
All interested parties can join the call by dialing 647-427-7450 or 1-888-231-8191. Please dial in 15 minutes prior to the call to secure a line.
The conference call will be archived for replay until Tuesday, November 22, 2016 at midnight. To access the archived conference call, please dial 1-855-859-2056 or 416-849-0833 and enter the reservation number 14693561.
About Boyuan Construction Group, Inc.
Based in Jiaxing City, China, Boyuan Construction Group, Inc. is in the business of commercial building and residential construction, municipal infrastructure and engineering projects. In its last three fiscal years ending June 30, 2016, Boyuan completed 41 projects for a number of private and public sector clients. Boyuan's current project backlog includes residential, commercial, industrial and mixed-use developments. From its operating bases in Zhejiang Province and in Hainan Province, Boyuan focuses on construction projects in China's fast-growing regions of the Yangtze River Delta and the Hainan Province. For more information visit www.boyuangroup.com.
Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information:
Certain information contained in this press release constitutes forward-looking information, which is information relating to future events or the Company's future performance and which is inherently uncertain. All information other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "budget", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "forecast", "may", "will", "project", "predict", "potential", "targeting", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe" and similar words or phrases (including negative variations) suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook. Forward-looking information contained in this press release includes, but is not limited to, management's expectation to comply with the Alternative Information Guidelines. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. The Company believes the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information contained in this press release. Some of the risks and other factors which could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information contained in this press release include, but are not limited to: risk of a general cease trade order bing issued, risk of risk of macro-economy cycle, risk from competition, risk from insufficient marketing to secure new projects, risk in obtaining additional financing, risk involving permits and licences, reliance on key management member, risk from supply of raw materials, risk of financial leverage, risk of bad debts in accounts receivables, risk involved in real estate development, foreign exchange fluctuations, political and economic conditions in China and other risks included in the Company's AIF for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2015 and in the Company's public disclosure documents filed with certain Canadian securities regulatory authorities and available at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking information contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law.
-----------------------
1 EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. EBITDA is not a defined performance measure under IFRS. 2 Kwok, Michelle, and Albert Tam. China Real Estate. HSBC Global Research, November 2, 2016.
SOURCE Boyuan Construction Group, Inc.
For further information: Contacts: Boyuan Construction Group, Inc. : Mr. Paul Law, CFO, +(852) 9329 5088, [email protected]; NATIONAL Equicom: Mr. Keith Richards, (416) 848-1599, [email protected]
MARRAKECH, Morocco, Nov. 14, 2016 /CNW/ - Climate change is a global problem that requires a global solution. Canada is committed to reducing climate-harming pollutants at home and around the world. Today, Canada's Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Catherine McKenna, announced that Canada will contribute $14 million to reduce short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs), like methane, through partnerships with Mexico and Chile. This collaborative work will create a cleaner environment for everyone, from Mexicans and Chileans to Canadians and their families, who share this global environment.
This investment will help countries adopt clean technologies and employ Canadian expertise to reduce methane emissions. In Mexico's oil and gas sector, we will work towards reducing gas flaring from plant operations, which is the burning of natural gas that cannot be processed. Gas flaring is responsible for harmful emissions causing climate change and air pollution. In Chile, we will capture methane that escapes decomposing garbage at landfill sites and divert organic matter from the waste through composting.
SLCPs do not last as long in the atmosphere as carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, but they are much more powerful and very harmful to the climate. Reducing SLCPs is essential to address climate change in the short term. These pollutants also cause respiratory problems and other negative health effects so, by reducing them, we are protecting the health of families and communities everywhere.
Canada's action on climate change helps communities in Canada and around the world in tangible and meaningful ways, like improving air quality and providing more access to economic opportunities. Addressing climate change is making the world a better place. This investment is part of Canada's commitment of $2.65 billion over the next five years to help countries and communities around the world pollute less, be better equipped to resist the effects of climate change, and make a positive contribution to a global clean economy.
Quotes
"Climate change is the challenge of our time, and we need to work in collaboration with other countries to rise to this challenge. Canada is proud to team up with Mexico and Chile to take action on short-lived climate pollutants by investing in clean technologies. These pollutants are powerful greenhouse gases that also have negative effects on people's health. This investment will help grow a global clean economy and will benefit Mexicans, Chileans, and Canadians as it will make the air cleaner, protect our health, and slow warming on the planet we all share and for which we all care."
Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change
"For Mexico, mitigation of SLCP is fundamental for reaching climate-change goals as well as the SDGs. In that endeavor, the collaboration with Canada to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector will promote clean technology deployment and MRV systems to track progress in reducing these emissions. Furthermore, the reduction of SLCP will bring health and ecosystem co-benefits for our communities and environment, while protecting the planet's climate."
Maria Amparo Martinez Arroyo, Director General of the National Institute of Ecology and Climate Change of Mexico
"The Paris Agreement is official and in force since November 4, much earlier than expected. It is certainly great news for the international climate-change agenda. It is the responsibility of the countries to now move forward towards its implementation, taking the necessary measures to fulfill their commitments.
"We are very pleased to continue our cooperation on the environmental agenda with the Government of Canada. In this opportunity, we are working together for reducing short-lived pollutants through waste management projects. Tackling this kind of pollutant is one of the elements in our international commitment under the Paris Agreement. In addition, waste management is one of the priorities of our local environmental agenda.
"We appreciate the interest and support of the Government of Canada for the development of waste-management projects in our country. As part of this joint effort, Chile also expects to share its experience with other countries that have high potential for mitigation in this area. This approach based on shared efforts is a useful and necessary mechanism for effective reduction of emissions globally."
Pablo Badenier, Minister of the Environment, Chile
Quick facts
Methane emitted through oil and gas operations is 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, over a 20-year period, and black carbon from these activities accelerates warming in the Arctic.
Landfills are estimated to be the third largest source of global methane emissions attributable to human activity.
Related products
Prime Minister announces investment in global climate change action
Canada pledges $35 million to combat short-lived climate pollutants
Environment and Climate Change Canada's Twitter page
Environment and Natural Resources in Canada's Facebook page
SOURCE Environment and Climate Change Canada
For further information: Contacts : Caitlin Workman, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, 819-938-9436; Media Relations, Environment and Climate Change Canada, 819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll free),
TORONTO, Nov. 14, 2016 /CNW/ - Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) today congratulated the Government of Ontario for moving forward with the creation of a new financial services regulator. In its 2016 Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review, the government announced it would be introducing legislation to establish the initial parameters of the new Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA).
"Canada's insurers are pleased that the government is reforming the way Ontario regulates insurance," said Kim Donaldson, Vice-President, Ontario, IBC. "Today's Economic Outlook outlines a process for establishing a world-class insurance regulator that can adapt to changing consumer needs and industry trends."
Today's announcement follows the recommendations from the province's expert advisory panel to modernize the regulation of financial services in Ontario. The government has committed, once enabling legislation is in place, to develop a detailed implementation plan and to appoint FSRA's initial board of directors.
IBC encourages the government to quickly introduce enabling legislation, and to work closely with the property and casualty insurance industry as it shapes the new regulator's mandate. An area of importance for automobile insurers will be the ability of the new regulator to modernize Ontario's rate regulation process; the current system stifles innovation and prevents the benefits of a competitive market from being fully realized.
"We look forward to learning the details of this new legislation," added Donaldson. "IBC will continue to work with the government to better serve the consumers of this province."
About Insurance Bureau of Canada
Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up 90% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. For more than 50 years, IBC has worked with governments across the country to help make affordable home, auto and business insurance available for all Canadians. IBC supports the vision of consumers and governments trusting, valuing and supporting the private P&C insurance industry. It champions key issues and helps educate consumers on how best to protect their homes, cars, businesses and properties.
P&C insurance touches the lives of nearly every Canadian and plays a critical role in keeping businesses safe and the Canadian economy strong. It employs more than 120,000 Canadians, pays $8.2 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $49 billion.
For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow IBC on Twitter @InsuranceBureau and @IBC_Ontario or like us on Facebook. If you have a question about home, auto or business insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC.
If you require more information, IBC spokespeople are available to discuss the details in this media release.
SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada
For further information: To schedule an interview, please contact: Andrew McGrath, Manager, Media Relations, Insurance Bureau of Canada, 416-362-2031 ext. 4312, [email protected]
TORONTO, Nov. 14, 2016 /CNW/ -
What: TB Conference 2016 TB Elimination: Back to Basics
When: 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, November 15, 2016 (Opening Plenary)
Where: Churchill Ballroom, Chelsea Hotel, 33 Gerrard St. W, Toronto
Who: Dr. Greg Taylor, Public Health Agency of Canada
George Habib, The Lung Association - Ontario
Dr. Richard Long, University of Alberta
Although the incidence of tuberculosis has steadily declined, this infectious lung disease continues to be a serious public health concern in Canada.
There is a large pool of latent TB cases among the elderly, people living with HIV, and those who come from or travel to regions where tuberculosis is endemic. In Ontario, there are reports of multiple cases of TB with resistance to virtually all drugs, posing unique challenges to the public health management of the disease.
At the 2016 TB Conference, in Toronto November 15-16, more than 200 experts from across Canada will hear about the latest innovations in TB diagnosis and care, including current strategies for diagnosing and managing latent infection in diverse communities.
Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Gregory Taylor, will open the conference with an overview of Canada's ongoing efforts to eliminate TB.
SOURCE The Ontario Lung Association
For further information: Ali Zampano, The Lung Association - Ontario, [email protected], W: 416-864-9911 ext. 295
OTTAWA, Nov. 14, 2016 /CNW/ - Five international aid experts will discuss how women's empowerment is critically linked with climate change adaptation and good development policies. Experts from Oxfam Quebec, CARE Canada, Farm Radio International, the University of Saskatchewan and World Animal Protection will make up the panel. Kelsey Johnson will moderate the panel graciously hosted by iPolitics. A panel discussion will be followed by a Q&A open to the public and media. Spokespersons will be available for interviews following the end of the panel.
DATE:
Tuesday, November 15, 2016 TIME:
5:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m.(approx.) LOCATION:
iPolitics
17 York Street, #201
Room 201
SOURCE World Animal Protection
For further information: General enquiries, Paul Hagerman, Director - Public Policy, Canadian Foodgrains Bank, (204) 509-2204, [email protected]; Media enquiries, Scott Cantin, Global Head of Disaster Communications, World Animal Protection, (647) 641-8165, [email protected]
MARRAKECH, MOROCCO, Nov. 14, 2016 /CNW/ - Canada is moving to take serious action on climate change, and Canadians will benefit from new opportunities in the emerging clean-growth economy.
The Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Catherine McKenna, co-chaired the Climate and Clean Air Coalition's (CCAC's) High-Level Assembly and issued the following quotes and photo at the event:
Quotes
"We have seen great things happen this year in the effort to reduce short-lived climate pollutants. Canada and its North American partners agreed to drive down black carbonor sootemissions that come from burning fossil fuels and to reduce potent methane emissions from the oil and gas sector, by up to 45 percent by 2025a reduction equivalent to 3.8- to 4.2-million passenger vehicles not being driven in a given year. More recently, we joined the world in agreeing to phase down climate-warming hydrofluorocarbons, such as those used as refrigerants. Today, we took another important step in reducing methane emissions from oil and gas operations and promoting cleaner fuels and vehicles internationally.
"Taking action on these harmful pollutants will benefit Canadians and communities. Finding solutions to reduce short-lived climate pollutants will also foster innovation and create good jobs in a modern, clean, global economy."
Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change
"I am proud to announce investments with Chile and Mexico to help reduce short-lived climate pollutants. In Canada and around the world, we are adding up wins for the climate and cleaner air."
Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change
Quick facts
Scientists agree that short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) such as black carbon, methane, ozone, and some hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are responsible for an important portion of the current rate of global warming.
Sustained reductions of SLCPs are critical to meeting the Paris Agreement goal of holding global temperature increase to well below 2 C and of pursuing efforts towards 1.5 C.
Canada , Bangladesh , Mexico , Ghana , the United States , Sweden , and the United Nations Environment Programme established the Climate and Clean Air Coalition, in February 2012 . Canada is currently serving as the Coalition co-chair with Chile , and it is the largest contributor to the Coalition's Trust Fund, with a contribution of Can$23 million to date.
Associated links
October 15, 2016 Canada and the World agree to phase down HFCs
Canada's participation at COP22
Environment and Climate Change Canada's Twitter page
Environment and Natural Resources in Canada's Facebook page
SOURCE Environment and Climate Change Canada
Image with caption: "From left to right: Helena Molin Valdes (Head, CCAC Secretariat), Dr. Jonathan Pershing (U.S. Special Envoy for Climate Change), Rita Cerutti (Canadian Co-chair of the Climate and Clean Air Coalition), the Honourable Catherine McKenna (Canadas Minister of Environment and Climate Change), and Mr. Pablo Badenier (Minister of Environment from Chile). (CNW Group/Environment and Climate Change Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20161114_C1686_PHOTO_EN_818064.jpg
For further information: Caitlin Workman, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, 819-938-9436; Media Relations, Environment and Climate Change Canada, 819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll free)
On Nov. 12, an exhibition of Chinas opera figures paintings was opened in Shanghai. The exhibition remembers the 400th anniversary of the death of Chinese author Tang Xianzu.
Tang Xianzu (1550-1616), a celebrated playwright, whom fans call "China's William Shakespeare".
Tang, who lived in the same era as William Shakespeare, was an outstanding writer during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644AD). His masterpieces are collectively called Four Dreams, since the protagonists respective dreamlands are key to the plots of each work.
"The Peony Pavilion," one of the Four Dreams and also Tang's most famous work, is renowned worldwide. It is also recognized for its ideological emancipation and anti-feudalism, representing Romanticism in Chinese literature. The work is traditionally performed onstage in the style of Kun opera.
Xie Chunyan, both an artist and chairman of Chinas Opera Figure Painting Institute, explained that Tang pursued a romantic, spiritual realm, and criticized feudal society. These are the sentiments in Tangs Four Dreams. The literary treasures that Tang left for future generations should be passed down and illustrated in various forms, including paintings, according to Xie.
The exhibition will remain open until Nov. 27. After its close, the paintings will be displayed in the city of Shaoxing, Zhejiang province from Dec. 2 to 18.
BAGSVRD, Denmark, Nov. 14, 2016 /CNW/ - Today, Novo Nordisk announced a four-year extension of its Changing Diabetes in Children programme which provides access to diabetes care and free insulin to children with type 1 diabetes in developing countries. The expansion sees five new countries join the programme; Cambodia, Ivory Coast, Myanmar, Senegal and Sudan. By 2020, more than 20,000 children over the course of 11 years will have benefited from the programme.
To view the Multimedia News Release, please click:
https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/7962351-novo-nordisk-programme-children-diabetes
Ten years ago, a child in Sub-Saharan Africa diagnosed with type 1 diabetes often had a life expectancy of less than a year[i]. In response, Novo Nordisk established the Changing Diabetes in Children programme to support sustainable quality care and improved diagnosis of the condition. Since the start of the programme in 2009, 13,700 children in nine countries in Africa and South-East Asia have received free human insulin and access to diabetes care.
"The Changing Diabetes in Children programme has been iconic," says Professor Azad Khan, president of the Diabetic Association of Bangladesh. "It has changed the lives of children with type 1 diabetes in Bangladesh. Their survival depends on the supply of insulin as well as education on how to cope with diabetes, and the programme provides all of this."
A large number of children enrolled in the program are experiencing good control and have a chance to lead healthier lives. To date, 108 clinics have been established and more than 7,000 healthcare professionals have been trained in diabetes care.
In addition to providing access to insulin, the Changing Diabetes in Children programme aims to support the development of sustainable healthcare systems. Lars Rebien Srensen, president and CEO of Novo Nordisk, expressed: "The provision of free medicine alone doesn't solve complex healthcare challenges. From the outset of this programme, we have therefore worked closely with local partners to deliver sustainable solutions alongside insulin to improve the lives of children with type 1 diabetes both now and in the future."
About Changing Diabetes in Children
The global partners in the programme are Novo Nordisk, Roche, the International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD) and the World Diabetes Foundation (WDF). In each of the nine already established countries (Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Guinea, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Bangladesh and India), the programme is implemented as a public-private partnership with a group of local partners. The national ministries of health in these countries play a key role to ensure that Changing Diabetes in Children is anchored within the existing healthcare system.
Novo Nordisk is a global healthcare company with more than 90 years of innovation and leadership in diabetes care. This heritage has given us experience and capabilities that also enable us to help people defeat other serious chronic conditions: haemophilia, growth disorders and obesity. Headquartered in Denmark, Novo Nordisk employs approximately 42,600 people in 75 countries and markets its products in more than 180 countries. For more information, visit novonordisk.com, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube
References
i. Beran, Yudkin, Diabetes care in sub-Saharan Africa, 2006 http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0140673606697043
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120911/559804 )
Video: https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/7962351-novo-nordisk-programme-children-diabetes
SOURCE Novo Nordisk
For further information: Media: Charlotte Zarp-Andersson, +45-4442-7603, [email protected]; Ken Inchausti (US), +1-609-786-8316, [email protected]; Investors: Peter Hugreffe Ankersen, +45-3075-9085, [email protected]; Melanie Raouzeos, +45-3075-3479, [email protected]; Hanna Ogren, +45-3075-8519, [email protected]; Anders Mikkelsen, +45-3079-4461, [email protected]; Kasper Veje (US), +1-609-235-8567, [email protected]
TORONTO, Nov. 10, 2016 /CNW/ - Today, the Ontario Science Centre celebrates the first annual International Science Center and Science Museum Day (ISCSMD) in true Canadian fashion by putting a spot light on the weather, more specifically on climate change.
Recently, the Centre announced the results of its first science literacy survey. "Our findings indicated that we as a country can do better in science literacy and encourage lifelong science education," said Catherine Paisley, Vice President of Science Education and Science Experience. "Our survey also informed us that there is a 'climate of confusion' with 40 % of Canadians believing that the science behind climate change was unclear. We invite all Canadians into a dialogue about climate change and its impacts with our Wild Weather exhibition that explores the power and unpredictability of extreme weather allowing visitors to gain a better understanding of the science behind severe weather and its connection to climate change."
Today, with the help of David Phillips, Senior Climatologist, Environment and Climate Change Canada the Ontario Science Centre shined a spotlight on climate change during his 45-minute presentation to Centre visitors.
Climate change is a global issue and to help address it the Ontario Science Centre participated in a global citizen science project this past October. The public was invited to observe and record local cloud coverage using the NASA-developed GLOBE Observer app. "Clouds are highly variable and predicting their future evolution is a major challenge facing today's climate scientists. Human observations of clouds around the world yield valuable data to compare with satellite remote sensing data," added Paisley.
Twenty-nine Science Centres around the world participated in this initiative resulting in a total of 921 observations logged during the focus period from October 1 to 22. "We're extremely pleased to report that the results of this global citizen science project were very favourable; with the help of our visitors, the Centre logged a total of 205 observations. This represents 22 % of the global total," added Paisley.
About International Science Center and Science Museum Day (#ISCSMD)
International Science Center and Science Museum Day is a collaborative effort between three organizations: the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO); the Association of Science and Technology Museums (ASTC); and the International Council of Museums. ISCSMD was established to commemorate the World Science Day for Peace and Development and to celebrate science centres and science museums. It was also established to help generate awareness around the importance of STEAM education science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.
About the Ontario Science Centre
The Ontario Science Centre has welcomed more than 51 million visitors since it opened in 1969, implementing an interactive approach now adopted by science centres around the world. Today, the Science Centre is an international leader in free-choice science learning and a key contributor to Ontario's education and innovation ecosystem, offering lifelong learning through hands-on, engaging experiences. The Ontario Science Centre is an agency of the Government of Ontario funded in part by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. As a publicly assisted organization, the Science Centre relies on generous individuals, corporations and foundations who share a commitment to science and education for additional operating support. For more information about the Ontario Science Centre, please visit www.OntarioScienceCentre.ca.
Social Media Links
Hashtag: #ISCSMD
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/OntarioScienceCentre
Twitter: @OntScienceCtr | #ScienceNow
Instagram: @OntarioScienceCentre
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/user/OntarioScienceCentre
SOURCE Ontario Science Centre
For further information: Media contacts: Anna Relyea, Director, Strategic Communications, 416-696-3273 | c: 416-668-1967, [email protected]; Jefferson Darrell, Media Relations Officer, 416-696-3154, [email protected]; Andrea Mus, Media Relations Officer, 416-696-3191, [email protected]
OTTAWA, Nov. 14, 2016 /CNW/ - The autumn 2016 issue of the Bank of Canada Review, a semi-annual publication featuring articles related to the Canadian economy and to central banking, will be released on Thursday, 17 November 2016.
Time: 10:30 (Eastern Time)
Description: This issue of the Review features the following articles:
Reinventing the Role of Central Banks in Financial Stability
Market Operations and Liquidity Provision at the Bank of Canada
Recent Changes to the Bank of Canada's Emergency Lending Assistance Policy
Commodity Price Supercycles: What Are They and What Lies Ahead?
Structural Reforms and Economic Growth in Emerging-Market Economies
Distribution: The Review will be available at 10:30 (ET) on the Bank's website.
Note: For more information, please contact Media Relations at 613-782-8782 or [email protected].
SOURCE Bank of Canada
For further information: Media Relations at 613-782-8782 or [email protected]
Healthy economic outlooks for Hamilton and Ottawa-Gatineau
OTTAWA, Nov. 14, 2016 /CNW/ - Toronto will remain one of Canada's fastest-growing metro economies this year and next, according to The Conference Board of Canada's Metropolitan Outlook: Autumn 2016. Hamilton's economy is forecast to remain steady over 2016 and 2017, while Ottawa-Gatineau's economy is projected to show modest improvement.
"Toronto and Hamilton's economies are both benefiting from solid advances in manufacturing and in finance, insurance and real estate," said Alan Arcand, Associate Director, Centre for Municipal Studies, The Conference Board of Canada. "Renewed hiring in the federal public service, an active non-residential construction sector, and a bright outlook for tourism are driving economic growth in Ottawa-Gatineau."
Highlights
Toronto's real GDP is expected to expand by 3.4 per cent in 2016 and 2.6 per cent in 2017, making it the second fastest growing metropolitan economy in Canada , behind only Vancouver .
real GDP is expected to expand by 3.4 per cent in 2016 and 2.6 per cent in 2017, making it the second fastest growing metropolitan economy in , behind only . Steady economic growth continues in Hamilton , with real GDP forecast to climb by a steady 2.2 per cent in 2016 and 2 per cent in 2017.
, with real GDP forecast to climb by a steady 2.2 per cent in 2016 and 2 per cent in 2017. OttawaGatineau's economy is expected to grow by 1.7 per cent this year and 2.2 per cent in 2017.
Vancouver will have the fastest-growing metropolitan economy this year and next, with growth of 4 per cent and 2.8 per cent, respectively.
Toronto
Toronto's economy is forecast to expand by 3.4 per cent this year and by 2.6 per cent in 2017. This year's fastest industry growth is expected to be produced by transportation and warehousing, which continues to benefit from the rising shipping requirements of a strong manufacturing sector. Indeed, the lower Canadian dollar and moderate U.S. demand continue to support activity in export-oriented sectors, such as manufacturing and tourism. Manufacturing output is forecast to expand 4.1 per cent this year, with a further 2 per cent increase on tap for 2017. At the same time, persistent strength in the resale housing market continues to boost output growth in finance, insurance and real estate. Meanwhile, construction activity is set to moderate to still healthy rates over 2016 and 2017, following an exceptional year in 2015. Housing starts are set to dip this year and next, but this will be more than offset by a humming non-residential construction sector. The bright economic outlook will be mirrored in the labour market, with the anticipated creation of a total of 109,000 jobs over 201617.
Hamilton
Hamilton's economy is forecast to expand 2.2 per cent in 2016 and 2 per cent in 2017. A lower Canadian dollar and moderate U.S. demand will help to boost manufacturing output this year and next. In fact, this year's projected advance of 4.1 per cent will be the sector's strongest performance since 2010. The robust manufacturing activity has helped spark a turnaround in Hamilton's transportation and warehousing sector. This sector will receive another boost next year when a new grain terminal opens at the Port of Hamilton. The finance, insurance and real estate sector is also adding to growth, thanks to strong resale and new housing markets. Indeed, housing starts are on pace to increase by double-digits this year, and we expect a further small increase in 2017. Despite the strong residential market, construction output is on track to decline this year. However, the industry is expected to bounce back in 2017. The steady economic gains bode well for the local labour market. Although employment is set to post a meagre gain this year, we expect job growth to accelerate sharply in 2017.
Ottawa-Gatineau
Ottawa-Gatineau's economy has emerged from a period of tepid growth that ran from 2012 to 2014, caused largely by federal government fiscal-belt tightening. In fact, the area's economy is on track to expand by 1.7 per cent this year and by a further 2.2 per cent in 2017. Higher levels of government spending will drive gains in public administration, with output forecast to rise by 1.1 per cent in 2016 and by 1.4 per cent in 2017. Ottawa-Gatineau's services sector will also benefit next year from all of the activity surrounding the country's 150th birthday celebrations. In addition to enhanced versions of regular events like Canada Day, Winterlude and other recurring festivals there will also be many additional events taking place in the region over the next year. Activity surrounding several major construction projects, including Phase 1 of Ottawa's light-rail project, is another strong contributor to growth. Local workers will benefit from the stronger economy: employment is forecast to grow by 0.9 per cent in 2016 and by 1.7 per cent in 2017. This will help push the region's unemployment rate down from 6.6 per cent this year to 6.1 per cent next year, which would be its lowest level since 2009.
Vancouver is expected to boast the fastest-growing metropolitan economy this year and next, among the 13 metro areas covered in this edition of the Metropolitan Outlook. At the other end of the spectrum, the economies of Calgary and Edmonton are expected to contract for a second year in a row in 2016, before rebounding modestly next year.
Join Alan Arcand on November 22, 2016 for a webinar, Beyond Slogans: Comparing Canadian Cities to the World's Best, which describes how five Canadian citiesToronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, Halifaxcompare economically and socially against some of the leading metropolitan areas in the world.
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SOURCE Conference Board of Canada
For further information: Yvonne Squires, Media Relations, The Conference Board of Canada, Tel.: 613- 526-3090 ext. 221, E-mail: [email protected]; or Juline Ranger, Director of Communications, The Conference Board of Canada, Tel.: 613- 526-3090 ext. 431, E-mail: [email protected]
In the NHK television special Owaranai Hito Miyazaki Hayao (The Man Who Is Not Done: Hayao Miyazaki) on Sunday, acclaimed anime director Hayao Miyazaki reported that he wants to return to making an anime feature film, after retiring from directing feature films three years ago. He has been working on Kemushi no Boro (Boro the Caterpillar), a planned CG short for the Ghibli Museum.
However, the special revealed that Miyazaki was not satisfied with the CG project as a short, and he presented a project proposal for a feature-length film this past August. He also noted that if a feature would take him five years to make, he would be 80 years old at the end. In the schedule listed in his proposal, Miyazaki suggested that the film could be done by 2019, before the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. Ghibli producer Toshio Suzuki commented that Miyazaki will draw storyboards until he dies, and another staffer dryly noted that this would make the movie a huge hit.
Despite not officially receiving a green-light for the feature film, Miyazaki decided to start animation work on the project anyway. He plans on creating storyboards for about 100 cuts of footage.
In spite of his earlier retirement announcements, Miyazaki confirmed that he will continue animating shorts for the Studio Ghibli Museum in Tokyo. The 12-minute Kemushi no Boro short will not be completed for about another year and will be screened exclusively at Ghibli Museum. Miyazaki planned the story for almost 20 years and describes the short as a story of a tiny, hairy caterpillar, so tiny that it may be easily squished between your fingers.
Some of the prior Miyazaki work
A container is loaded onto the COSCO Wellington cargo vessel in Gwadar, Pakistan, on Nov. 13, 2016. Gwadar port marked its first export of a large number of containers to overseas destinations, showing that the port has restored the designed handling capacity. (Xinhua/Liu Tian)
GWADAR, Pakistan, Nov. 13 -- Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Sun Weidong said here Sunday that the concept of "one corridor with multiple passages" under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has been realized as the first bilateral joint trade convoy reached Gwadar port from China's Kashgar.
Addressing a ceremony celebrating the arrival of the co-organized trade convoy, Sun said this is the first time that a trade convoy successfully passed through the western part of Pakistan from the north to the south. "It proves the connectivity of local roads, and realization of the concept of 'one corridor with multiple passages'," said the ambassador.
He added that the trade convoy is the best reflection of the spirits of mutual consultation, joint construction, mutual benefits and win-win cooperation, and the spirits will serve as the solid basis for the future construction of the CPEC.
Sun also commented that the CPEC has entered into full implementation with remarkable progress as 16 early harvest projects are under construction and tens of thousands of new jobs have been created for local people.
Meanwhile, with the loading of the last container onto the COSCO Wellington cargo vessel, Gwadar port also marked its first export of a large number of containers to overseas destinations, showing that the port has restored the designed handling capacity.
For his part, Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said that the CPEC is destined to transform the entire country and open up a world of possibilities for not just Pakistan but also Central Asian states and the rest of Asia.
He said that China-proposed Belt and Road initiative matches Pakistan's "Vision 2025" and the two projects will enhance connectivity among regional countries and provide opportunities for shared development.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NSC) has warned members of the public against falling to the antics of fraudsters who post fake auction adver...
The Nigeria Customs Service (NSC) has warned members of the public against falling to the antics of fraudsters who post fake auction advertisements purportedly by the service in the social media.Mr Godwin Andishu , Public Relations Officer, Tin Can Island Port 2 Customs Command, Ijora, gave the warning in an interview in Lagos on Monday.He said the warning became imperative because of the increasing complaints by Nigerians who had been duped by some unscrupulous elements through such advertisements.Andishu explained that it was not the practice of customs to place auction advertisements of abandoned vehicles in its custody in the social media, urging the public to disregard such posts in their own interest. We wish to tell the general public that those advertisements on social media purportedly by us calling for people to send money to purchase abandoned vehicles in our custody are misleading.We do not auction or sell vehicles online; those who are posing as customs officers are fraudsters who are out to defraud Nigerians of their hard-earned money.Nigerians should disregard such advertisements as the service only advertises items to be auctioned on its official website, detailing the procedures to follow by members of the public.The NSC does not operate any private account and no personnel of the service are authorized to collect money on its behalf into any account.The fraudsters are all over the place using the name of the customs to perpetrate their nefarious acts. People should act wisely by ignoring them, he said.Andishu said the service had not had any auction since August 2015 on the directive of the Comptroller-General, Col. Hammed Ali. He added that the forensic unit of the service had been consistently tasked to fish out these dishonest elements and make them face the wrath of the law.The spokesman said the unit had recently arrested 12 of such fraudsters and they were being investigated for appropriate actions.Andishu also warned job seekers against falling to the antics of those who asked them for money for recruitment into the service, saying the service had no recruitment agent.We are a responsible organisation; we do not ask for money for employment, he said.
Governor Nyesom Wike is to be blamed for the failure to pay Rivers State civil servants, pensioners and contractors, the State Chapter of ...
Governor Nyesom Wike is to be blamed for the failure to pay Rivers State civil servants, pensioners and contractors, the State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has said. The party in a statement signed by the State Chairman, Dr. Davies Ibiamu Ikanya, said it would be wrong to lay the blame at the doorstep of President Muhammadu Buhari and the APC-led Federal Government.We as a political party truly sympathise with Rivers civil servants, pensioners and contractors over their current travails. However, we wish to disagree with insinuations in some quarters in the state that President Muhammadu Buhari and the APC-led Federal Government are responsible for this unfortunate situation. The truth is that Governor Wike and his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are solely responsible for the woes of Rivers workers, retires and contractors, by refusing to pay them for the past eight months, Rivers APC said in the statement issued on Monday in the state capital, Port Harcourt.The statement noted that Rivers State presently collects the highest revenue from the Federation Account each month. Apart from this, Rivers generates the highest Internal Revenue after Lagos and Kano states. In addition, Wike has borrowed a whopping sum of N150 million since he assumed office on May 29, last year without anything tangible as an achievement to show for all these funds so far collected, Rivers APC said.The party lamented: Sadly, Wike has squandered all these funds on things that have little or nothing to do with the good of Rivers State and its people. Rather than to pay civil servants, pensioners andcontractors, he has chosen to waste scarce resources on hosting all manner of conferences, sponsoring PDP candidates running for election in other states; hosting failed PDP conventions; promotion ofbloodbath, insecurity and associated evils in Rivers State and bribing people everywhere. He prefers spending the money he should use to pay salaries and uplift the lives of Rivers state people and prefers to flex muscles with Abuja in his bid to be seen as the PDP leader in thecountry.Rivers APC advised the people of the state to stop suffering in silence but to continuously demand good governance from the ill-prepared Wike administration and to hold it fully responsible forthe monumental suffering which he has inflicted on the people of the state since he bulldozed his way into the Government House. The rerun election coming up on 10th December, 2016 is an appropriateopportunity for the Rivers State people to express their anger on this misfortune and ill-prepared administration of Chief Nyesom Wike by voting against PDP Candidates.
Former spokesperson of ex- President Goodluck Jonathans campaign organisation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode has been released from detention at...
Former spokesperson of ex- President Goodluck Jonathans campaign organisation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode has been released from detention at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC cell and Kuje prison after spending twenty-four days in these places.Fani-Kayode who was released Monday said he gave thanks to God and Nigerians who were with him during the travail.A statement in Abuja Monday by his Media Advisor, Jude Ndukwe read thus, After 24 days in detention at the EFCC and Kuje prison and after meeting all the conditions of bail that was granted to him by the Federal High Court in Abuja, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode has been released.He gives thanks to God for everything and he has asked me to convey his heartfelt appreciation and love to all those that prayed for and encouraged him and his family at this difficult time and indeed throughout this ordeal.He will now focus on getting the medical attention that he needs. He wishes to let all those that have offered him support and that have stood by him throughout this period know that his resolve to help build a better Nigeria and stand up for righteousness and truth remains strong.No matter what comes our way we trust the Lord and we believe that we shall prevail
Members of the Shiite Islamic Movement of Nigeria on Monday morning clashed with the police in Kano city.
Members of the Shiite Islamic Movement of Nigeria on Monday morning clashed with the police in Kano city.A witness said the clash started around Tamburawa, on the outskirts of Kano city, when the police tried to stop a Shiite protest.Over a dozen people including a police officer are feared killed from the violent clash.The police have since deployed heavily armed mobile police officers to the area while the major Kano- Zaria road is completely blocked.Details later
President Muhammadu Buhari may have bowed to pressure, by agreeing to withdraw the list of 46 non-career ambassadorial nominees recently s...
President Muhammadu Buhari may have bowed to pressure, by agreeing to withdraw the list of 46 non-career ambassadorial nominees recently submitted to the Upper Chamber for screening and confirmation.An insider, who preferred anonymity told newsmen that the president had agreed to withdraw the list because the Senate had made it clear to him that his list was not acceptable to the parliament, as the ears and eyes of the electorate and custodian of democracy.The source also said that the Senate rejected the ambassadorial list because its composition ran foul of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).The president has agreed to withdraw the list in order to work on it and make it acceptable because we have made it clear to him that there is nothing to be done for the Senate to accept that kind of skewed list.Recall that most of the 23 governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have kicked against the nomination.Meanwhile, efforts to get the Senior Special Assistant to the President (SSA) on National Assembly Matters (Senate), Senator Ita Enang, to comment on whether or not President Buhari has accepted to withdraw the list of the non-career ambassadorial nominees failed.
As a group of Kaduna based Nigerians, commenced a national prayer for Gods intervention in the President Muhammadu Buhari led governmen...
As a group of Kaduna based Nigerians, commenced a national prayer for Gods intervention in the President Muhammadu Buhari led government, Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai of Kaduna State has said that, the All Progressives Congress (APC) cannot afford to fail Nigerians.Worried by the state of the nation, the group under the auspices of Abdullah Network Communication said the national prayer was aimed at seeking divine assistance for President Muhammadu Buhari led government in its quest to develop Nigeria.The spiritual exercise which was kick-started in Kaduna with Muslims and Christians praying for the country in two respective sessions is expected to be taken round the six get-political zones of the country, with the next one taking place in Ibadan, South-west Nigeria.Speaking at the event held at Arewa House, Kaduna, Governor El-Rufai who was represented by the Director-General Interfaith Bureau, Engr. Namadi Musa commended the group for its efforts, saying the President Muhammadu Buhari led government is a product of prayers by Nigerians.He however said that, what the government at the Federal and states level requires is continuous prayers to successfully achieve its goal of delivering positive change desired by Nigerians.El-Rufai said, the present government cannot afford to disappoint Nigerians, because prayers of Nigerians and their resolve to do away with bad governance of the previous administration brought the APC government on board. Therefore, it will be more painful if this government fails Nigerians.So, we are aware of the enormous tasks and responsibilities on our shoulders as a government. With your prayers and support, the President Muhammadu Buhari led government will not fail Nigerians, he said.Speaking after the prayer, the leader of group, Comrade Abdulhakeem Adegoke Alawuje said, the resolved to embark on the prayer was informed by the negative state of the nation.He said, his group had observed that, it has almost become a national chorus on the lips of Nigerians that the country needs prayer, but nobody seems to be ready to take the lead and embark on the prayer. That is why we decided to take the lead and pray for our dear country and its leadership.According to Alawuje, many of us in the group belief in the commitment, passion and resolve of President Muhammadu Buhari to move this country to a greater height, and we voted for him, but unfortunately, we have not seen the change we vote for.We are very much aware that, it is not as if our President is not doing anything to fix this country, but the results of his efforts are not visible. That is why we are praying against any form of sabotage that is denying Nigerians the dividends of President Muhammadu Buharis efforts to make life better for the people.We are also praying for the movement that brought President Muhammadu Buhari to power. Though unconfirmed, we are hearing that, there is feud between the President and the National Leader of APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We pray that God intervenes and make them settle their differences, because that alone can have negative impact on the APC and the nation at large.We are not stopping here, we are taking the prayer to every of the six geo-political zones of the country and after Kaduna which we just finished now, our next point of call is Ibadan, Oyo State capital, for South-west Zone, he explained.
Members of the Chinese Presidents delegation went on an illegal spending spree in South Africa to buy ivory and rhino horn and smuggled t...
Members of the Chinese Presidents delegation went on an illegal spending spree in South Africa to buy ivory and rhino horn and smuggled the products back to China, according to revelations to be broadcast by Al Jazeeras Investigative Unit.Filming undercover, the Al Jazeera team recorded a Chinese man, who lives in Pretoria and acted as a tour guide for a large delegation which arrived in December 2015 with President Xi Jinping for a Forum on Co-operation between South Africa and China. He claims members of the delegation, including the Presidents personal bodyguards, insisted he take them to a black-market dealer to buy rhino horn along with chopsticks, stamps and bracelets made from ivory. These are all banned items under the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species, of which China is a signatory.Summing up his disregard for the international ban, he tells Al Jazeera, There are many weirdos in South Africa who are obsessed with animal protection. Thats dangerous and troublesome.In a six-month long investigation, the Al Jazeera team also filmed a Chinese businessman, based in South Africa, describing his dealings in rhino horn and how he escapes prosecution. Everything in Africa is based on money, he says. He names a senior Minister in the South African Government who he claims is a close friend and whos been a guest at his home. He also claims a high level official contact at Beijing airport helps him traffic horn back to China.The businessman put the Al Jazeera team in contact with his own dealer in China. In a secretive meeting, the dealer produced a back rhino horn for sale, with an asking price of over US $60,000.The program also exposes the links between the Vietnamese Embassy in South Africa and a Vietnamese-owned game reserve, north west of Pretoria, which is suspected of trafficking rhino horn and tiger bones.Some of Vietnams top CEOs, most senior politicians and Government Ministers are buying rhino horn, says Julian Rademeyer, an author and analyst with the Global Initiative on Transnational Organized Crime. This is the ultimate status symbol, something to give as gifts and buy influence.Working with the Wildlife Justice Commission, based in The Netherlands, Al Jazeera shows exclusive footage shot secretly in a village near the Vietnamese capitol, Hanoi, which is a hub of wildlife trafficking. Despite WJC handing a massive dossier of evidence to the Vietnamese Government on over fifty dealers in the village selling horn, ivory, tiger skins and lion bones, no official action has been taken to close down the trade.About twenty-five thousand rhinos are left in Africa. Six thousand have been killed in the last decade. The largest concentration of rhino is in South Africa and the Kruger National Park has become the major killing field, with two or three animals shot every night by local poachers.But as the Al Jazeera Investigation shows, the poachers are just the bottom end of a criminal chain extending from the kill in Africa to the sale in Asia, with the trade driven by demand for rhino horn from China and Vietnam.The Al Jazeera program airs in the week that two major international events will highlight how close the rhino is to extinction. In The Hague, the Wildlife Justice Commission is holding a public hearing of its evidence before a Panel of Experts (14-15 November 2016) to expose some of the criminal networks running the trade in Vietnam. And Vietnam is hosting the third international conference on Illegal Wildlife Trade in Hanoi (17-18 November 2016), only twenty miles from the village where the horns of an estimated six hundred dead rhino have ended up for sale.The Poachers Pipeline: Dealers, diplomats and the illegal horn trade premieres on Al Jazeera on Sunday 13 November 2016 at 1200 GMT / 1400 CAT and repeats on Monday, 14 November 2016 at 2000 GMT / 2200 CAT.
Activist lawyer, Femi Falana, on Sunday said the continued detention of former National Security Adviser, NSA, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd) wit...
Activist lawyer, Femi Falana, on Sunday said the continued detention of former National Security Adviser, NSA, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd) without a court order could not be justified under the constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples Right, stressing that Dasuki ought to enjoy bail granted him by several courts.Falana in a statement explained that the recent order by the Economic Community of West African State, ECOWAS Court was to allow the former NSA enjoy his liberty within the context of the bail granted him by the trial courts.The statement reads, With respect to the substantive relief, the ECOWAS Court held that the detention of Col. Dasuki without a court order could not be justified under the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights.Consequently, the court ordered the release of the applicant and payment of N15m damages to him as reparation for the infringement of his human rights.In reporting the judgment of the ECOWAS Court the media conveyed the impression that the federal government has been ordered to release the plaintiff unconditionally from further detention.Contrary to such misleading impression the ECOWAS Court has not discharged and acquitted Col. Dasuki in respect of the criminal charges pending against him in the Nigerian courts.All that the court said was that the suspect be allowed to enjoy his human right to liberty within the context of the bail granted him by the trial courts. In particular, the federal government was berated for treating the orders of its own courts with contempt.Dasuki is currently standing trial for misappropriating over $2.1 billion meant for the procurement of arms for the Military fighting Boko Haram insurgents in the north east.The former NSA who was granted bail in December by Justice Adeniyi Ademola had dragged the Department of State Services, DSS, to ECOWAS Court over his continued detention.ECOWAS court on October 4, had ordered the Federal Government to pay N15m as compensation to Dasuki, over his unlawful arrest and detention.
MOSCOW, Nov. 14 -- Contacts between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President-elect Donald Trump before the latter's inauguration are possible, but one should not put high hopes on a quick change in bilateral relations, the Kremlin was quoted as saying.
"I do not know whether there are going to be any contacts between the president and Trump before the inauguration. I do not know, but certainly this cannot be ruled out," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in an interview with Moskovsky Komsomolets daily, which published the report on Sunday.
He said that Moscow is seeking good relations with Washington and wants to resolve all disputed issues through dialogue, in hopes of mending the bilateral ties which are in "deplorable condition."
Peskov said that both Putin and Trump have a common approach to the necessity of defending national interests, and stress the necessity of normalizing relations between the two countries primarily on the basis of protection of national interests.
But he warned that one should "avoid unrealistic expectations."
Meanwhile, he said, Moscow is going to continue to work with the current administration of U.S. President Barack Obama, who will remain in power in the next two months, on the most burning issues.
"Events in Syria, for example, are actively developing, so that no one can afford a break of two months," said the spokesman.
Eight members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria and one policeman have died during a clash between police and members of the sect in Ka...
Eight members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria and one policeman have died during a clash between police and members of the sect in Kano on Monday.The Commissioner of Police in the state, Alhaji Rabiu Yusuf, disclosed this while briefing newsmen in Kano on Monday.Yusuf said that four policemen and many members of the Shiites were injured during the clash which occurred along Kano-Zaria road in the city.He said, During the clash, we were able to arrest many members of the IMN and we are going to conduct an investigation into the incident.Members of the movement snatched an AK 47 riffle from our men, but we were able to recover it.The commissioner called on the general public to go about their normal business as normalcy has been restored to the city.The spokesperson of the sect in Kano, Malam Ali Kakaki, said members of the group were on a protest demanding the release of their leader, Ibrahim El-Zakzaky.He said, As our members walked toward the Amana City close to Tamburawa Area, some policemen began to shoot in all directions.The casualties on our side involved women and children.(NAN)
A northern youth group, the Arewa Youth Leaders Forum has urged the Nigerian military to ignore false media reports by those they describ...
A northern youth group, the Arewa Youth Leaders Forum has urged the Nigerian military to ignore false media reports by those they described as detractors and unpatriotic elements and focus on the assignment of ridding Nigeria of Boko Haram terrorists.The youths also cautioned the Nigerian media against allowing itself to be used as agents of distraction in the ongoing war against the insurgents.Addressing journalists in Kaduna on Sunday, National President of the group, Abubakar Abubakar urged Nigerians to disregard reports that attempts to portray the military in bad light, saying the sacrifices made by men of the armed forces in safeguarding the country deserves the appreciation of NigeriansHe described recent reports of the federal government hiring mercenaries to execute the ongoing war against Boko Haram terrorists as mischievous and baseless allegations.He said, "those that are out to destroy Nigeria are diversifying their strategies so their seeds of discord must not be allowed to germinate and neither should they be allowed to take root."Further to this, the plot to portray the rest of the country as those that do not appreciate the immeasurable efforts of these patriotic and selfless dedicated men and women in the armed forces, whilst others paid the supreme price with their lives others have denied themselves every material and emotional benefits just to ensure that we defeat all terrorists organisations and their affiliates in Nigeria."Abubakar wondered how the Nigerian military which decimated Boko Haram terrorists without any foreign support would now contemplate hiring mercenaries to fight the degraded components of these terrorist.He said, "could it be that these people are looking for ways to explain away the presence of foreign fighters that they have recruited to swell the ranks of Boko Haram after they were decimated by the military?"In the dark days of the previous administration, the so called mercenaries were doing a lot of talking in the news while terrorists run amok as far south as Lokoja, Kogi state. In the months that the military fought the extremists under President Muhammadu Buhari nothing much was heard of them until this time that authorities are suggesting that the war against terror is entering a new phase after much progress. The so called mercenaries are in our opinion were merely planted to detract from the success recorded by the military".He urged the Federal Government to investigate those making the claims that they have seen mercenaries fighting in the north east since they may actually be trying to cover their tracks after recruiting foreign nationals to fight on the side of the terrorists.He said, "It is nothing but manifestation of the concerted attempts to reverse the gains made by the armed forces. Such stories should therefore be discarded with a wave of the hand without our military services dignifying them with formal responses."He said Nigerians truly support the military and will continue to demonstrate that through regular briefings, marches and prayers for the troops.
There are strong indications that the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) may approve the reduction of 180 cut-off mark for a...
There are strong indications that the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) may approve the reduction of 180 cut-off mark for admission to tertiary institutions.The Registrar and Chief Executive of JAMB, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, who made the disclosure during the 2nd Technical Committee Meeting for 2016 Admissions to Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria, at the Alvan Ikoku College of Education, Owerri, stated that the decision became imperative as a result of the inability of some of the institutions to implement the cut-off mark.According to the Registrar, it was in a meeting of the Board of higher institutions and other Stakeholders that a decision of 180 as the 2016 National cut-off mark was reached.He continued that, however, many Institutions, though part of the decision, have expressed concern on their inability to effect this cut-off mark as they are finding it difficult to fill a reasonable percentage of their quota if the rule is strictly applied as we insist.A large number of institutions, particularly the budding ones, have applied for a waiver to enable them admit candidates who in some instances scored below 180 marks. For some, this may sound unreasonable with the largely false impression that a large percentage of those who score above 180 and are qualified for admission cannot find any placement in our institutions.I think this cry needs attention, otherwise, some of these institutions whether public or privately-owned may soon begin to wobble or even close shops. This will be counter-productive and even defeat the Government Policy of expansion of access to higher education and manpower development.Oloyede therefore added that, as a Board, we have studied the trend of admissions and have come up with a finding that hardly do the institutions collectively fill their quota annually. Indeed, in some cases, up to 50% of approved quota is wasted particularly by upright institutions which do not circumspect the rule. Unfortunately, a large number of institutions flagrantly disregarded the cut-off and many other policies yet they found a way to eventually regularize the illegal admissions through corrupt process.He however noted that the new flexible cut-off will only be applicable to institutions that have exhausted the list of candidates that scored the 180 cut-off mark.As a Board, we have collated the requests from the various Senates and Academic Boards and have made your pleas known to appropriate authorities . Just this morning we received a green light on flexible cut-off mark only for institutions which have exhausted the list of candidates with 180 and above, subject , of course to a minimum acceptable to JAMB and meeting of other pre-requisite, he added.He however assured that the Board would cooperate with the various institutions in carrying out the mandates of their respective Senates and Academic Boards on admission matters, adding that, the Board would not impose candidates on them but, as a referee, would ensure that no applicant is unjustifiably denied the opportunity of access to Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria.In this respect, together, we should be seen in a conspicuous and proven manner that we have the interest of the Nation in mind in carrying out our statutory functions.He warned that no institution, whether Federal or State, will be allowed to continue with admission of students after the November 30 deadline.
Justice Sule Hassan of the Federal High Court in Lagos Monday expressed displeasure with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EF...
Justice Sule Hassan of the Federal High Court in Lagos Monday expressed displeasure with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for re-arresting former Minister of Aviation Chief Femi Fani-Kayode within the court premises.Fani-Kayode was arraigned along with former Minister of State for Finance, Senator Nenadi Usman on a 17-count charge of laundering about N4.6billion. They pleaded not guilty.They were charged along with former Chairman of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) and ex-Chairman of Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State Mr. Yusuf Danjuma and a company said to belong to him, Jointrust Dimentions Nigeria Limited.Justice Hassan granted them bail, but the commissions agents re-arrested Fani-Kayode as he was stepping out of on October 21 when he came for trial.He was subsequently taken to the courts Abuja Division where he was arraigned before Justice John Tsoho on fresh N26million fraud charge.When the case resumed before Justice Hassan in Lagos yesterday, Fani-Kayode was absent. His lawyer, Mr S. I. Balogun, told Justice Hassan that Fani-Kayode was in detention at Kuje Prison having not met his bail conditions.He said: When he was arrested in Lagos, EFCC did not exhibit any arrest warrant. The team leader said he was acting on orders from above.After his arraignment in Abuja, EFCC lied to the judge that it was through intelligence that Fani-Kayode was arrested and that he would jump bail. They never disclosed that he was arrested in court.As at this morning, he has been transferred to Kuje Prison. His family and friends have been making efforts to perfect his bail. We condemn in strong terms the prosecutions style.Danjumas lawyer, Mr S. I. Ameh (SAN), said EFCCs action was an affront on the court.Most times they do these things because they get away with it. They should have produced him in court this morning to show that what they did was not deliberate, he said.EFCCs lawyer Oyedepo Rotimi said the case in Abuja had no connection with the one in Lagos.He said he was not aware that Fani-Kayode was rearrested within the court as he was attending to another case before another judge on the day of the incident.My attention was not drawn to his arrest in court even though I was before another judge, he said.He said Fani-Kayode was arrested with a view to serving him with the charge and presenting him before Justice Tsoho for the purpose of his arraignment.While Rotimi was speaking, the judge cut in and said: He (Fani-Kayode) was arrested in the court premises in flagrant disobedient of the order of this court and kept in detention for 21 days.The judge went on: In a civilised society, are you supposed to keep him in detention after he was granted bail?When Rotimi said he was not part of Fani-Kayodes re-arrest, Justice Hassan said: Instead of defending what you dont know, you should have simply said you were not privy to the facts of the case.It was at this point that Rotimi apologised, saying: In the unlikely event that your Lordship construes his arrest as disobedience to the order granting him bail, we apologise.In a short ruling while adjourning the case, the judge said he would not make any further comments in order prejudice any application Fani-Kayode may file against his re-arrest.Usmans lawyer Chief Ferdinand Orbih (SAN) said his client has a pending application praying the court to transfer the case to Abuja.In summary, were saying the forum is not convenient, he said.In the charge before Justice Hassan, Fani-Kayode and others were accused of indirectly retaining N300million, N400million and N800million, all proceeds of corruption. EFCC said they allegedly committed the offence between last January 8 and last March 25, 2015 ahead of last years general election.In another count, the prosecution alleged that Fani-Kayode directly retained N350million which he ought to have reasonably known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act to wit: stealing.The commission said Fani-Kayode directly used the sum of N170million, among other sums, which he reasonably ought to have known forms part of the proceeds of corruption and stealing.He was also accused of doing cash transaction of N24million with Olubode Oke, said to still be at large, without going through a financial institution.The offence, EFCC said, violates sections 1(a) and 16(d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) (Amendment) Act, 2012 and punishable under Section 16(2)(b).Justice Hassan adjourned until December 12 for trial.
The APC in Ondo State has alleged that the AD Governorship Candidate in the forthcoming election, Cheif Olusola Oke, was mobilising suppor...
The APC in Ondo State has alleged that the AD Governorship Candidate in the forthcoming election, Cheif Olusola Oke, was mobilising supporters from Lagos and Osun states for his campaign flag off.The AD governorship campaign flag off is scheduled for Akure on Monday, November 14.In a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Abayomi Adesanya, APC alleged that Oke had hired over 500 luxury and mini buses to bring in supporters from the neighbouring states to the rally to deceive the people.The Independent National Electoral Commission has fixed November 26 for the Ondo State Governorship Election.Adesanya said, Some of our members have been receiving calls from APC members in Osun and Lagos states informing them of the planned mass mobilisation for the ADs flag off campaign in Akure.We are reliably informed that Bola Ilori, the Director- General of Okes Campaign Organisation, who also doubles as an aide to the Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, has concluded plans with some APC leaders from Lagos and Osun states.The arrangement is to hire over 500 luxurious and BRT buses, among other mini buses, to ferry people from these two states to deceive the general public and the good people of Ondo State.Other desperate tricks being employed by Olusola Oke is generation of fake bulk SMS purportedly from EDO APC sent to people to deceitfully invite them to the flag off campaign.The reality on ground in Ondo State is that the APC Candidate, Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN), is the most popular in the hearts of the good people of the state.The AD candidate is a third force that has no place of reckoning in the present Ondo State politics.The party, therefore, urges the people of the state to disregard whatever crowd seen at the AD flag off campaign as hired.Crucial issue about this election is about evolving a home grown governor for the state; one in tune with the cravings of the people, not one thrown up by political and business merchants outside Ondo State for the promotion of pecuniary interests of Lagos and Osogbo jobbers.The Chairman, Media and Publicity of Olusola Oke Campaign Organisation, Mr. Kolawole Olabisi, advised APC to mind its problems and face its campaign like the AD candidate had been doing.Is it not an irony that a party that specialises in the importation of people from Osun, Ogun, Oyo and Lagos states where the party currently rules is now accusing a party that it described as an orphan?AD will not engage in such underhand methods that the APC is noted for. Our people from the nooks and crannies of Ondo State are the ones on ground now for our flag off rally.Oke is the headache and sole manifesto of the APC in Ondo State and we are aware of their shenanigans and evil plots to stop him from contesting.When these numerous plots are failing one after the other, they can merely heckle us.
The Presidency on Monday raised the alarm over imminent famine in Nigeria from January 2017. According to a statement made available ...
The Presidency on Monday raised the alarm over imminent famine in Nigeria from January 2017.According to a statement made available to journalists, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, raised the alarm in an interview he granted a Kano-based radio station on Monday.Shehu said despite being Africas largest producer of cereals and grains, Nigeria risks famine from early next year following a huge demand in the global market that is targeting the countrys surplus production.The huge demand for our grains in the global market is creating an excellent environment for the mindless export of Nigerian grains across our borders and unless this is curtailed, Nigerian markets will be bereft of food by January next year, he said.The presidential spokesman said the Ministry of Agriculture has advised President Muhammadu Buhari on the need to draw the attention of all Nigerians to the issue which, if not addressed promptly, could lead to a shortage of grains by January.Over the past year, providence has blessed Nigeria with a bountiful harvest of grains, more than enough to feed the country and to export to other countries.At present, there is a high demand for grains from Nigeria, from African countries as distant as Libya and Algeria, and from places as far away as Brazil.However, the Ministry of Agriculture has raised concerns about a massive rate of exportation, which could lead to a shortage of grains in Nigeria by January, he said. .He explained that Nigeria currently enjoys a free market situation.
The Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, has explained why the $30bn loan request rejected ...
The Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, has explained why the $30bn loan request rejected by the Senate will be re-sent.Featuring on Channels Television yesterday, the Presidential spokesperson explained that the Buharis loan request was not rejected by the Senate but the upper legislative chambers only asked for more details.Reacting to a question on the loan request, Adesina said, Yes, it makes sense to represent. You will notice that what the Senate said was that, it needed more details about the bid for loan and it was not that it rejected the idea completely.Now, on the basis of that, if government did not represent, it wont show you as a serious government in the first place. This is not a flippant government and before it asked for that kind of loan, it did its homework properly, and if the Senate says it needs more details, then more details would be provided and the request would be represented.On the evaluation of current Ministers, Adesina noted that only the President has the prerogative to assess his cabinet.Let me refer you to the Good Book. It says, who are you to judge another mans servant? It is before his master that he either rises or falls. The President assembled that cabinet, he has timelines and deliverables for them. So he is the one who can judge and assess them. If he is going to re-jig that cabinet, it is going to be his decision, his prerogative, he added.Following Senates decision to reject Buharis loan request , the Minister of Information , Lai Mohammed had said the President would resubmit the loan request.
BEIJING, Nov. 14 -- China takes a positive attitude toward cooperation with the United States in all areas, including infrastructure, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said on Monday.
Geng made the comment when asked if China is willing to participate in U.S. infrastructure plans, as President-elect Donald Trump hopes to create more jobs through an infrastructure revamp in the country.
China looks forward to working with the United States to expand cooperation on bilateral, regional and international levels, Geng said at a regular news briefing.
"As for the specific areas of cooperation, China takes a positive attitude to all areas that will benefit the two countries and peoples, including infrastructure," Geng said.
Media reports said the Obama administration has suspended its efforts to win congressional approval for the Trans-Pacific Partnership pact before Trump takes office, saying that the TPP's fate is up to Trump and Republican lawmakers.
"China is open in principle to all trade arrangements that are conducive to liberalizing and facilitating regional trade. But China maintains such arrangements should comply with World Trade Organization rules and should not be politicized," Geng said.
Responding to concerns that Trump vowed to "cancel" the Paris Agreement on climate change, which was inked last December and came into force last week, Geng said the deal was a result of concerted efforts of all parties, including China and the United States.
China is willing to strengthen cooperation with the United States and other countries on climate change and promote green, low-carbon and sustainable development around the globe, the spokesperson added.
MOONACHIE - Police have arrested a Maywood man they say struck a pedestrian twice with his car in the parking lot of Costco in Teterboro.
Fabian Barrios (Moonachie PD)
The 32-year-old victim told police he was pushing a cart back to his car after shopping at the store on Nov. 6 when a driver began blowing his horn at him in an attempt to get him to move.
The victim continued toward his car when the driver suddenly struck him with the car, hitting him in the back of the legs.
"The victim began yelling at (the driver), who struck him a second time causing to fall down," said police Det. Sgt. Anthony Fugnitti.
The driver fled the scene, but not before the victim took note of his plate number and called police, Fugnitti said.
The victim, who was not identified, was taken to Hackensack University Medical Center, police said.
Fabian Barrios, 41, later turned himself into Moonachie police headquarters and was charged with aggravated assault with a motor vehicle and also issued a traffic ticket.
Barrios was released after posting bail, Fugnitti said.
Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
BURLINGTON CITY -- A city man told police he was standing in a backyard on East Federal Street Saturday night when a masked man appeared and shot him in the leg.
Burlington City police said in a statement Monday that the victim, a 29-year-old Florence man, did not recognize the gunman or know why he fired at him.
The incident took place in a yard in the 100 block of East Federal Street around 8:45 p.m., according to police. Emergency responders who were called to the shooting scene found the man suffering from a single gunshot wound to the leg.
He was treated and later released from Lourdes Medical Center of Burlington County in Willingboro.
Police had not made any arrests as of Monday but the case is still under investigation.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Detective Robert O'Brien at 609-386-0262, Ext. 215. Tipsters can also leave a confidential "etip" at burlingtonpolicenj.com or message the department's Facebook page.
Rebecca Everett may be reached at reverett@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @rebeccajeverett. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
boozle_OnlineTax_miller_19.JPG
Josh Needle sits with his laptop, looking at Fanwood's online property tax payment system.
(Andrew Miller/For NJ Advance Media)
Many municipalities allow residents to pay their property taxes online.
But at least two New Jersey municipalities aren't disclosing the fees that are charged to certain online taxpayers.
The lack of disclosure is a big problem.
Josh Needle of Fanwood said he tried to make an online payment on Aug. 1, the date his property taxes were due.
The system gave the option of paying by credit card or by e-check. He chose the e-check.
Needle said a pop-up message warned there was a $1.05 convenience fee.
A redacted copy of the confirmation email received by Josh Needle.
No problem, he thought.
He made the payment and received an email confirmation. "This e-mail will serve as confirmation that your payment was receieved," it said, and yes, the misspelling was in the email.
But on Aug. 12, Needle received a letter from Fanwood tax collector Colleen Huehn.
The letter said his payment was rejected, interest would accrue and that Needle should contact the office for the "correct amount which will include a return check fee."
Needle said he was surprised the payment was rejected because he had more than enough in his checking account to cover the bill.
He visited the tax collector's office to pay the bill and ask why the payment was returned.
"[Tax collector Huehn] said she doesn't know why, she just gets an email stating it's been rejected along with a $20 charge, which the town then passes along to me," Needle said.
Needle said he asked for the vendor's contact information so he could learn more, but Huehn said she didn't have that information.
"I also asked how come I received a payment confirmation email?" Needle said. "She said they don't process it until a few days later."
Needle said he paid the $20 so his account would be in good standing, but he wasn't done.
THE TWO BIG PROBLEMS
Needle saw two problems.
First, he said, the vendor used by Fanwood doesn't validate account information in real time. Needle said he worked as a software developer and he would probably get fired for not having validations for a monetary transaction.
And second, he said, the vendor sends out a confirmation email that's "essentially useless. They might as well send out an email that I've won the lottery. It's just as truthful," he said.
Needle said his wife later spoke to Huehn, who said she spoke to the vendor. It said the payment was rejected because the account numbers were transposed.
Fanwood's online tax payment system. This is the page you'd see just before going to the third-party vendor's site to pay.
That made Needle more frustrated. Had the vendor validated account information at the time of payment, this could have been avoided, he said.
If you make a purchase at Amazon, Needle said, and you enter in the wrong payment information, Amazon doesn't say "Aha! That'll be $20." Instead, Amazon asks you to reenter the payment information.
"In this age of electronic transmissions, when no human is involved, why should the 'return check fee' cost $20?" he said. "I already paid $1.05 for the e-check. If it fails, there's no extra work on anyone's part."
Needle said Fanwood's system should work the same way.
"Why doesn't Amazon charge $20 if you enter in the wrong account info? Because you'd take your business somewhere else," Needle said.
But unless you want to pay by mail or in person, taxpayers don't have a choice.
Indeed, if there's a payment problem with Amazon, the retailer will email a customer so there's an opportunity to pay in a different way.
Needle said he's worried for older residents in town.
"I know it's not unheard of for older people who aren't as comfortable with computers and keyboards to make mistakes more often," Needle said. "Heck, I made one."
Needle wondered how much extra money the vendor makes because of the unposted $20 fee, and whether it was a violation of law.
He asked Bamboozled to investigate.
NOT THE VENDOR BUT THE TOWN
Fanwood's online payment technology is provided by two companies: software provider Edmunds & Assoc. of Northfield, which uses payment services from Link2Gov.com, a division of FIS, a Florida-based financial services technology provider.
An Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request showed Fanwood paid $11,290 to Edmunds for the services, and several thousand dollars more for services such as tax bill stuffing and mailing.
Neither company would tell us how many municipalities in the state they provide services for, or who was charging the $20 fee.
This is the page online taxpayers in Nutley will see, with the $20 return check fee clearly spelled out.
Online searches showed local governments use different software providers for online tax collection, and quite a few also use Edmunds.
Nutley is one of them, but the township's online payment page clearly says a $20 fee will be assessed if an e-check is returned for any reason.
That's when we realized it's Fanwood, not Edmunds, that charges the $20 fee.
Fanwood tax collector Huehn confirmed it's Fanwood, and the fee is charged for all returned payments per borough ordinance, she said.
It's a returned check fee charged by Fanwood's bank, which the municipality passes on to the taxpayer, she said.
We also learned that two Fanwood online tax payments were rejected in 2015, and one was rejected in 2016.
We asked why the fee isn't posted, but Huehn never answered the question.
So we asked about the confirmation email received by Needle.
"When the transaction is complete, the online payer will receive a 'payment confirmation' email/not a 'payment accepted' email and then will be directed to a screen that specifically notes in RED letters '****Payment Pending****,'" she said in an email. "These payments are then routed to a clearing house where verification of account information will begin."
Even if the online screen says a payment is pending, the email sent to taxpayers is worded such that a reasonable person might think the payment was complete.
As a reminder, the letter said, "This e-mail will serve as confirmation that your payment was receieved." (And again, the misspelling isn't ours.)
When we said that Nutley discloses the fee, Huehn said she checked out other towns that use the same system, and not everyone provides disclosure. She named Clark as one that does not disclose.
But just because other municipalities don't do it, well, that doesn't make it right.
And we figured the lack of disclosure was probably against the law.
Not exactly, said Tom Calcagni, a former head of the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, now an attorney with Calcagni & Kanefsky in Newark.
Calcagni said the state's Consumer Fraud Act imposes liability on "any person" who uses any unconscionable commercial practice, which includes "the concealment, suppression, or omission of any material fact."
He said while courts routinely have found that hidden surcharges and fees violate the act, it doesn't cover municipalities, which are not considered a "person" under the statute.
Josh Needle points out features of Fanwood's online property tax payment system.
He called Fanwood's lack of disclosure "troubling."
"Even if the town was acting in good faith with no intention of misleading online property tax payers, knowing of its own failure to disclose the fee could suggest concealment and intentional omission," Calcagni said. "At the very least, it would seem to suggest a failure to act in the best interest of residents."
Hidden or undisclosed fees are not something the law tolerates from business owners, Calcagni said, adding that this situation raises the question of whether similar practices should be permitted by our local governments.
We took this to Clark, which also doesn't disclose the fee. Tax collector Laura Caliguire said the township had no complaints about the fee, and that a resolution allowing the fee is passed each year.
She also said she wasn't sure what Clark's website said or didn't say. We told her it didn't make the disclosure, and we asked her to let us know if the township makes any changes. We haven't heard anything yet.
We went back to Fanwood to ask if it would consider posting a disclosure, but it didn't respond to multiple requests.
Heck, dear readers, we've got 565 municipalities in the state. Bamboozled didn't check them all. Can you help out? Visit your town's online tax payment system and let us know what you learn.
In the meantime, Needle wants to see Fanwood use a system with real-time verification.
"My point about the fee is that even 'for any reason' it isn't really valid: the reason could be a blip in the electronic transmission -- how many times have you had to re-swipe your credit card? -- or in my case it was something that should never have been an issue in the first place with proper validation," Needle said.
Have you been Bamboozled? Reach Karin Price Mueller at Bamboozled@NJAdvanceMedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KPMueller. Find Bamboozled on Facebook. Mueller is also the founder of NJMoneyHelp.com.
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Gwen Ifill, the longtime PBS news anchor and moderator of "Washington Week" has died, according to multiple reports. She was 61.
Politico reports Ifill, a New York native, died in hospice care after a battle with cancer. She was absent from PBS's most recent rounds of political coverage due to health issues.
"Gwen was a standard bearer for courage, fairness and integrity in an industry going through seismic change," Sara Just, "PBS NewsHour" executive producer, said in a statement posted by Variety. "She was a mentor to so many across the industry and her professionalism was respected across the political spectrum. She was a journalist's journalist and set an example for all around her."
The broadcast journalist best known as an anchor on PBS's "NewHour" had moderated the 2004 and 2008 vice-presidential debates. She previously held reporting positions at The Washington Post, The New York Times and NBC.
Ifill was to receive the 2016 John Chancellor Award from Columbia University on Wednesday, Politico reported.
Ifill's first book, "The Breakthrough: Politics and Race in the Age of Obama" was released in 2009.
Bobby Olivier may be reached at bolivier@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @BobbyOlivier. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
MONTCLAIR -- The campus of Montclair State University might be completely smoke and tobacco free by 2019.
The college is considering the possibility of implementing a campus-wide tobacco ban that it said will be aided by a $19,415 grant aimed at creating a generation of Americans that do not use any tobacco products.
Montclair State is one of the first 20 universities across the country to receive the American Cancer Society and CVS Health Foundation's "Tobacco-Free Generation Campus Initiative," grant, a $3.6 million program aimed at helping colleges become tobacco-less.
MSU is the only New Jersey school to receive the grant, and plans to use it to launch a new "Tobacco Free Red Hawks" program, the school said in an announcement.
"The goal of Tobacco Free Red Hawks is to engage and educate the campus community and support those who are looking to make lifestyle changes," said MSU Coordinator of Health Promotion Marie Cascarano.
"The University feels strongly about its role in creating a healthy living, learning and working environment for all students, faculty and staff, and this initiative is another way to act on that institutional commitment."
The school, officials said, has taken steps toward eliminating all forms of tobacco, including vapor and e-cigarettes, from its campus. The goal of the grant is for schools to become completely tobacco-free within the next three years. Only about a third of college campuses are 100 percent tobacco free, the school said.
CVS's Tobacco-Free Generation Campus Initiative is part of a larger, five-year, $50 million education and advocacy initiative that the company says is aimed at creating the country's first tobacco-free generation.
"We're at a critical moment in our nation's efforts to end the epidemic of tobacco use, but we know we can't do it alone," said Eileen Howard Boone, a senior vice president at CVS Health.
"Through the power of partnership and by increasing the number of tobacco-free colleges and universities, we can contribute to the progress being made where a tobacco-free generation in the U.S. seems possible, not a faraway dream."
Jessica Mazzola may be reached at jmazzola@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @JessMazzola. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
NEWARK -- The election of Donald Trump will not change how New Jersey's largest city treats its population of undocumented immigrants, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka said in a statement issued Monday morning.
"Newark already has a policy of protecting undocumented immigrants from deportation by U.S. immigration authorities. Despite the election of Donald Trump, we see no reason to change that policy," Baraka, a Democrat, said about the victory of the Republican Trump in last week's election.
As an apparent assurance to families in the city who might be affected by a deportation push, Baraka said city officials "are not going to sacrifice thousands of people who live among us, who are part of our community, and who contribute to the economy and vitality of Newark. We are not going to tear families apart."
Trump took firm stances on immigration throughout his campaign, but in a "60 Minutes" interview Sunday appeared to back off from claims that he would deport all of the undocumented immigrants in the country. Instead, Trump said he would focus on deporting or detaining undocumented immigrants with criminal records.
Baraka issued the immigration statement Monday. (File photo)
In the statement Monday, Baraka said the city plans to continue its current practice of arresting undocumented immigrants only if they engage in criminal activities.
"In Newark, we comply with federal immigration agencies, but insist that detainer requests be handled constitutionally. I hope that no president would violate those principles, the very foundation of our nation, by taking punitive action against cities that are simply protecting the well-being of residents," Baraka said.
The city last year launched a municipal identification program that issued ID cards that allow undocumented immigrants to access state, city, financial, and cultural services. As of this September, the city had issued nearly 10,000 of the IDs. Similar programs have issued thousands more IDs in cities throughout New Jersey and the rest of the country.
Mayors in other cities with similar policies have reportedly taken similar stances. According to Philly.com, Mayor Jim Kenney said Philadelphia also plans to remain a so-called "Sanctuary City."
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cheering young woman backpacker at sunrise seaside mountain peak
People who enjoy greater happiness and sense of purpose in life are less likely to develop dementia, research shows.
(Thinkstock photo)
Ask yourself this simple question. Why did you get out of bed this morning?
The answer could say a lot about your chances of staying healthy, keeping your mind sharp and staving off dementia.
Especially if there is no answer.
People who describe themselves as lacking a clear purpose in life are more likely to suffer cognitive decline and develop Alzheimer's disease, recent research shows.
For older Americans, that can be a particular concern.
The most common ways we find purpose are through our children or our career. Once the kids are grown and gone, and you're now entering retirement, it's all too easy to lose your sense of purpose. And that can translate into physical and mental decline of surprising severity.
How strong is the connection between loss of purpose and poor health? Statistically speaking, the year you retire is the most dangerous year of your life, says Dan Buettner, a National Geographic fellow who's studied longevity in communities across the globe.
"You are three times more likely to die the year you retire compared to your last year of work," Buettner said at the Aspen Ideas Festival in June. "Ask yourself, why is that? It turns out when you're young, you have your kids, you have your job to keep you engaged, but then when that all goes away, we live in a culture that doesn't particularly celebrate older people."
He contrasts the American experience with that in Japan, where the elderly are venerated. The Japanese also place a higher value on living a purpose-driven life -- so much so that they have a special word for it.
The Japanese call it ikigai, a term loosely translated as "a reason to get out of bed."
Buettner observed ikigai in action while interviewing centenarians on Okinawa, an island where the ratio of adults living to the age of 100 is among the highest in the world, and where chronic disease and Azlheimer's among the oldest of the old are exceptionally low.
"Older people are expected to continue to give back, and they're honored, so they stay engaged," he says. "They have a reason to get out of bed in the morning, get out of the easy chair, use those decades of accumulated wisdom and apply it for good. And it turns out there's a virtuous circle there. They don't experience that spike in mortality."
These observations aren't just anecdotal. Eric Kim, a research fellow at Harvard's T.H. Chan School of Public Health, says they're solidly backed by research. Studies show sense of purpose holds steady in Japan, but declines in the U.S. as we age.
"For some reason, purpose really drops (among Americans) after the age of 65 or 70," he says. "We suspect it's because of retirement; I think that's the big factor. In a sister data set in Japan, that sense of purpose maintains, while in U.S. it's dropping."
That decline comes at a cognitive cost. In a study published in the Archives of General Psychiatry, researchers from the Rush University Medical Center in Chicago followed 951 older adults who were free of dementia. Over a period of seven years, about one in six ended up with dementia. But those who expressed the greatest happiness and sense of purpose in life at the beginning of the study were the least likely to develop Alzheimer's disease. They also had the lowest rates of mild cognitive impairment or other cognitive decline.
Dr. Aron S. Buchman, one of the Rush researchers, told HealthDay News that maintaining a sense of purpose could be a key to fending off Alzheimer's, in combination with other proven preventative measures.
"More social activity, more physical activity, higher cognitive activities, high purpose in life -- all these psychosocial factors seem to be linked with longer life, decreased mortality, decreased disability and provide important clues to a public health approach to try to increase independence in older people in later life," Buchman said.
According to Kim, that finding has been replicated in several other studies. He says a sense of purpose can even protect people whose brains already are showing the signs of damage commonly associated with Alzheimer's.
"Even when people have the same amount of biological markers in the brain, those who have higher sense of purpose can actually function better," he says. "They are somehow pushing themselves to continue functioning, even though they are biologically having the same amount of tangles in their brain."
Purpose has become such a strong indicator of wellness that health insurance companies, government agencies and groups like AARP are taking notice. "These kinds of organizations have contacted me in the last year to brainstorm how we can perhaps in the future utilize some of this research," Kim says.
That could lead to new public policy. But we don't have to wait for that. On a personal level, all of us can ask ourselves if we still feel driven by some sense of purpose.
Kim acknowledges that Americans are less comfortable with that question. The concept of ikigai, after all, is not in our lexicon.
"Sometimes, people here talk about what makes us happy, and that's culturally OK," he says. "But for some reason, when you bring up the question of purpose in life, people get a little more nervous."
So he's learned to come at the question a slightly different way. "I used to ask, 'What's your purpose in life?'" he says. "People just don't know. So I transferred it over to the ikigai definition of, 'What gets you up in the morning?' That really gets people going on the topic."
For Americans, he says, purpose often has three components: a sense of meaning, a sense of direction, and a set of goals to live for.
If you feel any of that missing in your life, Kim and other experts offer these ideas for finding renewed purpose in your later years:
Volunteer.
Take up a cause.
Get active in your church.
Launch an encore career.
Tony Dearing may be reached at tdearing@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyDearing. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, which is headquartered in Newark, announced that a printing glitch mistakenly mailed out 170,000 benefit letters that may have contained other members' information. (Matt Smith | For NJ Advance Media)
TRENTON -- Some benefit letters mailed to as many as 170,000 Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey customers over a recent three-day period included the names, policy numbers and the physician information of other policy holders -- a privacy breach created by a printing error, the insurance company announced Monday.
Horizon pledged to monitor the accounts of affected policy holders for fraudulent activity, according to a statement from the insurance company's printing vendor that made the error, Command Marketing Innovations of Garfield.
Command Marketing referred questions to Horizon.
"While no social security numbers, financial information, addresses or dates of birth were included on the statements, (the letters) may include member name, member ID number, claim number, date of service, limited description of services, service codes or provider/facility name," according to the announcement.
The letters known as the explanation of benefits or EOB, and the explanation of payment or EOP sent to medical providers were printed on Oct. 31, Nov. 1 and Nov. 2. The error was caught on Nov. 2 and printing was halted immediately, the announcement said.
"Horizon BCBSNJ will monitor impacted members' accounts for any potential fraudulent submission of medical claims. Corrected EOBs and EOPs will be reissued within the next week and notifications of the error will be mailed to impacted Horizon BCBSNJ members," the announcement said.
Cheryl Vass of Clark said she and her daughter in Cranford both received the incorrect letters and contacted Horizon immediately to express concern about their private information. Vass said the Horizon employee she reached took her name and number and promised to "add it to the list."
"I asked, 'Should I worry about anything?' Vass said.
"The thing that worries me is I have got someone's name and health insurance number. I'm not going to do anything with it. But someone else has my name and card number. What are they going to do?"
She said her daughter also called to report the error. "The person she got was more caring and apologized," she said.
Horizon spokesman Kevin McArdle said it is unclear how many of the 170,000 letters that were printed over the three-day period contained information about other customers.
"Horizon continues to work with the vendor to determine exactly how many members were impacted, but we do know that approximately 170,000 envelopes were mailed," he said.
McArdle also said he did not know how many people had called to complain. He said he was not aware of reports of suspicious activity as a result of the privacy breach.
In 2014, two laptops were stolen from Horizon's Newark headquarters which contained unencrypted information of 840,000 policy holders. The information included names, addresses, date of births and some social security numbers and limited medical information.
Bamboozled columnist Karin Price Mueller contributed to this report. Susan K. Livio may be reached at slivio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @SusanKLivio. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.
gestational.jpg
Marybeth Walz Pritzlaff and husband Ode Pritzlaff with daughter Carrington Grace. Walz's earlier use of a woman to carry her fertilized eggs has produced a lawsuit against her former employer, Verizon Business Solutions. (Family photo)
Cancer took from Marybeth Walz a womb in which to carry a baby, but not the eggs to conceive one.
Eventually, she became a mother courtesy of a "gestational surrogate," a woman who carried Walz's fertilized eggs to term, but not before losing twin sons in infancy.
It was a rocky journey for the 45-year-old Red Bank woman, now the married mother of a 5-month-old daughter.
While she is now enjoying a new life, Walz said she has one important piece of unfinished business from those darker days: Holding her former employer accountable for allegedly refusing to grant her a paid maternity leave.
Walz has sued Verizon Network Solutions, of Basking Ridge, where, according to her lawsuit, she was a salesperson earning $170,000, for its handling of her unorthodox method of having a child.
The case raises intriguing questions about how businesses handle atypical pregnancies, according to legal experts. Should someone whose eggs produce a child born of another woman be eligible for a paid maternity leave? And is the inability to become pregnant considered a pregnancy-related disability?
Walz contends the company violated disability laws by denying her paid maternity leave when her twin boys - carried by her sister-in-law - were born prematurely in late 2013.
Verizon has yet to file a response to her accusations because the case remains in federal court in Boston, awaiting a decision about whether it should be transferred to New Jersey. Until then, said Verizon spokesman Robert Varettoni, the company has no comment.
Gestational surrogacy remains quite rare: just 2.5 percent of all the cycles of in-vitro fertilization involve implanting a fertilized egg in a woman who didn't provide the egg and doesn't intend to keep the baby. (Normally it's the reverse: A fertilized egg from another woman is implanted in an infertile woman who wants to give birth to the child.)
And in-vitro fertilization itself accounts for just 1.5 percent of American births, producing about 63,000 babies a year.
In the workplace, gestational surrogacy is governed by "a minefield of disjunctive state laws," wrote Utah attorney Jeffrey D. Enquist in the Journal of Law and Family Studies, that wrestle with the question of "how to determine when a mother is truly a mother."
Walz said she resorted to gestational surrogacy because surgery she'd had at the age of 29 for cervical cancer rendered her incapable of carrying a baby. She was single at the time, but had eight eggs frozen in hopes of some day becoming a mother.
Nearly a decade later, she embarked on that mission, courtesy of a sperm donor and her sister-in-law's willingness to serve as her gestational surrogate.
Walz's lawsuit said Verizon officials were initially congratulatory in 2013 when she told them she was expecting twin boys. When they learned the pregnancy was carried by a surrogate, however, they said she wouldn't qualify for a paid leave, the lawsuit alleges.
Walz said the ultimate irony was that if she had adopted a child, Verizon would most likely have given her not only a paid maternity leave, but also $10,000 toward her adoption expenses.
At one point during her discussions with Verizon, she said, a human resources employee even suggested she adopt the twins - although there was no legal need to adopt children produced by her own eggs.
"I said, 'That makes no sense,"' she recalled recently.
When the twin boys were born three months' premature, Walz traveled to her sister-in-law's North Carolina home to oversee their care. (She was their only legal guardian.) One boy died within 24 hours, while the second baby died six months later.
During that period, according to her lawsuit, she worked remotely from North Carolina, then went on disability for depression after the second twin baby died. She contends in the lawsuit that Verizon's response was to demote her to a less lucrative sales team, then ultimately to fire her.
Her case has languished for more than a year in federal court: First the judge excused himself, causing a delay, then Verizon argued the case should be heard in New Jersey instead of Boston, where Walz's attorney practices.
Her attorney, Charles Rodman, calls it "a cautionary tale about what can happen in a workplace when the culture at the workplace is not yet up to date."
The case was filed in Boston, Rodman said, because that's where he is based. Walz said she selected him because he was involved in a 2011 case that also involved workplace handling of a gestational surrogacy pregnancy.
"We are supposed to be equal in the eyes of the law, but unfortunately, we're not," he said "This is not a case that we are advancing to get rich. It's a social justice effort. Things have got to change."
While her dispute with Verizon was going on, Walz married an old boyfriend from high school. She and her husband, Ode Pritzlaff, tried gestational surrogacy again, with the pregnancy this time carried by a family friend in New Jersey.
Carrington Grace Pritzlaff was born this past June.
Note: An earlier version of this article stated the woman who carried Walz's daughter was hired. She was not; she offered to do it out of sympathy for her plight.
Kathleen O'Brien may be reached at kobrien@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @OBrienLedger. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
JERSEY CITY -- A 20-year-old Jersey City man with a pending gun charge is now accused of murdering a 34-year-old father of four on Fulton Avenue earlier this month.
Khalil M. Holmes, of Pearsall Avenue, is charged with murdering Michael A. Bowers, of Jersey City, on Nov. 3. Bowers who was found on the sidewalk outside 208 Fulton Ave with multiple gunshot wounds at about 9:45 p.m. He was treated at the scene and rushed to Jersey City Medical Center-RWJBarnabas Health, where he was pronounced dead, officials said.
Holmes, who was arrested Friday, is also charged with conspiring with an unnamed juvenile to commit the homicide, as well as a weapons offense related to a handgun, according to his criminal complaint.
When Holmes made his first court appearance on the charges today, Hudson County Assistant Prosecutor Leonardo Rinaldi argued his bail should remain at $1 million cash only, noting he has been indicted in an unrelated gun charge.
Rinaldi also noted that Holmes was an adjudicated delinquent as a juvenile for unlawful possession of a handgun and he received a sentence of three years confinement in that matter. The prosecutor also noted that Holmes received 18 months probation for robbery.
"Based upon the continuous violent offense arrests and adjudications, a $1 million cash only bail is appropriate," Rinaldi told Superior Court Judge Sheila Venable during the hearing in Central Judicial Processing court in Jersey City this afternoon.
In seeking a reduced bail, defense attorney Inez Flores noted Holmes' age and told the judge that "all his roots are in the county."
"Based on the seriousness of the of the charge, this is first degree, which is the most serious...$1 million cash is appropriate," Venable said.
Holmes faces 30 years to life in prison if convicted of murder. He appeared in CJP via video link from Hudson County jail in Kearny.
No friends or family members attended the hearing.
Six Chinese tourists have been transported by helicoptor to Christchurch, New Zealand. The Chinese Consulate General has promised to transfer all Chinese tourists to Christchurch as soon as possible.
No deaths of Chinese nationals resulted from the recent earthquake on the South Island, though one tourist sustained minor injuries. That tourist has been hospitalized, according to information provided by New Zealand authorities and the local Chinese Consulate General. Currently, there are about 40 Chinese tourists trapped in Kaikoura.
The Chinese Consulate General has made contact with the tourists and arranged places for them to stay. Li Xin, deputy consul general, has arrived in Kaikoura along with other officials.
Read more:
Two deaths, tourist town cut off after severe New Zealand quake
JERSEY CITY -- A Jersey City man accused of being high on PCP when he allegedly struck and killed two boys with his car in North Bergen in March was back in court today for a status hearing.
Eric Patterson, 23, was charged with two counts of death by auto and one count of assault by auto causing serious bodily injury following the deaths of Bryan Rodriguez, 17, and Noel Herrera, 16. He was charged with assault by auto regarding a then 17-year-old, Manuel Sanchez of Union City, who suffered blunt force trauma and fractures, an official said.
At today's hearing, defense attorney Sara Selig-Walsh said she is pursuing an additional investigation and would require two months to complete it. Hudson County Superior Court Judge John Young set a tentative date of Jan. 23 for the next pretrial hearing in the matter.
Meanwhile, Hudson County Assistant Prosecutor Leo Hernandez noted that he will most likely seek to enter as evidence statements made by Patterson at the hospital following the crash. He also said he has obtained the medical record of the surviving victim.
Several days after the fatal collision, the charges in the two deaths were elevated to aggravated manslaughter when toxicology tests revealed Patterson was high on PCP at the time of the March 5 incident.
Investigators say Patterson was heading north on Kennedy Boulevard at 74 miles per hour -- nearly three times the speed limit. As he went around cars stopped at a red light, he veered into the southbound lanes and struck the three victims, authorities said.
Patterson was also cited for speeding, reckless driving and driving with a suspended license, an official said. He appeared at today's hearing with his hands cuffed and wearing the green garb of the Hudson County jail in Kearny. He said nothing.
Rodriguez was a freshman at Union City High School and Herrera attended school in Cliffside Park but attended elementary and middle school in Union City. Family members of at least one of the victims were in court for today's hearing but opted not to comment.
Patterson is currently being held on a $2 million bail.
JERSEY CITY -- Hundreds gathered at the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza Sunday afternoon calling for unity less than a week after the 2016 presidential election.
"Love trumps hate," people at today's rally chanted to show their distaste for President-elect Donald Trump. "We deserve better."
In one of the most diverse cities in the nation, Jersey City residents vowed to be an example of inclusion for people of all races, religions and backgrounds and emphasized that "racism is not welcome here."
Michael Billy, co-chair of Jersey City Pride, said he's been angry, sad and confused the past week. He challenged everyone to continue to cultivate the diversity of the city and be an example for the rest of the nation.
"If it works here, it's got to work everywhere else in the United States," he said. "We're the melting pot, we're the Golden Door, we're leading by example. We have a chance to lead in this change."
A number of hate crimes have been reported across the country since the election. A group of students from the University of Pennsylvania reported receiving racist messages through a group messaging app. Racially charged messages have also been found, according to CNN.
During the rally, students from Learning Community Charter School led the group in songs which included a performance of "This Land is Your Land."
Jersey City Council President Rolando Lavarro shared a story with a group of young children sitting on the ground in front of him about how he was bullied when he was 12 years old.
His family had moved to Missouri for about a year and said he was called racially derogatory names by his classmates on a daily basis. After one boy humiliated the now-council president in front of the entire school, Lavarro told the children he got into a physical fight. He said the way he was treated by his classmates was something that stuck with him his entire life.
"We're all here to protect you," he told the children, as some parents wiped tears from their eyes.
Caitlin Mota may be reached at cmota@jjournal.com. Follow her on Twitter @caitlin_mota. Find The Jersey Journal on Facebook.
JERSEY CITY -- As a kid growing up in the city's Salem-Lafayette housing complex, Lonnie Henderson had a dream of one day becoming a firefighter and serving his city.
Henderson achieved that life-long goal Monday morning, joining 18 other members of the Jersey City Fire Department's 634th class.
"This is everything," the 34-year-old said after an 11 a.m. swearing-in ceremony at City Hall.
The graduating class in especially unique in two ways: all 19 men have served in the military and are fully certified emergency medical technicians. The group, comprised entirely of Jersey City residents, completed 10 weeks of training at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy and an additional two weeks of training in Jersey City.
Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop applauded the men for their service. While most people would run from danger, he thanked the class for its commitment for running into dangerous situations to keep Jersey City residents safe.
"As we welcome this new class of firefighters, we recognize them for their commitment to service and for choosing a career that ensures the safety of their fellow neighbors," Fulop said.
The city now has 568 firefighters, 99 of whom have been added to the department in the past three years with help from a $6.9 million federal Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant.
John Palmer, a 24-year-old Army veteran, said his training in the military definitely prepared him for his career as a firefighter.
"I'm expecting everything and anything," the Heights resident said.
The 19 new members are: Kevin Davis, Patrick Ducey, Adalberto Arroyo, Matthew Spinella, Lonnie Henderson, Carlos Drouet, Mathew Bertolini, Nicholas Debiasse, Kenneth Rutmayer, Daniel Delaney Jr., Michael Leonard, Julio Milla, John Palmer, Christian Baierwalter, Matthew Nierstedt, Dylan Walsh, Jason Daniels, Nolanray Perlas, and Joseph Costante.
The class is also the first to be fully EMT-certified, as the firefighters underwent EMT training as part of their fire academy courses. The EMT training was covered through a $62,500 federal SAFER grant that was awarded to the department. The Fulop administration plans to expand EMT training to all new firefighters.
Henderson, who served in the Navy, said his four children are excited to see their father complete the fire academy. His 6-year-old son is already anticipating following in his dad's footsteps in becoming a firefighter. Henderson hopes to not only inspire his children, but his community as well.
"Hopefully I can be somebody they're proud of," he said.
Caitlin Mota may be reached at cmota@jjournal.com. Follow her on Twitter @caitlin_mota. Find The Jersey Journal on Facebook.
BEIJING, Nov. 14 --Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday discussed China-U.S. relations with Donald Trump in a telephone conversation.
Xi congratulated Trump on his election as U.S. president and expressed his willingness to work with him.
Since the two countries established formal ties 37 years ago, bilateral relations have been continuously progressing, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples and promoting world and regional peace, stability and prosperity, Xi said.
Facts have shown that cooperation is the only correct choice for the two countries, he said.
As China-U.S. cooperation faces important opportunities and has huge potential, the two countries need to strengthen coordination, advance their respective economic development and global economic growth and expand exchanges and cooperation in various fields so as to bring more benefits to the two peoples and promote the smooth development of China-U.S. relations, said the Chinese president.
As the biggest developing country and the biggest developed country respectively and as the top two economies of the world, there are many things in which China and the United States can and should cooperate, Xi said.
"I attach great importance to China-U.S. relations and am ready to work with the U.S. side to carry forward bilateral ties and to better benefit the two peoples and the rest of the world," he told Trump.
For his part, Trump thanked Xi for the congratulations and said that he agreed with Xi on his views about U.S.-China relations.
China is a great and important country with eye-catching development prospects, said Trump. The United States and China can achieve win-win results featuring mutual benefits, he added.
Trump voiced his readiness to work with Xi to strengthen U.S.-China cooperation and expressed his belief that U.S.-China relations will witness even greater development.
Xi and Trump also agreed to maintain close contact, establish a good working relationship and meet at an early date to exchange views on bilateral ties and other issues of common concern.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
Trend:
Over the past 24 hours, Armenias armed forces have 15 times violated the ceasefire along the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops, said Azerbaijans Defense Ministry Nov. 14.
The Azerbaijani army positions located in Qaymaqli village of Azerbaijans Gazakh district underwent fire from the Armenian army positions located in Barekamavan village of the Noyemberyan district of Armenia.
The Azerbaijani army positions located in Munjuglu village of Azerbaijans Tovuz district underwent fire from the Armenian army positions located on the nameless heights of the Berd district of Armenia.
Moreover, the Azerbaijani army positions also underwent fire from the Armenian positions located near the Armenian-occupied Chilaburt village of the Tartar district, as well as on nameless heights of the Goranboy, Tartar and Fizuli districts.
The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations.
Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
Trend:
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received Vice-President of the Asian Development Bank Wencai Zhang November 14.
The head of state praised the level of cooperation between Azerbaijan and the Asian Development Bank and recalled with pleasure his meeting with President of the organization Takehiko Nakao during the 48th Annual Meeting of the ADB Board of Governors in Baku in 2015.
Hailing the success of the event that Azerbaijan hosted and participation of a large number of representatives from member states, President Ilham Aliyev underlined new dynamics in cooperation between Azerbaijan and the Asian Development Bank.
Describing Azerbaijan as a reliable partner with financial capabilities, and the country which has always fulfilled its commitments, President Ilham Aliyev thanked Wencai Zhang for the important projects which ADB carried out in Azerbaijan, particularly for its supporting the Southern Gas Corridor project.
President Ilham Aliyev hailed the importance of the Southern Gas Corridor project not only to Azerbaijan, but to the region in a broader geography, including Europe.
Pointing to Azerbaijan-ADB cooperation in a number of other areas too, the head of state noted that most of the jointly implemented infrastructure projects have already been completed.
President Ilham Aliyev expressed his confidence that cooperation between Azerbaijan and ADB will continue, saying Vice-President Wencai Zhang's visit to the country created a good opportunity for discussing cooperation prospects and reviewing work done in recent years.
Wencai Zhang extended greetings of President of the Asian Development Bank Takehiko Nakao to President Ilham Aliyev.
He expressed his gratitude to President Ilham Alivev for supporting the organization of the 48th Annual Meeting of the ADB Board of Governors in Baku in 2015.
Wencai Zhang praised very good cooperation between ADB and Azerbaijan. He said ADB has allocated $2.8 billion to Azerbaijan since the country joined the organization in 1999.
Wencai Zhang said that apart from its own projects in Azerbaijan, ADB also supports and attaches importance to Southern Gas Corridor and Shah Deniz projects. He noted that a special council was set up at ADB to deal with these projects.
The sides also emphasized the importance of ADB-supported infrastructure projects in Azerbaijan, including North-South railroad corridor, water supply, road expansion and other projects. ADBs including such projects in its 2017-2019 funding program for Azerbaijan was hailed at the meeting.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
By Seba Aghayeva Trend:
Consultations will be held between the foreign ministries of Azerbaijan and Moldova in the near future, Gheorghe Leuca, Moldovas ambassador to Azerbaijan, told Trend November 14.
Lilian Darii, Moldovas deputy foreign minister, is expected to visit Baku to participate in the foreign ministerial consultations, Leuca added.
During the consultations, Azerbaijans and Moldovas officials will discuss the current state and prospects of cooperation between the two countries in regional and international organizations to which the two countries are members, the ambassador said.
He added that the dates of the visit and consultations are being agreed.
From the Azerbaijani side, Deputy Foreign Minister Khalaf Khalafov will take part in the consultations, Leuca said.
Earlier, Darii at a meeting with Qudsi Osmanov, newly appointed ambassador of Azerbaijan to Moldova, expressed interest in intensifying the bilateral political dialogue and expanding the economic and trade relations between Moldova and Azerbaijan.
After a pig roast, it's time for Sankey Bowl talk in today's 11 a.m chat
The federal government plans to pour $125 million into the fight against a mysterious disease that has ravaged corals in Florida and much of the Caribbean, and now poses a dire threat to the treasured reefs off the Louisiana and Texas coasts.
WASHINGTON (AP) The House committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol has issued a subpoena to Donald Trump. The nine-member panel sent a letter to the former president's lawyers on Friday, demanding his testimony under oath by mid-November and outlining a series of corresponding documents. The decision by lawmakers to exercise their subpoena power comes a week after the committee made its final case against the former president, who they say is the "central cause" of the multi-part effort to overturn the results of the 2020 election. It remains unclear how Trump and his legal team will respond to the subpoena, if at all.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
By Seba Aghayeva Trend:
EU foreign ministers will discuss the preparation of a new agreement on partnership with Azerbaijan.
The discussions will be held during a meeting at the Council of the European Union Nov. 14 in Brussels, Belgium.
Earlier, Mahmud Mammad-Guliyev, Azerbaijans deputy foreign minister, told Trend that the mandate to start negotiations on the new agreement on strategic modernized partnership between the EU and Azerbaijan may be issued until end of 2016.
Currently, bilateral relations between the EU and Azerbaijan are regulated on the basis of an agreement on partnership and cooperation that was signed in 1996 and entered into force in 1999.
The new agreement envisages the compliance of Azerbaijans legislation and procedures with the EUs most important international trade norms and standards, which should lead to the improvement of Azerbaijani goods access to the EU markets.
The EU is Azerbaijans major trade partner.
Azerbaijan initiated to sign an agreement on strategic modernized partnership with the EU instead of the agreement about association. The document is a program, a plan of action aimed at the expansion of cooperation with the EU beyond energy. The new agreement will define new directions of partnership, such as education and other spheres.
Can the Saints bounce back at Carolina on Thursday? Chime in for Tuesday's Dat Chat Podcast
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
Trend:
Navy ships and boats have joined the large-scale exercises conducted by Azerbaijans Armed Forces, Defense Ministry said in a message Nov. 14.
The exercises are carried out according to the plan approved by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ilham Aliyev.
Common readiness of personnel of the ships and boats participating in the exercises and operational situation in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea were inspected during the drills.
Tasks of the first stage of the drills were completed successfully.
The drills will end November 18.
Details added (first version posted at 11:58)
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
By Huseyn Valiyev - Trend:
The Baku Engineering University will begin to operate in 2017-2018 academic year, Mikayil Jabbarov, Azerbaijani minister of education, told reporters in Baku November 14.
Jabbarov said the location of the university is still being discussed.
"The university will be provided with resource and technical base, he said. The management will be appointed and the curriculum will be worked out at the university.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed the decree on the establishment of the Baku Engineering University November 8, 2016.
The Baku Engineering University, which will operate under the Azerbaijani Ministry of Education, will prepare engineers on all levels of higher education, implement higher and additional education programs in this sphere and carry out basic and applied research.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
Trend:
Rector of Baku Higher Oil School (BHOS) Elmar Gasimov met with the Ambassador of Indonesia to Azerbaijan Husnan Bey Fananie.
Welcoming the honorable guest, Gasimov told him about development of business relations between two countries in the fields of economics, tourism, culture and education.
He also informed the guest about history of the Higher School established by a Decree of the President of the Azerbaijan Republic Ilham Aliyev, BHOS achievements and conditions, created for education of the students and training of high-qualified professionals for oil and gas industry.
Gasimov emphasized that BHOS constantly develops business relations with leading universities and companies around the world.
Fananie expressed his gratitude for the cordial reception and dwelled on establishment of cooperation between BHOS and Indonesian universities in the framework of the broader cooperation between Azerbaijan and Indonesia.
The ambassador invited BHOS professors, students and staff members to attend Indonesian Culture Festival to be held on November 19-20 in Baku.
Spheres of the future cooperation between BHOS and Indonesian universities including student and teacher exchange programs and other issues of mutual interest were also discussed.
At the end of the meeting, Gasimov presented BHOS Honorable Guest diploma to the Indonesian ambassador.
Faulty equipment may be at least partly to blame for odor complaints coming from the Pratt Industries plant in Valparaiso, according to the preliminary findings of an investigation under way by state environmental officials.
Company officials said two of four blowers in the plants aeration system failed Sept. 13, causing portions of the process to become septic, according to a water report completed by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management.
An air report is still awaiting internal approval before it will be released, according to Courtney Arango, IDEM communications director.
Two blowers have been repaired, according to IDEM. The company also told the investigator a spare mixer was out for maintenance when the odor was detected.
A higher capacity aerator is planned for January, and there is a possibility a geodesic dome will be installed in the spring to curb odors, according to the IDEM report.
The state inspector noted that he did not detect any sewage odors at the times of his inspections on Oct. 17, 18 and 27.
There are no violations observed in regards to wastewater issues at this time, according to the IDEM report.
Michael ORegan, director of media affairs for Pratt, could not be reached Monday for comment.
Morgan Township resident Craig Kenworthy has described the odor as a sulfur smell and told The Times he can smell it at his home two miles southeast of the plant.
Porter County Councilman Jim Biggs, R-1st, said he has been hearing complaints since the start of the year about the odors.
Pratt unveiled its new $250 million recycle paper factory at the site in March, which was billed as the worlds most modern, environmentally friendly paper mill. It was built next to the companys corrugated box factory.
HOBART For three consecutive years, the Indiana Department of Education has rated River Forest Jr-Sr High School a D.
This is the first year of a process to turn around the school academically.
River Forest Superintendent Steve Disney, in his third year as superintendent, said the first step was bringing in a new principal to make changes and improve the school grade. Last year, Randall Horka was in charge of the junior and senior high school. This year, Horka is principal at the middle school, and Alexander J. Brandon is the new high school principal.
Disney said he did an analysis of the district, looking at academics, facilities and finances.
We identified several issues, he said. We obtained $400,000 in federal funding and a $100,000 Common School Fund loan. We used that money to gut our computer infrastructure in every building and upgrade it. We are now completely wireless. We completed that in the spring.
Part of improving the instructional education is by updating the technology. The kids are digital natives. We decided to go with Chromebooks. We went from zero Chromebooks to 700 of them. We are halfway there to getting one-to-one computer access, Disney said.
The school district held its first technology boot camp this summer with about 60 teachers attending a three-day intensive workshop.
River Forest also successfully passed a general fund referendum in May 2015, boosting its operating budget. It asked voters to approve a measure to pay 42 cents per $100 of assessed valuation. That meant a homeowner with a house valued at $100,000 would pay about $150 more per year. The impact is approximately $82 more annually on a house valued at $75,000.
Overall, the district expects to generate about $609,000 each year for seven years, based on River Forests tax collection rate of 87 percent.
Disney said the district received its first payment in June and the operating budget is healthy, eliminating the need for cuts.
School leaders also are beefing up the curriculum, increasing the amount of professional development and adding programs.
Disney and Brandon said they have added more career and technical classes at the high school and established an Industrial Maintenance Program in cooperation with Vincennes University and ArcelorMittal.
Not every kid is going to college and getting a four-year degree, Disney said.
There was really no CTE (Career Technical Education) program here. The Gary Career Center wasnt successful, and we pulled out of that. Weve partnered with Merrillville to offer some classes. We have five students from Griffith who are in the CTE program. Some of our students are taking classes in Merrillville.
A couple of years ago, River Forest and the Lake Station Community Schools partnered to create an Alternative School. This year, about 27 students are enrolled in that program to earn their credits and graduate. There are 12 from River Forest and 15 from Edison Jr-Sr High School in Lake Station.
Disney said Brandon is bringing some fresh ideas to the district, including focusing on at-risk students and creating an intense credit recovery program. We are tracking kids through graduation, Disney said.
When Disney began at the school, the graduation rate was 72 percent. He said it is creeping up and now is at 80 percent, and they are working hard to increase the graduation rate.
Brandon said he intends to focus on two areas: school climate and culture, and effective instruction. He said hes working closely with the state outreach coordinator, Jennifer Kwiatkowski, to improve instruction.
For the 2016-17 school year, River Forest has a student enrollment of 1,530 students, up 20 students from the previous year. Of that number, 460 students are enrolled at the high school. The school district has a free/reduced-cost lunch rate of 57.2 percent.
Brandon said 47 percent of the students are Hispanic, about 44 percent are white and 5 percent are black. He said the district is doing more to reach out to its Hispanic population.
River Forest High School algebra teacher Whitney Stanfill, who is in her second year of teaching and previously worked at the Alternative School, said she likes what shes seeing and already has completed several hours of professional development.
The new principal is very involved, she said.
River Forest freshman Joscelyn Tolar moved to Hobart from Ohio a few weeks ago. The teachers seem to really care about you here, she said.
The Hoosier State passenger train is rebuilding ridership a year after the state, Amtrak and some communities served by the Indianapolis-to-Chicago train contracted a private company to operate it.
In September, the four-day-per-week Hoosier State carried 2,428 riders, up 46 percent from 1,663 riders in September 2015, according to Amtrak. It was the fifth straight month for ridership gains.
Ticket revenue also was up in September, totaling $82,324, a 64 percent increase over September 2015s $50,244.
That marked a full year of monthly year-over-year revenue growth.
Background
The Hoosier State, which stops at Dyers Amtrak station, faced shutdown in April 2015 when it appeared efforts by the Indiana Department of Transportation to find a private operator would not bear fruit.
The state pursued the private partnership after it and several communities served by the rail line funded the rail service for several years after the federal government stopped funding short Amtrak lines like the Hoosier State.
In August of 2015, the Indiana Department of Transportation reached agreement with Iowa Pacific Holdings to take control of the rail line. Amtrak continues to provide train crews and ticketing service, and INDOT and Crawfordsville, Rensselaer, Tippecanoe County and West Lafayette continue to provide financial support.
INDOT will receive 25 percent of Iowa Pacifics operating profits if the line becomes profitable.
Whats next
A year ago, the Hoosier State introduced business class service, which includes seating in a business class car, access to a domed lounge car, a hot meal and alcoholic beverages.
Now, INDOT is seeking a contract consultant to provide an analysis of the track infrastructure and signaling to increase the speed and frequency of the Hoosier State train.
The consultant also would provide grant writing services in pursuit of federal grants. Proposals to serve as consultant were due Oct. 25.
PORTER TOWNSHIP Porter County police are investigating two home burglaries reported Sunday.
A resident of a home in the 500 block of County Road 100 South reported to police just after 1 a.m. that someone had broken into their home while the family was away by shattering glass in a back door.
The master bedroom was ransacked with drawers and jewelry boxes open and emptied.
The resident told police 18 to 20 watches, a gold necklace, four rings and some costume jewelry, valued between $20,000 and $25,000, were missing.
Just before 5 p.m. Sunday, a resident in the 200 block of County Road 600 South reported someone broke a window in his garage and took about $600 in tools including saws, drills and an impact wrench.
The homeowner told police the burglary likely happened within the past week.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
By Azad Hasanli Trend:
Azerbaijan will hold a conference to lure investments to the real estate sector, as well as to attract foreign companies to the privatization process in the country.
The conference titled Real Estate Sector Investment will be held in Baku Nov. 23, Shamil Shirinov, head of strategic planning, innovation, monitoring and analysis department of the State Committee on Property Issues of Azerbaijan, said at a press conference in Baku.
He went on to add that during the conference, investors will be able to review the latest reforms on improvement of investment and business environment in Azerbaijan, the reforms impact on the economy, as well as innovations in the sphere of privatization, legislation and measures taken by Azerbaijan to protect investments.
CROWN POINT State and federal agents are looking for evidence of bribery, extortion and fraudulent denial of honest government services in connection with car towing ordered by the Lake County Sheriff's Department.
The Times has obtained a copy of a federal search warrant served Thursday on the Lake County E-911 offices demanding telephone, radio and email data as well as paper documents, including a list of towing firms authorized by county government to tow cars and documents tracking their activity.
State police and FBI agents raided the Lake County Sheriff's Department and descended on Sheriff John Buncich's Crown Point home Thursday before leaving with several boxes of documents from the entrance of the sheriff's office building.
Federal agents also raided a Portage business site, whose owner said was connected to a Merrillville-based towing firm.
Agents served a subpoena seeking documents from the Lake County Voter Registration and Elections Department, which tracks campaign contributions and spending for all candidates for county, township and municipal offices.
They served a search warrant on the E-911 office, which coordinates communications among the public, the county sheriff and 15 municipal police, fire and emergency medical service providers.
The E-911 warrant states the government is looking only for towing data. Lake County elected officials and their lawyers said they are cooperating with federal authorities.
Federal authorities petitioned a federal magistrate Nov. 9 to authorize the E-911 search warrant.
They sought authorization to seize evidence of crimes involving receipt of bribes by an agent of local government, mail or wire fraud of honest services, conspiracy to commit mail or wire fraud, and honest services mail/wire fraud and extortion by state authorities.
The crimes listed could result in felony convictions and long prison sentences.
The warrant identifies what is to be seized as: Data and information contained in the computers and all storage media used by the Lake County E-911 Dispatch Center relating only to Lake County towing from the time period of 2010 to present.
The year 2010 was the last year in office for former Sheriff Roy Dominguez. Sheriff John Buncich has been serving as sheriff since 2011.
County government was in the midst of a financial crisis, because the 2008 recession and state-mandated property tax cuts had cut county government revenues to the point it was prepared to lay off 10 county police officers.
Buncich asked the County Council in 2012 to raise to $75 from $20 the fee the county charges each time a county police officer calls for a towing firm to remove a car on public streets. Buncich said he would use the revenue from those fees to support the endangered officers' salaries and benefits.
Buncich said then he would become more aggressive in towing disabled cars as well as vehicles belonging to targets of his department's gang and drug task forces.
The county collected $220,000 in towing fees last year and $164,000 this year to date from the thousands of cars towed.
GARY A laundry business in the city's Glen Park section was robbed early Saturday by a man with a gun, police said.
An employee at M&M Laundry, 1201 W. Ridge Road in Gary, told police a man came into the business just before 3 a.m. and approached an ATM. The man exited, then re-entered and asked an employee to buy an iPhone, Lt. Dawn Westerfield said.
The 30-year-old employee asked the man to leave the business, and the man pointed a handgun at the employee's stomach, police said.
The man reached into the employee's pants pocket, took a wallet containing cash and fled south on Pierce Street, police said.
Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Sgt. Gregory Wolf at (219) 881-1210. To remain anonymous, call (866) CRIME-GP.
GARY Police called to the citys Glen Park section Saturday for a shooting found a man dead in the street and later learned another man was wounded.
Gary police were dispatched about 9:30 p.m. Saturday to the area of 49th Avenue and Massachusetts Street for a gunshot victim, Lt. Dawn Westerfield said.
As an officer turned into the intersection, he spotted a man lying in the street.
The man, who has not yet been identified, was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.
Police later were called to a local hospital, where a 23-year-old Gary man wounded in the shooting in Glen Park was being treated. The mans wounds could be life-threatening, police said.
A staff member at the Lake County coroners office said Monday the office has not yet released any information about the deceased mans identity or the cause and manner of death.
Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Jeff Minchuk, of the Lake County/Gary Metro Homicide Unit, at (219) 755-3855. To remain anonymous, call (866) CRIME-GP.
VALPARAISO A March 21 trial has been scheduled for a Portage woman accused of arranging a successful murder-for-hire scheme four years ago.
Sheaurice Major, 46, who remains in custody, sat quietly Monday as Porter Superior Court Judge Roger Bradford told attorneys on both sides of the case that this trial date is absolute.
The judges comments came four years after 72-year-old Carl Griffith Sr. was shot outside his Portage home.
Police claim Major hired Gary resident Dontaye Singletary to shoot and kill Griffith on Nov. 1, 2012, because she did not like him. Griffith was an employee of a towing company owned by Majors estranged husband.
Singletary was found guilty in February 2015 and later sentenced to the maximum 65 years behind bars.
Major is charged with murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
Bradford rejected a request from Major in May to prohibit jurors in her case from hearing about Singletarys conviction.
A status hearing is scheduled for March 6.
CHICAGO - There has been little return on the money the Illinois International Port District has invested in Lake Calumet since the 1980s to develop the area, but the Lake Calumet Vision Committee isnt giving up hope.
Ders Anderson of Openlands and Tom Shepherd of the Southeast Environmental Task Force both committee members led a recent tour of one of the peninsulas of the northern portion of the lake, pointing out ways to transform parts of the industrial site into public recreational areas.
A recent financial statement from 2015 reviewing port authority loans showed about $1.2 million lost.
Economically, Anderson concedes, the north end of the lake is probably the worst located piece of property the (Illinois) port authority has.
Anderson, Shepherd and other committee members, however, believe transforming underutilized portions of the lake into public recreation spaces puts the property to greater use for surrounding neighborhoods, such as the adjacent historic Pullman area. Doing so could recoup the debt owed from the original loans, an idea also voiced in 2013 in an amendment to Illinois House Bill 1459.
When you go over there, you wont even know that youre in a city, said Susan Sadowski Garza, Chicagos 10th Ward alderwoman. It is really an amazing natural site that can put this side of the city back on the map.
In addition to Lake Calumet, the Illinois International Port District oversees adjacent operations on the Calumet River, also known as Iroquois Landing. The northern portion of the lake, although dredged and developed for ports, has remained mostly unused, Anderson said.
The transformational project, which likely would be a multimillion dollar operation, would create jobs in developing recreational spaces, Anderson said. The Chicago Park District and Cook County Forest Preserve also have supported recreational uses, Shepherd said.
Thats millions of dollars of investments that creates jobs on a piece of property that has zero jobs, Anderson said. Its vacant and its not really accomplishing anything. If its not going to be used for a port, we dont want to see a lesser use come in here thats not really going to be a great asset to the community.
Anderson explained the committees proposed three-step plan, which first involves initially acquiring the property, whether through purchase or long-term lease.
The second step would include cleaning the site and wildlife restoration. Much of the area is designated as a Brownfield site, a designation defined by the EPA as an area complicated by pollutants and contaminants. A 2014 report from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources discovered pollutants such as lead, arsenic, chromium, thallium and more in the area.
The third step involves developing the property into public recreation areas. Ideas from the committee include a bike trail that connects neighborhoods to the west to Lake Calumet and the new Big Marsh Park, and new areas for fishing and boating.
Mark Carroll of Chicago Composite Initiative sees Lake Calumet as an area for sailboat manufacturing, sailboat use, and rowboat practice and competition.
This body of water has so much potential, Carroll said. You can do rowing or paddling in the same class as youd see in London or Rio.
Anderson, Shepherd and others will continue meetings in upcoming months with the port authority to try and reach an agreement.
Weve been trying now for 15 years and we feel this may be our last chance, Anderson said. They need dollars. In our mind we have the grand bargain. We dont want to have an antagonistic relationship with the board. We want a win-win-win.
Should their plans be approved, the estimated time for development into public recreation could take five to 10 years, Anderson said.
CROWN POINT Mayor David Uran and the City Council recently honored police Officer Michael Brazil for his work involving an incident that occurred at a resident's home in September.
Uran said the residents sisters who live together were scammed by people who said they wanted to do lawn work at their home. A suspect then entered the home and stole some items after the residents were lured outside.
Uran said one positive that came out of the incident that left the residents frightened and emotionally weakened was the actions of Brazil. In a statement read by Uran, the residents said Brazil was amazing, kind and "very patient with us."
"He gave us advice on safety and assured us if we ever feel concerned, to please call," the residents said in their statement.
The residents said Brazil made them feel like he was a lifelong friend who was looking out for them. They said in their statement that Brazil told them he was just doing his job. But they said he wasn't just doing his job.
"He was helping another human being in the best way possible," they said. "He was completely professional, but even more importantly he was the best example of a caring person. A model officer."
Brazil was grateful for the recognition, but said the award he received could be handed out to every police officer in the department for doing their jobs every day.
"We don't chase bad guys all the time," he said. "But we do care for our citizens and serve them and do it in the best way every time possible."
WESTVILLE Bret Stephens, foreign affairs columnist and editor at The Wall Street Journal, is offering his 10 rules for foreign policy to President-elect Donald Trump.
A 2013 Pulitzer Prize winner, Stephens, the guest speaker Sunday afternoon at the Purdue University Northwest Sinai Forum, ruefully conceded they might not be readily accepted.
Hes not exactly known for following the rules, said Stephens, to audience laughter. But maybe this will serve us well in thinking about how Americans look forward to a foreign policy that ... puts order in the disorder today.
Stephens said his first rule is the Larry David rule.
Curb your enthusiasm, Stephens said.
For the last 25 years, Stephens said, U.S. foreign policy has been an exercise in trying to make our dreams come true. Since the fall of the Berlin Wall, the U.S. began to believe that countries were beginning to want to adopt the American liberal democratic way, and as a result, U.S. foreign policy has been an attempt to make amazing things happen.
Foreign policy should not be about making dreams come true, Stephens said. Fundamentally it is about keeping our nightmares away.
Another of Stephens rules is the Vegas rule that what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas which has no application whatsoever to foreign policy, he said.
The United States cannot take the stance lets ignore the Middle East and it will ignore us, Stephens said.
The idea we can isolate ourselves from the rest of the world ... is a fantasy, he said.
Stephens related that President Richard Nixon used to tell advisers that to keep world peace, Russian leader Leonid Brezhnev needed to think Nixon was a little bit crazy, which outlines his Nixon rule.
I think we have no problems in this department, Stephens said, provoking audience laughter again.
If adversaries think you are totally predictable ... they will walk all over you, Stephens said. If they suspect you might be nuts ... theyll be more careful.
Nixon also stressed the importance of American credibility, he said. In 1973, at height of Watergate crisis, Israel was under attack and was desperate for help. Nixon responded by saying whatever Israels wanted double it and send it to them right away.
This proved, said Stephens, that in the midst of U.S. troubles, the U.S. was an incredible partner and ally for small countries like Israel.
When you demonstrate youre a credible ally, your adversaries may turn to you because they think your friendship is good, Stephens said. Remember the Nixon rule credibility counts.
Stephens also described his William Bratton rule, named after the recently retired New York City police commissioner who espoused a broken windows philosophy toward crime prevention cracking down and preventing small crimes, such as vandalism prevents larger, more violent ones.
This is also true of foreign policy. Its best to create a perception that there are rules to govern the free and civilized world, and the U.S. is willing to defend them, he said.
Stephens ended his talk decrying the train of thought that the United States is a country on the decline.
Have real faith in the resilience of this country, our ability to rebound from failure, Stephens said. This country is going to be the worlds leading power for the rest of your lives, and we need a foreign policy that is adequate to that task.
HOBART Former City Councilman Matt Claussen brought class and honesty to the panel he served on for more than 20 years, city officials said.
Claussen, who recently resigned from the council, was honored by the city for the contributions he made during his tenure on the panel.
Mayor Brian Snedecor said Claussen put the city first when making decisions and he always has been fair.
Claussen, a Hobart police officer, resigned from his council position after unsuccessfully challenging a state law forbidding municipal employees from holding elective offices in the same local government unit.
Dan Waldrop was selected to fulfill the remainder of Claussens term on the council.
Former Mayor Linda Buzinec said she has been friends with Claussen for decades. She said he has worked diligently for the city, and its unfortunate he has to leave the panel under the circumstances.
Many indicated the council is losing valuable insight with Claussen no longer on the panel. Several Hobart officials believe the state law is unfair to the city.
He should still be sitting here as far as Im concerned, Waldrop said.
City Attorney Anthony DeBonis said Claussen showed a lot of class while he served on the council. Multiple councilmen said Claussen was the person they turned to for guidance because of his experience.
Clerk-Treasurer Deborah Longer said her saddest day in office came when Claussen submitted his resignation letter.
She said although he is no longer on the council, Claussen wont stop being a public servant.
Claussen also indicated he will remain involved in Hobart.
I aint going nowhere, he said.
Claussen said he plans to retire from the Police Department in a year and a half, and that will open doors for what he could do in the future.
As Claussen was being honored, he was given a plaque commemorating his service. The city also presented him with a shadow box containing his council picture and nameplate.
PORTAGE Metropolitan Community Church Illiana will host a Transgender Day of Remembrance Vigil at 7 p.m. Sunday at 5579 Clem Road. The vigil memorializes those who were killed due to anti-transgender hatred or prejudice.
The event is held in November to honor Rita Hester, whose murder on Nov. 28, 1998, in Boston, Massachusetts, which kicked off the Remembering Our Dead web project and a San Francisco candlelight vigil in 1999. According to the Human Rights Campaign, there have been at least 18 transgender people murdered nationwide this year.
Hesters murder like most anti-transgender murder cases has yet to be solved, according to a news release from Metropolitan Community Church Illiana.
The Rev. Michael Cooper, pastor of MCC Illiana, said those who reconcile bodies and lives into the fullness of Gods creation continue to face the horrors of anti-transgender hatred and prejudice.
The vigil will offer a safe space to honor transgender individuals who were murdered this year and several transgender and gender-queer persons will be speaking about their experiences of discrimination in Northwest Indiana, according to the release.
The ways we find transgender people who have been murdered is very violent. As a transgender man, I find it difficult and scary sometimes to be myself and out about being transgender. Here in NWI, especially in the area I live in, I find myself hiding. It is time to step out to help end the violence, said Aleckz Bendt, of Portage.
The current political backlash following significant human rights advances in the lesbian, gay, and bi communities has targeted many in the transgender community.
I think its obvious that the current push by anti-LGBT groups to re-marginalize us by publicizing outright lies is resulting in more murders of transgender people said Marilu Fanning, a trans activist from Lake Station.
MCC Illiana is a Christian church in the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities of NWI. The event is free and open to the public.
WASHINGTON To many voters who proudly wore pantsuits to the polls and expected to celebrate history with Hillary Clinton's election, the likelihood of a woman becoming America's commander in chief seems more remote than ever.
Clinton's supporters are struggling to come to terms with the reality that the first female presidential nominee won't be the one to shatter what she calls the "highest and hardest glass ceiling." Clinton, looking shell-shocked herself, tried to reassure them that it would only be a matter of time.
"Someday," Clinton said in her concession speech Wednesday, "someone will, and hopefully sooner than we might think."
But if not Clinton, then who will it be?
"In many ways it's ironic because people were looking for a change election, and the real change we could have seen in our democracy was not realized," said Debbie Walsh, director of the Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University.
Not only will the highest office in the land remain out of women's reach for now, Walsh said, but the number of female members of Congress will remain the same after this election, stalled at 104.
There will be one more woman in the Senate, bringing the total to 21. In the House of Representatives, the number of women will go down by one, to 83.
And there will be fewer female governors nationwide, down to five from six. Only one woman won a gubernatorial contest on Tuesday: incumbent Kate Brown in Oregon.
The relatively small pool of female governors and senators leaves few women well-positioned to run for president, Walsh said.
"I want to believe we are ready to vote for a woman president," Walsh said. "This seemed like it was the moment, and I'm not sure who's next in line."
Presidential candidates could eventually emerge from among the rising stars who did triumph Tuesday.
Democratic Rep. Tammy Duckworth, a military veteran who lost her legs in Iraq, defeated Republican Sen. Mark Kirk in Illinois. Democrat Kamala Harris, the multiracial daughter of immigrants, won a Senate seat in California. Voters also elected the first Latina senator, Democrat Catherine Cortez Masto, in Nevada.
Delaware elected its first woman in either chamber of Congress: Democrat Lisa Blunt Rochester, who is black. Voters in Washington state elected the first Indian-American woman to Congress, Democrat Pramila Jayapal.
Democrat Nanette Barragan, a Latina from Southern California, won a seat in Congress. Republican Liz Cheney, in Wyoming, became the first woman elected to the House seat once held by her father, former Vice President Dick Cheney.
In all, four more women of color will serve in the next Congress than served in the last.
Democratic Sen. Claire McCaskill of Missouri, who campaigned for Clinton, said that while Clinton's loss was disappointing for many women, it was also motivating. McCaskill still expects to see a woman become president in her lifetime.
"I'm really optimistic on that front," said McCaskill, who is 63. "I really have seen such progress in terms of women being taken seriously in public service."
While sexism may have played a role in some voters' rejection of Clinton, McCaskill said, her gender didn't doom her candidacy.
"I mean, she won the popular vote," the senator said. "A woman running for president got more votes than the man did. I really do believe that America is ready for a woman president."
Trump's approach to women's rights over the next few years could be very motivating for women, depending on how he handles public policy and his personality, McCaskill said.
"I have been frankly shocked at how many people have reached me over the last 48 hours women, primarily asking what can we do, where should we go, who can we help?"
For her part, McCaskill said, she will focus on recruiting more women to run for office in her home state and nationwide. The senator declined, however, to identify any potential presidential candidates from among her fellow female politicians.
"It would be like choosing between my two sisters," she laughed.
McCaskill said there were a number of qualified women serving alongside her in the Senate and in governorships.
On the Democratic side, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand from New York has built a national profile advocating on behalf of sexual assault victims on campus and in the military. She's also worked to raise money for female candidates across the country. And at 49, she's relatively young.
Liberal star Elizabeth Warren, who made her name in the battle to overhaul Wall Street, also is well positioned to run for president. She's a senator from a large state, Massachusetts, and has developed a strong reputation as a fighter for the working and middle classes.
Some Democrats would love to see first lady Michelle Obama run for president someday, but she says she will not seek any public office.
Republican Nikki Haley, the Indian-American governor of South Carolina, could be a presidential contender. Her leadership after the fatal shooting of black South Carolinians in Charleston last year drew widespread praise and raised her profile nationally.
The star power of Joni Ernst, the up-and-coming conservative senator from Iowa, has been evident on the campaign trail this year as she rallied voters for Trump and other Republicans. A former lieutenant colonel in the Iowa National Guard, Ernst's name frequently pops up as a possible presidential candidate in 2020 or 2024.
Vicky Hartzler, a Republican congresswoman from Missouri, added the name of conservative businesswoman Carly Fiorina to the list. Fiorina lost her bid for the Republican nomination this cycle, but she impressed Hartzler.
"I think there will be opportunities (for a woman to become president) in the future," Hartzler said, "but most importantly, they need to be chosen on their qualifications as well as their policy solutions that our country is facing."
Clinton, Hartzler argued, wasn't unqualified because of her gender but because she's untrustworthy and her policies would have been disastrous for America.
Walsh, on the other hand, believes Clinton's gender did play a role in her defeat.
Polls found the majority of voters thought Trump wasn't qualified, that he didn't have the right temperament to be president, and yet people voted for him anyway, Walsh said.
"I don't think everybody who voted for Donald Trump was thinking, 'I don't think a woman can do this job,' but I think there is this subliminal piece: 'Who do I think can be a leader? What does a leader look like? Who can be president?'" Walsh said.
"There is no job that is more masculine than the presidency, going back to George Washington on his white steed," she said. "And ultimately, when a woman runs for this job, it's about disrupting the notion about who can lead at the highest level."
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
By Anvar Mammadov Trend:
Azerbaijan Railways CJSC (ADY) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) discussed the implementation of projects on the international transport corridors passing through Azerbaijan, as well as the long-term tasks.
The discussions were held in the meeting of ADY Head Javid Gurbanov with ADB Vice President Wencai Zhang, responsible for operations in the ADB South Asia Department and the Central and West Asia Department, who is on a visit to Baku, the ADY said in a message Nov. 14.
Gurbanov informed Zhang about the reforms and activities carried out for reconstruction of infrastructure of Azerbaijans railways.
The sides also discussed medium-term prospects and priorities of cooperation, as well as further expansion of relations.
The ADB will consider allocating a $200-million loan for implementation of the International North-South Transportation Corridor. The bank management will review the project Apr. 15, 2017.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner's vision of a swift, post-election budget compromise is off to a rocky start after a key Democratic leader cited a last-minute "schedule conflict" as the reason for missing a meeting the Republican governor requested.
Republican leaders who met with Rauner on Monday blasted Democrats for their absence and said they need to be engaged to move forward.
"It is completely inexcusable," said Republican Sen. Christine Radogno, the GOP's Senate leader.
Rauner said last week he was "cautiously optimistic" when he asked House and Senate leaders to meet to begin work on ending a 16-month budget standoff but the absence of ruling Democrats shows how challenging it continues to be to find compromise.
The political standoff has led to cuts to social service providers, some of whom have shut down altogether, and an uncertain future for higher education institutions that are receiving less funding than they have in the past.
The governor called the meeting days after the results from Election Day, when Republicans diminished the Democrats' numbers in the Legislature with Rauner's financial backing. The day before the meeting was set to take place, Rauner got a response from Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan.
"A short time ago, I determined a schedule conflict will prevent a meeting with the governor and other legislative leaders," Madigan said in a statement Sunday evening. "We will continue to work to schedule a meeting and look forward to getting an agenda for the meeting from the governor."
Madigan did not provide details of the conflict.
"I can't imagine what conflict is more important than the challenges facing the people of this state," Radogno said.
After Madigan's announcement, Senate President John Cullerton bowed out, saying the meeting wouldn't be productive without everyone there. He said he hoped the meeting could be reschedule for Tuesday.
Last December, Madigan also said a scheduling conflict kept him from attending one of the governor's budget meetings. He didn't say what the conflict was then, either.
Lawmakers return to Springfield on Tuesday for a brief, annual fall session after one of the most expensive and contentious election cycles in Illinois history. Rauner used about $30 million of his personal wealth to support GOP candidates in last week's elections, giving money to both political committees and individuals, forcing Democrats to raise unprecedented amounts of money to compete with his millions.
Although Republicans made gains in the Legislature, Democrats still have considerable majorities in each chamber and have resisted Rauner's demands for union-weakening, business-friendly legislation as part of any budget deal. Rauner has argued his ideas are a meant to grow the state's economy, but Democrats have said his policies would harm middle-class families.
NEW YORK - Protests against the outcome of the 2016 election continue in major cities across the U.S. as President-elect Donald Trump begins to select key members for his White House staff and prepare policy.
In his first extensive interview since becoming President-elect, Trump appeared to back away from his hard-line campaign promise of a wall along the Mexican border and deportations.
The Republican said he plans to deport or incarcerate 2.3 million people who have criminal records and are living in the U.S. illegally.
"What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people, probably two million, it could be even three million, we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate. But we're getting them out of our country, they're here illegally. After the border is secure and after everything gets normalized, we're going to make a determination on the people that they're talking about who are terrific people, they're terrific people but we are going make a determination at that But before we make that determination Lesley, it's very important, we are going to secure our border," Trump said.
When pressed about a solid border wall, Trump said he still plans to build it but appeared to be open to fencing as well.
"For certain areas I would, but certain areas a wall is more appropriate. I'm very good at this. This is called construction but a fence would be, yeah part wall, part fence," Trump said.
Trump also renewed his promise to cuts taxes, appoint pro-life judges to the Supreme Court, and take out the Islamic State militant group.
Before the "60 Minutes" interview aired, Trump's team made two major staffing announcements.
Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus has been tapped for White House Chief of Staff.
Preibus has a strong knowledge of the Washington establishment and is a close friend of House Speaker Paul Ryan.
As Chief of Staff, Preibus will have a significant role in policymaking and serve as a liaison to Cabinet agencies.
Trump also announced that Stephen Bannon will serve as his chief strategist and senior counselor.
Bannon is an executive with the conservative Breitbart News organization and served as Trump's campaign CEO.
Immigrants and their supporters gathered in Manhattan on Sunday to protest Trump's policies.
Hundreds of people marched from the Trump International Hotel in Columbus Circle to Trump Tower to denounce the president-elect's proposed immigration crackdown.
The immigrant advocacy group, Make the Road NY, organized the "Here to Stay" march.
"People have the right to stay here and just because they're immigrants doesn't mean they can't stay here. They have not done nothing wrong to him or to anybody. And we all have the right to stay here no matter what color or race, we're all equal," said one protester.
"It's everything. It's sexism, it's racism for sure. It's you know, class. I think he represents everything that's sort of important in America," said another protester.
Anti-Trump demonstrations have been taking over the streets of Manhattan since the election last Tuesday.
At Rockefeller Center on Sunday, milling outside Christies sales rooms where private clients sipped mimosas as they took in one of Monets grainstacks people in the art world sounded guardedly optimistic about how the auctions will perform this week, after a period of uncertainty exacerbated by the contentious American presidential election, Britains Brexit vote in June and Chinas slowing economy.
There has been a lot of insecurity and its hard to say exactly what will happen, said Jay Gorney, a collector, curator and former dealer, predicting that good things will do extremely well.
The sales of Impressionist, Modern and contemporary art that start Monday offer the first test of how the art market will react to a Trump presidency and whether it will continue a softening trend that, for the past year, has had potential sellers reluctant to consign their best works.
If youve got something great, you dont sell it because youre uncertain what youre going to get for it, said J. Tomilson Hill, the vice chairman at the Blackstone Group and art collector, about the prevailing mood. Sellers are largely sitting on their hands.
There is talk of Breitbart bureaus opening in Paris, Berlin and Cairo, spots where the populist right is on the rise. A bigger newsroom is coming in Washington, the better to cover a president-elect whose candidacy it embraced.
Mainstream news outlets are soul-searching in the wake of being shocked by Donald J. Trumps election last week. But the team at Breitbart News, the right-wing opinion and news website that some critics have denounced as a hate site, is elated and eager to expand on a victory that it views as a profound validation of its cause.
So much of the media mocked us, laughed at us, called us all sorts of names, Alexander Marlow, the sites editor in chief, said in an interview on Sunday. And then for us to be seen as integral to the election of a president, despite all of that hatred, is something that we certainly enjoy, and savor.
Breitbart not only championed Mr. Trump; its chairman, Stephen K. Bannon, helped run his campaign. On Sunday, Mr. Trump named Mr. Bannon as his chief White House strategist and senior counselor, further closing the distance between Breitbarts newsroom and the president-elect.
WESTPORT, Conn. Newmans Own was having trouble getting the word out about its philanthropy.
The brand has All Profits to Charity inscribed across every label on its popular salad dressings, tomato sauces and microwaveable popcorn a pledge that has amounted to more than $485 million donated since 1982.
But some wondered if consumers were simply being distracted by the movie star Paul Newmans dazzling smile.
They might see it the first time, but the second or third time they only see Pauls face, said Bruce Bruemmer, vice president of marketing for Newmans Own. The All Profits to Charity is lost.
Well, the grin is not going anywhere. But Newmans Own is making more of a show of its record of magnanimity, rolling out a marketing initiative aimed at millennials who might not recognize the famous face of the brand and might have little to no knowledge of its altruistic story.
It was mid-June, and relations between Donald J. Trump and the news media had taken another dreadful turn. He had already vowed to change the libel laws to make it easier to sue journalists, and his personal insults were becoming more vicious. (One news correspondent was a sleaze; another was third rate.)
Most troubling was that he was keeping a blacklist of news organizations he was banning from his rallies, and it was growing.
I called him at the time, to see what this would look like in a Trump administration. Would he deny White House credentials to select reporters and news organizations?
No, he said. There, Im taking something away, where Im representing the nation.
We can only hope he means it. Because if Mr. Trump keeps up the posture he displayed during the campaign all-out war footing the future will hold some very grim days, not just for news reporters but also for the American constitutional system that relies on a free and strong press.
For all its imagination about the future, Silicon Valleys geography looks a lot like the past. Todays college-educated millennials might be crowding into city centers, but each day employees at companies like Google and Facebook endure hours in cars or on buses commuting to squat office complexes that have all the charm of a Walmart.
Bullet Train to Nowhere : Construction of the California high-speed rail system, Americas most ambitious infrastructure project, Construction of the California high-speed rail system, Americas most ambitious infrastructure project, has become a multi-billion-dollar nightmare
A Piece of Black History Destroyed: Lincoln Heights a historically Black community in a predominantly white, rural county in Northern California endured for decades. Lincoln Heights a historically Black community in a predominantly white, rural county in Northern California endured for decades. Then came the Mill fire
Warehouse Moratorium: As warehouse construction balloons nationwide, residents in communities both rural and urban have pushed back. In Californias Inland Empire, As warehouse construction balloons nationwide, residents in communities both rural and urban have pushed back. In Californias Inland Empire, the anger has turned to widespread action
Many employees say they would prefer to live closer to work. But these companies reside in small cities that consider themselves suburbs, and the local politics are usually aligned against building dense urban apartments to house them.
Take Palo Alto, the Silicon Valley city that has become emblematic of the states reputation for rampant not-in-my-backyard politics. Palo Alto has one of the states worst housing shortages. With about three jobs for every housing unit, it has among the most out-of-balance mixes anywhere in Silicon Valley.
But instead of dealing with this issue by building the few thousand or so apartments it would take to make a dent in the problem, the city has mostly looked to restraining a pace of job growth that the mayor described as unhealthy.
Farther up the peninsula near San Francisco, the small city of Brisbane told a developer that its proposal for a mixed-use development with offices and 4,000 housing units should have offices for about 15,000 workers, but no new housing.
Play that out a thousand times over and the crux of the states housing crisis is clear: Everyone knows housing costs are unsustainable and unfair, and that they pose a threat to the states economy. Yet every city seems to be counting on its neighbors to step up and fix it.
_________
The word gaffe has appeared in 95 New York Times articles in the past year, including on Sept. 20 in Another Slip for the Libertarian Nominee, Gary Johnson: Nobody Got Hurt by Katie Rogers:
Gary Johnson, the Libertarian Party presidential candidate, who has struggled in recent weeks to recover from a gaffe in which he was unable to identify Aleppo, in war-torn Syria, appeared to fumble once more on Sunday when he said no one had been injured in two violent events in New York City and Minnesota over the weekend.
Well, first of all, just grateful that nobody got hurt, Mr. Johnson told CNNs Brian Stelter in an appearance on the networks Reliable Sources.
In fact, 29 people were injured in an explosion in New Yorks Chelsea neighborhood on Saturday, and nine people were stabbed in St. Cloud, Minn., before the suspect was shot and killed by an off-duty police officer.
Article: Protesters Take Anti-Trump Message to His Doorstep, and Plan Next Steps
Before Reading
What have you heard or read about protests against President-elect Donald J. Trump that took place in the past few days?
Look at the photographs from various demonstrations. How do you feel when you look at the images? How do you think a person who holds an opposing viewpoint to yours might feel while looking at the same images?
Questions for Comprehension and Analysis
1. Where in the United States did demonstrators gather in recent days?
2. What did they protest?
3. What does the article identify as some of the issues people in the crowds spoke and carried signs about?
Saudi Energy Minister Khalid Falih urged the members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to reach consensus on oil market stabilization during the meeting in Vienna on November 30, Sputnik reported.
Falih stressed the importance of arriving at a fair and balanced decision and allow Libya and Nigeria to increase the oil output after establishing stability and security in these countries and freezing the output in Iran to an agreed level.
"In this situation marked by a disruption in oil markets, it is imperative to reach a consensus among OPECs countries and to agree on an effective mechanism and accurate figures to activate the historic agreement of Algiers concluded at the end of September in the OPECs extraordinary meeting," Falih was quoted as saying by the Algeria's APS news agency.
On September 28, the OPEC member states reached an agreement on the sidelines of an international energy forum in Algeria to set a production ceiling of 32.5-33 million barrels per day.
The OPEC countries are set to finalize the agreement on oil output freeze at the OPEC summit in Vienna on November 30. The move has been driven by plunging oil prices and an oversupply in the global energy market.
Good morning on this shining Monday.
But lets focus for a bit on the moon instead of the sun. The biggest and brightest full moon in nearly 70 years has been moving across our sky.
A supermoon, as its known, is when a full moon is at its perigee the closest point to Earth along its orbit.
(This particular supermoon experience is extra rare: Its the closest full moon since 1948.)
If you slept through the exact moment of the perigee (6:22 a.m.), dont fret: You can still catch the spectacle tonight, when the moon will look about 7 percent bigger and 15 percent brighter than usual.
Not super enough for you? Then enhance the experience.
Look for the moon when it floats above the horizon (around 5:14 p.m.), said David Kipping, a professor of astronomy at Columbia University. Because of an optical illusion, the moon will appear larger, and possibly more colorful.
Like a little crew of old-time bandits, the first few raccoon faces poked out of the underbrush on a recent evening in Central Park, their masked, button eyes glowing with each flash of a smartphone camera. Undaunted, several of the animals scuttled onto the walkway toward the picture takers. They were followed by more raccoons and then still more.
All told, 22 raccoons clustered on a path near the southeastern edge of the park, where it meets 59th Street in Manhattan. They strolled around while a gaggle of onlookers tried to pose for selfies with them. Some people fed the animals soft pretzels from a pushcart by hand, as the raccoons stood on their hind legs to wrest morsels from their admirers fingertips.
Is this normal? Karen Newis, 56, a visitor from Greensboro, N.C., asked her sister Stefanie Price, who lives in Manhattan, as they passed the raccoons. One of the animals gingerly tiptoed toward a baby in a stroller, sniffing.
No, its not normal, Ms. Price, 48, said. Theyre so cute, though.
In fact, the throng of raccoons at the edge of the Pond in Central Park has become something of a tourist attraction, with unofficial visiting hours each evening. Roly-poly with their winter fur (and, perhaps, all those pretzels), in pairs or in dozens, the nocturnal animals gambol on the pathway as soon as it gets dark. They look for passers-by with snacks. The practice of feeding them, however Instagram-worthy, is frowned upon by New York Citys parks department and wildlife experts.
Interpol, the international law enforcement agency, has had a history of allowing its international database of fugitives to be used by authoritarian governments to persecute dissidents and critics. It is therefore deeply troubling that a senior Chinese security official will become the organizations next president.
Interpol announced last week that Meng Hongwei, Chinas vice minister of public security, was elected by members of the agencys general assembly to serve as president for a four-year term. He is the first Chinese official to lead the agency.
Human rights lawyers and activists in China have been persecuted by the authorities for years. Some have been detained and harassed; dozens have been held in secret prisons without access to lawyers, according to Human Rights Watch.
The appointment of Meng Hongwei is alarming given Chinas longstanding practice of trying to use Interpol to arrest dissidents and refugees abroad, Nicholas Bequelin, East Asia director of Amnesty International, said in a statement. It seems at odds with Interpols mandate to work in the spirit of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Two months after tumultuous legislative elections, and two years after the pro-democracy Umbrella Movement paralyzed the city center, Hong Kong is in the throes of another great political crisis.
Last Monday, the Chinese government intervened in the territorys political affairs in an unprecedented way. Brazenly exploiting a technicality, and to the extreme, it barred two young legislators-elect who advocate for greater freedoms for Hong Kong from taking their seats.
The night before, demonstrators had briefly turned the cramped area around Beijings Central Liaison Office in Hong Kong into a battleground reminiscent of the worst of the 2014 protests, replete with police batons and tear gas. They had anticipated the bomb that was about to go off: By interfering in a case against two lawmakers brought by the Hong Kong government before a local court, Beijing demonstrated with one single gesture that it was ready to quash any electoral outcomes in Hong Kong that displeased it, to subordinate Hong Kongs legislature to its executive branch and to subdue its judiciary, which has a reputation for independent-mindedness.
Hong Kong voters breached a floodgate in September with the election for the local legislature, known as LegCo, and now Beijing wants to close it at all costs. A group of young candidates with separatist leanings won half a dozen seats in LegCo, having campaigned on platforms that went well beyond what protesters in the Umbrella Movement ever demanded from rewriting the Basic Law, Hong Kongs mini-constitution since 1997, in order to cement Hong Kongs autonomy, to self-determination or even outright secession from China. Last week, the empire struck back.
PARIS Last Wednesday, as the world sought to absorb the news of Donald J. Trumps electoral triumph, Frances far-right leader Marine Le Pen was up early, already commenting on Twitter. Even before the American president-elect gave his victory speech, she rushed to congratulate him and the free American people. This was hardly surprising, since Ms. Le Pen, the leader of the National Front, is hoping to become the next French president.
On Wednesday evening, we watched her holding forth on mainstream television news, where she has not been a regular guest. Most journalists have as little sympathy for her as she has for them, and she had been staying out of the public eye over the past 10 months, working hard to build an electoral strategy. During the period between Frances regional elections last December, when her party scored 27 percent of the popular vote but failed to win control of any region, and the presidential election next spring, she has set herself a single goal: to build enough respectability to shatter the so-called republican front through which mainstream parties unite in the second round of a French election to prevent the National Front from winning.
Ms. Le Pen, 48, has worked patiently to transform her party from a marginal extremist movement into an organization able to seize and exercise power. Now she needs to ramp up the frustration among French citizens, which has already propelled her to the top of opinion polls ahead of the first round of presidential voting on April 23, into a force powerful enough to break the barrier of conventional politics and push her through to victory in the second round, scheduled for May 7.
She is emboldened by Mr. Trumps upset of Hillary Clinton, which she thinks has significantly enhanced her chances of achieving just that. What the president-elect has done, she said on French public television, has been to prove that what was presented as impossible can be made possible. Now she confidently says she believes that it can also happen here that France in 2017 will provide the third stage of a global political uprising begun by Brexit and reinforced by Mr. Trumps victory.
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For thousands of public servants Democrat, Republican and independent the election of Donald Trump creates a deep quandary: Should I stay or should I go?
These are the men and women around the country who work for the Justice Department, the Education Department, the Defense Department, the Environmental Protection Agency, and so much else. Many of them, no doubt, voted for Trump. But many of them are in despair, worried not only about their country but about how their own jobs will change and about their own moral responsibilities.
My answer to the vast majority of them is: We need you.
We need your professionalism, your expertise, your respect for democratic norms and American values. Stay on. Stay on, please, for your country.
Institutions are largely urban. The federal government is in Washington, D.C.. The financial center is in New York. New York is also the publishing capital and home to cable and broadcast news. Hollywood is in California. Our Ivy League schools are in a handful of Northeastern states. Our most influential cultural institutions museums, performance companies and spaces, music studios are in big cities. The same can be said for our most influential newspapers.
Furthermore, there are two complementary and compounding internal migratory patterns that exacerbate the divide: At the same time that young people are moving out of rural areas and into urban ones, a 2009 United States Department of Agriculture report pointed out that members of the baby boom cohort, now 45-63 years old, are approaching a period in their lives when moves to rural and small-town destinations increase.
This makes the places these people are leaving and the places theyre going both more homogeneous. Young people tend to be more liberal as well as more educated. Baby boomers are more conservative. In fact, a 2015 Gallup report found that older generations have twice as many conservatives as liberals.
Add to this brain drain the diversity factor in cities. As the International Business Times pointed out in 2011:
Non-Hispanic whites are now minority in 22 of the countrys 100-biggest urban areas, including those surrounding Washington, New York, San Diego, Las Vegas and Memphis. The reversal is being fueled by a growth in Hispanic and Asian populations they grew by 41 and 43 percent, respectively and the fact that white populations have grown by less than one percent.
Furthermore, urban areas, rather than rural ones, are magnets for new immigrants from other countries and, as a 2014 Pew Research report found, this immigrant population is exploding, providing fertile ground for appeals to rural whites experiencing or worried about economic distress and looking for easy scapegoats for their anxieties:
In 1990, the U.S. had 19.8 million immigrants. That number rose to a record 40.7 million immigrants in 2012, among them 11.7 million unauthorized immigrants.
So, rural whites are suspicious of big institutions and big government, located in big cities with big populations of people who dont look like them.
People in big cities, living cosmopolitan lives among diverse populations that resemble a tub of rainbow-colored ice cream, may be weary of institutions for other reasons, but they are less likely to blame diversity and inclusion for their problems, and are therefore less amenable to the destructive message of Donald Trump.
The Fresh co-founders Lev Glazman and Alina Roytberg have always infused their skin and body line with food-based ingredients, from antioxidant-rich acai and exfoliating brown sugar to free-radical-fighting fermented black tea. So it should come as no surprise that they harbor culinary ambitions. Weve always dreamed about creating a business directly connected to food, Roytberg says. And now they have, with the recent opening of the kitchen, bakery and cafe Bartlett House, which serves farm-to-table fare, with a focus on local ingredients and sustainable practices.
Located on an acre of land along Route 66 in Ghent, N.Y., the four-story, 19th-century house is a national landmark building that once functioned as a hotel, but has stood vacant in more recent years. Glazman stumbled upon it with his partner, Damien Janowicz, during a drive to upstate New York last spring and just had a good feeling about it. With Roytberg, the trio decided to reopen the Bartlett House as a community-oriented culinary hub and keep its original name. Their vision included installing a modern kitchen and bakery on the ground floor with large windows where visitors can watch bakers knead dough and chefs chop vegetables for seasonal soups. The floor above is devoted to a cafe and dining space, while the third level will soon be transformed into a test kitchen and culinary gathering spot for workshops and events.
The latest initiative was announced this month in the San Joaquin Valley. There, a coalition of education leaders crafted a program that would provide a free semester of community college to high school students who meet academic goals, followed by guaranteed admission to California State University, Fresno.
Similar programs have been created in San Diego, Los Angeles, Oakland and Siskiyou County. The costs have been met with a mix of government grants and support from businesses, charities and the colleges themselves.
Critics of the move toward free community college have argued that the programs would strain public budgets and that aid should rather be narrowly targeted toward needy students.
Californias 113 community colleges have become an increasingly attractive option for families looking for alternatives to the states public universities, where academic competition has grown fierce and tuitions have tripled since 2000.
The University of Californias undergraduate tuition and fees are now roughly $13,500 a year for in-state students and $40,000 for out-of-staters, well above the national averages for public universities.
WASHINGTON Michelle Obama has burned off her date-night meals at Washingtons new generation of acclaimed restaurants by pedaling at SoulCycle. President Obama has shopped for Jonathan Franzen novels with his daughters at local independent bookstores. Obama administration staff members, their barhopping chronicled in the gossip pages, have hit the 14th Street hot spots hard.
Decades ago, Washington was broke and run by a mayor best known for smoking crack with a friend on a surveillance tape. Neighborhoods had not fully recovered from the 1968 riots, and an aging Georgetown elite still set the tone. The administrations of two Bushes and a Clinton in between hardly had an effect on the city.
But Mr. Obamas arrival in 2009 coincided with an urban renaissance. Economic development, federal and private investment, and an influx of highly educated young, gay and diverse professionals gentrified neighborhoods, leading to an explosion in restaurants, bars and cafes. And the Obama family African-American, youthful, attractive and urbane were archetypes of a modern city on the upswing.
What the effect on Washington will be when Donald J. Trump moves into the White House is hard to predict. But many Washingtonians fear the worst. Among them is Vincent Gray, the citys mayor during much of the Obama administration.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov.14
By Leman Zeynalova Trend:
Donald Trump could have a strategic, economic and geopolitical interest in the South Caucasus region, Cyril Widdershoven, Middle East geopolitical specialist and energy analyst, partner at Dutch risk consultancy VEROCY and SVP MEA-Risk, told Trend Nov.14.
Based on the statements made by Trump, putting American interests first, this would mean that he will have a strategic, economic and geopolitical interest in the region, he said.
Noting that the South Caucasus region is of the utmost importance for the US, the expert pointed out that major oil and gas companies are working in Azerbaijan.
Regarding the US support for such energy projects as the Southern Gas Corridor, Widdershoven said that European energy supply is also of importance to the US, as they have been pushing for oil and gas exports.
The Southern Gas Corridor is one of the priority energy projects for the EU. It envisages the transportation of 10 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian region to the European countries through Georgia and Turkey.
US-EU cooperation is and will be strong, so European views will be taken into account, he said, adding that a possible strategic support of the Eastern European countries, Baltic and Balkan, would mean that Russia's plans could still be under threat.
The love between Putin and Trump could be soon over. Support from Russia is not always taken positively inside of the US, said the expert, adding that Russia's stranglehold on EU is not an easy thing to swallow for an American president, also not for Trump.
Chelsea Manning, who confessed to disclosing archives of secret diplomatic and military documents to WikiLeaks in 2010 and has been incarcerated longer than any other convicted leaker in American history, has formally petitioned President Obama to reduce the remainder of her 35-year sentence to the more than six years she has already served.
In a statement accompanying her petition, a copy of which her lawyer provided to The New York Times, Ms. Manning again said she took full and complete responsibility for her actions, which she called wrong. She also described her difficult life, including the turmoil she faced at the time of her leaks as she came to grips with gender dysphoria while deployed to Iraq, her treatment in prison, and her multiple suicide attempts.
I am not asking for a pardon of my conviction, she wrote. I understand that the various collateral consequences of the court-martial conviction will stay on my record forever. The sole relief I am asking for is to be released from military prison after serving six years of confinement as a person who did not intend to harm the interests of the United States or harm any service members.
Ms. Mannings petition was accompanied by letters of support from Daniel Ellsberg, who is famous for leaking a classified history of the Vietnam War known as the Pentagon Papers; Morris Davis, a former military commissions chief prosecutor; and Glenn Greenwald, a legal commentator and journalist who has been an outspoken supporter.
Hate crimes surge, led by attacks on Muslims.
The F.B.I. reported Monday that attacks against American Muslims rose last year, driving an increase of about 7 percent in hate crimes against all victims.
The data, the most comprehensive look at threat crimes nationwide, expanded on previous findings by researchers and outside monitors, who have noted an alarming rise in some types of hate crimes tied to the intense vitriol of the presidential campaign and the aftermath of terror attacks at home and abroad since 2015.
A wave of racially charged assaults, graffiti attacks and other episodes has swept the country since Election Day, prompting Mr. Trump to call for a halt to it during a 60 Minutes interview broadcast on Sunday night.
In its report Monday, the F.B.I. cataloged a total of 5,818 hate crimes in 2015 a rise of nearly 340 over the year before including assaults, bombings, threats and property destruction against minorities, women, gays and others.
Attacks against Muslim Americans saw the biggest surge: 257 reports of assaults, attacks on mosques and other types hate crimes against Muslims last year, a jump of about 67 percent over the year before. It was the highest total since 2001, when the aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks saw more than 480 attacks.
Attacks against transgender people also sharply increased, the data showed.
Law enforcement officials acknowledge that the statistics give an incomplete picture because many local agencies still have a spotty record of reporting hate crimes, 26 years after Congress directed the Justice Department to begin collecting the data.
We need to do a better job of tracking and reporting hate crime to fully understand what is happening in our communities and how to stop it, James B. Comey Jr., the F.B.I. director, said Monday.
WASHINGTON On the morning of Jan. 21, 2017, his first full day in office, President Donald J. Trump will take a minute to settle behind the 19th-century Resolute desk, first used in the Oval Office by John F. Kennedy.
Then he will get very busy if he follows through on his campaign promises for what he will do on his first day in office.
On Day 1, Mr. Trump has promised, he will redirect immigration enforcement, alter trade relations with China and other nations, relax restrictions on energy production, impose new rules on lobbyists, halt efforts to combat global warming, lift curbs on guns, push for congressional term limits and demand a new strategy for defeating the Islamic State. He may face some legal and procedural hurdles, but most of his Day 1 pledges involve issuing presidential directives, executive orders or memorandums that do not need legislative approval.
Although Mr. Trump and his top advisers have appeared to moderate some of his broader campaign pledges they have suggested he might keep parts of the Affordable Care Act, delay building a wall along the border with Mexico and not appoint a special prosecutor to investigate Hillary Clintons emails Mr. Trump has said nothing to indicate that he will not make good on his explicit Day 1 promises, many of which he delivered in his Contract With the American Voter during a speech in late October in Gettysburg, Pa.
WASHINGTON As a presidential candidate, Donald J. Trump vowed to refill the cells of the Guantanamo Bay prison and said American terrorism suspects should be sent there for military prosecution. He called for targeting mosques for surveillance, escalating airstrikes aimed at terrorists and taking out their civilian family members, and bringing back waterboarding and a hell of a lot worse not only because torture works, but because even if it doesnt work, they deserve it anyway.
It is hard to know how much of this stark vision for throwing off constraints on the exercise of national security power was merely tough campaign talk. But if the Trump administration follows through on such ideas, it will find some assistance in a surprising source: President Obamas have-it-both-ways approach to curbing what he saw as overreaching in the war on terrorism.
Over and over, Mr. Obama has imposed limits on his use of such powers but has not closed the door on them a flexible approach premised on the idea that he and his successors could be trusted to use them prudently. Mr. Trump can now sweep away those limits and open the throttle on policies that Mr. Obama endorsed as lawful and legitimate for sparing use, like targeted killings in drone strikes and the use of indefinite detention and military tribunals for terrorism suspects.
And even in areas where Mr. Obama tried to terminate policies from the George W. Bush era like torture and the detention of Americans and other people arrested on domestic soil as enemy combatants his administration fought in court to prevent any ruling that the defunct practices had been illegal. The absence of a definitive repudiation could make it easier for Trump administration lawyers to revive the policies by invoking the same sweeping theories of executive power that were the basis for them in the Bush years.
WASHINGTON They have spent almost two years battling the establishment wing of their own party, emerging from the Republican fringes to stymie routine legislation and ignite the spark that immolated their partys most powerful elected leader, Speaker John A. Boehner.
But in a twist that could alter the dynamics of the next Congress, these anti-establishment Republicans, known as the House Freedom Caucus, could find their influence crippled by the ascension of an anti-establishment figure to the White House.
The delirious aftermath of Donald J. Trumps surprise election victory has, at least for now, erased the party divisions that the Freedom Caucus has leveraged within a historically unpopular Congress. After having braced themselves for a Democratic-controlled White House and Senate, Republicans are now rushing to dust off their wish lists.
It has been roses and sunshine. Its unbelievable, said Representative Tom Cole, Republican of Oklahoma. It is just amazing what a difference the Trump victory has made.
In Africa, many countries are looking at solar and wind as a quick way to bolster generation capacity by leapfrogging older and dirtier sources of energy. Renewable energy could also bring diversification to nations dangerously dependent on a single source of electricity, like Malawi and Zambia, which have experienced crippling blackouts because of a severe drought that lowered water levels at hydroelectric dams.
As sub-Saharan Africas most advanced economy, South Africa has about half of the continents power-generating capacity. It has operated a nuclear power station, the only one on the continent, since 1984, though coal-fired power plants generate about 80 percent of its electricity.
Because of poor planning, the blackouts began in 2008. In 2011, desperate for more juice, the country started a program to attract private solar and wind producers that bid against one another on a number of projects.
By this June, the renewable program had attracted 102 projects worth $14.4 billion. Forty-four facilities, built on average in less than two years, are producing 2.2 gigawatts. By contrast, the construction of two huge government coal plants is facing years of delay and severe cost overruns.
The program has been very successful, clear of any corruption and very well run, said Wikus van Niekerk, the director of the Center for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Studies at Stellenbosch University. Its been seen by many people in the rest of the world as one of the most successful procurement programs for renewable energy. Its something that the South African government and public should be proud about.
Abengoa, a Spanish company, was the first to win contracts to build two concentrated solar plants near Upington. Unlike traditional solar plants, a concentrated solar plant harnesses the suns energy to produce steam, which can be stored for a few hours and then used to run turbines after the sun sets.
He spent five hours in line at his bank branch here, only to reach a teller who had run out of the new notes. And on Sunday, when he usually has appointments all afternoon for haircuts and color treatments at Beau Monde salon in the neighborhood of Colaba, only one client showed up, the rest lacking the cash to pay.
His family was surviving on 1,500 rupees in small-denomination notes that he fished out of his daughters piggy bank, he said.
I am willing to handle all of this if this will really reduce corruption, Mr. Sheikh said as he held a blow-dryer to his sole clients hair in the otherwise empty salon.
A Mumbai taxi driver, Girja Prasad Goswami, 48, said his daily earnings had been cut in half, to 300 rupees, since Mr. Modis ban went into effect. He was not sure how he would send money to his wife and three daughters in his home village in Uttar Pradesh if business did not pick up. Yet he said, If its going to help the nation, I am willing to continue.
In banning the two largest currency notes on Tuesday, Mr. Modi aimed to reduce the use of unaccounted-for cash in India, where experts have estimated that one-third of transactions are made this way. With the sudden ban, Mr. Modi rendered vast caches of unaccounted-for cash useless.
Mr. Modi, in his Sunday speech, asked the public for 50 days of forbearance for a transition to new bills of 500 and 2,000 rupees. Complicating that transition is the fact that many of the countrys approximately 200,000 A.T.M.s are not working. Those that are working are quickly running out of 100-rupee notes, and none of the machines are capable of dispensing the new 2,000-rupee notes, which are a different size from the previous notes.
The finance minister, Arun Jaitley, said recalibrating the A.T.M.s to dispense the new notes would take as long as three more weeks. The machines were not recalibrated before last weeks edict; by keeping the move a secret, officials prevented big holders of unaccounted-for money from outwitting the ban.
JERUSALEM An Israeli ministerial committee on Sunday approved a contentious bill that would allow for the retroactive legalization of Jewish settlement outposts built on privately owned Palestinian land in the occupied West Bank. The measure breaks a longstanding taboo, and in the view of many experts, it defies international law.
The bill requires approval by Parliament before becoming law. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposed its advancement now, presumably to avoid international censure. The attorney general has cautioned that he will be hard pressed to defend the legislation in Israels Supreme Court.
Israels pro-settlement camp has promoted the legislation, known as the Regulation Law, with increasing urgency as a Dec. 25 deadline approaches for the court-ordered destruction of Amona, an illegal outpost of 40 families on a West Bank hilltop claimed by dozens of Palestinian landowners and their heirs.
Treading a fine line between world opinion, his conservative Likud Party and his governing coalition, Mr. Netanyahu tried to delay the vote. He said it would harm the chances of a government request pending before the Supreme Court to postpone the demolition of Amona by half a year.
But some of those groups, in a separate offensive aided by Turkey, have pushed the Islamic State back from the Turkish border and appear to be on the verge of retaking the city of Al Bab from the extremist group, which Mr. Trump has vowed to defeat. A Pentagon program supports other rebel groups working with Kurdish militias to fight the Islamic State.
We dont consider his statements to represent the new U.S. administration stance, said Bassam Hajj Moustafa, the political spokesman for the Nour al-Din al-Zenki rebel faction, which lost its American support after being deemed too close to Qaeda-affiliated groups.
Mr. Moustafa called Mr. Trumps statements a show tainted by earlier racist, problematic comments, adding, Were not taking them seriously, and they will be deleted later.
Frederic C. Hof, a former Obama administration official who has been a vociferous advocate for more robust intervention against Mr. Assad, said it was too early to predict Mr. Trumps Syria policy especially since he had more to learn about the conflict.
No doubt Mr. Trump will learn during the course of his intelligence briefings, Mr. Hof wrote in an essay published by the Atlantic Council, a Washington policy institute, that Mr. Assads collective punishment policy and mass homicide of opponents drives recruitment for the Islamic State and Al Qaeda. Ending United States support for rebels would only push them closer to Qaeda-linked groups, Mr. Hof and other analysts say.
Mr. Trumps statements about Syria so far, Mr. Hof noted, came in a domestic political campaign in which he emphasized the threat of the Islamic State and played on fears of Muslims among his base, with no room for the nuances and contradictions of the Middle East. For instance, Mr. Trump has vowed to be tougher on Iran which, along with Russia, provides decisive support to Mr. Assad.
Mr. Trumps victory was closely watched across Syria. Like people the world over, Syrians reacted instantly with a mix of surprise, enthusiasm, despair and confusion.
Many strikes are carried out by pilots trained by the United States, who fly American-made jets that are refueled in the air by American planes. And Yemenis often find the remains of American-made munitions, as they did in the ruins after a strike that killed more than 100 mourners at a funeral last month.
Graffiti on walls across Sana reads: America is killing the Yemeni people.
President-elect Donald J. Trump has not said whether he will continue United States support for the war, but has been very critical of Saudi Arabia, saying it does not survive without us. At a rally in January, he said Iran was going into Yemen and was going to have everything in the region, but he did not clarify how he would respond.
The sweeping destruction of civilian infrastructure has led analysts and aid workers to conclude that hitting Yemens economy is part of the coalitions strategy.
The economic dimension of this war has become a tactic, said Jamie McGoldrick, the United Nations humanitarian coordinator for Yemen. It is all consistent the port, the bridges, the factories. They are getting destroyed, and it is to put pressure on the politics.
In a written response to questions, a coalition spokesman, Maj. Gen. Ahmed Asseri, said the air campaign had halted the rebels advance, destroyed 90 percent of their rockets and aircraft and pressured them to join talks aimed at ending the war. He denied that the coalition sought to inflict suffering on civilians and said only facilities connected to the war effort had been hit.
He blamed the rebel group, the Houthis, for the humanitarian crisis.
This is primarily the responsibility of the rebels, who have displaced Yemens legitimate government and who are impeding the flow of humanitarian supplies, General Asseri said.
Saudi Arabia and other Persian Gulf countries are also among the top donors of aid to Yemen. So even as they undermine its self-sufficiency, they help sustain the population.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
By Maksim Tsurkov Trend:
Burkina Faso is interested in development of mutual relations with Azerbaijan, in particular, in energy sphere, said President of Burkina Fasos parliament Salifou Diallo.
Diallo made the remarks during his meeting with Azerbaijani delegation led by the countrys Energy Minister Natig Aliyev in Burkina Fasos capital, Ouagadougou.
Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR said in a message Nov. 14 that SOCAR Vice-President for Investments and Marketing Elshad Nassirov and management of the Azerkimya production association and SOCAR Trading company also took part in the meeting.
It was noted that the diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and Burkina Faso were established in 2004 and currently, are being conducted within such organizations as the United Nations (UN), the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), as well as the African Union (AU), where Azerbaijan has an observer status, said the message. Currently, there are wide prospects to develop cooperation.
During the meeting, Natig Aliyev spoke about Azerbaijans energy strategy, regional and international projects, which are being implemented at the initiative and with the participation of the country.
Azerbaijan plays an important role on the global energy market as one of the main exporters of oil and gas, said Aliyev.
Salifou Diallo, for his part, noted that Burkina Faso is a major importer of energy and is interested in expanding ties with Azerbaijan, including in the energy sector.
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Follow the author on Twitter: @MaksimTsurkov
The vast majority of funds invested in equities reflect the direct or indirect savings of employees for retirement and the funds of foundations, endowments and families looking for long-term appreciation and future growth in dividends. Institutional investors, asset managers and the companies in which they invest should all recognize a fiduciary duty to manage and invest to achieve sustainable long-term growth in value. There is a raging debate today over the duty of the corporate board of directors. I believe it is to encourage long-term investment for the benefit of the economy, not just the shareholders.
You have prepared a road map for the World Economic Forums International Business Council called The New Paradigm, in which you talk about the pitfalls of short-termism on societal prosperity. Was there a particular legal case or situation that galvanized your involvement?
Short-termism and inadequate public and private investment are major factors in creating the inequality that is plaguing the United States and much of the world today. Knowing of my efforts to fight short-term thinking and strategies and fight attacks by activist hedge funds, the International Business Council invited me to talk about these issues at its August 2015 meeting. Following that, I was asked to help create a paradigm for corporate governance that could be considered at this years meeting. I did, and the road map was approved by the council last August.
What are the key points for boardrooms, chief executives, investors and governments?
A key point is having long-term strategies that are developed by a company with the participation, understanding and approval of the board of directors and are communicated to investors and the public. Other important points are engagement between companies and investors, transparency with respect to companies strategies and financial statements; mutual company and investor support for environmental, social and governance issues; and corporate social responsibility. Also, another key point is commitment to long-term investment by companies and commitment to encouraging and protecting those investments by investors.
The paper points to the importance of long-term sustainability of corporations and suggests that focus has been lost. Why did that happen, and how important is it that it be restored?
It is of the utmost importance. Interest in it waned because of short-term thinking and efforts by activist hedge funds to force short-term actions on companies, both those that are targeted as well as others. Companies began to adopt short-term strategies defensively in an attempt to avoid being targeted by such efforts. That needs to be changed.
At your firm, what are you doing to address the issues of gender equality, pay gaps and minority hiring? Are there lessons you have learned that can be applied more broadly?
My firm has lock-step compensation for all attorneys, male or female, so that all, from the same year of joining the firm, have the exact same compensation. We think that it is a major factor in the success of our firm. So, too, is our liberal bonus program for all employees. In addition, we have very active minority recruitment and hiring efforts. We offer summer internships for minority law school students and some high school students to encourage those who are interested in becoming attorneys.
SUNDERLAND, England Among the consequences Britain unleashed in voting to abandon the European Union was making Tom Hursts job vastly more challenging.
Mr. Hurst is the chief investment officer of Make It Sunderland, a local economic development agency. He lobbies investors on the benefits of setting up factories here in this industrial city in the northeast of England.
Before the referendum, that job largely involved telling the story of Nissan: How, three decades ago, the Japanese automaker established a plant here in a community hard hit by factory closings. Now that plant now employs 7,500 and makes 500,000 vehicles a year. How other companies from around the world flocked here to cash in on supplying Nissan, making things like auto parts, car seats and dashboard instruments.
But since the referendum on June 23, Mr. Hurst increasingly has to explain the implications of Britains looming exit from the European Union, known as Brexit. He must justify how this low-slung city on the North Sea can remain an important locale for global business, even as its links to Europe are suddenly uncertain. He must reassure investors who are inclined to explore other shores.
The presidential campaign that just ended was notable for a lack of debate about housing in particular the uneven state of the United States mortgage market nine years since the start of the financial crisis.
Neither President-elect Donald J. Trump nor Hillary Clinton spent much time discussing housing policy, even though the financial crisis in the United States began with the collapse of home prices nationally. And neither candidate laid out a plan for dealing with the two biggest engines in the mortgage market Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac which remain under a controversial federal government conservatorship.
Laurie Goodman, a longtime housing industry guru on Wall Street and now with a Washington research organization, said she did not think federal legislators would make it a priority to address the fates of Fannie and Freddie two government-sponsored entities that were rescued by the Treasury eight years ago with a $187 billion taxpayer bailout.
I am very pessimistic on G.S.E. reform, said Ms. Goodman, co-director of the Housing Finance Policy Center at the Urban Institute, referring to the government-sponsored enterprises, as Fannie and Freddie are known. I dont see the impetus for change.
The language Mr. Shkreli used in his filing indicates that he may not want to offer a pure advice of counsel defense, especially because Mr. Greebels involvement could put that claim out of reach. Instead, he may try to point to the advice of Katten Muchin lawyers as a basis for a jury to find that he did not intend to violate the law because he acted in good faith.
To prove fraud, the government has to show that a defendant intended to mislead the victim to obtain money or property. Good faith is always a defense to such a charge because the misstatement must be made in order to steal, not just that it was done accidentally or through an honest mistake that resulted in a loss. So if a lawyer tells a client that conduct is proper, then it may show a defendant did not want to violate the law.
Courts are not always willing to allow a defendant to point to the presence of lawyers as a basis to prove the absence of fraudulent intent. In the Securities and Exchange Commissions fraud lawsuit against Fabrice Tourre, a former Goldman Sachs trader who was eventually found liable for fraud related to a toxic mortgage-backed securities deal he helped put together right before the financial crisis, the court would not let him introduce evidence of the participation of lawyers in the process because he did not claim to have relied on their advice. A lay jury could easily believe that the fact that a lawyer is present at a meeting means that he or she must have implicitly or explicitly blessed the legality of all aspects of a transaction, the judge wrote.
But in a recent civil securities fraud case in the Federal District Court in Chicago against the former chief executive of biopharmaceutical company Immunosyn who was accused of not disclosing information about a clinical hold on one of its drugs, the judge was willing to allow the defendant to offer evidence about what corporate lawyers told him to show he acted in good faith. The court rejected the S.E.C.s argument that allowing the evidence was a back door means to offer a watered-down version of the advice of counsel defense. Instead, it could be used because honest white heart/empty head good faith is inconsistent with a subjectively reckless state of mind, the court wrote.
The challenge for courts is to determine how far to let defendants go in trying to prove that the requisite state of mind did not exist. Judges do not want to encourage the view that having lawyers in the room acts as a shield to allow executives to do anything they want just by offering the claim that my lawyer said it was O.K. even if that was not exactly what the legal advice was.
Pointing to the lawyer can also raise a host of complications, such as whether the attorney-client privilege prevents disclosure of the legal advice. In Mr. Shkrelis case, Katten Muchin represented the company but not him personally, so some materials may be off limits, absent a waiver of the privilege by Retrophin, which is one of the victims of the fraud and may not want to see him avoid a conviction. The trial judge will have to sort this all out to determine what should be made available before deciding whether Mr. Shkreli can mount a good faith defense based on the legal advice.
Lawyers are retained by companies to ensure compliance with the law, not as a means to take greater risks in the hope that the government cannot prove an intentional violation. That approach would turn good faith based on the advice of counsel into a free pass from fraud.
The boutique investment bank Perella Weinberg Partners is taking an ambitious step for growth by buying a fellow bank known for its expertise in the oil patch.
The firm said on Monday that it was acquiring Tudor Pickering Holt & Company to greatly expand its expertise in energy transactions, at a time when independent advisory firms are battling to differentiate themselves.
The importance of the energy sector is just huge, said Peter A. Weinberg, a co-founder of Perella Weinberg and the head of its advisory business. Its a significant part of the M.&A. market, and its an important asset in the asset management business.
The acquisition of Tudor Pickering Holt, word of which emerged earlier this year, comes as Perella Weinberg is seeking to build momentum. The firm was one of the principal architects of AT&Ts proposed $85.4 billion takeover of Time Warner.
More broadly, money flowing out of the hedge fund industry as a whole comes at a time when performance has been disappointing. The Hedge Fund Research Composite Index, the broadest gauge of hedge fund performance, has lagged the Standard & Poors 500-stock index this year, gaining 3.56 percent through the end of October compared with the indexs 4 percent gain over the same period, accounting for reinvested dividends.
Frankly, we expect to see assets move from human managers to machine managers, Tony James, chief operating officer of Blackstone, told investors earlier this year. The Blackstone Alternative Asset Management arm, which manages $70 billion in hedge fund investments, is a big investor in quant-related hedge fund firms and has put billions of dollars toward these firms in recent years. The division now has $10 billion invested in quant-dedicated hedge fund firms, according to one person with direct knowledge of the firm; it has not publicly released the number.
Some industry observers warn that hedge funds building out new quant arms may simply be trying to capture investor money that is flowing into the strategy. But veterans in the quant world see the trend as an indication that the industry is finally catching up to other industries in which technology has disrupted businesses.
The portfolio investment industry has been relatively late to adopting technology, said Philippe Jordan, the president of Capital Fund Management, a 25-year-old quant hedge fund firm that manages $6.9 billion. Finance is deeply conservative in nature, he added.
Capital Fund Management has 160 employees, including 40 scientists, most of whom hold Ph.D.s in physics; 75 employees are focused on information technology, 20 of which are in data management. Like other types of hedge funds, the firm has a research department. The only difference is that at Capital Fund Management, the analysts who conduct research approach the work more like academics, and ideas are peer-reviewed.
With more investor money going toward firms that build models to trade on, there is some concern that these models will begin to look similar, potentially resulting in overcrowding. That could be a problem if there is a sudden event that drives everyone to start selling at the same time, something that happened during the quant crunch in the summer of 2007. Over one week in August, AQR Capital Management, D. E. Shaw and Renaissance Technologies were all hit with huge losses as the housing market began to show signs of collapse. With similar models and huge positions, the losses each firm suffered were amplified.
Mr. Shen at BlackRock thinks there are fewer risks this time around. The diversity of data allows people to do a lot of different things, he said.
Hong Kong has the benefit of being connected to China, which has, mostly in isolation, been home to some of the most notable developments in the fintech world. Chinese fintech companies like Alipay and Tencent have been processing more financial transactions than the largest Chinese banks. The four most highly valued fintech unicorns (companies valued at $1 billion or more) are based in mainland China, according to most recent surveys.
Early this year the chief executive of Hong Kongs central bank, Norman Chan, announced a multipronged effort to become a Fintech Innovation Hub.
The city-states government is offering to put money into companies that locate in Hong Kong, and its regulators have a new supervisory sandbox where new companies can try their products without needing to fulfill all the normal regulatory requirements. Hong Kong brought in several foreign companies this month to attend its first government-sponsored conference.
Hong Kong has lots of competition from Singapore, which recently started its own aggressive effort to become a capital of fintech. Singapore has begun offering some of the same inducements as Hong Kong, including its first fintech week.
Last year, more fintech companies in Singapore raised money from venture capitalists than did in Hong Kong, but the Singapore companies raised less money in sum than those in Hong Kong, according to data from Accenture.
Nowhere, though, has the competition been fiercer than in Europe, because of the British vote to leave the European Union.
Before the so-called Brexit vote, London had clearly established itself as the hub of fintech activity for the Continent. But if Brexit comes to pass, financial institutions in London are likely to find it harder to do business freely with European companies and financial institutions. Equally important for start-ups, young developers from outside Britain may not be able to remain in London.
TOKYO Japanese economic growth accelerated strongly in the third quarter. Japan has the worlds third-largest economy, but it has been struggling to lift a lackluster growth rate and escape the trap of deflation sagging consumer prices associated with weak output and declining living standards. So what went right last quarter? And will it last?
What Happened?
Japanese gross domestic product increased by 2.2 percent in annualized terms in the three months through September, the Cabinet Office said in a preliminary estimate. That counts as rip-roaring growth in normally sluggish Japan. The country has averaged less than 1 percent over the last two decades. The growth rate more than doubled compared with the second quarter and was more than twice as high as the average forecast by economists.
Where Did the Growth Come From?
Foreigners. Exports accounted for by far the largest share of the increased output, according to the Cabinet Office data. They surged 8.1 percent in annualized terms, while other important parts of the economy barely budged. Domestic consumer spending, the biggest component of G.D.P., rose just 0.2 percent. Business investment ticked up by a meager 0.1 percent. By contrast, a rosier economic picture overseas helped exporters: The American economy grew robustly in the quarter, while a slowdown in China appears to have eased. A weaker yen probably helped, too. The Japanese currency had been gaining strength this year bad news for companies selling in dollars or euros but it has eased off again since August.
Is the Government Growth Push Working?
Government spending took a back seat last quarter. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has introduced a number of stimulus programs during his nearly four years in office, but the latest one announced in September and worth 28 trillion yen, or about $260 billion, over several years, according to government calculations will not kick in until next year, and public investment actually declined last quarter. More broadly, Japanese officials have started to re-examine a stimulus strategy that has relied heavily on the central bank. The banks ultraloose monetary policy has kept borrowing costs down, but so far that has not translated into much new spending by consumers or businesses.
The presidential race was not far from the minds of executives from Americas biggest brands and advertising agencies last month in Orlando, Fla., at the annual conference held by the Association of National Advertisers. The industry leaders had traveled from cities like New York, Chicago and San Francisco, and any political conversation seemed to be premised on the assumption that Hillary Clinton would win.
There was some talk about how to best market to Donald J. Trumps supporters after Nov. 8 and debate about what a potential Trump media organization might look like. Many were aghast that the race was close at all, criticizing aspects of Mrs. Clintons branding and messaging for holding her back in what they thought should have a no-brainer for voters.
So when Mr. Trump won the election last week, an industry that prides itself on always knowing what motivates and excites the American public was in a state of shock. Marketers now find themselves asking serious questions about how they study consumers, use data and quantify the value of facts questions about the fundamental nature of their business.
Advertisers, like many others, may have found ourselves in bubbles of our own making, said Rishad Tobaccowala, chief strategist for the Publicis Groupe.
HONG KONG Samsung Electronics is spending $8 billion to get inside your car.
Samsung, the South Korean electronics giant which already makes popular but recently problem-plagued smartphones said on Monday that it had agreed to buy Harman International Industries, an American automotive technology company, in an ambitious push into a whole different kind of mobile.
Harman is best known for making car audio systems under brand names popular with audiophiles such as Harman/Kardon and JBL. But Harmans appeal to Samsung comes from what it calls its connected car business an operation that supplies a cars navigation services, its onboard entertainment systems and its connectivity to the rest of the world.
The vehicle of tomorrow will be transformed by smart technology and connectivity in the same way that simple feature phones have become sophisticated smart devices over the past decade, Young Sohn, the president and chief strategy officer of Samsung Electronics, said in a news release.
The deal marks the latest ambitious foray by an established name in the technology world into a new generation of smart objects sometimes collectively called the internet of things. Under this vision, everything from home security systems to refrigerators will be connected to the internet, gathering data and controllable at the touch of a smartphone icon.
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Nov. 14
By Huseyn Hasanov Trend:
A ceremony of signing bilateral documents was held in Ashgabat following the high-level Turkmen-Palestinian negotiations, the Turkmen Dovlet Habarlary state news service reported Nov. 14.
Turkmenistans President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and his Palestinian counterpart Mahmoud Abbas signed a joint declaration.
Meanwhile, an agreement on economic cooperation and memorandums of understanding on cooperation in higher education and tourism were also signed between the two countries governments.
Moreover, memorandums of understanding were signed between Turkmenistans Ministry of Economy and Development and Palestinian Investment Promotion Agency and between the two countries chambers of commerce and industry.
Mr. Papi said, Technically speaking, Dominique is a seasoned troubleshooter, and while he is developing a mechanism he is thinking about a new one still better. Dominique knows how to use his hands, and he makes things with a high level of quality.
Renaud et Papis first big invention, for I.W.C., was the Grand Complication modular minute repeater modular because it could be added to existing watches. Business started rolling in. For Jaeger LeCoultre, they developed the Reversos micro-repetition minute; for A. Lange & Sohne, the Fusee Tourbillon. Soon they were making complications for Franck Muller, Harry Winston, Parmigiani Fleurier, Richard Mille, Chanel, Hublot, Girard-Perregaux and Ulysses Nardin, as well as creating for their former employer, Audemars Piguet, the smallest minute repeater caliber and the first Grande Sonnerie Carillon.
In 1992, the men sold half of the business to Audemars Piguet but continued to run it. But after a few years, Mr. Renaud decided that he had had enough. I needed to take a break, he said. I wanted to see my two daughters grow up. So in 2000, he sold the rest of his interest in the business, now known as APRP, and moved to the south of France, outside Montpellier. He built a house, sold it and built another but, he said, I was always thinking of watches.
After 13 years away from watchmaking, Mr. Renaud was ready to return. Dominique Renaud SA is based in Renens, employs four workers and was established as a lab for new ideas, Mr. Torrigiani said. Every second day, Dominque comes in with a new idea.
Image The watchmakers rendering of the new DR01 Twelve First.
It is in my blood, Mr. Renaud noted. I come from a long family of watchmakers in the Vallee de Joux. His grandfather was a watchmaker, and I am a child of Vacheron Constantin, he said. My parents met there. On a shelf in his office is a movement that his mother, born a LeCoultre, worked on in 1959.
The official collaborations between brands and unconventional artists arent the only kind of experimentation going on. Unauthorized, street-smart tweaks of luxury timepieces also are popping up.
Bamford Watch Department, a customizing company based in London whose work is sold at tastemaker stores like Dover Street Market and Colette, has been adding new faces and matte-black bands to new Rolex watches; it also has collaborated with street-savvy artists like Jose Parla of Brooklyn and Wes Lang, the Los Angeles artist whose Deepsea Rolex with an image of the grim reaper retails for 19,000. And late last year, a stainless-steel Rolex Submariner with the logo of the skateboard and clothing company Supreme sold for $50,000 at Stadium Goods, a consignment store in Manhattan that specializes in collectible sneakers, according to John McPheters, the stores co-founder.
For watch collectors, the long-term investment value of such timepieces isnt as reliable as that of a more traditional design. The question is how impactful is tattoo and graffiti culture going to be several generations from now, said Ariel Adams, founder of the watch website aBlogtoWatch. All these artists, they may have some popularity within niche groups, but in the future theyll only have popularity within niche groups, and thats going to prevent the watches from being truly collectible.
Ruediger Albers, president of the American Wempe Corporation, a luxury watch retailer, had a similar observation. It gets a lot of attention that doesnt mean that it translates into a whole lot of sales, but there is a market out there, he said. I cant say that we have customers coming in saying, I have seen this artist and therefore Im interested in the brand. It hasnt translated to that, but at the same time, it opens up the brand.
Most of the watch houses say that in the end, sales volume isnt the main priority. I want the young generation to dream about my brand, Mr. Biver of LVMH said.
If they can buy it or not is not my concern now. Its my concern later: later they will do their own buying with their own money. They will remember their dream and later they will say, I have dreamt so much about this watch, now I want to buy one. Thats my strategy.
Zuby Malik is an unlikely candidate to violate international law. A 78-year-old mother of four with a crown of silver hair, she is a retired obstetrician-gynecologist with a penchant for order.
But Ms. Malik is fighting for her life. After receiving a Stage 4 non-small-cell lung cancer diagnosis a year ago, she exhausted many of the treatments available to her and grappled with torturous side effects that left her itching and gasping for breath. During the summer, she decided to go to Cuba and bring back a cancer vaccine that is not approved in the United States. That she comes from a family steeped in medical training made the decision all the more difficult.
At first, I was a little nervous, said Ms. Malik, sitting in her Northern California living room flanked by an oxygen tank and a table of medicines. But American treatments were not helping me, and I decided I should go to Cuba. What other choice did I have?
Soon after she began the medication, she said, her breathing became easier and her energy returned. In her refrigerator was a box of blue- and orange-capped vials of the vaccine.
By the end of this week, all blood banks in the continental United States must begin testing donated blood for contamination with the Zika virus. Many banks are doing so already, and the early results indicate that the country has dodged a bullet for now.
Screenings in a dozen states suggest that Zika infection remains exceedingly rare. Among the approximately 800,000 blood donations tested in the past six months or so, about 40 were initially positive for the virus.
It is good news that we are avoiding the transmission of Zika, said Dr. Susan Rossmann, the chief medical officer at Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center in Houston.
Still, she noted, it may not be surprising there are so few possibly positive cases, because blood banks have been dissuading people from donating if they recently traveled to an area in which the virus is circulating.
Jackie Chan was among four Hollywood players to receive honorary Oscars at the Governors Awards during a ceremony in Los Angeles this weekend.
The annual awards, which were announced in September, honor industry figures for lifetime achievement in movies.
I still cant believe Im standing here; its a dream, Mr. Chan, 62, said when he accepted the award on Saturday. Finally, this is mine, he added, shaking the statuette.
The winners of the Governors Awards, which were founded in 2009, are chosen by a vote by the Board of Governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. In some years, they also honor people for their humanitarian works in addition to their work in movies. In recent years, board members have started to lobby aggressively for certain candidates to be recognized, and the awards visibility has grown.
Were still where we were a year and a half ago, said Mr. Heim, who founded the Connecticut Coalition Against Crumbling Basements. The only thing thats changed is the problem is getting worse.
To date, nearly 400 property owners across nearly two dozen towns have submitted complaints to the consumer protection agency, asserting that their foundations are deteriorating.
James Mahoney and his wife, who live in Ellington, noticed the telltale cracking in their foundation in March. Further testing confirmed that their concrete was failing. The cost to fix their home: $230,000.
I went through all the phases of feeling glum, and decided to get angry and put my expertise to use, Mr. Mahoney said.
Mr. Mahoney, a director at an engineering research center, has an expertise in transportation construction materials, including concrete. During his free time, Mr. Mahoney gathered data from building permits and census information to estimate the number of houses potentially affected by the bad concrete, and the economic impact to Connecticut. Mr. Mahoneys analysis led him to believe that as many as 10,000 homes may be involved at a cost of $1 billion.
Over the past 30 years, the Becker quarry, in Willington, has provided concrete for thousands of houses. The stone aggregate used in the concrete mixture has higher levels of pyrrhotite, an iron sulfide mineral that can react with oxygen and water to cause swelling and cracking.
The recent report gave a highly technical analysis, conducted by scientists at the University of Connecticut, of that chemical reaction. It described the resulting formation of secondary minerals that might ultimately lead to the premature deterioration of the concrete foundation.
SHANGHAI Perhaps no country has taken more hits from Donald J. Trump than China. During the presidential campaign, Mr. Trump made it sound as if making America great again meant defeating China.
But much of the Chinese public supported him. And President Xi Jinping was among the first world leaders to congratulate him. Mr. Xi, in his message to the president-elect, expressed hopes of building on the common interests between the worlds two largest economies.
Beijing is looking forward to change in Washington. For the Chinese, the Obama era has been the most difficult period in United States-China relations since President Richard M. Nixon renewed ties in 1971. The Obama administration, with Hillary Clinton as secretary of state, made its pivot to Asia about containing Beijing, aiming to strengthen and enlarge the American alliance system in the Asia-Pacific region while increasing Americas military footprint there. The pivot was backed by an economic plan, the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a now-moribund trade pact created in part to isolate Beijing.
Since the end of the Cold War, from President Bill Clinton to President Obama, the United States has been trying to remake the world in its own image building an American empire in the name of globalization. Through ever larger and more complex alliances and global institutions that the United States designed, Washington has sought the global standardization of rules in trade, finance and international relations. It has used political, economic and military might to push other countries to adopt electoral democracy and market capitalism.
Mexico City To get about on a bicycle in Mexico City is an experience ranging from complicated to downright scary. The cracked and broken paving makes it torture to ride anywhere, specially if youre constantly dodging hostile cars and trucks. Its frequently said that Mexico City is not Amsterdam. Drivers in Amsterdam share the streets with bicycles and pedestrians as a matter of course; here, it seems we do so because were forced to. Nevertheless, we inhabitants of Mexico City have the same right as any Dutch citizen to enjoy a complete network of bike lanes to get around the city.
The deficient infrastructure for nonmotor traffic is becoming dangerous for cyclists. In July, we saw via social media a confrontation between a man driving an Audi in a bike lane, Rafael Marquez Gasperin, and a cyclist named Ari Santillan. After running into the cyclist, Mr. Gasperin, now known as Lord Audi, insulted Mr. Santillan, and proceeded to attack a bank security guard who tried to intervene to enforce traffic regulations. (In theory, a recent reform of these rules has put automobile drivers on the lowest level of the street-user totem pole, giving priority instead to pedestrians, bicycle riders and public transportation.)
The attacker made fun of the guard: This is Mexico. Get it, guey? (using a slang word that can be translated as man, or dude). The phrase sums up how the citys residents regard public services. For some, everything public is really private and can be used as they please; for others, it is community property to be enjoyed collectively. These opposing views are part of a wider cultural battle over public space.
Whom does the street belong to? In urban settings, streets and sidewalks along with parks and plazas make up the public environment. Public property is the sum of all the assets that belong to everyone in society. The government must guarantee equal access to whatever is public; no one should be excluded. Even though traffic regulations now give preferential treatment to pedestrians and cyclists, there is a disturbing paradox: Despite being the lowest in the official hierarchy of street users, the drivers of motor vehicles are the No. 1 beneficiaries of government spending.
This year will be very likely the hottest on record, with global temperatures breaking the previous record, set in 2015, scientists with the World Meteorological Organization announced on Monday.
The announcement is no surprise to climate scientists experts at NASA had already projected that 2016 would be a third year of record heat and the record will not be definitive until early next year.
Imagine if scientists discovered that an asteroid was hurtling toward Los Angeles.
The possibility has existed on the pages of Hollywood scripts. But in what may be a case of life imitating art, NASA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and other government agencies engaged last month in a planetary protection exercise to consider the potentially devastating consequences of a 330-foot asteroid hitting the Earth.
The simulation projected a worst-case blast wave by an asteroid strike in 2020 that could level structures across 30 miles, require a mass evacuation of the Los Angeles area and cause tens of thousands of casualties.
In 1998, the movie Armageddon dramatized an even greater fictional threat. In that blockbuster, a ragtag crew was sent on a mission to drill into an asteroid and set off a nuclear bomb to avert a global catastrophe. As the character Harry Stamper, portrayed by Bruce Willis, summed up to his crewmates: The United States government just asked us to save the world.
Dont expect the need for such Hollywood heroics in real life, however. An asteroid that could cause such damage has no significant chance of striking Earth within the next century, Paul Chodas, manager of NASAs Center for Near-Earth Object Studies at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif., said in an email.
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Nov. 14
By Huseyn Hasanov Trend:
Palestines embassy will be opened in Ashgabat during the visit of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to Turkmenistan on Nov. 13-15, the Turkmen government said in a message Nov. 14.
Turkmenistans President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, during his meeting with Mahmoud Abbas, said that the Turkmen side will create all necessary conditions for the proper functioning of the diplomatic mission of the brotherly country, according to the message.
The two countries will celebrate the 25th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations in April 2017. The Turkmen president proposed to hold the Turkmen-Palestinian business forum in 2017, according to the message.
Plenty of shows go badly on Broadway. But rarely does one do so intentionally.
Now comes The Play That Goes Wrong, a British farce born in a pub, that has been running in the West End of London since 2014.
The slapstick comedy, in which a company of hapless actors makes a disastrous attempt to stage a 1920s murder mystery, is coming to Broadway next year, beginning previews March 9 and opening on April 2 at the Lyceum Theater, the producers said Monday.
The producing team includes J.J. Abrams, the Hollywood director and writer (Star Wars: The Force Awakens), making his first foray into theater production.
Ben Brantley, the chief theater critic of The New York Times, saw the play in London last year and called it an unexpected, gut-busting hit and one of those breakneck exercises in idiocy that make you laugh till you cry, despite yourself.
Nate Yeah, not on its own. Steins support did cover the Trump-Clinton margin in Michigan and Wisconsin, but I dont think its reasonable to say Clinton would have gotten 100 percent of that vote. It wouldnt have been enough anyway: Clinton still would have lost Pennsylvania.
Theres a chance that Gary Johnson/Stein combined could have done it, but I dont know about that. I think the Johnson vote could easily be more of a Trump vote.
Toni Youve tried to warn about the reliability of exit polls. But of course, readers and journalists are devouring the information and drawing conclusions, which is understandable. But explain why its important to hold off for a while on some verdicts.
Nate Well, the exit polls simply arent designed to measure the composition of the electorate and the attitudes of specific subgroups. There are a lot of reasons for that, which you can read more about in this piece. But in general, the exit polls portray the electorate as too young, too educated and too diverse. And that means that all of the estimates for each subgroup are distorted as well, since the exit polls have to add up to the right result. In other words, the exit polls usually have a two wrongs make a right approach to measuring the electorate, and that just doesnt work for the sort of demographic and turnout analysis that people want to use them for. That requires a precision that they just cant provide.
Toni Whats a specific instance in which you think the exit polls are sending the public and journalists in the wrong direction? What about the Hispanic vote, for example?
Nate I think the exit polls are probably off on education, age and the white vote. The exits say that the electorate was half college-educated (too high) and just 15 percent over age 65, and you just cant reconcile those numbers with what we know about the country.
The exit polls are probably on to something about the Hispanic vote. I think its hard to defend that Clinton did as well among Hispanic voters as President Obama, when you look at the results in heavily Hispanic areas. She ran only somewhat ahead of Obama in Miami and Orlando-Kissimmee, despite a big surge in Hispanic turnout. She ran behind Obama in a lot of heavily Hispanic South Texas, New Mexico, Southern Colorado, and the most Hispanic suburban county around Denver.
A study done in part by Leemore Dafny, a health economist now with the Harvard Business School, also illuminates the competition-premium connection. She and co-authors found that premiums in the first year of the marketplaces were 5.4 percent higher just because one national insurer opted out. Another study, published in Health Affairs, found that premiums fall by 3.5 percent with the addition of another insurer.
Marketplaces will only succeed if enough insurers participate, and many are running away from what they perceive as a high-risk, low-reward market opportunity, she said.
All of this insurer withdrawals and sharply escalating premiums was avoidable and is fixable. We know how to draw insurers into markets, keep them there, and limit premium growth. We can do so by subsidizing plans more and by limiting their risk of loss. Weve done both before.
In the early 2000s, Medicare+Choice then the name of what is now the Medicare Advantage program, which offers private plan alternatives to traditional Medicare was struggling. The proportion of Medicare beneficiaries with access to a Medicare+Choice plan declined from 72 percent in 1999 to 61 percent in 2002. The number of plans offered dropped 50 percent, and enrollment dropped 21 percent. Insurance industry representatives said that the problem was that government subsidy payments to plans were not keeping up with costs.
After payments to plans drastically increased as part of the 2003 Medicare Modernization Act passed by a Republican Congress and signed by President George W. Bush insurers flooded the market. This was controversial. Members of Congress from both parties expressed concern that plans were overpaid, wasting taxpayer resources.
By 2007, every Medicare beneficiary had access to at least one plan. The market stabilized, so much so that even as payments to plans were cut by the Affordable Care Act, plan enrollment continued to grow. Today, about one in three Medicare beneficiaries is enrolled in a private plan a record high. Increasing the subsidization of Obamacare plans might have the same effect reducing costs to consumers and drawing more of them, and insurers, into the market.
The Medicare Modernization Act also established Medicares prescription drug program, Part D, which offers another lesson. Its also run entirely through private plans. Theyre cushioned against large losses by a risk corridor program. This helps plans stay in the market if they miscalculated the mix of patients theyd attract, and it allows them to keep premiums lower than they might need to if they had to hedge against the full brunt of potential losses.
The business of political consulting was born, many say, in 1933 when the newspaper writers Clem Whitaker and Leone Baxter were hired to defeat Upton Sinclair in his antipoverty bid for governor of California. (When Sinclair lost, he blamed the defeat on a staff of political chemists.)
The industry has since evolved into a sophisticated army of data analysts, message crafters and others whose firms turn billions of dollars given to candidates and their surrogates into services. Television advertisements. Email lists. Get-out-the-vote strategies.
But everything about this election seemed to throw into question the value of those tactics and even of the consultants themselves. In the end, Mrs. Clintons battalion of advisers was defeated by a wild, seemingly unchoreographed candidate who, according to the most recent data, spent more money on shirts, hats, signs and similar items than on field consulting, voter lists and data.
Over the weekend, 150 or so participants moved between a high-ceilinged conference room at the Westin hotel and other activities, including the reception at the governors mansion and a dinner at an adobe fort in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. (Organizers nixed a tour of a marijuana grow house after too many people expressed interest.)
Brendan Dassey, one of two Wisconsin men who were found guilty in 2007 in the sexual assault and killing of a photographer and who were featured in the Netflix documentary Making a Murderer, should be freed from prison while the state appeals a ruling overturning his conviction, a federal judge ruled on Monday.
The order to free Mr. Dassey, 27, came less than a year after the popular 10-part series by Laura Ricciardi and Moira Demos suggested that the police had unfairly questioned Mr. Dassey, then 16, without a lawyer or parent present.
It suggested that he was mentally unfit, that he had been coerced into a confession he later recanted and that his court-appointed lawyer had been content to cut a deal.
Prosecutors said, however, that Mr. Dassey had participated with his uncle Steven Avery in the murder of the photographer, Teresa Halbach, 25. Mr. Dassey, who was charged with first-degree intentional homicide, mutilating a corpse and first-degree sexual assault, was convicted and sentenced to life in prison.
ATLANTA With local television programming interrupted and a camera trained on the defendants emotionless face, an Atlanta-area father was convicted of murder on Monday for causing the death of his young son by deliberately leaving him in a hot car more than two years ago.
A jury in southeast Georgia, where the case was tried because of intense pretrial publicity here, returned guilty verdicts against the man, Justin Ross Harris, 35, on eight counts, including malice murder and cruelty to children. Mr. Harris, who sometimes glanced downward as the verdict was read in Brunswick, could be sentenced to life in prison for the death of his 22-month-old son, Cooper.
The verdict, announced on the jurys fourth day of deliberations, ended the suspense of a trial that began on Oct. 3, and it capped nearly 29 months of sordid allegations and scrambled loyalties. The cause of Coopers death was undisputed Mr. Harris left him in a Hyundai Tucson while he worked as a software engineer at Home Depot on June 18, 2014 but it fell to jurors to decide whether he had been malicious or merely absent-minded.
The manner of Coopers death is a heartbreakingly familiar one: At least 39 children in the United States have died of vehicular heatstroke this year, according to statistics compiled by a San Jose State University researcher. But the case against Mr. Harris was striking because of the severity of the charges and the states argument that he was eager to end his responsibilities to his family.
WASHINGTON Congress returns this week to finish the last of its business before a new year and era begin in Washington. Ebullient Republicans are eager to put some remaining legislation behind them and to try to fund the government through the rest of the year. Here are some areas to watch.
21st-Century Cures
This legislation, which would finance increases in medical research and changes in regulations, is a priority for both the White House and Senator Mitch McConnell, Republican of Kentucky and the majority leader. President Obama would like a bipartisan postelection accomplishment, and many in his party would like to give it to him, especially since the bill addresses the cancer moonshot associated with Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr., whose son died of a brain tumor.
The presidents interested in the precision medicine part of that, the vice president is interested in the cancer moonshot part of it, Im interested in the regenerative medicine part of it, Mr. McConnell said last week. Id like to see us finish that important new measure this year.
The Military
Congress could pass a final version of the annual National Defense Authorization Act, an expansive military policy bill. There are a few contentious issues at play. The House version of the bill has a religious exemption provision for people seeking federal contracts that many Senate Democrats viewed as government-sponsored discrimination. The bill contains a provision that would permit religiously affiliated federal contractors to refuse to interview a job candidate whose faith differs from theirs. The Senate version had a provision that would for the first time require young women to register for the draft, something the House rejected. These differences must be reconciled.
So what is Mr. Trump talking about when he talks about globalism? His spokeswoman, Hope Hicks, provided a definition in an email before the election last week:
An economic and political ideology which puts allegiance to international institutions ahead of the nation-state; seeks the unrestricted movement of goods, labor and people across borders; and rejects the principle that the citizens of a country are entitled to preference for jobs and other economic considerations as a virtue of their citizenship.
Where Did This Idea Come From?
Far-right groups in the United States began to refer to globalism at the end of the Cold War, when it replaced communism as an idea that was an ever-present danger to the nation, Mr. Pitcavage said. They have also referred to it as the New World Order, and soon they saw its tentacles everywhere.
The shape of that conspiracy had distinctly anti-Semitic overtones, in part because many of communisms foes had historically seen communism as inextricably linked to Judaism, Mr. Pitcavage said. Members of the far right became fixated on prominent Jews like the businessman and philanthropist George Soros.
Those conspiratorial beliefs were bolstered when former President George Bush celebrated the end of the Cold War in a 1991 speech by saying it was the dawn of a new world order. His use of the phrase was taken as proof by many that a globalist conspiracy really was afoot.
It was very easy for them, especially because he was the one who said it, to take that ball and run with it, Mr. Pitcavage said. From that point on, the phrase became the short hand for that kind of globalism conspiracy theory.
How Does It Fit Into American Politics?
The terms multiple meanings have made it a powerful political tool, and Mr. Trumps and his allies frequent references to globalism have drawn in a wide and varied audience.
Anti-globalism is a very efficient net to unite disparate parts of the right from the mainstream to the extreme, said Brian Levin, the director of the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University, San Bernardino.
The appointment of Stephen K. Bannon as chief White House strategist for President-elect Donald J. Trump has been condemned by civil rights groups, Democrats and some Republicans, because of Mr. Bannons record as chairman of Breitbart News, the hard-right news and opinion site.
Here, in his own words, are a selection of Mr. Bannons public statements about the country, the Republican Party and his own political philosophy.
Anger Is a Good Thing
Fear is a good thing. Fear is going to lead you to take action, he said in a 2010 interview.
Referring to Ann Coulter, Michele Bachmann and Sarah Palin in a 2011 radio interview on Political Vindication Radio, he said: These women cut to the heart of the progressive narrative. Thats why there are some unintended consequences of the womens liberation movement. That, in fact, the women that would lead this country would be pro-family, they would have husbands, they would love their children. They wouldnt be a bunch of dykes that came from the Seven Sisters schools up in New England. That drives the left insane, and thats why they hate these women.
Mr. Bannon made a movie in 2012 about the Occupy Wall Street protests. He told an interviewer: After making the Occupy movie, when you finish watching the film, you want to take a hot shower. You want to go home and shower because youve just spent an hour and 15 minutes with the greasiest, dirtiest people you will ever see.
The place that Mr. Bannon will occupy in the new administration, as senior counselor and chief strategist, also elevates to one of the most powerful roles in government someone whose mission in politics has been to tear down institutions, not run them.
His appointment was intended to be a reassuring signal to the vocal and restive members of Mr. Trumps populist, anti-Washington base who are suspicious of power and anyone who holds it. Mr. Trump is their champion, but Mr. Bannon is their check against the Washington establishment and any efforts it makes to soften the new presidents resolve.
Mr. Bannon does not come out of the usual political or ideological backgrounds that have shaped the Republican Party in recent decades. He is not a religious conservative who is focused on social issues. He is not a traditional economic conservative. What especially motivates Mr. Bannon, his friends and colleagues say, is a sense that the countrys cultural and political elite are contemptuous of ordinary Americans. That endeared him to Mr. Trump, who never felt he received the respect he deserved for building such a large political movement.
That arrogance of the elites, as Mr. Bannon has said, explains why most of the media and political class missed the rise of Mr. Trump.
Mr. Bannons disgust with the politics of the mainstream Republican Party burns just as hot as, if not hotter than, his animus toward liberals. He sees Republicans as the party of Davos donors and has scorned them for denigrating Trump supporters as the vulgarians, the hobbits and the peasants with the pitchforks.
He is close to Sarah Palin, and at one point he urged her to take up the kind of Republican versus Republican battle he relishes: a primary campaign against Senator John McCain, her 2008 running mate. (She declined.) He was behind some of the Trump campaigns most inflammatory moves, like inviting several women who had accused Bill Clinton of sexual advances to sit in Mr. Trumps family box during a debate.
He had never worked on a national campaign until signing on with Mr. Trump, and has had eclectic taste in careers. He served as a Navy officer and went into banking for Goldman Sachs. He also helped run Biosphere 2, the domed ecosystem in Arizona where people lived without contact with the outside world. Like many leaders of the emerging hard-right movement, he became engaged in politics with the rise of the Tea Party early in President Obamas first term.
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Nov. 14
By Huseyn Hasanov Trend:
The 16th meeting of the Turkmenistan-EU committee was held in Brussels, Belgium, within the agreement on cooperation and trade, the Turkmen Foreign Ministry said in a message Nov. 14.
The sides discussed a wide range of issues. In particular, such aspects as macroeconomic situation in Turkmenistan, constitutional and social reforms in Turkmenistan, implementation of technical projects and programs of the EU in Turkmenistan, energy projects and opportunities to diversify gas supplies from Turkmenistan to Europe were considered during the meeting.
The European External Action Service, office of the special representative for Central Asia and others were also presented.
The sides agreed to hold the 17th meeting of the joint Turkmenistan-EU committee in 2017 in Ashgabat, according to the message.
The list is a good reflection of Mr. Trumps dual priorities, said William M. Jay, a lawyer with the firm of Goodwin Procter and a former law clerk to Justice Scalia. It was consistent with the message he was trying to send: that he was not going to be naming establishment choices but that the establishment might well be happy with the people he chose from Alabama and Iowa and places like that, he said.
The top priority for conservatives, Mr. Malcolm said, is to avoid another disappointment like Justice David H. Souter, who was appointed by President George Bush in 1990 but whose voting record turned out to be decidedly liberal.
Mr. Malcolm said his own first choice for the current vacancy was Judge William H. Pryor Jr. of the United States Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit, in Atlanta. If you are concerned about not wanting another David Souter, Mr. Malcolm said, he has a real titanium spine in terms of doing the right thing.
Judge Pryor has called Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision establishing a right to abortion, the worst abomination of constitutional law in our history, a comment he stood by at his confirmation hearing. He once ended a speech with a prayer: Please, God, no more Souters.
Mr. Jay also singled out Judge Pryor, who went to law school at Tulane. While Bill Pryor did not go to Yale, he said, there is a broad consensus that Bill Pryor is a smart, intellectual and fair judge who most conservatives would happily see on a Supreme Court shortlist.
Brian T. Fitzpatrick, a law professor at Vanderbilt and a former clerk to Justice Scalia, had praise for Judge Ryan, the military judge, who is a former clerk to Justice Clarence Thomas and a graduate of Notre Dame Law School. She is just a tough-as-nails, no-nonsense kind of person, he said. She would be not a wishy-washy kind of conservative. People who dont want any more Souters wouldnt have to worry about her.
Both Mr. Jay and Professor Fitzpatrick said Justice Scalia would have been pleased to be succeeded by one of his former law clerks, Justice Joan Larsen of the Michigan Supreme Court. She went to law school at Northwestern, served in the Justice Department and taught law at the University of Michigan.
DUNDALK, Md. Raad and Hutham Lalqaraghuli are no longer sure which America theyre a part of.
Is it the hateful country they confronted a few weeks before the presidential election, when someone left a note at their door that said, Terrorist Leave no one wants you here?
Or is it the generous country of welcoming strangers who heard about their ordeal and showered them with gifts and cards with positive messages?
The victory of President-elect Donald J. Trump has intensified their whiplash. After a year in the Maryland suburbs, having arrived with their four children as refugees from Iraq, they find themselves comparing the threats they fled with those that might still emerge.
They did not sleep on election night after watching television coverage of the results.
They are very afraid and worried, Mr. Lalqaraghuli said on Wednesday. We dont know what this will mean.
This may not affect people on the top of our country, but it can only mean bad news for us merchants and lower, working-class people in Mexico, said Claudia Rivera, a street vendor who owns a food cart in Mexico City.
Outside of concerns about the election, violence has been soaring to levels not seen since the start of the drug war a decade ago. And corruption and a loss of faith in the political leadership had already plunged the nation into a state of gloom. Now, the loss for many is external, too.
A lot of people see the U.S. as a beacon of freedom, as something to aspire to, said Mr. Pardinas, who works on legislation and economic competitiveness. But what happens when you lose a role model, the role model of a nation? Now all of us who admired the U.S. are having second thoughts.
For most Mexicans, the American election has been a grim exercise in self-perception. Mr. Trump, a candidate who called Mexican immigrants rapists and criminals, vowing to deport millions and build a wall to keep others out, has stoked long-held insecurities in Mexico over sovereignty and respect from its northern neighbor. And his victory was seen by some as validating the perception that Americans, or at least half of them, see Mexico through a knot of stereotypes.
Never mind that Mexicos rich culture and cuisine, its art and film, are having a global moment, Mexicans say. Or that a wall between the two countries these days might actually keep more Mexicans in the United States than out, given the recent research showing more Mexicans are returning home than leaving to seek opportunity in America.
BEIJING It took all of five minutes for Wang Lei, a gruff veteran of the Peoples Liberation Army, to start humming and stomping his feet.
The curtain had just risen on The Long March, a new opera celebrating the early days of the Chinese Communist Party, and a rifle-toting chorus of performers dressed as soldiers was rushing onstage at the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing.
We come from different places, they sang as they took their places. Some wear straw sandals. Some wear gowns. Some are barefoot. Some are hungry. We differ in status, but we have the same aspiration: to join the Red Army. To change the world!
Mr. Wang, 73, seated next to me in the upper balcony, closed his eyes in bliss. These are the songs of our homeland, he told me at intermission. They might be lost now, but they reflect the true feelings of the Chinese people.
BEIJING A polar bear named Pizza, whose fate as an air-conditioned exhibit for shoppers in a mall in southern China prompted millions of animal lovers to call for the release of what they called the worlds saddest polar bear, is moving but only temporarily, his owners say.
The exhibition space at the Grandview Polar Sea World at the Grandview Mall in the steamy city of Guangzhou is being optimized and upgraded, causing the move, according to a notice on a social media account of the aquarium, where Pizza and hundreds of other arctic animals are housed indoors.
Pizza, the bear baby that a million customers have enjoyed, will say a temporary farewell to everyone for a while, to return to where he was born and to his daddy and mommy, the notice read.
Chinese animal welfare groups welcomed the news, but said it did not go far enough. Pizza should be permanently rehoused, they said.
MUMBAI, India In one of the most audacious experiments in Indias modern history, Prime Minister Narendra Modi banned the two largest bills of 500 rupees, or about $7.50, and 1,000 rupees which account for about 86 percent of the currency in a country where 78 percent of financial transactions are done in cash.
Under the plan, people are allowed to exchange the old bills for new ones of 500 and 2,000 rupees, but only at banks or post offices, where their exchanges will be monitored and anyone with a large amount of cash will have to explain its source. The changes, meant to combat corruption and tax avoidance, have thrown the country into chaos. Here are answers to a few basic questions about the changes.
Why did the government remove the bills from circulation?
The idea was to expose and penalize people holding huge amounts of cash they could not account for, primarily money on which taxes have not been paid. Most of the so-called black money is held in 500- and 1,000-rupee notes. Someone who goes to a bank or post office with more than 250,000 rupees in cash, or about $3,700, has to explain the source of the money to the tax authorities.
People who can explain how they earned the money and show that taxes were paid can keep it. But those without a good explanation will have to answer to the tax authorities.
Mr. Rafizi, a member of the Peoples Justice Party, has been a leading critic of Prime Minister Najib Razak, who is accused of receiving $1 billion from 1 Malaysia Development Berhad, or 1MDB, a government investment fund that Mr. Najib established and oversaw. Mr. Najib has said that he never received any money from the fund or took anything for personal gain.
The United States Justice Department says that more than $3 billion is missing from the fund and that at least $731 million of it was deposited into the personal bank account of the prime minister, identified as Malaysian Official 1. The Justice Department filed suit in federal court in California in July to recover more than $1 billion in assets that it said were acquired by Mr. Najibs stepson and close associates in the United States with money stolen from the fund, including high-end real estate and expensive artwork.
The prime minister has held on to power by firing critics within his own party, blocking investigations and suppressing dissent. No one in Malaysia has been prosecuted over the missing money.
The government conducted an audit of the investment fund, which it then classified as secret under the Official Secrets Act. Mr. Rafizis conviction was based on comments he made at a news conference in March in which he discussed a page of the audit that dealt with the funds failure to make payments.
Image Rafizi Ramli, a member of the Peoples Justice Party. Credit... Associated Press
Around the time of his sentencing, Mr. Rafizi posted on Twitter: I am not shocked, sad, angry, afraid or anything. No such feelings. Just another day. Been like this. What doesnt kill u makes u stronger. He did not respond to requests for comment, but associates said they expected him to appeal.
BEIJING Donald J. Trump has called China a currency manipulator, threatened to impose stiff tariffs on Chinese imports and accused the country of inventing the idea of climate change to hurt American businesses.
But in his first telephone conversation with President Xi Jinping of China, Mr. Trump, now the president-elect, appeared to set aside those critiques expressed on the campaign trail, vowing that the two nations would have one of the strongest relationships, according to a statement released by Mr. Trumps transition office, Reuters reported.
Mr. Xi, in turn, told Mr. Trump that facts have shown that cooperation is the only correct choice for the United States and China, according to Xinhua, the Chinese state news agency.
In the phone call, which took place on Monday Beijing time, the two men agreed to maintain close communications and to meet at an early date.
The prosecutor of the International Criminal Court said Monday that she had a reasonable basis to believe that American soldiers committed war crimes in Afghanistan, including torture.
The international prosecutor has been considering whether to begin a full-fledged investigation into potential war crimes in Afghanistan for years. In Mondays announcement, the prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda, signaled that a full investigation was likely.
Still, the prosecutor did not announce a final decision on an investigation, which would have to be approved by judges, and it is unlikely that the United States will cooperate.
The United States is not a party to the court, which was established to prosecute war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. But Afghanistan is a member of the court, so allegations of crimes committed in its territory, no matter the nationality of the perpetrators, are widely considered to be fair game.
LONDON Six years after the Swedish authorities opened an investigation into a rape accusation made against Julian Assange, the WikiLeaks founder, he was questioned about the matter on Monday.
The questions were prepared by prosecutors in Sweden, where an arrest warrant for Mr. Assange was issued in 2010, but were posed by a prosecutor from Ecuador under an agreement the two countries made in August. Ecuador granted Mr. Assange political asylum in 2012, and the interview occurred at the Ecuadorean Embassy in London. Mr. Assange has lived in the embassy since June 2012 to avoid extradition to Sweden over the rape accusation.
WikiLeaks has published damaging and confidential information from the United States and many other governments. Before last weeks presidential election, WikiLeaks distributed hacked emails from the Democratic National Committee, while Mr. Assange has excoriated Hillary Clinton, the Democratic nominee.
No formal charges have been filed against Mr. Assange, a 45-year-old native of Australia. He denies the rape accusation, originally made in 2010, but has refused to go to Sweden to face questioning because he says he fears he would then be extradited to the United States. Swedish officials say those fears are ungrounded.
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Nov. 14
By Huseyn Hasanov Trend:
A meeting was held in Ashgabat between Turkmenistans President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and the Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, said the Turkmen state news agency Dovlet Habarlary.
Berdimuhamedov expressed confidence that the meeting will initiate a new phase of Turkmenistan-Palestine cooperation, which has been steadily developing since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1992.
Turkmenistan, which implements its foreign policy based on the principles of positive neutrality, is interested in the development of equitable and friendly relations with all world countries, including the Middle East countries and Palestine in particular, said the Turkmen president.
Issues concerning cooperation in the economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres, particularly in education and tourism, are on the agenda of the negotiations.
The two heads of state exchanged views on the prospects of the Turkmenistan-Palestine cooperation, confirming the commitment of the parties to intensifying the political dialogue, Dovlet Habarlary reported.
PARIS Before last week, Greece expected that it might benefit from what was supposed to be a triumphal valedictory lap by President Obama as he lands in Athens on Tuesday to kick off his final world tour.
Mr. Obama has been supportive of Greeces efforts to get its finances in order, and of Europes bid to keep Greece stable. Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras hoped that Mr. Obama, who travels to Berlin on Thursday, might even persuade the German chancellor, Angela Merkel, to offer Greece some debt relief by the end of the year.
But that possibility has all but evaporated with the victory of Donald J. Trump.
Instead, Mr. Obama will arrive in Athens with his legacy threatened and his leverage sorely reduced. His visit has turned into yet another reminder of the ways in which Mr. Trumps ascendancy is changing the calculations of leaders across Europe. Mr. Tsipras is among the most vulnerable of them.
The expectation was that Obama would relay a message about how impressed he was with Greeces progress, said Jens Bastian, an economics consultant based in Athens and a former member of the European Commissions task force on Greece. But given that Trump will assume the presidency, all bets are off.
WARSAW The bodies of Polands former president and his wife were exhumed Monday evening as part of an investigation into an April 2010 plane crash in Russia that killed the couple after years of speculation, backed by little evidence, that the crash was not an accident.
Over the next two months, prosecutors appointed by Polands right-wing governing party plan to examine the remains of 83 of the 96 people who died in the crash, starting with the former president, Lech Kaczynski, and his wife, Maria. The couples bodies were interred in a crypt in a cathedral in Krakow, near the tombs of Polands kings and heroes like the military commander Thaddeus Kosciuszko and the poet Adam Mickiewicz.
Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the former presidents twin brother and the leader of the ruling Law and Justice Party, was on hand for the ceremony, at the Wawel Cathedral.
The party has long insisted that investigations by Polands former government and the Russian authorities failed to unearth the true cause of the crash. Reopening the investigation was one of the first acts of the new government after assuming power a year ago.
MOSCOW A Russian fighter jet crashed off the Syrian coast on Monday while trying to land on an aging aircraft carrier in the Mediterranean, Russian military officials said.
The Russian Defense Ministry blamed a technical failure for the crash of the jet, a MIG-29, according to a ministry statement carried by the Interfax news agency. The pilot, who was the only one in the jet, ejected safely and was picked up by a rescue team, the statement said.
The ministrys statement did not specify whether the airplane had crashed on the carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov, or into water.
In a separate statement, the ministry said that rebels in Aleppo had used chemical weapons in an attack on the Syrian Army, poisoning around 30 of its servicemen.
Eleanors efforts to fight racism, white supremacy and Jim Crow in the United States were more successful. Insisting that the country could not effectively champion democracy in the world when it practiced racial discrimination at home, she declared that because black Americans were our largest minority, our attitude toward them will have to be faced first of all. Her efforts to fight lynching and end segregation in the military for men and women were backed up by her support for the N.A.A.C.P., her friendships with black activists and artists including Mary McLeod Bethune, Pauli Murray and Harry Belafonte, and her championing of Marian Andersons concert at the Lincoln Memorial.
Eleanors prodigious activity served as her antidote to loneliness, anxiety and the periods of depression she called Griselda moods. Cook weaves in a detailed account of her astonishing schedule; she spoke on the radio, gave lectures and talks and consulted speech specialists to help her lower and steady her voice. She traveled often, to meet people from migrant workers in California to wounded soldiers in Bora Bora. She kept up with art and music, and read The Grapes of Wrath and For Whom the Bell Tolls. Six days a week, from 1935 to 1962, she wrote a syndicated newspaper column called My Day, often composing it after midnight, in bed, in cars, on planes, or dictating to her secretary from the bathtub. By 1939, these columns, which covered her travels, her home life, her views on human rights and her bracing, comforting words on courage in frightening times, reached more than four million readers. In December 1944, Cook suggests, Eleanor was the first American journalist to discuss Auschwitz.
But in these tumultuous decades, which gave Eleanor the opportunity to play a major role on the national stage, her private life receded, submerged in the torrent of history. In 1940, Hickok wrote to her about the growing conflict between the real woman and the public image: I . . . fought for years an anguished and losing fight against the development of the person into the personage, she lamented. I still think the personage is an accident, Eleanor replied, and I only like the part of life in which I am a person! Yet there are only a few places in the biography when she is introspective. In a 1943 letter to her old friend Esther Lape, she described the consequences of perpetually playing a role: I find it hard to know sometimes whether I am being honest with myself. So much of life is play acting, it becomes too natural! On her life with Franklin, she concluded in the same letter, there is no fundamental love to draw on, just respect and affection. . . . On my part there is often a great weariness and a sense of futility in life but a lifelong discipline in a sense of obligation and a healthy interest in people keeps me going. I guess that is plenty to go on for ones aging years!
Cook shows Eleanor Roosevelts final years as triumphant. After her husbands death in 1945, Truman appointed her to the United States delegation for the first United Nations assembly in London, where she helped write the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Yet the last part of the biography emphasizes the personage rather than the person. No longer part of a loving community of women, Eleanor found her most intimate emotional relationships with younger men the writer Joseph Lash, and her personal physician, David Gurewitsch leading to complex triangular bonds with their wives that deserve deeper and fuller analysis.
Who are we? This seems like a good time to ask. How did things get here? How did the country reach this place?
You can hear the disbelief in the voice of anyone asking some version of these questions. But disbelief tends to be emotionally counterproductive. You cant do much with it. I, at least, actually can believe that half the country was scared enough to vote for a candidate who more or less promised to keep the other half scared of him. Theyre worried about who we are, too, and insisting on one answer. But really, who are we? Were this: the oppressed and their oppressors, the afraid and the feared, hope and dread, change and deadlock, all fooled forever by delusions of our even being a single we.
That delusion is elemental to our nationhood. We the people of the United States so begins the Constitutions preamble. The Declaration of Independence asserts that We hold these truths to be self-evident. We is a big-tent pronoun. It welcomes. It represents. It mobilizes. It includes. But inclusion gets tricky fast. For ages it was more like, We the people eh, some of them. A lot of those people have been merely notional. The Constitution granted partial humanity to slaves, making them three-fifths a person only to advantage Southern lawmakers representational head count. It called women people but entrusted their personhood to men.
So that trickiness is elemental, too. We is conditional, contingent, up for debate. For ages, we wasnt more than one gender or race or sexual orientation. We was white, straight and male. The great moral force of the 20th century and, so far, the 21st, was the fight to bring greater self-evidence to even more truths: suffrage, civil rights, marriage equality, religious pluralism, laws acknowledging the existence of the disabled. The euphoria of putting a black man in the White House became who we were as much as the clamoring to put him out. Yes, we could. But expanding the meaning of we is hard; a black president doesnt ease that, and neither would a female one. And right now, white people tired of the ongoing battle for all manners of equality, of civility, appear to have switched sides.
Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Nov. 14
By Demir Azizov Trend:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $120-million loan to improve access to safe, reliable, sustainable and affordable water supply services for over 260,000 inhabitants in the Kibray and Zangiota districts of Uzbekistans Tashkent province, the ADB said in a message.
The ADB loan will be allocated for eight years at the rate of 2 percent per year, including a five-year grace period. It is expected that a loan agreement will be signed until the end of the first quarter of 2017.
Much of the water supply infrastructure in Tashkent has deteriorated and needs extensive rehabilitation, resulting in unreliable services, leakage losses, and high water pollution risk, said Hao Zhang, ADBs principal urban development specialist with the Central and West Asia Department. The project will significantly reduce time and money spent by households and businesses to access water and brings about improved living standards, especially in rural settlements.
The project will revitalize the Kadirya regional water supply system by upgrading existing water supply networks, providing potable water treatment services, rehabilitating water distribution network and improving the financial, operational and system management of the Tashkent Provincial Suvokova for Kibray and Zangiota district branches.
Located adjacent to the Uzbek capital, Kibray and Zangiota contribute substantially to the provinces economic growth and strengthen its urbanrural linkages. Both districts have considerable expansion potential in the agro-industrial and textile industries. Zangiota is also identified as a possible location for a future special industrial zone.
The ADB office in Tashkent told Trend that the projects total cost is $143 million. Along with the ADB loans, the Uzbek government and local beneficiaries will also allocate $23 million for the projects implementation. The project will be implemented until 2023.
Since Uzbekistan joined ADB in 1995, the country has received $5.1 billion in loans and $64.9 million in technical assistance grants.
ADB, based in Manila, is dedicated to reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth and regional integration.
Established in 1966, ADB in December 2016 will mark 50 years of development partnership in the region. It is owned by 67 members 48 from the region. In 2015, ADB assistance totaled $27.2 billion, including co-financing of $10.7 billion.
Executive Actions
1 Clean Power Plan Regulations to curb pollution from coal-fired power plants.
2 Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Protects undocumented immigrants who came to the United States as children.
3 Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents Intended to shield undocumented immigrants from deportation, but an appeals court ruling blocking the plan remains in place after a 4-to-4 tie in the Supreme Court.
4 Waters of the United States Rule intended to protect waterways and wetlands.
Legislation
5 Affordable Care Act In an interview Friday, Mr. Trump indicated he might keep parts of President Obamas signature legislative achievement.
6 Dodd-Frank Overhauled regulation of the financial industry in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis.
7 Defense sequester Automatic, across-the-board spending restrictions.
8 Alternative minimum tax Aimed at making it harder for the affluent to take advantage of various tax breaks.
9 Estate tax Currently applies to only about 5,300 of the richest families.
10 Gun-free zones At military bases and at schools.
International Obligations
11 Paris Climate Change Agreement Commits more than 190 countries to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide.
12 North American Free Trade Agreement Trade deal signed by United States, Canada and Mexico more than 20 years ago.
13 Trans-Pacific Partnership Trade deal among the United States and several Asian countries.
14 Payments to United Nations climate fund
Federal Agencies
15 Education Department It is massive, and it can largely be eliminated.
16 Environmental Protection Agency We are going to get rid of it in almost every form.
Other
17 Undocumented immigrants with criminal records
18 Federal funding of so-called sanctuary cities Places where local authorities have stopped cooperating with federal immigration agents.
19 Common Core Learning standards for math and English.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
By Khalid Kazimov Trend:
Iranian Transport Minister Abbas Akhoundi and his Chinese counterpart Li Xiaopeng have called for expansion of cooperation in transportation sphere.
The visiting Iranian minister, Abbas Akhoundi, has said that the two countries enjoy proper cooperation in transportation sphere including roads and railways, expressing hope for deepening of the existing ties, IRNA news agency reported.
He further called on China to participate in projects for developing Irans ports, railway system and airports through tenders.
The minister also touched upon a plan for connecting the two countries through railway and urged for launching scheduled passenger and freight trains between Iran and China.
Akhoundi arrived in Beijing this morning and he is expected to meet several senior Chinese officials during the ongoing visit.
ALEPPO, Syria At least 11 children were among 23 people killed Sunday in northern Syria as pro-government forces kept up their campaign against opposition areas in the countrys north, while rebels shelled a government-held district in Aleppo city.
At least eight more people were killed in a suspected airstrike on a crossing point connecting Kurdish-held areas with rebel areas in northern Aleppo province, the Kurdish security force said.
The violence Sunday comes a day after government troops repelled a rebel offensive on western parts of Aleppo city launched in late October. State news agency SANA said the shelling of a western Aleppo district killed four people, including two women and a child.
Aleppo has been deeply divided since 2012. The faltering rebel offensive was designed to break the siege on the opposition-held eastern Aleppo.
The government siege has left an estimated 275,000 people trapped with no aid allowed in since July, amid a punishing bombing campaign. The rebel offensive started after Russia, a major Syrian government ally, said it would halt airstrikes to allow rebels and supporters to leave eastern Aleppo. The rebels refused to take up the offer and the United Nations failed to negotiate allowing aid into the besieged area, amid wide anticipation of an imminent pro-government offensive.
Residents of eastern Aleppo said Sunday that for days they have received text messages urging them to leave in the next 24 hours. It was not possible to immediately verify the authenticity of the messages or who sent them. Government aircraft had previously dropped fliers on the eastern districts also urging residents to leave and make use of the Russian-declared passageways to evacuate the besieged district.
Three residents said they received the messages Friday and Sunday throughout the day, denouncing the opposition and threatening residents with an attack.
As of Sunday evening, Syrian Civil Defenses Ibrahim al-Haj said government artillery shelling in the al-Salheen neighborhood of besieged eastern Aleppo killed a mother, her four children and her husband traveling in a car. Other shelling killed a child, a woman and three men in two different neighborhoods of the besieged territory, al-Haj said.
While airstrikes on eastern Aleppo city have subsided, aerial bombings of rebel-held western parts of Aleppo province continued. The Syrian Civil Defense, which operates in opposition-held areas, said one of its centers was bombed in rural Aleppo and put out of service in airstrikes on the town of Atareb. The strikes also killed three people, including two children.
Meanwhile, a suspected airstrike is believed to have struck at a border crossing in Kurdish-held Afrin canton, which links the area to rebel-held parts of Aleppo province, the Kurdish security force, known as the Asayish, said Sunday. The Asayish statement, carried by the Kurdish news agency Hawar, said the bombing occurred early Sunday on a crossing used by as many as 5,000 people moving from western rural Aleppo to its north and east, mostly opposition areas. The Observatory put the death toll from the explosion there at 12. It didnt say whether it was an airstrike or an explosion.
In the complex terrain of northern Syria, it was not immediately clear who was behind the bombing.
Rival groups jostle for territory in northern Aleppo, including Turkish-backed rebels and rival Kurdish forces, as well as government troops, all seeking to capture areas held by Islamic State militants.
In rebel-held northern Idlib province, the opposition Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and Aleppo Today media group said airstrikes killed an entire family of a mother and her four children.
Near the capital Damascus, in the western Ghouta region, opposition activists said airstrikes in Khan al-Shih hit a mosque around dawn Sunday, killing at least two people, including the mosques cleric.
The local Khan al-Shih media center and the Syrian Civil Defense in Rural Damascus reported the airstrikes. The Observatory also reported the strike on the mosque, and the subsequent two deaths. It was not immediately possible to verify if the airstrikes were from Russian or government aircraft. The Khan al-Shih media center showed footage of extensive damage to the mosque.
The town of Khan al-Shih has been the scene of intensive fighting and airstrikes for weeks amid a tightening government siege. There have been reports of local dignitaries negotiating with the government to end the bombing campaign in exchange for evacuating the rebels.
The state news agency reported Syrian troops have advanced and tightened their siege on the town, which lies about 25 kilometers (15 miles) south of Damascus and along the highway that links the capital to the southern region of Quneitra. Other rebel-held suburbs of Damascus were recaptured by the government after a tightening siege and heavy bombings.
AP-WF-11-13-16 2227GMT
EDITORS NOTE: This is a weekly look at the latest key developments in the South China Sea, home to several territorial conflicts that have raised tensions in the region.
BANGKOK (AP) A look at recent developments in the South China Sea, where China is pitted against smaller neighbors in multiple disputes over islands, coral reefs and lagoons in waters crucial for global commerce and rich in fish and potential oil and gas reserves:
TRUMP ADVISER: U.S. WILL CONTINUE TO KEEP CHINA IN CHECK
President-elect Donald Trump still hasnt made his foreign policy objectives clear, but his senior adviser on national security says the U.S. wont abandon its Asian allies to Chinas overreach.
James Woolsey, in an opinion piece published in the South China Morning Post on Thursday, said the new administration would need to reverse defense budget cuts and make sure the U.S. was still the leading military force in the world.
The U.S. sees itself as the holder of the balance of power in Asia and is likely to remain quite determined to protect its allies against Chinese overreach, said Woolsey, who served as CIA director under President Bill Clinton. China should realize that our reflexes in Asia are not driven by territorial ambitions.
Over U.S. objections, Beijing has moved to cement its claim to most of the South China Sea, including by building artificial islands and military airstrips atop coral reefs. With Trumps election, many analysts said Trumps isolationist foreign policy will give China more maneuvering room to pursue its territorial claims in the East and South China seas.
During the election campaign, Trump in April said that Chinas building of man-made islands in the disputed waters was a sign of Beijings disrespect for America.
NEW PHILIPPINE ENVOY TO CHINA SAYS DEAL POSSIBLE
The new Philippine ambassador to China says its possible to achieve a settlement with Beijing in the disputed South China Sea.
Jose Santiago Chito Santa Romana says his country could learn from Vietnam and the former Soviet Union, which managed to reach a detente with China through good political relations and quiet diplomacy despite quarrels over territory.
Vietnam, however, continues to be entangled in the dispute over the Paracel Islands while making progress with China over other border issues.
The basic lesson is, if you use hardball tactics with China, expect the same. So when you say, What is ours is ours, they will say the same thing. And if you dont yield, and if you combine it with just megaphone diplomacy and forcing your way, expect that therell be a stalemate, Santa Romana said at a forum in Manila organized by the state-run China Daily.
He said the Philippines under President Rodrigo Duterte is separating the disputes from economic relations with Beijing.
Dutertes groundbreaking visit to Beijing resulted in China allowing Filipino fishermen back in the waters around the disputed Scarborough Shoal, which China seized from the Philippines in 2012, a year before Manila launched and won an international arbitration case against Chinas claims.
However, Chinas coast guard has remained at the shoal and Filipinos are not allowed to fish inside the lagoon.
Santa Romana said that Scarborough was just an informal, friendly understanding, and there is a need to slowly formalize it and establish rules of engagement between the coast guards of the countries.
The Chinese, of course, still maintains their effective control because they have a sovereignty claim, he said. But now the Philippine coast guard is trying to have a roving presence so that, eventually, we could say we have not given up our sovereignty claim when we resolve it diplomatically.
CHINA SAYS SOUTH CHINA SEA HAS STABILIZED
China says tensions in the South China Sea have eased because of friendly cooperation with the Philippines and other Southeast Asian nations.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said managing differences through negotiations is is back on the right track, the official Xinhua News Agency reported.
Lu noted that China has border treaties with 12 out of its 14 land neighbors, and that as long as they are sincere and patient, most differences can be handled through consultation and negotiation.
BAGHDAD (AP) Suicide bombers targeted two major cities in Iraq on Monday, striking security forces in the Sunni city of Fallujah and Shiite pilgrims in the holy city of Karbala in the countrys south, killing at least six people in each attack.
The bombings are an apparent attempt by the Islamic State group to strike back as government troops advance on their stronghold in the northern city of Mosul. The Sunni militant group claimed responsibility for both bombings.
In Fallujah, the attack was carried out by twin suicide car bombers in the city center the first such incidents since Iraqi forces in late June declared it fully liberated of Islamic State militants after a monthlong operation aided by U.S.-led airstrikes.
Interior Ministry spokesman Brig. Gen Saad Maan said one of the Fallujah bombers killed two policemen and wounded 17 people, including nine civilians.
They hit a security checkpoint, he said, adding that traffic had been heavy in the area and around 10 vehicles including an ambulance had been damaged. The second bomber killed four people, including two policemen.
IS claimed responsibility for the attack, posting videos online of the bombers before the attack, their faces masked and brandishing assault rifles. Fallujah was the first Iraqi city to fall to IS, in January 2014. Since IS was driven out, families have begun returning to the city, 40 miles (65 kilometers) west of Baghdad.
Earlier in the day, a suicide bombing targeted the sacred Shiite city of Karbala, killing at least six civilians in an attack also claimed by IS.
According to Maan, the ministry spokesman, six suicide bombers tried to sneak into Karbala from its western outskirts but security forces detected and killed five of them. The sixth attacker broke into a house in the citys Ayn al-Tamer neighborhood, where he detonated his suicide vest, killing six people and wounding another six, Maan said.
The attack came as hundreds of thousands of faithful Shiites have been walking to Karbala to commemorate the 7th century death of Imam Hussein, Prophet Muhammads grandson and an iconic Shiite martyr. The city, where Imam Hussein and his brother are buried, is located some 90 kilometers (55 miles) south of Baghdad. On Sunday, pilgrims are expected to converge on the city for the climax of a 40-day mourning period, known as al-Arbaeen.
In an online statement, the Islamic State group said it targeted polytheists in filthy Karbala. It put the number of the suicide bombers at five, saying they clashed for hours with the security forces and set off their explosives consecutively when they ran out ammunition.
The militants often exaggerate their claims. The Associated Press could not verify the authenticity of the statement, but it was posted on a militant website commonly used by the extremist group.
Like other Sunni extremist groups, IS considers the Shiites heretics and has frequently targeted Shiite civilians and places of worship.
We are walking all these long distances, we are not afraid of terrorists, we are not afraid of Daesh, said 56-year-old pilgrim Sattar Hussein, using the Arabic acronym for IS. We are not afraid of anyone who defames Islam. And especially those who are targeting the al-Arbaeen.
Wearing a black traditional Arab dress, Hussein was among hundreds of pilgrims leaving Baghdad on foot to head to Karbala under tight security measures. Some of the marchers were carrying religious flags, including some with a portrait depicting Imam Hussein, as security forces set up check points to search them.
In southern Iraqs Shiite heartland, Karbala is far from Mosul, where a massive Iraqi military operation launched last month and backed by U.S.-led coalition airstrikes and paramilitary militias is underway to free the city, Iraqs second-largest, from IS.
A U.N. spokesman said Monday that more than 54,000 people have fled their homes as a result of the Iraqi military operation to retake Mosul from IS militants. Farhan Haq said that number represented an increase of 6,600 people since four days ago.
About three quarters of the displaced people are being shelter in camps set up by the U.N. and its humanitarian partners and one quarter are been housed in host communities, Haq said.
He added that the World Food Program has provided food assistance to more than 100,000 people fleeing the conflict, including a distribution to 25,000 people on Sunday in Gogjali, the first neighborhood retaken inside Mosul.
On Sunday, a wave of attacks in and around Baghdad killed at least 23 people and wounded 70 others. Many of the assaults targeted Shiite pilgrims walking toward Karbala.
Associated Press writers Michael Astor at the United Nations and contributed to this report.
Tehran, Iran, November 14
By Mehdi Sepahvand - Trend:
Iran is in talks with two German companies to open lines of credit with a total value of 12 billion euros, according to National Petrochemical Companys Chief Investment Officer Hossein Alimorad.
In the meantime, he said, the Central Bank of Iran and the Ministry of Economy are in talks with China, South Korea, and two or three European countries to open LCs, SHANA news agency reported November 14.
He further said Iran is in talks with a Japanese company to open an LC worth 640 million euros.
Shortly after the implementation day of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in January, Irans first international LC was opened by a Japanese company. Worth 320 million euros, the LC went to the Persian Gulf Holding.
Facing tapering oil revenues after the fall of prices in the global market, Iran is making attempts to attract foreign investment to its developmental plans, in the energy sector in particular.
HUGHSON A man suspected of shooting a sheriffs deputy twice in the head in Central California was arrested hours after the killing on Sunday when he tried to steal a womans purse, authorities said.
Stanislaus County Sheriffs Deputy Dennis Wallace was shot at point-blank range as he checked on a report of a suspicious van parked near a fishing access spot outside the city of Hughson, about 10 miles southeast of Modesto, county Sheriff Adam Christianson said.
We believe that Deputy Wallace was killed outside of the car, and we know for a fact that the gun used in this crime was in direct contact with his head when the trigger was pulled twice, Christianson told a news conference. This was an execution.
Wallace was alone when he came across the van Sunday morning. A dispatcher told him the vehicle was stolen, so he asked for backup. Another deputy found Wallace a short time later. He was taken to a hospital, where he died, the department said.
The suspect, identified as David Machado, 36, fled in the van and carjacked a white Kia sedan in the nearby city of Keyes, police said.
While on the run, Machado committed an armed robbery in the town of Lindsay, about 150 miles south of where the shooting occurred, Christianson said. Then, shortly after noon, he tried to steal a womans purse at a convenience store.
The woman fought Machado and called police. He ran from the scene, but he was caught by officers a short time later.
The Lindsay police officers didnt recognize Machado as the suspect in Wallaces killing until after he was taken into custody, when they identified him through tattoos and a photograph issued by Stanislaus County.
Christianson said Machado was wanted for a felony warrant at the time of the traffic stop. He did not elaborate on the alleged crime.
He said authorities have recovered the van and the Kia sedan as evidence in the investigation.
Wallace, 53, is survived by his wife, Mercedes, and children. He was a 20-year department veteran who lived and worked in Hughson, where he was involved in youth soccer, refereed football games and taught schoolchildren how to avoid drugs and violence in the D.A.R.E. program.
He wasnt just assigned to Hughson; hes a fixture in Hughson. He was so well-loved, county Supervisor Vito Chiesa told the Modesto Bee.
Wallace is the fifth law enforcement officer in California to die in the line of duty in the last five weeks. The slaying comes after a deputy in Modoc County was killed while responding to a call about a disturbance, two Palm Springs police officers were shot to death during a domestic disturbance call, and a Los Angeles County sheriffs sergeant was shot and killed in the high-desert town of Lancaster while answering a burglary call.
MARRAKECH, Morocco Worldwide emissions of heat-trapping carbon dioxide have flattened out in the past three years, a new study showed Monday, raising hopes that the world is nearing a turning point in the fight against climate change.
However, the authors of the study cautioned its unclear whether the slowdown in CO2 emissions, mainly caused by declining coal use in China, is a permanent trend or a temporary blip.
It is far too early to proclaim we have reached a peak, said co-author Glen Peters, a senior researcher at the Center for International Climate and Environmental Research in Oslo.
The study, published in the journal Earth System Science Data, says global CO2 emissions from fossil fuels and industry is projected to grow by just 0.2 percent this year.
That would mean emissions have leveled off at about 36 billion metric tons in the past three years even though the world economy has expanded, suggesting the historical bonds between economic gains and emissions growth may have been severed.
This could be the turning point we have hoped for, said David Ray, a professor of carbon management at the University of Edinburgh, who was not involved with the study. To tackle climate change those bonds must be broken and here we have the first signs that they are at least starting to loosen.
China, which accounts for almost 30 percent of global carbon emissions, pledged to peak its emissions around 2030 as part of the global climate pact adopted in Paris last year. Many analysts say Chinas peak is likely to come much earlier and may already have occurred.
BRUSSELS Perplexed foreign ministers from the European Union nations met Sunday to try to assess the election of Donald Trump as U.S. president, underlining the uncertainty for Americas closest allies over issues as wide-ranging as Iran, Russia and climate change.
The emergency dinner gathering was a measure of how suddenly the U.S.-Europe relationship has been cast into disarray by the election of a man most European leaders openly campaigned against. The EU is deeply dependent on U.S. cooperation for a host of European priorities, many of which Trump called into question on the campaign trail. Even the most fundamental issue appears to be in flux: American guarantees for Europes security that have underpinned Western relations since World War II.
Diplomats from some of Europes most powerful countries say they have little basis to judge how Trump will govern or what his priorities will be upon taking over the White House. Unlike most conventional campaigns, which maintain basic outreach to the embassies of U.S. partners ahead of the election, Trumps advisers spurned EU diplomats efforts to meet, leaving foreign leaders grasping for information.
The European Union nations will be partners with the United States based on our own values, principles, interests, EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said after the dinner. But she said that she was preparing the 28-nation bloc to stand more on its own on defense and security matters. She said she had pushed for the need to strengthen European unity around some key issues that will be even more crucial in the months to come.
Before the election, EU foreign and defense ministers had already been scheduled to meet Monday and Tuesday, but the Sunday evening dinner was added after the unexpected result. Not all EU foreign ministers attended; those of Britain and France questioned whether a U.S. election was truly a crisis. Hungarys anti-immigration government has welcomed the Trump victory.
Trump has called into question the need for NATO, the Western military alliance that has recently beefed up its presence in Eastern European member countries that are nervous about Russia. European and NATO leaders have pointed out that the single time NATO nations came to the defense of a member nation under attack was on behalf of the United States following Sept. 11, 2001. They say that if the White House goes in a different direction, American interests would also suffer.
Rather than deepening our differences, we need to nurture what unites us, wrote NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in Britains Sunday Observer newspaper. Going it alone is not an option, either for Europe or for the United States.
Californias warm weather, sunny beaches and world-class schools have lured people to the Golden State for decades, but rising home prices are turning that equation around.
Data analysis firm CoreLogic says that for every two homebuyers who moved to California from 2000 through 2015, five others sold their homes, packed up and moved out.
Arizona and Texas were the top destinations for people moving out of California, CoreLogic reported. Only New Jersey had a higher ratio of fleeing homeowners during that period.
California had the largest number of out-migrants in 2015, CoreLogic Senior Economist Kristine Yao said in a blog post published Thursday.
The trend of out-migration was also noted in a separte trio of reports released earlier this year by Beacon Economics. Beacon noted that 625,000 more U.S. residents left California between 2007 and 2014 than moved into the state. The vast majority ended up in Texas, Oregon, Nevada, Arizona and Washington.
The search for more affordable housing is sending low- and middle-income workers out of the state, while higher-wage workers continue to move in, which argues against the theory that high taxes are driving people away.
California has an employment boom with a housing problem, said Beacon founding partner Christopher Thornberg. The state continues to offer great employment opportunities for all kinds of workers, but housing affordability and supply represent a significant problem.
Home prices and rents have been rising steadily for more than four years.
CoreLogic figures show Orange Countys median home price was up 42 percent in the four years ending in September. Prices were up 55 percent in Los Angeles County, 57 percent in Riverside County and 75 percent in San Bernardino County.
Although home sellers leaving California last year paid, on average, 36 percent less for their new homes out of state, they tended to end up in better neighborhoods, CoreLogic reported. Their purchase prices ranked in the 77th percentile for their new metro areas, while their sale prices ranked in the 62 percentile back home.
Of the homeowners moving out of state, more of them sold in high appreciation, high cost areas and bought in lower appreciation, more affordable areas, Yao wrote.
California home prices have risen in part because of a lack of inventory.
From 2005 to 2015, permits were filed for only 21.5 housing units per every 100 new residents in the state. That put the Golden State second to last behind Alaska, where only 16.2 housing permits were filed for every 100 new residents.
On the flip side, Michigan saw 166 permits filed for every 100 new residents.
Register staff writer Jeff Collins contributed to this report.
WINNIPEG, Manitoba Adam Lowry enjoyed watching Patrik Laine and Mark Scheifele team up to lift the Winnipeg Jets to another victory Sunday.
The Jets scoring duo each found the back of the net in a 3-2 shootout victory over the Kings, with Scheifele netting the decisive goal against Peter Budaj.
Dwight King scored against Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck in the shootout.
Patriks goal really displays the puck skills he has, and then Scheifs (goal) with his quick release there, said Lowry, who had a goal and an assist in regulation. Those are two huge goals and theyre always fun to watch.
Laine, the rookie who was leading the NHL in goals with 11 heading into the game, faked a shot on Budaj and then beat him through the pads. Scheifele, who was leading the NHL in points with 20, slowed down in front of the goalie and then sent a wrist shot by him on his blocker side.
The Jets are 3-0-1 in their last four games and 8-7-2 overall. The Kings have lost three straight to drop to 7-8-1.
Both teams are coming off tough travel (and) back-to-back games, said Kings coach Darryl Sutter, whose club was playing its fourth game of a five-game trip. If you look at the end of it, we didnt give up a 5-on-5 goal. You usually win those games.
Kings forward Kyle Clifford was called for a boarding major in the first period for a hit that sent Jets forward Kyle Connor into the boards head-first. Lowry and Marko Dano took advantage with power-play goals.
Connor left for the dressing room, but returned for the second period.
Sutter sarcastically said Clifford deserved the penalty-box time.
I totally agreed with it, it was a great call, Sutter said. I thought theyd give like a 10-minute power play. In todays two-referee system, youre just hoping for one really good one all of the time.
Tanner Pearson scored in the first period for the Kings, and defenseman Tom Gilbert tied it midway through the third. Kings forward Jordan Nolan took out a defender in the corner and skated alone around the back of the net before sending a pass to Gilbert out front.
The Kings took a power play into overtime after Scheifele was called for tripping with 1:28 left. The Kings also finished overtime with the man advantage when Laine was called for tripping with 37 seconds left.
Hellebuyck and Budaj each made 27 saves.
The Kings were without injured captain Anze Kopitar and goalie Jeff Zatkoff.
The Kings, who were 0 for 5 on the power play, end their five-game trip in Colorado on Tuesday night.
VACHON TO ENTER HOCKEY HALL
Former Kings goalie Rogie Vachon, 71, will be enshrined Monday in the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.
Vachon won 171 games in seven seasons with the Kings, part of a 16-year career that featured 355 victories in 795 games with the Kings, Montreal Canadiens, Detroit Red Wings and Boston Bruins.
He won three Stanley Cup championships with the Canadiens.
Last mid-October, I flew into Montreal, the fourth-largest city of French speakers in the world, knowing very little of what to expect, except that it would be cold 40-degrees-during-the-day cold.
The first thing I noticed taking public transportation to a hotel downtown wasnt any buildings resembling those in Paris, but that the street names were unexpectedly challenging to navigate.
Most streets started with Rue, French for street, followed by words that are not intuitive or immediately pronounceable to a native English speaker. Asking locals not the least stuck up, as Parisians are by reputation didnt help much, as the street names were just as confusing spoken quickly in French as they were on paper.
The French street names added to that feeling of a foreign country, though, and the fun of exploring on foot.
Bundled up in fleece and goose-down jackets, my friends and I made it out of the heated hotel lobby only for a block before running back for umbrellas.
Soon, the paved streets turned into cobblestone as we entered Old Montreal, the most antiquated part of the city with buildings dating to the 17th century and the area did feel like a European town.
We walked into a quaint cafe with a selection of fine meat and cheese panini sandwiches, deeply fragrant coffee and delicate pastries. The portions were small but rich in flavor, and house-made.
Then we made our way to perhaps the biggest tourist attraction in Montreal, the Notre-Dame Basilica that resembles the one in Paris. We took as many pictures of the outside of the gray, Gothic revival-style church as we did of its grand interior. The sanctuary is a polychrome of blues, gold, reds, purples and silver, with hundreds of intricate wood carvings and stained-glass windows.
After spending an hour admiring the churchs beauty, we wandered through Rue Saint-Paul to Hotel de Ville, the Old Montreal City Hall. We reached it just in time the drizzle turned into heavy rain. Much of the building was closed for the weekend, but we could still marvel at the abundance of marble and bronze.
Within half an hour, it began to snow lightly, but in no time at all, the sun was shining and we reached the historic Old Port of Montreal, which stretches along the St. Lawrence River and was used by French fur traders in the early 1600s.
No longer Montreals center for commerce, the Old Port has been redeveloped with riverfront attractions, including the Montreal Clock Tower, the Montreal Science Museum and an urban beach. Across a strip of river, a row of trees had turned a yellow- and orange-red unlike any colors found in Southern California. We spent some time breathing in the natural beauty.
The Metro train dropped us off near our hotel, where we stopped to warm up and rest up a bit for the night.
Montreal nightlife threw us off a bit too.
We didnt know where to go, so we decided to try bar-hopping on Boulevard Saint-Laurent, a trendy commercial corridor rich in cultural heritage reflected in the distinct buildings.
As we waited in a line outside one establishment, we wondered if we had come on high school seniors or college night, as the crowd looked younger than usual, and we were carded at the door. Inside felt like a cross between a casual winter formal night and a university students party. We didnt stay long.
The next place we hopped to looked like it had a similar crowd, so we called it a night.
It wasnt until we Googled Montreal drinking age that we found out it was set at age 18 in 1872. In the rest of Canada, its age 19. That is great for locals; an unpleasant surprise, should I say, for some American visitors.
There was plenty left to explore during the day.
Chinatown in Montreal was a short walk from our hotel. It was easy to spot, with a Chinese archway and guardian lions at the foot. The small neighborhood had affordable dim sum items just like in the states.
A short bus ride brought us to the Mile End neighborhood, part of which began as a bourgeois suburb until it became Montreals principal Jewish area through the 1950s. It was the hometown hangout of Mordecai Richler and William Shatner, among others.
Nowadays, it draws parallels with Brooklyn for its architecture red brick buildings and bagels. From a block away, we could see a line out the door of the original Fairmount Bagel on Avenue Fairmount West. The bagels were definitely comparable to those in Brooklyn or better, they would say. Samples of the famous sesame-seed bagel only made us crave more.
We strolled through the storefront-lined streets, including Arcade Fire, which has been ranked as one of the most hip neighborhoods in the world. I could see why its home to artists, writers, filmmakers and musicians.
Even the fire station at Boulevard Saint-Laurent and Avenue Laurier was nonconformist. Its housed in a castle-like structure with bright green domes and roofs.
Back downtown, we strolled along Rue Sainte-Catherine, the main commercial artery, with big-box stores and eateries. It runs parallel to the largest sections of Montreals Underground City, a series of interconnected shopping centers, restaurants and office towers sheltered from the cold.
On recommendations, we stopped to eat at one of the Dunns Famous Restaurant locations, known for smoked meats as well as poutine topped with pastrami. The divey atmosphere and comfort food hit the spot.
My friends decided to head back to the hotel by the late afternoon. But there was still much I wanted to see, so I headed to Mont Royal because locals told me it wasnt too long a hike and I could make it by dusk.
The mountain was more like a large hill, with walking paths and hiking trails that took me through trees changing colors, a display of flowers, serene beds of water and finally to a lookout with a spectacular, panoramic view of the entire city.
It wasnt until the temperature dropped even more and the sunlight faded from the skyscrapers, their lights illuminating the night, that I really starting making sense of Montreal.
Its like having Paris, Brooklyn, a charming waterfront and a conquerable mountain all within walking distance.
Its a place where you can get some of the best qualities of Europe and America, not too far from home.
Contact the writer: 714-796-7762 or jkwong@scng.com or on Twitter: @JessicaGKwong
PARIS No bells tolled. No fists were raised. No sirens blared.
Instead, a penetrating silence enveloped Paris on Sunday morning as thousands of people across the city massed under a leaden sky for the anniversary of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Frances postwar history, a year to the day after they shook the nation.
In somber ceremonies at the Stade de France, the Bataclan concert hall and cafes where Islamic State militants unleashed synchronized assaults, massacring 130 and leaving hundreds wounded, President Francois Hollande stood amid heavy security before survivors, victims families, medics and throngs of the grieving to unveil marble plaques memorializing those whose lives ended abruptly last Nov. 13.
Hollande, too, remained silent, arriving at each site without making a speech and quietly lifting the blue, white and red French flag, the Tricolore, from the grim tableaus to reveal the names of the dead, which were then read off by an announcer one by one.
This is a coming together for remembering but also to forgive, said Mark Colclough, a psychotherapist based in Copenhagen who was near the cafe La Bonne Biere when the terrorists stormed its terrace and machine-gunned five people before continuing their rampage across the city.
The ceremonies unfolded a day after the Bataclan concert hall reopened to the public for the first time since the bloody killings, when three terrorists entered with assault rifles and killed 89 concertgoers at close range. The death toll reached 90 after one of the wounded died.
Headlining the halls reopening was the British musician Sting, who said the concert and the concertgoers had two jobs: to remember those who lost their lives in the attack a year ago and to celebrate the life, music, which this historic concert hall represents.
He ended by saying: We will never forget them.
For others, however, no measure of reconciliation seemed possible. Patrick Jardin, whose daughter, Nathalie, was killed at the Bataclan while attending the concert by Eagles of Death Metal, said the anger would never leave him.
We cannot respond to Kalashnikovs with candles, Jardin said in an interview with Frances Bleu Nord radio. I was told that with time, the pain would fade. But it gets worse every day.
WASHINGTON President-elect Donald Trump appeared to soften some of his hardest-line campaign positions on immigration on Sunday, but he also restated his pledge to roll back abortion rights and used Twitter to lash out at his critics, leaving open the possibility that he would continue using social media in the Oval Office and radically change the way presidents speak to Americans.
In his first prime-time television interview since his upset victory Tuesday, Trump repeated his promise to name a Supreme Court justice who opposed abortion rights and would help overturn the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that recognized them, returning the issue to the states.
Asked where that would leave women seeking abortions, Trump said on the CBS program 60 Minutes, Well, theyll perhaps have to go theyll have to go to another state.
On immigration, he said the wall that he has been promising to build on the nations southern border might end up being a fence in places. But he said his priority was to deport 2 million to 3 million immigrants he characterized as dangerous or as having criminal records, a change from his original position that he would deport all of the estimated 11 million unauthorized immigrants in the country. President Barack Obama has deported more than 2 million unauthorized immigrants during his time in office.
Trump said that unauthorized immigrants who are not criminals are terrific people, and that he would decide how to handle them after the border is secure. The House speaker, Paul Ryan of Wisconsin, echoed the president-elect, saying on Sunday that there would be no deportation force, something Trump had promised to create early in his campaign.
Thats not what were focused on, Ryan said on CNNs State of the Union.
Trump also said he considered the Supreme Court decision last year that validated same-sex marriages as settled, and that he was fine with that. He endorsed popular aspects of President Barack Obamas health insurance law, including a provision that requires coverage of people with pre-existing medical conditions and one that allows young people to remain on their parents plans until the age of 26.
But even as he appeared to inch toward the political center, Trump used a series of postings on Twitter to argue that The New York Times coverage of him has been BAD and very poor and highly inaccurate. He falsely stated that The Times had issued an apology to readers, an apparent reference to a letter to readers from The Times publisher, Arthur Sulzberger Jr., and its executive editor, Dean Baquet. The letter noted the unpredictable nature of the election and said The Times aimed to rededicate itself to the fundamental mission of Times journalism.
In the letter, The Times posed a series of what it called inevitable questions, including, Did Donald Trumps sheer unconventionality lead us and other news outlets to underestimate his support among American voters?
Trump also claimed that the newspaper had been losing thousands of subscribers over its campaign coverage. In a Twitter message in reply to Trump, The New York Times Co. said it had seen a surge in new subscriptions since the election four times the pre-election rate.
His posts on Twitter were a striking public display from a man who, after winning the election, had worked to project an air of seriousness and self-discipline, first in a victory speech early Wednesday and then in an Oval Office meeting the next day with Obama, whom he called a good man for whom he had great respect.
But by Thursday evening, Trump was using Twitter to complain about demonstrations against his victory, saying they were being mounted by professional protesters, incited by the media, and branding them as very unfair!
The social media sniping unparalleled in the history of presidential communication suggested Trump plans to bring his confrontational style of speaking to Americans to the White House, working to undercut news outlets that do not comport with his views, silence his critics and elevate his own standing.
On Sunday, he selected Stephen K. Bannon, the executive chairman of Breitbart News, a site known for its nationalist, racially charged and conspiracy-laden coverage, to be his chief strategist and senior counselor.
It was only one indication of the extraordinary nature of the president-elects tactics and those of his inner circle.
In the 60 Minutes interview, Trump suggested he would not hold to the long-standing post-Watergate tradition of presidents refraining from interfering in FBI criminal matters, hinting that he would quiz the director, James B. Comey, about his handling of the investigation into Hillary Clintons private email server before deciding whether to dismiss him.
Im not sure, Trump said when asked if he would seek Comeys resignation. I would have to see he may have had very good reasons for doing what he did.
In an interview on Friday with The Wall Street Journal, Trump did not rule out prosecuting Clinton.
On Sunday, his campaign manager, Kellyanne Conway, warned that Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nev., the minority leader, could face legal action for having said that Trumps election had emboldened the forces of hate and bigotry in America.
Asked on 60 Minutes about acts of violence that have been committed in his name, Trump said: I am so saddened to hear that. And I say, Stop it.
Trump has said he is proud of how he has used social media to create his own version of events and communicate it to his followers. He suggested in the 60 Minutes interview that he is reluctant to surrender that platform when he takes the oath of office in January.
Im not saying I love it, but it does get the word out, Trump said of Twitter during the interview, adding that his millions of followers on various social media sites had given him such power that it helped him win the election.
When you give me a bad story, or when you give me an inaccurate story, Trump added, I have a method of fighting back. He said, however, that he would be very restrained in his Twitter posts should he continue to make them as president.
Trump is a highly public scorekeeper of his own accolades and accomplishments, and his elevation to the highest office in the land has not changed his instinct to crow about the smallest details. During the interview, Trump boasted that since his election, he had built up his social media following by tens of thousands of people. Im picking up now I think I picked up yesterday 100,000 people, Trump said.
The interview, which also featured Trumps wife, Melania, and adult children, showed a side of the president-elect that he did not display during the campaign a man awed and somewhat intimidated by the significance of the office to which he had just laid claim.
Ive done a lot of big things, Ive never done anything like this, Trump said. It is it is so big, it is so its so enormous, its so amazing.
Trump said he had been inaccurately portrayed as a little bit of a wild man during the campaign, and he promised that he would be able to tamp down some of his more heated speech as president. But he suggested that he would still use such tactics to galvanize his supporters, just as he did during his bid for the White House.
Sometimes you need a certain rhetoric to get people motivated, he said. I dont want to be just a little nice monotone character.
SANTA ANA Chants and shouts echoed through downtown Santa Ana on Sunday night as about 350 people stood united against President-elect Donald Trump.
No shots were fired, no punches thrown Sunday as the protest started and ended peacefully, under the watch of the Santa Ana Police Department, whose presence extended to cars and mounted police escorting protesters.
Sundays protest started at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana, then marched through the streets near the Civic Center and down Fourth Street as hundreds chanted and waved signs expressing disapproval of Trump.
Loreta Sierra, 20, of Santa Ana was one of the protests organizers. Sierra said that change is easier to enact when you can join hands with others who feel the same as you do and that the dehumanizing rhetoric of the election has made standing together all the more important.
I personally think that when its just one person, some people might feel I have even felt Where do we go from here? Im just one person, I cant do anything, Sierra said. But when you see lots of people being determined and having the same goals in mind, its a lot easier to feel empowered.
Though the crowd was adamantly against Trump, with signs reading You cant combover bigotry, Dump Trump now and No rapists in the White House, protest leader Josh Brennecke, 25, of Tustin said the aim isnt to oust Trump, but to send a message that bigotry wont be tolerated.
Theres a lot of protests saying to impeach Trump. Hes president; thats a fact. What were saying is that if he goes after LGBTQ, if he goes after black or Muslim lives, trans or female lives, were going to make a stand, Bennecke said. We do not tolerate that. Its not about impeaching him. The system is flawed, and what were doing is voicing our opinions and saying, No, we dont want this. Were not saying impeach Trump, were saying we dont agree with his supporters and ideas he has supported.
Brennecke led the protest for hours as people stepped forward to speak. Members of various races and the LGBTQ community made their voices heard, warning Trump and his supporters that love trumps hate.
As the protest wound to a close, there was chatter among those participating about how smoothly it went.
Protester Chris Johnson, 29 of Santa Ana said peaceful protests like Sundays are good for keeping people engaged.
Theres a system of complacency in our nation. We like to get riled up every four years and vote for one major political choice, and then fade back into obscurity and all the issues fade away. Its important that we keep coming out, Johnson said. From what I see, the world is broken right now, and things like this help bring it together.
Contact the writer: jwinslow@scng.com
SANTA ANA After the Nov. 8 election, in which a candidate who moved into a new ward so that he could run for Santa Ana City Council in that ward and then won the seat, Councilman Sal Tinajero said he plans to propose that the city move from at-large to by-district voting.
Tinajero said that during todays council meeting, he will direct City Manager David Cavazos to bring back a report looking into elections in which only residents within a ward can vote for candidates for that ward.
Under Santa Anas at-large voting system, residents across the city vote for candidates in all six wards, though candidates must live in a ward to be able to run for a seat in that ward.
Tinajero said several residents approached him after the election, feeling disenfranchised that Jose Solorio who moved from Ward 1 to Ward 3, which had no incumbent in the race earned the seat on the council.
They said, Sal, it is unfortunate and unfair that all youre asking of council members is to live in that ward, Tinajero said. They told him, Though he is credible, he is not from our neighborhood and doesnt understand what our neighborhood needs are.
Solorio, who lived in Ward 1 with his family for years, said shortly after announcing his candidacy in July that he has lived in Santa Ana for 20 years and that I actually lived in Ward 3 earlier, so this is like officially moving back to Ward 3.
Solorio had the strongest name recognition in the Ward 3 race among six other candidates because he previously served on the City Council and is a former Assemblyman.
He has been fined $3,500 by the state Fair Political Practices Commission for using campaign funds to pay some rent for the apartment he leased in Ward 3. He filed to reimburse his campaign for five days after another Ward 3 candidate filed a complaint with the watchdog agency.
Tinajero said by-district or by-ward elections in Santa Anas case would ensure candidates are selected by neighbors who have known them for some time.
Contact the writer: 714-796-7762 or jkwong@ocregister.com or on Twitter: @JessicaGKwong
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
By Khalid Kazimov Trend:
A recent report by Tehran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture has suggested that Iran exported inexpensive commodities and imported expensive goods over the first seven months of the current Iranian year (started March 20), an indication of the countrys low capability in producing value-added products.
The report says that crude and oil products form a large part of the exported commodities.
The governments earlier issued statistics said the volume of exports of non-oil products in the mentioned period increased by 4.3 percent year-on-year.
However, the report by Tehran Chamber of Commerce has revealed that the volume of non-oil exports has dropped by 1.3 percent.
The reason behind the difference in statistics provided by the government and Tehran Chamber of Commerce is the governments decision to consider oil based commodities, such as gas condensates as non-oil products.
Iran exported $63 billion worth of products in 2015. According to Tehran Chamber of Commerce, oil and oil products formed 43 percent of the countrys exports in 2015.
In the meantime, Iran exported $5.4 billion worth of food products, $2.5 billion worth of iron and steel products, $114 million worth of medicines and $872 million worth of textiles and garment.
Ejiao, or donkey skin gelatin, is considered one of the three treasures of traditional Chinese medicine. It is used to treat a wide range of ailments from simple colds to insomnia and impotence, and demand in the Chinese market is soaring like never before. Millions of donkeys are slaughtered all around the world and their hides transported to China to be melted into the miracle gelatin that many believe will keep them looking youthful and even prolong their life.
Donge county, in northern China, is the epicenter of ejiao production. Here, over 100 factories melt thousands of donkey hides into gelatin, every week, and after running out of domestic stock, they are now relying on imports from developing countries to sustain the huge demand. Chinas donkey population has dwindled from 11 million during the 1990s to just 6 million today, due to both industrialization and massive slaughtering for ejiao. With local stock of donkeys going dry at an alarming rate, some factories have opened their own farms to breed and kill up to 10,000 donkeys a year, but with some of them processing over 1 million donkey hides in the same period, its hardly a sustainable plan. Which is why many factories have turned their attention to the foreign market.
Various countries in Africa, Asia, South America and the Middle East are supplying millions of donkey skins for the Chinese ejiao market. With the price for donkeys having skyrocketed from around $65 a decade ago to $315 today, some livestock breeders are switching to donkeys exclusively, because the trade is so profitable. But some governments have already banned China from buying their donkeys because they realized that it would eventually decimate the animal population. In September, Nigeria announced a ban on the export of donkeys in September, after the trade increased three times in one year, mainly to Asian markets. If the export continues the animals will be decimated, Atte Issa, a Nigerian government official told the BBC.
Photo: Deadkid dk/Wikimedia Commons
Burkina Faso also stopped donkey exports after 45,000 of its donkeys were slaughtered in six months from a total population of 1.4 million. Mike Baker, chief executive of the Devon-based Donkey Sanctuary, in England, claims that despite the ban, 65,000 donkeys are still slaughtered illegally in the African country. Other countries, like Kenya and South Africa are scaling up their donkey breeding facilities to meet Chinese demand, and Asian factories are already negotiating to breed and kill donkeys in Australia. And theres also a growing black market providing a steady supply of donkey hides to Chinese ejiao factories.
But what is it about donkey gelatin that has some Chinese spending over $250 a month for it? The history of this famous traditional Chinese medicine goes back roughly 2,000 years. It used to be offered exclusively to Imperial Chinas royal families, to improve their health, and was later famously used by Chairman Mao and the Communist elite. Today, the countrys millionaires and even members of the burgeoning middle-class are hungry for this mythical cure that once only available to the pinnacle of Chinese society. The Daily Mail attributes the insane popularity of ejiao to a potent mix of snobbery, superstition and state propaganda.
Photo: Aliexpress
Even though there is absolutely no medical evidence to support the health-boosting effectiveness of ejiao, millions of Chinese are convinced it is a miracle cure. When a man takes ejiao, he will be strong and virile and have a long life. When a woman takes ejiao, she will keep her youth and become as beautiful as a princess, one ejiao seller told Daily Mail reporters.
Others think ejiao boosts stamina. If you sell ejiao to farmers in the countryside, they can work all day without getting tired, a donkey gelatin factory official said. We give two boxes a month to each of our workers and it makes them work faster all day long.
Photo: Alibaba
Zhang Tengzhi, the head of a ejiao factory in Donge, claims the gelatin also prevents illnesses. If you take one of these every day, you will never get a cold, he said about ejiao-infused cereal bars that his company produces. We give it to our workers every day and they are always full of energy and never get ill.
This unfounded belief in the wondrous properties of ejiao is having disastrous effects on the donkey population worldwide. There are so few donkeys left in China that breeders in the eastern province of Shandong are using implanted identification chips to protect their animals. But thats not an option in poorer countries, especially in Africa, where small farmers often report their animals stolen only to find them skinned, miles away in the middle of the wilderness. It is a massive business. The slaughter of donkeys is having the same effect on their population in rural African communities as the poaching of rhino horn on rhinos, said Nadia Saunderson, outreach officer for the Highveld Horse Care Unit near Johannesburg.
Ironically, even ejiao producers are concerned about the dwindling donkey population. The boss of an ejiao factory in Donge, who boasts of having sold $175 million worth of donkey gelatin last year told the Daily Mail that our only concern is that one day soon there wont be any more donkeys left to kill. It might sound like an exaggeration, but if the trend continues, it might turn into a dire reality sooner than we can imagine.
Just to put into perspective how in-demand ejiao is these days in China, due to the sort supply, some factories have begun producing it using the skins from mules, horses, pigs and oxen. In some extreme cases, some counterfeiters have even boiled leather shoes to obtain products similar to genuine donkey gelatin.
Sources: Daily Mail, BBC, CNN
A former math teacher from Camden Town, England, claims betting shops wont take his bets anymore after he devised a system that guarantees he wins every time without any risk of loss.
Richard Saul, who calls himself the wizard of odds, claims that he has bet tens of thousands of pounds on horse races over the last three years, but in the last few weeks, all but one bookmakers in Camden Town have stopped taking his bets. They should take the bet, but they dont because I keep winning. I dont think your average punter would be able to work out how to do it. In Camden Town, only Jennings will take my bet now and they will only let me do it once, thats all, Saul complains. [Elsewhere] the staff go on the phone, then after two minutes they come back and say, we cant take this bet. Ive gone on accounts online, but they wont take it there either.
The math expert believes that his recent ban by bookmakers has to do with his guaranteed-win system. He came up with it when betting shops started introducing higher payouts for each-way horse racing bets. Usually, an each-way bet means that the fourth-placed horse pays a quarter of the horses odds of winning, but some high street bookies expanded the offer to include a fifth-place horse, in order to attract punters. Thats when Saul figured out that by betting on every horse with different stakes, he could guarantee himself a win.
Photo: Slooby/Wikimedia Commons
It takes me about 20 minutes to set up the bet, and you have to concentrate because the odds are changing. You cannot lose but if the favourite wins you wont win very much. The most I won was 600 from a 4,000 stake, he told the Camden New Journal.
Paddy Power, one of the biggest bookmakers in the UK, has admitted to banning Richard Saul from their betting shops. Mathematically we know we might lose money with this special, but that should be spread out among all of our punters who are taking a punt and happen to back a horse that finishes in the money, not just to professional punters who box off every possibility, the company said in a statement. Fair play to him for putting in the time and effort to play the system but hes too good for us. Were running scared.
It is understood that betting shops around Camden Town are aware of Saul and his system, and due to his impressively long win streak, theyve decided to ban him.
The New Journal reports that this policy of completely banning or limiting stake sizes for punters who win too much is well known among regular gamblers, and considered controversial in the betting industry. Thats because bookmakers have no problem accepting bets from people who do not win too often.
Jack O'Dwyer
Ferocious, unfair media attacks on Donald Trump coupled with wrongful estimates of Hillary Clintons appeal to voters undermined her quest to be the first woman president. Many women thought there was no need to vote!
Obama won 55% of womens votes in 2012 while Clinton won 54% in 2016 even though the stakes in 2016 were incredibly high--electing the first woman president.
Lulling women into a false sense of security was The New York Times, which as late as Tuesday, Nov. 8, before the voting began, said there was an 84% chance that Clinton would win. Other pollsters said the same.
This was after FBI director James Comey suddenly revived charges that Clinton had compromised national security by sloppy handling of government emails. The doubts raised by Comey were groundless, baseless, proven to be [and] stopped our momentum, said Clinton.
NYT demonized Trump from start to finish, wrote New York Post columnist Michael Goodwin Nov. 12, perhaps inspiring a backlash. NYT then made an extraordinary appeal to readers to stand by the paper, said Goodwin.
Sulzberger
Publisher Arthur Sulzberger Jr.s letter, said Goodwin, was part apology and part defense of its campaign coverage accompanied by a rededication to the fundamental mission of Times journalismto report America and the world honestly.
The half-baked apology, noting other media were also duped, was as follows: After such an erratic and unpredictable election there are inevitable questions: Did Trumps sheer unconventionality lead us and other news outlets to underestimate his support among American voters?
NYT suddenly hides behind other news outlets. Oh, we were all duped. Its not NYTs fault.
Virtually every so-called news article (in NYT) reflected a clear bias against Trump in favor of Clinton, wrote Goodwin. Stories, photos, headlines placement in the paperall the tools were used to pick a president and the facts be damned.
NYT Should Go Into Editorial Receivership
The family-dominated NYT, now in the fifth generation of Sulzbergers, is beginning to recall the Hapsburgs, whose inbreeding resulted in physical and mental abnormalities. The front page NYT Oct. 19 story notes that one of new deputy editor A.G. Sulzbergers problems is that a downsizing of the newsroom looms early next year, stirring anxiety among reporters. NYT last year unloaded 100 or so reporters.
Goodwins advice is that the paper enlarge its thinking about diversity to include journalists who disagree with the Times embedded liberal slant.
That would be putting a Band-Aid on a gaping, life-threatening wound. NYT needs a new corporate board that will include not only middle and right-wing journalists but leaders of the Family Research Council and similar groups, union leaders, religious leaders, minority group leaders, and leaders of gay and lesbian groups. No one from the Sulzberger family nor executive editor Dean Baquet should be on the board. Sulzberger and Baquet spoke at Hunter College June 15, 2015. Press questions were not allowed and only three from the audience.
Baquet
NYTs warped coverage of election issues, including the false claims that Clinton was far ahead in the polls, shows that it has lost its mojo. An entire new blood supply is needed, not just a transfusion.
An illustration is its Nov. 11 story with the six-column headline: Trump Win Seen as a Devastating Loss for Gay and Transgender People.
Quoted in the story that takes up the top half of the page are Jay Brown, spokesman for the Human Rights Campaign, the largest gay rights organization with $38 million in 2014 revenues and net assets of $9M (EIN: 52-1243457); Mara Keisling, executive director, National Center for Transgender Equality, and Rea Carey, executive director, National LGBTQ Task Force.
The 2016 GOP platform is called the most anti-LGBT platform in recent memory. Michael Pence, Trumps running mate, who has been named head of the transition team, is one of the most ant-LGBT politicians out there, says Brown. As governor of Indiana, Pence opposed gay marriage and signed a law making it legal for businesses to refuse service to gay and transgender people.
No Coverage of Family Values Supporters
While gay rights groups are quoted saying things such as, All across America right now there are millions of people who are terrified, a remark by Keisling, there is no story in NYT quoting groups and people who support traditional marriage and who were triumphant at Trumps election.
Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, a Washington, D.C.-based group with $13M in revenues (EIN: 52-1792772), said Trumps election shows that the majority of Americans do not recognize same-sex marriage.
If the liberal press had bothered to listen to what voters believeinstead of telling them what to believe, this election would not have been nearly as shocking, he said.
Because theres one overwhelming message everyone should have heard on Tuesday. Its this: the media, the courts, and the Left dont speak for the American people.
Perkins
Perkins, who served on the RNC Platform Committee, said nearly six in ten Trump voters were swayed by the pro-life, pro-religious liberty planks in the platform.
Wilson Perkins Allen Opinion Research found that a year and a half after the Supreme Court decision legalizing marriage between people of the same sex, 53% agreed that marriage should be between one man and one woman, he said. Disagreeing were 37% while 10% had no opinion. The Perkins in the firm is Chris Perkins who is unrelated to Tony Perkins.
NYT Mystified by Hasidic Support of Trump
On the bottom half of the NYT page giving vent to expressions of disappointment by LGBT supporters is a story about the Hasidic community in Borough Park giving Trump 69% of the vote while New York City and New York State went overwhelming for Clinton. New Yorks 29 electoral votes went to Clinton who received 4.1 million votes or 58.8%.
The obvious answer, skipped by NYT, is that family values are a supreme component of the beliefs of Hasidic and other orthodox sects in Borough Park including the Bobover, Belz, Satmar, Ger and Viznitz.
Public Broadcasting Service, in a film called A Life Apart, said Hasidism stresses what have become known as family values, for example raising large families, with lasting marriages. Other sites, quoting Hasidim, say members of the gay community are urged to suppress such tendencies.
Supporters of family values got no ink in NYTs election coverage.
Zelden Defeated Throne-Holst on L.I.
Another election we watched was Suffolk Rep. Lee Zeldin battling challenger Anna Throne-Holst, former supervisor of Southampton.
Zeldin, the only Jewish GOP member of the House of Representatives, defeated Throne-Holst by a large margin59% to 41% in garnering 174,682 votes to her 121,682.
We were rooting for Zeldin, posting this comment on the Suffolk Times website:
As a resident of Westhampton Beach, I was disappointed that Throne-Holst caved to the East End Eruv Assn. by passing a measure in the last few seconds of the Aug. 25, 2015 board meeting without any public comment or prior notice. That was despicable and grounds enough for her defeat, in my book.
That ended a five-year battle with the EEEA against erection of an eruv Jewish religious boundary. SH lost the sign issue but is now abandoning its argument that eruvim violate the Constitutional ban against church/state entanglement.
The SH board voted not to appeal the June 30 decision by State Supreme Court Justice Joseph Franeti who ruled that since the lechi markers proposed for SH utility poles are virtually invisible, they are not signs and are thus not violations of SHs sign laws. Ironically, the judge's decision made the eruv more visible than ever, a triumph of illogic over logic. Also, eruvim are highly visible on Synagogue websites.
Scott Widmeyer
Three years ago my firm, Widmeyer Communications, was acquired by Finn Partners , and questions whether the match would work out have finally subsided. For those with ringside seats, primarily employees and clients, they see how weve combined and integrated to form a bigger, better company.
To the outside world, one clear proof of our successful union is that weve retained key clients while adding significant new accounts. Another, no less important, is that weve retained key staff who made Widmeyer a successful, happy company.
In the larger picture, Finn Partners continues to flourish and is one of the countrys top independent firms, with revenue over $80 million. It has doubled in size since acquiring Widmeyer.
After 30-plus years in PR, including 25 as agency owner, I know most deals dont work out this well and that some end up doing more harm than good.
It should surprise no one that the questions I get now are from other buyers and sellers asking, What advice can you offer ...what do know now that you wish youd known earlier?
Lets be clear: there is no magic formula for a successful union, in life or in business. That said, heres what was done right in combining our companies and some of what I learned.
I cant overemphasize the importance of good advice and good advisors. Before I gave thought to any kind of deal, I met Art Stevens at a conference in 2009. Art, erstwhile president of Lobsenz-Stevens and the U.S. arm of Publicis, heads The Stevens Group, a PR M&A firm.
Art engaged me in a dialogue about my companys future. I didnt need Art to tell me that continuity planning was a requirement of good leadership, but it didnt hurt to have him remind me, then approaching 60, to be thinking about my firms long term future.
The financial implications alone were significant we were an $11 million firm but there was more at stake than dollars. I wanted the best future for my staff. I still do.
Art Stevens
Art and I had a dialogue that continued over more than two years, during which time he helped me define what I wanted for the firms future and what kind of company might make a good suitor. I also discreetly sought advice from many friends gained over my career.
What came out of my conversations was the realization that combining with the right company was something I should consider. However, I wasnt going to pressure myself to make a deal, and Art knew we didnt want Widmeyer shopped around.
Another lesson I learned was not to start taking meetings if I wasnt serious about selling. Its not the buyers role to convince a seller to sell.
From the time of my first discussions with Art until my sale closed was nearly four years, which brings up an important element of making a good match: time.
Theres rarely a reason to rush a deal. We dont try and move too quickly in these situations, Peter Finn, CEO of Finn Partners, said recently. These are big decisions requiring major commitments. Lets date a while before marriage.
Realize that getting to a deal will take six months or more. Use the time for due diligence and to ensure you are making a happy union which brings us to the next major consideration: culture and chemistry.
Widmeyer worked hard to build a diverse, inclusive culture and in 2012 won the PR Council and PR Week Diversity Distinction in PR Award. It meant a lot to us, and if my firm were to be acquired, I needed a suitor with similar values and vision.
Art attended that award ceremony, where I also ran into Peter Finn; Finn Partners was also vying for an award. Shortly afterward, unknown to me at the time, Art contacted Peter and without divulging names, probed him on Finn Partners interest in acquiring a D.C. firm. There were synergies Art knew would appeal to Finn, and Art also foresaw a cultural fit.
It was clear from our first meeting that Widmeyer and Finn could be a good match. The chemistry clicked for Peter and me, as did our vision for our firms future. We saw the value that each others business brought to a combined company.
Our first date was a good one, and thus began a period of shuttle diplomacy for Art in bringing us to terms. Again, I cant overstate the importance of patience and good advice. Just because we decided to move ahead doesnt mean it was smooth sailing the whole way.
One rule Ive learned in acquisitions is to keep the principals from direct negotiation, Art said afterward. Having emissaries handle talks avoids erosion of the mutual respect that initially brought parties together. Ive seen deals implode when principals decided to work out terms themselves, he said.
It took about six months from when Peter and I first sat down until we closed our deal. Afterward, we had the normal hiccups, mostly over billing systems and technology. Both our firms made changes or adapted in some way. Our employees saw that Peter and I were transparent in dealing with problems, respectful of each others opinions and readily open to change. That attitude filters down.
Whats the one most surprising revelation? Probably that when one becomes successful, as many firm owners do, its easy to forget theres also a great future for yourself and your company when teamed with the right enterprise. Theres much to be gained from giving up complete control.
***
Scott Widmeyer founded Widmeyer Communications where he served as chairman and CEO, prior to becoming founding managing partner at Finn Partners in 2013.
As I said in an earlier article, when building a daily driver for an avid off-roader, who also happens to be a high school student in Southern California, one has to consider Californias more stringent vehicle regulations. For instance, all tire treads have to be covered by the vehicles fenders to reduce the likelihood of road debris being thrown up by the tires. A set of Rugged Ridge extended fender flares takes care of these requirements for the SoCal Cherokee. You should check the regulations for the state in which you reside, as these same requirements may pertain to you.
Even though, in my opinion, XJ-model Cherokees are one of the best bangs for your bucks Jeeps that are available today; in other words, you get more for your dollar if you buy one of these fine SUVs. You have to be careful, though, because new parts for them are being dropped from catalogs because of their age, not because of their popularity. Rugged Ridge, Omix-ADA, and a few others are still maintaining a good selection of aftermarket parts for them.
My younger son, Chad, and I are slowly building a 1990 Cherokee Laredo for his son, Cash, to be a daily driver (to and from school and work) and an off-road weekend warrior for camping trips to the trails of SoCal and Arizona. Weve already lifted the Cherokee and gave it a set of Rubicon wheels and Yokohama Geolandar A/T tires, replaced its injectors, protected it with steel bumpers, and now were making it safe for the highways of SoCal with wider fender flares.
The fender flares feature a stylish design while also protecting the vehicles paint from flying rocks and mud. The fender flares are constructed from durable, UV-treated ABS with a slight texture. The Rugged Ridge all-terrain fender flares are paintablealthough we left them as isand provide a great look, while being able to handle whatever the trail may throw at them. They are designed to fit factory mounting points with durable, rustproof stainless fasteners.
Before beginning the install verify that all parts are in the package and read the instructions through a few times. Remove any OEM flares or trim from the Cherokees four fenders.
Id also like to thank Kevin Lake and Mike Barnes for all their experience and knowledge in their assistance with this installation.
Source List:
Rugged Ridge
www.ruggedridge.com
Summit Racing
http://www.summitracing.com/
Children across Offaly are being called on to let their imaginations run wild and create a modern masterpiece for Sightsavers Junior Painter Awards as the deadline for this years competition fast approaches.
Mini-Matisses and pint-sized Picassos need to have their entries in by Friday, November 25.
Embracing creativity and education are the core of objectives of the competition which is open to primary school students across Ireland. This years theme Framing the Future is sure to inspire some imaginative entries and judge, Laureate na nOg and illustrator, PJ Lynch, has some great advice for budding artists looking to paint a colourful creation Be expressive, no idea is too crazy because who knows whatll happen in the future, dont be afraid to use plenty of colour, and most importantly, make sure you dont miss the closing date!
Entrants have the chance to win cash prizes for their schools, sponsored by the Irish Times, and memberships and toolboxes full of arts and crafts materials from ReCreate Ireland.
Fifteen regional winners will be selected and will have the opportunity to see their work displayed at a special Awards Day in spring 2017 where three overall national winners will be announced. Every child that enters will receive a Certificate of Participation in recognition of their artistic efforts. The closing date for entry is Friday, November 25. Parents and children can get involved by speaking to their school teacher or by visiting Sightsavers website to request entry forms: www.sightsavers.ie/juniorpainter
Offalys Faith Sadier has won a place in the prestigious final of The Most Beautiful Girl in Ireland.
The 23 year old from Kilcormac has a chance to represent Ireland at the Most Beautiful Girl in the World in Dubai January 2017 and also a chance to be a GOSH Copenhagen Ireland ambassador.
Suzzie O'Deniyi, Director of the Most Beautiful Girl in Ireland, stated, The Most Beautiful Girl in Ireland is a nationwide beauty competition open to all girls between 18 and 30. Our aim is to find that one girl who is beautiful inside and out, who will represent MBGI nationally and internationally with the aim of promoting body confidence and inspiring young girls across Ireland and internationally. MBGI embraces all kind of girls from different walks of life.
We want a girl, that hold their own style, are passionate about what she believe in, girls who are charming, have poise, and personality, she added.
The makeup sponsor is GOSH Copenhagen Ireland. GOSH Copenhagen is a young and innovative cosmetics, GOSH has supplied all makeup used on all our finalists. The lucky winner will also receive one year free of all GOSH cosmetics and will also become a GOSH Ambassador.
The winner of Most Beautiful Girl in Ireland will jet of to Dubai in January and will represent her country at the International Final and compete with more than 40 contestants from around the world. The international Final is a once in a lifetime opportunity and will be a truly amazing experience.
Faith Sadier will compete for the Most Beautiful Girl in Ireland crown on November 25 the Limerick Strand Hotel. Young women from across the country will fight it out for the title.
Fianna Fail TD Barry Cowen says the confirmation that 380,000 will be provided for renewal of towns in Offaly is a positive development, but says further funding will be needed in the months ahead.
Deputy Cowen made the comments after it was confirmed that Clara, Edenderry, Kinnity and Shannonbridge will benefit from the funding allocation.
This is a welcome development. Fianna Fail has been highlighting that we need a robust scheme to help revitalise towns and villages right across Ireland. We have made this a priority in recent months and we are starting to see funding come on steam for town and village renewal works, said Deputy Cowen.
Deputy Cowen stated it must be acknowledged that the funding provided to date is a relatively small sum of money, and will only go so far in helping revitalise Offalys towns and villages. He said this cannot be a once off investment and the Government needed to bring forward a credible programme of funding for the months ahead to ensure renewal works stay on track.
In particular the Government needs to provide funding for housing construction in areas where people are finding it difficult to find suitable accommodation. The funding provided for town and village renewal to date simply does not address the housing crisis. This needs to change and it is something which Fianna Fail will be focusing on in the months ahead, remarked the Offaly TD.
I want to acknowledge the hard work of Offaly County Council and local councillors in securing this investment. I understand contact will be made with the relevant steering groups in the coming days to determine the priorities for future investment.
This is a welcome development, but much more investment will be required in the future. Let no one think that the investment provided to date will solve all of the problems in our towns and villages, concluded Deputy Cowen.
On November 9, knitting enthusiasts rejoiced. Following the phenomenal success of last years Knit for Wishes Kit, Make-A-Wish Ireland continues their popular tradition and the gift with a conscience is back on Irish shelves this Christmas.
All proceeds help to grant more wishes and make lasting family memories for children with life-threatening illnesses.
Available in Kilkenny Shop, Magee of Donegal and online at MakeAWish.ie, the kit comprises of the highest Donegal quality yarn, needles and a pattern developed by Anne Behan of Aine Knitwear the perfect set for both those who are learning to knit for the first time or long-time knitting devotees.
The Knit for Wishes Kit contains everything needed to create a luxurious adult scarf or two equally stunning childrens scarves. Each pack contains 200gms of the best quality Soft Donegal Merino Wool, Basix Birch single pointed needles 30cm-5mm, and an inspired pattern design by renowned Irish Designer Anne Behan of Aine Knitwear.
Irene Timmins, Head of Fundraising for Make-A-Wish said, This Christmas people have an opportunity to purchase a wonderful gift that directly supports Make-A-Wish Ireland, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to the charity.
Commenting on the campaign, Marian OGorman CEO of Kilkenny Group said, Kilkenny Shop is thrilled to partner with Make-A-Wish on their Knit for Wishes campaign. We are stocking their fantastic scarf knitting kits in selected stores throughout the country. These kits are a fantastic gift idea for Christmas, and you would also be supporting a very worthy charity, so I encourage you all to knit together this Christmas for Make-A-Wish.
With the increased interest in wellness activities among adults, knitting offers a relaxing therapy as well as encapsulating the perfect gift for those whose wish is learn the importance of charitable giving and a new craft. From eight to 88, the Knit for Wishes Kit aims to be Irelands most charitable gift this season.
The Knit for Wishes Kit can be purchased at Kilkenny Shop, selected knitting shops nationwide and through the Make-A Wish shop on their website, www.makeawish.ie for 24.95 plus postage.
An Offaly woman who was molested by her brother as a child finally reported the abuse when the Jimmy Saville cases came to light.
Thomas Moran (52) of Daingean, Co Offaly was convicted by a jury last March of 13 counts of indecently assaulting his sister Roisin Moran between January 1981 and June 1984. Ms Moran was aged just eight when the abuse started.
Following that trial at the Central Criminal Court, Moran pleaded guilty to seven charges of indecently assaulting another sister, Dolores McIntyre, between April 1980 and September 1983, when she was aged between 12 and 15 years old.
Both women waived their right to anonymity in court.
Sentencing Moran to three years imprisonment with the final 12 months suspended Justice Robert Eager paid tribute to the 'determination and bravery' of the sisters for reporting the sexual abuse.
The sisters faced 'tremendous upheaval' in their family after coming forward with the abuse, along with guilt at the knowledge that they had each suffered in silence, Justice Eager said today.
Neither sister was aware of the abuse the other had suffered until Ms Moran had a nervous breakdown in 2000 and and told family members what Moran had done to her.
She eventually reported her brother to gardai in 2012 after the Jimmy Saville sex abuse case came to light. The court heard that as a child she had been a big fan of his and had written to him.
The court heard the children were from a family of eight siblings living in Offaly. The abuse started shortly after the death of their father, when Moran assumed the role of the 'man of the house', Mr Justice Eager said. He was aged between 16 and 19 when he abused his little sisters.
Mr Justice Eager noted Moran was a child himself during some of the offending and that he was 'utterly ill-equipped' to take on the role of filling his father's shoes when he died. He accepted Moran was extremely unlikely to re-offend.
The judge said if Moran had not been a juvenile during much of the offending, he would have imposed a lengthier sentence. Moran cried and hugged family members before being returned to custody.
The court heard Moran never came to adverse garda attention over the next 30 years. He is married and worked in construction until he was made redundant in 2010. A number of testimonials were handed up in court, including one from another sister.
Roisin Moran told Moran's trial that her brother first assaulted her when he asked her to bring some sandwiches to him when he was working on the bog. He then ran his hands up her leg and put his finger into her vagina. Similar abuse then took place on the bog between two and three times a week.
On another occasion in a sow shed, he put her hands inside his trousers and forced her to masturbate him as she cried and asked him to stop. Moran told her to stop crying and that it was their 'little secret'. He gave her 50p to keep quiet.
The abuse ended shortly after Ms Moran attended a sex education class in school and realised what he was doing to her was wrong. She told him she would shout if he came near her again.
This court would like to pay tribute to her for her determination and bravery in giving evidence against her brother, Mr Justice Eager said. It took great courage to give evidence against him in the face of his denial.
After Ms Moran revealed the abuse she suffered, her sister Dolores McIntyre came forward with similar allegations. She said she was 'overcome with guilt' to discover that Ms Moran, who is four years younger, had also been abused.
If I had only stopped my brother from abusing me, I could have stopped him, she previously told the court.
The court heard the abuse of Ms McIntyre occurred when Moran took her out fishing. He would put his fingers into her vagina and force her to give him oral sex. Within days of finishing school, Ms McIntyre moved to London to get away from Moran.
The court acknowledges the pain they felt in their years of silence unable to come forward and the distressing situation they faced in disclosing the abuse committed against them by a family member, Mr Justice Eager said.
Tehran, Iran, November 14
By Mehdi Sepahvand Trend:
Irans Ghadir Investment Holding has attracted 1.5 billion euros foreign investment in oil, gas, petrochemicals, minerals, and power plants.
These are the investments that have been finalized, but there are more over which negotiations are being held, the companys CEO Qolamreza Soleimani said, Mehr news agency reported.
Talks are being held over another 1 billion euros investment which will hopefully be added to the existing finalized amount, he said.
Soleimani further explained that the LC for South Aluminum project worth $1.2 billion has been opened. "We hope to reach the desired outcome through a 27-month schedule," he added.
Elsewhere in his remarks, Soleimani said his company is in talks to enter the London exchange market.
On a bright, cloudless day, in the court yard of a school on the outskirts of Bamako, in Mali, groups of women turn dye and white cloth into brightly coloured hopes for the future.
This project has brought me a lot, because, thanks to God, I can do my own work, said Zenaib Walet Amadou. We must have success, be it here or outside Mali.
For Amadou standing in the hot, bright sunshine of Malian summers day, dying cloth is not merely about making money to support her family, it was about regaining her dignity.
In 2014, she and her five children fled her town of Bourem in the Gao region of northern Mali when fighting broke out between rival Tuareg coalition forces. She eventually found her way to Bamako, but work was hard to come by and she soon found that she was reduced to begging and hand outs in order to support her family.
Then came an opportunity to learn dye making and other small business skills, through the NGO Association Femmes Battues, and she jumped at it. The project has helped to retrain her and 106 other internally displaced women from escaping the violence of the conflict taking place in northern Mali.
The income-generating project is funded by the Human Rights and Protection Division (HRPD) of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). The divisions director, Guillaume Ngefa, said that supporting such a project fits perfectly with the divisions work in the country.
Our experience in working with victims is that documenting serious violations of human rights is not enough, he said. You investigate, you report and then you release the report, but what could be the next step?
Since 2012, Mali has been embroiled in conflicts in the North, involving anti-government military coalitions and jihadist forces. This fighting has led to numerous attacks on civilian, military and government personnel and has caused huge instability, including the displacement of thousands from their homes.
MINUSMA HRPD has documented these human rights violations, reporting on a systemic and endemic culture of impunity. The team has documented abuses by all parties to the conflict including summary and extrajudicial executions, arbitrary and illegal arrests and detention, torture, sexual, and gender based violence, and the looting and destruction of property.
But, Ngefa said it wasnt enough to just report on what was happening to people.
These people were victims of serious human rights violations and at the same time exposed to some situations that are not good for their dignity, he said. So we decided to fund an NGO to work with women in particular to create activities that can generate income for them.
This project has provided more than 100 women displaced from fighting in the North of the country with new opportunities and professions. In addition to learning how to dye cloth, some women have also learned how to make dried fruit snacks and juices to sell in markets.
We have seen an improvement in their living conditions, said Fataumata Kane Diallo, the project trainer with Associations Femmes Battues.
Adama Maiga also escaped from Gao in the North, with just her children and the clothes on her back. Since finding work with the project, she said that she can provide for her family once again.
It is important to work because we can earn money, at least what we need by the sweat of our brow, she said. We can eat and support our children. They can go to school, so it is a lot.
For Ngefa, by supporting projects like this, victims of violence learn that human rights can also provide tangible solutions.
We gave hope to the victims so that they know they are not forgotten, he said.
14 November 2016
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Iran is interested in the purchase of a wide range of Russian weapons and Moscow is ready to develop military and technical cooperation with Tehran, Sputnik quoted Zamir Kabulov, the Russian Foreign Ministrys director of the Second Asian Department, as saying.
In October, Iranian Ambassador to Russia Mehdi Sanaei said that Tehran was looking for ways to broaden the scope of defense cooperation with Moscow, even in areas that require coordination with the UN Security Council (UNSC) and need a resolution.
It is true that the Iranians have a wide range of military-purpose products they would like to buy in Russia. Naturally, some of these products tanks and fighter jets are covered by the UNSC sanctions, because there is a moratorium, Kabulov said commenting on Sanaeis statement.
It means that if we sign an agreement on the delivery of such products, we have to request for the UNSC permission in the next five, or rather, the next four years and receive such permission, he added.
Moscow is ready to work with Iran in the area of military and technical cooperation, according to Kabulov.
There are other goods from the sphere of military and technical cooperation that are not subject [to the UNSC sanctions]. There are no problems, but here we should act via the UNSC mechanism, unfortunately," the diplomat said.
Cleveland Vaughn was a people person, but when it came to Nebraska waterfowl, the former federal special agent was all birds. Snow geese. Sandhill cranes. Piping plover. Teal. Ducks. And one beloved magpie.
Somebody has to stand up for those birds, Vaughn, a former special agent with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, once said. Im the person that has to do that. I love the birds.
So Special Agent Vaughn would travel around Nebraska, chasing shotgun blasts on hunting season opening days, counting the catch and otherwise making sure Nebraska hunters followed the rules. Its a job he held for half of a 28-year career with the U.S. Department of the Interior, which began with this distinction: Vaughn said he was the federal agencys first African-American law enforcement officer. When Vaughn left that job to become U.S. marshal for Nebraska, he was the first African-American in that role, too.
This made him a trailblazer, but thats not what family members and friends most recall about Vaughn, who died Nov. 4 of stomach cancer.
He loved people. He loved his church. He loved to help, said Shirley, his wife of nearly 49 years.
He was a great dad, a great husband and a really great role model, said Derek, his son, a Douglas County Court judge.
He was a mentor, said Mark Foxall, Douglas County Corrections director.
He was a public servant whose public service didnt stop, said Don Kleine, Douglas County attorney.
Vaughn, 72, was also this: interesting.
He was born on a farm in Earle, Arkansas, skipped a grade in country school and graduated from high school at age 16. He went to college at what is now known as the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and graduated with a degree in agriculture education. But his heart wasnt in teaching it was in the outdoors. It was the one place where he didnt feel the reach of his Jim Crow South.
I went to a segregated high school, a segregated college, segregated everything, Vaughn wrote in 1989, in an essay published in this newspaper. As a kid, I noticed how we could hunt and fish and nobody ever said anything. In the back of my mind, I thought, Boy, I would like to be a game warden. But there was no opportunity at that time.
But opportunity did come for Vaughn in 1967, when he was accepted into a federal law enforcement training program.
I was the first black, he wrote. At the time, I didnt realize what that meant, that it was a tremendous breakthrough. To me, it was a job. Period.
His assignments: Minneapolis for training. Then Des Moines. Then Sioux City, Iowa. Then Wichita, Kansas. Then, in 1978, Omaha.
I love for my telephone to ring, he wrote in that 1989 essay. I love for people to call with a complaint about somebody hunting out of season, or killing too many birds. ... Some of the best tips we get come from disgruntled wives and girlfriends. Maybe they are getting a divorce or theyve just broken up, and the women will call and say so-and-so shot three elk last year in Colorado and theyre in such-and-such freezer.
Vaughn said the racial imbalance of law enforcement and hunting made his job harder.
The thing that bothers me sometimes is that I cant assimilate. In other words, I cant walk into a bar in some little town and just eavesdrop, he wrote. If there are any hunters in there, Im going to get recognized and a whole bunch of guys will come over and want to talk hunting and fishing.
So he found another approach: He studied the regulations and changes. He prepared. He then endured the long hours in the cold and wet. And fearlessly called people out. In addition to fowl hunters, he was involved in busts including 98 alligators in Sarpy County, the mounted head of an endangered black rhino that popped up in Omaha and a trio of Indiana men who killed 79 ducks 49 too many in Harlan County.
The magpie, however, was an unpopular call. Joe the magpie was a beloved pet of a couple in Red Cloud, Nebraska. A feature story on the talking magpie, who had lived with the couple for 16 years, prompted complaints to Vaughns office. Magpies are protected under a 1916 law. So Joe was forced to go live in a zoo in Grand Island. This resulted in a huge outcry. A public petition and entreaties from two U.S. senators returned Joe to Red Cloud.
At the time, Vaughn said he had never had so many phone calls about an issue.
Recalling the incident, his wife said this: There was a little bit of truth and a lot of fiction in that story. We laughed about that.
Given the nature of her husbands job staking out armed men in the Nebraska wilderness did she worry?
Initially, she said, but I had to come to grips with that. I prayed God would protect him.
Besides, Shirley Vaughn said, her husband was happy doing it.
I couldnt stand in the way of something he loved so much, she said, adding that Cleveland didnt have many problems in Nebraska or Iowa.
A lot of those farmers are very nice people, she said.
Derek Vaughn said his father stood his ground but always made a point to listen. He said it was important to let people have their say.
Cleveland Vaughn was active in his church, Zion Baptist, serving as a trustee. He taught people, old and young, how to fish. He was so warm and personable that when Foxall, the corrections director, met him for the first time, he felt like The Marshal had known him his whole life.
Vaughn was appointed to the U.S. marshal position by President Bill Clinton in 1993. He stepped down in 1995.
Vaughn was diagnosed with stomach cancer about four months ago and died at Josie Harper Hospice House in Omaha.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Zion Baptist Church, 2215 Grant St.
He and Shirley would have celebrated a 49th wedding anniversary next month. She said he still had so much to do that hed told her hed have to live to 100 to do it all.
He was preceded in death by two sisters. In addition to his wife and son, Vaughn is survived by daughters Monica Watson and Janae Vaughn of Omaha; and brothers Roy Vaughn of Memphis, Tennessee, Ellis Vaughn of Kansas City, Missouri, and Wesley Vaughn of Earle, Arkansas.
David Burdge didnt see a stand-up comedy show that spoke to him, so he created his own.
Since kicking off this summer, Burdge has hosted a stand-up night the third Saturday of every month at The Backline, a comedy theater near 16th and Harney Streets.
Im kind of in a niche, being a gay comedian, Burdge said. We kind of have our own way of doing things. Ive got both perspectives of what the comedy scene is like as well as the gay bar scene, so I thought I could intertwine the two.
Burdge works tech support during the day, but hes been doing stand-up for about two years.
Burdge joked that his office job is mind-numbing, and he didnt want his days spent in his windowless workplace to be all he did.
I thought I was the funny person in my group of friends, he said.
He started by doing improv at The Backline, and he eventually built up confidence to stand alone onstage and perform stand-up.
Its been a great couple of years, he said.
Burdge grew up on Staten Island, New York, but his parents decided to move closer to family in Iowa. They ended up in Coin in southwest Iowa. His high school graduating class consisted of 12 people.
Eventually he moved to Omaha, where he feels more comfortable.
Its been great to be OK with who I am, he said.
Burdge started his show as all-LGBT comedy, but he wanted to open it up to more comedians. Its a regular, if a little edgy, comedy show its not all focused on being gay.
I dont want it to be my crutch, he said.
Burdge usually kicks things off with a crowd participation game. Last time, he quizzed the audience with Boy Band or Condom Brand?
His monthly show has been gaining steam, and hes excited to keep up its momentum.
It makes me feel so great that there are so many people I do comedy with that are so understanding of me and my comedy, he said. Its pretty exciting.
* * * * *
Comedy show
When: 10 p.m. Saturday
Where: The Backline, 1618 Harney St.
Tickets: $5 at the door
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
Trend:
Foreign ministers of the EU member countries urge Iran to exert influence on the Syrian authorities in order to halt the shelling of civilians, said the EU Council on Foreign Relations in a statement.
"The Council calls on Iran to use its influence on the Syrian regime to stop violence against civilian population and humanitarian personnel, as well as the civilian and humanitarian infrastructure, RIA Novosti reported citing the foreign ministers.
The Council also urged Iran to help ensure free humanitarian access throughout the country and to constructively engage in the political negotiation process.
The EU foreign ministers added that Iran should fully contribute to the creation of a foundation necessary for reactivation of the political process in Syria under the auspices of the UN.
Syria has been suffering from an armed conflict since March 2011, which, according to the UN, has so far claimed over 500,000 lives.
Militants from various armed groups are confronting the Syrian government troops. The IS, YPG and PYD are the most active terrorist groups in Syria.
Q. I have way more student loan debt than I can handle, and its all I can think about. Are there options for canceling my debt?
A. Not knowing how to deal with your debt is painful and understandable. But theres hope.
You might already know that loan forgiveness is available to public-sector workers and to those who choose an income-driven repayment plan. You may not know that you can get your loans canceled if your school closed while you were enrolled, it committed fraud, or youre totally and permanently disabled.
We focus here on federal student loan forgiveness programs because private student loans generally have less flexible repayment options. Your best bet is to contact your lender directly if youre having trouble making your payments. Also, except in the case of Public Service Loan Forgiveness and in some specific circumstances, you may be taxed on the amount forgiven.
Explore the options below and check out studentaid.ed.gov for more details.
Closed school discharge
If your college closes while youre enrolled or within 120 days after you leave a program without getting a degree you can receive a closed school loan discharge, meaning the loans you took out to attend that school will be canceled. Recent closings of for-profit colleges including Corinthian Colleges, ITT Technical Institute and Marinello Schools of Beauty have put this option into the spotlight, said Debbie Cochrane, vice president of the Institute for College Access & Success.
The U.S. Department of Education recently announced automatic loan discharges for borrowers who were enrolled in a school that closed on or after Nov. 1, 2013, and who didnt re-enroll elsewhere within three years. If your school closed before that period you can apply for a discharge through your loan servicer. But youre not eligible if you transferred your credits to a comparable program, Cochrane said, so make sure you meet the specific requirements before applying.
Borrower defense to repayment
A growing area of loan cancellation is called borrower defense to repayment, a provision of federal law that allows students to seek debt relief because their school committed fraud or misrepresented itself.
On Oct. 28 the Education Department released final regulations to streamline the process for submitting a borrower defense to repayment claim. Additionally, the department now has the ability to discharge groups of borrowers loans without an application when theres evidence of a schools sweeping misrepresentation.
If you think your school might have defrauded you, submit a claim to fsaoperations@ed.gov along with the required accompanying documentation, available at studentaid.ed.gov. Online applications also are available for certain former students, said Jennifer Wang, director of the Washington, D.C., office of the Institute for College Access & Success. You can work with a lawyer or a nonprofit legal assistance organization to submit your claim.
Total and permanent disability discharge
You also can have your remaining debt canceled if you have a total and permanent physical or mental disability and youre unable to be gainfully employed. You must show documentation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Social Security Administration or a doctor.
Its something that not that many people apply for, even if they qualify, said Jay S. Fleischman, a student loan lawyer.
After the government discharges your loans it will monitor your finances and disability for three years. If you take out new student loans, earn more than a certain amount of money or no longer meet the Social Security Administrations disability guidelines you must resume your loan payments.
Income-driven repayment plans
Income-driven repayment is available to all federal student loan borrowers. It will slash your federal loan payments to a percentage of your earnings, and if you have no income, youll pay no money and still keep your loans in good standing. Youll also get your remaining balance forgiven after 20 or 25 years of payments, but it will be taxed as income. Apply for the program on studentloans.gov.
Job-based forgiveness programs
Public-sector workers can get federal loan forgiveness after 10 years of eligible employment. The main program, known as Public Service Loan Forgiveness, is available to full-time nonprofit and government workers with federal direct loans. The amount forgiven wont be taxed.
Maybe it was because he would have to go along with being called intellectually disabled in scientific terms dumb in slang terms.
Maybe it was because it wasnt on his agenda Monday.
Whatever the case, convicted killer Nikko Jenkins wanted no part of his attorneys attempts to disqualify him for the death penalty based on his last IQ test a test that saw him score a 69 at age 17.
Such a score meets the standard for what Nebraska law calls mental retardation. And the U.S. Supreme Court has forbidden executions of people who suffer from mental retardation.
No matter, Jenkins said.
I would like to waive this IQ testimony, he said, interrupting his attorney during his capital-punishment proceedings. Im not portraying that Im under the threshold to procure the death penalty.
Jenkins attorney, Douglas County Public Defender Tom Riley, pressed on anyway.
Im not going to sit here and watch him put a noose around his own neck, Riley said. The overriding aspect we have here is that, whether Mr. Jenkins agrees with it or not, he falls under the statute that precludes capital punishment (for the learning disabled).
This (death penalty hearing) should end here and now.
It will last most of the week.
After four hours of testimony, District Judge Peter Bataillon rejected the low IQ argument. For one, it was an abbreviated test, given to a group of incoming prisoners and not a more thorough, individual IQ test. For another, the prison psychologist who ad
ministered the test said Jenkins completed it in an extremely rapid manner.
Another factor the judge cited: Jenkins had scored an 84 on an IQ test when he was 8. And there were indications, though no substantiation, that he had scored a 92 on an IQ test when he was 15.
Ultimately, the judge said he trusted state psychologist Jennifer Cimpl-Bohns review of Jenkins intellectual abilities, noting that she has spent more than 40 hours with him over the past few years. She described Jenkins as smart with a decent vocabulary even if he is completely narcissistic.
She attributed his inability to adapt to prison life to a personality disorder, not an intellectual deficit.
Folks with narcissism have an inflated view of themselves, she said. He believes hes smarter than everyone else.
That trait was on full display as the death penalty hearing began Monday. Bataillon along with Judge Terri Harder of western Nebraska and Mark Johnson of northeast Nebraska will decide whether Jenkins should receive the death penalty for a spree in which he killed four Omahans in 10 days in 2013: Juan Uribe-Pena and Jorge Cajiga-Ruiz on Aug. 11; Curtis Bradford on Aug. 19; and Andrea Kruger on Aug. 21.
The two judges from outside Omaha were introduced to whats become known as the Nikko show.
Four times, Jenkins demanded to be heard and began speaking without waiting. Such outbursts have become so commonplace that its easy to forget how rarely other defendants speak in court, outside of testifying.
Judge Bataillon politely told Jenkins to wait his turn.
The 30-year-old convict obliged sort of. At one point, Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine told the judge that Cimpl-Bohn, the psychologist, was present.
Jenkins perked up. Where she at? he said.
Prosecutors have alleged multiple counts of three different aggravating circumstances that could lead to the death penalty: that Jenkins killed multiple people; that he did so to conceal his identity and that he had a substantial history of violent behavior.
At one point, Kleine thumbed through court documents as he recited Jenkins lengthy record, including his convictions for carjacking two women at age 15.
Kleine: And he was sentenced to...
Jenkins: 14 to 15 years.
Earlier, Jenkins called on Kleine to object to the testimony of a doctor who didnt even administer the IQ test. He called her testimony hearsay.
Im just confused right now, an agitated Jenkins grumbled to the judge. My understanding is, we werent going to revisit competency.
Exhibit A, Riley said. A perfect example of him not understanding the words that he says.
Jenkins has repeatedly stated that his primary desire is to get out of solitary confinement regardless of whether that means he goes to death row. During a hearing two weeks ago, he asserted that he would get more privileges on death row.
Kirk Newring, a former prison psychologist now in private practice, equated Jenkins attitude to suicide by cop, where a suspect with a death wish forces a police officer to shoot him.
This is suicide by state, Newring said. A person is taking active steps to promote their own death. But the instrument is now the state, not himself.
Other court observers have doubted that Jenkins has a death wish. As one law enforcement official noted, Jenkins has never expressed any belief that he might be executed. Rather, he has made predictions that the U.S. Supreme Court will hear his case and overturn his conviction.
Any appeals seemed years away Monday as the first witness testified to some of Jenkins violent behavior.
In December 2009, Tecumseh prison officials came up with an idea to allow Jenkins to attend a grandmothers funeral in Omaha in the hopes that it would motivate him to behave better in prison.
Luke Morris, a corrections captain, said he and two other prison workers drove Jenkins to the funeral in central Omaha.
After arriving, Jenkins greeted a few relatives, then asked to use the bathroom.
Morris and another prison official escorted Jenkins, who was in leg chains and handcuffs, to the restroom. Once inside, they unlocked one of his handcuffs.
After using the bathroom, Jenkins turned around.
He requested that we let him go, Morris said, or else his boys would come in and it would be a bloodbath.
Morris and a case worker declined. As Jenkins argued, Morris tried to recuff his hand. Jenkins resisted and punched Morris in the mouth.
A struggle ensued, and prison workers regained control of Jenkins.
It was only then that Jenkins started claiming that an Egyptian god, Apophis, instructed him to attack the prison officials, prosecutor Nissa Jones noted. Likewise, Jenkins often has blamed his crimes on voices from Apophis.
Long before the ill-fated funeral furlough was the ill-fated IQ test. Prison officials administer it, along with other tests, to get a read on inmates intelligence and behavior.
Jenkins finished the abbreviated test in about one-third of the time it normally takes, Cimpl-Bohn said.
Among the words he got right: Talk. Hideous. Pardon.
Among the words he got wrong:
Ignorant.
Pariah.
Doom.
Correction: The date of Curtis Bradford's death was reported incorrectly in a previous version of this story.
Goodwill Omaha is undergoing sweeping changes, including the exits of more top executives, a top-to-bottom evaluation of its pay structure and a commitment to put more thrift store profits into its mission of serving the disabled and others with barriers to employment.
Additional steps the embattled charity now plans also include getting a third-party assessment of its operations and governance, undergoing a review of its ethics through another outside organization, and ending the controversial practice of paying some disabled workers less than the minimum wage.
Goodwills board disclosed the changes as part of its initial plan to move forward in the wake of a World-Herald investigation that laid open the charitys corporate-style executive pay, scant thrift store profits devoted to jobs programs and an internal culture that put maximizing profits ahead of the clients the tax-exempt charity is set up to serve.
Through the Omaha World-Herald articles, we have learned some lessons, and discussions on the topics highlighted in the articles have been taking place over the last few weeks, read a statement from the board of trustees and Pauli Bishop, the charitys interim CEO. We are committed to making changes and moving forward.
The charity also confirmed it has made additional personnel changes beyond the resignation of CEO Frank McGree, who stepped down two weeks ago in the immediate wake of The World-Herald investigation. While not disclosing specifics, Goodwill said Friday two jobs were eliminated while another longtime employee announced his retirement.
Sources said the new retiree is the charitys No. 2 executive, longtime Executive Vice President Andy Bradley. The sources also said those losing jobs included Vice President Todd Milbrandt, who The World-Herald revealed had oversight of a Goodwill program in which Chinese-made hair rollers were repackaged in bags labeled Made in America. Milbrandts name was removed from the charitys website Friday.
The changes will likely be viewed favorably by many of those upset by The World-Heralds revelations, though it still might take time for the charity to fully win back public trust and confidence. Goodwill officials acknowledged last week that material donations to its thrift stores have taken a big hit down 26 percent so far this month compared with a year ago.
A trustee for the Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Memorial Foundation, a major Goodwill financial donor that had announced a suspension of future giving, said he was glad to hear of Goodwills plans for change.
But they need to restore trust not by what they say but what they do, said Andy Davis, the trustee. Goodwill needs to demonstrate by their actions that fewer dollars are spent on executive pay and more is being spent on its important job-training programs. They have a lot of work to do.
In spite of Goodwills slogan that shopping at or donating to its thrift stores helps needy job seekers, The World-Heralds investigation found that at the charitys Omaha affiliate, such efforts have been more likely to contribute to lofty executive salaries.
McGree received a corporate-style pay package exceeding $400,000 annually more than double the average for CEOs at other Omaha social service nonprofits. A $519,000 retention bonus in 2014 brought his pay that year close to $1 million.
In all, 14 executives and managers at the charity last year were paid $100,000 or more, including McGrees daughter. For its size, no large Goodwill affiliate in the country had more employees paid in six figures, the newspaper found.
The paper also revealed that out of $4 million in profits generated by Goodwills thrift stores last year, only $557,000 found its way into its job programs. The rest of the thrift profits were gobbled up by the agencys overhead expenses, including much of its executive pay.
The charitys executive pay also stood in sharp contrast to that of its rank-and-file workers, relatively low-paid social workers and store managers and retail employees making just over minimum wage. The charity has additionally employed more than 100 disabled workers at less than minimum wage legal under a controversial Depression-era federal law.
Former employees told the paper that Goodwills mission in recent years has taken a back seat to executive pay, with job trainers who worked with disabled students frustrated by the charitys reluctance to hire graduates to work in the profit-driven thrift stores.
In the wake of the series, numerous major Goodwill financial donors and many who regularly donate to the charitys thrift stores vowed to pull future support.
McGree resigned within days, and the charitys board vowed other changes. The latest moves followed a meeting last week of the nonprofits board.
The charity now will be shedding two more big salaries with the retirement of Bradley ($237,000 in total compensation last year) and the elimination of Milbrandts job ($172,000). In fact, with their departures, along with McGrees retirement and the exit of the former chief operating officer earlier this year, four of Goodwills five highest-paid employees will have left this year. Their combined total compensation in 2015: almost $1.1 million.
Going forward, Goodwill plans to obtain an outside assessment of its executive pay practices. It also set a goal of conducting a top-to-bottom compensation audit for the entire organization.
Central to the charitys other plans is a refocusing on its mission. Goodwills statement said retail thrift store profits will be maximized to enhance mission programming throughout our community.
Payment of subminimum wages for severely disabled employees will end by next year, the charity said. Goodwill said the move had already been in the works, and the number of employees making less than minimum wage had recently dropped from 110 to 32. The charity said it is moving deliberately on the change to make sure the added income does not cause some disabled adults to lose important federal or state benefits.
Bishop, the Goodwill chief financial officer who has stepped in as interim CEO, said the charity has not yet determined who will conduct the third-party review of the charity. Goodwill has reached out to the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands in hopes of identifying a candidate for that role.
The charitys internal culture will be another focus. The charity said it will form an employee council to gather input from throughout the organization. Additionally, it plans an internal survey of its culture and ethics through the Business Ethics Alliance, a nonprofit in Omaha that promotes and offers programs on ethical business practices.
After refusing for more than two months to discuss its executive pay with The World-Herald, Goodwill now is pledging to improve its transparency both internally and externally.
Goodwill said it will retool the metrics that measure its community impact and report those results on a quarterly basis. It will also begin posting its federal tax filing where its required to disclose its finances and executive compensation on its website. And it said it will improve internal communications, including encouraging interaction between rank-and-file employees and leadership.
Erin Swanson Russell, a Goodwill representative, said the board is still formulating its plans for finding a permanent successor to McGree.
Anne Hindery, CEO of the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands, confirmed that Bishop had reached out to her organization. Hindery said she shared with Goodwill its annual survey of comparable pay at nonprofits, its best practices guidelines for boards, and offered additional training for its board members. Hindery is also working to help identify someone to do the third-party review.
Hindery said the plans Goodwill has announced are a good first step. But she said the charity now needs to turn those plans into real organizational change.
This is an opportunity as painful as it may be to say What do we need to fix? Hindery said. I think they are receptive to learning about the right things, and I think thats great. What they ultimately do at the end of the day, time will tell.
Kim Daeges, whose 23-year-old son, Garrett, is disabled, said her hair was on fire when she read last month how Goodwills executive pay was taking away from funding for the needy. She applauded the staff shake-up and the plans for change.
Its great news, she said. Im hoping they will now put that million dollars into funding for the people theyre supposed to help.
A Boys Town staffer tapped his emergency medical training over the weekend to help rescue a man who had jumped into Lake Michigan.
David Martin and his fiancee, Eilis Smith, had been at a concert on the east end of Chicagos Navy Pier on Saturday night and were looking out at the lake. About 11:35 p.m., a man who appeared to be having hallucinations approached them.
Martin, 23, and Smith, 24, both of whom are youth care specialists at Boys Town, tried to calm him.
It was pretty easy to see that the 19-year-old had taken some type of hallucinogenic drug, Martin said. He appeared agitated. Martin later learned the man thought he was in the middle of a shooting incident.
We tried to talk to him and asked him if he needed help, tried to calm him down, Martin said. He was not in a state where he was able to take care of himself.
The couple attempted to guide the man away from the edge of the pier and back into the piers Grand Ballroom so they could find him medical help. But the man curled up in a fetal position and began grabbing at Smiths leg.
He just started saying things like, Theyre coming, theyre coming, theyre coming! Martin said. He was terrified.
The man then got up and jumped five or six feet out into the lake, Martin said. The man appeared to be treading water, and the couple began calling for him to come back to the dock.
The couples shouts attracted the attention of Ron Romero, who had just finished working as a sound man for a band in the Grand Ballroom. Martin saw a box nearby that contained a life-preserver ring. He handed the life preserver to Romero.
Martin stripped down to his T-shirt and underwear before diving into the lake to help the man, who by then was floating facedown in the water. Romero tossed Martin the life preserver from the pier.
While Martin was in the water, Smith held tight to the life preservers rope with one hand and called 911 with the other. Martin said his fiancee stayed calm. He said he felt confident throughout.
I had emergency medical training in high school and from the Boys Scouts, Martin said. I knew how to handle him in the water.
I put him on my chest face up, and we were pulled toward shore.
A crowd that had gathered helped lift the man and then Martin to safety. Fortunately, it wasnt too cold Saturday night about 50 degrees when Martin jumped in. Still, Martin was shivering, and he was checked at the scene for hypothermia. He was fine, but his Fitbit fitness tracker was ruined.
Back on land, Martin could see the man was breathing. As the man lay on the pavement, Martin moved him onto his side, with his head resting on one arm.
Its the recovery position, Martin said. Its used to be able to help him vomit and clear his airway.
The 19-year-old was taken to a Chicago hospital.
If we hadnt been there, that man might have gone into the lake and no one would have been around to see it, Martin said. Were glad we could be there when we were needed.
Martin, a Wisconsin native, and Smith, who is from Virginia, both are 2015 graduates of Creighton University. They have lived in Omaha for five years and began working at Boys Town following graduation.
Jeff Peterson, Boys Towns senior director of campus operations, said in an email that Boys Town is "so proud of these two. They are great Boys Town employees who are vigilant and caring at work, so were not surprised that they showed that same compassion to others outside of Boys Town. They are bringing Father Flanagans mission to the other parts of the country. Thank goodness for their heroism.
The 19-year-old man contacted Martin on Sunday night to thank him.
Hes doing well now, and hes back to a lucid mental state, Martin said in a telephone interview from Wisconsin, where he is visiting his parents. (Doctors) are still monitoring because he had water in his lungs.
Martin said that at Boys Town, the message I am trying to spread is that we are given gifts and blessings. There are responsibilities that come with those gifts to share the blessings of our lives.
WASHINGTON (AP) President-elect Donald Trump made his first two key personnel appointments Sunday.
One was an overture to Republican circles by naming GOP chief Reince Priebus as his White House chief of staff, the other was a shot across the bow of the Washington establishment by tabbing Breitbart news executive Stephen Bannon as chief strategist and senior counselor.
The two men had made up the president-elects chief of staff shortlist, and while Priebus received that job, Bannons post also is expected to wield significant clout. The media executive with ties to the alt-right and white nationalist movement was given top billing in the press release announcing their appointments.
Trumps hires were, at first glance, contradictory, though they fit a pattern of the celebrity businessman creating a veritable Rorschach test that allowed his supporters to see what they wanted. Priebus, who lashed the RNC to Trump this summer despite some intraparty objections, is a GOP operative with deep expertise of the Washington establishment that Trump has vowed to shake up. He has close ties to House Speaker Paul Ryan, a fellow Wisconsinite.
I am very grateful to the president-elect for this opportunity to serve him and this nation as we work to create an economy that works for everyone, secure our borders, repeal and replace Obamacare and destroy radical Islamic terrorism, Priebus said in the statement announcing his appointment.
Bannon, meanwhile, helped transform the Breitbart news site into the leading mouthpiece of the partys anti-establishment wing, which helped fuel the businessmans political rise. Ryan has been one of his most frequent targets.
Steve and Reince are highly qualified leaders who worked well together on our campaign and led us to a historic victory, Trump said. Now I will have them both with me in the White House as we work to make America great again.
Neither Priebus nor Bannon bring policy experience to their new White House roles. Chiefs of staff in particular play a significant role in policy making, serving as a liaison to Cabinet agencies and deciding what information makes it to the presidents desk. Theyre often one of the last people in the room with the president as major decisions are made.
Trumps adult children, who serve as influential advisers to the president-elect, are said to have been concerned about having a controversial figure in the chief of staff role and backed Priebus for the job.
In announcing the appointments, Trump said Priebus and Bannon would work as equal partners effectively creating two power centers in the West Wing. The arrangement is risky and could leave ambiguity over who makes final decisions.
Trump has long encouraged rivalries, both in business and in his presidential campaign. He cycled through three campaign managers during his White House run, creating a web of competing alliances among staffers.
Priebus is a traditional choice, one meant as an olive branch to the Republicans who control both houses of Congress as Trump looks to pass his legislative agenda.
Ryan tweeted, Im very proud and excited for my friend (at)Reince. Congrats! Ryan made no mention of Bannon in that tweet, but earlier told CNN that he didnt know Bannon but I trust Donalds judgment.
The Bannon pick, however, is anything but safe.
Under Bannons tenure, Brietbart pushed a nationalist agenda and became one of the leading outlets of the so-called alt-right a movement often associated with white supremacist ideas that oppose multiculturalism and defend Western values.
It is easy to see why the KKK views Trump as their champion when Trump appoints one of the foremost peddlers of white supremacist themes and rhetoric as his top aide, Adam Jentleson, spokesman for top Senate Democrat, Harry Reid, said in a statement late Sunday. He was referring to the Ku Klux Klan.
Bannon, who became campaign CEO in August, pushed Trump to adopt more populist rhetoric and paint rival Hillary Clinton as part of a global conspiracy made up of the political, financial and media elite, bankers bent on oppressing the countrys working people a message that carried Trump to the White House but to some, carried anti-Semitic undertones.
An ex-wife of Bannon said he expressed fear of Jews when the two battled over sending their daughters to private school nearly a decade ago, according to court papers reviewed this summer by The Associated Press. In a sworn court declaration following their divorce, Mary Louise Piccard said her ex-husband had objected to sending their twin daughters to an elite Los Angeles academy because he didnt want the girls going to school with Jews.
A spokeswoman for Bannon denied he made those statements.
The appointments came after a day in which Trumps tough-talking plan to rein in illegal immigration showed signs Sunday of cracking, with the president-elect seemingly backing off his vow to build a solid wall along the southern U.S. border and Ryan rejecting any deportation force targeting people in the country illegally.
Though Trump told CBS 60 Minutes in an interview airing Sunday night that his border wall might look more like a fence in spots, one thing didnt change from his primary: the combative billionaire took to Twitter to settle some scores.
During a four-hour spree, Trump gloated about establishment Republicans congratulating him and savaged The New York Times for being dishonest and highly inaccurate.
The (at)nytimes states today that DJT believes more countries should acquire nuclear weapons. How dishonest are they. I never said this! Trump tweeted late Sunday morning.
But in a March interview with the Times, Trump was asked whether he would object to Japan acquiring its own nuclear arsenal, which it does not now have. He replied, Would I rather have North Korea have them with Japan sitting there having them also? You may very well be better off if thats the case.
Trump also told 60 Minutes he would eschew the $400,000 annual salary for the president, taking only $1 a year.
An informational open house has been scheduled for Tuesday on proposed improvements to Nebraska Highway 41 in southeast Nebraska.
The open house will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Adams Fire and Rescue Training Room, 730 Main St., in Adams, the Nebraska Department of Roads said.
Construction is tentatively scheduled to begin next fall, roads officials said, with completion by fall 2019.
The proposed project would resurface 11 miles of Highway 41, build offset right turn lanes at the junction of Highways 41 and 77, resurface a quarter-mile of Nebraska Spur 34C, and remove and replace six bridges on Highway 41, roads officials said. Part of the proposed project would require detouring northbound and southbound South 148th Road.
The replacement of the bridge over Indian Creek would affect the Homestead Corridor Trail, which crosses Highway 41, roads officials said. A temporary trail would be built to detour the Homestead Corridor Trail.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
By Khalid Kazimov Trend:
The Iranian defense minister, Brigadier-General Hossein Dehqan and his visiting Chinese counterpart Chang Wanquan have signed an agreement on the expansion of cooperation in defense sphere.
The agreement envisages exchanging military experience, particularly in training of personnel, as well as an all-out cooperation in fight against terrorism and insecurity in the region, TASNIM news agency reported.
The agreement was signed Nov. 14 morning during the ongoing visit of the Minister of National Defense of China Chang Wanquan to Tehran.
Speaking to Chang Wanquan, the Iranian minister said that upgrading ties with China in defense and military areas is a priority of Irans defense diplomacy.
Saying that the military and defense cooperation between Iran and China guarantees the peace and stability in the world as well as the region, he noted that all the regional states should be held accountable for protecting peace and stability in the Asia and Oceania region.
He further blamed the expansion of terrorism in the Middle East on foreigners, saying the region has turned into a hotspot of insecurity and crises due to the foreigners meddling in the region as well as their disrespectful behavior towards the national sovereignty of the regional states.
The Chinese ministers three-day visit takes place at the official invitation of Brigadier-General Hossein Dehqan.
Chang Wanquan is slated to meet several high-ranking Iranian officials to discuss bilateral issues as well as regional and international developments.
In a "60 Minutes" interview scheduled to air Sunday, President-elect Donald Trump said he planned to immediately deport 2 million to 3 million undocumented immigrants after his inauguration next January.
"What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people, probably 2 million, it could be even 3 million, we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate," Trump told "60 Minutes" correspondent Lesley Stahl, according to a preview of the interview released by CBS. "But we're getting them out of our country. They're here illegally."
Stahl had pressed Trump about his campaign pledge to deport "millions and millions of undocumented immigrants." Trump told her that after securing the border, his administration would make a "determination" on the remaining undocumented immigrants in the country.
"After the border is secure and after everything gets normalized, we're going to make a determination on the people that they're talking about who are terrific people. They're terrific people, but we are gonna make a determination at that," Trump said. "But before we make that determination ... it's very important, we are going to secure our border."
His comments echoed those he had made at the start of his campaign: "When Mexico sends its people, they're not sending their best," Trump had said last June when he announced his candidacy. "They're not sending you. They're not sending you. They're sending people that have lots of problems, and they're bringing those problems with us. They're bringing drugs. They're bringing crime. They're rapists. And some, I assume, are good people."
Trump's campaign promises also included fully repealing the Affordable Care Act, forcing Mexico to pay for a border wall and banning Muslims from entering the U.S.
Since winning the election, Trump and his key advisers have been backing away from some of those promises, and Republican leaders who made the Sunday political-show circuit seemed to approach the issue of mass deportations more cautiously.
"I think it's difficult to do," Republican House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., told Chris Wallace on "Fox News Sunday" earlier Sunday morning. "First thing you have to do is secure the border and then we'll have discussions."
McCarthy also hedged on the border wall, saying Republicans were focused on "securing the southern border" but with the aid of technology rather than necessarily a full-length brick-and-mortar wall.
House speaker Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., told Jake Tapper on CNN's "State of the Union" Sunday that securing the border was their top priority.
"We are not planning on erecting a deportation force," Ryan said. "Donald Trump is not planning on that."
Regarding his border wall plans, Trump told Stahl on "60 Minutes" that he would accept fencing along some of the border, as Republicans in Congress have proposed.
"For certain areas, I would. But for certain areas a wall is more appropriate," Trump said. "I'm very good at this. It's called construction."
On Thursday, former House speaker Newt Gingrich admitted that Trump would likely not focus on getting Mexico to pay for the wall, as the candidate had promised during his campaign but that it had been "a great campaign device."
CBS had released on Saturday two preview clips of same "60 Minutes" segment, Trump's first televised interview since winning the election last week.
Seated with his wife, Melania, and his four adult children, Trump spoke to Stahl about his seemingly shifting position on Obamacare, saying he would try to preserve key parts of the health care act, and also praised Hillary Clinton as "very strong and very smart."
Trump told Stahl that Clinton's phone call conceding the election was "lovely" and acknowledged that making the phone call was likely "tougher for her than it would have been for me," according to previews of the interview released by CBS.
"She couldn't have been nicer. She just said, 'Congratulations, Donald, well done,'" Trump told Stahl. "And I said, 'I want to thank you very much. You were a great competitor.' She is very strong and very smart."
Trump's tone in the interview was in sharp contrast to his bitter attacks on the campaign trail, in which he nicknamed Clinton "Crooked Hillary" and encouraged chants of "Lock her up!" at his rallies. Among other insults, Trump also referred to his competitor as "the devil," "a bigot" and at the tail end of the final presidential debate "such a nasty woman."
Trump also told Stahl that former president Bill Clinton called him the following day and "couldn't have been more gracious."
"He said it was an amazing run one of the most amazing he's ever seen," Trump said. "He was very, very, really, very nice."
During the campaign, Trump had tried to use Bill Clinton's infidelities as a way to attack and embarrass Hillary Clinton. For the second presidential debate, Trump had sought to intimidate his competitor by inviting women who had accused the former president of sexual abuse to sit in the Trump family box. Debate officials quashed the idea.
In the interview with Stahl, Trump did not rule out calling both of the Clintons for advice during his term.
"I mean, this is a very talented family," he said. "Certainly, I would certainly think about that."
Trump also reiterated on "60 Minutes" that he may keep portions of the Affordable Care Act, something he had mentioned he might do after meeting with President Barack Obama in the White House on Thursday.
When Stahl asked whether people with pre-existing conditions would still be covered after Trump repealed and replaced Obamacare, Trump said they would "because it happens to be one of the strongest assets."
"Also, with the children living with their parents for an extended period, we're going to... very much try and keep that," Trump added, referring to portions of the health care act that cover children under their parents' insurance through age 26. "It adds cost, but it's very much something we're going to try and keep."
When Stahl questioned whether there would be a gap between the repeal of Obamacare and the implementation of a new plan that could leave millions of people uninsured, Trump interrupted her.
"Nope. We're going to do it simultaneously. It'll be just fine. It's what I do. I do a good job. You know, I mean, I know how to do this stuff," Trump said. "We're going to repeal and replace it. And we're not going to have, like, a two-day period and we're not going to have a two-year period where there's nothing. It will be repealed and replaced. I mean, you'll know. And it will be great health care for much less money."
Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert, a Republican, wrote in U.S. Sen. John McCain for president.
I wanted to be very proud of my vote, said Stothert, who kicked off her re-election campaign Monday.
She noted that McCain was vetted when he was the Republican nominee for president in 2008.
She said she shares his philosophical ideals, he is a leader in the Senate and he is a true gentleman.
Stothert said she didnt consider the McCain write-in to be wasting her vote.
Wasting a vote would be (picking) someone I dont feel confidence in, she said.
Stothert said shell support Donald Trump as president-elect.
And she said shes a Republican. I believe in their philosophy and ideals, not based on the candidate of the moment.
Stothert has said she didnt favor Trump in the Republican primary.
She originally said she planned to vote for the Republican nominee. But she withdrew that statement after a tape surfaced of him using crude language to describe grabbing women and kissing them without their permission.
Other Nebraska Republicans said they would still vote for Trump after the tape was released.
U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse of Nebraska was one of Trumps top critics from his own party. He has said he wrote in Mike Pence, the vice presidential nominee, for president.
In May, delegates at the State Republican Convention overwhelmingly passed a resolution saying the party opposed any effort by current officeholders to encourage a third-party candidate. They argued that it would only help Democrats win the White House in November.
Republican consultant Sam Fischer who is now Stotherts campaign manager introduced the resolution.
Fischer said Stothert intended to support the Republican nominee at the time the resolution was passed but changed her mind later.
I completely respect that, Fischer said. I am proud to work for her campaign.
Stotherts opponent in the 2017 mayoral election, State Sen. Heath Mello, said he voted for fellow Democrat Hillary Clinton.
Mello noted that Clinton won in Douglas County and criticized Stotherts announcement as political expediency.
After pledging to support Donald Trump as her partys nominee, the mayor refused to speak out while he attacked Gold Star families, veterans, people with disabilities, and other groups, he said in a statement Monday night.
Lawmakers return this week to Capitol Hill amid a starkly different political reality from when they left town more than a month ago.
Donald Trumps surprise presidential win means Republicans will soon control all levers of power at the national level, and GOP lawmakers are itching to press forward in areas where President Barack Obama and congressional Democrats previously blocked them.
Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., said she wants to jump on the priorities she hears from Nebraskans as she travels the state: repealing the Affordable Care Act, overhauling the tax code and eliminating regulations.
It will be nice to get bills to the presidents desk and have him sign them, Fischer said.
Her aides already are poring over environmental regulations they have targeted such as Waters of the United States and the Clean Power Plan.
Those initiatives are aimed at protecting the countrys air and water, but people in farm country worry that the water regulations will mean that drainage ditches get treated like rivers and industry warns about the business costs that would come from complying with strict air pollution standards.
Fischer said shell also be looking for the new administrations plans on national security.
Trump recently outlined his own agenda for the first 100 days of his presidency, and his plan includes the items Fischer cited.
In addition, Trump has proposals to expand restrictions on lobbying by former lawmakers and government officials restrictions Fischer said she supports.
I dont like a revolving door, Fischer said.
Trump also has called for a major infrastructure package. Fischer, who has made infrastructure one of her signature issues, said that shell take a look at the new presidents proposals but that shes not ready to sign off on a bunch of spending just for the sake of it.
Instead, she said she hopes Trump will consider her own proposal that would create a national infrastructure bank funded by $30 billion of capital captured through a tax repatriation holiday. Thats where companies holding money overseas to avoid taxes are allowed to move it to the United States at a lower tax rate than normal.
Republicans kept their Senate majority, but not by much. Theyll most likely have a 52-48 edge, far short of the 60 votes required to overcome a filibuster.
Some of the GOP proposals can be accomplished through the rather arcane procedural process known as budget reconciliation, which is not subject to the filibuster. Fischer said she expects that Republicans will use that method for repealing the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare.
Senate Republicans also will be under significant pressure from their core supporters to change the filibuster rules if Democrats block their initiatives in areas such as immigration.
Fischer said legislation is better when both parties have a hand in crafting it. The filibuster, she said, serves as a valuable tool in forcing Republicans and Democrats to work together.
Still, she wasnt prepared to rule out an end to the filibuster rules.
Well see, she said.
Rs 500 crore wedding celebrations begin in Bengaluru
Bengaluru
oi-Anusha
The Bengaluru Palace had turned a fortress as preparations for Janardhana Reddy's daughter Brahmini Reddy's wedding were underway over the last few days. The family arrived in Bengaluru on Saturday and the lavish wedding ceremonies started on Sunday evening.
[Also Read: A Rs 500 crore wedding? Demonetise that!]
Heavy security continues to be deployed at the venue. Sunday was musical night for families of the Bride and Groom and their guests. Massive stage with heavy lighting in colorful themes was set up. Hundreds of dancers performed to film music with special performances by Janardhana Reddy's son and the couple themselves.
The 4 day affair is expected to see politicians, businessmen and celebrities alike. Taking lavish to a different level, Janardhana Reddy's team of designers have turned the Bengaluru Palace and its surrounding into the ancient kingdom of Vijayanagar with a temple, market street, an entire village set and 2 makeshift houses for the families of the Bride and the Groom.
Being touted as a nauseating display of wealth at a time when the country is reeling under the crisis of demonetisation, unofficial estimates peg the wedding at Rs 500 crore. The marriage ceremony is slated to take place on November 16 inside the grand set of a temple from Hampi.
Reddy's family members estimate the number of guests at 50,000 with performances by Bollywood actors including Shah Rukh Khan. Close confidante of Janardhana Reddy and MP from Karnataka, Sriramulu is looking after the arrangements at Palace Grounds.
Speaking to the media, Janardhana Reddy said, " I will furnish information on my income and marriage expenditure with the concerned departments within a month. Journalists can also obtain information through RTI for an interesting report".
Considering the blatant display of wealth many prominent faces are expected to give the wedding a miss. Karnataka's Health Minister Ramesh Kumar was the first to declare that he won't attend the wedding.
OneIndia News
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Story first published: Monday, November 14, 2016, 18:54 [IST]
Demonetisation: Angry customer damages ATM kiosk in Chennai
Chennai
oi-Anusha
Angered over ATM not dispensing cash, a customer reportedly broke the glass of an ATM in Chennai on Sunday. The local police have registered a case in this regard and have begun investigations.
[Also Read: Demonetisation- What is a Micro ATM ]
HDFC ATM in Ponneri locality of Chennai had been dysfunctional for 4 days since the announcement of demonetising Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes came. The 'Out of Service' board was finally removed late Sunday night following which people started queuing up outside the ATM.
One of the customers who had lined up outside the ATM is said to have pelted stones at the kiosk's glass when the machine didn't dispense any money. The local police have registered a case on unknown person for indulging in vandalism.
It was also reported that the ATM has no security guards deployed at the time of the event. CCTVs installed at the ATM kiosk is being verified to ascertain the identity of the person who damaged the ATM kiosk.
OneIndia News
Why was Jayalalithaa's statement from hospital released twice?
Chennai
oi-Anusha
For the first time since her hospitalisation Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa issued a statement addressing people and party workers on Sunday. Within minutes of the statement being issued, speculations were raised about it.
[Also Read: I have taken a rebirth says Jayalalithaa ]
The AIADMK took to its Twitter account to release what they called J Jayalalithaa's statement from the hospital. Typed in Tamil, the letter neither had the Chief Minister's signature nor was typed in the party letterhead. Hours after questions were raised over the same, the party put out a fresh statement but this time on a letter head and the Chief Minister's signature.
"The first statement must have been put out in a hurry but I assure you that Amma has signed on it. As you already are aware, Prathap Reddy had said that she was well", said party spokesperson C R Saraswati to OneIndia.
J Jayalalithaa's signature in the second statement copy released by the AIADMK has given rise to speculation as well since it varies greatly from her signature on official documents including the affidavait that was submitted to the election commission during the previous assembly polls of Tamil Nadu as recently as April this year.
"Amma has signed in Tamil. It is her signature. Doctors from London have said she is recovering. They can't be politiking over this. Most people within the party weren't aware of such a statement coming out. I was also surprised but people and party workers alike are happy to hear from Amma. The letter came directly from Apollo", said the spokesperson.
The DMK, however, has questioned the timing of the statement and has accused the AIADMK only caring about votes. "AIADMK thinks it is enough to care about people's vote than their welfare. Or is this being released as a last resort to win the elections?", asked DMK Treasurer M K Stalin.
OneIndia News
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Story first published: Monday, November 14, 2016, 12:07 [IST]
Caught months later, man had robbed bank and got a new look
Banks warn staff over unauthorised exchange of notes
India
oi-IANS
By Ians English
New Delhi, Nov 14: Banks have issued alerts to their employees, warning them of serious action over unauthorised transactions following demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes in India.
According to a senior public sector bank officer, complaints were received that some bankers were indulging in unfair means like not maintaining records of customers who come to deposit or exchange the phased-out currency notes.
Allegations were also made that some bank employees were entertaining people known to them and issuing them lower denomination currency notes many times over the limit without bothering to keep records.
This is in violation of the government instructions that banks can exchange cash up to Rs 4,000 per person once till November 24.
The central government demonetised Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes effective November 8 midnight leading to a sharp demand for smaller currency notes. Banks and ATMs saw huge queues of people trying to exchange or withdraw money across the country, with most coming back empty-handed.
Read More: Demonetisation: India is going to face serious recession, predicts economist Prabhat Patnaik
The government has placed restrictions on the amount that an individual can exchange or withdraw from the banks.
Employees of the public sector banks on Monday received instructions from higher ups that they need to enter the data of their customers in the banking software.
"Further, it was made very clear that the exchange of cash has to be recorded in CCTV and this footage has to be shared with RBI. It was also informed that any non-compliance would be dealt by RBI and (the) bank very seriously," read the note sent to the bank branches.
Some of the head offices of banks warned against this "dangerous" trend stating that serious action would be taken against the staff if they indulged in such activities.
"All the branches are instructed to sensitise their staff and desist from such practices. They should understand that they are diluting the government of India guidelines which attracts serious punishment," said the note sent by bank head offices to their branches.
Many other banks have also asked their branch offices to keep a strict vigil and maintain proper records of all the customers who exchange or deposit the now-spiked currency.
IANS
Woman, her two children mowed down by train; Suicide not ruled out
Childline Se Dosthi: Campaign to reach out to politicians, Aam Aadmi, to help underprivileged kids
India
oi-Oneindia
By Oneindia Staff Writer
Bengaluru, Nov 14: On the occasion of Children's Day, celebrated every year on November 14, Childline Bengaluru has kick-started its campaign--Childline Se Dosthi (CSD)--on Monday.
The week-long campaign, which will end on November 20, is an attempt to reach out to the masses to create awareness about various problems faced by underprivileged children.
Childline is a country-wide NGO which helps children in times of emergency, through its toll free number 1098.
"In India, millions of children are homeless and out of school. They have no access to shelter, food and education. They are subjected to brutality and torture. We also have millions of children who are working in homes, dhabas and industries, in spite of a ban on child labour. The campaign is to engage civil society to reach out to underprivileged children and help them," said Nagasimha G Rao, nodal coordinator of Childline, Bengaluru.
"The aim is to capture the attention of those who are unaware about Childline and its ongoing efforts to support as well as help people play their part in protecting children," he added.
As a part of the campaign, the members of Childline and several kids will visit schools, police stations, legislative assembly and other public places.
"The children will tie friendship bands--especially designed for the campaign with a Childline logo on it--on the wrists of teachers, police, politicians and common man to build friendship with them. Then we will explain to them that they can help children in distress by getting in touch with us through our toll free number 1098," said Rao.
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Story first published: Monday, November 14, 2016, 10:53 [IST]
BRO Recruitment 2022: Check details for 328 vacancies, last date and salary details here
Children's Day Google doodle is by Pune schoolgirl
India
oi-IANS
By Ians English
Pune, Nov 14 An 11-year-old schoolgirl from Pune has designed Monday's Google doodle, celebrating Children's Day that also marks the birth anniversary of India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
The student, Anvita Prashant Telang, studies in Vibgyor High School in Balewadi at Pune and her design was chosen nationally for being an imaginative, thoughtful and inspiring doodle, titled 'Enjoying Every Moment'.
"I am very happy... Since the time the doodle went up, I have been getting congratulatory messages from friends and others... They all want a party," Anvita said.
The Class 6 student submitted her esign on this year's theme, "If I could teach anyone anything, it would be..." for the Doodle4Google national contest earlier this year.
Her creativity and vision towards developing "a better world and healthy lifestyle" are reflected in her colourful doodle showcasing how everyone should 'Enjoy Every Moment' by appreciating simple things around us and live life stress-free.
Referring to the contest, Google India head of marketing Sapna Chadha said they were overwhelmed by the great participation from talented and creative young artists year-on-year since 2009.
"With Doodle4Google competition, we aim to celebrate and promote creativity, passion and imagination in our younger users," Chadha said.
Now, Anvita has another surprise in store on Monday evening -- some great gifts from her equally proud parents who learnt on Friday evening that she was the winner this year.
Anvita, who loves to draw, emphasised how to value the little and simple things of life as great sources of happiness, and feels people must lead happy and contended lives.
Reflecting her thoughts, the doodle shows a bunch of small boys and girls having fun, hanging from tree brances, playing with water, balloons, kites, flying and even daydreaming, in a natural green environment with flowers, butterflies, flying fish, birds and other aquatic life.
Besides Anvita, the other group finalists were B. Shrisha of Sri Prakash Vidyaniketan, Vishakhapatnam (Class I-III), and Akashdeep of Kendriya Vidyalala, Ranchi (Class VII-X).
The jury which selected her, included cartoonist Ajit Ninan, Art Director Savio Mascarenhas, creative artist Rob and Doodle team leader Ryan Germick, besides 100,000 public votes.
IANS
CPI (M) dubs Modi's emotional speech a "drama"
India
oi-Vikas
By Vikas
New Delhi, Nov 14 Senior CPI (M) leader Brinda Karat on Monday taunted Prime Minister Narendra Modi for getting emotional during his speech in Belgavi over the demonetisation issue and dubbed it as a "drama".
"Should we see the Prime Minister's tears or of a widow who is not getting her wage at the end of hard day's work (due to demonetisation). Should we see Pirme Minjister's teras or of those lakhs of plantation workers who are not getting their salaries? What is all this natakbaaji (Drama) by the Prime Minister," Karat told news agency ANI.
Prime Minister Modi, during his speech yesterday, became emotional while saying that he had sacrificed everything for the nation.
"Everything we do is for the betterment of the nation. I will leave no stone un-turned to transform the country...I have made sacrifices for, left even my family, for the nation," he said.
Meanwhile, long queues were seen outside banks and ATMs across the nation for the fifith consecutive day today. People faced a great deal of inconvenience as several ATMs kept going went dry due to cash crunch.
In a major attempt to tackle hoarding of black money, corruption and terror financing, Prime Minister Modi, on November 8, announced that all Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 rupee notes would cease to be valid in all forms of transactions.
Oneindia News
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Story first published: Monday, November 14, 2016, 11:54 [IST]
Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
By Khalid Kazimov Trend:
A top Iranian commander has called on China to stage joint military drills with the Islamic Republic.
Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Bagheri has expressed his countrys readiness for carrying out joint military exercises with China, Mehr news agency reported.
At a meeting with the Minister of National Defense of China Chang Wanquan, the Iranian commander touched upon the two countries plans to upgrade Iran-China ties to a strategic partnership of cooperation, saying Tehran and Beijing currently enjoy proper ties in defense sphere.
Earlier on the same day Iran and China inked an agreement to deepen ties in defense and military spheres.
The Chinese minister is in Tehran on a three-day visit at the official invitation of his Iranian counterpart Brigadier-General Hossein Dehqan.
Chang Wanquan is slated to meet several high-ranking Iranian officials to discuss bilateral issues as well as regional and international developments.
Five years of demonetisation: Notes in circulation on rise; so are digital payments
PM Modi should admit that demonetistion a failure: Owaisi on cash seizure in UP
Demonetisation: Government ups ATM withdrawal, old-notes exchange limit
India
oi-PTI
New Delhi, Nov 14: With public anger rising across the country over limited cash availability, the government tonight eased key restrictions including raising daily withdrawal limit from bank counters and ATM as well as hiking the amount of old and now defunct currency notes that can be exchanged.
To augment cash supplies, newly printed hard-to-fake Rs. 500 notes were also released in market.
However, banks in various parts of the country will remian closed today on the occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti.
After a review by Finance ministry, the limit of old and now defunct Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 rupee notes that can be exchanged for freshly minted Rs. 2000 and new Rs. 500 notes was increased from Rs. 4000 to Rs. 4500 per day.
Cash withdrawal limit at ATMs was hiked to Rs. 2,500 from Rs. 2,000 a day.
The weekly limit of Rs. 20,000 for withdrawal from bank counters has been increased to Rs. 24,000. The maximum limit of Rs. 10,000 per day on such withdrawals has been removed, the ministry said in a statement.
"Banks have been advised to increase the issuance and use of mobile wallets and debit/credit cards as also to provide them to those customers and establishments not having access to these non-cash means of payment," it said.
Also, the last date for submission of the annual life certificate for the government pensioners which is to be submitted in November every year has been extended up to January 15, 2017.
Finance Ministry this evening reviewed the position regarding availability and distribution of notes of all denominations in different parts of the country.
Instructions have been issued to the banks and post offices to ensure proper distribution of all notes, including those of smaller denominations, up to the last mile through mobile banking vans and Banking Correspondents (BCs) to ease pressure.
While the old Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 currency notes were demonetised from the midnight of November 8, a brand new Rs. 2000 note was introduced on November 10.
"In the first four days (from November 10th to 13th, upto 5 pm ), about Rs. 3 lakh crore of old Rs. 500 and 1000 bank notes have been deposited in the banking system and about Rs. 50,000 crores has been dispensed to customers by either withdrawal from their accounts or withdrawal from ATM's or by exchange at the counter," the statement said.
Within three four days, the banking system has handled about 21 crore transactions.
Further based on the review of the reports received from the States, banks and other sources, the ministry decided that continuous coordination is to be done with RBI, banks and post offices to make all denomination notes available at all locations.
"Instructions have been given to the banks and post offices to ensure proper distribution of all denomination notes. Banks have also been especially advised to ensure the availability and distribution of small denomination notes," it said.
Also, Chief Secretaries of the states have been asked to identify the rural pockets where availability of cash has been a problem and provide all support to ensure the last mile distribution of small denomination of notes is done through mobile banking vans and Banking Correspondents (BCs), the statement said.
"It has been reported that certain business houses viz. hospitals, caterers , tent houses etc. are not accepting Cheques/Demand Drafts and online payment transfer from customers. It is advised that in such cases customer can make a complaint to the concerned District Magistrates/District Administration for action against such establishments," the statement said.
All banks have been advised to arrange mobile banking vans to the extent possible at major hospitals to carry out emergency banking transaction for patients.
Banks have also been asked to make arrangements for separate queues for senior citizens and physically handicapped. Separate queues will also be arranged for exchange of cash to cash and transactions against bank accounts.
"State governments have been requested to facilitate opening of new bank accounts as a part of financial inclusion programme," the statement added.
PTI
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Story first published: Monday, November 14, 2016, 10:07 [IST]
Demonetisation move has led to financial anarchy: Sena
India
oi-PTI
Mumbai, Nov 14: Notwithstanding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's emotional appeal to people to cooperate with him to weed out illegal money, Shiv Sena today described the demonetisation as "demonic and unsystematic" that has led to "financial anarchy" in the country.
Lashing out further, the ruling ally said instead of striking Pakistan, Modi has wounded Indian citizens who do not have any black money and the few who actually possess illegal funds have safely parked it in foreign banks.
"125 crore Indians are standing in queues in scorching heat without food and water. Do you expect them to back you in future? Are you repaying people the blessings they gave you by forcing them to come on streets? This is blatant cheating with them," an editorial in Sena mouthpiece 'Saamana' said.
"The spectacle of weeding out black money is monstrous," it said. The Sena alleged that the path adopted by Modi to halt black money flow is "demonic" and "unsystematic" that has resulted in "financial anarchy" in the nation. "Instead of striking Pakistan, PM Modi has struck and wounded Indian citizens and mocked their nationalism by saluting them for bearing the anarchy," it said.
"Black money is not held by ordinary citizens who are standing in queues but a handful of people who have parked their money in foreign banks before the demonetisation announcement. What action has been taken against them?" it said.
Today, roads are empty, shops have no business, vegetable markets have no buyers, labourers have no work and petrol pumps are slowly getting shut for lack of change, the junior alliance partner said. Modi, in an impassioned plea to the nation yesterday, asked for 50 days to weed out the ill-gotten wealth in India.
Blending emotion with aggression, the PM mounted a counteroffensive against the opposition over demonetisation of high-value currency notes, promising more anti-graft measures in future "even if I'm burned alive".
PTI
Demonetisation - Opposition stands united against Modi
India
oi-Oneindia
By Oneindia Staff Writer
The opposition stood united today against the Government's decision to demonetise the Rs 500 and 1,000 notes. The Congress, TMC, AAP, SP, Left and BSP termed the decision of the government as a failed step. After a meeting held today, the opposition leaders would once again meet at 2 PM tomorrow to chalk out a strategy ahead of the Parliament session.
[Also Read: Demonetisation: Angry customer damages ATM kiosk in Chennai]
Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Admi Party leader, Arvind Kejriwal said that the government had no game plan which resulted in people struggling. No irony can be bigger than the Prime Minister taking the blessing of NCP leader, Sharad Pawar to fight the menace of black money, Kejriwal also said.
[Also Read: What is Currency Demonetization?]
BSP leader Mayawati said that Modi is losing the support of people. His rally at Ghazipur had a poor turn out because of his decision, she also said. On one hand he speaks of fighting corruption and on the other his volunteers brought people in trains for the rally without paying for the tickets, she also said.
OneIndia News
Digital Rupee in India: What is blockchain technology and how does it work?
Demonetised notes worth Rs 1.87 cr seized in Nagpur, 4 detained
India
oi-PTI
Nagpur, Nov 14: Four persons have been detained after cash worth Rs 1.87 crore in the denominations of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes was seized from an apartment here during a raid, police said today.
The Ambazari police conducted the raid at the apartment in Hill Top area here last night based on a tip off.
The money stashed in a travel bag was seized and taken to Ambazari police station along with the four persons, including a Chartered Accountant. The policemen then used a counting machine to ascertain the exact value of the cash seized.
As per preliminary report, 172 bundles of Rs 1,000 notes (total Rs 1.72 crore) and 31 bundles of Rs 500 notes (Rs 15.5 lakh), which have been demonetised, were seized.
The Income Tax Department was alerted about the seizure to initiate appropriate action, police said. The city police information centre confirmed the seizure and said the cash and custody of four persons was handed over to the Income Tax authorities.
PTI
Make in India: Not Spain, Gujarat facility to build C-295 for Indian Air Force now
Demonetised notes worth Rs 4.5 cr seized in Gujarat
India
oi-IANS
By Ians English
Ahmedabad, Nov 14 The demonetised 500- and 1,000-rupee currency notes worth Rs 4.45 crore have been seized from three separate places in Gujarat, the state police said on Monday.
Acting on a tip-off on Monday, the police intercepted a mini truck in Rajkot district and seized 10 bags full of demonetised high-value currency notes with a face value of Rs 2.5 crore from four persons.
The truck belonged to a local pump manufacturing company, which was allegedly taking the cash to its owner's residence at Menderna. The cash was handed over to the Income Tax Department for further investigation, the police said.
A team from Jetpur police station in the same district nabbed two persons from a car with cash worth Rs 50 lakh in old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes.
Such notes worth around Rs 1.45 crore were also seized by the police from two different places in Narmada and Vadodara districts on Sunday. Two persons were also arrested.
IANS
Five years of demonetisation: Notes in circulation on rise; so are digital payments
PM Modi should admit that demonetistion a failure: Owaisi on cash seizure in UP
Demonetisation - These trades are getting a cold response
India
oi-Jagriti
New Delhi, Nov 14: In a major attempt to tackle hoarding of black money, corruption and terror financing, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on November 8, announced that all Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 rupee notes would cease to be valid in all forms of transactions.
The surprise step announced by PM Modi forced people to rush to banks and ATMs for Rs 100 notes. The ban on higher banknotes has kept people away from shopping and watching movies in theatre.
It has badly affected the the big fat Indian wedding season .The wedding festivity has turned into nightmare for both traders and families.
The sudden move announced by government left people in lurch. Public have to wait in long queues in front of banks across the country to exchange their now invalid currency notes for new currency notes.
What is Currency Demonetization?
The demonetisation has also affected the famous donkey fair held annually on the banks of river Kshipra in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.
According to reports, demonetisation has also hit business of malls, multiplexes and pubs during the weekend as the sales dipped by 20%-50%. It has also forced many Bollywood filmmakers to postponed their movie release dates.
OneIndia News (With inputs from PTI)
Don't worry, don't panic, Arjun Ram Meghwal tells people in NE
India
oi-IANS
By Ians English
Shillong, Nov 14 Union Minister of State for Finance & Corporate Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal on Monday appealed to all citizens not to panic and have patience until normalisation of all modes of banking operations in the next few days.
"The government has taken many steps to address the issue. There is nothing to hurry about as sufficient time is there to deposit old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes in banks," he told journalists at the North Eastern Council headquarters in the Meghalaya capital town.
"We have asked all the public sector, rural and cooperative banks and even banking correspondents to take suitable actions. People need not worry and need not panic...the government is very much monitoring the situation."
Demonetisation is a very good move and people are largely happy, Meghwal added.
The minister further said that the Reserve Bank of India has already commenced issuance of new Rs 500 currency notes, while the government has instructed the banks to increase the daily withdrawal limit to Rs 2,500.
"Although people had to stand in long queues in the last couple of days, things are gradually easing out," he said.
To a query, Meghwal reiterated the central government's stand that demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes will help in curbing black money, terrorism and corruption.
IANS
What if Owaisi had? Muslim users on Twitter blast Kejriwal for asking for Hindu God images on currency notes
Why not Ambedkar's pic: Cong leader over Kejriwal's Lakshmi-Ganesh on currency notes remark
Fears of 'fake' new notes: Some quick ways to identify authenticity
India
oi-IANS
By Ians English
Mumbai, Nov 14: With several complaints and rumours about "fake new notes" of Rs 2,000 denomination, there is some wariness among the people as the notes come into wider circulation. Notes of Rs 500 denomination would be circulated soon by banks.
However, the new notes not only have several security features difficult to counterfeit, there are many ways the users can verify if the notes are genuine.
The touch and feel of the notes can be used for this. The seven "bleed lines" on the side of the Rs 2,000 notes, and five lines on Rs 500 notes are in raised printing or intaglio. The security thread in both the notes changes colour from green to blue at different angles.
Also, the numeral 500 and 2,000 on the right side also change colour when seen at different angles.
These can be easily identified by any user and are very hard to counterfeit, according to experts.
The new notes have changed colours. While the Rs 2,000 note's paper is in magenta, the Rs 500 note is in stone gray.
Read More: Cash Crisis: PM Narendra Modi holds meeting with senior ministers on demonetisation
The Rs 2,000 note is part of the Mahatma Gandhi (New) series, with a motif of Mars orbiter Mangalyaan on the reverse. Size is 66mm x 166 mm.
Other features of the new Rs 2,000 note are as follows:
Front side features
. See through register where the numeral 2,000 can be seen when note is held up against light
. Latent image of 2,000 can be seen when the note is tilted
. Colour shift security thread with 'RBI' and '2,000'
. Watermarks of Mahatma Gandhi and electrotype 2,000 numeral
. Number panel with numerals growing from small to big on top left and bottom right sides
Reverse side features
. Swachh Bharat logo
. Mangalayan motif and year of printing, 2016
The new Rs 500 note at 63mm x 150mm is smaller in size than previous one.
Front side features
. See through register in denomination numeral
. Latent image of the denomination numeral
. Orientation of Mahatma Gandhi's portrait changed
. Portrait and electrotype watermarks
. Number panel with numerals growing from small to big on top left and bottom right sides
. Features for visually impaired like circle with Rs 500 in raised print on the right
Reverse side features
. Swachh Bharat logo
. Red Fort image with the Indian flag
. Circle with Rs 500 in Devnagari on the right
IANS
Shallow water, rocky bottom may have led to so many deaths in Morbi tragedy
Gujarat government opens 52 generic medicine stores
India
oi-PTI
Ahmedabad, Nov 14 Gujarat Government today inaugurated 52 generic medicine stores across the state wherein medicines would be sold at a much cheaper rate than the market price.
One such store, named as 'Deendayal Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Store', was inaugurated today inside Civil Hospital premises here by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, an official release said.
Medicines sold in these stores will be 30 to 80 per cent cheaper than those being sold in the market, it said.
Around 1,500 to 2,000 life saving medicines will be sold from each of these stores. Rupani said such stores would give a huge relief to poor and middle class citizens.
The Chief Minister announced that his government would open 500 more stores in the next phase of expansion.
Rupani also launched a mobile application - 'G-Dava', which can be used by citizens to get details about various medicines sold in generic stores as well as in private pharmacies, said the release.
PTI
In ISIS territory, a Maharashtra based couple spotted
India
oi-Vicky
Bengaluru, Nov 14: The presence of a Maharashtra based couple in ISIS territory at Mosul has stunned investigators. The revelation made by an ISIS recruit from Tamil Nadu to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has left officials scrambling for missing person records.
Also read: Why Indian ISIS recruits spend more time praying than fighting?
The NIA has been questioning 31-year-old Subahani Haja Moideen for several days now. Moideen had returned from Iraq as he was unable to bear the bloodshed. However, upon his return to Tamil Nadu, he once again got in touch with handlers of the ISIS online and is alleged to have planned on setting up a module for the outfit in South India.
I saw a Maharashtra based couple
Moideen does not name the couple. He in fact says he met them very briefly at Mosul when he was there. While he says that he met the couple in ISIS territory, he, however, does not confirm if they were part of the outfit.
"They were in the same territory as I was," he said. "I, however, do not know their names," he also added. Officials in Maharashtra are now checking on details of missing persons to identify this couple. So far there has been no headway made in this regard, an official informed.
Several persons from Maharashtra had left the state in recent months to join the ISIS. In fact one of the four Maharashtra based youth, Areeb Majeed had joined the ISIS only to return after being told to clean toilets in Iraq.
OneIndia News
Tehran, Iran, November 14
By Mehdi Sepahvand - Trend:
The Islamic law allows Iran to cut down on the number of instances of capital punishment for crime, Minister of Justice Mostafa Pourmohammadi told Trend .
The Holy Quran says "Do not exceed norms in killing," he said, adding that "Punishment should be preemptive and proportionate to crime. You have to kill one who kills, and you have to obliterate the corrupt. But in its own right and to the minimum."
The minister further said that the record has shown that some capital punishments in Iran have not been effective.
"We will investigate to see where it is effective and what the outcome is," he said. "However, you cannot let go of one who has killed somebody if the next of kin of the murdered person does not forgive the murderer."
The Islamic law regards life as personal right, meaning if someone kills somebody, they have deprived them of their right and that the next of kin of the murdered person have a right to plea for the killing of the murderer, which is called Qisas in the Islamic jurisprudence.
The EU and Iran sat together in Brussels on November 9 for the first time since the conclusion of the nuclear deal to exchange ideas on human rights, one major sticking point in bilateral ties.
The human rights debate has increasingly emerged as an important component for stronger ties between the two sides.
In a recent document on the future of relations with Iran in the post-sanctions period, the EU has particularly expressed opposition to Irans use of the death penalty as punishment for drug traffickers.
The death punishment was also a major theme of a March report by UN special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Iran Ahmad Shaheed who called on Tehran to, consider a moratorium on the use of death penalty, among other things.
In October, Mohammad Javad Larijani, Irans Human Rights Council chief, said the judicial system "may" reconsider capital punishment for drug smugglers, limiting it to drug lords only.
The human rights debate has increasingly emerged as an important component for stronger ties between Iran and the EU.
Also, last week Hassan Norouzi, a spokesman with the Iranian Parliaments Legal and Judicial Committee, announced that a motion signed by 76 legislators would be brought to the parliament in an effort to rethink capital punishment for drug smugglers.
The motion, if passed, will rule out the capital punishment for first-time drug smugglers, many of whom are juveniles.
ISIS defies Quran again- Women promoted from sex slaves to suicide bombers
India
oi-Vicky
New Delhi, Nov 14: The ISIS wants more women recruits. The latest clarion call given by the ISIS is to hunt for women in large numbers.
However this time around their role would not be restricted to being sex robots or doing daily chores in ISIS camps.
Investigations and chatter that has been picked up from ISIS handlers suggest that the women are being used to carry out suicide strikes. The ISIS was reluctant at first to let women fight on the battle field as it is against the Quran. However there seems to be a change in strategy this time.
Let women fight:
The ISIS realises that the scrutiny is higher on the men. In the case of women the scrutiny is always lower and they are able to get past security checks easily. The ISIS has been facing heavy losses off late. With the ISIS losing ground in Iraq and Syria, it has decided to move to the heartland and carry out attacks in major cities across the world.
For this, the ISIS has decided to use women to strike. It has been making calls to its recruiters to find as many women as possible. Currently there are several women in the ISIS, but their jobs have been restricted to being either sex slaves or to carry out daily chores.
While the women in the existing camps too are being trained to carry out strikes, the ISIS is also looking for more recruits. Be it India or the rest of the world, the message is the same and that is to recruit as many women as possible. The existing male recruits too are being told to convince their wives, sisters or any woman they know to join the outfit.
OneIndia News
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Story first published: Monday, November 14, 2016, 11:23 [IST]
Is Chhattisgarh govt doing enough about Maoist menace?
The Magadh zone: Why naxals are desperate to revive it?
Security forces gun down Maoist commander
India
oi-PTI
Raipur, Nov 14: A Maoist commander was today gunned down in a gun battle with security forces in Chhattisgarh's insurgency-hit Sukma district, police said.
The skirmish took place in the wee hours between District Reserve Group (DRG) and rebels in the jungles of Dornapal Police Station limits, Sukma Additional Superintendent of Police (Anti-naxal operations), Jitendra Shukla, told PTI.
Acting on a specific input about the presence of a group of armed ultras in the forest between Arlampalli and Medwahi villages, around 500 kms from here, a squad of DRG was dispatched to the location late last night, he said.
When the DRG party reached the target area in the early hours, they came under heavy fire from Maoist which led to gun-battle between both the sides, the ASP said.
However, ultras soon fled from the spot. During the search, body of a naxal clad in 'uniform', a country made rifle, some 12 bore live ammunition, wire and other items were recovered from the spot, he said.
The killed Maoist has been identified as Vanjam Nanda, a very active Militia commander against whom at least 12 warrants issued by various courts in grave naxal offences were pending, the ASP said.
Nanda had served as the head of Janatana Sarkar group Maoists in Arlampalli, Medwahi, Tonguda and Toyapara villages of the region, he said.
PTI
How the flame of Azadi was kept ablaze by the tribal community: PM Modi explains
Modi invokes Nehru's legacy to target Congress
India
oi-Vikas
By Vikas
Ghazipur, Nov 14: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday invoked Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru's legacy to attack the Congress party, which has been relentlessly criticising the Centre over the demonetisation issue.
Speaking at the launch of a railway project in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, the Prime Minister said he would fulfill what Pandit Nehru wanted to do.
"Pandit Nehru, your family and party abuse me, but I am here on November 14, your birthday, to complete work left undone from your time," he said.
"In 1962, Ghazipur MP told Pandit Nehru about dire state of poor in Purvanchal, then Pandit ji formed a committee. After Pandit Nehru passed away, many PMs came and went but that committee report is still lost in files," he added.
Modi vowed to re-open those files, adding that it was something the Congress and successive Prime Minister's did not do.
"No one can pay such a tribute to Pandit Ji," he said.
Modi said his government was voted to power to free the nation of the black money menace.
"I will never let anyone loot the money that belongs to the poor of India...Yes, those against me are strong people. But, I will not be scared of them," he further said.
Modi further recalled the emergency imposed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in the 1970s and said the Congress turned the entire country into a jail for 19 months just to stay in power.
In a major attempt to tackle hoarding of black money, corruption and terror financing, Prime Minister Modi, on November 8, announced that all Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 rupee notes would cease to be valid in all forms of transactions.
The opposition has been attacking the government over the inconvinience faced by the people to exchange the banned currency notes from the banks.
Oneindia News
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Story first published: Monday, November 14, 2016, 15:51 [IST]
With Islamic radicalisation running so deep, why an NIA branch in every state matters
NIA finds address where Jihadi literature is published
India
oi-Vicky
New Delhi, Nov 14: The National Investigation Agency during the course of its probe into a terror strike in Jammu and Kashmir has found a booklet that was published at the Da-ul-Andalus or the the DuA.
The DuA is incidentally the publishing arm of the Jamaat-ud-Dawa, the charity wing of the dreaded Lashkar-e-Tayiba.
The DuA located at 4 Lake Road, Chauburji at Lahore is into publishing propaganda material for the Lashkar-e-Tayiba recruits. The unit is located near the Masjid al-Qudisa of which Lashkar-e-Tayiba chief Hafiz Saeed is the chief patron.
This is where the Jihadi literature is printed:
A booklet that was found on one of the Handwara attackers was traced to to the above mentioned printing press in Lahore. The booklet titled Hash-up-Muslim had verses and other inspirational material for the jihadis. Fahadullah, one of the jihadis who attempted a strike on a army camp at Handwara had with him this booklet.
The attempt to attack the Rashtriya Rifles camp at Langate in Handwara, Jammu and Kashmir was foiled. Investigations found that Fahadullah was taking orders from his handler, Saqi. He had with him the booklet which he was reading for inspiration. Apart from this, he had also scribbled codes on the booklet, investigations also found.
OneIndia News
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Story first published: Monday, November 14, 2016, 10:53 [IST]
Five years of demonetisation: Notes in circulation on rise; so are digital payments
PM Modi should admit that demonetistion a failure: Owaisi on cash seizure in UP
Demonetisation Horror: Sad, but true, people are dying, fighting, while waiting in bank, ATM queues
India
oi-Oneindia
By Oneindia Staff Writer
New Delhi, Nov 14: Surely it can't get any worse than this, as everyday people are dying due to exhaustion and heart attack during their never-ending wait in long queues in front of banks and ATMs across the country.
On Sunday, two elderly men died, one each in Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, due to suspected heart attack as they were waiting outside banks, say reports.
On Saturday, reports say three people--one from Mumbai and two from Kerala died while they were waiting in long queues outside banks.
If reports are to be believed, in the last five days around 14 people have died as they waited in front of banks and ATMs to exchange and withdraw money in the wake of the demonetisation of high value currency notes announced by the Narendra Modi-led government on November 8.
Demonetisation: India is going to face serious recession, predicts economist Prabhat Patnaik
The images on our television screens bring home the horror and struggle people are undergoing as they tried their best to get hold of some cash to conduct their day today activities.
Chaotic scenes outside banks and ATMs have become normal feature.
Scuffles among customers in banks and ATMs have also been reported from across the country.
In the midst of the ongoing cash crisis, Modi met his senior ministers past midnight today to discuss plans to avoid further trouble for the people.
The government also relaxed cash withdrawal limits including removing a per-day cap of Rs. 10,000, increasing the weekly limit to Rs. 24,000 from Rs. 20,000 and allowed exchange of bills over the counter at banks to reach Rs. 4,500 instead of Rs. 4,000.
From automated teller machines, individuals will now be able to take out up to Rs. 2,500 of cash per day instead of Rs. 2,000 per day, the finance ministry said in a statement.
Experts say the ongoing cash crisis is not going to end soon, especially after the PM on Sunday asked the nation to bear the brunt till December end.
OneIndia News
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PM Modi addresses rally in Ghazipur: Here are his top quotes
India
oi-Jagriti
Ghazipur, Nov 14: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed his first public rally in poll-bound Uttar Pradesh where he flagged off Shabd Bhedi Express between Ghazipur and Kolkata.
During his rally in Ghazipur he spoke about the demonetization.
Here are the top quotes delivered during the rally in Ghazipur
The inconvenience faced by the common man due to demonetisation will not go in vain.
The poor are sleeping in peace while the corrupt are taking sleeping pills.
Poor's hard earned money safe, but will not spare the corrupt: Modi
The banning of big currency notes was a major step against counterfeit currency which was feeding terrorism and Maoism.
My justice is a little 'karak', like my chai: Modi
"I am trained to make 'kadak' (strong) tea since my childhood and I know poor people like this type of tea, while the rich feel its bitterness," he said in reference to his beginning as a tea seller.
"I am the ninth Prime Minister from UP, and I have intentionally chosen this day for my address, because on Nehru's birthday, those who misled the country should know, that the recommendations that were made in 1962, have remained unfulfilled even in 2016," Modi said addressing a rally here.
I will not spare those with unaccounted Rs 2.5 crore cash, and those who have stashed money under the bed."
OneIndia News
How the flame of Azadi was kept ablaze by the tribal community: PM Modi explains
Cash Crisis: PM Narendra Modi holds meeting with senior ministers on demonetisation
India
oi-PTI
New Delhi, Nov 14: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with senior ministers past midnight today to review demonetisation and its impact.
The meeting at Prime Minister's residence was attended by Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, I&B Minister Venkaiah Naidu, Power, Coal and Mines Minister Piyush Goyal and top officials of the Finance ministry.
The meeting came amid continuing chaos and growing public anger across the country over limited cash availability following the surprise demonetisation of two higher value currency notes by Modi.
There was little respite for cash-starved people queueing up outside banks and ATMs yesterday, with branches witnessing unprecedented rush since early morning and leading to arguments and scuffles.
Earlier in the evening, after a review by Finance ministry, the limit of old and now defunct Rs 500 and Rs 1000 rupee notes that can be exchanged for freshly minted Rs 2000 and new Rs 500 notes was increased from Rs 4000 to Rs 4500 per day.
Cash withdrawal limit at ATMs was hiked to Rs 2,500 from Rs 2,000 a day. The weekly limit of Rs 20,000 for withdrawal from bank counters has been increased to Rs 24,000.
The maximum limit of Rs 10,000 per day on such withdrawals has been removed, the ministry said in a statement.
PTI
How the flame of Azadi was kept ablaze by the tribal community: PM Modi explains
President, PM greet the nation on Guru Nanak Jayanti
India
oi-PTI
New Delhi, Nov 14: President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi today extended their greetings to the nation on the occasion of birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji.
Asserting that Guru's universal vision and humanism have been inspiration for all, President asked people to strengthen the bonds of togetherness.
"Universal vision & humanism of Guru Nanak Devji have been an inspiration to people everywhere. Let us all unite to bring happiness in the lives of the suffering & strive for the betterment of humanity," he said.
Mukherjee asked all to endeavour to follow the Guru's profound teachings and work to strengthen the bonds of togetherness. In a series of tweets, the President conveyed wishes to fellow citizens in India and abroad on the Guru's birth anniversary.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also greeted everyone, on the auspicious occasion of Gurupurab. "Gurupurab wishes to everyone. The inspiring teachings of the venerable Guru Nanak guide us in creating a prosperous and harmonious society", the Prime Minister said.
PTI
At least 9 students killed after boat capsizes in Cambodia river
As the countdown clock struck zero, rocket of Aakash BYJUS took off from Bandra Bandstand
School exams conducted smoothly after months of Kashmir unrest
India
oi-IANS
By Ians English
Srinagar, Nov 14 Tens of thousands of students sat for their Class 12 annual exams on Monday after four months of unrest during which schools remained shut across the Kashmir Valley.
Officials said nearly 95 per cent of 45,000 students appeared on the first day of the examinations across 484 centres in the valley.
"The Class 12 examinations were conducted smoothly," Zahoor Ahmad Chatt, Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (BOSE), told IANS here.
"The percentage of students taking this exam is normal given the averages over the last many years. There are no reports of any untoward incident from anywhere during the conduct of the exams."
Authorities made elaborate arrangements of security at all these exam centres where police and paramilitary security forces were deployed in strength.
Parents ferried children to the exam centres using different modes of private transport as a separatist-sponsored shutdown continued.
Examination of Class 10 are to begin on Tuesday for which some 55,000 students have been enrolled.
Chatt said 98 per cent of Class 10 students have already taken their admit cards.
Since all educational institutions, including schools, have remained closed since July 9, the authorities decided to allow a 50 per cent cut in the syllabus for those students willing to take the exams.
IANS
Senior judge stays away as SC collegium finalises names of judges
India
oi-Vicky
New Delhi, Nov 14: Justice J Chelameswar stayed away from the recent collegium meeting held to finalise the names of judges to be elevated to the Supreme Court of India. Justice Chelameswar who is one of the five judges in the Supreme Court collegium stayed away from the meeting.
The names of 7 High Court Chief Justices which were finalised by the collegium were later circulated to Justice Chelameswar. It is learnt that Chief Justice of India, TS Thakur tried to convince Justice Chelameswar to attend the meet, but that exercise went in vain.
Justice Chelameswar objects
The collegium is understood to have favoured the elevation of the following Chief Justices of the High Courts. Justice Manjula Chellur (Bombay), Justice Deepak Gupta (Chattisgarh), Justice N N Paul Vasanthkumar (J&K), Justice Subhash Reddy (Gujarat), Justice Navin Sinha (Rajasthan), Justice Ahmed Mir (Himachal Pradesh), K M Joseph (Uttarakhand).
These names were circulated to Justice Chelameswar. He is understood to have objected to one of the names. He even conveyed the same in writing to the collegium. The collegium will have to take a final call before sending the names to the union government for clearance.
It may be recalled that in the National Judicial Appointments Commission matter, Justice Chelameswar was the lone dissenting member on the Bench. The Supreme Court had strict down the NJAC act while upholding the process of appointing judges to the higher judiciary through the collegium system.
OneIndia News
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Story first published: Monday, November 14, 2016, 9:42 [IST]
The EU foreign minsters are ready to work now with the new US administration under Donald Trump from from the very first days of its functioning, EU Foreign Policy Chief Federica Mogherini said, Sputnik reported.
An informal meeting of the European Union's Foreign Ministers took place in Brussels on Sunday evening. The ministers discussed a wide range of issues, with a particular emphasis on the change of US foreign policy under Trump.
"We have decided together to engage with the incoming administration, even from these very first weeks of transition, we will continue to work day and night with the current administration, but also preparing the ground for the change of administration in January, and obviously, will be glad not only to visit Washington soon, but also invite the future Secretary of State," Mogherini told reporters following the meeting.
She said that the main issues in the EU-US agenda would be climate change, nuclear non-proliferation, Iran nuclear deal, trade and "all the crises we have around us."
"We had a very fruitful, good meeting with the [EU] foreign ministers and I can say there is unity among all the 28 [EU member states] on first of all to continue working on strength of the Trans-Atlantic relation the European Union and the United States are partners, and will continue to be partners to what concerns us," the diplomat said.
Trump's inauguration will be held on January 20, 2017.
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Prayers for peace and candles in UK Parliament to celebrate Diwali
Thousands throng gurdwaras to mark Gurpurab
India
oi-IANS
By Ians English
Chandigarh, Nov 14 Thousands of devotees thronged gurdwaras across Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh on Monday to offer prayers on the occasion of 'Gurpurab' - the birth anniversary of the first Sikh guru, Nanak Dev.
The holiest of Sikh shrines 'Harmandar Sahib', popularly known as the Golden Temple, in Amritsar and other gurdwaras elsewhere saw religious fervour on the occasion of 'Gurpurab'.
Thousands of people, from various faiths, reached the Golden Temple complex early on Monday morning to offer prayers marking the birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism.
The shrine complex was decorated with lighting. Hymns were rendered at the holy shrine and hundreds of other gurdwaras across the region to mark the occasion.
Tight security arrangements were made around all leading Sikh shrines in Punjab.
At other gurdwaras in cities, towns and villages, hundreds of people were seen coming to offer prayers.
'Langars' (community kitchen), were arranged at most gurdwaras.
Over 2,000 devotees, mostly Sikhs, went to neighbouring Pakistan to celebrate 'Gurpurab' at Nankana Sahib, 100 km from Lahore, at the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev, who was born there in 1469.
Though around 3,000 visas were issued by the Pakistan embassy to devotees to visit the shrine, about 1,000 people opted out following recent tension between the countries and currency crunch due to demonetisation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to micro-blogging site Twitter to wish people on the occasion of Gurpurab.
Gurupurab wishes to everyone. The inspiring teachings of the venerable Guru Nanak guide us in creating a prosperous & harmonious society. Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) 14 November 2016
Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal also greeted people on the occasion of 'Gurpurab' and urged them to follow the Guru's teachings and maintain peace and harmony.
(With IANS inputs)
With just Rs 1,000 as monthly pension, plight of retired HMT employees needs to be heard
Trade unions push for survival of HMT Machine Tools
India
oi-PTI
Hyderabad, Nov 14 The National Confederation of HMT Unions (NCHU) today urged the management of HMT to convene a meeting to chalk out a plan to save HMT Machine Tools from the threat of closure.
A meeting of NCHU was held here under the Chairmanship of TRS MP B Vinod Kumar and trade union representatives from various HMT Machine Tools facilities were present on the occasion, a release from HMT Employees Union Telangana said.
The NCHU unanimously resolved that an approach paper should be prepared at the trade union level for the survival of HMT Machine Tools, incorporating major factors like necessity of professional management, short and long term vision to suggest plans taking into consideration the ground realities.
This approach paper would be presented to the Centre for its favourable consideration, it said. "The NCHU unanimously resolved to request Vinod Kumar, MP, to guide and lead trade unions in an endeavour to save HMT Machine Tools Ltd in his capacity as Chief Patron of NCHU," the release added.
PTI
Delhi-NCR likely to choke in the coming days
Two held in Punjab with fake Rs 2,000 notes
India
oi-IANS
By Ians English
Chandigarh, Nov 14 Within days of issuance of Rs 2,000 denomination notes, two men were arrested in Tarn Taran district of Punjab, bordering Pakistan, on charge of printing colour copies of the new currency notes.
Harjinder Singh and Sandeep, along with two others, were printing the new Rs 2,000 notes in Bhikhiwind village, 40 km from Amritsar, to circulate these in the market and make a fast buck, the Punjab Police said.
The government had on November 10 issued the new notes of Rs 2,000 denomination in the wake of November 8 demonetisation of the Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes.
"Since most people have not seen the Rs 2,000 notes till now, the accused wanted to take advantage of the situation," a police officer said.
The arrested men had scanned the new notes to obtain their colour prints, police official Gurdeep Singh said.
The police seized fake currency notes, printer, scanner and computer of the accused.
"A case of counterfeiting currency has been registered against them. Further investigations and raids are in progress and more arrests are likely soon," the police officer said.
IANS
UK PM Liz Truss resigns after 45 days in office, successor to be elected next week
Will Modi call BJP ally Shiv Sena corrupt: Nirupam
India
oi-PTI
Mumbai, Nov 14: Targeting Narendra Modi for branding Opposition parties, who criticised the demonetisation, as "corrupt", Mumbai Congress President Sanjay Nirupam today sought to know if the Prime Minister will apply the same yardstick for BJP's ally Shiv Sena.
Notwithstanding Modi's emotional appeal to people to co-operate with him to weed out black money, Sena in an editorial in mouthpiece "Saamna" today described the demonetisation as "demonic and unsystematic" that has led to "financial anarchy" in the country.
Yuva Sena chief Aaditya Thackeray also said while the government's intention behind demonetising the currency may be right, but it has hit the "wrong target".
"Will Prime Minister Modi call his party's long time ally as corrupt and hoarder of black money. BJP should clarify," Nirupam told PTI. The Mumbai Congress chief charged that the demonetisation move was a "poorly-managed" move.
Cash Crisis: PM Narendra Modi holds meeting with senior ministers on demonetisation
"When the government says 86 per cent of the currency is in Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, how can that much amount of money be scrapped in four hours time without making available adequate lower denomination currency," he asked.
Nirupam claimed that the banking system has collapsed and ATMs were not functioning. The Centre never anticipated what effect, the decision will have on the common man, he said.
PTI
Indian-origin Sikh woman who wears turban is new councillor of Canadian city Brampton
Woman strips in protest against demonetisation
India
oi-Vikas
By Vikas
New Delhi, Nov 14: Exasperated by long queues outside ATMs and banks, a woman stripped in the National Capital to mark her dissent against the scrapping of high value currency notes by the government, said reports.
The woman removed her shirt in protest against the long queues outside ATMs in Delhi's Mayur Vihar area on Sunday, reported India.com.
Although she covered herself up after the police intervention, she was taken to Ghazipur police station for brief interrogation.
Meanwhile, long queues were seen outside banks and ATMs across the nation for the fifth consecutive day today.
People faced a great deal of inconvenience as several ATMs went dry due to cash crunch.
In a major attempt to tackle hoarding of black money, corruption and terror financing, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on November 8, announced that all Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 rupee notes would cease to be valid in all forms of transactions.
Oneindia News
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Story first published: Monday, November 14, 2016, 17:45 [IST]
There is no 'one-size-fits-all' to curb poverty
Thief calls cops for help after being caught by mob
Cyclone Sitrang heading towards Bangladesh; Heavy rains likely to pound West Bengal, Odisha and NE
Bangladesh announces bounty for nabbing attackers on minorities
International
oi-IANS
By Ians English
Dhaka, Nov 14 Bangladesh on Monday announced a cash reward of 100,000 taka ($1,265) to anyone giving information leading to the arrest of those who attacked Hindu minority people and their properties in Brahmanbaria district last month.
Police in Brahmanbaria made the announcement through loud speakers in the violence-ridden Hindu main areas of the district.
A violent mob vandalised dozens of Hindu temples and homes over an alleged blasphemy on October 30, Xinhua news agency reported.
Bangladeshi authorities said the mob attack in the district was prompted by allegations that a youth of the Hindu colony through a Facebook post did something disrespectful about one of Islam's most sacred places.
The post from the account of Rasraj Das showed a photo of Hindu God Shiva placed on the photo of Kaaba, the most sacred and holiest place in Islam, which is located in the Muslim holiest city of Makkah in Saudi Arabia.
The Hindu youth later denied posting it.
IANS
Donald Trump congratulated by Republicans who 'rejected' him
International
oi-IANS
By Ians English
Washington, Nov 14: US President-elect Donald Trump has received congratulatory phone calls from leading Republicans who had previously withheld support or denounced the business mogul's run for the country's highest office.
Trump aide Kellyanne Conway said on Sunday the president-elect has spoken with his three former rivals for the GOP nomination -- Ohio Governor John Kasich, Carly Fiorina and former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, ABC News reported.
Trump said he also spoke to former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, the 2012 GOP nominee for president, as well as former Presidents George W. Bush and George H.W. Bush.
Also read: Donald Trump names White House chief of staff, chief strategist
Jeb Bush had been one of Trump's most fervent critics but Conway said that in the phone call, Bush "was incredibly gracious, congratulating Trump and his victory and wishing him well as president".
Trump has spent his weekend in Trump Tower in New York City preparing to make some of his most critical staffing decisions as president-elect.
IANS
Indo-Israel friendship: President Reuven Rivlin India visit to boost bilateral partnership
International
oi-PTI
Jerusalem, Nov 14: Terming India as a "close friend", Israel President Reuven Rivlin has left for New Delhi on a six-day visit to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries that he said were places of "innovation and inspiration".
Rivlin, who is arriving with a large delegation of businessmen and academics, will join President Pranab Mukherjee in opening an agro-tech conference in Chandigarh, hold meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and visit several sites of cooperation and joint projects between the two countries.
He will also pay his respects at the sites of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks and lay wreaths on the tomb of Mahatma Gandhi and at the memorial for Indian soldiers who fell in the WWI in combat in Israel and the Middle East.
Six Jews were killed at the Mumbai Chabad house during the Mumbai terror attacks which left more than 166 dead.
Rivlin, who will be accompanied on the trip by his wife, will also hold meetings with senior Indian officials and with leaders of the Jewish community.
"I am departing now on an important visit to India, an important ally and close friend of Israel, a state with whom we have much in common," Rivlin said just before leaving for New Delhi yesterday.
"Israel and India are both countries of innovation and of inspiration. Countries that have ancient traditions, but have built strong and thriving hi-tech economies, and now celebrate 25 years of diplomatic relations. This visit is a sign of the strong relations and friendship between our peoples, and I hope will plant the seeds for that friendship to grow closer and closer," he said.
The academic delegation accompanying Rivlin includes Presidents and senior representatives of 13 Israeli academic institutions who are expected to sign 15 separate agreements between Israeli and Indian educational institutions.
"The issue of international cooperation in higher education and the expansion of academic ties between Israel and the world - in particular with India - is one of the central aims of the multi-year plan for higher education in Israel," said Yaffa Zilbershats, head the Council for Higher Education's budget committee.
The expansion of academic ties would include student exchanges, joint research projects and the founding of inter-institutional fora to promote academic cooperation between Israeli and India universities and colleges, he noted.
Rivlin, in the past, has complimented the Indian students in Israel, saying "they are among the best" of the lot.
"India represents a great challenge for Israeli manufacturers and this delegation will afford the opportunity to strengthen cooperation and partnership with their Indian counterparts," said Shraga Brosh, President of Manufacturers Association of Israel, who is heading the business delegation.
PTI
According to reports a builder and diamond merchant from Surat , has surrendered cash of Rs. 6000 crore. He is one of the richest builders and diamond merchant of India. He has also been in news various times for his charity works and expensive gifts to all his employees every year.
Luiz Ignacio Lula da Silva's supporters are celebrating his narrow election victory in Brazil but there is tension in the air over..
euronews (in English) 31 Oct 2022
Putin and Merkel discussed in a phone call on Monday the implementation of the Minsk peace accords, Sputnik reported.
"During the exchange of opinions on the Ukrainian crisis, the leaders underlined the importance of further joint efforts aimed at the implementation of the Minsk agreements, including in light of the Normandy Four summit in Berlin on October 19," the press service said in a statement.
"In this regard, Putin and Merkel expressed concern over continuing violations of the 'silence regime' in Donbass," the statement said.
by Graham Pierrepoint
ARRIVAL
IMDb
Dir: Denis Villenueve
Starring Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, Forest Whitaker, Michael Stuhlbarg, Tzi Ma
5 STARS (out of 5)
The most enjoyable movies, for me at least, are the ones that stay with you the ones that reverberate on you for days afterwards, the ones which make you feel like the journey was worth it. Some movies are built to be funny, some are built to simply pass the time others try to send a message, while others even further like to play with the audience. Whatever any of us went in expecting from Arrival this November, we certainly didnt get it. Arrival combines the latter two types of movie I mentioned and does so better than any film Ive watched so far this year.
Amy Adams is language expert Dr Louise Banks a brilliant linguist and, as we are shown, someone with an incredible emotional weight around her neck and she finds herself drafted in to help the US military with a curious occurrence. Out of nowhere, twelve colossal black discs have descended to just above the Earths surface, scattered around the globe, and each disc (or shell, as they are termed) are to be investigated by the governing powers whose backyards have been disturbed. Dr Banks joins with scientist Dr Ian Donnelly (Renner) and Colonel Weber (Whitaker) to venture into a shell which has appeared in Montana, US in an effort to try and find out exactly why the objects have materialised, and why the life forms controlling the crafts have arrived. From here, as the aliens language is studied and decoded, an international game of chess over what to do with the shells breaks out with China and Russia looking likely to take offensive action. In time, Banks discovers more about the shells than she had bargained for, propelling towards a deeply affecting climax.
Anyone who reads my reviews for One News Page regularly will know that I dont hand out five star reviews willy-nilly. The only other movie this year to have received the accolade was the incredible Kubo and The Two Strings (which I would still recommend animation fans purchase or on DVD or Blu Ray in the new year) a film which haunted me for a long time after viewing, one which hit so many levels so precisely and so beautifully that anything less than a full score seemed harsh. With Arrival, I too feel I cannot give anything below a five star rating for this is less the film I was expecting about an alien invasion and the weird reasons they may have come to Earth, but far, far more in the direction of a deeply haunting and subtly affecting movie which will leave an imprint upon me for a long time to come.
This movie is impeccably directed. Denis Villenueve has proven himself to be a master craftsman, having already chaired the hugely well-received Sicario and Prisoners, both of which have become cult hits in their own right and the most striking elements of Arrival on first notice are his directorial choices. The situations and characters feel natural, unfiltered. Theres no hammy lines (no matter how the trailer may put things across), no blatant Hollywood-style filibusters the use of news reports throughout the movie is extremely well-done, and Adams is the perfect lead for this film. Shes haunted, shes brilliant, shes desperate for answers.
Arrival is based on Ted Chiangs novella The Story of Your Life, and the same storytelling choices in his work are ably translated over to the big screen. Were given snippets of Banks life with her daughter before she tragically died, and how it affected her marriage through flashbacks and intercut scenes. The novella does the same. Banks story and the investigation into the shells sew into one another as the movie continues. Some flashbacks can seem clunky, but here, theyre absolutely necessary.
This is a movie thats mainly centered around the topic of language, and perhaps puts forward the thought that we should consider talking or communicating with each other before picking up weapons or considering offensive action. This message could have been handled with sledgehammer subtlety elsewhere, but the slow, creeping pacing of Arrival builds palpable, genuinely terrifying tension from start to finish. There is building terror in the crew first ascending the goliath shell in Montana. There is terror in the slow, satisfying reveal of the aliens. There is tension in the final act, where decisions need to be made on whether to flee, or to fight. The sound editing and soundtrack is incredible, otherworldly, horrifying. Packaged with sweeping camera direction, cautious pacing and otherworldly beings that are never too revealed nor too shrouded (anyone expecting Cloverfield levels of alien hiding can rest easy), Arrival is surprisingly disturbing both in the creatures and the situation, and the way in which some human beings react. The ending is subtly horrifying in a manner which I really dont think has been paralleled for a long time.
Arrival - Official Trailer (Paramount Pictures)
This is an absolutely beautiful movie that is best enjoyed on the big screen while it lasts, and boasts a very capable cast but for me, the lasting, haunting moments lie elsewhere in the script - and Im holding back on spoiling the revelations that spill from the final act but I will address them carefully to preserve their effect.
The final few scenes of this movie absolutely destroy everything you thought you knew about it for the prior hour and forty-five minutes. There is a huge twist that subtly and slowly creeps into view that hammers in a nail of realisation right when you least expect it. It takes you back to earlier moments in the story, to allow you to realise that all the pieces to the puzzle were already there, right in front of you. It takes an already disquieting and looming story and renders it nothing short of devastating it strides firmly into fantasy territory, naturally, but it does so in such a tragic and haunting way that you cant quite believe what youve seen.
Allow me to put it another way. While watching this movie, impressed by its visuals and tension, I grew concerned with some of its more contrived moments to the point where it began to niggle. These moments felt more and more out of place and Im certainly not telling you which moments I mean, in order to preserve the twists but then the final revelations came. All of the contrivances and moments I internally sneered at were made hugely, desperately relevant. I was forced to reconsider what I had watched, far too late to do anything about it. Im normally au fait with spotting twists but here, I was given a wake-up call.
There are some elements that arent explicitly explained, but anyone paying close attention to all the important details will be able to piece together the puzzle soon enough trust me, this is not a Cloverfield scenario but it must be advised that Arrival is not your typical alien invasion movie. I, like many people, went in looking forward to why aliens were there at all I wanted to see these mysterious beings and to know all as do the characters. However, while the questions are answered subtly I was completely unprepared for the tension, the direction choices, the soundtrack, the visuals, the acting and, best of all, the incredible twists.
On paper, Arrival is undoubtedly a five-star movie, a strong contender for my favourite film of 2016 (lets see how the next few weeks go) and while it will surely stay with me for some time yet, its not a movie I can easily watch again tomorrow. In time, Ill watch it again if only to share it with as many people as I possibly can. If youre interested in seeing this movie, go in blind and youll be very pleasantly surprised.
Ankara, Turkey, Nov. 14
By Atilla Caner Trend:
The European Union left Turkey alone in its fight against terrorism, Turkeys Deputy Prime Minister Numan Kurtulmus said Nov. 14, following the meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers.
Fighting terrorism is one of Ankaras priorities, and Turkey will continue to do so against all terrorist groups, according to Kurtulmus.
The deputy prime minister has earlier said that Turkeys priorities include complete termination of militants of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) and the Islamic State (aka IS, ISIL, ISIS or Daesh) terrorist groups, as well as fight against the Fethullah Gulen movement.
The conflict between Turkey and the PKK, which demands the creation of an independent Kurdish state, has continued for more than 30 years and has claimed more than 40,000 lives.
The UN and the European Union list the PKK as a terrorist organization.
Rurik Jutting Appears In Court Charged With Two Counts Of Murder (Photo : Getty Images)
After British banker Rurik Jutting was convicted by a Hong Kong court for the brutal murder of two women, a professor raised the question of the role of a persons genetic makeup in committing such heinous crimes. Jutting was sentenced for the death of Summarti Ningsih and Seneng Mujiasih, poor Indonesian women whom he first made into sex slaves until he sliced their throats.
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Jutting, a British expat, picked up the two women in Wan Chai, a place in Hong Kong known for its seedy establishments. He was an executive at the Bank of America Merrill Lynch and a bright man. However, because of Juttings abuse of drug and alcohol, he indulged in a three-day spree that ended with the death of the two migrants, Shanghaiist reported.
Tim Owen, Juttings lawyer, told the court of the former bankers own gruesome childhood experiences to explain his gory action. The court dismissed Owens defense and sentenced the British banker Rurik Jutting to a life sentence for the death of the two women. He is now serving the sentence at Stanley Prison, a maximum security prison in Hong Kong.
Paul Stapleton, associate professor at Hong Kongs Education University, in an article in South China Morning Post, agreed that Juttings lifetime prison term is appropriate for the crime he committed. But he noted that for heinous crimes, the psychopath may have genetic propensity to commit wrongdoing.
Although Stapleton admitted that using genetic propensity as an excuse to shirk away from criminal liability is doubted by many, he pointed to recent research findings that provide evidence of some inborn biological markers linked with criminality.
One marker is a ring finger likely longer than the index finger due to differences in testosterone exposure levels in the womb. The ring-index finger ratio had been linked to male aggressiveness, sensation seeking and impulsiveness.
Another marker is the abnormal volume of the heads prefrontal cortex the part of the brain when rational decision-making is made which is linked to memories and emotions. For many psychopaths, those two markers impair a persons ability to regulate emotions and reach rational decisions, Stapleton cited Adrian Raine, a neurocriminologist who wrote the book The Anatomy of Violence.
Bulgaria, officially the Republic of Bulgaria, is a country in Southeast Europe. It is situated on the eastern flank of the Balkans, and is bordered by Romania to the north, Serbia and North Macedonia to the west, Greece and Turkey to the south, and the Black Sea to the east. Bulgaria covers a territory of 110,994 square kilometres (42,855 sq mi), and is the sixteenth-largest country in Europe. Sofia is the nation's capital and largest city; other major cities are Plovdiv, Varna and Burgas.
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Yggdrasil Gaming Continues its 2016 Rise with Strong Third Quarter
Published November 14, 2016 by Mike P
Yggdrasil Gaming marched ahead during the third quarter and continued its excellent 2016. Get a breakdown of all the key figures and innovations here.
Yggdrasil Gaming has revealed a long list of highlights in its financial reporting for quarter three (Q3), which ended on 30 September 2016. In recent months, the software developer has been extremely active in releasing new video slots such as Double Dragons and Legend of the White Snake Lady, while existing game Joker Millions paid out the companys highest-ever jackpot at 2.9 million.
299% Revenue Increase
The headline statistic is that Yggdrasil generated revenue of SEK21 million [2.12 million] during Q3 2016, which represents an impressive 299% increase on Q3 2015. Another key finding from the revenue is that mobile gaming accounted for 54% of the quarterly takings, and this demonstrates how mobile is now the preferred option for many players.
Continuing with the topic of players, Yggdrasil had more positive news to share. Compared to Q3 2015, the developer managed to increase its player base by a staggering 427% to reach 438 million. And what aided that growth was Yggdrasils ability to strike new licensing agreements with leading gaming operators.
Yggdrasils Expansion Efforts
Moving forward, it appears Yggdrasil will have more opportunities for growth, having targeted Romania as part of its expansion efforts. After obtaining two remote gaming licences, Yggdrasil will now be permitted by the Romanian regulator to offers its igaming software in the country.
Yggdrasil also used its financial reveal as an opportunity to share new innovations. First up is BRAG, which is a tool that lets players share their wins via social media. And the next is White Label Studios, a project where Yggdrasil will combine with operators to create new slot game content, starting in summer 2017.
For the future, Yggdrasil Gaming CEO Fredrik Elmqvist revealed that the company would aim for long-term growth, but that expansion efforts would be rapid. In Q4 2016, the company expects for the positive results to keep coming.
By Dave Lindorff
Trump plans to undo most of Obama's legacy, but there are things Obama could do that couldn't be undone
(Image by ThisCantBeHappening!) Details DMCA
There is a lot of talk going on among the pundits about how President Obama is leaving no enduring legacy -- that his progressive actions as president, few and small that they may have been, were written in the sand of executive orders, which can and likely will be erased within days of Donald Trump's inauguration.
In fact though, while there is truth to that observation, there is a legacy of President Obama that will last. It's just that it's a terrible one: His failure to prosecute and put an end to the many crimes and constitutional violations of the prior George W. Bush/Dick Cheney administration, like torture, the horrific and unconstitutional war-crime prison in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba; the Tuesday morning White House drone murder-planning sessions (which he actually institutionalized); the continuation of a program of mass incarceration (mostly of males of color); the expansion of the NSA's domestic and international surveillance program, aimed at monitoring all electronic communications domestically and eventually globally; his signing instead of vetoing of a renewal of the wretched USA PATRIOT Act and related constitutional atrocities; and of course the decision to authorize a trillion-dollar upgrade of the US nuclear force, including the development of "useable" tactical nukes, coupled with the emplacement of nuclear missiles along Russia's western border. I could go on, but in the interest of brevity I'll let the reader finish this list of horrors.
It's too late now to undo most of this legacy of horrors, but there are still some things that our ill-deserving Nobel Peace Prize Laureate president could yet do as a lame-duck and largely powerless president before Trump's move into the White House to at least do penance for his failures, and to perhaps salvage some measure of integrity as a legacy. Here's my list:
1. At this point, with Trump waiting in the wings ready to reverse them, any new executive orders would be a waste of time, without even any symbolic value. But there is one power conferred specifically in the Constitution which Obama owns until the minute Trump finishes taking the presidential oath, and that is the power to commute sentences and to pardon. To date, Obama has been one of the most stingy presidents in history in his application of this awesome power. He should start wielding it like a saber, cutting the chains of all those languishing in jails around the country who are non-violent offenders, primarily for possession of drugs, all those sentenced to lengthy terms or to life in prison for minor crimes because of harsh mandatory sentencing guidelines and especially "three-strikes" laws, all those sentenced to life in prison for crimes they committed as minors or even young kids, all those sentenced to death in a system that we all, including this president, know were tried, conficted and sentenced by a wholly unfair and corrupted judicial system that excludes from capital juries anyone who opposes the death penalty, all those young people in juvenile detention who were sentenced without a lawyer, and all those jailed because of unpaid debts. Obama could go further: He could pardon all those in prison who have served, say, five years of their sentence and who are over 60, or perhaps 50 years old. Statistics show that older people do not commit much violent crimes. If rehabilitation is to mean anything, then keeping such older prisoners in jail any longer is simply a self-destructive, incredibly costly act of national vengeance, not intelligent and humane justice.
2. While he's pardoning people, the president, who set a new low in government openness by prosecuting the most whistleblowers of any president in history, should acknowledge his error and pardon all of those brave people who have tried to warn about government abuse and corruption, starting with Edward Snowden and Julian Assange, both of whom currently face espionage charges if they were to leave their respective places of asylum, Russia and the London Ecuador Embassy, and Chelsea Manning, serving hard time at Leavenworth for the "crime" of courageously exposing the US military's war crimes in Iraq. Those whom he prosecuted who have served their sentences should be retroactively pardoned so their records are cleared.
3 The president should use his power as president and commander in chief to close down the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base's obscene extrajudicial military prison. Congress acted to prevent such a thing by insisting the president would have to review each case individually, but there is no definition of what such a review must be comprised of. He should simply take the time to look at each case, and then render his decision -- pardon or commuted sentence, which latter option could be a sentence to Leavenworth or some other such escape-proof facility, where each still-incarcerated inmate would then be afforded a timely civil trial with full Constitutional rights.
4. Obama should immediately, again acting as commander-in-chief, order the US Army Corps of Engineers to shut down further work on the Dakota Access Pipeline and to deny any permit for crossing the Missouri River anywhere near the Standing Rock Sioux reservation or Sioux sacred lands (much of which was stolen by various treaty violations over the years). He should dispatch federalized US troops to the scene with orders to prevent further police actions by the local Sheriff or other police authorities in North Dakota against Sioux "water protectors" and their backers.
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Jack Ma: New US President Has to Work with China to Avoid Disaster
New U.S. President Donald Trump could inadvertently start a trade war with China with his policies. (Photo : Getty Images)
The 45th U.S. President Donald Trump was warned by Alibaba's Jack Ma to work with China and not against it.
The founder and CEO of Alibaba said that contrary to Donald Trump's victory speech, the new president should work for a "healthy and positive relationship."
Ma added, "But if they don't work with each other it's going to be [a] disaster."
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"I don't fear [a Trump presidency], I think a healthy and positive China-U.S. relationship is so critical," he said.
Trump said that he will state that China is a currency manipulator and will impose punitive tariffs on China's exports to the U.S.
However, Ma is optimistic that that Trump will not carry through with the threats he made against China. The tycoon said that that the U.S. President will realize that his campaign rhetoric is not all applicable in real life.
"Every time they talk about it. But I think when they become president, when he has that burden . . . the world is not as simple as he thought," he said.
Ma also stated, "He's a smart person, he will adjust. He will never neglect the relationship between China and America."
Donald Trump, the Hollywood star, and the newly elected president, became known for his anti-China sentiments. Ma thinks that Trump should realize that there are a lot of cultural differences between China and the U.S.
Some analysts from China believe that many still favor Trump over Clinton.
"Trump is not going to be as harsh on human rights as Hillary Clinton would have been," said Zhang Ming, a professor at the Institute of Political Studies at Renmin University in Beijing.
Many were shocked this summer when Bolivia rejected Bill Gates' and Heifer International's donation of thousands of live chickens to address "hunger." Anyone who's "living in extreme poverty is better off if they have chickens," wrote Gates. "Chickens are small and stay close to home" and can help feed children in poor families he said.
Bolivia does not want gift chickens
(Image by Martha Rosenberg) Details DMCA
Ce'sar Cocarico, Bolivia's minister of land and rural development however, was offended by the offer which betrayed ignorance about the country and its agriculture and was viewed as patronizing.
Every year, Heifer International, an Arkansas-based live animal charity, mails its saccharine Christmas catalogue to drum up donations. The photos of animals and children are cute--last year they even put animals in Christmas sweaters--but there is little proof live animal gifts work says charity examiner GiveWell.
"Are there systems in place to teach people to care for their new animals?" asks the Verge. "Who determines who gets a chicken and who doesn't, and will that distribution foster ill will? How would introducing livestock to a community or region impact existing economies? And, most importantly, do the recipients even want the gift?"
The Verge is right. How are people who are already poor going to feed and shelter animals? How will they provide veterinary care when they probably have scant medical care themselves? (Heifer International's aquaculture operations to pull poor ghetto kids out of poverty in Chicago ending in all the fish dying twice.) How will poor people prevent the devastation of animal-to-human diseases such as avian and swine influenzas? How will they keep animals from being stolen? Are live animals a gift...or a "feel good" charity that actually creates more problems for the poor?
Visitors to villages that have received Heifer International gifts have reported whole flocks of birds dying from diseases and children sleeping with the animal to safeguard them.
Parents in the U.S. have complained about the "lessons" taught at Heifer International's "Global Village" program in Perryville, AK where school kids get to witness animals being killed. One mother wrote the local TV station to say her son continued to be haunted by the screams of a rabbit as its neck was broken.
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It happened.
Yes, I was surprised. Ssince I spend a lot of time in western Pennsylvania--I knew there was more support for Trump than the media let on, but he just seemed too incompetent, incoherent, and disorganized a candidate to defeat the Clinton machine. I enjoyed torturing my friend who has been very close to Hillary for decades with scary stories about Trump surging. But in our early election day texting, I confessed that I thought it would be called for Hillary by 11PM at the latest. I was as wrong as everyone else.
I did not vote for either Hillary or Trump, and was resigned to taking my chances with either horrible outcome, but I was implicitly anticipating the dangers of a Clinton administration. I also thought, however, that there might be one positive effect of Hillary's presidency. Contrary to what might be considered the usual leftist line that electing the explicitly ultra-reactionary Trump would foment the revolution, or at least radical discontent, I thought that, in the American context, Hillary being president would help the left the most.
If Trump wins, I argued, and his policies fail miserably and obviously, Democrats and liberals would spend the next four years saying: "See, you should have voted for Hillary," and channeling oppositional energy into a familiar anti-Trump, anti-Republican, "Let's make sure we elect a Democrat in 2020" politics--as we saw after Bush's election in 2000. The Democrats would once again present themselves as the system's way out.
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Redwood Valley community meeting discusses DAPL
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As efforts to oppose the Dakota Access Pipeline grow, communities across the country are hearing from activists on their return from North Dakota and sending off fresh teams to lend support. The author believes that part of the support for the Standing Rock protests is a dawning consciousness that Native people have something important to teach us about living well on this planet.
On Sunday, November 6, in Redwood Valley, a tiny agricultural community in northern California known for its premium wine grapes and marijuana and its back-to-the-land ethics, cars spilled out of the parking lot at the local Grange and lined rural East Side Road in both directions for most of the afternoon. In an event sponsored by the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians, several hundred people gathered to listen to activists report back from Standing Rock where they had stood in solidarity with Native American Tribes opposing the Dakota Access Pipeline. In a kind of relay race that is being enacted across the country, the event was also a fundraiser for another team of local activists who will leave shortly for Standing Rock. I was there with my wife, Sherrie, who is Mihilakawna Pomo and Bodega Miwok, and comes from an activist California Indian family. In the 1970s, her father, Bill Smith, led a dogged ten-year struggle to stop construction of Warm Springs Dam, which ultimately flooded his tribe's homeland in Sonoma County's Dry Creek Valley, a project that was sold to the public as flood control but which was actually designed to provide drinking water for development of Marin and Sonoma Counties, development which came, as promised, in a rush, and continues.
We were happy and surprised to see all the cars outside the Grange, but even still we weren't prepared for the standing-room-only gathering inside. Roughly two hundred people listened as local activists talked about their experience at Standing Rock, about the banks who are funding construction of the pipeline, and about the spirit of the people gathered in North Dakota to oppose it. Many more people came throughout the afternoon to eat a hot meal, listen to music, watch Native American dancing, and give their support.
It was the largest gathering of people for a progressive cause that I've witnessed in the nearly twenty years I've lived in progressive though sparsely populated Mendocino County. These events are vital, not only because they educate and raise funds, but also because they connect us to actions and issues that are bigger than ourselves and to the people most directly involved in them.
A week earlier, as most of the people gathered at the Grange knew, police and deputies from six states had turned violent when arresting 141 water protectors who had, only a day before, staged a camp on private land in the direct path of the planned Dakota Access Pipeline. If we've learned anything this year it is that it's ok to occupy federal land, but private property, perhaps especially if it is owned by a corporation spending a lot of money in your community, is another thing. Police shot activists, some of them children, with bean bags and rubber bullets, blasted them with pepper spray fired in thick jets from canisters the size of a fire extinguisher though meant to start not quench fires, assaulted them with LRAD sound cannons (long range acoustic devices), and wrestled them to hard ground, kneeling on their backs and binding their wrists with plastic zip ties.
Somehow, through all of this, almost all of the protestors remained peaceful, calling out to each other "Stand in your prayer," and holding their ground. And where they didn't remain peaceful, setting fires that burned a couple of cars, they were rebuked by the movement's leadership. In a statement made after the arrests, Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Chairman Dave Archambault II makes it clear that no form of violence by anyone is acceptable.
"Militarized law enforcement agencies moved in on water protectors with tanks and
riot gear today. We continue to pray for peace. We call on the state of North Dakota
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From Red v Blue to Purple, Yes?
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Immigration is not new to Middle America. However, the concern of losing one's culture amidst more minorities who don't speak American, can be frightening to some whose life experience has been diversity deprived -- but our 2016 election faultline is more than the politics of Immigration and race, gender & sexual equality.
Our clash of time vs. culture; expectations vs. experience; to the rear march vs. full speed ahead and damn the torpedoes offers: do-over of lost dreams or digesting melting pot reality.
Elections are our opportunity for in-depth National, State, Local, Family and individual soul searching -- because chasing the past by ignoring the future, has severe term limitations:
Can Conservatives define the change they seek?
To what values do Conservatives want America to return?
Which America are we to be or not to be? Globalists saving the earth from ourselves or: it's not my problem Isolationists?
Are Sequestration, Secession and War the only solutions we have, to heal our Great Divide?
Donald Trump has been dishonest with Americans hungry for anything that looked, sounded and promised anything -- different.
So, while the popular vote elected Hillary Clinton, the unpopular vote willingly prostrated before the altar of hacked memories over future innovation; preferring deregulation allowing coal ash, Fracking and Factory Farms to steal our healthy environment. The unpopular vote chose Paul Ryan's cutting Medicare and the fantasy that anyone can revive an industry abandoned by coal companies, bequeathing coal families the pacifier of clean coal fiction.
Early 11/9/16, corporate media talkers, talking the predictable predictions stumbled out of programmed fantasy-land into a glimmer of the light at the end of their tunnel vision -- to see through the glass ceiling darkly -- what happened between Hillary's contested victory over Bernie in the 2015 Iowa Caucus and James Comey's email flip flops: knowing when to hold them for pollsters and when to fold them in voting booths, the industrial cavalry had arrived.
However, FDR Baby Boomers to Bernie Millennials hadn't been joined by the post November 22, 1963 African-American voters nor 2016 offended women and Hispanic voters -- enough to purge the mob-rule of the Alt-Right, or sway Americans determined to force-feed the college educated the consequences of potential long-term disaster, to make a narrow point.
So, Blue Fire & Mexican Wall focused, we discounted the uncounted diminishing white majority -- forgetting, there is passion in fear as well as herstory. Lessons: The Democratic Party, to assume is to make an ass out of you and me; Trump's, keep it simple stupid.
Most Republicans, including Trump voters aren't bullies and racists, but too many voted to preserve the life in a rear-view mirror that's lost its silver-lining. Forgetting time waits for no one to keep up, is no defense against memories colored by rusty overlays, overlapping visits to grandma's house with longing to rerun black and white TV serials.
Bad News: some American families believe their financial security and personal stability have been lost by a myopic media able to focus us on only one, if it bleeds it leads, storyline a week.
Good News: Media, government and Wall Street respect what we tell them we respect, for they need our consumerism and votes more than we need their gossip, filibustering political ads and TV commercials.
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It's essential that progressives learn from Hillary Clinton's devastating defeat. There are two competing theories about what happened: Hillary's campaign blew it or she was cheated.
1) The Clinton Campaign screwed up. The strongest argument is: 2016 was a change election and Clinton's campaign didn't take that seriously. During the Democratic primaries, Bernie Sanders tried to warn the Democratic Party about the economic frustration of working families but somehow the Clinton campaign didn't get this message.
In his pre-election survey of likely voters, (http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2016/11/07/patrick-caddell-real-election-surprise-uprising-american-people.html#) Democratic pollster Pat Caddell found that two-thirds of respondents agreed, "The real struggle for America is not between Democrats and Republicans but between mainstream American and the ruling political elites." 81 percent of respondents said, "The U.S. has a two-track economy where most Americans struggle every day, where good jobs are hard to find, where huge corporations get all the rewards. We need fundamental changes to fix the inequity in our economic system." [Emphasis added]
Hillary understood the "two-track economy" problem but her message was not clear. At the time, "Stronger Together" seemed okay as a slogan but it indicated that Clinton gave as much attention to bigotry as she did economic fairness. While bigotry is a huge problem, in this election economic fairness was by far the dominant issue. Thus, Trump's slogan, "Make America great again," was more effective.
Late in the election cycle, when it became clear to the Clinton campaign that they might lose Michigan, they began running TV ads there. However, the Clinton ads attacked Trump; none featured Hillary's economic message.
The New York Times exit poll indicated that of those voters whose most important candidate quality was "can bring needed change," 83 percent chose Trump. (Clinton prevailed on all the other qualities: "cares about people like me," "has the right experience," and "has good judgment.") Change voters voted for Trump even though they had an unfavorable opinion of him.
Hillary wasn't the right Democratic candidate for a change election. Pat Caddell's survey found 87 percent of respondents believed, "The country is run by an alliance of incumbent politicians, media pundits, lobbyists and other powerful money interests for their own gain at the expense of the American people." Clinton was viewed as an insider and Trump as an outsider, theoretically an agent of change.
Bernie Sanders would have been a better Democratic candidate because he was seen as an outsider and someone who understood, "the system is rigged."
In July, Michael Moore wrote "5 Reasons Why Trump Will Win" (http://michaelmoore.com/trumpwillwin/) and he was right on target. First he predicted that Trump would focus on, and ultimately carry, four previously blue states: Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. States filled with angry voters who feel, "abandoned by Democrats." Second, he predicted the election would be "the last stand of the angry white man." (Trump won white men by a wide margin and Clinton did not get the female voter surge that she expected.) Third, Moore predicted a problem because of Hillary's unpopularity which resulted in a lack of Democratic voter enthusiasm. Fourth, Moore thought that Sanders' voters would ultimately vote for Hillary but unethusiastically, leading to a depressed turnout. Finally, Moore predicted "the Jesse Ventura effect" where some voters would vote to blow up the system. (On November 8th they voted for Trump because they believed he was a change agent even though they didn't like him.)
2).Hillary was cheated: She won the popular vote and barely lost the electoral vote.
The Clinton campaign blames her loss on the October 28th intervention by FBI Director James Comey who, in effect, reopened the issue of the Clinton email server. Certainly this was an unprecedented act; one that some Washington observers felt violated the Hatch Act. But to blame Hillary's loss on this ignores the fact that, even before Comey's intervention, Hillary had a 53 percent unfavorability rating.
Clinton didn't hold the "Obama coalition." (She received 5 million fewer votes than Obama did in 2012.) Hillary underperformed among young people, African-Americans, Asians, and Latinos. She also slightly underperformed Obama's numbers among Democrats and Independents. (Trump held 90 percent of Republicans while Clinton held 89 percent of Democrats.)
Hillary was suppose to overperform Obama among female voters but that didn't happen -- she only attracted 1 point more women (and lost 5 percent of males). According to the Cook Report, Clinton didn't do as strongly among suburban Republicans and college-educated white women as her campaign had expected.
Clinton lost Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin by a total of 107,000 votes. Some Hillary supporters feel these votes were stolen. However, an excellent analysis by German Lopez (http://www.vox.com/policy-and-politics/2016/11/11/13597452/voter-suppression-clinton-trump-2016) concludes that voter suppression does not explain Clinton's loss in Michigan and Pennsylvania: "In Pennsylvania, Clinton got 2 percent fewer votes than Obama did in 2012, while Trump got 11 percent more than Mitt Romney. In Michigan, Clinton got 11 percent fewer votes than Obama did in 2012, while Trump got 8 percent more than Mitt Romney. Clinton simply got fewer people to turn out for her than the last Democrat who ran, while Trump appeared to get more than the previous Republican."
Bottom line: This is such a devastating defeat that it's comforting to imagine that Hillary Clinton was cheated by Donald Trump. But that's not what happened: Hillary lost because she ran a losing campaign.
In 1992, the in-house motto of Bill Clinton's presidential campaign was, "It's the economy stupid." Hillary was there but, for whatever reason, she didn't use this motto in 2016: she didn't make economic fairness her cornerstone issue and it cost her.
United States Connected Car Ecosystem Market 2016 Industry, Analysis, Research, Share, Growth, Sales, Trends, Supply, Forecast to 2021
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Qyresearchreports include new market research reportUnited States Connected Car Ecosystem Market 2016 Industry, Analysis, Research, Share, Growth, Sales, Trends, Supply, Forecast to 2021" to its huge collection of research reports.The United States Connected Car Ecosystem Industry 2016 Market Research Report is a professional and in-depth study on the current state of the Connected Car Ecosystem industry.The report provides a basic overview of the industry including definitions, classifications, applications and industry chain structure. The Connected Car Ecosystem market analysis is provided for the United States markets including development trends, competitive landscape analysis, and key regions development status.To Download Sample Report With TOC:Development policies and plans are discussed as well as manufacturing processes and Bill of Materials cost structures are also analyzed. This report also states import/export consumption, supply and demand Figures, cost, price, revenue and gross margins.The report focuses on United States major leading industry players providing information such as company profiles, product picture and specification, capacity, production, price, cost, revenue and contact information. Upstream raw materials and equipment and downstream demand analysis is also carried out. The Connected Car Ecosystem industry development trends and marketing channels are analyzed. Finally the feasibility of new investment projects are assessed and overall research conclusions offered.With 142 tables and figures the report provides key statistics on the state of the industry and is a valuable source of guidance and direction for companies and individuals interested in the market.Table of Contents1 Industry Overview1.1 Definition and Specifications of Connected Car Ecosystem1.1.1 Definition of Connected Car Ecosystem1.1.2 Specifications of Connected Car Ecosystem1.2 Classification of Connected Car Ecosystem1.2.1 Interface Board1.2.2 Sensor1.2.3 Surveillance Camera1.3 Applications of Connected Car Ecosystem1.4 Industry Chain Structure of Connected Car Ecosystem1.5 Industry Overview of Connected Car Ecosystem1.6 Industry Policy Analysis of Connected Car Ecosystem1.7 Industry News Analysis of Connected Car EcosystemTo Browse a Full Report with TOC:2 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Connected Car Ecosystem2.1 Bill of Materials (BOM) of Connected Car Ecosystem2.2 BOM Price Analysis of Connected Car Ecosystem2.3 Labor Cost Analysis of Connected Car Ecosystem2.4 Depreciation Cost Analysis of Connected Car Ecosystem2.5 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Connected Car Ecosystem2.6 Manufacturing Process Analysis of Connected Car Ecosystem2.7 United States Price, Cost and Gross of Connected Car Ecosystem 2011-20163 Technical Data and Manufacturing Plants Analysis3.1 Capacity and Commercial Production Date of United States Key Manufacturers in 20153.2 Manufacturing Plants Distribution of United States Key Connected Car Ecosystem Manufacturers in 20153.3 R&D Status and Technology Source of United States Connected Car Ecosystem Key Manufacturers in 20153.4 Raw Materials Sources Analysis of United States Connected Car Ecosystem Key Manufacturers in 20154 Production Analysis of Connected Car Ecosystem by Regions, Type, and Applications4.1 United States Production of Connected Car Ecosystem by Regions 2011-20164.2 United States Production of Connected Car Ecosystem by Type 2011-20164.3 United States Sales of Connected Car Ecosystem by Applications 2011-20164.4 Price Analysis of United States Connected Car Ecosystem Key Manufacturers in 20154.5 United States Capacity, Production, Import, Export, Sales, Price, Cost and Revenue of Connected Car Ecosystem 2011-2016To Download Sample Report With TOC:5 Consumption Volume and Consumption Value Analysis of Connected Car Ecosystem by Regions5.1 United States Consumption Volume of Connected Car Ecosystem by Regions 2011-20165.2 United States Consumption Value of Connected Car Ecosystem by Regions 2011-20165.3 United States Consumption Price Analysis of Connected Car Ecosystem by Regions 2011-2016About Us :QYresearchreports.com delivers the latest strategic market intelligence to build a successful business footprint in China. Our syndicated and customized research reports provide companies with vital background information of the market and in-depth analysis on the Chinese trade and investment framework, which directly affects their business operations.Contact US:Brooklyn, NY 11230United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948 (USA-CANADA)Tel: +1-518-618-1030Email: sales@qyresearchreports.com
Elevator And Escalator Market In Canada Will Grow Steadily At A CAGR Of 1.66%, In Terms Of New Installed Units Over The Period 2014-2019
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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Elevators and Escalators Market in Canada 2015-2019" to its huge collection of research reports.Elevators and escalators are deployed in buildings for the smooth and easy movement of people and goods within a building's premises. They are installed in commercial, residential, and mixed-used buildings. They are also installed in public places to improve vehicle parking management.Technavio's analysts forecast the elevator and escalator market in Canada to grow at a CAGR of 1.66%, in terms of new installed units over the period 2014-2019.Covered in this reportIn this report, Technavio includes the present scenario and growth prospects of the elevator and escalator market in Canada for 2015-2019. To calculate the market size, we consider the number of new elevator and escalator units installed in the country. The report also presents the vendor landscape and a corresponding detailed analysis of the key vendors in the market, and a brief description on the other prominent vendors. In addition, the report discusses the major drivers that influence the growth of the elevator and escalator market in Canada. It also outlines the challenges faced by the vendors and the market at large, and highlights the key trends in the market.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Technavio's report, Elevator and Escalator Market in Canada 2015-2019, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry expertsKey customer segmentsCommercial customersNon-commercial customersKey vendorsKONE CanadaOtis CanadaRAM ManfacturingSavariaSchindler USA and CanadaThyssenKrupp Elevator AmericasOther prominent vendorsCEE ElevatorDelta ElevatorElevator OneJoyride LiftsSkyline ElevatorMarket driverGrowth of high-rise building constructionFor a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket challengeMarket concentration in bigger citiesFor a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket trendAdoption of green elevators and escalatorsFor a full, detailed list, view our reportKey questions answered in this reportWhat will the market size be in 2019 and what will the growth rate be?What are the key market trends?What is driving this market?What are the challenges to market growth?Who are the key vendors in this market space?What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key vendors?What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors?Make an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
Elevator And Escalator Market In Mexico Will Grow Steadily At A CAGR Of 0.51%, In Terms Of New Installed Units, Over The Period 2014-2019
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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Elevator and Escalator Market in Mexico 2015-2019" to its huge collection of research reports.Elevators and escalators are positioned in buildings for efficient movement of people and goods within a building's premises. They are installed in commercial, residential, and mixed-used buildings. They are also installed in public places to improve vehicle parking management.Technavio's analysts forecast the elevator and escalator market in Mexico to grow at a CAGR of 0.51%, in terms of new installed units, over the period 2014-2019.Covered in this reportIn this report, Technavio includes the present scenario and growth prospects of the elevator and escalator market in Mexico for 2015-2019. To calculate the market size, we consider the number of new elevator and escalator units installed in the country during the forecast period. The report also presents the vendor landscape and a corresponding detailed analysis of the key vendors in the market, and a brief description on the other prominent vendors. In addition, the report discusses the major drivers that influence the growth of the elevator and escalator market in Mexico. It also outlines the challenges faced by the vendors and the market at large, and highlights the key trends in the market.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Technavio's report, Elevator and Escalator Market in Mexico 2015-2019, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts.Key customer segmentsCommercial CustomersNon-commercial CustomersKey vendorsElevadores Otis MexicoKONE MexicoMitsubishi MexicoSchindler MexicoThyssenKrupp Elevadores MexicoOther prominent vendorsAbell ElevatorsIronHawk ElevatorsSematic GroupMarket driverIncrease in construction of high-rise buildingsFor a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket challengeCapacity expansion and safety in elevators and escalatorsFor a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket trendEmergence of energy-efficient elevators and escalatorsFor a full, detailed list, view our reportKey questions answered in this reportWhat will the market size be in 2019 and what will the growth rate be?What are the key market trends?What is driving this market?What are the challenges to market growth?Who are the key vendors in this market space?What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key vendors?What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors?To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
Craft Beer Market In The Us Will Grow Steadily At A CAGR Of 18.3% And 16.72% In Terms Of Revenue And Volume, Respectively, Over The Period 2014-2019
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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Craft Beer Market in the US 2015-2019" to its huge collection of research reports.Craft beers are flavored beers brewed in microbreweries or small, independent, and traditional breweries. Small breweries are those that produce less than 6 million barrels of beer annually, while independent breweries are those where not more than 25% of the brewery is owned and managed by an alcoholic beverage company. Traditional breweries are those breweries where 50% of the volumes of beer produced are malt beers that use high-quality ingredients. Craft beers have distinctive tastes as compared to regular beers made of various flavors and ingredients. These beers are manufactured and served fresh in bottles, cans, and kegs.Technavio's analysts forecast the craft beer market in the US to grow at a CAGR of 18.3% and 16.72% in terms of revenue and volume, respectively, over the period 2014-2019.Covered in this reportThis report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the craft beer market in the US for the period 2015-2019. To calculate the market size, this report includes revenue generated from the sales of the following craft beer:IPA (India pale ale)SeasonalPale aleAmber aleAmber lagerWheatBocksFruit beerOthers (other pale lagers, brewpub exclusive)To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @It also presents the vendor landscape and a corresponding detailed analysis of the top four vendors in the craft beer market in the US. The market share of vendors is calculated on the basis of the sales of craft beer from supermarkets, drugstores, mass market retailers, convenience stores, clubs, and other retail chains. In addition, the report discusses the major drivers that influence the growth of the market. It also outlines the challenges faced by the vendors and the market at large, and the key trends that are emerging in the market.Key vendorsD.G. YuenglingNew Belgium BrewingSierra Nevada BrewingThe Boston BeerThe GambrinusOther prominent vendorsAnheuser-BuschBells BreweryBrooklyn BreweryCraft Brew AllianceDeschutes BreweryDogfish Head Craft BreweryDuvel MoortgatHarpoon BreweryLagunitas BrewingMatt BrewingMillerCoorsMinhas Craft BreweryOskar Blues BrewingStone BrewingMarket DriverChanging consumer tastes and preferencesFor a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket ChallengeLack of awareness about craft beerFor a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket TrendGrowing canned craft beer productionFor a full, detailed list, view our reportKey Questions Answered in this ReportWhat will the market size be in 2019 and what will the growth rate be?What are the key market trends?What is driving this market?What are the challenges to market growth?Who are the key vendors in this market space?What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key vendors?What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors?Make an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
Takeaway Food Delivery Market: Focus on Online Channel (2014-19) | Now Available at Researchmoz.us
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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Takeaway Food Delivery Market: Focus on Online Channel (2014-19)" to its huge collection of research reports.The Report titled Takeaway Food Delivery Market: Focus on Online Channel (2014-2019) provides an insight into takeaway Food Delivery market with a special focus on online takeaway food. The report also includes the market value, segmentation and also country-wise market analysis. It also discusses key growth drivers, challenges and upcoming trends of the market. Further, companies like Just Eat, GrubHub, Delivery Hero, and Takeaway.com are profiled in the report.Country Coverage- The UK- Spain- France- Italy- Netherlands- Denmark- Norway- Switzerland- The US- Canada- BrazilTo Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Company Coverage- GruhHub Holdings Inc.- Just Eat Plc.- Delivery Hero and Hungryhouse- Takeaway.com- Foodpanda & HelloFoodExecutive SummaryTakeaway food delivery offers a convenient alternative, providing diners with a wide variety of options. Consumers have many choices for takeaway food, including online takeaway food aggregator portals, restaurant chains offering online ordering services, as well as local restaurants offering telephone-based and walk-in takeaway food services. Growth in takeaway food delivery market is outpacing global GDP growth with online ordering growing much faster, proliferated by the adoption of E-commerce and increased smartphones/tablet penetration.Consumers are shifting from traditional telephone based takeaway ordering to online platform as it offers wide variety of choices, ratings and reviews, including payment by credit or debit card, and a more efficient consumer experience. Companies that offer online food ordering services include Just Eat, GrubHub, Delivery Hero, Takeaway.com etc. Takeaway restaurants (TRs) sign contracts with these companies to join their platform and have their menus made accessible to consumers. These online companies primarily derive their revenue from commissions charged to TRs on order value placed through its platform.The US is the largest market for takeaway food delivery market followed by the UK, Italy, Spain, Canada, France, Brazil and others. The online food ordering industry saw a major consolidation with Delivery Hero acquiring Lieferheld of Germany and hungryhouse of the UK in 2012. In 2013, GrubHub merged with Seamless took making it the largest online takeaway food company. Drivers contributing to the growth include rising usage of internet, urbanization and demand from developing countries.Make an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
Donald Trump's election as new U.S. president is met by protests. (Photo : Getty Images)
Media outlets in China didn't put much attention to covering the 45th U.S. President Donald Trump's victory speech and more airtime was given to Premier Li Keqiang's meeting with Vladimir Putin.
Instructions came from the government to media outfits to stop "excessive" exposure on the victory of Donald Trump. The government is also limiting too much attention to western ideas, according to observers.
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However, the limited media focus on Donald Trump news didn't stop Chinese to voice their opinion on the matter. Mixed reactions surfaced from various parts of the world as seen online.
One Sina Weibo user named Zhonghua Junlong posted, "It shows that the U.S. government and democracy have weakened. And at the same times, it provided our country with a prosperous opportunity--it will make China more powerful."
Another netizen named Fangsi de qingchun said, "I think Trump is the tragedy of the American people. How did he win? It must be a scam. Now I think cats and dogs can be president!"
A few days before the election, various survey results showed that Clinton was not favored in China. Another survey from the South China Morning Post showed that Trump was not liked.
Experts on U.S. politics in China also have mixed reactions.
"Trump's election shows the problem of American democracy," said Yu Tiejun, a professor of international studies at Peking University in Beijing.
According to Paul Haenle, director of the Carnegie-Tsinghua Center for Global Policy in Beijing, "There is a lot of Chinese schadenfreude about the lowly nature of the debate in the U.S. election campaign. It's a total gift to Chinese propaganda."
Connected Home Appliance Market In The Us Will Grow Steadily At A CAGR Of 98.36% Over The Period 2014-2019
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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Connected Home Appliance Market in the US 2015-2019" to its huge collection of research reports.Smart home appliance or connected home appliance allows home dwellers to monitor and control the activities necessary to carry out at home on a regular basis from a remote location. This helps convenient lifestyle for consumer and enhances the quality of life. Adoption of smart home appliance helps reduce energy bills through energy conservation. Connected home appliance providers have to focus on the untapped potential consumer segment to boost the market revenue. This market is expected to witness rapid growth in the coming years due to the growing awareness of the connected devices among users.Technavio's analysts forecast the connected home appliance market in the US to grow at a CAGR of 98.36% over the period 2014-2019.Covered in this reportThe report covers the current scenario and the growth prospects of the connected home appliance market in the US for the period of 2015-2019. To calculate the market size, the report considers the following:To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Revenue generated from home appliance services provided by telecom operators, internet service providers, managed service providers, and equipment providersService revenue from three categories: kitchen and laundry equipment, air conditioners, and smart TVs. In kitchen and laundry equipment includes refrigerators, dishwashers, cooktops and induction stoves, and washing machineIt doesn't include revenue generated from the sales of the above-mentioned devicesTechnavio's report, Connected Home Appliance Market in the US 2015-2019, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the landscape of the connected home appliance market in the US and its growth prospects in the coming years. The report includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market.Key vendorsArris GroupComcastiControl NetworksSamsungOther prominent vendorsAT&TBoschDacorElectroluxFrigidaireGEHaierIngersoll-RandSprintThermadorWhirlpool CorporationKey market driverGrowing smartphone penetrationFor a full, detailed list, view our reportKey market challengeLack of standardization and interoperability of devicesFor a full, detailed list, view our reportKey market trendCloud-enabled technologiesFor a full, detailed list, view our reportKey questions answered in this reportWhat will the market size be in 2019 and what will the growth rate be?What are the key market trends?What is driving this market?What are the challenges to market growth?Who are the key vendors in this market space?What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key vendors?What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors?Make an Enquiry of this report @About ResearchMozResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesEmail: sales@researchmoz.usWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @
Third times a charm for Huawei as exclusive diamond sponsor for WAPIC in Lagos in November
Flagship energy event to unite some 2000 power pros
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The well-known global information and telecommunication giant, Huawei, will return as the exclusive diamond sponsor for the third time in a row for the upcoming WAPIC (West African Power Industry Convention) taking place in Lagos from 23-24 November.We are absolutely thrilled that Huawei has given WAPIC the seal of approval for the third time in a row says Claire OConnell, event director of WAPIC. She adds: we take our task of gathering the best in the industry to discuss the challenges and successes very seriously and as market leader, Huawei, should be part of that conversation. We once again look forward to their contribution to this years conference and exhibition.As a global leading ICT solution provider, Huawei serves 170 countries and one-third of the global population. With more than 20 years of experience implementing successful ICT solutions and a deep understanding of power industry operations, Huawei is able to provide an innovative and industry-specific ICT solution for a better Smart Grid.WAPIC, a flagship, regional conference and exhibition, will return to Lagos with an exciting interactive programme that reflects the dynamic energy landscape of the region and will once again attract some 2000 power professionals, high-level experts and industry stalwarts during the 13th edition of the event.The MD of Huawei Nigeria, Mr Li Beifang, is a speaker in the WAPIC opening session, while the Huawei Forum, which forms part of the strategic conference, will focus on Leading new ICT, building a better connected intelligent grid. Speakers and topics in the Huawei Forum will include: Global energy interconnection development and ICT- Liu Jianming, Deputy Director of the Chinese Society for Electrical Engineering (CSEE), China Smart Metering_Ikeja Electric PLC Experience- Discussion with senior representatives from IKEJA Electric Leading new ICT, building 100% connected power IoT- Jerry Ji, President Energy Industry Enterprise, Business Group, China Making the best value for your money in AMI- Guofeng, Senior IoT Solution Consultant, Huawei EBG Leading New ICT, Building 100% Connected Power IoT- David Randolph Hoelscher, Marketing Director, Department of Huawei IoT Solutions Insight into the Nigeria Power Sector- Engr. Abayomi AdebisiInnovation HubSMEs, start-ups and young innovators will be given the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase their new solutions, game changing technology and inventions for the power industry at the Innovation Hub taking place during WAPIC. Part of the programme of the Innovation Hub is a look at specific, identified problem sets in the power sector where innovation and new technologies can make a huge difference.Industry awardsThe third edition of the hugely successful West African Power Industry Awards will also take place at this years WAPIC during a gala dinner evening when industry pioneers and projects will be recognised and celebrated in seven different categories.WAPIC dates and location:Pre-conference Masterclass: 22 November 2016Documentary screening, Nowhere to Run: 22 November 2016Conference and exhibition: 23-24 November 2016West African Power Industry Awards: Wednesday, 23 November 2016Event location: Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos, NigeriaWAPIC is organised by Spintelligent, leading Cape Town-based trade exhibition and conference organiser, and the African office of Clarion Events Ltd, based in the UK. Other flagship events in Spintelligents power portfolio on the continent are African Utility Week, the East African Power Industry Convention (EAPIC), iPAD Rwanda Energy Infrastructure Forum and iPAD Cameroon Energy & Infrastructure Forum.Senior communications manager: Annemarie RoodbolTelephone: +27 21 700 3558Mobile: +27 82 562 7844Email: annemarie.roodbol@spintelligent.comWebsite:Postal address: PO Box 321, Steenberg, 7947, South Africa
Donna Louis, Author Of Miracles Of Direction, Named As Finalist In 50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading Book Awards
Christian book author Donna Louis
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Donna Louis, author of Miracles Of Direction, has been named as a finalist in the 50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading Book Awards Contest. Her honors came as a result of her appearance on The Authors Show. Donna was chosen from a field of hundreds of authors through a public voting process.I am humbled and honored to be one of the finalists in this years 50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading Awards," Donna stated. "This is one step away from what you would call 'The Writer's Oscar.' It is an amazing feeling and a tremendous rush to know that your words mean something to people and so they acknowledge that. I want to thank everyone who has already voted for me as well as those who will be voting for me. Books don't sell unless the words mean something and touch a persons heart. That is my greatest joy in writing.Donna Louis' book, 'Miracles of Direction, Miracles of Conquest, Miracles of Provision and Miracles of Purpose' explores biblical miracles that took place while Jesus was here on earth. She then references with miracles that take place on a daily basis in the modern world. She separates these miracles into four categories and presents insightful example of each type, taken directly from the Bible.Louis knows her subject well, as she has personally experienced three miracles. As the result of those life-altering experiences, she began an in-depth study of some of Christianity's most well-documented miracles. In her book, she attempts to expand upon and explain both the purpose and the direction of those miracles.Louis was chosen as a winner in the 2015 '50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading' awards contest. 'Miracles' has also received rave reviews from readers. One review called it "amazing, uplifting and inspirational". Another stated, "I was profoundly impressed by the writing."Members of the public who want to vote for Donna in the 2016 '50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading' Book Awards can access her entry and vote at The Authors Show site. Donna Louis is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below, or by email at louistolouis@aol.com. More information is available at her website. Miracles Of Direction is available at online retail book outlets. More information is available at her website.Donna Louis is happily married to her husband of 30 years Patrick Louis and currently resides in Florida. She lives to accomplish the task that God created her for and on a daily basis to follow Proverbs 3:5-6. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."PO Box 1613Shallotte, NC 28459
Growth of Global Multi-Sensory Packaging Market is driven by the Demand for Innovative Packaging Technologies from Various End-user Industries
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Multi-sensory packaging is a type of packaging for commodities that are sensitive to temperature, sight, smell and touch. Multi-sensory packaging also provides more visual enhancement to the products with innovative labeling that changes color with touch or temperature variations, which attracts the consumers towards the product. Furthermore, manufacturers are adopting new ideas and technologies for differentiating their products in the market. Hence, manufacturers are opting multi-sensory packaging which plays a major role in marketing and attracting consumers towards their product.Interpret a Competitive outlook Analysis Report with PDF Brochure:Global Multi-sensory Packaging Market: Drivers & RestraintsThe growth of global multi-sensory packaging market is driven by the demand for innovative packaging technologies from various end-user industries to make their products more appealing to consumers. Multi-sensory packaging is mostly adopted by the food & beverage industry, where multi-sensory packaging is used as a marketing tool by the manufacturers to make their product more appealing to consumers. Furthermore, the demand for FMCG (Fast-moving Consumer Goods) and the changing eating habits of the consumers towards packed snacks and confectioneries are further boosting the demand for the multi-sensory packaging market among the manufacturers globally. On the plus side, macroeconomic factors such as rise in disposable income of middle-class population leading to increased spending on FMCG products can be attributed to the growth of multi-sensory packaging market globally. Trends prominent in the multi-sensory packaging is the innovations, for instance, DS Smith, a leading European company in packaging has developed talking paper for packaging which reciprocates once it's touched and a recorded information can be heard. However, complexities associated with different types of multi-sensory packaging might hamper the growth of the global multi-sensory packaging market.Global Multi-sensory Packaging Market: SegmentationThe global multi-sensory packaging market is segmented on the basis of multi-sensory packaging types, applications and regionOn the basis of multi-sensory packaging types, the global multi-sensory packaging market is segmented into:VisualTouchSmellSoundOn the basis of applications, the global Multi-sensory Packaging market is segmented into:Packed SnacksBeveragesAlcoholic BeveragesConfectioneriesCosmeticsPharmaceuticalsMulti-sensory Packaging Market: Regional OutlookBased on the geographies, global multi-sensory packaging market is segmented into five key regions -- North America, Latin America, Europe, APAC, and the Middle East & Africa. Among the regions mentioned above, North America accounts for significant share for multi-sensory packaging market, owing to the demand for packaging technologies that garner consumer attentions among the manufacturers across the country. Furthermore, North America packaging industrys position in the global packaging market is bolstering growth for multi-sensory packaging in the region. Europe market for multi-sensory packaging is followed by the North America market, which is followed by Asia-pacific and Middle-East & Africa market for multi-sensory packaging. Latin America market for multi-sensory packaging is anticipated to register a sluggish growth over the forecast period. Overall, the global multi-sensory packaging market is projected to register a healthy growth rate by the end of forecast period.Global Multi-sensory Packaging Market: Key PlayersSome of the major players identified in the global multi-sensory packaging market include DS Smith, First Flavor, Inc., ScentSational Technologies, KARL KNAUER KG, DOHLER, 3C! Packaging, Inc. and Alpha MOS Smell, Taste & Chemical Profiling among others.About TMRTMR is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.Contact TMR90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Asia Pacific Automotive Telematics Market Revenue during 2014 - 2020
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Future Market Insights (FMI) with sharp focus on emerging regions delivers key insights about the Asia Pacific automotive telematics market in its recent report titled, Asia Pacific Automotive Telematics Market Analysis and Opportunity Assessment, 2014 - 2020. According to this report, the global telematics market is expected to expand at a single-digit CAGR during forecast period 20142020. On the other hand, APAC will demonstrate the fastest growth in the global automotive telematics market at a double-digit CAGR during the forecast period. During this period, the contribution of the telematics market in the Asia Pacific region to the overall market is projected to increase from 26% to 30%, reflecting an increase of 400 BPS.This growth is attributed to high penetration of technologies and steadily increasing GDP. Moreover, Asia Pacific benefits from the presence of established vendors in the commercial vehicle telematics market, which includes PeopleNet, FleetMatics, Trimble, Telogis and Omnitracs. Furthermore, over 42% of the worlds Internet users in Asia (2013), combined with hundreds of millions of 4G users, will fuel growth of the APAC automotive telematics market during the forecast period.Request Free Report Sample@FMI lead consultant, Nikhil Kaitwade, sheds light on why Asia Pacific will emerge the fastest growing market in the near future. Telematics in the automotive industry has become increasingly relevant with a palpable emphasis on safety and security globally. New business models combined with increased technology adoption and remote vehicle diagnostics is fuelling growth of the Asia Pacific automotive telematics market, he said.The three key technologies that will drive the Asia Pacific automotive telematics market are:Embedded Technology Currently, this segment dominates the Asia Pacific automotive telematics market. Greater ease of assembly, ease of troubleshooting, reliability of components and fall in cost of electronic parts are factors driving demand for automotive embedded systems in this region. Increasing use of cloud-based telematics will also influence the APAC automotive telematics embedded technology market segment. FMI projects that this segment will display a double-digit CAGR during the forecast period.Tethered Technology The tethered technology segment in the Asia Pacific automotive telematics market will demonstrate the lowest growth at a single-digit CAGR during forecast period 20142020.Smartphone Technology Price advantages and growing smartphone penetration will fuel growth of the smartphone technology segment in the Asia Pacific automotive telematics market. FMI anticipates that evolving smartphone technology will witness the highest CAGR in double digits during the forecast period.Currently, North America dominates the global automotive telematics market, followed by Europe. High penetration of the aforesaid technologies in Asia Pacific combined with saturation of European and North American markets will continue to fuel growth of the APAC automotive telematics market.Send An Enquiry@Elaborating on this trend, Kaitwade further stated, In order to differentiate their product offerings, automotive OEMs are integrating telematics technologies into vehicles they manufacture.In addition, the expanding safety and security end-user segment and increasing prominence of social media in Asia Pacific will drive the automotive telematics market in the region. The safety and security end-user segment is anticipated to dominate the Asia Pacific automotive telematics market between 2014 and 2020 due to increasing consumer focus on safety and security aspects. Growing prominence of social media in the Asia Pacific region will also contribute to the growth of infotainment segment during the forecast period.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comPress@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Electronics Adhesives Market to Attain US$ 4.5 Bn Value in 2017
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Rising popularity of consumer electronics such as smartphones, tablets, and cameras is boosting the use of effective electronic adhesives. Soaring demand for electronics that can remain intact even after experiencing mechanical jerks has extended the consumption of vigorous adhesive materials such as epoxies and acrylics. At a y-o-y growth of 12.1% over 2016, the global market for electronic adhesives is anticipated to surge significantly and reach US$ 4,549.8 Mn market value by the end of 2017.Profound research by technological institutes has aided the production of cost-effective and efficient adhesive materials for electronic devices. Incidentally, manufacturers can supply such enhanced electronics adhesives and meet the consumer expectations regarding devices intactness.Escalating adoption of electronic devices and components in automotive vehicles as well as consumer appliances is significantly appending the consumption rate in the global electronics adhesive market. The global electronics adhesives market is also expected to grow rapidly, owing to factors such as rising use of compact component and assemblies in production of electronics, evolving drivability of such electronic devices, and the global upsurge in per capita expenditure on consumer electronics. However, instable adhesive films prices, stringent VOC emission standards, and high costs of setting up infrastructure for adhesive production are observed as major restraints curbing the growth of the global electronics adhesive market.Request Free Report Sample@On the basis of materials, acrylic adhesives are predicted to register the highest growth in the global market. Compare to other adhesive materials such as silicones and epoxies, the acrylics are being extensively used in conformal coatings and UV curing applications. Additionally, the rising demand for UV curing applications owing to their flexibility and lowered curing time is also expected to boost the consumption of acrylic adhesives. In 2017, the acrylics segment will procure US$ 1,904.5 Mn in terms of market size.On the basis of adhesive products, thermally conductive and electrically conductive product types will continue to dominate the global market. Electrically conductive products are expected to witness higher consumption and will replace the lead soldering processes in electronic connections. In terms of volume, electrically conductive adhesives is expected to account for more than 460 thousand tonnes in 2016, and will witness nearly 14% annual growth in 2017.Based on the applications, the global electronics adhesives market will exhibit higher consumption of adhesives in the surface mounting applications. The market value share of surface mounting applications in 2017 is expected to be almost 30%. Furthermore, conformal coating and encapsulation application are also estimated to garner considerable revenues, while wire tacking applications segment will demonstrate a moderate progress.Send An Enquiry@Asia Pacific is anticipated to retain its dominance on the global market by attaining US$ 2,798 Mn market value in 2017. Developing economies, increasing expenditure on IT infrastructure, and mounting demand for miniaturised electronic devices will continue to stimulate the growth of the electronics adhesive market in APAC countries. Moreover, Europe and North America will sustain their market presence by recording value shares of estimated 19% and 14% respectively.Companies such as Dymax Corporation, H.B. Fuller Company and 3M Company are recognised as some of the leading manufacturers of epoxy, acrylic and polyurethane adhesives, while Henkel AG & Co. and Dow Corning Corporation, among others, are known to be the key manufacturers of silicone adhesives in the global electronics adhesives market.Long-term Outlook: In terms of market value, the global market for electronics adhesives is projected to reach US$ 6,397 Mn over the forecast period 2016-2020. Asia Pacific will dominate with consumption of over 1,230 thousand tonnes of volume by 2020-end.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comPress@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Demand for Friction Modifiers Additives Market to Reach 174 Thousand Tonnes in 2016
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Global demand for friction modifiers additives will reach about 174 thousand tonnes in 2016, up from 167 thousand tonnes in 2015. This will represent a market value of US$ 1,027 Mn, an increase of US$ 62 Mn from 2015. While wide-ranging applications, most prominently as lubricants in automotive sector, will continue to fuel demand, availability of affordable alternatives, such as dispersant additives, corrosion inhibitors and detergent additives will continue to pose challenges.By product type, inorganic friction modifier additives will continue to outsell organic, reaching about 597 thousand tonnes in 2016. Among the inorganic friction modifier additives, MoDTC will continue to account for the highest demand, reaching 275 thousand tonnes in 2016. Among the three types of organic friction modifier additives-polymers, fatty acids, and esters & amides-polymers are witnessing high demand from the automotive sector in North America and Western Europe. This trend is expected to gain further momentum in 2016, propelling the growth of the overall market.Automotive lubricants will continue to be the largest application segment for friction modifier additives in 2016, witnessing a growth rate of about 6% over 2015, representing a market value worth US$272 Mn.Request Free Report Sample@Asia Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ) will maintain its numero uno position in 2016, with total demand expected to reach around 48 thousand tonnes. Demand will be supported by the regions expansive automotive sector, especially in the populous countries of China and India. These two countries will remain key to the growth of the global friction modifiers additives market in 2016 and beyond, as consumers in these countries put a lot of emphasis on the fuel efficiency of a vehicle while making buying decisions. In addition to the regions behemoth automotive industry, strong demand from the plethora of end-use industries in the region will continue to support demand. North America will continue to remain the second largest market for friction modifiers additives, representing a 22.5% share of global revenues.Key players operating in the global friction modifiers additives market are Chemtura Corporation, Multisol, Archoil, International Lubricants, Inc., Afton Chemical Corporation, and Wynns.Send An Enquiry@Long-term Outlook: The long-term outlook on the friction modifiers additives market remains positive with global volume witnessing a CAGR of 5.1% through 2026, whereas global revenues expanding at 6.9% through 2026.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comPress@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Sleep Apnea Diagnostic System Market Poised for Steady Growth in the Future
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Sleep apnea is a serious disorder that occurs when a persons breathing is interrupted during sleep. People with untreated sleep apnea stop breathing repeatedly during their sleep, this may happen from 5 to more than 50 times an hour. This means brain and rest of the body may not get enough oxygen. Sleep apnea can result in a growing number of health problems like high blood pressure, stroke, heart failure, diabetes, depression, worsening of ADHD, and headaches.Approximately 42million American adults have sleep disordered breathing, one in five adults has mild obstructive sleep apnea (OSA2), and 75% of severe sleep disorder breathing cases remain diagnostic.Sleep Apnea Diagnostic System Market: Drivers and RestraintsPresently, sleep diagnostic global market is driven by the aging population, technological advancement in healthcare sector around the globe, increasing rate of obesity in population and rising incidence of sleep apnea.Sleep apnea diagnostic global market drives by the increase in the obesity in population, increasing awareness regarding hypertension, strokes, and cardiovascular diseases and its association with sleep apnea, technological advancement in diagnostic devices. However, limited reimbursement, coupled with lack compliance are the major barrier for this market.Request Free Report Sample@Sleep Apnea Diagnostic System Market: SegmentationSleep apnea diagnostic system global market is segmented into following types:Polysomnography (PSG) DeviceClinical PSG DeviceAmbulatory PSG DeviceRespiratory PolygraphScreening devicesNasal Flow SensorsPeripheral Capillary Oxygen Saturation (SPO2)Actigraphy SystemsSleep Apnea Diagnostic System Market: OverviewWith rapid technological advancement, increasing rate of obesity among the population, and rising incidence of sleep apnea. The sleep apnea diagnostic systems global market is expected to grow at a healthy CAGR in the forecasted period (2015-2025).Request For TOC@Sleep Apnea Diagnostic System Market: Region-wise OutlookDepending on geographic regions, global sleep apnea diagnostic systems market is segmented into seven key regions: North America, South America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Asia Pacific, Japan, and Middle East & Africa.North America, and Western Europe dominated global sleep apnea diagnostic market in terms of market revenue. Asia-Pacific & Japan is projected to grow at a substantial growth and will contribute to the global sleep apnea diagnostic system market value exhibiting a robust CAGR during the forecast period, 2015?2025.Sleep Apnea Diagnostic System Market: Key PlayersSome of the key participating players in sleep apnea diagnostic market are ResMed, Koninklijke Philips N.V, CareFusion Corporation, and others.Send An Enquiry@ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comPress@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Global Wireless POS Terminals Market to grow at a CAGR of 13.7% over Forecast period 2015-2019
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Albany, NY, Nov 14: A POS refers to a system or a combination of systems that are used to facilitate easy and faster checkout for customers at various outlets. A standard POS system consists of a computer, monitor, cash drawer, receipt printer, barcode scanner, POS software, weight scale, and sometimes credit and debit card readers. A POS terminal is used for conducting sales and is used by retailers to manage information related to their inventory, customers, and cash flows. It is mainly used for retail sales management. A POS terminal not only improves the shopping experience for customers by reducing the processing time for payments but also helps them obtain and centralize information about sales of the respective products.The global wireless POS terminals market to grow at a CAGR of 13.7% over the period 2014-2019. A POS terminal is used to process card payments at several sectors such as retail (supermarket, hypermarket, specialty stores, gas stations, drugstores, and mass merchandise stores) and hospitality (restaurants, hotels, takeaways, and pubs). A POS terminal performs the following functions:- Reads the information off a customers credit/debit card- Checks the funds status in a customers bank account- Transfers funds from a customers account to a sellers account- Records the transaction- Prints the receipt of transaction- There are two types of POS terminal: fixed line POS and wireless POS.Get a Sample Research PDF with TOC:This report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global wireless POS terminals market for the period 2014-2019. To calculate the market size, the report considers the total shipments of wireless POS terminals. However, the report does not consider the following to estimate the market size: mPOS or any communication device that is being used as a POS terminal, sales of components used for the production of wireless POS terminals, and aftermarket sales of wireless POS terminals.Technavio's report, Global Wireless POS Terminals Market 2015-2019, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the Americas, APAC, and EMEA; it also covers the landscape of the global wireless POS terminals market and its growth prospects in the coming years. The report includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market.Key regions- Americas- APAC- EMEAKey vendors- Ingenico- Pax Technology- SZZT- VeriFoneOther prominent vendors- ATOS Worldline- CyberNet- Equinox- First Data- Keycorp- NCR- Spire PaymentsEnquiry at:Key questions answered in this report- What will the market size be in 2019 and what will the growth rate be?- What are the key market trends?- What is driving this market?- What are the challenges to market growth?- Who are the key vendors in this market space?- What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key vendors?- What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors?ResearchMoz is the worlds fastest growing collection of market research reports worldwide. Our database is composed of current market studies from over 100 featured publishers worldwide. Our market research databases integrate statistics with analysis from global, regional, country and company perspectives. ResearchMozs service portfolio also includes value-added services such as market research customization, competitive landscaping, and in-depth surveys, delivered by a team of experienced Research Coordinators.Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-621-2074Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Email: sales@researchmoz.usFollow us on LinkedIn at:
Global Forklift Truck Market Will hit at a 6.9% During Forecast Period to Reach US$ 55.9 Bn by the End of 2021
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Key driving factors identified in the global forklift truck market include expansion of warehouse space globally, growing e-commerce business across the globe, strong demand for forklift truck replacement in developed markets, and bulk investments in purchase of low-cost forklift trucks in emerging markets.Request to view Sample Report @Persistence Market Research (PMR), delivers key insights on the forklift truck market in its latest report titled Global Market Study on Forklift Trucks: Asia-Pacific to Witness Highest Growth by 2021 According to the report, the global forklift trucks market was valued at US$ 35.3 Bn in 2014 and is projected to expand at a CAGR of 6.9% during the forecast period to reach US$ 55.9 Bn by the end of 2021.Assessing the various factors driving the market growth, PMR analyst opined, The global material handling equipment market is growing significantly at an annual growth rate of 3%7%. Electric type forklift truck is one of the prominent segments in this market. These trucks are gaining traction due to the implementation of various advanced technologies and their growing application across various industries worldwide. The China market is projected to exhibit the fastest growth over the forecast period due to various factors, such as favorable economic environment and a need for technological advancements in in-house logistics in the country.From a regional perspective, Asia-Pacific was the largest market for forklift trucks in 2014, accounting for approximately 41.4% volume share of the overall market. Europe is projected to account for the second largest volume share of the global forklift truck market and expand at a CAGR of 4.6% over the forecast period, due to the positive outlook of the economy in Western Europe and expected rise in trade of goods, in turn leading to a significant growth in demand for forklift trucks in the region in the near future.Request to view Table of content @Key market participants covered in the report include Kion Group AG, Jungheinrich AG, Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc., Toyota Industries Corporation (TICO), Mitsubishi Nichiyu Forklift Co., Ltd., Crown Equipment Corporation, Anhui HeLi Co., Ltd., CLARK Material Handling Co., Ltd., and UniCarriers Americas Corporation.About UsPersistence Market Research (PMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. We have an experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, who use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each PMR Syndicated Research report covers a different sector - such as pharmaceuticals, chemical, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With a wider scope and stratified research methodology, our syndicated reports strive to serve clients and satisfy their overall research requirement.For information regarding permissions, contact:Persistence Market Research305 Broadway,7th FloorNew York City, NY 10007United StatesTel: +1 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWebsite:media@persistencemarketresearch.com
The musket is one of the earliest known firearms made by Chinese imperial armorers during the 18th century. (Photo : Twitter)
The first China-made firearm with imperial markings ever to be offered at an auction was sold for 1.895 million pounds ($2.5 million), the auction house Sotheby's London announced in a statement on Wednesday.
The antique musket, which was manufactured in imperial workshops, was created for the Emperor Qianlong of the Qing dynasty, which was regarded as the greatest collector and patron of the arts in Chinese history, according to the state-run Xinhua News Agency.
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Estimated at 1 million to 1.5 million pounds ($1.33 million t0 $1.99 million), the musket sparked a 10-minute bidding war before finally being sold to a private collector.
"This gun ranks as one of the most significant Chinese treasures ever to come to auction. Today's result will be remembered alongside landmark sales of other extraordinary objects that epitomize the pinnacle of imperial craftsmanship during the Qing dynasty," Robert Bradlow, senior director of Chinese Works of Art at Sotheby's London, told Xinhua.
"Over the last 10 years we've seen the market for historical Chinese works of art go from strength to strength, with collectors drawn from across the globe and exceptional prices achieved whether the sale is staged in London, Hong Kong or New York," he added.
The firearm bears the marks of the Qianlong Emperor on top of its barrel and, incised on the breech of the barrel, are four Chinese characters that denote the gun as "Supreme Grade, Number One." The grading makes it unique amongst the known extant guns from imperial workshops and one of the most important firearms in the Emperor Qianlong's armory.
Sotheby's London said the introduction of Western firearm technology in China ignited the production of muskets in imperial workshops, which had unquestionable advantages over the traditional bow and arrow for hunting.
Using only the most exquisite materials, imperial firearms were created in extremely limited quantities for Emperor Qianlong. And while experts find it unlikely for the Emperor to have held a gun in battle, he is said to have regularly hunted with a musket.
Sotheby's said the "Number One" firearm is closely related to six famous imperial Qianlong muskets in the collection of the Beijing Palace Museum, which were said to have been graded in the same manner as the gun but with a lower grade or number.
One of the most powerful leaders of ancient China, Emperor Qianlong (1711-1799) reigned for 59 years (1736-1795) as the longest-lived and de-facto longest-reigning emperor in Chinese history.
KSA Tire Market Value set to reach US$ 2,123 Mn in 2016 : PMR Report
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The KSA tire market is expected to witness robust growth. Demand for tires in KSA will be positively influenced by growing sales of four-wheeler vehicles.Driven by favorable government policies and lack of luxury or value-added taxations (VATs), the KSA tire market is anticipated to reach US$ 2,123 Mn in revenues by 2016. Growing demand for four-wheeler vehicles and robust sales of luxury and top-end cars will continue to influence the growth of the KSA tire market.Request to view Sample Report @Sales will continue to remain strong through the OEM channel, owing to consumer preference for buying tires directly from manufacturers. While overall revenues are expected to increase steadily, stringent regulation regarding used tires coupled with Implementation of stringent import standards by Saudi Arabia Standard Organization (SASO) can pose challenges to the growth of the market.By vehicle-type, the four-wheeler segment will continue to account for a leading share of the market. Demand will be substantial for cars and other passenger four-wheelers, owing to high temperatures recorded in Saudi Arabia throughout the year. As a result, the passenger cars will continue to be the most-prominent four-wheeler sub-segment, accounting to more than US$ 1,435 Mn revenues in 2016.Rising R&D initiatives by manufacturers will fuel the product-wise growth of the KSA tire market, which is expected to supplement the sales of pneumatic and non-pneumatic tires. Increasing penetration of internet and online transactions in Saudi Arabia is will continue to influence the growth of the market.Compared to the rest of the provinces, the Western and Central Provinces of the Kingdom are forecasted to represent a speedy growth in the demand for four wheeler vehicle tires. In the future, the provincial cities of Riyadh and Mecca are expected to be the concentrated hubs of Saudi Arabias total tire retail outlets.Request to view Table of content @Prominent global tire companies such as The Bridgestone Group, Continental AG, Pirelli & C Spa, and Michelin Group, will continue to strengthen their dominance in the KSA tire market. Companies such as Apollo Tyres Ltd., Yokohama Rubber Company Ltd., and Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company are also expected to create stiff competition for the existing key players in the tire market in KSA.About UsPersistence Market Research (PMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. We have an experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, who use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each PMR Syndicated Research report covers a different sector - such as pharmaceuticals, chemical, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With a wider scope and stratified research methodology, our syndicated reports strive to serve clients and satisfy their overall research requirement.For information regarding permissions, contact:Persistence Market Research305 Broadway,7th FloorNew York City, NY 10007United StatesTel: +1 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWebsite:media@persistencemarketresearch.com
Global Automotive Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Market is Expected To Grow at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2016 to 2024
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Stringent government regulations to equip TPMS in passenger vehicles, growing adoption of automotive safety systems and rising focus on improving fuel economy and reducing property damage as a result of accidents associated with low tire pressure are key factors expected to fuel demand for automotive TPMS over the forecast period (2016-2024).Request to view Sample Report @Direct TPMS is estimated to account for leading market revenue share of 99% by 2016 end. Global sales of direct TPMS is estimated to increase at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2016 to 2024. This high growth is due to expected implementation of legislations related to the TPMS in countries such as China, India, Japan, and Russia.By vehicle type, passenger car segment is the largest segment in the global automotive TPMS market. This segment is estimated to account for 79% value share of the market by 2016 end. Growing demand for luxury cars is expected to continue to push demand for automotive TPMS in passenger car segment. Mandatory use of TPMS in passenger vehicles in the U.S., South Korea, and the European Union is further fueling the growth of the passenger cars segment in the global automotive TPMS market.Aftermarket segment is projected to continue to account for a major market share in 2016. Direct TPMS requires replacement after a certain period of time and increasing vehicle parc is expected to drive sales through the aftermarket, especially in the U.S. and the European Union where the TPMS use mandatory for passenger vehicles.North America is estimated to remain the largest market for automotive TPMS, accounting for 47.3% revenue share of the market by 2016 end. Demand is expected to be robust in Europe, where adoption of TPMS mandating legislation would drive the growth of the market.Request to view Table of content @Sensata Technologies Inc., Continental AG, and Pacific Industrial Co., Ltd. are projected to continue to be the top three players in the global automotive TPMS market. Mergers & acquisitions remains a key business strategy for leading players in the global automotive TPMS market. Major players in the global TPMS market are also focusing on expanding their aftermarket businesses, as the aftermarket sales is a major revenue generation source for TPMS manufacturers.About UsPersistence Market Research (PMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. We have an experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, who use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each PMR Syndicated Research report covers a different sector - such as pharmaceuticals, chemical, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With a wider scope and stratified research methodology, our syndicated reports strive to serve clients and satisfy their overall research requirement.For information regarding permissions, contact:Persistence Market Research305 Broadway,7th FloorNew York City, NY 10007United StatesTel: +1 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWebsite:media@persistencemarketresearch.com
Global High Pressure Processing (HPP) Market Set to Grow Exponentially During the Forecast 2016 2024
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Half a decade ago, consumers seems to be gushing for good quality food products that has a high shelf life. Companies were actively looking for methods and equipment that can help foods to retain their natural flavor even after long shelf life of preservation. High pressure processing equipment is one such cutting-edge innovation. High pressure processing is a non-thermal preservation and pasteurization process that increases the shelf life of food, while retaining the original quality of food products. Unlike most conventional food processing system, this method accomplishes high hydrostatic pressure of 100 to 1000 MPa to process food products. It is due to its minimal negative effect that high pressure processing market (HPP) is finding great prominence globally. This billion dollar industry is anticipated to witness strong growth worldwide during the forecast period, 20152025.High Pressure Processing Market: Drivers & RestraintsRising concern for food safety along with increasing demand for process food that contains active ingredients is expected to fuel the overall high pressure processing market. High liquid containing foods are on upper edge. HPP extends the shelf life of foods by two to three folds when compared to non-pasteurized foods. However, budget restraints and significant heavy cost is expected to be a major challenge for this industry. To tackle these challenges some of the leading manufacturers are performing innovation to cut down the cost at a significant rate. Also, HPP is mostly preferred for foods containing high acids. It cannot be or used rarely for stabilizing foods containing low-acids.View Sample Report @High Pressure Processing Market: SegmentationHigh pressure processing market is broadly classified on the basis of equipment types, production size and end-use applications. Equipment such as batch processing and semi-continuous processing are available depending upon the size of production including low scaled to medium and high scale production capacities. Large scale production is normally seen in developed economies, while small and mid-scale are gaining prominence in developing economies.On the basis of applications, HPP market is broadly segmented into juices and beverages, vegetable products, meat products and seafood products. Juices and beverages along with meat products covers the majority of HPP applications. HPP equipment in vegetable products, though has a relatively low presence, is gaining wide prominence among food processing industries and is anticipated to witness above average growth rate during the forecast period, 2016 - 2026.High Pressure Processing Market: Region-wise OutlookHigh pressure processing equipment are in high demand in developed economies such as North America, Japan and Europe, however, market is gaining prominence in Asia Pacific and Latin America. The market is mainly consolidated in United States (U.S.), Europe and Japan. HPP in North America is widely used for processing of juices and beverages followed by seafood products and meat products and vegetable products. The trend is however different in Asia Pacific where consumption HPP is widely used for meat products and seafood products rather than juice products. HPP market is expected to witness significant growth in North America and Europe.Request TOC (desk of content material), Figures and Tables of the report:High Pressure Processing Market: Key PlayersSome of the key market players in high pressure processing market are Avure Technologies, Hiperbaric, Hormel Foods Corporation, Hain Celestial Group and American Pasteurization Company.The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data, and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to categories such as market segments, geographies, types, technology and applications.About UsPersistence Market Research (PMR) is a U.S.-based full-service market in-telligence firm specializing in syndicated research, custom research, and consulting services. PMR boasts market research expertise across the Healthcare, Chemicals and Materials, Technology and Media, Energy and Mining, Food and Beverages, Semiconductor and Electronics, Consumer Goods, and Shipping and Transportation industries. The company draws from its multi-disciplinary capabilities and high-pedigree team of analysts to share data that precisely corresponds to clients business needs.PMR stands committed to bringing more accuracy and speed to clients business decisions. From ready-to-purchase market research reports to customized research solutions, PMRs engagement models are highly flexi-ble without compromising on its deep-seated research values.ContactPersistence Market Research Pvt. Ltd305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.com
Aircraft Tyres Market: Recent Industry Trends and Projected Industry Size by 2015 to 2021
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Aircraft tyres are one of the most highly engineered products having significant complexity which require large number of raw materials pertaining to steel, cord fabric, artificial and natural rubber and other chemicals. Aircraft tyres have cords which serve as the reinforcing materials in the tyre that provide dimensional stability, supporting the aircraft weight, as well as keeping the tyres in shape different road conditions. Aircraft tyres play a vital role in the performance of the aircraft. Various reinforcement constructions are needed for different types of aircrafts based on their applications and load bearing requirements. They have different requirements of tyre fabrics and tyre cords as compared to other modes of transport such as light and heavy commercial vehicles, two wheelers, agricultural vehicles as they work on different road conditions, where each tyre has a different load bearing requirement.Request for Sample Report:The global demand for aircraft tyres has been significant due to growth from the aircraft industry, particularly commercial aircrafts, which have witnessed huge surge in demand for advanced and new aircraft, which are largely influenced by certain factors such as network expansion by new airlines as well as entry of new airlines. Other prominent factors such as replacing obsolete aircrafts, rise air passenger traffic, growing demand for fuel efficient aircrafts and healthy economic growth shown by emerging markets has also contributed towards the growth of the aircraft tyres market. Large scale corporations such as Goodyear, Bridgestone Corporation, and Dunlop are significantly involved in the manufacturing of aircraft tyres that are eco-friendly, more intelligent, economical, safer and less noisy. They are consumed in significant quantities for various civil and military applications, where military operation hold huge demand on aircraft tyres where loads can be highly substantial with speed going more than 225 miles per hour.Large scale companies such as Dunlop have been involved in the industry as a key player which manufactures tyres used in military aircrafts from the well known Vulcan and Spitfire to the modern F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, Heavy military aircraft such as C-130, the Tornado and the Hawk, and the latest A400M. The company serves various segments of the military aviation industry such as marine corps, naval forces and air forces across the world with tyres designed to give maximum operation characteristics in the fluctuating environmental conditions as well. In addition, Dunlop was awarded three year deal supply of aircraft tyres in July 2014 to Chinas privately owned airlines for the purpose of expending its footprint in regional airlines. Under the contract, Dunlop would be providing tyres for China Express Airlines Bombardier CRJ900 NextGen aircraft. In terms of agreements and joint ventures, The Triangle Group in 2012 collaborated with the Harbin Institute of Technology to design and manufacture arcraft tyres. Regionally, developed regions such as North America accounted for the largest market share in the aircraft tyres market, followed by Europe. Emerging regions such as Asia Pacific is likely to exhibit the fastest growth in the market owing to certain factors such as increasing disposable incomes of the individuals leading to rising air travel expenditures, entry of low cost airlines and infrastructure developments in economies such as India, Singapore and China.Request for Table of content:Bridgestone Corporation, Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, Goodyear, Michelin, and The Triangle Group are some of the key players present in the aircraft tyre industry.About Us:Persistence Market Research (PMR) is a third-platform research firm. Our research model is a unique collaboration of data analytics and market research methodology to help businesses achieve optimal performance.To support companies in overcoming complex business challenges, we follow a multi-disciplinary approach. At PMR, we unite various data streams from multi-dimensional sources. By deploying real-time data collection, big data, and customer experience analytics, we deliver business intelligence for organizations of all sizes.Contact Us:Persistence Market Research305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA - Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.commedia@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:
Global Antifungal Drugs Market Headed for Growth and Global Expansion by 2016 2024
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Antifungal drugs medication is done for treating fungal infections with minimal side effects on the body. Basically this fungal infections are organism that feed by breaking down the living tissue these fungi are commonly known as dermatophytes. Dermatophytes can cause infection of the skin, hair and nail as they have a unique ability to utilize the keratin. There are some common fungal infections such as ringworm, athletes foot, fungal n ail infection and vaginal thrush these can be treated by antifungal drugs. Antifungal drugs works by either killing the fungal cell by causing the contents of the cell to break and leak out and the cell to die and also by preventing the cell from growing. There are different types of antifungal medicines such as topical antifungals which are mostly applied on the skin, nails or hair, secondly there are oral antifungals which are consumed or swallowed in capsule, liquid form or pill and last is intravenous antifungal which are directly injected in the blood stream so as to prevent the fungal infection. The antifungal drugs are segmented as over-the-counter drug products particularly for dermal infections. Advancement in technology and drug delivery is expected to boost the global antifungal market.View Sample Report @According to Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approximately 46,000 new cases of Invasive candidiasis occur every year in U.S. which is a common bloodstream infection in U.S. The incidence rate of fungal infections such as Candida species causing infection vary substantially by geographic location and patient population and it is therefore causing challenge to healthcare professionals. The antifungal drugs market is mainly driven by the incidence and prevalence rate of the antifungal infections. Moreover due to benefits such as cost effective products, growing population of immunocompromised individuals and minimal side-effects physician are prescribing these products. Healthcare professionals are conducting patient education program for creating the awareness among the general population. However antifungal drugs market has some restraints such as presence of alternative therapies may hinder the growth of the antifungal drugs market.With the fungal disease leading to increase in the incidence of fungal infections Antifungal drugs market is increasing very rapidly. Moreover significant rising awareness among general population and rise in disposable income will boost the Antifungal drugs market during the forecast period.Geographically the Antifungal drugs market is segmented into five key regions: North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific and MEA region.Request TOC (desk of content material), Figures and Tables of the report:In the United States, Candidemia is the common form of invasive candidiasis and a common bloodstream infections. North America followed by Europe is dominating the Antifungal drugs market as high incidence of fungal infections and development of novel antifungal biopharmaceuticals. In Asia Pacific region the antifungal drugs market is expected to deliver significant growth due to the rise in per capita income in this region which is expected to further fuel market demand. This growth is also due to the increasing awareness towards personal safety and health care. China is expected to register significant market growth in antifungal drugs owing to the growing access of public with healthcare professional and growing economy. Also the antifungal drugs market is expected to become highly competitive due to entry of potential entrants in the market by the end of forecast period.About UsPersistence Market Research (PMR) is a U.S.-based full-service market in-telligence firm specializing in syndicated research, custom research, and consulting services. PMR boasts market research expertise across the Healthcare, Chemicals and Materials, Technology and Media, Energy and Mining, Food and Beverages, Semiconductor and Electronics, Consumer Goods, and Shipping and Transportation industries. The company draws from its multi-disciplinary capabilities and high-pedigree team of analysts to share data that precisely corresponds to clients business needs.PMR stands committed to bringing more accuracy and speed to clients business decisions. From ready-to-purchase market research reports to customized research solutions, PMRs engagement models are highly flexi-ble without compromising on its deep-seated research values.ContactPersistence Market Research Pvt. Ltd305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.com
Powder Coating Equipment Market: Headed for Growth and Global Expansion by 2021
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Powder coating is a covering applied on the material in order to protect the surface from rust or for decoration purpose. Powder coating is a type of coating where free flowing dry powder is applied on the surface of metal using different techniques. Powder coating is usually done to provide strong finishing which is not possible by conventional painting. Powder used for coating is made up of thermoplastic or thermoset polymer and is applied electrostatically on the surface. Powder coating is mainly used for household appliances, aluminum extrusion, automobiles and drum hardware. Electrostatic coating is one of the most widely deployed powder coating technology owing to its efficiency, simpler operation and cost effectiveness.Request for Sample Report:Owing to the benefits offered by powder coatings techniques, demand for powder coated materials have increased greatly around the globe. Being cost effective technology, powder coating is adopted by most of the interior designers to make infrastructure presentable and protected from hostile climatic conditions. Some other factors driving the market for powder coating equipment include resistance over chipping, scratching, wearing and fading of finishing work like other conventional paints. Furthermore, powder coating also helps in reducing the emission of volatile organic compounds on the surface. However, there are certain factors restraining the growth of powder coating equipment market. For instance, powder coating is not feasible for large areas. Also, it becomes difficult to apply powder coating over the complex geometric areas. Thus, this limits the applications of powder coating, posing a restraint to the market growth. Furthermore, usage of air compressors in certain techniques of powder coatings makes the operation more complex and tedious, thereby posing a drawback for market growth.The market for powder coating equipment is segmented on the basis of types of components, end-use applications and geography. Segmentation on the basis of types of components include ovens and booths, powder coat guns and coating powders. Powder coating gun is mainly used to spray powder on the surface and add electric current on powder to make it stick to the surface. On the basis of types of gun, powder coating market can be segmented into hotcoat powder coating gun, dual-voltage powder coating gun, electrostatic gun or corona gun, tribo gun, and others. Ovens and booths are primarily used to cure the powder coated material. Market for powder coating equipment on the basis of types of ovens and booths is segmented into convection cure ovens, infrared cure ovens and others. Powder coating finds its applications in numerous areas such as domestic usage, industrial application, coating rectification, building infrastructures, automobiles and others. Market segmentation for powder coating equipment on the basis of geography include North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.Request for Table of content:Some of the key players in the field of powder coating equipment include Gema Switzerland GmbH, Mitsuba Systems Pvt. Ltd., Red Line Industries Ltd., J.Wagner GmbH, Eastwood Company and Nordson Corporation among others.About Us:Persistence Market Research (PMR) is a third-platform research firm. Our research model is a unique collaboration of data analytics and market research methodology to help businesses achieve optimal performance.To support companies in overcoming complex business challenges, we follow a multi-disciplinary approach. At PMR, we unite various data streams from multi-dimensional sources. By deploying real-time data collection, big data, and customer experience analytics, we deliver business intelligence for organizations of all sizes.Contact Us:Persistence Market Research305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA - Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.commedia@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:
At a CAGR of 29.22%, Global Hybrid Cloud Market is Expected to grow over Forecast period 2015-2019
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Albany, NY, Nov 14: Hybrid cloud is a combination of on-premises, public, and private cloud computing, where applications can switch between private and public cloud depending on the workload. Enterprises are increasingly using the hybrid cloud model, as critical applications can be hosted more securely on private clouds compared to public cloud. Hybrid cloud computing helps enterprises achieve maximum usability while minimizing the shortcomings, without the need for constant internet connectivity.The global hybrid cloud market to grow at a CAGR of 29.22% over the period 2014-2019. This report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global hybrid cloud market for the period 2015-2019. To calculate the market size, it considers the revenue generated from the following.- Software licenses and subscriptions cost- Software implementation and maintenance costGet a Sample Research PDF with TOC:The report covers segmentation of the market by delivery model:- IaaS- PaaS- SaaSThe report also presents the vendor landscape and a corresponding detailed analysis of the four leading vendors in the market. In addition, it discusses the major drivers that influence the growth of the market. It also outlines the challenges faced by vendors and the market at large, as well as the key trends emerging in the market.Technavio's report, Global Hybrid Cloud Market 2015-2019, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts.Key regions- Americas- APAC- EMEAKey vendors- Amazon Web Services- Microsoft- Rackspace- VMwareOther prominent vendors- Atlantic.Net- BLACKIRON Data- Cisco Systems- DataDirect NetworksEnquiry at:Key questions answered in this report- What will the market size be in 2019 and what will the growth rate be?- What are the key market trends?- What is driving this market?- What are the challenges to market growth?- Who are the key vendors in this market space?- What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key vendors?- What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors?ResearchMoz is the worlds fastest growing collection of market research reports worldwide. Our database is composed of current market studies from over 100 featured publishers worldwide. Our market research databases integrate statistics with analysis from global, regional, country and company perspectives. ResearchMozs service portfolio also includes value-added services such as market research customization, competitive landscaping, and in-depth surveys, delivered by a team of experienced Research Coordinators.Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-621-2074Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Email: sales@researchmoz.usFollow us on LinkedIn at:
Hydrogen Purifiers Market Advanced technologies & growth opportunities in global Industry by 2024.
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A hydrogen purifier is a device that is used to purify hydrogen, especially if the hydrogen product is obtained from hydrocarbon sources. Hydrogen is used in various industrial processes, especially in the refining industry. Hydrogen is also a major component of off-gases generated in various refinery processes. Traditionally, off-gases were used as an energy source by burning. However, due to reduced margins and stricter regulations, technologies for the recovery of hydrogen are getting widespread attention. Hydrogen manufacturers are highly sensitive to the cost of hydrogen purification systems because hydrogen basically is a cost to them. A steady growth of this market is expected, due to increased usage of heavy oils in refining and higher demand for high-purity hydrogen as well as lower profit margins and stricter environmental regulations.Interpret a Competitive outlook Analysis Report with PDF Brochure:The most common types of hydrogen purifiers are palladium membrane hydrogen purifiers, dense thin-metal membrane hydrogen purifiers, pressure swing adsorption, and catalytic recombination or deoxygenation purifiers. The pressure swing adsorption technique is the most well-developed and established process for hydrogen purification. This technology is based on physical binding of molecules of a gas to a solid adsorbent material such as activated carbon, silica gel, carbon molecular sieves, and zeolites. It makes use of the fact that hydrogen has very low polarity and highly weak attractive force with the adsorbent material. Dense thin-metal membrane hydrogen purifiers are relatively less expensive and simple to use.However, the level of hydrogen purity obtained is not acceptable for several high-tech applications. Catalytic recombination or deoxygenation purifiers are used to remove oxygen impurities by the use of a dryer after oxygen reacts with hydrogen to form water vapor. For niche applications such as those in the semiconductor industry, palladium membrane hydrogen purifiers have no alternative. Pd is the only technology that provides absolute purification, which means only H2 can diffuse across the Pd membrane. Most of H2 supplied in developing countries such as China and India is of variable consistency. This leads to impurity spikes in the feed that other technologies which work by adsorbing some proportion of impurities from the H2 stream struggle to contain. The cost of replacement of contaminated epiwafers caused by these impurities as well as the downtime required for the tool clean-up is prohibitive to manufactures. Hence, palladium membrane hydrogen purifiers is a viable technology used for high-end applications.Browse Report with Full TOC at :The use of hydrogen purification technologies is poised to experience robust growth in the U.S., China, Russia, Japan, Canada, and India in refining and electronics industries. The hydrogen purifiers industry in Asia Pacific is expected to witness dynamic growth. Due to slowdown in the refining industry in Western Europe, growth of the hydrogen purifiers market in this region would be stagnant. The spurt in oil production in the Middle East, especially in Iran and Saudi Arabia, is likely to lead to increased number of refining activities, and consequently, greater use of hydrogen purifiers. The rise in demand for traditional and new applications for ultra-high-purity hydrogen is driving the market for hydrogen purifiers, particularly in the electronic devices hubs such as the U.S, Japan, China, and South Korea.Key players in the hydrogen purifiers market are Honeywell UOP, Yangtze Energy Technologies Inc., Advanced Extraction Technologies Inc., Xebec, Petronas, SAES Pure Gas Inc., Schmack Carbotech GmbH, Air Products, Chart Industries, and Ally Hi-Tech.The report offers a comprehensive evaluation of the market. It does so via in-depth qualitative insights, historical data, and verifiable projections about market size. The projections featured in the report have been derived using proven research methodologies and assumptions. By doing so, the research report serves as a repository of analysis and information for every facet of the market, including but not limited to: Regional markets, technology, types, and applications.About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each TMR syndicated research report covers a different sector - such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, TMRs syndicated reports strive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207
Hand Dryers Market to Surge at a CAGR of 11.9% between 2015 and 2023
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Hand dryers play an important role in washroom hygiene. It is an electrical device, generally installed in public washrooms for the purpose of drying hands. Hand dryers either operate automatically by using sensors or manually by using a push button. The major end users of hand dryers include food processing and food service, hotels, office buildings, and healthcare among others.Food processing and food service which includes restaurants and fast food joints is the largest end user segment of the hand dryers market. In addition, rise in installation of hand dryers in school, colleges, railway stations, and malls among others is expected to drive the market growth during the forecast period. In the next few years, hand dryers are most likely to be installed in homes which are further expected to influence the market positively. Moreover, global hand dryers market is expanding rapidly during the forecast period attributed to increasing demand for high end appliances which help in saving nature and power as well.Get More Information:Economic slowdown has put corporate and individuals under pressure for cutting down operation expenses. This has led to installation of hand dryers in washrooms which proves to be economical in comparison to paper towels. Although initial investment for installation of hand dryer is high, it can substantially reduce the cost of operations compared to paper towels. In addition, washrooms in hotels, airports, and offices are equipped with appliances that not only look stylish but also use minimum power and offer maximum advantage.Moreover, demand for faster and hygienic hand drying is leading to increasing incorporation of hand dryers in public washrooms. Demand for ecofriendly appliances is increasing due to global warming and rise in awareness about ecology and sustenance. Paper towels are produced by cutting down trees, which is having a detrimental effect on the environment. Hand dryers help in saving power as well as paper, reducing solid waste generated by used paper towels. All these factors are positively contributing to the market growth throughout the forecast period.However, high noise level of hand dryers is a major concern especially in areas such as offices, educational institutes, or hotel rooms among others. This factor is negatively impacting the installation of hand dryers, which in turn is restraining the market growth. Moreover, requirement of high initial investment upfront is further hampering the market growth during the forecast period. Major opportunities for key players in the market lies in technological advancements focusing on overcoming challenges of high noise level and preventing growth of microbial contaminates in washrooms.Browse The Report:The competitive profiling of the key industry participants in the global hand dryers market across four broad geographic regions is included in the study. The key players have also been profiled on the basis of company overview, financial overview, business strategies, and the recent developments in the field of hand drying. Also, the market attractive analysis of the major end user areas has been provided in the report, in order to offer a deep insight of global hand dryers market.A comprehensive analysis of the market dynamics that is inclusive of market drivers, restraints and opportunities is included in the purview of the report. Market dynamics are the distinctive factors which impact the market growth, thereby helping to understand the ongoing trends of the global hand dryer market. Therefore, the report provides the forecast of the global market for the period from 2015 to 2023, along with offering an inclusive study of the hand dryers market.Some of the major players in the hand dryers market are: American Dryer, Inc. (U.S.), Bradley Corporation (U.S.), Dyson Ltd. (U.K.), Electrostar Gmbh (Germany), Excel Dryer, Inc. (U.S.), Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (Japan), and World Dryer Corporation (U.S.) among others.About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
SGS Receives Outstanding Customer Feedback for Baseefa Certification
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SGS has received outstanding feedback on its hazardous area equipment certification services in a recent customer survey, with 95% of customers declaring themselves pleased with the service they have received. Two clear terms dominated the feedback helpful and knowledgeable. Most respondents felt that these two traits best summed up the service they received from SGS.When certification must be carried out on equipment in hazardous areas, it can be an arduous task, something that is not relished by most manufacturers. Constantly changing standards, tightening budgets and increased pressure to deliver products more quickly to market, mean that manufacturers are facing immense challenges when trying to stay safe and compliant. SGS knows that retaining helpful and knowledgeable staff will have a direct impact upon the successful outcome of a project, which, in turn, will help to enhance the overall experience of certification and help protect staff, facilities and the environment.SGS brings unrivalled knowledge, allied to exceptional technical support and customer focus, to help deliver efficient, trusted certification. SGS Baseefa has issued several hundred ATEX certificates, and over three hundred IECEx certificates, so far this year. That is more IECEx certificates than any other body. SGS is justly proud of the number of safe products they have helped bring to the market.Working with SGS to achieve Baseefa certification gives manufacturers access to a wealth of knowledge and experience. Their engineers understand the standards and test requirements needed to certify correctly and in the most efficient timeframe. In addition to training and certification in ATEX and IECEx, SGS can also assist with compliance in other regions, including China, Korea, Russia and Customs Union, and Brazil.With 95% of their customers reporting a positive experience, it is clear that working with SGS is one of the best ways to keep you compliant, producing safe products for the hazardous area market, and with all certifications in place to help you stay operational.For more information, please contact:SGS Baseefa LtdEmail: cts.media@sgs.comWebsite:About SGSSGS is the worlds leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 85,000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 1,800 offices and laboratories around the world.1, Mons CalpeChitcombe RoadBroad OakRyeEast SussexTN31 6EU
The new U.S. President receives mixed reactions on his victory. (Photo : Getty Images)
Chinese technology giant Alibaba fell a 5 percent fall in stock prices as news of Donald Trump's victory spread across the globe.
Alibaba's stocks were high in October by 13 percent but experienced a dip for two consecutive days after the new U.S. president was declared.
However, the fall of Alibaba's stocks did not affect sales as of yet. American consumers compose 10 percent of Alibaba's subscribers.
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Joe Tsai, vice chairman of Alibaba, said, "China is going to be and already is the source of consumer demand and the source of capital for America."
He added, "So if you're the American president, you have to pay a lot of attention to that because your job is to create a lot of jobs in American society. And if you don't have Chinese consumers being engaged and buying American products, and Chinese investors can't invest in the United States, and create more American jobs, then you'd be in trouble."
Jack Ma, founder, and CEO of the Chinese company, also said that President Donald Trump must work for a healthy relationship with China or else there will be a "disaster."
Various media personalities also voiced out their opinion on the Donald Trump news.
"One can only hope that someone had the presence of mind to put a blindfold and ear plugs on the statue of Abraham Lincoln, sitting on a national mall," wrote David Smith, a correspondent for U.K. newspaper "The Guardian."
In Italy, another newspaper wrote, "American democracy is sick. . . .The mutual delegitimization [of the candidates] is total. It's hard to find in the recent past a similar level of animosity, contempt, insult."
Waterproofing Membrane Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Growth, Outlook, Opportunities and Forecasts to 2016: Acute Market Reports
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This report studies sales (consumption) of Waterproofing Membrane in United States market, focuses on the top players, with sales, price, revenue and market share for each player, coveringBrowse the complete report at:Soprema GroupSikaFosrocGAFIcopal GroupTehnoNICOLPolyglassImperbit MembraneGeneral MembraneCarlisleModern WaterproofingChovABauderARDEX GroupHenkel PolybitRenolitTegola CanadeseIndexHansukSchluter-SystemsProtecto WrapGraceColasVetroasfaltoTamkoMultiplan YaltmOriental YuhongCKSHongyuan WaterproofTangshan DeshengSplit by product types, with sales, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, can be divided intoType IType IIType IIISplit by applications, this report focuses on sales, market share and growth rate of Waterproofing Membrane in each application, can be divided intoApplication 1Application 2Application 3Browse full report with TOC:1 Waterproofing Membrane Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Waterproofing Membrane1.2 Classification of Waterproofing Membrane1.2.1 Type I1.2.2 Type II1.2.3 Type III1.3 Application of Waterproofing Membrane1.3.1 Application 11.3.2 Application 21.3.3 Application 31.4 United States Market Size Sales (Value) and Revenue (Volume) of Waterproofing Membrane (2011-2021)1.4.1 United States Waterproofing Membrane Sales and Growth Rate (2011-2021)1.4.2 United States Waterproofing Membrane Revenue and Growth Rate (2011-2021)2 United States Waterproofing Membrane Competition by Manufacturers2.1 United States Waterproofing Membrane Sales and Market Share of Key Manufacturers (2015 and 2016)2.2 United States Waterproofing Membrane Revenue and Share by Manufactures (2015 and 2016)2.3 United States Waterproofing Membrane Average Price by Manufactures (2015 and 2016)2.4 Waterproofing Membrane Market Competitive Situation and Trends2.4.1 Waterproofing Membrane Market Concentration Rate2.4.2 Waterproofing Membrane Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Manufacturers2.4.3 Mergers & Acquisitions, ExpansionView all reports of this category:3 United States Waterproofing Membrane Sales (Volume) and Revenue (Value) by Type (2011-2016)3.1 United States Waterproofing Membrane Sales and Market Share by Type (2011-2016)3.2 United States Waterproofing Membrane Revenue and Market Share by Type (2011-2016)3.3 United States Waterproofing Membrane Price by Type (2011-2016)3.4 United States Waterproofing Membrane Sales Growth Rate by Type (2011-2016)4 United States Waterproofing Membrane Sales (Volume) by Application (2011-2016)4.1 United States Waterproofing Membrane Sales and Market Share by Application (2011-2016)4.2 United States Waterproofing Membrane Sales Growth Rate by Application (2011-2016)4.3 Market Drivers and OpportunitiesContact:Chris PaulOffice No 01, 1st Floor,Aditi Mall, Baner, Pune,MH, 411045 IndiaPhone (India): +91 7755981103Toll Free (US/Canada): +1-855-455-8662Email: sales@acutemarketreports.comWebsite:About Acute Market Reports:Acute Market Reports is the most sufficient collection of market intelligence services online. It is your only source that can fulfill all your market research requirements. We provide online reports from over 100 best publishers and upgrade our collection regularly to offer you direct online access to the worlds most comprehensive and recent database with expert perceptions on worldwide industries, products, establishments and trends.Our team consists of highly motivated market research professionals and they are accountable for creating the groundbreaking technology that we utilize in our search engine operations to easily recognize the most current market research reports online.Office No 101, 1st Floor , Aditi Mall, Baner, Pune, MH, 411045 India
Asia pacific with strong demand from China and India flooring market size to reach 180 billion, forecast 7 years
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Flooring market size is estimated to be valued at USD 418.86 billion by 2022, as per a new research report by Global Market Insights, Inc. Innovative solutions in construction coupled with escalating demand for insulation is likely to boost global demand.Soft coverings market size was the largest revenue generator, and the segment was valued USD 90.75 billion in 2014. It is anticipated to grow at 6.2% CAGR from 2015 to 2022 due to its dust-binding characteristics, noise-reducing effect and offers comfort. Non-resilient flooring market was over 30% of the share in 2014.Request For Sample of This Research Report@Increasing need in the construction industry has positively impacted consumption. There exist various innovative solutions that are durable and require low maintenance as compared to other conventional materials such as stone, ceramic and wood. As a result, consumers are adopting more cost effective and eco-friendly solutions.Rise in urbanization along with evolving consumer lifestyles is expected to be a significant opportunity for industry participants. Development of hassle-free installation techniques and availability of innovative construction solutions coupled with growing demand for environmentally sustainable products are among major flooring market trends.Presently, designers are seeking out eco-friendly materials for their clients; this has led to the development of several environmentally viable choices. Lack of awareness among consumers coupled with environmental concerns is likely to hamper demand over the next six years.Inquire Here Before Buying Industry Report@Key insights from the report include:The flooring market was 193.51 billion square feet in 2014; it will grow at 6.0% CAGR to reach 314.47 billion square feet by 2022.Industrial flooring market size was valued at over USD 12 billion in 2014 and is expected to surpass USD 20 billion by 2022. Residential sector is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 7.2% from 2015 to 2022 owing to home renovation and improvement projects.Asia Pacific flooring market share was more than 40% of the global demand in 2014. Surging real-estate industry and developing infrastructure facilities are driving the demand growth in this region.Recovery in the housing sector is expected to favorably impact the mature North America and Europe flooring market. There is a high degree of competition from Chinese players, and European manufacturers expect strong potential in high-end segments. Increasing labor and energy costs coupled with reduced export subsidies may pose a challenge to industry participants.Key flooring manufacturers include Mohawk Industries, Shaw Industries, Beaulieu of America and Interface. Other manufacturers include Congoleum, Interface Inc, Armstrong World Industries, Mannington Mills Inc, Pergo, and Polyfor Ltd.The industry is highly competitive on account of considerable initiatives undertaken by suppliers to provide enhanced solutions and drive product differentiation. Major industry participants focus on developing eco-friendly, cost effective, durable and low maintenance solutions for an array of applications.Read our insightful industry blogs:Contact Us:Jack DavisCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone: 1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1 888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb: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.29L Atlantic Avenue, Suite L 105Ocean View, Delaware
Research Focused On the Alere Inc. (ALR) - Product Pipeline Analysis, 2016
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"The Report Alere Inc. (ALR) - Product Pipeline Analysis, 2016 Update provides information on pricing, market analysis, shares, forecast, and company profiles for key industry participants. - MarketResearchReports.biz"Alere Inc. (Alere) is one of the leading providers of point-of-care diagnostics solutions and services with focus on cardiology, womens health, infectious diseases, diabetes, oncology, and toxicology. It offers testing and monitoring products including point-of-care and laboratory tests within the infectious disease, cardiometabolic disease, toxicology and patient self-testing domains. It also offers diabetic testing supplies, including blood glucose monitors, test strips, lancets, lancing devices, and control solutions, and other related medical supplies in the US. Alere offers its products and services to hospitals, reference laboratories, point-of-care settings, self-insured employees, wholesale and retail drug stores, and mass merchandisers. The company operates through subsidiaries and a network of distributors in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Africa. Alere is headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, the US.This report is a source for data, analysis, and actionable intelligence on the companys portfolio of pipeline products. The report provides key information about the company, its major products and brands.The report enhances decision making capabilities and help to create effective counter strategies to gain competitive advantage.View Rpeort At :Scope:The report reviews detailed company profile with information on business description, key company facts, major products and services, key competitors, key employees, locations and subsidiaries and recent developmentsThe report analyzes all pipeline products in development for the company Alere Inc.The report provides pipeline analysis on all pipeline products of the company (by equipment type, by indication, by development stage, and by trial status)The report covers detailed information on each pipeline product with information on pipeline territory, stage of development, device class, regulatory path, indication(s), application(s) and estimated launch dateThe report provides detailed description of products in development, technical specification and functionsThe report also covers ongoing clinical trials (wherever applicable) with information on trial name, trial objective, sponsor, trial design , trial status and phase, estimated start and end date.Reasons to Buy:Develop business strategies by understanding the trends and developments driving the medical devices pipeline and technology landscapeDesign and develop your product development, marketing and sales strategies by understanding the competitor portfolioTo formulate effective Research & Development strategiesDevelop market-entry and market expansion strategiesExploit in-licensing and out-licensing opportunities by identifying products, most likely to ensure a robust returnPlan mergers and acquisitions effectively by identifying key players of the most promising pipelineIdentify emerging players with potentially strong product portfolio and create effective counter-strategies to gain competitive advantageDevelop competition strategies by identifying the status and likely launch of the competitors pipeline products through review of the clinical trials, stage and of development, etcIdentify, understand and capitalize the next high-value products that your competitor would add in its portfolioDownload Sample copy of this Report at :Table of ContentsTable of Contents 2List of Tables 5List of Figures 8Alere Inc. Company Overview 9Alere Inc. Company Snapshot 9Alere Inc. Pipeline Products and Clinical Trials Overview 10Alere Inc. Pipeline Analysis Overview 13Business Description 13Key Facts 14Alere Inc. - Major Products and Services 15Alere Inc. Pipeline Products by Development Stage 17Alere Inc. Pipeline Products Overview 20AD Index 20AD Index Product Overview 20Afinion hsCRP Assay 21Afinion hsCRP Assay Product Overview 21Afinion Lipid/Cholesterol Test Panel 22Afinion Lipid/Cholesterol Test Panel Product Overview 22Afinion PT Test - Capillary Blood 23Afinion PT Test - Capillary Blood Product Overview 23AIMS - Borrelia VisE-1/pepC10 Test 24AIMS - Borrelia VisE-1/pepC10 Test Product Overview 24AIMS System - Cardiolipin IgG Test 25AIMS System - Cardiolipin IgG Test Product Overview 25AIMS System - HIV-1 Test 26AIMS System - HIV-1 Test Product Overview 26AIMS System - Syphilis Test 27AIMS System - Syphilis Test Product Overview 27AIMS System - ToRCH IgG Test 28AIMS System - ToRCH IgG Test Product Overview 28Alere i RSV 29Alere i RSV Product Overview 29Alere i RSV - CLIA Waived 30Alere i RSV - CLIA Waived Product Overview 30Alere i System - B.Pertussis Assay 31Alere i System - B.Pertussis Assay Product Overview 31Alere i System - C. Difficile 32Alere i System - C. Difficile Product Overview 32Alere i System - CT/GC 33Alere i System - CT/GC Product Overview 33Alere i System - GBS Assay 34Alere i System - GBS Assay Product Overview 34Alere i System - HBV Assay 35Alere i System - HBV Assay Product Overview 35Alere i System - M.P/C.P Assay 36Alere i System - M.P/C.P Assay Product Overview 36Alere i System - MRSA Assay 37Alere i System - MRSA Assay Product Overview 37Alere i System - Norovirus Assay 38Alere i System - Norovirus Assay Product Overview 38Alere q Analyzer - Ebola Assay 39Alere q Analyzer - Ebola Assay Product Overview 39Alere q Analyzer - HCV Assay 40Alere q Analyzer - HCV Assay Product Overview 40Alere q Analyzer - Tuberculosis Assay 41Alere q Analyzer - Tuberculosis Assay Product Overview 41Alere Reader 42Alere Reader Product Overview 42Alere Reader - Healthcare Associated Infection Assay 43Alere Reader - Healthcare Associated Infection Assay Product Overview 43Alere Reader - Respiratory Infection Assay 44Alere Reader - Respiratory Infection Assay Product Overview 44MarketResearchReports.biz is the most comprehensive collection of market research reports. MarketResearchReports.Biz services are specially designed to save time and money for our clients. We are a one stop solution for all your research needs, our main offerings are syndicated research reports, custom research, subscription access and consulting services. We serve all sizes and types of companies spanning across various industries.State Tower90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074Website:E: sales@marketresearchreports.biz
Asia-Pacific Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market Trends, Estimates And Forecasts Outlook to 2022
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"The Report Asia-Pacific Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market Outlook to 2022 provides information on pricing, market analysis, shares, forecast, and company profiles for key industry participants. - MarketResearchReports.biz"GlobalDatas new report, "Asia-Pacific Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market Outlook to 2022", provides key market data on the Asia-Pacific Micro-Electromechanical Sensors market. The report provides value, in millions of US dollars, volume (in units) and average price data (in US dollars), within market.The report also provides distribution shares data for the market category, and global corporate-level profiles of the key market participants. Based on the availability of data for the particular category and country, information related to pipeline products, news and deals is available in the report.The data in the report is derived from dynamic market forecast models. GlobalData uses epidemiology and capital equipment-based models to estimate and forecast the market size. The objective is to provide information that represents the most up-to-date data of the industry possible.The epidemiology-based forecasting model makes use of epidemiology data gathered from research publications and primary interviews with physicians to establish the target patient population and treatment flow patterns for individual diseases and therapies. Using prevalence and incidence data and diagnosed and treated population, the epidemiology-based forecasting model arrives at the final numbers.Capital equipment-based forecasting models are done based on the installed base, replacements and new sales of a specific device/equipment in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics and diagnostic centers. Data for average number of units per facility is used to arrive at the installed base of the capital equipment. Sales for a particular year are arrived at by calculating the replacement units and new units (additional and first-time purchases).Extensive interviews are conducted with key opinion leaders (KOLs), physicians and industry experts to validate the market size and distribution share data and analysis.Download Sample copy of this Report at :Scope- Market size for Micro-Electromechanical Sensors market.- Annualized market revenues (USD million), volume (units) and average selling price ($) data for each of the market categories. Data is provided from 2008 to 2015 and forecast to 2022.- 2015 distribution shares data for Micro-Electromechanical Sensors market.Reasons to buy- Develop business strategies by identifying the key market segments poised for strong growth in the future.- Develop market-entry and market expansion strategies.- Design competition strategies by identifying who-stands-where in the market.- Develop investment strategies by identifying the key market segments expected to register strong growth in the near future.- What are the key distribution channels and whats the most preferred mode of product distribution - Identify, understand and capitalize.Read our latest Press Release atTable of Contents1 Table of Contents1 Table of Contents 21.1 List of Tables 41.2 List of Figures 52 Introduction 62.1 What Is This Report About? 62.3 Definitions of Markets Covered in the Report 63 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Asia-Pacific 73.1 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Asia-Pacific, Revenue ($m), 2008-2022 73.2 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Asia-Pacific, Revenue ($m), 2008-2015 93.3 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Asia-Pacific, Revenue ($m), 2015-2022 103.4 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Asia-Pacific, Volume (Units), 2008-2022 113.5 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Asia-Pacific, Volume (Units), 2008-2015 133.6 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Asia-Pacific, Volume (Units), 2015-2022 144 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Australia 154.1 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Australia, Revenue ($m), 2008-2015 154.2 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Australia, Revenue ($m), 2015-2022 164.3 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Australia, Volume (Units), 2008-2015 174.4 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Australia, Volume (Units), 2015-2022 184.5 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Australia, Average Price ($), 2008-2022 194.6 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Australia, Distribution Share by Revenue ($m), 2014-2015 205 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, China 215.1 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, China, Revenue ($m), 2008-2015 215.2 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, China, Revenue ($m), 2015-2022 225.3 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, China, Volume (Units), 2008-2015 235.4 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, China, Volume (Units), 2015-2022 245.5 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, China, Average Price ($), 2008-2022 255.6 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, China, Distribution Share by Revenue ($m), 2014-2015 266 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, India 276.1 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, India, Revenue ($m), 2008-2015 276.2 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, India, Revenue ($m), 2015-2022 286.3 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, India, Volume (Units), 2008-2015 296.4 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, India, Volume (Units), 2015-2022 306.5 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, India, Average Price ($), 2008-2022 316.6 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, India, Distribution Share by Revenue ($m), 2014-2015 327 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Japan 337.1 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Japan, Revenue ($m), 2008-2015 337.2 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Japan, Revenue ($m), 2015-2022 347.3 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Japan, Volume (Units), 2008-2015 357.4 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Japan, Volume (Units), 2015-2022 367.5 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Japan, Average Price ($), 2008-2022 377.6 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, Japan, Distribution Share by Revenue ($m), 2014-2015 388 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, South Korea 398.1 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, South Korea, Revenue ($m), 2008-2015 398.2 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, South Korea, Revenue ($m), 2015-2022 408.3 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, South Korea, Volume (Units), 2008-2015 418.4 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, South Korea, Volume (Units), 2015-2022 428.5 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, South Korea, Average Price ($), 2008-2022 438.6 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market, South Korea, Distribution Share by Revenue ($m), 2014-2015 449 Micro-Electromechanical Sensors Market Pipeline Products 45MarketResearchReports.biz is the most comprehensive collection of market research reports. 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Belize Electricity Limited - Power Plants and SWOT Analysis And Forecast Report 2016
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MarketResearchReports.Biz announces addition of new report" Belize Electricity Limited - Power Plants and SWOT Analysis, 2016 Update "to its database.The report contains a detailed description of the power generation companys business operations, history, corporate strategy, and business structure. This report contains a detailed SWOT analysis, information on key employees (executives), and major products and services.View Report At :Scope- Major Power Plants (assets) - summarized and detailed information about the power plants (assets).- Operational Metrics (capacity, generation, revenue, sales, number of consumers).- Business description - A detailed description of the companys operations and business divisions.- Corporate strategy - GlobalDatas summarization of the companys business strategy.- SWOT analysis - A detailed analysis of the companys strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats.- Company history - Progression of key events associated with the company.- Major products and services - A list of major products, services and brands- Key employees - A list of the key executives and personnel heading key departments/functions.- Executive biographies - A brief summary of the executives employment history.- Financial deals - Coverage of key financial deals from 2006 onwards, depending upon information availability- Important locations and subsidiaries - A list of key locations and subsidiaries of the company, including contact details.Download Sample copy of this Report at :Reasons to buy- Gain key insights into the company for academic or business research purposes. Key elements such as SWOT analysis, corporate strategy and major products and services are incorporated in the profile to assist in various business decisions (M&A and JV).- Identify potential customers and suppliers with this reports analysis of the companys business structure, operations, major products and services and business strategy.- Understand and respond to competitors business structure and strategies with GlobalDatas detailed SWOT analysis. In this, the companys core strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats are analyzed, providing an up to date objective view of the company.Read our latest Press Release atTable of ContentsTable of Contents 2List of Tables 3Company Snapshot 4Key Information 4Company Overview 4SWOT Snapshot 4Operational Metrics 5Belize Electricity Limited, Operational Metrics, By Capacity 5Belize Electricity Limited, Operational Metrics, By Generation 5Belize Electricity Limited, Operational Metrics, By Customers 5Belize Electricity Limited, Operational Metrics, By Segmental Information 5Belize Electricity Limited, Operational Metrics, By Sales 6Belize Electricity Limited, Thermal Power Plants 7Belize Electricity Limited, Thermal Power Plants, Belize 7Business Description 7Business Overview 7Major Products and Services 7History 8SWOT Analysis 9Overview 9Belize Electricity Limited Strengths 9Diverse Sources of Supply 9Operational Performance 9Support from Government 9Belize Electricity Limited Weaknesses 10Technical Faults 10Belize Electricity Limited Opportunities 10Strategic Initiatives 10Expansion Initiatives 10Positive Outlook for Electricity Demand: Belize 10Belize Electricity Limited Threats 10Seasonal Variations and Climatic Conditions 10Transmission and Distribution Losses 11Operational Issues 11Key Employees 12Key Employee Biographies 13Company Statement 14Locations And Subsidiaries 16Head Office 16Other Locations & Subsidiaries 16Appendix 17Report Scope 17GlobalData Coverage 17Benchmarking 17GlobalDatas Methodology 17Secondary Research 17Primary Research 17Contact Us 18Disclaimer 18MarketResearchReports.biz is the most comprehensive collection of market research reports. MarketResearchReports.Biz services are specially designed to save time and money for our clients. We are a one stop solution for all your research needs, our main offerings are syndicated research reports, custom research, subscription access and consulting services. We serve all sizes and types of companies spanning across various industries.State Tower90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074Website:E: sales@marketresearchreports.biz
New Study: Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand - Power Plants and SWOT Analysis, 2016
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"Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand - Power Plants and SWOT Analysis, 2016 Update " is the latest addition to MarketResearchReports.Biz industry research reports collection.The report contains a detailed description of the power generation companys business operations, history, corporate strategy, and business structure. This report contains a detailed SWOT analysis, information on key employees (executives), and major products and services.View Report At :Scope- Major Power Plants (assets) - summarized and detailed information about the power plants (assets).- Operational Metrics (capacity, generation, revenue, sales, number of consumers).- Business description - A detailed description of the companys operations and business divisions.- Corporate strategy - GlobalDatas summarization of the companys business strategy.- SWOT analysis - A detailed analysis of the companys strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats.- Company history - Progression of key events associated with the company.- Major products and services - A list of major products, services and brands- Key employees - A list of the key executives and personnel heading key departments/functions.- Executive biographies - A brief summary of the executives employment history.- Financial deals - Coverage of key financial deals from 2006 onwards, depending upon information availability- Important locations and subsidiaries - A list of key locations and subsidiaries of the company, including contact details.Reasons to buy- Gain key insights into the company for academic or business research purposes. Key elements such as SWOT analysis, corporate strategy and major products and services are incorporated in the profile to assist in various business decisions (M&A and JV).- Identify potential customers and suppliers with this reports analysis of the companys business structure, operations, major products and services and business strategy.- Understand and respond to competitors business structure and strategies with GlobalDatas detailed SWOT analysis. In this, the companys core strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats are analyzed, providing an up to date objective view of the company.Download Sample copy of this Report at :Table of ContentsTable of Contents 2List of Tables 7Company Snapshot 9Key Information 9Company Overview 9SWOT Snapshot 9Operational Metrics 10Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Operational Metrics, By Capacity 10Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Operational Metrics, By Generation 10Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Operational Metrics, By Transmission 10Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Operational Metrics, By Segmental Information 11Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Operational Metrics, By Sales 12Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Wind Farms 13Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Wind Farms, Australia 13Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Solar PV Parks 16Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Solar PV Parks, Thailand 16Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Solar Thermal Plants 21Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Solar Thermal Plants, Thailand 21Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Hydro Power Plants 22Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Hydro Power Plants, Myanmar 22Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Thermal Power Plants 25Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Thermal Power Plants, Thailand 25Business Description 33Business Overview 33Major Products and Services 34History 35SWOT Analysis 39Overview 39Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand Strengths 39Working Capital Surplus 39Integrated Operations 39Focused R&D Activities 40Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand Weaknesses 40Operational Performance 40Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand Opportunities 40Alternative Energy Development Plan: Thailand 40Increase in Demand for Electricity: Thailand 40Positive Outlook for Thermal Power: Thailand 40Energy Policy and Planning: Lao PDR 41Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand Threats 41Natural Gas Concerns: Thailand 41Environmental Laws and Regulations 41Operational Issues 41Network Safety Issues 41Key Employees 42Company Statement 43MarketResearchReports.biz is the most comprehensive collection of market research reports. MarketResearchReports.Biz services are specially designed to save time and money for our clients. We are a one stop solution for all your research needs, our main offerings are syndicated research reports, custom research, subscription access and consulting services. We serve all sizes and types of companies spanning across various industries.State Tower90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074Website:E: sales@marketresearchreports.biz
Unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) market size is driven by APAC countries such as China, India, Indonesia & Thailand by forecast 7 years
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Unsaturated Polyester Resin (UPR) Market size may generate USD 12.8 billion revenue by 2022; according to a new research report by Global Market Insights, Inc.Positive indicators for increasing composites usage across transportation and infrastructure industry owing to light weight & durability in comparison to metallic counterparts should favor UPR market size. Unsaturated polyester resin, orthophthalic, is used in the manufacture of general purpose composites which require moderate structural properties.UPR composites also posses excellent aesthetic value and can be easily pigmented to suit the need of a particular industry, without compromising on the structural properties of the finished product. Moreover, several manufacturers are developing alternative methods to manufacture products from biomass which may stimulate bio UPR market size.Request for Sample of This Research Report@APAC is a large scale manufacturing hub for chemicals, automotive and electronics. In terms of revenue, APAC dominant by India and China UPR market size, may surpass USD 6 billion revenue by 2022. On-going construction activities along with automobile production growth in China, Thailand India should drive composites demand for structural modification over the next few years.Orthopthalic unsaturated polyester resin market size may attain over 7.2% growth in revenue terms. These resins are extensively used in the fiber reinforced plastics (FRP) industry. FRPs are being increasingly used in a wide range of applications such as pools, tanks, plates, vessels, car bodies and other general pieces.Building & construction industry should witness over 6% CAGR. Strong indicators for construction spending particularly in BRICS nations should drive UPR market size. Growing fiberglass market in China coupled with rising FRP demand in construction applications should drive product demand.Unsaturated polyester resin is used as body filler for rapid reconstruction and repair of damaged vehicles part. Growing lightweight materials demand in automotive industry in order to reduce emissions and increase fuel efficiency should drive product demand. In addition, it is used for doors, roofs, bumpers and interiors to repair damages caused during accidents.Inquire here Before Buying The Report@Major industries are implementing technological innovation to develop low cost system and are focusing on expanding their existing product portfolio. Raw materials used for manufacturing resins are isophthalic acid, phthalic anhydride, maleic anhydride and glycols. Tight raw material supply situation may affect end product cost and put constraint UPR market price trend.Key insights from the report include:Isophthalic polyester market size should achieve over 6% growth and exceed 2 million tons by 2022.Tanks & pipes industry in EU may generate over USD 470 million by 2022. Increasing FRP tanks & pipes demand may drive UPR market size growth. Rising concern over corrosion associated with tanks & pipes made of metals along with gaining importance of tank farm management in onshore and offshore oil & gas applications have increased the scope for FRP tanks and pipes.DCPD unsaturated polyester resin market share in Europe generated over 160 kilo tons in 2014. European Commission has framed regulations for restricting styrene monomer usage which should drive (dicyclopentadiene) DCPD demand.Electrical industry in Central & South America consumed over 30 kilo tons in 2015. Growing composites demand in printed circuit boards (PCBs) due to their superior properties such as unparalleled rigidity and durability should have a positive influence in UPR market size growth.Artificial stone based unsaturated polyester resin market size should show significant gains at over 6.2% CAGR. It is also known as polyester stones which are used as internal decorative material in walls, columns, wall painting and architectural reliefs.Marine application in North America generated over 65 kilo tons in 2014. Growing UPR demand in marine applications on account of exhibiting properties such as inherent strength, weather-resistant finish and hydrolytic stability should drive industry growth.Global UPR market share is fragmented. BASF, Dow, Ashland, CCP Composites and Changzhou are among notable industry players. Other prominent participants include DSM, DuPont, Reichhold and Lanxess.Browse key industry insights spread across 95 pages with 68 market data tables &15 figures & charts from the report, Unsaturated Polyester Resin (UPR) Market Size By End-Use (Building & Construction, Artificial Stones, Pipes & Tanks, Transport, Electrical, Marine), By Product (Isopthalic, Orthopthalic, DCPD), Regional Outlook, Application Potential, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2015 2022 in detail along with the table of contents:Global Market Insights has segmented the unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) market on the basis of product, end-use and region:Unsaturated Polyester Resin (UPR) Product Analysis (Volume: Kilo Tons; Revenue: USD Million, 2012 2022)OrthopthalicIsophthalicDCPDOthersUnsaturated Polyester Resin (UPR) End-Use Analysis (Volume: Kilo Tons; Revenue: USD Million, 2012 2022)Building & ConstructionTanks & PipesElectricalMarineTransportArtificial StonesOthersUnsaturated Polyester Resin (UPR) Regional Analysis (Volume: Kilo Tons; Revenue: USD Million, 2012 2022)North AmericaEuropeAsia PacificCSAMEARead our insightful industry blogs:Contact Us:Jack DavisCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone: 1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1 888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb: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.29L Atlantic Avenue, Suite L 105Ocean View, Delaware
Shim Stock Material Market Revenue Predicted To Go Up by 2026
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Shim is a thin, tapered or wedged piece of material, used to fill small spaces between objects. Shim Stock base material varies with their application. Shim can be made up of materials such as plastic, metal, wood, stone or even paper. Shims Stock materials are widely used to adjust for better fit, support, or provide a leveled surface and for such purpose it is required on ad-hoc basis. Shim Stock material also finds applications as spacers to fill gaps between parts subject to wear and tear. Shim Stock materials are used by various industries such as aeronautical, manufacturing, defense, etc. However, the aeronautical and defense industry mainly finds wide applications for Shim Stock materials.Request for Sample Copy@The global Shim Stock market is primarily driven by aeronautical industry due to its end use application. Increasing demand for commercial aircrafts is fueling the demand for shim stock materials. Shim stock materials also finds application in other industries such as defense and manufacturing. The continuous operations in production facilities requires effective maintenance activities in plants which in turn is fueling the demand of shim stock materials. Increasing global spending on defense equipments also driving the demand for Shim stock materials. However, factors like dependency on end use industries can be a restraint for the global shim stock material market. Therefore, demand variability in end use industries like aeronautical, manufacturing and defense have high impact on the global shim stock market. Other restraints like unorganized market for shim stock material and high profit share of suppliers resulting in price imbalance are few other factors confining the growth of global shim stock material market.Global Shim Stock Material market can be segmented on the basis end-use industry, material, application and type. On the basis of end-use industry, global Shim Stock Material market can be segmented into Aeronautical industry, Manufacturing, Defense and other industries widely using shim stock materials. On the basis of materials, global shim stock material market can be segmented as plastic, wood, metals, paper and others. Global Shim stock market can also be segmented on the basis of application including alignment, filling of void spaces, support, installation of new machinery etc. Shim stock material are available in market in various forms. Lastly, on the basis of end product type the global shim stock market can be segmented into coil, sheet, rod, bar and tube.High defense budget and increasing demand for commercial aircrafts in regions like North America followed by Asia pacific countries like china, Japan, Eastern Europe countries particularly Russia and western Europe countries like U.K are the top markets for shim stock materials. However, Global Shim Stock Market is also fueled by demand in manufacturing industry, manufacturing hub like Asia pacific regions like china followed by North America. Global Shim Stock Material market can be divided into seven major regions including North America (U.S., Canada), Asia Pacific (ASEAN, Australia, China, India, & New Zealand), Japan, Western Europe (Italy, France, U.K, Spain, Germany), Eastern Europe (Poland, Russia), Asia- Latin America (Mexico. Brazil) and Middle East and Africa (GCC, S. Africa, N. Africa).Global Shim Stock Material market is highly competitive due to the presence of number of manufacturers involved in the manufacturing and supply of shim stock materials. Most of the manufacturers provide a wide variety of shim stock materials. Various key players involved are Lyon Industries Inc., United States Brass & Copper Inc., Artus corp., Eagle Alloys Corp., Coronet Parts Mfg. Co. Inc., Accushim Inc., Aloma Shim and Manufacturing. Metallo Gasket Company, SPIROL International Corporation, Shanghai Metal Corporation. and others.Request for Table of Content@The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data, and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geographies, application, and Industry.About UsPersistence Market Research (PMR) is a third-platform research firm. Our research model is a unique collaboration of data analytics and market research methodology to help businesses achieve optimal performance.To support companies in overcoming complex business challenges, we follow a multi-disciplinary approach. At PMR, we unite various data streams from multi-dimensional sources. By deploying real-time data collection, big data, and customer experience analytics, we deliver business intelligence for organizations of all sizes.ContactPersistence Market Research305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA - Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.com
Clinical Alarm Management Market Revenue and Value Chain 2016-2026
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Clinical alarm systems are devices that alert caregivers of immediate adverse patient conditions and help in enhancing potential patient-safety. Alarms must be accurate, unique and provide alerts, which could be readily identified and understood by caregivers and the products must belong to standardized & approved product categories. These systems are either built-in or attached to other medical equipment & monitoring systems. Alarm fatigue is the psychological effect produced by too many alarms occurring in a clinical environment, causing clinicians to miss true clinically significant alarms. When alarms work well, the environment of patient care is enhanced. When alarms do not work well, they pull caregivers away from their line of respective duties and other patients, or even ignore alarm sounds altogether. Cases of ignored alarms have resulted in patient deaths earlier in extreme cases. Most often, the major usability problem is an alarm flood - too many alarms ringing together, in case of any device failure. Other defects hampering clinical alarm uptake in sophisticated healthcare systems include poorly designed alarms, improperly set alarm points, ineffective alarm announcements, and unclear alarm messages among others.Clinical Alarm Management Market: Drivers and RestraintsIncreasing awareness of care providers towards enhancing patient safety is a prominent factor pushing the revenue growth of the clinical alarm management market. Others revenue drivers include rising medtech investments by governments of all major countries and promoting access to basic healthcare across all sections of the society. Integrated alarm system designs are often not standardized across different medical equipment systems and devices. This could be considered as a restraint for clinical alarm management market. Improper alarm escalation leading to false negative cases - such as a patient needs immediate clinical attention but a clinician is not alerted - substantially compromises on patient-safety. Other factors negatively affecting market growth are lack of product standardization across regions and lack of proper skills to rationalize the alarm adjustment process.Request for sample report:Clinical Alarm Management Market: SegmentationClinical alarm management market is segmented based on product type, end user and geography.Based on product type, clinical alarm management market is segmented as follows:Physiological monitorsTelemetry monitorsVentilatorsInfusion PumpsAnesthesia MachinesCompression PumpsFeeding PumpsNurse Call SystemBed AlarmsBased on end user, the clinical alarm management market is segmented as follows:HospitalsClinicsAmbulatory surgical centersLong term and palliative care centersHome careOthersClinical Alarm Management Market: OverviewIn the present market scenario, clinical alarm manufacturers prioritize sensitivity over specificity. This often leads to a large number of false positive cases, which is often misleading. Particularly, when alarm frequency is high, caregivers could become desensitized, develop alarm fatigue, and create a false negative outcome, compromising patient safety. With rise in the number of urban healthcare centers across regions, there clinical alarm management market is witnessing a sustained growth in demand for standard and tested products. To avoid product level dysfunctionalities, the AAMI (Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation) Foundation had added clinical alarms to its portfolio of multidisciplinary initiatives to advance patient safety and created an Alarm Best Practices Workgroup in 2012. The committee reviews and recommends best practices on clinical alarm management at regular intervals. Developed pharmaceutical markets are expected to create sustainable traction in generating demand for standardized clinical alarm systems over the forecast period, while developing markets are expected to follow suit.Request for TOC:Clinical Alarm Management Market: Region-wise OutlookThe global clinical alarm management market is classified into seven regions namely, North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ), Japan, Middle East and Africa (MEA). North America is expected to dominate the clinical alarm management market in terms of both revenue and demand generation owing to greater awareness on medtech advancement followed by Western Europe. However, over the foreseeable long term, markets in Latin America and Asia-Pacific could prove lucrative in terms of market opportunities owing to persistence of factors such as greater penetration of access to organized healthcare and rising disposable income level contribution to private healthcare spending.Clinical Alarm Management Market: Key PlayersSome of the major companies contributing to global clinical alarm management market include Medtronic, Extension Healthcare, GE Healthcare, Koninklijke Philips N.V., Baxter, Mindray Medical International Limited among others.About us:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.Contact us:616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705T (UK): + 44 (0) 20 7692 8790Email:sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Tinea Pedis Treatment Market Segments and Key Trends 2016-2026
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Tinea Pedis also called as Athlets Foot is a superficial fungal infection of feet caused by group of fungi known as dermatophytes. Fungi are eukaryotic organism that live as saprophyte or parasite existing in two different forms as yeast and molds. Moist, occlusive environment is the ideal environment for the growth of such organism affecting keratin of the top layer of the epidermis. Conditions such as diabetes and HIV interfere with bodys immune system and increase the risk of getting infected with tinea pedis. The disease in more prevalent in tropic and subtropical countries of the world. FDA reports Trichophyton rubrum as the main causative agent of Tinea pedis followed by Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Epidermophyton floccosum. However in some of the cases the diseases is also caused by Microsporum canis, Trichophyton tonsurans and by other dermatophyte species. Tinea pedis is estimated to affect 40% of the total population who visit hospital for a medical reason. The diseases is accompanied by dermatophyte infection of other parts of the body including groin, hands or nails. Clinical diagnosis of tinea pedis includes visible fissuring, maceration, and scaling in the interdigital or subdigital area of the feet. This may also involve examination of sole area of the foot characterized by diffused scaling or presence of vesicopustules on the plantar area around the instep of the foot. Tinea pedis is contagious and spreads through direct contact. Topical therapy is effective for the treatment of tinea pedis. Generally, the diseases can be treated using topical antifungals. However, patients with moccasin, vesicular tinea pedis, or persistent tinea pedis may require oral antifungal treatment.Tinea pedis treatment market is expected to grow at a healthy pace attributed to growing number of patients with concomitant diabetes, atopy, and immunosuppression. With rapidly ageing population coupled with increasing numbers of immunocompromised patients, tinea is emerging as an important and a significantly prevalent infection over the coming years.Tinea Pedis Treatment Market: Drivers and RestraintsSkin conditions represents one of the most common health related problem affecting millions of people worldwide. The diseases is found to be more prevalent in warm and moist environments predominantly affecting the feet and toes. Shoes, showers, and pool areas are frequent culprits that foster and spread tinea pedis infections. Additionally, growing incidence of diabetes across the world is also fueling the market expected to fuel the growth of tinea pedis treatment market over the forecast period. It has been reported that 50% of the diabetic patients are at risk of developing tinea pedis at some point in their lifetime than non-diabetic patients. Tinea pedis treatment market is dominated by generics hence, big market players in the absence of any patent protection, face stiff competition from generics, leading to declining sales. Majority of products for topical treatment of tinea pedis have moderate efficacy with extended treatment time. Therefore, manufacturers of the drugs are focusing upon development of drugs that would take minimum amount of time in the treatment of tinea pedis.Request for sample report:Tinea Pedis Treatment Market: SegmentationThe global tinea pedis treatment market has been classified on the basis of type, traetment, end user and geography.Based on type, the global tinea pedis treatment market is divided into following:Interdigital Tinea PedisPlantar Tinea PedisVesicular Tinea PedisBased on the treatment, the global tinea pedis treatment market is divided into following:Topical DrugsGelCreamsSprayLotionsPowderOral DrugsBased on the distribution channel, the global tinea pedis treatment market is divided into following:Hospital PharmaciesRetail PharmaciesE-commerceTinea Pedis Treatment Market: OverviewTinea pedis is a growing concern in many underdeveloped and developed countries. Lack of awareness and less patient involvement in the diseases treatment is expected to hamper the market growth over the forecast period. The condition is widespread with a high rate of recurrence leading to serious complications if not treated on time. Aging population and increasing prevalence of diabetic patients has resulted in large patient pool suffering from this diseases. However, the market for tinea pedis also represents highly commercial opportunity for novel drugs under development that could lead to greater sales thereby creating a huge opportunity for drug manufacturers. Also, presence of large number of generics in the market is expected to offer huge market growth opportunity for tinea pedis treatment market in the near future.Request for TOC:Tinea Pedis Treatment Market: Regional OverviewRegion wise, the global tinea pedis treatment market is classified into regions namely, North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific, Japan, Middle East and Africa.North America leads the global tinea pedis treatment market followed by Europe. Growing prevalence of diabetes in the region and growing number coupled with growing investment in R & D and increased FDA approvals are expected towards the revenue traction in North America. Worldwide market for tinea pedis treatment is still evolving due to dominance of generics and major drug development firms and various companies need to work in close coordination with each other in order to develop effective treatment therapies for tinea pedis diseases management.Smart Contact Lens: Key PlayersSome of the key players in global wide filed imaging systems market are Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc., Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co. Inc., Merck & Co. Inc., Novartis AG., Sanofi F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Beckman Coulter Inc., Kaken Pharmaceutical Co., Nitric BioTherapeutics, and Topica Pharmaceuticals.Browse full report:About us:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.Contact us:616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705T (UK): + 44 (0) 20 7692 8790Email:sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Boy Dies in Abandoned Well in China After 100-hour Rescue
Efforts to save the boy began on Sunday after his father posted his disappearance on Chinese social media. (Photo : Getty Images)
A Chinese boy was found dead after being trapped for over 100 hours in an abandoned well in north China's Hebei Province on Thursday despite intensive rescue efforts.
Wu Sujie, a local government official involved in the rescue attempt, told the state-run Xinhua News Agency that the boy was found with no vital signs.
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The six-year-old boy, surnamed Zhao, fell down a 80-meter-deep dry well in Lixian County, Baoding City, on Sunday last week while harvesting vegetables, rescue workers said. His father posted for help on the social networking app WeChat, leading to a rescue operation that involved more than 500 personnel and an estimated 100 excavators.
Measuring 30 centimeters in diameter, the well was too narrow for any adult to climb into and forced rescuers to dig out a 120-meter-diameter, funnel-shaped hole in the well in order to reach the boy, according to Xinhua.
Life-detecting devices, infrared cameras, and mechanical rescue arms were used in the search, Wu said.
Rescue efforts have also been hampered by the soft sandy soil, which is prone to collapse, prompting workers to support the shaft during the excavation.
The accident generated widespread attention both in the mainland and abroad, which many netizens offering to help in the rescue by donating food and money. Locals also rushed to the scene to prepare food for the rescue team.
Ma Xiaochun, an engineering professor at China University of Geoscience, told Beijing News that when such accidents happen, rescue workers typically contact the victim first while providing oxygen, lights, and food.
"In this case, it was difficult to do so because they were unable to detect the boy, not to mention his physical condition," Ma said.
The incident also sparked discussion online about China's dry wells, which are increasingly being abandoned due to diminishing water levels and increased demand caused by rapid urbanization.
The local government will be conducting an investigation into all dry wells in Lixian, Wu said.
Responsible Care Prize 2016 awarded to the RUDOLF GROUP
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Dusseldorf The "Responsible-Care" Prize for particularly responsible management in the pharmaceutical/chemical industry was awarded for the 25th time in Dusseldorf on 23rd September 2016. This initiative has taken up the cause of improving the safeguarding of people and the environment independent of existing regulations. Amongst all nominated companies the German Chemical Industry Association (VCI = Verband der Chemischen Industrie) declared 6 companies the winners in their anniversary event. They were chosen on federal level and stood out from their competitors in the respective fields. On the occasion of this year's anniversary, a seventh winner may place an additionally offered award for small and medium-sized businesses on their shelves.This year, the sought-after prize in the important category "environmental protection" was awarded to Rudolf GmbH, which is based in Geretsried, Bavaria. The managing director, Dr. Wolfgang Schumann, and Dr. Gunther Duschek, Vice President R & D, received the prize on behalf of the whole team. "Highly efficient and environmentally friendly water-repellent agents" - this is the name of the award-winning project. Since 2003 the water repellents behind this project have been in fierce competition with common environmentally hazardous water repellents. Apart from other aspects, the jury appreciated above all the pioneering role that RUDOLF has adopted in the chemical industry. No other manufacturer has developed products at such an early stage which for the outdoor industry are a real environmentally friendly alternative to fluorinated polymers. The majority of water-repellent agents used so far still contain perfluorooctanoic acid, which, due to its high stability, is very risky for the environment. RUDOLF has launched a high-performance, ecologically sustainable water-repellent finish without these problematic ingredients. "We have taken nature as a model, which is why the water-repellent finish we have developed is called BIONIC FINISH, says Dr. Duschek, and proudly adds: "In the outdoor sector today's effects are easily as strong as with fluorocarbon compounds."RUDOLF GmbH, which, today, is based in Geretsried, Bavaria, was founded by Reinhold Rudolf in Northern Bohemia in 1922. It is specialised in innovative and high-quality chemical products, predominantly textile auxiliaries, products for textile care as well as construction chemicals.One thousand employees in 45 countries around the world guarantee logistical as well as technical service.The combination of backwards integration, development know-how, exact knowledge of market requirements and thorough technical application expertise make RUDOLF GmbH an experienced and competent partner for the customers of the textile finishing industry, co-producers and many other industries. Quality Management and certification according to DIN ISO 9001:14001 go without saying. RUDOLF offers products that comply with the Oeko-Tex-Standard and GOTS, is committed to ZDHC with its own MRS-list and is a bluesign system partner. In addition, as a member of the chemical industry, it lives the philosophy of the voluntary Responsible Care initiative, which stands for responsible action in the fields of environment, safety and health.RUDOLF GmbHAltvaterstrae 58 - 64, 82538 Geretsried, GERMANYTel. 08171 53-0Fax 08171 53-191info@rudolf.de
Data Loss Prevention Market - Global Industry Analysis, Growth, Trends, Forecast 2024
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Data loss prevention (DLP) is a software designed to prevent and detect data breaches by monitoring and blocking critical data at rest, in motion or in use. DLP prevents unintended and accidental loss or transfer of organizations critical data. It also protects data from decisive data theft and cyber-attacks ensuring data security.The DLP market provides network and cloud based solutions for e-mail, mobile devices, USB drivers and laptops among others For instance, Skyhigh Networks provides DLP cloud based solutions to protect employees uploaded data such as personal health information (PHI), customer information and personally identifiable information (PII). It supports management of internal policies, prevents disclosure of sensitive data and achieves compliance and regulation policies such as Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH).Browse The Market Research Report of Data Loss Prevention Market :The rising number of breaches in various industry verticals such as oil and gas industries, retail industries and business financial services and insurance (BFSI) has expanded the adoption of DLP. For instance in march 2015, data breaches in Primera Blue Cross, a health insurer company based in Washington and Anthem, a health insurer company was hacked and suffered data breach in February 2015The data loss prevention market has been experiencing sustainable growth in recent years due to increasing security breaches, high demand for protection of intellectual property against theft and rising adoption of cloud computing such shift in storage of data from on-premises to public and private cloud platform. The other additional factor contributing to the growth of data loss prevention market is emerging commercialization. For instance, rising adoption of social media leading to advanced information sharing. However, lack of awareness is hindering the DLP market growth. The acceptance of cloud based business models and persistent cyber-attacks is expected to provide opportunities for growth of data loss prevention market during the forecast period.The data loss prevention market is segmented on the basis of deployment type, end-user adoption, solution tools, application, service and geography. On the basis of deployment type, the data loss prevention market is segmented into on-premise DLP and cloud DLP. In terms of end-user adoption, the data loss prevention market is segmented into encryption, web and e-mail protection, policy, standards and procedures, cloud storage, centralized management and incident response and workflow management. In terms of solution tools, the data loss prevention market is segmented as storage or data center DLP, network DLP and endpoint DLP. Based on the application, the data loss prevention market is segmented into manufacturing, telecommunication and IT, healthcare, aerospace and defense, retail and logistics, government and public utilities and banking, financial services and insurance. Further on the basis of services provided, the data loss prevention market is segmented into managed security services, risk & threat assessment services, consulting services, education & training and system integration & installation services. Moreover, on the basis of geography the data loss prevention market is segmented into North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Asia Pacific and Latin America. North America is expected to lead the market due to increased adoption of cloud and big data technologies. Moreover, Asia Pacific and Middle East and Africa are expected to sustainable growth in data loss prevention market during the forecast period due to high demand for data loss prevention software and increasing security attacks.Get Free Sample Report Copy :Some of the Key Players in data loss prevention market are GTB Technologies, Inc., Code Green Networks, Symantec Corporation, Check Point Software Technologies Ltd., Trustwave Holdings, Inc., CA Technologies, Trend Micro Incorporated, Blue Coat systems, Inc., Cisco Systems and Websense, Inc.About Us :Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.TMRs data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With extensive research and analysis capabilities, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques to develop distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.Contact Us :-Transparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030Email:sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Pay TV Market in the US 2015-2019, Industry Overview, Product Life Cycle and Vendor Segmentation Report
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Pay TV Market in the US 2015-2019 Size and Share Published in 2015-09-16 Available for US$ 2500 at Researchmoz.usDescriptionTo Access the Full Report, Please Visit :Pay TV refers to subscription-based television services. Pay TV operators provide data, videos, and voice services. Moreover, they provide games, movies, and contents matching the requirements of various demographics. Earlier, subscription-based services were provided using both analog and digital cables. However, in the mid-2000s, digital cable TV gained traction, which led to a reduction in the market share of analog services.Technavio's analysts forecast the pay TV market in the US to grow at a CAGR of 1.87% over the period 2014-2019.Covered in this reportThis report covers the present scenario and growth prospects of the pay TV market in the US for 2015-2019. To calculate the market size, the report considers revenue generated from the subscriptions of the following services:Cable TVSatellite TVIPTVThe market is highly fragmented with the presence of a large number of small and large vendors. The report only lists the key vendors in the market; it does not present the market share of all the vendors. In addition, the report discusses the major drivers influencing the growth of the pay TV market in the US, outlines the challenges faced by vendors and the market at large, and the key trends emerging in the market.Technavio's report, Pay TV Market in the US 2015-2019, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the landscape of the pay TV market in the US and its growth prospects in the coming years. The report includes a discussion on the key vendors operating in this market.Key vendorsAT&TComcastCox CommunicationsDISH NetworkSkyVerizon CommunicationsGet a Sample Copy of the Report:Other prominent vendorsAmrica MvilBell CanadaCablevisionCharter CommunicationsKPNLiberty GlobalSK TelecomSureWest CommunicationsTelefnicaMarket driverGrowth of satellite TV and IPTV segmentsFor a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket challengeIntense competitionFor a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket trendEvolution of pick-and-pay servicesFor a full, detailed list, view our reportKey questions answered in this reportWhat will the market size be in 2019 and what will the growth rate be?What are the key market trends?What is driving this market?What are the challenges to market growth?Who are the key vendors in this market space?What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key vendors?What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors?Inquiry on this report:Table of ContentPART 01: Executive summaryHighlightsPART 02: Scope of the reportMarket overviewEnd-user segmentsBase yearVendor segmentationMarket size calculation and segmentationTop-vendor offeringsPART 03: Market research methodologyResearch methodologyEconomic indicatorsPART 04: IntroductionKey market highlightsIntroduction to TV subscriptionPART 05: Market landscapeMarket overviewProduct life cycleMarket size and forecastUnit shipment forecastARPU (average revenue per user)Five forces analysisResearchMoz is the worlds fastest growing collection of market research reports worldwide. Our database is composed of current market studies from over 100 featured publishers worldwide. Our market research databases integrate statistics with analysis from global, regional, country and company perspectives.Mr. NachiketState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesWebsite @Tel: 866-997-4948 (Us-Canada Toll Free)Tel: +1-518-621-2074Follow us on LinkedIn @ bit.ly/1TBmnVG
JOHN DEERE GEARATION BOARD SELECTED AS THE TOP EDUCATIONAL TOY OF 2016 IN THE 9TH ANNUAL GODDARD SCHOOL PRESCHOOLER-APPROVED TOY TEST
www.goddardschool.com/toytest
www.goddardschool.com
KING OF PRUSSIA, PA November 14, 2016 Goddard Systems, Inc. (GSI), the national franchisor of The Goddard School preschool system, is excited to announce that the public has selected the John Deere Gearation Board as the top toy in its 9th annual Goddard School Preschooler-Approval Toy Test. In an effort to encourage learning through play outside of the classroom, GSI will purchase and donate 100 units of the John Deere Gearation Board to Toys for Tots, a program run by the United States Marine Corps Reserve that distributes holiday gifts to less fortunate children in the community.Established in 2008, The Goddard Schools annual Toy Test determines the best educational toys of the year with the help of the most discerning toy critics preschoolers! Each year, The Goddard School Toy Test Committee evaluates dozens of submissions from popular toy manufacturing companies across the globe. The educational toys that support child-initiated play and collaboration, among other criteria, proceed to the next round where preschoolers from 50 Goddard School locations across the nation are given the opportunity to play with the toys. Preschoolers and teachers worked together to choose the favorite 10 toys, which were then put to a public vote to determine the winner.The Goddard School Preschooler-Approved Top 10 Toys finalists included the following (in suggested age range order):* Click Clack Ball by The Manhattan Toy Company (Suggested Age Range: 0+ years)* Sort and Discover Activity Cube by VTech (Suggested Age Range: 9-36 months)* Mirari Pop! Pop! Piano by Play Monster (Suggested Age Range: 12+ months)* Musical Gator by Alex Brands (Suggested Age Range: 18+ months)* Newborn Nursery Newborn Baby by Madame Alexander (Suggested Age Range: 2+ years)* Lauri Tall Stackers by Play Monster (Suggested Age Range: 2+ years)* Gearation Board by John Deere (Suggested Age Range: 3+ years)* Puppy Up by Play Monster (Suggested Age Range: 3+ years)* Yeti in My Spaghetti by Play Monster (Suggested Age Range: 4+ years)* Hexenkuche (Witches Kitchen) by Beleduc USA, Inc. (Suggested Age Range: 4+ years)Play-based learning is a critical part of the growth of preschoolers as they develop into confident learners, says GSIs Vice President of Education, Dr. Craig Bach. Through The Goddard School preschools Toy Test program, children provide wonderful feedback on a range of educational toys like John Deere Gearation Board while experiencing genuine play-based learning.For more information on The Goddard School and the Preschooler-Approved Toy Test, please visitAbout The Goddard SchoolLearning for fun. Learning for life. For nearly 30 years, The Goddard School has used the most current, academically endorsed methods to ensure that children from six weeks to six years old have fun while learning the skills they need for long-term success in school and in life. Talented teachers collaborate with parents to nurture children into respectful, confident and joyful learners. The Goddard Schools AdvancED- and Middle States-accredited F.L.EX. Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) reaches more than 50,000 students in more than 450 Goddard Schools in 36 states. The Goddard Schools comprehensive play-based curriculum, developed with early childhood education experts, provides the best childhood preparation for social and academic success. To learn more about The Goddard School, please visitKonnect Agency888 S. Figueroa StreetLos Angeles, CA 90017Amanda Molinaamolina@konnectagency.com
Marriott International relies on 3D and VR made by easyRAUM
easyRAUM 3D Event Solution Virtual Reality Panorama
Marriott confirmed easyRAUM as preferred partner for 3D solutions in the MICE sector. The Duesseldorf-based software company is thus legal partner of Marriott in Europe. The innovative company offers comprehensive 3D solutions. easyRAUM scores with its sustainable product mix: the user-friendly 3D CAD software easyRAUMpro, high-class 3D visualization services and the possibility to integrate the venue into the own website in an attractive and interactive way. By bundling 3D services and the 3D CAD software easyRAUM creates an outstanding added value for users. At present, the first European hotels have already started to work with easyRAUM, among them are the Zurich Marriott Hotel, the Berlin Marriott Hotel, the Amsterdam Marriott Hotel and the London Heathrow Marriott Hotel. The special focus of the cooperation between easyRAUM and Marriott lies on the mutual interest to intensively promote the issue of Virtual Reality. The largest hotel group Marriott sets new benchmarks in the hotel industry by working together with easyRAUM, a software provider that can already generate VR panoramas with its event planning software easyRAUMpro. We are very happy about this evidence of confidence and are pleased that our joint journey has taken this direction after 8 years. Being nominated as preferred partner by Marriott can be compared to a knightly accolade, that we are very proud of! We look forward to facing these new challenges, explains Sabine Reise, CEO of easyRAUM GmbH.Providing a premium software solution for an easy creation and editing of 2D floor plans and 3D visualization, easyRAUM is a one-stop-solution when it comes to the use of 3D in event planning. Developed especially for venues, convention centres and hotels the company reinvents the presentation of the rooms and animates high-end rendered 3D-models for website-integration. Equipped with photos and venue details a transparent source of information becomes available for MICE customers on the Internet. easyRAUM thus ensuring sustainability of its product portfolio. Everything fits together: visualization of the location in 3D, including customized 3D furniture and plan layout. the easyRAUMpro software for flexible processing and the attractive possibility to integrate the whole 3d model in the website.In recent years, the Dusseldorf software company has developed into a well-known premium brand in the event area. With over 1000 customers from all parts of the industry, are now relying large hotels, convention centers, leading agencies, event service and outfitter on the 3D premium software and services by easyRAUM GmbH.easyRAUM GmbHLuegallee 440545 DuesseldorfTel: 0049 21178171750Mail: info@easyraum.de
Rising Complex Data-Driven Scenario Creates Growth Opportunities for North American Managed Security Service Providers
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Do-it-yourself approach to cyber security proves inadequate for highly dynamic business assets, finds Frost & Sullivans Network Security TeamSANTA CLARA, CA November 14, 2016 The complexity of network security is increasing due to the growing sophistication of distributed denial of service (DDoS) and the subsequent proliferation of security point solutions. The abundance of security solutions, along with stricter compliance requirements and policies, has stoked the demand for expert security professionals, who are in short supply. In response to this human resource crunch and the need to ensure compliance with data privacy regulations, business and public entities of all sizes are turning to managed security service providers (MSSPs).Enterprises are re-evaluating and strengthening their relationships with MSSPs as they recognize the need for advanced analysis engines to process potential incident data from several sources, said Frost & Sullivan Digital Transformation Vice President of Research Michael Suby. Additionally, the complicated and potentially conflicting laws and regulations, privacy concerns and possible e-discovery requests are compelling organizations to outsource at least parts of their security functions to MSSPs.2016 North American Managed Security Services is part of the Cyber Security teams Growth Partnership Subscription that includes insights on related topics such as: addressing the threats IoT present; controlling user and machine access to critical internal systems, Web sites, and cloud services; devising approaches to combat constantly evolving malware families, and reducing the time window between compromise and remediation.Click here for complimentary access to more information on this analysis and to register for a Growth Strategy Dialogue, a free interactive briefing with Frost & Sullivans thought leaders.The risk management value of MSSPs is very difficult for enterprises opting for a do-it-yourself approach to duplicate. Only the largest of enterprises can gather the range and volume of threat intelligence as MSSPs, effectively process multiple streaming data feeds, and have the security expertise to determine and act on an optimal risk mitigation approach. By building scalable operations, serving customers across multiple verticals, being fluent in security technologies, and staffing with security expertise, MSSPs are well positioned to support organizations of all sizes.The two types of MSSPs that are best poised to succeed in this market are network service providers that offer DDoS identification and mitigation services, and MSSPs with a broad library of threat intelligence and an ability to translate that to actionable intelligence.Customers want solutions that solve problems, rather than mere alerts to a potential problem, noted Suby. Therefore, MSSPs that offer consulting, professional and technical services could well outpace the overall market.About Frost & SullivanFrost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, works in collaboration with clients to leverage visionary innovation that addresses the global challenges and related growth opportunities that will make or break today's market participants. For more than 50 years, we have been developing growth strategies for the global 1000, emerging businesses, the public sector and the investment community. Contact us: Start the discussion2016 North American Managed Security ServicesK12F-74Contact:Mariana FernandezCorporate Communications North AmericaP: +54.(11) 4778.3540E: mariana.fernandez@frost.comAbout Frost & SullivanFrost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, works in collaboration with clients to leverage visionary innovation that addresses the global challenges and related growth opportunities that will make or break today's market participants. For more than 50 years, we have been developing growth strategies for the global 1000, emerging businesses, the public sector and the investment community. Contact us: Start the discussion3211 Scott BlvdSanta Clara, CA 95054United States of America
Home61 Creates Website for Il Villaggio in Miami Beach, Florida
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Home61 Creates Website for Il Villaggio in Miami Beach, FloridaReal-estate made simple by Home61Miami, Florida (October 2016) Home61, the leader in modern real estate, has launched a new website with complete listings for Il Villaggio Condominiums in world-famous Miami Beach at ilvillaggiocondosforsale.com. The site was designed to make finding condos to rent or own at Il Villaggio hassle-free and easy-to-use. This website allows property-seekers to browse up-to-date listings for 1, 2, 3, and 4 bedroom condos for sale or rent at Miami Beachs Il Villaggio.Located at 1455 Ocean Drive on iconic Miami Beach, Il Villaggio embodies the energy and vibrancy of beautiful Miami, Florida. Ocean Drive, described as the American Riviera, is home to Miamis most exquisite and expertly curated shops and boutiques, and the citys trendiest eateries. Il Villaggio condominiums feature an expertly designed 4-story glass and marble lobby and floor-to-ceiling terraces to capture the beauty and beat of the surrounding city. Il Villaggio condos to rent or own feature private beach lounges and cabanas, and a fabulous ocean eatery. Each condo is equipped with modern appliances and Kohler bathroom fixtures. Il Villaggio condos available to rent or own offer the best in Miami-living with amenities to match.Home61 is a tech company dedicated to streamlining the Miami real-estate experience. Olivier Grinda, founder and CEO of Home61, prides the companys reputation We are certain those looking to buy or rent in Miami will find their search for a home made easy with Home61.The Il Villaggio website offers current listings of available properties and price changes, as well as information on floor plans, amenities, and the surrounding area. Customers looking to rent or buy at Il Villaggio Condominiums will have access to the most accurate, up-to-date information possible from ilvillaggiocondosforsale.com.See ilvillaggiocondosforsale.com orfor more details.Home61 is an online real estate company that helps you find a great place to live in Miami Greater Area.Were making residential (house, apartment, condos) rentals and sales easier by enabling you to:Search tens of thousands of real time Residential for rent and sale with just a click.Our advance filtering options lets you find the perfect house for you.Get a dedicated Personal Assistant to help and assist you from the get-go.Get a dedicated Home61 Agent as soon as you decide to visit a home.Keep track of your Home search in one, single place with My Homes.Set up you availability for Home visits in My Calendar or tell your Personal Assistant so that she can manage that for you.3401 North Miami Ave, Suite 210, Miami FL, 33127
The next-gen torrent client Bitport.io pushes torrenting to the cloud.
https://bitport.io/press
http://www.bitport.io
Bitport.io combines cutting-edge torrent technology, secure private cloud storage, and video streaming into one online service. Bitport is your all-in-one torrent machine.Torrent files are downloaded by Bitport.io servers, not by PC users. A Bitport user only needs to paste a torrent file, and Bitport does the rest of the work. This creates a safe torrent platform with the capability to continue downloading even after the user's device is switched off.Torrent files downloaded by Bitport to the user's personal cloud can be securely downloaded via a fast encrypted connection. Bitport offers video file streaming in a web browser on desktop PCs, Macs, smartphones, and tablets or on a TV with Apple TV or Chromecast. Thanks to this technology, Bitport provides the easiest way to torrent on an iPhone or iPad.The trend is clear; everything moves to the cloud and adapts for smartphones. The main goal of Bitport is to use cloud technology to make torrenting easier and safer, said Filip Svoboda, CMO of Bitport.io. We have big plans for Bitport, and new features are already on their way.Bitport.io takes the security of its users very seriously. All connections are encrypted by SSL, making transfers unreadable to anyone else. Downloaded files are also checked by a built-in antivirus protection, and payments can be made anonymously with Bitcoin.Besides Bitcoin, users can pay for Bitport.io services by PayPal, credit card, or any one of 50 other payment methods. The trial plan of Bitport is free, and premium plans start at $5/month for an annual subscription. Premium plans offer more cloud storage, worldwide download server access, HD streaming, and the ability to load subtitles and other handy features.For screenshots, logos, and more information, visitAbout Bitport.ioBitport.io is the Czech cloud torrenting service startup behind cutting-edge torrenting technology.Contact:Filip Svoboda, CMOmedia@bitport.io+420 721 692 888Bitport is the next generation torrent client providing fast and secure torrenting. Torrent files are downloaded to every users personal cloud from where files can be downloaded or streamed. All communication between Bitport and users is encrypted by SSL encryption.Bitport runs in a web browser on any desktop and mobile device, including PC, macOS, iOS and Android.COOL SHEEP TECHNOLOGIES s.r.o.K Cervenemu vrchu 845/2bVokovice160 00, Praha 6Czech Republic
The rebel author, Joss Sheldon, is set to release his third novel...
The Little Voice by Joss Sheldon
www.joss-sheldon.com
The rebel author, Joss Sheldon, is set to release his third novel on the 23rd of November.'The Little Voice' is a work of psychological realism; a 'Crime & Punishment' for the twenty-first century. It recounts the travails of its main protagonist, Yew Shodkin, whose life has been torn apart by two conflicting forces; the pressure to be true to himself, and the pressure to be the person his society demands.The Huffington Post has called Sheldon's new work, "The most thought-provoking novel of 2016.""The book is both rational and emotional. It inspires hope and fear, optimism and depression. Then it analyses those emotions. It explains the pressures we all experience from time to time."The Little Voice looks well-positioned to boost Sheldon's reputation even further, after the British novelist shot to the attention of the literary world with his second novel, 'Occupied'. AXS said that book was "Darker than George Orwell's 1984", whilst Buzzfeed called it "A must read".To request a review copy of 'The Little Voice', or to arrange an interview with Joss Sheldon himself, please email press@joss-sheldon.comABOUT JOSS SHELDONJoss Sheldon is a scruffy nomad, unshaven layabout, and good for nothing hobo. Born in 1982, he was brought up in one of the anonymous suburbs which wrap themselves around London's beating heart. And then he escaped!With a degree from the London School of Economics to his name, Sheldon had spells selling falafel at music festivals, being a ski-bum, and failing to turn the English Midlands into a haven of rugby league.Then, in 2013, he went to McLeod Ganj in India; a village which plays home to thousands of angry monkeys, hundreds of Tibetan refugees, and the Dalai Lama himself. It was there that Sheldon wrote his first novel, 'Involution & Evolution'.With several positive reviews to his name, Sheldon had caught the writing bug. So he travelled around Palestine and Kurdistan before writing his second novel, 'Occupied'; a dystopian 'masterpiece' unlike any other story you've ever read!Now Joss has returned with his third, and most radical novel yet. 'The Little Voice' takes a swipe at the external forces which come to shape our personalities. It's psychological. And it will make you think about the world in a whole new way. As the Huffington Post put it, The Little Voice is probably "The most thought-provoking novel of 2016"...PRESS CONTACTEmail:press@joss-sheldon.comWebsite:Office:Calle San Jose Alta 4, Bajo BGranadaSpain 18010
Booming Populism - On the Practice and Language of Political Polarization
www.germaninnovation.org
Donald J. Trump was elected the 45th president of the United States on November 8, 2016. In the course of the Brexit referendum and the U.S. presidential election, both the EU and the U.S. have witnessed a rise of political populism. Only nine days after the stunning election results, distinguished experts will discuss the booming political populist movement on both sides of the Atlantic at the German Center for Research and Innovation New York on November 17, 2016.By claiming to speak in the name of ordinary people, politicians emphasize the direct democratic nature of their actions while at the same time often explicitly excluding certain groups of people from their societal models. By bringing together social scientists, journalists and communication experts, the panel discussion will enable a multilayered analysis of the current political implications of populism in its various forms and the role of different media in the distribution of information and shaping of public opinion.On November 17, 2016, at the German Center for Research and Innovation New York, five policy experts will discuss the elections and booming populism. Michael Werz is a Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress where he is member of the National Security Team. Tara McGuinness is a Senior Advisor to the Director of the White Houses Office of Management and Budget and Executive Director of the Community Solutions Team. Jan-Werner Muller is Professor of Politics at Princeton University and a fellow at the Institute of Human Sciences, Vienna. Todd Gitlin teaches journalism and sociology and is the chair of the PhD program in Communications at Columbia University. Martin Nonhoff teaches political theory at the University of Bremen and is one of the field chairs at the Bremen International Graduate School of Social Sciences (BIGSSS). At the moment, he is a visiting scholar at Cornell University.For more information, visitThe German Center for Research and Innovation provides information and support for the realization of cooperative and collaborative projects between North America and Germany. With the goal of enhancing communication on the critical challenges of the 21st century, GCRI hosts a wide range of events from lectures and exhibitions to workshops and science dinners. Opened in February 2010, GCRI was created as a cornerstone of the German governments initiative to internationalize science and research and is one of six centers worldwide.Edwin LinderkampCommunications OfficerGerman Center for Research and Innovation (GCRI)871 United Nations PlazaNew York, NY 10017USA
$6B Gas Field in the Persian Gulf to Be Developed by China, Iran, France
A helicopter lands in an oil rig operated by a Qatar company in the Persian Gulf. (Photo : Getty Images)
An offshore gas field in the Persian Gulf, containing vast gas reserves, is set to be developed after Iran's Petropars and France's Total SA have agreed to a preliminary deal worth $6 billion, with the participation of China National Petroleum Corp. (CNPC).
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An article published by npr.org said it was the first investment made by a Western energy company since the easing of international sanctions on Iran early this year.
According to the article, the consortium will develop the area known as South Pars field, which was believed to contain about 14,000 billion cubic meters of gas, or an amount equivalent to about 8 percent of the known global reserves.
A report by The Wall Street Journal, however, said that the deal is in its draft stage yet and the final agreement will be released in six months.
"The agreement with the French oil giant could be a harbinger for the return of more Western companies to Iran's vast energy industry and represents a step forward for the Islamic Republic's goals of ramping up production of oil and gas over the next several years," the report said.
The report added that Total SA is familiar with Iran's enormous gas and oil reserves and since 2004, the French energy company has already been targeting the South Pars field, an area of the Persian Gulf that Iran shares with Qatar.
Total and China's CNPC have already signed deals with Iran to begin the development in the area but they were forced to withdraw in 2009 due to international sanctions.
Under the deal, Total will have 50.1 percent control in the consortium, while CNPC will get 30 percent and Iran's Petropars will have 19.9 percent.
Iran needs foreign expertise to develop and export its gas reserves, which is believed to be one of the largest in the world. American companies are still forbidden to invest in the country under U.S. law.
The advent of digital pathology is expected to revolutionize the healthcare industry in China and help overcome challenges in medical education, clinical practices and research. Favorable government healthcare reforms, such as initiatives on nationwide telepathology consultation and quality control programs, as well as the growing need for integration of healthcare delivery will usher in a wave of digital pathology adoption in the country. New analysis from Frost & Sullivan, Analysis of
American Apparel
American Apparel announced Monday, Nov. 14, 2016, that it has filed for Chapter 11 protection for the second time in 13 months. The company has 117 U.S. stores, including three in Oregon.
(The Associated Press/2014)
WASHINGTON -- American Apparel is seeking bankruptcy protection for the second time in just over a year, unable to find its footing in a shifting retail landscape and after a contentious fight for control with company founder Dov Charney.
Canada's Gildan Activewear is buying the American Apparel brand, notorious for sexually provocative ad campaigns, for $66 million.
American Apparel, which listed assets and liabilities in the range of $100 million to $500 million, said its cash would run out by year's end, according to Chain Store Age, a newsmagazine that covers the retail industry. It hopes to stay in business by securing a deal to keep its stores open, but some industry experts say such a scenario is unlikely.
"In our view despite its many challenges, there is still some value in the American Apparel brand," said Neil Saunders, CEO of retail research and consulting firm Conlumino, told Chain Store Age. "However, that value is simply not sufficient to support the existing store network and its associated costs, hence Gildan's decision not to buy out any of the store based leases or assets. ... The deal with Gildan, which is subject to approval by the bankruptcy court, will inevitably result in the closure of American Apparel's 117 U.S. stores."
The company has three Oregon locations, two in Portland and one in Eugene.
The Los Angeles retailer first filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in October 2015, about a year after it fired Charney for violating its sexual harassment policy. Charney's lengthy legal campaign to retake control of the company was rejected by a bankruptcy court judge in January.
Charney denies the sexual harassment charges and has claimed the company was taken from him in a "coup."
The company brought in CEO Paula Schneider to usher the company out of bankruptcy, but she left earlier this year as the turnaround stalled.
For more than a decade, American Apparel has been defined by, and criticized for, its racy ads, often depicting barely dressed young women in sexually suggestive poses.
Though the ad campaign helped put American Apparel on the map, it has struggled like other retailers since the recession. A host of mall staples -- Aeropostale, Pacific Sunwear, Wet Seal and Deilia's --have also filed for bankruptcy protection in the past few years.
Even as department stores like Macy's, Kohl's and Penney's prepare for a holiday season that may be the best in years, they have been unable to produce consistently positive results because consumer behavior has shifted so drastically, both in where and what is bought.
Many more people shop on online, and more dollars are going toward technology, travel, or nights out.
American Apparel, which manufactures all of its clothes in the U.S., has lost money every year since 2010.
-- The Associated Press
Sting
Sting performs at the GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles, California, on Oct. 26, 2016. The musician will tour in 2017. (Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
(Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
Sting's return to pop will bring the former Police musician to the Moda Center on Feb. 2, 2017.
The musician will headline the venue's Theater of the Clouds, which converts the arena into a smaller, more intimate space.
Along with a three-piece band, he'll be hitting the road for "57th and 9th," an album billed as his first pop album since 2003's "Sacred Love." The new set was released on Friday, Nov. 11, and has positive reviews so far: Rolling Stone gave it three-and-a-half stars and praised its "newfound urgency."
The tour will land early in Portland--we'll be the second stop, following a performance at Vancouver's Commodore Ballroom. Musicians Joe Sumner and the Last Bandoleros will open the show.
In recent years, Sting's filled his time with projects such as a Police reunion, a 151-date run that reportedly grossed $362 million; a musical dubbed "The Last Ship"; and the classical album "Songs from the Labyrinth," a collaboration with the lute player Edin Karamazov.
Tickets will be available early to Sting.com fan club members and Citi cardmembers. For the general public, the on-sale starts Monday, Nov. 21 at 10 a.m., via LiveNation.com, Ticketmaster outlets and by phone at 1-800-745-3000.
-- David Greenwald
dgreenwald@oregonian.com
503-294-7625; @davidegreenwald
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Virgil Wells of Boring sells trees and turns them into bowls, back scratchers on other items
Law professors at the University of Oregon have taken opposite sides after a colleague wore blackface to a Halloween party. The law professor has said she'd hoped to spark conversations about race after dressing up as an African American author. While some professors say she should resign for her insensitivity, others say this is a teaching moment.
(Beth Nakamura/Staff)
Ofer Raban
On Halloween night, a University of Oregon law professor hosted a private party at her home attended by some faculty and students. She donned a costume representing an African American doctor, including a hospital gown and the coloring of her face.
The professor in question had a long record of advocacy for the rights of minorities. She was even nominated for the university's Martin Luther King Jr. Award. In fact, she wore the costume to honor an African American hero of hers (Dr. Damon Tweedy, author of "Black Man in a White Coat.") There seems to be no doubt that there was no malicious intent in donning the costume.
The reaction of the law school dean and some of its faculty was swift: The dean placed the professor on administrative leave and a majority of faculty members signed a letter calling on her to resign.
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on the debate at the University of Oregon.
"We are angry," proclaimed the letter, twice. "You need to resign. It doesn't matter what your intentions were. It doesn't matter if (your conduct) was protected by the First Amendment."
The idea that intentions don't matter when evaluating a person's culpability -- which appeared both in the faculty letter and in an email written by an associate dean and circulated to the students -- is not just wrong but also contradicted by what law professors preach daily in their classrooms.
Measuring individual culpability by reference to one's intent is a foundational principle of our criminal law, our tort law, our contract law, or our constitutional doctrine. In fact, that principle -- absent from primitive legal systems -- is considered one of the greatest civilizing forces of our law.
For law professors to claim that intentions don't matter is, frankly, preposterous. (Even more ludicrous was the remark of another university professor, who wrote to the university president that the absence of a racist intent "makes it worse" in his view, because it showed ignorance and callous disregard for minorities.)
The event in question was attended by some students and faculty, but it did not take place in a classroom or even on campus. The costume was donned at an after-hours private party at the professor's own home. This, combined with the fact that the costume was donned without any malice -- to the contrary, in an attempt to celebrate an American hero -- should have obviated any demand for giving up one's livelihood, let alone a suspension. Moreover, let's remember that we are dealing with a public university professor at a time that many of us fear might prove challenging to academic freedom.
I do not speak only for myself at the law school when I say that the dean's response, and the faculty's letter, were a disgrace. This was a failure of leadership and pedagogy, and opposition to it within the law school was expressed from day one.
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This regrettable Halloween event was a teachable moment, but it ended up teaching many wrong lessons. Surely, this was a moment to teach about racial sensitivity and awareness of history, and of what it means to live as a racial minority in this country. But it was also a moment to teach other valuable lessons for law students: Do not rush to judgment. Deliberate carefully, away from emotions running high. Consider all the relevant factors. And show compassion for human fallibility.
At a time of an emboldened pernicious racism, the refusal to recognize the distinction between malicious racism and a stupid but well-intentioned mistake is not only a moral and legal travesty, it is also fodder for the real enemies of racial equality.
Ofer Raban is a professor of law at the University of Oregon.
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Donald Trump speaks during an August campaign rally in Erie, Pennsylvania.
(Evan Vucci/Associated Press)
TRUMP AND CLIMATE CHANGE: If the Republican Party and their president-elect persist in denying overwhelming scientific evidence and still insist that climate change is a hoax, the planet is in for some very dark days indeed. The world's plan for controlling greenhouse gases is likely to collapse if we turn a blind eye to the approaching catastrophe and undo all the mechanisms recently put in place to begin to find a solution.
The world is holding its breath to see what the new Congress and president will do. If they take the path they have proclaimed up to now, they will forever receive the opprobrium they deserve for condemning our children and grandchildren to the forces of nature that will beset and torment civilization well into the rest of this century and beyond.
James L. Boone, Northwest Portland
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'LIVE WITH IT': The American majority spoke. Donald J. Trump is our new leader and commander in chief. Those celebrities threatening to leave America? Don't let the door hit you in the you-know-where; you won't be missed. Everyone else? Live with it.
This, I have to say, has been the most ridiculous and disgusting campaign to date. Eight nightmare years of Barack Obama are over. Let's move on and pray that the new administration can repair the damage done and bring back jobs and the prosperity we once knew. I have been unemployed for two years; others longer than that. I would really love to have a job again, and I have faith the Lord and the new administration will bring that about.
I really cannot believe the rants coming out of Hollywood and from liberals everywhere. They are afraid of having to give up their lawless and immoral ways. Well, boo hoo! The majority spoke. Now live with it. Oh, yeah -- all you people talking assassination on social media, you're not impressing anyone and I really hope you get caught and pay the full price.
How about we all work together with Mr. Trump and make this country great again instead of taking it deeper into the sewer?
Ken Bellamy, Hillsboro
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LETTER TO HILLARY CLINTON: We, as a nation, can now thank you for making sure Donald Trump would be our president by the electoral college system. And why, might you ask? Well, you have had political aspirations your entire adult life and, aided and abetted by your life experiences, you decided to become the first woman president, come hell or high water, knowing all along there were insurmountable negatives about your career as the secretary of state. The Democratic National Committee did little, if nothing, to slow down your resolve, thus not allowing more electable candidates to proceed to potential victory. I can only hope you do not sleep well for the next several years, knowing how you have managed to turn our nation on its side if not upside down. Shame on you, Hillary.
Carolyn Blume, Southeast Portland
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LETTER TO TWO GROUPS: Dear Democratic National Committee: Congratulations! You nominated the one person on Earth who could still unite the Republican Party. Our new president-elect really couldn't have done it without you. (But don't expect a thank you note.)
Dear Trump Voters: My condolences on your victory. I know it tastes sweet; I've been there. But you're in for four bitter years of disillusionment.
Lincoln Hills, Hillsboro
By Eugene Robinson
WASHINGTON -- The people chose Hillary Clinton. But it's the electoral vote that counts, not the popular vote, so Donald Trump will be president. And no, I'm not over it.
No one should be over it. No one should pretend that Trump will be a normal president. No one should forget the bigotry and racism of his campaign, the naked appeals to white grievance, the stigmatizing of Mexicans and Muslims. No one should forget the jaw-dropping ignorance he showed about government policy both foreign and domestic. No one should forget the vile misogyny. No one should forget the mendacity, the vulgarity, the ugliness, the insanity. None of this must ever be normalized in our politics.
The big protests that have followed Trump's election should be no surprise. You can't spend all those months trashing our nation's values and then expect everyone to join you in a group hug. Trump made the bed in which he now must lie.
How did the unthinkable happen? Is Trump, like Brexit, part of some world-sweeping populist wave? Are the Rust Belt hinterlands in open rebellion? Was Clinton just a spectacularly flawed candidate? Did FBI Director James Comey boost Trump over the top? Did too many anti-Trump voters stay home out of complacency?
There is evidence to support all of those theories. But the urgent question isn't why, it's what now.
If a normal Republican had been elected, I could say the polite and socially acceptable thing, something like, "I didn't support So-and-So but he will be my president, too, and I wish him success." But I cannot wish Trump success in rounding up and deporting millions of people or banning Muslims from entering the country or reinstituting torture as an instrument of U.S. policy. In these and other divisive or cruel or unwise initiatives, I wish him failure.
I do hope he succeeds in avoiding some kind of amateurish foreign policy blunder that puts American lives or vital national interests at risk. And let me be clear that I am not questioning his legitimacy as president. When the results are certified and the Electoral College casts its votes, Trump will be the nation's duly chosen leader, ridiculous though that may be.
But he has not earned our trust or hope. Rather, he has earned the demonstrations that erupted in cities across the country. He has earned relentless scrutiny by journalists, whom he shamelessly made into scapegoats during the campaign, and he has earned the constant vigilance of the public he now must serve.
There have been more than 200 reports since the election of harassment and hate crimes, mostly directed at minorities, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center. During an interview broadcast Sunday on "60 Minutes," Trump addressed his supporters: "I will say this, and I will say right to the cameras: Stop it."
That would have been a better start had he not also sought to minimize the incidents, saying there had been a "very small amount" of them; and had he not also claimed the media were somehow applying a double standard in reporting on the protests.
The most troubling post-election development thus far was Trump's appointment of campaign chief executive Steve Bannon -- a prominent figure in the racist, xenophobic "alt-right" movement -- as chief strategist and senior adviser. A spokesman for Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said the move "signals that white supremacists will be represented at the highest levels in Trump's White House."
On "60 Minutes," Trump hinted that he might moonwalk away from some of his most radical promises on immigration, the issue that made him stand out from the crowd of Republican contenders. He still says he will build a wall on the Mexican border, but there "could be some fencing" instead of an actual wall in places. And he said that "we're going to make a determination" about the fate of millions of undocumented immigrants who have not committed crimes -- sounding as if he knows his pledge to carry out mass deportation cannot be fulfilled.
He also backed away from the idea of having a special prosecutor reinvestigate Clinton over her emails. "They're good people, I don't want to hurt them," he said of Bill and Hillary Clinton.
If Trump is beginning to confront reality on some fronts, that's a first step -- in a thousand-mile journey toward credibility and respect. But appointing Bannon is a big step backward. We must watch Trump, and judge him, every single inch of the way.
Eugene Robinson's email address is eugenerobinsonwashpost.com.
(c) 2016, Washington Post Writers Group
Groundbreaking: Toy Story Land is coming to Shanghai Disneyland in 2018. (Photo : Disney Parks Blog)
Woody, Buzz Lightyear and other characters from Toy Story will soon come to life in Shanghai Disneyland.
The recent groundbreaking ceremony for the Toy Story Land was attended by Bob Iger, chairman and chief executive officer of Walt Disney Company; Bob Chapek, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts; and Fan Xiping, chairman of Shanghai Shendi Group.
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It has only been five months since the opening of Shanghai Disneyland, but an expansion is already on its way. Thanks to the amusement park lovers in China. According to an LA Times report, four million people visited the theme park on its first four months of operation.
According to Disney Parks Blog, the plan for expansion was started as early as before the opening of the theme park last June, and because of the popularity and well reception of Toy Story in China, it became the subject for expansion.
The Shanghai Disney Resort has a Toy Story-themed hotel already, and this is actually the only resort hotel in the world dedicated to the characters and stories from Toy Story.
Chairman Chapek said that the new Toy Story Land will be both authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese. It will feature the backyard of Andy, the boy who owns the toys Woody and Buzz in the movie, and will create a feeling as if the visitors have been shrunk to the size of a toy.
The Toy Story Land, opening in 2018, will be the seventh themed land in Shanghai Disneyland and will be certainly a great place to meet and play with old and new--all favorite--toys.
Chinese Vice Premier Ma Kai and British Chancellor Philip Hammond speak at a press conference following the 8th U.K.-China Economic and Financial Dialogue (EFD) at Lancaster House on Nov. 10. (Photo : Getty Images)
The glow of the "golden era" or special relationship between China and Britain was said to be fading but the relationship between the two countries continues with new collaboration in joint ventures and financial partnerships.
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The Financial Times reported that the signs of that era are slowly wearing off with the exit of George Osborne, Britain's former chancellor, who promoted Britain as China's foremost friend in the West and also promised to open U.K.'s nuclear sector to China.
According to the report, Osborne and Treasury minister Jim O'Neill have spent years enticing China and their departure from service had taken away from the British government two of its most eager and knowledgeable people on China affairs.
The report however, said that only the rhetoric of the "era" was present but the enthusiasm for the new epoch is missing.
This was despite a press conference held in London last week where the new chancellor, Philip Hammond met with Ma Kai, China's vice-premier, and a list of joint ventures, including new collaborations between the financial centers of London and Shanghai, were rolled off.
The report added that the mood also changed after Theresa May, the new prime minister, ordered a review of China's involvement in the Hinkley Point nuclear project. China was also upset by the new security measures introduced on Chinese investments.
Lord Mandelson, the former Labour business secretary, said that the relationship between the two countries "hit a bump in the road but had stabilized" over the Hinkley project, although Chinese investment was eventually allowed to proceed on the project.
"It may no longer be the same love affair as under [David] Cameron and Osborne but relations are workmanlike and we have a lot to offer each other," Mandelson was quoted as saying.
In addition, the replacement of Lou Jiwei, the Chinese finance minister seen as "worldly and innovative" by U.K. ministers and regarded as a reformer in Beijing, has contributed to this mood.
But although the mood has changed, the bilateral ties, particularly in financial services, are in placed as indicated by the latest U.K.-China economic dialogue at Lancaster House in London, where Hammond pledged to provide market access and close collaboration with China. This includes a new negotiation to link the Shanghai and London stock exchanges and further enhance capital markets.
On the other hand, China agreed to work towards allowing foreigners to own life insurance firms in mainland China. It also promised to boost regulatory cooperation and increase market access for fintech companies from both countries.
Several Chinese companies will also open offices in Britain, which include China Life, the country's largest life insurer, and the Shanghai Clearing House.
Ma said that China desires "a fair and just system for companies gaining access to each other's markets" and claimed the China-U.K. relations were at "a historical starting point."
On the issue of steel dumping, Hammond said that there was "still a problem" despite China "significantly reducing its overall steel output."
Lord O'Neill, the former Goldman Sachs chief economist who resigned as a Treasury minister in September, said that he supports government efforts to enhance economic ties with China.
"I think it's very important to maintain the 'golden relationship,'" the former minister said. "In a post-Brexit world it is even more important."
'Grey's Anatomy' cast pose backstage the People's Choice Awards 2016 at Microsoft Theater on January 6, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo : Getty Images/ Frazer Harrison)
"Grey's Anatomy" Season 13 episode 8 had fans understand the surgeon's struggle as each walked through their haunting pasts.
The last episode put Richard, Owen, Stephanie, and Meredith in a difficult operation. In their attempt to find a way to save the patient's life, power struggles ensued in the operating room and each of them was forced to picture out the man differently.
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The atmosphere in the room suddenly changed when a nurse interrupted and told them about a woman who looks for her husband and said that the latter has two kids. At that time. Stephanie was suddenly taken back to her childhood and at last found a voice where she got the courage to speak up about the approach they should be taking and finally convinced her colleagues on how to save the patient. Stephanie explained that he actually has autoimmune disease which explains his unstoppable bleeding and so they were able to save him.
The next episode seems to be a lot more intense though. The so-called winter finale of "Grey's Anatomy" is suddenly considered as one of the most-awaited series installment in ABC in 2016.
Rumors has it that this finale will unleash the future of Dr. Alex Karev (Justin Chamber). Accordingly, truths will be unleashed and justice is bound to be served either to Alex Karev or Andrew DeLuca. Previously, Alex beat hard Andrew when he found out that Jo was in the latter's bed. And the verdict for what happened will be revealed in the next episode. He could either go to jail or get kicked out from the hospital.
According to reports, episode 9 will also have Karev make a big decision. Many hint that Alex will leave the show although this is not what others hoped for Justin's character, as the latter is one of the few original cast members of the show who made it until "Grey's Anatomy" Season 13.
Meanwhile, Richard still demands that Bailey explain why Eliza Minnick is in Grey Sloan. The latter is the newest cast member in the show, who is portrayed by Marina Dominczyk, and fans are already getting excited over the chemistry between Arizona and her.
While others leave, there are those who are rumored to come back. Reports suggest that Cristina Yang (Sandra Oh) might come bac. Although Deadline reported that Oh is confirmed to come back in small screens, unfortunately, the actress said that she will be part of "American Crime" and not "Grey's Anatomy." Nevertheless, the actress is not closing the idea of coming back to the show, although she pointed out that it would not be anytime soon.
"Grey's Anatomy" airs every Thursdays at 8 pm.
It's become the annual Thanksgiving controversy: Should all stores (save for the ones hawking turkey and stuffing) be closed on Thanksgiving and Black Friday so that employees can enjoy the holiday with their families?
Several employers think so, resulting in a growing list of stores closed on Thanksgiving and the Friday after, which has become a dreaded nightmare for anyone who works retail.
The 100 Season 4 will have no Lexa; Luna coming back in the next apocalypse?
What awaits Octavia (Marie Avgeropoulos) in "The 100" Season 4? (Photo : Facebook/The 100)
"The 100" fans cannot expect to have Lexa in the next episode of the series, but Luna will be up to face yet another apocalypse.
"The 100" Season 3 finale brought many fans to tears as Lexa's character bid goodbye to the series. It can be remembered that Lexa (Alycia Debnam-Carey) was killed by Tutus (Neil Sandiland) whose real target was Clarke.
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The death of Lexa brought mixed reactions and many clamor for her to be revived in the upcoming season. The issue of her death even caused a stir in the LGBT community, saying that her character was killed because the world is yet unprepared to see a successful and happy lesbian relationship.
However, Variety reported that Executive Producer Jason Rothenberg was very quick in putting off the issue, saying that they cannot have Lexa back in Season 4 via San Diego Comic Con.
Rothenberg shared a spoiler that Clarke will be distracted by the secret she knows that her grief over Lexa's demise will be barely felt, although it is said that she will not have any love interest for the mean time to appease many fans who have yet to move on over Lexa's death.
Furthermore, another character, Luna, will make its way to "The 100" Season 4 due to another apocalypse - a nuclear meltdown - impending to happen. Luna (Nadia Hiker) is the leader of the pacifist clan who opted not to share ties with the mainland inhabitants, although with the danger coming, she will be compelled to break off her indifference.
Hiker shared with Blastr that Luna will try to prove that she is far stronger and better than Lexa. According to the actress, things are getting bloody and this is something that fans have to watch for.
The next season run of "The 100" will be a question of who will be saved and who will be left to die.
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This year, there's a long list of retailers closing on Thanksgiving to allow employees to spend the holiday with their families.
Others are staying open from Thanksgiving Day through Black Friday.
It's become a controversial topic of conversation around the holiday season, whether stores should be operating on this holiday. On social media, the overwhelming response is that shop owners should prioritize the personal lives of their employees over their revenue.
RELATED: Thanksgiving traditions people can't live without
"Thanksgiving isn't for shopping. It's for time to spend with your family. If businesses are so hard up to keep their shops open during this day then they need to reevaluate their marketing strategies and their bottom line," one Houston Chronicle commenter recently wrote in response to an article about retailers that are staying closed. (Story continues below.)
>>Click to see the retailers that will be open and closed this Thanksgiving in the gallery above.
That hasn't swayed too many shoppers, as can be attested by the throngs of crowds that convene on Houston-area malls and outlets.
At least one major retailer has already announced that it will remain open an hour earlier Thanksgiving Day.
Macy's will open at 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving, and most locations will remain open until 2 a.m. The stores will reopen at 5 a.m. for Black Friday.
In a statement issued to the Associated Press, a spokesperson for the retailer explained that it won't require employees to work through the holiday.
"We are working diligently to staff Thanksgiving with associates who volunteer," Macy's told the Associated Press. "Doing so means that our employees are able to make their own decisions about how they contribute to our most important and busiest weekend of the year."
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, the Midland County Emergency Food Pantry Network is collaborating with churches and organizations in the area to make sure that 400 families in need receive food, personal care items and gift cards in Thanksgiving baskets. A youth group at Trinity Lutheran Church took the program a step further and put together pies to include in the baskets.
I really like helping people who dont have as much as I do, said Samantha Zudwick, as she took a break from packaging pies last Sunday night. Giving someone a pie for dessert is really nice. If I was in their situation, I would want something done like this for me.
But choosing the right kind of pie presents a challenge. Do you go with pumpkin, apple or pecan? And what recipe will serve as a guide? Thankfully, a recipe was ready at hand.
Years ago we made a Trinity cookbook that congregation members contributed, Youth Director Alex Crabtree said. They [the recipes] had to be tested first, I think, before they were put in, but Im assuming its a pretty ancient recipe from a member of the past. And its been trustworthy weve used it since.
Over the years, Trinity Lutheran has helped collect supplies to go into the Thanksgiving baskets including providing turkeys but in the past couple of years, the church wanted to do something different.
It was our idea, along with contributing turkeys for the effort, to do something special for the families to receive so we made apple pies as a way of adding a special touch, said Pastor Gerald Ferguson in response to an email.
Pastor Gerald walked into my office two weeks ago and asked if it was something I would be interested in getting started and running with the high school youth, Crabtree explained. Once a month we do some kind of service project with our youth group time and it was perfect timing when he came to me with that idea because I was working on this months service project. Our youth are really passionate about serving the community.
Nearly 20 students and parents gathered in the churchs kitchen and gathering hall last weekend to put the pies together and freeze them. One group remained in the kitchen, coring and peeling apples by the bushel, placing dough in disposable foil containers and scooping large helpings of apples and streusel topping into the tins. The second group, stationed in the spacious gathering hall adjacent to the kitchen, set to work wrapping the pies in wax paper, marking Ziploc bags with baking instructions and placing the pies four to a tray to be frozen. All the while jokes were made, coring competitions were conducted and smiles could be found on every face.
Its nice to see different families get to have a dessert thats homemade, said Ashley Siegmund, who helped label bags. And to put the love and hard work into it to get it to them so they have something special that not everyone will have.
Especially for the holiday season, its nice to have some pie. Especially Thanksgiving, Hannah Pennington chimed in.
The youth group has completed several projects in the past, some local, and some national. They have raked leaves, collected cans of food and cereal, built access ramps for the disabled and participated in annual mission trips around the country to fix homes.
Were so used to going out to different communities and doing work for them, but we do get chances to work for Midland but I feel like that is more special because that is where I come from, Sam Luzar reflected while taking a break from peeling fruit.
With two groups making and packaging pies, along with a couple helpers carrying trays between the kitchen, gathering room and freezers, the number of pies reached nearly 40 within the first hour.
Were going to make as many as we humanly can. There are up to 400 Thanksgiving baskets that get given away. I dont think were going to be able to make 400, but were going to try to make as many as we can.
While the youth group was unable to meet the lofty 400 goal, they managed to package 100 pies. Next week, sixth through eighth grade students will help load up a trailer with the pies, turkeys and donations from the congregation to be taken to Aldersgate United Methodist Church for distribution. Not every family receiving the baskets will get a pie, but the love and support of the community will be evident in every package.
For more information about the Thanksgiving basket program and other special donation opportunities throughout the year, visit midlandcountyefpn.org/special-donations/
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Delta College has selected a location in the 300 block of East Genesee Avenue (at Franklin, Tuscola and Baum) to construct a new building in downtown Saginaw to serve the educational needs of students from the city and surrounding Saginaw County.
Key reasons the team selected this site, from the nine sites considered, include:
Ideal site availability with great feasibility for construction
Economical to acquire and develop
Close proximity to urban amenities, including Hoyt Public Library and the future SVRC Marketplace
Convenient access to the STARS public bus terminal, with six routes passing the new site
Abundant public parking resources nearby
Convenient transportation linkages, including I-675 access and other major urban circulation routes
Prominent frontage and visibility on Genesee Avenue
Ready access to utilities and infrastructure
Potential to contribute to the downtown character
Delta Colleges Saginaw Center will include 11 classrooms, basic science and computer labs, technology and special use training rooms. It is a priority to improve the educational environment of Deltas Saginaw location to more appropriately match that of its other higher education facilities.
In 2016, 41.2 percent of Delta Colleges enrollment is from Saginaw County and its the largest population center of Deltas three county service area of Saginaw, Bay and Midland counties. Although enrollment is down slightly at Delta College, improved facilities and program offerings at the Saginaw Center is expected to help increase enrollment.
As proposed, the building will be 24,000 assignable square feet in size (35,000 gross square feet) with a future maximum enrollment of 1,250 people. It is anticipated to take a number of years to increase enrollment to that level.
By investing in a building, rather than continue to lease space, Delta is planning for the next two or three decades of service delivery, said Dr. Jean Goodnow, Delta College president.
We will offer close-to-home educational classes for many students making their first strides into the post-secondary educational realm. This educational magnet will support student aspirations, whose success affects not only themselves, but their entire families. And, Deltas ability to deliver the highest caliber college education and work force training will be greatly enhanced, she added.
The estimated cost of the construction is $12.739 million. The state of Michigan will provide 50 percent of the total cost, or about $6.4 million. The remainder has been saved by Delta College to meet the 50 percent match requirement.
Since the site property chosen is city owned, the agreement will need to be approved by the Saginaw City Council at its Monday, Nov. 21, meeting. Then, there are many more steps to complete before the building will open. Delta College has engaged WTA Architects of Saginaw to provide architectural and engineering services for the Saginaw Center.
Additional dates include:
January 2017 Hire construction manager to work with the project team
March 2018 Start on the construction phase (weather dependent)
March 2018 to May 2019 Construction continues on the project
May 2019 Building occupancy
When combined with other data, Delta has identified many people to serve with a new Saginaw Center. Research of the demographics show a large number of potential students within a close radius of the chosen location:
4,700 high school students
4,450 people aged 18 to 24 years old
8,750 people aged 25 to 44
9,450 people 45 to 64 years old
And others who may have a degree, but need some retraining
Delta College is committed to serving all of its taxpaying communities and is pleased to be addressing a need in the region where a majority of students live, Board Chair Michael Rowley said. While located in the downtown area, it will be within easy access for everyone in Saginaw County and beyond.
The centrally-located site can attract students from the city, but would also attract from all 19 Saginaw County school districts. The Saginaw Center will serve as an entry point for health care and skilled trades, housed on the main campus. It will also supply higher education to local residents through dual enrollment, as well as certificate and degree programs.
Rocky Hill Community Church in Exeter outgrows cafe, continues to experience growth.
Who needs Jesus? bellowed Rod Williams, a former riverboat captain who had a disdain for organized religion.
One day, the Holy Spirit answered that question for Williams as he stared at his own reflection. His soul caught fire for the Lord, and now he ministers to others in unique ways.
Williams owns a gun store and hosts a radio program where he talks about firearms. But he always finds a way to work Jesus into the conversation, says David Miller, pastor of Rocky Hill Community Church. Rods life was transformed, and now hes transforming lives.
Designed for the unchurched, dechurched and antichurched, Rocky Hill was planted in January 2010 when folks began meeting in a local coffee shop in Exeter, California. Although more than a dozen church plants in the area have failed in the past 15 years, this nondenominational church survived, in part, because Miller embraced networking. In small towns, its all about building relationships, says Miller, who became friends with the mayor, the police chief and members of the Lions Club. When the community validates you, others see this is an OK place to go.
After outgrowing the cafe, in April 2011 Rocky Hill merged congregations with the First Historic Baptist Church, which was on the verge of closing due to poor attendance. Moving into the old church building, which was constructed in 1916, felt risky. They had been meeting in a hip, downtown coffee shop with a neutral identityso they feared being perceived as churchy in the new digs and scaring people off.
But that didnt happen. Services are held on Thursday nights and Sunday mornings with an average weekend attendance of 300. Theres talk of adding a vintage service that will incorporate rich, old, celebratory hymns. Other goals include building a youth center, creating programs to strengthen marriages and developing programs for junior high, high school, young adults and seniors.
Perhaps one day well have 20 to 25 acres of land to make this all come to fruition, says Miller, who envisions a church of 3,000. We are committed to growing.
Pacific partnership staff and partner nation representatives met in Singapore, Nov. 8-10, for a planning conference to finalize details for the upcoming mission, slated for the spring of 2017.
In its 12th year, Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multilateral humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Asia-Pacific. This year's mission will be led by Deputy Commander, Riverine Group (CRG) 1, embarked on the Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Fall River (T-EPF-4), and will include more than 200 military and civilian personnel from the U.S., the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, Chile, Singapore and South Korea.
"This planning conference affords us the opportunity to build relationships with our partner nations that are critical to our success with the upcoming mission," said Capt. Stan Chien, deputy commodore of CRG-1 and Pacific Partnership mission commander. "Pacific Partnership allows us to establish, in some cases, and further develop, in other cases, multilateral cooperation with allied and partner nations. We look forward to continuing to work with them during the coming months."
Created in response to the devastation wrought by the 2004 tsunami that swept through parts of Southeast Asia, Pacific Partnership began as a military-led humanitarian response to one of the world's most catastrophic natural disasters.
The mission has evolved over the years from primarily a direct care mission to an operation focused on enhancing partnerships through host nation subject matter expert and civil-military exchanges. Pacific Partnership also capitalizes on multilateral cooperation and partnerships between government and non-government organizations to increase capabilities in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR) and preparedness for natural and man-made disasters.
"It has been an extremely positive experience collaborating and planning with our partner nations," said Army Capt. John Burns, country lead for the mission in Malaysia. "By once again participating in Pacific Partnership we are demonstrating our commitment and continued presence in this region."
Pacific Partnership 2017 will include mission stops in four partner nations throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. The partner nations will be announced before the mission begins in March.
Academy Of Motion Picture Arts And Sciences' 8th Annual Governors Awards - Show (Photo : Getty Images)
Even actor Tom Hanks acknowledged that the genre of Jackie Chans movies has been historically underrepresented at the Oscars when he introduced the 62-year-old Hong Kong actor on Saturday.
In his acceptance speech, Jackie Chan admitted that he dreamt of getting an Oscar award one day when he touched the statuette of Sylvester Stallone at the house of the Hollywood actor. Standing here is a dream After 56 years in the film industry, making more than 200 films, breaking so many bones, finally this is mine, LATimes quoted Jackie Chan.
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Hanks noted that Chan had produced, directed and acted in serious movies, but he admitted many of the actors movies were overlooked for awards simply because these were martial arts films. Hanks pointed out that great acting comes in different forms, however, fellow actors know one when they watch one.
How is this possible out of one man? His talents must truly be Chan-tastic, Hanks said, USA Today reported. Chan, together with film editor Anne V. Coates, casting director Lynn Stalmaster and documentary filmmaker Frederick Wiseman received an honorary Oscar at the Governors Award on Saturday night at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Hollywood & Highland Center.
Among the 200 films that Chan has been part of over five decades are the Rush Hour movies and Rumble in the Bronx. After breaking so many bones in these comedy-action flicks, Jackie Chan said, I still cannot believe I am standing here. Its a dream. He acknowledged the role of his millions of movie fans in his career, saying, Because of you, I have a reason to continue jumping into windows, kicking and punching and breaking my bones.
Hollywood bigwigs were spotted at the event such as director Judd Apatow, 20th Century Fox Chairman and CEO Stacey Snider, senior stars Helen Mirren, Bruce Dern and Warren Beatty and young stars such as Felicity Jones, Emma Stone and Greta Gerwing.
The cold, gray drizzle of November finally found Central Illinois on Election Day. No one complained, however, because the warm, dry harvest season had ended weeks before.
Fifty or more years ago, that was never the case on the southern Illinois dairy farm of my youth. In fact, if we were half-done with harvest on Election Day, we were very lucky. Done by Election Day? No one we knew was ever that lucky.
Back then, in the 1960s, Election Day was like a Sunday. My mother, a poll judge, would put on a church dress to earn, maybe, $10 over the 13- or 14-hour day. (The polling place, in fact, was a church.) And like Sunday, work stopped long enough for you to do your sacred duty. Moreover, in Illinois then, when the polls were open the taverns were closed.
That was a minor distraction to a local deputy who was the Democratic precinct boss as well as the owner of a well-known local watering hole. Officially, it was always closed on Election Day; unofficially, its back door was always open to anyone who voted right.
Not surprisingly, most everyone, either out of blind loyalty or blind thirst, did vote right and the precinct never went Republican while that deputy (later sheriff) wore a badge, a gun, and a knowing smile.
It took little convincing; most southern Illinois farm folks had been Democrats since the election of Franklin Roosevelt in 1932.
It was Roosevelt, after all, whose hopeful words carried them through the Depression; Roosevelt who brought electricity to their dark corner of nowhere; and, praise heaven, Roosevelt who delivered a monthly pension check so a lifetime of hard work left no one broken and broke.
That loyalty, like America itself, began to crack in 1968, the worst election year ever. The Tet offensive came that February, then Martin Luther Kings murder in April, and Bobbys in June. (My mother woke my siblings and me that awful morning with the shocked cry, They shot another Kennedy! They shot another Kennedy!) Summer ended in clouds of teargas and pools of blood at the Democratic convention in Chicago.
The ugly emptiness of the 2016 election might have been a bad dream but, by comparison, 1968 was a bloody nightmare.
My father, a thoughtful, informed voter for almost 70 years, backed Richard Nixon in 1968 because Nixon had promised to raise milk price supports, a key ingredient in our farms main enterprise. You have to vote for a man who understands farming, offered my father.
Nixon kept his word; he increased milk price supports before announcing his reelection bid in 1972. Shortly thereafter, Watergate investigators discovered he had done so only after pocketing at least $1 million in unreported campaign cash from the dairy lobby.
My father never commented on Nixons criminal deeds or the dairy lobbys dirty schemes. I suspect, however, that their corruption deeply offended him because he was a rules person. Rules, like fences, mattered. To him, breaking the rules to win wasnt winning. It was, in fact, losing because it meant you had first lost your dignity, then your honor.
Republicans didnt have the corner on the corruption market in the southern Illinois of my youth. Two years before Watergate, a well-known Illinois Democrat, Secretary of State Paul Powell, died after a brief illness. Within weeks, his executor discovered several shoe boxes filled with $800,000 in cash in Powells Springfield hotel room, as well as 49 cases of whiskey, 14 transistor radios, and two cases of canned corn.
That was quite a haul for a southern Illinois boy who never made more than $30,000 a year as an elected official.
Powell, like Nixon and the vote right sheriff, werent arent the only scoundrels to hold public office. In fact, its quite likely we elected more than a few crooks, cheaters, and knuckleheads this Election Day. We usually do. These folks, however, come and go.
BLOOMINGTON An Arkansas-based restaurant chain that has seen explosive growth in recent years plans to offer its southern-inspired chicken in the Twin Cities next year.
A new Slim Chickens restaurant is expected to open in March at 1515 N. Veterans Parkway in Bloomington. The site is between La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries and FedEx, just south of General Electric Road.
We're a fast-casual concept. We're not fast food. We bring the food to the table after you order it," said Brian Simowitz, Slim Chickens vice president of franchise operations.
For us, it's all about the food quality and service and the environment. We're a southern hospitality-type brand," he added. "We play blues music so we have very good atmosphere in the restaurant.
The restaurant's featured items, fresh chicken tenders and chicken wings, are hand-breaded and cooked to order. It also offers 13 homemade dipping sauces, salads, sandwiches, wraps, fried mushrooms, fried pickles and fried okra.
The price point average is from $3.99 to $7.99, said Simowitz.
Ground has been broken and construction is expected to begin soon on the 2,800-square-foot restaurant with a total capacity of 138 people. It also will have a patio dining area, said Simowitz.
Slim Chickens Area Director David Harris will oversee the Bloomington restaurant, along with one in East Peoria and another that opened Oct. 19 in Champaign.
"We're doing the ground work right now. We're hoping we can get the parking lot and concrete done before it starts to freeze," said Harris. "From that point on we'll do the process of putting up the building over the next few months, and probably shoot for March to open."
The restaurant's hours will be from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week.
The Bloomington restaurant expects to employ 75 to 80 people, Harris said.
Bloomington-Normal will be among 40 to 50 new Slim Chickens restaurants that are expected to open in 2017.
Greg Smart and Tim Gordon founded the Slim Chickens brand with a restaurant they opened in 2003 in Fayetteville, Ark. Gordon's mother came up with the name, Slim Chickens.
In the last two years the chain has grown from 11 to 45 restaurants, both franchised and company-owned, in 10 states.
We have quite a few restaurants in towns where there are universities, so Bloomington-Normal was attractive because it has great universities," said Simowitz. "Our brand appeals to a wide range of consumers families, college kids, business people. Who doesn't like chicken tenders? But we do really do well when we're near universities.
Bloomington-Normal
Americana, The Homely Creek and American Evolution; through Nov. 27, Jan Brandt Gallery, 1106 W. Bell St., Bloomington; photography by Ted Diamond, paintings by Ann E. Coulter, colored pencil portraits by Ivonne Bess; viewing by appointment at janbrandtgallery@gmail.com.
Chicken Foot Gourd Bowls; through Dec. 9; Heartland Community College Joe McCauley Gallery, Instructional Commons Building Room 2507, 1500 W. Raab Road, Normal; ceramics by Danell Dvorak and drawings/paintings of them by John Cassidy; free; 309-268-8620.
ISU University Galleries; noon-4 p.m. Mon., 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Tue., 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Wed.-Fri., noon-4 p.m. Sat.-Sun., Uptown Station, 11 Uptown Circle, Normal; rotating exhibits in three galleries; free; 309-438-8321.
Strange Oscillations and Vibrations of Sympathy; through Dec. 18, ISU University Galleries, see above; works by contemporary female artists that acknowledge women writers. Related events: screenings of Dawn Roe's "The Sunshine Bores/The Daylights," through Dec. 18, Milner Library.
IWU Merwin and Wakeley Galleries; school hours, noon-4 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 1-4 p.m. Sat.-Sun., 7-9 p.m. Tue.; 302 E. Graham St., Bloomington; rotating exhibits; free; 309-556-3391.
Biosphere; through Dec. 9, IWU Merwin Gallery, see above; prints by Taryn McMahon.
Hatta-Hatta; through Dec. 9, IWU Wakeley Gallery, see above; paintings and mixed-media works by Gretchen Beck.
McLean County Arts Center; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Tue., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wed.-Fri., noon-4 p.m. Sat.; 601 N. East St., Bloomington; rotating exhibits, sales, rentals, art classes and lectures; free; 309-829-0011.
Holiday Treasures Exhibition and Sale; through Dec. 31, McLean County Arts Center, see above; affordable works and seasonal items by more than 60 local and national artists.
McLean County Museum of History; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat. (until 9 p.m. Tue.), 200 N. Main St., Bloomington; permanent and rotating exhibits; adults $5, seniors $4, students, children under 12 and members free; 309-827-0428.
Challenges, Choices and Change: Making a Home; McLean County Museum of History, see above; new permanent exhibit exploring experiences of people from around the world who made McLean County their home.
Abraham Lincoln in McLean County; McLean County Museum of History, see above; new permanent exhibit on Lincoln's life in Bloomington.
Prairie Aviation Museum; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Thu.-Sat., noon-4 p.m. Sun., 2929 E. Empire St., Bloomington; permanent and rotating exhibits and displays with aerial history themes; adults $5, ages 6-11 $3, 5 and under free; 309-663-7632.
Central Illinois
U of I Krannert Art Museum; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.-Sat. (until 9 p.m. Thu. during fall and spring semesters), 2-5 p.m. Sun., 500 E. Peabody Drive, Champaign; paintings, porcelain, historical artifacts, traveling art exhibits; $3 donation suggested; 217-333-1861.
Zina Saro-Wiwa: Did You Know We Taught Them How to Dance?; through March 25, U of I Krannert Art Museum, see above; video installations, photographs, more.
Making and Breaking Medieval Manuscripts; through Feb. 11, U of I Krannert Art Museum, see above; hand-drawn/embellished scrolls, books and maps.
School of Art + Design Faculty Exhibition; through Dec. 22, U of I Krannert Art Museum, see above; various media.
Borderline Collective: Northern Triangle; through Dec. 22, U of I Krannert Art Museum, see above; installation featuring art works and historical documents.
Amity Township Museum; 1-3 p.m. first Sun. of month or by appointment, 510 Main St., Cornell; displays and artifacts relating to history of Cornell and Amity Township; free; 815-358-2973.
Eureka College Burgess Hall Art Gallery; 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. weekdays and by appointment on weekends, third floor of Burgess Hall, Eureka College, Eureka; rotating exhibits; free; 309-467-6866.
Simpkins Military History Museum; 1-5 p.m. Tue., Thu., Sat., or by appointment; 605 E. Cole St., Heyworth; permanent and rotating military history exhibits; free (donations accepted); 309-473-3989.
The Vietnam War 50th Anniversary; through Nov. 30, Simpkins Military History Museum, see above.
Dickson Mounds Museum; 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, 10956 N. Dickson Mounds Road, Lewistown; displays, special exhibits; free; 309-547-3721.
Lincoln Heritage Museum; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 1-4 p.m. Sat., Lincoln Center at Lincoln College, 300 Keokuk St., Lincoln; Lincoln-era items, audio-visual displays, tours, exhibits, more; adults $7, children/tours $4; 217-735-7399.
Contemporary Art Center of Peoria; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.-Sat., Riverfront Arts Center, 305 S.W. Water, Peoria; rotating exhibits in two galleries; free; 309-674-6822.
Staying the Course; through Dec. 16, Contemporary Art Center of Peoria, see above; works by Jenni Bateman, Nicola Blease-Perry, Ande Lister and Patricia Whalen-Keck. Artist talk, 3 p.m. Nov. 13.
A Small Wonder Gift Shop; through Dec. 16, Contemporary Art Center of Peoria, see above; holiday art gift show and sale.
Forest Park Nature Center Nature Art Show & Sale; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1-5 p.m. Sun., Nov. 19-Dec. 31, Forest Park Nature Center, 5809 Forest Park Drive, Peoria Heights; nature and wildlife art by local artists; 309-686-3360.
Peoria Art Guild; Foster Arts Center, Harrison and Washington streets, Peoria; rotating exhibits, gift shop; free; 309-637-2787.
Peoria Riverfront Museum; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Wed. and Sat., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thu.-Fri., noon-5 p.m. Sun., downtown riverfront Peoria; permanent and rotating exhibits, planetarium shows, Giant Screen Theater and events; $8-$11; 309-686-7000.
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition; through March 12, Peoria Riverfront Museum, see above; touring exhibit recovered artifacts from Titanic wreck site and room re-creations.
Museum of the Gilding Arts; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sun., April-Oct., and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Sun., Nov.-March, 217 N. Mill St., Pontiac; displays, history and hands-on exhibits dedicated to the art of gilding and gold beating; free (donations welcome); 815-842-1848.
Pontiac Community Art Center; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat.-Sun., 103 W. Madison St., Pontiac; rotating exhibits; 815-844-5831.
5 by 5; through Nov. 30, Pontiac Community Art Center, see above; art relating to the No. 5 to commemorate center's 5th anniversary.
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sun., 212 N. Sixth St., Springfield; Lincoln-themed exhibits, historical displays, special events, more; adults $12, seniors and students $9, ages 5-15 $5, under 5 free; 217-558-8844.
Rare and Rarely Seen; through Jan. 29, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum, see above; rarely exhibited items from museum's permanent collection.
Q: My application for VA health care benefits was denied several years ago because my income was above the VA means test. I served in Vietnam in 1968 and am concerned that my civilian physician may not be aware of the health consequences of being exposed to Agent Orange.
A: The VA recently has changed its eligibility rules for VA health care for certain veterans whose applications previously may have been denied due to the means test. Those veterans who served boots on the ground in Vietnam and brown-water and certain blue-water Navy Veterans may now be eligible for VA health care. Those veterans may now apply, or reapply if previously denied. The means test should no longer be a prohibition for such veterans to obtain VA health care. The Application for VA Health Care form 10-10 EZ can be obtained online at va.gov or if you need assistance in obtaining or completing the form, contact the McLean County Veterans Assistance Office at 309-888-5140.
Q: I am receiving a service-connected disability benefit from the VA. I heard recently that Social Security benefit recipients are going to receive a 0.3 percent increase in their benefit payments. Is the VA also granting an increase in service-connected disability benefits?
A: The VA has announced that, effective Dec. 30, 2016, recipients of VA service-connected disability benefits will receive the same 0.3 percent increase. Increases in veterans' benefits are not automatically tied to increases in Social Security benefits. However, Congress passed legislation in July linking the two benefits for 2017.
Q: I really appreciate that I can receive my seasonal flu shot at no charge through my VA clinic. However, the round trip to Peoria, just to get a flu shot, seems excessive. Do I have any other options to receive my flu shot?
A: Veterans who have a VA medical card can now receive their seasonal flu shots at any Walgreens pharmacy. The veteran must present his/her VA medical card to the Walgreens pharmacy representative at the time of service in order to receive the shot at no charge.
News: This week the VA announced a nationwide study the Vietnam Era Health Retrospective Observational Study (VE-HEROeS) that will assess the current health and well-being of Vietnam veterans, blue-water Navy veterans and veterans who served elsewhere during the Vietnam era (1961-1975). Approximately 43,000 veterans will be invited to participate in this study. Veterans who receive the invitations should participate.
Verso Announces Strategic Business Unit Organization, Corporate Office Consolidation and Overhead Expense Reduction Project Nov. 14, 2016 (Press Release) - Verso Corporation (VRS) today announced three strategic initiatives designed to drive increased efficiency in the allocation of its resources, reduce the company's cost of doing business, and improve Verso's operating and financial performance. As part of its comprehensive strategy to position the company for success in a challenging industry, Verso plans to organize its business into two strategic business units graphic paper and specialty paper; consolidate its corporate offices in Memphis, Tennessee, and Miamisburg, Ohio, into a single headquarters to be located in Miamisburg; and improve the delivery of its support services with the objective of reducing overhead expenses by at least 10 percent on an annual basis. Planning for each of these initiatives is underway, with implementation set to begin in January 2017. "We expect that the strategic initiatives announced today will enable Verso to be more agile in adapting to an evolving marketplace, more responsive to our customers, more efficient and cost-effective in our operations, and ultimately more financially successful," said Robert M. Amen, Verso's Chairman of the Board. Strategic Business Unit Organization The strategic organization of Verso's business into graphic paper and specialty paper business units is intended to provide greater focus, responsiveness and accountability. Each business unit will develop and implement strategies for responding to the specific market conditions and unique customer requirements of its business segment. Each business unit will operate in a semi-autonomous manner and will be responsible for its own revenues, costs and profitability. Both business units will receive overall strategic direction from Verso's Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer and will be supported by a centralized administrative staff. Verso's graphic paper business unit will be led by Michael A. Weinhold, and its specialty paper business unit will be led by Jason J. Handel. Both Weinhold and Handel are seasoned executives at Verso with extensive backgrounds and experience in the businesses they will oversee. Currently, Weinhold serves as Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Product Development, while Handel serves as Group Vice President of Technical Sales and Product Development. In the new organization, Weinhold and Handel each will have the title of President of the business unit that he leads and will report directly to Verso's Chief Executive Officer. "The strategic business unit organization will further strengthen Verso's relationships with our graphic paper and specialty paper customers by allowing us to focus more closely on their distinctive business needs," said Weinhold. Handel added, "Our ultimate goal is to help our customers be more successful by meeting, and exceeding, their expectations. If we can achieve these results while consistently maximizing Verso's manufacturing efficiency and cost-effectiveness, we will make great strides toward enhancing Verso's profitability and success for a long time to come." Corporate Office Consolidation The planned consolidation of the Memphis and Miamisburg corporate offices reflects a common-sense approach to organizing and locating Verso's support functions. Verso has about 60 employees in Memphis and more than 200 employees in Miamisburg, resulting in considerable redundancy and inefficiency. Consolidating these employees in a single location not only will reduce costs and improve efficiency, but it also will strengthen the performance of Verso's corporate staff by fostering increased familiarity, better communication, closer camaraderie and other benefits that naturally occur when people work together. "We understand that the planned consolidation of Verso's corporate offices will cause disruption in the lives of the Memphis office employees who make the move to Miamisburg and will create additional challenges for those who do not," said Kenneth D. Sawyer, Verso's Senior Vice President of Human Resources and Communications. "Verso is committed to treating all our Memphis office employees with fairness, dignity and respect and to quickly communicating openly and honestly with each person about how this decision will affect him or her. Verso's departmental heads and Human Resources team will begin meeting with our employees in the very near future." Overhead Expense Reduction Project Verso has established a goal to reduce its overhead expenses by at least 10 percent compared to 2016. This objective is predicated on the belief that there are ways to reduce the cost of delivering the services that support Verso's business while preserving or even improving the quality of such services. Verso intends to approach the overhead expense reduction project openly, objectively and with the singular, overarching goal of obtaining the best possible results for the company as a whole. Since Verso completed its reorganization in July, management has been reviewing, benchmarking and analyzing the existing framework for the delivery of support services and has begun identifying ways that overhead expenses could be reduced. Verso will leverage both internal and external resources to develop a comprehensive approach to making its support services more efficient and cost-effective. Verso expects to implement the changes necessary to achieve the overhead expense savings in 2017 and to realize such savings over the course of 2017 and 2018. "Given the significant headwinds facing our industry, Verso simply cannot afford to stand still when it comes to driving cost out of our business," said Allen J. Campbell, Verso's Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. "We must constantly renew our focus on and commitment to efficiency and cost-effectiveness, whether at the mills, in the field or at corporate. This overhead expense reduction project is both a challenge and a necessity if we are to ensure Verso's long-term profitability and viability. Verso is the leading North American producer of printing and specialty papers and pulp. For more information, please visit versoco.com SOURCE: Verso Corporation
Alibaba's Singles' Day smashes world records once again, but overall growth is slower this year. (Photo : Getty Images)
Alibaba saw a tamer Singles' Day festival this year as customers sought for bigger discounts and growth slowed down.
The Jack Ma-led company posted a record 120.7 billion yuan in sales but overall growth was significantly slower at 32 percent, with the decline blamed on cautious shoppers.
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Last year's growth saw a 60 percent increase, according to Reuters.
China's Singles' Day, which started out as a festival for young and unattached Chinese people, is now the world's biggest shopping event, even outstripping the combined sales of Cyber Monday and Black Friday in the U.S.
With sealed deals worth millions, it is also seen as the "barometer for the e-commerce industry and consumer economy in China as a whole," wrote Reuters.
Alibaba is responsible for transforming this event into what it is today when it launched its own version of the holiday in 2009. Since then, Singles' Day has transformed to become a gauge of China's very own retail industry.
This year's festival, however, was under more pressure as it tried to repeat its previous feats in the face of decreasing number of Internet users in China, among other hurdles.
"The very dynamics that helped Alibaba engineer the Hallmark-like holiday out of thin air have turned against it," wrote the New York Times.
"Growth in new Internet users is slowing in China, as is growth in the number of Chinese people and companies opening stores on Alibaba's sales platforms. More important, growth in the value of the goods sold on the company's platforms is decelerating."
Alibaba's accounting practices were also being questioned by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, clouding the company's official sales figures with doubts.
Alibaba's metrics can also be "confusing" as the company adopts a statistic called gross merchandise value, which "measures the monetary worth of transactions that flow through its services," wrote the NYT.
"Gross merchandise value is also not defined under accounting standards, and critics have grown increasingly skeptical of the numbers. For example, it does not include returns, which for Singles' Day can be as high as 30 percent of sales," the NYT reported.
The night after the election, November 9, made a huge impact on the Suicide Prevention Hotlines, as they received tons of calls like never before. John Draper, the director of this organization, said that the calls skyrocketed between 1 and 2 in the morning that it reached up to 660 calls during those hours alone.
In an article published by CNN, calls were already high that night, but it even went higher after the election was over and results started to come out. Draper said that he had not seen anything like this before in his 25 years of working in the Suicide Prevention and Crisis Intervention department, especially when it is linked to an election. It has been a while since he has seen calls go up like this. He remembered the calls went high like this was during the 9/11 attack in New York. But even then, he said that it is still nothing compared to this post-election event.
Back in 2012 when Robin Williams committed suicide due to depression, calls also went up, and that was the last time the national hotline experienced such surge in their phone calls. The hotline was established since 2005, and it has helped a lot of people since then who are undergoing such terrible times in their lives.
The New Indian Express also reported this shocking turnout on events when the national hotline for suicide prevention received a lot of calls in crazy amount. Dr. Bindu Shanmugham, a psychiatrist at the Veteran Administration Healthcare System in California, explained that most people who called directly express their fears and frustrations on the recent election. Apparently, there are a lot of those who were left disappointed after Donald Trump won the office.
Do you think there is something that citizens should be worried about now that Trump is the U.S. president? What are your thoughts on this?
After a declared Donald Trump victory in the 2016 U.S. Elections, many students are apparently struggling to cope with post-election outcomes. Reports of anxiety, stress and absences are supposedly increasing among students. So, what have schools across America been doing to help the kids?
Protests, walkouts, bullying, intimidation and harassment are just some of the scenarios students are experiencing post-election. People have expressed being scared of a Donald Trump victory because there are certain individuals who could use this as a justification for mistreating others due to what transpired in the election.
Kavitha Cardoza, an education correspondent, believes that teachers are the "oasis of calm for the children" in these stressful times and regardless of anyone's political leanings, according to PBS. She cited that teachers have already been dealing with the stressful emotions during the campaign season as some kids absorb their parents' election anxiety.
Educator Mariana Richards confirmed in the same news report that they have sent letters to parents detailing links for support. In other words, their school is making it a point to work with the students' families to help them cope with post-election outcomes. She also notes that some families really just want to move forward and put these all behind them.
At Boston, public schools are going to facilitate counseling for its students as well as the teachers in the coming days. Superintended Tommy Chang announced the service via an open letter posted on the Boston Public School official site.
@BostonSchools Students, we you. You are intelligent & beautiful. We are here for you today & always. Please share your feelings today. Tommy Chang (@SuptChang) November 9, 2016
Superintendent Bert L'Homme of Durham Public Schools posted a message on behalf of his school community on its Facebook page about guidance counseling as well. Many of its students are from multicultural families, ABC 11 reports.
Group meetings have been arranged among concerned students in several Tennessee schools, especially among multicultural students and staff. Colleges like Stanford, Columbia and USC have also extended open forums and meetings with affected individuals. This initiative has the consent of the school heads, according to the New York Times.
American schools are being proactive in their response to post-election outcomes among students. Learn more about what other schools are doing, which involve therapy with dogs, arts and crafts activities and other ingenious ways of coping with stress in the video below.
"Madam Secretary" Season 3 Episode 7 is expected to shift focus on the comeback of a familiar character, Will, Elizabeth's brother. The next episode is suggested to see Will struggle in making a decision about his family and career. Elizabeth, on the other hand, will have to deal with the son of Venezuela's late president who apparently plans to take over the country.
"Madam Secretary" Season 3 Episode 7 is said to follow Elizabeth as she heads to Venezuela to save its people from the imminent reign of the president's son. Unfortunately, an earthquake hit the country that killed the president along with the rest of his immediate successors. The president's son was then quick to grab the opportunity to rule.
"Madam Secretary" Season 3 Episode 7 is also suggested to see how Elizabeth can free an international aid team held captives by the reigning Venezuelan president. This is not the only concern that Venezuela has to face as people affected by the earthquake also need help. Because of this, Will would want to go with Elizabeth to assist in the relief efforts.
However, Will has a wife who also needs him to stay and a marriage to fix, Cartermatt reported. He is expected to be torn between settling down and take the job at Walter Reed Medical Center or following his calling and head to Venezuela to help. It remains to be seen whether Elizabeth could help his brother make the best decision to save his marriage on "Madam Secretary" Season 3 Episode 7.
Meanwhile, "Madam Secretary" Season 3 Episode 6 saw Dmitri's return as reported by Parent Herald. Dmitri's comeback was only a side story , however. The main focus in the previous episode was on the Saudi Arabian terrorist bombing which was initially covered up by the Saudi Government.
Elizabeth was enraged that the Saudi president did not prefer to surrender his cousin who was the person behind the bombing in Illinois on "Madam Secretary" Season 3 Episode 6. The terrorist attack killed a lot of civilians, including the daughter of a woman who asked Elizabeth for an update on what the government is doing to give the victims justice. Elizabeth brought the woman to a summit where the woman confronted the Saudi Arabia president and fortunately, the terrorist was arrested after.
"Madam Secretary" Season 3 is airing every Sunday night on CBS. In the meantime, let us know what you think of the previous episode of "Madam Secretary" Season 3 in our comments section. You can also check the promo of the next episode below.
The number of sumo babies is becoming alarming and its increase is reportedly blamed to parents' lack of education about infant weaning. Despite recommendations of healthcare experts to maintain milk as an infant's primary nutrition until the baby is one year old, many parents are weaning children as early as below the recommended six months.
Government of United Kingdom is seeking to correct misinformation among parents, particularly mothers, when it comes to pregnancy nutrition and infant weaning. According to Daily Mail, the surge of sumo babies, or babies weighing over 9 lbs upon birth, can be attributed to "fat mothers" and this is even aggravated as parents replace milk with pureed junk food.
Professor David Haslam of National Obesity Forum said that the rate of "mothers who are fat having fat babies" is now on an "epidemic" scale. Instead of addressing the issues regarding overweight babies, the institution has decided to focus on the mothers in the community, especially those who are misinformed early on.
Introduction of solids at an early age is said to be one of the top causes of obesity among infant before they reach their first birthday. Moreover, another plausible cause is that some mothers go back to work immediately and wean off breastfeeding.
According to World Health Organization, babies should be exclusively breastfed until six months--this means an infant is not allowed to be fed with solid foods, vitamins and not even water. As the baby reaches the sixth month, infants are recommended to be given fresh, indigenous foods and not processed foods. Machine-produced jarred baby foods, no matter how a manufacturer says that it doesn't contain chemicals nor preservatives, are strictly not recommended as they are considered baby junk foods.
Aside from obesity, health risks of early infant weaning include type 1 diabetes, iron-deficiency anemia, Celiac disease, among others. Furthermore, Kelly Mom notes that delaying solids--for at least 6-8 months--give more benefits for both the mother and baby.
If an infant is delayed from solids until the recommended age, the protection against illnesses is increased, especially if an infant is breastfed. During the recommended age, an infant's digestive system is already matured.
At what age did you let your baby start weaning? Let us know by commenting below!
A 14-year-old boy from Suffolk County found a baby girl right outside their house's doorstep on November 8 around 9 pm. The baby was inside a Nike shoebox.
In an article published by The New York Post, Franklin Santos Ulloa, 14, was watching TV when he heard someone crying by their back door. He didn't mind it at first, but after ten minutes, he noticed that the crying seems not to cease. Their neighbor thought it was just a cat making a noise. The boy then opened their back door and found a healthy looking baby girl inside a shoebox. It seems like she was well taken care of before her mother finally decided just to give her up.
The baby was wrapped in a blanket with a sweater and a pink hat that is knitted. There was even a bottle of milk right next to her. The baby was just crying the whole time as if she knows she is being abandoned. Ulloa then called his neighbor to tell them what he found.
His friend, 37-year-old Victor Romero, answered Ulloa and took a look at the baby downstairs. He called his wife, and they decided to call 911 to report what they saw. Romero thought of still finding the person who left the baby by flashing lights in the area, but he found no one there.
The baby was rushed to the hospital nearby, and the doctors declared that she is indeed a healthy one. They weren't given to the people who found her but was rather placed under the custody of Suffolk County Child Protective Services and said that they will still be looking for the child's biological parents.
KSAT San Antonio also got a hold of this story confirming the age of the infant, who is only six months old. There must be a good reason why her parents just abandoned her like that.
These are not the first time that a baby was found in a shoebox somewhere. Watch the video below for a story just like this.
Last week Patently Apple posted a report titled "Chinese Cyber Security Law goes into Effect in June 2017 that may Require Apple to surrender iOS Source Code." The report noted that "China has green-lit a sweeping and controversial law that may grant Beijing unprecedented access to foreign companies' technology and hamstring their operations in the world's second-largest economy." So unilaterally China appears to be threatening U.S. tech companies by such new legislation. With President Elect Trump wanting to push back against China's monetary manipulation and unfair trade practices, a Chinese state publication sent a message out to President-Elect Trump that they have the cards to hurt the U.S. in any trade war.
The fear mongering rhetoric has already kicked into high gear this morning in China as a State-backed newspaper decided to do a little saber rattling of their own towards President Elect-Trump. CNBC reports that the publication has clearly stated that "Apple iPhones and other U.S. goods could suffer sales hits in China if president-elect Donald Trump goes through with his 'naive' plan of slapping a large import tariff on Chinese products." So it appears that China will use Apple as a bargaining chip in any negotiations with Trump.
During his election campaign this year, Trump spoke of a 45 percent import tariff on all Chinese goods while failing to outline how it would work. Should any such policy come into effect, China will take a "tit-for-tat approach", according to an opinion piece in the Global Times, a newspaper backed by the Communist party.
"A batch of Boeing orders will be replaced by Airbus. U.S. auto and iPhone sales in China will suffer a setback, and U.S. soybean and maize imports will be halted. China can also limit the number of Chinese students studying in the U.S.," the Global Times article read.
But the Chinese newspaper was not convinced Trump would go through with his suggestion, calling it "merely campaign rhetoric" and questioning its legal validity. U.S. law dictates that presidents can only impose tariffs of no more than 15 percent for a maximum of 150 days on all imports,
The report further noted that "If Trump imposes a 45 percent tariff on Chinese imports, China-U.S. trade will be paralyzed," the Global Times said.
Lastly the CNBC report stated that "The opinion piece said Trump was a 'shrewd businessman' and would not be naive, but, if he was serious with the policy, it would affect a number of U.S. industries."
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The MacBook Pro reviews are coming in fast and furious and most generally like the new MacBook Pro, some not, and the new Touch Bar gets mixed reviews. Beyond the reviews, Phil Schiller or Phil the Philosopher is back on his stump preaching the Gospel of Apple about how touch displays are a temptation of the devil. It reminds me of the line in the movie Poltergeist, just don't look into the light! I've always liked Phil Schiller and was glad that Steve Jobs kept him on board as he cleaned house back in 1997. But at times I'd prefer if Phil just focused on what Apple does best without having to preach to me that what I may like is wrong. Apple sometimes reminds me of Hillary Clinton and the Democrats saying that if I'm not for open borders and allowing all illegals to flood into the country and stay, then I must be a racist xenophobe or at best a deplorable. It's what turned off many independents. She should have stayed on message of why to vote for her rather then telling me that I represented the dark side if I happened to disagree with her point of view. Sometimes Apple gets a little too preachy. Many Apple pros are still seething that the new MacBook Pro limits ports and forces them to use dongles. And Apple just decided they no longer wanted to support an SD Slot. Apple's apostles tell us that an SD slot is a tool of the devil and if we wanted it, then we'd surely turn into pillars of salt. So repent and go there no more.
A Few Quick Review Flashes on the Touch Bar
In Mossberg's review he notes that "I have reservations, and you should too. Many pro users are already vocally complaining about issues particular to them. But, even for mainstream Mac users, there are questions about price, ports, the Touch Bar feature, the keyboard and surprisingly, for a Mac battery life. Mossberg really slams Apple on battery life. On the Touch Bar, Mossberg notes that "I don't think the Touch Bar is a gimmick, but I don't think it changes much, at least yet, for everyday Mac users. The Touch Bar has potential, but it's not magic." Mossberg finally says that "if you're a Mac devotee ready to move past the Air not back to a lower-powered MacBook this is what Apple is offering. Take it or leave it." It's certainly a mixed review that you could fully check out here.
The Wall Street Journal's review by Joanna Stern starts off in your face: "We've been conditioned: Every new Apple Product is the best Apple Product ever until, of course, the next best Apple Product ever. The exception? The new MacBook Pro laptops.
Even if you have enough spare cash to buy a Tesla for your kitten, it isn't abundantly clear that you should choose one of the new $1,500-and-up models over their predecessors. The new models even defy our expectations on power and pricing. Not only are they missing the newest Intel chipset, they don't even fit in the standard Apple-nomics model where hot new products slot in at last year's pricing.
On the Touch Bar Stern noted that "I can accomplish many shortcuts faster with the keyboard or trackpad. (Example: Cmd-B bolds words quicker than I can lift a finger to hit the Touch Bar's little "B.") Plus, you always have to look up since the controls keep changing and your sense of touch doesn't help at all."
The Bottom Line for Stern is one not to offend. Stern notes "So how do you decide? Do you invest in the presentthe "old" MacBook Pro with performance, good-enough portability, a keyboard to cherish and lots of ports? Or do you invest in the futurea beautiful, highly portable machine with new tricks? Or maybe you do what I'm doing: Stare down at your three-year-old laptop and wonder if you can tough it out another year or two while this sorts itself out." Click here For more on the WSJ review.
Engadget's review by Dana Wollman was brutally honest. Dana notes that "I'm one of many Mac owners out there who has been waiting for Apple to upgrade the MacBook Pro line. Now that it finally has, I find the new laptop isn't quite what I wanted.
For me, this is both a step forward and a step backward. I'm sure Apple disagrees, and not just because its job is to sell lots of computers. Apple seems to earnestly believe it knows how people should be getting work done -- so much so that it has the chutzpah to ask loyal customers to unlearn old habits. Get used to using dongles to attach your existing accessories. Say goodbye to your memory card slot, creatives. Resign yourself to adjusting the brightness or volume with taps and swipes, instead of a simple button press. Accept the risk that your existing Thunderbolt 3 peripherals might not work.
On the Touch Bar, Wollman notes that "What's annoying about this whole setup is that either way, some of the most important system controls are now buried in Touch Bar menus. Want to lower the volume? You can either hit the volume icon and hit the slider, or hit the arrow key and tap the volume up or down key. That's less efficient than just pressing a dedicated volume button in the function row. It's inconvenient enough that I eventually started using my mouse to do things like pause Spotify or raise the volume on a track. Apple made me change my way of doing things, and not necessarily for the better. That pisses me off."
Although Wollman complains, she knows that die-hard Apple will flock to it and it gives it a decent 8 out of 10 score.
On the Touch Bar, the review by The Verge was mixed. "I've been using the new MacBook Pro with Touch Bar for more than a week now, and I have mixed feelings about what it brings to the MacBook experience. In some cases, the Touch Bar's usefulness is obvious and immediate. But in many others, it's overly complicated or just plain unnecessary. It's an addition that very much can improve every MacBook but it's going to take some time to get there, if it ever does."
Phil the Philosopher
Back in 2012 Samsung's Phablet had been out for about a year and Apple's VP of Worldwide Marketing Phil Schiller wanted to downplay what many consumers were running to, the Phablet. So Schiller put on his preacher's robe and went into Phil the Philosopher mode. Patently Apple's report at the time noted that "In Describing the new iPhone, Phil Schiller stated that "It is really easy to make a new product that's bigger. Everyone does that. The challenge is to make it better and smaller."
Schiller went on to make an obvious point that Samsung forgot: "What is the design center for a Phone? It's this: it's your hand. A phone should feel great in your hand and more importantly it should be easy to use with a magical device we all carry called the horizontally opposed thumb. It does most of the hard work for us. So when you carry your phone it should feel beautiful in your hand."
As one who liked the phablet idea right out of the gate, I found it funny to listen to Phil having to defend Apple's position. More more importantly, Phil basically tried to convey the message that we just didn't get it, and if we happened to like a phablet, then surely we had lost our way.
According to Phil, my thumb had to be satisfied and that could only happen on a tiny iPhone display. Keep in mind that this isn't me conveniently looking back with 20/20 hindsight. I reported on this back in 2013 after Apple had missed delivering a phablet for a second year in a row in a report titled "Apple Passing on a larger iPhone Display still a Head Scratcher."
Well, Apple is back at it again and Phil the Philosopher is there to just lay down the law and to set us all straight. When it came to dropping ports and the SD slot that Pro users loved, Phil was there to slap them on that back and make it very clear that Apple cares "about what they love and what they are worried about. And it's our job to help people through these changes." Yes, true, at a cost and inconvenience of having multiple dongs on our desks like our cover graphic illustrates. That's helping us through the changes? Ka-ching for Apple.
It's not what Apple fans or pros wanted from a new MacBook Pro, but hey, Phil will help us through these changes because we're all just morons who just don't get it. We just don't see the light of genius in changing every port so that they look alike and are more importantly, nice and neat in a row! You know, it's just so condescending and yet I'm sure it's done with a smile. Thanks Phil.
Of course the biggest in our face position that Apple won't budge on is giving us a MacBook or iMac with a touch display. That argument should be dead by now but the tech community of writers never let it go. It's obvious that these writers and Apple fans would still like to see that come to be. But Apple continues to say that god handed them down the law on stone tablets like Moses. Phil, it's doable because Windows 10 proved it's doable so it just comes down to ideology and not because it's absurd as you claim it to be.
You know, it reminds me of people who have to eat each thing on their plate in a particular order never mixing a damn thing. Their brain isn't wired to enjoy peas and potatoes together in one scoop. It just isn't the order of things in their universe.
In a new report today Phil told Backchannel that "We think of the whole platform. If we were to do Multi-Touch on the screen of the notebook, that wouldn't be enough then the desktop wouldn't work that way." And touch on the desktop, he says, would be a disaster. Can you imagine a 27-inch iMac where you have to reach over the air to try to touch and do things? That becomes absurd."
How many times have I been at my kitchen table in the evening and just leaned over to touch the Safari or iTunes icon on my iMac like I do on my iPad to launch an app, just to laugh at what I was doing because my iMac was of course just too stupid to do that. What was I thinking, that we could have it both ways like on Windows devices?
Yet at the end of the day, most Apple fans will appreciate Apple's MacBook Pro with its new Touch Bar. On the other hand, many reviewers and fans couldn't care less about the Touch Bar, and some like me would still prefer a hybrid notebook-tablet like the invention that Apple's engineers came up with; their intelligent engineers that had their idea stolen from them by Microsoft's Surface Book. But when I get a Surface Book someday in the future, I'll always think of those Apple engineers and say thanks guys, too bad Apple didn't listen to you because it was a great idea.
Roundup of More In-Depth MacBook Pro Reviews
Philosophy aside, if you're trying to decide on whether to pass or buy that shiny new MacBook Pro for Christmas and need a nudge either way, below are a few more interesting and more in-depth reviews that might help you decide:
Ars Technica: Touch Bar MacBook Pros give an expensive glimpse at the Mac's future
USA Today: MacBook Pro review: Touch Bar comes at high cost
AppleInsider: Review: Apple's late-2016 15" MacBook Pro with Touch Bar
Gizmodo: The MacBook Pro's Touch Bar Is a Gimmick That's Not Worth the Money (Yet)
Mashable: Apple's MacBook Pro with Touch Bar is worth the wait
Macworld: MacBook Pro with Touch Bar review: The best bits of iOS in a really great Mac --- They love the new Touch Bar as noted below in their overview video.
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Russian Energy Firm Chiefs To Visit Iran For Talks On Possible Oil Contracts
11/14/16
Source: RFE/RL
Iran's deputy minister of petroleum for international affairs and commerce says a delegation of Russian oil and gas companies will visit the country this week for talks about possible oil contracts.
Amir-Hossein Zamanina said on November 13 that the Russian delegation will consist of directors of Russia's Gazprom, Tatneft, LUKoil, and Zarubezhneft.
The Iranian official noted that several memoranda of understanding already have been signed by the Iranian government and the Russian firms.
Those include documents signed by Zarubezhneft and Tatneft on studying studying sustainable Westfield and Abanfield as well as the Dehloran oilfield.
The lifting of international sanctions against Iran in January has opened up Iran's energy sector to potential investment by international firms.
But oil sector contracts have been at the center of a struggle within Iran between President Hassan Rohani and powerful hard-line clerics.
Zamanina did specify when the visit by the Russian energy company executives would begin nor how long it would last.
Based on reporting by SHANA, IRNA, TASS, Reuters, and Wall Street Journal
Copyright (c) 2016 RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. www.rferl.org
A female aerobatic pilot of the Chinese air force has been confirmed dead as the result of a plane crash on Saturday.
The PLA's Air Force confirmed via its official Weibo account that the accident took place during routine training.
Air Force spokesman Shen Jinke expressed regret over the death of the pilot, captain Yu Xu of the Bayi Aerobatic Performance Team, vowing that the FLA's Air Force will continue in its duties and be stringent in training.
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Media reports said pilot Yu Xu was killed in a failed parachute jump when her plane crashed somewhere in Yutian County near north China's city of Tangshan.
She is the first of four female pilots in China capable of flying the country's third-generation J-10 jet fighter.
She piloted a training plane in the military parade marking the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic in 2009. Her last public appearance was in the just-concluded Zhuhai Air Show.
It's reported Saturday's accident involved two planes of the Bayi Aerobatic Performance Team of PLA's Air Force.
Yu's copilot was injured and is being treated in hospital.
An investigation is underway.
Credit: CRIEnglish.com
Iran, China sign agreement to boost defense-military cooperation
11/14/16
Source: Press TV (photos by Islamic Republic News Agency)
Iran and China have signed an agreement to boost defense-military cooperation and fight terrorism. The agreement was inked by Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Hossein Dehqan and his Chinese counterpart General Chang Wanquan in Tehran on Monday at the end of an earlier meeting between the two sides.
Iranian and Chinese Defense Ministers signing the agreement:
Brigadier General Hossein Dehqan (R) and General Chang Wanquan
"The development of [Iran's] long-term defense-military relations and cooperation with China is among the top priorities of the Islamic Republic of Iran's defense diplomacy," Dehqan said in the meeting.
Dehghan added that the two countries' defense-military cooperation would guarantee regional and international peace and security.
He emphasized that all countries in Asia and the Oceania shoulder the responsibility to maintain peace and stability.
"Today, foreign meddling and lack of respect for the national sovereignty of countries have turned the Middle East region into a hotbed of crisis and insecurity in the world and led to [the emergence of] terrorism and its spread throughout the world," Dehqan said.
He added that the US and some regional countries are supporting terrorism and the scourge is overflowing into Europe, Central Asia and the Caucasus as well as other regions.
"Today, the threat of Daesh and terrorism has turned into an important regional and international challenge," the Iranian defense minister said.
He called for a genuine and efficient campaign against terrorism by all countries which are exposed to the threat of the malicious phenomenon.
"The Islamic Republic of Iran, with the great experience that it has acquired over the recent years in the anti-terror campaign, expresses its readiness to make a collective move in order to fight this threat and believes that China can play a very important role in this regard," Dehqan said.
For his part, the Chinese defense minister said Iran has an important position in the region in political, economic, security, military and cultural fields.
He added that the two countries have common interests in many regional and global issues which have prepared the ground for the expansion of defense-military cooperation.
Heading a high-ranking delegation, Chang arrived in Tehran on Sunday for an official three-day visit at the invitation of his Iranian counterpart.
He plans to hold talks with senior Iranian officials about Tehran-Beijing cooperation and the latest regional and international developments.
Dehqan had traveled to China in May 2014 to negotiate mutual visits and personnel training cooperation between the two countries.
Back in April 2015, the Iranian and Chinese defense ministers, who were in the Russian capital to attend the fourth Moscow International Security Conference, held a meeting and discussed Tehran-Beijing relations as well as the issue of the Daesh Takfiri terrorists and the extent of their activities in East Asia.
Kofax Power PDF review TechRadar Pro
Kofax has a handful of multi-platform apps to help you alter and annotate PDFs. Standard is likely the one best suited for most needs, and is the software well be exploring in this review.
Since we last reviewed 8x8 X Series, the company has prettied up the product name to 8x8 eXperience Communications as a Service (XCaaS), but it remains the same solid business voice-over-IP (VoIP) contender. As with previous releases, 8x8 has continued to enhance its offering with iterative improvements. New features this time mainly focus on making communication tasks easier and better integrated with services like Microsoft Teams.
8x8 XCaaS Pricing and Plans
Pricing for the base 8x8 XCaaS Express service starts at $15 per user per month, the same as the X1 tier from our previous review. This level includes unlimited voice calling, video, and messaging, plus support for multi-site and multi-level auto-attendant. This feature list makes 8x8 Express a good value for an entry-level service tier.
The next level up is the X2 tier, the starting price for which has been lowered by a dollar to $24 per user per month. This tier adds unlimited voice calling to 14 countries, video and audio conferencing plus chat, and a respectable list of small business and enterprise integrations.
The X4 service costs $44 per user per month ups international calling to 48 countries provides access to the new Frontdesk call-reception feature (more on that below), advanced call handling, call quality reporting, analytics, and call-center features including barge, monitor, and whisper.
In general, 8x8 is one of the more affordable offerings in our current roundup, with pricing comparable to Dialpad.
Client User Experience
As in our earlier reviews, one of 8x8's greatest strengths is the overall usability of the product's interface, which has been consistently high for users and admins alike. At the same time, the interface is still missing some productivity features found in other products like Dialpad and our Editors' Choice winners RingCentral MVP and Intermedia Unite. You can get similar features if you're a Microsoft Teams user, but they don't exist in the product itself.
The 8x8 XCaaS desktop client is called 8x8 Work for Desktop, and installers are available for both Windows and macOS. New for this release, users can also get the same user experience from a web browser via the 8x8 Work for Web product, which is available for all service tiers at no additional charge. All functionality found in the desktop client, including video meetings, is available using the browser-based version.
Like other products in this roundup, 8x8's focus on meetings is readily apparent. The product supports meetings of up to 500 participants as a part of its base X2 package, which will cost you extra with Dialpad. Other features such as in-meeting polls, post-meeting summaries, breakout rooms, and virtual backgrounds bring 8x8 on par with all the popular video conferencing products. Also new is additional mobile support for screen sharing and even mobile browsers for users who haven't installed the 8x8 mobile client.
Updates to the product's basic voice features include seamless call flipping between devices, sharing of voicemails, a call quality indicator for desktop and mobile, and support for messaging on Android Auto.
Also on the mobile device front, it's now possible to initiate video meetings from mobile devices. You can configure this feature so that it's available over a phone's mobile data plan or restrict it to Wi-Fi only. We were able to initiate a meeting from the phone and connect both from the desktop client and the web browser interface. We also tried out the call-flip feature, which works a little differently than some of the other products we tested. With 8x8, you initiate the flip from the device you wish to move to by dialing *88 and hitting Send.
Account Administration
All basic administration tasks happen through an admin web portal, which boasts a UI that does a great job of easing administration tasks. The layout and functionality haven't changed much at all since our last review. Tasks are still grouped under the headings of Setup, Phone System, and Work Groups.
Some functions have been moved around, such as designating system administrators. This now happens under the Roles & Permissions section. A Virtual Assistant is available for all administrative functions to help guide you through unfamiliar processes.
However, while we remain impressed with 8x8's user experience overall, some longstandingif minorannoyances persist. For example, you'll still need to use the bulk edit to change an individual's assigned site.
Frontdesk Reception Handling
One of the more significant additions to this year's release is the new Frontdesk feature, which offers extra functionality to companies who want to designate an extension as their phone receptionist. It's designed to make it easier to designate a user to receive and greet all incoming calls and route them to the appropriate extensions. One downside is that you'll need at least an X4 license to take advantage of this new feature.
We went through the process of configuring a Receptionist role and found it to be straightforward. You must either create a new user or designate an existing user as a Receptionist in the Users section of the Administration page. Once that's done, the new Receptionist will have additional Frontdesk features available in the desktop client application to make finding employees from the company directory and transferring calls a little easier.
Integrations and Analytics
Like other players in our current roundup, 8x8 offers a variety of integrations with third-party software that your organization might already be using. For example, in addition to basic password authentication, it also integrates with corporate identity management systems and provides a SCIM 2.0 compliant interface for exchanging credentials. Default SCIM support is available for Microsoft Azure Active Directory and Okta.
Access to analytics must be enabled on a user-by-user basis. Once that's done, analytics will show up as an option from the single sign-on (SSO) page. The web-based interface provides access to a wide range of statistics about calls and some information about call quality. You can't modify any of the reports, but you can filter by date and view the information by device or user.
8x8 also provides APIs that developers can use to access SMS, video, and analytics. For example, using the SMS API it's possible to create a mobile verification text message for use by any application. The platform also supports the open-source Jitsi project for building secure video conferencing applications. And then there's Sameroom, an integration for connecting with team messaging applications like Slack and Telegram.
A Solid Choice for SMBs
We continue to see 8x8 XCaaS as a reliable option for small businesses, with a strong and growing menu of features. The new Frontdesk component is a welcome addition for companies that want to emulate a traditional receptionist's desk. What's more, 8x8's entry-level pricing will be attractive to new customers, and even its higher pricing tiers are competitive. It's still missing some of the advanced features of our Editors' Choice category leaders. Still, its easy-to-navigate UI should make it attractive to businesses that don't want or need to dedicate much time to configuring their phone systems.
8x8 eXperience Communications as a Service 4.0 (Opens in a new window) Check Price (Opens in a new window) Pros Lots of features in the base offering, including video conferencing
Improved mobile video from earlier versions
Easy setup for mobile and desktop clients
New Frontdesk feature for receptionists View More Cons Missing productivity features found in other products
Some user settings only configurable using bulk edit
Analytics reports aren't configurable The Bottom Line 8x8 X Series remains a solid option for businesses that want a rich menu of features but don't want to break the bank. What's more, It offers an easy-to-use UI that users and admins will both appreciate.
With the advent of Windows 10, Microsoft has slowly ramped up the competitiveness of Windows built-in software such as browsers (Microsoft Edge), app and game gateways (the Windows Store and Play Anywhere), and security products (Windows Defender). This is leading at least some company leaders to worry that Microsoft is trying to push out third-party software when Microsoft-made solutions are readily available.
The latest Microsoft competitor to take a stand is Eugene Kaspersky, founder of security company Kaspersky Labs. Recently, Kaspersky announced in a blog post that his company was filing complaints of anticompetitive behavior by Microsoft in various countries (including the EU and Russia). Its not clear if Kaspersky Labs is complaining to officials in the United States.
At issue for Kaspersky is Microsofts treatment of third-party antivirus solutions that compete with Windows Defendera free security product included with Windows 10. Microsoft has offered free security software for years. Theres the Windows Security Essentials download for Windows 7, and versions of Defender for Windows 8/8.1 and Windows 10.
Kasperskys beef isnt really with the existence of Defender. Rather, its with how Defender is favored to the detriment of competing, paid products.
The story behind the story: While Kaspersky focuses on security products in his blog post. The context of his argument is that Microsoft is seizing niche markets in order to push out independent developers. Theres little doubt Microsoft is promoting its own software inside Windows 10, and aggressively so. We recently reported on Microsofts advertisements for Edge on the taskbar even when another browser is designated as the default program. There have also been annoyances with major updates, such as Windows 10 resetting user preferences to Microsoft defaults.
Defenders deadline
Topping Kasperskys list of complaints is how Microsoft treated third-party vendors when Windows 10 first rolled out. Kaspersky says developers were only given one week to comply with Windows 10s new requirements, a timeline that proved impossible to hit.
As a result of not being ready in time, Windows 10 would deem noncompliant security programs incompatible and deactivate them. The operating system would then activate Defender in place of the preferred third-party software the user had installed.
To remedy this problem, Kaspersky suggests that Microsoft should provide new versions of Windows to developers in good time so they can bring their programs into compliance. Thats an odd request to make in the age of the Windows Insider Program, which makes early builds of Windows 10 readily available to the public. That said, even with the Insider program it can be difficult to figure out which late-stage Insider build will be the official version rolling out to users during a major update.
Kaspersky also wants Windows 10 to explicitly inform the user of the presence of incompatible software before upgrading, and then recommend to install a compatible version of said software after the upgrade. The first part of that demand is not unheard of. In 2012, Microsofts Windows 8 upgrade utility informed users of incompatible programs before continuing with the upgrade.
Warnings and favoritism
Windows 10s warning for Windows Defender.
Kaspersky also took issue with Microsofts warning window for Windows Defender. When another AV product is installed, Windows 10 can display the warning you see here that says Defender is turned off.
If you press that Turn On button seen above, it automatically turns on Defender and disables the third-party AV program. Kaspersky wasnt clear about when this warning window appears. When I installed Kaspersky Anti-Virus on Monday the warning window did not appear until I explicitly opened it.
Kaspersky argues that Windows 10s treatment of third-party AV programs can also have some unintended consequences for the user. Lets say, for example, that a user accidentally installs a trial period antivirus program (its easy to do this with bundleware) while also running, say, AVG Antivirus. The new trial software disables AVG, but when the trial period ends for the new software both third-party programs are deactivated, and Defender is turned on. In that situation, Kaspersky believes Windows 10 should default back to AVG instead of Defender since AVG was the more recently used security program.
Kaspersky also wants Windows 10 to explicitly ask the user before enabling Windows Defender. Thats probably a no-go since Microsoft aims to balance user convenience and security with ease of use in Windows 10. Automatically enabling Windows Defender in the absence of another security program does all of that.
A Windows 10 Action Center security warning.
Yet Microsoft could make its Action Center notifications more explicit. When I uninstalled Kaspersky AV on Monday, Windows 10 notified me that my PC was not protected. The OS then advised me to click on the notification seen here to activate Windows Defender. Seconds later Windows Defender was activated with no action taken on my part.
Kaspersky isnt the only one taking issue with Microsofts current tactics. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has accused Microsoft on several occasions of killing the PC as an open platformarguments that weve disagreed with yet havent entirely discounted.
Riverside County Sheriffs deputies utilized a helicopter Sunday afternoon, Nov. 13, to arrest a man suspected of stealing a car.
Deputies located a car that had been reported stolen around 2:45 p.m. in the 21600 block of Zelma Drive in the Good Hope community of Riverside County, said Sheriffs Department spokesman Deputy Armando Munoz. The suspected thief was nowhere to be found.
Deputies searched the area, and with the help of a helicopter crew, found the suspect nearby. He was subsequently arrested, Munoz said.
Riverside has new long-term contracts with nearly all city workers following the approval of a deal with its largest union.
The City Council on Tuesday signed off on a contract with the Service Employees International Union Local 721, which represents most workers who arent in public safety or the city utility.
Under the four-year deal, the service unions roughly 900 members join the police and firefighters unions in using a new method to calculate raises that goes by the health of city finances. Also, by 2020 most city employees will be paying nearly all of their share of pension contributions, which in the past were fully paid by the city.
Union members were very happy. This is a very good contract, SEIU Local 721 Inland region director Esmie Grubbs said.
Because it includes new provisions to retain and promote workers, workers will be less inclined to take skills learned in Riverside to other cities, she said.
Starting in 2018, annual raises will never be less than 2 percent or more than 6 percent.
The amount will vary by year and will be based on whether main city revenue sources, including sales and property taxes, see an increase.
City Manager John Russo said basing employee raises on how city revenues perform makes more sense than using a guess of what the citys revenues are going to be and (that) may be wrong.
A key provision in the new contracts with most unions is that workers will move toward paying their share typically 7 or 8 percent of pension costs, Russo said.
Private-sector workers use their earnings to pay into Social Security and then collect when they retire, but until a few years ago Riverside was paying the full cost of its employees pensions.
Its not as if theyre getting a free ride anymore. Theyre contributing, Russo said.
In 2011, Riverside began lowering pension costs by requiring most new hires to pay their share, and the city continued to pay all pension costs for longer-serving workers.
Then some longer-tenured employees began paying a portion of their pensions, usually getting raises to help offset the cost.
The service union contract will cost the city about $2.9 million through fiscal 2018, according to a city report.
Grubbs said the union still is negotiating with the city on behalf of workers in the refuse department. Those workers have a separate bargaining unit.
Contact the writer: 951-368-9461arobinson@scng.comTwitter: @arobinson_pe
One woman was displaced after a two-story home caught fire Sunday, Nov. 13, in the El Cerrito area south of Corona, according to Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department news release.
The fire was reported just before 3 p.m. and arriving firefighters encountered heavy smoke and fire visible from the 2,000-square-foot structure with power lines down, the release stated. The fire was contained in about 35 minutes.
The fire loss was estimated at $300,000 and the cause is under investigation, according to fire spokeswoman Jody Hagemann.
The Corona Fire Department assisted. The fire was in the 19000 block of Consul Avenue, east of the 15 freeway and north of Ontario Avenue.
No injuries were reported. The American Red Cross was contacted to assist the homes resident.
South Park Season 20, episode 8 promo, synopsis, title: President-elects unfinished business in Members Only [Spoilers] (Photo : SouthPark.cc.com)
The President-elect heads to South Park for some unfinished business in the upcoming episode. Meanwhile, Troll Hunter is after Gerald and he will do anything to protect himself. The promo for "South Park" Season 20, episode to showcase President-elect coming to town.
Warning: This article contains spoilers from "South Park" Season 20 episodes. Read to know more.
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"South Park" Season 20, episode 8 official spoilers
According to the synopsis released, on "Members Only," we will see the President-elect in South Park. In the above photo, he meets P.C. Principal at South Park Elementary. Apparently, he has to attend some unfinished business.
Elsewhere, Eric Cartman and Heidi are ready to go to Mars and they head to SpaceX to be a part of the first rocket that will go to the Red Planet.
"The President-elect has some unfinished business with his hometown on an all-new episode of South Park titled "Members Only" on Wednesday, November 16 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT on Comedy Central.
Gerald tries anything to escape the Troll Hunter's revenge. Meanwhile, Cartman and Heidi make their way to SpaceX to try to get on the first rocket leaving for Mars," reads the official synopsis.
Meanwhile, the official press release also revealed that Barneys New York has teamed up with Matt Stone and Trey Parker.
"Barneys New York, the luxury specialty retailer, has collaborated with Matt Stone and Trey Parker among other celebrated artists for their 2016 holiday: Love Peace Joy Project. The visual homage to "South Park's 20th season will be unveiled on Friday, November 18 in the southern window on Madison Avenue."
"South Park" Season 20, episode 8 promo video
Note: The promo will be uploaded as soon as the network makes it available.
Update: The promo begins with Mr. Mackey informing P.C. Principal that someone wants to speak with him.
P.C. Principal shouts at him and wants to be left alone. But, it is the President-elect. He is shocked to see him in his office. Watch what happens next, here.
Share your views about the new episode in the section below. Stay tuned for more spoilers, news and update.
"South Park" Season 20 episodes air Wednesdays on Comedy Central.
Credit: YouTube/South Park Studios
A crash Monday morning, Nov. 14, involving a big-rig blocked the Redlands Boulevard off-ramp from Highway 60 West in Moreno Valley.
By about 7:30 a.m., the vehicles were moved from the roadway and the off-ramp was opened back up, according to a California Highway Patrol incident log.
A big-rig and a black pickup were involved in the crash. Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department firefighters were dispatched to the scene.
The log did not clearly say if anyone was injured in the crash.
With analysts estimating that oceangoing shippers could lose up to $10 billion worldwide this year, the industry that made globalization possible is sinking into crisis.
To survive, shippers are merging, signing swiftly assembled alliances and slashing costs.
The pain isnt felt on foreign shores alone. Los Angeles and Long Beach, home to the nations busiest port complex, are fighting for an increasingly smaller piece of a shrinking shipping market.
Those two ports support thousands of jobs in the Inland area, whose residents drive trucks, operate heavy equipment, work in warehouse and fulfillment centers and make deliveries of products from Long Beach and Los Angeles.
So far, the pain has been minimal in the Inland region, but some economists worry there could be ripple effects from troubles at the ports.
At the same time, the ports face hundreds of millions of dollars a year in infrastructure projects to stay competitive.
The industry is consolidating for survival, said Michelle Grubbs, vice president of the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association, a trade group. They are losing so much money. They have to reduce their costs.
UNCERTAIN SEAS
Recent shifts on the currently unsettled trade seascape are significant:
Profits are plunging at the largest shipping company, A.P. Moller-Maersk A/S, which announced this week a 43 percent decline in third-quarter profits. It comes as Japans biggest shipper, NYK Line, anticipates a near $2 billion loss for the first half of the year.
Just last month, Japans three biggest sea carriers confronting declining freight rates, sluggish demand and fleets with too many ships merged to create the worlds sixth-largest box carrier. Chinas largest carriers, China Ocean Shipping Co. and China Shipping Group, are in the midst of merging, too.
Federal regulators last month approved Ocean Alliance, a partnership between some of the worlds largest shipping companies Chinas Cosco Group, Hong Kongs Orient Overseas Container Line, Frances CMA CGM and Taipei-based Evergreen Marine.
A similar alliance is already in place and another one made up of some the worlds biggest sea carriers is awaiting approval.
Most of the globes goods shipped by sea will travel via one of the three such alliances, which allow shippers to share ships, trade routes and charter space.
Struggling seaborne cargo movers are seeking ways to streamline. One approach is building bigger ships that can carry more goods and reduce the number of trips.
However, such cost-cutting isnt always fool-proof: Too much capacity can drive down prices. Its a tumultuous new world for shippers. Its a very big global change, Grubbs said. I think you are going to see shifts everywhere.
PORTS IN A QUANDARY
The crisis poses a quandary for ports in Los Angeles and Long Beach.
The giant cargo hubs operate like landlords, wooing shippers to sign leases to unload goods at their massive terminals.
The ports shell out hundreds of millions of dollars to stay current and competitive, building cranes, improving wharves and otherwise maintaining an aging infrastructure.
In turn, the ports ask their tenants to bring in a minimum amount of cargo each year or pay a fee on top of the lease.
The rents also pay off bonds used to pay operating expenses and to build projects such as the Gerald Desmond Bridge.
But a marketplace in disarray could challenge this economic model.
Nearly 40 percent of the nations trade with Asia runs through the twin ports and its 13 different container terminals. But many of those terminals are subsidiaries of shipping lines, the very ones that are struggling to stay afloat.
Alliances and mergers can pose a problem for the twin hubs. The majority of their leases with terminal operators predate many of these deals.
What we dont know today, said Noel Hacegaba, chief operating officer of the Port of Long Beach, is how will the volume by these new alliances be distributed across the terminals.
For example, Hanjin Shipping Co. has a majority stake in Long Beachs Total Terminal International. The seventh-largest carrier in the world collapsed this summer, sending import-dependent Southern California into a tailspin. The rest is owned by Mediterranean Shipping Co., the worlds second-largest box carrier.
Who purchases Hanjins stake could further complicate the port scenario. MSC owns a stake in another terminal at Long Beach and is aligned with two more terminals in Los Angeles.
Its uncertain whether MSC, as it absorbs Hanjins streamlined assets, will be able to maintain the minimum shipping numbers required by their leases at each terminal.
FOLLOWING SUIT?
Jock OConnell, an international trade adviser at Beacon economics, said as alliances reconfigure, the terminals may take a similar route to shippers, consolidating their resources and cutting costs.
Of the ports long-term leases with terminal operators, more than half are up in the next 11 years.
There are signs, analysts say, there may be more terminals than are truly needed, especially as bigger ships result in fewer trips.
Los Angeles strong growth this year could mean that newly allied shippers have chosen their docks, OConnell said.
But those fortunes could change as the new order shakes out, he added.
Paul Bingham, who manages trade and logistics analysis for Economic Development Research Group in Boston, pointed to a potentially grimmer view.
Earlier this year, the Port of Oakland saw tenants of their second-largest terminal drop out of a 50-year lease.
Outer Harbor Terminal LLC, a venture between Ports America and MSC-affiliated Terminal Investment Ltd., said they were bowing out to refocus on other properties in Southern California and Washington. At the time the operator inked that lease in 2009, it promised to invest more than $600 million in the Oakland port by 2020.
Outer Harbor said it pulled out in part because unlike Southern California Oakland wasnt considered crucial to trade routes. But, he noted, the general lesson is an important one. Things are not as stable in the port environment.
Things you could count on in the past are no longer the case, he said.
That uncertainty prompted bond-ratings company Fitch to issue a report last month that raised questions about the risks U.S. ports face in the wake of shipping-industry consolidation.
It is something we are watching and we are definitely asking the ports about, said Emma Smith, director of global infrastructure and projects for the agency. What does it mean for where the boxes are going? We still dont know.
There will be certain ports, echoed Grubbs, that will be winners and losers in this.
Contact the writer: ruranga@scng.com or @racheluranga
Bulgarian Socialist Ally Rumen Radev, a Russia-friendly newcomer to politics, won Sunday's presidential election by a wide margin, exit polls showed, prompting Centre-right Prime Minister Boiko Borisov to pledge to resign.
Radev, 53, entered Bulgarian politics on a wave of discontent with the ruling center-right's progress in combating corruption, disappointment with the European Union and concerns among voters over alienating an increasingly assertive Russia.
The French far-right party led by Jean Marie Le Pin is also on the ascendancy and they are tipped to perform wonders in their countrys upcoming elections. Now, this comes at the heels of Donald Trump and there's another episode in the offing in Moldova.
Tenets of democracy
In every society, leaders do emerge at specific periods to render specific service to their country and leave a legacy which could either be seen as positive or negative, depending on who is doing the assessment and through what lens. What is therefore important is the overriding approval by the people whose lives have been positively affected by decisions of these leaders, when they were given the opportunity to serve.
The path to attaining this leadership position is also very important; this is because, there are instances where people seeking the highest office of the land, often make promises which they are either not ready to fulfill, or simply do not have the capacity to deliver. For such people, empty talk and baseless aspersions then become their sole delight on campaign platforms, while relegating to the background, the real issues bordering of the peoples welfare.
Trumping Trump
The rest of the world woke up in shock and awe as USA decided to create a NEW WORLD ORDER by granting Donald J. Trump a stunning victory that many like me find it very difficult to comprehend. Have we any choice? Majority rule simply prevailed for a Trumping Trump Pence leadership regardless of the backlash, scathing attacks, and devastating revelations.
Losing an election to a candidate who proved beyond measure to be immeasurably divisive and unpopular as Donald Trump baffles my thinking (I JUST CAN'T THINK FAR) whereas serving as an indictment on the opinion poll, pollster predictions, media hype, influential celebrity endorsement and agonized objective analysts and floating voters for years to come.
Suffice it to say, we await the permeating factors that guaranteed this shock wave and once the shock fever passes, we would surely be privy to glimpses of some rational explanation for such reality. Scholarly definitions of politics, elections, poll projection, expert analysis, mass opinion heavily defeated by the seemingly unexpected outcome.
The 8year convention
Trumps victory has further deepened the believe that incumbent parties rarely hold on to power after eight years (the case of my Ghana) in office. Political allusions point to the very fact that George H.W Bush, following Reagan, was an exception, but politics has become progressively more polarized since those years and symbolically pendulums have a habit of swinging in that regard.
Another factor which cannot be left in oblivion is the issue of a disgruntled youth (white majority) who feel immigrants and foreigners alike have taken their places for the rare socio-economic opportunities on the social stratum of the USA.
On December 7,2016, Ghanaians will be going to the polls to elect someone to steer the affairs of state for the next 4years.as we speak, the nation is awashed with campaign messages by the various presidential candidates.
Coincidentally, developments in America, election-wise, have often reflected on what happens here in Ghana, since the inception of our fourth Republican democratic dispensation. Since the era of President William Jefferson 'Bill' Clinton in 1992 when Ghana ushered in the 4th Republican democratic dispensation, no political party in either county has won a 3rd consecutive term of office.
Again, within the same time frame, anytime there is a Democratic President in the White House, there has been an NDC President in the Castle; and anytime there is a Republican President in the White House, there has been an NPP President in the Castle [the Jubilee House]. And for baseless propaganda point-scoring, top NDC government officials and their legion of praise-singing assigns, erroneously, went about equating whatever was transpiring in the US electioneering campaign to what is going on here in ghana.at a point in time, the 59year-old John Mahama was being called Obama, for reasons which virtually do not exit.
Propaganda gone-wrong
The likes of Edward Omane-Boamah, Felix Ofosu-Kwakye and Samuel Okudzeto-Ablakwa were always on radio/tv programs claiming that John Mahama is preaching peace and hope, while their biggest incorruptible nightmare Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is preaching hopelessness because he talks about how our countrys economy has been totally destroyed and state coffers looted by government officials.
These afore-mentioned NDC adults with metal teeth have made it their avowed enterprise to always malign Nana Addo, at the expense of selling the so-called miracles performed by their party leader John Mahama. This has gone on for so long that, inadvertently, John Mahama have had the cause to complain about his so-called miraculous works not being trumpeted enough to the hearing of ordinary Ghanaians.
The time and energies of these NDC propagandist have rather been wasted on venomous vilification of Nana Addos person, while banking their completely dwindled electoral fortunes in the upcoming December 7,2016 general elections.
For instance, on the Wednesday 9th November,2016 edition of OK-FM morning programme, the NDC national organizer/director of operations for NDC campaign-2016, Kofi Adams is on OK-FM desperately linking John Mahama to Donald Trump by claiming that both "emerged from nowhere to lead their political parties and went on to win one-touch victory".
In the same interview, Kofi Adams touted the so-called performance of John Mahama and said though Obama did a good job and was very popular, his party has still lost the elections because voters vote for personalities and not political parties.
The General Secretary of the ruling NDC party, Asiedu-Nketia said on Tuesday,8th November edition of OK-FM morning programme, that, the Democratic party in America represents the NDC while the Republican party represents NPP, and that, what happens in the American elections, winner-wise, is what will happen here in Ghana, come 7th December, 2016.
According credible intelligence some of us have chanced upon, the NDC has actually rdered, from China, massive volumes of paraphernalia [t-shirts, hand-bags, caps, wrist bands, bandanas, aprons etc.] embossed with images of John Mahama and Hillary Clinton, to be distributed to at their campaign rallies with the message that the democrats are their ideological allies so once they have been triumphant in America, the same scenario was going to play out in our upcoming 7th December,2016 general elections. But god being so good, Donald Trump pulled a huge surprise, and this planned propaganda party has suffered a dramatic still-birth.
Trump attributes
Donald Trump is business-minded, abhors corruption in political officialdom, vowed to protect America's borders, cut taxes, slam the door on potential terrorists and keep out illegal aliens. On the other-hand, NDC eulogizes corruption in political officialdom, opens our borders to allow aliens to flock into Ghana to influence who becomes our president, raises taxes to astronomic levels and opens our doors to al-Qaeda terrorists from Guantanamo. Effectively, NDC loves to associate itself with the democrats in America but completely jettison the commensurate integrity and incorruptibility.
Following the electoral success of Donald Trump, these loud-mouth NDC propagandists that were all over the place drawing similarities with results of American elections with what was going to happen on 7th December,2016, here in Ghana, they have gone completely silent on their insipid propaganda, quietly licking their wounds and fearing for same fate to befall them.
Now, some of us observing from afar, erroneously saw these campaign messages by the man, as 'warmongering' and anti-immigrants but what we didn't understand is the fact that, indeed, Donald Trump was only providing a voice for a genuine pent-up 'anger' in the American system which everyone was scared to talk about, for fear of being demonized. Incidentally, the same scenario is clearly playing out here in Ghana, as 7th December, 2016 fast approaches.
Source: Justice Abeeku Newton-Offei
Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.
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Flag bearer of the New Patriotic Party, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has promised to assemble a Special Forces unit in the Ghana Police Service and station them on various highways to combat highway robberies in the major trading centers across the country.
Delivering a speech during a campaign at Yeji in the Brong Ahafo region, Nana Addo indicated that armed robbers have made it a point to attack traders on highways and collect their valuables.
When you vote me into power, I will set up special units to deal with armed robbery on the highway. We are going to stop all those corrupt exercises he stated.
Rate of highway robberies on traders in Atebubu and Techiman have increased dramatically this year.
It is due to these incidents that the NPP flag bearer, Nana Akufo-Addo said he will deal severely with the menace if he is given the nod as President of Ghana.
Source: adomonline
Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.
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President John Mahama has described supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the silent majority who usually amplify their voice by voting massively for the party during elections.
President Mahama who said this at Kpone, as part of his campaign tour of the Greater Accra Region argued that the opposition New Patriotic Party does not stand a chance in this election even with the partys vociferous supporters.
NDC, we are the silent majority because we dont speak much. If you look at the NPP, they talk a lot. When you meet one or two of them, they can talk more than the crowd here. But the NDC, the silent majority always surprises them during elections. They wonder where the party gets its vote but our supporters are there.
Mahama further used the opportunity to list to the people the projects executed by his government in the region.
We made the most massive investment in the road sector in the history of Ghana. Not only that, if look at education weve done the same thing, he said adding that If you look at the education sector, it is the same thing. In Greater Accra, we are building ten new community senior high schools to enable our children to attend school.
Yesterday, I went to inaugurate one at Frafraha, Kwabenya and I am aware that the one at Kpone will be completed soon. So when the time is due I will come again and I come and inaugurate that one too, he added.
Source: Citifmonline.com
Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.
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The John Mahama 2016 Campaign notes with sadness the developments of today, Sunday November 13, 2016 during a well-patronised health walk organised by the Greater Accra Regional Branch of our great party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The sad developments, which were occasioned by an unprovoked attack followed by sporadic gunshots by identified hooligans from the Nima residence of Nana Akufo Addo, and thankfully without any reactions whatsoever from our party supporters, have now been twisted by the opposition party and their media partners, CitiFM and JoyFM.
Records available including photographs posted to the website of StarrFM, www.starrfmonline.com, confirm that it is the identified thugs from Nana Addos residence that were wielding various types of weapons and firing them.
The rush to issue statements, and together with their media partners circulate a false claim that supporters of the NDC wanted to attack the residence of the NPP flagbearer is clearly a failed attempt to hoodwink the public and the international community after photographs of their gun-wielding thugs appeared on both social and new media platforms.
No NDC supporter and participant in Sundays health walk wanted to enter let alone attack the Nima residence. It is also instructive to state that the police had cordoned off the property.
We dare JoyFM and CitiFM to provide the evidence they gathered that our supporters did anything close to what they reported.
The NDC and its candidate will continue to conduct a peaceful, calm and issue-based campaign. We challenge Nana Addo to disarm the thousands of young people called Invincible Forces he has recruited and trained and whose principal mission is to always cause mayhem and violence.
The available photographs from his residence should be a cause for worry to all peace-loving Ghanaians and others interested in the political stability of our country.
This mornings health walk, which started from the La Trade Fair Centre and went through various principals streets of Accra and also through Nima and Maamobi, confirmed the growing brand appeal, peoples recognition and appreciation of the achievements, and the overwhelming conformation that President John Dramani Mahama, is the Peoples Choice and will win the 2016 Presidential Election convincingly.
We encourage all political parties to take a step back and always look at the future of this country when taking decisions. Concocting stories and using bias media to
spread them across the globe does the country no good.
Signed
Joyce Bawah Mogtari
Spokesperson
Source: Peacefmonlinecom/Ghana
Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.
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The Chief of Old Tafo Zongo, Alhaji Yussif Chibsah, has touted the approach by the NPP towards the development of Zongo as unique and unprecedented.
Alhaji Chibsah says the NPP and Nana Akufo Addo present a new strategy that will his help bridge the development gap in the Zongo communities across the country.
Touching on the proposed Zongo Development Fund as well as the Constituency Development Fund, the Chief urged Ghanaians to consider the pragmatic policies and programmes of the NPP and make informed decision.
He described the policies as highly innovative and a paradigm shift from the usual piecemeal approach to development.
The Chief pointed out that considering these and other laudable policies contained in the manifesto of the NPP, it will be unfair not to give them an opportunity to govern this country.
According to him, a vote for the NDC will be a disaster for Ghana and its people.
Alhaji Chibsah, made the statement when the wife of the NPP running mate, Mrs. Samira Bawumia, together with the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the party, Mr.Bernard Antwi Boasiako, paid a courtesy call on him at his palace in Tafo.
VIDEO Below...
On her part, Mrs. Samira Bawumia debunked the assertion that the NPP is anti-northern/Muslim, stressing that the NPP is the only party with a deliberate convention and plans for Muslims and northerners.
She observed that it is highly absurd for the NDC and their cronies to engage in wicked propaganda that Nana Akufo Addo will chase Muslims and northerners away from the country.
"For the first time in the history of this country, we had both the Qur'an and the Bible at the Presidency thanks to the NPP. Thankfully we shall be seeing another of that in 2017 so why would the NDC continue to throw dust into the eyes of the good people of Ghana," she questioned.
Mrs. Samira Bawumia also assured the Zongo Chief that the NPP would remain true to its promise to revamp the Zongo and northern communities.
Source: Chris Joe Quaicoe/ email: [email protected]
Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.
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For years , Denmark based Ghanaian artiste ,Bobo Pee has been spreading the good new of Ghanaian music to the outside world through his songs and after considerable success with his debut album,the artiste has released his second album titled Alma.
According to him ,the album which was officially released on the various media portals last week Monday ,October 31 ,is aimed at giving the world a taste of Africa music. Songs on the 12-tracks album are Funky,Sika do ,Beng fa,Agege,Killer B3 wu,Casanova,Banana, My Baby among others.
T project his African roots and its cultured heritage ,Bobo Pee,born Kingsley Edekor employs mostly highife rhythm on most of the songs.
However ,he shows his versatility on other pieces such as Casanova and Banana by exploring other beats in highlife and Afro Pop .
Though Bobo Pee has lived his life mostly in Copenhagen ,Denmark ,he believes he can use his platform to project Ghanaian music and make it attractive to the outside world.
The likes of King Ayioba and Wiyaala are flying high in European countries because what they are used to. We cant pretend we are better than the Beyonces and the Kanye Wests.Lets sell out music because it makes us distinct from others, were the words of Bobo Pee when he spoke with Showbiz last Wednesday .
Currently of BP Records,Bobo Pee,a songwriter was born and raised in Cape Coast, Ghana, but he has plied his made as a musician in Copenhagen where he performs at major venues with the aim of selling African musicfor the past decade. He continue to explore new,interesting directions and possibilities for the Ghanaian music tradition and that he said inspired him featuring highlife artists such as Kofi Kinaata on his new album . Other artists featured on the Alma album are Still Vybez,Riddm Boss and Tasha.
Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.
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A US judge has ordered the immediate prison release of Brendan Dassey, who was one of the subjects of Netflixs smash doco series Making A Murderer.
Dassey, 27, was 16-years-old when he was accused of helping his uncle, Steven Avery, rape, murder, and dispose of the body of 25-year-old photographer Teresa Halbach, who disappeared in Manitowoc Country, Wisconsin in November 2005.
Dassey, who has learning difficulties, confessed to the crimes, and he and Avery were both sentenced to life in prison.
Judge William Duffin has now ordered his release on the grounds that Dasseys confession was involuntary.
The court concluded that, when viewed collectively, various assertions and assurances the investigators repeatedly made to Dassey amounted to false promises that he would not be punished, he said.
These false promises, when considered in conjunction with the fact that Dassey was only 16-years-old, had significant intellectual deficits, had no prior experience with law enforcement aside from this investigation, was alone with the investigators without the benefit of an attorney or other allied adult, as well as other factors, rendered Dasseys confession involuntary under the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments.
Dassey is set to be released on strict conditions. He is not allowed to obtain a passport, possess a firearm, destructive device, or other dangerous weapon, now shall he use or possess any controlled substances unless prescribed. Hell have to submit to any drug test deemed appropriate by his probation officer. Hes also not allowed to leave the state of Wisconsin without approval from the court.
However, his lawyer Kathleen Zellner, who specialises in overturning wrongful convictions, tweeted that Wisconsin Attorney-General Brad Schimel is filing an emergency motion to prevent his release.
Wisconsin AG is filing an emergency motion to prevent Dasseys release. #MakingAMurderer Kathleen Zellner (@ZellnerLaw) November 14, 2016
More to come.
UPDATE: Zellner does not appear to be worried that Schimel will prevent Dasseys release.
Our bet is that Brendan Dassey will be at his familys Thanksgiving table no matter what Wisc. AG files. #MakingAMurderer #Justicerules Kathleen Zellner (@ZellnerLaw) November 14, 2016
Photo: Making A Murderer.
President-elect Donald Trumps first interview after winning the US presidential election is interesting. Well, we mean, of course it bloody is, but the 60 Minutes segment answered the question many hopeful punters on both sides of the political divide have asked since his win: will the checks and balances of the presidency actually tame Donald Trump and his wilder policy positions?
The answer is maybe, but look, probably not. And when things do go his way, you can expect massive changes in policy.
Flanked by his fam at his penthouse in Manhattans Trump Tower, the man wholl become the 45th President of the United States of America walked back a number of the more ostentatious proposals he made during his unprecedented campaign, but doubled down on more.
Lesley Stahl asked Trump why his transition team was packed full of his cronies with lobbying and finance backgrounds, despite his repeated claims he wanted to drain Washington D.C.s political swamp of special interest groups.
I will Make Our Government Honest Again believe me. But first, Im going to have to #DrainTheSwamp in DC. https://t.co/m1lMAQPnIb Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 18, 2016
Trump reply was essentially a hand-waving so what. He said thats the only people you have down there thats the problem with the system, the system. Right now, were going to clean it up. His claim that were going to phase that out. You have to phase it out is questionable, considering the immense power and influence hell be handing em.
When asked about locking up former opponent Hillary Clinton over that godforsaken email scandal, Trump again changed his stance. Seemingly muting the chants of lock her up that emanated from his rallies, Trump insisted hes going to think about it, but I want to focus on all of these other things that weve been talking about.
Reminder: heres what some of his rallies sounded like.
Trump supporters chant Lock her up! at a rally in Florida #USElection2016 https://t.co/n06N56Vjat Sky News (@SkyNews) November 7, 2016
His personal view of Crooked Hillary and the Clinton clan seems to have shifted, too. He told Stahl I dont want to hurt them. I dont want to hurt them. Theyre, theyre good people. I dont want to hurt them. And I will give you a very, very good and definitive answer the next time we do 60 Minutes together.
Much has been written about how boggling Americas Electoral College system is after all, Clinton is on track to actually walk away with over 2 million more popular votes than Trump and Trump has railed against the rigged system in the past. Now the Electoral College has enabled his big fat W, Trumps seems a little more genial towards what many claim is a clunky anachronism.
Well, you know, Im not going to change my mind just because I won. But I would rather see it where you went with simple votes But this is a different system. But I respect it. I do respect the system.
While he didnt rebuke the Ku Klux Klan for endorsing his presidency, Trump did call for anyone committing acts of racially-motivated violence after his victory to stop it.
I would say dont do it, thats terrible, cause Im gonna bring this country together.
Stop it Donald Trump says to any of his supporters who may be involved in threatening behavior https://t.co/PGBVkXyvcE pic.twitter.com/MjFz4ntzk7 60 Minutes (@60Minutes) November 14, 2016
Bit late there Donny, but okay. Another aspect that were going to chalk up as a victory for basic human equality: he said he wont challenge the legitimacy of same-sex marriage. Thats all well and good, but when your VP is conversion therapy advocate Mike Pence, anything is possible.
Those softened stances come after it was revealed his proposed wall on the US-Mexican border will likely be a fence in many places, and that his views of Barack Obama are undergoing a complete turnaround after, you know, meeting the bloke hes been disparaging for years.
However, there were a couple of affirmations of policy sprinkled in there, too. Regarding ISIS yup, while we were wrapped in in existential terror regarding Trump, those assholes didnt exactly put down their arms he maintained that he may still know more than US generals about defeating the radical group. He also kept mum about how exactly he plans to do it, but you can bet itll involve ol mate Vladimir Putin.
Perhaps his strongest re-affirmation of policy came when he discussed the rights of women to receive abortions. Trump said hes pro-life and vowed to call up a Supreme Court judge wholl work to overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade decision, which currently enshrines the right for women to receive an abortion in federal law.
Although Trump said that move has a long, long way to go, he intimated that regulations regarding abortion may revert to the states, and that women may eventually have to travel to undergo the procedure.
Trump on 60 Minutes on over-turning Roe v Wade: it would go back to states, some women would have to travel other states to have an abortion pic.twitter.com/BR05pWmuhU Mashable News (@MashableNews) November 14, 2016
After all that, we have a glimpse of the president Trump could be opinionated, sure, but in dire need of direction from his confidantes and party to function in any meaningful way. Still, when the wishes of his political minders align with the will of Trump, shits going to change, big league. And, in some ways, we guess that was the entire point of Trumps campaign.
Source: 60 Minutes / CBS.
Photo: 60 Minutes / Facebook.
Texas Mother Kicks Out Son (Photo : Alex William/YouTube)
The Nov. 8 presidential election in the U.S. has divided not only the nation but also families as some members voted for Republican candidate Donald Trump and others for Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. Examples include Caitlyn Jenner and her two younger daughters Kendall and Kylie, Katy Perry and her parents, and even the outgoing President Barack Obama and some of his relatives.
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However, one viral video showed a Texas mother kick out of her house her young son who voted for Trump in a mock election in school. The bawling black boy is seen pleading with his mother not to kick him out of the house, but the mother is not moved by his tears.
The video shows the mother has packed his things in a suitcase which was ready by the doorway and the kid given a sign which stated, My mom kicked me out because I voted for Donald Trump. After giving him the sign, the boy is seem outside the house and lugging his suitcase and the sign while still crying.
The two-minute, 15-second video has become viral when it was posted on Friday on Facebook, getting more than 10 million views in less than 24 hours, 12News reported. On YouTube where the video was shared by Alex Williams, the video has close to 200,000 hits.
But while the Fort Bend County woman was heavily criticized for what she did to her young son which traumatized the boy, a detective that ABC spoke to said the video does not show any criminal wrongdoing. Although the content of the video is disturbing, no charges had been filed by the woman likely black who feels strongly against Trump because of his stand against minorities.
The countrys Sheriff Office investigated the incident and discovered it was just a joke. Detective Joe Luera said he met the family off-site and the boy appears to be in good health. The mother has apologized for the video.
Ah, yes: its that magical time of the year where hordes of us flock to open spaces in order to gawk at a rare celestial wonder. Get hyped for the supermoon, friends.
Muuuuuuum, the moons doing that thing again pic.twitter.com/jKp5nVO3ml courtney (@courtwhip) September 28, 2015
Catching it might be tricky in Sydney, where clouds are predicted to cock-block the whole event, but legitimate experts in astro-photography have given punters nationwide tips to avoid their giving snapshots a similarly out-of-focus fate.
NASAs senior photographer Bill Ingalls has advised everyone with their heads tilted towards the heavens not to make the mistake of photographing the moon by itself with no reference to anything.
Sure, itll be super, but when all youve got to compare it to is the vast emptiness of space, the impact might just be lost. When looking for landmarks to compare the sky to, Ingalls says he uses Google Maps and other apps even a compass to plan where to get just the right angle at the right time.
Were not suggesting you crack out your Year 10 trigonometry skills just for the Gram, but were not not saying it, either. If hiking to a landmark is a bit much (and look, well be scoping it out in our trackie dacks), Ingall also says there are lots of great photos of people appearing to be holding the moon in their hand and that kind of thing.
You can get really creative with it.
Of course, if all youre packing is your phone camera, Ingalls recommends getting really creative to get the most out of it. Needless to say, you dont need to nick your partners DSLR while theyre distracted he reckons its rad if you do something more panoramic, including some foreground thats interesting, or think about being in an urban area where its a little bit brighter.
Oh, and make sure your lens isnt smudged. Natch.
Ingalls also encourages all you would-be snappers to tinker with your exposure settings, lest you wind up with a stack of shots that are dim or blindingly bloody bright. Alternatively, you could just stay inside and wonder at the work of professional photogs and your more adventurous friends. Thats what Instagram is for anyway, right?
For the record, its recommended you get your shots while the moon is juuust peaking over the horizon. Heres when thatll happen:
Brisbane: 5:51pm AEST Perth: 6:33pm AEST Darwin: 6:37pm AEST Sydney: 7:07pm AEDT Adelaide: 7:32pm AEDT Hobart: 7:38pm AEDT Melbourne: 7:40pm AEDT
Alternatively, some other cloud experts have had their say:
Get high and go watch the super moon tonight. #SuperMoon Tommy Chong (@tommychong) November 14, 2016
Enjoy the show, fam.
Source: NASA / ABC.
Malcolm Turnbulls rote media persona is almost enough to make you question why he undergoes interviews at all, and weve come to learn exactly what kind of pseudo-answers were going to get.
A reliance on practiced soundbites is apparent in his speech deflections to Labor are rife in many of the contexts he ever finds himself speaking in but you may have also noticed a similar set of catchphrases surrounding Australias border security, and more recently, our future relations with an America under Donald Trump.
Surprisingly, watching those deflections coalesce on tonights 7.30 was the most striking element of the program.
Speaking to the inimitable Leigh Sales, Turnbull discussed the out-of-thin-air deal to send asylum seekers on Nauru and Manus Island to the United States.
When pressed on the very real risk of Trump reneging on the deal due to his proposed plan to ban Muslim immigration to the US, Turnbulls repeated deflection suggested theres no goddamn Plan B.
I am confident that the arrangements that weve set in place will continue, Turnbull said, in a holistically worrying fashion.
As we covered earlier today, the government doesnt really know how Trump is liable to impact the deal. That being said, Turnbulls comments suggest a difference in opinion to that of Immigration Minister Peter Dutton, who told Hack that discussions with a third nation are still in the works.
For our sake scratch that, for the sake of everyone currently in Australian offshore detention we hope Trump doesnt flip over this one. And right now, that seems like something huge to hope for.
Source and photo: 7.30 / Twitter.
First, the good news: Peter Dutton has just confirmed that the Government plans to resettle refugees currently on Manus Island and Nauru in the US even if their wildly-controversial (and plainly cruel) bill to ban anyone who sought asylum by boat post-2013 from ever coming to Australia does not pass the Senate. Which, by the by, further proves that the ban is unnecessary.
While Dutton did not provide a proper timeframe on the deal, this at least sounds like good news for the people weve tortured for the past three years. Small blessings, lets enjoy them.
But in todays interview with Hack, Dutton also largely dodged the depressing questions as to what will happen to the refugees when President-Elect Donald Trump comes into office next January. Will Trump send them back as part of the two-to-three million he plans to deport anyway? Will he simply renege on the deal if the groups arent transferred in time?
When asked by Tom Tilly how the plan will work under Trump, Dutton remained elusive:
We can only deal with one President at a time, he said. This is the result of months of work, well continue to work with the Obama administration and continue to run with the Trump administration.
When pressed further on a situation where this deal wont be successful, Dutton did mentioned the usual unnamed, elusive third countries hes still in talks with. The ones that have, until now, included Cambodia, the countries these people risked their lives escaping, or nada.
He also mentioned in a later Sky News piece that he kind of just hopes Trump will honour the agreement. Because it is important to Australia, you see.
.@PeterDutton_MP The @realDonaldTrump administration will respect the fact that this is a very important issue to the Oz Govt @SkyNewsAust Laura Jayes (@ljayes) November 14, 2016
To be fair, Duttons kind of non-answer is an entirely reasonable response; nobody counted on Trump winning, and itd be hard to imagine the Liberal Party creating a plan on the basis that itll eventually be defeated.
It honestly sounds like Dutton just hopes the refugees are settled well before Barack Obama leaves January 20th and the end times begin. Then, this deal and our turnback policy (aka refoulement) will at long last make people seeking asylum by boat some other countrys problem.
The interview contained a few more highlight, notably a reference to the untouched New Zealand offer to take refugees. Dutton weirdly maintained that New Zealand was a backdoor to reaching Australia, an argument that relies on the people seeking asylum wanting it solely from our country and not, yknow, anywhere that wont torture them.
.@TomTilley points out the governments hypocrisy rejecting NZ deal re marketing opportunity but doing US deal and saying the same thing Shane Bazzi (@shanebazzi) November 14, 2016
He also, weirdly, maintained that Australia taking American refugees, likely originating from Costa Rica, does not constitute a people swap, even though swapping people is literally what is going to happen.
Credit: Triple J Hack.
Photo: Getty / Stefan Postles / Stringer.
Donald Trump has used his first post-election interview which will air this morning Australian time to double down on his election promises re: illegal immigration, promising that hell immediately deport millions of people and work towards constructing a wall on the border with Mexico.
Despite the fact much attention has been given to Trump backtracking on many of his election promises such as the vague softening of his rhetoric on Obamacare, for example it doesnt really seem like thats the case when it comes to his extreme border policies.
He said in the 60 Minutes interview thathe will move to immediately deport or incarcerate between 2 to 3 million criminal undocumented immigrants:
What we are going to do is get the people that are criminal and have criminal records, gang members, drug dealers, where a lot of these people, probably 2 million it could be even 3 million we are getting them out of our country or we are going to incarcerate. But were getting them out of our country. Theyre here illegally.
He went on to say that the people who dont meet the description of criminal, a determination will be made later:
After the border is secure and after everything gets normalised, were going to make a determination on the people that theyre talking about, who are terrific people theyre terrific people, but we are going to make a determination at that.
Its worth querying whether the United States even has the law enforcement infrastructure to make that happen, but there can be no doubt that the intention is there. House Speaker Paul Ryan has said there are no plans to establish a deportation force but Ryan has been drastically wrong on Trump before, and theres no reason to assume hes right this time.
That being said, the Obama administration has deported at least 2.5 million people since they came to power in 2009 around 23% more than the Bush years. Trumps clearly proposing a faster timeline, but something of that scale is not without precedent.
He was asked whether he would accept a fence instead of a border wall. For certain areas I would, he replies. But he insists most of it will be a wall.
US president-elect Trump says border wall cld be a fence in spots, vows to catch 2~3m ppl that are in the country illegally &are criminal pic.twitter.com/6MJS4CCNA3 Yannis Koutsomitis (@YanniKouts) November 13, 2016
Well keep you posted on the details of this interview as more of it becomes available this morning.
Source: 60 M/inutes.
Photo: 60 Minutes.
Dave Chappelle is receiving high praise for his SNL opening monologue, with some people labelling it one of the best of all time.
As the current climate of the US is overwhelmed with saccharine sentiment in the wake of a Donald Trump victory, it makes sense why the comedians approach went down so well. Chappelles content certainly revolved around the devastation of the elections outcome, but watching it is like seeing the situation with fresh eyes because hes such a funny dude.
Americas done it. Weve actually elected an Internet troll as our president.
While reflecting on the bleak state of the world, Chappelle interrogated racial stereotypes, police brutality, and how the hell Obama and Trump are going to achieve a seamless transition in their presidencies and, of course, dropped a golden Harambe gag. He also spoke, more sincerely, about the Trump riots, the historically disenfranchised status of minority cultures in America, and how he still feels hopeful for his country.
In classic Chappelle fashion, the monologue is full of profanities, which is fair enough to be honest. Check it out below (especially the last two minutes theyre an absolute corker):
Source: Hypebeast.
Image: NBC.
This week has been a mixed bag for property developers with political interests. One of em was confirmed as the next leader of the US, but its now been revealed Salim Mehajer was arrested in Ibiza.
In footage obtained by A Current Affair, the former deputy mayor of Sydneys Auburn can be seen speaking to Spanish coppers, before they deemed it necessary to bundle him into a police vehicle.
The program reports the situation was spurred by an unfortunate incident on Friday involving a taxi, chips and ice-cream. Thats usually a recipe for delicious disaster, and ACA claims the driver took umbrage to Mehajer and two friends spilling their food in his vehicle.
Its thought an argument burst out between the cars occupants. The driver alleged Mehajer kicked at him from his seat in the back, at which point the driver called the police, pulled over and instructed the three men to leave the vehicle.
Cops arrived soon after. Thats when the video kicks in.
Its not yet known what charges if any have been laid against Mehajer, and hes yet to comment on the incident through his social media channels. However, a breezy Instagram post from a day ago does verify the blokes presence on the party island.
Life goes on in Ibiza town. Whilst every bar and club are closed during this season, the ocean remains. There is no better sound to hear than the ocean, the wind, and the rain all at once, late at night. A photo posted by Official ???????????? (@salim.mehajer) on Nov 12, 2016 at 4:25pm PST
Well let you know how this one winds up.
Source: 9 News.
Photo: A Current Affair / Facebook.
*inhales extremely slowly*
*exhales extremely slowly*
Alllllllrighty then. Where to begin, I wonder? Ill start at the very beginning, I suppose: a horrifying place to start.
An Aussie bodybuilder has decided to eat the placenta he kept from his daughters birth, as a way to make bulk natty gains. (Natty = natural, IYWW.)
Uh huh.
The father, Arron Curtis, posted a video to Youtube of him discussing, preparing, and eating the afterbirth.
He says,
With the birth of my first child, I thought I would consume the organ that provided her with life during the pregnancy, in the hope of making some gains.
The video opens with this bizarrely-thought-out statement:
Hmmm what better way, you say? Well, most people go straight for loving and caring for their new child, as opposed to cannibalistically eating the babys life source. But hey, maybe thats just us.
A friend quizzes him on how it tastes, after hes cooked the afterbirth on a grill.
He tells them it tastes a bit like liver (a pretty common analogy), and starts to become concerned about whether hes cooked it enough.
After he hits a salty bit, his partner Erica steps in and tells him shes putting her foot down, and he has to stop. A big well done to Erica, whose help we wouldve appreciated approximately an hour before hed begun filming.
WARNING: GRAPHIC FOOTAGE, BECAUSE YEAH, PLACENTAS ARE SUPER BLOODY, BE WARNED.
Pinky-swear youre gonna be okay? Alright, click play:
Look, lets be clear here.
Eating the placenta is incredibly nutrient-rich and health-boosting for new mothers, especially if theyre breastfeeding or if theyre struggling with postpartum depression. Its super common in certain cultures, and its actually pretty amazing. Its natural, and hey; your body, your choice!
Whats ever-so-slightly less natural is dudes eating it for bulk gains so they get more likes on Instagram photos tagged #gymlife #shredz #swole, ay bruh. But hey welcome to 2016.
Source: Youtube.
It kinda looks like Mother Nature gave large swathes of Australia a bit of a wind up this evening over the whole supermoon thing. Basically, many of our dates with the celestial wonder were ruined by some first class cock-blocking from a shit-tonne of cloud cover.
In a very old man yells at cloud kind of reaction, would-be astronomers took out their frustrations with everyones favourite medium: Twitter.
Looks like the #Supermoon cant be seen in parts of Australia today because of cloud cover and rain. Damn Clouds! pic.twitter.com/0X5CNMmNmp Geek Of Oz (@GeekOfOz) November 14, 2016
That dissatisfaction among Aussie punters manifested in memes, because of course it bloody did:
My view of the #supermoon tonight from work, such beauty. pic.twitter.com/SGx7EfJcTG Alex Zourkas (@ThemAgain1) November 14, 2016
Eventually, a few decent shots did break through. And, by decent, we mean goddamn b-e-a-utiful:
A photo posted by City of Sydney (@cityofsydney) on Nov 14, 2016 at 2:05am PST
??#supermoon goodness on the #goldcoast tonight @gcbulletin #history #bucketlist #cloudy #southport A photo posted by Kristy Muir (@lovefromkris) on Nov 14, 2016 at 12:53am PST
Ive seen bigger #supermoon #Perth A photo posted by Marc (@metrotrekker) on Nov 14, 2016 at 2:59am PST
Brisvegas Supermoon #lights #supermoon #brisbane #sky #nightlights #moon A photo posted by Alexandra (@woodydownunder) on Nov 14, 2016 at 3:04am PST
PEDESTRIAN.TVs own Ben McLeay caught this jaw-dropper in Brisbane:
If that aint enough for you, youll be chuffed to learn some other parts of the world were also treated to a magnificent show:
Outstanding photo of the #supermoon & a plane over London (?? by @photogator96) pic.twitter.com/JgNbcZHKdV Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) November 14, 2016
Man stands on a balcony in Madrid as the moon rises in background. #supermoon (GERARD JULIEN/AFP) pic.twitter.com/d9aMUSXD3W Doja | ???? (@dojadaoud) November 14, 2016
Fair go, ya big grey chunk of goodness.
Source: Twitter.
Photo: Dallas Kilponen / Instagram.
On The Project recently, co-host Steve Price and columnist Jamila Rizvi got into a reasonably heated debate about the United States election and Donald Trump becoming President.
While Prices opinion on Trump (the feeling of disenfranchisement among American voters, particularly those living in middle America) was a valid point of discussion, he unfortunately interrupted Rizvi to make the point (during a question directed to her), which caused co-host Carrie Bickmore to tell him off and to watch his tone.
Rizvi expressed an also-valid opinion in response to Prices interruption, telling him that the concept of Real America is bullshit because all Americans are real Americans.
Price told her that,
This is the reason why Donald Trump won, because people like you lecture and hector people.
Watch below:
A petition has now erupted on the Internet, claiming that the Channel 10 show should apologise to Price live on air.
At time of writing, it has been signed by 18,000 people, who believe that Price is a victim of leftist bullying.
Steve was abruptly cut off and insulted by Jamila on national television, despite his best efforts to lower the outrageous tone being fuelled by the guest. In every single facebook post detailing the exchange, the people of Australia have expressed their outrage of the leftist bullying that occurred, coming out in support of the conservative commentator. Nobody, no matter what side of politics they fall on, should have to experience the abuse and degradation of what Steve had to go through on that program.
The petition claims that on every single Facebook post the people of Australia were outraged about the way Price was treated, but in actual fact there was considerable debate about who was in the wrong. Many were also outraged about the treatment of Rizvi.
It isnt a secret that Price has received much backlash in the past for cutting people off, or considering his own views and voice more important than other peoples.
Recently, he received much backlash for consistently speaking over journalist Van Badham on Q&A, who he called hysterical when she attempted to ignore his interruptions and finish her sentence about sexist behaviour on The Footy Show. When called upon to apologise, Price said he refused to be verballed by an aggressive woman.
However, hes also clashed heavily with co-host Carrie Bickmore in the past. Earlier this year, the host was left furious when she questioned Price about a tweet that implied mothers should feed their child more discreetly after he saw a woman publicly breastfeeding in the Qantas terminal of a domestic airport.
A mother of two herself, Bickmore told an increasingly-frustrated Price that his tweet came off badly:
Just for your information, we feed where we want to, not where you want us to.
Prices response was unapologetic then, too:
I can comment on what I like, when I like, and people can just go and jam it as far as Im concerned.
Above all else; it should be acknowledged that Prices whole purpose on the show is to cause debate and speak on behalf of a more conservative audience. Hes supposed to ruffle feathers; hes supposed to create arguments; hes paid big bucks to fill the shock jock shoes. He isnt there to be apologetic hes there to be divisive.
However, a petition calling for an apology because he was told to let someone finish their sentence and to watch his tone, when he himself has based his modern career on yelling over others seems a teensy bit rich. If Rizvi & Bickmores actions can legitimately considered leftist bullying, what should Prices previous misdemeanours be deemed?
At the end of the day, we could all agree that more politeness from both sides of the political spectrum would be a fantastic addition to the current state of the world tbh, but hey chance would be a fine thing.
If youd like to check out the petition, you can do that HERE.
Source: Change.org.
Photo: The Project.
Potternerds, get ready: the first reviews of Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them are here.
The first instalment of the J.K. Rowlings prequels opens this Thursday, and fans finally have a chance to see if her top notch story-telling skills translate from book to film with her first screenplay.
So what did the critics think?
Rowlings world-building skills remain top class.
THE GUARDIAN: Its a very Rowling universe, dense with fun, but always taking its own jeopardy very seriously and effortlessly making you do the same. The Beasts movies may actually make clearer Rowlings under-discussed debt to Roald Dahl. They also show that her universe with its exotic fauna is in the best way, a cousin to that of George Lucas.
THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER: Much of the films big wizarding-politics material will be appreciated mostly by those who thirst for ever more backstory in Rowlings universe. It will doubtless be useful as the franchise progresses, though the main villain, Gellert Grindelwald, makes the kind of teasing appearance at the end that promises a long Voldemort-like story arc. (Avoid IMDb if you want that cameo to surprise you.) Whether or not the ensemble chemistry ever clicks to the extent it did for Harry, Hermione and Ron, Rowling clearly has an endless supply of lore left to share with those invested in her world.
Eddie Redmayne is superbly cast as Newt Scamander:
THE GUARDIAN: Its a lovely performance from Eddie Redmayne who is a pretty fantastic beast himself. Theres a moment when he has to whisper an errant animal into submission and his contortions would put Andy Serkis to shame His Newt is a connoisseur, scientist and scatterbrained magic-beast taxonomist who is not far from the scarf-swathed Dr Who, a specless Potter or beardless Darwin. Redmaynes distinctively breathy voice even has something of the young Attenborough.
VARIETY: Oddly, Rowlings script gives us practically no information about Scamanders backstory at this point, whereas Goldstein gets multiple flashbacks over the course of the film. Thats probably because Rowling, whose world-building skills are rivaled only by George Lucas, appears to be primarily concerned with plot at this point, and Goldsteins memories serve the story, while this two-plus-hour-plus pilot evidently doesnt leaves much room for the sort of character detail wed all like to get about Scamander (whom Redmayne plays with stooped shoulders and a slightly bow-legged walk, easily winning sympathy for someone whose every judgment seems to endanger the fate of his kind).
TIME OUT: Redmayne radiates a wet-eyed warm glow as stumbling, bashful Newt an English wizard in New York. Hes perfect for Rowlings world, where a kind heart is the most potent magical power of all Redmaynes lovely performance sets up the emotional core of the franchise. So yes, the magic is still there.
YAHOO!: Eddie Redmayne makes an ideal Newt Scamander, who is endearingly sheepish around humans but gifted with the nifflers, bowtruckles, erumpents and so forth to whom the pics title refers.
THE TELEGRAPH: Unexpectedly, its moments like this that stay with you more sharply than the set-pieces. The film is immaculately cast, and the chemistry between its four heroes holds your eye with its firework fizz.
Its a reflection on the current state of American politics.
COLLIDER: These kinds of themesacceptance, social divisions, and bigotryare as crucial to Rowlings wizarding world as wands, spells, and apparating. Thats what makes her stories special. She didnt just come up with a fun tale where people with magical powers live among us. The social commentary has always been a part of her writing, and its in the foundation for Fantastic Beasts.
TIME OUT: Has JK Rowling been taking divination lessons at Hogwarts? With spooky clairvoyance, the first movie in her new five-film wizarding franchise opens with two factions in America at each others throats. No, not Republicans and Democrats. Its 1926, and wizards and muggles (only in America they call them no majs) are on the brink of civil war. Oh, and in the non-magical world, a bully-boy heir to a fortune is wooing voters. Top of the class, JK!
VARIETY: Fantastic Beasts does double-duty as yet another imagination-tickling fantasy adventure and a deeply troubled commentary on tolerance, fear, and bigotry in the world today. Though Rowling takes the opportunity to introduce a few tolerance-oriented messages, one cant help but question the limits of the allegory: In the real world, bigots dont have a real reason to hate members of other races and religions, whereas wizards however much we love them pose a very real threat to normal people (grisly Obscurus attacks result in at least two deaths, and the destruction of large swaths of New York). Its the same logical flaw that operates in both the Avengers and X-Men franchises, and Rowling doesnt have much to add yet.
Its dark as hell.
VARIETY: Just when you thought the world of Harry Potter couldnt get any darker, along comes a bleak-as-soot spin-off that makes the earlier series look like kids stuff.
IGN: Newt and company get into increasingly large amounts of trouble with the American magical authority known as the MACUSA while trying to round up the beasts, and all the while a much darker, more dreary plot unfolds.
THE GUARDIAN: This is Steampunk 2.0, taking its inspirations from Terry Gilliams Brazil or Howard Hawkss His Girl Friday but the New York she creates also has the dark, traumatised look of Gotham City.
But its not Harry Potter.
EW: So why does Fantastic Beasts feel so oddly lifeless? Why doesnt it cast more of a spell? First, there are the performances, which aside from Redmaynes are surprisingly flat. And second, the thinness of the source material gives the whole film a slightly padded feeling. Rowling, who also wrote the script, nimbly lays out her world, but that world isnt nearly as rich as the world of Hogwarts. And the villains (chief among them Colin Farrells Percival Graves) are stock cinematic baddies. Fantastic Beasts is two-plus hours of meandering eye candy that feels numbingly inconsequential. Maybe this is all necessary table-setting that will lead to bigger payoffs in chapters 2 through 5. I hope so. Because for a movie stuffed with so many weird and wondrous creatures, there isnt nearly enough magic.
With the depressing news that Johnny Depp will be playing Gellert Grindelwald now confirmed, itll be interesting to see how the next four films which are obviously going to focus more on his ascent to the role of Wizard Hitler play out.
But in other, more exciting news the sequel will take place in Paris! Bonjour, Professor Dumbledore.
This isnt correct, Im afraid! The sequel doesnt begin days after first movie ends (although we do go to Paris.) https://t.co/lkvIozKweU J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) November 13, 2016
Fantastic Beasts opens in cinemas November 18.
Photo: Warner Bros.
Lee Kwang Soo is a South Korean actor and TV personality who stars in the web drama 'Sound of Your Heart.' (Photo : YouTube/KBS World TV)
Lee Kwang Soo's web drama "Sound of Your Heart" may have recently aired its first episode but it already the interest of many South Korean drama lovers. With barely a week after it was released, the series reached an impressive feat on Naver TV Cast.
"Sound of Your Heart," a web drama based on Jo Seok's hit web comic, recently posted high viewership levels on Naver TV Cast. Released on Nov 7, Monday, the webtoon nearly broke through the 10 million view count mark six days after it premiered.
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Lee's web drama posted online views of more than 9.68 million as of Nov. 13, Sunday, according to Korea Herald. With a 20-episode run, the web series is expected to reach 100 million views on Naver TV Cast.
Based on the webcomic's author's life, the drama tells various stories about the cartoonist Jo and his family including his girlfriend now wife Ae Bong. The "Running Man" cast member portrays Jo, while "Mischievous Kiss" actress Jung So Min plays Ae Bong.
Apart from Lee and Jung, veteran South Korean actor Kim Byung Ok also joined the web drama as Jo's father. Other cast members include "Healer" actress Kim Mi Kyung and "Misaeng" star Kim Dae Myung as Jo's mother and older brother, respectively. The drama will also feature a cameo from Lee's close friend, "Descendants of the Sun" actor Song Joong Ki.
Meanwhile, viewers can expect to see several funny and dramatic moments in the web drama "Sound of Your Heart." Lee even agreed to unveil certain parts of his body in an upcoming nude scene.
In the drama's press conference held Nov. 3, Thursday, the actor recounted his preparations for a scene that required him to expose certain parts of his lower body. Aside from physical preparations, Lee also had to mentally prepare himself for the nude scene, Korean news outlet My Daily quoted the star as saying.
"Sound of your Heart" episodes will be released online every Monday and Thursday. Watch the web drama's trailer below.
Rob Kardashian and Blac Chyna arrive at her birthday celebration and 'Chymoji' Emoji Collection launch at California's Hard Rock Cafe on May 10, 2016. (Photo : Getty Images/Greg Doherty)
Kris Jenner is seemingly living a dream. The matriarch of Kardashian-Jenner clan took to Instagram on Nov. 12, Saturday, to share an adorable photo of her smiling son Rob Kardashian holding his newborn with fiancee Blac Chyna.
"This face says it all and melts my heart... @robkardashian ... that smile ain't nothin but a DREAM congratulations Rob and Chyna!! @blacchyna #love #family #dreamcometrue @dream," the 61-year-old wrote on Instagram.
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The youngest member of the famous family has born on Nov. 10, Thursday. She arrived at 9:18 a.m., weighing 7 lbs., 5 oz. Jenner was present at the time of the delivery.
"I got to watch [the] delivery," Kris gushed to E! News. "It was so beautiful and I'm so excited and happy to have another grandchild!"
Chyna gave birth to the child at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, where she arrived earlier this month for a caesarean section. The couple is back at the model's home with the baby as they checked out of the hospital on Nov. 12, Saturday.
Kardashian and Chyna are said to be in a great place in their relationship since the birth of Dream. They opted for the unusual moniker for the little one as it has always been the "Keeping Up With The Kardashians" star's "dream" to have a child of his own.
"Dream was Rob's favorite name because it was always his dream to have a baby," a source told US Weekly. "She is gorgeous and looks a lot like Rob."
Even though she is just a few days old, Dream is already a social media star. The baby has a verified Instagram account. Her account was created by her proud parents just a day after her birth.
The account already has more than 160,000 followers and a blue "verified" check mark next to her name with an upload of a breastfeeding pic. Chyna also took to Snapchat to share a series of videos of herself pumping breast milk.
Rob and Chyna are seen on E!'s reality show. Watch its teaser below:
GOOGLE-ELECTION
This screenshot of Google provided by The Washington Post shows false election results being shared at the top of Google search results for the election.
(Screenshot from Google)
If you head to Google to learn the final results of the presidential election, the search engine helpfully walks through the final electoral vote tallies and number of seats won by each party in the House and Senate. Under that, Google lists some related news articles. At the top this morning, with an accompanying photo: a story arguing that Donald Trump won both the popular and electoral votes.
That's not true.
The Daily Show's Dan Amira noticed that numbers were being spread on social media that linked back to the "70 News" site.
This guy's tweet has thousands of likes and retweets. His source for these numbers is the site https://t.co/HvheqglyZW pic.twitter.com/ZUelzRhPUo Dan Amira (@DanAmira) November 14, 2016
The 70 News article cites its source as a tweet, which cites as its source USASupreme.com, another random website which doesn't actually include the numbers themselves. It does, however, argue that Hillary Clinton is "probably not going to win the actual number of votes cast. She may win the number of votes counted, but not the votes cast." That distinction is ... not really clear, except that the author, "Alex," seems to believe that absentee ballots are only counted if the tally could make the difference in the election.
That's not true, either.
In light gray text above the link to 70 News, Google relays the actual current tally of counted votes: Clinton has a lead of about 700,000. That lead has grown since Election Day and will almost certainly continue to grow, since millions of the votes being counted are from California, and the plurality of those votes are from very-Clinton-friendly Los Angeles County.
The source behind the "USA Supreme" website isn't clear. It looks an awful lot like Prntly, a made-up news website we looked at earlier this year. Founded by a former convict named Alex Portelli, Prntly is part of the broad diaspora of websites that takes news about American politics, frames it in a pro-Trump way (often at the expense of accuracy) and then peppers the page with ads. In an email, Portelli denied involvement in USA Supreme, suggesting that it was the work of a group of young people in Macedonia first reported by BuzzFeed. These sites leverage the inability of Facebook and other social media sites to weed out nonsense in order to get clicks and make money from advertising -- a remarkably lucrative endeavor, particularly in a country where the U.S. dollar stretches a lot further.
Why Google includes 70 News as a news source isn't clear. Among the main categories of news stories the site lists in its header is "Hillary's Health," which links to a number of rumors about the health of the Democratic nominee. Under "Politics" is a story that, among other things, links the Council on American-Islamic Relations to Al Qaeda. Another story suggests that protestors against Trump in California were being paid to do so.
70 News has added a header to its post about the election results.
"Anyone asking where I got the figures, it was from twitter posts. Knowing the Democrat media have been dragging their liberal feet giving Michigan to Trump - finally they did, with Arizona finally declared two days ago - Trump now has the 309. Except for the twitter posts, the popular vote number still need to be updated in Wikipedia or MSM media - which may take another few days because the liberals are still reeling and recovering from Trump-shock victory. If I'm wrong, I won't hesitate to change the numbers. It's the job of the establishment media to tell the people the final numbers when it's out there already."
None of that is true, either.
The "establishment media" has regularly updated election results, showing Clinton with a wide popular vote lead. The reason that Michigan hasn't been called is that Trump's lead is 12,000 votes, and the results haven't been finalized. New Hampshire also hasn't been called for Clinton; her lead there is under 3,000 votes. "Alex" is wrong; he's hesitating to change the numbers.
If you're interested in tracking the final vote tallies in the presidential race, you can simply search Google and keep an eye out for the small print under the electoral college totals. If you also see an article from a random site you've never heard of? Maybe take its numbers with a grain of salt.
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West Shore doctor Joseph T. Acri is facing 3 to 23 months in Cumberland County Prison after he was sentenced on four counts of illegally prescribing a controlled substance.
(File photo. )
A Cumberland County doctor was sentenced to up to 23 months of confinement after authorities say he illegally prescribed narcotic pain relievers to people he did not medically examine.
Joseph T. Acri, 59, of Camp Hill, was sentenced by Cumberland County Judge Albert Masland Tuesday to 3 to 23 months of confinement, followed by 24 months of probation, on four counts of illegally prescribing a controlled substance.
Acri, who pleaded guilty to the charges in September, is authorized for work release and is eligible for the county's re-entry program, court records indicate.
The Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office filed charges in January following a grand jury investigation.
According to investigators, Acri had written bogus Oxycodone prescriptions to four people on prescription pads taken from the Carlisle Regional Medical Center, where he did not work at the time.
Also, prosecutors say Acri wrote prescriptions from a Camp Hill pizza shop to people he didn't even examine.
Investigators said the doctor wrote the prescriptions between February 2011 and March 2014.
He is to report to Cumberland County Prison on Nov. 28.
A York man is accused of sexually assaulting a teen with Down Syndrome who was in his care.
Albert Fraschetti, 59, of York, was charged Nov. 7 with indecent assault on a person with a mental disability, which is a first degree misdemeanor.
He is charged with assaulting the teen in July in Lower Chanceford Township. He was a caregiver in the teen's home for about two or three months before the incident, court records state.
State police in York said Fraschetti was seen on surveillance video footage in the home kissing the youth and rubbing his bare chest, after which the youth did the same to him.
Fraschetti told police the youth would play with the piercings he had on his nipples and penis. He said he would tell the youth to stop, but that he would overpower him. The victim told authorities he had seen the man's private parts.
Police said the teen's parents checked surveillance camera footage in the home because they had "an inkling that something was possibly going on." They had the cameras installed after past problems with caregivers, and wanted to monitor their son while at work via their cell phone, said court records.
A preliminary hearing for Fraschetti is scheduled for Nov. 28.
The Lancaster County Coroner was called to the scene of a crash in Providence Township.
The crash with a reported entrapment happened at Pennsy Road and Primrose Lane in Providence Township just after 4:15 p.m., according to Lancaster County dispatches. State police declined to provide further information, saying that details will be released at a later point.
LancasterOnline.com reported that a portion of Pennsy Road is expected to remain closed for an extended period of time.
John Kelemen
John Kelemen of Canonsburg, Pa., prays at a makeshift memorial to two Canonsburg police officers who were shot early Thursday, Nov 10, 2016, in Canonsburg, Pa. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
(Gene J. Puskar)
CANONSBURG, Pa. (AP) -- The first of two days of funeral home visitation are set to begin for a western Pennsylvania police officer slain in the line of duty.
The visitation for Canonsburg Officer Scott Bashioum is from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday and Tuesday at the Beinhauer Funeral Home in Peters Township. His funeral is Wednesday at noon at the Church of the Covenant in Washington, Pennsylvania.
Bashioum was killed and fellow Canonsburg Officer James Saieva Jr. was injured when Michael Cwiklinski shot both with a rifle from a second-floor window as the officers approached a duplex for a report that Cwiklinski was fighting with his pregnant mate.
Saieva is recovering in a Pittsburgh hospital.
The 47-year-old gunman shot himself after first killing 28-year-old Dalia Sabae.
UPDATE: The incident cleared around 9:40 a.m.
All lanes of I-81 south between Pine Grove and Lebanon are closed due to a disabled vehicle, PennDOT says.
The incident happened at 8:44 a.m. between Exit 100 (Route 443- Pine Grove) and Exit 90 (Route 72-Lebanon).
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.
Lebanon police are investigating a church window damaged by gunshots Sunday.
Police were called to the 700 block of Arnold Street near Chapel Street around 2 a.m. Sunday, but found no evidence of gun shots. But police and residents heard four gun shots being fired.
Around 8:45 a.m. Sunday, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in the 700 block of Lehman Street reported a broken window at the church, which is believed to have resulted from the earlier gun shots heard.
Police continue the investigation, and anyone with information is asked to call Lebanon police at 717-272-6611 or Crime Stoppers at 717-270-9800.
Powerball Jackpot
In this Jan. 13, 2016 file photo, a clerk hands over a Powerball ticket for cash at Tower City Lottery Stop in Cleveland.
(Tony Dejak, Associated Press file photo)
A winning Powerball ticket worth $1 million was sold at a gas station in Ephrata in Lancaster County on on Saturday, according to the Pennsylvania Lottery.
The ticket, which matched all five white balls, 08-17-20-27-52, but not the red Powerball 24, was sold at the Sunoco in the 500 block of West Main Street. The store receives a $5,000 bonus for selling a winning ticket.
Also, a ticket that ended up being worth $100,000 was sold at a Wawa on West Gordon Street in Lehigh County.
The winners weren't identified -- they must first claim their prizes and have their tickets validated. They have a year from the data of the drawing to claim their prizes.
Pennsylvania Judicial Center
The Pennsylvania Judicial Center
(File photo)
The mother of a 9-year-old boy who ran head-first into a concrete wall during gym class can keep suing the School District of Philadelphia over her son's injuries, a Commonwealth Court panel ruled Monday.
This was no minor mishap.
Judge Michael H. Wojcik noted in the state court's opinion that the May 2012 accident caused Jarrett Brewington to miss the final weeks of the 2011-12 academic year at the Walter G. Smith Elementary School.
The boy suffered a concussion and for three months was barred from talking or watching TV, the judge noted. He observed that nearly three years after the mishap the child still reported having memory problems.
The ruling by Wojcik's court revives a lawsuit a Philadelphia County judge had killed. Jarrett Brewington's mother, Syeta, appealed to Commonwealth Court after county Judge Karen Shreeves-Johns dismissed her negligence suit on grounds that the school district was protected by governmental immunity.
There could be legal room to find negligence on the part of the school district, however, Wojcik concluded.
Jarrett wasn't just fooling around when he was hurt, the state judge noted. The boy was participating in a relay race in the school's gym. The boundaries the kids had to touch were the gym's unpadded concrete walls.
Wojcik cited the boy's testimony that "I was running too fast and I couldn't stop and I tripped and fell...And hit my head on the wall." The boy said he blacked out and on awaking noticed that "blood ran all the way down my face."
Syeta Brewington contends in her lawsuit that school officials are liable for her son's injuries because they didn't shield the gym walls with safety mats.
In opting to send the Brewington case back to county court for further action.Wojcik cited several other student injury lawsuits that were allowed to be pressed against school districts Those examples included cases of a high school wrestler who accidentally smashed his hand through a glass door in a school hallway during a running drill; a student gymnast who missed a mat and hit the gym's hardwood floor; and a high school pole vaulter who landed with one foot on and the other off the safety mat.
The Brewington suit and those examples constitute cases where plaintiffs might be able to pierce a government's immunity shield with arguments that the property where the injury occurred was defective or improperly maintained, Wojcik found.
President-elect Donald Trump and his wife Melania Trump walk from a meeting with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell at the U.S. Capitol November 10, 2016 in Washington, DC. (Photo : Getty Images/Mark Wilson)
President-elect Donald J. Trump on Nov. 13, Sunday picked Reince Priebus as his would-be White House chief of staff. By choosing Priebus, the Republican National Committee chairman and a trustworthy campaign adviser, Trump has overlooked the claim of Stephen K. Bannon, a champion of right-wing media.
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In another significant move, Trump chose Bannon his senior counselor and principal West Wing strategist, hinting that he was ready to adopt the fringe ideology by Bannon for long. It also signaled that he would continue with his disregard for the Republican establishment.
A statement issued by Trump's transition team stated, "Bannon and Priebus will continue the effective leadership team they formed during the campaign, working as equal partners to transform the federal government, making it much more efficient, effective and productive." The announcement came in the wake of prevalent reports that Priebus and Bannon were in contention to be chief of staff
With Priebus as his White House chief of staff, Trump will be depending on a Washington insider who's camaraderie with the House speaker, Paul D. Ryan, may well help him to secure early legislative successes, the New York Times reported. The dual announcements by the president-elect have given rise to rival power centers when Trump takes office in the White House on Jan. 20, 2017.
U.S. Rep. Peter King described the dual appointments by the president-elect as "basically two sides of the same coin." "It's showing what Donald Trump's style is going to be," New York Post quoted King as saying.
According to King, Bannon's appointment as strategist clearly demonstrates that the president-elect is committed to conservative principles. On the other hand, by choosing Priebus as the chief of staff, Trump is showing he has a person who is not only conservative, but also has the insider experience that may help to get things done.
However, the selection of Priebus may anger the grass-roots activists who see him as a deal maker. They feel that Priebus may be very eager to push the new president to compromise on issues such as taxes, healthcare, immigration, trade and the environment. In fact, GOP political consultant and a Trump insider, Roger Stone has already warned in a tweet prior to the announcements that selecting Priebus as chief of staff "would cause a rebellion in Trump's base."
Watch president-elect Donald Trump's projected cabinet members:
Conservative leadership candidate Kellie Leitch says her enthusiasm for Donald Trump does not make her a racist. Leitch arrives at the national Conservative summer caucus retreat, in Halifax in a Sept. 13, 2016, file photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Andrew Vaughan
Letters to the Editor: How could anyone vote for Prop 3?
George RR Martin refuses to discuss 'The Winds of Winter' release date. (Photo : Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)
"Game of Thrones" author George R.R Martin may have predicted the outcome of the 2016 U.S. Presidential Elections. The recent elections, in which Republican candidate Donald Trump defeated Democrat Hilary Clinton in the presidential race, were oftentimes compared to the hit HBO series. In response to the elections, Martin posted a blog post titled "President Pussygrabber," where he expressed his disappointment over the outcome of the elections.
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"Trump was the least qualified candidate ever nominated by a major party for the presidency. Come January, he will become the worst president in American history, and a dangerously unstable player on the world stage," Martin wrote on his official blog.
He added that Trump will not be hindered by anyone, even by the Democrats in the House and the Senate, and that the problems of the country will persist and grow more in the next four years.
He closed his sentiments with, "Winter is coming. I told you so."
Meanwhile, Martin is not the only renowned author to have responded negatively to Trump's candidacy and eventual win.
"We stand together. We stick up for the vulnerable. We challenge bigots. We don't let hate speech become normalised. We hold the line," J.K. Rowling, author of the "Harry Potter" series wrote on Twitter following Trump's win on Nov. 8. Rowling openly spoke against Trump's remarks against women and people of color during the entirety of his campaign. She even went on to label Trump "worse than Voldemort" when he vowed to bar Muslim immigration to the US. The 51-year-old author said she cried watching Clinton's concession speech on
During the New York premiere of "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them" this weekend, Rowling was said to be in a "kind of bleak mood," The Independent reported. She, however, refused to talk about the President-elect, saying she prefers on the movie which many have worked so hard on.
"Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them" star Eddie Redmayne, on the other hand, said what the world needs now is a moment of reflection. "Time needs to be taken to work out what really happens now," Redmayne said.
Egypt MPs said the election of Donald Trump as America's new president means hard times ahead for the Muslim Brotherhood and good news for the country's president Sisi
In a quick reaction to the results of America's presidential election, Egypt MPs said the triumph of republican candidate Donald Trump could be a very positive development for Egypt.
Most of the MPs who spoke with parliamentary reporters Wednesday also agreed that the election of Trump should be considered good news for Egypt's president Abdel-Fattah El-Sisithe first Arab ruler to congratulate him on his triumph. Besides, they added, Trump's victory means a big setback for the Muslim Brotherhood and other Islamist movements who had high hopes that Democratic party candidate Hilary Clinton would win.
Margaret Azer, a Coptic MP, said in a statement that the election of Trump will surely mean a positive new beginning for the world and the Middle East.
"Trump's victory represents a radical departure from the Obama-Clinton clan who supported the Muslim Brotherhood and other political Islam movements," said Azer, adding that "in fact Hilary Clinton was the candidate of the Muslim Brotherhood rather than the Democratic party in the US presidential election."
"The election of Trump should also help put an end to the terrorist group ISIS and to chaos in Syria," said Azer.
Azer said that she hopes Trump will move quickly to restore old strategic relations between Egypt and the United States. "This strategic relationship is necessary for America to win the fight against terrorism in the Middle East," said Azer.
Parliament's Human Rights Committee also issued a statement Wednesday, stating that the election of Trump should not come as a surprise. "This election has clearly shown that the American people have voted against the disastrous policies of (current US president) Barack Obama and his former secretary of state Hillary Clinton," said the committee's chairman Alaa Abed.
Abed accused Obama and Clinton of spending billions of dollars on support for Islamist movements in the Middle East. "They were under false convictions that these movements are moderate and democratic, and in this way they gave them cover to spread their terrorism and poisonous ideology in the Middle East," said Abed.
Abed said the stunning victory of Trump has also exposed the American media's flawed and biased coverage of the election and how it managed to mislead the American people and the world. "Please review the hundreds of flawed anti-Trump reports and opinion polls which the American media published for months, to discover the disgusting reality of this malicious media," said Abed.
Abed also agrees that the newly elected Trump should move quickly to restore strategic relations between Egypt and the US. "If he is really serious about fighting radical Islam, he should win big allies like Egypt," said Abed.
In one of his foreign policy speeches last summer, Trump said he would call for an international conference on terrorism and that King Abdallah of Jordan and President El-Sisi of Egypt would top the list of invitees.
El-Sisi was the only Arab president who met with Trump during his visit to New York to attend UN General Assembly meetings last September. On 19 September and after his meeting with El-Sisi, Trump's political advisor Walid Fares told reporters that Trump assured El-Sisi that he looks forward to restoring strategic relations with Egypt.
Phares also told Egyptian MPs who were visiting America at the time that Trump considers the Muslim Brotherhood a radical movement."There is no problem at all with Trump's administration, in that the Muslim Brotherhood would be designated a terrorist organization," said Phares.
Phares also said that Trump greatly appreciates the Egyptian people's willingness to stand against the Muslim Brotherhood, saving their country from the chaos which hit countries like Syria and Libya.
Abed agrees that Trump's victory represents a big setback to the Muslim Brotherhood. "They were eager to see Clinton become the new president to use it as a tool for exerting pressure on Egypt, but their hopes were seriously dashed," said Abed.
Mostafa Bakri, an independent MP and high-profile journalist, said on his twitter account that the loss of Clinton and the victory of Trump means very bad times for the Muslim Brotherhood and its television mouthpiece "Al-Jazeera."
Other MPs, however, said "Egypt should be cautious in its expectations about Donald Trump."
"I know that some in Egypt are happy and feel optimistic about Trump's victory, but all should be cautious and wait until we see how this new US president will translate his promises into action on the ground," said Tarek El-Khouly, deputy chairman of parliament's foreign relations committee.
El-Khouly, who attended the general assembly meetings in New York last September, said he agrees that President Sisi's meeting with Trump was very positive.
"I agree that there was a kind of love chemistry between the two, and the fact that Trump was keen to meet with El-Sisi should be considered a positive development," said El-Khouly, adding "but I insist that we should not pin exaggerated hopes on Trump because his policies might antagonize the Muslim world in general rather than put an end to political Islam."
Ali Ezz, deputy chairman of Egypt's Information Technology and Telecommunication Committee told reporters that Trump's victory was a big surprise to him. "I was deceived by the American media, but now we see that there was a broad-based rejection of Obama and Clinton in America," said Ezz, adding that "If Trump is serious about fighting terrorism in the Middle East, he should cooperate with strong leaders like El-Sisi and president of Russia Vladimir Putin to stem the tide of political Islam."
Solaf Darwish, a female MP, also agrees that the election of Trump means very bad times ahead for the Muslim Brotherhood. Darwish, who was also in New York last September, said "El-Sisi and Trump's meeting was very positive."
"While Trump told El-Sisi that he wants Egypt to be a big ally of America again, Hilary Clinton showed that she was an extension of the Obama mentality when she tried during the meeting to exert pressure on President El-Sisi by raising issues on human rights and democracy," said Darwish.
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The first trip will start on 5 December
The Chairman of EgyptAir Safwat Mosalam announced that weekly trips between Madrid and the southern city of Luxor are set to begin through Cairo International Airport during the current winter season.
"This comes within the framework of restoring the tourism industry in Egypt, as it is one of the most important sources of national income", Mosalam said in a statement.
The first Madrid-Luxor trip flies from Madrid on 5 December, according to Mosalam.
European travel bans have taken a toll on Egyptian tourism, a key source of hard currency, after a Russian passenger jet crashed over Sinai in October 2015, killing all 224 people on board.
The Egyptian affiliate of the Islamic State militant group claimed responsibility for the crash, saying it had smuggled a bomb on board.
Since the crash, Egypt has been implementing new, tighter security measures at all of its airports.
In October, Egypt's flagship airline announced the resumption of Luxor-London trips, following a one-year suspension of flights between the two destinations.
Earlier this month, the first German flight arrived at Sharm El-Sheikh airport, putting an end to the European country's one-year travel ban to the Red Sea resort city.
German airlines were among several foreign carriers that imposed travel bans on flights to Sharm El-Sheikh after the Russian passenger jet crash.
In recent weeks, a number of foreign airlines have resumed flights to Sharm El-Sheikh airport, including Turkish Airlines and Polish Airlines.
Moscow and Cairo are currently negotiating the resumption of Russian flights to Egypt.
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SIX PEOPLE were hurt, including an off-duty police officer and his wife, in what people called a "flash mob" attack in Center City on Saturday night.
According to police, a small group of juveniles broke off from a large crowd and began attacking people in the area of 16th and Walnut Streets about 6 p.m.
The group first went after a 21-year-old man, police said, which led the off-duty detective to try and intervene. The perpetrators ran away, police said.
Then the detective, whom police did not identify but said was 55 years old, saw two women - ages 20 and 21 - getting kicked by some juveniles. When he attempted to arrest one of them, he was "punched from behind by several unknown persons," police said.
The detective's wife, 50, tried to splash water on the attackers to get them to stop, but she was then punched in the face, police said.
Immediately after that assault, a 28-year-old man was assaulted around the corner, on the 100 block of South 16th Street, police said.
The detective, his wife and the two women were treated at Jefferson Hospital. The detective had an orbital fracture of his right eye; the others suffered minor injuries, police said.
Authorities said two youths, both 16, were arrested. Investigators were looking for surveillance footage to help gather evidence to identify more potential suspects.
Two weeks ago, four teens were arrested in a similar "flash mob" incident near Temple University's main campus in North Philadelphia. That attack, which included as many as 150 juveniles, left at least one student hospitalized amid wide-ranging violence that police said included rocks being thrown at cars and a police horse being punched.
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Egyptian poet Abdel-Rahman Youssef has been sentenced in absentia by a Cairo court on Monday to three years in prison on charges of spreading false news and inciting against government institutions during his program on theTurkey-based Al-Wattan channel.
Youssef, a one-time TV anchor on the Egyptian CBC channel, is known for his support for the 2011 revolution which ousted Hosni Mubarak.
He is the son of Qatari-based Islamist cleric Youssef El-Qaradawi, a staunch supporter of the now-outlawed Muslim Brotherhood, who has been convicted in Egypt of inciting against the government.
Youssef, however, has frequently criticised both his father and the Brotherhood.
He left Egypt after the ouster of Islamist president Mohamed Morsi in 2013.
Several political, media figures and journalists have been arrested and sentenced over the past several years on charges of spreading false news.
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What happened after we got scammed by taxi in Hong Kong?
It is a year after we got scammed and overcharged by a taxi in Hong Kong. It happened last year when we (my mother and I) took a taxi in Harbour City to go back to our hotel near Lan Kwai Foong. The taxi told us there will be additional charges after 9 pm. He covered his license with a newspaper and stopped his car and went down to open his boot so we couldnt capture his license plate. You can read the whole ordeal at How we get cheated by taxi in Hong Kong.
Yes, even for a seasonal traveller like me got scammed but since I was with my mother, safety first. The story didnt end there. Some of our Hong Kong friends advised us to report online at http://www.info.gov.hk/tcu/taxi/. Many of my friends said Hong Kong is a lawful city and taxi drivers wouldnt harm the passengers. It is quite true until this happened recently, Hong Kong policeman dragged by taxi while trying to arrest cabbie for overcharging. So we did the right thing for not confronting the taxi driver at that moment? Who knows what can he do?
After the incident, we emailed to http://www.info.gov.hk/tcu/taxi/ and we thought thats it. However, they responded and the case was referred to Hong Kong police. They made a police report on our behalf and our case now is up to the Hong Kong police.
The story didnt end there. A couple of weeks after our case was referred to police, we received a call from Hong Kong. A police officer from Hong Kong actually called me up.
He apologised to us as he told us they didnt have enough evidence to find the taxi scammer. Thus, he said the Hong Kong police will do their best to arrest overcharging cabbies. You can tell they really did their job like the article we shared earlier. We had a lengthy chat with the police officer as he told us how he enjoyed fishing in Sabah and he loved to travel to Malaysia.
Even though the Hong Kong police didnt manage to catch the culprit but we were glad how our case was handled. It was really very professional for the Hong Kong police to call us to explain the whole situation. Their complaint system really works and we were impressed. Where in the world, a police will actually call you for just a taxi scamming case? Probably only in Hong Kong.
Our taxi scamming case is quite isolated as we met many really good taxi drivers after that. Just remember there is no additional charges during night time or midnight. For the complete Taxi Fares structure, you can refer to http://www.td.gov.hk/en/transport_in_hong_kong/public_transport/taxi/taxi_fare_of_hong_kong/
We hope you can learn something from our taxi scamming ordeal in Hong Kong. Like we mentioned earlier, not all taxi drivers are bad but we were just unlucky. We learnt our lesson and we will be more alert while taking taxis anywhere in the world. We still love Hong Kong.
Wilson Ng A Father and traveler who enjoys to eat, shop, travel and taking pictures with Samsung S22 Ultra and Sony ZV-1. Im a full time blogger, youtuber and father for two. I used to travel around 17 International trips per year but now staying at home. Remember to follow us at www.instagram.com/placesandfoods and www.youtube.com/placesandfoods. For advertisements or features, contact me at [email protected] See author's posts
Two Boise, ID, police officers and a K9 were wounded in a gunfight with a wanted suspect Friday night. The suspect was killed.
One officer, who has not been identified, was shot multiple times and remains hospitalized. The Boise Police Department said late Sunday he is showing slight improvements daily in his condition, he faces a long and hard path forward. Police Chief Bill Bones told the Idaho Statesman that the officer, a 17-year veteran, faces months of recovery.
A second officer, Cpl. Chris Davis of the departments Special Operations Unit, was shot once during the Friday incident. Davis was released Saturday from Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center. Bones said Davis is expected to make a quick and full recovery.
K9 Jardo was also wounded in the attack. He was shot through the chest and lost a lung, Bones said. He was treated and released Saturday from WestVet Veterinary Clinic.
Suspect Marco Luis Romero was killed in the gunfight.
The suspect in the shootout, Marco Luis Romero, died at the scene. Davis and
Police received a citizen tip Friday afternoon, saying a person believed to be Romero was spotted in a car that had been reported carjacked. A second report came in minutes later.
Officers later found the suspect walking down the street. He took off running through the neighborhood. Officers secured the area, and the Special Operations Unit came to search the area.
Shots rang out after police encountered the suspect, who had been hiding. Neighbors reported hearing at least 10 shots.
Romero was released from prison and placed on supervised parole Oct. 3 after serving time for convictions in 2010 and 2012 Ada County cases for possession of a controlled substance and a 2012 case for leaving the scene of an accident resulting in an injury, also in Ada County.
Police had been searching for Romero since Tuesday, after Meridian police said they believed he shot a man and woman.
The two victims, who are both 29, were known to Romero. The woman was shot once in the chest and may be paralyzed. The man was shot twice and is expected to be OK.
A vigil is planned for the hospitalized officer at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Idaho Peace Officers Memorial, at the Idaho State Police headquarters, 700 S. Stratford Drive in Meridian.
By late Monday morning, a GoFundMe account set up by the local Fraternal Order of Police had collected nearly $35,000 to assist the officer.
Donations to the Fraternal Order of Police, Treasure Valley Lodge #11 Benevolent Fund, can be made at branches of Mountain West Bank. They can also be mailed to the group at P.O. Box 642, Meridian, ID 83680.
A police officer who was ambushed and shot multiple times in his patrol car in downtown Anchorage early Saturday was in stable condition Sunday night.
The officer, whose name has not been released, underwent two surgeries for "multiple gunshot wounds" on Saturday, said Anchorage Police Department spokeswoman Jennifer Castro. On Sunday, he was recovering in a local hospital, she said.
The suspect in Saturday's incident was killed in gunfire from police. Police are still trying to notify his next-of-kin, and no name had been released as of Sunday night, the Alaska Dispatch News reports.
The incident is the second time in a month an Alaska police officer has been taken by surprise by gunshots as they were arriving at a call. It has unsettled police ranks already on edge, said Sgt. Gerard Asselin, the president of the Anchorage Police Department Employees Association.
The government has been using a variety of medicines to completely eliminate the wide-spread disease from the country, with much success
The Administrative Prosecution Authority has called on Prime Minister Sherif Ismail on Monday to act to distribute more than 50,000 packets of hepatitis C medication before the drugs expire.
Investigations by the authority revealed the failure of the state-owned Egyptian Pharmaceutical Trading Company to distribute stocks of the treatment, Klatzev, worth EGP 68 million, according to the prosecution.
The expiry date of the packets are March, May, and June of 2017.
The investigation revealed that the state-owned company had purchased large quantities of Klatzev from a US producer worth EGP 118 million, but has not made all of it available to the public.
Ali Rizk, the head of the Administrative Prosecution, told reporters that the cabinet should distribute all of the cure before its expiry date to prevent squandering of public funds.
Egypt has one of the highest prevalence rates of the virus in the world, according to the World Health Organisation.
Some 15 million Egyptians - out of a population of 91 million - suffer from the infection, or around 22 percent of the population, according to 2015 statistics.
The Health Ministry has recently said it achieved 96 percent cure rate of hepatitis C through intense efforts in the past two years using a variety of medicines.
The ministry vowed to completely eliminate the disease by 2021.
The WHO has praised Egypt`s recent efforts to control the virus, including the subsidisation of new treatments.
"Egypt has a become an example to follow all over the world, not only for giving hope to combat the disease but also for concerted efforts in a national action plan that includes protection through raising the societal awareness of the ways of infection of the virus and means of treatment, providing medicine for patients, follow-up and continued evaluation of the action plan," the organisation's director general, Margaret Chan, said in a statement last month.
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*The following is an opinion column by R Muse*
Its an eight-year-old story by now, but it bears repeating. Many ignorant and profoundly naive Americans actually thought racism was expunged from the population because a majority of the people elected an African American man to be their President in 2008. By now everyone except the conservatives on the Supreme Court realize that President Obamas election brought the raging racial animus toward all people of color out in the open and gave white supremacist hate groups a newfound raisin detre; and a priceless recruitment tool to grow their ranks quickly.
After nearly eight years, those white supremacists found they had a racist champion running for the presidency and after 56-million other dirty white supremacists helped groups like the Ku Klux Klan put the man of their dreams in the White House there is an inspired, emboldened and grateful group of racists celebrating and thanking the people that contributed to Americas march toward repeating the atrocities of 1930s Germany. And no, this column knows better than to make a comparison between the fascist American racists just voted for and the fascist responsible for World War II. It is never too late to begin conditioning oneself for the impending abolition of the 1st Amendments freedom of speech or the press.
It was not too surprising that the Ku Klux Klan is planning to celebrate the election of a racist as president by organizing a victory parade. A well-publicized parade is a newsworthy public form of gratitude to the American people who collectively took an important first step towards transforming the United States into an Aryan Christian paradise. What was slightly surprising was who first person an avowed racist and former Grand Wizard of the KKK thanked after losing his bid for the United States Senate.
Whatever disappointment he experienced at being rejected by voters, because David Duke is a dirty racist and white supremacist, was overshadowed by the ultimate thrill of learning that a fellow racist, white supremacist, and fascist had won the election for the White House. However, as reported by Snopes, the first person David Duke expressed heartfelt gratitude to was not his fellow racists in the Klan or the so-called alt-right Nazis for their hard work and valuable assistance during the long Trump campaign, or the official KKK newspaper for a ringing endorsement for the racist Republicans chose to best represent the Party and the American peoples character. No, the first person David Duke thanked was a foreigner (Australian) and a sexual predator like the fascist candidate and the man Harry Reid called a sexual predator that racist Duke supported and Assange helped install in the White House.
David Duke thanked Julian Assange for his hard work for the Trump campaign, but he stopped short of extending any gratitude to Russian Vladimir Putin. Everyone under the Sun, including Snopes, has reported that the Russian administration officials were in constant contact with the highest ranking members of the Trump campaign according to the Kremlins deputy foreign minister. It is possible that David Duke is awaiting permission from the Trump campaign to officially thank Vladimir Putin, or he may have thanked Putin privately. The FBI likely knows about how the Trump campaign communicated with the Russians, but it is probably still too close to the election for James Comey to cast aspersions on Republican Trump.
David Duke reacted so jubilantly to the electoral victory of Donald Trump that he couldnt wait until the day after the election and followed his racist heros lead in taking to the Twitter to express his gratitude to a foreigner interfering in American elections. Duke praised the Wikileaks founder Assange and claimed that his Christian god should bless the foreign sexual predator and then informed Americans that,
Julian Assange is a hero -> America owes this man one thing -> FREEDOM!!!
Duke claims the document-dumping web site helped Trump clinch the U.S. presidency, and along with the Breitbart cabal is calling for Assanges full pardon the instant the fascist he helped elect is sworn in office as president. Maybe in due time David Duke and the racist Breitbart clan will call on Trump to grant Putin a position in the State Department or some other Cabinet level position for Russias part in hacking into the DNC server and handing the stolen goods over to another foreigner working to prevent Hillary Clinton from winning the election. Of course one has to couch any idea of implicating Russia because the FBI director says it is too close to the election to cast aspersion on the Republican standard bearers political ambitions, and too close to inauguration day to incur the wrath of the anti-free speech con man threatening retribution against free speech he doesnt like.
There are myriad outrages in this story including an avowed white supremacist celebrating the election of a racist to the presidency, and then thanking a foreigner and sexual predator for helping that racist sexual predator win the election. And then there is the minor detail of the foreigner receiving the gratitude because he received stolen American property allegedly lifted by another foreign government lusting to see the racist elected as its voice in the White House. However outrageous all of that is, and damn it is unbelievably outrageous, there is the certainty that nothing will come of it because the nations top domestic law enforcement agency thinks investigating or reporting on a Republican too close to an election is forbidden.
Many have commented that America is going to undergo a nasty transformation, and the only thing wrong with that statement is the tense. America is already knee-deep in change when a racist is headed to the Oval Office and he has two foreign entities to thank for the prize. In the meantime, Trump surrogate and filthy white supremacist David Duke did the Donald a big solid by thanking foreigner Julian Assange for his campaign assistance that will likely earn him a presidential pardon; particularly since the racists in the Breitbart camp have the ear of the racist heading to the White House.
*The criticism in this column is the sole opinion of the author.*
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Vice President-elect Mike Pence has gone to court to make sure that the American people never get to see the emails that he wrote as governor of Indiana.
According to the Indianapolis Star, Mike Pence is going to court to argue that all of his emails should not be made public:
Now that the presidential campaign and most of the furor over Hillary Clintons email scandal are behind us, the Pence administration is going to court to argue for its own brand of email secrecy.
The administration is fighting to conceal the contents of an email sent to Gov. Mike Pence by a political ally. That email is being sought by a prominent Democratic labor lawyer who says he wants to expose waste in the Republican administration.
The Mike Pence who is going to court to argue that his emails should remain a secret is the same guy who just spent months on the presidential campaign trail campaigning against Hillary Clinton because she used a private email server. Clinton also did something that Pence is fighting not to do. She released her emails to the public.
Hypocrisy will be the norm in the Trump/Pence administration, but the bigger question is what is Mike Pence hiding? Why doesnt Pence want the American people to see his emails?
Both Trump and Pence favor increasing spying on American citizens, and less transparency for themselves. The incoming administration is destined to be the least transparent in US history. They are also going to going to not respect the privacy of the American people.
Mike Pence claimed that Hillary Clintons emails were criminal, but he wont let you see whats in his emails.
Instead of draining the swamp, voters have filled it with more dangerous predators.
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According to Fox News contributor Pete Hegseth, Trump protesters are anti-Semites: These are Communists. These are anarchists. Theyre anti-Semitic. Yes, apparently only anarchists want the person who wins the popular vote to be the winner of the election. What a crazy, anti-democratic idea!
.@PeteHegseth on forces behind protests: "These are Communists. These are anarchists. They're anti-Semitic." pic.twitter.com/DknJNzdb7A Fox News (@FoxNews) November 13, 2016
In light of Donald Trump appointing a prominent anti-Semite to his White House staff, Hegseths accusation that Trump protesters are anti-Semitic sounds more than a little hollow. Perhaps he realizes how well projection worked for Trump (and has worked for Fox News in the past) and figured now was a good time to accuse protesters of being guilty of what amounts to supporting Trump.
What is remarkable is that this is coming from the same network that sent out this tweet in defense of that anti-Semite, Steve Bannon:
BANNON BACKLASH: Priebus defends Trump's call to keep fiery Breitbart boss in inner circle https://t.co/H0oJsUVYyN pic.twitter.com/CHcx3EsKb2 Fox News (@FoxNews) November 14, 2016
Look, nobody ever said todays conservatism made any kind of sense. Reality has become such a chaotic mish-mash of conflicting ideas over the past eight years that we would honestly be surprised if anything Hegseth said made sense. Rebellions may be built on hope, but theres hope and then theres plain wishful thinking.
The Republican Party and Fox News both are lost to the world of reality and fact. The swim in uncharted seas, a realm where wishful thinking has power and facts do not, where an America that never was is more compelling than the America of history.
Just look at reactions to Hegseths claim, nonsense such as Not going to happen he won fair and square and no amount of protesting is going to change that. of course, Trump did not win fair and square thanks to voter suppression, and in fact, he didnt win at all, as Hillary Clinton carried the popular vote.
You cant stop the stupid folks, but you can fight it.
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We are facing the very real possibility of seeing right-wing radio host Laura Ingraham becoming White House press secretary. This is the Laura Ingraham who says the Republican Party belongs To Trump now.
In many ways, with her obvious devotion to authoritarianism, she is a perfect choice. Trump obviously feels the GOP belongs to him now too. And she has the salute of the new American Reich down pat, as you can see. And likes Joseph Goebbels, she hates to see anything negative said about the leader of her particular hate movement.
According to The Hill, Trump appreciated Ingrahams loyalty through the campaign. A former white-collar defense attorney and Supreme Court law clerk, Ingraham helped Trump with debate preparation. She also campaigned on his behalf and offered occasional strategic advice.
With the possible exceptions of Sean Hannity, Ann Coulter and Breitbart, no media figure or outlet did more to promote Trumps candidacy than Ingraham.
She used her profile as a Fox News contributor, her nationally syndicated radio show and her website LifeZette.com to advocate on his behalf. Trump also tapped into Ingrahams years of dirt-digging on the Clintons to sharpen his attacks on the Democratic nominee.
Ingraham would not comment for this article. A source familiar told The Hill that shes in contact with people in Trumps inner circle and has expressed interest in the role.
The president-elect and his inner circle hold Ingraham in the highest esteem. They view her as tough, admire her rhetorical skills, and believe shed powerfully convey Trumps anti-establishment message.
Megyn Kelly certainly blew her chance. Kellys problem, of course, is that she does not like 100 percent of the time, and made the mistake of not submitting, like a woman should, to the Trump whatever it is his followers see (and are somehow not repelled by).
The problems with Laura Ingraham are many. Any views which do not agree with her own racist views are toxic and revile the American experience. We can only assume by this she means the KKK experience. A long-time critic of immigration reform, called Puerto Ricans immigrants rather than citizens.
More recently, she complained it was convenient that CNN feed dropped during Trump visit to black church when in fact Trump kicked the media out of the church.
Should she get the job, a gig as White House propaganda chiefer, press secretary, is sure to be a fun-filled, fact-free excursion into the GOPs imaginary reality for the most dishonest president in American history.
Be of good cheer. It could be worse. It could be Sarah Palins word salad afflicting us instead. At least we will understand what Ingraham is saying, even if it is still total bull excrement.
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*The following is an opinion column by R Muse*
There was little doubt that white males, particularly white Christian males, were going to vote heavily for a misogynistic loudmouth authoritarian like Donald Trump to be their fascist leader. As Dr. George Lakoff explained in the brilliant book The Political Mind and other works, conservatives, particularly weak-minded faith-dependent conservatives, require a strong daddy figure to tell them what and more importantly how to think, tell them what they really want and need to do, and tell them that only he can make their miserable wretched lives worth living. In turn, the brain-addled frightened conservative duly serves the man-god without due regard to their own self-interests; because those interests are defined by the daddy figure they handed control of their pathetic lives over to.
One expects more from women; particularly from American women. However, the recent election proves that no matter the high regard one might have for American women, at least half of women voters who ticked the box next to Trumps name are just as frightened, just as weak-minded, and just as man-dependent for life direction as their male counterparts; and now they have a misogynist daddy authority who will decide what they need, what they want and decide if and when they get anything. To make matters worse, they gave clearly bizarre reasons for willingly voting for the man who will hand religious Republicans a legislative rubber stamp to put women precisely where the religious right and Donald Trump want them; under religious white mens thumbs where the bible says they belong.
Now, everyone and their pet canary understands why women ensconced in the religious right voted for a misogynistic daddy figure; they suffer from Stockholm Syndrome. For the uninformed, that particular affliction describes prisoners who get so accustomed to being tormented and tortured that they embrace their captors mindset and offer their assistance to punish other prisoners. As noted here, evangelical women who are stuck in torment and forced to submit to a mans demands without even a whimper believe that all women should share their torment and pathetic fate. And, absent the power and authority to force other women to be in servitude to men, any men, the Syndrome sufferers simply help elect religious Republican men who force biblical subjective compliance by government fiat.
However, reports are that half of all women who cast a vote chose Donald Trump as their champion and interestingly when NPR looked into why, and what kind of woman would vote for a misogynist, they gave a reason that many voters, male and female, gave for opting to put a fascist in the White House. In particular, the NPR interviewers picked out two women to interview because they didnt fit the ignorant Trump voter profile, but they gave the ignorant voter reason for choosing Trump; the country is going in the wrong direction.
Now, two of the women cited in the radio broadcast were successful in business and were not in thrall to evangelical fundamentalism, so their comment could not be driven by the bible. But both claimed they opted for Trump over Hillary Clinton; not out of animus for the candidate who actually won the most votes, but because Trump had the right genitalia, is a business man, and was the only candidate willing and capable of turning the country around and heading it in the right direction. Seriously, and these women were not outliers. It leads one to wonder how they could possibly be successful in life, much less business while being so inherently stupid. Lets face it, any American who thinks the country is going in the wrong direction is not only stupid, they are either insane or they want the nation to fail and its people to suffer; especially other women.
So, for the women who voted for Trump, it is apparent that American women controlling their own reproductive health and making their own medical decisions are the country going in the wrong direction. Democrats pushing to enact legislation so women earn the same wage as a man doing the same job is also the country going in the wrong direction. Those women also certainly believe that equal protections for women in the workplace are also the country going in the wrong direction.
Unfortunately for America, and the women who dont require a man to think for them, Trumps ladies will get their wish and the country is now on pace to go in the opposite direction because those women helped install the religious rights and conservative patriarchs rubber stamp in the Oval Office; he will make sure women are put right in the place evangelicals want them. If the women are really lucky and the Trump supporters, male and female, get their wish, Republicans will really take the country in the right direction and eliminate womens right to vote; that should really please Trumps women complaining about the nations direction.
Now, one can even understand Trumps women wanting to roll back womens rights for everyone else thinking that Republicans or the daddy will never abridge their rights; even highly educated people can be naive. But women, any woman, cannot seriously want the nation abandoning the economic policies that not only saved the nation from a Great Recession, they created economic growth and jobs the business women NPR interviewed benefited from. But they still said it was the wrong direction and they want change immediately.
What that means to smart women is that solid economic growth is the country going in the wrong direction. It also means that a rapidly declining deficit, historically lower taxes, and a historical record of job creation is the country going in the wrong direction. Median income rose over 5 percent for Americans for the first time in two decades, but that too is a sign the country is going in the wrong direction to women supporting Trump. 22 million more Americans have healthcare insurance than a few years ago, but to women Trump supporters that means the country going in the wrong direction. Wages are climbing across the nation, particularly in left-leaning states, but that too is something that has to be reversed because it means the country going in the wrong direction.
More Americans are able to enjoy their Constitutional equal rights than ever before, but even that is a sign the countrys going in the wrong direction according to Trump supporters. More Americans are reaping the benefits of cheaper energy due to efforts to combat climate change with clean and renewable energy, but that is the country going in the wrong direction. And President Obama has been called the deportation president for deporting a record number of undocumented immigrants, but that is the wrong direction too?
This bizarre idea that the country is going in the wrong direction was an oft-repeated claim by nearly every human being this author used to know and that includes women who are successful in business and the workplace and are not religious or racist. One has a fairly good idea where they heard the country is going in the wrong direction and it didnt come from Hillary Clinton or any Democrat or anyone with healthcare insurance for the first time, or anyone now employed or making higher wages; it came from religious Republicans and the authoritarian daddy figure they voted for to take the country in the opposite direction it has been going. Half the women voters who chose Trump as their daddy figure may not be deep in the throes of Stockholm Syndrome yet, but by embracing his bovine excrement lies as fact means they are a step away from helping identify the women they know did not support daddy so the religious right misogyny police can target them for special torment evangelicals and Donald Trump believe they deserve.
Iran urges nuclear co-operation with Hungary
Iran has called for civilian nuclear co-operation with Hungary, semi-official Fars news agency reported on Saturday.
The two countries can co-operate in various sectors of the civilian nuclear energy applications
, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in a meeting with the visiting Hungarian Parliament Speaker Laszlo Kover in the capital Tehran.Rouhani also urged Hungarian investors and companies to partake in Iran's industrial and agricultural projects.Kover arrived in Tehran on Wednesday night to hold talks with senior Iranian officials, at the invitation of Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani.Kover expressed his country's determination to strengthen co-operation with Iran, saying
Hungary is fully ready to expand its co-operation with Tehran, particularly in economic fields, and this will no doubt benefit the two countries.
Similar views on terrorism
He stressed that Hungary is ready to co-operate with Iran in the nuclear energy field.Iran began the construction of a USD 10 billion nuclear power plant, with Russian help, in the southern port city of Bushehr, official IRNA news agency reported in September.The construction is expected to be completed in ten years. The two countries agreed on building two nuclear power plants, and according to IRNA, the construction of the second one will be launched in 2018.The new power plant is part of a plan to develop Iran's first commercial nuclear reactor Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, the report said.Tehran and Budapest share similar views on terrorism and the necessity for fighting against the terrorist groups, Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani said after meeting with his Hungarian counterpart Laszlo Kover, FNA said in a separate report."A part of our negotiations focused on the regional situation and the terrorism crisis which has exacerbated in recent years," Larijani told reporters in a joint press conference with Kover in Tehran on Saturday."The two countries enjoy highly similar views about the ugly phenomenon of terrorism," he added.Larijani said that during his meeting with Kover, the two sides also discussed bilateral issues and underscored the necessity for bolstering the two countries' relations in economic, investment, energy, environmental, academic and cultural fields.
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Thad Moore is a reporter on The Post and Couriers Watchdog and Public Service team and a graduate of the University of South Carolina. To share tips securely, reach Moore via ProtonMail at thadmoore@protonmail.com or on Signal at 843-214-6576.
Parliament speaker Ali Abdel-Al told MPs that any new law should go in line with the constitution rather than serve foreign agendas; parliament postpones debate until cabinet presents its own draft
Egypt's parliament provisionally approved on Monday a draft law aimed at regulating the performance of NGOs.
The 89-article law was drafted by the chairman of parliament's social solidarity committee Abdel-Hadi El-Qasabi and 203 other MPs.
El-Qasabi said that MPs has decided not to wait until a cabinet-drafted law on NGOs is submitted to parliament.
"We decided to take the initiative in drafting a law on NGOs and opening a debate on it," said El-Qasabi, adding that the draft law includes two chapters on foreign NGOs.
Parliament speaker Ali Abdel-Al told MPs in a plenary session on Monday that "NGOs can be a blessing or a curse."
"They can be a blessing if their business is confined to raising the awareness of citizens, spreading the culture of democracy and contributing to development in society," said Abdel-Al.
"They can be a curse if they move to spread chaos, disrupt national security and serve personal interests."
Abdel-Al said that parliament should take its time in debating the articles of the new law to guarantee that they are in line with the constitution and international conventions in a way that does not allow NGOs to operate at the expense of national security.
"We will not accept any kind of pressure from inside or outside [the country]," said Abdel-Al, adding that "Egypt's parliament was democratically elected and it stands firm against any pressure."
Abdel-Al said that Israel, which the West likes to describe as the oasis of democracy in the Middle East, has issued a new NGO law that has imposed tough restrictions on foreign funding.
"The prime minister of this country has said that he will not allow any source of foreign funding that might harm his country's national security," said Abdel-Al.
El-Qasabi said NGOs and civil society organisations sent parliament a letter where they denied that NGOs are used as a cover for obtaining corrupt money that can be used as a weapon against ordinary Egyptian citizens and disrupting the country's national security.
"We do not accept [the suggestion] that corrupt people with foreign agendas and with personal interests speak on our behalf," El-Qasabi cited the letter from NGOs as saying.
One of the most controversial articles in the draft law stipulates that foreign NGOs looking to operate in Egypt must get prior approval from a regulatory body entitled the National NGO Apparatus.
Any NGO found guilty of receiving foreign funding without prior approval will be dissolved.
"NGOs should work towards the public interest and their money should not be used in any political activities such as funding parliamentary candidates or political parties, inciting hatred and disseminating sectarian tension or disrupting national security," said El-Qasabi.
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Magdi El-Agati told speaker Abdel-Al that Minister of Social Solidarity Ghada Wali has contacted him by phone to ask that the debate on the draft NGO law be postponed.
El-Agati said the government-drafted NGO law was approved by the cabinet at the end of October and referred to parliament on 2 November.
"Although MPs have the right of legislation, I urge you to wait until the government draft is also discussed," said El-Agati.
In response, speaker Abdel-Al said that "parliament has the right to discuss the two NGO drafts and the government has the right to comment on parliament's draft and ask for amendments."
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All of us have local and national issues that we worry about: gender-related and race-related issues, education and social welfare issues, pump prices and what to do about Confederate monuments. Thats usually how we vote whats worrying us at the moment. But older adults, of all people, may be capable of standing back from whats in our face to take a longer perspective on politics. Read moreAging for Amateurs: Elections make us get clear on priorities
Sports Reporter
Derrek Asberry is sports reporter with the Post and Courier. He joined the newsroom in March 2016, after three years at the Aiken Standard where he covered the Savannah River Site. He enjoys New York Yankee baseball and poker.
Paul Bowers is an education reporter and father of three living in North Charleston. He previously worked at the Charleston City Paper, where he was twice named South Carolina Journalist of the Year in the weekly category.
Maya T. Prabhu covers the Statehouse from Columbia. She previously covered city government and other topics in South Carolina and Maryland. Maya has a bachelors in English from Spelman College and a masters in journalism from the University of Maryland.
Syndicated and guest columns represent the personal views of the writers, not necessarily those of the editorial staff. The editorial department operates entirely independently of the news department and is not involved in newsroom operations.
US Secretary of State John Kerry arrived Monday in Muscat, Omani state media said, for talks expected to focus on efforts to end Yemen's 19-month conflict.
ONA news agency said Kerry will be in the Gulf sultanate for two days, in one of his last trips as secretary of state before President Barack Obama's administration ends on January 20.
He is scheduled to hold talks on Monday with Oman's Foreign Minister Yusuf bin Alawi and to meet ruler Sultan Qaboos.
Kerry has been pushing for a settlement of Yemen's deadly conflict, which escalated with the military intervention of a Saudi-led coalition to support the government against Iran-backed Huthi rebels in March 2015.
Oman, one of the few Arab states which have good relations with Iran, has used its links to mediate peace talks between the insurgents and Yemen's UN-recognised government of president Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi.
It is also the only Arab nation in the Gulf not part of the Saudi-led coalition, although it maintains good relations with regional powerhouse Saudi Arabia.
More than 7,000 people have been killed and nearly 37,000 wounded in Yemen since March 2015, and the UN says millions are in need of food aid.
Another 21 million people urgently need health services, according to the UN health agency.
After Oman, Kerry will travel to Abu Dhabi for talks on regional conflicts, including Syria.
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Electric vehicles arent a panacea. They dont reduce traffic congestion or the need to spend billions of dollars repairing and expanding our highways, the way mass transit, ride sharing and more walkable and bicycleable communities can. To the contrary, they make it more difficult to pay for the necessary upgrades, because despite some modest steps, politicians here and elsewhere have been unwilling to change our tax laws to ensure that vehicles using little or no gasoline pay their fair share for those improvements. Read moreEditorial: SC electric vehicle expansion helps state in multiple ways
Dodge County
EDA discusses Main Street building
WEST CONCORD Members of the West Concord EDA discussed the future of the 207 W. Main St. building at its Nov. 7 meeting.
The EDA chose to table any discussion on moving forward with the sale of the building. The potential buyers of the space will wait until the issue is discussed at next month's EDA meeting, according to members of the body.
Houston County
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Clinic grand opening set for Saturday
CALEDONIA Gundersen Lutheran will host a grand opening for the new orthopedic clinic Saturday at 8 a.m. It is at 405 S. Highway 44/76.
Fillmore County
Service focuses on 'Beauty of the Earth'
LENORA The historic Lenora United Methodist Church will hold a Thanksgiving worship service Sunday at 4 p.m.
It will focus on themes in the hymn "For the Beauty of the Earth." Attendees are invited to bring nonperishable food items for the food shelf.
Refreshments will be served at the Lenora Fellowship House after the service.
The church is on Fillmore County Road 24 in Lenora.
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Mower County
Three blood drives planned
AUSTIN There are three upcoming blood drives in Mower County.
The first is 1 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Southland High School in Adams. The second is 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday at Riverland Community College in Austin. The third is 1 to 7 p.m. Nov. 29 at Mower County Senior Citizens Center in Austin.
To make an appointment to give blood, download the Red Cross App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-REDCROSS.
Wabasha County
Black and Orange Gala will be Saturday
LAKE CITYThe Lake City Education Foundation will hold the Black and Orange Gala on Saturday at St. Mary of the Lake.
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There will be hors d'oeuvres, drinks and dessert. Tickets cost $50 and are available at lakecityeducationfoundation.org or by calling 225-993-6706.
Goodhue County
Levee Road construction underway
RED WING Concrete work on Levee Road from the Jackson Street Roundabout to Broad Street is ongoing this week.
To facilitate the concrete repair work in the roundabout, the Levee Road/Jackson Street Roundabout will be closed until Friday, depending on weather and site conditions.
Levee Road will be open from Broad Street up to the roundabout (including access to boat houses and the parking lot east of the roundabout) during the concrete repair work.
Access to Bay Point Park also will be open using Levee Road and Withers Harbor Road west of the roundabout.
Winona County
Cabin Coffee celebrates anniversary
ST. CHARLES Cabin Coffee in St. Charles is celebrating its nine-year anniversary Thursday.
Coffee will be 90 cents, fresh-roasted beans will be 20 percent off and all drinks are 20 percent off between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. There also will be door prizes and free samples all day.
Cabin Coffee is on U.S. Highway 14 in St. Charles.
Prosecutor in police shooting to enter alcohol program
MINNEAPOLIS The prosecutor whose office won a recent conviction in the high-profile case of a Minneapolis police officer who killed an unarmed woman says he will be entering a treatment program for alcohol issues.
Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman issued a statement Friday saying he was evaluated for alcohol issues and agrees he needs treatment. Hell be entering a program Monday.
Freeman announced last week that he was taking a medical leave, but didnt say why.
His Friday statement says he has also worked to stabilize his "unacceptably high blood pressure." He says hes determined to reclaim his health and hopes to be back to work in mid-June.
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Last month, a jury convicted Mohamed Noor of murder in the 2017 fatal shooting of Justine Ruszczyk Damond, a dual citizen of the U.S. and Australia who called 911 to report a possible crime.
Minnesota seeks to add Purdue Pharma owners to opioid suit
ST. PAUL Minnesotas attorney general is asking a state court for permission to add the owners of drugmaker Purdue Pharma to a lawsuit that seeks to hold the company responsible for the opioid addiction crisis.
Connecticut-based Purdue Pharma makes OxyContin and has been the subject of legal action in nearly every state.
Attorney General Keith Ellison wants to add eight members of the Sackler family to Minnesotas lawsuit. He says the Sacklers, who own and operate Purdue, were involved in deceptive marketing tactics and strategies to sell more opioids, despite knowing the risks.
If a judge approves, Minnesota would become at least the 11th state to take legal action against one or more members of the Sackler family.
A family spokeswoman issued a statement denying the allegations, calling the lawsuit a misguided attempt to place blame where it doesnt belong.
Man holed up in hotel surrenders to police
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BROOKLYN PARK Authorities say a standoff at a Brooklyn Park hotel ended after more than six hours when a man suspected of assaulting his girlfriend surrendered to police.
SWAT officers and crisis negotiators were called to the La Quinta Inn early Friday after a woman reported she was being assaulted by her boyfriend and threatened with a gun. Police say the standoff began at 3:30 a.m. and ended when the man was arrested at about 9:50 a.m.
Authorities say the woman was taken to a hospital with minor injuries. Police say the 31-year-old suspect was not carry9ing a gun but it was unclear if there were any weapons in the room.
The suspect, who has not been formally charged, has previous convictions for drug possession, motor vehicle theft, aggravated robbery, making terroristic threats, drunken driving and burglary.
Jail inmate accused of running prostitution ring
MORA An inmate at the Kanabec County Jail is charged with running a prostitution ring from his cell.
Thirty-eight-year-old Daniel Ellington is charged in Washington County District Court with two counts of sex trafficking and two counts of promotion of prostitution.
Prosecutors say Ellington communicated with a prostitute by text and "promoted and profited" from her activities in Woodbury last month.
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East Metro Sex Trafficking Task Force director Imran Ali says Ellington was 100 miles away and incarcerated, yet was promoting prostitution and profiting from it. The task force began investigating after a Woodbury detective found an online ad entitled "Blonde Bombshell."
The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports Kanabec County Sheriff Brian Smith says Ellington used a jail-issued iPod to text and paid a certain price for each message.
Associated Press
ST. PAUL Change is coming to health coverage in Minnesota, but until Donald Trump takes office and reveals how he and the Republican-controlled Congress plan to overhaul or replace the Affordable Care Act, it's unclear what that change will look like.
A repeal or replacement of the health law could pose problems for the more than 1 million Minnesota residents on public programs and could dismantle the state and federal health insurance exchanges. Meanwhile, the Republicans who now control both chambers of the Minnesota Legislature are plotting their own health care changes as all Minnesota officials remain mostly in the dark.
"We have really no idea what form it will take," Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton said Friday.
Minnesota's health care system stands out across the nation for reasons good and bad. Not only did the state set up its own health insurance exchange and expand the low-income health care program Medicaid, but Minnesota offers another subsidized program called MinnesotaCare for those who make too much to qualify for Medicaid, which is called Medical Assistance in Minnesota. But premium rates for individuals who buy insurance on their own are set to jump as much as 67 percent next year, the fourth-largest increase in the nation.
Emboldened by taking control of the Legislature after campaigning on those high costs, Minnesota Republicans won't necessarily wait for the federal government to act before they start making changes. House Speaker Kurt Daudt has called it a mandate.
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Rep. Matt Dean, a Dellwood Republican and leader on health care issues, faulted MinnesotaCare for exacerbating the high costs that have driven up rates House Republicans tried to axe that program in 2015. Dean said Minnesota should replace the Affordable Care Act with its old approach, a high-risk pool to cover ill and expensive consumers who previously couldn't get health insurance.
He said the old model could serve as a guide for Trump as he and Congress consider how to fix the Affordable Care Act. But in the meantime, Dean said Minnesota should dump MNsure and move to the federal exchange.
"I think we need to kill it and bury it and move on," he said, echoing other leaders in both the state House and Senate. "The sooner the better."
Allison O'Toole, MNsure's chief executive, is assuring consumers that no matter what happens, the health plans they select for 2017 are guaranteed through the end of that year. She said the exchange is focused on signing up enrollees for coverage through open enrollment 22,000 Minnesota residents who aren't covered by employers or public programs had purchased coverage through MNsure as of Friday, smashing previous records.
"We have the lowest uninsured rate in state history. I hope that any policy change they pursue doesn't change that. That's good for all of us," O'Toole said.
Outnumbered by a GOP-controlled Senate and House, Dayton said he is ready to fight against drastic changes. He said his priorities will hinge on what happens at the federal level, but cautioned lawmakers against scrapping MNsure, saying the sticker shock has nothing to do with exchange but the health care overhaul as a whole.
"It's a great political slogan. I think it had a major impact on some of the legislative races," Dayton said of Republicans tying Minnesota Democrats and MNsure to the rate increases. "But it's another thing to deal with the reality of what you put in its place."
"They better look before they push us over the cliff," he added.
A proposed special session to find a temporary MNsure fix was put on hold until after Election Day, a move that appropriately attempted to separate political rhetoric from actually making a change that helps Minnesota families cope with rising costs.
Now, with a new Republican dominance heading to the MInnesota Legislature, talk of a special session is again emerging. However, without a specific short-term fix identified or a date set, we have our doubts that legislators will head to St. Paul en masse before January.
Even if a deal is reached as the holiday season approaches, it would merely add a new level of uncertainty for individuals and families who need to purchase insurance through MNsure or the open market. New lawmakers could bring new ideas and shift support in January, which means a November fix could be undone or transformed in mere months.
With the sign up period running through January, the estimated 5 percent of Minnesotans who aren't covered by employers' plans or other insurance will be in a unique position. A temporary fix could be found before the signup deadline is reached, even without a special session.
MNsure Allison O'Toole, however, warns not to put off decisions. She recently told the Post Bulletin Editorial Board that any adjustments will likely to benefit all MNsure users, whether they sign up today or at the last minute, but those who wait could risk a coverage gap since current plans end on Dec. 31.
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It's also important to note that tax credits and other potential adjustments will likely only be available to people who sign up through the MNSure marketplace, meaning those who pay the increased premiums elsewhere may not get any legislative relief, if an agreement is reached.
Under current guidelines, automatic tax credits are available to individuals earning less than $47,520 and families of four with household incomes up to $97,200. As a result, it's tempting for those with incomes above that line to look elsewhere, since there is no financial benefit to purchasing through MNsure,
Legislative adjustments could change that, which means it may be beneficial to keep the MNsure option open, especially if costs are competitive.
Overwhelming uncertainty remains, so it's good to see a willingness to discuss adjustments. Yet, it's also troubling to see a rise in talk about dismantling the entire program at the federal level, which could leave an estimated 18 million people uninsured and allow insurers to again tell people with existing ailments that they are not eligible for coverage.
Middle ground must be found. Unfortunately, it's unlikely to be effectively found before January, so Gov. Mark Dayton and legislative leaders would be better served by starting preliminary talks, sorting through options and working on a plan in the coming weeks.
It will set up an opportunity for a quick temporary fix in the first weeks of the 2017 legislative session and allow at least a dash of relief for those struggling under the current system.
MNsure open enrollment underway
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MNsure open enrollment is scheduled through Jan. 31. In order to secure coverage for Jan. 1, enrollment should be completed by Dec. 15.
Certified navigators and brokers than can offer free, in-person enrollment help. A searchable directory of those who are available can be found on the MNsure.org homepage.
The MNsure Contact Center is open extended hours through open enrollment. Minnesotans can call the MNsure Contact Center at (855) 366-7873 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays.
For Minnesotans preferring social media, tweet to @MNsure or leave a message on the MNsure Facebook page. Questions sent to MNsure's social media accounts are answered during regular business hours
Across the country, Democrats disappointed at losing the presidential election are rioting, burning American flags, throwing Molotov cocktails at police officers, hurling bricks through windows, setting fires in urban streets, and attacking random passers-by. We wrote about the riots and posted photos here. Much more could be added in the three days that have gone by since that post. The photos could be multiplied endlessly.
This rioter had a particularly ugly message, one that you might think would offend feminists:
Im just kidding about the feminists. Everyone knows feminism has nothing to do with women. It is all about extreme leftism. Lest you think Rape Melania is a uniquely evil manifestation of liberalism by one individual, check out the trending hashtags on Twitter. Many thousands of Democrats joined in the #Rape Melania movement.
But that isnt the worst, not by a long shot. Across America, vicious assaults have been carried out against Donald Trump voters. This one, in Chicago, was probably the worst. The Trump voter was beaten and kicked to within an inch of his life. When he crawled to his car to seek safety, one of the Democrats who had been assaulting him took the wheel and drove off, at speeds up to 65 miles an hour, while the Republican victim of the assault hung on for dear life. At last word, he is expected to live.
With this outrageous conduct by Democrats taking place, one might think that leaders of the Democratic Party would be scurrying to disavow their supporters violence. But that isnt happening. Are you aware of a single prominent Democrat who has repudiated the Democratic Party riots going on across the country? I am not. Or who has tried to distance his party from vicious, felonious assaults like the one in the video above? I am not aware of any Democrat who has condemned the life-threatening beating of a random Trump voter in Chicago. As best I can tell, leading Democrats think this sort of Brownshirt behavior is just fine.
U.S. Senator Cory Booker, often mentioned as a Democrat Presidential or Vice-Presidential nominee, hailed the vicious rioters, saying: God bless the protesters.
That is todays Democratic Party: the vicious, the violent, the anti-democratic, the bullies. The fascists.
Judge Davis has presided over the convictions of nine Minnesota men (Somali Minnesotans) who conspired to support ISIS and will now sentence then individually at hearings to be conducted today through Wednesday. He has scheduled three hearings a day in an ascending order of difficulty: three defendants who cooperated with the prosecution today, three who pleaded guilty with no cooperation tomorrow and three who contested the charges at trial on Wednesday. Ill be attending the hearings and reporting here.
The Star Tribunes Stephen Montemayor previewed the sentencings in All eyes on Minnesota federal judge before sentencing in nations biggest ISIL recruitment case. Montemayor includes this quotable quote from Judge Davis: This community people are starting to think these are misdemeanors.
To whom is Judge Davis referring? Montemayor does not say, but newly elected state representative Ilhan Omar must be one. Here the case of the Minnesota men crosses over with the curious case of Ilhan Omar. We havent gotten to the bottom of Omars case, but Im afraid were getting there.
Omar has written Judge Davis in advance of the sentencings. She knows virtually nothing about the case. She treats it as an opportunity to exploit for the purpose of the identity politics that is propelling her to international fame. Thanks to FOX 9 for posting the text of Omars letter to Judge Davis. Here it is:
Honorable Judge Davis, As you undoubtedly deliberate with great caution the sentencing of nine recently convicted Somali-American men, I bring to your attention the ramifications of sentencing young men who made a consequential mistake to decades in federal prison. Incarcerating 20-year-old men for 30 or 40 years is essentially a life sentence. Society will have no expectations of the to be 50 or 60-year-old released prisoners; it will view them with distrust and revulsion. Such punitive measures not only lack efficacy, they inevitably create an environment in which extremism can flourish, aligning with the presupposition of terrorist recruitment: Americans do not accept you and continue to trivialize your value. Instead of being a nobody, be a martyr. The best deterrent to fanaticism is a system of compassion. We must alter our attitude and approach; if we truly want to affect change, we should refocus our efforts on inclusion and rehabilitation. A long-term prison sentence for one who chose violence to combat direct marginalization is a statement that our justice system misunderstands the guilty. A restorative approach to justice assesses the lure of criminality and addresses it. The desire to commit violence is not inherent to people it is the consequences of systematic alienation; people seek violent solutions when the process established for enacting change is inaccessible to them. Fueled by disaffection turned to malice, if the guilty were willing to kill and be killed fighting perceived injustice, imagine the consequence of them hearing, I believe you can be rehabilitated. I want you to become part of my community, and together we will thrive. We use this form of distributive justice for patients with chemical dependencies; treatment and societal reintegration. The most effective penance is making these men ambassadors of reform. The restorative approach provides a long-term solution though the self-declared Islamic State may soon suffer defeat, their radical approach to change-making will continue as it has throughout history by criminalizing the undergirding construct rather than its predisposed victims. Therein, this ruling can set a precedent and has the potential to be a landmark case in addressing extremism. Thank you for your careful attention, Ilhan Omar
State Representative-Elect MN 60B
Omars letter is incomprehensible in part (criminalizing the undergirding conduct rather than its predisposed victims, for example), and application of the restorative justice approach remains mysterious, but we get the gist. Free the Minnesota men! Anoint them ambassadors of reform.
Reform what? If the best deterrent to fanaticism is compassion, everything is beautiful.
Omars letter is breathtaking in its presumption and arrogance, though we have grown accustomed to the approved euphemistic style. The desire to commit violence in the case of these nine men derived entirely from their devotion to Islam, as did their systematic alienation from the United States.
The curious case of Ilhan Omar she and it are one hard case.
NOTE: Montemayor severely clips this quotable quote from the sentencing memorandum filed by the prosecution in the case of Guled Omar:
Respect for the law is a particularly important factor in this case. No trial in the aggregate memory of the U.S. Attorneys Office has been conducted in more of an atmosphere of intimidation, harassment, and incipient violence than the trial of this case. The families of cooperating defendants were harassed in the courtroom, in full view of the testifying witness; there was a fistfight in the corridor outside the courtroom; multiple individuals had to be ejected from the courtroom for not following the Courts rules of behavior. A stern sentence is needed to promote respect for the law, to demonstrate clearly that this is a nation of laws. * * * * * As the Court witnessed in the Courtroom and surrounding press coverage, despite the gravity of the charges, the defendants had significant community support.
There is a story here for anyone with eyes to see, but you wont find it in the newspaper of record in the Twin Cities.
CORRECTION: In the original version of this post, I wrote that Montemayor had interviewed Judge Davis. After inquiry to Judge Daviss office this morning, I have been apprised that Judge Davis was not interviewed by Montemayor. Judge Davis has decliend all media requests for interviews about the case and sentencing issues (including three of mine). Judge Daviss office tells me that the quotes of Judge Davis in Montemauyors article are all drawn from previous hearings. I regret the error.
Montemayors article in fact refers to an interview with the judge. I assume it refers to the press gathering Judge Davis called to announced his appointment of a German social scientist to prepare presentence reports on the six defendant who pleaded guilty, a development I reported on in the Weekly Standard article Judging the Minnesota men.'
The European Union on Monday placed 17 Syrian ministers and the central bank governor on a sanctions blacklist targeting the regime of President Bashar al-Assad over attacks on civilians.
They face travel bans and asset freezes for "being responsible for the violent repression against the civilian population in Syria, benefiting from or supporting the regime, and/or being associated with such persons," an EU statement said.
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The Beginning of Silence
By Ibrahim Zakama,
Kairos Productions, 2012,
48 pages.
One Thousand Years of Thirst
By Denja Abdullahi,
Kraftgriots, 2011,
112 pages.
James Joyce, the giant Irish modernist novelist of the twentieth century paid his own tribute to the creative genius of youth, when he published his first notable work and entitled it, A Portrait of An Artist As A Youngman.
When sometime ago the city of Abuja witnessed the birth of a book, The Beginning of Silence, by the twelve year old author and poet, Ibrahim Zakama, even Joyce must rejoice that some cheeky yet to be teen boy dared to shred the implicit age-limits he drew on the sands for artists. His very choice of title sets you thinking that we may well have a prodigy among us, because for those who know, the solitude which silence bestows is the beginning of wisdom for the truly creative mind. This gem of a title enunciates our very aware child-poets artistic principle. So, all you noisy throng of adults, take heed!
The ambition of the poet is expressed in the first poem, when he seems to wonder in Beautiful Sun: The sun brighter than light/You still are looking at the sun. The same sun teases his dream in the concluding lines: Believe and one day you will/be as bright as the sun.
A declamatory cadence tinged with innocence seeps through the fourth poem, Song in My Heart, to reveal all that our poet thinks this rite of chanting is all about I always sing and dance/To the song in my heart/I tell the truth and I sing/About the song in my heart. The search for the truth is the provenance of the philosopher, while the poets fount of inspiration remains the heart. So, we have here a poet of the mind and heart, poised to reflect and create for his audience.
The Beginning of Silence, however, offers more abundant lines of the intimations of a poet of. The question arises, what does a boy, sorry, a poet at twelve know about love, to devote close to a third of the forty-six poems in his book, to cogitating and musing about it? They range in intensity and tenderness from Whats Her Name?, Your Beauty, to What Is Love?, When Love Says No, and My Love Is Blind, where he raps and confesses: I would love her so true/But she makes me feel blue
The thinking poems are no less meditative and motivational, in such verses as The Journey, If Only, Peacemaker, Racing Is Unlimited, Bring Me A Clear Hand, A Man With A Dream, The Rules, My Teachers, The Lazy Mans Song. Related to these are the poems on nature Dove From Above, Wildcat ,Rain, By Sunlight.
Of course, much to be expected from a child, there are the whimsical pieces, like If I Shoot Now, You Dont Know My Name, and Usual Parade, which satirise our current political scene. However, the very last poem in the book I Never Said I Wasnt Afraid is the poem that truly speaks to our troubled times, where he despairs, Im scared of the animals that lurk in the dark/Am I soon to become their midnight snack?
Not unexpectedly for a child growing up in this wild, wild age of rap music where everything seems to rhyme without reason, most of Ibrahims poems mimic this trend. But, Babys Cry, stands out as a stylistically successful and empathetic poem, and it does not try to rhyme: A babys cry/Sometimes it feels/Like it came out/Of nowhere, though
A considerable number of the poems are dedicated to family members his sibling brother who also writes, a late aunt, an uncle, his mother, and most especially the poets father, whos a versifier himself. The fathers influence cannot be discounted, but listening to Ibrahim recite his work as I did before a mostly adult audience at the Abuja Writers Forum Monthly Session, tells you he crafted each line in The Beginning of Silence.
Formerly a pupil at Educare Private/Chosen High School in Jos and Funtaj International School in Abuja, and currently enrolled at Belle Vue Boys School in Bradford, UK, versatile Ibrahim also sketched the thirty-seven illustrations in this book, including the cover. And he responded to every query with surprising aplomb. Like the question from me concerning his choice of title, to which he said: Its my first ever book. I have to be quiet when I set out to write and create
A Thousand Years Of Thirst is Denja Abdullahis third collection of poetry, coming after Mairogo: A Buffoons Poetic Journey Around Northern Nigeria, and, Abuja Munyi (This is Abuja). The dominant motif that ties the three books together is that of the wandering minstrel on a journey of discovery of life in his natural, social and cultural environment.
The poets intent in this new collection is explicitly stated in the last two lines of his sonnet-like fourteen-line Dedication on page 5: To the spirit of the pathfinder/Giving new insight to a static world. A Thousand Years Of Thirst details in poem after poem, the authors search towards opening new grounds, both in literary and ideological terms, for making his world a better place.
A Thousand Years of Thirst is structured into four sections reflecting the thematic routes and detours of the persona eternally on a journey. The four sections are: The Poets World, with twenty one poems; The Wandering Minstrel with eighteen poems; Rediscovery with six, and, African Love Songs, the largest, with twenty-seven poems.
The first section starts with an invocation of the poets Muse in Oasis, the first poem in the book. The reader is given a glimpse into the preparations of the poet at the point of setting out. The declamatory lines from this particular poem sum up the thematic concerns of the book: Whisper the promise of scented fluid into my camels ears/And make it race to the prized beauty./ Said to be waiting in honour at the oasis.
The poet as a restless rider, journeying away from the diverse straits of encampment, seeks the tenderness and companionship of a beloved one.
In the second section titled, The Wandering Minstrel, there is a definite shift from the earlier concerns of the poet with the twin subjects of love and the poets world. This section reveals a new consciousness of the poet as a social and political being. The poets anger at the social inequities he sees all around him is expressed in an uncompromising stance in The Wandering Minstrel, as he declares, My song will turn to fiery embers/scalding palaces of tyrant rulers (page 43).
The contrasting roles of the warrior and the poet are brought to the fore in their confrontation in Between the Warrior and the Poet. In the dramatic exchanges between the two, the author, do we say predictably, takes sides with the poet.
An attestation to this point perhaps is rendered by the author in his poem written in memory of Ken Saro-Wiwa, titled, Africa Kills Her Son. This happens to be the same title of an ironically prophetic short story Ken Saro-Wiwa wrote before the hangman came calling, over a decade and half ago. The poem also recalls the sad fate that befell the other irritants and noisemakers, like Lumumba, Biko, Giwa Murtala, Samora, and Sankara, who lost their lives in their search for justice for all.
In the third and the shortest section, titled Rediscovery, the midpoint through the minstrels journeys, the author/poet/ traveler/exile, in order to proceed further, takes us back to his cultural root for a re-grounding in the lore of his native land of Agbaja, in Lokoja, in the middle belt region of Nigeria. This section celebrates this reunion with the birthplace of his ancestors and kindred. Rediscovery clearly reveals that this poet is not estranged from his people as the lines here evoke a sense of oneness with the ways of his people: Agbaja:Gbonojo Ma Gbolue/Agbaja which welcomes the stranger/With warm bosom of hospitality/But tells those of the soil/To rest on the hard edge of reality.
The fourth and final section, titled African Love Songs, which also has the largest number of poems, takes us full circle to the theme of the search for the tenderness of a beloved one in the very first poem, Oasis. There is abundant evidence here to suggest that, we need not look farther than the delights and the inspiration offered by the romantic encounters of the wandering minstrel for the location of the oasis. These encounters with beloved ones are spread all over the continent! The love songs celebrate the dark maiden from Calabar to Darker to Zimbabwe
The other poems in this section more or less complement and accentuate this flourish of Senghorian cadence. And the reader recognises immediately that we have arrived at the oasis of love and tenderness, just as the wandering poet has reached the soothing point of a fulfilled mission.
Chiedu Ezeanah is Contributing Editor, Arts & Culture, at PREMIUM TIMES.
Some senior officials of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria are voicing strong opposition to the planned sale of Keystone Bank Ltd., PREMIUM TIMES can report.
The disquiet comes as the state-owned asset management company is set to announce new owners for the bank, which is the last of the three nationalised financial institutions yet to be sold, PREMIUM TIMES learnt.
The disturbed officials say Ahmed Kuru, the chairman of AMCON, has concluded plans to hand over Keystone to a coalition of powerful Northern interests, disregarding extant takeover provisions of AMCON in the process.
Barring any last minute changes, a firm linked to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Umar Modibbo, MD/CEO of Sigma Pensions Limited, may emerge the new owner of Keystone Bank with its nearly 160 branches, PREMIUM TIMES understands.
The two influential Nigerians are allegedly being represented by the firm which our sources said did not participate in the bidding process, in a clear contradiction of basic public asset sale requirements.
Following a commercial placed for the bidding process by AMCON, 13 companies submitted their expression of interests. These did not include the firm which AMCON is now set to sell the bank to.
The deal could also see Nigerian taxpayers lose billions of naira if allowed to stand. This is because AMCON is reportedly in talks to sell the bank for about N25.1 billion, representing only a fraction of the approximately N200 billion that AMCON paid to purchase the banks bad debts in 2011.
This is despite the fact that some of the companies that participated in the bidding process offered more than the amount and had core banking expertise, PREMIUM TIMES learnt.
The Keystone Bank, previously known as Bank PHB, was among the three banks nationalised by the CBN in 2011, after failing failed a stress test conducted by the apex bank.
The two others, Mainstreet and Enterprise Banks, had been handed over to other stronger banks in the industry by AMCON more than a year ago.
The delay in announcing new owners for Keystone, PREMIUM TIMES learnt, is not unconnected with the internal squabbles among the management of AMCON.
The members, who spoke strictly on the condition of anonymity, said Mr. Kuru sidestepped laid down requirements for asset sale to ensure Keystone is ceded to his cronies.
It is very clear that all caution was thrown to the wind as a result of a grand plan to disqualify very strong and reputable intended buyers in order to allow the cronies and business associates of the Managing Director take over the bank, a senior AMCON official said.
Mr. Kuru was appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari in August 2015, and the board members said the sale of Keystone could dent the administrations much-avowed anti-corruption war.
The opinions being widely held across the country that the president has a sectional agenda will also be put to test by the outcome of the sale, a source said.
The concerned officials wondered why AMCON would sell a bank of Keystones magnitude to a firm that has no requisite expertise in banking and financial management.
It is an open secret within the banking sector in Nigeria that the sale was arranged for this powerful northern group whose promoters do not have the required banking experience, thereby raising questions about the supposed independence of the international advisers of AMCON in the sale of Keystone, one official said.
Mr. Modibbo could not be reached for comments.
The AMCON chairman, Mr. Kuru, was as at the time of publishing yet to respond to an email enquiry sent to him.
Mr. Atikus spokesperson, Paul Ibe, said he had no prior knowledge of his principals involvement in the controversial transaction, but still suggested that the opposition to his principals role by some AMCON officials might have been politically-motivated.
I am not aware if his Excellency is interested or is involved in Keystone Bank. But even if he is, does that disqualify him? Is it because hes a former Vice President and an APC chieftain? Hasnt he run businesses successfully? Created jobs? Delivered dividends to shareholders? Paid taxes?
Who are those internally? Who are the people? Is it politicians who are mischief makers hiding under the cover of internal people? Mr. Ibe said.
When told that the sources are actually top officials of AMCON, Mr. Ibe said he would rather take the questions by email. An email forwarded to him was yet to be responded to as at the time of this report.
An official of Zenith Bank has told a Federal high Court in Abuja that $40 million was transferred from the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) into the account of a company owned by a cousin of former President Goodluck Jonathan, Azibaola Roberts, and his wife.
Olabode Farinola, a compliance officer with the bank, is a principal witness of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in the ongoing trial of Mr. Roberts and his wife, Stella.
He told the court presided over by Justice Nnamdi Dimgba that the money was transferred to OnePlus Holdings LTD from the office of the NSA according to bank description.
Under cross-examination by counsel to Mr. Roberts, Chris Uche Mr. Farinola also admitted that the NSA never complained to Zenith Bank that the $40 million was wrongly transferred.
Im not aware of the purpose of the inflow or how it was disbursed but we didnt receive any letter from the NSA that the money was wrongly transferred, Mr. Farinola said.
Mr. Roberts and his wife are facing a seven-count charge brought against them by the EFCC.
They were accused of diverting $40 million meant for the supply of tactical communication kits for Nigerias Special Forces. The funds were allegedly transferred from the account of the Office of the NSA domiciled with the Central Bank of Nigeria.
During a previous cross examination, Ibrahim Mahe, another principal witness had told the court that only the former NSA, Sambo Dasuki, could explain why OnePlus Holdings Limited got a $40 million pipeline security contract.
Mr. Mahe, who recently retired as Permanent Secretary, Special Services Operations (SSO) in the NSAs office, told the court that he paid Oneplus $40 million out of the $600 million special security fund sourced from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
He however failed to tell the court the names of the companies that benefited from the remaining $560 million of the special security fund.
Mr. Farinola, while being led in evidence by Sylvanus Tahir, the prosecution counsel, informed the court that $39, 999, 985 was received by the accused persons on September 10, 2014.
The counsel, Mr. Tahir, informed the court that more witnesses would be presented at the next hearing as some of them are not currently in the country.
The case was adjourned by Justice Dimgba to November 18 for continuation of trial and cross examination.
The Police have confirmed the death of eight Shiites members and a police sergeant in Mondays violent clash between the law enforcement agents and members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria in Kano.
The clash occurred during a procession of the Shiites in the city.
The state Police Commissioner, Rabiu Yusuf, said the Shiites, who were allegedly in possession of dangerous weapons, were the aggressors in the clash.
He said they snatched an Ak47 gun from an officer and used it to kill the sergeant.
Mr. Yusuf said the incident started at about 8:00 a.m. when police officers were invited to a scene of mayhem at Kwanar Dawaki Zaria allegedly caused by the Shiites who, he said, blocked the road and were attacking motorists and vandalizing properties.
The commissioner said the law enforcement agents tried to stop the carnage with tear gas but were repelled by the Shiites with arrows and other dangerous weapons.
Mr. Yusuf said the officers had to resort to minimal power, resulting in eight confirmed dead by the doctors.
He said scores of injured Shiites members were receiving treatment at various hospitals.
The Commissioner said four of his officers were also injured, while ten Shiites were arrested.
The casualty figure could not be confirmed independently.
However, a witness who preferred anonymity said he saw a pile of bodies of Shiite members being removed from the scene of the clash in a police van.
Another witness had told PREMIUM TIMES that the crisis started when the police tried to forcefully stop the Shiite procession.
Mr. Yusuf said he had directed the officer in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department of the command to begin investigations into the immediate and remote causes of the clash.
He urged residents of the state to report any suspicious movement to the nearest police station, warning that the authorities would not tolerate any attempt at causing civil disaffection and breach of peace by anybody.
While the police claimed the Shiites were the aggressors, the groups spokesperson has refuted the claim.
Ibrahim Musa said his groups members were having their annual Arbaeen Symbolic Trek from Kano to Zaria, in Kaduna State, when they were attacked by police officers.
He denied that his groups members had any weapons.
Throughout the nearly four decades of the existence of the IMN, it has never stockpiled, carried or used weapons. It never had any cause to, even in the face of provocation, the IMN spokesperson said.
Mondays killings occur about a year after over 300 Shiites were killed by soldiers who also accused them of blocking a major road in Kaduna State during a procession.
The leader of the Shiites, Ibrahim El-Zakzaky has been in detention since the December attack condemned by local and international rights groups.
The trial of former minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, for alleged money laundering at a Federal High Court in Lagos, on Monday suffered a setback, following his continued remand at the Kuje prisons in Abuja.
Mr. Fani-Kayode, former director of media and publicity of the campaign committee of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, is charged alongside a former minister of finance, Nenadi Usman, and Danjuma Yusuf.
They were charged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a 17-count bordering on money laundering.
The accused were alleged to have committed the offences between January and March 2015.
In counts one to seven, they were alleged to have unlawfully retained over N3.8 billion , while in counts eight to 14, the accused were alleged to have unlawfully used over N970 million.
Meanwhile, in counts 15 to17, Mr. Fani-Kayode and one Olubode Oke, now at large, were alleged to have made cash payments of about N30 million in excess of the amount allowed by law, without going through a financial institution.
Besides, Mr. Fani-Kayode was alleged to have made payments to one Paste Poster Co (PPC) of No 125 Lewis St., Lagos, in excess of amounts allowed by law.
The EFCC said the offences contravened the provisions of Sections 15 (3) (4), 16 (2) (b), and 16 (5) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) (Amendment) Act, 2012.
But all the accused persons pleaded not guilty to the charges.
At the resumed hearing on Monday, Mr. Fani-Kayodes counsel, Wale Balogun, informed the court that his client was not in court because the operatives of EFCC arrested him at the last sitting on October 21.
He said EFCC had since then incarcerated him in Kuje prison.
My lord, I recall that on October 21, I informed this court that the EFCC were planning an arrest of the second accused.
And I remember that my lord advised that in view of his pending trial before the court, he should be invited here whenever the need arises.
My lord, on the said day, after the court had risen, the second accused was arrested within the courts premises.
I requested for an arrest warrant from the leader who informed me that there was none to that effect but told me that the order was `from above.
The second accused was taken to the EFCC Lagos and kept till 5 p.m. when another order came from `above to move him to Abuja immediately.
My lord, the second accused was kept in custody of the prosecution for 21 days without any word, he told the court.
He was finally arraigned on November 10 before your learned brother Justice John Tsoho in Abuja, on a five-count charge bordering on N26 million.
He was subsequently remanded at the Kuje prisons and in view of this, we are helpless, as his bail conditions have not been perfected in spite of frantic efforts by family and friends.
Responding, the prosecutor, Rotimi Oyedepo, told the court that he was aware of the arraignment of the second accused but added that his arraignment before the Abuja division of the court had nothing to do with the instant case.
He argued that the subsequent arrest of the accused was with a view to serving him with the charge and not to disrespect the court.
Mr. Oyedepo urged the court to grant an adjournment so as to allow the accused appear and stand trial.
Justice Muslim Hassan then ruled that I will refrain from making any comment in relation to the arrest of the second accused in the courts premises in spite of being granted bail.
This case is adjourned at the instance of the prosecution to December 12, while the earlier date of November 15 is hereby vacated, he ruled.
(NAN)
A former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has left the Kuje Prisons, four days after he was granted bail by a high court, his spokesperson said Monday.
Jude Ndukwe said Mr. Fani-Kayode was released from prisons Monday afternoon, and he expressed his gratitude to Nigerians for their moral support.
Chief Femi Fani-Kayode has been released, Mr. Ndukwe said. He has asked me to convey his heartfelt appreciation and love to all those that prayed for and encouraged him and his family at this difficult time.
Last month, Mr. Fani-Kayode was arrested outside the court premises where he was answering a different case brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
After spending about three weeks in detention, the agency slammed a five-count charge of diverting N26 million in public funds against him on November 10.
He was granted a N50 million bail on the same day.
Mr. Fani Kayode served as the spokesman for the failed re-election campaign of former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015.
He had so far spent 91 days in custody for offenses bordering on financial crimes, including the 67 days he spent between May and July. His trial in Lagos stalled on Monday afternoon after he couldnt show up because he was in detention in Abuja.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) says it has run out of patience with telecommunication operators over unsolicited messages to subscribers.
The commission on Monday issued a final one-week ultimatum for the 13 telecom network operators to put a stop to the messages or face sanctions.
NCC had on April 20 issued a Do not disturb (DND) directives to the 13 operators.
The commission said it was worried by the non-compliance by the operators, resulting in a deluge of complaints by subscribers nationwide.
Already, an eight-member committee was recently constituted by the NCC to look into the matter and come up with ways to bring an end to it.
After several meetings, including those held with the network providers, it became necessary to issue the latest ultimatum to redress the menace of incessant unsolicited text messages and phone calls for telemarketing via the various networks, NCC Director, Public Affairs, Tony Ojobo, said.
Mr. Ojobo listed the affected network operators to include Airtel Network Limited, MTN Nigeria, Globacom Nigeria, Smile Communication, Visafone Communications, Ntel, Etisalat, Multi links, Starcomms, Danjay Telecoms, Gamjitel Limited and Gicell wireless.
He said the NCC had written to all the 13 networks providers on whose networks it received a series of complaints from subscribers regarding the efficacy of the Do Not Disturb (DND) service.
Mr. Ojobo said the Commission had engaged mobile network operators on the subject and directed that the phrase MTN generated SMS referred to part(d) of the duration issued on April 20, to MTN and other network providers shall be taken to mean messages and calls with respect to only information on emergencies.
He cited the example of national security, fire, notifications on network maintenance programmes down times and notification regarding subscribers bundle usage and service renewals.
Other text messages and voice calls informing subscribers of new products and service offerings were not regarded as network generated and therefore regarded as unsolicited marketing messages.
The director said the NCC asked the affected network providers to ensure information on the Do Not Disturb service should be disseminated after every revenue generating activity via the end of call notification (EOCN) for the period not less than 45 days within the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily from the receipt of the latest letter on the subject.
He said the operators were equally urged to disseminate the information through all channels of communications open to them, including websites, social media platforms, bill boards, flash messages, text messages, interactive voice response platform, radio jingles, newspapers advertisements and television commercials.
Failure to comply with the directives, in furtherance of the Direction of April 20, 2016, within seven days from November 14, 2016 shall result in the imposition of appropriate sanctions, the commission warned.
Nigerians have endured the nightmare of unsolicited text messages from telecom operators, and several subscribers have petitioned the NCC for redress.
Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has called on the Nigerian government to obey last months order by the Court of the Economic Community of West African States declaring that Sambo Dasuki, the former National Security Adviser, be granted bail.
In a statement on Monday, Mr. Falana said the government, having loudly proclaimed its commitment to the rule of law cannot afford to ignore the order of the ECOWAS Court.
Indeed, as a leading member state of the ECOWAS, the Nigerian Government must continue to demonstrate leadership by example, said Mr. Falana, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria.
More so, that it was federal government which persuaded the former military dictators in Niger Republic to release ex-President Mammoud Tandja from custody in line with the order of the ECOWAS Court. Therefore, President Buhari should direct the SSS to comply with the order of the ECOWAS Court by releasing Col. Dasuki (rtd) on bail without any further delay.
The ECOWAS Court had, in October, declared as unlawful and arbitrary the arrest and detention of Mr. Dasuki.
The court also held that the further arrest of the former NSA chief by the government on November 4, after he was granted bail by a court, amounts to a mockery of democracy and the rule of law.
Mr. Dasuki, a retired colonel, is facing multiple trials for alleged diversion of $2.1 billion meant for arms purchase by the immediate past administration. He is also accused of illegal possession of firearms.
He approached the ECOWAS court after he was rearrested by operatives of the State Security Service shortly after meeting his bail conditions in November last year.
Mr. Dasuki has remained in the custody of the SSS since his arrest.
Mr. Falana said the inability of the Nigerian government to ban human rights violations was responsible for the decision of the US to reportedly ban the Buhari administration from purchasing war planes to prosecute the war on terror.
A similar ban under the Jonathan administration prolonged the war on terror, he said.
While the ban may be questioned in view of the global fight against terrorism the federal government should release all political detainees from custody and stop the police and other security agencies from infringing on the human rights of the Nigerian people.
Tunisian authorities have discovered four arms caches in the south of the country near the border with war-ravaged Libya and seized large quantities of weapons, security sources said Monday.
Two were found Saturday near the city of Ben Guerdane, a third on Sunday and another on Monday also in the same region, they said.
The interior ministry said the biggest find was made Sunday, in a garage on the outskirts of Ben Guerdane where 50 guns, including 27 Kalashnikov assault rifles, and dozens of missiles were confiscated.
Authorities also seized 30 crates of ammunition as well as 12 kilograms (26.4 pounds) of explosives and more than 1,000 tasers, it said.
Three suspects, including the owner of the garage, were detained for questioning, the ministry said, adding that a fourth person was arrested after Monday's find.
A defence ministry official told Shems FM radio that the arms caches were discovered thanks to information found on the cell phone of a militant who was shot dead by security forces last week.
The North African country has experienced a rise in religious extremism since the 2011 revolution that ousted longtime dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.
Its security forces have been battling a Islamist militants movement responsible for killing dozens of soldiers and police officers as well as civilians including 59 foreign tourists.
The Islamic State group, active in Libya, has claimed responsibility for several of those attacks.
In March, dozens of Islamist militants attacked security installations in Ben Guerdane on the border with Libya, leaving 13 members of the security forces, seven civilians and at least 55 militants dead, according to official figures.
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A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Monday granted bail to retired Air Vice Marshal Tony Omenyi, who was accused of illegally transferring over N130 million to a private company account.
Mr. Omenyi was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on a three-count charge bothering on illegal transfer of money on three different occasions.
He was accused of carrying out the crime while serving as the Managing Director of Aeronautical Engineering and Technical Services Ltd. (AETSL).
The EFCC had alleged that the defendant illegally transferred N24. 8 million to Huzee/Sky Expert Nig. Ltd.s account domiciled with the First City Monument Bank, on January 8, 2014.
The commission also alleged that the retired air force chief illegally transferred N61.5 million to the same account from August 12, 2014 to August 23, 2014, and another sum of N50 million to the same account on November 18, 2014.
Huzee/Sky Expert Nig. Ltd. is described in the EFCC charge sheet as a contractor of the AETSL.
The EFCC said that Mr. Omenyi was fully aware that the said funds formed part of the proceeds of unlawful activity.
It said that the offences, contravened Section 15(2) of the Money Laundering and Prohibition Act, 2011, and punishable under Section 15(3) of the same Act.
At the resumed sitting to consider the bail application, filed by the defendants counsel, Wahab Olatoye, Justice Nnamdi Dimgba granted the accused bail in the sum of N60 million.
The Judge also ordered two sureties who must have a N30 million bail bond each and a landed property each in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) or Lagos.
Mr. Dimgba said that the sureties should also be professional businessmen or a civil servant not below the level of an Assistant Director in the federal civil service.
According to the judge, where the landed property is located in a satellite town of the FCT, it must be a fully developed that is worth the bail bond granted to the sureties.
Mr. Dimgba added that the defendant must also deposit his international passport with the courts registrar and must not travel out of the country without the prior knowledge of the court.
The judge ordered the defendant be remanded in Kuje Prison pending the time he fulfils the bail conditions.
He adjourned the matter to December 15, January 23, 2017 and January 24, 2017 for trial.
(NAN)
The founder of The Synagogue Church Of All Nations, Temitope Joshua, on Sunday said his earlier prophecy on the U.S. presidential election was given different interpretation by people on a different level with him.
In his Sunday sermon, Mr. Joshua (popularly known as TB Joshua) said people would need the spirit of a prophet to be able to recognize one.
We have seen the outcome of the election in America, Mr. Joshua said in a message later posted on the churchs official website and Facebook page.
He also hinted that his reference to Hilary Clinton as eventual winner was reflected in her winning more popular votes than Donald Trump.
Having read, you will notice that it is all about the popular vote, the vote of the majority of Americans. In this case, we need the Spirit of a Prophet to recognize a Prophet. Our levels are different. We are not on the same level.
We might have great cathedrals, huge bells, and all kinds of activities that are good by human standards but human point of view is limited.
1 Corinthians 1:25. The foolishness of God is wiser than that of men and the weakness of God is stronger than that of men. There is no shortcut to spiritual maturity unless earthly understanding gives way to spiritual enlightenment.
Last Sunday, with two days to the US Presidential election, Mr. Joshua had predicted a narrow victory for Hillary Clinton, the Democratic Party presidential candidate.
Ten days ago, I saw the new President of America with a narrow win, he had said in his prophecy which was later posted on the churchs official Facebook account.
The new President will be facing several challenges over many issues, including: passing bills, attempts to possibly pass a vote of no confidence on the new President. The boat of the new President will be rocked.
By the way, in order not to keep you in suspense, what I frankly saw is a woman.
But on Wednesday, Donald Trump, the Republican candidate and Mrs. Clintons main opponent, clinched the ticket to the White House by winning 306 electoral colleges to Mrs. Clintons 232.
Mrs. Clinton, however, garnered more votes with 60,981,118 to Mr. Trumps 60,350,241 votes.
In the aftermath of Mrs. Clintons defeat, Nigerians trooped to social media to mock Mr. Joshua over the failure of his prophecy.
On Wednesday morning, Mr. Joshua deleted the prophecy from the churchs official Facebook account.
In its place, he posted a seven-line message urging his members to join him in prayer.
On Sunday, Mr. Joshua said people tried to interpret the prophecy on the basis of their own minds and ideas.
The prophecy seems (sic) to cause uproar, to many who gave it different meaning and interpretation, he said.
Finally, campaigns and elections in any democratic country in the world are never about one person, it is about the country we care and love. Whichever way it happens, we must accept the outcome and then look to the future (God), the Author and Finisher.
Democracy is all about accommodation. All democrats must value the process of democracy more than the product. God bless the United States of America.
The police in Cross River said one of its personnel, Kingsley Iyeke, killed another policeman, Edet Archibong, during a gun duel between the police and suspected cultists in Calabar.
Jimoh Ozi-Obeh, the Commissioner of Police in the state, made this known on Monday in Calabar while briefing journalists on the activities of the command in the past one month.
The commissioner said that after the incident, the police swung into action by tracing the cultists to their hideout where some of them were arrested.
He explained that during interrogating, one of the suspected cultists mentioned Mr. Iyeke, a police corporal, as their member and that he was the one that shot the police inspector during the clash.
It would be recalled that we lost one of our inspectors last month during an exchange of fire with some cultists here in Calabar.
Majority of the suspects have been arrested. Our front line interrogation shows that one of our personnel, Corporal Kingsley Iyeke, was one of the cultists.
After interrogating one of the arrested cultists, he confessed that Iyeke was their member and that he was the one that shot the inspector.
During our trial, we found out that truly he was their member. We have dismissed him and he will face the full wrath of the law, he said.
Mr. Iyeke, 35, from Rivers, was attached to the Marine Police base in Calabar.
Responding to questions from journalists, Mr. Iyeke denied being a member of any cult group, saying that he was only being set up by the suspected cultists.
A teenager kidnapped in Ibadan, Oyo State, has been rescued in Calabar, Cross River State.
Jimoh Ozi-Obeh, the Commissioner of Police in Cross River State, made this known on Monday in Calabar while briefing journalists on the activities of the police command in the past one month.
Mr. Ozi-Obeh said the 16-year-old kidnap victim was abducted in Ibadan on November 7 and brought to Calabar the following day.
He said that the minor, a student of St. Barnabas Academy at Daramola Street in Ibadan, was abducted on his way to school.
He explained that the command had got across to the Ibadan Police Command with a view to safely hand over the boy to them and be re-united with his family.
Mr. Ozi-Obeh said that the police nabbed 10 suspected criminals in connection with various crimes in the state.
(NAN)
The Nigeria Medical Association, NMA, in Niger says the ratio of doctors to patients in the state was one to 9,000, as against one to 600 recommended by the World Health Organaisation, WHO.
Mustapha Yahaya, NMA Chairman in the state, made the disclosure on Monday in Minna, when members of the association paid a courtesy call on the House of Assembly Committee on Health.
We have always drawn the attention of the government to the fact that doctors are inadequate in Niger.
We have always made reference to WHO, which recommends one doctor to 600 people. Here, it is one doctor to 9,000 people he explained.
According to him, there are currently 450 doctors in the state, with many of them already leaving due to poor remuneration.
He urged the state government to fully implement the National Health Bill passed into law in 2014, saying that it would guarantee universal health access to all.
Mr. Yahaya further advocated 15 per cent budgetary allocation to the health sector, in line with WHOs recommendation, so as to improve the poor health indices in the state.
In his response, the committee chairman, John Bahago, promised to facilitate the establishment of a medical school in one of the tertiary institutions in Niger, to bridge the manpower gap.
We need more indigenous trained manpower and one way to achieve that is to establish a faculty of medicine in any of the higher institutions in the state.
But before then, we will do everything possible to ensure that the doctors in the state are well motivated to stay and work here, he said.
Mr. Bahago tasked the association to weed out quacks from the profession, and promised full support toward an improved working environment.
(NAN)
The Sokoto State government has said it will punish principals of schools found culpable of denying students the use of furniture provided by the government.
The spokesperson of Governor Aminu Tambuwal, Imam Imam, disclosed this to PREMIUM TIMES on Monday.
He was reacting to a story that the committee set up by the government to implement its State of Emergency in Education had discovered 200 sets of furniture locked up at a school where students sat on bare floor for lessons.
Mr. Imam had earlier issued a statement that the discovery was made at Hafsat Ahmadu Bello Memorial Secondary School, Sokoto.
He said the committee met students receiving lectures while sitting on bare floor.
Only a few classes in the school have enough seats to accommodate them.
For long, they have to put up with taking lectures while seated on bare floor.
Most use prayer mats to protect their whole tops from the floors dust, while others come to classes with extra wrappers to spray on floor as they sit.
While they have to put up with the most uncomfortable situation to take lectures daily, a few blocks away, 200 sets of classroom furniture were locked away, unattended to, and left to rot away.
When contacted on whether the state government would take any disciplinary action on the schools authority, Mr. Imam said the government would await the outcome of the committees findings.
The committee is going round all the schools and I dont think the government will treat individual cases, he said.
Mr. Imam also said definitely, punitive measures will be taken against any school found wanting.
In his earlier statement on Sunday, Mr. Imam had said that the committees leader, Shadi Sabeh, had immediately ordered that the furniture be arranged in the classrooms, and admonished the school management to always prioritise the needs of students.
The Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi-led faction of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has urged Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo to reinstate the deposed paramount ruler of Uromi, Anselm Edenojie.
The faction made the call in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Dayo Adeyeye, in Abuja on Sunday.
Mr. Adeyeye condemned the deposition alleging that the monarch was ostensibly deposed for supporting PDPs candidate, Osagie Ize-Iyamu, at the recently concluded gubernatorial election in the state.
He added that the deposition was, further evidence of favouritism and despotic reign of Oshiomole as a former governor of the state for the past eight years.
The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria empowers all Nigerian citizens to support, associate with and be affiliated to any political party and candidate of their choice.
It is a well known fact that several traditional rulers demonstrated
open support, and in fact campaigned for the APC candidate, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.
The faction urged all Nigerians to prevail on Mr. Obaseki to reverse what it termed obnoxious deposition he inherited from his predecessor.
It stated that restoring the monarch to his original position before he was wrongfully deposed, needed to be done.
Mr. Edenojie, the Ojuromi of Uromi, in Esan North-East Local Government Area of the state, was recently deposed by the immediate former governor of the state, Mr. Oshiomole.
The monarch, before his deposition, had been given a seven-day suspension by the state government for allegedly assaulting one Ms. Betty Okoebor during the September 28 governorship election.
The action, according to the state government, was sequel to his failure to respond to a query issued to him and for travelling outside the country without express permission.
He was later suspended for one year over alleged misconduct, among other offences.
The deposition, according to the state government, was pursuant to Section 28 (l and II) of the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Law, 1979.
(NAN)
The students of Akwa Ibom Polytechnic on Monday protested against the 100 per cent increment of fees by the schools authority.
The Students Union Government (SUG), President, Kingsley Eyo, told journalists at Ikot Osurua in Ikot Ekpene on Monday that the students were not consulted before the increment.
He added that the students were not comfortable with the Rector, Israel Afias style of administration, demanding his removal by the state government.
Mr. Eyo said students wondered why the schools management would choose to bring new fees regime in this period of economic recession.
The Pre-ND students that were paying N37, 000 are now to pay N69, 200 and ND-1 that were paying 45, 000 are now to pay N76, 200.
ND-2 students are now to pay N65, 500 as against N38, 000; HND-1 will have to pay N85, 700 as against N47, 500.
HND-2 students are now to pay N82, 700 as against N40, 700 that they were paying before, Eyo said.
The students also complained that management had not been publishing their semester results regularly.
He alleged that the first semester results of ND had always been delayed to final semester of ND-2.
The student union government president also accused the registrar of being insensitive to the students plight.
He said when the union approached the registrar for dialogue; he retorted that education was not for the poor.
Mr. Eyo threatened that the students would go on violent riot if the school authority refused to reduce the school fees. .
He said the management had also hijacked the running of Mami Market from the SUG.
Mami Market used to be controlled by the students, the management hijacked it. The levies from the market were usually paid to the student union government.
We had a meeting with them that since they are collecting the money from the Mami traders, they should give us some percentage.
We needed the money to repair the bus and some other things.
Even the park, there are some buses that are operating within the school campus, they hijacked the running of the park from us, he said.
The Rector of the polytechnic, Israel Afia, said in a text message that he was in a meeting and would not speak to the press today.
He said, Not today please. I am in a meeting somewhere. Lets talk later.
(NAN)
The Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer said in Ibadan on Monday that the command was working hard to rescue kidnapped Biodun Ogunbeku from his abductors.
Mr. Ogunbeku, a reverend of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, Akobo-Ojurin, Diocese of Agodi, Ibadan, was kidnapped on Thursday by five gunmen.
He was kidnapped at his farm at Kufi area, along Olounda-Aba Road in Ibadan at about 7 p.m.
Mr. Ajisebutu, who declined to state whether ransom was demanded by the abductors, however, said the police were on top of the situation.
The spokesperson said that the command was doing what it could to locate the hideout of the suspects.
He said that investigations were ongoing and that the Commissioner of Police would brief journalists as soon as investigations were completed.
Amos Ajiboye, the Diocesan Bishop of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Agodi, Ibadan, had said that the kidnappers were yet to contact the Church or the family of the victim.
(NAN)
Two men, Ezekiel Yusuf (29) and Musa Abubakar (25) have been arrested by Ogun State Police Command for alleged gang-rape of a pawpaw seller.
The Commands Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Oyeyemi, who made this known to on Monday said the suspects committed the crime along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
He said the 23 years old victim was hawking sliced pawpaw along the expressway, when the suspects under pretext of wanting to buy the product lured her into the house of one of them.
He said it was the cry of the victim during the act that attracted neighbours who reported the matter to the police.
Mr. Oyeyemi said the Divisional Police Officer of Ojodu Abiodun Police Station, Bamidele Job, quickly dispatched detectives to the scene and two suspects were promptly arrested.
The case is being further investigated by the police, he said.
A UAE court Monday jailed two Emiratis up to 10 years for their links to a "terrorist" organisation seen as a branch of the banned Muslim Brotherhood, media said.
The first defendant was handed a 10-year jail term after he was convicted of playing a "leading role" in a "banned secret group," the official WAM news agency reported.
The local Gulf News daily said in its online edition that he was found guilty of joining the outlawed Al-Islah group, which authorities accuse of activities aimed at overthrowing the government and seizing power.
He will remain under surveillance for three years after serving his prison term, both sources said.
The same Abu Dhabi-based Federal Supreme Court sentenced another Emirati to seven years in prison after it convicted him of joining the same organisation, running one of its offices in the Gulf country, and promoting its ideology, the sources said.
The United Arab Emirates in 2013 sentenced 69 activists to up to 15 years each in jail following a mass trial that saw them convicted for their links to Al-Islah.
Also on Monday, the same court sentenced a citizen from Comoros Islands to three years in jail after he was found guilty of promoting the Islamic State group, the Gulf News said.
The man drew slogans and symbols on public law promoting the Islamist militants group as well as "slanderous and degrading phrases about state officials", it added.
The United Arab Emirates is a member of the US-led coalition that has been bombing IS Islamist militants in Iraq and Syria since September 2014.
Authorities in the Gulf state have enacted anti-terror legislation, including the death penalty and harsher jail terms for crimes linked to religious hatred and extremist groups.
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The Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, on Monday signed into law a bill stipulating tough penalties for violent crimes, including 25 years jail term for convicted kidnappers.
Also captured in the new law are armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism and other related offences.
Mr. Amosun assented to the bill at a simple ceremony in his office attended by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Suraj Adekunbi, and other principal officers of the House.
Also present at the ceremony were the state Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Illiyasu, State Director, State Security Service, Kabiru Sali; Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General of the state, Olumide Ayeni; and other members of the state executive council.
Mr. Amosun said his administration would not allow criminals to find comfort in the state.
Kidnapping is alien to us in this part of the country and we have come to put an end to it as it now attracts 25 years jail term, the governor said.
Speaking with journalists after the ceremony, Mr. Adekunbi said with the signing of the bill into law, it was no longer business as usual for criminals in the state.
On his part, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Illiyasu said it was a signal to criminals to move away from in the state, warning that anyone caught for violent crime would face the full wrath of the law.
Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar has always offered Atlantic City diners a unique, creative, fun and eclectic culinary experience since opening inside The Quarter at the Tropicana Atlantic City 12 years ago.
But if you havent been there lately, you havent experienced Cuba Libre at its finest.
Why? Its all about Cuba Libre Concept Chef-Partner Guillermo Pernots travels to Cuba.
Pernot, who was born in Argentina, always loved Cuban food, and was connected to it through his wife, who is Cuban-born.
There was always an interest in it, Pernot says. But what we really knew about Cuban cuisine was really what we found and experienced in Miami. I always imagined what the flavors and what ingredients were like if Fidel Castro never took power. And that was the basis of my food at Cuba Libre. But when I started going to Cuba about four years ago, everything changed.
That first trip to celebrate New Years and the 50th anniversary of the Cuban revolution opened Pernots eyes to ingredients, recipes and techniques that exceeded his imagination.
I went with my sister-in-law, and that was the first time she went back since she was a child. It was very emotional, and we started to discover fantastic food we never thought we would find, along with different ingredients and combinations of those ingredients that we never imagined or saw in Miami. So when we came back, it wasnt just about bringing home recipes, but the knowledge that we acquired about how Cuban chefs work every day. Its not just black beans and rice. Its so much more.
Cuba Libre always pushed the boundaries of Cuban cuisine, and it still does. But now Pernot believes the restaurant, which also has locations in Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Orlando, is more authentic than ever.
For starters, some of Cuba Libres most traditional dishes remain, but Pernot altered some of those dishes to make them even better and more authentic. They include the Papas Rellenas ($16.50), potato croquettes filled with beef picadillo with sweet and spicy guajillo pepper sauce topped with crispy onion and manchego crema; Ropa Vieja ($23.25), shredded beef brisket stewed with tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, red wine, white rice, Cuban black beans and maduros; and Vaca Frita ($24.75), tender braised, then crisped shredded flank steak with roasted onions and a citrus garlic sauce served with white rice, black beans and maduros.
As much as I am getting bored with the Papas Rellenas, people love them, Pernot says. In the next year, we are going to be re-doing the whole menu again where we will retain some classics but add even more new stuff, so I am not sure they will make the cut. I put my twist on the Ropa Vieja by putting diced plantains inside the dish, which you wont find in Cuba. I think the plantains add a small hint of acidity thats needed when you are eating all that fatty richness. Those bits and pieces help break it down. And the Vaca Frita is also a classic. I wanted to make it different so I added the lemon sauce and the whole roasted garlic.
You will also find Pernots love for ceviche ($12 to $17.50), including bay scallop ceviche ($12.50) with tomato, Bermuda onions, cilantro, jalapeno salsa, fresh lime juice and extra virgin olive oil, as well as his famous empanadas ($11 for two, $15 for three, $20 for four), which originated in Spain but can be found throughout Cuba. Particularly good is the Del Campo with pulled pork, roasted poblano and charred tomatoes.
Pernots visits to Cuba also broke some preconceived notions he had about Cuban cuisine.
People say Cubans dont eat spicy food, and thats not true, Pernot says. They love spicy food all the way to the east, and they also use a lot of coconut there. In the west, you will see different spices like fennel and a lot of basil, which you just dont equate with Cuban cooking. I really discovered how diverse Cuban cuisine really is. They have Haitian, Chinese, French, Russian and American influences.
A great example of Pernot bringing something new home with him is the North Atlantic salmon ($27.50) glazed with honey and served with a red curry, mango and coconut milk sauce.
Curry is very popular in Cuba because of the Haitian influence, Pernot says. I never thought about curry in Cuban food until I went there.
The same goes for the use of culantro not cilantro, but a completely different plant that is often called spicy cilantro as Pernot uses it generously in dishes such as the Lechon Asado ($23.50), our favorite dish that features Southeast Family Farms Berkshire pulled pork thats marinated for four days before being slow roasted for eight hours then served with classic sour orange mojo over Amarillo chile smashed yucca with black bean broth and Vigoran slaw.
That dish takes five days to get to your plate, Pernot says. And culantro is indigenous to the West Indies. If you dont have that herb, you cant make Cuban food.
Perhaps the best way to experience Cuba Libre is to order some drinks rum and pork are kings in Cuba, Pernot says including authentic mojitos and caipirinhas and some tapas ($16.5 for two, $24 for three, $31 for four).
Theres a lot of family-style eating in Cuba, Pernot says. They love to throw everything at you.
On that tapas menu is another idea Pernot brought home: the Malanga Fritter, a traditional Cuban street food of crispy taro, garlic and West Indian culantro with Tamarindo ketchup. Others with his twist include the spinach and manchego Bunuelos, cheese and spinach puffs with goat cheese ranch sauce and organic olive oil; and citrus-marinated, grilled baby octopus with Haitian eggplant salad, crispy corn chips and truffle.
Capriccio's key to success is listening to feedback Capriccio is proof that getting older doesnt have to be a bad thing. In fact, the iconic At
The Bunuelos is usually done with fried dough, but I made it my own this way, Pernot says. And you can find octopus in all shapes and sizes in Cuba everywhere. It wasnt until I came back that I felt assured of myself in adding it on the menu here. You dont find much truffle in Cuba, but I added it just because. To me, thats what being a chef is all about. Otherwise, you can just pick up a cookbook and follow every recipe.
Another dish found everywhere in Cuba and on the Cuba Libre menu is paella, another Spanish dish. Cuba Libres seafood paella ($31) with shrimp, Maine lobster tail, littleneck clams, mussels, squid, baby octopus and saffron long grain rice is about as good as it gets without getting on a plane.
Rice is a natural grain, so its everywhere there, and they make it with everything from snails and rabbit to blood sausage to chicken and pork. There are thousands of variations.
Even the desserts are homemade at Cuba Libre with traditional dishes such as Tres Leches ($8) and Cuban Flan ($7.50), along with Pernots favorite chocolate torte ($8.50), a fallen chocolate souffle tart layered with dulce de leche topped with dulce de leche ice cream, chocolate orange sauce and blueberry compote and the best banana bread ($7) you may ever have that is butter toasted and served with vanilla or chocolate ice cream and butterscotch sauce.
There are at least 15 to 20 different types of Cuban bananas, Pernot says. You wont find perfect yellow ones like we have here. There they are short, stubby, sweet, sour, creamy, all different varieties. Everyone has a banana plant there.
Pernot and Cuba Libre have a lot of plans to evolve even more. Aside from two additional restaurants in the planning stages, the Atlantic City location will be the first Cuba Libre to feature a wood-burning grill in the front of the restaurant in March.
Wood-burning grills are very typical in Cuban cuisine, so it makes sense, Pernot says. We will do charcoal and wood and make fish, whole pigs, rotisserie, Peking chicken, steaks, vegetables and maybe even flatbreads for lunch. We have so many ideas, and the grill is just one of them, and I think that will really set Atlantic City apart from the others. But as we continue, I want to make Cuba Libre even more traditional. Its fantastic food, and we want to be as authentic as we can so people can really understand how great Cuban cuisine is.
15 Tastes of Cuba
If you have never been to Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar, the best way to initially experience the diverse cuisine is to check out its 15 Taste of Cuba Chefs Tasting Menu, which is not only an amazing culinary experience but an amazing bargain.
Cuba Libre Concept Chef-Partner Guillermo Pernot picked 15 of his favorite dishes, and guests get to try all of them for $39.95 per person 4 to 10 p.m. Sundays to Wednesdays, and 4 to 11 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays.
Heres what you will receive for the ultimate Cuban feast:
Appetizers
Tropical Chips and Dips: black bean hummus, Haitian eggplant salad and Cuba Libre salsa with plantain and malanga chips
Shrimp Ceviche: Cuban-style shrimp cocktail with Latino coctel sauce and avocado salsa
Mama Amelias Empanada de la Casa: Homemade empanada made from Pernots mothers recipe with hand-chopped chicken, corn, Jack cheese and Aji sour cream dipping sauce
Malanga Fritters: A traditional Cuban street food of crispy taro, garlic and West Indian culantro with Tamarind ketchup
Entrees
Churrasco a la Cubana: All-natural, black Angus grilled skirt steak with parsley, lemon and onion sauce
Mahi-Mahi: Fresh mahi filet seared on the griddle with olive oil, Forbidden black rice and squid-lobster-flavored asposado with mojito salsa verde and chipotle allioli
Lechon Asado: Slow-roasted, marinated Southeast Family Farms Berkshire pulled pork with classic sour orange mojo over Amarillo chile smashed yucca with black bean broth and Vigoran slaw
Side Dishes
White Rice with Cuban Black Beans Maduros: Fried, ripened sweet plantains
Desserts
Tres Leches: The classic dessert featuring vanilla sponge cake soaked in three milks with mocha mousse
Cuban Flan: Another traditional ending with vanilla custard, candied mango and papaya salad served with vanilla cookie
WHO IS HE: Ian Edwards is a comedian, actor and writer who grew up in Jamaica and moved to New York when he was a teenager. He began writing on The Keenan Ivory Wayans Show in 1998 and two years later wrote for MTVs Lyricist Lounge. In 2005 Edwards became a regular cast member on MTVs Punkd. His debut comedy album 100% Half-Assed was released in 2014. A year later Edwards starred in the film Tangerine.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Comic Ian Edwards has had a successful, well-rounded career that includes films, television shows, podcasts and a comedy album, but as a stand-up his star is definitely still on the rise. Edwards is the type of comedian who as an audience member you may think hes setting you up for one joke, but then hits you with a punch line in a different direction which makes it twice as funny. Hes not afraid to tackle the most sensitive of subjects and take a unique perspective. His show at Harrahs Resort is definitely worth checking out.
STAFFORD TOWNSHIP Stockton University will expand its instructional site on Bay Road in Manahawkin to include more nursing and health care programs starting in fall 2017.
The university will take over the neighboring 7,915-square-foot site used by Rothman Institute Orthopaedics, which is moving to the new AtlantiCare Health Park on Route 72.
The move will allow Stockton to expand its accelerated nursing program from 13 students to 24. That program allows students who already have a bachelors degree and meet prerequisites to complete a nursing-degree program in four semesters.
Stockton Dean of Health Sciences Theresa Bartolotta said the program will help address the shortage of nurses and the demand for nursing programs. She said Stockton accepted 45 students into its nursing program this year, more than the usual 36, because there were so many qualified applicants.
And we still couldnt accept all that were qualified, she said.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates demand for registered nurses will grow by 16 percent through 2024. This is much faster than the national average for all occupations, which is 7 percent.
The accelerated program may particularly appeal to students who majored in biology or a health-related field, but now want to get into nursing.
We get students who dont decide they want to go into nursing until their junior or senior year, Bartolotta said.
She said the Rothman site is ideal because it is already set up as a medical facility and wont need a lot of renovations.
The estimated cost for renovations is about $200,000, according to information provided by the college.
Bill would require U.S. flag to be displayed at public meetings TRENTON The state Senate last week unanimously passed a bill that would require the U.S. f
The nursing program will be full time. Students will be admitted in the fall and finish at the end of the following fall term. All classes and labs will be held in Manahawkin as of fall 2017. Clinical rotations will be offered in Ocean, Monmouth and Atlantic counties.
The Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, the universitys largest undergraduate major with more than 1,100 students, will also expand into the new facilities in Manahawkin.
The site will make it more convenient for students who live in central New Jersey to attend Stocktons health care programs.
Students wont have to go to Galloway at all, Bartolotta said.
Stockton opened a 3,200-square-foot site in Manhawkin in 2012 with plans to grow if there was enough demand.
Bacterial infection linked to contaminated syringes finds way to South Jersey At least 10 people in Atlantic County and three in Ocean County have contracted a complicate
The new site will allow Stockton to expand its speech and hearing services and eventually to offer an interprofessional clinic where students will serve patients.
Stockton already partners with AtlantiCare and Rothman. Michael West, CEO of Rothman Institute, said in a statement that the expansion will benefit residents in Ocean County and that Rothman looks forward to continuing its partnership with Stockton.
University President Harvey Kesselman said in a statement that there is a need in the region for health care services and professionals.
Stocktons mission is to provide access to a distinctive higher education and develop programs that ultimately improve the quality of life for New Jerseys residents, he said.
Stocktons Nursing Program was ranked 43rd out of 450 schools considered in the Mid-Atlantic region by NursingSchoolsAlmanac.com. The nursing program is approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
NEW YORK Trump. Trump. Clinton. The Obamas dancing like dorks.
Such is the stuff of a recent pre-election morning meeting at The Daily Show headquarters. Trevor Noah enters, water bottle and orange in hand, and wedges himself in among the writers, his back never pressing against the sofa.
Can we talk about Brexit? he asks. I find Brexit fascinating, because in the U.S., people see it as done and dusted.
They talk of Brexit, how British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson resembles a Muppet. But then the discussion swiftly returns to the steady drip of Trump, Trump, Trump.
You may hire a guy for his global perspective, but comedy comes back to the familiar fast.
Last year, after a 16-year reign, Jon Stewart was replaced by a young comedian who is nothing like him: foreign, biracial, cool, GQ-photogenic and utterly unknown to Americans, having appeared on the show only three times before being tapped as the successor.
Noah was given six weeks to create his own version of the program, all during a presidential campaign that became so absurd and unprecedented as to seem the work of deranged comedy writers. (When Trump won, Noah told his audience that it feels like the end of the world.)
At the time, the move seemed unfair, not only to the shows devout audience but also to Stewarts replacement. Nor was Noahs start aided by the discovery of old tweets critical of Jews and heavier women.
Noah remained undaunted. I had no fears, because I was extremely ignorant. It was bliss, the 32-year-old says later, sitting in a makeup room. Only an idiot would take the job after Jon Stewart, and I was that idiot. (This from a man confident enough to conduct an interview while a barber trims a nanometer off his close-cropped hair.)
He took the job, continued doing stand-up on nights off and, oh, wrote an affecting memoir, Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood, which is also a love letter to his mother. The book will be published Tuesday.
The crime was that his birth in 1984 violated South Africas 1927 Immorality Act, which prohibited illicit carnal intercourse between a European male and a native female. As the child of a black mother and a white father in a society that kept the two races strictly separated, Noah has long lived outside rigid racial lines. I never met any kids who were biracial, he says.
His defiant mother was jailed so many times for breaking apartheids severe racial laws and frequenting whites-only areas that I think she even lost count, Noah says.
Before apartheid ended when he was almost 6, young Trevor was kept mostly indoors, often staying in Soweto with his maternal grandmother, who told him, Im afraid they will steal you.
He thought she meant the people in the township where he lived with his mother. (He never lived with his father, a Swiss national residing in South Africa whom his mother, a secretary, met when she was living illegally in a Johannesburg apartment building that prohibited blacks.)
I thought she was being paranoid. And it was only while writing the book, he says, that I realized that she was afraid, rightfully so, that the police would take me.
He couldnt be seen in public with his parents. In my head, I grew up running with my parents, Noah says. His mother told him otherwise: You were chasing your father down the street and I was chasing you because he couldnt be seen with you because of the police.
Because of his lighter skin, Noah was viewed as coloured by society and at school, a racial classification shared by no other member of his black family.
My grandmother was very lenient to me because of my skin color, he says. But often I saw myself as inferior, because I grew up in a black world. I was the only kid who was getting sunburned, the only kid whose skin would show bruises the way it did. I was stared at whether it was a wedding or a funeral or a family gathering with extended members. So, if anything, I didnt see myself as whole or complete or part of a thing.
In his memoir, the comedian portrays his mother, Patricia Noah, as fiercely Christian attending as many as three churches on Sunday (black, white and mixed) and funny, proud and fearless. He writes that she once threw her eldest son from a moving car to save his life and took a bullet to the head from Noahs abusive stepfather and lived to joke about it.
On the bright side, she told Noah from her hospital bed, now youre officially the best-looking person in the family.
Although they remain close, shell never come over, says Noah, who returns home six times a year. I dont even know if she watches the show. He pauses. I dont think she does. (His father, whom he visited on Sundays growing up, eventually returned to Switzerland.)
Noah decided to become a stand-up comedian before he had ever seen one in his country, or before he knew that he could make a living doing such a thing.
Famous is an understatement. Hes mega-famous in South Africa, says Ugandan comedian Joseph Opio. Hes basically the South African comedy industry personified.
Most of the writers and producers as well as the work culture from Stewarts tenure on The Daily Show were retained, but Noah asked Opio and comedian David Kibuuka, who was born in Uganda but later moved to South Africa, to join the writing staff. Says Opio, We share an outsiders voice. In the packed meeting of almost 30 staffers, Noah, Opio and Kibuuka, along with show correspondent Roy Wood Jr., are the only black participants.
The shows Hells Kitchen offices resemble an indoor dog park. The place is fueled by staggering quantities of caffeine and junk food. The latter still astonishes Noah and his African colleagues, who grew up viewing cake as a rarity, not a given. Noahs grandmothers house was not a two-bedroom house. A two-room house, he says, with no running water, and an outdoor communal faucet and a toilet shared by multiple families.
Noah learned quickly that to work with a successful program and a large (108-member) production team, you really have to go for evolution rather than revolution, he says. Because anything you do initially is seen as incorrect.
Critics fault him for appearing too detached on-screen, where Stewart delivered arias of indignation. But Trevor hasnt earned the right to be that angry about whats happening in America, Opio says. And where weve come from, weve seen worse things.
Says Noah, I understand that some people think of me as cold and somewhat dismissive, but the truth is Im genuine.
He lived in the United States previously, from 2010 to 2012, with Los Angeles as his base, and became the first African comedian not South African, from the entire continent to appear on The Tonight Show. (He thinks he is still the only one to have done so.)
I was extremely lonely, he says. Hollywood is like a person that doesnt have time to be with you, but it always wants you to be available.
He went to Britain, toured constantly, then returned to New York. Jon called and said he wanted to hang out, he recalls. So Noah would visit the Daily Show office, sit there and listen to what people were saying. He was given a small desk in a shared office, so that he might contribute some writing. He never thought it would ultimately end in his joining the staff, let alone hosting.
Making the show his own requires patience, though he didnt understand this when he first arrived. When I started, I had lofty ideas of what I was going to do, he says, and I thought I would do it within 100 days, and I would change everything.
Fast and all at once wasnt going to work. I learned, Noah says. The show was my Guantanamo.
Nor is the writing staffs task easy. Its very difficult writing for me, he says. You are writing for a biracial South African, who is from a world you cannot lock down. You cannot understand my experience. It is the black experience, but its a different black experience.
So, to help his audience understand, he did what only he could do, and wrote the story of his childhood.
Whats in a name? Well, a lot, actually.
So much so, 60 percent of voters in North Wildwood recently rejected a push to change the citys name back to Anglesea.
Understanding Angleseas origins, which comes from the Anglesey Islands in Wales, is part of digging into toponymy the study of place names a topic Lee Ireland, author of Place Names of the Jersey Shore: Why Did They Name it That? knows all about.
You could really say it was lifelong in the making because some of the oldest entries in there date back to when my late father would take us fishing and crabbing in the bay waters behind Ocean City and Margate, said the Egg Harbor Township resident.
The book covers 300 names around Atlantic and Cape May counties, almost half of which Ireland said are references to people, while others took their names from geographic features or Native American roots.
In his research, he said, a few stuck out that were surprising, such as the Mullica River, which he always thought derived from a Native American word.
Come to find out, it was named after a Swede, Eric Mullica, who was the European to discover it, he said.
Other origins of town names, and their settlers, can be equally surprising:
Absecon (Atlantic County) Absecon is a Algonquin Indian word that means Little, on the other side of water, according to Irelands sources.
Atlantic City (Atlantic County) Named, unsurprisingly, after the Atlantic Ocean. However, Irelands book notes that other old names included Absecum Beach, Further Island, Faraway Island, Leeds Plantation and Absecum Island.
Bargaintown (Atlantic County) June Sheridan of the Greate Egg Harbor Township Historical Society jokes that the name didnt come from great bargains.
Theres a lot of legend and lore but mainly the one is James Somers had slaves and lived on what is now the Linwood side of Egg Harbor Township, Sheridan said. He supposedly made a deal with his slaves after they finished working in the fields for him, if they built a walkway or a dam across the Patcong Creek, he would supposedly set them free.
Beesleys Point (Cape May County) William Goldin, fleeing Ireland after the defeat of King James II, became the first settler. According to Press archives, Goldins Point sticks until 171 when it becomes Willets Point and then Stites Point in 1750. Not until 1803, when Thomas Beesley becomes owner, does the name endure.
Brigantine (Atlantic County) Originally known as the shoals to New England whalers who built temporary shacks on he beach, Brigantine took its name after a shipwreck in 1710, according to Irelands book.
Buena, Buena Vista Township (Atlantic County) Buena Vista, Spanish for good view, takes its name after the Battle of Buena Vista in Mexico during the Mexican-American War. Its origins didnt surprise Ireland at all when he came across it during his research.
We had a dog in the fight, American soldiers involved. We were taking injuries, theres a lot of bravado going on, he said of the war. The same thing is true for Rio Grande, there was a lot of battles taking place along that river.
Cape May (Cape May County) When Dutch explorer Cornelius Jacobsen Mey arrived to the peninsula by boat in 1622, he liked it so much he gave it his name.
Egg Harbor (Atlantic County) Egg Harbor City, Egg Harbor Township, Little Egg Harbor Township, Great Egg Harbor Bay, Egg Habor Bay theres a lot of Egg Harbors in South Jersey to say the least. But the name doesnt come from the smell of the bay at low tide.
Ireland found that Dutch explorers, again, get the credit after they dubbed the area Eyren Haven, Harbor of Eggs, for the sea bird and turtle nests filled with eggs.
The Dutch explorer in question who enjoyed the view? Cornelius Jacobsen Mey again gets credit for that name, Sheridan said.
Ocean City (Cape May County) Ocean City was originally called Pecks Beach after whaler John Peck. It was later renamed in 1879 by three brothers Samuel Wesley, James and Erza Lake along with Methodist minister William Burrell, according to Irelands book. The men hoped Ocean City could become a temperance resort.
Sea Isle City (Cape May County) Called Ludlam Bay, the town has a connection to Vineland through shared founder Charles Landis. The town was originally laid out to include canals as a little Venice of sorts but didnt seem to pan out.
According to Press archives, Landis wasnt just a prolific land developer; he was a murderer too. After shooting a newspaper editor in the back of the head, Landis was later acquitted on grounds of temporary insanity around 1875.
Ship Bottom (Ocean County) Bill Shannon, volunteer at the Ocean County Historical Society, said that Vivian Zinkins book Place names of Ocean County from 1609 to 1849 points to an actual ship bottom after a wreck washed up along the shore. Supposedly, a rich Tuckerton Quaker found a survivor inside the bottom of the boat. Who the survivor was varies in different accounts.
Somers Point (Atlantic County) Named after the Somers family, who were early settlers of the area.
We were called Somerset Plantation, then Summers Point, then eventually Somers Point after the Somers family, said Sally Hastings, president of the Somers Point Historical Society.
One of the most notable citizens, Richard Somers, whose great-grandfather built Somers Mansion on Shore Road, fought and died in the Barbary War after an explosion on his ship the Intrepid.
Vineland (Cumberland County) According to Press archives, founder Charles Landis recruited Italian grape-growers to the area because it was ideal for vineyards, taking on the moniker Vineland. However, Landis wanted the area to remain alcohol-free, which led dentist Thomas Bramwell Welch to invent an unfermented grape juice in 1869.
The juice company eventually moved, but the name stuck.
Wildwood (Cape May County) According to Irelands book, Wildwood likely got its name from its wild vegetation. But before there was a Wildwood, there was a Holly Beach, which also took is name from its robust plant life.
Holly Beach was formed in 1885. Holly Beach went from Ceder Avenue down to Cresse (Avenue), said North Wildwood City historian Scott Jett.
Holly Beach was formed through several investors, including Aaron Andrew, who came to the area to improve the health of his wife, Sarah, and created the Holly Beach Improvement Co.
Andrew became friendly with other investors Joseph Taylor and John Burk, who was friendly with Charles Landis. Small world?
But the men werent the only Vinelanders scouting out the five-mile island.
Brothers Philip, Latimer and Thompson Baker turned their eyes to Wildwood after finding development success in Vineland, developing their own Wildwood Redevelopment Company.
In 1895, the area between 26th and Cedar was incorporated as the borough of Wildwood. Then in 1912, Wildwood and Holly Beach combined, they consolidated, to form Wildwood, Jett said.
Further south, Turtle Gut Inlet, which ran from the Atlantic Ocean to Sunset Lake in Wildwood Crest, was once the site of a naval battle against the British forces during the Revolutionary War. Though the patriots were victorious, the spot was later filled with sand, connecting Five Mile Beach with Two Mile Beach in the 1920s.
Vadells shooter killed, officer testifies
{child_byline}VINCENT JACKSON
Staff Writer
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MAYS LANDING An Atlantic County Prosecutors Office investigator on Monday said the suspect who shot Atlantic City Police Officer Joshlee Vadell, 29, in the head was the same man killed when Vadells partner returned fire.
And the gun allegedly used to shoot Vadell was reported stolen out of another state, Lt. Thomas Finan testified at a probable-cause hearing in Superior Court for one of two alleged accomplices, Millville resident Martel D. Chisolm.
The testimony revealed some additional details from the Sept. 3 shooting near the Caesars Atlantic City parking garage that injured Vadell.
Prosecutors are pursuing attempted-murder charges against Chisolm and Demetris Cross, who will have a probable-cause hearing in December.
Finan testified Jerome Damon, 25, of Camden, had the gun when prosecutors allege he, Cross and Chisolm robbed three victims at about 2:30 a.m. as Vadell drove past.
One of the victims yelled, Hey, they are robbing us, Finan said.
Police have said Vadell was shot when he and his partner got out of their car to investigate the robbery.
Witnesses said they heard a pop, and Damon, the person shooting at Vadell, was running, Finan said. Vadells partner, who has not been identified, returned fire and killed Damon, police said.
Assistant Prosecutor Seth Levy argued Chisolms participation in the robbery also put him on the hook for attempted murder.
Superior Court Judge Bernard DeLury heard enough Monday to decide the attempted murder case against Chisolm should move forward.{span class=print_trim}(tncms-asset)104affe0-a90b-11e6-a4dd-00163ec2aa77(/tncms-asset)
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Chisolms lawyer, Robin Kay Lord, said after hearing testimony from Finan that she didnt hear any facts suggesting Chisolm was involved in an attempted murder and very little evidence as far as her client and a robbery.
Under cross examination from Lord, Finan said Chisolm never displayed a gun. Chisolms fingerprints were not found on anything, and the gun cannot be seen during the robbery on video footage, Finan said.
The gun that was recovered was reported stolen from another state and was found in the Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino parking lot, Finan said.
Information from the victims along with upward of a dozen video surveillance recordings police looked at led to the identification of Chisolm, Finan said.
Chisolm was arrested 12 to 14 hours after the incident, Finan said.
Chisolm and co-defendant Cross, 28, of Bridgeton, are being held on $750,000 bail each at the Atlantic County jail.
The men also face robbery and weapons charges. Cross is scheduled for a probable-cause hearing Dec. 12, but that may change based on the availability of the attorneys.
Vadell was discharged Nov. 8 from the Drucker Brain Injury Unit at MossRehab in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania.
The two suspects were arrested by State Police on Sept. 3.
In addition to attempted murder, Chisolm and Cross are each charged with three counts of robbery, two counts of conspiracy to commit robbery, two counts of possession of a weapon (firearm) for an unlawful purpose and two counts of conspiracy to commit possession of a firearm for an unlawful purpose.
A GoFundMe account called This Blue Life Matters has been set up for Vadell and his family. The goal is currently $200,000. More than 1,259 people had donated $123,056 as of Monday.
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PLEASANTVILLE The Police Department has been denied a federal grant that would have allowed it to fund a gunshot-audio detection system.
But police Chief Sean Riggin said they arent giving up and will apply for the grant again next year.
Riggin said the grant would help cover the $560,000 cost of the ShotSpotter system for three years. ShotSpotter uses sensors to triangulate sounds and determine whether they are gunshots or some other noise and then alerts officers to the location of the gunshots.
The overwhelming majority of Atlantic County shootings are happening in Atlantic City and Pleasantville, and Atlantic City is tracking these shootings and we are not, said Riggin, who prepared the grant.
Pleasantville police hold second Coffee with a Cop event PLEASANTVILLE Residents and police officers got together Friday afternoon to share a cup o
The Police Department applied for the Technology Information for Public Safety grant through the US Department of Justice in April shortly after a bullet entered a home on Franklin Boulevard and struck Olga Ceron, 48, in the foot while she held her 8-month-old grandson, David.
The Atlantic City Police Department deployed ShotSpotter in May 2013 with funding from the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority.
Riggin said the lack of ShotSpotter creates an intelligence gap in Pleasantville when it comes to detecting crime.
So far this year, the city has seen 95 shooting incidents and two shooting homicides, said Capt. Matthew Hartman. Pleasantville saw five shooting homicides last year.
Joshlee Vadell fundraisers include tattoos, food and raffles Multiple fundraising drives will be held this weekend for wounded Atlantic City police Offic
Riggin said 60 TIPS grant applications were submitted nationwide and just six grants of $500,000 were awarded this year.
The citys application did not include a mechanism for sharing intelligence from ShotSpotter, Riggin said, adding the next application will.
The department just signed an agreement with the State Police Regional Operations Intelligence Center to assign a full-time detective to the facility to assist with investigations in the city.
These crimes are so related and people are migrating from Atlantic City into Pleasantville to perpetuate violence and theres no help for us for ShotSpotter, Mayor Jesse Tweedle said. We are not going to give up on that ShotSpotter. We are going to get that. We need it, and I think about it every time I hear of a shooting.
The Dutch counterterrorism coordinator is warning that if the Islamic State group's self-declared caliphate collapses it could trigger an increase in militant fighters returning home and compound the threat of an attack in the Netherlands.
The warning came Monday in the latest Terrorist Threat Assessment for the Netherlands, which left the threat level in the country unchanged at level four on a five-step scale. Level four means that there is a real chance of an attack, but there are "no specific indications that an attack is being prepared."
The Netherlands hasn't been hit by a major attack by Islamic extremists such as those in Belgium and France, but the government warns that both IS and al-Qaida have a presence in the nation of 17 million.
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OCEAN CITY On New Years Eve, Mark Soifer will spend his last hours as Ocean Citys publicist doing what he usually does: organizing, directing and probably cracking jokes.
In another 10 years, they wont remember me, he said, laughing.
But it would be hard to forget the man who for decades found success boosting the city with wildly original promotions that reflected his personality and humor.
Hermit crab beauty pageants. A quiet festival that includes a yawn-along to the tune of Beautiful Dreamer.
Marks legacy is his uniqueness and his kind touch to so many people. Hes touched thousands of people, and hes brought such great ideas to Ocean City, said Michele Gillian, executive director of the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce.
Soifer, 84, who retires at the end of the year, came to Ocean City in the 1960s to help the late Jim Penland, who was organizing a Boardwalk Art Show. In 1971, Soifer began working full time for the city. That was the same year now-retired City Clerk Linda MacIntyre started.
Early on, Soifer decided to go all-in on hermit crabs, starting with the Miss Crustacean hermit crab beauty pageant.
We thought, Is this really going to bring people in? But it did. And it made the city what it is because of all of his innovative ideas, MacIntyre said. Who would have thought that a hermit crab would have brought so many people in?
Soifer said not everyone was a fan of the crustacean.
One time, right after I started Martin Mollusk, I was walking up the steps (at City Hall) and some guy yelled, How can you have a hermit crab represent Ocean City? Soifer said.
He wasnt deterred.
Soon, Martin Z. Mollusk became synonymous with the city.
In an Ocean City sweatshirt and a hat from NASCRAB the official sponsor of Ocean Citys annual hermit crab races Soifer set up for the kickoff to this years Quiet Festival last week.
The event, another of Soifers wacky ideas, was held in a park named for Soifer directly across from City Hall. The site previously housed the City Hall Annex building, where Soifer worked for more than 30 years.
This is my favorite place, Soifer said of the park. This is like an oasis in the downtown.
Over the years, Soifer has started events like Weird Week which includes his favorite contest, Little Mr. and Miss Chaos, inspired by his own grandchildren the Doo Dah Parade, Martin Z. Mollusk Day, the King and Queen of Plop and, most recently, Mr. Mature America.
The downtown was a particular beneficiary of Soifers wild ideas.
He has just such a great mind, said Walt Hohman, owner of Wards Pastry, which has been on Asbury Avenue for about 90 years.
From his Trash Buster character to the Doo Dah Parade, Hohman said, Soifer always had fresh ideas.
Its great for business. It brings people to the town and gets people talking about it. Hes just a marketing guru as far as keeping the name out there. Thats what makes Americas Greatest Family Resort, Hohman said.
Some people might say there is no one else quite like Mark Soifer although his twin brother, Jesse, might disagree.
Hermine washed out beach tag sales for many shore towns A Labor Day weekend storm that mostly skirted the Jersey Shore may have put a damper on what
Hes probably one of the most creative people Ive ever worked with, said Ron MacCloskey, of Edison, who often portrays various characters during Soifers events, including Dr. Frankenstein.
In recent years, the two brought a Frankenstein exhibit to the city library during the month of October.
For a long time, Soifer was a one-man show, supported by City Hall staff. Last year, Ocean City hired Doug Bergen to serve as public information officer. Ocean City Theatre Company Director Michael Hartman has also joined to assist with special events.
Each week, Soifer writes a column about what is happening in Ocean City, giving tidbits of history and adding humor. He has also written eight books of poetry. He said he will continue to write after he retires.
I know Im never going to be a famous poet, but I get a lot of pleasure writing poetry, Soifer said.
Ocean City historian Fred Miller said he looked to Soifer for guidance when he began doing public relations for the Beach Patrol.
Since then, Miller has written nine books with his wife, Susan, who died last year. Soifer was featured in several of them, including Local Legends of Ocean City.
Soifer was honored as Citizen of the Year in 1993 and Citizen of the Decade in 2013, despite never having lived in Ocean City.
Soifer and his wife, Toby, live in Vineland. He has commuted to work for 45 years.
Thats about 300 miles a week, he said.
He said he never moved to Ocean City because of his four children who were very devoted to Vineland and due to the high cost of living on the island.
How much are homes selling for near you? Transactions are from county property records. Settlement dates are listed; deed filings may
This year is the 25th anniversary of Ocean Citys First Night celebration, which Soifer helped usher in. Inspired by Bostons alcohol-free, family-friendly First Night, this years celebration will be Soifers last official event working for the city.
I just want to be here and see it be a success, he said.
The event has grown tremendously since it began and now sees about 10,000 attendees a year. Its just one of many of Soifers ideas to grow the city into a year-round destination.
Well, I helped, he said.
UPDATE: Kaitlyn George was found safe as of Wednesday morning, university police said.
Shortly after 8 a.m. Wednesday, university police got confirmation that the Houston Police Department located George, alone and OK, at a fast food restaurant in Houston.
On Nov. 11, George was seen on security video entering a Greyhound bus station in Baltimore, and got on a bus that was headed toward Norfolk, Virginia.
Originally posted Nov. 14:
Police are still searching for a 21-year-old student from southern Ocean County who went missing from the University of Maryland Thursday, university police said Sunday night.
Kaitlyn George, who is from Toms River, was reported missing to the University of Maryland Police Department around 6:36 p.m. Thursday, according to a statement from police.
University police said in the statement that George was supposed to meet a friend at Eppley Recreation Center, the gymnasium on the campus, around 5 p.m. to go hiking. When George didn't show up, the friend went to the police station to report her missing, police said.
George was last seen by her roommates leaving her dorm building, Allegany Hall, after 4 p.m. with a black and white camping backpack and pink canvas bag.
University of Maryland police released a timeline of what the investigation has revealed so far. Security video footage shows George leaving Allegany Hall around 4:42 p.m. Thursday.
Around 4:34 p.m., a white taxi cab was seen entering the campus via the South Gate. Police believe George entered a white taxi cab at 4:44 p.m. in front of another dorm building, Annapolis Hall, by herself and on her own accord, the statement from police said.
Police said after investigators interviewed the taxi driver, they believe George was dropped off in front of a marina in the Federal Hill section of Baltimore, about 30 miles from the College Park campus.
UMPD met with Baltimore City Police Department and reviewed security footage of the marina area, which showed George getting into an SUV, on her own accord and by herself, the statement said.
Police said a witness confirmed seeing George Friday morning around 8:40 a.m. on a Charm City Circulator bus.
UPDATE: Photo of missing UMD student, Kaitlyn George leaving Allegany Hall on 11/10/16, at approx. 4:42 p.m. https://t.co/xTDlVYlRMf pic.twitter.com/Pmc6cMX011 UMD Police Dept. (@UMPD) November 11, 2016
George is described as 5-foot-3-inches, about 121 pounds, with hazel eyes and blonde hair. She was last seen wearing black leggings, a green, long sleeved jacket, and bright colored mid-calf socks.
We have no reason to suspect foul play in this case, University of Maryland Police said in a statement. Our team of investigators will continue to work on this case until we have located Kaitlyn and have verified that she is okay.
Anyone who has information about Georges whereabouts should call the University of Maryland Police Department at 301-405-3555.
Social Security increase doesnt reflect senior costs
I would like to thank the Social Security Administration for the gigantic 0.03 percent cost-of-living increase, which is much better than last years increase of 0 percent.
The reason given for these miniscule increases is that the cost of living has not gone up. Well, heres a tip, bucko. The cost of living for senior citizens is not the same as it is for younger people.
In my case, out-of-pocket medical for my wife and I exceeded $13,000. This is a hard burden for people on a fixed income. In addition, we have to pay others for services that we can no longer do ourselves.
So I recommend senior citizens invest in cat food. That stock should be soaring, since more and more of us will be eating it as a main course.
Donald L. French
Bridgeton
Popular vote alone would ignore many Americans
The argument that the popular vote instead of the electoral system should determine an election winner would only make sense if each state had the same number of residents.
As it is now, presidential candidates would campaign only in California, New York and other high-population states. Smaller populated states would never see a candidate, such as states in the middle of the country.
California and New York are traditionally Democratic blue states and we would be a single political party country without any debates or different points of views to consider.
The current electoral system is the only fair way to get the entire countrys populace involved and to consider the wants and needs of each demographic area.
If it aint broke, dont fix it.
Robert E. Dwyer
Mays Landing
Special auto policy hits law-abiding drivers hard
In 2009, a law allowing a special, personal-injury-protection-only auto policy was added to N.J. motor vehicle laws with no regard for law-abiding citizens. This law allows certain drivers to legally register and operate a vehicle without any liability coverage whatsoever.
If you are hit by such people, your vehicle damage is your problem. If you try to file a claim with your own carrier, you must pay a deductible as outlined in your policy, you are subject to surcharge fees for at least three years, and if you do this you cannot change insurance companies in the near future as you have become a high-risk driver.
After 50 years of accident-free driving, this happened to me. Repair estimates are from $2,700 to 3,000 with a $1,000 deductible plus three years of approximately $400-plus in surcharges. The choice is pay for the damage myself or pay at least $2,200.00.
This is another fine example of the liberal state Legislatures total disregard for law-abiding voters of New Jersey.
We voters have no one to blame but ourselves. We keep re-electing these scoundrels. Its time for change.
Bud Hughes
North Wildwood
From Afghanistan to Algeria, militants plan to use Donald Trump's shock U.S. presidential victory as a propaganda tool to bring new fighters to their battlefields.
Taliban commanders and Islamic State group supporters say Trump's campaign trail rhetoric against Muslims - at one point calling for a total shutdown of Muslims entering the United States - will play perfectly in their recruitment efforts, especially for disaffected youth in the West.
"This guy is a complete maniac. His utter hate towards Muslims will make our job much easier because we can recruit thousands," Abu Omar Khorasani, a top IS group commander in Afghanistan, told Reuters.
Trump has talked tough against militant groups on the campaign trail, promising to defeat "radical Islamic terrorism just as we won the Cold War."
The president-elect later toned down his call for a total ban on Muslim entry to say he would temporarily suspend immigration from countries that have "a history of exporting terrorism."
But he has offered few details on his plans to combat various radical groups, including IS group, the Taliban and al Qaeda, which represent a wide spectrum of political views.
"He does not differentiate between militant and moderate Islamist trends and, at the same time, he overlooks (the fact) that his extremism will generate extremism in return," Iraq's powerful Shia Muslim cleric Moqtada al-Sadr said in a statement.
Sadr's political reform movement, which commands thousands of followers, is a staunch opponent of the radical Sunni movements IS group and al Qaeda, and unlike them has not waged or promoted attacks in the West.
The United States has seen a handful of attacks inspired by Islamist militant groups, including the June massacre of 49 people at an Orlando nightclub by a gunman who called a TV station swearing allegiance to IS group and the killing of 14 people at a San Bernadino, California, social services agency last December.
U.S. officials have warned the country will likely face a higher risk of similar attacks as IS group urges supporters to launch attacks at home instead of joining its fight in the Middle East.
"Our leaders were closely following the U.S. election but it was unexpected that the Americans will dig their own graves and they did so," said IS's Khorasani, who described President Barack Obama as a moderate infidel with at least a little brain in comparison to Trump.
Al Qaeda, which has proven resilient more than 15 years after launching the Sept. 11 attacks on New York and the Pentagon, has yet to comment on Trump's victory.
The militant group will likely respond after Trump's first speeches as president, anticipating they will be able to exploit his comments to win support, said Hisham al Hashemi, who advises the Iraqi government on Sunni militant movements.
"Al Qaeda is known for its recruitment strategy that heavily quotes speeches of the White House and other Western officials," he told Reuters.
Trump's office did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the statements from the militants.
Even if Trump tones down his anti-Muslim comments when he takes office in January, analysts say his statements during the campaign trail were enough to fuel the militants' propaganda machine.
"Militants will still use those quotes," said Matthew Henman, head of IHS Jane's Terrorism and Insurgency Centre.
"The key thing militant groups, particularly Islamic State group and al Qaeda, depend on for recruitment purposes is convincing Muslims in the Western world that the West hates them and won't ever accept them as part of their society."
A senior Taliban commander in Afghanistan said the group, whose resurgence is undermining efforts to end America's longest war, had kept track of all of Trump's speeches and anti-Muslim comments.
"If he does what he warned in his election campaign, I am sure it will provoke Muslim Ummah (community) across the world and militant organizations can exploit it," said the militant leader, who declined to be identified because of strict Taliban policy that only its official spokesman can make statements.
Shortly after Trump's victory, several militant sympathizers took to social media to declare this as an opportunity for their cause.
"The dog Trump's victory in the U.S. elections is a gold mine for Muslims not a setback if they know how to use it," tweeted @alhlm200, who regularly posts statements in support of Islamic State.
And in Algeria, @salil_chohada, an Islamic State supporter whose name on the Twitter account is Mohamed Aljazairie, said: "Congratulations to the Muslim nation over the infidel Trump's victory. His stupid statements alone serve us."
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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.
President Barack Obama spoke by phone on Monday with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto about the economy, organized crime and migration, the White House said in a statement.
The presidents agreed to "take steps to solidify the relationship and institutionalize mechanisms of cooperation," the White House said.
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Egypt will hold its first international tender for gold mining concessions since 2009 in early December, Petroleum Minister Tarek El Molla said at an economic conference on Monday.
Geologists say that Egypt has mineral-rich territory that could be ripe for mining, but investors have said that commercial terms offered in previous tenders were unattractive and have kept the sector underdeveloped.
Last year the government said it wanted mining to increase its contribution to GDP to more than 5 percent from the less than 1 percent currently.
Egypt, which has had to contend with a severe dollar shortage since tourists and investors fled after the country's 2011 uprising, announced this year that it would hold a bidding round for new mining concessions but the tender has been delayed repeatedly.
Molla said that Centamin's Sukari mine, Egypt's sole gold-exporting mine, had paid the government $40 million in profits and $80 million in concession fees since last July.
The December bidding round would be the first since 2009, when a global gold-mining boom brought a handful of first-time investors to Egypt despite what some said were poor commercial terms.
Most of these investors left after the 2011 uprising, driven away by growing political turmoil and falling global gold prices.
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LONDON, November 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --
The Society of Authors and the Authors' Licensing & Collecting Society are delighted to announce the shortlist for the 2016 Educational Writers' Award, the UK's only award for educational writing which stimulates and enhances the learning experience.
The three outstanding books on this year's shortlist bring alive the rich language of Shakespeare, the endless possibilities of art, and the beautiful intricacies of maths for readers aged between 11-18 years.
OXFORD ILLUSTRATED SHAKESPEARE DICTIONARY
Authors: David & Ben Crystal
Illustrator: Kate Bellamy
(Publisher: Oxford University Press)
This illustrated dictionary, compiled by the renowned English language expert David Crystal and his Shakespearean actor and producer son Ben, aims to unlock the mysteries of Shakespeare's world, words and language. Over 4,000 words are clearly explained, with examples from the twelve most-studied and performed plays, and the book also includes thematic sections which illuminate a wide range of topics from Armour and Colours to Occupations and Ships.
Our judges said: Far more than a dictionary, this visually appealing treasure chest is fun as well as informative, and gives a real insight into Shakespeare's language and the rich world of his plays. With its wonderful variety of layout, colour and pace, you could spend hours with this book, dipping into the richness of Elizabethan life. There is an amazing range of information, from the finer points of swearing to the influence of cosmology and the details of armour. Whether you are encountering Shakespeare for the first time, or studying his work at A-level, it will help to make sense of the "unconsidered trifles" whilst also illuminating a world both familiar and strange.
THE SCHOOL OF ART
Author: Teal Triggs
Illustrator: Daniel Frost
(Publisher: Wide Eyed Editions)
Learn how to make great art with this illustrated collection of forty informative lessons, which introduces the key principles underpinning all good design, from composition and colour to line, shape and perspective. Each lesson is led by one of the School of Art's five expert professors who together demonstrate key concepts never previously brought together in a children's art compendium, and the book also includes a wealth of suggestions for art activities.
Our judges said: At a time when creative subjects are coming under increasing pressure in the secondary curriculum, this very well-executed book has enormous depth and breadth, and offers the opportunity for forty weeks of serious study and application for independently-minded students who would like to immerse themselves in the School of Art's friendly but challenging curriculum. Engagingly written, it is beautifully clear and light-hearted - but never childish, and has the potential both to build artists, and help the rest of us understand the techniques of the artworks we encounter.
THIS IS NOT A MATHS BOOK: A SMART ART ACTIVITY BOOK
Author: Anna Weltman
Illustrators: Edward Cheverton & Ivan Hissey
(Publisher: Ivy Kids)
Discover how maths can be artistic, and art can be mathematical with this graphic activity book, full of drawing challenges that have a mathematical basis. From simple geometric patterns to fractal art, anamorphic art, and Celtic knots, discover the beauty in maths, and the maths in beauty. Whether you're a maths whizz or just a daring doodler, this book is a graphic guide to smart art.
Our judges said: This is of course, a maths book; just not maths as you thought you knew it. With sheer visual pleasure on every page, it makes you itch to take up a pencil and get started on the designs. It's such an original idea: a book that marries art and maths and helps make sense of quite complex concepts without making you think you're doing anything in the slightest bit difficult. And it makes you so much more aware of the beauty of maths, and its close relationship to art. It taught us more about both subjects than we've learned in aeons!
Now in its ninth year, the Educational Writers' Award was established in 2008 by the Authors' Licensing & Collecting Society (ALCS) and the Society of Authors (SoA) "to celebrate educational writing that inspires creativity and encourages students to read widely and build up their understanding of a subject beyond the requirements of exam specifications".
The 2016 Award focused on books for 11-18 year olds, published in 2014 and 2015.
This year's judges are secondary school English teacher and author Jonathan Lomas; award-winning author and international expert on adolescence Nicola Morgan; and school librarian Nicky Ransley.
The winner of the 2016 Educational Writers' Award will be announced at the All Party Writers Group (APWG) Winter Reception at the House of Commons on Tuesday 6th December. The winning author will receive a cheque for 2,000.
#EWA16
EDITOR'S NOTES
The Society of Authors (SoA)
The Society of Authors is a trade union for all types of writers, illustrators and literary translators, and has been advising individuals and speaking out for the profession for more than a century. The SoA administers many other prizes and grants, including the Baileys Women's Prize for Fiction, the Sunday Times EFG Short Story Award and the Betty Trask Award. It distributed more than 400,000 in prizes and grants in 2015.
societyofauthors.org
Authors' Licensing & Collecting Society (ALCS)
Authors' Licensing and Collecting Society (ALCS) is a not-for-profit organisation for the benefit of all types of writers. Owned by its members, the ALCS collects money due for secondary uses of writers' work. It is designed to support authors and their creativity, ensure they receive fair payment, and see their rights are respected. It promotes and teaches the principles of copyright and campaigns for a fair deal. Today we represent around 90,000 members, and since 1977 have paid over 400 million to writers.
alcs.co.uk
2016 Educational Writers' Award #EWA16
SOURCE Authors Licensing and Collecting Society (ALCS)
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Asia Plantation Capital Berhad is proud to be the first company in Malaysia (and indeed the Asian market) to receive regulatory approval for its agarwood plantation investment programme.
Photo - http://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20161114/8521607402-a
After initial approval in August 2016, Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia (SSM) - the Companies Commission of Malaysia - has officially confirmed the final approval for the company to market its agarwood plantation investment programme both in Malaysia and on the international market, thereby establishing Asia Plantation Capital as the preeminent plantation management company in the region.
SSM is a statutory body in Malaysia that regulates companies and businesses, and is the country's leading authority for the improvement of corporate governance, and compliance with businesses registration and corporate legislation. As an enforcement body, SSM lays down stringent guidelines, all of which have been met by Asia Plantation Capital for its plantation project in Batu Pahat, Johor, Malaysia.
Photo - http://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20161114/8521607402-b
"We are very proud and honoured to be the first company in Asia to have been given official regulatory approval for our vertically integrated agarwood plantation investments," said Steve Watts, CEO, Asia Plantation Capital Berhad, "as we firmly believe that the industry as a whole needs comprehensive regulation. The Asia Plantation Capital Group has always led the way in promoting a regulated agarwood industry in Asia. It's taken a lot of hard work from our respective teams to ensure that our business model, at all stages of the process, is transparent, ethical, and meets the standards set by the SSM and our independent consultant. While this is a significant milestone for us as a company," Watts concluded, "we believe that all companies operating in the plantation investment sector in Asia should be regulated in this manner, not only for good corporate governance, but also for the protection of investors. As far as we're concerned, it's absolutely essential that the two go hand in hand."
The agarwood plantation industry is growing at an exponential rate in Asia, and Asia Plantation Capital, with its ground-breaking and award-winning 'soil to oil' vertically integrated business model, is now the largest company in the region. The company has its own plantations, along with those it manages for private and institutional clients, as well as its own factories now producing a myriad of end products utilising the Oud that is produced from its agarwood trees. Asia Plantation Capital's proprietary inoculation and distillation systems have set new industry standards, and firmly established the company at the forefront of the sector.
Photo - http://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20161114/8521607402-c
There have been breakthroughs recently in the anti-ageing consumer sector, and this is expected to greatly increase the demand for Oud in the pharmaceutical and skincare industries. Asia Plantation Capital is also at the cutting edge of a burgeoning body of scientific research into the effectiveness of Oud in the treatment of various forms of cancer. Credit goes to its Scientific Advisory Board, which is comprised of leading academics and industry experts.
The current global market for pure Oud, Oud oils and wood chips is estimated to be US$12 billion per year, and this value is augmented by the US$40 billion per annum fragrance industry. The demand for sustainable supplies of pure Oud is surging, and, as it takes between seven and 15 years for plantations to yield commercial supplies, it comes as no surprise to see a dramatic increase in the number of companies offering investment and plantation management services.
Experience and expertise, however, count for a great deal in the plantation sector, and Asia Plantation Capital has already proven itself to be an industry leader due to its ability to innovate and its recognition of the need for proprietary technologies. After extensive research, Asia Plantation Capital has established that only pure, natural Oud contains the compounds that have now been scientifically proven to be effective in the treatment of cancer and anti-ageing. This in turn has led to an increase in demand for the 'real thing', and an attendant increase in the need and demand for sustainable plantations.
The international cosmetics and skincare industry alone is worth an estimated US$460 billion per annum (according to 2014 figures), with the global skincare industry alone estimated by statista.com to be in the region of US$121 billion for 2016. This has encouraged Asia Plantation Capital to form collaborations with highly-regarded Swiss skincare laboratories to create a new range of Oud-based active ingredients for the ever-expanding industry.
Asia Plantation Capital and its group of associated companies are not to the only ones to have perceived the potential in a growing market, and this has driven the imperative to ensure that tight regulations are in place and adhered to, conforming to the relevant values of transparency and sustainability. It couldn't be more timely, therefore, for Asia Plantation Capital's agarwood investment programmes to receive the seal of approval from the Companies Commission of Malaysia, the country's principal corporate regulator.
"We are very pleased that Asia Plantation Capital has met the very stringent regulatory standards imposed by the Companies Commission of Malaysia," said CT Choo, Asia Plantation Capital's legal counsel in Malaysia. "The regulator has been very positive in responding to Asia Plantation Capital's application, which is regarded as a fine example of the type of cutting-edge agroforestry sector development programme that Malaysia wants to encourage. We believe that all companies operating in this sector should be regulated, not only to protect investors, but also to ensure that only sustainable supplies of Oud enter the supply chain. The harvesting of wild agarwood trees was banned by CITES* in 2000, and the Aquilaria tree, from which agarwood is derived, is still an endangered species in the wild, with many companies and individuals still exploiting this illegal and unethical side of the industry. Asia Plantation Capital has set the right tone not only in seeking regulatory approval, but in proving that it has the systems and corporate infrastructure in place with which to meet all the requirements for obtaining it."
Notes for Editors
For further information, please contact:-
Zaahira Muhammad
Senior PR & Marketing Executive
Email: zaahira@asiaplantationcapital.com
Office: +6012-203-5344
Samantha Tham
PR & Marketing Executive
Email: samantha.tham@asiaplantationcapital.com
Mobile: +65-9144-0933
* The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
About Asia Plantation Capital Berhad
Asia Plantation Capital Berhad is part of the Asia Plantation Capital Group, which is one of the world's fastest growing plantation management companies, leading the way in sapling cultivation, forestry growth, pioneering inoculation methods, harvesting techniques, distillation methods and product processing, while bringing important economic benefits to local communities.
About Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia
Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia (SSM) is the Companies Commission of Malaysia, formed in April 2002 after a merger between the Registrar of Companies (ROC) and the Registrar of Businesses (ROB). It serves as an agency to incorporate companies and register businesses, and provides both company and business information to the Malaysian public. SSM comprehensively enforces business registration and corporate legislation compliance, and is responsible for monitoring all activities and developments in Malaysia's corporate and business sectors.
Related Links
https://www.asiaplantationcapital.com/
SOURCE Asia Plantation Capital
Irregular migration has been a major concern for European policy-makers this year, which has seen migrant deaths in the Mediterranean hit a record 3,600 so far.
Al-Ahram Arabic website spoke to Dimitris Avramopoulos, the EU commissioner for migration, home affairs and citizenship, about ongoing cooperation between European and African states to combat irregular migration and human trafficking.
Al-Ahram: What is the agenda of your visit to Egypt and what are the main topics you will discuss with Egyptian officials?
Dimitris Avramopoulos: I believe Egypt and the European Union are natural partners and should develop dialogue and cooperation, particularly on the matters of both migration and security. My visit to Egypt aims at exploring the possibility to make steps in this direction and at exchanging preliminary views on the issues which are of common concern.
Egypt plays a crucial role towards stability in the region, and strengthening Arab and EU ties. In times of populism I am very much concerned about the increasing xenophobia but also Islamophobia. Islam has contributed to the world's culture and this is recognised.
AA: How do you regard the European policy towards accepting migrants, especially with the flow of Syrian migrants to different European nations?
The countries of the European Union have been providing international protection to thousands of persons in need fleeing the Syrian and other conflicts. Meanwhile thousands of migrants were saved and rescued at sea while trying to reach Europe.
Our efforts are focused at reducing the use of the irregular channels and dismantling the criminal smuggling organisations which promote and exploit them.
Those that are in need of protection should use legal and safe channels to arrive to Europe. This is why the EU is continuing to invest in resettlement efforts.
However, those not in need of international protection and who have no right to stay in Europe should be returned, in full respect of fundamental rights and in cooperation with the transit and origin countries.
It is important to enhance and use the existing extensive legal migration channels on the basis of which migrants can come to Europe in an orderly and safe manner.
This is why the EU is strengthening its cooperation with the third countries which are ready to engage on this common challenge.
AA: Did you find the outcomes of the Valetta Summit suitable to the aggravation of the issue, and how far have these outcomes been implemented?
DA: In November 2015, the Valletta Summit brought European and African heads of state and governments together for the first time to strengthen cooperation and address migration-related challenges and opportunities, guided by the principles of solidarity, partnership and shared responsibility. Valletta represented a step change in the way we engage with our partners. This was translated into a clear action plan.
The European Union has been delivering on its commitments since then, in line with that action plan. We have set up a special Trust Fund for Urgent Actions in Africa, which we immediately put in use. To date more than 993 million Euros have been approved by the operational committees of the Trust Fund. These projects finance actions in all areas of migration management and in address root causes of migration. Many of them also address the needs of asylum seekers and refugees.
We have also taken steps to increase legal channels for mobility and migration, notably for categories such as students, researchers, and highly skilled persons. We are now expecting that the partner countries deliver with the same determination on their commitment, notably in the areas of irregular migration and return.
In June the EU launched a Partnership Framework with third countries under the Agenda for Migration which, in line with the Valletta principles, tries to foster progress in all these areas in the cooperation with some priority countries.
AA: What would be an effective framework through which the countries of origin and the countries of destination could face the major issue of human trafficking and smuggling?
The compacts that we are developing with the five priority countries selected so far under our new Partnership Framework are tailor-made, depending on the context and needs of each partner country.
Addressing migrant smuggling is a key element in that, alongside addressing the root causes of irregular migration, continuing to offer support to further socio-economic development in the country of origin, improving return and reintegration processes as well as better border management.
AA: How do you regard the current cooperation between Egypt (a transit country) and the EU to face the challenge of irregular immigration? And how can this cooperation be enhanced?
DA: Egypt is a strategic partner for the EU and we need to enhance our cooperation.
At this moment Egypt represents a major country of origin, of transit and of destination for migrants and refugees. Many of these migrants and refugees reach the EU from Egypt through irregular channels. I believe it is of our common interest to discuss and identify the most appropriate way to prevent the use of the irregular channels and improve the management of the overall flows, by addressing in a balanced and comprehensive manner all the issues at stake, in the interest of the EU, of Egypt and of the migrants and refugees involved.
AA: It goes without saying that dealing with migrants in Europe is not only challenging economically but security wise as well, so how do you preserve the balance between dealing with such issue while preserving the security of European citizens?
DA: Migration and security challenges are both questions that I am responsible for as a European Commissioner. However, we should not mix or amalgamate refugees and terrorists. At the same time, our tolerance and openness should never come at the expense of the security of our society and our citizens. This is an important balance that we must keep.
Managing our external borders better lies at the centre of this balance. We want to ensure and facilitate legitimate and bona fide travel to the European Union, while reducing irregular migration and also fighting security risks at our external borders.
AA: How do you regard Egyptian policies related to dealing with the resettlement of migrants and refugees?
DA: Egypt plays a very important regional role when it comes to managing the migratory crisis that affects us all. We know that continuing violence and instability in Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sudan, and South Sudan as well as Syria result in increasing arrivals in Egypt. I am aware that this is a challenge, and the EU is willing to support Egypt, also to improve its resettlement efforts.
AA: How does the EU respond to the need for more aid for Egypt from the international community to deal with the millions of refugees, since Egypt is facing serious economic challenges?
DA: The EU is already supporting several third countries which have shown readiness to provide effective protection and hospitality to asylum seekers and refugees in accordance with international standards, in a spirit of responsibility sharing. Several regional development and protection programmes were also developed in this endeavour, including in Northern African countries.
The specific assistance that the EU offers to any third partner country takes into account the overall framework of those mutual relations, and Egypt is no exception to that.
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PILSEN, Czech Republic, November 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --
A major player from the Czech Republic, Doosan Skoda Power, a steam turbine manufacturer backed by its Korean parent company, has been strengthening its presence in the Southeast Asia market in recent years.
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20161110/437913 )
It has been almost a year when Doosan Skoda Power was awarded a contract to supply a turbine set with an output of 198 MW for the Grati combined cycle power station on the Indonesian island of Java.
Martin Baxa, Head of Sales - Asia at Doosan Skoda Power for New Build projects, is looking for new contracts in the Southeast Asia region. He manages the entire business development, ranging from identifying the opportunities through to contract performance.
What is Doosan Skoda Power's position in Southeast Asia?
The Doosan Group holds a firm position in the Southeast Asia market, supported by some successful installations such as a 700MW turbine for Cirebon, Indonesia, and a 700MW turbine in Gheco-One, Thailand. Being a part of the Group and a steam turbine supplier, Doosan Skoda Power thus has opportunities to pursue its business in that region thanks to the Group's good reputation.
We are completely confident in our product. We are one of the few suppliers having their own proprietary technology. In addition, we have concentrated all that we need in a single place from the perspective of both turbine manufacture and development. This helps us to respond flexibly to the developments in every project and to the needs on new markets.
Which markets in that region are you planning to enter in the foreseeable future?
Most of the Southeast Asia markets tend to grow and hold a potential for the future. From our perspective, Indonesia is the priority; we have signed a contract for delivering a turbine set to the Grati CCGT power plant in that country.
Where do you see more opportunities, in the private or in the public sector?
It is a combination of both. Indonesia and Thailand have their major local manufacturers and private investors. On the other hand, the Philippines are a country where the energy market is fragmented among a fairly large number of private energy producers.
What is Doosan Skoda Power's advantage over the relevant competitors on this market?
There is no question that it is the combination of the Doosan and Skoda brands. The market correctly regards us as an Asian firm thanks to our connection with the Doosan Group, which is relatively well-known on the market as the supplier of large complete plants. We seek to leverage this reputation by way of supplementing Doosan's focus on complete plants and also as a supplier of self-standing turbines based on our proprietary technology.
In parallel with this, when it comes to steam turbines, vast number of customers are similarly aware of the Skoda brand. Those of them who know the brand view it favourably. This creates a very positive combination for the future.
You can find the whole interview with Martin Baxa, Doosan Skoda Power here .
Contact: Margit Petrickova, Doosan Skoda Power, +420-378-185 000, doosanskodapower@doosan.com
SOURCE Doosan Skoda Power
DUBLIN, Nov 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --
Research and Markets has announced the addition of Jain PharmaBiotech's new report "Cytogenetics - Technologies, Markets and Companies" to their offering.
This report deals with cytogenetics in a broader sense rather than the classical use mainly to describe the chromosome structure and identify abnormalities related to disease. In the age of molecular biology, it is also referred to as molecular cytogenetics.
The scope of cytogenetics includes several technologies besides fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), comparative genomic hybridization (CGH), and multicolor FISH. Molecular cytogenetics includes application of nanobiotechnology, microarrays, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), in vivo imaging, and single molecule detection. Bioinformatics is described briefly as it plays an important role in analyzing data from many of these technologies.
FISH remains the single most important technology in cytogenetics. Several innovations are described of which the most important are single copy FISH, in vivo FISH (imaging of nucleic acids in living cells) and nanotechnology-based FISH. The unique character of peptide nucleic acid (PNA) allows these probes to hybridize to target nucleic acid molecules more rapidly and with higher affinity and specificity compared with DNA probes. PNA-FISH is more suited for rapid diagnosis of infections. RNA-FISH and locked nucleic acids (LNAs), are also described.
The chapter on markets provides a global perspective of the cytogenetics business in the major markets: US, Western Europe (including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK), and Japan. The total figures for the market are also broken out according to the technologies and major disease areas in which they are applied. Markets figure are given for the year 2015 and estimates are made for the years 2020 and 2025.
The report includes summary profiles of 69 companies relevant to cytogenetics along with their 80 collaborations. Companies developing innovative technologies as well as those supplying equipment/services/reagents are identified.The report text is supplemented with 27 Tables and 9 figures. Selected 200 references are included in the bibliography.
Key Topics Covered:
Executive Summary
1. Introduction
2. Technologies used for cytogenetics
3. Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization
4. Genomic Technologies relevant to Cytogenetics
5. Molecular Imaging & Single Molecular Detection
6. Role of Nanobiotechnology in Cytogenetics
7. Biomarkers and Cytogenetics
8. Applications of Cytogenetics
9. Cancer Cytogenetics
10. Cytogenetics Markets
11. Companies
12. References
For more information about this report visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/zfzmjn/cytogenetics
Media Contact:
Research and Markets
Laura Wood, Senior Manager
press@researchandmarkets.com
For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470
For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630
For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900
U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907
Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716
Related Links
http://www.researchandmarkets.com
SOURCE Research and Markets
Company Honored for the Fifth Time with 20th Place Ranking
RACINE, Wisconsin, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- SC Johnson, maker of trusted consumer brands like Glade, Duck, Pledge and Mr. Muscle, today announced that it was named as one of the 25 World's Best Multinational Workplaces by the Great Place to Work Institute, the world's largest annual study of workplace excellence. SC Johnson earned the 20th spot in the ranking. It is the company's fifth year on this list.
"The single most important part of SC Johnson's success is the talented and committed people of this company. It is an important part of who we are to strive to create a great place to work in which people can be inspired and thrive," said Fisk Johnson, Chairman and CEO of SC Johnson. "To work hard to create a workplace of respect, integrity and inclusion. And to provide people with the resources and tools necessary to further careers. We are thrilled to be named a Best Multinational Workplace."
Since 2011, Great Place to Work has identified the top organizations that create great workplaces in multiple countries in which they operate through the publication of the World's Best Multinational Workplaces list. To be considered eligible, companies must appear on a minimum of five national best workplaces lists, have a minimum of 5,000 employees worldwide, and 40 percent of their workforce must be based outside of the country in which they are headquartered.
The results of those national lists, in addition to extra points awarded for the number of countries an organization surveyed employees in, and the percentage of the company's global workforce represented by those surveys, are combined to create a top 25 ranking.
"These organizations are well known because their brands appear around the globe. But behind these successful brands are high-trust workplaces where the vast majority of employees feel valued, well treated and that their work makes a difference," said Kim Peters, Executive Vice President of Great Place to Work. "Congratulations to these globally great organizations!"
Great Place to Work Around the World
This recognition is the latest in a series of achievements that SC Johnson has received from the Great Place to Work Institute. The company has received awards in the following countries/regions:
Argentina
Brazil
Central America / Costa Rica
/ Germany
Italy
Latin America Multinational
Mexico
Nigeria
Poland
United Kingdom
Rio
Venezuela
SC Johnson was also included in Working Mother magazine's list of the "100 Best Companies for Working Mothers" for the 28th time, and received a perfect score of 100 percent on the Human Rights Campaign Corporate Equality Index.
About Great Place to Work
Great Place to Work is the global authority on high-trust, high-performance workplace cultures. Through proprietary assessment tools, advisory services, and certification programs, including Best Workplaces lists and workplace reviews, Great Place to Work provides the benchmarks, framework, and expertise needed to create, sustain, and recognize outstanding workplace cultures. In the United States, Great Place to Work produces the annual Fortune "100 Best Companies to Work For" and a series of Great Place to Work Best Workplaces lists, including lists for Millennials, Women, Diversity, Small and Medium Companies and over a half dozen different industries.
About SC Johnson
SC Johnson is a family company dedicated to innovative, high-quality products, excellence in the workplace and a long-term commitment to the environment and the communities in which it operates. Based in the USA, the company is one of the world's leading manufacturers of household cleaning products and products for home storage, air care, pest control and shoe care, as well as professional products. It markets such well-known brands as GLADE, KIWI, OFF!, PLEDGE, RAID, SCRUBBING BUBBLES, SHOUT, WINDEX and ZIPLOC in the U.S. and beyond, with brands marketed outside the U.S. including AUTAN, TANA, BAMA, BAYGON, BRISE, KABIKILLER, KLEAR, MR MUSCLE and RIDSECT. The 130-year-old company, which generates $10 billion in sales, employs approximately 13,000 people globally and sells products in virtually every country around the world. www.scjohnson.com
Related Links
http://www.scjohnson.com
SOURCE SC Johnson
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Cancer patients in the United Arab Emirates have gained access to advanced radiotherapy and radiosurgery treatments with the clinical introduction of the country's first TrueBeam medical linear accelerator from Varian Medical Systems (NYSE:VAR). A male patient with neck Hodgkin's lymphoma received the first treatment on a TrueBeam at Mediclinic City Hospital's new comprehensive cancer center in Dubai.
"This landmark treatment means that patients in the UAE now have access to one of the most precise and efficient technologies for treating cancer," said Dr. Salim Chaib Rassou, the cancer center's lead radiation oncologist. "We will be able to achieve high levels of precision, excellent image quality and fast throughput using the new TrueBeam technology."
"This is an important clinical advancement in the treatment of many different types of cancer in the UAE and brings new hope to cancer sufferers across the country," he added.
"Mediclinic City Hospital is very proud to be able to offer the first TrueBeam radiotherapy treatment in the UAE at our newly-opened comprehensive cancer center," said hospital director Christian Schuhmacher. "The center has been set up in collaboration with experts at Mediclinic's Swiss sister company Hirslanden, with TrueBeam data matched to that at Hirslanden. This means that it is possible for a patient to be treated both in Dubai, or if necessary at Hirslanden in Switzerland, without the need for dose recalculations."
Varian's TrueBeam system features a multitude of technical innovations that dynamically synchronize imaging, patient positioning, motion management, and treatment delivery. It was designed to treat tumors in a fast and precise manner, including cancers such as lung and breast that move during treatment as the patient breathes in and out.
"The Varian team in Dubai is very excited to see the first TrueBeam system installed in the UAE providing patients with advanced clinical treatments," said Mutaz Mikashfi, Varian's service area manager, Middle East and North Africa. "This new system in Dubai expands our collaboration with the Mediclinic group beyond our established long-term support for Mediclinic Hirslanden in Switzerland. We are looking forward to working closely with Mediclinic City Hospital in Dubai to provide patients with the most modern radiotherapy and radiosurgery treatments."
About Varian Medical Systems
Varian Medical Systems, Inc., of Palo Alto, California, focuses energy on saving lives by equipping the world with advanced technology for fighting cancer and for X-ray imaging. The company is the world's leading manufacturer of medical devices and software for treating cancer and other medical conditions with radiation. The company provides comprehensive solutions for radiotherapy, radiosurgery, proton therapy and brachytherapy. The company supplies informatics software for managing comprehensive cancer clinics, radiotherapy centers and medical oncology practices. Varian is also a premier supplier of X-ray imaging components, including tubes, digital detectors, cables and connectors as well as image processing software and workstations for use in medical and industrial settings, as well as for security and non-destructive testing. Varian Medical Systems employs approximately 7,700 people who are located at manufacturing sites in North America, Europe, and China and sales and support offices around the world. For more information, visit http://www.varian.com or follow us on Twitter.
Press Contact
Neil Madle
Varian Medical Systems
+44 7786 526068
neil.madle@varian.com
Related Links
http://www.varian.com
SOURCE Varian Medical Systems
Tech Solutions Market Leader to Help United Kingdom Clients Save on SQL Server Management Costs While Enabling Unparalleled Consolidation and HA
LONDON and FORT COLLINS, Colorado, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- DH2i Company, the leading provider of Microsoft Windows Server application portability and management solutions, today announced that Trustmarque (Part of Capita PLC) has joined DH2i's DxAdvantage Partner Program. Trustmarque is a market-leading end-to-end technology solutions provider to UK private and public sector organizations. This partnership allows Trustmarque to deliver solutions that dramatically reduce the cost and complexity of deploying business-critical Windows Server applications.
Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120924/LA79538LOGO
DH2i DxEnterprise offers the best in SQL Server container management software and the easiest path to simplified, instance-level HAenabling Trustmarque's clients to:
Save 50% or more in SQL Server licensing costs
Reduce the number of OSes to license and manage by 8-15x
Achieve four-nines (99.99) in workload availability
Focus resources on innovative, value-added IT projects
"DH2i's DxEnterprise is a great solution for any organization looking to simplify their approach to SQL Server HA, DR and management and gain cost-savings through consolidation of their SQL Server estate," said James Butler, Chief Technology Officer at Trustmarque. "Without the complexity of traditional clustering solutions, and building on common enterprise technology solutions for storage HA and replication, DxEnterprise solves traditionally complex problems quickly and relatively cost-effectively. Customers can expect to see rapid results in delivering consolidation and improved availability, without significant investment in staff skills and training, and with a much simpler architecture than needed for other approaches."
With datacenter complexity spiraling, IT and lines of business need a way to maximize investments, boost performance and reduce costs. DxEnterprise container virtualization and management software enables workload portability, next-level consolidation, instance-level high availability and disaster recoveryall while maintaining closest-to-zero downtime.
"Competing in today's digital economy requires businesses of all sizes to be agile, lean and scalable at a global level, which is why so many of our partners are seeing the advantage of container management with DxEnterprise," said Connor Cox, Director of Business Development, DH2i. "Our goal was to create an inclusive channel ecosystem that enables our partners to provide superior customer outcomes while opening new revenue streams."
DH2i's DxAdvantage Partner Program offers partners a unique opportunity to close the gap in a market that demands solutions to rising datacenter cost and complexity. The Program enables shorter sales cycles, enhanced trusted advisor status and the creation of new opportunities for DH2i partners. Value-added resellers and consultants leverage DH2i's capabilities for mobility, orchestration, HA/DR and multi-subnet support as they help their customers achieve superior outcomes.
"As Trustmarque continues to invest in Microsoft datacenter management solutions, partnering with DH2i lets us modernize and monetize faster, create new opportunities and deliver truly innovative software and solutions to our clients," concluded Butler.
Tweet this: .@Trustmarque partners with @DH2i to help customers achieve dramatic savings on Windows #datacenter costs http://dh2i.com/press/ #Containers #SQLServer
About Trustmarque
Trustmarque (part of Capita PLC) is a leading end-to-end technology provider for both public and private sector organizations in the UK. Empowering customers to succeed by delivering simplified IT services, Trustmarque has been at the heart of the rapidly evolving IT market for over 27 years, serving more than 2,000 customers, including UK government and healthcare organizations, as well as high profile clients in the private sector. Trustmarque is a leading partner of major technology vendors, including Microsoft, Citrix, VMware, McAfee and Sophos. Trustmarque is a 'Sunday Times 100 'Best Small Companies to Work For' in the UK and has achieved the Investors in People standard. To learn more, please visit: www.trustmarque.com.
About DH2i
DH2i Company is a leading provider of Microsoft Windows Server application portability and management solutions. Its flagship solution, DxEnterprise, containerizes and decouples Windows Server applications, such as SQL Server, from the host OS and underlying IT infrastructure. In doing so, customers can simplify and dramatically improve the management of their datacenter environment, ensure SLA compliance, and lower costs by 30%-60%. To learn more, please visit: www.dh2i.com, call: 800-380-5405 or email: info@dh2i.com.
DH2i Company 2016. DH2i, DxEnterprise, DxConsole, DxHADR, DxTransfer, DxCollect and InstanceMobility are trademarks of DH2i Company. All other brand or product names contained in this press release may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
PR Contacts:
Alex Cranshaw
Spark Communications, for Trustmarque
alex@sparkcomms.co.uk
+44 (0)20 7436 0420
Nicole Gorman
DH2i
nicole.gorman@dh2i.com
M: 508-397-0131
Related Links
http://www.dh2i.com
SOURCE DH2i
A variety of HPC platforms supporting Intel Xeon processor E7-8800 v3/v4 and Intel Xeon E5-2600 v3/v4 optimized for High Performance Data Analytics, Visualization and Intensive Computing
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- TYAN, an industry-leading server platform design manufacturer and subsidiary of MiTAC Computing Technology Corporation, is showcasing a wide range of HPC server platforms optimized for enterprise, storage and data center applications at SC16 this week in Salt Lake City's Salt Palace Convention Center.
TYAN's comprehensive HPC platforms span a wide range of hardware specifications. The Intel Xeon E7-based, 4U quad-socket FT76-B7922 offers a memory capacity of 6TB and supports up to 4x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessors for the most demanding HPC users; the Intel Xeon E5-based, 4U dual-socket FT77C-B7079 supports up to 8x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessors for highly parallelized application deployment, the 2U dual-socket TA80-B7071 supports up to 4x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessors for large-scale production deployment in various high performance computing segments; and the 1U dual-socket GA80-B7081 supports up to 3x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessors for ISVs, universities, and small businesses looking for parallelized application development or proof of concept solution deployment.
"In order to address a diversity of HPC applications in the market and accelerate HPC market growth, TYAN offers multiple configurations of different products incorporating Intel Xeon CPU and coprocessor technologies, and brings maximum performance per watt to power HPC jobs," said Danny Hsu, Vice President of MiTAC Computing Technology Corporation's TYAN Business Unit.
Exhibits also include cloud computing and storage server platforms that are widely deployed in hyper-scale data centers for distributed file system and big data applications. The GT86A-B7083, GT24B-B7076, and GT62B-B7076 are three 1U server platforms that support dual-socket Intel Xeon E5-2600 v3/v4 processors for major computing tasks, and the GT24B-B5542 is a 1U server implementation that features a single-socket Intel Xeon E3-1200 v5 processor for cost-effective and volume-based deployment.
TYAN's storage server platforms, featuring cost-effective storage expansion and improved data storage capability, include the TN70B-B7086 supporting up to 12x 3.5"/2.5" hot-swap drive bays with up to 4 NVMe drive support; the GT56-B7086 supporting up to 10x 2.5" hot-swap drive bays; and the JBOD TN70J-E3250 supporting up to 12x 3.5"/ 2.5" hot-swap drive bays as storage expansion.
TYAN HPC Platforms Exhibit at SC16
4U/4-Coprocessor FT76-B7922 - Intel Xeon processor E7-8800/4800 v3/v4-based platform with support for up to 4x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessor modules, 96x DDR4 DIMM slots, and up to 8x SFF hot-swap SAS 12Gb/s.
4U/8-Coprocessor FT77C-B7079 - Intel Xeon processor E5-2600 v3/v4-based platform with support for up to 8x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessor modules and 24x DDR4 DIMM slots.
2U/4-Coprocessor TA80-B7071 - Intel Xeon processor E5-2600 v3/v4-based platform with support for up to 4x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessor modules and 16x DDR4 DIMM slots.
1U/3-Coprocessor GA80-B7081 - Intel Xeon processor E5-2600 v3/v4-based platform with support up to 3x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessor modules and 16x DDR4 DIMM slots.
Related Links
http://www.tyan.com
SOURCE MiTAC Computing - TYAN
Available from 24 November 2016, the second edition of this valuable resource first launched last year features over 1,600 listings of suppliers and retailers in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.
The 2017 directory, published in English and in full colour, contains information on over 1,000 suppliers and more than 600 jewellery retailers, representing some 2,200 stores in the region.
The Suppliers section presents companies dealing in jewellery, gemstones, diamonds, pearls and synthetics. Also included are gemmological laboratories, trade organisations and training establishments. Companies are sorted by Product and Service, by Alphabetical Order and by Country. Details include telephone number, address, person-in-charge, website and product specialisation, allowing directory users to readily identify and contact potential business partners.
Meanwhile, the Retailers section lists jewellery shops, chain stores and distributors. The directory provides valuable information on these companies, including the type of jewellery they sell and the source of their products.
"As Southeast Asia continues to grow in importance as a manufacturing hub and a consumer market, we have endeavoured to produce an even more comprehensive inventory of the region's jewellery and gemstone industry to facilitate business transactions. The 2017 directory includes more than 800 suppliers from Thailand and over 150 jewellery retailers each in Singapore and Malaysia, representing a total of almost 900 shops. It also lists nearly 100 retail establishments in the Philippines, covering some 600 stores," said Irene Foo, Group Publisher, Jewellery Publishing Group of UBM Asia.
The Jewellery & Gemstone Directory 2017 -- Southeast Asia Edition is available at a special pre-order rate of USD 40 per copy until 23 November 2016. Regular rate is USD 60. To pre-order, please visit http://www.jewellerynewsasia.com/publication/19/JGD-SEA
The directory will also be available at international jewellery trade fairs, including the Hong Kong International Jewelry Manufacturers' Show; the Hong Kong Gem, Diamond & Pearl Show; the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show; the June and September Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fair; and the Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair.
For more information, please email olivia.quiniquini@ubm.com
Media Contact:
+852 2516 1683
Marketing@jewellerynewsasia.com
Notes for Editors:
1. About Jewellery Publishing Group (www.jewellerynewsasia.com)
JNA (Jewellery News Asia), first published in 1983, is the flagship publication of UBM Asia's Jewellery Group. This industry pioneer is recognised as Asia's most authoritative information resource for the gemstone and jewellery sector, providing reliable and accurate coverage through its print and online platforms. Established in 1994, CJNA (Jewellery News Asia -- Chinese Edition) is a monthly business magazine designed to serve the jewellery industry's key decision makers and top buyers in Greater China. In 2006, SILVERSTYLES, the ultimate business resource on the latest silver jewellery trends, was introduced.
The Jewellery Publishing Group also produces the Jewellery & Gemstone Directory -- Hong Kong Edition, Jewellery & Gemstone Directory -- Southeast Asia Edition, Equipment & Supplies Directory, Silver Jewellery Suppliers Directory, Show Daily, Pearl Report, Gems World, and Trade Fair & Conference Guide.
2. About UBM Asia (www.ubmasia.com)
Owned by UBM plc listed on the London Stock Exchange, UBM Asia is the largest trade show organiser in Asia and the largest commercial organiser in China, India, Malaysia and Thailand. Established with its headquarters in Hong Kong and subsidiary companies across Asia and in the US, UBM Asia has a strong global network of 32 offices and 1,300 staff in 24 major cities. We operate in 19 market sectors with 230 events, 28 trade publications, 18 online products for over 2,000,000 quality exhibitors, visitors, conference delegates, advertisers and subscribers from all over the world.
UBM Asia was awarded 'Asia's Most Reliable Trade Show Organizer Award' in Hong Kong's Most Valuable Companies Awards (HKMVCA) 2016.
SOURCE Jewellery Publishing Group of UBM Asia
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- With U.S. consumers falling victim to the "technical support scam" in greater numbers than ever before, the AARP Fraud Watch Network today launched an initiative to raise awareness of the scam and educate consumers about how they can protect themselves.
AARP Fraud Watch Network
A survey released last month by Microsoft found that over the past year two-thirds of consumers have experienced the tech support scam, in which fraudsters pose as technicians from one of the major computer companies. AARP's effort to educate consumers includes online content, advertising and media appearances featuring renowned security expert and Fraud Watch Network Ambassador Frank Abagnale.
"If you or someone you know receives a call or an email from someone identifying themselves as a technician with Microsoft, Google, Apple or some other well-known technology company, it is likely to be a scam. Just hang up the phone," said Abagnale. "The large computer firms never make proactive calls or send email to provide unrequested technical support."
Executing the scam via telephone, email or even pop-up ads, the scammers inform a targeted person that a virus or some other security problem has been detected on the victim's computer, and offer to make a repair. Instead, their goal is to gain control of the computer, access personal files and passwords, and obtain credit card information to charge the consumer for the supposed repair or a warranty program -- which proves to be worthless.
The Microsoft survey indicates that 20% of the people surveyed around the world continued with a potentially fraudulent interaction after the first contact. This means that the victim downloaded harmful software, gave the scammers access to their computer, visited a scam website, or provided a credit card or other forms of payment.
Interestingly, of the victims who continued interacting with the scammers, half were millennials (ages 18-34). Thirty-four percent were between ages 36-54, and 17% were age 55 or older.
Abagnale advises consumers never to give control of their computer to a third party, nor to provide a credit card number to pay for unsolicited repair services or warranty programs.
For more tips about how keep yourself safe from technical support scammers, visit the new Fraud Watch Network web page at: www.aarp.org/TechScams. The site includes detailed descriptions of how fraudsters execute their scams, video and other content, and a list of recommended "Dos and Don'ts" when dealing with a suspected fraudster. An educational booklet, published by Microsoft and the FWN, can also be downloaded from the site.
Abagnale, who was named AARP Fraud Watch Ambassador in 2015, has been associated with the FBI for more than four decades, and has advised and consulted with hundreds of financial institutions, corporations and government agencies around the world. Abagnale's story was told in his best-selling book, Catch Me if You Can, and in the 2002 movie of the same name, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks.
The AARP Fraud Watch Network was launched in 2013 as a free resource for people of all ages. The website provides information about fraud and scams, prevention tips from experts, an interactive Scam-Tracking Map, fun educational quizzes, and video presentations featuring Abagnale. Users may sign up for "Watchdog Alert" emails that deliver breaking scam information, or call a free helpline at 877-908-3360 to speak with trained volunteers.
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
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Turkey on Monday closed a border crossing with Syria in the southeastern province of Kilis after violent clashes in the Syrian town of Azaz, a local official said.
"The border gate remains open only for ambulances," the official told AFP on condition of anonymity.
Turkish media reported that the closure of the Oncupinar border crossing, which faces Bab al-Salama inside Syria, was a "temporary" security measure after clashes on Syrian soil.
Turkish media reported that the border closure was a "temporary" security measure after clashes on Syrian soil.
The town of Azaz, not far from the border, is one of many Syrian villages and towns taken by Ankara-backed Syrian opposition fighters since an offensive supported by Turkey began on August 24.
Kilis governor Ismail Catakli said the border was closed to humanitarian aid and trade traffic "due to developments on the other side of the border", the private Dogan news agency reported.
It was unclear when the border crossing would reopen.
Turkey has embarked on an ambitious operation inside Syria dubbed "Euphrates Shield" to support Syrian opposition fighters in a bid to cleanse its border of Islamic State fighters and stop the advance of Syrian Kurdish militia.
The Ankara-backed fighters comprise various brigades rather than one organised force, according to experts.
Deputy Prime Minister Numan Kurtulmus said the rebels had advanced "closer to Al-Bab" -- the next target in Turkey's Syria operation, adding that Turkey resumed aerial support to help rebel forces.
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Dr. Juan Ramon de la Fuente has a degree from the School of Medicine at Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico (UNAM), he did is residency in Psychiatry at the Mayo Clinic, and is a Doctor Honoris Causa for 18 universities in Mexico, the United States, Canada, Europe and South America. He has been in public positions such as Secretary of Health, President of the Mexican Academy of Science, and the National Academy of Medicine, as well as dean of UNAM.
Due to his scientific contributions, de la Fuente has received several national and international awards and recognitions. He currently presides over the Board of the Aspen Institute in Mexico, and he manages the Seminar of Studies on Global Presence at UNAM.
"As a Non-for-profit Institution, we have the social responsibility to improve the community's quality of life, supporting education and research, and we also created Excellence in Medicine, which is already an award with a great tradition at ABC Medical Center; today it is one of the most special awards that we grant, not only because we are celebrating 130 years of our institution, but because we are celebrating one of the most distinguished doctors in Mexico and in the world: Dr. Juan Ramon de la Fuente," said Mr. Anthony McCarthy, President Board of ABC Medical Center.
Present during the ceremony were Dr. Jose Narro, Secretary of Health of the Federal Government in Mexico; Dr. Pablo Kuri, Assistant Secretary of Prevention and Promotion of Health; Dr. Jose Meljem, Assistant Secretary of Integration and Development of the Health Sector; and Dr. Enrique Graue, Dean of UNAM; as well as politicians, doctors and scientists, businesspeople and media.
"I have known Juan Ramon as a boss, doctor, researcher, university professor and friend, and I can tell you that he is a man who has always sought excellence, he never does things halfway, he is ethical in his actions and in his deeds," said Dr. Jose Narro, Secretary of Health of the Federal Government in Mexico.
For more information, go to: http://www.abchospital.com/en/
*****
Press Contact
Nora Sansores www.abchospital.com Head of Communication - ABC Medical Center Facebook: /CentroMedicoABC [email protected] Twitter: @ABCcentromedico T: 5230-8014 T: 5230 8000 / 1103 - 1600
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SOURCE ABC Medical Center
DUBLIN, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Allergan plc (NYSE:AGN) today announced that Adriane M. Brown will join its board of directors effective February 2017. Ms. Brown is currently President and Chief Operating Officer of Intellectual Ventures LLC, a private global invention company focused on providing access to valuable patents and invention related services.
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"Adriane Brown is an accomplished executive with extensive experience leading global businesses in multiple industries. With nearly 30 years of management experience, she has operational know how and a proven track record of developing and growing technologies and products across a network of global R&D centers and manufacturing plants," said Brent Saunders, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of Allergan plc. "Adriane's public board experience, understanding of the value of innovation and experience developing and protecting intellectual property complements the experiences of our current board."
Ms. Brown has served on the board of directors of Harman International Industries, Inc. since June 2013 where she is a member of the Compensation Committee and the Technology and Innovation Committee.
"I am pleased to join the board of Allergan as they deliver results around the world that serve their customers and patients," said Brown. "Their commitment to innovative and meaningful work with the goal of helping people live longer and healthier is commendable."
Prior to joining intellectual Ventures in 2010, Ms. Brown was Senior Vice President, Energy Strategy at Honeywell International. During the course of her eleven year career at Honeywell, Ms. Brown served in a number of leadership positions including, President and Chief Executive Officer, Honeywell Transportation Systems; Vice President and General Manager, Engine Systems & Accessories; and Vice President and General Manager, Aircraft Landing Systems.
Prior to joining Honeywell, Ms. Brown had a nearly 20 year career at Corning, Inc. Ms. Brown's last position at Corning was Vice President and General Manager, Environmental Products Division. This followed roles of increasing responsibility starting with her first position as a shift supervisor.
Ms. Brown received her Bachelor of Science in environmental health from Old Dominion University and a Masters of Science in management (Sloan Fellow) from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She also received a Doctorate of Humane Letters from Old Dominion University.
About Allergan plc
Allergan plc (NYSE: AGN), headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is a bold, global pharmaceutical company and a leader in a new industry model Growth Pharma. Allergan is focused on developing, manufacturing and commercializing branded pharmaceuticals, devices and biologic products for patients around the world.
Allergan markets a portfolio of leading brands and best-in-class products for the central nervous system, eye care, medical aesthetics and dermatology, gastroenterology, women's health, urology and anti-infective therapeutic categories.
Allergan is an industry leader in Open Science, the Company's R&D model, which defines our approach to identifying and developing game-changing ideas and innovation for better patient care. This approach has led to Allergan building one of the broadest development pipelines in the pharmaceutical industry with 70+ mid-to-late stage pipeline programs in development.
Our Company's success is powered by our more than 16,000 global colleagues' commitment to being Bold for Life. Together, we build bridges, power ideas, act fast and drive results for our customers and patients around the world by always doing what is right.
With commercial operations in approximately 100 countries, Allergan is committed to working with physicians, healthcare providers and patients to deliver innovative and meaningful treatments that help people around the world live longer, healthier lives every day.
For more information, visit Allergan's website at www.Allergan.com.
Forward-Looking Statement
Statements contained in this press release that refer to future events or other non-historical facts are forward-looking statements that reflect Allergan's current perspective of existing trends and information as of the date of this release. Except as expressly required by law, Allergan disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from Allergan's current expectations depending upon a number of factors affecting Allergan's business. These factors include, among others, the difficulty of predicting the timing or outcome of FDA approvals or actions, if any; the impact of competitive products and pricing; market acceptance of and continued demand for Allergan's products; difficulties or delays in manufacturing; and other risks and uncertainties detailed in Allergan's periodic public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including but not limited to Allergan's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 (certain of such periodic public filings having been filed under the "Actavis plc" name). Except as expressly required by law, Allergan disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
CONTACTS:
Allergan:
Investors:
Lisa DeFrancesco
(862) 261-7152
Media:
Mark Marmur
(862) 261-7558
SOURCE Allergan plc
Related Links
http://www.allergan.com
HANGZHOU, China, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Amap Software Co., Ltd., a Chinese web mapping, navigation and location-based services provider since 2001, announced at the company's 2016 Computing Conference in Hangzhou on October 15 that it has made its HD map and data services free of charge for automakers during their development and testing of self-driving cars.
Amap's free HD map service offers an alternative solution for both automakers and map service providers to the traditional buyer-seller relationship of offline map data, by providing a real-time kinematic (RTK) data service platform that guarantees service continuity and clear pricing, while reducing the cost of app development and improving update speed.
"The new era of map data will see it move away from a specialist, heterogeneous product and into an ecological resource built and shared for the development of industries with an infrastructure similar to that of utilities," said Wei Dong, president of the automobile business unit of Amap and vice president of Alibaba's UC Mobile Business Group.
Wei stressed that as Amap provides free HD map and data services to partner automakers, the traditional map data seller will become obsolete, replaced by a dynamic big data service provider, which will help build the smart travel model of the future.
As one of the first companies in China to collect HD map data and carry out technological research and development, Amap has always been a leader in the specialized equipment, accuracy and mileage of collecting HD map data, while accurately reflecting changes in map data to make a difference.
Rong, general manager of the automobile business unit of Amap's VIP business center, explained that the company has realized a multi-stage data acquisition system consisting of specialized professional, public and data collection vehicles. And through smart cloud dispatch, Amap is able to monitor, collect and feed back real-time road traffic updates in the most efficient way with the vehicles best suited for the situations.
"With this system, Amap can efficiently balance quality, speed, cost and coverage and guarantee that the data is both highly accurate and comprehensive, as it becomes a dynamic map that's live in real-time," said Rong. "Based on our advantages, Amap will further strengthen its position as a market leader in HD map tech with the support of our big data and cloud computing capacity."
Amap also announced in December it will launch version 2.0 of its Amap Auto, the first internet in-vehicle navigation system in China.
Version 2.0 will be equipped with Amap's AI engine, a new generation service engine based on big data capability and the machine's learning ability that will provide the optimized travel services customized to individual user's needs and different driving conditions. It will also offer an augmented user experience compared with the previous version with support from the AI engine, multi-formats, multi-lingual cloud control and more.
"Amap's mobile app is now the No.1 ranking smartphone map app in the industry with the highest number of daily active users," says Yongfu Yu, president of Amap and Alibaba's Mobile Business Group." As the focus shifts from 'smartphone + PC' to 'smartphone + automobile, Amap will lend its full support to the development of automotive industry."
"Regarding amap auto version 2.0, Amap has already reached cooperative agreements with a number of automakers in China with more ongoing discussions," adds Wei Dong.
"Moving forward, we will continue to share our big data and cloud computing technology and work together with the industry as a whole to welcome an all-new ecological approach to 'automobile + internet'."
SOURCE Amap Software Co., Ltd
PRINCETON, N.J., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- AMERI Holdings, Inc. ("Ameri100" or the "Company") (OTCQB: AMRH), today reported its financial results for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2016.
Total revenues for the third quarter of 2016 were $10.1 million, an increase of 125 percent compared to revenues of $4.5 million in the third quarter of 2015.
Total revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 were $23.8 million, an increase of 87 percent compared to revenues of $12.7 million for the first nine months of 2015.
Net loss for the third quarter of 2016 was $1.7 million, or $0.13 of net loss per diluted share, compared to net loss of $0.16 million, or $0.02 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2015.
Net loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 was $4.08 million, or $0.32 per diluted share, compared to net income of $1.0 million, or $0.10 per diluted share, in the same period in the prior year.
Adjusted EBITDA for the 2016 third quarter was $735,501, compared to $(57,479) for the third quarter of 2015.
Adjusted EBITDA for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 was $89,483, compared to $1.5 million in the same period in 2015. A reconciliation of adjusted net income and adjusted EBITDA is provided later in this press release.
EBITDA for the third quarter of 2016 was $(782,311), compared to $(306,390) in the prior year third quarter.
EBITDA for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 was $(2.5) million, compared to $966,580 in the same period in 2015.
Ameri100 President and CEO Giri Devanur said, "We are pleased with our results this quarter, and the performance of all our businesses. With the acquisition of DC&M Partners, LLC, Ameri100 Virtuoso Inc. (formerly Virtuoso Consulting Services) and BigTech Software Private Ltd., the depth of our SAP skills is greatly enhanced. DC&M and Virtuoso are leaders in high end SAP consulting with marquee customers across the United States. BigTech is an India-based offshore services delivery company which is adding significant value to our customer offerings. We are also excited that we have a healthy acquisition pipeline which will help us to add accretive acquisitions in the coming year."
Mr. Devanur continued, "We have started the post-merger integration process across all these acquired companies. We are confident that in the next two to three quarters they will be fully integrated and enhance our delivery capability to our customers. With these acquisitions, we now have over 70 active global customers with enough room to grow organically. Additionally, with these acquisitions we also have access to more than 200 customers who have been served by these acquired companies, and thus creating a pipeline for future revenue growth."
Ameri100's Chief Financial Officer Edward O'Donnell stated, "We are also pleased with our revenue growth and our move into positive adjusted EBITDA on a quarterly and year-to-date basis. We are excited about our new banking relationship with Sterling National Bank. We believe Sterling is a valuable partner that can work with us as we grow our business in the future."
2016 Financial Guidance
The Company reaffirms its previously announced fiscal year 2016 financial guidance of revenues between $35 million and $40 million. Through both organic growth and strategic acquisitions, the Company expects to achieve a revenue run-rate of $100 million by the end of 2017.
Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures by Ameri100 Corporation
This Ameri100 news release presents the non-GAAP financial measures "EBITDA" and "adjusted EBITDA." The most directly comparable measure for these non-GAAP financial measures are net income and income/loss from operations. The Company has included below unaudited adjusted financial information, which presents the Company's results of operations after excluding acquired intangible asset amortization, acquisition related contingent consideration adjustments, investment impairment loss, transaction and integration costs and non-recurring related income tax adjustments. Further excluded in the measure of adjusted EBITDA are interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation.
A discussion of the reasons why management believes that the presentation of non-GAAP financial measures provides useful information to investors regarding Ameri100's financial condition and results of operations is included as Exhibit 99.2 to Ameri100's report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 14, 2016.
About AMERI Holdings, Inc.
AMERI Holdings, Inc. is a SAP-based strategy consulting firm that brings synergies of classic consulting and product-based consulting services to its customer base. Headquartered in Princeton, New Jersey with offices in New York, Atlanta, Dallas, Phoenix, Kansas and Toronto, as well as offshore centres in Bangalore, Mumbai and Chennai India, the Company is a global leader in consulting and technology solutions. Ameri100 is a Lean Enterprise Architecture Partner (LEAP), enabling clients to outperform the competition and stay ahead of the innovation curve. The Company leverages a global partner ecosystem that has deep knowledge and skills to build and implement great ideas that drive progress for clients and enhance their businesses through innovative solutions. For further information, visit www.ameri100.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes forward-looking statements that relate to the business and expected future events or future performance of Ameri100 and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause its 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. Words such as, but not limited to, "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "targets," "likely," "will," "would," "could," and similar expressions or phrases identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about Ameri100's financial and growth projections as well as statements concerning our plans, predictions, estimates, strategies, intentions, beliefs and other information concerning our business and the markets in which we operate. The future performance of Ameri100 may be adversely affected by the following risks and uncertainties: the level of market demand for our services, the highly-competitive market for the types of services that we offer, market conditions that could cause our customers to reduce their spending for our services, our ability to create, acquire and build new businesses and to grow our existing businesses, our ability to attract and retain qualified personnel, currency fluctuations and market conditions around the world, and other risks not specifically mentioned herein but those that are common to industry. For a more detailed discussion of these factors and risks, investors should review Ameri100's reports on Form 10-K and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), which can be accessed through the SEC's website. Forward-looking statements in this press release are based on management's beliefs and opinions at the time the statements are made. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, and Ameri100 undertakes no duty to update this information to reflect future events, information or circumstances.
Press Contact
Carlos Fernandez
100 Canal Pointe Blvd, Suite 108
Princeton, NJ 08540
Phone: (732) 243-9250
Email: [email protected]
Investor Relations Contact
Ted O'Donnell
100 Canal Pointe Blvd, Suite 108
Princeton, NJ 08540
Phone: (732) 243-9250
Email: [email protected]
(Financial tables follow)
AMERI HOLDINGS, INC. UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
September 30, 2016
December 31, 2015 Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 2,913,834
$ 1,878,034 Accounts receivable
7,724,860
4,872,082 Investments
-
82,908 Other current assets
629,640
343,809 Total current assets
11,268,334
7,176,833 Other assets
Property and equipment, net
115,355
73,066 Intangible assets, net
9,359,571
3,114,513 Acquired goodwill
17,379,031
3,470,522 Total other assets
26,853,957
6,658,101
Total assets
$ 38,122,291
$ 13,834,934
Liabilities and stockholders' equity
Current liabilities
Accounts payable
$ 4,906,959
$ 2,597,385 Other accrued expenses
1,345,561
1,093,814 Consideration payable
3,225,093
3,649,267 Short-term notes
4,137,143
1,235,935 Total current liabilities
13,614,756
8,576,401 Long-term liabilities
Convertible notes
5,000,000
5,000,000 Long-term notes
1,566,671
- Long-term consideration payable
13,188,260
- Total long-term liabilities
19,754,931
5,000,000
Total liabilities
33,369,687
13,576,401
Stockholders' equity
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; 1,000,000 authorized, none issued and outstanding
-
- Common stock, $0.01 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized, 13,885,972 and 11,639,066 issued and outstanding as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively
138,861
118,743 Additional paid-in capital
10,042,992
1,192,692 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
(287,722)
- Accumulated deficit
(5,141,527)
(1,052,902) Total stockholders' equity
4,752,604
258,533
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$ 38,122,291
$ 13,834,934
AMERI HOLDINGS, INC. UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
Three Months Ended September 30, 2016
Three Months
Ended September 30, 2015
Nine Months
Ended
September 30,
2016
Nine
Months
Ended September
30, 2015 Net revenue
$ 10,058,558
$ 4,463,125
$ 23,758,460
$ 12,678,813
Cost of services
8,361,960
3,023,208
19,288,805
9,137,563
Gross profit
1,696,598
1,439,917
4,469,655
3,541,250
Operating expenses
Selling and marketing
137,024
-
401,487
- General and administration
1,326,327
1,497,396
4,924,644
2,020,835 Nonrecurring expenditures
1,015,558
248,911
1,630,778
553,835 Depreciation and amortization
509,376
9,375
722,390
25,690 Operating expenses
2,988,285
1,755,682
7,679,299
2,600,360 Operating income (loss)
(1,291,687)
(315,765)
(3,209,644)
940,890
Interest expense
(290,423)
(62,113)
(674,683)
(87,655) Interest income/other income
2,205
54
44
82 Other expense/loss
(197,723)
-
(197,723)
- Income before income taxes
(1,777,628)
(377,824)
(4,082,006)
853,317 Tax benefit / (provision)
-
128,460
-
84,971 Foreign exchange translation
59,079
89,818
(6,619)
89,818
Net income (loss)
$ (1,718,549)
$ (159,546)
$ (4,088,625)
$ 1,028,106
Net and comprehensive income (loss) for the period
$ (1,718,549)
$ (159,546)
$ (4,088,625)
$ 1,028,106
Basic income (loss) per share
$ (0.13)
$ (0.02)
$ (0.32)
$ 0.10 Diluted income (loss) per share
$ (0.13)
$ (0.02)
$ (0.32)
$ 0.10
Basic weighted average number of shares
13,653,586
9,992,828
12,794,149
9,992,828 Diluted weighted average number of shares
13,653,586
9,992,828
12,794,149
9,992,828
AMERI HOLDINGS, INC. RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME
9 months
ended
September 30,
2016 3 months
ended
September 30,
2016
Net Income (Loss) $(4,088,625) $(1,718,549) Tax benefit/(provision)
Foreign currency translation adjustment (6,619) 59,079 Other Expense/loss (197,723) (197,723) Other Income - 2,414 Interest income 44 (209) Interest expense (674,683) (290,423) Income from operations (3,209,644) (1,291,687) Depreciation and amortization 722,390 509,376 EBITDA (2,487,254) (782,311) Nonrecurring expenditures 1,630,778 1,015,558 Stock based expense 945,959 502,254 Adjusted EBITDA $89,483 $735,501
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SOURCE AMERI Holdings, Inc.
Related Links
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TROY, Mich., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Altair is excited to announce the upcoming availability of Altair PBS Cloud, its latest appliance solution to further cloud computing for organizations. Altair PBS Cloud is the solution to build and run high-performance computing (HPC) appliances for both public clouds, private clouds, and bare-metal infrastructure. Altair will release Altair PBS Cloud in the first quarter of 2017 following conclusion of a private preview.
Altair PBS Cloud allows IT administrators and managers to model, create, deploy, manage and monitor HPC appliances. They are able to build complex architectures graphically and deploy HPC stacks everywhere securely within minutes. Altair PBS Cloud provides tremendous cost savings to an organization as it allows optimized consumption of resources and automates cloud bursting to handle peak workloads through IT-controlled policies.
"Altair provides solutions that democratize technology for organizations of all sizes to continuously push the boundaries of innovation," said Sam Mahalingam, CTO, Altair. "With Altair PBS Cloud, creating and maintaining HPC appliances in the cloud is made easy and possible whether or not you have IT resources."
Altair PBS Cloud provides extensive benefits to customers beyond just controlling costs. It also increases the efficiency of an organization by expanding its computational power, giving it, for example, the ability to perform design of experiments (DOE). Engineers and scientists will enjoy shorter wait times to complete their work and can run a greater amount of simulations, consequently creating more robust products faster.
To participate in the private preview visit www.pbsworks.com/pbscloud to request access. Attendees of Supercomputing can see a demo of Altair PBS Cloud at the Altair booth #1811.
About ALTAIR
Founded in 1985, Altair is focused on the development and application of simulation technology to synthesize and optimize designs, processes and decisions for improved business performance. Privately held with more than 2,600 employees, Altair is headquartered in Troy, Michigan, USA with more than 45 offices throughout 20 countries, and serves more than 5,000 corporate clients across broad industry segments. To learn more, please visit www.altair.com.
Media Contacts Altair:
Corporate / Americas
Biba A. Bedi
+1.757.224.0548 x 406
[email protected]
Altair Europe, the Middle East and Africa
Evelyn Gebhardt
+49 6421 9684351
[email protected]
SOURCE Altair
Related Links
http://www.altair.com
CONCORD, Mass., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Friends of Minute Man National Park today released the final archaeology report on the Parker's Revenge battle the April 19, 1775, encounter in which Lexington's Captain John Parker engaged the British Regulars on their march back from Concord to Boston.
"In this centennial year of the National Park Service, it is wonderful to be able to reveal "new" history tied to the opening of the American Revolution,"said Nancy Nelson, superintendent of Minute Man National Historical Park.
The 320-page report summarizes historical research on the battle, details the full range of technologies deployed in the archaeological research and describes battle tactics likely utilized by both colonial and British forces.
The project findings are noteworthy, especially because only one brief witness account the battle has ever been identified by historians.
Technologies utilized in the research informed formal excavations and 1775 battlefield reconstructions. These methods included: 3D laser scanning, GPS feature mapping, and geophysical surveys including metallic surveys,ground penetrating radar, magnetic gradient and conductivity/magnetic susceptibility.
Taken together, the technologies enabled researchers to locate a farmhouse that figured prominently in the battle terrain, to recreate the actual 1775 battlefield landscape and battlefield features and even to model exactly what combatants could and could not see at various positions along the battle road. Artifacts discovered included 29 British and colonial musket balls from the battle.Thelocation and spatial patterning of the musket balls recovered enabled archaeologists to interpret the exact positions where individuals were standing during the battle and then outline battle tactics most likely deployed.
"Using an integrated approach to interpreting this battlefield enabled us to literally peel back time and expose the artifacts that tell the story of Parker's Revenge," said Project archaeologist Dr. Meg Watters.
The report indicates that Captain Parker positioned his men at the edge of a woodlot on an elevated slope above the battle road. This particular site had two distinct advantages: it provided a clear view to see the advancing British forces and the landscape featured a number of large boulders and trees that provided cover.
A viewshed is an area that is visible from one specific location in a landscape. Archaeologists ran a computer simulated viewshed analysis taken from the perspective of a 5'5"-tall marching British soldier and also from the point of view of a mounted British officer (9 feet above ground). The analysis indicated that the undulating terrain surface, combined with other obstacles, meant the British force could not easily see the position of the Lexington militia until it wasin close proximity.
The report further details the likeliest battle scenario. After crossing the Nelson Bridge and catching sight of the Lexington militia, a British vanguard unit fanned out to the left and was given orders to deploy into flanking formation using a designated point or feature in the landscape as an end target. Closely spaced, these soldiers made an excellent target for the Lexington militia. Before the British unit could complete its deployment, the Lexington militia fired from a position of not more than 40 yards away. Once they completed their deployment,the British Regulars returned fire on the retreating colonial milita.
Cognizant of the British tactic to follow firing with a bayonet charge, the Lexington militia withdrew in a line along the middle contour of a slope to the northeast then disappeared over the top behind the protection of a ledge outcrop to continue the fight further down the road.
"With the archaeology portion of the project now complete, we will turn our attention to the next two phases of the Parker's Revenge initiative rehabilitation of the battlefield and thecreation of educational resources for park visitors," said Bob Morris, president of the Friends of Minute Man National Park. "We need to raise additional funds to complete those two key phases of the project."
The Parker's Revenge project is a collaborative venture between the Friends of Minute Man National Historical Park, Minute Man National Historical Park, the National Park Service Northeast Regional Archaeology Program, the Town of Lexington's Community Preservation Fund, the Lexington Minute Men and other living history experts, Save Our Heritage, the Civil War Trust's Campaign 1776 project, the American Revolution Institute of the Society of the Cincinnati and numerous local supporters.
About the Friends of Minute Man
The non-profit Friends of Minute Man National Park supports the national park by funding educational programs and raising funds for restoration and preservation. For more information about the Parker's Revenge project and the Friends of Minute Man National Park or to view a copy of the archaeology report, visit http://www.friendsofminuteman.org
Contacts:
Nancy Nelson, Minute Man National Historical Park [email protected]
(978) 318-7811
Bob Morris, Friends of Minute Man National Park [email protected] (978) 318-7822
SOURCE Friends of Minute Man National Park
Related Links
http://www.friendsofminuteman.org
CHEYENNE, Wyo., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Michael S. Wexler, Chairman and CEO, Argus Worldwide Corp. (formerly Vid3G Inc) reported today that the Company's voting common shares will commence trading today on a post reverse split basis of 1:3500. The Company, which is listed on the OTC Markets (Pink Current) will trade for the next 20 business days under the symbol VIDGD. Thereafter, the Company's new ticker symbol will be ARGW.
Mr. Wexler explains that, "It is the Company's intention to build out over the next 3-5 year period, substantial alternative market positions in the digital, health and pharma sectors of the global economy. Over the next 30 days, the Company plans to complete the acquisition of Poland based Cyber Junky Sp z o.o., an innovative digital platform for sourcing and trading internet domain names. In addition, it is intended that the Company will complete on or before year end, a Reorganization Agreement with an integrated Health and Pharma group based in North America and Europe that will leave Argus Worldwide with a controlling position in the target company."
Argus Worldwide Corp. is a US corporation with its registered head office in Cheyenne, Wyoming. The Company has affiliated offices in Ottawa, Canada, Warsaw, Poland and Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION : Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "will" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Corporation's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to the Corporation. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof and the Corporation is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained here.
SOURCE Argus Worldwide Corp.
VANCOUVER, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ - Bear Creek Mining Corporation (TSX Venture: BCM) ("Bear Creek" or the "Company") announces it has selected GMI SA Ingenieros Consultores ("GMI"), a company owned by the prominent Peruvian engineering and construction firm Grana y Montero Group ("G&M"), to undertake Phase I Detailed Engineering work at the Corani silver-lead-zinc project in Peru. GMI will work with Bear Creek to fine-tune the Corani engineering design, which will form the basis of the Company's application for a Construction Permit. The Corani Phase I Detailed Engineering is a key component of the use of proceeds of the Company's July 2016 Short Form Prospectus financing (see Bear Creek news release dated July 26, 2016).
Andrew Swarthout, President and CEO of Bear Creek, states, "We are very pleased to have the opportunity to partner with G&M, one of the largest and most respected Peruvian engineering and construction firms. G&M along with its subsidiaries has both the breadth and depth of experience to deliver exceptional service in not only engineering design but also in permitting, construction of mining operations, bulk earth moving and contract mining, as demonstrated by their track record of very successful construction and operation outcomes at the Cerro Verde, Las Bambas, La Arena, Shauhuindo and Constancia mining projects in Peru. We look forward to working with G&M's highly qualified team as we complete this important milestone in the development of the Corani project; one of the largest undeveloped silver mines in the world."
The Phase I Detailed Engineering work will commence in mid-November and is expected to require 6 months to complete at a cost of approximately US $3.2 million (including taxes). It will establish final processing flow sheets, equipment lists, mine sequencing optimization and updated CapEx and OpEx cost estimates for the Corani project based on a projected 2018 construction start up time frame, and will be used to support the Company's application for a Construction Permit. Concurrently, the Company will engage a project finance consultant with whom it will work to develop a financing structure for the Corani project. The Company expects the Phase I Detailed Engineering to be completed by the end of Q2 2017 and the Construction Permit and project financing to be in place by mid- to late-2017 such that a construction decision could be made before the end of 2017 (which decision will be contingent upon successful project financing, securement of all necessary permits, and market conditions). Bear Creek and G&M have indicated a mutual interest in considering various partnership structures for construction and operation of the Corani mine, which will be further contemplated upon completion of the Phase I Detailed Engineering.
Bear Creek also reports that the Company has submitted an application to the Peruvian Ministry of Energy and Mines ("MEM") for accelerated recovery of the 18% value added tax (IGV) that applies to the Company's planned future investments in the Corani project. Pending approval of the application, a contract with the MEM will be executed after which the Company will be able to recover, on an expedited basis, the IGV taxes associated with its Corani capital investments as described in the approved ESIA and the 2015 Corani Feasibility Study (available at www.sedar.com). Accelerated recovery of IGV taxes is expected to reduce the Initial CapEx requirements for the Corani project, including those costs associated with the Phase I Detailed Engineering.
On behalf of the Board of Directors,
Andrew Swarthout
President and CEO
Regulatory Footnotes
Bear Creek's exploration programs are overseen by, and disclosure of a technical or scientific nature has been reviewed and approved by, Andrew Swarthout, AIPG Certified Professional Geologist, President and CEO of the Company and a Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101. Mr. Swarthout has read, verified and approves such information disclosed in this release.
This news release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements related to the timing of commencement and completion of the Phase I Detailed Engineering, timing of a possible Corani Project construction decision and commencement of construction, the engagement of a project finance consultant, the potential for future contractual arrangements with G&M, the possibility for successfully negotiating a contract for accelerated recovery of Peruvian IGV taxes, and the anticipated effect of an IGV contract on Initial CapEx requirements for Corani. Certain of these forward-looking statements are contingent upon various assumptions, including that the Phase 1 Detailed Engineering results will provide sufficient information for the Construction Permit application, and that the Company is eligible for accelerated IGV tax recovery, and upon future events transpiring, including that the Company is able to obtain all necessary permits and secure project financing for the Corani project. This forward-looking information is provided as of the date of this news release and reflects current estimates, predictions, expectations or beliefs regarding future events and is based on the Company's or its consultants' beliefs at the time the statements were made, as well as various assumptions made by and information currently available to them. Although management considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information available to it, they may prove to be incorrect. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions on which they are based do not reflect future experience. We caution readers not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as a number of important factors could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the expectations expressed in them. These risk factors may be generally stated as the risk that the assumptions and estimates used to make such forward-looking statements do not occur and the additional risks described in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form. When relying on our forward-looking statements, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by the Company or on behalf of the Company, except as required by law.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
SOURCE Bear Creek Mining Corporation
Related Links
http://www.bearcreekmining.com
ROCKVILLE, Md., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- In an effort to accelerate growth in the cybersecurity and health technology industries in Montgomery County, BioHealth Innovation, Inc. (BHI) has partnered with The MITRE Corporation of McLean, Virginiaa not-for-profit corporation that operates federally funded research and development centers (FFRDCs), including the National Cybersecurity FFRDC.
BHI will serve as the primary manager for the Rockville Innovation Center (RIC), which is home of BHI's health tech startup accelerator, Relevant Health. MITRE will provide the resident RIC start-up companies technical mentorship and insight into the most pressing cybersecurity challenges facing business and government today. This collaboration is an extension of a strategic initiative recently launched by MITRE to act as an innovation bridge between the private and public sectors.
The RIC will support start-ups and attract early-stage technology companies within these key technology sectors to graduate companies into commercial spaces in Montgomery County in a few short years.
"Adding cybersecurity thought leadership expands the supportive capabilities of the RIC and our broader regional partnerships," said Richard Bendis, BHI President and CEO. "While the RIC currently serves as a great resource for health tech and biotech startups, we plan to support the convergence that is happening across disciplines that is driving new technology development in the Internet of Things, personalized medicine and other connected health devices. Cybersecurity is a major consideration to be addressed."
Start-up companies will be aided by a variety of resources including BHI "Entrepreneurs-in-Residence," MITRE technologists, key-opinion-leader sessions, tactical workshops on technology development, and entrepreneurship support from various corporate, strategic and investment partners.
"Collaborating with an organization like BHI that excels in every aspect of managing an innovation center provides a unique opportunity for MITRE," said Dr. Mark Maybury, MITRE's Chief Security Officer, Vice President and Director of the National Cybersecurity FFRDC, sponsored by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. "This arrangement enables each party to focus on what it does best, while taking both the RIC and Montgomery County's business community to new heights."
MITRE will mentor RIC's startups in the areas of technology strategy and solution approach, as well as government and industry engagement.
"This agreement between BHI and MITRE marks the beginning of a cyber health tech explosion in Montgomery County," said Montgomery County Assistant Chief Administrative Officer for Economic and Workforce Development Lily Qi. "It is only a matter of time before we become the envy of other communities and markets. We are excited to see what this partnership will bring."
This announcement comes on the heels of the Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO) selecting and announcing BHI as the new manager of the Germantown Innovation Center (GIC) located within the Pinkney Innovation Complex for Science and Technology at Montgomery College (PIC MC).
Additionally, BHI has had a long-standing series of relationships with Montgomery County, and was created by the county in an effort to propel the commercialization efforts of local biotechnology and health startups.
About BioHealth Innovation, Inc.
BioHealth Innovation, Inc., is a regional innovation intermediary focused on commercializing market-relevant bio-health innovations and increasing access to early-stage funding in Maryland. BHI is known for providing commercial assistance to scientists and founders, educating and infusing Maryland's life science community with new and young entrepreneurs and fueling startups within Central Maryland's bio-ecosystem by connecting young companies to funding and business resources. Learn more at www.biohealthinnovation.org.
About The MITRE Corporation
The MITRE Corporation is a not-for-profit organization that operates research and development centers sponsored by the federal government. Learn more at: www.mitre.org.
SOURCE BioHealth Innovation, Inc.
Related Links
http://www.biohealthinnovation.org
(Beijing) A newly signed deal to produce Audi AG cars in Shanghai has infuriated FAW Group Corp., the current exclusive manufacturer of the German luxury cars in China, according to a source close to FAW.
SAIC Motor Corp., China's largest automaker by sales, and Audi parent Volkswagen AG signed an agreement last week to make and sell the luxury cars from their Shanghai joint venture that makes Volkswagen-brand cars, SAIC said in a filing to the Shanghai Stock Exchange on Monday.
Before the deal, all domestically manufactured Audis were built by a separate joint venture, FAW Volkswagen Automobile Co. Ltd., based in the northeast China's Jilin province. On learning of the new rival deal, executives at FAW were "furious," said a source at the company, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive situation.
Audi has become China's leading luxury car maker since entering the market in the late 1980s, outselling peers like BMW and Daimler AG's Mercedes-Benz. The Audi brand is also favored by government officials.
"FAW's contribution to Audi's success in China's luxury-car market as the No.1 luxury-car seller for such a long time cannot be overlooked," said the source, describing the outrage felt by FAW executives on learning of the new deal.
Despite its market-leading position, however, the German luxury-car maker is losing its advantage as Mercedes and BMW play catch-up and new entrants such as General Motors Co.'s Cadillac roar into the market. In the first three quarters of this year, Audi's sales in China increased by 6.2%, while Mercedes and BMW reported growth of 30% and 10.6% respectively.
China contributed about a third of Audi's global revenue last year. But the German brand also posted its first decline in China that year due to an economic slowdown and a series of corruption scandals at FAW.
China is the world's largest car market, fueled by demand from millions of newly minted middle class Chinese. A growing wealthy class has also turbocharged the nation's high-end car segment, with the top 10 luxury-car makers selling more than 1.8 million cars in China last year, according to industry site Gasgoo.com.
The fierce competition and a decline in sales have prompted Audi to look for new partners in the country to bolster its leading position in the luxury-car market, said a person close to Audi.
"Germans are proactive," said the source. "They would rather make mistakes than do nothing."
Contact reporter Chen Na (nachen@caixin.com); editor Doug Young (dougyoung@caixin.com)
DENVER, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Birner Dental Management Services, Inc. (OTCQX: BDMS), business services provider of PERFECT TEETH dental practices, announced results for the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2016. For the quarter ended September 30, 2016, revenue decreased $698,000, or 4.4%, to $15.2 million. The Company's earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and stock-based compensation expense ("Adjusted EBITDA") decreased $483,000, or 59.0%, to $335,000 for the quarter ended September 30, 2016. Net loss for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 increased $290,000 to $(517,000) compared to $(227,000) for the quarter ended September 30, 2015. Net loss per share increased to $(0.28) for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 compared to $(0.12) for the quarter ended September 30, 2015.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2016, revenue decreased $1.3 million, or 2.7%, to $47.5 million. The Company's Adjusted EBITDA decreased $978,000, or 31.2%, to $2.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. Net loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 increased $517,000 to $(847,000) compared to $(330,000) for the nine months ended September 30, 2015. Net loss per share increased to $(0.46) for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to $(0.18) for the nine months ended September 30, 2015.
A substantial portion of the decline in revenue for the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2016, was concentrated in one region within the Company. The Company believes it is taking the necessary actions to correct the decline in revenue with new management for this region. Additionally, the Company believes that dentist transition partially contributed to the decrease in revenue. The number of dentists affiliated with the Company has declined from 110 at September 30, 2015 to 98 at September 30, 2016. The Company replaced its dentist recruiter in September 2016 in an effort to reverse the decline in the number of its affiliated dentists.
The Company also believes that revenue in the second and third quarters of 2016 has been adversely affected by employee distractions caused by matters related to an activist shareholder group that began making a series of public disclosures critical of the Company, its board and management in May 2016. Additionally, the Company incurred additional expenses during the third quarter in connection with matters related to the activist shareholder group as well as its board of directors' ongoing evaluation of the Company's strategic options.
Significantly contributing to the decrease in Adjusted EBITDA during the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2016 was negative Adjusted EBITDA from the Company's two most recently opened de novo offices. The Company's de novo offices typically take a period of time after opening before they generate positive Adjusted EBITDA. The two de novo offices had negative Adjusted EBITDA of $114,000 for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 and $435,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. As previously announced, the Company does not intend to open any additional de novo offices for the balance of the year.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2016, the Company paid approximately $409,000 in dividends to its shareholders, had capital expenditures of $685,000 and decreased total bank debt outstanding by approximately $269,000.
Birner Dental Management Services, Inc. acquires, develops, and manages geographically dense dental practice networks in select markets in Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona. The Company currently manages 69 dental offices, of which 36 were acquired and 33 were de novo developments. As of September 30, 2016, the Company had 98 dentists. The Company operates its dental offices under the PERFECT TEETH name.
The Company previously announced it would conduct a conference call to review results for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 on Monday, November 14, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. MT. In addition to current operating results, the teleconference may include discussion of management's expectations of future financial and operating results. To participate in this conference call, dial in to 1-800-768-6544 and refer to Confirmation Code 5753356 approximately five minutes prior to the scheduled time. If you are unable to join the conference call on November 14, 2016, the rebroadcast number is 1-888-203-1112 with the pass code of 5753356. This rebroadcast will be available through November 28, 2016.
Non-GAAP Disclosures
This press release includes a non-GAAP financial measure with respect to Adjusted EBITDA. Please see below for more information regarding Adjusted EBITDA and a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net loss.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain of the matters discussed herein may contain forward-looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations. These include statements regarding the Company's prospects and performance in future periods, including the amount of bank debt, performance of de novo offices, the payment or nonpayment of dividends and dentist turnover. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These and other risks and uncertainties are set forth in the reports filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015. The Company disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
For Further Information Contact:
Birner Dental Management Services, Inc.
Dennis Genty
Chief Financial Officer
(303) 691-0680
BIRNER DENTAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(UNAUDITED)
Quarters Ended
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
September 30,
2015
2016
2015
2016
REVENUE:
Dental practice revenue $ 14,681,849
$ 13,988,133
$ 45,241,736
$ 44,009,444
Capitation revenue 1,170,907
1,166,155
3,553,173
3,461,218
15,852,756
15,154,288
48,794,909
47,470,662
DIRECT EXPENSES:
Clinical salaries and benefits 9,491,411
9,242,477
29,155,036
28,564,107
Dental supplies 762,736
729,299
2,261,936
2,187,229
Laboratory fees 851,678
869,014
2,516,851
2,648,658
Occupancy 1,514,141
1,591,841
4,426,666
4,712,445
Advertising and marketing 326,756
176,150
707,661
490,227
Depreciation and amortization 1,061,157
988,031
3,255,507
3,026,164
General and administrative 1,350,066
1,394,284
3,926,094
4,139,482
15,357,945
14,991,096
46,249,751
45,768,312
Contribution from dental offices 494,811
163,192
2,545,158
1,702,350
CORPORATE EXPENSES:
General and administrative 779,585 (1) 848,358 (1) 2,836,925 (2) 2,696,123 (2)
Depreciation and amortization 62,616
47,114
174,524
165,994
OPERATING LOSS (347,390)
(732,280)
(466,291)
(1,159,767)
Interest expense, net 24,143
70,367
74,700
185,240
LOSS BEFORE INCOME TAXES (371,533)
(802,647)
(540,991)
(1,345,007)
Income tax benefit (144,897)
(286,131)
(210,986)
(497,653)
NET LOSS $ (226,636)
$ (516,516)
$ (330,005)
$ (847,354)
Net loss per share of Common Stock -Basic $ (0.12)
$ (0.28)
$ (0.18)
$ (0.46)
Net loss per share of Common Stock - Diluted $ (0.12)
$ (0.28)
$ (0.18)
$ (0.46)
Cash dividends per share of Common Stock $ 0.22
$ -
$ 0.66
$ -
Weighted average number of shares of
Common Stock and dilutive securities:
Basic 1,860,482
1,860,261
1,859,956
1,860,334
Diluted 1,860,482
1,860,261
1,859,956
1,860,334
(1) Corporate expense - general and administrative includes $42,075 and $32,309 of stock-based compensation expense pursuant to ASC Topic 718 for the quarters ended September 30, 2015 and 2016, respectively. (2) Corporate expense - general and administrative includes $169,338 and $123,118 of stock-based compensation expense pursuant to ASC Topic 718 for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2016, respectively.
BIRNER DENTAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
December 31,
September 30, ASSETS 2015
2016 CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash $ 258,801
$ 220,676
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful
accounts of approximately $390,000 and $390,000, respectively 3,043,655
3,350,154
Note receivable 34,195
34,195
Deferred tax asset 275,907
284,629
Income tax receivable 73,878
-
Prepaid expenses and other assets 575,770
779,071
Total current assets 4,262,206
4,668,725
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net 9,808,014
7,934,008
OTHER NONCURRENT ASSETS:
Intangible assets, net 7,565,648
6,932,225
Deferred charges and other assets 155,741
155,741
Note receivable 55,002
35,781
Total assets $ 21,846,611
$ 19,726,480
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Accounts payable $ 2,920,998
$ 2,871,376
Accrued expenses 1,547,915
927,384
Accrued payroll and related expenses 2,330,398
2,239,065
Income taxes payable -
10,328
Current maturities of long-term debt 1,500,000
2,000,000
Total current liabilities 8,299,311
8,048,153
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:
Deferred tax liability, net 2,242,800
1,703,757
Long-term debt 8,707,578
7,938,934
Other long-term obligations 949,554
1,121,364
Total liabilities 20,199,243
18,812,208
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Preferred Stock, no par value, 10,000,000 shares
authorized; none outstanding -
-
Common Stock, no par value, 20,000,000 shares
authorized; 1,861,106 and 1,860,261 shares issued and
outstanding, respectively 1,446,182
1,560,440
Retained earnings (accumulated deficit) 201,186
(646,168)
Total shareholders' equity 1,647,368
914,272
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 21,846,611
$ 19,726,480
Reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA is not a U.S. generally accepted accounting principle ("GAAP") measure of performance or liquidity. However, the Company believes that it may be useful to an investor in evaluating the Company's ability to meet future debt service, capital expenditures and working capital requirements, and the Company uses Adjusted EBITDA for this purpose. Investors should not consider Adjusted EBITDA in isolation or as a substitute for operating income, cash flows from operating activities or any other measure for determining the Company's operating performance or liquidity that is calculated in accordance with GAAP. In addition, because Adjusted EBITDA is not calculated in accordance with GAAP, it may not necessarily be comparable to similarly titled measures employed by other companies. A reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net loss can be made by adding depreciation and amortization expense - Offices, depreciation and amortization expense Corporate, stock-based compensation expense, interest expense, net and income tax benefit to net loss as in the table below.
Quarters
Nine Months
Ended September 30,
Ended September 30,
2015
2016
2015
2016 RECONCILIATION OF ADJUSTED EBITDA:
Net loss ($226,636)
($516,516)
($330,005)
($847,354)
Add back:
Depreciation and amortization - Offices 1,061,157
988,031
3,255,507
3,026,164
Depreciation and amortization - Corporate 62,616
47,114
174,524
165,994
Stock-based compensation expense 42,075
32,309
169,338
123,118
Interest expense, net 24,143
70,367
74,700
185,240
Income tax benefit (144,897)
(286,131)
(210,986)
(497,653)
Adjusted EBITDA $818,458
$335,174
$3,133,078
$2,155,509
SOURCE Birner Dental Management Services, Inc.
Related Links
http://www.bdms-perfectteeth.com
CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Boston Biomedical, an industry leader in the development of novel compounds designed to target cancer stemness pathways, announced that its lead investigational compound, napabucasin, has received Orphan Drug Designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. This is the second Orphan Drug Designation for napabucasin, an orally administered agent designed to inhibit cancer stemness pathways by targeting STAT3; the first designation was for gastric cancer including gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancer.
"Receiving another Orphan Drug Designation for napabucasin is an important regulatory milestone achieved by Boston Biomedical and an exciting step towards the clinical advancement of this first-in-class therapy," said Chiang J. Li, M.D. FACP, President, CEO and Chief Medical Officer of Boston Biomedical, and the Head of Global Oncology for Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Group. "Pancreatic cancer has a five year survival rate of 7% and few viable treatment options. This designation represents our determination to address an unmet need and potentially bring a new treatment to those with this difficult-to-treat cancer."
The FDA's Orphan Drug Designation program provides special status and development incentives for drugs and biologics which are intended for the safe and effective treatment, diagnosis or prevention of rare diseases/disorders that affect fewer than 200,000 people in the U.S.i In 2016, it is estimated that over 53,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.ii
Phase Ib data for napabucasin in metastatic pancreatic cancer (NCT02231723) were previously presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology 2016 annual meeting. These data showed that napabucasin may be combined with gemcitabine and nab-PTX and showed signs of anti-tumor activity in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer. Of the 37 patients enrolled in the study, fifty-seven percent of patients (17 of 30 evaluable patients) had prolonged disease control (24 weeks).iii Common adverse events (AEs) identified in this clinical trial were grade 1 diarrhea, nausea, fatigue and neuropathy, which were reversible and manageable with symptom medications.iii
About Cancer Stem Cells
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) possess the property of stemness the ability to self-renew and differentiate into heterogeneous cancer cells. This allows the CSCs to act like seeds, causing a patient's cancer to relapse or spread within their body.iv,v Evidence suggests that these cells possess resistance to conventional chemotherapy and radiation, so while such treatments can successfully shrink tumors, a population of CSCs may still survive.v,vi
Boston Biomedical is leading the biopharmaceutical industry in the development of novel compounds designed to target cancer stemness pathways, with the goal of addressing ongoing challenge in cancer treatment.
About Napabucasin
Napabucasin is an orally-administered investigational agent designed to inhibit cancer stemness pathways by targeting STAT3.vii
Napabucasin is currently being investigated in three Phase III studies in advanced gastric and GEJ (NCT02178956), colorectal (NCT02753127) and lung cancer (NCT02826161). It is also being investigated in earlier phases in multiple solid and hematologic malignancies, including tumors of the liver, pancreas and brain. More information on napabucasin and ongoing clinical trials can be found at www.BostonBiomedical.com.
About Boston Biomedical
Boston Biomedical, Inc. (Founder, President, CEO and CMO: Chiang J. Li, M.D. FACP) was founded in November 2006 and is wholly owned by Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd. Boston Biomedical's mission is to develop the next generation of cancer therapeutics by creating drugs designed to target cancer stemness pathways. Boston Biomedical's innovation in drug discovery has received a number of recognitions and awards in the United States, including the Frost & Sullivan 2010 North American Drug Discovery Technology Innovation of the Year Award, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) cancer stem cell initiative grant award in 2010, and the 2011 Biotech Pioneer Award at the Alexandria Oncology Summit. The company also received the "Company To Watch" award in the 10th Annual Team Massachusetts Economic Impact Awards in 2013. Boston Biomedical is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
Additional information about the company and its product pipeline can be found at www.BostonBiomedical.com.
Disclaimer Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
The forward-looking statements in this press release are based on management's assumptions and beliefs in light of information presently available, and involve both known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Any forward looking statements set forth in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release. We do not undertake to update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date hereof. Information concerning pharmaceuticals (including compounds under development) contained within this material is not intended as advertising or medical advice.
For general inquiries:
Boston Biomedical
617-674-6800
For media inquiries:
Sara Baker
CHAMBERLAIN PR
212-849-9474
[email protected]
i FDA. "Developing Products for Rare Diseases & Conditions." Accessed on November 11, 2016. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/forindustry/developingproductsforrarediseasesconditions/ucm2005525.htm
ii National Cancer Institute: Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program. "SEER Stat Fact Sheets: Pancreas Cancer." Accessed on November 4, 2016. Available at: http://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/pancreas.html
iii Boston Biomedical. "A Phase Ib extension study of cancer stemness inhibitor BB608 (Napabucasin) in combination with Gemcitabine and nab-Paclitaxel (nab-PTX) in patients (pts) with metastatic pancreatic cancer." Accessed on November 11, 2016. Available at: http://www.bostonbiomedical.com/wp-content/uploads/Abst4128-BBI608-118-ASCO2016.pdf.
iv Gupta PB, Chaffer CL, Weinberg RA. Cancer stem cells: mirage or reality? Nat Med. 2009;15(9):1010-1012.
v Ajani JA, Song S, Hochster HS, Steinberg IB. Cancer stem cells: the promise and the potential. Semin Oncol. 2015;42(suppl 1):S3-S17.
vi Jordan CT, Guzman ML, Noble M. Cancer stem cells. N Engl J Med. 2006;355(12):1253-1261.
vii Li Y, Rogoff HA et al. PNAS. 112(6):1839-44, 2015.
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SOURCE Boston Biomedical, Inc.
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http://www.BostonBiomedical.com
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Brightway Insurance continues to grow as its second location in the Grand Canyon State is opening today. Veteran Insurance Agent, Shauna Summ, is the proud Owner of Brightway, The Shauna Summ Agency in Phoenix, Ariz. Brightway is the seventh largest privately held Personal Lines independent insurance agency in the country.
Also today, Mo Hassan is opening the doors to Brightway, The Hassan Agency in Kennesaw, Ga. Inspired by the successes his uncle, Hasan Mehedi, has experienced as a Brightway Agency Owner in Florida, Hassan decided that opening a Brightway Agency would be a great fit for him and the people in his community. Mehedi's agency in West Palm Beach, Fla., is a top 25 Brightway agency in terms of annualized premium.
"We're thrilled to have Mo Hassan and Shauna Summ as our newest Brightway Agency Owners," said Brightway President, Talman Howard. "Shauna has a solid reputation for providing expert counsel to her customers, and Mo is a real go-getter who has a passion for running his own business and being an integral part of his community. A team of experts stand behind Shauna and Mo to provide support through customer service, carrier relationships, marketing, accounting and technology so they can focus on taking the time to get to know each of their customers and finding them the right insurance solutions."
Brightway, The Shauna Summ Agency is located at 21620 N 19th Ave., Suite A10 in Phoenix, Ariz. (near the West Deer Valley Road intersection). For more information, visit BrightwayShaunaSumm.com.
Brightway, The Hassan Agency is located at 2615 George Busbee Parkway Suite 10-D in Kennesaw, Ga. (across the street from the Town Center at Cobb). For more information, visit BrightwayMoHassan.com.
In addition to Brightway's two newest agencies, Brightway, The Landers Agency celebrated with a ribbon-cutting event on Nov. 2. Agency Owner, Kandie Landers, opened the agency at 650 South Cherry Street, Suite 102 (at the corner of Cherry Street and Exposition Avenue) in Glendale, Colo., July 11. For more information, visit BrightwayLanders.com.
Brightway agencies offer customized Home, Condo, Renters, Auto, Flood, RV, Motorcycle, Boat, ATV, Umbrella, Business and Life insurance policies from twice as many insurance carriers as do other independent agencies. With more than twice as many insurance carriers to choose from, Brightway agencies outsell other independent insurance agencies two to one.
About Brightway Insurance
Brightway Insurance is a national property/casualty insurance retailer selling through a network of franchised independent agencies throughout the country. With more than $429 million in annualized premium written, the company is the nation's seventh largest privately held Personal Lines independent insurance agency.
Brightway began franchising operations in 2008 and has since grown to 770 people in 12 states serving customers in all 50 states. In 2015, Forbes recognized the company as America's No. 1 Franchise to Buy. Additionally, the company was named a top franchise three years in a row by Entrepreneur magazine and one of the fastest-growing private companies in America nine consecutive years by Inc. 5000. Learn more about Brightway at Brightway.com, and find us on Facebook and LinkedIn.
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SOURCE Brightway Insurance
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KANSAS CITY, Mo., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Burns & McDonnell, The Empire Electric District Company (Empire) and the Southeast Kansas Building and Construction Trades Council have received a Zero Injury Safety Award from the National Maintenance Agreements Policy Committee, Inc., for the Riverton Unit 12 Combined Cycle Conversion Project completed earlier in 2016. Burns & McDonnell served as the engineer-procure-construct (EPC) contractor for the $168 million project, located near Riverton, Kansas.
The award also recognized the contributions of major subcontractors, AZCO, Inc., Sachs Electric Company, and Kissick Construction among many others.
Over 618,000 work hours were logged on the Empire Riverton Unit 12 Combined Cycle Conversion Project with zero OSHA recordable or lost-time accidents.
"Empire deserves congratulations for this award along with all the subcontractors and the craft professionals for making sure that all work was planned and safety was a top priority," says Randy Griffin, President of the Construction Design-Build Division for Burns & McDonnell. "Safety is always the highest priority for Burns & McDonnell so we know that the first requirement is to get everyone pulling in the same direction every day on the job."
The major elements of the safety program included Burns & McDonnell's standard Activity Hazard Analysis (AHA), Pre-Task Analysis (PTA), and Task Safety Observations (TSO). The AHA is focused on larger segments of the work, and is planned in detail before operations begin. The PTA is completed by each crew daily, and addresses the changing nature of the site. TSO's are required to be filled out by all staff and supervisors daily, and include a review of at least one operation plus an independent review of that crew's PTA.
The Empire Riverton Unit 12 Combined Cycle Conversion Project was launched after Empire decided to retire two older coal-fired units and replace the lost capacity by converting the existing Unit 12 simple cycle natural gas-fired unit to a one-on-one combined cycle unit. The new combined cycle unit boosts power output by 67 percent, from 143 to 255 megawatts (MW) while using very little additional fuel. In addition to the Zero Injury Safety Award, the Riverton project received an Award of Merit from Engineering News-Record magazine as one of the top power projects in the central U.S.
About Burns & McDonnell
Burns & McDonnell is a company made up of more than 5,400 engineers, architects, construction professionals, scientists, consultants and entrepreneurs with offices across the United States, Canada and throughout the world. Burns & McDonnell is ranked as the No. 1 Power engineering design firm by Engineering News-Record magazine and is ranked No. 14 overall among the Top 500 engineering design firms. We strive to create amazing success for our clients and amazing careers for our employee-owners. Burns & McDonnell is 100 percent employee-owned and is proud to be No. 16 on Fortune's 2016 list of 100 Best Companies to Work For.
For more information: click here
Contact: Roger Dick, Burns & McDonnell
816-822-3339
[email protected]
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SOURCE Burns & McDonnell
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http://www.burnsmcd.com
PHOENIX, Ariz., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- JUMORE Chairman Lu Hongxiang was invited to attend the 2016 Global Innovation Summit held in Phoenix City, U.S.A. In the summit, He introduced the strategic concept and business model of JUMORE to the Chinese and foreign entrepreneurs onsite. Global entrepreneurs were very impressed by the contribution of JUMORE's business model, and expressed their strong willingness to cooperate with JUMORE and join the ecosystem created by JUMORE globally.
JUMORE is the world's first cross-border e-commerce platform for commodities, goods, and services by creating a unique and brand new business model E4B (Ecosystem for Business). On JUMORE platform, all clients can make transactions with the upstream and downstream of the industrial chain of full-line commodities, and receive comprehensive service and support from first-class service institutions in the world.
Via JUMORE E-Commerce Platform, American companies can connect with the enormous purchase orders from medium and large-scale companies from China, and make deals with their Chinese and even global business partners safely and effectively. Meanwhile, JUMORE Platform also offers reliable and high-quality products from China and the world, as well as abundant investment projects, which will both provide great opportunities for cooperation to companies.
It is worth noting that JUMORE highly focuses on the values of clients and cares about their security. JUMORE is creating the safest e-commerce platform in the world with its own business ecosystem. All companies on the platform are recommended by governments or chambers of commerce, and are certified through authoritative third-party certification institutions. Such approach significantly differs JUMORE from other e-commerce platforms. Meanwhile, through cooperation with first-class financial institutions in the world, JUMORE has introduced security mechanisms to ensure the payment security; through that with first-class third-party logistics and insurance institutions, JUMORE is providing safety guarantee to the transaction and logistics processes of commodities, to make sure the security of commodities.
SOURCE JUMORE
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, tonight decried the appointment of anti-Muslim conspiracy theorist and White nationalist "alt-right" extremist Stephen Bannon as chief strategist and senior counselor to President-elect Donald Trump.
Bannon, formerly head of alt-right mouthpiece "Breitbart News," promoted conspiracy theories that "paint a dark and paranoid picture" of American Muslims. Breitbart News traffics in misogynistic and racist stories targeting women, people of color and immigrants.
A White Nationalist Is the New White House Chief Strategist
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/steve-bannon-chief-strategist_us_5828e1d4e4b0c4b63b0d33d7
Trump Campaign CEO Was a Big Promoter of Anti-Muslim Extremists
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2016/09/stephen-bannon-donald-trump-muslims-fear-loathing
According to CAIR's Islamophobia Monitor website, Bannon also hosted a daily radio show in which many of his guests "instigated fear and loathing of Muslims in America" and promoted "racist, anti-immigrant, and anti-Muslim content."
"The appointment of Stephen Bannon as a top Trump administration strategist sends the disturbing message that anti-Muslim conspiracy theories and White nationalist ideology will be welcome in the White House," said CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad. "We urge President-elect Trump to reconsider this ill-advised appointment if he truly seeks to unite Americans."
Awad added that Bannon's appointment adds fuel to the growing fire of racial and ethnic hatred and division in America.
CAIR recently updated its site with information about the extremist anti-Muslim views of a number of potential Trump administration appointees, including Bannon.
CAIR Islamophobia Monitor: Islamophobia and the Potential Trump Team
http://www.islamophobia.org/15-reports/181-islamophobia-and-the-trump-transition-team.html
The Washington-based Muslim civil rights group is monitoring a troubling spike in anti-Muslim and racist incidents since last Tuesday's election.
CAIR: Trump's Election Leaves American Muslims Reeling and Scared (AP)
https://www.abqjournal.com/888211/trumps-election-leaves-american-muslims-reeling-and-scared.html
Over 200 Reports of Hateful Harassment and Intimidation Post-Election
http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/200-reports-hateful-harassment-intimidation-post-election-splc/story?id=43491050
CAIR: An Incomplete List of Racist Incidents Since Donald Trump Was Elected President
http://tinyurl.com/jjnzqhy
Muslim community members who believe their rights have been violated are being asked to contact local police and CAIR's Civil Rights Department at 202-742-6420 or by filing a report at: http://www.cair.com/civil-rights/report-an-incident/view/form.html
CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.
La mision de CAIR es mejorar la comprension del Islam, fomentar el dialogo, proteger las libertades civiles, capacitar a los musulmanes estadounidenses, y construir coaliciones que promuevan la justicia y la comprension mutua.
Become a Fan of CAIR on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/CAIRNational
Subscribe to CAIR's Email List
http://tinyurl.com/cairsubscribe
Subscribe to CAIR's Twitter Feed
http://twitter.com/cairnational
Subscribe to CAIR's YouTube Channel
http://www.youtube.com/cairtv
CONTACT: CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, [email protected]
SOURCE Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR)
Related Links
http://www.cair.com
The three events are as follows:
1. $3 Trillion Worth of New Gold Investors
One-quarter of the world's population that has never before invested in gold is about to begin doing so, and they're armed with $3 trillion in funds.
A new law going into effect at the end of 2016 is going to enable Muslims across the world to trade in gold for the first time. The World Gold Council is working with the Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions to create an acceptable standard for Muslims to trade in gold.
You may have heard some pretty controversial things about Sharia Law, but what you probably haven't heard is that this law also governs the world of Islamic finance.
Under Shariah Law, gold is one of six items which are forbidden from being held on to with the intention of trading at a later date for a higher foreseeable value. What this means is that Muslims can own gold to use as jewelry, for example, but up until now Shariah Law has dictated that Muslims refrain from trading the yellow metal as a commodity.
The ban is expected to be reversed on December 31st, at which point an additional 1.6 billion people, 32 central banks, and 112 billionaires, including the Saudi royal family and sheikhs famous for their oil wealth, will be eligible to invest in gold. Standard & Poor estimates that $3 trillion could flood into the gold market at that time. $3 trillion is enough to buy every ounce of gold in Fort Knox 17 times over.
2. A New Dominant Gold Market
As the current top importer, producer, and consumer of gold, China intends to take over the London and New York markets and become the dominant market controlling the price of gold. China has made it clear that with this authority, they have every intention of setting the price of gold on supply and demand of actual bullion. Again they want not only to control the price of gold, but base it on actual physical gold.
It's hard to exaggerate how truly game-changing this is.
Remember, for the last 40 years, the Libor and Comex Exchanges have priced gold on futures contracts, not physical bullion. In fact, only 1 in 252 paper gold contracts is backed by actual real bullion. So for nearly half a century, this has artificially suppressed the price of gold.
And now, the Chinese are about to change all of that.
Traders who buy futures on the new Shanghai Gold Exchange are required to deposit the contract's equivalent value in physical gold. So every single trade on the Shanghai fix will be backed by physical metal, not 252 to 1, but 1 to 1. Simply put: this is going to send the price of gold through the roof.
3. The third wave about to hit investors like a ton of bricks is this: the international supply of gold has hit its peak.
Like any finite resource, at a certain point, mining and extraction become sharply costly, and production will begin to decline. This decline comes after the commodity's peak, and like oil miners have officially hit peak gold. We (miners?) have hit "peak gold", that is the supply of gold has already begun to taper off.
Last year, Goldman Sachs warned that there's "only 20 years of known mineable gold reserves." Blackrock, the world's largest hedge fund, agrees that we've reached "peak gold."
Right now, the production of gold is rapidly shrinking, just as demand is soaring.
This upcoming gold upswing will dwarf anything that's happened before. In short: the yellow metal is about to become far more lucrative.
With all this important information out there, it's imperative that you speak to any of Capital Gold Group's gold traders to help you make an informed decision on not only protecting your money, but also taking advantage of this huge opportunity.
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SOURCE Capital Gold Group
Related Links
http://www.capitalgoldgroup.com
CHICAGO, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Cars.com announced today the appointment of Brooke Skinner Ricketts as the company's chief marketing officer (CMO), effective immediately. Skinner Ricketts most recently served as vice president of brand and design at Avant. Previously she was head of brand strategy at Twitter, where she delivered revenue-driving creative ideas for Fortune 200 clients.
"Cars.com is here to help people win, and by welcoming Brooke, we're delivering on that promise," said Alex Vetter, president and chief executive officer of Cars.com. "As we prepare to become an independent, publicly traded company in early 2017, Brooke's strong track record of optimizing marketing effectiveness and implementing forward-thinking brand strategies will move Cars.com toward becoming the trusted platform of choice for automotive consumers and advertisers alike."
"I'm thrilled to be joining the team at Cars.com and becoming part of one of Chicago's homegrown digital pioneers," Skinner Ricketts said. "It's such an exciting time for Cars.com and I know that the company and the brand are both in a great position to grow and thrive in the next stage of our evolution."
Prior to her time at Avant and Twitter, Skinner Ricketts was senior vice president of brand strategy at DigitasLBi from 2011 until 2014. Her responsibilities included building a strategy practice and opening a new office in San Francisco. From 2004 until 2011, Skinner Ricketts led efforts to refresh brand relevance across a large global portfolio at FCB and DraftFCB. While there, she quickly climbed the ladder from strategic planner to senior vice president of global strategic planning. Skinner Ricketts launched her career at Doe Anderson and PriceWeber in Louisville, Kentucky.
Skinner Ricketts received her bachelor of arts degree from Bard College at Simon's Rock in Great Barrington, Massachusetts. In 2014, she was recognized by Crain's Chicago Business as a member of its 40 Under 40 class and, this year, she was named to Crain's Tech 50 list. Skinner Ricketts became a Leadership Greater Chicago Fellow in 2014 and is on the boards of Housing Opportunities for Women, Chicago Cubs Charities and She100.
ABOUT CARS.COM
Cars.com is a leading online destination that helps car shoppers and owners navigate every turn of car ownership. A pioneer in automotive classifieds, the company has evolved into one of the largest digital automotive platforms, connecting consumers with local dealers across the country anytime, anywhere. Through trusted expert content, on-the-lot mobile app features, millions of new and used vehicle listings, a comprehensive set of research tools and the largest database of consumer reviews in the industry, Cars.com helps shoppers buy, sell and service their vehicles.
Cars.com properties include DealerRater, Auto.com, PickupTrucks.com and NewCars.com. The company was founded in 1998 and is headquartered in Chicago. It is owned by TEGNA, Inc.
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SOURCE Cars.com
CORONA DEL MAR, Calif., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Cedars-Sinai is expanding its radiation oncology services in the Los Angeles area with the addition of a treatment center that offers state-of-the-art cancer therapies in a comfortable and convenient location less than a mile from the hospital campus. The center will be a collaboration with Integrated Oncology Network, LLC ("ION") and gives Beverly Hills residents local access to the center's vast resources and leading-edge treatments.
The treatment center adds to a growing roster of Cedars-Sinai radiation oncology services. Cedars-Sinai already offers radiation oncology at its main hospital campus and at its affiliate, The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute in Santa Monica.
The 8,500-square-foot facility, at 8929 Wilshire Blvd. in Beverly Hills, will be fully integrated into the Cedars-Sinai medical record system. Lab tests, X-rays and reports will flow seamlessly between the center and the hospital.
"Patients will receive the same level of care that's delivered at all of our locations," said Howard M. Sandler, MD, chair of the Department of Radiation Oncology at Cedars-Sinai's Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute.
Cedars-Sinai physicians and employees will staff the treatment center. Mitchell Kamrava, MD, a radiation oncologist joining Cedars-Sinai from UCLA Health, will lead the team and report to Sandler.
The center offers Varian TrueBeam linear accelerator technology, a radiotherapy system that delivers fast cancer treatments with pinpoint accuracy and precision while protecting nearby healthy tissue and organs.
"State-of-the-art radiation machines and contemporary and comfortable surroundings will help Cedars-Sinai patients and their families feel at home," Sandler said. "We look forward to providing this important treatment option for those who need it."
"ION has been focused on expanding our physician networks across the United States and affiliating with larger healthcare systems to provide quality and cost-efficient patient care. We are honored to be affiliated with Cedars Sinai, which is one of the largest, most prestigious nonprofit academic medical centers in the U.S.," said Jeffrey Goffman, ION's CEO.
About ION
Integrated Oncology Network Holdings, LLC and its subsidiaries ("ION" or the "Company") is a radiation oncology management and cancer center development company that partners with hospitals and physicians that seek strategic, financial and management expertise. ION provides strategic solutions, development for cancer centers, financing and management services with expertise in radiation oncology operations including accounting compliance, IT, M&A, physics and dosimetry, and billing & collection. ION's senior management team has over 150 years of combined health care expertise, including working as a trusted resource with several of the most prestigious oncology groups and hospital systems in the country. ION is a partner in 21 radiation cancer centers across the United States. For more information on ION, please visit our web site at www.ion-llc.com.
SOURCE Integrated Oncology Network
Related Links
http://www.ion-llc.com
CHICAGO, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Ostrow Reisin Berk & Abrams, Ltd. (ORBA), one of Chicago's largest public accounting firms, has been awarded a 2016 Top Workplaces honor by the Chicago Tribune. The Top Workplaces lists are based solely on the results of an employee feedback survey administered by WorkplaceDynamics, LLC, a leading research firm that specializes in organizational health and workplace improvement. Several aspects of workplace culture were measured, including alignment, execution and connection, just to name a few.
This is the seventh year in a row that ORBA has received a Top Workplaces distinction by the Chicago Tribune.
"ORBA has seen tremendous growth in the past year. At the heart of this growth is the strength and the value that our employees bring to the company," says Mark Thomson, Managing Director at ORBA. "This award is a testament not only to their hard work, but to the cohesive and productive work environment to which they contribute, and I am proud to share in this honor with them."
WorkplaceDynamics specializes in employee feedback surveys and workplace improvement. This year alone, more than two million employees in over 6,000 organizations will participate in the Top Workplaces campaign.
"The Top Workplaces award is not a popularity contest. And oftentimes, people assume it's all about fancy perks and benefits," says Doug Claffey, CEO of WorkplaceDynamics, "But to be a Top Workplace, organizations must meet our strict standards for organizational health. And who better to ask about work life than the people who live the culture every daythe employees."
Ostrow Reisin Berk & Abrams, Ltd. (ORBA) is a full-service accounting, tax and business consulting firm located in downtown Chicago serving privately-held companies, individuals and not-for-profit organizations. ORBA's Certified Public Accountants have experience with accounting and assurance, business advisory services, financial and estate planning, fraud investigation, tax, litigation, and mergers and acquisitions. With some of the highest levels of direct client involvement in the industry, ORBA is where clients go to build long-standing, meaningful and successful relationships with resourceful, proactive business and tax advisors. For more information, visit www.orba.com. Subscribe to our blog www.orbablog.com or connect with us on LinkedIn.
Contact: Carlo Calma
312.670.7444
[email protected]
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SOURCE Ostrow Reisin Berk & Abrams, Ltd.
Related Links
http://www.orba.com
(Beijing) China will have 14 million more preschool-aged children by 2021, the result of the country's scrapping the one-child policy in October 2015, and the country needs to build 100,000 new kindergartens to avoid a severe shortage of classroom seats, a study found.
The number of preschool-aged children will rise 27% to 66 million in 2021, an increase expected after the Communist Party said last year that all couples may now have two children, according to a recent research published in the Journal of Studies in Early Childhood Education.
The country needs to build 95,800 new "kindergartens" over the next five years to accommodate the rising number of preschool-aged children, the study said. It is a 43% increase from the current 223,700 preschools in the country, according to the research lead by Li Ling, a professor of education at Southwest University in Chongqing.
In the Chinese education system, kindergartens are for 3-to-6-year-olds, unlike many Western nations like the U.S., where kindergarten is for 5- and 6-year-olds and is part of local public-school systems.
The government needs to step up spending on public kindergartens and increase subsidies for private schools, it recommends.
About 16 million children, or nearly a quarter of all students in the preschool-age bracket, mostly in rural China, are unable to attend school, according to a study by Peking University's China Institute for Educational Finance Research released earlier this month.
Contact reporter Li Rongde (rongdeli@caixin.com); editor Poornima Weerasekara (poornima@caixin.com)
This car seat, described as a "high-speed" car seat by Goodbaby, embeds a GBES (GB Energy Suspension) honeycomb aluminum device, which can rapidly absorb the massive impact forces resulting from a car collision or accident; providing better protection for the children riding in the vehicle. It has passed the impact test at a speed of 80 km/h, currently the highest speed of car seat impact test in the world, while all performance indexes comply with the highest standards of ECE R44, US FMVSS 213 or GB 27887. Other car seats available in the market are only able to pass the impact test at a speed of 50 km/h -- the mandatory minimum standard as dictated by the car seat industry. Even ADAC, the most authoritative star rating organization in Europe, only tests up to 70km/h.
This high-speed car seat by Goodbaby not only passes the test at speeds significantly higher than those required by the mandatory impact test standards, but also delivers substantially better performance than its peers. It previously underwent a collision test in a real vehicle travelling at a speed of 94.7 km/h, delivering head injury criteria of 377, better than the standard of 1,000 stipulated by the US FMVSS 213 (stipulation not required by ECE R44). It also received a chest synthesis acceleration of 29.5 g, far below the 55 g required by ECE R44 and GB 27887, and the 60 g required by the FMVSS 213. Above all, these two test results show that this car seat significantly improves the safety of a child in a moving vehicle by more than 40%, when compared to any other car seat.
As one of the world's largest durable juvenile product providers, and one of the most well-known brand operators, Goodbaby has created, researched and developed many innovate products that make baby and child care safer and easier. In 2014, Goodbaby acquired the Germany-based company CYBEX, an award-winning producer of infant car seats and high back boosters, and the US-based Evenflo, one of the earliest entrants into the juvenile industry with a track record as a market leader since 1920. These acquisitions transformed Goodbaby into a leader in terms of brand, scale, technology and market across the global car seat industry. In 2015, the company's car seat products occupied a market share of 23% in the USA, 31% in Europe and over 35% in China, respectively.
Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20161113/438657
SOURCE Goodbaby
NEW YORK, November 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --
ChineseInvestors.com (OTCQB: CIIX) ("CIIX" or the "Company"), the premier financial information website for Chinese-speaking investors in both the U.S. and China, announces today that it will launch the world's first Chinese-language mobile cannabis navigation application. This cannabis 'Yelp' style social media mobile app will contain a database of marijuana dispensaries and cannabis strains, a platform to review and discuss various cannabis products, and maps showing the locations of medical and recreational cannabis dispensaries. In addition, the mobile app will offer cannabis business summary reports of Los Angeles and other large cities, so that users can easily get the best recommendations for local legal marijuana products. The Company intends to launch this application on January 1st, 2017, and the platform will expand to include cannabis merchant advertising and tourism recommendations in the next few years.
By a margin of 56% to 44%, California voters passed Proposition 64 on November 8th, making it the fifth state to legalize recreational cannabis. With the addition of California, Massachusetts, Maine and Nevada, the percentage of Americans living in states where cannabis use is legal for adults rose from 5 percent to 20 percent. The approval of Proposition 64 implies that the legal cannabis industry in California will expand rapidly and cannabis trade revenues are expected to double in the coming year. The demand and popularity for legal cannabis products among Chinese communities have the potential to grow, as California has millions of Chinese in its population. Currently, there are about 1,250 cannabis retailers in the regions of Los Angeles and San Diego and the number is expected to grow after the legalization of recreational cannabis use.
Warren Wang, founder and CEO of CIIX, commented: "Many Chinese investors still have a bias against the cultivation and sales of cannabis, yet its effectiveness in the fields of medicine, food, cosmetics and other industries cannot be ignored. And for those Chinese who do accept medical or recreational use of cannabis, they will need help in locating appropriate resources to assist them in learning how to utilize cannabis in an effective way. The cannabis 'Yelp' style social media mobile app developed by our company is specifically designed to help curious Chinese people do this. Furthermore, this application will help Chinese investors discover valuable business opportunities in cannabis cultivation, advertising and tourism."
Mr. Wang further remarked: "With the gradual opening up of cannabis industry in the U.S., marijuana manufacturing and retail as well as research and development, will expand at a rapid pace. The legal cannabis industry in the U.S. is expected to be worth $50 billion by 2026, expanding to more than eight times its current size. We strongly believe that the current cannabis industry among Chinese communities can be considered as an emerging market. And we feel that our new cannabis navigation mobile application will bring more curious Chinese investors to this emerging market and more funding to the whole cannabis industry. CIIX will become the hub or most recognizable source for information and analysis among the Chinese cannabis consumer and investor."
About ChineseInvestors.com (OTCQB: CIIX):
ChineseInvestors.com, Inc. ('CIIX'), founded in 1999 endeavors to be an innovative company; providing (a) real-time market commentary, analysis, and educational related services in Chinese language character sets (traditional and simplified), (b) support services to our various partners, (c) consultative services to smaller private companies considering becoming a public company, (d) advertising and public relation related support services, and (e) other services we may identify having the potential to create value or partnership opportunity with our existing services.
Subscribe and watch our video commentaries: https://www.youtube.com/user/Chinesefncom
Follow us on Twitter for real time Company updates: https://twitter.com/ChineseFNEnglsh
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Chineseinvestors.com Inc.
14 Wall Street 20th Floor
New York, NY 10005
Office Tel: +1-(800)-958-8561
SOURCE ChineseInvestors.com, Inc
NEW YORK, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- CI&T, the digital technology agency empowering Agile Growth for the world's biggest companies today announced it has been selected as a winner for the 2016 Acquia Engage Awards in the Financial Services category for its work with Commonwealth Financial Network. The Acquia Engage Awards recognize the amazing sites and digital experiences that organizations are building with the Acquia Platform.
"Receiving the Acquia Engage Award for Financial Services is an immense accolade for CI&T and reinforces our commitment to providing the most advanced technology solutions to each of our partners," said Bruno Guicardi, president of CI&T. "This recognition from Acquia and the expert Drupal communities solidifies CI&T's position as a leader in digital technology solutions."
CI&T partnered with Acquia to leverage its Acquia Cloud Site Factory tool and build a totally revamped digital platform for Commonwealth, providing a new UX and mobile friendly web experience to more than 800 financial advisors. CI&T's extensive knowledge of Drupal and Acquia Cloud Site Factory was key to defining and implementing a robust architecture, therefore leveraging the foundation needed for rapid development and value activation.
In addition to its win with Commonwealth, CI&T was honored as a finalist in the Commerce, Health Sciences and Healthcare categories.
"Acquia's partners and customers are working tirelessly to raise the bar and drive the future of digital. Together we're helping organizations develop elegant solutions that inspire and engage audiences and drive significant value for their businesses," said Joe Wykes, senior vice president of global channels & eCommerce at Acquia. "This year's winners are working closely with Acquia to not only execute on today's opportunities, but to also lay the groundwork for success in the world of tomorrow. The breadth of submissions was inspiring, and continues to affirm that Acquia partners and customers are setting the new precedent for exceptional digital experiences."
More than 150 submissions were received from Acquia customers and partners, from which 13 were selected as winners. Nominations that demonstrated an advanced level of visual design, functionality, integration and overall experience advanced to the finalist round, where an outside panel of experts from the Drupal and web content management communities selected the winning projects.
The full list of winners for the 2016 Acquia Engage Awards are posted to Acquia's website.
About CI&T
CI&T is the digital technology agency empowering Agile Growth for the world's biggest companies by leveraging advanced technologies including Cloud, IoT, Big Data, Machine Learning/AI, Social, Mobility. For over 20 years, CI&T has been a trusted partner in helping global businesses such as Coca-Cola, Johnson & Johnson, Walmart and Motorola build, manage, and transform the enterprise through the right combination of next generation technologies. With over 2,000 Digital Business Experts and Engineers in the USA, Brazil, UK, Australia, Japan, and China, CI&T is big enough to handle the needs of Fortune 100 clients while remaining agile, lean and able to move bold ideas to market fast. For more information, visit www.ciandt.com.
About Acquia
Acquia is the leading provider of cloud-based, digital experience management solutions. Forward-thinking organizations rely on Acquia to transform the way they can engage with customers -- in a personal and contextual way, across every device and channel. Acquia provides the agility organizations need to embrace new digital business models and speed innovation and time to market. With Acquia, thousands of customers globally including the BBC, Cisco, Stanford University, and the Australian Government are delivering digital experiences with transformational business impact. For more information visit www.acquia.com or call +1 617 588 9600.
Media Contact:
Zella Panossian
Illume PR
1-310-452-4446
[email protected]
SOURCE CI&T
Related Links
http://www.ciandt.com
New release supports global collaboration, open science and takes the guesswork out of journal submissions
PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Clarivate Analytics, formerly the Intellectual Property & Science business of Thomson Reuters today announced the availability of EndNote X8, the next iteration of the leading software for researchers, librarians and students to find, manage and create bibliographies, citations and references to research smarter.
Research collaboration has taken on a whole new meaning in the digital age. From 1998 through 2011, papers with 50 or more authors doubled in quantity from roughly 500 per year to more than 1,000. With research on the rise, the latest version of EndNote addresses this trend and enables researchers to work smarter to produce novel research no matter where their location. EndNote X8 now includes support to share an entire EndNote research library, including references, PDFs and annotations with up to 100 people. Collaborators can add to, annotate and cite from the shared library in real-time, with unlimited cloud storage at no additional cost. A built-in activity feed allows users to identify new members and to track the latest changes made to the library by their collaborators.
"Our goal is addressing the needs of the market and in particular the end users," said George Kowal, head of researcher solutions at Clarivate Analytics. "X8 does exactly this in support of enabling their research to move forward more effectively with enhanced collaboration."
With competition to get published at an all time high, delays due to mismanaged references are nonexistent when the right references are only a click away. EndNote keeps its users in step with the constantly evolving world of scholarly research and publishing by providing the ability to search, organize and share reference materials, as well as automatically format bibliographies, cutting down on the time spent collecting research and writing manuscripts, patent applications and grant proposals. In addition, with EndNote's manuscript matcher, users can reduce the risk of publication rejection by identifying journals where their research is most likely to be accepted based on an analysis of tens of millions of citation connections in Web of Science, a collection of meticulously indexed data from thousands of journals, across hundreds of global publishers.
"As the industry's premier reference management resource, EndNote plays an integral role in today's demanding research landscape and the shifting trends in multi-disciplinary and global research collaboration," said Jessica Turner, global head of government and academia at Clarivate Analytics. "With 4 million users from over 100,000 companies and academic institutions worldwide, we recognize the important part EndNote plays in the research process and remain fully committed to providing our customers with the best reference management solution for the future."
EndNote X8 is available for Mac and Windows and syncs seamlessly with EndNote online and the EndNote iPad application.
For more information on EndNote, or to request a free 30-day trial, visit: endnote.com/downloads/30-day-trial.
Learn more about Growing Together: Research Collaboration and Technology, on State of Innovation, and read the report that examines factors that have influenced the rise of collaboration, along with resources that can track and illuminate research partnerships across the globe.
Clarivate Analytics
Clarivate Analytics accelerates the pace of innovation by providing trusted insights and analytics to customers around the world, enabling them to discover, protect and commercialize new ideas, faster. Formerly the Intellectual Property and Science business of Thomson Reuters, we've been assisting our customers for over 60 years. Now as an independent company with over 4,000 employees, operating in more than 100 countries around the world, we remain expert, objective and agile. For more information, please visit us at Clarivate.com.
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SOURCE Clarivate Analytics
Related Links
http://clarivate.com
RALEIGH, N.C., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Clean Design, an award-winning branding + advertising agency, today announced it has been named agency of record for Affordable Care as the national dental support organization looks to expand and improve its dentist recruitment marketing. Affordable Care supports a network of more than 230 affiliated Affordable Dentures and Affordable Dentures & Implants practices in 39 states. Clean Design will provide branding, overall marketing strategy and creative services to support dentist recruitment efforts within Affordable Care.
An integral part of the Affordable Care offering is its practice ownership program, a 360-degree business support system that offers resources to help dentists open and maintain their own successful practices. The company provides support for nonclinical duties, including recruiting and human resources, advertising and marketing, real estate and equipment upgrades, and IT services.
"Affordable Care has revolutionized the tooth replacement industry with a unique, same-day business model ideally suited to both patients and dentists across the country," said Clean Design CEO Natalie Perkins. "Our team looks forward to partnering with their recruitment team to help further solidify their market leadership position."
"As we continue to grow our affiliated practice network, we need an agency that can help craft and shape our vision," said Matt McCallum, Affordable Care senior director of recruiting. "With an impressive team and a reputation for innovative, spot-on strategy, Clean Design was the right fit to help guide us as we work to better understand the benefits our practice owners enjoy, so we can align dentist recruitment with our accelerated growth plans."
Founded in 1975, Affordable Dentures & Implants affiliates have treated more than 6 million patients for dentures, dental implants, and other tooth replacement options. Headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina, Affordable Care is owned by private equity firm Berkshire Partners LLC.
About Clean Design
Clean Design is an award-winning brand + design agency with a diverse client portfolio featuring Red Hat, Lenovo, Yadkin Bank, Builders Mutual, UNC Kenan-Flagler, and Durham Distillery. Ranked the #1 design firm in the Triangle for the past seven years, the agency offers integrated marketing solutions including branding, advertising, digital marketing, graphic design, public relations, media planning, and content. A woman-owned business, Clean Design has been awarded HUB certification by the State of North Carolina.
cleandesign.com
CONTACT: Alyson Stanely, 1-919-719-4510, [email protected]
SOURCE Clean Design
Related Links
http://cleandesign.com
LAKEWAY, Texas, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Considering the success that Fai Chan has enjoyed as a clinical aromatherapist and writer/publisher since the 2014 launch of Deli Aroma, her holistic healings protocols company, it's hard to believe that just a few years ago, she was stuck in a mindset where she didn't know what she wanted to or could ever achieve.
Her life's purpose as an aromatherapist began taking shape when she found a doctor who helped heal her debilitating acne scars, which had fueled years of pain and insecurity. "I was so determined to heal completely because I needed to go forward and pursue my dream," she says. "I felt like I finally woke up. I learned aromatherapy because I wanted to earn money for myself and not only rely on my husband. I developed a passion for it because I learned how effective it was in healing emotional issues. I gradually found that I had the talent to formulate the right products and essential oils to help people."
Fai says she rarely planned ahead in her earlier life, but she was ready to embrace a vibrant future once she found this path. Moving back to Austin, where she currently lives, she took all the necessary courses to get her certification and became a clinical member (and later a board member) of the world renowned Aromatherapy Association AIA (Alliance of International Aromatherapists).
Based on a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) framework, with the synergistic effects of combining a therapeutic approach with chemistry, Fai's remedies have proven very effective. "I take joy in knowing my clients personally, and am devoted to giving them personalized care," she says. "I ask a lot of upfront questions and put a lot of time and effort into doing follow-ups as well. As a therapist, it's always a joy to help people become free of constraints, free of restraints and free of limitations. People are not slaves to their ailments, physical or mental."
Even though she has lived in America for over a decade, her proficiency with her native Chinese language has led her to concurrently pursue her writing career by sharing her expertise and educating people in China via a multitude of exciting platforms. She has thus far published two non-fiction books in Chinese, and is currently working on her first novel, which will also incorporate aromatherapy, sharing its value via an entertaining fictional story to maximize the number of potential readers.
Feeling she wanted to do something for the Chinese community in Greater China, Fai set up a successful aromatherapy information webpage in Weibo (the largest Chinese social media outlet). In addition, she is the publisher of Aroma Search, a digital Chinese aromatherapy journal. She writes a regular blog on her website (www.deliaroma.com), and helps other aromatherapists translate their work into Chinese for that market. She is also set to co-author an international book concerning aromatherapy's connection to emotional issues with aromatherapists from Great Britain and Israel.
She is currently working as a co-author in Jack Canfield's forthcoming book "The Road To Success," which will feature her biographical chapter called "A Time For Everything A Time To Heal and a Time To Succeed." Later this year, she will be the subject of a "Hollywood Live" interview with Canfield, co-creator of the "Chicken Soup for the Soul" book phenomenon.
Fai's work in aromatherapy has indirectly led her to become a force in the high fashion world, as a VIP with high fashion company Gucci. Expanding her sphere of influence, Fai recently became a Council Member of the Global Entrepreneurship Initiative to help raise public awareness on aromatherapy and alternative healing ideas. In June 2016, she spoke at the United Nations Headquarters on her experience in partnering with a top fashion brand and how this adds value to her professional success.
"When I was young, growing up in China," she says, "I didn't think positively about anything. Coming to America opened my eyes to a more positive mindset and more aggressive approach to going after your goals. My perspective changed significantly and I knew I had the chance to get ahead and pursue my dreams."
Learn more at https://deliaroma.com/about/
Media Contact:
Matt Collins
[email protected]
800-980-1626
SOURCE Deli Aroma
Related Links
https://deliaroma.com
Additionally, Choice Hotels is taking strategic measures to help hotel developers determine the best places to build new prototype Comfort brand properties as well as open up the optimal markets for these projects. This is based on extensive research and analysis of consumer insights and business data. The strategic approach and strong performance fueling the brand have not gone unnoticed by the development community. Over the last two years Choice Hotels has executed more than double the number of new construction Comfort brand franchise agreements executed in the two year period prior.
"The appeal of the Comfort brand transcends style trends and market types. In a world where other brands are pursuing complex, edgy and loud designs, we want Comfort to be accessible to everyone developers and travelers," said David Pepper, chief development officer for Choice Hotels. "The ongoing multi-year Comfort brand transformation continues to see solid gains across key performance metrics and that momentum is heightening developer interest and new construction agreements. As a result, we are continuing to drive consistency and quality across the brand, ensuring guest satisfaction as well as brand loyalty."
Owned by the SLB Hotel Group, the Comfort Inn Maingate is located in Kissimmee, Florida, mere minutes from the famed theme parks and attractions of Orlando. Just five years old, the property has already received an upgrade to its five floors and 197 guest rooms, which feature a contemporary yet classic design.
The Comfort Inn Cleveland is located in a prime location in downtown Cleveland's theater district located minutes from the Cleveland Clinic and such top local attractions as the Playhouse Square, the Jack Cleveland Casino, and the Quicken Loans Arena & FirstEnergy Stadium.
These latest renovations and guest enhancements are a result of Choice's ongoing, multi-faceted initiative to improve properties and refresh the Comfort system through significant investments as well as franchisee incentives that have led to higher than ever guest satisfaction scores, heightened developer interest and strong performance. In fact, the brand has now experienced 24 consecutive months of RevPAR index gains. Further, collectively Choice Hotels and Comfort brand franchisees have already committed more than one quarter-billion dollars toward the brand's transformation. And the work continues.
The Comfort brand has been undergoing an exciting and transformative time as it continues to redefine itself across the board with improved guest programs that follow the new brand promise to keep guest wellness top of mind. The new tagline Rested. Set. Go assures that whether traveling for business or leisure, guests are promised a restful stay to feel refreshed and ready to take on the day. Enhancements have been made to the guest bath experience, including a new line of bath and hair products called RAIO developed exclusively for the brand as well as more healthy free breakfast options such as wholesome cereals and Greek yogurt. To further support the brand promise of supporting guest wellness, as of January 2017, all Comfort properties will be 100-percent smoke-free, making Comfort the largest hotel brand in the country to provide a smoke-free environment, reinforcing the brand's commitment to wellness and helping travelers.
"Comfort has taken a series of bold steps to enhance the guest experience while anticipating the needs of today's business and leisure travelers," said Anne Smith, vice president of brand strategy for Choice Hotels. "From a service perspective, we are empowering franchisees to foster a great sense of pride in brand and teamwork at their hotels. And, guests are already enjoying updates such as enhancements to breakfast, lemon-infused ice water stations in all lobbies, and our upgraded bath experience as well as our smoke-free promise. We are working hard to exceed the expectations of the upper midscale guest."
Comfort Inn: Rested. Set. Go.
When you travel, what do you need to be ready for the day ahead? At Comfort Inn hotels we think we've got a pretty good idea. Like friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and amenities you can count on, for a start. Can't decide if you want a soft or firm pillow? Don't worryyour bed has both. Our premium bedding will leave you rested and refreshed in the morning, just in time to enjoy our signature free hot breakfast. Now, if you can't decide which waffle to try first, we suggest flipping a coinbecause both the original and flavored are delicious.
Comfort Suites : Rested. Set. Go.
Bigger really is better. And at Comfort Suites hotels, you'll find more of the space you need to spread out, relax or work25% more space than a traditional room, to be exact. Stretch out on the sofa, be productive at the desk or kick back in our premium bedding. We've got all the essentials you need to stay on your game while you're away and be your best. Because behind every great day is a great night.
About Choice Hotels
Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) is one of the world's largest lodging companies. With more than 6,400 hotels franchised in more than 40 countries and territories, Choice Hotels International represents more than 500,000 rooms around the globe. As of September 30, 2016, 745 hotels were in our development pipeline. Our company's Ascend Hotel Collection, Cambria hotels & suites, Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Sleep Inn, Quality, Clarion, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn, and Vacation Rentals by Choice Hotels brands provide a spectrum of lodging choices to meet guests' needs. With more than 28 million members and counting, our Choice Privileges rewards program enhances every trip a guest takes, with benefits ranging from instant, every day rewards to exceptional experiences, starting right when they join. All hotels and vacation rentals are independently owned and operated. Visit us at www.choicehotels.com for more information.
2016 Choice Hotels International, Inc. All rights reserved.
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SOURCE Choice Hotels International, Inc.
Related Links
http://www.choicehotels.com
LOS ANGELES, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Los Angeles Police Protective League (LAPPL) will request that City Controller Ron Galperin conduct a comprehensive audit to determine the cause of the dangerously low staffing levels that existed last week during the post-election protests and provide recommendations to ensure the safety of residents and officers.
The LAPPL will also demand an apology from Mayor Garcetti for his recent remarks encouraging protesters to break the law. His public statement that, "we have to make sure we don't break too many laws doing it" promotes an environment that places the public and officers at risk.
During last week's protests there were several occasions where LAPD officers were overwhelmed by the sheer number of protestors. In one instance, three LAPD motor officers attempted to hold back hundreds of protestors who had flooded Highway 101 and surrounded the officers. In another instance, an LAPD officer was physically beaten, and his gun stolen, by a protestor.
What: Press conference to release formal request to City Controller Ron Galperin to audit LAPD staffing during protests.
Who: Craig Lally, President, LAPPL
When: TODAY, Monday, November 14, 2016
11:30 AM to 12:00 PM
League representatives will be available for phone interviews prior to the press conference to meet radio news deadlines. To schedule a radio interview between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, please contact Tom Saggau at (408) 209-6813.
Where: Los Angeles Police Protective League
1308 West Eighth Street, 1st Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90017
(Parking behind LAPPL office with access from Witmer Street)
About the LAPPL: Formed in 1923, the Los Angeles Police Protective League (LAPPL) represents the more than 9,900 dedicated and professional sworn members of the Los Angeles Police Department. The LAPPL serves to advance the interests of LAPD officers through legislative and legal advocacy, political action and education. The LAPPL can be found on the Web at www.LAPD.com.
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SOURCE Los Angeles Police Protective League
Related Links
http://www.lapd.com
"Peter Janney's unsparing analysis moves us closer to a reckoning." Oliver Stone
Now it its third edition, Mary's Mosaic: The CIA Conspiracy to Murder John F. Kennedy (published by Skyhorse Publishing), Mary Pinchot Meyer, and Their Vision for World Peace provides compelling details and evidence about the murders of both JFK and his mistress Mary Pinchot Meyer, who the author believes was murdered by the CIA in order to cover up what she had discovered about the assassination of JFK.
According to Janney, Mary Meyer was well known to have been JFK's lover, as well as one of his most trusted allies, as he turned away from the Cold War towards world peace in 1963. Following his assassinationand just three weeks after the release of the Warren Commission Report, which Meyer believed was a cover-upshe was gunned down on October 12, 1964 on the Chesapeake & Ohio towpath outside of Georgetown. Meyer was the ex-wife of CIA officer Cord Meyer.
Mary's Mosaic publisher Skyhorse has published more books about the JFK assassination than any other company.
Peter Janney grew up in Washington, D.C. during the Cold War era of the 1950s and 60s. His father, Wistar Janney, was a senior career CIA official. The Janney family was intimately involved with many of Washington's social and political elite that included Mary and Cord Meyer, as well as other high-ranking CIA officials such as Richard Helms, James Angleton, William Colby, and others.
A 1970 graduate of Princeton, Janney earned a doctorate in psychology at Boston University. He has been a practicing psychologist and consultant for over 35 years. Mary's Mosaic is his first book.
SKYHORSE PUBLISHING
Skyhorse Publishing, one of the fastest-growing independent book publishers in the United States, was launched in September 2006 by Tony Lyons, former president and publisher of the Lyons Press. It has had more than forty titles on the New York Times bestseller list over the course of its ten-year history.
With a backlist of more than six thousand titles, Skyhorse publishes a maverick list that includes fiction, nonfiction, history, politics, rural living, cooking, humor, and children's books. Lyons is dedicated to publishing books that make people's lives better, whether that means teaching them a hobby, bringing them a unique and important story, or encouraging them to fight against injustices, conspiracies, or abuses of power.
CONTACT: [email protected]; [email protected]
(212) 643-6816 x 286
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SOURCE Skyhorse Publishing
Related Links
http://skyhorsepublishing.com
A thematic continuation of her previously released EP, Time , which chronicles the slow demise of a love relationship, Ella Mai says the new project is all about "newfound love, new emotions and new experiences." She offers, "It's about finding someone new and knowing how to appreciate what he's giving you in comparison to what you were dealing with."
The stellar five-song collection kicks off with "Down," where Ella Mai elegantly flips the script on the 1994 Brandy classic. "Who Knew" has the 22-year-old pondering, "how did we fall so deep so fast" while "Lay Up" proposes an island getaway with her new man. The single, "10,000 Hours," she says, is about putting in the time it takes to master love.
"In the book Outliers, Malcolm Gladwell says you need to do something for 10,000 hours in order to have it down pat," Ella Mai reasons. "My song applies that same theory to love."
CHANGE will be available this Friday on all digital platforms. Check out the video for "10,000 Hours" HERE.
Track Listing
"Down" "Who Knew" "10,000 Hours" "Lay Up" "Found"
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SOURCE Interscope Records
SEOUL, South Korea, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- DNA Link, Inc. and Amplicon Express announced that they established an agreement today for a strategic partnership for the delivery of the best quality genomics solutions. This strategic partnership will further strengthen the cooperative relationship between two companies, which have developed over the past several years. DNA Link and Amplicon Express have agreed to cooperate in areas including nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, and PacBio sequencing.
Under the terms Amplicon Express will extract HMW DNA samples of NGS-quality from crude materials such as bacteria, plants, animals and humans. These samples will be then forwarded to DNA Link to be made into a long-inserted library ideal for PacBio sequencing for genome or transcriptome analysis by the fleet of PacBio sequencers including Sequel and RSII units at DNA Link.
Jongeun Lee, CEO and the founder of DNA Link said, "Amplicon Express is an expert in nucleic acid extraction and library preparation with a long proven track of success, and DNA Link is one of the best sequencing facility that has the most experience with PacBio sequencers. This partnership will bring a tremendous synergy, and the researchers will enjoy the best quality of sequence data using the third-generation sequencers."
Robert Bogden, President and founder of Amplicon Express remarked, "DNA Link is one of the few PacBio service providers that can fully realize the added value of having very long starting DNA fragments. PacBio data from DNA Link maximizes the long reads from our HMW DNA preps in 20Kb or 30Kb libraries."
About DNA Link, Inc.
DNA Link, Inc. is a genomics company who is a certified service provider for Pacific Bioscience, Illumina, Ion Torrent and Affymetrix. As one of the first companies that adopted Pacific Bioscience RS II system, DNA Link has become one of the world's leading expert in NGS and Bioinformatics, capable of providing an integrated genome analysis service using various platforms. Incorporated in 2000, DNA Link has accumulated profound experiences in various types of projects for sequencing and analysis of diverse organisms such as bacteria, fungi, plants, animals, and human. Headquartered in Seoul, Republic of Korea, it has a branch office and lab in San Diego, US.
About Amplicon Express
Amplicon Express Inc since 1996 has made 2,500+ custom BAC libraries, picked 55+ million BAC clones, and made thousands of quality HMW gDNA preps from practically every organism imaginable. The Amplicon Express distribution network includes: Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Mainland China, India, and offices in the EU. Amplicon is privately held, based in Washington State.
DNA Link,Inc.
Contact Person: Erin Kim
Office: +82-2-3153-1966
Email: [email protected]
Amplicon Express Inc.
Contact Person: Jon Wittendorp
Office: +31-26-7519538
Email: [email protected]
SOURCE DNA Link, Inc.
DUBLIN, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- DocuSign announced today the opening of its Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence in Dublin as part of its ongoing commitment to Europe and protecting its customers' data and privacy. The Centre will be committed to conducting research into the latest cyberattacks and trends, while developing tools for the advanced detection of such threats.
The project is supported by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise & Innovation through IDA Ireland.
A critical focus for the Centre within the next three years will be undertaking research and development into security orchestration and automation, which will directly inform advancements and innovation for DocuSign's security tools. As a result, the company's customers and employees will benefit from DocuSign's ability to respond even faster to rapidly evolving threats.
Welcoming the new investment by DocuSign, the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Mary Mitchell O'Connor TD said, "This new Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence will be a valued addition to Ireland's existing strengths in the ICT sector. We are very keen to attract a wider range of specialist IT companies, especially in Cybersecurity, as we are all very conscious of the crucial importance of being able to deal with Cybersecurity threats. It is great news that a company of the stature of DocuSign has decided to open this new facility here. We have the IT skills available to enable the company to grow and to embed their operations in Ireland. Their arrival is a great vote of confidence in what Ireland has to offer and I wish the team the very best for their future in Ireland."
"Our customers are committed to undertaking digital transformations which are underpinned by a high level of security and trust," commented Eoin Hinchy, director of Information Security at DocuSign. "This trust can only be built on a weight of cybersecurity intelligence and a culture of constant innovation that ensures their data is safeguarded. With the proliferation of cyberattacks continuing to grow every day, it is essential to stay ahead of these challenges and mitigate any risk. This is exactly what the research and development and the customised security tools from the Centre of Excellence will help us do."
Tapping further into the Irish talent pool as well as an array of security experts including analysts, developers and researchers from large institutions within both the public and private sectors, DocuSign's Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence will be pivotal to keeping DocuSign at the cutting edge of innovation in the cybersecurity field. Beyond further strengthening DocuSign's security offering, the initiative will also strengthen protection for the broader community as a result of bringing together the top minds in cybersecurity to develop tools and share intelligence.
Welcoming today's announcement Martin Shanahan CEO IDA Ireland said, "DocuSign's Cyber Security Centre of Excellence marks another important contribution to Ireland and to the continuous improvement of cyber security practices around the world. Ireland is becoming a leading location for companies, like DocuSign, dedicated to fighting cybercrime and other "next generation" threats. I wish Eoin and his team the continued support of IDA Ireland as it grows over the coming years."
The Centre of Excellence will play a significant role in maintaining and building upon the trust that more than 250,000 companies and more than 100 million users across 188 countries who put their trust in the DocuSign Global Trust Network to complete nearly one million transactions per day.
For more information on DocuSign, visit https://www.docusign.co.uk/
Contact:
Michael Creane/Mitch Lowes/Sara Chandran
[email protected]
About DocuSign, Inc.
DocuSign is changing how business gets done by empowering anyone to send, sign and manage agreements anytime, anywhere, on any device with trust and confidence. DocuSign and Go to keep life and business moving forward. For more information, visit www.docusign.com, call +1-877-720-2040, or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.
Copyright 2003-2016. DocuSign, Inc. is the owner of DOCUSIGN and all of its other marks (www.docusign.com/IP). All other marks appearing herein are the property of their respective owners.
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SOURCE DocuSign, Inc.
Related Links
http://www.docusign.com
Dole Packaged Food's 2017 float, "Spirit of Hawaii," celebrates its rich history and beginnings in the Hawaiian Islands dating back to 1899 when James Dole first traveled to the islands. The float includes a 10-foot tall sculpture of King Kamehameha, the largest waterfall in Rose Parade history consisting of more than 2,000 gallons of recycled water, an erupting volcano, and colorful animals including parrots, sea turtles and geckos decorated in tropical flowers. The floats lagoon will feature six dancers and at street level an additional 12 dancers will move to Pacific-Island dances.
"Hawaii is an important part of Dole's heritage," said Dave Spare, Vice President of Marketing, Dole Packaged Foods. "We want to share our rich history with Rose Parade viewers across the globe through this float and bring a bit of paradise to the community during the holiday season through not only this beautiful float design, but also our charitable efforts with Feeding America and FOOD Share."
Throughout its participation in the Rose Parade, Dole has showcased various countries and cultures where DOLE fruit is grown. Dole Packaged Foods is committed to providing convenient, healthy, non-GMO fruits and snacks to help people live long and healthy lives, as well as using sustainable, environmentally friendly, healthy and safe ways to grow its products to conserve Earth's most previous natural resources for generations to come. The 2017 float features fresh, non-GMO fruits and vegetables grown by DOLE, including bananas, pineapples and mangoes.
Along with the 'Spirit of Hawaii,' Dole is participating in the 'Spirit of Giving,' and will be collecting non-perishable food items as part of its participation at the annual Live on Green event in Pasadena Dec. 30 Jan. 1, as well as at Fiesta Floats and its headquarters in Westlake Village, Calif. to benefit Ventura County's regional food bank, FOOD Share, part of Feeding America, and its partners throughout the San Gabriel Valley. Dole has selected FOOD Share President and CEO Bonnie Atmore to ride on Dole's Rose Parade float in honor of her commitment to feeding, nourishing, and educating the hungry.
"We are honored to be recognized by Dole and to be included in the annual Tournament of Roses Parade," said FOOD Share President and CEO Bonnie Atmore. "FOOD Share and Dole share similar values of ensuring access to nutritious foods for the community and I couldn't be happier to emphasize our commitment to helping people live long and healthy lives."
To kick off the final road to the 2017 Rose Parade, Dole Packaged Foods is launching a sweepstakes, in which one lucky winner and a guest will get to travel to the Big Island of Hawaii. Launching today, and running through midnight on December 31, 2016, fans can enter for a chance to win the grand prize vacation, including hotel and airfare, as well as other weekly prizes. For more information about the sweepstakes, and to enter, visit Facebook.com/DoleSunshine or DoleSunshine.com/paradise.
About Dole Packaged Foods
Dole Packaged Foods LLC is a world leader in growing, sourcing, distributing and marketing fruit and healthy snacks. Dole sells a full-line of packaged ambient fruit, frozen fruit, dried fruit, and juices. The company focuses on four pillars of sustainability in all its operations: water management, carbon footprint, soil conservation and packaging. For more information please visit www.dolesunshine.com or www.doleintlcsr.com.
About FOOD Share
More than 35 years ago, eight citizens performed a good deed by distributing food to those who were in need underneath a Ventura bridge. The early philanthropic movement quickly formed into what is now Ventura County's regional food bank, FOOD Share, which has grown from serving a few hundred hungry people per month to 74,500 people. Today, staff and volunteers distribute more than 12 million pounds of food, or 10 million meals annually from its distribution site; more than 180 partner agencies, which include neighborhood and church food distributions and soup kitchens; as well as hunger assistance programs. FOOD Share's programs provide healthy nutrition and education to children, families and seniors. The regional food bank's Feed the Line, Shorten the Line efforts draw together community stakeholders and other non-profit and community service organizations to empower the food insecure through "stability to thrive" programs such as the FOOD Share and Friends Mobile Pantry which provides county-wide access to resources and programs that facilitate self-sustainability. FOOD Share is working to provide compelling data and create greater public awareness around the number of food insecure residents in Ventura County and the impact the prevalence of hunger has on the entire community. The regional food bank is always seeking like-minded stakeholders, donors, influencers, and supporters who are interested in learning more about food insecurity and investing in the tools and strategies FOOD Share is developing to solve the shared issue of food insecurity across the entire county. A 501(c)3 non-profit organization, FOOD Share is a member of the Feeding America network, the nation's largest hunger-relief organization.
In 2016, FOOD Share is rallying the community behind a viral initiative encouraging the public, local businesses, major corporations and community leaders and stakeholders to help combat hunger through an outreach campaign called Share16. The Share16 Challenge asks the community to share ways in which they support FOOD Share by documenting their experiences and efforts on social media with the #Share16 hashtag.
For more information about FOOD Share, visit www.foodshare.com. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
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SOURCE Dole Packaged Foods
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WACO, Texas, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The Dwyer Group, Inc., one of the world's largest parent companies of trade service brands, has completed the add-on acquisition of Window Genie, a nationally ranked home service franchise. The deal marks the eighth acquisition for Dwyer Group in the last 27 months and grows the organization to $1.4 billion in system-wide sales. Dwyer Group will now have 14 franchise brands with more than 2,600 franchisees across service brands and a record 600+ employees throughout North America, U.K. and Germany.
"We are very excited to welcome Window Genie to our family of quality service organizations," said Mike Bidwell, president and CEO of Dwyer Group. "This addition delivers both a compelling business opportunity for future franchise prospects as well as a complementary trade that fits our overall portfolio of service brands. Most importantly, we are able to offer a comprehensive residential and commercial service line-up to our customers."
Window Genie offers residential and light commercial window cleaning, window tinting, pressure washing and more. What began as a small window cleaning company in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1994 founded by current CEO, Rik Nonelle, has since grown exponentially with more than 100 franchise units operating in 29 states. Nonelle will assume the role of brand president for Window Genie within the Dwyer Group organization and has ambitious goals to grow the network.
"Joining the Dwyer Group will allow our franchisees to take part in the organization's collective buying power, provide us with deeper support resources and enable us to rapidly expand our footprint," said Nonelle. "We are looking forward to continued success and serving many more customers."
For more information about Dwyer Group's service brands visit www.dwyergroup.com.
About Dwyer Group:
Dwyer Group, based in Waco, Texas, is a holding company of 14 franchise businesses, each selling and supporting a different franchise under the following service marks: Aire Serv, Glass Doctor, The Grounds Guys, Five Star Painting, Molly Maid, Mr. Appliance, Mr. Electric, Mr. Handyman, Mr. Rooter (Drain Doctor in the UK), ProTect Painters, Rainbow International, Locatec, and Window Genie. Collectively, these independent franchise concepts offer customers worldwide a broad base of residential and commercial services. In addition, Dwyer Group operates glass shops in New England under the Portland Glass and Cumberland County Glass brand names. Dwyer Group is a portfolio company of The Riverside Company, a global private equity firm. The firm's international portfolio includes more than 75 companies. More information on Dwyer Group, or its franchise concepts, is available at www.dwyergroup.com.
Dwyer Group is also on Twitter at @DwyerGroup.
SOURCE Dwyer Group, Inc.
Related Links
http://www.dwyergroup.com
BOSTON, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Ellie Harrison has been appointed head of Human Resources for John Hancock, the U.S. Division of Manulife. In this role, she will work with John Hancock's business leaders to develop, retain and attract a customer centric workforce to drive the company's strategy. Harrison will be based in Boston and serve on John Hancock's senior leadership team as well as Manulife's Global Human Resources Leadership Team and its Global Leadership Team.
"We are pleased to have a leader like Ellie join our company," said Craig Bromley, president, John Hancock. "With experience across a variety of industries including financial services, healthcare and technology, she brings a keen focus in aligning talent to business strategy and designing organizational structures to achieve business objectives."
Harrison has extensive experience leading Human Resources teams and developing Human Resources strategies for financial services organizations. While at Citigroup she was the head of Human Resources for multiple lines of business for the Global Consumer Bank including Wealth Management and Global Commercial Banking. Additionally during her 12 years with Fidelity Investments, she was the head of Human Resources for the Fixed Income Division and later for the retail brokerage division of Personal and Workplace Investing. She was also the chief human resources officer for Blue Cross & Blue Shield Rhode Island, and managed the Human Resources function at Chubb Life America.
Most recently Harrison was the chief human resources officer at Immunogen, a biotechnology company, where she led the Human Resources transformation to build out the core Human Resources functions including talent acquisition, internal communications, talent/succession planning, compensation and benefits.
Harrison is a graduate of the University of Minnesota and serves on the boards of the United Way of Merrimack County and the Red Cross of New Hampshire.
About John Hancock Financial and Manulife
John Hancock Financial is a division of Manulife, a leading Canada-based financial services group with principal operations in Asia, Canada and the United States. Operating as Manulife in Canada and Asia, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States, the group of companies offers clients a diverse range of financial protection products and wealth management services through its extensive network of employees, agents and distribution partners. Assets under management and administration by Manulife and its subsidiaries were $966 billion (US $736 billion) as at September 30, 2016. Manulife Financial Corporation trades as 'MFC' on the TSX, NYSE and PSE, and under '945' on the SEHK. Manulife can be found on the Internet at manulife.com.
The John Hancock unit, through its insurance companies, comprises one of the largest life insurers in the United States. John Hancock offers and administers a broad range of financial products, including life insurance, annuities, investments, 401(k) plans, long-term care insurance, college savings, and other forms of business insurance. Additional information about John Hancock may be found at johnhancock.com.
SOURCE John Hancock Financial
Related Links
http://ww.johnhancock.com
SAN FRANCISCO and SACRAMENTO, Calif., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a unique and innovative national retail insurance brokerage and employee benefits consulting firm, announced today that Rick Haycock has joined the firm as a property & casualty insurance broker/producer.
Haycock will be responsible for new business development and the design and management of insurance and risk management programs for clients in the Sacramento area and across the western region. Haycock will serve a wide range of businesses and industries, including contractors, real estate developers, commercial and residential income property owners as well as property managers.
Haycock will be based in EPIC's Sacramento, California office and report to Tom McCready, regional director, Property & Casualty operations.
Haycock joins EPIC from Mackie Insurance Brokerage in El Dorado Hills, California, where he spent over seven years as a commercial insurance broker and risk management consultant. He was previously vice president and commercial account manager for The First American Corporation, a highly-regarded Fortune 500 company and the nation's largest provider of business information.
"Rick is a disciplined, highly collaborative professional, with a strong focus on client service excellence and the delivery of value," said EPIC's Tom McCready. "He is well respected in our business, and his beliefs and ability are strongly aligned with EPIC's core values surrounding client advocacy, community, and putting people first. We are excited to have Rick join our growing operations here in Sacramento and across the West."
Haycock, a Sacramento native, attended Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Studies.
Rick Haycock can be reached at:
EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants
[email protected]
(916)-576-1562
About EPIC:
EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.
EPIC now has more than 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients.
With more than $250 million in revenues, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the United States. Backed by the Carlyle Group, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country. For additional information, please visit www.epicbrokers.com.
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This release was issued through Send2Press, a unit of Neotrope. For more information, visit Send2Press Newswire at https://www.Send2Press.com
SOURCE EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants
Related Links
http://www.epicbrokers.com
NEW YORK, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The EY Vantage program, which sends top-performing EY professionals abroad to support high-impact entrepreneurs across Latin America at no fee, has concluded for 2016. Twenty-eight advisors completed more than 6,700 program hours, equivalent to more than $2.5 million in services, working with entrepreneurs in emerging economies and helping them identify and navigate key business challenges.
The initiative, now in its 12th year, has helped entrepreneurs to grow, create more jobs and make significant contributions to their respective industries, reinforcing EY's commitment to building a better working world and improving global economies. Since 2005, 147 advisors from EY Americas member firms have supported 145 entrepreneurs with more than 45,000 hours of service at a value of more than $15 million.
"Since its inception, EY Vantage has made a positive impact for the entrepreneurs we have supported, as well as for the up-and-coming EY leaders who have taken part in the program," said Deborah K. Holmes, EY Americas Director of Corporate Responsibility. "Our hope is that EY Vantage can serve as a catalyst for sustainable growth in countries with emerging economies where cultivating entrepreneurship can have a lasting effect on society. At the same time, we are engaging our top professionals through this transformative international experience which aims to develop leadership skills and a global mindset."
The program works in collaboration with Endeavor Global, a non-profit organization that aims to catalyze long-term economic growth by selecting, mentoring and accelerating high-impact entrepreneurs across the globe.
During the course of their six-week placements, each EY professional worked with an entrepreneur on a project tailored to address the needs of the organization while growing professional and leadership skills for the advisor. Projects included market expansions, internal auditing, work flow and operations and the development of business plans. Advisors were also able to gain firsthand knowledge of the emerging markets and industries in which they volunteered.
"I feel lucky to be an EY Vantage Advisor and to work for a purpose-led organization that offers skills-based, international volunteerism programs. Traveling to a foreign country alone to work with a high-impact entrepreneur challenged me both personally and professionally. The experience was difficult at times, and ultimately incredibly rewarding. I returned with greater confidence in my skills and leadership abilities, and have already noticed my enhanced global mindset coming into play with colleagues and clients who I encounter regularly working for a large global organization," said Rose Martin, an Advisory Manager of Ernst & Young LLP based in New York. She advised don't worry, a company that provides healthy snacks while minimizing calorie intake, by conducting a gap assessment and developing a plan to improve its business operating model.
The EY Vantage program in the Americas expanded at the start of 2016 to include new cities in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru and Uruguay. Globally, the program has supported entrepreneurs in more than 30 countries.
To learn more about the EY Vantage program, please click here.
About Endeavor
Hailed by The New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman as "the best anti-poverty program of all," Endeavor is leading the global movement to catalyze long-term economic growth by selecting, mentoring, and accelerating the best high-impact entrepreneurs around the world. To date, Endeavor has screened more than 30,000 entrepreneurs and selected 844 individuals leading 538 high-impact companies.
With support from Endeavor's worldwide mentor network, these high-impact entrepreneurs:
Have created over 600,000 jobs
Generated over US$8 billion in revenues in 2015
in revenues in 2015 Inspire future generations to innovate and take risks
Headquartered in New York City, Endeavor currently operates in 25 countries throughout Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Southeast Asia and Japan. Endeavor also has three US affiliates based in the cities of Detroit (MI), Louisville (KY) and Miami (FL). As the high-impact movement expands globally, Endeavor will continue to prove that anyone with a big idea can succeed, from Silicon Valley to Latin America, the Middle East, and beyond.
About EY
EY is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. The insights and quality services we deliver help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and in economies the world over. We develop outstanding leaders who team to deliver on our promises to all of our stakeholders. In so doing, we play a critical role in building a better working world for our people, for our clients and for our communities.
EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.
This news release has been issued by Ernst & Young LLP, a member firm of EY serving clients in the US.
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SOURCE EY
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PARSIPPANY, N.J., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Ferring Pharmaceuticals Inc. will continue its leadership role as one of four national sponsors for the more than 100 Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Run events taking place in cities across the country. Through this sponsorship, Ferring Pharmaceuticals will support the Arthritis Foundation's search for a cure to the number one cause of disability in the United States, while also providing life-changing tools, resources, and science and advocacy initiatives to help arthritis sufferers in their daily lives.
More than 50 million Americans are diagnosed with arthritis, 27 million of whom suffer from osteoarthritis. "Our mission is to help patients live better lives. Through our national sponsorship of Jingle Bell Run, we can support not only patients with osteoarthritis, but all who struggle with arthritis and their families," says Joseph Rizzo, Marketing Manager, Orthopaedics.
Beyond sponsorship of the annual fundraising event, Ferring has a longstanding partnership with the Arthritis Foundation to take action and address vital issues in the prevention, control and cure of arthritis. Ferring employees from around the country are also joining the initiative by taking part in local events to help raise funds to conquer arthritis. Last year's winner of the 5K in Virginia Beach, Virginia was a Ferring employee.
"The work we do day in and day out in the support of healthcare professionals and their patients highlights the importance of investing in the future of arthritis treatment," said David Powley, Senior Director, Ferring Pharmaceuticals Inc. "We're proud to participate in this event both on the corporate level and through the many employees who make it a priority to demonstrate their personal support."
Find your local event by visiting www.arthritis.org/jbr. To learn more about the fight to conquer arthritis, visit www.arthritis.org.
About Ferring Pharmaceuticals
Ferring Pharmaceuticals Inc. is a subsidiary of Ferring Pharmaceuticals, a privately owned, international pharmaceutical company. Ferring Pharmaceuticals specializes in the research, development and commercialization of compounds in general and pediatric endocrinology, gastroenterology, infertility, obstetrics/gynecology, orthopaedics, and urology. For more information, call 1-888-FERRING (1-888-337-7464) or visit www.FerringUSA.com.
About the Arthritis Foundation
The Arthritis Foundation is the Champion of Yes. Leading the fight for the arthritis community, the Foundation helps conquer everyday battles through life-changing information and resources, access to optimal care, advancements in science and community connections. The Arthritis Foundation's goal is to chart a winning course, guiding families in developing personalized plans for living a full life and making each day another stride towards a cure. The Foundation also publishes Arthritis Today, the award-winning magazine that reaches 4 million readers.
Media Contact
Yvonne Lachmann
410-627-9749
[email protected]
2016 Ferring B.V.
11/14
[EU/2403/2016/US]
SOURCE Ferring Pharmaceuticals Inc.
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http://www.FerringUSA.com
LIVONIA, Mich., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- More than 137,000 public votes were cast nationwide in October in celebration of the country's favorite credit unions, and the local charities they support, as part of the second annual Love My Credit Union Campaign. The Love My Credit Union Campaign is a video contest hosted by CU Solutions Group and the Credit Union National Association.
Four charities will each be awarded a $5,000 prize on behalf of the following October winners who had the top votes in each asset-size category:
The October winners and public voting for each month's winners through December 16 can be viewed and tracked at the campaign website: www.VoteLoveMyCU.org
Monthly credit union winners are chosen by popular vote and are awarded with charitable donations made on their behalf to their charity of choice*. Additionally, members of the voting public are eligible to win cash prizes and charitable donations made in their name to their charity of choice.
"Credit unions are more than just financial institutions we have a long history of charitable community involvement," said CU Solutions Group CEO Dave Adams. "I'm excited to spread that message, and I'm even more excited to see how well the credit union community has responded."
One of the Alabama Credit Union Foundation's charitable efforts is with the Secret Meals for Hungry Children program, which provides food packs to children identified as going without food on weekends. The program feeds more than 2,300 children across seven Alabama counties.
"Childhood hunger is an epidemic that can be stopped with the help of local feeding programs," said Kelley Jane Porter, marketing manager for Alabama Credit Union and its charitable foundation. "Through the donation that the Alabama Credit Union Foundation has received from the Love My Credit Union Campaign, 35 children will receive a food pack each weekend from the Secret Meals For Hungry Children program."
"ELGA Credit Union is thrilled to have won the Love My Credit Union Campaign monthly prize for our community, Genesee County," said ELGA Chief Executive Officer Karen Church. "We help our community raise the money for families with children who literally cannot afford clean diapers. And we're grateful to our community for diligently voting for this important cause."
As part of the 2016 Love My Credit Union Campaign, credit unions and credit union industry service organizations began submitting brief videos highlighting their favorite charities earlier this summer. As of October 31, 83 videos had been submitted to the campaign with more being uploaded each day to the public's voting website: www.VoteLoveMyCU.org
About the Love My Credit Union Campaign:
The Love My Credit Union Campaign is a joint venture between CU Solutions Group and its member rewards program, Love My Credit Union Rewards, in conjunction with the Credit Union National Association. In 2016, the campaign will award up to $122,500 to credit unions for the charities they have selected.
For consumers voting, go to VoteLoveMyCU.org and use #LoveMyCreditUnion on social media.
About CU Solutions Group:
CU Solutions Group is a credit union service organization that serves the credit union industry by offering solutions in technology, marketing and performance solutions. The company's dedication to the credit union mission is reflected through service excellence to nearly 4,000 credit union clients across the country. CU Solutions Group is the home of the well-known credit union industry program Love My Credit Union Rewards. Learn more at CUSolutionsGroup.com.
*Charity must be a 501(c)(3)
SOURCE CU Solutions Group
Related Links
http://CUSolutionsGroup.com
CHESTERFIELD, United Kingdom, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Mallinckrodt plc (NYSE: MNK), a leading global specialty biopharmaceutical company, today confirmed enrollment of the first patients in the company's Phase 4 clinical study assessing the efficacy of H.P. Acthar Gel (repository corticotropin injection) in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) patients with persistently active disease. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial builds on data from a pilot study of H.P. Acthar Gel in patients with active SLE, recently published online in the journal Lupus Science & Medicine in a manuscript titled "Efficacy and tolerability of repository corticotropin injection in patients with persistently active SLE: results of a phase 4, randomized, controlled pilot study."
H.P. Acthar Gel is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use during an exacerbation or as a maintenance therapy in select patients with SLE.1
"The data generated in our pilot clinical study support the use of Acthar to treat lupus patients for which it is already indicated - who have clinically significant disease activity despite receiving standard of care therapies," said Steven Romano, M.D., Chief Scientific Officer and Executive Vice President at Mallinckrodt. "We are pleased to enroll the first patient in this follow-on trial, which will generate additional data to better understand how clinicians may utilize Acthar in the management of these more difficult to manage patients with SLE."
About the Trial
The Phase 4 trial is titled, "A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to assess the efficacy and safety of H.P. Acthar Gel in subjects with persistently active SLE despite moderate dose corticosteroids." The primary endpoint of the study is to measure reduction in disease activity as reflected by the SLE Responder Index (SRI) at week 16. The SRI is a composite endpoint that includes three different measures of disease activity to reflect response of SLE to therapy. The target patient enrollment is 160. As is typical with sizeable clinical trials in segments of a disease population, the study is expected to take several years.
Find more information about the trial here on the ClinicalTrials.gov website.
About Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
SLE is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system produces antibodies to cells within the body leading to widespread inflammation and tissue damage.2 It is the most common form of lupus, a condition that impacts an estimated 1.5 million Americans.3 Ninety percent of those diagnosed with lupus are women, often between the ages of 15-44.3 Lupus is characterized by periods of illness "flares" and remissions and the disease can affect the joints, skin, brain, lungs, kidneys, and blood vessels. Symptoms may include fatigue, pain or swelling in joints, skin rashes, and fevers.2
About H.P. Acthar Gel (repository corticotropin injection)
H.P. Acthar Gel (repository corticotropin injection), is an injectable drug approved by the FDA for the treatment of 19 indications. Of these, today the majority of Acthar use is in these indications:
Orphan monotherapy for treatment of infantile spasms (IS) in infants and children under 2 years of age.
Inducing a diuresis or a remission of proteinuria in nephrotic syndrome without uremia of the idiopathic type or that due to lupus erythematosus.
Treatment of acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis in adults.
Use during an exacerbation or as maintenance therapy in selected cases of SLE.
Use during an exacerbation or as maintenance therapy in selected cases of systemic dermatomyositis (polymyositis).
Use as adjunct therapy for short-term administration in select cases of rheumatoid arthritis.
Treatment of symptomatic sarcoidosis.
For more information about Acthar, please visit www.acthar.com. Full Prescribing Information may be accessed here.
Important Safety Information
Acthar should never be administered intravenously.
Administration of live or live attenuated vaccines is contraindicated in patients receiving immunosuppressive doses of Acthar.
Acthar is contraindicated where congenital infections are suspected in infants.
Acthar is contraindicated in patients with scleroderma, osteoporosis, systemic fungal infections, ocular herpes simplex, recent surgery, history of or the presence of a peptic ulcer, congestive heart failure, uncontrolled hypertension, primary adrenocortical insufficiency, adrenocortical hyperfunction or sensitivity to proteins of porcine origins.
The adverse effects of Acthar are related primarily to its steroidogenic effects.
Acthar may increase susceptibility to new infection or reactivation of latent infections.
Suppression of the hypothalamicpituitaryadrenal (HPA) axis may occur following prolonged therapy with the potential for adrenal insufficiency after withdrawal of the medication. Cushing's Syndrome may occur during therapy but generally resolves after therapy is stopped. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms.
Monitor patients for elevation of blood pressure, salt and water retention, and hypokalemia.
Acthar often acts by masking symptoms of other diseases/disorders. Monitor patients carefully during and following discontinuation.
Acthar can cause gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and gastric ulcer with an increased risk for perforation with certain GI disorders. Monitor for signs of bleeding.
Acthar may be associated with central nervous system effects ranging from euphoria, insomnia, irritability, mood swings, personality changes, depression, and psychosis. Existing conditions may be aggravated.
Patients with comorbid disease may have that disease worsened. Caution should be used in patients with diabetes and myasthenia gravis.
Prolonged use of Acthar may produce cataracts, glaucoma and secondary ocular infections.
Acthar is immunogenic and prolonged use may increase the risk of hypersensitivity reactions.
There is an enhanced effect in patients with hypothyroidism and those with cirrhosis of liver.
Long-term use may have negative effects on growth and physical development in children. Monitor pediatric patients.
Decrease in bone density may occur. Monitor during long-term therapy.
Pregnancy Class C: Acthar has been shown to have an embryocidal effect and should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Common adverse reactions include fluid retention, alteration in glucose tolerance, elevation in blood pressure, behavioral and mood changes, increased appetite and weight gain.
Specific adverse reactions reported in IS clinical trials in infants and children under 2 years of age included: infection, hypertension, irritability, Cushingoid symptoms, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, pyrexia, weight gain, increased appetite, decreased appetite, nasal congestion, acne, rash, and cardiac hypertrophy. Convulsions were also reported, but these may actually be occurring because some IS patients progress to other forms of seizures and IS sometimes masks other seizures, which become visible once the clinical spasms from IS resolve.
Please see full Prescribing Information here for additional Important Safety Information.
ABOUT MALLINCKRODT
Mallinckrodt is a global business that develops, manufactures, markets and distributes specialty pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical products and therapies, as well as nuclear imaging products. Areas of focus include autoimmune and rare diseases in specialty areas like neurology, rheumatology, nephrology, pulmonology and ophthalmology; immunotherapy and neonatal respiratory critical care therapies; analgesics and hemostasis products; and central nervous system drugs. The company's core strengths include the acquisition and management of highly regulated raw materials and specialized chemistry, formulation and manufacturing capabilities. The company's Specialty Brands segment includes branded medicines; its Specialty Generics segment includes specialty generic drugs, active pharmaceutical ingredients and external manufacturing; and the Nuclear Imaging segment includes nuclear imaging agents. To learn more about Mallinckrodt, visit www.mallinckrodt.com.
Mallinckrodt uses its website as a channel of distribution of important company information, such as press releases, investor presentations and other financial information. It also uses its website to expedite public access to time-critical information regarding the company in advance of or in lieu of distributing a press release or a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) disclosing the same information. Therefore, investors should look to the Investor Relations page of the website for important and time-critical information. Visitors to the website can also register to receive automatic e-mail and other notifications alerting them when new information is made available on the Investor Relations page of the website.
CONTACTS
Media
Rhonda Sciarra
Senior Communications Manager
908-238-6765
[email protected]
Meredith Fischer
Chief Public Affairs Officer
314-654-3318
[email protected]
Investor Relations
Coleman N. Lannum, CFA
Senior Vice President, Investor Strategy and IRO
314-654-6649
[email protected]
Daniel J. Speciale, CPA
Director, Investor Relations
314-654-3638
[email protected]
1 H.P. Acthar Gel (repository corticotropin injection) [prescribing information]. Mallinckrodt ARD, Inc.
2 Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus), The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/lupus.htm. Accessed October 19, 2016.
3 Lupus Foundation of America Press Kit, About Us. Available at: http://www.lupus.org/about/statistics-on-lupus. Accessed October 19, 2016.
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SOURCE Mallinckrodt plc
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(Beijing) Police in the Inner Mongolia autonomous region have detained 57 suspects on suspicion of operating illegal mines and other illicit development projects in protected nature reserves.
The arrests come after a recent investigation by the Ministry of Environmental Protection (MEP) found illicit development projects at 41 of the 89 nature reserves in the northern region, the ministry said.
Over 660 businesses, including dozens of mine operators, were damaging protected parks, the investigation found.
Some of the affected sites were managed by the central government, while others were overlooked by local governments.
Mining activities at two national parks, including the popular Daqingshan Safari Park, in the regional capital, Hohhot, and another regional wildlife habitat in the city of Ordos, continued until the first half of 2016, according to the MEP.
Local agencies in charge of park management had violated conservation rules by issuing mining licenses or failing to punish offenders, the MEP said.
Regional authorities had issued 25 mining licenses to those operating inside the Gancao Nature Reserve in Ordos after a dozen central government agencies jointly issued a curb on development projects in natural reserves in May 2015, the investigation found.
Local agencies overseeing land usage has given the green light to an open-pit mine located inside the Menggehan Mountain Nature Reserve, violating environmental protection rules, the ministry said.
Management at the Xilingol Grassland National Nature Reserve failed to move three businesses out of the site after the national rules came into effect, investigators found.
The regional government had ordered 360 businesses to close down and had warned 280 officials and reserve managers to crack down on illicit projects after the MEP investigation.
The ministry did not say how illegal mining and other projects had affected the protected reserves. But water samples taken from 90 waterways in the region showed water quality was deteriorating, the ministry said.
Contact reporter Li Rongde (rongdeli@caixin.com); editor Poornima Weerasekara (poornima@caixin.com)
The demonstration flight departed Seattle-Tacoma International Airport earlier this morning for Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C. The flight was fueled with a 20 percent blend of sustainable aviation biofuel, which is chemically indistinguishable from regular jet A fuel. The flight, the first commercial passenger flight of its kind, continues to advance viable alternatives to conventional fossil fuels for aviation.
"This latest milestone in Alaska's efforts to promote sustainable biofuels is especially exciting since it is uniquely sourced from the forest residuals in the Pacific Northwest," said Joe Sprague, Alaska Airlines' senior vice president of communications and external relations. "NARA's accomplishments and the investment of the U.S. Department of Agriculture provide another key in helping Alaska Airlines and the aviation industry reduce its carbon footprint and dependency on fossil fuels."
While the 1,080 gallons of biofuel used on the flight has a minimal impact to Alaska Airlines' overall greenhouse gas emissions, if the airline were able to replace 20 percent of its entire fuel supply at Sea-Tac Airport, it would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 142,000 metric tons of CO2. This is equivalent to taking approximately 30,000 passenger vehicles off the road for one year.
NARA is a five-year project that launched in 2011 and is comprised of 32 member organizations from industry, academia and government laboratories. Today's flight represents its efforts to develop alternative jet fuel derived from post-harvest forestry material that is often burned after timber harvest. The forest residual feedstock used to power Alaska Airlines Flight 4 was sourced from tribal lands and private forestry operations in the Pacific Northwest. In addition to producing 1,080 gallons of biofuel used for the flight, other key tasks of the project included evaluating the economic, environmental, and societal benefits and impacts associated with harvesting unused forest residuals for biofuel production.
The NARA initiative was made possible by a $39.6 million grant from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) to support research on biofuels and biochemicals, foster regional supply chain coalitions, empower rural economic development and educate the public on the benefits of bioenergy.
"Today is a tribute to all of our NARA partners, and especially to NIFA who supported our mission to facilitate the revolutionary development of biojet and bioproduct industries in the Pacific Northwest using forest residuals that would otherwise become waste products," said Ralph Cavalieri, NARA executive director. "We are proud of every one of the partners and stakeholders from forest managers to Gevo and Alaska Airlines - who have laid the foundations for a renewable fuel economy that will keep skies clear and healthy with the potential to bolster economically challenged timber-based rural communities in our region."
Gevo, Inc., a NARA partner, successfully adapted its patented technologies to convert cellulosic sugars derived from wood waste into renewable isobutanol, which was then further converted into Gevo's Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) fuel. Believed to be the world's first alternative jet fuel produced from wood, the fuel meets international ASTM standards, allowing it to be used safely for today's commercial flight.
"This first of its kind flight demonstrates Gevo's commitment and ability to convert a wide range of sugar feedstocks into drop-in renewable fuels. We are pleased that we had the opportunity to prove, through the NARA project, that cellulosic sugars from wood can be used to successfully make commercial jet fuel. We congratulate all of our fellow NARA partners and thank the USDA-NIFA, for its unwavering support in the pursuit of renewable jet fuel. I also thank Alaska Airlines, who continues to be a great partner," said Pat Gruber, Gevo's Chief Executive Officer.
Several elected officials joined the 163 passengers on the Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-800 jet bound for the nation's capital, including Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-1), Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-8), and Congressman Denny Heck (WA-10).
"I am proud to see the world's first biojet fuel made from forest residuals being flown on an Alaska Airlines airplane," said U.S. Senator Patty Murray. "The Pacific Northwest continues to be on the cutting edge of new technology that will make airplanes better, safer, and more efficient, and I'm thrilled that so many stakeholders came together and that Washington State University has led this important effort."
"Today's flight comes after years of investments to help the aviation biofuels industry take off," said U.S. Senator Cantwell. "By creating these sustainable biofuels, we will revitalize our rural agricultural communities, foster economic growth, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and cut our dependence on foreign oil while growing our competitiveness in global markets."
"Today's flight demonstrates that Washington state's innovation economy is once again at the forefront of collaborative, transformative research by using material that would otherwise be discarded to create a new biofuel," said U.S. Congresswoman Suzan DelBene. "Here in the Pacific Northwest, we know that the natural environment that surrounds us is what makes living here so special. We have a tremendous opportunity in our region to build a new green economy and find innovative solutions to address climate change for our health and future generations, as this project highlights."
Alaska Airlines flew two other flights in June using a blend of biofuel produced from non-edible, sustainable corn.
On the blog: Alaska Airlines flies first commercial flight with biofuel made from forest residuals.
Photos from today's news conference are available for download at blog.alaskaair.com. High definition b-roll is available at https://vimeo.com/191521434/b3b2623501.
Learn more about NARA Renewables at https://nararenewables.org/ and follow the flight using the hashtags #JetFuel and #CleanEnergy.
Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20161114/438952
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SOURCE Alaska Airlines
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DUNCAN, S.C., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas-born heritage brand, Fuddruckers, is unveiling their seventh South Carolina home for the "World's Greatest Hamburgers" today in Duncan with regional franchisee, The Butcher The Baker Management Company, Inc. Ideally situated at 1515 East Main Street/Highway 290 just off Interstate 85, the approximately 4,600-square-foot fast casual restaurant will be open daily from 10 am until 10 pm and feature Wi-Fi and an outdoor patio. Fuddruckers partners since 1985, when they debuted their first location in Spartanburg, SC, The Butcher The Baker Management Company, Inc. principals, Allen and Lee Ann Johnston, also operate Fuddruckers in Matthews, North Carolina and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
The Duncan restaurant's dynamic decor references Fuddruckers' classic, Americana origins and creates the perfect backdrop for a family gathering, business lunch or date night. Diners will enjoy a menu that not only features the World's Greatest Hamburgers, but includes Fudds Exotics Elk and Buffalo burgers, beer and wine, plus lunch specials throughout the week. Catering, the Fudd truck and delivery will also be available.
According to Peter Tropoli, Chief Operating Officer of Luby's, Inc., "We're thrilled to continue our longstanding relationship with the Johnstons, who are, not only dedicated to the culinary standards of this brand but, also incredibly committed to the communities where they do business."
Since 1980, Fuddruckers has been obsessed with making the world happier, one great hamburger at a time. Grilled-to-order burgers feature always fresh and never frozen, 100% USDA premium-cut beef with no fillers or additives. Delicious, sesame-topped buns are baked from scratch on-site throughout the day to achieve the perfect combination of crisp crust and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
And while burgers are the signature, the engaging menu offers variety for many tastes with an array of sandwiches, platters and salads. No matter what they choose, customers can customize their meal with a trip to the legendary Build Your Own produce bar, which features fantastic fixings like sun-ripened tomatoes, lettuce, sliced onions, dill pickles, pico de gallo and classic cheese sauce.
About Luby's, Inc.
Luby's, Inc. (NYSE: LUB) operates restaurants under the brands Luby's Cafeteria, Fuddruckers and Cheeseburger in Paradise and provides food service management through its Luby's Culinary Services division. The company-operated restaurants include 91 Luby's Cafeterias, 74 Fuddruckers restaurants, eight Cheeseburger in Paradise full service restaurants and bars and one Bob Luby's Seafood Grill. Its Luby's Cafeterias are located primarily in Texas. In addition to the company-operated Fuddruckers locations, Luby's is the franchisor for 112 Fuddruckers franchise locations across the United States (including Puerto Rico), Canada, Mexico, Panama, Italy, Colombia and the Dominican Republic. Luby's Culinary Services provides food service management to 23 sites consisting of healthcare, higher education and corporate dining locations.
SOURCE Fuddruckers
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ST. LOUIS, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC) announced today that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Health Net Federal Services, LLC (HNFS) was notified by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) that the protests challenging the Department of Defense's (DoD) award of contracts for the East and West T2017 regions are being denied. The GAO's decision sustains Health Net Federal Services' West Region award. We expect the start of health care delivery for this new contract to begin in the second half of 2017.
"Since 1988, Health Net Federal Services has been proud to partner with the Department of Defense, supplementing the care they provide to active duty and retired military personnel and their families," said Billy Maynard, President and CEO of Health Net Federal Services. He added, "We are honored and humbled to be awarded the TRICARE West Region Contract to serve this extraordinary population of beneficiaries, as well as supplement and extend the healthcare mission of the Defense Health Agency."
About Centene Corporation
Centene Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, is a diversified, multi-national healthcare enterprise that provides a portfolio of services to government sponsored healthcare programs, focusing on under-insured and uninsured individuals. Many receive benefits provided under Medicaid, including the State Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), as well as Aged, Blind or Disabled (ABD), Foster Care and Long Term Care (LTC), in addition to other state-sponsored programs, Medicare (including the Medicare prescription drug benefit commonly known as "Part D"), as well as programs with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Centene operates local health plans and offers a range of health insurance solutions. It also contracts with other healthcare and commercial organizations to provide specialty services including behavioral health management, care management software, correctional healthcare services, dental benefits management, in-home health services, life and health management, managed vision, pharmacy benefits management, specialty pharmacy and telehealth services.
Centene uses its investor relations website to publish important information about the Company, including information that may be deemed material to investors. Financial and other information about Centene is routinely posted and is accessible on Centene's investor relations website, http://www.centene.com/investors.
About Health Net Federal Services
Health Net Federal Services has a long history of providing cost-effective, quality managed health care programs for government agencies, including the U.S. Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs. As the managed care support contractor for the TRICARE North Region, HNFS provides health care services to approximately 2.9 million uniformed services beneficiaries, active and retired, and their families. In addition, HNFS provides quality behavioral health services for active duty service members, veterans and their families. Visit www.hnfs.com for more information.
SOURCE Centene Corporation
Related Links
http://www.centene.com
ATLANTA, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of Georgia Natural Gas' commitment to community outreach, the company will present Zoo Atlanta with $500,000 in support of Zoo Atlanta's Grand New View capital campaign. The donation will support Zoo Atlanta's revitalization of the historic Cyclorama building, making it a one-of-a-kind event destination overlooking a new African Savanna where the zoo's African elephants and giraffes will roam. Other transformations will include a grand entry plaza from Cherokee Avenue, following the demolition of the Zoo's present administration building. The project is estimated for completion in 2019.
"Georgia Natural Gas believes in giving back to the communities where we live, work, and operate," says Michael Braswell, president of Georgia Natural Gas. "The Zoo connection really runs deep for our company and employees, since we have volunteered there for over a decade. We are excited to be able to make this contribution to Zoo Atlanta, which will help further their ability to serve Georgians."
"Thanks to good corporate citizens like Georgia Natural Gas, we not only met, but exceeded, our financial goals for completing the Grand New View: Elephants, Events and Expansion campaign. We're deeply grateful to Mike Braswell, Drew Evans and everyone at GNG for this donation," said Raymond B. King, president and CEO of Zoo Atlanta.
"As president and CEO of Southern Company Gas and board chairman of Zoo Atlanta, I am extremely grateful for the generous gift Georgia Natural Gas has chosen to donate to the Zoo," said Drew Evans. "Zoo Atlanta is the community's zoo, and this gift will allow the Zoo to serve the Atlanta community in a greater capacity for years to come."
Georgia Natural Gas is a premier natural gas marketer, serving approximately half a million customers. Georgia Natural Gas is actively engaged in the community with a community service focus on children and education; seniors; energy assistance; and environment and sustainability initiatives.
For more information regarding Georgia Natural Gas, please visit https://gng.com/about-us.
About Georgia Natural Gas
Georgia Natural Gas is a leading provider of natural gas to homes and businesses in Georgia. Georgia Natural Gas is part of SouthStar Energy Services, a preeminent retail natural gas marketing company operating in nine states. Based in Atlanta, SouthStar manages a portfolio of brands across its retail footprint including Georgia Natural Gas in the state of Georgia, Nicor Advanced Energy and Nicor Solutions in Illinois, and in other states, Ohio Natural Gas, Florida Natural Gas, Maryland Energy and Grand Rapids Energy (Michigan). SouthStar also does business in Tennessee and the Carolinas and in other parts of the southeast as SouthStar Energy Services. For more information visit: www.GNG.com .
About Zoo Atlanta
Viewed as one of the finest zoological institutions in the U.S. and a proud accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), Zoo Atlanta has a mission to inspire value and preservation of wildlife through a unique mix of education and outdoor family experiences. From well-known native wildlife to critically endangered species on the brink of extinction, the Zoo offers memorable close encounters with more than 1,000 animals from around the world. The Zoo's newest destination, Scaly Slimy Spectacular: The Amphibian and Reptile Experience, featuring more than 70 species in a 111,000 square-foot complex, opened in 2015 and is the world's first LEED Gold-certified reptile and amphibian exhibit. Zoo highlights include giant pandas, including a set of twins born to Lun Lun in September 2016; North America's largest zoological population of great apes; and a global center of excellence for the care and study of reptiles and amphibians. Up-close-and-personal animal experiences include behind-the-scenes Wild Encounters with African elephants, Aldabra giant tortoises, lemurs and warthogs. Zoo Atlanta is open daily with the exceptions of Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Keeper talks, interactive wildlife shows, education programs and special events run year-round. For more information, visit zooatlanta.org.
About SouthStar Energy Services
SouthStar Energy Services (SouthStar) is a preeminent retail natural gas marketing company operating in nine states. Based in Atlanta, SouthStar manages a portfolio of brands across its retail footprint including Georgia Natural Gas in the state of Georgia, Nicor Advanced Energy and Nicor Solutions in Illinois, and in other states, Ohio Natural Gas, Florida Natural Gas, Maryland Energy and Grand Rapids Energy (Michigan). SouthStar also does business in Tennessee and the Carolinas and in other parts of the southeast as SouthStar Energy Services. For more information visit: www.southstarenergy.com .
About Southern Company Gas
Southern Company Gas is a wholly owned subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America's premier energy company. Southern Company Gas serves approximately 4.5 million natural gas utility customers through its regulated distribution companies in seven states and more than 1 million retail customers through its companies that market natural gas and related home services. Other nonutility businesses include investments in interstate gas pipelines, asset management for natural gas wholesale customers and ownership and operation of natural gas storage facilities. For more information, visit Southern Company Gas at southerncompanygas.com
SOURCE Georgia Natural Gas
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LOS ANGELES, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- BGASC, a leading precious metals dealer, has shipped ten 1/10th oz 2016 American Gold Eagle Coins to Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg to ease her exit from the United States now that Donald J. Trump has been elected President. The NY Times reported in July that Justice Ginsburg stated when asked about a Trump Presidency, "Now it's time for us to move to New Zealand."
Apparently, Ms. Ginsburg, who famously told an Egyptian television audience that she would not recommend the U.S. Constitution as a model for a new Egyptian Constitution, would rather head to the Antipodes Islands than serve on the U.S. Supreme Court with Donald Trump as President. When the justice will leave is not known. But the coins have been shipped to her so she can prepare her departure.
Martin Thomas at BGASC stated, "We chose to donate the 1/10th oz gold coins as they are easy to transport and a good size should the judge need to transact with them. In addition, gold is up over 180% over the New Zealand dollar over the last 12 years and the judge might appreciate the hedge against the currency. This generous gift will serve as thanks for Ms. Ginsburg's service on the bench and to wish her well in her new life down under."
Recently, Townhall.com published a list of twenty-three celebrities who stated they would leave the United States if Donald Trump became President. Supreme Court Justice Ginsburg was among the twenty-three potential expatriates.
The gift was shipped fully insured through the United States Post Office this week.
SOURCE BGASC
Related Links
http://www.bgasc.com
Lyle Schwartz is named President of Investment, North America, with responsibility for overseeing investment in the company's largest region, where more than $30B (RECMA) is invested on behalf of clients annually. On Schwartz's promotion, Lesser said, "This is the first time someone with a research and analytics background has been named trading chief for a major media investment group. This decision underscores our belief that data and insights are fundamental to the success of the entire business."
Schwartz has more than 30 years of experience at WPP inclusive of his early positions at Y&R prior to its acquisition by WPP. Schwartz helped build the research department at GroupM, which is already fully integrated into the trading organization to support insights-driven 'one voice trading,' another point of distinction in GroupM's approach to media investment. Schwartz has made significant contributions to a number of company and industry-wide milestones, including the development of C3 ratings for time-shifted TV, defining viewability in digital and pushing the industry for platform-agnostic video measurement. All North American investment team members across TV, digital, radio, print and local now report up to Schwartz.
In conjunction with Schwartz's promotion, Rino Scanzoni, GroupM's long-standing Chief Investment Officer in North America, is transitioning to Executive Chairman and CEO of both Midas Exchange, a WPP company focused on corporate trade, and Modi Media, GroupM's advanced television division in the U.S. Scanzoni will continue to build and expand new trading products as well as contribute to market strategy for the group.
"Rino Scanzoni is widely recognized as one of the most determined, innovative and influential media investment chiefs, not only in the U.S., but worldwide," said Irwin Gotlieb, Chairman of GroupM Global. "Rino's unwavering focus on negotiating the best media opportunities and the best value for our clients, combined with his uncanny ability to find solutions that also benefit our media partners has strengthened the media ecosystem in the U.S. and has driven our clients' and GroupM's success. We're so very pleased that he will continue working with our group in a new capacity focused on Midas Exchange, Modi Media and strategic marketplace opportunities."
Platform Services
Phil Cowdell is appointed President, Platform Services, North America, a new organization that will encompass programmatic media, search marketing, social media, digital operations and digital analytics. This unified team will enable marketers who work with GroupM's agencies to find, create and activate their most important audiences and gain a competitive advantage.
For the past two years, Cowdell served as the North American CEO of MediaCom where he has been instrumental in helping the agency win more than $1.5 billion in new business from companies including Anheuser-Busch InBev, Bayer, Sony Playstation and Mars. With 29 years of industry experience, Cowdell joined WPP's Mindshare in 2001 and has since held numerous leadership positions across GroupM and WPP in EMEA and North America. (MediaCom North America continues to be led by Sasha Savic, CEO of MediaCom, U.S. and Kevin Johnson, CEO of MediaCom Canada.)
On Cowdell's appointment, Lesser said: "Aligning our teams and resources under an experienced leader like Phil will expand the support GroupM provides to our agencies and their clients. With his track record leading successful agency teams, he knows very well the need for powerful, nimble and adaptable tools to help drive our clients' success, and his inspiring leadership will help the Platform Services team do just that."
About GroupM
GroupM is the leading global media investment management company serving as the parent to WPP media agencies including Mindshare, MEC, MediaCom, Maxus, and Essence, as well as the programmatic digital media platform, Xaxis, each global operations in their own right with leading market positions. GroupM's primary purpose is to maximize the performance of WPP's media agencies by operating as leader and collaborator in trading, content creation, sports, digital, finance, and proprietary tool development. GroupM's focus is to deliver unrivaled marketplace advantage to its clients, stakeholders and people, and is increasingly working closely for the benefit of clients with WPP's data investment management group, Kantar. Together GroupM and Kantar account for over 50% of WPP's group revenues of more than $20 billion.
Discover more about GroupM at www.groupm.com.
Follow @GroupMWorldwide on Twitter
Follow GroupM on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/groupm
Media Contacts:
[email protected]
+1 212.297.8092 (U.S.)
[email protected]
+1 917.421.3019 (U.S.)
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SOURCE GroupM
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SAN DIEGO, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Shareholder rights law firm Johnson & Weaver, LLP has launched an investigation into whether the board members of Harman International Industries, Incorporated (NYSE: HAR) breached their fiduciary duties in connection with the proposed sale of the Company to Samsung Electronics. Harman designs and engineers connected products and solutions for automakers, consumers and enterprises worldwide.
On November 14, 2016, Harman announced it had signed a definitive merger agreement with Samsung. Under the terms of the agreement, Samsung will acquire all of the outstanding shares of Harman common stock for $112.00 per share in cash.
The investigation concerns whether the Harman board failed to satisfy their duties to the Company shareholders, including whether the board adequately pursued alternatives to the acquisition and whether the board obtained the best price possible for Harman shares of common stock. Nationally recognized Johnson & Weaver is investigating whether the proposed deal price represents adequate consideration, especially given the expected growth in vehicle smart technology.
If you are a shareholder of Harman and believe the proposed buyout price is too low and you're interested in learning more about the investigation or your legal rights and remedies, please contact lead analyst Jim Baker ([email protected]) at 619-814-4471.
About Johnson & Weaver, LLP:
Johnson & Weaver, LLP is a nationally recognized shareholder rights law firm with offices in California, New York and Georgia. The firm represents individual and institutional investors in shareholder derivative and securities class action lawsuits. For more information about the firm and its attorneys, please visit http://www.johnsonandweaver.com. Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Contact:
Johnson & Weaver, LLP
Jim Baker, 619-814-4471
[email protected]
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SOURCE Johnson & Weaver, LLP
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IRVINE, Calif. and SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- HCP (NYSE:HCP) ("HCP" or the "Company") announced today that its Board of Directors intends to elect Tom Herzog, HCP's current Chief Financial Officer, as Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board. The Board also intends to elect Justin Hutchens, HCP's current Chief Investment Officer, as President. Both elections are anticipated to be made effective January 1, 2017.
Mr. Herzog has served as CFO since June 2016 after rejoining the Company, having previously served as CFO from 2009 to 2011. He will report to Mike McKee, who has served as interim President and CEO since July 2016 and will remain Executive Chairman. Mr. Hutchens will report to Mr. Herzog.
"The Board is very excited to announce HCP's new generation of leadership, which was one of the key strategic goals we outlined earlier this year," said Mr. McKee. "Tom and Justin are both outstanding executives, and their skills and experience have been invaluable during the past year as we have made significant progress on our long-term strategic plan. In addition, elevating two highly qualified senior members of our current executive team will ensure stability as well as continuity of leadership and strategy as we continue our transition to HCP 3.0, and our vision for a stronger and more profitable company. We are all committed and excited to continue to work together to drive improved performance and build shareholder value."
"I am honored by the opportunity to lead HCP through its next phase of growth and development, and I greatly appreciate the confidence of our Board of Directors," said Mr. Herzog. "Our entire executive team and Board are fully aligned with our strategic vision, and I look forward to continuing to work with Justin and the rest of our outstanding leadership team to build value for our shareholders. Since I returned to HCP in June, we have achieved a number of our near-term strategic goals, and this gives me great confidence in our ability to continue to execute the long-term plan. From top to bottom, HCP is an extremely talented and hard-working organization, and I look forward to collaborating with our entire team to ensure this next chapter in our corporate history is as successful as possible."
Mr. Hutchens said, "I look forward to this new role at HCP at this key point in our transition, and I am thrilled to continue working alongside Tom, whom I respect immensely as an executive and colleague. I have no doubt he will provide strong and stable leadership that will inspire continued confidence in HCP's success among our employees, shareholders, operating partners and other stakeholders. We have all worked incredibly hard this year to ensure the successful transformation of the business, and we have a clear strategy in place to continue this performance."
CFO Search
HCP has retained Korn Ferry, a leading global executive recruiting firm, which has already initiated a search for a new CFO to replace Mr. Herzog in 2017.
Tom Herzog Biography
Mr. Herzog is HCP's Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. From January 2013 until joining HCP in June 2016, he was Senior Vice President - Chief Financial Officer of UDR, Inc., a leading multifamily REIT. Mr. Herzog served as Chief Financial Officer of Amstar, a Denver-based real estate investment company, from August 2011 to January 2013. He previously served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of HCP from April 2009 to May 2011. Mr. Herzog was Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer at Apartment Investment and Management Company, a leading multifamily REIT, from 2004 to 2005 and Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from 2005 to 2009. From 2000 to 2004, he served in the roles of Chief Accounting Officer & Global Controller and Finance Technical Advisor for GE Real Estate. Prior to joining GE Real Estate, Mr. Herzog began his career in public accounting with Deloitte & Touche LLP, serving in the audit department for ten years, including a two-year national office assignment in the real estate group. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Tier REIT, an office property REIT.
Justin Hutchens Biography
Mr. Hutchens has been with HCP since September 2015, most recently as Executive Vice President and Chief Investment Officer. Prior to joining HCP, Mr. Hutchens was President and Chief Executive Officer of National Health Investors, Inc., a healthcare REIT, since March 2011 and President and Chief Operating Officer ("COO") from February 2009 to March 2011. He served on NHI's Board of Directors from 2010 to 2015. Mr. Hutchens has national operating experience as the Senior Vice President and COO of Summerville Senior Living from 2003 to 2007 and upon its merger with Emeritus Corporation, the Executive Vice President and COO of Emeritus Senior Living Corporation from 2007 to 2009. From 1997 to 2003, he held multi-site management roles overseeing marketing and operations in the senior housing and post-acute industries. Mr. Hutchens currently serves on the Board of Directors for the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing and Care.
ABOUT HCP
HCP, Inc. is a fully integrated real estate investment trust (REIT) that invests primarily in real estate serving the healthcare industry in the United States. HCP owns a large-scale portfolio diversified across multiple sectors, led by senior housing, life science and medical office. Recognized as a global leader in sustainability, HCP has been a publicly-traded company since 1985 and was the first healthcare REIT selected to the S&P 500 index. For more information regarding HCP, visit www.hcpi.com. http://www.hcpi.com/
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
The statements contained in this release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including those relating to our CEO and President transition and expected process for hiring our CFO and our business opportunities and outlook. These statements are made as of the date hereof, and are not guarantees of future events. They are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events to differ materially from those set forth therein or implied thereby. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those identified in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We assume no, and hereby disclaim any, obligation to update any of the foregoing or any forward-looking statements as a result of new information or new or future developments, except as otherwise required by law.
CONTACT
Andrew Johns
Vice President Finance and Investor Relations
(949) 407-0400
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SOURCE HCP, Inc.
Related Links
http://www.hcpi.com
WALNUT CREEK, Calif., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Heffernan Foundation, the charitable giving program for Heffernan Insurance Brokers, announced today its 2016 Garee Lee Smith scholarship recipients. The scholarship provides employees or family members of employees with $5,000 to assist with the cost of education.
This is the 11th year of the program, with Heffernan Foundation selecting eight students to each receive the scholarship. It honors the late Garee Lee Smith, a longtime Heffernan employee who embodied the culture and spirit of Heffernan and loved to help fellow employees and her community whenever possible. Applicants are chosen for their grades, commitment to their community, and future personal and academic goals.
"It is an honor to be part of this event each year," said Michelle Lonaker, Director of the Heffernan Foundation. "Hearing the goals these young adults have of working in their communities and seeing their ambition shine through gives me faith in our young generation. Garee would be proud of all our recipients over the years."
A dinner was held on August 4, 2016 to honor the students, their achievements, and Smith's legacy. The 2016 Garee Lee Smith scholarship recipients are Anna Harryman, Ashley Johnson, Brian Haggard, Christia Forest, Cynthia Ruiz, Dakota Stoll, Vanessa Bondoc and Victoria Ketchum.
A video highlighting the Heffernan Foundation's mission can be found at https://youtu.be/L9XoDDrkC0w.
About Heffernan Foundation
Heffernan Foundation's mission is to serve nonprofits that provide direct support and services to local communities in the areas of shelter, food, education and the preservation of the environment.
Heffernan Foundation is the charitable giving program of Heffernan Insurance Brokers, headquartered in Walnut Creek, Calif., and with offices in San Francisco, Petaluma, Menlo Park, Los Angeles and Orange County, CA; Portland, OR; and St. Louis, MO. Employee-owned, the company has been among the Top Greater Bay Area Philanthropists since 2003, donating more than 13 percent of profits to charity in 2015.
For more information, visit www.heffernanfoundation.com or call 925.295.2575. License #0564249
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SOURCE Heffernan Foundation
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Since the program's 2004 launch, FMA Live! has traveled nearly 110,000 miles to more than 1,200 schools and performed for 460,000 students in 48 contiguous U.S. states, as well as in Mexico and Canada. The one-of-a-kind show incorporates hip-hop music, dancers, student volunteers, and on-stage, interactive science experiments to demonstrate how physics is part of everyday life.
"The astronauts of 2025 are sitting in our middle schools today," said Donald James, NASA's associate administrator for Education "There is no better time to get students excited about STEM topics. Alongside Honeywell, we have created a program that provides students with an early look into the career possibilities that exist in these fields."
Each performance focuses on Newton's law of universal gravitation and three laws of motion. FMA Live! is named after Newton's second law of motion [Force equals Mass times Acceleration] and uses music videos and interactive scientific demonstrations to teach and inspire students to pursue STEM careers.
"In each school we visit during the tour, we bring to life the importance of subjects like science and math and encourage students to explore careers that will ultimately change the world we live in," said Mike Bennett, president, Honeywell Hometown Solutions. "The popularity of FMA Live! is a testament to its ability to both entertain and inspire students."
The FMA Live! Forces in Motion experience also features an online "Teachers' Lounge" that includes National Science Standards-based teaching resources including downloadable streaming videos, music from the show, and a comprehensive educational guide with lesson plans. This digital tool maintains post-show momentum and can be incorporated into classroom learning objectives throughout the school year. 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! in 2004 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 offer the best window of opportunity to get students interested in STEM careers.
Supporting Resources
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 Honeywell
Honeywell (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 about Honeywell, please visit www.honeywellnow.com.
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/20161111/438443
SOURCE Honeywell
Related Links
http://www.honeywell.com
(Beijing) The banking subsidiary of China's second-largest life insurer has delayed routine staff bonuses amid ongoing pressure to streamline operations and strengthen its internal control system after a corruption scandal.
Ping An Bank told employees that they will not receive bonuses for the third quarter, which are usually handed out by the end of the year. Instead, any bonuses that the bank does decide to distribute won't be distributed until next year, several workers from the bank told Caixin.
The expected third-quarter payments were suspended because the bank was developing a strategy to improve operational efficiency, the bank's human resources department said in an internal announcement.
The bank was also considering revamping its industry-focused banking services structure, which would lead to staff layoffs, sources from the bank said earlier. Those who remain may face pay cuts of 10%, while cuts for senior executives could be as deep as 30%.
The proposed reorganization comes in the wake of a management reshuffle that saw both the bank's president and chairman replaced in October.
The new management team faces problems that includes a rising number of bad loans, a situation that critics say was caused in part by a corporate culture that encouraged irresponsible lending.
The team also needs to strengthen the bank's internal controls, which received attention after Liu Shuyun, a former executive, was detained by police in August on graft charges.
The bank's head office in Shenzhen has asked all branches to examine their internal controls for loopholes and submit reports by the end of January, according to bank sources. Employees were also being encouraged to report transgressions via email or through special mailboxes set up in branch offices, the employees said.
The head office plans to review the results of these requirements in April, meaning that employee bonuses could be delayed until the review is complete, the sources said.
Contact reporter Wang Yuqian (yuqianwang@caixin.com); editor Kerry Nelson (kerry@caixin.com)
DUBAI, UAE, November 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --
Igenomix has recently been rewarded accreditation by College of American Pathologists (CAP) in Dubai (UAE), given its state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge products in the space of advanced reproductive genetics.
The U.S. federal government recognizes the CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program, begun in the early 1960s, as being equal to or more stringent than the government's own inspection program. The process is designed to ensure the highest standard of care for all laboratory patients.
"The CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program's goal is to improve patient safety by advancing the quality of pathology and laboratory services through education, standard setting, and ensuring laboratories meet or exceed regulatory requirements. Igenomix is now the first Private Genetic Laboratory to be accredited by CAP in Middle East, which demonstrates the quality of the genetic testing services Igenomix delivers," said Dr. Rupali Chopra, Lab Director, Igenomix Dubai.
Francisco Rodriguez, General Manager Igenomix, Middle East & India, upon learning of the laboratory's accreditation, said, "Igenomix becoming accredited by CAP is a great achievement and milestone, but most important is that doctors and patients can now be completely sure about Igenomix commitment and conviction of providing the best quality genetic services."
Igenomix is one of the world's leading providers of advanced services in reproductive genetics. Currently operating from eight laboratories worldwide, has aggressive expansion plans to set foot in many new geographies including Canada and Turkey which will be operational soon. The global team of experts led by Prof. Dr. Carlos Simon, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Valencia University and Stanford School of Medicine, Chief Scientific Officer and also a key shareholder of Igenomix, has come up with some path-breaking genetics services to support the specialists in the field of reproductive medicine over last few years. Specialist services offered by IGENOMIX include PGS (PreImplantation Genetic Screening) with the added advantage of MitoScore, NACE (Non invasive Analysis of Chromosomal Examination); CGT (Carrier Genetic Test); PGD (Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis) and ERA (Endometrial Receptivity Analysis).
About Igenomix:
Igenomix is a biotechnology company that provides advanced services in reproductive genetics. Our broad experience and advanced research ability make us one of the global leaders in this field, and we make sure we offer effective solutions adapted to different infertility problems.
For further information about the company visit: http://www.igenomix.com
Media Contact:
Divya Bhasin
[email protected]
SOURCE Igenomix
FORT WORTH, Texas, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Southwest Bank and Robert Lansford (collectively, the "Southwest Bank Participants") today announced that they have received a statement of support from Jon Brumley, veteran of the oil and gas industry and creator of several royalty trusts including the San Juan Basin Royalty Trust (the "Trust" or "SJT"). Mr. Brumley provided the following statement:
"As a unitholder familiar with the San Juan Basin Royalty Trust, I support Southwest Bank as trustee for the Trust. I believe Southwest Bank is doing a good job on the royalty trusts they currently administer."
The Southwest Bank Participants appreciate the support of Mr. Brumley and continue to encourage unitholders of the Trust to vote for the removal of Compass Bank as trustee of the Trust and the appointment of Southwest Bank as successor trustee at the November 21, 2016 special meeting of the Trust's unitholders.
Unitholders are urged to sign, date and return the WHITE proxy card today, or they may vote online or by telephone by following the instructions on the voting materials they have received. The Southwest Bank Participants also encourage unitholders to contact their proxy solicitor, Okapi Partners, at (212) 297-0720 or toll-free at (877) 279-2311 or by email at [email protected] with any questions, or if they need assistance with their vote.
About Southwest Bank
Proudly serving North Texas for 50 years, Southwest Bank is the largest locally owned, independent bank in Tarrant County. In addition to full-service banking centers in Fort Worth, Dallas, Arlington, Burleson, Grapevine, Mansfield and Saginaw, Southwest Bank maintains mortgage offices in Fort Worth, Dallas and Austin and a royalty trust management office in Dallas. Southwest Bank values its customers and believes in building loyal, lasting relationships through personalized service, honesty and integrity. For more information, visit www.SouthwestBank.com. Member FDIC.
SOURCE Southwest Bank Participants
Related Links
http://www.SouthwestBank.com
REDWOOD CITY, Calif., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- ItsOn, the mobile IT leader in delivering innovative digital experiences for consumers, announced today that it has been selected as a finalist in this year's Fierce Innovation Awards: Telecom Edition, a carrier-reviewed awards program from the publisher of FierceWireless, FierceTelecom and FierceCable. ItsOn was recognized as a finalist in the category of service orchestration and delivery for its cloud-based platform that enables digital transformation among mobile operators.
"We are delighted to be recognized as a finalist in the Fierce Innovation Awards," said Robert Oberhofer, Ph.D., vice president of technical sales and marketing at ItsOn. "We are continually striving to be a leader and innovator in helping operators achieve their business goals as they look to meet the market demands of a new digital experience through our cloud platform."
Applications were reviewed by an exclusive panel of executives from major telecommunications companies including Verizon, TeliaSonera, Comcast, Sprint and T-Mobile. All applications were evaluated based on effectiveness, ease of use/ROI, innovation and end-user impact.
The ItsOn platform was recognized for its cloud-client solution that gives carriers a nimble, scalable architecture that integrates all key components to enable a modern digital service experience. Through ItsOn's cloud-based software, mobile operators can engage customers through on-device software with real-time, contextual notifications, usage information and self-service, which creates a personalized experience for consumers. It allows operators to create and deploy new services and monetization models through a more modern approach versus traditional OSS/BSS architectures. ItsOn already counts Saudi Telecom Company, Telefonica Mexico, MTN, Sprint and Virgin Mobile as customers.
ItsOn was also a finalist in the 2015 Fierce Innovation Awards: Telecom Edition in the OSS/BSS and Cloud Service categories. Winners of the 2016 awards will be announced via live webcast on Nov. 17 at 2 p.m. ET.
About FierceMarkets
FierceMarkets, a division of Questex, LLC, is a leader in B2B e-media, providing information and marketing services in the telecommunications, life sciences, healthcare, IT, energy, government, finance, and retail industries through its portfolio of email newsletters, websites, webinars and live events. Every business day, FierceMarkets' wide array of digital publications reaches more than 2 million executives in more than 100 countries.
Current publications include: Telecom: FierceWireless; FierceCable; FierceDeveloper; FierceOnlineVideo; FierceTelecom; FierceWirelessTech; FierceWireless:Europe /TelecomsEMEA, FierceInstaller; an Telecom Asia; Healthcare: FierceEMR; FierceHealthcare; FierceHealthFinance; FierceHealthIT; FierceHealthPayer; FierceHealthPayerAntiFraud; FierceMobileHealthcare; FiercePracticeManagement and Hospital Impact; Life Sciences: FierceBiotech; FierceBiotechIT; FierceBiotech Research; FierceCRO; FierceDiagnostics, FierceDrugDelivery; FierceMedicalDevices; FiercePharma; FiercePharmaAsia; FiercePharmaMarketing; FiercePharmaManufacturing; FierceVaccines and FierceAnimalHealth Enterprise IT: FierceBigData; FierceCIO; FierceContentManagement; FierceDevOps; FierceEnterpriseCommunications; FierceITSecurity and FierceMobileIT; Finance: FierceCFO; and FierceFinanceIT; Government: FierceGovernment; FierceGovernmentIT; FierceHomelandSecurity; FierceMobileGovernment; FierceCities and FierceGovHealthIT Marketing & Retail: FierceCMO; FierceTechExec.
About ItsOn
ItsOn is a proven leader in the telecommunications industry, having fundamentally changed how mobile services are delivered and consumed. The company launched its services platform for mobile operators in the U.S. and globally last year, and counts MTN, Saudi Telecom Company (STC), Sprint, Telefonica Mexico and Virgin Mobile USA as customers. ItsOn investors include Andreessen Horowitz, Tenaya Capital, Vodafone Ventures, Verizon Investments, Cisco and Delta Capital Partners. The company is privately held and headquartered in Redwood City, CA. For more information, please visit www.itsoninc.com or follow @ItsOnInc on Twitter.
SOURCE ItsOn
Related Links
http://itsoninc.com
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Like a lot of college graduates setting their sights on law school, John-Mark Mitchell decided to take a year off after graduating from Campbell University to prepare for that intense commitment. When he began working with Century 21, he thought he would make a little extra cash selling a few houses. But after selling a house for over $900,000 a much larger than average sum in the early 90s (and today!) for North Carolina he quickly discovered that a career in real estate might just be a good alternative to law school, and could be his true passion and life path. He became a top producer and began contemplating just how far he could go in the real estate industry.
Off to a whirlwind start, he began running ads that boldly proclaimed: "John Mark Mitchell, A Name Synonymous with Real Estate." Living up to and transcending his goal to become a true celebrity in the field, he was quickly recruited by Prudential, the largest real estate firm in the region, where he quickly became #1 agent for 12 years.
In 2014, Mitchell mirrored the feat, listing and negotiating a $980,000 property as the first official deal by his new independent luxury brokerage, now called Mitchell Prime Properties. Supported by his powerhouse team, he is recognized as the #1 Luxury Broker in the Triad Area, which consists of Winston-Salem, Greensboro and High Point. The company has the fewest days on the market and the highest average sold price of any real estate brokerage in the area.
The most recent 2015 statistics tell the incredible story. As an individual agent, at $720,000, Mitchell has the highest average sales price in the Triad. His company average for all combined sales is $530,000 almost unheard of figures in this area. By comparison, their closest competitors average around $240,000 and the average home sale is $161,000. Fostering a unique environment where agents work together rather than compete against each other as they can at traditional offices, the boutique agency currently has 11 brokers and Mitchell is looking to cap his first office at 16 brokers. Mitchell Prime Properties has plans to open additional offices in nearby cities in the next few years, with a few brokers at each location.
In addition to quickly dominating the luxury market in the Triad area of North Carolina, Mitchell has sold homes across the state including Statesville, Raleigh and Charlotte, where he has sold homes for up to $5.5 million and has helped celebrities find ideal properties. This has helped his client base grow exponentially, and has also led him to another point of distinction in relation to other Triad area brokers his feature in the January 2016 issue of Fortune Magazine.
Mitchell's unparalleled level of industry expertise has afforded him numerous opportunities to give seminars and training on "The Art of Selling Well." In late 2015, he also hit the Amazon Best-Seller list by co-authoring (with bestselling author Jack Canfield, originator of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series) the book, The Soul of Success, Vol. 2: The World's Leading Entrepreneurs and Professionals Reveal Their Core Strategies for Getting to the Heart of Health, Wealth and Success.
A firm believer in giving back, Mitchell co-founded a local charity for the homeless in the Winston-Salem area, known as B.R.A.C.E., which stands for Builders and Realtors Active in Community Efforts. He received the Governor's Award for this high impact initiative.
"At Mitchell Prime Properties," Mitchell continues, "we feel honored to represent our customers and clients, helping them make smart and exciting real estate decisions that add to their lifestyle in a positive way. It could be a small one bedroom condominium or a multi-million dollar gated estateAt the end of the day, our customer's happiness is what we work to achieve."
Learn more at http://www.johnmarkmitchell.com
Media Contact:
Matt Collins
[email protected]
800-980-1626
SOURCE Mitchell Prime Properties
Related Links
http://www.johnmarkmitchell.com
The Worldchefs Education Award was established in 2008 for the purpose of recognizing the work and efforts of an individual who has contributed to the aims and mission of Worldchefs and their role of developing educational programmes for Worldchefs members and chefs community across the globe. The award is presented every two years during the congress event by the President in the presence of both delegates and sponsors and is a recognition of the recipient's commitment to fostering and promoting the role of education, which is a primary focus for Worldchefs.
"Teaching and mentoring the next generation of industry leaders is something I truly love, but I also learn so much from my students in the process," said Chris Koetke, vice president of Kendall College's School of Culinary Arts. "I believe that when education is a two way street, that is when it's at its finest point. I am grateful and thrilled to receive this recognition from my peers."
The Worldchefs Congress & Expo, an event that began in 1930, attracts up to 2,000 delegates from all over the world. This premiere program, held in Thessaloniki, Greece, is an opportunity for participants to showcase cuisine, culture and traditions to an international culinary community.
This year's event featured culinary competitions, trade exhibitions and an education component. Koetke was one of the event's feature speakers. His presentations focused on the importance of educators setting sustainability standards for the food industry. He also served as a moderator of a panel of international experts who discussed the future trends and challenges the industry faces.
"No one who is more deserving of being recognized by the Wordchefs Congress for their contribution to culinary education," said Kendall College Interim President Kim Shambrook. "Chris is much more than a teacher. He is a leader who inspires his students and colleagues."
Koetke joined the Kendall College faculty in 1998, and in 2005, he became Dean of the School of Culinary Arts. Five years later (2010), Koetke was elevated to the role of Vice President.
"Kendall College has a world-class staff with a student body that is among the brightest in the world. Providing them with skillsets that they use to make a difference is something that I enjoy immensely," Koetke added.
Kendall College was recently ranked as the top educational institution for preparing students for careers in hospitality management and culinary arts (TNS Global 2013 Survey).
For more information about Kendall College and its degree programs, visit www.kendall.edu.
About Worldchefs
The World Association of Chefs Societies Worldchefs is a non-political professional organization, dedicated to maintaining and improving the culinary standards of global cuisines.
We accomplish these goals through Education, Training and continuing professional development of our international membership. As an authority and opinion leader on food, Worldchefs represents a global voice on all issues related to the culinary profession.
About Kendall College:
Kendall College, founded in 1934 and located in Chicago, offers undergraduate degrees in culinary arts, hospitality management, business and early childhood education to a diverse and passionate community of more than 2,100 students each year. The curriculum combines strong academics with practical experience and international educational opportunities to give students in business, hospitality and culinary arts programs the skills and expertise to be leaders in their professions. Kendall College was ranked the No. 1 program in Chicago for preparing students for careers in hospitality management and culinary arts in a survey of hiring managers at Chicago's leading hotels and Michelin Guide restaurants (TNS Global - 2013 Survey) and was rated a top 50 Global Hospitality Management School by CEOWorld. Kendall College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. For more information, visit www.Kendall.edu.
Kendall is part of the Laureate International Universities networka global network of more than 80 campus-based and online universities in 28 countries. For more information, visit www.laureate.net.
Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20161114/438974
Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20161114/438973LOGO
SOURCE Kendall College
NEW YORK, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- "Unleash Your Personal Next - Self Transformation for Sustainable Success" is an exclusive C-suite summit taking place on Nov. 15 at the headquarters of Time Inc. at 225 Liberty St. in New York City. The invitation-only event focuses on learning from the personal transformation journeys of key business executives in the digital era.
The event is co-hosted by Mphasis, a leading IT and digital solutions provider, [email protected], the online business analysis journal of The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and FORTUNE Knowledge Group, a custom business intelligence division of Time Inc., publisher of FORTUNE.
Digital transformation is a buzzword in every organization today. But the word "digital" is all too often used to mean technology. It is the human, personal aspect of transformation that lies at the heart of organizational change.
Without a personal transformation occurring in CEOs, an organization will find it almost impossible to adapt to the digital environment. To seek insights into the ways that CEOs are changing their leadership styles, traits and competencies to seize competitive advantage in the digital era, FORTUNE Knowledge Group conducted a survey of 200 CEOs and 200 C-level executives globally. The insights of the survey would be unveiled at this summit.
Key themes to be addressed are the following:
Digital Transformation: The CEOs' Perspective
Fireside Chat: Personal Adaptation
Disruptive Transformation
Fireside Chat: Transparency to Transformation
Fireside Chat: Cultural Conversion
Fortune Decodes Executive Transformation
Speakers include:
Mark Casady , Chairman & CEO, LPL Financial
, Chairman & CEO, LPL Financial David Clark , President, The Weather Channel
, President, The Weather Channel Alejandro Cremades , Co-Founder & Executive Chairman, Onevest
, Co-Founder & Executive Chairman, Onevest Joe Ripp , Executive Chairman, Time Inc.
, Executive Chairman, Time Inc. Sree Sreenivasan , Chief Digital Officer, NYC
, Chief Digital Officer, NYC Faith Taylor , Global Corporate Social Responsibility Officer, Wyndham Worldwide
, Global Corporate Social Responsibility Officer, Adam Tishman , Co-Founder, Helix Sleep
, Co-Founder, Helix Sleep Jose Tolosa , COO, Viacom International Media Networks
, COO, Viacom International Media Networks Tyler Wry , Assistant Professor of Management, The Wharton School
, Assistant Professor of Management, The Wharton School Diane Brady , Journalist, formerly of WSJ and Bloomberg News
, Journalist, formerly of WSJ and Bloomberg News Jennifer Reingold , Editor-at-Large Fortune Magazine
, Editor-at-Large Fortune Magazine Rama Ramaswami, Executive Editor Fortune Knowledge Group
Robert Reiss , Founder & CEO The CEO Show
, Founder & CEO The CEO Show Ganesh Ayyar, CEO, Mphasis
For more information about the event, please download the brochure here. The event website can be found here: http://knowledge.whartonevents.com/mphasis-nyc/.
About [email protected]:
[email protected] is the online business analysis journal of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. The site, which is free, captures relevant knowledge generated at Wharton and beyond by offering articles and videos based on research, conferences, speakers, books and interviews with faculty and other experts on current business topics. [email protected] offers content in Chinese, Spanish and Portuguese and has a separate site for high school educators and students.
About The FORTUNE Knowledge Group
The FORTUNE Knowledge Group (FKG) is a custom business intelligence division of Time Inc., publisher of FORTUNE. FKG develops proprietary research and analysis on a range of issues, such as management, regulatory compliance, innovation and strategy.
About Mphasis:
Mphasis enables chosen customers to meet the demands of an evolving market place. Recently named by American Banker and BAI as one of the top companies in FinTech and as the "Most Distinguished Digital Company in 2015" by The Economic Times, Mphasis fuels this by combining superior human capital with cutting-edge solutions in hyper-specialized areas. Contact Mphasis through www.mphasis.com
SOURCE Mphasis
Related Links
http://www.mphasis.com
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- An article in the latest Harvard International Review by WomenStrong Executive Director Dr. Susan M. Blaustein explains the genesis of WomenStrong International, a consortium of non-profit organizations in five nations supporting women-driven solutions to extreme urban poverty. The article provides an historic context for the importance of women and girls in global development, and explains why they are such central players in realizing the 2030 U.N. Sustainable Development Goals.
An outgrowth of the Millennium Cities Initiative at Columbia University's Earth Institute, WomenStrong was built on a decade of work during which, Blaustein notes, "we observed that women and girls on the ground had led our most effective programs in the Millennium Cities.
"Whether through the vehicles of savings groups, community cleanup crews, or Girls' Clubs, the girls and women clearly valued the chance to succeed, to lead, to form common bonds, and to broaden their range of future opportunities," she writes. "To continue this work, and as a further proof-of-concept, we resolved to create an organization explicitly for the purpose of enabling women-driven development, to see how far severely under-resourced neighborhoods might get with women devising the agenda and leading the way."
Now in its second year, the unusual consortium model of WomenStrong has successfully brought together determined non-profits working with impoverished girls and women in cities across five countries. Two of these Kisumu, Kenya, and Kumasi, Ghana have built upon the work accomplished under the Millennium Cities Initiative. Together with WomenStrong's three new venues in Madurai, India, Borgne, Haiti, and Washington, DC, the projects share and adapt useful tools, resources, program ideas, and lessons learned from hard-won experience. The members brainstorm solutions to the many common challenges they face, finding inspiration and successful tactics in work being done thousands of miles away.
The article "One Path Toward Effective Global Development: Learning from Those with the Most at Stake" can be found at http://hir.harvard.edu/one-path-toward-effective-global-development-learning-stake/
The Harvard International Review is a quarterly journal and website of international relations published by the Harvard International Relations Council at Harvard University. The journal offers commentary on global developments in politics, economics, business, science, technology, and culture, as well as interviews with prominent global leaders and reviews of books and documentaries. The publications aims to feature "underappreciated topics in the international affairs discourse and underappreciated perspectives on more widely discussed topics."
ABOUT WOMENSTRONG INTERNATIONAL
WomenStrong International is a consortium of non-profit organizations in five nations supporting women-driven solutions to extreme urban poverty. WomenStrong emerged from a decade of work at Columbia University's Millennium Cities Initiative, where we found that the most successful programs were local and led by women. Through our Consortium members in Ghana, Kenya, Haiti, India, and Washington, D.C., we help thousands of women and girls meet their 6 Essential Needs for health, shelter, safety, education, economic empowerment and a functioning urban environment. These women, in turn, improve the lives of their children, families, communities and nations. WSI believes the path out of poverty and toward a more just and prosperous world can be found by making women strong. For more information, visit www.womenstrong.org.
SOURCE WomenStrong International
Related Links
http://www.womenstrong.org
DARMSTADT, Germany, November 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --
Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, a leading science and technology company, today announced the results of the ADDRESS II Phase IIb, multicenter study on atacicept in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Patients on standard-of-care therapy (n=306) were randomized to weekly subcutaneous injections of atacicept (75 or 150 mg) or placebo for 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients achieving a clinical response as defined by a composite SLE Responder Index (SRI)-4 at week 24. Secondary endpoints included SRI-6 response rate and time to severe flare, assessed by SLEDAI flare index (SFI) or BILAG.
Although the primary endpoint was not met in the overall study population, there was a trend favoring atacicept with statistical significance achieved in a pre-specified sensitivity analysis of the primary endpoint using treatment Day 1 as baseline (rather than screening visit); atacicept 75 mg (55.9%, adjusted odds ratio/OR 1.88, p=0.029) and 150 mg (55.8%, adjusted OR 1.96, p=0.020) compared with placebo (41.0%). BILAG A flare was significantly reduced compared to placebo with atacicept 75 mg (p=0.019), and severe SFI flare reduced with 150 mg (p=0.002).
Additionally, analyses of a predefined subpopulation of patients with high disease activity (HDA; SLEDAI-2K10, n=158) demonstrated statistically significant treatment effects of atacicept when compared to placebo. SRI-6 response at week 24 was significantly greater with atacicept 150 mg (54.9%, adjusted OR 3.30, p=0.005) compared with placebo (28.8%). Both atacicept doses led to significant reductions in the incidence of severe flare versus placebo, BILAG A flare (150 mg, hazard ratio/HR 0.32, p=0.038; 75 mg, HR 0.08, p=0.002) and SFI flare (150 mg, HR 0.19, p=0.004; 75 mg, HR 0.33, p=0.029).
"This is an impressive result, and particularly remarkable for having been achieved in a small study and in 24 weeks," said Dr. Joan Merrill, Coordinating Investigator for the ADDRESS II study. "If confirmed in future studies, this could hold exciting possibilities for our patients."
Luciano Rossetti, Head of Global Research & Development for the biopharma business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany added, "Building on the results of the APRIL SLE study, the results of ADDRESS II show that atacicept has the potential to become an important option for patients with lupus. We are particularly encouraged by the results in patients with high disease activity which was approximately 50% of the patients in the ADDRESS II study. We are looking forward to discussions with the regulatory authorities."
Atacicept was also associated with increased serum complement C3 and C4, and decreased IgG, IgM, IgA, and anti-dsDNA antibodies over time. Treatment-emergent adverse event incidence was slightly higher with atacicept (150 mg, 80.8%; 75 mg, 81.4%) than placebo (71.0%), however, the risks of serious adverse events or serious/severe infections were not increased with atacicept versus placebo, and there were no deaths. The safety findings were comparable for the high disease activity subpopulation, in that the risks of serious adverse events or serious/severe infections were not increased with atacicept versus placebo.
These results will be presented in a late-breaking poster session, "Efficacy and Safety of Atacicept in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Results of a 24-week Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Phase IIb Study," at the 2016 American College of Rheumatology/Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals (ACR/ARHP) Annual Meeting in Washington, DC, U.S.
For more information about the data presented, please review the ACR/ARHP website. Also, visit Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany's booth at this year's Annual Meeting to learn more about the company's commitment to advancing innovation in lupus and other immunological diseases.
About Atacicept
Atacicept is a potential treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Atacicept, a recombinant fusion protein, contains the soluble TACI receptor that binds to the cytokines BLyS and APRIL. These cytokines are members of the tumor necrosis factor family that promote B-cell survival and autoantibody production associated with certain autoimmune diseases such as SLE. Atacicept has been shown in animal models to affect several stages of B-cell development and may inhibit the survival of cells responsible for making antibodies. Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany acquired exclusive worldwide development and commercialization rights for atacicept, including in North America, from Zymogenetics (acquired by Bristol-Myers Squibb) in 2008. Atacicept is currently under clinical investigation and not approved for any use in the United States, Canada and Europe.
About Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
SLE (often referred to as "lupus") is a chronic autoimmune disease, where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues and organs. SLE can result in swollen, painful joints, skin rash, extreme fatigue and kidney damage. Estimates vary widely, but SLE may affect as many as 300,000 patients in the U.S. alone. Women and individuals with African American, Asian, and Hispanic heritage are affected disproportionately by SLE.
All Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the EMD Group Website. In case you are a resident of the USA or Canada please go to www.emdgroup.com/subscribe to register again for your online subscription of this service as our newly introduced geo-targeting requires new links in the email. You may later change your selection or discontinue this service.
About EMD Serono, Inc.
EMD Serono is the biopharma business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, in the U.S. and Canada - a leading science and technology company - focused exclusively on specialty care. For more than 40 years, the business has integrated cutting-edge science, innovative products and industry-leading patient support and access programs. EMD Serono has deep expertise in neurology, fertility and endocrinology, as well as a robust pipeline of potential therapies in oncology, immuno-oncology and immunology as R&D focus areas. Today, the business has more than 1,100 employees around the country with commercial, clinical and research operations based in the company's home state of Massachusetts.
About Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, is a leading science and technology company in healthcare, life science and performance materials. Around 50,000 employees work to further develop technologies that improve and enhance life - from biopharmaceutical therapies to treat cancer or multiple sclerosis, cutting-edge systems for scientific research and production, to liquid crystals for smartphones and LCD televisions. In 2015, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, generated sales of 12.85 billion in 66 countries.
Founded in 1668, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, is the world's oldest pharmaceutical and chemical company. The founding family remains the majority owner of the publicly listed corporate group. Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, holds the global rights to the Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, name and brand. The only exceptions are the United States and Canada, where the company operates as EMD Serono, MilliporeSigma and EMD Performance Materials.
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SOURCE Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
DULUTH, Georgia, November 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --
Medical Innovation Holdings, Inc. ("MIHI" or the "Company") (OTC: MIHI), today announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, "BKare Diagnostics, Inc." (BKare) has entered into a Marketing & Services Agreement with Vantari Genetics. Under the agreement BKare will provide certain marketing and other services to the Company's network of clients and Vantari will provide genetic based testing and conduct the molecular laboratory and toxicology testing services.
Vantari is a nationally known molecular diagnostic services and toxicology company, and has experience with the development and delivery of molecular laboratory and toxicology testing. It offers full array of genetic testing across the health spectrum, from pharmacogenetics to non-invasive prenatal testing and testing for inherited cancers. For more information on Vantari Diagnostics please go to: http://www.vantarigenetics.com
The Company focuses on providing telemedicine services to patients in rural underserved areas. Its wholly owned subsidiary, BKare's focus is to amass agreements with varied and various medical services and sources, and to market these through its proprietary network, and to share in the revenues generated thereby.
Bkare Diagnostics is a full-scale provider of high quality laboratory and pharmaceutical services providing personalized services for small and mid size medical practices and Virtual Health Medical Providers. With partner laboratories and product and service providers located throughout the United States they are able to serve patients nationwide.
All BKare Referral Laboratories are certified to provide services to Medicare, Medicaid, HMO and all private and commercial insurance companies. Their personalized services include customs testing protocols, tailored to meet client's needs and includes services as an Online Private Portals to order Tests, supplies, online results 24 hours with board certified pathologists.
For more information on BKare Diagnostics please go to: http://www.bkarediagnostics.com
Arturo "Jake" Sanchez, CEO and Director, stated: "This is the first of many more outsourcing agreements to come agreements with outside providers of medical services, medical devices, laboratory testing, prescription and other providers. We are also benefiting our network of physician providers by increasing their access to readily available additional sources to treat their patients and to increase the practice's revenues. Under this agreement, we are helping the medical providers the opportunity to provide the best care for their patients by incorporating the latest advances in genetic testing into your practice."
About Medical Innovation Holdings, Inc.
MIHI, a Colorado-based publicly traded company, owns and operates strategically aligned health care service companies focused on the delivery of clinical virtual medicine (health) as a way of bringing quality medical care to all areas of need including rural and underdeveloped areas across the country. Through our wholly owned subsidiary, 3Point Care, we provide personalized high-tech high-touch telemedicine encounters pairing our virtual health specialty doctors with traditional primary doctors utilizing nextgen virtual health technologies in order to connect a patient with a multi-disciplinary specialty clinical healthcare practice. Through our other companies and relationships, we offer Affordable Care Organization (ACO) support, wellness and prevention, lab analysis and lab services, and remote diagnostic monitoring.
We serve a number of constituents and stakeholders interested in reducing the cost of care, enhancing the quality of care, promoting access to care, and maintaining the continuum of care.
For more information on MIHI, please visit the Company's website at http://www.medicalinnovationholdings.com
To be added to the Company investor email list, please email [email protected] with MIHI in the subject line.
To leave a message please call +1-866-883-3793 for Investor Relations
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined within Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements relate to future events, including our ability to raise capital, or to our future financial performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond our control and which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects our current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to our operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.
For a discussion of these risks and uncertainties, please see our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Our public filings with the SEC are available from commercial document retrieval services and at the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov.
News Release
Investor Contacts:
1-866-883-3793
[email protected]
SOURCE Medical Innovation Holdings Inc
CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Gerard Adams, the founder of social impact startup accelerator, FOWNDERS, and the founder of "Voice of Generation Y" publication Elite Daily, will be speaking at Harvard Law School in a live, interactive talk with the audience and dialogue with fellow serial entrepreneur and attorney, Jordan French. Adams' talk is part of Harvard University Law School Entrepreneurship Incubate Program, an initiative that bridges Harvard's legal scholarship with entrepreneurship. The talk will be held at Harvard University Law School at 1585 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, Massachusetts.
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Gerard Adams was recently named to Magic Johnson's coveted 32 Under 32 List and gave his TEDx talk at New Jersey Institute of Technology in September 2016. In 2015, Adams sold the company he cofounded, Elite Daily, to the Daily Mail for $50 million. In 2016, Adams founded FOWNDERS, the social impact startup accelerator based in Newark, New Jersey to empower other minority entrepreneurs.
Incubate is a division of the Harvard Law School Entrepreneurship Project. Incubate is a community of entrepreneurs at the Law School, helping build startups within the law school. The organization facilitates interactions with entrepreneurs and venture capitalists in the community for networking and learning opportunities to encourage entrepreneurship. Incubate's inaugural Entrepreneur Workshop Series includes workshops on market research, business planning, business development and startup funding with a pitch competition as its capstone event.
Regarding his talk at Harvard, Adams said, "I look forward to engaging with Harvard's community around entrepreneurship, 'taking the leap' and bootstrapping a startup." Adams grew up in the greater Newark, New Jersey area--historically an impoverished city--and overcame immense odds and failure to succeed. "I'm an example that success can come from anywhere," added Adams.
ABOUT GERARD ADAMS
Gerard Adams, widely known as the "Millennial Mentor", is a leading thought leader, serial entrepreneur, angel investor and philanthropist. Adams is the co-founder of Elite Daily, the top news platform for Generation Y and the CEO and founder of FOWNDERS, a social entrepreneurship start-up accelerator. He is the winner of Magic Johnson's 32 Under 32 Award and was listed by Business Insider among the top-100 Most Influential People in Silicon Alley.
Featured in Success Magazine, Huffington Post, Inc. Magazine, Men's Health and Forbes, Gerard Adams overcame early adversity to become a self-made millionaire by the age of 24. He has built, backed or invested in twelve businesses across multiple industries that have all delivered over seven-figures including the sale of Elite Daily to Daily Mail for $50 million. While he continues his role as an investor and influencer, his mission in life is to mentor and inspire young entrepreneurs to develop what it takes to be successful and to turn dreams into reality.
Adams leverages his expertise in millennial branding across industries from digital media to technology to fashion. He is a go-to investor for New York City and New Jersey real estate and developments. Passionate about giving back to his community, Gerard helped develop affordable housing for communities in Newark, NJ.
ABOUT JORDAN FRENCH
Jordan is a five-time serial entrepreneur with business ranging from real estate data services to robotics. Jordan is a biomedical engineer, intellectual-property attorney and marketing guru. In 2004 and 2005, Jordan worked on heat-dissipation and air-filtration systems as a payload engineer for the NASA-funded Mars Gravity Biosatellite, which included a consortium of engineers and scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Washington and University of Queensland. He has held positions as an attorney-adviser at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and as the CEO and COO of a marketing firm, he grew to 30 employees and ranked on the Inc. 500 and Fast 50. Jordan French is the President of O'Dwyer-ranked Notability Partners, which works with top celebrities in music, film and technology.
Known as Gerard's "#2" at FOWNDERS, Jordan is on the leadership team of the Newark-based social-impact accelerator that mentors and inspires young entrepreneurs to develop what it takes to be successful and to turn dreams into reality. In 2016, Jordan French introduced 3D food printing to the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory at its conference in Braga, Portugal. He is a regular contributor to Huffington Post, Tech.co, TechCrunch and Business.com.
ABOUT HARVARD LAW SCHOOL
Established in 1817, Harvard Law School nurtures a spirit of innovation, critique, and revision that will guide the work of our third century. Current challenges demand nimble and yet well-designed responses. Through the efforts of our 38,000 alumni, superb faculty, extraordinary students, and remarkable staff, we continually strive to advance justice, the rule of law, and human welfare. Harvard Law School supports collaborative leaders skilled at analyzing problems, defining solutions, and deploying the power of persuasion so that the powerful will be persuaded and the powerless will be empowered.
Media Contact:
Jordan French
[email protected]
Related Links
FOWNDERS Official Website
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SOURCE Fownders, Inc.
ATLANTA, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Moe's Southwest Grill, a leader in the fast-casual Mexican restaurant space and recently announced by the Harris Poll as the Fast Casual Mexican Restaurant of the Year, today announced it is looking for new partnerships with experienced multi-unit franchise owners as the brand continues its expansion into Wisconsin.
"With multiple locations in neighboring states, Wisconsin represents an important part of Moe's growth strategy and we're excited about the brand's expansion into the region," said Peter Ortiz, Moe's Vice President of Franchise Sales. "The Moe's brand has become a top choice for some of the most successful multi-unit franchise owners in the country, so we're excited to watch the brand grow here due in large part to the talent of our franchisees."
As the company looks to open locations throughout the state, they are actively seeking qualified franchisees to develop in the areas in and around Au Claire, Green Bay, Lacrosse, Madison, Milwaukee and Wausau. Moe's currently operates two locations in the state in the Green Bay and Pewaukee areas and recently signed a three-store deal with franchisee Sunny Shah in Milwaukee.
Moe's had a successful year of franchise growth in 2015 with $641 million in system-wide sales, the opening of 68 new restaurants some in significant markets, including San Antonio, Austin, Dallas and Southern California and nearly 186 new franchise deals. This growth is fueled by both existing franchisees as well as new partnerships with experienced multi-unit franchise owners with notable portfolios.
Moe's currently operates more than 650 franchised locations in the U.S., across 39 states. The company has attracted a record number of franchise inquiries in recent years due to its quality leadership, healthy sales-to-investment ratio, and exceptional company performance.
About Moe's Southwest Grill
Welcome to Moe's! Founded in 2000 in Atlanta, GA, Moe's Southwest Grill is a fast-casual restaurant franchise featuring fresh, handmade, customizable southwestern food in a welcoming environment that rocks. Moe's is committed to serving only the highest quality ingredients 100% of the time at all of our locations in the U.S and abroad. While Moe's is best known for its burritos packed with a choice of more than 20 fresh, flavorful ingredients, the menu also features kid's, vegetarian and low-calorie options, all served with free chips and salsa. Check out Moe's online at www.moes.com.
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, Schlotzsky's, Moe's Southwest Grill, Auntie Anne's and McAlister's Deli, as well as Seattle's Best Coffee on certain military bases and in certain international markets. Please visit www.focusbrands.com to learn more.
Media Contact: Lauren Tweet, Allison+Partners, (214) 975-8784, [email protected]
SOURCE Moe's Southwest Grill
Related Links
http://www.moes.com
SANTA MONICA, Calif., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- A rising number of car shoppers have negative equity on their trade-ins when they're purchasing their next vehicle, reports Edmunds.com, the leading car information and shopping network. According to Edmunds data, an estimated 32 percent of all trade-ins toward the purchase of a new car through the first three quarters of 2016 were underwater. This is the highest rate on record, and it's up from 30 percent of all trade-ins toward new car purchases from January to September last year. These "upside down" shoppers had an average of $4,832 of negative equity at the time of trade-in, also a record.
"It's curious to see just how many of today's car shoppers are undeterred by how much they owe on their trade-ins," says Edmunds.com Sr. Analyst Ivan Drury. "With today's strong economic conditions at their back, these shoppers are willing to absorb a significant financial hit to get into a newer vehicle. In fact, shoppers with this mindset may want to consider jumping on the leasing bandwagon. They can get into a new car with great technology every few years without having to worry about how much they still owe on their trade-in."
To give an idea of how much these short-term shoppers can potentially save by switching to leasing, Edmunds found that the difference between the average monthly payment on a new car purchase ($505) was $77 more than the average monthly lease payment ($428) in the third quarter. In general, new car leasing is at its highest level ever. Leasing made up an estimated 33 percent of new car transactions in 2016, through October.
The phenomenon of upside down trade-ins is not limited to new car purchases. According to Edmunds' Q3 Used Vehicle Market Report, a record 25 percent of all trade-ins toward a used car purchase in the third quarter had negative equity. These shoppers had an average of $3,635 of negative equity at the time of trade-in, also a Q3 record in the used car market.
Edmunds generally recommends that all car shoppers wait until they have equity in a vehicle before they trade it in for another car. But, in cases where shoppers feel that their only choice is to trade in a car when they're underwater, Edmunds lays out a few strategies to minimize or even avoid -- the financial blow in its consumer advice piece "Upside Down and Under Water on a Car Loan."
About Edmunds.com
Car shopping destination Edmunds.com serves millions of visitors each month. With Edmunds.com Price Promise, shoppers can buy smarter with instant, upfront prices for cars and trucks currently for sale at 10,000 dealer franchises across the U.S. Shoppers can browse not only dealer inventory, but also vehicle reviews, shopping tips, photos, videos and feature stories on both Edmunds' wired site and on its acclaimed mobile apps. Regarded as one of the best places to work in Southern California, Edmunds.com was also named one of "The World's Top 10 Most Innovative Companies of 2015 in Automotive" by Fast Company. Edmunds welcomes all car-shopping questions on its free Live Help Line at 1-855-782-4711 and [email protected], via text at ED411 and on Twitter and Facebook. The company is based in Santa Monica, Calif. and has a satellite office in downtown Detroit, Mich., but you can find Edmunds from anywhere on YouTube, Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Google+ and Flipboard.
Contact:
Aaron Lewis
Edmunds.com Corporate Communications
www.Edmunds.com
Media Hotline: 310-309-4900
[email protected]
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SOURCE Edmunds.com
Related Links
http://www.edmunds.com
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Restaurant Association (NRA) and the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) today announced a partnership for the largest foodservice trade association in the world to acquire the training business assets and products of the American Hotel & Lodging Association Educational Institute (AHLEI). Currently owned by AHLA, AHLEI is recognized as the training and certifying body for the hospitality industry.
American Hotel & Lodging Association
Given the nature of the hospitality industry and the intrinsic sharing that goes on between the restaurant and lodging sectors, NRA and AHLA saw a unique opportunity to combine resources to produce an even more robust training program that will benefit employees in their career development and improve overall consumer satisfaction. AHLA will retain the certification business, and the NRA will assume day-to-day responsibility for AHLEI's training program business. Under the intended agreement, NRA will purchase the AHLEI portfolio of 180 training products and assets, as well as the Lansing, Michigan building owned by AHLEI.
"We are grateful that AHLEI business has found a home with the National Restaurant Association. It's a natural and logical evolution that combines two outstanding teams committed to excellence in the restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality industries," said Dawn Sweeney, president & CEO of the National Restaurant Association. "By adding the AHLEI assets and business lines to our offerings, we will increase our reach and enhance our credibility as the acknowledged leader in industry training and certification while extending our expertise to the hotel and lodging industry."
"AHLA's core mission is to provide employees with the best career opportunities through training and development. Recognizing important partnerships that help us achieve our goals has been and continues to be critical to the industry's success," said Katherine Lugar, president & CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association. "This new partnership gives us the opportunity to focus on what we do best, providing the training and resources necessary to offer pathways to upward mobility for our talent and the future generation of hospitality leaders by maintaining the certifications program. We are very excited about this collaboration and are confident that the NRA will continue to grow and enhance training offerings for our industry."
AHLEI will be run as a separate business under the NRA's Training & Certification division. The acquisition is slated to be completed by the end of this year.
About the National Restaurant Association
Founded in 1919, the National Restaurant Association is the leading business association for the restaurant industry, which comprises more than 1 million restaurant and foodservice outlets and a workforce of 14.4 million employees. The NRA represents the industry in Washington, D.C., and advocates on its behalf. The association operates the industry's largest trade show (NRA Show May 20-23, 2017, in Chicago); leading food safety training and certification program (ServSafe); unique career-building high school program (the NRAEF's ProStart); as well as the Kids LiveWell program promoting healthful kids' menu options. For more information, visit Restaurant.org and find us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
About the American Hotel & Lodging Association
Serving the hospitality industry for more than a century, the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) is the sole national association representing all segments of the 1.9 million-employee U.S. lodging industry, including hotel owners, REITs, chains, franchisees, management companies, independent properties, bed and breakfasts, state hotel associations, and industry suppliers. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., AHLA provides focused advocacy, communications support, and educational resources for an industry of more than 53,000 properties generating $176 billion in annual sales from 5 million guestrooms.
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SOURCE National Restaurant Association
STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- One in five Americans 62 million people live and work in rural areas. State Offices of Rural Health, other state and rural healthcare providers, industry partners, and agencies across the country will observe National Rural Health Day on Thursday, November 17, 2016. The overriding theme of National Rural Health Day, "The Power of Rural," strives to give a voice to the efforts of those who are working to serve the unique healthcare needs that exist in America's rural communities.
As part of National Rural Health Day, the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH) will present a series of free webinars on timely rural health topics, including a special session for rural hospital leaders, physicians and other rural health stakeholders on rural health policy led by Maggie Elehwany, vice president of Government Affairs and Policy for the National Rural Health Association, and Andrew Coats, NOSORH's Legislative Liaison. All of the 30-minute "Websights" are live and feature industry experts with other topics that include farmer health and data-driven solutions to manage population health.
In addition, State Offices of Rural Health and their partners will celebrate National Rural Health Day in their own way around the nation. A few examples include: a statewide photo contest in North Dakota; a healthcare careers interview contest in Montana that allows students to recognize healthcare workers and explore healthcare careers; and a community celebration in Colorado with hospital staff, state legislators and other community members invited.
Finally, on November 17, 2016, NOSORH will launch a major year-long initiative called "Pledge to Partner," which can be found at PowerofRural.org. The initiative will call on rural health organizations, companies that serve rural health providers, and all those for whom rural health matters, to commit to four specific calls to action: Innovate, Collaborate, Educate and Communicate. At a time when rural health funding and policies must be in place to ensure the needs of rural communities are met, the Pledge to Partner aims to mobilize rural health stakeholders to focus on solutions.
NOSORH is asking all those celebrating National Rural Health Day to take to social media and make #PowerofRural a trending topic. www.nosorh.org/nrhd
If you would like more information about National Rural Health Day, contact: Ashley Muninger at: [email protected] or (888)391-7258 ext 104.
To learn more about the State Offices of Rural Health, use this video link.
SOURCE National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health
Related Links
http://www.nosorh.org
NASDAQ: NVCN
TSX: NVC
VANCOUVER, Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ - Neovasc Inc. ("Neovasc" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: NVCN) (TSX: NVC) today announced financial results for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 (all figures in US dollars unless otherwise indicated).
"While the Company has faced litigation headwinds, we remain committed to advancing our core technologies in order to provide new treatments for patients suffering from advanced heart disease," commented Neovasc CEO, Alexei Marko. "Reducer continues to demonstrate its clinical relevance with a seventh consecutive quarter of sales growth and Tiara's clinical results and physician feedback continue to be very encouraging as we advance the product towards commercialization in order to provide a new treatment for mitral valve disease."
CardiAQ Litigation Update
Subsequent to the quarter's end, the findings of the Federal District Court regarding several post-trial motions stemming from a trial jury's verdict in May 2016 were announced. CardiAQ filed suit against Neovasc in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts in 2014. The order ruled in favor of CardiAQ on the issue of inventorship of Neovasc's '964 Patent. At the same time, the judge denied CardiAQ's motion for an injunction that would have shut down the development of Tiara, thus allowing Neovasc to continue development and commercialization of Tiara, while also denying Neovasc's motions for a new trial. The judge upheld the jury's verdict and US$70 million award against Neovasc, and awarded US$21 million in enhanced damages to that award. Interest costs and fees may be due on any award granted by the court.
The Company intends to continue to vigorously defend itself in the litigation with CardiAQ and as such the outcome of these matters, including whether the Company will be required to pay some or all of the US$91 million awards, is not currently determinable. Upon entry of a judgment by the trial court, Neovasc will immediately seek to stay the payment of the US$91 million damages awards, until after an appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit is complete. The Company will appeal the validity of the awards, as well as the ruling on inventorship. The appellate process may take up to a year to complete.
Litigation is inherently uncertain. Therefore, until these matters have been resolved to their ultimate conclusion by the appropriate courts, the Company cannot give any assurances as to the outcome. If the Company is unsuccessful in its defense of these claims, including any appeal of the verdict in the litigation with CardiAQ, or is unable to settle the claims in a manner satisfactory to the Company, it may be faced with significant monetary damages that could exceed its resources, the loss of intellectual property rights and damage to its competitive position. These circumstances indicate the existence of material uncertainty and cast substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern. Additional information regarding the ongoing litigation can be found in Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, which is available on the Company's website at www.neovasc.com and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and EDGAR at www.sec.gov.
Results for the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015
Revenues
Revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2016 were $3,034,000 compared to revenues of $2,473,687 for the same period in 2015, an increase of 23%. The Company is focusing its business away from its traditional revenue streams towards development and commercialization of its own products, the Neovasc Reducer and the Tiara. The Company started its sales of the Reducer in the first quarter of 2015 as it initiated its focused commercialization of the product in Europe.
Sales of the Reducer for the three months ended September 30, 2016 were $262,546, compared to $159,394 for the same period in 2015, representing an increase of 65%. The Reducer has seen steady quarter over quarter revenue growth since its launch in the first quarter of 2015. The success of the commercialization of the Reducer will be dependent on the amount of internal resources allocated to the product, obtaining appropriate reimbursement codes in various territories and correctly managing the referrals process.
Revenues from consulting services for the three months ended September 30, 2016 were $1,227,938, compared to $1,566,729 for the same period in 2015, representing a decrease of 22%. The Company anticipates that its consulting services revenue will decline in the long term as its consulting customers continue to transition to becoming contract manufacturing customers or cease being customers as they move manufacturing in house. To highlight this trend, the Company reports that a contract with a customer representing approximately 5% of year to date revenue is in the process of being wound up and will terminate at the end of 2016. Contract manufacturing revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2016 were $1,543,516, compared to $737,336 for the same period in 2015, representing an increase of 109%. The increase in revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 is primarily due to the clearing of temporary delay in shipping to a single customer during the period.
Cost of Goods Sold
The cost of goods sold for the three months ended September 30, 2016 was $2,201,440, compared to $1,573,068 for the same period in 2015. The overall gross margin for the three months ended September 30, 2016 was 27%, compared to 36% gross margin for the same period in 2015. The decrease in the margin can be attributed to an increase in the cost of sales for contract manufacturing, and a change in product mix toward lower margin contract manufacturing product. The Company has also seen its consulting services revenue margins decline as its ability to charge higher fees for these services has decreased as the transcatheter aortic valve market has matured. In addition, the Company is experiencing higher cost of goods sold as it has implemented a rigorous commercial stage quality system required to meet the expectations of its more advanced customers. These increases are not productive improvements and result in an overall downward trend in margins.
Expenses
Total expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2016 were $8,418,400, compared to $9,575,631 for the same period in 2015, representing a decrease of $1,157,231 or 9%. The decrease in total expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 reflects a $1,086,141 decrease in general and administrative expenses, a $166,061 decrease in product development and clinical trial expenses, and a $94,971 increase in sales and marketing expenses as the Company expands its commercialization activities of the Reducer in Europe.
Selling expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2016 were $208,884, compared to $113,913 for the same period in 2015, representing an increase of $94,971, or 83%. The increase in selling expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 reflects an increase in costs incurred for commercialization activities related to the Reducer. The Company expects to continue to increase its selling expenses in 2016 as it continues its commercialization of the Reducer in select countries in Europe.
General and administrative expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2016 were $3,466,825, compared to $4,552,966 for the same period in 2015, representing a decrease of $1,086,141 or 24%. The decrease in general and administrative expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 can be substantially explained by a $923,541 decrease in litigation expenses and a decrease in other expenses of $162,600.
Product development and clinical trial expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2016 were $4,742,691, compared to $4,908,752 for the same period in 2015, representing a decrease of $166,061, or 3%. The decrease in product development and clinical trial expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2016 was due to a $465,210 decrease in other research and development expenses and a $253,761 decrease in share-based payments, offset by a $498,480 increase in cash-based employee expenses as the Company hired additional staff to advance product development and a $54,430 increase in depreciation.
Other Loss
The other loss for the three months ended September 30, 2016 was $21,461,950, compared to other income of $1,041,842 for the same period in 2015. As at September 30, 2016 the Company recognized a damages provision of $21 million for enhanced damages on certain trade secret claims made by CardiAQ (see "Contractual Obligations and Contingencies" in the Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations). In addition, during the three months ended September 30, 2016 the Company had an increase in foreign exchange and unrealized losses of $1,377,935 and a decrease in interest income of $125,857 compared to the same period in 2015.
Losses
The operating losses and comprehensive losses for the three months ended September 30, 2016 were $29,135,086 and $28,836,990, respectively, or $0.44 basic and diluted loss per share, as compared with losses of $7,633,170 and $12,851,490, or $0.11 basic and diluted loss per share for the same period in 2015. The $21,501,916 increase in the operating loss incurred for the three months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015 consists of a $21,000,000 damages provision related to the judge award against the Company in its litigation with CardiAQ, in a $1,377,935 increase in foreign exchange and unrealized losses, a $125,857 decrease in interest income, a $94,971 increase in selling expenses, a $87,296 increase in tax expenses, partially offset by a $1,086,141 decrease in general and administrative expenses and a $166,061 decrease in product development and clinical trial expenses.
Litigation expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2016 represent a loss of $0.03 basic and diluted loss per share compared to a loss of $0.04 basic and diluted loss per share for the same period in 2015. To date, the Company has incurred significant costs in defending itself in lawsuits filed by CardiAQ. Total litigation expenses since the initial claims were filed in June 2014 are approximately $19.6 million and the Company expects that it may require an additional $5 million to cover additional litigation expenses up to and including appellate court, if applicable (see "Contractual Obligations and Contingencies" in the Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations).
Discussion of Liquidity and Capital Resources
Neovasc finances its operations and capital expenditures with cash generated from operations, lines of credit and equity financings. As at September 30, 2016 the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $25,480,683 compared to cash and cash equivalents of $55,026,171 as at December 31, 2015.
Cash used in operating activities for the three months ended September 30, 2016 was $11,117,649, compared to $6,916,065 for the same period in 2015. Cash expenditures on litigation (litigation expenses less change in accounts payable related to litigation) were $4,309,062 and within accounts payable there was $975,644 of litigation expenses incurred but not paid for in connection with the litigation with CardiAQ that will be paid in the following quarter. Cash expenditures on research and development and clinical trials (expenses less share based payments and depreciation) were $4,321,501 as the Company furthered the development of the Tiara and the Reducer and cash expenditures on general and administrative expenses were $3,250,436. Inventory decreased by $510,269 during the period due to increased sales and corresponding shipments occurring close the end of the period
The Company's working capital, excluding the $91 million damages provision in connection with the litigation with CardiAQ, is $27,470,257 as at September 30, 2016 compared to $54,274,867 as at December 31, 2015.
Unless the Company is successful in an appeal of the verdict, or otherwise is successful in reducing the amount of the $91 million awards, the Company will require significant additional financing in order to pay the damages and to continue to operate its business. There can be no assurance that such financing will be available on favorable terms, or at all. These circumstances indicate the existence of material uncertainty and cast substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern.
Outstanding Share Data
As at November 14, 2016, the Company had 66,866,345 common shares issued and outstanding. Further, the following securities are convertible into common shares of the Company: 7,976,482 stock options with a weighted average price of C$3.95. The fully diluted share capital of the Company at November 14, 2016 is 74,842,827.
All financial information is prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, and is expressed in U.S. dollars.
Neovasc's unaudited condensed interim consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 as well as Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations will be posted on the Company's website at www.neovasc.com and will be filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and EDGAR at www.sec.gov. In addition to the summary contained herein, readers are encouraged to review the unaudited condensed interim consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 as well as the related Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Conference Call and Webcast Information
Neovasc will be hosting a conference call today at 4:30 pm ET to discuss these results. To participate in the conference, dial 888 390 0546 or 416 764 8688. A recording of the call will be available for 72 hours by calling 888 390 0541 or 416 764 8677 and using passcode 981053#. A link to the live and archived audio webcast of the conference call will also be available on the Presentations and Events page of the Investors section of Neovasc's website at www.neovasc.com.
NEOVASC INC. Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (Expressed in U.S. dollars) (Unaudited)
September 30,
December 31,
2016
2015
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 25,480,683
$ 55,026,171
Accounts receivable
2,979,007
1,736,941
Inventory
1,058,741
598,136
Prepaid expenses and other assets
401,969
146,590
Total current assets
29,920,400
57,507,838
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment
3,918,622
3,720,556
Total non-current assets
3,918,622
3,720,556
Total assets
$ 33,839,022
$ 61,228,394
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Liabilities
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
$ 2,450,143
$ 3,232,971
Damages provision
91,000,000
-
Total current liabilities and total liabilities
93,450,143
3,232,971
Equity
Share capital
161,658,013
161,505,037
Contributed surplus
22,302,536
20,569,110
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(4,574,273)
(8,790,011)
Deficit
(238,997,397)
(115,288,713)
Total equity
(59,611,121)
57,995,423
Total liabilities and equity
$ 33,839,022
$ 61,228,394
NEOVASC INC. Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Loss and Comprehensive Loss For the three and nine months ended September 30, (Expressed in U.S. dollars) (Unaudited)
Three months ended
September 30, Nine months ended
September 30,
2016
2015
2016
2015
REVENUE
Reducer $ 262,546 $ 159,394 $ 722,433 $ 334,399 Product sales
-
10,228
-
353,736 Contract manufacturing
1,543,516
737,336
2,391,136
2,273,114 Consulting services
1,227,938
1,566,729
3,638,105
4,744,645
3,034,000
2,473,687
6,751,674
7,705,894
COST OF GOODS SOLD
2,201,440
1,573,068
5,038,792
4,995,994 GROSS PROFIT
832,560
900,619
1,712,882
2,709,900
EXPENSES
Selling expenses
208,884
113,913
554,905
363,213 General and administrative expenses
3,466,825
4,552,966
16,721,354
10,414,394 Product development and clinical
trials expenses
4,742,691
4,908,752
14,530,513
12,620,440
8,418,400
9,575,631
31,806,772
23,398,047
OPERATING LOSS
(7,585,840)
(8,675,012)
(30,093,890)
(20,688,147)
OTHER (EXPENSE)/INCOME
Interest income
25,723
151,580
161,522
470,011 Interest expense
-
-
-
(2,538) Damages provision
(21,000,000)
-
(91,000,000)
- Gain/(loss) on foreign exchange
88,584
890,262
(2,014,669)
873,792 Unrealized loss on damages provision
(576,257)
-
(576,257)
-
(21,461,950)
1,041,842
(93,429,404)
1,341,265 LOSS BEFORE TAX
(29,047,790)
(7,633,170)
(123,523,294)
(19,346,882)
Tax expense
(87,296)
-
(185,390)
-
LOSS FOR THE PERIOD $ (29,135,086) $ (7,633,170) $ (123,708,684) $ (19,346,882)
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/
(EXPENSE) FOR THE PERIOD
Exchange difference on translation
(278,161)
(5,218,320)
3,639,481
(6,476,684) Unrealized loss on damages provision
576,257
-
576,257
-
LOSS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
FOR THE PERIOD $ (28,836,990) $ (12,851,490) $ (119,492,946) $ (25,823,566)
LOSS PER SHARE
Basic and diluted loss per share $ (0.44) $ (0.11) $ (1.85) $ (0.30)
NEOVASC INC. Condensed Interim Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows For the three and nine months ended September 30, (Expressed in U.S. dollars) (Unaudited)
Three months ended
September 30, Nine months ended
September 30,
2016
2015
2016
2015
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Loss for the period $ (29,135,086) $ (7,633,170) $ (123,708,684) $ (19,346,882) Adjustments for:
Depreciation
215,108
133,157
562,088
337,484
Share-based payments
580,221
877,434
1,811,210
3,197,828
Damages provision
21,000,000
-
91,000,000
-
Accounts receivable write down
697
-
5,556
-
Interest income
(25,723)
(151,580)
(161,522)
(502,498)
Interest expense
-
-
-
2,538
(7,364,783)
(6,774,159)
(30,491,352)
(16,311,530)
Net change in non-cash working capital items:
Accounts receivable
(980,522)
(427,432)
(1,154,457)
(234,323)
Inventory
510,269
(241,663)
(409,886)
(262,433)
Prepaid expenses and other assets
20,642
161,823
(234,565)
(22,441)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
(3,326,228)
101,286
(940,349)
776,126
(3,775,839)
(405,986)
(2,739,257)
256,929
Interest paid and received:
Interest received
22,974
264,080
159,294
485,978
Interest paid
-
-
-
(2,538)
22,974
264,080
159,294
483,440
Net cash applied to operating activities
(11,117,648)
(6,916,065)
(33,071,315)
(15,571,161)
INVESTING ACTIVITES
Redemption of guaranteed investment
certificates
-
6,186,656
-
9,322,492
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
(15,174)
(467,512)
(546,709)
(1,734,646) Net cash (applied to)/received from
investing activities
(15,174)
5,719,144
(546,709)
7,587,846
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Repayment of long-term debt
-
-
-
(164,364)
Proceeds from share issue pursuant to
an underwritten public offering, net of
share issue costs
-
-
-
69,879,210
Proceeds from exercise of options
-
8,583
75,192
915,124 Net cash received from financing activities
-
8,583
75,192
70,629,970
NET CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH
EQUIVALENTS
(11,132,822)
(1,188,338)
(33,542,832)
62,646,655
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Beginning of the period
36,277,793
68,669,545
55,026,171
5,193,561 Exchange difference on cash and cash
equivalents
335,712
(4,692,523)
3,997,344
(5,051,532) End of the period $ 25,480,683 $ 62,788,684 $ 25,480,683 $ 62,788,684
Represented by:
Cash
14,390,173
12,939,671
14,390,173
12,939,671 Cashable high interest savings accounts
11,090,510
25,957,813
11,090,510
25,957,813 Cashable guaranteed investment certificates
-
23,891,200
-
23,891,200
$ 25,480,683 $ 62,788,684 $ 25,480,683 $ 62,788,684
About Neovasc
Neovasc is a specialty medical device company that develops, manufactures and markets products for the rapidly growing cardiovascular marketplace. Its products in development include the Tiara, for the transcatheter treatment of mitral valve disease and the Neovasc Reducer for the treatment of refractory angina. The Company also sells a line of advanced biological tissue products that are used as key components in third-party medical products including transcatheter heart valves. For more information, visit: www.neovasc.com.
This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws relating to the Company's plans and expectations concerning its business, financial results, trends, litigation and other matters, including the Company's plans, intentions and expectations relating to the CardiAQ litigation and other litigation, its ability to continue as a going concern, its expectations regarding the commercial launch of Reducer, its intention to focus business away from its traditional revenue streams towards development and commercialization of its own products, its expectation that its consulting services revenue will decline in the long term, its expectations with respect to margins and selling expenses, the need for additional financing and other matters. The words "expect", "anticipate", "may", "will", "intend", "believe", "continue", "focusing", "advancing", "trend", and similar words or expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and assumptions made by the Company in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that the Company believes are appropriate in the circumstances. Many factors and assumptions could cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, the conduct or possible outcomes of any actual or threatened legal proceedings, the Company's ability to stay the payment of the awards in the CardiAQ litigation and its ability to successfully appeal the validity of the awards as well as the ruling on inventorship, which are inherently uncertain and which create material uncertainty that casts substantial doubt on the Company's ability to continue as a going concern; the potential impact on the Company's business of an adverse decision in the appeal on the question of inventorship even if the Company prevails on its appeal of the award; potential changes in circumstances relating to the Company's financing requirements, whether as a result of the CardiAQ litigation, unforeseen circumstances or otherwise; the Company's ability to raise additional funding; the potential benefits of the Neovasc Reducer and Tiara as compared with other products; successful enrollment of patients in studies and trials for the Neovasc Reducer and Tiara; results of the trials and studies for the Neovasc Reducer and Tiara that meet the Company's expectations; the Company's receipt of any required local and institutional regulatory approvals and the timing and costs of obtaining such approvals; European enrollment in our clinical trials, studies and compassionate use cases and the success of applications in Europe; the Company's ability to protect its intellectual property; changes in business strategy or development plans; existing governmental regulations and changes in, or the failure to comply with, governmental regulations and general economic and business conditions, both nationally and in the regions in which the Company operates. These risk factors and others relating to the Company are discussed in greater detail in the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's Annual Information Form, which is included in its Annual Report on Form 40-F and Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (copies of which filings may be obtained at www.sedar.com or www.sec.gov). These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the Company's forward-looking statements. The Company has no intention and undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
SOURCE Neovasc Inc.
Related Links
www.neovasc.com
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Following a major earthquake on New Zealand's South Island, travel insurance comparison site Squaremouth has established the New Zealand Earthquake and Travel Insurance Information Center to explain coverage for travelers affected by the earthquake.
It is too late to purchase a new policy with coverage for the earthquake, but affected travelers who had a policy in place before the earthquake occurred may be eligible for a number of benefits.
"Travelers currently in New Zealand should contact their travel insurance provider's 24-Hour Emergency Assistance as soon as possible for help," said Squaremouth spokesperson Rachael Taft. "Travelers with an upcoming trip to New Zealand may be able to cancel if the earthquake damaged their local accommodations or significantly delays their scheduled flights."
Travelers Currently in New Zealand
Contact your travel insurance provider's 24-Hour Emergency Assistance to understand your coverage. This may include coverage for:
Medical treatment and evacuation to an appropriate medical facility if you are injured
Non-Medical Evacuation to help you get home or to a place of safety (some policies)
Returning home early if you meet your policy's requirements for Trip Interruption typically your accommodations must be rendered uninhabitable by the earthquake to trigger this coverage
Travelers Planning to Visit New Zealand
You may be covered to cancel your trip if the earthquake affects your trip in a way that triggers cancellation coverage on your policy, such as:
Your flight or other ticketed transportation is canceled or delayed for a certain amount of time, typically at least 12-48 hours, because of the earthquake
Your accommodations are damaged by the earthquake and deemed uninhabitable
There is a mandatory evacuation at your destination because of the earthquake some restrictions may apply
Alternatively, travelers with the Cancel For Any Reason upgrade on their policy can cancel even if they do not meet their policy's standard cancellation requirements, as long as they cancel at least 2-3 days before their departure date. However, Cancel For Any Reason only reimburses up to 50-75% of the trip cost.
Additional coverage may be available for travelers depending on their policy. Visit Squaremouth's New Zealand Earthquake and Travel Insurance Information Center for more information about travel insurance coverage for the earthquake on New Zealand's South Island, including fact sheets, frequently asked questions, and travel insurance provider position statements.
In-Depth: Earthquakes and Travel Insurance Fact Sheet: Squaremouth Explains Coverage For Affected Travelers
ABOUT SQUAREMOUTH
Squaremouth compares travel insurance policies from every major travel insurance provider in the United States. Using Squaremouth's comparison engine and third-party customer reviews, travelers can research and compare insurance products side-by-side. More information can be found at www.squaremouth.com.
Available Topic Expert:
Rachael Taft
[email protected]
(727) 264-5174
SOURCE Squaremouth
Related Links
http://www.squaremouth.com
EAST HANOVER, N.J., Nov. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Novartis today announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted Priority Review to the PKC412 (midostaurin) new drug application (NDA) for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in newly-diagnosed adults with an FMS-like tyrosine kinase-3 (FLT3) mutation, as well as for the treatment of advanced systemic mastocytosis (SM). The premarket approval application (PMA) for the PKC412 (midostaurin) FLT3 companion diagnostic, developed in collaboration with Invivoscribe Technologies, Inc. (IVS)* has also been accepted for review by the FDA. Outside the US, the marketing authorization application for PKC412 (midostaurin) in these indications has already been accepted by the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
"FLT3-mutated AML and advanced SM are devastating and rare diseases, with significant unmet needs due to limited existing treatment options," said Bruno Strigini, CEO, Novartis Oncology. "This regulatory designation signifies the importance of midostaurin as a potential therapy for these patients who haven't had the benefit of targeted medicines."